Dandenong Star Journal - 11th November 2025

Abraham a young leader

By Sahar Foladi

The Victorian Young Australian of the Year 2026 is based right in the South East, recognised for his impactful positive changes in the region.

Abraham Kuol, a respected South Sudanese youth leader who co-founded the popular Black Rhinos and volunteers at Sandown Lions Club, leads young people through sports pathways.

He was announced as the state winner at the evening of Thursday 6 November in a grand ceremony also attended by his family and partner.

“I didn’t even sleep that much, I feel very good,” he says.

“You never know what to expect, you just go into these moments. I was honoured to be there and nominated.

“I made amends with all possible outcomes, but it was incredible to experience that with my family and partner.

“My mum was tearing the whole time, it’s a testament to their resilience.

“With most migrant children in Australia, that’s the greatest thing you can do, showing their sacrifice and hard work was something.”

Born in a Kenyan refugee camp, his family fled the civil war in South Sudan to Australia for safety, where Kuol struggled with his identity and belonging.

Gradually, being part of the sports community he saw and heard a lot from people from all walks of lives who also mentored him.

Following the same pattern, that teenager has now won for his immense contributions amongst a competitive pool who were also nominated under the same category.

Other finalists were a scientist and disability advocate from Gnarwarre, a doctor and innovative scientific researcher from Craigiburn and a public policy advocate from Kew.

Kuol wants to be the one to lead by example and calls onto others in the community to do the same and “lookout for each other.”

“I’m passionate about my work because I want to see the South Sudanese community to do well, to feel there isn’t a goal or dream, too big for them.”

He is in the last stages to complete his PhD in Criminology at Deakin University.

His interests include youth violence, risk, and protective factors for offending, and culturally and linguistically diverse young people.

Kuol has helped raise over $3.5 million for programs to support African-Australian families and justice-involved youth.

He is one of the 10 recipients of a Westpac Social Change Fellowship scholarship 2025.

The fellowship provides up to $50,000 funding towards personal development for conferences, coaching, as well as overseas learning trips for professional development.

Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti paid tribute to Kuol as a “highly respected youth leader who uses his considerable energy and talents to

help young people in his community”.

“His work across Greater Dandenong has made a huge impact on the prospects and success of our young people.

“We are so proud of his work, and of his recognition as Young Australian of the Year for Victoria. He is a fine example of the positive, constructive

Council misses its 2025 ‘net-zero’ target

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Greater Dandenong Council’s net-zero emissions target could be blown out by a decade.

Originally, the net-zero target was hoped to be achieved this year.

A council report has recommended an updated target of 2035 at a further cost of $24.6 million, as part of a draft strategy Our Bright Green Future.

This revised target was however “subject to funding”, including grants.

It is estimated to cost a further $17 million in capital works at council facilities, including removing gas assets.

About $6.5 million would fund the council’s Active Transport Infrastructure Priority Program for better pedestrian and cycling networks, and another $1.1 million on other initiatives.

The report recommends reducing emissions, rather than purchasing offsets.

“While it is acknowledged that a considerable financial investment is required, the importance of meeting the challenge of climate change in a timely manner is becoming more important with the continually worsening climate conditions across the planet,” the report stated.

“It is also important to note continuing the ‘status quo’ with gas infrastructure will likely see utility costs skyrocket in coming years.

“As such, taking action sooner rather than later will see long term financial savings for Council.”

Since 2019, Greater Dandenong had achieved a more than 80 per cent reduction in emissions – making it one of the highest performing Melbourne councils, the report stated.

Achievements included signing up to the Victoria Energy Collaboration (VECO) power purchase agreement, installing 600 kilowatts of solar PV panels, low-emission fleet vehicles and transitioning gas assets to electric.

In 2020, the council declared a climate and ecological emergency.

The draft Our Bright Green Future strategy consolidates eight council strategies and seven action plans into one document. It simplifies 544 actions into 74.

It stated that climate change had a disproportionate impact on vulnerable people with poor housing, a lack of cool spaces and drastic impacts on human health, finances and social cohesion.

“Climate change is no longer a distant issue, it is shaping our lives, our health, our finances and the places we call home,” the strategy stated.

“In the City of Greater Dandenong, we are seeing these impacts worsen every year

through increasing demands on our natural resources, more frequent extreme weather events, and rising cost of living placing pressure on our community’s ability to adapt.”

