Dandenong Star Journal - 11th March 2019

DANDENONG

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Monday, 11 March, 2019

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Stolen car blaze threat to retirees

School crush danger warning

Velodrome protest goes to Parliament

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Property Lift out

Legal service is shut down

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

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After 42 years of free legal advice and advocacy, Casey-Cardinia Community Legal Service (CCCLS) has received its final sentence.

The office in Claredale Street, Dandenong reluctantly closes its doors on Friday 29 March after Victoria Legal Aid discontinued the service's $800,000 annual funding.

The funds will be reallocated to SpringvaleMonash Legal Service and Peninsula Community Legal Centre, which has a branch in Cranbourne.

Over the past 12 months, the service went through a course of renewal as the VLA ordered an independent review into the service.

The CCCLS's long-serving coordinator Vera Hardiman departed and board members with more diverse skills were appointed. It was set to move into larger premises in Hallam.

Acting coordinator Carolyn Tadross believed the service had sufficiently rebutted the VLA's "governance" concerns.

"The (independent) reviews were not so damning that it would justify stopping our funding."

The CCCLS tended to be less "political" and "vocal" than other services that were part of the Federation of Community Legal Centres (Victoria), Ms Tadross said. It was more of a "hands-on" service.

"I think (the decision) was based on politics. It was not an issue of mismanagement of money," she said.

"It was a case of not keeping up with the Joneses."

Jan Little, a volunteer board member for much of the service's 42 years, says she feels "traumatised".

News at your fingertips Casey-Cardinia Community Legal Service staff Kaylene Dunkley, Lynne Thomas and Maree Stoffels Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS start clearing the office. 190949 "It's the people that have made it special.

"It's one of those places where the staff felt like family to each other."

It started as Doveton Legal Service - a free legal advice service from Monash University law students on Thursday nights.

It expanded to the community health service offices in Power Road Doveton, then to a nearby former dentist surgery and finally the current offices.

After the law students stopped coming, local lawyers volunteered to continue the Thursday night advice sessions.

It has also long provided free casework for eligible clients in the suburb of Dandenong, City of Casey and Cardinia Shire.

More than 9000 cases of community legal advice were provided last year.

"It's difficult to believe there's not going to be that same legal representation for CaseyCardinia," Ms Little said.

"Hopefully we've left a good footprint, and people won't forget it in a hurry."

Victoria Legal Aid administers funding for most of the state's community legal centres, as well as monitoring the centre's service targets.

"The decision to reallocate the funding is about improving access to legal services in the region and ensuring the best services are available to the community," VLA chief executive Louise Glanville said.

"There will be no loss of funding to the region.

"Both centres (Springvale-Monash and Peninsula legal centres) have a long history of providing services to the local area."

CCCLS's clients are being connected to other legal support and services, she said.

VLA also provides legal services in its Dandenong and Frankston offices, as well as its help-line.

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NEWS

Stolen car sparked blaze

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A torched stolen car has sparked a fast-moving grass and scrub fire that blazed through a shed and threatened homes and businesses in Bangholme.

The fire spewed plumes of black smoke as it spread west from Harwood Road about 5pm on Monday 4 March.

At the height of the crisis, residents at Willow Lodge retirement village were evacuated as authorities issued an emergency warning for Bangholme, Lyndhurst and Dandenong South about 6pm.

“The smoke was the scariest thing,” a Willow Lodge resident said.

“It came right over the village.”

Another resident said the first he knew of the fire was when he was evacuated from his unit by police.

“I didn’t hear the sirens. I didn’t hear a thing.”

Residents say they were assembled in openair evacuation points, including at the lodge’s entrance on Frankston-Dandenong Road.

Police say a stolen 2006 Audi sedan was set alight, with the fire spreading to nearby dry grass.

It had been stolen from a residence in Olive Street, Dandenong between 3 and 4 March.

An evacuated resident described the car fire as“a pretty stupid thing to do, especially in this sort of weather”.

“You get a lot of hoons in the paddocks.”

A witness Matt, who works at Fresh Cafe, said the fire exploded in intensity as it engulfed a farm shed.

“I went out to do a delivery and I saw the smoke out the back.

“The flames then raced across the field.

“Once the shed went up, that’s when the flames started to get big.”

The incinerated car next to dry grass is roped off by police at Harwood Road, Bangholme.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Water-bomber 'Delilah' helps bring the threatening blaze under control. 191104 Picture: ROB CAREW

Water-bomber 'Delilah' above the scene of devastation. The farmhouse is saved but not a Picture: ROB CAREW large shed (rear). 191104

The height of the blaze as it engulfs a farm shed, according to witnesses. Picture: SUPPLIED

The fire's fierce flames and smoke, as seen from Willow Lodge. Picture: SUPPLIED

When the ‘Delilah’ water-bomber arrived, the fire was quickly under control, he said.

“It’s a stupid thing to steal and set fire to a car anyway.

“They were putting a lot of people in danger - how stupid can you get?”

About 24 fire tankers from Dandenong, Carrum Downs, Cranbourne, Narre Warren and Rowville helped quell the fire.

It was declared under control about 6.50pm, and extinguished by 11.30pm.

Fire-danger period restrictions are in place

in Greater Dandenong until 1 May. In this period, fires can’t be lit in the open without a permit.

Any information on the car theft and fire to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

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IN BRIEF

Danger warning for school crush-zone

By Cam Lucadou-Wells You don’t have to tell Louise Ferguson about the dangers of the school-day traffic jams at Woodlee Street outside Dandenong North Primary School.

Ms Ferguson was crushed between two vehicles as she tried to “manage” traffic so she could get her car out of her driveway during school drop-off time on 13 December.

As she helped a learner driver extricate their car from a tight parking spot, the driver wedged Ms Ferguson between her vehicle and a parked van.

Ms Ferguson’s pelvis was fractured and her lumbar spine damaged as a result.

It came after many dire warnings from the school and families to Greater Dandenong Council.

Every school peak time, the narrow street is clogged with two-way traffic glacially weaving through parked cars and one lane of space.

Despite the risk, parents and children cross between the stagnant cars.

“They should make it one-way at school peak-times,” Ms Ferguson said.

“It would be safer and the traffic would be flowing.

“What’s it going to take for them to do something - a child to lose their life out there?”

At other times, there is reported speeding and a nearby “death trap” corner at Edward Avenue regularly cut or even missed by cars.

