Dandenong Star Journal - 03rd March 2020

DANDENONG

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

/DandenongJournal

@StarJournal_SE

40¢ Inc. GST

Cruel tricycle thieves

Cats get the cream

Foys' Holden roots

A man on a mission

PAGE 2

PAGE 5

PAGE 10

SPORT

SUBSCRIBE to our DIGITAL EDITION - It's FREE 12438490-SG03-20

Sow, how does their garden grow A new group of green thumbs got their hands dirty with the launch of Endeavour Hills Neighbourhood Centre. At the opening was Morgan Koegal from 3000 Acres, pictured left, who ran a workshop, and centre manager Trudy Buchanan. The garden is open to all levels of experience, with plots still available.

Details: community_garden@ehillsnc.org.au Picture: GARY SISSONS

Lives ‘ruined’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

12389128-CG24-18

Eighty-year-old grandmother Ilona Prohaska, who was left for dead with a slashed throat in her Endeavour Hills home seven years ago, has told of further profound devastation at her attacker’s plea hearing in the Supreme Court of Victoria.

On 24 February, Ms Prohaska’s victim impact statement was read to Scott Alan Murdoch, 42, who pleaded guilty to intentionally causing her serious injury as well as the mur-

der of Pakenham mother Kylie Blackwood.

Ms Prohaska looked on via video link as Murdoch was told that his attack ruined her life.

The Yugoslav-born widow believed it also killed her only child Johnnie - who was originally regarded by police as a “key suspect”, she stated.

Before Johnnie was cleared of suspicion, he’d become seriously ill and died of kidney failure.

“I know that the extreme stress of being accused of attempting to murder his mother was

the biggest factor in his health declining.”

Due to the police investigation, Ms Prohaska was not able to contact Johnnie - despite her insisting the attacker wasn’t her son.

Her “deepest hurt” was being unable to be with him when he died, she stated.

“I’ve got nothing to live for anymore.

“I just didn’t want to die before I could clear Johnnie’s name.

“I wish he was here to see his name clear.”

Her heart-break was aside from the daily

torment and excruciating pain listed to the court as a result of the attack.

The court had not heard any evidence about Johnnie Prohaska’s status as a suspect or the link to his illness.

Crown and defence lawyers agreed that presiding Justice Jane Dixon should not rely on those factors in sentencing.

However prosecutor Joanne Poole said Ms Prohaska would take “some comfort” from the court acknowledging her son was innocent in this matter.

Continued page 3

NEWS

Urban forest saved

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong Council has made a hasty U-turn in support of an Urban Forest Strategy for more tree canopy cover in the council area.

After receiving a report with "further supporting information", councillors backed the strategy on 24 February - just two months after voting it down.

Councillor Matthew Kirwan said the council's declaration of a climate emergency in January as well as community outrage were also turning points.

"There are residents in Greater Dandenong who are frustrated by what's happening to our city, in the sense of having someone buy a house and the first thing they do is clear their property and concrete their front yard."

In December, most opposing councillors had raised private landowners' rights to remove trees. Many of their fears were allayed by a revised report.

Under the new plan, council officers will research possible regulatory controls to combat the "concrete jungle", then put the options to councillors and public consultation.

Cr Tim Dark remained opposed, saying the council was set to waste $100,000 on a "fa-

tally flawed" report that "can't possibly make sense".

"What (landowners) do on their own property is completely up to them.

"It's not up to the role of government to tell them to plant more trees and not to chop them down."

The report suggested investigating measures such as a significant tree register, more tree protection in the council's planning scheme, education programs and canopies in Council car parks.

Cr Sean O'Reilly said the council should garner information and research before "nipping this idea in the bud".

"You could argue that declaring a climate emergency is just a platitude but what we're talking about here is proceeding into an investigation that will have a practical impact on our residents."

Through the planning permit system, the council already had authority over private land. But there were also other solutions that wouldn't "tie up our residents in red tape", Cr O'Reilly said.

"This problem that we are facing, that the world is facing and that people in our munici-

pality are facing is potentially extreme.

"We have to look at every option we can to mitigate some of the scary impacts that are potentially down the track."

Council officers stated that if controls on private land weren't brought in, the council was "highly unlikely" to reach its 15 per cent canopy coverage target by 2028.

More plantings on streets and parks would not be enough, it stated.

Greater Dandenong is one of the most denuded council areas in Melbourne, with just 9.9 per cent canopy coverage.

According to the report, it exacerbates the "urban heat island effect", putting its vulnerable residents at greater risk to heat stress and illness.

"Vegetation, more so, the urban forest is an essential component to tackling climate change," a council report stated.

"Vegetation absorbs greenhouse gases and reduces the ambient air temperature, significantly reducing the impacts of the urban heat island effect."

It also stated that more trees would improve investment, air quality and a sense of community.

Cruel tricycle thieves caught on CCTV

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Police have released footage of a man and a woman believed to have stolen a disability pensioner’s electric tricycle in Dandenong last year.

The red Hyosung trike, registered 2F5YF, had a large DISABILITY sign affixed and was locked in a designated parking space in the basement of the victim’s Cheltenham Road address.

Police believe that a man and a woman, who arrived in the car park on a red motorbike, stole the trike about 11.50pm on 12 July.

They were both wearing motorcycle helmets at the time.

CCTV footage shows the man operating an exit roller door as the woman wheels the tricycle out of the car park.

She then pedals away on the tricycle. https://youtu.be/hznUZVAax1w The trike’s owner, Denis Papko, discovered his $2500 transport was missing the next morning.

And worse, lightning struck twice. His identical replacement tricycle was stolen from its chain-locked mooring at Sandown Park Hotel on Tuesday 28 January about 6.45pm.

The mobility-impaired 35-year-old had used the essential transport daily for shopping, outings to the city and visiting family and friends.

He can’t afford to replace or insure the essential transport.

“I enjoyed riding them - they’re fantastic.

“It gets on my nerves that they don’t look at the (disability) sign and think ‘what if he can’t walk?’

“I’m sad. I don’t know why these sort of people do this.

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

Charles Seleman with his national security award at Armada Dandenong Plaza. 205011 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Plaza guard wins award A shopping centre security guard has taken out a national award for his work with African youths in Dandenong.

Charles Seleman, hired at Armada Dandenong Plaza, said he was humbled by his Australian Industry Association Limited award.

“It was a real honour,” he said.

His work has been part of the plaza’s Respect Protect Connect public safety campaign launched in July 2019.

The ‘zero tolerance’ campaign has targeted people behaving inappropriately and disrespectfully at the centre.

Plaza centre manager Monica Jenkins said the centre was “very fortunate to have a security guard of Charles’s calibre”.

“Charles Seleman’s work with the local African community has been an inspiration to centre management and everyone that works with him on a day-to-day basis.”

Mr Seleman had been nominated by security contractor Access Group Solutions for the Individual Achievement - General Security award.

He is in training to qualify for Australian Ninja Warrior in 2021.

“I applied for the 2020 season but had to put things on hold due to an injury.

“I am now getting ready for the 2021 season, focusing on body building and overall strength at this stage.”

Murder arrest

A man and woman wanted in relation to the first stolen tricycle.

A second man has been charged with murder over the fatal shooting of Mitat Rasimi in Dandenong last year.

Victoria Police’s Taskforce Sector detectives arrested a 27-year-old Dandenong man in Springvale about 4pm on Tuesday 25 February.

He is expected to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 26 February.

Detectives also raided properties in Dandenong and Endeavour Hills as part of the operation.

In November, police charged a 25-year-old Hampton Park man with one count of murder and firearms offences.

He is currently remanded and due to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 9 April.

Mitat Rasimi, who is said to have underworld links, had been driving a car at the time of his murder.

He was found dead with several gunshot wounds, inside a car that crashed into a pole in Dawn Avenue on 3 March 2019, according to police.

Police say the investigation remains ongoing.

Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Denis Papko, right, and his carer Gerry de Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Groot. 204085

A man and woman wanted in relation to the first stolen tricycle.

2 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

The stolen electric tricycles are identical to this model

A helmeted male wanted in relation to the first stolen tricycle.

Mitat Rasimi, who was found dead in a car in Dawn Avenue, Dandenong, on 3 March, 2019. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong's tradition of attendance voting at council elections may be overruled by the State Government.

After a lengthy meeting debate on 24 February, a majority of councillors opted to stick with the ballot-booth method for the Saturday 24 October poll.

In the end, the decision may be taken out of the council's hands.

A Local Government Bill, if passed in State Parliament in time, could make postal voting mandatory.

Greater Dandenong's decision is an exception, with 70 out of 79 Victorian councils opting for postal voting.

Cr Matthew Kirwan said Greater Dandenong's electoral results had been less swayed by 'dummy' candidates as a result.

"In the councils around us that have postal voting it is widely known that there is a large amount of dummy candidates and with postal voting dummy candidates getting a significant numbers of votes.

