Dandenong Star Journal - 25th February 2020

DANDENONG

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Tuesday, 25 February, 2020

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Report remains secret

Sister Cities rethink

Casey Council sacked

Siddle’s fine career

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SPORT

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Bold fashion In what's believed to be a state first, Wooranna Park Primary School unveiled an inclusive Koorie T-shirt as part of its uniform on 21 February.

The T-shirt was designed by student Mark, pictured with principal Ray Trotter, Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti and the school council's ThayHorn Yim. The design, including the school's traditional orange, tells the story of the community coming together as one.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Waste fuels fears A proposed waste-to-energy plant in Dandenong South has been met by an overwhelming public backlash from hundreds of residents over air quality and health concerns.

The Environment Protection Authority and the plant's proponent Great Southern Waste have agreed to hold off the plant's assessment - so to stage a public conference to respond to the "high community interest".

Residents - as close as 1.4 kilometres from the plant - have written letters and signed peti-

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tions, decrying the 70 Ordish Road site's proximity to Dandenong Creek, schools, colleges, kindergartens, places of worship and homes.

A 280-signature petition's covering letter stated homes were already impacted by two waste-related facilities, an organics garden and a commercial and industrial waste facility.

"Local residents have already made numerous complaints and reports to local council and EPA regarding the weird smells around our area.

"This (waste-to-energy plant) will definitely make the situation worse."

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A Keysborough South resident wrote that the proposal would "literally shatter mine and so many other families' dreams".

"How can our kids still go to the local parks where there is air pollution, weird smells?"

Another wrote: "I appreciate and encourage the new technology however the location must be reselected. It cannot be built so close to our homes!"

On 3 March, the EPA will hold a '20b' community conference to "better understand the views and concerns of the community and stakeholders".

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Independently chaired, the meeting will discuss "possible resolutions" to public objections, the EPA stated.

The EPA has also sought extra technical details from the plant's proponent Great Southern Waste The list of 28 items included details on air emissions, odours, accidental emissions, air monitoring and auditing of waste fed into the plant.

Great Southern Waste is required to respond by 2 March.

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NEWS

Tot deportation risk

By Cam Lucadou-Wells An 18-month-old toddler may be deported after his parents were jailed for growing a commercial quantity of cannabis.

Trong Cuong Vu, 35, and his co-accused partner were raided by police at their home in May 2017.

Police then searched a factory in Lascelles Street Springvale where 888 cannabis plants weighing 400 kilograms were seized as part of a hydroponic set-up.

"That is a large commercial quantity by any standards," sentencing judge John Smallwood stated on 10 February.

"There were matters contained within that factory that were linked to you but I am very careful not to sentence you for the size of that crop, albeit a very considerable one."

Vu also pleaded guilty to theft of electricity,

commercial cultivation of cannabis and trafficking after he and his partner's home in Miner's Rest was raided by police in January 2018.

A "sophisticated" hydroponic crop was found in three rooms, with an electrical bypass.

Police seized 54 mainly large, mature cannabis plants weighing a total 129 kilograms as well as five kilos of dry cannabis.

Vu and his partner had stolen nearly $20,000 of electricity "Custody is obviously the only sentence available and it must be one of significant proportions," Mr Smallwood said.

Mr Vu, with no prior convictions, seemed to have gambling issues - common to many people in his situation, the judge noted.

His prospects of rehabilitation - or risk of reoffending - were "very much up to you".

Mr Vu, who was born in Vietnam, was in no danger of being deported, Mr Smallwood noted.

However his 18-month-old son - who was born by Vu's co-accused partner while she was in custody - "may well be" deported.

The judge took into account that the possible deportation of Vu's son would be a "matter of real stress for you".

The partner, an illegal Australian resident who played a "lesser role" in the crop enterprise, faced "certain" deportation after her two-and-a-half-year prison term, Mr Smallwood said.

Vu was jailed for three years and nine months - including a non-parole period of two years and three months.

He had served 600 days in pre-sentence custody.

Five injured in Cheltenham Road crash

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Five people were injured when a car flipped in a two-vehicle crash on the corner of Cheltenham and Perry roads, Keysborough on the afternoon of Sunday 16 February.

Emergency crews were called to the crash between a Landrover Discovery and an overturned Toyota Camry about 3.25pm.

The Camry driver, a 32-year-old Dandenong North woman, was taken to The Alfred hospital in a stable condition.

Three passengers in the Camry, a 16-yearold girl, a 36-year-old woman and a 58-yearold woman were taken to Dandenong Hospital with minor injuries.

A 13-year-old boy from the Camry was treated by paramedics at the scene.

The Landrover driver, a 67-year-old Bentleigh East man, and his passenger, a 61-year-old Bentleigh East woman, were uninjured.

Police are investigating the crash.

Any information or dash cam footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Emergency crews at the scene of the overturned Camry. 204821

Doug West, right, with the Sandown Cobras All Abilities football team in 2019. 191924 Picture: CAM LUCADOU-WELLS

Cobras pit their wares for success Sandown Cobras are on the hunt for their third premiership in five years.

Having played in the past four FIDA League grand finals, the Cobras are seeking male and female players aged 16 to 40-plus with a disability to continue their glittering success.

In recent years, players have also gained state selection.

Coach Doug West says the Edinburgh Reserve-based club is like a family.

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."

The season of modified-rules AFL is played on Sundays between April-September.

Training runs on Mondays and Wednesdays, 5pm-6.30pm at Edinburgh Reserve, Springvale.

Details: Doug West on 0407 837 667 or Hannah Sacks 0402 012 513 or hannahsacks@hotmail.com

Syndicate’s $1m payday Emergency crews at the crash scene. 204821

A Toyota Camry is propped up by emergency crews. 204821

Five people were inside a Camry that crashed with a Landrover on Cheltenham and Perry roads Keysborough. 204821 2 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 25 February, 2020

A syndicate of four retail workers have shared a $1.1 million TattsLotto prize from a ticket bought at Noble Park.

The anonymous winners had taken out a division one prize - plus 12 division three and 15 division four combos - for a total of $1,117,167.92.

One from the syndicate heard the news more than a week after the 8 February draw.

She had been on holiday without mobile reception at the time.

“It wasn’t until I landed at the airport that I got the message we had won, so I came straight into work to celebrate with them and confirm the prize.

“They’ve been celebrating all week so it’s great we can now celebrate together.”

She was looking forward to spoiling her kids and grandkids with the spoils.

“The others have said they will use their share to do up their homes and buy a new car.”

The entries were bought from Noble Park News & Tatts in Douglas Street Noble Park.

The owner Tanya Sang was “surprised” and “excited” to sell a division one winner for the first time since taking over the business two years ago.

“The shop has been here for over 60 years so it has sold plenty during its time.

“Our customers think our shop brings them luck and we always say that positive thinking like that is how you win - you never know when it’s going to happen.”

Pictures: GARY SISSONS dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

IN BRIEF Cyclist robbed on Clow Street

Report still secret

By Cam Lucadou-Wells The state's health department has tried to suppress a report that allegedly led to the closure of I Cook Foods' factory in Dandenong South in February last year.

I Cook Foods alleged it was wrongfully blamed, shut down and ruined over the death of a hospital patient.

It led to the retrenching of its staff and the destruction of the 33-year-old business that provided packaged food for Meals-on-Wheels and hospitals.

For 10 months, I Cook Foods lawyers had unsuccessfully sought the report and related documents through discovery and also 'freedom-of-information'.

It has spent an estimated $250,000 to bring a Supreme Court of Victoria case to get access to the document.

