Dandenong Star Journal - 23rd February 2021

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Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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Vaccine on the way

Long wait for degree

Circular battery launch

It’s all in the family

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Closure on the menu Thi Lanh Trang closed her Mekong Restaurant in Springvale for the recent five-day Covid lockdown. Acquiring the business in July, Ms Trang is ineligible for JobKeeper and the latest setback has brought her to the brink.

For more, turn to page 8. 228821 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Solar farm ‘snub’ A VCAT decision has struck a blow for a proposed solar farm on Green Wedge land in Springvale South - despite the 47-hectare site being “promised” for parkland.

More than 160 objectors opposed the 68,000-solar panel project on the former landfill site at 66-88 and 98-100 Clarke Road.

“There hasn’t been community engagement, but above all else, this land was promised to us after so many years of landfill, smells, noise,” resident Barbara Beciric said.

“I feel like we are forgotten.”

The site is part of the Chain of Parks concept plan - a span of open space that runs between the cities of Kingston and Greater Dandenong.

In the meantime, the neighbourhood’s other park has been closed for landfill remediation works for about six months, Ms Beciric says.

“Because this area may not be a high socioeconomic area, we have to put up with these things.

“It’s not fair.”

Ms Beciric is worried how the solar farm will

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manage the risk of bushfire as well as landfill gases from below and the “Dingley side of the previous landfill”.

“Homes are so close to it, there’s a nursing home, a Cambodian community’s temple - I’m worried about the direct impact of it.”

On 16 February, VCAT senior member Philip Martin struck out a ‘section 173’ agreement’s clause ensuring the “after-use” of the land for “recreation purposes”.

The clause stated the after-use should be in accordance with the “Heatherton-Dingley Chain of Parks Concept Plan 1988”.

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But Mr Martin said the concept plan was “now missing” and its contents were subject to “a real extent of speculation”.

“While Council might join Cher and Aqua (from the movie Sliding Doors) in wishing that it could ‘Turn back time’, the applicant could rebut by quoting The Rolling Stones that ‘You can’t always get what you want’.“ Mr Martin interpreted that the clause “simply imposes certain remediation obligations on the owner”.

Continued page 3

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NEWS

Walking a creative line

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Classical dancer Samrakshana Ram is looking forward to the return of live performance in the Earth Matters walking tour.

After nearly a year in ZOOM hibernation, there’s nothing like performing in front of a live audience.

Even face-to-face rehearsals have been refreshing for Dandenong singer-dancer Samrakshana Ram - who is taking part in the Earth Matters walking tour in Dandenong this month.

“To sit with other artists and work with them - and to not be on social media or ZOOM as we’ve lately adapted to - it was very refreshing.

“Until you’re there, you don’t realise how much you have missed it.”

Audiences also feeding on a menu of online concerts during Covid have a “crazy” pent-up hunger for live events, she says.

In that way, the lockdown showed the importance of the arts, she says.

Earth Matters is one of the main events of the South Asian-themed 2021 Sangam Festival.

Ms Ram says the audience can expect an “immersive” and “interesting contrast” of traditional Indian and Bollywood performance Its audiences interact with a series of performances at Harmony Square, Drum Theatre and outside Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre.

Ms Ram performs at The Drum concert leg in A Raga Immersion.

She will glean from her Carnatic (South Indian) dance knowledge, improvising with other dancers and classic musicians to a spokenword tale.

“It was great to let and go and be lost in those sounds - the liberty to just jam,” she said of the live rehearsal process.

“That’s the biggest aspect of much that I’ve

missed - to jam and to see where the creative juices flow.”

Ms Ram learnt traditional dance and singing at the age of six. Her parents - who’d migrated from India - were determined to give her opportunities that they didn’t have.

“The arts were what kept them connected to their homeland.”

Those lessons have bloomed 20 years later, allowed her to work with musicians and groups of varied genres and nationalities.

Earth Matters also moves onto Harmony Square for interactive sessions with a movement and yoga artist and a Bollywood dance group. The finale of eight solo dances is staged in the Walker Street Gallery car park.

Light vegetarian refreshments will be served on the tour.

In its third year, the Sangam Festival is a collaboration of celebrated and emerging artists from India and Melbourne.

Dandenong’s multicultural diversity made it a natural venue for the festival, Ms Ram says.

“The festival recognises we’re a generation living in a country with so much exposure to multiculturalism.”

The two-hour Earth Matters tour starts at 6pm on Saturday 27 February.

Limited spots are available for this outdoor theatre experience.

Tickets start at $15 for concession or Drum Members, or $50 for a family of two adults and two children.

Bookings: Drum Theatre Box Office on 8571 1666 or https://drum.greaterdandenong.vic. gov.au/drum/events/sangam-dandenongearth-matters-walking-experience

BECAUSE OF OUR EFFORTS EASED RESTRICTIONS ARE NOW IN PLACE You can leave home for any reason, and the following changes are in place:

Visitors to your home limited to 5 people a day.

Outdoor gatherings are limited to 20 people.

Fitted face masks required indoors, and outdoors where you can’t keep 1.5m apart.

There are limits on visiting hospital and care facilities.

Keep your hands and surfaces clean.

Any symptoms? Get tested and stay home.

For more information go to CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, Melbourne

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Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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NEWS

IN BRIEF Speeding drug driver’s getaway goes wrong

14 hoons arrested

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Fourteen men have been arrested in two days of anti-hoon police raids across Melbourne suburbs such as Springvale, Dandenong North, Officer and Hampton Park.

Over two days, Victoria Police officers raided 14 properties as well as seizing 12 cars of a total value of more than $370,000 including a $100,000-plus 2015 Mercedes B CTS Roadster.

The other seized cars were a 2011 Ford Falcon G6E sedan, 2016 Holden Commodore SS sedan, 1996 Ford Falcon XR6 sedan, 1994 Ford Falcon XR8 sedan, 1989 Nissan Skyline R31 sedan, 1995 Nissan 180 SX coupe, 1995 Holden Commodore S sedan, 2011 Mercedes C63 sedan, 1999 Nissan Stagea wagon, 1992 Holden Commodore Wagon and 2010 Ford XR6 sedan.

The affluence of some of the drivers - aged 18 to 45 years - with “well maintained, expensive” vehicles might surprise the community, , Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Russell Barrett said.

“They have the capacity to entertain themselves but they choose to entertain themselves by putting the community at risk.”

If convicted, several of the drivers could expect their cars to be forfeited and crushed About 20 forfeited cars are crushed in Victoria each week.

The arrested men, aged 18 to 45 years, face “serious criminal” charges carrying up to six years’ jail.

Such as conduct endangering a person, possess prohibited weapons, possess controlled weapon, possess drug of dependence, possess imitation firearm, attempted criminal damage and behave in a riotous manner.

“The penalties for hooning are significant and our message to anyone out there is simple - we will find you, arrest you, put you be-

A 2015 Mercedes B CTS Roadster seized during Operation Achilles raids. fore the courts and seize your car.

“We have no tolerance for illegal hoon activity and remain committed to disrupting and prosecuting anyone involved in this type of dangerous behaviour.”

The raids were in relation to an alleged illegal hoon meet in which the crowd turned on police at Marine Parade, St Kilda on 21 January.

Witnesses told police they feared for people’s lives as burnouts and reckless driving abounded, Asst Comm Barrett said.

Investigators trawled through CCTV to help identify alleged culprits. More related arrests are expected, Asst Comm Barrett said.

His message to hoons was blunt: “We’ll identify you, we’ll locate you, we’ll arrest you and your vehicle will be seized.”

Police have launched a statewide Operation Achilles in response to a rising number of illegal hoon meets and “intentional high risk driving” events in recent months.

Asst Comm Barrett said hoon activity was “dangerous and not simply a bit of harmless fun”.

“We’ve seen these kinds of behaviours result in both death and serious injury.

“Operation Achilles will target those who blatantly disregard the law and as a result, put

the safety of the entire community at risk.

“We know this type of behaviour is incredibly frustrating for local residents and police are committed to working closely with community groups to address their concerns.”

As part of Operation Achilles, police investigators will collaborate across the state, sharing intelligence to reduce and disrupt hoon activity and identify its organisers.

In the past, hoons would move out of a region with heavy police activity into another.

The aim was to ensure everywhere in Victoria would be too “hot” for hoons to gather, Asst Comm Barrett said.

Proactive police patrols will attend identified hoon hotspots and monitor known groups and persons of interest.

The aim would be to investigate every meet, and to make arrests that night, Asst Comm Barrett said.

Police will also approach councils, the State Government and businesses for “infrastructure enhancements” to deter hoons in key hot spots.

They will also examine possible “regulatory” changes.

To report any dangerous driving or hoon activity, call the local police station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

A speeding driver under the influence of drugs put up a fight this morning before being forcibly removed from his vehicle and taken off the roads by police, after the Airwing Unit spotted the vehicle breaking multiple road rules from the sky.

Early in the morning on Wednesday 17 February, officers from the Airwing Unit detected the black BMW allegedly driving at speeds of more than 150k/ph along the Westernport Freeway.

From above, officers in the Airwing Unit also managed to identify that the vehicle in question was driving with false registration plates.

After coming to a stop in Portlink Drive, Dandenong, covert officers from the Frontline Tactical Unit approached the culprit, placing tyre deflation devices under the wheels of the vehicle.

Both the Frontline Tactical Unit and the K9 Unit were present at the scene, and officers from both units asked the male driver to exit his vehicle - but it seems he had other ideas.

Instead of stepping out of the car, the driver allegedly locked his doors and attempted to start the vehicle again.

Officers at the scene then used a gap in the vehicle’s window to spray pepper spray at the man, but allegedly he still refused to get out of the car.

At this point the police smashed the driver’s front window, in order to remove the man from his vehicle.

On inspection, police discovered a “number of drugs” inside the vehicle and the driver, a 34-year-old Ardeer man, admitted to using methylamphetamine before driving.

Police interviewed the male driver for a number of offences and he is set to face court at a later date.

The vehicle the man was caught in was also impounded by police for 30 days.

Solar ‘snub’ amid open space concerns From page 1 He said Greater Dandenong Council “over-reached“ in arguing the site could only be used for recreation purposes for “some indefinite period”.

