Dandenong Star Journal - 12th November 2019

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It’s over for the indoors

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Cream of the crop Austin Ferris, 4, had a Jersey calf Westella David Narcissus on a tight rein at the Dandenong Show on 9 November. The calf had travelled from the Gippsland town of Athlone.

For more pictures, see pages 12-13.

Picture: ROB CAREW

Fearless pastor 12428591-FA41-19

Reverend Berlin Guerrero has been kidnapped, tortured and tried for a baseless murder case.

So the courageous new pastor at Dandenong's Uniting Church - who fled from the Philippines on a tourist visa - is not afraid to be outspoken.

Least of all, against what he says is Australia's "inhuman" policy on others who have sought safety on these shores.

"It's become so restrictive, so inhuman. It basically makes it very hard to the point that it

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criminalises asylum seeking.

"It paints refugees as people who are not easily trusted and not to be welcomed."

Mr Guerrero says the Government was "reneging its responsibility" with its cuts to the Status Resolution Support Services welfare payments to asylum seekers in the community.

"The Government is saying let the church and not-for-profit groups take care of them."

In 2008, the then-United Church of Christ minister was abducted and tortured in a "safehouse" by naval intelligence security forces in

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his Filipino homeland.

He was remanded in prison for 15 months awaiting trial on trumped-up murder charges.

His true crime was criticising human rights under the then-Philippines Government led

by Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, he says.

Fortunately the case was dismissed by the judiciary.

After his release, Mr Guerrero still received death threats on his phone. He had no choice but to escape.

"It was something that I didn't plan as I

went into the ministry," he says.

"I was very vocal and active on the grave human rights abuses by the Arroyo Government at that time.

"And I was one of those arrested."

Despite having the backing of the Uniting Church synod in Australia, it was still an agonising three-year wait for a visa.

His religious worker visa was refused because he had been offered a part time job by the synod, not a full-time position.

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By Cam Lucadou-Wells

NEWS

Time to act on aged care

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A damning Royal Commission interim report on aged care is of no surprise to Greater Dandenong 'living treasure' Merle Mitchell.

The Springvale community trailblazer welcomed the "awesome" findings that echoed her concerns since moving to Waverley Valley Aged Care in 2016.

Ms Mitchell said aged care homes needed more staff - and more staff with experience and better training and pay.

There should be more registered nurses rather than lightly-trained 'patient care attendants', she said.

"Do you know the patient care attendants do a six-week course and then they're said to be fully trained?"

"That's just absurd - and not many know that."

Another priority was better food, which could be provided at "not great expense".

Ms Mitchell said the Gross Domestic Product spend of 1.1 per cent on aged care lagged behind other developed countries.

"Australia is right at the bottom of developed countries in the world."

But then there's also the attitude - the lack of empathy that permeated at her home.

Merle Mitchell says Australians needs to "get behind" a damning report on aged care. 126005 Picture: GARY SISSONS

"Empathy is what we need.

"Not a 'how are you feeling today' and then turning on your heel and walk out the door before you even respond."

In the interim report, Commissioner

Six are running for mayor

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A 'Melbourne Cup' field of candidates are lobbying to be Greater Dandenong's next mayor.

Ahead of the mayoral election on 14 November, up to six councillors are lobbying for their colleagues' votes.

The field includes recent mayors Jim Memeti (2016-'17) and Youhorn Chea (2017-'18).

The other possible candidates are Sean O'Reilly, Maria Sampey, Loi Truong and firstyear councillor Sophie Tan. Their campaigns are complicated by the announcement of a new Paperbark Ward councillor on 11 November.

The countback election is being staged to replace recently-resigned mayor Roz Blades.

Cr O'Reilly said mayoral candidates were lining up to lead during the "historic" opening of the $50m Springvale library and community precinct next year.

"The mayor, as chair and spokesperson of council, should be out in the community, listening intently to community concerns," the former 2015-'16 mayor said.

"The mayor should be a unifying force within council."

Cr Truong, a councillor for 11 years, said it was time for him to serve his first term as mayor.

The former refugee from Vietnam said he'd be a mayor with a "good heart for the people".

"Our city is a 'city of opportunity' where if a person like me can be mayor, everyone can."

Cr Maria Sampey, whose only mayoral term was in 2005, said she would be a hard-working chair of council.

"What I'd like to introduce is what I did last time and devote one day a week for residents to 'meet the mayor'.

"If residents had issues, they can come and have a cup of tea and discuss their problems."

Richard Tracey wrote about how a "routine thoughtless act ... when repeated day after day, becomes unkindness and often cruelty".

"This is how 'care' becomes 'neglect'."

He reported "often shocking evidence" of unacceptable practices such as inadequate wound management leading to septicaemia and death.

Many aged care homes didn't encourage toilet use or rationed continence pads so residents were lying in faeces and urine, the report stated.

Food, nutrition and hydration were "dreadful", with a high number of assaults and overprescribing of sedative drugs and physical restraints, he reported.

Of the success stories, those homes prevailed due to their own "passion and dedication".

"In short, they are succeeding despite the aged care system in which they operate rather than because of it."

A full report recommending "comprehensive reform" is expected to be released in the next 12 months.

Ms Mitchell paid tribute to the late Commissioner Tracey, who worked on the report in his dying days.

"I think we were extraordinarily lucky to have the chair of this commission that we had.

"His death was an absolute tragedy. He was the most empathetic person."

Commissioner Tracey sat down with Ms Mitchell after she'd given evidence at a hearing.

"He talked to me about how important my contribution had been.

"In response to him, we in the community have to get behind the report.

"He's exposed the problems, we know what the solutions are and we have to make sure that the Governments make the money available for that to happen."

A Greater Dandenong Living Treasure, Ms Mitchell is an aged-care advocate for Council On The Ageing (COTA).

She is involved in a new RMIT-developed training course for care workers.

She is a past director and founder of the Springvale Community Aid and Advice Bureau (now South East Community Links), as well as setting up Springvale Neighbourhood House and the Family Mediation Centre.

She is also a former president of the Australian Council of Social Service.

Road jungle ‘disgrace’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Unsightly grass and weeds have sprouted over a metre tall along a gateway arterial in Dandenong South.

Business owner Dave Tucker says the ugly jungle along Greens Road is a blight on the rapidly developing business precinct.

His photographs capture extravagant weed and grass growth on median strips and footpaths from Eastlink to South Gippsland Highway.

He says the unkempt vegetation is a safety hazard blocking traffic sightlines as well as being "disgraceful on the eye".

"The upkeep and maintenance of the surrounding roads reflect a poor reflection of the care factor."

According to the Department of Transport, Greens Road grass was last cut in late August, and due for its next mow within the week after 7 November.

It is cut six times a year and sprayed with weed control chemicals four times a year.

A Department of Transport spokesperson said its roadside mowing program was "al-

Towering grasses impede sightlines on Greens Road near Nicole Way. ready underway".

"We're busy working our way across the region.

"The timing of our grass cutting is important and that's why we're starting now to ensure we're on top of the spring growth ahead of the fire danger period."

The Department states it does regular roadside inspections of its 22,000 kilometre road network.

Stabber’s jail appeal fails

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Sean O'Reilly.

Maria Sampey.

Youhorn Chea.

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A Hallam man has failed in his appeal against a nine-year jail term for the frenzied stabbing of an “entirely innocent” man outside a Noble Park party.

Michael Lukudu, 32, was guilty of intentionally causing serious injury to a victim he chased down and stabbed 11 times with a knife on 1 October 2016.

He argued at the Victorian Supreme Court of Appeal that the sentence and the six year and nine month non-parole period were “manifestly excessive”.

On 6 November, Justices David Ashley and Richard Niall found the sentence was “severe” but not “wholly outside the range so as to be manifestly excessive”.

The critically wounded 24-year-old victim suffered an “appalling catalogue” of injuries, they stated.

The man required 40 stitches, nine blood transfusions, abdominal surgery and treatment for a collapsed lung.

He remained in intensive care for several days, unable to return to work for several months.

The two judges noted that the maximum jail term for the offence was 20 years.

“The intentional infliction of serious injury by stabbing an entirely innocent victim multiple times with a knife is an extremely grave

offence,” the judges stated.

“The knife was produced by the applicant when he was the aggressor and under no threat.”

