Dandenong Star Journal - 24th January 2023

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Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

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Police operation nets 12 arrests

Businesses prepare for plastic ban

Tensions high at Lois Twohig Reserve

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SPORT

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Happy Lunar New Year!

World Fare Night a hit An explosion of colour filled the City of Greater Dandenong last week as World Fare Night wrapped up at the market.

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Enough is enough

By Sahar Foladi Just when they thought they had endured enough, the Bakhtar Community was slammed with the news they had been hit by a third burglary in the space of a month.

The first two incidents took place in December and now a third incident this month has left the community shattered.

CEO Bassir Qadiri said they had a truck load of items delivered by the Rotary Club with sewing machines along with other items.

“At 3pm we put everything inside and we

left because we had distribution the next day,” he said.

“Next day at 10am we came to see everything was a mess.”

The burglars left the entire warehouse in disarray, leaving the Bakhtar community volunteers to clean it up for the second time.

“Even in main building they smashed all the items and broken a lot of stationery in the office.”

The police have been called for the third time now and investigators are working on the case.

Mr Qadiri says their neighbour heard some sounds around 9:30pm on the evening of the incident.

He said neighbours may have captured vision on their CCTV cameras, but is disappointed as they’re unwilling to share the footage with investigators.

The police are looking to issue a warrant to get a hold of the CCTV footage.

The Bakhtar Community warehouse in Noble Park is on council land which has been leased to the organisation to carry out their work for the community.

They’ve been unable to install a CCTV camera on premises due to lack of electricity.

Mayor Eden Foster said, “It was agreed from the outset that electricity would not be provided as it would be a large cost to council, and the building is scheduled for demolition to increase open space in the municipality.”

However, the council has been working closely with the organisation to build a fence and place bollards to put an end to the breakins.

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NEWS

Happy Lunar New Year!

By Sahar Foladi In Melbourne, the Chinese Lunar New Year Festival historically attracts over 100,000 people to the city’s Chinatown each year.

This year the Chinese Lunar New Year will be on 22 January on Sunday and here’s everything you need to know about it.

What is Lunar New Year?

The Lunar new year is the start of the New Year in the Chinese calendar and there’s an animal associated with each year.

This year’s animal is Rabbit, the fourth animal in the Chinese zodiac. But for the 258,000 Vietnam-born Australian residents, the fourth animal is a cat.

Guo Nian Hao means Happy New Year How is Lunar New Year celebrated?

There are many traditional celebrations that occur during the new year celebrations.

Elder family members hand out money in red envelopes to younger ones to symbolise prosperity for the year ahead. Firecrackers are also a cornerstone of most celebrations red clothes and decorations also feature.

The Lunar New Year is a time to feast and visit family members.

Cleaning the house to farewell the old year before the new one is ushered in is also common to bring luck and prosperity for the year ahead.

The dragon is a Chinese symbol of good fortune which is why the Lunar New Year is celebrated with dragon dance to highlight the festival celebrations.

Similarly, the lion dance is also considered good fortune and to chase away evil spirits, it is considered as one of the important traditions for the new year.

What does the Rabbit mean?

In Chinese zodiac, there’s a repeating cycle of 12 years and each year is represented by one of the 12 animals.

In order, the 12 animals are rat, ox, tiger,

Part of the Hung Hing Lion Dance team that paraded through the streets. This was a drummer being pushed through the crowd on a cart.

Hung Hing Lion Dance Association performing at Springvale. 314959 rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig.

Each animal symbolises something and this year’s rabbit is known to be the luckiest out of all the 12 animals.

It symbolises mercy, elegance, and beauty.

The sign is a symbol of longevity, peace and prosperity in the Chinese culture. This year is predicted to be the year of hope.

The animals also correspond with the year a person was born which represents important details about them.

People who are born in the year of the rabbit are calm and peaceful. They avoid fighting and arguing, but are artistic and have good taste in life.

What events are there in Melbourne?

January 21: Venues around the city will be pulling out all the stops to celebrate Lunar New Year. Watch on as a traditional lion

·

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

dance makes its way through the Queen Victoria Market to celebrate Lunar New Year and the Year of the Rabbit.

January 19 - February 14: Melbourne Museum, the National Gallery of Victoria, and the Crown Melbourne will all be hosting events to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

Apart from this, City of Greater Dandenong and various other municipalities are also celebrating by holding their own events locally.

On Sunday 15 January, there was a massive Lunar New Year event held in Springvale with thousands of people in attendance.

Springvale Library also celebrated with a lion dance on Sunday 15 January and Dandenong Plaza welcomed the year of the Rabbit with a traditional lion dance performance.

Celebrations are spread throughout Australia with events taking place across the country to celebrate the year of the Rabbit.

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Hung Hing Lion Dance Association performing at Springvale.

Victoria Police launches major officer recruitment drive Tens of thousands of people who’ve expressed interest in pursuing a career in policing will be contacted as part of a major recruitment drive.

More than 40,000 potential recruits who have previously applied to join Victoria Police but missed out, registered for a careers information session or signed up to learn about the police fitness test will be contacted over coming weeks.

Those who have withdrawn an application will also be included.

It coincides with the staging of a dedicated policing careers expo where people can learn more about joining the force.

The event is being held to coincide with the university offer period, with Victoria Police keen to ensure young people don’t discount starting a policing career early.

Acting Superintendent Charmaine Hosking from the Victoria Police recruitment division said, “We know these people have shown an interest in policing at some point so it makes sense to check in.

Life circumstances change, people’s priorities change and now might just be the time for them to pick up where they left off.”

The potential police pool, comprising people Victoria Police has been in contact with as far back as 2016, will receive an email or phone call to check whether their circumstances have changed and their interest in speaking about Victoria Police’s career options.

Those interested will be supported with further information and guided through the application process.

It’s the first time Victoria Police has embarked on such an effort.

“Policing is a challenging rewarding career and we don’t want anyone to discount all it can provide,” Mr Hosking said.

The 18 January careers expo, to be held at Kensington Town Hall, will enable potential recruits to learn more about the opportunities working in policing can provide.

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Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

It’s the first time Victoria Police has embarked on such an effort towards recruitment.

“We haven’t held a careers expo since before Covid, so please take the opportunity to come along and talk to our recruitment team.

It could be the start of an amazing career.”

Attendees will be talked through the recruitment process and gets the chance to meet police working in general duties and specialist units.

While the force continues to look to people with life experience for much of its recruitment pool, it is reminding suitable younger people including those who have

recently finished secondary school or taken a gap year they can also be considered.

Those who have been involved in volunteer work, demonstrated leadership qualities and played community sport are especially well placed to apply.

Part-time work, particularly in customer service, can also assist in demonstrating an aptitude for a policing role.

Applicants do not need an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank to apply but must have completed year 12 if aged under 21.

Victoria Police in October last year launched a major recruitment campaign as it adds an extra 502 police and 50 protective services officers over two years.

It’s also streamlining the recruitment process, with a trial starting this month to explore options in exam testing so applicants can complete it online anywhere, any time.

Anyone interested in a policing career and the upcoming expo, to run from 3pm-8pm, can find further information at police.vic. gov.au/police. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Confusion over location

By Sahar Foladi It’s been over two weeks since the Andrews Labor Government announced the opening of Priority Primary Care Centre (PPCC) in Dandenong to help Dandenong Hospital’s emergency department.

However, Operations Manager Riekie Jooste said due to lack of advertisement a lot of people weren’t aware the PPCC was up and running or weren’t aware of its purpose.

“First of all, one of our challenge for the patient is they don’t understand what PPCC are for because there’s not a lot of advertisements done about it so they don’t know that they have access to after-hours services and they don’t need to go to emergency department,” Ms Jooste said.

Ms Jooste also said the location of the PPCC was confusing the community and people were finding it difficult to find the care centre.

