Final funds frenzy
In the final throes of the federal election, a flurry of pledged cash has been splashed across Greater Dandenong and Endeavour Hills.
The marginal seat of Bruce held by Labor MP Julian Hill since 2016 has been high on the major parties’ priority list.
Both have called in senior politicians such as Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton to woo voters.
As of early Monday, Labor had promised more than $19 million into Greater Dandenong and
Endeavour Hills, including more than $10 million in the past week.
This includes $5 million to upgrade Dandenong Hospital’s intensive-care unit, $4 million for Santhom Community Hub and $1.6 million for new CCTV cameras in Noble Park and Dandenong.
The Liberal Party has in turn pledged $10 million in the region – its most recent announcement being $1.25 million for Manna4Life charity’s atrisk-youth program.
Several queuing at Dandenong early-voter centre last Tuesday disapproved of the bipartisan splurge.
Voters commonly said cost-of-living and crime were their main issues.
“So much money is being wasted where there shouldn’t be wasted,” said one voter.
“It’ll be good to see a party come along that actually looks after the people and all the politicians are doing is looking after themselves.”
Another voter liked funding for Dandenong
Hospital ICU but not to specific community groups. “All this other stuff is too much”, they said.
Liberal Bruce candidate Zahid Safi meanwhile came under fresh scrutiny over his business record in running NDIS provider services.
Questions from media outlets were unanswered, at the time of going to print.
The final day of voting is Saturday 3 May. For our election coverage, turn to pages 4-7
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. Their feedback 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. that you can now view and tell us what you think.
Visit the Casey Conversation website to view the documents and share your feedback until 15 May 2025.
Casey Community Awards
The 2025 Casey Community Awards winners were announced at a gala celebration event at Bunjil Place on Friday, 11 April.
This year, due to the high calibre of the nominees, two residents took out the top honour of Citizen of the Year.
Anthony Hanna and Antonia Arfaras were named joint Citizens of the Year. Both have contributed greatly to Casey through their volunteering efforts.
Cheer on the Dees at the MCG
Don’t miss your opportunity to cheer on the Melbourne Football Club as they take on Hawthorn on Saturday, 10 May, at the home of football – the MCG. To celebrate Casey Round, residents can access up to 4 free tickets. Come along and show your support for the Dees.
Sign up to the Casey Catch Up e-newsletter by scanning the QR code below and keep up to date on how you can redeem your free tickets.
The annual awards have celebrated community contributions for over two decades by recognising the outstanding individuals and groups in the community in eight categories.
Find out more about the winners by scanning the QR code.
Fire Danger Period
The Fire Danger Period for the City of Casey will end on Thursday 1 May.
If you are considering burning off on your property once the fire restrictions are lifted, you will require a permit from Council. Permits are only valid outside of the CFA declared Fire Danger Period, which is usually between the cooler periods of May to November.
To apply for your permit to burn-off, scan the QR code or visit our website.
Casey Conversations
Provide feedback on a number of consultations currently open on our community engagement platform, Casey Conversations.
• Public Art Policy – your opportunity to help shape the future of public art in Casey.
• Nominate a Significant Tree in Casey – help us add to our current list of significant trees to protect them.
Help shape our new Casey Community Local Law
We are reviewing our Local Law, and you’re invited to have your say and help shape what a new Local Law looks like.
• Online Survey: From Monday 21 April, share your views online and go in the draw to win one of five $200 Westfield vouchers.
• Attend a pop-up: Visit one of our 12 pop-ups being held right across Casey and speak directly with our team. Dates and locations are listed on our Casey Conversations website.
Head to the Casey Conversations website to find out more or scan the QR code.
Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen congratulated all the winners and nominees for their hard work and dedication.
Surge in illegal dumping
By Ava Cashmore
A massive 1,600-plus reports of illegal waste have been logged in Greater Dandenong since 2023, and the authorities are struggling to keep up.
The statistics paint a messy picture.
In Victoria, there were 2,850 reports of illegal dumping and littering in 2023, averaging eight per day.
That number jumped to 3,839 in 2024, equating to 10 daily reports.
By mid-February 2025, there had already been 533 reports across the state, meaning the daily average had climbed to 11.
In Greater Dandenong, there have been 1,655 reports since 2023—more than the Western Metropolitan Region and just behind the Northern Metropolitan Region.
Major clean-ups have included abandoned chemicals at David Barry Logistics in Dandenong South, industrial waste at sites in Keysborough and Bangholme, and the ongoing issue of a tyre stockpile in Dandenong South.
The surge in illegal dumping has caused the EPA to ramp up its enforcement efforts.
In the 2023-24 period alone, the authority prosecuted 51 cases of waste crime.
There are also 24 active investigations, alongside 18 matters before the courts.
The financial burden of illegal dumping is significant, to both taxpayers, private landowners and the council.
Greater Dandenong councillor Rhonda Garad, who is also running as a Greens federal election candidate, is dubbing the illegal dumping as “a problem for everyone.”
“Rubbish dumping is a problem on many levels. On a financial level, it’s a real problem for councils because it’s an uncontrolled cost,” she said.
The unpredictability of illegal dumping means waste collection contractors are forced to respond
on irregular, short notice, leading to exceptional expenses.
“The more rubbish waste costs, the more it gets pushed onto ratepayers. Councils everywhere are having to look at the services they provide and make tough decisions about where to allocate funds,” she said.
Some councils, such as Geelong and Casey, have already cut back on services like library hours and aged care in response to financial pressure.
Beyond the financial toll, illegal dumping affects liveability and aesthetics.
“It really looks terrible,” Cr Garad said. “When I was door-knocking for the last election, almost
invariably the biggest issue residents raised was how horrible the streets looked with all the dumping.”
Dandenong resident, Sue Smith, shared her frustrations.
“The dumped rubbish in Dandenong is not only making our area look terrible, but it’s also a real risk to children and animals who might get hurt by sharp objects or hazardous waste.
“It’s frustrating for those of us who take care to keep our neighbourhood clean.”
However, it isn’t as simple as laziness, or disregard that is causing the surge in illegal dumping.
Cost-of-living pressures are also said to be contributing to the problem. Many offenders dump rubbish illegally because they cannot afford the fees associated with proper disposal.
“People often don’t have the means to hire a trailer, go to a tip, or pay tip fees. Some don’t even have cars,” Cr Garad said.
Stud Road, a well-known dumping hotspot in Dandenong, has seen increased waste due to the high turnover of rental and social housing in the area.
Despite the rise in incidents, penalties remain relatively low.
An individual caught dumping small items like cigarette butts or food packaging faces a $395 fine, which increases to $790 if the litter is dangerous, such as a lit cigarette.
For corporations, the fines are $1,976 for small items and $3,952 for dangerous litter.
Between July 2024 and January 2025, the EPA issued nearly 4,400 infringement notices for littering.
However, where the offender cannot be identified, the cost often falls on the landholder, which makes it a financial hazard for landlords, local councils and state government authorities.
EPA Southern Metropolitan Regional Manager, Viranga Abeywickrema, said “we urge landholders and landlords to be alert to stockpiling on their property, and every Victorian can report illegal dumping where they see it.”
“A photograph or a number plate can help us hold the offender to account,” he said.
As illegal dumping continues to rise, authorities and local councils are suffering mounting pressure to find solutions.
“We need to look at innovative ways that people can responsibly dispose. I think if people have responsible options, they will take it,” Cr Garad said.
Though enforcement efforts are increasing, the challenge of balancing penalties, financial costs, and community well-being remain a pressing concern.
Greater Dandenong Council was contacted for comment on Friday 4 April.
Reports of illegal dumping to be made via EPA’s 24-hour hotline at 1300 372 842.
Councillor’s bid to return council to SECCCA
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Greens councillor Isabella Do has moved to strike-out Greater Dandenong Council’s withdrawal from a regional councils’ climatechange alliance.
After lodging a rescission motion for 28 April, Cr Do said the council’s withdrawal from South East Councils Climate Change Alliance (SECCCA) was “passing the buck under the pretense of cost-savings”.
Cr Do said she felt a “sense of solidarity” with other opposing councillors Phillip Danh and Melinda Yim from the ALP.
“It hit me that all the councillors who voted to stay with SECCCA were all under the age of 30.
“Climate disasters strain public infrastructure, leading to more frequent repairs and upgrades to roads, drainage systems, power lines, and emergency facilities.
“As young leaders we are pushing for proactive climate policies and actions becauwe we’ll face the fallout if action is delayed.” In a split decision this month, councillors
voted to abandon its 12-year membership of the eight-council alliance 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.
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.
Do said SECCCA’s resilience projects, as well as its advocacy, carried “tangible benefits”.
Greater Dandenong, being one of the most disadvantaged council areas, would be disproportionally affected by climate change, she said.
“Climate change does not respect borders.
“Whether or not you believe climate change exists, these (extreme) weather events are happening and the impacts are tremendous.
“Not just to those in Dandenong South where 1 in 25 homes will be uninsurable or one of the residents in Willow Lodge, Bangholme, where their home stood in floodwaters last year.
“Ultimately, everyone ends up paying for it.”
Isabella Do. (431485)
Dandenong resident, Sue King, is frustrated with the piling rubbish in her area. (Ava Cashmore: 473970)
Industrial waste left roadside. (473970)
NEWS Questions raised
By Cam Lucadou-Wells and Ethan Benedicto
Liberal candidate Zahid Safi has conceded his paperwork had been “out-of-date” after questions were raised over his multiple small businesses.
The Age reported Safi owned a series of NDIS and training businesses with Casey addresses, some linked to homeowners having no clue who he was.
It was revealed that two of his operations - one in Merribrook Drive in Clyde and a short-stay accommodation for Willow Support Services in Narre Warren South - were home to two families.
The first family told The Age they were receiving constant mail directed to a Safi business, and the second family was running a small Sri Lankan restuarant next door.
A Liberal source said that Safi had lived in both properties, that they were legitimately linked to his businesses at the time but were now out-of-date.
Until late last year, staff were at the Willow Support Services facility three days a week, the source said.
