Dandenong Star Journal - 3rd May 2022

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

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Councillor’s heart-felt hospital plea

Bikie boss charged

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A boss of the Comanchero outlaw motorcycle gang has been arrested and charged with murder over the fatal shooting of Mitat Rasimi in Dandenong in 2019.

Homicide Squad detectives arrested Mick Murray, 44, of Lysterfield South, who is the Comanchero national president, at his home shortly after 5am on Thursday 28 April.

He appeared at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court that morning, and was remanded to appear again in court on 18 August.

Police also arrested a 32-year-old Hallam man at his home about 5am.

He was released without charge.

Nitro Gym in Hallam - which was allegedly linked to Mr Murray - was also raided by police just after 7am. A computer was among the items seized, police say.

Mr Murray is the third man charged with murdering Mr Rasimi.

In November 2019, police charged a 27-year-old Hampton Park man with murder.

A 29-year-old Endeavour Hills man was also charged with murder in February 2020.

The pair were remanded and remain in custody.

Mr Rasimi, 51, was found dead with gunshot wounds inside his car, which crashed into a pole in Dawn Avenue on 3 March, police allege.

An orange Ford Ranger ute, allegedly linked to the shooting, was found at McMahens Road in Bangholme 30 minutes later, police say.

Victoria Police’s assistant commissioner Bob Hill said the most recent arrest was “one of the most significant” by Victoria Police in recent years.

He said the police had been making “serious inroads in tackling organised crime”, arresting key figures in “high-level and sophisticated” syndicates.

The latest arrests were a direct result of “an incredible amount of work” by investigators

A Ford Ranger ute found dumped in Bangholme soon after the shooting.

Mitat Rasimi, 51, was shot dead in his vehicle while driving in Dandenong. from Crime Command, and particularly the Homicide Squad.

“Some individuals and criminal groups think they can operate above the law – time and time again they are proven wrong.

“They may be able to avoid law enforcement for a period but it is only a matter of time before they face their day of judgement.

“We will continue to create a hostile envi-

Police cordon off Nitro Gym in Hallam.

ronment for these serious and organised crime groups.”

Asst Comm Hill gave a message to those arrested to “think about those misguided loyalties”.

“It is time to redeem yourself. Your future might be quite different if you were to come out and assist Victoria Police.

“It is not too late.”

Pictures: VICTORIA POLICE

Police were trying to give justice and some closure to Mr Rasimi’s family, Asst Comm Hill said.

“I don’t think we can deliver a grieving family relief. They have lost a loved one and they still mourn.”

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

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NEWS

Council rejects contract

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong councillors have unanimously voted against signing up to a multicouncil waste-to-energy plant for the next 25 years.

Backing an alternative motion by Cr Rhonda Garad on 26 April, the council insists that the South East Metropolitan Advanced Waste Processing consortium publicly reveals the facility’s location.

The council insists that the plant will not be sited in Greater Dandenong.

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

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

Greater Dandenong also seeks more information on a raft of concerns, including financial liability and the impact on human health and the environment.

The facility’s business case must include the likelihood of a carbon price being introduced in the next 5 years, the council resolved.

Cr Garad said the deferral or withdrawal of eight councils was for “very good reasons”, likening the project to Victoria’s “white elephant” desal plant.

She said the contract was like locking in 10 per cent interest rates on a mortgage while variable rates were very low.

“It is a gamble that is likely not to pay off.

“It carries significant financial risk. It locks in a whole generation of citizens in our municipality for 25 years to uphold this contract.

“Most importantly it flies in the face of our current policy of sustainability, a proper functioning circular economy and net carbon reduction targets.”

Greater Dandenong Council wants the advanced waste ‘preferred site’ to be publicly revealed.

Cr Tim Dark concurred, though not on the issue of a “carbon net zero” target or carbon pricing.

The council faced a “significant” financial burden of potentially “millions” if “it’s not done right”, he said.

“There’s still many, many unknowns with the cost perspective, in terms of how it is to be dealth and the financial effects on this council.”

Cr Dark said a solution needed to be found due to the looming landfill shortage, but more “backgrounding” was required.

Greater Dandenong’s other concerns include the financial penalties for failing to supply the minimum waste tonnage and its po-

tential liability to the plant’s contractor.

The plant, which incinerates waste and converts it to electricity, must also be “consistent with the council’s net zero carbon policy” and not detrimental to the environment or human health, the council resolved.

Just seven of 15 SEMAWP shareholder councils have committed to the contract – casting doubt on the project’s viability.

It was set up to address rising costs of landfill and a looming landfill shortage – with the Hampton Park tip set to close as early as 2025, according to the council.

The signed-on councils are Bayside, Cardinia Shire, Casey, Kingston, Knox, Whitehorse and Yarra Ranges Shire.

Frankston and Mornington Peninsula have deferred, while Boroondara, Glen Eira, Monash, Manningham and Stonnington have withdrawn.

According to a Greater Dandenong report, 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.

It also states that without a majority of councils, the project was “unlikely to proceed”.

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

$2.5m running repairs for Noble Park’s Ross Reserve

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Artists Karena Bravo and Mike Makatron at the new mural near Dandenong Market. 278324 Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Diversity brought to life

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A Dandenong Market entrance has been given a vibrant splash of colour by a team of artists and young people.

The ‘Greater Dandenong. My Place. My Community’ mural was brought to vivid life by mural artists Mike Makatron, Karena Bravo, Bryan Itch and Sebastian Fransz on a wall near the market’s southern car park.

It reflects themes of diversity, social connection, food, sport and nature, which were

An African drumming group at the mural’s opening on 23 April. 278324

chosen by young people in a series of art workshops.

The mural was unveiled by mayor Jim Memeti and councillor Rhonda Garad, along with a bevy of entertainers.

Greater Dandenong Council led the project.

“The principal aim of this art project is to create a sense of community pride and connection amongst local young people through creative expression,” a council spokesperson said.

Athletes are welcoming a proposed $2.5 million rebuild of a deteriorating, hazardous athletics track at Ross Reserve, Noble Park.

The expensive reconstruction will finally tackle the rubber track’s uneven, peeling sections warily avoided by its athletes.

In 2021, two Masters runners broke their arms tripping on loose flapping sections. Both elderly women were hospitalized.

Regional athletics events were no longer being held at the venue, once regarded as one of the region’s best.

Last year, the council repaired a section that was repeatedly closed off due to persistent puddling, even after modest rains.

Springvale Little Athletics spokesperson Teresa Rumpf said the proposal in the City of Greater Dandenong draft 2022-’23 budget would allow athletics to continue at the venue for young people across the region.

“Springvale Little Athletics is excited for the allocation of $2.5 million for the much needed track upgrade.

“This investment in athletics and fitness benefits the clubs and the broader community

including casual users and school groups.”

Springvale Masters Athletics club spokesperson Claudio Riga said the rebuild had been a “long journey” of about a decade.

The track was resurfaced in 2012 but “they didn’t put a proper base on it,” Mr Riga says.

“They’ve put in these ‘patchwork’ repairs but it’s been a problem ever since.

“They’d fix up the parts which were splitting and resurface it. Two weeks later the surface was bubbling off.

“This time around they’re doing a complete new track.”

Councillor Sean O’Reilly said the clubs had been patient, with particularly little athletics being “strong and growing” at the venue.

“They could now have a brand new track that will attract even more regional events.”

The track would continue the transformation of the venue, included an upgraded football pavilion and funding for a $2.3 million synthetic soccer pitch.

The council’s draft 2022-’23 budget also provides $860,000 for three electronic scoreboards and renewed lighting on oval 2 and basketball court at Ross Reserve.

Mayor Jim Memeti, artists Mike Makatron and Karena Bravo, and councillor Rhonda Garad.

An uplifted section of track that caused runners to suffer serious falls.

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

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NEWS

IN BRIEF

Chaos at council as security is called in

By Cam Lucadou-Wells and Jonty Ralphsmith A “humiliated” Greater Dandenong former councillor Maria Sampey has demanded a public apology after a chaotic dispute during a council meeting.

The 26 April meeting stopped for an extraordinary 40 minutes over whether to eject Ms Sampey from the public gallery due to an interim intervention order taken out by Cr Angela Long.

Mayor Jim Memeti declared there was a “legal matter” and halted proceedings soon after Ms Sampey entered the chambers.

Then ensued a tense argument between council chief executive John Bennie, councillors and Ms Sampey.

At one stage Ms Sampey remained defiantly seated as security guards were called to evict her.

“This is a public place, I’m allowed to be here,” she was heard to say.

After conflicting advice from lawyers, council conceded Ms Sampey was in the right.

Ms Sampey later told Dandenong Star Journal she was “treated like a criminal” when council closed the chambers and “got the security guards on to me”.

“I thought I’d better call the police so they can explain what’s going on,” she said.

“It was not professionally handled. They had plenty of time to get their facts right.

“I want a written apology. They need to apologise for causing me utter stress that night.

“You don’t treat people like that. I was treated as a criminal.”

Gallery spectator and witness Earle Misso said council should have discreetly taken the matter into a private room rather than kicking the public out.

“I think given the fact she has been a councillor for 22 years, they treated her badly. Treat her with a bit of respect,” Mr Misso said.

At the heart of the dispute was an alleged ban on Ms Sampey being within 200 metres of Cr Long.

However Ms Sampey insisted that under the interim order she was allowed to be in the vicinity but required to not speak to the councillor.

At first Cr Angela Long’s solicitor – on speaker phone in the closed chambers - reportedly insisted there was an exclusion zone.

Security guards were allegedly sent to eject former councillor Maria Sampey during the council meeting.

But they later ruled in favour of Ms Sampey, who was then allowed to stay at the meeting.

On resumption, Cr Memeti told the meeting: “We apologise for the inconvenience.

Council had to sort out a legal matter.”

Cr Angela Long told Dandenong Star Journal that she called her lawyer during the meeting after the intervention order conditions were challenged.

She declined to give further comment.

Cr Long and Ms Sampey have long been at loggerheads during their time as councillors.

A legal contest over the interim intervention order is scheduled at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court in September.

Council chief executive John Bennie said all members in the public gallery – including Ms Sampey – were asked to leave during the “appropriate” adjournment to consider a “legal matter that was presented unexpectedly”.