“Our main challenge that we found was

patient couldn’t find us because of the way our address is registered with the council, this whole building area has been registered as 1/134 Logis Boulevard and patients are going to the main gate not knowing which way to go,” she said.

In respons, the centre is planning to put up signs to help guide the locals.

The centre is open from Monday to Sunday from 7am to 11pm with access to X-rays, pathology, ultrasound, CT scan, which are all ac-

cessible for after hours as well so people don’t have to go to emergency departments (ED).

“We’ve got some of the best emergency doctors,” Ms Jooste said.

“The emergency nurses that work here are highly qualified,” Ms Jooste said.

The care centre is also fully equipped to look after pregnant women in their first trimester as well as any other patients who need urgent care but not an emergency response.

Crime op nets 12 arrests

Burglars strike a third time

Ring it in

By Sahar Foladi A ring which was handed down through generations and was reported missing has been found.

The ring was lost when Maryann Lengyel took off her engagement ring to wash her hands at Interhealth Medical Clinic’s bathroom in Dingley Village.

Since then, the family has been distraught offered a $1000 cash freward for its retrieval.

The family was pleased when the ring was returned at the start of the year by a patient at the clinic who accidentally picked it up.

“This ring is very sentimental to our family and has been passed down through the generations. It is irreplaceable,” daughter Malisa Lengyel said. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

They’ve been unable to install a CCTV camera on premises due to lack of electricity.

The Mayor, Eden Foster said, “It was agreed from the outset that electricity would not be provided as it would be a large cost to council, and the building is scheduled for demolition to increase open space in the municipality.”

However, the council have been working closely with the organisation to build a fence and place bollards to put an end to this.

“Council will pay for a contractor to have these works completed. Bakhtar Community Organisation will receive a key to lock the removable bollards to further assist with their operations,” Cr Foster said.

Council is also discussing with Bakhtar Community Organisation about the possibility of installing a battery solar powered CCTV camera in the short-term.

Meanwhile, the organisation will distribute whatever that’s left and will delay the distribution for the next week as they plan to get works done with the council.

“We promised some people to come take extra packages we don’t want them to go empty handed. We cannot take risks so we delayed the next delivery, so we’ll have it in February in Hallam.

Once everything is secured than we will resume the normal operation,” Mr Qadiri said.

The organisation is looking forward to their free music night event on 28 January in Keysborough before they can resume normal operations again.

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Eight youths have been remanded and a further 12 arrested across Melbourne’s south-east and eastern suburbs. conduct endangering serious injury, unlicensed driving, fail to stop on police direction, drive at speed dangerous, and commit an indictable offence while on bail.

Three 15-year-old boys charged with theft of motor vehicle, theft, and commit an indictable offence while on bail while one of them was also charged with criminal damage and assault.

A further seven youths were bailed to appear before a children’s court at a later date including: A 14-year-old boy charged with assault, affray, aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle, theft, burglary, trespass, criminal damage and commit an indictable offence while on bail.

A 13-year-old boy charged with attempted aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle and handle stolen goods.

A 15-year-old boy charged with false imprisonment, burglary, robbery, and commit an indictable offence while on bail.

A 15-year-old boy charged with theft of motor vehicle, burglary, theft, unlicensed driving, and commit an indictable offence while on bail.

Three 15-year-old boy charged with theft of motor vehicle and one of them commit an indictable offence while on bail.

Five youths were arrested and interviewed at the Dandenong Police Station before being released pending summons.

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As soon as they thought they’ve had enough, the Bakhtar Community was slammed with the news of third burglary since December 2022.

The first two incidents took place in December and now a third incident recently has left the community shattered.

CEO Bassir Qadiri said they had a truck load of items delivered by the Rotary club with sewing machines along with other items.

“At 3pm we put everything inside and we left because we had distribution the next day.

Next day at 10am we came to see everything was a mess.”

The burglars had left the entire warehouse in a mess, leaving the Bakhtar community volunteers to clean it up for the second time now.

“Even in main building they smashed all the items and broken a lot of stationary in the office.”

The police have been called for the third time now and investigators are working on the case.

Mr Qadiri says their neighbour heard some sounds around 9:30 pm and may have captured something on their CCTV camera, but is disappointed as they’re unwilling to share the footage to investigators.

The police are looking to issue a warrant to get a hold of the CCTV footage.

The Bakhtar Community warehouse in Noble Park is a Council land which has been leased to the organisation to carry out their work for the community.

Eight youths have been remanded and a further 12 arrested across Melbourne’s south-east and eastern suburbs following a string of property and vehicle crimes.

As part of Operation Alliance, detectives from the Southern Metro Crime Team (SMRCT) and the Dandenong based Youth Gang Team joined forces between Friday 30 December and Tuesday 3 January.

Detectives allege the 20 youths were involved in 61 incidents between 23 December – 3 January, including aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle, burglary and attempted aggravated burglary.

The incidents occurred across Melbourne’s southeast and eastern suburbs including Officer, Balwyn North, Balwyn, Surrey Hills, Glen Waverley, Wantirna South, Scoresby, Malvern, Malvern East, Mt Eliza, Mulgrave, Heathmont, Bayswater, Ashwood, Aspendale Gardens, Waterways, Heatherton, Brighton East, Glen Iris, and Cheltenham.

As a result of the arrests, 21 stolen cars have been recovered from 17 addresses.

Of the 20 arrested, eight youths were remanded to appear before a children’s court at later dates including: A 14-year-old boy charged with assault, affray, false imprisonment, attempted aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle, burglary, theft, robbery, criminal damage, obtain property by deception, unlicensed driving, handle stolen goods, and commit an indictable offence while on bail.

A 13-year-old boy charged with assault, affray, false imprisonment, aggravated burglary, attempted aggravated burglary, theft of motor vehicle, theft, burglary, robbery, criminal damage, and commit an indictable offence while on bail.

A 15-year-old boy charged with false imprisonment, theft of motor vehicle, robbery, burglary, and commit indictable offence while on bail.

A 12-year-old boy charged with false imprisonment, theft of motor vehicle, burglary, robbery, theft, obtain property by deception, and commit an indictable offence while on bail.

A 15-year-old girl charged with theft of motor vehicle, theft, burglary, reckless

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Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

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NEWS

Vibrant start to new year

By Sahar Foladi An amusing day for the community as Springvale celebrated its 31st annual Lunar New Year on Sunday 15 January.

The free Springvale Lunar New Year festival was back this year with flourishing colours and activities for the whole day.

The festival consists of vibrant mix of live music, food, traditional and international dance including, lion dance, African and Mexican dance and hip hop, Japanese drums, firecrackers and more for the entire day.

The event took over Buckingham Avenue and surrounds from 11am to 10 pm.

Organised by the not for profit, Springvale Asian Business Association (SABA) in partnership with City of Greater Dandenong, the event was a hit with a great turnout by the locals.

Fireworks erupted from the Buckingham and Queens Avenue intersection at 9.30pm, which marked the end of the celebrations for the day.

Established in 1987, the organisation has become widely known and respected for its works in culturally diverse communities.

The organisation provides a networking platform for local businesses aon topics and issues between the council and traders such as economic development, streetscape, local by-laws, food safety, Covid, training and drug awareness.

The Springvale Lunar New Year which SABA has been holding every year since 1993 has been one of the more famous and wellknown festivals.

In 2020 it drew a crowd of more than 60,000.

President of SABA Daniel Cheng said the feedback was amazing from participants.

“I have organised multicultural performance programs before and everyone loved

Picture: GARY SISSONS

Daniel Cheng with Vincent Golf pictured with Rabbit. 315598 it, every year but this year had more variety,” he said.

It’s estimated that 80,000 people attended throughout the whole day.

“The highest number will be during the fireworks at 9:30pm, I would say 6000 people,” Mr Cheng said.

He also said it was the first time almost all of City of Greater Dandenongs councillors were in attendance. The new CEO Jacqui Weatherill also attended.

There were 65 stalls and Mr Cheng said that most of the stall holders products were almost finished.

