Dandenong Star Journal - 25th January 2022

DANDENONG

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Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

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Face behind workplace tragedy

Ex-councillor will be sorely missed

BBL hero’s local connection

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SPORT

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Plan revealed for old school site

40¢ Inc. GST

Oz Day go-ahead

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong Council is persisting with a packed Australia Day events program despite Covid concerns.

Awards and citizenship ceremonies in Springvale Town Hall, a fun run at Dandenong Park and Summer Fun Day at Ross Reserve will continue as planned on 26 January.

‘Covid-safe’ restrictions – such as masks and proof of full vaccination/exemption at the Springvale indoor events – will apply.

Due to the impact of Omicron Covid cases, other Melbourne metro councils have scrapped Australia Day events. Also cancelled are popular summer festivals such as the Springvale Lunar New Year event and the World Fare @ Night at Dandenong Market.

City of Greater Dandenong’s services such as community care and libraries have been struck by staff shortages due to pandemic outbreaks.

In Greater Dandenong, infections recently surged to more than 3000 a week but have dipped in recent days. As of 23 January, 244 infected patients were in Monash Health hospitals, including 17 on ventilators in intensive care. More than 100 Victorians had died with Covid in the past week.

A concerned councillor and public health researcher Rhonda Garad said the Australia Day awards event was “high risk” for healthcompromised councillors and others, especially with no RATs provided.

“It’s about foreseeable risk in the middle of a pandemic, and I don’t know how the council can carry that risk.

“They can’t guarantee our safety.”

Mayor Jim Memeti said the Australia Day events will “definitely go ahead” if Covid outbreaks were “stable”. On staff shortages, he said the council was “doing the best we can to maintain and keep services”.

“The whole state, and the whole country except for Western Australia has been hit hard.

“We’ve had to take it day by day, and go with

the (state) Chief Health Officer’s advice.

“Hopefully we’ve hit the peak (of the Covid outbreak). And most people will start coming back.”

However, Cr Garad said overseas experience showed “wave after wave” of Omicron infection and re-infection.

“While this reinfection is so problematic from a public health view, we will also continue to have staff shortages.”

The council’s Springvale customer service centre has twice closed as a result of Covidcaused staff shortages, customer service executive manager Kylie Sprague said.

“However our customer service call centre continues to operate at full capacity as our staff are set up to work remotely as needed to serve our residents.”

Despite staff shortages, the council was “prioritising” high-needs community care and meals on wheels services. “To ensure that the clients most in need receive the necessary services while there are some staff shortages, we are prioritising personal care,” Ms Sprague said. “We have written to all our clients and they are understanding of the situation and appreciative of the efforts being made to maintain services where possible.”

Dandenong and Springvale libraries are open on “slightly reduced hours”, and Walker Street Gallery closed until 10 February “at this stage”. After several ‘hybrid’ meetings, councillors have resumed wholly-online meetings and briefing sessions.

Drum Theatre is staging shows within “Covid-safe guidelines”. Aquatic centres remain open. “The health and safety of our staff and the community remains Council’s top priority,” Ms Sprague said. “We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you our residents for their patience and understanding.”

The Make Your Move fun run starts from 7.45am on 26 January at Dandenong Park, followed by the council’s awards in Springvale Town Hall at 10am and Summer Fun Day at Ross Reserve, Noble Park from 11am.

Lirims Market Fresh - Lirim and Alketa (aka Kate).

Fresh food feast Lirim’s Market Fresh traders Lirim and Alketa, pictured, last week showed off their abundant stocks of fruit and veg.

They are among the Dandenong Market

traders who are reportedly immune from supply shortages suffered by supermarket chains.

Turn to page 11

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NEWS

Driver dies in Hallam crash

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Police are investigating the death of a driver involved in a bingle in Hallam on Saturday, 22 January.

A 43-year-old Dandenong man was found dead after a minor crash at the corner of Young Road and Homewood Boulevard about 11.40am.

Arson and Explosives Squad investigators are treating the man’s death as non-suspicious.

According to a 3AW Rumour File caller, the man may have been wounded prior to the crash.

Bomb Response Unit members used a re-

mote-controlled robot to deactivate a suspicious device in the car, the caller said.

“The deceased remained in the vehicle whilst the bomb response unit worked painstakingly through the afternoon and night.”

Neighbours were ordered to stay in their houses during the operation, the caller said.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said BRU members attended due to several explosive devices found in the vehicle.

“It took a considerable amount of time for the Bomb Response Unit to render these items safe.“ Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

Garbo truck fire in Doveton

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Jespreet Kaur with Sri Lankan cuisine at the Dandenong World Fare in 2019. 191663 Picture: ROB CAREW

Festivals scrapped

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Crowd-pulling festivals such as the Springvale Lunar New Year event and the World Fare @ Night at Dandenong Market have been cancelled due to the recent surge of the Omicron Covid variant.

The Lunar New Year festival last drew more than 60,000 when staged in 2020. However, its popularity meant it could not be staged during the Covid pandemic in 2021 and 2022.

“The reason is Covid. It’s a great shame,” Greater Dandenong councillor Richard Lim said.

“I was looking forward to it to further promote Springvale.”

Dandenong Market general manager Jennifer Hibbs said the event would have amalgamated two popular festivals, World Fare and Night Market.

“However, such a large public gathering has the potential of becoming a super-spreader event and we believe that cancelling the event is our only option to keep our team, our traders and our community safe.

“It was a hard decision but the right one in the current circumstances but we do plan to bring the event back next summer.”

The Market’s Waitangi Day Festival, planned for Sunday 6 February, was also cancelled.

As of 21 January, there were 253 Covid patients in Monash Health hospitals, including

The spectacular Lunar New Year festival in Springvale has been cancelled for the second consecutive year due to Covid.

21 on ventilation in intensive care.

This week, Covid infections have seemingly ‘plateaued’ after surging to more than 3000 new cases a week in Greater Dandenong in January.

Active cases in the Dandenong postcode peaked at more than 1400 on 13 January.

Greater Dandenong Council says it will continue to stage its Australia Day events, including a fun run at Dandenong Park, awards and citizenship ceremonies at Springvale Town Hall and a Summer Fun Day at Ross Reserve, Noble Park.

Drum Theatre will also stage the children’s theatre production The Magic Beach on 27 January.

Death-defying live acts A concrete pumper driver who hit highvoltage powerlines in Springvale is one of several recent lucky escapes across Melbourne, says the state’s energy safety regulator.

Energy Safe Victoria issued a warning for heavy machinery operators to be aware of overhead powerlines after several narrowly avoided injury over the past week.

On 19 January, the Springvale operator failed to properly assess their surroundings beforehand, according to the ESV. He was not injured.

Similarly, a five-tonne excavator brought down low-voltage overhead service cables in a Glen Waverley street on 12 January.

And on 17 January, a tip-truck driver with more than 25 years’ experience hit high-voltage lines in Rockback. They had been working without an electrical spotter, against the recommendations of ESV. ESV Commissioner Marnie Williams said when operating heavy machinery near 2 STAR JOURNAL

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powerlines, drivers should be aware of hazards, use spotters and do the appropriate training.

The most vulnerable are operators with “little-to-no experience” who have hired the equipment for work on their property.

“Unfortunately, both experienced and inexperienced heavy machinery operators can fail to take note of overhead powerlines,” Ms Williams said.

“Fortunately, no one was injured over the past week, however, not everyone has been as lucky in previous incidents where people have been seriously injured.”

In April and May 2020, ESV recorded four serious incidents in three weeks where workers were hospitalised after heavy machinery made contact with overhead powerlines.

ESV has been promoting its Look Up and Live campaign for more than a decade.

Details: esv.vic.gov.au/campaigns/lookup-and-live

Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

A garbage truck has dumped a fiery load in the street outside Doveton Pool in the Park early on Monday 24 January.

The truck’s load reportedly caught fire on Kidds Road just before 7.25am.

Within minutes, about seven FRV firefighters and a crew from Hallam CFA arrived to find the truck deposited the load.

The fire was brought under control within eight minutes, an FRV spokesperson said.

“Crews remained on scene for some time to ensure it was safe.

“FRV handed the scene over to the local council, while Victoria Police assisted with traffic control.”

Casey Council has been contacted for comment.

Major works at Pound Rd Cranes are starting to build foundations for a new bridge as part of the Pound Road West upgrade in Dandenong South.

The bridge over the Cranbourne rail line will provide the “missing link” between dead-ends at Remington Drive and Pound Road West, Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said.

“This upgrade will slash travel times and reliability along the Pound Road corridor – as well as create safer journeys for motorists.”

Major Road Projects Victoria project director Marc Peterson said the upgrade was expected to better connect motorists between the Dandenong South employment hub and the freeway network.

It would also ease congestion on Abbotts Road and South Gippsland Highway, Mr Peterson said.

