Dandenong Star Journal - 21st January 2019

DANDENONG

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Time to dob in a dealer

Monday, 21 January, 2019

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Legal action on ‘pit’

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Buckley’s future clouded

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Kids going goo-goo Hands are getting dirty from some young lab-rats these school holidays.

Each day up to Friday 25 January, kids are creating slime at free workshops at Armada Dandenong Plaza.

The workshops run from 11am2pm at level 2, centre court.

No bookings required.

Details: armadadandenongplaza. com.au

Amira, her brother Isaac and friend Arya make pirate-themed slime. 189101 Picture: ROB CAREW

Race attack hero

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A young train commuter from Dandenong has been praised for her courage in standing up against a racist attack against a mother and toddler.

Fahima Adan, 20, bravely stepped in as a woman allegedly shoved and abused the mum carrying her son during the city-bound train service near Westall railway station on 12 January.

The attacker accused the Muslim victim of being a terrorist and not being Australian, Ms Adan said.

"I just wanted no one to get hurt."

While other passengers sat by and filmed the incident, the woman then turned on Ms Adan. She allegedly grabbed and scratched her arm and tore off Ms Adan's hijab.

"I hate Islam," the woman screamed at Ms Adan.

Ms Adan asserted that she was Australian; the woman retorted that Ms Adan was not.

"When my scarf, my hijab was pulled off - it was the ultimate disturbing, disgusting thing to happen to anyone," a still shaken Ms Adan said.

"I don't feel protected. Even with so many people on the train, I had to protect the lady.

"This was something I've never wanted to experience."

Except the day before, Ms Adan suffered an unprovoked attack at Melbourne Central station when a cigarette packet was hurled at her head by one of two males.

"I'm still scared. I randomly break down.

"I don't know how to feel to this day."

A 39-year-old Clayton woman has since been charged with assault over the incident.

Glowing praise and tributes have poured

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Ms Adan's way on social media, as too have further Islamophobic insults.

Despite describing herself as shy, she has gone outside her comfort zone and fronted various media to send a strong message.

To stop the racist attacks. And back up good Samaritans in the same situation.

"Everyone is Australian. Everyone is a citizen. No one should be treated like that and it should be taken seriously.

"I could have been injured even worse. You never know in that situation ... When it gets to a certain point, people should do something."

Greater Dandenong councillor Matthew Kirwan wants the council to recognise Ms Adan.

Her actions had struck a cord nationwide, he said. They had even drawn surprising praise from right-wing critics on Cr Kirwan's Facebook page.

"People see this is not a topic of debate," Cr Kirwan said.

"They see this sort of behavior in Australia is unacceptable, and we should recognize Fahima for standing up against it.

"The standard you walk past is the standard you accept - and she wasn't prepared to do that."

It confirms a VicHealth survey that shows Greater Dandenong bucks the trend in its high rate of multicultural acceptance, he said.

"We as a council have run various anti-racism campaigns and encouraged resident to do exactly what she has done."

Mayor Roz Blades, while "totally appalled" by the attack, was proud of Ms Adan's intervention.

"What a brave thing to do and at her age, it shows great strength of character."

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By Cam Lucadou-Wells

NEWS

VCAT blocks double-storey homes

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Award judge Vito Cilauro, award sponsor Frank Di Blasi, Joe Rechichi, wife Teresa Rechichi, award judge Giovanna Guzzardi, Springvale Italian Senior Citizens Club president Biagio Di Blasio and wife Rita Di Blasio.

Charity hero wins Solidarity Cup

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Springvale charity stalwart Joe Rechichi has received lofty recognition from the Italian community for his immense efforts for the elderly, disabled, homeless and impoverished.

Mr Rechichi was proudly awarded the glorious 2018 Solidarity Cup, also known as the Coppa della Solidarieta.

The trophy is awarded annually to an Italian community member across Victoria for exceptional volunteer work.

Mr Rechichi was awarded for 20-plus years of tireless work as Springvale Benevolent Society’s president and volunteer, as well as 30 years coordinating the Springvale Italian Senior Citizens Club.

Prior to his award, the surprised 72-yearold retiree hadn’t heard of the Solidarity Cup, let alone that he had been nominated.

“You wonder what did I do to be nominated, and how can I fulfil the obligations of the award?

“The recognition makes me want to do more for the community.”

It’s hard to think how Mr Rechichi can do more.

Seven days a week, he is helping collect and distribute donations, vouchers and food parcels for hundreds of families and individuals in Greater Dandenong.

Uniquely, he and the benevolent society volunteers make house visits, delivering goods and checking on their clients’ welfare.

“It’s probably more than a full-time job,” he says of his entirely voluntary role.

“It’s the sort of work where the more you do, you find there’s more that needs to be done.

“I don’t believe in doing half a job. If I take a role, it’s 100 per cent.”

The demand is ever-growing. About 15 new families a week are added to the benevolent society’s 550-plus client list.

He’s deeply troubled by a sharp rise in local homelessness.

One recent and typical case is a woman in her 40s evicted from her rental home to make way for a multi-dwelling development.

“It doesn’t take long for a person to become homeless - just one little setback and they can’t catch up.”

After a total loss of federal funding, the benevolent society is totally dependent on donations.

Mr Rechichi says he’s thankful for the help of schools, banks, RSL Clubs, as well as pokies venues Club Noble and Sandown Enterntainment for filling the breach.

He defends the latter clubs for their somewhat controversial support.

“If they’re prepared to put something in the community, there’s nothing wrong with that.

“I know a lot of people disagree on it but in the long run, I can’t go without them.”

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A proposal for four double-storey dwellings at the end of a cul-de-sac near Noble Park Secondary College has been rejected by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

The plan at 16 Callaghan Street failed on the grounds of neighbourhood character and amenity, and required a re-design, VCAT member Peter Gaschk found on 15 January.

Greater Dandenong mayor Roz Blades, whose council opposed the application, said the outcome meant a "Happy New Year for Callaghan Street".

"Council was quite definite about it - it was an unsuitable development."

The site is presently occupied by a singlestorey weatherboard dwelling. Being in the Incremental Change Area, it was suitable for a “modest increase in residential density” of up to two storeys.

In his decision, Mr Gaschk rejected some of the design outcomes such as small setbacks to the sides of the property as well as a lack of “blue sky separation” between two of the dwellings.

“I therefore consider a redesign is required to address these design principles to ensure side setback areas are increased to enable more meaningful landscaping.”

The upper storeys should be “more recessive particularly in the centre and rear of the site”.

However with four on-site car spots, the development wouldn’t add to traffic concerns at the busy school precinct, Mr Gaschk stated.