State opposition leader Brad Battin and Bruce Liberal candidate Zahid Safi at a Dandenong earlyvoter centre on 22 April. (Rob Carew: 473402)
Some Safi-owned businesses have been struck off, including NDIS provider Casey Care Services as recently as late March.
His child-care training provider Inspire Training Australia was deregistered in 2021.
Safi, who is contesting Labor MP Julian Hill in the marginal Bruce electorate, was contacted for comment.
La Trobe Liberal MP Jason Wood and the Liberal Party were also contacted.
The Liberal Party stated to The Age that it was “proud to support a candidate whose family fled the violent conflict in Afghanistan and chose to make Australia his home”.
“Like many people in the electorate of Bruce, Zahid runs his own small business while raising a family.
“Like many small business owners, Zahid acknowledges that his administrative paperwork isn’t always up to date and has taken steps with his accountant to rectify.”
Greens candidate for Bruce, Rhonda Garad, said the Liberals had treated voters with contempt – citing a series of controversies involving Safi during the campaign.
These included Safi’s former campaign manager Andrew McNabb standing down after alleged offensive social-media posts, and a past co-authored Parliamentary submission that outraged the Hazara community.
“It makes me extremely angry as a voter and resident in Bruce,” Garad said.
“Either the Liberal Party hasn’t done its due diligence or they don’t care.”
ALP pledges $5m for hospital ICU upgrade
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Labor has pledged $5 million to upgrade Dandenong Hospital’s intensive care unit (ICU).
The project would modernise the current 14bed ICU, with larger patient cubicles, new private rooms, improved equipment storage, new training spaces for staff.
It would also include an improved assessment centre with additional ensuite bathrooms and secure medication rooms.
According to Labor, the project was nominated as Monash Health’s greatest priority, with con-
cerns about the “suitability” of the ICU’s facilities.
The ICU averaged 212 hours of care per day in October-December 2024, according to official stats. This was down from 265 hours a day in October-December 2023.
Health and Aged Care Minister Mark Butler said the upgrade would deliver “better care and support to critically ill people in South-East Melbourne”.
Isaacs MP Mark Dreyfus said: “Anyone who has ever sat beside a loved one in intensive care knows how critical those moments are.
“That’s why this $5 million upgrade to Dande-
nong Hospital’s ICU is so important — it’s part of Federal Labor’s ongoing work to strengthen our public hospitals, support our healthcare workers and make sure every Australian can get the care they need, when they need it.”
Bruce MP Julian Hill said it demonstrated the Government’s commitment to strengthen the health care system.
During the election campaign, Labor has also pledged extra funding to the Dandenong South Medicare urgent care centre as well as to upgrade headspace youth mental health services in Dandenong.
$1.6m for CCTV, $4m for multicultural centre
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
In a further federal election pledge, Labor – if reelected - has promised $1.6 million for additional CCTVs in Dandenong and Noble Park.
Bruce MP Julian Hill announced that the Government would work with Greater Dandenong counciltodeterminethebestlocationsforthenew cameras.
They would be used for real-time surveillance andevidenceforlawenforcement,andasameans to deter crime, according to the ALP.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe where they live and when they move around the community,“ Hill said.
The funding appears to respond to the council’s election advocacy request for $1.681 million to renew and upgrade Safe City CCTV cameras in Noble Park and Dandenong.
According to the council’s website, more than 270 CCTV cameras have been installed as part of
Safe City since 2009 in order to improve community safety.
The bulk are in Dandenong, Noble ParkandSpringvaleCBDs,withthefocuson“areas of high community use and pedestrian traffic”.
The CCTV is proactively monitored 24-7 by Springvale and Dandenong police, according to the council.
The ALP also announced $4 million for a new multicultural community centre in Dandenong South, if the Government is re-elected.
The Santhom Community Hub and Resource CentrewillhostaSouthIndianmigrationmuseum andlibrariesshowcasingMalayalamliteratureand resources.
It will also host programs for seniors and youth led by the St Thomas Syro-Malabar community from southern India.
On Sunday, Labor MPs Mark Dreyfus and Julian Hill as well as Foreign Affairs Minister Penny
Wong attended the Thomas Syro-Malabar Easter mass.
Dreyfus said the new centre would enable the “fast-growing Syro-Malabar community to celebrate their heritage and share their culture with the wider community”.
HillsaidmanyintheSyro-Malabarcommunity were working in the health system and contributing widely in the community.
“The real magic of modern multicultural Australia happens when we share cultural traditions and histories with each other, and this state-ofthe-art facility will provide a physical space for communitiestoconnect andpreservetraditions.”
Labor’s election commitments for Greater Dandenong and Endeavour Hills tops $17 million so far.
The region includes the long-held Labor seat of Bruce, occupied by Hill on a 5.3 per cent margin.
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.
LABOR COMMUNITY GROUPS
• $4 million for new Santhom Community Hub and Resource Centre in Dandenong South.
• $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’ employmentpathwaysprogramandmanufacturing hub.
SPORTS
• $1millionforupgradedSydneyPargeterpavilion 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 HEALTH
• $5m to upgrade Dandenong Hospital ICU
• Boost the capacity of 12 Urgent Care Clinics including Dandenong.
• Upgrade Headspace centre dubbed Headspace Plus in Dandenong CRIME
• $1.6 million for new CCTV in Noble Park and 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-risk-youth program.
SPORTS
• $350,000 to upgrade Fotheringham Reserve lights for evening training and matches.
• $964,000 upgrades at Greaves Reserve Dandenong
• $700,000toupgradeaplaygroundatRowley Allan Reserve in Keysborough
Early voters pack booths
By Sahar Foladi
Early voters rocked up at the Dandenong Stadium in a strong turnout to cast their votes in the Bruce electorate.
Elderly individuals - a majority pensionersand young small families were first in line as the early voter centre opened on 22 April.
The scene at the Dandenong Stadium almost seemed like a preview of Election Day on 3 May.
A pensioner told Star Journal that he felt left out by the major parties and politicians.
“Both parties, all parties have not considered the pensioners. We’ve paid taxes all our lives and all we get is shit,” he said as he walked towards the car park having just voted.
“Everyone who comes to our country we welcome them, they get everything, we get nothing. We paid taxes-they didn’t. It took me six-months to get my pension.
“We worked our arses off since I was 13.”
Cost of living and increase in crime rates are recurring themes amongst the voters, it has impacted everyone from all walks of lives.
Voters said there didn’t seem to be a viable option to the cost of living situation.
None of the voters said they were attracted to any of the election promises made by the partiesparticularly the two major parties.
One of the early voters was Milan Kostic, who has been living in Greater Dandenong for more than 30 years saying he voted for whoever he believed to be “best for pensioners.”
Aimee Keily stood in the line to vote with her husband and eight-month-old daughter.
She says she had to get off maternity leave earlier than expected because they can’t afford to keep up with the expenses.
“I wanted at least a year- I should’ve gone back five months ago but stretched it to make it another three months.
“I feel most of the times what you hear, what they promise is not actioned, to me it’s like what’s the point? Ms Keily said.
Anthony Dattolino, a pensioner said he just went with his “heart and mind” at the time of voting.
“We can carry a $100 worth of grocery back home in one hand whereas it used to take the two of us to carry it.
“They’re offering all these things now but where are they getting all the money to do it? We’re short of money now.”
Another voter Rodger Tchung said he voted for the Labor party out of habit but also acknowledged the recurring cost-of-living theme won’t be a quick fix by the next government, whoever that may be.
“Everything’s going up through the roof, what can we do?
“Honestly we can’t do anything else, anyone to take over this government will take a long time to
fix this, but they won’t fix it today, next year. Maybe it’ll take four years, you never know.”
So far, the Labor Party has made 19 election promises worth $17 million for the Dandenong region, compared to the Coalition’s five promises worth $10 million.
Both major parties have focused on fixing up sports grounds in the area.
TheLaborpartyhasalsomademoreannouncements to local organisations such as Southern Migrant & Refugee Centre (SMRC) ($1.25m), Centre for Multicultural Youth ($600,000) and Wellsprings for Women ($407,000).
Few voters disapproved the overspending by the two major parties saying “so much money is being wasted where there shouldn’t be wasted.”
Asking about which party they would preference, one responded “none of it.”
“I don’t agree with what they’re doing. Both of the major parties are useless.
“It’ll be good to see a party come along that actually looks after the people and all the politicians are doing is looking after themselves.
“Where they are spending it and directing it with each of the campaign-it’s just wrong.”
Another voter shared the same thought. While he approves of the $5 million pledge by the Labor party for Dandenong Hospital ICU, “all this other stuff is too much” referring to the investments like the $1.5 million to the SMRC.
It seems the voters focuses aren’t only on the two major parties anymore and are seeking other options.
A long-term Labor voter said he intended to
Long lines in Noble Park
By Ava Cashmore
A long, winding line of eager early voters trailed out the door of the Moodemere Scout hall at Noble Park on Thursday 24 April, .
Smiles were scarce, waiting in 25 degree heat, one voter stating he was just “there to avoid the fine.”
Maxine Sankey and Margret Spitiri told Star Journal that their biggest concerns coming into the election was the cost of living crisis and their safety.
“These house invasions and things, they play heavily on my mind because you just never know when you go to bed who might be coming in,” said Maxine.
Another voter, Eroma Whaler is keeping the homeless in mind when she fills out her paper.
“I think finding jobs and homes is a priority,” said Eroma.
“I can see it on top of the streets. When you go around shopping centres, you go around your local neighbourhood, you see people sleeping in cars and people who don’t have homes.”
Andrew Webster was also concerned about employment opportunities.
“I’m unemployed. I think that industries are falling away, unfortunately,” he said.
The majority of signage and volunteers were donned in red, representing the Labor party.
vote for the Labor party, but preferred to vote for an independent as he no longer felt confident in the Albanese Government.
Labor had “abandoned the unions”, but there’s no chance he’d vote for Liberals, he said.
Ayub Muhammad said previously he was open to vote for one of the two major parties but not this time around.
He will instead vote for someone endorsed by the Muslim Votes Matter largely influenced by the war on Gaza at the hands of Israel.