Access was granted on a strict confidential basis by Supreme Court Associate Justice Melissa Davy on 17 February.

On the eve of the 3 February hearing, the Department of Health and Human Services offered up the documents on a strict confidential basis.

I Cook Foods rejected the offer.

In court, I Cook Foods argued that acting Chief Health Officer of Victoria, Brett Sutton, had "no evidence" that the factory's food was "unsafe" when he issued his closure order on 22 February 2019.

Dr Sutton stated in the order he was satisfied from the "report of an authorised officer of the Department's Food Safety Unit" that the factory's food was "unsafe".

The patient had died in late January.

On 11 February, a lab report found listeria of unreported concentrations on smallgoods

I Cook Foods director Ian Cook has brought Supreme Court action to access a report from the Department of Health and Human Services.

202497 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS found at the factory.

A further report on 28 February found the listeria was within safe food-code standards.

Lawyers for I Cook Foods argued that Dr Sutton shut down the factory before a DHHS officer inspected the premises, and that a live slug was allegedly planted during a Greater Dandenong Council officer's inspection on 18 February. The officer had reported 37 corrective actions for the "unclean and unsanitary" premises in a "state of disrepair".

I Cook Foods argued that Dr Sutton may have been "tainted" by bias due to the DHHS and Greater Dandenong Council's interest in a rival company Community Chef.

Arguing for strict confidentiality, Deputy Chief Health Officer Angela Bone stated that in an unfolding public health crisis, "issues, concerns and risks need to be raised, discussed and considered unhindered and actions need to be taken, without fear of undue scrutiny".

She said otherwise there was a risk of "uninformed or ill-informed third parties making public comment and criticism of individuals and actions".

"This in turn could limit the reporting of incidents to DHHS and therefore limit the impact of DHHS' actions to protect the community, as well as undermining the community's confidence in DHHS." Associate Justice Daly found in favour of a "confidentiality" regime.

"I do accept there is a public interest in encouraging, or at least not impeding, the frank and timely exchange of information during the course of public crises," Assoc Justice Daly stated.

"I accept that requiring disclosure of such communications in an uncontrolled manner may have a chilling effect upon such communications."

Assoc Justice Daly said this carried more weight than the department's concern about criticism from "uninformed or ill-informed" third parties.

Mr Cook said the DHHS's confidentiality regime would restrict access to just him and his lawyers. It would exclude Mr Cook's wife, brother and son who also work at the business.

The question of costs had not yet been decided by Assoc Justice Daly, he said.

Assoc Justice Daly noted that Dr Sutton revoked a varied closure order on 28 March 2019, but it was "too late" for the plaintiff.

"By that time, it had lost all of its contracts.

All of its staff have been retrenched, and the plaintiff says it has lost a business generating over $6 million in revenue per annum."

She also noted that Greater Dandenong Council had dropped all 96 food-safety charges against Mr Cook and I Cook Foods prior to a Magistrates' Court hearing in October.

"The presence of the slug at the plaintiff's premises was the basis of two of the (dropped) charges," Assoc Justice Daly noted.

Waste plant fuels community concerns From page 1 The proposed gasification plant is estimated to process 100,000 tonnes a year of non-recyclable municipal solid waste, and commercial and industrial waste.

The plant will create a net reduction of 142,000 tonnes of carbon-dioxide equivalent emissions - or greenhouse gases, according to Great Southern Waste.

The plant would supply about 7.9 Megawatts of electricity to the grid - enough to power 7000 homes. About 1.4 Megawatts will be generated to power the facility.

Half of the waste fuel is expected to be organics and food scraps, Great Southern Waste stated.

The submission has a long list of excluded material such as prescribed industrial waste, asbestos, building materials, radioactive waste, chemical waste, medical waste, carcasses and residential 'hard waste'.

Great Southern Waste Technologies director Bill Keating said, contrary to objections, there would be little pollution from the plant.

He has described it as "world's best prac-

tice" and "comfortably compliant" with European Union standards, which are adopted in Victoria.

Mr Keating acknowledged Keysborough residents' concerns about health impacts, which he hoped to address during the conference.

He noted that no objections had been lodged by neighbouring businesses, Greater Dandenong Council or 'green' groups.

According to GSWT's modelling, even at maximum expected emission levels, there would be "negligible" human health impact and no pollution guideline breaches, Mr Keating said.

"It tells us that we can operate there and operate well within the levels of adverse human impact."

Homes as close as 1.4 kilometres from the plant would receive "very little impact at all".

They were outside the buffer area for the site's industrial-2 zone, one of the few areas of greater Melbourne where the plant could be built, Mr Keating said.

"In Europe, some of these facilities are 250-

300 metres from homes, schools and council buildings.

"After 25 years of operating, you can't find long-term detriment to any people living near these facilities.

"That gives us confidence in what we're doing."

In November, Greater Dandenong councillors rescinded its permit approval for building works.

The council had planned to wait for the EPA's verdict before reconsidering the proposal. However due to the delay extending beyond the statutory time-frame, GWST has appealed to VCAT to decide the matter.

Cr Maria Sampey, who led the rescission, said councilors were being ignored by the proponents.

"I want to have the full results (from the EPA) before I make a decision."

The community conference is at City of Greater Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong on 3 March, 6pm-9pm.

To register attendance, go to https://engage.vic.gov.au/epa-works-approvals/GSWT

A 50-year-old rider has been robbed of his bicycle in Clow Street, Dandenong on Thursday 13 February.

Three males approached the victim and demanded his bike as he rode near a Hungry Jack's outlet about 2.30pm.

The rider was punched in the mouth during the attack. He suffered minor facial injuries.

One of the robbers rode away on the bike in a southerly direction on Foster Street.

Two of the offenders were described as Pacific Islander appearance, one as Caucasian.

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

Attempted robbery in Dandenong A 27-year-old man has been punched in the face during an attempted robbery near the corner of Dandenong Street and Cheltenham Road, Dandenong.

The male attacker struck the man then demanded property near a McDonalds outlet about 10.20pm on Wednesday 12 February.

The offender left empty-handed in an easterly direction, police say.

He was with a male and female who didn't appear to be complicit with the attack.

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

Boy stabbed in phone-shop brawl Six teenagers have been arrested after the stabbing of a boy in a mobile phone shop in Springvale on Saturday 15 February.

A large group of 15-to-16-year-old boys allegedly followed another group of boys into the Springvale Road shop about 4.20pm.

During a confrontation, one of the boys was stabbed several times to the torso. He suffered serious, non-life threatening injuries, police say.

Police arrested six teens shortly afterwards.

A 16-year-old Dandenong boy and a 15-year-old Dandenong boy were remanded in custody.

Both were charged with intentionally causing injury and affray.

Teen arrested following affray Southern Metro Region Crime Team detectives have arrested a sixth person in relation to an ongoing investigation into the circumstances of an affray which occurred at the Lyndhurst on Sunday 9 February.

A 16-year-old Pakenham boy was arrested in relation to the incident on Wednesday 19 February in Lyndhurst.

He was charged with five offences including theft, affray and bail offences.

The boy was remanded to appear at a childrens' court at a later date.

Police are not looking for any other offenders.

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Tuesday, 25 February, 2020

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STAR JOURNAL 3

NEWS

Flying foxes survive in heat

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Sean O'Reilly receives a gift from a member of a delegation from Xuzhou, China in 2015. 145203 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Sister Cities get rethink

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong will explore whether to replace its 24-year-old 'sister city' relationship with Xuzhou, China with a "modern" 'friendship city' model.