“It will be important that on-site parking on the site is easily accessible, to ensure that any additional on-street parking ... is minimised.”

The applicant Kiet Anh Do had appealed to VCAT after Greater Dandenong Council refused to grant a permit in May 2018.

Seven injured in horror crash Joe Rechichi receiving food donations from a recent Springvale Neighbourhood House campaign.

186462 Picture: GARY SISSONS He has no foreseeable plans to hand over the reins. Part of the problem is finding someone prepared to fill Mr Rechichi’s considerable shoes.

“I will do it as long as I can.

“It’s a very important job.”

At 17, Mr Rechichi migrated from Italy in 1964.

He has previously won City of Greater Dandenong Citizen of the Year, the Premier’s Community Volunteering Award, Rotary Club’s Paul Harris Fellow Award and Sandown Community Superhero Award.

Solidarity Cup sponsor Frank Di Blasi said the judging panel was unanimous in its election of Mr Rechichi.

“Mr Rechichi is a most caring person and truly deserves the recognition as he typically represents a type of caring world we all would like to live in.”

Monday, 21 January, 2019

Joe Rechichi is awarded for his years of selfless service. 186462 Picture: GARY SISSONS

A woman is fighting for life and six others have been rushed to hospital after a horror crash in Springvale on Monday morning.

Eight ambulances rushed to the junction of Springvale Road and the Princes Highway at about 5am after reports of a two-car head on collision.

According to Victoria Police, six people, aged between 16 and 20 years old, were travelling in white VW sedan when the crash took place.

The car was only equipped to handle five people.

The sole occupant of the north-bound vehicle, a Parkdale man in his 40s, was also taken to hospital with injuries.

Princes Highway is closed outbound in Springvale due to debris from the collision being sprawled across the road.

A 20-year-old woman who was taken to the Alfred Hospital with injuries to her head, legs and chest - described as being the most wounded from the crash.

Meanwhile, a man was conveyed to the Royal Melbourne with head injuries but is now in a stable condition, while another was taken to Dandenong Hospital with leg injuries.

Inbound traffic on the Princes Highway is still open.

Anyone who witnessed the crash is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

IN BRIEF Man charged with endangering police chopper

Dob in a Dandy drug dealer

A man has been arrested and charged with allegedly pointing a laser at a police helicopter in Dandenong. The incident occurred about 11pm on Wednesday 16 January, police say.

A 43-year-old Hampton Park man was arrested by Dandenong police. He was charged with assaulting police, prejudicing the safe operation of an aircraft, reckless conduct endangering life and reckless conduct endangering serious injury. He was bailed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court on 22 January.

By Cam Lucadou-Wells People should have no qualms joining the latest 'Dob In A Dealer' campaign targeting the illicit drug trade.

"It doesn't necessarily mean you're dobbing in family or a friend or going behind their back," Victoria Police Acting Inspector Graeme Stanley said at the launch at Dandenong.

"You're actually supporting them.

"It can actually help them seek assistance and get the necessary help to cut their habit and have a healthy lifestyle."

For law enforcers, no snippet of public information is too small.

It is anonymous - no calls are traced or identified - and can help fill in the bigger picture of a crime investigation.

And in turn, it provides a vital stop to the supply and creation of illicit drugs like 'ice', MDMA, cocaine, heroin and cannabis by criminals and organised gangs.

A crop-house or meth lab could be at your next-door neighbour's, Insp Stanley said.

Tell-tale signs include windows blacked out, high electricity use, a characteristic 'clan lab' smell, short conversations in cars outside and people acting suspiciously at days and nights.

Acting Inspector Stanley said the campaign could help halt an increase in drug offences and clandestine meth labs in the Dandenong area in the past 10 years.

He said the local manufacturing leads to "ease of access" to illicit drugs in the area.

"That's the area we're concentrating on trying to disrupt."

Since its national launch in 2013, the Dob In a Dealer campaign has fuelled extra info on drug dealing to Crime Stoppers and Victoria Police.

During the 2016 campaign, there was an average 143 per cent rise in public information reports in Victorian locations.

Since a relaunch in City of Casey in November, 180 information reports have been lodged

Brazen carjack attempt A man has attempted to car jack a Mercedes Benz C250 in broad daylight in Dandenong CBD. The owner had got out of the parked car to enquire why the man was hovering at the vehicle's rear outside 30 Langhorne Street about 2.50pm on Friday 11 January.

The offender then got into the driver's seat and asked the owner how he could shift the seat back. Declining to assist the man, the owner rang Triple-Zero. The man fled, taking personal documents from the Benz's glovebox.

He was described as solid build, Caucasian appearance and wearing a white T-shirt.

Police wish to speak to the man, as well as a male eyewitness wearing a blue shirt, glasses and dark pants. Any information to Greater Dandenong CIU on 9767 7487 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Robbers prey in small red car

Victoria Police Acting Inspector Graeme Stanley, Greater Dandenong mayor Roz Blades and Crimestoppers Victoria marketing manager Caroline Reid at the relaunch of Dob In A Dealer. 189391 Picture: CAM LUCADOU-WELLS in Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia.

Greater Dandenong mayor Roz Blades said drug use had become unacceptable, creating social and family harms.

She urged people who knew drug users and makers to get involved.

"It's absolutely vital for this program to work."

Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Erika Owens said criminal drug activity was

not only costing millions in healthcare and law enforcement.

"It is tragically and unnecessarily costing human lives."

The program is funded by the Federal Government, and partnered by Crime Stoppers, City of Greater Dandenong and Victoria Police.

To report drug making and drug dealing, contact Crime Stoppers Australia on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.com.au

Kids trapped in hot cars warning The South East is top of a dangerous hotlist for children and pets being locked in cars.

Over the 2017-'18 summer period, there were 564 call-outs for children locked in a hot car in Victoria, according to the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority.

It equates to about six a day.

Among the most prolific suburbs were Pakenham (10), Berwick (9), Dandenong (8) and Cranbourne (7), as well as Frankston (14).

ETSA is issuing the advice that if you leave the car, take the kids with you.

ETSA operations executive director Patrick Berry said there was no excuse for parents and carers.

A car's inside temperature could be up to 30 degrees hotter than outside, he said.

Kidsafe Victoria general manager Jason Chambers said the practise was dangerous even for a short time.

"Most of the temperature rise inside a car occurs within the first five minutes and leaving the windows down has little effect on the temperature rise.

"A child's body temperature rises three to

five times faster than an adult, which places children at greater risk of suffering from dehydration and life-threatening heatstroke."