Other long-term Labor (and Liberal) supporters said they would stick with voting for the same parties out of habit.
On the day, Bruce Labor MP Julian Hill was campaigning in Liberal heartland at the Berwick early voter centre.
Meanwhile at Dandenong Stadium, Rhonda Garad for the Greens handed out pamphlets along with supporters from group Muslim Votes Matter. Liberals candidate Zahid Safi was also at the stadium, while Opposition leader Brad Battin spoke to Star Journal.
Mr Battin arrived after visiting Berwick, Cranbourne and Clyde early voter centres saying “the field’s been really good.”
However Greens candidate Matthew Kirwan, standing in Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus’s Isaacs seat, was among the mix, handing
out flyers and speaking with early voters.
“The promise that is really resonating today and resonating with volunteers is putting mental health and dental health into Medicare,” he said.
“People are out very early and I’d say they’re pretty keen for a change.
“Normally you warm up a little bit and the second week gets busier.
“When you get early voters we hope that it’s just more people wanting to get rid of the government quickly so that’s our hope.
“But the reality is people are getting used to early voting and its becoming a norm and I think election day is going to get quieter and quieter.”
The AEC will close booths on Anzac Day this Friday 25 April.
Local early voting centres include:
• Moodemere Scout Hall, 46-56 Moodemere St, Noble Park.
• Akoonah Park Centre, 2 Cardinia Street, Berwick.
• Clyde Public Hall, 30 Railway Road, Clyde.
• 1st Cranbourne Scout Hall, 255-257 South Gippsland Highway, Cranbourne.
• Dandenong Stadium, 270 Stud Road, Dandenong North.
• On Mondays through to Thursdays, centres will be open from 8.30 am – 5.30 pm.
• On Saturday 26 April, centres will be open from 9am – 4pm and from 8.30 am – 6pm on Friday 2 May.
“At Noble Park Primary School, which is just over there, there was a 7 per cent swing to the Greens at the last election. So that’s 5 per cent more than the state average.”
Several voters in line predicted that the election outcome would be close, but that Labor might win.
Though, the general consensus was that it was just far too hot to be standing outside in a long line.
Maxine Sankey and Margret Spitiri with a collection of how-to-vote pamphlets. (Ava Cashmore: 474213)
Eroma Whaler is concerned for the homeless in her area. (474213)
Early voters lined up at Moodemere Scout hall on 24 April.(474213)
Long-term residents of Dandenong, Milan Kostic with his wife while waiting in line to vote. (Sahar Foladi: 473647)
Bruce candidates were eager to influence to voters decision even at the last minute as voters headed inside to vote.(ROB CAREW: 473402)
The Greens candidate Rhonda Garad along with Muslim Votes Matter volunteers who have endorsed her. (473402)
Oppositions leader Brad Battin attended as Zahid Safi worked hard campaigning. (473402)
MEET THE CANDIDATES
Bruce candidates survey
In Bruce, a packed field of eight candidates will contest the seat held by two-term Labor MP Julian Hill by about 5.3 per cent.
Top of the ballot is One Nation candidate Bianca Colecchia, followed by Greens academic and councillor Rhonda Garad and then Hill.
Under his main rivals, Liberal candidate and operations manager Zahid Safi was drawn fifth. Others standing in Bruce are customer service officer Christine Skrobo (Libertarian), director Samuel James Anderson (Trumpet of Patriots), software engineer AndrewLouth(LegaliseCannabisParty)and home maker Wendy Birchall (Family First).
Rhonda Garad - Greens
1. Where do you live, and how long have you lived there?
I live in Dandenong and have raised my four children here. It’s my home and I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.
2. Why did you choose to run for the seat of Bruce?
As a second-term local councillor, I’ve seen firsthand how Bruce has been overlooked because it’s considered a “safe labor seat.” Neighbouring electorates get the funding and attention, while our community misses out. I’m running to change that.
3. Why did you choose to join your party?
I joined the Greens because they put people and communities first—not big corporations. They stand for fairness and believe everyone should have access to essential services like free, highquality healthcare and education in a wealthy country like Australia.
4. What is your number one policy to reduce the cost of living for the people of Bruce? We’re pushing for bold action—breaking up the supermarket duopoly to lower food prices, stopping unlimited rent hikes, and making housing more affordable. Our no-deposit first-home buyer scheme and cheaper mortgage options will help renters become owners. We’ll also invest directly in public and affordable housing—someWe’re the only party with real solutions: a no-deposit home buyer scheme, direct public and affordable housing investment, and fairer tax rules.
belief that everyone deserves a fair chance at life. Politics is not a team game, but government has to be, so I don’t believe in parties of protest. I’m prepared to do the hard work of being our community’s voice in a party of government and actu-
als. Train more tradies with Free TAFE, getting more people working in residential construction with the $10,000 incentive payment for apprentices. Cutting red tape in planning reforms. Crackdown on foreign investors. Migration is falling, which will also have a small impact. Christine Skrobo - Libertarians
1. Where do you live, and how long have you lived there?
I live in Narre Warren South and I have lived here for almost all my life.
2. Why did you choose to run for the seat of Bruce?
Bruce is where I grew up, where I went to school and where I worked my first jobs. I genuinely care about this area and the people living here. Bruce deserves a representative who will defend their freedoms, listen to their concerns and advocate for them in parliament.
3. Why did you choose to join your party? I joined the Libertarian Party because they are the only party that defends the rights and freedoms of individuals every single time. They never stray from their principles and all their elected members both past and current, have never voted to decrease individual liberty or increase tax.
4. What is your number one policy to reduce the cost of living for the people of Bruce?
The Libertarian Party has a policy to raise the income tax-free threshold from $18,200 to $50,000. This will allow Australians to keep more of their hard-earned money and provide genuine cost-of-
5. Why are you the best candidate for Bruce?
I am the best candidate for Bruce as I am committed to advocating for policies that will improve the lives of every single person living in Bruce. I will fight so that people living in Bruce can keep more of their money and make decisions for their own lives and families without government inter-
6. Can you tell us about your life outside of
Outside of my studies and work, I enjoy spending time with loved ones, music and getting outdoors - especially to beautiful local spots like Lysterfield
7. What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing the Bruce electorate?
1 – High cost of living
2 – Housing affordability
3 – Government interference in personal lives
Zahid Safi - Liberal Party. (Supplied)
Christine Skrobo - Libertarian Party. (Supplied)
Julian Hill MP - Labor Party. (Gary Sissons: 384998)
Bianca Colecchia - One Nation. (Supplied)
Wendy Birchall - Family First Party. (Supplied)
Rhonda Garad - Greens. (Gary Sissons: 432339)
MEET THE CANDIDATES
8 Local question on housing affordability:
As a young person who feels the Australian dream of home ownership is so far out of reach, driving down house prices and the cost of rent is extremely important to me. The only way to achieve this is to ensure more housing is being built by removing unnecessary restrictions, simplifying planning approvals and re-zoning.
Zahid Safi - Liberal Party
1. Where do you live and how long have you lived there?
I live in Endeavour Hills and have done so for two years, prior to this I’ve lived Narre Warren.
2. Why did you choose to run for the seat of Bruce?
I’m running for parliament because I believe we need change to get Australia back on track. We can’t afford to continue on our current path. Interest rates, power bills, fuel, food, insurance, are all more expensive. Over the past three years of this Labor Government, interest rates have gone up 12 times, costing a family with an averagesized mortgage $50,000 in interest they’ll never get back. I want to be part of a Dutton Government that is focused on getting Australia back on track – investing in local community infrastructure, making housing more affordable, energy cheaper, our communities safer, and importantly to me, boosting Medicare and health services.
3. Why did you choose to join your party?
I joined the party because it reflects the values, I deeply believe in strong family values, freedom of religion, and the freedom to associate without fear or restriction.
4. What is your number one policy to reduce the cost of living for the people of Bruce?
The Liberal’s policy to lower taxes for all Australians is going to deliver real cost of living relief, now. This includes halving the fuel tax, meaning every litre of petrol and diesel will be 25 cents cheaper at the bowser, as soon as we come to government. We are also delivering tax relief that will see eligible Australians earning up to $144,000 receive up to $1,200 in tax relief when they lodge their tax return for the upcoming financial year. This will support 79,790 taxpayers in Bruce, which is equal to 92% of tax payers locally.
5. Why are you the best candidate for Bruce? I’m the best candidate for Bruce because I understand what our community is going through right now. I own and operate a business and I’m raising a family with six children. Families are suffering under increasing cost of living pressures and Labor’s bulk billing crisis. I’m focused on fixing the healthcare crisis and improving access to mental health services, and I want to see real action to address cost of living pressure – which only the Liberal plan will do.
6. Can you tell us about your life outside of work?
Outside of work, I spend most of my time with my kids it’s the most rewarding part of my day. I also enjoy reading, staying involved in community initiatives, and going for regular jogs to keep fit and clear my mind.
7. What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing the Bruce electorate? The biggest issues facing our community is addressing Labor’s cost of living crisis, building affordable homes, and boosting health and Medicare services.
8. Local question on housing affordability: We have a comprehensive plan to make housing more affordable. This includes: Boosting supply: We will invest in water, sewerage and road infrastructure needed to unlock 500,000 new homes. Easing demand: We will introduce a two-year ban on foreign investors and temporary residents buying existing property and reduce migration from Labor’s current record levels. Assisting first home buyers: We will offer the choice of using up to $50,000 of your super towards a deposit. And we will change lending rules to help young Australians access a mortgage. Supporting construction: We will increase apprentices and trainees to help build more homes and deregister the lawless CFMEU. Low interest rates: We will deliver a strong economy with lower inflation that reduces pressure on interest rates. This plan will build more homes and ensure that young Australians are prioritised.
Wendy Birchall - Family First
1. Where do you live and how long have you lived there?
I have lived in this area for most of my adult life.
2. Why did you choose to run for the seat of Bruce?
Politicians have created a cost of living crisis through net zero policies, they are confusing our children about their gender, and the government is putting pressure on parents’ rights to educate their children at a faith-based school of their choice.
