Dandenong Star Journal - 6th April 2021

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Running colours Things got pretty messy at a fun run at Athol Road Primary School in Springvale.

Students copped blasts of rainbow dust in the quest to raise funds for sports gear.

For more, turn to page 11.

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Collision course

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong councillors are bucking against the early plans for a proposed highrise housing estate of up to 16,000 residents at Sandown Racecourse.

In a further step towards the track’s seeming demise, Melbourne Racing Club is expected to brief councillors on its latest formal rezoning plan on 16 April.

A draft plan by developer Urbis last year proposed a four-stage development of 7500 dwellings - a new suburb with more residents

than in the new Keysborough South estates.

High-rise apartment blocks up to six or seven storeys tall were among the housing mix .

Greater Dandenong mayor Angela Long said the draft plan, if enacted, was an overdevelopment.

“They weren’t even in the ball park,” she said.

“I’d prefer a lesser density and more sporting arenas that can be used by the kids living in those apartments.”

“But the final plan hasn’t come to council yet so they might change the design.”

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Cr Long was concerned about traffic impacts on Princes Highway and the surrounding area. She noted Corrigan Road would be duplicated under the plan.

“We want to see how dense it is. I do have an open mind, I don’t have blinkers on but it has to be the right development.”

She personally felt the loss of major sporting venues such as VFL Park and Sandown on “this side of town”.

“I was hoping we would keep it.”

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festivals and events.

It was first used as a trotting track in 1888, with a bitumen race track opened in 1962. The course’s grandstand was earmarked for Victorian heritage listing in 2019.

Cr Jim Memeti said he wouldn’t support multi-storey apartments or “full-blown” housing on the site.

The development should instead mirror the predominantly one and two-storey dwellings in surrounding streets.

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NEWS

The finish line at Sandown. 233074

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

A close finish to Race 1 at Sandown’s 31 March meet. 233074

Sandown collision course From page 1 “You don’t want people living in there with no backyards.

“There’s a lot of angst in the community.

I know a lot of residents say to just leave the track as it is.

“They are really concerned about the traffic on surrounding streets. There are already traffic jams.

“So they’re asking how is it going to improve the area.”

Cr Rhonda Garad said the draft plans would lead to similar traffic congestion and “planning mistakes” as in Keysborough South.

“We think the community will reject it when it goes out to consultation.”

Last year, then-councillor Peter Brown unsuccessfully stood for election to the Melbourne Racing Club committee on a ‘Save Sandown Racecourse’ platform.

He conceded that the track’s demise was seemingly inevitable.

The project was a “gold mine” in rates revenue for the council. And a new suburb was a

The central wetlands inside the Sandown track. 233074 welcome economic and jobs boost for the Victorian Government, he said.

Mr Brown said the State Government ought to manage the project. “It’s too big for a local council with inexperienced councillors to manage.”

Noble Park resident Giorgio Migliaccio campaigned about a decade ago against the noise from car racing meets. The noise had “calmed” significantly however in recent years, he said.

He was worried about the impact on parking at the already congested Sandown Park railway station, as well as thousands of extra cars on nearby roads.

Services such as the need for an extra school needed to be considered.

“Now is the time for the council to start talking to the State Government to say what we need in this area to support this.”

City planning director Jody Bosman said the briefing was an opportunity to discuss “details

and elements” before the proposed rezoning was finalised and tabled at a council meeting.

“At this stage, it is anticipated that a formal report could possibly be tabled in May or June 2021, which would in the normal sequence of planning scheme amendments be the commencement of the process of formal preparation and exhibition of the proposal.”

According to the MRC, the course has been losing $5 million a year.

MRC chief executive Josh Blanksby recently told Racing.com that the club was going through the rezoning application to “understand the possibilities” of the site’s future.

“It takes on a lot of the race meetings for the industry and that’s fantastic for wagering and for horse preparation and for metro-prizemoney but the Melbourne Racing Club is the one that wears that cost.”

There were no imminent plans for sale, he said.

An MRC spokesperson said: “The MRC will continue to consult transparently on its plans through each stage of the process as it works through them.”

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IN BRIEF Driver battered in Springvale

Pool ‘sham’ anger

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Greg Pargeter, right, and Sean Balfour, centre, were among the concerned residents at a pop-up consultation at Doveton Pool on 30 March. grade of the pool, bolstered by possible state and federal grants.

Casey Council also dismissed its own steering committee’s recommendation for an indoor pool and community hub created by Our Place and Doveton College.

Such an option would cost up to $40 million, according to the council.

Mr Balfour says: “We’re happy to have twoand-a-half pools with at least one under cover so we can have learn-to-swim lessons and lap swimming all year round.”

Casey council administrators withdrew a motion on 16 March to demolish the pool after being flooded by criticism and an opposing petition of more than 2000 signatures.

They instead opted for the seven-week community consultation, emphasising no decision had yet been made.

A tabled council report recommended an aquatic facility may not be a priority at the site.

Instead there was a shortage of district parkland in Doveton-Eumemmerring, it stated.

The report was based on expert assessments including visitor numbers, seasonal use, the pool’s age and operational and maintenance costs, the council stated.

Casey administrators chair Noelene Duff

said: “We acknowledge that there is a great deal of nostalgia associated with the pool.

“However we also know that a significant financial investment will be required at this site over the next few years.

“Therefore, it is important that we consider how the facility is being used today and what will bring the greatest benefit to the entire Casey community in the years to come.”

A Heritage Assessment and expert advice was commissioned to “ensure any proposed redevelopment is respectful of the site’s heritage”.

In the lead-up to the 16 March motion, DETA vigorously opposed the proposed pool closure.

Local MPs Julian Hill, Luke Donnellan and Gabrielle Williams had also voiced concerns.

After the meeting, DETA noted the council hadn’t ruled out an option of replacing the pool.

“We are confident that if a genuine community consultation is undertaken it will reiterate that the ‘No Pool’ proposal is not something the community wants or will accept,” DETA stated.

Public feedback is invited on the council’s Casey Conversations website until Friday 14 May Details: conversations.casey.vic.gov.au.

Hopes Covid food aid will be extended

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong Council is hopeful that its 200-tonne food relief program will be given a six-month lifeline but other Covid-19 support measures are set to wind up.

The food relief program for the council’s most vulnerable residents was introduced at the start of Covid shutdowns in March 2020, delivering up to 3500 food boxes a week.

A council spokesperson said there were “positive discussions” with the State Government to keep supporting material aid until the end of September.

“In addition to Material Aid Relief, the partnership could include working with and supporting community agencies on communication regarding Covid-19 and vacci-

nation for our diverse community.”

The possible lifeline coincides with the recent windup of the federal JobKeeper program, which is feared to put thousands of jobs at risk in the region.

However, the council has at this stage ruled out a repeat of rates waivers and commercial rent relief offered in 2020.

After spending nearly $20 million on Covid relief, the council ruled out further aid in its 2021-’22 budget, mayor Angela Long said.

“Pensioners got two lots (of $100 rates waivers) in two financial years automatically. If you were on Job Seeker, you could apply for $200 (rates) relief.

“We’ve spent a fairly significant amount of money in the last financial year to keep our employees employed.

A lawn mower ‘driver’ has been intercepted by police after driving on Perry Road in Keysborough.

The green John Deere ride-on travelled across the Dandenong Bypass and entered the Dandenong Bypass Trail on the evening of Monday 29 March, police say.

Dandenong Highway Patrol officers issued the driver a fine for driving an unregistered lawn mower on a highway.

“We’ve been very lucky in the council that we’ve kept all our employees in a job. It may not have been the same job, but they’re still in a job.”

Cr Long said the council would “play it by ear” if there were further lockdowns or hardships.

Ratepayers can still apply for relief under the council’s hardship policy.

The material aid program has delivered an estimated 200-plus tonnes of material aid in its first 12 months.

The council had pitched in $410,000 for the program, with businesses donating about $50,000 of goods.

Prior to the latest possible rescue grant, the State Government had contributed $350,000.

