Dandenong Star Journal - 1st December 2020

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Tuesday, 1 December, 2020

Mercy granted

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A jealous man who tracked and brutally pummeled his estranged wife’s new beau at a country getaway has escaped ‘mandatory’ jail after her impassioned mercy plea to the court.

In a “unique” and “exceptional” case, the County Court of Victoria granted mercy to the Endeavour Hills man to spare hardship to his ex-wife and - in the main - to his three young children on the autism spectrum.

The Star Journal has chosen not to name the man so as to not identify the children.

The man had tracked the couple with a mobile phone in her car’s boot to a Halls Gap cottage late at night in August 2018.

Armed with a metal pole, he entered the cabin and bashed the male victim with “full force”.

Six or seven “substantial” blows struck the victim’s head and several to the torso, judge David Brookes said during sentencing on 20 November.

The victim managed to hide in vegetation.

He sought help at a neighbouring cottage where he fell unconscious.

In hospital, he received stitches for deep

cuts behind his ear, to his forehead and leg.

He later told police that he thought he was going to die during the attack.

At one stage, the attacker stood over him and directly struck him with the pole to the forehead.

The accused man told his former wife not to be afraid.

He then drove at least 260 kilometres to Dandenong police station, where he made fulsome admissions about 2.25am.

According to the defendant, he had known about the couple’s “friendship”.

But until his arrival at the cottage that night, he didn’t realise their relationship was romantic.

This spontaneously spurred his violent reaction, he argued.

The man pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary with an intent to assault - an offence punishable with a maximum 25 years’ jail.

He also pleaded guilty to intentionally causing injury and contravening a bail condition.

On 20 November, Judge David Brookes noted that too often perpetrators are men who act with a “possessive violent rage” after a break-up.

Continued page 7

Making it happen X Factor Australia contestant Mary Ann Van Der Horst is storming the world to win at Switzerland’s St Moritz Music Awards 2020 with her original song ‘Make It Happen’. She is set to appear at a very different Greater Dandenong Carols event this month.

Turn to page 10.

Picture: GARY SISSONS

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NEWS

Stuck in a tight quack

By Gabriella Payne The Keysborough Fire Brigade are no strangers to dangerous situations, always on call for those in need of help - but a recent rescue came as quite a surprise when instead of a fire emergency, the team were sent to the aid of one stuck little duckling.

A local homeowner made the call for help upon realising that a friendly mother duck and her eight ducklings had lost a family member, after the unlucky duck fell down the storm water drain on Friday 20 November.

Emmanuel Vella, one of the firefighters at the scene, said that it was quite an unusual call out for the team but they were happy to help save the little duck.

“It was a bit different,” Mr Vella said. “I mean we’ve obviously had bird rescues before and cats in trees and cats behind hot water services and stuff like that - but we haven’t had a duck in a storm water drain before.”

Mr Vella said that when he and his colleagues arrived, they couldn’t see the duck but they could hear it quacking in the pipes below and realised that the rescue would prove to be quite tricky.

“It was difficult,” he said.

“The storm water drain was probably about 10 - 20 centimetres in diameter, if that, so I tried to reach my hand and my whole arm to see if I could grab the duck, but the duck scooted through the piping system.”

After a failed first attempt, Mr Vella and his fellow firefighters went back to the drawing board and came up with an ingenious plan to “flush” the duck out of the pipes safely.

“We didn’t really want to dig up the pipes because then that would have been a cost to the person who lived there,” Mr Vella said.

Instead, the team poured water into the resident’s house guttering system, which flowed through the stormwater, gently pushing the

A tight spot.

Flat out at the rescue. duckling back within arms reach.

Mr Vella said that while this plan had worked, the matter of catching the duckling proved trickier than they had thought.

“I could feel the duck, but I couldn’t grab it for the life of me,” he said.

After about three near misses, Mr Vella said the rescuers reconsidered digging up the pipes again; “I could feel it pecking away at my fingertips and then it sort of scooted through again and I thought I’d lost it for good,” he said.

While Mr Vella took a break from duck catching duties, fellow firefighter Mat Muller decided to have a go, flushing the mischievous

Pictures: SHANDELLE ROSS bird back into arms’ reach once again and sticking his arm down the drain.

“Mat put his arm down and he must have the golden touch, because within seconds he managed to pull it out,” Mr Vella said.

The rescue mission lasted “a good half an hour to 45 minutes” according to Mr Vella and overall was a great success, with the little duckling being reunited with its mother and siblings once again.

The team hopes the little duckling has learnt from its mistake and won’t be making any more big splashes any time soon, but if it does, you know who to call!

The duckling is free at last.

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NEWS

Santa Clause Zooms in

By Gabriella Payne

Bouncer is spared jail

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A nightclub bouncer has been spared jail after knocking out a drunken patron who was being restrained on the ground.

Nikos Karagiannis, now 49, “unnecessarily” left his post to join in the assault after two other crowd-controllers threw the victim to the ground in front of the Southbank venue about 3am on 5 November 2018.

He kneed the “relatively defenceless” victim to the face as his colleagues held the victim down on his back, Victorian County Court judge Paul Lacava said on 20 November.

The first blow rendered the male unconscious, Judge Lacava stated.

Then a few seconds later, Karagiannis kneed the victim’s face again.

“You had no need to involve yourself. You left your post at the nightclub and deliberately inserted yourself in an assault on the victim.

“The victim was alcohol affected and relatively defenceless when you twice kneed him in the face in what can only be described as an unprovoked and cowardly assault.”

After inflicting the blows, Karagiannis returned to his post and wiped the victim’s blood from his trousers.

The unconscious victim’s injuries were lifethreatening, including profuse bleeding from a cut artery in his tongue.

Due to the risk of bleeding and swelling in the airway, he was intubated in The Alfred hospital.

He was put in an induced coma to prevent death.

The victim later developed aspirational pneumonia, a type of lung infection due to swallowing blood.

Karagiannis pleaded guilty to recklessly

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causing serious injury - a charge that was confined to the victim’s broken nose and a concussion that lingered for nearly two weeks.

The prosecution couldn’t prove Karagiannis was responsible for the tongue injury and complications, due to other bouncers assaulting the victim without Karagiannis’s involvement.

“Had the prosecution been able to prove beyond reasonable doubt all of the injuries and complications were caused by your actions, I would have sent you to jail,” Judge Lacava said.

Judge Lacava said he empathised with the “profoundly” impacted victim, who stated his concern that his full range of injuries couldn’t be taken into account.

The judge noted Karagiannis’s unblemished, hard-working record as a security guard over several decades. Colleagues and referees had stated the assault was out of character.

Karagiannis lost his job as a result of the incident. He then set up a home-based autotint business that had suffered due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Judge Lacava said the defendant had no prior convictions, pleaded guilty at an early stage, and showed remorse and regret.

He had “good” rehabilitation prospects and was unlikely to offend like this again.

A psychiatrist submitted that Karagiannis’s “acute stress reaction” led to him overreacting in such a violent manner. Judge Lacava dismissed this as “speculation”.

He accepted the dependent suffered depression and anxiety from time to time.

Karagiannis was sentenced to a two-anda-half-year supervised community correction order, including 150 hours of unpaid work and mental health treatment.

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Nikos Karagiannis, back left, stands next to the victim held to the ground by nightclub crowdcontrollers on 5 November 2018.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas ... only this year there’s a sprinkling of social distancing in the air and to adhere to the new Covid normal, the Dandenong Market has organised a “very 2020” Christmas surprise for children of all ages.

For the first time ever, Santa, Mrs Claus and the elves will be making their annual festive appearance in a very twenty-first century way - dialling in from the North Pole via Zoom!

One-on-one sessions with Santa and his jolly crew will run between 10am and 4pm on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 December, and will allow kids to share their Christmas wishes all whilst maintaining Covid-safe practices.

Dandenong Market general manager, Jennifer Hibbs, said that the Christmas cheer and excitement was spreading amongst staff as they anticipated the arrival of this year’s virtual Santa.

“We believe it could be a world first for Santa to be ‘Zoomed’ in to discuss your Christmas wish list and admit to being naughty or nice this year,” Ms Hibbs said.

“When we asked Santa about Zooming with kids in our community, he loved the idea. Meeting the children who visit him at the Market every year is his favourite part of Christmas,” she added.

Children and families will have the opportunity to “strike a pose virtually” with Santa and his friends, and record a Christmas message that “the kids will never forget”.

This new virtual version of Santa’s regular visit will also cater to children with au-

tism and special needs, as the Dandenong Market team make sure that sensitivities are taken into account and no one is left out of the fun.

“A Zoom call provides an even more supportive environment which eliminates bright lights and loud noises that can trigger sensory sensitivities for someone on the spectrum,” Ms Hibbs said.

She said that just because a child was on the spectrum, didn’t mean they deserved to miss out on the experience.

“These children will feel safest in their own home and can enjoy one-on-one time with the holiday icon from their own lounge room,” she said.

“We are hoping to make this a unique and memorable experience for the entire family.”

To go into the running to receive a Zoom call from Santa, families need to fill out an entry form via the Dandenong Market’s website and post it in Santa’s express letter box in Market Square.

Winners will be chosen at random until all meet and greet spots are filled, and those who miss out are encouraged to still write to Santa via the special Christmas market post box.

On top of that, children have the opportunity to see Santa as he visits the market next Tuesday 1 December, where he plans to buy carrots for the reindeer and donuts for the elves before Zooming in early with one lucky family at 10:30am that day.

Visit the Dandenong Market website for more information and get in early for your chance to Zoom with Santa and his merry friends.

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NEWS

A rich vein of generosity

By Gabriella Payne An urgent appeal for blood donations from the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Centre last week has sparked a sense of community action, with people banding together to give generously after a difficult year.

When members of the Dandenong Church of Christ heard about the nationwide blood shortage, they saw it as an opportunity to do something good and give back to those in need.

