Dandenong Star Journal - 01st April 2019

DANDENONG

Monday, 1 April, 2019

/DandenongJournal

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

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Festival of great returns James, pictured with his self-designed boomerang, was among more than 1000 to flock to the annual Cultural Diversity Week festival in Dandenong West.

For more, turn to page 14.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Street sex plea Residents in 'inner' Dandenong West are linking a prevalence of street sex workers, drug dealers and menacing perverts to large numbers of "seemingly unregulated" rooming houses.

Greater Dandenong councillor Matthew Kirwan has called for the council, police and the State Government to tackle the locale bordered by Hemmings, Potter, Robinson streets and Railway Parade.

Despite official crime rates falling in the neighbourhood, Cr Kirwan says that offending and anti-social behaviour are anecdotally on the rise.

It was damaging to residents' lives and Dandenong's reputation, he said.

"Most of it is linked to street prostitution in this area, not so much the prostitutes themselves but the behaviour of their clients.

"Female residents in this area, some just teenagers, get stalked by these clients by their

cars following them around.

"Residents in general don't find it safe walking in this area day or night without either being harrassed or witnessing street fights between clients and or between clients and prostitutes."

Cr Kirwan said street prostitutes and drug dealers were visiting clients in "seemingly unregulated" rooming houses in the area.

There is an abundance of 17 legally-registered rooming houses in the neighbourhood.

They are among 68 listed in Dandenong, Dandenong North and Dandenong South.

A further 30 are registered in Noble Park, Noble Park North, Springvale and Springvale South.

Registered rooming houses are inspected and monitored by Consumer Affairs Victoria.

However, according to Greater Dandenong Council, there are no regulations regarding how many rooming houses can be concentrated in a certain area.

The council assesses building permits for

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rooming houses against relevant legislation such as building codes, disability access standards and the Residential Tenancies Act. Most social housing in the municipality was built by the State Government, distributing the houses across the municipality so they "integrate well within the community", Greater Dandenong Council community services director Martin Fidler said.

Police statistics show drug, public order and violent crimes were low in the identified neighbourhood, Mr Fidler said.

"While that does not discredit any perceived fears, social housing is an important form of housing that is currently in short supply."

Star News spoke with two concerned residents in the neighbourhood. One spoke of authorities' "openly complacent stance" to the issues.

On one night this month, a man shot passers-by with a large slingshot as he roamed the

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streets, he said.

This was followed by a street brawl between two sex workers and a male boarding-house resident, and a female resident being stalked by a "gutter crawler" from his car.

"What makes this situation especially horrible is when women do complain to authorities it is treated as though it's an expectation they need to just learn to live with.

"Barely a week goes by without someone needing to call the police in our area."

Some of the identified locale overlaps with a declared area under the Sex Work Act. Since 2016, police are empowered to ban and fine street sex workers.

"Something needs to be done for sex workers. They're living horrible lives with issues with drugs and housing themselves," Cr Kirwan said.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said police were aware of concerns raised by "one resident" in recent months.

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NEWS

Bikes in last ride

By Cam Lucadou-Wells The morning was bitter cold as a hardy band of protesters witnessed the demolition of the Maurice Kirby Velodrome in Noble Park.

Police had peacefully removed the eightperson blockade at Parkfield Reserve, assembled before dawn on Monday 25 March.

Protesters then made an eleventh-hour bid to organise a charity ride for children's cancer at the track, in the hope that the inevitable would be postponed.

Protester Mark Dalton said the idea for the ride was formed a week earlier but had not been formally planned.

"We hadn't continued with the formal planning, due to doubts that the track would still exist."

That morning, the group persuaded the contractor to hold off tearing up the tarmac, while he enquired about the charity ride with the council.

The respite was brief, with Greater Dandenong Council ordering for the track's demolition to continue.

"Council was not aware of any event being planned for Parkfield Reserve, nor has any booking been made," Greater Dandenong Council's engineering services acting director Craig Cinquegrana said.

"Works at the site are continuing as planned."

The track, named after sports legend and Pedals Club of Victoria founder Maurice Kirby, makes way for the council's $11 million upgrade of Parkfield Reserve including a shared walking-cycling path.

It will include a multi-sports pavilion that replaces derelict tennis and cricket clubrooms, as well as an expanded cricket and soccer arena.

The plan has been enthusiastically backed by the reserve's soccer, tennis and cricket

iCook Foods general manager Benjamin Cook and director Ian Cook in the shut-down factory.

191789 Picture: CAM LUCADOU-WELLS Demolition works begin at the former Maurice Kirby Velodrome. clubs, who have long endured inadequate facilities.

However, over the past seven months, cyclists had banded vigorously against the plan and fought Greater Dandenong Council to the bitter end.

Backed by Cycling Victoria, they re-formed Noble Park Dandenong Cycling Club and based themselves at the velodrome.

Kim Nguyen took a last ride on the track before its last rites that morning.

"I'm going to ride as long as possible until they make me get off the track," he said.

"We're extremely sad to see it go.

"It's a disgrace and shameful that our local representatives (Premier) Daniel Andrews and (Sports Minister) Martin Pakula haven't come out and said anything about saving the track for the community."

Maurice Kirby's family publicly denounced the demolition, requesting his name not to be associated with the new reserve.

In a Facebook post, Mr Kirby's daughter Gayle George thanked supporters who fought in vain.

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A human blockade was formed at Parkfield Reserve's entrance early on 25 March.

Picture: BRIANA MONDON "Thanks doesn't seem enough for all the hard work you all did but Dad would be so proud of all your efforts.

"Love, sweat and tears it's a terrible outcome and very disappointing.

"We appreciate all your efforts."

The council has ordered an investigation into building a regional cycling facility. The report is due in July.

Eyesore is squatting under the radar

By Cam Lucadou-Wells You wonder what it will take for the clean-up of a long-standing squatter-house in Scott Street Dandenong.

Star News believes that the three-unit eyesore has been unoccupied - at least by formal tenants - for the past six months.

In that time, the yard has accumulated unsightly piles of rubbish such as white-goods, mattresses, a cot and shopping trolleys. All in plain view of the street.

Curtains billow out of the property's broken window panes, the yard reeks of urine and a stream of people have been seen coming and going.

A pair who emerged from one of the units told Star News that there were a couple of people squatting inside.

"They are doing it pretty hard. They should be gone in a couple of months."

A complainant told Star News that he's given up reporting the "atrocious" situation to Greater Dandenong Council and police.

He surmises that drug dealing and using is in play.

"The police don't want to know about it unless someone is stabbed or assaulted," he claims.

"What do I need to do? Send someone there to be killed?

"You can imagine what it's like living next door. It's a pity that hard-working people living around there have to suffer."

The property's owner plans to demolish the dwelling, the man said.

"The owner of the property didn't even know (about the squatting) until I tracked him down last week.

"He has only just abolished the electricity account - they were using his electricity."

Greater Dandenong city planning and amenity director Jody Bosman said there were currently no complaints open in relation to the property.

"The last complaint relating to this property was received in August/September 2018 and related to dumped rubbish.

"Council has no enforcement powers when it comes to squatting as this is a civil matter between the land owner and the squatters."

Victoria Police was contacted for comment.

Some of the dumped material outside a unit's broken window. 191922

Piles of junk in the yard. 191922

Uncollected mail at the front of the yard. 191922

Garbage trails down the driveway, amassing in the rear car ports. 191922 Picture: CAM LUCADOU-WELLS 2 STAR JOURNAL

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Monday, 1 April, 2019

iCook Foods to sue over shutdown

The squat-house's dishevelled frontage. 191922

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has lifted the closure orders imposed on Dandenong South commercial caterer iCook Foods after a food poisoning scare.

Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Dr Brett Sutton revoked the shutdown order on 28 March - two days after iCook Foods appeared in court claiming it had been unjustly blamed for an elderly hospital patient’s death on 4 February.

According to laboratory tests, the sandwiches in question were technically safe, the company argues.

In a statement, Dr Sutton said he was satisfied that required changes had been made to food handling processes to support the production of safe food.

“The department has worked with the company since the closure to identify and rectify concerns which it believed compromised the production of food safe from the risk of contamination.

“Dr Sutton will ask the Greater Dandenong Council to increase its food safety assessments at the premises and implement a food and environmental sampling plan.” iCook Foods director Ian Cook says the company is being forced to operate under impossibly “onerous” conditions - in which its sandwiches had to be lab-tested before they could be delivered and sold.

The three-day testing period would mean that the food’s safe shelf-life would expire, he said.