A council report will look at the cost and benefits of the Xuzhou ties since 1996 as the cost-benefits of the "more flexible" Friendship Cities.

It will also look at "leveraging" State Government or City of Melbourne's overseas engagements.

Cr Sean O'Reilly, who led the motion at a 10 February council meeting, argued it was timely to re-examine the Sister City relationship.

It was regarded by the public as "anachronistic" and of "dubious" value, he said.

"Although relatively low expenditure, the public is increasingly dubious of the value of Sister City relationships," his motion stated.

The Sister City arrangement locked in regular visits to and from Xuzhou - a routine that

hadn't changed since 2017.

On the other hand, Friendship City agreements carried less obligation for regular visits between the countries, were more "purposedriven" and had "clearly defined and measurable outcomes", Cr O'Reilly argued.

Cr Maria Sampey, in support, said given Greater Dandenong's multiculturalism, there was scope for trade ties with many more countries.

In opposition, Cr Tim Dark said Sister City or Friendship City relationships were a "junket" - "however you polish it up".

He said the council should better capitalise on VECCI and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade delegations, visiting trade missions such as from the Netherlands, or seize on a post-Brexit UK and EU for trade opportunities.

Cr Youhorn Chea, in voting against, said the Sister City ties with Xuzhou should be retained.

However Friendship City ties with other cities should be explored, he said.

Despite killer heat waves and bushfires, Doveton's grey-headed flying fox colony is clinging strongly in numbers.

Dr Rodney van der Ree organises monthly 'bat counts' on the Dandenong Creek banks.

Up to 10 volunteers click their counters as thousand of bats rouse and flap away into the night.

"It's a great spectacle.

"I've never known anyone leaving one of those counts disappointed."

The colony is maintaining a steady 40,000 bats - equal to Melbourne's other colony at Yarra Bend Park, Kew. Despite perching together in great numbers, the bats are listed as nationally vulnerable. Nationally, their population is an estimated 680,000 as of 2015 - a small fraction of their flocks a century ago.

They are regarded as being at particular risk due to climate change. In Kew, 5000 perished in a three-day heatwave in December.

Other threats come from being injured in fruit-tree nets and the loss of habitat.

Dr van der Ree says the Doveton bats fortunately didn't seem to suffer heat stress - perhaps protected by the dense mid-storey canopies.

The mammals have become a fixture since flocking to the creek in 2014. Though 'fixture' might not be the right word.

In winter, many bats fly to warmer, northern climes and return south in summer.

Surprisingly, a flying fox monitoring program has discovered that the same bats don't necessarily return to their camps, Dr van der Ree said.

The Doveton bats could opt for perches at Kew, Geelong or Bendigo, for instance.

The bats are largely silent during the day, roosting up-side down from the tree-tops.

Then in a flurry of chirps and squawks at dusk, they stir en masse before flying in all directions up to 80 kilometres.

On their nocturnal travels, they fossick on native flowering gumtrees and other fruits across greater Melbourne, the Dandenong Ranges and Mornington Peninsula.

They are regarded as the widest-travelling cross-pollinators in Australia, forming a vital function for healthy forests, Dr van der Ree said.

The impact of eastern Australia's bushfires and the great habitat losses will be felt by fruit

The Doveton flying-fox camp. 204655 Pictures: GARY SISSONS

A roosing grey-headed flying fox at the Dandenong Creek colony. 204655 bats for perhaps 20 years, he said.

"Eucalypts tend not to flower abundantly every year, but every third, fourth or fifth year - it will be then that the bats miss that food source."

Dr van der Ree, who helped recolonise fruit bats from Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne in the early 2000s, said the flying foxes are some of the smartest animals for their size.

Their communication skills and innate sense for finding flowering trees was proof of their intelligence.

"How else could up to 100,000 bats descend on a location within a week or two of a flowering event, without being able to talk to each other?"

To find out more, go to the Melbourne Mega Bat Count website at https://megabatcount. wordpress.com/

Factory fined $60,000 over ‘inexplicible’ amputation A Dandenong factory has been fined $60,000 after a worker's fingers were amputated on a spinning saw blade.

Oliver Projects Pty Ltd was found guilty in Dandenong Magistrates' Court on 6 February of failing to provide a safe system of work and failing to provide instruction.

The court heard that the cabinet maker was using a saw to cut sections of melamine for the installation of a range hood.

After cutting a panel, the worker attempted

to push an off-cut into a waste bin while the blade was still spinning.

His hand caught the blade. Three of his fingers were amputated just above the first knuckle.

They were later surgically reattached.

The court heard Oliver Projects had previously engaged an OHS advisor to develop a safe operating procedure for the panel saw but had failed to implement it or use it to train staff.

Brief instructions set out in an exercise book attached to the saw were inadequate.

They didn't require workers to turn off the saw and wait for the blade to stop before removing off-cuts.

WorkSafe health-and-safety executive director Julie Nielsen said the life-changing injury could have easily been avoided if the company had provided workers with proper training.

"It's incredibly frustrating to know this

PHILLIP ISLAND

company had been provided with an appropriate safety procedure for the saw but inexplicably failed to pass this information on to its workers," Ms Nielsen said.

"WorkSafe will not hesitate to prosecute employers who fail to ensure the safety of their workers is always their first priority."

Oliver Projects was also ordered to pay costs of $4,248.

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Tuesday, 25 February, 2020

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Australian-born criminals overwhelmingly outnumber those born in other countries. 205130

Crim shame

By Danielle Kutchel Australian-born criminals outnumber offenders from Sudan and South Sudan, 11 times to one.

That's according to new data supplied exclusively to Star News Group by the Crime Statistics Agency (CSA).

In the 12 months from October 2018 to September 2019, 3923 recorded alleged offender incidents were committed by Australian-born people, compared to 353 by people born in Sudan or South Sudan.This was followed by 278 born in New Zealand.

The number of recorded alleged offender incidents committed by an Australian-born offender has increased since the 2017-18 reporting period, up 9.4 per cent.

This is compared to the recorded number committed by those born in Sudan or South Sudan, which decreased by 11.3 per cent.

The data does not indicate the outcome of any investigation.

According to the CSA, an alleged offender incident is an incident involving one or more offences to which an individual, business or organisation has been linked as an alleged offender.

For the purposes of reporting crime statistics, an alleged offender incident involves only one offender (where two individuals have participated in the same incident two alleged offender incidents will be recorded); can involve one or more victims; and can involve offences that occur over a period of time but have been processed by Victoria Police as the same incident.

Greater Dandenong Local Area Commander Inspector Mark Langhorn said criminality is not "predicated on nationality, race, culture, sex, gender or age."

"While Victoria Police and the African community has acknowledged a small group of young people are committing criminal acts,

we know the vast majority of the African community, irrespective of their ages, are law abiding people," he said.

"However, we want to be clear that police will not tolerate those who break the law or engage in anti-social and violent behaviour that puts the safety of others at risk.

"We are working hard to prevent crime on a day to day basis with police committed to holding offenders to account."

Police in the Greater Dandenong area have implemented a number of initiatives aimed at reducing youth crime over the past several months, including the Embedded Youth Outreach Program (EYOP) which began in late August 2018.

The EYOP aims to address and reduce youth crime and sees police paired with Youth Support and Advocacy Service (YSAS) youth workers in areas where youth offending and antisocial behaviour has increased.

Together, youth workers and police identify services that can help young people address family issues, alcohol and drug abuse, unemployment, mental health and disengagement from school.