Lukudu argued in mitigation that he’d pleaded guilty early, didn’t have an extensive criminal record, and had never previously been in prison.

He’d also been exposed to considerable violence, trauma and racism as a refugee child in Sudan and Egypt.

Last year, sentencing judge Mark Gamble of the Victorian County Court had dismissed Lukudu’s claim that the PTSD played a role in the stabbing.

There was little likelihood that the victim would take control of the knife “that Mr Lukudu was wielding with such ferocity”, Judge Gamble had stated.

“The two men ended up on the ground and then once he was in a position of physical superiority over the victim, Mr Lukudu immediately launched a savage, cowardly and sustained attack on the victim with the knife.

“I simply do not accept the account ... to the effect that he was afraid that the victim was going to get the knife and use it to stab him.”

A forensic psychologist had concluded that alcohol as well as PTSD contributed to the attack. “It was likely the offence would not have occurred if the applicant had been sober.” dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

IN BRIEF

Street plan is alive

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Greater Dandenong councillor has called for a street to be named after his long-standing former colleague Roz Blades.

But there is a significant but perhaps not insurmountable hurdle.

At a council meeting on 28 October, Cr Loi Truong said many residents had asked about Cr Blades since her sudden resignation as mayor and councillor in October.

She had served as councillor on the cities of Springvale and Greater Dandenong since 1987.

"One raised ... that I should support a name of a street in her name," Cr Truong said.

"Should we change the policy to allow her to have the name while she is alive?"

Mayor Youhorn Chea agreed that a street name in Springvale or Noble Park would be a fitting tribute.

However other councillors pointed out that it wasn't possible because she was very much alive.

According to Victoria's place-naming rules, street names can commemorate people held in "strong regard" by the community.

Living people should be avoided for street names because "community attitudes and opinions can change over time", the rules state.

However the naming authority - with the consent of the named person - can seek an exemption from the Registrar of the Office of Geographic Names.

Cr Sean O'Reilly added to the tributes. He said that he'd been criticised by a resident for not being like Ms Blades.

"I said I'll try and I'll continue to try but it's quite a high benchmark to meet."

Ms Blades was "one of a kind" and a "giant of the community".

"Her absence will be felt deeply."

Greater Dandenong's 2019 citizen of the year Wicki Vickramasingham said Ms Blades helped many groups and charities representing refugees, asylum seekers and ethnic communities.

Police remain on the hunt for two offenders involved in an armed robbery of a pokies venue in Police Road Mulgrave last year.

Armed Crime Squad detectives say two men armed with firearms held-up the venue just before 6.30pm on 2 March 2018.

They demanded and received some cash before being chased by patrons into a nearby car park.

A shot was allegedly fired into the roof. A person was assaulted and was taken to hospital with minor injuries, police say.

The robbers escaped in a get-away car driven by a third unknown offender.

Police arrested a 44-year-old Endeavour Hills man in Springvale on 6 September 2019.

He was charged with armed robbery and conduct endangering life.

The other two alleged offenders remain at large.

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

Learner makes meal of it A learner driver’s car was impounded after dropping a burnout in front of police in Springvale on 8 November.

The driver’s blue Holden Statesman lost traction as it pulled out onto Princes Highway from a McDonald’s outlet car park, police say.

Though the driver was on his L-plates, his unlicensed girlfriend was allegedly in the front passenger seat.

His fully licensed father and another passenger sat in the back.

The vehicle was intercepted and impounded for 30 days.

The driver is expected to face Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on driving charges in coming months.

Wicki Vickramasingham receives his citizen-of-the-year award from then-mayor Roz Blades in January 2019.

"She has been one of the best advocates for us in the South East."

Mr Vickramasingham first met Ms Blades a year after she was first elected onto Springvale Council. She set a tall example for other councillors, the former Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre board member said.

"She's done a very good job for the commu-

Calais on the run

nity - not just the ethnic community but the broader community.

"She loved the job. She loved to work for the community, she devoted her life to the community and developed friendships with the community.

"We all wonder how we will fill this gap."

Joined in for the chorus Singing students from James Cook Primary School joined in unison with half-a-million others across Australia for a simultaneous singalong on Thursday 7 November.

The Endeavour Hills based students gathered at Harmony Square in Dandenong to add their voices to the Music: Count Us In's Celebration Day. At 11.30am, children across the country sang the same song We Are, penned especially for the event by award-winning songwriter John Foreman OAM.

Armed robbers at large

Police are on the look-out for a distinctive Holden Calais that has evaded several attempted intercepts in Dandenong, Doveton and Noble Park.

The bright blue Holden Calais VF's driver was spotted by Greater Dandenong Crime Investigation Unit detectives in Lilly Pilly Avenue, Doveton about 6.40pm on 20 October.

He failed to stop for police as they tried to intercept him. He was last seen speeding east on Box Street.

The same vehicle evaded police in Dandenong and Noble Park earlier that week.

The driver was described as male, bald, Southern European appearance, aged between 25-30 and wearing a dark T-shirt.

The Calais features a silver front grill and a distinctive black GT stripe on the bonnet. It was also displaying false number plates.

Any information on 1800 333 000 or www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.

James Cook Primary School students Tahlia, Gunnu, Kim, Mustafa, Briana and Hiba were part Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS of the national singalong. 200153

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STAR JOURNAL 3

NEWS

Friends for good health

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Loneliness is the new health hazard.

And so, women's friendship cafes have sprung up as the cure.

Women's Association South East Melbourne Australia (WASEMA) has partnered with five community hubs to form five cafes in Springvale, Dandenong, Endeavour Hills, Dandenong North and Cockatoo.

The aim is for safe and friendly women's spaces - just like a Men's Shed is for guys, says WASEMA spokesperson Elaine Smith.

They welcome all ages, cultures and abilities with members seeking work, study, training or other help.

The program helps new arrivals and longtime residents who feel "out of place" in the new growing suburbs, Ms Smith says.

"The connections we make give us a new lease of life.

"We don't have to be alone at home feeling unsure, one morning each week we can spend happy time with others, and gain ideas about what steps we want to take.

"Soon we will be saying hello to people we know at the shops, school gate, bus stop and then realise we belong in a neighbourhood."

Dalal Smiley, chief executive of Wellsprings for Women, said research showed that being socially isolated is as damaging as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

The cafes help address the prevalent mental health issues facing nearly one in five women, such as anxiety, depression and mood disorders, Ms Smiley said.

"Social networks and friendships not only have an impact on reducing the risk of mortality or developing certain diseases, but they also help individuals to recover when they do fall ill."

Ms Smiley said the cafes were designed to bring women together in activities of their choice.

"It will certainly help lots of women just looking for a friend, a connection in an informal, relaxed and welcoming environment."

A friendship cafe member, who saw herself as the oldest there, said she'd forged friendships across all ages and cultures.

"Some mornings I don't want to get up, but I put on some clothes and go - and then I really know why I came.

"We talk about everything, we laugh, we cry, we tell stories. The little kids play while the women really connect."

The program was funded by the Federal Government's Department of Social Services.

The cafes are at Springvale Neighbourhood House on Tuesdays 9.30am-12pm, Endeavour Hills Neighbourhood Centre on Tuesdays 9.30am-12pm, North Dandenong Neighbourhood House on Wednesdays 9.30am-12pm and Wellsprings for Women on Thursdays 9.30am-12pm.

Jolene Stewart and Liseby Lapierre enjoy a coffee at the WASEMA friendship cafe in Endeavour Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Hills. 199445

Picture: SUPPLIED

Pashtoon, Charni, Samantha, Sarita and Cristina enjoy a feast at Wellsprings for Picture: GARY SISSONS Women. 198947

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A friendship cafe opens at Cockatoo Community House.

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NEWS

‘Low-level’ prisoner rise

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Child Protection Minister Luke Donnellan has spoken out on the soaring numbers of "low level" prisoners in Victorian jails.

Speaking at the Springvale Monash Legal Service AGM on 6 November, Mr Donnellan noted that 40 per cent of people leaving outof-home care and foster care were falling foul of the criminal justice system.

Part of the solution was therapeutic family intervention, to stop the flow into child protection and to keep families together, Mr Donnellan said.

He was concerned with the "massive increases in incarceration rates over the past 10 years".

"There's work going on at the moment on how do we divert men and women, for argument's sake because a lot of it relates to domestic violence, out of the criminal justice system."