As a manufacturing hub, Greater Dandenong had a “unique opportunity” to lead in renewable technology and low-carbon manufacturing.

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

It was to instead invest the $128,249 saved this year – and more than $400,000 over three years – into its own climate change “priorities”.

nominees.(Supplied)

contributions made by many of the young people who live and work in our community.”

Out of all the 16 nominees across four categories, Mr Kuol was one of two South East finalists. The other was Springvale-based refugee support advocate Be Ha in the Victorian Senior Australian of the Year category.

Sustainability win

Greater Dandenong Council has been recognised for its outstanding commitment to sustainability.

This week the council won the 2025 Cities Litter Award, at the 43rd Annual Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria Tidy Towns and Cities Sustainability Awards.

The awards celebrate environmental achievements and strong community spirit across Victoria, acknowledging initiatives that empower people, change behaviours, protect the environment, reduce waste, engage youth and Indigenous communities, and foster resilience.

Council’s waste services team received this award for the, ‘Bin It or Take It Home With You’ campaign, which educates the community about proper litter disposal and raises awareness of its harmful impact on the environment.

“This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our Waste Services Team, not just for this project, but for the work they do every day,” city futures executive director, Sanjay Manivasagasivam said. “We’re proud to lead initiatives that make our city cleaner.”

Council says the recognition highlights efforts in working with the local community towards a cleaner, greener Greater Dandenong, today and for generations to come.

The campaign was supported by Melbourne Water’s Liveable Communities Liveable Waterways Program and the Lower Dandenong Creek Litter Collaboration.

Visit greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/bin-it for more information.

Abraham Kuol secured the award from an impressive list of

Abraham Kuol was recognised for his impactful work for the young South Sudanese communities through sports.(Supplied)

Casey resident, PhD student and youth leader

Abraham Kuol won the Young Victorian Australian of the Year award for 2026. (Supplied)

Greater Dandenong Council has reduced carbon emissions by 80 per cent since 2019, but missed its 2025 net-zero target. (Gary Sissons: 344241)

Proud team of City of Greater Dandenong Council’s waste service team won a sustainability award. (Supplied)

Tunnel is almost ready...

By Violet Li

The city’s mega-project, the $13.5 billion Metro Tunnel, will fully launch on 1 February 2026.

A partial opening will begin in early December.

Hailed as the biggest network change since the City Loop 40 years ago, the Metro Tunnel links the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines in the south east with the Sunbury line in the north west.

Trains on these lines will no longer travel through the City Loop, instead running through a brand-new underground corridor with five new stations: Arden, Parkville, State Library, Town Hall, and Anzac.

Why is the Metro Tunnel being built?

Transport Infrastructure Minister Gabrielle Williams said the City Loop is at capacity.

“What that means is that it’s effectively a significant barrier to us being able to add services

around the network for generations to come, which is where the Metro Tunnel comes in,” she said.

“At any given point in time, there is a range of different infrastructure projects that we could do, just about every train line in the network. We’re always looking at what the next wave of projects is.

“But until you address the problem of the City Loop, the fact that that was at capacity, none of those other projects would really deliver the value that you’d want to see from them because they’re always going to hit that choke point at the City Loop.

“Now that we’ve done this and freed up that choke point, it then makes possible a lot of other things.”

When the tunnel opens to passengers on 1 February 2026, it will offer more frequent services on those lines: over 1000 new weekly services for the Sunbury line, and over 100 new weekly ser-

vices for the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines. A “turn-up-and-go” service.

By then, as the City Loop has been freed up a bit, the Frankston line will return to the City Loop, running via the loop stations such as Parliament Station, Melbourne Central Station, and Flagstaff Station.

According to Victoria’s Big Build, this increase in services means passengers from West Footscray to Dandenong will have a train at least every 10 minutes all day, every day of the week. Peak services will be on average every 3 to 4 minutes for passengers between Watergardens and Dandenong.

Full timetables will be available ahead of February 2026, so commuters can plan their journey.

Ms Williams said the Metro Tunnel stands apart from other major rail projects around the world, even from Sydney Metro or London’s Crossrail, because of how deeply it is woven into Melbourne’s existing network.

Unlike those standalone systems, the Metro Tunnel is a fully “integrated network”, sharing tracks with suburban, regional, and even freight services.

“You can’t timetable it on its own,” the Minister said, noting that key interchange stations like Footscray and Caulfield link multiple corridors.