After putting out the call for donors, the Church of Christ was thrilled to see approximately 20 members of their congregation come together on Sunday 22 November at the Ringwood donation centre.

Andrew Fisher, the resident minister of the Dandenong congregation said that it was great to see so many members of the church community roll up their sleeves and give blood together, especially as some had never donated before.

“The first time donors were a little bit nervous,” Mr Fisher said.

“It can be a little daunting and scary, but when you consider the outcome... you know you’ll be able to possibly save someone’s life.”

Mr Fisher said the group were motivated to give blood after hearing about the appeal, to help boost Australia’s blood bank levels and to fulfil their Christian duties and help those in need.

The blood drive was organised as part of the church’s “INCGiving Project” which Mr Fisher said is based on the statement “whenever you possibly can, do good to those who need it”, from Proverbs 3:27 GNB in the Bible.

“When you compare a little prick in your arm to possibly saving someone’s life, it’s not much of a sacrifice to make on our part,” he said.

According to Red Cross Lifeblood, this

Donors were made to feel comfortable. year’s pandemic has meant that fewer donors have been giving blood around the country, with 1200 donors cancelling or not turning up to their appointments every day.

Lifeblood executive director Cath Stone said 31,000 donations are needed every week across Australia, in order to “help patients in times of trauma, major surgery, cancer treatment, pregnancy and a host of other situations”.

“We saw the absolute best of the community throughout the pandemic with donors continuing to come in, however, this recent trend of decreasing appointments and increasing cancellations is concerning,” Ms Stone said.

Donating blood is an essential service and hopefully with the help of community groups like Mr Fisher’s congregation and the easing of restrictions, Lifeblood will begin to see more and more people venturing in to their centres.

Mr Fisher said that for anyone considering donating, he would highly recommend the experience, saying that the staff were “amazing”, all donors were made to “feel really comfortable” and the complimentary post-donation

Members of the congregation ready to donate. snacks were an added bonus.

The Dandenong Church of Christ are already organising their next group donation, but will have to wait a few weeks first.

“We’re definitely going to make this a regular thing and hopefully we can help out as many people as we can,” Mr Fisher said.

He added that if anyone in the community is thinking of donating for the first time, it might be a good idea to go with a group of friends like his congregation did, so as to not feel “all alone”.

“If there is anything that would encourage

you as a first time donor to go, it might be to bring a whole bunch of others with you. You’d be helping by giving more blood and you’d also be helping yourself by having some moral support by your side, to hold your hand if needed,” Mr Fisher said.

For those interested in giving blood, the Red Cross Lifeblood pop-up donor centre will be visiting Dandenong from Monday 7 December to Friday 11 December at the St Mary’s Community Centre on New Street.

Appointments are required. For more information visit www.donateblood.com.au

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NEWS

Locals caught by surprise flooding

Sewer spill

By Gabriella Payne A heavy morning downpour on Monday 23 November caught people in the Greater Dandenong region off guard, as properties and roads were flooded and people rescued after being trapped by the sudden rain.

In just a four hour window, between 6am and 10am, Dandenong recorded 61 millilitres of rain, putting it at the higher end of the scale for the Melbourne metro area.

As the wet weather rolled across the city, flood waters began to rise causing property damage and blocking off roads.

Over the four hour period of heavy rainfall, the SES received and attended 13 calls for help within Greater Dandenong, two of those being rescues on flooded motorways.

Daniel Cooksley, SES unit controller for Greater Dandenong said that this might not be the last flooding event of the year and locals should be prepared for more heavy downpours.

“It’s a bit of a La Niña year at the moment, so the ground is already saturated,” Mr Cooksley said.

Meteorologists are predicting that more wet weather is on the way for Melbourne due to the La Niña system, sometimes referred to as a “cold event”, where below-average sea surface temperatures across the east-central Equatorial Pacific affect our weather system.

“We will have above average rainfall, they’re saying into November and December, so we’re likely to get more events of this nature,” Mr Cooksley said.

Floodwaters can be very dangerous and Mr

Drivers should be aware of their surroundings during flood events.

Cooksley stressed the importance of locals being prepared for more sudden downpours.

“It’s a timely reminder for people to check their properties, make sure all their gutters are clear, make sure their driveways are clear and to never drive through flood waters,” Mr Cooksley said.

According to the SES, it only takes 15 centimetres of water to float a car and Mr Cooksley reiterated the message, adding that people should always act with caution if caught in a flood situation and be aware of their surroundings.

Thankfully no one was injured in Monday’s

flooding and as there were no winds, no trees came down and caused damage.

Mr Cooksley said that the majority of property damage had been caused by the floodwaters and that people out walking near local creeks should take care.

“Certainly the creeks are still high so around Dandenong Creek, Mile Creek and Eumemmerring Creek, if people are out walking just be aware,” he said.

For more information on how to get flood prepared, visit https://www.ses.vic.gov.au/ get-ready/floodsafe.

A sudden bout of heavy rainfall on Monday 23 November has caused a sewer to overflow in Noble Park, leaving South East Water teams to clean up the mess.

According to South East Water spokesman Charlie Littlefair, “small amounts of wastewater” overflowed and entered the stormwater system and subsequently, found their way into the nearby stormwater outlet at Mile Creek.

Mr Littlefair said South East Water was “very sorry this happened” and were working with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) to “clean up the spill and minimise the environmental impact”.

Although South East Water’s sewer system is designed to accommodate rain, torrential downpours such as the one seen on Monday can result in large amounts of stormwater entering the sewer system at a time, inundating the network of pipes and causing overflows.

Once an overflow occurs, wastewater can enter the stormwater system, making its way into creeks, rivers and eventually bays.

“We design our sewer system to protect our customers by enabling the excess stormwater that enters the sewer system to discharge to nearby waterways, instead of into our customers’ homes,” Mr Littlefair said.

John Lees, spokesperson for the EPA Southern Metro said that South East Water had “done the right thing” by reporting the incident and beginning the clean up immediately.

“By the time we got on site, they were already cleaning up and there was no odour detected.”

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Aziz health scare under IBAC probing

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Casey ex-mayor Sam Aziz has had a medical scare while under heavy questioning at an IBAC inquiry over fresh claims of an alleged side-deal with a council contractor.

The inquiry’s live-stream broadcast - on 15 minutes delay - was shut down suddenly early in the afternoon session on Tuesday 24 November.

On resumption shortly after 3pm, Mr Aziz’s screen was blank as IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich announced that the hearings would be adjourned.

Mr Redlich said Mr Aziz had indicated that he’d suffered heartburn and wanted to resume.

But given Mr Aziz’s medical history, the hearings wouldn’t resume until the witness was granted medical clearance, Mr Redlich said.

Prior to the scare, Mr Aziz was coming to the end of his sixth and final day of gruelling evidence at the anti-corruption inquiry.

Mr Redlich had just taken issue with Mr Aziz’s denials of a perceived conflict of interest over artificial-intelligence company IPsoft’s contract negotiations with Casey Council.

Mr Aziz had introduced IPsoft to Casey officers and moved motions to support their interests. At the same time, he was allegedly negotiating a personal financial side-deal, the IBAC hearing heard.

IPsoft paid Mr Aziz $30,800 soon after Casey paid $42,705 to trial IPsoft’s AI robot, Amelia, the IBAC inquiry heard.

On covert phone recordings in November 2018, Mr Aziz was heard requesting the sidedeal no longer be termed a ‘referring agreement’.

He says it should be a “generic consulting agreement that talks broadly about the local government sector”.

He told IPsoft senior sales executive Hany Ayad that he’d sign his contract after Casey awarded the Amelia contract.

Mr Ayad asks Mr Aziz if IPsoft was successful, “would we still contract directly with Casey,

Sam Aziz at the IBAC hearing, shortly before a medical episode on 24 November. or with you, and you contract with Casey?”

“You contract directly with Casey,” Mr Aziz says.

“I basically have nothing to do with it.”

Mr Aziz says he has to inform Casey’s chief executive of the deal. Otherwise it should be kept “confidential - just strictly between you and I”.

At the IBAC inquiry, Mr Aziz said the agreement was designed to avoid a conflict of interest.

He denied there was a “kickback”.

“The work they wanted me to do was totally unrelated to the City of Casey.”

Counsel assisting IBAC, Michael Tovey accused him of wanting to amend the agreement so it wasn’t so obviously linked to City of Casey’s contract.

“All these other concepts you’re talking about is just stuff you’re making up to make

the intolerable marginally tolerable, isn’t it Mr Aziz?

“I disagree entirely,” Mr Aziz said.

Mr Tovey noted at that stage Mr Aziz’s fee appeared unknown.

“So you’re saying to him - we can’t work out how much he has to pay you until we know how much Casey Council is paying him.”

Mr Aziz said they were waiting to finalise his consulting fee because the Casey pilot would be modelled in other environments.

They didn’t yet know the cost of the trial.

Mr Aziz said a Casey’s governance director advised he didn’t have a conflict of interest because the IPsoft contract decision was being made by a council officer.

“The advice I was giving them wasn’t anything to do with the City of Casey.”

Mr Redlich told Mr Aziz that the “flaw in your thinking” was that if there was no contract and only pre-contractual discussions, then there was no conflict of interest.

“Do you not see that by these machinations of yours you were simply playing with the rules to avoid disclosure of the fact that a significant contract that is about to be entered into with the council is being made at a time when you, a prime mover in persuading the council and the council officers to adopt this proposal, are in the course of securing for yourself a significant financial benefit?”

A second tapped phone call was about to be played when Mr Redlich asked if Mr Aziz was “feeling all right”.

“No, Commissioner, I’m not. I’m not at the moment.”

Mr Redlich adjourned, as he requested that Mr Aziz get assistance.

Earlier that day, Mr Aziz told the inquiry that he’d suffered heart failure while on a councilfunded trip to address an IPsoft artificial intelligence summit in New York in May 2018.

