Dandenong Journal Star - 13th March 2017

13 March 2017

A Star News Group Publication

12340580-CB11-17

13 March 2017

6

A Star News Group Publication

Swimmer dives into pools of talent

SPORT

Talent-laden Doves set to deliver

The magic of school New families to Springvale Rise Primary received a warm welcome and plenty of laughs.

The school’s Heights Campus in Wareham Street, Springvale, hosted a Foundation Family Fun Day on Friday 3 March.

Principal Debbie Cottier explained that the day was designed to welcome the families of Preps.

“All family members were invited to come along and enjoy some exciting activities with their children who have commenced school this year,” she said.

“There was a performance by a magician, farm animals, art activities and more.

“We think it’s a lovely way to build relationships with our families, many of whom are new to the school in 2017.”

Joban had front row seats for magician The Amazing Danny. 165490 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

■ $500,000 to connect desperate bosses with unemployed staff…

We want workers

By Casey Neill Industry chiefs are pleading for workers to come forward to fill vacant jobs and $500,000 is going to be spent on bringing them together.

The new project is going to connect them with people in Dandenong and Doveton who are in desperate need of work.

“We’ve got employers yelling for people,” said SEBN manager Sandra George at the launch of the Dandenong-Doveton Community Revitalisation project at Hilton Manufacturing in Dandenong South on Monday 6 March.

“It just doesn’t make sense,” she said of the area’s high unemployment.

She wants to bring community capability up to take advantage of the jobs on offer, and link employers with jobseekers.

That’s exactly what the Dandenong-Doveton Community Revitalisation aims to achieve.

Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said the cash would address priorities that the industry leaders and community groups identified through the City of Greater Dandenong Employment Taskforce, which has since grown to include the City of Casey.

She said the main task was expanding the One Percent Project, which SEBN trialled over the past year to encourage employers to recruit at least 1 per cent of their workforce from economically disadvantaged communities.

Ms Williams said that job creation could solve most community problems.

“It’s at the heart of absolutely everything,” she said.

She said there were families in Dandenong and Doveton where two or three generations had never been employed, and the cycle needed to be broken.

The funding will enable the One Percent Project to involve more businesses and better connect the region’s employment programs with local job opportunities.

The Dandenong-Doveton Community Revitalisation project overall will strengthen links between employers, school transition programs and TAFE institutes to create more opportunities for early

school leavers to get into pre-apprenticeship programs.

“It’s not about activity, it’s about outcomes,” Ms Williams said. “I want to see Dandenong and Doveton transform over time.”

Ms Williams said she was impressed with the goodwill and dedication of local businesses.

Hilton Manufacturing managing director Todd Hartley said his parents Tom and Margo grew up in Doveton and started the business in a shed in Dandenong.

“We’ll do all we can to help with this project and to engage more of the less fortunate people into our industry. There is just so much opportunity if we get this project right.”

Tax Returns TAKE Under 21 THE S T R OUT OE S S Half Price F TAX Rental Investors FREE PROPERTY INVESTMENT ANALYSER SOFTWARE

DANDENONG 9794 0010 LYNDALE PHARMACY 68 Menzies Ave, Dandenong North. Ph 9792 1789

HOME & RESIDENTIAL MEDICATION SUPPORT

1224483-HM18-16

1222553-PB15-16

Road island’s no refuge A temporary crossing is helping Noble Park pedestrians to stay safe during work to remove three level crossings.

But resident Gaye Guest said the refuge on Corrigan Road near Craven Street was an accident waiting to happen.

A Level Crossing Removal Authority (LXRA) spokesperson said the temporary pedestrian crossing and refuge was near the rail line.

LXRA is removing the level crossings at Corrigan, Chandler and Heatherton roads.

“This replaces a nearby pedestrian crossing that is being closed for safety reasons during works to remove the three dangerous and congested level crossings at Noble Park,” the

spokesperson said.

“A permit from City of Greater Dandenong was obtained for the temporary crossing and refuge, which comply fully with all council regulations.”

But Ms Guest said that before the refuge was installed this was “the only unimpeded route over the three level crossings while these ghastly works are being carried out”.

“It is an accident waiting to happen because I have seen literature from one of the council’s acting heads of department saying cars parked must leave a three-metre clearance so as traffic is not impeded,” she said.

“This crossing is in an inappropriate position

and will only cause more headaches for road users and even - and I hope I am wrong - an accident.”

She questioned why LXRA couldn’t have instead installed a zebra crossing.

Ms Guest has been outspoken against the State Government’s decision to elevate the train line to remove Noble Park’s level crossings.

“Given the State Government’s fall in popularity and the inappropriate works being undertaken along the 2.7 kilometre stretch of rail in Noble Park - where other suburbs are being offered a much better option to having their rail crossings removed - I believe this pedestrian refuge needs to be moved ASAP,” she said.

In Brief Man on the run may be armed Police have warned that a man who is still on the run after a Dandenong North shooting last week may be armed.

They appealed for help after at least one shot was fired at officers as they tried to arrest a man on Tuesday 7 March.

A spokeswoman said on Thursday 9 March that he had not yet been apprehended.

Police arrested a 31-year-old man, a 44-yearold man and a woman over the shooting incident.

They charged a 30-year-old Clayton South woman with two counts of possessing a drug of dependence, one count of motor vehicle theft and one count of dealing proceeds of crime.

Police charged a 43-year-old Dandenong North man with breaching his bail conditions and a 31-year-old man of no fixed address with being a prohibited person possessing a firearm, possessing ammunition without a licence, three counts of possessing a drug of dependence, possessing a prohibited weapon and possessing a controlled weapon.

All three were due to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 8 March.

The investigation is ongoing.

The shooting occurred after officers tried to intercept a vehicle on Stud Road in Dandenong North about 9am.

They alleged that the driver did not stop, that they approached an address that the car had been seen at and two men ran from the property.

Police followed on foot towards a block of units, when a firearm was allegedly discharged in their direction. No one was injured.

Officers cordoned off the area and a number of other police units, including the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) and the Dog Squad, attended.

Call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 with any information.

Looking for Eboni

Noble Park project manager Andrew Harrap shows Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams a steel formwork frame that will form part of the mould for another pier to be made on-site from poured concrete.

Reaching for the sky as rail piers cement their place The first column for Noble Park’s elevated rail is in place.

Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams visited a work site near Mons Parade to check on the progress on Monday 6 March.

The project dubbed sky rail will remove nine level crossings on the Dandenong line - including those at Heatherton, Chandler and Corrigan roads - and create 22.5 hectares of new open space and parkland.

Ms Williams said boom gates were down for more than half of the morning peak at these crossings, including 73 minutes at Heatherton Road and 72 minutes at Corrigan Road.

Workers raised the first Noble Park column late last month.

It will support the new elevated Noble Park Railway Station, which will feature improved lighting and comfort and better access to Douglas Street shops.

Most of the area’s 90 columns - known as piers - will be made on-site, with concrete poured into moulds and left to set.

“We are ramping up works to get rid of these level crossings once and for all to improve connectivity in the area and revitalise Noble Park,” Ms Williams said.

“Two thousand jobs are being created on this project - now after weeks of preparation we are starting to see the results above ground.”

Meanwhile, work to remove the South Gippsland Highway level crossing in Dandenong has started.

Ms Williams announced on Tuesday 21 February that geotechnical investigations for the project were underway and would continue until early March.

“The South Gippsland Highway level crossing causes disruption and delay, and puts lives at risk,” she said.

The investigations involve drilling bore holes between 15 and 40 metres deep to gain a greater understanding of the ground conditions.

“These investigations will give us a better understanding of the ground conditions in the area, and will inform the design and engineering of the level crossing removal,” Ms Williams said.

Scanning and digging activities will also be carried out to identify the depth and position of electrical cables, water pipes and other services.

A specialist team will look for areas of environmental or cultural significance.

These Noble Park and Dandenong projects are part of the $1.6 billion Caulfield to Dandenong Level Crossing Removal Project, which will remove nine of Victoria’s worst level crossings.

The crossing at Abbotts Road in Dandenong South will be replaced with a rail bridge by 2019.

Truck torched near factories Vandals torched a truck parked in a Dandenong South industrial estate.

CFA crews responded to the fire in Hedderwick Road about 5.05am on Sunday 5 March.

The blaze started in the Isuzu truck’s cabin and spread to the rear carriage, destroying the vehicle.

The truck was empty at the time, and parked at the back of a row of factories.

CAPITAL BLINDS Your window covering specialist

John Stonemart Memorials 9548 4199

WE SPECIALISE IN

www.johnstonemartmemorials.com.au • Monuments • Renovaions • Accessories • Inscripions • Installaions

Police are appealing for public help to find a missing 16-year-old girl.

Eboni Rooks was last seen on Monday 20 February in the Frankston area, and is known to frequent Eboni Rooks.

Dandenong.

Police have concerns for her welfare due to her age and the length of time she has been missing.

Eboni is described as having a medium build, fair complexion and dark brown hair.

Call Frankston police station on 9784 5555 with any information about her whereabouts.

Free e measur te o u Q &

Store Locations Thomastown Springvale Dandenong Footscray Springvale Super Store Box Hill Nunawading

9359 0898 9540 8807 9706 8108 9689 8882 9548 4199 9890 1118 9890 1118

✔ Curtains ✔ Swags ✔ Pelmets ✔ Verticals ✔ Timber ✔ Hollands ✔ Sun Screens ✔ Romans ✔ Plantation Shutters

And much more

Warning do not sign any contract until you see us

1124968-CA12-14

12333000-ACM49-16

We will beat any genuine quote 10% - 6 0% OFF

Conditions Apply

CALL NOW ON

1300 136 907 (LOCAL CALL COST ONLY ) Factory 17-50A Princes Highway, Doveton 3 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

Looking Back

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

100 years ago

50 years ago

15 March 1917 Dandenong Market accommodation At a meeting of the Dandenong Shire Council on Thursday last, a letter was received from the Gippsland and Northern Selling Coy asking for permission to sell in the Dandenong Market on Tuesdays commencing on the 30th, which once more brought up the question of the inadequate accommodation at the local market yards.

Cr Groves said it was not a fair proposition for people to be expected to bring valuable cows to the market in view of the state the yards were in.

He said he wanted to see the application granted, but the Market committee should see that sufficient accommodation was provided.

14 March 1967 Parents ‘must give finance’ $2000 yearly is needed Parents of Southvale State School children were told last week they were expected to find finance for most necessities at the school, from telephone calls to toilet paper.

“This amounts to approximately $2000 a year,” said the parents committee chairman, Mr P A Thomas.

“There is no free education in Victoria,” Mr Thomas added.

Thirty seven parents attended the meeting as well as the head teacher, Mr Brown.

Referring to finance, Mr Thomas said the envelope system used last year was not successful.

Some parents had enclosed a few cents, some did not even return the envelopes.

It was decided to recommend that

each family contribute $3 a term to school funds, if necessary on a weekly or monthly basis.

20 years ago 17 March 1997 Record turn-out for poll The City of Greater Dandenong has its first council.

Returning Officer Mr Doug Lawrence said more than 75 per cent of the 78,000 residents enrolled cast their vote.

24 March 1997 Mayor on $65,000 Greater Dandenong’s first mayor will be paid $65,000 for his 12-month term plus the use of a car.

His councillor colleagues will be paid $12,000.

5 years ago 19 March 2012 No square deal for Saigon Greater Dandenong’s desire for a harmonious name for a Springvale public space seems headed for a showdown with the Vietnamese community. Last Tuesday, the council voted down the name Saigon Square for the proposed Buckingham Avenue site, in favour of “more inclusive” title Multicultural Place.

The decision upset resident Trung Doan, a convener of “shocked” Saigon Square supporters who described Multicultural Place as a “very bland” name.

Greater Dandenong Mayor Youhorn Chea opposed the Saigon name because the name “can’t exclude any community”.

Cr Chea said it would be equally offensive to some Vietnamese people if the square was named Ho Chi Minh, the official name of Vietnam’s capital since the Vietnam War.

Polevault ends in slime disgrace The late Jack Johnson was the author of When The Clock Strikes, a fascinating account of growing up in Dandenong, his years tending to the city’s pipes and drains as a plumber and bringing up a family with wife Frances in their beloved home in Macpherson Street.

In the area of the last remaining land belonging to The Grange just clear of the thick ti-tree along the creek side, and into the semi cleared patches, there were a number of excavated channels.

They had seen so many years of flooding and run off from the flatlands vegetation that the depth of water had been reduced by half by a build-up of thick black silt, which when we got stuck in it was almost like quicksand.

On one of our early explorations, coming back from the Police Paddocks along the creek to Kidds Road, we came off the high ground to discover there was still a small lake of water along the deep drain of Kidds Road, almost to the driveway of

JACK LOOKS

BACK JACK JOHNSON

The Grange.

Because we never went through the fence of the homestead we decided we would have to vault over these channels to get to the creek banks.

Three of us vaulted over the narrowest section and expected Nipper to follow, but he stood on the other side sneering at us, telling us we were a bunch of babies and that he could jump over that section backwards without a pole.

He walked back to where he had dropped his pole, which was a nice straight dry piece of ti-tree

with the bark peeled off.

He went back as far as he could in the cleared area.

With all eyes on him he turned and with threequarters of the pole extended out in front he charged towards the slime-covered channel.

His spindly legs were moving at the speed of the Road Runner’s and when he got almost to the bank of the channel, he lunged the pole as far as he could towards the centre of the channel.

As it speared down through the water into the mud, he thrust himself off the bank and into a high overhead arc.

But instead of the arc landing him triumphantly on the other bank, it was never completed.

The pole reached the true vertical and snapped clean off at water level, causing this small polevaulter to fall in a horizontal position from a great height with a loud ‘plonk’ to leave his imprint in the black slime-covered soup.

William Matthews Funerals

& Curtains • Vertical Blinds • Awnings • Cedar Blinds • Swags & Tails • Slimline Micro • Roller Shutters • Holland Blinds

Factory Direct

Austrian • Canopies • Plantation Shutters

6–12 Months Interest FREE

PH 9794 8899 MOB 0418 555 672 149 Princes Highway (Lonsdale Street), Dandenong

G4195094BV-dp5Jun©FCNVIC

• Roman & OFF

1124954-FA12-14

50%

Before you decide, call Bill, Narelle, Beau or Melanie Matthews

9739 6868 45 Cave Hill Rd, Lilydale

(between Foster and Webster Streets) www.capriblinds.com.au sales@capriblinds.com.au

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED 24 HOUR SERVICE ALL AREAS Pre Paid Funerals N.F.D.A. Member

Large Chapel with after service facilities for refreshments

www.williammatthewsfunerals.com.au

1124824-MB12-14

The voice of the community since 1865 Phone: 5945 0666 Fax: 5945 0777 starnewsgroup@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starcommunity.com.au Star News Group Head Office postal address PO Box 9, Pakenham, Victoria 3810 Editorial: journal@starnewsgroup.com.au News Editor: Narelle Coulter – 5945 0642 Advertising: advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Advertising Sales Manager: Tania Butler – 5945 0608 Real Estate: realestate@starnewsgroup.com.au Group Real Estate Manager Paul Bewicke 5945 0653 Classified Advertising: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au Phone: 1300 666 808 Fax: 5945 0667 Delivered FREE throughout the City of Greater Dandenong.