By 2031, more than 40,000 vehicles are expected to traverse the bridge each day.

The connection feeds two lanes each way, and is bordered by shared walkingcycling paths.

Meanwhile, early works to strengthen and resurface Frankston-Dandenong Road’s bridge over rail have begun this month.

Major works on the circa 1950’s bridge are expected in coming months.

As part of the Pound Road West Upgrade, traffic lights will be installed at Hydrive Close and Ventura Place.

Intersections at Abbotts Road and South Gippsland Highway will be improved.

The upgrade is part of a $2.27 joint state and federal package to upgrade suburban roads in Melbourne’s South East and North.

Other projects include Lathams Road, Hallam North and Heatherton Road, Golf Links Road, Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road and Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road.

Cool reception for dish

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A proposed Telstra satellite dish station in Keysborough has been put on hold by Greater Dandenong councillors.

Neighbouring residents had opposed the 1.8-metre wide dish hovering near their fenceline at the back of the 46-year-old telecommunications exchange on 359-363 Cheltenham Road.

The satellite ground network earth station would stand up to 2.5 metres tall near an adjoining resident’s fence, according to a council report tabled on 13 December.

In support, council officers stated the impact was “reasonable” given the “numerous examples” of larger and higher satellite dishes on home roofs.

The dish – used to “provide reliable Telstra cellular services” for mobile users - would also

be “largely screened” by existing trees on the site.

The report also dismissed neighbours’ concerns about electromagnetic emissions – which were found to be “compliant” with Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency standards.

It was also unlikely to significantly disrupt residents’ TV and radio reception.

“If the application was to be appealed to VCAT, it is the officer’s view that it is highly likely that VCAT would also issue a planning permit for this proposal,” the report stated.

On 13 December, Greater Dandenong councillor Rhonda Garad successfully moved for the proposal’s deferral until 24 January to seek a “negotiated outcome” between Telstra and neighbours.

The issue is expected to be further deferred with talks yet to eventuate.

Survey to rate your council A phone survey is set to ask Greater Dandenong residents for their ratings on their council.

The City of Greater Dandenong has commissioned independent interviewers to call a “representative sample” of 400 residents from 31 January to mid-March.

The survey is designed to assess the coun-

cil’s performance on a range of measures.

Details and individual responses are kept confidential. Overall results only are shared with the council.

Market research agency National Field Services will conduct the surveys.

Details: City of Greater Dandenong customer service, 8571 1000. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Housing on school site

By Cam Lucadou-Wells The former Maralinga Primary School’s future as a housing estate has been confirmed.

Shortly before Christmas, Victoria’s Planning Minister Richard Wynne approved the controversial rezoning of the Keysborough site to a Neighbourhood Residential Zone of up to two storeys.

It sits between homes off McMahen Street and Maralinga and Woomera avenues as well as a light industrial zone and Chandler Road Reserve.

Key details such as public open space requirements and the future of Chandler Road Reserve have not yet been released.

Nor has the report of a Government Land Standing Advisory Committee, which held public hearings in early 2021.

A Government spokesperson said the Minister’s approval of Amendment C211gdan was based on the advisory committee’s advice on 6 April.

“The Minister accepted all recommendations of the committee and approved rezoning the land from a Public Use Zone to Neighbourhood Residential Zone enabling applications for residential development to be lodged with the council.

“There is a requirement for any residential development at the site to include a public open space contribution.“ During the hearings, the Government dropped its submission for zero public open space on the site.

It had been in negotiations to waive open space in exchange for leasing its majority portion of Chandler Road Reserve to Greater Dandenong Council, it told the hearing.

It’s unknown whether a lease to preserve the parkland has been signed.

According to the Government, the council suggested a further two-metre-wide reserve on the western side of the school site – as part of a 5 per cent open space requirement.

At the hearing, Greater Dandenong opposed the rezoning due to a lack of public consultation on the zero open space proposal.

The council has subsequently “noted”

Picture: GARY SISSONS

The former Maralinga Primary School site is destined for a housing estate. 228288 Mr Wynne’s decision.

“When a planning application is lodged to develop this site, Council will work with the applicant at that time to seek to achieve a high quality outcome for the community,” planning and design manager Brett Jackson said.

Public submissions raised concerns on increased traffic, removal of vegetation, neighbourhood character, the underground petrol tanks, Aboriginal and cultural sensitivities and stormwater.

Opposing the amendment, Keysborough resident Gaye Guest asked the hearing how it could decide on the school site without know-

ing the fate of Chandler Road Reserve.

The proposed rezoning on flood-prone land was “ludicrous”. As was converting the dead-end Maralinga Avenue and McMahen Street, and Woomera Avenue and Malcolm Crescent into through roads, she said.

“This is a quiet residential cell that is in fear of being invaded by excessive overdevelopment.”

Ms Guest noted eight schools had been merged into four in recent years.

“I’m interested to also know if this becomes a residential development where these children who occupy this proposed development

will be educated.”

Maralinga Primary School closed in 2014 – four years after merging with Chandler Park Primary School.

In 2015, the Department of Education and Training deemed the site as surplus for educational needs.

The question of whether the land was needed for a school was not considered by the GLSAC hearing.

The committee report and Minister’s response are expected to be published after notice is published in the Victoria Government Gazette.

Car thief flies on foot and caught in a rubbish bin

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Dandenong North man driving a stolen $66,000 Audi led police on a foot chase through streets and back yards before being found hiding by a rubbish bin, the court has heard.

Emmanual Farajala, 21, pleaded guilty at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 20 January to car theft, disqualified driving and being found with gloves and a screwdriver connected with a theft.

He also pleaded to cannabis possession, breaching a community corrections order and committing an indictable offence on bail.

Police spotted Farajala walking away from the parked Audi A3 with a driver-side door still ajar on Oldmeadow Street Dandenong North about 12.50am on 13 June, the court heard.

Police ran along Boyd Street and Nicole Avenue in pursuit of Farajala.

Twenty minutes later, he was reportedly spotted in a backyard. Police recovered his satchel and found him hiding on a Heatherton Road corner.

Farajala – with 12 pages of prior criminal history and seven pages of driving offences - was disqualified from driving for five years

at the time.

Magistrate Jason Ong agreed to defer Farajala’s sentence on the basis of “some level of positive engagement” with support services since the offending.

He noted that Farajala had not offended since the incident, and noted his childhood trauma and subsequent TAFE enrolment.

“I want you to come back to court and for you to show me you’ve stayed out of trouble, and continued your positive and constructive steps towards your rehabilitation.”

Corrections Victoria recommended that Farajala resume his breached CCO.

Farajala was not charged over the initial theft of the Audi in an aggravated burglary in Armadale several nights earlier, Mr Ong noted.

Nor was he linked to an aggravated burglary in Narre Warren involving the same vehicle, and to the vehicle speeding at 150 km/h from police on Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road.

Farajala was also not proven responsible for the Audi’s altered number plates or damaged driver-side door.

He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court for sentencing on 26 April.

Operation Omni hits region Police officers are currently conducting planned weapons searches in the south-east of Melbourne as part of Operation Omni.

Police in Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia are conducting a high visibility operation in the Dandenong CBD, Fountain Gate Shopping Centre, Pakenham CBD and the surrounding transport hubs from Thursday 20 January to Saturday 22 January, targeting weapons offences.

Under the Control of Weapons Act 1990, Victoria Police has declared the area a designated area for weapons searches.

The operation is a proactive police initiative to ensure the community are able to enjoy activities safely.

It aims to detect weapons offences, enhance community safety, gather intelligence and deter anyone who may think that carrying a weapon in the community is acceptable.

Operation Omni ran in early January 2021 in the same area as 2022’s campaign. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Expressions of Interest for Community Grant Panels Greater Dandenong City Council is seeking Expressions of Interest from community members to join our Community Grants Panels for 2022-23.

Community Grants Panels have been established to improve decision making on Council’s Community Grants programs.

Police at Dandenong railway station. 225808 Police checked 160 people and 20 vehicles over a three-day period, with 16 people people arrested and charged for firearm possession, assault, theft, drug and other weapon-related offences.

Expressions of Interest will be open until midnight 21 February.

Apply online at greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/grants For further information please contact the Community Funding Team on 8571 1432 or email commgrants@cgd.vic.gov.au

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Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 3

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From the oldest to the youngest, getting your third dose now, means you’ve done everything you can to protect everyone you love from serious illness.

Find your nearest vax site and walk in, or book now.

Go to coronavirus.vic.gov.au

VACCINATION

TICKET Find out more at CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Backflip on IVF ban

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Dandenong MP and Cabinet Minister Gabrielle Williams has welcomed the State Government’s backflip on its 90-day ban on new IVF patients.

The State Government was strongly criticized after pausing IVF – and elective surgeries - as part of a Pandemic Code Brown in public hospitals from midday, 19 January.