Mr Chambers advised parents to keep their keys on them at all times when packing and unpacking the car to reduce the risk of the keys getting locked in the car with a child inside.

To report a child or pet locked in the car, call triple zero (000) and state the location clearly to the operator.

If it's in a car park, provide specific details of landmarks, section names, numbers and the colour of the parking bay.

Two males in a small red vehicle have pulled over and tried to rob a driver near a building site in Springvale.

The 43-year-old Dandenong victim was overtaken and cut off by the red car on St James Avenue about noon on Monday 14 January. Armed with a knife, the red car's driver approached the victim and demanded his wallet and cash. A second male, unarmed, also demanded money.

The victim yelled, catching the attention of workers at a nearby construction site. The robbers escaped in their car, driving westwards along St James Avenue. They were described as European.

Any information to Greater Dandenong CIU on 9767 7487 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Man bashed for his phone A 20-year-old man has been repeatedly bashed during an attempted street robbery at Emerald Drive, Springvale.

The Springvale victim was on his phone during a walk when approached by two male offenders about 10pm on Saturday 12 January.

They demanded the man hand over his phone and supply a passcode to unlock it. The victim was punched several times to the face, pushed to the ground and placed in a headlock during the attack. Under repeated demands, the victim tapped in two false passcodes and was again punched in the face.

An unknown vehicle drove down Emerald Drive, which caused the robbers to pause. The victim managed to retrieve his phone but was left with bruising and swelling to his nose and cheek. The offenders, who then fled from the scene, were described as African appearance and aged in their twenties. One of them was wearing black pants, a hoodie and runners.

Any information to Greater Dandenong CIU on 9767 7487 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.

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Monday, 21 January, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 3

NEWS

Kia win’s a life-changer

Cycling students Rawa Khan and Thaveesha Basnayake at the Good Cycles training centre in Dandenong. 189305

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Learn-to-cycle course - no fears!

It's time again to get on your bikes.

Wellsprings for Women has launched a repeat of its popular Good Cycles Program, which trains women to ride a bike, pull it apart and re-assemble it.

At the end of the six-session course in Dandenong, the 11 riders get a free bike and helmet and access to the Wellsprings riders meets to practice their cycling.

There's a long waiting list of migrant and refugee women wanting to join up, says Wellsprings chief executive Dalal Smiley.

"We could not accommodate all of them in the first round.

"So we applied for a grant from (Greater Dandenong) Council and got it.

"We have to keep searching for more fund-

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The course gives riders confidence in all technical aspects of owning and riding a bike, Ms Smiley says.

"They overcome any apprehension they may have about how bikes work and how to replace a tube for a flat tyre."

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Christmas Eve was particularly joyous for shopper Mohamad Anab.

With his 20-year-old Corolla in its last days, the 38-year-old won a new $16,000 Kia Picanto hatch in a competition at Armada Dandenong Plaza.

"The car couldn't come at a better time.

"I never owned a new car so I decided I will keep the car for a few months to enjoy it. Then I'll sell it to get a bigger car for the family."

On the day of the draw on 24 December, Mr Anab drove to the Plaza with "such glee on my face".

"I was so excited just to be among the 14 finalists.

"It's probably the best odds I've been in.

"Even the speaker was surprised to how excited I was and said: 'You know you haven't won the car, there are 13 more contestants.'"

After several pass-the-parcel competitions, Mr Anab received key 12. He took a deep breath before he tried the key that unlocked the Kia's door.

"I jumped out of joy and was dancing and screaming and singing. I will never forget that day."

A grateful Mr Anab thanked Dandenong Kia and Armada Dandenong Plaza for the "life changing" prize.

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4 STAR JOURNAL

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Monday, 21 January, 2019

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Planks prop up neighbours' fences at the Roberts Street site. 189392

Picture: CAM LUCADOU-WELLS

Legal action on pit ‘mess’ A neighbouring backyard garden and fence has already subsided into the excavation what may be an unpleasant surprise for the owners reportedly away on holiday.

Other neighbours have tried to prop up their fences with planks.

In the meantime, Greater Dandenong Council says it has taken legal action against the developer. The council declined to give any detail on what action it sought.

The city's planning, design and amenity director Jody Bosman said "(the) action is ongoing and further matters will be put to the court".

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Residents say their backyards and fences are on the brink of dangerous collapse due to a deep water-logged pit at a shambolic building site in Noble Park.

Several months ago, the house at 1 Roberts Street was demolished, leaving an unsightly mess and a pit that extends within centimetres of three adjoining fencelines.

As the pit has filled with water, the ground beneath the boundary fences has perilously eroded.

Neighbouring owner Bill Madden said if the council hadn't stepped in, "all of our fences would collapse".

"We are all worried about it. The soil (in the pit) was washing away with high rains - you could see under our fence."

He said the council "shut down" works on the site. He hopes the council successfully seeks to back-fill the pit, perhaps using some of the unsightly mound of earth, piles of planks, broken pavers and other building materials on site.

The developer is believed to be in the pro-

cess of liquidation for the past two years. Its registered address leads to an apparently abandoned property in Endeavour Hills.

The Roberts Street site was been long inactive since the developer was awarded a permit by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal in 2011 to build three-storey apartments with basement parking including car stackers on the site.

The application was opposed by Greater Dandenong Council at the time.

The permit was extended in 2015.

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Monday, 21 January, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 5

LOOKING BACK

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

100 years ago

50 years ago

20 years ago

5 years ago

23 January 1919

18 January 1999 ACES STRIKE OUT

20 January 2014

Dandenong's Advancement

14 January 1969 A School with no worries

To anyone visiting Dandenong - even with its proportions and importance, its advancements and advantages - on Monday last, it would appear that it had retrograded to its primeval state.

In the early part of the day owing to the tropical nature of the temperature, hardly any water was obtainable, while by eventide the taps were dry.

Troubles never seem to come singly, for as the night drew on, those , who had electric light installed were subject to another inconvenience, for there was no light as something had evidently gone wrong at the power house and a portion of the town's circuit had been cut off.

History will be made in this district with the opening of the new Doveton North Technical School on February 5, for there will be few if ANY problems.

Compared with other local schools which suffer from cramped conditions, overcrowded classrooms and inadequate facilities. In their first year of technical education, pupils will enjoy the luxury of adequate staff and small classes and the comfort of classrooms designed and sited in a new concept. Classrooms will be furnished with a rural look in natural timber and will be linked by covered ways. The site is on 15 acres in Power Rd. Five teachers will comprise the initial staff.

Subjects will comprise a complete first year of general technical education with the theme of Citizenship, Development and Knowledge which is the school's motto.

