Dandenong Star Journal - 26th April 2022

DANDENONG

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

/DandenongJournal

@StarJournal_SE

40¢ Inc. GST

Toasting 40 years of service

Old red rattler back on track

Community Support Fund launch

PAGE 2

PAGE 4

PAGE 12

PAGE 20

12496498-DL22-21

Decision on waste energy plan

Tributes to the Anzacs Dandenong conducted a successful Anzac Day Dawn Service at the Pillars of Freedom.

Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL President John Wells was pleased to see crowds back, 107 years after the Gallipoli landings, able to pay their respects to fallen servicemen and women for the first time since 2019.

Anzac Coverage pages 9, 10 And 20 President John Wells gave the Anzac requiem.

Picture: JONTY RALPHSMITH

Backflip on pool

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Federal candidates of all stripes are pledging support for Casey Council’s “change of heart” $21 million proposed upgrade of Doveton’s historic community pool.

Once slated for destruction, the 50-metre pool would be renewed, along with the Pool in the Park main building and car park.

The upgraded parkland would include splash-play and made accessible year-round.

The three smaller pools would be demolished.

On 19 April, the council committed $10.5 million while seeking the remainder from state and federal governments.

Last year, Bruce MP Julian Hill – along with residents, sport and residents’ groups – was outraged by the council’s original shock pro-

posal to demolish the pools and replace them with parkland. Mr Hill said he was “overjoyed the council has had a change of heart and listened to the Doveton community”.

“I will work with the community to fight for funding as the design and business case are completed,” the Labor MP said.

“The Liberals have done nothing for Doveton and just make hollow promises, but if a Federal Labor Government is elected I am very confident that the Doveton Pool in the Park will receive funding.”

The federal ALP recently pledged $20 million towards an $83 million revamp of Dandenong Oasis aquatic centre and an upgrade of Noble Park Aquatic Centre. Liberal candidate James Moody said if elected, he’d advocate for federal support for Doveton pool.

“Speaking to residents of Doveton I know

THURSDAY 19th MAY 2 Course Dinner & Show $65 @ 6.00pm Show Only $40 @ 7.30pm Mulgrave Country Club cnr Jells & Wellington Rds, Wheelers Hill 03 9582 4600 | www.mulgravecc.com.au 12540260-HC17-22

Booking website www.trybooking.com

just how dissatisfied they were that the pool was being demolished “It was another blow to Doveton and another instance of it being left behind.

“With this commitment I am now able to, if elected, advocate for support for this project federally - something Doveton desperately needs and has not received across the suburb over the last few years.

“This is the change I will bring to Doveton and surrounds which is why I’ve already met with clubs like the Doveton Football Club, Doveton Cricket Club and Dandenong Cricket Club.” Greens candidate Matthew Kirwan welcomed Casey’s response to the “huge community groundswell”.

“An incoming Federal Government should make a significant financial contribution as this is the heart and soul of Doveton.”

State MP Gabrielle Williams, the member for Dandenong, said any funding requests will “form part of future budget processes”.

“The Doveton Pool proposal has significantly improved from the initial plans that were put forward last year.

“There remains further detailed planning work to do and I look forward to working alongside Council and our federal government representatives to progress the plan in the time ahead.”

Greg Pargeter, whose late father and former mayor Syd Pargeter was a driving force to build the pool in the 1960’s, said the council’s reversal was due to “community power”.

A council survey last year found 94 per cent of respondents were in favour of keeping the pool.

Continued page 7

Will &

Deceased Estate Lawyers Preparation of Wills and Power of Attorney Kit

CONTESTED WILLS

Prompt and expert preparation of probate applications

Hundreds of successful cases on no win–no fee basis

CALL 0419 993 800

www.nealcollinlawyers.com.au 12517231-SG43-21

NEWS

‘No’ to waste plan

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Greater Dandenong Council report has recommended not signing up to a joint-council consortium’s waste-to-energy plant in the South East subject to further information.

The report has cast doubt on the South East Metropolitan Advanced Waste Processing Pty Ltd project, set up to address rising costs of landfill and a looming landfill shortage.

It binds member councils to supplying a minimum waste tonnage over 25 years.

Greater Dandenong councillors are set to vote on whether to sign the contract on 26 April.

Among a raft of concerns, the report recommends that the council should first seek assurance that the facility will not be located in Greater Dandenong.

“In the event that the preferred site is abandoned and if the next preferred site is located within the Greater Dandenong City Council’s municipal area, this Council will withdraw from the procurement process.”

In 2021, approval was granted for a wasteto-energy plant in Ordish Road, Dandenong South, despite Greater Dandenong Council’s opposition.

The SEMAWP’s “preferred site” in the South East has yet to be announced.

The report also raised concerns about “significant matters” that had not yet been fully answered.

Such as financial risk, gate fee costs, minimum waste tonnage requirements and the impact on recycling and waste-minimising efforts.

“Without the clarification of these matters as outlined in the report, the risk to council to continue at this stage is too high.

“It is therefore appropriate that Council advise that at this time it unable to commit, until those matters of concern are resolved.”

An illustration of the proposed waste-to-energy plant approved by VCAT and the EPA for Ordish Road, Dandenong South.

Mayor Jim Memeti said he would not support the facility if located in Greater Dandenong, though “I don’t have a problem with waste-to-energy”.

He said the 25-year contract was “one of the biggest decisions the council will make”.

“It’s raised a lot of alarm bells. There’s a lot of concerns, a lot of questions. I’m not happy to proceed at the moment.”

Councillor Rhonda Garad said member councils might be exposed to “serious” financial risk if the project fell over. Or exposed to penalties if they couldn’t supply the minimum waste tonnage.

“It flies in the face of where our waste policies are heading.

“We may be paying for a technology we won’t be using – exactly like a desal plant.

“I’m extremely concerned about the health and environmental harms.

“Even if it’s not in Dandenong, the council is on the record of not supporting waste-toenergy technology. It would be hypocritical to support it.”

Just seven of 15 SEMAWP shareholder councils have committed to the contract.

Frankston and Greater Dandenong are set to vote on whether to sign up on 26 April.

Mornington Peninsula Shire has deferred its decision for three months, and Boroondara, Glen Eira, Monash, Manningham and Stonnington have withdrawn.

“If a majority of Councils choose to not commit to the project, the project is unlikely to proceed,” the report stated.

However, elsewhere in the report, it states that the project depends on a minimum waste supply rather than a quota of member councils.

According to the council, the nearest landfill in Hampton Park may close as early as 2025.

The risk of not signing onto the contract is that the council would not be able to send its waste to the facility or would be charged a more expensive gate free.

The advanced waste technology has yet to be finalised but is thought to involve a wasteto-energy incinerator. A successful tenderer has yet to be chosen.

Each tonne diverted from landfill to a waste-to-energy plant is said to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 0.4 tonnes and generate 0.6 MegaWatt hours of electricity.

Charity launch A new charity and social enterprise launched on Friday 22 April in Dandenong.

Collective Impact is a not-for-profit Social Enterprise comprising charities and businesses from Greater Dandenong, is committed to helping ‘at risk’ youth create a better future through the power of mentoring and employment.

Collective Impact brings together a range of services, including marketing, design, print, mail, distribution, and much more, to create real jobs and give young people access to life changing mentors.

Collective Impact works in conjunction with Social Engine and Big Brothers Big Sisters Australia.

Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams and City of Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti were guest speakers at the launch.

The Journal will publish more information about the launch in the coming weeks.

Collective Impact launched on Friday 22 April.

We’re backing your small business with $20,000 wage subsidies.

If you’re looking for staff, Jobs Victoria is backing your small business with a range of free services and wage subsidies for eligible employees.

Backing Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne. Check coronavirus.vic.gov.au for the latest COVIDSafe Settings.

2 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

12536518-JC17-22

Learn more at jobs.vic.gov.au/subsidy or call 1300 208 575.

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Rates set to rise Greater Dandenong residents’ rate bills will rise on average by $14 under the council’s draft 2022-’23 budget.

The average bill is up from $1477 to $1491 – including a $28 rise in the waste charge.

The residential rates component alone was down $14 on average.

Soaring property values resulted in industrial properties absorbing the brunt of rate rises – up 6.6 per cent.

At the same time, residential and commercial rates were down 2.2 per cent and 3 per cent respectively.

Overall rate rises were limited by the State Government rate cap of 1.75 per cent.

The council’s $55.6 million capital works program will include $12.5 million for roads, $10.7 m of stage 2 of Keysborough South Community Hub and a $4.3 million widening of Perry Road, Keysborough.

million for reconstructing the damaged · $2.5 athletics track at Ross Reserve million for stage 2 widening of Abbotts · $2.5 Road, Dandenong South million to start construction on the $83 · $1.8 million Dandenong Wellbeing Centre (formerly Dandenong Oasis pool) Upgrades are also planned for Rosewood Downs Primary School’s kindergarten and maternal and child health facilities, Vanity Lane in Dandenong, and Frederick Wachter Reserve.

Detailed designs for the proposed Dandenong Sports and Event Centre stadium, Dandenong Community Hub, a table tennis centre, and a Barry Powell Reserve pavilion have also been funded.

The budget bottom line is still being impacted by the Covid pandemic, according to council papers.

“Council remains in a steady financial position for 2022-23 through sound and prudent

leadership by Council and its staff, although this will continue to be tested by the compounding effect of rate capping and COVID-19 after-effects.

“It is still unclear when Council income, such as from leisure services, parking, Dandenong Market, civic facilities and performing arts centre, The Drum Theatre will return to pre-pandemic ‘normal’ usage levels.”

The income shortfall is being covered by a $398,000 cut in capital works.

Mayor Jim Memeti said the council’s services were still being delivered despite Covid impacts costing $42 million in the past two years.

“We’re hoping lockdowns are finished, and we’re getting on with business.”

He said more than half of Greater Dandenong’s rate revenue came from the industrial and commercial sectors.

The draft budget will be publicly exhibited from May 3-31.

The final version will be adopted by the council on 27 June.

Bombardier staff unveiling a locally-built E-class tram in 2017.

Bombardier to build 100 new trams One hundred accessible trams are set to be built in Dandenong as part of a $1.85 billion State Government project.

The Government says the Next Generation Trams Project will support up to 1900 local jobs in manufacturing, the supply chain and building a purpose-built depot and maintenance facility.

Dandenong-based Bombardier Transportation Australia – which was acquired by Alstrom in January – was awarded the contract.

The project includes a 65 per cent local content quota – the biggest since rolling stock local content quotas were introduced, the Government stated.

It will also be subject to a “competitive design and tender process”.

“We’re proud to build trams and trains in Victoria, by Victorians – supporting thou-

sands of jobs and improving our public transport network,” Premier Daniel Andrews said.

The trams’ designs will be refined in consultation with accessibility groups, passengers and tram drivers.

They will replace Melbourne’s oldest high-floor trams.

Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams said the “historic investment” would provide a “much-needed boost to the local economy”.

South East Melbourne Manufacturers’ Alliance chief executive Vonda Fenwick was “delighted” with the news.

“Bombardier and the entire local supply chain centred in the South East will benefit from this project. “Our SEMMA members have enormous capability and experience in the rolling stock sector which will support the success of this project to deliver the Next Gen Trams for Victoria.”

Opposition public transport spokesperson Steph Ryan said the long-awaited project had blown out by nearly $400 million in the past 12 months.

“A growing proportion of the current tram fleet is ancient and inaccessible, with officials warning for years there’s ‘considerable’ risks to safety and service delivery,” Ms Ryan said.

“But the Andrews Government has sat on its hands for years while commuters battle worsening conditions on trams that are close to half a century old and not wheelchair-accessible.

“Labor can’t manage major projects and today’s window dressing – which appears to be hundreds of millions of dollars over budget already – is cold comfort for the Victorians who are forced to travel on the ageing rolling stock that’s no longer fit-forpurpose.”

