Dandenong Journal Star - 08th May 2017

8 May 2017

3

A Star News Group Publication

Family tries to piece life back together

SPORT

Goals - the lost art in modern day football

Police cordon off the area.

Picture: GARY SISSONS

■ Shooting death outrage follows residents’ crime warning…

Fatal shots of fear

By Casey Neill Keysborough residents will see more police on their streets following a fatal shooting last week.

Inspector Mark Langhorn said he’d be “ramping up our presence significantly”.

“Obviously, the community’s in a lot of fear,” he said. “We’re still trying to work out who it was and what it was about.”

The shooting in Church Road on Tuesday 2 May killed a 22-year-old Keysborough man and injured two others.

Homicide Squad detectives believe a dark-coloured four-wheel drive or similar type of vehicle left the scene and urged anyone with information to come forward.

They said six men aged in their twenties were in a garage at a home on the street about 9.55pm and one man was leaving via a laneway when several shots were fired.

The deceased was shot in the chest and died at the scene.

A Keysborough man, 23, was also shot in the arm and a 22-year-old, also from Keysborough, was shot in the leg.

They were both taken to hospital in a stable condition.

The shooting was the latest in a string of crimes in the area, residents told the Journal, including drug raids and robberies.

Last December they presented a petition signed by 290 people to Greater Dandenong

Council asking it to address a crime rise in Keysborough South.

The council addressed the request through a report to its Monday 24 April meeting.

The petition urged the council to take five steps to tackle the problems, including increasing its lobbying efforts for more police.

It agreed to continue to work with Victoria Police and the State Government on the request.

The petition also called on the council to install CCTV at the entrance points to key estates to help deter and identify criminals.

The council said there was no provision in its planning schemes to install CCTV in local streets and suggested residents could set up CCTV on private property.

Funding security patrols to detect and deter criminals was not on the table either, the council said, but residents could join Neighbourhood Watch.

The council organised the Keysborough South Community Safety Forum on Thursday 16 March in response to another petition item, bringing together police, residents, MPs and councillors.

And in response to a request for regular resident updates, the council will hold periodic ward forums.

Anyone who has information about the shooting should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

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State Budget

In Brief Five-times lucky thief hits store

Transport jobs secured but still no new school

By Casey Neill The $529.2 million tram and train order in the State Budget will secure jobs at Dandenong manufacturer Bombardier and its south-east suppliers.

But the Tuesday 2 May announcement of the State Government’s 2017-18 financial plan brought Keysborough residents little joy.

Keysborough South Action Group (KSAG) spokeswoman Nina Kelly said the budget confirmed funding to build a new primary school in Keysborough South was effectively on hold.

“This leaves 2800-odd school-aged children, their families and the wider community in the new estates with no security of a safe walkable public primary school in the area,” she said.

Ms Kelly said the Department of Education and Training (DET) had not acted fast enough to secure a site for the school.

“The land acquisition funding was provided in the 2016-17 State Budget,” she said.

She said it was important that the five-year school infrastructure pipeline suggested by Infrastructure Victoria’s 30-year strategy was implemented urgently and publicly available.

“We still don’t know if our two-year-olds will have a school to start in for 2020 or we will have to wait for 2022 for children not even born,” she said.

Keysborough MP and Attorney-General Martin Pakula said the government remained com-

Bombardier workers celebrating their 50th E-Class tram in February. mitted to a new primary school for Keysborough South.

“Negotiations for the purchase of land are taking longer than expected and funding for construction will be allocated in a future budget,” he said.

“I can understand parents’ frustration and I have offered to meet with the Keysborough South Action Group to discuss next steps.

“The new primary school is not in doubt and we will push for funding for construction to be provided as soon as possible.”

At Bombardier, workers were to finish their current VLocity train carriage and E-Class tram orders by the middle of next year.

The budget included $218.1 million to fund 10 trams and associated infrastructure, bringing the total E-Class order to 80, and $311.1 million for 39 new VLocity carriages, adding to 48 already funded.

Spokeswoman Loulou Hammad said the new orders would provide work into 2019.

She said there were options in the E-Class tram contract for further orders, depending on network requirements.

Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said the investment would support 500 jobs at Bombardier and local suppliers, and ensure ongoing opportunities for young workers and those re-skilling from other industries.

She said the investment funded a major VLocity re-design to enable them to run on long-haul services.

“Dandenong is the engine room of Victoria, manufacturing products that are well known and loved by Victorians,” she said.

“This investment is a vote of confidence in a great local product.”

Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry acting chief executive Bryce Prosser also welcomed the orders.

“Significant investments in our transport network and infrastructure will benefit all Victorians, with improved connectivity, increased productivity and more reliable public transport available around the state,” he said.

Roads and at-risk families are State Budget winners

By Casey Neill Greater Dandenong will benefit from State Budget cash for automotive industry workers, family violence, schools and roads, local MPs say.

The State Government revealed its 2017-18 budget on Tuesday 2 May. Keysborough MP Martin Pakula highlighted a $1.4 million upgrade to Keysborough’s Springvale and Governor roads intersection and $81.1 million for the Ice Action Plan’s third stage.

“More police officers will be deployed to the south-east to tackle crime and we’re stepping up the fight against ice and drug addiction with a huge investment in early intervention and treatment places,” he said.

Industry and Employment Minister Wade Noonan visited the Nissan Casting plant in Dandenong on Wednesday 3 May to spruik $10 million for the Local Industry Fund for Transition (LIFT) and $5 million to the Future Industries Manufacturing Program (FIMP).

Nissan Casting, which manufactures automotive componentry, received support from FIMP to create 14 new jobs and transition 27 roles.

The grant will help the company to buy and install new equipment and develop the next generation of electric vehicle powertrain inverter components and water jacket assembly for export.

That project is expected to generate an extra $39 million in export revenue over four years.

Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams and Industry and Employment Minister Wade Noonan visited Nissan Casting workers on Wednesday.

Mr Noonan said LIFT and FIMP were creating new jobs and opportunities for workers, businesses and communities affected by changes in the manufacturing sector.

Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said the budget confirmed that one of 17 Victorian Support and Safety Hubs would service Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia.

The hubs were a key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Family Violence.

They will serve as a visible contact point for survivors and give communities access to highly skilled workers with connections to the justice system and social services, including housing.

The south-east hub won’t be among the first five hubs rolled out during the next 12 months.

“A local safety hub in our area will provide vital protection and support for women and children fleeing violence,” Ms Williams said.

“For many victims, knowing they have somewhere safe to go will make all the difference.

“This is about building a new system that will prevent family violence, make perpetrators accountable and protect victim survivors.”

As reported in last week’s Journal, Lyndale Secondary College will receive $6 million towards stage two of its redevelopment.

The budget also contained cash for improvements at Chandler Park Primary School in Keysborough, Keysborough College, Dandenong High School, Noble Park Secondary College and Silverton Primary in Noble Park North.

Ms Williams said Dandenong and Doveton residents would benefit from a $1.876 million project to replace and repair damaged and ageing noise walls along the Monash Freeway and $89,000 for work on South Gippsland Freeway noise walls.

The work will be completed in 2017-18 and comes in response to residents’ concerns.

The budget included $21.8 million for language services to assist new migrants, including $2 million to establish Victoria’s first Migrant Workers Centre to prevent workers being exploited through under-payments and poor working conditions.

The centre will provide workers with information on their rights, wages and contracts.

A bicycle-riding bandit allegedly struck a Springvale hardware store five times.

Police are searching for the man, who they say entered the Springvale Road shop, concealed items under his clothing and left the store on a bike.

The first raid was on Sunday 22 January Police are searching and the stolen items for this man. are valued at more than $1200.

Police released CCTV images of a man they believe might be able to assist in their inquiries.

He is Caucasian in appearance, aged in his late thirties to early forties and 185 centimetres tall with a medium build and dark hair.

It is also believed he might have a tattoo on his left forearm.

Visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or call 1800 333 000 with any information.

Carjacker allegedly stabs victim A masked man dressed in black jumped into a car at Springvale’s busiest intersection, a woman alleges.

Greater Dandenong CIU Detective Senior Constable Brendan Fontana appealed for any witnesses to the Sunday 30 April incident to come forward.

The woman, 31, told police she was travelling west on Princes Highway in her blue Toyota Camry sedan and stopped at traffic lights at Centre and Springvale roads about 8.20pm.

She alleges a man dressed in black and wearing a face mask jumped into the driver’s seat and pushed her into the passenger seat and drove her car down to Huntingdale Road, stabbing her in the hand along the way.

The man, who had an African accent, according to the woman, had then fled the scene.

Det Sen Const Fontana urged anyone who saw the alleged carjacking to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Confiscated car is a drag An alleged drag race in Springvale has left two men without their cars.

Casey Highway Patrol members patrolling Princes Highway stopped at traffic lights at Corrigan Road about 12.45am on Saturday 29 April.

It’s alleged a Nissan Skyline and Mitsubishi GTO took off from the lights, travelling west on Princes Highway, and reached 145kmh in the 80 zone.

Police intercepted both cars and impounded them for 30 days.

The owners will each have to pay $917 in towing and storage costs to get them back.

The driver of the Mitsubishi, a 25-year-old Mornington man, and the driver of the Nissan, a 31-year-old Surfers Paradise man, are expected to be charged on summons for racing on a highway, driving at a dangerous speed, driving in a dangerous manner and careless driving.

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Family struggling after nightmare candle blaze

By Casey Neill Aussie generosity and her faith are getting Thalia Bhandari through her firey nightmare.

The Springvale mother rescued her four-yearold daughter, mother and brother from her burning View Road unit on Tuesday 2 May. “It hasn’t been easy,” she said of the days following the blaze.

She’s been staying in a hotel in Dandenong, turning to homeless service WAYSS for help and accepting food and clothing from the Red Cross.

“The Red Cross called me up and got us all two pairs of clothes each - two jackets, two pants and some shoes,” she said.

“They also got us some food for the next couple of days.”

The fire destroyed her identification.

“You even lose your identity,” she said.

“It’s really hard when you don’t have ID, people don’t trust you.

“I went to the police and told them what happened and obviously they knew about the fire.”

She wrote a statutory declaration and police provided her with her licence number.

“The bank has been really great,” she said.

She should have replacement bank cards by Friday.

“I’m just taking it day by day. I’m not making any plans,” Ms Bhandari said.

“I have lot of faith in God, and Australians are awesome people.

“They’re caring, they’re considerate and they’re willing to help.

“That’s getting me through.”

However her mother and brother are struggling.

“Emotionally they’re not good,” Ms Bhandari said.

“I’ve been the strongest one in this whole thing.

“My daughter, she’s still in shock.

“She’s still talking about the fire and saying ‘mummy our stuff’s all gone’.”

But the outcome of the fire, started by a candle, could have been much worse.

“We fell asleep about midnight,” she told the Journal.

“I woke up to the smell, and I quickly grabbed (my four-year-old daughter).

“I took her outside the house and then I went back in and got my mum out and my brother out as well.

Thalia outside the gutted unit. 167852 Picture: ROB CAREW

A family violence intervention service has joined Dandenong’s sexual crimes support hub.

From Wednesday 3 May, Relationships Australia Victoria (RAV) will provide co-ordinated interventions to family violence perpetrators at the Dandenong Multidisciplinary Centre (MDC).

The MDC was established in 2014 to provide a justice response and support service for survivors of sexual crimes.

Police Minister Lisa Neville announced on 21 April that the centre was expanding to include specialist family violence police and community service responses.

“All the smoke went in my throat, I couldn’t breathe properly.

“I thought I was going to die,” Ms Bhandari told the Journal.

“My mind was just ‘save everyone’ and I was prepared to die, really.

“Thanks to God, I made it.

“When you’re in that situation, you just want to save everyone.”

Ms Bhandari lit the candle because power to her unit had been cut on the morning of Monday 1 May during a switch between electricity providers.

The electricity company that caused the delay by mistakenly connecting to a different View Road ad-

dress offered her a night’s free accommodation in a hotel “but he forgot to text me the address so I didn’t know where to go” and she’s yet to follow up.

The family fell asleep about midnight and Ms Bhandari woke up to the smell of fire a short time later.

She grabbed her daughter and took her outside.