Combined Distribution area of the Dandenong Journal and Journal News: Dandenong, Dandenong North, Doveton, Endeavour Hills, Hallam, Keys Estate, Keysborough, Noble Park, Springvale & Springvale South.

Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108.

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution PROUDLY numbers, areas and coverage are estimates AUSTRALIAN OWNED & only. For our terms and conditions please visit INDEPENDENT www.starcommunity.com.au

1163142-LB46-14

THE CARPET CENTRE SUPERSTORE • Find out why we’re number one in referrals and repeat business

CASH AND CARRY $$$SAVE SAVE SAVE

FACTORY PRICES DIRECT TO YOU WE STOCK ALL MAJOR BRAND AND LEADING MANUFACTURERS

ING BR OUR Y IN USE HO NS PLA

CALL FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION MEASURE AND QUOTE

VISIT OUR MEGASTORE AT: 40 GREENS RD, DANDENONG STH Ph:9792 5266 Fax: 9792 5233

• CARPETS • VINYLS • RUGS • TIMBER • LAMINATES 4 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

1000’s of Metres in Stock • We also carry a huge range of remnants and factory seconds

1226536-CB18-16

Capri Blinds

Up to

As we all rushed around in a panic, getting our poles ready to rescue him from downing and sinking in the quicksand, a head surfaced covered in black-green slime.

He stood up. The water only came to his armpits.

With the assistance of one of our vaulting poles, we slowly dragged him through the thick black water to the bank.

He was spitting muck and slime and looked more like a young crocodile coming up from a mud hole than a small boy.

Beneath a paperbark he peeled off some bark and started to wipe himself, but let out a yell and started to curse because he had wiped hundreds of tiny needle-tipped leaves into his head and body.

We crawled through ti-tree, thorns and prickles searching for a path to the creek.

We discovered what turned out to be a perfect swimming hole.

Honour for animal rights Jan Wilson was among 25 new inductees to the Victorian Honour Roll of Women.

The posthumous honour announced on Monday 6 March recognised the late Dandenong North MP and Dandenong councillor for her advocacy to improve animal welfare practices across the state.

Mrs Wilson joined more than 600 women named on the Honour Roll since it started in 2001.

Each year it celebrates exceptional women in Victoria who have made significant and lasting contributions to their community, the nation or the world.

“Too often, women’s achievements and contributions are not recognised, despite leaving a lasting impact on their communities,” Minister for Women Fiona Richardson said.

“Mrs Wilson left behind a meaningful legacy that demonstrates the change that women can lead across government and the community.”

Mrs Wilson migrated to Australia from Scot-

Jan Wilson with her husband Eric. land in the early 1960s and in 1977 became the second woman to be elected to the City of Dandenong.

She represented the North Ward until 1986, and in 1985 was elected the first member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the new seat of Dandenong North.

Her time in State Parliament included the racing, local government, aged care and consumer

affairs portfolios.

Following her retirement from politics in 1999, Mrs Wilson was appointed to the board of Greyhound Racing Victoria (GRV) and shortly afterwards became chairwoman.

GRV started reforming its animal welfare practices during her time as chairwoman and established the Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) to rehome greyhounds that were unable to race.

Her 10 years of leadership also resulted in unprecedented growth in the industry.

In 2009, Mrs Wilson was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for services to the racing industry and to animal welfare.

She died on 5 March 2010.

“Throughout her life Mrs Wilson made a remarkable contribution to our community,” Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said.

“Her extensive work in both local and State Government ensured that there was a voice for all Victorians - great and small.”

In Brief Wanted over death threats Police are appealing for public help to find a woman who is wanted over death threats and known to frequent Dandenong.

Sarah Morgan, 26, is wanted on a warrant in relation Sarah Morgan. to making threats to kill.

She is described as 160 centimetres tall with a medium build, olive complexion, brown hair and brown eyes.

Punched, robbed on street A Cranbourne North man was punched to the face and robbed on a Dandenong street.

The 29-year-old was leaving a Hopetoun Street address about 9.30pm on Monday 6 March when a man approached, demanded the victim’s keys and wallet and punched him in the face. The attacker, described as Caucasian, fled with house keys, car keys and bank cards leaving the victim with an injured lip.

Pram torched as family slept

Cash-strapped robot students need a lift to Denmark Dandenong North students need help to show off their Lego robot designs in Denmark.

Nine children from Wooranna Park Primary School competed in the Australian First Lego League Championships in December.

Principal Ray Trotter said the team - known as Roborannas - was in front after round two of the three-round competition.

“We got pipped at the last round,” he said.

Judges invited the team to compete in the European Championships in Aarhus, Denmark, in May against more than 1000 students from 40 countries.

The school has set up an online donation page in the hope of raising more than $21,000 to fund registration, airfares, travel insurance and accommodation.

Visit www.schoolsplus.org.au/mission-possible-send-roborannas-denmark to support the Roborannas.

Vandals torched a pram on a Noble Park home’s porch while five children and their mother slept inside. Police are appealing for witnesses to the fire, which occurred about 11.30pm on Thursday 2 March, in Corrigan Road.

CFA crews extinguished the fire before it could spread. Police recovered some burnt paper next to the pram but had not determined how the fire was started. Information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Walking wounded

Roborannas team members Victor, Alfarabi, Hafiz and Fiona with their Lego robot creation. 165562 Picturs: STEWART CHAMBERS

Thieves punched a security guard and stole his car outside Hemmings Park in Dandenong.

He was sitting in the vehicle about 1.45am on Friday 3 March and noted 15 youths in the Princes Highway park.

Five of them approached the victim and punched him in the face through his open window. He got out of the car and the thieves took his keys and drove away.

The 30-year-old Oakleigh East man suffered bruising to his face in the attack.

Are your

TEETH MISSING?

Pop-up Drive thru

Recycling Day

CALL US for a FREE DENTURE CHECK KEYSBOROUGH DENTURE CLINIC

1202241-PB42-15

• Lightweight All Health Funds • Flexible, Invisible “claim here and pay the • Thin and Strong gap only” • Comfortable

PHONE 9798 4400

337 Cheltenham Road Keysborough 3173 12342376-FA11-17

www.dentureclinics.net

A FREE drop-off for your unwanted electronic and household goods

MARCH MARCH

18

Saturday 18 March, 8am – 2pm Springvale Customer Service car park 397–405 Springvale Rd

TVs and computers

Mattresses

Electrical appliances Printers, rice cookers, anything with a cord

Bicycles

Whitegoods Fridges, washing machines, dryers, microwaves

Homewares Toys, cookware, sporting items, baby equipment

Furniture Chairs, tables, couches, desks

Clothes and linen Clothing, shoes, fashion accessories, towels, sheets

12342373-10-17

Consider a different type of partial Denture

Also coming to Dandenong on 4 March

More information greaterdandenong.com/wasteandrecycling 8571 1000 5 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT 17th of March 2017 RAMON DEMILLO

18th of March 2017 RICK CHARLES & THE SPEEDSTER $10 COVER CHARGE

Morning Melodies every first Wednesday of the month Memberships are now available Become a member and reap the benefits

Vision impaired swimmer Admasu Akalewold with instructor Rodney Benstead during the YMCA Swimathon at Noble Park Aquatic Centre.

denong Oasis and started swimming lessons.

When those lessons ended, Admasu joined a weekly aqua group for vision disabled swimmers with Oasis instructor Rodney Benstead and gained confidence in the water.

Oasis member engagement co-ordinator Sarah Woodcock said Admasu was an inspiration to all involved.

“At the YMCA we believe people with a disability deserve to learn to swim and be safe in and around water and Admasu is a great example of what can be achieved,” she said.

“He has overcome a huge barrier to take part and help others and that is an awesome achievement.”

12342339-11-17

23 Osborne Avenue, Springvale 9548 4155

Illness claimed Admasu Akalewold’s sight when he was just eight years old.

But the Kenyan refugee doesn’t let his disability hold him back - he even defies the odds to help others.

On Sunday 5 March the Dandenong resident participated in the YMCA Swimathon at Noble Park Aquatic Centre.

The annual event raised funds to help others living with a disability to become more active, healthier and happier through swimming.

Admasu was not able to swim when he arrived in Australia with his family in 2010.

He was hesitant to get in the water due to his disability, but that changed when he joined Dan-

Injured? We can help.

When you've been injured on the road, you need the right advice.

Call us on (03) 9321 9886 to book your free appointment.

ABSCO GARDEN SHEDS Delivered & Erected FREE* DELIVERED, ERECTED WITH CONCRETE $1,150

DELIVERED, ERECTED WITH CONCRETE $1,220

DELIVERED, ERECTED WITH CONCRETE $1,269

DELIVERED, ERECTED WITH CONCRETE $980

ABSCO PREMIER GARDEN SHED

ABSCO ECO GARDEN SHED

ABSCO ECO GARDEN SHED

ABSCO GARDEN SHED

Model: 30301GK Zincalume® 3.00mW x 3.00mD x 2.06mH. •฀Zincalume®฀•฀Single฀door •฀Gable฀roof

Model: 30232GECO 3.00mW x 2.26mD x 2.00mH •฀Green,฀Grey฀or฀Merino •฀Double฀doors฀•฀Gable฀roof

Model: 30302GECO 3.00mW x 3.00mD x 2.06mH •฀Green,฀Grey฀or฀Merino •฀Double฀doors฀•฀Gable฀roof

Model: 23151GECO 2.30mW x 1.52mD x 1.95mH •฀Green,฀Grey฀or฀Merino •฀Single฀door฀•฀Gable฀roof฀•฀6m2

$

699 245

SAVE

$

$ Delivered & Erected FREE

DELIVERED, ERECTED WITH CONCRETE $1,239

789 420

SAVE

$

$ Delivered & Erected FREE

DELIVERED, ERECTED WITH CONCRETE $1,949

ABSCO ECO GARDEN SHED

ABSCO HIGHLANDER SHED

Model: 371522GECO 3.70mW x 1.52mD x 1.95mH •฀Green,฀Grey฀or฀Merino •฀Double฀doors฀•฀Gable฀roof

Model:฀37232HK฀Colorbond® 3.70mW x 2.26mD x 2.30mH •฀Double฀doors฀•฀Gable฀roof

$

$

759 340

SAVE

$

Delivered & Erected FREE

1499 235 SAVE

769 380

SAVE

$

$

Delivered & Erected FREE

749 290 $

Model:฀30292rk 3.00mW x 2.92mD •฀Green,฀Grey,฀Cream •฀Double฀Doors฀in฀gable

$ Delivered & Erected FREE

Factory 3 10-12 South Link Sth Gippsland Hwy, Dandenong Visit: www.shedsnmore.com.au or our Indoor Showrooms 6 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

Delivered & Erected FREE

REGENT SHED

Model: 301522ECO 3.0mW x 1.52mD •฀Green,฀Grey฀or฀Merino •฀Double฀Doors฀•฀Gable฀Roof฀

SAVE

$

DELIVERED, ERECTED WITH CONCRETE $1,489

$

$

549 245

SAVE

Delivered & Erected FREE

DELIVERED & ERECTED WITH CONCRETE $1,209

Available until 15th March, 2017

1153244-JV36-14

Our priority is you

999 440

SAVE

$

Delivered & Erected FREE

PH: 9799 7459 *Absco Garden Sheds Only

12335679-RC07-17

12342186-HM11-17

Pools of talent

Stacey’s sights set on soaring

By Casey Neill Stacey Edwards was due to become the Moomba Birdman Rally’s first competitor with Down syndrome when she took her Wallara Weapon on a flight into the Yarra River from a four-metre platform on Sunday 12 March.

Illness stopped Stacey from attending the craft’s unveiling at Dandenong-based disability support service Wallara on Friday 3 March.

“She said she wanted to show that people with a disability could do brave things,” Wallara staff member Jay Pinkster said.

He said the brave Pakenham woman would have had a cheer squad on the river banks when she took the big leap.

“You can see the joy and anticipation,” he said.

Wallara support coach Lindsay Hamer helped a team of about 15 to design and build the Wallara Weapon from plastic pipe and laminated images of Wallara services and activities.

He said that participating had really helped to build confidence in the service users.

Anthony Pyke piloted Wallara’s craft last year,

throwing himself into the Yarra with a spectacular splash.

He was the first Wallara service user to make the jump, and Wallara was the first disability group to enter the rally.

“After the jump he was a completely different person,” Mr Hamer said.

CMV staff foundation presented a cheque for $1750 to help with entry costs and craft construction.

The group’s secretary Mary Haigh said that employees at CMV, a truck dealership network, could donate part of their wage to the foundation and the company would match it.

“The CMV staff foundation is very proud to continue its association with Wallara and we’re really looking forward to seeing the Wallara Weapon in action at Moomba, as we know that everyone involved will do a great job and hopefully have a great time,” she said.

Wallara, a not-for-profit, is using the rally as an opportunity to raise funds.

Donate via www.wallara.com.au.

Wallara Weapon pilot Stacey Edwards.

Wallara service users Varant Katchadorian, Tharkana Suraweera, Bol Jock and Donald Martin with the Wallara Weapon.

Skyrail parks could be on the right side of the tracks

A glimpse at what the under-rail open space could look like.

Residents have been invited to shape the underrail open space that removing Noble Park’s level crossings will create.

The Level Crossing Removal Authority (LXRA) wants to hear from locals about shared paths, outdoor fitness equipment and lighting.

A Community Open Space Panel has put forward recommendations about practical ways to make the park appealing for commuters and exercisers, including bike repair stands and fitness stations. Those ideas will now be tested with the community as part of the survey, which will run through March.

Project director Brett Summers said community consultation on the open space would run until mid-year.

“This is about encouraging people to get outdoors and add activities into their everyday life,” he said.

“It’s important that we are taking into account a range of considerations from the people who will actually be using this parkland.”

The wider level crossing removal project will build 12 kilometres of shared paths for commuters, cyclists and pedestrians, creating a continuous route from Monash University to the EastLink trail, beyond Yarraman Station.

Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne director and chief executive Professor Tim Entwisle led the expert panel that provided the recommendations for the consultation process.

“This is a rare and genuinely exciting opportu-

nity to shape a new parkland,” Professor Entwisle said.

The panel also surveyed residents about what vegetation they’d like to see in the new spaces.

The results showed a strong preference for native species and trees that attracted birdlife.