“There would be a legitimate argument that from the owner’s perspective, this is in practice ‘sterilising’ the long term use of that private land.”

The ruling will be considered as part of a VCAT appeal on the solar farm proposal on 5 May. The proponent Progress Solar appealed to VCAT after Greater Dandenong Council failed to decide on a permit within the statutory timeframe.

Greater Dandenong Council city planning director Jody Bosman said the council didn’t make a decision because “a decision was first required on the status of the Section 173 agreement to determine if the proposed solar farm complied with this agreement or not”.

The site of the proposed solar farm at Clarke Road, Springvale South.

The council would decide whether to oppose the solar farm at the VCAT appeal “as soon as possible“.

Defenders of the South East Green Wedge committee member Matthew Kirwan said it was “deeply disappointing” that VCAT ignored the 1988 concept plan earmarking a “significant part” of the site for public recreation.

The outcome potentially “deprived Springvale South residents of an important connecting section of parkland to the broader Kingston chain of parks”.

“I hope the council explores whether there are grounds for challenging this in the Supreme Court.”

The former Greater Dandenong councillor said ignoring the Green Wedge and the Chain of Parks vision “seems the fashion at the moment” - a reference to the recently proposed Suburban Rail Loop railyard in Heatherton.

The $38 million project is said to be capable of powering 10,000 average homes, according to proponent Progress Solar.

The man’s vehicle was caught displaying false registration plates and was impounded for 30 days.

Picture: EYEWATCH CASEY POLICE

Ram-raiders hit supermarket Burglars have stolen cigarettes during a ramraid of a supermarket on Police Road, Mulgrave.

Police were called to the supermarket about 2.15am on Wednesday 17 February.

The burglars used a vehicle to smash the store’s window, police say.

No one was in the store at the time.

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

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Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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STAR JOURNAL 3

NEWS

Scout makes it to the top

By Danielle Kutchel Committing to more than 300 hours of community service at the age of 15 is no mean feat - but for Tahlia Morgan, a Rover with 2nd Springvale Scouts, it was par for the course on her way to achieve the Queen’s Scout award.

The Queen’s Scout award is the highest honour a scout can achieve, but it’s a lot of work. Fortunately, it can be spread over three years, and Tahlia was able to rise to the challenge despite the barriers of VCE and Covid.

The Queen’s Scout involves the completion of several scouting badges. The person striving for the award is responsible for setting their own goals to complete the badges, based on a standardised logbook of suggestions, and an assessor marks the person’s achievements towards these badges Every Queen’s Scout’s pathway is different: Tahlia, now 18, focused on volunteering over her three year program.

She spent time volunteering with the Starlight Foundation as well as the younger members at 2nd Springvale Scouts.

She said her pathway to the award was also “very social - I used every chance I could to make new friends, experience new things and do new stuff.”

Much of this involved the famous scout camps, with Tahlia completing camps on the environment, where she learned how to contribute to a healthier world; a leadership camp which taught different ways to be a leader; and a New Zealand camp where she made firm friendships with scouts from around the globe.

Meeting those who were on a similar path to her was a highlight, she said.

The time she spent as a volunteer has even shaped her future career aspirations.

Much of her volunteering work was with kids with disabilities, and Tahlia will soon start a university course in teaching students with

Tahlia cuts the cake at the award presentation.

Tahlia Morgan, front, celebrates receiving her award. disabilities - a choice she made as a result of her Queen’s Scout work.

She made a special effort to complete the majority of the program before her year 12, to give her time to focus on her studies. That proved wise once Covid hit too.

Queen’s Scouts are required to document all of their work and supply reports and photos of what they’ve completed.

The paperwork to accompany the practi-

cal experiences was the most laborious part, she said - “that took longer than some of my camps!”

Now that it’s over, Tahlia says she is proud of her achievement.

“I wanted to do it because I felt like I could achieve it and I wanted to prove that to myself,” she said.

Family played a big part in her decision to go for the award; her mum, dad, aunties, Nan

and sister are all Queen’s Scouts too.

In fact, Tahlia’s sister and best friend also completed the award in 2020, providing companionship for the duration of the program.

And the whole family was there at her official award presentation at Pearcedale Football Club at the end of January.

In front of 100 friends, family members and fellow scouts, Tahlia received the necessary honours in a ceremony filled with joy and pride.

Cr Tim Dark of Greater Dandenong Council, who attended the award ceremony, reflected on Tahlia’s achievement at a council meeting on Monday 8 February.

“It was good to attend and celebrate with friends and family and to witness how the community turned out and rallied around it.

I wish to congratulate Tahlia Morgan on her acknowledgement and winning of the Queen’s Scout Award which is the highest award that you can win in Scouts. I think it was a very well achieved result,“ he said.

EVERY TEST HELPS US KEEP CATCHING UP WITH MATES Every test keeps us on top of this virus.

And keeps us doing the things we love.

So even if your symptoms are mild, or you’ve been tested before, every test helps.

For testing locations visit CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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NEWS

‘Depraved’ sex offending

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A “depraved” online sex predator who solicited explicit images from children as young as 12 must report to authorities for the rest of his life.

Perry Graham, 25, of Noble Park North, traded the images and videos like boys swapped football cards, County Court judge Paul Higham said on 18 February.

Under a username ‘Ray Quasigod’, he chatted online with children between 12 and 17 and directed them to perform sex acts or send lewd pictures.

His language showed an “entrenched sexual depravity”.

A total of 1140 child abuse images of victims as young as eight were found on his laptop, phone and tablet seized by police in a raid of his home in early 2017.

Graham pleaded guilty to more than 20 charges including soliciting and transmitting child abuse material online as well as grooming and procuring children under 16 for sexual activity.

He’d developed a “chilling and casualised” indifference to his victims - and persistent, threatening and predatory behaviour to them, Judge Higham said.

“You were going on a hunt to see what was out there in the virtual world.”

With few friends, Graham - who grew up in Springvale - was described as living in the virtual world and shunning the outside one.

In online gaming forums, he contacted long term intimate partners that he hadn’t met in person, the judge said.

Judge Higham noted Graham’s relevant prior history.

Graham was placed on the sexual offenders register in 2015 after being convicted for having sex with a then-14-year-old ‘girlfriend’.

He then continued chatting with minors and transmitting child-abuse imagery between 2016-’19 - even after being raided and re-arrested in 2017.

After police seized his electronic devices, Graham acquired new ones and continued to offend.

Judge Higham noted Graham’s moderateto-high risk of re-offending. He was particularly concerned by Graham’s continual denials and minimising of his offences.

According to a pysch assessment, Graham could not recall the offending and said it didn’t sound like something he’d do.

Graham had not yet undergone sex-offend-

er treatment due to delays in his case.

“It seems most regrettable that your rehabilitation and the protection of the community have been ill-served by (the) delay,” Judge Higham said.

Graham was still serving up to four years jail handed down by the County Court in late 2019 for similar but fewer offences between 2016 and 2019.

Taking that sentence into account as a totality, Judge Higham jailed Graham for three years and eight months with a 15 month nonparole period.

It effectively extended Graham’s jail time by 11 months, and non-parole period by 10 months.

Judge Higham ordered Graham must report as a registered sex offender for the rest of his life.

Covid vaccine set for rollout in Dandenong this week Aged care workers and residents in Dandenong, Dandenong North, Cranbourne, Cranbourne East and Junction Village will be among the first to receive Covid-19 vaccines.

More than 240 aged and disability care homes in 190 Australian towns and suburbs will be the first to get the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine from Monday 22 February.

Frontline healthcare workers and quarantine and border workers will also be among the first vaccinated at Pfizer hubs as part of phase 1a of the rollout, Federal Health and Aged Care Minister Greg Hunt said.

The hubs including one at Monash Medical Centre, Clayton will be run by the states.

A Commonwealth-led “vaccination taskforce” would deliver the vaccinations to aged

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care and disability care homes.

The Federal Government allocated 59,000 doses to Victoria over the first four weeks - in-

cluding 12,000 in the initial week.

Mr Hunt said a staged approach to the rollout ensured those who needed protection most were first.

“The vaccination program will save and protect lives. Both of our vaccines will prevent serious illness. That is our primary goal.”

The AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine, recently approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, will be rolled out from early March, Mr Hunt said.

The non-compulsory vaccines - which are delivered in two doses three weeks apart will be offered free of charge.

The vaccine must be stored and transported at -70˚C. Victorian Health Minister Martin Foley

said the hubs, such as at Monash Health, will deliver vaccines to most at-risk workers such as frontline health staff, hotel quarantine and health hotel staff and public sector residential aged care staff and residents.

“Our priority is to support the Commonwealth to make sure that the vaccine is administered to workers at the highest risk of contracting COVID-19 as quickly and safely possible.

“Whether they work in hotel quarantine, at the airport, or a specialist COVID ward - we need to keep Victorians most at risk of infection safe, while they continue to keep Victorians safe.”

Details: health.gov.au/initiatives-andprograms/covid-19-vaccines

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Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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STAR JOURNAL 5

LOOKING BACK

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

100 years ago

50 years ago

24 February 1921 Impudent Behaviour of Boys Claude Quist, who did not appear, was charged at Caulfield court on Friday with offensive behaviour in a railway carriage at Carnegie on 17 December. Guard G A Linton gave evidence that when the 5.26pm down train to Dandenong was at Carnegie station he noticed four or five boys standing at the doors of the train. A gentleman reading a newspaper was passing along the platform when one of them grabbed his hat, dodged back into the carriage, and threw the hat down further along the line on the other side of the train. Witness picked out the defendant, but all he said was that he lost his own hat. A fine of £5 or one month’s imprisonment, with costs was imposed.

23 February 1971 Old site to have $400,000 building A local syndicate will build a $400,000 five story retail, office, and professional complex on the site of one of Dandenong’s oldest buildings. The building is the Wessex on the corner of Langhorne and Walker Streets. The floor level of the new building will be a retail business and the five story project will be divided into offices and professional suits for lease. It is expected the build will be completed by July. Dandenong historian Mr Greg Dickson said yesterday. “Indications are the Wessex was built in the early 1860’s, before the town hall. William and Edward Ellis settled in Dandenong and Edward opened a general store in Langhorne Street built of timber

from Diamond Hill and was built by John Hemmings. After he had been in the timber store for some time Mr Ellis moved further along Langhorne Street to the Wessex site where he built of hand make bricks - a general store and dwelling.”

