Bakhtar Community Organisation CEO Bassir Qadiri was shocked to discover his charity was locked out of its makeshift warehouse in Noble Park last week.
After long-running negotiations, Greater Dandenong Council, which owns the
land, is now set to demolish the building to make way for public open space.
As a result, Qadiri says a legion of families-in-need who arrived at the facility were knocked back.
More on the story, turn to page 3
It started with an astonishing phone call.
Star News was asked if it could deliver a bulk drop of newspapers for bored patients in Dandenong Hospital emergency department (ED).
The caller explained that patients in wait of mental health beds were languishing in the ED for up to four or five days.
It sounded scarcely believable.
Until we had a look of the official stats.
According to the latest quarterly report for April-June 2025, just 5 per cent of Dandenong adult patients were transferred from ED to a mental health bed within 8 hours. It was even worse at Casey, which recorded 0 per cent.
In other parts of Melbourne, the outcomes ranged from 36 per cent to 78 per cent.
Monash Health has yet to respond as to why there’s such an alarming disparity.
However, mental health beds in Dandenong seem full to capacity - 99 per cent occupied, according to official stats.
Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia says more psychosocial support services are required to support people living safely in the community and reduce hospital admissions.
Mental health beds were at the lowest per capita on record, it found.
Ten per cent of patients spent more than 23 hours waiting.
More on the story, turn to page 9
A report by the Australian Medical Association last year found patients spent an average of seven hours in an ED before being admitted to mental health care in 2022-‘23.
In the flush of Spring, a charitable service by Freemasons volunteers offering free gardening and maintenance has been launched in Greater Dandenong.
With a trailer of tools, the Gather My Lodge crew will offer free weeding, lawn mowing and other gardening duties to elderly and unwell households in the Freemason’s South East Mornington district.
It was launched by Freemasons Victoria’s Grand Master and Deputy Grand Master, as well as Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti in Keysborough on 5 October.
The volunteers are following a similar Masonic crew who have helped 300 clients in the Bayside council area over the past six years.
“It started with them helping people they knew who were financially disadvantaged or aged and unable to adequately look after their homes,” Grand Master Peter Henshall said.
“That concept grew, they got referred to a number of people in the community and they petitioned our Freemasons Foundation for a trailer and gardening tools – which we provided.”
Henshall says he hopes Gather My Lodge crews will branch out into all 12 of Freemasons Victoria’s districts.
“If we can get these 12 units, we will have effectively a mobile taskforce to employ in the event of state emergencies.
“We will be able to assist wherever we will be of benefit to the relevant authorities.”
In the past, Masonic volunteers have helped to replace fences destroyed across the state during Black Saturday or overseen car parking at disaster stations.
Freemasons raised more than $1 million for grants to Black Saturday victims, as well as a $40,000, 10-year scholarship program at three affected primary schools.
Rotarians marked an extraordinary 90 years in Dandenong with a packed dinner at Dandenong Club on Saturday 5 October.
Dozens including friends, families and Greater Dandenong councillors joined in the Rotary Club of Dandenong and Endeavour Hills’s milestone event.
Club president John Ternel said the night was filled with history, fellowship and pride in decades of community service.
“It was truly inspiring – a proud moment that captures the very essence of Rotary’s motto Service Above Self.”
On proud display was a stunning celebration cake, as well as a copy of a bulletin recording the then-Rotary Club of Dandenong’s first meeting at Royal Hotel in April 1935.
In a coup for the fledgling club, Rotary’s founder and president emeritus Paul Harris had travelled from the US to attend that very first meeting 90 years ago. Adding a special touch to the celebration, Past District Governor Ken McDonald and his wife Margaret joined the gathering via FaceTime to share their reflections and congratulations.
Greater Dandenong deputy mayor Sophie Tan and councillors Lana Formoso and Rhonda Garad also attended.
Rotarians gather to mark 90 years in Dandenong.
(Gary Sissons: 506790)
By Sahar Foladi
Dandenong Primary School’s principal took on a fun sandwich wrapping competition as part of a campaign to ensure students have lunch at schools.
With a DJ on site with rows of trestle tables, prinicipal Daniel Riley joined around 100 volunteers including those from the corporate world assembling a total of 6001 sandwiches within one hour.
This is as part of the ‘Spread Kindness’ campaign in partnership with T.House a not-for-profit Online Lifestyle Platform, and Eat Up, who supports the growing number of kids going to school without lunch at Half Acre in South Melbourne.
Dandenong Primary School is also a beneficiary of Eat Up with lunch deliveries, including
yoghurt packs, snacks and sandwiches, delivered every three-weeks for up to 20 students.
Principal, Daniel Riley was invited by Eat Up to participate and was on Glad wrap station.
He said he lost count at 20, estimating around 200 sandwiches he wrapped on Wednesday 8 October.
“It was amazing. It was my first time, I heard about them - seen pictures and stories but it was good to experience it first-hand.
“My job was to keep up with the sandwich makers, to Glad Wrap it up.
“For kids who come to school with no lunch they are getting the nutrition they need which means they can focus on learning and not worry about when the next food is coming from.”
The sandwiches were to be distributed to schools in South Melbourne but Mr Riley says he
may recognise a few of his “badly wrapped” sandwiches at the school’s next delivery. He was glad to provide some help after seeing the extensive impact the organisations make in
the lives of the children.
Prior to becoming a principal at the school for 9 years, he says he worked at other disadvantaged areas and settings, who benefited from Eat Up.
The event was hosted by Hawthorn and Gold Coast AFL footballer Campbell Brown.
Since 2013, Eat Up has provided over five million lunches to Australian children in need, and is on track to deliver 1.2 million lunches alone in 2025.
This is through the dedication and commitment of over 20,000 volunteers who produce more than 30,000 sandwiches every school week. Despite these figures, demand remains to be on rise with a wait-list of 600 schools.
T.House supports disadvantaged Australian children with access to healthcare, shelter, and food.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A refugee charity founder says he is shocked after his group was evicted from Greater Dandenong Council-owned storage buildings in Noble Park North.
After months of negotiations, Bakhtar Community Organisation was locked out of the former Noble Park Scout Hall and sheds on Wednesday 8 October.
The buildings filled with donated household goods, clothes and furniture are set for demolition as part of the council’s long-held plans for public open space.
Families who came for help were turned away and sent home empty-handed, according to Bakhtar.
Chief executive Bassir Qadiri says locks were changed and the Heyington Crescent site fenced off, without the council offering a “viable alternative or transition plan”.
“This is not just about a building,” Qadiri said.
“There are hundreds of families who depend on us every week. We have a long waiting list people expecting basic essentials like food, clothing, and household items.
“A forced closure would leave them with nothing.”
Qadiri says the volunteer service has supported more than 8000 people with more than $3 million of food parcels, material aid and food vouchers – despite the hall being looted by burglars several times.
It’s assisted refugees fleeing overseas crises such as Ukraine, Palestine and the fall of Kabul as well as surging numbers of homeless people, he says.
Long knowing of the council’s plans, Bakhtar had sought help from an array of politicians and businesses to find an alternative site, with no success.
Last year, it was hopeful of Development Victoria providing land near Dandenong railway station.
“We can’t find anyone who can take on these donated goods,” Qadiri says.
“We don’t know what to do with the items –perhaps we need to ask volunteers to take them home.”
In August, Greater Dandenong issued Bakhtar a notice to vacate the property and re-
move its items by Monday 6 October.
According to Bakhtar, the council had previously assured it of being supported into a “smooth transition“ from the property.
“Yet when they saw that (Bakhtar) had exhausted every possible avenue to find an alternative space, they turned away, leaving the most vulnerable members of our community
without help, and at risk of falling below the poverty line.“
Greater Dandenong’s strategy and corporate services executive director Marjan Hajjari said the council “truly appreciate (Bakhtar’s) contribution and that they serve a legitimate community need”.
“That’s why, three years ago, we agreed that the organisation could temporarily store supplies at the Noble Park Scout Hall while seeking a permanent storage solution.”
But the council had originally bought the site for “much-needed” community open space, she says.
“We expected the supplies would be stored for a few months and communicated clearly to Bakhtar Community Organisation that this was a temporary arrangement.
“Over the past three years, we have provided various extensions to the Bakhtar Community Organisation, along with advice, letters of support and help in seeking grant funding to make alternate arrangements.
“However, it is now imperative that we take the site back to proceed with our commitment to provide open space to the wider community.”
Hajjari says the council had offered to help distribute Bakhtar’s remaining material aid items but was rebuffed.
Some of the goods had been removed and were being stored at a council facility, she said.
“We have advised that the organisation must remove them from this location by 17 November, or we will distribute any remaining quality items to local charitable organisations.”
Hajjari said the site was not “appropriate” for distributing household goods due to multiple break-ins and illegal dumping.
“It has also become very costly to continue repairing buildings that are scheduled for demolition.
“We have received numerous complaints that the situation is having a negative impact on community amenity.”
By Sahar Foladi
An anonymous email taking aim at Greater Dandenong Council’s recruitment and leadership has sparked calls for an external independent investigation.
The missive sent to councillors from an encrypted email address claims to be on behalf of “we, the staff“ and makes allegations about council’s internal culture, its “chaotic restructures” and repeated use of external consultants.
Allegations include favouritism, staff excluded from key decision-making, undermining staff morale, internal capability ignored while external consultants are excessively used, a divided leadership, and unfair salary banding where some managers with less qualifications or experience are paid more than better qualified colleagues.
Greater Dandenong CEO, Jacqui Weatherill, has refused to comment on the email, saying the council doesn’t communicate “with or about our staff via the media.”
“The residents of our city benefit from officers’
hard work every day and we couldn’t be prouder of their efforts.
“We promote a culture of open feedback and take it seriously.
“Council staff can raise any issues with their manager, human resources advisers, their union or through our structured staff consultations and regular surveys.”
A recent ex-councillor, Tim Dark, says given his experiences, the allegations “more than likely have some legitimacy in them”.
“There were a lot of conversations had between staff who approached me, raising queries and concerns regarding employment with the organisation.
“Those matters sat outside my purview as a councillor, so I didn’t have the ability to deal with that per se, but I did refer the matters to be addressed and for staff to raise them internally with the managers.”
He says if the anonymous email was sent by a council staff member or a group of staff, an external independent investigation is necessary to
uncover the allegations and get to the truth.
However, Mr Dark stresses the independent body shouldn’t be selected by Ms Weatherill.
“You couldn’t do an internal investigation because that would become a witch-hunt of internal staff against internal staff.”
He said the investigation needs to be undertaken by an organisation which has no connections to the executive team within City of Greater Dandenong Council.
While council operations, leadership and employment is overseen by the CEO, the councillors have a duty of care to ensure staff work in a safe environment under the Local Government Act.