Greater Dandenong council has struck out at plans to build an international standard baseball facility in Keysborough. The council has put the brakes on Aces Field, a $1.5 million stadium, until the release of a State Government review on the future of Victorian baseball. The comes amid rumours the Australian Baseball League (ABL) competition has hit tough financial times.

Noble Park councillor Phillip Reed won a motion to further delay the decision at a special council meeting last Thursday. The motion also requests for a quick response from the Minister for Sport and Regional Development, Mr Reynolds, in the hope that the stadium does not miss its chance to become an Olympic venue. Aces club manager Mr Steven White said he was extremely disappointed at the decision.

Springvale Botanical Cemetery has been named the best in the world for 2013.

The 422 acre Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (SMCT) site was the first cemetery outside the USA to win the American Cemetery Excellence Award.

Independent trade publication American Cemetery Magazine awarded the honour for Springvale's community engagement, innovation, performance, team spirit and ground maintenance.

Judges said the site has come a long way from a once - isolated and impoverished rural cemetery, served by a poorly-patronised mortuary train.

Cemetery tops list

Compiled by Dandenong & District Historical Society

Boomerang Theatre treat 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.

When I started my apprenticeship in the plumbing trade I would be working in the first tank shop which was in the second Godfrey shop in Foster Street.

We had to build the larger tanks out in the back paddock because they would not fit through the double doors in the brick wall below the residence.

Godfreys also had another paddock in Foster Street alongside the two, two-storey shops and residences in which we stored the finished water tanks.

From there they were taken to trucks at the railway siding to be transported all over the

JACK LOOKS

BACK JACK JOHNSON state or we plumbers put them on our trucks and took them to farms and houses and installed them.

Around 9.30am, as the young apprentice I would be regularly sent by the tank makers and plumbers over to the bakery shop to buy cakes and buns for morning smoko when the billy had boiled.

One of our favourite buildings in Thomas Street was the Boomerang Picture Theatre.

It was part of the Boomerang Building

which ran from Thomas through to Lonsdale Street.

On the Lonsdale Street side was an arcade of shops.

Moran and Cato's grocery store was next door on the right and beside them on the Walker Street corner was the Royal Hotel.

The Boomerang Theatre opened onto the Thomas Street frontage and was owned by Mr Leber.

The two frontages were connected by a laneway that ran beside the building to the right side of the theatre.

It was into this laneway that the side exit doors of the theatre opened.

One of these doors was between the stage and the front stalls.

Some of the no-hoper big kids would sit there and open the exit doors to let in a bunch of their mates, but they were usually caught

and got their arses kicked by Mr Leber or his usher.

The exit doors on the other side of the theatre opened onto a bitumen footpath alongside a paddock on the corner of Thomas and Walker streets.

The dress-circle exit door opened out onto a landing and you came down a timber stairway to the bitumen footpath.

The paddock also adjoined the back yard of the two-storey Royal Hotel, the third and last to exist in Dandenong.

The first Royal Hotel had been a couple of doors down from the Walker Street corner. It was built in the early 1850s by AW Bowman.

The second Royal Hotel was on the northwest corner of Walker and Lonsdale streets opposite the town hall and was a two-storey building.

Chandler Road Medical Clinic We are pleased to welcome Dr Trang Nguyen Dr Nguyen is a highly experienced GP, and she has special interests in women’s health, paediatrics and chronic disease management.

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6 STAR JOURNAL

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Monday, 21 January, 2019

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Getting a start in business

By Cam Lucadou-Wells With a little hand, Barbara Bradlington's longheld dream for her own photography business and reality is rapidly becoming reality.

The Eumemmerring entrepreneur is among the initial uptake of a Good Shepherd Microfinance program LaunchMe to help low-income earners start their own business.

It has helped get Ms Bradlington's "business brain into gear" - such as marketing herself, upgrading her training, making a business plan and setting up a website.

She had felt daunted about pursuing her business dream ever since graduating in media arts and production 20 years ago.

"I will be working more for myself and less for other people," she said.

"It's teaching me everything about running a business."

She gets regularly mentored in how to build her enterprise, specialising in photos at corporate gigs, events and functions.

Good Shepherd also provided her a lowinterest loan for equipment and to convert her brother's caravan into a mobile studio for "old-style" photos.

Launched in October, the three-year pilot program will assist 240 people in Dandenong, Doveton and the Latrobe Valley with business training, coaching and microfinance.

It had already been operating successfully in South Australia for 12 months.

The State Government has invested $2.6 million from its Community Revitalisation Program.

Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said aspiring entrepreneurs would get the support they need to "follow their dreams" and create local jobs.

"So many people in Dandenong have great business ideas but aren't sure how to get them off the ground.

"This pilot will help give them everything they need to turn that idea into a thriving business."

Barbara Bradlington with her LaunchMe microenterprise coach Yvette Hayes. 187009

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

LEAVE EARLY The reasons are black and white

There’s no questioning the facts. Bushfires can start quickly and threaten lives within minutes. When it comes to fire, what you need to do is black and white.

Check Fire Danger Ratings in your district daily, and monitor conditions.

Most bushfire deaths happen close to home, so on high-risk fire days, leaving early, before a fire starts, is always the safest option.

emergency.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

Download the VicEmergency app 12409889-CB4-19

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Monday, 21 January, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 7

NEWS

Rich tribute to historic lane

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Artist Brett Ashby has brightened a grey Dandenong laneway as part of the Transformed temporary public art program.

Boyd Lane’s bare walls were brought to life with deftly-painted keywords and coloured blocks on its walls, doorways and pavement.

It enlivens a thoroughfare for more than 1000 pedestrians a day between Palm Plaza and Lonsdale Street.

“There’s a lot of development, a lot of growth and a lot of multiculturalism - it’s something I’m interested in,” Ashby says.

He took inspiration from the area’s rich commercial history, including the Boyd family who owned Gippsland Hardware Company next to the lane.

The mural includes the ‘Golden Mile’ slogan, harking back to Lonsdale Street’s boom days.

Its technicolour palette also reflects Ashby’s well-received public artwork Cube Lane - which decorates a disused substation on Mason Street.

The challenge was to enrich a 60-metre laneway that had been blighted by graffiti and rubbish.

Ashby had a limited budget to celebrate the surrounding olden architecture.

So he split his mural up into eight separate elements that stretch the alley’s length.

Ashby works and lives in Melbourne and London. His previous works include Autumn Place, Doveton, Casey Fields rugby pavilion in Cranbourne East and Mornington.