Meanwhile, the month-long shutdown and adverse publicity led to supply contracts for Meals on Wheels and seven Healthscope private hospitals being severed, director Ian Cook said.

In effect, the 35-year-old family business with an “unblemished record” had been ruined. “(The DHHS) statement did avoid the fact that I had nothing to do with the patient’s death.

“They are changing the goal posts after they got it so terribly wrong.

“They were so sure that we killed that woman - they got a terrific bit of media, whipped up a storm about Meals on Wheels and the (laboratory) tests didn’t come through.”

Dr Sutton said the 21 February closure order was imposed due to the link between the patient’s death and iCook Foods’ products.

She had been diagnosed with listerioris, which is normally associated with food contamination, the department stated.

A DHHS spokesperson recently told Star News that “the test result ... is only one of a number of samples which were taken and analysed”.

“Genomic sequencing has shown a strong link between food samples from iCook Foods and the elderly woman who died in a private hospital in the eastern suburbs.” dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

IN BRIEF Intruders attack man with hammer

Twenty years’ jail A man who stabbed his wife to death in a "frenzied" attack in their Hallam share-house bedroom has been jailed for at least 20 years.

In a "bitter" argument during Australia Day drinks, Douglas Eustace, 44, murdered Mary Freeman with a large kitchen knife shortly after midnight on 27 January 2018.

It was labelled the "ultimate act of family violence" and the "extreme end of abominable acts" by Supreme Court of Victoria's Justice Lesley Taylor during sentencing on 26 March.

The couple had wed in October 2017, three months after meeting at a party.

Before her killing, Ms Freeman retired to the bedroom after a bitter abusive argument with her husband, the court had heard.

Eustace grabbed a large knife from the kitchen, secreted it in the back of his trousers and went to the bedroom.

During a loud argument, a neighbour heard both parties yelling threats to kill each other.

Eustace later told police that Ms Freeman was flipping a paring knife in her hands.

He inflicted 12 sharp force wounds up to 10 centimetres deep into Ms Freeman's body, arm and leg.

During the attack, she crouched, cried, screamed and tried to cover herself, the court heard.

He was dragged out of the room in a headlock by a housemate but broke free. He stabbed her twice again before being restrained by two male housemates.

"Let me go, I want to kill this bitch," he said.

He then surrendered himself to Dandenong police station, telling police he did not know why he stabbed Ms Freeman other than being "angry and drunk".

He didn't have the right to take a life, he told police.

Ms Freeman had died in physical pain and terror of a "magnitude which is difficult to imagine", Justice Taylor said.

"The reason you ended her life in such a manner is unfathomable.

"Your actions were brutal and utterly senseless."

Justice Taylor labelled the marriage as "perhaps of convenience".

Eustace, an Indian national, had met Ms Freeman in Melbourne while he was on a visitors' visa. He had unsuccessfully proposed to her on the day they met.

After their marriage, he was on a bridging

visa pending his application for a partner's visa.

Justice Taylor noted the victim impact statements from Ms Freeman's daughter, sister and ex-husband and three housemates.

Their lives were left in "permanent disquiet", Ms Taylor said.

"It's clear that Ms Freeman was a much loved and valued woman.

"By your brutal actions you betrayed her trust and expectation that ... violence, let alone fatal violence, would never be done.

"In simple terms, no woman should fear or suffer physical harm because her partner loses his temper."

Eustace had been of previously good character and a history of hard work as a mechanic and platform rigger, the court was told.

He'd since shown remorse with a contrite letter to Ms Freeman's family, organised a prayer group in prison and had good prospects of rehabilitation, Justice Taylor said.

Eustace's application for a partner's visa was rejected last August. He faces deportation to India after his prison term.

He was jailed for up to 25 years, with a nonparole period of 20 years. He had served 423 days in pre-sentence custody.

Holiday Inn tower to open in Dandenong

By Cam Lucadou-Wells An 11-storey “world-class” hotel has been announced to tower above Cheltenham Road, Dandenong by 2021.

Earmarked for 64 Cheltenham Road, the 160-room Holiday Inn & Suites Dandenong project was announced by entrepreneur Martyn Barnes and hotel chain IHG. It was described by the developer as catering for “growing business travel” to Dandenong.

The building will include two levels of office space, as well as retail shopping, all-day dining and bar-room, a gym, conference and meeting facilities.

IHG, which doesn’t use a star-rating system, has rated the hotel as “mainstream“ or “midscale“.

There is no confirmed project cost at this stage, a spokesperson said.

Barnes Capital managing director Martyn Barnes said the hotel would be the “new homeaway-from-home for the thriving business, industrial and public-sector community”.

“As the heart of Melbourne’s south-east region, some might say Dandenong has it all, but I would say it doesn’t have a great hotel yet.

“Holiday Inn Melbourne Dandenong will be an important component of the (State) Government’s Revitalising Central Dandenong project, and we’re so proud to support it.

IHG’s Australasia development senior director Abhijay Sandilya said Holiday Inn, as the world’s largest hotel brand, would attract guests from around the world to Dandenong.

According to a statement, the developer was attracted to Dandenong’s status as possi-

Get in touch with your inner wellbeing.

A concept drawing of Holiday Inn Dandenong, which is expected to open in 2021.

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A Lexus sedan stolen from a car yard has been found deliberately torched in Boyd Street, Dandenong.

The black car, which belonged to a Thomastown dealership, was discovered about 8.15am on Wednesday 20 March.

Police say an accelerant was used to ignite the car.

The offenders are unknown.

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

'Friend' stabbed in Palm Plaza play-fight A 41-year-old man has been stabbed after a 'play-fight' turned serious outside a restaurant in Palm Plaza, Dandenong.

The victim and his 20-year-old 'friend', both from Dandenong, had clashed in the McCrae Street mall about 6.10pm on Saturday 23 March.

A witness tried to separate the combatants but not before the victim was wounded under his arm and thigh.

He was conveyed to The Alfred hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The other man was charged and remanded in custody to face court at a later date.

Teen charged with Springvale robbery

bly Melbourne’s second city and one of Australia’s most significant industrial precincts.

The site is opposite where Greater Dandenong Council had proposed a boutique soccer stadium, which has been put on hold after a failed bid for an A-League team last year.

Greater Dandenong councillor Jim Memeti said it was a “huge boost in confidence” for Dandenong in the wake of the Team 11 bid.

It follows the Punt Hill, Quest and City Hill accommodation developments operating in central Dandenong.

Cr Memeti said the hotel would offer accommodation for overseas visitors and workers to large international businesses setting up in Dandenong.

“I was aware of half-a-dozen to a dozen hoteliers interested (during the bid).

“I thought they might have gone cold but obviously they still see the potential here.”

It is the third hotel signing in Victoria between IHG and Barnes Capital, following Holiday Inn Coburg and voco Yarra Valley.

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A teenager has been charged over the alleged robbery of a 30-year-old woman on Balmoral Avenue Springvale.

The woman had been on her way to work, walking to Springvale railway station about 6.25am on Thursday 21 March.

Approaching from behind, a male tried to snatch the handbag on her shoulder, Greater Dandenong CIU police say.

The victim fell backwards as she clung to her bag. She was allegedly dragged along the ground by her male attacker for up to 10 metres.

The male took her bag and fled in the back of a car, police say.

The victim reportedly suffered cuts and grazes to her hands, arms and knees.

After viewing nearby CCTV footage, police charged a 16-year-old boy from Dandenong North the next day.

He was remanded to appear at a children's court on a charge of robbery.

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By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A man in his 50s has been reportedly bashed with a hammer during an aggravated burglary in Francesco Drive, Dandenong North.

Two unknown male intruders fled on foot from the home after the attack about 2.25pm on Monday 25 March, Victoria Police say.

The victim was taken to The Alfred hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The attackers were described by the victim as Middle Eastern or Mediterranean appearance.

One of the men was said to be aged about 30 with short hair, the other was bearded.

Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.

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Monday, 1 April, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 3

NEWS

Spent butt sparks freeway grass fire

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A flung cigarette butt is believed to have ignited a Monash Freeway grass fire that severely delayed outbound peak-time traffic in Endeavour Hills on 27 March.

It took over an hour for five fire crews to extinguish the blaze that started about 5.20pm.

It spread from the freeway's edge, upwards through a bank of tussock grass towards a wooden sound barrier.

Senior Station Officer Kerry Phillips, of Hallam CFA, said the likely source was a lit cigarette butt thrown from a passing car.

"I can only suggest that's what happened.

No one is going to stop and lit a fire by the side of the freeway.