"Why? Because unlike attendance voting, dummy candidates in postal elections don't need to front up on election day and don't attract volunteers like real candidates."

The secret ballot box also allayed concerns that voters in multicultural communities, especially women, would be pressured to vote like the rest of their families, Cr Kirwan said.

On the other hand, a postal vote election would save Greater Dandenong Council $200,000 and give voters time to decide in the "comfort of their home", Cr Sean O'Reilly argued.

"I think 99 per cent (of voters) support voting by post rather than standing in a queue in the rain on a Saturday.

"People do not want to be fined if they are busy with something else on election day."

Sean O'Reilly is part of a minority of councillors in favour of postal voting. The State Government could make it mandatory from the 2020 election. 205440 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Cr O'Reilly said a proposal to ban howto-vote preferences in candidate statements would also reduce dummy candidates.

A council report stated that a benefit of attendance voting was the on-the-spot advice for people whose first language isn't English.

Cr Zaynoun Melhem said it was important for voters to see and talk to the candidates at the voting booths. It would deter 'unseen' candidates who were just running mates to help others win.

Cr Maria Sampey said the face-to-face interaction helped voters decide.

"Residents don't make up their minds until just as they go into vote.

"Half of them don't know who you are."

Cr Youhorn Chea said the current system sorted out which candidates wanted to "work hard" for voters.

On the other hand, attendance voting was more difficult for voters with mobility issues.

It also led to increasingly higher informal voting, less voter turnout and significant costs to candidates.

Cr Peter Brown told of the "horrendous pressure" on candidates to have helpers hand out flyers at multiple voting centres on poll day as well as at the pre-poll centre for up to four weeks.

It was impossible for candidates to be inperson at all voting booths at all times.

A 22-year-old Hallam woman has faced court over allegedly supporting an Australian fighting with declared terrorist group Islamic State in Syria.

She was arrested by Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team officers at a Hallam residence on 25 February.

The woman faced Melbourne Magistrates' Court later that day, charged with recruiting and associating with a terrorism organisation.

Police say that the woman formed an "online association" and supported an Australian male who was a member fighting for Islamic State in Syria 2015.

She was also alleged to have encouraged and tried to facilitate the travel of a person seeking to fight with IS in Syria and Iraq in 2016.

She was charged with performing services for a person intending to enter a foreign country and engaging in hostile activity, recruiting a person to take part in a terrorist organisation's activities, and associating with a terrorist organisation.

All of those offences carry the maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

The Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team comprises Australian Federal Police, Victoria Police and Australian Security Intelligence Orgnaisation members.

Police say the investigation has not uncovered a current or impending threat to the community.

Any information to the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Court hears lives ‘ruined’ in savage attack From page 1 Ms Prohaska was 73 at the time of being confronted by Murdoch wielding a large knife at her front door in the mid-afternoon on 21 May 2013.

Murdoch was on parole for the brutal assault of another woman, prosecutor Joanne Poole told the court.

As she tried to close the door, he kicked it open. The door swung back into her head, causing her to fall backwards.

Murdoch removed and threw away Ms Prohaska’s MePACS medical alarm necklace. He knelt on her chest and placed the knife to her chin, warning her not to scream.

On demand for cash, Ms Prohaska retrieved a purse from her bedroom. She handed over $70 and a debit card with PIN number.

He directed her down to the basement. At the bottom of the stairs, he placed a knife to the left side of Ms Prohaska's neck, then struck the

knife with a hammer causing a deep cut to her neck. He then repeated this on the right side of her neck..

Murdoch fled, locking the front door. He left her unconscious and bleeding heavily with lifethreatening injuries.

She regained consciousness and crawled up the staircase, retrieving and activating her MePACS alarm. She was taken to Dandenong Hospital in critical condition. Untreated, she would have died, medical experts had stated to the court.

Half an hour later in Dandenong, Murdoch withdrew $490 from an ATM using the bank card. In another 30 minutes, he attended his parole appointment with Corrections Victoria in Dandenong.

Murdoch’s “unspeakably ferocious” attacks on Ms Prohaska and Ms Blackwood a few months apart had “chilling” similarities with his violent assault of Karen Cheeseman in 2006, Mr

CHEAPEST FLOORING/DECKING

Papas told the court. The accused had been on parole for the attack on Ms Cheeseman when he preyed on Ms Prohaska and Ms Blackwood.

A Parole Board report on 2 July 2013 recommended Murdoch’s parole cancellation and return to custody due to “poor compliance”, the court heard. This was a month before Ms Blackwood was killed.

Mr Papas submitted for a sentence of life imprisonment without parole for the two attacks.

“In the end what we are seeking is a crushing sentence because that’s the only proportionate sentence that’s available.”

Defence barrister John Shaw argued it was at the “high end of gravity”, “serious and protracted” but not the “absolute extreme” case - noting Ms Prohaska hadn’t suffered permanent brain damage or the like.

He submitted for a life sentence with a nonparole period.

The plea hearing continues on 4 March.

•฀DECKING:฀Merbau,฀Spotted฀ Gum,฀Royal฀Reds,฀Blackbutt,฀ Tallowood฀70x19฀from฀$2.05p/m,฀ 86฀x฀19,฀90x19฀from฀$3p/m฀130฀ x19,฀140x19฀from฀$5p/m •฀FlooRBoaRDS:฀Jarrah,฀ Blackbutt,฀Ironbark,฀Brush฀Box,฀ Spotted฀Gum,฀Tallowood฀,฀ Bluegum,฀Turpentine,฀Tasmanian฀ oak฀80x19,฀85x19,฀108x19,฀ 130x19,฀130x14฀from฀$2฀p/m

STOCK LIQUIDATION SALE ALL NEW TIMBER

9708 5055 0411 515 158 11 Windale St, Dandenong Mel Ref: 90 G10

12350250-RC18-17

Vote gets personal

22yo Hallam woman faces terror charge

s

Mater Christi College, Belgrave Excellence in all-girls education

Friday 28 February 9.30am Friday 13 March 9.30am Sunday 22 March 10.00am

12437641-FA08-20

Arrange a tour to discover why Mater Christi girls consistently achieve region leading VCE and vocational results. A visit will enable your family to witness our vibrant, inclusive and warm community.

School Tours

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

|

STAR JOURNAL 3

NEWS

‘Reckless’ rider caught in police net

Cops give chase

By Brendan Rees Two men who fled from a stolen car have been arrested after leading police on a wild chase from Narre Warren on Tuesday morning, 25 February.

The incident unfolded after a food delivery van was parked and left running at Fountain Gate Shopping Centre on Overland Drive when it was stolen just after 8.30am.

The bandits then dumped the van at a dead end street on Bangholme Road near Eastlink in Bangholme about 9.30am and ran from the scene, police allege.

"Police ran after two men and arrested them with the assistance of the K9 unit and Air Wing near Bangholme Road and a firearm was recovered," Victoria Police spokeswoman Leading Senior Constable Melissa Seach said.

A 21-year-old Chirnside Park man and a 31-year-old Keysborough man are currently in custody.

According to Victoria Police's Casey Eyewatch Facebook page, the stolen vehicle was fitted with a GPS device which "allowed police to begin tracking the car almost immediately" before the culprits were later found in scrub land.

"In the vehicle and near the scene police located a large amount of drugs, cash, ammunition and weapons," the post said.

Several police officers attended the scene including Highway Patrol and detectives as Worsley Road and part of Bangholme Road were blocked off.

State Emergency Service volunteers from Narre Warren and Frankston were also on scene, scouring the area for clues.

A late model white Mercedes van was seen dumped near Eastlink and a gate to a neighbouring property was also left in ruin.

Fingerprint dust residue could be seen on the van after it was examined by police - where it was found dumped next to a tree. The van

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

SES and police on scene at Worsely Road, Bangholme after a van was stolen and dumped. 205387 Pictures: GARY SISSONS

SES crews assist police in a line search. 205387

The van was searched and emptied. 205387

also had the logo 'PJ's Gourmet Express' emblazoned on the side, a bakery believed to be in Heatherton.

Neighbouring businesses in Bangholme said they weren't sure what had unfolded until they heard the police helicopter circling overhead about 9.30am.

"No one knew what was really going on. We had a couple of customers in that said the cops

were fanging it around the corners and stuff like that," owner of Cafe Platz, Nicolae Tira said.

Another business employee, Maureen Reardon, said: "It wasn't anything for anyone to be alarmed about because it was over in a few minutes, it was further up the road".

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

FACTORY DIRECT MATTRESS

TRAINandHOBBY SHOW Victorian Labour Day Long Weekend RC-Planes

SAT, 7th. 10am-6pm Sun, 8th 10am-5pm Mon, 9th 10am-4pm MARCH 2020 Sandown Racecourse 591-659 Princes Hwy Springvale, Vic 3171

Two men were arrested after allegedly trying to escape police by mounting a footpath in a stolen motorcycle in Springvale on Sunday 23 February.