20 years ago 26 February 2001 101 Gone for Good Traders were “dancing in the streets” after Springvale’s infamous 101 Amusement Centre shut for good. The lease on the premises expired last Thursday and has not been renewed. Detective Inspector John Noonan, from Dandenong police headquarters, confirmed the amusement centre had closed.

“The lease wasn’t renewed by the landlord and hopefully that’s the end of it,” he said.

One shopkeeper who did not want to be iden-

tified and who confronted drug dealers operating in the vicinity said they had threatened to “cut him up into little pieces” and burn his shop down.

5 years ago 22 February 2016 Drive against sky rail Residents in Douglas Street Noble Park are mobilising against possible destruction of nearby parkland by the proposed sky rail project. Eric D’Cuz’s property is several hundred metres west of the Chandler Road level crossing which is one of the nine to be removed by the State Government’s planned elevated Dandenong - Caulfield rail line. “I’ll fight it to the end,” the quietly spoken man says as he prepared to distribute No Sky rails petitions, posters and pamphlets.

NEWS

Live to help each other

By Very Rev. Fr. Aleksandar Savic of St Stefan’s Serbian Orthodox Church, Keysborough Lately, we have all witnessed how little it takes for a person to become aware that he is very vulnerable even when he lacks nothing in material terms.

It was enough to just deny a part of what is most important, a little freedom, and we all found ourselves confused, wondering, how, where, how long will it all last, etc.

As we listened and watched from which side some answer would come that would solve all the mystery, a long time passed but that answer is still not in sight.

Politicians and even the professional public found themselves divided in their views and opinions, which further makes ordinary peo-

ple feel more vulnerable.

It was certainly the most difficult for a religious person to accept the prohibition of common prayer in the temple.

However, at the same time, as religious beings, we should accept such events without grumbling and try to learn something from everything.

In other words, such events should be understood as temptations that occurred by God’s permission.

Seen from that perspective, we will come to the conclusion that this can and is for the benefit of the people themselves.

In separation from each other, we could understand how important it is to have another, someone around us, and that as such we are created by God, to live with each other.

And not only that, but also something bigger and more sublime, to live for each other.

Maybe it seems like a very ordinary and simple thing.

In quick thinking, we would say that we do so and that we treat others with care.

Therefore, the question is whether in that

attention we give to the other, that side feels our sincere love.

Only then will we see if our relationship with the other is sincere and complete.

So if it were only for the sake of improving relations between people, we could say that it was useful to go through one such temptation as a pandemic due to the coronavirus.

We hope and pray to God for all people and the whole world, for those who are working to find a suitable cure for the coronavirus, and especially for those who are sick and caring for the sick, as well as for those who have not won the fight against this virus.

Let us believe that God will grant victory because of his mercy, goodness and love for people.

Peter proves it’s never too old to learn

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Peter Jabbour at his graduation at Southern Cross University on 12 February.

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There is not much that Dandenong North’s Peter Jabbour hasn’t achieved.

A business success story, a Greater Dandenong Living Treasure, a Multicultural Ambassador, an Order of Australia medallist, and a generous charity donor and volunteer.

But at 76, Mr Jabbour has done something that would deter many of his age. He went back to school.

He enrolled at Southern Cross University and graduated with a Master of Business Law on 12 February.

It was a long-held dream. Before moving to Australia from the Middle East, Mr Jabbour had been accepted but unable to take up the offer to study at Oxford University in 1962.

Instead he arrived in Australia nearly 50 years ago, building his own companies in his import business World of Technologies, Euro Home and Jabbour Holding Group.

In his studies, Mr Jabbour wasn’t lost in the heady complexities of intellectual property, contracts, international law, corporate governance and taxation What he had learnt to survive in the international business world wasn’t written in books, he said.

“My professors found I knew more than the other students.”

Born in Jerusalem, he spent up to seven hours a day translating, recording and typing up course notes into his native Arabic language.

It at least doubled his workload but ensured he understood the 21 subjects “100 per cent perfect”.

“Anyone who wants to be successful has to sacrifice his happiness and his time.

“You can’t get a good result in business or in study without putting in the time.”

All the while, he endured serious health battles, including three surgeries and a trip to emergency in the past year.

Even in hospital, he kept studying.

Despite having glaucoma in one eye, he continued to read into late into the night. He started reading recordings of his notes to take the pressure off his eye.

Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

Peter Jabbour at his graduation with daughter-in-law Sharon Maxwell Jabbour, son Ramsey Jabbour and wife Amale Jabbour.

“Even if I lose my eye, I will continue studying,” he told his family.

And then there was Covid-19.

But funnily enough, the pandemic lockdown suited Mr Jabbour - it gave him more time to devote 60-hour weeks to his studies.

“It used to take a lot of work but I enjoyed it.

It’s not easy but I enjoyed the challenge.

“You can do what you want to do in this life - if you want to.

“It shows you can learn a lot of things even at my age. Nothing is impossible.”

Health permitting, he’ll use his qualifications to help others who can’t afford legal advocacy.

And he hopes his example will also inspire others his age not to be afraid to study or to try. Just as one of his grandchildren recently enrolled for law studies.

“I want to leave for my four grandkids more than just money but to encourage them to study.

“I want to encourage a whole new generation to come and study.” dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Living Treasures ‘dumped’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong Council has defended its Australia Day awards selection process after an allegation that two community stalwarts were “dumped” as Living Treasures.

Gaye Guest and Dawn Vernon had been originally selected along with former mayor Roz Blades to join the illustrious Living Treasures list on 26 January 2021, according to a selection panel member.

However the pair were left out by a second reconvened panel who selected Ms Blades, exmayor Youhorn Chea, artist Philip Faulks and charity advocate Teresa Rechichi.

The Living Treasure list is one of Greater Dandenong’s most revered awards. It comprises 41 names who have made a lasting impact on Greater Dandenong.

The apparent snub was revealed in a Facebook post by ex-councillor Maria Sampey, who declared it as making a “mockery of the Australia Day Awards process”.

She called for Ms Vernon and Ms Guest to be “given their Awards as Living Treasures”.

Ms Sampey said most of the award selections were made by the first panel including herself, Mr Chea and then mayor Jim Memeti prior to the 24 October council elections.

“Somewhere in the process, names were added that were not there when I was on the committee.

“This is because I believe that certain people on the new committee did not like the two people that had previously been chosen as Living Treasures and dumped them.”

Ms Sampey said the first panel decided to readvertise for nominations for the Citizen of the Year category, because it received just one nomination.

She also questioned the “special treatment” of panel member Mr Chea - who retired as a councillor prior to the October election - and

Dawn Vernon, centre, with Cassandra Hoult and John Legione at a community saftey event in Picture: GARY SISSONS 2019. 195117

Local historian Gaye Guest with memorial plaques in NPAC. Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

from all panel members.”

The panel had to be reconvened after the council election to finalise selections, Cr Long said.

“The three community members on the panel remained the same, so only the councillor representatives changed.

“A much higher number of applications were received as a result of the second round.

In fact, 16 worthy submissions were received for the Living Treasure category alone, which was a great response from our community over the two rounds.

“All of these applications were assessed by the guidelines and the highest scoring four applicants were nominated as this year’s Living Treasures.”

Cr Long said the awards selection followed a “very rigorous and thorough assessment process”.

“As always it was completely legitimate and transparent and was conducted in accordance with the strict guidelines and procedures we have in place.

“The work of the first panel was most competently and fairly incorporated into that of the second panel and the original applications were reassessed in line with the new applications.”

Meanwhile Ms Guest and Ms Vernon - both long-standing community contributors - are caught in the middle.

Ms Guest is a trustee of Noble Park Public Hall and Greater Dandenong cultural heritage advisory committee member as well as member of many community groups.

She said this showed the awards committee needed to be independent from councillors.

“I didn’t realise it was a popularity contest.

You have to take people on their merits.”

Ms Vernon is best-known as leading Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch. She has received a citizens commendation award from Victoria Police and a council Good Neighbour award.

She said receiving the Living Treasure award would have been a “real honour”.

“But I don’t want a big thing about it.”

was soon after voted on as a Living Treasure.

It “bypassed the rule” that a former councillor “had to be off council for at least 12 months” before being nominated.

In response, Greater Dandenong Council backed Mr Chea’s eligibility.

Mayor Angela Long, who sat on the second panel, stated that only sitting members of Federal, State and local government were ineligible.

She said the first panel requested for the readvertising of the Living Treasure category as well as Citizen of the Year and Sustainability “which was subsequently done”.

“At no stage were any of the first submissions for Living Treasures confirmed as being successful nominations.

“We ... had a very low number of submissions in some of the categories the first time around due to a number of factors including the Covid-19 pandemic, so the decision was made to readvertise and reopen those.

“Further there was a signed agreement regarding confidentiality of the applications

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Selba Luka, centre, receives her award from Mayor Angela Long and Deputy Mayor Sophie Tan.

Pictures: HAS MEDIA

Selba (front) and volunteer Veronica in the Afri Aus-Care veggie garden.

The organisation provides cooking classes for vulnerable members of the community. 213664

By Danielle Kutchel A tireless champion for African and CALD communities has been named Greater Dandenong’s Citizen of the Year.

Selba Luka, founder of Afri-Aus Care, received the award at an invite-only event at Springvale City Hall on Tuesday 26 January.

She admitted the award was a total shock, but a welcome one, and dedicated it to the community, staff, volunteers, supporters and

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sponsors of Afri-Aus Care.

Born in Malawi, Ms Luka often says her heart is in South Sudan as she works closely with the south-eastern South Sudanese community.

Afri-Aus Care was born of her experiences when she arrived in Australia, where she experienced difficulties and hardship in her first years in the country.

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African women who are new to Australia and need assistance to find employment and learn English. Many of these women are survivors of domestic abuse, and Afri-Aus Care provides mental health support too as they build a new life.

Speaking at the Australia Day ceremony, Ms Luka said she was honoured to have received such a prestigious award.

“May we continue to be united. Dandenong is a great city to be,“ she said.

