Dandenong Star Journal - 22nd April 2025

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Casey’s growing spectacle

With buzzing suburban communities, beautiful scenery and coastal towns just a short drive away, what’s not to love about the City of Casey?

While Casey residents are likely to be aware of the many perks and benefits of living in the region, this feature showcases the best aspects of life in Casey. From the great education options and local businesses to leisure services and retail sectors, Casey really has it all.

An estimated 429,000 people call the City of Casey home in 2025. It is the most populous council area in the state, and that number is forecast to hit 614,000 in 2046 (which is 40,000 more than previously forecast).

More than half of this population growth will occur in Clyde and Clyde North.

In 2022, 45 per cent of Casey households were couples with children – compared to 33 per cent in greater Melbourne.

The region has a young demographic – with a median age of just 34 years old and 5540 babies born last year.

The council area is one of the most diverse in Australia with 42 per cent of residents born overseas and spanning more than 150 nationalities. The top three overseas countries of birth are India, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan.

More than three quarters of residents have at least one parent born overseas or were born overseas themselves.

There are more than 100 faiths observed in Casey – the most common being Catholic, Islam and Hindu.

According to state statistics, Casey supports more than 86,600 jobs – topped by 13,719 in health care and social assistance.

Other main areas of employment are construction at 12,323, retail trade at 11,905 and education and training at 11,330.

The region’s Gross Regional Production was estimated at more than $16 billion - – about 3.5 per cent of Victoria’s GRP.

Construction was the most productive industry, generating $6.75 billion in output.

GARDENS AND OUTDOOR DESTINATIONS

The City of Casey has an abundance of parks, playgrounds and open spaces to enjoy.

Whether you visit the 1001 Steps at Bayview Park in Narre Warren South, Wilson Botanic Park in Berwick, Akoonah Park Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens in Cranbourne or the Hallam Valley Trail, you’ll have a myriad of options to choose from. From family friendly to physical activities, the City of Casey has all you need.

DOVETON POOL IN THE PARK

The Pool in the Park in Doveton is the only outdoor pool in the City of Casey.

The pool has served the community for over 50 years as a popular spot for families and friends to cool off during summer.

After its opening in 1968, the Pool in the Park is easily the oldest surviving pool in the City of Casey with the 50m pool set for a staged rebuild by the council from 2024-25.

A $14.7 million upgrade has been jointly funded by Casey and the Federal Government.

Stage 1 will include rebuilding the outdoor 50-metre pool and splash pad facilities only and shutting down the slides and toddler pools.

Stages 2 and 3 may include a beach sand pit, plaza, canopy tree planting, upgraded splash pad, playground, outdoor fitness equipment, barbecue, toilets and a shallow, child-accessible pool.

ENDEAVOUR HILLS SKATE PARK

Boasting a 4.4-star review on Google, the Endeav-

SPORT

our Hills Skatepark has become a popular spot for skateboarders, scooters, and BMXers.

The modern skatepark was first opened to the public in 2020 as part of the Endeavour Hills Community Precinct Project which features more than 865 square metres of terrain with various bowls for skateboards, bicycles and scooters, a new playground with terraced landscaping and forest walking.

With the playground and the skatepark in close proximity, the park overall is inclusive for children of all ages and families to enjoy.

EDUCATION

The City of Casey has a network of great education options that include Catholic schools such as St Catherine’s Primary School in Berwick, Mary MacKillop Primary School in Narre Warren and St Paul Apostle North and South Primary Schools in Endeavour Hills.

The City of Casey also has a range of government schools on offer to parents with the catchment area.

These include James Cook Primary School,

Oatlands Primary School, Berwick Lodge Primary School and Cranbourne Park Primary School.

Other schools include St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar, Casey Grammar School, St Francis Xavier College Berwick, Beaconhills Christian College, Heritage College, Hampton Park Secondary College and Alkira Secondary College.

The City of Casey is also fortunate to have Dandenong Valley SDS,a school dedicated to students aged from pre school to 18 years with intellectual disabilities. The purpose-built school caters for every one’s needs, with various play areas including a bike track, sensory rooms and outdoor spaces, multipurpose rooms, paramed offices,a hydrotherapy room and a range of therapists on hand.

Endeavour Hills Specialist School opened in 2022. It caters for students from early years, middle years and senior years, a dry lab for media, drama and physical activities and a wet lab for art, science, home-craft and technology.

The state-of-the-art facility also has a gymnasium, full-size outdoor play court and soccer pitch.

The City of Casey has long been a hub of sporting activity in Melbourne’s southeast.

Casey Fields is the region’s premier sports and recreation precinct, home to Melbourne City Football Club and the Melbourne Demons AFL/ AFLW teams. It also regularly hosts cricket, rugby, athletics and BMX events televised nationally. Boasting more than 30 fields, tracks and courts across its 87 hectares, there is also a dedicated train station in the works for Casey Fields as a part of the Clyde Rail extension.

Last year, an $18.7 million state-of-the-art soccer academy opened at the precinct. There are also plans for a further mini-stadium with a Women’s Centre of Excellence for soccer, rugby league and rugby union.

In its 2025-’26 draft budget, Casey proposes large-scale works at Springleaf Recreation Reserve, an AFL, cricket and netball facility in Clyde North. It also commits to a new pavilion at Syd Pargeter Reserve and upgrades for pavilions

Tooradin, Strathaird Reserve, Max

serve and Grices Road Recreation

at

Pawsey Re-

Reserve.

Hallam Primary student Salimah with healthy foods prepared in a partnership with the Stephanie Alexander Foundation and VicHealth. (Stewart Chambers: 449743)

Duty captain Dylan surveys the soon-to-be upgraded 50-metre pool at Doveton. (Stewart Chambers: 448344)

Mauritian group dancers Bridgitte Nigle, Hyllen David, Rose Martin, Jacqueline Robert, and Chantal Felix. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 461407)

Thomas Mitchell Primary School students Petra, Anthony, Yuvitha and Krista at an ANZAC Day ceremony at Endeavour Hills. (Gary Sissons: 400850)

Ethan and Princess Grace join in a Harmony Day parade at Southern Cross Primary School. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 465511)

Doveton Show volunteers Ann Keeys and Tamanna Mohammadi. (Gary Sissons: 431626)

Casey Xin Jiang Chinese Group dancers at a Harmony Day event in Doveton. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 461407)

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

HAVE

YOUR SAY on our Council Plan 2025 - 2029, updated Long-Term Community Vision 2035, draft Budget 2025/26 and other key documents

The City of Casey is proud to present our draft Council Plan 2025 - 2029, updated Long-Term Community Vision 2035, proposed Budget 2025/26 and other key documents for community feedback.

Last year, more than 4,600 community members shared their feedback through the 2024 Shape Your City engagement program, which helped us review and update the Community Vision 2031, to ensure it continues to represent the aspirations of the community.

Feedback collected from this also helped us develop several key documents.

A Endeavour Hills footballer kicks clear versus Doveton. (Rob Carew: 421605)

Andrei speeds through the air at Doveton Show. (Gary Sissons: 431626)

Magician Luigi Zucchini entertains a young crowd at Celebrate Doveton Festival. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 435638)

Hampton Park and Doveton footballers clash in SFNL action. (Gary Sissons: 469873) Mahrira enjoying soup at Hallam Primary School. (Stewart Chambers: 449743)

Mathias meets a reptile at Celebrate Doveton festival. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 435638)

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY Together, we celebrate

By Violet Li

Local charity Bakhtar Community Organisation

partnered with the City of Casey to celebrate the Nowruz Festival in Hallam on Saturday 5 April.

Founder and chief executive Bassir Qadiri said it was more than the celebration of Nowruz, the Persian New Year.

“We celebrated Eid and an early celebration of Easter as well,” he said.

“It is just to bring all these celebrations in one event so that we can bring all nationalities together and celebrate common values.

“We had a very diverse performance, dances, and activities so that everybody could enjoy.”

The festival brought together 16 communities, including Pakistan, India, and Turkey, and attracted more than 3000 attendants.

Bright side

Did you hear the one about the funeral celebrant who does skit-comedy?

You might bump into a chirpy Neil Marriott in a Hallam park during the day, either filming for his YouTube channel or coming up with an idea for his ‘Comedy Club’ stage act.

At 64, the versatile Hampton Park car-seller has led hundreds of funeral services. But now he is pitching an idea for a slapstick movie set at a funeral business.

There’s a wild scene in which a ‘deceased’ does a “Lazarus” and is soon fitted up in a suit to drive the hearse.

“Some might get a bit offended. I don’t want to offend anyone - I think people like a bit of a laugh.”

TAX RETURNS

* Individual & Business Returns

Melanie Kiremitciyan (Stage Name Melanie Khanum).

Jawed Hussain and Amir Nayimi. (Gary Sissons: 469893)

Family-fun activity.

Hallam FRV was at the event. L-R: Rob Clarke, Sahil, Abobakan, Halima and Alec Draffin.

Jawed Niazi with a kite he just bought.

Crowd.

Neil Marriott. (Stewart Chambers: 471304)

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Dual citizens of the year

2025 Casey Community Awards winners were announced and this year, two residents took out the top honour of Citizen of the Year.

Anthony Hanna and Antonia Arfaras were named joint Citizens of the Year.

City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen congratulated all the winners and nominees for their hard work and nomination.

“These community members provide invaluable contributions to our city, a place that I am proud to call home,” he said.

The annual awards have celebrated community contributions for over two decades and recognise the outstanding individuals and groups in the community in eight categories.

2025 Casey Community Award recipients:

• 2025 Casey Citizen of the Year (joint) – Anthony Hanna

Anthony’s generosity and dedication shine through his volunteer work at Vinnies across three locations. His deep commitment to community safety and education is evident in his roles with Neighbourhood Watch Casey, Merinda Park Learning Centre, and Jen Community Housing.

• 2025 Casey Citizen of the Year (joint) – Antonia Arfaras

Antonia has been a dedicated volunteer in Casey for over 30 years, making a profound impact on stroke awareness and advocacy. Her tireless efforts earned her the 2024 National Stroke Foundation Volunteer of the Year, and she continues to inspire through her leadership with the Friends of Wilson Botanic Park.

• 2025 Casey Senior of the Year – Joseph Anthony Swindle

Uncle Joe is passionate about his community, always striving to make everyone feel happy, included and supported in their cultural journey. Whether he is helping mob trace their bloodlines, lending an ear or helping at the Casey Aboriginal

Gathering Place, he is always there with a warm smile.

• 2025 Casey Young Citizen of the Year – Matthew James Young

Matthew’s dedication to sports and charity has made a powerful impact, raising nearly $20K for kids’ cancer research. His commitment to giving back extends to blood donations and inspiring excellence in his workplace.

• 2025 Casey Equity and Inclusion Award – Ren Tumath Ren has been an influential volunteer in Casey for over 30 years, focusing on supporting the LGB-

the fullest.

TIQA+ community and founding Casey Cardinia Pride Inc. Their advocacy work extends to disability rights, serving on the Casey Disability Advisory Group Committee, where they help shape policies for inclusion and equality.

• 2025 Casey Woman of the Year – Chanchal Kumavat

Chanchal is a vibrant community leader whose work has uplifted thousands in Casey. From supporting victims of domestic violence through Saathi MAA Association to organising charity theatre and entrepreneur markets, her dedication to social change has earned her multiple awards for volunteerism and empowerment.

• 2025 Casey Community Group of the Year –Peninsula Community Legal Centre Inc. Peninsula Community Legal Centre Inc. (PCLC) is a non-profit organisation offering free legal services to vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals in Melbourne’s outer southeast. Since 1977, PCLC has advocated for social justice through legal service delivery, education, and law reform. It aims to ensure equal access to legal resources and improve the lives of its community members.

• 2025 Casey Environment and Sustainability Champion Award – Fiona Smale Fiona has shown exceptional commitment to environmental conservation and the protection of koalas. Partnering with the Koala Corridor Project, Fiona has planted 3,000 trees to restore critical koala habitat, demonstrating her dedication to preserving Australia’s iconic species and their environment.

• 2025 Lindsay King Art Award – Bridie Clark Bridie is a dedicated volunteer with BATS Theatre Company, contributing her expertise as a choreographer and director, including the production of Hunchback. With nearly 30 years in the performing arts, she founded an inclusive, non-profit program in Cranbourne East. Bridie believes in making the performing arts accessible to all and ensuring that individuals can experience the arts without the financial burden.

Uniting Vic Tas’s School Attendance Support Program (SASP) Team Leader. Jess is a social worker with over 10 years experience in supporting children and families.

Dr Jodi Richardson- Dr. Jodi Richardson is a renowned speaker, author, and wellbeing expert, specialising in empowering students, educators, parents, and school leaders to manage anxiety, reduce stress, and enhance wellbeing.

• Highly Commended - Community Group of the Year Award Transit Soup Kitchen and Food Support in Narre Warren supports over 1,500 individuals and families weekly by providing fresh food, groceries, and free three-course meals. It serves as a space of connection and hope for those facing food insecurity, homelessness, or unemployment. Through the efforts of 100+ volunteers, Transit creates a compassionate, inclusive environment where people find community and dignity.

Our expert panel will answer any of your questions.

The group shot of the 2025 Casey Community Awards winners: daughter of Antonia Arfaras (accepting the award on behalf of Antonia), Matthew Young, Chanchal Kumavat, Sokha Um, Jackie Galloway, Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen, Ren Tumath, Deputy Mayor Cr Melinda Ambros, Joseph Anthony Swindle, Michelle Pinxt, Lisa Milkovic, Bridie Clark and Anthony Hanna. (Supplied)

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Lead the way

At Hampton Park Secondary College, leadership is more than just a title—it’s a commitment to growth, inclusion, and positive change. Our 2025 College Captains — Chandrima Guduru, Zenani Onekon, Minhaj Hussain, and Montanna McGuinness — are proud examples of the values that define our school community.

For Chandrima, Hampton Park is a place that nurtures not only academic success but personal development. “HPSC teaches us how to accept change, be aspirational, and build meaningful connections,” she shares. This year, she and her fellow leaders played a key role in developing a dedicated Year 12 study space, offering students a supportive environment to revise, connect, and thrive together.

