Dandenong Star Journal - 25th February 2019

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The first supper PAGE 3

Monday, 25 February, 2019

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Price of fish PAGE 4

A night to remember for the Saints

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Property Lift out

SPORT

Great walls of Amazon

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Don’t miss all the local news

A Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce group is led through the Amazon fulfillment centre.

Picture: SUPPLIED Then the tour groups saw the mind-boggling rows and rows of shelves that cover much of the 24,000-square-metre floor.

The shelving system that houses seemingly unrelated items together seems like chaos.

But we are assured there’s science behind it.

It ensures space efficiency and a greater va-

riety of goods being close to hand for the staff ‘pickers’.

Another surprise was that robots don’t retrieve the products. Humans retrieve them on foot guided by software that shows the most direct route.

Continued on page 2

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No car keys. No phones. No bags. No photography.

Security was cordial but tight as Star News joined members of Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce for a rare look ‘under the hood’ at Amazon’s Dandenong South warehouse.

Until now, journalists - despite their requests - had not been inside the online behemoth’s ‘fulfillment centre’ MEL 1.

It’s understably protective of its trade secrets but not shy of its customer-centric language such as ‘fulfillment centre’.

Multiple slogans such as ‘Customer Obsession’ are emblazoned on the staffroom’s wall.

“We’re absolute that we keep that promise every day,” Australian operations manager Robert Bruce tells us.

He tells us Dandenong South was chosen as the first Australian base because of “great infrastructure” and “great talent”.

Particular pride is taken in its multicultural workforce, he says.

“We’re here for the long-term.”

Then it was on with the tour to see “what happens when you click on that button on that application”.

Prior to entering, visitors’ mobile phones, car keys and bags were boxed up and sealed as if they were to be shipped off with the orders.

Thankfully, they were delivered back to their owners on the way out.

NEWS

Stolen smoko

Apartment tower for Herbert Street

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A towering apartment building has been given the green-light among predominantly onestorey homes in Dandenong.

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal approved the 13.1-metre, four-storey building on a corner site at 58 Herbert Street, overruling City of Greater Dandenong's objections.

The site lies just outside the Central Dandenong activity centre, but within the Residential Growth Zone schedule 2 - which allows buildings of up to four storeys.

Tribunal member Philip Martin, on 20 February, noted the council's objections that the 10-dwelling proposal with a penthouse-style topstorey was an excessively bulky overdevelopment.

It was not in keeping with neighbourhood character, the council had argued.

After inspecting the site on Dandenong Market day, Mr Martin stated there was a "legitimate debate to be had" on whether the building was a "reasonable fit".

He assessed the proposal against the "anticipated more intense neighbourhood character" as the area became redeveloped.

Being on the corner of Market Street with vehicle access from two sides, it was more suitable for denser housing, Mr Martin stated.

"I consider that the site and immediate area have some unusual characteristics, which make it suitable for the significant degree of change involved in a four storey building.

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

"It is naive and unrealistic for anyone to expect the existing built form to remain as-is longer term.

"It seems fair to say that much of the existing built form in Market Street has a rather tired and run-down appearance, and hence I expect that there will be a major 'turnover' of built form ... in the relatively short term."

The design was "thoughtful" and "respectful" with no unacceptable impacts on the westernside neighbour, Mr Martin stated.

The proposal included 22 car park spaces within the ground level of the building. Eight of them were on car stackers.

"I see this arrangement as more unusual but not a reason to refuse the proposal," Mr Martin said.

An unknown person has foiled an attempted robbery of a worker on a ‘smoko’ break at Dandenong Hospital.

The 56-year-old staff member, of Reservoir, was smoking outside the hospital on David Street about 6.30pm on Monday 18 February when she was approached by two females.

One of the offenders, described as 155 centimetres, Asian appearance and aged in her early-mid twenties, asked for a cigarette.

The victim declined, saying she didn’t have any.

The second offender, described as 175 centimetres, African appearance and aged in her early-mid twenties, then tried to grab the cigarette from the victim’s mouth.

The victim fell to the ground and was punched to the head.

While on the ground, one of the attackers tried to grab the staff member’s phone from her hand.

An unknown witness intervened, causing the offenders to flee without any of the victim’s property.

Funding crunch for family violence ‘first responder’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

12404323-DJ46-18

Wellsprings for Women regards itself as a "first responder" to family violence.

However from August, its family violence service is facing an uncertain future with its federal funding coming to an end.

"We will be pursuing other sources of funding to build on our existing work," chief executive Dalal Smiley said.

The group has seen a growing number of women living in or escaping family violence.

Some abused women, who are not ready

to leave the relationship, miss out on support from specialised family violence services, she said.

"Especially women from migrant, refugee or asylum seeker backgrounds face enormous barriers to leaving a violent relationship."

The barriers include full financial dependence on their partners, being on a spouse's visa or not having support networks.

Ms Smiley said the service will help any woman who needs help. Its priority is to make sure the woman and her children are safe.

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Wellsprings secured federal funding in late 2017 to design and run a program on gender equality, respectful relationships and prevention of violence against women.

"We hope to continue supporting migrant and refugee women who are experiencing family violence by facilitating safe and supportive pathways to specialized family violence services," Ms Smiley said.

Wellsprings for Women staff consult with a family-violence client. 190449 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Great walls of Amazon From front page Our tour guide tells us that on an average eight-hour shift, a picker could cover 25 kilometres.

Like any other warehouse, they are expected to meet ‘target times’, our guide says. The workers have no need for gym memberships, he jokes.

It’s an operation finely tuned for prompt deliveries - something the company prides itself on.

Each order, each workstation is tracked on a six-screen Command Centre in the heart of the warehouse.

The in-house imaging studio captures photos of every item for much of the online catalogue.

The photos must be clear and detailed, so customers know exactly what they’re ordering, we’re told.

Here, even the flat-pack items are assem-

bled for imaging. And then carefully disassembled and repacked for sale.

There have been accusations of it being a ‘cultish’ regime with punishing performance targets, low pay rates and high casualization of the workforce.

“We don’t recognise these allegations as an accurate portrayal of activities in our buildings,” Amazon tells us after the tour.

A spokesperson stated it had a “mixture of permanent and agency staff”, “reasonable” productivity targets and “above award rates”.

During the cheery tour, business guests had glowing impressions of the “smiling, friendly and helpful” staff on hand. There was fascination in the productive culture and systems.

Even a short glimpse makes you appreciate that Amazon is another world from many other workplaces.

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Monday, 25 February, 2019

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NEWS

IN BRIEF Gang of five in Noble Park carjacking

Plan to fast-track velodrome works

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong Council is proposing to fast-track the controversial demolition of Maurice Kirby Velodrome in Noble Park as soon as March.

On 25 February, councillors will vote on the reallocation of $450,000 from the Open Space Reserve Fund to allow for works to start during "historically stable" weather conditions in March and April.