Ms Ferguson’s car has been written off by a speeding car, another motorist was pushed off the road onto her nature strip. She tells of another car careering through a neighbour’s fence and narrowly missing the resident’s kids.

Dandenong North Primary School principal Kevin Mackay agrees with making the street one-way, with a parking area reserved for pick-ups and drop-offs.

Shot course in crashed car A man believed to be aged in his 50s has been found dead with gunshot wounds in a crashed car in Dandenong.

The man was found in a car that crashed in a pole in Dawn Avenue on Sunday 3 March about 9.55pm.

Homicide Squad detectives believe it was a “targeted” killing.

Police have not linked it to shootings in Kensington and Meadow Heights in recent days.

Any information, including dash cam footage, to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Spot fires on cycle path

A parent and child cross amongst stalled traffic and parked cars during drop-off time on Woodlee Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Street. 190894 A driver drove through the school fence last year, swerving to miss another motorist trying to beat the traffic” in Woodlee Street, Mr Mackay said.

The school’s population has more than doubled since 30 years ago, spilling more parked cars into the neighbouring streets.

He said the problem had “blown up” since Dandenong Hospital staff had been forced to park in neighbouring streets.

“I understand the angst of our residents and I share it.

“We’ve talked to the council over decades.

We’ve revisited it many, many times.

“If it was me picking up my kids, I’d park near the shops in Menzies Avenue and I’d walk down.”

At a recent council meeting, Councillor Matthew Kirwan called for the council to in-

vestigate traffic calming measures and extra school crossings.

Greater Dandenong engineering services director Julie Reid said investigations found a one-way system on Woodlee Street would not help traffic flow or safety.

“The traffic volumes and congestion on David Street mean that a southbound one-way system would not noticeably reduce congestion.

“A northbound one-way system would mean that all pupils would have to cross the road to get picked up.

“Introducing a one-way system would compromise road safety, encourage higher traffic speeds and increase the likelihood of a serious accident.”

Ms Reid said parents parking slightly further away from the school were able to avoid the congestion.

A swift-thinking cyclist has reported a suspicious fire in a reserve near the Eastlink bike track in Dandenong North.

The rider discovered three small spot-fires at the base of a large tree near Pinewood Avenue about 3.30pm on Friday 1 March.

Emergency services were contacted, and the small fires were extinguished.

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

Brutal street robbery A man has been beaten unconscious during a robbery by three males in central Dandenong.

The 34-year-old victim had his phone and wallet stolen during the assault in front of Dimmey’s in Langhorne Street Dandenong.

He is believed to have been knocked out for several hours afterwards.

The attack is believed to have happened between 11pm on Friday 1 March and 6am on Saturday 2 March.

The victim walked home then was taken to The Alfred hospital with a suspected broken jaw.

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

Jail for ham-fisted armed robber as weapons left behind

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Two would-be armed robbers left behind their weapons and apparel as they fled their botched attempted crime in Dandenong North, the County Court of Victoria has heard.

Nicholas James Cheaib, 31, had enlisted a co-offender Mehmet Mehmet to lay in wait with him near the corner of Fillmore Road and Gatley Court early on 22 February 2018.

Their target was a male believed to have $15,000 at the time. They waited for him to start to drive from his property that morning.

At 6.10am, Mehmet approached behind the victim as he locked his front gate. He pushed an imitation shotgun into his ribs and told him: “Don’t move. Don’t move.”

Beforehand, Mehmet had been told that his partner-in-crime would then take the lead.

But instead Cheaib fled north to Hill Court, discarding his machete, gloves and jumper and jumping over a back fence.

Meanwhile, the victim and Mehmet exchanged punches on the ground for several minutes.

The victim told him: “If I let go, are you going to leave?”

Mehmet fled in a rental getaway car, leaving behind his imitation gun, his wallet with ID, a glove, a shoe and sock.

The hold-up nonetheless had a lasting impact on the victim who feared for his and his family’s life, the County Court heard.

On 5 March, Cheaib faced sentencing after

pleading guilty to attempted armed robbery.

He had earlier denied to police of his involvement. He instead accused Mehmet and his brother of the crime.

His DNA was however found on one of his discarded gloves.

In a police statement, Mehmet implicated Cheaib in masterminding the robbery. Cheaib enlisted him to help, as well as provided the weapons, a rented car and the information that the victim may have been cashed-up, Mehmet claimed.

Mehmet received a sentence discount for providing information to the prosecution. He was jailed for two years, three months in the Victorian County Court last year.

Judge Michael O’Connell on 5 March not-

ed Cheaib’s nomadic childhood as well as his solid work history including being business development manager at Boost Juice.

His descent into criminality and meth abuse had happened relatively late in life, the judge said.

“While you were able to function at some level while abusing methamphetamines, you acquired significant debts, which you say provided the motivation for your offending.”

Cheaib’s prospects to reclaim his life were good, Judge O’Connell said.

At the time of the robbery, Cheaib was on a deferred jail sentence for extortion, drug trafficking and property damage.

He was jailed for up to three years, with an 18-year non-parole period.

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LOOKING BACK

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

housed in the new building, on the Melbourne road. Mr Langford, the principal, who was well received, thanked the speakers for the hearty welcome, and said he hoped to be able to "make good" and show successful results. The girls are being accommodated in the Rechabite hall and the boys at the Fire Brigade station. There are about 80 enrolled mostly from Dandenong, and the prospects are bright. We congratulate the committee, and all who have worked for this result.

100 years ago 13 March 1919 Opening of Dandenong High School A good "push off" What may well be recorded as quite an event in the history of Dandenong, took place on Tuesday morning, when the committee which has been pushing the High School Project, met.

The shire president (Cr Abbott) welcomed the teachers and scholars to the opening of what must prove a great movement for the advancement of our town and district. He said he wold like to assure the teachers of the fullest support, and would remind the boys and girls the reputation of the school and district was very much in their hands. It would not be long before they were

50 years ago 11 March 1969 Commercial lift for Railway Pde We call it Dandenong West for want of a clearer definition, but in real it comes from pieces of Dandenong, Noble Park, and Park-

more. The new shopping centre in Railway Pde, - a mini commercial power drawing from major housing estates that sprouted 1000 new homes since 1967. It will be a giant step forward tomorrow when a new supermarket opens, along with a hairdressing salon, chemist, and butchers shop.