Councillor Rhonda Garad expressed her grave concerns while also calling for an external independent investigation.
“It would be difficult to understand why anyone would push back on an assessment.
“It’s in the best interest of anyone to get to the truth and if these allegations aren’t found to be true, than that’s good for everyone to know.
“If some or all is true than that needs to be act-
ed on quickly.
“We need to act quickly because if we’re given indications there’s any form of unfair bullying or harassment processes, we have a duty of care to act quickly to ensure our staff is working in a safe environment.”
On the other hand, councillor Sean O’Reilly says he’s not concerned “at this stage” as “anyone can allege anything about anyone”.
“I’m not going to publicly comment on allegations.
“We haven’t had full discussions. As councillors we need to make decisions diligently particularly due to the nature of allegations, noting the allegations have no evidence attached,” he said.
“Any discussions expected to happen would be internal.“
Councillor Phillip Danh declined to comment on the option of an external independent assessment.
Mayor Jim Memeti and councillors Lana Formoso, Bob Milkovic, Melinda Yim and Alice Phuong Le were also contacted for comment.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A Dandenong-raised man has avoided jail after causing a victim’s profound head injury during a street-fight.
Sam Sua pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to recklessly causing injury.
In July 2023, during a night out, the then27-year-old Sua and the reportedly intoxicated victim clashed on Church Street in Richmond.
The victim was swearing and acting aggressively, and lifted his arm as if to strike Sua.
The accused punched or pushed the victim to the lower face or collarbone area, causing him to fall backwards and hit the back of his head on the concrete footpath.
Sua and his friend tried to assist the semi-conscious victim, who was taken by ambulance to hospital, placed in an induced coma and underwent emergency surgery.
He suffered bleeding on the brain, a collapsed lung and a fractured skull. He spent nine months at hospital and a rehabilitation centre, and is under full-time care of his partner.
The victim can no longer read or write, has lost a lot of functioning on the right-side of his body and requires a walking frame.
A GP stated the man was unemployable due to severe memory loss and communication difficulties, and “no chance” of returning to his former life.
In his victim impact statement, the man described the burden some days as “too much and I collapse into tears”. His dreams for the future, including being a father, were gone.
“I grieve every day for the man I used to be, for the life I had, and for the life I should have had.”
In sentencing on 1 October, judge Angela Ellis noted Sua pleaded guilty at an early stage, despite a potential self-defence argument.
Sua didn’t make an unprovoked attack on an unsuspecting victim but she said “any sort of street violence is unacceptable” and the consequences were “devastating”.
“As you are by now well aware, the outcomes can be extremely grave when another human being is assaulted.
“The risk of a victim hitting their head on the concrete is high and this can lead to devastating and often fatal consequences.”
Sua’s limited priors included a Supreme
Court community correction order in 2016 for common law assault.
Born in New Zealand, Sua was raised by his grandparents in financial hardship in Melbourne, went to school in Dandenong and binge-drank as a teen.
Judge Ellis said Sua had “good” rehabilitation prospects, given he’d engaged in coun-
selling, showed genuine remorse, stable employment and had a significant gap in criminal offending.
Prosecutors agreed with calls for a CCO rather than jail given the “unusual circumstances”. Sua was convicted and placed on a threeyear CCO, including 300 hours of unpaid work and treatment.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A former Dandenong North woman has tearfully thanked a judge after being spared jail for defrauding the Australian Taxation Office more than $110,000.
Hailey Rowntree, 28, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to dishonestly obtain a financial advantage by deception from the Commonwealth as well as guilty to an attempted deception.
Rowntree had falsely claimed to the ATO that she was running a food delivery service, and received $111,000 in GST refunds from five false Business Activity Statements between February and May 2022.
She had falsely claimed to have made $1.3 million of purchases during that time.
A few weeks after being notified her fraud was discovered, Rowntree unsuccessfully lodged a further false BAS claim for $10,000.
She had spent the proceeds on items such as a new car, kid’s toys and drugs for her partner.
In sentencing on 10 October, judge Krista Breckweg said the frauds were neither sporadic, unplanned or impulsive over a five month period.
However, she accepted Rowntree’s “precarious” mental state at the time, stemming from “considerable hardship and trauma” since a young child.
At the time, Rowntree’s meth addiction was also a factor but “no excuse”.
Prosecutors argued that the mitigating factors were so powerful that Rowntree should be jailed but immediately released on a recognizance order – a form of good behaviour bond. Judge Breckweg agreed, also noting Rowntree’s remorse, early guilty plea, and lack of previous criminal history.
The judge found Rowntree’s reform prospects were very good, noting she had turned her life around and tested clean of drugs for three years. She had moved away from drug-using associates and set up a more stable family life, with plans for a cleaning business.
Rowntree was convicted and jailed for 13 months, but released immediately on an 18-month, $500 recognisance order.
During the order, she will be supervised by parole officers and treated for drug and mental health issues.
Rowntree was ordered to repay $111,000 to the ATO.
A tearful Rowntree thanked the judge, saying she wanted to “make good”.
“You don’t know how much I appreciate this.” Judge Breckweg replied that it was the “right decision”.
“I wish you all the very best of luck. Keep doing what you’re doing – I’m sure you’ll have the most wonderful life if you do.”
Firefighters have battled a large rubbish fire at a recycling waste facility in Dandenong South on Sunday evening (12 October).
Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) was called to the Thomas Murrell Crescent site about 5.30pm after multiple Triple Zero (000) calls reported a rubbish fire.
“Firefighters arrived on scene to find a large fire
and
fire to the refuge area of the facility,” an FRV spokesperson said.
A community warning was issued for smoke in the area.
The fire was deemed under control at 6.34pm.
Fire crews are expected to remain on scene to conduct atmospheric monitoring and ensure the scene is safe, the spokesperson said.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny has fasttracked a permit for a secretly beefed-up townhouse estate in Keysborough, despite Greater Dandenong Council’s objections.
In early June, the developer Peet Keysborough submitted directly to the Minister for a permit for 164 double-storey townhouses at 182 Chapel Road.
No public notice was given, before Kilkenny announced her decision on a media release on 9 October.
The latest iteration of the Keysborough Townhouses estate is a significant uplift on a permit granted by VCAT for 101 townhouses in 2022.
It was fast-tracked as a “priority project” through the State Government’s Development Facilitation Program, touted to boost housing supply close to shops, transport, schools and services.
Significantly for Kilkenny, the estate is near Keysborough Gardens Primary School, a shopping centre and bus stops.
“We’ve fast-tracked thousands of homes through this streamlined pathway – because the only way to make housing fairer for young Victorians is to build more homes faster,” Kilkenny stated.
The $56 million, 4.1-hectare development includes a mix of two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom townhouses, each with parking garages.
The parking spaces exceed the minimum rate. All units but for the two-bedroom dwellings have two parking spaces, plus a total 33 visitor car spaces.
At least 10 per cent – 16 units – are required to be “affordable housing” for sale or lease to a registered housing agency or Homes Victoria.
A canopy tree is required in each backyard. Two parklands – one next to Chapel Road and one in the middle of the estate – will be created.
A planning department report stated Greater Dandenong Council raised “significant concerns” over a lack of internal or external amenity and issues with traffic and access to public open space.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A 20-year-old armed robber’s allegation of being ferociously assaulted during a citizen’s arrest in Dandenong South has been dismissed by a Victorian judge.
Andrya Oshla, of Clyde North, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to the armed robbery of two children aged 13 and 14 on their bikes on Gladstone Road on 4 November 2024.
Backed by Oshla’s phone footage, a defence lawyer argued that Oshla was unreasonably restrained by passers-by.
But the submissions of Oshla “being struck with ferocity appeared to be something of an overstatement”, sentencing judge Michael Tinney stated on 25 September.
Oshla suffered no injury during the arrest, but for a possible cut lip and some “transient discomfort”.
The judge noted that a passer-by took a “couple of short swings” against a struggling Oshla, which was “not greatly, if at all, out of order”.
“I do not regard them as an assault in any fashion at all.
“The better view of it is having committed a serious crime, you were very swiftly apprehended, firstly by a couple of pretty burly civilians using some physical force and then by police, leading in to a night in custody for you.
“This all up unpleasant experience was one that may play a role in deterring you in the future.”
Oshla’s “brief aggression or non-compliance” at the scene, included claims of “lunging or pushing” or “spitting”.
One of the witnesses picked up a knife that spilled from Oshla’s pocket and held it behind their back.
Judge Tinney described the knife as a “sizeable, nasty-looking weapon”.
“They had seen or were aware of one knife. Might you have had another? How could they know? They were acting on reports that you had committed armed robbery.”
During the robbery, Oshla wore a ski mask as
he approached the two boys who had stopped on their bikes on a footpath about 2.41pm.
Judge Tinney rejected the “vague, if not forlorn, suggestion” by Oshla’s lawyer that the robber was wearing a mask because he might have been cold that afternoon.
Oshla snatched one of the boy’s phones and demanded the passcode while flashing part of the knife in his pocket.
He disabled location services, told the boy to sign out of iCloud and threatened the pair with harm if they “snitched” on him.
Soon after, the boy’s fathers and a step-mother tracked the phone’s last known location and confronted Oshla, who was at a bus stop on Brady Road.
After his arrest, the “youthful first offender” spent a night in custody and had been released on bail since then.
At the time, he possessed a bottle of merlot –though it was unclear whether it was empty. He was also found with cannabis.
At the age of 3, Oshla migrated with family to Australia in 2007. He was born in Egypt where his mother settled to escape civil war in South Sudan.
A talented basketballer and Australian citizen, Oshla had represented Australia at junior level and had a college sporting scholarship in the ACT.
Judge Tinney noted Oshla’s guilty plea as well as his letter of apology as evidence of remorse.
He rated Oshla as “quite a low” risk of reoffending, with no prior convictions, and “favourable” rehabilitation prospects.
Noting the “clamour” for punishing youth crime, Judge Tinney said it could be counter-productive to incarcerate a youthful offender for the community’s protection.
“You are plainly not inherently criminal, though you have committed a serious crime.
“You are not a member of some gang.”
Oshla was placed on a three-and-a-half-year supervised community corrections order, including 350 hours of unpaid work as well as mental health and drug-and-alcohol treatment.
The average lot size of 166-square-metres was well below the council’s development plan’s aim for 200-300 square metres per lot.
“The proposed development has come at a cost of providing a functional and safe living environment for future residents,” the council reportedly stated.
“(It) is an overdevelopment of the site which
would not provide good quality housing.” Head, Transport for Victoria – occupied by Jeroen Weimar – had no objection subject to relocating a Chapel Road bus stop to make way for an access road to the site.
The L-shaped site wraps around the historic 148-year-old Keysborough Methodist Church site, which is also up for development. Peet also owns an undeveloped block directly south.