Jim Memeti posted on Facebook, “SABA plays a very important role in supporting the community and businesses in Springvale. We appreciate all that you do to making Springvale, sensational Springvale.”

SABA was nominated to receive the Victorian Multicultural Commission Ambassador Award in 2005.

Secretary General for SABA Vincent Golf

said it was largely a very well arranged event, incident free.

Mr Golf said from where he stood on the stage he could see participants shoulder to shoulder.

“The people were shoulder to shoulder for all the way down to the Ferris wheel on the other side of the festival.”

Mr Cheng said they will continue to have fireworks and display performances and foods from different cultural backgrounds as much as possible.

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On the mend.

Glad I’m back!

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Greg (work) – 20th Feb

How are you?

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If you’re recovering from a psychological or physical workplace injury, or if you are an employer supporting an injured worker, make contact as soon as possible. It just takes a few simple words to make a big difference.

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Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

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NEWS

Plastic ban to hit business

By Sahar Foladi From 1 February 2023, single-use plastics will be banned from sale or supply in Victoria.

The ban includes plastic straws, cutlery, plates, stirrers and cotton buds.

Joy Kinczel, owner of Justice Specialty Coffee in Dandenong and Nessy from Nessy’s cafe, said it’s definitely more expensive to change to different plastics in line with the new laws.

“I know it’s more expensive but I haven’t compared it to my current rate. I would say at least 15 per cent more. A lot of the new ones are quite a bit more in price.”

Nessy said her business will be impacted negatively due to the prices.

“I have to increase my prices at the same time customers don’t like that. I will tell them it’s the new rules, it’s not in my hands and most of them understand what’s happening.”

Nessy and Ms Kinczel both agreed that the new law is very challenging especially working with hot food.

Ms Kinczel said they’ve trailed the bamboo hot cup however it wasn’t solid enough with hot food and after some time it disintegrates.

Nessy said they’ve tried using paper material for take-away but the containers got soggy and don’t hold the food well.

“Good thing from my suppliers they have different kind of plastic which goes with the law but it’s very expensive,” Nessy said.

Although Ms Kinczel doesn’t agree with the new law, she said they’ve been gradually looking at alternatives anyway.

“When I went to my packaging supplier they said it’s interesting because some types of plastics are allowed and some aren’t. Personally I don’t see 100 per cent the need to ban it outright. I don’t know if it’s one size fits all solution.”

However, Ms Kinczel said with so many different plastics available, when she visited her

From 1 February 2023, problematic single-use plastics will be banned from sale or supply in Victoria. supplier, she had trouble choosing the right plastic that is allowed.

“I haven’t received any information from the council or government official about this.

It’ll be helpful for businesses to get direct correspondence from them, it’s confusing.”

The Victorian government has engaged with National Retail Association (NRA) to assist businesses and organisations understand

The ban includes plastic straw, cutlery, plates, stirrers and cotton buds.

and prepare for the upcoming ban.

NRA will visit 3000 businesses across Victoria, hold information sessions, develop resources and provide free hotline and mailbox.

City of Greater Dandenong has a list of what businesses should do to help them with the ban.

Start running down your existing stock and do not order any more banned items.

Speak to your suppliers about sustainable options they have available.

Help your staff prepare for the ban by telling them about the changes and how to explain them to your customers.

Displaying official signage can help your team explain the ban.

Download free factsheets, posters and digital materials – available in multiple languages.

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Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

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STAR JOURNAL 5

NEWS

Solar dangers in spotlight Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) is calling on Victorians to always employ a licensed electrician to install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and battery systems to avoid the threat of fires, explosions and electrocutions.

ESV has been called to a series of dangerously installed solar systems in recent months, where the work was carried out by people who weren’t qualified A-Grade electricians.

Thankfully, ESV was alerted to the noncompliant installations before an incident could occur, however it is concerning that non-qualified Victorians continue to carry out this work.

A number of installations have involved people referring to videos on the internet to help them complete the installations.

ESV Acting CEO Ian Burgwin said the installation of these systems is classified as licensed electrical work, and they must to be installed by a licensed electrician.

“Saving a few dollars by not employing a professional puts the safety of your loved ones and your property at risk and is a poor investment,” Mr Burgwin said.

“It’s great that so many Victorians are taking up solar power, but you must have them installed by a licensed professional.

“We also urge Victorians to have their solar systems serviced every two years to ensure they remain safe and operating efficiently.”

Solar PV systems must be installed by a licensed A-Grade electrician and verified by a licensed electrical inspector.

On 10 January, ESV compliance officers attended a property in Kew and found a solar installation they described as a “ticking bomb” for potential fire or electrocution. Solar panels had been left sitting on the ground with the connecting cables running through open windows.

The property owner, who was not a qualified electrician, dangerously connected solar

Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) is calling on Victorians to always employ a licensed electrician to install solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and battery systems to avoid the threat of fires, explosions and electrocutions. panels to non-compliant inverters that they plugged into powerpoints to supply the property.

This may have led to the safety switches not working when required. The inverters were freestanding on appliances and bedding, they had exposed power terminals.

In October, 2022, ESV inspected a property

in Mill Park to find 84 solar panels not properly secured to the roof as well as incorrectly installed d.c. isolators.

This threatened to harm residents and damage property. The homeowner confirmed he had installed the system himself and he didn’t hold the proper qualifications.

In September 2021, ESV inspected a property in Noble Park to find solar panels installed,

but not properly secured onto a garage.

Again, the resident who installed panels was not qualified. The cable and battery installation work was non-compliant and posed a serious safety risk of fire and explosion.

To find an accredited solar installer visit cleanenergycouncil.org.au/consumers/buying-solar/find-an-installer.

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel.

We’re also upgrading roads and freeways to reduce congestion to make your journey safer and easier.

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

Until 27 January

Flinders St to Westall

Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes Until 31 January

At McCormicks and Hall roads

South Gippsland Highway, Until 1 February Dandenong South

Between Pound Road West and Carter Way

Narre Warren-Cranbourne Until mid February Road, Cranbourne

Intersection closed at Thompsons Road

Ballarto Road, Pakenham South

30 January to 24 April

Between Healesville-Koo Wee Rup and Cardinia roads

Island Road, Pakenham South

30 January to 24 April

At Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road

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Hall Road, Skye and Carrum Downs

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Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

5664

Check before you travel at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

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NEWS

Fire risk sparks concerns

By Eleanor Wilson

Endeavour Hills resident Michael Quaremba captured the grass fire that hit Endeavour Hills in January 2009. Picture: MICHAEL QUAREMBA

Garrick Williams said the City of Casey should be held accountable for not maintaining grass if a fire were to start.

Pictures: ELEANOR WILSON

The grass surrounding Mr William’s property exceeded half a metre in some parts.

could be imminent.

“I’m surprised we haven’t seen another fire like it, anything can trigger a grassfire, even a discarded cigarette butt could start something.

“The other thing that gets to me is the burden it puts on the firies.

“Australia is prone to bushfires and the fire brigades have enough on their plates dealing with rural bushfires, but why should we have to be dealing with suburban fires when the council should be proactive and maintain the grass?”

Mr Quaremba confirmed grass surrounding his home had also recently been mowed by the council after reaching almost one metre.

ing the use of fires in the community, to prevent grassfires from occuring.

It comes as The Seasonal Bushfire Outlook for summer identified potential for increased grassfire conditions for the 2022/23 fire season, due to significant grass growth and delayed harvest activities, according to the CFA. CFA District 8 Acting Assistant Chief Fire Officer John Francis said while rainfall over recent months saturated grassland and forests, wind conditions has dried these fuels out considerably.

“Widespread rainfall in winter and spring has led to high fuel loads across the region and we can expect to see significant grassfires this season,” he said.

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In a statement, City of Casey city presentation manager Mardi Cuthbert said recent rain prevented contractors from mowing lawns in the municipality.