“The discussion councillors had during this

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

A 59-year-old truck driver has died after being crushed by a falling gate at a Dandenong South depot.

WorkSafe is investigating the incident at Membrey’s Transport and Crane Hire on Saturday 23 April.

It alleges that the man tried to close a 12-metre wide sliding gate when it came free and fell from its tracks and guarding rails about 4.10am.

In a Facebook post, Membrey’s described the man as a “true gentleman” and a “committed worker for 30 years”.

He would be “greatly missed by everybody at Membrey’s and by everyone that had the pleasure of knowing him”.

“A mentor and friend to so many. He always put in 110 per cent and just loved trucking.

“We will make sure his legacy lives on forever at Membrey’s.”

In the post, condolences were also paid to the man’s bereaved family. “(He) will be greatly missed by everybody at Membrey’s and by everyone that had the pleasure of knowing him.”

Mulgrave business burgled

time was to determine the validity, currency and accuracy of the information that was brought to council’s attention, some details of which were presented to council for the first time.

“The legal facts were determined and understood by all councillors as quickly as possible, and then all members of the public gallery, including Maria Sampey, were invited to return to the gallery to resume the council meeting.”

Mr Bennie said council was not privy to the details of the legal order “as this is a private matter for both parties to share if they deem appropriate”.

Further to Ms Sampey’s frustration, she was barred from asking two questions during public question time due to submitting them too late.

Cr Tim Dark later read out Ms Sampey’s questions on her behalf.

Devastated Cr’s family urges hospital support In her darkest hour, a Greater Dandenong councillor and her family are urging support for an annual fundraiser for Monash Children’s Hospital.

On Easter Sunday, Cr Formoso posted on Facebook that “our beautiful boy Luka has recently been diagnosed with leukaemia, an unimaginable diagnosis for any child and unbearable for any parent”.

She thanked the many well-wishers for their prayers and support.

“The best way you can help Luka and every child that endures this, is by attending this walk and raising funds for the miracle workers at Monash Children’s Hospital to keep doing what they do by supporting every family that walks through its doors.

“We cannot even describe the care and compassion we have been shown at this world- class facility from every single staff member that works here.

“These people make miracles happen every single day. I’m certain they will make Luka better.

“Although you never wish to be here, this is the best place you could be.”

Cr Formoso’s family has urged supporters to get behind Team Lukazade for the charity

Man dies at workplace

Luka with his parents Daniel and Lana Formoso are backing an annual Monash Children’s Hospital fundraiser. fundraiser Walk for Monash Children’s Hospital on 22 May. Within a few days, dozens of families, individuals and businesses had donated more than $16,000 to the cause.

Cr Formoso also urged people to donate blood, with stocks plummeting to dire levels across Australia since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“There is a shortage and it’s critical for survival.”

At a council meeting on 26 April, several

councillors paid tribute to the family and its stirring response.

An emotional Cr Rhonda Garad said councillors reacted with “deep sadness”.

“There is no more distressing news than to hear that your child is so unwell.

“But we all know that Cr Formoso is an incredibly strong woman. We know that they will get through this and she knows that we’re there for her.”

Deputy mayor Eden Foster strongly encouraged the community to get behind the walk.

“I know Cr Formoso has really backed the community so much, not only as a councillor but as a resident as well.

“I think the least that we can do is show support for her in this difficult time.”

In pledging his support for the walk, mayor Jim Memeti said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with Lana and her family, and we wish Luka a speedy recovery”.

The Walk for Monash Children’s Hospital is at Jells Park, Wheelers Hill on 22 May. The annual event has raised $1.2 million for the hospital in the past decade.

Details: https://monash.grassrootz.com/ walk-for-monash-children-s-hospital-2022/ team-lukazade?tab=donations

Police are seeking a man over $30,000-plus of electronics stolen from a Mulgrave business.

The electronics business on Dunlop Road was allegedly targeted twice by the man in a white sedan in two days in late April.

On the first occasion, he stole a “significant” amount of stock including in-car CB radios and DVD players on Saturday 23 April about 1.50am, police say.

He left the scene in the white sedan.

Police allege the same man stole more than $30,000 worth of stock and left in the same vehicle about 4.20am on Anzac Day, 25 April.

Some of the stolen property was later located on the side of Pound Road, Narre Warren, police say.

The man is described as Caucasian, with a medium build and wearing a blue cap, black jacket, dark-coloured trousers, spectacles and face mask.

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

Drunk driver detected in Bangholme A man driving more than four times the legal alcohol limit was nabbed in Bangholme on the evening of Tuesday, 26 April.

At about 8pm, police patrolling Eastlink were overtaken by a 2014 Hyundai IX35 that reportedly reached speeds of 147km/h in the 100km/h zone.

The vehicle was followed for a short distance before it was intercepted. The 24-yearold driver returned a positive roadside breath test and was taken to a police station.

It was there that he returned an alleged reading of .207.

The Sandhurst man’s vehicle was impounded for a period of 30 days at a cost of $1006, and his license was immediately suspended.

He is also expected to be charged on summons with driving offences.

Appeal for assault witnesses Police are appealing for witnesses to a serious assault in Hallam in the early hours of Wednesday 20 April.

Casey Crime Investigation Unit detectives have been told a 23-year-old Endeavour Hills man was walking eastbound on the Princes Highway in Hallam between 12am and 12.30am.

The man walked out into traffic with multiple cars swerving to avoid him, before he crossed onto the southern side of the road.

A vehicle pulled over to check on the man and observed an unknown man exit a white hatch-back with a small spoiler, between Tinks Road and Raven Crescent, and strike the victim with a large baton or potentially a baseball bat, police say.

The 23-year-old man was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

The offender got back into the hatchback which drove off in a westbound direction.

Investigations into the incident remain ongoing and police believe parties involved may have been known to each other.

Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, has dash-cam footage or any other information that could assist investigators with their enquiries to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com. au Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 3

NEWS

ALP, Greens back wishlist

By Cam Lucadou-Wells Greater Dandenong Council’s federal election wish-list has secured just one commitment from political parties so far.

That is Federal Labor’s recent pledge for $20 million towards the Dandenong Wellbeing Centre and Noble Park Aquatic Centre upgrade, communications manager Kylie Sprague said on 26 April.

Several election candidates had taken up the offer to meet with mayor Jim Memeti and chief executive John Bennie.

Star Journal surveyed Bruce-electorate candidates on the wish-list.

Only the ALP and Greens responded before deadline.

There was no response from the Liberal, United Australia, One Nation or Liberal Democrats candidates.

Bruce Labor MP Julian Hill said the party was supporting the council’s number-1 priority – the Dandenong Wellbeing Centre, which replaces the Dandenong Oasis pool.

The proposed main pool area at the Dandenong Wellness Centre.

“The Liberal Party has committed nothing of substance to Greater Dandenong over a decade.

“I call on them to stop the corruption and rorting of taxpayer money to Liberal Party marginal seats and match Labor’s commitment to Dandenong.”

The council wish-list also includes the Dandenong Sports and Events Centre stadium, help for asylum seekers, social and affordable housing, climate-change action and major road and bike networks.

Mr Hill said he was a “huge supporter” of the stadium – a “brilliant addition to central Dandenong and nearly 2 million people across South East Melbourne”.

“I am confident that a Federal Labor Government will support the project subject to the business case and appropriate contributions from Melbourne City (Football Club) and the Victorian Government.”

He also nominated affordable housing, permanent protection and swifter processing for “genuine” refugees, and ensuring priority local transport projects were “fairly assessed and funded”.

“Scott Morrison, the Prime Minister for NSW, lied and broke his promise to deliver a South East City Deal, supporting critical local infrastructure.

“Melbourne is now the only Australian capi-

tal city without a City Deal.”

Greens candidate Matthew Kirwan also supported the Dandenong Wellness Centre, which was “well planned” to lift the below-average health and wellbeing of Bruce residents.

Mr Kirwan said both Liberal and Labor parties had subjected asylum seekers to “cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment for (the parties’) political benefit”.

“Both major parties support indefinite detention for people who seek safety in Australia.

“Our policy is to introduce a 7 day limit for onshore detention and provide fair support for people seeking asylum.”

Mr Kirwan said the Greens were the “only party to recognise we are in a housing crisis and have policies which respond to it”.

He also supported the council’s wish for making public transport facilities more disability-accessible, and upgrading bicycle networks.

He also highlighted the Greens’ plan to phase out coal and gas by 2030, 100 per cent transition to electric vehicles, and for more walkable and bike-friendly cities.

Carrying Victoria’s transporting future

By Jonty Ralphsmith A Dandenong electric bus manufacturer will be part of Victoria’s public transport future.

Volgren will build 38 of the 41 electric buses that will be built over the next three years as part of a State Government trial of zero emissions buses.

The scheme benefits Dandenong’s economy, with 30 new jobs created since the partnership was announced in 2021, and there are plans to employ “at least another 20 staff” in 2022, according to the company.

A trial by Transdev in 2019 revealed the buses saved 61.6 tonnes of emissions in its first 300 days of service, compared to a normal diesel bus.

“One of Volgren`s values is sustainability which is in other words, thinking about the future,” Chief Commercial Officer, Yuri Tessari, said.

“Designing and building zero emission buses is definitely a huge step towards a more environmentally friendly and healthy future.”

It was announced by the government in

April that Seymour would be the first regional town to be fully serviced by electric buses.

At the current rate, there would be 78 electric buses across the state by 2025.

“Other than the tailpipe zero emissions, our electric buses are quieter and smoother to drive, not to mention silent comfort and spacious layout,” Mr Tessari said.

“Volgren’s battery electric buses are also one of the lightest electric buses in the market.

“The lightweight design delivers longer range and less downtime for charging.”

Volgren will build 38 buses as part of the government trial.

Picture: SUPPLIED

The Victorian Government is making it easier for families to find a three and four-year old kinder learning program they can count on.

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

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NEWS

Speeding tally ‘alarming’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells An alleged drug-driver caught more than twice over the speed limit in Wedgewood Drive Hallam was among an “alarming” 213 detected speedsters during an 11-day traffic blitz in the South East.

The 52-year-old Oakleigh South man was intercepted after police were called out to reports of “high-risk driving” in Hallam late on Sunday 24 April.