It was in response up to 6000 health staff infected or quarantined a day and more than 1200 infected hospital patients in Victoria.

As of 21 January, there were 253 Covid patients in Monash Health hospitals, including 21 on ventilation in intensive care.

In recent years, Ms Williams has publicly shared her “gruelling roller coaster of hope and despair” undergoing IVF. In a social media post on 20 January, Ms Williams said she was pleased to hear IVF’s resumption the next week – announced a day after Code Brown commenced.

“I know how much this means to the thousands of people across Victoria who need these services and don’t have time on their side.

“I know only too well the distress caused by delays to IVF services.

“I’ve been undergoing assisted reproductive treatments for over five years, so far without success.

“And as the weeks and months march on, it only gets harder. The window of opportunity gets smaller. Success rates decline.

“And you steel yourself for the day you might have to concede that the journey is over, and in doing so re-imagine your whole life to

fit a new and unwelcome reality.

“It’s an awful feeling.”

The Minister for Women thanked others for sharing their “deeply personal stories” in advocating for the continuation of IVF services.

“My story sits alongside yours,“ she said.

“While our journeys have their own unique twists and turns, most of us on this path share the same heartache and - importantly - hope.

“Good luck, and I hope today’s announcement makes it all that little bit easier.”

Premier Daniel Andrews apologised for the “sense of distress and pain” originally caused by the ban.

The resumption of IVF treatments was triggered by changed advice from the Chief Health Officer, he said.

IVF’s specialist workforce, facilities and equipment were now “not imperative to support the pandemic response at this time”, according to a statement from the State Government.

Mr Andrews said the Code Brown was caused by the “extraordinary pressure” of hospital staff being isolated and unable to work due to Covid.

“People are doing their very best just to keep people safe – that’s what drives us.“ Among the ban’s critics was Opposition leader Matthew Guy, who accused the government of “dictating whether or not Victorians can have a family”.

Opposition health spokesperson Georgie Crozier said: “We are already in the midst of a shadow lockdown and now the government is putting the mental health of those experiencing infertility at risk.”

The time between second and third doses of the Covid-19 vaccine has been cut from four to three months.

Third dose jab blitz

Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams says she’s pleased by the State Government’s reversal of a temporary ban on new IVF patients.

Health experts say booster shot is ‘vital’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Monash Health has urged people to get Covid vaccine booster shots to protect themselves from the spread of the Omicron variant.

Ahead of a booster blitz on 22 and 23 January, public health director Rhonda Stuart said a booster dose decreased the risk of being hospitalised by 95 per cent.

“I’ve seen media, social media chats about maybe just getting Covid and getting it over and done with,” Professor Stuart said.

“My advice would be that is not the way to go. We are seeing people, young, fit, healthy people, being admitted to hospital with Omicron.

“We are seeing people being admitted to ICU with Omicron, but also we’re seeing people very sick in the community, being bedbound, having high fevers, shaking chills, terrible muscle aches.

“I wouldn’t wish that upon anyone.”

Professor Stuart noted the rising numbers of deaths from the Covid Delta variant, as well as Omicron cases “filling our hospitals”.

“We are seeing many patients hospitalised

Professor Rhonda Stuart at the Sandown Racecourse vaccination hub. 237903 Picture: CAM LUCADOU-WELLS across health services and no less than 5 per cent of them had booster doses.”

As of 21 January, there were 253 Covid patients in Monash Health hospitals, including 21 on ventilation in intensive care.

This week, Covid infections have seemingly ‘plateaued’ after surging to more than 3000

new cases a week in Greater Dandenong in January.

Active cases in the Dandenong postcode peaked at more than 1400 on 13 January.

In Casey, there were up to 7600 active cases this month – with more than 8000 new cases between 4-10 January.

Professor Stuart said boosters were required due to vaccine immunity waning after three months.

Those infected by Omicron were also urged to get boosters when well enough to do so.

The risk of reinfection was 10 times greater than for the Delta variant, she said.

There were more than 11,700 Covid vaccine bookings available at Monash Health hubs across the next seven days.

Walk-up vaccinations are available at the Dandenong Plaza pop-up clinic, including for adults and children aged five and up.

Interpreter services are available at the clinic. It is open at Level 3 at Dandenong Plaza, 9am-4pm.

Bookings are also available at Sandown Racecourse vaccine hub at portal.cvms.vic. gov.au and 1800 675 398.

Victorians over the age of 18 will now be eligible to get their vital third dose of the Covid-19 vaccine after three months, just in time for a walk-up vaccination blitz which started on Friday 21 January.

The reduced timeframe of three months, recommended by Victoria’s public health team, means 1.2 million more Victorians can now increase their immunity before school and work returns in full.

To support an anticipated increase in demand this weekend, more workers, more cubicles, more walk-up capacity and 60,000 more appointments will be available at key vaccination centres.

Hours at major hubs including Sandown, Bendigo and La Trobe University have all been extended specifically for the blitz, which will run from this Friday to next Monday, with key clinics also offering free ice creams in collaboration with Unilever.

Walk-up vaccinations will be available and are encouraged at a number of state-run centres including Sandown Racecourse (walk-up 9am to 6pm Saturday and Sunday), Dandenong Plaza (walk-up 9am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday) and Frankston’s Bayside Centre (walk-up 9.30am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday).

The rest of Victoria’s large state-run network will also be operating, with thousands of appointments available.

All sites except Dandenong Plaza and Ballarat Mercure will also offer both Pfizer and Moderna doses.

Visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au/vaccination-centres for locations, hours and access information before walking up.

Bookings can also be made online at portal.cvms.vic.gov.au or by calling 1800 675 398.

Those who want to get their third dose at a local GPs or pharmacy can also book through the online clinic finder at covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/ booking/ For information about coronavirus visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au or call 1800 675 398.

Multicultural vaccine support on offer The Casey/Cardinia/Dandenong Community Support Group and Komak Community Support Group will each receive $150,000 to support access to vaccinations for South Sudanese and Afghan community members, respectively, across Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia.

The Le Mana Pasifika Project will also receive $150,000 to support Pasifika communities to access vaccinations in various locations including Casey and Greater Dandenong.

Funding will allow the community support groups to employ bi-cultural case workers and/or case managers who will work with the local South Sudanese, Afghan and Pasifika communities to resolve hesitancies and barriers to vaccination.

Culturally appropriate communications for young people and their communities will also be initiated through engagement with community and religious leaders, as well as pop-up vaccination hubs as required.

The State Government announced sucdandenong.starcommunity.com.au

cessful funding recipients of the $1.2 million allocated to the Supporting Access to Vaccination for Priority Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities program on Monday 17 January.

This funding will allow staff to work directly with community members and leaders to provide vaccine information and help get community members vaccinated through helping book an appointment, arranging childcare or transport to vaccination hubs.

Community organisations and neighbourhood houses are also encouraged to apply for up to $20,000 to help vulnerable Victorians overcome barriers to vaccination and tackle vaccine misinformation through the Local Community Access Grants Program.

These initiatives are part of a $21 million package to boost tailored support for Victorians who may face additional barriers to vaccination, including people living with disability, at-risk youth, seniors, culturally diverse and multi-faith communities, social housing resi-

dents and victim survivors of family violence.

The seven community support groups and the Le Mana Pasifika Project run on a placebased and community-led model. Each is auspiced by an organisation possessing strong and established links to the communities they work with, ensuring tailored operational support is provided.

The Centre for Multicultural Youth is the auspice organisation for the Casey/Cardinia/ Dandenong Community Support Group and Le Mana Pasifika Project, while Uniting (Victoria and Tasmania) is the equivalent organisation for the Komak Community Support Group.

Community support groups were established by the state government from 2016 to strengthen youth engagement in multicultural communities and to ensure that young people and their families are linked into activities and services in their areas.

For more information, visit vic.gov.au/local-community-access-grants-program.

The State Government is supporting multicultural communities in the south-east to get vaccinated. 264235 Picture: UNSPLASH

Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 5

LOOKING BACK

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

Dandenong Plaza. 206306

100 years ago 26 January 1922 About People A unique record in school attendance has been held by Miss Nellie Beazley, daughter of Mr F W Beazley, a farmer of Cardinia.

This scholar has performed a remarkable feat of attending the Cardinia school for a period of seven years without the loss of a single day. Miss Beazley is to be congratulated upon crowing this performance by winning her merit certificate.

Amongst the names of successful candidates of the annual examinations of the Melbourne University appears that of Miss Nancy Heath, daughter of the Rev H S Heath, superintendent of the Dandenong Methodist Circuit.

Miss Heath, who is aiming to qualify in bacteriology, passed first year science in all subjects with honours in Botany.