“Due to the significant rain that occurred in October and November 2022, there were a number of parks, reserves and roadside areas that were too wet for some of council’s contractors to safely use mowing equipment on before Christmas,” Ms Cuthbert said.

“With the recent weeks of dry weather, contractors have been working through the backlog and expect to be up-to-date by the end of January.”

The City of Casey will enter a Fire Danger Period (FDP) on Monday 30 January, restrict-

Monday 23rd to Saturday 28th January from 11am to 3pm Hey kids! Get creative, decorate and keep a fun Jungle Pencil Case with coloured markers.

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Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

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A concerned Endeavour Hills resident said grassfires surrounding his property are an accident waiting to happen, after claims the City of Casey failed to maintain grass heights in the area.

Garrick Williams said the grass around his property, near Churchill National Park, exceeded half a metre in height before it was mowed by council contractors on Friday 13 January.

He said the grass maintenance in the area had been “a bit hit and miss” in recent months, possibly due to wet weather.

“Generally they keep it at a level that’s acceptable, but where it was last week was ridiculous,” Mr Williams said.

Mr Williams said he was so concerned about the risk of a grassfire starting because of the unmowed areas, that he contacted his home insurance company to hold the council to account if a fire were to damage his property.

“We are in a bushfire prone area and with the grass at the level it [was], while I hope it doesn’t start a fire, it’s definitely a possibility.”

Fellow Endeavour Hills resident Michael Quaremba said he too was concerned about the risk of long grass proliferating the fire risk.

He said the council displayed “a complete lack of duty of care” in their maintenance of public lawns and reserves.

“As a property owner you would be fined in the thousands by the council for posing a fire risk to other properties. Endeavour Hills residents deserve better than this,” he said.

In January 2009, a car fire on Power Road in Endeavour Hills spread into Churchill National Park, threatening homes in Lysterfield South and Endeavour Hills.

Mr Quaremba, who witnessed the fire that day, said he feared a similar incident

STAR JOURNAL 7

NEWS

Richard Lim pictured with a group of event participants. 315598

Firecrackers are a traditional part of the celebrations. 315598

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Crowd enjoyed the multiple different dances.

316063

The free Springvale Lunar New Year festival was back this year with flourishing colours and activities for the whole day. 315598

Drummers were also at the event and is considered an important part of the celebrations. 315598

Lion or dragon dance is a traditional and important part of the lunar new year celebrations. 315598

An amusing day for the community as Springvale celebrated its 31st annual Lunar New Year on Sunday 15 January. 315598

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Firecrackers also went off on the day. 315598

Dragon Dance going on with locals watching in awe. 315598

There were a lot of different lion dance on the day. 315598

Springvale was brought to life with the flourishing colours. 315598

Lunar New Year festivities

By Sahar Foladi Happy Lunar New Year, the year of the Rabbit.

Thousands of people attended. 315598

SABA President, Daniel Cheng and Vincent Golf pictured with the rabbit. 315598

Pictures: GARY SISSONS

Stall were also available on the day. 315598

Entertainment performers were also there.

Local participants loved the festivals full of entertainment. 315598

Daniel Cheng, President of SABA giving a speech. 316063

The day was filled with culture and fun. 315598

315598

English music and dance were also available as well as Mexican. 315598

There were a lot of live music, traditional and international. 315598

Springvale was beaming with smiles and celebrations. 315598

The crowd enjoyed the dragon and lion dance.

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315598

Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

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STAR JOURNAL 9

NEWS

Rare battle for sport star

By Eleanor Wilson Two decades ago, Clyde’s Troy Ferguson was battling for gold on the court at the Dublin Special Olympics.

Today, the all-abilities basketball coach and Special Olympics silver medallist is fighting a much larger battle.

It was March last year when persistent back pain and vomiting led to the discovery of a tumour in the bone at the base of Troy’s spine and pelvis.

Chondrosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, seldom responds to chemotherapy or radiation therapy, meaning Mr Ferguson was rushed into surgery.

After 15 and a half hours, 21 pints of blood and 48 hours in an induced coma, he began an intensive post-surgery recovery period, putting his love for basketball on the back burner for several months.

Before the 2022 diagnosis, the grandfather of three was a hard working interstate truck driving, often clocking 60 hours a week on the job.

He was also a dedicated coach to five basketball teams for adolescents with disabilities, including Misfits Lakers and Misfits Blazers coaching at Dandenong Stadium every Friday.

When he wasn’t coaching, he relished in any opportunity to get back on the court and relive his glory days as team captain of the Australian Basketball team at the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games, where he led the team to silver medal glory.

Today, things couldn’t be more different.

Troy’s cancer impacted the S1-S2 nerves that control the bowel and bladder, which causes left leg numbness and possible weakness.

He gets by in a wheelchair and needs full time support from a carer to help him with everyday activities such as showering.

Mr Ferguson is battling a rare bone cancer that has spread from his spine to his skull.

His long-time friend and former partner Liza fills that role, but it also means the family has no income stream, aside from Centrelink contributions.

Liza said the family’s savings had been bled dry as a result of Troy’s health battle.

“We’ve just paid $2800 for a specialised bed for him, we’ve got nothing left,” she said.

“Between paying for Troy’s medication, constantly travelling to and from Melbourne for treatment, accommodation for me while Troy is in hospital, and paying rent, it’s very tight,” she said.

Liza said the family had travelled the 62-kilometre journey from the family’s Clyde home to specialist hospitals in Melbourne’s CBD too many times to count over the last year.

At one stage, Liza said she could not afford

the petrol and parking costs that came with the commute, so she was forced to travel hours by public transport to be by Troy’s side.

At the beginning of January, Troy’s fight escalated when he found out his cancer had spread to his brain and skull.

Last week, doctor’s ordered a PET scan to determine if the cancer had spread anywhere else - Troy and Liza are expected to receive those results any day now.

The prognosis for Troy is ill-defined, said Liza.

“We just don’t know at this point,” she said.

“If doctors find the cancer anywhere else, we might have to look at palliative care,” she said.

She said her biggest hope is simply for Troy to survive.

Picture: SUPPLIED The family has started a GoFundMe page to assist with the costs associated with Troy’s cancer fight.

Despite the adversity the family has faced, Troy’s outlook remains positive - and he maintains the Misfits teams are a large contributor to that.

“Coaching and being around the teams is what keeps me going...just the positivity they have and the camaraderie,” he said.

“There’s nothing else you can do in a situation like this, other than be strong and not get carried away by the negatives.

“Every morning I wake up, look down at my two feet and say ‘I’m alive to see another day’.”

Head to gofundme.com/f/5w3j4p-troyscancer-battle for more details.

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dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Chinese acrobatics were also on display to celebrate the Lunar New Year. 316261

Gracie (8 left) and Siena (8 right). 316261

Mother and daughter Ruth and Sienna with Fairy Floss. 316261

World Fare Night a big hit

By Sahar Foladi The explosion of colours and entertainment has come to an end after three nights of successful events which saw a total of 23,000 people attend.

The World Fare Night at Dandenong Market has sadly come to an end, leaving locals asking for more.

Locals have taken on social media with Max Robertson saying, “Best food, great entertainment, three weeks in a row,” while others asked for more.

“I think you should run the World Fare Thursday nights until end of Feb as its great,” Josie Lozina said. Leanne Warner agreed. “You should do them all summer,” she posted.

The last event on Thursday 19 January saw more than 8,000 people attend.

“Great night had by our crew - the kids were there til stumps cutting a rug with the entertainment,” Averil Liddicoat said.

The last event for this year had Lunar New Year theme with Chinese acrobatic performance, China dolls on stilts, LED blossom tree, red envelope giveaways and a famous double lion dance.

Dandenong Market’s general manager Ian Sumpter said everyone loved the lion dance.

“They jumped of the stage and snaked their way into Market Square for an incredible performance. It’s so popular with our community who turned out in droves to celebrate with us.”