He was detected about 130 km/h in the 60 km/h zone by an unmarked police car about 11.30pm on Sunday 24 April, Victoria Police say.

His Mazda was impounded, and his license

was immediately suspended.

The man was charged with speeding and drug-driving offences, and released pending summons.

All up, police detected a whopping 770 traffic offences in Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia during Operation Compass across two long weekends from 14-25 April.

“We are incredibly disappointed in this number which represents 770 people who have shirked responsibility and made terrible decisions while on the road,” Acting Superintendent Dearne Dummett said.

Act Supt Dummett also singled out the “alarming” number of speeding drivers.

“This is particularly concerning as speed is a major contributor to trauma on our roads with the potentially devastating effects of such behaviour rippling throughout the community.

“Whether speeding, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or checking a message from your mate, you are making a decision that puts the lives of innocent and vulnerable road users in your hands.”

The tally included 87 drug drivers, 44 drink drivers, 112 unregistered vehicles, 32 impounds and 95 unlicensed or disqualified drivers.

There were 187 other offences including

disobeying traffic control, seatbelt and mobile offences.

Act Supt Dummett warned that police would continue to patrol for “reckless driver behaviour” and unregistered and disqualified drivers.

“While our state-wide operation may have concluded, police will continue to do everything we can to protect innocent and vulnerable road users.

“With worsening weather conditions and reduced visibility as winter approaches, it is imperative motorists and pedestrians look out for one another.

“Be patient, obey road rules and stay safe while driving.”

Prayers for Hazara fallen By candlelight, hundreds gathered to remember victims of recent atrocities in Afghanistan.

Families in Greater Dandenong and Casey were among the mourners at the vigil in Harmony Square, Dandenong on Sunday 24 April.

They grieved for more than 100 – many of them children - killed in recent terrorist attacks at two schools in Kabul on 19 April, followed by further deadly attacks on two mosques.

The murders were labelled as part of a continuing genocide of Hazara and Shia Muslim minorities under a “terrorist” Taliban regime.

Co-organiser Hayat Rahimi called for the Australian Government to recognise the “Hazara genocide” as many loved ones remain trapped in Afghanistan.

“Attacks on our schools, hospitals, mosques and individuals have been constant, targeted and systematic.

“Unfortunately, under the previous governments and now under the Taliban rule, we have been discriminated against.”

Mr Rahimi called for the Australian Government to speed up processing partner and family visas for evacuees, and to grant permanent residency for Hazara asylum seekers in Australia.

Many are languishing for years on temporary protection visas, restricted from work, income and family reunions.

“Members of our community are hardworking, many of them have set up their own businesses, and contribute to the social, economic, and culture of the Australian society.”

In support were speakers including Afghanistan and refugee advocates, Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti and federal election candidates. Councillors Tim Dark and Rhonda Garad also attended.

Bruce Labor MP Julian Hill condemned the “blatant” targeted attacks on minorities

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Co-organiser Hayat Rahimi at the candlelight vigil.

Bruce MP Julian Hill highlighted the delays in humanitarian visas for Hazara people seeking to flee Afghanistan.

Families at the vigil called for condemnation of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan.

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by “extreme, radical elements”.

“They have not been condemned by the Taliban – the purported government,” he noted.

“These (acts) are not political statements, they are targeted and systemic acts of murder.

“It’s even more appalling that it’s been done in the name of religion.”

He read an email from a man trapped in Afghanistan, who feared for his and his family’s life.

He had been sponsored for a partner visa to join his fiance in Dandenong. The Australian Government had not responded to his application for a humanitarian visa, Mr Hill said.

Bruce Greens candidate Matthew Kirwan said he stood in “solidarity” with the audience.

“This murderous attack this week is unfortunately but another sad chapter in the continued genocide of the Hazara people over the last century and a half”.

He told of buying a painting from an exhibition of Hazara student artists. “(It is) a reminder of the unjust world we live in but also a reminder that Australia has failed you as a good global citizen and is neither speaking up strongly enough against this continual genocide nor welcoming with open arms the Hazara people that seek refuge here.”

But it also reminded him of the Hazara community’s “strength, courage and resilience”.

In an audio message, Bruce Liberal candidate James Moody criticised the “most cowardly and dastardly attacks” that claimed “the most innocent amongst us – our children”.

“Please stay together tonight, please remember the fallen and may God bless you all.”

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

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By Cam Lucadou-Wells

STAR JOURNAL 5

NEWS

Big steps on 1000km walk

By Cam Lucadou-Wells A bereaved Cranbourne father’s 1000-kilometre ‘walk of hope’ for youth suicide prevention moved many, not least himself.

Nyibil Amum, a Dandenong-based mental health worker, dedicated his 23-day trek from Melbourne to Canberra and Sydney in March to his late son Oyiti.

It marked a year since 23-year-old Oyiti – a young leader and talented basketballer - took his own life.

The trek raised more than $10,000 on Go Fund Me to launch Mr Amum’s Oyiti Foundation for Multicultural Youth as a “voice for the voiceless”.

It inspired communities and raised the need to tackle the scourge of youth suicide.

Now fully recovered, Mr Amum says the walk had a “huge impact on so many lives – starting with myself”.

“The shift in that walk was I came to realise many people need help.

“It was just like a healing process. It was a way to reflect on what’s happened, what I can really change and what can I do about it.

“I let go, I felt supported, I heard from other points of view and saw I could have an impact on many people’s lives.”

Mr Amum was buoyed by the overwhelmingly positive response from locals in country towns in NSW and Victoria.

Many confided their own personal losses “to mental health”. They shared tears over lost loved ones.

Started new friendships, Facebook connections, invitations to sit down for a coffee and phone chats.

“Nearly everyone is impacted by mental health either directly themselves or their loved ones,” Mr Amum says.

“This is what I’ve come to know – mental health is a journey which we should walk together.”

Nyibil Amum with his support team before the walk in March. 270391 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS up’,” Mr Amum says.

“Life is not easy. You don’t get nothing for nothing, you need to pay a price to do something you want and don’t get defeated by obstacles you face in life.

“You need to talk to someone.

“You need to be part of the community and to be connected.”

Part of the point of the walk was to highlight the disconnection between youth from diverse cultural backgrounds and mental health services.

The Oyiti Foundation will be a bridge between young people and service providers. Its website is set to be launched within days.

Mr Amum’s journey ended with a “beneficial” meeting with David Coleman, who is Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister for Men-

In Australia, about 3000 people take their own lives a year – about eight a day. And one in five Australians have a mental health condition.

“The services are there but the rate is very high in the CALD (culturally and linguistically diverse) community as well as in the indigenous community.”

On 23 April, Red Roo Basketball – one of Oyiti’s former clubs – and the Oyiti Foundation teamed together for a basketball game and get-together with his son’s friends and teammates to celebrate Oyiti’s life.

The partnership aims to support young people to achieve their dreams in sport. Even on the every day level of transporting them to training and games.

“The message to young people is ‘don’t give

Nyibil Amum meets Assistant Minister David Coleman in Sydney at the end of the 1000-kilometre walk. tal Health and Suicide Prevention, in Sydney on 1 April.

“He was so supportive and very happy for me to take that approach so my voice for my people could be heard.

“He was very keen to make time to meet me.”

In a video post at their meeting, Mr Coleman said: “Thank you and congratulations on what you’re doing. It’s incredibly important. “(To bring) attention to the importance of suicide prevention and mental health in the community is a great thing to do.

“It’s a wonderful thing that you have done.”

Details: facebook.com/OFFMCY If you need help, call Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 or beyond blue on 1300 22 4636.

MONASH FREEWAY UPGRADE STAGE 2

Welling to

Jackson

New connection to EastLink operational in mid-May 2022.

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as on

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These changes will improve connectivity and reduce traffic weaving between Jacksons Road and EastLink, making your journey easier and safer.

n Road

s Road

We’re changing the way you access the Monash Freeway and EastLink from Mulgrave

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From Sunday 15 May the following changes will be in place:

ay w

• To enter EastLink from Mulgrave you’ll use the Jacksons Road outbound entry ramp

From mid-May 2022, the existing Jacksons Road outbound entry ramp will lead only to EastLink.

• To enter the Monash Freeway from Mulgrave you’ll detour via Wellington Road or Stud Road until the Police Road outbound entry ramp is reinstated in mid-2022

EastL ink d

Gladsto

To learn more scan the QR code or visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/mrpv/monash-freewayupgrade/roads/police-and-jacksons-road

Police Ro a

ne Road

Browns

Road

• To enter EastLink from the Monash Freeway veer left 400 metres earlier, before the Jacksons Road outbound exit ramp

Ja c ksons Road

Police Road outbound entry ramp will be reinstated in mid-2022.

Monash Freeway to EastLink via new separated road Jacksons Road outbound entry ramp to EastLink

For languages other than English, please call 9209 0147

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

4162

1800 105 105 contact@roadprojects.vic.gov.au roadprojects.vic.gov.au

Reinstated Police Road outbound entry ramp to the Monash Freeway

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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

FEDERAL ELECTION Who are the candidates on your ballot paper for the Federal election on 21 May? Star Journal sent surveys to the aspiring MPs in the electorates of Bruce, Hotham and Isaacs to find out what they stand for. Below are the candidates who responded before deadline.

Get to know your candidates Matthew Kirwan (Greens) Where do you live? In Noble Park Why did you choose to run for the seat of Bruce?

I have lived in the outer southeast of Melbourne all of my life.

I served as a local government Councillor for 8 years for a significant part of Bruce and know the area, its people and its needs very well Why did you choose the Greens?

The gap between rich and poor is widening and our environment is deteriorating.

The Greens are the only party which has a plan for the big issues that affect us today, which if left unaddressed will only get worse in the future.

What do you work as? Project Manager.

Julian Hill (Australian Labor Party) Where do you live?

Dandenong.

Why did you choose to run for the seat of Bruce? I love our community and we need a Labor Government that cares for a better future.

Why did you choose Labor?

I was raised by a single mum whose family could not afford the uniforms for her to finish Year 12, so she could never fulfil her dream of going to University.

Labor believes every child deserves a decent education to fulfil their life potential.

