Six lanes of danger
Sharon Harris, pictured, takes a perilous journey across Dandenong-Frankston Road to visit a
precinct in Dandenong South. The centre has no footpath access to link to a nearby pedestrian crossing, forcing Ms Harris to take alternative measures.
More on the story, turn to page 6
(Sahar Foladi: 490274)
Hub revival hopes
A proposal for an education centre is hoped to revive a derelict arcade in the heart of Dandenong.
According to forlorn traders, the Hub Arcade has been long-blighted by rough sleeping, drug taking and looting.
Real estate agent Vincent Golf says some of these issues could be allayed with plans for a culinary education centre for people with special needs based at the Hub’s food court.
However, he says homelessness in the area is not getting any better.
“The homeless people like to be in dark places where there’s no other people around and that’s the Hub at the moment – it’s dark.
“If there’s more activity in the Hub during the day it’s less likely the homeless people will be there.”
“It’s a beautiful thing for young kids and young adults with disabilities,” the First National Hall and Partners agent says.
The hub’s security guards patrol the area from 2pm to 6pm.
One of the guards, Wajid Anjum, says he’s being targeted by those causing issues at the hub for just doing his job.
“It’s a dangerous area here, every day is terrible.
“When I try to stop these people, they fight with me. Last week I was kicked by a woman.”
Mike has been sleeping rough since last year.
“We don’t break into offices, we just find somewhere to sleep,” Mike says.
There are 45 rough sleepers in City of Greater Dandenong according to the Dandenong Zero website, a project partnering Greater Dandenong Council and Launch Housing since 2022.
The educational idea has won support from shop owner Stephen Rodgers and Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti.
More on the story, turn to page 2
Plan to revive Hub arcade
By Sahar Foladi
A plan is in the making for an educational facility for people with special needs to rejuvenate the troubled Dandenong Hub Arcade.
A shop adjacent to the Hub’s food court is being eyed for the facility, with the food court to be transformed into culinary classes for people with autism and other special needs.
Vincent Golf, a listing and selling agent at First National Hall and Partners, is the first one to come up with the idea and working with stakeholders to turn it into a reality, a bright opportunity for families.
“It’s a beautiful thing for young kids and young adults with disabilities.”
However, the location has its own issues of rough sleepers that creep inside the hub from evening onwards to secure sleeping spots.
Shops inside the hub are also reportedly being broken into and looted, causing extensive damage.
Mr Golf says this does not deter the plans, which may help to eradicate some of these issues. He says homelessness in the area is not getting any better.
“The homeless people like to be in dark places where there’s no other people around and that’s the Hub at the moment - it’s dark.
“If there’s more activity in the Hub during the day it’s less likely the homeless people will be there.”
As reported previously by Star Journal, the arcade of 67 leased shops is privately owned by several entities.
Shop owner Stephen Rodgers is the head of the Dandenong Hub Committee also advocating for better conditions.
He is one of the many shops that have agreed to the education plan, saying it’s a great idea to address the “snowballing” issues at the Hub.
“We needed to get extra traffic in that place.
“Dandenong is a particular problem, there’s an awful amount of crime in the area.
“When Headspace opened up here, it attracted a lot of druggies into that area and once they understand the layout of the building, they think this could be a hotel.”
There are 45 rough sleepers in City of Greater Dandenong according to the Dandenong Zero website, a project partnering Greater Dandenong
Push for a kids pool
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A 2100-strong petition is pushing for a kids’ shallow pool and other children’s water facilities to be reinstated at Casey Council’s revamped Doveton Pool in the Park.
Doveton Eumemmerring Township Association’s online petition was tabled at a council meeting on 15 June, railing against the council’s preferred water-free stage-2 design.
Councillors unanimously voted for the petition to be considered by Casey’s chief executive Glenn Patterson.
Last year, the council fully funded the $7.92 million stage-1 of the project to rebuild the 50-metre pool and splash pad and shut down the waterslides and toddler pools.
In a recent public survey, the council pitched a largely hydrophobic stage-2 including a district-level playground, “kick-about grass” areas, sand/water play, nature play, picnic facilities and toilets.
DETA chair Joshua Oostwoud was disappointed that a kids’ pool, upgraded splash pad and waterslides were not even listed as options.
The pool would be less attractive to families, as a result, he says.
“The kids’ (water) options need to be present to make the pool a viable option.”
Mr Ooostwoud says the petition with more than 2000 signatures shows overwhelming local support for the cause.
It carries weight, as does having Doveton resident and former DETA chair Stefan Koomen as mayor, he says.
“The feedback is he’s very supportive and wants to respect the community’s wishes.”
In 2021, DETA’s ‘Save Doveton Pool’ campaign forced Casey to reverse plans to shut down the 50-metre and childrens pools and retain the area as parkland only.
Mayor Koomen has personally campaigned to regain kids aqua facilities including a shallow pool at Doveton.
He says the presented stage-2 options had been based on a masterplan backed by Casey’s
Then-DETA chair Stefan Koomen, with daughters Frankie and Georgie, campaigning for a kids’ pool in early 2024.
former administrators.
But the public’s “strong voice” would be “taken on board”, he said.
“(The community consultation) will come back to Council, as well as the petition that the community has done will be considered in the report by Council.
“We want to make sure that the upgrades will be of benefit to the community for the next five decades.
“We want to make sure that it’s a sustainable and family-friendly facility.”
In the recent Casey 2025=’26 budget, $9.8 million was committed to the project.
The Federal Government has pitched in $7.5 million for stage-2.
Government,” Mr Golf says.
“I’ve got a client that’s been waiting 12 months for builders warranty insurance, something that should take six weeks.
“Now if we had it in six weeks’ time, it would be built by now and more families could be off the streets and in housing but it’s because of these hold-ups there’s a strangle-hold on the entire Victoria building market.”
His client had already spent $3 million worth of works on support pillars and concrete plus a 12-month holding cost in mortgage.
Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti welcomes investment at the Hub especially when it comes to education, saying the issues surrounding the Hub aren’t long-term.
“I think with proper planning, proper security measures a bit of assistance from Victoria PoliceI think it’s not a long-term problem.”
The hub’s security guards patrol the area from 2pm to 6pm.
One of the guards, Wajid Anjum, has been in the job only for few months and is already thinking of calling it quits.
He says he’s being targeted by those causing issues at the hub for just doing his job.
“It’s a dangerous area here, every day is terrible.
“When I try to stop these people, they fight with me. Last week I was kicked by a woman.”
Mike has been sleeping rough since last year. Mr Anjum considers him one of the nice guys who doesn’t create much problem.
Council and Launch Housing since 2022.
Overall, there’s 70 listed as homeless including nine in temporary stable housing, eight in respite or hotels and eight unknowns.
In April, Greater Dandenong had 53 rough sleepers, the highest amount since the beginning of 2025.
“The housing crisis is somewhat caused by the
“We don’t break into offices, we just find somewhere to sleep,” Mike says.
“Maybe the boys just take their drink, smoke their weed and cigarettes and they relax.
“The boys are OK, they never steal.”
As previously reported by Star Journal, many of the businesses inside the Hub say they have been long bearing the brunt of drug activities, as rough sleepers cause havoc late at night.
Demolition order issued
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
After two decades of complaints, Greater Dandenong Council has taken a court order for the demolition of a hoarder’s house in Noble Park.
As reported by Star Journal in 2022, the site had been long described as an eyesore and firerisk.
Its front and back yards have been piled and packed with materials, including heaps on a garage roof.
A rickety, allegedly illegal timber building structure loomed large, as well as mesh wire sheets towering over boundary fences.
Now, the owner has been given until 8 August to comply with council building orders issued in 2024 to vacate and remove the house “including the below ground area”.
There is a further order to remove the mesh sheets, and to remove an extension structure on the shed’s roof.
The property is to be “left cleared” by the deadline.
A magistrate has also directed the owner to pay the council’s $3994.66 costs for the court order.
Exasperated neighbours, Ruth and Fred, are a couple in their 90s who first complained to Greater Dandenong Council about the unsightly mounds in 2011.
They are relieved but taken aback by the demolition order.
“Do they have the power to go in and demolish a person’s home?” Ruth said.