“Then I went back in and got my mum out and my brother out as well,” she said.

“All the smoke went in my throat, I couldn’t breathe properly.”

The Springvale and Dandenong CFA crews were called to the scene about 12.30am and arrived to find the unit “fairly extensively involved in fire”.

RAV’s specialist family violence practitioners will participate in case co-ordination meetings with Victoria Police, child protection and other services to prioritise the safety and protection of family violence, sexual assault and child abuse survivors.

They will also provide services to family violence perpetrators, including initial telephone contact via the Dandenong MDC and further case work at RAV centres in southern metropolitan Melbourne.

RAV said this approach would prevent further violence while ensuring the MDC remained a safe and confidential environment for survivors.

RAV has nearly 70 years’ experience in providing family and relationship support services, and is the largest provider of Men’s Behaviour Change Programs and family safety contact services in Victoria.

CEO Dr Andrew Bickerdike said RAV welcomed the opportunity to join the centre and provide important family violence support services.

“We look forward to collaborating with partner services at the Dandenong MDC to enhance family safety,“ he said.

“We will provide interventions for, and work with those who use violence, to take responsibility for changing their behaviour.”

Flares brought to police for safe keeping put Dandenong Police Station into lockdown.

Inspector Mark Langhorn said a man brought what he said were explosives into the Langhorne Street building about 10pm on Wednesday 3 May. “He thought it was gelignite but it turns out it was just flares, Insp Langhorn said.

The officers on duty sought advice from the Victoria Police Bomb Response Unit, initiated an evacuation and shut down the station.

Insp Langhorn said the incident didn’t impact any policing services aside from direct access to the station.

“We were still able to provide a service to the community,” he said.

“We encourage people to ring us first rather than bringing possible explosives into the station.

“We’re no experts!”

A man and woman used a stolen credit card to buy a $7499 fridge in Springvale, police allege.

They’re appealing for help to identify the couple, who Police are searching for attended the these people.

Princes Highway store about 5.30pm on Sunday 2 October last year.

The alleged thieves had the Samsung 671 litre family hub fridge delivered to an address in Footscray.

Police released CCTV images of a man and a woman they believe might be able to assist with their inquiries.

The man is perceived to be African in appearance and was wearing a black jacket, yellow Tshirt and grey-coloured cap.

The woman is perceived to be Caucasian with long black hair and was wearing a yellow top with a grey jacket and blue jeans.

Visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or call 1800 333 000 with any information.

Found with broken arm, leg Police are trying to figure out what happened to a man found on a Dandenong footpath with a broken leg and arm.

Greater Dandenong CIU Detective Senior Constable Brendan Fontana said the Sudanese man was found on Railway Parade near Carson Street at 2.09am on Saturday 29 April.

The intoxicated victim, from Dandenong, told police he’d been hit by a bat and someone had taken a girl.

He had a facture to his lower right leg and right upper arm and large bump on his head.

Det Sen Const Fontana said the fact his injuries were all on his right side pointed to a potential hit-run.

Police have been unable to determine exactly what led up to the injuries.

The victim was taken to The Alfred hospital and was in a stable condition.

Det Sen Const Fontana urged anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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Looking Back

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

100 years ago 10 May 1917 Dandenong Fire Brigade On 19 March, Chief officer T S Marshall inspected the Dandenong Fire Brigade, and it is satisfactory to know that the appended report is to hand, which is a credit to all concerned.

There was a very good muster for inspection, 12 members being present. Having lost so many members by enlistment, 19 past and present members, the majority on the roll is now made up of a good stamp of young men, keen and enthusiastic in their work.

Water pressure good. Fire Plugs adequate.

Equipment adequate.

50 years ago 9 May 1967 Alive through willpower - Viet Cong are amazing A 22-year-old man, who was in the first nation-

al service intake and spent 11 months working in a Vietnamese hospital where Viet Cong and Australian soldiers were treated alike, has returned to his home in Dandenong.

He is Private David Leslie Aurisch, who is spending leave with his parents at their home in Oswald Street before reporting to the Watsonia Army Barracks for discharge.

Pte Aurisch, a former salesman for a Melbourne menswear store, was drafted 22 months ago and assigned to the 2nd Field Ambulance Corp.

Following extensive training at Puckapunyal and Healesville he was flown to Vietnam and posted to the town of Vung Tao near Saigon.

A field hospital was immediately built to aid the Australian task force fighting nearby.

The hospital was later established on a permanent basis.

Pte Aurisch said conditions in Vietnam were extremely oppressive.

Weather was humid and torrential down-

pour made the medic’s job difficult.

He said the hospital’s biggest worry was not the Viet Cong but the weather.

Commenting on his trip to Vietnam he said “I’m certainly glad I went. It has made me more broadminded because I’ve seen how the other half live.

“However, it will take me a long time to readjust.”

20 years ago 12 May 1997 Inside story on golf day Dandenong Hospital has bought a state-ofthe-art, three chip camera for use in keyhole surgery with its share of the proceeds of this year’s City of Greater Dandenong annual golf day.

The day, organised through the Rotary Club of Dandenong Central and part sponsored by the Journal, raised $40,000.

The $17,000 camera allows surgeons’ unparalleled views of operation sites inside the body during laparoscopic surgery.

5 years ago 7 May 2012 Ripples over rate rise Two councillors are making a vigorous push to slash rates to help struggling Greater Dandenong ratepayers.

Last week Cr Peter Brown, backed by Cr Maria Sampey, was confident that councillors would rally around a reduced rise, down from proposed 5.5 per cent to about 4.5 per cent.

Cr Brown suggested cuts that “no one would miss” such as abandoning a $95,000 public art work scheme, halting $178,000 of wage rise to Drum Theatre staff and dropping $400,000 towards traffic lights at the corner of Robinson Street and Princes Highway, Dandenong.

Flushed with success after flood 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.

We stood at the foot of the hill with our bikes and our three dogs trying to get game enough to have a go. Doey or Drummo said we better do something pretty soon or it will be bloody well dark.

If they were going to get washed away and possibly drowned they would prefer it to be in daylight.

“If you’re gunna get drowned, what bloody difference does it make whether it’s daylight or bloody dark?

“You are just as bloody dead,” someone said nervously.

Almost with one voice we yelled “let’s go!”.

“What about the dogs,” someone asked.

JACK LOOKS

BACK JACK JOHNSON That stopped us in our tracks.

One of the more agitated of us said “bugger it, they will just have to swim”.

The three fearless hunters looked up at us with that look of a faithful dog that seemed to ask “are we going home or are we going hunting again?”

It was almost dark and the floodwaters seemed to be getting higher by the minute.

In the fast fading light we could see it had reached the base of the hill at Stud Road and had covered all the land that is now the Dandenong wetlands and right around to the base of the hill

below the Ordish clay pits. Murph picked up Mickey, the smallest of the three dogs, held him under his arm and with his other hand on the handlebars said “let’s bloody go”.

We pedalled as fast as we could towards the Heatherton Road bridge.

We were all nervous and became much worse when someone said he hoped there were no planks washed out of the bridge.

We rode across the submerged bridge with the water almost up to the bars on our bikes.

“So far so good,” someone said and someone else, who was totally stressed out, replied “so far, so bloody what. There is still a long way to go”.

As soon as we were over the bridge we dropped down into a hole where the old roadway had been washed out.

When we hit this deepest part of the flood the current was so strong it knocked us sideways off our bikes.

Mickey was washed out from under Murph’s

arm, but luckily he had been carrying him with his right arm so instead of getting washed away the dog was stopped by the bike and he managed to keep swimming alongside it while Murph wheeled with both hands.

By this time we were all wheeling our bikes in water which in the deepest parts was up to our armpits.

Ruffie and Rex were normally strong swimmers, but the current had damn near washed them across to the barbed wire fence of the bull paddocks.

Once they were past this deep area and the strong current they managed to swim back to us on the roadway.

For a while they looked as desperate as we all felt.

Once we were through the main flow of the flood it was just a matter of a long swim for the dogs and a long wade for us wheeling our bikes.

Luckily we all made it safely.

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13TH MAY 2017 BRENDAN SCOTT

Mayors unite for soccer

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Three south-east councils have forged a formal alliance to lure a national A-League soccer side to the region.

With former local Socceroo Vince Grella as the bid’s ambassador, Cardinia, Casey and Greater Dandenong’s mayors signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 4 May. Mr Grella, born and raised in Keysborough and a former junior player at Springvale City, said he was excited to help lure Melbourne’s third ALeague side to “my backyard”.

“This is about an opportunity to have our own team in the south-east,” Mr Grella said.

“It would be a platform for young footballers to dream and have aspirations to play for a club where they were born and grew up.

“And for them to go on to bigger and better things.”

The bid is based on the size and passion of the greater south-eastern region. Including the cities of Frankston and Kingston, it is home to more than 1 million people.

Cardinia Mayor Brett Owen, Casey Mayor Sam Aziz, Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti and Vince Grella. 167855 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Greater Dandenong hosts the most soccer clubs in the state - 17, including three National Premier League sides. Casey has 15 clubs.

Between the two municipalities, there’s more than 5000 registered players.

“We believe it’s the right pitch at the right time,” Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti said.

The councils propose a match-day stadium to be built within walking distance of Dandenong railway station and its Cranbourne, Pakenham and Gippsland train services.

Cr Memeti said the council was considering possible sites at Greaves Reserve and a vacant Cheltenham Road site south of the railway station.

The next step is luring private financial backers to form the bid, and possibly to help build the stadium, Cr Memeti said.

“The councils will supply the land, the stadiums and training facilities but it’s not our role to run the club.

“We want to find somebody to run the club.”

The squad would train at a $40 million facility to be built at Casey Fields in Cranbourne East.

The training facility comprises a regional-level stadium pitch with three synthetic soccer fields, a natural turf field and pavilion.

It would require about $20 million of state funding, Casey Mayor Sam Aziz said.

He said the national league side would complement Casey’s partnership with Melbourne Football Club and Melbourne Stars Big Bash League team.

Prior to the MoU signing, Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams had written a letter supporting the bid to state Sport Minister John Eren.

Car crashes into brick fence, home A car crashed through a large brick wall and hit a Springvale South home, on Tuesday 2 May. Emergency services were called to the Mackay Street property just after midday.

There were reports of smoke coming from the Volkswagen sedan.

An ambulance attended the scene but the driver, a 62-year-old woman, did not require treatment.

The airbag in her car deployed.

A building surveyor was called to assess the brick wall, which was deemed unstable following the crash.

A gas meter impacted in the incident was assessed and deemed safe.

Tamana’s the perfect choice

By Casey Neill Keysborough and Springvale students were among the winners at the Premier’s VCE Awards.

Minaret College Springvale campus principal Sead Omerovic congratulated Tamana Geyasi, who was recognised for achieving excellent results in the subject texts and traditions last year.

“She obtained a perfect score of 50, the only perfect score in Victoria in that study,“ he said.

“In the presence of her mother, Perwen, and brother, Samir, Tamana received the award from the Deputy Premier (James Merlino).“ Mr Omerovic and Tamana’s teacher for the subject, Ahmad Naushad, also attended the ceremony on Thursday 27 April.

Mr Merlino, who’s also the Education Minister, presented almost 300 awards at the gala event.

He said the awards recognised young Victorians who had completed the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) with distinction.

Several Haileybury College Keysborough campus students were also among local recipients.

Aditya Gupta, a Year 11 student, earned his award for accounting.

A perfect study score was his goal for the subject and he achieved it through hard work, including completing more than 60 trial examinations.

Cindy Zhong was awarded for her perfect score in further mathematics.

Right: The car shortly after the incident. 167851 Picture: ROB CAREW

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5 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 8 May, 2017

DNA find nabs burglar

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Noble Park burglar has pleaded guilty after his DNA was found on a fruit-drink box that he stole and drank from a victim’s fridge.

Trung Nguyen appeared by video link at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 1 May and pleaded guilty to burglary and stolen goods charges while on a community corrections order.

Residents who had just moved into a Noble Park tenancy were burgled twice, on 1 and 6 March.

On their first day of living at the address, their PlayStation Portable, sunglasses, perfumes, phone chargers and gym gear were taken during a burglary.