Peter Rabbit

N

O TI

Animated Peter Rabbit Soft Plush Toy 22cm

49 CASON CRESCENT, WARRAGUL GRAND, LUXURIOUS & PERFECT! Total quality throughout this stunning lifestyle property on 2578m2 Truly grand home ~67sq url. Designed allowing time to enjoy the finer things in life while being low maintenance. Blissfully easy!

Summers by the pool, entertaining in total privacy of your own outdoors where every inch has been meticulously planned. The outdoor spa with a view, relaxing fountains, firepits, pergola inc pendulant lights imported from Italy, limestone pavers & not to forget the ever so tranquil Japanese garden… Relaxing should be this easy… Run your business from home with large office, additional studio, gym, separate guest accommodation & additional parking. Want for nothing. The best of all worlds is on offer to you at 49 Cason Crescent Warragul.

0356 223 800 | 71 QUEEN STREET WARRAGUL

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Visit networkclassifieds.com.au Email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au Phone 5945 0600

Order now on aussietoysonline.com.au

12544928-CG15-22

Contact Agent: Miranda Pike 0404 193 205 or Patty McInnes 0488 257 874

com.au

REAL ESTATE Email seren@starnewsgroup.com.au

$15.00 12546207-DL17-22

AUCTION – ONLINE & ON-SITE FRIDAY 6TH MAY @11.OOAM Terms: 10% deposit – Settlement 90/120 days

An alleged suspended teen driver accused of reaching speeds of up to 180 km/h during a police pursuit in the South East has been refused bail.

James Arthur, 19, from Narre Warren, faced a bail hearing at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 21 April on charges including dangerous driving while pursued by police.

He was withdrawing from “drugs of addiction”, the court heard.

Victoria Police remand liaison officer Steve Goldman told the court that police spotted a grey Volkswagen Golf with no number plates in Maramba Drive, Narre Warren about 2.20am that day.

The previous night, it had been driven in fast convoy with a stolen Hyundai i30 and evading police in Hallam, Sen Const Goldman said.

The VW was pursued by Air Wing and ground units in Endeavour Hills, Doveton, Hallam, Clematis, Selby and Belgrave for about 30 minutes.

It reached high speeds up to 180 km/h in residential streets, police told the court.

The vehicle came to a halt on Stud Road, Dandenong North after police stop-sticks took out the passenger-side tyres on Wellington Road, Rowville.

Mr Arthur and a male passenger were arrested in a backyard of a nearby house, with the help of the Dog Squad and Critical Incident Response Team, the court heard.

Police allege they could identify Arthur from Air Wing footage due to his distinctive mullet and bandage on his right arm.

Mr Arthur told police that he’d bought the Golf. There was no evidence that it had been stolen, the court heard.

At the time, the young father was on bail over an alleged shop theft.

Sen Const Goldman said the Hyundai had been stolen in an aggravated burglary on 19 April.

It had since been allegedly involved in an attempted agg burg and attempted car thefts by a group of six males in Carrum on 19 April, as well as failing to stop on Monash Freeway, he said.

Magistrate Julie O’Donnell said there were “compelling reasons” for Mr Arthur’s bail such as his youthfulness, a favourable CISP bail assessment and family support.

But he was an unacceptable risk to public safety given his prior “high risk” offending and being already on bail at the time, Ms O’Donnell said.

She didn’t accept the defence argument that Mr Arthur was unlikely to face jail for the alleged driving. It posed a “grave risk” to others’ safety.

Bail conditions such as curfew, a ban on driving, reporting to police were also offered by defence lawyer Farah Banahali.

“I’m not satisfied that CISP (supervision) alone can mitigate that risk,” Ms O’Donnell said.

Mr Arthur was remanded to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 6 May. It was said to be his first time in adult custody.

starcommunity.com.au CONTACT US Phone: 5945 0666 ADVERTISING Visit starcommunity.com.au/advertise Email advertising@starnewsgroup.com.au Phone 5945 0666 EDITORIAL Email dailyeditor@starnewsgroup.com.au

C

AU

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

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

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution PROUDLY numbers, areas and coverage are estimates AUSTRALIAN OWNED & only. For our terms and conditions please visit INDEPENDENT www.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

|

12452271-SN26-20

Other highlights include:

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Bail refused after pursuit

STAR JOURNAL 3

NEWS

Marking Terry’s 40 years

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Terry poses for a photo with his family: Lauren, his grandkids and Julie.

Cameron Bertalli (CEO and MD Patterson Cheney), John Spizzirri (Company Secretary), Terry Jewson, David Cheney (Former Dealer Principal Patterson Cheney Trucks).

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Cameron Bertalli (CEO and managing director Patterson Cheney) with Terry Jewson.

FSA/DETS932

Patterson Cheney Isuzu celebrated an employee’s 40 years of service with a lunch and presentation on Tuesday 19 April.

Now dealer principal, Terry Jewson got involved with Toyota Commercial in April 1982 as a light commercial sales cadet, three months before the business was bought by Patterson Cheney, who has been his employer ever since.

His mate’s Dad, Alan Weston, the then used truck manager, took Terry under his wing and showed him the ropes at a time when Terry was considerably younger than his colleagues.

“I was willing to say I’ll get in and learn this – so that’s what I did,” Terry said.

“I didn’t go into the business thinking that I was going to become dealer principal. I just did my job every day and the more you practice, the better you get.

“I wanted to give this a go and see where it took me.

“I was lucky that I enjoyed what I was doing quite a lot and I got to meet different people all the time.

Julie, Terry’s wife, was also recognised in speeches throughout the presentation for her unwavering support across the journey. Terry has been instrumental in significant developments for Patterson Cheney, including taking over Westar Isuzu and Western Star in Dandenong, Derrimut and Campbellfield designing and building the new dealership in Derrimut.

Terry remembers first encountering Isuzu trucks as a used vehicle salesman, hailing their resale value and 40 years later, his zest for the industry still strong. “Customers haven’t changed what they want. They want a product that’s reliable, that doesn’t let them down, and they want ease of service. With truck models, that’s just evolution. At the end of the day, a customer focus is what it’s all about. We offer a 24-hour service facility and the reason we do that is so we can service our customers and ensure less downtime for them too.”

Three-Year-Old Kinder: the best start for Victorian kids.

To dream big, our kids need the best start in life.

Children are eligible for between 5 and 15 hours per week of funded Three-Year-Old Kinder, no matter where they live.

Find your local kinder program at vic.gov.au/kinder

4 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

12546597-JW17-22

Enrolments are opening now for Three-Year-Old Kinder in 2023.

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Trademark bid a ‘snow-go’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong Council’s attempt to trademark its Springvale Snowfest event has been refused by the Australian Trade Marks Office (ATMO).

The council sought to trademark the word ‘Snowfest’ in an attempt to “enhance the popular Springvale event’s online presence”, community services acting director Tilla Buden said.

“The annual winter festival is a hallmark event in council’s community calendar with people coming from across the state to experience the event’s atmosphere and unique family-friendly activations.”

The council first unsuccessfully applied to register the ‘Snowfest’ trademark in June 2020.

The ATMO deemed that the trade mark describing a “festival featuring snow” could not be distinguished from similar events by other traders.

“Other traders should be able to use ‘Snowfest’ in connection with goods or services similar to yours.”

Greater Dandenong Council has sought to trademark its annual ‘Snowfest’ event in Springvale.

195902 Picture: ROB CAREW In a recent decision, ATMO delegate Nicholas Barbey concurred with the rejection.

Much of the event’s branding appeared to be “Springvale Snowfest” not “Snowfest,”

Mr Barbery noted.

The council had claimed that the ‘Snowfest’ name had been used to promote an event “very well known within the south east Mel-

bourne suburbs and broader Victoria”.

Mr Barbery found the festival’s attendances had plateaued since 2016, and its advertising was “modest” and mainly locallybased.

The festival had been promoted on the council’s Facebook and Instagram accounts, not on a dedicated ‘Snowfest’ account.

“In any event, the number of followers of each account is by no means significant,” Mr Barbery stated.

Similarly, the council’s Snowfest videos on YouTube reached up to 283 views in 2018 and 229 views in 2019.

The council had not addressed its “intended future use” of the trademark, Mr Barbery stated.

The award-winning Springvale Snowfest has been held annually since July 2013, including snow brought in from Mt Buller, ice skating, live music, rides and fireworks.

Ms Buden said Greater Dandenong was seeking further legal advice on the “next steps in the trademark application process”.

Two arrested after South East suburbs evade Casey Crime Investigation Unit detectives have arrested two men in Dandenong North after a sedan was seen driving erratically across Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs early this morning.

Police were initially alerted to the grey Volkswagen Golf with no registration plates in Josephine Avenue, Narre Warren about 2.20am.

The Air Wing assisted ground units in

tracking the vehicle, which at times allegedly travelled at excessive speeds along Heatherton Road, Belgrave- Hallam Road and Wellington Road.

Stop sticks were deployed on Wellington Road, Rowville and the vehicle stopped in Stud Road, Dandenong North.

Officers from the Dog Squad and Critical Incident Response Team located the men in the rear yard of a nearby residential address.

A 19-year-old Narre Warren man has been charged with dangerous driving whilst being pursued by police, reckless conduct endangering life, driving in a dangerous manner, speeding in a dangerous manner, failure to have proper control of a motor vehicle, driving whilst suspended and committing an indictable offence whilst on bail.

He will appear at the Dandenong Magistrates’ Court today.

A 29-year-old Cranbourne North man has been interviewed and released pending further enquiries.

Detectives are investigating whether the vehicle was involved in other offences across Melbourne’s East and South-eastern suburbs.

Anyone who saw the Volkswagen, or who has dash-cam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestoppersvic.com.au

GS U R L L A F F O % 0 5 !

-ONE DAY ONLY

BE PART OF THE FUN AS WE HOST A LIVE BROADCAST OF SEN’S OFF THE BENCH AT OUR STORE FROM 9AM, SAT 30TH APRIL! Join AFL’s reporter of the year, Craig Hutchison alongside Player Manager and former AFL footballer, Liam Pickering from 9am – 12pm.

(nank the ta

g liam pickerin (Pickers)

meet an

ison CRAig hutch

on! afl champi

(Hutchy)

*10% off product

sit to be

only price, depo

paid on the day

CHOICES FLOORING AT DANDY 68 AMBERLEY CRESCENT, DANDENONG dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

VID protocols ility subject to CO

**Player availab

** 12545552-SN17-22

• Meet Toby Nankervis, Richmond Co-Captain • See the latest designs in flooring • Free mini footballs • Discounted rugs 50% off in-store • Free carpet rolls - limited stock only • PLUS 10% off all flooring*

vis toby NAnkernk)

9791 9422 choicesflooring.com.au Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

|

STAR JOURNAL 5

Here’s how you can stay COVIDSafe every day

Wear a mask when required.

Keep windows and doors open.

And get tested if you have any symptoms.

Get your third dose now, to protect yourself and everyone you love.

STAY

COVIDSAFE EVERY DAY CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

12546826-HC17-22

6 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Doveton pool saved

By Marcus Uhe The City of Casey is calling on the State and Federal Governments to “come on a journey” with it to upgrade and maintain the Doveton Pool.

In a motion moved at the Tuesday 19 April council meeting, the council published its Doveton Pool in the Park Master Plan, which included a renewal of the 50-metre pool, main building and car park, along with the demolition of the Gambetta room and three small pools.

The council is seeking a combined minimum commitment of 50 per cent of funding for the project from the Federal and State Governments, to the value of $10.5 million.

The concept plan and costing indicated up to $21.14 million in funding was required to redevelop the Doveton Pool in the Park site. The report says Council’s Capital Works Program would not have the capacity to deliver in full.

“This is to not build a new pool but to work with what’s there, to improve it, to bring it up to date, to ensure it’s safe and fit to purpose for many years into the future,” Administrator Miguel Belmar said.

“It will be a facility that will not only be a pool, but it will be a pool, a waterpark and facility available on a year-round basis, on more than just appropriate days where it is appropriate to open the facility.

“We’ve listened to the community and understood where the community would like this project to go, and we are hopeful, more than hopeful, that in future, we will be able to carry out the work with other levels of government to ensure that the Casey community is provided with this important outdoor facility, and on that basis I am happy to move this motion.”