“We also received strong support for a concept for distinctive planting designs for different suburbs to reflect the local character of the areas,” Professor Entwisle said.

The Heatherton, Corrigan and Chandler roads level crossings in Noble Park are being removed through the Caulfield to Dandenong Project which is expected to be completed by late 2018.

Visit your.levelcrossings.vic.gov.au to get involved.

12340981-LD11-17

8 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

Melodies and memories Singing and laughter spill from Lexington Gardens Retirement Village on the first Tuesday of each month.

The Springvale centre welcomed performer Frank Powell to its morning melodies on Tuesday 7 March.

They sang and danced as he presented classic tunes with plenty of humour and cheek.

Social committee convenor Val Price has been running the event since 2009.

“We have dinner dances once a month. I used to see people getting up and going home early,” she said.

“I suggested to the committee that we try morning melodies.

“We get anything from 60 to 95 people.

“We have a two-course lunch and we’ve got good singers, entertainers and it gives people something to do here rather than go out.

“I just love to make people happy.

“I love to see the older ones singing the old songs and enjoying it.

“One table of elderly ladies bring a bottle of champagne!”

About 300 people call Lexington Gardens home - some who’ve lived there for 17 years - and that number is set to grow next year.

Community engagement manager Claire Emmanuel said work on 40 new units would start in May. “We’re starting to take expressions of interest,” she said.

“People will step into their apartments next year.

“We’ve got excellent amenities within this village that really provide a brilliant lifestyle and promote health and wellbeing for the residents.

“The things that we pride ourselves on is that there’s an activity that suits everybody.

“We are looking at expanding our activities to suit a younger cohort of people.

“These days people are retiring at a younger age, or working part-time.”

Ms Emmanuel said facilities included a gym, 25-metre swimming pool, a men’s shed, tennis court, croquet and bowls greens, snooker tables, an art and craft space, and a barbecue area.

Question time for residents Public question time submitters will get to read their query in person at Greater Dandenong Council meetings.

At their Monday 27 February meeting, councillors unanimously agreed to a threemonth trial of the proposal from Cr Matthew Kirwan from the 27 March meeting.

“This motion came from a desire expressed regularly by residents to me since I was first elected for them to be able to speak for themselves at what is, after all, called public question time,” he said.

“They have told me that it would also enable them to personally clarify answers if needed but more broadly... enable them to more meaningfully engage as citizens and residents.

“I am passionate about civic participation and this is an important breakthrough for this council.”

Cr Kirwan said the concept was not unusual in local government.

“This is not cutting edge or radical,” he said.

“A number of diverse councils throughout Victoria already allow people physically present at council meetings to ask public questions in person and have done so for many years.

“From my experience of going to two other councils that allow members of the public to ask questions verbally, they have better attendance by the public as they can participate in a limited, controlled way.”

Cr Kirwan’s notice of motion also proposed moving public question time from the second-last item on the agenda to the first portion.

He said this was an ideal time for the trial because the council was due to revise its Meeting Procedure Local Law. Questions will still need to be submitted prior to the meeting and public question time will be limited to 20 minutes.

Frank Powell performs at morning melodies. 165747 “We have a bar for people who like to enjoy happy hour and a large auditorium where we have movie viewing and DVDs and presentations,” she said.

“The bar is a highly social place.

“It’s all run by the residents.

“People are never lonely here.”

She said families were welcome to make use of the facilities.

“Grandchildren come to visit their grandparents to go for a swim or play some tennis,” she said.

There’s a library, computer centre, kitchen with a chef, GP clinic, op shop and hair salon.

A convenience store with pantry basics will soon become an IGA with fresh fruit, vegetables and meat, and the community centre will be upgraded in the next two months.

“We’re going to have a cafe that will provide breakfasts and lunch and dinner,” Ms Emmanuel said.

Call Claire on 0408 414 159 or email claire. emmanuel@lendlease.com for more information.

Yanti Gauci enjoys the entertainment. 165747

1231106-ACM25-16

NEW LOCATION @ 59A Heatherton Rd, Endeavour Hills, 3802

CLUB NOBLE FACILITIES AVAILABLE • BISTRO • SPORTS BAR • TAB

Your smile is our top priority.

Mon - Fri 9am - 5am Sat 9am - 3am Sunday 10am - 11.30pm

MEMBE RSHIP ONLY

03 8772 2053

General Family Dentistry

$10

EASY AND AFFORDABLE PAYMENT PLANS THROUGH

*conditions

ww

apply

w. s

milesfirst.co

a m.

Implants Whitening Crowns & Bridges Cosmetic Procedures

u

ns apply

*conditio

CCAV “BEST FAMILY CLUB”

Braces

CLUB NOBLE

Early Treatment (no braces)

Moodemere St, Noble Park Ph: 9546 0653 www.clubnoble.com.au

* Conditions apply

1219034-EPJ10-16

10 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

Root Canal Treatment

Wisdom Teeth

Move to clear meter jam

By Casey Neill A compromise is on the cards for Springvale’s divisive parking meters.

Councillor Sean O’Reilly will move to make 30-minute spaces free of charge and reduce fees for other spaces from $1.20 per hour to 50 cents at the Tuesday 14 March Greater Dandenong Council meeting.

But Springvale Asian Business Association (SABA) is encouraging parking meter opponents to flood the meeting and continue to push for meters to be scrapped.

Traders said the meters were driving business out of Springvale and into shopping precincts with free parking.

“If you want to see the Springvale parking meters removed, we need you to come to show your

support!” a poster said.

A council officers’ report to the 27 February meeting recommended keeping the meters and cited figures that showed increased economic output and improved parking space occupation and turnover.

But Cr Youhorn Chea successfully moved, seven votes to four, to unconditionally abolish the pay and display parking fee system following complaints from residents and businesses since they were installed in November 2015.

Following that, Cr O’Reilly filed a motion to rescind the decision, so councillors will again debate the issue on 14 March and he will put forward his compromise.

“It’s quite borderline from my discussions,” Cr O’Reilly said about support for his motion.

“The new proposal is a fairly dramatic change

to how parking operates in Springvale.

“It includes much more increased engagement between the council and traders as far as how the money will be spent.

“This is an opportunity for both sides of the argument to not get everything they want, but to get most of what they want so both sides can live with it.

“If parking meters came out you could lose a lot of people who’ve said they just don’t want the chaos and congestion to come back.”

Cr O’Reilly said Springvale was an extremely price-sensitive area.

“It’s one of the few places in Melbourne you can still get a coffee for $2.50, you can get a main meal for $8, and a haircut for $9,” he said.

“But can anyone complain about 50 cents per hour?”

Jobseekers hitch up as goodwill caravan heads outback

By Casey Neill Dandenong jobseekers have made life easier for visitors to Wugullar Aboriginal School.

Linfox will transport a refurbished caravan to the school in Katherine, Northern Territory.

Envision Employment Services officially handed over the Caravan of Goodwill to students from the school at its Heart Street, Dandenong, office on Friday 17 February.

Unemployed jobseekers taking part in the Work for the Dole program did all the hard work, with guidance from a supervisor.

The project was designed to upskill the participants to make them more ready for future employment.

The Caravan of Goodwill will provide accommodation for allied health professionals, teachers and other professionals visiting the remote school.

The Work for the Dole participants were sponsored by Job Prospects and funded by the federal Department of Employment.

Wugularr School students Salwyn and Liam check out the van with Envision Employment Services’ Frank Natoli and Gina Hartzopoulos. 164226 Picture: ROB CAREW

Rebecca Luxon in the hot seat, ready for her shave, supported by Leaukaemia Foundation campaigns co-ordinator Lindsey Teal, Colin Gibbons and hairdresser Vera Fink. 165333 Rebecca Luxon loses her locks at the hands of hairdresser Vera Fink.

165333

Big bucks head for great shave A hair-raising Dandenong event brought in more than $8000 for the Leukaemia Foundation.

Dandenong man Colin Gibbons was thrilled with the result from his third annual World’s Greatest Shave event, held at Dandenong Workers Social Club on Sunday 5 March.

“We’ve crossed the $8000 mark and we’re still counting,” he said.

The first two events raised a combined $12,000.

Mr Gibbons said that “close to 100odd” people shaved and coloured their hair on the day, including emergency services workers and volunteers.

“I’ve spoken to both the police and firies and they were so stoked they’re making it their permanent base for their haircuts,” he said.

“We had a magic time.

“We are going to come back for the fourth year.”

12341051-LB09-17

Don’t suffer in silence Cnr Princes Highway and Heatherton Road Noble Park VIC | 03 9549 6327 www.southeasternprivate.com.au A member of the

group.

Anxiety and depression are real and help is available.

Anxiety and depression If you or a loved one are are re and help is available. affected, South Eastern Private Hospital and the new mental If you or a loved one are afect health services are now South Eastern insured, Private Hospital and open to privately the new mental health Workcover, TAC and DVAservices clients. are now open to privately insur Workcover, and DVA clien Based in NobleTAC Park, our professional mental health Based in Noble Park, our team professional mental health team can take referrals from can take referrals from your your GP for our overnight GP fortreatments our overnight in patient or in patient treatments or specialised specialised mental health daymen health day programs. programs.

If you prefer, callcall us us today forfor mor If you prefer, today more information or discuss in information or discuss in conidenc confidence.

One in FIVE One in FIVE Australian Australians will will experience experience somesome form formofofmental mental illness illness in lifetime. their in their lifetime.

23 11 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

It’s none of our business but…

VALLEY VILLAGE MEWS RETIREMENT VILLAGE

Mulch piles burn in Bangholme. 164832 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Fire crews tore apart burning piles of mulch to extinguish a fire on a Bangholme property.

A CFA spokeswoman said firefighters were called to the blaze on Fernside Drive about 4.20am on Tuesday 7 March.

They arrived to find three piles of mulch on fire, covering an area of about 10 by four metres, and brought the fire under control just before 5am.

The cause is being investigated.

A pop-up drive-through recycling day will help Greater Dandenong residents to ditch everything from bicycles to mattresses, prams and electronic goods.

From 8am to 2pm on Saturday 18 March, residents can drop off up to 15 items from their car or trailer at Springvale customer service centre, 397-405 Springvale Road.

The Dandenong event held on Saturday 4 March attracted 927 vehicles.

Community safety will be in the spotlight in Keysborough on Thursday.

Greater Dandenong Council’s Red Gum Ward representatives are hosting the event at the South Eastern Masonic Centre, 270 Hutton Road, from 7pm to 8.30pm on 16 March.

Victoria Police representatives and Keysborough MP Martin Pakula will also be in attendance.

Keysborough’s Coach House Dairy cleaned up at the Royal Agricultural Society of New South Wales’ Cheese and Dairy Awards.

Its coffee and milk product won gold while its full cream jersey milk, mixed berry smoothie, and Coach House Dairy muesli, berry melange and nuts won silver.

The dairy’s mocha and mixed mango smoothie products came away with bronze medals.

In August last year the Journal visited NuLac, which produces the Coach House Dairy brand, after it received medals at last year’s event.

A 500-year family history in the trade preceded owner John Gommans’ foray into farming and goats are the biggest part of the business.

Attending the Dandenong Show will be cheaper this year.

Ticket prices for adults and children aged six to 16 have halved to $10 and $5 respectively.

Children aged under five enter free and parking will cost $5.

The dates for this year’s show are 11 and 12 November.

•฀ •฀ •฀ •฀ •฀ •฀ •฀ •฀

Units฀available฀for฀sale฀now,฀from฀$250,000 Purchase฀your฀unit฀by฀Strata฀Title Join฀in฀with฀Social฀Activities Keep฀it฀with฀exercise฀programs Superb฀Parklands฀to฀take฀your฀pet฀and meet residents Emergency฀Call฀pendant Community฀Bus฀for฀shopping A฀village฀built฀around฀beautiful฀parkland

Phone: 9793 3354 villagemews@iinet.net.au

12339430-CG07-17

112 STUD ROAD DANDENONG

Fax: 9793 7154

www.valleyvillagemews.com.au

Call in to meet our friendly staff to show you why you should make Valley Village Mews your home.

Every bit of construction gets us closer to a better train network.

Buses to replace trains from Sat 1st April to Wed 5th April, between Dandenong and Pakenham stations.

The Victorian Government is building bigger, better trains here in Melbourne as part of the largest transformation in our train network’s history. The new longer trains will mean more room for passengers and a better ride on the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines, but to run them we need to extend station platforms and upgrade power and signaling. With this disruption to services, it’s important to remember, every delay gets us closer to the train network our world-class city needs.

12341533-CB11-17

To find out how your trip may be affected, visit ptv.vic.gov.au or call 1800 800 007.

BIGGER TRAINS FOR A BETTER MELBOURNE Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

13 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

Monday, 13 March 2017

CRAFTSMANSHIP OF THE HIGHEST CALIBRE PAGE 2

SEE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT FEATURE PAGE 11

12342316-CG11-17

DANDENONG, NOBLE PARK, SPRINGVALE, KEYSBOROUGH, HALLAM, DOVETON, ENDEAVOUR HILLS

Proudly

COVER STORY

CRAFTSMANSHIP OF THE HIGHEST CALIBRE \

36 SOMERFIELD DRIVE SOUTH, KEYSBOROUGH

Presenting a near-new home of the highest calibre where unsurpassable luxury, grand proportions and exemplary accommodation combine harmoniously resulting in an extraordinary family residence of 48 squares.

Displaying exceptional attention to detail at every turn, this inspiring one-owner home on a wonderful allotment of 735 square metres is the spectacular vision of the award-winning Achieve Design Group.

It has four oversized bedrooms each fitted with luxury en suites and walk-in wardrobes, open plan living, and a home theatre room.

Its well-equipped kitchen has 60mm stone benches, stainless steel appliances and butler’s pantry.

Other features include ducted heating and refrigerated cooling, ducted vacuum, remote security and intercom with key and swipe card entry and 18 4.5kw solar panels.

Outdoors is a decked entertainment area, outdoor kitchen including barbecue, gas stove cooktop and fridge, landscaped gardens, vegetable garden and 15 varieties of fruit trees.

POSTCODE

3173

4

4

2

BIGGIN AND SCOTT, GREATER DANDENONG OZAN KANBUR, 0403 644 379, COREY (KHOI) LE, 0417 311 491 36 SOMERFIELD DRIVE SOUTH INSPECT: BY APPOINTMENT PRICE: ON APPLICATION

www.clarkRE.com.au

AUCTION

WARRAGUL / Level 1/59 Victoria Street Call Cara McIntosh 0499 611 671 Inspect By Appointment

Prime Commercial Property in the Heart of Town This highly enviable piece of real estate located in the heart of Warragul, at approx. 909m2 in building area size, is extremely unique and primed for those looking for a solid return and future growth. Zoned Commercial 1 this property is situated in an elevated position with main street frontage opposite Woolworths Shopping Complex on a highly trafficked strip. This property has front and rear lane access to a large off street carpark and is currently home to a fantastic long term Tenant with a secure Lease in place. The unique freehold investment has many endearing features for both the current Tenant and future prospects.