The stage 1 works would also include the demolition of the fire-damaged Scout Hall, minor drainage works and a new 2.5-metre wide shared path around Parkfield Reserve.

Mayor Roz Blades said the decision was prompted by council staff. It was "not a political one" or as a result of public agitation, she said.

"It's an operational issue. That's the total reason."

Cr Blades said residents had also expressed concerns that the cycling track was not safe.

"What I'm hearing from local residents is they would like it gone as soon as possible.

"They don't want their kids riding on it."

Cr Tim Dark said the reallocation was in keeping with the purposes of the Open Space Reserve Fund.

The funds - consisting of unbudgeted extra revenue - could be used to upgrade existing reserves as well as to acquire property for open space, he said.

The newly reformed Noble Park Dandenong Cycling Club, which opposed the velodrome's destruction, called it a "vindictive" move.

Demolition works hadn't been expected to proceed until after the council's 2019-'20 budget in July, member Kim Nguyen.

"Back in December, when the council approved the (Parkfield Reserve) masterplan,

they said the council has no budget to carry out any works.

"Now it seems to be happening in March."

The club's campaign to save the velodrome was now looking "very grim", Mr Nguyen said.

But for the fast-tracking, winter and spring rains would have delayed demolition works until - at the earliest - October or November, according to a council report.

"Wet conditions provide a much more difficult work environment when undertaking earthworks," it stated.

The project has been the subject of impassioned debate, with the reserve's tenant cricket, soccer and tennis clubs in support.

The plan includes an expanded cricket oval and new practice wickets, an extra soccer pitch, upgraded and relocated tennis courts and a new shared pavilion for the three tenant clubs.

Crowd comes out for first supper (room)

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Springvale Town Hall’s revitalised Supper Room was aptly re-opened with an enticing morning tea.

On 19 February, Greater Dandenong mayor Roz Blades cut the ribbon on the revamped home to hundreds of dances, forums and clubs over decades.

“When everyone wants to have a celebration in Springvale, they want to come to the Springvale Town Hall.”

The room’s familiar in its square shape, yet different - filled with natural light and modern technology as part of its $500,000-plus upgrade.

New heating and cooling systems, audiovisual and sound equipment, feature lighting and a moveable dividing wall were among the additions.

The room can cater for around 280 people.

Visitors looked out through its larger, grander windows onto what will be the rest of a $50 million community precinct.

Opening in 2020, it will include a library, exhibition space, cafe and landscaped recreation area.

“We’ve been waiting a long time for the Springvale precinct,” Cr Blades told the audience.

“It is really starting to take shape.”

Some of the city’s ‘living treasure’ residents Colin Robinson, Val Wilson, Mary Borg and Maria Erdeg were at the opening.

Ms Borg recalls the Town Hall had been popular in its hey-day, hosting senior dances

Sleeping occupants' home torched Residents have awoken to a deliberate fire started on their home's front porch in Keysborough on Sunday 17 February.

The occupants as well as their neighbours were awoken by the Henderson Road building's blaring smoke alarms about 1.30am.

They discovered a fire that had started to spread to the roofline at the front of their home.

Police say that an accelerant had been poured on the porch and a box with a large number of shoes prior to the fire.

Springvale CFA fire-fighters contained the blaze to the front of the home.

Any information, including CCTV footage, to Greater Dandenong CIU on 9767 7487 and Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Armed intruder kicks in front door

Mayor Roz Blades, right, cuts the opening ribbon, with the help of councillors Angela Long and Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Youhorn Chea. 190262 as well as discos for the young.

“The improvements were desperately needed,” she said - noting the new nearby car

park and the large modern kitchen.

"It's much more light, and the room looks a lot bigger."

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A man wielding a kitchen knife has kicked in a front door and startled two occupants in a Keysborough home in the early hours of Tuesday 12 February.

Police believe the aggravated burglary is linked to an attempted break-in in Springvale just eight minutes earlier.

The two addresses were just 2.5 kilometres away - approximately a five minute drive.

At 4.17am, a 38-year-old woman heard loud banging at her front door in Hooker Avenue, Springvale and then a vehicle drive off, police say.

She discovered “significant damage” to the door - which appeared to have been kicked with force. No entry had been gained, however.

At 4.25am, a male intruder wearing a red beanie kicked his way through the front door of a home in Golden Grove, Keysborough.

He wordlessly pointed his knife at a 22-yearold male occupant sitting at a computer in the front room at the time.

Hearing the victim yell, his 18-year-old brother ran down the stairs.

The intruder then fled from the house, without stealing any items.

He was described as aged in his early twenties, about 175 centimetres, tan skinned and wearing a red beanie.

Any information such as CCTV footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 and crimestoppersvic.com.au, or Greater Dandenong CIU on 9767 7487.

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A man has been car-jacked soon after parking in Knox Street, Noble Park.

The 23-year-old Noble Park man was approached by a station wagon of five males soon after he got out of his red 2001 Nissan Pulsar about 1.40am on Tuesday 19 February.

Four of the males went to the victim, while the remaining male went to the Pulsar.

Two of them wielded wooden bats. A male grabbed the victim by his shirt collar and demanded his wallet and phone.

When the victim emptied his pockets, his phone, wallet and car keys were stolen.

A male has driven off in the Pulsar, followed by the four co-offenders in the dark-coloured station wagon.

The carjackers were described as Caucasian.

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

Monday, 25 February, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 3

NEWS

$30,000 for lost thumb

It’s all to do with the price of fish

By Brendan Rees Kenneth Chi is feeling the pinch when it comes to selling flathead fillets at $49.99 per kilo.

Mr Chi, who is the manager of Fish Pier at Casey Central Shopping Centre in Narre Warren South says the price of locally caught fish has gone up since the State Government began phasing out commercial net fishing in Port Phillip Bay. He says the price of flathead fillets has gone up nearly $10 per kilo in the past fortnight.

"We're selling less for that price. If they (fishermen) catch less the price goes up," he said.

"If you're talking about other fish shops that use the frozen stuff and then you compare to the shop with fresh cut in the morning of course you can't compare," he said. "What you pay is what you get."

In a statement, the State Government says removing nets from the Gippsland Lakes will mean more fish for recreational anglers and more fishing tourists for the local economy, with all commercial licences to be removed by 2022.

This will aim to boost local tourism and create jobs, and grow fishing participation to one million anglers by 2020, the statement said.

However, Seafood Industry Victoria spokesman Jonathan Davies believes ban was "never necessary" which has seen a reduction of about 550 tonnes of seafood for consumers.

He said King George whiting prices have gone from $30kg to $90kg since the Port Phillip Bay buyback. "It's to the point where most Victorian can't eat it anymore."

"We've seen over the last couple of months

Kenneth Chi, manager at Fish Pier at Casey Central Shopping Centre has seen the price of flathead fillet fish rise. 190457_02 some extremely large busts of illegal and black market fishing operations," he said.