Chair of Administrators Noelene Duff said it was an excellent outcome.

“One of the features... that I was very keen to ensure occurred was opening the site to the broader community, not just a facility that was fenced and closed for most of the year,” Ms Duff said.

“If we’re going to invest in it, we’re going to make sure that the investment is well-placed.

“Council has made a commitment and we now strongly seek the support of the State

The City of Casey has revealed its Doveton Pool in the Park Master Plan. and Federal Government.”

A council proposal to demolish the pool in March 2021 drew outrage from locals, including the Doveton Eumemmerring Township Association, and Federal Bruce MP Julian Hill, who said “it should be no surprise if the community fights back,” should the council ignore the community feedback.

The proposal was raised on the basis that the 12,347 population of Doveton Eumemmerring was too small to justify a $40 million redevelopment, including an indoor pool.

The backlash informed the Council’s decision making, Ms Duff said.

“The feedback from community was un-

mistakeable and consistent that public wanted the pool maintained,” she said.

“The panel has acknowledged this and committed to providing $10.5 million to improving the pool and environment and providing the new facilities.”

Further work will be undertaken to determine season length and operating hours of the facility, the council said.

A copy of the Doveton Pool in the Park Master Plan can be found in the Casey Council’s Tuesday 19 April meeting agenda at casey.vic. gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-04/Agenda Council Meeting - 19 April 2022 - Latest Version.pdf

Pool rescue supported From page 1 It was time for state and federal governments to invest in the health and well-being of the Doveton and Eumemmerring communities, Mr Pargeter said.

“The local MPs need to demonstrate their commitment to one of the most disadvantaged communities in South East Melbourne.

“I think this will be money well invested and the benefits will be enjoyed by future generations.”

An Doveton-Eumemmerring Township Association spokesperson Sean Balfour was “ecstactic“ while watching the council’s administrators endorse the proposal.

“I’m over the moon. We have to now get the funding from state and federal governments.

“Regardless, the council now has a plan not to remove the pool.”

With the permanent waterslide to be demolished, Mr Balfour hoped there would be inflatable waterslides still on offer.

The upgraded plant room should provide solar or alternative-powered heating for the pool, he said.

Mr Balfour also welcomed potentially a longer open season for the pool, though that was yet to be finalised.

Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association spokesperson Brendan Browne was “reasonably happy” but “we still don’t have a guaranteed outcome”.

“We are certainly hoping that some funding will come from other levels of government, because that pool is an important part of the community and it’s been allowed to run down over a number of years.

“It is important that as new housing developments go up in Casey, that the older areas are not forgotten about and don’t lose out to cost-cutting by the Council.”

Dandenong woman’s fortunes take a dramatic turn A Dandenong woman who was stood down from her travel industry job at the beginning of the pandemic is now embracing her new millionaire status after scoring division one in Monday & Wednesday Lotto.

The Melbourne resident held one of the four division one winning entries in Monday & Wednesday Lotto draw 4174, drawn Monday 18 April 2022 and takes home a total prize of $1,001,446.30.

Speaking with an official from The Lott this morning, the Victorian player relayed how she discovered her life-changing windfall.

“Oh my god! I’m so nervous!” she happily cried.

“I was on the couch with my husband, and we were watching television before bed. I thought to myself, ‘Oh, I haven’t checked my lottery ticket. I’d better go do it.”

“At first, I thought I’d won $1,000 because I couldn’t see the all the draw numbers. I said to my husband, ‘I’ve won $1,000!’.

“But then, I saw the sixth number come up, and that’s when I realised I’d won division one!

I started screaming, shaking, crying. I couldn’t believe it.

“We couldn’t sleep at all last night. I kept thinking, ‘Maybe I didn’t really win? Is it real?

Have I read this wrong?’. All these thoughts

were running through my head, and I didn’t get to sleep until 3am.

“I called my children on FaceTime as soon as I found out, and they didn’t believe me – I think they do now.

“It’s been a struggle since being stood down from my travel job at the beginning of the pandemic. I’ve been searching for a new career route, but it’s been so much harder than I thought.

“This will help us tremendously, and I can feel a sense of relief after searching high and low for a new job. I can’t believe it.”

When asked how she planned to enjoy her

good fortune, the Victorian mum said she couldn’t wait to help her children.

“I’ll always prioritise my children, so the prize will mainly go to them,” she shared.

“It will give them a great boost and look after their future plans, especially after the pandemic!”

Her winning marked System 7 entry was purchased online at thelott.com – the official home of Australia’s lotteries.

The winning numbers in Monday & Wednesday Lotto draw 4174 on Monday 18 April 2022 were 7, 3, 6, 25, 28, 11, while the supplementary numbers were 17 and 30.

DIRECT TO PUBLIC OUTLET • NOW OPEN • MAY SPECIALS • Fresh quality poultry processed daily on site now selling direct-to-public • Hormone Free and no added chemicals • 3rd Generation Family Business for over 57 years

Opening Hours: 8am - 4pm Monday - Friday.

8:30am - 1pm Saturday.

Closed Sunday.

Whole Maryland $3.99/kg (min 5kg)

Breast Schnitzels 4 for $12

12546514-AI17-22

• Eggs and specialty foods available

82-86 Kirkham Road West, Keysborough VIC 3173 • 9798 2437 • www.starpoultry.com.au dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

|

STAR JOURNAL 7

It’s time for fast and fair climate action hip. isive leaders c e d d n a e day – ert advic we make to value of exp s e n th io s is u c t e e h d g ic has tau nces of the we tackle th The pandem ill inherit the conseque e pandemic, and how nw om th Our childre e recover fr w w o h t u o b nging e. decisions a mate chang lity of a cha r li a c f re o e t a th re e c global th re on ou lready fa -east, we a 019/2020 summer we th e is u o s ’s e e2 sea level ris ourn th d lb f n e o a M s r, e in re fi rd h re a He us h e bus been hitting e destructiv climate. Th ghts and storms have entury. rou a burbs this c u s doorstep, d r u o energy, and cal te p a a d e n h u c in d n to ing politi s, clean a projected , our incom h good job n e it p w p a t, h h g re ri this futu can be b all. To make Our future r fo t n e m iron of healthy env the burning t: – s u e g m n s a e h v c ti to climate representa y 2030 ontribution c t s e le energy b g b ig a b w ’s e a n ri re to n ic V 0% clea • Address decade g it with 10 in c la p ollution this re p y b te a m li c coal – h n to slas om national pla od bowls fr le fo ib d d n a re c s a m ecosyste • Legislate nd precious a t n a rt o p ur most im d build • Protect o pliances, an ate p m a li c ic g tr c in le g e n a ies to all the ch t communit nd efficient s a a e y h lt th a u e o h s ith ing ur homes w nergy projects – allow nergy • Retrofit o e le b own clean e ir newa e re th y it m n o u fr m com profits e and retain produce, us

An open letter to political candidates from residents and organisations in Melbourne’s south-east

Signed by ...

Vicky Karitinos Professor Alan Reid Kenneth Seidenman Rebecca Sturgeon Dilip Banthia Lachlan Mackenzie Sue Barrell Jibon Sen Gopal Verma David Power David Arnott

Amreek Singh Madhulika Banthia Shraddha Banthia Rajiv Sachdev Teresa Hicks Suzanne D’Ombrain-Allain Mahabub Ahmed Shajuty Islam A.R.M.Fazlul Karim Imtenan Sayeed Mohammed Islam

Mohammed Tazuddin Shamsuz Zaman Rafayet Rahman Mohammad Wohab Tim D’Ombrain AnneMaree Jones Emma Tonkin Matthew Miller Mohan Jit Sodhi Sury Soni Georgina Gartland

Ruchira Dudhoria Nupur Samar Aditi Dudhoria Anastasia Searle Pip Coulthurst Jon Christie Charlie Wright-Smith Mirjana Durovic Diane Ewin Ronald Read Mary Holley

Caroline Langer Kath Robinson Chloe Lines Mark Nuttney Sarah Kortschak Dav Howard Kate Bechet Lauren Mcloughlin Tamara Albers Stuart Massey John Connan

and 210 other individuals and organisations ...

Scan the QR code to see the full list of signatories.

If you agree, it’s not too late to sign on: envict.org/se-letter Authorised by Jono La Nauze, CEO, Environment Victoria, 60 Leicester Street, Carlton, 3053.

12547006-HC17-22

8 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

John Wells and Bruce MP Julian Hill each laid a wreath.

Bugler Allan Collard and Piper Ian Arrell.

Clow Street, the usual location of the march.

Celebrating their service

By Jonty Ralphsmith Dandenong conducted a successful Anzac Day Dawn Service at the Pillars of Freedom.

Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL President John Wells was pleased to see crowds back, 107 years after the Gallipoli landings, able to pay their respects to fallen servicemen and women for the first time since 2019.

The weather was mild and there was no rain

as about 200 people attended the service.

Mr Wells highlighted the sacrifice not just of the fallen, but also of those who sacrificed years of their life fighting for the country.

Many City of Greater Dandenong councillors were in attendance, as was Bruce MP Julian Hill, who laid a wreath.

There was some displeasure among attendees about the march not occurring on Clow Street, with police wanting to avoid traffic dis-

ruptions, but Mr Wells thanked council staff for helping to facilitate a march down Palm Plaza.

Reverend David Owen, senior pastor at Noble Park Christian Church, Allan Collard was the bugler and Ian Arrell from the Voices of Casey was the piper, with the president hosting the service “I’m very happy with the traditional friends that are here, Alan, for example, has been (the bugler) longer than I’ve been doing it and the

important thing is the number of people that turned up,“ Mr Wells said.

“Whatever you think of servicemen, this day is one of the pillars of our community and our culture so it’s great that everybody can turn up - that is the great thing about Dandenong so I’m quietly proud of this community.“ The march occurred at 10.45am with veterans and friends marching to the Pillars of Freedom for the morning service.

Subscribe to the

Dandenong Star Journal

Digital Edition

FREE DANDENONG

Tuesday, 26 October, 2021

DANDENONG

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

/DandenongJournal

@StarJournal_SE

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Home grown Halloween park

Sri Lankan cricket star signs

PAGE 3

PAGE 5

PAGE 10

SPORT

/DandenongJournal

@StarJournal_SE

Living treasures named

Oasis marks 30 years

The Dry actor in profile

City’s historic clash

PAGE 7

PAGE 8

PAGE 11

SPORT

40¢ Inc. GST

SIGN UP NOW!

12476975-LB02-21

Residents objections dismissed

12496498-DL22-21

Beloved egg farm folds

Tuesday, 2 February, 2021

40¢ Inc. GST

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

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

complex grieving process for donors’ families.

“Out of one person, you have seven trans-

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.

NOBLE PARK LAUNDROMAT 5 AM - 11:30 PM 7 DAYS • CARD • COIN • MOBILE PAY

Affordable and Compassionate

12520897-BL46-21

DANDENONG

Scan this QR code to subscribe We’re here to keep your car running.

Or visit dandenong.starcommunity.com.au/subscribe 12540251-DL17-22

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

|

STAR JOURNAL 9

NEWS

Mayor Jim Memeti and Deputy Mayour Eden Foster lay a wreath on behalf of council.

John Meehan lays a wreath.

Piper Chris Hosking from Abulance Victoria leads the march.

Noble Park pays respects

By Jonty Ralphsmith The Noble Park RSL ran a respectful and successful Anzac Day service on Thursday 21 April.

There was a heavy police presence as returned servicemen and RSL members marched down Mons Parade to the site of the service at War Memorial Reserve.

The RSL usually holds its service on the Sunday prior to Anzac Day, but deemed 24 April too close to the public holiday, and the previous Sunday was Easter, meaning it was held during the week.

Members were still positive about the turnout as it attracted similar crowds to most other years with the only notable absence being schools, due to holidays.

Safety barriers and bollards were in place, allowing the event to be held at the reserve which was pleasing for RSL president John Meehan.