AUCTION / Fri 7th April at the Mercure Hotel, 23 Mason Street, Warragul at 2:00pm TERMS / 10% Deposit, Balance in 30/60/90/120 days

33 Smith St Warragul

40 Princes Way Drouin

Call 03 5623 6466

Call 03 5625 1671

2 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

Connecting people and communities DJ

WE LOVE IT

DANDENONG These architecturally designed six star energy rated new town homes are ready to be lived in now.

Available are choices of three high-quality town homes with three bedrooms with en suite and walk-in wardrobes, his and her wash basins and double garages.

They range in size from unit two at 16.41 squares, unit three at 14.43 squares and unit four at 17.24 squares of living.

Construction is now complete with the outside and courtyards fully landscaped.

This is a great opportunity for first home buyers to snap up a new home.

They are designed for low-maintenance living with well-appointed quality fixtures and fittings.

These homes boast laminated timber flooring on lower levels and wall-to-wall carpets on the upper levels, stainless steel appliances in the kitchens with stone benches, four-burner and six-burner cooktops, split system in the kitchen/ dining area, gas ducted heating, alarm system, intercom system, dishwasher, garden shed and water tank.

All this makes for an enviable list to satisfy the new owners’ every need.

At the rear a private open space awaits with water tank, clothes line and pavement area which allows the family to unwind and relax.

POSTCODE

3175

3

2

2

BARRY PLANT NOBLE PARK, 8710 0000 CHIEN LE, 0403 342 809 AND TIM STICKLEY, 0409 215 540 2-4/49 HEMMINGS STREET PRICE: ON APPLICATION INSPECTION INSTRUCTIONS: SATURDAY: AS ADVERTISED OR BY APPOINTMENT

WARRAGUL This stunning four-bedroom residence blends high-end style with the ease and comfort of a luxurious family home.

Located in the popular Chesterfield Park estate, on a generoussized 1031 square metre block, this home provides the ultimate indoor and outdoor space to live, relax and entertain.

The home features three spacious living areas which offer the perfect retreat for all members of the family.

The light-filled open plan kitchen/ living/ dining area is framed by an impressive six-metre stacking door which allows the room to spill out onto the large private decking that wraps around the central yard.

The quality and finish of this home is exceptional from the polished timber hardwood floors and stone benches to the porcelain tiles and manicured gardens.

The comforts of ducted heating and cooling and the home’s six-star energy rating provide a seamless living experience that’s both practical and sublime.

POSTCODE

3820

4

2

2

CLARK NEXTRE, WARRAGUL, 5623 6466, DROUIN, 5625 1671 PETER CLARK, 0418 599 432 10 HAWKESBURN COURT PRICE: $769,000 INSPECTION INSTRUCTIONS: BY APPOINTMENT

DJ

Connecting people and communities

Monday, 13 March, 2017 DANDENONG JOURNAL 3

SALES & RENTALS

118 walker st dandenong P: 9791 5922 F: 9792 2536

N IO T C AU

N IO T C AU

Dandenong North

Dandenong

57 carlton road

LOCATION IS THE KEY!

Hard to find three bedroom home in Dandenong North. This well presented home has a separate lounge/dining room with polished timber floors under the outdated but well cared for carpets.

There is a long driveway with easy access to the garage and rear yard which is ideal for an extension or redevelopment (STCA) or just a place for the kids and dog to play.

Located close to Wooranna Park Primary and Lyndale Secondary Schools, it’s an ideal family home or rental property.

24 Grandview avenue

CENTRAL PLUS VIEWS!

A SECURE INVESTMENT FOR YOUR FUTURE!

A solid, well constructed 1960’s style home set on an elevated block of approximately 586m2 in a quiet, no-through street.

Walk to the city centre, St John’s College, Primary Schools, Tafe College and Hospital precinct in minutes. Three big bedrooms, polished timber floors, all gas appliances, kitchen/meals area overlooking a secure backyard ideal for the kids. A spacious North facing lounge room has a lovely vista of the Dandenong Ranges. A real family home with loads of potential.

MAKE THIS ONE YOURS!

Dandenong

Dandenong

auction: saturday, 25th March, 2017 @ 12:30pm oPen: wed 5:00pm to 5:30pm & sat 12:00pm to 12:30pm

auction: saturday, 1st april, 2017 @ 11:00am (if not sold prior) oPen: wed 4:00pm to 4:30pm & sat 11:30am to 12:00pm

23 edith street

CENTRALLY LOCATED APARTMENTS! ONLY 5 LEFT!

119 Keneally street

LOW MAINTENANCE FAMILY LIVING!

These near new apartments are now on the market and are available either with existing tenants or vacant possession if you want to move in.

Many of these return in excess of 5% so the tenant pays your loan! Features stainless steel appliances to kitchen, split system air conditioning, walk out balcony for those warm summer nights, secure underground car parking and so much more! Located in Central Dandenong with easy access to the iconic Dandenong Market, Plaza, schools, Tafe, transport and more!

This spacious townhouse located in the Metro Village features two big living areas including a rear family room which opens to a secure courtyard/outdoor living area. There are three double bedrooms, full ensuite to the master, superb kitchen and all the extras including ducted heating and split system air conditioner. Large double garage with automatic door accessed by a private laneway.

For sale: Priced from: 1 B/r $280,000, 2 B/r $295,000 oPen: wed 3:40pm to 4:00pm & sat 11:00am to 11:30am

For sale: $430,000 to $480,000 oPen: wed 5:40pm to 6:00pm & sat 12:30pm to 1:00pm

Dandenong

Dandenong

3/4 hiGh street

CENTRAL TOWNHOUSE!

CENTRAL MODERN ESTATE!

4/4 hiGh street

BIG & BEAUTIFUL!

This near new home is located only minutes walk to the market and city centre in a small block of four quality built homes.

A glossy emprite kitchen featuring European appliances adjoins a massive living area which opens to a rear courtyard.

Two double bedrooms and upstairs family room opens to a large, sunny balcony.

Includes ducted heating, evaporative cooling and 2.7m ceiling heights. Large single garage with internal access.

Currently let for $390.00 per week to excellent Tenants.

TOUCH OF CLASS!

This outstanding, craftsman built townhouse has all the appointment you desire PLUS a central location that is hard to beat!

The home features three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, powder room, three toilets, huge white emprite kitchen with European appliances and an enormous living room which opens to a rear courtyard.

There are 2.7m ceilings, central heating and cooling, quality fittings and a large garage with internal access. Still under Builder’s Warranty!

QUALITY LIVING!

Hallam

Dandenong

For sale: offers over $490,000 oPen: wed 4:40pm to 5:00pm & sat 10:20am to 10:40am

2/57 Kays avenue

SPACIOUS TWO BEDROOM UNIT!

This well located two bedroom unit is one of four on the block. It consists of a formal entry, comfortable lounge and a huge kitchen/meals area with room for a large table where all the family can gather. The main bedroom is large enough to accommodate a full king size bedroom suite.

There is a courtyard outside and a lock up garage.

Located close to Schools, transport and shops.

Currently rented to great tenants who would love to stay on. Vacant possession is also available.

INSPECTION IS A MUST!

For sale: offers over $295,000 oPen: wed 3:00pm to 3:20pm & sat 1:00pm to 1:30pm

For sale: offers over 530,000 oPen: wed 5:00pm to 5:20pm & sat 10:40am to 11:00am

4/1370 heatherton road

FANTASTIC TWO BEDROOM UNIT!

This well presented unit is currently rented until June, 2017 and would make an ideal investment or move in next year.

Features floating timber floors, ducted heating, large gas cooktop to kitchen, built in robes, courtyard, lock up garage and more!

There are loads of windows for a bright, airy feel and French doors to close the lounge room off from the kitchen area.

Make this the next property on your inspection list.

EASY ACCESS TO FREEWAYS!

For sale: offers over $320,000 oPen: wed 5:00pm to 5:20pm & sat 1:20pm to 1:40pm 12342627

Daryl Rayner Director 0411 537 820

Mick Whelan Sales Manager 0416 003 505

4 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

John Ratnam Sales Consultant 0414 556 517

Stephen Lamb Sales Consultant 0421 045 460

Frank Holohan Senior Consultant

9791 5922

mclennanrealestate.com.au Connecting people and communities DJ

NOBLE PARK 32 STACKPOOLE STREET

3a

1b

1c

4e

4a

NOBLE PARK 34 AMBRIE CRESCENT

1b

1c

4e

Family Haven Officially on the market after 19 Years of Great Ownership!

Immaculately presented from head to toe, this outstanding home has been perfectly crafted for any family and still screams out entertainers delight! With hardwood polished floor boards, good sized BDRs, a formal living plus the centrepiece of the home is the stunning kitchen which overlooks the rear undercover pergola area and pool! This is quite simply an amazing home!

Great Opportunity – 952m2 (approx) of Blue Chip Real Estate! Situated in one of Noble Park’s popular pockets is this 4 bedroom weatherboard home on a clean rectangular allotment of 952m2 (approx) that will make an amazing purchase. Inside you have a spacious living area adjoining on the your open meals & kitchen area overlooking onto your massive yard! You will find 4 good size BDRs, a functional kitchen & a well presented bathroom + an outdoor undercover decking area.

METHOD

METHOD

PRICE INSPECT CONTACT

Saturday 18th March at 1:30pm Contact Agent Thurs 5:30 - 6pm & Sat 1 - 1:30pm Photo ID required Kush Chetri 0425 199 192 Fab Bignoux 0401 344 806 NOBLE PARK CENTRAL 8549 9700

PRICE INSPECT CONTACT

Saturday 1st April at 11:30am Contact Agent Thurs 5:15 - 5:45pm & Sat 11:40am - 12pm Photo ID required Kush Chetri 0425 199 192 Omid Mahramzadeh 0432 567 468 NOBLE PARK CENTRAL 8549 9700

NOBLE PARK 390 Princes Highway 8710 0000 | KEYSBOROUGH 1/ 320 Cheltenham Road 8769 1888 SPRINGVALE 339 Springvale Road, Springvale 9558 5111 | DANDENONG SALES 4 Langhorne Street, Dandenong 9706 7455 PROUDLY SERVICING: Endeavour Hills • Dingley Village • Doveton • Eumemmerring

12342647

Raine&Horne Keysborough

9769 1888

Shop L01, PO1A Parkmore Shopping Centre, 317 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough

We have moved Considering Buying? Selling? or Leasing?

28 Beau Vorno Avenue, Keysborough Your Corner of Potential!

3A 1B 1C A true gem awaits the discerning buyer. With endless potential, this BV home on a corner allotment of 552m2 approx comprises 3 bdrms bthrm, lounge, dining, kitchen & it’s close to buses, schools & Parkmore Shopping Centre. Call now to inspect & to invest in your future!

Terms: 10% Deposit.

Auction Sat 25th March 11:00AM View

Come in and see us at our new convenient location

Parkmore Shopping Centre

Sat 18th Mar, 2017 11:00am - 11:30am

Agent Betty Weereratne 0437 673 111

Situated next to Commonwealth Bank

Phone 9769 1888 Raine&Horne Keysborough 9548 4011 | rh.com.au/keysborough

WE DELIVER...

GREATER DANDENONG

KeysBorough

36 SOMERFIELD DRIVE SOUTH

W G E N TIN S I L

craftsmanship of the highest caliBre presenting a near-new home of the highest calibre level, where unsurpassable luxury, grand proportions and exemplary accommodation combine harmoniously, resulting in an extraordinary family residence of 48 squares (approx). displaying exceptional attention to detail at every turn, this inspiring one-owner home on a wonderful allotment of 735sqm (approx) is the spectacular vision of award-winning achieve design group.

• Bedrooms itted w/ luxury ensuites & WIR • Open plan kitchen/living/dining • Home theatre room • State-of-the-art kitchen w/ 60mm stone benches • Outdoor kitchen • Ducted heating/refrigerated cooling • Intercom w/ key and swipe card entry • x18 4.5kw solar panels • 48sq/735m2 (approx) now is your chance to secure a home experienced by one – envied by many!

A4 B4 E5 C2 private sale esr Contact Agent vieW

By Appointment contact Ozan Kanbur 0403 644 379 Corey (khoi) Le 0417 311 491 office 363 Springvale Road, Springvale Tel: 03 8581 0999

W G E N TIN S LI

KeysBorough 2 ROY COURT loW-maintenance, high comfort, priZed position a sensational low-maintenance sanctuary within an esteemed precinct of Keysborough offered to the market for the irst time in 30 years! this wonderful single level home is a brilliant enterprise for investors, stylish haven for young families or an effortless lifestyle for downsizers.

• • • •

Spacious L-shaped lounge Master bedroom w/ tiled ensuite Ducted heating/evaporative cooling Accommodation for multiple vehicles

363 Springvale Road, Springvale 6 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

A3 B2 E2 C5 auction 08th April @ 2:30pm Term: 10% Deposit, Balance 30/60 Days esr vieW

Contact Agent Wed 6;00 - 6:30pm Sat 2:00 - 2:30pm Photo ID Required contact Ozan Kanbur 0403 644 379 Corey (khoi) Le 0417 311 491 office 363 Springvale Road, Springvale

springvale south 4 RICKSON COURT elevated family home in a prime location. combining an excellent design with quality ittings, this double storey home comes with a self contained unit offer a genuinely modern yet luxurious living environment.

• Family bathroom with separate toilet • Timber-top kitchen with SS appliances • Zoned & light illed living spaces • Formal lounge w separate dining room • Hardwood loorboards throughout • Ducted heating and split system AC’s

858 10 999

A5 B3 E3 C4 auction 25th March @ 2:30pm 10% Deposit, Balance 30/60 Days esr Contact Agent vieW Wed 6:00 - 6:30pm Sat 2:00 -2:30pm Photo ID Required contact Tommy Nguyen 0431 644 889 Corey (Khoi) Le 0417 311 491 office 363 Springvale Road, Springvale Tel: 03 8581 0999

bigginscott.com.au Connecting people and communities DJ

www.stockdaleleggo.com.au/dandenong

3 Fifth Avenue Dandenong

2 Barnsley Drive Endeavour Hills

GREAT 1ST HOME OR PRIME INVESTMENT Close to shops, station & CBD, this spacious rendered brick home has lots of potential. Set on approx 640m2 lot there is lots of room for later extension or potential development (STP). Featuring large rooms & high ceilings, the plan offers 3 bedrooms, spacious lounge with gas heating, separate kitchen & tiled bathroom with separate shower. Stunning polished hardwood loors are another bonus. Don’t miss out on this!!