Inspired by the school’s strong emphasis on student voice, Chandrima values the opportunity to turn student-led ideas into real solutions.

Zenani highlights the approachability of staff as one of the school’s greatest strengths. “There are no walls between teachers and students,” she says. “You can go to them for help with anything.” As a student leader, she works closely with Mr. Antil and the Respectful Relationships team, helping educate peers on key issues affecting inclusivity. Initiatives like International Women’s Day activities are just one example of how she helps create awareness and celebrate diversity.

Montanna reflects on HPSC’s inclusive and empowering culture. “Students are genuinely encouraged to reach their full potential,” she explains. With caring teachers and abundant opportunities for growth, Montanna found herself inspired by past leaders and driven to give back. Her aspirations of becoming a nurse have been shaped by the supportive environment, where leadership, communication, and compassion are part of everyday learning.

For Minhaj, the school’s culture of innovation and support has been deeply motivating. “The

staff and facilities here have inspired me countless times to push my limits,” he says. As a student leader, he sees himself as part of the bridge between student voice and action. His leadership is rooted in the belief that change is possible —and necessary—when it comes from those directly affected by it. His goal is to make a positive impact on the world, no matter how big or small.

Montanna reflects on HPSC’s inclusive and empowering culture. “Students are genuinely encouraged to reach their full potential,” she explains. With caring teachers and abundant opportunities for growth, Montanna found herself inspired by past leaders and driven to give back. Her aspirations of becoming a nurse have been shaped by the supportive environment, where leadership, communication, and compassion are part of everyday learning.

Together, these student leaders are a powerful force in shaping a school culture that values every voice, celebrates diversity, and embraces change. Their experiences are a testament to the opportunities that Hampton Park Secondary College provides—and to the bright futures that lie ahead.

“Highest senior school results of local government schools” - Wayne Haworth.

Every Principal is proud of their school community, and I am no exception. The achievement of many of our students is simply remarkable.

Over the past few years, we have implemented many structures, processes and strategies to engage, challenge and enhance learning outcomes. This combined with high expectations has resulted in the college recently achieving its highest senior school results of all local secondary colleges. This is a testament to the hard work of our students, and to the outstanding work of our dedicated teaching and support staff.

Wayne Haworth, Principal, Hampton Park Secondary College

Inclusion for queer youth

By Ethan Benedicto

In light of the recent announcement of the $10,000 HEY Grant for the City of Casey, local LGBTQIA+ youth leaders have shown their eagerness and support for the development.

Likewise, Casey’s manager of child youth and family, Bronwyn Saffron, said that the city is more than pleased to have received the grant, something that will “enable our Youth Services team to host a Pride In School forum”.

“Through the forum, for local primary and secondary school teachers, we hope to empower and educate teachers so they can help shape a more inclusive school culture.”

At the same time, Saffron said that this directly benefits the LGBTIQA+ youth by improving their sense of belonging, safety and well-being in their learning environments.

Austin Parker, one of the many youth leaders in Narre Warren Headspace, said that since he was young, he has always known that he was agender.

This means that he knew that he held some internal feeling that he was neither male nor female, but just Austin.

“I’ve always known, but now I understand what agender means, it makes more sense that I don’t see gender, it’s kind of irrelevant to me,” he said.

Having gone to a Christian high school, it was difficult for Austin to fully express himself without any constraints, and while he recalled that his friends were great and that there were instances of mockery from time to time, it ultimately came down to his environment.

“I went to a Christian high school, which was interesting and for the most part, the other students were fine, but I wasn’t able to really express myself in that environment,” Austin said.

It was only really after secondary education that he was able to explore himself, and his myriad of options, eventually finding his home at Headspace.

Sam Franks, a barbering student at TAFE and part of Headspace’s youth advisory committee, said that the funding is a “big step for the area, it’s really needed”.

“Growing up as queer, I went to a Catholic school, and I was the first to rally put myself out there and say, hey look, this is who I am, and this is who I want to be,” he said.

“That got a lot of backlash, I copped a lot of slack, but I think it’s changing now.

“The dynamic is starting to shift, but when I was growing up, it was a lot harder.”

Sam said that his journey was difficult, recalling that his parents have struggled to accept the change but have been forward with telling him to be authentic and be himself.

His confidence eventually grew, especially with the support of younger peers who “came up to me and pretty much praised me for just existing because they felt comfortable showing up for themselves”.

“That was my biggest motivator, other people, and then it fell into doing it for myself,”

that more

and acceptance is always welcome. (Ethan

he said.

Carmen Parker, Austin’s mum, said that as parents, she and her husband have always supported him, adding that it was more the external factors that posed as a serious challenge.

For both mother and son, the creation of queer spaces, physical spaces, is essential, considering that it is somewhere that those from the LGBTQIA+ community can be seen.

“It’s someplace where we can be seen, as opposed to just announcing it and then just feeling like we have no support,” Austin said.

“Schools and organisations might say they support queerness, but they don’t always do that, they’re sometimes just rainbow-washing and they want the political and social clout that comes with it.”

According to Sam, support from the everyday people can come in little gestures, and does not need to be grand in the sense of grants or from organisations and or local government.

It could be as simple as researching the topic, asking for people’s pronouns, wearing a rainbow lanyard when available during work, and so on.

“A lot of young queer people are scared, they don’t know what’s up in the air, it could be our rights up there,” Sam said.

“But for local governments like Casey to put a foot down and support us, saying that they want to support queer people and celebrate them, just means we have an extra blanket in a tough time - it’s a great feeling.”

Both Austin and Sam are keen to see more development in acceptance and inclusion in their home city.

With small and assured steps, they are confident that more can and will be done to achieve a safe space for all.

Sam Franks, a member of Headspace’s Youth Advisory Committee, is in full support of the grant, saying

inclusion

Benedicto: 469596)

Meet Hampton Park Secondary College’s captains.

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Unlocking your potential

Ready to boost your independence, learn new skills, and make lasting friendships? At The Bridge, we are more than just a not-for-profit organisation; we’re your dedicated partner in creating a connected and inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

As your trusted local NDIS provider in Casey, we offer a comprehensive range of services specifically designed to empower individuals with disabilities, whether at home, within the community, or in the workplace.

Explore our services:

• Day Services with engaging group activities tailored to your interests

• Exciting getaways and community recreation, from Friday night socials to weekend adventures

• Personalised support at home and in the community

• Transition to work programs to help you secure and maintain employment

• Supported employment opportunities in our dynamic warehouses and mobile cleaning and gardening crews

• Comprehensive Disability Employment Services for training and job placement

Choosing The Bridge means embarking on a personalised journey aligned with your NDIS goals. You can access a range of services at the same time and move between services as your goals develop.

Need guidance on the best service for you? Our friendly team is ready to assist! Reach out today at 1800 274 343 or email us at enquiries@ thebridgeinc.org.au and start your journey with us! Unlock your potential with The Bridge.

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

Under new ownership

Stihl Shop Berwick Village is a one-stop-shop for all outdoor power equipment needs. As a Stihl elite dealer, they stock most available Stihl products.

They stock Cox Ride on mowers, Push and self-Propelled mowers, generators, spare parts,

as well as all oils and fuels you could need. As well as stocking the best brands, they offer a full range of service and repair options for most makes and models; from domestic to commercial, they can look after it all. With multiple Stihl gold-trained technicians among

the staff we can look after all of your outdoor equipment.

The newly renovated showroom will impress, with plenty of stock on hand to suit everyone’s needs from the smallest home gardens to professional users. Stihl Shop Berwick Village is situ-

ated at Unit 3, 21-23 Enterprise Ave, Berwick, 3806.

Opening hours Monday to Friday 8.30am5.30pm and Saturday 8.30am-1pm. For enquiries, call 9707 2180 or email sales@stihlshopberwickvillage.com.au

Reserve shining bright

The sports lighting upgrade on pitch one at Waratah Reserve in Eummemring is now complete, with the City of Casey’s mayor, Stefan Koomen, alongside Gabrielle Williams MP, celebrating the finale.

On Saturday, 12 April, Koomen and Williams were joined by representatives from Doveton Soccer Club to mark the opening, as well as the first football game under the new lights in five years.

“This upgrade is a game-changer for our local sporting community,” Koomen said.

“By reusing existing infrastructure and adding powerful new LED lighting, we’ve not only improved visibility dramatically but also created a safer, more accessible space for players of all ages to train and play.”

As part of the upgrade works, the existing 20-metre pole was reused, and three additional poles were installed, each equipped with

two light fittings.

Also included were 100 lux LED lights around the main pitch, lighting additional avenues for junior development programs and teams.

Each LED light delivers 259,000 lumens, a significant improvement compared to the old, 2000-watt metal halide light fixtures.

Williams said that the Doveton Soccer Club is “an integral part of community sport and social life, and the community deserves quality facilities they can use all year round”.

“This lighting upgrade means more people will have the chance to emulate their soccer heroes and join in the fun here at Waratah Reserve.”

The lighting upgrade on the pitch is a jointly funded partnership between Casey and the Victorian Government through its Local Sports Infrastructure Fund.

Daniel Eerden, Stihl Shop Berwick Village.

FOCUS ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

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Action on local issues

The southeast had a greater percent of Legalise Cannabis voters at the last state election than anywhere else in Victoria – and in 2022 SE voters elected Rachel Payne to represent them in the Victorian Parliament.

Rachel has played a key role in:

• Securing a law change that saves medicinal cannabis patients from automatic loss of license if they test positive to at a roadside driving test “I know tradies, pensioners and cancer patients who use medicinal cannabis to manage chronic pain and other health conditions,” Rachel said. “Thanks to Legalise Cannabis you can

now appear before a Magistrate, who now has the power to spare you from automatic loss of license if you have a current script and were unimpaired behind the wheel.”

• Convincing a parliamentary committee to review Victoria’s cannabis laws

“A new cross-party report recommended that Victoria follows the ACT which decriminalised possession of small amounts of cannabis in 2020. There was no increased uptake or demand on health services,” Rachel said. “The Allan government should respond by September. If Victoria decriminalises small amounts, it means police

will no longer waste time enforcing a personal possession ban and can focus on stopping assaults, thefts and domestic violence.”

• Campaigning for better bus services in southeastern Melbourne “Buses need to be frequent and take people to where they want to go,” Rachel said. “There are public transport deserts in the southeast which stops parents getting to the part-time jobs, retirees travelling to medical appointments and young people playing sport.”

• Demanding more mental health supports in the southeast

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“Places like Cranbourne have few services for people facing mental health challenges, especially young people,” Rachel said. “I will continue to campaign until adequate care arrives.”

• Imploring the Allan government to stop the Hampton Park waste transport station

“I have spoken on Hampton Park multiple times in Parliament. I stand with the community,” she said. “A mega waste sorting facility does not belong in a suburb.”

Authorised by Rachel Payne MP, 384a Nepean Highway, Chelsea VIC 3196

Authorised by Rachel Payne MP, 384a Nepean Highway, Chelsea VIC 3196

Legalise Cannabis MPs Rachel Payne (southeast metro) and David Ettershank (western metro) secured a law change that spares medicinal cannabis patients from automatic loss of license if they test positive at a roadside drug test.

Legalise Cannabis MP Rachel Payne was elected to the Victorian Parliament in 2022 to represent the southeast after securing 5.15 per cent of the Upper House electorate vote.

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A pathway for every child

Welcome to St Francis Xavier College – a vibrant Catholic community committed to nurturing the growth and potential of every young person in our care. Serving the Parishes of Berwick, Iona-Maryknoll, Kooweerup, Narre Warren and Pakenham, and welcoming families from across the municipalities of Cardinia and Casey, our reach is broad – and our mission is clear.

Inspired by the wisdom of St Irenaeus, who taught that “the glory of God is a per-

son fully formed,“ we strive to provide an educational journey that shapes the whole person – intellectually, spiritually, emotionally and socially.

At St Francis Xavier College, we partner with families to offer a comprehensive school experience grounded in Gospel values and modelled on Christ’s love. Our differentiated curriculum and wide-ranging programs are designed to create a learning pathway suited to each student. Whether through academic chal-

lenge, creative exploration, hands-on learning, or leadership development, every student is encouraged to discover and grow their unique strengths.

We are a college that believes in people –investing in exceptional staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and a school culture built on trust, care and mutual respect. Our students thrive in an environment where high expectations are matched by deep support, where relationships matter, and where success is measured not only

in academic results, but in character and contribution.

Through diligence and courage, we believe every child can exceed their own expectations.

At St Francis Xavier College, we aim to prepare young people to step confidently into the world – skilled, compassionate, resilient and ready to make a difference.

There truly is a pathway for every child at St Francis Xavier College – and we welcome you to be part of it.

A pathway for every child – St Francis Xavier College, Beaconsfield.

ON … SHOWCASING CASEY

A Super Club right here...

Anytime Fitness in Clyde North is the suburb’s very first Super Club, providing world-class training facilities, state-of-the-art equipment and a supportive community all in one.

This multi-million dollar fitout incorporates multiple training floors, award-winning design, and state-of-the-art facilities including a huge cardio theatre, Hammer Strength strength zone, and fat-burning functional training zones.

Members will enjoy free group fitness classes, local Elite Coaches, and access to use the Evolt Body Composition Scanner to take fitness tracking to the next level. With 24/7 access and convenient parking, it’s never been easier to fit in your workout.

Of course, it’s not all about the equipment and classes — it’s about creating an environment where everybody feels supported, empowered, and part of something greater.

The staff at Anytime Fitness in Clyde North are committed to making a difference to their members and have been successful in creating a genuine sense of community to the area.

Stop by and see for yourself! Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to take things to the next level, Anytime Fitness Clyde North offers something for everyone.

As part of the global Anytime Fitness network, members enjoy access to over 5,000 clubs worldwide—a perfect bonus for travellers or those always on the go. Locally owned and operated, this new Super Club is more than a gym - it’s a vibrant, supportive hub designed to inspire healthy living in Clyde North and surrounding areas.

Drop by and check out this fabulous gym in your neighborhood. It’s fitness, community, and convenience—all under the one roof.

St.Germain Central – Home to Clyde North’s Super Club.