In this case, jail was an "incredibly difficult way to house an issue".

"Well it's a stupid way to house an issue to put it brutally.

"You're just housing something and spending a lot of money doing it.

"We need to work as a Government to reinvest in the justice system to ensure that in many ways we're not criminalising people with low levels of violence and who have been subject to the trauma of domestic violence being perpetrated on them in the first place."

The next day, the state's Crime Statistics Agency released figures showing women prisoners had risen to 838 in 2018, more than doubling in the past six years.

Four of 10 women prisoners were victims of family violence. Half of female prisoners were victims of crime.

Mr Donnellan said children in out-of-home care were at particular risk of being unneces-

SMLS chairperson Dona Tantirimudalige, patron Justice Shane Marshall, Child Protection Minister Luke Donnellan and SMLS executive director Picture: FELICIEN BIZOT Kristen Wallwork. 200317 sarily criminalised.

For example, when a child breaks a window at their out-of-home dwelling, they can be reported to police.

"That can be their first interaction with police," Mr Donnellan said.

"You're criminalising young people who have serious issues of disadvantage, not living with parents and are in out-of-home care."

If they were at home with their parents instead, they may be sternly reprimanded. They would be told "you're a bloody ratbag, don't do that again".

"But you certainly wouldn't take them down to the police station.

"We don't certainly need to be criminalising young people who have had high levels of social disadvantage and then be punishing them all over again because they've ended up with parents who are not equipped to be actually great parents, to be honest.

"In many ways that's why we need to stop that cyclical treatment going from generation to generation and the harm that actually does."

At the meeting, the community-based Springvale Monash Legal Service reported a

near-doubling of family violence order cases in 2019 - up from 867 to 1553.

The expanding free-legal-advice service is set to open an extra branch in Narre Warren in December with outreach services in Pakenham and Doveton.

The service also now provides full-time family violence duty services at Dandenong Magistrates' Court.

A Sporting Change program was launched to legally educate students through sport at secondary colleges in Pakenham, Cranbourne East and Narre Warren.

Child abuse calls ring out

By Cam Lucadou-Wells One in five calls to a child protection intake hotline in the South region went unanswered, according to official statistics.

The Child Protection Intake phone received 34,571 calls in the South Division in the 12 months up to 19 August 2019.

Of those, 7143 calls - or 20 per cent - were not answered.

The South Division includes Casey, Cardinia and Greater Dandenong municipalities as well as bayside suburbs, the Mornington Peninsula and Bass Coast.

The hotline provided by the Department of Health and Human Services accepts calls from doctors, teachers and nurses making mandatory reports of child abuse.

Unanswered call rates were significantly less in the West (12 per cent) and North (4 per cent).

Waiting times were on average 9.7 minutes in the South, compared to 1.27 minutes in the

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West and 1.94 minutes in the North.

Currently each division manages its own intake service.

Child Protection Minister Luke Donnellan said “new work practices” were being implemented for peak demands in the South Division.

“A new consolidated intake service is (being) established to ensure consistent performance across all divisions.”

Mr Donnellan said 650 extra practitioners had been added to child protection since 2014, in response to the issue.

“As reports to child protection increase, it’s critical we have more staff to help keep our children safe.”

The State Opposition said the unanswered calls would cause delays into investigations.

Opposition child protection spokesperson Nick Wakeling said “teachers, nurses and other professionals will lose confidence in mandatory reporting if Labor’s Human Services Department can’t even pick up the phone”.

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STAR JOURNAL 5

LOOKING BACK

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

11 November 1969 TV no bar to crowds

100 years ago 13 November 1919 Fresh Eggs Wanted To the Editor Sir, It has been brought under my notice, by ladies who are interested in returned nurses who are being treated in hospital and rest homes, owing to the effect of the war, that they have difficulty in obtaining a fresh supply of eggs. May we appeal through the columns of your paper, to those interested in our returned nurses, and ask if they would donate a few fresh eggs per week, to reach the office of the Secretary by Wednesday of every week. Your etc.

W H A Rodd Chairman C W Russell Hon Sec Dandenong Patriotic League

50 years ago

Any fears by Dandenong Show Society that television coverage of their annual event would be to the detriment of attendance were dispelled by mid-afternoon Saturday. Favoured by excellent weather and planned to maintain its claim of being the best one day show in the state, the non-stop attractions saw 30,000 patrons break all records. Gate takings were up by $2096 to set a new high of $7638. Attendants within Greaves Reserve alone parked 3000 vehicles.

"Dandenong has produced the ideal grand parade for television as well as for the paying customer" commented Mr Murray Ashford, who produced the live telecast. His team of 26 had cameras in action for more than two hours before live transmission began at 2.30pm, to ensure no hitches. Apart from the release of pigeons, the spectacle of the multi-circled grand

parade and the host of distinguished guest performing some formalities, the cameras had a host of subjects in the arena, including the magnificent display by the Victorian Police Highland Pipe Band, the Dandenong Municipal Band, three adroit teams of baton twirlers, a massive display of highland dancers and spectacular horse jumping events. President Ken Male, and the 62 committee members were lauded by parliamentarians, neighbouring show society's section judges, and exhibitors.

velopment of safe injecting clinics including: a) "An area for 'safe dealing' be established near the safe injecting clinics to ensure that dealers are confined to a particular area. b) Any clinic be developed in association with a medical facility with suitable qualified medical supervision. c) The operation be associated with strong police presence in the surrounding streets. d) the clinic be located away from residential areas. e) Council be provided with monitoring and evaluation data.

20 years ago

5 years ago

15 November 1999 Trading Places

10 November 2014 Flocking to Dandenong Library

Greater Dandenong council has asked for a "safe dealing" area to be considered around safe injecting houses. The City of Greater Dandenong suggests the following issues be considered as part of the planning process for the de-

More than 22,000 people a week are flocking to Dandenong Library. The new dual-level hub's visitation is up by 8000 at the old venue. People are seen lining up outside before it opens each morning.

Driven for social gains A driving course for Hazara women and leadership training for South Sudanese communities in Dandenong have landed $10,000 grants.

The projects were among 75 across Australia receiving collectively nearly $500,000 as part of the Australia Post 2019 community grants program.

Next year, with the funding, Community Four with the Australia Hazara Women's Friendship Network intend to help 40 women get their learner driving permit.

It is a crucial skill for refugee women's "selfempowerment", says Community Four chief executive Gavin Ackerly.

"It breaks down their social isolation, enables them access to work and study, and builds their self-esteem.

"Most importantly it encourages them to play a more active part in the wider Australian society."

The project will also help the drivers improve their English language skills and access

to sport and recreation opportunities.

Community Abundance Inc also receives a grant for its program to support and upskill six leaders in Dandenong's South Sudanese communities.

It aims to give leaders the skills to resolve disputes through mediation, and to respond to social issues in a consultative way, says Community Abundance director Deng Kor. "While circumstances change, we share experiences of migration and settlement, as well as the effects on entire community, isolation and family breakdown.

"The Australia Post funding will support our family violence primary prevention project."

Community Four learn-to-drive student Bakhtawar.

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During a bushire you may experience interruptions to your electricity and/or gas supply, even if your property isn’t directly affected. For this reason your bushire contingency plan should factor in possible loss of gas and electricity.

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

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

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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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Tuesday, 12 November, 2019

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NEWS

Man charged with murder

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A 25-year-old man has been charged with the murder of Mitat Rasimi in Dandenong in March.

The Hampton Park man had been arrested during raids across Melbourne on the morning of Thursday 7 November.

He was also charged with firearms offences.

The man was set to face Melbourne Magistrates' Court on 7 November, according to police.

A 26-year-old Hallam man was also arrested. He was released without charge.

Mr Rasimi, 51, was found dead with gunshot wounds inside his car, which crashed into a pole in Dawn Avenue on 3 March, police allege.

An orange Ford Ranger ute, allegedly linked to the shooting, was found at McMahens Road in Bangholme 30 minutes later, police say.

A man was believed to have attempted to set the ute alight before being disturbed by a witness.

Taskforce Sector detecives led raids at two residences in Endeavour Hills as well as dwellings in Hampton Park, Hallam, Dandenong, Deer Park, Seaford and Narre Warren South from 5am on 7 November.