FEATURE PACKED 4BR IN PRIME LOCATION Auction Terms Price Inspect Agent

Sat 25th March at 12pm 10% dep-bal 30/60 days $550,000+ Wednesday 6-6.30pm Saturday 11-11.30am Jerome Mulholland 0401 060 804

30 Lee Avenue Springvale North

Mortgagee Auction Sat 25th March at 1pm Terms 10% dep - bal 60 days Price $620,000+ Inspect Wednesday 6-6.30pm Saturday 10-10.30am Agent Neil Butler 0411 637 088 Ben Luu 0414 288 763

6/149 Princes Highway Dandenong

ATTRACTIVE HOME IN POPULAR AREA Sound vinyl clad 3 bedroom home with lots of potential.

Offers spacious lounge with RC air conditioner. BIR’s in 1st & 2nd bedrooms. Gas heating & gas cooktop in kitchen.

Updated bathroom with large shower for disabled.

Hardwood loors under carpet. Carport & large garage with remote to door. On 620.3m2 block with potential for dual occupancy (STP). Close to schools, shops & major arterials. Hurry to inspect.

Set on elevated 679m lot this modern contemporary home offers a terriic living area comprising lounge with cathedral ceiling, formal dining, quality kitchen itted with WO, gas HP & dishwasher, family area leads to spacious rumpus room. Lots of family space with 3 double bedrooms plus study or 4th bedroom downstairs. Other features include full ensuite to master, double garage with internal access & covered alfresco area. Neutral decor and ducted heating throughout. MUST BE SOLD!

LIVE IN OR INVEST Auction Terms Price Inspect Agent

Sat 8th April at 11am 10% dep - bal 30/60 days $550,000+ Saturday 12-12.30pm Ben Luu 0414 288 763

Close to shopping centre & transport this upstairs 2 br apartment represents excellent value. Open plan living with loating loorboards to lounge, practical kitchen, 2 double bedrooms with BIR’s & updated bathroom with porcelain tiles. Located in small complex with carport & separate water meter. Let to long term tenant at $260per week but vacant possession available.

Private Price Inspect Agent

$210,000+ Saturday 1-1.30pm Tom Dallas 0403 036 601

36/1165 Stud Road ✤ ✢✁✂✄✄✙

1-4/22 Pickett Street Dandenong BRAND NEW TOWNHOUSES

L A S T AVA I L A B L E A PA R T M E N T

Fantastic opportunity to buy a quality townhouse in a small group of four & located very close to station & shops.

Each unit has gas cooking & HWS, 2 RC air conditioners, quality tiling & choice of garage or carport. Includes loating timber loors & carpets to bedrooms. Ideal for investment as easily let or great 1st home as qualify for $10,000 grant. Unit 1 offers 3 bedrooms & separate drive to garage. Other units offer 2 bedrooms & open study to two. Private upstairs balcony to each. Hurry to inspect or be disappointed.

Extra spacious new 2 bed apartment on the top level featuring lots of natural light & views from the balcony.

Offers open plan living with quality laminated kitchen including WO, HP & DW. Floating loorboards to living area which opens to large balcony. Double bedrooms with BIR’s & full ensuite to master. Other features include intercom, quality tiling, stone benchtops, basement carpark & storage. Great investment or irst home. Hurry to avoid disappointment.

Price Inspect Agent

$399,000 Wednesday 5-5.30pm Saturday 12-12.30pm Tom Dallas 0403 036 601

Private Price Inspect Agent

$420,000+ By appointment Neil Butler 0411 637 088

12342607

9791 3177 DJ

Connecting people and communities

Shop 1, 11 Langhorne Street, Dandenong Monday, 13 March, 2017 DANDENONG JOURNAL 7

SEJ

12342577

Real Estate

JINDIVICK - A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO BE

Spectacular and amazing views from the heart of the very best of Gippsland. A unique 1.0 ha (2.5 acres) gently sloping to the South with views across the valley over some of Victoria’s most productive farm land. Strzelecki Ranges to the South and Westernport Bay views to the South East. Rural living Zone- Schedule 5 (RLZ5), Power pit at property – ready for building your dream home.

NOTHING ELSE AVAILABLE TO COMPARE WITH THIS UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY.

more sold?

33% more homes sold when advertised through newspapers and online instead of online alone.

Sell your home today with....

1228119-CB20-16

1164 JACKsONs TrACK JINDIVICK

sALE BY sET DATE 31/03/17 Internet ID: 11169479 View property and more details at www.sej.com.au

5622 3800 Cnr smith & Queen st, Warragul

www.sej.com.au

Core Logic Australia – Media Maximiser January 2015. Based on sales of houses and units.

Connecting people and communities

EXCLUSIVE PAKENHAM DISTRICT

TONIMBUK

8 Marna Crt, Noble Park PALATIAL HOME ON 1064m² 4A 2B 2+2C

AUCTION 18th March 1:00 PM View

Sat 11.30am -12.15pm Wed 5:30pm - 6:15pm

Agent Adi Garcia 0484160701 Pradeep Ahuja 0408160701

Raine�Horne Greater Dandenong 9793 9793

I

rh.com.au/dandenong

RENOWNED

“Koonalda Park” 400 ACRES - 162 ha

Prime location: 175 Bridal Road, Tonimbuk Approx 6.5km from Princes Highway in the Tonimbuk Valley and 75 minutes Melbourne.

Long ownership property of high reputation offering picturesque balance of improved pasture country varying from heavy carrying flats to undulating pastures O Excellent subdivision into 15 paddocks - laneway system - excellent fencing - Watered by 20 dams O 3 bedroom brick veneer home in private setting O Timber cattleyards, hay and machinery sheds O

12339981-KK8-17

Huge block, Great family home / Development potential. (STCA) This Big welcoming, well maintained, Elegant home is Boasting two living areas, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms / Toilets, Laundry, Swimming pool and Double garage with 2 carports.

Expressions of Interest Closing Friday 24th March at 2.00pm Melbourne (03) 9866 5588 Peter: 0418 317 440 Matt: 0418 512 494

12342892-KC11-17

AREASPECIALIST New Listing

3 A 2 B 1 C 1 D 1 E 655 F

4+ A 3 B 3 C 3 D 2 E 531 F

Springvale 31 Grace Park Avenue

Keysborough 35 Daylily Drive

Auction 12:30pm 8th April

Auction 7:00pm 29 March

Price Contact Agent

Price Contact Agent

Inspect Sat 11:00am

Laura Voinea 0435 921 730

Aspendale Gardens Shop 13 Narelle Drive | Keysborough 2/43-47 Cheltenham Road

Inspect Sat 11:00am

Dinesh Raghu 0431 131 157

AREASPECIALIST.COM.AU

AREASPECIALIST

We welcome Jaymee Le, she brings 8 years of experience to our elite team.

When selling your most valuable asset, call your AREA

Dinesh Raghu

Dee Kawsar

Laura Voinea

Jaymee Le

0431 131 157

0423 215 815

0435 921 730

0416 336 902

Adem Duramanoglu

Vy Huynh

Lily Vuong

Andy Choi

Michael Choi

0417 555 689

0415 988 116

0472 608 618

0432 671 702

0431 063 855

Aspendale Gardens Shop 13 Narelle Drive | Keysborough 2/43-47 Cheltenham Road DJ

SPECIALIST

Connecting people and communities

AREASPECIALIST.COM.AU Monday, 13 March, 2017 DANDENONG JOURNAL 9

Dandenong 10 Aratula Street

Dandenong 3/80 Clow Street

Homes that combine print with a digital campaign sell nearly 7% quicker than online alone.

Sell your home today with....

1220801-EG11-16

sold quicK enough?

For auction.

9793 3175

For sale.

9793 3175

$700,000+ Saturday 1 April at 11:30am • Development site of approx 833m2 • 3 bedrooms, 2 living areas • Prime location

282 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong obrienrealestate.com.au Lin Zhang 0403 187 808 Dennis Tzortzoglou 0438 341 066

$330,000+ • 2 bedrooms with WIR • Central location • Single lockup garage

282 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong obrienrealestate.com.au Dennis Tzortzoglou 0438 341 066 Arty Tzortzoglou 0407 002 734

Core Logic Australia – Media Maximiser January 2015. Based on sales of houses and units.

Connecting people and communities

F3 G1 H1

F2 G1 H1

Hallam 34 Sigvard Boulevard

Hampton Park 8 Trawalla Court

For auction.

9793 3175

For auction.

9793 3175

Saturday 25 March at 12:30pm • 5 bedrooms, 3 with WIR • 3 living, two dining areas • Large alfresco with spa

282 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong obrienrealestate.com.au Bob Milkovic 0422 504 106 Dragana Vasich 0432 042 686

$400,000+ Saturday 8 April at 1:30pm • Land size approx 635m2 • 3 good size bedrooms

282 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong obrienrealestate.com.au Bob Milkovic 0422 504 106 Dragana Vasich 0432 042 686

F5 G4 H2

F3 G1 H6

Endeavour Hills 6 Fleming Close

Endeavour Hills 5 Janmara Court

For auction.

9706 0556

For auction.

9706 0556

Saturday 1 April at 1:30pm • 4 bedroom home on 779m2 (appox.)

• Hostess kitchen opening onto dining • 3 over sized living areas • Alfresco area overlooking back garden

Shop 41 Endeavour Hills SC , Endeavour Hills obrienrealestate.com.au Shenay Miller 0418 149 641

Buyers Over $520,000 Saturday 1 April at 11:30am • 4 bedroom home on 961m2 of land • Stunning new kitchen • 2 light filled living zones

Shop 41 Endeavour Hills SC , Endeavour Hills obrienrealestate.com.au Jay Giblett 0417 681 312

F4 G2 H2 I1

F4 G2 H2

Endeavour Hills 3 Leila Court

Endeavour Hills 249 Power Road

For auction.

9706 0556

For auction.

9706 0556

Saturday 25 March at 11:30am • 4 bedroom home rests on 848m2 • Light filled kitchen, 2 living zones • Wonderful alfresco area overlooking the low maintenance back garden

Shop 41 Endeavour Hills SC , Endeavour Hills obrienrealestate.com.au Jay Giblett 0417 681 312

Saturday 25 March at 12:30pm • 3 bedroom home on 652m2 of land • Renovated kitchen (stone benchtops) • 2 light filled living zones • Wonderful enclosed alfresco

Shop 41 Endeavour Hills SC , Endeavour Hills obrienrealestate.com.au Jay Giblett 0417 681 312

F4 G2 H2 I1 10 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

F3 G1 H3 Connecting people and communities DJ

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

A FAMILY BUSINESS FOR FAMILY SERVICE TO MANAGE YOUR INVESTMENT Call today for a free rental appraisal 9706 7455 The Director of Barry Plant Dandenong Rentals, Colin has 2

1

1

4

2

2

worked within the Property Management industry for over

AGENT: BARRY PLANT DANDENONG, 9706 7455

AGENT: BARRY PLANT DANDENONG, 9706 7455

forty years. Barry Plant Dandenong Rentals is a family owned

CONTACT PERSON: COLIN KITNEY, 0419 510 740

CONTACT PERSON: COLIN KITNEY, 0419 510 740

and operated business. Colin’s son Steve is the Rental

ADDRESS: 3/5 RHODEN COURT

ADDRESS: 2 CASSUGGAN CLOSE

RENTAL PRICE PER WEEK; $390

RENTAL PRICE PER WEEK; $440 PER WEEK

Department Manager, Colins wife Carolyn, daughter Natalie and daughter in law Amitha help take care of all your rental administration & accounts.

DANDENONG NORTH

HALLAM

Situated in the bowl of a quiet court, this neat two-bedroom unit is set on a well-maintained block.

Features include gas heating and cooking, two bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, a tiled kitchen and dining area, private rear yard and single car space for off-street parking.

This luxury fourbedroom, two-bathroom family home set in quiet court location is only two years old.

It has a modern kitchen with gas appliances, ducted heating and cooling, huge family living area and quality drapes and light fittings.

All of this is set in a low maintenance garden.

It’s available from 1 April.

POSTCODE

3175

POSTCODE

3175

Dandenong Rentals DANDENONG 4 Langhorne Street 9706 7455

9706 7455

dandenong@barryplant.com.au

Be a part of new stylish and vibrant neighbourhood and enjoy the conveniences of great facilities in the surrounding area in One Village. Underpinning the location are sporting and aquatic facilities: Casey Complex and Casey RACE. Located next to One Village is the prestigious Mayfield Estate and nearby shopping centers, schools, medical facilities and a local library for your convenience. With easy access to Melbourne city and surrounding parklands and reserves provides a relaxed country charm to complete the lifestyle you want.

A PLACE TO CALL HOME

12342600-AM11-17

22 Enterprise Avenue, HAMPTON PARK

www.harvestrealty.com.au

8787 8498

Hurry, only 6 double storey homes remain!

Double storey homes from $382,085

/RFDWHG ZLWKLQ WKH 6DYDQQDK (VWDWH 0LOOL 7HUUDFHV FDWHUV WR DOO OLIHVW\OHV DQG EXGJHWV DQG KDV TXLFNO\ EHFRPH WKH SUHIHUUHG FKRLFH RI ORFDO UHVLGHQWV WR FDOO KRPH All homes include turn-key packages, act now to secure your dream home.

Enquire today to secure your place at Milli Terraces. $UYLQG 0DKDMDQ _ _ _ %UXQW 5RDG 2É?FHU

milliterraces.com.au

12 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

12342321-ACM11-17

0HOZD\V 5HI & 6DOHV 6XLWH 2SHQ 6DWXUGD\ :HGQHVGD\ SP

Connecting people and communities DJ

MANUFACTURING IN FOCUS

Cry goes out in push for growth

By Casey Neill Jobs and growth - one Dandenong South manufacturer is embodying the catch cry in a big way.

Hilton Manufacturing needs up to 25 new employees to cope with an expected 25 per cent growth in business over the next four to five months.

“Last time we had 25 per cent growth we were a business about a third of the size,” managing director Todd Hartley said.

“We probably had a flat couple of years.

“Over previous years we were more focused on delivering the product on time than looking at our infrastructure and making sure that we’re keeping up with progress.”

Hilton hired a new CEO last year.

“He took a step back to take a look at our infrastructure and what’s required to deal with our next period of growth,” Mr Hartley said.

“From there, it freed up a few of us in the company that have gone out and worked on the relationships, looked at new industries, looked at new processes that will equate to new work.

“All of a sudden, it’s paying off at the moment.”

He said that on top of that there’d been a significant increase in truck builds with Kenworth, Iveco and Volvo Mack.

“That’s been the icing on the cake,” he said.

“Manufacturing in this region over the next 12 months is really going to be strong.

“It’s going to go through a growth phase.”

The sheet metal fabricator is looking for process workers, welders, CNC operators, tool makers, and jig and fixture makers.

“We’re more than happy to spend time with them to train them up, but as long as they have a work ethic,” Mr Hartley said.