The Solo motorbike had evaded police in Dandenong North earlier that night, police say.

Patrolling police officers later spotted a rider and passenger aboard the bike in View Road Springvale about 12.55am.

The pair allegedly tried to drive away by mounting a footpath and riding down Elaine Court.

They dumped the bike in the dead-end court, and tried to escape on foot, police say.

A large number of police were called into the area, with the Canine Unit finding the pair.

They were arrested without incident, according to police.

A 39-year-old Clayton man was charged with reckless conduct endangering life, driving in a manner dangerous, theft of motor vehicle and unlicensed driving.

He was remanded to appear at Dandenong Magistrates' Court on 3 March.

A 20-year-old Silvan man was released pending summons for theft of motor vehicle.

RC-Boats RC-Rock Crawlers RC Drift Cars RC-Tanks RC-DRONES Model Trains LEGO Trains LEGO Ultimate-RC Displays, Traders and more.

Air Display-Sat Market - Sunday

•฀10฀Year฀Manufacturers฀Guarantee •฀Limited฀Stock฀Only

OPEN 7 DAYS FREE DELIVERY

$349 QUEEN/DOUBLE

MANY MORE INSTORE SPECIALS

4/50 Princes Hwy, Eumemmerring 9am - 5pm

Ph 9792 0007 0410 981 966 12384099-CG15-18

Adults (16+ years) $20 Children (4-15 years) $5 Children 3 & Under Free

Collect the Swap Cards Children 15 years and younger get in free with a 2020-2021 swap card.

Swap cards available from Model & Hobby Shops-FREE

On-Line prepaid Tickets Adults $15 and Children $5 plus online fee.

Service fee and Terms & Conditions apply

www.everbrite.com.au/e/the-train-and-hobby-show-2020-tickets-781345470295?ref=elink

www.trainandhobbyshow.com.au www.facebook.com/trainandhobby 4 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

TEETH MISSING? Consider a different type of partial Denture

• Lightweight All Health Funds • Flexible, Invisible “claim here and pay the • Thin and Strong gap only” • Comfortable

CALL US for a FREE DENTURE CHECK KEYSBOROUGH DENTURE CLINIC

1202241-PB42-15

12443125-NG10-20

Are your

PHONE 9798 4400

337 Cheltenham Road Keysborough 3173 www.dentureclinics.net dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

No salvation on Hel path

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A convicted drug trafficker has been refused bail after being allegedly found with about seven grams of suspected crystal meth in a parked car in Springvale South.

Sophorn Hel, 34, from Springvale South, was intercepted by police after he U-turned and parked a 2017 silver Mercedes in Coomoora Road about 1.50am on Tuesday 25 February.

He allegedly said he was waiting for a friend, a court bail hearing was told on the same day.

From his pants, Hel produced a zip-lock

bag of what police believed to be crystal meth, Victoria Police remand liaison officer Sergeant Chris Marlow told the court.

In a police interview, Hel allegedly admitted to possessing the meth for "personal use" but not for trafficking.

He was asked about his phone messages depicting the sale of meth over the past three months, such as "Brother do you have stuff yet?" and "How much can I give you for 700?"

Hel allegedly replied that he gave half of the 'ice' to friends.

Police were told Hel was unemployed but for cash-in-hand work as a home-based me-

chanic, Sgt Marlow said.

However the suspected ice user's primary income source was drug-dealing, police believed.

Hel told the court that the last time he had a "legitimate" job was 2008. He got fired as a white-goods assembler and decided to work on cars.

"I've got a neighbour who works on cars at home as well and he was making good money."

In arguing for bail, the father-of-three said he was living with and caring for his parents at a "stable" address.

Hel has been on a community corrections order since October as a result of his fourth conviction for unlicensed driving.

Hel had admitted to driving unlicensed again on 25 February, according to police.

Magistrate Tony Burns said Hel's two previous trafficking convictions, and 10 previous failures to answer bail were "troubling".

Hel had failed to show "compelling reasons" for bail. His history suggested he was an unacceptable risk of re-offending, Mr Burns said.

Hel was remanded in custody for a mention hearing at Dandenong Magistrates' Court on 31 March.

The unique retirement home where cats get the cream

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Residents of a feline retirement village lapped up the attention of Greater Dandenong's mayor during a special afternoon tea on 25 February.

Mayor Jim Memeti was paying a visit to Australian Animal Protection Society's Cat Retirement Village in Dandenong South.

The village is home to seven cats in their senior years, Billy-Jean, Precious, Topsy, Blacky, Cougar, Sandy and Molly.

They moved in after their owners either died or moved into aged care themselves.

In 1993, the village opened in Homeleigh Road, Keysborough out of the need for a "comfy and suitable" facility for bequeathed cats, an AAPS spokesperson said.

It is now housed at the society's temporary site in Dandenong South.

Meanwhile this summer, the shelter has been forced to refuse cat admissions due to an "inundatation" of unwanted litters of kittens and cats.

It is urging owners to desex their pets to curb the population catastrophe.

"Whilst our adoption figures have been good, just this morning a mother and five babies were left at our front gate bringing our numbers back to capacity," the spokesperson said.

"This is why desexing is incredibly important, especially if the cat is indoor/outdoor."

Mayor Jim Memeti, Australian Animal Protection Society general manager Megan Seccull and Blacky at the afternoon tea. 205285 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.

Jury St

na

sh

Fre

ew ay

Eastlink 2k

Wellington Rd

Dr

Mo

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

Wetlands Golf ‘n’ Games

rack

Waverley Park

y Drive

Haverb

Monash 2k

Gray St

Whalle

Dandenong Valley Parklands

Mulgrave Reserve

Jackson Rd

Jells Rd

Woodin ton Dri v e g

Garnett Rd

Presentation: Starts at 11.30am Village Living, Home Care and Aged Care

Gladeswood Park

Call to book an open day tour Retirement Living 9795 9166 Aged Care Living 9795 9154 www.cumberlandview.com.au

cumberland view better living, quality living

101 Whalley Drive, Wheelers Hill 12441219-LB09-20

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

|

STAR JOURNAL 5

NEWS

Grand opening celebrated

By Brendan Rees A not-for-profit group supporting people from culturally diverse backgrounds has officially opened its doors in Dandenong.

The United Cultural Support Inc (UCSI) held an office warming ceremony for their new Walker Street office on Saturday 15 February, which was attended by about 30 people including community leaders - who joined a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the occasion.

The office, which consists of members of the ethnic Hazara community, will aim to promote social inclusion and active community engagement.

The City of Casey and Greater Dandenong has the highest Afghanistan-born population in Victoria and the Hazara are one of Afghanistan’s largest ethnic minorities.

President of the UCSI Sadia Ali addressed the audience, saying the new office volunteers would help support the community through educational programs, information sessions including spreading awareness about health, employability and integration of diverse communities.

“UCSI will continue to serve the community, hear your concerns and act upon your proposals,” Ms Ali said.

She said the volunteers would also empower community members, help support their self-con?dence and self-esteem focusing on women, youth, children and disadvantaged members of community.

Other services include supporting people with special needs, disabilities and at-risk behaviours; family violence, child abuse, drug addiction, gambling and more.

Among those to attend the ceremony was Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams who described Ms Ali as a positive role model to women and girls in the community.

“Sadia and the many UCSI volunteers are doing their bit by helping our newly arrived

Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti and other political dignitaries join the ceremony.

Hazara community with employment pathways,” she said.

Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti expressed his congratulations to the UCSI team and their dedication to the community.

Cranbourne MP Pauline Richards, also delivered a speech, saying: “I am incredibly inspired by our community’s stories of resilience and passion for change”.

Federal MP for Bruce Julian Hill was also de-

Cops uncover crop-house

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Police uncovered an alleged cannabis crophouse in Sullivan Street Springvale on Saturday 22 February.

A triple-0 call had reported a suspected burglary, with a car seen in the property’s driveway and a loud bang heard.

Police arrived about 3am to find the threebedroom house’s front door kicked open.

Inside was a “sophisticated” cannabis growing set-up but no people were around, according to police.

One of the bedrooms contained 12 cannabis plants, in another room were empty pots where 12 plants had been “freshly cut”.

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

SEJ OF I

Members of the community gather for the launch of the new United Cultural Support Inc office in Dandenong.

Sharp rises on the job front

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Job-seekers are being dressed and primed for success in two new programs in Dandenong.

One of them is Groomed To Go, a not-forprofit group that provides professional outfits and a styling service for job interviewees.

Based at the Skills and Jobs Centre in Lonsdale Street, it also has attire for court appearances, funerals, parolees or an emergency wardrobe for those fleeing family violence.

The other program is the Employment Readiness Project - a careers counselling service that helps to overcome specific barriers to gaining a job or further training.