He was hospitalised then for five days, and missed the summit, Mr Aziz said.

At the time, Casey was negotiating with IPsoft about the Amelia pilot.

Aziz rebutts IBAC ‘ratbag con’ claim

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Jim’s Mowing founder Jim Penman paid more than $12,000 to Casey ex-mayor Sam Aziz to help ‘take over’ Yarra Ranges Council, IBAC has heard.

Mr Aziz told the Operation Sandon inquiry on 24 November that he was on a $1000-plusGST-a-month retainer for more than a year to advise on installing a like-minded group of councillors in 2020.

Mr Penman was happy to spend between $80,000-$100,000 on the election campaign, Mr Aziz told the inquiry.

“I said to him that the best way to go ... is for good quality candidates to actually undertake their own fundraising,” Mr Aziz said.

“That way they’ve got a stake in the campaign.”

Mr Aziz restated that he wasn’t aware of allegedly corrupt developer John Woodman paying about $90,000 towards Mr Aziz’s centrally-managed election campaign for about 20 candidates in Casey in 2016.

He also denied that the candidates were chosen for their perceived support of Mr Woodman’s push to rezone industrial land in Cranbourne West - otherwise known as Amendment C219.

Mr Aziz couldn’t recall whether he told the proposed Yarra Ranges campaign manager Janet Halsall that Mr Penman would finance the entire campaign like “we’ve had campaigns in Casey”.

“It was different with Mr Penman because he was looking at putting wholesale funds up to support a number of candidates,” he told the inquiry.

“But when it came to Casey, because the 6 STAR JOURNAL

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campaigns were hotly contested, I focused on the strategy.

“So however the funds were raised was not something that I got involved in.”

Mr Aziz had told the inquiry he was an “expert” in getting candidates elected to council.

He was approached by Mr Penman who was “very frustrated” with the council’s administration, he said.

He was unaware at the time of Mr Penman’s plans for a sporting complex reportedly being rebuffed by Yarra Ranges Council.

At the inquiry, Mr Aziz sought to correct Mr Penman’s reported claims about him in an “absolutely abhorrent” media interview.

“I don’t know how he could get the impression that I was a disgusting ratbag who conned him when that was never the nature of our interactions,” Mr Aziz said.

“I’ve actually obliged with everything he asked me to do.”

He denied Mr Penman’s allegation that Mr Aziz was paid $1000-a-week. The retainer was $1000-a-month plus GST. Mr Aziz’s “assignment” was interrupted by an overseas travel break. “I stopped billing him from that point forward”.

Mr Penman wanted to consult with Mr Aziz on other projects such as a “Jim’s Bank”, and invited him on the Jim’s Group board, Mr Aziz told the inquiry.

“He was clearly happy with the work and services I was providing him.”

Mr Aziz had bought a “family franchise” from Jim’s Group. He later “got out” of it because the business model “wasn’t working for us”.

The pair were introduced by Mr Aziz’s

Tuesday, 1 December, 2020

“friend” and then-Jim’s Group chief executive Tino Grossi.

In 2016, Mr Aziz instigated an election campaign to elect like-minded councillors on Casey Council.

He enlisted Casey ex-mayor Janet Halsall to manage the re-election campaigns of Mr Aziz, Geoff Ablett, Damien Rosario, Wayne Smith and Amanda Stapledon, he said.

A new candidate - whose name has been suppressed by the inquiry - was also successfully elected.

Mr Woodman and Ms Wreford have told IBAC that Mr Woodman bankrolled the Casey election campaign with between $50,000 and $90,000.

Candidates were allegedly supported on whether they were “friendly” towards Mr Woodman’s push for Amendment C219.

False invoices for the campaign were allegedly funnelled through Ms Halsall’s mattress shop.

According to Ms Wreford, Mr Aziz pitched the scheme to Mr Woodman over lunch at a Chinese restaurant in Dandenong.

Mr Aziz told IBAC that Mr Woodman and Ms Wreford weren’t “decision makers” on the campaign.

“I supported people that Mr Woodman didn’t even know were coming forward to contest the election.

“He was not consulted about the candidates.”

Mr Aziz said he organised “strategy and policy that they put forward” and oversaw pamphlet designs.

Every candidate was responsible for their own campaign expenses. All held a fundraiser, he said.

Sam Aziz and John Woodman in a Subway outlet in Skye.

Picture: IBAC

A bloody nickname

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Developer John Woodman’s nick-name ‘Blood Donor’ had no connotation with vampires, sucking blood, or being paid by him, former Casey councillor Sam Aziz told an IBAC inquiry.

Mr Aziz said he instigated the nickname for Mr Woodman - who is being investigated for alleged corrupt payments to Casey councillors including Mr Aziz and ex-mayor Geoff Ablett.

It started when Mr Woodman and himself worked on a charity project with Monash Children’s Hospital and Casey Hospital in 2016, Mr Aziz said.

“He approached me and asked me if Council was willing to commit to some funds for this charity project.

“I said, ‘John, what makes you interested in this? I mean, this is a side of health that I wasn’t aware that you would be interested in.’

“He said, ‘No, I think about health all the time.’

“And then he jokingly said, ‘I sometimes think about donating blood as well.’”

Mr Aziz was asked whether ‘Blood Donor’ alluded to vampires sucking blood or being paid by him.

“It had nothing of the certain nature that you suggest,” Mr Aziz replied.

In 2018, Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon had allegedly approached Mr Woodman for support for her mayoral tilt.

In a covertly-surveilled call on 29 October 2018, Mr Aziz asks Ms Wreford if the “BD is happy” in relation to Ms Stapledon’s mayoral victory.

“Very,” Ms Wreford says.

“Good,” Mr Aziz replies.

“She deserves it more than anybody,” Ms Wreford says.

“I just can’t say it enough that ... greed finally hasn’t won out.”

Michael Tovey, IBAC’s counsel assisting, asserted that Mr Aziz had been recorded three times asking whether the ‘Blood Donor’ was happy with aspects of the mayoral election.

Mr Aziz told the inquiry his statement was “pure banter” after a “bitterly fought” election.

“I said, ’Is the Blood Donor happy,’ because I’m sure everybody was watching the election, including the Blood Donor.”

The next day, 30 October 2018, Ms Wreford asks Mr Aziz whether “the Blood Donor can sleep at night” in relation to the council’s upcoming vote on a Woodman-linked issue - the H3 intersection in Cranbourne West.

“Of course he can,” Mr Aziz replied.

Mr Aziz told IBAC that he was “simply entertaining hubris”.

“If I had to correct Wreford on every conversation our conversations would have gone on for days.

“Our interest was always the best outcomes for the Casey community.”

IBAC Commissioner Robert Redlich asserted it was inappropriate for a serving councillor to convey such information to Mr Woodman via his lobbyist Ms Wreford.

“I would have to give a qualified yes, Commissioner,” Mr Aziz said.

“It’s not just me, Commissioner, but unfortunately it’s the nature of the beast.” dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Budget joy for schools

By Gabriella Payne Local schools and roads are the big winners in the State Government’s 2020/21 budget.

Announced on Tuesday 24 November, the budget purportedly delivers the “single biggest investment ever in our schools”, according to the State Government, as students return to campus after months of online learning.

Lyndale Secondary College is set to receive $10.8 million, to complete stage four of a $27.6 million upgrade that began in 2015.

The school’s acting principal, Pam Robinson, said they were “very excited” to hear the news and that “it was like Christmas come early”.

“Since 2015, the school has been transformed, including a state-of-the-art library with indoor and outdoor reading areas, STEM and arts buildings as well as a flight simulator for VET Aviation students,” Ms Robinson said.

“The latest stage will create a new senior

Kingswood Primary School principal Aaron Cox, school captains Mathias and Cerin and Keysborough MP Martin Pakula. 221755 school, middle-school and sports centre facilities,” she added, with works expected to be completed by 2022.

Three other local schools will also receive funding, with Emerson College, Carwatha P-12 College and Kingswood Primary School in Dingley Village set to share $24 million to go towards various building projects.

Member for Dandenong, Gabrielle Williams, said: “With new learning spaces for local schools, this budget invests in our kids and importantly - invests in their futures.“ Another key part of this year’s budget is funding for a “local roads blitz”, which will improve the metropolitan road network and create jobs in the process.

The South Gippsland Highway widening project will receive $12.63 million to “improve traffic flow and increase capacity” between Lynbrook Boulevard and the Dandenong Bypass.

A road bridge is also being built to remove the level crossing on the South Gippsland Highway and create a new, safer intersection at the Princes Highway - a crossing which 31,000 vehicles pass through each day.

“The new road bridge being built to remove the dangerous and congested South Gippsland Highway, Dandenong level crossing is beginning to take shape,” Ms Williams said.

Major construction began in August this year and the Government aims for the level crossing to be gone by the year 2022.

“With around 40 percent of Victoria’s manufacturing located in Melbourne’s south-east, this vital project will improve freight networks in the area, supporting the local economy and jobs,” she added.

The Webster Street level crossing will also be removed by the year 2025, as part of the Victorian Government’s $15 billion investment to improve the Cranbourne and Pakenham train line.

After a rollercoaster ride of a year, Ms Williams hoped that the announcement of the funding would help pave the way for a bright future for the local community moving forward.

“We want to not only recover, but to recover stronger and fairer. That’s what this budget will deliver for people in Dandenong,” Ms Williams said.

Mercy granted to father in ‘exceptional’ court ruling From Page 1 These types of “domestic” aggravated burglaries had the potential to escalate to “serious harm” and “real tragedy”.

Judge Brookes noted the defendant had no prior convictions, made great strides to rehabilitate and was generally remorseful.

But it was only “exceptional” hardship to his family that spared him a “normally mandatory” jail term.

It was “paradoxical” that the leniency benefited the mother, who was one of the victims.

Which was why mercy could only be ex-

tended in “stringent circumstances,” Judge Brookes said.