Police from the Homicide Squad, the antioutlaw motorcycle gang Echo Taskforce, the Special Operations Group, Dog Squad as well as Australian Federal Police members were involved.

Taskforce Sector was formed this year to investigate links between several fatal shootings including the killing of two people outside a

Game, set, match indoors

By Cam Lucadou-Wells By the end of November, the Sandown Indoor Sports Centre will be no more.

It's the last of the indoor tennis stadiums in Melbourne - a mecca for players as far away as Clyde North, Essendon and Point Cook.

When rain pelts on the centre's roof, the players pour in.

For 38 years the centre has offered dry refuge for cricketers, volleyballers and soccer and tennis players.

And on this night during a heavy spring deluge, more than 100 players are exerting themselves on court or in cricket nets - or waiting in the wings for a go.

Behind the front desk, Annette Hagan directs players on court while fielding a frenzy of phone calls from cricket clubs wanting to train indoors.

She says the building's new owner wants to convert the premises to a more lucrative factory or warehouse.

"It's interesting because there's quite a few around here that are empty," she muses.

"It is a shame. This centre is an icon - you

call it progress."

Murray Johnston, of Narre Warren, has been competing in the Thursday indoor tennis social comp since 2006.

He moved to the centre after the indoor tennis arena in Ferntree Gully closed.

There's nowhere else to play in all weather, all year round, Mr Johnston says.

"It's a big issue. We're wondering what we're going to do."

Up to 25 cricket clubs base their pre-season training at the centre from July, says coach Saliya Ahangama.

But at least there are some alternative venues in Cranbourne, Doveton, Croydon and Moorabbin.

"It's been a good service to the community and the clubs."

Ms Hagan has been enquiring with nearby outdoor tennis clubs to host the competitions.

"It's going to be a bit different, having to look at the weather forecast, wondering how long it will take for the courts to dry.

"You look at it as a new adventure."

The centre closes on 28 November.

Mitat Rasimi, 51, was allegedly shot and killed in a car in Dawn Avenue, Dandenong on 3 March.

Prahran nightclub in April.

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

Murray Johnston, Annette Hagan and Saliya Ahangama enjoy the centre before it closes on 28 Picture: CAM LUCADOU-WELLS November. 200397

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STAR JOURNAL 7

NEWS

Smart eyes Keysborough CFA’s bid for a thermal imaging camera has been given a significant helping hand.

South Eastern Masonic Centre has donated $4400 towards the purchase of the “essential” equipment.

It will enable Keysborough fireys to detect hotspots otherwise unseen by the human eye, a station spokesperson said.

“A firefighter may then be able to cool down the affected area, making it safe.

“The donation has helped the brigade to begin a process of purchasing ... which would be a great benefit to the community.”

South Eastern Masonic Centre secretary Giorgio Migliaccio said donations flowed in from the nine Lodges and Orders that meet at the centre as well as the Freemasons Foundation.

Funds were also raised at raffles at the centre’s monthly Beer with a Brother events.

Reverend Berlin Guerrero inside the Uniting Church in Scott Street, Dandenong. 200173 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Preaching without fear

South Eastern Masonic Centre president Andrew Gleeson and secretary Giorgio Migliaccio present Keysborough CFA captain Paul Townsend, middle, with a $4400 cheque. 198831 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

From front page He gained access to Australia eventually on a tourist visa in 2011 - before being approved for a humanitarian visa.

His wife and children later joined him in Australia. He has since served as a pastor in the Albury-Wodonga region as well as working for the synod.

It's still too unsafe for him to return to the Philippines, he says.

Human rights have further deteriorated under the "tyrannical" Roderigo Deturte Government which has employed martial law.

In Dandenong, Mr Guerrero is getting to know his diverse congregation and its 14 different languages.

"I'm very glad at the way I've been welcomed.

"It's an indication that they would welcome my particular point of view as a minister and a Filipino - that I'm adding something to the mix."

His human rights stance stems from his

Christian convictions, he says.

"Life is meant to be offered in the service of others.

"I saw that it's the Filipino people that need to be served, especially uplifting them from suffering and oppression against a very repressive regime."

Mr Guerrero grew up in poverty, like most families without "necessities of life". They didn't share in the country's abundant riches such as gold and other minerals.

"I saw I was part of this huge mass of people who are not secure in their lives or their future."

And how does Mr Guerrero see the state of human rights in Australia?

He is concerned by what he sees as an attack on "working people" and unions.

"If Australia is not able to uphold and protect refugees who are the most vulnerable members of society, how much more would it look after the welfare and rights of its own citizens?"

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BUSINESS PROFILE

DANDENONG SHOW

A new model for your care TLC Primary Care is a state-of-the-art bulk billing medical centre conveniently located on Young Road in Hallam.

Focused on family medicine and caring for the older residents in the community, the medical centre offers general practitioner consultations, physiotherapy, podiatry, dietetics, hydrotherapy chronic disease management and nursing services.

TLC Primary Care Hallam is co-located with Homewood a residential aged care home that offers quality care, dining and relaxation options; plus a range of social activities and outings designed to keep residents actively engaged in the local community.

TLC looks at health care from a new perspective. Its innovative approach of co-locating health care and aged care is a first for Australia.

Lou Pascuzzi, CEO of TLC said “Our general practitioners bulk bill and are currently accepting new patients."

"In addition to providing health care to our local community, our doctors and allied

healthcare team also support the care staff of our residential aged care home. If our care team require clarity on an issue, if they want to check medications or discuss any element of care with the general practitioners, they are just next door.”

Bringing medical centres into its residential aged care homes has delivered major benefits for TLC including improved clinical outcomes, reduced clinical errors, a reduction in hospital admissions, and reduced need for ambulances to transport the aged care resident to hospital.

The team of general practitioners at TLC Primary Care - Hallam offer consultations in a number of languages: Dr Con Lahanis - Greek Dr Malik Majoka - Punjabi, Urdu & Hindi Dr Irumini Muthukumarana - Sinhalese The centre is open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Appointments are required to see their medical professionals as they cannot accommodate walk-ins, but same-day appointments are usually available.

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Show action in all corners

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Defying a grim forecast, rains kept away but the crowds poured into the 148th Dandenong Show on 9-10 November.

Visitors were treated to a full program of magnificent animals, fireworks, hot rod cars, Frisbee-catching dogs, gumboot throws and wheelie bin races.

The healthy turnout indicated that the show remains a treasured event, show president Alan Collier said.

"We all had a good time.

"While it was raining in other areas (on the Saturday), it wasn't in Dandenong."

The committee was joined by VIPs including mayor Youhorn Chea, Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams and former Journal editor Peter Simcock and his wife Julie.

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Book your appointment on 03 8652 3700 Open Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm On-site parking available

We are co-located with Homewood that offers quality residential aged care to the Hallam community.

8 Young Road, Hallam VIC 3803

Our team of female and male GPs offer consultations in a number of languages.

Dr Con Lahanis - Greek Dr Malik Majoka - Punjabi, Urdu & Hindi Dr Irumini Muthukumarana - Sinhalese

tlcprimarycare.com.au

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Tuesday, 12 November, 2019

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

DANDENONG SHOW

A rider from Sporting Horse Australia is at one with their steed. 198132

Possum the Rainbow Lorikeet with Bert Sanders from Warburton. 198132

Julia Rhodes won first and second for her needlework. 198132

Cattle stewards Sandra Paxton, Jeff Tully and Ken Allen. 198132

Kaylene, right, and daughters Jade and Mikayla scooped the placings in the Bin Race. 198132

Greg Rossborough, left, was recognised for 50 years of volunteering at the show, with president Alan Collier. 198132

Deborah Allen from Yarragon with Ardmona Laird Joch, who won Champion Gelding Clydesdale. 198132

Beaconhills College Pakenham students Raymond, Emma and Health with their entries in the Student Horticulture event. 198132

Kelpie dog Gogetta Banjo from Yarra Junction shows his ''Working Dog'' skills. 198132

Head steward Paul Payne with prize blooms in the horticulture section. 198132

Tess Runting with the Moralla team champion Corridale ram Oakley. The team also won Champion Ewe, Supreme Corridale Exhibit, Best White Fleece, Reserve Champion Ram, Reserve Champion Lamb. 198132

LEVEL CROSSING REMOVAL WORKS 19–21 NOVEMBER 2019 Buses replace trains between Dandenong and Cranbourne

Evans Road is the first of four crossings being removed as part of the Cranbourne Line Upgrade.

contact@levelcrossings.vic.gov.au 1800 105 105 levelcrossings.vic.gov.au

This vital upgrade will fully duplicate the track between Cranbourne and Dandenong and deliver a brand new Merinda Park Station.