“Anyone that wants to turn up to work, we’re more than happy to give them a go.”

He said the auto industry exit did provide some opportunity, but workers were staying on

Hilton Manufacturing workers need more colleagues. board until the end.

“It doesn’t look like anyone’s prepared to leave early because of their payout,” he said.

“We can’t wait until October, we’ve got to do something now.”

The company is expecting to expand by 25 per cent in the next few months.

12342382-LB11-17

JOB VACANCIES

We are looking to employ staff in the areas of Robotics Programming, CNC, Laser Operation and Welding to work across all areas of our business Hilton Manufacturing commenced business in 1976. We have two factories in Dandenong and one in Brisbane. Hilton is a the preferred supplier to Volvo & Mack, Kenworth, Mercedes, Iveco and Western Star of fuel tanks and associated mounting components.

It can be a hot and busy work environment Quality of work produced is critical You will be part of a growing team If you are looking for a career with a growing, busy and diverse sheet metal manufacturer please contact Anthony Di Battista at Hilton Manufacturing on anthonyd@hiltonmfg.com.au 27 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

ENTERTAINMENT What’s on Wendy Grace’s artwork was selected from proposals received from a call out to artists who had previously entered the She competition.

One of the artists will be at the gallery from 11am to 3pm on Saturdays during the exhibition.

■ Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, corner Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong.

Tuesday 14 March to Saturday 22 April. Open 11am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 11am to 3pm Saturdays.

Suicide workshop SuicideTALK invites participants aged 15-plus to become more aware of suicide prevention opportunities in their communities.

The course deals directly with the issue of stigma and focuses on the question ‘how should we talk about suicide?’.

■ Dandenong. Book for location. Register Thursday 16 March, 6.30pm to 8pm, and Monday 27 March, 6.30pm to 8pm. Book at suicidesaferschools.org.au/training. Call Debra Croft on 0411 294 320 or email training@lifecentral.org.au for more information.

Dandenong Art Series As part of the Greater Dandenong Libraries and Walker Street Gallery Dandenong Art Series, artist Grace Fraraccio will teach participants how to make images and words work creatively together.

The workshop is suitable for children and adults.

■ Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. Tuesday 14 March, 6.30pm.

Springvale Library, 411 Springvale Road, Springvale. Tuesday 21 March, 6.30pm. Free event but bookings preferred. Call 9706 8441.

Craft and friendship

English tutoring Sisters of Mercy run free English tutoring sessions for refugees and asylum seekers.

■ Dandenong Library Community Room, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. Fridays during school terms, 9am to 11am. Call 1300 630 920 or see library staff for more information.

Harmony Festival: Everyone’s Welcome Celebrate cultural diversity through an international dress parade, multicultural concert, community stalls, free cultural activities and more.

The festival will support Cultural Diversity Week in promoting community harmony, awareness, understanding and mutual respect.

■ Harmony Square, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. Wednesday 22 March, noon to 8pm.

Themed story and toddler time Attend these Cultural Diversity Week Storytime and Toddler Time sessions in traditional cultural dress or orange clothing to listen to stories which help children develop their imagination and vocabulary.

■ Springvale Library, 411 Springvale Road, Springvale. Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. Monday 20 March and Thursday 23 March, 10.30am. Call 1300 630 920 for more information.

Circus Oz: Model Citizens Circus Oz unpacks the myths of modern Australia through acrobatic circus with live music, lighting, physical improbability and absurdity.

■ Drum Theatre, corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Friday 24 March, 7.30pm, and Saturday 25 March, 1.30pm.

Tickets are priced from $19.

Food swap The Keysborough Res School Community Swap meets on the fourth Saturday of the month.

Members swap home-grown produce, jams, preserves, baked goodies, seedlings, seeds,

Chaw with co-ordinator Lucy, mentor Alison and Sharifeh. 154924

Entrepreneurs earn their stripes Greater Dandenong migrants and refugees have flown the coop and landed at St Kilda’s Get Striped Festival.

Women who took part in Space2b’s Ready to Fly program at Heritage Hill in Dandenong will have their own stalls at the event on Saturday 25 March.

The festival will celebrate diversity, acceptance and respect and feature creations hand-made by newly arrived migrants, refugees, local creatives and children.

There’ll also be dance, African beading, basket weaving and guest speakers.

The Journal met stallholders Leila, Lhakpa, Chaw and Rosa in June last year at one of social enterprise Space2b’s fortnightly sessions at Heritage Hill which was designed to help budding entrepreneurs to finesse cuttings, eggs, books, tools and more.

■ Keysborough Resurrection School’s productive gardens next to Keysborough Freedom Club. Enter via the driveway next to the retirement village at 414-418 Corrigan Road, Keysborough. Saturday 25 March, 10am to 11am.

BYO mug for a free cuppa.

Fotheringham Reserve friends This group holds monthly activities including water watch, planting indigenous seedlings, weed control, seed collecting and nature walks.

■ Fotheringham Reserve, Pyke Street, Dandenong. Sunday 26 March, 10am to noon.

Wallarano School fete There’ll be food stalls, side amusements and rides. Entry is free.

■ Wallarano Primary School, corner Wallarano Drive and Buckley Street, Noble Park. Sunday 26 March, 11am to 4pm. Call Deb on 9798 1055 or email arztenhofer.debra.j1@edumail. vic.gov.au.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

and potentially monetarise their skills.

Chaw from Springvale South was cutting pant patterns when she shared her story.

“I do both children’s clothing and women’s fashion,” she said.

“I also make jewellery as well. I never stop learning new things.”

The women were from mixed backgrounds and cultures, with different skills.

“Space2b is all about making connections and to become integrated and accepted,” co-founder Janine Lawrie said.

“All funds raised, whether it be through our retail shop, workshops, events or our future cafe, directly support the empowerment of new migrants and refugees.

Space2b’s Get Striped Festival will run from 9am to 4pm on Saturday 25 March at St Kilda Primary School, 2b Brighton Road, St Kilda.

Dandenong West Primary School celebrates Cultural Diversity Week and Harmony Day with cultural performances and free family-friendly activities.

■ Dandenong West Primary School, 32 Birdwood Avenue, Dandenong. Friday 17 March, 2pm to 6pm.

Sunset Cinema Grab friends and family, a picnic, blankets and chairs for these free screenings.

Oddball and Eddie the Eagle will screen in a double-header on Friday 17 March.

■ Harmony Square, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. From 7pm. Call 8571 1000 for more information.

Garden open day

Friendship Place This free, weekly friendship group will meet for board games, card games, jigsaw puzzles, pool, coffee and more.

■ Dandenong Church of Christ, 139 David Street, Dandenong. Tuesdays from 14 March, 1pm to 4pm. Call Sharon Edwards on 0410 623 056 for more information.

Sandown Probus Club This not-for-profit club for retired people aged over 55 meets on the second Monday of the month.

Members participate in outings, coffee mornings, cinema trips and more. New members are welcome.

■ Club Noble, Moodemere Street, Noble Park.

Monday 13 March, 10am. Call 9791 6807 for more information.

She, 2017 Four artists in this exhibition were selected from art school graduate exhibitions late last year. Each has a distinctly different approach.

There’ll be information on composting and worm farming, a bee keeper, a kids’ planting activity, sausage sizzle, raffle and more.

■ Springvale Community Gardens, 1-7 Morwell Parade, Springvale. Saturday 18 March, 10am to noon. Call 8571 1702 for more information.

Robotics workshop Robogals and Greater Dandenong Libraries will host this free session for kids aged seven to 11 years.

■ Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. Sunday 26 March, 12.15pm to 1.15pm. Call 1300 630 920 for more information or to register.

Maternal love and lament This free exhibition uses images of the mother to reflect on ideas of love and lament. The work seeks new ways of conceiving the maternal body.

■ Heritage Hill Museum and Historical Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong. Until Friday 31 March, Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 4pm. Call 9793 4511.

Let us light up your life with this great reader competition…

learning zones, an immersive cinema experience and an animatronic dragon.

LIGHTS BY DREAMWORKS – THE EXPERIENCE

We are giving 12 families the chance to win a family pass (4 tickets) for the Saturday 25th March, 10am session by Lights by DreamWorks – The Experience

Shrek and Kung-Fu Panda will light up Rosebud’s Foreshore Live Under the Big Top in March and April at an Australian-first exhibition of some of DreamWorks Animation’s best known characters in a large-scale lantern experience.

To be in the draw to win tickets email your name, address and contact number to wintickets@ starnewsgroup.com.au or write your name, address and contact number on the back of and envelope and mail to: Lights by DreamWorks – The Experience, PO Box 9, Pakenham Victoria 3810.

Lights by DreamWorks – The Experience is an interactive, walkthrough experience for all ages with more than 100 of DreamWorks’ characters brought to life.

Modelled on the traditional Chinese Lantern Festival, Lights by DreamWorks features huge illuminated figures familiar to the fans of the Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, How to Train Your Dragon and Madagascar movies.

Visitors will also be treated to a variety of scenographic pieces, LED furnishings, themed technology and 28 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

School festival

Entries close Friday 17 March at 4pm. Winners drawn from all entries received and notified.

For more info and other shows visit www.dreamworkslights.com.au Conditions apply: See starcommunity.com.au/competitions for details.

Connecting people & communities

12342032-PB10-17

This group shares skills in sewing, craft or quilting, friendship, a cuppa and a joke or two.

All skill levels are welcome.

■ The Open Door, 110 Ann Street, Dandenong. Tuesday, 10am to noon. A $4 per session donation is suggested. Call Trish or Jo on 9791 8664.

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

Hotel man’s quest for excellence

By Narelle Coulter Dandenong got a new world-class business hotel when Quest Dandenong Central opened in Walker Street last year.

For franchisees Tim Cross and Aaron Rooke it was the culmination of a huge personal and professional investment in Greater Dandenong.

The hotel has 95 apartments and can accommodate up to 250 guests. It offers high-speed WiFi, a gymnasium, conference room with state-ofthe-art audio and visuals, fully equipped kitchens and desks in each room.

For Mr Cross the opening of the hotel also meant moving his young family from the inner suburbs to Dandenong so he could live on-site as manager.

Daughter Emilia was just three months old when he and wife Maya moved into one of the new apartments.

Mr Cross has been with Quest since 2007 working in the company’s head office.

His role launching new hotels throughout Australia planted the seed that one day he would like to invest in the Quest brand and open his own hotel.

Dandenong, and its stunning transformation under the Revitalising Central Dandenong project, presented the perfect opportunity.

He was impressed by the Walker Street site, which is flanked by the Australian Taxation Office and is close to the large government services building, and by the presence in Greater Dandenong of world-class employers like Bombardier, Viridian, L’Oreal, Woolworths, Australia Post and Jayco.

“All these businesses bring in new people who need accommodation.”

He also spent countless hours studying the CBD’s future growth and mapping the growth of new industrial areas in Dandenong South and Keysborough.

Quest Central Dandenong franchisee Tim Cross in front of the new hotel. 165533 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS “I also really liked Dandenong because there are several large tracts of land which are being developed right now - the Logis business park, two Keysborough business parks, Key 1 and Key 2, and then, further down, Innovation Park,” he said.

“I spent a lot of time looking at all the development sites.

“I have seen the Quest group grow in my time from 68 to 130 plus properties.

“I’ve watched them to see what are the right ingredients. Some you can do with mathematics, some is gut feel as well.

“I’ve made the call not to travel interstate and plant my family interstate. I grew up in Melbourne

and I prefer to be in Melbourne.”

When Mr Cross and his wife were talking about moving to Dandenong, he put a copy of the council’s Great Bites Foodies Guide in Maya’s hands, which “really opened her eyes” to the area’s array of restaurants, cafes and delis.

“Within two weeks of moving in we were down at the market and we were blown away by the value of the market.

“Since we’ve moved in we’ve tried Ethiopian, Lebanese and Afghani. We love the multi-cultural aspect of the area.”

Mr Cross said the international nature of the Quest Central Dandenong customer base had surprised him in the short time the hotel had been open.

He and his staff have welcomed guests from Germany, Italy and India, among other countries.

“Quest is excellent for project workers, people who need to be in Dandenong for a whole week or a couple of weeks, because we have apartment style accommodation where guests can actually set up and live in the apartment, they can cook a roast in the oven,” he explained.

Quest held its official opening on 15 February.

The evening was chance for the business partners to take stock of what they and their team have achieved so far.

“It was wonderful to celebrate what we had put together,” Mr Cross said.

“It’s early days and, like with any business, it takes time to become solvent and profitable but the early signs are there for us.

“We can definitely see a path forward to making it a real success. We want to look after our customers who come to Dandenong, make sure they wake up refreshed and ready to grow their businesses as they go off to work and, hopefully, grow the local economy as well.”

To tour the new Quest Central Dandenong contact business development manager Emily Grudic on 8710 5700.

QUEST DANDENONG CENTRAL NOW OPEN Located in the heart of Dandenong’s business district, on Walker Street, Quest’s newest apartment hotel ofers 95 Studio, One, Two and Three Bedroom serviced apartments, and is an ideal choice for the business and leisure traveller.

Visit questdandenongcentral.com.au or call (03) 8710 5700

12342761-HM11-17

29 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

BUSINESS SOUTH-EAST

Women’s careers are tough work

By Casey Neill Two strong, successful women spoke out about busting gender barriers at a Springvale breakfast.

Jennifer Osbourne and Yassmin Abdel-Magied were guests at the Showcasing Women in Business breakfast at Highways on Thursday 9 March which marked International Women’s Day. “Today’s theme is women pushing the boundaries,” SEBN manager Sandra George said.

“You’re all outstanding women.

“Believe in yourselves, encourage and support other women and have the confidence to have a go and don’t ever be afraid to be smart.”

Ms Osbourne, the Organic Growers Group (OGG) manager, started out as a primary school teacher.

“I guess you’d call me a late bloomer,” she said.

She became a retail greengrocer and then a link between farmers and retailers.

“Little did I realise at the time that I was slipping into a boys club,” she said.

Ms Osbourne survived bullying at the hands of a man in her first role and moved on to OGG owned and run by women.

“I’d finally found somewhere to put my drive and ambition,” she said.

“My job is to procure the produce and schedule it for arrival in time to sell.”

One farmer told her that the best thing about dealing with OGG was no testosterone, “just good old-fashioned common sense”.

But on the other side, she’s found that a male boss who makes a tough decision is praised as a great manager.

“In my experience, when a female makes such a call, she’s just a bitch,” she said.

She also recalled upsetting a young male trader.

“He puffed his chest, faced up to me and raised his fist,” she said.

“I had to call his bluff.”

Since then she’s laughed off criticism and spent

Yassmin Abdel-Magied speaks at the SEBN Showcasing Women in Business breakfast. less time and energy worrying about what others think.

“Don’t expect them to like you - you have to be tough,” she said.