3. Why did you choose to join your party?
A team is far more effective than being an independent. Family First believes strong families cre-
ate a strong nation and the more family-focussed MPs we can get into Parliament, the more we can improve life for mums and dads raising the next generation.
4. What is your number one policy to reduce the cost of living for the people of Bruce?
Cut power prices. Australia must urgently abandon net zero, the Paris accord and the rollout of windmills and solar factories. This is driving up the cost of electricity and, therefore, the cost of everything for no good reason. We must return urgently to affordable and reliable sources of power generation, such as Victoria’s abundant coal and gas. If China, India and the US decide to go to zero emissions over time, then Australia could gradually transition to nuclear energy.
5. Why are you the best candidate for Bruce?
Because I will fight for a return to affordable electricity, for parents to educate their kids free from government’s imposing LGBTIQA+ influencers, fight to allow faith-based schools the freedom to employ staff that share their values, and I will fight to get biological males out of girl’s and women’s sports and private spaces.
6. Can you tell us about your life outside of work?
I am married with children and grandchildren; I help look after grandchildren so their parents can go to work, in the hope they may one day be able to buy their own homes the way we were able to.
7. What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing the Bruce electorate?
Cost of living, lack of housing, government debt and overtaxation.
8. Local question on housing affordability: Reduce immigration so supply can catch up with demand, and reduce red tape and unnecessary fees and taxes.
Bianca Colecchia - One Nation
1. Where do you live and how long have you lived there?
Unfortunately, I live outside of the electorate, but many MPs are elected while residing outside of the boundaries of their electorates. I have a deep connection to this city and this community, and that’s what matters. I landed in Melbourne when I came with just 1,000 euros from Italy, with little English, 8 years ago, and the division of Bruce is a community I will be proud to fight for and for which I renounced my Italian citizenship.
2. Why did you choose to run for the seat of Bruce?
Labor has taken its people for granted for too long. Australian families are struggling to make ends meet, crime is on the rise, and our communities are being divided by identity politics. Let’s look at housing: the cities of Casey and Greater Dandenong, which take up most of the electorate, have experienced an increase in working homelessness of 9% and 22% respectively, just in the last few years, ranking 1st and
5th in Victoria’s top 20 for homelessness among employed people.
I want to bring back common sense, fight for everyday Australians, and give Bruce the strong, unapologetic representation it deserves.
3. Why did you choose to join your party?
I joined One Nation because I believe in putting Australia—and Australians—first, and I say this as a migrant who has renounced her dual citizenship to stand here as a candidate.
One Nation stands for policies that prioritise our people, defend our freedoms, and restore pride in our country. I wanted to be part of a movement that isn’t afraid to challenge the status quo and that fights for working-class families, small businesses, and the Australian way of life.
4. What is your number one policy to reduce the cost of living for the people of Bruce?
One of our main policies, which will bring tangible benefits to the people in delivering affordable housing and free up properties for Aussies, is to drastically reduce immigration numbers, which will also relieve pressure on infrastructure and essential services.
In addition, our energy policy will reduce electricity bills by 20% immediately by incentivising coal and gas in the short term and investing in nuclear for the future, as many European countries have done successfully.
5. Why are you the best candidate for Bruce?
As a proud immigrant who became Australian by choice, I understand both the privilege and responsibility of being Australian. I’m not a career
politician, I’m someone who has lived through the challenges of loss, of starting over in a new country from scratch, and building a future. Australia has given me so much, and now, in this time of need, it is time for me to do all I can to save the country I am incredibly lucky to call home. I’m not afraid to speak up when something is wrong. I’ll be a strong, grassroots advocate who listens, acts, and puts the people of Bruce first.
6. Can you tell us about your life outside of work?
I have a husky puppy named Milo, who keeps me on my toes! I enjoy travelling and experiencing new cultures, spending time outdoors, riding my motorbike, drinking coffee, and reading.
7. What do you believe are the three biggest issues facing the Bruce electorate?
• Cost of Living
• Overdevelopment & Infrastructure Strain
• Youth Crime & Community Safety
8. Local question on housing affordability: Capping migration to reduce pressure on the housing market—we simply cannot build fast enough to keep up with current population growth.
Putting Australians first - why do refugees get free full rent, wifi and Centrelink, when Aussies are going homeless? Aussies are not getting a fair treatment.
A five-year moratorium on charging GST on materials for new homes Stop foreign ownership.
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Bruce.
FOCUS ON … ANZAC DAY
Dandenong remembers
By Sahar Foladi
Communities, families, children, youth and ex-service men and their families attended the ANZAC day ceremony at large in Dandenong.
The sun shined down at the gathering for the ANZAC Day ceremony to pay their respects to those servicemen and women who had fallen, led by president of the Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL, Lance McDermott as some newcomers looked on interestingly.
Secretary of the Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL, Mark Osborne says participation from diverse communities are very important and great to see at a day like this.
“It’s fantastic to see that many people turned up for this occasion for someone like myself that our family’s been here 200 years was very important to us.
“I understand that there are other parts of the world where you have to be fearful of the military and the police and we certainly want to get across that’s not the case here.
“The military and police work for the people, not against the people and hopefully for those people that have just arrived, they’re starting to get an understanding of that.
“It’s terrific to see so many people from so many different parts of the world too. It’s great that we are all Australians together, regardless of where you originally came from. We know that we have a safe and beautiful country here and we celebrate that on a day like today.”
Different groups such as the Keysborough Turkish Islamic and Cultural Centre, Greek Orthodox Community in Dandenong and Carrum Downs Pathfinder Club attended to pay their respects on this day.
In an amazing and heart-touching move, Abdul Ramazan from Matrix Rugs in Dandenong Plaza proudly laid down a framed rug which depicted the back of an Australian soldier with the Australian flag in its hand.
The frame included a writing that said, ‘Present from the Australian Hazaras.’
Mr Ramazan said it’s important for him to give back to the country whom he considers his own nation.
The image, painted on a rug will be donated to the Dandenong RSL along with other two art pieces.
“I love arts, I love the Australian community, so I felt the need to do something and thought of this small gesture.”
The event was also attended by State MP’s Gabrielle Williams, South-Eastern Metropolitan Liberal MP Ann-Marie Hermans, Mulgrave MP Eden Foster as well as members of the Greater Dandenong Council, mayor Jim Memeti joined by his colleagues Melinda Yim, Sean O’Reilly, Alice Phuong and Loi Truong.
Ms Hermans says the Dandenong ceremony is well attended with increased engagement from the diverse communities in the area.
“It’s wonderful to be able to be here with exservice men and women and for those who are
also remembering family. This is a very, very important time for our community and I’m so proud of our community because so many people have attended. It’s just wonderful and the whole service was beautiful.
“There’s a lot of engagement from a number of multicultural groups that come here to also remember their soldiers that have also died and the fact that they are so privileged and thankful to be Australian and to live in this nation.”
What was also evident was the increased participation of children as they laid down the wreaths at the Pillars of Freedom.
Mr Osborne says the youth have always tried to be inclusive of the youth and children to take part in ANZAC Day ceremony.
“Well, it tells me that the future is safe.
“I’ve been doing quite few talks at different schools in the last few days and I’ve been very impressed with the children of all ages that I
have come across.
“If that’s a representation of what the youth of today is, then we’re going to have an even better country down the track.”
Endeavour Hills proud to honour fallen
By Ava Cashmore
Members of the Endeavour Hills community gathered to commemorate ANZAC day on Thursday April 24, with a small service in front of the Endeavour Hills shopping centre.
Despite the windy conditions, all seats were filled by MPs, students, volunteers and members of the Greater Dandenong Rotary and Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL clubs.
John Cook Primary school captains, Mary Ballis and Yasmeen Nawroz, were well versed in the importance of keeping the ANZAC spirit alive.
“It is important to remember the soldiers who fought the war,” said Mary.
Yasmeen said “I came today so I would never forget the soldiers and pay respect to them.”
They each dutifully handed poppies to each of the attendees at the service.
Casey mayor Stefan Koomen will be attending a total of three ANZAC services, but has made sure council is represented at every one.
“We’ve got councillors at every service, across every municipality, from Tooradin to Cranbourne to Berwick to the larger ceremony at Bunjil Place.
“We take it very seriously. It’s a very important day for our community and for our councillors.”
All parties laid a wreath, or a red poppy, in honour of the fallen soldiers.
The service concluded with volunteer, Alistair Wright, playing Amazing Grace on the bag pipes.
The ex-president of the Dandenong-Cranbourne RSL John Wells also attended the ceremony saying he’s been keeping busy working to write books.
City of Greater Dandenong Council mayor Jim Memeti with councillors MElinda Yim, Sean O’Reilly, Alice Phuong and Loi Truong. (Sahar Foladi: 474243)
Abdul Ramazan from Matrix Rugs presented and donated this rug frame on behalf of Australian Hazaras. (474243)
Members of the Keysborough Turkish Islamic and Cultural Centre. (474243)
John Cook Primary School captains, Mary Ballis and Yasmeen Narwroz. (Ava Cashmore: 474108)
Member for Narre Warren North, Belinda Wilson, centre, with students Yazmeen and Mary, has a special connection to the service, having had her own two grandfathers serve. (474108)
Wreaths ready to be laid at the Endeavour Hills ANZAC service. (Ava Cashmore: 474108)
Making the best of a bad day
One of the appeals of an Asian holiday is an almost obligatory day trip to an island, even if the place you are staying at is actually on an island.
Such is the case in Bali where the islands of Nusa Penida, Lembongan and the Gillies are only a relatively short distance away.
Our holiday resort in Candidasa offered a great view of Nusa Penida so after several days of fine weather, we decide to book a day trip which would incorporate transfers from our resort to the boat, passage to the island, swimming with manta rays, lunch and some sight-seeing on the island – it sounded wonderful.
However, the best laid plans do often go astray and if there is one thing you should realise, never bank on the weather.
The day we booked, the weather was fine and hot, and our anticipation for the following day was high.
However, waking up on our trip day, we were confronted by rain and winds and rather than letting common sense prevail, we decided that “things might be better on the island” and went ahead.
Right from the outset, we should have realised this wasn’t going to be our day.
