Dandenong Star Journal - 17th March 2020

DANDENONG

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Tuesday, 17 March, 2020

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The Journal has been a passionate supporter of Greater Dandenong for 155 years. We think there are plenty of reasons to celebrate this rich, caring and innovative community. This 8 page wrap includes messages from a cross section of community leaders, educators and businesses who also think Greater Dandenong is a great place to live, work and play.

•฀Tickets฀• Thursday, 28 May 2020 - 8.00PM DRUM THEATRE, corner of Lonsdale and Walker street, Dandenong

Book at drumtheatre.com.au or 8571 1666

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$18-$36

FOCUS ON … LIVE. LOVE. DANDENONG

Community pride shines The Journal has been a passionate supporter of the Greater Dandenong community for 155 years. Since the paper’s inception in 1865, the area has changed and grown enormously to become one of the Australia’s most multi-cultural communities.

We think the residents of Greater Dandenong have a lot of which to be proud.

It’s a sentiment echoed by community leaders. For this special wrap promoting the positives happening in our great city the Journal approached leaders in the business, the arts, law enforcement and education. Here is what they had to say: Christine Keys, CGD Citizen of the Year Christine’s family has lived in Dandenong since 1845 and she says it is where she belongs.

“I love to shop at the Dandenong Market as my mother and grandmother did in the past. I can get delicacies such as quail, duck, and rabbit along with fresh fish and seafood.

“Down Lonsdale Street I can get great pork sausages from Rob’s British butcher. I can take my friends out to dinner in Dandenong to Beletti’s Italian, Afghan Rahimi in Walker Street, Basil Thai in Thomas Street and choose from a number of Indian restaurants. Nearby Springvale offers me great Vietnamese food.

“I can have a counter meal at the Albion Hotel, which has been here forever, or I can go to Thomas Street and get any spice I need and pick up hot freshly baked Turkish bread.

“I can go and see musicals, ballet, or opera in the Drum Theatre in Lonsdale Street.

“I can walk up Langhorne Street and see places of heritage and my childhood, Laurel Lodge and St James Church with their beautiful gardens. Then there is always the rejuvenated Dandenong Park to meet friends and share a barbecue.

“I can chat with my neighbours, Sadat’s family who have Turkish origins, or William whose mum and dad live in China. Then there is Dianna of Italian descent who brings me samples of her delicious cooking.

“I can take my dog, Truffles, to a number of off leash parks, we can walk along the billabongs and paths lined with gums in the Maurie Jarvis wood in Tatterson Park, Keysborough.

“I can ride or walk along the bike trails and feel I am in the country. If I am in the mood I can walk all the way to the mouth of the Patterson River where it meets the sea.

“When I was young I loved to see the Dandy pig sign near the intersection of Foster and Lonsdale streets. Now I love to see the magical lights that line the main street and enjoy the activities in Harmony Square.

“This is where I belong.”

Tanishka Sharma, Young Citizen of the Year “There is a saying in Spanish which goes, “Mi casa es su casa” which loosely translates into, “My home is your home”. I had heard this saying quite often growing up but never truly understood what it meant. That was, until my family decided to immigrate to Australia 8 years ago and we chose to settle down in the beautiful and colourful city of Dandenong.

Dandenong welcomed us with open arms, and it has been our home ever since.

“As a 13-year-old teenager I had my own set of apprehensions moving to a different country, but all of them vanished once we became part of the community. Dandenong for me truly set an example of unity in diversity.

“While walking down the colourful streets and passing the Lebanese bakeries just to whiff a smell of the freshly made baklava to going to Little India and feeling as if I was back to my country for a short while, the rich array of cultures will never fail to surprise you.

“I walk in Dandenong with a sense of pride and am aware of how generous and kind the people here are. As humans, we are often taken by curiosity and want to know about customs and traditions around the world. Dandenong offers just that. You get a taste of every country around the world (quite literally). For anyone coming to Dandenong, I would say that make the best out of it. Each day the city will astonish you with what it has to offer and it would be nothing less than magical.”

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Acting Sergeant Darren Cousins, Leading Senior Constable Maha Sukkar and Peter Wescombe at Dandenong Plaza.

Citizen of the Year Christine Keys.

Paul Broom, President of the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Paul Broom said Greater Dandenong was a “dynamic and growing area attracting significant businesses to the area”.

“One attraction is access to the South East growth corridor and Gippsland.

“The city is the most culturally diverse in Victoria which ensures a great variety of festivals and restaurants!

“The Chamber of Commerce is supporting the growth by providing many opportunities for networking. Outstanding local businesses are recognised through the Chamber Business Awards.

“Cooperation between organisations has developed a strong business community with a commitment to the region.”

Esther Gyorki, Curatorial and Exhibitions Officer, Walker Street Gallery According to Esther Gyorki art provides a number of benefits to the broader community.

“It’s really important for the actual artists in our community to see their works in a local environment.

“It’s also important not only for those who are artists but also for people from every walk of life to be able to come to a safe, interesting, thought-provoking venue, and to see works that offer new and different perspectives to what they know.”

Superintendent Paul Hollowood Police are proactively targeting crime in Greater Dandenong through a number of initiatives to keep residents safe.

This includes a focus on youth to address issues that might lead to crime, like family problems and mental health.

Superintendent Paul Hollowood said one of the longstanding problems with policing is that while police work 24/7, the services members refer youth to only operate during business hours, making it hard to ensure uptake and participation in the services.

This led to the concept of having an embedded youth outreach worker within police patrol ranks.

The Embedded Youth Outreach Program (EYOP) was introduced in August 2018 and sees police partner with YSAS to provide youth with referrals to services that can provide assistance for issues like homelessness, mental health, attempted suicide and self-harm.

The program has encountered just over 1200 youth since it began and has helped to prevent offences.

It runs alongside another initiative, PASA, in which police partner with a mental health clinician who has engaged people with mental health issues no matter their age.

“For every 10 cases we encounter, at least six are actually engaged in the service which is a higher rate of involvement than we had previously,” Supt. Hollowood said.

“It’s about a focus on stopping people getting into the system and helping people when they need it.”

Tuesday, 17 March, 2020

Dawn Vernon, President of Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch Dawn has lived in Noble Park for 72 years and says she feels safe and happy.

She believes media reporting has much to answer for when it comes to raising fear in the community.

“Greater Dandenong has issues like everywhere else and we aren’t denying that, but one key thing is that crime has actually decreased 6 percent in the city since September 2018,” she said.

Neighbourhood Watch works together with police and the local council on different aspects of crime prevention: while police proactively plan operations to detect and respond to crime, like Operation Tidal, the council and Neighbourhood Watch support them with education on key crime issues.

Dawn says the Watch’s regular forums are well attended and growing.

She is also part of the Greater Dandenong Community Advisory Committee, along with police and council representatives, and says the group meets often to work on hotspot locations to proactively address crime through measures like increased police patrols, CCTV and lighting.

“We are a team working together,” she said.

Media and friends have called her in the past, asking her whether she is scared to live in an area like Dandenong, but Dawn’s answer is emphatic: “No, I am not.”

“I am 74, my husband is 76, and we go into Dandenong all the time to visit the market, Drum Theatre, attend meetings and have dinner. We also catch the train to go to football matches and I go to meetings at night in the city. I’ve had no trouble and the train is orderly at night.”

The Watch is always looking for volunteers.

Contact Dawn on 0407 325 030 or president@ nhwgreaterdandenong.org.

“I just want to see people enjoying our great city,” she said.

Selba Gondoza Luka, CEO of Afri-Aus Care In November 2016, a basketball team was founded by advocacy and support group AfriAus Care to provide an outlet for and a means of engaging with Sudanese youth.

Selba Gondoza Luka said the journey began when she met Jamy Alex, a troubled youth who she provided case management and counselling for.

Jamy told her that many in his community would appreciate similar help, and suggested setting up a sporting club to reach out to the youth – a positive model to draw kids off the street and support their wellbeing.

The two co-founders didn’t have a name then – until volunteer project manager at Afri-Aus Care, Daisy Ramirez, suggested ‘Black Rhinos’. Like the rhinos in Africa who are now protected from poachers, the Black Rhinos team aims to help support and protect young people.

Big-name connections have since come

Black Rhinos John, Selba, Awiey and Edasso.

Tanishka Sharma receives her Australia Day award from mayor Jim Memeti. on board: Karen Pearce from Basketball Victoria, Graham Allen of Dandenong Basketball Association, Victoria Police’s Andrew Crisp, Honorary Consul for Malawi Trent Smyth, and Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams. Kiwi basketballer Kemara Samuel volunteers his time as coach too.

Researchers from Melbourne and Swinburne University’s criminology departments are evaluating the effectiveness of the program, and so far it looks good.

Black Rhinos has now expanded to include youth from many backgrounds, including Chinese and Afghani, and now has a women’s team too. Altogether there are hundreds of members, Selba said.

And it’s all about ensuring the kids feel connected and have a place to belong.

“We use the concept of Ubuntu and the positive change model,” she said.

“We don’t look at what they’ve done; we focus on the future opportunities we’re giving them.”

Bev Hansen, Dandenong West PS principal Bev says her source for optimism in her students and families comes from the “incredible amount of strength” within Dandenong.

“People come with huge strengths from their own cultures and from their hope for a brighter future. If we work with these strengths, anything is possible.”

Research and her own experience shows that bringing communities into the school and working with them improves learning.

Ms Hansen has observed a high level of trust from parents, who see from themselves how hard teachers are working for their kids.

“The aim is to connect families to each other and developing their understanding of parenting and working with children in Australia.

“We’ve learnt a lot from them on what parenting looks like in their culture. That’s helped us understand all their strengths.”

Ms Hansen says she doesn’t share outside perceptions of Dandenong.

“I’ve never at any point felt fearful here, and I’m often here at night.

“I see people with enormous aspirations for their children.” dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … LIVE. LOVE. DANDENONG

Motoring on for 30 years Patterson Cheney Toyota is a family business that has been providing sales, service, accessories and parts distribution to Victorians for over 30 years.

Located in the heart of Dandenong, Patterson Cheney Toyota is a proud sponsor of major local events such as the Dandenong Show, Nawroz, Diwali and Bakmaha celebrations.

Patterson Cheney is also a member of the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce and hosts an annual networking evening.

Further, Patterson Cheney supports Toyota Australia’s community initiatives through sponsoring local schools and clubs including the Dream Car Art Contest - a global competition held to encourage and inspire creative expression and imagination in children, and the National Tree Day with its focus on getting everyone’s hands dirty planting trees and rais-

ing awareness of the environment.