An unregistered lawnmower was intercepted by highway patrol police in Keysborough.

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A woman has died in hospital after a two-vehicle crash in Noble Park North.

Police say a white Honda Accord collided with a green Hyundai Lantra at the corner of Eagle Drive and Jacksons Road about 10.20am on Saturday 27 March.

An 81-year-old Noble Park North woman, who was a passenger in the Honda, was transported to hospital and later died.

The Honda driver - an 82-year-old Noble Park North man - was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

The driver of the Hyundai, a 35-year-old woman from Rowville, also received minor injuries.

Police are investigating the crash’s circumstances.

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

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A community group has slammed Casey Council’s “sham” public consultation about plans to demolish the historic Doveton Pool in the Park.

Doveton Eumemmerring Township Association (DETA) chair Sean Balfour said despite a large public outcry, the council appeared to have already decided to demolish the 53-yearold Olympic-sized outdoor pool.

The council’s $90,000 consultation features a draft concept plan that replaces the pool with parkland.

The plan suggests playgrounds, a water play splash-pad, barbecues and a group shelter on the site.

The council’s online survey excludes a pool from a long list of possible features on the site.

“It’s been a sham. The council has spent money to convince us we don’t need a pool,” Mr Balfour said.

“There’s no mention about how to keep the pool. They’re trying to skew the results.”

Greg Pargeter said a public consultation staged by the council’s consultants on the site on 30 March was barely promoted and so sparsely attended.

“The consultative meeting was not adequately advertised, relying solely on a posting buried within the Casey Council website.

“Alarmingly, the glossy posters of proposed development alternatives did not include the existing pools.

“The communication strategy to engage residents and interested parties in consultation is limited to a proposed restricted letter drop in the Doveton area.”

Mr Pargeter, son of the late Berwick Shire mayor Syd Pargeter who was a driving force in creating the Doveton pool, said it appeared to be a “sham” consultation with a “pre-determined outcome”.

Mr Balfour said the council had put aside its commitment in 2019 for a $24 million up-

A driver was allegedly bashed with a baseball bat during a carjacking in Springvale.

Police say the victim was attacked as he sat in his Honda CRV in Blissington Street about 6.30pm on Sunday 28 March.

One of the robbers reached into the car and stole the keys from the ignition. He then punched the driver in the face and tried to grab his phone.

The victim climbed out of the car’s passenger side. He was struck with a baseball bat by a male claiming to be a police officer.

One of the males drove off in the Honda.

The other drove away in a white ute with a hard-top canopy.

The victim was treated for non-critical injuries.

The first offender was described as Caucasian appearance, 25-30 years, 173 centimetres, medium build with a blond mullet.

He wore a camouflage hooded top, black shorts with a red stripe and tattoos on his right hand and right calf.

The second male was described as Caucasian with a moustache. He wore a grey top with black sleeves and hood, black pants and black shoes.

Greater Dandenong CIU investigators have publicly released images and CCTV. Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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PROPOSED FEDERAL ELECTORAL DIVISIONS RELEASED FOR VICTORIA The Redistribution Committee for Victoria has released proposed federal electoral divisions for Victoria.

PROPOSED FEDERAL ELECTORAL DIVISIONS Victoria’s entitlement has increased from 38 to 39 members of the House of Representatives.

The Redistribution Committee proposes altering the boundaries of the Divisions of Bruce and La Trobe such that: • the entirety of the localities of Dandenong, Dandenong North, Doveton, Endeavour Hills, Hallam, Harkaway, Lysterfield South, Narre Warren and Narre Warren North, as well as parts of the localities of Berwick, Dandenong South, Hampton Park, Mulgrave, Narre Warren South, Noble Park and Noble Park North, will be located in the proposed Division of Bruce.

These proposed alterations share the City of Casey among the proposed Divisions of Bruce, La Trobe, Holt and Isaacs. The proposed Division of Bruce will also contain part of the Greater Dandenong City Council, which is shared with the proposed Divisions of Hotham and Isaacs.

Hawke A new Division of Hawke, named in honour of the former Prime Minister, the Hon. Robert James Lee Hawke AC (1929–2019), is proposed to include electors from the local government areas of Hume City Council, Melton City Council and Moorabool Shire Council.

The Redistribution Committee proposes retaining the names of 37 of Victoria’s 38 existing electoral divisions and changing the name of one division.

Tucker The Redistribution Committee proposes changing the Division of Corangamite to Tucker in honour of Margaret (Lilardia) Elizabeth Tucker MBE (1904–1996), a Yorta Yorta woman, for her significant work to create a more equal and understanding society for Aboriginal people.

The Redistribution Committee also proposes changing the boundaries of 29 of Victoria’s existing electoral divisions.

HOW TO VIEW THE PROPOSAL Members of the public and organisations can inspect the full report of the Redistribution Committee, and maps showing the names and boundaries of proposed electoral divisions, at www.aec.gov.au/vic-redistribution This report contains detailed information regarding the proposed electoral divisions, including reasons for the proposal, and the Redistribution Committee’s consideration of all suggestions and comments on suggestions.

The report and maps can also be inspected at the office of the Australian Electoral Officer for Victoria at Level 1, Urban Workshop, 50 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, or at any AEC office in Victoria. The location of AEC offices is available on the AEC website or by phoning 13 23 26.

(Note: This inspection may be subject to any restrictions in place at the time or which come into operation. Advice about any restrictions will be available at www.aec.gov.au/news/covid-19.htm.)

• the proposed names of electoral divisions, • the proposed boundaries of electoral divisions, or • the proposed names and proposed boundaries of electoral divisions.

Objections can approve or disapprove of the Redistribution Committee’s proposal.

For further information and submission guidelines, go to www.aec.gov.au/vic-redistribution

COMMENTS ON OBJECTIONS All written objections received by the deadline will be made available for public inspection from Monday 19 April 2021 at www.aec.gov.au/vic-redistribution and at the office of the Australian Electoral Officer for Victoria (Level 1, Urban Workshop, 50 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne).

Members of the public can then lodge written comments on the objections up until 6pm AEST Friday 30 April 2021. Comments received after this time cannot be considered.

Comments on objections can support or disagree with objections to the proposed redistribution.

All comments on objections received by the deadline will be made available for public inspection from Monday 3 May 2021.

NEXT STEPS After considering the objections and comments on objections received, the augmented Electoral Commission may, if necessary, hold public hearings and/or make a revised proposal. In this case, the augmented Electoral Commission will consider any further objections before making a final determination of divisional boundaries and names in a notice published in the Commonwealth Government Notices Gazette on Monday 26 July 2021.

For further information about the Victorian federal redistribution, including an indicative timetable for the process, go to www.aec.gov.au/vic-redistribution Note: For information about the 2020–21 redivision of Victoria’s state electoral boundaries, please visit www.ebc.vic.gov.au/ This redivision is a separate process and is not related to federal parliament.

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Authorised by the Electoral Commissioner, 10 Mort Street, Canberra, ACT 12489641-NG15-21

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Silent e-bus revolution Are noisy, polluting buses coming to the end of the line?

Dandenong manufacturer Volgren unveiled four zero-emission electric buses rolling off its production line on 30 March.

And they rolled off near silently. Without the customary diesel engine noise, the only sounds are the rumbles of tyres and wind sweeping past the bus’s frame.

The Victorian-built buses with 87 per cent local content are touted as a milestone for a clean, green and local bus manufacturing industry.

They were on order from bus operator Transdev Australasia.

Transdev Australasia chief executive Luke Agati said Australia was “on the cusp of an emobility revolution in public transport”.

“For Transdev, it is our global experience paired with local ingenuity that is driving our charge towards the introduction of new zeroemissions fleets across our networks.

“We want to see more Australians travelling on zero-emissions electric and hydrogen powered buses.

“And we want Australian bus manufacturers to lead the journey with us, so communities like Dandenong benefit through more investment in local businesses and more local jobs.”

Transdev - in partnership with Volgren - has so far delivered five new electric buses to Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane.

Mr Agati said supporting local jobs was a major factor in partnering with Volgren, which employs 172 Victorians directly and indirectly.