This means that when the State flips the switch on 1 February 2026, it won’t just be introducing a new timetable for one line. Instead, it will be retimetabling almost the entire metropolitan network, including buses, to align with the new rhythm of train services.

The project’s cost is $13.48 billion, excluding extra funding from the project’s major contractor. The cost has increased by around 23 per cent from its original budget ($11 billion) in 2016.

The planning work first started in April 2015, and the major construction began in August 2019.

Ultimate guide: How to navigate the new Metro Tunnel

By Violet Li

The Metro Tunnel, the city’s $13.5 billion mega-project, will open to the public in two phases: a partial opening in early December, and a full-service launch (called The Big Switch) on 1 February 2026.

It links the Cranbourne and Pakenham lines in the south east with the Sunbury line in the north west.

Trains on these lines will no longer travel through the City Loop, instead running through a brand-new underground corridor with five new stations: Arden, Parkville, State Library, Town Hall, and Anzac.

Star News is aware that a new network could be confusing at the beginning, even the Transport Infrastructure Minister Gabrielle Williams admitted that when she conducted a site tour for the media, so for those who use the Cranbourne/ Pakenham line, this is the ultimate guide for you to navigate it. Suppose you are a commuter who works within the City Loop: Your Cranbourne or Pakenham train will no longer pass through the City Loop. Instead, it will enter the Metro Tunnel before South Yarra Station (bypassing South Yarra), stopping at the new stations: Town Hall and State Library.

If you usually get off at Flinders Street Station, you’ll now need to change at Town Hall Station using the Degraves Street Subway to Flinders Street Station.

If you usually get off at Melbourne Central Station, you’ll now need to change at State Library

Station using the concourse to Melbourne Central Station.

If you usually get off at Parliament, Southern Cross, or Flagstaff, you’ll now need to change at CaulfieldorMalvernStationforaFrankstonlineservice that still runs through the City Loop.

Alternatively,youcangetoffatTownHallorState Library Station and walk through the underground pedestrian connections to Flinders Street or Melbourne Central, where you can easily transfer to Loop services on other lines.

Suppose you are a Melbourne University student: Congratulations,thetimeofgettingoffatMelbourne Central Station and tapping on trams will be gone. The last mile problem is effectively solved. Now, you can hop off at the new Parkville Station, right under the university precinct.

Suppose you want to visit your relative in the West, let’s say Sunbury: Before, you’d have to switch at Flinders Street or Southern Cross. Now, your Cranbourne or Pakenham train will continue straight through the tunnel and on to the Sunbury line — making it the first time the south east and north west are directly linked by train without a transfer through the City Loop.

Suppose you have a game to watch at MCG: You’llneedtochangeatCaulfieldorMalvernStation for a Frankston line train to Richmond Station, since Cranbourne and Pakenham trains will bypass RichmondoncetheyrunthroughtheMetroTunnel.

According to the Transport Minister, the transit will only take “a few extra minutes” with the upcoming “turn-up-and-go” services.

The tunnel alignment and the new five stations.

Suppose you are going to the south side of the Yarra River:

AnzacStationputsyouwithinwalkingdistanceofthe

Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Shrine of Remembrance, and Royal Botanic Gardens.

It also connects to trams for St Kilda, Albert Park, or South Melbourne Market for pre-show dining.

Suppose you have a hospital appointment You can now use Parkville Station, which connects directly to the Royal Melbourne Hospital, Royal Women’s Hospital, and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre.

This is a huge change for medical staff and patients who previously had to catch trams from Melbourne Central or Flinders Street.

For the partial opening from early December to 1 February, here’s the schedule. Monday - Friday Services through the Metro Tunnel will run between Westall and West Footscray every 20 minutes from 10am to 3pm Weekends Services through the Metro Tunnel will run about every 20 minutes between Westall and West Footscray from around 10am to 7pm. Services through the Metro Tunnel will run about every 40 minutes from East Pakenham and about every 60 minutes from Sunbury. All public transport will be free on weekends until 1 February 2026.

The State Library Station features a 10m-high arched ceiling above the platforms with chandelier lights designed and made in Melbourne.

The State Library Station was still undergoing remaining works. (Violet Li)

The platform has screen doors for safety, a first for Melbourne’s railway network.

Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams and Metro Tunnel executive project director Ben Ryan conducted a media tour of the State Library Station.