As well as an international art career, he also played defender for Dandenong Thunder Soccer Club firsts.

The Transformed program aims to add colour and vibrancy to Greater Dandenong’s public spaces, and make them more welcoming.

Artist Brett Ashby with his eyecatching tribute to hardware proprietor Reg Boyd. 189041

OZROCk at the dogs

Picture: ROB CAREW

Thursday 24th January 2019

celebrate AUSTRALIA DAY early before the holiday long weekend

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a great night of greyhound action !

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Monday, 21 January, 2019

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The Smashed Project has visited Greater Dandenong schools as part of a national tour.

Dramas of ‘getting smashed’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells The Smashed Project is proof that learning can be entertaining - even on the serious issue of underage drinking.

Theatre-in-education group Gibber Australia visited Hampton Park and Lyndhurst secondary colleges late last year as part of a national tour that’s reached 140 schools and 30,000 Year 8 and 9 students.

Students don’t want to be lectured on “this stuff”, says Gibber Australia chief executive Tim Watt. “It talks in a language they understand, and in a way that entertains and engages them.”

The show aims for relevance. It portrays “pretty ordinary” teen characters in a slice of life, tackling the pressures to “fit in” and to “look cool”. The play ends with an accident that has

long-term consequences.

The students then take part in interactive workshops, examining the choices made in the play’s “sliding doors” moments.

Effectively, they’re advising each other on the dangers and the consequences, Mr Watt said.

Months down the track, sometimes the actors get a hint of the impact they have.

Such as a student in the audience who stops her binge drinking and summons the courage to seek help.

In a post-audience survey, 85 per cent said they were unlikely to drink alcohol underage.

But overall, the stats aren’t as bad as people think. According to official surveys, less underage Australians were drinking or taking part in the binge culture of generations gone by, Mr Watt said.

BUSINESS PROFILE

12409297-HM04-19

Australia Day prayers On the weekend of 25 to 27 January 2019, Catch The Fire Ministries will be hosting four special meetings in Hallam.

The first meeting will be held on Friday 25 January at 7pm. The second meeting is scheduled for Saturday 26 January at 6pm and there will be two meetings on Sunday 27 January at 10am and 6pm.

The meetings will feature guest speaker from the United States Reverend Donnie Swaggart and host Reverend Dr Daniel Nalliah.

The official opening and welcome will be delivered by Deputy Mayor of the City of Casey Cr Rosalie Crestani.

“It’s a time to celebrate our nation,“ said Cr Crestani.

“Prayers will offered for our armed forces, SES, CFA, ambulance workers and governments.“ Cr Crestani said further prayers would be offered to ask for protection from terrorism

Host Reverend Danny Nalliah.

Guest speaker Donnie Swaggart.

and natural disasters like bush fires.

“Ensure to bring your Australian flag and join hundreds of others in singing our Australian national anthem, Advance Australia Fair.

“Invite your friends and family and God bless Australia.“ Catch the Fire Ministries is at 30 Star Crescent, Hallam.

12409257-CB2-19

10 STAR JOURNAL

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Monday, 21 January, 2019

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

property

TRY TOWNHOUSE LIVING PAGE 12 Monday, 21 January, 20195 February, 2018

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The home boasts high ceilings, timber look flooring and bright interiors. The open plan design comprises a kitchen, meals and living area, downstairs master bedroom with built-in robes and a dual access bathroom.

The crisp white kitchen is paired with a walk-in pantry and laundry to help make busy family living a breeze. â—?

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Prospective purchasers are requested to take such action as is necessary, to satisfy themselves of any pertinent matters.

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Monday, 21 January, 2019

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com.au

Monday, 21 January, 2019

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STAR REAL ESTATE

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FOCUS ON …

MEDICALLY SPEAKING Hippy new year!

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Orthopaedic care is expanding in Berwick with St John of God Berwick Hospital set to open a brand new unit specialising in treating injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system.

Hippy 2019 It will be a hippy new year for orthopaedic patients in Melbourne’s South-East.

Orthopaedic care is expanding in Berwick with St John of God Berwick Hospital set to open a brand new unit specialising in treating injuries and diseases of the body’s musculoskeletal system.

A first for the hospital, the new orthopaedic unit will open in February and is currently recruiting compassionate caregivers to join its growing team.

The fourth-floor ward has been left empty since the opening of the new hospital in January 2018 to accommodate future growth. It was not anticipated to be needed for the first few years of operation; however, local demand has seen it necessary to offer further orthopaedic services to the residents of Melbourne’s southeast.

The ward has the capacity for 28 beds and will primarily focus on orthopaedic and neurosurgical patients.

The new unit sees the beginning of an emphasis on orthopaedic services. The hospital’s MAKO robot, currently used for partial knee replacements, will be utilised for full knee replacements in 2019.

“It is reassuring for local patients to know that not only do they have access to this technology so close to home, but they can access rehabilitation under the same roof,” a St John of God spokesperson said.

“The hospital celebrates the launch of complete orthopaedic care and rehabilitation offering convenience for both patients and their families. Hip, hip, hooray!”

To find an orthopaedic surgeon, visit www. sjog.org.au/find-a-doctor.

Immunisation for children and pregnant women

Getting people moving for over 100 years.

Experience maters.

p: 8784 5000

sjog.org.au/berwick

DANDENONG Dermatology Centre E X C E L L E N C E

I N

D E R M AT O L O G Y

&

L A S E R

Doveton Medical Centre stocks all childhood immunisations and recommended vaccines during pregnancy. staff to discuss health needs with one of their doctors. Phone 9792 4060 or book online at www.dovetonmedicalcentre.com.au.

Dr Ravi Wijesekara Dr Priyanthi Gunawardana Opening Hours: Mon-Frid 8.30am-7pm Sat 8.30am-1pm

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Immunisation from an early age protects children from serious childhood infections that can threaten their lives.

The government funds these vaccines and they are available for all children free of charge.

Immunisation against whooping cough and influenza is recommended during pregnancy from 28 weeks.

Antibodies transfer from Mum to baby giving vital protection until the baby can be immunised at six weeks.

Doveton Medical Centre stocks all childhood immunisations and recommended vaccines during pregnancy.

Make an appointment with the friendly

Orthopaedic & Spinal unit opening Feb 2019

Dandenong Dermatology Centre Practice Nurse and Laser Practitioner, Marie Lebrasse now operates as Vitalase Skin and Laser Clinic for Dandenong Dermatology Centre. Marie has been practice Nurse at Dandenong Dermatology Centre since 2001 and over that time has regularly studied, upgraded and updated her nursing and laser skills. Most recently she has achieved her Graduate Diploma of Cosmetic Nursing whilst continuing as our caring Practice Nurse and trusted Laser practitioner.