"If you look there, there were about 50 cigarette butts on that bank. And eventually one will hit the right spot."

Fire brigades are all too often called out to cigarette fires on the side of freeways and roads, Mr Phillips said.

The grass fire spread up the freeway embankment towards a wooden noise wall.

He urged motorists to report offenders on the EPA's Report Litter hotline, app or website.

"Drivers can be charged and fined quite a big sum of money."

He also reminded motorists to slow down to 40km/h as they pass fire trucks with lights on at roadside blazes.

To report littering, go to www.epa.vic.gov. au/get-involved/report-litter

Butts out of our creeks An award-winning campaign urging residents to 'bin their butts' is set to pound Greater Dandenong's pavement.

A cigarette-shaped character #msnobutts and her 'twin sister' from City of Monash will tour butt litter hotspots in Greater Dandenong on Wednesday 3 April, 5pm-7pm.

The locations include Buckingham Avenue, Springvale, Douglas Street, Noble Park and Dandenong Plaza.

The character also appears in short advertisements on the council's website and YouTube channel.

People are encouraged to take photos with #msnobutts, sharing the images on social media under the same hashtag.

It is part of a statewide Litter Hotspots Program to cut down on litter in local waterways.

Mayor Roz Blades said the campaign attracted widespread interest, winning a Keep Victoria Beautiful Sustainable City Award.

"Our waterways are particularly vulnerable to cigarette butt litter, which is why this campaign is so important."

The program had prevented an estimated 10,000 butts from landing in Melbourne waterways in the past 12 months.

Drivers ‘dudded’ on tolls as CityLink strikes gold mine

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

enue would come from CityLink motorists.

The remaining $10.8 billion would be raised from tolls in the West Gate Tunnel.

“Daniel Andrews’ dud deal will also impact on small and large businesses with greater freight costs that will be passed onto every Victorian consumer,” Mr Rich-Phillips said.

“Transurban profits are clearly more im-

portant to Daniel Andrews than the daily costs of living for Victorians.”

“If the Andrews Labor Government has any decency and respect for Victorians, they will immediately release all financial details behind this secret and misleading deal.”

The State Government was contacted for comment.

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Motorists in the South East will be carrying the can for an extra $37.3 billion in road tolls to pay for a tunnel project in Melbourne’s west, says the State Opposition.

Opposition roads spokesperson Gordon RichPhillips said the “dud deal” was a “gold mine” for

CityLink toll-road operator Transurban.

Under the State Government agreement, Transurban was granted a 10-year extension on tolls on CityLink until 2044-45 to fund the $6.7-billion West Gate Tunnel.

Mr Rich-Phillips seized on a Parliamentary Budget Office report into the West Gate Tunnel Project showed $26.5 billion of the tolls rev-

4 STAR JOURNAL

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Monday, 1 April, 2019

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

No free drinks for pokies

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong Council is set to lobby for the end of free drinks and other gambler inducements as part of stricter regulations in pokies venues.

On 25 March, the majority of councillors voted to make a submission to a State Government review of its responsible gambling codeof-conduct.

Cr Tim Dark abstented himself from the vote.

The council’s suggested reforms will include banning venue staff from ploys to increase players’ gambling, such as gifts and inducements like free drinks other than water.

The council will also press for mandatory

breaks and maximum daily time limits for gamblers.

Staff would also be required to monitor and assist people showing signs of “gambling harm” by banning them from the venue for 24 hours.

“Council is a huge supporter of this review and the need for reform in this space,” Mayor Roz Blades said.

“Continuing to advocate on this issue is one way we can continue to publically support vulnerable members of our community.”

Councillor Matthew Kirwan told of a pokie venue’s notes describing “coffees, drink shouts and toasties” being used to retain gamblers.

“They also suggested staff were being rewarded with vouchers when their venues hit betting targets,” Cr Kirwan said.

“Staff were urged to “do whatever you have to do to keep people in the room.

“This example along shows the need for a stronger code.”

Councillor Sean O’Reilly said the council’s position was “not ideological”.

“We’re seeking practical and reasonable increased speed limits on money coming out of problem gamblers’ pockets that could be better spent in family budgets.

“If there’s any community that should be putting it forward, it is our community - that is most affected and afflicted by problem gambling.”

The council’s residents are one of the hardest-hit by poker machine losses, pouring in $121 million in 2017-18.

The Greater Dandenong area loses the most

per adult (nearly $1000 a year each) on poker machines.

It has the second-highest number of machines (958) in greater Melbourne and yet is one of the most socio-economically disadvantaged.

According to a council report, for every dollar lost to pokie machines at local clubs in 2017-18, only three cents on average is returned to the community as donations, gifts and sponsorships, veterans support and volunteering expenses.

The council’s position is supported by the Alliance for Gambling Reform’s stance.

The alliance includes councils such as Greater Dandenong, organisations such as The Salvation Army and anti-gambling campaigner Tim Costello.

Work starts on central park Work has begun on a new community sports court with CCTV and lighting in central Dandenong.

Replacing the temporary Pop-Up Park near Dandenong railway station, the new multisport park is expected to open at the corner of Cadle and George streets by mid-2019.

It features a court that can host a variety of sports including basketball, netball and futsal.

The $650,000 project on Development Victoria land is being funded by the State Government ($550,000) and the City of Greater Dandenong ($100,000).

Youth Minister and Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said the park would benefit local young people, residents, visitors, businesses and the broader community.

“The original pop-up park was extremely

popular, and it is fantastic to be able to deliver a new multi-sport park in the heart of Dandenong.”

Greater Dandenong mayor Roz Blades said the council recognised the importance of a recreational facility for young people in the area.

It is part of the $290 million Revitalising Central Dandenong initiative, which dates back to 2006.

The Government expects the RCD project to attract more than $1.2 billion in private investment and create 5000 jobs.

Right: Russell Moore of ACE Construction, Gabrielle Williams, Roz Blades, Geoff Ward of Development Victoria and Jesse Williams of ACE Construction. 191973 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

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STAR JOURNAL 5

NEWS

Crestani speaks out on minutes

By Brendan Rees Casey Councillor Rosalie Crestani has hit back at accusations she was “appalled” by the multiple minutes of silence held during the council meeting for Christchurch massacre victims.

It comes after Cr Sam Aziz created a stir last week when he was accused by several people of trivialising a minute’s silence during a council meeting on Tuesday 19 March following the New Zealand shooting.

Cr Sam Aziz called for a minute’s silence to honour the lives of those lost in recent overseas terrorist attacks as well a further minute of silence “to actually honour the memory of those that we haven’t remembered and those that have got no one to remember them.”

However, Cr Crestani rejected claims she was “appalled” by Cr Aziz’s behaviour, saying “the multiple minute silences were unusual but drove multiple points home.”

“I wondered, do we observe a minute’s silence for every attack or mass loss of life that occurs overseas? Perhaps we should,” she said.

“So that we can remember just how blessed we are as a nation to have such a rare occurrence but also to show compassion for our fellow humanity.”

Cr Crestani also added she was upset when Sheikh Daud Dlongolo of Hallam Mosque was invited to conduct a prayer at the council

meeting following the Christchurch massacre saying she “simply did not” agree with it.

“We were there with compassion for fellow humanity who were killed in the mosques in New Zealand; however I prayed to my God and held my Bible up at one point, and asked Jesus to comfort the families of the victims of the attack in New Zealand, for justice and peace to prevail.”

Cr Aziz posted on his Facebook page saying: “I stand by what I did, and I hope I won’t have to do it again. As I have said before: All lives matter.”

“Apparently it’s madness to honour all who have died in violence, not just those who died in the New Zealand tragedy,” he posted.

Cr Rex Flannery said the minute silences took away the emphasis of what happened in New Zealand.

“I had no idea it was going to happen ... you would have to ask Councillor Aziz and (Mayor) Amanda Stapledon why they did it because it’s beyond me,” he said.

Adam Sadiqzai, a community leader and a proud Muslim said Cr Aziz deserved to be “called out” as he made a “mockery of everyone” who sat in the public gallery of the council meeting.

“My stand has got nothing to do with religion, absolutely nothing,” he said.

9 4 $

Gabrielle Williams, with Luke Donnellan, fires a shot.

Meeting on a level field

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Politicians and staffers pitted themselves against Doveton Special Soccer School for their annual friendly at Soccer 5s Dandenong South.

In an entertaining clash, the DSSS emerged triumphant 5-4 against a talented ALP side including local MPs and ministers Gabrielle Williams and Luke Donnellan, and former federal pollie Alan Griffin.