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support, outreach and skills development for members of the African and CALD communities.

It works closely with youth offenders, providing them with a pathway out of these behaviours and into a more positive contribution to society. During the pandemic for example, ex-offenders helped create food hampers and deliver these to the most vulnerable in society.

Afri-Aus Care also works with “the mamas“,

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Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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STAR JOURNAL 7

NEWS

Businesses snapped shut

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Springvale restaurant owner Andy Dang had been prepared for a bumper Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day weekend.

Then with a few hours’ notice, a five-day snap Covid lockdown stranded his Hoa Tran restaurant with a tonne of noodles but no one to feed.

His tables closed from midnight Friday 12 February, a full list of bookings were cancelled.

Days of preparing pots of stocks, ordering foods for the weekend came to nought.

“We ordered so much stuff. Everything is thrown away,” Mr Dang said.

“It was so unexpected, so fast and so quick.”

Despite the annual Springvale Lunar New Year festival already being cancelled, the weekend’s celebrations had been hoped to help businesses recover some of 2020’s heavy losses.

Instead, lockdown’s eerie desolation returned - albeit more briefly.

There had been fears the ‘circuit breaker’ lockdown - in response to Covid infections escaping Holiday Inn hotel quarantine - might extend 14 days or beyond.

Mr Dang says he’s wracked by thoughts of when the next snap lockdown will hit.

“At the moment, I can’t plan a week ahead, just day by day. Every day something new comes out of (Premier Daniel Andrews’) mouth - they keep changing the rules.

“I know we have to play a part. I’m just devastated by the whole situation. We don’t seem to get (Covid-19) under control.”

During lockdown, takeaways only was a loss-maker.

“The main problem is the five-kilometre rule. It’s a killer for any business.”

And the bills still roll in even while he can’t trade, he says.

More government assistance for small businesses was needed - “band-aid” grants “here and there” of up to $10,000 were of no real help, Mr Dang said.

The business came off the winding-down JobKeeper scheme in December.

Thi Lanh Trang, who owns Mekong restaurant, is on the brink -unable to pay her next week’s rent.

Being a new business, Mekong is ineligible for JobKeeper support. Since buying in July and enduring months of lockdowns and a 10-customer limit, she says she’s made just $1600.

Once the owner of a successful bakery in Richmond, Ms Trang wanted to set up a business closer to home where she could care for her 97-year-old grandmother.

New Year’s weekend had at last provided full bookings for her fledgling business.

She had prepared large stocks of food - vegetables, meat, seafood and pots of soup that went uneaten.

After just four takeaway orders on Saturday, Ms Trang closed the restaurant entirely until the end of lockdown.

Searn Ear who owns ham manufacturer Saigon Food Products said many of his restaurant clients had not survived 2020.

Businesses that endured were just starting to recover momentum before Chinese New Year, Mr Ear said.

Andy Dang in his empty restaurant Hoa Tran during the circuit-breaker lockdown. 228680

Cr Richard Lim with Angkun Ley from My Cambodia restaurant during the lockdown.

Hai Quang Seafood in Springvale reported “very quiet” trade during lockdown. 228681 Hoa Tran restaurant on 16 February. 228680

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“It’s been a roller coaster since the lockdowns last year.

“When it’s not under lockdown it’s very busy and everyone is very confident.

“Now the whole place is empty and it takes three or four weeks to recover.”

Many of the businesses were owned by Asian migrants who had already come from “tough times”. “There’s a resilience. I can only imagine our parents packing their bags leaving for a new country and not having anything.”

“We take it as it comes. All we can do is stay positive.”

Springvale Asian Business Association (SABA) president Daniel Cheng said the lockdown hit Springvale hard, just as it was starting to get back to its “vibrant” normal self.

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Greater Dandenong councillor Richard Lim said the buzzy mood in Springvale had gone “very quiet”.

“All the shops are closed. I feel sorry for the florists and those in hospitality.”

Premier Daniel Andrews said Victorians’ “sacrifices and the hard slog” was “driving the virus into the ground”.

“Because of you, we’ve been able to track, trace and corner this mutant and more infectious strain of the virus.”

On 17 February, Mr Andrews announced an easing of restrictions, including the re-opening of restaurants, retail and entertainment venues.

There were no new cases of coronavirus over the previous 24 hours. The state had 25

active cases, 3400 primary close contacts and more than 40 high-exposure sites, mainly linked to the Holiday Inn cluster.

Mask wearing is required in indoor public spaces. Up to five visitors are allowed to attend homes per day, with gatherings of up to 20 in public.

“As much as far as we’ve come, as much as we’ve achieved, without the full-scale rollout of the vaccine - this virus isn’t going away.”

Opposition health spokesperson Georgie Crozier said the Premier was refusing to release health advice to justify the restrictions.

“Andrews is hell bent on exerting power over the citizens of Victoria rather than being able to manage outbreaks in a calm and sensitive way.”

Covid-19: Single case found in South East ‘cluster’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells No further Covid cases have been linked to a Noble Park man who worked in hotel quarantine and tested positive to Covid-19 on 3 February.

Last week the Department of Health removed 14 locations from the list of the state’s Tier 1 high exposure sites.

Many of the sites were in Melbourne’s South East including Springvale, Keysborough and Noble Park.

Victoria was released from stage-4 lockdown on 18 February, with 19 active cases and 40 high-exposure sites in Melbourne’s 8 STAR JOURNAL

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north and west currently linked to the Holiday Inn. At that stage there were 1300 primary close contacts.

The 26-year-old Noble Park man tested negative on his last shift on “hallway duty” as a Covid-19 Quarantine Victoria (CQV) employee at the Grand Hyatt Hotel on 29 January, according to health authorities.

His positive test was returned five days after his last shift.

As a residential support officer, he worked on the same hotel floor as several Covid-19 cases. But the Department of Health says “it is not clear how he became infected”.

None of the 1318 identified primary close

Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

contacts of the man have so far tested positive.

All of his 21 social and household primary close contacts tested negative, as did 661 workplace contacts.

More than 710 contacts at the sites were tested and quarantined.

Anyone who visited the Tier 1 sites is urged to immediately isolate, get a Covid test and remain isolated for 14 days.

At the time, Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton said the man’s testing showed a probable “high viral load”.

“For his very close contacts there is a risk that they could potentially become cases.”

In response, Greater Dandenong resi-

dents queued up to three hours at Covidtesting stations.

Noble Park fire station temporarily closed after a brigade social function was attended by the man - who was also a CFA volunteer.

“All identified contacts of the confirmed case followed DHHS direction with respect to isolation and testing requirements,” a CFA spokesperson said.

“Alternative arrangements are in place between neighbouring brigades to ensure community safety and emergency response isn’t compromised.”

The station resumed operations on Wednesday 17 February. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

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Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

|

STAR JOURNAL 9

NEWS

Jailed for ‘bizarre’ holdup

By Cam Lucadou-Wells An armed robber has been jailed after pointing an imitation pistol at a man’s head while demanding repayment of an alleged debt.

Rickie King, then 24, drove to the man’s girlfriend’s home in Frankston on 1 July 2020 and demanded immediate payment of $2500 for damage to his car.

“If it’s not me who gets the money, then someone much bigger and ‘badder’ than me will come and get the money,” King said.

“He won’t care that you have kids here. He will enter the premises and come through it in order to get the money back.”

Fearing for her and her four young chil-

dren’s safety, the girlfriend - “shaking and crying” - wasn’t aware that the pistol was a fake, County Court of Victoria judge Michael McInerney said on 16 February.

As King stood by with gun in hand, she transferred the money to King’s nominated bank account Judge McInerney said the girlfriend reported the “serious but somewhat bizarre” hold-up to police several hours later - against the wishes of her partner.

King and his associates were arrested in Doveton on 3 July.

During a raid of King’s Ashwood home that day, police seized 19.3 grams of cannabis and a flick-knife.

At the time, King was on bail - awaiting a 12-month deferred sentence so he could attend rehab at Odyssey House.

Six weeks in, he was expelled from Odyssey for not “lagging” on a person bringing drugs into the facility. King was not using drugs at the time, his defence lawyer submitted.

King pleaded guilty to level 2 armed robbery - which carries a mandatory jail sentence, drug possession and possessing a prohibited weapon.

His 17-page criminal history, involving dishonesty, assault, recklessly endangering an emergency worker, drugs and driving offences, dates back a decade.

In that time, King has been sentenced to a

series of community correction orders and jail terms.

Judge McInerney said King’s “deprived” upbringing and the impact of drugs on King and his family was “not ... an excuse” but an “explanation” for his criminality.

Noting King’s efforts to be drug-free and apply himself to courses, the judge urged the accused to “free himself from drugs” or risk becoming institutionalised.

“It’s my fervent hope you will be rehabilitated.”

King was jailed for two-and-a-half years, including a non-parole period of 15 months.

He had already served 139 days of pre-sentence detention.

Watt a leap forward for the automotive industry

By Gabriella Payne We may not have hoverboards yet, but the future sure is looking bright for the Australian automotive industry after Injectronics announced the launch of it’s latest project recently - the nation’s first ever scalable hybrid battery remanufacturing exchange program.

This innovative new program is set to create a “circular economy”, by repairing and reusing hybrid-electric vehicle batteries across Australia, which are currently seen as single use parts that often end up in landfill and cost car owners thousands of dollars to replace.

In 2021, it is predicted that over 16,000 hybrid batteries will need to be replaced in cars across the country, with that number expected to rise to more than 23,000 in the year 2024, as more and more people turn to hybrid-electric vehicles.

Not only will consumers and the economy benefit from this game-changing battery remanufacturing program, which is set to be made accessible and implemented around the country, but the environment will also reap the rewards, as toxic batteries are fixed rather than thrown away.

Realising the potential of this new program, the Federal Government have awarded Injectronics a $103,000 grant to support the hybrid battery remanufacturing program, as part of it’s own Automotive Innovation Lab Access Grants program - a key element of the $100 million Advanced Manufacturing Fund.

Injectronics, a part of Innovative Mechatronics Group (IM Group), has been a leading supplier of new and remanufactured automotive electronic parts for almost 40 years now and are a reputable organisation in the automotive industry.