WHAT’S NEW?

Bulk Billing/Walk Ins Welcome

Anti wrinkle injections: The role of anti wrinkle injections is to relax wrinkle causing muscles, thereby softening and preventing the development of expression lines, creating a smooth and rejuvenated appearance. Wrinkles often appear around the forehead and eyes when we smile or frown and these areas can be treated along with crow’s feet, using a well studied safe medication that suits all skin types, administered only by our qualified medical professional.

Doveton Medical Centre

Skin Needling: Skin needling is a skin rejuvenation treatment that helps stimulate collagen and elastin to promote smoother, healthier skin through a natural healing process. This treatment is suitable for all skin types and is designed to support skin regeneration to help conditions including acne scars, surgical scars/scarring, stretch marks, fine lines, pigmentation, enlarged pores, blackheads and mild textural irregularities and is suitable for treatment during the summer months.

80 Power Road Doveton 3177 03 9792 4060

Laser, radio frequency and intense pulse light: Laser, radio frequency and intense pulse light is used to treat conditions related to skin damage and premature aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, redness, acne scars, broken capillaries, pigmentation, melasma, age spots and general photo rejuvenation. Non ablative skin rejuvenation uses radio frequencies to improve the appearance of wrinkles, brown spots and minor scars by creating heat in the skin with out injuring the surface of the skin. The heat generated promotes collagen production which results in tighter, healthier, younger Iooking skin. Treatments are suitable to most skin types.

The first consultation is complimentary (free) by appointment only with cosmetic Nurse, Marie Lebrasse@ Vitalase Skin and Laser Clinic at Dandenong Dermatology Centre, 1/110 David Street, Dandenong 3175 Tel: 9791 3455 201808156702_1-DJ35-18

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Monday, 21 January, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 17

WHAT’S ON Dandenong libraries. Entries close at 9pm Tuesday 29 January, with prizes presented on 2 February at Dandenong Library.

Morning songtime Musical theatre star Michael Cormick performs from his favourite shows and shares stories of the great composers and directors he has worked with here and overseas. His repertoire includes songs from Phantom of the Opera, Beauty and the Beast, The Boy from Oz and Les Miserables.

Thursday, 21 February 10.30 at Drum Theatre, cnr Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Details: drumtheatre.com.au

Australia Day festival More than 11,000 are expected at Greater Dandenong's award-winning Australia Day Festival.

The all-ages festival has live music, arts and crafts workshops, roving performers, rides (cost between $2 and $6), family activities and food and market stalls.

This year's line-up also includes acrobatics, cultural performances, Freeza performances, acclaimed children's act The Kazoos, and fireworks at 9.25pm with live music from the Stereo Stars Feature Band.

Saturday, 26 January 3pm-9.30pm at Dandenong Park, Pultney Street Dandenong. Details: greaterdandenong. com/australiaday

·

Holiday movies For $5, sit back and watch a new release at Reading Cinema, Dandenong. It's part of City of Greater Dandenong's Spectacular Summer Holiday Program 2019. Open to ages 12-25.

Bookings essential at a Greater Dandenong customer service centre.

Thursday, 24 January 9am-noon. Meet at Youth and Family Services, 39 Clow Street, Dandenong. Details: 9793 2155.

Join the 27th annual Springvale Lunar New Year Festival - a fusion of Asian culture, traditions and more than 80 market stalls.

The Buckingham Avenue shopping precinct will be transformed into a colourful, vibrant space including lion dancing, firecrackers, children's rides and games, a live band and Asian cuisines.

Fireworks at 9pm. Patrons are encouraged to take public transport to the event.

Sunday, 3 February 10am-10pm at Springvale shopping precinct, Springvale. Details: 0466 021 916 or 9898 3918.

·

Add your voice Voices of Casey are currently recruiting for new members to sing with them for 2019. If you are interested in joining this vibrant group, please come on February 4.

They practice each Monday, excepting school holidays at Fiddlers Green Retirement village, 57 Gloucester Ave, Berwick from 7-9.30pm.

Our Music Director is Dr. Jonathon Welch AM. (Choir of Hard Knocks fame). Concerts scheduled so far are: May 11 "Songs my Mother taught me" and November 24 at Bunjil Place singing out against Family Violence.

In addition we will join all other choirs under the "Play it Forward" banner and perform en masse

at the Melbourne International Singers Festival on the June long weekend and September 8 and December 8 at Deakin Edge.

This is a non-audition choir, attracting enthusiastic amateurs as well as seasoned singers.

Our repertoire includes well known classics, pop songs and contemporary compositions.

For further information please contact Paulien on 0412 741 195 or maritimes.1@hotmail. com.

·

Kids craft mornings Kids can decorate their own pencil case, ready for kindergarten, school or home at free activities mornings at Armada Dandenong Plaza.

First 20 accompanying parents receive a free coffee voucher from Degani.

Thursday, 17 January and Friday, 25 January, 10am-1pm at Armada Dandenong Plaza, level 3 (near Degani). No bookings required.

·

Slippery slime Workshop Armada Dandenong Plaza is rolling out some free goey fun over the January school holidays with a spectacular DIY slime making workshop.

Let the kids get messy each day making a different coloured slime to take home.

DIY slime making activities are extremely popu-

V

LOOKING FOR A NEW CHALLENGE? WANT TO WORK LOCALLY?

·

Market murals At Dandenong Market, street artist Dan Wenn from 90 Degrees Graffiti is creating a mural of a bird family with a number of quirky elements.

Such as mother bird with hair rollers and a chick with a Mohawk.

A second mural is taking shape on the wall of The Bazaar. It includes worldly artefacts such as a 'Kendama' Japanese wooden game, a vintage phone, Gummi Bear lolly and Humpty Dumpty.

Meanwhile the Market is open for Christmas Eve trading for last-minute shoppers.

Summer Reading Club Australian children's author Patrick Guest launched this year's Summer Reading Club at Greater Dandenong libraries. This year's theme is based around 'curious creatures'.

The national program is aimed at children aged 5 to 13. It has averaged 1000 participants in Greater Dandenong in recent years.

Registration forms available at Springvale and

·

or apply online at

www.fermax.com.au

LABOURER WANTED For live poultry transport, casual position, 5-6 days p/w, with the option to go full time, early starts, heavy work, may be required to work some weekends. Must have drivers licence.

Only persons with a stable work history need apply. Please Call 5942 9277. Pakenham.

WELDER Required for structural steel fabrication factory.