Empowering Lives Inspiring Futures

Future in doubt

A long-running service to support Aboriginal health and wellbeing in Dandenong has closed one of its buildings, with its future in doubt. Dandenong and Districts Aborigines Co-Operative Limited has abandoned its delapidated 50-year-old building in Stud Road while still running its adjoining health clinic on Carroll Avenue. It reports faults such as rain leaking through the windows and cracked walls, a jammed front door, a roof with holes, exposed asbestos and the building structure shifting on stumps.

Chief executive Jenny Ockwell says their team has worked in “substandard” conditions for a decade but the organisation’s community program facility has finally succumbed.

“It’s been substandard for a very long time and its unfortunate where it’s got to the point that we had exposed asbestos, so we had to get out.”

The facility used to run community programs to drive social engagement and wellbeing - monthly community lunches, and a weekly elders group and mums and bubs group.

DDACL has now moved those services to Cranbourne. This fractures its long-running “one stop shop” with health care provided by Bunurong Aboriginal Health Service.

Prior to this, the building was a “hive of activity”, says clinical services manager Tarni Cooper a Wurundjeri woman who has been with the organisation for 20 years.

“To run groups now we have to hire a facility we don’t have our space and we can’t put artworks up or posters up as it’s not ours.

“Aboriginal community-controlled health organisations is about a holistic approach. So having staff re-locate from here is difficult because they are offsite and there’s travel times.

“It has definitely changed a lot.”

A recent report revealed more than half of Victoria’s Aboriginal community-controlled health organisation’s buildings were in need of replacement or substantial repairs in the next 15 years. More on the story, turn to page 6

Cracks in the facade at Dandenong and District Aborigines Cooperative’s former community facility. (Gary Sissons: 472496)

Clinical services manager Tarni Cooper says the building used to be a hive of activity. (472496)

The community services facility at Stud Road, Dandenong. (472496)

$1.5m for job hub

By Sahar Foladi

A re-elected Albanese government will establish a $1.5 million Dandenong Employment Hub announced today by the Treasurer Jim Chalmers.

Securing funds for the hub was on the Greater Dandenong Council’s wish list amongst others such as an upgrade to the Dandenong station.

Mr Chalmers said the municipality is well equipped for an employment hub to meet the rising demands of the wider community.

“We will only make this employment hub work if everybody does their bit. We’re coming to the table with one and a half million dollars.

“We’ve got great local members. We’ve got great local council, great community leaders as well.

“We have everything we need to make this not just a job creating community, but also the type of community where people can grasp those opportunities, provide for their loved ones and get ahead.

“This is really the reason for being the Australian Labor Party, is to generate opportunities and make it easier for people to grasp them.”

Greater Dandenong is known as one of the

state’s economic powerhouses with 1400 manufacturing businesses and more than 21,000 jobs but unemployment in the region remains high.

It’s known to have above national average of youth unemployment by 22 per cent as last reported by the Star Journal in August 2022.

The diverse multicultural community is facing an above-national-average unemployment rate of 6.7 per cent compared to a national average of 4 per cent in February 2025 according to Austra-

lian Bureau of Statistics Labour Force.

City of Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti says the hub will be housed inside the Dandenong Civic Centre on 225 Lonsdale Street to fill the vacant Bendigo Bank space.

“Dandenong is job rich. This unemployment hub will bring the job seekers to the job providers together.

“That’s why we think we need the employment hub to connect youth to job providers and this is the start and hopefully we can drive the percentage down.”

The incumbent Bruce MP Julian Hill said the hub will bridge the gap between the jobs available and increase number of unemployment whilst he acknowledged council’s “incredible deep rich relationships” with local businesses

“What that says is there’s a failure in the labour market to actually match people who want to work with the jobs that are available.

“You (Council) know your community and you’re incredibly well placed to provide that matching service, the dating agent, if you like, to connect people with jobs, bring in Chisholm TAFE and the training to give people the skills that they need.”

Urgent care clinics $8.4 million boost

By Sahar Foladi

A re-elected Labor Government has promised $8.4 million funding to boost the capacity of Urgent Care Clinics, including in the south east.

However, an independent review has revealed a lack of data to assess how much Labor’s $750 million spent on 87 urgent care clinics has eased pressure off public hospital emergency departments.

The Dandenong-based care clinic, Greens Medical Group, is one of 12 that will share the funding boost, with specific allocations to be determined based on the need and discussions with local providers.

Discussions with providers will determine the best way to boost its capacity, whether through additional staff or extending its hours. Labor has also pledged to open another 50 urgent care clinics.

The incumbent Bruce MP Julian Hill calls it a “fantastic new feature” to the nation’s healthcare system.

“Fully bulk billed, with extended hours seven days a week, they’ve helped thousands in our community avoid long waits in Emergency Departments.”

Since the Dandenong Medicare Urgent Care Clinic opened in February 2024 it’s considered to be the busiest in the country and has treated more than 11,000 patients, averaging around 60 people each day. Greens Medical Group clinic’s business manager Riekie Jooste has previously told Star Journal more than 40 per cent of patients attend the clinic at night and on weekends outside the business hours.

“What makes us so busy is we also run a GP service, so many of the non-life-threatening cases can be seen by our GPs.”

One in four patients are under 15 years. It was originally opened to address the increased emergency-department wait times for patients non-urgent and non-life-threatening symptoms such as chest pain, cuts, burns, fractured or broken

bones. Despite the lack of data found in the review, Attorney-General and incumbent Isaacs MP Mark Dreyfus said “anecdotally” they have seen the clinics’ impact.

“Yes, there will be more analysis done but its already clear anecdotally just how good they are.

“I’ve heard directly from the Dandenong and Frankston hospital how much they value the urgent care clinics because less pressing cases, that are urgent but don’t necessarily need the hospital, can go to these urgent care clinics.”

As reported previously by the Star Journal ED wait times have improved significantly from ninetieth-percentile wait times dropping from a diabolical 122 minutes in January-March 2022 to 20 minutes in April-June 2024. The Coalition has committed to supporting existing urgent care clinics, and to open several new ones including Healesville. The Liberal Party was contacted for comment on the review.

‘Park-barrelling’ ALP, Libs spend big

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

The federal election ‘park’-barrelling in Greater Dandenong continues, with major parties committing millions to upgrade sports grounds.

In the past two weeks, Labor and Liberal have committed to $2 million-plus to sports and parks projects – all of them among Greater Dandenong Council’s long wishlist.

Both parties committed to funding for better lights for Fotheringham Reserve ($350,000 from Liberal, $400,000 from the ALP) and upgrades

at Greaves Reserve

($964,000 Liberal, $350,000 ALP). The Greaves Reserve project comprises upgraded cricket wickets and nets, new coaches boxes and a multi-purpose court and fitness area.

It’s unclear whether this improves the plight of Dandenong West Cricket Club juniors – who trek 1-kilometre return between nets and its pavilion at Greaves Reserve.

Greater Dandenong Council recently stated it would cost $330,000 to relocate the nets – a “medium priority” project due between 2029-’32.

The Liberal Party also promised $700,000 to

upgrade a playground at Rowley Allan Reserve in Keysborough – bringing the party’s ‘park-barrelling’ to about $2 million in Greater Dandenong.

Labor has committed to more than $2.7 million, including $900,000 for female-inclusive changerooms and shade structure at Ross Reserve athletics track in Noble Park.

The week before, the ALP announced $1.44 million for upgrades of Dandenong Park playground, Lois Twohig Reserve, Tirhatuan Park, WJ Turner Reserve lights, Police Paddocks Reserve as well as Greaves Reserve.

Funding pledges

By Sahar Foladi

As the Labor and Liberal parties desperately try to win votes in the South-East, they have promised funding to a swathe of community groups, sports and parks, health services and festivals. This is a list of the pledges so far in the Greater Dandenong region, including parts of the Bruce, Hotham and Isaacs electorates.

LABOR

COMMUNITY GROUPS

• $407,000 for Wellsprings for Women’s outdoor activities hub and community garden

• $225,000 over three years for Dandenong Ramadan Night Market

• $75,000 over three years for the popular Nowruz festival in Dandenong Park

• $1.25 million for Southern Migrant & Refugee Centre new home

• $600,000 to Centre for Multicultural Youth (CMY) feasibility study for a youth hub potentially in Dandenong

• $1.5 million for establishment of Dandenong Employment Hub

• $225,000 to restore the Australian Ukrainians community centre, Noble Park

• $120,000 to social enterprise SisterWorks’ employment pathways program and manufacturing hub.

SPORTS

• $1 million for upgraded Sydney Pargeter pavilion in Endeavour Hills

• $400,000 for upgraded Sydney Pargeter pavilion cricket practice facilities

• $400,000 for renewed sports field lighting at Fotheringham Reserve Dandenong.

• -$350,000 upgrades at Greaves Reserve Dandenong.

• $900,000 Ross Reserve amenities upgrade, construction of female-inclusive changerooms, shade structure for athletic track

• $1.1 million for Dandenong Park playground, Lois Twohig Reserve paths, Tirhatuan Park sensory trail, DDA upgrades at Police Paddocks Reserve

HEALTH

• Boost the capacity of 12 Urgent Care Clinics including Dandenong.

• Upgrade Headspace centre dubbed Headspace Plus in Dandenong

LIBERAL COMMUNITY GROUPS

• $6.5 million to Afghan Islamic Centre and Omar Farooq Mosque (AICOM) for new community centre

• $1.25 million for Manna4Life at-riskyouth program.

SPORTS

• $350,000 to upgrade Fotheringham Reserve lights for evening training and matches.

• $964,000 upgrades at Greaves Reserve Dandenong

• $700,000 to upgrade a playground at Rowley Allan Reserve in Keysborough

Labor MPs Julian Hill, Jim Chalmers and Mark Dreyfus announce $1.5 million towards a Dandenong Employment Hub. (Gary Sissons)

Bullying complaint lodged

By Sahar Foladi

Greens councillor and federal candidate Rhonda Garad has filed a complaint to WorkSafe against Greater Dandenong Council and its chief executive.

Garad, who is on leave from council duties while running in the Bruce electorate against Labor MP Julian Hill, says the complaint is for the “systemic bullying they have allowed Cr Lana Formoso to do”.

The complaint comes after the Monday 14 April council meeting where Formoso moved the motion to grant Garad’s leave of absence.

She raised questions if Garad has discontinued her councillor allowance during this leave and whether she did the same for the Mulgrave state by-election in 2023.

Chief executive Jacqui Weatherill said Garad was “silent” on her intentions to be paid during this federal election period.

She confirmed the previous mayor Eden Foster took leave without pay in 2023 but took “it on notice” on Garad’s situation in 2023.

Garad has told Star Journal she didn’t take her councillor allowance during the 2023 campaign and was waiting on advice from the council on the new guidelines whether she can take her allowance or not this election.

“I’m doing whatever is in the policy”.

She’s also seeking a “public apology” over the matter, and would speak to a defamation lawyer.

She would also seek for video of the debate to be either deleted or affixed with a comment that “Cr Formoso is making claims that aren’t substaintiated”.

“The council is responsible for protecting my health and safety,” Garad says.

“This is the third meeting where she’s been allowed to go on a personal rant.”

She says Formoso’s “completely unsubstantiated” comments was a form of “public humiliation and bullying” that was “enabled” by the council.

“The enabling of this by the mayor and the CEO and the governance advisor is outrageous and is having a severe impact on my life.”

She says that people on the street are directing “complete and utter lies” used by Formoso such as “moonlighting as a councillor”, that she’s “not performing my role as a councillor” and that she’s using council resources while campaigning for the election.

“Everything that I have done is within our council’s policy.

“Cr Formoso is always saying that bullying of female councillors is unacceptable and here she is leading the charge.

“This continual vilification for me having the temerity to stand for public office - which is my democratic right.”

Under the Local Government Act 2020, councillors are entitled to their allowance even during leave unless they decide otherwise.

ALP-member councillor Formoso stands by her statements saying nothing that was said was untrue and she “simply” asked the questions that every ratepayer has the right to know and understand.

“I’m really interested to understand the basis of Cr Garad’s defamation claim.

“Cr Garad is constantly asserting that public debate is absolutely crucial and necessary in our democratic society, but unfortunately that only applies for her narrative.”

She questioned whether the council would be required to fund her lawyers.

She also called out Garad’s presence as a Greens candidate in the gallery during public question time, holding a climate-change placard with Greater Dandenong Environment Group members.

On the personal choice of councillors keeping their allowance she says, “Everyone would agree

this does not fit the pub test or any test really.

“I find it quite shocking that Cr Garad is the first one to jump up and down in the chambers about ratepayers money being ethically and morally spent at their best interest, transparency and public trust.”

The clashes between the two councillors are nothing new as seen previously in the council chambers.

Previously at a council meeting on 10 February Cr Formoso criticised Garad and implored the council to have its own policy on on councillors “who continually take time off their council roles to campaign for state and federal elections” to safeguard transparency and conflict of interest.

Lifestyle Riverfield Clubhouse precinct

ALP-councillor Lana Formoso stands by her statements claiming nothing she has said is untrue. (Stewart Chambers: 435813)

Rhonda Garad, Greens candidate for Bruce, has filed a WorkSafe complaint, claiming she has been subject to ‘public humiliation and bullying’. (432339)

NEWS

ABC’s forum in Berwick

By Ethan Benedicto

Discussion on the housing crisis and the cost-ofliving pressures hit Berwick’s streets once more, this time with Parliament’s officials and experts weighing in on it.

Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s weekly Q+A segment was held in Beaconhills College, where over a hundred residents packed into the school’s theatre to watch the show come to life.

Leading the panel was ABC’s and the show’s long-time host, Patricia Karvelas, accompanied by key speakers: Labor’s housing minister Clare O’Neil and the Coalition’s Michael Sukkar, in their first debate for this election.

They were also joined by independent MP Zalia Steggal, Melbourne’s lord deputy mayor Roshena Campbell and Australia Institute executive director Richard Denniss.

Speaking to Star News after the panel, Karvelas said that when it comes to facilitating an even platform for political debates, it all came down to “experience, hard work and confidence to back yourself”.

“This is a contest of ideas, don’t think of it as a performance physically or in language.

“I’m confident because I’m across the issues, I read everything, I’m comfortable because I know so much,” she said.

As both major parties commit policies on different platforms, it has become much easier for all forms of information, both accurate and inaccurate, to proliferate in all levels of media.