GP volunteers needed

By Sahar Foladi

A mobile medical service Street Side Medics, is coming to help Dandenong’s homeless but is facing a lack of GP volunteers.

The not-for-profit service collaborates with pre-existing charities, shelters, and services to provide crucial primary healthcare specifically for the homeless community.

It is on the lookout for medical volunteers of all types but in particular, GP volunteers in and around Greater Dandenong.

This wil be their first clinic in the south east, operating alongside Cornerstone Centre in Dandenong on Fridays. Two other services are based in Bourke Street, Melbourne and St Kilda.

Its CEO, Nicholas Brown says the GP-led service aims to operate in Dandenong by the end of November.

“By providing our clinic partnering with Cornerstone, we’re going to access a large group of people which may not otherwise have access to free primary care.

“A lot of the people we see and try to support often have health issues that are treatable, such as infections that we can provide prescription to prevent it from getting worse.”

The team are expecting to see similar health issues in Dandenong as with the other locations such as, infections mainly due to living in overcrowded dwellings, mental health issues, chronic health issues, drug and alcohol issues to name a few.

They never know what they’re dealing with until a check-up. Sometimes they have rushed a patient into surgery after suspected heart blockages.

“We saw a women recently who had infections so bad in her leg because she was housed in public housing where there was significant mould.

“The whole unit wasn’t well maintained. She was very close to developing sepsis.

“We were able to provide treatment, arrange her wound to be dressed twice a week for six-

months, admit her in hospital.

“She didn’t have trust in the hospital system as she’d lost her son to the hospital but by building trust we encouraged her to get the support she needed.”

The patient ended up moving into a retirement home.

Brown says they have secured four GP volunteers but require two more to have a smooth flow of monthly rotation.

“Finding GPs in Dandenong has been challenging, not unusually challenging but obviously GPs have already been stretched, seeing a huge amount of people.

“To find people willing to put up their hand and provide more of their time outside of their work is very difficult for good reasons.

“We know, being on a Friday during the day, a lot of GPs are already working, so we need to find volunteers who are semi-retired or working parttime.

“Once we set up, we look to operate as long as we’re needed, 10am-12pm every Friday every week.

“It provides people an opportunity to know we’re there, get the support, check in and have a regular contact with a GP and medical service.”

Dandenong’s staggering homelessness statistics attracted the service to the area with 69 listed as “actively homeless” last month and 49 rough sleeping, according to the Dandenong Zero website.

The municipality was ranked the highest homelessness rate in Victoria in the 2023 census. A lack of social and affordable housing is reportedly a major contributing factor, with many residents crammed in small dwellings.

In 2023, 1719 people were without a home on any given night, the majority housed in overcrowded dwellings, boarding houses and hotels, according to a Council to Homeless Persons report.

“We wanted to push further out in the suburbs where rates of homelessness are very high but not

have the same level of service,” Mr Brown says.

SSM will work alongside Cornerstone Centre, which is known for their hearty meals to vulnerable community members, as well as with partners including Orange Sky, One Voice Shower Van, The Avalon Centre Clothing and Greencross health bus.

While GPs are the “gateway” for people to access a wide variety of services, all it takes is the first step to visit a clinic to remedy treatable issues.

Street Side Medics founder Daniel Nour identified the gap in the healthcare for vulnerable people in his final year as a 24 year-old medical student living in Central London.

Despite being told not to bother with the initiative, that it won’t work, Dr Nour established SSM in August 2020 and was named the Young Australian of the Year in 2022.

With 400 volunteers across New South Wales and Victoria, SSM has proven to be life changing and crucial for the homeless community as they’re at higher risk of suffering from poor health outcomes, including higher morbidity and mortality due to a number of challenging barriers that limit their access to healthcare.

The SSM team have garnered wide coverage through 9Today, ABC News and A Current Affair.

Robber jailed for 8 years

By Corey Everitt

An armed robber who stole multiple firearms from the president of the Lang Lang Rifle Club has been jailed for almost nine years.

Tereapii Fred pleaded guilty before the County Court of Victoria to two indictments that included 11 charges related to burglary, armed robbery, firearm offences, using a false document, and possession of traffickable firearms.

The 30-year-old’s offending relates to two incidents, the first involving him pretending to be a police officer over the phone with the president of the Lang Lang Rifle Club.

Calling both the president and his daughter in October 2023, he told them he was “Constable Tottem” and that the president must attend Pakenham Police Station.