“Manufacturing future fleet in industry provides greater employment in our cities and regions, particularly for those with a disability or who are in priority job seeker groups.

“This is so important as we rebuild our economy post-Covid.”

Volgren chief executive Thiago Deiro says

Finishing touches are applied to an electric bus at Volgren’s factory in Dandenong. 232607 the company had made an “internal zeroemission transition” on the back of Transdev’s faith shown in Volgren.

In November 2019, Transdev bought and delivered Victoria’s first electric bus, which is now operating on the Melbourne metro network.

“The first e-bus delivered to Transdev gave us the knowledge and know-how to adjust not only our product but also our production facilities,” Mr Deiro said.

“All that learning resulted in a much more efficient design and building process.”

Mr Deiro said each electric bus used 80 Victorian suppliers equating to 87 per cent local production.

Australian Industry Group state head Tim Piper said there was cause for optimism in the emerging zero-emissions bus-making industry.

“We have an established bus manufacturing industry in Australia, with companies like Volgren which are internationally competitive and forward looking,” Mr Piper said.

“The wave of investment in zero-emissions buses ahead can drive innovation and strengthen the local industry, creating much needed jobs and a range of opportunities to upskill the existing workforce.”

Volgren CEO Thiago Diero, Transdev’s Ian Craig and Emma Duncan, Vince Pepi (AMWU) and Billy Pictures: GARY SISSONS McLeod (TWU). 232607

Four Dandenong-made electric buses set to be delivered. 232607

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NEWS

Victorian Men’s Shed Association president Lindsay Oates visited the shed on 26 March.

Picture: SUPPLIED

Keysborough Men’s Shed chair Geoff Wright with members Ron Saunders, Jim Wilkinson and Ken Nicholson. 229369 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

Shedding social isolation

By Cam Lucadou-Wells For some, the intense isolation felt during Covid hard lockdowns isn’t a passing phase.

Keysborough Mens Shed is making a callout for homebound single men to join the camaraderie of its weekly get-togethers, says chair Geoff Wright.

During lockdown its 40-strong members had sharply missed a social outlet.

By necessity, their shed off Loxwood Avenue in Keysborough Community Park was closed for close to a year.

“The time away from the shed due to it being closed has caused small problems,” Mr Wright said.

“But by getting together again, it has helped all of us.”

Each Friday, members tinker in the workshop, chat over a cuppa or mow the lawn outside. A $5 lunch is also set to return.

Sometimes they’re painting wooden toys with people with a disability from The Bridge in Noble Park.

Mr Wright said the shed provides tools for tinkering but also for mental health.

It simply aims to keep its members happy, to provide care and companionship one another.

“This is important from my point of view because living by yourself is stressful.

“We can get together and help sort each other’s problems out, or point people towards services that can help.

“A talk and a cuppa is available each Friday.

If that can save a life, then the shed is worthwhile for all of us.”

He says the shed has plenty of success stories. Men who have been helped back on track.

Sponsorship and funding has however dried up, with some of the shed’s key supporters hitting hard times in Covid.

Files and electric drill bits are also needed.

To join or to support the shed, contact Geoff Wright on 0415 066 170 or geoffnyinny@ gmail.com

Ken Nicholson, front, with Jim Wilkinson in the shed’s workshop. 229369 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS

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Off-track but victorious

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Against the odds, members from a cycling club without a home have emerged as dual state champions.

Noble Park Dandenong Cycling Club members Ryan Koroknai, David Koroknai and Callum Porritt won gold in the team sprint and team pursuit events at the Victorian Club Teams Championships on Sunday 28 March.

It was the first state titles competition for the trio as well as for their club since its rebirth in 2018.

David Koroknai, who is club vice-president, helped re-form the club during a passionate but doomed campaign to save Maurice Kirby Velodrome in Parkfield Reserve.

Without a cycling facility, the club holds weekly group rides on roads, either a 30-kilometre loop through Dandenong and Endeavour Hills or a 70-kilometre Beach Road ride.

Many local riders used cycling tracks in Edithvale, Carnegie and Blackburn.

After the Covid lockdown - and cycling boom - heavier traffic had returned.

“Many people do not feel safe riding with their children on the busy roads.

“This has increased the demand for a club facility which would provide safe, all-weather training opportunities as Winter fast approaches.”

Mr Koroknai said a local velodrome would provide a safe off-road training facility as well as opportunities for a junior cycling program with pathways to state and national level.

“It would also provide a safe environment to those who wish to gain cycling skills, improve fitness or enjoy riding their bike with friends.”

Any hopes for a regional velodrome in the South East were deflated in 2020 after Greater Dandenong Council failed to secure a State grant to create a Regional Cycling Strategy.

Dual state champs Ryan Koroknai, David Koroknai, Callum Porritt at the Victorian Club Teams Championships at Darebin International Sports Centre velodrome.

Picture: MARK GEARY “As the grant for this funding was not successful, the joint Councils have not identified and progressed this strategy as a regional priority,” Greater Dandenong community services director Martin Fidler said.

Push for Dandenong South toxic health study

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong councillor Jim Memeti is proposing a high-level taskforce to urgently investigate human health impacts posed by Dandenong South’s toxic industry zone.

Cr Memeti said there were long-held community concerns of higher than normal birth deformities, infertility and breathing problems in Dandenong South.

In the past year, Keysborough South residents have complained of noxious stenches and an impending waste-to-energy plant in Ordish Road.

“First as a councillor I want to protect the community,” Cr Memeti said.

“We’ve got to make the community feel safe.

“Living near an industrial 2 zone is clearly harmful. Many companies are doing the right thing, but there are some that aren’t - that’s not just here but in Australia and around the world.

“Let’s do the work and do an investigation so we’ve got it writing and got the proper evidence.”

Cr Memeti recently proposed the council lobby the State Government to rezone the industrial 2 zone - one of only two in the state.

In a future notice of motion, the fourtime mayor proposes the state’s Department of Health and the Environment Protection Authority form a human health taskforce.

The group would also include councillors, council executive, DWELP and state and federal MPs. It would set the parameters for an investigation to report on air and water emission levels and their impact on nearby residents.

The expert recommendations would be directly reported to the council.

He said the council’s Make Your Move physical activity strategy identified the need for “active transport” facilities including walking and cycling paths to work, public transport connections and schools.

“A mid-point review of the City of Greater Dandenong Cycling Strategy will occur later this year, taking into consideration the Make Your Move Strategy, and further updates will be provided at this stage.”

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HELLO! I’m Danny, Suez toxic waste dump in Lyndhurst is part of the controversial industry 2 zone. 228738 Picture: GARY SISSONS In 2011, a health department report - at the behest of Greater Dandenong - investigated a possible cluster of cancers and birth defects in the area.

Cr Memeti said the report - which found no clusters - was flawed.

Its survey catchment included suburbs such as Dandenong North - which were well beyond the impact zone.

It failed to take account of readings from an EPA air monitoring program which was on line the following year.

Further, the findings weren’t presented in much detail to the public or the council, Cr Memeti said.

Since then, industries such as waste processing and recycling had intensified in the zone - which is also home to the state’s only toxic waste dump.

“Residents have raised this with me so many times. They say they don’t feel safe.

“I want a report that’s more open and transparent.

“Hopefully something like this will give them peace of mind.”