It uses an Employment Readiness Scale

(ERS) to assess jobseeker work readiness, and creates an action plan to improve.

The ERS will be trialled to help up to 300 jobseekers at Chisholm Skills and Jobs Centre, the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre and Springvale Learning and Activity Centre.

The two programs were a partnership between City of Greater Dandenong’s Community Revitalisation Project and Chisholm Skills & Jobs Centre.

They were launched by Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams with Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti, councillor Matthew Kirwan, Chisholm Institute chief commercial officer Noel Lyons and Groomed to Go president Marian Grandy.

2/27A A’BECkETT RoAd BUNYIP

com.au

12379952-RC08-18

REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au

Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108.

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution PROUDLY numbers, areas and coverage are estimates AUSTRALIAN OWNED & only. For our terms and conditions please visit INDEPENDENT www.starcommunity.com.au

Real Estate

IMMACULATE BUNYIP UNIT

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

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

T 16P_

lighted to join the launch, which he said would provide new Afghan Hazara migrants support and information - “and educating everyone that women in Australia are equal, with the same legal and political rights as everyone else”.

City of Casey Citizen of the Year Bassir Qadiri, Victoria Police local area commander Inspector Sharon McCrory, former Casey councillor Damian Rosario, and various community leaders and representatives of community organisations were also in attendance.

Timeless Brick veneer unit on 324sqm, offering 3bd, 2bth & dbl R/C garage. Family lounge at front of home with central kitchen - gas stove, electric oven, dishwasher & breakfast bar open to the dining/living space. Access to spacious yard & alfresco area through glass slider. Ducted heating & R/C S/System for year round comfort. Short walk to Bunyip CBD for Vline service, Doctor, Supermarket, Cafes, Restaurants & so much more! Only 5 units on this immaculately kept complex –Act Quick!

View: 7/03/2020 11am-11:30am $420,000 - $450,000 Internet Id: 20495272 View property and more details at www.sej.com.au

5622 3800 Cnr Smith & Queen St, Warragul

www.sej.com.au

Glen selects from the professional-clothes rack at Groomed To Go. 204232 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Glen looks the part in a Groomed To Go outfit.

204232 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

REGISTER TODAY & RECEIVE

FOR WORKWEAR WITH TRUE AUSSIE GRIT 6 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

YOUR FIRST WORKWEAR ORDER

12442431-NG10-20

.COM.AU

10 % OFF dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Powerless to save history

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A "rare remnant" of Keysborough's 19-century heritage appears under ruin and under threat.

The Keysborough Methodist Church built at 176 Chapel Road in 1877 has fallen into disrepair behind a cordoned fence.

During recent years of neglect, its striking Gothic structure, coloured stained-glass windows and shingle roof have been noticeably marred.

Although listed as significant in Greater Dandenong's heritage study, the council is effectively powerless to compel the owner, the Uniting Church, to preserve the building.

Heritage overlay protections were only triggered when development or demolition was proposed, Greater Dandenong city planning director Jody Bosman told a 24 February council meeting.

"Unfortunately (the council) can't direct owners to protect structures from decay."

Under building regulations, officers could only order owners to make a building safe which may require as little as cordoning off the area from public access, Mr Bosman said.

"Effectively there's no intervention that officers can make to prevent the building falling into disrepair."

His best suggestion was for the community to lobby the Uniting Church.

Councillor Matthew Kirwan said there were rumours the church was planning to let it decay until there was "no heritage value left".

At that point, under Victoria's "incredibly weak" heritage laws, the owner could simply "knock it down to build townhouses".

Cr Kirwan said it was important to stand up for one of Keysborough's "rare" historical buildings.

It is a landmark of what was one of South East Melbourne's first areas farmed by Europeans, he said.

The 1877 Keysborough Methodist Church building, right, decays behind a fence. 205455 "Built almost 150 years ago in 1877 this is rare physical remnant of the history of Keysborough and in particular of community life in Keysborough in the 19th century."

Dandenong and District Historical Society president Christine Keys said it would be a "grave shame" to lose the "only public building of pioneering status" in Keysborough.

She also noted the "old Foster" farmhouse and the former schoolhouse, both on Chapel Road, were effectively disappearing within housing estates.

Her ancestors, the Keys family, were trustees, fundamental in building and managing the church.

Its three stained glass memorials were installed in memory of John, William and Thomas Keys and their families.

A Uniting Church spokesperson said the building was "unsafe" and "neither used or needed" by its congregation. "(The) building itself has no formal heritage standing.

"In its current state it has been deemed unsafe and would require a significant amount of money spent on it to change that status.

"The local congregation and the Presbytery of Port Philip East continue to look at options for the future of the site."

The neighbouring newer church building was however in regular use by the congregation and an associated charity, the spokesperson said.

"That building has had substantial repairs in recent years to ensure that it fulfills its current need."

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Damage to stained-glass windows and roof is visibly obvious. 205455

VALLEY VILLAGE MEWS RETIREMENT VILLAGE 112 STUD ROAD DANDENONG •฀Units฀available฀for฀sale฀now •฀Purchase฀your฀unit฀by฀Strata฀Title •฀Join฀in฀with฀Social฀Activities •฀Keep฀it฀with฀exercise฀programs •฀Superb฀Parklands฀to฀take฀your฀pet฀ and meet residents •฀Emergency฀Call฀pendant •฀Community฀Bus฀for฀shopping •฀A฀village฀built฀around beautiful฀parkland

villagemews@iinet.net.au

Fax: 9793 7154

www.valleyvillagemews.com.au

Call in to meet our friendly staff to show you why you should make Valley Village Mews your home. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

|

12442888-SN10-20

Phone: 9793 3354

STAR JOURNAL 7

NEWS

Sam risks ‘heart failure’

By Brendan Rees Former Casey mayor Sam Aziz says his lecturing duties at a business school in Egypt are "sporadic" as he battles a heart failure condition.

"Sometimes when I get really, really sick it's very, very hard to maintain any sort of regular teaching commitment. But anyway we'll get through this - I'm sure one day," Mr Aziz told Star News.

According to a legal document filed with the County Court, Mr Aziz, who is at the centre of an Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) inquiry, has an employment contract as a lecturer with Bloom Business School in Cairo until "at least July 2020".

It also claimed Mr Aziz has ongoing health conditions including a chronic heart condition; diabetes; and mental health concerns.

Mr Aziz said he had to "improve" his ejection fraction - a measurement of the percentage of blood leaving the heart each time it contracts - if he had any chance of returning to Melbourne and defending himself against allegations he pocketed $900,000 from a developer and delivered favourable property decisions.

"People with my condition, which is heart failure, have a problem with blood coming out of the heart," he told Star News. "A normal ejection fraction is about 50 per cent; mine is sitting at 16 per cent".

The besieged councillor left Australia in October after IBAC investigators executed search warrants on his properties in Berwick and Roxburgh Park.

A significant amount of Mr Aziz's personal property, including documents and electronic devices were seized during the raids, the court document stated. Mr Aziz's sold his home home in Berwick prior to fleeing the country

but the sale of the house was seized as proceeds of crime - with a restraining order also in place.

As part of its application for a restraining order, IBAC's principal investigator Darren Prickett alleges Mr Aziz is suspected of committing offences including misconduct in public office, bribery of a public official, and dealing with the proceeds of crime, according to a court document filed with the County Court.

In an affidavit, which was sworn by Mr Aziz's lawyer, Jeremy Peck, of Moray and Agnew Lawyers, Mr Aziz asks the County Court for an extension of time to make an application for an exclusion order which he says is in

the "interest of justice to do so".

On 17 November last year, Mr Aziz changed his return flight from Cairo to Melbourne, from 9 December to 19 November, to defend the restraining order, however on the day of his return flight, Mr Aziz was "suffering from symptoms including heart palpitations, shortness of breath and was visibly perspiring," Mr Peck stated.

"Upon presenting himself to check-in staff on the day of his flight, Aziz declared the large amount of medication he was travelling with including supporting letters from his medical specialists," the statement read.

"Check-in staff questioned Aziz about his obvious physical distress and large amount of

Where to pick up a copy of your FREE Dandenong Star Journal!

12430926-CG45-19

EVERY TUESDAY

Former Casey mayor Sam Aziz is under an employment contract with a business school in Cairo.

medication, and Aziz was eventually refused boarding due to high risk of heart failure".

Mr Peck stated Mr Aziz attended a private examination with IBAC on 3 October for the purpose of the IBAC investigation where he "cooperated in answering all of IBAC's questions which included matters directly related to this proceeding".

The affidavit added Mr Aziz will "continue his employment with Bloom Business School in order to financially support himself, his family and to cover ordinary living expenses".

Star News tried to contact Mr Aziz for comment however in a recent interview he said: "I was called to give evidence privately come seven days before I travelled. Nothing was mentioned of me not being able to travel".