Must have overhead crane experience.

Able to work to a high standard.

Contact 0417 303 594 During work hours

A weekly two-course lunch is provided by Hampton Park United Church, with the support of City of Casey. All welcome.

Thursdays, 12noon at 1 Coral Drive Hampton Park. Details: 9799 7994

·

Playgroup A Friday morning playgroup is held at Hampton Park Uniting Church. Includes morning tea.

Fridays, 9.30am-11.30am (during school terms) at 1 Coral Drive Hampton Park. $3 child, $5 family. Details: 9799 7994

·

Professional

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

12386920-RA19-18

V

V

Positions Vacant

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR Required to operate 5 & 21 tonne excavator.

Must be experienced in all aspects of earthmoving.

Contact Peter 0418 560 247

QUALIFIED HEAVY VEHICLE DIESEL MECHANIC Qualified Heavy Vehicle Diesel Mechanic wanted in Nar Nar Goon. Must be self motivated.

Able to work in a team. Must be punctual. Variety of vehicles.

Servicing, minor and major repairs, engine, gear box, diff and suspension overhauls. Electrical work and fault finding.

Opportunity for training as our business expands into specialised fields. Resume can be Emailed to: collier.mechanical@ hotmail.com or Contact: Benn Collier 0418 998 263

General Classifieds section of Network Classifieds.

Motoring

Positions Vacant V

NEED

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Motor Vehicles

NEW STAFF?

Motor Vehicles

FORD Laser GIA, hatchback, 1987, manual, maroon, VGC, 1 lady owner. New tyres, battery, radiator, muffler, reg to 08/19, DET-165. $3,500ono. 9546 5850.

FORD Falcon SE 2001 utility, auto, body work and motor in good order, reg Feb 2019, XEW955, no RWC, $2,500, Ph: 0403 717 358

Get 10% Discount Use code: EMPDISC

Fill your position online ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX V

Education & Tuition

Integration Aide Training CHC30213 CERTIFICATE III IN EDUCATION SUPPORT Berwick Rowville Chirnside Park

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Mandy Clark - Advertising Sales Manager salescareers@starnewsgroup.com.au

Free community lunch

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

1300 654 910

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Send your application letter and resume to

·

V

Positions Vacant

Call us on

Must be able to do form work.

A good finisher of concrete.

Call Joe: 0427 439 456

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open-ended commission scheme.

This group offers help and support to family and friends of problem drinkers. Meetings are weekly at Endeavour Hills, Dandenong, Springvale and Dandenong North.

Mondays from 10a.m at the Andrews Centre, corner Hanna Drive and Heatherton Road .

Endeavour Hills, Wednesdays from 8.15pm at Seminar room 2 at Dandenong Hospital, David Street, Fridays from 10.30am at Springvale Church of Christ, corner Buckingham and Windsor avenues and Saturdays at St Gerard's Community Centre, 71 Gladstone Road, Dandenong North.

Details: 1300 252 666 or visit www.al-anon.org. au

Walkers Wanted

CONCRETOR

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

·

Al-Anon Family Groups.

www.networkclassifieds.com.au

0417 303 594

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Artist Jon Campbell celebrates the Australian vernacular with a series of installations at Dandenong Civic Centre. The 24-hour displays feature paintings of expressions like "blah blah blah", "bewdy", "dunno", "snot block" and "livin' the dream".

The paintings are in Garnar Lane, Dandenong.

During work hours

We are currently looking to grow our Pakenham-based team.

Experience is not essential as full ongoing training will be given.

However, enthusiasm, dedication and motivation are required to join our highly successful sales team.

section of Network Classifieds.

Livin the dream

Make Extra $$$ in your spare time to support your income or for fitness, by becoming a reliable and enthusiastic independent distributor delivering local newspapers and leaflets in your local neighbourhood.

Required for structural steel fabrication.

Must be able to read drawings and be able to operate on overhead crane.

Must be experienced in structural steel.

Please call:

Star News Group is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

Trades & Services

V

Positions Vacant

BOILERMAKER/ STEEL FABRICATOR

Come and join our progressive media company working across our print, magazine, digital, social and online platforms.

Local professionals in our

The Dandenong & District Historical Society will be in recess from 12 noon Wednesday 5 December 2018. It will resume on Wednesday 6 February 2019.

Place your ad in print and online

Positions Vacant

Connecting people & communities

·

History break

lar with kids of all ages on YouTube so this free school holiday workshop is sure to be a big hit.

Monday 14 January to Friday 25 January (week days only), 11am -2pm daily at Level 2, Centre Court at Armada Dandenong Plaza. No bookings required.

Employment V

Endeavour Hills Neighbourhood Centre is taking enrolments for 2019 for its 3-year-old pre-kinder.

Details: 9700 3789 or www.ehillsnc.org.au.

·

·

Lunar New Year Festival

3 year old pre-kinder

Semester 1 training starts in February 2019

TOYOTA HIACE Commuter, 2000, 2.4L petrol injected, 12 seater, 5 speed manual, serviced regularly, excellent condition, RWC. 288,000kms. IOE-5YB. $9,500. Drouin. 0412 841 999.

FORD Focus 2010. Great car, one owner from new, very good condition inside and out, very reliable, runs great, perfect for first car buyer, tinted windows, RWC, 2 keys, some service history including last major service, black/ grey interior. You won't be disappointed, first to see will buy.

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Buy & Sell in our

Motoring

Government funding can be accessed for all eligible students.

Triscott Educational Services info@triscott.com.au www.triscott.com.au PO Box 1246, Healesville 3777 Phone: 5962 2848 / 5962 4796

section of Network Classifieds.

VOLKSWAGEN Golf, 2010, Turbo Diesel, 2Lt, Auto, immaculate, Reg. 12/2018, RWC, ZZA-510, $10,800. 0433 175 066

Monday, 21 January, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 21

SPORT

Buckley’s future clouded

By Nick Creely Dandenong District powerhouse Buckley Ridges faces an uncertain future and increased pressure from council to relocate in the coming years after safety concerns were raised due to the overlapping of its home base, Park Oval and another ground.

It is understood that council initially advised the club at a meeting last Thursday morning that they would be required to play at nearby Greaves Reserve 4 for a select number of matches, to alleviate concerns that someone would be hit by a cricket ball playing on the overlapping oval, according to a risk assessment report.

When given the chance to defend the club, De Silva highlighted several factors, such as the fact that the two clubs have played side by side for three decades, citing issues with other grounds in the Metro region, the extremely strong junior program that has been developed, as well as a lease agreement for the year and their successful refugee program as rea-

Buckley Ridges will remain in its iconic home until at least the end of the season. 189071 Picture: CATHERINE SMITH sons why they should not be booted out.