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• Dandenong Coles Express 61-65 Cheltenham Road • Dandenong United Service Station (Pie Face) 100 Cheltenham Road • Dandenong Dandy Mart 17 Cleeland Street • Dandenong Dandenong Market 40 Cleeland Street • Dandenong Dandenong RSL 44-50 Clow Street • Dandenong India Bazaar 77 Foster Street • Dandenong Dandenong Oasis Heatherton Road & Cleeland Street • Dandenong Dandenong IGA 78-84 Hemmings Street • Dandenong Dandenong Neighbourhood House 34 King Street • Dandenong Well Springs for Women 79 Langhorne Street • Dandenong Remax Real Estate Shop 14, 30-32 Langhorne Street • Dandenong Bestway Supermarket 200-208 Lonsdale Street • Dandenong City of Greater Dandenong 225 Lonsdale Street • Dandenong Creston Real Estate 264 Lonsdale Street • Dandenong Hall & Partners First National 254 Lonsdale Street • Dandenong Drum Theatre Lonsdale Street & Walker Street • Dandenong Dandenong Plaza 23-55 McCrae Street • Dandenong Coles Supermarket 23-55 McCrae Street (Dandenong Plaza) • Dandenong Rockyz Mini Mart 10 Princes Highway • Dandenong LH Fresh Supermarket 169 Princes Highway • Dandenong Caltex Dandenong 154-156 Princes Highway • Dandenong Coles Supermarket Dandenong 23-26 Princes Highway • Dandenong Genesis Fitness Club Dandenong 63 Scott Street • Dandenong Valley Village Mews 112 Stud Road • Dandenong Dandenong Basketball Stadium 270 Stud Road • Dandenong Caltex Star Mart Stud Road & Heatherton Road • Dandenong Dandenong Lotto 308 Thomas Street • Dandenong Gulistan Supermarket 187-189 Thomas Street • Dandenong Quest Hotel 2-Oct Walker Street • Dandenong McLennan Real Estate First floor, 126 Walker Street • Dandenong North Foodworks Dandenong North 42-44 Brady Road

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NEWS

‘Bleak’ prospects: judge

By Cam Lucadou-Wells An Endeavour Hills former pest-controller has been jailed for trafficking more than 70 grams of meth in his car - which proved just the start of an 18-month offending spree.

Timothy Paul, 31, pleaded guilty to trafficking, possession of 12 ecstasy tablets and weapons charges at the Victorian County Court.

When intercepted in his car about 2am in October 2018, Paul told police he was picking up a car part, according to an agreed prosecution summary.

“You’re telling me you’ve come from Point Cook to pick up a part for the car when nothing

is open at this time of the night and you have no reason for being in Glen Iris,” a police officer told him at the time.

Police searched Paul’s unregistered Mazda, seizing a notebook with trafficking-related “correspondence” as well as five plastic bags carrying a total of 72.9 grams ‘ice’.

It was more than 24 times the minimum traffickable amount of 3 grams, sentencing judge Chris Ryan noted on 29 March.

The crystals - being analysed at between 79 and 80 per cent purity - were equivalent to 58 grams of pure ice.

This was above than the 50-gram minimum amount for a commercial traffickable offence,

Judge Ryan said.

During a police raid of Paul’s home, 12 tablets of ecstasy, a taser, laser, extendable baton and a machete were also seized.

At the time, Paul had no criminal priors.

However by the time of sentence two years later, he was already serving a 23 month jail term with a minimum 13-month non-parole period for an offending spree in 2019 and 2020.

The offences included drug trafficking, disqualified driving, car theft, weapons and bail offences, as well as a breach of a community corrections order.

“The effect of your subsequent offending is that it impacts on an assessment of your reha-

bilitation, which I regard as bleak,” Judge Ryan said.

Paul had worked for more than a decade in pest control.

The single dad was said to have been deeply impacted by a relationship breakdown and a friend’s overdose in 2018.

He suffered persistent, major depression, as well as disorders associated with sedatives and stimulants.

Judge Ryan jailed Paul for a “short, sharp” six months on top of the current jail term.

Paul’s current non-parole period was effectively put on hold until the end of the six months.

Gym set to take shape Works have started on a new gymnasium as part of the stage 1 revamp of Noble Park Aquatic Centre.

The two-storey, 600-square-metre Health and Wellbeing Gymnasium includes personal and group training areas, dedicated female, male and accessible change areas, a social space, offices as well as after-hours access.At a first-sod-turning on 29 March, Greater Dandenong mayor Angela Long said the gym will have a “positive impact” on participation levels, community health and NPAC’s bottom line.

“From spin classes and weight training to gentle exercise and social community spaces this facility will have something for everyone.”

Labor state MP Tien Kieu MP, representing Community Sport Minister Ros Spence, said the “landmark local project” would allow more people of all ages and abilities to keep fit and have fun at NPAC.

Ms Spence said the investment supported the local economy and job creation, as well as growing numbers of residents taking part in sport and rec.

“We know that better sport and recreation facilities make it easier for Victorians to lead healthy and active lifestyles.”

The gym’s design has been incorporated to the “look and feel” of the existing NPAC. The council received a $3.3 million State Government stimulus grant for the $6.7 million project.

Subject to Covid-19 restrictions, indoor and outdoor pools will remain open during the construction period.

However, access to the south-east end of the building will be restricted.

Construction company Melbcon Pty Ltd have been appointed to the project.

The gym is expected to open in early 2022.

Angela Long and state MP Tien Kieu turn the first sod to start works on the new NPAC gym.

EVERY TEST HELPS US PROTECT EVERYTHING WE’VE ACHIEVED 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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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 6 April, 2021

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STAR JOURNAL 9

NEWS

Vet’s pillars of support

By Cam Lucadou-Wells After Covid’s sullen lockdowns, the jokes and laughter have returned for a hardy group of Vietnam veterans at Noble Park RSL. Each Thursday vets from across the state gather, catching up for light banter, meat raffles and drinks.

The banter subsides for the centrepiece of the day - a service remembering their fallen comrades.

It’s a roll call of those who died in combat, aged in their 30s, their 20s and teens, in just that week of the year.

A minute’s silence is spent. Heads bowed towards a white-lit cross, hanging high on the clubroom’s far wall with the words Lest We Forget.

Today, a visibly moved stalwart Gary Willits is awarded an RSL life membership. He served in 1968, lucky to survive when a landmine exploded under the tank he rode in.

Many of the group are like him, Gold Card holders with a total and permanent injury (TPI).

He pays tribute to the Noble Park RSL’s welfare office as one of the best in the state.

“They look after us, guide us through to the right doctors, the right psychiatrists.

“We’re like a hub - of all the guys that have got problems.”

A Noble Park legend and Thursday regular is 90-year-old retired commando Captain Don Bergman OAM. With a ready smile and stream of conversation, he has left a lasting mark on the club such as his self-made tables embossed in military medals and memorabilia.

On display are his hand-carvings the Shrine of Remembrance and the Menin Gates.

They’re made from a fallen Lone Pine sourced from Gallipoli.

“It’s like any organisation. It’s the people who make the club,” he says.

Sub-branch president and senior welfare pensions officer John Meehan says a lot of the hearty banter is a front. He’s got a wary eye on members who stop coming in or look in trouble.

It was especially important during the isolation of Covid lockdown when Mr Meehan says “the birds in the backyard were calling me by my first name”.

One of the officers made regular welfare checks while delivering donated food and books. Others worked the phones.

On their return from the Vietnam War, veterans were the unwanted, Mr Meehan says.

“The army didn’t want us, the government didn’t want us and even the RSL didn’t want us in those days.”

Ironically the RSLs are now largely run by Vietnam veterans. But they are struggling to reach a younger generation of veterans from 21st century conflicts.

“We know these kids coming home need to be looked after. And we need them to reinvigorate and keep the RSLs going.

“We are probably OK for the next five years but we’re all getting older.”

Mr Meehan has seen “terrible bursts” of veteran suicides. He says there should be a Royal

Mates pay silent tribute to the fallen in front of an illuminated cross.

Don Bergman at the honor board, which features himself, his son and other relatives.

RSL welfare officers John Pilkington and Liz Brown.

RSL sub-branch president John Meehan and welfare officer Michael North.

Gary Willits with his life membership badge.

Don Bergman at one of the several tables he’s made for the club.

Commission into the support of returned veterans and their transition to civilian life.

“If you’re going to send kids up to war zones, you’re going to expect they’re knocked around and damaged.

“There has to be a stream in which we can really mentor these kids and really follow them all the way through.”

Mr Meehan says Anzac Day in 2020 was a “fairly dull feeling” - just half-a-dozen diehards in the RSL car park due to Covid restrictions.