The man we booked with, Smiley, rang to apologise that he wouldn’t be able to be our guide as the winds had brought down trees near his house and he was sending his son, Putu along instead.
It rained the entire trip to the boat, a howling gale greeted us at the port and Putu was nowhere to be found at first but once located he and his girlfriend, who had never been to Penida, ushered us onto the boat and to our covered seats. This was Putu’s first time as a tour guide.
Despite the weather and choppy seas, the journey to Penida wasn’t too bad and things improved slightly when we arrived - but not for long. After we were transferred to the dive centre/resort for the mantra ray boat we were told the seas were too rough but we could go snorkelling near Nusa Lembongan.
Not ideal but we thought “OK let’s go” – that was until we saw the boat.
It was about seven metres long, only had a cover over the driver and about 20 people were being crammed on board. Add to that choppy water, driving rain and no shelter.
One look at my wife and I said “we’re not going on this”.
While disembarking, a wave lifted the back of the boat and I immediately lost my footing and fell backways into the water, only just managing to keep our backpack with our phones and wallets out of the briny.
I was drenched.
Fortunately, I had packed another T-shirt and after scrounging around the dive centre/resort, I found a towel and proceeded to dry myself as best I could, having to suffer the indignity of wearing wet shorts.
A phone call to Putu, via his dad, saw them return to pick us up – totally not on the planned schedule.
However, all was not lost and they suggested we head to some of the more famed tourist locations on Penida.
This is where our day started to come good.
Not only did we get to appreciate the skill of our driver negotiating roads that were essentially single lane being shared by multiple vehicles in both directions, but we saw a lot of the island’s interior, passing small villages, seeing agape farms providing the basic ingredient for tequila, and the eastern coastline featuring some fantastic scenery.
One of the stops was Broken Beach, where boats normally take people to see the manta rays off the coastline.
The seas were boiling and we completely understood why they had cancelled the trip.
It was fascinating to see so many tourists queuing up to have their guides take photos of them in key vantage spots.
The next stop was even more spectacular –Kelingking Beach – where a virtual goat track takes you from a cliff hundreds of metres above the beach to the water, if you are game or fit
enough.
What made this more challenging was quasicyclonic winds (actually the tail end of a cyclone that was near Australia) driving people to seek shelter wherever.
However, the sky cleared, allowing us to get some great shots of the headline and coast.
Having seen these attractions and feeling a little drier, we stopped for lunch (part of the package) before heading back to the port.
Arriving ahead of schedule, we had time to talk to Putu and his girlfriend over a few decent cocktails.
Another choppy boat trip back to Bali and then onto Smiley’s restaurant to sort things out.
He apologised profusely about the day and how it didn’t work out as planned and reduced the price while offering us free drinks.
The food at his restaurant (Wayung) was excellent and his hospitality and company was great way to end a mixed bag of a day.
Making the best of bad situation adds to the challenges of travelling and turning a negative into a positive makes it even more rewarding.
Just check the weather before you book anything.
BOB ANTHONY
The spectacular east coast of Nusa Penida near Kelingking Beach.
Broken Beach at Nusa Penida.
Kelingking Beach.
Not a great day for a boat trip.
Boarding the boat to Nusa Penida in a howling wind. (Bob Anthony)
The Angel Billabong near Broken Beach on Nusa Penida off Bali.
Cairo and the call of the Nile
The newest Nile River ship in the Viking family is almost ready to take its place in the fleet looking after guests who seek adventure on the magnificent Nile River in 2025.
The Viking Amun was ‘floated out’ earlier this month, marking a major construction milestone and the first time the ship has touched water.
It is due to sail in September 2025 and will join the company’s growing fleet of state-of-the-art ships for the Nile River and will sail the cruise lines iconic 12-day Pharaohs and Pyramids itinerary.
Viking CEO and chairman, Torstein Hagen said they were “very proud of our growing fleet in Egypt, which we consider to be by far the most elegant vessels on the Nile”.
“Egypt is one of the world’s most captivating destinations, and we look forward to introducing even more curious travelers to this extraordinary region in the coming years,” he said.
It has been said of Egypt’s exhilarating capital, “he who has not seen Cairo has not seen the world”.
During the 12-day Pharaohs and Pyramids itinerary, guests begin with a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo, where they can visit iconic sites including the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, or the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Guests then fly to Luxor, where they visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding a river ship for an eight-day roundtrip cruise on the Nile River, featuring visits to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tomb of Tutankhamen in the Valley of the Kings.
Also included are excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan, and a visit to a colourful Nubian village, where guests can experience a traditional elementary school.
The journey concludes with a flight back to Cairo for a final night in the ancient city.
Hosting only 82 guests in 41 staterooms, Viking Amun is inspired by the company’s award-winning river and ocean ships, with the signature Scandinavian design for which the ships are known.
An identical sister ship to the Viking Osiris, Aton, Sobek and the Hathor, the Amun features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace.
Other ships in Viking’s Egypt fleet include the Viking Ra and the MS Antares.
In addition to the Amun, the company plans to welcome five new ships in Egypt in the next two years, which will bring the fleet to 12 vessels on the Nile River by 2027.
The traditional float-out ceremony took place at Massara shipyard in Cairo and is significant because it marks the ship moving into its final stage of construction.
She will now be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out.
For more information, please visit www.viking. com or call 138 747.
The Viking Amun will join the company’s growing fleet of state-of-the-art ships for the Nile River.
Staff readying the Viking Amun to join its sister ships on the Nile.
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NEWS
Jailed over drug, groceries
by Cam Lucadou-Wells
A Springvale problem gambler has been jailed after being found with more than $114,000 of stolen groceries from a shoplifting racket and a commercial quantity of heroin.
Thi Vo, 48, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to commercial drug trafficking, knowingly dealing with the proceeds of crime as well as offering a bribe to a police officer.
In response to large-scale shoplifiting, Coles Supermarkets hired private investigators to track a known recidivist thief in 2022.
Vo, a sole parent of three, was seen receiving stolen bags of groceries and tins of baby formula and other items from the thief and his associates on multiple occasions.
In October 2022, Vo was intercepted by police on Balmoral Avenue Springvale with a handbag filled with $4423 in cash, $77,000 cash in the driver’s side footwell and $1185 of health and beauty products in a bag in the car boot.
Vo attempted to bribe a police officer with the discovered $81,423 cash.
“You have money found in my car. You let me go and you can have it.
“You let me go. You have.”
More than $113,000 of stolen goods including health and beauty products, clothing and household items in the back rooms, shed and garage of Vo’s parent’s home in Springvale.
Police also seized seven wrapped blocks of heroin weighing 227 grams as well as foils and bags of MDMA, methylamphetamine, ketamine and heroin.
The total amount of pure heroin was about 192 grams – nearly four times the threshold for commercial trafficking.
In a police interview, Vo said she’d paid a homeless man $200 for the bag of vitamins, health and beauty products in her car.
Denying she knew the goods were stolen, she had met him several times and sold the items to
Planting in remembrance
By Sahar Foladi
A passionate yet humble Endeavour Hills gardening enthusiast Thi Lien Phan has secured the Best First Year award at the Victoria in Bloom competition 2024-25.
Ms Phan gives credit to her parents who were gardening enthusiasts themselves and taught her the tips and tricks of gardening so she can work independently, before both passed away.
Now her garden has become a place to remember her parents and where she prays for them.
“In my country Vietnam, my parents had a big garden so when they came here they were sad because there were no garden or flowers.
“They asked me why don’t we plant?
“I said this is government housing. Look around none of the house have any flowers.
“But my mum said it’s the government’s house but we can make the house very beautiful.
“At that time I was young, my parents told me come have a look so you can learn and later you can plant for yourself,” she said.
“Sometimes I pray for my parents and remember my parents because of them I know how to do gardening and continue it.”
The trio would plant flowers, maintain their garden with their hard work paid off by compliments from visitors.
She was taught to water the plants early in the morning during summer before the sun shines on the flowers to ensure the water is fully absorbed before it evaporates due to heat and wind.
Ms Phan, now in her 70s, is a single mother of three children and who sponsored her parents to Australia to help care for her son with autism, psoriasis and diabetes.
Now, she passes on her wealth of knowledge about flowers and gardening down to her daughters who question their mother on the topic.
“Sometimes they come home asking questions about something they’re not sure of or don’t know and because I learnt from my mum, I teach them as well.”
She has lived in her Endeavour Hills residence for 36 years, now full of memories.
She never imagined to be awarded for something she loves to do so passionately.
“I am very happy because it’s the first time I got appreciation or an award from Housing Victoria.
“I never believed that I can get an award.”
The competition recognises and rewards the great works of the likes of Ms Phan living in public and or community housing, a thankful gesture for their hard work caring and maintaining beautiful gardens.
Her passion has also unlocked another rewarding act - a formation of church goers who take turns to arrange flowers for the altar.
Flower arrangements for the Church is something Ms Phan says she has been doing for three decades after she found out the church had no flowers placed on the altar.
Now, a group of five take weekly turns to do the job.
Ms Phan has a variety of different flowers de-
others including Springvale markets to pay off her gambling debts.
Vo claimed the $77,000 cash was lent by a friend to help her pay for her son’s house. The other cash was from selling her house, and she was on the way to depositing it at the bank.
She denied the drugs were hers, saying “my friend f***ed me up”.
In sentencing on 14 April, judge Douglas Trapnell said Vo’s offending was mid-range in seriousness for those charges.
He noted there was no evidence that Vo physically trafficked heroin.
“Clearly, financial gain was the motivation for most of your offending conduct, although, I accept you were not living an extravagant or grandiose lifestyle as a consequence.”
Vo had been running a restaurant up until Covid lockdowns forced its closure in 2020.
After that, she had been using a variety of drugs and alcohol for 18 months before her arrest
– a habit that cost her up to $700 a week.
Judge Trapnell said Vo’s $100,000 in debts to loan sharks helped explain her offending, but didn’t excuse it.
Her previous offences such as theft, money laundering, obtaining property by deception and assault with a weapon dated from 1997.