Patterson Cheney Toyota also works closely with Noble Park Football Club to support Good For Footy - an opportunity to give back to their local communities by providing financial support to the local football club. This is a once in a lifetime experience for fans to get up and close with AFL and AFL- W stars.

Patterson Cheney staff speak over 10 languages and understand the importance of diversity. Cheney Toyota is your local dealer who values the community and supports local events. If you are looking into a new or pre owned vehicle or simply need to book your next service, don’t hesitate to give these legends a call.

Patterson Cheney Toyota is located at 200 Cheltenham Road, Dandenong.

The Pre Owned Vehicles Sales Team Dian Hewagama, Mark Phillpott, Steve Atto and Ajmal Armani.

Dandenong Market welcoming and open for business Dandenong Market remains open for business and has reported steady numbers since the COVID-19 outbreak.

“The COVID-19 situation has brought with it many challenges for a business as complex as our market which welcomes 5.6 million visitors every year,” Jennifer Hibbs, Dandenong Market’s General Manager said.

Last week, the Australian Government announced that “public transient places such as shopping centres will not be impacted”. The Market falls under this category.

“We are doing all we can to keep our customers and traders safe with increased cleaning and hygiene around the market. We are taking every precaution to ensure we remain open and wel-

coming as a vital source of fresh produce.

"We know our customers will continue to support their community and small businesses in the manner they have over the market’s rich history,” Ms Hibbs said.

Visitor numbers remain steady at the market, with traders reporting increased sales in

bulk fruit, vegetables, meat and fish last weekend.

“We encourage our community to check in with neighbours and elderly relatives or friends and offer to do their shopping for them. Don’t forget to visit our Bazaar where we have essentials such as pet food and soap for sale,” Ms Hibbs said.

“If anyone is in self-isolation, ask a friend to buy some good books.”

The market has also cancelled Dandenong World Fare, planned for this Sunday, which attracts up to 40,000 people every year.

“Producing an event like World Fare has been months in the planning, involving small business owners, artists and food vendors working with us to deliver countless memo-

rable experiences on this special day to our market visitors.”

The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival has been postponed of which World Fare is the largest free event on the gestival’s calendar.

This followed the Prime Minister’s announcement, on advice from Australia’s Chief Medical Officer, to ban any gathering of more than 500 people.

“We have no choice but to make the disappointing but necessary decision to cancel World Fare. This is a challenging time, but we take comfort in knowing that gathering our community together for live events is core to the human experience. When this global outbreak recedes, market events will return stronger than ever,” Ms Hibbs said.

MEET YOUR LOCAL COUNCILLOR

One of my major visions for the Council is to protect and enhance public open space. I strongly believe in the saying “think global, act local”. Another priority of mine is to develop and conserve community assets, as I see the present Council as trustee for future generations. My interests are law, politics and the arts, as well as a recreational love of breeding and racing thoroughbred horses. An update to the Paperback Ward, the redevelopment of Parkfield Reserve is continuing with major improvements almost completed for the winter sporting season. At Harrisfield pre school council plans are being finalised for parents to have a dedicated safe drop off zone in Ardgower Road abutting the reserve which provides entry to the Pre School. Council will be providing significant financial support to the new Committee of Management at the Noble Park Community Centre so that major improvements can be made at the Centre for the many community groups who use the Centre every week. Special thanks must go to the Chairperson of the new Committee, Heather Duggan, and her dedicated team and Robyn,the Centre Manager, who have recently steered the Centre through some challenging tasks. The opportunity now exists to help the Centre revive and thrive. I am contactable at

Phone: 0468 584 837 Email: Peter.Brown@cgd.vic.gov.au

As a Councillor representing Paperbark ward in the City of Greater Dandenong which encompasses Noble Park & Keysborough, I have been able to deliver some amazing projects with plenty more to come. In Keysborough we have the new Wachter Reserve Master plan which will see over $8 Million dollars invested to bring the park up to a modern standard, this includes works to reinstate the wetlands and new pavilions. In Noble Park The Parkfield Reserve master plan has been passed and this will see the reserve transformed into a state of the art facility for the Parkfield Cricket club, Noble Park Drina Soccer club and the Noble Park Tennis club, works have been completed to remove the old cycling track and works are being completed to prep the site for works including a new mixed use path I have been a fierce advocate for cracking down on crime throughout Greater Dandenong by moving motions supported by my colleagues this contributed to the announcement of additional policing resources for the Greater Dandenong region. We need more infrastructure in greater dandenong including increased bus services to the railway stations and the final leg of the Dandenong bypass connecting South Gippsland Highway to the South Gippsland Freeway, If you have any issues or projects that you believe are of interest, please do not hesitate to contact me.

My name is Sophaneth (Sophie) Tan and I am excited to be representing the residents of Paperbark Ward in the City of Greater Dandenong.

I am 35 years old and arrived in Australia from Battambang in Cambodia in 1995. I first lived in Springvale with my mother and four siblings and 10 years ago moved to Keysborough. I am incredibly honoured to represent the people of the City of Greater Dandenong.

It is a vibrant and diverse community and a community I am incredibly proud to be part of. I am also very proud to be the first female Cambodian councillor elected in Victoria.

Since I can remember I have also wanted to be a councillor, serving the local community and helping people.

I am a passionate family violence advocate, I care greatly about the environment and community safety is also a very important issue for me.

I have a background in Marketing and Commerce and currently work at the Commonwealth Bank. I also really enjoy travel and interior design.

Paperbark Ward Mobile: 0466 403 914 Email: tim.dark@cgd.vic.gov.au

Term as a Councillor: 2019 - present 12444841-NG12-20

Paperbark Ward

Cr Sophie Tan

Term as a Councillor: 2016 - present 12444842-NG12-20

Term as a Councillor: 2003 - 2016, November - present

Cr Tim Dark

Paperbark Ward Email: Sophie.Tan@cgd.vic.gov.au

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Cr Peter Brown

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FOCUS ON … LIVE. LOVE. DANDENONG

Established in 1919, Dandenong High School is one of the oldest and most culturally diverse secondary schools in the state.

The school’s vision is to create an environment where every student achieves success and realises their potential.

Principal Susan Ogden explained that the school’s unique house structure and state of the art facilities ensure students’ develop a deep connection and strong pride in their school.

“In Years 7-9, students learn in a collaborative model in their house with teams of teachers. Learning is personalised, technology embedded and differentiated to meet individual needs and ensure every student is engaged and challenged,“ Ms Ogden said.

“Our senior studies program and our strong partnerships with tertiary providers and community organisations provide students with an individualised senior pathway and the essential entrepreneurship and other 21st century skills necessary for success once they leave school.“ Dandenong High School offers an extensive STEM pathway and SEAL program and encourages students to contribute positively to their community.

“Our emphasis on student agency and leadership empowers our students to exact

The school chior performed at last year's centenary celebrations. positive change and be responsible community members both inside and outside the school,“ Ms Ogden said.

“I am incredibly proud to be the leader of such a unique and dynamic learning community and would encourage you to visit our website or contact the school to arrange a tour.“ For more information about Dandenong High School, phone 9792 0561 or visit www. dandenong-hs.vic.edu.au.

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Ready for a bright future

SCHOOL TOURS FRIDAY 20TH MARCH 2020 9:15AM

AELP INFORMATION SESSION WEDNESDAY 18TH MARCH AT 7:00PM

AELP EXAM SATURDAY 2ND MAY 2020 9:00AM - 11:30AM GO TO SCHOOL WEBSITE FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THE NEW ACCELERATED AND ENHANCED LEARNING PROGRAM AND TO APPLY TO SIT THE AELP EXAM (+613) 9792 0561 // WWW.DANDENONG-HS.VIC.EDU.AU

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Tuesday, 17 March, 2020

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FOCUS ON … LIVE. LOVE. DANDENONG

STEM focus On 4 March, 75 Lyndale Secondary STEM students participated in the 2020 Microsoft AI for Good Challenge.

Students were supported by teachers to learn the basic concepts of Artificial Intelligence. Equipped with this learning, they embarked on a design-thinking challenge to dream up a creative way that AI could be used to make a difference in the world. The challenge focused on understanding AI and designing innovative concepts for how this technology could be used to improve “the human experience”.

Director of STEM at Lyndale Sabine Joseph said the STEM Centre was “a buzz” with creative and collaborative discussions working toward a better future.

“Well done to all students involved and a big thank you to Education Changemakers and ABCN for facilitating this experience for our students.“

Meanwhile, poeple passing the school in recent months would have noticed the remaining C Wing and the old administration and staff rooms from B wing being demolished.

This was to make way for the new Arts and Material Technologies wing that will join onto the completed performing Arts building. This building is currently in the finishing stages and should open for classes in the middle of this year.

Late in 2019 the new library building and accompanying general purpose classrooms and specialist Media Studies and Visual Communication classroom were completed. This building is located at the rear of the school so not clearly visible from the road. The old library has now become the administration building for the school so access for the public has moved from Gladstone Road to Halton Road.

Lyndale Secondary STEM students were enthusiastic about participating in the 2020 Microsoft AI for Good Challenge.

Noble Park Secondary College is committed to developing a high level of academic and creative excellence

Enhanced learning on offer Noble Park Secondary College’s Galileo Program inspires innovation, creativity and deeper learning.

The Galileo Enhancement Program is an initiative designed to assist students to achieve results of a high standard at senior levels. The college is committed to developing a high level of academic and creative excellence, encouraging students to strive to reach their full potential, and allowing for advanced opportunities to gain desired tertiary entrance.

The program offers an enriched curriculum in English, Mathematics, Humanities and Science geared towards extending students through self- regulated learning.

This is a Year 7 Select Entry Program taught by a team of dedicated core specialist teachers and external educators from RMIT, who pro-

vide a rich variety of theoretical and practical studies including, robotics, 3D printing, coding, scientific laboratory work, and inquiry based projects.

The strong academic core and elective program is further enhanced by the requirement that all students involve themselves in a wide range of enrichment co-curriculum programs.

These include instrumental and band program, debating, competitions, college performances, community events, literary, artistic, education extension, leadership and personal development programs.

Students remain in the program from Year 7 to 10 and can accelerate into Unit 1 and 2 VCE studies provided that they to meet the required criteria.

Look Closer!

Lyndale welcomes you to our

Open Night

Tuesday 24th March 2020 at 6:30pm Lyndale Secondary College’s students, teachers and parents make up a culturally diverse learning community. Respect and trust are fundamental to learning, personal growth and quality relationships. By putting these qualities into practise, students and staff ensure that together we achieve success. We confidently believe that high expectations empower students to be responsible for their own behaviour and learning.