Police from the Southern Metro Division 3, which includes Greater Dandenong, are also involved in the Community Leaders Outreach Initiative which sees members of the South Sudanese and Pacific Islander communities undertake proactive patrols at Fountain Gate Shopping Centre.

The patrols are community led and supported by police who are rostered on at the time, and aim to engage with young people in the community, identify issues and opportunities facing them, and develop relationships.

Just over one per cent of unique offenders in Victoria are born in Sudan and South Sudan, compared to 71 per cent born in Australia, followed by 2.3 per cent born in New Zealand and 1.6 percent born in India.

More housing for victims

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Wayss chief executive Elizabeth Thomas backs the head-leasing model which is creating more homes for families fleeing violence.

- with the hope of then taking over the lease.

The subsidy allows a woman escaping a financially abusive relationship to get on top of their finances.

Ms Thomas said head-leasing was "an extension of the housing first model which focuses on getting people housed in safe, secure accommodation and then supporting them to stay housed by access to dedicated case-management".

12441918-DV09-20

Sixteen homes using an innovative headleasing model have opened for women and children escaping family violence in Greater Dandenong.

Housing and family violence support service Wayss has added the homes to its existing 14 residences funded by the Department of Health and Human Services head-lease program.

That's 30 homes for families in need in the past 12 months.

Under the scheme, Wayss accesses private rental stock - which will result in "incredibly positive outcomes", Wayss chief executive Elizabeth Thomas said.

"That's 30 families that now have the chance to build a positive rental history to support future tenancy applications - it's access to a critical first step that they may not have been able to take without this program.

"Stable housing is the first step in empowering a family violence victim survivor to take control of their life and recover.

"Once the family has secure accommodation, we can then coordinate specialist support services to help the woman and her children rebuild their lives."

Wayss conducts full safety and risk assessments of properties and works closely with real estate agents before families move in.

Under head-leasing, tenants pay 33 per cent of the rent for the first six months, and 66 per cent until the end of the 12-month tenancy

Tuesday, 25 February, 2020

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STAR JOURNAL 5

NEWS

No apologies, no remorse

By Brendan Rees They choked back tears and patted each other on the back as they bid farewell for the final time - but there wasn’t a moment of remorse or apology, drawing the ire of ratepayers.

Casey Councillors gathered with downcast faces as they sat in the council chambers for their final public meeting on Tuesday 18 February - just hours after the State Government passed laws to sacking each one of them.

Police were in attendance patrolling Bunjil Place, while outside, Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association (CRRA) member Brendan Browne held a sign above his head which read: “They just don’t get it! Please don’t come back in 2024”.

In front of the packed public gallery, Casey mayor Susan Serey spoke of council’s achievements but maintained there was “no concrete evidence of underperformers”.

“I’m the youngest mayor to serve the City of Casey and as a councillor for the past seven years I would like to thank the Edrington Ward for their continued confidence in me. I’m deeply honoured to have served our amazing community,” Cr Serey said, fighting back tears.

“I wanted to thank Casey’s community, organisations, businesses and volunteers for their timeless work in our community”.

Casey deputy mayor Gary Rowe described the monitor’s report - which found clear evidence of significant governance failures at the council - as “bland” and “none of them qualified jumping the barrier for dismissal of council”.

A resident from the gallery hurled abuse as Cr Rowe finished his speech, shouting: “It’s a bit late”.

“Have some respect!” a woman shouted back.

Cr Amanda Stapledon reflected on her time with council “with a great sense of gratitude”

Cr Wayne Smith and Cr Damien Rosario come to terms with their axing. 204924

Embattled Casey councillor Geoff Ablett fronts the public at the meeting. 204924

Casey Council CEO Glenn Patterson remained silent throughout the meeting. 204924

“It is with great sadness that we are no longer going to be councillors,” the former threetime Casey mayor said.

Cr Rosalie Crestani thanked her family, fellow councillors and council officers, and the community “for their unbending support and faith” before reading from the Bible.

Embattled sacked councillor Geoff Ablett, a former Hawthorn premiership player, said it had been a “very frustrating and an emotional and draining time for me” but thanked the galley for their “good behaviour“ in allowing him to speak.

“Nothing would’ve in my mind resulted in the actions that were taken today,” Cr Ablett said, who is one of the key figures in the Inde-

pendent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission inquiry.

“It’s not easy being in a public interviewing situation ... I’ve cooperated fully as other councillors who are yet to come, will as well,” he said.

“Nothing deserved the outcome that we got to today”.

Cr Damien Rosario addressed the crowd from a podium saying he didn’t wish to resign because he wanted to stay “until the end“ to “honour my oath” in serving the city.

“I choose to do that. We choose to do that.

That’s why these people are still here - not because we want to hold onto the title of councillor for as long as we can, that is meaningless to

us,” Cr Rosario said.

“We will stay until the end to serve you,” he told the gallery.

To conclude, Cr Wayne Smith listed his achievements, saying his was “very proud and honoured” to serve with council during his near 30-year term.

His speech was interrupted by a discontent resident who shouted: “You haven’t done you job!”

Part of the gallery gave a standing ovation before erupting into three cheers while others shouted out the shortcomings of councillors.

Rex Flannery, who resigned as councillor days earlier, was present in the gallery, saying after the meeting “the people have spoken”.

“Has council affected me? Have I been tarnished? Doesn’t bother me,” he said, adding he hoped to be able to put his hand up as councillor in four years.

CRRA spokesman Brendan Browne said he was baffled as to why councillors spent “an hour of congratulations” at the meeting without a single apology.

“They just don’t get that they haven’t done their job. The monitor’s report spells it out,” Mr Browne said.

He added: “They don’t hold each other to account”.

Former Casey mayor Rob Wilson said the dismissal was “something that had to happen” and took aim at councillors for showing no “hint of remorse or apology”.

“There were no expressions of contriteness, no sorry, no admission of guilt: ’We’re sorry that we didn’t notice things happen and get things cleaned up’,” Mr Wilson said.

Mr Wilson did however acknowledge the achievements of councillors and Cr Stapledon who supported him in launching his two books.

Councillors Sam Aziz and Milla Gilic were absent on the night.

Administrator moves in

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

12356665-RC27-17

Casey Council has been formally dismissed, with its councillors replaced by Interim Administrator Noelene Duff.

On 19 February, State Governor Linda Dessau gave the Royal Assent to a Bill for Casey Council’s dismissal - which rushed through State Parliament the day before.

Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek announced Ms Duff will run the council for the next 90 days.

A panel of three State-appointed Administrators will then take over until the next Casey councillor elections in October 2024.

Mr Somyurek said the Government acted swiftly to implement Municipal Monitor Laurinda Gardner’s recommendations to dismiss the council.

“Through the appointment of Ms Duff residents and ratepayers will see an improvement in the standards of conduct, transparency and

integrity in the City of Casey.

“Ms Duff will work with the CEO to ensure that the Council is focused on governing in the best interests of the local community and providing first class services.”

Ms Duff had served until recently as City of Whitehorse’s chief executive for 19 years.

In the 2020 Australia Day Honours List, she was awarded a Public Service Medal in recognition of her service to local government.

Casey chief executive Glenn Patterson, who is expected to meet with Ms Duff this week, noted Ms Duff’s experience and credentials.

“We welcome the announcement which gives both the organisation and our communities some form of clarity following the recent period of change and uncertainty,” Mr Patterson said.

“I look forward to meeting with Ms Duff and discussing transition arrangements, including how we can work together to best represent the interests of our Casey communities.