The Rev H S Heath BA is at present enjoying a holiday at Flinders, during his absence on Sunday next, the Rev E Nye, BA will occupy the pulpit morning and evening, at the Dandenong Methodist Church.

Mr K G McAlpin, secretary to the Dandenong Shire Council, is at present on annual leave, and is spending the holiday at Frankston.

50 years ago 25 January 1972 Egg Producers future bleak Chairman of the Poultry Committee of the Victorian Farmers Union Mr Bob Seary, of Springvale, claims Victorian poultry farmers and egg producers are facing ruin.

He said surplus unsaleable production is crippling the industry. He urges all poultry farmers and their families to join a demonstration next week against the Victorian Government which has opposed the industry’s

marketing proposals.

Mr Seary said, “At the end of this financial year there were 30,000 tons of egg pulp in cold storage.

“There is no foreseeable sale of this 30,000 tons now Britain has joined the Common Market.

“We’ve lost that market, and Japan, our next biggest market, is going to be self-sufficient in egg production by 1973.”

20 years ago 4 February 2002 Dandenong Plaza helps youth leadership The youth information centre operating at the Dandenong Plaza is poised for action with the development of a youth action committee.

According to co-ordinator Kelly Vincent, the aim is to train young people to be leaders, involve themselves in community pursuits and, in general, improve the image of young people

at the shopping centre. “We want to improve safety within the centre through the creation of better relationships between the retailers, security personnel, police and the broader community in and around the plaza,“ she said.

5 years ago 6 February 2017 More to move into City Centre More residential development is on its way to Central Dandenong.

Quest apartments, Dandenong Civic Centre, the government services building, and the Australian Tax Office have all opened in the Revitalising Central Dandenong precinct in recent years.

Last year a new Salvation Army Headquarters was announced, and the State Government selected Foster Street’s Little India as the state’s first official Indian cultural precinct.

Don’t travel to high risk areas on Extreme Fire Danger Rating days.

If you plan to travel through Victoria, during fire season, it’s important to check the Fire Danger Rating every day.

If the rating is Extreme or above, avoid travelling to high risk areas, including to cities and towns.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to emergency.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12520431-BL04-22

6 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Face of workplace tragedy

By Shelby Brooks and Marcus Uhe

Darren Lamb with his family.

Picture: SUPPLIED

ate stress off the family,” she said.

“With seven kids we thought by taking the stress of money off Charlene that she could focus on her kids and being able to grieve for her husband.”

In a statement, Worksafe said it would be investigating the incident.

“It is understood a component of the forklift failed as the shipping container was being lifted at about 6.07am, causing the container

to fall back onto the driver’s cabin,” a WorkSafe spokesperson said.

“The death is the second workplace fatality for 2022, two more than at the same time last year.”

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A 44-year-old “hard-working family man” and father of seven has tragically died in a workplace accident in Dandenong South Monday morning, 17 January.

Emergency services were called to a Fowler Road business just after 6.45am following reports a man had been crushed by a shipping container.

The victim was later identified as Kooweerup father Darren Lamb.

Mr Lamb was described by family and friends as a man whose world was centred around his family - wife Charlene and children, Jake 20, Jayde 16, Leyon 14, Nevada 7, Willow 5, Aspen 3 and Billie 1.

“They were his everything,” family friend Corrina Jagoe told the Star Journal.

“He spent every weekend with his kids and Charlene, whether it be just hanging out at home or going on day trips.

“Darren was the type of guy that everyone he met became a mate. He was a character as you can see by all the videos and tributes on his Facebook page.”

Mr Lamb and Charlene had been married for 22 years. The pair married in 2012 in a rooftop ceremony in Las Vegas.

“He had a wicked sense of humour which is shown on his wedding day when he said his vows to Charlene and they turned out to be the words to the theme song of home and away,” Ms Jagoe said.

“While in Vegas he got a tattoo of Charlene’s lips on his neck to ‘seal the marriage’.”

An avid Carlton supporter, Mr Lamb was also a huge advocate of Victorian Brotherhood which deals with male mental health and suicide awareness.

A GoFundMe was set up on Tuesday for the family by Ms Jagoe and which has since raised over $58,000.

“We wanted to set it up to take the immedi-

Council’s Community Grants Programs Greater Dandenong City Council provides a range of opportunities for non-profit community organisations to apply for funding for activities and services that benefit local residents.

The Community Partnership Funding Program opens on 1 February until 28 February.

The Community Support Grants Program opens on 7 February until 14 March.

All applications must be made online through Council’s website .greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/grants Online grants information sessions are available to learn about Council’s programs: Community Partnerships Funding and Sponsorships Information Sessions • Wednesday 9 February: 6pm to 7pm • Thursday 17 February:10am to 11am • Tuesday 22 February: 11am to 12pm Community Support Grants Program Information Sessions • Wednesday 16 February: 11am to 12pm • Thursday 3 March: 10.30am to 11.30am • Tuesday 8 March: 6pm to 7pm Bookings are required for all sessions and one-one-one appointments and subject to COVID-19 requirements.

To book a meeting with the Community Funding Team or to reserve a place at an information session, please email commgrants@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone 8571 1432.

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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 7

NEWS

Former Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon was widely admired for her community work. 194479 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Nevaeh (6) with Mayor Cr Amanda Stapledon in the very safe outdoor walled playground . 193854

Amanda ‘sorely missed’ Shocked friends and colleagues have hailed former City of Casey mayor Amanda Stapledon for her “incredible” and “tireless” community work.

The 58-year-old former councillor – who had been rocked by an IBAC inquiry into Casey councillors - was found dead in a car in Stringybark Drive about 12.30pm on Tuesday 18 January.

Her death is not being treated as suspicious, Victoria Police stated.

Ms Stapledon was widely admired as a strong, unstinting community voice, especially for disability and carer issues.

Many also paid tribute to her as a devoted sole carer for her family over decades.

She leaves behind a frail father who she visited daily in aged care and Pete - her adult son

who has multiple disabilities.

Blairlogie chief executive Carolyn Carr said Ms Stapledon was “one of the most incredible community leaders I’ve ever met”.

Her staff reacted with “gasps” and “broke down” at the tragic news.

“She’s been an incredible support for not only our organisation but for people with disabilities in general. And more than that, for carers with people with disabilities.

“She worked tirelessly to raise awareness about how carers and people with disabilities have to live with such a lack of access to services.

“She did all that while being the mum to Pete and Pete was her world.

“She always put him first and I don’t know how she did it all.”

Ms Stapledon fought for proper support for

carers so they could be part of the workforce, Ms Carr said.

“She’s been fighting for that since Pete was a baby. He’s now 28, and she’s been carrying that banner for such a long time.

“The sad thing is, we’re not going to have another voice like Amanda. She’ll be hugely missed by the community.”

Ms Stapledon’s passion for disability support preceded her council terms between 2008-’20, including two stints as mayor.

She co-founded Casey Kidz Club – an afterschool care program for disabled teenagers - and highlighted the lack of funding support.

Among her major legacies were two 75-kilometre Mayors Walks for Disability – in which she spread the word on service gaps for people with disabilities and their carers.

The initial feat led to her being crowned the

Star News Person of the Year 2013.

Ms Stapledon was also a past president of Disability Capability and had held positions on the Blairlogie Living and Learning Board, the Casey Cardinia and ACE (Aiding Casey Education) foundations and Merinda Park Learning and Community Centre.

She was patron of the Cranbourne Football Club All Abilities Team and the YMCA Open Doors Program.

For many years, she hosted Women of Today on Casey Radio 97.7FM and penned a regular column for Star News Group.

She made two unsuccessful tilts at state politics – as an independent in 2010 and a Liberal candidate in 2014.

For crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au or beyond blue on 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions

12528078-CG04-22

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Cranbourne and Pakenham lines

Until last train 3 Feb

Westall to Cranbourne and Pakenham

4 Feb to 6 Feb

Dandenong to Cranbourne

From 8.30pm 7 Feb to last train 10 Feb

Caulfield to Westall

8.30pm to last train each night, 27 Feb to 3 Mar

Road disruptions: Closed roads, lanes and ramps At night in Jan

Freeway closed between Warrigal Road and EastLink

In Jan

Lanes and ramps closed between Clyde and Cardinia road

At night in Jan

Freeway closed between Clyde and Cardinia roads

In Jan

Lanes and ramps closed between Clyde and Cardinia roads

Camms Road, Cranbourne

Until 7 Feb

Closed between Murray Court and George Street (some local access)

Fairfield Street, Cranbourne

Until 7 Feb

Closed in both directions between Camms Road and Station Street

Clyde Road, Berwick

Until 20 Feb

Closed between Enterprise Ave and Mansfield Street

Hallam Road, Hallam

9pm to 6am each night, 27 Jan to 12 Feb

Closed at the level crossing

Monash Freeway

MTIA6960

Princes Freeway

Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

8 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Amanda Stapledon with Cranbourne Bowls Club’s Tony Collins, Ray Boskell and Shirley Venville.