A clinical report stated the children were diagnosed as ASD Level 2, requiring substantial support for their entire lives.

They depended on routine. Great life changes could cause a “cascading” cognitive and developmental impacts over many years.

In a letter to the court, the man’s former wife argued she couldn’t “fathom the damage” to the children if their father was jailed.

“It would turn their little worlds upsidedown,” she wrote.

As the primary caregiver, she relied on

him financially and to help her solely focus on her children’s needs.

He paid the mortgage on the family home as well as for the children’s special schools and uniforms.

Without his support, she and the children would be likely uprooted, seeking a new home, schools and therapists.

With limited help from family, her only respite was provided by the defendant twice a week. It allowed her time to rest, shop, do housework.

She described even a simple trip to buy bread would require pre-communication

with the children.

It would often be cancelled due to their anxiety in going to the shops.

The children would “count down the sleeps” for the regular fun activities with their “far more focused” Dad, she wrote.

“If they were to find out (the defendant) was in jail, it would send them so far backwards.”

The man was placed on a four-year supervised community corrections order. It included 200 hours of unpaid work.

Up to 100 hours of the work component could be used for mental health treatment.

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STAR JOURNAL 7

LOOKING BACK

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

100 years ago 2 December 1920 Railway Station Subdivision It is seldom indeed that an opportunity is afforded of buying, at first cost Building Blocks at a Railway Station. It matters not how far you go from the Metropolis this fact remains and yet such a chance is open to anyone who liked to attend the sale of the Dandenong Railway Station Subdivision on Saturday 11 December, on the ground adjoining the Railway Station on the south side, and the terms are made to meet the position of anyone £2 deposit and £1 per month.

50 years ago 26 November 1970 Football Furore In a sensational outburst at Dandenong

Council on Monday Night, Cr Keith Miller alleged he has been asked to resign as chairman of Dandenong Football Club’s selection committee by club president Mr Cal Downard. Cr Miller’s statement, later denied by Mr Downard has caused a furore in football club circles. It was brought to head rumours concerning the football club hierarchy which have been rife in Dandenong for some time.

In his shock statement to council made while councillors were discussing football club objections to amended building plans for Shepley Oval. “I was requested by the president of Dandenong Football Club Mr Carl Downard to resign as chairman of the selection committee because coach Hugh Mitchell did not agree with me.” Mr Downard who was in the public gallery told the Journal “The statement made by Cr Miller concerning his resignation is not correct as he simply elected to resign from the selection committee.”

OPINION Abstaining is undemocratic A five-all vote deadlock with an 11 member council as reported on page 1 of Star Journal, 24 November, poses the question - why?

We have 11 councillors precisely to avoid this and why elected mayors can diffuse a lockdown scenario by exercising a casting vote. All the more reason why electing a mayor and a deputy mayor are essential for responsible, stable local democratic governance and is the very reason why the job of electing the city’s chiefs are left to the councillors and not the public. All votes are equal with the majority collectively determining the final outcome.

The fact that a newly elected councillor expressed the view that “I don’t respond to pressure but do what I think is right. It was my legal right” with regards to his decision to not exercise his right as councillor to vote for a deputy mayor and a mayor is quite baffling.

It is troubling if certain councillors felt

pressured. This suggests a certain unhealthy pattern of expected allegience and factional grouping which should not be a reason for abstaining from voting or determining how a vote on council is cast.

All residents have a right to open, transparent representative government. This is why we elect our governments and why it becomes a foremost duty of all elected councillors to vote in a representative, non-conflicting way.

There is no place for troubling factional or personal politics within decision making in the council chambers on matters that are relevant to the public. Councillor Bob Milkovic expressed the reason why he chose to abstain from and the reason for him failing to exercise his first votes for both the mayor and the deputy as “responding to pressure“. This resulted in the contest reportedly being decided behind the scenes. This is not indicitive of open, transparent, accountable governance.

Geraldine Gonsalvez, Dandenong

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27 November 2000 Market forces push A stallholder at the Dandenong Market has sought legal advice over the cost of roof extension, while 100 more have signed a motion of no confidence in the market’s management group. The petition dated October 13 stating that the petitioners had no confidence in the market manages Boyuan Holdings, was presented at last weeks Dandenong council meeting. A covering letter. Signed on behalf of the stallholders by businesswomen Ms Jenifer Sundastrom, dated October 17, questioned the results of a survey about the market conducted on behalf of Greater Dandenong council. The letter stated the survey did not reflect the thoughts of the majority of stallholders and was a waste of time and

money. It stated other stall holders declined to sign the petition for fear of retribution and requested that only councillors responded to the petition.

5 years ago 30 November 2015 Input on Track Community input could stop Noble Park grade separation from destroying the suburb’s heart, according to City of Greater Dandenong. The council is urging the State Government to accept its thoughts on plans to remove the level crossing at Heatherton, Chandler and Corrigan roads. Councillor Roz Blades said she was concerned that the community would be forced to accept a rail over road design. “I reckon it would be disastrous for Noble Park,” she said. “We want the same model as Springvale.”

Gratitude for everyday

By Pam Mamouney OAM from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Will the world ever be the same after this COVID-19 pandemic?

It will be different, but I hope we will have learnt from this experience and will make changes that improve our lives, our community and our nation.

Surely, there are lessons to be learned and we will come out of this pandemic stronger and better than before.

Little things become more important as we regain our freedom after this stressful lockdown.

My friends and I were so excited when we could get together again to play cards, they jumped for joy. Not so long ago we took that privilege for granted.

Gratitude and appreciation for our blessings will help us maintain this spirit of resilience.

One church leader in the Christian faith, Russel M. Nelson, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints recently posted a challenge to the world to help us all.

He was speaking about the healing power of gratitude.

Gratitude provides us with a greater perspective on the very purpose and joy of life.

Counting our blessings is far better than recounting our problems.

He challenged the citizens of the world to keep a Gratitude journal and to post on social media for seven days what we are grateful for, if you do this you will feel happier.

I did this some 40 years ago after I suddenly and unexpectedly became a single mother, responsible for five children from four to nineteen years of age.

Every day, I wrote in my journal one thing I was grateful for.

The flowers in my garden, the birds singing to me, a phone call, a walk on the beach, a good book to read, or a lovely sunset.

This really helped me to keep my spirits up and to cope with the challenges of life.

MESSAGE OF

HOPE Today my family have taken up this Gratitude challenge and post on Facebook each day.

With amusement I read a recent post by my daughter.

She was grateful for her compost bins.

What? They had four of them: “His and Hers”.

The family laughed at this. She explained they need separate bins because her husband was always putting the wrong items in the bin.

Such trivial, everyday items like this are a part of a normal life that helps us to just get on with things in this crazy world of ours at present.

This article is meant to represent the Christian Faith giving a Message of Hope.

Having been a member of the Interfaith Movement for over 20 years it is hard to differentiate between the goals and aspirations of different faiths.

We are intertwined and have so much in common. We are all part of the human family and have the same hopes and dreams for our families.

We just have different cultural beliefs and customs.

Prayer to God each day is such a blessing to us all.

Showing kindness and understanding to one another means so much and breaks down barriers.

Sharing food together is one of the best ways of forming friendships.

My greatest testimony is the sure knowledge that all mankind can live again, to be resurrected and to be reunited with all our loved ones again because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

That gives me hope for all of us.

Monday, 11 June, 2018

DANDENONG

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Going for goal in the world game

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

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

His life for others

By Casey Neill

Lee Tarlamis.

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

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

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

“I didn’t do it to get acknowledgement.

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

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

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

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

throughout those two years,” he said.

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

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

Initially that was through the Keysborough Learning Centre.

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

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“I wanted to repay the favour so I was volunteering time with them.”

There he met then-politician Eddie Micallef and became his electorate officer.

“That’s how I got into the politics world,” Mr Tarlamis said.

“That opened up a lot of opportunities to provide assistance to community groups.”

He never intended to run for parliament, but “one thing lead to another which lead to another” and he was a South Eastern Metropolitan Region MP from 2010 to 2014.

“That was such an honour as well, when you consider the fact that very few people get to hold that position and represent that large number of people,” he said.

Mr Tarlamis was a Springvale Benevolent Society volunteer from 2002 to 2012, a Noble Park Community Action Forum member for many years, a founding Springvale Multicultural Men’s Shed committee member, and more.

He’s now a senior advisor to Special Minister of State Gavin Jennings.

The world of politics is not where he thought he’d end up.

The Tarlamis family moved from Oakleigh to Keysborough when he was eight months old.

He went to Wallarano Primary School in Noble Park and to Chandler Secondary College, where Keysborough College’s Acacia campus now stands.

Mr Tarlamis went on to study an associate diploma of business.

“I grew up working with dad in the family businesses,” he said.

“I thought it would be logical that I would go into the business world and maybe into management or something like that.

“I really enjoyed the community stuff.

“Politics became that vehicle to do it.”

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STAR JOURNAL 9

NEWS

Singer reaches a career high note

By Gabriella Payne When Melbourne’s lockdown hit, many musicians relied on the virtual world of YouTube and online streaming to stay afloat, so they could continue to perform and do what they love - and for local singer Mary Ann Van Der Horst, things are paying off.

After being nominated and entered by a fan, Ms Van Der Horst has gone on to win the award for Best International Artist at Switzerland’s St Moritz Music Awards 2020 with her original song ‘Make It Happen’, an achievement that the singer said is a “tremendous honour”.Ms Van Der Horst said that she was “so humbled to have been chosen for this award, knowing that there were many amazing artists” in the running to win.

The singer wrote her winning song three years ago and Ms Van Der Horst said that “the song is just about inspiring people not to give up, even if you fail, even if you lose in your life, you have to move on and keep on going”.

Considering all the adversities Melbournians have faced this year, particularly musicians like Ms Van Der Horst, the song’s message seems only fitting.