"I didn't find out about the public hearings until some three weeks after I left Australia to do the work assignment that I'm in," Mr Aziz told Star News.

Star News has made efforts to contact the business school and is awaiting a request for comment. Meanwhile, a metropolitan newspaper reported the founder and chief executive Mary Louis confirmed Mr Aziz was teaching at the school and appeared "healthy".

Mr Aziz recently told Star News: "I've been teaching a little bit" but added: "It's been very sporadic because my health".

When asked when he expected to return home he said: "I honestly don't know. I hope it's sooner rather than later. I'm not joking".

While on a trip to New York for council business last year, Mr Aziz said he was hospitalised for five days and when he returned to Melbourne in July he was further hospitalised for eight days.

"I'm getting ongoing treatment but it's not something that can be magically fixed overnight," he said.

8 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

LOOKING BACK

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

100 years ago 4 March 1920 Too smart for him A nice young man resolved to present his beloved girl, with a pair of shoes. He accordingly procured her show size and purchased a 10/pair. In order to make the present more valuable he marked 25/- upon the soles of the shoes and at his request the clerk, who was friend of his, put a receipt for 25/- into one of them. The presentation was made, and the lovers were happy as lovers should be.

The girl examined the shoes in the day light and was not satisfied. She was convinced her lover had been cheated in the purchase of such a pair of shoes at that price. She decided to go and change the shoes and obtain a better bargain. Next day she appeared

in the shop and selected a pair of shoes at 15/- and politely requested the clerk to take back the shoes for which her friend had paid 25/-. The receipt was produced as proof and the boot man found it impossible to argue.

The smart girl took her 15/- pair of shoes obtained 10/- in cash and went home happy.

The boot seller sent a fresh bill to the young man, who promptly paid the difference, but he thinks that girl may prove too smart for him in the future.

50 years ago 3 March 1970 Lindsays here soon Dandenong - Lindsays $1m store will open in Thomas St Dandenong on March 17. The "Sell it for Less" store with a selling space of 1600 sq ft will head a new arcade comprising

41 small shops. Hanover Holdings Pty Ltd is the developing company for the arcade Hanover also assisted with the building of arcades at Footscray and Warrnambool. A spokesman for Hanover Holdings said the new complex would add "new vitality " to Dandenong's commercial area.

20 years ago 6 March 2000 That got her going Busy Dingley mother of six Mrs Jennifer Haydon received one of her best Christmas presents ever when a letter arrived saying she had been selected as one of the Sydney 2000 torchbearers. "I'm so excited. I have started practising and jogging around the football oval in Marcus Rd Dingley." Mrs Haydon will carry the torch for 500 metres in

Keysborough on Monday July 31.

5 years ago 2 March 2015 Choir rises to build bridges with one voice People from all walks of life unite as one voice in Noble Park each Wednesday evening. Greater Dandenong choir welcomes singers from all ages, faiths, cultures and back grounds. Its aim is to bridge the gap between members who experience disadvantage and those who are more fortunate rather than entrenching marginalisation by isolating and disempowered people. They can network and share during supper following rehearsals, creating opportunities for friendships, mentors, well being, self esteem, new skills and employment.

A professional conductor leads the choir and it regularly performs at community events.

NEWS

Foy family’s Holden roots

By Danielle Kutchel Working at General Motors in Dandenong was a good job for a young lad like John Foy. The long-time Narre Warren North resident worked in the factory for four years in the early 1960s as a spray painter.

Each day he would travel from Clayton to General Motors Station in Dandenong for his shift, as he didn't have a car when he first started the job.

"Having a house was more important than having a car ... I put all my money into having a house, not wasting my money on motor vehicles!" he quipped.

The spray painting job was ideal for Mr Foy as it allowed him to work seven days a week when he wanted to.

There was plenty of overtime too which helped him get set up financially.

His role came to an end though when Holden workers went on strike.

"They were out of work for a month, and when you've got a family and mouths to feed you can't be out of work for that much time, so I went hunting for a new job," Mr Foy explained.

"I never went back to GM." Following the announcement of Holden's exit from Australia on Monday 17 February, Mr Foy told the Journal that Holden was, in a way, "an Australian icon".

He still owns a 1972 Holden which he hopes to one day get on the road again.

But that's not his only connection to General Motors.

The factory was actually built on Mr Foy's grandfather's farm.

The dairy farm used to stretch from where the freeway meets the highway, along the highway to Eumemmerring Creek.

Grandfather Foy also had land on the south side of the railway line.

A driveway led straight to the house, with the dairy down the back, and, despite all the change and upheaval in the area over several decades, Mr Foy said a big gum tree which once stood sentry at the entrance to the farm is still there.

Former Holden worker John Foy. 164864

Subscribe to the

Dandenong Star Journal Digital Edition

FREE DANDENONG

Monday, 11 June, 2018

DANDENONG

Eyes overhead catch speedsters

Rugby star Oneata shines

PAGE 5

SPORT

Monday, 11 June, 2018

40¢ Inc. GST

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

com.au

property

Property Lift out

/DandenongStarJournal

Afghan star's bound for Dandy

Eyes overhead catch speedsters

Rugby star Oneata shines

PAGE 4

PAGE 5

SPORT

@StarJournal_SE

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

His life for others

By Casey Neill

Lee Tarlamis.

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

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

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

“I didn’t do it to get acknowledgement.

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

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

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

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

throughout those two years,” he said.

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

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

Initially that was through the Keysborough Learning Centre.

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

12327237-ACM42-16

12389127-RC23-18

SERVICE QUALITY ADVICE Curtains Swags & Tails Holland Blinds Venetians Roman Blinds

“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.”

INTEGRITY HONESTY PRICE 25% Off

Stock Curtain Honey Comb Blinds Blind and Screen Fabrics Panel Glides Shutters Pelmets Motorised Outdoor Blinds

X 250d Diesel PROGRESSIVE From $59,900 drive away.* *Terms at mbberwick.com.au.

VISIT

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au/subscribe 10 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

property

Going for goal in the world game

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

40¢ Inc. GST

com.au

Property Lift out

12442984-NG10-20

Afghan star's bound for Dandy PAGE 4

@StarJournal_SE

201902226269-AM10-19

/DandenongStarJournal

12389421-SN23-18

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Corner of Wellington & Jells Roads, Wheelers Hill, VIC 3150

(03) 9582 4600 | mulgravecc.com.au dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … NEFF AT HARVEY NORMAN

Steam ahead with NEFF The kitchen is the heart of every home. A place to meet, eat and get creative. And there is no better brand to trust in the kitchen than NEFF. The renowned German manufacturer creates quality home appliances that help bring out the best in every home cook.

NEFF appliances make time in the kitchen a daily pleasure, anticipate all your needs and marry innovation with design, style and versatility.

Founded in 1877 in Bretten in Germany, today the company is one of Europe’s leading manufacturers of built-in appliances. The product range covers all modern kitchen appliances, including ovens, cooktops, rangehoods and dishwashers.

For 140 years NEFF has seen the user as the most important part of the kitchen. The brand continues to set new standards with inspired ideas, especially in its core competence areas of cooking and baking.

Examples of NEFF’s continuing innovation are the CircoTherm® hot air system and Slide&Hide;® fully retracting oven door.

SLIDE&HIDE® With Slide&Hide; nothing gets in your way anymore, not even the oven door. When open, the oven door disappears beneath the 71L oven compartment, giving you full access to baste and taste without any obstruction. This true innovation from NEFF is also a real space saver - perfect for the compact kitchen.

INGREDIENTS PUDDINGS 1 cup self raising flour 1/4 cup dutch cocoa 1/3 cup caster sugar 60g butter, melted 1 egg 1 tsp vanilla essence 200ml buttermilk 1/3 cup finely chopped bittersweet chocolate

Discover the joys of steam cooking with NEFF. taste like roast meat and the muffins will taste like muffins. CircoTherm® works by drawing air in from the oven via a powerful stainless steel fan. It then heats up the air and forces it right back into the oven cavity through strategically placed ducts in the rear wall.

Home appliance department proprietor at Harvey Norman Richmond Craig Gee encourages customers to book in for a pre or post purchase NEFF cooking demonstration at their local store to fully appreciate the NEFF difference.

“A pre purchase demo allows customers to gain a hands-on feel for cooking with NEFF and the results. The demos are great for appreciating the technology involved, particularly the NEFF steam cooking function which features in most ovens,“ Mr Gee said.

“Post purchase, people like to come back for a refresher and get more detailed knowl-

edge about their oven. These demonstrations take it to the next level in understanding.“ Mr Gee said customers loved NEFF because of its German heritage, overall workmanship, technology and guaranteed four year warranty on all appliances - this includes parts and labour.

“NEFF is for those who want something at the top end of the market that will last a long time and cook precisely. They are beautiful products,“ Mr Gee said.