Five nights later, one of the resident’s cars with

a distinctive ‘Be Doctor Drew’ sticker was stolen from the rear of the unit and has yet to be recovered.

On 8 March, the owner tracked down his vehicle outside Nguyen’s Lightwood Road address, with some of his stolen items lying in a rubbish pile in a nearby residential yard.

During a police search warrant of Nguyen’s home on 9 March, investigators recovered items stolen from a Springvale residential burglary the day before.

At that burgled Albert Avenue home, police found an empty Coles fruit-drink box that had been taken from the fridge and left on the floor.

A sample of Nguyen’s DNA was found on the box.

Nguyen had been previously jailed at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court for 90 days in December

and had been sentenced to six months’ jail at the County Court of Victoria on 28 April.

Despite breaching two community corrections orders, Nguyen asked the court to give him the chance of another CCO with drug therapy and social supports.

“The six months he will serve (in jail) will dry him out more than he’s ever dried out before,” Nguyen’s lawyer said.

“We have an opportunity here to successfully rehabilitate him.”

Magistrate Jack Vandersteen rejected the bid, saying Nguyen had chances on past CCOs. “It’s all like singing Kumbaya, to be honest,” he said.

He took into account the proportionality and totality of adding to Nguyen’s jail term, effectively adding four months of further jail time.

Sport education a big hit at Endeavour Hills leisure Dandenong students are taking centre court, thanks to Endeavour Hills Leisure Centre.

Emerson School is a specialist school that caters to students with mild intellectual processing difficulties.

The YMCA centre partnered with the school so students could complete VET Certificate II in Sport and Recreation.

“In the morning, the wonderful staff have accommodated a temporary classroom in the hall where students complete written tasks,” Emerson School teacher Kevin Van Twest said.

“From there, we move to the gym which has state-of-the-art equipment and knowledgeable trainers assisting us.

“After lunch, the class moves onto a basketball court, where we have developed skills in basketball, tennis, soccer and handball to name a few sports.”

Mr Van Twest said staff had been very supportive and understanding of the students’ disabilities.

Leisure centre manager Susie Nogic said it was great to see how excited the students were when they came in.

“They have enjoyed learning new exercises, and working towards their fitness goals,” she said.

Matt, Kavin, Sukaly, Kevin, Lyndal, Hilary, Harry and Bryce are involved in the program.

Rotary wants fresh blood

By Casey Neill “Let Rotary be part of your life.”

Rotary Club of Noble Park-Keysborough president Ron Damon is hoping to boost membership numbers, which sit at 25.

“We don’t want people to think ‘Rotary, it takes up too much time’,” he said.

“Attendance rules today are much more relaxed.

“Do all your other hobbies, but make a few more new friends, do some networking and do something in the community.”

The club is inviting potential new recruits to attend its Thursday 11 May meeting at Sandown Regency in Noble Park.

Moorabbin Airport Corporation CEO Paul Ferguson will be the guest speaker.

“Anyone interested in coming along to that night is welcome,” Mr Damon said.

But anyone interested in learning more about Rotary is welcome any time.

“Just come along and see what we do,” he said.

The club meets on Thursdays and regularly hosts guest speakers, holds social activities like movie nights and winery tours, and supports local and international projects.

It provides books to pre-school students through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, helps with mock job interviews for students, sponsors kids to attend camps, awards citizenship certificates, supports Ronald McDonald House and more.

The club is working with Keysborough College on an Interact Club - a Rotary offshoot which is designed to get kids co-ordinating volunteer projects.

“Along with making new friends, Rotary is a great networking opportunity,” Mr Damon said.

“We love the challenge.”

Call Mr Damon on 0408 766 643 for more information.

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Migrant settlement and jobs blow

By Casey Neill Successful settlement for hundreds of migrants and 400 teaching jobs.

These are the likely costs of AMES losing the Federal Government contract to deliver English services to Australia’s newest residents - a role it has performed for about 60 years.

A group of TAFEs led by Melbourne Polytechnic won the tender to deliver the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) in Victoria from July.

AMES spokesman Laurie Nowell said the settlement service, which has locations in Dandenong and Noble Park, would help its clients with the transition.

He was hopeful that the new providers would hire some of the outgoing AMES teachers.

“We have concerns that the holistic service

delivery we’ve been pioneering could be lost,” he said.

“That will have an impact on successful settlement.”

Mr Nowell explained that AMES provided not just English classes, but settlement and employment services.

“We think it’s a really good way to operate this service,” he said.

He said it promoted social cohesion and helped migrants to make a start on their new lives.

“We’re really disappointed,” he said.

“We will continue to provide settlement services for refugees.

“We’ve just lost the English language part of the jigsaw.”

Mr Nowell said AMES employed about 1200 people across the state.

Volunteer Wayne Veal has been helping teachers in classrooms at AMES in Dandenong since about 2009.

“It’s been the best job I’ve ever done in my life,” he said.

“I just help in the class.

“It’s just one of the greatest things I’ve ever done.”

Mr Veal said he was shocked to learn that AMES had lost the contract.

“It’s the whole community that’s going to be sort of devastated,” he said.

“We don’t know what’s around the corner.

“Within Dandenong and Noble Park AMES alone about 70 dedicated teachers and admin staff will either lose their job or have to apply for positions with the new provider.”

He said about 1000 students attended AMES

in Dandenong and Noble Park “who will have their routine and learning disrupted because of this unnecessary change”.

“The connection between teachers, volunteers and students and the sense of belonging students and their families have developed with AMES will be lost with a new provider.”

Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills Karen Andrews said the Federal Government looked forward to “working with providers to deliver improved learning outcomes for migrants and Australian job seekers with language, literacy and numeracy barriers”.

She said the business model for AMEP had recently been revised “to allow for more flexible and innovative training methods to offer more opportunity for participation as well as encourage continued attendance”.

Students Cailey and Dhiiren rehearse for the musical.

Picture: PIA JOHNSON

Students wide awake for musical Keysborough students combined the classic and modern in a three-show run of their senior school musical.

Haileybury presented The Drowsy Chaperone on Wednesday 3, Thursday 4 and Friday 5 May. It captured the best of 1920s and 1930s musicals but added a modern storyline.

Director Stewart Bell said it was a rare thing as a teacher to have the perfect group of performers for a production.

“But I have been privileged with the cast of The Drowsy Chaperone,” he said.

He said the cast included an outstanding chorus to complement its wonderful leads.

“Such was the abundance of talent I have cast two performers for the one role on three occasions,” he said.

“Our band has been challenged but its members have more than risen to the call.

“The brass section is spectacular.”

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7 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 8 May, 2017

They’re a diamond pair forever

By Casey Neill Valuing each other’s opinions and avoiding heavy debt are the keys to marital success, according to Emanuel and Anna Saliba.

And the Springvale couple should know.

They’ll celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Thursday 18 May. “I’ll tell you one thing,“ Emanuel said.

“The reason we’ve stayed together is because if she had something to say I’d listen to her, no arguments,” he said.

“We’re not involved in lot of debt.

“Nowadays’ generation, they want all the luxuries in the world.

“The payments, they can’t do it, and then the arguments start.”

Anna agreed and said: “And we trust each other.”

The Maltese-born migrants’ 60-year marriage all started with a party in Springvale.

“Every Saturday I used to go the town hall in Dandenong for dancing,” Emanuel said.

“That particular night, there is a friend who used to live at Clarke Road, they had a party.

“Then he missed to invite me over there.

“I went to pick up my friends from that place.

“He said to me ‘you come in’.

“I said ‘no, I’m not invited, I came to pick up my mate’.”

He relented and went inside.

“I’ve seen her and my eyes went on her,” he said of Anna.

“I ask her if she wants to have a dance.

“She said to me, ‘I can’t dance’.

“I said, ‘I’ll teach you how to dance’.

“When the party finished I asked her where she worked.

“She used to work in Dandenong.”

Emanuel offered to drive her to work - and her brother.

“After six months of seeing her, I said to her ‘we will get married’,” he said.

They checked with their parents, who still lived in Malta, and got the go-ahead.

They married in the Springvale Mechanics Institute hall.

Anna and Emanuel Saliba look forward to celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary.

“After a couple of months we were married, I told her that I had a villa to live in,” Emanuel said, with a grin across his face.

“The villa was a bungalow.

“We lived in there for four years.

“In the meantime, I was building the house.”

They still call that house ‘home’.

“I bought the land as soon as I arrived over here,” Emanuel explained.

“I built the bungalow to live in by myself.”

The pair’s first child, Frank, arrived 11 months later. He now calls Canada home.

They had another son two and a half years later, and a third two and a half years after that.

Their daughter, Angelica, was born two years later and completed the family.

Emanuel and Anna have nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Emanuel and Anna Saliba as newlyweds.

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8 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 8 May, 2017

Half the battle is to help others

By Casey Neill A Dandenong North man is turning his prostate cancer battle into an opportunity to support others.

Jim Powell and his wife Jan set up the South Eastern Prostate Cancer Support Group (SEPCSG) in February.

Dandenong RSL donates a space for SEPCSG to meet at 7pm on the third Wednesday of each month.

“It’s there to support people, and it’s basically to have somewhere to come and talk about it,” he said.

Jim’s prostate cancer journey started with a routine blood test in 2013. His prostate specific antigen (PSA) level was high - an indicator for the disease.

“This is a silent killer,” he said.

“You have no indication.

“A lot of men die with it and don’t even realise that’s what they’ve got.

“I was a bit stunned.”

He was sent to specialist Dennis King at Cabrini Hospital, who confirmed the cancer diagnosis and performed laparoscopic surgery.

“I went onto hormone treatment not long after having the surgery,” he said.

But Jan said another blood test showed his PSA was on the way back up.

“That’s when he had to have radiation,” she said.

“Now he’s having chemo because it’s come back.”

Jim is receiving chemotherapy every 22 days, and is due to finish his treatment in June.

“We don’t know if this is going to work or not, but we’re pretty positive,” he said.

“I’m not sitting around moping I don’t think.

“You’ve got to be positive. Life is very delicate.

“You really start to appreciate life.”

Jim attended a prostate cancer support group session in Ringwood alongside more than 30 other men and wives.

“It was the best night I’ve ever had in a group,” he said.

“They go around the room and ask all the guys

Jan and Jim Powell. how they’re going. Then they turn to the wife and say ‘how’s he going?’.

“There was a guy there who was going for his operation the next week.

“They asked him ‘how are you feeling, Dan?’ and he said ‘I am absolutely scared’.

“We all went over to him.

“The biggest thing that I got out of that from those guys was you have to keep this occupied.

“This is where you get the doubt. This is where the trouble starts.”

Jim immediately decided to start his own group, inspired by his own experience and the support his son Jeremy found while he was battling leukaemia at age 30.

“He went into intensive care. We almost lost him. He has now celebrated 10 years this past December,” he said.

The Powells have delivered SEPCSG leaflets at hospitals and other services in the form of letters addressed “Dear Friend”.

The letter offers guests help to cope with the emotional and psychological effects of cancer, reduce feelings of isolation, and improve well-being and hope.

Call 0477 913 005 or email SEPCSG@hotmail. com for more information or to get involved.

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Field day for pooches, owners

By Casey Neill

Frances Sadler and Bones would like to see a dog park in Noble Park. 167636

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Noble Park pooches could soon have more room to move.

A new dog park is proposed for the public space that will be created beneath the elevated rail line.

Frances Sadler and her fox-terrier cross Bones visited Copas Reserve on Monday 1 May to launch a survey on this idea and others.

Ms Sadler owns ACE dog grooming, which has been in Noble Park for 20 years and has about 1500 clients.

She said fenced areas provided peace of mind for dog owners and a chance for canines to burn off spare energy.

“People have been at work all day, they’re tired, but the dogs have been stuck at home all day and they need to run it off,” Ms Sadler said.

“There’s a lot of breeds that need to run, but not all people are capable of running, especially when they get older.

“Although you can take your dog off leash in certain reserves, there are too many unpredictable situations.

“Even the most well-behaved dog, under the right or wrong circumstances, can just bolt for it.”

Project director Brett Summers urged Noble Park residents to complete the survey by the end of May. “It’s essential we test this proposal with the broader public to make sure there is real support for these ideas,” he said.