Her sons described her as a loving person who “fought to become the best mother you can be”, attributing her gambling and substance problems to frequent domestic violence in the past.
Vo was regretful about her offending’s impact on her family, but didn’t show genuine victim empathy or insight into the impact on the community at large, Judge Trapnell found.
Despite some recent counselling, her rehabilitation prospects were “somewhat guarded”.
Vo was jailed for five years and eight months – and eligible for parole after three-and-a-half years. She has already served 290 days in presentence detention.
‘Knowledge is power’ at self-advocacy class
By Sahar Foladi
A Women’s Empowerment program developed for all, with no barriers has been well received in Dandenong
Operated and managed by ADEC, an NDIS provider, the WE program is for disadvantaged women from culturally and linguistically diverse communities within Greater Dandenong.
The not-for-profit organisation has been running the capacity-building program for years, welcoming all female participants.
It’s developed to enhance social cohesion, build strong connections and to teach self-advocacy in a fun and relaxed environment.
Rachel Westhorpe, a capability building officer who runs WE, says it focuses on boosting the women’s knowledge to self-protect and advocate for themselves.
“We consulted with participants and we identified there a definite gap and need for empowering women. That’s why we developed the program based off the needs of the community.
“Quite a few have said they can’t advocate for themselves and their families.
“Knowledge is power, so this is empowering them with the knowledge to defend themselves if an issue arose, (such as) financial wellbeing.”
Participants enjoyed self-defence classes as well as listened to speakers from crucial organisations.
They learnt that Good Shepherd offers nointerest loans in case of financial strains at the time of a cost of living and rental crisis.
“It’s also about shared experiences so they shared what they do and what financial wellbeing means for them.
“It’s wonderful to see them sharing because they may have felt vulnerable and alone so they are learning from each other.
“It’s been a very important thing and we’ve seen this quite a lot which is rewarding.”
The seven week program has also covered
breast screening, mental health discussions, legal assistance, employment information, information on scams and Services Australia and art therapy.
The art therapy turned out to be emotional to some as they opened up about their experiences.
“It was beautiful to see people who didn’t know each other a few weeks ago to provide support,” Ms Westhorpe said.
After a break over the school holidays, the WE program resumed for term 2 on Wednesday 23 April. Term 3 starts on 23 July-3 September and term 4 on 8 October-19 November. It has received a great feedback from the participants with many of them coming back to term 2 for more.
Ms Westhorpe says they will try to modify WE so the re-visiting participants can learn something new each time.
“We’re always listening to the participants’ feedback at the end of the programs each term to identify where they really enjoyed certain things, how we can do more and adapt the programs to their liking.
“We’re open to suggestions because this program is for them.”
We workshops run every Wednesdays from 10.30am until 12.30pm at the Paddy O’Donoghue Centre Noble Park.
pending on the season, currently Begonia, red and green dragon flowers, Christmas cactus and Begonia Foliosa can be found.
A beautiful two coloured Christmas Cactus shown by the planter Thi Lien Phan. (473401)
Ms Phan looks onto her Orange Begonia flower. (Rob carew: 473401)
Diverse and interesting garden beds. Ms Phan works hard to maintain it all.
Thi Lien with Red Dragon and Green Dragon flowers. (473401)
The Women’s Empowerment program ran by ADEC covers a whole range of events to build knowledge and awareness.
A group photo of graduates from the Term 1 of the Women’s Empowerment program. (Supplied)
Keep local news strong!
Dear readers,
This federal election, more than 240 independent local newspapers across Australia will do what tech giants and capital city media won’t - shine a light on the issues that matter to your town, your family, your future.
Our journalists live in your communities.
They tell your stories, champion your voices, and celebrate what makes your region unique.
But while we work hard to inform anduplift regional Australians, federal government advertising spend in local news has dropped significantly.
Instead, millions are funnelled to tech giants like Google and Facebook — platforms that don’t employ local journalists, don’t publish local stories, and are often home to misinformation and unchecked content.
We’re not asking for more spending.
We’re simply asking for fairness - for regional communities to get their fair share.
In fact, while the government continues to pour its advertising funds into digital and metro platforms, it recently announced just $3 million per year over two years of advertising spend in regional newspapers through the News Map program — a tiny fraction of what was historically spent and far less than what goes to social and digital media.
That money still hasn’tbeen delivered. And even if it is, it falls well short of what’s needed to ensure local news survives and thrives.
Meanwhile, our local newsrooms remain dedicated to reporting during fires, floods, and emergencies; holding councils, candidates, and institutions accountable; covering school events, sports, and community milestones.
Providing accurate, fact-checked journalism — not clickbait or conspiracy theories.
We are the first to show up when your community needs a voice. But we’re being shut out of the conversation.
The Victorian Government has already taken action, mandating at least one page per week of advertising in every local paper - a smart, simple policy that helps protect local jobs, journalism, and democracy.
Now it’s time for Canberra to do the same.
Our independent papers employ hundreds of journalists and publish tens of thousands of stories each year. We hold local candidates to account and ensure every voice has a platform.
This election, stand with local news. Stand with your community. Ask your candidates:
Will you commit to fair, equitable funding for local news? Will you ensure regional voices are not left behind?
Because when you support local journalism, you support a stronger, more connected Australia.
Andrew Schreyer President, CPA
NEWS Roaring back to life
By Violet Li
A Cranbourne racer is returning to one of Australia’s most beloved historic motor racing events next month, marking nearly 30 years on the track.
Phillip Barrow will race his family heirloom 1955 FJ Holden, against other historic cars of its era in the N Category at the Historic Winton.
This category sees the likes of Holdens, Mini, Cortinas, Mustangs and even Chargers race.
Since its inception in 1977, Historic Winton has become a celebration of vintage and classic racing cars, motorcycles, and sidecars, attracting fanfares from across the country.
Phillip won the Car of the Meet at the event in 2019-a big moment, but for a true enthusiast like him, the real highlight was racing a Ford Falcon door handle to door handle all weekend.
“And we didn’t touch,” he recalled.
This year, he’s confident of another triumph.
“I started racing in 1998. That was when I first took over the car from my dad. Dad retired from racing that year,” Phillip retraced the origin of his racing roots.
Racing runs in Phillip’s family, and it’s his turn—his brother isn’t interested. Next in line could be Phillip’s son, already obsessed with Formula One, but still too young for a licence.
The 70-year-old FJ Holden is now patiently waiting for her next race. She’s all Phillip talks about.
“It’s got all the original parts in it that have all been modified,” Phillip said.
“On certain tracks, it can outperform some of the cars made in 1972 with a 1955 model car. She never ceases to do amaze. It’s only got three gears. It’s got very small brakes. They’re drum brakes. That’s all that stops the car.
“Up until two years ago, it still had the original seat out of it, but they told me with all the new safety regulations that I have to run the new seats.”
The 1955 girl sports a shiny Toyota Yellow Green, a specific colour code used by Toyota for some of their vehicles, but at the local paint shop,
LOOKING BACK
100 years ago
30 April 1925
ANZAC DAY
To commemorate Anzac Day, a combined church service was held in the Dandenong Town Hall. The public officers and banks were closed all day, and some business places were also closed, while other allowed their employees off to attend the service, but many carried on as usual. There was a good attendance at the service, the gathering including a number of returned men in uniform and mufti, also relatives of the fallen and returned soldiers. The Rev. E. G. Veal unveiled the honor board in the hall, and the Hymn”O God, Our Help” was sung. After Rev Veal gave an address, the congregation faced the honor board and stood in silence for two minutes. The National Anthem was then sung, and the service ended.
50 years ago
30 April 1975
ONE-WAY ‘READY SOON…’
Dandenong’s one-way traffic plan for Thomas
BUSINESS PROFILE
the colour is known as ABES FJ, just like her number plate, named after Phillip’s father.
Many racers race in multiple cars. Phillip races with only one car. He bought another car before he got married, and then finished it and sold it. That was twenty years ago.
“I am not that rich,” he joked.
“I just really love what I have. It’s awesome to drive. People love it. We’ve got a group of guys coming down to Winton from Sydney. They’re all fans of my dad. They followed the car for sixty years.
“They used to show up no matter where you raced in the country. So, whether it be South Australia, Queensland, Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales, at least one of them shows up.
“This will probably be the last time they last time they come to an event because they’re all getting too old.”
St. will be operating within three months. For sometime Dandenong Council workmen and subcontractors have been working on a centre median dividing Thomas St as part of the one-way traffic project. The Deputy City Engineer, Mr Noel Bailey told the Journal: “Traffic in Thomas St, will proceed up one way from the intersection of Foster St. to Walker St. And Foster St from the highway to the roundabout will also be one way, as well as the section of Thomas St. behind the squash courts.”
20 years ago
2 May 2005
G-G UNVEILS VIETNAM WAR MEMORIAL
The Governor-General. Major General Michael Jeffery, unveiled the Vietnam War Memorial outside the Dandenong RSL in front of hundreds of people last Saturday. The memorial is the inspiration of Footscray businessman and former South Vietnamese Army soldier Andy Huu Nguyen, who teamed up with former Vietnam veteran and Dandenong RSL secretary John Wells to raise $126,000 to build the
By Abdurrahman Sahin, imam at Keysborough Turkish Islamic & Cultural Centre
Life isn’t always filled with the beauty we desire.
What does it feel like driving a vintage race car? Phillip gave out his answers.
“You just can’t drive a car like this on the street and drive flat out,” he said.
“The feel of the grip, the power, the noise, the smells. You don’t get that from driving a road car.
“It all paints a picture, and all your senses are aroused by it.
“Most race cars, the brakes don’t work when they’re cold. You gotta warm them up before they work. You feel everything the car is doing while you drive it. They give you lots of feedback. In a road car, you feel nothing because they’re all designed so that you don’t feel any.”
The last feedback Phillip received was that the 1955 girl was happy.
The 48th Historic Winton is to be held on 24 and 25 May 2025 at Winton Motor Raceway near Benalla in Victoria.
memorial. Thirty years to the day after the end of the Vietnam conflict the memorial was dedicated to the Australians who served with their South Vietnamese allies. The memorial comprises an Iroquois helicopter, perched on top of a pole, over life-sized bronze statues of a digger and a South Vietnamese infantryman.