"There is still a strong demand for Victorian seafood. We would be calling on anyone who has a complaint or an issue with availability in access to Victorian seafood to starting writing to their local member.

"Let's show people that we actually care and deserve and want our own local product," Mr Davies said.

Owner and fishmonger of Schwarze Seafoods in Dandenong Dennis Schwarze said the commercial net fishing ban was hurting his business.

"There are a number species that we hardly ever see any more now," he says.

"We will be relying on interstate and over-

seas fish, and those prices will be phenomenal."

He is a fourth generation of his family to run the business since his great aunt started Schwarze Seafoods in 1930.

"My customers come here because they can get good quality fresh Australia seafood, and they've been held to ransom by the current State Government," he said.

Mr Schwarze said he used to pay $15kg for calamari at the market. "I'm paying in between $25 and $30 a kilo for calamari."

"If you were new in this business you would be lost in this market.

"I'm coming to the end now of my career.

The industry down the track is not looking real good."

A Noble Park steel fabrication company has been fined $30,000 after a 28-year-old worker lost his thumb in a workplace accident.

The 28-year-old's left thumb had got stuck in a metal bar bending machine at OneSteel Reinforcing Pty Ltd on 16 July 2017.

His thumb was later amputated in hospital.

The company appeared at Dandenong Magistrates' Court on 7 February, pleading guilty to failing to provide and maintain a safe workplace.

It was fined without conviction, due to making an early guilty plea and having no prior convictions.

The worker's thumb was caught between a fixed guard and a conveyor while trying to remove a steel bar from machinery.

WorkSafe found that the 10-millimetre gap posed a risk of entanglement or a crush injury.

OneSteel had failed to identify the risk during its safety audit on the machine prior to the incident, the court was told.

The company complied with three improvement notices, fixing a yellow metal plate and two guards at the end of the conveyor and moving an emergency stop button to make it accessible to workers.

The company was also ordered to pay WorkSafe $5,000 in legal costs.

WorkSafe health and safety executive director Julie Nielsen said missing or inadequate guarding could cause severe injuries or even death.

"This horrific and debilitating kind of injury should not be occurring in the 21st century, yet machine guarding remains one of the state's biggest workplace safety issues," Ms Nielsen said.

In 2018, WorkSafe launched 33 investigations into machine entrapment cases where guarding was absent or inadequate.

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Monday, 25 February, 2019

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Hall shutdown is averted

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A safety issue at John Pandazopoulos Hall has been swiftly fixed by Casey Council, averting a threatened shutdown of the hall.

After a month of talks with the council, the hall's president Brian Oates told Star News on 21 February that he'd close the hall due to recently-installed acoustic panels dropping from the ceiling late last year.

The 3-x-1-metre panels were affixed with glue, which had evidently become unstuck in warmer weather, Mr Oates said.

Hours before the 9am scheduled shutdown the following day, council officers and builders attended the hall to reinforce all the panels with large screws.

Mr Oates said the council had been slow to act since being informed of the danger four weeks ago - despite being liable for any injury to a variety of users of the hall.

"It's been going on for a month and they told me the builders still were going to look at it.

"And now within 24 hours we're very pleased we don't have to shut the place today."

Last April, the hall had re-opened after a $1.2 million revamp, including the new ceiling panels.

The 58-year-old hall is home to nine community groups, and named after the former Berwick Shire mayor and Dandenong MP John Pandazopoulos.

Casey Council was contacted for comment.

Brian Oates, second front left, with members of the South East Chinese club after the hall was Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS cleared for opening on 22 February. 190697

Stand-off on park’s future - on Facebook

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Greater Dandenong city planning director Jody Bosman told a council meeting on 29 January that the council had been offered the land for a "substantial" price - more than $2 million.

The council considered the land for overflow car parking in July 2014, but later reassessed that a car park was no longer required, he said.

"No new circumstances have emerged which makes the purchase of the 3,031 square metres for car parking any more compelling than it was in 2015," Mr Bosman said.

"As to its retention for open space, there are other areas of the municipality which have a proven shortage of open space which would be hard to prove in this specific area."

He said if Melbourne Water wanted to sell off the land for private sale, it would need to rezone the land from a public park and recreation zone to General Residential Zone 1.

The future of parkland at Dandenong Creek is under discussion. 190688 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

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Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams and Greater Dandenong councillor Matthew Kirwan have clashed over the future of 'surplus' Melbourne Water land in Dandenong.

Since 2014, the council has resisted an offer to purchase the public-owned land at 38-48 Dalgety Street from Melbourne Water for more than $2 million.

Talks were ongoing, as recently as 21 Feburary.

The stand-off recently spilled over in an exchange between Ms Williams and Cr Kirwan on Facebook.

Cr Kirwan was opposed to ratepayers essentially having to buy back public land as "vital" open space. ""The passionate reaction from residents to me via Facebook, phone calls and emails has indicated that this park, by the banks of

the Dandenong Creek, is highly valued by residents and will be increasingly needed in an area of increasing population due to increasing numbers of townhouses.

"With increasing population we need more parks not less."

He said a compromise was for the Council to be granted a peppercorn lease in return for funding the maintenance of the land. A similar arrangement was in place for Chandler Reserve in Keysborough, he said.

Ms Williams told Star News that after "multiple opportunities" that the council had "rejected outright purchasing the land".

"Rather than politicking Cr Kirwan needs to actually work with his fellow City of Greater Dandenong councillors to establish a formal position on the transfer of this land.

"The community expects council to work productively with Melbourne Water to get the best outcome for those who use this open space."

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Monday, 25 February, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 5

LOOKING BACK 100 years ago 27 February 1919 The Public Hospital Question At a meeting of the Dandenong hospital committee on Monday evening last Dr Langley emphasised the need of a public hospital being established in Dandenong.

He thought that if the people were prepared to go into the matter, the government would help them. To give the movement a start he would be prepared to give #50 towards it. The doctor remarked that the money that the council paid to the Infections Diseases' hospital annually would also be the means of assisting. Cr Abbott thought now was the opportune time to consider the question which was an important one. It was decided that the proposal should be discussed at the next meeting of the committee and Dr Langley was asked to obtain

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

all particulars so they might be placed before the meeting for consideration.

50 years ago 27 February 1969 Topping claim at Market A report of "topping" among fruit and vegetable stallholders at Dandenong Market were made to Dandenong Council on Monday. Cr W Titcher passed on the complaint of a housewife that a "swiftie" had been put over her at one of the stalls. She had bought goods on the strength of front row displays.

On examining them later she found a big proportion were not front row quality. Cr Titcher said he understood that if such a practise were detected at the Victoria Market the stallholder could be prosecuted.

The Town Clerk Mr C A Elliott, said buyers at Dandenong Market were protected in

the same way as at Victoria Market. Regular visits were made to produce markets

by Government Officials who personally checked stalls. "Anyone who has a complaint should contact the municipal office and it would be promptly investigated" Mr Elliott said.