It was a chance for the school's players to build relationships with the MPs, said DSSS founder Juan Carlos Loyola.

Similarly the soccer school has a regular match with Victoria Police members.

"It's a way for our players to meet people.

They want to meet the community at different levels."

The DSSS has been running soccer training and games for players with intellectual disabilities for 26 years.

Its latest ambition is to tour China in their first international tournament in May. It is currently fundraising for the $2500-a-player trip.

Samson from the DSSS was adjudged best on field.

Mr Loyola, a former Australian head coach, is nearing his 70th birthday but has no plans of stepping down from the school.

"The idea is to make a small difference to these kids "It is to show the community that if you can give us a chance, they can be like you and me.

They can be a part of a life that we have every day.

"It is not just to learn how to kick a ball, but they're learning to be a good person."

To help or be part of the DSSS, call Juan on 0414 393 700 or soccercoach2@hotmail.com

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Pellicano name to live on

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A 21-hectare wooded oasis in Dandenong South's industrial estate is set to be named after the precinct's developer.

Despite several community objections, the Frank Pellicano Reserve will be the new name for National Reserve at 43-67 National Drive.

It was endorsed by Greater Dandenong councillors at a meeting on Monday 25 March.

The land was donated by the Pellicano family to Greater Dandenong Council during the establishment of the neighbouring M1 and M2 industrial parks and Remington Estate.

The reserve includes the most significant and extensive stand of river red gums in the region as well as endangered animals and rare

vegetation, according to a council report.

The name change was requested by family members in memory of the late grandfather, who died from brain cancer in 2015.

"Frank Pellicano was a well-respected person and businessman throughout Dandenong," a council report stated.

"In the area in which he was most active, he has left the legacy of how business development and a respect for nature and the environment can work together for future generations to both enjoy and benefit from economically."

Councillor Tim Dark said the land was developed largely because of the Pellicano family's vision.

The industrial area, once 160 hectares of

"swampland and cow paddocks", was the source of more than $3 million in council rates.

Cr Memeti said the Pellicano business started as humble tradies. Over decades, it continued to invest in Greater Dandenong projects such as Quest Apartments.

"It's just right to name this land after Frank Pellicano who has done so much as a migrant coming to this country."

Objectors each had a "similar theme", suggesting the reserve was better named after conservation volunteers such as Ian Kitchen and the late Stuart Marriner.

"We should not go down the path of naming public assets after people with enough money to pay for their naming rights," an objector stated.

Dissenting councillor Matthew Kirwan said the reserve's name should "first and foremost recognise those that contribute to the community the most".

"It sets a bad precedent for further renamings and ... is a demonstration of council being out of touch with community sentiment."

Cr Dark noted the similarity of the objections. Some of the objectors were linked to Cr Kirwan, including a Green state election candidate, he said.

Cr Kirwan later described the observation as a "cheap shot".

"Being a Greens candidate, an ALP candidate, a Liberal candidate doesn't make one any less legitimately a member of the community who can have a view on council issues."

Kinder cuts are not kind

Greater Dandenong mayor Roz Blades, centre, and councillors Angela Long and Matthew Kirwan at an I Love Kinder event at Dandenong West Kindergarten.

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Dandenong West Kindergarten has got on board a campaign against federal cuts to kinder funding.

The kinder staged an event promoting the multi-council campaign I Love Kinder on 21 March.

The campaign is supported by Greater Dandenong Council and other Victorian municipalities such as Wyndham, Casey, Hume, Monash, Whittlesea and Yarra Ranges.

It calls for the Federal Government to continue its funding of five hours a week of fouryear-old kinder for every child beyond 2019.

The State Government funds 10 hours a week.

STAR JOURNAL 7

LOOKING BACK

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

After the meeting Cr Melhem said he was "not very happy" with the response from the ministers, saying "They asked what was our priority in the submission and I said all of it."

100 years ago

50 years ago

20 years ago

3 April 1919 Repatriation Proposed Settlement in the Police Paddocks

1 April 1969

5 April 1999

Natural gas flow reaches Dandenong

Mayor outlines city's needs

Natural gas became a reality in Victoria yesterday when the first cusecs began flowing through the Dandenong terminal.

The gas is piped to Dandenong at very high pressure and has to be decompressed before it can be released. On April 14 the first homes in Victoria at Carrum, Chelsea and Mordialloc will be using the new gas. An artificial smell will be added at Dandenong to enable leaks to be detected. Natural gas is odourless. Hundreds of thousands of gas stoves and appliances are currently being converted to burn the new gas. The introduction of natural gas also promises big savings for consumers, who could save up to 21% a year.

Greater Dandenong council has called on the State Government to recognise its status as Melbourne's 'second city' and provide the necessary facilities and infrastructure. In his submission to a ministerial delegation on Monday, The Mayor councillor Naim Melhem said Greater Dandenong needed:

The Dandenong and Ferntree Gully shire councils, met with the Chief Commissioner of Police on Wednesday March 26 to urge the transferring of a portion of the Police Paddocks to the lands department for the settlement of soldiers in the district, retaining 100 acres around the reservoir for the public reserve and 300 acres in proximity to the stud depot homestead for police requirements. It was pointed out that at present, a considerable portion of the property was infested with noxious weeds and vermin, and was practically useless.

The chief commissioner promised to fully consider the matter and, if the reports furnished justified the request, then he would be pleased to have the wishes of the deputation acceded to.

•฀ A performing arts and entertainment centre similar to Geelong.

•฀ An upgrade of the arterial road network as delays to works on Westall Rd and Greens Rd has exacerbated existing traffic problems •฀ An intermodal freight exchange and airport for the south east region •฀ The retention of Waverly Park as an AFL Venue

5 years ago 7 April 2014 Plaza says it’s safe Dandenong Plaza has cut crime and is providing "a safe and secure family environment", centre manager Mark Tannahill says. His comments were in response to community fears about safety raised after a man armed with a syringe stole a woman's car from the shopping centre's car park about 1.30pm on 29 March.

Mr Tannahill said the management strove for the plaza and the surrounding community "to be a welcoming and safe environment at all times".

"This is why we are undertaking a number of initiatives to promote community harmony.

More welcome at Cobras

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Sandown Cobras All Abilities Football Club is a little heralded success story, making grand finals in each of the past three years.

But with the FIDA League season set to kick off on 4 April, the side is just short of the required 22 players.

Coach Doug West says the Edinburgh Reserve-based club is a sporting and social outlet for its male and female players with intellectual disabilities.

It's like a family, he says.

As the squad trains in late-afternoon sunshine, he points out how each player has kicked on at the club.

Last year, three players were selected for Victoria.

Mr West's grandson used to stay in his room all weekend before playing FIDA League.

Now he's a twice-selected state representative and basketball coach.

For Mr West, his passion has been to get kids outside playing sport over the past 50 years.

"There's a chance for them to do things and further themselves."

One principle of the club is to treat everyone as equals.

"We're very strict on discipline, to make sure everyone does what they're told.

"We want them to respect each other, as well as other players, umpires and supporters."

To play with the club, contact Mr West on 0407 837 667 or Hannah Sacks at hannahsacks@hotmail.com. Sponsors and volunteers are also welcome.

Right: Doug West, right, with the Sandown Cobras All Abilities football team. 191924 Picture: CAM LUCADOU-WELLS

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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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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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Woodlee Street’s woes

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong Council will launch a formal report into traffic bedlam plaguing Dandenong North Primary School.

Cr Matthew Kirwan, who raised the motion on 25 March, told of a rapid rise in students leading to increasingly unsafe congestion in surrounding streets, particularly Woodlee Street.

He reported cars parking on footpaths and in driveways, as well as speeding and erratic driving through the school drop-off and pickup time chaos.

In recent years, two young girls were struck by a car while walking to school and a resident Louise Ferguson was crushed between vehicles while trying to help manage traffic outside her home, Cr Kirwan said.

The report will look at the pros and cons as well as costs of measures to curtail speeding and improve safety and amenity during school peak times.

"Various options have been put forward as suggestions for improvement by residents

and the school namely part of Woodlee Street ... allowing only one-way traffic and a school crossing across Woodlee Street but there may be other, better options," Cr Kirwan said.

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

It would instead "compromise road safety, encourage higher traffic speeds and increase the likelihood of a serious accident".

As reported by Star News, during 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.

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 has told of her car being written off after being crashed into by a reckless driver, and another motorist being pushed off the road onto her nature strip.

She said another car careering through a

neighbour's fence and narrowly missing the resident's kids.