Only Labor Governments do the big things for Australia – caring for people by creating Medicare, the PBS, NDIS, age pensions and superannuation, while growing national wealth and a fairer society.

What do you work as? Federal Member of Parliament for Bruce (since 2016).

What’s your family status? My partner is a

Matt Babet (United Australia Party) Where do you live? I live in the electorate of Bruce.

Why run in Bruce? I chose to run in the electorate of Bruce because I have always lived in this electorate, and so do most of my family and friends, my first kindergarten, primary school, high school and my first job were all in this very electorate.

Why the UAP? I chose to run with the UAP because the two party system is no longer serving Australia, labor and liberal can bicker all day like cats and dogs, but ultimately they have the same policies and are just two wings on the same bird, this was further confirmed when labor came out and said they will be giving their preferences to the liberal party, making it abundantly clear that they are a coalition.

Australia has accrued a massive $1.3 trillion dollar debt under liberal and labor this needs to be stopped immediately.

What do you work as? I own and operate my own business as a property executive What’s your family status? I and my partdandenong.starcommunity.com.au

What’s your family status? I’m married to my wife Jenny and twin girls, Eloise and Sylvia What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing Bruce?

1. Climate change.

2. Access to quality, affordable public education.

3. Housing affordability The three most important policies to you are...?

1. Strengthening Medicare to cover dental and mental health care.

2. Increasing funding on aged care to provide high quality, safe and timely care to meet the needs of all older Australians.

3. Accelerating the uptake of renewable energy and creating a clean energy economy, both creating sustainable jobs and at the same time tackling the climate crisis

lawyer and my adult daughter is now working.

What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing Bruce?

1. Failing government services –broken visa processing system, Centrelink delays, cuts to NDIS plans, aged care crisis.

2. Skyrocketing cost of living – falling wages and looming interest rate rises, affordable housing, the lack of good secure jobs.

3. Liberal attacks on Medicare and the health system.

The three most important policies to you are...?

1. Labor’s practical plans to cut the cost of living – more affordable childcare, cheaper power and better-paid, secure jobs.

2. Making more things in Australia – rebuilding local manufacturing boosting renewable energy and skills, 465,000 feefree TAFE places – huge benefits for good, local jobs.

3. Fixing aged care and strengthening Medicare – putting the care and dignity back into aged care, and making it easier to see a Doctor.

ner are soon to start a family and the three main things we are worried about in Bruce and the whole country from freedoms right through to inflation and the crippling debt, Liberals Josh Frydenberg the federal treasurer projected repayment of Australian debt will take 180 years to get this nation back to where it was.

My brother Ralph Babet is also running as a senate candidate for Victoria.

My three top issues: The United Australia Party will introduce a 15% export license on the export of all Australian iron ore.

Australia supplies over 80% of the world iron ore, this license will enable us to pay off the national debt within 20 years apposed to 180 years as proposed the liberal party, this will also stimulate manufacturing in Australia!

Three most important policies: The United Australia Party will introduce a maximum interest rate for all home loans of 3% per annum for the next five years to save Australian homeownership.

If interest rates go up to 4% a massive 60% of Australians will default on their mortgage.

Australia has trillions of dollars of Australian super being invested overseas, we will bring $1 Trillion Dollars of Australian super home be to invested in Australia!

Bruce.

Christine Skrobo (Liberal Democrat Party) Where do you live?

Narre Warren South Why did you choose to run for the seat of Bruce?

Bruce is the electorate I was born in and have lived most of my life in. I went to school here, worked my first jobs here and care deeply for the people who live and work here. The people of Bruce deserve a representative who will listen to their concerns, defend their liberties and be a strong voice in parliament.

Why did you choose the Liberal Democrats? My values and principles align with those of the Liberal Democrats. I believe

James Moody (Liberal) Where do you live? I live in Berwick Why did you choose to run for the seat of Bruce?

I am running for Bruce because I am tired of the area I live and was born being left behind and to put our local area’s priorities first Why Liberal? I am running for the Liberal Party because we are the Party that fights for hardworking people. We believe in individual freedoms and for a strong economy through jobs and low taxes.

What do you work as? I have worked in the

in protecting individual liberties, low taxes and having a small government.

What do you work as? Unemployed due to mandates What’s your family status? I have a wonderful mother and father and a younger sister and brother What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing Bruce? The rising cost of living, high taxes, excessive government inference into individual’s personal lives and businesses The three most important policies to you are? Reducing red tape to ensure small businesses can thrive, repealing the blanket ban on nuclear energy to allow for a clean and reliable alternative, a free speech constitutional amendment to strengthen our democracy.

automotive, education and legal sectors and prior to to becoming a political candidate worked for Assistant Customs and Multicultural Affairs Minister Jason Wood MP What is your family status? I have a large multicultural family, most of which live locally!

What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing the electorate? Cost of living, jobs and the economy and local infrastructure The three most important policies to you are? Our low taxes and tax cuts, our new free trade agreements and our record on home care packages for older Australians.

Continued page 13 Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 7

LOOKING BACK 100 years ago 4 May 1922 Ladies Column Removing scorch marks: To remove a scorch mark from linen, cut an onion in half and rub the scorched part with it, and then soak it in cold water. The mark will disappear.

To make plants grow: Plants will grow more quickly if a few drops of ammonia is added once a week. The water should be lukewarm, not colder than the atmosphere, when you water your plants.

To sanitize your dustbin: To render your galvanised iron dustbin perfectly sanitary, burn a couple of newspapers or two or three handfuls of straw in it every time it is emptied. Light the fire flame well, and it will remove every trace of grease or damp from the iron; and render the dustbin

· · ·

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

as healthy as a new one and quite free from any unpleasant smell in a few seconds, with practically no trouble or expense.

50 years ago 2 May 1972 Town Hall ‘not for library’ Dandenong Town Hall is not suitable for conversion as a regional library in conjunction with the Springvale headquarters. This was revealed in a survey which said the town hall was not suitable for several reasons – insufficient space, too many small rooms which would not be economical to alter, inadequate room for future expansion and no provision for car parking

20 years ago 6 May 2002 Council “blown it”: MP Dandenong MP John Pandazopoulos said the

State Government would be cautious about funding major projects in Greater Dandenong following the council’s back flip on the proposed $14m regional performing arts centre.

“The government does not look kindly on councils that apply for money, get the money, and then do major changes to the project. If they (City of Greater Dandenong) are hoping to have access to $5m for use in refurbishing the town hall they need to think again.

The fact is they have blown it,” he said.

This is following the council’s decision to opt for a community arts and conference centre at half the cost.

5 years ago 1 May 2017 Plan to raise bar Springvale’s new community hub doesn’t “pass the pub test” and is a waste of money,

according to councillor Tim Dark.

He told the Monday 24 April Greater Dandenong Council meeting that constituents didn’t want the $40m Springvale Road project and that it would create further council debt.

“We are representing the poorest of the poor,” he said.

But Cr Roz Blades said the hub would give the people of Springvale “the facilities that they deserve so that it can make their lives better. One way you keep people poor and uneducated is by not providing facilities for them to learn at,” she said.

Seven votes to two, councillors approved plans to make a new hub carbon-neutral and be in place early 2020.

It will have a new library, multi-purpose community spaces, outdoor green spaces, and parking.

Rising from the pandemic Labor campaigns for Hotham Hotham MP Clare O’Neil’s campaign was in overdrive on the evening of Wednesday 27 April as she chases election for the seat for a fourth term.

Senator Penny Wong was in attendance at the Springvale event, highlighting Ms O’Neil’s passion for creating opportunities and using her political skillset solve problems facing her electorate and the country.

There were about 200 predominantly Labor supporters at Maxim Saigon Restaurant, who warmly received the speeches from Ms O’Neil and Ms Wong and appreciated the opportunity to mingle, chat and be photographed with the pair during the night.

Ms Wong also outlined the Australian Labor Party’s vision for carrying the country into a better future, speaking keenly about addressing climate, rebuilding manufacturing and allowing people to “age with dignity”.

City of Greater Dandenong councillor and owner of Lim’s Pharmacy, Richard Lim, was gold sponsor.

Ms O’Neil lauded his work ethic as he arrived in Australia as a refugee in 1980 as the electorate’s multiculturalism was celebrated several times throughout the night.

Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti introduced the night and councillors Sean O’Reilly, and Sophie Tan were also in attendance, as was Keysborough MP Martin Pakula.

Martin Pakula addresses the crowd.

Senator Penny Wong spoke passionately.

Ms O’Neil chats to residents in her electorate.

Pictures: JONTY RALPHSMITH

Greater Dandenong City Council Mayor Jim Memeti and Keysborough MP Martin Pakula with members of the Springvale Asian Business Association.

By Jonty Ralphsmith

By Reverend Berlin Guerrero from Dandenong Regional Uniting Church We always welcome the Easter week with joy and expectation.

For many, it is a time for personal and family reprieve, rest, and recreation.

But this year, the week was extra special.

Why? We have come out of the pandemic, though not totally.

And it reminds us of the First Easter.

The Easter story is about the Biblical narrative and the Christian belief of Jesus the Messiah, God’s beloved Son who was brought to life from an earthly death.

Jesus died by crucifixion in the hands of the Roman Empire and Temple authorities as punishment to his ministry of love, compassion, liberation, and salvation.

By God’s grace, from within the cavetomb, Jesus came out to life again on that early Easter morning.

Our experience of the pandemic is like coming out of the tomb.

We are rising up from suffering and death to life and health once more.

The past two years of pandemic brought humanity to its one of the worst situations and greatest challenges.

It is humankind’s inherent goodness and resilience which made the difference between being defeated or being victorious over the shadow of death.

It is humanity’s soul where love, compassion, perseverance, and sense of unity emanate that enabled us to overcome the crisis of disease, selfish-preservation, divisiveness, and hopelessness.

We have a lot to be thankful for, especially for our medical and health front liners, federal and state governments and its various agencies, vaccine researchers and manufacturers, health care workers, civic associations, community groups, faith communities and volunteers all coming from the multi-cultural Australia we are all part of.

MESSAGE OF

HOPE

Reverend Berlin Guerrero reflects on surfacing from the Covid pandemic. 200173 Picture: GARY SISSONS But we’re not out of the woods yet.