To Karvelas, it all comes down to obligation, and that broadcasters such as herself are “obligated to only talking facts”.

“If we make mistakes, we apologise, own it, correct the record, because people can make mistakes, humans are falliable.

“I’ve made mistakes, but owning it very quickly and also just fact-checking everything - if one person tells you something, don’t necessarily believe it; verify it, call other people,” she said.

Politics in focus for Q+A

By Philip Salama-West

Berwick’s Beaconhills College was the setting on Monday for the filming of a politically charged election special of ABC’s Q+A.

In an auditorium packed with local residents from Berwick and the surrounding areas, panellists were faced with a number of the struggles currently facing Australians.

From a renter facing the prospect of never being able to enter the property market, a homeowner struggling with multiple jobs to pay the mortgage, a pensioner lamenting that increases to their pension are failing to keep up with the cost of living, and a small business owner stressing over the strains of staying afloat.

The show’s panel consisted of the Minister for Housing and Homelessness Clare O’Neil, Shadow Minister for Social Services, NDIS, Housing and Homelessness Michael Sukkar, Melbourne Deputy Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell, the MP for Warringah Zali Stegall, and Executive Director for the Australia Institute Richard Denniss.

O’Neil and Sukkar were eager to emphasise the newly announced housing policies of their parties, both focused on opening up the housing market to prospective first home buyers.

Panellists faced a widespread lack of faith

that either party would be able to effectively combat the effects of the housing crisis.

One audience member stated to O’Neil and Sukkar that “billions and billions of dollars are being invested in fixing a housing crisis that I think most Australians probably agree neither of you are going to actually fix”.

When asked by host Patricia Karvelas, the majority of the audience indicated that they agreed.

Meanwhile, audience members voiced concern over low wage growth amidst the cost of living crisis, with one member of the audience noting that while his costs for essentials like insurance had increased by over 30 per cent since the last election, his wages had only increased by seven per cent.

“It doesn’t take a mathematical genius or an economist to see that I’ve gone backwards in real terms.”

Another hotly contested issue was government spending, with Sukkar claiming that Labor is heavily overspending, while Richard Deniss suggested that budgetary woes could be alleviated by increasing taxes on the mining, oil and natural gas industries.

Monday’s show displays just how important the issues of cost of living, wage growth and housing affordability are to local residents in the 2025 election.

In summary, the panel’s discussion went for just over an hour, with key audience members already hand-picked with crucial questions about the aforementioned topics.

Some were local residents, while some had, as usual, made their way from other parts of Melbourne to state their case.

Facilitating a balanced debate that hinged on timing, Karvelas allowed both O’Neil and Sukkar to trade verbal blows but have ample time for in-

dependent and expert views to even the playing field.

As the major parties played their cards, from Labor’s 5 per cent deposit on new homes to the Liberals’ super-backed incentive, Denniss called for bigger taxes on large corporations, Steggal weighed in on plausiblity, while Campbell provided boots-on-the-ground insight to resident impacts.

To Karvelas, fairness can sometimes be “difficult”.

“You have to be sometimes cruel to be kind, you have to be prepared to interrupt and stop people if you think that not everyone’s getting an equal say.

“You have to be prepared to challenge people; but fairness and making sure that the democratic project of everyone having their say and voters have the right to hear them has to be at the centre.”

She said that a lot of thinking happens while words are being spoken, especially when policies, numbers and statistics are involved.

“I’m like, has Michael answered that question? Has he had a fair go? Have they? If I feel like he has, then I move on,” Karvelas said.

“It’s a conscious process for me, is this a reflection of where the debate is? Have I made sure they addressed it?

“Sometimes politicians, they want to talk nonstop, so you have to be prepared to say to them, hey, I’m going to move on now, it’s not just their show, it’s a forum for everyone.”

Climate alliance dumped

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A local green group has labelled Greater Dandenong Council as a “laughing stock” after the council voted to depart a regional climate-change coalition.

The council will end its 12-year membership of South East Councils Climate Change Alliance (SECCCA) from 1 July, citing rising costs and limited benefits and relevance.

Greater Dandenong will instead invest the $128,249 saved this year - and more than $400,000 over three years - into its own climate change “priorities”.

They include transitioning from gas to renewable energy, installing solar panels, planting more trees and supporting residents and businesses to adapt to climate change challenges.

During the council vote on 14 April, Greater Dandenong Environment Group members protested with placards in the public gallery.

“We don’t want Greater Dandenong Council to be seen as a council that’s not pulling its weight on regional climate action,” GDEG president Isabelle Nash said. “The reputation of Greater Dandenong Council is at stake.”

According to the group, the “outrageous” withdrawal would save the equivalent of a council officer’s wage – or 0.04 per cent of the council’s budget.

“The City of Greater Dandenong is home to some of the most vulnerable people in Melbourne when it comes to the effects of climate change like heatwaves,” member Aloma Davis said.

“The council’s alternative use of the money, which amounts to planting trees that they should be funding to be planted anyway, is laughable.”

SECCCA comprises eight councils in the South East, with Greater Dandenong joining the alliance in 2013. In 2024, the alliance recruited a new chief executive with further staffing changes – which Greater Dandenong described as a “step in the right direction”.

However, the council baulked at a $75,000 annual ‘project fee’ - $300,000 over four years - to help fund nine SECCCA projects.

Only two of the projects - business energy support and financing flood resilient infrastructure - would benefit Greater Dandenong, according to a council officer’s report.

The ‘non-beneficial’ SECCCA projects include climate risk, a residential resilience ratings pilot for bushfires, a small business climate adaptation toolkit, carbon sink, EV/hydrogen heavy-duty truck, asset vulnerability assessment and a BriefEzy tool. Over the next three years, Greater Dandenong will save $408,249 in SECCCA membership and project fees as well as staff time. It would financially challenge SECCCA as a result, the report stated.

Councillor Lana Formoso, who represents Greater Dandenong at SECCCA, said the withdrawal “really upsets me” but was “confident” it was the right move. In opposition, councillor Phillip Danh said being part of a broader regional alliance could save money in the long term and achieve greater things than a council on its own.

From left to right: independent MP Zalia Steggal, Melbourne’s lord deputy mayor Roshena Campbell, ABC’s Patricia Karvelas, housing minister Clare O’Neil, shadow minister for housing Michael Sukkar and Australia Institute executive director Richard Denniss. (ABC News)

Name drops, heat rises

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

In a sudden about-face, Greater Dandenong councillors have voted to temporarily cease the Afghan Bazaar marketing term for a popular retail precinct in Thomas Street Dandenong.

The reversal sparked fury from sections of the Afghan-Australian community in the council meeting’s public gallery on 14 April.

According to name-change proponents, the word ‘Afghan’ symbolises oppression to the Hazara community.

On the other hand, opponents say the word symbolises everyone who comes from Afghanistan.

Khalid Amiri, who confronted the council meeting in public question time, posted that the decision was a “betrayal of the legacy of the thousands of Afghan cameleers”.

“How does the council justify removing a name that honours such a significant contribution to this country?”

However a Hazara group – which has pushed to rename the precinct to Little Bamiyan – rejoiced and waved flags in Harmony Square.

“This is what happens when our community shows up—with strength, clarity, and truth,” lead proponent Barat Ali Batoor posted.

“This is a win for dignity, for accuracy, and for everyone who believes in representation.”

Both ALP and the Greens accuse each other of politicizing the Afghan Bazaar issue.

Last month, a Labor majority of councillors voted down a similar motion from Greens councillor and federal election candidate Rhonda Garad.

The ALP councillors’ about-turn last week fueled speculation that the party was moving to placate the populous Hazara voting community.

Bruce Labor MP Julian Hill said the naming was a matter for the local council but “like other locals I am also worried about the division that has caused”.

She says Hill should have brought the parties together to settle on a common name for the precinct, such as Afghanistan Bazaar or Kabul Bazaar.

On social media, Garad recently moved to clarify her support for the Hazara cause.

She said she supported the “democratic right” of both sides of the Afghan Bazaar debate to put up petitions - “because they are our democratic processes and people have a right to put that up”.

“I don’t support any rhetoric that all Pashtun and Hazara are terrorists … any of that inflammatory language.

“It disturbs me to think that people think that I’m supporting violence of any kind. I absolutely abhor violence and would never support it in any form.”

Meanwhile, Liberal candidate Zahid Safi says he is being targeted for his Afghan background. He has been criticized for co-authoring a parliamentary-inquiry submission that was said to minimize the ‘genocide’ of Hazara people.

His colleague and La Trobe MP Jason Wood said that Safi had not written the offending section.

“There’s no way that he or anyone at the Liberal party has the same view (as the report on downplaying Hazara genocide),” Wood said.

“The bigger picture is that the Liberal Party has been very supportive of all Afghans regardless of backgrounds.”

“All so-called leaders should set an example for younger Australians as to how to bring people together, and not divide communities.”

Hill said the “overwhelming feedback” from most people was that the precinct should “simply remain named Thomas Street”.

“Unlike the Liberals and the Greens, I will never seek to exploit differences in our community in chase for votes.

“If there is a marketing term for Thomas Street then it should be something that attracts people to shop and eat.”

Garad – who has strongly sided with Little Bamiyan proponents – congratulated the council for its “sensitivity” in removing the Afghan Bazaar name.

Meanwhile the Liberal Party stated it was “very proud to support a candidate whose family fled Afghanistan because of the Taliban, and has chosen to make Australia his home because of the freedom and lifestyle our country offers”.

“It is unfortunate that Zahid has been the victim of prejudice because of his Afghan background, but Zahid is not defined by his background, and will continue to campaign to represent all the residents of Bruce, regardless of their background.”

Little Bamiyan supporters celebrate a council decision to drop the marketing term Afghan Bazaar for the traders precinct in Thomas Street, Dandenong. (Facebook)

Time to pay respects

By Ava Cashmore

In anticipation of ANZAC Day, the Noble Park RSL hosted a service to commemorate Australians and New Zealanders who served the nations.

Close to 200 people attended the service on 17 April, regardless of it being a Thursday morning.

Even though it was school holidays, there were representatives from Carwatha College, Silverton Primary and Chandler Park Primary.

Mason and Dominic from Carwatha College read “Tribute to ANZAC Day” and “On This Hallowed Day”.

Entertainer, Col Perkins, performed “The Spirit of ANZACS” on the guitar and harmonica. He also sang the National Anthem.

The Catafalque Party in attendance consisted of Army Cadets from 310ACU Dandenong.

Attorney General, Mark Drayfoss, was also in attendance, along with several other VIPs including Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti, and state MPs Lee Tarlamis and Gabrielle Williams.

Ray McCarthy, the president of the Noble Park-based Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia and vice President of Noble Park RSL, said that ANZAC Day is “the pinnacle of our year”.

Having served Australia’s military for two years, McCarthy has incredible reason to be so passionate in commemoration.

“My family’s military history goes back over 100 years. My grandfather served in the First World War on the Western Front. His brother was killed at Gallipoli,” he said.

McCarthy’s father served in New Guinea and the Philippines in World War II, and his uncles were also part of the military.

“The main thing to us is to get the word out and try to keep the ANZAC spirit alive, especially with the younger generation,” he said.

Victoria Police Acting Senior Sergeant, Shane Wright, and other officers from Springvale were also invited to lay a wreath at the ceremony.

“Local RSL is very much a big part of the community and being able to come here today and show our support and respect for the day was really, really appreciated,” said Sergeant Wright.

Over 24 wreaths were laid in the wreath laying ceremony, and bugler, John Mansfield performed the Last Post and Reveille.

An ANZAC Day service will be held for school students at the Endeavour Hills memorial on 24 April, 10am.

There will also be a dawn service at the Pillars of Freedom memorial in Palm Plaza, off Clow Street, Dandenong on 25 April 6am-7am, and a march and service at 10.45am also at the Pillars of Freedom.

It will be followed by a sausage sizzle, drinks and 2pm two-up at the RSL on Clow Street.

First Nations service closes crumbling hub

By Sahar Foladi

A long-running service to support Aboriginal health and wellbeing in Dandenong has closed one of its buildings, with its future in doubt.

Rain leaking through the windows and cracked walls, a jammed front door, a roof with holes, exposed asbestos and the building structure shifting on stumps.

These are just some of the things staff and community members had to deal with at the Dandenong and Districts Aborigines Co-Operative Limited before they decided to evacuate the Stud Rd building for their own health and safety in August.

Their adjoining clinical building remains open but in a tired state.

Chief executive Jenny Ockwell says their team has worked in “substandard” conditions for a decade but the organisation’s community program facility has finally succumbed.

“It’s been substandard for a very long time and its unfortunate where it’s got to the point that we had exposed asbestos, so we had to get out.

“We had a super-clean done, and a month later they redid it to ensure there’s no immediate risk.”

The facility used to run community programs to drive social engagement and wellbeing - monthly community lunches, and a weekly elders group and mums and bubs group.

The DDACL is a “one stop shop” with an adjoining clinical building to provide health care through their Bunurong Aboriginal Health Service.

The Dandenong facility is one of the 200 Aboriginal health and wellbeing facilities across the state, according to a recent report co-authored by Infrastructure Victoria and The Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO).

temporary. We can’t afford to stay there, it’s chewing up our funding.

“We desperately need to get our own site, wherever that is, somewhere we can say is ours, with an outdoor area.”

The “fracture in location” is causing great concern for the DDACL.

“It’s an ongoing challenge to ensure that our internal referral pathways remain relevant,” Ms Ockwell says.

“Now that we’re fractured and we’re not in the same environment, we’re doing what mainstream does - electronic referral.

“It’s challenging maintaining the high-quality services we provide.”

The organisation had spent $22,000 secured through funding on the repair of its roof, cracked walls, wall paint, floor and so much more only for everything to crack again “almost immediately” as they realised the stumps were sinking.

“It’s something we needed for well over 20 years. Some community members are excited, others are quite sentimental about it and feel we should knock it down and rebuild it. But the site has no capacity for the growth that we need to be to be sustainable.”

Prior to this, the building was a “hive of activity”, says clinical services manager Tarni Cooper a Wurundjeri woman who has been with the organisation for 20 years.