“That became my biggest challenge.

“I’m a marshmallow.

“I’ve had to toughen up.”

Ms Abdel-Magied dreamed of becoming a Formula One driver after watching movie Catch That Kid at age 13.

“But I’m a Sudanese woman who likes to eat,

that wasn’t going to happen,” she said.

“I could design the car.”

She was one of seven girls and 300 boys in her mechanical engineering course.

“I became one of the boys because that’s how I knew how to survive,” she said.

“I had no woman in any senior position above me that could show me a different example.”

After university, she spent a year in the UK following her Formula One dream but returned to Australia and landed a job on oil and gas rigs.

“I was the first girl they hired in my department in Australia, which was odd because it was 2012,” she said.

“I tried to be one of the boys.”

But they were quick to point out that she wasn’t one.

Ms Abdel-Magied spoke about marginalisation of women in the workplace.

She’d walk onto a rig and the boys would be told “no more swearing, there’s a woman present”.

It highlighted her difference and told others they had to adjust their behaviour when she was around.

She would be handed the pen to take minutes in meetings, and she’d be asked if she was married while a man alongside her was asked about his career experience.

“You are seen first as a woman and not an engineer,” she said.

Ms Abdel-Magied voiced ideas that were ignored, but then adopted minutes later after being raised by a man.

When she walks onto a rig, people expect that she can’t drill a hole until she proves she can.

“Men are deemed competent unless proven otherwise,” she said.

“Women are deemed incompetent unless proven otherwise.”

One of her latest projects is Mumtaza, which means ‘she’s excellent’ in Arabic and is an organisation about empowering women of colour.

Ms Abdel-Magied urged her audience to utilise sponsorship - to ask for help to open doors they can’t open themselves.

“And who can you sponsor? What privilege do you have?” she said.

“Never underestimate the impact a single individual - you - can make.

“Each and every one of you have the capacity to change the world around you.

“Embrace that, lean into it and good luck.”

The next SEBN Showcasing Women in Business event will be a lunch on Tuesday 27 June.

Rocky road to global success

Bombardier workers celebrate the completion of the 50th E-Class tram. 165488

Job is done: now more tram and train orders please

By Casey Neill “It brings tears to my eyes to see us reach such a big achievement.”

Bombardier welding co-ordinator Con Sakellaridis started working on the E-Class tram project in Dandenong in June 2011, “right at the beginning of the design stage”.

On Tuesday 28 February he joined his colleagues in celebrating the 50th E-Class tram completed for the Melbourne rail network.

“I’m very, very proud actually,” Mr Sakellaridis said.

Bombardier needs more tram and train orders 30 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

to secure work for Mr Sakellaridis and his 400 colleagues.

The State Government initially ordered 50 trams from Bombardier in 2010 and in 2015 extended the contract by 20.

The 70th tram is due to be finished mid next year, as is the final Bombardier V/Line VLocity carriage.

Bombardier Australia managing director Andrew Dudgeon told workers he was in negotiations with the State Government and hoped to announce more work soon.

In particular, he’s pushing for a further order for 40 to 80 E-Class trams.

Mr Dudgeon said the vehicle’s design was always evolving and that trams 51 to 70 would have a new driver cabin.

“All of you are responsible for what you see behind me today,” he said, gesturing to tram number 50.

“It’s a lot of hard work, but we have a very happy customer.”

Each E-Class tram can carry more than 200 passengers when full and has state-of-the-art audio and visual passenger information, air-conditioning, a low floor, improved safety features and dedicated spaces for passengers with mobility aids or prams.

Franz Madlener will share the successes and failures from his 30 years in business at a Sandhurst event.

He’ll be the guest speaker at the first Greater Dandenong Chamber Business Awards breakfast for the year at Sandhurst Golf Club on Wednesday 29 Franz Madlener will be March. the guest speaker at the Mr Madle- next Greater Dandenong ner has been a Chamber of Commerce non-executive breakfast. director of Dandenong Market since October 2012 and is the former CEO and franchisor behind one of Australia’s fastest growing food and coffee brands, Bonbons Bakery.

Under his leadership, the number of stores grew from two to 22 in just 18 months and Bonbons picked up multiple awards for its cakes, pies and coffee along the way.

Mr Madlener is also the former founder and CEO of the Villa and Hut Group, which he built up from one store in Cheltenham to a global brand employing more than 2000 people.

He was a Westfield retail executive, an Ernst and Young Australian Entrepreneur of the Year finalist, a top 10 finalist in Australia’s Top Retail Executive awards and more.

Mr Madlener ran his first marathon when he was 42 and by age 48 had completed 10 marathons and ultra-marathons and competed in two Iron Man challenges.

He currently works as a start-up investor and business mentor to help bring people’s ideas to market.

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

The grass is greener with Stihl

By Narelle Coulter Lawns all over Melbourne are kept in immaculate condition thanks to the team at the Stihl Shop Dandenong.

Owners Daniel and Alison Janecic sell and service lawn mowers from customers Melbourne-wide, many of whom work in Dandenong.

“Dandenong is such a hub,” explained Daniel.

“We do jobs from places like Ringwood and Altona because a lot of our customers come into Dandenong to work.

“They drop their gear in on a Monday and all pick it up again on a Friday.

“Saturday we are a little quieter here whereas our Hallam store is really busy on the weekend.”

Daniel, Alison and their team sell Stihl mowers, chainsaws, brush cutters, demolition saws, blowers and pressure washers along with popular brands of push mowers and ride-on lawn mowers.

They also sell and service American brand Toro, known for its professional and domestic ride-on and push mowers.

The busy servicing arm of the business handles all brands of mowers and outdoor power equipment.

It’s an industry they both love.

“I’ve always enjoyed this field,” said Daniel, a mechanic with more than 20 years’ experience.

“It’s the problem solving, setting people up with the right tool for the right job and the satisfaction of a job well done.

“We’ve got a lot of great customers, too, which makes it nice and easy. Some of the regulars I’ve been seeing for over 20 years now.”

He and Alison owned the Springvale Mower Mart in Springvale Road before relocating the business to bigger premises in Dandenong five years ago.

A year and half ago they took on a second Stihl store in Hallam.

Stihl, said Daniel, is known for its reliability and quality.

“Everybody knows the brand. Everyone’s had it

Stihl Shop Dandenong owner Daniel Janecic. 165262 in their family, their father’s had it, their grandfather’s had it. It gets passed down from generation to generation,” he said.

“At the end of the day you are paying for a quality product, which is a German made product.”

He admits many new customers have already tried cheaper products before searching out a proven brand like Stihl.

“Everyone wants quality, which is why they come to us. They’ve been to Bunnings and Masters and bought all the cheap stuff. They buy that once and then come to us to get the decent product.

“That’s human nature, that’s the way it works.

People see a cheap price and think it’s a bargain. Ten minutes later it’s not a bargain anymore.”

Daniel practises what he preaches. His own

y a D y r e Ev R O F E U L VA Every

home shed is stocked with “everything that opens and shuts”. All of it Stihl, of course.

He advises people to regularly service their chainsaws and mowers to extend their life expectancy.

Stihl Shop Dandenong is at 37-39 Cheltenham Road, Dandenong. Phone 9792 0068 or visit www. stihlshopdandenong.com.au

Blower BG 56

$269

R E N E D R A G

Everayy!

D

+ FREE VAC KIT

*

Grass Trimmer

Everayy!

D

$179

HS 45-450

Everayy!

D

$299

12341009-11-17

FS 38

Hedge Trimmer

Stihl Shop Dandenong 37 - 39 Cheltenham Road DANDENONG 3175 Ph: 03 9792 0068 *Whilst stocks last.

31 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

SPORT Girls show they’re on their game

By David Nagel It’s no secret that female participation in football is on the rise but six young umpires from the South East Juniors have blown the whistle on an exciting opportunity that now exists in the sport.

For 18-year-olds Sarah Brooks and Aimee Johnston, 19-year-olds Jaimie Collard and Stephanie Girardo, Sarah Vanderschoot, 20, and Jessica Prime, 22, the umpiring world is at their feet after they were selected as 20 of the most promising female umpires in the state.

All six girls, who started and continue to strut their stuff in the SEJ, have been participating in the AFL Victoria Field Umpiring Academy run by AFL umpire Mat Nicholls at IKON Park.

The academy is designed to give the girls the elite training required to take their officiating to the next level.

For Jaimie Collard the progression to the academy started from very humble beginnings.

“I was at my brother’s games and just thought I’d get some extra fitness for my netball, and to earn some money on the side was just a bonus,” she said.

“I did my first game as boundary umpire when I was 11, it was pouring rain and I got told to just blow my whistle and run.

“From there it went to field umpiring, and it felt different because all of a sudden you’re in control of the game after watching it for so many years.”

Umpiring has been in the blood of Stephanie Girardo for just about her entire life.

“My dad umpires, my brothers, uncles and cousins as well, so family was my main reason for joining,” she said.

“I umpired for a while and then played footy for a year. I was no good at playing so got involved

Jessica Prime has made giant strides in just three years of umpiring Australian Rules football.

The fresh face of football. Field umpires from left, Jaimie Collard, Sarah Brooks, Aimee Johnston, Stephanie Girardo and Sarah Vanderschoot are rising through the ranks. 165711 Pictures: DAVID NAGEL in umpiring again.

“There’s a great sense of accomplishment when you’ve had a good game.”

Stephanie said that since joining the academy she didn’t have to look far for a role model.

“Annie (Mirabile) did the first game of AFL Women’s and she came from the same academy as we did,” she explained.

“Jaimie and I were there when she came through and it made us realise that anything is

New coach pulls in the big men to bolster Doves Putting a settled line-up on the park will be the biggest challenge for new Doveton coach Aaron Davey after the club secured some top-line talent during the off-season.

The Doves have bolstered their big-man department with the return of Frank D’Agostino and become more potent in front of goal with former Essendon livewire Alwyn Davey joining Clayton McCartney from Rumbalara in the Murray League as a dangerous duo at the feet of new key forward Taylor Joyce.

Now all the Doves need to do is keep their cattle on the park.

After a five-year hiatus the Doves have played finals football for the last two years despite a highturnover of players. They used 45 players when finishing fifth in 2015 before using a South East Football Netball League-high 48 players on their way to finishing fourth last year - bundled out on both occasions by Beaconsfield in the elimination final.

Reigning premier Cranbourne required just 34 players last year with 13 playing every game for the season. By comparison the Doves had just one - Jordan Temopoulos. It’s a massive discrepancy and one that Davey and new fitness coach Geoff Collie will be keen to address as preparations build for 2017.

The Doves showed signs of life against the topthree last year, defeating Narre Warren twice, but were non-competitive in all four outings against grand finalists Cranbourne and Berwick. The recruitment of Joyce is a massive boost for the Doves, highly-competitive through the midfield in recent seasons but unable to convert in front of goal.

Shannon Henwood (22 goals) topped the goalscoring last year, the highest total in the last three seasons after Mitch Pierce (21 in 2015) and Simon Black (18 in 2014) led the charts beforehand.

Joyce - a tall, strong, clean-marking forward who played in Beaconsfield’s 2014 premiership before joining Noble Park last year - has the talent to be the Doves’ first forward to kick 50 goals since Danny Cassett (89) way back in 2005.

Davey’s coaching support cast this season will consist of Chris Rodriquez (Reserves) and Nathan Wilson (Under 19s) while Graham Henwood will assume the role of director of coaching.

The Doves open their 2017 SEFNL campaign with a home game against Officer on 1 April ahead of a Good Friday visit to Hampton Park on Friday 14 April.

36 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

possible ... we can get there.

“I just love football and I like being involved, I can’t sit on the outside and do nothing, and being right smack-bang in the middle is the best place to be.”

Jessica Prime explained her knowledge of the rules when she took up umpiring three years ago.

“I didn’t know much at all, I was a good runner but I used to go the footy and mark the record and not pay much attention but now I watch the umpires and the players really closely,” she said.

“It’s just great to get out there, and especially now that there’s more girls getting involved, I really like that, it’s not just a boy dominated sport anymore and the girls are coming in and that’s something we should all be proud of.

“And umpiring is like a family, there’s a lot of team-work involved and we have to work together, field, boundary and goal umpires.”

SEJ Umpiring and Female Participation Manager Rod Hamilton said the girls are on the right track.

“I know they said they don’t have aspirations to go higher, but they’ll reach that level by doing what they’re doing and without even realising,” he said.

“They’re umpiring TAC games for the girls over the next month, at Punt Road, at IKON, so they’re already umpiring the best girls in the country.”

Hamilton said the opportunity was there for boys and girls from the area to also make their mark.

“Our oldest umpire is 83 and we’ll take anyone from 11 up,” he said.

Those interested in umpiring can register on the SEJ website, call Rod on 5995 0555 or get in touch at umpiring@southeastjuniors.com.au

Fracture clash kills big break

By Russell Bennett

Doveton is primed for a big season under new coach Aaron Davey. 152108

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Endeavour Hills product Andrew Bogut was set to get the chance to become the first Aussie in history to win NBA championships with two different franchises - until fate intervened.

It seems like just yesterday that LeBron James held the Larry O’Brien trophy aloft for the first time as a Cleveland Cavalier, and Bogut had the chance to do the same but last week - less than a minute into his first game with the franchise - he suffered a fractured tibia in a freak clash of legs.

The seven-footer had signed with Cleveland, the great modern day rival of his former franchise the Golden State Warriors, after clearing waivers following his buyout from the Philadelphia 76ers.

It had already been an action-packed period for Bogut, too, since being a part of the Warriors franchise that relinquished a 3-1 NBA Finals lead to go down to the Cavaliers in seven games - handing longsuffering Cleveland fans their first major sporting title of any description in 52 years.

Bogut was then a key component of the Golden State trade with the Dallas Mavericks that helped the bay area franchise free up enough salary cap space to sign MVPwinning superstar Kevin Durant to become part of a three-headed monster with ‘Splash Brothers’ Steph Curry and Klay Thompson.

But now, with his season over, the 32-year-old will be waived by the Cavaliers and is expected to return to Australia to complete his rehabilitation.

Various reports in the United States suggest he’ll opt against having surgery on his fractured left tibia.

Sport

Class everywhere in the DDCA Team of the Year Before the start of the DDCA finals on the weekend, NICK CREELY chose his Team of the Year in Turf 1 for 2016/17.

1.

Matthew Hague (Dingley) - 11 matches, 507 runs at 46.1, Highest Score: 136 What an absolutely stellar first season in the DDCA it was for Hague. Coming in from South Australia, the classy opening batsman played some vital knocks in what was an exciting debut for the Dingoes. He made three half-centuries and a terrific century in just 11 innings.

2.