Ms Van Der Horst admitted that this year had proven to be a tough time for her as a singer, with the long Covid-19 lockdown prompting her to think of “moving on” and focusing on another career.

“It impacted me so much because all my gigs and concerts were cancelled,” she said.

With her usual income from performing drying up overnight, Ms Van Der Horst said she had to think outside the box and focus on other avenues in order to share her music.

With a solid YouTube following, Ms Van Der Horst decided to broaden her online presence by signing up for a new online live-streaming platform called ‘Sessions’, where she now performs virtually for audiences around the world.

Ms Van Der Horst said that Sessions, a model that has been replicated by gaming platforms like Twitch, allowed viewers to leave monetary tips for artists and make “shout out requests” and more.

The singer said that the global live-streaming platform had created “a way for fans to support artists and help them perform during quarantine” and she was grateful to be doing well as one of the top artists on the site.

More recently, Ms Van Der Horst has been collaborating with fellow musicians and is excited to release some new, original tracks soon.

The pop/rock singer also has some live performances planned now that restrictions have begun to ease.

As part of a group project with the City of Greater Dandenong, Ms Van Der Horst has been invited to perform a Christmas carol at

The reflections light up the night.

Projections light up

By Gabriella Payne A group of talented high school and tertiary students are lighting up Dandenong’s Walker Street windows at the Drum Theatre this month, as their large scale projection works create a spectacle for all to enjoy.

With the help of one of Melbourne’s leading projection artists, Yandell Walton, the five students aged between 1521 years have seen their designs come to life on a grand scale as part of the City of Greater Dandenong Council’s ‘Reflect Project’.

The five young artists - Shruti Randive, Pedro Osorio, Kate Vucak, Jennifer Guingab and Hassan Younus -are all either living or studying within the local community and worked with Ms Walton online to create their artworks.

As restrictions ease and people begin to venture around the area more freely, the council’s Chief Executive Officer John Bennie said that these colourful creations had come at “the perfect time” and hoped they would bring some joy to the local community.

“We are really pleased to see this project come to life, and as we start to enjoy some more freedoms after a long period in lockdown, it provides our community with an interesting showpiece to view when they return to the area,” he said.

He added that the students reflect the multicultural community of Dandenong, and the ‘Reflect Project’ provided “a great way (for the students) to develop their skills with a highly-regarded mentor, and to share their work with the broader community”.

The projected artworks will go live as the sun sets every evening, lasting until midnight and will run until Friday 4 December and locals are encouraged to come down and enjoy the sight.

Mary Ann Van Der Horst with her trophy. 221610 the Drum Theatre later this month, which she believes will be pre-recorded and played on Christmas Day. “I’m really excited and looking forward to it because it’s my first time being a part of it,” she said.If all goes well next year, Ms Van Der Horst

Picture: GARY SISSONS hopes that she can re-start her busy touring schedule, travelling both nationally and internationally if possible.

Her award winning song is available on YouTube and other streaming platforms, search ‘Mary Ann Van Der Horst’ for more.

Christmas carols move online in 2020 starcommunity.com.au CONTACT US Phone: 5945 0666 ADVERTISING Visit starcommunity.com.au/advertise Email advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone 5945 0666 EDITORIAL Email dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au com.au

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REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au

Like many recent events, City of Greater Dandenong’s annual Christmas Carols will be streamed online only.

Due to Covid-19 outdoor restrictions, the 73rd annual event will be broadcast virtually into homes on Friday 11 December.

The lineup includes the return of host Denis Walter and special guests Rhonda Burchmore and X-Factor Australia finalist Mary Ann Van Der Horst.

Winding Road Productions, Greater Dandenong Band, With One Voice Choir and Dandenong Primary School will also perform.

Prior to the event, there will be online activities, performances and workshops such as a gift-wrap making workshop, Jingle Bell disco room and Funky Festive games room.

Greater Dandenong Libraries will stage an online Christmas storytime.

Local restaurants will offer discounts on the night.

The virtual Greater Dandenong Carols are

Tuesday, 1 December, 2020

Denis Walter will host the virtual Carols. 188317 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS on 11 December. Workshops run from 6pm7.30pm, the concert from 7.30pm-8.30pm.

Viewers are required to register free online.

Details: greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/carols

Rhonda Burchmore is among the guest stars at Greater Dandenong Carols dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

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STAR JOURNAL 11

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Exciting times for the Crew

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We support you by identifying work opportunities that reflect your interests and goals,

match your abilities and skills, and which help you get what you want out of life. Your appointed job coach will spend quality time with you to develop your resume, your interview techniques and build your confidence. We will be with you each step of the way on your journey.

The atWork Australia employment engagement team have strong employer relationships within the Monash-Peninsula area that provide many opportunities for our clients.

Our employers are supportive, flexible, inclusive and will work collaboratively to ensure

your success. Once your employment commences, our support will continue to ensure your transition into work is a smooth process.

We will be here for you as you settle into a long term and meaningful position and celebrate your employment milestones with you.

We would love the opportunity to tell you more about the atWork Australia Disability Employment Services journey and would welcome your enquiries. We look forward to working with you soon to assist you in achieving your goals.

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In celebration of International Day of People with Disabilities, The Cassidy Crew are holding an opening event at their Pakenham location. Join them at the new office from 9am on Thursday 3 December for a fun morning of activities, give aways, music, Triple M flags and more!

With the lifting of Covid restrictions, The Cassidy Crew are offering new group programs, support coordination and home care services from their Pakenham office. The new group activities include arts and crafts, coffee and chat, music groups, social and community groups and more.

As a Registered and Accredited Disability Service Provider The Cassidy Crew provides quality, meaningful and flexible supports to people with disabilities, aged care or people just needing assistance. The Cassidy Crew understand that everyone’s disability is unique, and the support we provide is individual to assist your needs and abilities.

For more information on The Cassidy Crew’s services, call 1800 60 10 20, or find them on Facebook.

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Call Gabby today on 0418 145 723 and find your spark!

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INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

Helping kids stay mobile Little Warriors Physio for Kids is a new and growing kids physiotherapy clinic in Beaconsfield.

The clinic provides physiotherapy services to children between the ages of 0-18 years. As the clinic develops they aim to broaden their services to offer intensive physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and group therapy in 2021. Little Warriors has a special interest in animal therapy and intensive therapy.

The clinic is run by physiotherapist Lauren Stent and business manager Jodie Milnes.

Their inspiration is Jodie’s 12 year old daughter, Keira. She has an undiagnosed physical disability and has been completing physiotherapy since she was born. This is how Lauren and Jodie met; Lauren as Keira’s physio at school, now bonded as business partners. This bond birthed their vision and this is why they became Little Warriors together.We all have a dream, to provide our children with access and more opportunities to meet their goals - to inspire, to empower, to persevere - to become Little Warriors.

Little Warriors are movement specialists for babies, infants, children and adolescents.

They have expertise to help children who have a range of conditions that affect their physical development, mobility and their ability to participate in their daily life.

They help children through the use of various methods such as strengthening, exercise, stretching, splinting, intensive therapy, assistive equipment, functional practise, motor learning, play and education.

They treat children of all ages and of all abilities.

They aim to offer quality programs including assessments, maintenance, community access, school visits, home visits, dog therapy, hydrotherapy, and intensive therapy.

They work together with the child’s family/carers and their community to develop individually tailored programs to achieve your child’s goals and dreams.

They aim to make the impossible, possible.

They are the difference.

Little Warriors looks forward to meeting you on your journey. Email info@littlewarriorsphysio.com.au for more or visit 25 Woods Street, Beaconsfield.

Celebrating disabilities with a positive Outlook just plain fun, there’s something for everyone at Outlook.

“We’ve also introduced enhancements to our supported employment services and we have new sustainable long-term work opportunities for school leavers. The new programs have had tremendous uptake and response,” she said.

“We are looking forward to rolling out a range of new and exciting initiatives in 2021 including recreation and leisure activities “, Elaine De Vos, disability services manager at Outlook said.

Outlook invites the community to get in touch and speak to their knowledgeable and friendly team to work out a path that is the perfect fit for a rewarding and inclusive community experience.

Little Warriors are movement specialists for babies, infants, children and adolescents.

GROWING KIDS PHYSIOTHERAPY n

Disability Employment Service

n

Job Guidance

n

Onsite support & training

n

Personalized service

n

Employer Incentives

n

Workplace Modifications

Providing physiotherapy services to children between the ages of 0-18 years

12471749-JW48-20

Outlook celebrates people with disabilities every day.

The work they do is driven by their vision of creating and supporting inclusive communities where people with disability can live, work, play and participate fully in community life. With a strong history and presence of over 50 years, they strive for everyone’s full and equal participation in all aspects of society.

This year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities theme is “Building Back Better: toward a disability-inclusive, accessible and sustainable post Covid-19 World”, and that is exactly what they have been doing at Outlook.

Gabriella Browne, general manager community services said: “During lockdown, the Disability Services team re-designed our centre based and community based programs and now, more than ever, Outlook has a range of programs and activities to suit all abilities. Of course we’ve kept the favourite activities Outlook customers have always enjoyed.

“Whether people with disability in our community are looking for further education, employment, social interactions or

E: info@littlewarriorsphysio.com.au A: 25 Woods Street, Beaconsfield Ph: 0423 763 535

Tel: 1300 385 738 | Website: www.dvjs.com.au

12472825-DL49-20

Registered NDIS Provider

New Location 52 Main Street Pakenham Warragul, Pakenham & Bairnsdale dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

info@custodia.com.au 1800 002 062 custodia.com.au

12472059-DL48-20

A fresh approach to disabilities

12472079-SN48-20

New location – 52 Main Street Pakenham Pakenham – Warragul – Bairnsdale

NDIS Plan Management Tuesday, 1 December, 2020

|

STAR JOURNAL 13

BUSINESS PROFILE

Fresh for summer

By Danielle Kutchel With Covid restrictions lifted and the sun shining brightly, there’s no better time to get out and entertain in the great outdoors.