As the daughter drove the victim to Pakenham, they did not know that the man calling them was in a car, hired under a falsified driver’s licence, parked a street over from the president’s Koo Wee Rup address.

While they drove to Pakenham Police Station, where they were informed “Constable Tottem” did not exist, Mr Fred entered the property and stole seven firearms, two CB radios, a GMC radio, and thousands of rounds of ammunition, all valued at just over $16,500.

In November, Mr Fred and an associate drove a stolen vehicle to Mulgrave, where they robbed the Vale Hotel of $600 while wielding two hand-

guns that were repeatedly pointed at two victims during the offence.

Later that month, police executed a series of search warrants during which multiple firearms were recovered, including two buried in Scotchmans Creek Trail in Mount Waverley, and an illegal electronic jammer found at an address where Mr Fred was residing.

Mr Fred was arrested. His phone was found to bear the number that had been used to call the president of the rifle club, and his DNA was linked to samples found on a recovered pistol and the stolen vehicle.

Judge Robyn Harper said this “serious offending” required a “substantial degree of planning and sophistication” and was “no doubt terrifying” for the victims.

Judge Harper accepted his expression of remorse since pleading guilty and considered Mr Fred’s personal circumstances, which included experiences of family violence, homelessness, and drug abuse during childhood.

However, his existing criminal record, which includes a previous aggravated burglary conviction, and the seriousness of the offending meant Mr Fred posed an “ongoing risk” to the public. Judge Harper sentenced Mr Fred to eight years and nine months’ imprisonment, with a minimum non-parole period of five years and three months.

Mr Fred had served 705 days in detention by the day of his sentencing.

PM Anthony Albanese with the founder of Street Side Medics, Dr Daniel Nour who founded SSM at the age of 24.(Supplied)

County Court of Victoria. (File)

Disability homes

‘at risk’ in region

Thousands of people with complex disabilities are at risk of eviction from group homes that may close due to a looming funding crisis, say workers.

As of 31 December, an eight-year, $2.1 billion state government wage subsidy to Supported Independent Living (SIL) home providers in the private sector comes to an end.

The subsidy covered a shortfall between federal NDIS funding and the Disability Ser vices Enterprise Agreement Victoria.

With its imminent end, about 580 group homes were at jeopardy, and 4900 residents and families were at risk of eviction and losing their support workers, according to Health & Community Services Union.

Thirty group homes in Greater Dande nong, Casey and Cardinia Shire were report edly at risk.

The change also spells a 33 per cent pay cut for disability-support workers such as ‘Chris’, who has worked at a Noble Park group home for 18 years.

It would force workers to consider mov ing to other care sectors such as mental health and aged care, he says.

“I’m just wondering where I would go. I could step into another position but I don’t want to betray the work that I’ve done here.

“Will I have to work two jobs? With the difficult hours we do (including night shifts), it will break people.

“We’ve got 55 days to get enough money to keep paying us properly.

“It’s a bit of a crisis.”

Also gone would be a “gold standard” of staffing ratios and mandatory training, ac cording to the HACSU.

Chris says he’s worried it will water down the two support workers with a house super visor required to care 24/7 for residents with profound disabilities.

“The NDIS isn’t enough to support the things we need to have proper supervision and care.”

In 2019, government-operated SIL ac commodation was transferred to private providers Scope, Melba Suppot Services, Ar uma, Life Without Barriers and Possability.

Not-for-profit provider Scope stated that inadequate NDIS plans and “real and prob lematic” pricing gaps had contributed to closures.

“Most urgently, there are participants in supported independent living arrange ments whose plans do not adequately fund the critical supports they require.

but people were also choosing other options, Scope stated.

“These emerging options, disability housing standards, and people’s preferences sometimes mean an existing house no longer meets the needs of people.”

manage participant safety if their providers cease services, particularly for participants in supported living.

“If required, specialist NDIA teams can help affected participants transfer to new SIL and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) providers.”

Dangerous driving blitz

Victoria Police have booked dozens of drivers during a recent high-risk driving blitz in Greater Dandenong.

Last week, members from Springvale Police, Greater Dandenong Highway Patrol, and the Road Policing Alcohol and Drug Section issued 62 infringements during the operation, including a driver who had not held a licence for more than two years, police say.

Two learner drivers were allegedly detected driving without a supervising driver, while another learner driver returned a blood-alcohol reading of 0.082.