197309 Pictures: ROB CAREW

Mayor Amanda Stapledon leads the Walk for Disability in 2019. 198158

Cr rocked by IBAC inquiry

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Friends of the late Casey councillor Amanda Stapledon say she had been “deeply upset” by an IBAC investigation into alleged corruption

by Casey councillors.

With IBAC expected to finalise its report soon, Ms Stapledon’s close friend Kerril Burns said the protracted two-year ordeal had a deep impact.

“The treatment of all people involved in all IBAC investigations needs to be thoroughly investigated.

“This has dragged on for so long and it has to affect a person’s mind.

“People who are not criminals should not be treated as such.”

As a councillor, Ms Stapledon was interested in “every resident’s problems”, Ms Burns said.

“When I first met Amanda I received the same cheerful smile to which all who know her are accustomed.

“My memories of Amanda will always be of the wonderful caring person who loved her father, mother and son so much.

“She loved Casey and Cranbourne in particular so much, and relished her time representing the residents of Casey.

“She will be sorely missed by so many of us.”

Former Casey councillor Colin Butler said Ms Stapledon’s passing was an “absolute tragedy”.

“She was fine until (IBAC) hit and she went downhill from there. We tried and tried and tried but in the end it got her.

“I didn’t think she’d take it to heart that badly. It didn’t matter how many times we said you did nothing wrong.

“We’ve lost such an important person in the community.

“I think she’s the most selfless person I’ve met. It wasn’t about her but about everyone else.”

She’d help anyone regardless of politics or religious affiliation, he said.

“She found time for everybody. I don’t know how – she said she just liked to keep going and going all the time.

“I don’t think I’ve come across a more community-minded person-councillor-mayor in my life. She was way in front of everyone else.“ At the IBAC Operation Sandon inquiry in 2020, Ms Stapledon conceded that she’d failed to properly declare a conflict of interest at council – namely a $25,000 state election donation from property developer John Woodman who had a stake in rezoning industrial land in Cranbourne West.

After the 2016 council election, Ms Stapledon also omitted declaring being part of Mr Woodman’s $100,000 campaign for a group of “like-minded” candidates.

She had said she was uncertain whether Mr Woodman had funded the campaign.

She also met with Mr Woodman shortly before being elected as mayor in 2018.

“Mr Woodman has never asked me to do anything for him,” Ms Stapledon told the inquiry. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Mayor Amanda Stapledon celebrates with Casey Cardinia Business of the Year recipients from Gumbuya World. 199194

Mayor Amanda Stapledon with a Christmas Tree at Bunjil Place. 188188 “I need to be very clear there: he has done nothing improper in that regard.”

Close friend Rob Ward said Ms Stapledon may have been too naive and trusting of others. There was “not an ounce of malfeasance“ in her, he said.

“She was an outstanding human being who will be greatly missed not just for what she did but for who she was.

“A kinder, more generous, gentler person you could not find. Her dedication to her son for more than 20 years is legendary.

“The pressure that IBAC brought to bear was intolerable. There are people who do the wrong thing that have no conscience but she was so tender that the thought of making a mistake was too much to bear.“ Former councillor Wayne Smith said Ms Stapledon was a “genuinely good representative who cared for her community”.

“Her community was number one. That was shown in the fact she supported so many organisations.

“It has come as a shock.

“Last time I spoke to her was before last Christmas, she seemed OK. I’m disappointed she didn’t feel she could reach out.”

Kay Morland, wife of late Casey mayor Mick Morland, said it was “impossible to recognise all that Amanda was to her family, her friends and this community”.

She touched thousands with her tireless support for many community groups within and outside Casey.

“She was the most community minded and caring human being I ever met,” Mrs Morland said.

“Amanda always saw the best in everyone and was more than generous in her praise, support and encouragement to all.

“We shared an ongoing joke about wearing the right shoes for the occasion and many times she would glance my way during a function, wink and hold out her foot for approval.

“The world is a lesser place now she’s not here. RIP gorgeous girl. I hope you know how loved you were.”

Former councillor Damien Rosario said Ms Stapledon was “truly the best of us”.

“She truly did care about the community and worked very hard to improve things for the lives of her residents.

“Even after council, she was volunteering with groups and guiding them – it was a testament to who she was.”

Ms Stapledon was the driver of the inclusive playground Livvi’s Place in Lyndhurst, Mr Rosario said.

“Her name should have been on that plaque (at the playground).”

In a statement, City of Casey stated Ms Stapledon focussed on improving access and inclusion for all.

“As a sole carer of an adult child with a disability, she understood the pressure on families, carers, and our older persons.

“Many would describe Amanda as someone who had dedicated her life, aside from her family, to helping others.”

She also advocated for tourism, roads and key infrastructure as well as waste management and longer-term sustainability.

“She is no doubt missed and mourned by many.

“Rest in peace, Amanda Stapledon.”

For crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au or beyond blue on 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au

Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

|

STAR JOURNAL 9

IN CHALLENGING TIMES­ YOU’RE IN GOOD HANDS When you move into a Ryman village, you’ll never feel disconnected from your friends and neighbours.

Every Ryman retirement village is a supportive community where residents can thrive – even in difficult times. While we observe strict safety protocols, we’ve found ways to make sure our residents can stay connected, including online happy hours and outdoor exercise classes, as well as daily check-ins with our friendly team.

Supporting people is what we do best – we’ve been doing it for 35 years, and right now over 12,000 residents call our villages home. Whether you live independently but want to become part of a closer community, or if you’d like the extra helping hand that comes with an assisted living apartment, we’ve got options to suit. And we also have a range of aged care options should you ever need them, including low care, high care and specialist dementia care – all of them right there on-site.

“If you need help, people are there for you.”

Whatever you’re looking for in a community, you’ll find a warm welcome at Ryman.

Arrange a virtual tour at rymanhealthcare.com.au

10 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

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Julie, Nellie Melba Village

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

BUSINESS PROFILE

Tash from Peninsula Organic Farmgate.

Peter from Dandy Free Range.

Great service at Dandenong Market.

No shortages at market

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Fresh food at Dandenong Market.

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Tash from Peninsula Organic Farmgate.

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

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Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

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12452271-SN26-20

Dandenong Market continues to buck the trends with no shortage of fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and seafood that has been reported by the supermarket giants.

“Our traders are buying direct from farmers or wholesalers every Market day, or they are farmers themselves,” Ms Jennifer Hibbs, General Manager Dandenong Market explains.

Grocery shopping has been a hot topic throughout the coronavirus pandemic, with supermarket shelves empty due to the Omicron variant affecting food supply chains and product availability nationwide.

“Everyone at the market is here to serve the community, navigating the changing restrictions, isolation requirements, and frustrations of Covid-19, just like everyone else,” Ms Hibbs says. “Our loyal customers continue to shop with us and we welcome new ones every week.

“Once people realise there is no shortage and no limits at the market, plenty of variety and at great prices, they become regular customers. We have weekly shoppers from Camberwell, Warrandyte and the Mornington Peninsula who wouldn’t shop anywhere else now.”

Dandenong Market has more than 200 small businesses so it becomes a one-stop destination in addition to the weekly grocery shop.

“You can get your keys cut, grab your lotto ticket, pick up some flowers, collect some printer ink, buy new school shoes, get a new watch, have your phone repaired or your jewellery polished – the list is endless,” Ms Hibbs said.

“We also encourage all of our customers to swing by Market Square for lunch or to take a meal home. We really do have some of the best street food in Melbourne, representing many different countries with more than 150 authentic dishes. Of course, we have customers coming just for our world fare on a plate too.”

Dandenong Market is open on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday 7am-4pm and Sunday 9am4pm.

STAR JOURNAL 11

WHAT’S ON Spiritual workshops Welcome to The Open Door, a centre for creative spirituality. Our centre offers a place to explore your creativity/inner life without fear or judgement.

We run a variety of weekly workshops from 31 January including Tai Chi (Mondays 2pm2.20pm), awareness meditation (Mondays 2.30pm-3.30pm) and Art of Soul (Wednesdays 11.30am-1.30pm). Monthly workshops include Mark’s Gospel (first Monday of month 4.30pm5.30pm), 500 Card Game Club (first Thursday of month 1.30pm-2.30pm) and Book Club (third Monday of month 7pm-8pm) Workshops are in person and via Zoom. Gold coin donations welcomed.

110 Ann Street, Dandenong. Details: Jo on 9791 8664 or email theopendoor@ssjg.org. au All patrons must show proof of full vaccination and wear a mask upon entry.

Magic Beach Alison Lester’s classic book comes to life on stage in a wonderful world of song, light, shadow, text and movement for children aged 3-8 years and their adults.