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Tuesday, 25 February, 2020

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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

LOOKING BACK

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

100 years ago

50 years ago

26 February 1920

26 February 1970 Woolworth Store Closes The sale has been completed of Woolworths Ltd apparel store in Lonsdale St Dandenong.

A spokesman for Woolworths said "legally the contracts have not been exchanged so we can't say yet." On the reasons for the closure of the store which finished trading last Saturday, the spokesman said: "The action in closing the Dandenong apparel store is a result of regular reviews of store operations whereby new stores are planned as local and older stores no longer provide adequate local service"

Returned Soldiers' Pictures The soldier's pictures at the Town Hall last week were very well patronised and they had a "full House." The pictures were very good, and great interest was manifested in the serial "19 fight for Million" which seems to have gripped with excitement those who have seen it, and the screening of each part is anxiously awaited. Next Wednesday evening's programme : 4th epoxide of the Fight for Millions; The Precipice Horror; The White Heather, 6,000 st all-star cast; Gazette and Comic. The company has been granted permission to show every Wednesday night.

20 years ago 28 February 2000 Home Price boom Dandenong has finally felt the property boom

which has been sweeping Melbourne for the past two years. The president of the Dandenong Branch of the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) Ms Margaret Chisholm said "there had been more activity in the past few months than there had been in many years."

Dandenong was a late starter probably one of the last suburbs to feel the effect of the boom, but we are certainly feeling it now and it is wonderful", she said.

5 years ago The final end Dandenong's longest continuous sports club is soon to be no more. On Saturday Dandenong Bowling Club played its final home matches at its picturesque site in Dandenong Park - its home since it started in 1882. The club pre-dates the town's historic town hall, and has faced down threats such as floods,

the widening of Princes Highway and a clubhouse fire. But with a membership at an unbefitting low of 14, there was no way to go on, president Greg Payne said. Its players were now planning moves to other clubs or straight out retirement, the clubhouse and greens are set to be demolished by Greater Dandenong Council. Greater Dandenong community services director Mark Doubleday said the club had been consulted on its future over the past eight years. "While we agree it's sad to see the closure of the club, we are very pleased to know that the remaining members will continue to play at other bowls clubs.

The master plan proposes that the space will become more open and will facilitate further public use on a day to day basis as well as for special events and festivals."

NEWS

Nostalgia at end of line The show has been run for 12 years by Rotary Club of Endeavour Hills. It also features food trucks, kids activities, car sponsors, car-owner prizes and a raffle.

All car show profits will be donated to Rotary's charities and bushfire relief.

The event is at Dandenong Showgrounds, Bennet Street, Dandenong on Sunday 1 March, 7am-2pm. Entry $5.

Details: 'Dandenong All Holden Car Show' Facebook site.

Rare Holdens will be on display at the upcoming car show at Greaves Reserve. 178884 Picture: ROB CAREW

12433594-SN09-20

The annual All Holden Car Show in Dandenong is a chance to commemorate the soonto-close iconic brand, say organisers.

"After the sad news this week, it is now time to celebrate what Holden has meant to Australians," Rotarian Colin Byron said.

"You will see some amazing Holdens in all their glory."

More than 150 entries will span much of Holden's 67-year-history as a car maker in Australia.

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Tuesday, 25 February, 2020

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … WEDDINGS

Best smile for the big day

By Danielle Kutchel Smilesfirst has been serving the beautiful community in and around Endeavour hills for more than a decade.

Their team is dedicated to help patients achieve optimum dental health and general wellbeing by tailoring each patient’s treatment needs, keeping their individual circumstances in mind.

In alignment with this mission Smilesfirst is introducing an exclusive, free three-step smile evaluation!

Get your best smile with the Smilesfirst team.

In this initial assessment the positioning, shape, size and colour will be assessed by their qualified and experienced dentists.

All the treatment options will be discussed with the patient and a quote will be provided with all relevant information so that patients can make informed decisions to achieve the smile they have always wanted.

Smilesfirst offers various types of orthodontic treatment including Invisalign; cosmetic bonded or porcelain veneers; and customised boutique whitening kits.

Boutique whitening is a professional tooth whitening system that can only be prescribed by a dentist.

The system is designed to easily fit in with

your lifestyle.

This complimentary initial assessment is available not only for the blushing bride but for the whole bridal party, the family or anyone that would be interested.

Smilesfirst offers payment plans with no interest and also have happy gas available on site to help overcome anxiety of dental treatment.

Give Smilesfirst a call on 03 8772 2053 and unveil your new brighter, whiter smile for the special day.

Smilesfirst is located at 59A Heatherton Road, Endeavour Hills.

Melbourne’s most stunning event venue to hold your luxury wedding, formal, and corporate event.

Iconic destination for vows

By Danielle Kutchel Alencia is a new iconic destination in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne, located in Dandenong South.

This is Melbourne’s most stunning event venue to hold your luxury wedding, formal, and corporate event.

The versatile venue is tailored for all events, boasting contemporary architecture and the most accommodating staff, who will go above and beyond to make your event as special as can be.

No expense has been spared in the development of the former AMF Bowling site into this state-of-the-art function space inspired by the timelessness of French lace and located conveniently within the growing corridor of the south east, just minutes from the major Monash Freeway arterial.

Significant thought has been put into the amenities and spaces available at the venue including the ample on site parking, the spacious bridal suites, the Terrace area which overlooks the front of the venue and can ac-

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commodate up to 120 guests (cocktail), and the Couture Room which is the smaller of the two function spaces and can accommodate 300 guests comfortably.

All of this is eclipsed by the grandeur of the Marquee Ballroom which can comfortably seat up to 750 guests.

Both rooms have state-of-the-art lighting which can change to almost any colour according to the theme of the event, and the sophisticated sound proofing will ensure you’re not interrupted by the festivities of the adjoining rooms.

The team comprises a practised, devoted staff committed to providing guests with a five-star experience.

Alencia personalises all of events to cater to your taste and make your wishes a reality.

Their ultimate goal is to create fond, funfilled memories in a breathtaking setting.

Alencia is located at 39 Princes Highway, Dandenong South. For more information visit www.alencia.com.au, call 9792 2383, or email enquiries@alencia.com.au.

Weddings. School Formals. Corporate.

10 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 25 February, 2020

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Developer’s second try

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong councillors have overruled council planners by refusing a proposal for three townhouses at 16 Callaghan Street, Noble Park.

The trio of two-storey residences was regarded an overdevelopment of the 730-squaremetre block, councilors argued.

Previously the council had rejected a plan for four townhouses on the site. VCAT upheld the council's position in January 2019.

Cr Peter Brown, in an alternate motion on

10 February, said there were strong arguments for VCAT to refuse the latest iteration even if "planning is an inexact science".

The two-storey design's bulk and narrow setbacks would impact adversely on Blaby Street neighbours.

It failed to respect the preferred neighbourhood character, with looming overshadowing and overlooking.

"In Callaghan Street ... old dwellings have been replaced by new stand-alone single-storey dwellings which characterise the street.

"The proposed development is antithetical to the concept of practical incremental change in the immediate area."

Cr Tim Dark, in support of refusal, noted the adjoining Noble Park Secondary College raised concerns about traffic congestion.

Council planners had recommended approval on the basis that the proposal "appropriately responds to strategic policy for residential development in the area".

"The future character of incremental change areas will evolve over time to accommodate well-designed and site-responsive

single and double storey dwellings.

"The subject site has a direct interface with the Mile Creek reserve and the provision of double-story dwellings along this interface would allow for greater passive surveillance opportunities."

The council's transport planning unit had "no concerns" on traffic and parking issues, noting the proposed on-site garages.