The College offers great advantages in the breadth of curriculum offerings.

There is provision for specialist learning areas and facilities and a wide range of co-curricula programs which contribute so much to the fullest development of the student’s academic, cultural, artistic, social and sporting achievements, while still maintaining a sense of belonging essential in all great schools. This is an exciting time at Lyndale Secondary College as we are in the middle of a building program that will develop the facilities to support our students in their learning.

We aim to have each student move towards a successful and meaningful future, irrespective of where or what that might be, then as a team of educators, we have fulfilled our responsibilities.

We welcome your interest in our college, we warmly invite you to contact us.

Tours can be arranged by contacting 9795 2366

Noble Park Secondary College

Open Evening Thursday 19 March 2020 7pm - 8.30pm or call to book a personalised tour of the College

3 Callaghan Street, Noble Park

Phone: 9546 9066 12443907-JW11-20

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

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FOCUS ON … LIVE. LOVE. DANDENONG

Stories from the heart

Looking forward to Harmony Day are, from left, Abigail, Naima, Eram, Mojkouth and Yishan. 205694

In harmony A full program of events is planned for Saturday 21 March from 10am to 4pm: Multi-cultural Dance Performances Henna artists and Chinese calligraphists My Island Home Craft Activities Meet and Greet with Shimmer and Shine the Nickelodeon junior characters will be roaming around the plaza for ‘selfies’ and meet and greet opportunities.

Harmony Day Hands Display - a decorative display by Dandenong Primary School students on Level 3 next to Cloud Café.

“As a centre we are proud to offer a space where shoppers from ethnically and linguistically diverse backgrounds feel welcome. We look forward to celebrating our diversity with our culturally diverse community on Harmony Day," Ms Jenkins said.

Select retailers at Armada Dandenong will have exclusive Harmony Day offers. To find out more about the Harmony Day activities go to www.armadadandenongplaza.com.au

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Archie Roach takes to the road in May for his last ever national tour, Tell Me Why.

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Armada Dandenong Plaza will celebrate Harmony Day on Saturday 21 March, to embrace the shopping centre’s culturally diverse community.

Harmony Day is a celebration of multiculturalism, belonging and inclusion according to centre manager Monica Jenkins.

“Given that our centre is situated in the City of Greater Dandenong, the most culturally diverse municipality in Victoria, this is an important event for us, as well an opportunity to promote the positive message that everyone belongs."

A recent survey of Armada Dandenong Plaza’s centre staff found that there are members from over 40 different countries of birth working at the centre and over 52 different languages are spoken by staff.

In the lead up to Harmony Day on Friday 20 March students from the Dandenong Primary School choir will be performing songs that celebrate harmony and belonging in multicultural costume.

Have you checked out the 2020 Theatre Season from Dandenong’s iconic Drum Theatre?

Whether you are looking for belly laughs, inspirational stories or a musical experience, there is something for everyone in this huge season.

Here are some must-see performances that you don’t want to miss.

Laugh along with the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow on 8 May. Join the diverse line-up of the hottest acts for the best Friday night out that is sure to tickle your funny bone.

Archie Roach takes to the road for his last ever national tour, Tell Me Why. The Drum Theatre is priviledged to be part of the national tour and welcome Archie on the stage on Thursday 28 May. This must-see concert is full of soulful songs telling Archie's life story from stolen child, teenage alcoholic, seeker, lover, father, musical and lyrical genius, to social advocate and First Nations leader.

What also makes the Drum Theatre special is its collaboration with local communities.

Our Story is a theatre piece created by local young people, aged 13-30, telling the story of what it means to be human in the South Eastern suburbs. It’s a story of young and old, the collision of cultures and peoples. It’s the story of you and me; told through Indigenous storytelling styles, dance, song, rap and, most importantly, food.

Our Story, which will be performed on Saturday 18 April at 7.30pm, explores the things that bind us together as a community, the parts of our collective identity that transcend culture and language. Our Story speaks with a fresh and honest voice. Devised by almost 40 young people from the community, it is the first piece of independent theatre to be made in and presented at the Drum Theatre and will be the first of many local stories told in the theatre.

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St Anthony’s cleans up Students from St Anthony’s Primary School in Noble Park have done their bit for the environment, marking Clean Up Australia Day on Friday 28 February. Students from all year levels worked together to clean up the school grounds, wearing blue and green colours to represent the earth. Level 5/6 students also ventured beyond the school gate onto the four surrounding streets to clean up the footpaths. Teachers reported that students felt empowered knowing that their small actions are benefiting the whole community, in what was a great day and a reminder to keep Australia clean.

Nowhere to park

By Danielle Kutchel

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A Noble Park kindergarten is desperately seeking a solution to its parking woes, as parents compete with staff and residents for a dwindling number of spots.

Harrisfield Kindergarten on Bowmore Road, Noble Park, has no on-site car parking for attendees or staff.

The centre’s main address is a no standing Zone, meaning parents are legally unable to park outside the kinder’s front entrance.

It is also situated on a dangerous blind corner.

The kinder backs on to Ardgower Road and a small reserve that managers say could be turned into parking for staff at the very least.

Currently, most drivers park on Ardgower

Road - where they compete with residents for the available spots.

Harrisfield Kindergarten co-educator Wendy said the majority of the centre’s 80 families drive to the kinder to drop off and pick up their children.

She said many parents double park during peak times, or drive through the reserve to drop their children at the gate.

Bin day restricts parking even further, as does the influx of residents in new units nearby with no on-site parking provided for tenants.

“We’ve had neighbours complain that parents have parked over their driveways or bins,” she added.

“And wet day pick-up can be dangerous because parents want to park right out the front, which is illegal on Bowmore.

“Bowmore is dangerous - last year a car didn’t make the bend and came through the front fence.”

Staff have resorted to parking at a nearby shopping strip, she said, because there is simply “nowhere else to park”.

The kindergarten has tabled a petition with Greater Dandenong Council in an effort to get a carpark built.

The petition, which attracted 267 signatures from parents and residents, was first tabled at the council meeting on Monday 24 February, and re-tabled at the meeting on Tuesday 10 March.

The petitioners want to see some of the reserve turned into a parking facility for staff, or a ten-minute drop-off zone provided for parents.

On Wednesday 11 March, Cr Peter Brown

The reserve at the back of the kinder, which petitioners want to see turned into parking. met with Greater Dandenong traffic and community officers on site to discuss how to rectify the issue.

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NEWS

Home package rejected

By Danielle Kutchel A proposed housing complex to address homelessness and low home-ownership rates amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people has been voted down by councillors.

In the council meeting on Tuesday 10 March, councillors voted 9-1 to reject the proposal in its current form.

The proposal would have seen the block at 27 Wilma Avenue Dandenong developed into 10 dwellings with a reduction in car parking requirements.

The complex would be owned and managed by Aboriginal Housing Victoria, a notfor-profit which provides affordable housing options for low-income Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents.

The council officers' report, tabled in the meeting had recommended that the council grant a permit for the development, subject to 23 conditions.

Thirty-three objections and one letter of support were received from the public in relation to the application.

None of the objections came from adjoining or surrounding land.

Issues raised in the objections included overdevelopment, car parking inadequacies, concerns about management of landscape, site cleaning, rubbish and maintenance, and accessibility.

During the councillors' debate, Cr Matthew Kirwan said the proposal was incompliant in nine ways with the General Residential Zone Schedule 1, including not meeting the preferred two-storey maximum building height, not meeting the preferred housing type of medium density townhouses, and failing to provide adequate onsite car parking.

He noted the unusually high number of objections and called on the developer to "follow the rules just like anyone else".

Silvia Mastrogiovanni, cofounder of the Dandenong Community Association, agreed

The council has voted down the proposed development on Wilma Avenue. that all developers need to follow the rules "We fought very hard to make sure zones were in the right areas of Dandenong," she said.

"These rules ensure that everybody knows where the right build forms need to be and everybody gets a fair go."

While she agreed that social housing is important for Greater Dandenong, Ms Mastrogiovanni said the proposed development was the wrong kind of building for the site.

"It concerned me that the officers had recommended that this inappropriate building be built in the wrong zone because what is the

point of having rules if we're going to disrespect them?" she said.

Now that the proposal has been rejected, the developer has the opportunity to revise the plans in line with the councillors' concerns, or take the application to VCAT. The only councillor to vote in support of the development was Cr Angela Long.

She told the Journal that she supported the development due to a chronic lack of social housing in Greater Dandenong - not just for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders community, with which she has worked for 35 years, but also for the population more widely.

"This was a golden opportunity for more social housing," she said.

"There are concerns, but the site is close to public transport, a primary school, kinder and a shopping centre.

"I believe that social housing is a priority in our city."

She believes that if the developer changed the plans to a two-storey development, the proposal might go through.

"I would encourage them, if they're not going to VCAT, to rejig the site and come back," she said.

Rail punctuality still sub-par

By Jonathan McQuie

There are always steps residents can take to help create a safe city.

Take steps to reduce crime

By Danielle Kutchel The president of Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch says although crime in Dandenong has decreased, there are always ways for members of the public to help promote a safe city.

Dawn Vernon, who is also part of the Greater Dandenong Community Advisory Committee along with representatives of Victoria Police and Greater Dandenong Council, says residents can help by reporting suspicious behaviour and taking steps for crime prevention.

"Report anything even if you think is small to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or the nonurgent police number 131 444 - it maybe the piece of the puzzle they are looking for for," she says.

If a crime is occurring, witnesses are urged to call 000.

Overall burglaries have reduced fro two years in a row, with police pledging to step up patrols to address burglaries.

Theft from motor vehicles at railway sta2 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 17 March, 2020

tions and shopping centre carparks had increased across Greater Dandenong, according to Ms Vernon, with police reminding drivers and passengers to remove all valuables from their cars.

Many incidents involve smashing car windows for small items of minimal value, and local police are working with transit police to investigate and prevent such crimes.

Residents are also encouraged to ensure cars are locked.

Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch will hold a community forum on Wednesday 18 March, featuring Acting Sergeant Tim Sullivan from the Greater Dandenong Local Crime desk, and and Sergeant Andrew Nisbet from the Ballistic Unit, as guest speakers.

The forum will begin at 7.30pm with supper to follow, at the Paddy O`Doughue Centre, 18 Buckley St Noble Park.

Neighbourhood Watch is always on the lookout for members; contact Dawn Vernon on 0407 32 5030 or president@nhwgreaterdandenong.org for more information

Recent results released by the Department of Transport show that the all three train lines which pass through Dandenong are underperforming compared to the rest of the state.