For all your entertaining needs, Michael’s Michael’s Fresh Food Market IGA in Keysborough has you covered.

An extensive fromagerie will keep the whole family happy no matter their dairy preferences: from local favourites to international legends, the creamiest bries to the sharpest cheddars, Michael’s Fresh Food Market will see your cheese platter stand out.

The deli section offers a variety of foods togo: salads, olives, quiches and roast chicken.

Pack them in your picnic basket or use them as a quick work lunch or family dinner - the hard work is done for you.

It’s all about convenience, according to store manager Mario Dell’Oste, with the store focused on making life easier for busy customers.

No one misses out at Michael’s Fresh Food Market - there is an extensive allergy-friendly range too, from vegan and dairy-free products to vegetarian.

The diverse local community is also catered for across the store, with a range of ingredients like galangal and turmeric for delicious meals at home.

They store lives up to its name, making family favourites fresh for you across the day.

The full-production in-store bakery bakes delicious treats; a juicer pumps out the freshlysqueezed juice we all love; a presser makes nut butter on the spot.

The old-style butcher is a real point of difference, with dry aged beef and wagyu. You can see the beef hanging in its salty cave, ageing to perfection. The incoming Christmas range includes favourites like turkey and ham.

When you buy from the seafood section,

Delicious, seasonal produce for any meal. staff will cut and clean your fish for you - no mess in your kitchen!

And with dining restrictions lifted, hungry customers can eat at the in-store cafe with its industrial kitchen sending out tasty meals.

You’ll find beer on tap too, and comfortable sofas to collapse into for a refreshing drink at the end of the day.

“Whatever your tastes, you will find it here,” says Mario. And if something isn’t stocked, just ask, and they’ll source it for you and get it in.

Find Michael’s Fresh Food Market at 466 Cheltenham Rd, Keysborough.

The fromagerie will cater to any taste.

We know 2020 has been a year like no other and many families are doing it tough, so the Dandenong Journal is giving you the chance to be a star and treat your family this Christmas.

Enter the draw for your chance to win a Woolworths gift card to take your loved ones shopping for scrumptious food and delicious treats to enjoy on the big day … on us.

There are four $500 gift cards up for grabs to help ease the burden this festive season and bring a smile to everyone’s face.

But you have to be in it to win it!

To enter, head to starcommunity. com.au/competitions and register your details.

But be quick as entries close on Friday 18 December at noon.

And, don’t forget to spread the Christmas cheer by inviting your friends to enter too!

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

12465124-CG42-20

Y R E V E E FRE TUESDAY

Win a $500 gift card

14 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 1 December, 2020

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Be a

...

and treat your family this

It’ll be Smiles all round with your chance to

WIN one of FOUR $500 Woolworths gift cards!

Take your family shopping for all those scrumptious foods and delicious treats for your family to enjoy on the big day... on us!

00 $5 $500

$500

$500

But, you must be in it to win it!

Go to starcommunity.com.au/competitions and register your details NOW! Entries close Noon Friday December 18, 2020

Spread the cheer and invite your friends to enter too!

12471377-MB48-19

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 1 December, 2020

|

STAR JOURNAL 15

networkclassifieds.com.au

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See website for details REC 17042 PIC 38148 AU 06212

section of Network Classifieds.

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Palings, Pickets, Colorbond Fences & Gates

• Air Conditioning Get ready • Split Systems for Summer!! • Evaporative Evaporative Cooler & Split Cooling System Service Specials

General Classifieds

V Plasterers

SAXON FENCING

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Close

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V Concrete Products & Services

www.settlementplumbing.com.au LIC. 33033

www.fairbairns.com.au

Lic No. REC 30504

section of Network Classifieds.

• Evaporative cooling / ducted heating service and repairs • Installation and supply of split systems, cooling and heating • Installation of evaporative cooling • Hot water service installs and repairs

9702 4410

We NEVER

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BRIVIS / VULCAN / BONAIRE / BRAEMAR / BREEZE AIR Specialising in air conditioning and heating

PLUMBING, HEATING AND COOLING

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AND STORAGE

9999-8193

24/7 Flood Water Damage Restoration

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• Local, Country & Interstate • Antiques & Pianos a speciality • Cartons & Porta-robes for hire or sale • Full packing available

w w w . S e r v i c e To d a y. c o m . a u

CASEY CARPET CLEANING

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LEIGH HUNTER REMOVALS

Lighting Power Points Phone & Data Hot Water And more...

SERVICING DANDENONG AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

V Carpet Cleaning

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yes we can

Phone Des: 0419 541 719 A.H. 9705 2463

yes we can

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Steve on 0407 704 213

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DBU 6442

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V Electricians

Phone Harry 0412 107 629, 9796 9988

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1167287-PB50-14

V Builders & Building Services

We accept payment by:

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G6112742AA-dc24Jun

AU06014

Support your local tradesman for ALL your concreting needs!

12367795-LB41-17

(include your name, address and phone number)

Phone Andrew on

0408 585 508, 5998 1127

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12445233-NG13-20

NIK Refigeration Service P/L

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F.N. PLASTERING & PAINTING •

20 YEARS EXPERIENCE BUILDING MAINTENANCE • PLASTERING PAINTING • WORK GUARANTEED • FREE QUOTES • PENSIONER DISCOUNT CALL HASHEM 0412 023 331

•

V Plumbing

NEAT PLUMBING SERVICE Lic. Number 27186 ฀Hot Water Specialists ฀Blocked Drains ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

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1172347-DJ07-15

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G6102263AA-dc17Jun

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1216637-LB06-16

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C1085227-JO32-13

Pensioner Discount Eftpos Available

Online: networkclassiďŹ eds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassiďŹ eds.com.au

V Fencing & Gates

1198421-ACM37-15

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12438941-CG04-20

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0417 382 700

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16 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 1 December, 2020

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

General Notices V Tiling

V Tree Lopping/Surgery

Pensioner discounts available Contactless Quotes & Services Available!

12449547-FA21-20

SERVICING DANDENONG AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

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Close

Lic No. 116785

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AFFORDABLE PLUMBING ฀

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Rainbow Dolls

12450404-AM23-20

12355821-ACM25-17

Lic No. 116785

Real Estate section of Network Classifieds.

★★Replace CleaningRoofs/Gutters/Downpipes Roofs/Gutters/Downpipes ReplaceBroken BrokenTiles Tiles ★★Cleaning ★ Re-Bedding & Pointing ★ Roof Spraying (3 coats acrylic paint) & Pointing ★★Roof ★★10Re-Bedding Year Guarantee FreeSpraying Quote (3 coats acrylic paint) For a free★quote Free phone Quote Carlos 10% Spring Discount ★ 10 Year Guarantee 10% discount

Chris:9700 0410 584 435 Mob: • Carlos:0414 0414 393 393 700 Ph: 7098 700

One call, We do it all!

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Call now for a FREE quote: 0405 817 173 V Rubbish Removal

SUPER SERVICE BIN HIRE 2 CUBIC METRE BINS FROM $180 BIN SIZES 2-3-4-5 AND 6 CUBIC METRES UNWANTED CARS REMOVED FREE FAST FRIENDLY AND EFFICIENT SERVICE

9793 9970 - 0419 514 977

V Public Notices and Event

The Adass Israel Cemetery Trust is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified members of the community who would be interested in becoming honorary trust members. Women and those from a diverse background are actively encouraged to seek appointment to ensure that the trust’s membership accurately reflects the composition of the community it serves.

Cemetery trust members are appointed by the Governor in Council for a term of up to five years and are responsible to the Minister for Health for the proper and efficient management of the public cemeteries under the control of the trust, including the provision of future cemeteries services and the preservation of local history.

Being appointed to a cemetery trust provides successful applicants with a unique opportunity to develop their competencies as a board member. In addition, the Department of Health and Human Services provides free governance training to all trust members.

Current and previous cemetery trust members may apply for reappointment as part of a competitive selection process.

More information about the role of cemetery trust members is available at: https://www2. health.vic.gov.au/public-health/cemeteries-andcrematoria/cemetery-trust-appointments/classb-cemetery-trust-appointments To register your interest please contact the Chairperson of the Adass Israel Cemetery Trust as follows within two weeks of the date of this advertisement: m. 0418 564 827 The Victorian Government is committed to ensuring that government boards and committees reflect the rich diversity of the Victorian community. Applications are welcome from people of all ages, genders and sexual orientations, people with disability, Aboriginal Victorians and Victorians from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Find your Local Professionals in our

Trades & Services section of Network Classifieds.

SAME DAY SERVICE HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS

DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS

0409 888 228

12469374-CG46-20

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

V For Sale DOUBLE BED Base and mattress ensemble, very clean, good quality. $100.

Can arrange delivery if necessary. Phone 0412 282 087.

ADASS ISRAEL CEMETERY TRUST

V Television/Video/Audio

ANTENNA MAN

Open 7 days 48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B

General Notices

Call Now 0417 128 536

$100/ 30mins

9703 1530

฀

10% discount on hot water service installations if you mention this ad.

12386255-DJ19-18

V Adult Services

www.windows1.net.au

฀ ฀

Roof Restoration Specialists

V Windows

Member HIA and MBA

Must have strong customer service skills and be able to handle numerous telephone orders as well as completing other tasks.

The applicant must be flexible with days and hours.

General Classifieds

Fully Insured

Window Replacement Service Timber or Aluminium Windows Free Measure and quote

Experienced Cashier Diacos Discount Nursery is seeking an Experienced Cashier.

Please email resume to: lynbrook@diacos.com.au

1235322622-PB22-17

SEWER BLOCKAGES – MACHINE CLEANED฀

฀

V Positions Vacant

HANDY-PERSON/GARDENER

V Massage Therapists ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer non-sexual services.