The burst of entertainment had the locals crazy for the event and some even attended all three.

“I couldn’t wait to come again. I have been at the last two. The entertainment was great, the food was amazing – such a wonderful choice for a family night out,” Wendy Peck said.

The Zebras. 316261

Confetti was also used for Lunar new year celebrations. 316261 dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Chloe (8) amid the Colour and Light of the Night Market. 316261

Pictures: ROB CAREW

The day saw more than 8,000 people attend. 316261

Stilt walkers dressed in Lunar New Year theme.

316261

Live Music. 316261

Lunar New Year themed dress. 316261 Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

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STAR JOURNAL 11

WHAT’S ON Park 174 Lonsdale St, Dandenong.

Afghan women focus group

Sunday Jazz

Bakhtar Community Organisation is organising a women focus group to be held every two weeks.

The group has a key focus on developing and supporting Afghan women, especially the new arrivals to get connected in the community, receive relevant information to access the government services, overcome day to day challenges and integrate into Australian society. A light refreshment will also be provided.

From Sunday 4 December 2pm at 23 – 47 Gunns Road, Hallam. Details: info@bakhtar. org.au or 9703 2555 (Thursdays and Fridays).

Enjoy a relaxing Sunday afternoon filled with great food, coffee and the smooth sounds of the Jennifer Salisbury Jazz Duo performing on the Cafe Vita deck at Springvale Botanical Cemetery.

From 12pm-3pm on 29 January, 26 February, 26 March at Springvale Botanical Cemetery, 600 Princes Highway, Springvale. Details: 8558 8238 or info@cafevita.org.au

·

·

Men’s Shed Keysborough Men’s Shed is a group based on old-fashioned mateship. It provides a place where men can feel included and safe, and is a tonic for their health and wellbeing. Activities include woodwork projects, cooking for lunches, welding, maintenance around the place and assistance to the community.

It’s in the reserve outside the rear of Resurrection Primary School, 402 Corrigan Road, Keysborough (enter driveway opposite 16 Loxwood Avenue).

Fridays 9am to 2pm. Details: Michael Howlett, 0408 545 196.

Get Back to School Craft Fun Free Back to School Craft activities including library bag craft art and other essential school items, to get kids back to school ready for 2023.

All Back to School items provided free of charge.

Monday 23 January to Wednesday 25 January 2023, 11am to 2pm (daily) at Dandenong Plaza. No booking required.

·

FREE Games Night Come down to Drum Theatre for our monthly table top games night. Meet up with other players in the community, try new games, paint some minis, trade cards, all ages welcome. We’ve got space for war gamers as well. There will also be some game demos hosted by our friends at Next Level Games.

Games featured are, Pokemon TCG, D&D, Magic: The Gathering Warhammer, Free play (BYO games or try our collection) and Mini painting tables.

24 January 6:30 pm at Drum Theatre, Corner Walker Street and Lonsdale Street, Dandenong.

·

Fun for retirees Waverley Gardens Combined Probus Club is seeking new members from Dandenong North, Noble Park and Springvale North. In addition to other activities, members meet for coffee and listen to a guest speaker.

From 9.45am to noon on the last Tuesday of the month at Southern Community Centre, 27 Rupert Dr, Mulgrave. Details: Don, 9560 6046.

·

·

Conversation circle Join the Conversation Circle at Dandenong Library and make new friends whilst practising English in a friendly, relaxed and safe environment. This program is suitable for adults. Low to intermediate levels of English language skills are required.

When: Every Thursday during school terms 6-7.30pm.

Make Your Move Fun Run, Walk, Roll Make your Move this Australia Day. The Make your Move Fun Run, Walk and Roll is in its third year and is open to everyone of all ages and abilities. Come down and try out the 5km course through the park at your own pace. This is not a timed event so walk, run, stroll, push, or roll at your leisure. The run will take place on an approved track around Dandenong Park and finish near the picnic area on Pultney Street. Enjoy a fun start to Australia Day with your friends and family, then enjoy a sausage sizzle after your run.

On the day (26 January) participants will be required to check-in at the Stan Prior Stage, Dandenong Park, 174 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong at 7.45am for a short briefing.

·

Jobs Victoria Advocate

Australian Animal Protection Society- Feline Pity Party.

·

Australian Animal Protection Society- Feline Pity Party Meet n Greet day for the long-termer cats at the ‘Feline Pity Party’.

AAPS is offering waiving off the adoption fee for their senior cats only for the feline party

Food drive Hallam Friends of Red Cross and Hallam Community Learning Centre are working together on a food drive for refugees in our local community.

Anyone can make non-perishable food donations, which will be delivered to needy locals.

Donations can be dropped off Mondays to Fridays 10am-3pm at Hallam Community Learning Centre, 56 Kays Road Hallam. Details: 9703 1688 or 0455 566 570.

·

Bakhtar Community Organisation FREE music event The organisation has held a music event on 28th of January which will be held at Chandler

Theatre in Keysborough.

It is a night of music with living legend Ustad Khalil Gudaz.

Register your interest https://www.eventbrite. com.au/e/489070843057?fbclid=IwAR2FC9i lv5BlwzB8Is6yOz_zs8i_Ff4rN4FMHHPxLgUpLN85MTsnuzGFvJY From 6pm, 28 Isaac Rd 28 Isaac Road Keysborough, VIC 3173

·

LOOKING BACK

event as well as ongoing veterinary support to pity party attendees who are successful with their application.

5 February, from 11am-2pm.

·

26 Aegean Ave, Keysborough VIC 3173

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

Come along and celebrate the 2023 recipients of the Greater Dandenong Australia Day Awards, join in the family entertainment including performances by the Greater Dandenong Band.

Thursday 26 January, 11am-1pm, Dandenong

·

Drop-in employment information.

Monday from 10am–4pm at Springvale Library; Wednesday from 10am to 4pm at Dandenong Library; every Thursday fortnight at CoCO’S, 2-3/48 McCrae Street Dandenong; Tuesday and Friday from 10am to 4pm at Springvale Learning & Activities Centre.

Contact Ali Abd Ali. Phone: 0452 647 522.

Email: pathways@springvalelac.org.au

·

Free Fun Day at Noble Park Enjoy a day of free entertainment for the whole family at the Noble Park Community Fun Day 2023.

For people of all ages and abilities, this event will have something for everyone to enjoy – from live music and cultural performances, rock climbing and circus skills, to free workshops, sports, and art activities. Come along and celebrate all that Noble Park has to offer!

Enter via Corrigan Road. There will be limited parking available along Memorial Drive.

Saturday 4 March, 11am - 3pm, Noble Park Skate Park Memorial Drive, Noble Park.

·

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

100 years ago

20 years ago

25 January 1923 News in Brief Census returns, showing the religions of the people of Australia, disclose a great increase in the Church of England.

Last year about 30,000 immigrants were shipped from London to Australia and the Government desires to see this number increase to 100,000 this year As the profits of the Commonwealth Post office will this year reach nearly £1,000,000, it is urged that there is no excuse for delay in reducing postal rates.

A freshwater lake, three miles long, has been discovered in central Australia.

On New Years Day nearly 2,500 passengers travelled to Carrum, there being 47 trains each way.

During a three days race meeting at Caulfield recently, a city firm had 500 dozen glasses stolen.

20 January 2003 Lunar New Year Organisers of the Lunar New Year Festival are expecting more than 50,000 people to converge on Springvale next Sunday. The festival which celebrates the start of the Chinese New Year, has been brought forward this year by members of the Springvale Asian Business Association (SABA) to coincide with Australia Day. Chinese New Year is February 1st.