The Department of Education and Training recently told Star News that the issues were for Greater Dandenong Council to solve - despite suggestions that land at the former Cleeland Secondary College site could ease parking shortages.

The council report is due to be handed down in September.

"The Department has raised concerns about this issue with the Greater Dandenong Council who are responsible for street parking regulations and traffic management," a spokesperson said.

Louise Ferguson, whose pelvis was crushed between vehicles, during Woodlee Street's Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS chaos. 190894

Sky rail’s hits and misses leave some works incomplete

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Promised parts of the Noble Park level-crossings removal project remain incomplete, according to a Greater Dandenong Council review.

The report on 25 March stated that most of the works associated with the sky rail project over Heatherton, Corrigan and Chandler roads had been delivered by the State Government.

One of the in-progress works was the expansion of Noble Park Civic Space with new lawns, trees, shading, stage area and garden beds.

The Level Crossing Removal Project had advised that it was dependent on decommissioning and removing the area's electrical substation.

"Council's understanding is that the substation was to become redundant during February 2019, with decommissioning and demolition to follow shortly after that.

"That timeline has not eventuated and the decommissioning and demolition is now expected to occur in the next few months."

The State Government was still investigat-

ing the lease of land from Melbourne Racing Club and Sandown Greyhound Racing Club to create 500 extra car spaces near Sandown Park railway station.

The council is still negotiating with the Government over who bears responsibility for maintaining the open space and parks under the elevated rail.

There had been clear benefits such as a centralized bus stop area, a more attractive public transport hub and a north-south link road from Ian Street to Noble Park's CBD, the report stated.

Traffic flows at the three removed level crossing sites had vastly improved. Boom gates had previously stopped traffic for 30 minutes every peak-time hour.

The Government also contributed $3.8 million towards an all-abilities playground in Ross Reserve, as well as a sports pavilion and 'Tan' running track.

The report stated that there was a net gain of 700 planted trees to compensate for the loss of remnant river red gums, and a new shareduse path Djerring Trail.

Big disruptions across Melbourne from April 6-23.

Plan ahead to avoid long delays.

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, there will be works throughout April to deliver the Metro Tunnel. Impacted train lines across the South-Eastern suburbs include: Cranbourne, Pakenham & Frankston lines 6th to 12th and 15th to 18th April Buses between Flinders Street and Caulfield stations

Cranbourne & Pakenham lines 13th to 14th and 19th to 21st April Buses between Flinders Street and Westall stations

Frankston line 13th to 14th and 19th to 21st April Buses between Flinders Street and Moorabbin stations

Sandringham line 13th to 14th and 19th to 22nd April Buses between Flinders Street and Sandringham stations

Gippsland line 6th to 23rd April Coaches replace V/Line trains for the entire journey and free travel will be available on these services Find your Plan B travel option now at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

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NEWS

Grade 5 and 6 Dandenong West Primary students dance group members Uroj, Julie, Teya, Kaosar and Samayeh. 191758 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Maree McPhee, of Cardinia Trefoil Girl Guides, with Saara. 191758

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Shahbaaz with Ann from Bunnings Dandenong at the Cultural Diversity Week Festival. 191758 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Strength in cultural diversity brings community together Among the entertainers were Mark Tambo, who played didgeridoo and spoke powerfully on reconciliation, and the Bollydazzlers dance group.

About 25 service providers including the Dandenong-based Bunurong Health Services

The annual Cultural Diversity Week festival once again brought the Dandenong West community together on 22 March.

Hosted by the local primary school, more than 1000 flocked for free family-friendly activities, performances and affordable treats.

with an anti-smoking message, AMES, Red Cross, SES, Melbourne Victory and YMCA attended.

The school was brightly festooned by 'Flags of Peace' created by Dandenong West Primary students.

The school's community hub leader Vikki Noisette said it was a chance to celebrate the community's strength.

"It was an opportunity to work together to create an event that celebrates who we are."

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Looking towards the Dandenongs, this spacious village is only minutes from all services necessary to make life comfortable and enjoyable. shopping opportunities, medical facilities, transport, theatres, restaurants and the Dandenong Market are just a few of the fantastic nearby conveniences. Residents even have the chance to take a walk through the beautiful parkland with their pet and friends.

There is a variety of home sizes and designs to suit each individual lifestyle and tenure by strata title provides security of investment.

Additionally, the emergency on-call system gives residents total peace of mind. Visitors can feel the community spirit and sense of belonging at Valley Village Mews, with special events, including a fundraiser for cancer research, inviting residents to collect five cent pieces for the village’s Biggest Morning Tea held in May. Residents can also participate in fashion parades, luncheons and carpet bowls, bingo, snooker, line dancing exercises and walking groups. Also available at the Village is a hairdressing salon and courtesy bus for shopping or medical appointments.

Valley Village Mews is QIP Accredited.

To inspect the units that are available for sale, call Cynthia on 9793 3354 for an appointment For more information, email villagemews@iinet.net.au or visit www.valleyvillagemews.com.au. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Film festival open shortly Entries are open for Greater Dandenong's annual short film festival.

Short Cuts Film Festival last year attracted nearly 2000 entries from around the world, including Nepal, Iran, Romania and Latvia.

It's also an opportunity for locals to tell the story.

Greater Dandenong mayor Roz Blades said the festival provided a fantastic opportunity to unearth new talent.

"The City of Greater Dandenong is gaining a strong reputation amongst film makers both as a film location and a place for emerging filmmakers to have their work celebrated."

The categories are Open for professional filmmakers, Emerging for current or recent film graduates and Community/Student for primary and secondary students and people without professional filmmaking training.

More than $5000 in cash prizes are on offer.

This year's festival will be curated by Richard Moore. It will screen at Drum Theatre on Saturday 5 October.

Shorter Cuts 2019, featuring short films by young filmmakers, will also screen at Drum Theatre on Sunday 6 October.

Submissions close on 2 July.

Details: shortcutsfilmfestival.com.au

Richard Moore returns as the Short Cuts Film Festival curator. 181047 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

School scores benchmark recycled gift A playground bench of recycled plastic is the latest gift bestowed by a local Greek yoghurt manufacturer to Dandenong South Primary School.

Chobani donated the sky-blue seat, which is made from plastic that isn't recyclable by traditional means.

As part of the REDCycle program, customers dropped off plastic into red bins at supermarkets. It is then transformed into outdoor furntiture by Victorian manufacturer Replas.

Chobani Australia is part of the REDCycle program as a means of cutting down on its packaging going to landfill.

More than 352,000 of its 'pouches' - about one tonne of packaging - have been returned as part of the program.

"Chobani pouches are made of soft plastic that cannot be collected through kerbside recycling," Chobani sustainability manager Sandy Gain said.

"Joining the REDCycle program gives fans a solution to recycle pouches, while giving us a way to give back to the local community."

Chobani Australia managing director Peter Meek said the bench sent a message of sustainability to the students.

"It shows kids that the lifecycle of Chobani products doesn't end after the yogurt's gone.

"With the REDCycle partnership, there's a tangible outcome that kids can see and learn from."

Chobani has also been partners in a breakfast club program at Dandenong South Primary since 2014.

The club provides daily nutritious breakfasts to students, who would otherwise miss out on a healthy start to the day.

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra.

12415407-LN15-19

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Peter Meek and Dandenong South Primary students Milad, Taua, Roseann and Asma with the recycled bench. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

property

CRISP, COOL AND CONTEMPORARY PAGE 18 Monday, 1 april, 2019 5 February, 2018

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Lot 2 - 115 Acres (46ha) ofers a 3 bedroom B/V home, 2 living areas, 2 bathrooms, outdoor living area’s, multiple sheds, hay shed and central laneway to 10 paddocks with mains water.

Buy one lot or buy both.

Shop 2, 48 Temple Street, Heyfield - $275,000 + SAV 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.

For all information or to book an inspection contact:

Land Sales

SHANE HOWARD P. 0488 972 727 E. shane@kaikura.com.au

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

4 Temple Street, Heyfield, 3858 www.gippslandrealestate.com

12412482-MB10-19

Leasehold for Sale - Moroney’s Alpine Meats

Close Date is 24th April 2019 at 5pm

5148 3007

12415261-DJ15-19

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STAR REAL ESTATE

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Monday, 1 April, 2019

com.au

realestate.starcommunity.com.au

HOME FOCUS

DUAL RESIDENCY CIRCA 1890s THIS magnificent example of an 1890s Victorian retail building has been extensively and meticulously renovated by the vendors.

They have created amazing dual studio apartments, retaining many of the original features of the buildings, including 10ft high ceilings with original brickwork and timbers.