Planners found no overlooking impacts, as well as appropriate setbacks and attempts to minimize visual bulk.

Stellar local Michael Cormick leads Drum roll of stars

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Drum Theatre's 2020 program of stellar names in singing, theatre and dance has been launched by hometown hero Michael Cormick.

Cormick, an international musical theatre star who grew up in Doveton, will team with Rachel Beck for You and I in June.

The pair will reprise songs and tell stories from their extensive careers, including their first collaboration Beauty and the Beast from 25 years ago.

Other songs from musicals Next To Normal, Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, Jekyll and Hyde and Chicago will also be performed.

Since the first time they shared the stage, Cormick and Beck have been enduring friends.

Cormick is godfather to Beck's two daughters.

On stage, there's always been a chemistry; the pair's voices being a "natural blend", Cormick says.

"We're very close. To work on stage together is nice - we know each other so well.

"I know from that glint in the eye when she's going to make a certain move."

Last year, Cormick performed back in his hometown for the first time since shooting to international stardom.

It was a return to where he first learnt his craft, as a shy choir singer at St Mary's Catholic Church, Dandenong. His career took off after winning a local St John's talent quest at 14.

Last year, his former schoolmates, his mother and brother were among a packed Drum Theatre audience for his Feelin' Good concert.

"It was like coming home. So delightful," Cormick says.

For much of 2020, he and Beck will tour together. Having trod the stage of the most acclaimed concert halls in Europe, Cormick has hopes to return for a musical theatre show in London late in the year.

Other delights await Drum audiences in 2020 - legend singer-songwriter Archie Roach, cabaret artist Jude Perl, Red Stitch Theatre, guitarist Johannes Moller, Opera Australia performing Carmen, Bell Shakespeare and the Australian Ballet.

Details: drumtheatre.com.au

Michael Cormick at the launch of Drum Theatre's 2020 program. 204186 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

OPEN DAY at Cumberland View Saturday, 14th March 10am to 2pm Come and discover what community living is all about at Cumberland View Retirement Living and Aged Care.

Come and view our fantastic village facilities including a swimming pool, a concert hall, vegie gardens, large outdoor open space areas, sporting green and more!

Walk through the aged care home and learn about care, support and the wonderful leisure and lifestyle program.

Be well informed about our Home Care services and our customised packages tailored to your needs.

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Come and take a tour and join our friendly staff and residents for a cuppa, free light refreshments and have all your questions answered.

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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 25 February, 2020

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STAR JOURNAL 11

FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE

ARCHITECTURALLY DESIGNED PRIVATE ENCLAVE DEVELOPED by award-winning Pask Group in conjunction with renowned architects, DKO Architecture, each Hark residence exudes its own unique style showcasing a balance of classic Australian modernist design with a focus on materials, light and views.

Throughout the development the striking exteriors feature bold geometric contours

with a neutral palette of greys and timber accents, whilst interiors draw inspiration from a contemporary Scandinavian aesthetic.

Following the sell out of stage one, the developer is pleased to present the final release comprising a collection of spacious 3 and 4 bedroom homes enjoying an

exceptional outlook across a neighbouring reserve.

With almost 70 per cent now sold, only limited opportunities remain to secure a premium residence in this unique development.

Priced from $725,000 - $1,095,000, your opportunity to secure one of these truly

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SPORT

Siddle’s incredible career

By Tyler Lewis With arms aloft in the middle of The Gabba on day one of the 2010 Ashes series, Peter Siddle created history in a moment of brilliance that will long echo through the game of cricket even more so now that he has safely tucked away his Baggy Green in retirement.

But for the right-arm quick, his career was much more than that fateful day in Brisbane.

It was one that begun for his beloved Dandenong Cricket Club, developing his trademark lion-hearted spells as a youngster, before he was rewarded for all the long days in the nets with the honour of being the 403rd Australian Test Cricketer.

As just a teenager, Siddle impressed the people who mattered at Victorian Premier Cricket club Dandenong and with intentions to utilise his talent, he was eager to play against men, albeit after waiting for his parents' approval.

"It definitely was a long time ago," he said.

"Initially I played two years of Dowling Shield when it was Premier Cricket for Dandenong, so I played as a 14, 15-year-old for Dandenong in that competition.

"It all started when I played the Hatch cricket competition for Noble Park, so it was an early progression down in the Dandenong area - it all came about in those junior years.

"When they (Dandenong) showed interest in me starting my senior career, I jumped at it, I obviously needed the parents to buy in because they had to do the driving.

"The late Des Nolan, who oversaw my progression as a young kid, and Brendan McArdle were the two key influences when I first started, then the numerous senior players, the older guys we had around the team at the time showed me the ropes."

Upon announcing his retirement, Siddle's close mate James Pattinson was on fire at the MCG. They have a strong friendship that started down at his local club through James' older brother Darren who also pulled on the international threads, playing one test for England. "(We became mates) through his older brother Darren," he said.

"James used to come and watch us play and have a bit of banter with the boys in the change room - he used to laugh away at us and hang shit on us as a young kid.

"Once he joined, similar to me, join at a young age and you get around the senior guys who are playing with men, we noticed then that the talent he had.

"How quickly he developed once he started playing with men was quite extraordinary."

The Shepley Oval cabinet has three pieces of silverware from the first XI side in red ball fixtures, and Siddle has played in all three.

While he has an astonishing resume of accomplishments, the three flags for his home club still sit dearly in his heart.

"It is massive, the first one I had played a lot of cricket over the corresponding years," he said.

"I had played at the club for a long time and you always are trying to win something and play a part in finals.

"It was with a good group of guys who had been together for a long time. I still remember it, and club legend in Tim Hooper got to play a part in it before he hung up the boots.

"To be able to play along someone like him, who had been there a long time, longer than me, to experience that and play a part in it, was quite memorable for us as individuals, but (also) us as a team.

"It had been such a long wait for that opportunity and we definitely made the most of it."

After he had debuted for Australia, Siddle returned to play for Dandenong and add another premiership in 2010/11 in what is considered the greatest grand final of the modern Premier grade era.

"I think it was definitely the hardest one (premiership)," he said.

"The other two we were pretty dominant in both games, (we) sort of flew away in front, (but) that one was the most nerve-wracking.

"But then when you look back on it - I have played a lot of cricket, all around the world, a lot of games, but that is probably one of the 16 STAR JOURNAL

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Dandenong Cricket Club's very own Peter Siddle lets it fly.

Siddle in the midst of that historical Ashes series. most amazing games I have been a part of.

"How it ebbed and flowed and then finished, everyone was still a chance of winning, even late in the day, as nerve wracking as it was, you look back on it now and once you are the winner from it, it is a memorable game."

Tuesday, 25 February, 2020

Picture: ARJ GIESE/CRICKET VICTORIA

Picture: GETTY IMAGES On his 26th birthday, Siddle claimed Alastair Cook, Matt Prior and Stuart Broad in consecutive balls late on day one, becoming the ninth Australian to take a Test hat-trick.

It's a moment he believes gave him confidence in his long awaited return from the

rehab group, while admitting the moment of pure euphoria didn't actually go to plan, although achieving the desired result.

"I had obviously only been playing for a couple years up until that time," he said. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT "I had my ups and downs, injury, before that I was off from a big lay-off with a back injury, so to be able to do that probably gave me the confidence straight away that I can still compete at the level.

"Moving forward it definitely gave me something to talk about and remember that's for sure. There are lots of good memories over the years, but that is always going to be up there with the best.