A strip of protected trees on the border of Keysborough Golf Course is being retained. No further native vegetation is proposed for destruction.
Keysborough Golf Club and developer Intrapac have been fiercely lobbying to rezone the Green Wedge golf course for housing, but been so far rebuffed by the State Government.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Bruce MP and assistant minister Julian Hill has taken aim at critics of Australia’s migration levels.
In a speech to a national migration conference on 10 October, Hill said “contrary to ridiculous claims … Australia does not have or suffer from mass migration”.
“Australia is not Europe. Australia is not the USA. Our migration program is orderly and our borders are tightly controlled.”
Hill, who is assistant minister for citizenship, customs and multicultural affairs, said this year’s permanent migration program was “steady” at 185,000 places – the “same as last year”.
“Many, including states and territories, actually argue this is a conservative level given our ageing population, strong labour market and family reunion pressures.”
Hill said “the extreme right” had latched onto Net Overseas Migration as “big scary numbers to frighten people in a grossly misleading way”.
Since borders reopened after Covid-19, the country’s Net Overseas Migration had rapidly spiked with the return of “partners, students, working holiday makers and skilled workers”, Hill argued.
“The rise in NOM was a bit higher than anticipated not as the Liberals and extremists pretend because of out-of-control visa grants, but because fewer people departed than expected due to Australia’s very strong labour market.
“These temporary visa holders are now departing in larger numbers contributing to a rapid fall in NOM.”
Hill gave “plaudits” to opposition immigration spokesperson Paul Scarr, in contrast to former opposition frontbenchers Andrew Hastie and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price who Hill labelled as “extremists or populists”.
Recently, Hastie quit as opposition home affairs spokesperson after saying Australians
were “starting to feel like strangers in our own home” and blaming migration for the housing crisis.
Hill called on the Liberal Party to outline what cuts it would make to migration and what impact it would have on the economy.
He noted a “global war for top talent” while Australia’s population ages – with less workers for every retiree projected to worsen.
“Regional Australian economies across the nation would literally collapse without the contribution of working holiday makers in agriculture, hospitality and other critical sectors.”
By Sahar Foladi
A forum exploring women’s health and cannabis run by the Legalise Cannabis Party brought women together in Frankston.
Hosted by South-East Metropolitan MP Rachel Payne, the conversation explored the stigma and fear for women, especially employed women, who use medicinal cannabis as a treatment for a variety of health reasons such as endometriosis, perimenopause, Tourette syndrome, anxiety, and various other reasons.
A speaker diagnosed with leukemia couldn’t attend on Wednesday evening, 8 October, because she was worried about being sacked by her employer for using medicinal cannabis for her pain.
Panelists included pharmacist Lisa Nguyen and the CEO of a female-led dispensary, Astrid, and Tegan Scates, founder of Bloomly, an educational Australian platform focused on women’s health and cannabis education.
Medicinal cannabis is legal in Australia, including Victoria, but requires a prescription from a general practitioner or nurse practitioner.
However, some women have to “self-advocate” to their GP to receive a prescription, pharmacist Nguyen said.
“There’s a big learning curve. We aren’t taught in pharmacy schools or university curriculum, so if you’re not taught, it’s not rolled out in day-to-day practice.
“A lot of doctors are in cannabis because they have seen patients benefit from different dose formats, and they’ve done their own homework.”
Ms Nguyen’s ethnic Vietnamese mother, who had a lot of prejudice against cannabis, now uses medicinal cannabis for pain management after she was diagnosed with lung cancer.
She underwent surgery for lung removal, is on anti-cancer medications, but is unable to sleep and in a lot of pain.
Rachel Payne says there’s a medicinal can-
nabis industry association that hosts events for the industry professionals who are curious and would like more information on the topic.
She says more local doctors have reached out to her, and one common aspect is that their patients seek medicinal cannabis for sleep and pain management.
“So, we’ve started to see a lot more nurse practitioners who are really interested in offering prescription-based services.
“We’re also seeing a lot of doctors who are really curious about patients who use pain medications, such as benzodiazepines or opiates, who are looking to transition out of using those
medications and accessing cannabis instead.
“We really want to see that shame and that stigma reduced, and that will happen when doctors become more educated about the benefits of cannabis.”
Ms Payne shared she used cannabis for all her adult life, for severe pelvic pain during menstruation ranging from mild irritation to a “complete debilitating,” and anxiety all while being a “professional woman” working 60 hours or more.
Victoria is set to release an inquiry into women’s pain as part of the Women’s Health and Wellbeing Program to address challenges faced by girls and women seeking pain care.
It will provide recommendations to improve those models of care and service delivery in the future, acknowledging medical gender bias leads to denial of pain and lack of pain relief and similar treatments for women.
While medicinal cannabis is a prescription by GPs it doesn’t safeguard users behind the wheel if they are tested positive for cannabinoid chemical THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) but are unimpaired while driving.
The THC psychoactive effect of cannabis can last for few hours on average dose, but it remains in a person’s system for days or months while they remain sober.
A first-time detection through a saliva test penalises the driver with a 6-month suspension.
Through their constant advocacy, the Legalise Cannabis Party secured sentencing discretion for magistrates when medicinal cannabis script-holders test positive.
Ms Payne says a lot of magistrates are dismissing the cases.
This is while Victoria’s “world-first” $4.9 million medicinal cannabis driving trial is being conducted by Swinburne University of Technology over 18-months to assess the prescribed medicinal cannabis effect on people behind the wheel.
The report is set to be out by late next year, in time for the State election in November 2026.
the entertainments as part of International Games Day.
The event is part of a month of free and low-cost activities during Victorian Seniors Festival. To find out more, go to seniorsonline.vic. gov.au/festival Check out some of Gary Sissons’ photos.
By Violet Li
Global environmental services giant Veolia paid no corporate tax in 2023–24 under its new Australian holding company, despite earning $1.1 billion in total income, citing “legitimate tax deductions designed to encourage investment and innovation in local communities”.
Among the company’s recent Australian investments in the past year is a joint venture for the proposed Maryvale Energy from Waste plant in Gippsland, a project that has drawn controversy in Hampton Park and the surrounding community, as reported by Star News before.
While Veolia did not confirm whether the investment fell within the 2023–24 financial year, the company stated that its substantial research and development and infrastructure projects contributed to the tax deductions, resulting in Veolia Holdings Australia Pty Ltd having no tax payable for that period.
While Veolia is publicly listed in Europe, its Australian operations are privately held with limited financial information disclosed.
The waste giant confirmed that they “did in fact pay corporate tax amounting to 20 per cent of their tax expense across their waste and energy operations after claiming research and development credits”, and “the part of their business under Veolia Holdings Australia was one of the few exceptions that didn’t have a tax bill in the 202324 financial year”.
Due to sensitivity, Veolia is unable to share the exact tax number they paid under other entities of their business for the 2023-24 financial year.
According to the Australian Taxation Office
(ATO)’s latest Corporate Tax Transparency (CTT) report published last week, Veolia Holdings Australia Pty Ltd, the company’s major entity, declared $1.16 billion in total income and $13 million in taxable income, but no corporate tax bill.
The CTT report includes all corporate tax entities with total income of $100 million or more, whether private or public.
Many large corporate groups consist of smaller entities whose aggregated total income does not meet the transparency report threshold, but that doesn’t mean no tax is paid. Veolia has two other entities that made the list: Veolia Water Australia Pty Ltd, and Veolia Water Technologies & Solutions Process Australia Pty Ltd.
Veolia Water Australia Pty Ltd declared $406 million in total income, $4 million in taxable income, and no tax bill. Veolia Technologies & Solutions Process Australia Pty Ltd declared $136 million in total income and no taxable income.
Those three entities under Veolia are among roughly 1,150 (28 per cent) of the 4,110 entities that reported no corporate tax payable for the 2023-24 financial year.
According to ATO, there can be legitimate reasons why entities do not pay tax, for example, they have an accounting or tax loss, or they utilised tax offsets or losses from previous years.
Assistant Commissioner Michelle Sams said while there are legitimate reasons why a company may pay no income tax, the Australian community can be assured that they pay close attention to those who don’t pay corporate tax and ensure that they are not gaming the system.
In a statement to Star News, a Veolia spokes-
person said there are three reasons why this particular entity, Veolia Holdings Australia Pty Ltd, had no tax liability for that financial year.
“First, some parts of the newly combined business carried forward tax credits from previous years,” they said. “Second, our substantial investment in research and development earned us legitimate R&D tax credits. Third, we reinvested our profits in building infrastructure, to the tune of about $300m a year. We’re a growth company that puts profits back into the business, rather than extracting them.”
Examples of recent investments, developments and R&D in Australia over the past year alone include Acquisition of Orontide in WA, completion of a materials recovery facility (MRF) in Tasmania, starting another MRF in the ACT, installing Australia’s first robot arm at an MRF in WA, joint venture for the construction and operation of the proposed Maryvale energy from waste plant, constructing an advanced soil washing plant in Hampton Park, and major renewable energy upgrades across every part of the business.
The new holding company was established following Veolia’s 2022 acquisition of waste business Suez, which prompted a restructure of Australian corporate entities for FY 2023-2024.
“Veolia undertook a strategic plan to simplify several separate tax groups into one for greater operational efficiency, including those from the Suez merger,” the spokesperson said.
“As a consequence, Veolia Recycling & Recovery Holdings ANZ Pty Ltd was moved under Veolia Holdings Australia Pty Ltd tax group from 1 January 2024.”
Relationship
Relationship
Community Bank Dingley Village is proud to showcase the leadership of four remarkable women who are driving success not only in business but also in community impact: Branch Manager Nicole Pegrum, Community Engagement Advisor Emma Eckhardt, Customer Relationship Officers Elysia Shaw-Dennis and Kerrie Wyer.
Since opening in 2002, Community Bank Dingley Village has returned more than $7 million to the local community, demonstrating the power of the Community Bank model where up to 80% of profits are reinvested locally to strengthen schools, sporting clubs, health initiatives, and community groups.
“Our bank is built on relationships, not transactions,” said CEA Emma Eckhardt. “Every decision we make is guided by the belief that banking should benefit the people it serves. Our customers know that when they choose to bank with us, they’re directly contributing to a stronger, more connected local community.”
Branch Manager Nicole Pegrum added: “We are a profit-for-purpose bank. That means we focus on meeting the real needs of our customers while ensuring that profits flow back into the
community. It’s a model that genuinely changes lives.”
For Customer Relationship Officer Elysia Shaw-Dennis, the personal approach is key. “Banking with us feels different, we know our customers, we listen and we care. That trust is what makes people stay with us for generations.”
Kerrie Wyer highlighted the significance of the $7 million milestone. “Those funds have provided vital resources for schools, equipment for sporting clubs, and support for grassroots initiatives. It’s a legacy of giving that continues to grow year after year.”