20 years ago 22 February 1999 College to admit girls Next year Hailbury College will make history in time for the new millennium. The school will smash its previous 'all boy' barrier to admit girls to year 3 for the first time in what will then be 109 years of tradition.

Already enrolments are being taken to admit girls to the early learning centres at the Keysborough, Berwick and Brighton campuses. The reminder of the college, years 4 to 8 will retain the 'all boys' status. New

Principle Dr Robert Pargetter said "Society changes and so must great schools."

5 years ago 24 February 2014 Cooling off a community Greater Dandenong's public 'cool rooms' could automatically open at a trigger temperature in the future. A heatwave in January prompted City of Greater Dandenong to activate its heatwave plan and open designated air-conditioned spaces to the public for the first time.

Springers Leisure Centre in Keysborough, Dandenong Oasis, Jan Wilson community centre in Noble Park North and Paddy O'Donoghue Centre in Noble Park all welcomed hot and bothered residents and served up cold water as the temperature roared above 40 degrees on consecutive days.

Climate change hits home COMMUNITY

VOICE MATTHEW KIRWAN GREATER DANDENONG COUNCILLOR

One Dandenong resident, who suffers from a heat-affected condition that causes her heart-rate to soar when she moves, has told me that she is effectively wheelchair-bound for most of summer.

And if we don't take urgent action to tackle climate change, it's only going to get worse for the disadvantaged people living in our city.

Because let's be honest here - this is an is-

sue that hits our poorest residents the hardest.

For those who can afford to do so, it's easy enough to ride out a heat wave in air conditioned comfort.

Tree cover, open space and building types make a huge difference to heat levels.

As we face the prospect of a future of hotter summer temperatures fuelled by climate change, local governments - particularly in disadvantaged areas - need to step up to protect our most vulnerable.

There is plenty we can do.

In our fast-growing outer suburbs, urban trees, shade and greenery need to be planned into the fabric of our streets.

A well-placed tree can save a resident up to 58 per cent on air-conditioning costs.

We also need to accelerate the switch to re-

newable energy, to slam the brakes on climate change.

Switching to solar power doesn't just help our climate - it's a way for residents to beat escalating power bills and effectively cool their homes during extreme heat conditions - and local governments can help them to do it.

A popular Melbourne program, Solar Savers, helps pensioners install solar systems in their homes with no upfront costs.

It's simple, practical actions like this from local government leaders that could potentially save lives in extreme weather conditions.

We're living on the climate change frontline in the outer suburbs - it's time for local governments to step up to fight the battle for our future.

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The recent scorching heat in Melbourne has made life difficult for everyone - but for vulnerable residents in some of the outer suburbs, extreme heat can have potentially deadly consequences.

As a councillor for Greater Dandenong, one of Victoria's poorest and most ethnically diverse local government areas, I see first-hand how extreme heat affects local residents.

Many people have told me that they're afraid to turn on the air-conditioner at home, even on the hottest days, due to soaring power bills.

This can have huge impacts on their physical and mental health, with health services data showing a spike in hospital visits and ambulance calls in the area during heatwaves.

6 STAR JOURNAL

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Monday, 25 February, 2019

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … WEDDINGS

Keeping the costs down For some couples, the most expensive day of their life will be the one when they tie the knot, with around 35% of newlyweds blowing their wedding budget before they walk down the aisle. So if you're planning for this special day in your life, you'll need to work out how to finance it - without spending the rest of your married life paying for it.

Here are some tips to ease the pressure on the wedding budget .

1. Talk about money early with your partner and families (if they will be involved).

Decide what you will be able to pay for and if your family can help with any expenses. Set a budget and stick to it.

2. Be prepared.

Try to book your wedding venue, reception and honeymoon well in advance to avoid disappointment.

3. Start saving early.

See MoneySmart's wedding saving and budgeting to find out what costs you can expect to pay.

4. Grab a bargain.

Search eBay or Gumtree or hunt down endof- stock bargains, such as DIY wedding stationery.

5. Have an out-of- season wedding.

Be different! Have a July wedding to cut costs without sacrificing your precious memories.

Many venues and suppliers have lower-priced deals during winter - pick a venue with a romantic fireplace.

6. Be realistic with your guest list.

If you haven't kept in contact with friends in the last 12 months, why do it now? Lay down the law with family, so you don't end up with tables full of relatives you've never even met!

7. Explore your network.

Call on talented friends who can swap a service for a gift, such as a photographer, a hair stylist or make-up person. Maybe someone knows a band that can play at the reception?

But make sure you hear their repertoire of music choices first!

8. Cut the ties.

Times are changing and so are weddings.

It's ok to shed some traditions. Be practical about whether you need all the trimmings like a videographer, bonbonnieres, and gifts for parents or bridal party if you need to cut costs.

9. Be less formal and spend less.

For example you could swap a formal sit down dinner for a cocktail party and save on room hire and catering costs or, if the venue allows it, organise the drinks yourself.

Source - www.cmaadvice.com.au

Book your wedding venue early and think carefully about the guest list.

Putting plans into place Just engaged? Here are a few things to think about when planning for the wedding.

Set a timetable The minute you get engaged, everyone will be asking for your wedding date. But in reality, you won't be able to set an exact date until other major decisions like choosing (and booking) your venue are made. So first, focus on determining a range of dates that'll work for you. The average engagement lasts 15 months, but also think about what season you'd prefer, any major holidays or family events you'd like to avoid conflicting with, and how long you predict you'll need to plan.

Set your budget Sit down with your families and figure out how much everyone is contributing. This number will affect every decision and purchase you make, so be sure to work out your budget before you start planning. It can be an uncomfortable conversation to have, but it's better to get it out of the way now so you have a realistic picture about what you can spend.

Draft a guest list As you begin to build your guest list, you'll need to consider a number of factors. If you have a particular ceremony or reception site in mind, for instance, you're going to be limited by how many people it can accommodate (ie you can't squeeze 300 people into a lighthouse). Would you rather have quality one-onone time with each guest or throw a once-ina-lifetime party for all your friends and family?

If mum and dad won't budge about inviting throngs of friends and family, you'll have to hear them out - especially if they're footing a

Many couples start planning their wedding as soon as they announce their engagement. major part of the bill.

Choose your wedding party Now it's your turn to propose to your bridesmaids and groomsmen. Remember, the earlier you ask, the sooner you can enlist their help.

And keep in mind that your wedding party is agreeing to spend their money and donate their time–be considerate and kind by informing everyone about all your plans (including costs for attire, bachelor and bachelorette parties and more), showing them a good time and making sure they know how much you appreciate them.

Book a venue - and set your date Your reception venue will become the backdrop for virtually all your photos and can influence everything from heavy hitters like your budget and guest list to smaller details like your menu (if you choose a venue with inhouse catering). Ensure that you get the look, price and extras you want by scouring local listings, shopping around, scheduling visits and booking early.