"You don't really get too nervous; you just want to bowl a good ball. For me I was just thinking 'run in, bowl it fast, bowl it fast, hit the wicket and bowl it fast'.

"In the end I didn't hit the wicket, I hit him on the full.

"That's all I was thinking 'run in, bowl fast', similar to what you do as a young kid growing up, it didn't quite come out exactly to plan and

the execution of what I wanted but at the end of the day it had the same result I was looking for."

The decision to hang up the international boots was one of thorough discussion behind closed doors, one that could have happened overseas after a historic victory, before the opportunity to go out in style on home soil lured the quick to continue on for another couple of months.

"The wife and I spoke about it in the lead up to the Ashes before I left for County cricket," he said.

"If I got on that Ashes tour then I might do it there - it had been in the pipelines for her and I for a good six months.

"They just threw it out there that the opportunity may come up back home in Australia; (and) obviously I took my chances doing it back home in front of family and friends.

"At the end of the day, 67 Tests, I can't complain too much."

While still intending to see out his time at Victoria, and in County Cricket and domestic T20 competitions, Siddle still envisions a return to where it all begun in the distant future.

And with fellow Dandenong quick James Nanopoulos taking the Victorian Premier Cricket competition by storm this season, Siddle has accepted he might have to stride up the hill into the wind in the second over of the match if Nanopoulos' form continues.

"I have retired internationally, but I will probably end up playing more cricket than I was anyway with state and BBL," he said.

"At the back end, when I start phasing out of cricket, no doubt there will be opportunities to go back and have a run around James (Nanopoulos) again, and Tommy (Donnell),

Forsy (Brett Forsyth), those boys I have played a lot of cricket with.

"I will get back there at some stage and have a run around with them. I will probably have to bowl into the wind, he (James Nanopoulos) will have first choice with the records he has going at the moment.

"It is amazing to see, I still remembered when he turned up at the club, and he was a batsman - opening the batting and whacking it at the top in the white ball stuff. To see him now, and especially the last few years to be the player he has turned into, especially his bowling - to be dominating Premier Cricket, breaking all the club records - it is great to see.

"Like I said, he came to the club as a batter but he worked hard, that was the other thing, he worked hard on his game and to see where it is now is amazing."

The Eagles are set to soar after their Twenty20 triumph

By Tyler Lewis A piece of silverware has returned to Sydney Pargeter Reserve after Endeavour Hills took out the Victorian Sub-District Twilight Twenty20 title recently.

After a difficult couple of years on-field, the Eagles have tasted the success they've been deprived of in recent times.

In both the semi-final and final, the Eagles defended a score of less than a run a ball 9/104 in the semi and 7/102 in the crunch grand final against Coburg.

In the final played at Hogans Road Reserve in Hoppers Crossing, the Eagles couldn't quite get going with the bat, notching 7/102 off the back of 40 from Manav Malik, but saved their best for last in a spectacular display with ball in hand.

With everything on the line, the Eagles held

the opposition to just 8/90 from its 20 overs, with a match-defining 4/13 from Hemantha Jaysundera seeing his side over the line.

Eagles president Gary Parsons was over the moon with his club's success, telling the Journal it capped off a brilliant weekend for the Endeavour Hills Cricket Club.

"It is sensational, we had four from four the other day to start it off," he said.

"Five from five in the T20s, it was always in the way we batted, once we got to 100 runs we knew could defend it.

"We had a couple close games, but the boys brought home the bacon which was really good."

While some clubs may not consider the shorter format competition one of significance, for Parsons, the title is one that should build some momentum for the future for the club.

"I think it was more the success in the early, preliminary Twenty20s that helped us out on the weekends," he said.

"The initial couple of games, we were poor in the field, we dropped a lot of catches. Slowly but surely, the boys changed on Saturdays and got a couple of good wins, which was good and they have carried it forward, which has been great.

"Now that they have had the taste, the important thing is to win the last two games of the year that puts us in and around middle of the range, which is much better than we have been the last couple of years, where we have been the cellar dweller at the bottom."

While it has been a huge achievement for a club that has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, the title in the limited overs fixture isn't one Parsons expected to bring home in the lead up to the 2019/20 season.

"Being competitive was the first part with our Saturday cricket," he said.

"The Twenty20 has been an absolute bonus, the blokes tended to gel a lot in the field and go through more professionally than what they have done on the Saturday.

"I always like to have 120 on the board, but in the end 102 was enough."

Semi-final: Endeavour Hills 9/104 (Mohotty 30, Kulasena 4/15) d St. Bernards 7/93.

Final: Endeavour Hills 7/102 (Malik 40, Jayasundera 4/13) d Coburg 8/90.

The Endeavour Hills 2019/20 VSDCA T20 Twilight Premiership side: Brian Kulasena (capt), Manav Malik, Chris Ryan, Awais Ahmed, Mohsin Rasheed, Vinu Mohotty, Tyrell Panditharatne, Lachlan De Zilwa (wk), Sohail Sadiq, Hemantha Jayasundera and Daniel Cameron.

Endeavour Hills had plenty to smile about when the club secured a well-earned victory in the VSDCA Twenty20 competition final. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Picture: FACEBOOK Tuesday, 25 February, 2020

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STAR JOURNAL 17

SPORT

Southside’s playoff destiny The Southside Flyers have stormed into the WNBL’s big dance.

The Flyers swept the Adelaide Lightning on their way to the grand final with two terrific victories, one on their home floor and the other interstate. In game one, the Flyers had the support of a monster crowd on Tuesday night at Dandenong Stadium.

Southside got off to a lethargic start before a Mercedes Russell clinic in the post clawed the Flyers over the line to claim a 6865 victory. The Lightning surged away to a 13-point buffer just before half-time, before

the Flyers inched closer and closer before Russell swung the momentum back in the favour of the home side.

Russell’s teammates sensed her dominance and looked to her on the inside at will in the third period and she ran rampant in the paint. From her 40 minutes on the floor, Russell put up 20 points and brought down a whopping 19 rebounds - the only player on the court to register a double-double.

In game two, it was a different brand of Flyers basketball that overcame the Lightning, but one that is all the more terrifying.

After proving defiant from the paint in game one, the Flyers showed serious range in

game two - setting it alight from beyond the arc. A crowd of almost 2000 people witnessed the Flyers storm into the grand final with an 82-79 triumph.

The Lightning looked on early but, from the second term onwards, the Flyers only gave the lead up once before swiftly grabbing it straight back. Conversely to game one, it wasn’t Russell who did the damage, it was Rebecca Cole who broke the hearts of the Lightning fans.

Cole dropped 19 points, brought down 10 boards and dished off five assists - including two from four from beyond the arc.

Sara Blicavs and Leilani Mitchell also dealt

George’s spirits lifted at Sandown Park

By Jason Adams Ben George got the emotional lift he needed when ‘Kilpatrick’ caused an upset on Thursday night at Sandown Park.

Spirits were low throughout the week, which led to an interrupted preparation, but a gutsy win on the big stage brought some buzz back to the team.

“I wasn’t expecting this. Honestly, I can’t believe it,” George expressed post-race.

“We had one break down last Wednesday and that’s where the attention has been he’s recovering in the lounge room right now with my partner.

“The win means a lot and gives me a massive lift. I came here just hoping he’d get around safe.”

Kilpatrick, or Patch as he’s known at home, is the kennel’s flagship sprinter and has now won 12 of his 38 career starts.

Just two-and-a-half years ago George made the life-changing decision to move from Queensland to Victoria and take up training

In times of crisis, you can give

Ben George got a stirring emotional lift when his dog Kilpatrick saluted at Sandown last Thursday. greyhounds full-time with his partner, Tara Baxter.