Gino Ricciuti, the executive general manager of IM Group, addressed the press at the company’s Hallam innovation hub on Wednesday 10 February, and said it was an “exciting” and “special day” for one and all.

“We are extremely excited to announce Injectronics’ hybrid battery remanufacturing exchange program,” Mr Ricciuti said.

“This is the first of its type in Australia, the country’s only scalable battery replacement initiative, and one that has Federal Government support.

A project of this type creates a circular economy, putting to an end the single use nature of hybrid batteries, is environmentally friendly in its approach and will save hybrid vehicle owners a considerable sum when their battery fails to work as expected,” he said.

Senator David Van was in attendance at the launch and congratulated Mr Ricciuti and the entire Injectronics team for their ingenuity and “incredible initiative”, stating that they were worthy recipients of the Government’s funding program and that this project “is about as exciting as it gets”.

“This is such a smart solution, one you would think is long overdue and should have been thought of before, so I’m amazed this doesn’t exist in places already,” Senator Van said.

“To hear that a Victorian company is going to be the first to market on this is absolutely the greatest thing.

10 STAR JOURNAL

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Senator David Van and Executive General Manager of IM Group, Gino Ricciuti overlooking a hybrid battery. 228136 The innovation and the technology that goes behind these things - it needs some help and it deserves to be supported by the Government at all levels,” he said.

Senator Van said that “the Morrison Government believes that technology is the solution to fixing our emissions problem” and by investing in companies such as Injectronics, Australia was well on the road to a greener, more sustainable future.

As well as promoting the positive environmental impacts of this new project, Senator Van applauded Injectronics for persevering through the pandemic and for the new jobs that this project would create across the country.

“As businesses are still reeling from the impacts of Covid, there hasn’t been a more critical time than now to invest,” he said.

“These grants will help the businesses get their products to market sooner, which will grow the economy and create new Australian jobs.”

Mr Ricciuti anticipated that this new project would “increase our employment by 25 percent” over the next 18 months, with potential for even more job prospects in the future if hybrid and electric car popularity continued to grow.

While other people have launched similar schemes before, Mr Ricciuti said that the scale of this project set Injectronics apart from other companies.

“There are some very innovative people

Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Gino Ricciuti, MP Julian Hill and Senator David Van are excited to see the remanufacturing program begin. 228136 already out there providing a second-life of a battery. The difference is you take your vehicle to them, they will manipulate it as much as they can, and it’s still a good service - but they’re very scarce, there’s prob-

ably only two in Victoria,” he said.

“This program is about expanding and creating opportunity for the whole aftermarket, for the thousands of automotive repairers out there.” dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

FOCUS ON … SENIORS ENJOYING LIFE

Affordable secure living Blue Gum Lifestyle Village is a lifestyle village for the over 55’s and the active and young at heart.

Situated in the Beaconsfield area, Blue Gum Lifestyle Village offers independent living in a relaxed, safe and secure community environment that allows you to enjoy the comfort of your low maintenance lifestyle.

Blue Gum Lifestyle Village offers a community focused, pet friendly and affordable lifestyle solution, allowing retirees to downsize their home and upsize their lifestyle with brand new 1 and 2 bedroom homes available from $149,000.

“Off the plan” options are also available to allow you to customise your forever home.

The village is conveniently located within 10 minutes’ drive to major shopping centres, doctors, dentists, restaurants and cafes. There

is a bus stop right at the front entry that will take you to the train station, Beaconsfield, Berwick or Pakenham.

Blue Gum Lifestyle Village is less than 1 hour from the CBD for your shopping needs or for all the sporting and musical events that Melbourne has to offer.

There are lovely gardens lining our sealed roads and we have a community garden, offleash dog area and a wonderful, friendly atmosphere. For your security we have onsite managers and a security entrance gate.

We welcome all visitors to come and have a look around the village Monday – Fridays, weekends by appointment.

Come and see what Blue Gum Lifestyle Village has to offer or contact Village Manager for more details on 9769 8201.

Blue Gum Lifestyle Village offers a range of over 55’s permanent living options.

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Andrew joined the Regis Dandenong North community in January 2021 and the team were eager to help him settle in. After a steady start, the Lifestyle team proposed the idea of Andrew having his own personal garden in the home for him to tend to and grow. Without hesitation, he jumped at the opportunity and said he wouldn’t like it any other way.

The Regis team worked together in building a new vegetable garden for the home to cater for Andrew’s needs and now you can see him tending to his veggies three times a day. The Lifestyle team notice that he always has a smile on his face knowing that this is his garden - on a regular basis, he loves to show fellow residents what he’s been growing and it’s a great source of

pride! Currently, his personal garden boasts a selection of spring onions, lettuces, carrots, tomatoes, spinach, cucumber, broccoli and rosemary. Andrew says that he wants to see how these crops grow, and then see what else is possible. The community at the home and looking forward to trying his delicious, organic selection of produce.

Situated in a quiet residential precinct in Dandenong North, Regis Dandenong North is close to public transport and a range of beautiful parks and gardens, including the expansive BJ Powell Reserve just across the road. Regis Dandenong North welcomes new residents to their community. Visit www.regis.com.au for more information, or call 1300 998 100 to book a private tour.

Your active and affordable lifestyle 0607-SBX-NEWS-0221

A positive lifestyle

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Andrew can’t wait to see how his crops grow.

Blue Gum Lifestyle Village is located in Melbourne’s flourishing South East and offers the ease and convenience of city living, but is hidden from the outside world within a quiet and tranquil community.

Pet friendly | Off-leash park | Community garden | Secure entry gates | Public transport at our front door | Onsite management 03 9769 8201 | 20 Brunt Road, Beaconsfield VIC 3807 | bluegumlv.com.au

At Regis, we’re proud of our varied and unique lifestyle program. Our passionate and dedicated teams deliver daily activities to engage our residents and make them smile.

Think lifestyle, think Regis.

Find out more at regis.com.au or call 1300 998 100

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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12483846-RC09-21

Rethink Aged Care

STAR JOURNAL 11

NEWS

Ninja playground a first Residents can ‘make their move’ in a newlyopened ninja-themed playground in Burden Park.

With a QR code for competitions, the Springvale South ‘ninja warrior’ active play course is the first of its kind in Victoria.

It is designed for 12 years and above.

Meanwhile, Warner Reserve in Springvale recently installed a fitness station with two pods of activities including aerobic cycle, cross-trainer, sit-up bench, body twist and stretching station.

Geoffrey Carson Reserve in Keysborough and Olinda Reserve in Springvale have been revamped with new play equipment.

Greater Dandenong mayor Angela Long said the new spaces were an important addition.

“It’s pleasing to see many local children and

families enjoying these new spaces, which are designed to encourage active, challenging, imaginative and social play for both younger and older children.”

Cr Long encouraged residents to use the many public outdoor facilities available in the region.

“Studies have shown that spending just 15 minutes in nature can make you feel happier, more relaxed, creative and focused.

“Enjoying some of our green spaces and active areas will give your mood a boost and help your physical health.”

Council is running its Make Your Move community-health campaign -, a call to action for the community to be more physically active.

Details: greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

A Greater Dandenong park’s fitness station - a place to “make your move’’. 219735 Picture: GARY SISSONS

Skills harvested in big build at Emerson School Emerson School senior students got their hands dirty in creating a space for a new seasonal garden.

At the school’s Heatherton Road campus, horticulture, building and construction, and automotive classes first made a driveway and path to deliver soils, mulches and building materials.

They constructed four large loading bays with retaining walls and laid slab floors, and

then made garden beds to plant seasonal crops.

The automotive team also welded together steel archways to support climbing plants.

“The project called on students’ understanding of measurements, OH&S and team building, as well as being mapped into their VCAL studies,” an Emerson spokesperson said.

Garden beds under construction at Emerson School.

Garden beds under construction at Emerson School.

Emerson School automotive students welded steel archways for climbing plants.

Emerson School senior students laid slab floors for the garden’s loading bays.

WHAT’S ON Writing Group

University of the Third Age

Welcome to an organic group offering writers an opportunity to share their work and brainstorm ideas in a relaxed manner. New writers welcome.

Thursday 11 March 10am - 12pm at The Open Door, 110 Ann St, Dandenong. Gold coin donation welcome, bookings essential. Details: Jo or Tayla on 9791 8664 or email Theopendoor@ssjg.org.au

U3A Dandenong is welcoming new members.

We have around 40 educational, cultural, and physical activity programmes.

For further information go to www.dandenongu3a.org.au

·

Dinner with a VIEW Dandenong Evening VIEW Club is celebrating its 35th birthday. Guest speaker Alan McLean will speak about ‘Treasures of Old’. VIEW stands for voice, interests and education for women and the Club supports the SMITH Family’s Learning for Life Program. New members and guests are always welcome.

Tuesday, 2 March, 7pm for dinner at the RSL, 44 - 50 Clow Street, Dandenong. Bookings essential. Details: 0417 511 588.

·

12 STAR JOURNAL

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You And I rescheduled

Voices of Casey Choir Voices of Casey is pleased to announce that choir rehearsals have just begun on 1 February.

Being a non-auditioned mixed choir, we welcome all enthusiastic as well as seasoned singers, who enjoy a mix of a little classical, middle-ofthe-road, old classics and pop.

Our concerts carry a theme and music is tailored to the event. Our Music Director is Kerry Gerraty.

Fiddlers Green Retirement Village, 57 Gloucester Ave., Berwick on Mondays (except school holidays) from 7pm. Details: Paulien, 0412 741 195 or voicesofcasey@gmail.com.

·

Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

Rachael Beck and Michael Cormick are two of Australia’s best loved musical theatre stars.

They explore the wonderful world of musicals with an evening of stories, fun, laughter and perhaps even a few tears.

Saturday 13 March, 8pm-9.30pm at The Drum Theatre, corner Walker and Lonsdale streets, Dandenong.

Bookings: 8571 1666 or greaterdandenong. vic.gov.au/drum

· Mr Cormick and Ms Beck are looking forward to taking to the stage together once again.

Picture: SUPPLIED

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Fears grow for Myanmar

By Gabriella Payne Many people from Melbourne’s Burmese minority groups are becoming increasingly worried about friends and family members back home in Myanmar, in light of the country’s recent military coup.