The three drivers had their vehicles impounded as a result.

Meanwhile, Victoria Police reportedly detected more than 6600 driving offences across the state during the Melbourne Cup long weekend.

Operation Furlong netted 2900 speeding offences, with 79 per cent between 10km/h and 25km/h over the speed limit.

There were 594 unregistered vehicles, 459 unauthorised drivers, 238 vehicle impounds, 234 drink-driving offences, 223 mobile phone offences and 135 drug-driving offences.

Two lives were lost on Victorian roads over the weekend, including a male on a mobility scooter who was hit by a car in Malvern East, and a male motorcyclist who collided with a car in Roxburgh Park, both on Sunday 2 November.

Book

“This shortfall has had a direct impact on some providers being able to continue to offer services under the current arrange ments.”

There was still demand for shared living

“The

and Community Services Union members rally outside State MP Nathan Lambert’s office in Preston this month. (HACSU)

Media’s vital role explored

At a time when misinformation spreads quickly and trust in institutions is under pressure, public interest journalism remains one of the last safeguards of accountability and community cohesion.

Across Victoria it is the local masthead in print and online that turns up to council meetings, scrutinises public decisions, documents community life and ensures local voices are heard.

A landmark Deakin University study has confirmed that the Victorian Government’s weekly advertising commitment to regional and rural mastheads has been a highly successful and internationally regarded policy model, giving publishers the stability to invest in journalism, retain staff and strengthen their civic role.

The research surveyed 85 Victorian Country Press Association mastheads and found that almost four in five publishers say the policy has provided the confidence needed to sustain and grow their newsroom investment, helping ensure communities remain informed and connected.

The report makes clear that government messaging delivered through trusted local outlets remains vital to healthy democratic participation. As the authors explain: “Public notices and essential information should be delivered through reliable local media channels that function as a journal of public record, because this is fundamental to democratic participation”.

Star News Group managing director Paul Thomas said the Victorian Government deserved enormous credit for its leadership in this space.

“Victoriadidsomethingnoothergovernment had the courage or foresight to do,” Mr Thomas said. “It recognised that public interest journalism is civic infrastructure and backed it with a stable, practical and world-leading model. Other states are now following Victoria’s lead because the results speak for themselves.

“When a masthead is properly supported, in

print and online, accountability thrives, participation increases and communities remain connected to the decisions that shape their lives.

“The Deakin report shows that Victoria has built a model that strengthens public interest journalism and gives communities confidence that trusted information will continue to be available.”

The study also highlights a growing policy gap in Melbourne’s fast-growing metropolitan fringe areas, where mastheads play the same role as their regional counterparts but are not currently covered by the commitment.

“Growth corridors such as Berwick, Cranbourne, Wyndham and Brimbank are now the size of major regional cities,” Mr Thomas said.

“These residents depend on their local masthead in print and online for trusted information about planning decisions, council accountability, emergency updates and civic life, yet they fall outside the current policy even though the democratic need is identical.

“Victoria has shown leadership by creating the strongest regional news model in the country. The logical next step is extending that certainty to metropolitan fringe communities whose population growth means they now function exactly like regional centres.”

The Deakin report concludes that mandated advertising remains the most stable, efficient and effective way for government to support public interest journalism, far more reliable than short-term grants or piecemeal schemes.

Mr Thomas said ensuring the policy evolved with population growth was the key to safeguarding journalism for the next generation.

“If the aim of the policy is to strengthen democracy and ensure credible public information reaches communities, then it should follow where communities are expanding. Metro-fringe Victorians deserve the same access to trusted mastheads in print and online as rural and regional Victorians.”

Border conflict opens old wounds for Thay

The recent clashes along the Thai–Cambodian border have reopened wounds that many of us hoped had long healed.

As someone who lived in the refugee camps near that border, I know firsthand how conflict leaves scars — not just on land, but on lives.

The Khao-I-Dang (KID) camp, once home to hundreds of thousands fleeing war, remains vivid in my memory.

I was there in the early 1980s as a young boy without family support, witnessing fear, loss, and incredible resilience.

A decade ago, I returned with my family to revisit the border and the former KID site, sharing the stories and memories that shaped my life.

I also returned in 1998 with my wife, before our children were born, photographing the Thai border gate, flag, and remaining refugee huts while speaking with people who stayed behind.

Recent conflict on the Thai-Cambodian border have activated these painful memories.