V Pets & Services

Keysborough Gardens Primary School Two days per week to commence late January 2021 Details: https://keysboroughgardensps.vic.edu.au To apply send CV to: philip.anthony@education.vic.gov.au By 4pm Wednesday 2nd December

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number.

It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice.

For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

Are you looking for a new adventure in 2021?

Join Jayco, based out of our manufacturing plant in Dandenong South.

V Garage Sales

We are currently looking for production and assembly staff, with various roles available including:

PLACE YOUR

Furniture and General Assembly - $26 per hour • Using hand and power tools to build bed bases, cupboards, kitchens, and cabinets as well as other components on our recreational vehicles.

• Read plans and drawings.

12400498-CG38-18

฀

฀

1158529-PB42-14

฀ ฀

Please note the position description, role and application requirements, particularly in relation to the Key Selection Criteria response. 12473141-DV49-20

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2018 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Should you require further information or wish to comment, please contact Chan Chen at Axicom, 02 9495 9000, community@axicom.com.au or Level 1, 110 Pacific Highway, St Leonards NSW 2065 by Tuesday 15 December 2020. Further information may also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3171003.

Phone Geoff 0418 340 825

1 HOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBING ฀ ฀ ฀

12472663-HL49-20

C695870-JM11-9

• New Houses • Factories • Blockages/Machine and Camera • Same Day Hot Water Services • Domestic and Commercial Maintenance • 3.5 Ton & 12 Ton Excavator • Bobcat and Tipper

C316291-KK18-5

Contact us 1300 301 678 ÜÜÜ°ÌÀii >Ã °V °>Õ

FOUNTAIN GATE PLUMBING Lic 24754

Applications are to be submitted through the Dept of Education Recruitment Online website: www.education.vic.gov.au/about/careers/pages/job.aspx no later than 9th December 2020.

2. Optus regards the proposed installations as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”), based on the description above

1238899-CG33-16

www.ServiceToday.com.au

Further information can be obtained by emailing: thomas.mitchell.ps@education.vic.gov.au attention to Tracey Etherington, Business Manager.

1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 4G/5G equipment and associated works as follows: r Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas, 0.59m long, on an existing headframe r Installation of new ancillary equipment, including fifteen (15) Remote Radio Units, cabling and antenna mounts r Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within the equipment shelter, including removal of redundant equipment and replacement of Remote Radio Units

Wiring and Pre-plumbing - $26 per hour • Rough-in and pre-plumbing of vans.

• Read plans and drawings.

• Some experience in either electrical or plumbing is required.

Welders - $30 per hour • The successful applicant will have at least 1-year experience in MIG welding.

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Real Estate V Accommodation ROOMS AVAILABLE, Single rooms. Gents only. 48 Hammond Road/45 Hemmings Street, Dandenong.

Ph John 0417 336 906.

Professional Services FR3375_A 12472712-DL49-20

12451042-LB24-20

Call 0432 550 066 or 8707 5522

yes we can

9.00am - 3.30pm - Monday to Friday, school days only.

2 year employment contract commencing 27 January 2021 at Thomas Mitchell Primary School, Endeavour Hills.

M0085 Springvale South: 6 Newcomen Road, Springvale VIC 3171 (RFNSA 3171003)

Free Quotes

Emergency Plumbing Hot Water Blocked Drains Taps and Toilets Water Leaks And more...

9998-2905

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT SPRINGVALE WITH 5G

12471843-NG48-20

FRIENDLY SERVICE!

V Wanted

If you believe you have what it takes to build a successful career at Jayco, email your resume, along with a cover letter to: recruitment@jayco.com.au

FACTORY WANTED URGENTLY

To buy or rent.

Pakenham District 4,000 - 8,000 m2

Ph: 0415 476 619

V To Let

CARAVAN PARK ACCOMMODATION PERMANENT

★ NO BOND ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

NO LEASE ★

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

Ph 9546 9587 Office Hours Mon-Sat 8am-6pm.

Sunday 10am-4pm 870 Princes Highway, Springvale

The benefits of these positions include: � Full time positions available � Permanent employment � Monthly paid Rostered Day Off � Dandenong South Location � Extensive training is provided, as well as development opportunities

12473217-SN49-20

For our FAST

DIV 1 PRIMARY SCHOOL NURSE

12423634-SN31-19

All Bathroom Renovations • Bathrooms • Toilets • Kitchens • Decks • Water proofing • Walls and Floors

12470678-NG47-20

ECONOMY TILING

Call Us Today...

G5855585AA-dc11Mar

Dandenong Plumbers g All Pricinnt Up-Fro

V Medical/Nursing

V Public Notices and Event C1072232-JJ4-13

V Plumbing

Employment

12470666-SG47-20

Trades & Services

V Professional

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

Motoring Caravan & Cabin Park

section of Network Classifieds.

Tuesday, 1 December, 2020

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STAR JOURNAL 17

SPORT

Rebels roll

By Lance Jenkinson

It was a dream come true for Luckie Karabitsakos, winning the Melbourne Cup with Hard Style Rico, which he also bred and owns.

Picture: COURTESY OF SANDOWN GREYHOUNDS

A life-changing triumph for Luckie

By Gerard Guthrie A greyhound racing dream came true for Luckie Karabitsakos when his brilliant sprinter Hard Style Rico unforgettably smashed the Sandown Park 515-metre track record in the Group 1 TAB Melbourne Cup Final on Friday night.

It was a fifth appearance in a Group 1 event for Hard Style Rico, which Pearcedale-based Karabitsakos also bred and owns, with his best previous finish coming when runner-up to Simon Told Helen in the Maturity Classic.

While Karabitsakos had to bide his time in the quest for Group 1 glory, it was undoubtedly worth the wait.

Hard Style Rico overcame box five against an all-star field in a sensational all-the-way victory, clocking 28.909 seconds, eclipsing Hooked On Scotch’s previous course record of 28.939 seconds established in the 2019 Melbourne Cup heats.

“What an experience. I’m speechless,” said an ecstatic Karabitsakos.

“This is the greatest race to be in, and to have the dog win it and to win it in track record time speaks for itself.”

Hard Style Rico won his Cup heat in a blistering 29.17s, being shaded for qualifying honours by Tiggerlong Tonk’s 29.16s performance.

Despite his awkward draw, Hard Style Rico was well-supported, starting on the third line of betting at $5.70, behind $2.40 favourite Simon Told Helen and Western Australian pinup Tommy Shelby at $5.20.

Karabitsakos was celebrating a long way from home after Hard Style Rico flew out to assume control, running 4.99s early.

He was never going to be beaten from that point, defeating a gallant Simon Told Helen by five-and-a-half lengths, with Tommy Shelby running third.

“What a great feeling,” said Karabitsakos.

“Emotions did run wild. I felt like I was fighting Mike Tyson and I was winning!

“As soon as he found the front - no disrespect to the other dogs in the field, they’re all

great dogs - but as soon as he found the front I know how good he is and they weren’t catching him.”

Hard Style Rico, a homebred son of Bella Infrared, has now won 21 of his 40 starts, having also claimed the Group 2 Shepparton Cup, while the massive $435,000 winner’s purse saw his earnings skyrocket to $632,530.

It was the second time this month that Hard Style Rico has upstaged Simon Told Helen, having also claimed the Australian Greyhound of the Year’s scalp in the Group 3 Silver Bullet at The Meadows, making a point after being left out of the Group 1 Topgun field.

The Karabitsakos family are becoming wellattuned to Group 1 success at Sandown, with Luckie’s brother Anthony guiding Black Mumbo to victory in the 2017 Harrison-Dawson.

It’s very much a family affair, with Hard Style Rico’s mother, Bella Rico, being a litter sister to Black Mumbo.

This article first appeared on the Greyhound Racing Victoria website.

Wall rounds out all-star ownership group

By Lance Jenkinson If South East Melbourne Phoenix sent its ownership group out to compete on court in the National Basketball League, it would be one hell of a team.

The latest addition to the stable of star owners is current Washington Wizards point guard John Wall.

Wall, a former first overall draft pick and five-time All Star, was the latest to believe in what the Phoenix is cooking in the NBL. His financial investment is both an endorsement of the direction Australian basketball is taking and a backing of a young Phoenix club that has big aspirations in the league.

Phoenix owner Romie Chaudhari is thrilled to have Wall on board.

“It’s a privilege to have John join the Phoenix ownership group,” he said.

“I had the chance to spend some time with him and he is wonderful to work with.

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“I am proud to have him as part of our ownership group.

“I look forward to watching John grow as an entrepreneur and to seeing him have an extremely successful upcoming NBA season.

“He’s worked very hard getting himself ready and I can’t wait to watch him play again.”

So, let’s check out a potential starting five of South East Melbourne Phoenix owners.

You can lock in Wall at point guard - one of the best players in the world when fit.

There will be an Aussie flavour at shooting guard with Melbourne’s own Dante Exum, a current NBA player with Cleveland Cavaliers, rounding out a jaw dropping back court.

Josh Childress, a former first round pick of the Atlanta Hawks and an NBL scoring champion with the Sydney Kings, would slot into small forward.

The front court would reek of toughness, with NBA journeyman Al Harrington holding

Tuesday, 1 December, 2020

down the power forward position, and the star of Memphis Grizzlies’ grit and grind, two-time All Star Zach Randolph inserted at centre.

Even though three of the starting five have retired, this team would certainly be a tough nut to crack in the NBL. While there is only one thing on Wall’s mind - getting back to playing for the Wizards after a long injury layoff - it is exciting that the 30-year-old has looked to Australia and the Phoenix to begin his entrepreneurship.

“I’m so excited to be coming onboard with the Phoenix,” Wall said.

“I love the vision that Romie and [Phoenix CEO] Tommy [Greer] have shared with me and am really impressed with what they’ve been able to create over the first season.

“I know there is plenty I can contribute to the growth of the franchise and I’m especially looking forward to getting down to South East Melbourne and meeting the team and the fans when travel restrictions are lifted.”