Community Open Space Expert Panel chair Professor Tim Entwisle, the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne director, said there was a strong focus on all-age facilities.

“We are really looking to create spaces that look beyond the traditional to make sure there is something for everyone, no matter what stage of life you are at,” he said.

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The pathways to work program will support young people from culturally diverse backgrounds to gain valuable educational and workplace experience.

The program will see the two not-for-profit groups working closely with young people in Casey and Dandenong, providing links for young people to learn and engage with employment opportunities.

Pathways to Work supports young people through education and paid work options, traineeships and apprenticeships in growth industries in Victoria; allowing both workers and employers to build valuable future skills and networks.

At the program’s launch, program participant Mustaf Aden shared his experience of migrating to Australia and trying to find work.

“I arrived from Somalia as a 15-year-old in 2010 without knowing a single word of English,” Mr Aden said.

“It took me a year to get around the language barrier and then I went to high school. In the two years after graduating, I found it really difficult to find a job.”

“I felt like no-one was willing to take a chance and provide me with an opportunity to show what a hard worker I am.”

“Thanks to AFL SportsReady and CMY, I have this great job and I’m determined to make sure it’s successful. I am making the most of this opportunity.”

CMY CEO Carmel Guerra OAM said while they could support young people entering the workforce, it was equally important potential employers came to the table as well.

“It is now more important than ever for businesses to provide young migrant and refugee people with an opportunity to create a future,” she said.

“Despite limited opportunity, it’s inspiring to witness their positive outlook and willingness to put in the hard work to succeed.”

The program is being partly funded by a $750,000 commitment from the Victorian State Government.

Minister for Industry and Employment Wade Noonan said it was important for the government to engage in programs to assist the changing nature of the Victorian workforce.

“Victoria’s economy is changing. We need business and communities to come together to offer job opportunities for the next generation of young people,” he said.

“Many young Victorians face barriers to employment in their local communities - and we want to turn this around.”

“This program, bringing together two highlyrespected organisations, will change the lives of young people by giving them opportunities to shine in the workplace.”

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2 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 8 May, 2017

Connecting people and communities DJ

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NOBLE PARK This is a rare opportunity for an investment property of this quality and size in Noble Park.

It is just 100 metres from the vibrant Douglas Street cafes, restaurants, supermarkets, Noble Park Train Station, buses, the beautiful Ross Reserve, the skate park, swimming pool and RSL club.

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SOCIAL CLUB GIVEN $25,000 GIFT Maxwell Shifman, Intrapac Property COO, handed over a special Easter surprise to Somerfield Community Social Club members Rolando Navas and Adele Clausen - a $25,000 cheque to help continue events for the Somerfield community after final land sales complete a decade of Intrapac involvement in the area.

“We’re thrilled to be able to contribute in this way to the hard-working Somerfield Community Social Club team and to recognise the importance the events have played in creating cohesiveness in such a vibrant and diverse community,” Max said.

“It’s been incredibly rewarding to revitalise the Keysborough area, as well as to watch the neighbourhood come alive for residents with the events.

“Not only has it been a savvy investment to buy into the area, but also created incredible memories for residents and their families thanks to the social club.”

The Somerfield Community Social Club was founded in October 2013 after resident Rolando Navas, who lives in the neighbourhood with his wife and two young children, approached Intrapac Property with the suggestion.

“Intrapac has been so supportive from the very beginning and embraced the concept we proposed of forming the club,” Rolando said.

“Without Intrapac’s funding and support, it simply wouldn’t have got off the ground.

It’s run by residents for residents and we hope to keep it going for many years to come.”

The social club’s inaugural meeting drew more than 30 residents at the old sales DJ

Connecting people and communities

THE EASTER BUNNY STOPPED IN AT SOMERFIELD'S PIRATE PARK FOR A FAMILY FUN DAY.

ROLANDO NAVAS, FOUNDER OF SOMERFIELD COMMUNITY SOCIAL CLUB, MAXWELL SHIFMAN, INTRAPAC PROPERTY COO, THE EASTER BUNNY, AND SOMERFIELD COMMUNITY SOCIAL CLUB MEMBERS ROBIN CHACKO AND JUDITH BURGESS. office before a committee was formed.

There have been more than 20 events since that day, including celebrations of the diverse communities in the development, such as Diwali, Chinese New Year, Easter, Christmas and even Talk Like a Pirate Day. There has also been a trip to the snow for residents, organised by the club.

“I could not think of anywhere else I’d rather live,” said social club member and

local business owner Adele Clausen.

“Being part of the social club is an honour and I love getting to know all of my neighbours and watching the children have a blast at every event.”

The social club welcomes new members so anyone who would like an opportunity to get involved and contribute to their local community can get in touch with Adele or Rolando through the Somerfield Social Club Facebook page at www.facebook. com/groups/somerfieldsocialclub.

THIS RESIDENT WAS ALL EARS. Monday, 8 May, 2017 DANDENONG JOURNAL 3

TIME TO WORK YOUR WAY UP

Auction this Sat.

Noble Park 72 Leonard Avenue

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If you have been searching for a perfectly rectangular block, look no further! Sitting on an allotment of 650sq approx of prime residential land with great development potential (STCA), or dual occupancy potential. Keep the house and build at the back (STCA) & reap the rewards. The long driveway welcomes you to relax on the verandah lowing into a lovely 3BDR home with lounge, huge kitchen, meals area & central bathroom. Take this opportunity to purchase, live in or keep current tenants & plan for future development.

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AUCTION Saturday 13th May at 12pm PRICE Contact Agent INSPECT Thurs 5:30 - 6pm & Sat 11:30am - 12pm CONTACT Jenny Sudra 0422 991 593 Noble Park 8710 0000

395 GLENDONALD DRIVE, HAZELWOOD SOUTH

25 WARATAH WAY, TRAFALGAR EAST

2.5 ACRES

2

1

3

$

330,000

3.3 ACRES

4

2

358 COALVILLE ROAD, MOE SOUTH

4

$

125 RIFLE RANGE ROAD, GLENGARRY

7 ACRES

4+

2

4

$

588,000

37 ACRES

5+

155 MANUELS ROAD, YALLOURN NORTH

1

5+

$

2

2

$

440,000

749,000

727 MOE WALHALLA ROAD, TANJIL SOUTH

5 ACRES

5

659,000

40 ACRES

4

2

6

$

695,000

Escape to the country Affordable lifestyle properties under 1.5hrs to Pakenham Danny Edebohls Property Sales

12351410-RC19-17

Last fortnight we discussed who you can utilise in order to help you understand how much you can borrow, and which lenders you can use which best suit your individual circumstances.

In this edition, let’s discuss where you should buy.

For most of you reading this, you live or work in the south-eastern suburbs so most likely somewhere close to where you are right now!

For those of you who have been actively searching for land, that is easier said than done!

Whilst just two years ago Cranbourne East, Carrum Downs and Pakenham were affordable options for first home buyers, land prices have soared due to demand.

Most land estates in Carrum Downs and Cranbourne East have been bought up and previously affordable estates in Pakenham are quite expensive - pricing first home buyers out of the market.

With the challenges presented above, we can still assist first home buyers into house and land packages at reasonably affordable prices.

The key thing to remember is first home buyers and more pertinently the words - first home.

Speak to mum and dad - are they living in the very first house they ever bought together?

More likely than not, the answer is no.

Now you need to run very fast away from them before they start telling you the story of how they scraped all their

money together to afford their house!

But mum and dad’s first home purchase is a familiar situation I am sure you can empathise with.

Due to affordability, chances are you are going to have to settle for a house that’s not quite as big as you would like it, in an area not quite as close as you want it. That’s okay. Remember - first home.

The same way mum and dad are living in their dream house now is the same path you can step up to get yours. It is important to keep perspective.

So, it doesn’t have to be the 30-square single storey on 500-meter square land with four living rooms (when in reality, you are a young couple/ single applicant with no kids and six spare rooms you will never use).

Start off with a home in an area which you can, most importantly, afford.

Clyde, Clyde North and some remaining areas of Officer are great areas to capitalise on smaller lots at an affordable price.

Developers do a great job in estates with infrastructure, parklands and shopping centres - they are well manicured and well maintained!

This will help build equity in your home to utilise at a later stage when you buy your dream home, on your dream block of land.

And finally, thanks to the Victorian State Governments’ commitment to first home buyers, pushing into regional areas like Drouin and Warragul will assist with your deposit - from 1 July, regional buyers are entitled to a $20,000 home buyers grant. Something worthy of more than just a thought!

The land prices are significantly cheaper and the overall size is superiorly larger - that is having your cake and eating it too!

(03) 5127 2000 www.dannyedebohlspropertysales.com.au

Auction this Sat.

Keysborough 6 Sargasso Avenue

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The epitome of safe family friendly living lies here in this amazing three bedroom family home.

Tucked in this quiet street, here is a home that boasts two living areas, a spacious kitchen, private undercover courtyard plus three good sized bedrooms. Add in the bonus of a double lock up garage (which half has been converted to a home ofice / study), ducted heating, ducted vacuum, evaporative cooling, an alarm plus so much more!

It’s an outstanding home in a premium pocket of Keysborough & now you get the chance to own it!

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AUCTION Saturday 13th May at 12:30pm PRICE Contact Agent INSPECT Thurs 5:30 - 6pm & Sat 12 - 12:30pm CONTACT Michael Chhun Lim 0466 858 888 Chee-ky Dunlop 0422 910 881 Keysborough 8769 1888

WE DELIVER...

GREATER DANDENONG

W G E N TIN S LI

Keysborough 5 alana coURT eXcePTIonal sTyle

A4 B2 PrIVaTe sale

E3 C2 D1

Keysborough 8 Howland Place a lucKy new home.

A4 B2 PrIVaTe sale

E2 C2

$850,000 to $890,000 wed 6:00 - 6:30pm Sat 1:00 -1:30pm Photo Id Required conTacT alex Khun 0438 443 846 corey (Khoi) le 0417 311 491 oFFIce 363 Springvale Road, Springvale Tel: 03 8581 0999

esr VIew

every element of this near new contemporary residence showcases the latest designer style, superior quality and a peerless attention to detail.

• Elegant Porter Davis design • Floating timber staircase • Open-plan kitchen/dining/living • State of the art kitchen w/ butlers pantry, stone benches and ample storage • Upstairs zoned retreat w/ balcony access • Master bedroom w/ WIR and designed en-suite

$1,160,000 to $1,270,000 Thur 6;00 - 6:30pm Sat 1:00 - 1:30pm Photo Id Required conTacT ozan Kan 0403 644 379 corey (Khoi) le 0417 311 491 OFFIcE 363 Springvale Road, Springvale Tel: 03 8581 0999

NOBLE PARK 26 STUaRT STReeT

A4 B2 E2 C2

sPrIngVale 7 nInalee coURT

A5 B3 E3 C3

ELEGANCE AND EXCELLENCE ON 802M2

PRIvAte SAle

an IrresIsTIble FamIly lIVIng In The hearT oF sPrIngVale

PrIVaTe sale

eSR vIeW

• 5 bedrooms with BIR, a master/ensuite and a spa • 1 ground loor bedroom • Open-plan kitchen with Butler’s pantry and ample of storage • Brivis Climate Control Systems • Outdoor alfresco under covered entertaining area • Beautiful landscaped gardens • 3000L water tank connected to the motor • Exceptional custom inishes

(APPROX.) A fast developing precinct close to parks, great schools, public transport and shopping.

• Open plan living w/ high ceilings • 2 x gas Rinnai heaters & Splits system A/C • Custom kitchen w/ SS appliances • 5-burner cooktop 900mm oven w/Island bench • Generously sized robed bedrooms • Reno bathroom w/ caesar stone benchtops • Under covered entertaining area. Insulated garage • 808m2 w/ 18m frontage (approx.)

363 Springvale Road, Springvale DJ

Connecting people and communities

esr VIEW

$900,000 to $970,000 By appointment Photo Id Required COntACt Tommy nguyen 0431 644 889 corey (Khoi) le 0417 311 491 OffICe 363 Springvale Road, Springvale Tel: 03 8581 0999

nestled beautifully in the exclusive somerield estate, close to local shops, sporting facilities, public transport and prestigious schools.