As a team of women in leadership, Nicole, Emma, Elysia and Kerrie are proud to demonstrate how community banking empowers both customers and the wider community. Their work showcases the impact of women in business leading with purpose, empathy and a commitment to long-term growth.
Community Bank Dingley Village is part of the Bendigo Bank network and continues to prove that when banking is done differently, everyone benefits.
Eight people have been arrested and a $15 million cannabis crop dismantled after police raids in the South East.
Springvale Divisional Response Unit officers and other units raided a home on Havenstone Drive, Keysborough and a 20-acre property on Meadow Road, Devon Meadows at 7.30am on Tuesday 7 October.
Police allege eight suspects fled upon police arrival at Devon Meadows, and were arrested at the scene shortly after. Five of them have been charged:
• A 26-year-old man from Tenby Point
• A 38-year-old man from Devon Meadows
• A 42-year-old man from Sunshine
• A 35-year-old man from Devon Meadows
• A 49-year-old man of no permanent fixed address.
All five were charged with cultivating a large commercial quantity of cannabis.
They appeared in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 8 October, where they were further remanded to reappear at a later date.
The 26-year-old man was also charged with possessing a drug of dependence.
A two-day search of the property revealed a sophisticated set up, with the crop growing in gardening igloos.
About 4500 plants of varying maturity were removed from the property, with an estimated potential street value of about $15 million, police say.
Further charges are expected.
To mark Dandenong Star Journal’s 160 years of publication, PHILIP SALAMA-WEST is taking a thenand-now look at the people, places and events that have formed Dandenong’s modern history.
This week, we look back on a notorious murder spree in Police Paddocks Reserve and a Mini-bombing spree.
In 2019, James Patrick Dobbie, then 65, was jailed for up to 31 years over the murder and rape of couples who were parked in ‘lovers lane’ in Police Paddocks in 1980 and 1983.
In his first two episodes of terror, a masked Dobbie pointed a sawn-off shotgun at couples aged just 18-21 years, tying up the males and sustainedly raping the females nearby.
In May 1983 attack, Dobbie pointed the gun through a car at a 37-year-old man and 26-year-old woman inside. The man fought back and briefly struggled with Dobbie until he was fatally shot twice.
Dobbie left the dead man behind, binding the woman and driving her away in her lover’s vehicle.
She escaped from the moving vehicle – de-
100 years ago
15 October 1925
Football Cub Ball
A large number of Dandenong and district residents attended the ball of the Dandenong Junior Football Club in the Town Hall on Thursday night, and were rewarded by an extremely pleasant and successful evening. The hall was well decorated with streamers in the club’s colors, red and blue, and the floor was in good order. A waltzing competition was held and caused much interest. During the evening Mr. H. Anderson, president of the club, presented Mr. W. Ryan with an inscribed silver teapot for being the most popular player in the club. Mr Ryan suitably acknowledged the gift and the gathering then gave three cheers and sang “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow.” A first-class supper was provided by the ladies committee, and Mr. F. Randall was an efficient M.C. Splendid music was supplied by Messers Pow Bros.’ orchestra, Melbourne, who had to respond to numerous encores.
50 years ago
13 October 1975
COUPLES HOME SAVED
Berwick residents Betty and Norm Kirkham can
spite Dobbie warning he would shoot her if she tried.
Dobbie dumped the car at Caulfield railway station, caught a train to his Boronia home and fled for a new life in Queensland.
The crimes were quickly reported to police but remained long unsolved.
On 17 January 1985, the Journal reported on police posting a $50,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of the ‘Police Paddocks Murder’.
“The killer has been described by police as a ‘bloody maniac’, and because of his record, fears are held that he could kill again.,” the Journal stated.
Despite detectives sifting through mountains of evidence and information, they still lacked “one vital clue”.
Decades later, an anonymous Crime Stoppers call led to Dobbie handing himself in for arrest at a police station in Cobram, NSW, in June 2018.
“I just had enough,” Dobbie told police during his admissions.
“I want to get it out now.”
In sentencing, Supreme Court of Victoria judge John Champion said Dobbie’s “despicable” and “completely indefensible” behaviour had “no place in the civilised community”.
Meanwhile on 15 May 1973, this is how the Journal reported on a Mini-bomber striking in Dandenong (headline: Bomber Strikes Again! Dandenong Mini up in flames)
Melbourne’s Mini-bomber struck in Dandenong on Sunday night dashing the hopes of a 19 year-old youth.
Kevin Davies of David Street had parked his Mini on the front lawn of his home and gone inside for his dinner.
Thirty minutes later his car was in flames.
Five minutes later a Dandenong Fire Brigade unit headed by sub-station officer Col
Pinkerton and a crew of six arrived on the scene, but the car was well alight and it was too late to save it.
Arson squad detectives were called in later when it was discovered that the fuel line had been cut.
The standard petrol cap was removed by Kevin when he bought the car and replaced with a locking cap.
Kevin tried to douse the flames with a garden hose while waiting for the fire brigade but when he realised the hopelessness of the situation he turned the hose on the front wall of the house six feet away.
Kevin said yesterday that the car was insured but he would never recover what the car was worth to him. Kevin works with the Forestry Commission in Kallista and his car was the only way he could get to work.
There have been more than 50 Mini bombings over the last four years.
Of these, Police attribute between 40 and 50 to the real Mini bomber and the rest they put down to imitators.
The big question for Mini owners is: is the original maniac back in business, or does he have a sick counterpart working in the Dandenong area?
by Dandenong and District Historical Society
of the homes of Mr and Mrs Kirkham and Mrs Ross Hanna for Berwick High School. Councillor John Byron successfully moved this with the added words: “Council believes there is alternative land without houses within close proximity to the Berwick township.” The question now remains as to where the school / recreation complex will go and if it will be ready to start the 1977 school year.
20 years ago
10 October 2005
100 Years
keep their home! After months of turmoil and anxiety, Berwick Council decided not to support the compulsory acquisition of the 85-year-old home. Council voted almost unanimously to tell the Education Department it did not support the taking
By Sister Jacqueline Russell, Brahma Kumaris
Every day we are living a life of hope.
We trust the routine we have established and we walk confidently into our day.
Then something happens, usually unexpectedly, to challenge us.
What is our first reaction? In our thoughts we respond and here is the seat of our mood.
Cheerful or troubled? Despondent or hopeful?
These attitudes start with our thoughts in response to the situation.
It is a clearly researched fact that good and positive thoughts give us energy and strength and that the opposite, negative thoughts, make us feel hopeless, tired and strained.
So clearly positive thoughts are resilient and energising and give us courage to think outside the square for solutions.
Even to the point of being able to make a positive response to a negative put down.
To be able to do this we need to understand how our thoughts elicit our reactions and that when we practice thinking positively about ourselves, we build up a resource of hope.
Then we can believe in our being able to bring about a meaningful resolution at any time to protect our feelings from descending into despon-
dency.
How do we develop a resource of self-care?
Dandenong law firm Macpherson and Kelley celebrated its 100th year birthday last week. What began as a one-man operation in 1905 when Jefferey Macpherson bought the practice, became a thriving law practice with 120 employees. Mr Macpherson ran the business from the Royal Hotel on the corner of Foster and Lonsdale streets. Dandenong resident Charles Kelley joined as a partner a few years later, eventually running the business on his own after the death of Mr Macpherson in the 1930s. The business grew after WWII. Managing director Damian Paul said the firm went through a significant growth period in the 1970s and 80s. He has worked at the firm
since he graduated from university in 1988 and said that the company looked forward to many more years serving the Dandenong community.
5 years ago
13 October 2020
Unhappy camper
City of Greater Dandenong local law officers have come under attack from “increasing levels of aggression” from homeless campers in Dandenong Park. In a recent incident, an officer took refuge in a vehicle after fleeing from a male who rushed at her in the park. The officer had been part of ongoing attempts to clear campers from the park. The male then, allegedly, punched the window, kicked the vehicle and threw a bike at the car. He was arrested and charged by police. Mayor Jim Memeti said the council had “no option” but to clear the park of camps – especially with extra state funding for housing homeless people in hotels during Covid-19. “Some of them don’t want to go.” Homelessness agency WAYSS’s CEO said often the campers were “street homeless for years” with “entrenched” issues like drug addiction and mental illness.
the hope that we all need
We can understand that when we are in a peaceful environment, quiet and reflective, we feel at peace with ourselves and there is a natural feeling of gratitude, and of kindness.
When we learn to appreciate these experiences and hold them in our memory bank, they can be a resource in times of unease.
We flick the pages of our journey to remember how we felt and we emerge that feeling again to quell the disturbance in our thoughts and feelings.
In other words to pour some cool water, figuratively speaking, on the volcanic rumblings of our thoughts.
We establish a spiritual resource of appreciative, grateful, and kind thoughts that make us happy and optimistic.
It has been proven that the more you hold onto a particular thought, the more it will grow. So, what is the benefit of storing positive thoughts from my experiences?
It will become a resource to switch into when challenged.
To think, “I am this peaceful, kind, appreciative person”, will slow my thoughts to the extent that it allows me space to prepare an appropriate response, find a solution, explore for a better outcome, and gives me time to consider my options.
I build hope in myself to find a solution that will benefit me.
I am then responsible for my feelings.
Now, how do I build up this source of resilience?
When I am in a quiet mood, in a quiet space, I spend time to go through my day with a benevolent attitude to focus on benefits.
Then remind myself of this experience, more than once, so it sits in my memory firmly.
The more I do this in reflection the more it will take root and grow.
When emerged it will initially calm my mind and allow me to create new thoughts.
It becomes spiritual self-care in right thinking over faulty thinking. It strengthens hope.
Enquiries regarding the Interfaith Network, City of Greater Dandenong administration@interfaithnetwork.org.au or 8774 7662. Visit - https://interfaithnetwork.org.au/
By Sahar Foladi
People with mental health issues are facing staggering wait times at hospital emergency departments as their only option.
According to official Victorian Agency for Health Information statistics, in April-June 2025, just 4 per cent of adult patients were transferred from an emergency department to a mental health bed at Dandenong Hospital within eight hours.
This was the lowest rate in the state, and well below the 44 per cent statewide average.
Calls have been made for increased community support for those with mental health conditions to drive down the increasing number of people presenting to hospital EDs.
The not-for-profit Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia (MIFA) has found that 460,000 people have no access to “much-needed” community support for their conditions, warning that this number will continue to grow.
There are currently no other alternatives, besides a visit to a general practitioner for referrals to specialists, .
Dandenong Hospital. (Stewart Chambers: 296906)
health services by trained support workers at a person’s home, family and community.
It provides support to enable the person to live independently safe and well through support with housing, employment, family connections social inclusion and daily living skills.