“There were all sorts of changes that might’ve had to take place but I’m just so glad that we could remember and pay our respects at the reserve,” Mr Meehan, a Vietnam Veteran, said.

“It’s sad that in a country like this when we’re remembering men and women that fought for this country and beautiful people when need this much security.

“I thought the event went well – the main thing is we are respecting the fallen and since departed servicemen and women.

Light refreshments and food, including Anzac biscuits, were served afterwards in the RSL.

Crowds during the service.

Noble Park RSL president John Meehan addresses the crowds.

Pictures: JONTY RALPHSMITH

RSL members march down Mons Parade.

Members of Victoria Police paid their respects.

Lest we forget.

WIN

SCAN QR CODE TO ENTER 12546357-DL17-22

10 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

12540155-JC17-22

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

|

STAR JOURNAL 11

NEWS

Mixed support for asylum seekers

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Some federal election candidates in Hotham have shown support for the Back Your Neighbour asylum-seeker campaign, while others shied away.

Greens candidate Louisa Willoughby said she supported the multi-council campaign led

by City of Greater Dandenong, which aimed to ensure “fair and humane” resettlement of refugees.

More than 1000 asylum seekers are estimated to be living in Greater Dandenong. Many have been waiting years to apply for permanent protection.

“The current system is cruel and unjust,” Ms Willoughby said.

“Asylum seekers are living destitute in our community for years on end - unable to access basic services like Medicare, Centrelink and AMEP English classes, or to work legally.”

Ms Willoughby said applications needed to be processed in timely fashion so “refugees can get on with rebuilding their lives in Australia”.

“Waiting years - sometimes upwards of 10 years - for a determination of refugee status to be made causes unnecessary stress and trauma for refugees.”

Hotham Labor MP Clare O’Neil was “travelling on a tight schedule for aged care meetings” so unable to provide a “full answer”, a staff member told Star Journal.

“I can advise that Labor does not support

Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti, councillor Rhonda Garad and Asylum Seeker Resource Centre advocate Barat Ali Batoor at a recent launch of the Back Your Neighbour campaign. 268056 Picture: GARY SISSONS Temporary Protection Visas but would create a pathway to permanency for eligible applicants,” the staffer said.

“I do know that Clare is very unhappy with the current process of course. Applications are held up for a ridiculously long time.

“We helped some people from Afghanistan last year. A few manage to get out.

“But a lot of people we were dealing with were held up by the lack of action at this end.”

Candidates from the Liberal Party, United Australia Party and Liberal Democrats did not respond.

The Federal Government recently attacked the ALP’s opposition to TPVs. The visas – which don’t allow asylum seekers who arrive by boat to permanently resettle – were branded a key plank of Operation Sovereign Borders, Government MPs say.

The ALP has re-iterated its support for the turning-back of boats carrying asylum seekers.

Monash University politics senior lecturer Dr Zareh Ghazarian said the two major parties seemed set on similarly “hard” border protection policies.

“They seemingly want to be seen as ‘tough’ on border protection.

“That concerns a lot of voters. It’s going to be one of those things that may motivate some voters to look for alternatives.”

The four aims of Back Your Neighbour are: access to Centrelink, Medicare and support services for asylum seekers, replacing TPVs with permanent visas, clearing the backlog of asylum applications and appeals, overhauling the refugee determination process.

After a recent trip to Canberra, Greater Dandenong’s Labor mayor Jim Memeti claimed there was “very positive” - but informal - support from Labor MPs on all four points.

At the time, Greater Dandenong Greens councillor Rhonda Garad said Labor and Liberal MPs agreed the backlog of claims was a “pressing issue”.

“Both (parties) agreed that they were likely to take action after the election though were not specific about what those changes would be.”

The Greens MPs were “extremely supportive” on all four issues, Cr Garad said.

· · · ·

Senate tilt by local election stalwart Former Greater Dandenong councillor Geraldine Gonsalvez has thrown her hat into a crowded Senate field.

A veteran of local, state and federal elections, Ms Gonsalvez is this time running as an independent in the 21 May poll.

The six vacancies for Victorian senators are normally filled by Liberal, Labor and Greens candidates.

But Ms Gonsalvez is seeking voters to make the extra effort to give her their No.1 vote below-the-line.

With the nomination of 100 electors, she got her application in on 14 April, just four days after the election was announced.

An Australian Electoral Commission worker told her she was the first independent Senate candidate nominated, processed and registered in Victoria for the election.

Ms Gonsalvez said she would be a fresh voice unbeholden to “partisan politics”. She’d aim to establish a “centrist passage for common-sense discussion” in the Senate.

She says she’s inspired by the JFK saying: “Ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country”.

“You can be rest assured, that I will work hard to the best of my ability to consult, serve and represent you, as your Independent, Victorian Senator for the duration of my term of office.”

Geraldine Gonsalvez nominates for the Senate as an independent.

‘It’s time’ for bold ALP stance

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A long-time Labor member and refugee advocate has urged his party to take a more compassionate stand.

Wicki Wickramasingham has backed the ALP’s pledge to abolish temporary protection visas for asylum seekers who arrive by boat.

But he says the Labor Party should go further – offering a “guarantee” of permanent protection as well as reuniting them with their overseas families.

However, the ALP are “afraid” of an attack from the Coalition Government that it would be opening the floodgates for more boat people, Mr Wickramasingham says.

“They’re not declaring what they’re going to do. If they’re not declaring it now, I don’t think it will happen.

“This is a good time for Labor to shift its border protection and immigration policies “They will get more votes than the Liberals. Most of the people are waiting for this ‘guarantee’.”

He knows of TPV holders in the South East who have languished for as long as 16 years – including up to eight years in off-shore detention “torture camps” such as Nauru.

“They can’t plan a life or a future. Are they going to be accepted? What are they going to do?”

Worn down by lagging bureaucracy, they languish in poverty without proper food or shelter. To stay, they must reapply every three years while deprived of work rights, Medicare and Centrelink.

Some risk their lives to return to their homelands. Others were taking their own lives, Mr Wickramasingham says.

“Not only are asylum seekers having depression and worries here, but their immediate family (overseas) are also worried about their future.”

With a shortage of skilled labour, it made little sense to take a “hard line” against allowing asylum seekers to work.

Recent refugees from the Ukraine war and Afghanistan were also having a “hard time”, without work rights, he said.

The old ‘red rattler’ train is breifly back on track The iconic Red Rattler electric train was back on the Pakenham to Dandenong run on Saturday 23 April.

As a one-off, Steamrail Victoria offered down nostalgia lane by reviving the recently-restored Tait electric train.

The trains were part of Melburnians’ daily commutes from 1919 to 1984.

A comparison of the old and new. 278021

Windows were open on the old Red Rattler.

278021

12 STAR JOURNAL

The Red Rattler rounds the bend into Dandenong station. 278021

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

The old Red Rattler at Dandenong Station.

278021

|

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

A place to meet new pets

By Jonty Ralphsmith Australian Animal Protection Society (AAPS) announced on Tuesday 19 April that a meet and greet area for dogs and prospective owners will be established at its Keysborough facility.

The BIG Kennel will allow people to spend quality time getting to know dogs before deciding whether to make the commitment - it is hoped return rates will be reduced and adoption processes enhanced.

AAPS General Manager Megan Seccull gave a tour to Minister for Agriculture, Mary-Anne Thomas, Keysborough MP Martin Pakula and Mordialloc MP Tim Richardson, whose territory will encompass Keysborough when electoral boundaries change in November.

In highlighting the importance of educating potential owners, Ms Thomas said German Shepherds, Staffies and Huskies are among dogs being increasingly surrendered as people are unaware of their special requirements.

“This facility is not only a shelter for animals that have been surrendered or abandoned but importantly it plays a really vital role in educating pet owners in what’s involved in owning a pet,” Ms Thomas said.

“So what I love about this society is its holistic view and care that it provides.

“We’ve got to keep educating pet owners and potential pet owners that a pet is always for life and you’ve got to be ready to make sure you do your homework and understand different breeds and characteristics associated with different breeds.”

The MPs were given a tour of the entire facility and met some felines.

Mordialloc MP Tim Richardson, with the Minister, Keysborough MP Martin Pakula and AAPS General Manager Megan Seccull.

The BIG Kennel area will also serve as a training area for dogs that come into the care of AAPS with behavioural issues.

Ms Thomas announced $100, 000 in funding for more dogs to find homes and Ms Seccull thanked the government for their support.

“We are so passionate about giving our dogs the very best chance of finding their second chance home and The BIG Kennel will be instrumental in making the experience truly wonderful for both people and the dogs,”Ms Seccull said.

The program delivers grants to eligible notfor profit and community organisations aiming to improve responsible pet ownership and provide better animal welfare services. The grants recognise that companion animals play a significant role in the lives of Victorians.

“Victorians are great pet owners but animals are all around us and companion animals deliver so much joy to so many people in our community,” Ms Thomas added.

“Healthy pets [create] a healthy society so we should all be interested in ensuring we have healthy loved and cared for pets because the last thing we want is strays.”

FOCUS ON … SENIORS ENJOYING LIFE

Age, health and nutrition As we age our nutrition needs also change and it’s important to understand and recognise how a well-balanced diet can help reduce the risk of many age-related health issues and help maintain the best quality of life in our older years. Illness, loss of appetite and reduced independence can all contribute to malnutrition in many older persons. Loss of appetite is common in the elderly and can cause significant weight loss, frailty and exacerbate chronic illnesses.

When requiring aged care services, new residents often present with common health ailments brought on by diet deficiencies, dehydration and food textures that hinder the intake and enjoyment of food. At Belvedere, the seasonal menus are carefully planned by the in-house Chef in collaboration with their Dietician and residents. This ensures nutritionally balanced menu offerings that delight the residents and support their nutritional intake.

At Belvedere Aged Care they celebrate the culturally rich residence with a menu offering

that acknowledges the cultural heritage, customs, and uniqueness of every resident. They proudly source local, fresh ingredients with careful attention to ensure reduced salt and the limited use of processed foods and sugars.

For modified foods textured meals are beautifully presented with rich natural colours, flavours and high nutritional value.

As part of the commitment to continuously improving the menu, all residents and their representative are welcomed to provide direct feedback to the Chef and attend their regular Food Focus meetings. Regular feedback is encouraged and valued to support the residents’ agency and contribution to their menu selections.

Belvedere is proud to be at the forefront of aged care dining. To find out more about Belvedere Aged Care, book a private tour of their home and see how they can best support your care needs. Call Belvedere Aged Care today on 03 9574 1355 or visit belvedere.com.au

Steps for older dancers The health benefits of dancing for seniors range from improving your physical health to creating strong social connections that increase your sense of wellbeing.

A 2018 study by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) showed a positive relationship between dancing and the physical and emotional health of older Australians. Participants in the study experienced improved flexibility, boosted energy levels and better posture. Further studies have found that dancing can slow or even reverse the signs of ageing in the brain.

Among these benefits, older Australians are likely to experience an improvement in balance, coordination and spatial awareness, which in turn could reduce their likelihood of falls.

Dancing also provides an increase in dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

heart rate, encouraging the movement of oxygen throughout the body. This has shown positive effects on heart and lung condition, and has the potential to lessen the risk of conditions such as cardiovascular disease.

Regular dance also assists in weight management, toning muscle, improving strength and reducing joint pain.

The benefits of dancing aren’t just physical. Regular dancing has been shown to increase the size of the hippocampus, which is the region of the brain responsible for spatial navigation and memory formation.

Not only did study participants enjoy a range of physical and mental progress, they also experienced a shift in overall mood, selfesteem and confidence. This is attributed to a combination of the effects of physical exercise and the social interactions and connections formed during the dance classes.

12529931-CG08-22

By Elle Cecil

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

|

STAR JOURNAL 13

LOOKING BACK

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

again this year.”