She said little had changed in the yard since the court order was pinned to the property on 9 July.
“The whole place looks awful. There’s just a narrow pathway to get past the junk to get access to the house.
“It’s shocking really that nothing has been done for so long.”
The couple have been told the yard is a fire hazard – and added to Fire Rescue Victoria’s Hoarding Notification System so fire crews were aware of the “increased fuel load”.
FRV advised her to consider interconnected smoke alarms at her home and to ensure she had an emergency evacuation plan.
Three years ago, Greater Dandenong Council told Star Journal that it had a “long history” with the hoarder dating back to 2004.
“Over the past two decades we have worked with the owner to address a number of concerns,” a spokesperson said.
However, the issue had not at that stage been identified as a “hoarding concern” by the council’s public health team.
“The Public Health team becomes involved when all other avenues have been exhausted –this includes action under planning legislation, building legislation, or under Council’s Local Laws as an unsightly or overgrown property.
“The issue of hoarding is complex and multilayered, and each case is unique. They often involve mental health issues and require patience, flexibility and understanding.”
Demolition has been ordered for a hoarder’s property in Noble Park, pictured in 2022. (Stewart Chambers: 392355)
A window is smashed, near where a majority find a spot to sleep at The Hub Arcade. (Sahar Foladi: 491001)
End of a 162-year era
By Sahar Foladi
An Australia Post branch on Springvale Road permanently closed its doors on Friday 18 July despite a community campaign and petition to keep it open.
Springvale MPs, Greater Dandenong Council, local councillors and community leaders supported the retention of the post shop, arguing it’s one of the most accessible for elderly residents in Springvale.
It is the first time Springvale has been without a post office branch for more than 160 years, with the initial post shop opening in 1864.
Mulgrave MP Eden Foster initiated the campaign saying the closure negatively impacts residents of Springvale.
“This would force residents, many of whom already face economic or language barriers, to travel much further for essential services like bill payments, passport renewals, and Centrelink paperwork.
“For more than a century, the Springvale Post Shop has helped connect people, not only to loved ones but to government services and financial institutions.
“Australia Post has entirely failed the Springvale community by not properly notifying residents of the closure.
“With just (days) to go, many locals who pass the shop daily still are unaware of the post shop’s
pending closure. This closure shows total disregard for the people who rely on this vital service.”
She says the post office is a “lifeline” for many in the community particularly from non-English speaking backgrounds.
Springvale is celebrated for its diverse population of Vietnamese, Cambodian, Chinese and Burmese communities.
An Australia Post spokesperson said it was a difficult decision to close the post shop due to a 30 per cent drop in customer visits over the past four years.
“Customers will still be able to access free 24/7 parcel lockers in central Springvale at 327 Springvale Road and the surrounding area is well serviced, with six post offices within a five kilometre radius, including Springvale South Post Office which is around two kilometres away and open Saturdays.”
The town’s Post Office Lane will be soon left without a post shop, which is located right next to the Post shop and named after it.
The lane is set for stage three of revitalisation works to install a canopy along the laneway’s full length.
The canopy element’s key feature is colourful lanterns which light up at night to bring the area to life and to ensure it becomes a “cherished icon” from afar.
It’s unclear when works will resume.
Two men charged after police raid Notting Hill home
Two men have been charged after an allegedly stolen vehicle was followed by police to a home in Notting Hill.
The Subaru Impreza vehicle was spotted by police a fast-food restaurant car park at the corner of Wellington and Dandenong roads in Clayton about 12.15am on Friday, 18 July.
Officers attempted to intercept the vehicle but it was immediately driven away at a fast rate of speed, police say.
The Air Wing followed the car to an address in Elwood Street, Notting Hill.
Two men were arrested, and a 3D printer and a shotgun were allegedly found by police.
A 30-year-old Dandenong man was charged with being a prohibited person with a firearm, car theft, possessing cartridge ammunition, possessing an article for burglary, theft or cheating, and disqualified driving.
A 39-year-old Notting Hill man was charged with being a prohibited person with a firearm, possessing an explosive substance, making an improvised explosive device and possessing a drug of dependence.
Both were remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Sunday 19 July.
Mulgrave MP Eden Foster with councillor Sean O’Reilly and residents of Springvale against the closure of Springvale Post Shop. (Supplied)
NEWS Hundreds of birds poisoned
By Sahar Foladi
Investigations have begun into more than 200 dead birds found in Springvale South from suspected poisoning in recent days.
Wildlife carer of 35 years, Michele Phillips received calls from Springvale locals on Sunday 13 July but what followed would leave anyone traumatised.
“There were birds literally falling from the skies, in front of the cars, getting run over, in the car park, it was just horrible.
“Someone definitely put out poison.
“It’s a shopping centre - all the people walking by can see them and feed them. Someone’s put poison in the food on the ground.
“Corellas mate for life. Some of the partners were sitting there nudging them, not knowing.”
The volunteer from South Oakleigh Wildlife Shelter says it took eight hours that day at the shopping centre on Athol Road to gather the dead birds mainly of corellas and a few pigeons. There were more than 200 dead and only eight survivors taken for treatment.
The following day, Ms Phillips went out and
picked up another 50 dead pigeons.
She says she’s never seen anything like it.
“It’s a worry because they if do that to an animal, what would they do to a human being?
“I’m shattered, still shattered. I have to keep going, I’m doing it day by day.”
She was told dead birds were first seen and cleaned up from the area since Friday night but no one made any reports or calls.
Keysborough South Ward councillor Isabella Do says the reports are “extremely distressing”.
“While the exact cause is still unclear, harming and killing native birds is both unacceptable and illegal. These birds are a vital part of our local ecosystem.
“I am hoping that the circumstances behind this incident are uncovered quickly and that we will never see something like this happen again in our community.”
Ms Phillips urged the general public not to feed wild birds, saying there’s “plenty natural food around.”
Wildlife volunteers together with concerned residents such as Noble Park resident Peta Nich-
olls are have spend the next days clearing out the area of any food left out for the birds to eat.
However, it’s hard to gather all of them Ms Nicholl says.
“There’s a big flock of pigeons on the roof of the shops waiting for us to go, but we were trying to sweep the food or cover it up with dirt, gravel.
“A lot of the people are worried about children and dogs that they might pick up the dead birds.”
Both RSPCA and Conservation Regulator spokespersons have confirmed an investigation is underway into the cause of death of a large number of corellas.
“Conservation Regulator does not grant Authorities to Control Wildlife allowing the use of poisoning as a control method, and has not issued an Authority to Control Wildlife for corellas in this area.”
Corellas are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975, and there are significant penalties for hunting, taking or destroying protected wildlife, including imprisonment.
Anyone who has seen sick or dead birds are advised to avoid contact with the birds and to record what they see.
Noble Park townhouses approved on appeal
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
After being twice rejected, it was a case of thirdtime-lucky for a proposed trio of double-storey townhouses in Noble Park.
Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) member Seuna Byrne on 9 July approved the permit on the 638-square-metre site at 34 Shepreth Avenue.
This was despite Greater Dandenong Council’s objections including traffic, landscaping and
neighbourhoodcharacter–particularlyfortheproposed two-storey dwelling at the rear.
In2023,VCATandthecouncilhadbothrefused to grant a permit. On that occasion, VCAT rejected the proposed two driveways for the site and lack of landscaping. In September 2024, councillors voted down a planning officer’s recommendation to approve the revised proposal despite being warned it was “highly likely” to succeed at VCAT.
Councillor Sean O’Reilly argued the proposal was an “over-development” despite being “techni-
cally compliant in some respects”.
“We all know the likelihood of this application succeeding at VCAT but we need to send a signal from this council that an application that may be seen as excessive and an overdevelopment will not just go through this council with zero friction.”
Councillor Phillip Danh, in support of a permit, noted that the issues raised by the initial tribunal ruling had been addressed in this new application.
“I’m concerned a rejection of the proposal to-
night will expose council, ratepayers and residents toextralegalcosts,especiallyaslegalconsideration of over-development…would not even be considered if this was to go to VCAT again.”
And indeed, VCAT member Byrne noted that the proposal had since meaningfully changed and “corrected” the initial VCAT concerns.