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NEWS

Climbing out of hell

By Cam Lucadou-Wells When Janice Ablett reflects on her efforts on the Ice Meltdown Project, it boils down to 150 lives 'saved'.

She shuns 'harm minimalisation', doesn't receive a cent of government funding but she says her program gets results.

Ms Ablett is one of the guest speakers at a forum on the notoriously addictive and destructive drug 'ice' hosted by Neighbourhood Watch Greater Dandenong.

"I think the (ice problem) is getting worse.

It's not just ice now, it's all drugs," Ms Ablett says, citing the clients found with mixes of meth, heroin, GHB and ecstasy in their systems.

"You're getting a cocktail - you really don't know what you're buying and they don't care what they're selling."

Five years ago, she founded the project after a spate of ice-related deaths in her home district of Drouin and Warragul.

The drug doesn't just wreck the lives of users and their families. There's up to 30 impacted, including victims of theft and other crimes, Ms Ablett says.

The Ice Meltdown Project is a "non-judgemental" three-month program of "rehab in the home" that is founded on complete abstinence.

"The ones that stick with us get better. If you do everything with us, you'll be 100 per

Janice Ablett, who founded the Ice Meltdown Project, is guest-speaker at a Noble Park forum. cent better," Ms Ablett says.

The project charges $250 - much less than residential rehabs and significantly less than the cost of imprisonment.

It includes weekly gym, counselling therapy for users and their families as well as non-addictive medications administered by a qualified doctor in Bunyip, 'Dr John'.

The medication helps patients adjust to the crashes in dopamine, serotonin and noradrenaline, Ms Ablett said. They are withdrawn from the medication after about six months.

"It's not a benzo (diazepin) - we don't want to give them another addiction."

Therapy focuses on underlying issues like psychosis, anger, anxiety and confidence.

"A lot of our clients have traumas as children and teenagers that they've never been able to speak about due to embarrassment and rejection.

"This 'ice' takes the pain away."

There are weekly urine tests, a mental health care plan as well as an invitation to optional church services.

Before they sign on, the clients go through a two-week period without their phone or internet access. They are supervised 24/7 at home by a support person, usually from their family.

Ms Ablett is on call around the clock to support the families. She says 150 clients have been saved - re-integrated in their families, the community and employment.

"The first thing we do with our clients is get rid of their (drug-using) 'friends'.

"Their choice is to start a new life without drugs. And they love themselves for it."

Meanwhile, the Ice Meltdown Project holds barbecues and fundraisers to keep itself afloat.

The forum asks for a gold-coin donation all proceeds to the project.

It is on Wednesday 20 March 7.30pm at Paddy O'Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park.

WIN TICKETS TO STRINGS The Best of Damien Leith with String Quartet at The Drum Theatre, Friday 26 April at 7:30pm.

It’s been 12 years since Damien Leith won over Australia’s heart, taking out the 2006 series of Australian Idol.

Since then Damien has released nine sensational albums and has toured extensively.

His new tour, ‘The Best of Damien Leith with String Quartet’ celebrates the best of those nine albums alongside the lush sound of strings.

The Dandenong Star Journal has a double pass for the show for one lucky reader. Enter at: starcommunity. com.au/competitions/

WHAT’S ON Dinner with a VIEW Dandenong Evening VIEW Club is celebrating its 33rd birthday. Guest speaker is Sally Beard from Backpacks for Kids. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education for Women. It supports the SMITH Family's Learning for Life Program.

New members and guests are always welcome.

Tuesday 5 March, 7pm for dinner at the Dandenong RSL, 44-50 Clow Street. Bookings essential. Phone: 9795 1222.

Food bloggers wanted Have you got a favourite recipe you are famous for that you would like to share with the local community?

Armada Dandenong Plaza is asking all budding cooks and food bloggers in the local area to enter their recipe in its 'Food Blogging Competition'.

Three semi-finalists will be chosen to cook their favourite dish using ingredients bought with a $100 gift card from the centre's fresh food retailers. The winner receives a $500 gift voucher and recognition for their winning recipe.

To enter, submit blog-style photos of your cooked dish at www.armadadandenongplaza.com.au.

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Peace Run The Peace Torch of the Sri Chinmoy OnenessHome Peace Run is stopping in Dandenong during its inaugural tour around the globe. More than 2000 runners from 50 countries will carry the torch in relay across every country of the Southern Hemisphere.

Tuesday 26 February, 2.30pm at Harmony Square. Details: peacerun.org

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Red Cross Calling Hallam branch members of Red Cross will be collecting for Red Cross Calling during March.

Please look out for us and support our fundraising efforts. We also have raffles with fabulous prizes.

Friday 8 March, 10am-3pm at Spring Square, Hallam and Friday 22 March, 10am-3pm at Autumn Place shopping centre, Doveton. Details: Betty, 9774 0194.

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Music and dance for all ages Enjoy an evening of rock n roll, reggae, pop, jazz, Latin, waltzes and more at the Aussie Rhythm & Jazz Association.

The Autumn Music & Dance event features the Matrix dance band. Food is on sale. Dress code is smart casual.

Bring your own drinks and dancing shoes.

8pm-late on 9 March at Keysborough Seniors Club, 352 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough.

Members $15, non-members $20, children aged 6-12 $10. Tickets: Brian David 0421 983 862, Lew Geer 0437 950 550 or Frank Nicholls 9706 8212.

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'Textile' painting A Kantha Garden for Her is the latest exhibition at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre. The paintings are influenced by the Kantha textile tradition of India.

Until 2 March at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, cnr Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong

·

Guided Imagery Meditation Take an opportunity to relax and focus on your inner life and its sacred meaning. Enjoy this time just for you. A gold coin is welcome. For more details speak to Trish or Jo on 9791 8664 or theopendoor@ssjg.org.au Wednesdays 2.30 to 3pm (followed by a cup-

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10 STAR JOURNAL

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pa till 4pm) at The Open Door, 110 Ann Street, Dandenong.

Ice forum Q&A and information session featuring guest speaker Janice Ablett, project manager of Ice Meltdown. She will speak on lives affected by the drug ice and the lives saved by her project.

Police officers will share their observations. Organised by Neighbourhood Watch Greater Dandenong.

Wednesday 20 March 7.30pm at Paddy O'Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park. Gold coin donation

·

Kokedamas Learn the Japanese art of binding plants into mini hanging works of art. Kokedama have been created in Japan for centuries.

Tuesday 26 February 7pm-9pm at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McRae Street Dandenong.

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Macrame classes Learn the basics to this popular 70s craft which is making a huge comeback. In this class you will create your own macrame wall hanging.

Tuesday 5 March, 7pm-9pm at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McRae Street Dandenong.

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Creative Spirituality The Open Door offers a place to explore your creativity/inner life without fear or judgement.