The property has been re-zoned to residential and is ideally presented as either a full-time residence, and/or as a bed and breakfast enterprise.

The residence is presented with 3 bedrooms, 2 full kitchens and 2 magnificent bathrooms with plenty of storage throughout.

There is ample secure car parking behind, including space for a caravan or boat.

Additionally, the property features a 10mt x 5.6mt workshop, yet to be renovated.

Centrally located within Heyfield, the property is at the gateway to the Gippsland High Country, Lake Glenmaggie and the many wilderness parks.

An inspection of the property is mandatory to feel and experience the relaxing and intimate atmosphere of this redesigned residential property. ●

HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 14 MacFarlane Street, HEYFIELD, VIC 3858 Description: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms Price: On application Contact: David Wadey 0429 483 007, GIPPSLAND REAL ESTATE

SALES & RENTALS

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

Dandenong

Cranbourne North

33 woodlee street

IDEAL DOWNSIZER!

If you are looking to downsize or just starting out, don’t miss this home! Located within walking distance to Dandenong Hospital, Dandenong High School. Oasis Sporting Complex and Pool, Cafes and bus stop, it offers two large bedrooms with built in robes, formal lounge, meals area in modern timber kitchen featuring gas cooker, lots of cupboard space and tiled flooring. Other conveniences include gas hot water service, gas heating, air conditioning, separate laundry, separate toilet, paved rear yard, single carport and generous front garden. QUIET & CONVENIENT LOCATION!

67 rossiter retreat

PACK YOUR BAGS - YOU’RE MOVING IN!

This almost new four bedroom home is ready for the home buyer looking for immediate occupation as it is now Vacant. There are two living areas so there is space for all the family. The sitting room is close to the master bedroom and is set away from the kids.

The kitchen overlooks the informal living area and is bound to be the hub of activity. The family room opens out on to the alfresco area which in turn opens out to a rear for the kids or dog. A double garage with direct access, ducted heating and split system air conditioning complete the package! CLOSE TO SHOPS & PARKS!

executor’s auction: saturday, 6th april, 2019 @ 11:00am (if not sold prior) oPen: thurs 4:00pm to 4:20pm & sat 10:30am to 11:00am

For sale: $620,000 to $640,000 oPen: thurs 5:20pm to 5:40pm & sat 2:00pm to 2:20pm

Dandenong Central

Dandenong North

46 Power street

1,114m2 OF PRIME LAND!

Options abound – what would you do? One choice could be to do substantial renovations to the huge house and bring it back to a magnificent family home in the heart of Dandenong’s best residential areas.

Or, would you choose to demolish what’s there and re-develop into a fantastic town house development (STCA)? This massive block is situated on the iconic ‘red brick road’ and close to St John’s College, Primary Schools, Plaza, Market and so much more! Blocks this size are a rarity so look to secure your future today! THE CHOICE IS YOURS!

For sale: $1,075,000 to $1,180,000 oPen: wed 4:00pm to 4:20pm & sat 12:20pm to 12:40pm

Daryl Rayner Director 0411 537 820

realestate.starcommunity.com.au

Tony Rachele Director

21a oakwood avenue

AFFORDABLE LIVING - CLOSE TO EVERYTHING!

This two bedroom home is set on an easy care block close to shops, schools and transport.

The long private drive has a carport plus space for additional car parking. The home has a large, open plan with raised lounge area which is overlooked by the kitchen and meals area. The kitchen has gas hot plates and electric wall oven. There is gas heating and an air conditioner and both bedrooms have built in robes. A private rear yard has space for a garden and for the pet to run around and there is a shed for storage. AVAILABLE WITH TENANT OR VACANT POSSESSION!

For sale: $365,000 to $390,000 oPen: tues 4:20pm to 4:40pm & sat 1:00pm to 1:20pm

Mick Whelan Sales Manager 0416 003 505

John Ratnam Sales Consultant 0414 556 517

com.au

9791 5922

mclennanrealestate.com.au

Monday, 1 April, 2019

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STAR REAL ESTATE

19

W E ' V E S AV E D T H E B E S T F O R L A S T

WE’LL MATCH YOUR $10K FIRST HOME OWNERS GRANT* *Terms and conditions apply

Artist Impression

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p££ĺëïëïĺóôìĺìïðĺĖ yarramanvillage.com.au

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STAR REAL ESTATE

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Monday, 1 April, 2019

com.au

realestate.starcommunity.com.au

ENTERTAINMENT

WHAT’S ON Tote bag making Join a two-hour childrens workshop with creative facilitator Miranda Sims and exhibiting contemporary artist Zee Mazloum to create your very own tote bag.

All equipment supplied. The $10 per person cost includes taking home your completed bag on the day.

This event is part of the 2019 SHE Exhibition at Walker Street Gallery coinciding with International Women's Day. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Bookings essential.

Saturday 6 April 11am-1pm at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, corner of Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong.

Bookings: 8571 1666

· 500 card game workshop

Dinner with a VIEW

Five Hundred is a popular card game in which the object is to make bids and take tricks. Learn how to win by being the first player to score 500, and make new friends.

Thursday 4 April 1.30-2.30pm at The Open Door, 110 Ann Street, Dandenong. A gold coin donation is welcome.

Bookings: Trish or Jo on 9791 8664.

Foster carer Joan Graham is guest speaker at the upcoming Dandenong Evening VIEW Club dinner. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education for Women and the club supports the SMITH Family's Learning for Life Program.

New members and guests are always welcome.

Tuesday, 2 April 7pm at Dandenong RSL, 44-50 Clow Street. Bookings essential: 9795 1222.

·

Mehran and Muswir meet the Easter Bunny at Dandenong Plaza. 191639 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Mother's Day choral concert

Hop on in to Easter fun Dinosaurs and the Easter Bunny are set to hop into a Dandenong shopping centre's school holiday childrens program.

Armada Dandenong Plaza will hold free dinosaur themed activities for holiday week one followed by Easter craft activities for the second week.

during business hours.

Neilson Partners

section of Network Classifieds.

To Let

CARAVAN PARK ACCOMMODATION

V

Australian Linehaul Services requires Exp. Interstate Drivers: MELB, SYD, BNE. Full Time, Exc. pay.

Must have: exp. with Road Ranger gearbox, min 5 yrs driving exp, checkable references.

Apply on-site: rear 83 Bangholme Road, Dandenong or email: operations@australianlinehaulservices.com.au

G5855585AA-dc11Mar

NO LEASE ★

Ph 9546 9587 Caravan & Cabin Park

Employment

NEED

Dance for all ages The Aussie Rhythm & Jazz Association presents a music and dance event with the Matrix dance band. All ages are welcome to enjoy an evening of rock and roll, reggae, pop, jazz, Latin and waltzes. Food on sale. Dress code is smart casual, BYO drinks and dancing shoes.

18 May at Keysborough Seniors Club, 352 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough. $15 members, $20 non-members, $10 children 6-12 years. Details: Brian David, 8759 0747 or 0421 983 862, or Lew Geer on 9558 1898 or 0437 950 550.

·

NEW STAFF?

V

Seeking a reliable Driver for early mornings, MR/ HR license essential.

Will train successful applicant Apply in person between 10am & 2pm Monday to Friday.

1 Learmonth Rd Carrum (03) 9772 7011

Positions Vacant

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

Call us on

1300 654 910 or apply online at

www.fermax.com.au

AM/PM SHIFT LABOURERS

12386920-RA19-18

Gathercole’s The Meat People

V

Positions Vacant

V

Positions Vacant

Must be physically fit, some heavy lifting required.

Apply in person between 10am & 2pm Monday to Friday.

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

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

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

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

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

1 Learmonth Rd Carrum

USED CAR SALES POSITION

Full time Position, attractive salary and commission for self driven and motivated person to join our commercial and 4x4 dealership in Pakenham.

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

Call Janine on 5940 5583 or send resume to andrew@ southeastcommercials.com.au

Send your application letter and resume to

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

Cabinet Maker Apprenticeship

Fulton Hogan are currently looking for people experienced in Sewer and Water Construction for the following positions:

EXCAVATOR OPERATOR (Sewer) PIPELAYER (Sewer) CSE/SEWER MAINTENANCE & TESTING LABOURER

No factory work - All onsite Own tools & white card required 2nd, 3rd & 4th years considered Contact: Steve - 0437 173 334

Driver/Delivery Person Office supplies Busi ess i Da de o g, seeki g a deli er dri er for after oo ork. to hours per da . da s a eek.