In July 2025, I joined thousands of Cambodian-Australian community members and religious leaders — including Australia’s most senior Cambodian monk — in a peaceful rally outside Victoria’s Parliament, calling for peace and protection of civilians in the border region.

In August, I addressed Greater Dandenong

Council, urging diplomatic engagement.

The council passed the motion and wrote to Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Australia’s Ambassador to Cambodia, Derek Yip.

I now hope the ceasefire agreement signed on 26 October 2025 — witnessed by US President Donald J Trump and ASEAN Chair, the Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim — is fully honoured.

And that the 18 Cambodian soldiers held hostage are released without delay.

A ceasefire cannot simply be words on paper.

Peace must be real — and measurable.

My experiences remind us that history is not distant. Its echoes shape our communities, responsibilities, and the ways we stand for peace today. Remembrance, civic engagement, and advocacy are how we ensure history does not repeat itself.

- Thay Horn Yim is public relations manager for Cambodian Buddhist Monk Council of Australia & New Zealand, chief advisor at Wat Buddharangsi Melbourne and a senior migration adviser.

Professor Kristy Hess from Deakin University undertook a study into regional media with colleague Alison McAdam.

Thay Horn Yim in front of the UNCHR refugee hut at Khao-I-Dang refugee camp in the early 1980s. As a young boy, he says he witnessed the resilience of thousands displaced by conflict. (Supplied)

Thay Horn Yim meets remaining refugee camp members when he returns in 1998. (Supplied)

By Thay Horn Yim

Talking Employment Hub

By Sahar Foladi

In the latest step towards a $1.5 million Greater Dandenong Employment Hub, a meeting was held between MPs, employers and City of Greater Dandenong Council officers.

The ball has been running with no major updates since the Labor party’s federal election promise by Treasurer Jim Charmers, together with Bruce MP Julian Hill, Isaacs MP Mark Dreyfus and Greater Dandenong mayor Jim Memeti in April

This would be the first of its kind development, however, no new or clear details are provided on how it will address the ongoing high rate of youth unemployment in the South East.

Hill confirmed the meeting which was also attended by Assistant Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Philip Gorman MP in the week of Monday 20 October.

“I joined with Assistant Minister Gorman in listening and to learn from the Dandenong community, employers, and Council about how the Hub can be designed to meet local needs and create real job opportunities.

“For the Hub to succeed, it must be co-designed with local employers, community networks, and Council. Strong partnerships will ensure the support offered is practical, relevant, and responsive to the local labour market.”

The employment hub was on council’s federal election priority list to fill the gap between the significant unemployment rate in Greater Dandenong and its booming well-known manufacturing sector.

With existing job services and organisations available, the employment hub is considered to “go further” to support those who may not be eligible for standard services, Hill says.

The “place-based” initiative will help connect local businesses with jobseekers and deliver employment support in the region.

Council’s strategy and corporate services executive director, Dr Marjan Hajjari said they’ve

taken on board what was discussed during the session.

“We’re carefully considering how the Hub will work, so we don’t duplicate any services or programs that already exist.

“We want to have maximum impact, and this will mean tailoring this hub especially for our local Dandenong economy.”

Labor councillor Phillip Danh says the hub is an opportunity to “play” to the advantages of the municipality.

“One of the big challenges is services exist but a lot of people might not necessarily know about it.

“The opportunity for an employment hub in Dandenong is a very exciting one. Hopefully it can be a way to centralise all that information in one spot so it’s a location for people to be able to

Charity golf day scratched

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

An annual charity golf event has been cancelled after Greater Dandenong Council diverted its logistical support to “other priorities”.

With the support of corporate sponsors, Take a Swing for Charity Golf Day has raised $715,000 for 19 local charities since 2009.

The next golf day in February 2026 was cancelled after council staff were no longer available to help organize and promote the event.

“Council has provided substantial in-kind support over the years through staff resourcing which are no longer available due to other priorities,” the report stated.

“This level of resourcing is no longer sustainable for (the) Council to provide, and the event would benefit from a dedicated event manager.

Previously, the council’s former South East Business Networks manager Sandra George OAM and “numerous” economic development staff were involved.

For next year, Greater Dandenong offered to provide some volunteer support and $10,000 sponsorship for an event manager.

It proposed a partnership between Greater Dandenong Chamber of Commerce and the event’s Committee of Sponsors to run the golf day.