The exploration is carried out in a variety of activities, such as meditations, centring prayer, art of soul, tai chi, book club, cooking workshops, sing-a-long and creative writing.

Workshops re-commence on Tuesday 29 January at The Open Door, 110 Ann Street Dan-

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Monday, 25 February, 2019

denong. Details: Trish or Jo on 9791 8664.

Learn new skills Join a course at Hallam Community Learning Centre. Includes English conversation practice with your children and a fully-qualified English teacher. There's also an eight-week beginners course in computers.

Hallam Community Learning Centre, 56 Kays Avenue. Bookings: 9703 1688.

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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).

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.

·

Al-Anon Family Groups.

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

Free community lunch 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

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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

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Computers for beginners Basic computer classes for beginners are starting in October. Course runs every Tuesday for eight weeks. Small classes for personal attention with our friendly and patient tutor.

Cost $135, concession $115. Bookings essential.

Details: Hallam Community Learning Centre, 9703 1688.

Check out chess The Dandenong Chess club welcomes players of all ages, from novices to grand masters.

16 Balmoral Avenue, Dandenong. Wednesdays, 7pm. Call Paul on 0406 786 242 for more information.

·

Learn to sew Men and women can learn to use a sewing machine to insert zips, cut patterns and how to hem.

Free childcare is available for parents who attend the class.

Springvale Neighbourhood House, 46-50 Queens Avenue, Springvale. Tuesdays during school terms, 12.30pm to 2.30pm. $3 per class. No bookings required. Call 9548 3972 for more information.

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Help is at hand Free meals, showers and laundry services are available.

Doveton Neighbourhood Learning Centre, 34 Oak Avenue, Doveton. Tuesdays, 6pm to 8pm.

Call 9791 1449 for more information.

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Fun for retirees The Waverley Gardens Combined Probus Club is seeking new members from the Dandenong North, Noble Park and Springvale North areas.

Members meet for coffee and a guest speaker from 9.45am to noon on the last Tuesday of the month, and for other activities.

Vegas Club, Waverley Gardens Shopping Centre, corner Jacksons and Police roads, Mulgrave. Call 9560 6046 or 9801 4049 for more information.

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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

property

FINANCIAL FREEDOM BECKONS PAGE 12

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DOWNSIZE FOR FINANCIAL FREEDOM ALL the doom and gloom in the news about the current state of the housing market might make you feel a little unsure about buying or selling a property right now. But if you’re over 50 and looking to downsize your home so you can enjoy greater financial freedom, there’s never been a better time to get off the rollercoaster and live the life you’ve been dreaming about.

You could join other like-minded over 50s who have already made the smart move to a stunning Lifestyle Community – where you’ll find brand new, modern homes priced at roughly 75-80% of the local median house price. With no stamp duty, no council rates, no body corporate, that’s quite a smart financial move.

It’s not just a smart financial decision, it’s a great lifestyle move too, especially for those wanting to downsize their home, but not their life. Each high-quality home is designed to be low-maintenance and is surrounded by luxury resort-style facilities such as an indoor heated swimming pool, fully equipped fitness centre, billiards room, croquet court, bowling green and more – yours to use whenever you feel like it!

If this sounds like the lifestyle and financial freedom you’ve been waiting for, then the news gets even better. Lifestyle Kaduna Park is now selling, with new homes ready in early 2020.

So drop into the sales suite at Lifestyle Berwick Waters, 10 Skylark Boulevard, Clyde North and find out more about your new 5-star lifestyle. Or you can call us on 1300 50 55 60 or visit www.lifestylekadunapark. com.au ●

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Real Estate

“BrookBank” on The Shady Creek

Dandenong 1 Sunnyside Avenue

310 Sheffield road neerim SouTh A scenic gently sloping 5.6 acres of improved pasture, with all new fencing & the permanent Shady Creek flowing through. Superb improvements feature a well built & nicely presented 4 br bv home with 9ft ceilings, 2 showers & 2 toilets.

Also a verandah on 3 sides plus a double garage.

Shedding is excellent with a quality ‘Barn Style’ 3 roller door 11x7m colourbond shed with concrete & power. Also a huge 3 bay 20x10x4m high shed.

A property having privacy and scenic outlook. Well located being 5km from Neerim South Village. $795,000 internet id: 20439887 View property and more details at www.sej.com.au

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul

www.sej.com.au

9701 8611

Saturday 9th March at 12:00pm

Rarely do you find the opportunity to purchase a dream family home designed, built & inhabited by the builder themselves. 4 well-appointed bedrooms feature alongside 2 fully-tiled bathrooms.

a4 b2 c2 12

STAR REAL ESTATE

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Shop 6 Parkmore S.C, Cheltenham Road, Keysborough obrienrealestate.com.au Louie Stevanovic 0411 963 960 Peter Konidaris 0421 274 996

Shop 2, 48 Temple Street, Heyfield - $275,000 + SAV Leasehold for Sale - Moroney’s Alpine Meats Located at the gateway of the Victorian High Country. Growing population of 2200+. Heyfield is fast becoming one of Gippsland’s best located towns.

Tourism during spring - autumn months, plus the 4 caravan parks near Lake Glenmaggie. Supply to over 35 Commercial & Gov’t venues throughout Gippsland.

Over the counter trade & an excellent Wholesale base. Modern & Clean Business.

Hilux vehicle, offered for sale with the business. A long lease, with 6 further terms.

Inspect By Appointment All Enquiries: David Wadey 0429 483007 Email: david@greheyfield.com.au

4 Temple Street, Heyfield, 3858 www.gippslandrealestate.com Monday, 25 February, 2019

com.au

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For auction.

5148 3007 realestate.starcommunity.com.au

HOME FOCUS

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! LOCATED in a prime location just 450m from Parkmore and opposite the local bowls club, this property is the ideal buy for homebased business, investors or first home buyers.

Cheerful pastel walls are paired with lovely timber floorboards and durable slate flooring to create inviting interiors throughout the home.

A light filled living room with air conditioner and wall heater leads through to the open plan kitchen and meals area with casual breakfast bar. Three bedrooms, two with built-in robes, share a central family bathroom and separate WC, while ducted heating completes the family comfort essentials.

Set on a block of approximately 530m2 (potentially subdivision - STCA), the north facing backyard flourishes with established planting. A single garage and extensive driveway are combined with a timber picket fence and entry gate to offer secure parking for up to 9 cars; ideal for those with additional cars, work vehicles, caravans, boats, trailers or simply lots of visitors!