Take advantage NEFF’s current promotion and save $600 on the pyrolytic Slide&Hide;® oven that was the top performer in a recent Choice test (B57CR22N0B). The oven, originally priced at $2,799, is just $2,199 until 31 March 2020 or while stocks last. Conditions apply.

To find out more about NEFF talk to the experts at your local Harvey Norman store.

SAUCE 1 tbsp instant coffee 300ml boiling water 3/4 cup brown sugar 2 tbsps Dutch cocoa METHOD Preheat oven on CircoTherm to 180°C and lightly grease 6 x 200ml individual ramekins.

Sift flour, cocoa and caster sugar into a mixing bowl. Whisk melted butter, egg, vanilla essence and buttermilk together. Make a well in the centre of the flour then whisk in buttermilk mixture, mixing until smooth. Fold in chopped chocolate.

Divide mixture evenly between ramekins. Stand ramekins on a baking tray - this will make it easier when putting puddings in and out of the oven.

SAUCE Dissolve coffee in the boiling water then add brown sugar and cocoa, stirring until mixture is combined.

Carefully pour mixture over the back of a metal spoon directly onto pudding batter.

Bake for 15 - 18 minutes or until puddings are firm and sauce forms underneath the cake mixture.

Stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Recipe from NEFF Home Appliances

12441234-SG10-20

CIRCO THERM® With your NEFF oven you can cook, roast and bake completely different dishes simultaneously on up to four levels. Thanks to the CircoTherm® hot air system you can create a whole menu of completely different dishes without flavours intermingling. The roast meat will

MOCHA SELF SAUCING PUDDINGS Serves: 6 Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 15 -18 minutes

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

|

STAR JOURNAL 11

FOCUS ON … EDUCATION CHOICES

Helping students flourish Maranatha Christian School is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2020.

Located on Rix Road, Officer, the school caters for Early Learning Centre (ELC) to Year 6. It was originally founded in Doveton before expanding to Endeavour Hills and then Officer in 2006.

Jenny Rus, the school’s Head of Site and Deputy Principal, is an exceptional leader who was recently selected as a finalist in the National Excellence in Teaching Awards.

“This year, Maranatha celebrates 50 years in Christian education, and we are looking forward to ongoing celebrations throughout the year. We are committed to continuous improvement which enables our students to flourish academically," Jenny said.

The Maranatha model places emphasis on academic growth and student wellbeing, setting a firm foundation for students to discover and develop their God-given gifts, abilities and character for a life of service, wherever that may lead.

“We have a strong focus on teacher training so they can be well equipped and at their best.

We invest into our teachers and their personal development as we believe that learning is a lifelong skill.”

The school's Early Learning Centre recently underwent a detailed National Quality Assessment and Rating visit, receiving a rating of Exceeding National Quality Standards.

“It is fantastic to receive this recognition and a privilege to be part of a professional team with high expectations and standards.

Our early learning programs and exceptional emphasis on early year’s education has seen our ELC achieve the highest rating possible and we couldn’t be more delighted," Jenny said.

The Offricer student leadership team.

“It’s not common to receive these ratings.

This is a fantastic achievement for Maranatha and is a testament to our commitment to providing the best to all our students.”

“It’s amazing to see the difference between the Preps that come through our ELC as opposed to children that don’t. Their attention span, writing skills and fine motor skills are brilliant.”

Maranatha also has exceptional sporting

and performing arts facilities.

“Our main oval is comparable to the size of the MCG and we have a number of other playing fields. We also have an indoor hall for sports and host many sporting events on site.

"Our performing arts center was built to include great acoustics, which lends itself to a professional theatre experience. The facilities are also made available to the local community.

Li

ttle

“From an academic perspective, we are extremely proud that our DUX received a 99.85 ATAR which is a significant achievement, with 80% of students placed in the top half of the state. Preparing students for this kind of success starts at ELC and primary school.”

For enrolment enquiries please call Janet De Jong on 9709 7217 or go to Marantha.vic. edu.au

F i s h T ales

Tuesdays from 9.15 - 10.15 am

Open Day

Come and join the fun in the library during school term.

Free community program open to all families with children from 0-5 years old.s old

Songs

Saturday 21 March 10am-2pm

Stories

Rhymes

Craft Passionate about student wellbeing and academic growth ELC – Year 12

Doveton

Officer Endeavour Hills Book a tour online maranatha.vic.edu.au

Officer 62 Rix Road Officer 9709 7310

Doveton 146 Kidds Road Doveton 9709 7350

12442772-LB10-20

12 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON ‌ EDUCATION CHOICES

An environment of respect

By Danielle Kutchel St Paul Apostle North Primary School is a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment that encourages positive relationships by developing interpersonal skills, self-confidence and respect for all.

It is a welcoming Catholic school where the Gospel values of Jesus Christ are lived and celebrated.

St Paul Apostle North recognises that all children are individuals and that learning and success is different for everyone.

The school nourishes and fosters the needs of each student to ensure that they become the very best versions of themselves.

St Paul Apostle North is a school that is enriched culturally and through spiritual diversity, and that embraces and celebrates this rich diversity.

It aims to provide a learning environment that engages and empowers all students.

Students will compete for the Paul Wade Trophy.

Soccer gala Budding soccer stars will have their chance to shine at an upcoming school-based event.

On Wednesday 18 March, St John's Regional College will be staging a Gala Soccer Day with all of its primary feeder schools (St Mary's, St Anthony's, St Paul's Apostle North, St Paul's Apostle South, St Francis De Sales, St Kevin's and Holy Family) participating.

Facilitated by St John's VCAL students and The Australian Football Co, the tournament will involve both boy and girl teams on St John's Regional College's new synthetic soccer pitch playing for the Paul Wade Junior Boys Trophy and the Paul Wade Junior Girls Trophy.

Paul Wade is an ex-student of St John's Regional College and former Captain of the Australian Soccerroos.

Paul has kindly accepted the invitation to present the wining teams with their trophies on the day.

The wellbeing of students, staff and families are at the heart of our school, which holds the care, safety and wellbeing of children and young people as a central and fundamental responsibility of Catholic education.

This commitment is drawn from, and inherent to, the teaching and mission of Jesus Christ, with love, justice and the sanctity of each human person at the heart of the Gospel.

St Paul Apostle North Primary School has a universal expectation for the protection of children.

It is resolutely committed to ensuring that all those engaged in Catholic education in Victoria promote the inherent dignity of children and young people and their fundamental right to be respected and nurtured in a safe school environment.

St Paul Apostle North Primary School is located at 76 Mossgiel Park Drive, Endeavour Hills and welcomes all school tours anytime.

Please call 9700 6068 or email principal@spanhills.catholic.edu.au to arrange a date to visit.

The soccer pitch is ready.

Paul will also teach the students some valuable soccer skills.

St John's Regional College looks forward to welcoming students for the event.

The St John's Regional College Soccer Gala will be held at 5-11 Caroline Street, Dandenong from 9.30am-2.30pm on Wednesday 18 March. Contact the school on 8793 2000 or visit www.sjrc.vic.edu.au

St Paul Apostle North offers a safe, welcoming Catholic school environment. 195407

Open Mornings:

12440311-NG10-20

March 6th and 18th 9:30am - 11:30am Call to book a tour

9700 6068 dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

12442775-SG10-20

Enrol now for 2021-2022

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

|

STAR JOURNAL 13

ENTERTAINMENT

The art of conversation

By Cam Lucadou-Wells In the age of online communication, Melbourne artist Tai Snaith has done the more “radical” thing of speaking face-to-face with other artists as part of her vast podcast series.

Snaith is one of eight Australian female artists featured in SHE - Greater Dandenong’s annual exhibition opening 27 February.

Her paintings and sculptures sprang from conversations shared withwomen and nonbinary artists about the “how and why” of making art,as part of her A World of One’s Own podcast series She likened the chats to an “informal mentorship” - an invigorating chance to meet and talk face-to-face rather than “chat online and send emojis”.

“Sadly it’s a radical thing to do.

“It’s how we’re meant to be as humans.

We’re meant to feed off each other and connect with each other.

“It’s sad that we’re so disconnected at times.”

Three of Snaith's works feature in SHE - one of them a sculpture Reference Plait in homage to conceptual artist Agatha Gothe-Snape.

Gothe-Snape had talked about juggling the different strands of her life. She keeps these roles even and well-braided like a plait, she had told Snaith.

Snaith responded symbolically with a clay plait stretched over a velvet background.

In another work, she inspired by a talk with visual artist Chaco Kato about involving the community’s in her giant weavings as part of the Slow Art Collective.

Her third work derives from a chat with South Sudanese-Australian photographer Atong Atem, who spoke about being part of a culture that’s often unrepresented in the art world.

The podcasts’ title borrow from author Virginia Woolf’s essay A Room of One’s Own - in

Tai Snaith with Reference Plait - a work inspired by a talk with artist Agatha Gothe-Snape. which she coined “a woman must have money and a room of her own if she is to write fiction”.