20 years ago 8 March 1999 Crime explodes SPRINGVALE'S escalating drug problem has been exposed in the latest Victoria Police figures for drug crimes in the central business district. Operation Belgrade, a program which has been running for the past four years has just finished its first complete year and has recorded more than 1000 arrests. The crime

co-ordinator for police D District, Detective Inspector John Noonan, said the figures indicated the area's severe drug problem.

5 years ago 10 March 2014 Its none of our Business but Allied Pickfords will move 368 council workers plus library staff into their new home this weekend. Between 5pm on Friday and 9am Monday crews will relocate from City of Greater Dandenong's Springvale Road, Clow Street, and Thomas Street. They will shift more than 1000 archive cartons of paperwork, 360 computers, and 10 truckloads of miscellaneous items - despite regular cleanouts in recent months.

- Compiled by Dandenong & District Historical Society

Now harder for sponsors The Australian Government is making it harder for sponsors to get their loved ones to live together in Australia.

Immigration matters are complex and especially for onshore partner visa applications.

Last year the Government passed a law for a more onerous, two-stage applications for partner visas that could take up to five years.

The law will come into force by 10 June, or even earlier if the Government makes a proclamation to do so.

It will require a sponsor's application to be approved before a partner visa application can be lodged.

This is currently not a requirement.

The partner visa application fee is alone exorbitant, in excess of $7000. And soon sponsors will pay a sponsorship fee on top of this.

I've never seen such laws before.

I've worked in the migration field for over 25 years in private and in federal departments.

I've volunteered for over 10 years at Refugee Legal, a leading organisation in Australia.

COMMUNITY

VOICE THAY HORN YIM IMMIGRATION SERVICE DIRECTOR

The City of Greater Dandenong has among the highest numbers of residents of a nonEnglish-speaking background who collectively speak 120 languages. Many are involved in loving relationships from their ethnic backgrounds.

While the intention is to make our community safer by strengthening character provisions and barring family violence offenders, it is harder for partner visa applicants to lodge onshore validly and successfully.

For example, a couple are in love in Australia, and the female partner is pregnant.

The partner application cannot be lodged validly without prior approval of sponsorship.

The processing time will soon take longer for the first stage, up to two years and for the second stage, up to three years.

In that time, the visa applicant may not have the right to work or Medicare.

That is an awful long time for love!

Many may know of an increase of refusals and/or cancellations due to the Department of Immigration's use of data matching. This can include finding a social media account opened under an undeclared, alternative name.

The department has changed its way of processing.

The partner applications must be lodged with full supporting documents or be subject to refusal without further request.

Fraudulent documents or identities and faulty statements of claims including family composition have a real consequence of refusal/cancellation.

The fraudulent documents are assessed regardless of who submitted it, either by interpreters, friends or 'middle-persons.'

THE CARPET CENTRE SUPERSTORE

The applicants for visa or citizenship will be responsible for any mistake. Even after getting a permanent visa, you then apply to become an Australian citizen. Your citizenship application could be refused and/or your permanent visa could be cancelled.

Worst of all, there have been many trying to get help from a scam agent without checking if the agent is qualified and has a Migration Agent Registration Number (MARN) registering with the Department of Home Affairs.

My clients come from various backgrounds/ countries like South-Asia and the Horn of Africa ranging from a low-educated person to a church/temple minister with a PhD who used to help his own church/temple followers.

It is a minefield for partner applications to lodge validly and successfully without getting immigration assistance from a Registered Migration Agent (RMA).

People who are think about lodging partner applications are wise to seek advice from an RMA before lodging.

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School Tours Sunday 24 March 10.00am

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NEWS

Hope up for works

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Emerson School is hoping for a feast after a famine of much-needed works over decades.

On the wishlist is a major redevelopment of the specialist school's original campus to start as early as November.

It was hoped to coincide with a long-overdue signalised pedestrian crossing linking its campuses over Heatherton Road's four lanes of "omnipresent danger" in Dandenong North, principal John Mooney said.

At one stage, the school was told by VicRoads there needed to be a "death at our front gate" for a crossing to be built.

Mr Mooney knows of no other school that lacks even a pedestrian crossing for the safe passage of its students.

At times, he's resorted to donning a fluoro vest and playing traffic cop in front of streams of traffic on Heatherton Road.

"Where does the responsibility for the safety of our students, their parents and carers start and finish?" Mr Mooney said.

Finally, after more than 10 years of lobbying, there's some cause for hope on both projects.

VicRoads has recently assigned someone to work on a design for a crossing and signals for pedestrians and motorists accessing the school.

In another encouraging sign, the school recently received department approval for the "schematic design" of a $14.1 million stage 1 redevelopment.

Mr Mooney said the school - the largest specialist school in the state - had not received "a dollar of funding" for capital works since 1973.

As a result, it is home to some of the state's oldest portable classrooms, with staff members working in foyers and construction sheds due to a lack of space.

Mr Mooney hopes for the redevelopment

Rosina Iannuzzi,centre, with her children Toni, Pio, Lina, Frank and Josie. 190906 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Principal John Mooney watches unfettered streams of traffic in front of Emerson School. 191118 Picture: GARY SISSONS funding to be announced in the upcoming 2019 State Budget, though the Government has a host of other big-ticket election promises to deliver.

The State Government allocated $500,000 for a full masterplan for the school in last year's State Budget.

Meanwhile, Greater Dandenong Council has joined the school in lobbying for a safe crossing on Heatherton Road as an urgent priority.

"Council, along with Victoria Police and members of the school community, are very concerned about the safety of students attending Emerson School," Greater Dandenong engineering services director Julie Reid said.

"The number of complaints from parents

and motorists about the risk taking behavior of students attempting to cross Heatherton Road between the two campuses has escalated and the issue has now reached a critical level."

Acting Inspector Graeme Stanley, in a letter of support, wrote that motorists don't always obey the 40km/h speed restrictions, placing children, parents and carers at additional risk.

"Multiple speed and road offences have been detected during the restricted speed time frames.

"The situation is in my opinion now critical."

There's clearly a lot of water to go under the bridge, but now Mr Mooney's hope is for the two key projects to be "seamlessly" completed together.

Centenarian’s song of praise A great-great-grandmother has been feted by family, her lifelong best friend and councillors during her 100th birthday celebrations.