Phone

Please note that we only consider applications from skilled applicants with South East Water experience in new land development water/sewer reticulation & sewer outfall construction.

Please send Resume and cover letter to:

PO Box 690 Dandenong VIC 3175 or pipelines.vic@fultonhogan.com.au

Motoring V

Motor Vehicles

Find it in the

Need cash?

Get 10% Discount Use code: EMPDISC

Fill your position online ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX 24 STAR JOURNAL

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Monday, 1 April, 2019

Connecting people & communities

12408348-SN51-18

12400545-LB38-19

·

12380710-RA10-18

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

Positions Vacant

Positions Vacant

DRIVER / MEAT LUMPER Gathercole’s The Meat People

INTERSTATE B-DOUBLE DRIVERS

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

PERMANENT Singles Cabin - Bed Sitter (incl Kitchen) Caravans (ensuite) Caravans (no ensuite) Quiet secure park Close all facilities

Positions Vacant

LOOKING FOR A NEW CHALLENGE? WANT TO WORK LOCALLY?

Employment

V

New volunteers are welcome at The Bridge disability service in Cranbourne, Berwick, Narre Warren and Dandenong. They support staff and adult participants in fun activities one day a week or fortnight.

Details: Margaret, 8710 8520 or MCampion @thebridgeinc.org.au.

Sell it local

12412252-DJ09-19

9705 4888

firstnational COMMERCIAL

To arrange an inspection phone

12405999-LB48-18

We Offer:

9 Modern clean facility - Units from 4sqm to 33sqm 9 Convenient access - Your own lock and key 9 Security gated entry - 24hr video surveillance

Office Hours Mon-Sat 8am-6pm.

Sunday 10am-4pm 870 Princes Highway, Springvale

·

12414933-CG14-19

Enterprise Avenue Berwick

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This family friendly event is a chance to explore all the natural wonders of Dandenong Creek.

There will be fishing, guided tours, live animal displays and indigenous dancing.

Thursday 11 April 11am-2pm at Tirhatuan Park, Kriegal Way Dandenong North.

12414617-CG13-19

V

12414987-SN14-19

Storage

★ NO BOND

Discover Dandenong Creek

Volunteers needed

Employment

BERWICK SELF STORAGE UNITS

V

·

Some of the first-week highlights include fossil making, a dinosaur dig, prehistoric rock painting and a reptile show.

The second week includes an Easter Bunny ear craft workshop, cupcake decorating and an Easter Egg hunt.

Details: armadadandenongplaza.com.au

Real Estate V

Voices of Casey and Play it Forward choirs present Songs My Mother Taught Me - a trip down memory lane, with great songs from the 20th century. Conducted by Dr Jonathon Welch AM and accompanied by Jodie Lockyer. Includes afternoon tea.

Saturday May 11 3pm at The Amazing Grace, 150-156 South Gippsland Highway Cranbourne. $30 adult/ $25 concession/ $20 under-18s / $85 family. Bookings: Paulien 0412 741 195 or maritimes.1@hotmail.com

·

Trades & Services HOLDEN Co odore VY E ecuti e, , auto, , k s, e t res, VGC, reg u til / 9, UXJ.$ , . Call 9 .

section of Network Classifieds.

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Glory for powerful Bucks

By Nick Creely They did it the hard way.

But they did it the Buckley way.

Buckley Ridges knocked off the powerful Springvale South in a Dandenong District Turf 1 grand final for the ages last weekend, 23 and 24 March, in an epic that went down to the very final moments where light was fading and exhaustion was at a high.

In a premiership that no one from the little powerhouse out of Park Oval will forget in a hurry, the Bucks endured so many twists and turns of momentum before Ben Watson's safe hands brought glory and a flurry of supporters streaming onto Carroll Reserve with an almost deafening roar.

But that moment, which will be etched into Buckley folklore forever, was brought about by many defining moments, and day one saw the first of these many defining hands.

Wild early weather on the first day meant that the 11am start time would need to be pushed back, and after the clouds cleared and the sun finally made its way out, captain David White wasted little time in winning the toss and electing to bat on a surface that from a glance looked a batting paradise.

In a tense start to the day, the Bloods struck early, with the ever dangerous champion that is Daniel Watson departing at the hands of lightning quick Matt Wetering (1/40).

But stunningly, that would be the very last time Craig Slocombe's side would enjoy a wicket, they were simply blown away by firstly the discipline of the Bucks, and then finally the aggression of their superstar captain.

Tempering his usually flamboyant style, White and club champion Paul Rudd came together and just built the innings, it was nothing fancy, just sensible grand final batting.

White slowly worked into his natural game, and beginning to show more signs of aggression, the superstar captain-coach eventually pushed a single to reach an excellent 111-ball half-century, while Rudd remained steady, almost impenetrable in defence.

While the Bloods have been serviced superbly by their group of excellent slow bowlers, the Bucks remained firm to get to 1/101 at tea, with White fully set on 55 and ready to launch while Rudd - channelling his inner Cheteshwar Pujara - was beginning to frustrate the Bloods with an incredible 38 off 170 balls.

The former South African A batsman, as anticipated, lifted his intensity after the break, launching a fourth six of the innings just shortly after tea, racing to 82 just 15 minutes after the resumption of play, clearly looking to get things moving.

Expansive as he is brilliant, White moved into the 90s with some truly glorious stroke play simply wowing the crowd, and fittingly, reached his tremendous century - his sixth in 16 innings in the DDCA - in the same over as Rudd reached arguably the most vital halfcentury of his stellar career.

It began to become a worry for Slocombe's side as the Bucks just easily manipulated the fields in the latter stages of the days, and a simply stunning final over of the day from White was must watch cricket.

Surging past 150, White creamed two sixes off the first two balls as the Bucks reached a formidable 1/238 at stumps, with 10 overs still to bat on day two, while Rudd, batting through the day in an incredible knock of determination and grit, remained on 73.

With ball in hand on a warm day two with a strong breeze, Craig Slocombe looked to hold off the Bucks' surge, but stood little chance to a final flurry of boundaries.

Rudd's epic came to an end for 93 off 73 balls after selflessly looking to find the boundary every ball, not quite clearing Michael Vandort on the fence to give the Bloods a second wicket. It also ended a 261-run partnership, a clear grand final record, in the process.

It took two run-outs in a row to spark the interest of the Bloods' crowd, with Ben Watson falling short of his ground for eight before White - on 178 and eyeing a double hundred - was unluckily run out on the non-strikers end after the bowl ricocheted off the foot of Slocombe.

It forced an end to one of the more sublime knocks seen in the DDCA history. White, who dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Buckley Ridges, Dandenong District Turf 1 premiers of 2018/19. 191688 also carved 155 runs in the prelim a week earlier against Hallam Kalora Park, finished his freakish season for the Bucks with 1252 runs at 125.2. Let that sink in.

Despite the quick wickets, the Bucks were well served by Troy Aust (28 off 14), who helped his side to 6/326 off the allotted 90 overs with a late cameo.

But one of the familiar adages reverberating across the ground was to 'not discount these Bloods'. It couldn't have been truer.

Starting superbly in their monster chase, it was obvious from the outset that gun opener Nathan King was in an ominous mood.

Playing some cracking shots, particularly square and lofted down the ground, King's brilliant knock was by no means chanceless, but it was breathtaking.

The Bloods looked frighteningly comfortable on a pitch offering nothing for the Bucks' quicks, and at lunch, going at a nice rate, they were 0/63, with King flaying the ball to all parts and showing a willingness to throw his hands at everything, while fellow opener Michael Vandort was rock-solid, and sweating on anything on his pads.

But, after the break things got moving even quicker. A monster six that almost took out the sightscreen at the Box Street end rattled King along to 71, and just after the drinks break, brought up a memorable century with a single, much to the delight of the supporters.

Playing a supporting role perfectly, Vandort just ticked the score along with some clever cricket shots into the gaps, and eventually crossed a brilliant half-century.

Things were looking even more ominous when King lofted arguably the shot of the game - an exquisite lofted cover drive for six to lift the Bloods to 0/164 closing in on tea.

But an unbelievable moment, a second of misfortune for the Bloods, King was run-out in an identical fashion to White for 134, ending his sublime knock by throwing his head back in shock after he was caught short while at the non-strikers end.

It brought the six-time Wookey Medal winner Steve Spoljaric to the crease, who survived an extremely close LBW shout on the final ball before tea, with the Bloods going into the final break in a commanding position at 1/184,

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Wes Nicholas sends one down during a match turning spell for Buckley Ridges late on day two. 191688 leaving them almost 45 overs to race down 143 runs with nine wickets in hand.