Thenewproposalhadasingleshareddriveway, car parks hidden in the interior of the site, a larger front setback, more garden beds and greater separation between two of the townhouses.
Some of the 200-plus dead corellas and pigeons found in Springvale South suspected of poisoning on Sunday 13 July. (Supplied)
We’re building the Metro Tunnel and there will be disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building the Metro Tunnel and its five new underground stations, with three stations now complete. Work is continuing on two stations, and we’re testing trains through the tunnel to make sure they operate smoothly and safely.
While we work, disruptions could affect your travel
Train disruptions:
Cranbourne and Pakenham lines
From 8.30pm 1 August to 3 August
4 August to 8.30pm 8 August
From 8.30pm 8 August to 10 August
Buses replace trains between Westall, Cranbourne and Berwick
Buses replace trains between Dandenong, Cranbourne and Berwick
Buses replace trains between Westall, Cranbourne and East Pakenham
11 to 13 AugustBuses replace trains between Westall, Cranbourne and Berwick
16 August Passengers change at Caulfield station for Frankston Line trains to and from the city
Road disruptions: Closed ramps and road Bald
Town Hall Station
Hill Road, Pakenham
Princes Freeway, Berwick
Clyde Road
Road, Berwick
Princes Freeway
Taking a chance to cross
By Sahar Foladi
A resident in a wheelchair says she is forced to dangerously cross six lanes of heavy traffic on Dandenong-Frankston Road to access a shopping precinct in Dandenong South.
Former Greater Dandenong councillor, Sharon Harris says there is no footpath leading from the nearest signalised pedestrian crossing to the shops such as Officeworks, JB Hi-Fi and The Good Guys.
The signalised intersection with a pedestrian crossing leads instead onto a nature strip that’s muddy and bumpy surface with a high kerb, which is not accessible for her.
To access a footpath, she is forced to cross the road without traffic lights, about 20 metres south of the signalised crossing.
“You can’t be scared of the traffic.
“Sometimes it feels like I’m being stopped going into shops in Dandenong because of this barrier.
“When Officeworks shifted here, it was really awful.”
Diagnosed with fibromyalgia a decade ago, she has been crossing the stretch of road ever since.
Businesses, staff and customers at the shopping precinct are also frustrated by the lack of footpaths forcing them to walk on the unbalanced muddy nature strip.
Cafe staff Helene Seng says she had a mother complaining of how difficult it was to push a pram on the bumpy, muddy grass.
She herself gets off the bus at the intersection but to avoid walking on the mud, she says she gets off one stop earlier despite the long walk.
“I try to avoid that route because of the high grass especially on rainy days, it’s very bothering.”
are not suitable for people with mobility issues.
On a rainy day she wraps herself with a bright yellow raincoat so she can be easily spotted by drivers behind the wheel.
medicines cost me? They cost me over $100 sometimes.
Meanwhile, Ms Harris has also been part of the council’s disability reference group to “work to change things”.
She claims many roads of Greater Dandenong
Muayad Ali has owned a kebab shop in the area for the past eight years. He says easier access to the general and wider community, not just those in vehicles, will provide more customers.
“A lot of people say, ‘you’ve got a taxi card, you get half price taxi.’
“Wait a minute, do you know how much my
“So, yes, it is half fair, but it’s still coming out of my wage that I try to be very frugal on and I don’t like wasting it.
“I use my taxi card for mainly emergencies.”
Timber bollards part of Browns Rd safety revamp
By Sahar Foladi
Timber bollards are being viewed as an imperfect solution for a roundabout trouble-spot in Browns Road, Noble Park amid residents’ escalating safety concerns.
The road is shared by residents, the trucks and semi-trailers from the nearby industrial zone, and is infamous for vehicles speeding, cutting corners and crashing into neighbourning yards.
Under a draft plan, Greater Dandenong Council has been working with residents on proposed solutions such as timber bollards, after the council recently removed damaged concrete bollards which it deemed as ‘illegal’.
Councillor Lana Formoso, who first brought the issue at previous council meetings, was disappointed by the timber bollards.
“The issue is they get knocked every couple of weeks. They get damaged, found half hanging, ripped out of the ground then we have to put in another one. It’s just this vicious cycle.
Resident Patrick, who lives adjacent to the roundabout, stands next to the only remaining concrete bollard on the corner. (Stewart Chambers: 488391)
“I preferred the concrete ones, because they are sturdier.
“We have to make do with what we’ve got.”
As previously reported by Star Journal, council removed concrete bollards on the nature
strip after it was damaged by a heavy vehicle.
It acted as a protection barrier between the roundabout, footpath and an adjacent house.
Patrick, who lives in the house in question, says the timber bollards proposal “doesn’t make sense” to him.
“We have to take what we’re given at this stage and hope they do work.”
His wife, Judith chased down the truck that damaged the bollards in October last year.
She was able to take down the vehicle registration number and also the driver’s license, which was passed onto the council.
In an email, Mr Manivasagasivam stated that when quotes for the replacement bollards are obtained council can progress its insurance claims for “costs associated with the damage in October, utilising the information provided by residents.”
For now, Council is to fund the replacement of the bollards as there’s no federal blackspotfunding left for the intersection.
The draft plan also includes speed cushions on the approach and departure legs of Browns Road, removal of the traffic island on the southern leg, installation of line marking and additional line marking treatments to narrow lane width on Wren Drive
“The proposed treatments are expected to reduce vehicle speeds at the intersection and provide additional manoeuvring space for larger vehicles, while reducing the likelihood of the bollards being struck,” council’s acting city futures executive director, Brett Jackson said.
“Further details, including timeline and budget, will be determined once consultation is complete and the plan is finalised.
“Council’s allocation of Federal Government Black Spot funding was put towards a range of projects, but this did not include the bollards on Browns Road.”
As part of Federal Blackspot Program funding, council installed a number of traffic calming treatments on Browns Road last year which reduced traffic speeds.
After the pedestrian crossing in distant view, mothers with pram and public are forced to walk on this muddy trial. (490274)
Sharon Harris waits to cross the road, acting as any other vehicle. (Sahar Foladi: 490274)
Since opening in 1973, almost 3,000 students have enrolled at Emerson School. Emerson has a statewide reputation for unlocking the potential of every student. Emerson specializes in providing dynamic learning programs for Primary and Secondary students who have intellectual and learning processing needs.
Emerson provides a total package from early primary education to vocational pathways. Once students immerse themselves in the holist Emerson learning program, parents cannot believe the difference in their child’s confidence and attitude.
Emerson does not make just reasonable adjustments to curricular programs, it makes extraordinary changes and additions to learning options that create unbelievable opportunities for improvement and celebration.
What makes these differences happen:
1. The core programs in numeracy and literacy capture where a student is currently at and gently takes them to a higher level of learning and understanding.
2. Our extensive music instrumental dance and chorale program enable a student to know who they are in their musical celebrations.
3. Our new Technology Centre provides for experiences in wood technology / building & construction and automotive studies across our primary and secondary programs.
4. Our food technology and hospitality programs range from Foundation class to Year 12. Our facilities have been described as state of the art in preparing students to work in the food and hospitality sector.
5. Our physical education and sports programs are well known throughout Victoria.
6. Our visual arts provide our students with an opportunity to express themselves in many ways.
7. Our Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC) programs are provided to all senior secondary students to prepare them for future learning and enable them to become valuable members of their community.
A visit to Emerson School will change the lives of prospective students and their families.
Come and visit us and find out.
EDUCATION CHOICES
Nurturing success
At Lyndale Secondary College, we recognise that every student is an individual and strive to “treat every child as our own.“ We set high standards, encourage hard work, and support our students to achieve their very best. This commitment makes us a vibrant and engaging learning community.
Lyndale has a proud history of serving the Dandenong and broader community. Our Principal team is dedicated to leading a school community that builds upon the strong culture already established. We aim to see all our students flourish and complete Year 12 equipped with the knowledge, skills, and attributes needed to achieve their future ambitions.
Our College community holds high expectations for student performance, attendance, and behaviour. Our excellent results in these areas reflect our unwavering commitment. To ensure our students reach their full potential, we provide extensive support services focusing on course and career planning, as well as student welfare.