Throughout Victoria, train punctuality was impacted by track and signal faults, along with significant weather events, including the heavy rainfall throughout the city.

Additionally, on Monday 17 and Thursday 20 February, the rail, tram, and bus unions launched four-hour industrial actions, disrupting services on lines state-wide.

During the month of February, trains on the Cranbourne line were punctual only 83.7 percent of the time, while trains on the Pakenham line arrived on time only 86.2 percent of the time.

Both of these performances are under the state-wide average of 90.3 percent, and fall be-

low Metro's mandated 92 percent targets.

However, south-east Victoria's V-Line service was even more subpar, only out-performing the Albury line, which replaced rail services with bus services after the 20 February train derailment at Wallan.

Only 73.6 percent of services on the Gippsland line arrived on time, 15 percent below the state average.

However, this still marks a six percent improvement in punctuality for the entire line compared to the month of January.

According to Jeroen Weimar, the Head of Transport for the Department, more work is required to ensure Melbourne's train network performs satisfactorily.

"We continue to work with Metro Trains to ensure punctuality improves in line with what passengers expect from our metropolitan network."

The Gippsland line was also subpar. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

IN BRIEF

Rail crossing to go Construction to remove the South Gippsland Highway level crossing in Dandenong will start soon, with a contract now awarded to ease congestion and make the south-east safer.

On Thursday 12 March, Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams announced a $98 million contract to remove what is one of Melbourne's busiest level crossings, which sees 31,000 drivers every day stuck with the boom gates down for up to a third of the morning peak.

The dangerous level crossing was the site of

four collisions and more than 40 near misses in the decade to 2015, while nearby at the intersection of South Gippsland Highway and Princes Highway there were four incidents resulting in serious injury and one fatal incident over the past ten years.

The crossing is set to be replaced with a road bridge over the rail line.

The new road bridge design minimises closures of the Pakenham line and disruptions to the local community, and a shared user path will also provide a connection between the South Gippsland Highway and Dandenong

South Trail for pedestrians and cyclists.

Work to remove the South Gippsland Highway level crossing will be completed by 2022, as one of 17 crossings being removed on the Pakenham line.

The project will be delivered by an alliance of Fulton Hogan and Metro Trains Melbourne, who are currently removing level crossings at Clyde Road in Berwick, Evans Road in Lyndhurst and Cardinia Road in Pakenham.

For information about the project, visit www.levelcrossings.vic.gov.au.

Geared up for work and reset for life

By Danielle Kutchel Sometimes in life, you need a reset: stop, put the hand brake on, and turn around.

That's exactly what Hand Brake Turn offers to troubled and disadvantaged youth.

Hand Brake Turn (HBT) provides practical, hands-on mechanical training, giving youth experience and skills in the industry and preparing them for future training and employment.

It's responding to a significant need in the community; the Brotherhood of St Laurence's Dropping off the Edge report in 2015 noted that Dandenong was in the top five percent of disadvantaged postcodes, with young people in particular feeling the impact.

Last year was HBT's 25th anniversary and the milestones continued, with the 10,000th student graduating.

Phil Bloy, who has worked at the Dandenong Hand Brake Turn workshop for 25 years - since the organisation began in Dandenong - could probably tell you most of their names.

Over the years he has seen a number of good stories: students who dropped out of the HBT course and disappeared, only to resurface years later with a qualification and a job, and who credit the tough love of the program with giving them the reset they needed.

Many of the students have already dropped out of school, and the HBT mentors encourage them back into education after completing the course.

Students at HBT receive a certificate and recognition for having completed a Learn Local course, and are then supported into TAFE or a VACC apprenticeship, with Phil acting as a broker between local businesses offering ap-

Car ‘fully ablaze’ in Dandenong North The team teaches students basic mechanical skills. prenticeships, and HBT students.

They also teach students life skills and provide mentoring for kids who often don't have anyone at all.

HBT works closely with the youth justice system to offer a pathway to those who might otherwise not have one.

"We have a circuit breaker mindset," says Jonathan Sugumar, business development administrator at HBT. "We offer a lot of second and third chances."

Find out more at www.concernaustralia. org.au/hand-brake-turn

Police are appealing for witnesses after a car was found on fire in a vacant block in Dandenong North.

The vehicle, a Hyundai van, was found fully ablaze on the Simpson Drive block at 7.15am on Sunday 8 March.

Neighbours reported hearing a loud bang or explosion prior to finding the car engulfed in flames.

The CFA attended and extinguished the blaze and it was found that the car had been stolen from Bayswater on 5 February.

Stolen plates were also found on the car.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or www. crimestoppers.com.au

Jonathan, Phil and Josh of Hand Brake Turn.

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

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A brazen daylight robbery has left an elderly man battered and bruised.

On Wednesday 4 March at approximately 12pm, the victim, a 96-year-old male from Dandenong South, visited the Commonwealth Bank ATM at Parkmore Shopping Centre to withdraw money.

He put the money in his pocket, returned to his car and sat in the driver's seat - but before he had a chance to shut the door, the offender, described as a Caucasian male with blonde hair, approached.

The offender yelled "money! Money!" at the victim before punching him in the face multiple times and stealing the money from his pocket.

The victim has been left with swelling and bruising from the assault.

Investigators are appealing for any witnesses to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au A neighbour has woken up to find the house next door on fire.

The blaze at the vacant house at 70 King Street, Dandenong, was discovered at 2.25am on Saturday 7 March.

Arson chemists attended and the fire has been deemed suspicious.

Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information should call Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppers.com.au

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NEWS

Positively reaching out

By Danielle Kutchel A community-minded approach to antisocial behaviour is making a difference at Fountain Gate Shopping Centre.

In September last year, Dandenong-based Afri-Aus Care partnered with Victoria Police and Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) to provide an innovative outreach program at the shopping centre.

Volunteers drawn from the Pacific Islander and African communities along with Victoria Police spend Thursday nights walking through the centre, engaging with youth to find out more about them.

The volunteers then provide referrals to other services, such as mental health or relationship support, as needed.

An ADRA support bus sits outside the centre, welcoming in those who need to talk to someone or ask for help in a quiet location, and providing information on what sort of support is available.

The program aims to deter young people from committing crimes before they happen.

So far, they have reported great success, with antisocial incidents decreasing.

Victoria Police local division superintendent for Casey, Cardinia and Dandenong, Paul Hollowood, said the program was providing a "positive result" with a reduction in repeat offending in particular.

"Because we're dealing with youth on a whole range of issues, like family violence, mental health, crime, etc., what we're finding is we're able to provide that support to youth who would not necessarily have had that available to them," he said.

"When we get in early with the preventative approach, it's likely to stop that offending before it occurs.

"We're looking at expanding that approach to be better engaged."

The outreach team at Fountain Gate.

Volunteer Ruach said many of the youth they were engaging with felt isolated from the wider community and faced the prospect of a lack of jobs and discrimination.

He said they needed support to feel welcome and to be able to get on the right track.

"I want to tell people not to be scared because Sudanese are good people," he said.

"The generation born here is Australian, not African."

Kimi, another volunteer, said he loved providing the outreach service and wanted to help the community.

Community leaders walk through the shopping centre and talk to young people.

"We can sense if people really want to talk, then we start to engage. We talk to anyone. We just ask how they are."

Westfield Fountain Gate Centre Manager, Cathy Main, said the centre saw engagement with the community as "fundamental".

"The Afri-Aus Care initiative is an example of how we work in close partnership with key community leaders and organisations, Police, emergency services as well as local and state authorities to ensure the wellbeing of our customers, retail partners and employees, and to collaboratively address emerging social issues.

"The program helps community leaders,

emergency services and businesses such as ours to more proactively work together to identify and build rapport with young people who may need some extra support, and to give them that connection and sense of belonging in their local community."

Founder of Afri-Aus Care, Selba Gondoza Luka, said the group had been approached by Dandenong Plaza to run a similar program.

Afri-Aus Care hopes to expand the problem to other shopping centres around Dandenong, Cardinia and Casey, but is calling for funding to support the rollout.

Collective tender seeks waste solution Greater Dandenong City Council, together with 15 other councils from Melbourne's south-east, have begun the first collective tender for advanced waste processing solutions.

This will result in household rubbish being processed instead of it being sent straight to landfill.

"This is the biggest tender for new waste management infrastructure ever undertaken by councils in Melbourne," Greater Dandenong Council Chief Executive Officer John Bennie said.

"Advanced waste processing will transform how the City of Greater Dandenong manages the rubbish we collect from residents."

Advanced waste processing technologies are being used successfully and safely overseas to recover valuable materials in household rubbish or transform it into energy.

These technologies can reduce the amount of household rubbish sent to landfill by at least 85 per cent and reduce residents' impact on the environment.

Population growth in the south-east is driving a substantial increase in rubbish.

Household rubbish in the 16 councils is projected to increase by 40 per cent over the next 25 years.

Rubbish will all go to landfill unless another solution is found.

The announcement of the tender comes as the EPA deliberates over a proposal for a waste-to-energy plant in Ordish Road, Dandenong South, which would process an estimated 100,000 tonnes a year of non-recyclable municipal solid waste, and commercial and industrial waste through incineration.

Hundreds of residents have expressed concern about the proposed plant, especially around smells, air quality and pollution.

Mr Bennie said landfills in the south-east are set to close in a few years, which means councils will have to transport rubbish across Melbourne to other landfills.

"Advanced waste processing is a great solution for household rubbish that would normally go to landfill.

"We still need to continue kerbside recycling and green and food waste collection serdandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Grants are now available to not-for-profits across Eastern Victoria.

STEM grants available

Advanced waste processing solutions could reduce residents' impact on the environment. vices as part of a total approach to managing waste," Mr Bennie said.

"Advanced waste processing will do more with the valuable resources that are being put in landfill and achieve better financial, environmental and social outcomes."

The tender has started with an Expression of Interest to identify businesses with the right

experience and capability to design, build and operate a facility. It will take another two years before a preferred bid is selected.

No decisions have been made yet regarding the type or location of any facilities. This will be identified during the procurement process.

It is expected to be at least five to six years before a facility is operating.

Not-for-profits across Eastern Victoria are invited to apply for grants to host science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) themed activities as part of Victoria's 76th annual Education Week.

This year's theme is 'Celebrating STEM'.

All government schools are encouraged to join Education Week celebrations, opening their doors to showcase how they are using STEM to help students thrive and gain critical skills for the future.

Organisations that can demonstrate how STEM is about innovation, curiosity and creativity as an integral part of everyday life, from using the latest technology to a visit to the beach to discover amazing marine life, are encouraged to apply.

Small grants of up to $2000 are available to assist eligible not-for-profit organisations to host free STEM-related activities.