Rosina Iannuzzi drew the crowd for her milestone birthday at her residence Belvedere Aged Care in Noble Park on 4 March.

During the ceremony, she broke into song an Italian piece to praise God for her long life.

Greater Dandenong mayor Roz Blades and councillor Maria Sampey were also in attendance.

The day before, she was taken out to a restaurant by family, including five children, 17 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Born in Alta Monte, Calabria, Ms Iannuzzi is still fond of Italian cooking as well as keeping in touch with her expansive family.

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Casey deputy mayor Rosalie Crestani is standing for election in the Australian Senate.

Cr Crestani has been endorsed as the lead candidate of Christian conservative party Rise Up Australia.

Her platform includes foreign-owned companies paying a "fair share" of tax, tightening border security and to investigate building thorium nuclear reactors or battery supplies.

Thorium was a potential means for lower energy prices and cleaner emissions, Cr Crestani said.

Being more stable than uranium, "it is feasible and it's something that Australia is ready for".

She fears that the medevac-ing of sick asylum seekers from Manus Island to Christmas Island or the Australian mainland for hospital treatment could be exploited by people smugglers.

She would like the "loophole" closed, with rare exceptions such as orphaned children. No other family members would be allowed to follow them to Australia.

Cr Crestani does not support the Greater Dandenong Council-led campaign for the Government to reverse its cuts to Status Resolution Support Services payments to asylum seekers living in the community.

The council argues that the cuts leave hundreds of asylum seekers and their families without income and destitute.

The Labor Party has pledged to reverse the cuts, if elected to Government.

"There's too much support now. The aged

Rosalie Crestani is running for Rise Up Australia for Senate elections. pensioners are missing out on the support they need ," Cr Crestani said.

"We have to strike a good balance."

Cr Crestani says she's willing to work with any party or independent.

She describes Prime Minister Scott Morrison as a "great leader compared to what's been in the past".

A large field of small parties is expected to contest and make the Senate's make-up nearly impossible to predict.

One of the players is the much-advertised United Australia Party fronted by Clive Palmer.

"I certainly think he's got more money than us," Cr Crestani quipped.

"We can be trusted. If we can be faithful with a little (money), we can then be faithful with a lot."

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Afghan star's bound for Dandy

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Rugby star Oneata shines

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Going for goal in the world game

Going for goal in the world game A soccer showcase in Dandenong will kick things up a notch in the race for an A-League team. Gach Chuol, Greater Dandenong Councillor Jim Memeti and Sukart Alex got in some practice ahead of the Saturday 16 June event. See page 7 for the full story. 181655 Picture: GARY SISSONS

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Property Lift out

A soccer showcase in Dandenong will kick things up a notch in the race for an A-League team. Gach Chuol, Greater Dandenong Councillor Jim Memeti and Sukart Alex got in some practice ahead of the Saturday 16 June event. See page 7 for the full story. 181655 Picture: GARY SISSONS

His life for others

By Casey Neill

Lee Tarlamis.

Lee Tarlamis says his older brother’s cancer battle inspired him to spend his life helping those less fortunate.

His service culminated in a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List, announced on Monday 11 June.

The Noble Park man and former state Upper House MP received the nod for service to the people and Parliament of Victoria “I’m extremely humbled. It’s not something that I’d expected,” he said.

“I didn’t do it to get acknowledgement.

“It was about wanting to provide assistance and help to people.

“It’s a view that I formed very early on.”

Mr Tarlamis said his brother fought cancer for two years before dying at age 17.

“The trouble and the stress that the family went through, I saw how positive he was

throughout those two years,” he said.

“It instilled in me that as tough as I think I have things, there are always people out there who are doing it a lot worse than me.

“That’s why I got involved in the local community.”

Initially that was through the Keysborough Learning Centre.

“The centre loaned me a computer for me to do my school work,” he said.

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“I wanted to repay the favour so I was volunteering time with them.”

There he met then-politician Eddie Micallef and became his electorate officer.

“That’s how I got into the politics world,” Mr Tarlamis said.

“That opened up a lot of opportunities to provide assistance to community groups.”

He never intended to run for parliament, but “one thing lead to another which lead to another” and he was a South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP from 2010 to 2014.

“That was such an honour as well, when you consider the fact that very few people get to hold that position and represent that large number of people,” he said.

Mr Tarlamis was a Springvale Benevolent Society volunteer from 2002 to 2012, a Noble Park Community Action Forum member for many years, a founding Springvale Multicultural Men’s Shed committee member, and more.

He’s now a senior advisor to Special Minister of State Gavin Jennings.

The world of politics is not where he thought he’d end up.

The Tarlamis family moved from Oakleigh to Keysborough when he was eight months old.

He went to Wallarano Primary School in Noble Park and to Chandler Secondary College, where Keysborough College’s Acacia campus now stands.

Mr Tarlamis went on to study an associate diploma of business.

“I grew up working with dad in the family businesses,” he said.

“I thought it would be logical that I would go into the business world and maybe into management or something like that.

“I really enjoyed the community stuff.

“Politics became that vehicle to do it.”

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Monday, 11 March, 2019

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NEWS

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Getting a kick of confidence

D-Day - as in D for Demolition - looms as cyclists have pitched a last-ditch effort to save Maurice Kirby Velodrome in Noble Park.

At a meeting on 12 March, Greater Dandenong Council is set to vote again on fast-tracking the Parkfield Reserve track's removal.

In response, the pro-velodrome group staged a protest on State Parliament steps and collecting a last-minute petition of local signatures.

The cyclists' five-member protest on 5 March attracted the support of Opposition upper house leader and public transport spokesperson David Davis.

The senior Liberal MP used question time on 5 March to ask the State Government whether it would act to "protect a key part of Victoria's cycling history ... from the imminent destruction planned by the City of Greater Dandenong".

"The Maurice Kirby Velodrome is a facility of broader metropolitan and statewide significance, it's of historic importance," Mr Davis told Star News.

"We need to encourage cycling and this provides a very safe venue for learners including families and experienced cyclists alike.

"The silence of local member (and Premier) Daniel Andrews on the appalling plans of the City of Greater Dandenong does him no credit."

Recently, the club lodged a submission for the track's heritage listing. Heritage Victoria rejected the claim, finding the track was not of statewide significance.

Star News contacted the State Government for comment.

On the other side, just as impassioned, are the reserve's cricket, soccer and tennis clubs.