And here is the good news. We can always rely on our faith in God who is with us and in us.

Our experience of dying and rising up again is the assurance that we can overcome all obstacles and challenges that come our way.

Amidst pandemics and wars, we can always persevere, hope and strive for a better world and a better future.

Smile Squad is on its way The Victorian Government is making it easier for our kids to get the dental care they need.

Find out more at smilesquad.vic.gov.au

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 9

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10 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Concerns over rates hike

By Eleanor Wilson A proposed rise in local council rates will be unaffordable for many households in Casey, a residents group says.

Casey Ratepayers Association spokesperson Brendan Browne said the 1.75 per cent rate rise proposed by Casey Council in last week’s 2022-23 draft budget will be a thorn in the flesh for many in the municipality.

“A lot of people will be stressing when they receive their rates notice under this budget,” Mr Browne said.

“For many people, rates are already the single biggest bill for the year. Increasing rates by 1.75 per cent and the garbage charge by 8.5 per cent is a significant increase, that won’t be affordable for so many people.”

Council says waste service charges are levied to recover the costs of Council’s Waste Management services, which are budgeted to increase by 9.3 per cent in 2022-23.

The increase is driven by a multi million-

Casey Ratepayers Association says the 1.75 per cent rate rise will hit many. dollar increase in State Government garbage and recycling levies. With Casey being one of the fastest growing municipalities in the state, Mr Browne believes rates paid by current residents will unjustly benefit future populations in the growth corridor.

“What’s happening is that the population of Casey today is being made to pay for future population growth in the outer suburbs,” he said.

“If we look at Bunjil Place as an example, it was built to serve a much larger population and yet it is today’s ratepayers who are footing the bill.”

He said council should be taking advantage of low interest rates, rather than ratepayers, to repay council loans.

“For some reason council is in a mad hurry to repay the huge loan on Bunjil Place in a total of ten years. It doesn’t make sense to do this when interest rates are low and the cost could be spread over a much larger ratepayer base in ten years’ time.”

The 1.75 per cent rate is a jump from last year’s 1.5 per cent resident rate, but sits in line with the State Government’s cap, which is established each year under the Fair Go Rates System. The system was introduced by the Victorian Government in 2015 to limit the amount councils can increase their resident rates in a year. Before the Fair Go Rates system was introduced residents faced an average rate increase of 6 per cent every year. Casey Coun-

cil says hardship options are available for ratepayers who are unable to meet rate increases, including deferments and waivers of interest and charges.

“We do have a strong commitment to ensuring value for money for this community, most particularly adopting the rate cap as part of that,” City of Casey chair of administrators Noelene Duff said. “Many of the cost impacts on this council’s operations are far greater than that 1.75 per cent, so this becomes a balancing act for us.”

Chief financial officer Bernard Rohan said the state-mandated rate cap was the “key issue that council grapples with each year”. The cap was set lower than previous estimates for the 2022-23 financial year, he said. “In setting the draft 2022-23 budget, officers have had to provide parameters around how we absorb that loss of revenue,” he said.

Council attributed the increased waste management charge to the State Government Landfill Levy and recycling costs.

Helping hand for Anzacs

By Jonty Ralphsmith Eight women from Dandenong RSL were in Melbourne on Friday 22 April raising money for the RSL Welfare Patriotic Fund.

The mature-aged women, have been involved in the RSL since 2019, when President John Wells responded to an assumption one of them made that they could not be involved in the RSL due to their African heritage.

Their involvement since has been limited due to the pandemic, with few informal lunches and conversations forming their primary involvement but have felt wel-

comed and accepted.

With people getting out and about again, Wudad Salim said the women were keen to show their gratitude towards the RSL. “Selling the badges was the least we could do to help the veterans: it is us paying respect so if they need any additional help for community activities we are more than happy to help,” Ms Salim said.

Coming from a region plagued by war before coming to Australia 30 years ago has contributed to Ms Salim’s gratitude.

Her involvement in the RSL has taught her

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ing the information and realise it is so important.”

A day club is being established for African-Australians at the Dandenong RSL to allow relationships to be formed.

Mr Wells said the interest from the women reflected Dandenong’s demographic.

“We’re not going out to be multicultural but we live in a multicultural society so inevitably these things will happen and we welcomed that organic development because Australia has to make the most of people who come here,” he said.

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societal values, such as democracy that soldiers have worked hard to protect, supersede cultural and linguistic differences.

The RSL has helped further integrate the women into society by allowing them to learn more about Australia’s history.

“It’s not something you can ignore when you go to Anzac Day ceremonies on public holidays,” she added.

“You go to watch and then you start understanding their speech, what it’s about, how it relates to your life and how you give meaning to it and slowly you start process-

Cnr McRae & Walker St, Dandenong VIC armadadandenongplaza.com.au

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 11

NEWS

Faces of the local art Seen Visit the Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre between now and June 17 and you’ll be moved by the faces and stories on display.

The Seen exhibition celebrates our local community through portraiture, with entrants capturing the people who live, work and play in Greater Dandenong.

Prizes were offered across four categories, including a People’s Choice category which will be decided by exhibition visitors over the coming weeks.

The Open Category winner was Gabriel Hingley for his portrait painting Gora.

Mr Hingley said he admires Gora Odiel and his family’s resilience who came to Australia to flee a war-torn country, South Sudan.

“I’m pleased to be a part of the Seen portraiture prize and to feature my friend Gora.

“He and his family have been through a lot of hardship, but they have pulled through.

Gora’s father was an important leader of his tribe who was tragically killed in conflict in 1996. His photo portrait sits on the table in my painting.”

Gora had continued his father’s noble legacy of peacekeeping, working to bring different tribes together in harmony, both in South Sudan and here in Dandenong, Mr Hingley says.

In sitting for the portrait Gora wore a brightly patterned shirt in the African tradition.

The gold-rimmed coffee pot and cup symbolises the warm hospitality bestowed in a South Sudanese family home, especially at Gora’s house, Mr Hingley says.

“I am privileged to know someone like Gora and I believe his life is an inspiration to many people, whether African or Aussie, to seek reconciliation and peace in our communities.

“Gora is full of joy and positivity, a natural and well-respected leader and elder amongst the Anuak people in his community. He smiles whenever I see him, and has a dignified presence, so I wanted to capture that in a portrait.”

The launch of Seen at Walker Street Gallery, Dandenong.

Mayor Jim Memeti admires a familiar face.

Portraits with a Greater Dandenong theme.

Gora, the subject of Gabriel’s winning portraiture, said he was happy and excited to be painted by his pastor and friend.

“I have lived in Greater Dandenong for 20 years and living locally has given me many opportunities. I am grateful and very proud to be here.”

Mayor, Cr Jim Memeti said: “(The portrait) Gora represents a great story where two people

from different parts of the world have come together.”

The judges stated it was a compelling portrait, and they loved the creativity, the considered use of lighting and the simple, but impactful and thoughtful background of the subject.

Highly commended was Andrew Duong for the portrait Aysha, and Van Than Dat Dao for

his work Spring on Mother’s Back.

The secondary school category winner was Tarika Wimalasuriya for the work Personality of Three.

The judges were impressed with the level of technical skill and the detail in the intriguing work. They admired the artist’s ability to capture the emotions of the subject.

Highly commended was Freshta Khairi for Self Portrait.

In the primary school category, Fiona Zhou and Areyana Singh were awarded for their work Fiona.

The judges found the work very striking and even though it was small, it was impactful.

The lighting and the capturing of the subject’s emotion was also impressive.

Highly commended was Chad Sun for the portrait Chad S and Faith Taulapapa with the work Mum. Seen was judged by esteemed industry professionals Zia Atahi, Alojz Babic and Esther Gyorki.

Judge and artist Zia Atahi is an independent documentary photographer and abstract painter based in Melbourne. He was born in Ghazni, Afghanistan and came to Australia in 2005.

He said there are so many talents in Greater Dandenong.

“This exhibition is about the stories and faces of this city and I hope we can all learn something from their work,” Zia said.

The Open Category winner took home a $4000 cash prize, while the winners of both the Secondary and Primary School categories won an art materials pack (valued at up to $1000) for themselves and their schools.

Proudly sponsored by The Drum Theatre, the Star News Group and Zart, view the Seen exhibition at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, corner Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong, until Friday 17 June.

Details: greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/seen

Seen Portrait Prize April 5 - June 17 Seen captures the faces of Greater Dandenong, celebrating local community through portraiture. Come explore the depictions of people that make this region the vibrant place it is to work, study and live.

Image Credit: Gabriel Hingley, Gora, Acrylic on canvas, 2022

Learn more

greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/seen

Our Sponsors

Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre Cnr Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong Tues - Fri 12pm - 4pm, 03 9706 8441 greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/arts 12547945-CG18-22

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

FEDERAL ELECTION

Get to know your candidates From page 7

Bruce Ridgway (United Australia Party) Where do you live?

Melbourne Why did you choose to run for the seat of Hotham?

I have a strong attachment to the people within Hotham from working in the electorate for the last 15 years, teaching martial arts to adults and children.

Why did you choose the UAP? There is a shared vision that, at its essence, provides Hope and Opportunity to the people of Australia What do you work as? I teach adults and children how to improve themselves and their lives through teaching them Martial Arts

What’s your family status?

Partner What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing Hotham?

1. Home Ownership and the threat posed by rising interest rates.

2. The rising cost of living.

3. Supporting our local businesses to stay in business and give them the best opportunity to be profitable The three most important policies to you are...?

1. Saving people’s homes by capping home loan interest rates at 3% for five years.

2. Increasing the pension by $90 per week per person.

3. Ensuring businesses pay tax ONCE per year, at the end of the year, Not 4 times per year!

Hotham.

Alex Breskin (Greens)

Isaacs.

Louisa Willoughby (Greens) Where do you live? In Springvale Why did you choose to run for the seat of Hotham? I have lived in Clayton and Springvale for over 20 years. Hotham is both where I live and my community.

Why did you choose the Greens? I’m concerned about climate change and rising inequality – the Greens have strong policies to tackle these issues.

What do you work as? I’m a researcher at Monash University focusing on improving access to services for migrants and people with disabilities.

Boris Sokiransky (One Nation) Where do you live? I live in Keysborough Victoria.