5 years ago
28 April 2020
TOGETHER IN DARK TIME
Drum Theatre was lit a sombre blue, while flags fluttered at half-mast at Dandenong police station in tribute to four police officers killed on Eastern Freeway on April 22nd. Police allege that Leading Senior Constable Lynette Taylor, Senior Constable Kevin King, Constable Josh Prestney and Constable Glen Humphris were fatally struck by a refrigerated truck after a Porsche was intercepted near Chandler Highway, Kew. A 47-year-old truck driver from Cranbourne was charged with four counts of culpable driving.
Business breakfast coming up in Cardinia
Unlocking the Future: Join Steve Sammartino at the Cardinia Business Breakfast
Cardinia Shire Council’s upcoming Business Breakfast “Embracing AI: Small Steps, Big Impact for Your Business” will feature renowned futurist Steve Sammartino. Known for his energy and humour, Steve captivates audiences with his insights into technology’s future and its impact on business and society.
Be part of this transformative event on Wednesday 14 May, 2025 at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, Pakenham!
Steve’s journey into technology began at age 10. Today, he is a globally recognised AI expert, making complex concepts accessible. His latest
venture, Macro3D, has achieved the remarkable feat of 3D printing a house, and he is now working on building the world’s first home constructed entirely by AI.
An accomplished author, Steve has written three best-selling books and hosts the popular TV show “The Rebound” on Channel 9. His viral videos, including the drivable Lego Car, have collected over 100 million views.
At the business breakfast, Steve will share thought-provoking quotes like, “We now all have a PhD in every subject” and “AI favours the small – those who can move fast and experiment.” He encourages embracing AI, stating, “Don’t be scared, be involved and you’ll see how easy it is.”
Steve’s vision is a future where AI and humans
work together seamlessly, transforming our capabilities. As he puts it, “We are about to go from Search Engines to Creation Engines.”
The Cardinia Business Breakfast with Steve Sammartino is an unmissable opportunity to glimpse the future and harness the power of AI in your ventures.
The event is proudly supported by Star News Group as the media partner, and the Cardinia Foundation is the charity of choice.
Secure your tickets at https://www.trybooking.com/CZKYC
Unlocking the Future: Join Steve Sammartino at the Cardinia Business Breakfast.
Challenges, negativity, and the fast pace of modern life are undeniable parts of our world. Yet, haven’t we all encountered something beautiful? Oftenunnoticed,smallactsofkindness gently embrace our lives, leaving lasting impressions both personally and within our communities. You don’t need to be wealthy, noble, or hold an important title to show kindness. A warm smile, a helping hand, or heartfelt words can make a real difference. Holding the door for someone, greeting a neighbour, thankingaserviceworker,orquicklyapologizing for a small mistake may seem minor, but they can mean a great deal to others. These brief moments of compassion remind people that they are seen, valued, and cared for. We often underestimate the ripple effect of small gooddeeds. Likeadominoeffectorthewaves from a pebble thrown into still water, one act can lead to many more. Through this, we can build stronger personal and societal bonds. Scientific studies show that acts of kindness increase serotonin levels—not only in the person receiving the kindness but also in the one giving it and even in those witnessing it. From the dawn of humanity until the end of time, people have celebrated goodness, regardless of its size.
Cranbourne man Phillip Barrow will race at the Historic Winton with his beloved 1955 FJ Holden next month. (Violet Li: 473726)
Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society
Drum Theatre was lit a sombre blue after four police officers were killed on the roadside of Eastern Freeway, Kew on 22 April 2020. Cranbourne truck driver Mohinder Singh was later jailed for 22 years for culpable driving.
WHAT’S ON
More energy, better sleep
Short course is designed to help participants understand the vital connection between sleep, exercise, stress management, nutrition and energy, and provide practical strategies to improve both.
Tuesdays, 29 April-13 May, 1pm-2pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $30.
‘We Can Do’ Exhibition: Discover the world through a mobile lens! Join us as we showcase the work of our photography class a journey where anyone with a phone learned how to compose, edit, and share meaningful images.
Friday 2 May, 11am at at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park. 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
This inaugural event will bring together garden enthusiasts, local growers, and experts to share knowledge, showcase innovative gardening solutions, and strengthen our community’s connection to nature. With workshops on planting, recycling, compost and more, our Garden Expo aims to inspire the community to learn about and engage in sustainable practices.
• Sunday 4 May, 11am-3pm at Noble Park Community Centre, 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. Online banking for beginners.
Workshop designed to help learners understand how to make online payments and manage your bank accounts through apps and websites.
• Mondays 6:30pm-8:30pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $20 per term.
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!), 2pm5pm 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 greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/greaterdandenong-council/events/we-womens-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/multiculturalanxiety-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.
Bulls’ breakthrough battle
By David Nagel
The famous words of the Noble Park theme song echoed through the rooms at Pat Wright Oval on Saturday after the Bulls recorded a hard-fought 12.7(79) to 9.11(65) victory over Berwick.
It wasn’t all smooth sailing for the Bulls, who fell asleep early after both clubs lined up for a moving service to honour the Anzacs.
This was a big game for both clubs, who came into the contest after opening round losses prior to Easter.
Berwick bounced out of the blocks in spectacular fashion, booting the first three goals of the match – in the space of five minutes – to have the Bulls firmly on the back foot.
Jai Neal began proceedings with an easy mark in the goal-square, kicking the first of his five goals for the match unopposed just two metres out from goal.
Denzel Toland then took a great mark and kicked truly, and when Neal outmanoeuvred Bulls’ defender Dean Jones and kicked a ripper on the run…the Wickers were off to a flyer.
Berwick had all the momentum; but missed chances from Ben Todd and Harrison Canning let the home-town Bulls off the hook.
Those missed chances were the only downside of a great opening burst from Berwick, who looked quicker and sharper all over the ground.
But the Bulls showed typical resilience, with six pointers to Mason Torrance and Jack Murray cutting the margin to just eight points at quarter time.
The Bulls then kicked the opening goal of the second term before Berwick took control once again, with back-to-back goals to key-forward Daniel Pinter kicking the gap back out to 14.
The battle between both midfields was intense, with Ashton Williamson, Tahj De La Rue and Todd in the thick of the action for Berwick, while Lachie McDonnell, Harry Broderick and skipper Jordan Marson were up for the challenge for the Bulls.
Noble finished off the second quarter strongly, with the lively Liam O’Rourke kicking three goals in 11 minutes to give the home side a five-point lead at the major interval.
O’Rourke kicked two goals in a minute, from right on the goal-line, before being given far too much latitude from an unfocussed Berwick defence.
O’Rourke had no one within 10 metres of him when he accepted a mark and kicked his third for the afternoon just prior to the half-time siren.
Berwick then had the better of the third term, with Neal kicking two of their goals in a highlight reel performance.
The classy forward kicked two right-foot snaps, the first from close range after reading the play beautifully and the second a standout choice as goal-of-the-day.
Neal gathered a bouncing ball with ease, before snapping it through from 35-metres out off one step.
Jaylan Atton kicked the last of the third quarter off his left to give Berwick a four-point lead at the final change.
Noble then showed grit and determination in the last quarter, kicking the opening four goals to lock away the four premiership points.
Sam Pascuzzi kicked things off with a mark on the lead before Marson kicked a true captain’s goal after a free-kick for head-high contact.
O’Rourke then snagged his fourth; holding off Blake Westra with his left hand and taking a onehander with his right, before nailing his set shot for goal.
Any hopes of a Berwick comeback were then lost after Bulls’ ruck Daniel Knapper converted a free-kick after a ruck-infringement from his opposite number Jesse Cirulis.
A late-goal to Neal, his fifth for the afternoon, cut the margin to 14 points at the final siren.
O’Rourke was Noble’s only multiple goalkicker, ending the day with four, while McDonnell, Marson Kevin Kean and Matt Nelson were reliable figures throughout the full four quarters of football.
Berwick will consider this one as the one that got away, with the Wickers just falling away when it mattered most in the final term.
There were encouraging signs for new coach Andrew Williams, with Neal and Pinter providing solid contributions in the front half, while Anthony Clarke, skipper Will Arthurson and Brandon Cunningham held firm in defence.
Things don’t get any easier for the Bulls and Wickers this week, with Noble hitting the road to take on undefeated Blackburn, while Berwick returns home to Edwin Flack Reserve to host topof-the-table East Ringwood.
In other games this week, Blackburn came from 11 points down at three-quarter time to score an 18-point win over South Croydon, while East Ringwood held on by six points at home against recently-promoted Mitcham.
Zac Thiessen kicked three goals and Angus Strachan was best in Vermont’s 15-point win over Doncaster East, while Rowville kept its perfect start to the season intact with a 30point victory over reigning-premier Balwyn.
The first half was an arm-wrestle before the Hawks blew the game apart with a highly-impressive 6.6 to 1.0 third stanza.
Skipper Anthomy Brolic was superb for the Hawks all day, kicking two goals in a standout performance, while key-forward Lachlan Wynd kicked four goals to be the leading scorer
NobleParkGoals: Liam O’Rourke 4, Kevin Kean, Daniel Knapper, Jordan Marson, Jack Murray, Thomas Nelson, Samuel Pascuzzi, Joshua Stern, Mason Torrance. Best: Lachlan McDonnell, Jordan Marson, Kevin Kean, Liam O’Rourke, Matthew Nelson, Mason Torrance. BerwickGoals: Jai Neal 5, Daniel Pinter 2, Jaylan Atton, Denzel Toland. Best: Jai Neal, Benzhamen Todd, Anthony Clarke, Samuel Frangalas, William Arthurson, Jesse Cirulis.
OtherGames: South Croydon 9.10(64) def by Blackburn 12.10(82), East Ringwood 10.10(70) def Mitcham 10.4(64), Vermont 13.11(89) def Doncaster East 10.14(74), Balwyn 6.8(44) def by Rowville 10.14(74).
Ladder: East Ringwood, Rowville, Blackburn, Vermont 8, Doncaster East, Noble Park 4, Mitcham, Berwick, Balwyn, South Croydon.