Potential activities could include interactive workshops, exhibitions, competitions, tours, open days, online or digital STEM programs, presentations and outreach programs.

Education Week will run from Sunday 17 to Saturday 23 May. Applications for Education Week activities should be submitted by 11:59pm, Thursday 26 March 2020 at https://fs27.formsite.com/ CHgztD/Educationweek/.

For more information and to learn more about Education Week visit www.education. vic.gov.au/educationweek Tuesday, 17 March, 2020

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STAR JOURNAL 5

NEWS

No parking

Business showcase

By Jonathan McQuie Successful local businesses will be celebrated at the Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce Business Awards Showcase.

The event, the first of three throughout the year, will present four of the nominees, with the winners of each award presented at an end-of-year gala dinner.

Alongside the presentation of the nominees, Dandenong local and Collingwood football player Adam Treloar will speak to the assembled delegates about leadership, performance and overcoming obstacles.

In addition to the dozen nominees throughout the year, one Chisolm student will be rec-

ognised as a youth enterprise nominee.

"The purpose of the awards is to celebrate excellence and success in the Greater Dandenong area, and recognise outstanding organisations," said Paul Broom, president of the Chamber of Commerce.

The awards were established 25 years ago as the Premier Regional Business awards, before being rebranded to their current title today.

The showcase will be held on Wednesday 25 March at The Well, 12 Jayco Drive, Lyndhurst, between 4:30 and 6:30 pm.

Attendees are asked to RSVP by Tuesday 24 March.

For more information, contact Tamara Moore on 9768 3283.

A number of items were seiezed during the dawn raids.

From page 1 The group floated ideas such as turning the reserve into staff-only parking or a drop-off only zone, or blocking out some of the on-street space as drop-off only parking.

Cr Brown said he hoped a balance could be achieved and said he didn’t have a problem with the reserve being turned into a carpark for staff.

“If we can meet the staff’s needs, good,” he said. “There’s room for two or three carparks for staff there.”

He said the issue of a lack of parking was common to many educational precincts across Greater Dandenong, with the safety of children being the paramount concern.

“To me the critical issue is a safe drop off point for parents because the main street frontage of the kindergarten is a dangerous road because of the way it’s configured and the sheer amount of traffic, so we have to look at Ardgower Road as the main drop off point for parents.”

He said most of the problems could be overcome by having both staff parking and a dropoff zone working together.

“The expectation of the parent community here is that we do respond as quickly as possible,” he said.

The Journal sent detailed questions to Greater Dandenong Council.

Acting community services director Tilla Buden responded in a statement: “Council is working with the kinder to address their concerns and find an appropriate solution.”

at a Mount Eliza address.

Police also seized a number of items at the Hallam address including a loaded sawn-off shotgun, ammunition, drugs, cash, a stolen KTM motorcycle and a stolen Nissan 4WD. The group are expected to be charged with a range of offences including assault, aggravated carjacking, possession of prohibited firearms, drug and theft related matters.

All four were to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates' Court.

Harrisfield Kindergarten fronts onto a no standing zone.

Paul Broom, Chamber president. 201870

Four arrested in bikie raids in South East Police have arrested four men during a series of dawn raids, seizing weapons, drugs and cash following warrants across the south-east this on Thursday 5 March.

The warrants were executed by detectives from the Echo Taskforce, Frankston Crime Investigation Unit, Mornington Divisional Response Unit and Southern Metro Regional Crime Team at residential properties in Hallam, Pakenham, Frankston and Berwick, as well as an OMCG clubhouse in Cranbourne West.

The warrants formed part of an investigation in relation to illicit firearms possession and an aggravated carjacking which occurred on 19 February in Shaxton Circle, Frankston, police say.

During that incident it's believed a group of males assaulted two victims before stealing their vehicles.

The victims sustained minor injuries and did not receive medical treatment.

Police excuted warrants at addresses in Hallam, Pakenham, Frankston and Berwick, arresting four people. Picture: VICTORIA POLICE The men currently in custody are:

· A 25-year-old man from Hallam, a 25-year·

old man from Frankston and a 20-year-old man from Adelaide all arrested at the Hallam address; and A 19-year-old man from Yarrawonga arrested

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STAR JOURNAL 7

LOOKING BACK 100 years ago 11 March 1920 An Industry awaits development The result of the British enquire into the retail price of petrol, which costs about £7/10/and sells at £23, draws attention to the fact that the ultimate solution is home production from alcohol or coal. From Australian point of view fuel is of paramount importance to the advance and welfare of this country, for the automobile is destined to play an important part in the development of the Commonwealth. In Australia we can produce our own alcohol and our own benzol, yet nothing tangible is attempted - in fact cold water has been thrown on any proposals that motor fuel should be locally produced. The War demonstrated the absolute need of a country being self contained, as regards motor fuels.

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

Here’s a key industry that calls for immediate development.

50 years ago 17 March 1970 K Mart store on the way A large American discount store could be built on the Princes Highway at Harrisfield. The store probably similar to the K Mart discount house at East Burwood. The East Burwood store offers a wide range of goods at discount prices including electrical products and clothing. Mr K H Gifford QC met Springvale councillors in committee last week to discuss further expansion by G J Coles Pty Ltd which introduced the K Mart discount method of selling to Australia. Mr Gifford discussed zoning of land along Princes Hwy at Harrisfield.

Council is still considering Mr Gifford’s proposals and no decision has yet been made.

A spokesman for K Mart declined to comment when contacted by the Journal as did Springvale Town Clerk Mr L Williams.

20 years ago 20 March 2000 Letters to the Editor Heroin Dens This is not the first time safe injecting rooms have been tried. Chinese tried them hundreds of years ago. They called them opium dens.

The result of these safe injecting rooms was a 10 million person increase in the number of users the following year according to official statistics. Do these local ‘experts’ know better than the fully qualified international panel who have been following this issue for decades? If we ignore the well proven link between drugs and gambling, waste money

on programs that do not address the causes, refuse in the name of ‘freedom’ to try to build a better society, we are just slaves refusing to deal with today’s lack of love and compassion.

5 years ago 16 March 2015 Energy Shame It’s a shame that we haven’t built up a strong renewable energy industry years ago. When Jimmy Carter was President of the US he put solar panels on the White House and started a strong renewable energy program. If that had continued perhaps there would be no need for CSG mining! No wrecking of good farm lands! Obviously the oil industry didn’t want that. So now we have this situation where we are wrecking the environment and getting shafted by OPEC.

NEWS

‘Hitch’ brings the smiles

By Danielle Kutchel Star-struck students had the chance to meet media royalty at Emerson School when Peter Hitchener came to visit the school’s young leaders.

On Wednesday 4 March, the legendary newsreader visited the school to present its new crop of school captains with their badges at the Investiture Ceremony.

Mr Hitchener then hung around for a morning tea and a chat with students, talking to them about what their leadership role in the school meant and encouraging them in their endeavours.

Each year, Emerson School invites a famous face to the Investiture Ceremony, and it’s not the first time Mr Hitchener has

made an appearance.

Waleed Aly, Luke Ball and others have also been present over the years.

Assistant principal Sam Silverwood said seeing Mr Hitchener was a real treat for students, teachers and parents alike.

“The smiles on the faces of the kids getting badges were something special.

“Kids love to see someone that they look up to, and with Peter, they often see him on TV so it’s quite surreal.

“He’s always incredibly positive ... and he spoke really genuinely with students,” he said.

Isabelle performs a Welcome to Country, alongside Dianne Wright. 205149

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NEWS

Lucky battery buy powers bike win He's been flying in and out of Queensland's north for work for so long it's routine, but Mark Summers found it hard to say goodbye this time and it wasn't to his wife of 20 years, Kimberlie.

The Springvale man had just taken ownership of a "Wicked Red Iron 883 Harley Davidson" after being drawn the lucky winner in a national competition, after buying a battery at a local business.

Before his visit to Battery World Dandenong, the Mt Isa mine technician confessed his only win in his life was $14 in a lotto division.

"I went to Battery World to get a battery for a trail bike," Mr Summers said.

"I have never even sat on a fantastic bike like this before, and Geoff, the business owner said I was eligible to enter the competition running co jointly with Yuasa Batteries.

"I actually thought it was a joke when they rang to tell me I'd won. I am like a slice of watermelon - I can stop smiling."

The funny thing is both Mr Summer's wife and his brother-in-law, Tyrone are motorbike riders who have always dreamed of a bike like this with one-off specialised features - now Mr Summers has happy wife, but jealous brotherin-law.

"I don't know how I am going to go to work tomorrow," he said.

"Kimberlie will be on that bike the moment I am out the door. Already she thinks it's hers."

Battery World's Geoff Stewart said it was a pleasure to hand over a bike to such a happy winner.

Swear it in Contact hours for Justices of the Peace at Springvale Police Station have been updated.

Previously, Justices were available to witness and certify documents at the station Monday to Friday from 10am to 7pm.

As of 1 February until notified otherwise, the Justices will serve from the front counter of Springvale Police Station, Monday to Friday between 11am and 1pm and then from 5pm till 7pm.

To easily find your nearest JP, visit www. findajp.com.au and search by postcode or suburb.

If you are unable to find a JP and the matter is urgent please phone the roster coordinator on (03) 9798 1502 for an appointment.

For more information about Justices of the Peace, including what they can help with and information on Victoria's new Stat Dec form, please visit www.facebook.com/honoraryjustices

Grants boost

Bike winner Mark Summers with Kimberlie and Geoff Stewart.

"Many people don't realise they have better odds at winning competitions like this, than lotto," Mr Stewart said.

"Across Australia everyone who bought a Yuasa motorbike battery at a Battery World store could enter the competition.

"This is not your ordinary Harley: It was

customised by the famous bike builder Adam Layton from APL Performance Bikes, who is legendary amongst motorcycle enthusiasts.

"Adam designed a one-off customised seat for the Iron 883, using Sting Ray leather and the standard Air Filter was removed and a custom machined Air filter was made to enable a cool 'look down the throat of the engine'."

Two Keysborough businesses have been the recipients of State Government grants in the fourth round of the Boost Your Business Voucher Program.

ASI JD MacDonald and Footwork Podiatric Laboratory are two of more than 90 small to medium enterprises across Victoria who have received funding.

The vouchers are presented to eligible businesses in the categories of advanced manufacturing, Asia gateway, defence, aerospace, cyber and security, food innovation, Victoria-Israel innovation and social enterprise capability.

The program gives businesses the chance to explore research and development opportunities, identify new markets and create new products.