From the team behind The Gruffalo and The 13-, 26-, 52-, 78- and 91-Storey Treehouses, this new Australian adaptation from multi-award winning playwright Finegan Kruckemeyer is a celebration of the power of the imagination and the differences that make every child special.

Thursday 27 January, 12pm at The Drum theatre, cnr Walker and Lonsdale streets, Dandenong.

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

· ·

Men’s Shed closed Keysborough Mens shed is currently closed until further notice due to the amount of Covid cases around the area. We will notify all when we can start again so hang in there guys. If you need any help please call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

·

Art show entries open Noble Park Community Art Show is calling artists of all ages to submit 2D artworks in any medium, including oils, acrylics, watercolours, gouache and aerosol.

Entries close 24 February. First prize $500, junior first prize $150.

Details: npccartshow.com/enter/

·

·Make Your Move

This Australia Day fun run is open to everyone of all ages and abilities. This is not a timed event – walk, run, stroll, push or roll like no one is watching.

The run will take place on an approved track around Dandenong Park and finish near Shepley Oval. Come and have a fun – and fit - start to Australia Day 2022 with your friends and family and enjoy a sausage sizzle on offer.

Check in at Stan Prior Stage at 7.45am on Wednesday 26 January.

8am-9am Wednesday 26 January at Dandenong Park, cnr Pultney, Foster and Lonsdale

·

streets, Dandenong. Check in at 7.45am at Stan Prior Stage.

nong.vic.gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/ events/australia-day-awards-ceremony-2022

Australia Day Awards

Summer Fun Day

The annual Greater Dandenong Australia Day Awards recognise the outstanding contribution made by people within our community who work tirelessly to enrich the lives of others.

10am-11.30am, Wednesday 26 January at Springvale Town Hall, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Registrations essential at greaterdande-

Before we say farewell to the holidays and start school again come and join us to enjoy live entertainment from the FReeZA youth stage and try a range of sports from AFL Victoria and local sporting clubs.

Free family friendly activities include sports and circus workshops and arts and craft, as well

·

as a pop-up library tent.

11am-2pm, Wednesday 26 January at Ross Reserve, Memorial Drive, Noble Park.

·

Lunar New Year A traditional Lion Dance performance will weave around Armada Dandenong Plaza bringing good luck to all and welcoming in the Year of the Tiger.

11.30 am 1 February on Level 2, Dandenong Plaza. Details: armadadandenongplaza.com. au

·

NEWS

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Second go at life

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

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Twanny Farrugia has made it his mission to

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

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

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

Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

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.

NOBLE PARK LAUNDROMAT

12 STAR JOURNAL

Pictures: HAS MEDIA

City’s top citizen

complex grieving process for donors’ families.

“Out of one person, you have seven trans-

Affordable and Compassionate Serving Melbourne for over 75 years

12520897-BL46-21

DANDENONG

The State Government is boosting support for Aboriginal organisations that are delivering vital services to their communities throughout the pandemic.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams announced the roll-out of another key tranche of the $40 million Aboriginal Workforce Fund.

Ms Williams said the State Government would support Aboriginal organisations to determine what recovery looks like for their communities – and deliver on those priorities.

“Aboriginal organisations have led the way in supporting their communities through the challenges of the pandemic, and we’re ensuring they continue to have the skills and resources to continue this critical work,” she said.

Funding of $9 million will be shared between 25 Aboriginal organisations, with a focus on jobs, staff wellbeing and building organisations’ ability to advance self-determination and continue delivering services.

Recipients include Aboriginal organisations supporting young people, people experiencing homelessness and victim survivors of family violence.

The fund will deliver training opportunities for local Aboriginal young people, to help build the workforce pipeline.

It will also support efforts to strengthen Aboriginal organisations, such as through building specialist capabilities and strengthening leadership, governance and workforce planning.

The development of the workforce fund has been guided by a 14-member steering com-

Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams has announced the $9 million will be shared between 25 Aboriginal organisations. mittee, including key leaders from across the state, in a process that was self-determined and sector-designed and led. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

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Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 13

AUSTRALIA DAY QUIZ 0–10 Flaming Galah | 11–20 Eager Emu | 21–30 Perceptive Platypus | 31–40 Clever Kookaburra | 41–50 True Blue Cockatoo

1.

What date is Australian National Flag Day: January 26, April 11 or September 3?

2.

Which AFL team did Charles Brownlow play for?

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Which South Australian town is sometimes referred to as the ‘opal capital of the world’?

Helen Porter Mitchell was the birth name of which Australian singer?

In which year was the Australian Open first held?

12. How many Australians have been to outer space?

21. Who was the first Aboriginal Australian to publish a book of verse?

22. In which year did the VFL change its name to AFL: 1975, 1980 or 1985?

13. Who plays the title character in the 2006 mockumentary Kenny?

14. Scott Morrison is which number prime minister?

15. Boy Swallows Universe and All Our Shimmering Skies are novels by which Australian author?

16. Which simple food product is baked in a campfire and associated with colonial stockmen?

Claire G. Coleman wrote which 2017 sci-fi novel?

The Kerrigan family feature in which iconic Australian film?

What did the Europeans call Australia at the time of the First Fleet’s arrival?

Blue Neighbourhood and Bloom are albums by which Australian artist?

10. A sausage in bread bought at a polling site on election day is colloquially known as what?

11. What song received 28 per cent of the vote in the 1997 plebiscite to choose Australia’s national song?

17. Eric Bana (pictured, yellow circle) starred as Aaron Falk in which 2020 mystery drama?

23. What is the floral emblem of New South Wales?

24. What is the debut album of Tones and I (pictured, orange circle), released in 2021?

26. Which German-born Australian was known for watercolour paintings of monumental gum trees?

27. True or false: the first known reference to fairy bread was in the Hobart Mercury in 1929?

19. How many teams are playing in the A-League Women?

20. Who was the first woman to serve in the federal cabinet?

28. The Mullagh Medal is awarded to the best player at which Test match?

Nicole Kidman

30. Which animal appears on the Australian five-cent coin?

40. What is the most common pub name in Australia?

41. Founded in 1851, what is the oldest university in Australia?

31. In 2020, who became the first Indigenous artist to win the Archibald Prize?

42. The Nullarbor Plain is located in which Australian states?

32. And who features in their winning portrait?

43. Edmund Barton (pictured, green circle) was a member of which political party?

33. Which character does Nicole Kidman play in Big Little Lies?

25. Willem Janszoon was the first documented European to do what?

18. In which town is the Big Merino?

29. The Emu War took place in which state: Western Australia, Queensland or New South Wales?

44. Who is the national cricket captain?

45. The Daintree Rainforest National Park is located in which Australian state?

34. Queer Eye filmed an episode in which Australian regional town?

46. Who raised the Union Jack at Sydney Cove in January 1788?

35. In what year did Advance Australia Fair become the national anthem?

47. Which two Australian animals are monotremes?

36. And which line was recently changed to better reflect our Indigenous history?

48. Which Australian river’s name means ‘clear water’?

49. Miranda Tapsell (pictured, blue circle) starred in and co-wrote which 2019 romantic comedy?

37. Which non-Victorian AFL club has won the Grand Final most recently?

38. What Australian landmark was designed by the Danish architect Jørn Utzon?

50. How many Australian states or territories do not recognise daylight savings?

39. Who has the most ARIA Awards ever?

PUZZLES AND PAGINATION ©

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ANSWERS: 1. September 3 2. Geelong Cats 3. South Australia 4. Dame Nellie Melba 5. 1905 6. Terra Nullius 7. The Castle 8. New Holland 9. Troye Sivan 10. Democracy sausage 11. Waltzing Matilda 12. Three 13. Shane Jacobsen 14. 30 15. Trent Dalton 16. Damper 17. The Dry 18. Goulburn, NSW 19. 10 20. Enid Lyons 21. Oodgeroo Noonuccal 22. 1980 23. Waratah 24. Welcome to the Madhouse 25. Land on Australia 26. Hans Heysen 27. True 28. Boxing Day Test 29. Western Australia 30. Echidna 31. Vincent Namatjira 32. Adam Goodes and himself 33. Celeste Wright 34. Yass 35. 1974 36. ‘For we are young and free’ (to ‘For we are one and free’) 37. West Coast Eagles (2018) 38. Sydney Opera House 39. The Wiggles 40. Royal Hotel 41. University of Sydney 42. South Australia and Western Australia 43. Protectionist Party 44. Aaron Finch 45. Queensland 46. Captain Arthur Phillip 47. Echidnas and platypuses 48. River Derwent 49. Top End Wedding 50. Three

The centre letter must be included, and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

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1. Aussie greeting (1’3) 4. Ocean west of Australia (abbr) (2) 5 Either (2) 6 Broome or Yamba, for example (4)

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19 words: Good 28 words: Very good 38 words: Excellent ANSWERS: aims, airs, alias, aria, aril, impala, imparls, lair, lapis, liar, limp, limps, lira, lisp, mail, mails, maria, MARSUPIAL, pail, pair, pilau, prim, prima, primal, prism, purism, rail, rails, rial, rims, rips, sail, salami, salmi, samurai, sari, slim, slip 14 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

DOWN 1.