With an enrolment of approximately 900 students, Lyndale offers the benefits and opportunities inherent in a large school. The College boasts a broad curriculum, specialist learning areas and facilities, extensive staff professional development, and a wide range of co-curricular programs. These elements contribute significantly to the comprehensive development of our students’ academic, cultural, artistic, social, and sporting achievements, all while maintaining the essential sense of belonging found in great schools.
We welcome your interest and warmly invite you to contact the College at (03) 9795 2366 with any enquiries.
Phonics Plus program sets up students for life
The State Government says it is making best practice common practice with Victoria’s Phonics Plus program setting up our youngest students for life-long reading success.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll earlier this year announced the release new English Lesson plans, including Phonics Plus lesson plans, to support the delivery of the state’s revised English curriculum.
The State Government has mandated that all students from Prep to Grade 2 will be taught using a systematic synthetic phonics approach as part of their reading programs, with a minimum of 25 minutes daily explicit teaching of phonics and phonemic awareness.
The English lesson plans help primary and secondary students build their vocabulary, read increasingly complex fiction and non-fiction texts, and strengthen their spelling, grammar, punctuation and syntax.
The Year 1 Phonics Check takes about 10 minutes, compared to the current 40 minutes per student, saving teachers approximately 12 hours in assessments, the governmend said.
“The new evidence-based, ready-to-use Phonics Plus lesson plans will reduce teacher workloads so they can spend more time engaging with students and setting them up for life-long success,” Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll said.
“With more English lesson plans on the way, and the excellent work of teachers who are implementing Phonics Plus, we are ensuring Victorian students get the best start to their education.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll. (Damjan Janevski)
To ensure students reach their full potential, Lyndale Secondary College provides extensive support services focusing on course and career planning, as well as student welfare.
Lyndale Secondary College offers a vibrant and engaging learning community.
EDUCATION CHOICES
Growing young minds
Schools across Australia are being encouraged to take learning outside on Friday, 25 July for Schools Tree Day, the nation’s largest tree-planting and nature care event for students.
Schools Tree Day is part of the National Tree Day program and provides young Australians from early learning to high school with a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on environmental learning while gaining significant health and wellbeing benefits.
Research published in MDPI’s Education Sciences journal in January highlighted the powerful impact of outdoor learning on students’ development, showing nature-based activities signifi-
cantly enhance psychological well-being, social connectivity, and environmental awareness among children and adolescents. By participating in Schools Tree Day, students can experience these benefits firsthand while contributing to a greener future.
Planet Ark, the organisation behind Schools Tree Day and National Tree Day, is calling on teachers and students to get their hands dirty and plant trees in their school grounds or local communities. Planet Ark CEO Rebecca Gilling says that Schools Tree Day is more than just an environmental initiative—it’s an opportunity to support student learning in a meaningful and engaging way.
“Outdoor learning has been proven to boost students’ cognitive and emotional development and Schools Tree Day provides the perfect chance for educators to integrate nature into their curriculum, helping students connect with their environment while improving their overall wellbeing,” Ms Gilling said.
Since its inception, Schools Tree Day has seen thousands of schools across the country take part, fostering a generation of environmentally conscious students. Educators, parents and students interested in taking part in Schools Tree Day can sign up, access educational resources, and share their experiences by visiting treeday.planetark. org/get-involved/schools
Getting back to university
After years of decline, the number of Australians getting a crack at university are bouncing back.
When you take out the two Covid years, this year looks set to be the biggest year for Australians commencing an undergraduate or postgraduate university degree on record.
Preliminary data for 2024 shows around 390,000 domestic students began a degree – a 3.7 per cent increase on 2023.
This includes more than 20,000 new starters in nursing degrees (a 3 per cent increase) and more than 25,000 new starters in teaching degrees (a 9 per cent increase).
Early, year to date figures for 2025 suggest that growth is continuing with commencements up another 3 per cent compared to the same time in 2024.
This reverses the trend seen since 2017, excluding the Covid years, where the number of domestic students commencing an undergraduate or postgraduate degree have been steadily falling.
In addition, over 14,000 students have taken up Fee-Free Uni Ready courses this year. Fee-Free Uni Ready courses are short courses that help prepare people for university, acting as a bridge between school or work and higher education.
Thousands of students around the country will get their hands dirty to do something good for the environment on Schools Tree Day. (Planet Ark)
$80k fine
A Dandenong packaging manufacturer has been convicted and fined a total of $80,000 after a worker had a finger amputated due to using unguarded machinery.
Polycell Australia Pty Ltd, was sentenced at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on Monday 7 July after pleading guilty to failing to provide and maintain safe plant and a system of work and failing to notify WorkSafe of an incident.
The company was also ordered to pay $5,829 in costs.
In February 2023, a worker was operating machinery that produces bubble wrap envelopes through a series of rollers, folding mechanisms, heat sealing machines, and guillotines.
The worker attempted to remove material jammed in the envelope machine when her right hand was dragged back into a roller, causing serious injuries that required multiple surgeries, including the amputation of a finger.
WorkSafe was notified of the injury through a call from the worker’s partner, and the employer did not make an incident report until inspectors
visited the workplace several days later.
The court heard WorkSafe had previously issued improvement notices to the company in relation to guarding on other machines at the same workplace.
It was reasonably practicable for Polycell Australia to install a permanent interlocked perimeter guard on the envelope machine, and to provide a system for safely fixing jams in the machine using a lock out, tag out procedure.
WorkSafe Executive Director Health and Safety Sam Jenkin said all Victorian workers should trust that their work environment protects them from risk of serious injury.
“There are simple methods to significantly reduce the risk of hands being injured or crushed when working with machinery, and yet these incidents are far too common.
“It’s very disappointing to see this incident go unreported for so long and we will not hesitate to take action against duty holders who try to avoid responsibility after failing their obligation to control health and safety risks.”
FREE ENTRY
Council says ‘No’ to more gambling machines
By Sahar Foladi
As part of Greater Dandenong Council’s review into its gambling issues, the council is set to lobby Victoria’s Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Minister to halt any new pokie machines in the municipality.
At a 14 July council meeting, councillor Lana Formoso moved an amendment for a meeting to be held with the minister Enver Erdogan and Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams. This is as part of her advocacy to “desperately” cease any further electronic gaming machines (EGMs) in Greater Dandenong.
“I’m sick and tired of it.
“It’s like this silent cancer that no one talks about that’s eating away at our communities and families.
“They are so desperate, they think ‘I’m going to get my opportunity to win’ and that’s what happens when people become desperate - they gamble more.”
The report was first brought at a council meeting on 10 June but was deferred as councillors Rhonda Garad and Formoso pitched for a stronger stance.
Cr Formoso stated “there’s provision” for another 61 gaming machines in Greater Dandenong under the regional EGM cap.
Currently there are 928 electronic gaming machines in 14 pubs and clubs in the municipality, less than the cap of 989.
A Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) spokesperson has confirmed it hasn’t received applications for additional poker machines in Greater Dandenong.
“The VGCCC monitors venues for compliance with important harm safeguards requirements, including those in relation to minors and self-excluded persons gambling.
BUSINESS IN FOCUS
“The VGCCC will take appropriate enforcement action where there has been breaches of requirements of law.”
Despite being a low socio-economic area, City of Greater Dandenong has the secondhighest pokies losses per adult in Victoria, with gamblers spending $138 million on electronic gaming machines (EGMs) in 2023-’24, according to the council report.
This is equivalent to $1,089 per adult, or losses of $378,000 a day. It is also equal to the cost of adequately feeding 46,000 children for a whole year. A council report identified young men with limited formal education as susceptible to EGMs.
A Victorian Government spokesperson said they have worked on significant reforms to reduce gambling harms such as, mandatory closure periods from 4am-10am for gaming areas in all Victorian hotels and clubs, reducing spin rates on new gaming machines, reducing of how much gamblers can load onto a machine from $1000 down to $100, and limiting EFTPOS cash withdrawals to $500 per card in 24 hours.
“Gambling harm has consequences, not just for the person gambling but for everyone around them,” a Victorian Government spokespersons said.
“That’s why we’ve already passed nationleading reforms that provide important protections and put control back in the hands of patrons.