100 years ago

50 years ago

27 April 1922 Anzac Day celebration Anzac Day was fittingly celebrated in Dandenong by an impressive commemoration service held in the Band Rotunda at the Park in the afternoon, at which the memory of the fallen heroes was suitably honoured, and a worthy tribute likewise paid to the brave men who have returned. Although there was opposition in some quarters to Anzac Day being proclaimed a public holiday, the people of Australia who think of the past were glad to meet in that way to celebrate the memory of those gallant boys who had died for their King and country. It is easy to forget the name of Anzac, but we must not forget our duty to the fallen, and also the brave wounded returned soldiers, who were as worthy of honour as the men who would never return.

27 April 1972 ‘No’ to social worker In a decision which is certain to cause a storm of protest and controversy, Dandenong City Council on Monday night rejected a move to employ a qualified social worker.

In front of a packed gallery, all of whom attended to hear the social worker debate, a motion by councillor Max Oldmeadow for the appointment was defeated 7-4. Later, councillor Oldmeadow told the Journal “I’m bitterly disappointed at council’s decision and stress once again, as I did on Monday night, that it would not have meant a rise in rates.

It would have simply meant rearranging prioritises. I am not finished on the matter. I do not believe that vote represents the wishes of the majority of the citizens of Dandenong, and it is my intention to bring the matter up

20 years ago 22 April 2002 Lest we forget Dandenong Pillars march The Dandenong RSL will hold a service at the Pillars of Freedom at 6am on Anzac Day. The main service will start at 11am.

Springvale Springvale RSL held its memorial service yesterday when an impressive crowd of ex-servicemen and women and their descendants swung their way along Springvale Road from the railway station to the cenotaph at the council offices in Springvale Road.

Noble Park More that 200 ex-servicemen and women their descendants, and residents attended the Noble Park RSL’s 11am Anzac service

yesterday. The service was held in the Memorial Park in Mons Parade. The Noble Park RSL always hold its service prior to April 25 to allow members and friends to attend the main march in Melbourne.

5 years ago 24 April 2017 Centre reveals shocking rates of family violence Family violence experts have revealed that they are making about 20 to 30 assessments each night as they announce that their service is to be extended to cover Casey and Cardinia. Dandenong’s $10 million multi-disciplinary family violence centre houses specialist police, counsellors, child protection workers and health professions in the area of family and sexual support from its secret location.

Easter ‘good news’ story to brighten up the day

By Anita Davine Of St John Vianney’s Parish, Mulgrave We all look for ‘good news’!

The message of Easter is one of new life, new beginnings, a new consciousness where communities are called to share love, forgiveness and compassion because Jesus has shown us the way through his life, death and resurrection.

It is a call for communities of diverse backgrounds, cultures, beliefs to gather without prejudice, preconceived ideas or expectations, a meeting of minds and hearts.

It’s a call to community and unity in love as a common purpose, recognising that we are all members of a universal family.

Together we can mend a broken world and work towards a glorious transformation of ourselves, humanity and of all creation, but we must dare to believe it.

MESSAGE OF

HOPE In the words of Daniel O’Leary in his book Already Within: Divining the Hidden Spring, he reminds us “What was revealed at Easter is that every human act of love is a divine act of love: that God, too, looks excitedly through our eyes, whenever we look at anybody or anything with wonder and delight…

“The essence of Easter is that it changes everything. A new reality has entered into our consciousness.”

Let us listen to the life-giving whisper coming from the living gospel within our hurting

hearts, and dare to believe that together we can set free the dance in our bodies, the music in our souls, the dreams in our hearts.

With the Cosmic Christ we can overcome every fear; we can forgive every hurt; we can make our lives a journey of wonder.

Jesus reminds us, “I have come that you may have life, and have it to the full.”

May we place our hope in what matters and what lasts trusting in the Spirit’s eternal presence and love.

– Message of Hope is compiled by the Interfaith Network of the City of Greater Dandenong. Details on its activities, tours and volunteering opportunities, email executive@ interfaithnetwork.org.au

Anita Davine contemplates the message of love in Easter.

Need local staff?

Then give us the job...

Star News

Need local staff?

12544970-HC15-22

Then give us the job... we will advertise it in our employment section and attract local staff

14 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Want Less Stress?

Stop suffering from stress, tension, headaches, anxiety, stiff muscles and fatigue.

Richie | Verified Buyer After a long day of hard work, my muscles, back & bones becomes sore, a 20 minute massage on this chair is just what I need & I feel reborn after... I fall asleep in this chair... when I wake up, I’m new again.

The State-of-the-art Robotic Massage Chair. · Enjoy a luxurious, professional full body massage in the comfort of your own home · Advanced optical sensors combined with intelligent biomapping for a customised massage · Hi-tech intelligent robotic hands deliver a 3D massage to melt away stress & tension · Multiple massage types including Shiatsu, Swedish & Thai Foot Massage

Free TEBO Neck Massager* Worth $249.00

*Call for Terms & Conditions

Call Now! 1800 440 440 12546655-JC17-22

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

|

STAR JOURNAL 15

NEWS

Joy enjoys checking out samples of the water with her child, Tobey.

Matt from the Marine Mammal Foundation engages a child.

Litter collected by the Marine Mammal Foundation.

Jackie from Black Snake Productions poses with a reptile.

The festival mascots brought plenty of smiles.

Fun day at Tirhatuan Park

By Jonty Ralphsmith Children at Tirhatuan Park on Thursday 22 April had a fun end to the school holidays.

For the first time since 2019, City of Greater Dandenong has run the Discover Dandenong Creek Festival in conjunction with Living Links.

Despite being an overcast day, stallholders were positive about the turnout and spread the message about the significance of the environment and why it requires protecting.

Among the organisations in attendance were the Greater Dandenong Environment Group (GDEG), Native Fish Victoria and the Marine Mammal Foundation, each educating about different elements of the ecosystem and sustainability.

GDEG used water from nearby waterways to attract children to its stall where they could search for organisms and examine what animals they could see.

“We’re very conscious of needing to the next group of children to be interested in our environment, what our rivers are, how healthy they are and what we can do to keep them healthy and what makes them not so,” Dorothea Kassell from GDEG said.

“We do that just to get a level of interest from all age groups but especially the children – they’re the children that are going to look after these places.”

The Marine Mammal Foundation exhibited rubbish collected from Port Philip Bay to contextualise the level of pollution ending up in oceans in an interactive sense.

“We’re able to demonstrate how litter in our local communities that maybe geographically are disconnected from marine environments can harm dolphins and whales and seals so it’s important to build the connection between terrestrial communities and marine environments.

“Everyone loves dolphins which is really beneficial for us but it’s really great to see such a strong local and community awareness and passion to look after where they live and by extension those wider environments,” Matt Montemurro from the foundation said.

Other highlights included a free barbecue put on by the Lions Club of Dandenong, a performance by the Koori Youth Will Shake Spears Dance Group and activities with park rangers.

Councillors Rhonda Garad and Bob Milkovic were both in attendance.

Pledges people made at the festival.

The lace monitor was a hit with the kids.

Crowds enjoying the festival late in school holidays.

WHAT’S ON Australian Heritage Festival During April and May, community members are encouraged to visit Harmony Square and Springvale Community Hub to view archival footage showing what life was like in our area during the 1950s, including a celebration of Australia’s successful post-war migration scheme. For more information please contact heritage staff by email at culturalheritage@cgd.vic.gov.au or 8571 1000.

These short films will be shown on the big screens at Harmony Square and Springvale Community Hub at approximately 10am and 4pm daily.

Skateboarding Masterclass Sport and Recreation are delivering free skateboarding masterclasses in partnership with ’Shredability’. No experience needed. Sessions available for both beginners and skateboarders with some experience. Suitable for people aged 12-25 years. Bring your own skateboard and helmet.

Skateboards can be provided for participants who don’t have one. There are different sessions for participants level of experience.

Location: Noble Park Skate Park. Date: Thursday 28 April - 4.30pm - 5.30pm (beginners) and 5.40pm 6.40pm (some experience).

·

Wednesday Night Modern Who’s going to be the ultimate modern spellslinger? Only one way to find out! Come on down and see if you have what it takes! Location: Level 1, 125 Thomas Street, Dandenong, VIC, Australia.

Format: Modern constructed. Entry: $12.

Start: 7:00pm. Prizing: Boosters and promos.

·

·

Portraiture: Techniques and the Secrets of Colour Join award-winning artist Andrew Mezei in this workshop that focuses on painting with colour – controlling colour use, creating depth and exploring the emotional elements of colour. This is a two-part workshop and all materials will be provided (participants may bring their own oil paints if they wish). Please email arts@cgd. vic.gov.au if you have any accessibility requirements. If you require an Auslan interpreter, please let us know at least 48 hours before the event day.

Sessions: part 1 - Thursday 28 April, 10am-

·

16 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

Skateboarders, lock 28 April in your diaries!

Picture: SUPPLIED 12pm; part 2 - Thursday 5 May, 10am-12pm

Armada Dandenong Plaza Family Fun An inclusive centre-wide Family Fun event is taking place on Saturday, 7 May 2022 from 11am to 2pm in celebration of both Eid al-Fitr (taking

place on Monday, 2 May 2022) and Mother’s Day (Sunday, 8 May 2022) The event is celebrated by Muslims worldwide that marks the end of the month-long dawn-tosunset fasting of Ramadan.

The free activities to be held at Armada Dande-

nong Plaza’s Family Fun Day includes a wildlife display with shows at 11.30am & 1pm, kids Mother’s Day mug craft activity, Eid ready henna art station and entertainment & giveaways. For more information visit: www.armadadandenongplaza.com.au dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

FREE Pick up your favourite local newspaper, the Dandenong Star Journal or Endeavour Hills Doveton Hallam Star Journal from local outlets listed below or subscribe to our digital edition and have it sent to your device every week!

ONG FEBRUARY

10, Tues 2021 \ day, STARWEEKLY 22 Marc h, 2022 .COM.AU

dandenong

.starcom

12477071 -CG03-21

Little Ind ia masterpla n reveal JA ed f £ PAGE 3

munity.c

om.au

/Dandenon

gJournal

Celebratin Harmony g Day

fn¹Ǥ

@StarJo

Vale Alfr ed ‘Alf’ Goldburg

8-DL22-21

PAGE 7

urnal_SE 40¢ Inc.

GST

Local sta rs set for VFL season

PAGE 11

1249649

EVERY WEEK

DANDEN

SPORT

Photos te your stor ll ies

Valour r ewarded

Wyndham to enter an residents are being invited which aims amateur photo comp to showcase etition toget

By Cam Luca

dou-Wells

her durin how local A quick-thin s came Non-profi g the COVID-19 driver out king hero who pulled a for Australast group, Bridge Buildpandemic. nong Southof her burning vehicle in dazed Wyndham ia (BBFA), is runn ers tion for Bravehas been awar ing the ded a Com DandeConduct.

Stronger 2020 & Beyond, You, mendaChris Wilto Together Me, n, from comp

by Manor his way to Rowville, Lakes Com etition, supported had been initia 2015 - “halfwork about 6.20a muni tive ty Fund, on of the m on asleep and an BBFA presi Dennis Family needing 3 September When the Corporatio dent Melb the group car crash mechanical engin coffee”. n. a Waug eer saw a Hammon on Dandenong document organised the phot h said multid Bypass o contest how Wynd went from Road intersectio near the a community to ham stood n, thing “zero to s quickly 100”.

He spott The comp during the pand strong as ed a wom that had residents etition, for Wynd emic. slammed an, ‘Emily’, still aged 18 ham in and moun into to images and older ted the medi the back of anothher car , whic is open er car an strip.