They back the council's $11 million masterplan for the reserve which includes a multi-

Teaching tae kwon do is to prepare people for competition in the streets, not in the ring, says chief master instructor John Smolcic.

A practitioner for 42 years, the 8th Dan Black Belt leads classes at Moon Lee Tae Kwon Do Centre in Dandenong.

Most people take up the traditional selfdefence martial art for fitness and confidence, Mr Smolcic said.

Some of his students enter the police force, others are managers, nurses, doctors and teachers.

Where there is trouble, the best advice is to walk away safely, Mr Smolcic says.

“Martial arts isn’t about being mean and tough.

“No, we’re about good character, good confidence and self-discipline.

“The most important thing is to be confident and defuse the situation where we can.

“If you’ve got no confidence, you can’t fight.”

If someone draws a knife, you’re best to walk away and not “die a hero”.

Mr Smolcic learnt his craft under 80-yearold Grand Master Moon Lee, who started the centre in 1974.

His mentor still trains and grades him to this day.

It runs classes for all ages and levels.

The centre won plenty of championships in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s but it’s not the focus now, he says.

“Our main competition is out on the street rather than the ring.”

Moon Lee Tae Kwon Do Centre is in 19 Bennet Street, Dandenong. Details: 9706 9211.

Race to finish line

Pro-velodrome protesters Boyd Fraser, Cheryl Lambert, David Koroknai, Horace Lim and ''Skippy'' at Parliament House on 5 March.

Picture: SUPPLIED sport pavilion, an expanded oval, a shared path as well as the velodrome's removal.

They claim the cyclist group are a minority, at odds to the prevailing community view.

Parkfield Cricket Club secretary David Swierzbiolek said there was frustration that "five people are trying to hold up the masterplan, which is something the community wants".

"I can definitely say there was community consultation.

"Even when the masterplan was developed, we've been putting it up on our windows at Parkfield Reserve.

"Anyone using the reserve would have seen it up."

The cycling group was also set to lodge a

petition opposing the velodrome's destruction, signed by residents in neighbouring Dunblane Road.

Spokesman Mark Dalton said 87 signatures were collected, raising doubts over claims that most locals support the council's plan.

"Nearly every house we asked in Dunblane Road signed the petition."

Mr Dalton said there were also doubts over the effectiveness of the council's community consultation on the plan - including nearly 7000 postcards sent to nearby residents.

"None said they had received the notice that council says they posted out, or saw any council representatives before or after the masterplan draft was put out."

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STAR JOURNAL 7

NEWS

Smiling change champion

By Narelle Coulter

Guest speaker Sadhana Smiles, centre, with ANZ representatives Brenda Wong and Rasika Alwis. and women’s safety.

After the brutal murder of Jill Meagher, Ms Smiles created the Walk A Mile initiative whereby Harcourt’s staff, both male and female, strap on high heels and march to raise awareness about domestic violence and raise money for White Ribbon initiatives in schools.

To date, Walk A Mile has raised half a million dollars and helped White Ribbon get its message into 300 schools.

“If I am proud of anything I have achieved then it is this. It is the legacy I leave behind. I

can’t see our organisation every dropping it.“ Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said she won’t be satisfied that she has succeed in her job until the statistics around domestic violence improve.

“Violence against women is still the leading cause of death and disability for women aged 15 to 44,“ Ms Williams said.

“We need to disrupt the culture that allows it to happen.

“When women are equal and valued, the whole community has a lot to gain.“

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Sadhana Smiles didn’t just break through the glass ceiling on her way to becoming CEO of real estate company Harcourts Victoria. She had to break out of a glass box.

The 2013 Victorian Telstra Business Woman of the Year was guest speaker at an International Women’s Day breakfast hosted by the South East Business Network (SEBN) and the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce on Friday.

“We talk about the glass ceiling, I was born in a glass box,“ she told the largely female audience, which included Minister for Women Gabrielle Williams.

Ms Smiles was referring to her journey from a girl growing up in conservative Fiji in the 1970s (her grandfather had been transported from India as a slave) to her role as a champion of change in the corporate world.

“When I won the Telstra Business Award I looked terrified,“ she said, displaying a photograph of herself taken at the awards ceremony in 2013.

“Like so many other women, I didn’t think I was ready to win it. I thought I hadn’t ticked all the boxes.

“We were given a table at the back of the room, which usually means you haven’t won, so I started enjoying the night drinking copious amounts of Champagne.“ When her name was announced, Ms Smile’s remembers being stunned. Her father, unable to hide his joy, stood up and started Bollywood dancing.

She said women should not be hampered by the voice in their head telling them they are not ready for the next challenge, the next promotion or the next award.

“Find a way to ignore that voice. Be courageous, take that leap of faith. And even if you are not successful, the journey will be worth it.“

Ms Smiles said winning the Telstra award gave her influence and a voice on issues that were important to her - gender equality and workplace diversity.

As a Fijian Indian Australian she is outspoken on the need to increase diversity in Australian workplaces.

“In a country built on immigration, the richness and diversity of our communities is not being represented in corporate Australia or at a government level,“ Ms Smiles said.

“The double glazed glass ceiling is so real for women of ethnic backgrounds. I ask leaders to become hyper aware of cultural diversity in their organisations.

“Often the issue of balance and diversity is outsourced to HR. This is an issue for leaders, it is a business strategy issue.“ Ms Smiles was educated in Fiji and then at Melbourne’s Tintern Girls School.

“My parents sent me to Australia to become a lady and get an education. I had my mind on freedom and boys,“ she said, laughing.

After nearly failing her VCE, Ms Smiles studied hospitality management at TAFE, before marrying her boyfriend of six months because her student visa was about to expire.

She said it wasn’t until she was in her 40s that she set her focus on achieving her career goals.

She is now a great believer in planning and setting goals, both personal and professional.

Each year Ms Smiles has dinner with a close girlfriend, where they review their goals from the past year and set new ones for the year ahead.

She sticks her new goals on her shower wall, “so I see them every day“.

“Writing it down keeps you focussed on the direction you want your life to lead.“ Ms Smiles has also been a champion of change when it comes to domestic violence

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Monday, 11 March, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 11

property

START OUT IN STYLE PAGE 14 MONDAY, 11 MARCH, 2019 5 February, 2018

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STYLISH START, LEAVE THE CAR AT HOME WHETHER you are looking to start out in style, add to your investment portfolio or downsize to an easy care property where you can simply lock up and leave, this two storey townhouse is the perfect choice.