“Our trial of account-based play for pokies machines is expected to start later this yearwe’ll work hand in glove with the industry and stakeholders on this, and we’ll have more to say soon.”
The gaming machine regional cap will remain at its current level until 2042.
Snow, slides and street food
Springvale is set to sparkle this winter as the much-loved Springvale Snow Fest returns on Sunday 27 July 2025, transforming the heart of the city into a frosty playground of fun for all ages.
Now in its 13th year, this free community event brings the magic of snow to Buckingham Avenue, where families can dive into the frosty fun with a dedicated area full of snow to sculpt and play.
This year’s festival promises even more attractions, with thrilling amusement rides, and multicultural live entertainment showcasing Springvale’s rich cultural identity. Crowds can wander through vibrant market stalls, feast on global cuisine from bustling food trucks and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Little ones can enjoy a special children’s activity zone with winter arts and crafts, while the adventurous can tackle the towering slide or test their aim at carnival-style games.
Street performers and roving entertainers will add to the excitement, making every corner of the precinct come alive with energy and colour. Snap a fun memory in our photobooth or get crafty and design a snow themed keepsake to bring home.
Don’t miss your chance to connect with our major sponsor Optus as they host a range of fun and community-friendly experiences.
Whether you’re chasing a nostalgic snow day or discovering the magic for the first time, celebrate winter in Springvale with a day full of wonder, discovery and memorable moments – right in the heart of the suburbs. Don’t miss it.
Springvale Snow Fest
• Buckingham Avenue, Springvale
• Sunday 27 July
• 11pm – 6pm
(Gary Sissons: 244718)
This year’s festival promises even more attractions, with thrilling amusement rides.
There will be multicultural live entertainment showcasing Springvale’s rich cultural identity.
The free community event brings the magic of snow to Buckingham Avenue.
Part two of Olivier’s odyssey
BY LEE MCCARTHY
This week, we continue to explore the adventures of Noosa-based Olivier Miller and her husband Ian.
Olivier is the owner and principal of four Laguna real estate offices on the Sunshine Coast and Gympie, specialising in prestige and waterfront properties. The two have travelled extensively by sea and land throughout Olivier’s 40-year real estate career.
They recently returned from the 23-day Viking ‘European Sojourn’ sailing three rivers and eight countries.
Olivier said her most favourite place was Budapest (Hungary).
“A very lively country, the tours took us right into the CBD and of course a lot of churches and castles but the architecture and the actual port was virtually in the heart of town, so we got a really good sense of what it had to offer. This was a highlight.
“Because of the size and construction Viking can get closer to ports which makes the trip easier and more special because we could walk off the boat.
“In Kalosca, Hungary we travelled to a local farm which bred horses and saw a horse show. It is the town where paprika is from so we went to a paprika museum and had a day in the country.”
“In Osijek, Croatia we went into a local’s house and had morning tea, and she made a plum liquor and pancake, and the houses are all very neat and tidy with lovely hosts.”
“The weather ranged from eight degrees to about twenty-one with the average 14 to 20 degrees, so we layered up as it was nice in the sun.”
“In Serbia we saw the Iron Gate which was impressive, and we enjoyed our time when we were on the boat lounging and weather permitting on the top deck.”
“We had a couple of days in Bulgaria and then Bucharest which was another of my favourites. There were lots of historic and cobble stone alleys, inns and shops and the biggest Parliament House I have ever seen. We had a bit of fun there as well and we left the cruise there.
Olivier noted that the embarking process was straightforward, and they stayed at the Marriott, a large hotel with ample space.
“Once again, the food on the boat was always buffet breakfast from about 7am to 10am and the wait staff were exceptional. For lunch, the choice was the deck or downstairs which had a western menu as well as a local menu which changed daily depending on where we stayed,” she said.
After we embarked, we were again looked after by Viking staff and then transported to Transylvania and once again took tours including Dracula’s castle and we were then escorted to the airport and virtually escorted to the ticket counter, and it was amazing.”
“For those who find travel daunting, Viking do this very very well. We can’t praise the staff enough, they were all brilliant and if someone said would I recommend it I would say definitely,” she said.
“They have a tour director on that boat which was amazing and nothing was too much trouble. There were so many highlights, and you can do as much or as little as you like.”
“As a foursome we really enjoyed what we did and had a lot of laughs.”
“You do have opportunities to interact with other people, and I did notice a lot of Aussies did mix well.
“If there was one thing I noticed from start to finish it was the Viking staff were absolutely six stars with our room cleaned twice a day and anything you asked for addressed immediately.”
For more information on Viking please call 138 747 or visit www.viking.com
Kalocsa, the birthplace of paprika and a chance to have a day in the country and a horse show.
Sail through one of Europe’s most dramatic natural wonders, the picturesque stretch famously known as the Iron Gate.
Ian and Olivier Miller enjoy the sights of Bucharest. All photos supplied.
Riverside beauty and a vibrant cultural scene blend together in Budapest to form one of Europe’s most rewarding cities.
CHRISTMAS ON THE RHINE
Amsterdam to Basel or vice versa
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CHRISTMAS ON THE RHINE & MOSELLE
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Immerse yourself in the holiday traditions of this Swiss town along the banks of Lake Lucerne, its
markets set against the dramatic backdrop of the Alps. A guided stroll will take you to see the 14th-century Chapel Bridge and baroque churches of the
CHRISTMAS ON THE RHINE
AND MAIN
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11 DAYS | 3 COUNTRIES | 9 GUIDED TOURS
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From $8,995pp in Standard Stateroom
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ATRIUM CHRISTMAS DECOR, VIKING EIR
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Your Holiday Includes
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Complimentary Flights, Taxes & Transfers
Market’s plastic singled out
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Takeaway coffee cups for dine-in customers will be discouraged at cafes on council land, as part of Greater Dandenong’s revised policy to reduce single-use plastics.
The “discretionary” policy also pushes to deter single-use plastic bags, plates, bowls, takeaway containers, bottled drinks, glow sticks, confetti and balloons being used on council property.
The draft policy applies to council events and festivals as well as leisure centres and sports clubs.
A notable exemption remains for Dandenong Market.
Greater Dandenong councillors endorsed the policy on 14 July.
However, Crs Lana Formoso and Bob Milkovic queried the exemption for Dandenong Market.
Cr Milkovic questioned why there was no timeframe for bringing the market stallholders’ prolific use of plastic bags under the policy.
“I asked the question why there are plastic bags still allowed at Dandenong Market?
“If you’re going to do something about (the issue), we should do it right.”
Cr Formoso said the council was “ahead of its time” being one of only three in Melbourne with such policies.
However the council needed to engage with Dandenong Market’s board on the issue.
“I get it may be hard and inconvenient for our demographic, but it’s the right step forward.”
According to a council report, the exemption was due to private traders negotiating their leases
LOOKING BACK
100 years ago 23 July 1925
DANDENONG STATION
PROMISES NOT HONOURED
Cr Tharle, Shire President, referred at a meeting of the Dandenong Improvement Association on Monday to the visit of the Railways Standing Committee to Dandenong. He stated that the plans of the Department were unanimously approved, with the exception of the removal of the trucking yards. Amongst the improvements were the construction of a subway in place of the present overhead bridge at the station, and the erection of a bridge at Bennet Street for the convenience of children attending the new school at Dandenong West. Secretary of the Railway Committee said that the present scheme did not provide for anything in the way of improving and enlarging the railway station to allow for more comfort and convenience for the public. The present station was an absolute disgrace. There was a distinct promise months before that the booking office would be attended to at once, as it was a small job, but nothing had been done.
INTERFAITH
with the Dandenong Market Management Board rather than the council.
Bans on selling plastic goods such as party supplies at the market would also go beyond the state’s plastics ban and would restrict trade.
The council will instead support Dandenong Market and traders to implement their “own approach to reducing the impacts of single-use and soft plastics”.
Also exempt are activities that don’t require an event permit or hire agreement, such as a kid’s party in a park.
The emphasis is on discouraging soft plastics through education and engagement of traders, businesses and clubs, according to the council report.
The bridge at Bennet Street and Railway Parade foreshadowed in 1925 has been recently identified as a high-priority fix by Greater Dandenong Council. The absence of footpaths and no pedestrian lights had created a notorious hazard for pedestrians and cyclists.