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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 17 March, 2020

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STAR JOURNAL 9

NEWS

Step forward for inclusion

By Danielle Kutchel The City of Greater Dandenong has taken a decisive step in promoting a more inclusive city for LGBTQI residents.

At the council meeting Monday 9 December, Cr Matthew Kirwan, who has long championed a more inclusive approach to the LGBTQI community, moved a motion to support the recommendations made in a progress report highlighting actions the council can take to promote inclusion of the LGBTQI community.

The progress report recommended that the council publish an inclusion statement, host celebrations of LGBTQI events, advocate with health providers and peak health bodies to promote inclusion of LGBTQI-friendly services, implement programs to improve community understanding and inclusion of LGBTQI people, and continue to support the services of Greater Dandenong Libraries and Youth and Family Services, partners in the inclusion push.

The motion was carried, with Cr Dark abstaining.

The resolution represents a commitment by council to advocate on behalf of the oftenmarginalised community.

It follows the endorsement by the council of four recommendations to enable planning to improve recognition and inclusion of LGBTQI people in Greater Dandenong, on 22 October 2018.

The four recommendations provided to the council at the time were: that the council undertake community consultation to gain further understanding of community views; that the council include references to national, state and local support services for LGBTQI community on its website and related publications; that the council encourages LGBTQI community groups, or agencies supporting LGBTQI recognition, inclusion and communi-

The council has backed a motion to be stronger advocates for the LGBTQI community. 143694 ty understanding, to apply for state-funded or local community grants; and that the council conduct an internal audit of council services using the GLHV inclusive practice audit tool or the Australian Workplace Equality Index Tool.

In the progress report updating councillors on the implementation of these earlier recommendations, it was revealed that some progress has been made.

In particular, a confidential consultation with Greater Dandenong residents who identify as LGBTQI, undertaken at the beginning of 2019, revealed that the community faces high rates of homophobia and transphobia.

The absence of a statement of inclusion and lack of targeted programs at the time, especially for older members of the LGBTQI commu-

BBQ, LIVE MUSIC, KIDS ENTERTAINMENT & MORE!

nity, were identified as making the community feel "excluded", and victimisation increased after the marriage equality vote.

People from the transgender community reported feeling unable to self-identify and that their right to self-determination is not protected, often being mis-gendered or discriminated against.

"It is important for Council to recognise the specific concerns and needs of the LGBTIQ community to ensure services are accessible and inclusive," the progress report concluded.

Cr Kirwan called December's resolution "a good start" but said more action needed to be taken.

"What we need to quickly move to is a campaign to increase understanding in the broad-

er community about our LGBTIQ community as there are misconceptions that lead to lack of acceptance and discrimination," he said.

Greater Dandenong Council's acting community services director Tilla Buden said in a statement that the implementation of the resolution had been discussed in the council's internal LGBTQI working group.

"The LGBTIQ working group is planning an event on Sunday 17 May, IDAHOBIT day with the community.

"Future events will be planned in coordination with LGBTIQ residents in the community.

Other events in the arts and culture space are also being planned to improve community understanding of the LGBTIQ community," Ms Buden said.

FREE FOR FIRST RESPONDERS & THEIR FAMILIES

Please join the community for a family night at the races as we thank those who protected us during the Bunyip and 19/20 Victorian bushfires.

‘THANK YOUR EMERGENCY SERVICES RACE NIGHT’ Sponsored by

Thurs 2 April

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5.30 pm onwards

Pakenham Racing Club General Public $15 Kids under 18 FREE

First responders & their family use code: ‘Thankyou’ for free admission*

TICKETS VIA www.country.racing.com/pakenham Brad Battin MP Liberal State Member of Parliament Your local voice

10 STAR JOURNAL

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* Emergency Service ID required with tickets on the day to receive your free BBQ & events wrist bands at admission.

Tuesday, 17 March, 2020

12444496-SN12-20

420 Nar Nar Goon-Longwarry Road, Tynong

READ NOW

12444282-SG12-20

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Fire danger period ends

Push for national centre for disease

By Brendan Rees Federal Member for Holt Anthony Byrne has called for a nation-wide Centre for Disease Control and Prevention to be established in response to the coronavirus outbreak.

Speaking at a Federal Parliament sitting on Wednesday 4 March, Mr Byrne said an Australian Centre for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention would act as a "vehicle for preventing misinformation or conflicting information emerging in the Australian community".

He said in the "era of fake news" the CDC would be the "best way forward" in coordinating and disseminating "vital public health messages" regarding the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

"We need to ensure that the Australian public has the best available information at their disposal when they need it," he said.

"Australians want to know, for example, about our quarantine and isolation arrangements. They want to know about how fast the virus is spreading, they want to know how many people have contracted the virus in Australia, and they want to know what to do if the virus spreads in Australia. An established centre for disease control and prevention in Australia would, in my view, be able to coordinate our nation's response in answering all of these questions not just now but on an ongoing basis".

Mr Byrne's proposal has been backed by the Australian Medical Association (AMA) including a focus on current and emerging communicable disease threats, engaging in global health surveillance, health security, epidemiology and research.

According to the AMA, "the prevention of

Federal Holt MP Anthony Byrne says public information on Coronavirus should be avaiable through a Centre for Disease Control and Prevention. epidemics, pandemics, and other threats, and the capacity to conduct national responses must be undertaken by an appropriate funded and staffed CDC".

Mr Bryne said the lessons of SARS, swine flu and the 2014 Ebola outbreak had not been learned by governments, contending "we can't afford to panic and then forget this time".

There are more than 80 cases of Coronavirus in Australia and currently 21 confirmed cases of Coronavirus in Victoria, eight of which are recovered, one in hospital and the rest are recov-

ering in isolation at home.

Australia's Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy said: "At the moment, we're focusing very aggressively on tracing and isolating contacts, because all of the evidence suggests that the best way to temper, delay and reduce the size of any outbreak in Australia is to contain at this time".

Meanwhile, the Coronavirus Hotline 1800 675 398 and Nurse-On-Call Hotline 1300 60 60 24 was experiencing system issues due to "extraordinary call volumes" on 10 March, with Ambulance Victoria looking at putting on additional staff to cope with the demand.

"We remind the community that information about COVID-19 is available on the website www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus and to remember to call their local GP before visiting the GP practice," Ambulance Victoria said.

On Tuesday 10 March, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos joined Victoria's Chief Health Officer Professor Brett Sutton to release the COVID-19 Pandemic Plan for the Victorian Health Sector to manage more cases and the growing risk of an outbreak in Victoria.

The Plan sets out a comprehensive, fourstage response to COVID-19. The first stage of the response, which Australia is in now, focuses on containment ¬- identifying any possible cases and isolating those who are infectious, as well as their close contacts.

Further stages of the plan set out actions to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the Victorian community, manage demand on hospital resources, respond to a severe outbreak and recover as quickly as possible.

The fire danger period will finish at 1am on Monday, 16 March in the city of Greater Dandenong and other local government areas in CFA District 8.

District 8 operations manager Jamie Hansen emphasised that although the fire danger period is coming to an end in some areas, it is important to remain vigilant.

Mr Hansen stated that fire restrictions are still in force until 1am on 16 March and that a zero tolerance policy will continue to be enforced for those people responsible for illegal fires.

"Residents that wish to conduct burn-offs on their private properties need to follow some basic rules; register your burn-offs first and foremost, check weather conditions and monitor the wind, and follow local council laws and regulations," he said.

Mr Hansen also highlighted the need for landowners to openly communicate with authorities and neighbours.

Landowners can register their burn-off with the Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) by calling 1800 668 511 or emailing burnoffs@esta.vic.gov.au "As well as registering your burn-offs with ESTA, you need to alert your neighbours to the fact that they may see smoke on the set dates," he said.

"CFA crews have been extremely busy this fire season and would like to avoid having to respond to false alarms because people are not registering their burn-offs.

"By registering your burn-off, when somebody reports that they've spotted smoke, the incident will be cross-checked with the burnoff register and prevent a CFA crew from having to respond to a false alarm that takes them away from family, friends, work and other potential emergencies."

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DELIVERING STRAIGHT TO YOUR DESIRED LETTERBOXES

In times of crisis, you can give

where it’s needed most

Please donate now Call us on 1300 654 910 to speak to one of our consultants or email fermax@fermax.com.au

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

1 3 S A LV O S | S A LV O S . O R G . A U

Tuesday, 17 March, 2020

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STAR JOURNAL 11

NEWS

New Kool Kidz Childcare Opening Soon Private Service Tours from Monday 30th March All Welcome

Shegofa Rahimi, Jesse Boyd and Behroz Ahnadi outside the Southern Migrant Refugee Centre

Young minds

By Jonathan McQuie

Come and Join the FUN • Family operated service • Kool Beginnings Curriculum in line with the Early Years Framework • Earth room - featuring Yoga & Jumparoo program • Healthy menus designed by Nutrition Australia • Formula provided for children under 12 months • State of the art, inger print security • Large stimulating outdoor playgrounds

12444888-NG12-20

Book your Personal Tour online at www.koolkidzchildcare.com.au

Outpatient Rehabilitation close to home

The Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre will host a two and a half day forum aimed at providing young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds with an opportunity to discuss mental health, and how services can be improved to meet their needs.

According to Cory Haugh, SMRCs General Manager of Service Delivery, mental health isn't a topic which is often discussed in migrant communities.

"Some communities may see mental health problems as a punishment from a benevolent God as a lack of faith," he said.

"This cultural stigma makes it hard for young people, who are living in two cultures, to have a conversation with their parents around ill health."

Young people from refugee backgrounds have often been exposed to trauma in varying forms, increasingly the likelihood of them developing mental health concerns.

For Mr Haugh, this forum is a chance for

them to discuss how to have conversations with relatives who may not understand how mental health is perceived in Australia.

"It's also an opportunity to ask us about how they talk to their parents and grandparents if their grandparents hold up unhealthy interpretations of mental health," he added.

On the final half-day, participants will have the opportunity to present their ideas to local government and community leaders.

While the event is directed at those from refugee and migrant backgrounds, all people between the ages of 15 -24 are welcome to attend.

"We're not excluding anyone who wants to come around and have a voice," Mr Haugh said.

The forum will be held at the Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre, on 39 Clow Street in Dandenong.

Sessions will take place between 10am and 3pm each day between Tuesday 7 and Thursday 9 April.

FOCUS ON …

MEDICALLY SPEAKING

New rehabilitation service

Easy, local access to tailored one-on-one and group rehabilitation programs led by experienced professionals.

T: 9788 3351 sjog.org.au 12444513-LB12-20

12 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 17 March, 2020

With a goal of expanding services and increasing accessibility for the community, St John of God is pleased to announce a new Outpatient Rehabilitation Service located in Stephenson House at Gibb St, Berwick.