With the military now once again in control of the country and political tensions continuing to escalate, many leaders from Melbourne’s Rohingya, Karen and Chin communities say that they “fear the worst” for their compatriots, due to the military’s history of violence and ethnic cleansing.

In 2017, almost 800,000 Rohingya people fled to neighbouring Bangladesh when Myanmar’s military began murdering, raping and torching Rohingya villages in the Rakhine state, a move labelled as “a textbook example of ethnic cleansing” by the United Nations.

Majid Abdul, a Rohingya community leader from Melbourne’s South East who was persecuted by the military and fled the country fearing for his life, said that he was afraid that the current situation would see more violence break out against minorities in Myanmar.

“Many people are worried about family members still in Burma,” Mr Majid said.

“We don’t know what will happen. There are protests all over the country but the military are powerful and ruthless.”

Since Myanmar’s military (the Tatmadaw) seized control of the nation from the democratically elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi on the morning of Monday 1 February, citizen protests and demonstrations have been met with gunfire, tanks, internet black outs and arrests as the military declared a year long state of emergency and took Ms Suu Kyi and other ministers into custody.

This is not the first time Myanmar’s military have taken control over the country either from 1962, the armed forces ruled Myanmar (formerly Burma) for almost 50 years, and it wasn’t until 2011 that the country began making tentative strides towards regaining democracy.

Aung San Suu Kyi was elected as Myanmar’s leader in late 2011 and was hailed as a “beacon of democracy” by many, after spending almost 15 years under house arrest (when the military ruled) and being awarded the Nobel Peace prize in 1991.

However, Ms Suu Kyi’s international reputation suffered greatly in recent times, as news of the military crackdown and Rohingya genocide in Myanmar’s Rakhine state surfaced in

Myanmar’s capital, Yangon, is the site of many protests following the military coup.

2017, which, to this date, Ms Suu Kyi has failed to condemn and acknowledge.

Majid Abdul is just one of the Rohingya people who faced military persecution in the Rakhine state, and after escaping Myanmar for the safety of Bangladeshi refugee camps, he eventually made his way to Australia - but the atrocities he saw have stuck with him.

“I grew up in the Rakhine state and my parents ran their own business, fishing, cultivating and growing produce,” Mr Majid said.

“And then the military came when I was young and arrested our parents and extorted them, and I remember all of us children crying together, I still remember.”

Mr Majid said that once a month, sometimes even once a week, the military would return to arrest his parents and extort them, and “if they didn’t have money, they would have to sell everything”, in order to meet the military’s demands.

“We were scared and thought we must hide,” Mr Majid said.

“We fled the country because we knew that the military would kill us one day.”

Now, having made a home in Australia, Mr Majid feels lucky to have found a “safe and happy” place to live, free from danger, but with the recent coup seeing the Burmese military rise to power once again, he fears for fellow

Picture: UNSPLASH

Rohingyan people back home and those stuck in refugee camps.

“Our people are persecuted and discriminated against,” he said.

“We would like to see more pressure from the international community on the military to restore democracy and stop violence against minorities.”

The United Nations have also expressed concerns that the recent military coup will worsen the situation for the estimated 600,000 Rohingya people still living in Myanmar and for those people currently living in refugee camps, who will now be even more fearful of returning home.

Talks had begun about the possibility of Rohingyans stuck in Bangladesh’s refugee camps to start returning home to Myanmar soon, but with this recent coup frightening many, this move looks unlikely.

Cath Scarth, the CEO of migrant refugee settlement agency AMES Australia, said that the conflict and uncertainty happening in Myanmar at the moment could cause higher levels of anxiety and stress for Burmese refugee communities.

“People are incredibly anxious, and particularly because for many of the refugees who are here, they have gone through that kind of period of persecution themselves and so will

be very, very anxious about family members and what it might mean for them,” Ms Scarth said.

“And just the uncertainty. I think it’s very difficult for people to understand what might happen.

Anything like that is hard when you’re at such a distance, but doubly hard when it’s not always easy to get direct information about loved ones,” she said.

Ms Scarth encouraged Melbourne’s Burmese community to reach out if they needed help or just someone to talk with, and recommended people “check in on one another” in a neighbourly way.

“It’s even more important in times of crisis, such as the coup in Myanmar, that refugee communities are given as much support as possible,” Ms Scarth said.

“The (Burmese) community here will be feeling very helpless in terms of what’s going on, so even just asking if someone is ok could make a difference.”

If you or a community member you know is worried about the situation and needs help or someone to talk to, there are many organisations providing assistance.

Contact either AMES Australia on 13 AMES (13 2637), Lifeline 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

Megawatts at mega treatment plant solar farm A 39,000-panel solar farm will generate an estimated 19 megawatts off-the-grid at Eastern Treatment Plant in Bangholme.

Works are expected to start on the farm next to the sewage treatment plant about mid-2021.

The treatment plant will generate 65 per cent of its power needs, when the solar farm is operational by mid-late 2022.

It is touted by Melbourne Water as one of the largest ‘behind-the-meter’ solar installations in Australia.

Melbourne Water program delivery general manager Eamonn Kelly said the plant had been generating 30 per cent of its electricity from sewage gas since it opened in 1975.

“With the addition of this solar plant, that capability will more than double to about 65 per cent - similar to the power required to run 6000 homes a year.

“This will take a significant amount of pressure off the grid and will deliver the important benefit of reducing our carbon emissions by more than 30,000 tonnes a year.”

Melbourne-based company Beon Energy Solutions won the contract to build the solar farm.

Carrum MP Sonya Kilkenny said it was “exciting to see such a significant solar project right here in our local community.”

Melbourne Water has committed to halve its emissions by 2025 and reduce them to net zero by 2030.

The Eastern Treatment Plant treats about dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Eastern Treatment Plant is expected to host a 39,000-panel solar farm from mid-late 2022.

40 per cent of Melbourne’s sewage - about 350 million litres a day.

In 2019-’20, it treated 145 billion litres of sewage and delivered 5.5 billion litres of recycled water.

Solar panels at Eastern Treatment Plant, Bangholme.

Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

|

STAR JOURNAL 13

NEWS

Seeking next superstars Star News Group is currently on the hunt for new team members, and promises a fastpaced, exciting role with a supportive team that will put a smile on your face every single day.

Star News Group advertising sales team leader Kelly, who has been working for the company for about 12 years, said it was the dream job.

Kelly’s job description involves providing guidance, direction and support to “our awesome” advertising team and guiding and supporting our local businesses and schools, sports and clubs, to help grow their local reach through various media and marketing platforms.

“Every day is new and different, which makes it exciting,” she said.

“We work with a very supportive manage-

ment team and closely with all departments, from classifieds to editorial to accounts.

“I love my work with the local businesses and the relationships I get to build with them.”

Just a few desks away from Kelly sits Christine, who is a telephone sales representative with Network Classifieds.

Christine applied for the job after noticing an advertisement in the Cranbourne Star News.

Within days she was in the Pakenham office and interviewing for the role with current manager Sue Hall.

“We had a lively interview, I was provided with comprehensive training and the rest is history,” she recalls.

Star News Group employees Chloe, Christine, Kelly and Tristan. 227558

Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Kelly at her desk in the Pakenham office. 227558

Christine hard at work. 227558

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

12465124-CG42-20

Y R E V E E FRE TUESDAY

In her day-to-day role, Christine helps people maximise their business potential through clear, concise, innovative marketing with local community advertising across our network, as well as a broad range of other community advertising.

“There is never a dull moment, and a great team spirit in the office,” she said.

“If you like a fast paced environment that challenges you each day, this job is for you.”

If you’re interested in working with Star News Group, contact mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au or sue.hall@networkclassifieds. com.au .

If you’re interested in working with Star News Group, contact mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au or sue.hall@networkclassifieds. com.au.

14 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services

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Place Your Classified Ads Online Your advert will appear in print and online! dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

|

STAR JOURNAL 15

General Classifieds

24 HOUR SERVICE ฀ ฀

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NEED A LOCAL PLUMBER

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Palings, Pickets, Colorbond Fences & Gates Prompt and Reliable Service

Phone 0419 775 259 or 8751 4016

9 Tap repairs 9 General maintenance 9 No job too small 9 Dishwashers 9 Water and gas leaks 9 Cold water to fridges 9 Repairs to toilets

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M: 0 4 3 0 3 5 3 0 8 0 Ben Employment

section of Network Classifieds.

V Plasterers

21 Dorset Road DANDENONG NORTH VIC 3175

The application is for a permit to:

To remove restrictive covenant E723980 (relating to dwellings being of brick or brick veneer only) from Lot 173 on PS086898

The applicant for the permit is:

Cardamone Building Design

The application reference number is:

PLN21/0012

The date this Notice was erected on the land:

10th March, 2021

V Positions Vacant

DIESEL MECHANIC WANTED DANDENONG SOUTH LOCATION

Under the Planning & Environment Act 1987, Council as the Responsible Authority is giving notice to any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit that they may make a submission/objection.

This application is in the process of being considered. The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application until at least 14 days after the date of this Notice.

The Advertised Material submitted in support of the proposal for Council’s consideration is available through Council’s online Advertised Applications register mygreaterdandenong.com or you can visit in person at Greater Dandenong Civic Centre, Level 3, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong to view the Advertised Material between 8.30am and 5.00pm on business days.

If you wish to make a submission/objection, your submission/objection will be made available to any person for the purpose of consideration as part of the planning process and: • Must be sent to the Responsible Authority in writing; • Must include the above application reference number; • Must include the reasons for the submission/objection; and • Must state how you, the submitter/objector, would be affected by the proposal.

A submission/objection can be made online, or alternatively a submission/ objection form can be downloaded from Council’s website www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au

9793 9970 - 0419 514 977

General Classifieds

V Television/Video/Audio V Adult Services

F.N. PLASTERING & PAINTING

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Trades & Services section of Network Classifieds.

Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

SN1090434-PJ37-13

Rainbow Dolls 1235322622-PB22-17

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V Painters/Decorators

The land affected by the application is located at:

section of Network Classifieds.