This year, the club will invite members with a hope that it may still stage a march.

“It’ll be a chance to see blokes we haven’t seen for more than 12 months. With a lot in their seventies, you wonder how much longer they’ll keep coming.”

Noble Park RSL’s Anzac Day service is on from 11am on 18 April.

Comrades at the weekly Thursday ceremony at Noble Park RSL

WHAT’S ON Garden stall Maralinga Community Garden Inc will hold a stall at Keysborough’s Big Picnic, selling potted plants, worm tea fertilizer and compost to raise funds for ongoing administrative costs.

Garden lovers are welcome to visit the MCG Inc stall to find out more about this local community project and sign up on the data base.

Sunday 11 April 11am-3pm at Wachter Reserve, Keysborough

·

Noble Park reunion People 65-and-over who have lived in Noble Park are invited to a reunion at Club Noble.

Saturday 10 April from 5pm at Club Noble, Moodemere Street, Noble Park. For bookings or to go on a mailing list for future reunions, contact Dawn Vernon, 0407 325 030

cal hero in A Tribute to Roy Orbison, plus Strings.

Leith will be backed by a string quartet - 50 years on from the release of Orbison’s song Only The Lonely.

Saturday 10 April at Drum Theatre, Dandenong. Details: www.drum.greaterdandenong. vic.gov.au

·

Art of Soul workshop Enjoy the journey of your creativity in a safe environment. We use a variety of media and follow Aviva Gold’s book - Painting from the Source.

This isn’t a class, it is people coming together to ‘play’. All welcome.

Wednesdays 11.30am - 1.30pm at The Open Door, 110 Ann St, Dandenong. Suggested donation: $5. Details: Jo or Tayla on 9791 8664 or theopendoor@ssjg.org.au

·

·

Big O tribute

Outdoor cinema

Singer Damien Leith pays homage to his musi-

Free and family-friendly outdoor cinema is set to

10 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 6 April, 2021

return on Friday nights in Greater Dandenong.

The Open Air Movies nights alternate each week between Springvale and Harmony Square in Dandenong until mid-April.

Registrations are required.

Patrons are advised to bring a rug or a chair.

Some chairs are provided.

Details: www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ open-air-movies

·

Floral art Flora is a series of exhibitions, programs and events across the City of Greater Dandenong, offering new perspectives and renewing our wonder for the plant world.

It is staged across Greater Dandenong including Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve, Connection Art Space and the Garnar Lane Display Boxes.

·

Thursday 25 March - Saturday 1 May at multiple sites. Details: www.greaterdandenong. vic.gov.au/flora

Mens Shed re-opens Keysmen Shed is place for men to talk, joke, work, play and socialise in a fully-equipped kitchen and workshop.

New members welcome.

Fridays 9am-1.30pm behind Keysborough Learning Centre, Caribbean Drive, Keysborough. BYO lunch.

·

Historical Society Dandenong Historical Society Rooms have reopened on Wednesdays but are not permitted to have visitors or researchers until further notice.

We are currently working through a backlog of messages and tasks. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Kevin and Shabir race Sphero BOLT robots.

Year 3 students Sienna, Meriem and Selim stage a science experiment.

Roll out the robots A science-and-technology centre equipped with rolling robots has been launched at Dandenong South Primary School.

Students drove the Sphero BOLT robots through obstacle courses, and staged science experiments during the opening of the Discovery Centre on 30 March.

They will practise skills such as basic coding using the robots, as well as conduct investigations in the centre.

Dandenong South Primary principal Leonie Fitzgerald said the aim was to foster critical and design thinking, creativity and collaboration.

“Fostering these skills in students at our school, who come from predominantly low socio-economic backgrounds, has a profound impact on their future career pathways.”

Dandenong South dairy manufacturer

Chobani donated the robots as well as notebook computers for the centre.

Ms Fitzgerald said Chobani’s support was “instrumental” in expanding its science facilities.

“While we are constantly looking for new ways to develop our programs, finding the funding to purchase new resources is always challenging.”

Chobani managing director Lyn Radford said it was “thrilling” for the centre to “come to life”.

“Being able to provide students with access to the tools necessary to engage in learning and expand their minds has been extremely rewarding.”

For the past eight years, Chobani has provided yoghurt and fresh fruit for the school’s Breakfast Club each morning.

Year 6 student Nazaneen and Chobani general marketing manager Damian Young program Lego Mindstorm.

Year 3 students Ahsan and Adel conduct science experiments in the Discovery Centre.

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Tuesday, 2 February, 2021

Keysborough’s Big Picnic returns on Sunday 11 April.

DANDENONG

Open-air fun at Big Picnic

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

ment, country-style games and free children’s activities, there is something for everyone.”

In the Make Your Move Zone, sports clubs are hosting free handball-target competitions, climb and slide activities and gym try-out areas.

The council is aiming to eliminate single-use and soft plastic in events. It encourages attendees to bring their own drink bottles, reusable utensils and reusable shopping bags.

“I am happy to see our exciting events up and running again. Please remember to practice social distancing and good hand hygiene,” Cr Long said.

Keysborough’s Big Picnic is at Frederick Wachter Reserve, 133-155 Kingsclere Ave, Keysborough on Sunday 11 April, 11am3.30pm.

Details: greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ keysie-big-picnic

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Living treasures named

Oasis marks 30 years

The Dry actor in profile

City’s historic clash

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Oasis marks 30 years

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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

City’s top citizen

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

NOW OPEN

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.

The not-for-profit provides mental health

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“,

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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The annual Keysborough’s Big Picnic returns to Wachter Reserve on Sunday 11 April.

Bring your picnic blankets and chairs to enjoy the cuisine on offer at food stalls and trucks such as BBQ skewers, falafels and ice-cream.

Easter egg hunts for kids, circus acts, live music and performances by local dance studios and sports clubs are part of the free action-packed program.

For pet owners and animal lovers, try the pet photobooth, visit the animal farm and wildlife display or join your dog in the Very Doggy Easter Egg hunt.

Greater Dandenong mayor Angela Long said the picnic was about bringing people together.

“Big Picnic is a great opportunity to make the most of this wonderful open space.

“Whether you want to share a meal with family and friends, or enjoy live entertain-

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STAR JOURNAL 11

FOCUS ON … EASTER HOLIDAYS

Family fun at the circuit The Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Visitor Centre and Go Karts is a destination for the whole family with many hours of entertainment and enjoyment on offer and these school holidays are the perfect time to visit.

Go Karts and Tandems If you haven’t tried the exhilarating Go Karts then you need to strap yourself into the allnew Sodi Karts for a thrilling session on the 750-meter track - a replica of the world-renowned Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

With 9 horsepower Honda GX 270cc engines, the French-made karts provides an ultimate karting sensation and are tested to meet the stringent Australian standards.

The RT8 Evo2 single karts can reach up to 65k/mph and feature a high front blade for greater safety and a roll bar with all-round protection to avoid wheel-to-wheel contact.

The harness seatbelt and easy to use seat adjusters allow for greater comfort and custom fitting.

The 2Drive tandem karts allow the whole family to get involved as the twin seats provide children the thrill of go karting. The dual steering allows children to get involved while under the safety and supervision of an adult driver.

Bookings are recommended.

Grand Prix Motorcycle Collection at the Circuit The star exhibit in the History of Motorsport Display is the superb collection of 25 Grand Prix winning motorcycles from the two famous Italian marques, Aprilia and Cagiva, with the two-wheel treasures permanently installed in the display at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit Visitor Centre.

In total these sleek racing machines have won 9 World Championships, 51 Grand Prix wins and 106 Podiums. Make the time these

Go Karts wind around an exhilarating 750 metre replica of the GP circuit. holidays to take in these magnificent pieces of racing history.

Champions Cafe After all the excitement, the Champions Licenced Cafe delivers with its fresh menu with plenty of choices. Fantastic coffee and delicious scones, cakes, slices, muffins, pastries, sausage rolls and pies hit the spot Merchandise The gift shop at the Visitor Centre offers a wide selection of stylish apparel, merchandise and souvenirs to choose from so you can take a memento home with you.