Why do you choose to run for the seat of Isaacs? I reside in the seat of Isaacs, it is in my interest to represent my area.

Why did you choose One Nation? The principle guide of One Nation is People First, not power, wealth or control. I wish to represent humanity as one, unified with dignity and respect as a standard.

What do you work as? I work as an Elderly Support Worker in aged care facility.

What is you family status? Married with four children and a genuine reason for wanting a safe and free future.

What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing the electorate? Employment security; currently the government are and have forced closure of businesses with demands for staff which keep on changing, lockdowns are a constant threat to continuity, in some cases causing closures permanently creating unemployment even financial ruin to some.

Mandates; creating staff shortages in dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

What’s your family status? I’m married with a primary-school aged daughter What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing Hotham?

1. Climate change.

2. Housing affordability.

3. Access to quality, affordable health services The three most important policies to you are...?

1. Stopping coal mining and transitioning Australia to renewable energy to address the climate crisis.

2. Strengthening Medicare to cover dental and mental health care.

3. Fixing the NDIS to ensure people get the support services that they need

vast array of industries while preventing healthy Australians from working.

Unaffordable housing; due to foreign property ownership driving prices to ridiculous highs, average income earners find it next to impossible to purchase property in the area of Isaacs.

Three most important policies to me. Pro Life; Barbaric execution of human beings which are unable to defend their own right to life while being in their mother’s womb must stop, so many adults who cannot conceive wish to raise a child while current laws allow up to full term abortions to take place, only in extreme circumstances should this kind of deprivation of life be conceivable.

Water; build more dams as Australian population is ever expending and without adequate fresh water supply we would face shortages in the future, water is life.

Foreign Ownership; Australian properties for Australians period! Keep our farms, manufacturing and ports in local ownership to promote benefits to our nation.

What people need to recognise is with so many policies being detailed and promises galore is that one’s freedom of choice such as how to live, freedom of movement, bodily autonomy and freedom of speech are the foundation on which all other policies must be based!

Where do you live? I live in Mentone, and have lived in Isaacs for the past 6 years Why did you choose to run for the seat of Isaacs? Isaacs is a community I have learnt well. I have spoken to countless thousands over my time engaging with people in the area, either knocking on their door having a one-to-one or building community groups and campaigning on local issues. I found myself on the committee of the local Residents Association, I have rallied against the continued assault on the Green Wedge against the Mordialloc Freeway, campaigned for new parks and have been part of the customer charter project for local council. I wish to continue serving the community in a greater capacity.

Why did you choose The Greens? The Greens are the only party that has policies that made sense in addressing the climate crisis and having a serious social justice platform, and is free of interference from corporations and billionaires. There was no

Scott McCammish (United Australia Party) Where do you live? I live in Bonbeach, in the south of Isaacs.

Why did you choose to run for the seat of Isaacs? I have always had a keen interest in politics, and have been frustrated by the response to Covid over the last two years or so. A lot of the policy making has not been founded on evidence, and seems to be driven by political expediency. That speaks to possible corruption and is an agenda that seems to be loosely followed in many parts of the world, not just Australia. It seems like we are copying what other countries are doing rather than actually investigating and studying the situation first, using available academic studies. I have a Masters in Public Health, and that is what I leaned from that degree more than anything: study the measure first, evaluate it, THEN apply it. Don’t just apply it and hope it works. Very poor policy making. I have also personally seen the angst that this whole response – especially the mandates – has caused family and friends. This has been mirrored but what voters have told me. Very few, a significant minority, took the vaccine because they thought it would protect their health. That should be a red flag to many, but in sections of the media and in the Labor, Liberal and Greens parties, it hasn’t been.

Why did you choose UAP? Primarily because they wanted to end vaccine mandates, which I am vehemently opposed to. I

point in joining any other party which has shown time and again to just sell out once in government What do you work as? I have been working as a Software Engineer since graduating from Monash University in 2013.

What’s your family status? My parents had me soon after settling here after seeking asylum from the collapsing Soviet Union.

My older sister is currently based in the UK and has two wonderful children. I am currently living on my own.

What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing Isaacs? The Climate Crisis and its current effects here and across the world; the increasing cost of living because of inflation, transport costs, healthcare costs and the enormous cost for a home; transport - being able to get from point A to point B safely and easily.

The three most important policies to you are...? Phasing out mining, burning and export of thermal coal by 2030; funding and improving Medicare with dental and mental health, with a $77.6 billion for free dental and $4.8 for mental healthcare; putting an extra $25 billion into rail and bus services to improve transport across the board.

also knew that we would have the resources to take the fight against mandates to a wider audience than with some of the other parties. I have not regretted my decision for a millisecond. The UAP has been amazing, as are the people in it.

What do you work as? I run my own counselling business and was (prior to running for parliament) working in mental health as part of the NDIS. Prior to that I was in hospitality while I was studying for my psychology and public health degrees. Before that I was in the RAAF for 10 years, and a software developer, for 10 years also, before that.

What’s your family status? I have been married to Julie for 26 years. She is American, but has been a naturalised Australian since 2007. We have two adult children here in Australia and her two adult children from a former relationship live in the US. What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing Isaacs? Cost of living, vaccine mandates and political corruption.

The third issue may surprise you. I commissioned members of my team to conduct surveys of local voters and this is what we found.

The three most important policies to you are...? The first is, perhaps unsurprisingly, ending vaccine mandates, passports and lockdowns.

The second is paying down our $1tril debt. The third is fixing mental health and disability in this country.

The NDIS is working very well but much more funding and research is needed, especially given the impact of lockdowns, mandates, etc., which hasn’t been assessed adequately, or even at all.

Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 13

WHAT’S ON Hemmings Street Precinct Forums The Social Knitwork

The Hemmings Street Precinct ‘Empowering Communities Initiative’ will provide many touch points for community engagement over the next few years.

Location: level 2 Meeting Rooms, Dandenong Civic Centre.

Time: Thursday 5 May 2022, 6:00pm -8:00pm.

· ·The Think Tank–reptiles–Dandenong

Come see snakes, turtles, lizards and even a baby crocodile. Learn what they eat, how they live and what makes a reptile so different to us as well as what dangers they face in the wild.

This session is highly interactive and will keep children captivated as they are given the opportunity to touch and hold the animals.

Target audience – 7-11 year olds.

Location: Dandenong Library.

Time: Saturday 7 May 2022, 3:00pm - 4:00pm.

·· ·Kala Vizha

Tamil Puththaandu Vizha 2022 and Kalai Vizha, is the celebration of Harvest Festival also known as Tamil New Year.

Sunday 8 May 2022, 5:00pm -8:30pm.

Tickets via following link: https://drumticketing.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/vtca2022

··

NEWS

People will be able to see turtles at Dandenong Library on Saturday 7 May.

Friendship Cafe Join us in this welcoming environment where all women can relax, make friends, share experiences, excursion, learn new skills and find pathways to connect to services and opportunity.

The Friendship Cafe will run sessions each

·

If you enjoy knitting and spending time with like minded people, join our Social Knitwork at Dandenong Library each Wednesday morning. Come along and make new friends while building on skills, sharing patterns, stories and good times.

Sessions held every Wednesday 10am12.30pm.

Location: Dandenong Library.

· ·

Tuesday and Wednesday morning, during school term at the Springvale Neighbourhood House.

Paradise Lots Paradise Lots is a community-driven performance project in which a group of young people

transform a multi-storey carpark into a largescale performance space. Over six weeks, Pony Cam has collaborated with a creative network of young artists, helping them to develop their own stories and challenging theatrical forms.

Location: Thomas Street Carpark.

Date: Thursday 12 May 2022, Friday 13 May and Saturday 14 May 7:00pm -8:00pm.

Tickets: https://drumticketing.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/overview/paradiselots

·· ·

First Nations Men’s Gathering Southern Metropolitan Melbourne Region First Nations Men’s Gathering for services and community to come together and explore and discuss what local services have to offer. Food will be provided.

Dardi Munwurro Dandenong Office - 44-46 McCrae Street, Dandenong, VIC 3175.

Date: Wednesday, 4 May 202210:00 am – 4:00 pm.

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com. au/e/first-nations-mens-gathering-southern-metropolitan-melbourne-region-tickets-322914996447

· · ·

Dandenong artist eyeing growth

By Jonty Ralphsmith Dandenong-based artist Shane Vandort looks me in the eye and shakes my hand as we sit down to chat about his fledgling career.

That seemingly archetypal introduction between two relative strangers is significant for Shane.

Shane’s artwork, omitting pupils from his pieces, reveals his struggle with making eyecontact.

He wants to bring others into his sphere, a world where eye contact does not foster emo-

tional connection - something he long battled throughout his youth and early adulthood.

Art has made eye-contact more comfortable, though it still feels foreign and unnatural to Shane.

Part of Shane’s pursuit of art was allowing him to express himself organically, independent of perceived cultural restraints.

The tattoos Shane wears, designed and inked himself, and his pursuit of the arts contradicts his perception of the white-collar Sri Lankan culture.

“I like to think I break down the culture for other people because I’m sure there’s other people that want to be a bit more individual,” Shane said.

A portrait of Shane’s father was the centrepiece of his exhibition at Bunjil Place in April, an important step towards cultural and community acceptance.

Recently, Shane has begun combining his love of nature walks with his artistic flair, picking up pieces of bark that he can draw on.

His increasing immersion in the arts fraternity – he is part of several clubs and now has

several exhibitions under his belt – has mirrored a growth in confidence.

His pupil-less drawings may remain his point-of-difference as an artist but they are moreso an ode to his past difficulties than an illustration of his current disconnect.

“I make a more conscious effort to look people in the eyes, but when I look a person in the eye, I don’t really see anything because I’m so used to not looking people in the eyes,” he said.

Shane will have an exhibition at BLACKCAT Gallery in Fitzroy on Wednesday 30 November.

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

Brett Blake - Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow at the Drum Theatre.

Takashi Wakasugi - Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow at the Drum Theatre.

Jay Wymarra - Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow at the Drum Theatre.

Quell your comedy cravings This May strap yourself in for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow at the Drum Theatre, Dandenong. A night of stand-up, sketch, satire, silliness and song in this rip-roaring road trip designed to satisfy all your comedy cravings.