Snaith recorded her first podcast series in her bedroom, inviting 13 well-known artists such as Patricia Piccinini, Sally Smart and Lou Hubbard for a cup of tea and a chat.

Her second podcast inspired a successful solo exhibition in Ballarat.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

204244

Other artists at SHE 2020 are Deanne Gilson, Alana Hunt, Vonda Keji, Lily Mae Martin, Kumantjayi Nangala, Tiffany Parbs and Nyaruot Ruth Ruach.

SHE is at Walker Street Art Centre and Gallery, corner Walker and Robinson streets Dandenong from 27 February-4 April, with a launch on 29 February, 2pm-4pm.

Each Tuesday is SHE Reads, a free storytime and morning tea featuring female authors.

Snaith will read from her childrens book You Might Find Yourself on 3 March, 11am-12pm. greaterdandenong.com/section/ Details: 32776/she or 9706 8441.

WHAT’S ON Daytime Book Club at The Open Door

World Day of Prayer

Come along and experience a wide variety of books, challenge your mind and share your review in a friendly group discussion. The book we will be discussing is Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman. All welcome even if you don't get a chance to read the book.

When: Thursday 5th March 11am - 12pm.

Where: 110 Ann Street, Dandenong 3175. A gold coin is welcome. For more details contact Jo or Tayla on 9791 8664 or theopendoor@ssjg.org.au

The service for this year is at St. John’s Anglican Church, 27 Childers Street, Cranbourne at 10am with refreshments afterwards. The country that prepared the service is Zimbabwe. Everyone is welcome.

Friday 6th March at 10am. Contact Dianne 0409435769.

·

·

Chamber Business Awards Showcase Featuring Adam Treloar, Dandenong homegrown sports star, presenting on leadership, performance and overcoming obstacles. Join us for an afternoon tea presentation and chat with Adam Treloar and outstanding local business and youth enterprise nominees. Our Chamber Awards showcase events offer you networking, inspiration and engagement with our local business community.

Date: Thursday, 26 March, arrivals from 4:15pm for networking and presentation: 4:30-6:30pm. Venue: At The Well, 12 Jayco Dr, Lyndhurst. Cost: Chamber Members $37.00, non-members $47.00 *plus booking fees. RSVP: Tuesday 24 March 2020.

For more information, please contact Tamara Moore on 9768 3283 or tamara@greaterdandenongchamber.com.au

·

Hallam Community Learning Centre AGM The Hallam Community Learning Centre shall be holding their Annual General Meeting on Thursday the 12th March, 2020 at 1pm. Light afternoon tea available afterwards, all welcome.

Call 9703 1688 or email admin@hallamclc. com.au for catering purposes.

·

Community Crime Forum Neighbourhood Watch Greater Dandenong Community Crime Forum featuring guest speaker Acting Stg Tim Sullivan GD Local Crime desk [burglaries & fingerprinting) & Stg Andrew Nis14 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

bet (Ballistic Unit) finishing his presentation from Nov Forum.

Wednesday 18th March, 7.30pm sharp. Paddy O'Donoghue Centre, 18 Buckley St Noble Park. Info please call Dawn Vernon 0407 32 5030 or email president@nhwgreaterdandenong.org.

·

Dinner with a VIEW Dandenong Evening VIEW Club will meet on Tuesday, 3 March, for Dinner at the Dandenong RSL, 44-50 Clow Street, at 7pm. We are celebrating the Club's 34th Birthday. Guest speaker Jennie Barnes will speak about Last Expressions - (Creative Caskets). 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.

·Red Cross Donations

Hallam Friends of Red Cross will be setting up a table for donations for Red Cross Calling at Spring Square Shops in Hallam.

Friday March 6. From 10am to 2pm. Raffle tickets $1 ea and raffle will be drawn on the day. Enquires to Betty on 9774 0194.

·

Wednesday evenings from 7pm. Contact Paul for more information on 0406786242.

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

The exploration is carried out in a variety of activities: Meditations: Awareness/Centering Prayer/Guided Imagery/Day long Retreats; Art of Soul; Tai Chi; Book club (afternoon and evening session); Creative Writing Group; 500 Club; Gospel Workshop; Cooking workshops (Trish's Table); Sing-a-long; 'Talks on' ... Spirituality; Card Making; A Pilgrim's Walk. Our workshops re-commence on Tuesday 29 January and we invite you to join us to enjoy time for yourself.

Call Trish or Jo on 9791 8664 for more information. The Open Door, 110 Ann Street, Dandenong 3175. Most workshops are a suggested gold coin donation.

·

University of the Third Age

Check out chess

U3ADandenong is looking for new members who wish to participate in a range of over 40 educational, cultural and physical activity programmes.

For further information phone 9546 2997, or look up our website www.dandenongu3a.org/

Dandenong chess club seeks players! Check them out at The Albion Hotel.

Voices of Casey are looking forward to an excit-

·

·

Voices of Casey

ing program of song for 2020. We are a nonauditioned mixed community choir and have an eclectic range of music. Our Artistic Music Director is Dr. Jonathon Welch, AM. We welcome all singers. Our rehearsals for 2020 start on Monday February 3 at 7.00pm at Fiddlers Green Retirement Village, 57 Gloucester Ave., Berwick.

Why not come and have a look and try us out.

Further details from Paulien 0412 741 195 or maritimes.1@hotmail.com

·

The March Charge Cancer Council is encouraging Victorians to get moving this March by taking part in The March Charge and setting themselves a walking, running or moving challenge for the month. Participants can Charge as an individual or compete in a team by setting a kilometre or hour goal and moving toward it throughout the month while fundraising for Cancer Council.

Head online to join the Charge at www.themarchcharge.com.au

·

Al-Anon Family Groups This group offers help and support to family and friends of problem drinkers at weekly meetings.

Seminar room 4 at Dandenong Hospital, David Street, Wednesdays 8.15pm, or St Gerard's Community Centre, 71 Gladstone Road, Dandenong North, Saturdays 2pm, or Springvale Church of Christ, corner Buckingham and Windsor avenues. Fridays 10.30am. Details: 1300 252 666 or visit www.al-anon.org.au

·

Open Up Free Community Lunch Every Thursday during school term at 12 noon.

Hampton Park Uniting Church. 1 Coral Drive Hampton Park. Ph: 9799 7994.

·

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.

·

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Gun Lion’s top gong

By Nick Creely Narre South star Morteza Ali has been crowned as the Dandenong District Cricket Association's champion player of the 2019/20 season, claiming the prestigious Alan Wookey Medal.

In the count - held at the Dandenong Club on Sunday afternoon - the Lions all-rounder capped off an extraordinary Turf 1 individual season, and has been a driving force in the club's incredible rise into third spot after being promoted from Turf 2 only one year ago.

The all-rounder was at his destructive best at the top-of-the-order for the Lions throughout the season, crunching 438 runs at 33.7 in the regular season games, with a blistering 125 against North Dandenong his most prolific performance of the year.

With the ball Ali was equally as consistent, snaring 24 wickets at 15.1, with two five-wicket hauls - 5/11 against St Mary's and 5/58 against Hallam Kalora Park - often providing the huge breakthroughs in crunch games for his side.

Ali will be a major factor with the DDCA finals set to kick off this weekend, with his Lions set for a home final against reigning premiers, Buckley Ridges.

In a tight count throughout the day, Berwick star Matt Chasemore finished three votes behind on 33, after a run-soaked season for the Bears, and led the count until the final round where Ali got four votes to claim the win.

The ex-Premier Cricket great crunched 617 runs in the regular season for the Bears in his most prolific season of cricket for a couple of years.

Buckley Ridges run machine David White (30) finished in third position in the count, while Springvale South's Ateeq Javid and Berwick speedster James Wilcock rounded out the top five.

In the Turf 2 player of the year award, Dandenong West skipper Hari Krishan (31 votes) claimed the Gartside Medal by a whisker over Dingley all-rounder Matt Hague (28).

Dandenong West skipper Hari Krishan took out the Gartside Medal. 205422 Krishan has been a destructive force for the Westers in 2019/20, crunching 742 runs at 57.1, including incredible knocks of 193 and 139 in one-day fixtures, while he also scored three half-centuries and took 11 wickets, including a haul of 4/27 against Beaconsfield.

Milan Rathnayaka (27), Amal Athulathmudali (23), Callan Tout (21), Janaka Liyanabadalge (20), Ammar Bajwa (19) and Jake Cutting (18) rounded out the top-eight in the count.