• Quality open plan kitchen w/ SS appliances • Light illed family living & dining area • Generously sized bedrooms • 2 superb Al fresco dining options • Double car garage • 4yr old Metricon built • 28sq/448m2 (approx)

858 10 999

$1,100,000 to $1,170,000 By appointment Photo Id Required COntaCt Tommy nguyen 0431 644 889 corey (Khoi) le 0417 311 491 OffICE 363 Springvale Road, Springvale Tel: 03 8581 0999

esr VIew

bigginscott.com.au Monday, 8 May, 2017 DANDENONG JOURNAL 5

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

COUNTRY WEEKENDER, WHAT A GEM!

Auction this Saturday

Elders Leongatha 16 McCartin Street, Leongatha

For more information or to book an inspection, please contact Jean O’Loughlin on 0428 571 083.

Open for Inspection time: Saturday 20th May @ 12.00pm - 1.00pm Price: $359,000 Web ID: 11121316 Address: 1747 Grand Ridge Rd, Trida

Elders Leongatha, 16 McCartin Street Leongatha

P: 03 5662 3523

Auction 11:00am 13th May Price Contact Agent Dee Kawsar 0423 215 815

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

Sell your home today with....

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

AREASPECIALIST

3 A 3 B 2 C 3 D 2 E 865 F Keysborough 2 Hidden Grove Boulevard Auction 10:00am 27 May Price Contact Agent Inspect Sat 12:30pm

12-year-old 32 square home on property suitable for rental while you organize permits, or as no permits are needed for a new luxury home on the site, you can simply start to build as soon as the land settles.

An opportunity like this won’t come along again as 865 square metres of prime land in one of Keysborough’s best estates – Hidden Grove is scarce.

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

Dee Kawsar 0423 215 815

AREASPECIALIST.COM.AU

1232979-KC26-16

Dandenong North 13 Laemmle Street

Aspendale Gardens Shop 13 Narelle Drive

Ph: 03 5662 3523

• Approx. 1 acre, ultimate country get-away • 2 BRs, 2 bathroom country home, spectacular views • Wood heater, s/s reverse cycle & gas wall heater • 3 smaller paddocks plus house paddock • Shed/workshop, wood/potting/garden shed, veg beds • 90 min to Melb, 25 min Leongatha, 30 min Warragul

MORE SOLD?

3A 1B 1C

Inspect Sat 10:30am

12351138-EPJ19-17

AFFORDABLE HOME WITH CHARACTER • 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, spacious living area • Split system reverse cycle for heating/cooling • Solar power plus water tank for garden • Double length carport, garage/workshop • Close to schools, park, main street Please contact Jean O’Loughlin on 0428 571 083.

Open for Inspections: Saturday 13th May @ 10.30am – 11.00am Saturday 20th May @ 10.30am – 11.00am Address: 6 Mary Rogers Crs, Leongatha Price: $290,000 Web ID: 11229272

12351105-HM19-17

AREASPECIALIST

Endeavour Hills 11 Furlong Court

For auction.

9706 0556

For auction.

9706 0556

Saturday 20 May at 12:30pm • 4 bedroom home on640m2 (approx.)

• Renovated kitchen overlooking dining • 3 spacious living zones • Alfresco with views

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

Saturday 20 May at 2:30pm • 4 bedrooms plus study on 1791m2 • Entertainers kitchen with WIP • 3 spacious and light filled living zones • Wonderful alfresco overlooking garden

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

F4 G2 H2 I1

F4 G2 H2 I1

Endeavour Hills 3 Orkney Close

Endeavour Hills 4 Wingate Court

For auction.

9706 0556

For auction.

9706 0556

$560,000 - $615,000 Saturday 20 May at 11:30am • 4 bedroom home on 625m2 of land • Kitchen overlooking the dining zone • 2 light filled living zones

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

Saturday 27 May at 12:30pm • 5 bedroom family home 612m2 (appox) • Light filled kitchen overlooking garden • 2 oversized living areas • Alfresco area, landscaped garden

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

F4 G2 H2

F5 G2 H2

Dandenong 7 Eton Court

Dandenong 2/18 Grandview Avenue

For auction.

9793 3175

For sale.

9793 3175

$530,000 - $580,000 Saturday 27 May at 12:30pm • 3 bedrooms, 2 with BIR’s • Air conditioning & heating • Single garage

282 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong obrienrealestate.com.au Dennis Tzortzoglou 0438 341 066 Bob Milkovic 0422 504 106

$480,000-$528,000 • 3 bedrooms • Kitchen with marble bench

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

F3 G1 H1

F3 G2 H2

Dandenong 1-5/72 King Street

Dandenong North 52 Simpson Drive

For sale.

9793 3175

For sale.

9793 3175

$450,000 - $495,000 • 6 star energy rating • Ducted refrigerated heating/cooling • Bosch s/s app including d/washer

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

$780,000 - 830,000 • Fully renovated house • Planning permit issued for 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom townhouse at the rear

282 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong obrienrealestate.com.au Bob Milkovic 0422 504 106

F2 G1 H1 I1 DJ

Narre Warren North 15 Lemon Tree Lane

Connecting people and communities

F3 G1 H2 Monday, 8 May, 2017 DANDENONG JOURNAL 7

SALES & RENTALS

118 walker st dandenong P: 9791 5922 F: 9792 2536 N IORDAY T C TU ATUHIS SA

N IORDAY T C TU ATUHIS SA

Dandenong

Dandenong

66 langhorne street

GRAND OPPORTUNITY ON 933m2 OF LAND!

Currently Zoned Residential Growth Zone 1, this magnificent block has wide street frontage of over 20m. Ideal for redevelopment and subdivision (STCA) and the location will ensure ready sales for your new project.

Currently has a three bedroom home with lots of character, perfect to move in for a period while getting your Plans and Permits with feature high set ceilings and a façade with lead light windows and doors.

Centre of town location in one of Dandenong’s best streets being close to shops, market, train station, schools and more!

PREMIUM PROPERTY - PREMIUM ADDRESS!

auction: saturday, 13th may, 2017 @ 11:00am (if not sold prior) oPen: wed 4:30pm to 5:00pm & sat 10:30am to 11:00am

N IO T C AU

Doveton

21 goldlang street

PRESENTATION WILL IMPRESS!

This superbly presented three bedroom home offers an inviting living space for a family, first home buyer or savvy investor. The renovated kitchen, bathroom and laundry means hassle free living for years to come. The polished boards and large windows really bring out the light and warmth in this home. The outlook is over parkland and manicured gardens yet the block is an easy to manage size so the weekends are yours to enjoy!

Close to transport, schools, shops and extensive cycling/walking trails and so much more. Inspections will not disappoint so come and be prepared to call this your new home.

A FANTASTIC ENVIRONMENT!

auction: saturday, 13th may, 2017 @ 2:00pm (if not sold prior) oPen: wed 3:00pm to 3:30pm & sat 1:30pm to 2:00pm

N IO T C AU

Dandenong

8 Karo court

DREAM BIG!

This fabulous hilltop, relatively flat site of approximately 850m2 is ideal for multi unit development (STCA).

The solid three bedroom home is currently let for $275.00 per week, providing a steady income whilst your plans are being approved.

The quiet court location is adjacent to parkland and close to schools and Freeway access.

An excellent opportunity in the fast growing South East!

AN EXCITING PROSPECT!

auction: saturday, 3rd June, 2017 @ 11:00am (if not sold prior) oPen: wed 5:00pm to 5:30pm & sat 12:00pm to 12:30pm

Hampton Park

1-3/1 James street

A SUPER TRIO!

These three well constructed two bedroom, separately Titled villa units are set on a magnificent site of approximately 923m2 and Zoned RGZ Schedule 1. Perched on the edge of the CBD close to Dandenong High School and Freeway access, this ‘Blue Chip’ investment will return approx. $48,000 per annum to the astute purchaser.

LOTS OF OPTIONS: * Buy in your super fund * Buy with other family members * Renovate and increase return * Re-develop site to multi level apartments or townhouses (STCA) POSITION PLUS POTENTIAL! SECURE YOUR FUTURE!

auction: saturday, 3rd June, 2017 @ 12:30pm (if not sold prior) oPen: wed 4:45pm to 5:15pm & sat 12:45pm to 1:15pm

Dandenong

8 Patricia court

4 BEDROOMS - 2 BATHROOMS - GARAGE!

24/80 cheltenham road

YOUR SEARCH HAS ENDED!

All the things that are needed in a big family home are right here!

The living spaces are enormous and the two separate areas consist of a carpeted lounge/dining room and a massive tiled meals and family room.

There is an ensuite to the master bedroom and a large central bathroom located close to the bedrooms.

The kitchen has a wall oven, gas hot plates, rangehood and dishwasher.

Add to this the massive garage, pattern paved drive and quiet court location and you have the perfect family setup!

WHAT A PACKAGE!

Set in a quality development, this ground floor apartment is in a league of its own.

One bedroom with dual access to the central bathroom and the living area. Open plan living with large windows merging into the kitchen/meals area. Euro laundry with plenty of space plus separate linen closet.

Easy access to the secure carpark and storage area. Large paved patio area with plenty of space for entertaining and privacy fencing.

Great tenants with an excellent return!

AWESOME FOR YOUR SUPER!

Dandenong

Dandenong

For sale: $475,000 to $522,000 oPen: thurs 5:00pm to 5:30pm & sat 4:00pm to 4:30pm

4/116 Princes highway

A GREAT STARTER OR INVESTMENT!

Situated a short distance from all Central Dandenong has to offer and conveniently close to Primary and High Schools and public transport, you’ll find this very appealing first floor apartment. The accommodation comprises two good size bedrooms both with built in robes and a balcony from the main. A spacious living area with split system heating and cooling and access to a second balcony, a super new kitchen with gloss cupboard doors, electric cooking and adjoining dining area. There’s also a renovated bathroom/laundry, floating floorboards and new hot water service. If you’re searching for a first home or a good investment then an inspection is a must.

THIS ONE WON'T LAST LONG!

For sale: $240,000 to $264,000 oPen: wed 4:00pm to 4:20pm & sat 12:10pm to 12:30pm

For sale: $250,000 to $270,000 oPen: thurs 4:00pm to 4:20pm & sat 3:00pm to 3:20pm

3/4 high street

CENTRAL TOWNHOUSE!

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!

For sale: $470,000 to $495,000 oPen: wed 3:30pm to 3:50pm & sat 11:40am to 12:00pm 12351032

Daryl Rayner Director 0411 537 820

Mick Whelan Sales Manager 0416 003 505

8 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 8 May, 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

RENTAL PROPERTIES

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AGENT: BARRY PLANT DANDENONG RENTALS, 9706 7455

AGENT: BARRY PLANT DANDENONG RENTALS, 9706 7455

AGENT: PROFESSIONALS NOBLE CITY, 9558 4599

AGENT: PROFESSIONALS NOBLE CITY, 9558 4599

CONTACT PERSON: COLIN KITNEY, 0419 510 740

CONTACT PERSON: COLIN KITNEY, 0419 510 740

CONTACT PERSON: TOM

ADDRESS: 116/51-53 BUCKLEY STREET

ADDRESS: 6A GROVE END ROAD

ADDRESS: 1/19 ALEXANDER AVENUE

ADDRESS: 35 JESSON CREST

PRICE FOR RENTAL: $335 PER WEEK

PRICE FOR RENTAL: $395 PER WEEK

PRICE FOR RENTAL: $370 PER WEEK

PRICE FOR RENTAL: $300 PER WEEK

INSPECTION: BY APPOINTMENT

INSPECTION: BY APPOINTMENT OR OFI TIMES/DAYS

INSPECTION: BY APPOINTMENT OR OFI TIMES/DAYS

INSPECTION: BY APPOINTMENT

ENDEAVOUR HILLS

DANDENONG

DANDENONG

NOBLE PARK

RENTALS: Quick buyers will be the first to enjoy the luxury of living in this newly constructed unit, which is only eight months old.

This large home offers a large master bedroom with private en suite and walk-in wardrobe, built-in wardrobe in the other two bedrooms, a large open plan kitchen, room for dining and lounge, separate laundry, security alarm system, a shed, two toilets and so much more.