Offering a convenient location, you are literally a stone’s throw from the best of what Keysborough has to offer - cafes, restaurants, shops, gym facilities and parks are all at your doorstep so leave the car at home!

Fusing comfort and space with a storage packed practical design, the home comprises three spacious robed bedrooms, two bathrooms, a front living room and a rear open plan kitchen and meals area.

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HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 5/21 Graham-Michele Place, KEYSBOROUGH, VIC 3173 Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: $490,000-$539,000 Inspect: By appointment Auction: 16 March 11am Contact: Jaymee Le - 0416 336 902 or Leo Widjaja - 0430 355 225, AREA SPECIALIST

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*Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) provides you with priority notiication of when it is time to reserve your chosen home, once it is oicially released for sale. All EOI payments are fully refundable if you change your mind. Information about services and facilities is correct at time of printing. Images are for illustrative purposes only. January 2019. Published by Lendlease RL Realty (VIC) Pty Ltd ABN 55 124 646 484

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HOME FOCUS

IN THE HEART OF CHELSEA NESTLED within a boutique group of five, this lovely single-level unit features a low maintenance design that will give you an easy and carefree lifestyle.

Positioned perfectly in the heart of Chelsea, 600m away from the sand, the property has been freshly painted and offers an open plan, light filled lounge, renovated kitchen with new dishwasher and a separate laundry.

The two bedrooms both have built-in robes with mirrored sliding doors. The second bedroom has access to a lovely private courtyard, great for relaxing after a hard day at work.

A fresh central bathroom with bath, split system heating/cooling, quality carpets throughout and a car park on the title complete the picture.

This is the perfect opportunity for downsizers, first home buyers and investors alike. Located close to Chelsea beach and shops, the train station is at the end of the street and Bicentennial Park close by. â—?

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 2/32 Woodbine Grove, CHELSEA, VIC 3196 Description: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathrooms, 1 garage Price: $399,500 - $439,450 Inspect: As per advertised, or by appointment Contact: Art Sudharm 0403 571 245 or art.s@obre.com.au, OBRIEN REAL ESTATE

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Monday, 11 March, 2019

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STAR REAL ESTATE

15

NEWS

Man wanted for lewdness

Palm Plaza Lotto's Sineth Sar, Uyen Tran and Bun Saretii celebrate the latest lotto win. 191149

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Transit Crime Investigation Unit is appealing for public assistance to identify a man after he allegedly showed pornography to a 10-yearold child.

Investigators have been told the man asked the boy to sit next to him on a Melbourne bound train before showing the young boy pornographic images on his phone on 24 January.

The incident happened between Sandown Station and Oakleigh Station about 11.20am.

It is believed the man boarded at Dandenong Railway station.

The offender was wearing a blue cap, blue short sleeved shirt, blue jeans and runners.

The man is perceived to be of Asian appearance and aged in his 50s.

Detectives have released an image of a man they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.

Anyone who recognises this man or who may have witnessed this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Tatts outlet’s touch Dandenong TattsLotto agency Palm Plaza Lotto seems to have the Midas touch.

On Saturday 2 March, a Lysterfield woman won the $1.98 million division one prize the fourth top prize winning entry sold at the agency in less than 18 months.

Palm Plaza Lotto owner Sineth Sar said she put it down to the outlet's good karma.

"I think we are a lucky store because a little

while ago we did a renovation, and when we re-opened I made sure everything aligned with feng shui.

"We also had the re-opening blessed by a monk so I think the good energy in store makes our customers think positively."

Ms Sar also said she had great relationships with her customers - some of whom were like "family".

"We do a lot of work in the local community and I think that brings good karma to us and our customers.

"We are so excited for our winner! We wish them all the best."

Meanwhile the winner said she'd use her windfall to pay off her home mortgage, and to visit her family overseas.

Police hope to identify this man.

Info & Open Day Saturday 23rd March 10am – 2pm

At some places $650,000 might get you a nice home. At the Lexington Gardens Over 55s Community it gets you a pool and spa, café, large workshop for woodworking and hobbies, tennis court, billiards parlour, gym, bowling green, cinema, resident’s bar, library, vegetable garden, hairdressing salon, landscaped gardens and a private bus service. As well as a very nice – brand new – home.

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Display & Information Centre | 114 Westall Road, Springvale | lexingtongardens.com.au | 1800 550 550 *Submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) provides you with priority notiication of when it is time to reserve your chosen home, once it is oicially released for sale. Pricing correct at time of printing but subject to change without notice. Information about services and facilities is correct at time of printing. Residents pay service fees for the operation and maintenance of the village and facilities. Images are for illustrative purposes only. March 2019. Published by Lendlease RL Realty (VIC) Pty Ltd ABN 55 124 646 484

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Monday, 11 March, 2019

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

WHAT’S ON

Tunes for harmony

Harmony Day

A showcase of Afghan poets, musicians and performers are drumming up a serious, topical message.

During the Balance For Better event, the performers navigate the complex issue of gender inequality - a driver of violence against women.

Among the performers is 52-year-old singer and classical musician Ustad Ghani Qasimi.

The event is being supported by Women's Health in the South East (WHISE), Victorian Afghan Associations Network, Bakhtar Cultural Society, Wellsprings for Women, Afghan Youth Organisation Australia and United Cultural Support.

WHISE chief executive Kit McMahon says art is a great vehicle to explore complex issues such as intergenerational conflict.

"The evidence around using cultural vehicles to assist creating harmony in the community is well documented. It's been going on for decades around the world."

Balance For Better is on Saturday 16 March, 7pm-11pm at Somerville Receptions, 35 Somerville Road, Hampton Park.

Tickets are essential. They are available from Victorian Afghan Associations Network, Bakhtar Cultural Society, Wellsprings for Women, Afghan Youth Organisation Australia and United Cultural Support Inc.

A full day of multicultural activities includes live traditional Aboriginal, Chinese, Bollywood, Japanese, Middle-Eastern, African and Polynesian dances, free ‘national-flag’ face painting, a roaming replica elephant and special offers from participating retailers. Children dressed in national costume will receive a free lucky dip and milkshake.