2.

3.

5.

Our home is — by sea (4) A party or celebration (coll) (2) Have a chat (4) Cry of pain (coll) (2)

Illustrations © Stepovaya | Dreamstime.com

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4x4 CROSSWORD

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ACROSS: 1. G’day 4. Io 5. Or 6. Town DOWN: 1. Girt 2. Do 3. Yarn 5. Ow

9-LETTER WORD

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• Noble Park Harrisfield Milkbar 519 Princes Highway • Noble Park North Halton Road Milk Bar 65 Coolavin Road • Noble Park North Jan Wilson Community Centre Halton Road (Barry J Powell Reserve) • Noble Park North Jacksons Road Service Station 139 Jacksons Road • Springvale Century 21 Real Estate Shop 5-6/64 Buckingham Avenue • Springvale Springvale Shopping Centre 46-58 Buckingham Avenue • Springvale KFL Supermarket 46-58 Buckingham Avenue (Springvale Shopping Centre) • Springvale Waltzing Matilda Hotel 856 Heatherton Road • Springvale Springvale Learning & Activities Centre 1 Osborne Avenue • Springvale Springvale RSL 23 Osborne Avenue • Springvale Caltex Woolworths Springvale 102 Police Road • Springvale Aobao Milk Bar 106 Police Road • Springvale Savemore Supermarket 774 Princes Highway • Springvale Coles Supermarket 825 Princes Highway • Springvale Sundowner Caravan & Cabin Park 870 Princes Highway • Springvale Springvale Neighbourhood House 46-50 Queens Avenue • Springvale Biggin Scott Real Estate 363 Springvale Road • Springvale Raine and Horne Real Estate 236 Springvale Road • Springvale Woolworths Supermarket 302 Springvale Road • Springvale Springvale Newsagency 321 Springvale Road • Springvale Springvale Library 411 Springvale Road • Springvale City of Greater Dandenong Customer Service Centre 397-405 Springvale Road • Springvale South Southvale Newsagency 565 Springvale Road • Springvale South Koh’s Marketplace 162-170 Athol Road (Athol Road Shopping Centre) • Springvale South BP Service Station Springvale Road & Clarke Road • Springvale South Springvale Plaza Pharmacy and Tattslotto 3/800 Heatherton Road (Springvale Plaza) • Springvale South BP Springvale 974 Heatherton Road • Wheelers Hill Mulgrave Country Club Wellington Road & Jells Road

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Looking for sewing staff/ Seamstress. $23-$25 per hour, full time or part time, located in Mitcham.

Contact Matt 0403 192 527

V Medical

12532671-SN04-22

12474326-NG50-20

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Professional Services

Curtain workroom

Professional Services

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TREE SERVICE

Caravan & Cabin Park

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5HFRQÀJXUDWLRQ RI H[LVWLQJ DQG LQVWDOODWLRQ RI QHZ ancillary equipment that may include Remote Radio Units (RRUs), GPS antennas, cabling, and other items necessary for the safety and ongoing operation of the facility;

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

Ph 9546 9587

12400498-CG38-18

C316291-KK18-5

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

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

• Replacement of three (3) existing Optus & three (3) existing VHA panel antennas for three (3) new panel antennas per Carrier (six in total) each measuring less than 2.8m in length;

HIGH TREE

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PERMANENT

★ NO BOND

• Must state how you, the submitter/objector, would be affected by the proposal.

1. The proposed upgrade to the existing facility includes: • Installation of nine new Optus & three new VHA 5G antennas (12 in total) on new mounts;

Fully Insured

FREE QUOTE

CARAVAN PARK ACCOMMODATION

• Must include the reasons for the submission/ objection; and

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE VODAFONE & OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT 1562-1568 CENTRE ROAD, SPRINGVALE VIC 3171 WITH 5G

Phone Geoff 0418 340 825

THIS MONTH ONLY

25/ 01/ 2022

• Must include the above application reference number;

Pruning Removal Stump Grinding

OFF

The date this Notice was

V To Let

• Must be sent to the Responsible Authority in writing;

Oakfern Tree Care P/L

25

PLN21/0276

Trades & Services

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

Ph Daniel 0417 336 906.

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:

V Public Notices and Event

V Tree Lopping/Surgery

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V Accommodation

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.

Celebrations

Call 0432 550 066 or 8707 5522

Pruning & Removal of Trees & Shrubs Stump Removal Hedges Mulching & Mulch Sales Full Insurance Cover

The application reference number is:

CALL 1300 666 808

Real Estate

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.

Free Quotes

Summer Special

Yamada Properties Pty Ltd

with us and get better results

MY SPACE

The restriction prohibits the registered proprietor of the Servient/Burdened Land from: (a) Constructing or placing on the Servient/Burdened Land, or nay part of the Servient/ Burdened Land, any building, item or other structure, with the exception of concrete hardstand or similar surfacing for the purpose of allowing vehicle access within the Servient/Burdened land; and

The applicant for the permit is:

ADVERTISE

- FULL BODY CARE Full body relaxation massage by young and mature asian female therapist.

Shower facility. Vanity Crt, Room 33, 249 Lonsdale St, Dandenong. Katie 0402 420 986. 0431 156 192.

Open 7 days.

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.

General Notices

DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

(b) Planting or placing on the Servient/Burdened Land, or any part of the Servient/Burdened Land, any tree, bush or other vegetation.

1238899-CG33-16

Reg No 082 1317E

ROOF RESTORATION

12475470-JW51-20 G6032580AA-dc24Jun

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Open 7 days

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The application has been amended under Section 57A of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 to vary the restrictive covenant AD298633U to be read as follows:

Motoring

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

48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B

1-19 South Park Drive DANDENONG SOUTH VIC 3175 The variation of restrictive covenant AD298633U registered on Lot 3 PS444753V pursuant to Section 23 of the Subdivision Act 1988

Buy & Sell in our

NEAT PLUMBING SERVICE Lic. Number 27186

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

$100/ 30mins

NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT

• No Fuss • No Mess • No Stress

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

No Job Too Small

$20 MILLION INSURANCE

V Pets & Services

Rainbow Dolls 1235322622-PB22-17

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DAWSONS

12400545-LB38-19

SEWER BLOCKAGES – MACHINE CLEANED฀

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12501151-NG26-21

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12496966-LB23-21

฀ ฀

1158529-PB42-14

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V Adult Services

V Public Notices and Event

12423634-SN31-19

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General Classifieds

G5855585AA-dc11Mar

Trades & Services

networkclassifieds.com.au

Employment section of Network Classifieds.

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

Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 17

SPORT

Ian Cockbain in his new colours. 265251

Picture: AAP MEDIA

Peninsula to prime time

By Marcus Uhe As the Adelaide Strikers mowed-down their target of 162 against the Sydney Sixers in their Monday Big Bash League fixture, social media was ablaze: who is Ian Cockbain?

The right-hander from Gloucestershire in the UK smashed 71 not out from 42 deliveries with five fours and four sixes after coming to the crease at 1-45 late in the fourth over, steering the Strikers to a dominant eight-wicket win and earning man-of-the-match honours.

The talented batter has since backed that performance up with another man-of-thematch performance - 65 from 38 balls - as the Strikers eliminated the highly-fancied Sydney Thunder from the BBL competition in semifinal action the MCG on Sunday night.

The Strikers are now just one win away from the grand final.

While the wider cricket community may have been unaware of his talents, grassroots circles in Melbourne have grown accustomed to the Englishman, who made a habit of spending his English winters in Australia playing cricket as an overseas pro for a number of Melbourne cricket clubs, including Buckley Ridges in the Dandenong District Cricket Association and Langwarrin in the Mornington Peninsula Cricket Association.

On Friday 14 January he added another club to that list, but this time found himself in the middle of the Adelaide Oval batting at three for the Strikers.

And he has made his presence felt – his new club is now six wins from six matches since he joined the squad.

“It’s been a bit of a whirlwind to be honest,“ he said.

Cockbain was holidaying in Adelaide with his wife Amy and son Leo when good friend and Strikers teammate Daniel Worrall informed him he had suggested Cockbain as a potential call-up as the squad battled Covid-19 and surrendered players to international duty.

The 34-year-old has earned a reputation over the last decade as a dashing middle order batsman in English County Cricket and was an inaugural member of the Welsh Fire in the first edition of the Hundred competition in 2021.