Two assignments of a vastly different nature across four days will confront the Mulgrave Rebels on their return to the diamond in the Victorian Summer Baseball League Division 2.

The Rebels will open the season in a clash with Ormond Glenhuntly, a newly promoted side from Division 3, at Clow Street on Thursday evening, then follow up with a tough trip to the Newport Rams on Sunday, a team that came down from the top-flight Division 1.

Rebels coach David Clarkson believes the first two games could offer a solid gauge of where his team sits in the pecking order.

“We’re meeting a team that’s come up from Division 3 in the first game and a team who’s come down from Division 1 in the second, so if we can give it a good hard shot, it will sort of show where we are at,” he said.

Young gun Jay Arthur is locked in to start on the mound on opening day against Ormond Glenhuntly.

The starting role against Newport is still up for grabs with Liam Richardson and Ryan Phillips battling it out.

“I’m still undecided on the Sunday game,” Clarkson said.

“I think Liam deserves a chance to start after he threw pretty good on Wednesday night [in a practice match].”

Like everyone in sport these days, Mulgrave players are champing at the bit for regular season baseball to return.

A delayed start to the season due to Covid-19 has been frustrating, but it has helped eliminate the virus in the state and re-start life as a Covid normal society.

Baseball is still a bit skewed from the norm, with protocols being trialled for players and spectators in practice matches that will be rolled out for the start of the season.

“For our practice match, we had two teams, our firsts and seconds versus their [Malvern Braves] firsts and seconds,” Clarkson said.

“The players who weren’t playing one half of the game had to get out of the dugout.

“We weren’t allowed to shake hands afterwards with the Covid policy.

“I reckon there were a good 50 people there watching and people were being told to separate because of the 1.5-metre distancing.”

It is a small price to pay for the return of baseball.

Clarkson only needs to see the excitement on the faces of his players at training and the mood on social media to know that it’s all worthwhile.

“Everyone can smell the start of the season and we’re really looking forward to it,” he said.

“Everyone blew out the cobwebs [against Malvern] on Wednesday and there were some good signs that I saw.

“You could tell by the banter on social media that everyone is very keen for the season to start on Thursday.”

One player all Mulgrave connections are keen to see in action is veteran Paul Rutgers.

The third baseman will return home to where it all began after a decorated career in higher grades.

“He’s the crafty old veteran who started at Mulgrave many years ago,” Clarkson said.

“He signed professionally with the Minnesota Twins, played with numerous Division 1 clubs and coached Sandringham for the last two years in Division 1.

“He’s coming back to where it’s all started.

“He’ll be a big inclusion at third base, a guy that’s got a very good baseball brain that I can rely on to help out the other infielders while I’m sitting in the dugout.” dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Bloods impress yet again

By Nick Creely Springvale South has sent a statement to the rest of the competition with a dominant victory against Narre South in the second round of the Dandenong District Cricket Association’s Turf 1 competition on Saturday.

Against a fellow flag fancy, the Bloods were simply far too good - clinical with the ball and bat from the outset.

The Lions won the toss, electing to bat as they looked to put behind them the disappointment of their opening round defeat to Berwick.

But once again, the Lions struggled with a steady flow of wickets falling throughout, with left-arm tweakers Akshat Buch (4/21) and Jarryd Straker (3/26) combining for seven wickets as the visitors tumbled out for just 108.

It’s been a particularly impressive start to the season for Buch, the ex-Dandenong spinner, with six wickets across the first two rounds of the season.

Lions star Kaushalya Weeraratne was strong with the bat to compile 38 from 57 balls but struggled to form partnerships with the middle-order breaking down.

Ryan Quirk (31) and skipper Nathan King managed to get off to a brisk start in the chase, compiling 42 runs for the first wicket as the Bloods strolled away with a seven-wicket win to move to a 2-0 start to the season.

Jack Sketcher (24 not out) once again found some runs in what has been a strong start to the season from an individual perspective.

Reedy Reserve played host to yet more runs from the great Matthew Chasemore, with the reigning premier Berwick once again looking ominous in its victory against HSD. After winning the toss and batting, the Cobras looked to be in a strong position, with top-order pair Udara Hettige (41) and Nishita Weerakoon (48) navigating the star-studded Bears’ pace attack nicely.

But the Bears slowly clawed back, eventually wearing the home side down and bowling them out for 140, with leggie Ruwantha Kellepotha (3/42) once again crucial, while Cory Bevan (3/10) snared some important wickets as he usually does.

While dangerous opener Jordan Cleland was prized out early for 15, it mattered little, with skipper Chasemore piling on an unbeaten 77, slamming four sixes and eight fours as the reigning premier moved to 2-0.

Chasemore - who scored 42 not out in the opening round - shows no signs of slowing

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Chandima Abeykoon on the attack for HSD. 222646 down his incredible appetite for runs, with the champ already scoring over 2000 runs for the club in just his fourth season.

The impressive Brodie Emmett also backed up his 59 from round one with another entertaining 43 to help guide his side home.

Down at Lois Twohig Reserve, a spectacular performance from Hallam Kalora Park seamer Will Whyte saw the Hawks dominate North Dandenong and move to 2-0.

The Hawks looked in trouble at one point after being sent in to bat, with the Maroons off the back of some solid bowling - restricting the visitors to 5/57, which included the vital scalps of Leigh Booth and skipper Jordan Hammond.

But recruit Matt Cox (65) changed the game, and in typically aggressive fashion turned the corner for his side.

Combining with Ben Hillard (36 not out) for a vital 75-run stand, the Hawks posted 9/157 with Cox whacking seven fours and a six in his impressive knock.

Nimesh Kariyawasam (3/34) was outstand-

ing with the ball for the Maroons.

But it was a performance to remember from Whyte with the ball for the Hawks, with the Maroons rolled for just 74 despite a blistering start.

The impressive Whyte snared an incredible 6/11 from 9.3 overs, tearing apart the Maroons with a searing spell that saw the Maroons last just 19.3 overs.

With Leigh Booth (2/30) also bowling well, Whyte was virtually unplayable, with the middle-order combining for a total of 10 runs.

It’s not the first time the Hawk star has claimed five or more wickets in an innings at Turf 1 level, with Whyte almost topping his Turf 1 best of 7/37.

Buckley Ridges were another side to claim victory against St Mary’s at Carroll Reserve in what proved to be a tricky day of batting for both sides.

After being sent in by the Bucks, the Saints clawed its way to 9/131 from its 45 overs, with Michael ‘Slick’ Davies (2/33) excellent with the ball and in particular early, and without cham-

pion spinner Wes Nicholas, who pulled out of the game late with injury, the visitors still had plenty of options to do the damage.

The Saints were not helped by three runouts, including a brilliant throw from the boundary line from Susa Pradeep that struck the stumps side-on.

While the Bucks didn’t quite have it their own way with the bat in reply, a typically defiant knock from skipper Jayson Hobbs (66 not out) at the top ensured the visitors would get the runs in 36 overs with just the loss of three wickets.

Hobbs - who has been well known as one of the most determined and gritty batsman in the DDCA - faced 103 balls in his vital knock - and was well assisted by Davies (19 not out) who helped steer the visitors home.

After two rounds of the home-and-away season, Berwick, Springvale South, Hallam Kalora Park and Buckley Ridges have won both of their games as the Turf 1 ladder begins to take some early shape this season.

Associations come together to form girls competition

By Nick Creely The West Gippsland Cricket Association and Dandenong District Cricket Association will combine to form an Under 17 girls competition this season, further strengthening female cricket in the region.

The season - which will kick off on Monday. 7 December or Tuesday. 8 December will see DDCA clubs Berwick, Silverton and Narre Warren South and WGCA clubs Nyora, Carlisle Park and Officer do battle in what is certain to be an exciting competition.

WGCA female cricket coordinator Rob Hansen told the Journal that the competition will provide another crucial pathway for female cricket in the region.

“It’s on the basis of us developing a pathway for female cricket,” he said.

“We’re into our fourth year of running a girls comp but that started as a stage one for young girls between 10 and 14 years old.

“And we realised once they get to 14 we’re aware there is a discrepancy with the experience and all that sort of stuff, so having an open age comp doesn’t necessarily work very well.

“So the logical thing is to develop a pathway where the next age group can come through, and that’s our stage two.

“It’s probably going to be similar to under 12 boys, where the rules are a bit more competitive and played with a hard ball.”

Hansen said that joining forces with dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

The DDCA and WGCA will combine to form an under-17 girls competition this season. 205548 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS the DDCA made logical sense as it looks to continue its rapid growth.

“We’ve now got three clubs that have a team in West Gippy, and Officer is on the verge of having two teams, but we’ve struggled to get a fourth team so we’ve had con-

versations with the DDCA,” he said.

“So it’s not logical to try to go alone at this point in time, so we’ll work together so we’ve got a viable competition, and this may be in the short-term and we split at some point and go at it alone.

“But, it’s taking off, just like girls’ footy, so it’s great.”

DDCA vice president Steven Richards said it was the right decision to make to help grow female cricket further in its competition, with both associations in similar positions in terms of female participation and teams.

“Emma Gallagher, our regional manager, hinted that they were in the same boat and some discussions should happen,” he said. “(And) it makes sense to do the merger if we went alone, we would have had three teams, and that’s just not beneficial.

“So six teams makes sense, we play against different strength sides, and they have some strong sides entered.”

With the fixture expected to be released shortly, with confirmation of teams and venues still being worked through, Richards said everything was all but sorted in terms of season structure.

“We’re looking at around a nine to 10week season, and having a final four after the home and away season, that seems to be the best thing, but we want to try and be as flexible as possible” he said.

“We’re also looking at having a couple of people from each association getting involved in the competition sub-committee, and we’re looking to get more female involvement at committee level.”

Tuesday, 1 December, 2020

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STAR JOURNAL 19

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Tuesday, 1 December, 2020

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