“To run groups now we have to hire a facility we don’t have our space and we can’t put artworks up or posters up as it’s not ours.

“Aboriginal community-controlled health organisations is about a holistic approach. So having staff re-locate from here is difficult because they are offsite and there’s travel times.

“It has definitely changed a lot.”

The clinical building which houses GPs and staff to support the health of the Aboriginal community members is open but also suffering due to lack of available space, lack of staff kitchen and car park spaces.

The report has revealed more than half of those buildings are already at the end of their economic life with 82 per cent of the community-controlled health organisations need to be replaced or require substantial repairs within the next 15 years.

The buildings assessed are 40 years old on average with 17 of them more than 100 years old.

The oldest building is 174 years old.

DDACL was established on Stud Rd in 1975 however Ms Ockwell says even then it was an old building estimating it to be established in the early 1950’s-60’s.

Since April, 13 staff members are either working from home or from their six-monthleased office space in Cranbourne with some outreach work.

The temporary accommodation contract can be extended for another six months however, community members can’t be seen in the new space as it’s a corporate space.

Service delivery is down 20 per cent to 70 per cent as a result.

Considering the population of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in the City of Casey, Ms Ockwell says their service delivery will only increase in the new space. However, the main issue remains the lack of community area which is crucial in the Aboriginal culture.

“The beauty of Dandenong was we had a barbeque, we had an outdoors sitting area, community room. We don’t have that anymore because it’s not our building, it’s a private office block.

“The accommodation in Cranbourne is

They have opted to transform storage rooms into GP offices, leased two container spaces as a kitchen and the other as a consultation room for people with Covid.

The containers are parked on the ‘Reserved’ car park spaces in front of the building, sacrificing the little parking spots they have.

The report has found that $150 million is needed to replace the facilities in high-risk, unsafe buildings with failing foundations, walls or roofs across the state.

Another $30 million of funding is needed each year over the next 5 years for ACCOs to urgently repair existing infrastructure.

Despite the tiresome state of the buildings, the Aboriginal community-controlled organisation models have proven to deliver quality outcomes, early interventions with reduction in pressure on other healthcare services.

VACCHO chief executive Dr Jill Gallagher AO said the great outcome by ACCOs is because it’s run by and for their communities.

“But most of our funding supports service delivery, not infrastructure. This creates an overwhelming administration and maintenance burden for our ACCOs.”

Most importantly, the report has found Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are more likely to engage with healthcare services provided by ACCOs (73 per cent) than mainstream GP services (60 per cent).

ACCO’s impact is 50 per cent greater than if the same services were delivered through a mainstream health services.

A former outdoors BBQ area where 60-70 community members would gather at Dandenong. (Gary Sissons: 472496)

Ex-Commando Captain Donald Bergman, pictured left, at the wreath laying ceremony in Noble Park. (Ava Cashmore)

Big money for mental health

By Sahar Foladi

Dandenong will receive an upgraded Headspace centre dubbed Headspace Plus, if Labor is re-elected at this Federal election.

As part of the $1 billion investment in free mental health backed by Medicare at this election announcement, Dandenong is the only location in the Bruce seat part of the upgrade list.

Totalling to three locations in the south east, Frankston is also part of the Headspace centre upgrade and Cranbourne is set for a completely new Medicare Mental Health Centre.

Chief executive officer of Headspace, Jason Trethowan welcomes the announcement.

“The commitments respond to the increasing and innovative ways for headspace to provide support to more young people when experiencing a difficult time especially when it comes to their mental health challenges”.

In their election promise, Labor will open or upgrade more than 100 mental health centres across the nation over the four years, $225m for 31 new and upgraded Medicare Mental Health Centres, and more than $200 million for 58 new, upgraded or expanded headspace services.

Also pledged was $500m for 20 Youth Specialist Care Centres, hubs designed for young people with complex mental health care needs and $90m to fund 1200 training places for mental health professionals and peer workers.

Dr Kathryn Daley, senior lecturer in Youth Work and Youth Studies at RMIT University, has a background as a practitioner who was also trained in psychology and social science.

Both Dr Daley and Greens candidate for Bruce, Rhonda Garad welcome the announcement for the sector also acknowledging the enormous, allied health shortages.

Both mentioned the socio-economic circumstances and social issues driving the poor mental health state of young people.

Dr Daley is concerned about funds always going into expanding the existing services.

She is glad Headspace is on the list for upgrades but worries about the other young cohorts that Headspace does not service.

“The people who don’t fit in the headspace program for whatever reason, there doesn’t appear to be funding for alternative services particularly for young people.

“So Headspace is increasingly becoming the only youth mental health service and it’s tricky because we need alternate models because young people are diverse.”

She says one of the biggest gap is the lack of funding for people with a constellation of significant mental health issues paired with homelessness, disengagement from families or cognitive

impairment that may have impacted their ability to participate in schools.

“You can’t expect one big service that is primarily for mainstream youth, to be able to specialise in these groups.

“But those young people have nowhere to go, they aren’t the sort of people where you do 12week of cognitive behavioural therapy as an intervention because there’s a bunch of other needs.

“They need specialist outreach services that can imbed drug and alcohol as well and that remains missing from the government funding.”

High levels of anxiety and depression are the major mental health issues amongst adult youth currently being self-managed. Some may have

a mental health care plan where the sessions are quickly used up.

Ms Garad shared her daughter had a rough time last year and being a middle-class family, she could only secure an online consultation worth $500 upfront and $300 for every consultation afterwards, that too on the mental health care plan scheme.

“It’s a struggle to find a health care provider and even when you do, you’re on a long waiting list and having to pay hundreds of dollars.

“It’s one thing to fund a couple of centres in the South East which is great, but that’s not addressing mental health in any significant way.”

Existing social issues such as cost of living pressures, loneliness, environmental issues, employment issues are all factors inflaming the deterioration of youth mental health, she says.

Young people are also more disconnected than ever, noting her third-year university students’ quality of interaction suffering while they work more than 30-hours a week.

“They’re not making friends. They know each other but not in the way my students used to.

“Historically final year students would all know each other by third year, and I still have to do ice breakers because there’s people in the class that have never met.

“Their lives are so busy and so full trying to get ahead and getting a job that I wasn’t surprised at all that they’re actually lonely.

“Loneliness is a huge issue for people’s mental health.”

This election, the Liberal Party has pledged $400 million with a focus on youth mental health and the “missing middle” who have more-thanmild mental illnesses that don’t require hospitalisation - such as eating disorders, personality disorders and early psychosis.

The Coalition would also reinstate 20 Medicare-subsidised psychologist sessions a year for patients, as well as expand Headspace centres. Bruce Liberal candidate Zahid Safi did not respond.

Senior lecturer Dr Kathryn Daley is concerned for young people with mental illness who don’t fit the Headspace model.

Unique nomadic adventure

SCROLLING Facebook in the middle of the night, I came across the profile of a lady with an eagle on her arm. She was mounted on a horse. The post said, “If you can’t stop thinking about something, it’s a sign from the universe you should do it…”

The following morning, I woke and wondered if I had imagined the horse-riding-eagle-lady. I found her. “We still have a place or two available on The Great Noman Expedition starting First of July in Mongolia. -Come ride with us from the bottom to the top by camel, horse, yak and reindeer…”

No way, it was seriously 19 June! I hadn’t ridden a horse in about four years.

My mum lives in Melbourne, I called her. “Only you would be crazy enough to ride a reindeer from China to Russia right about now, Amelia!” Laughing, I reassured her, “It’s ok mum, the Russians are looking the other way!”

As a last-minute wild card entry, I joined the expedition.

Ten ladies from across the world met in Ulaanbaatar, ready for the trip of a life time! Three Aussies, five Kiwis, a Canadian and Yank. I know it sounds like the start of a joke, but these women had the grit to ride over 1200kms across the desert, the steppe country, mountains, valleys and up into the snow where we stayed in a tee-pee near the Russian border.

Ten Mongolian men were hired to put up our ‘ger’, cook our food, catch and saddle our animals and help us across the countryside. Every 3040kms we would change animals, the dozen or so horses we were riding would be herded back to their family and we would ride on.

Over three weeks, we camped in beautiful places and stayed with nomadic families. At the end of another 100km day in the saddle, we rolled out our little mattresses in their circular tents tied up with horse hair and lined with animal skins and blankets for insulation. Stacked in like sardines, us riders were warm and cosy in homes that are full of love.

The families showed us their best hospitality, blessed us with their home-made vodka and shared their meat and milk products. They entertained us with displays of horse racing, archery and a group of local dancers performed a concert for us is in the desert.

They shared their double clotted cream on bread, rhubarb jam and milk tea. They sacrificed goats for us and we were blessed in their country. Our translator, relayed back to us their words of kindness, “We wish you gold and silver and we hope you live until you are one hundred years old,” followed by the jokes and laughter, they added, “Not even Mongolians are crazy enough to ride four different types of animals across our country!”

We survived saddle sores, sprains, strains, squat toilets and minimal showers for three weeks on the trip of a lifetime.

We have a new appreciation for the stamina and striking beauty of everything Mongolian.

The gentleness of their Bactrian two humped camels, their spectacular yaks which were like riding big hairy cows who would shy every time they caught a glimpse of their rider on their back. The horses were fast paced and phenomenal endurance animals, trotting and cantering non-stop for 2.5 to 3 hours at a time.

And finally, the reindeer who would graze

the snow as we walked along, listening to the clicking of their tendons making a snaping noise over the sesamoid bones in their feet, which was an amazing adaptation to hear where the rest of their herd are in a blizzard.

For me, The Great Nomad Expedition was a soul-searching experience where music is like medicine. Mongolians sing for the baby camels until they drink from their mothers, they sing to bless the last horse in a race. One of the most

beautiful experiences was listening to a dad hum in the middle of the night to put his baby girl back to sleep so she wouldn’t wake us up as we slept on the floor of their tent.

Nearly a whole year later, it really does feel like a fairy tale…and my goodness as a culture, we have so much to learn.

For further information please visit The Great Nomad Expedition at thegreatnomadexpedition. squarespace.com

Three Aussies, five Kiwis, a Canadian and Yank booked a spot on the adventure.

AMELIA OLSEN

A journey on camel, reindeer and horse.

Traditional Mongolian dress.

The Great Nomad Expedition guests travelled 100km each day.

Your next journey awaits

VIKING has launched its new ‘Discover More for Less’ sale, providing Australian and New Zealand travellers with new booking incentives across Viking’s extensive range of 2025, 2026 and 2027 river, ocean and expedition voyages.

From now through until 30 June 2025, the company is offering savings of up to 30 percent on select river and ocean* voyages, as well as savings of up to $2,400 per couple on expedition voyages. (*Excludes ocean voyages, World Cruises and Grand Journeys.)

Michelle Black, Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, Viking said, “Now is the perfect time for agents and their clients who are planning trips in 2025 and beyond.”

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Viking explores all seven continents, with river, ocean and expedition voyages calling in more than 500 ports in more than 85 countries.

Highlights of the most popular itineraries include:

15-day Grand European Tour from Budapest to Amsterdam or vice versa is priced from $6,895 per person in a Standard Stateroom, with savings of up to $4,800 per couple. On this tour guests will get admire Rhine Valley vistas from a 900-yearold castle and sample the culinary delights of Austria’s Wachau Valley. Learn the Viennese waltz, visit Melk’s Benedictine Abbey and ponder Nuremberg’s World War II history. Indulge the senses on this fifteen-day journey spanning the best of Europe, tracing the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers between the windmill-dotted waterways of Holland and the stunning landscapes of Hungary, with engaging encounters at every bend.

8-day Rhine Getaway from Basel to Amsterdam or v.v. is priced from $2,995 per person in a Standard Stateroom, with savings of up to $4,800 per couple. Explore one of Europe’s best-loved rivers. Discover the turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, historic cities, medieval towns and stunning scenery of the Middle Rhine—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Taste the region’s renowned white wines, the roots of its terraced vineyards reaching back to Roman times. Savor the various culinary traditions of Alsace. With calls in Amsterdam, Cologne and Basel, this journey reveals a rich landscape of beauty and culture.

8-day Iconic Western Mediterranean from Barcelona to Rome or v.v. is priced from $4,195 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $2,400 per couple. France’s famed southern coast and Italy’s Renaissance treasures take centre stage on this eight-day Mediterranean sojourn. Immerse yourself in Catalonian and Tuscan art, architecture and history during overnights in Barcelona and Tuscany. In the South of

France, call on historic Montpellier and picturesque Marseille, and visit Monte Carlo, Monaco’s glamorous city by the sea.

15-day Far Eastern Horizons from Hong Kong to Tokyo is priced from $14,195 per person in a Veranda Stateroom, with savings of up to $4,400 per couple. Unravel the mysteries of one of the most captivating corners of Asia. Mingle with merchants at Hong Kong’s famed Stanley Market. Learn the nuances of Taiwan from a local. Hear about the recovery of Nagasaki and Hiroshima from residents who connect guests to their rebirths. And make sense of the dazzling cultures of Shimizu and Tokyo with the help of those who live there. Overnight stays in four ports let guests to delve deeply.

13-day Antarctic Explorer round-trip from Buenos Aires is priced from $17,995 per person in a Nordic Balcony Stateroom, with savings of up to $2,400 per couple. This ultimate adventure takes travellers to the Antarctic peninsula, to witness towering glaciers, snow-covered landscapes, immense icebergs and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife viewing. In the footsteps of explorers such as

Amundsen, Shackleton and Scott, guests will be one of the few to discover the world’s last truly wild frontier.

Each day brings new surprises and the opportunity to change plans to maximize wildlife sight-

ings and adapt to ever-changing weather. For further information on these or any of Vikings exciting adventures please visit website www.viking.com or call 138 747 for further information.

LEE MCCARTHY

Visit stunning Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city on route to Antarctica. (Supplied)

The stunning Hilltop Palace and Harbour of Monte Carlo.

Far East Panorama of the Business District in Hong Kong.

Viking Longships travel along the Rhine; Cathedral Towers of Cologne.

Visit the magnificent Vatican City.

EUROPEAN SOJOURN

Amsterdam to Bucharest or vice versa

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GRAND EUROPEAN TOUR

Amsterdam to Budapest or vice versa

15 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES | 12 GUIDED TOURS

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From $11,695pp in Veranda Stateroom

Discover More FOR LESS

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Save up to 30% on selected river and ocean voyages booked by 30 June 2025*.