18 STAR JOURNAL

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Ian Cockbain for Buckley Ridges last year. 226905

Picture: STEW CHAMBERS

“Things sort of fell into place and then I got a phone call a couple of days later to say that I was going to be joining the squad,” Cockbain said.

He flew back to Melbourne to meet with the Strikers who were in town to play the Melbourne Stars, before following them to Queensland for their game against the Brisbane Heat on Wednesday 12 January.

Facing a crunch period of three games in four days, head coach Jason Gillespie and Strikers management moved quickly to sign Cockbain following their big win against the Heat in order to have him ready for the clash against Perth, as they battled for the Jason Gillespie Trophy.

Cockbain inked his contract on Thursday

13 January before donning the blue for the first time the following morning to face the Scorchers.

Chasing 128, he came to the crease at 1/22 with a mandate to provide stability and control the middle overs.

While wickets fell around him, an issue that had plagued the Strikers and was cited as a reason for Cockbain’s recruitment, he kept his head to finish with 35 not out from 24 deliveries, hitting the winning runs with a glorious inside-out cover drive over the infield for four.

The setting provided an element of serendipity for Cockbain; his wife is from the City of Churches and he has played club cricket for East Torrens District Cricket Club in Adelaide’s west.

Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

“I was joking with the lads that Adelaide’s been a bit of a home away from home,” Cockbain said.

“I’ve had three seasons here before and Adelaide’s always going to hold a special place in my heart with my wife being from here.

“To be straight out there and be there at the end, to see the lads home, was awesome.”

The next day he backed it up with a runa-ball 17 against the Melbourne Stars, where he went toe-to-toe with former East Torrens teammate and Australian leg spinner Adam Zampa, a key member of Australia’s recent T20 World Cup winning squad.

He was frustrated to go out in the manner he did, stumped coming down the wicket and not picking the wrong-un as it went past his outside edge, but it mattered little as the Strikers claimed a 23-run victory.

In turning out for the Strikers, Cockbain was forced to temporarily forgo his commitments to Langwarrin, missing their clash with Sorrento last weekend.

And having been signed for the remainder of the Big Bash season, his availability for the upcoming fixtures against Baden Powell and Long Island is in jeopardy.

He said it wasn’t an easy phone call to have with his coach, Matt Prosser, but they were thrilled to see him selected for higher honours.

“Everyone at the club has been super happy for me to pick up the gig at the Strikers and they’re all behind me,” Cockbain said.

“They couldn’t have been more accommodating for my wife and my little boy too.

They’ve looked after us so well.”

This is Cockbain’s first season at Langwarrin having made the move from Buckley Ridges in the off-season.

He enjoyed a fine 2020/21 season for Buckley Ridges, averaging 42 from seven innings with a highest score of 95 not out against Springvale South, and placed in the top 20 of voting for the Alan Wookey Medal, awarded to the player who received the most umpires’ votes throughout the season.

The Strikers - one of only three teams left in the competition - will next take on the Sydney Sixes for a place in this season’s grand final. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

A fuelled football journey

By Tyler Lewis The ever-growing NAB League Girls season has arrived and it will feature 10 home and away rounds ahead of a bumper finals series.

The finals series dates are yet to be confirmed, but at this stage are just two semifinals on the weekend of April 2-3, before the grand final the following week on April 9-10.

The first two fixtures, one of which begun yesterday, are earmarked as ‘future rounds’, with the under-16 sides going into battle in curtain raisers ahead of the under-18 competition.

And while the excitement is understandably bubbling, local club Dandenong Stingrays have drawn an unbelievably demanding draw.

The girls road trip to Geelong yesterday was made easier by the glamorous result, defeating the Falcons in style, 10.9 (69) to 3.3 (21).

After the trip to Geelong, the Rays are then also required to play in Craigieburn and Benalla, all in its first five outings.

Of the nine matches, the girls are currently holding two ‘home games’, which are being played at Frankston Dolphin’s VFL ground, Skybus Stadium.

The Rays do not train out of their traditional home - Shepley Oval - over the course of their season, due to the cricket club making use of the ground.

But if they were to travel to each of the grounds they are playing at this season from Shepley Oval, it would be a whopping total of 1426 kilometres of travel to and from their fixtured venues for just nine games.

FIXTURE: R1 January 23: Geelong Falcons vs Dandenong Stingrays (DUG – Deakin Uni, Geelong) 1:00pm R2 January 29: Gippsland Power vs Dandenong Stingrays (CRR – Churchill Recreation Reserve, Benalla) 10:00am R3 February 6: Dandenong Stingrays vs Bendigo Pioneers (HRR – Highgate Recreation Reserve, Craigieburn) 11:00am

· · ·

Nick Cox and his leadership group will spend plenty of time in the car together this season.

February 12: Dandenong Stingrays vs MurEastern Ranges (Frankston Park) 11:00am leigh Chargers (TBC) · R4 ray Bushrangers (Frankston Park) 2:00pm R7 March 4: Sandringham Dragons vs DanMarch 19: Northern Knights vs Dande· denong Stingrays (Trevor Barker Oval, San- · R9 February 19: GWV Rebels vs Dandenong nong Stingrays (Parade College, Bundoora) · R5 dringham) Stingrays (MARS Stadium, Ballarat) 12:00pm 2:00pm · R6 February 27: Dandenong Stingrays vs · R8 March 11: Dandenong Stingrays vs Oak- · R10 March 27: bye

Brave bowlers fall short of the target

By Tyler Lewis A righteous tail wag from the Dandenong bowlers wasn’t enough for the Panthers to steal victory from the hands of Geelong.

The last time the two sides met was back in April, when Dandenong somehow revived from 6/82 to 7/223, stealing that elusive grand final position from the Cats on their home track.

Yesterday, in reply to Geelong’s 8/245, the Dandenong side was 6/93 and then 7/129, before leg-spinner Gehan Seneviratne and speedster Braden Taueber combined for an almost match-saving partnership, boosting the final total to 221. Seneviratne – who has

been known to chime in cleverly with the blade this year – carted 46 from 49 deliveries, while Taueber belted 52 from 56.

The knock of 52 from Taueber was a brilliant shock for the home side, with the rightarmer scoring just 23 runs from his last four Premier Cricket hits.

But despite the heroics of the Dandenong bowlers, the hill was too steep to climb by the late stages of the match, being dismissed in the final over for 221.

Similarly to last weekend against Essendon, the Panthers struggled to take clumps of wickets in the early overs of the first innings.

The Cats were 1/36, 2/75, 3/102 and 4/186, before the Panthers were finally able

Gehan Seneviratne is having a fine season with both bat and ball this summer. 265778 dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Picture: DANDENONG STINGRAYS MEDIA

to break-through and claim three sharp wickets.

It was Matt Wilson once again that cracked through, dismissing both set batters to lower the expected target.

The right-arm seamer was able claim three wickets, but was going at a nudge under a run-a-ball from his nine overs (3/51).

While they’re only five points from the top eight, the back-to-back defeats cuts deep for the Panthers, who now sit back in 13th.

Next rounds grand final re-match looms as a do-or-die clash for both Dandenong and Prahran (12th), as a loss to another team in that finals race at this point in time could prove costly.

Picture: TYLER LEWIS

Randy on fire

By Luke Corda Up-and-coming sprinter Hamillson further promoted his ‘track specialist’ status at Sandown Park with a victory in Thursday night’s Free-For-All. ‘Randy’, as he’s known at home, improved his Sandown record to a stunning six wins from eight starts and boasts an overall record of 14 wins from 24 starts.

Trainer Richard Hill was extremely proud of his boy.

“He’s unbelievable our Randy,” said Hill.

“He’s very talented. In fact, it’s more natural talent than training. He’s just very special.”

Trained from a residential block on the Mornington Peninsula, Hamillson is quickly becoming one of the most reliable beginners the sport has to offer.

His excellent box manners earned him a placing in last Friday’s Warragul Cup final.

“He’s always over the odds but if you look at his record it makes him an outlier. He’s too reliable to be $5 for a place,” Hill said.

Hill and Hamillson will look to target next Thursday’s Australia Sprint special event at Sandown Park along with its $15,000 first prize.

Earlier in the night the Andrea Daillytrained Fabriola Ximenez pulled out a careerbest performance to topple Group 1 winner and kennelmate Zippy Tesla in a best-of-night 29.24.

Hamillson poses with his proud connections after his Free-For-All win at Sandown on Thursday night. 265788 Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 19

4 year old Funded Kindergarten

Prep to Year 9

Child Care

Adult Educa�on

Playgroups

3 year old Funded Kindergarten

A�er School Engagement & Enrichment Program

MCHN, GP & Paediatric Services

62 Tristania Street Doveton 3177 w. dovetoncollege.vic.edu.au p. 8765 0111 e. doveton.co@educa on.vic.gov.au

12508581-BL34-21

20 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 25 January, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au