Mr Stevenson claims this will drive down “unnecessary time in hospital,” as well as prevent and reduce homelessness and poverty.
A Greater Dandenong local, Noelene, had to wait up to 12 hours at the Dandenong Hospital ED years back.
nificantly now requiring rare attendance to the ED.
A report by the Australian Medical Association (AMA) last year found patients spent seven hours in an ED before being admitted to hospital in 2022-’23.
The report, ‘Public hospital report card: mental health edition’ found the mental health system is in crisis with longer wait times, reduced services, increase in mental health severity and patients requiring urgent attention has more than doubled.
“Community mental health organisations are ready and able to roll out these services if the funding is available.
“Psychosocial support services can support people to stay well and live safely and independently in their community.
“This will reduce or prevent unnecessary hospital admissions.”
He says there’s a gap in psychosocial support services, which provide community mental
Its CEO, Tony Stevenson, says the state and federal government need to establish a joint plan to fund and provide psychosocial support services in Greater Dandenong.
She presented to the ED for her daughter who suffers from severe anxiety, depression, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder and attention defecit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
She says the wait times themselves add to the anxiety.
“We have a doctor’s clinic that dispense her medications, they are good and she can go to the triage there instead of the hospital if it’s during opening hours.”
At the age of 24 now, her daughter has been on NDIS for four years now, receiving vital support through the program and its support workers.
Since NDIS, her daughter has progressed sig-
It reveals the multiple strains on public hospitals as “record high waiting times and record low per-person bed capacity” replicated in mental health wards with only 27 beds per 100,000 Australians.
That is identified as the lowest per-person capacity figure on record.
Ten per cent of patients spent more than 23 hours waiting, it found.
MIFA advocated for stronger connection between the community and people facing mental health issues this World Mental Health Day on Friday, October 10.
Monash Health, which operates Dandenong Hospital, was contacted for comment.
Five teens have been charged after being allegedly tracked in a stolen car by police and attempting a carjacking in Dingley.
Air Wing officers located an allegedly stolen Mercedes utility travelling south on Lum Road, Wheelers Hill just before 4am on Thursday 9 October, police say.
Air Wing tracked the vehicle through suburbs before stop sticks were successfully used at Tootal Road in Dingley Village.
The five occupants fled from the vehicle and
attempted a carjacking on Westall Road, Dingley, it was alleged.
The victim was not injured.
The teens then allegedly fled into grass and were arrested by police.
They were charged with burglary, criminal damage, attempted theft and car theft.
Two boys aged 16 and 17 from the Greater Dandenong area, and a 16-year-old boy from the Casey area, have been bailed to a children’s court at a later date.
Two 14-year-old boys from the Greater Dandenong area have been remanded in custody.
The Mercedes vehicle was allegedly stolen from Grantchester Road, Wheelers Hill on 26 September during an aggravated burglary.
The arrests were part of Operation Trinity, which is a dedicated operation targeting burglars and car thieves from dusk to dawn across Melbourne.
Detective Inspector Paul Cripps from Eastern Region Investigation and Response said five
young burglars and car thieves have been arrested each day for the past year during Operation Trinity.
“Young children behind the wheel of a stolen car are a recipe for disaster,”
“Victoria Police are as disturbed by the thought of someone entering your home or killing an innocent motorist as the rest of the community are.
“Given the extreme risk these offenders present, we have no intention of letting up.”
THE weather is getting warmer by the day and thoughts are turning to getting away from it all to somewhere cooler, somewhere different and new.
There isn’t anywhere that suits that description better than Antarctica – the land at the bottom of the world, the land of ice and penguins.
And let’s face it whether it is playing a starring role in a nature documentary or a blockbuster animation, few are impervious to the charms of a waddling penguin.
The opportunity to encounter this loveable flightless bird in their natural habitat is one that draws many to Antarctica and sightings of colonies never fail to awe and entertain.
From Adelie penguins, who are 70 cm tall, to Gentoo penguins, who are the world’s fastest diving birds, there are so many fascinating penguin species to possibly encounter on a Viking Antarctica expedition voyage.
Viking offer a chance to “discover the “Last Continent”.
This ultimate adventure takes travellers to the Antarctic Peninsula, where they can witness towering glaciers, snow-covered landscapes, immense icebergs and epic wildlife.
It’s a chance to explore it in luxury – to follow in the footsteps of explorers such as Amundsen, Shackleton and Scott, to be one of the few to discover the world’s last truly wild frontier.
To go on a cruise where each day brings new surprises and the opportunity to change plans to maximize wildlife sightings and adapt to everchanging weather.
The Antarctic Explorer is AU$19,495 from Australia and take travellers on a 13 day cruise taking in Argentina and Antarctica and travelling to the bottom of the earth.
The adventure begins (and ends) in Buenos Aires, Argentina with visitors checking in to a hotel in Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital – a place which is an eclectic combination of Latin and European influences – for the night. The tree-lined streets and postcolonial architecture draw on the city’s Spanish, French and Italian heritage, while the many cafes and bodegas and vibrant nightlife are decidedly Argentine. Its barrios, or neighborhoods, exude an intimate atmosphere that belies the city’s size.
After breakfast the next morning it’s time to check out of the hotel and board a charter flight to catch up with your home for the next 13 days. Travellers join the cruise in Ushuaia - the southernmost city in the world. Its splendid setting, tucked between the Beagle Channel and the southernmost slopes of the Andes, lends it an outpost atmosphere, as do the Antarctic explorers readying for the expeditions that depart from here.
Ushuaia is the capital of and gateway to the celebrated Tierra del Fuego, the “Land of Fire,” named by Spaniards upon seeing the constant flames burned by the indigenous Yámana to keep warm.
This largely unspoiled region comprises the
large island of Tierra del Fuego and countless Chilean and Argentine islands.
First stop is the Drake Passage - named for 16th-century English privateer Sir Francis Drake, the frigid waters of the Passage stretch for some 600 miles between Cape Horn and Livingston Island in the South Shetland archipelago.
There is a chance to attend an informative lecture or watch a film on Viking’s 8k laser-projected panoramic screen in The Aula, one of the world’s most advanced venues for learning at
sea before the first-hand adventure begins – the chance to explore Antarctica for the next seven days.
At once ethereal and majestic, Antarctica has inspired explorers and adventurers for centuries. In this icy wilderness, marvel at icebergs glimmering in serene bays and mountains cloaked in white rising from the mainland basalt cliffs.
These stunning landscapes evoke both utter tranquility as Weddell seals lounge on ice floes,
and breathtaking drama as glaciers thunderously calve into the sea. In these cold and nutrient-rich waters, humpback, fin and minke whales have been known to greet expedition ships that venture into their habitat.
With memories made it’s time to return back through Drake Passage, Cape Horn and back to Argentina and everyday life.
For further information please visit www.viking.com or phone 138 747.
Amsterdam to Bucharest or vice versa
23 DAYS | 8 COUNTRIES
APR-OCT 2026; MAY-OCT 2027
From $15,895pp in Standard Stateroom
From $20,895pp in Veranda Stateroom
Amsterdam to Budapest or vice versa
15 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES
MAR-NOV 2026; APR-NOV 2027
From $10,395pp in Standard Stateroom
From $13,895pp in Veranda Stateroom
Join Viking’s free live virtual information event to explore the Rhine & Danube, discover port highlights, excursions and expert travel tips.
8 Nights
5 February 2026
Your Holiday Includes
Full-Board River Cruise
4 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing
Burke Salter Boutique Winery tasting
“Murray River Cup”
Event Experience
Ticket to Franco Zeffirelli’s legendary production of Aida at the Adelaide Oval
Fully Escorted
Barossa Valley Tours
Walking tour of Swan River
Swan Reach Museum (gold coin donation on entry)
Sunnydale Woolshed Show
Sunnydale Native Wildlife Shelter
Aussie Barbecue – cooked and served in a bush setting on the banks of the Murray River
Ngaut Ngaut Conservation Park tour
Scenic tender boat ride
Hotel Stay
4 night four-star stay in Adelaide at the Stamford Plaza Adelaide with breakfast
Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine tastings including: Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill
Lookout, vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre, stop at Beerenberg Farm and free time in Hahndorf to explore the historic German settlement
All Flights, Taxes & Transfers
By Tara Cosoleto, AAP
An accused killer has asked a magistrate to throw out his murder charge, claiming a young woman could have died from a drug overdose before he allegedly hid her body in a fridge.
Prosecutors allege Marat Ganiev, 53, killed 19-year-old Isla Bell in the early hours of October 7, 2024.
Her remains were found at a rubbish tip in Dandenong six weeks later.
Ganiev’s barrister Sally Flynn KC argued the prosecution’s case was entirely circumstantial as she pushed for her client to be discharged.
She said the police could not prove the 53-year-old caused Ms Bell’s death and it could not be excluded that Ms Bell died from a drug overdose.
Ms Flynn pointed to evidence from forensic experts, who outlined the drugs including methadone, MDMA and cannabis that were in Ms Bell’s system.
A toxicologist said one of those drugs or a combination of them could cause death, she noted.
The barrister argued the prosecution could not rule out that Ms Bell died from the drugs she consumed.
It could not be excluded that the multiple fractures to Ms Bell’s skull and ribs were caused by the rubbish truck compactor after her death, Ms Flynn added.
She highlighted the evidence of pathologist Hans de Boer, who conceded all of the teen’s injuries could have come from the truck’s compactor.
Ms Flynn argued if the magistrate was not convinced of her arguments around causation, she would have to accept Ganiev did not have an intention to kill.
He only met Ms Bell a couple of days before the alleged murder and there was no evidence of any physical assault or violence, she said.
Police claimed there was CCTV footage showing Ganiev striking Ms Bell, but Ms Flynn said the alleged assault was not depicted in the vision.
“If you reject our submission, even on the prosecution case it’s said the deceased is seen on the CCTV after that so it can’t be the acts that caused her death,” she said.
Ganiev’s actions after Ms Bell’s death could also not be used to prove murder, rather it was a sign he panicked, Ms Flynn said.
Police allege he put Ms Bell into a fridge and then, with help from his co-accused Eyal Yaffe, he moved the appliance to multiple different locations.
Yaffe, 58, is charged with assisting an offender and attempting to pervert the course of justice.
Mr Yaffe’s barrister Ian Hill KC on Wednesday also pushed for the charges against his client to be withdrawn.
He said his client did not know or hold the belief that Ganiev had killed Ms Bell, nor did he know her remains were inside the fridge.
Mr Hill reiterated Ms Flynn’s submissions about the expert forensic evidence, highlighting how Dr de Boer was unable to ascertain the cause of death.
Diwali is back at Dandenong Market: A festival of lights, flavour and culture.