Saturday 16 March at Armada Dandenong Plaza. Details: armadadandenongplaza.com.au

·

Holden show The 11th Dandenong All Holden Show features about 500 chrome and plastic bar Holdens ranging from 1948 FX models to 2017 VF models.

The Wingit Band will play top 40 and Aussie rock music. Food and coffee vans, specialist vendors, a jumping castle and roaming superheroes will also be on hand.

More than 100 trophies will be presented at 1pm.

Sunday 17 March 10am-3pm at Greaves Reserve Dandenong. Entrants can attend from 7am.

Classical musician Ustad Ghani Qasimi will perform at Balance For Better.

·

Creative writing If you’re looking for a way to spark your imagination, why not join us at The Open Door for our Creative Writing Group. The workshop welcomes the sharing of ideas and writing as well as exercises to enhance your creativity.

New writers are welcome. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to play. Suggested gold coin donation.

Thursday 14 March, 10am-noon at The Open Door, 110 Ann Street, Dandenong. Bookings: Trish or Jo, 9791 8664.

·

MAKE THE CALL ASK YOUR ENERGY COMPANY FOR A BETTER DEAL

Harmony Festival Springvale Neighbourhood House presents a Harmony Festival. Includes free family activities such as an international dress parade, community stalls and a cultural concert. A cultural food truck park will be on site.

Sunday 17 March, 12pm-5pm at Harmony Square, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong.

Details: 9548 3972.

·

Learning centre AGM Hallam Community Learning Centre’s 2019 AGM includes a light afternoon tea. All welcome.

Thursday 21 March, 12:30pm at 56 Kays Rd Hallam. Details: 9703 1688.

·

Sing-a-long Join us at The Open Door for a fun and entertaining sing-a-long. We invite you to learn a new song or two, or join in with some favourite oldies. No experience is necessary, just a willingness to join in the chorus and make new friends. We welcome all skill levels and none.

Friday 22 March 1.30pm - 2.30pm (followed by a cuppa till 3pm) at The Open Door, 110 Ann Street, Dandenong. Suggested gold coin donation.

As of January 1st, providers have dropped prices on their most expensively priced plans due to pressure from the Government.

·

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.

But if you really want to save, simply call your energy company and ask them for a better deal.

You could lower your bill by $600 a year.

Visit our website for tips on calling your energy company.

starcommunity.com.au CONTACT US Phone: 5945 0666 ADVERTISING Visit starcommunity.com.au/advertise Email advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone 5945 0666 EDITORIAL Email dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au com.au

Visit networkclassifieds.com.au Email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au Phone 5945 0600

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STAR JOURNAL 17

SPORT

Maighan is making some waves

By Nick Creely

The Dandenong Panthers enjoyed a strong few days in Adelaide. 188123

Picture: ROB CAREW

Panthers battle it out with the best

By Nick Creely Ten of the best Premier Twenty20 sides in Australia came together for the first edition of the National Premier Twenty20 Championship in Adelaide last week, with Dandenong giving it their all to cap off a sublime 12 months with the white ball.

The Panthers - along with fellow Victorian Premier Cricket outfit Carlton - qualified for the tournament which was held on 5 and 6 Match after winning the Victorian Twenty20 title in stunning fashion recently.

Jetting off to Adelaide, the Panthers met North Hobart to kick things off, winning the toss and batting in beautiful conditions.

The Panthers lost dynamic opener James Nanopoulos early, but recovered superbly through the likes of Brett Forsyth (38) and Lincoln Edwards (32), who shared a 53-run

stand, before a late cameo to the talented Zach Grundmann-Perera (21 off 14 balls) helped lift the total to 6/141 off 20.

The Demons looked like they might race down the runs after Corey Murfet (38) got away, but the Panthers rallied like the champion side they are to dismantle the middle order and roll them for just 110 with two balls to spare.

Suraj Randiv (2/30), Jakeb Thomas (2/8), James Nanopoulos (2/17) and GrundmannPerera (2/7) bowled superbly in tandem to guide the Panthers to a dominant victory.

Needing a win to qualify for the finals, the Panthers met Carlton later in the day, hoping to compile yet another victory over their Victorian rivals in a crunch match.

Champion opening pair Tom Donnell (31) and Brett Forsyth (46) sparkled after winning the toss and batting, putting on 73 for the first wicket to help set up what loomed as a monster total.

But aside from a solid 26 by Nanopoulos in the middle, quickie Cam Stevenson (4/3) steamrolled through the middle order to help reduce the Panthers to a gettable 9/138.

A brilliant knock by Evan Gulbis (61 not out) and an equally destructive 51 off 26 from Tom Smyth saw the Blues turn the tables and race down the total with eight wickets and two overs still left.

Narrowly missing out on qualifying for the finals, the Panthers (8/160) finished their tournament the next day by going down to East Torrens (1/173) with Donnell and Forsyth sitting it out to give some youngsters an opportunity.

But it caps off a remarkable 12 months of cricket for the Panthers, who can be extremely pleased of their efforts, and will now turn their attention to defending their Premier Cricket premiership when finals kicks off in the next few weeks.

Basketball sensation Maighan Hedge is making waves in the USA after a stellar first year as a freshman with Cameron University (CU).

Hedge, who was awarded an athletic scholarship, departed in August 2018 to start college life at CU, which is based in Lawton, Oklahoma.

The rising star - who was entrenched within the Dandenong Rangers' system with the Victorian Youth Championship side before jetting off to the states - was recently named the LSC Freshman of the Year, and was also given an honourable mention for the All-LSC. Hedge led Cameron University with 15 points and three assists per game, and posted a 40/40/80 season by shooting 43 per cent from the field, 45 percent from three, and 84 per cent from the foul line.

In the 23 game season, Hedge finished with nine 20-plus point games, staggering numbers for a first year player The star point guard - who is another successful product of the renowned Rowville Sports Academy - told the Journal before departing on her journey last year that she hopes when she comes back to Australia she can bring back plenty of skills for the Rangers.

"I'm looking forward to the professionalism - all the extra training and the way they go about things is exciting," she said.

"After college, I'd like to come back and play SEABL or WNBL, and that's about as far as I've thought at the moment, but at college I'd obviously like to do well."

She also paid credit to the Rangers for all their guidance in getting her, as well as other talented basketballers, to the next level.

"They (Dandenong Rangers) have done a lot of extra training with me when I've asked, and all the coaches have sat down and spoken with me when I've had questions, such as stuff that I need to do better," she said of her home club.