12447720-LB18-20

C62885-BG24-8

Real Estate Reg No 082 1317E

9707 5700, 9768 9153

|

NO LEASE ★

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

Ph 9546 9587

Lic No. 116785

PHONE FOR OBLIGATION FREE QUOTATION

16 STAR JOURNAL

PERMANENT ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

V Public Notices and Event

AND STORAGE

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CARAVAN PARK ACCOMMODATION ★ NO BOND

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR AN AMENDMENT TO A PLANNING PERMIT

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

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Motoring

Office Hours Mon-Sat 8am-6pm.

Sunday 10am-4pm 870 Princes Highway, Springvale

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

Ph John 0417 336 906.

9703 1530

V Furniture Removals

Interior/ext High quality Free quote

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

V To Let

LIC. 33033

www.windows1.net.au

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

V Accommodation

Phone Geoff 0418 340 825

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V Pets & Services

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Trades & Services

DOVETON 62 Kidds Road, Sat 27th Feb, 9am-3pm, 2 x Lazy Boy Recliners, good cond., 6 x 200l water bottles, tall boy 4-drawer, crockery. Ph: 0432 681 445.

Bio Gro is an Australian owned and operated business that specialises in the development and manufacture of growing media, mulches and composts, with a range of resource recovery streams.

We are a growing business with high volume and high-quality outputs. We require an organised, self-motivated Diesel Mechanic to run our workshop, scheduling and completing servicing and repairs.

This role is based at our Victorian Facility in Dandenong South and we are offering an excellent opportunity within our business for an experienced Diesel Mechanic to join us. You will be responsible for the safe and effective performance of Fixed/ Mobile Plant, Equipment & Fleet, including maintenance and servicing of Trucks, Front End Loaders, Excavators, Conveyors and Screens. There may also be requirements for site asset repairs and support.

Bio Gro will be implementing a new state of the art resource recovery processing line in 2021 and want great team-oriented people to come along for the ride! If you are passionate about equipment, then we want to talk to you!

About You: • Excellent understanding of safety systems and risk principles with regards to maintenance of heavy equipment and mobile plant • Specified trade qualifications with at least three (3) years relevant experience preferred but not essential.

• Have a strong mechanical background with knowledge of pneumatic equipment and hydraulic systems essential • Understanding of electrical systems and schematics preferred but not essential • Excellent diagnostics, fault finding skills with ability to solve practical problems • Experience in coordinating service schedules and dealing with contractors essential • Understanding of computer work order and purchasing systems • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills • Ability to work independently and as part of a cohesive team with strong time management skills • Commitment to Bio Gro’s safety, environmental and quality assurance policies and company values • Current driver’s license • Good personal presentation Benefits: • A safe, professional and inclusive work environment • Competitive remuneration with on-going training and support • Uniforms, PPE provided To apply please submit your written application addressing the above criteria and include your resume and 2 current referees by email to HR@biogro.com.au.

To all recruitment agencies: Bio Gro does not accept agency resumes.

Please do not forward any resumes or applications to any of our advertised or vacant jobs. Bio Gro is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Call for citizen scientists

By Gabriella Payne

Longtime CFA volunteer John Jackson has been involved with Victoria’s grassland curing program for nearly ten years.

Danielle Wright, a remote sensing analyst at the CFA said that these ground observations, like the ones Mr Jackson took, were combined with satellite imagery to produce a map of Victoria, which showed how dry the grass across the state was at any given time.

“Green grass is 0 percent cured, while grass that is totally dried out is 100 percent cured, and those numbers can help calculate the grassland fire danger index,” Ms Wright said.

“It’s very important for identifying fire danger ratings, and feeds into fire behaviour modelling.”

While the satellite technology on its own is a fantastic help, Ms Wright said that the work

of volunteer observers is “crucial” as the satellite could sometimes overestimate or underestimate curing.

“A paddock might have tall, dry grass but after some heavy rainfall, there could be green shoots coming through which wouldn’t affect fire behaviour, but would still be picked up by the satellite,” she said.

Grassland curing isn’t a new fire prevention strategy, having been conducted in Victoria by the CFA over the last few decades - but it’s hoped that this new module will make it more accessible for greater numbers of people to get involved.

Angela Gardner, the project coordinator

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said that she encouraged new volunteer observers to give grassland curing a go.

“We have about 125 active observers at the moment, and while a lot of people who do it are CFA members, it’s open to anyone from the public,” Ms Gardner said.

“People can actually do the course for their own awareness but if you’d like to sign up as an observer at the end, we’ll send a more detailed booklet to support you.”

If you are interested in registering for the grassland curing observer course and playing a valuable part in helping prevent grassfires, visit www.learninghub.cfa.vic.gov.au

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Community members across Victoria are being encouraged to take part in a new CFA initiative, becoming ‘citizen scientists’, an important role that could help prevent devastating grassfires from now into the future.

As part of a new online module, Victorian CFA volunteers will be able to read and learn about grassland curing (the rate that grass dries out) and then enter their own observations of grassland in their area, providing the CFA with vital information about the state’s fire risk.

After last year’s horrific bushfire season, this new course comes at a great time, offering a step forward in future grassfire prevention tactics and makes use of many willing and capable volunteers around the state.

Significant rainfall last year fuelled exceptional grass growth across Victoria, resulting in a high risk of grassfires this season - something the CFA are hoping to prevent with this new online module.

Longtime CFA volunteer John Jackson has been involved with the grassland curing program for nearly ten years and said that the new course and its updated training provided fantastic resources for both new and existing volunteers.

“I’ve gone through the new course and it’s excellent,” Mr Jackson said.

“It teaches you what you need to become an observer.”

The course includes a simple guide, where volunteers can complete some training before entering information that the CFA will then use for their fire analysis.

Mr Jackson explained the process, stating that it was easy for anyone to use.

“You walk out to a point that you’ve set, have a look at the grass, then use some helpful tools to work out the curing rate,” he said.

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Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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STAR JOURNAL 17

SPORT

Moore family’s day

By Jason Adams Popular husband and wife team Robin and Michelle Moore captured their first city winning double at Sandown Park last Thursday night.

“I can’t believe it. I’ve never trained a city double before!” said an elated Robin Moore.

Chart Topper, a finalist of last year’s Sapphire Crown, was the first to get the job done when she narrowly defeated Fairytale Wish in the third race of the night. It was then Party Lights that put the cherry on top for the Moores as she was faultless when taking out the seventh.

“I knew we had to avoid Zipping Ticket early as they met last time we were here and she got the better of us. She didn’t time the start tonight and luckily we were there to take advantage,” Moore said after Party Lights’ win.

Making the feat even more significant is that ‘Shy’ (Chart Topper) and ‘Coco’ (Party Lights) make up two of a racing team of just three at their Devon Meadows base. They hail from the same litter and are home grown as their mum Amelia Christa is owned and was raced by the family.

“It’s just a small team we have, the other is Sixties Rocker and he’s on his way back and isn’t too far away,” Moore said.

Their tough day on the greens Burden Park bowls results for Saturday Pennant - 20 February Division 1, Section 5 Burden Park lost to Mordialloc at Burden Park, 70-88.

I. Pretty lost to M. Godbolt 15-22.

R. Saunders lost to P. Wills 20-22.

M. Layton lost to S. McNally 16-19.

B. Kingman lost to B. Douglas 19-24.

Division 4 Section 7 Mordialloc defeated Burden Park at Mordialloc, 111-62.

F. Steinmetz defeated S. Lawson 26-19.

F. Bertuna defeated D. Dodds 24-17.

K. McGowan defeated G. Newton 3412.

G. Pearce defeated L. Fletcher 27-14.

There will be ‘barefoot bowls’ at Burden Park this Friday, 26 February, from 6pm.

For details, call Bruce Smith on 0417 034 228. All are welcome.

· · · ·

Husband and wife team Robin and Michelle Moore captured their first city winning double.

The trio have won 24 of their 83 career starts at an impressive strike rate of 29 per cent.

The Moores own and run Cranbourne Boarding Kennels, which saw a much quieter

period than normal throughout 2020 due to obvious circumstances. Here’s hoping that 2021 is a far better year for some of the nicest people in the sport.

· · · ·

The Doves are excited for their Premier challenge

By Nick Creely As Doveton steadily prepares for the challenge of stepping up to the top-flight of the AFL Outer East competition in 2021, it knows it’s going to be faced with some quality football sides.

But the 2019 Division 1 premier is not a team that ever takes a backwards step, and will back itself to do some damage against some new opponents.

The last time the Doves took to the footy field was back on 22 September, 2019 - a day written into the folklore in club history when they took down Pakenham by six points in a classic grand final.

It’s a day no one associated within the four walls of Doveton will ever forget.

Doves coach Daniel Charles told the Journal that it’s going to take time for everyone, even clubs coming off premierships in 2019 to build back into footy after a year off, and said the key was just for the community and clubs to once again get back to playing.

“As far as momentum goes, it’s hard to gain it when you haven’t played for a year, but for us its just about re-energising everyone, and getting back to what we do best, and that’s enjoying ourselves being back playing footy” he said.

“Once you enjoy yourself, the results will come.

“But all I can go off was the last time we played, and I’m expecting very similar to 2019 - it’s going to be a building process, we’ll get better as the year goes on.

“We’re learning how each other plays, and how I want them to play, so I think we’ll be thereabouts, but it’ll be hard to know without knowing about the opposition, but we’re looking forward to challenging ourselves against the best teams in the league.”

The 2019 premiership side will look somewhat different, with the Doves welcoming back two familiar names - Michael ‘Pickles’ Henry and Shannon Henwood back from Hampton Park. Both are well known, and revered Doveton figures.

The Doves have also welcomed back forward Jake Mullen from Somerville, and will have highly-regarded 2020 recruits Austin Deneys and Mark Seedsman at their disposal, with both expected to be significant additions.

Charles said it’s been a tough time building the list after Covid, but is confident the Doves have recruited quality footballers and, more importantly, quality people.

“We were a bit devastated that last year, coming after a terrific 2019, we recruited really well for 2020 but Covid hit and we lost a lot of our recruits that we picked up,” he said.

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Michael ‘Pickles’ Henry is back in Doveton colours. 167720 “Obviously it wasn’t the fault of anyone, it was one of those things - blokes got used to doing other things other than football.

“But leading into this year, we’ve got a few, a few ex-Doveton players in ‘Shanny’ and Pickles’, and Jake Mullen as well which is great.