Where tradition, taste and family-friendly entertainment come alive. Experience the magic of Diwali at Dandenong Market on Sunday, 19 October 2025, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
This one-day-only event invites the Dandenong and wider Melbourne community to immerse themselves in the vibrant spirit of the Festival of Lights, through food, music, dance and cultural celebration.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, this familyfriendly food event is your chance to enjoy Diwali in a uniquely festive and inclusive atmosphere.
This year, we’re proud to partner with Sweet India, Australia’s leading destination for authentic Indian sweets and snacks.
Sweet India is where tradition meets taste and brings timeless flavours made to delight every occasion.
From festive treats like laddoos, rasmalai, and kaju katli to savoury favourites like chole bhature, samosas, and chaats.
Sweet India is your go-to destination for comfort food that feels like home and every recipe is crafted with care, keeping heritage alive in every bite.
And exciting news: Sweet India is opening it’s newest outlet right here at Dandenong Market! The launch comes just in time for the festive season, making Sweet India’s Dandenong store the perfect spot for Diwali hampers, festive sweets, and daily treats.
From delicious street favourites to indulgent sweets and traditional henna art, Diwali at Dandenong Market is a food lover’s dream and a cultural celebration like no other.
Flavours That Light Up Diwali
Explore authentic dishes from across South Asia, including:
• Sri Lankan hoppers and flaky parotta
Five cars were set alight at three different scenes in Hampton Park and Noble Park early on Thursday 9 October, police say.
Emergency services were first called to Nilufa Court in Hampton Park following reports two cars were on fire just after 3am.
A short time later another caller to Triple Zero reported two cars were alight in Oaktree Drive in Hampton Park. The fire also spread to a nearby property.
A third call was received about 3.15am reporting a vehicle had been damaged by fire in Jessie Street Noble Park.
Greater Dandenong CIU detectives are investigating the fires and whether the incidents are linked.
Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
• Indian street food favourites like vada pav, pav bhaji, dahl puri, samosas and wraps
• Chaat classics like pani puri and bhel puri
• Sweet treats including gulab jamun, jalebi, rasmalai, laddoos and kaju katli
• Refreshing drinks like falooda, mango lassi, milkshakes and sodas
And don’t forget to enjoy your favourites inside the Market. Indulge in the aromatic South Indian flavours from Down Town Punjab.
Enjoy delicious Sri Lankan street food from Drums and finish with an authentic cup of freshly brewed chai at Kadak Chai.
Dance to the Rhythm of Diwali
The celebration doesn’t stop at food! Diwali at Dandenong Market features a dynamic entertainment lineup that will keep you dancing, smiling and celebrating all day long:
• DJ Ash spinning Indian beats
• Enjoy a classical Bharatanatyam performance by Noopur Arts Academy
• Dance Bollywood with SJ Crew and NB Dance Studio
• Live dance performance by Rahje Bhangra
Whether you’re a foodie, culture lover, or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, Diwali at Dandenong Market promises an unforgettable experience. It’s a celebration of community, diversity, and the joy of coming together.
Event Details
• What: Diwali (View event page)
• When: Sunday 19th October 2025
• Time: 10am to 3pm
• Where: Dandenong Market, The Terrace (Southern Carpark)
• Address: Corner Clow and Cleeland Street, Dandenong.
FREE ENTRY
• Plan your visit now
• Follow us on social media for food reveals and event updates
Springvale’s top traders have been celebrated at an inaugural small-business awards event on Tuesday 7 October.
Hosted by Springvale Asian Business Association, the spectacular, entertaining and multilingual dinner at Saigon Rex Restaurant was packed with businesses, community leaders, MPs and councillors.
On the night, SABA lauched the date for its next popular Lunar New Year Festival, celebrating Year of the Horse on 15 February 2026. The headline award Small Business of the Year was taken out by Starfish Early Learning Centre, with six branches across Melbourne including Springvale.
John Stonemart Memorials and Walrus Chinese Restaurant were co-winners of the Best Community Contribution award.
In 2023, Walrus Restaurant staged a vegetarian banquet at Springvale Town Hall to raise more than $141,000 for Bright Moon Temple, which was destroyed by fire that year.
John Stonemart Memorials had generously supported Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence, Box Hill Football and Netball Clubs and a host of local communities and festivals.
AWARD WINNERS
■ Best Professional/Real Estate: House of Wealth
■ Best Retail & Service: Lim’s Pharmacy
■ Best Restaurant/Pho/Takeaway: Saigon Rex
■ Best Food Supply/Butcher/Seafood/Grocery: Seafood Smart
■ Best Bakery/Banh Mi/Cake: Tabac Bakery
■ Best Cafe/Bubble Tea/Dessert: Gloria Jean’s Springvale
■ Best Community Contribution: John Stonemart Memorials and Walrus Chinese Restaurant
■ Small Business of the Year: Starfish Early Learning Centre
A crowd of 1000 filled the Keysborough Turkish Islamic & Cultural Centre for the 5th Annual Seerah Conference (Mawlid) on 21 September. Hosted by the Zaylai Qadiri Tariqah, the conference honoured and reflected on the life and legacy of Prophet Muhammad.
Leading Islamic figures, dignitaries and leaders from around Australia and the world attended the speeches, recitations and lectures. They included the host Shaykh Zainuddin Abdulrahman Zyka, who is the head of the Zaylai’ Qadiri Tariqah Organisation and imam of the Islamic Association Mosque in Melbourne.
World-renowned Munshid Shaykh Mansour
Zaietar from Damascas, Syria presented a moving nasheed performance with a group from Sydney.
Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti, Turkiye administrative and social affairs attache Prof Dr Harun Isik and Egyptian Ministry of Religious Affairs representative Shaykh Alaa Elzokm al-Azhari, were among a long list of dignitaries.
“The Seerah, the noble biography of the Prophet, is far more than history,” Cr Memeti said.
“It is a living guide for hearts, for societies. His life shines with timeless principles that
speak to every human being,”
The event highlighted the Prophet’s example of mercy, compassion, and guidance for humanity, an event spokesperson said.
“Beyond the lectures and performances, the conference fostered a spirit of togetherness, drawing people from diverse cultural and national backgrounds. Many described the gathering as a moment of spiritual upliftment and community bonding.”
The Seerah Conference was organized by the Zaylai Qadiri Tariqah, which hosts programs on spiritual growth, education, and community service.
By Early Learning Victoria
Early Learning Victoria Ngalambi is looking for passionate early childhood professionals, administration staff and centre cooks to help local children get the best start in life in 2026.
The centre, one of 14 government-owned early learning and childcare centres opening across the state in 2026, will offer long day care and integrated kinder programs.
Every day is different, which Early Learning Victoria chief executive Darren Youngs says is “really exciting” for staff at the four centres already operating.
“Our approach is to meet each child’s learning needs and preferences in individual ways, while ensuring that children have access to nutritious food, rest and relaxation and the opportunity for uninterrupted periods of play throughout the day.”
Youngs says every team member plays a vital role, with play-based learning and children’s development and wellbeing the focus.
“This includes our incredible early childhood teachers and educators, room leaders, chefs, administrators, educational leaders, assistant directors and centre directors,” he says.
Community is a big part of the culture at Early Learning Victoria, with centres rapidly becoming local hubs for child and family services, often conveniently co-located with local schools.
This gives young Victorians the best start in life and means families have the opportunity to go back to work if and when they choose.
Youngs says early childhood education and care is a rewarding and highly impactful career where you have the opportunity to instil a lifelong love of learning in our next generation.
“Staff at our centres have access to ongoing professional learning opportunities, including coaching and mentoring, career-development opportunities and upskilling,” he says.
“They also enjoy competitive wages and conditions.”
Urging qualified candidates to apply, Youngs also has some advice for anyone who’s interested but may be unsure where to start.
“If you are not yet qualified, please reach out to the Early Learning Victoria workforce team who can advise you on your first steps. Everyone starts somewhere.”
Early Learning Victoria is a child-safe organisation with a positive work culture supported by strong values.
Find out more at earlylearning.vic.gov.au/jobs or email elv.workforce@education.vic.gov.au
Greater Dandenong Environment Group has staged a tour of five formerly-grass nature strips which it has replanted into native gardens.
On a typically sunny and drizzly Melbourne day on 3 October, group volunteers, residents and Greater Dandenong councillor Rhonda Garad inspected the Verges for Nature project in Dandenong West.
One of the participants Shirley said she was “rapt to see there are people out there that have soul and want to beautify our old verges”.
“I am so happy with the result.”
Another participant, Stefan, was happy to match his nature strip to his plans for a native garden in his front yard.
“Grass is over-done and it doesn’t help with native bees, flora, or anything like that.
“By having native plants out the front we’re encouraging bees, we’re encouraging birds and I think that’s really important because as humans we’ve encroached on a lot of natural lands.
“I think that it’s really important that we all try a little bit harder to extend our native gardens especially, so we can get as many various insects in there and to feed our birds as well.”
GDEG president, Isabelle Nash was impressed by the participant’s commitment.
“We all enjoyed getting our hands in the dirt and turning the boring grass patches into vibrant and diverse gardens.
“Walking past the verges you can already see so many interesting plants that are flowering and attracting insects like bees and butterflies.”
As well as strengthening biodiversity, the new gardens “lifted the streetscape” and required less watering than lawns.
The Verges for Nature Project will continue next year in a different area of Greater Dandenong, Nash said.
“We hope that in a few years from now, all of our streets will have a handful of native verges and we will have corridors of native life in all of our neighbourhoods.”
Walking group
A relaxed, self-paced walk indoors, and a great way to stay active and social – rain or shine!
• Tuesday 14 October, 7.45am-8.45am at Endeavour Hills Shopping Centre, Matthew Flinders Avenue, Endeavour Hills (meet at Kmart entrance); free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positively-festival
Laughing yoga
Boost your mood, relax your body and share a laugh in this workshop designed for seniors.
• Tuesday 14 October, 10.30am-11.30am at 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free event. Details: libraries.greaterdandenong.vic.gov. au/lib-seniors-festival
History of Dandenong Town Hall
The Place To Be: Dandenong Town Hall exhibition is celebrating 135 years of the iconic venue —now cherished as the Drum Theatre— which has stood as a cornerstone of local life. Explore its remarkable journey through photographs, fashion, stories, and shared memories.
• Mondays to Fridays, 10am-4pm from 15 October-20 February at Drum Theatre, 226 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong and Wednesdays and Thursdays 10am-2pm at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens (Benga), 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong; free event.
Creative mosaics
Create a beautiful mosaic tile for your home or garden over a three-week period. Learn essential techniques including design, glass cutting, tiling, and grouting. Participants must attend all three sessions.
• Wednesdays 15, 22 and 29 October, 9.30am12pm at Endeavour Hills Neighbourhood Centre, 10 Raymond McMahon Boulevard, Endeavour Hills; free event. Bookings at casey.vic.gov. au/ageing-positively-festival
Slot-car racing
Relive childhood memories, share laughs, and enjoy the thrill of the track with fellow enthusiasts.