“I saw flame hope, coura h tell a visua l story of s coming Mr Wilto or patience ge, innovation, resili out of the n said. and must ence bonnet,” “I This between was photo Marbie, taken yellingofout January 2020have been taken get out of of my wind in a Hopp No digita the car.” and Marc ers Cross ow for her l phot Emily was to ing backyard, Cash prize o editing is allow h 2021. shocked, has been vated airba on March s are on offer. Entried. submitted g as fire spreafrozen under to the comp 31. an acties close Mr Wilto d under etition. (Suppl Details: the vehic was jamm n tried to open ied) wixsite.co https://bbfaustralas the car door le. ed. m/mysite ia. but it The car Australas , ia on Face Bridge Builders for presence was in drive. Mr wynd book of mind Wilton had ham@gmai or email to to pull on bbfa. l.com the the hand lean through the brake. window “Come on, we’ve got he By Ales urged to get out theha Cap drive of the car,” r. one He mana ged to unco herSome undeWyn “is behaving r herdham counuple her seatb fire elt, grab and lift like cillor fortestheirarms Minu hersfree haveofcome Others liken a petulant child behathe later, viour the car. at as.publi flame under show ”. ed the meet cardurin Just cbefor meeteing wasg aengu heate .

“Som ing d last on the the emer to deba lfed eone Coun their Tuesd acquisitio genc scene in te pass the popc cillor favourite ay. y servi . s have been The deba like governmen n of the site for orn”. te Mr Wilto childnren describedces arrived reme and as behaving Szatkowski attemerupted when cars mber byaroun Education t school; and for couna future state being viewe ed there Cr Robe a “petu pted drs motion, put splitt Mini at the watch werelant other time. ing The a lotchild broad It also stated ster James Merl cil to write to Cr ing the motion forward by to split a notic rt the drive cars of ” five cast meetrsing were live stand ino. and e separ on Faceb Szatkowsk of as it the bypa ing ook. two At one on the other the was ChrisThe ate motions for Cr Josh Gilligan, of support for the that council shou ss, havin i has “receraised concerns that dollars point into g amayo ld reiterate councillor site Wilto chat.r moti force “No d n on conc one its Tarn of donations from ived thousands s to vote on. that council shou to remain a site Adele Hege side of to inter the inters else ject.

Road, whicnear erned land was awar for a eit linked of the car,” the state dich ld remain the over relian n’sat 203 h was earm ectio The he member of debat said. “concernedschool; e Woo of atofutur medids e deterioratee that Emily was inwas have Cr Szatk to this motion”. think arked for centr ce of the priva “I was the e abou landwhere abou non-gover owsk pron constructi an strip t it – Inmen d and tryin into uncia Trug just “It deliv he g bicke to tion rescu acted anina wave outaccus er schools te sector to acqu t a matter of publii stated the dona ring over hope was likePreci t schoo of a down the fire, . l unde on to consi I saw councillor ire Gillig ationbut nctsome tions are work’s utes in Wyn der how ed a dazed Strucone driverdham of abusi no one r the stage nameto, and would tureneed an to “pron c record. He then from ”;a and this may Rega pulled over.” ve langu Mr“I’m putan haveAsit repor Plan. tedbebywhat rdles ed help.

Wiltoappa burni s of age s, relate ounc ng asked n’s the Star the the being done car. clear e my surna After Schools4W lled by Weekone saved 272006 event was to any futur Victo in rian thinkbeha trying to ging for Mr the same some comm ly inelse woulI’d chanThe Emily ing may used. me corre Cr yndham persp ents’s made motion Wilto Civil life. posit It turne mber d , Pictu advocacy. ion.”AdmSepte ective- e twice, Cr Gillig say Cr Szatk and naldhas also n. re: owsk tone and Tribu by some viour,well “It just “As soon GARYi’sSISS ctly”. viewe out given unde called the the rtake r stated an make people tonig have a large inistr as I .saw some crash for brave to divid ONS first the had the coun ative happ a sstrate you think part me ry. comm instead addressed surna develbeen name e the fallin ht”, lookenatat how oper cause one in the “Communi site endation. that ing g from any point gic plann permdission him by his into 227 anything cil to “Speaking road. the the resid car, I didn’one the by CathAs it could backentia .” canto was As the farEduc olic He’s ing to conti deba like adults” ty are interested plann of a ltruck as Mr kept contr put in placereview over lots, after Wilto ation indthe rightteher in touch in adults behav t and its drive agree on her the, years raise wrote anoth nued n know Offic mentrtohave not ols with a point place Cr Saha stron e pulle , it’sna forwelfa s, d around er, and that the just like I Emilsites non-regover ing of order at the right in the been ident outtruck y, checking ger ofMr a schoo of an they Cr Gillig build Wilto one councillor mon “usin esh nmen accus time. Ram l thereified. g nabusi was ve infratext on for Austr t ths nated schoo after the desig onelangu each struc of 46 peoping Cr ”Gilligan Sarah Connan’s motion called . chamber”. crash alian Brave sary each ture.other on the ls and comm, and age inle anno for unity olly to be Cr ry decoration year. the coun unced Two asked to publiTarneit MP origi Gillig an She nominaterescue’s anniverThe mayo bravery cil s this mon lists r said Gove nal notic described cly support Mr Wilto thed chan th. sheare was rnordidrecomhear said,Gene mend “but ral tofor He quest e of motion as “ridic ges n ed ly by the not his Deco exact if there towhat ration the you Austr ioned Cr ulous was s pleas Coun alian any languBrave ”. e refraincil Szatkowsk each year. ry from age, can i’s moti Coun using

Council ‘soap op era’

We’re op it again en to ke ves for separatecillor s on Cr Szatk ”. ep your motions.voted owski’s five All were passe PURCHA car ru SE ONLIN nnind. g.

E OR CO ON 9792 NO W OP NTA 583 CT EN CT AT STO US YOUR FIN RE STORE FOERASIAN FOOD GROCERY ALL YOUR NEEDS.

5 & COLLE

12480371

-DL06-21

455 Balla

Shop T3A, Manor Lake Manor Lakes Cent ral E: lawule@g s (Next to Man or Lakes mail.com Medical P: 0433 Centre) 572 664

n Road,

DANDEN Cnr Franks ton-Dande ONG nong Rd PH: 9792 STOCK THA & Zenith 583WE 5 aut I, FILIPINO, ob arn BURMESRd CHIN E, ESE .co AND m.a MANYuMOR KOREAN, E!

12532456

-HC04-22

Pick up your FREE newspaper from these local outlets...

• 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

• Dandenong North Dunearn Pharmacy 11a Dunearn Road • Dandenong North Coles Express 166 Heatherton Road & Stud Road • Dandenong North BP Service Station Heatherton Road & Stud Road • Dandenong North Dandenong North Senior Citizens Club 41a Latham Crescent • Dandenong North FoodWorks Menzies Cellars 52 Menzies Avenue • Dandenong North Menzies Milkbar 64 Menzies Avenue • Dandenong North IGA Friendly 54 Outlook drive • Dandenong North Liberty Fuel 182 Stud Road • Dandenong South Georges Lunch Box 22a Amberley Crescent • Dandenong South BP Service Station 175-187 Greens Road • Dandenong South Lunchmaster 3/491 Hammond Road • Dandenong South Kirkham Road Milk Bar 102 Kirkham Road • Dandenong South Woolworths Supermarket 81-125 Princes Highway • Dandenong South Shell Service Station 50 South Gippsland Highway • Dandenong South United Petroleum 314 South Gippsland Highway • Dandenong South Caltex Service Station 275-295 South Gippsland Highway • Dingley Village Dingley Village Newsagency Shop 2/79 Centre Dandenong Road • Doveton Doveton News and Lotto 7 Autumn Place • Doveton Bottle O 2-Apr Linden Place • Doveton Shell Service Station 48 Princes Highway • Endeavour Hills Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre Cnr Heatherton Road & Matthews Flinders Avenue • Endeavour Hills Woolworths Service Station Cnr Heatherton Road & Matthews Flinders Avenue (Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre) • Endeavour Hills O’Brien Real Estate Shop PS 5A Cnr Heatherton Road & Matthews Flinders Avenue (Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre) • Endeavour Hills Coles Supermarket Cnr Heatherton Road & Matthew Flinders Avenue (Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre • Endeavour Hills Woolworths Supermarket Cnr Heatherton Road & Matthew Flinders Avenue (Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre • Endeavour Hills 7 Eleven Endeavour Hills Cnr Heatherton Road & Power Road • Endeavour Hills Endeavour Hills Milk Bar 13 Gleneagles Drive • Endeavour Hills Endeavour Hills Medical Centre 61 Heatherton Road • Endeavour Hills Liberty Service Station 13-17 Heatherton Road

• Endeavour Hills Ocean Blue Milk Bar 90/92 John Fawker Drive • Endeavour Hills Nicholls Gledhill Real Estate 2 Raymond McMahon Boulevard • Eumemmerring Atura Hotel May-17 Doveton Avenue • Eumemmerring Caltex Woolworths Service Station 40/44 Princes Highway • Eumemmerring BP Service Station 60-64 Princes Highway • Hampton Park Hampton Park Library 26 Stuart Avenue • Keysborough Caltex Keysborough 248 Cheltenham Road • Keysborough Parkmore Shopping Centre 317 Cheltenham Road • Keysborough Barry Plant Real Estate Shop 1,320 Cheltenham Road • Keysborough 7 Eleven Keysborough 309 Cheltenham Road & Cnr Kingsclere Road • Keysborough Woolworths Supermarket 317 Cheltenham Road (Parkmore Shopping Centre) • Keysborough Coles Supermarket 317 Cheltenham Road (Parkmore Shopping Centre) • Keysborough O’Briens Real Estate Shop 6, 317 Cheltenham Road (Parkmore Shopping Centre) • Keysborough City of Greater Dandenong Shop A07, 317 Cheltenham Road (Parkmore Shopping Centre) • Keysborough Michaels IGA 466 Cheltenham Road • Keysborough Keysborough Learning Centre 402 Corrigan Road • Keysborough Foodworks Keysborough 285-289 Corrigan Road • Mulgrave Waverley Gardens Shopping Centre 271 Police Road • Noble Park Sandown Park Hotel Corrigan Road • Noble Park Coles Supermarket 1 Douglas Street • Noble Park Noble Park Newsagency 22 Douglas Street • Noble Park Harvey Real Estate 26 Douglas Street • Noble Park Century 21 Real Estate 38 Douglas Street • Noble Park Ray White Real Estate 42 Douglas Street • Noble Park Caltex Woolworths Heatherton Rd & Chandler Highway • Noble Park Noble Park RSL 1128 Heatherton Road • Noble Park Lucky Star Lotto 1268 Heatherton Road • Noble Park Cellarbrations 3 Leonard Ave • Noble Park Noble Park Aquatic Centre 9 Memorial Drive • Noble Park Noble Park Community Centre Memorial Drive (Ross Reserve) • Noble Park Noble Park Bowls Club 56 Moodemere Street • Noble Park Barry Plant Real Estate 390 Princes Highway • 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 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

Scan this QR code to Subscribe for FREE now!

Or visit: starcommunity.com.au/subscribe 12542625-JW13-22

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

|

STAR JOURNAL 17

networkclassifieds.com.au

Trades & Services V Deadline

V Fencing & Gates

Placing your classified advert is so easy...

SAXON FENCING

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

Prompt and Reliable Service

Ring Jim for a free quote

Phone 0419 775 259 or 8751 4016

(include your name, address and phone number)

C1101420-JO46-13

We accept payment by:

V Furniture Removals

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS

0417 054 198

(1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local office)

LEIGH HUNTER REMOVALS

Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

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

12435758-CG03-20

Deadline for all classifications is 3:30pm Friday.

PHONE FOR OBLIGATION FREE QUOTATION

9707 5700, 9768 9153 V Handy Persons

V Concrete Products & Services

www.affordabledigitals.com.au

C62885-BG24-8

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL

Palings, Pickets, Colorbond Fences & Gates

ALMATT

MEB & SON CONCRETING

Milestone Boards Only $5

HANDYMAN SERVICE

Personalised Party Printables Prints + Wall Art $1 Prints + Printables Personalised Products

12544878-JC15-22

Footings, garages, v crossings, drives, paths & patios.

In plain, colour, slate or stencil. Also drainage, saw cutting, 3T excavator, bobcat & tip trucks.