RHINE GETAWAY

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SET SAIL: JUN-NOV 2025; MAR-NOV 2026; 2027

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BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

Luxury Cunard Voyage from Singapore to Sydney

Discover Hong Kong

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Your holiday includes Full-Board Cruise

23 night full-board cruise on board the BRAND-NEW Queen Anne

The brand-new Queen Anne is a luxurious cruise liner o ering opulent accommodations, fine dining, and exquisite service, promising an unforgettable voyage of elegance and indulgence on the high seas.

Complimentary Hotel Stay

2 night four-star hotel stay in Singapore at the PARKROYAL on Beach Road with breakfast

25 Nights | 20 February 2026 | Prices fr $7,299pp

Enjoy a two-night stay in Singapore before embarking the newest addition to Cunard’s fleet, Queen Anne, for the voyage to Sydney.

From the Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay to the cultural intrigue of Chinatown, Singapore remains one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia. Discover the island-state’s beautiful botanical gardens and colonial landmarks during a two-night hotel stay ahead of a 23-night voyage on board Queen Anne as she sails to Sydney.

The newest member of the Cunard fleet, Queen Anne promises everything that makes a Cunard cruise so special, from Gala Evenings to a ernoon teas and enriching guest lectures. Enjoy a night in port in Hong Kong before sailing to Manila and onwards to Darwin. The sunshine of Queensland beckons next, from Airlie Beach to Brisbane, before your cruise culminates with a night in port in Sydney.

Visiting: Singapore, Hong Kong (overnight in port), Manila, Bitung, Darwin, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney (overnight in port)

Complimentary Outbound Flight, Taxes & Transfers

Singapore, Hong Kong (overnight in port), Manila, Bitung, Darwin, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney (overnight in port)

MEET THE CANDIDATES

Focus on Hotham battle

The safe Labor seat of Hotham has been held by Housing and Homelessness Minister Clare O’Neil since 2013.

On the ballot order for the upcoming federal election, O’Neil drew second-last out of six candidates, and Liberal self-employed candidate Harmick Singh Matharu was drawn last.

Top of the ballot is retiree Tony Vainoras (Citizens Party), with Greens child protection practitioner Martin Barry in second spot.

Others in Hotham are real estate agent Stuart Fogarty (One Nation) and retiree Mark Brown (Family First).

STUART FOGARTY (One Nation)

1. Where do I live and how long have I lived there?

I live in Mulgrave since 2022 with my wife and we both work in the local area.

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

The reason I have chosen to run for the seat of Hotham is because I have seen a decline in Australian living standards and the lack of accountability from both the major parties is very concerning.

3. Why are you the best candidate for seat of Hotham?

My strong knowledge of the Electorate and the people that live and work there. I am passionate and driven to make the Electorate shine and tackle issues that face the community daily. I want to be the voice to keep the major parties honest and to have the community of Hotham first and foremost in mind regarding cost of living and housing crisis.

4. Can you tell us about your life outside of work?

When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter and travelling Australia to discover new and exciting places. I also like to keep fit and healthy in a variety of sports and activities.

5. The 3 biggest issues facing the electorate of Hotham are:

LOOKING BACK

100 years ago

23 April 1925

GENERAL NEWS

The Railway Department has a passed a regulation prohibiting throwing confetti, rice, etc., on stations and in carriages, offenders being liable to a fine of 5 pounds for each offence. In future, persons who wish to show their good wishes towards newly-married couples by throwing confetti, rice, old boots and similar articles, will have to do so before they reach the railway station.

50 years ago

24 April 1975

Redlegs given a hiding by Port

What a hiding the Redlegs were given by Port. But the angel of misfortune is taking a liking

INTERFAITH

• The cost of living impacting everyday life, businesses and families, rents & mortgages and the costs of fuel and groceries.

• Mental health issues, disadvantaged or homelessness people in the community, rent stress for individuals or families on jobseeker payments which are inadequate in 2025.

• Lack of doctors or medical facilities and access to mental health services, wait times and not enough bulk billing clinics add to the stress and costs a family must cover in Hotham.

6. Whats your No.1 policy for reducing the cost of living?

A 3 year cut on the fuel excise in half to 26c, reducing transport costs which will bring down supermarket costs.

7. The 3 most important policies are:

• Cost of living policy to reduce the burden on families, business and individuals in the community.

• More affordable housing by implementing a 5 year moratorium on building materials used in new homes along with a review of government charges that make up 44% of the cost to build a new home.

• Climate change and to understand and implement policy to reduce our carbon footprint without adding costs to taxpayers and the safeguard or future generations for many years to come.

to Shepley Oval. After all, Travis Payze and his people at Dandenong have appeared to have made a fair fist of replacing the Redleg player losses from 1974.

TELEVISION

Talking of television coverage last Sunday, it would seem that the people with colour television sets were well suited by the new designs that comprised the Port and Dandy uniforms. But not people who viewed the match on black and white television receivers. These people – and they would be well in the majority, had plenty of trouble identifying the Port team from the Dandy team. In fact, they all missed the old rule that teams playing away must wear white

MARK BROWN (Family First)

1. Where do you live and how long have you lived there?

I live in Parkdale, a bayside suburb of Melbourne, and have spent my entire life in the Bayside area, deeply connected to the local community.

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

I chose to run for Hotham because I believe politicians have created a cost-of-living crisis through net zero policies, are confusing our children about their gender, and are putting pressure on parents’ rights to educate their children at the faith-based school of their choice. I want to stand up for families and restore common sense to government decision-making.

I’m proud to campaign alongside Bernie Finn, Family First’s lead Senate candidate for Victoria. A former Liberal MP expelled for his pro-family and pro-life values, Bernie is a tireless advocate for affordable energy, parental rights, and protecting children from radical ideologies. Together, we aim to amplify family values in Parliament and reverse policies hurting Australian households.

3. Why are you the best candidate for Hotham?

I bring a diverse background and am passionate about truth and honesty. My life experience, including caring for my father through illness and my commitment to health and wellbeing, has given me compassion and a strong sense of responsibility. I will fight for affordable electricity, parental rights in education, and the protection of women’s and girls’ spaces.

4. Can you tell us about your life outside of work?

Outside of work, I have studied martial arts and am a keen health and fitness practitioner. I have dedicated many years to studying natural health and wellness, always seeking to help others restore balance and live healthier lives.

5. What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing the electorate?

• Cost of living

• Cost of living

white telly.

20 years ago

April 2005

Office boost for VicRoads

• Cost of living This crisis is impacting families across the electorate and must be urgently addressed.

6. What’s your No.1 policy for reducing costof-living?

My number one policy is to cut power prices. Australia must urgently abandon net zero, the Paris accords, and the rollout of windmills and solar factories, which are driving up electricity costs. We need to return to affordable and reliable sources of power generation, such as Victoria’s abundant coal and gas.

7. What are your three other most important policies?

• Stand up for families: Safeguard children, girls, and women from gender-fluid ideology and ensure girls and women their safety in sports and private spaces

• Defend faith and protect parents’ rights to choose faith-based education

• Defend the rights of parents……stop the poisonous ideas being pushed on our children. CLARE O’NEIL (Labor)

1. Where do you live and how long have you lived there?

I live in Hotham with my husband and three kids in beautiful Oakleigh. I’ve lived in different parts of this wonderful south-east Melbourne community, including Springvale and Noble Park. I’m proud to call Hotham home.

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

Because I love every part of Hotham. I’ve lived and worked in or represented Melbourne’s southeast most of my adult life, including as Mayor of Greater Dandenong. Our locals deserve a strong voice in our nation’s Parliament. Whether it’s standing up for you at Council 20 years ago or in the Federal Parliament now, I’ve always fought for our community.

3. Why are you the best candidate for Hotham? As a mum, my household also juggles the chaos of life. I’m a proud local who wants to see the best for our community. And I’m a fighter, who

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

Police Minister and Lyndhurst MP Tim Holding inspected the new VicRoads Dandenong customer service centre in Greens Road last week. The new centre will house 35 staff and provide services including the registration of vehicles, boats and trailers, license-testing and various counter services including license renewal and numberplate sales. Mr Holding said the Dandenong VicRoads centre was the second busiest in the state and serviced as many as 13,000 customers a month.

5 years ago

21 April 2020

Silence deepens this Anzac Day For the first time in more than 100 years, no Anzac services will be held at the nation’s cenotaphs. Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL president John Wells was “devastated” by the halting of traditional marches and ceremonies on April 25th. This year, like many, Mr Wells will stand at the front of his home driveway at 6am – to the bugled tune of Reveille. In a slither of “silver-lining”, Mr Wells is seeing another side of community spirit emerge as neighbours offer to help each other during the coronavirus lockdown, That represents the ‘Anzac’ virtues of mateship, looking after each other, self-reliance, courage, duty and patriotism, Mr Wells says.

Easter a time for reflection, renewal and hope in action

By Livia Carusi, executive officer of Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network

Ask a child, or even an adult, ‘what does Easter mean to you’, undoubtedly the responses we would hear are as diverse as our local neighbour hoods.

For example, the meaning of Easter for some folks is about the easter bunny, easter eggs, the easter egg hunt, holidays, family time, giving something up for Lent, fish and chips on Good Friday, perhaps attending church for the first time in a long time, or a few more times over the Easter period, or a combination of these.

MESSAGE OF HOPE

on ‘what is happening in the world, within my community’, the day-to-day struggles of people to get by, to give thanks to those that support, assist others who are doing it tough, and to ask myself, with honesty, how have I made my compassion and kindness known to others?

For me, and those closet to me, the meaning of Easter is all of this and something a little more.

It is a little more because in a world that is both more and more connected and disconnected at the same time, the meaning of Easter introduces a time for reflection, renewal and hope in action.

As a Christian, Easter presents a time to reflect

None of us get it right all the time.

Like the changing seasons, Easter symbolises for me a time for renewal.

A time to re-set, a time to dig deep and think about what is important and how am I going to make a meaningful contribution to others in my

work and service?

The ‘how I am going to make a meaningful contribution to others’ is about hope in action.

Hope in action is about the pursuit of social

Social justice can mean different things to people, for me it centres on opportunities for people, access to resources enabling everybody to thrive and live a life of dignity.

Being committed to the pursuit of social justice does not need to be on a grand scale.

It can be, for example, joining a local community group around a particular issue, it can also be the little things that we can all do that makes a difference to others and community.

However, you spend this time, may it be joyous and peaceful.

Enquiries regarding the Interfaith Network, City of Greater Dandenong: administration@interfaithnetwork.org.au or 8774 7662.

Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network executive officer Livia Carusi.

Hotham.

MEET THE CANDIDATES

delivers for Hotham. Just recently, I’ve announced that a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will commit $4.5 million to construct a Greek cultural hub in Hotham, $225k to restore the Ukrainian Community Centre in Noble Park and $3.6 million to create more equitable, inclusive playing fields across Hotham, including $900k towards Ross Reserve Amenities Upgrades in Noble Park.

4. Can you tell us about your life outside of work?

I’m mum of three kids, two dogs, three chickens and a lizard, and an equally busy husband (who works in mental health). Every minute I can, I’m keeping it local. Walking our pups in local parks, driving our kids to school and sports and supporting local businesses.

5. What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing the electorate?

Cost-of-living is issue number one, two and three. But Labor is working hard to make it easier for everyone. We’re strengthening Medicare, cutting taxes, providing energy bill relief, tackling the housing crisis, cutting HECS debt, making free TAFE permanent. All that’s at risk under Peter Dutton.

6. What’s your No. 1 policy for reducing cost of living?

Labor is delivering cost of living relief in multiple

ways – another tax cut for every taxpayer, energy bill relief for every household, cheaper medicines and higher wages.

7. What are your three other most important policies?

One: As Housing Minister, I’m focused on tackling the housing crisis by making it easier to buy, better to rent and building more homes. Two: As a mum, I know how important healthcare is. We’re strengthening Medicare by expanding bulk-billing and opening Medicare Urgent Care Clinics – also making medicines cheaper. And three: I’m passionate about education. The Albanese Labor Government has now reached agreements across Australia to put all public schools on a path to full and fair funding. And a re-elected Albanese Labor Government will cut existing HECS debt by 20% - also, the permanent introduction of free TAFE!

MARTIN BARRY (Greens)

1. Where do you live and how long have you lived there?

I moved to Chadstone, from Bentleigh East in May 2024 and have lived in the southeasternsuburbs of Melbourne since 2018. I grew up in Gippsland but moved inward to attend Monash University in Clayton.

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

I want to see Hotham represented by somebody who knows what everyday Aussies are going through and has a plan to make things better. As a public servant and a renter, trying to save for a house and feeling the cost-of-living bite, I know how tough things are right now. As part of the Greens, I am putting forward real solutions.

3. Why are you the best candidate for Hotham? As a public servant, I know the key role that government services play in delivering the essentials for our community, from infrastructure to healthcare. Good policy and quality public service are the key to prosperity for Australians. As your member I will work with our public servants and parliament to deliver exactly this.

4. Can you tell us about your life outside of work?

I come from a large extended family, and cannot stress enough the importance of the support I receive from them and my partner Ann. I play footy, indoor soccer, and basketball in local leagues. I enjoy gaming, reading classics, and playing with my dog Benji.

5. What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing the electorate?

• Housing affordability

• Access to affordable, quality education, from

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toddlers to TAFE and university

• Comprehensive public healthcare, including GP visits, dental and mental health

6. What’s your No.1 policy for reducing costof-living?

There’s no 1 policy that can do enough to reduce the cost burden on people by itself. That’s why the Greens have announced a raft of measures that touch on the areas hitting people the hardest. My favourites include:

• Setting up a Public Builder to build 200,000 quality and affordable public homes for renters and owner-occupants, not investors.

• Expanding Medicare, by fully funding GP bulk billing and adding dental and mental health coverage. Making price-gouging illegal, to stop corporations from ripping us off.

7. What are your three other most important policies?

• Reuniting you and your families faster by clearing the backlog of family and partner visa applications (and lowering the cost too).

• Fully funding Public Schools to deliver a worldclass education, so families don’t need to choose between breaking the bank and their kids’ future.