Ian Daniel (Mordialloc) - 11 matches, 438 runs at 39.8, HS 102, 25 wickets at 12.0, Best Bowling: 5/18 After another brilliant individual season, Daniel is Mordialloc’s most important player in their finals campaign. On a statistical front, he scored four half-centuries and a brutal century, as well as taking a five-wicket-haul with his seamers.

3.

Janaka Liyanabadalge (Narre Warren) - 10 matches, 561 runs at 43.2, HS 83, 10 wickets at 30.4, BB 3/19 In a truly tough season for the Magpies, Liyanabadalge was a constant shining light. The classy middle-order batsman played some outstanding knocks in low team totals, and always came in under the pump. Towards the end of the year he also started to ramp up his bowling, taking vital wickets and bowling long spells.

4.

Matthew Chasemore (Cranbourne)11 matches, 539 runs at 67.4, HS 148, 15 wickets at 24.0, BB 4/34 The reigning Wookey Medalist and one of Victoria’s most elite club cricketers is a chance to go back-to-back this season, such is his dominance over the competition. He made four half-centuries and one century, as well as chiming in with a wicket per game. His Twenty20 form, in particular, was extraordinary, scoring four centuries in this format over the course of the year.

5.

Steven Spoljaric (Cranbourne)- 11 matches, 681 runs at 85.1, HS 158, 25 wickets at 18.4, BB 5/19 Unbelievably, 2016/17 is among Steve Spoljaric’s best seasons of all with three centuries in total, and another two half-centuries. With the ball, Spoljaric was once again among the top of the wickets in the competition, with a five-wickethaul earlier in the year his best performance.

6.

Jarrod Armitage (Berwick)- 10 matches, 395 runs at 39.5, HS 113, 27 wickets at 16.2, BB 6/27 Armitage started his debut season with the Bears with two successive Turf 1 centuries, and he flourished with the ball - bowling some seriously quick spells, and being part of one of the best bowling attacks in the competition.

7.

Craig Slocombe (Springvale South) 11 matches, 289 runs at 28.9, HS 82, 20 wickets at 10.0, BB 5/7 One of the DDCA’s greatest ever cricketers, Slocombe had a terrific season captaining the Bloods. He was handy with the bat, and made a match-winning 82 in the last round, but it was his bowling that was mind-boggling. Against Dandy West earlier in the season, he took 5/7 from 15 overs, and became one of the trickiest slower

Steven Spoljaric has well and truly earned selection in our DDCA Turf 1 Team of the Year. 164561 Picture: GARY SISSONS ley)- 11 matches, 137 runs at 22.8, HS 37, 26 bowlers to face in the competition.

8.

Brodie Yapp (HSD, keeper) - 10 wickets at 17.6, BB 6/44 matches, 214 runs at 23.8, HS 51, 11 catches, The underrated Dingoes spinner is a star, three run-outs and one stumping. bowling almost 200 overs for the season with The Cobras’ keeper had a consistent season an excellent strike-rate of 45.5. What was most with the gloves and bat, averaging a catch a game with his clean glove-work. Yapp wasn’t as promi- impressive about his season was his unrelenting nent with the bat post-Christmas, but still made accuracy, and his ability to chime in with handy runs in the tail. over 200 runs for the season.

9.

Jarrod Goodes (Berwick)- 11 match11. Stuart Squires (Mordialloc) - 11 es, 214 runs at 23.8, HS 54, 27 wickets at 12.4, matches, 148 runs at 24.7, HS 44, 31 wickets at BB 4/18 11.8, BB 5/39 Statistics don’t quite do justice to Goodes’ The spearhead of the Bloodhounds is definiteimpact as skipper of the Bears. He bowled over ly not a tail-ended batsman, but has to be in the 150 overs for the season at an elite economy of 2.2, and partnered with James Wilcock and Jarrod team. He is arguably the competition’s best bowler alongside Spoljaric, and has been a major player Armitage, formed a tremendous bowling trio.

10. Jasenthuliyana Chathuranga (Ding- in the club’s rise into premiership contention.

Eagles defeat ends horror week

By Nicholas Creely NPL2 EAST REVIEW - ROUND 6 A tough week for the Springvale White Eagles has compounded with a disappointing 3-1 loss to Sunshine George FC on Saturday afternoon.

After the FFV deducted two competition points from the Eagles and the Dandenong Thunder due to supporter misconduct last round, a decision that could be challenged in the coming days, the Eagles relinquished their top-spot on the NPL2 East ladder as a result.

It has caused a lot of controversy throughout the week, with an independent tribunal ruling that both clubs failed to control their crowds after a brawl erupted during the second-half of last week’s clash, causing the game to be halted for over ten minutes.

The Georgies were on the board early through Jagajeet in the first five-minutes, and never really looked back as an obviously disappointed Eagles side could not overcome the challenges of the week.

Dandenong Thunder has crushed Northcote City FC 4-2, as star striker Brandon Barnes notched up his half-century of goals in the NPL for Dandy.

Starting the round out in fourth spot after losing two points during the week, the Thunder responded in brutal fashion, and against a powerful opposition looking to make a statement.

The Thunder were electric with their movement early, and it took to just the 15-minute mark before Veton Koraci converted a slick right-footer into the net to give them an early advantage.

Only a minute later, Barnes got into the act, converting his first of the match via some excellent defensive pressure and slipping out into space.

And the City hit back like quality sides do, converting a goal after some clumsy defense from the Thunder, pegging the score back to 2-1 with plenty of time to play in the first-half.

But it took just five minutes after the half-time break before Barnes slotted goal fifty, before City hit back only moments later to leave them hopeful at 3-2.

But Korcari sealed the deal after some slick work from Barnes, converting a goal in the 70th minute to put to bed any chance of a comeback from the City.

Dandy City was scheduled to play their match against Ballarat City on Sunday 12 March at 6pm, after the Journal goes to print.

The City will host Nunawading City FC on Friday 24 March, the Thunder play Murray United while the Springvale White Eagles host Melbourne City FC.

Rangers can’t douse Flames but still not extinguished

By Nicholas Creely One thing is for certain, the electric crowd packed into Brydens Stadium certainly got their money’s worth, because the Rangers and Flames sure played out an epic.

In game one of the WNBL grand final series on Saturday night, the Dandenong Rangers threw everything they had at Sydney, but were ultimately overcome by a narrow margin.

The final score-line read 82-91 but it was a game that was never over until the last 20 seconds, such was the turns and twists that usually accompany a grand final.

It was an action packed an exciting opening term, with the Flames taking a narrow four-point margin into the first-break.

The occasion didn’t seem to unsettle either side, who were playing quality basketball and at a fast-pace.

The second-term saw the first twist of the night with the Rangers wrestling back some con-

trol, mostly through the exploits of their star Sara Blicavs, and taking a narrow lead into the majorbreak.

A bit of cat-and-mouse started to creep into the tactics of both sides, with scoring slowing down slightly after the major break, but it was the Flames who were able to convert some ice-cool three-point shots to gain some ascendency.

And in a pulsating last-term, in which time seemed to be slowing down, both sides traded blows, fatigue set in but the will to win never diminished.

The Flames burnt the court early in the finalterm, with back-to-back baskets showing signs they could potentially run amok at strip the game away from the grasp of the Rangers.

But that’s when things tightened up defensively from the Rangers, who chipped away at the slender deficit and started to once again find it on their terms.

But ultimately the Flames found a way to win, with Leilani Mitchell draining an incredible

three-point shot with just 40 seconds left to play.

And despite a late scramble, the Flames were just too strong on their home deck.

Sara Blicavs was a dominant force, finishing with 25 points and eight rebounds in another commanding display, while fellow teammates Steph Cumming (16 points) and import Nat Novosel (14 points) had strong showings.

But it was the class of Alex Wilson (22 points, six rebounds and five assists) that shone brightest for the Flames, while a strong all-round game

by Mitchell (15 points and six assists) was vitally important.

Game two heads down to Dandenong on Friday night, with the Rangers looking to put behind their disappointment of the loss.

The Rangers have a strong home-ground record, and will be desperate to ensure the grand final stays alive until game three.

Steph Cumming and her Rangers will need to bounce back on Friday. 165634 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS 37 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

Sport

Rangers amongst WNBL elite

By David Nagel The grand final preparations of Dandenong Rangers pair Sara Blicavs and Steph Cumming received a major boost last week with both finishing top-10 in the WNBL Most Valuable Player Award.

Blicavs finished in equal-fifth place, polling 73 votes, three clear of Cumming but well behind the eventual winner, Townsville Fire centre Suzy Batkovic, who won a record fifth award.

Batkovic polled 129 votes to finish six clear of Perth Lynx excitement-machine Sami Whitcomb with Marianna Tolo from the Canberra Capitals filling the placings.

Coaches and referees name a 3-2-1 vote at the conclusion of every game throughout the regular season with those ballots then totalled to find the MVP. It is Batkovic’s second consecutive MVP award and her fifth in the past six seasons, having won two as a member of the Adelaide Lightning (2012, 13) and now three with Townsville (2014, 16, 17), surpassing Lauren Jackson’s previous record of four.

I’m really blown away,” Batkovic said.

“I’m extremely honoured to receive the award.

You never go (into a season) thinking about it or trying to earn it, it’s just about playing consistently and doing what I can to help the team.”

Sitting second for points and rebounds per game in the league at the end of the regular season, Batkovic averaged 21.3 points and 10.7 boards across 24 games, one of only two players to average a double-double for the season.

It was her highest point production since 2011/12 and the fifth season in which she finished with a double-double average while the centre led her team in total blocks (30) and finished second for steals (23).

She won three Player of the Week awards during the season (the most of any player) and was named in nine Team of the Week’s (second most) while also being named the December Player of the Month.

MAJOR SERVICE & TUNE-UP

99

$ 99** incInc GST GST

0

1 $1

1217432-RC08-16 1124822-CB12-14

INCLUDING: INCLUDING: • Engine oil change 5 Ltr

*4WD, vans, 8cyl, special oil & imported vehicles may cost extra

It was during that time that Batkovic led Townsville’s charge up the ladder and into a playoff position as she averaged a double-double of 23.8 points, 14 rebounds with three assists across four consecutive victories.

The Fire then finished the regular season winning nine of their last 12 games, with Batkovic

leading from the front as Townsville’s captain, reaching the post-season for a sixth straight year before they fell in the Semi-Finals.

“There were positives to take out of the season as well as some negatives [but] with a new coach and a pretty new team I thought we learnt a lot and now we have to build and keep working,” Bat-

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

kovic said.

“This club is so professional on and off the floor and everyone is on the same page which is huge. I know this club inside out so I have no doubt the Fire will come back next year stronger and chase finals again.”

Thompson continues to go from strength to strength

FREE 25 POINT SERVICE

• Check transmission oil level •฀Engine฀oil฀change฀5฀Ltr • Oil filter change •฀Check฀transmission฀oil฀level • Check differential oil level • Inspect Spark Plugs •฀Oil฀ilter฀change • Inspect fuel lines •฀Check฀differential฀oil฀level • New contact points • Grease front end •฀Inspect฀Spark฀Plugs • New wiper blades •฀Inspect฀fuel฀lines • Check all tyres • Check hoses and clamps •฀New฀contact฀points • Inspect brake pads and discs • Pressure test cooling system •฀Grease฀front฀end • Inspect front & rear suspension • Check & adjust all fan belts •฀New฀wiper฀blades • Inspect steering system •฀Check฀all฀tyres • Check PVC Valves •฀Check฀hoses฀and฀clamps • Inspect exhaust system • Inspect battery •฀Inspect฀brake฀pads฀and฀discs • Inspect all seat belts • Inspect charging system •฀Pressure฀test฀cooling฀system • Check all lights • Check clutch operation •฀Inspect฀front฀&฀rear฀suspension •฀Check฀&฀adjust฀all฀fan฀belts • Full mechanical & electrical report • Road test •฀Inspect฀steering฀system •฀Check฀PVC฀Valves •฀Inspect฀exhaust฀system •฀Inspect฀battery •฀Inspect฀all฀seat฀belts •฀Inspect฀charging฀system •฀Check฀all฀lights •฀Check฀clutch฀operation •฀Full฀mechanical฀&฀electrical฀report •฀Road฀test

Steph Cumming and Sarah Blicavs listen intently to coah Larissa Anderson. Both finished top-10 in the WNBL MVP Award. 163898

Jason Thompson continued his incredibly hot run of form at Sandown Park on Thursday night.

Thompson had five runners engaged on the night and went home with four winners. It followed his stellar night at The Meadows on Saturday with six wins from nine runners engaged - 10 metropolitan wins from 14 runners for the week.

“To have different dogs to win that amount of races is a great result,” said Thompson.

Of Thursday night’s four he said Aston Dee Bee and Extreme Magic were the highlights.

“Aston Dee Bee and Extreme Magic were very good. They’re not seasoned Group dogs but they’re both young and have some group racing experience,“ he said.

Both will head to Wentworth Park’s Golden Easter Egg series later this month. His first and last winners for the night, Aston Selena and Nature’s Gent, will target the $410,000 group 2 Launching Pad. Thompson is one of the country’s most successful trainers and has three TAB Melbourne Cups among an incredibly long list of achieve-

Jason Thompson continued his red-hot form at Sandown Park on Thursday night. ments. Despite enjoying success at the highest levels over a long period of time, he says the thrill of training a winner doesn’t change.

“I don’t care if I’m winning a group race at Sandown or going to Sale or Healesville for a Maiden, the thrill is the same,“ he said.

With only 20 greyhounds in his kennel, it underlines the significance of his recent achievements. He boasts a 40-percent winning strike rate across Victoria and 30-percent at Sandown Park.

“We’ve got 20 dogs in work, that’s the number we can cope with really well and enjoy doing,“ he said.

“We’re able to give every dog the attention they need and more importantly race them wherever they need to be raced. I don’t care if it’s Shepparton, Healesville, Sale, Warrnambool, Sandown or The Meadows wherever it is I’ll go there.“ Thompson has had some of the finest greyhounds pasd through his kennel but believes his current crop of dogs is the strongest he’s ever had.

“I’m in the kennels now looking through and I don’t think we’ve ever had a stronger team. We work hard but we’re also very lucky.“

12342420-CG11-17

WHAT’S ON this week

Proud supporter

Indoor Beach Volleyball Social Competitions FOR ALL AGES AND LEVELS OF EXPERIENCE Indoor Beach Volleyball Mixed,฀Men’s฀and฀Women’s฀teams฀฀•฀฀Teams฀of฀Pairs:฀Wed฀&฀Fri฀Evenings Teams฀of฀Fours:฀Tue฀to฀Thurs฀Evenings

State฀Volleyball฀Centre฀270฀Stud฀Rd฀Dandenong฀North www.volleyballvictoria.com.au PH:฀9794฀0009

Dandenong Stadium - 270 Stud Road Dandenong 3175 Phone: 9794 7192 38 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 13 March, 2017

Open Mon – Sun 9am – 11pm