Covid-19 operating conditions Due to current restrictions Guided Circuit Tours, Hot Laps and Push Bike Ride Days will not be available.

For further information call 5952 9400 or visit www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au and www.phillipislandgokarts.com.au

Take a friend and have double the fun.

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FOCUS ON … EASTER HOLIDAYS

Ideas to keep kids busy

By Melissa Grant Are you wondering how you are going to keep the kids entertained over the school holidays?

Don’t fret - we are here to help!

Here are 12 ideas to help Casey and Cardinia families fill in some days over the long summer holiday break!

ADRENALINE RUSH Gumbuya World For an epic school holiday adventure, head to Gumbuya World.

Take the plunge on epic water slides, spin out on awesome rides and say hello to Pebble, the park’s baby koala on The Wildlife Trail!

All tickets must be purchased via the website beforehand, with no tickets available at the entrance.

The park is open from 10am till 4pm.

Gumbuya World is located at 2705 Princes Highway Tynong.

For tickets or more information, visit https://gumbuya.com.au/ Go Karting On Phillip Island Get the kids adrenaline pumping at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

The circuit’s smooth curves and super-fast straight of the unique track are along some of the most breathtaking coastline on the Island.

Children from the age of 12 (and at least 140cm tall) can drive the single karts, while kids from the age of 5 (and at least 100cm tall) can be a passenger in the tandem karts with an adult driver over 18 years (and 140cm tall) .

Open 7 days a week; Monday - Friday 12pm4pm, and Saturday and Sunday 9am- 5pm.

All visitors must pre-book their session by calling 03 5952 9400.

More info at phillipislandgokarts.com.au PLAYGROUNDS Variety Livvi’s Place, Clyde Water sensory zones, quiet spaces and a flight deck are among the cool features of this new all abilities playground.

The playground has been specifically built with consideration given to children and families living with autism.

Play and behavioural child development experts helped design the park.

It features water sensory zones, quiet spaces and themed zones - to help children on the spectrum to find calmness in a busy play space. You’ll also find slides, swings, toilets and a shaded BBQ area.

The playground is located at the corner of Merribrook Boulevard and Caribbean Circuit, Clyde (in Stockland’s Edgebrook estate) Deep Creek Reserve, Pakenham Pack lunch and some togs and head to Deep Creek Reserve.

This state-of-the art park features an allabilities playground, sand and water play area, shelters and barbecues, sensory gardens, toilet facilities and a large car park.

You’ll find the park at the end of Cameron Way, Pakenham.

Variety Livvi’s Place in Clyde.

Grand Prix Park, Clyde North Grand Prix Park features a racetrack that’s perfect for kids to ride around on their bikes, scooters and rollerblades.

The playground also has swings, tube slide and a zipline.

There are BBQ facilities and plenty of space for a picnic.

However, there are no toilets and shaded areas are minimal.

Grand Prix Park is located on Skylark Boulevard, Berwick Waters Estate (Clyde North) Casey Fields Regional Playground A huge slide is the focal point of this adventure playground that has equipment for kids big and small.

The big blue slide is on ‘adventure hill’, which also features a bird nest swing and climbing areas.

There is also a large pirate ship play structure and another playground that’s great for younger kids.

The picturesque playground has six-metre high climbing net and rope bridge and climbing mounds and net bridges.

There is also a liberty swing for kids who use wheelchairs, plus a village green community space.

With barbecue, toilet and picnic facilities, the playground is a great spot for gatherings.

The playground is located at Berwick-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne East PICNIC SPOTS Wilson Botanic Park Pack a picnic blanket and head to Wilson Botanic Park.

The kids will love looking for the ducks and turtles in the picturesque lake. There’s also walking trails around the lake - perfect for a late afternoon stroll!

There are plenty of picnic sites to choose from. There are also BBQs, toilet facilities and a playground.

Watch out for the resident snakes!

You’ll find Wilson Botanic Park at 668 Princes Highway, Berwick Emerald Park Lake Take the kids on a stroll around Emerald Park Lake. Pack a picnic blanket and enjoy a bite while you overlook the stunning lake.

Go karting on Phillip Island.

The huge slide at Casey Fields Regional Playground.

Make a splash at Gumbuya World.

The paddle boats are operating, while the model railway and cafe are also open.

The park boasts two playgrounds.

Fishing is also permitted at the lake, which is restocked with rainbow trout throughout the year.

Emerald Lake Road, Emerald Lysterfield Lake Renowned as one of the best lakes to swim at in Victoria, Lysterfield Lake is a great spot for families.

The waters are gentle with a gradual increase in depth and there’s so much to explore.

You can go canoeing or kayaking or even try stand-up paddle boarding.

If you feel like a walk, you can hit the lake circuit trail where you may spot a kangaroo.

The park has two picnic areas which both have toilets, picnic tables and free BBQs. More info https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/ places-to-see/parks/lysterfield-park/attractions/lysterfield-lake SOMETHING DIFFERENT Book A Tour At Rayner’s Orchard The kids will love touring Rayner’s Orchard.

With eight varieties of fruit to try on every tour, there’s sure to be something that tickles their fancy.

You will be guided through the orchard with lots of fruit and interesting and entertaining facts along the way.

Book your U-Pick tractor tour Online at www.raynersorchard.com.au or call 59647654 You’ll find Rayner’s Orchard at 60 Schoolhouse Road Woori Yallock. Open 7 days 9am4pm.

Little Wonders Penguin Parade Phillip Island is home to one of the largest Little Penguin colonies in the world, which you can enjoy any night of the year from Penguin Parade viewing platforms. For tickets and more information, visit www.penguins.org.au Free Kids Rides On Melbourne Star The Melbourne Star Observation Wheel is offering free kids rides over the holidays.

From Friday, 2 April 2021 – Sunday, 18 April 2021, you get a complimentary children’s ticket with every full price ticket purchased.

Open daily from 11am – 9:30pm. . For tickets and more information, visit https://melbournestar.com/.

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STAR JOURNAL 13

LOOKING BACK 100 years ago 7 April 1921 The Bohemian Company The Bohemian Dramatic Coy. intend visiting Dandenong again; and will play at the Town Hall on Saturday April 9, when “The power of love“ will be staged. The company will also give performances on the following Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday evenings when a change of program will be made each night.

This company has always commanded a “full house“ here, and their many patrons will doubtless be pleased to learn of the return visit. The box plan may be seen at Griffith’s opp the Town hall, where reserved seats can be booked.

50 years 5 April 1971

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

First step taken to resite market In its application for loans towards a $606,000 works program in 1971-72, Dandenong City Council has allowed for the first phase of resiting the produce market, while ear-marking funds for later erection of a library building and improvements to the municipal baths. Towards its intention of moving the produce market away from Dandenong’s busiest intersection, work is planned for a new construction at the King St end. To roof and heat the existing baths on the highway, $60,000 is sought as part cost of the project.

20 years ago 2 April 2001 My Pledge After surviving the killing fields of Cambodia, Youhorn Chea led his family on a long, dangerous walk to freedom. He had seen his

parents, three brothers and two sisters die under the murderous Pol Pot regime and after escaping to Thailand came to Australia as a refugee. Last week, the Cambodian refugee celebrated his 60th birthday by becoming the first Asian mayor of Greater Dandenong and the first Cambodian-born mayor in Australia. “Many important issues face our city this year, including the implementation of council’s three year drug strategy, and work on a range of projects to combat crime and improve personal safety,“ he said

5 years ago 4 April 2016 UFO in the air If mobile phones had been in the hands of frenzied Westall High School students in 1966, who knows how Dandenong Journal reporter Des Carroll may have covered one of

the world’s most enduring UFO mysteries. Fifty years on, Mr Carroll’s conspiratorial stories of up to three silver flying objects hovering and vanishing from the skies above a paddock beside the Clayton South school, which 100 people saw in broad daylight remain unanswered. There were, however no photos or videos of the awesome event and nothing more elaborate than a hand drawing of a flying saucer shape that graced the Journal’s front page at the time. The official explanation proffered was that it was just a weather balloon. But Mr Carroll extracted vivid eyewitness descriptions of these objects which pointed to something more strange - despite the media clampdown by defence department authorities and a “terrified“ school principal.