• Fixing the childcare system, by running quality public childcares with funded spots for all kids who need it.

Authorised by Rachel Payne MP, 384a Nepean Highway, Chelsea VIC 3196

Stuart Fogarty (One Nation)

Mark Brown (Family First)

Clare O’Neil (Labor)

Martin Barry (Greens)

MEET THE CANDIDATES

Labor MP and Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus has held Isaacs since 2007. For the 2025 federal election, he has drawn top position on the ballot. Second position is Greens policy officer Matthew Kirwan, and Liberal lawyer Fiona Ottey drew fourth out of a field of five. Others in Isaacs are activity centre coordinator Audrey Harmse (Family First) and electrical engineer Geoff McMahon (One Nation).

Who’s who in Isaacs

1. Where do you live and how long for?

I’ve lived almost 45 years in Isaacs but am currently living nearby in the bayside suburbs and still very lucky to live near the community I grew up in. I was born and raised in Aspendale and Cheltenham and settled with my own family in Parkdale, and later Mentone.

2. Why run for Isaacs?

I love Isaacs. It’s where I have lived nearly all my life, went to school, got my first job and chose to raise my own family.  I feel comfortable in the local community and care passionately about it.  It will always feel like home.

3. Why did I choose my party?

I share the aspirational values of the Liberal party.  I want to secure peace and prosperity and our freedoms and privileges. The Liberal Party is well positioned to support the next generation to live the Australian dream of home ownership through its policies and I want to be part of that solution.

4. What do you work as?

I am a litigation lawyer currently working in dispute resolution and will bring my skills and understanding of the legal system to being a strong voice for Isaacs.

5.  Three most important policies?

Helping achieve home ownership and reducing financial stress.

A Liberal government will allow first home buyers of new builds to claim a tax deduction of the interest paid on the first $650,000 of their mortgage for the first five years.

We will also ban for two years foreign investors and temporary residents buying an existing home and invest $5 billion into essential infrastructure to unlock 500,000 new homes.

I’m also excited about our $1200 a year tax relief plan which benefits 85% of taxpayers and getting the Melbourne airport rail link built with our $13 billion plan.

6. Your thoughts on upgrading Dandenong Station and do you support it?

Dandenong Station represents what happens when you have State and Federal Labor Governments taking areas for granted. This needs to be prioritised and if elected, I will advocate for this upgrade along with the State Opposition.

7. What’s your number one policy to reduce cost of living pressures?

Under Anthony Albanese and Labor, everything is going up - from groceries to power bills and Australians have never done it tougher. That’s why I’m proud to be part of a team that will deliver immediate cost-of-living relief with 25c/L off the cost of petrol, we will abolish Labor’s Ute and car tax, and we will bring down the cost of doing business.

MATTHEW KIRWAN (Greens)

1. Where do you live and how long for?

I grew up in Keysborough and have lived the last 10 years in Noble Park with my wife Jenny and my two twin girls Eloise and Sylvia. Except for one year I have lived in Isaacs all my life.

2. Why did you choose to run for the seat of Isaacs?

Labor has neglected Isaacs for too long, regarding it as a safe seat. I’ve dedicated my life to fighting for my community whether as a former local Councillor (2012-2020) or as a local volunteer. It’s a community where there is significant poverty. We need a future where no one is left behind and everyone can access quality public services and affordable homes.

By having a fairer tax system we can fund things we need. By investing in renewable energy we can act on the climate crisis, create green jobs and tackle inequality at the same time. Acting on the climate crisis is vital - it’s about human survival. Those on low incomes and the older members of the Isaacs community are the most impacted by rising temperatures.

3. Why did you choose your party?

The Greens are the only party with vision. They have policies that tackle the social justice and environmental concerns of today and the longterm needs of Australians tomorrow.

The major parties are just trying to win elections with short-term promises and don’t have policies that build a just and sustainable future for all.

4. What do you work as?

I work as a social policy officer, focussing on affordable housing and climate resilience action for those who are going to feel the brunt of climate change: our older, disadvantaged and multicultural communities.

5. What are the three most important policies you’re in support of?

Free GP visits & Dental and Mental health into Medicare.

Real action on affordable housing including building public homes to rent and buy. Lift wages, create well-paid secure jobs and defend your rights.

MARK DREYFUS (Labor)

1. Where do you live and how long for?

I live in Malvern, in the family home where my children were raised, and where I have lived for nearly 40 years.

2. Why did you choose to run for the seat of Isaacs?

I have lived most of my life in south east Melbourne and I love this area. I am proud to have represented the people of Isaacs since 2007 and I hope to continue that service.

3. Why did you choose your party?

The Labor party believes in the things I believe in - Medicare, a fair go for all Australians, access to justice, decent wages, the right to a good education, protecting our precious environment and social justice.

4. What do you work as?

I am the current Member for Isaacs, Commonwealth Attorney-General and Cabinet Secretary.

5. What are the three most important policies you’re in support of?

Medicare - affordable health care is the bedrock of a good society.

Strong wages – under the Albanese Labor Government wages have started moving again, meaning Australians can enjoy a decent standard of living.

Tax cuts – every taxpayer gets a tax cut under the Albanese Labor Government. Peter Dutton will increase your taxes.

6. Your thoughts on upgrading Dandenong Station and do you support it?

The Albanese Labor Government is building Victoria’s future, and in February announced an investment of more than $3.3 billion in Victoria for new road and rail projects to boost economic growth, improve connectivity and tackle congestion on suburban roads.

The Victorian metro rail network is primarily a responsibility of the Victorian government.

7. What’s your number one policy to reduce cost of living pressures?

All the Albanese Government’s policies are

6. Your thoughts on upgrading the Dandenong Station and do you support it?

I support upgrading Dandenong Station. It is aged and run-down, has disability access issues and integrates poorly into the commercial centre of Dandenong It needs to be upgraded for the Cranbourne line duplication and to be an effective bus hub. We need a Dandenong Railway Station that is more like Box Hill Station. Commercial and residential development should be part of a new station.

7. What’s your number one policy to reduce cost of living pressures?

Free GP visits & Dental and Mental Health into Medicare. It’s not only an important health policy that has been already adopted by a number of European countries, but also the lack of bulk billing GPs in Isaacs and the crippling costs of dental and mental health are critical cost of living issues.

working together to reduce the cost of living. We’re providing tax cuts for every taxpayer, boosting bulk billing, making TAFE free and slashing HECS debts, cutting energy bills by $300 a year, and making it easier to buy a home. Thanks to the hard work of the Albanese Labor Government inflation is coming down, making it easier for families.

FIONA OTTEY (Liberal)

Fiona Ottey (Liberal).

Matthew Kirwan (Greens).

Mark Dreyfus (Labor).

ANZAC Day services

Marches and services will be held by Noble Park RSL and Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL.

• Thursday 24 April, 11am service at Endeavour Hills War Memorial, Heatherton Road, Endeavour Hills; Friday 25 April, 6am-7am dawn service at Pillars of Freedom (Palm Plaza), Clow Street, Dandenong and Friday 25 April, 10.45am-12pm march and service, Pillars of Freedom (Palm Plaza), Clow Street, Dandenong. Free events.

Heritage Hill tour

Free tour of Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens with City of Greater Dandenong’s expert garden and heritage staff. Tours encompass two historic houses, Laurel Lodge and Benga and the surrounding gardens. Light morning tea is provided. Numbers are limited, bookings required.

• Thursday 24 April, 10am-12pm at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong. Free event. Register at trybooking.com/events/landing/1349027

Mother’s Day charity concert

A delightful gathering with festive food and a special concert program, honouring the love and dedication of mothers.

• Saturday 3 May, 11.15am-6.10pm at The Castle, 61 Princes Highway, Dandenong. Free event. Details: Richard Ng, 0405 079 229, erhusoul@ gmail.com and erhusoul.org.au

Garden expo

Permaculture, recycling, compost, worm world, seedling and planting workshops. Activities for all ages along with tours around our community garden.

• Sunday 4 May 11am-3pm at Noble Park Community Centre, 44 Memorial Drive, Noble Park. Free entry.

Pop-in blood donations

One in three people in Greater Dandenong will need blood, and they need people like you to give it. To donate, register at lifeblood.com.au/donor-centre/ vic/dandenong-pop-up-donor-centre

• Monday 5 May - Friday 9 May at St Mary’s Community Centre, New Street, Dandenong. Navigating grief

A specialist grief practitioner from Grief Australia will be leading a session to demystify grief and the expectations people hold of themselves during

mourning. Discussion on the emotional, physical and spiritual ways we can support ourselves during times of despair and sorrow. Sessions limited to 15 people.

• Wednesdays, 7 May, 2 July, 3 September, 5 November at Nolan Room, Bunurong Memorial Park, 790 Frankston-Dandenong Road, Dandenong South. Free event. Register at smct.org. au/events/navigating-grief-bunurong

Chai Time

Join us for a special afternoon of delicious connoisseur canapes, sweet treats, and premium tea, all while supporting Wellsprings for Women’s Emergency Relief Program.

• Saturday 17 May (note date has changed!), 2pm-5pm at Kennedy Hall, Killester College, 433 Springvale Rd, Springvale. RSVP by Thursday, 17 April.

Come Try Dancing

DanceSport Australia presents free beginner dance classes for adults.

• Runs until Thursday 8 May on Mondays 10.30am-11.30am, Wednesdays 10.30am11.30am and 7.30pm-8.30pm, and Thursdays 11am-12pm at 2 Southpark Close, Keysborough. Details: The DanceSport Lab, 0424 136 246.

Homeschool Enrichment Class

This class is designed to provide additional learning experiences outside of the standard homeschooling curriculum, with a focus on specific subjects and skills.

• Tuesdays 11.30am-1pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $5/ session.

Citizenship Test Preparation

We will help you to improve your English and understand the questions and answers in the citizenship test.

• Thursdays 6.30pm-8.30pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $20/term.

9 by 5 exhibition

Artists from around Australia present their creativity on panels measuring nine inches by five inches in a wide variety of styles.

• Mondays-Fridays until 5 May, 10am-4pm (and select Saturdays 8 March, 22 March and 5

April, 10.30am-2.30pm) at Drum Theatre, corner Walker and Lonsdale streets, Dandenong. Free event.

“WE” - Women’s Empowerment Workshops

Developed for disadvantaged women in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities in Dandenong. The workshops are designed to enhance social cohesion and self-advocacy in a fun and supportive environment. Topics around personal welbeing such as fitness, nutrition, finance, mindfulness, and creative art.

• Wednesdays 10.30am-12.30pm at Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park. Free event. Details: Rachel, 0491 144 836 or rachelw@adec.org.au

• Register at https://www.greaterdandenong.vic. gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/events/wewomens-empowerment-workshops

Multicultural Anxiety Support Group

Inclusive and confidential space for people of varying ethnic and cultural backgrounds who experience persistent anxiety. Regular meetings held online on Zoom, with friendly volunteers.

• First Monday of each month, 6pm-7.30pm. Free event, register at greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ greater-dandenong-council/events/multicultural-anxiety-support-group

Conversation Corner

The Conversation Corner is a safe space to share stories and build new connections. Anyone is welcome to join, no bookings required, and newcomers are welcome anytime.

• Wednesdays 1pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive. Free event.

All Abilities Garden

Become a part of the team that cultivates our brand new All Abilities Garden. You will plan, grow, and take care of the wonderful garden designed by members of the disability community for people of all abilities.

• Tuesdays 1pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive. Free event.

We Built This City

Come and see stories behind Greater Dandenong’s favourite heritage places through short videos, historic objects, photographs and oral histories from Council and local historical society collections.

• Wednesdays and Thursdays (excluding public holidays) until 18 May 2025 at Benga, Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong. Free event.

Sandown Probus

Are you retired or semi-retired and would like to stay engaged and connected with others? Come along and see if you would like to join Sandown Probus Club. Enjoy the opportunity to make new friends, expand your interests, participate in the variety of activities and hear guest speakers on a wide range of subjects.

• 2nd Monday of each month at Club Noble, Moodemere Street, Noble Park. Details: probussouthpacific.org/microsites/sandown or Marion, 0458 660 016.

Soccer registrations open

Expressions of interest open for new players across all age groups at Springvale City Soccer Club - Miniroos 7-12, Juniors 13-16, Boys and Girls Youth 17-23, as well as mens and womens’ thirds, reserves and seniors. Miniroos and juniors training powered by No Limits Aquila Academy. Details: springvalecitysc.com.au/

Come Dance with Me - Line Dancing Come along and learn tips and techniques to this line dancing activity. Learn it well and learn from scratch from patient instructor. Suitable and tailored for all ages. No partner necessary. Wear casual clothing, bring water bottle, closed shoes and positive attitude.

• Tuesdays from 5.45pm-6.30pm (school terms only) at Springers Leisure Centre, 400 Cheltenham Road, Keysborough; $10 prepaid classes / $15 casual attendance - a five-week package that can be repeated. Details: 0412 296 827 or mariepietersz@hotmail.com

Noble Park Probus

A warm invitation is extended to anyone in the local community who is aged 55 and over, not working full time to visit us with a view to becoming a member at Noble Park Combined Probus Club. Meets monthly for morning tea and an interesting guest speaker. Also special lunches, day trips and extended trips such as to Bright. We make sure we promote the Probus core values of ’Friendship, fellowship and fun’.

• First Monday of the month, 10am at Club Noble. Details: Roslyn, rgrassham07@gmail.com or 0410628249.

Women’s team in the West

By David Nagel

There’s an unbreakable spirit that exists at the Dandenong West Football Netball Club.

You can feel it blowing through the trees at the Dandenong Showgrounds at Greaves Reserve, the club’s home on Bennett Street since Bill Monahan and a like-minded group of locals brought the club to life in 1963.

Back then Dandenong West Junior Football Club was just that, a junior club only, a foundation member of the Dandenong and Districts Junior Football League (DDJFL).

Navy blue and white were its colours.

The club has held strong through several name changes since, being the Dandenong Demons, Dandenong Football Club, Dandenong Football Netball Club…before a return to its original roots in 2024.

Even the colours had changed through that time, with the navy blue and white being replaced by the shades of the Redlegs; paying homage to Dandenong’s most famous club that became a powerhouse in VFA football.