"They're very good personally in developing young athletes and giving them the chance to succeed."

Junior competitions have come together The top-age junior competitions have received a significant boost after AFL South East recently announced the coming together of the Frankston and District Junior Football League (FDJFL) and South East Juniors (SEJ).

The FDJFL and SEJ will unite in competition in both Under-17 Boys and Under-18 Girls after club representatives met with AFLSE Regional general manager John Anderson and chief operating officer Shaun Connell last week.

The meetings came at the request of clubs, to explore the potential interaction of teams in both leagues to address competition concerns across the FDJFL and SEJ. At both meetings, AFLSE received in-principle support from clubs and will now proceed with the challenging task of pulling the competition together.

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The composition of the new league could see up to six divisions of U17 Boys, complemented by a single division of U18 Girls.

The boys competitions will accommodate a mix of top age, bottom age and hybrid teams in graded divisional set ups.

Connell said there were many benefits associated with the new format and thanked clubs for understanding the unique challenges in creating even competitions for both boys and girls to participate in.

"The main objective is to create sustainable and even competitions that provide an incentive for boys and girls to continue to play football," Connell said.

"The combined FDJFL and SEJ model is

Monday, 11 March, 2019

certainly in the best interests of football across the region, and clubs are certainly on board in that regard. Given we now have the mandate of the clubs, we will work on operational matters which need to be sorted out quickly including the creation of new competition rules.

"The clubs have been terrific, recognising that the new model is in the best interests of football and that working through some difficult operational issues will be seen in that light.

"We look forward to working closely with both the FDJFL and SEJ clubs to bring this new competition to fruition. It's an exciting initiative for junior football in the region."

AFL South East will release important information, such as competition management and grading-period fixturing in due course.

Maighan Hedge enjoyed a stellar debut year for Cameron University.

Picture: COURTESY OF DANIEL SPANGLER dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

The Panthers do it easy

By Nick Creely

James Nanopoulos will be a key player for Dandenong in the Victorian Premier Cricket finals. 189836 season with Brett Forsyth (962 runs at 80.17) the leading run scorer in the competition, while fellow opener Tom Donnell (575 runs at 38.33), James Nanopoulos (439 runs at 54.88) and Lincoln Edwards (303 runs at 25.88) all enjoyed strong individual seasons with the willow.

With the ball, Nanopoulos (27 wickets at 17.87), left-arm tweaker Akshat Buch (23 runs at 29.22) and James Wilcock (18 wickets at 21.89) were the standouts for the Panthers.

In the seconds, Dandenong finished the season in 10th position after losing its final home-and-away clash to the Hawks at

Thunder’s rollercoaster start continues

By Nick Creely Dandenong Thunder’s topsy turvy start to the NPL season continued on Saturday night, going down to Altona Magic 1-3 at home after a slow start.

The Thunder lost its opening round clash before bouncing back with two wins on the road in consecutive weeks, so fronted up in front of its home crowd with plenty of confidence. But it took just minutes for the Magic to find its mojo, capitalising on a deflected shot from a corner that perhaps luckily made its way into the bottom left corner, setting the tone for the match and immediately placing the home side under the pump.

A strong strike in the 15th minute that crashed into the back of the net gave the Magic an early 2-0 lead, with the shell-shocked home side unable to pick up the pieces and settle into the contest.

Despite improving on a horror first 20 minutes, the Thunder came into half-time with a

Brandon Barnes’ Dandenong Thunder will need to bounce back after a tough loss on Saturday Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS night. 190253 2-0 deficit, urgently needing to lift its pressure game and control possession.

But both sides managed to score in the second half, with Thunder going down in disappointing fashion, leaving the side with a 2-2 record and sitting sixth on the table.

Picture: CATHERINE SMITH Shepley.

Set 295 to win, the Panthers were rolled for 215, with Pete Sweeney top-scoring with 79.

In the thirds, Dandenong were 4/81 chasing 195 on Sunday after the Journal went to print, while in the fourths, the Panthers (6/312) thumped the Hawks (160) at Wilson Oval.

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In Round 5, the Thunder takes on Heidelberg United on Saturday night away from home, and will be looking for a swift bounce back.

Dandenong City, meanwhile, picked up its first win in the top flight of the NPL against Green Gully, staving off the home side for a 2-3 victory. Courtesy of three goals to Anthony Poljak, City enjoyed a strong afternoon at the office, and as a result, relieving some pressure off the club after a tough start to the season.

The visitors went in 2-2 against the Gully, but Poljak’s third strike - one of the more important of his career - in the 58th minute, was the match winner, with the home side unable to rally and level the scores again.

In NPL2 East, Springvale White Eagles levelled 1-1 with Melbourne City at La Trobe University in Bundoora, with both sides unable to find the match-winning strike in the second half.

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Dandenong has ended the home and away season in fourth spot and will now turn its attention to the Victorian Premier Cricket finals after a seamless win against Kingston Hawthorn on Saturday at Walt Galt Reserve.

On day two of the Panthers’ clash with the Hawks, the visitors resumed at 1/50 after the surprise loss of the in-form Brett Forsyth for 20, and with a little bit more work to do after the home side posted a lowly 150 in the first dig.

Tom Donnell (31) remained patient through the morning and early afternoon to help steady the visitors, combining with a classy Cameron Forsyth (61) for a strong 52-run stand before the skipper fell to leave the visitors 2/87, but still well and truly in the box seat.

Forsyth continued to play his shots in what was a vital innings in the middle before finals, and his highest score in the ones for the season, launching at the target with Comrey Edgeworth (72 not out), who made the most of his chance in the first XI by posting an assured half-century. Edgeworth carved nine boundaries in his fine knock coming from just his second game in the top side for the season, and ultimately putting his hand up to earn a finals spot.

After crossing for the first innings points with seven wickets left in the shed, Lincoln Edwards (53) also took the chance to gain some valuable time batting, while all-rounder James Nanopoulos (31 not out) sent the ball to all parts before stumps was called and the visitors had racked up an imposing 4/283.

It means that the reigning premiers finish in fourth position, setting up a mouth watering qualifying final against Carlton at Princes Park, the same team they defeated in the Victorian Grand Slam and in the Premier Cricket oneday grand final last season.

The Panthers ended the home and away

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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Monday, 11 March, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 23