“We both had professional jobs and the stress of it got to us,” George said.

“We were in a position to sell up and have a crack at something new before we got too old and cranky.

“I couldn’t do it without her - she loves the dogs.”

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As we would like to field 2 x teams for each age group, further • 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

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Under sunny skies, Burden Park’s Division 1 team hosted Yarra Glen on the weekend. After 21 ends, Burden Park finally came out on top to win a hard-fought struggle by 10 shots overall, 88 to 78, and with the win earned 16 points to Yarra Glen’s two points. Burden Park’s second team, in Division 3, played the ladderleading Narre Warren, also at home - this time falling short by just three shots overall, 74-77, with two rinks up. Burden Park earned four points, to Narre Warren’s 14.

Finally, Burden Park’s third team, in Division 6, journeyed to South Oakleigh, and after a disappointing year came away with a fighting win, 75-66. This Burden Park team has been decimated all year with injury and absentees.

But, crucially, the club has invested in several young members - Nathan Winsor, Aaron Quach, Jordan Eyre, and David Frencherville who are all playing their first year in the number three team, and what a breath of fresh are they’ve proven to be. With the addition of Olivia Ong and Seth O’Donnell, also, Burden Park has thrived on the inclusions - thanks in no small part to Bruce Smith and ‘Fletch’, who’ve spent many tireless hours developing them.

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Burden bowls

They have a 10-acre property in Nerrena and built a lot of the facility themselves.

“We put in about 300 posts, all concreted by hand - the only thing we didn’t do was the shed.”

Fans of the sport may be familiar with George as he was the owner of ‘Sulzanti’, who was a Shootout finalist in 2015, however had his racing career cut short. He now stands at stud in what is a very competitive market.

“The stud market is massive and it’s very hard to break through if they haven’t won group races,” George said.

“He didn’t, but we knew the potential he had. With the lack of advertising, I’m very proud of what he’s achieved with his offspring.

“I’ve got one sired by Sulzanti, his name is Royal Arrival and looks to be a very nice pup in the making.

“I just want to breed my own, rear and train them. Hopefully in future we’ll be able to do that successfully.”

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major blows to Adelaide, both shooting four of seven from the perimeter.

The Southside Flyers will await the result of the final match between the UC Capitals and the Melbourne Boomers on Wednesday to determine their grand final opponents.

Finishing as the number one seed, the Flyers gain home court advantage for two of the three games in the grand final series.

Regardless of the opponent, the Flyers will host the game on 5 March at Dandenong Stadium from 5pm and - if required - game three the following Sunday from 1pm.

All games are televised on Fox Sports.

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Powerhouses ready to go

By Nick Creely DDCA TWENTY20 GRAND FINAL PREVIEW BUCKLEY RIDGES v SPRINGVALE SOUTH WHERE AND WHEN: Tuesday 25 February, Shepley Oval, Dandenong, 5.15pm CAPTAINS: David White (Buckley Ridges) and Brett Forsyth (Springvale South) THE KEY MEN: The star power of Buckley's South African skipper David White is obvious; he's spanked 265 runs this tournament at an average of 72.5 including a whirlwind 118 not out and has rarely failed when taking on the Bloods since joining the association. Allrounder Jerome Jones could be one of the biggest keys to the contest, with the West Indian quick and middle-order power hitter playing with Dandenong in this year's Super Slam, so his knowledge of Shepley Oval will be vital.

Jones has completely dominated the DDCA Twenty20 tournament, with his pace with the ball and strike power with the bat a huge weapon. Champ Daniel Watson is another building into his best form after an injury interrupted season at stages and he's no stranger to the big occasion.

For the Bloods, Ateeq Javid has had a seriously dominant Twenty20 campaign, belting scores of 88, 108, 11 and 58 to be a beacon at the top of the order. It's not so much his ability to find the boundaries at will, but his incredible way of rotating the strike and never becoming bogged down, an important skill to have on Shepley Oval. His partner in crime at the top - the great Dandenong opener Brett Forsyth - has built a formidable record as the club's marquee man since 2011/12, crunching over 1200 runs at an average of just under 50, and on his home ground - one that saw him win the coveted Ryder Medal on last season as well as drive bowlers into the ground with his incurable appetite for runs. Not many in the south-east - let alone Victoria - boast a record more impressive, and on the big stage he could

Powerful Buckley Ridges all-rounder Jerome Jones will be hoping to turn in a starring Picture: ROB CAREW performance. 201523

The great Brett Forsyth looms as a key for Springvale South on Tuesday evening. 204118 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Reserve - the ebbs and flows of momentum, the little defining moments, the daring and clutch centuries of David White and Nathan King, and the thrilling finish that went down to the very last hour to decide.

And now, in the shortest form of the game, the two great clubs will meet once more for a piece of silverware, and one that could be the catalyst for what's still to come in a tight season of Turf 1 cricket where both are once again right in the hunt for the ultimate prize.

The DDCA Twenty20 tournament in 2019/20 has been one of disruptions due to the weather, but in spite of this, the Bucks and Bloods have been the two sides that have stood out the most, and at crucial times always seem to find a way to come out the other side with a victory.

In white-ball (50 over) cricket this season at Shepley Oval in Victorian Premier Cricket first XI competition, runs haven't exactly pinged off the bat, but with the high-scoring nature of both batting groups, and their desire to find boundaries and keep the run-rate flowing at a rapid rate, the contest between some of the finest bowlers and batters in the association will be a fascinating one.

Clearly both sides' major strength is their

top-order, so winning the toss and batting - in order to get something on the board in a do-ordie final - would be the most logical decision, but the nature of how these two teams play means that regardless of which way the toss goes, they will be confident they can adapt and play to the conditions and the game situation.

The Bucks showed its got another dimension to its game in the semi-final against Narre South, only scratching out 124 and losing White in the opening over before defending its score quite comfortably after a devestating Daniel Watson spell, so the group will have supreme confidence it can find a way - whether its through a game-changing over or a couple of important boundaries - to turn the tide when things aren't going its way. Similar to the Bloods - who were ruthless against Berwick in the semis - they've at times not put together their best cricket through the tournament, but always seem to have an answer when challenged, regardless of whether their chasing or defending.

Both clubs' supporters are some of the most passionate in the association, and one thing is for certain, they'll both be out in force in club colours looking to bring the noise. Bring it on!

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be set to make a statement. Spinner Jarryd Straker is another Blood that is in a rich-vein of form and will suit a Shepley Oval surface that's seen a lot of slower bowling this year.

TWENTY20 TITLES: Buckley Ridges - 2007/08, 2008/09, 2009/10, 2010/11, 2012/13, 2013/14, 2016/17.

Springvale South - 2014/15, 2015/16 LIKELY SIDES BUCKLEY RIDGES Daniel Watson David White (capt) Susantha Pradeep Jayson Hobbs Jerome Jones Troy Aust (wk) Greg Todd Matt Goodwright Wes Nicholas Haider Rahimi Connor Bowden SPRINGVALE SOUTH Brett Forsyth (capt) Ateeq Javid Ryan Quirk Akshay Ballal Andrew Staude Tim Ford Brayden Sharp Liam Hamilton (wk) Kallan Braid-Ball Sam Wetering Jarryd Straker THE FINAL WORD: These two powerful Dandenong District clubs and epic games of cricket go hand-in-hand.

Over the years, there's been countless contests that have gone down in local cricketing folklore.

Nobody could forget last year's Turf 1 grand final classic between the two clubs at Carroll

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