“However, at the end of 2019 we got Mark Seedsman as well, so he’ll be a great asset for the club, a big-bodied midfielder in Austin Deneys and we’ve got a few young kids that we look forward to seeing them at senior level, in particular Kai Suparta.

“We’ve also picked up some other young kids in Dylan Bayley and Bailey Mills, and they look like lively types.”

The Doves have been a dealt a bit of a blow, with star premiership trio Mitch Cotter (relocating to South Australia to play SANFL), Lachie Batten (signed at Devon Meadows), and Matthew Boyd (relocated to Perth to become

Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

an AFL assistant coach at Fremantle) all departing the club.

While Charles acknowledges that the trio departing isn’t ideal, the Doves have recruited to fill the voids left in the midfield and up forward.

“We’re rapt for Mitch to go to SA and have a crack, I’m always about promoting these kids to play the best standard of footy they can, and hopefully use Dovey as a stepping stone to go to another level,” he said.

“With Boydy, how are you going to replace a 300-game bloody superstar? You can’t do it, but we’ve gone for blokes we needed.

“We’ve got inside mids in Shannon Henwood and Austin Deneys, so they’ll help fill the void.

“And Lachie Batten, he wanted to move on to coach, so good on him, but we feel like we’ve got a really good replacement up forward, a different player but Jake Mullen, who we’re

Picture: ROB CAREW expecting a really big year of.

“The positive thing for us is, yes we lost those three blokes from our grand final team, but I think Boydy played eight games so we had to learn to win without him, and Mitch Cotter didn’t come back to the end of June, so the blokes we’ve picked up will be good players for us for the whole year.

“If I had the choice, I’d have them all, but that’s not possible and those blokes are going on to bigger and better things.”

Doveton will test its squad in a series of practice matches, with the Doves to take on The Basin on 20 March, Upper Ferntree Gully on 27 March and Upwey Tecoma on 10 April.

The Doves kick off life in AFL Outer East’s Premier Division with a clash against Wandin at home on Saturday 24 April, where the club will also be unfurling its 2019 senior football premiership flag in front of its home crowd. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

A genuine show of class

By Nick Creely That’s a huge result for Buckley Ridges.

And a huge result in the context of a fascinating, ever-changing landscape of DDCA Turf 1 cricket in 2020/21.

The Bucks - facing their great rival Springvale South away from home - were graced by the class of star recruit Ian Cockbain, who blasted his way to victory in a gem of a knock.

There was an inevitably to the knock in many ways - Cockbain showed a glimpse of his best back on 30 January with an unbeaten 63 against St Mary’s - but this one against a fellow premiership contender could prove the masterstroke in the Bucks’ quest for another piece of silverware.

It was a stern task for the Bucks, who were set 221 for victory after a strong batting performance from the Bloods.

Winning the toss and batting, the Bloods lost dangerous duo Nathan King and Ryan Quirk early, courtesy of a ripping new-ball spell from Michael Davies (3/52), and when Benny Howell prized out star bat Clint Tomlinson for 21, the home side was wobbling at 3/46.

But Jack Sketcher steadied the ship beautifully, compiling a classy 75, knocking five fours and four sixes to lead the way, linking up in a key partnership with Paul Hill (40) to get the home team in a strong position.

Despite Sketcher eventually falling 25 short of his hundred, the Bloods piled on the runs late with Dylan Quirk (29 off 23) and Akshat Buch (18 off 9) working out the boundaries in vital cameos.

Daniel ‘DJ’ Watson was in no mood to waste time running down the target, racing away to 36 off just 18 deliveries like only he can, but a double-strike from Akshat Buch (2/22), firstly Watson and then bowling Benny Howell (21), saw the Bucks fall to 2/65.

The clever left-arm spinner has turned many games this season for his side, and once again provided a timely spell of slow bowling.

As Cockbain entered Alex Nelson Reserve, it was clear that if the visitors would pull off their most important win of the season, he needed to be there at the end.

The right-hander started steadily, building in small partnerships with Troy Aust (13) and skipper Jayson Hobbs (20), before he accelerated with precision.

As it looked like the Bloods were tightening the screws, Cockbain blew the game away, flaying a remarkable 95 not out as the Bucks took the points with four wickets left to spare.

The classy Gloucestershire batsman is wellrenowned as a white-ball specialist, and came to Australia off the back of a brilliant English T20 blast, where he finished fourth in the competition for runs, and lived up to that billing with nine fours and three sixes in the brutal display.

St Mary’s produced a stunning result, upsetting Narre South’s run towards finals in what could loom as a costly loss for the Lions.

Sending the Saints in at Strathaird Recreation Reserve, Matt Brooks’ group restricted the visitors to 141, with seamer Josh Dowling

Buckley Ridges celebrate the key wicket of Clint Tomlinson on Saturday. 229044 (3/45) the man to lead the charge again, while Kirk Dickson (3/33) also got in on the act with some impressive bowling through the middle.

But it was a horror start to the chase, and one the Lions just couldn’t come back from in the end.

In-form batsman Kyle Hardy fell second ball, before skipper Matt Brooks was skittled the next delivery as the home side lost 2/0 off its first over.

New ball duo Deeshan Vimukthi (5/31) and Corey Ely (3/14) proved almost unplayable as the home side slumped to 5/23, and with very little answers.

Vimukthi in particular was a menace for the top-order batsmen.

Morteza Ali (36) showed the fight required to get the Lions back in the contest, but being bowled out in the 44th over.

It’s a big result for the Saints, particularly with a few rounds to play, who appear almost certain to avoid relegation, and have improved as the season has gone on in promising signs for the future.

Ladder-leading Hallam Kalora Park, meanwhile, show absolutely no signs of slowing down, brushing aside Heinz Southern Districts.

The Hawks were relentless after being sent out to field, rolling the Cobras for 70 in the 35th in a disciplined, well-drilled display of oneday bowling.

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

It could have, however, been a lot worse for the home team, who were at one stage 7/32.

Quick Will Whyte (2/9) was once again sublime, taking both openers’ wickets, while Lee Brown (3/11) controlled things through the middle and Leigh Booth (3/9) continued his outstanding season with another trio of wickets.

The Hawks were never really in any bother in the chase, running down the target with seven wickets to spare, as Sachith Jayasingha (33 not out) cooly guided the team home.

But its another huge momentum booster for the side that has quickly established itself as the season’s most consistent force, and as finals draws nearer, are peaking at the exact right time.

In the final match of the round, Berwick was made to work for it, but ultimately overcame North Dandenong after a match-winning knock from Brodie Emmett.

The Maroons batted first, and clawed its way back from 4/70 to post a highly competitive 6/192 - largely off the back of the highly talented Imran Laghmani.

Laghmani belted 74 from just 79 balls with a total of nine boundaries to really make his mark with the bat, while skipper Clay McCartney was once again among the runs, compiling a fluent 45 not out.

It was yet another show of class from leggie

Ruwantha Kellepotha, who snared 4/38 from his 12 overs to be a constant threat.

It’s now the fifth time he has taken four or more wickets in a match this season with a 40-wicket campaign now within reach.

The Bears were dealt an early blow, with skipper Matt Chasemore falling in the opening exchanges, before dangerous keeper bat Jordan Cleland was trapped LBW for a quickfire 21.

At 2/35, Emmett - alongside the experience and power of Nathan Pilon (46) - got the home side back on track, before Pilon’s scalp gave the Maroons an opening.

Buddhika Janith (2/31) was up and about, bowling the dangerous Kellepotha and having Lachlan Brown caught, and suddenly - at 5/134 and needing near a run-a-ball - the home side were in trouble.

Brodie Emmett was the man of the moment and ultimately the difference in the end, crunching 74 from 112 balls (his second halfcentury of the season) to keep the runs flowing, bringing the game close before his departure once again shook things up.

He’s been a huge improver in 2020/21 at the top-of-the-order.

But Josh Holden (19 not out) and James Wilcock (12 not out) quickly rattled off the remaining 26 runs, with the Bears registering a four wicket win with two overs to spare.

Promising Stingrays start their new season on a high

By Nick Creely The Dandenong Stingrays Girls were made to wait for their first appearance in 2021, but it was worthwhile.

After Victoria’s lockdown last week and an opening round bye, the Stingrays kicked off their NAB League season with a 10-point win against the Western Jets at Bluescope Recreation Reserve in Hastings on Saturday afternoon, flicking the switch after half-time in an impressive display.

It was a closely-fought affair in the first half, with the Stingrays holding on to a four-point lead at quarter time after a goal in the opening minutes from Emily Shepherd set the tone.

The Jets bounced back in the second term to wrestle back the momentum, kicking straight to boot two goals to one for the term.

Like good sides do, the Stingrays simply flicked the switch in a defining third term, dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

completely dominating the Jets in an impressive display.

Keeping the visitors scoreless, the Stingrays - courtesy of goals to Shepherd, Amber Clark and Hayley Monk - got the match-winning break.

Holding up superbly defensively, the Stingrays kept the Jets at bay in the final term as the visitors charged home, with a vital four-term major from Jemma Radford ensuring the home side wouldn’t stumble.

There was plenty to like for the ‘Rays, with Shepherd booting two goals to be a major threat, while Narre North Foxes product Amber Clarke also snagged two and showcased some impressive ability, and Brooke Smith, Charley Ryan, speedster Mackenzie Eardley and co-captain Abbey Jordan were named in the best.

Round 4 on Sunday will see the Stingrays take on GWV Rebels at MARS Stadium.

Emily Shepherd snaps the first goal of the game, and the first of the year, for the Dandenong Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS Stingrays. 229039 Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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STAR JOURNAL 19

Words from our Kinder teacher - Bernita:

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“Limited structure in natural environments for extended periods of time promotes eccentric opportunities for creativity, inquiry, discovery, physical and mental wellbeing. Children are encouraged to play, explore and benefit from using only what nature provides. From the foreshore birds, animals, debris and shells, the beach has plenty of stimuli for children to explore, admire and have educational experiences with. Instilling a love and appreciation of nature helps them to feel connected to the world around them and to develop a sense of a responsibility and care. Expansion of curiosity, investigation and community engagement emerge. Educators will take opportunities to intentionally teach in response to children’s interests.”

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Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au