Featuring Brett Blake (MC), Blake Freeman, Jay Wymarra, Prue Blake (winner 2021 Raw Comedy National Grand Final) and Takashi Wakasugi (Japan) you won’t be disappointed.

Experience young, local talent with new eyes in Paradise Lots. A community-driven performance project that transforms the Thomas Street multi-storey carpark into

Tamil Puththaandu Vivha 2022 and Kalai Vizha Sunday 8 May, 5pm COMMUNITY EVENT

a large-scale performance space. Over six weeks, Pony Cam, an award-winning, contemporary theatre company based in Melbourne, has collaborated with a creative network of young artists, helping them to develop their own stories to challenge theatrical forms. This is an all-ages event.

Join the Drum for the Australian premiere of Newsies Jr. A timeless story full of spirit and heart, Disney’s Newsies Jr. is a version of the 2012 Broadway musical.

Inspired by the rousing true story of newsboys in turn-of-the-century New York City, Newsies Jr. features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken and Jack Feldman and

Paradise Lots Thursday 12 May, 7pm Friday 13 May, 7pm Saturday 14 May, 7pm

a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein.

Try this charming theatre for the first time or come back to a familiar favourite. The varied program will delight with something for everyone at prices that will surprise. Save yourself the drive to the city and support local business by booking a performance at the Drum.

Time to enjoy that special magic of live performance again. This May meet you at the Drum.

To learn more, visit drum.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au or call 03 8571 1666, 10am4pm, Monday-Friday.

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow Saturday 21 May, 7.30pm COMEDY

The Sapphires Thursday 30 June, 7.30pm DRAMA AND MUSIC

Brass Monkeys – school holiday circus Saturday 2 July, 2pm

Circling Time – Kutcha Edwards Friday 8 July, 7.30pm

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SONG AND STORIES

Opera Australia – The Barber of Seville Friday 15 July, 7.30pm Saturday 16 July, 7.30pm

Victorian State Ballet – The Little Mermaid Saturday 20 August, 7.30pm Sunday 21 August, 2.30pm

DRAMA AND MUSIC

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NEWS

Support for young vets

By Marcus Uhe Botanic Ridge Iraq veteran Stuart Couch is using Anzac Day to raise awareness of the Young Veterans group.

Established by Chris and Scott May, Afghanistan veterans who grew up in Berwick, Young Veterans is a volunteer run and operated group open to anyone who has served in the regular or reserve armed forces.

Mr Couch is a volunteer with Young Veterans South East Melbourne and said the group was about connectig those who have experienced similar incidents and telling stories that people would understand.

“It’s about social interactions, celebrating Anzac Day all year round, catching up with like-minded people and sharing that brotherhood and camaraderie,” Mr Couch said.

“Most of the guys that I served with are spread around the country so catching up with them is difficult due to distance.

“Young Veterans helps to make new bonds and friendships in your local community.”

Events run by the group include camping trips, sailing lessons, barbecues, dinners at local restaurants and RSLs. Veterans are also encouraged to pitch hobbies and projects with a community or group focus.

“If you’ve got an idea of something you want to do, we’ll support you, as long as it involves other people.”

Young Veterans operates separately from RSL groups, as some veterans suffer from the incorrect perception that RSL groups are only for those that served in the World Wars, The Korean War or Vietnam, according to Mr Couch, a committee member at the Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL. He said one of the primary roles of the group was to ensure former defence members had someone to talk to in times of need.

Young Veterans is designed to help those who have returned from the battlefield build a social network. 276618

Stuart Couch is a volunteer for Young Veterans. 277644 Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare published in September 2021 found the suicide rate compared to the Australian population for ex-service males was 24 per cent higher, and 102 per cent higher for exservice women.

Mr Couch put this down to experiencing a lack of validity compared to what we know of the experiences of the original ANZACs.

Picture: MARCUS UHE

“Some struggle with living up to the idea of what a veteran is if they’re not running on beaches at Gallipoli, and if they haven’t faced the same type of warfare, their experiences don’t equate to the same thing,” Mr Couch said.

“As soldiers we’re always taught to move forward to the next objective but sometimes when you fall into a hole it’s hard to find your way out.”

“You need somebody to reach in and help you get out and put you in a positive direction.”

To get involved with the Young Veterans group or to find your local chapter, visit youngveterans.com.au/ Young Veterans interested in connecting with the South East Melbourne Chapter can join their Facebook group, Young Veterans South East Melbourne.

If the contents in this story has raised concerns for you, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, or Beyond Blue, at beyondblue.org.au/ Veterans experiencing mental health concerns are encouraged to contact Open Arms on their 24-hour support service line at 1800 011 046 or head to openarms.gov.au/about/ our-story

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Second go at life

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

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

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.

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STAR JOURNAL 17

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

• 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

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18 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

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STAR JOURNAL 19

Trades & Services

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The proposal consists of the removal of existing panel antennas, steelwork mounts and anciillaires and the installation of 5G and 4G panel antennas on new mounts on the rooftop as follows:

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V Public Notices and Event

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

Southern Rural Water (SRW) wishes to advise of an application to construct a new bore and to take and use 17.5 megalitres of groundwater for irrigation purposes on land described as 324-334 Perry Road, Keysborough.

It is proposed that the bore will be approximately 80 metres in depth and constructed in accordance with the Minimum Construction Requirements For Water Bores in Australia. All groundwater proposed to be extracted will be sourced from the unincorporated Groundwater Management Area.

Southern Rural Water is committed to an appropriate consultation process to ensure the proper consideration of relevant matters as prescribed by the Water Act 1989.

We therefore seek comment from any interested person or parties that considers they may be affected by these applications. Submissions on this proposal will be accepted until 4pm on 30 May 2022 and will be taken into account in determining these applications.

Please direct enquiries and submissions to: Trevor McDevitt Manager Applications.

P.O.Box 153 Maffra Vic 3860 Telephone 1300 139 510

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In accordance with Section 7 of C564: 2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal.

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20 STAR JOURNAL

|

Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Nominations open Nominations are now open for the Juan Carlos Loyola OAM Award for Longstanding Community Service.

The award is presented to a resident of southeast Melbourne who has shown a longterm dedication to the local community through their volunteer work.

Longstanding volunteers from a variety of community groups are encouraged to nominate.

The winner of the 2022 Juan Carlos Loyola OAM Award for Longstanding Community Service is chosen by a panel of local residents and active community members, including Juan Carlos Loyola.

Nominations will close on Monday 6 June 2022.

The award is named after Juan Carlos Loyola OAM, who has worked tirelessly for almost 30 years with the All Abilities Soccer Academy, previously known as the Doveton

Special Soccer School, and is presented and sponsored by State Member for Narre Warren North, Luke Donnellan MP. “There are many people across this community who give so much back to others through clubs and associations and that should be celebrated,” Mr Donnellan said.

“This award was created to help celebrate and thank the community spirit and hard work of long-term volunteers.”

Juan Carlos Loyola from the All Abilities Soccer Academy sees the physical and emotional benefits that sports participation can bring for people with an intellectual disability.

“All this happens in an inclusive environment of equality, respect and acceptance” said Juan Carlos Loyola OAM. For nomination forms please contact Luke Donnellan’s office on 9706 0566. A presentation for the winner of the 2022 award will take place on Friday 24 June 2022.

Nominations are open for people who give back to the community.

Picture: SUPPLIED

No ‘knockout blow’ in election stoush Despite gaffes and controversies, there has been no “knockout blow” in the 21 May federal election sparring so far, says a politics expert.

Monash University politics senior lecturer Dr Zareh Ghazarian says election polls seem to have been locked in for a comfortable Labor win for some months.

Labor’s two-party preferred polling hadn’t dipped below 53 since last year.

“It suggests there is not much volatility in the electorate and that people already made up their minds a while back – which is particularly troubling for the Government.”

The major parties still have ‘fairly unpopular leaders”, Dr Ghazarian said.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s popularity has elevated slightly in the opening weeks, despite controversy around Warringah candidate Katherine Deves.

Opposition leader Anthony Albanese’s isolation from the campaign due to Covid illness – after a first week dominated by his unemployment rate gaffe - was so far having little impact.

“Unless (the illness) had gone on a bit longer I can’t see it having an impact on Labor’s performance in the polls.

“Because it was in the second week, there’s still plenty of time for the Opposition leader to take part in the final weeks of the campaign.”

So far, the campaign themes followed a “fairly standard policy pattern”. The Coalition

had hammered issues such as the economy and jobs, and the ALP also the economy, cost of living, health and education.

After a subdued Easter and Anzac Day period, Dr Ghazarian expects campaigning and advertising to be “frenzied” ahead of 9 May – when early voting centres open.

“I’d expect a lot of people to vote early like the last time around. “ In the meantime, voters can expect a barrage of campaign ads across TV, social media, print, and radio.

“This will be when the campaign budget will be largely spent, in that goal to attract as many voters as they can.

“It will focus on what the Government has done, and what it will do in the future.”

General Classifieds

1235322622-PB22-17

Rainbow Dolls $100/ 30mins Open 7 days 48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B V

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Garage Sales

KEYSBOROUGH 44 Bracknell Street, Saturday 7th of May, 9am-12pm.

Fridge, mower, beds etc.

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Massage Therapists

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

Firewood

Redgum Firewood

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Garage Sales

12400498-CG38-18

PLACE YOUR

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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

Café roles available in Clayton and Dandenong, Calvino Cafes.

Full training is provided, café experience is not necessary.

Buy & Sell in our

Required: A friendly approach to working with people.

Motoring section of Network Classifieds.

Interested please contact Luke on 0418 172 262 or luke@hudsongroup.com.au

CALL OR VISIT US ONLINE! networkclassifieds.com.au

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Accommodation

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

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DOVETON F/F room in 2 Bedroom rustic older style house, 5 minute walk to bus stop and 10 mins from CBD, suit student or pensioner, M and F welcome, $150 (incl).

Ph Gary 0435 304 4104

Buy, Rent & Sell in the

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Positions Vacant

General Classifieds section of Network Classifieds.

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

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All smiles at Ross Reserve as Melbourne City came out.