The past 10 Wookey winners 2019/20 - Morteza Ali (Narre South)

·

· 2018/19 - Steve Spoljaric (Springvale South) · 2017/18 - Michael Davies (HSD) · 2016/17 - Steve Spoljaric (Cranbourne) · 2015/16 - Matt Chasemore (Cranbourne) · 2014/15 - Steve Spoljaric (Cranbourne) · 2013/14 - Steve Spoljaric (Parkfield) · 2012/13 - Alex Roberts (Dandenong West) · 2011/12 - Steve Spoljaric (Parkfield) · 2010/11 - Steve Spoljaric (Parkfield)

Burden bowls Saturday, 29 February saw Burden Park's Division 1, Section 4 bowls team journey to Croydon in perfect conditions to play the top team.

While Burden Park played some very good Bowls, Croydon just played better. The final result was Croydon 84, defeating Burden Park 64. John Smith 20 drew Mat Creighton 20, Tony Nelson 17 lost to Barry Ward 23, Wayne Frazer 12 lost to Anthony Witowski 21, and Peter Lawton 15 lost to Daniel Hudson 20.

The Division 3, Section 8 team travelled to Chelsea, and for the second week in a row was been beaten by three shots overall. Burden Park, 79 lost to Chelsea, 82. Joel Eklom 28 defeated L. Arendse 15, Ray Thomson 14 lost to R. Johnson 21, D. Dodds 22 defeated A. Rathbone 19, and Steve Lawson 15 lost to S. Favela 27.

The Division 6, Section 7 team hosted Murrumbeena Park, and suffered a defeat to a much stronger team. The younger brigade in the Burden Park team is experiencing some hard lessons as it progresses. Burden Park, 69, lost to Murrumbeena Park 96. Gil Newton 20 defeated N. Roche 17, Kezz Williams 15 lost to S. Collins 20, John Grace 21 lost to K. Williams 24, and John Templeman 21 lost to J. Coulson 35.

Last week the Journal reported how Burden Park had recruited several younger members for season 2019/20, and how those players have re-energised the club. But four of the club's more mature members, namely, Mick De Mattia, Ron (Herbie) Henderson, Paul Webb and Rob Strain have also made a huge contribution to the club.

With only one week left in the home and away season, Burden Park will be implementing social winter bowls as soon as possible.

Anyone interested in participating in winter bowls is encouraged to contact the Burden Park Bowls Club on 9546 8851.

They’re down, but not out

By Tyler Lewis

Morteza Ali claimed the prestigious Wookey Medal on Sunday. 204935 18 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

The Southside Flyers, for the first time this season, will be chasing tail heading into a do-ordie clash in Game 2 of the WNBL grand final series against the UC Capitals.

The opening game of the best of three series didn't disappoint in a seesawing affair, but the Capitals ultimately secured a key victory on the road in Game 1, 82-80.

From the outset, the contest was destined to be a nail-biter. Neither side could leap to a handy buffer as the tide changed several times, particularly in the second term.

The Flyers launched out of the blocks in the opening term, grabbing their biggest lead of the game in the first 10 minutes, before the contest ebbed and flowed throughout the entire game.

In the final term, the Capitals shifted out to their largest margin of the game, but one final surge from the Flyers ensured the Southside faithful found their voice once again.

With less than a minute to play, the Capitals' Kia Nurse put up a shot to cement the victory but it fell short.

When Mercedes Russell reeled in her ninth rebound of the night and surged the ball up the court to Leilani Mitchell to tie the game, it seemed the match had just one more twist after all, but it wasn't to be as the shot didn't fall.

While Mitchell will be disappointed her final shot didn't take the game to overtime, she had yet another brilliant all-around game with 15-points, five rebounds and five assists.

Rebecca Cole was also efficient with ballin-hand, putting up 23 points and seven assists, while Russell again had another strong night in the paint with nine rebounds, all of them on the defensive end.

The Flyers will now travel to Canberra for Game 2 on 4 March at 7pm in an effort to keep the series alive. If Southside can claim a road victory like the Capitals did, it will bring the deciding contest back home to Dandenong Stadium on Sunday, 8 March at 1pm. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Sky is the limit for Zelfy Zelfy Nazary is chasing the dream.

The Afghanistan international is playing for the Dandenong Thunder in the NPL, and chasing his dream of becoming a full-time professional player.

Like so many with aspirations of being an elite athlete, he spent the early days of his childhood in the street, dreaming of the bigtime.

"Those first days I think I was five or six those are the days I started playing football," he said.

"As I remember, I was a young kid playing on the street, and since then I have just loved the game."

Nazary grew up in Afghanistan as a youngster, before migrating to Australia with his father.

"It has been 14 or 15 years since I have been here and ever since I have been playing football, chasing the dream you could say," he said.

Since arriving in the land down under, Nazary feels it helped him enhance his ability on the pitch as it led to him pulling on his nation's threads.

"I think coming to Australia gave me the exposure to expose myself, and of course playing here has helped me a lot," he said.

"Playing in the NPL while working hard, giving myself a chance to make the national team and luckily enough in 2018 I got the call to go and represent my country.

"I was stoked, I couldn't believe it.

"When I got the phone call that I was in the squad, I called my parents, spoke with mum and dad, (and) they were buzzing, they were just as excited as I was.

"The game was in Afghanistan as well, so I went back and that was the first time I went back.

"Playing in front of the home crowd, it was

just a dream come true."

From his five matches so far for Afghanistan, Nazary has managed to squeeze one past the keeper and into the back of the net against India - a moment he will never forget, but not one he is content with. He wants more.

"When you play at the highest level, when you score it is just another feeling," he said.

"You just want to score again and the feeling... I can't describe it, it is probably the best feeling as a player.

"To score for your national team is just an amazing feeling."

He's currently plying his trade in the NPL, but Nazary's dream is to play in the A-League as a full-time professional.

"I am still chasing that dream - I am still only 25 so hopefully in the next few years I get a chance to play in the A-League or any other professional league abroad," he said.

With his dream still in the works, Nazary is working tirelessly to give himself an opportunity to go higher, while still relishing the opportunity to play in front of the Thunder faithful.

"To be honest, I just need to work hard at training and games, stay healthy and hopefully I get a chance," he said.

"The most important thing is staying injury-free and performing in games.

"Hopefully one day I get the chance.

"It is pretty special to play at Dandenong because I have a lot of friends who live in Dandenong - a lot of Afghans follow me to the games.

"They support me and it feels like playing at home - it is a nice feeling playing in Dandenong.

"The crowd helps, especially at Dandenong when you have a highly-supportive group that comes to the games.

Zelfy Nazary is working hard for the Dandenong Thunder. 204817 "Not just Afghans - at the first games we had over 2500 people.

'When you have a big crowd, it gives you en-

Gun sides set for grand final showdown

By Nick Creely Narre South Gold and Silverton are set to battle it out for some silverware after both sides advanced through to the DDCA's junior girls competition grand final on Tuesday, 3 March (tonight).

The grand final - set to be played at Strathaird Recreation Reserve - will be played by two sides who have enjoyed stellar tournaments - with both sides producing strong performances in the semi-finals on Tuesday, 25 February.

Held at Marriott Waters Reserve, in the first game, the Lions sent Heinz Southern Districts in to bat, and bowled brilliantly to hold the Cobras to 7/95 off their 17 overs, with Zola Liang (2/5), Ashlee Sims (2/8) and Meagan Balcombe (2/13) setting the tone with destructive spells of bowling.

The Lions were never really troubled, surging to victory and batting out the innings to finish 8/165, with Pravanya Pillay (22) and

skipper Ashlee Sims (23) both retiring not out in two terrific individual performances, with the pair combining for 10 boundaries.

Silverton was the other side to advance through after knocking over Narre South Navy in a high-scoring contest.

The Bakers racked up 7/137 off their 17 overs, with Kamya Mishra's (45 not out) dominant season continuing, while Vanchica Pathania (38 not out) was equally as dominant with the blade.

The Lions pushed hard to try and run down the total, but finished on 3/135 in an absolutely thrilling finish, with the Bakers just doing enough to hold their opposition off and show nerves of steel.

But it pits the two best sides against each other in what's set to be an enthralling contest, with the Narre South Gold side undefeated this season.

The two sides last played in Round 4, where the Lions flexed their muscles with a dominant

Picture: GARY SISSONS

ergy, you want to play well, you want to do well to win the game, and make them come back again to support you."

FREE 25 POINT SERVICE

MAJOR SERVICE & TUNE-UP

99

$ 99** incInc GST GST

INCLUDING: INCLUDING: • Engine oil change 5 Ltr

Silverton has advanced through to the DDCA Girls grand final on Tuesday. 199580 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

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

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

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

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

te

d

n r2

performance, but the Bakers enter the clash in seriously strong form and will be hoping to inflict the favourites with their first loss of the season on the big stage.

tra

ex

fo

5

8 $1

Proud supporter

12441393-SN08-20

WHAT’S ON at the Dandenong Stadium

12440433-LB06-20 1124822-CB12-14

By Tyler Lewis

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

Open Mon – Sun 9am – 11pm Tuesday, 3 March, 2020

|

STAR JOURNAL 19