For more information visit levelcrossings.vic.gov.au/disruptions

Buses replace trains 8.30pm Tuesday 19 November to last train Thursday 21 November Allow up to 45 minutes of extra travel time

Translation service – For languages other than English, please call 9280 0780.

Please contact us if you would like this information in an accessible format.

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To prepare the rail for the new road bridge at Evans Road, buses will replace trains between Dandenong and Cranbourne stations in mid November. This will allow us to safely complete electrical works, service relocation and preparatory works for the road bridge.

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STAR JOURNAL 13

FOCUS ON … SENIORS

The clubhouse is the centre of the Sanctuary Lifestyle community.

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Time to live The fabulous new Club House facility is open and thriving at the exciting new over 55 community located at 9 Kingburgh Close in Drouin.

Stages 1, 2 and 3 are now officially sold out with stage 4 and 5 selling fast.

Sanctuary Lifestyle Drouin is the premium choice when it comes to community living boasting smart designed, high quality homes and 6-star resort style facilities including a central clubhouse with indoor pool and spa, gym, billiard room and cinema.

The community also features a tennis court, bowling green, men’s shed and caravan/ boat storage.

All homes are two bedrooms or two bedrooms plus study. Lock up garages, stone bench tops, double glazed windows, stainless steel appliances and heating and cooling are standard specifications on all homes.

Beatiful

With 10 different home designs and premium locations still available you are sure to find the right layout and location to suit your individual lifestyle.

As the most spacious community of its type and located close to shops, transport and all local amenities it’s no wonder the stages are selling fast.Owning your own home along with affordable site fees and no council rates or body corporate to pay coupled with discounted services and NBN access why wouldn’t you want to downsize and enjoy the benefits of community living?

The beautiful surrounds of Drouin’s main street and the numerous walking tracks make Sanctuary Lifestyle Drouin the perfect place to live.

For a free information package or appointments at the sales office at 9 Kingburgh Close in Drouin please contact Elizabeth at 1300 835 463 or emailinfo@sanctuarylifestyle.com.au.

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Inc: Lock up garage, stone benches, Bosch appliances including dishwasher, double glazed windows, carpets, tiles & window furnishings, heating & cooling, Alfresco, landscaping & garden shed.

OWN YOUR OWN HOME NO STAMP DUTY NO COUNCIL RATES - CALL 1300 835 463 9 Kingburgh Close Drouin VIC 3818 ❘ 1300 835 463 ❘ info@sanctuarylifestyle.com.au ❘ sanctuarylifestyle.com.au 14 STAR JOURNAL

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CHRISTMAS IN GREATER DANDENONG

A Parkmore Christmas Christmas is almost here at Parkmore Shopping Centre. Come and see Santa as he arrives on a vintage fire truck on Friday 15 November from 4.30pm onwards, with his friendly team of elves and Mrs Claus!

Santa will be handing out free gifts for children to celebrate (while stocks last). Once Santa has finished his parade, visitors can make their way out into the car park via the Nando's entrance, grab some food from one of the many takeaway food operators and enjoy the free family movie Home Alone. Make sure to bring your own chair or rug and remember, this is an alcohol free event.

Parkmore is also excited to announce the arrival of the new Santa photo set! Santa photos will begin on Saturday 16 November. The centre also welcomes back pet and sensitive Santa photos. Save time and book on line, although walk-ins are also accepted. Please call the guest service desk on 9798 9494 to book your session for sensitive or pet Santa.

Plus, a VIP Santa experience is up for grabs if you book on line early. Visit parkmoreshopping.com.au for more details.

Trading hours will be extended during the last week leading up to Christmas to make shopping easier for customers. Extra customer service staff will be on site to help with any customer enquires, helping customers to cars and much more! Take your Christmas presents to the charity group, who will wrap them for a gold coin donation.

Parkmore Shopping Centre have all your

Santa will make a special guest appearance.

174450

Denis Walter will again headline this year's Dandenong Carols in Harmony Square.

Sisters Ruba and Abigail got into the festive spirit at a previous Carols by Candlelight.

Denis Walter leads line-up Meet Santa at Parkmore Shopping Centre! shopping needs covered this Christmas with Kmart, Big W, Coles, Woolworths, Best and Less and over 100 speciality stores.

Vist the Parkmore Shopping Centre Facebook page and website for further details, or contact the guest service desk on 9798 9494.

Carol’s royalty, Denis Walter, will once again be guest of honour at this year’s Greater Dandenong Carols in Harmony Square.

Now in its 72st year, Carols in Harmony Square will be held on Friday 13 December.

Denis Walter is synonymous with the Vision Australia’s annual Carols By Candlelight on Christmas Eve and for many people in Melbourne it wouldn’t feel like Christmas without his presence.

He will be accompanied by the Greater Dandenong Band and there will also be a special guest appearance by Santa for the young

and young at heart.

A Christmas craft market will be held in conjunction with the carols for anyone looking for some last minute gift ideas.

Bring a picnic, warm up those vocal chords and sing along to some of your favourite Christmas songs at this free family event.

Carols in Harmony Square will be held on Friday 13 December from 7pm to 9.30pm.

For more information about Carols in Harmony Square visit greaterdandenong.com/ carols

Fri 15 Nov 4pm Welcome Santa as he arrives at Parkmore Shopping Centre.

Followed by a Free Movie screening of Home Alone in the carpark (near Nando’s) Fri 15 Nov – come and meet Santa between 4 – 6 pm Movie starts at 6.30pm Plan your visit at parkmoreshopping.com.au 12431881-LB47-19

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 12 November, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 15

FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE

LUXURY OVER 50S LIVING A BRAND-NEW luxury development is well underway in Officer South, catering to working, semi- or fully retired over 50s who are young at heart and want to downsize to a bigger life.

Lifestyle Kaduna Park offers 5-star resortstyle facilities set in fully landscaped and maintained gardens in a safe and secure community.

All contemporary, low-maintenance homes feature landscaped gardens and quality fixtures and fittings. Front gardens are maintained by the community gardener, leaving homeowners time to relax and enjoy all the community has to offer including a multi-million-dollar clubhouse, heated pool and spa, cinema, gym, bowling green, alfresco BBQ area and even a pickleball court.

A community management team will live onsite to oversee all day-to-day happenings including a busy calendar of social events and activities like yoga, aerobics, dancing and woodwork. You can be as active and social as you choose or relax and live more privately knowing you are surrounded by

like-minded neighbours.

Development is full speed ahead at Lifestyle Kaduna Park, with first frames expected to be up before Christmas and Stage 1 homeowners preparing to move in from May 2020.Now is the perfect time

Tuesday, 12 November, 2019 5 February, 2018

SEJ

12432543

Real Estate

Pop-in to visit the display homes at Lifestyle Berwick Waters open Monday to Sunday or join us for cheese and wine every Thursday evening from 4-8pm. Visit 10 Skylark Bvd, Clyde North or call 1300 50 55 60 for more information. ●

daNdeNoNG, NobLe ParK, sPrINGvaLe, KeysborouGH, HaLLam, doveToN, eNdeavour HILLs

SEJ

PERFECTLY FLAWLESS

to choose your new home in your desired position within the community. A beautiful selection of two and three-bedroom homes are now available from $326,000, and with no stamp duty or council rates, this is an affordable opportunity for luxury living.

T 8P_

Real Estate

SEJ

T 16P_

Real Estate

ViEWS, ShEdS, PoSiTioN, PoTENTiAL!

RENoWNEd NEERiM JUNCTioN PRoPERTY - 143.7 ACRES One of the districts most fertile & picturesque properties is now available for sale. 143.7 acres with a total road frontage of 1.16 kms to Main Neerim Road, NayookPowelltown Road & Paynter Road. Rich Red/Chocolate soils, permanent springwater to header tank & entire farm under pasture. Big hayshed & solid stockyards. A well built brick home set amidst 4 acres of incredible established gardens with spectacular trees. Views to Westernport to the south and Mountain views to the north east. Located 30 kms Warragul & 10 kms Neerim South.