(Gary Sissons: 271845)
50 years ago 21 July 1975 ‘PAY CRS.’ PLAN ATTACKED
Payment for councillors would place an unwarranted burden on ratepayers, it was claimed in Dandenong council last week. Councillor Ian Fotheringham (West Ward) added: “We should
“Overall, the policy aims to achieve an appropriate balance between reducing single use plastics while ensuring activities undertaken on Council owned and/ or managed land can continue without unreasonably impacting on operations.”
The policy adds the possibility of reuseable cups for dine-in customers at cafes on Council land – as part of lease agreements with the council.
The recently opened Lucky Lulu Cafe at Springvale Community Hub was an example.
Greater Dandenong community strengthening executive director Peta Gillies said it was working with Lucky Lulu Cafe to consider discounts for bringing reusable cups and sustainable dine-in options.
“This is in accordance with the Single Use
be looking at ways of decreasing costs, not increasingthem.”Hewascommentingonareport Springvale council will submit to the Municipal Association a proposal for a scale of rates for payment to councillors attending council committee and other meetings on behalf of council. Successfully moving that Dandenong not support the idea, Councillor Fotheringham said: “For years councillors have served in an honorary capacity, 100 percent efficiently. Greater achievement has been made by voluntary work, but I fear the day is approaching, when councillors will, unfortunately, be paid.” 20 years ago
18 July 2005
Heroic return
Smash boy back at school
Six-year-old Sabi Mashad, who had his foot amputated after a car ploughed through the fence at Dandenong West Primary School in February, returned to school last Friday. His grade 1 and 2 classmates answered “yes” when asked whether they were happy to have their wheelchair-bound friend back at school. Sabi wasn’t too fussed about all the attention – he was
Plastic Policy, which seeks to minimise the amount of single use plastics utilised within their operations.”
For two years, Greater Dandenong Environment Group (GDEG) has fought for hot drinks in crockery cups at the six-star sustainability-rated hub’s outlet.
It had taken issue with the previous cafe operator’s single-use, disposable cups.
However the previous operator Frankie & Co at the time said reuseable cups were not viable at the Hub.
Hand-washing and drying porcelain cups cost litres of water and staff time, it claimed.
Instead it used biodegradable cardboard cups, which could be disposed in recycling bins.
The council didn’t propose a ban on sports clubs and leisure centres selling plastic bottled water and sports drinks, a council report stated. They were still reportedly important sources of revenue for the clubs and centres. Non-plastic packaging was more costly or not available for some brands of sports drinks.
However, Noble Park Junior Football Club’s canteen had made the switch from single-use plastic bottles to cans, the report noted.
The single use plastic policy is an update of the council’s 2019 policy, which the council claims has led to significantly less single-use plastics at Council events.
The council has also staged pop-up activations for Plastic Free July, a Borrow-A-Bag venture at Dandenong Market and CERES Leadership Day for students.
more intent on drawing a frog. “I am just doing some work. I have been colouring in and drawing a frog,” he said. Sabi is expected to be fitted with a prosthesis in about a month.
5 years ago
21 July 2020
‘Masks on’ order
Mask wearing will become mandatory as Melbourne’s alarming Covid-19 spike spreads into Greater Dandenong and the South-East. After weeks of little infection, Greater Dandenong gained 31 in the seven days up to 19 July. Its active cases rose from four to 33. Recent clusters have been reported at Endeavour Hills shopping centre, TD Cabinets in Dandenong South and Australian Pharmaceutical Industries in Dandenong. In neighbouring Casey, there were 62 new cases in the past week, making a total of 70 active cases. With Victorian cases soaring by 1900 in the past week, Premier Dan Andrews announced that mask wearing will be compulsory outside the home. A $200 fine will apply for not wearing a mask, except for medical reasons, children under 12 and during exercise like running.
It’s all about what’s inside you and your motivation
Byy David Moffat of Swedenborg Community Victoria
You want to make big changes in your life, like be ing healthier or more patient.
You know these changes are good for you.
But it often feels like life keeps asking, “Are you sure? Are you REALLY sure? Are you SERIOUS?!” Why is it so tough to actually do the good things we aim for?
It’s All About What’s Inside You
The biggest reason it’s so hard isn’t usually outside problems. It’s more about what’s going on inside your head and your heart.
If you really want to make lasting changes, the first important step is to honestly look at yourself.
It can be hard, like looking at your flaws, but it helps to know what you’re truly up against. Think of it like taking a “fearless look” at yourself, as groups like Alcoholics Anonymous suggest. This isn’t about feeling bad; it’s about understanding the hidden thoughts, habits, and feelings deep inside you that actually fight against your good intentions.
MESSAGE OF HOPE
This inner struggle is often the strongest challenge you’ll face.
Once you know yourself better, you need to start practicing.
Knowing what the problems are and how to fix them isn’t enough.
You actually have to push yourself to do the work, regularly.
It’s like training for a sport – you have to keep showing up and doing the drills, even when you don’t feel like it.
Don’t Blame Others (or Look for the Easy Way Out).
Often, when we’re trying to reach a goal, we look for others for help or support.
Then, we get upset or angry when they don’t seem as committed as we are.
What we miss is that everyone else has their own inner world – their own goals, hopes, and fears.
They’re focused on their own journey, not necessarily yours.
Sometimes, it might even feel like people are actively trying to stop you.
In these moments, we usually don’t really know why they’re acting that way.
Instead, our own inner world decides they’re against us.
This can make us want to fight back, or even feel superior, like we’re better than them for sticking to our principles.
But this fight outside often just distracts us from the real work we need to do on ourselves.
Deep down, we often just want things to be easy.
We wish we could reach our goals without much effort.
But truly doing good things and making real changes usually isn’t easy.
It takes honest effort from inside you and consistent action in the outside world.
Enquiries regarding the Interfaith Network, City of Greater Dandenong: administration@interfaithnetwork.org.au or 8774 7662
Dandenong Market remains exempt from Greater Dandenong’s single-use plastic policy.
(Gary Sissons: 408089)
David Moffat.
Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society
WHAT’S ON
Springvale Snowfest
Dive into the snowy fun at the snow play areas or have a go at building your own snowman in the snowman factory. Photobooth, food trucks, amusement rides ($3-$12) and live entertainment.
· Sunday 27 July, 11am-6pm at Buckingham Avenue, Springvale. Free event.
Tirhatuan Park tree planting
Plant seedlings as part of National Tree Day weekend. Includes Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, wildlife presentations, planting activities, a free barbecue lunch and native plant giveaways. Bring drinking water, warm clothes, suitable footwear, a pair of gloves and a hand towel to wipe your hands with.
· Saturday 26 July, 10am-1pm at Tirhatuan Park, 4 Kriegel Way, Dandenong North. Free event, register at greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/events/planting-daytirhatuan
Somerfield Reserve tree planting
Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, planting activities, native plant giveaways, a wildlife presentation, a free barbecue lunch. Bring drinking water, warm clothes, suitable footwear, a pair of gloves and a hand towel to wipe your hands with.
· Sunday 27 July, 10am-1pm at Somerfield Reserve, Eastbury Street, Keysborough. Free event, register at greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ national-tree-day
Reworlding Dandenong
Join artist and academic Troy Innocent for an immersive role-playing game on the streets of Dandenong in 2050. Join a three-hour guided, interactive experience in public spaces, culminating in a collective world building workshop. Part of the HOME 25 Invisible Cities roving exhibition. Children under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult.
· Saturdays 2 August-30 August, 10am-1pm at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, cnr Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong. Free event, register at greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ greater-dandenong-council/events/reworldingdandenong-troy-innocent
Dandenong Market Winter Feast
Free ice-skating rink, soul-warming comfort food,
live DJ, free face painting.
· Sunday 3 August, 10am-3pm at Dandenong Market, cnr Clow and Cleeland streets, Dandenong. Free entry.
Pop-up blood donor centre
Do you have time to give blood and change lives? Australian Red Cross is popping up in central Dandenong to take blood donations.