This property is just 450m to the Parkmore Shopping Centre, across the road from the sporting amenities of Rowley Allan Reserve, within walking distance to Keysborough Learning Centre, Resurrection Primary School, Keysborough Community Park, Frederick Wachter Reserve, as well as just minutes to Tatterson Park, Springers Leisure Centre, the prestigious Haileybury College, Eastlink and the Dandenong Bypass. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 353 Cheltenham Road, KEYSBOROUGH, VIC 3173 Description: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: $645,000 - $699,000 Inspect: As per advertised, or by appointment Auction: Private sale Contact: Art Sudharm, OBRIEN REAL ESTATE

SALES & RENTALS

First loor, 126 Walker street, dandenong P: 9791 5922 F: 9792 2536 N IORDAY T C TU ATUHIS SA

Dandenong

Dandenong Central

24 ann street

CENTRAL CORNER POTENTIAL!

B2 Besley street

CONTEMPORARY MASTERPIECE!

This solid 1960’s style home has a comforting homely feel with its high ceilings, ornate plasterwork and rich timbers. It comprises three large bedrooms, formal lounge and dining areas and a fabulous kitchen adjoining meals area. Features gas appliances, central air conditioning, aluminium security shutters and extra large garage/workshop. Set on a corner site of approximately 693m2 ideal for redevelopment or dual occupancy – two lot subdivision (STCA). Walk to schools, transport and city centre in minutes! Attention builders/developers/investors! LOCATION IS THE KEY!

This architect designed modern industrial style home will take your breath away! The seclusion and security of the property takes you to another world yet only a short distance to the city centre. There are three or four bedrooms, enormous walk in robe to master, three bathrooms, powder room, fabulous kitchen with marble bench tops and quality appliances, oversized butlers pantry or second kitchen, two large living areas and formal dining room. An individual home with high ceilings, expansive tiling, air conditioning, ducted heating and alarm system. The spectacular balcony reaches a landing that boasts North-Easterly views to the Dandenong Ranges.

Doveton

Cranbourne East

Dandenong North

COMFY HOME ON A BUDGET!

OWN STREET FRONTAGE!

auction: saturday, 2nd March, 2019 @ 11:00am (if not sold prior) oPen: Wed 5:00pm to 5:20pm & sat 10:30am to 11:00am

134 doveton avenue

2 neBula lane

BRICK HOUSE ON LARGE BLOCK

Unbelievable pricing for a brick home nestled on a 761m2 (approx) block of land, which is located in an exclusive and quiet part of Doveton yet within commutable proximity to shopping, schools, transport and Freeway access. Bus stop and parkland just a few doors away. The home offers three bedrooms, full family bathroom, large formal lounge, meals area off kitchen, separate laundry and separate toilet. Other features include gas cooking, heating and hot water service, air conditioning, undercover entertainment area, garden shed, double carport and a large backyard. Worth consideration for a unit development (STCA). BEST TIME TO BUY SMART!

For sale: $470,000 to $515,000 oPen: Wed 5:40pm to 6:00pm & sat 2:40pm to 3:00pm

Daryl Rayner Director 0411 537 820

realestate.starcommunity.com.au

For sale: $900,000 to $960,000 oPen: strictly by appointment only

Tony Rachele Director

3/1535 HeatHerton road

Modern three bedroom home with walk in robe and full ensuite to master, kitchen with breakfast bar and dishwasher, large living and dining, courtyard and single garage. Features ducted heating, air conditioning and so much more! Inspect today!

For sale: $420,000 to $450,000 oPen: thurs 5:40-6:00pm & sat 3:40-4:00pm

Mick Whelan Sales Manager 0416 003 505

John Ratnam Sales Consultant 0414 556 517

com.au

Two bedroom unit with spacious loungeroom, separate kitchen/meals area with gas cooking and space for a meals table. Includes gas ducted heating and evaporative air conditioning. It has its own drive with off street carpark.

For sale: $300,000 to $330,000 oPen: Wed 4:30-4:50pm & sat 12:20-12:40pm

9791 5922

mclennanrealestate.com.au

Monday, 25 February, 2019

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STAR REAL ESTATE

13

SPORT

A memorable night indeed

By Nick Creely This was no ordinary piece of silverware for all involved at St Brigid’s/St Louis.

They’ve defied, stunned and brushed aside all those in their wake, no matter the opposition, in what had been a truly remarkable Twenty20 campaign for a club that is in the second tier of the Dandenong District Cricket Association.

It’s now likely to be arguably the proudest moment in club history.

The men from the Cave ended their Dandenong District Twenty20 season with a stunning premiership, defeating yet another giant of the association on Wednesday night at Shepley Oval, Berwick - a side led by Matt Chasemore that has been one of the most consistent forces in Twenty20 cricket in the state, let alone the country.

“It was a great campaign for the Twenty20 side - it was a great win, we beat all the big boys,” said proud club president Noel Fitzgibbon.

“I’m very proud of the boys, they’ve done a sensational job, beating the big boys of the DDCA, to Springvale South, to Buckley (Ridges), and then Berwick, the state champions.”

The club’s remarkable run towards the Twenty20 premiership started back on 24 October, ironically against Berwick, where they were absolutely thumped after a Nathan Pilon century, before bouncing back a few weeks later against Cranbourne. The third round saw them slump to a 1-2 record after a shock loss to Doveton, but evened the ledger with a comfortable victory over Springvale a week later.

They then managed to scrape their way through to the quarter-finals with a strong win at home against Narre Warren. And that’s where things took a stunning turn.

Severe underdogs, the men from the Cave met the powerhouse Springvale South away from home, but superbly defended 147 against a star-studded Bloods, setting up a crunch semi final against Buckley Ridges at Park Oval.

The Bucks sent the ball whizzing the boundary to set the visitors a steep 195, but Vaib Deshpande had other ideas, blasting 104 as his side got home in the dying moments.

It all came down to Wednesday’s grand final against the Bears - the third Turf 1 powerhouse in a row - at the home of the Dandenong Cricket Club.

On a batting track that has seen plenty of runs this season, Chasemore’s side wasted little time and chose to bat, racking up 7/159 off their overs, with Matthew Hayes doing well with 2/33. But it was the great Nathan Pilon that once again shone, blasting 59 to cap off an extraordinary season with the white ball.

As they have for the entirety of the tournament, they had their backs against the wall in the chase, with Deshpande and Jarrod Munday falling in the opening overs to leave them 2/8, with class acts Blade Baxter (2/27) and Brendan Rose (2/25) using all of their brilliance to immediately swing the game in the Bears’ favour.

Mark Jamieson (32) and Liam Harris (19) fought hard to try and tick the scoreboard, but the Bears’ experience and class with the white ball saw them slump to 4/65 and in danger of the game slipping away.Enter Matthew Hayes, who played his best knock of the season ... ..and at just the right time.

Hayes took the bowling on to great success, sending nine fours and a six to the boundary on his way to 65 - his highest score of the season - drawing the underdogs close.

Skipper Jeremy Heys (20 not out) took it upon himself to be the finisher, slamming a six over the ropes in the final over of the match, and suddenly, the Saints were no longer the underdogs, they were the champions of the Twenty20 caper of the DDCA. Fitzgibbon said the no one at his club will forget the moment the winning runs were scored - for a club that doesn’t demand the same attention as some of the powerhouses, these moments are made to savour.