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL

Ring Jim for a free quote 0417 054 198

� Small or large jobs FREE � Over 25 Years Experience QUOTES

Special Prices on:

� Pergolas � Carport � Decking � Fencing � Painting � Ramps especially for the elderly and disabled

12390512-ACM24-18

9711 5220 or 0420 331 769

A & F CONCRETING • SPECIALISING IN ALL TYPES OF CONCRETING/ CONCRETE PATTERN, SLABS • FOUNDATIONS ETC. • ALL DOMESTIC & INDUSTRIAL

V Heating

Hot Winter Specials

NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL FREE QUOTE ANY TIME RING 9700 4378 C63804-BG25-8

Pensioner Discounts • Brivis Gas Ducted Heaters • Daikin & Rinnai Splits • Installs - Service - Repairs • Duct inspections & Repairs

Andrew Craven Concreting www.andrewcravenconcreting.com.au

12500500-CG26-21

WANTED

C1085227-JO32-13

t 6OJU 4JUFT t (BSBHFT t %SJWFXBZT t 1FSHPMBT t 1MBJO $PMPVSFE t 4MBUF *NQSFTTJPO t 'BVY #SJDL t &YQPTFE "HHSFHBUF Phone Andrew on

0408 585 508, 5998 1127 Support your local tradesman for ALL your concreting needs!

G5790601AA-dc18Feb

WASHING MACHINES

QUALITY HOME CONCRETING

9702 4410

REC 17042 PIC 38148 AU 06212

No job too big or too small Free quote • Compare our prices!

12541726-HC12-22

Footing, garages, v crossings, drives, paths & patios.

In plain, colour, slate or stencil.

Exposed aggregate. Also drainage, saw cutting, 3T excavator, bobcat & tip trucks.

12461288-SN37-20

MEB & SON CONCRETING

www.fairbairns.com.au

V Painters/Decorators

9795 4247 0407 324 768

AA & F&D UNITED PAINTING SERVICES

฀

CALL:

฀

V Drafting

DRAFTING All residential houses, extensions,

G6102263AA-dc17Jun

garages and carports.

Phone BARRY 9704 0148 After 6pm

Leon 0409 637 712

V Plasterers

฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀

฀ ฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀

฀

V Plumbing

฀ ฀ ฀

1 HOUR EMERGENCY PLUMBING

Jason 1300 644 698

฀

1198421-ACM37-15

฀

L&L ELECTRICS ฀

All Types of Domestic & Commercial Work ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

★

฀

฀

฀★

Call Chris: 0416 079 689 - 5940 7264 18 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

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

12438941-CG04-20

24 HOUR SERVICE ฀ ฀

฀

www.proudpainting.com.au

F.N. PLASTERING & PAINTING

J.L. Hutt Electrical ฀

Commercial/Domestic Decking/pergola/driveways ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Interior/ext High quality Free quote

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

V Electricians

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

12535782-JC07-22

Call Frank on 0411 370 252

฀ ฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀

SEWER BLOCKAGES – MACHINE CLEANED฀ ฀

฀

฀

฀ ฀ ESTABLISHED 30 YEARS ฀ ฀ STANDARD RATES ON WEEKENDS ฀ ฀ ฀฀฀ ฀ ฀ gjlawplumbing.com.au 7 DAYS 0419 136 181 - 0419 136 151

1158529-PB42-14

Collector looking for front & top loading automatics, 40 years & older. Brands like Frigidaire, Bendix, Wilkins Servis, Inglis, Simpson & Pope Norge.

• Interior & Exterior • Domestic & Commercial Over 30 years experience • Honest and reasonable prices

12367795-LB41-17

12545867-CG15-22

Advertise with us and get better results

Employment

section of Network Classifieds.

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Professional Services

Trades & Services

Employment V Positions Vacant

V Medical

V Trades Business Profile

NON CORPORATE RADIOLOGY IMAGING CLINIC ESTABLISHED BY A CARING & COMPASSIONATE TEAM

Unit 2, 1 Stephenson Street, Pakenham info@bondradiology.com.au • www.bondradiology.com.au

TRADES & SERVICES

SAME DAY

SERVICE TENNAS DIGITAL AN S AMPLIFIER ETS TL OU TV

D PERIENCE HIGHLY EX ANS TECHNICI E IC RV SE ANTENNA S ALL AREA

228 0409 888

1235322622-PB22-17

“We advertise in the local paper to reach the local community - and it works for us!!!”

- Richard

Rainbow Dolls Open 7 days 48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B V Firewood

Redgum Firewood Quality Gippsland Redgum: $450m3, Stringy Bark: $350m3, Mixed: $400m3 Delivered. 0403 124 605

6-20

12469374-CG4

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

Call 1300 666 808 12479050-JW04-21

MY SPACE - 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.

V Pets & Services

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

10% discount

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

DAWSONS $20 MILLION INSURANCE

ay Sunday 1st M ones le • Chips • Sc reet • Sausage Sizz | 15 Bennett St

• LARGE TREE SPECIALISTS • HEDGE TRIMMING EXPERTS • STUMP GRINDING • MULCH AVAILABLE • CONSULTING ARBORIST

V Rubbish Removal

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

9793 9970 - 0419 514 977

1ST SUNDAY ecember) ONTH (March-D OF EVERY M

TREE SERVICES

158 946 Contact: 0419 d Rules Apply *Current Covi

section of Network Classifieds.

V Television/Video/Audio

ANTENNA MAN

Pruning Removal Stump Grinding

Phone Geoff 0418 340 825 Fully Insured

ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX

SAME DAY SERVICE HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS

Find it in the

DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS

0409 888 228

General section of Network Classifieds.

12469374-CG46-20

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

Free Quotes

Call 0432 550 066 or 8707 5522

C1072232-JJ4-13

V Tiling

NEED NEW STAFF? Get 10% Discount Use code: EMPDISC

ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX

Buy, & Sell in our

Motoring section of Network Classifieds.

V Professional

PLACE YOUR

Oakfern Tree Care P/L

V Positions Vacant

12542678-AV17-22

12400498-CG38-18

C316291-KK18-5

Employment

Wiredex Pty Ltd 640-650 Heatherton Road Clayton South Vic 3169

V Garage Sales

• No Fuss • No Mess • No Stress

☎ 9720 5111

Professional Services

Mig Welder (2nd Class)

Fill your position online

LONGWARRY FIRE BRIGAD COUNTRY CR E AFT & PRODUC E MARKET REFER TO FA CEBOOK FO R DETAILS*

12496966-LB23-21

Reg No 082 1317E

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

12475470-JW51-20 G6032580AA-dc24Jun

V Tree Lopping/Surgery

V Positions Vacant

Call Adrian 0419590344 www.wiredex.com.au

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

V Markets

V Roofing

12386255-DJ19-18

$100/ 30mins

V Massage Therapists

12400545-LB38-19

V Adult Services

12423634-SN31-19

AN

M ANTENNA

Please note that we only consider applications from skilled applicants with South East Water experience in new land development water/sewer reticulation & sewer outfall construction.

Please send Resume and cover letter to: ashlee.davenport@fultonhogan.com.au PO BOX 690 DANDENONG VIC 3175 Or phone Ashlee Davenport on 0419 741 584

General Classifieds

From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week.

Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.

EXCAVATOR OPERATORS (SEWER) PIPELAYER (SEWER)

12545072-AV15-22

OPEN 7 DAYS • 9132 5073

Grow your business with

Fulton Hogan are currently looking for people experienced in Sewer and Water Construction for the following positions:

12501151-NG26-21

Bulk Bill Low Dose CT, Digital X-ray, Ultrasound, Digital Dental X-ray & Dexa Scan QR code for easy online booking system

Real Estate

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

Motoring

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

Ph Daniel 0417 336 906.

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

Real Estate

V Caravans & Trailers

CARAVAN Olympic, 20ft 3" tandem, 2011. Two singles, full ensuite, washing machine. Set up for free camping, solar, batteries, etc. Many, many extras, excellent condition. $42,500 ONO. Pakenham. 0412 524 215

with us and get better results

12514849-JW40-21

ADVERTISE CALL 1300 666 808 dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

|

STAR JOURNAL 19

NEWS

Council and Chamber of Commerce members pose for a photo.

Natalie Klafuric and Robert with the Mayor.

Ed McLean from Lyndale Football Club with the Mayor.

Community Support Fund The Sandown Community Support Fund (SCSF) was launched on Thursday 14 April at Greyhounds Entertainment to announce the community and sporting groups to receive funding within the Greater Dandenong community.

Sponsored by Greyhounds Entertainment and Sandown Greyhound Racing Club, the SCSF enables non-profit clubs and groups to continue their excellent work within the community by supplying financial support through grant funding.

The following groups were successful: Lyndale Football Club, Killester College, SEMVAC Springvale Cricket Club, Springvale DFNC Dandenong FNC, Dandenong City FC, Wellsprings for Women, Noble Park Community Centre, Southern Football Netball League.

The Fund helps non-profit organisations deliver projects and services that drive our local community.

“We are very proud to work closely with Greyhounds Entertainment to enhance our lo-

Committee member Tim Thorpe, Sandown Greyhound Racing Club chief executive Adrian Scott, Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti, Sandown Greyhound Racing Club chairman Neil Brown, Greyhounds Entertainment general manager Suang Tran, Eddie Caruana, Sandown Greyhound Racing Club business development manager Bernadette Dillon and Norma Seip at front. cal community,” Sandown Greyhounds CEO, Adrian Scott said.

“Thursday night showcased the need to fi-

nancially support groups at ’grass-roots’ levels and continue our contribution in developing inclusivity in our multicultural community.

“It was great to have our local clubs back at the races.”

The Fund is a vital initial step toward rebuilding local groups who have been severely affected throughout the pandemic.

“As part of the local community, we have seen first-hand how significantly clubs have been affected over the past two years,” General Manager of Greyhounds Entertainment, Suong Tran, said.

It is crucial that they are supported on their road to recovery.”

To be eligible, groups must be a non-profit organisation who benefit the community in the City of Greater Dandenong in the areas of health, arts, education, sport, recreation and community enhancement or a combination of these.

Applications are open until Wednesday 15 June. For more information, contact the Sandown Community Fund: For more information, contact the Sandown Community Support Fund: (03) 9548 3655 or via email admin@ greyhoundsentertainment.com.au

Iraq veteran proudly honours legacy of the Anzacs

By Marcus Uhe Monday 25 April presents us all with an opportunity to reflect and pay our respects to those who have served to defend our country on the battlefield.

For Botanic Ridge Veteran Stuart Couch, catching up with fellow returned servicemen and women at the Dandenong RSL means more to him than his birthday.

The 48-year-old served two tours of Iraq between 2005 and 2007 in the Second Cavalry Regiment as an Australian Service Light Armoured Vehicle (ASLAV) driver, helped by his grounding as a truck driver for Kenworth Trucks.

He recalled the horror of watching the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001, calling them a “gutless attack on innocent people” and concerned about the potential outbreak of another world war.

Along with his brother’s positive experiences in the defence force, it was his primary impetus to enlist.

“I figured that if there was evil in the world, I would rather fight them in their country, than fight them in mine,” Mr Couch said.

“That was my mindset. I would join the collation fight against terrorism, and I was prepared to go to whatever country the war took me to, whether that be Iraq or Afghanistan.”

He begun live recruit training in 2003 and found himself crossing the border into Iraq on his 31st birthday in 2005 for a six-month tour as part of the Al Muthanna Task Group, the first large combat operation for Australian forces in Iraq, in a mentoring taskforce and a reconstruction taskforce with the Japanese armed forces.

He described his initial deployment as a “whirlwind”, living on significant levels of adrenaline, learning the ins and outs of combat and the unanticipated methods used by the enemy, necessitating being switched on to any and every potential threat, from vehicles, to mobile phones, to civilians.

“In Iraq, everything on the side of the road 20 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

Stuart Couch was the Australian Ambassador to Iraq’s driver during his second tour across 2006 and 2007. 277644

Botanic Ridge’s Stuart Couch served two tours of Iraq. 277644 is an improvised explosive device. You have to treat it that way.

“What they would rely on in this war was stealth and sneakiness, where they would hide a bomb or detonate a bomb and injure some innocent people, and we would respond to that.