The new service will deliver both one-toone and group therapy programs, providing patients direct access to a range of rehabilitation professionals including: Rehabilitation Physicians Physiotherapists Occupational Therapists Exercise Physiologists Dietitians “It’s very exciting for us to launch this much needed new outpatient rehabilitation service for the wider Berwick community,” said Ashley Lewis, Physiotherapy Manager of the new Berwick Outpatient Rehabilitation Service.

“Getting access to outpatient rehabilitation services can be difficult for patients without having to travel closer to Melbourne, so we’re proud to be able to offer these services

· · · · ·

directly within the local community,” Ashley explained.

The new outpatient rehabilitation services are suitable for patients following discharge from hospital as well as patients living in the community or at home that require ongoing rehabilitation support for injury or illness.

Services available at Berwick Outpatient Rehabilitation Service include: Group programs - cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, oncology rehabilitation One to one programs - orthopaedic rehabilitation and reconditioning rehabilitation Neurological rehabilitation programs are also expected to be added to the clinic’s expanding list of programs within the next 12 months.

If you are interested in pursuing your rehabilitation goals within your community, speak with your GP about being referred to St John of God Stephenson House. Call the clinic directly if you have any questions on 9788 3351.

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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

ENTERTAINMENT

Toni Childs brings the hits

By Danielle Kutchel After an incredibly well-received 55 date national tour in 2019, legendary singer-songwriter Toni Childs is returning for a further run of shows on her Retrospective Tour - and this time, she's coming to Dandenong.

Ms Childs will be touring regional New South Wales and Victoria throughout March and April 2020, and will perform at the Drum Theatre on Wednesday 18 March.

The special two hour performance will celebrate Ms Child's vast catalogue of music, including hits from her critically-acclaimed debut album Union and other favourites from across her 30-year career.

Fans will also be treated to new music from her upcoming albums It's All a Beautiful Noise, due out in 2021, and Citizens of the Planet, due out in 2025.

Ms Childs said she was excited to bring the tour to her Dandenong fans.

"I wanted to celebrate the 30th anniversary of my first album, Union, and 30 years of making music and take Retrospective out on the road.

"I feel it's important to invest in regional areas of Australia that don't normally get the love," she said.

She is also planning a special series of tours for her forthcoming albums, which will feature 3D mapping animated shows in an "injection of positivity and possibility".

They're traits she believes the world needs now more than ever - "acts of beauty defiantly, to counter the negativity and fear of this decade that are getting us out of sorts."

After 30 years in the industry, Ms Childs says she still loves to perform and can't wait to get out on stage and connect with her fans.

Toni Childs will perform hits and new music at her upcoming Dandenong show.

"It's connecting with people; it's an intimate act, in some ways it's like making love together.

"We're generating this beautiful, real, authentic release of music."

She said the shows will have the "original vibe" of her old albums thanks to the use of the

original backing tracks.

"I want people to feel like they're listening to a live record, taking all the things I've learned through my career and delivering it in a way that will make people feel like they have had one of the most beautiful experiences live," Ms Childs said.

To book tickets, visit www.drumtheatre. com.au Star News Group has a double pass to give away to Toni Child' Retrospective Dandenong show. To enter, visit starcommunity.com.au/ competitions

WHAT’S ON Red Cross Calling Hallam Friends of Red Cross will be setting up a table at Autumn Place Shops, Doveton from 10am to 2pm, Friday 27th March for Red Cross Calling. Raffle $1 per ticket, will be drawn on the day.

Enquiries Betty 9774 0194.

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 Nisbet (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.

·A Pilgrim's Walk

Join us for our next Pilgrims Walk as we explore Braeside Park. Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells around you as you stroll, or walk fast and notice the physical effects in your body. Coming to the senses is the aim of these workshops. We will start and end our walk at the Visitor's Centre and then drive to Dingley Village for a coffee.

When: Thursday 26th March 10am - 11am (meet at The Open Door at 9.40am if you'd like to car pool). Please RSVP to Jo or Tayla on 9791 8664 or theopendoor@ssjg.org.au

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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

Biggest Morning Tea For 27 years, Cancer Council's Australia's Biggest Morning Tea has brought together millions of Australians over a cup of tea in support of those affected by cancer. In 2020, the official day to host a morning tea is Thursday 28 May, but anyone can host at any time in May or June.

By hosting or attending an Australia's Biggest Morning Tea anywhere in Australia, participants will help Cancer Council continue our life-saving cancer research, prevention, advocacy and support programs.

Those who want to host can register at biggestmorningtea.com.au or call 1300 65 65 85 to receive a free morning tea host kit. Anyone unable to host a morning tea can still get involved by donating directly to Cancer Council via biggestmorningtea.com.au.

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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:

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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); Singa-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.

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University of the Third Age 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/

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Tuesday, 17 March, 2020

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

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

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Voices of Casey Voices of Casey are looking forward to an exciting program of song for 2020. We are a non-auditioned 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

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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

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

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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.

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Fun for retirees The Waverley Gardens Combined Probus Club is seeking new members from the Dandenong North, Noble Park & Springvale North areas.

Members meet for coffee and a guest speaker from 9.45am to noon on the last Tuesday of the month, and for other activities.

Southern Community Centre, Southern Reserve, 27 Rupert Dr Mulgrave. Just off Police Road! Call 9560 6046 or 0484 337 105 for more information.

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Probus Sandown The Combined Probus Club of Sandown meets on the second Monday of each month, from 9.45noon at the Noble Park Football Club. New members are welcome.

Call Ian on 0438363000.

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Looking for company and activity?

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

Come and join our very friendly group.

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

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Mental health support Depressed? Anxious? Grow offers support. Meet weekly with a group of young adults (18-35yrs) who have similar experiences and want to help.

When: the group meets weekly Monday 1:00pm at the Springvale Neighbourhood House, 46-50 Queens Ave Springvale. Come along and join or call Dishni on 9528 2977.

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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Bucks march into decider

By Nick Creely There are few clubs that can match the might of Buckley Ridges when it comes to crunch Dandenong District Cricket Association finals.

It's ingrained in the club’s culture - almost something that can’t be taught outside the four walls of the little club on Pultney Street.

But regardless of stature, or background in cricket, the Bucks always find a way to find that extra gear, whether it’s through some of their out-and-out stars, or the unsung heroes of the club that perhaps don’t always get the recognition they deserve.

While there were plenty of tense moments in the weekend’s mammoth preliminary final against Springvale South, the Bucks are now within just one win of a successful premiership defence, despite the many obstacles that have stood between skipper David White and his side.

Berwick does stand in the way of the Bucks’ back-to-back quest, but if the professional manner in which they defied the odds to knock off the Bloods in front of a strong Alex Nelson Reserve crowd was anything to go by, they’ll be a tough prospect for the Bears.

David White won the toss and elected to bat on a deck that looked, on sight, to be one tailor-made for batting, but the Bloods managed to make some strong in-roads despite the threat of the Bucks’ strong top-order.

Makeshift opener Greg Todd fell early at the hands of all-rounder Nathan King, who had his tail up and was bowling with some lively pace, and despite both skipper David White (13) and Susantha Pradeep (19) looking strong, the Bloods managed to prize out the pair and leave the visitors 3/89.

Standing tall and providing and much-need presence, Jerome Jones was absolutely rocksolid from the outset, combining with one of the club’s many unsung heroes, Jayson Hobbs (58) for a handy little stand prior to tea.

Hobbs once again provided calm as the Bloods looked to really delve into the middleorder.

After a super knock - one that saw him soak up the pressure superbly and play some attractive shots across the grounds - Hobbs looked to lift seamer Tim Ford over mid-on but picked out Nathan King to fall just after tea, but Jones was setting himself up for a big one.

Jerome Jones watches it closely during his match-defining 88 not out. 206258 A testing short-ball barrage from Nathan King saw Jones pull the bat away and remain patient as Troy Aust (16) settled in to the crease, but as the big West Indian started to become more comfortable, his power and strokeplay started to thrill the crowd, and the right-hander crossed to a half-century with a casual push to the long on boundary.

On what was a strong day of batting for the Bucks, and quite a disciplined display from the Bloods, with King (3/54) the pick of the bowlers and tweaker Jarryd Straker (2/74) battling hard to control the contest, the visitors finished 7/265 off 80 overs, with Jones finishing on a brilliant 88 not out.

Daniel Watson - still in protection mode for a hamstring complaint - contributed a more than handy 23 from lower in the order.

Knowing full well that the Bucks needed to

keep the pressure on with the Bloods a highlyconfident batting unit on its home turf, openers Nathan King and Ryan Quirk dug in to put on a brisk 43 runs for the first wicket.

But soon enough, towering quick Adrian Neill (1/36) found a way to remove the dangerous King for 25, while not long after Akshay Ballal fell victim to wily all-rounder Greg Todd (2/25) caught and bowled, suddenly leaving the home side 2/47.

But youngster Quirk was digging deep, combining nicely in a partnership with skipper Ateeq Javid (51), but as the Bucks often do when challenged in a big final, key wickets tumbled.

Removing Quirk for a brave 37 off 126 balls, the Bucks just found the breakthrough each time the Bloods managed to kick-start a partnership, but the game changer came when

DDCA premiership glory for Dingley

By Tyler Lewis and Nick Creely Dingley will return to the top flight of the Dandenong District Cricket Association after bringing home the Turf 2 title early on Sunday evening.

The Dingoes won the toss and elected to bat against the Parkmore Pirates, hoping to replicate their semi-final heroics.

After the first wicket fell with 12 on the Lois Twohig Reserve scoreboard, Luke Spears strode the crease; fresh off a scintillating 151, and there was an immense target on his back.

And just three balls into his innings he chipped one back to Niranjen Kumar without troubling the scorers and the Pirates weren’t short of enthusiasm in the middle.

But the cool heads of Matt Hague (53), Corey Booth (69) and Calvin Barlow (79) pushed the Dingley total to 263 from its 80 overs, a total in the big dance worth more than its number figure.

Amal Athulathmudali toiled away all day, bowling 30 overs for 4/111.

In reply, Parkmore was desperate for a steady start, but it didn’t go to plan early, losing Ammar Bajwa (six) inside the opening handful of overs.

Parkmore fought hard through the middle overs, and at 1/97 looked capable of accomplishing the unthinkable.

Starts from Bevan Corneille (38), Aditya Ganesh (45) and Athulathmudali (50) had the Pirates inch closer and closer to the final phase of the season.