95 RodiER RoAd YARRRAGoN Beautiful, practical easily maintained inside & out!

A clever floorplan & site plan maximizing space & potential. There is space for access for caravan or boat etc in addition to the dbl r/c garage. All rooms feel spacious including the master BR with WIR & ensuite. A formal lounge is adjacent to the master & separate from the open plan living area beyond the stunning kitchen & dining areas, light filled & open to the family room with a framed view!

Entertain under the large alfresco all year round.

Level walk to town, school, parks etc. $460,000 internet id: 21517982 View property and more details at www.sej.com.au

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul

www.sej.com.au

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Tuesday, 12 November, 2019

Unmatched for location, soil fertility and panoramic views.

2875 MAiN NEERiM RoAd NEERiM JUNCTioN EXPRESSioN oF iNTEREST oFFERS CLoSE - FRidAY 13Th dEC 2019, 5PM - UNLESS SoLd PRioR internet id: 21524130

View property and more details at www.sej.com.au

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul

www.sej.com.au com.au

27 LiLLEYS RoAd WARRAGUL Elevated overlooking Warragul & the Strzelecki mountains South East you’ll feel on top of the world. Off street parking abundant, open space for the animals to play, a rear gate, chook yard & sectioned pergola allowing much fun outdoors. The large shed is a handy surprise.

This lovely 3 bedroom weatherboard with a homely feel & potential plus is a clear winner for those looking for great potential for growth & excellent return. Walk to schools, sporting facilities or town.

Superb investment or first home buy. $350,000-$380,000 internet id: 21518531 View property and more details at www.sej.com.au

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul

www.sej.com.au

realestate.starcommunity.com.au

ENTERTAINMENT

Spooks at Sunday haunt Tricks, treats and ghoulish costumes were on show for a Halloween Festival at Dandenong Market on 3 November.

More than 34,000 turned out, many receiving spooky facepaint or hair makeovers. Many strode the catwalk in the best costume parade.

Other attractions included a trick-or-treat treasure hunt, pumpkin carving, movies, wand making and Halloween-themed cuisine.

A trick-or-treater in Dalmation facepaint and costume.

A fairy meets a monstrous mask.

A wacky shade of purple hair.

A cowboy herds some attention at the festival.

A haunting costume and facepaint ensemble.

WHAT’S ON

·

We Love a Piano at Christmas With a touch of Christmas thrown in for good measure, hear fabulous show tunes, familiar classical music and even a few pop songs as The Two Piano Men, Shannon Whitelock and Matthew Hadgraft, put their comical twist on everything from the old masters to pop piano players. We Love a Piano is a snazzy double act that is a perfect blend of music, mayhem and laughter. Morning tea and free parking voucher included in the ticket price of all Encore programs.

Thursday 5 December, 10.30am. Drum Theatre, corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Tickets from $16. Book at drumtheatre.com.au/event.

A special treat This concert is a special treat for all audience as two maestros perform live on stage. Internationally renowned Rabab Player Homayoun Sakhi accompanied by Tabla player Ustad Tari Khan will take us for a musical ride on 22 November at Drum Theatre. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience an unforgettable evening with these two maestros.

Friday 22 November, 8.00pm.

Drum Theatre, corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Tickets from $40, book at drumtheatre.com.au/event.

·

·

Are you ready for Christmas?

Get organised for festive season at the Christmas Market hosted by Uniting AgeWell's Noble Park Community, 1312 Heatherton Road.

There'll be plenty of gift ideas, cards, candles, bric-a-brac, plants and more from 11am to 4pm, Wednesday 4 December. Cafe will also be open tea/coffee/soft drinks/snacks. Details: 9554 0700.

·

Seven Women fundraiser The Mulgrave Country Club is holding a fundraiser to raise money for Seven Women, an organisation that works to empower women in Nepal through training and education. The night will include beverages, canapes and a film screening of "Bringing to Light the Seven Women Story", which follows a group of Nepali women involved with the organisation over a period of four years.

Founder of Seven Women, Stephanie Woollard OAM, will be the guest speaker on the night.

Tuesday 26 November from 6.00 to 8.30pm at Mulgrave Country Club. Tickets are $50 per head with all proceeds going to the Seven Women organisation.Bookings can be made on Trybookings.com or call the club on 9582 4600 or visit the website, www.mulgravecc. com.au.

·

Book Launch A launch will be held for the new book, "If These Walls Could Talk - A History of the Noble Park Public Hall". The book covers the hall's history from 1917 through to now. The ceremony will dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

include the unveiling of a wall plaque in memory of the hall's late trustee, Adrian Barnard.

Saturday November 16th at 2.00pm at the Noble Park Public Hall, Paddy O'Donoghue Centre, 18 Buckley Street, Noble Park.

·

Probus Endeavour Hills Club The Endeavour Hills Probus Club is seeking retirees and semi - retirees to join an active and friendly group. Activities include a walking group, coffee mornings, ten-pin bowling, excursions and trivia nights.

Meet third Monday of each month (except December) at 10.00am at the Dandenong Club, corner of Heatherton Rd and Stud Rd, Dandenong North. Contact Chris 0423432878 or email: hart.chris64@yahoo.com.au.

·

Dinner with a VIEW Dandenong Evening VIEW Club will meet on Tuesday, 12 November, (second Tuesday of the month because of Cup Day) for dinner at the Dandenong RSL, 44-50 Clow Street, at 7.00pm.

Guest speaker is Vivienne Gallagher from Accessorize U. 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.

Bookings essential. Call 9795 1222.

·

Neighbourhood Watch Public Forum Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch presents a Public Forum, Information and Q & A session. Welcome all residents (Springvale, Noble Park, Keysborough, Bangholme & Dandenong).

Guest speaker is Sergeant Andrew Nisbet (Ballistics/Firearm Unit). He is a Senior Crime Scene Examiner also from Vic Pol Forensic Dept. & our local police.

Wednesday 20 November, 7.30 - 9.00pm, at Paddy O`Donoghue, 18 Buckley St Noble Park. More information on 0407325030.

·

Fun for retirees The Waverley Gardens Combined Probus Club is seeking new members from Dandenong North, Noble Park and Springvale North areas. Members meet for coffee and a guest speaker from 9.45am to noon on the last Tuesday of the month, and for other activities.

Where: Southern Community Centre, Southern Reserve, 27 Rupert Dr Mulgrave. Just off Police Rd. Call 9560 6046 or 9801 4049 for more information.

·

Patchwork quilting classes Patchwork Quilting classes at the Hallam Community Learning Centre have vacancies for term 4.

$12 for a 3 hour class on Tuesday mornings with our experienced tutor. Call us 9703 1688 for further details.

Help is on its way The Choir of Hard Knocks is coming to Bunjil Place. Voices of Casey and Play It Forward are hosting a concert singing out against Family Violence and Mental Health, featuring The Greater City of Dandenong Brass band, Voices of Casey, members of the Play It Forward Choirs, The SE Trill Seekers, MEN ALOUD and local singers.

The Concert will be held on Sunday November 24 at 3.00pm at Bunjil Place Theatre. Tickets are from $ 5 - $ 15 at www.bunjilplace.com.au or ph: 9709 9700. It's not too late if you wish to sing in the concert, call Paulien on 0412 741 195. The project is sponsored by the City of Casey and the Dandenong/Cranbourne RSL Sub Branch. A concert not to be missed.

·

Ross Noble - Humournoid What happens when pure comedy takes human form? What happens when a creature is created and bred to do stand up? Nobody knows because that isn't a thing. What is a thing is Ross Noble doing a show. You can come and see it. This is it. If you are looking for a good laugh, don't miss out this international comedy show that presented by famous English standup comedian and actor.

Saturday 29 February, 8.00pm. Drum Theatre, corner Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Tickets from $46.40. Book at drumtheatre.com.au/event.

·

Looking for company and activity?

The Dandenong Over 60's Club, a SubClub of the Dandenong Club, corner of Heatherton and Stud roads, meet every Monday at 12.30pm until 4pm. You can play Rumikin, cards or indoor bowls in a relaxed, jovial atmosphere and partake of afternoon tea with your fellow players.

Come and join our very friendly group.

For more information ring Tess Moss on 0427594051 or just come along and check us out.