50 years ago 16 January 1973 A new aid for students A development of interest to all students in the Dandenong area was announced yester12 STAR JOURNAL

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5 years ago

People watching the Lion Dance at Springvale Lunar New Year celebrations in 2018. 176732 Picture: ROB CAREW

day. Bradshaw’s Business College has become well known in Dandenong for its commercial courses and has been in the news with the opening of its new building on the corner of Robinson and Hemmings Sts. The facilities there will provide a first rate setting for the Dandenong Education Centre, which will provide instruction and coaching in a wide

Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

range of higher school certificates and secondary subjects, together with certain specialised services which will benefit students at all levels. A spokesman for Bradshaw’s said “of particular interest is the speed-reading course which has been developed by a recognised expert in the field and comprises six sessions of three hours”.

22 January 2018 Sports a winner Sport and recreation in Springvale will benefit from a $513,000 boast. On Thursday 18 January, Keysborough MP Marin Pakula announced that City of Greater Dandenong was successful in a Community Sports Infrastructure fund application. Together with $4.9 million from the council, it will fund sport, recreation, open space and landscape features in the redeveloped Springvale Community Precinct. “The precinct will give locals the opportunity to get involved in the community and it will help cater for our growing population,” Mr Pakula said. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

NEWS

Tamils give back to nature

By Sahar Foladi A rich cultural festival was celebrated on Sunday by the Tamil and wider community of Dandenong.

Thai Pongal is a thanksgiving to nature celebrated by Tamils in India and Sri Lanka.

The festival has been celebrated as a community since 2011, first by Casey Tamil Manram and now renamed as Tamil Festival Australia, where a collective effort by multiple organisations help to create this platform to continue the Tamil heritage and engage with the wider community.

Chairperson of Tamil fest Australia, Sivasuthan Kulendrasingam said 17 organisers came together to host this event.

“We tried to make it an event that entertains any multicultural from any community. It’s a good cultural experience at the same time.

“Nature can bring other multicultural community together and same time we can share the Tamil heritage with other communities,” he said.

The Tamil community households brought their pots to make sweet rice pudding from freshly harvested rice to offer to nature as thanksgiving.

The day was full of entertainment including jumping castles, a number of rides, photo booth, cultural dance, meals and songs.

Mr Kulendrasingam sai folk artists from India will be attending and showcasing instruments and dances.

“We had a lot of food stalls, retail stalls, Auskick had a demo session at the event.”

The decoration of the festival was made to reminisce the way of a farmer’s life, as many Australian Tamils have experienced back home.

“There were decorations with banana trees and sugarcanes.

There was a hut, to symbolically note the

Lea (10) with her Kite on a glorious sunny and windy day. 316184

Tamil Ancient Performing Art forms in Australia since 2015, by Australia Tamil Arts and Culture Pictures: ROB CAREW Development Centre (ATACDC). 316184 hut was made with wood which gave the experience as whatever you see in the homeland in Sri Lanka,” Mr Kulendrasingam said.

Traditional welcome drinks were also given to locals made with milk water and Mr Kulendrasingam explained it’s the same milk water farmers’ drink.

Tamil fest Australia had applied for community grant which was recently accepted

Peter Rabbit

with $1000 grant from 2021 for the next four years to support their work in the community.

Mr Kulendrasingam said this is recognition, responsibility and a motivation for them to do better.

“We could plan the event better and make it grand. It’s a big responsibility but we have a commitment to deliver and it has motivated us to add value to this multiculturalism.”

Peacock, the Bird of “Kurinji Land” (The land of Hills and Valleys) and Tiger, the animal of “Mullai Land” (The land of Forests). 316184 Mr Kulendrasingam said the grant will help them to improve in every aspect.

“We’ll get more help by outsourcing and get help professionally, bring in good artists and improve the sound system.”

Right now the festival is organised by a group of around 80 volunteers who’ve worked hard to put everything together for the wider community to enjoy.

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Second go at life

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

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

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

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

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

NOW OPEN

sponsors of Afri-Aus Care.

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

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

The not-for-profit provides mental health

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

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

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 13

NEWS

Mason’s on a mission

By Eleanor Wilson The high cost of living and creeping interest rate hikes mean hundreds of families are already finding themselves strapped for cash ahead of the start of the school year.

While authorities scramble to find ways to assist Victorians, 11-year-old Mason is proving you don’t have to be big to make a real difference.

The Year 5 Rivercrest Christian College student recently coordinated a school fundraiser to provide 70 backpacks filled with school supplies for Community Information and Support Cranbourne’s (CISC) backpack program.

The program is one of CISC’s crisis support services, says organisation executive Leanne Petrides, which attempts to take some of the financial burden off local families with schoolaged kids by providing basic school supplies like a backpack, lunchbox and drink bottle.

“This particular program is funded by donations and philanthropy rather than government funding, so it can look different every year depending on where our funding is coming from and how much we are getting,” Ms Petrides said.

“Mason is one of those contributors [and] it makes all the difference, because the hallmark of organisations like us is it’s community helping community.

“The support of our community is what keeps us going, particularly around back to school and Christmas.”

Mason has been assisting with CISC’s support programs since 2019, often helping mum Tiffany gather support and goods for food donations and several programs.

But last month’s donation saw Mason take the reins on the crusade for the first time, organising a school project to encourage his classmates to help out with the program.

“My husband had a medical emergency in August and I just couldn’t, in my own head space, take on the backpacks as well,” Mrs Bassindale said.

“Before I knew it, Mason just said ‘I’m doing it’.

“He contacted everyone, he organised a presentation to present to his teachers to get them on board, he emailed the principal and the backpack supplier,” Mrs Bassindale said.

Putting their contribution to the program on hold wasn’t an option according to Mason, who said he “just knew we needed to give kids fresh backpacks”.

He said knowing he is helping his peers get the same opportunities as he has is what makes it all worth it.

“Getting to deliver the backpacks to CISC is lots of fun and at the end when I go home I feel amazing that I helped so many kids today,” Mason said.

The Cranbourne boy has high hopes for the future of the backpack program, creating a school wide incentive to get more bags on the backs of students in need.

“I’m hoping to get all the [school] houses involved, where they get a point for their house when they drop in a new backpack and the house with the most points wins,” he said.

“I’m hoping that nearly the entire world can help and give what they can.”

To find out more about the services CISC offers, or to donate, head to ciscranbourne.org.au

Presenting the backpacks to CISC executive Leanne Petrides was a gratifying experience, says Mason (both pictured).

Picture: FACEBOOK

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Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

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STAR JOURNAL 17

SPORT

New horizons for Demons

By Jonty Ralphsmith Southern League Division 1 club Springvale Districts have a swag of East Gippsland recruits ahead of 2023 - and a secret asset to thank.

The Dees have welcomed former Lakes Entrance captain Fraser Dostine, 24-yearold Maffra ruck Ryan Auld, Wy Yung defender Mitch ‘Percy’ Dewar, Liam Giove from Bairnsdale and former Heyfield and Lakes Entrance player Xavier Woodland.

They’ll also have Ben Brunt, son of Maffra president John, train with the club during preseason and as part of that relationship, Districts will have its preseason camp in the small East Gippy town.

The Dees don’t currently have a junior program, meaning they are entirely reliant on bringing outsiders in to fill their squad.

“We could recruit locally but we saw an opportunity and wanted to do something different, we don’t want to be like everyone else,” coach Kris Thompson said.

“These guys are easy to coach; they’re all good people.”

Woodland’s uncle, Joe Mahony, who has become a popular figure around Springvale Reserve in recent years, has taken a lead role in helping facilitate much of that player movement as recruiting manager.

Mahony grew up in Heyfield, and mutual contacts have helped attract country footballers looking to relocate for lifestyle reasons.

Giove, a big-bodied midfielder with 80 senior games under his belt, signed early in pre-

The Dees have recruited well for 2023. season and many he knew followed suit, including his housemate, Dewar.

“He’s a switched-on guy,” Thompson said of Mahony.

“He’s a bit of an ideas man, with the footy club he’s always got new ideas and he’s like a dog with a bone if he gets an idea in his head – he’ll follow through.

“Joe has a lot of connections and the footy club has a lot of connections, so depending

Picture: SUPPLIED what line of work they’re looking for when they relocate, we try and help set them up with the employer.