“It was one of the biggest wins the club’s ever had - the boys all play for each other, we’re a tight knit group, and they all played their part,” Fitzgibbon said.

“We believed in ourselves, and our ability there’s been a few boys at the club that have been around for a long time, and they’ve been 18 STAR JOURNAL

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Vaib Deshpande sends one down for the Saints on Wednesday night. 190565

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Got him - the ball crashes into the stumps of Berwick skipper Matt Chasemore. very good cricketers.

“We had a squad of about 15 that all contributed and played their part, and we just didn’t fear anyone. We believed we could do it.

“It’d be one of the better wins for this club - we were formed in 1954, we’ve won Turf 1 premierships, in the FDCA, BTCA, and for us to win this one, it’ll certainly be treasured.”

Fitzgibbon said that the camaraderie and leadership in the side is second to none, and praised the players, who excelled under skipper Jeremy Heys this tournament.

“Jeremy’s been a leader for a number of years, he’s our spiritual leader,” he said.

Monday, 25 February, 2019

“But they all play their part - there’s also a number of leaders, not just Jeremy. Pat Jamieson, Mark Jamieson, the boys that have been there for a long time, they just know what to do.

“They’re all leaders themselves in their own right.”

ST BRIGID/ST LOUIS TWENTY20 CHAMPIONS (T20 stats) Vaib Deshpane - 251 runs at 41.8, 4 wickets at 39.5, economy of 7.1 Mark Jamieson - 119 runs at 19.8 Jarrod Munday - 79 runs at 26.3, 1 catch, 3 stumpings Liam Harris - 128 runs at 42.7, 4 wickets at

23, economy of 7.1 Matthew Hayes - 110 runs at 55, 2 wickets at 37.5, economy of 9.4 Clinton Gottinger - 90 runs at 18 Jeremy Heys (capt) - 83 runs at 20.8 Alamdar Raza - 36 runs at 12, 4 wickets at 30, economy of 7.1 Patrick Jamieson - 39 runs at 19.5, 8 wickets at 13.8, economy of 8.8 Ryan Malcolm - 9 runs, 8 wickets at 18.1, economy of 6.6 Kane Hutchinson - 5 wickets at 26.8, economy of 8.9 dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

The final four is locked in

By Nick Creely

Berwick’s Matt Robertson can hardly believe it after snaring a brilliant catch to remove Leigh Booth. 190592 carving the ball to all parts on his way to his third century of the season.

With just 10 overs left in the game, the Maroons appeared to be in the box seat at 4/295, requiring a further 77 runs for victory at a tick under eight an over. But spinner Jarryd Straker - as he has all season - delivered at an oppor-

tune time, snaring 5/73 to see the home side bowled out for a brave 344 in the 79th over.

Meanwhile, down at Ben Kavanagh Reserve, Mordialloc’s finals hopes came to an end at the hands of Buckley Ridges. The Bloodhounds appeared to be cruising in their chase of 273, with Brendan Morris (59) and Ian Daniel (81)

Another day, another Brett Forsyth ton

By Nick Creely Dandenong is yet to have a Ryder Medal draped around the neck of one of its players.

While there have been some serious cricketers grace the field this Victorian Premier Cricket season, champion Panther Brett Forsyth could well be the favourite to take out this year’s award, such has been the dominance of the class opener with a stunning thirst for runs.

It would be a historic occasion for the club.

Forsyth’s 168 on Saturday, which is now his highest score during his glittering career at Shepley and second century in a row, was a case of a player that simply knows how to build an innings from nothing, accelerate at the right moment, and rein in his aggression when the moment demanded it.

It was batting for the purists, and even more of an indication that he has what it takes if the Victorian selectors decide to have a look.

Facing a big ask heading into day two, the

Brett Forsyth crunched yet another century on Picture: ROB CAREW Saturday. 187072 Panthers got off to the best start possible in their chase of 351 against Footscray, with Forsyth and skipper Tom Donnell (35) notching up 69 for the first wicket, in yet another strong stand by the champion openers.

Donnell’s departure didn’t halt the home

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

compiling a brilliant 141-run opening stand, with Daniel’s strokeplay in particular an absolute delight. But the Bucks rattled through the middle order superbly, with Greg Todd (3/39) in fine touch yet again, and the home side fell short, bowled out for 231, Heinz Southern Districts (134 and 1/34) defeated St Mary’s (84).

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side’s momentum, with Cam Forsyth (31) also batting well to spend some quality time at the crease with his brother, and the pair swiftly added a further 56 runs to the score, with the Dogs struggling to find the right lines on a golden batting track. But after crossing yet another half-century, Forsyth seemed primed to build on that, crunching several to the boundary in ominous fashion in what appeared to be a switching of gears. Joining the star at 3/195, the returning James Pattinson (68 off 67) showed his many tricks with the bat, rattling off boundaries to all corners of Shepley in what proved to be the match-winning stand.

While Pattinson carved them, Forsyth continued to churn his runs, knowing all too well his presence at the end of the day would seal the points for his side.

Despite Pattinson falling only 30 runs short of victory, a late cameo by James Nanopoulos (21 off 13) helped get the job done, with Forsyth deservingly striking the winning runs with five wickets and just 11 balls to spare.

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It took until the second last round of the homeand-away season, but the finalists to fight for the DDCA Turf 1 premiership are finally locked in.

Springvale South, Buckley Ridges, Berwick and Hallam Kalora Park will all see finals action this season, however the final makeup of the top four is yet to be determined.

Most of the attention of the round was down at Frawley Road, where Hallam set about the task of chasing the 200 set by Berwick on day one. Despite steady openers Ben Hillard (11) and Leigh Booth (25) working hard to see off the new ball, a stunning over from spearhead Brendan Rose (2/15) got the visitors up and about.

Snaring the edge of Hillard at the start of the over, Rose removed Jagveer Hayer four balls later without scoring, immediately placing the home side under pressure on 2/20.

It took another stunning purple patch, this time from Jack Phillips (3/20), to truly take the game away, snaring gun batsmen Jaime Brohier and Jordan Hammond within three balls of each other.

Booth fought hard to stay at the crease, but his undoing, brought about by a sublime catch

by Matt Robertson off Jarrod Goodes (1/5), meant it was only a matter of time before the Bears could rattle through the tail.

Surviving just the 54 overs, the Hawks rolled over for a mere 84, with Cory Bevan (3/18) continuing his fine season.

North Dandenong, meanwhile, put in a mighty effort but fell short of hauling in a monster chase against Springvale South.

Chasing 372 for victory, the Maroons were rocked by two early wickets. But it was a stunning partnership between Akshay Ballal (112) and Shehan Fernando (74) that brought the game back to life, with Ballal in particular

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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Monday, 25 February, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 19