·

Tuesday, 12 November, 2019

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STAR JOURNAL 17

NEWS

Fire threat looms large

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Assistant Chief Officer Trevor Owen warns residents to be prepared for summer fires. 198748 and remove leaves from roof gutters.

If not prepared, don't expect fireys to save your property - especially in a high fire-risk area on a severely hot day.

When fires are big and "running hard", the priority is to stop them getting bigger and impacting even more property, Mr Owen said.

"Areas of high fuel loads of trees and shrubs aren't defendable on a really bad day.

"You can't expect fire fighters and volunteers to put themselves in danger to protect a property that they are unlikely to save anyway.

"Last season, people's assumptions were that we would.

"People need to accept responsibility and do what they can to protect themselves, not assume that a fire truck will be there.

"You should plan for a fire truck not being there."

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lucky; had “It was very frightening, I was very commuDue to the immediate threat to the ahead I would’ve been hit. to give chase, pursu- I been going straight nity, police were authorisedMassive car he had “I looked behind and saw bits of ing the offenders into Cranbourne. the hit flying in the air, and I was thinking ‘God, I police, evade to clash kick In a further attempt to wrong side of High haven’t been killed and hope no one behind me speedsters crossed onto the things com.au real estate off headsplitting is killed.“ Street, disobeying red lights and Highway.

20 to 30 cars would on traffic on the South Gippsland SPORT with three Robin believes around Property Lift out The car was involved in a collision by the reckless driving. the Cardinia have been impacted vehicles, after which members of people just “There must have been so many males and one Highway Patrol apprehended two probably 20foot. affected by the accident; there were female, who attempted to flee on 30 cars at the intersection.

A rifle was found in the stolen Ford. the interof the “He must’ve been in the middle Robin Dzedins of Lynbrook, witnessed the traffic. He section because there was a gap in dramatic pursuit. going to“I was on South Gippy Highway was swerving like a maniac. at Settlement Continued on page 12 wards Cranbourne, turning left Hotel in Camms Road,“ she said. ✃ By ✃Brendan Rees ✃ L E T E

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hit flying in the air and I was thinking 'God, I Ms Dzedins said: "It was very frightening, I counts of obtain property by deception haven't been killed and hope no one behind A Casey resident has described the moment and was very lucky." a eight counts of theft. driver "hurtled" towards her after an alleged me is killed.'"

"I could see bits of car flying up into the air, A 22-year-old Pakenham man was charged stolen car wound its way through Hampton It came as police were led on a two-hour like I think mirrors or I don't know; door han- with aggravated Park on Monday 1 April. carjacking, four counts of wild pursuit which began about 12.30pm after dles, something like that," she added. theft of a motor vehicle, arson, two counts Robin Dzedins of Lynbrook said she was a four-wheel-drive was allegedly stolen of "There must have been so people just af- burglary, obtain from property by deception, two turning left into Camms Road from South Cranbourne. fected literally by the accident." counts of theft.

Gippsland Highway about 2.30pm when The vehicle was later set alight, police say, she Cardinia Highway Patrol arrested two men Both men were remanded to appear at the saw a car "swerving like a maniac." before the speedsters fled in a station wagon and a woman who attempted to flee on foot af- Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Tuesday 2 "I could only see it head on hurtling straight and later hijacked a ute ter their ute crashed into a truck on the South April. in Hampton Park. at me. e. Luckily I was turning left, had I been goThe ute crashed where police say the driver Gippsland Highway.

A 21-year21-year-old Dandenong woman was ing straight ahead I would've been hit," The driver, a 26-year-old male from Chel- charged with ttwo counts Ms was seen getting out carrying a rifle, which was of theft of a motor Dzedins said. tenham, tested positive to methamphet- vehicle. used to carjack a Ford ute in Carrum Downs.

"I thought he was going to hit the side of my amine and had his licence disqualified. disqualified He Witnesses say they saw the vehicle drivShe was bail bailed to appear at Frankston Magdriv car. ing i on the wrong side of the South Gippsland was charged with aggravated carjacking; istrates' s' Court on 3 September.

"I llooked behind and saw bits of car he had Highway in Cranbourne.

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As hard as it is, the best decision may be to leave earlier in the day. And to accept your property might not be there on your return, Mr Owen says.

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By mid-December, the fire season has well and truly kicked in the South East.

The region crisps up to the most perilous period in February-early March.

This summer will be a particularly nervous one for residents hit by the devastating Bunyip State Park fires in March.

Outside of the areas directly burnt, the fuel loads remains high in surrounding forest at Maryknoll, Garfield and Bunyip, Mr Owen said.

"Bunyip is still a risk for us.

"Anything that starts on that northern face of the forest will quickly spread."

Even in the suburbs, some of the parks and reserves carry high fuel loads of trees, shrubs and grass.

Mr Owen advised residents concerned by tall grasses and overhanging trees and shrubs in reserves to contact their local council or Forest Fire Management Victoria.

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Motor Vehicles

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STAR JOURNAL 21

SPORT

Dandenong legend Brett Forsyth has made an avalanche of runs for his beloved Panthers. 187072

Picture: ROB CAREW

Made to raise the blade

By Tyler Lewis At just 31, Brett Forsyth has already achieved the script of childhood dreams at the crease.

Behind a trademark application of zinc and a truckload of runs is a man many would argue is unlucky not to be wearing a different navy blue kit than the one he dons on a Saturday at Shepley Oval.

As a six-year-old, Forsyth was gifted a GrayNicolls Dynadrive for Christmas, the first bat of many, but one that begun the avalanche of runs.

Starting cricket to follow in the footsteps of his dad, it didn’t take long before that cricket bat was up in the air, registering his first senior century at 12.

“My dad used to captain some of the teams on synthetic - they often had people who could only play day one or two, or were late, at the races or at the TAB in those days, so I would sub field,” he said.

“From 10 or 11, I would play juniors in the morning and seniors in the afternoon - my junior form was good and I guess one day it just carried over.

“The other team thought it was humorous for a while - this little kid was scoring runs - but after a while they were heckling me and I was giving it back.

“I was pretty happy about it because at that age you are pretty competitive and none of the other guys in the team had done that and I remember batting with a 14-year-old who made 50, we were happy to win the game but to set ourselves apart from others at that age,” Forsyth said.

From the first three-figure milestone, Forsyth was immediately on the Panthers’ radar first pulling on the Dandenong threads within the next three years, along with that other navy blue uniform.

“Officially, I crossed over when I was 15, mainly keeping and batting in the twos, and then in the following season was my debut season in the ones when I was 16,“ he said.

“I missed under-13s state, I didn’t really try out, I made 15s, then Australian under-16s, and we toured India.

“I made Vic 16s, 17s, 19s, was pretty unlucky not to make the World Cup squad in 19s in my opinion, based on the performances during the tournament.”

Playing in the Victorian second XI (Toyota Futures XI), Forsyth averaged 50.5 for the big V, but despite scoring consistent runs at Victorian Premier Cricket level, the opening batsman 22 STAR JOURNAL

|

still couldn’t earn a contract extension - even after a knock of 46 in his final dig for Victoria.

“I got my first rookie contract when I was 19,” he said. “(In my last game) I remember the coach said ‘we are playing on a wicket with a slope, the bowler won’t be able to swing it up the hill’, I said ‘righto no worries’.

“First innings, I was feeling good, I think I only made two or something and I left a ball that was shaping up the hill and got clean bowled.

“I knew it was going to be one of my last games, so in the second innings I tried to go out with a bang and tried to score a few runs, ran myself out and that was the last innings I had.

“I think when you are in a state squad or in an industry that is cut-throat, you get the feeling whether you have a cross through your name or whether you have a free run at it and are being backed to do well.

“For me, that was the last year of my contract. It had been made clear to me through actions, not words, that I was on borrowed time.

“The last year on my contract, after Christmas I looked at my options.

“As a contracted player, if you are being left out of second XI teams that you were previously in, at training, not batting in the nets against the bowlers, there is no positive reinforcement of what you are doing.

“For me it was the best option to exit before the exit came. I would still train once a week and was still putting my hand up for selection, playing first XI cricket for Dandenong, I mean that year we made the final and (I was) leading run scorer for the state but my contracted wasn’t renewed.

“I kind of knew the writing was on the wall.“ While knowing the end of his contract was near, Forsyth felt the mental impact the nonrenewal of his contract wasn’t as tough due to his maturity and the family of support he had at Shepley.