Multiple Café Staff Roles Available

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

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Pets & Services

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Adult Services

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April has been a fun month at Noble Park’s Ross reserve as Greater Dandenong Council has run a range of activities.

Soccer clinics run in conjunction with Melbourne City Football Club took place in the first week of school holidays.

“The club has seen the passion for the game in this region and it’s exciting to be out meeting the local community and creating connections through a love of the game,” said Sunil Menon, head of community at Melbourne City Football Club.

A skateboarding masterclass was also run with Shredability and will occur weekly until 12 May with classes for beginner and advanced levels It comes as the council encouraged residents to make their move and enjoy the facilities by exploring these activities.

Employment

12547539-DL18-22

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Fun at Noble Park

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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

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STAR JOURNAL 21

SPORT

Ryan sends his Regards

By David Nagel Tough-as-teak gelding Regardsmaree has earned himself a trip to Adelaide after a stirring victory in the Listed $160,000 Anniversary Vase (1400m) at Sandown Hillside on Saturday.

The now five-year-old – out of So You Think/ Rossa Mia - was originally an exciting prospect for Ballarat trainer Henry Dwyer, but is now thriving after switching to the camp of Nick Ryan at Flemington towards the end of 2020.

Regardsmaree won four of his first five races for Ryan, but hadn’t greeted the judge - until this preparation – since February last year.

But Ryan and his gelding are quickly making up for lost time, winning the $250,000 VOBIS Gold Sprint (1200m) at Caulfield last week, before backing up for Saturday’s Listed win at Sandown.

Ryan was thrilled with the victory, and equally excited about the ride of jockey Billy Egan who carried out instructions to the letter.

“We had a plan and he executed it 150 percent,” Ryan said post-race.

“We were a little bit worried about letting Buffalo River get out of sights, so I told him to go forward and aim for the one-one and work it out from there.

“And it was lucky he did because we probably wouldn’t have run him down otherwise.

“This is good, I’ve got some great owners that I’ve had some great luck with and to get a Stakes winner for them today is very rewarding.”

Despite the quick back-up Ryan was confident heading into Saturday’s contest, and now has high hopes of a tilt at the Group-1 $750,000 Goodwood Handicap (1200m) at Morphettville on Saturday 14 May. “We love him on the back up, obviously we wouldn’t have run him today if we didn’t think he was well,” Ryan explained.

“He was hard and fit and we might have an exciting three weeks ahead…we might keep him fresh and go to Adelaide now.”

One thing Regardsmaree will need in Adelaide is good gate manners, and jockey Egan said the gelding had been on his best behaviour over the last fortnight “I’ve been very fortunate because the last two weeks he’s began very well and that just makes my job so much easier when he’s willing to begin from the gates cleanly,” Egan said.

“I just had to stay neutral, not panic, and we had plenty of time down the back straight to find a position from there.”

Egan said two tough runs and a light weight had Regardsmaree primed for a great run in the Goodwood.

“This week was a little less hard work, because I didn’t have to throw him across the line, but I think the Goodwood could be within reach, with a light weight,” Egan said.

Regardsmaree hits the front and heads for home in the Anniversary Vase at Sandown on Saturday. 279088

Two in two weeks. Jockey Billy Egan returns Regardsmaree to scale after their impressive win at Sandown. 279088 “And I’ve noticed the last two times I’ve ridden him he appreciates coming off a good speed, and there’ll be good speed in a race like that.

“He’ll be the one chiming in late.”

Pictures: PAT SCALA/RACING PHOTOS

Trainer Nick Ryan was all smiles after the win of Regardsmaree on Saturday. 279088

Regardsmaree has now won eight of 27 starts and amassed an impressive $660,000 in prizemoney.

Other highlights at Sandown included an early race-to-race double for jockey Beau

Mertens, while Matthew Cartwright also rode two winners on the card on Agreeable and Starry legend.

Racing next returns to Sandown on Wednesday 11 May.

Bergman on a roller-coaster debut for the Kangaroos

By Tyler Lewis It was a whirlwind of emotions for Miller Bergman on Saturday night.

The former Dandenong Stingrays and Berwick product was a late in for North Melbourne’s clash against Carlton on Saturday night, with defender Aidan Corr making his way out of the side due to health and safety protocols.

There was no waiting around on debut for Bergman, who was listed on the field, as opposed to the medical substitute.

Unfortunately, the teenage debutant suffered a shoulder injury in the second term and was forced from the ground.

The extremity of Bergman’s injury is yet to be determined, but he was ultimately subbed off for the remainder of the game.

While far from his dream start to a long and successful AFL career, Bergman was able to get his first kick away to get off the mark before his debut match was cut short.

Bergman donned jumper number 27, formerly worn by North premiership players 22 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 3 May, 2022

Bergman and Crocker with the famous 27...

Keith Greg (1975) and Darren Crocker (1996).

Crocker presented Bergman with his jumper in the rooms ahead of the match.

Picture: NORTH MELBOURNE FC “Keith Greg, a legend of this football club presented me with this jumper 37 years ago, I was a skinny young fella like yourself,” he said.

“He said to me ‘you know what, it’s your number, it’s your career, this an opportunity to make it your own’.” dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Wetering in Pies debut

By Lachlan Mitchell Matt Wetering made his long-awaited debut for the Collingwood VFL side against Coburg on Saturday.

The Springvale Districts forward made his impact felt as the Magpies had a 104-point win over the Lions at Piranha Park.

Wetering finished the day with 10 disposals and one goal in the comprehensive win.

The forward missed the first quarter of the season due to injury and was anxious heading into the clash.

“There was a lot of nervous energy heading into the game, because I have been injured for the first 12 weeks,” Wetering explained.

“I didn’t get to play a practice match and you just want to get out there and play.

“When you get out there and play for the first five minutes, you are running around there like a head-less chook.

“Once you get your head in the game and find your groove it all becomes normal again, you just want to get out there and play.”

Wetering has been prolific for the Demons - kicking 64 goals in a Covid-interrupted 2021 season.

The footy just flies around, so much faster in the VFL,” he explained.

“At a local level you can hum and ha and what angles you are going to run, and what position you’re going to move to next.

“At VFL if you think it’s already gone past you, it’s too late.

“But the teammates at Collingwood are unreal, they really help you. They tell you where to move and what to do.

“It’s just the pace of the game and the bigger bodies, everyone is bigger and taller than you.

“At local level you get different body types.

Everyone is at the same level in VFL...it’s a lot harder to get marks and goals.”

USA import Mason Cox also featured in the forward-line alongside Wetering.

The big-man had 21 disposals alongside his three goals.

“He’s (Cox) a wealth of experience and cause he’s so big, he dominated the match,” Wetering said.

“Cox has played enough footy now to be an experienced campaigner, he’s been around the block with the AFL experience.

“You know what to do with him and where to put it, when you stand around him, you know he’s going to be the centre of attention.

“It’s such good experience to play with someone who has played at the highest level.”

Wetering hit the scoreboard three times kicking a behind and then having a set-shot to seal his first VFL goal.

“I had a set shot-the quarter before, which was an easier kick and I missed that to the right-hand side,” he said.

“The goal was probably 50 out and on an angle. I prefer kicking them from further out than from straight in front...I always have.

“As soon as I kicked it, the monkeys off your back. As a forward all I want to do is kick goals and kicking my first was almost like taking your first wicket, you can tick it off.”

The debutant will make his return to Robinson’s Reserve next week - as Collingwood has a VFL bye.

Matt Wetering went from a Demon to a Magpie as he made his debut in the VFL. 279102 Picture: SPRINGVALE DISTRICTS FACEBOOK

Speed Star at Sandown Park set down for late May

By Jason Adams The Bill Collins Speed Star returns to Sandown Park on Thursday 26 May. It’s one of the sport’s most exciting events and it returns to the track after the most recent edition was held at The Meadows last August.

“The match racing format is clearly very popular, and we’re thrilled to host it. We thank GRV’s Racing Department for their support of the series,” said Adrian Scott, Sandown Park CEO. It will see one event over 515m with $10,000 going to-the-winner of each of the four match races. A further $15,000 will go to the overall winner with the fastest time.

The matches will take up the first four races of the meeting which makes it easier to under-

stand for those unfamiliar with the concept, as opposed to the traditional full field broken up into four match races.

To make the racing as competitive as possible, the eight finalists will be matched up as per their qualifying order (1 v 2, 3 v 4, 5 v 6, 7 v 8).

Qualification bracket is from March 1 to Sunday May 22. As normal greyhounds have the opportunity to trial their way into the Bill Collins Speed Star, opportunities will be this Sunday May 1, Sunday May 8 and Sunday May 22.

There will be an opportunity for interstate greyhounds to trial on Thursday May 19 – RSN Sandown Cup night.

Wow She’s Fast tops the current standings with her phenomenal 28.927 win in the Launching Pad final.

Before he was playing in AFL Grand Final’s, Cody Wightman was a Vic Country representative.

Picture: KATE MITCHELL

Young guns set to shine

By Tyler Lewis The biggest stage of under-age football is set.

The dates for the 2022 NAB AFL National Carnival Championships are locked and loaded, as the country’s best prospects gear up for the biggest games of their career to date.

The under-16 and under-18 boys matches will be played predominantly over June and July, with the under-18 tournament set to conclude with a highly-anticipated Vic Country v Vic Metro clash on AFL Grand Final eve on Friday 23 September.

In the past, the Metro v Country clash has been played on the MCG with a sensational Indigenous ceremony. But, considering the contest is on set to be played less than 24 hours before the AFL Grand dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Final, expect the match to be played at either Marvel Stadium, or Richmond Football Club’s Swinburne Centre.

Vic Country representation has been a tremendous launching pad for Dandenong Stingray’s in the past.

Lachie Whitfield, Jacob Weitering, Hunter Clark, Hayden Young, Caleb Serong, and Cody Weightman were all strong performers for Vic Country, which ultimately led to their first round AFL Draft selections.

VIC COUNTRY UNDER-18 FIXTURE: Sun, 26 June: v South Australia – Thebarton Oval Adelaide Sun, 3 July: v Allies – Gold Coast Sun, 17 July: Western Australia – GMHBA Stadium Geelong Fri, 23 September: Vic Metro – TBC

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STAR JOURNAL 23

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