The council had a follow up meeting that afternoon, and advised the club shortly after that they would try and work together to mitigate the risks so it won't disrupt the current season. On Friday morning, the council contacted the club to advise that they will remain at their iconic home, for at least this season, however.

De Silva told the Journal that the club was disappointed with the entire process, but confirmed that cricket wouldn't be impacted this season, which is a slight sigh of relief.

"Everything will go ahead as per normal, and they will look at everything and reconsider their stance and any precautions to be taken," he said.

"Cricket's been played on those ovals for almost 40 years, and nothing's happened, and it is strange timing to try and move us midseason."

De Silva said the club will make a strong move to claim Wilson Oval, which was used by the club prior to Dandenong's thirds and fourths, but admitted the future of the powerhouse is in the air, with the club seeing its long-term future being in the City of Casey.

"We'll keep fighting as we go along - the future is really uncertain," he said.

"We've approached Casey council, and they won't put on turf grounds for 10 years - but we see our future in the Casey area."

De Silva also said that finding a solution

will be a long process, with potential moves to Greaves Reserve or a merger with a fellow DDCA club all possibilities.

Director of Community Services for the City of Greater Dandenong, Martin Fidler, said that the council simply complied with Cricket Australia guidelines.

"To ensure compliance with the Cricket Australia Community Infrastructure Guidelines, council undertook an audit of all cricket grounds in the municipality," he said.

"As a result of the audits council met with three local cricket clubs to discuss the outcomes of the audit and to discuss options for allowing the continuity of play for the existing season.

"Council is committed to working with the clubs and has not directed or requested that the clubs move or reschedule games. Options have been discussed with the clubs to ensure the games for the remainder of the current season can continue at existing grounds and council and the clubs are meeting to discuss longer term solutions for the next season."

Thundering towards a big NPL season

By Hayley Wildes The Dandenong Thunder's NPL Vic 2018 season certainly didn't go to plan. In 2019, with club legend Veton Korcari calling the shots after taking over head coaching responsibilities midway through last season, there's a newfound edge and desire within the Thunder.

Thunder superstar and 2018 NPL Vic Golden Boot winner, Brandon Barnes knows that the squad can't afford another slow start in 2019.

"We definitely need to get off to a better

start in 2019 - obviously last year we had a very tough start and we didn't win for the first seven or so games," he said.

"We just need to make sure that we start off well, so that we're in the mix early and just go from there.

"Hopefully we can at least stay inside that top six which is our aim this year."

Barnes, who didn't just win the Golden Boot last season, he absolutely blew away the rest of the competition, finishing with 22 goals

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MAJOR SERVICE & TUNE-UP

•฀Engine฀oil฀change฀5฀Ltr • Oil filter change • Inspect Spark Plugs •฀Oil฀ilter฀change • New contact points •฀Inspect฀Spark฀Plugs • New wiper blades • Check hoses and clamps •฀New฀contact฀points • Pressure test cooling system • Check & adjust all fan belts •฀New฀wiper฀blades • Check PVC Valves •฀Check฀hoses฀and฀clamps • Inspect battery • Inspect charging system •฀Pressure฀test฀cooling฀system • Check clutch operation •฀Check฀&฀adjust฀all฀fan฀belts • Full mechanical & electrical report •฀Check฀PVC฀Valves •฀Inspect฀battery •฀Inspect฀charging฀system •฀Check฀clutch฀operation •฀Full฀mechanical฀&฀electrical฀report

• Check transmission oil level ••฀Check฀transmission฀oil฀level Check differential oil level ••฀Check฀differential฀oil฀level Inspect fuel lines • Grease front end ••฀Inspect฀fuel฀lines Check all tyres ••฀Grease฀front฀end Inspect brake pads and discs • Inspect front & rear suspension ••฀Check฀all฀tyres Inspect steering system • Inspect exhaust system ••฀Inspect฀brake฀pads฀and฀discs Inspect all seat belts ••฀Inspect฀front฀&฀rear฀suspension Check all lights • Road test

•฀Inspect฀steering฀system •฀Inspect฀exhaust฀system •฀Inspect฀all฀seat฀belts •฀Check฀all฀lights •฀Road฀test

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

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for the year, six ahead of runner-up Matthew Thurtell from Bentleigh Greens.

After such a great season for Barnes, his focus to improve individually has been on one facet of his game in particular.

"My main focus this year has been fitness," he said.

"I believe in my ability to always score goals, so just mainly my fitness levels and trying to improve that to make sure I'm prepared for a season against great teams."

Being prepared for a season against great teams has been driven by Korcari and Barnes believes everyone is on board and trusting the processes put in place.

"Veton is a club legend, everyone has taken to him really well and he's got the respect of everyone around the club," he said.

"Even with new assistant coach, John Floros - it's pretty well known in the game of what he brings to the changeroom and on the pitch.

"All of us are adjusting to it really well and we just can't wait to get started."

The Thunder have had a couple of preseason hit-outs and Barnes highlighted a 3-1 win against Heidelberg at home as a real positive.

"We played really well, and it was a great step to see where we are and where we want to be." He said.

Improving on last season is the aim for the Thunder and they know getting contributions from every player is key to that.

"The main focus really has just been making sure that the whole squad is leading - we don't like to single out any responsibilities," he said.

"Just making sure that the 11 on the pitch are leading and we've got the remainder of the

squad that can come on and make an impact from the sidelines."

That improvement will also come from some massive additions to the Thunder. The likes of Peter Skapetis, a 23-year-old Central Coast Mariner with international experience, Kieran Dover, a 21-year-old making his return to George Andrews Reserve after spending time with the Melbourne Victory and Christian Cavallo, a 22-year-old who has spent time with Melbourne City.

Their resumes speak for themselves and Barnes may have summed up the Dandenong's recruiting best; "The Thunder are not really messing around this year with signings and hopefully we can get the job done."

With a tough, but successful, preseason almost complete, Barnes is ready to get into the real stuff and has his sights set on that round 1 fixture against Hume City.

"I'm pretty fed up with preseason," he said.

"I just want to get started and get down to business - I can't wait for the 16th of February."

Proud supporter

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WHAT’S ON this week

Thunder superstar Brandon Barnes in action last season. 177940 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Dandenong Stadium - 270 Stud Road Dandenong 3175 Phone: 9794 7192 22 STAR JOURNAL

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Monday, 21 January, 2019

Open Mon – Sun 9am – 11pm dandenong.starcommunity.com.au