Extras include ducted heating throughout and a garage with remote controlled door.

RENTALS: This newly built elevated light filled modern luxurious townhouse with its own front lawn offers an impressive lounge with high ceilings overlooking a private court yard.

The elevated spotless kitchen with Caesarstone bench tops enjoys plenty of cupboards.

There is a ground floor room and powder room, and upstairs comprises two rooms with two-way access, a large bathroom with quality fittings and lots of cupboards packed with inclusions such as LED down lights, window shutters, ducted heating, security alarm, gas booster solar hot water system and much more.

The double garage with remote controlled access completes the package.

Three bedrooms with floorboards, ducted heating, cooling to the open lounge room and front bedroom, gas cooking and hot water, large backyard with double garage.

Close to Dandenong Plaza, walking and bike trails and freeways, public transport just minutes away.

Two bedrooms with mirrored robes, open plan living, balcony off lounge over looking the park, dishwasher, split cooling and heating in lounge.

Walking distance to schools, shops, public transport, doctors, secure car-space, security entry, intercom for guests and the list goes on.

POSTCODE

3802

POSTCODE

POSTCODE

3175

3175

POSTCODE

3174

For Professional High Service and Competitive Property Management of your property

A family Business for service to manage your investment The Director of Barry Plant Dandenong Rentals, Colin has worked within the Property Management industry for over forty years. Barry Plant Dandenong Rentals is a family owned and operated business. Colin’s son Steve is the Rental Department Manager, Colin’s wife Carolyn, daughter Natalie and daughter-in-law Amitha help take care of all your rental administration and accounts.

Call today for a free rental appraisal.

12348630-LN15-17

Call

9706 7455 Dandenong Rentals DJ

Connecting people and communities

dandenong@barryplant.com.au

Noble City

40 Douglas Street Ph : 9558 4599 Monday, 8 May, 2017 DANDENONG JOURNAL 9

getting what your property is worth?

On average homes that combined print with a digital campaign achieved a better sale price by 3.1%

Sell your home today with....

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

10 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 8 May, 2017

1184149-EG20-15

That’s on average $15,500 more based on a $500,000 home.

Connecting people and communities Connecting people and communities DJ

Last Chance to buy at Somerfield!

Absolute last opportunity to buy with selected lots offering park frontage.

Lot sizes available from 424m2 - 744m2. All titled and ready to be built on now.

House and land packages available.

LOT 3534 -

$925,179

LOT 4215 2

4 BED | 2 BATH | 2 CAR | BLOCK 424m

RELEASE

LOT 4721 -

$828,437

4 BED | 2 BATH | 2 CAR | BLOCK 405m2

Comprising just 30 lots in total, Newson Street is the ideal location for your low maintenance, designer home.

Lots from $420,000, house and land packges available.

$683,000

LOT 4723/4724 - $655,000 2

3 BED | 2 BATH | 2 CAR | BLOCK 260m HAMILTON PROPERTY GROUP

SOMERFIELD

3 BED | 2 BATH | 2 CAR | BLOCKS 260m2 BURBANK HOMES

NEIGHBOURHOOD at the heart of everything

1300 719 223 somerďŹ eld.com.au

12351177-KC19-17 DJ

Connecting people and communities

Monday, 8 May, 2017 DANDENONG JOURNAL 11

Proudly presents

Nova ON DISPLAY AT 2 FENWAY DRIVE, CLYDE NORTH

Vista ON DISPLAY AT 3 FENWAY DRIVE, CLYDE NORTH

Urban ON DISPLAY AT 25 PATRICIA LOOP, KEYSBOROUGH

Superior quality, architecturally designed homes at affordable prices CALL NOW FOR A PRIVATE VIEWING

12350958-19-17

12 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 8 May, 2017

www.monomeath.com.au sales@monomeath.com.au 1300 478 060 Connecting people and communities DJ

MOTHER’S DAY

Drop in for a morning of fun Every month on a Wednesday, Dandenong Plaza will be holding a free Kids’ Morning activity that parents can bring their children along to.

On Wednesday 13 May the free Market Day activity is all about giving back to Mum. Dads or grandparents and kids will be getting creative decorating a personalised cake for Mum just in time for Mother’s Day on Sunday 14 May. Centre manager Mark Tannahill said: “This special activity for Mum will give Dad and kids the opportunity to bond together while Mum enjoys some much needed time out.

“We encourage dads or grandparents in the community to bring the kids down to the centre to take part in this special activity.”

The Mother’s Day Cake Decorating Activity will take place on Saturday 13 May between noon and 3pm on level three, near Aldi.

Bookings can be made at the Information Desk by calling 9767 2000.

Walk-ins may be available on the day if there are spots still available.

To avoid disappointment, please book ahead.

To find out more about the regular Market Day activities at Dandenong Plaza visit www.dandenongplaza.com.au.

Alana, 3, decorated a cake for her mum at Dandenong Plaza. 167721 Picture: ROB CAREW

All mot free ho hers get a t bre drink for a free gakfast and wine o lass of house rs lunch a oft drink for nd dinn er.

12351409-DJ19-17

12349991-LB17-17

S U N D AY

1 4 T H

M AY

MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH INCLUDING ENTREE, MAIN AND DESSERT

May 14 Mother’s Day

WITH COMPLIMENTARY 9am - 11am Entertainer - Lindsay Joseph (Instrumental)

CHAMPAGNE ON ARRIVAL FOR

A sumptuous breakfast spread with healthy & indulgent offerings.

Choose or try them all!

ALL MUMS ADULTS

SENIORS

KIDS

$47

$35

$15

Bookings Essential See website for Menu

The Vale Hotel

Adult - $29.95 U12 - $15 2-5yrs - $5

3 Course Carvery Buffet Lunch 12 noon - 3pm Dinner 6pm - 9pm Entertainer - Rob Foenander Full Member - $45 Non Member - $50 Kids U12 - $20 Kids 2-5yrs - $5

All mums will receive a gift on arrival.

12350085-ACM19-17

Buffet Breakfast

GLASS OF

valehotel.com.au

2277-2297 Dandenong Rd, Mulgrave VIC 3170

(03) 9546 9666 25 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 8 May, 2017

It’s none of our business but…

School holidays are often a social time, but for some these term breaks reinforce their social isolation.

The team from CatholicCare’s Dandenong office organised a family day out at Dandenong Park during the recent holidays to give refugee families a little help.

Perfect weather drew close to 300 people, mostly from Afghanistan and South Sudan, to the free barbecue and ball games.

Children climbed trees, played soccer and enjoyed a chat while their parents caught up with friends and relatives.

Florence and her son Emmanuel at the park event.

Simon Bielecki, Amanda Bolton and Di McCain from Highways.

Cheers to the best of our clubs Gaming, Greyhounds Entertainment the Best Club TAB and Highways the Best Keno Club.

The judges said Dandenong Club’s awards recognised its dynamic cafe layout, atmosphere and menu, along with its valuable contribution to the community.

Club Noble’s gong reflects its “inviting and supportive environment, responsible gambling and community contribution program”, judges said.

159/161 Lonsdale St, Dandenong

~ GLUTEN FREE / VEGETARIAN ~ $70 per person

9793 1600

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RESTAURANT 12350268-ACM19-17

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Greater Dandenong Rotarians were thrilled to hear that their $12,157 donation to Tanzanian school children had been doubled.

An anonymous philanthropist matched several recent donations to The School of St Jude.

The Rotary Club of Greater Dandenong hosted The School of St Jude’s founder and a student at a dinner on 2 March and handed over the cash it had raised.

Former Australian teacher Gemma Sisia opened the school 15 years ago and it today gives 1800 promising yet impoverished students access to free, high-quality education.

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Caught up in an explosives scare at Dandenong Police Station was City of Casey councillor Wayne Smith.

“Should I do some research on new cars in the meantime? The sergeant did ask me whether my car was insured or not,” he wrote on Facebook after being evacuated from the

station on Wednesday 3 May. The bail justice had been called in to witness an interview just minutes before a lock-down order was issued.

The full story is on page 3.

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Greater Dandenong clubs are celebrating a swag of state awards.

Dandenong Club, Club Noble in Noble Park, and Greyhounds Entertainment and Highways in Springvale all took home trophies from the Community Clubs Victoria Awards night on Saturday 22 April.

Dandenong Club was named Metro Club of the Year and Best Cafe/Casual Eating Area.

Club Noble won the Best Metro Club With

We caught our gaff before last week’s Journal went to print, but must apologise for a rather unfortunate misquote attributed to Sex Party Australia leader Fiona Patten.

We reported in our Berwick and Cranbourne News on 27 April that she’d called on Opposition Leader Matthew Guy and Premier Daniel Andrews to “put their d***s down” over the safe injecting rooms issue.

But a gracious Ms Patten called back after reading the article and pointed out that she’d, in fact, used the word “sticks”.

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Business profiles

Working to get qualified with skills The Victorian Fitness Academy (VFA Learning) Narre Warren is a registered training organisation that specialises in vocational training for the fitness and sport, massage therapy and early childhood education industries.

With a purpose-built facility offering flexible learning options, business development manager Jeremy Riley explained that the strong practical component offered by VFA assists individuals in gaining the skills and knowledge required to begin a rewarding career.

“Anyone from school leavers, career changers and those looking to return to study or work that would love to start an exciting career as a personal trainer, massage therapist or early childhood educator should consider getting started with VFA learning,” Jeremy said.

With student wellbeing and success the focus of VFA learning, the academy is linked with Deakin and Federation Universities and offers pathways to degree qualifications beyond a VFA diploma.

“Choosing a VFA pathway program can see students transition from VCAL/VCE to a working

qualification before they start university,” Jeremy said. “(Doing this gives students) the ability to start work in their chosen field earlier and gain invaluable experience that many university students miss out on.”

Well established in both the industry and local community, VFA has been providing the health, fitness and education industries for job-ready graduates for 20 years.

It also supplies exciting opportunities for work placement and transition into work upon completion of studies.

“Many of our highly qualified trainers still work in their industry bringing current industry knowledge together with years of experience to offer a holistic and relevant qualification that is the most up-to-date in the industry,” Jeremy said.

VFA applications are now open for July courses in fitness and sport, massage therapy and early childhood education and care.

Visit www.vfalearning.vic.edu.au or call 8794 6000 to learn more and start an application.

Liam Cogan and Jam Badajos of VFA Narre Warren, a registered training organisation that specialises in vocational training for the fitness and sport, massage therapy and early childhood education industries.

Chris Karalis, Senior Relationship Manager, Delphi Bank Dandenong, with Dimitri and Adriana Ganotis, owners of the Hellenic Fish Market at Dandenong Market.

Family bank gives back with cash From Tuesday 2 May to Sunday 28 May, Delphi Bank will be at the Dandenong Market offering shoppers the chance to win a $500 Delphi Bank Liberty Account.

Market goers are invited to visit the Delphi Bank kiosk, where anyone over the age of 18 can simply ‘scan and enter’ to go into the draw to win the opportunity to join the Dandenong Delphi Bank community - or check out the Delphi Bank Dandenong branch windows any day of the week!

Community engagement has been an integral part of Delphi Bank since its inception in 2012.

Striving to give back to the Australian community in which it operates, Delphi is more than a bank, it’s a family.

These fundamental values are mirrored in the Delphi Bank symbol, whose three very important pillars signify family, business and community.

Yet the Dandenong community is not only told of these values, it experiences them.

With a strong association to the rich HellenicAustralian Dandenong community, Delphi Bank

recently spoke to Dimitri and Adriana Ganotis whose family are the proud owners of the Hellenic Fish Market stall operating out of the Dandenong Market.

With a passion for high quality and commitment to giving back to the community, the Ganotis family mirror the same values upheld by Dandenong’s Delphi Bank.

“The Dandenong Market poses a different challenge every day,” Dimitri explained. “So we’re all about adapting and facing those challenges head on.”

And what better way to do so than with the help and support of a family?

“If you look around, my dad, mum and sister are all in the shop - family is very important to us”, Dimitri said.

“A sense of community for us is also really important.

“We make sure we’re giving back to the community by supplying only the freshest product, of high grade, top class quality.”

Make recycled jewellery

Ballroom dancing

What’s on 4pm to 6pm. Call 1300 630 920.