“Then they put a secondary larger device, which we call a ‘come-on attack’. They detonate something, you come and react to it, they wait for the first responders to get out and they detonate another device.”

On his second stint in 2006-7, he was assigned an important task for an Australian VIP. “I was the Australian ambassador’s driver in Baghdad in an armoured vehicle,” Mr Couch said.

“He had his normal, close personal protection team in armoured suburban trucks, and when he had to go outside the green zone into the Badlands of greater Baghdad, he went in the back of an ASLAV, that I drove.

Pictures: MARCUS UHE

“My role was to get the ambassador from point A to point B safely.”

Mr Couch summarised his time on the battlefield as “a very slow continuous patrol with small moments of genuine terror”.

One such occasion came in January 2007 while driving his vehicle on a routine mail run, when he came under fire from an insurgent brandishing an AK-47 assault rifle in the middle of road near an overpass.

As the lead call sign for the expedition, he was acting as his group’s eyes and ears at the front of the convoy, and found himself in a life-threatening situation.

Being behind the wheel, he made a radio call to his crew commander which saw his crew opening fire to protect him.

“As a driver, I couldn’t fire back at the guy who was shooting at me, but it doesn’t get much more personal than that.

“As I drove past, bullets were impacting off of this overpass, ricocheting backwards and forwards.

“I got on the radio and said ‘Victor 7 taking fire’. My crew commander started to engage targets because it was a complex attack.

“All I remember seeing was this dragon’s tongue of red tracer from this vehicle behind me engaging this guy who was engaging me and he just disappeared in this pile of dust.”

His tours of service coincided with significant life milestones, including the pregnancies and arrivals of two of his three daughters, interspersed with periods spent away.

He expressed gratitude to his wife, Belinda for her efforts in raising their children while he was serving, highlighting the contributions made by those away from the battlefield that supported and allowed those engaged in combat to give their all.

While no longer wearing the uniform, Mr Couch believes he is still serving his country as a committee member of the DandenongCranbourne RSL, and helping fellow veterans deal with the personal and psychological fallout their time in combat as a lead volunteer for Young Veterans.

“Anzac Day to me is a day of celebrating the spirit of Anzac, celebrating the traditions of the legacy of the first Anzacs.

“I believe that I’m a custodian of those traditions and I hold them in high esteem.” dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Clarke’s a ‘Juddy’ beauty

By Tyler Lewis Judson Clarke was among a group of players that got extremely lost on Richmond’s pre-season camp but, after an exciting start to the VFL season, it’s fair to say the promising forward has found his way back at the top level.

Richmond selected the Dandenong Stingray out of Berwick with pick 30 in the 2021 National Draft and he has since delivered a string of door-knocking performances in the VFL. Clarke has hit the scoreboard in three of his four matches this year, with a best of four match-defining goals in a 25-point win over Footscray last week.

Although an already agile forward, a pre-season at the top level seems to have the exciting prospect moving even better than previously.

“Extremely,” Clarke said of how helpful his pre-season was.

“I think it has helped me get a bit of toughness and really be able to play out the length of games in the physicality that they are.

“If I didn’t have the pre-season, I don’t think I would be handling the physicality (of VFL) that well.

“I would be pulling up a lot more sore than I am.

“I am pulling up sore obviously, but not as much due to the tough pre-season which is good.”

That pre-season included some particularly long days on the bike and some full body wrestling at the end of hot days.

“I found it really fun, pre-season was really awesome, going on a camp up to Bright, that was challenging,” Clarke said.

“There was a lot of riding on the bike. I think our group rode about 100 kilometres on the bike because we got lost which was pretty funny.

“It was really good to bond more with the guys and get to know them better.

“Pre-seasons are tough, I think Monday sessions were probably the worst, they were just really long hard sessions and always at the end of the day we would have some sessions of just wrestling.

“Full body contact and not holding anything back.

“Although it was extremely tough for the boys after a long day of training, I think we re-

Juddy Clarke has been electrifying for the Tigers in his debut VFL season. 277327 ally embraced it and we made the most out of it.

“I think that is how we have been able to shape how we have been going so far.”

The small forward role has been the staple of Richmond’s success in recent years, and while it is a tough spot to crack into at senior level, Clarke is relishing in his opportunity to play such an important position.

“I am absolutely loving it,” he said.

“I have got such great role models to look up to like Shane Edwards and Kane Lambert, they’re really helping me with vision and stuff like that.

“They’re helping me getting the best out of myself in terms of reviewing games.

“Kane Lambert has been awesome with just being on the bench for a few of the games, it has been really good to have him out for a half in round three as well.

“In terms of structure around my role, the little tips and tricks I can do to lose my man and get him lost in the contest to get out in the open.

“The first few week’s it was pretty surreal (playing alongside premiership players). Coming into the club I couldn’t believe it, I had done it, I had been drafted and I was there.

“Now it has settled in a lot more and I am able to come in every day and see your teammates and it’s just the best fun.”

With four goals against Footscray, and a pair of goals against Carlton on Sunday, Clarke is starting to make some noise for the Tigers.

Though he is playing well and hearing good feedback, his focus is on developing his own craft.

“It’s been good, it’s still a work in progress,” he said.

“The feedback has been really good, every week we go in and look at the vision to see

Picture: RICHMOND FC where we can improve.

“For me ultimately it’s about developing in that role I am playing and my forward craft as well, keep chipping away at that and hopefully good things to come.”

And as for who was to blame for the bike detour in Bright...Clarke played with a straight bat, revealing it was a ‘group effort’.

“It was a group effort on that one,” he joked.

“Our group was so far ahead of the staff organising the ride, we didn’t have a marker to direct us into town.

“We were flying ahead of the other groups “We were too far in front so we just kept riding towards Yackandandah, which was the complete wrong direction to where we were supposed to be going.”

Richmond took on Melbourne on Sunday, in the annual Anzac Eve clash.

Up-and-coming Ashley puts pen to paper for Victoria

By Tyler Lewis Ashley Chandrasinghe is on the Victorian books.

The scrupulous opener has won a twoyear rookie deal for his state after a sensational string of summers for Casey-South Melbourne.

It’s come as no surprise, as the Buckley Ridges junior accumulated 639 runs at 40 for the Swans this summer, to go with scores of 56, 68, 112, 91 not out, 22 and 74 for the Vics in the Second XI. After years of hard work it was an abrupt reality for Chandrasinghe as a text message broke the news.

His immediate reaction was to call his dad, and though it was an important moment in his cricketing journey so far, the call itself is a blur.

“It was pretty sudden (the news); I was just working from home and I got a text from my manager Silvio (Marinelli) saying that I was getting an offer for a two-year rookie contract” Chandrasinghe said.

“That’s how I found out. I called my dad straight away, we spoke about it on the phone for a bit, he was pretty happy about it.

“We were just both really happy, he was proud of the outcome and I was proud of myself as well.

“I can’t tell you in too much detail...it went by pretty quickly.”

Putting pen to paper as a professional cricketer means a lot to Chandrasinghe, but he still has his eyes set on accomplishing dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Will we see Ashley Chandrasinghe and Will Pucovski open the batting for Victoria next summer? 273042 more beyond his two-year deal.

“It’s something all young cricketers work towards, to get that recognition to go to higher honours is really encouraging and exciting,” he said.

“I think you have to put in a lot of work and performance to obtain a contract, but have to put in equal or as much work to maintain it and get further than that, to get games (for Victoria) and improve.

“There is definitely a lot more work to be done, so I am looking forward to it.”

It has been a special summer for CaseySouth Melbourne, which played off in the Vic Premier Cricket grand final and has now got a player in Victorian threads.

Chandrasinghe praised his Swans, revealing they have guided him to where he is now.

“Credit goes to Casey, they have helped me out since I think I was 13,” he said.

Get used to seeing Ashley Chandrasinghe in Victorian colours! 273042 “It was my seventh season playing there (last summer), it’s not really a secret that we struggled early.

“This year was my first ever final playing for Casey, so I think that says how far we have come.

“Even back then, they have given me so much opportunity where I mightn’t have even played Premier Cricket at a different club.

Pictures: TYLER LEWIS

“Just growing up as a person around those guys through my teenage years, not just as a cricketer, I am grateful and am happy to return the favour by putting some light back on the club.”

Chandrasinghe will head to Darwin next week for another stint in the Darwin and District Cricket Association, before returning to Victoria for his first pre-season at CitiPower Centre.

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

|

STAR JOURNAL 21

SPORT

Bulls midfielder Jackson Sketcher was best afield. 277789

Pictures: ROB CAREW

Lest We Forget. 277789

Plenty to celebrate about for Noble Park. 277789

Bulls honour the Anzac’s The Anzac spirit was honoured tremendously on Sunday at the Noble Park Football Club.

The Bulls hosted new local rivals Berwick in an Eastern Football Netball League (EFNL) Anzac Eve stand-alone, and the patrons certainly didn’t disappoint, showing their full support in one of football’s best days.

The ceremony was performed in front of the Robert Bell Pavilion, with players from both sides in arms saluting the respected Anzacs that attended.

On the field, Noble Park made its way onto the winners list, defeating Berwick 14.13 (97) to 6.7 (43).

Star News Group photographer ROB CAREW attended the service and captured the best moments on and off the field of a terrific day…

Riley Hollis gets a handball away. 277789

It was a picture-perfect ceremony. 277789

Shayne Allan showed his forward craft on Sunday. 277789 22 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

Both sides showed their support before the game, standing in arms. 277789 dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Collinda Party eyes cup

By Luke Corda Middle-distance gun and Sandown track-record holder Collinda Patty made a statement to fellow Sandown Cup hopefuls, with a dominant staying debut on Thursday night at Sandown Park.

She left fairly from box three and camped on the heels of Fernando’s Quest for the duration of the first lap, with Fernando’s Quest tiring Collinda Patty taking full advantage, exploding away to win by six lengths in a time of 41.41.

The victory sneaks into the top 15 fastest ever over the 715m.

Owner Steph Tyler was over-the-moon.

“She really did us proud!” she said.

“I thought she would go too hard too early but she just pulled away from them at the end.

She ran a really smart staying race.”

Collinda Patty announced herself at Sandown last year with a 29.31 debut run over the 515m when almost reeling in Koblenz who was on a 10-race win streak.

On her first attempt at the 595m she smashed the track-record and both Steph and the Thompsons knew a staying career was on the cards.

“When we knew she was running the 600m really strong, that was the initial step.

“600m to 700m is a big change, though.

Some dogs make it and some really struggle.

That’s why last night lost of people were really interested to see if she could actually run it out strongly.”

Following the win Collinda Patty has crashed into $5.50 on TAB to win next month’s RSN Sandown Cup – equal second favourite with Mepunga Ruby and WA star Mambo Monelli.

“The Sandown Cup was always the final goal, but until she actually ran out a 700m like last night it wasn’t set in stone,” Tyler said.

Tyler finds herself in a position of fortune with another Sandown Cup hopeful on the rise

Collinda Party made the track its own during the week. in the Thompson kennel.

Collinda Lady has burst onto the staying scene and in just her tenth start smashed the 680m track-record at Geelong.

“She hasn’t had a lot of race experience but Matilda’s (Collinda Lady) racing style has always shown she will run the distance. It’s really

exciting to see so early on in her career that she could feature in a big Group race,” she said.

“It’s a real ‘pinch me’ moment to not only have one dog, but two dogs who have a real shot at winning.

“With staying races there’s only a select pool of dogs that can actually compete so when

Picture: SUPPLIED you’ve got two in the mix it really increases your chances.”

Heats of the RSN Sandown Cup will be on Thursday May 12 and Heats of the HarrisonDawson and Sapphire Crown will be on Friday May 13. All three Group 1 finals will run on Thursday May 19.

Respect is calling out your mate’s sexist jokes.

Respect women.

Call it out.

To learn more respectvictoria.vic.gov.au 12544721-SN17-22

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

|

STAR JOURNAL 23

12546719-AV17-22

24 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 26 April, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au