· Monday 4 August - Friday 8 August at St Mary’s Community Centre, New Street, Dandenong. Registrations required at lifeblood.com.au/donor-centre/vic/dandenong-pop-up-donor-centre View Club
Dandenong Evening View Club’s next guest speaker is James Wall from GardenWorld. Join us for an enjoyable and entertaining event, including dinner.
· Tuesday 5 August at Dandenong RSL, 6:30pm for a 7pm start. To book your meal, call Rose 0430 443 065.
Craft at NPCC
From floristry and paper craft, to painting and macrame, discover your creative flair with our casual art and craft group. Enjoy variety as each week the activity of choice will differ from the last.
· Thursdays 11am at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $5 per class. Wellness for Men
Each week discover new opportunities to develop new skills and share stories developing meaningful connections with other men. Weekly new topics with occasional guest speakers, some of these nights including BBQ or pizza nights.
· Wednesdays 7pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $45 per term.
Beginners Line Dancing
A line dance is a choreographed dance in which a group of people dance along to a repeating sequence of steps while arranged in one or more lines or rows. These lines usually face all in the same direction, or less commonly face each other.
Mondays 1.45pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $5 per session.
HOME 25: Invisible Cities
HOME 25: Invisible Cities is a new roving exhibition in the streets and sites of Dandenong, showcasing works of a selection of refugee, asylum
seeker, First Nations and migrant artists. Public art sites at Dandenong Library, Harmony Square, Garnar Lane, Walker Street, Palm Plaza as well as HOME stand at Dandenong Market. Also exhibitions and shows at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Cenre, Drum Theatre and Heritage Hill Museum.
· Runs until 27 September. Details: greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/ events/home-25-invisible-cities-exhibition Market memoirs
HOME 25: Invisible Cities stand at Dandenong Market features a weekly series of intimate interviews telling personal stories of migration, and the food, culture, and traditions they’ve carried with them.
· Saturdays 10am-2pm until 20 September at Dandenong Market, cnr Clow and Cleeland streets, Dandenong. Details: greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/ events/market-memoirs
Hallam Friends of Red Cross
Hallam Friends of Red Cross will be closing down, with our last meeting at Prince Mark Hotel on Tuesday 22 July at 12 noon. We wish to thank the community, and Hallam community learn centre for their support for the last 46 years.
Free mental health support
Mental Health and Wellbeing Local are offering free support at the Springvale Community Hub if you would like to talk to someone about your mental health and wellbeing. For people aged 26 years and over. You don’t need a referral, Medicare card or visa. Interpreters available. Walk-ins welcome.
· Mondays, 10am to 2pm at Springvale Community Hub (Meeting Room 2), 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Free event. Details: 8908 1800 or dandenonglocal@mindaustralia.org.au
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.
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. “WE” - Women’s Empowerment Workshops
DevelopedfordisadvantagedwomeninCulturallyand 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.Freeevent.Details:Rachel,0491144836or 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.
Thunderous Dandy victory
By Justin Schwarze
Dandenong Thunder got back onto the winner’s list after handling business 0-2 away at Port Melbourne in round 22 of the NPL.
Not many scoring chances presented for either side in the first half, with Dandenong managing just two shots for the half and one on target.
The hosts had three total shots and two were on target, but neither team troubled the scorers when the whistle was blown for the main intermission.
In the second half, Thunder struck first through a set piece after they were awarded a corner in the 59th minute.
Mersim Memeti sent in the ball long and onto the forehead of Daniel Alessi.
Alessi brought the ball down, where Hassan Jalloh was waiting on the goal line to turn it in and give the visitors a 0-1 lead.
The goal is Jalloh’s 11th of the season, leaving him in fourth place for the league goalscoring tally.
Just a minute later, things went from bad to
worse for the Sharks when defender Will Gillingham was shown red after pushing Jalloh off the ball following an aerial duel in Dandenong’s attacking half.
It didn’t take long for Thunder to capitalise on the man advantage when they found a second off yet another set piece.
A long corner whipped in found its way to Memeti at the back post, who calmly guided his header into the back of the net to double Dandenong’s lead.
From there, Thunder coasted to the result and convincingly took the four points.
Dandenong had five shots on target for the match, scoring two from 11 shots total while Port Melbourne only managed four shots and two on target in the contest.
Thunder sit third in the NPL table with 13 wins, five draws and four losses, drawing two points closer to Avondale after the Avengers drew with Dandenong City.
Dandenong will be looking to get another three points in round 23 when bottom-of-thetable Melbourne Knights visit George Andrews Reserve.
Rejuvenated City pulls out solid result against Avondale
By Justin Schwarze
A refreshed and rejuvenated Dandenong City capitalised on the break as the club drew against second-placed Avondale 1-1 on the road in round 22 of the NPL.
The first half was fought in midfield and neither side produced many big chances, with the hosts firing two shots on target to Dandenong’s one.
As a result, neither team found the back of the net in the first half.
The Avengers found the breakthrough in the 61st minute, completing catching City off guard when the visitors were dispossessed in midfield. It left the defence vulnerable, with one quick
pass being played into a sprinting Yusuf Ahmed. Ahmed took advantage of the space and fired the ball past Matthew Marrum and into the net while being tackled.
Dandenong searched for the remainder of the half for an equaliser but couldn’t seem to generate a major chance.
That was until heavy pressure in the middle of the pitch saw the visitors steal possession and launch on a counter attack in the 87th minute.
The ball came out to Malik Abuusba on the right wing, who was held up but kept his composure and waited for more cavalry to arrive.
He spotted Valli Cesnik cutting through the box and hit him with a perfectly placed pass, al-
lowing Cesnik to get within close range and fire it home to knot the game up.
When the referee blew the whistle for full time, City had shared the points with Avondale, a very impressive result as the Avengers currently sit second on the table.
The hosts had four shots on target to Dandenong’s three, coming from 13 shots to City’s nine.
Dandenong still remains in seventh, with the result being the club’s ninth draw for the season to go along with seven wins and six losses.
City has yet another test awaiting in round 23 as the club welcomes fourth-placed Oakleigh to Frank Holohan Soccer Complex.
Demon domination as poor Eagles struggle in Southern
By Blair Burns
Bentleigh remains in fourth position on the Southern Division 1 ladder as it recorded its best win of the season; a percentage-boosting 94-point victory over struggling Cranbourne.
The Demons dominated with the wind in the first quarter with 18 scoring shots to one, taking a 57-point lead into the first break.
This was extended out to 101 points by three quarter time as Thomas Dowsing dominated with six majors.
The Eagles kicked four of their five goals in the final term, but it remained their worst loss of the year as they sit on the bottom of the ladder with a 2-11 record.
As expected, Dingley was too strong for East Brighton thanks to a four-goal performance from Mitchell Cook which helped his side to a comfortable 36-point victory.
The Dingoes led by only five points at half time, but came home strong to win and maintain their spot on top of the ladder – two wins clear of St Paul’s McKinnon.
Port Melbourne’s forwards didn’t have their kicking boots on as the side kicked 3.16 to lose by 26 points against St Paul’s McKinnon.
It was a real opportunity gone begging for the Colts who kicked 0.8 in the second quarter, while keeping the Bulldogs scoreless – to lead by four points at half time.
A four-goal-to-zero final term helped Cheltenham to a come-from-behind victory over Narre Warren, overturning a three-point deficit to win by 22 points.
Nobody kicked more than two goals on the
day with Jesse Davies (Narre Warren) and Rex Kilburn (Cheltenham) named their team’s best players.
Despite Murrumbeena’s best effort against Springvale Districts, the Lions fell short by 23 points with Springy sitting fifth on the ladder.
Josh Bradley kicked four goals in the victory, while Hudson Thomas and Adam Read also impressed.
Hampton Park didn’t let a slow start or the fact that the side was trailing at three-quarter time stop it from defeating second-placed East
Malvern by 17 points in Division 2.
The Redbacks kicked 33-0 in the final term with five unanswered goals and some Dylan Morris brilliance capping off a great day for the club and helping the team all but secure top spot on the ladder.
Highett is in fourth position on the ladder after defeating Caulfield Bears by 17 points, now two games safe within the top five.
The Bulldogs trailed by 13 points going into the fourth quarter but utilised the wind, doubling their score as Ben Kenny and Rhys Wilkinson (three goals each) led the way.