Free ceramic art Kids will receive a ceramic animal or shape to paint and take home.

The first 20 accompanying parents will receive a free coffee.

The Plaza will host a free activity for kids in the morning on the third Wednesday of the month.

■ Level 3 (near Aldi), Dandenong Plaza, McCrae and Walker streets, Dandenong.

Wednesday 17 May, 10am to 1pm. Visit www. dandenongplaza.com.au for more information.

Learn the basics of jewellery making from Emma Grace while up-cycling vintage jewellery and found objects into a new necklace and earrings.

All tools and materials supplied. Suitable for all experience levels.

■ Benga House, Heritage Hill Museum and Historical Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong. Tuesday 16 May, 6pm to 9pm. $20 for adults, $17 concession. Visit www.drumtheatre.com.au call 8571 1666 for bookings.

Green thumbs The Springvale Garden Club’s May guest speaker will be Gay Gallagher from Birdlife Australia, who’ll cover how to attract birds to a garden.

■ The Senior Citizens Hall, The Crescent, Springvale. Wednesday 17 May, 7.30pm for an 8pm start. The $2 entry fee includes door prizes and a light supper. Call Cheryl Johnson on 9551 3197 for more information.

EarthSong workshops These workshops will cover earth music, earth poetry and earth art.

■ The Open Door, 110 Ann Street, Dandenong. Tuesdays 9, 16 and 23 May, 2pm to 3pm. A $5 donation is suggested. Bookings are essential. Call 9791 8664.

Indian Fusion Ensemble Trident combines India’s diverse musical offerings with the arrangement styles of the West.

■ Drum Theatre, corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Saturday 20 May, 7.30pm to 9pm. Tickets are priced from $20.

Visit www.drumtheatre.com.au call 8571 1666 for bookings.

Police talk crime Hear what local police have to say about local crime and safety.

Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch will host Greater Dandenong Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant Scott Roberts at an afternoon forum and Sergeant Kellie Hosking from Dandenong and Springvale stations at an evening session.

■ Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18 Buckley Street, Noble Park. Wednesday 17 May, 1.30pm and 7.30pm. Call 0407 325 030 for more information.

Electric circuits This Me and My Dad workshop is for children aged seven to 11 years and a parent or carer.

Participants will learn the basic elements of an electric circuit and construct series and parallel circuits.

■ Level two, Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. Saturday 13 May, 3pm. Bookings are essential. Call 1300 630 920.

Evening with David Hobson The singer will draw on his opera, musical theatre and contemporary music repertoire.

■ Drum Theatre, corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Saturday 13 May, 7.30pm. Tickets are priced from $52.

The Gatherers Artists Susan Hall and Meg Viney collect materials from the environment to create art about the natural world’s fragility.

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

Until Saturday 3 June. 11am to 5pm Tuesday to Friday and 11am to 3pm Saturdays.

The Eureka Project Amanda Fewell has hand embroidered and appliqued flags to reflect themes relating to Australian identity and Australian values.

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

Until Saturday 3 June. 11am to 5pm Tuesday to Friday and 11am to 3pm Saturdays.

Unite Alliance This group for young people aged 12 to 25 meets weekly to develop awareness cam-

paigns and projects to tackle homophobia and discrimination.

■ Tuesdays, 4.30pm. Call, text or email Simone on 0414 015 920 or sperki@cgd.vic.gov. au.

Historic garden tour Discover this unique two acre historic precinct in the heart of Dandenong.

The tour includes Dandenong Shire’s first two-storey homestead Laurel Lodge, built in 1869, and Benga House, the largest and most expensive house in the shire when it was built in 1936.

■ Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong.

Wednesday 3 May and Wednesday 7 June, 10am to 12.30pm. Entry is $9 for adults and $6.50 concession. Call 8571 1666 or visit www.drumtheatre.com.au for bookings.

Mindfulness meditation This event aims to find a state of inner peace and connect to meaning while participants’ minds and bodies are calm, still and silent. A cuppa follows.

■ The Open Door, 110 Ann Street, Dandenong. Mondays, 2.30pm to 3.30pm. A gold coin donation is suggested. Call Trish or Jo on 9791 8664.

Peer 2 Peer Homework Students in Years 6 to 12 can get homework or assignment help from volunteer tutors, help other students with their studies and make new friends.

■ Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. Mondays during school terms,

Join in social ballroom dancing every Thursday evening, with live bands.

■ Keysborough Senior Citizens, 352 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough. Thursdays, 8pm to 11pm. $17 per person. Call Jim on 0428 549 995 for more information.

Glad Rags and Grand Event This exhibition features clothes and images from a golden era in Dandenong’s history, the 1940s to 1960s.

Dr Ian and Mrs Dorothy Hart were prominent members of Dandenong society, attending many cultural events at the Dandenong Town Hall.

Photographs and objects from the Hart family collection are included in the exhibition.

■ Benga House at Heritage Hill Museum and Historical Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong. Until Thursday 28 September. Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 4pm. Call 9793 4511 for more information.

A Man of Service This exhibition tells the story of Dr Ian Hart, a man who dedicated himself to the Dandenong community.

It details his experiences in World War II, his 50 years of medical practice in Dandenong, and involvement with Dandenong Hospital and Dandenong Rotary Club.

■ Benga House at Heritage Hill Museum and Historical Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong. Until Thursday 28 September. Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 4pm. Call 9793 4511 for more information.

Talking Faith exhibition On loan from the Immigration Museum, this display includes images and audio from an interfaith dialogue project undertaken with Melbourne school students.

It also tells the story of the Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network which started in Springvale in 1989 and was the first of its kind in Australia.

■ Laurel Lodge at Heritage Hill Museum and Historical Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong. Until 26 May. Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 4pm. Call 9793 4511 for more information.

27 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 8 May, 2017

BUSINESS SOUTH-EAST

Town murals adorning fire bank

By Casey Neill Returning to work at the branch gutted by fire last November is helping Springvale Commonwealth Bank staff to heal.

The refurbished Springvale Road site reopened its doors on Monday 1 May following the 18 November, 2016 attack that injured more than 20 people.

Police allege 21-year-old Rohingya asylum seeker Nur Islam set himself on fire inside the bank.

The Springvale man will answer 92 charges over the incident, and is due to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 11 May. South eastern area manager Christopher Beames arrived for work at the branch shortly after the incident unfolded.

“It’s the biggest challenge that myself and my team have ever faced,” he said.

“All staff were given a choice, and the vast majority of the team want to be back here in Springvale because they love the community, they love their clients, they want to be part of it.”

Mr Beames said reopening the branch also meant a lot to the community.

“They’re very dependent on our services,” he said.

“They’re a very tightly knit community here in Springvale.

“They’ve been asking a lot of questions in the lead-up to today.

“They’ve been inquiring about the well-being of our staff all the way through.

“We had a limited service offering until today, with a temporary site and a pop-up branch.”

Mr Beames said “security is paramount to us” and the branch had a completely different layout and design.

“The fundamental principles behind our security still remain in tact,” he said.

He thanked the community, emergency services and businesses for their support.

Murals featuring the Springvale Asian Gateway, local temples and parks adorn the walls inside the branch, which also features the latest technology in banking.

Staff told the Journal that customers travelled from as far away as Altona, Nunawading and Box Hill.

Each staff member can speak at least two languages, making the experience easier for migrants.

Kevin Tan speaks Cambodian and English. He was inside the bank when the fire took place.

Vanny Taing and Nhi Truong.

“It was really shocking for every one of us,” he said.

“I was getting out really panicked to see everyone crowding, people running around.”

But he was “very excited to come back”.

David Huynh was on his way to work and just outside the branch when the explosion tore through the bank.

He saw smoke coming out of the building.

“It was quite daunting, quite confronting, especially seeing the people that you work with every day stuck in that situation is quite unimaginable,” he said.

“It affected us quite deeply, but we’ve gelled together.

“We came together as a team to learn and grow from each other.

“We talk quite openly about it, try to support each other as best as we can, talk about how we

feel and ways that we can support each other.”

Mr Huynhh said returning to work at the branch was helping everyone to move on.

One customer told the Journal that the new branch was “beautiful”.

She lives within walking distance and had been eagerly awaiting its reopening.

Springvale Asian Business Association (SABA) spokesman Stan Chang praised the bank, community and emergency services for how they handled the “very sad incident” and its aftermath.

“The community appreciates the response and the way the Commonwealth Bank handled the matter,” he said.

“Commonwealth Bank is a very different kettle of fish in terms of local services.

“Totally cut off from the service, a lot of people would become a little bit lost.”

David Huynh in front of one of the new Springvaleinspired murals.

Award for her grit, resilience, hard work and consistent efforts

By Casey Neill Three budding Greater Dandenong business minds received a boost to their studies from a local real estate agency.

Facey Industrial Commercial’s Frank Facey Award is in its second year, and goes to three Year 12 students, one each from Dandenong High School, Sirius College and St John’s Regional College, who have demonstrated hard work and a consistent effort in a business subject.

They each receive a certificate and MacBook Air. Hanadi Zildzic from Sirius College, Murtaza Majidi from Dandenong High School and Beatrice Oryem from St John’s Regional College were the most recent recipients.

Facey partner and St John’s alumnus Matt O’Dea presented Beatrice with her award in March.

Facey Industrial Commercial is celebrating 100 years in Dandenong this year, and the award is named after founder Frank Facey.

Directors Mark Bond and Graham ‘Josh’ Kendall said the award was created to support local students, many of whom would contribute to Dandenong’s business community in the future.

“When Facey’s founder, Frank Facey, started his business on Pultney Street, Dandenong, 100 years ago, he was only a young man,” Mr Bond said.

“The business survived through difficult times including the Great Depression and two world wars, and has since spanned three generations 28 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 8 May, 2017

St John’s Regional College’s 2016 Frank Facey Award recipient Beatrice Oryem.

Facey Industrial Commercial partner and former St John’s student Matt O’Dea presents Beatrice with her award alongside colleague Claire Vagg.

and had a significant impact on Dandenong and the South East.

Mr Kendall, a former Dandenong High stu-

dent, said: “We didn’t want to award the dux of the school necessarily, but someone who had shown resilience and hard work despite difficulty.

“All of last year’s recipients persevered through adversity and deserve a head start in their studies.”

Beatrice demonstrated a consistent effort in her business studies while travelling to school from Warragul on the V/Line every day.

This year she’s studying a Bachelor of Global Studies, specialising in international relations, at Monash Clayton.

“In the future I hope to work for organisations such as the UN in aid work or areas such as DFAT,” Beatrice said.

SPORT The long-lost art of kicking a ball

By Nick Creely The consistent ability to kick a ball between two posts, one of the fundamentals of football, seems to be a lost art.

Goal-kicking is a concern that is having an impact on not just AFL level, but VFL, TAC Cup and local football leagues.

There have been some absolutely putrid team goal-kicking performances so far in 2017.

In Round 4 of the TAC Cup season, the Calder Cannons kicked 5.21.

Now that could be excused if both the teams playing on the day struggled to kick goals and there was a gust of wind unconducive with playing, but the Greater Western Victoria Rebels kicked 20.11.

In the very same round, the Western Jets and Gippsland Power combined for 18.36, a conversion rate of just 25 per cent - and these are supposed to be potentially AFL standard players.

This issue is just as woeful at AFL level.

In 2001, the goal-kicking accuracy across a 22-game home-and-away season was 59 per cent, brilliant and unprecedented numbers.

In 2017, the accuracy has dropped by almost 10 per cent and almost under 50 per cent, in what has been an alarming fall.

Collingwood has become the biggest culprit, going at under 40 per cent in 2017, numbers that are not befitting of elite footballers.

For players who earn in excess of $400,000 per year, this is unacceptable.

Now local level is obviously a different kettle of fish. There are fewer teams, less pressure and less running.

But a competition like the South East Football Netball League (SEFNL), which ran at 50.62 per cent goal-kicking accuracy in 2016, can still find

Doug Koop believes accurate goal-kicking is all about alignment. 167765 a way to kick with more accuracy then the professionals.

So far in 2017, the SEFNL are kicking at an impressive 53 per cent.