“For me it was positive - the fourth year of my contract - because I was back playing with my friends, mentally there was no challenges, it was the year before when I was in unfamiliar surroundings and not making runs,” he said.

“I went to Prahran to play a season under the encouragement of some of the people at Cricket Victoria.

“I changed clubs, it didn’t work out well, I had a tough season, (and) I think I made eight ducks and I didn’t make many runs.

Tuesday, 12 November, 2019

“I was dropped from seconds that year and fell away. You can look at it in two ways - that wasn’t great but then I picked myself up.

“Mentally it gets easier as you get older you realise it isn’t life or death.

“When you are younger, trying to make a career out of it and a lot of your self-worth is in performing, when you get older you just realise it is a big part of who you are and isn’t the be all and end all.”In recent times, Forsyth has been a regular name at the top of the order in the Premier Cricket team of the year, and most recently he became the first ever Dandenong player to claim the Ryder Medal in season 2018/19. But, still, no state recall.

“Some other people around me would say that - would say I was unlucky,” he said.

“I had a conversation in the off season of a few people in the state system and that was the message, that I have been unlucky.

“I know there was conversations whether to bring me in or not, whether they would give me an opportunity, I guess unlucky is the word.“ For Dandenong, the reigning Ryder Medallist has a handy knack of turning a century into a massive knock, and did so for Victoria in 2010 when he notched an unbeaten 158.

The urge to push on came from an unexpected conversation with a club great after a precious milestone.

“I guess as an opening batter, you are going to miss out a lot of the time - (but) hopefully not, hopefully you do your job,” he said.

“But sometimes you are going to so when you get in you want to make it count and go big.

“I think when you are chasing a big score, which I think a few of those hundreds were, if you get out there is no guarantee you are going to win, you have to make sure you keep going, that personal milestone is ticked off but the team one hasn’t been so that’s what drives you.

“My first Premier hundred was against Camberwell. I think I was 18, I got to 100 pretty quickly, not easily, but quickly - quicker than I do now.

“I went 100, then four, three, out. Warren Ayres, who was a really good mentor, he said ‘what are you doing?’, I said ‘what do you mean? I just got my first 100’, he said ‘yeah but the team still needs runs’.

“He told me ‘that is silly because as a young opening batter you are going to miss out, when you get in and get a 100 you need to maximise that because at the end of the year when they look at who has got runs, who are we going to

pick they are going to look at numbers, you need to be more selfish in terms of that, but unselfish in terms of when you get in you make them get you out, don’t give it away’.”

Forsyth along with his skipper and opening partner Tom Donnell have been a nightmare to bowl to since they became a cemented pair at the top. In the time they have spent together at the crease, the two have put on over 50 on 33 occasions and over 100 16 times, including the club record of 241 for the first wicket.

Donnell is a person who Forsyth feels at home with out in the middle and it all began for Forsyth watching the now Panthers skipper do what he does best when he was only a teenager.

“Our methods are different, I think I play with more of a straight bat, he more horizontal,” he said.

“In that there is kind of two different methods going against the opposition bowlers at the same time, which is handy.

“We have a good understanding of what the other is trying to do, we are both passionate about doing well for our club, we have a lot of things that tie us together and make us complement each other.

“I have known him for the best part of 1718 years, we went to school together, I guess I looked up to him.

“We played a competition, he was captain, I was in Year 9 or 10 and he was in Year 12. We ended up beating Scotch in the final, he made 140 and we enjoyed a few celebrations and from that moment on he took me under his wing.

“I was at Dandenong first and he crossed over. I think probably one of the reasons he crossed over was Warren Ayres, but he knew a lot of the younger players that lived in the area.

“Since that moment on we have enjoyed each other’s company on and off the field. It is still a great thrill being able to open the batting with someone who is so good at what they do.

“They (opposition) think he is a flashy player, (but) some of his best innings have been in finals, under pressure, batting all day, being hit, which is not what he is renowned for.

“If you can do it two ways, which he can, I think he has one of our fastest 100s as well.

Cam (Forsyth) and I, and a few others think his best innings is against Carlton, they had Ryan Sidebottom leading a really good attack on a dicey wicket, and he batted all day for 95 not out and got hit a few times.

“Anyone that can do that and then get a 100 off 50 balls is just a really good player.“ dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Final step is the hardest

By Tyler Lewis

Nick Cox addressing his midfield group when he was a line coach in Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS 2018. 182660 childhood dreams comes the difficult moments of prospects who haven’t heard their name called.

“A lot of the mentality of the kids and the parents these days think if they don’t get drafted they have failed as people,” Cox said.

“It is a conversation we had at the start of this season - we had an orientation day, we spoke about it isn’t the be all and end all to get into the system.

“It is hard, not easy, for an example, Mitch Riordan.

“At the start of the year (he) was touted as a top 20 pick, (and) he didn’t get picked up.

“He was lucky enough to get picked up midseason this year.

“They are really tough situations - the kids feel like they haven’t achieved obviously what they wanted and they have failed.

“But all we can do is assure them that being a good VFL footballer or local footballer is sometimes a real big tick in their box.

“The conversations are hard - unfortunately they all don’t get there.”

Making the move from NAB League football

Hayden Young's professionalism has been compared to that of former number one overall pick, Jacob Weitering. 195934

to the elite level can be a big step for some in terms of professionalism, but Cox visualises a lot of attributes in a player in this year’s crop who was a previous number one draft pick.

“It is important we tell them to be professional with their time, sleep, food, drink, everything they are doing,” he said.

“But is really driven by the player, it is a tough environment. “(Jacob) Weitering was like that - he had a lot of pressure on him, and I think he stood out to be one who was a real role model to everyone around him.

“You see them straight away when they come into the system; you hear what they have been doing at junior level, how professional they are, how driven they are.

“This year Hayden Young has been really good at doing that - he knew what he wanted to get out of his football from the word go.”

The first round of the NAB League draft will commence on 28 November, with the remaining rounds on the following night where Cox and his Stingrays will be hoping to hear as many Dandenong names called as possible.

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Holding the last stepping stone in place for a NAB League prospect on the way to an AFL career is no easy task.

Shifting magnets, setting up cones, and addressing the group at the intervals on gameday are the seen tasks, but behind the scenes is where most important actions take place.

For current Dandenong Stingrays coach Nick Cox, his coaching career at the club emerged in an unfamiliar way.

“I actually got a role as the runner,” he said.

“My first job was the game day runner, and then it evolved from there.

“Graeme Yeats was the coach then. I got a role as a runner, the last couple of games I was lucky enough to get an opportunity from Graeme, and he brought me into the coaching box to watch the midfield and a few other things on the ground.

“From that, Craig Black was appointed the year after and Craig gave me the midfield role.”

Once a tough footballer, himself, Cox encourages his players to play a physical brand of footy, which is now getting noticed by the important people.

“You have to be really careful - everybody has different levels of bravery and toughness,” he said.

“The ones you see putting their heads over the ball all the time aren’t always the toughest because it has just become natural, but the ones who have to actually think about it might be tougher than you think.

“It is a fine line these days, going out and saying ‘we need to be physical, play on the edge’, because people take that the wrong way.

“The teams I coach, I expect nothing else than them to play on the edge, be a physical team that is hard to play against, that isn’t being unfair or dirty, it is just making sure you are competing as well as you possibly can.

“I think the thing with it is, what these AFL clubs like is, they like the competitive nature, physicality is big, they like the fact the Stingrays boys that I have coached this year have become a bit more combative when it comes to the physical side of things.”

Within the role is a strong communication with talent manager Darren Flanigan, and the crucial conversations with AFL clubs.

“They (AFL clubs) keep a keen eye on things, at the huddle all the time, asking questions,” he said.

“We sat down with most clubs at the start of the year - they went through the players that they had some sort of interest with.

“We gave them feedback on them and what they are like as a person. The last few weeks I have had eight clubs I have spoken to and Darren has spoken to a few as well.

“It becomes really important that you tell them the truth, be honest with them because they know anyway.

“The scary thing is you have these kids’ faith in your hands to a certain extent - it is daunting in a way.”

With the joys of getting kids to fulfil their

Dandenong Stadium - 270 Stud Road Dandenong 3175 Phone: 9794 7192 dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

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STAR JOURNAL 23