FixtureR3: Blackburn (3) v Noble Park (6), Rowville (2) v Vermont (4), Mitcham (7) v Balwyn (9), Doncaster East (5) v South Croydon (10), Berwick (8) v East Ringwood (1).
Stingrays’ trip north yields a bag full of mixed results
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Dandenong’s girls recorded an impressive 5.6 36 to 4.5 29 victory in Queensland against a strong Gold Coast Academy over the Anzac Day weekend.
Trailing by 13 points early in the third term, the Stingrays kicked four of the last five goals of the game to run over the top of the hosts.
Evelyn Connolly continued her strong season as a dangerous medium forward with 2.3 from 14 disposals, lifting her season tally to 11.8 from three matches.
Two of Connolly’s goals came two minutes either side of three-quarter-time, giving her side important scoreboard nourishment as they got the momentum.
Vic Country summer hub teammate Nalu Brothwell was the Stingrays’ other multiple goal-scorer, slotting two majors from 19 disposals, while Molly Reimers kicked one.
Tahlia Sanger was the major ball-winner with 26 disposals, continuing her excellent start to her over-aged season, which included a
Tahlia Sanger has started her season in strong form. (Rob Carew: 430152)
VFLW debut for Collingwood last week.
Bottom-ager Sophie White played her best game in Stingrays colours, while Mizuki Brothwell, Matilda Argus and Marlee Black were all among the best.
The boys, meanwhile, were outclassed 7.8 50 to 16.16 112.
Marcus Prasad was one who was able to continue his strong form, giving Vic Country selec-
tors plenty to think about, with 16 disposals, a goal and eight tackles as a small forward who made the most of limited opportunities.
Fellow bottom-ager Gus Kennedy made the most of exposure in the midfield for a Stingrays side without several first choice players including Tairon Ah-Mu, Josh Granger, Callum Smith Louis Hodder and Jack Lawrence due to school footy commitments.
In his first game since a concussion suffered in round one, skipper Max Lee had 18 touches and will hope to build into form through the middle of the year.
Collingwood father-son prospect Oscar Lonie had 16 disposals, Jay-De Varlet had some dynamic moments and Beaconsfield’s Riley Hilliard and Langwarrin’s Archie Le Clerc played their first game of the season.
Meanwhile, four Stingrays/former Stingrays – Sam Toner, Adrian Cole, Henry Hayes and Charlie Orchard - took part in the Young Guns’ clash with Vic Metro on Saturday at Avalon Airport Oval, Werribee.
The match is a showcase of the best mostly
19-year-old talent ahead of the Mid-Season Draft while also helping to inform Victorian state selection for the U18 National Championships.
Narre Warren’s Toner was not only the standout local but one of the best players on the ground, kicking 3.2 to go with two assists and several strong marks in a match marred by driving rain.
Cole had some strong moments in the backline, alongside Orchard, while Hayes got some midfield time after a strong start to 2025 at Coates League level.
Elsewhere, the under-16s girls All Australian side was announced last week, with Stingrays duo Lily Brittain and Ella Bologa making the side.
Brittain averaged 22 disposals and five clearances for Vic Country as a smart and evasive ball-winning midfielder, while Bologa averaged 20 disposals as a pacy halfback.
Both girls are Narre North Foxes juniors, the club from which Hawthorn’s 2024 draftee Noah Mraz was taken from.
Noble Park players were in full voice after a hard-fought victory over Berwick at Pat Wright Oval on Saturday. (Supplied: 474387)
Slick City hit back in style
By Justin Schwarze
Dandenong City is looking to turn the tide on its season with a confidence boosting 5-2 win over South Melbourne at home on Friday night.
The victory is a stabiliser in City’s season amidst a patch of turbulent form after losing three out of its last four matches.
Port Melbourne was not switched on out of the gates, coughing up a costly error that was pounced on by Yagoub Mustafa.
A wrongly placed header gave Mustafa ample time and space, and despite the keeper coming out to meet him, Mustafa chipped him and the ball deflected in off the right post.
He celebrated in style, cartwheeling into a backflip as the hosts took the lead just six minutes into the match.
From there, no team was able to get onto the scoresheet for the remainder of the half, despite the Sharks having three shots on target and City having four.
Out of the rooms, Port Melbourne struck first when a poor clearance from Dandenong was fired into the back of the net by Aiden Brown that equalised for the visitors.
City’s response was almost imminent, as Kenjok Athiu brilliantly headed it in off a free kick cross.
The game completely flipped when Dandenong had another within two minutes, a fantastic ball from Athiu played into Timothy Atheri-
nos saw him finish with a classy chip that had the hosts suddenly 3-1 up.
Atherinos’ goal to widen the margin was only six minutes after the Sharks’ equaliser.
The drama wasn’t finished there, when Port Melbourne dragged one back through a lovely touch from Thomas Alisandratos at point blank range in the 73rd minute.
Later, another complete miscue from the Sharks defence gifted an opportunity for Athiu, who finished with a stylish volley off a chest touch to make it 4-2 and put his side back to a comfortable difference.
In injury time, a fabulous run from Valli Cesnik saw him square the ball to Athiu who was unmarked at the near post, and Athiu turned it in to complete his hat-trick on a day out for City.
The win boosts Dandenong back into eighth, with an away fixture at Melbourne Knights upcoming in round 12.
Pies get the points over Port
By Blair Burns
After Dingley defeated Springvale Districts in the first match of the Southern Football Netball League (SFNL) Division 1 competition last week, the rest of the games were staged over the Anzac Day weekend.
Narre Warren bounced back from last week’s loss to East Brighton in a big way, securing an important comeback victory over Port Melbourne in an Anzac Day thriller, after trailing at every break throughout the game.
At half time, the Colts had a 21-point lead, but six goals from key forward Jake Richardson helped Narre Warren get back in the game before they piled on seven goals to two in the final quarter to win by 29 points.
Riley Siwes had a breakout game for the Magpies while Tyler Bell was named Port Melbourne’s best, with Charlie Clarke and Riley Stafford (three goals each) leading the way for the Colts.
East Brighton sits on top of the ladder and is undefeated after Round 3 after comfortably defeating Cranbourne by 48 points.
The Eagles were up for the challenge and took it up to the star-studded Vampires in the first half, trailing by just a kick at half time, and having had 13 scoring shots to East Brighton’s nine.
But the Vampires doubled their first-half score in the third quarter and kept Cranbourne scoreless, winning the quarter 44-0 and setting up their third consecutive win, without ex-Collingwood player Ben Reid.
In other matches, Cheltenham made light
work of Bentleigh winning by 41 points at the final siren with the reigning premiers establishing a big lead after a dominant first half – Austin Johnson kicked five for the Rosellas.
St Pauls McKinnon is 3-0 after defeating Murrumbeena by 50 points, 14.11 (95) to 6.9 (45) as captain Matthew Kreymborg led the way with three majors.
It was a weekend of upsets in SFNL Division 2 with two of the highly rated teams being knocked off by underdogs, Hampton Park was one of these as it dropped its first game of the season.
The undermanned Redbacks fell 17 points short against Highett after winning their first two matches of the season by a combined 192 points, as the Dogs piled on seven goals in the second quarter to claim their first win of the season.
Keysborough got on the winners’ list and handed Caulfield Bears their third consecutive loss, winning a tight Anzac Day rivalry under lights by 14 points, as only eight goals were scored for the entire game.
Chelsea Heights knocked off the previously undefeated Frankston Dolphins by four points in a thriller, to win its first game of the season.
Doveton Doves made it two wins in a row as it defeated Mordialloc by 10 points with accurate kicking proving the difference, Max Sheppard led the way with three goals.
One of the premiership favourites East Malvern survived a scare against Endeavour Hills but managed to hold on by 12 points in the lowscoring affair as Isaac Morrisby was kept goalless.
Dandenong face the Blues after Frankston wins double
By Justin Schwarze
It was a disappointing weekend for the Dandenong Rangers after Frankston did the double over the club in round four of the NBL1 South season.
On the road, the women were left completely stunned after a disastrous fourth quarter ended in a 78-64 loss.
The Rangers were overrun 30-8 in the final term after leading by eight entering the frame.
They shot just 18 percent in the period and didn’t connect on any of their five attempts from beyond the arc.
Scoring completely dried up and Dandenong were completely flustered, with head coach Larissa Anderson being assessed with a technical foul as the game got out of reach.
The game was veteran Clare Camac’s 400th in the competition, a massive achievement highlighting an illustrious career.
Superstar guard Dallas Loughridge was stellar for the Rangers with 23 points, five rebounds and four assists on 47 percent shooting.
Frankston were led by an outstanding performance from skipper Louise Brown, who recorded a statline of 31 points, eight rebounds, four assists, three steals and three blocks while shooting 10/17 from the field.
Back-to-back losses for Dandenong leaves it sitting in fifth after being victorious in its first four hit outs.
In their next matchup, the Rangers will make the hike up to Bendigo to face the Braves.
The men were outplayed in a wire-to-wire result against Frankston, with the Blues leading by as many as 29 after dominating from the opening tip.
Frankston led 56-37 at the main break and cruised to the 97-86 win.
A final charge from Dandenong brought the game closer on the scoreboard, but it was
significantly outmatched in the contest.
The hosts shot 50 percent on field goals and knocked down 39 percent of their threes.
Bryton Hobbs poured in 22 points and Jack Roberts scored 20 points on 8/11 shooting with seven rebounds for Dandenong in defeat.
Kingsley Box provided a double-double for the hosts, while he was supported by 24 points from Taane Samuel.
Tom Garrett was lights out from beyond the arc and torched the Rangers, converting six of his 10 triples for 18 points.
Dandenong has had a poor start to the season, losing five out of its first six games with a matchup against Bendigo coming up.
Narre Warren bounced back from last week’s loss to defeat Port Melbourne by 29 points. (Rob Carew: 469859)
Dallas Loughridge was fantastic for Dandenong in defeat. (Ruffy Sport: 468803)
Kenjok Athiu had a day to remember with a hattrick and an assist. (Supplied)