With just 15 balls remaining, fingernails around the North Dandenong ground were on 18 STAR JOURNAL

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their last millimetres as the Pirates needed 23 runs with three wickets in the shed.

But none of the set batsmen were able to kick on for a big knock to secure the match as Milan Rathnayaka cleaned up the tail.

The Sri Lankan quick, with ice in his veins, concluded the innings in style, shattering the stumps of Bradley Vantwest and Ashwin Nash in successive balls.

Rathnayaka finished with grand final figures of 6/84 from 16 overs.

The Pirates fell agonisingly short of premiership glory, being bowled out for 256 in the final over. While the Parkmore XI would be feeling bitter disappointment, the chase was an enormous achievement despite falling short.

Dingley's Turf 2 premiership XI in season 2019/20: Matt Hague, Tom Morecroft, Luke Spears, Corey Booth, Calvin Barlow, Christo Otto, Milan Rathnayaka, Flynn McGaw, Marc King, Dyllan Andrews, and captain Damien Jordan.

In Turf 3, meanwhile, cool heads and some much-needed experience delivered Parkfield premiership glory against a brave Silverton at Keysborough.

After being sent in on day one in a clash that didn’t let up in intensity, the Bakers clawed their way to 141 from 58.4 overs, with Jesse McCarthy (48) playing a fine hand to steer the ship on a pitch that certainly didn’t assist the batters.

An equally impressive 34 from Adam Welcome was certainly vital as the Bakers pushed on from a tricky spot in the middle order to be another key cog in the competitive total.

Tuesday, 17 March, 2020

But for Parkfield, Nico Jefferey (7/30) once again shone in a memorable finals series after claiming 6/25 in the semi-final against Springvale, proving almost unplayable to be the overriding star of the contest, while Matt Goodier (3/39) was a vital foil for Jefferey with another assured display with the ball.

At one point on day two, the Parkfield side - the benchmark Turf 3 side of the season looked in a spot of bother with the Bakers relishing their underdog tag, but eventually, at six wickets down, the Parkers lifted to another gear.

The top side all season - which bats deep enough to steer its way out of trouble - was led brilliantly by skipper Steve Cannon (33 not out) and Wayne Perera (22 not out) who combined for the most important partnership of the season.

With each run so vitally important to the end result, the pair guided the Parkers to a glorious flag with four wickets still left in the shed, meaning the club will now enter the second tier of the DDCA. PREMIERS ACROSS THE GRADES: Turf 1 Reserves: Narre South Turf 2 Reserves: Dingley Turf 3 Reserves: Parkfield Turf 4: Doveton Turf 5: Doveton North Turf 6: Berwick Springs A Grade: Springvale B Grade: Cranbourne C Grade: Victorian Vikings D Grade: Dandenong West

Picture: ROB CAREW skipper Javid was trapped in front from Todd.

Bloods legend Craig Slocombe left no stone unturned in what proved to be his final innings after announcing his retirement after the clash, finding a maximum early in his dig but ultimately falling to Jerome Jones (2/31) for an entertaining 16 off 15 balls, and the home side was unable to muster up another push, with spinner Matt Goodwright (3/30) ending his golden spell with the final wicket as the home side fell for 203.

It sets up an absolutely mouth-watering grand final showdown this weekend between Berwick and the Bucks at Carroll Reserve, with Matthew Chasemore’s Bears looking to secure their first Turf 1 premiership since 2011/12, while the Bucks will be hoping to make it back to premierships in a golden era for the club.

The finals have arrived Midweek Bowls - Tuesday, 10 March Burden Park's number one team lost to Dandenong Club, 4/53 to 12/64.

Ray Thomson defeated Gordon Young 2217; Wayne Frazer defeated Rob Wilson 19-16; and John Smith lost to Anthony Buckingham 12-31.

Burden Park has made the semi-finals at Dandenong Club, scheduled to be played today (Tuesday, 17 March).

Burden Park's number two team lost to Parkdale 39-47.

Gil Newton lost to Nigel Hands 17-30; and Anita Clapperton defeated Graeme Langdon 22-17, however the Burden Park side missed the finals.

On Sunday, Burden Park hosted the Division 1 sectional final between the top two combatants - Croydon and Warburton. Warburton got away to a very quick beginning, leading 20/1 after five ends. To Croydon's credit, the side fought back to lose by just two shots. Warburton 85 defeated Croydon 83.

Also on Sunday, Burden Park hosted a Division 6 sectional final between Hampton RSL and Clayton. While Hampton RSL led for most of the day, it was Clayton who finally ran out winners. The final scores were Clayton 87 defeating Hampton RSL 73. Both finals were played at a very high standard, rounding off a great weekend of bowls.

Social bowls continues at Burden Park on Saturdays, commencing at 1pm, until winter bowls is scheduled to start on 2 May. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

A fresh start awaits Rays

By Tyler Lewis NAB LEAGUE - DANDENONG STINGRAYS SEASON PREVIEW 2019: BEST AND FAIREST: Hayden Young DRAFTEES: Mitch Riordan (mid-season draft Gold Coast Suns), Hayden Young (Fremantle), Cody Weightman (Western Bulldogs), Sam De Koning (Geelong), Bigoa Nyoun (Richmond), Ned Cahill (Essendon).

WHAT NEXT FOR THE UN-DRAFTED? Tough inside midfielder Luca Goonan has signed with the Casey Demons, and he has impressed Demons coach Sam Radford and will no doubt be under the wing of fellow hardnosed engine room operator Jimmy Munro. If he is still aspiring to get onto an AFL list, under Sam Radford's tutelage is the right place to be.

Smooth-moving wingman Lachie Williams was one of the many extremely unlucky kids to miss out on the draft. He originally was training with the Frankston Dolphins, but made the move to Punt Road to be around the success at Tigerland. Spots in the best 22 won't be easy to come by in the yellow and black, but if anyone can find one, it will be Williams.

A perfect example of the development of the Rays was the development and improvement of young midfielder Jack Toner. Toner finished second in the Stingrays best and fairest award last season, behind Hayden Young.

The hard-working midfielder played with a dry footy in the senior grand final for Narre Warren last year, and was one player who didn't lose his feet at every turn. Toner may not be a player to fill the highlight reel, but he is extremely hard working and it has been noticed.

This year, he will don a different shade of vertical stripes he wears each year, signing at the Sandringham Zebras.

Blake Kuipers is listed at Frankston and the Dandenong Stingrays. The highly publi-

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cised ex-volleyballer has athleticism like no other, was watched very closely by those down at Kardinia Park but was overlooked. When he isn't wearing the red, white and black of Frankston, he will be patrolling the arcs for the Rays in 2020. One to watch come mid-season draft time if he performs well against matured bodies in the VFL. REVIEW: Coming off their maiden premiership, 2019 was always going to be a year of expectation for the Rays. While the second half of their season wasn't their most prolific on the scoreboard, the development of players is a credit to the Dandenong system. This time last year, names such as Hayden Young, Sam De Koning and Mitch Riordan were all for the league to look forward to. But for the coaches down at Shepley Oval to aid Riordan to be unpassable come the mid-year draft is a monumental achievement in itself. The Rays fell out in the final term to an ever-running Calder outfit in a do-or-die final, but it wasn't a season to be ashamed of.

2020: COACH: Nick Cox (second season) VIC COUNTRY HUB PLAYERS: Clayton Gay, Will Bravo WHAT TO EXPECT: The 2020 Dandenong Stingrays will not die wondering, they never have. While premierships and team success is the ultimate football prize in almost every competitions, the Stingrays are always focused on developing the young talent at hand, not only as footballers but people. Under Nick Cox and Darren Flanagan, the Rays try to get as many players onto an AFL list as possible, and conversely, reiterate it isn't the be all and end all if they don't get there. Expect the Rays to trial players in a variety of positions throughout the year to give the individuals on the list the best opportunity to improve as players. The Rays certainly won't be a boring side to watch in 2020, it may only have two players on the Vic Country list heading into the opening round, but it will be a shock to absolutely no one if more Dandenong players develop as household names throughout the year courtesy of the strong system.

KEEP YOUR EYES PEELED FOR... (TOP AGE): Bryce Milford, Bayleigh Welsh.

It is hard to go past the usual suspects who are in the state hub, but Bryce Milford and Bayleigh Welsh have the potential to burst out of the so called wilderness in 2020. The pair is hard-working and over the off-season has put on some much-needed size. Milford was strong in and under last year as a bottom-ager.

Welsh is a natural leader, if he isn't pushed into the Vic Country side, expect him to poll well in the leagues Morrish Medal.

KEEP YOUR EYES PEELED FOR... (BOTTOM AGE): Josiah Kyle and Connor MacDonald.

Kyle is an excitement machine to say the least; the St Kilda Next-Gen Academy prospect is going to turn some heads this year, and even more in the year after. What he may lack in muscle, he makes up for in energy. He likes to fly for marks and weave his way through traffic. Expect him to humiliate some opponents over the next few seasons.

Making a senior football debut for Doveton

Will Bravo will be looking to have a big year and end up on an AFL list.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS against Monbulk would be a scary thought.

But not for Connor MacDonald; at just (age) 16, MacDonald not only debuted for Doveton in a hostile clash against Monbulk, but was awarded best afield, winning the David George Medal. It's not every day a youngster could say he outplayed Matthew Boyd. MacDonald has attributes that can't be taught; he won't be overawed by the occasion of big games and will be more than a handy player for the Rays in 2020.

WHAT THE COACH SAYS: "We are pretty pleased of the standard of the list so far, which will be around 48-50," he said.

"We believe we have a really honest, hardworking squad who will be able to compete in the NAB League for long periods of time.

"There are no real high-end standouts at this stage, but I am sure the boys will be able to turn that through their development throughout the year.

"We internally rate a lot of our players; that will be seen a lot throughout the year.

"Will Bravo and Clayton Gay are in the Hub,

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their standards at training have been really good throughout the preseason which we have been really pleased with.

"We have a lot of blokes who haven't been talked about too much; we are quietly confident that we are going to get the boys to the level through developing them as we go along.

"We are really pleased with our bottom-end (agers), it is great we have got them up to a level where they are contributing really well where they are pushing their case to play round 1.

"There are six to 10 that could do that, Josiah Kyle is an exciting product.

"We will play a brand that we think will be able to get kids developed and get kids drafted.

"We will see a high energy side that will take the game on as much as possible, show their natural talent, shows their ability to win one-on-ones, and hopefully that will be good enough."

The Dandenong Stingrays will finalize their list after the final practice match on Sunday against the Sandringham Dragons.

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

Open Mon – Sun 9am – 11pm Tuesday, 17 March, 2020

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