Almost immediately after tea, the Bucks finally got some reward, with Jurgen Andersen (3/105) trapping Spoljaric for a duck in another defining moment in the match, and could have very nearly snared Vandort for 71 had it not been for a dropped catch in slip not long after.

With something needed to happen for the Bucks to get right back into contention, there was another defining moment, and it came in the form of one of their unheralded stars - left arm spinner Wes Nicholas.

Many called on him throughout the day to be brought on after it looked like the Bloods would run away with a seamless victory, and he was sublime. Taking 4/38 late in the day in some of the most critical moments of the match, all of his mountains of experience was evident.

Nicholas held onto a chance off his own

bowling to remove Jack Sketcher for just one, and when Matt Goodwright stretched at gully to take a brilliant catch to remove Craig Slocombe for just seven, the Bloods had slumped to 4/221, and it was game on.

Vandort continued to look a class above, playing his shots and starting to gel with Malinga Bandara, but one of the more extraordinary pieces of fielding brought about his undoing for a 214-ball 90.

Daniel Watson (1/33) - in what loomed as a vital spell to try and pry out the left hander - stuck out his right hand and plucked an incredible caught-and-bowled off his own bowling, after Vandort creamed one straight, but in the air. The emotion on his face, and the noise of the crowd said it all, the Bucks were pressing hard.

Bandara (46) all of a sudden loomed as the man to take the game away, but Andersen - in a Monday, 1 April, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 25

SPORT

Malinga Bandara fought hard for Springvale South. 191688

Ben Watson roars with excitement after taking the final catch of the grand final. 191688

final spell that was full of heart - knocked over Matt Wetering with a lethal yorker, bringing the Bloods to 6/272, and needing 55 from 74 balls.

While Bandara continued to tick over the scoreboard, Nicholas was in the midst of one of the great spells, bowling with immense control and setting up Tim Ford (10) for his eventual dismissal, trapping him plumb in front to bring the Bloods to 7/289.

Looking to get things moving with 27 required off 30 to win, Nicholas forced Jarrod Armitage into a false stroke, with White taking a catch at cover to make the equation simple enough: 27 needed off 29, with two wickets in hand.

With tension in the air, and with no foreseeable insight into who would walk away victors, a stunning catch at cover from Matt Goodwright had the Bucks in the box seat, removing keeper Liam Hamilton (9) after he loomed dangerous with a boundary only moments before.

Coming out injured, Bloods spinner Jarryd Straker was the last man to the crease, but his services weren't needed as Nicholas lumbered into the wicket on the first ball of the 89th over, with 12 needed off 12 balls.

At first glance, Bandara looked to have cleared the long-on boundary for a glorious six after taking it on, but it just held and there

was pin drop, and an eventual catch taken on the boundary by Watson. That was it, Buckley Ridges were 2018/19 DDCA Turf 1 premiers.

They did have to do it the hard way after losing its first semi-final to Springvale South before crawling over the line a week later in a preliminary final - it takes tremendous mental strength to overcome that and deliver in the big moments.

The premiership is the first Turf 1 flag that the club has won since 2012/13, with Suren Ekanayake, Daniel Watson, Paul Rudd, Matthew Goodwright, Ben Watson and Wes Nicholas all picking up their third Turf 1 flags.

Players swarm onto the field after Buckley Ridges claimed a memoerable flag. 191688

Buckley Ridges champ Daniel Watson is an excited man after snaring an incredible catch off his own bowling. 191688

Buckley Ridges - 2018/19 Turf 1 Premiers Daniel Watson Paul Rudd David White (capt) Ben Watson Greg Todd Troy Aust (wk) Suren Ekanayake Rob Peat Wes Nicholas Matt Goodwright Jurgen Andersen

FREE 25 POINT SERVICE

MAJOR SERVICE & TUNE-UP

99

$ 99** •฀Engine฀oil฀change฀5฀Ltr • Oil filter change • Inspect Spark Plugs •฀Oil฀ilter฀change • New contact points •฀Inspect฀Spark฀Plugs • New wiper blades • Check hoses and clamps •฀New฀contact฀points • Pressure test cooling system • Check & adjust all fan belts •฀New฀wiper฀blades • Check PVC Valves •฀Check฀hoses฀and฀clamps • Inspect battery • Inspect charging system •฀Pressure฀test฀cooling฀system • Check clutch operation •฀Check฀&฀adjust฀all฀fan฀belts • Full mechanical & electrical report •฀Check฀PVC฀Valves •฀Inspect฀battery •฀Inspect฀charging฀system •฀Check฀clutch฀operation •฀Full฀mechanical฀&฀electrical฀report

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

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

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incInc GST GST

INCLUDING: INCLUDING: • Engine oil change 5 Ltr

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

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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

A Noble century marked There's no doubt that Noble Park Football Club has been a staple of the local community for a very long time. The sheer length of that time may surprise some as last weekend the Bulls celebrated their 100th anniversary with a special evening for all involved.

With ex-players, current players, supporters of all ages and local community members enjoying the night, it was an opportunity for people to come together and catch-up.

Noble Park president Grant Connolly spoke about the night and the how great it was for people of different eras to come together.

"The night was spectacular, with over 400 people there," Connolly said.

"We had a few interviews with ex-players scattered from guys from the 50s, 60s, 80s and guys from the more recent 10 or 15 years.

"The highlight of night was actually getting together and catching up with people who hadn't seen each other in a very long time - people were saying we should do this every couple of years, instead of waiting every 100 years!"

Former players sharing their experiences with current players was another moment to savour and really brought home what it's all about to be a part of a football club and the Noble Park Football Club certainly has a proud history.

"We were super keen to have the presentday players there to understand and see the history unfold in front of them on the night," Connolly said.

"To see the older guys get up and talk about what they went through and their experiences with the club, it really hit home to them that the club has been around for 100 years.

"You turn up one year and you don't really think about the last 99 years, but it's real and it's there and it was absolutely there on the night.

"They get the opportunity now to represent the club in its 100th year, so that should enormous value for them too."

Just like anywhere in the world, Noble Park has changed enormously over the past 100 years and Connolly is proud of the way the club has evolved over that time and especially in more recent years.

"Just the people that are involved with the club now, compared to even 15-20 years ago it's a very multi-cultural area with a real crosssection in backgrounds," he said.

"What we're really proud of is that we've catered for everyone and that's what we're about - we're a community footy club just trying to give everyone an opportunity to play sport."

Noble Park kicks off its 100th season at home against Doncaster on Saturday in what promises to be another great day for the club.

Club Noble directors Barry Moylan, Barry Bradshaw, Grant Connolly (NPFC president) and Craig Ortland.

MCs of the night Graeme Marchant and Daryl Pitman.

Pictures: SUPPLIED

By Hayley Wildes

Current Noble Park FC players Nic Pereria, Kyle Martin, Kevin Kean and Dean Jones.

Noble Park FC secretary Tracey Walden.

Councillors for Paperbark; Sophie Tran, Tim Dark and Roz Blades (mayor).

Speed Star is on Campini’s radar - from the west Talented Western Australian sprinter Campini has sights set on Speed Star.

His trainer Paul Stuart said on Sky Sports Radio's Going Greyhounds that the matchrace event may be Campini's next assignment.

"We'll look to go to Melbourne for the Speed Star. He is one who'll be on the plane soon and chasing some of the bigger races," revealed Stuart.

He finished fourth in the Perth Cup on Saturday 23 March after coming from last in one of the better editions the race seen in recent years.

"His run on (the) night was massive. When he finds a way to win he does it really well, but he can also find a way to get beaten."

Campini has had all of his 15 career starts at his home track of Cannington. He's notched up nine wins headed by a hot 29.43 effort in February - less than two tenths of a second outside of Quick Jagger's 29.29 track record.

Earlier this year Campini's team offered a match race to connections of last year's National Sprint Champion, West On Augie, however it was declined.

Speed Star is greyhound racing's most exciting format with Australia's fastest chasers converging for an entire program of match racing. It will be held on Sunday 5 May and will see 40 greyhounds to contest 20 match races with $190,000 in prize money to be won.

Southern Ripple is currently at the top of the Speed Star 515m standings, while Deliver and Dyna Chancer head the 595m and 715m respectively.

Alfieri (SA), Red Rock (SA) and Rockstar Prince (NSW) trialed on Thursday night between races in preparation for Thursday's Launching Pad heats with their times to be eligible for the Speed Star. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Paul Stuart, pictured here with Campini after a win last December.

Monday, 1 April, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 27