Teacher Andrew Greenwood described to Mr Carroll at the time that the saucer was playing “cat and mouse” with pursuing aircraft.

OPINION

Holi festival adds colour

By Luxmy Sivarasa of the Hindu tradition Hindus celebrate a number of festivals throughout the year.

The main purpose of celebrations is to create a special atmosphere, focus on spiritual matters, and avert malicious influences to renew and purify the society.

Festivals can last for a few days to weeks.

Each day has its own significance and set of rituals.

A handful of festivals are celebrated by Hindus who live in Victoria, Australia and that has been acknowledged by the wider community and the government. Indeed, Holi festival was celebrated recently on 28 and 29 March

by Hindus as we slowly come out of the pandemic.

It has been celebrated in the Indian subcontinent for centuries, marking the beginning of Spring, symbolic of the triumph of good over evil.

Even though there are many versions of stories in ancient Indian literature for Holi, the commonly accepted story is that an evil king became vigorous and forced people to worship him as God. However, his son Prahlada, who was a devotee of Hindu deity Lord Vishnu, continued to worship God Vishnu.

The angry king along with his sister Holika planned to kill Prahlada.

MESSAGE OF

HOPE Holika, who is immune to fire, deceived Prahlada to sit in a pyre with her.

When the fire was lit, Lord Vishnu helped Prahlada to walk away and Holika was burned to death despite her immunity.

From Holika, the festival derives its name “Holi”.

On the day of Holi, people throw red, green, blue and yellow colored powder into the air and splash them on others.

Red symbolizes love and fertility, green denotes new beginnings, blue represents the Hindu God Krishna and yellow represents the native turmeric powder, which is often used as home remedy.

Holi powder is made of cornstarch and food colors.

No Hindu festival is complete without sweets, so devotees will distribute home-made sweets to family and friends.

May this festival of colors fill colors in your life. This Holi, may you be blessed with happiness and good health.

Athol Road Primary students ran the colour-powder gauntlet. 230372

Run through rainbows Bright clouds of rainbow dust electrified Athol Road Primary School students in a colourful fundraiser on 26 March.

In its Colour Explosion School Fun Run, students made a dash as they were coated in non-toxic, biodegradable colour powder.

The school aimed to raise $4000 for sports equipment for recess and lunch playtimes.

As well, the key idea was to “bring everyone together - after so many restrictions - and celebrate as a school community”, a spokesperson said.

“We really just wanted the students to have some fun and have an opportunity to be outdoors in a safe, carefree and happy environment.”

Clean T-shirts at the start of the Colour Explosion Fun Run. 230372 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

A rainbow warrior. 230372

Rinse on the run. 230372

Luxmy Sivarasa 14 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 6 April, 2021

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FOCUS ON … REAL ESTATE

EXECUTIVE LIVING IN BUNYIP DESIGNED for luxury and comfort, showcasing open plan living and individual space. The home covers approx. 54 squares under roofline and 40 squares of total living.

Four bedrooms plus study, master bedroom with large walk-in robe and ensuite, family bathroom, open plan kitchen with walk in pantry, dining/living area, theatre room, rumpus room and downstairs powder room.

Features include: gas ducted heating, evaporative cooling, ducted vacuuming stainless kitchen appliances, alfresco area, alarm system, two remote double garages one with internal access, remote control front gate, fully fenced and lightly landscaped gardens on a private 1.2 acre block.

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HOME ESSENTIALS Address: 110 Wattletree Road, BUNYIP Description: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 4 garage Price: $1,300,000 - $1,400,000 Inspect: By appointment Contact: Dale Atkin, 0402 717 891, RAY WHITE REAL ESTATE, DROUIN, 5625 1033

GENERAL EXCELLENCE & MARKETING FIRST National Real Estate Finning was recognized for outstanding achievement at the national network’s General Excellence and Marketing Awards, held at Melbourne’s Grand Hyatt on Saturday night.

The awards recognise the achievements of First National’s Victoria and Tasmania agents throughout 2020. Winners are now competing for national General Excellence and Marketing Awards, which

will be announced at the network’s national convention in Canberra this May. First National Finning principal, Dean Tucker says the results show how tenaciously our staff adapted to the impacts of COVID-19 to continue delivering excellence for the agency’s customers.

‘Nothing beats hard work and a commitment to delivering for customers.

That is exactly what our staff delivered

throughout 2020’ Dean said.

At the awards presentation, First National Finning received the following awards: Property Management Elite Sales Department Elite Key staff members were also recognised for their individual performances: (Delete if inappropriate) Jason Brown received the Platinum award for Sales

· · ·

· Sarah Evans received the Silver award for Property Management · John Lauretta received the Silver award for

Sales Dean Tucker said the First National General Excellence and Marketing Awards are an important event as they as they encourage First National’s agents to aspire to an ongoing process of performance improvement that benefits customers. ●

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STAR JOURNAL 15

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Tuesday, 6 April, 2021

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STAR JOURNAL 17

SPORT

Panthers stunning upset

By Nicholas Creely Inspired by the great James Nanopoulos, Dandenong has put together a truly stunning Victorian Premier Cricket quarter finals performance on Saturday.

The Panthers - who finished seventh on the table - completely stunned second-placed Melbourne at the Albert Ground in beautiful conditions, bowling with tremendous discipline before holding their nerve with the bat and booking itself a semi-final showdown.

As he has done so remarkably well through his glittering career, Nanopoulos set the tone with the ball after Cam White and his starstudded Dees won the toss and elected to bat.

But ‘Nano’ had other ideas against an inform and dangerous batting group.

Bowling with his trademark stump-tostump line, the right-arm dynamo never strayed as the home side struggled to get going, quickly slumping to 4/24 and with White, Blake Thomson and Jack Prestwidge all key scalps back in the shed.

Some brief fight from Meyrick Buchanan (36) saw the Demons lift itself from 5/34 to 71, before Pete Cassidy (3/21) rummaged through the late order to have the home side completely stunned and with just 87 left to show for it.

Nanopoulos was sublime, bowling eight maidens in his 10 overs to snare figures of 3/7.

In white-ball cricket, that’s not only unheard of in regular circumstances, but in finals cricket, that’s at a whole new level.

He is within sights of a 40-wicket season for the Panthers, with 37 next to his name at an average of 12.

Cassidy was also at his consistent best to take three scalps, while Adam McMaster - who snared the key scalp of Dees skipper Cam White - also bowled well to net 2/26.

The Dees were never just going to hand the Panthers the victory.

After taking the most wickets in the competition during the regular season as a team, tension was palpable as champion openers Brett Forsyth and Tom Donnell fell in the opening two overs, with the Panthers 2/1 and urgently needing to spend some time at the crease to consolidate.

While Josh Slater (11) and Ed Newman (14) managed to knock a few around, the Panthers

James Nanopoulos was the star of the show for the Panthers on Saturday. 225949 fell to 4/31.

Then ‘Nano’ entered the Albert Ground, this time with bat in hand.

With Comrey Edgeworth (10) and Pete Cassidy (12 not out) in support, the great allrounder cooly slapped an unbeaten 38 not out, with five boundaries complementing his brilliant hand.

His knock was enough for the Panthers to

crawl across the line with five wickets left to spare.

It was a stunning day of results in the other matches - Fitzroy Doncaster (eighth) knocked over raging premiership favourites Carlton (first) at Princes Park, Geelong (fifth) got home in a thriller against St Kilda (fourth), while Prahran (third) thrashed Melbourne Uni (sixth).

The win for the Panthers sets up a semifinal clash against Geelong this Saturday, with

Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS the winner to take on Prahran or Fitzroy Doncaster in the grand final on 17 April.

Dandenong’s second XI also won its quarter time against Melbourne Uni at Shepley Oval by just one wicket, with Braden Taeuber (18 off 15 balls) the hero as the Panthers got home off the final ball of the match, while the thirds did enough to defeat Footscray at Windy Hill, with Lachlan MacCorquodale crunching 71 in the victory.