“Do they need a rental property? We have sponsors and friends in that game too.

“In saying that, we don’t baby them, but we support them during the relocation.

“We support them in any way you need and the other thing is, immediately they will meet (30-plus) people that live in a similar area.”

The investment in players’ personal lives and relocation puts an added importance for the Dees on the cliched phrase of getting ‘culture-enhancing characters’ through the doors.

Those recruits are in addition to a couple of other former club captains, Dylan Quirk at Narre Warren and Nick Gay from Endeavour Hills, while another recruit, Daniel Helmore, Garfield’s 2021 Best and Fairest, has come back in ripping condition.

It’s a big turnover for a list that has long had a stable core.

Players are now having Strava challenges to see who gets the guernsey numbers on ‘Hollywood Boulevard’ which have opened up for the first time in many years, with more than 600 games of experience being lost.

Last year’s skipper Todd Wills won’t be returning, likewise Mladen Josic (198 games), Ben Stacey (154), Bora Ork (65) and Tom Cooper (68).

Coach Thompson said the reinforcements will be necessary if the club is going to challenge the top five, after missing out by four games in 2022.

The forward-line looks strong with Tyrone Vickery and Matt Wetering the key posts playing alongside each other, and the midfield and defensive reinforcements have been necessary.

Auld tapping down to fellow newcomers Giove, Gay, and Helmore in the middle creates a different look, and Dostine and 2022 East Gippsland team of the year centre-half-back Dewar stabilise the defensive posts.

Stars deliver as frequent Flyers win two on the road

By Marcus Uhe A vintage performance from superstar Lauren Jackson and wire-to-wire rout of Canberra propelled the Southside Flyers to two wins last week.

Clutch defence in the fourth quarter pushed the Southside Flyers to a thrilling win over the Sydney Flames on Wednesday 18 January at Sydney’s Quaycentre, before thumping Canberra on Saturday night by 16 points.

Jackson, who revealed earlier in last week that she had been playing through the pain of a fractured foot since December, had a game-high 30 points and shot 71 per cent from two-point range as the Flyers recovered from a seven-point deficit early in the last quarter to record a 96-91 win in Sydney Southside jumped out of the blocks to record an 8-0 lead after 90 seconds, forcing Flames stand-in coach Shelley Gorman to call an early timeout.

Both teams were hell-bent on shooting the three early, with the Flyers making seven and the Flames five in the first term.

Jackson, who finished the quarter with 12 points, looked in superb touch from the get-go, both from the three-point line and in the post, where she displayed her physicality with some strong finishes over her much smaller opponents.

Opening the second quarter with a sixpoint lead, the Flyers kept feeding the hothand of their superstar, because, well, why wouldn’t you?

The margin extended to 11 points, but sloppy turnovers and poor offensive execution saw the Flames reign them back, cutting it to four at the 3.20 mark.

Jocelyn Willoughby and Tiana Mangakahia were leading the fightback for the home side, who were continuing to let the ball fly from distance.

Jackson and guard Maddison Rocci restored the 11-point late in the term, but a three from Sydney’s Vanessa Panousis on the halftime buzzer meant they only took a twopoint advantage into the long break, despite 21 from Jackson.

The chance to talk things over behind closed doors resulted in a change of approach for the Flames, who decided to double-team Jackson when she got the ball in the post.

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Flyers guard Maddison Rocci was instrumental in their two wins last week. 262053 She dug-in to her bag of tricks with a beautiful reverse layup early in the term, but the new strategy was proving effective for the Flames, who took the lead at the 3.45 mark at 66-67 as scoring began to dry-up.

Willoughby, who didn’t miss a three-point shot all night, led the fightback as Sydney took a four-point lead into the last break.

Another three early in the quarter pushed the lead to seven, the biggest margin Sydney reached all night.

With a heavy focus on Jackson still, it was time for others to step-up for the Flyers.

Kayla Thornton, who had gone quiet since scoring five of the first eight points of the game, was on the receiving end of a Jackson skip-pass out of the double team to nail a big shot from beyond the arc, as scoring became harder and harder the longer the game went.

But it was the Flyer’s defence down the stretch that proved the difference.

Between a free-throw for a technical foul against the visitors’ coaching staff at the twominute mark, and a Mangakahia jump shot at the 3.50 mark, the Flames were held scoreless.

Following that, they didn’t trouble the scorers again for three minutes, a period in

Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

which the Flyers scored nine and took the lead at 87-86 with a Thornton layup.

On a short turnaround from Friday night’s clash in Perth, where they themselves were held to just 13 points in the final term, Southside kept Sydney to a miserly 11.

Their commitment and tenacity on that end of the floor was exemplified by 18-yearold Nyadiew Puoch, who flew from the weak side to the opposite corner to block a threepointer from Sydney’s Kiera Rowe with nine seconds left, that would have cut the lead to one.

Three clutch free-throws from Sara Blicavs in the final minute pushed their lead to five, as they managed to close-out an impressive win on the road, sparking jubilant celebrations on the bench.

All Southside’s starters scored in double figures aside from Blicavs (eight), with Rocci (18 points seven assists) and Thornton (16 points eight rebounds) the other leading scorers, to go with Jackson’s 30.

It was a different story for the Flyers on Saturday, who were rarely challenged against the Capitals as they picked up their second win in a week.

A strong first-quarter team, an even

spread of contributors saw Southside take a 17-6 lead late in the opening period.

Puoch was the beneficiary of Canberra’s decision to double-team Thornton on the block, whose size and early dominance was proving too much for the bottom-placed side to handle.

Puoch connected on two threes and a layup, all from Thornton assists in the second term, as the margin ballooned to 22 at the half.

It was more of the same in the third quarter, as Rocci and Blicavs got amongst the action.

Blicavs’ free throw after a driving layup pushed the lead to 33 with two minutes remaining in the quarter, as Canberra had no answers for the offensive juggernaut from Melbourne’s south east.

Some tenacious defence from the Capitals sparked a bit of life into the contest in the final quarter, as did some cold shooting from Southside, as the margin was reduced to 12 with two minutes left.

The Flyers, who couldn’t miss at times in the first half, didn’t score in the first five minutes of the final period, and leaked points the other way as Canberra put their running shoes on, capitalising on turnovers.

A three ball from Rocci with two minutes remaining proved to be the dagger, as the Flyers closed out the 97-81 win.

The dominant performance meant Jackson, fresh off her 30-point game against Sydney, could get some valuable recovery time into her injured foot.

Jackson played just 11 minutes and didn’t see the floor in the second half after posting 11 points, three rebounds and two assists to finish a game high +22 on the box score.

Rocci (22 points, eight rebounds, seven assists) was sublime for the Flyers, as was Thornton, who nearly recorded a triple-double off the bench with 22 points, 13 rebounds and seven dimes.

The win draws them level with the Melbourne Boomers at the top of the table with 11 wins, however the Boomers have two games in-hand.

Southside’s marathon road trip will come to a close next week when they travel to Adelaide to face the Lightning on Saturday 28 January. dandenong.starcommunity.com.au

SPORT

Tension at Twohig

By Marcus Uhe Tensions threatened to boil over at Lois Twohig Reserve on Saturday as North Dandenong hosted Buckley Ridges in a DDCA Turf 1 battle between two finals contenders.

Buckley were left shaking their heads after batter Hadigallage Jayaratne was caught on the boundary, before alleging that the fielder, Ramneet Dhindsa, crossed the boundary prior to completing the catch, and throwing the ball back to another fielder in the field of play.

From their viewing position outside the sheds at North Dandenong, they believe the fielder clearly claimed a catch that should not have stood.

The umpires determined it to be a fair catch, however, and Jayaratne was dismissed for one.

Later on, during North Dandenong’s batting innings, there was another flashpoint as a Buckley fielder attempted to retrieve the ball after a boundary.