Despite still sitting two wins above Frankston, Mordialloc would’ve been hoping to record a win over the Dolphins, but it wasn’t to be.
Frankston had a strong last quarter as it kicked four goals to one on its way to a healthy 32-point victory.
It was the Erishmiilan Uthayakumar show as the Chelsea Heights forward booted seven goals in a huge 85-point victory over Doveton.
Scores were level at quarter time after the Doves had the wind in the first term, but they were smashed against the breeze as the Demons kicked 91 points across quarters two and four.
A couple of goals against the wind in third quarter helped propel Keysborough to its sixth win of the season, as it kicked four final-quarter goals to defeat Endeavour Hills by 29 points.
Ethan Bakes, Simon Marchese and Thomas Shaw all kicked two goals for the Burras in the victory, while Dylan McKenzie had plenty of the ball.
Bailey Buntine battled hard for Cranbourne, but his side was completely outplayed. (Stewart Chambers: 488310)
Hassan Jalloh was on the scoresheet again for Dandenong Thunder. (Supplied)
Valli Cesnik scored the equaliser for Dandenong City in the 1-1 draw with Avondale. (Supplied)
Brave Bulls in the September box seat
By David Nagel
Noble Park has bounced back to the winners’ list and sits in fifth position with five rounds remaining in Eastern Premier Division after the Bulls posted a 57-point victory over bottom-placed Mitcham on Saturday.
The travelling Bulls were right on cue from the outset, plundering six goals to one in the opening term to take a 32-point lead to the first change.
Lachie McDonnell, Scott McInerney, Thomas Taborsky, Jacob Noble, Ben Marson and Harry Broderick were all in fine form for the visitors, who extended their lead at every change.
McInerney and Joshua Stern kicked three each for the winners, while Broderick and Matt Nelson
chimed in with a couple each.
The Bulls face a huge challenge this week, hosting top-of-the-table East Ringwood at Pat Wright Oval.
Meanwhile, Rowville’s form continues to fluctuate after the Hawks were beaten at home by 13 points by seventh-placed South Croydon.
Since defeating East Ringwood in round nine, the Hawks have now lost three of their past four to relinquish any chance of a double chance this season.
Matt Evans, Tom Swainston and Mav Taylor kicked two each for the Hawks, while Tom Sheridan was the match-winner with four goals for the Bulldogs.
Rowville’s challenge gets no easier this week,
facing a visit to second-placed Blackburn. EASTERN PREMIER
Results R13: Mitcham 6.9(45) def by Noble Park 15.12(102), Doncaster East 4.9(33) def by East Ringwood 10.5(65), Rowville 8.10(58) def by South Croydon 10.11(71), Blackburn 14.20(104) def Vermont 5.12(42), Balwyn 12.15(87) def Berwick 6.14(50).
Ladder: East Ringwood 44, Blackburn 44, Balwyn 40, Rowville 28, Noble Park 28/ Doncaster East 20, South Croydon 20, Vermont 20, Berwick 12, Mitcham 4.
Fixture R14: Noble Park (5) v East Ringwood (1), South Croydon (7) v Balwyn (3), Blackburn (2) v Rowville (4), Berwick (9) v Vermont (8), Mitcham (10) v Doncaster East (6).
Super Stingrays in action for Vic Country
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Dandenong Stingrays pair Mizuki and Nalu Brothwell were both gallant in Vic Country’s 4.6(30) to 12.8(80) loss against Vic Metro on Sunday afternoon at RSEA Park, Moorabbin.
Mizuki finished with 19 disposals and eight intercept possessions, while her twin sister had 16 disposals and four tackles.
Tall forward Alice Cunnington was one of her side’s two goal scorers, slotting a pair of goals, while showcasing her aerial prowess by also taking five marks from her 13 possessions.
The hard working Lilly Snow and bottom-ager Matilda Argus also had their moments, while ruck Sophie White and forward Evelyn Connolly were also in action.
Five Dandenong Stingrays, meanwhile, were in action in Vic Country’s surprise 14.10(94) to 9.10(64) victory over Vic Metro.
Late squad addition Jasper Russell was the best of the lot, gathering 21 disposals, particularly busy with his intercepting and drive in the first half.
Melbourne Next Generation Academy prospect Toby Sinnema had some moments on the wing, as did Cal Smith, who mixed his time between defence and the midfield.
Key forward Tairon Ah-Mu was quiet, while Noah Hibbins-Hargreaves didn’t play the game out due to injury.
Vic Country finished the carnival with a 2-2 record with top pick contender Willem Duursma from Gippsland taking out the team’s MVP.
Jasper Russell in action for Vic Country. (Riley Lockett/AFL Photos)
Wright
the Mountain Dart League season. (Supplied: 491091)
Darts begin
By David Nagel
An exciting new season of the Mountain Dart League (MDL) kicked off on Friday night with the MDL moving with the times and using online system ‘Dart Connect’ to now record the key statistics of the competition.
But while things have changed significantly in that regard, some things have remained constant and consistent at the oche, with reigning Division 1 premier High 5’s kick-starting its season in style.
High 5’s moved straight to the top of the ladder, with Dean Gibbs throwing eight tons on the night and Paul Tune a maximum 180 in a comfortable win over Redbacks.
Damien Hammond flew the flag for Redbacks, throwing a classy 113 finish.
The Chiefs were also impressive, producing many individual highlights in a strong win over Out Casts.
Harry Pearce threw the highest score of the night with a 142, while Stuart Taylor and Troy Gray had the radar dialled in with 124 peg-outs.
MDDA Bullseyes are on the winner’s list early, scoring a hard-fought win over Noble Park 1, despite David Putt throwing eight tons on the night for Noble.
And Rebels narrowly defeated Check Out to sit in third place on the ladder after round one.
In Division 2, Ash Canfor and Bernie Vaughan threw stylish 180s in a first-up win for The Bandits over Black Bulls, while The Night Trawlers proved too strong for Redbacks 2 on the opening night of the season.
And in Division 3, Joyce Grigg threw a magnificent 171 in a big win for The Goodies over Madarras, while a big night from Brad Brooks wasn’t enough to get Stingers across the line against Vales 3.
Brooks threw a perfect 180 and took home the highest peg of 80, but Vales 3 got across the line after a great team effort from Graham Knight, Gunther Czmok, Hank Kollner, Mal Carey, Moana Tutera and Nga Tutera.
DIVISION 1
• Results R1: MDDA Bullseyes def Noble Park 1 (6-3), High 5’s def Redbacks 1 (90), The Chiefs def Out Casts (6-3), Rebels def Check Out (5-4).
• Ladder: High 5’s 4, MDDA Bullseyes 4, Rebels 4, The Chiefs 4, Out Casts 0, Check Out 0, Noble Park (1) 0, Redbacks (1) 0.
• Most Tons: Dean Gibbs 8, David Putt 8.
• 180s: Paul Tune.
• Highest Score: Harry Pearce 142.
• Highest Peg: Stuart Taylor 124, Troy Gray 124, Damien Hammond 113.
DIVISION 2
• Results R1: The Night Trawlers def Redbacks 2 (7-2), The Bandits def MDDA Black Bulls (7-2). Bye: Spectrum.
• Ladder: The Night Trawlers 4, The Bandits 4, MDDA Black Bulls 0, Redbacks (2) 0, Spectrum 0.
• Most Tons: Adam Canfor 5, Shane Taylor 4, Ash Canfor 4.
• 180s: Ash Canfor, Bernie Vaughan.
• Highest Peg: Ash Canfor 78, Neil Phillips 70.
DIVISION 3
• Results R1: The Goodies def Madarras (53), Vales 3 def Stingers (6-3). Bye: Stingrays.
• Ladder: Vales (3) 4, The Goodies 4, Madarras 0, Stingers 0, Stingrays 0.
• Most Tons: Bradley Brooks 7, Steve Clark 5.
• 180s: Bradley Brooks.
• Highest Score: Joyce Grigg 171.
• Highest Peg: Bradley Brooks 80.
Brent
throws one down for Madarras in a hard-fought loss to The Goodies on the opening night of
Noble Park sits in fifth place on the ladder after a 57-point victory over Mitcham on Saturday. (Rob Carew: 488313)