• Thursday 16 October, 10am-12pm at Mr Slot Car, 3/42-46 Hallam South Road, Hallam; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positively-festival
Start a vegie garden
Do you have a back yard that needs bit of tender care? Do you like home grown veggies on your plate? Learn how to start a vegetable garden at home and
explore the beautiful plant display organised by the City of Greater Dandenong Horticulture team.
• Thursday 16 October, 10.30am-11.30am at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Details: libraries.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/lib-seniors-festival
Myuna Farm walks
Join us for a walk around the Myuna Farm wetlands this Walktober. Free admission to Myuna Farm is included with your ticket.
• Thursdays during October, 11am-12pm at Myuna Farm, 182 Kidds Road, Doveton; free event
Seniors safety forum
Informative session hosted by Victoria Police, Elder Rights Australia and the City of Greater Dandenong, designed to support and empower our seniors in our community. Covers your rights in aged care, elder abuse, cyber scams, support services. Light morning tea provided.
• Thursday 16 October, 10am - 12pm at Springvale City Hall, 18 Grace Park Avenue, Springvale. Bookings essential: 8571 5556 or positiveageing@cgd.vic.gov.au
Noble Park Community Centre Art Show
A vibrant, multi-day exhibition featuring paintings, photography, and mixed media works by local artists. Our exhibition offers something for everyone: from casual browsers and art lovers to collectors and supporters of emerging talent. Accessible for people with disability.
• Friday 17 October 10am-4pm, Saturday 18 October 10am-6pm and Sunday 19 October 10am-4pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Ross Reserve, Noble Park; free event. Details: npccartshow.org Tea and Tech
Learn about new technology over a cup of tea (or coffee). Learn more about how to use your mobile devices, how to make video calls with your family and how to connect with your friends from around the world through social media.
• Friday 17 October, 2.30pm-3.30pm at Springvale Community Hub; Wednesday 22 October, 2.30pm-3.30pm at Keysborough Community Hub, and Friday 31 October, 2.30pm-3.30pm at Dandenong Library. Free events, registration required. Details: libraries.greaterdandenong.
vic.gov.au/lib-seniors-festival
Spring Fair
Ferris wheel, fun activities, live performances, food and beverage trucks, and plenty of lawn. Feel free to bring picnic gear. Note: no BYO alcohol or glass.
• Saturday 18 October, 10am-4pm at Keeley Park, Main Road, Clayton South; free event. Details: kingston.vic.gov.au/spring-fair
Afghan cultural event
Join Afghan and local communities to share culture, stories, music, food and build connections.
• Sunday 19 October 6pm-11.30pm at Endeavour Hills Neighbourhood Centre, 10 Raymond McMahon Boulevard, Endeavour Hills; free event. Details: casey.vic.gov.au/ageing-positively-festival
Make your keepsake calendar
Turnyourtreasuredphotographstomakea12-month calendar online with the assistance of students from a local high school. Will be printed professionally for you to take home. Light refreshments provided.
• Monday 20 October 11am-12.30pm at Springvale Library, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Details: libraries.greaterdandenong.vic. gov.au/lib-seniors-festival
Preserve precious garments
Discover the secrets to preserving your precious garments and heirlooms with textile conservator Larry Edwards. Bring along an item or photograph for discussion. Afternoon tea provided.
• Wednesday 22 October, 1.30pm at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens (Benga House), 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong; free event. Bookings required at greaterdandenongevents.bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ev_7 e9b49ae959d441895ad868cf828c898
Choir concert
Cranbourne Chorale presents “Showtime”, a varied mix of music that will have you tapping your toes. A delicious afternoon tea will be served after the concert. A fantastic hamper will be raffled off.
• Sunday October 26, 2pm at Presbyterian Church, cnr Sladen and Russell streets, Cranbourne; adult $25, conc. $20, children under 12 $5. Tickets available at the door, or book on 0438 358 032 or Humanitix website.
WOW! Childrens exhibition
Amazing artwork created by grade 5 students from Dandenong West Primary School, guided by local art-
ist, Abhijit Pal. Students reflected on their personal and family histories, cultural identities, and aspirations through drawing, writing, and mixed media.
• Mondays-Fridays 9am-5pm until 7 November at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove Springvale; free event.
Indoor Pickleball
Casual, indoor pickleball sessions. All equipment provided during this coach-free session.
• Mondays 7pm-8pm and Wednesdays 10am11am at Olive Road Sporting Complex, 2 Frawley Road, Eumemmerring; free cost, or Sundays 12.30pm-2.30pm at Vickerman Building, Casey Stadium, Cranbourne; $6.20 for two hours. Bookings: trybooking.com/events/ landing/1343237 (Olive Road) or 5996 6052 (Casey Stadium).
“WE” - Women’s Empowerment Workshops
Workshops designed to uplift and empower women from all backgrounds in a fun and supportive environment. Topics around personal welbeing such as Self Defence, Financial Independence, Bollywood dancing, Psychology and Japanese Ink Art.
• Wednesdays 10.30am-12.30pm at Paddy O’Donoghue Centre, 18-34 Buckley Street, Noble Park. Free event. Details: 0490 059 026 or kerry@adec.org.au
Register at https://forms.gle/XnfaMAUHPHqBYq5u5
Noble Park playgroup
Spend time with other parents, grandparents and guardians for social interaction as your children play. All families with children aged 0-5 are welcome no matter your circumstances, background or cultural identity. Please bring along a piece of fruit to share for afternoon tea, and watch as the kids enjoy our jumping castle, craft, library and numerous other toys.
• Wednesdays 9.30am at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $4 per session.
Laps & Lattes
Walk with a group around Ross Reserve to talk, stay fit, and enjoy a coffee and chat back at the Community Centre every Friday morning, a fun and social way to start the weekend.
• Fridays 9.30am at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; free event.
By Blair Burns
The clash between Springvale South and Hallam Kalora Park was shaping up to be the game of the round ... but it wasn’t as evenly-matched as many predicted.
The Bloods destroyed and demoralised the Hawks, staking their claim as one of the hot premiership favourites to win by 10 wickets.
Springvale South skipper Cam Forsyth won the toss and sent the visitors in to bat first at Alex Nelson Reserve, a decision that paid dividends.
The bowlers troubled the batsmen early and once they removed the top three, the rest of the team collapsed, only Ryan Hillard making double figures beyond that point with 10 – the team was all out for 86 off only 28 overs.
Dasun Opanayaka, who came to the club from Elsternwick, took the new ball for the Bloods and delivered as he got Leigh Booth (nine) caught behind and Hawks prized recruit Jawid Khan (24), trapping him LBW.
Left-arm spinner Jarryd Straker was a wrecking ball, creating all sorts of problems for Hallam Kalora Park.
Straker finished with 5/18 off seven overs in what was a brilliant start to the season from both an individual and team perspective.
In reply, the Bloods made light work of the run chase as opening pair Ryan Quirk (44 not out) and Mitchell Forsyth (41 not out) hit the leather around with conviction.
Springvale South couldn’t have started the season any better, chasing down the runs inside 16 overs and upsetting last year’s grand finalists.
In other games, Buckley Ridges started its premiership defence perfectly, defeating Beaconsfield by six wickets after posting a huge total of 4/262.
The top four were brilliant for the Bucks, with captain Jayson Hobbs (48) setting the tone, while Dale Tormey (89) backed up last week’s innings with Pakenham nicely.
New recruit from HSD, Triyan De Silva (45) and Ben Wright (45) continued to push the Bucks to a big total of 262.
While Ishan Jayarathna bowled two no-balls in the first over after the break, De Silva would soon knock over former Buck Jake Cronin for a duck, and Jack Steel for 12.
Mitchell Tielen (36 not out) top scored for the Tigers in the run chase, but Buckley Ridges Harry Snowden did some damage as he took three wickets to keep Beaconsfield to 9/142 off the 45 overs.
As was expected, Parkmore Pirates found it tough going up against Dandenong West, getting bowled out for 95 as they attempted to chase 216.
The Bulls batted first and were 5/84 before skipper Riley Siwes (54 off 82) and Dinesh Kulasekara (79 off 55) put on a 100-run partnership to post a strong total.
Duck, duck, duck, 12, duck, is how the scorebook looked for the Pirates’ top order as Joel Zietsman (2/25), Kulasekara (2/2) and Siwes (2/11) impressed with the ball.
Berwick posted a big score of 7/228 to set itself up for a victory over Narre South, who were
bowled out for 115 in reply.
Bears captain Michael Wallace (66) led the way for his side, while Jake Hancock (52), Jarryd Wills (32) and Lachlan Brown (39) all performed well – Tom Arnold took three wickets for the Lions.
Jeevan Mendis was the only Narre South player to look comfortable at the crease, making a half century, but it wasn’t enough to see his team home as James Trodd (3/27) and Tom Davis (4/31) were brilliant.
TURF 1 RESULTS
R1 Results: Buckley Ridges 4/262 def Beacons-
field 9/142, Springvale South 0/87 def Hallam Kalora Park 86, Berwick 7/228 def Narre South 115, Dandenong West 7/216 def Parkmore Pirates 95.
Ladder: Buckley Ridges, Dandenong West, Berwick, Springvale South 6, Narre South, Parkmore Pirates, Beaconsfield, Hallam Kalora Park. R2 Fixture (Two-Day): Buckley Ridges v Dandenong West at Dandenong Park, Narre South v Springvale South at Strathaird Recreation Reserve, Hallam Kalora Park v Berwick at Hallam Recreation Reserve, Parkmore Pirates v Beaconsfield at Frederick Wachter Reserve.
By Blair Burns
Silverton has made its mark on the DDCA Turf 2 competition as the Bakers defeated HSD in the opening round to win by 36 runs.
The Turf 2 challengers posted a strong score of 225 at Springvale Reserve, before bowling out the Cobras for 189.
Silverton captain Robert North (64) and Anmol Zakhmi (71) ventured to the crease to bat first after losing the toss.
The pair batted beautifully together, North playing more of an anchor role while Zakhmi punished everything.
They put on a 119-run partnership before HSD bowler Sakuntha Liyanage got the breakthrough, followed by a couple of wickets from Luke Grady.
Kevin Seth (3/50), Grady (3/41) and Liyanage (2/45) were the best performers with the ball for HSD.
With 225 to chase, there wasn’t too much time to get yourself in for the Cobras top order and while they all got starts, Rohit Sandhu removed the top three to finish with figures of 3/27 off nine overs.
Anuda Akmeemana (38) offered some resistance for HSD, but they were ultimately bowled out as Varinder Virk and Kalapu Gamage took two wickets apiece.