The DDCA was contacted for comment on the incident, but as they had not received a report from the umpires when questioned, they were unable to speak publicly.

The drama threatened to overshadow Nimesh Kariyawasam’s five-wicket haul, who claimed each of the Buckley Ridges’ top four batsmen as Buckley were held to 8-215 batting first.

Daniel Watson top-scored with 51 at the top of the order before he became Kariyawasam’s fourth victim, as the right-armer reduced the away side to 4-85 after a promising 70-run opening stand.

The Maroons’ chase never really got going.

Dhindsa was the only batter in the top order to make a start, with 31, before he was caught behind off Michael Davies.

Tahsinullah Sultani got off the mark with a pair of slog-sweeps for six off Sanka Dinesh, but too much fell to him as he watched partners come-and-go at the other end.

A three-wicket cameo from Watson, including a brilliant stumping from Troy Aust, put the finishing touches on an excellent all-round display from the veteran, as his side secured a 90-run win.

Springvale South was given an almighty fright by Narre Warren South, as Lions star Jeevan Mendis threatened to single-handedly steal the six points from the ladder leaders.

The returning Ryan Quirk combined with Mitch Forsyth to put on 61 for the first wicket, before Mendis teamed with quick Jawed Hussain to make a mess of the Bloods’ top order.

A score of 0-61 in the 11th over became 5-75 in the 21st, when Brayden Sharp became Mendis’ third scalp.

Sharp (two), Jordan Wyatt (one) and Jackson Sketcher (zero) all fell cheaply to the leggy, who now sits second on the leading wicket taker’s list with 17.

Tom Donnell (left) and teammate Sahan Perera were instrumental to Dandenong’s successful run chase on Sunday. 308814 Picture: ROB CAREW

Adversity fires up the Panthers

By Marcus Uhe

Matt Chasemore clips one off his pads. 316265 Blade Baxter’s heroics with the ball last week were replicated with the willow, topscoring with 42 as he and Yoshan Kumara added 62 for the seventh wicket, leaving the Lions 193 to chase.

Lacking any other significant contributions from the top order, it was that man Mendis again causing the Bloods headaches.

A brisk 63, with four sixes and five fours, showed his class against a quality Springvale South bowling attack, and at 5-132 with him still at the crease, the upset looked on.

Enter Sketcher.

The allrounder broke Mendis’ resistance, nicking-off to Paul Hill behind the stumps in the 34th over.

From there, the tail couldn’t offer much more, rolled for 154.

Returning veterans Matthew Chasemore and Leigh Booth both top-scored for their respective sides at Arch Brown Reserve as Berwick fell to Hallam Kalora Park at the Bear Cave.

Chasemore’s 40 and James Wilcock’s 31 formed the backbone of Berwick’s 8-153 batting first, with a steady flow of wickets impeding their ability to go big late.

Even when they did attempt to hit-out, tight bowling from skipper Jordan Hammond and Sayed Rihan at the death meant it was difficult to penetrate the field.

Lauchlan Gregson was the pick of the bowl-

Picture: ROB CAREW ers for the Hawks with 3-26 off seven.

A spirited display from former Tasmanian quick Andrew Perrin attempted to breathe life into the Berwick defence, but 153 was never going to be enough against a quality batting outfit in brown and gold.

Booth, who missed last week’s showdown with Springvale South, led the chase with 59 as Hawks reached the total with six wickets remaining.

In the battle of the bottom sides, it was St Mary’s who got their second win of the year with a victory at Parkmore.

Openers Duveen Kalansooriya (74) and Kasun Niranjana (83) put on 155 for the first wicket, setting Parkmore 235 to win.

Parkmore was never in the hunt, dismissed for 157 in the 35th over, replacing St Mary’s in last position.

Keppler Fernandez, who had only taken two wickets this season prior to Saturday’s game, bagged 6-48 off his 10, while Niranjana’s 3-25 were his best figures for the year.

Springvale South remain the team to beat, followed by Buckley Ridges in second and Hallam in third.

St Mary’s’ win has them back in the mix for the fourth finals spot, jostling with North Dandenong and Narre South, while Berwick and Parkmore round-out seventh and eighth on the table, respectively.

Zara destined for Launching Pad take off Highly talented youngster Zara Marnie was outstanding on her Sandown Park debut on Thursday night and now has the $530,000 Launching Pad series firmly on her agenda.

In what was just her fourth career start she speared to the lead and set hot sectionals (5.10, 18.67) with an overall time of 29.48.

While she’s already been super impressive to date, her trainer Des Douch remains optimistic that her best is yet to come.

“She trialled here a couple of weeks ago, it was her first look and she flew. I think she’s still got improvement in her,” said Douch postrace.

Douch bred Zara Marnie and sold her to close friends the Trail Craft Syndicate.

He said the whole litter looks to be talented but she is the one who stands out.

“Graham Glass pre-trained the litter and he was pretty quick to tell me that they all go pretty well, especially the girl with the white feet – which is her,” Douch explained.

Douch’s attention quickly turned to the Launching Pad series which begins on Thursday March 23. With eligibility being one to six wins - and no more than 30 starts - the plandandenong.starcommunity.com.au

Promising bitch Zara Marnie has the Launching Pad in her sights after an impressive Sandown Picture: SUPPLIED debut. 316448 ning begins given Zara Marnie has three wins under her belt this far out from the series.

“I’m not too worried about that situation, she’s got three races left to win and I’m in no rush,” Douch said.

It was a similar case last year when Wow

She’s Fast had five wins to her name at this point, she was held back to maintain eligibility and went on to be undefeated through the series.

Slots for the Launching Pad are on sale from Monday 23 January at 10am.

Dandenong Cricket Club shook-off a significant week at Shepley Oval by winning their two-day game at Greenvale over the weekend.

A disappointing season for the Panthers in Premier Cricket saw head coach Warren Ayres fall on his sword, with immediate effect.

Ayres tendered his resignation on Friday afternoon, 20 January, ahead of the Panthers’ trip to the Northern side of the city.

In a statement on Friday night, the club paid tribute to Ayres’ service, describing him as an “outstanding leader” across two terms at Dandenong.

“The Dandenong Cricket Club would like to thank Warren Ayres, who has this afternoon stood down as head coach, effective immediately,” the club said.

“In his first tenure he led the club to its first XI premiership, and later guided the first XI in the 20/21 season to a Grand Final.

“Warren has been a strong mentor and provided a wealth of knowledge during the transitional phase at the club.

“In the past two years he has taken a strong interest in the future development, through our Pattinson Academy and Dowling Shield programs.”

The leading run scorer in Victorian Premier Cricket history, Ayres joined Dandenong ahead of the 2002/03 season as captain coach, guiding the club to its first premiership in 2006/07.

He returned as head coach in 2020, leading the Panthers to an unlikely run to the Grand Final in 2020-21 despite finishing the regular season seventh on the table, but was unable to recapture the magic of that first season back in the head coaching role in later years.

Until the win over Greenvale, Dandenong were anchored to the bottom of the table in Premier Cricket, having also missed finals in 2021-22.

Ayres was contacted but chose not to comment on the matter.

Assistant coach Glenn Marinic filled the breach, leading the side to a victory in their first two-day game in years.

Bowling first, they kept Greenvale to 8-291 from 93 overs.

All-rounder Matthew Wilson took 3-75, including two in the 43rd over, while right arm quick Braden Taeuber and spinner Sahan Perera grabbed two wickets each.

Openers Brett Forsyth (75) and Tom Donnell (93) put on 164 for the first wicket, before Donnell was joined at the crease by Perera.

Despite watching Donnell, Joshua Slater, Max Marinic and Wilson all depart in a short space of time, he remained calm to steer the chase home on 76 not out in the 84th over.

The result lifts them off the bottom of the table to 16th, ahead of Greenvale and Kingston Hawthorn.

Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

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STAR JOURNAL 19

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20 STAR JOURNAL

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Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

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