In July 2023, a decision was made to return to the traditional navy blue and white colours and have the Dandenong West name reinstated.

And with the passion that exists within its community, you get the feeling the Dandenong West Football Netball Club is going to be around for many, many years to come.

And there are none more passionate than life member and Godmother of the club…Margaret Kane.

“I started in 1979 when we took our son down there to play the under-10s and my late husband Neville ended up being the grounds manager for 24 years,” Kane explained.

“Our daughter was in the cheer squad and our youngest son ended up playing in the last junior side that Dandy West ever had, and they got a premiership on that day.

“In 1988 I became the club and the league’s first woman president.

“I’m also a life member of the DDJFL (Dandenong Districts Junior Football League) which is now the South East Juniors.

“A lot of people don’t realise the amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to make a club function.

“The toilets have to be cleaned, fridges have to be filled, jumpers have to be washed, umpires’

rooms have to be cleaned; I’ve put yellow lollie pops in urinals…all sorts of things.

“When you don’t have a lot of people to help, these things still have to be done.

“We started off in the old tin shed near the railway line; that’s when we had very strong junior sides.

“In 1981 we had under 14s and under 18s both win a flag that day.

“Things like that were pretty exciting.”

But alongside those exciting times are down moments, such as the time when Dandenong West almost became non-existent.

“In the early 2000s I was directed by the league to shut the doors or do something about it, because with three rounds to go we only had nine players,” Kane said.

“There was word going around that nobody liked Dandenong West, but we changed the colours – me and a few other people on the committee – and it caused a lot of dissention in the club.

“But we had to do something about it and we did.

“Last year we went back to the navy blue with the white DW on the front and the senior boys did play finals.

“Ever since we changed back to our original colours, there’s been a resurgence, we’ve

been reborn.

“The rebirth is because we’ve gone back to our roots, because we were a foundation member of the DDJFL back in 1963 and we’re a very proud football club.”

Part of that rebirth is a regeneration of sorts, with Dandenong West this year fielding its firstever women’s football team.

It’s a growth within the club that Kane is thrilled about.

“We’ve got over 60 senior players in the seniors, reserves and thirds, and now for the first time ever we’ve got a women’s team; which I am ecstatic about,” Kane said with unbridled joy in her voice.

“The girls are so keen and enthusiastic, the coach (Justin Smith) is great, we just need to support these girls with some local sponsorship to get things up and running and off-set the costs to the girls.

“Either that, or we sell more pies, sausage rolls and hot dogs.

“Women’s football is very prolific now and we thought why not have a women’s side.

“And I tell you what…if I was 50 years younger, I’d be pulling on the boots.

“I’ve been at that club for 46 years; it’s just in my blood.

“I bleed navy blue and white.

“They call me the Godmother, and I live up to it because I’m so passionate about our club.

“I also love Carlton, so when we moved to the area and found out our local club was navy blue and white, I thought this is the way to go.

“Of course we went to Dandy West; our kids went to school there and we lived there for 40 years.

“It was just our home…and the football club was a huge part of that home.”

Dandenong West Football Netball Club will celebrate the introduction of its inaugural women’s team with a special ceremony prior to its round four home clash at Greaves Reserve on Saturday 3 May.

With the Bill Monahan Pavilion looking over the parade, Margaret Kane will welcome the girls to the proud history of the football club.

“All four teams will be playing and I have the honour, which I’m absolutely chuffed about, to present the girls with their jumpers,” Kane said.

“And if there’s a spare one floating about…look out; I might run out with the girls myself.”

The women’s team is currently short on numbers, with people looking to get involved – regardless of experience – encouraged to contact the club.

Saints and Eagles set for blockbuster Anzac Day clash

By David Nagel

The pain of a straight-sets exit has not sat comfortably on the shoulders of the South Belgrave Football Club over the last six months.

The Saints finished second on the ladder last year, but lost to eventual premiers Mitcham by 26 points in the qualifying final; after trailing by 50 points at three-quarter time.

South Belgrave was expected to bounce back strongly in the first semi-final against Beaconsfield, but had to pack its bags quickly after a three-point loss to the Eagles after a grandstand finish for the ages.

Fast-forward those six months, and the Saints get their first shot at redemption this week when they host Beaconsfield in a blockbuster round-three clash in Eastern Division 1 football on Anzac Day.

The Saints could not have been more impressive as they begin their premiership push this season, with a 42-point victory over last year’s grand finalist Park Orchard followed by a 91-point thumping of Norwood.

Proven key forward Taylor Garner has already strutted his stuff in grand style, booting 13 goals in those two games, while some fresh faces have added excitement and stability around the ground.

Clay Tucker has been a key addition from VFL club Box Hill, while Calvin Daraio has slotted in nicely after his move to the Saints from Vermont.

Kane Young is a huge asset for South, and an equally big loss for Premier Division club Rowville, while Sam Muirhead is a big-body addi-

(Rob Carew: 469881)

tion from Doveton that can play at either end of the ground.

Declan Smith was a South Belgrave junior last year that also slotted into the team nicely, while former St Kilda midfielder Luke Dunstan played an important role in the round-one victory over Park Orchards.

Beaconsfield was also impressive in round one, steamrolling North Ringwood with a 5.2 to 0.1 final term.

The Eagles have also added strongly to their list, with former Richmond half-forward Jake

Aarts slotting into the midfield like a hand into a glove, while youngster Marley Appleyard and classy left-footer Ali Zijai have added speed and grunt around the ground.

Travis Stewart was also important in the opening round victory, playing a key role in the ruck.

The big question for Eagles coach Mick Fogarty this week is; what does he do with his skipper and most versatile player Jake Bowd?

The tall and classy left-footer is a star at either end of the ground, with his impressive haul

of six goals against North Ringwood leading his side to victory.

But with South Belgrave possessing a string of tall key forwards, Fogarty might have to start his skipper down back!

The other question for Fogarty is; how will the Eagles begin the contest after two weeks sitting on the sidelines.

The Eagles had the round-two bye, followed by the Easter break, so will not have pulled on the guernsey for 20 days when they do so on Anzac Day.

We’ll go for South Belgrave to win a close one.

The remaining three games all take place on Saturday this week, with last year’s runners up Park Orchards looking to bank its first points of the season against Bayswater.

With Lewis Downie and Michael Prosenak in dangerous form up forward; Park Orchards should be too good at home.

Montrose should be a touch too strong for Boronia, while North Ringwood will look to make it back-to-back wins against Norwood.

The Saints fell short against Beaconsfield in round one but bounced back with a 14-point victory over Mooroolbark in round two.

Look for Xavier Borg and Jackson Braunthal to get busy and get North Ringwood across the line.

EASTERN DIVISION 1

• ROUND 3 TIPS: Friday 25 April: SOUTH BELGRAVE v Beaconsfield. Saturday 26 April: PARK ORCHARDS v Bayswater, Boronia v MONTROSE, NORTH RINGWOOD v Norwood. Bye: Mooroolbark

Beaconsfield is set for a huge visit to South Belgrave on Anzac Day in Eastern Division 1 football.

An inaugural women’s team is part of an exciting rebirth of the Dandenong West Football Netball Club. (Supplied: 473081)

Bulls hunting first success

By David Nagel

It’s still only early days in the Eastern Premier Division season but Noble Park and Berwick will be desperate for the four premiership points when the Bulls and Wickers collide at Pat Wright Oval on Saturday.

Both teams began their seasons with similar losses, being overrun in the second half after promising starts to their first-up outings.

The Bulls were powerless to stop a rampant Rowville at Seebeck Oval in round one, going down by 66 points.

Noble looked slightly impotent up forward compared to years gone by with Tom Nelson its only multiple goal scorer with two, while its defence was constantly under pressure with Rowville having 37 scoring shots at goal.

The Hawks midfield got right on top of their Bulls counterparts and its an area that Noble will need to improve on against the Wickers.

Fortunately for the Bulls, the Hawks were inaccurate in front of goal, kicking 20 points, or the margin could have been much greater.

The Hawks were dominant in the stifling conditions after the main break, kicking 13.10 to 6.1 to race away with the contest.

The Bulls are a proud football club and coach Steve Hughes will have his troops primed for a big result on the weekend.

Hughes will be relying on his leaders to stand tall, with skipper Ben Marson, Lachie McDonnell, Jordan Marson and Harley Fairbank set to rise to the challenge.

This a big game for both clubs, with Berwick an improved outfit from last year and going into this contest with more confidence than they have against the Bulls in the past.

The Wickers played some terrific football in the first half against Doncaster East in round one, kicking 10 goals across the opening two quarters of the season to lead by a straight kick at the major break.

The promise of new coach Andrew Williams to play exciting and free-flowing football was clearly evident in the first half, the Wickers kicking 10.4 to 9.4, with Daniel Pinter, Noah Cannon, Jesse Cirulis and Braedyn Bowden all showcasing their natural assets.

The second half was a different story for Berwick, who were subdued by the Lions, who allowed the Wickers just six scoring shots after half time.

Williams came into the season expecting his young team to experience some great highs and

extreme lows this season…and he got to see the full extremities of that prediction in just four quarters of football.

But things look promising for Berwick, with room for improvement from round one clear to see.

Dangerous forwards Jordy Andrews and Jai Neal contributed just one goal between them against the Lions, and improved output from those two will go a long way towards winning this contest.

You get the feeling this is the best chance Berwick has of beating the Bulls for the first time since entering Eastern, and we’ll go for the Wickers to pull a surprise and win by 11 points.

In other games this week, Balwyn host Rowville in a hot contest between two of this year’s genuine premiership contenders.

Balwyn, the reigning premiers, had a surprise loss to Blackburn on Good Friday, while Rowville looked quick and sharp against Noble Park.

Lachie Wynd and Kyle Stainthorpe look set for big seasons for the Hawks, after five and three goals respectively, while Mav Taylor and Lachie McDonald were others to shine up forward.

This one will be a ripper, but we’ll go for the Hawks to win a thriller.

Vermont will expect to get the four points against Doncaster East, while round two will be-

gin with two games on Anzac Day on Friday. East Ringwood should be too strong for competition newcomers Mitcham, while South Croydon host Blackburn with the home-town Bulldogs looking to bank their first win for the season at Cheong Park.

But Blackburn was super impressive in round one and should enjoy the rest of the Anzac weekend festivities after a comfortable victory.

EASTERN PREMIER

ROUND 2 TIPS

South Croydon v BLACKBURN, EAST RINGWOOD v Mitcham, VERMONT v Doncaster East, Balwyn v ROWVILLE, Noble Park v BERWICK.

Dingoes still undefeated as Redbacks aim for the stars

By Blair Burns

After a weekend off for most sides in the Southern Football Netball League teams have shifted their focus towards this weekend with some big matches scheduled.

In Division 1, Round 3 matches began last weekend as Dingley held off a late Springvale Districts surge to win by 15 points and go 3-0.

The game was perhaps closer than many expected and credit must go to the Dogs for fighting it out, but the Dingoes will be happy to bank another win.

Dingley remains the team to beat this season and has some sides in the league worried after its dominance over reigning premiers Cheltenham in the first round.

Bentleigh and Cheltenham will battle it out as both sides search for their second win of the season.

The Demons knocked off Murrumbeena last week but still conceded 101 points while the Rosellas bounced back in a big way smashing Springvale.

St Pauls McKinnon has a great opportunity to start the year 3-0 when it takes on Murrumbeena who are yet to win a game despite showing good signs.

The Bulldogs have found a way to win getting over the line by just two points in both matches, while the Lions will be hungry for their first win.

After a tough outing against East Brighton, Narre Warren needs to respond against Port Melbourne this weekend, but the Colts will not give in without a fight.

The Magpies will be looking to fly high in

what is an important game for them at this point in the season.

All of these games will be on Anzac Day with the exception of Cranbourne vs East Brighton which will go ahead on Saturday at Livingston Rec Reserve.

The Eagles will face the Vampires and it will be another huge test for Angelo Soldatos’ men as they search for their first win against arguably the best side in the league.

In Division 2, there is just one match scheduled for Anzac day with the other games to be played on Saturday.

Keysborough will be searching for its first win of the season when it takes on rival Caul-

field Bears in an Anzac Day blockbuster.

The Bears are also winless in 2025 but this game, under lights at Rowley Allen Reserve, promises to be an exciting clash and there will be no love lost between the two rivals.

Caulfield coach Lynden Dunn will be watching on from the sidelines after the ex-Collingwood player got a three-week suspension in Round 1 against Endeavour Hills.

Chris Smith and his troops will be determined to put together four quarters and make amends after a half time lead slipped away in Round 2 against the Frankston Dolphins.

Action kicks off at 7pm and this clash will be the only one of the Division 2 competition

scheduled for Anzac Day with the other games to follow on Saturday.

Endeavour Hills will travel to Darling Park the following day for a big test against East Malvern, who look to be one of the most formidable sides again this season.

The Panthers are 2-0 and sitting in second position on the ladder with a huge percentage while the Falcons are 1-1 and fell short in their Round 2 match against Doveton last Friday. Highett is 0-2 and things will not get any easier when they battle against Hampton Park this weekend, as the Redbacks continue to ride a huge wave of momentum.

Hampton Park looks like an early premiership favourite and will be hungry to dismantle the Bulldogs and start its season 3-0.

After a disappointing Round 1 loss which saw them thumped by 120 points, Doveton bounced back last week as it narrowly defeated Endeavour Hills, but this week it’ll take on Mordialloc.

The Bloods have won both of their matches and this clash against the Doves will be a great opportunity to jump even higher up the ladder and start the season well at 3-0, but they are yet to have played any top sides.

While Frankston Dolphins will go into its game against Chelsea Heights as favourites, with the Dolphins searching for their third consecutive win.

The Demons are coming off a tough match against East Malvern in Round 2 but are embracing the challenge against another top side, as they search for their first victory of the season.

Hampton Park captain Liam Myatt will be hoping to lead his side to a third consecutive victory this Saturday against Highett. (Rob Carew: 471336)

Noble Park’s Scott McInerney and Berwick’s Jesse Cirulis will be key players when the Bulls and Wickers collide at Pat Wright Oval on Saturday. (Rob Carew: 403696)