In other games, Lyndale knocked off North Dandenong in a game where 520 runs were scored at Lois Twohig Reserve.
It was a consistent batting performance from
Sissons: 466724)
Lyndale, who posted 9/283 batting first thanks to strong scores from Rajika Fernando (59 not out), Satnam Singh (49) and Himesh Don (42).
While it appeared Lyndale was well in control, some late order firepower from North Dandenong gave the Maroons a pulse.
Muhammad Khan (60) and Masih Rawani
(33 not out) sparked some belief in the chase, but the team was bowled out 46 runs short of Lyndale’s target.
Parkfield defeated Coomoora in a thrilling match which went down to the last over, after a dramatic collapse saw the Blues win by five runs.
They were cruising at 2/144 in the 37th over of the game, and it looked like Coomoora was home.
At the beginning of the final over, the equation was seven runs required for victory and they had three wickets in hand – being bowled out was a very faint possibility.
Parkfield captain Dishan Malalasekera was the hero, not only did he score 92 with the bat and take five wickets – he took three wickets in the space of four balls in the 45th over – yes, you read that correctly.
Narre Warren was too good for Cranbourne in the opening round of Turf 2 as Hennadige Fernando (48 and 4/27) guided his side home to victory.
The Magpies always backed themselves to chase Cranbourne’s first innings total of 7/166, and that they did.
TURF 2 RESULTS
R1 Results: Lyndale 9/283 def North Dandenong 237, Silverton 225 def HSD 189, Parkfield 7/183 def Coomoora 178, Narre Warren 6/169 def Cranbourne 7/166.
Ladder: Parkfield, Lyndale, Silverton, Narre Warren 6, Cranbourne, HSD, North Dandenong, Coomoora 0.
R2 Fixture (Two-Day): Narre Warren v Silverton at Sweeney Recreation Reserve, Lyndale v Coomoora at BJ Powell Reserve, Parkfield v North Dandenong at Parkfield Reserve, HSD v Cranbourne at K.M Reedy Recreation Reserve.
By David Nagel
Winning the toss and bowling has proven to be a recipe for defeat for both Endeavour Hills and Noble Park on the opening day of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association (VSDCA) season.
Endeavour Hills skipper Tyrell Panditharatne called correctly at Sydney Pargeter Reserve and sent the visiting Altona into bat; with two early breakthroughs giving the home side some hope. Tallha Ahmed (2/50) made the early impact, having Altona 2/8 at one stage before two solid partnerships changed the course of the match.
The Eagles had no answer to the class of opener Connor Brown (69) and number-four Adam Yates (95), who stacked on 143 runs for the third wicket.
Blaize Bainbridge (2/49) broke the partnership, but Altona skipper James Grubb (45 not out) then made the most of his 24 balls at the crease.
Grubb hit six fours and two maximums, dominating a 66-run partnership with Yates that took the visitors to 4/231 from their 45 overs.
The Eagles made a good fist of things in reply, with Zac Perryman (54), Adish Bhavsar (54) and Ashwanth Nagendra (30) making valuable contributions…but the task was always too great.
The Eagles finished at 8/202, 30 runs short of their target, with Yates taking 3/37 for Altona to complete a brilliant all-round display.
Noble Park captain Janaka Liyanabadalge also decided that bowling first was the best option against Balwyn at Balwyn.
Two early wickets to Yehan Gunasingha (3/26)
Noble Park star Sahan Perera opened his 2025/26 campaign with a stylish half-century against Balwyn on Saturday. (Rob Carew: 396621)
had Liyanabadalge looking like a genius, but Balwyn’s top-to-middle order then dominated the session prior to tea.
Scott Edwards (93), Pierre Jacod (52) and Adi
By David Nagel
MDDA Bullseyes will almost certainly play finals in Division 1 of the Mountain Dart League this season after banking a dominant 18-3 victory over Redbacks 1.
Bullseyes sat fourth, but only one game clear of the Redbacks heading into the crucial match up, but showed their class to open up a two-game gap as the highly-anticipated finals series approaches quickly.
Luke Powell was the star for Bullseyes, throwing two 140s on the night and a 106 pegout.
The impressive peg capped off an 18-dart leg, with scores of 140 and 125 to begin with.
Quick legs were the theme of the night at Elliott Road, with Brendan Simmonds constructing a 15dart leg in a 13-8 victory for ladder leaders High 5’s over Check Out.
Simmonds had visits of 60, 140, 125 and 60 before polishing things off with a classy 116 finish.
Nga Tangatakino fired in a 180 for Check Out, but a maximum from Gary Warner showed High 5’s had all the answers.
Nathan Wright was in terrific form for Outcasts, despite going down 12-9 to third-placed Noble Park 1.
Wright opened up his best leg of the night - a 16-darter - with a 180, then nailed his attempt at double 16.
Mat Gordon also threw a 180 for Out Casts, while teammate Jason Sandham put together a 109 finish.
And Harry Pearce knocked in a 177 visit in The Chiefs 16-5 victory over Rebels.
Brian Pacey threw a 92-peg for Rebels, but The Chiefs proved too hot.
In Division 2, a rock-solid team display saw Spectrum score a 13-8 triumph over Redbacks 2.
Kevin Frost, Mick Bellette and James Hughes all knocked in 140s for Spectrum, while Jay Knox put together a best-of-the night 85 pegout.
And The Night Trawlers remain in second place after a hard-fought win over MDDA Black Bulls. Black Bulls provided the highlights, with Shane Taylor throwing 156 and Sean Davies a 54-peg, but The Night Trawlers were overall too good.
And the top two teams in Division 3 both made grand statements, with The Goodies and Madarras in tip-top form.
Kevin Johnson threw a fantastic 17-dart leg for The Goodies, who prevailed 16-5 over Stingers, despite a 180 from Brad Brooks and 55-peg from
2 of the
(Supplied: 509838)
Brittany Brooks.
Johnson went 41, 100, 140, 98 and 74 before finishing with two darts on 48.
And Madarras defeated Stingrays 14-7, with Brent Wright knocking in a 180 and Michael Bignell a 98-peg.
There will be no darts played this Friday October 17, with a large contingent of MDL players heading to Morwell for its annual Caulfield Cup weekend tournament.
• DIVISION1
RESULTS: MDDA Bullseyes def Redbacks (1) 18-3, The Chiefs def Rebels 16-5, High 5’s def Check Out 13-8, Noble Park (1) def Out Casts 12-9.
LADDER: High 5’s 48, The Chiefs 32, Noble Park (1) 28, MDDA Bullseyes 28, Redbacks (1) 20, Check Out 16, Rebels 12, Out Casts 8.
FIXTURE (October 24): MDDA Bullseyes v Rebels, High 5’s v Noble Park 1, The Chiefs v Redbacks (1), Check Out v Out Casts.
• DIVISION2
RESULTS: Spectrum def Redbacks (2) 13-8, The Night Trawlers def MDDA Black Bulls 11-10. Bye: The Bandits.
LADDER: The Bandits 32, The Night Trawlers 24, Spectrum 20, MDDA Black Bulls 16, Redbacks (2) 4.
FIXTURE (October 24): Redbacks (2) v The Bandits, Spectrum v The Night Trawlers. Bye: MDDA Black Bulls.
• DIVISION3
RESULTS: The Goodies def Stingers 16-5, Madarras def Stingrays 14-7. Bye: Vales (3).
LADDER: The Goodies 36, Madarras 32, Stingrays 16, Vales (3) 12, Stingers 0.
FIXTURE (October 24): Madarras v Vales (3), Stingrays v The Goodies. Bye: Stingers.
Narayana (48) had Noble chasing leather all innings, while late runs to Toby Booth (20), Jackson Ellingworth (20) and Lachlan Fitzpatrick (15) pushed the total to an impressive 8/290 from Bal-
wyn’s allotted overs.
An asking rate of almost 6.5 per over was always going to prove difficult for Noble and the fall of early wickets made the task nigh on impossible.
Champion left-hander Sahan Perera (60) was the only player to challenge, with Nikual Sharma (26) providing the one and only sign of support. Ellingworth took 4/39 for Balwyn; rolling Noble for 166 and guiding his team to a 124-run victory.
Noble Park host bottom-placed Williamstown on day one of a two-day clash this Saturday, while Endeavour Hills heads to round-one loser Donvale.
VSDCASUMMARY
R1 RESULTS: Balwyn 8/290 def Noble Park 166, Donvale 8/157 def by Taylors Lakes 3/163, Endeavour Hills 8/202 def by Altona 4/231, Mt Waverley 2/161 def Box Hill 157, Hoppers Crossing 5/185 def Yarraville 182, Spotswood 6/199 def Croydon 9/198, Werribee 140 def by Melton 7/142, Williamstown 9/137 def by Bayswater 0/140.
LADDER: Mt Waverley 6, Taylors Lakes 6, Altona 6, Balwyn 6, Hoppers Crossing 6, Spotswood 6, Melton 6, Bayswater 6, Werribee 0, Croydon 0, Yarraville 0, Noble Park 0, Endeavour Hills 0, Donvale 0, Box Hill 0, Williamstown 0.
FIXTURE – R2 (Two-Day: 18-25 October): Box Hill (15) v Balwyn (4), Croydon (10) v Bayswater (8), Donvale (14) v Endeavour Hills (13), Noble Park (12) v Williamstown (16), Altona (3) v Werribee (9), Hoppers Crossing (5) v Spotswood (6), Melton (7) v Taylors Lakes (2), Yarraville (11) v Mt Waverley (1).
By Jonty Ralphsmith
A 100-run opening partnership between Brett Forsyth and Ryan Hammel guided Dandenong to a formidable score of 6/256 against reigning premier St Kilda at Shepley Oval on Saturday.
Forsyth’s 54 followed a century in round one, while Hammel made 77 off 182 before being trapped in front by part timer Harry Dixon.
On a perfect day for cricket where 99 overs were bowled, disciplined bowling prevented the Panthers from ever fully getting away from the visitors, but handy middle-order contributions from Dhanusha Gamage, Shobit Singh and Josh Slater helped a competitive score getting put on the board.
It follows a strong round one win for Dan-
denong against Fitzroy-Doncaster.
Dandenong’s women’s had two heavy defeats on the weekend, beaten by Prahran by 10 wickets after struggling to 120 in a T20, before being unable to chase down Melbourne’s 2/209.
Dandenong’s men’s Second XI is on the back foot at stumps on day one against St Kilda, conceding 7/365, with Rachit Sharma’s 1/43 leading the attack.
A 100-run fifth-wicket partnership and century to Abhikaran Singh Chhina helped Dandenong’s Third XI put 4/288 on the board after Sayed Rihan laid the foundation with 74 from number three.
The Fourth XI kept St Kilda to 7/255 with Karitikay Sharma, Sultan Sayed and Prathik Balachandhar each taking two wickets.