Kuro Kismet makes Launching Pad dreams come true

By Mick Floyd Weeks of meticulous planning paid dividends for Matt Clark when Kuro Kismet claimed the Launching Pad at Sandown Park last Thursday night.

Kuro Kismet was easy in the market despite impressive performances in both his heat and semi-final. But jumping from box 1 - his first career start in the red vest - Kuro Kismet stepped well enough to withstand the pressure from the outside boxes and hold his position through the first turn and hold the lead as his rivals came together.

Down the back, Kuro Kismet appeared to have opened a race winning break over Destruction however turning for home, favourite Aston Rupee stormed home to close to within half a length and narrowly miss the $150,000 first prize.

“To have a plan and have it come off, it’s just surreal,” said victorious trainer Matt Clark.

“You don’t expect to win these races.

These races, I’ve been in them for the last 12 months, and they’re always hard to win so you always show respect to your opposition.

But not very often it comes off this way and it has tonight. So, yeah, I’m very humbled, I’m thrilled.”

The Launching Pad is open to greyhounds with one to six wins and no more than 30 starts, so when Kuro Kismet won for the sixth time a month before the Launching Pad heats Clark needed to manage his charge’s preparations strictly on the trial track. Al18 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 6 April, 2021

Matt Clark’s Kuro Kismet claimed the Launching Pad at Sandown Park last Thursday night. ready a grade three at Sandown Park, Clark rounded out Kuro Kismet’s preparations at the track ensuring he knew every inch of the View Road circuit.

“I was always confident that he’d jump better this week having the inside rail. He trialled out of the red box the last two weeks prior to the series so I was actually happy to draw the inside box.

“Coming down in the car - there was the three of us driving down, Melissa (Mayle, owner), Bianca (his wife) and myself - I said, ‘if he’s in front a length and a half at the winning post the first time like my dad thinks he’ll be, it’s going to be a long way around . And it was. Let me tell you, when he led through

the catching pen, I just thought, wow, this is surreal. And I was quite confident that they wouldn’t run him down, but you’ve never won it until you’ve won it. And he did it.”

It was an emotional victory for Clark who, 30 years ago, worked at Sandown Park admiring the deeds of some of the sport’s greats.

It was at Sandown Park that his passion for the sport was born so it was fitting that it was there, in front of a large support crew of family and friends, that he achieved his greatest success.

“In the old days we used to set up presentations on the infield. And as a kid you’d watch Highly Blessed and dogs like that and dream that you’d get to that level.

“I always had the dream that I’d get there and look, I got here tonight. It means a lot to myself and it means a lot to Bianca. We work hard and everyone thinks it’s easy, but this is a hard game, mate. Whether you’re at Warragul on a Thursday tier three or you’re here tonight, every race is hard to win. You’ve got to respect your opposition every race. And I respected them greatly tonight. But to pull this off, it’s just amazing. It really is.”

Some of the sport’s brightest stars have progressed through the Launching Pad since adopting the slot race format in 2015, including 16 individual group race winners.

With the sport’s premier race for emerging greyhounds now on his trophy cabinet, Clark will look to add a group 1 to Kuro Kismet’s CV. “He’s really strong this dog and he scares me with his tenacity and his win at all cost attitude. And I just think the sky’s the limit with him, I really do.

“I say training dogs like this is like a choose your own adventure book, you don’t know where you’re going to go each week until it happens. We’ll sit down and talk to the ownership group this week and discuss it.”

Earlier in the night, the unheralded Utah Express claimed the Launching Pad Consolation for Tim Britton, while Blue Tiger took out the Consolation series final for Gavin Bourke. Each set of connections took home $15,000.

In the night’s support feature, the group 3 Easter Gift, the well supported Barooga Smoke blew his rivals away to claim the $15,000 first prize in a brilliant 29.16. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Expansion on the horizon

By Nick Creely Cricket Victoria (CV) is exploring the option of expanding the Women’s Premier Cricket competition, with the board to consider applications.

With the Women’s Premier Cricket competition continuing to set the benchmark across Australia, the decision has come in response to the ongoing growth and development of cricket for women and girls in Victoria.

While CV has floated that the expansion of the competition for next season (2021/22) is a possibility, it needs to ensure that the standard of the existing competition - which currently hosts eight clubs, including Dandenong who won the premiership recently - continues to grow and that established clubs are well placed to be competitive.

CV has confirmed that applications for entry into the competition will only be accepted from Men’s Premier Cricket clubs, which have already existing elite facilities and preparation environments. This would theoretically open the door for local Premier club Casey-South Melbourne to potentially bring a Women’s side into the competition.

At this stage, if a club was accepted into the competition it would join the league initially through 2nd and 3rd XI cricket before a transition into the top-grade in subsequent seasons.

Cricket Victoria chair Dr David Maddocks said the expansion now and in the future made perfect sense based on current evidence.

“The participation of women and girls in cricket has been strong for several seasons now, particularly in metropolitan areas. It’s incumbent on us to look at ways we can offer more playing opportunities for new players coming through the system,” Maddocks said.

The Dandenong Women’s premiership team for 2020/21.

“We’ve had ongoing interest from a number of clubs in the idea of expansion. It’s an exciting time when there is real momentum to continue building on what has been achieved to date. Women’s Premier Cricket remains an outstanding foundation for some of Australia’s best players.”

Maddocks stressed that with the growth of the WBBL, and more international women’s fixtures and elite pathways, now was the time

to make these considerations.

“This is not just a matter of growth for growth’s sake,” he said.

“Our data and our conversations with stakeholders throughout club cricket is that we are at a point where this can now be considered. Inspired by Australia, the WBBL or playing for Victoria, we have emerging talent that will be knocking down the door in the next couple of years and we want to ensure we can

Picture: CHRIS THOMAS cater for that.

“This decision is about future growth and is clearly not a reflection of the quality of existing teams in the competition that are not part of the men’s competition like Box Hill, EssendonMaribyrnong Park and Plenty Valley.

These clubs have proud traditions of success which will continue. This decision simply allows us to address planning for future expansion.”

All the colour and excitement of DDCA grand final day Hallam Kalora Park and Berwick played out one of the great Dandenong District Cricket Association Turf 1 grand finals recently, with the Hawks snaring its first flag in almost 20 years. Star Journal photographer ROB CAREW was there to capture all of the excitement, emotion and big moments from a classic match at Frawley Road...

Berwick superstar Ruwantha Kellepotha sends one down. 232575

What a catch! James Wilcock held onto this absolute ripper in the outfield. 232575

Hallam Kalora Park celebrates its first Turf 1 flag since 2001/02. 232575

Matt Chasemore and his Berwick teammates were in full celebration after the key wicket of Matthew Cox. 232575

There was plenty of pride and emotion after a gripping grand final win from the Hawks.

232575

‘Bindi’ the unofficial Hallam mascot with the cup was one happy pup after the victory.

232575

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Hawks keeper Ciaron Connolly was in full voice after a late run out. 232575 The Hawks belted out its famous song in the middle only minutes after sealing the win. 232575 Tuesday, 6 April, 2021

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STAR JOURNAL 19

Get

wild at Waverley Gardens these school holidays!

Week 1 Activities:

KIDS’ CRAFT Monday - Friday 10am - 2pm 5 April - 9 April Located opposite Coles Entertain the little ones with FREE craft activities like Sand Art, Plaster Painting and more!

JUNGLE FUN AND GAMES Monday - Sunday 10am - 2pm 5 April - 11 April 2 Locations! Near the Customer Service Desk and near McDonald’s Take on your friends and family in a game of soccer pool or challenge our safari guides to a basketball shoot out! There’s heaps of fun to find. *Bookings are not necessary, however please note waiting times may occur.

Visit waverleygardens.com.au for more details.

Cnr Police & Jacksons Road, Mulgrave | (03) 9547 6088 12488842-CG15-21

20 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 6 April, 2021

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au