Compare that to the AFL, who ran at 50.10 per cent from shots on goal in 2016, and at less than that in 2017, and it makes very little sense.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Some other variables, such as angles, distance and rushed behinds need to be taken into account, but it wasn’t a problem for players a decade ago.

So what is the solution?

Well, Doug Koop of Kicking-On, who is part of a business designed to deliver high performance on-line skill improvement programs to

Shock Spoljaric move set to raise blood pressure

By Nick Creely Cranbourne premiership star and five-time Wookey Medallist Steven Spoljaric, has defected to rival club Springvale South in a major shock to the DDCA competition.

The 40-year-old, arguably the finest player to ever don the whites in the competition’s rich history, has agreed to terms at Alex Nelson Reserve for next season.

Bloods’ skipper Craig Slocombe, the man responsible for enticing Spoljaric to the club, said the signing has been in the works “for a couple of weeks”.

“He’s a professional cricketer, so I’m sure it’s just a job to him, but it’s great,” he said.

Bloods’ president Peter Lawler was thrilled with the signing, and said that the offer put in front of Spoljaric was “reasonable”.

“We’re happy - the offer was nothing over the top, but decent enough,” he said.

Cranbourne president Andy Ligt, who is also a good mate with Spoljaric, said the club has been aware for about a week that he was leaving after a mutual parting of ways, but is pretty shocked at the club that picked him up.

“I’m pretty surprised where he’s gone to, to be honest, but anyway,” he said.

“We wish Spolly all the best, he’s done some great things for our club - we thank him for his contribution, and for winning us grand finals.”

Ligt also confirmed that Matt Chasemore’s future at the club is still in limbo, after the 34year-old confirmed to Star News Group a month ago that he is toying with a return to Premier Cricket.

“Discussions are still on-going - we’re not exactly sure where we are headed as a club,” he said.

“We’re disappointed at how we finished last year, so we’re looking at making changes.”

Ligt also suggested that the club would be looking to bring in fresh talent, whether that is mature players, youth or a new-look coaching structure.

“We have to stock up a little bit - we’re also talking to a few coaches at the moment,” he said.

“It’s just an on-going process.”

Steve Spoljaric will now join the Bloods in a shock move. 164561

Picture: GARY SISSONS

footballers, weighed in on the debate.

“There’s lot of reasons why this is happening - some blokes just don’t know how to kick, fullstop,” he said.

“The capabilities of kicking a snap or a goal on the run are more about a players’ ability, so there are a lot of variables to think about.

“In regards to set-shots, my view is that a lot of players don’t understand or have a process based on alignment - effectively, they kick at the goals rather than kick through the goals - too many blokes kick at the goals and don’t get aligned.

“The other area in question is ball positioning - for example, Travis Cloke misses a lot of goals because he leans when he has a shot - as a leftfooter.

“The first thing you do when you lean is your arm instinctively sort of goes back, because if you continue to lean and fall back, your hands would sort of be back there to stop your fall - that’s the same with the kicking action.”

Although Koop, who played 44 games in the VFL/AFL with South Melbourne, North Melbourne and Melbourne, is no longer involved at the elite level, he said the drop-off is no real surprise.

“Too many players are left to their own devices - at AFL clubs, experts who are now helping out with coaching, some of them are outstanding kicks,” he said.

“Just look at Nathan Buckley - he was one of the most outstanding kicks - most people teach what they know and sometimes that’s not appropriate to the individual.

“Certainly, if you look at Travis Cloke, they’re teaching him stuff but they’re not necessarily teaching him how to kick goals, and that’s our belief.”

Blicavs signs with Rangers Dandenong Basketball Association announced on Friday that Rangers fan favourite Sara Blicavs has re-signed with the Jayco Rangers for the WNBL 2017/18 season.

Jayco Rangers coach Larissa Anderson said she was thrilled to have Sara back on board with the Rangers program for the upcoming season as she looks forward to Sara making a ‘big impact’ on the WNBL in 2017-18.

“It is fantastic to have Sara back again in a Jayco Rangers uniform, she’s really stamped her mark on the league and on our club over the past three years,” Anderson said.

“Sara continues to take her game to a new level each season and will again play a vital role for us in taking that extra step toward a championship.”

After a terrific 2016-17 regular season, finishing second overall, Sara and the Jayco Rangers just came up short of winning last year’s title, falling to the Sydney Uni Flames in a best-of-three series.

But that has only added extra fuel to the fire for Sara, telling Dandenong Basketball she cannot wait to get back out there with her Jayco Rangers team-mates.

“How could I not re-sign with the Jayco Rangers?” Blicavs said.

“We were so close to getting the championship that to not go around with Dandenong would be insane.

“I love our team, I love the association and I love our supporters; I can’t wait to get back out there and push for a WNBL title in 2017-18.”

A superstar both on and off the court, Sara will no doubt be one of the featured media stars for the WNBL in 2017-18, as the league returns to TV screens for the first time in three years as part of the league’s new contract with FOX Sports Australia.

33 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 8 May, 2017

Sport

A-League team a natural move

By Nick Creely After the exciting announcement last Thursday that the three local councils of Greater Dandenong, Cardinia and Casey will band together to bring an A-League side to the region, soccer’s growth in the south-east is one to marvel at.

With the Football Federation Australia (FFA) considering expanding the national competition, which currently has 10 sides, including one in New Zealand and two based in Melbourne, the south-east could well be the one.

Football in the south-east is booming - crowds are large and the quality is outstanding, all that was left was to bring a professional side to the area that everyone could buy into.

There are some supremely talented footballers in the south-east area plying their trade in the National Premier League (NPL), waiting for their chance. One of the first names that could be on the list when talking about a new A-League side could be Dandenong Thunder’s very own Brandon Barnes, arguably the finest striker in the state currently not on an A-League roster.

And the 24-year-old is all in for an A-League side in the south-east suburbs.

“If they tick all the criteria and get that licence, I’ll be banging on their door and try and be a part of it,” he said.

“Around this area, football is constantly getting bigger and bigger - that’s why I reckon the A-League licence could sway towards this area, just because of how many clubs are in the area - it would bring a lot of youth and a lot positive things to the area.”

As one of the fastest growing corridors in Australia, soccer has been rising steadily in the southeast, with a total of 71 clubs, which includes the City of Frankston, Mornington Peninsula and Gippsland Regions and 11,568 registered players within those clubs.

And Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti said the overall strength of football in the area and the increasing quality is reason enough to sway the FFA to accept their bid.

Brandon Barnes may well be the first local star to capture their dream if the FFA approve the south-east bid. 164362 Picture: ROB CAREW

“We respect and recognize the contribution of local football clubs to the overall strength, health and future of the game,” he said.

“As competition organisers and promoters, local clubs are the engine room of football’s expansion and therefore essential to our football vision and plans for the region.

“We want to have strong ties to our local schools and local community groups. We are a football devoted community.

“Talk of A-League expansion is creating great excitement. It’s connecting people, families, clubs, businesses and councils to one objective - bringing the A-League to our community.

“We plan to capture this momentum to create the best possible case for south-east Melbourne.”

As well as a professional A-League side, the south-east bid also includes a W-League side, the women’s national competition, as well as a youth side which is likely to see many youngsters from around the region to finally realise their dreams.

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34 DANDENONG JOURNAL Monday, 8 May, 2017

Sport

Bulls banished by Blackburn

By Nick Creely

Keysborough is emerging as a genuine threat in Division Two of the Southern Football League in 2017. 167060 Picture: NICK CREELY but were unable to convert many chances to keep them alive.

Div 3 A more competitive Dandenong 8.5 (53) has put in a spirited performance against Endeavour Hills 11.17 (83).

Marching out of the blocks, the Redlegs were irresistible early, taking a 19-point lead into quar-

ter-time, before the Eagles worked hard to bring themselves back into the contest.

Daniel Morrison (five goals) was monstorous in the comeback mission for the Eagles with a BOG performance.

Lyndhurst 9.7 (61) has pipped Black Rock 8.10 (58) in a thrilling contest at McDonald Reserve.

The game was close all afternoon, before the

Stingrays suffer one of those days from the Knights

By Nick Creely TAC CUP REVIEW - ROUND 6 For three-and-a-half quarters it was a game that belonged to the Dandenong Stingrays.

After the Rays registered the first major of the game, it seemed like a win was inevitable and the momentum was impenetrable.

The Rays were inaccurate but far more potent early, kicking 2.6 in the breeze to just a solitary point in the first-quarter, before the Knights bit back and regained some ground by half-time.

Some smooth passages of play ensured the Rays were able to climb out to a healthy fourgoal buffer, but the Knights started shutting them down once inaccuracy become an issue, zapping them of confidence and allowing the Knights all the momentum heading into the last.

Despite the Rays showing intent to score in the final quarter, the Knights, albeit from a few questionable free-kicks, were rampaging home and doing all the attacking.

Leading until the 25th minute of the fourth

The Stingrays were unable to cope with a rampaging Knights. 167722 Picture: ROB CAREW quarter, the dam walled finally burst wide open as the Knights stole victory from the jaws of defeat.

Slick moving midfielder and Knights skipper Nick Coffield finally gave them the matchwinning lead with a brilliant running goal from outside 50, before a game-saving tackle from Ollie Wilson deep in the Rays attack as they looked cer-

Lightning pulled away late to steal victory.

In other matches, Doveton Eagles 13.11 (89) were a class above Lyndale 7.6 (48), as the Eagles continue their strong form. Hallam 13.13 (91) have dominated Carrum Patterson Lakes 3.0 (18) in brutal fashion. Moorabbin 8.9 (57) just pipped South Yarra 7.10 (52) in a ripping contest.

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tain to kick a goal sealed victory.

Stingrays’ defender Angus Paterson was a shining light in the absence of a few senior heads, while Tom De Koning once again showed immense promise in his forward/ruck role, kicking three goals and competing hard around the ground.

The ultra-young Rays, missing even more cavalry than last week, were also well serviced by the impressive Tom Young and solid midfielder Will Hamill.

The Stingrays move to a 3-3 record, and face a crucial clash with Oakleigh Chargers at Shepley Oval next Sunday.

NORTH. KNIGHTS 0.1 5.3 6.3 10.9 (69) DAND. STINGRAYS 2.6 5.7 7.12 9.13 (67) Knights Goals: J.Shea 4, N.Coffield 2, J.Petrucelle, S.Binion, O.Stapelton, B.Gillard Best: J.Shea, J.Petrucelle, O.Wilson, S.Binion, J.Grace, M.Andrews Stingrays Goals: T.De Koning 3 , J.Nanscawen 3 , R.Piper, L.Young, H.Clark. Best: A.Paterson, T.Murphy, J.Davies, T.De Koning, B.Williams.

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JOURNAL FOOTBALL REVIEW Eastern Football League - Round 4 On a blustery day at the Bullring on Saturday, Noble Park’s 3.11 (29) dream start to the season came to an end, with Blackburn 8.9 (57) highly impressive in its 28-point victory.

With just a combined 86-points between the two fancied sides, the Burners got the dream start, kicking four goals to one to take a commanding 19-point lead into quarter-time.

And despite the Bulls fighting their way back into the game, the slow starting home-side paid for their early woes and were unable to find a way to get in front.

Kyle Martin was excellent for the Bulls as per usual, providing plenty of drive in the middle and also kicking one of three goals, while Ryan Morrison was once again influential in a highly impressive start to his season.

Meanwhile, Vermont 16.15 (111) has dominated a lackluster Rowville 8.7 (55) in their clash at Vermont Reserve.

With the Hawks starting the season with plenty of vigor and looking like a team-to-watch, the impressive home-side was slick with the footy and punished the Hawks’ inaccurate first-half.

Noble Park will host North Ringwood at home next week, while Rowville are at home against Doncaster.

Southern Football League - Div 2 - Round 5 Keysborough 4.10 (34) is beginning to emerge as a genuine threat, knocking off arch-rivals Caulfield 3.8 (26) in impressive fashion.

The Burras are in strong form, and in what was a tight-tussle, class and a bit of grit got them over the line.

Meanwhile, Springvale Districts 4.8 (32) have gone down to Murrembeena 7.10 (52) by 20-points.

Inaccuracy was again the enemy, with the Demons kicking 0.4 in a crucial third-quarter in which they were well and truly in the contest,

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