The offer was accepted by the chamber of commerce and declined by the event’s sponsoring committee.

According to the council report, the committee decided there would be insufficient volunteer resources and funds raised.

“The recipient charity is unlikely to secure sufficient funds to make the event worthwhile, especially given the need to cover event management costs from the proceeds.”

Previously known as the mayoral charity golf day, the event was founded and continuously supported by partners Gelpack Pty Ltd (now KPJ Group) and SEBN.

It has raised funds for different chosen charities each year, including Noble Park Community Centre, Wellsprings for Women, Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, Cornerstone, Wallara and Avocare.

According to the council report, the Chamber of Commerce “remains open” to staging a future golf day.

“Council, subject to its annual budget process, may become a sponsor if future events are held.”

The council will also conduct a $70,000 feasibility study into a philanthropic foundation with business and community support to “financially give back to the local community”.

access and branch out further with the support they might need

“It’s about playing to our strengths. We’ve got the base in our region, we’ve got young people under 30 looking for opportunities close to home, so I think it’s a very good opportunity to unleash the potential of local employees in the area,” he said.

“One of the main challenges for people who work is the commute which can take up a large proportion of your day to and from work. So to have this base so close to home is something we can take advantage of and benefit our community.”

The employment hub will be housed inside the Dandenong Civic Centre on 225 Lonsdale Street to fill the vacant Bendigo Bank space.

Greater Dandenong is known to have an

above-national average rate of youth unemployment of 22 per cent as last reported by the Star Journal in August 2022.

The diverse multicultural community is facing an above-national-average unemployment rate of 6.7 per cent compared to a national average of 4 per cent in February 2025 according to Australian Bureau of Statistics Labour Force.

Youth unemployment in the South East region sits at 10.8 per cent according to Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Labour Force data in comparison to the national percentage of 9.5 per cent.

Meanwhile, community organisations and job agencies host job hunting programs for youth in the South East, such as IntoJob’s program Kicking Goals, Moving the Mob directed towards First Nations people, and SisterWorks sustainable production hub employment opportunities.

The Greater Dandenong Employment Hub was first pledged in the federal election lead-up by Julian Hill, Jim Chalmers, Mark Dreyfus and Jim Memeti in April.(Gary Sissons 471432_04)

Nirad Shah (KPJ Group), Grissel Walmaggia (NPCC), Gareth Wyatt (Telstra), Roz Blades (NPCC), Rick Stephenson (Booran Motors), David Willersdorf (Grenda Group) and Mayor Jim Memeti promote the 2025 Take a Swing event. (Stewart Chambers: 456778)

Sharing light in the dark

MESSAGE OF HOPE

By Numan Seyit, of Islamic faith and IFN member

Hope is a light in a dark tunnel.

Sometimes it’s only you that can see it.

Hope should not be selfish, though. It should be spread throughout, wherein we act not as just a receiver of that light, but rather a mirror, to reflect it towards those around us.

Some people have never tried looking towards that light.

Some have heard of it but never had the chance to see it.

As an Australian Muslim, one with the opportunity that many Muslims around the world pray for everyday, it is my duty to understand that I have that light.

It is my responsibility now to share that light with the people around me, to show that dark times are temporary and all it can take is a little bit of hope to make it through hard times.

I want to be the hope for the Muslim commu-

LOOKING BACK

100 years ago

12 November 2025

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The producers of Victoria are losing thousands of pounds through the communist-directed British Seamen’s Strike. When producers lose the whole community suffers. Every wage-earner is affected. Labor is honeycombed by the communists, who openly preach the abolition of private ownership of property. Stamp out Communism by returning the Government with a majority in both houses.

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• 2 Beardsworth

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50 years ago

10 November 1975

Church ‘boost’ to tourism

A church built in Dandenong according to the traditional Russian orthodox style would be a worthy tourist attraction and an asset to the municipality. Rev Fr. Michael Protopopov of the Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Melbourne said this when commenting on the refusal by Dandenong Council and the Board of Works of the Dandenong Russian community’s application to build a church for its people. He added “Rev Safronoff is quite correct when he wrote to Dandenong Council stating the church is part of life in the Russian Community. They cannot live

nity in Australia. I believe that there is a need for more Muslims within the interfaith dialogue.

People who are not ashamed to show their Islamic faith for what it is in a respectful and cooperative manner.

I aim to be a voice for Australian Muslims that allow for members of the public to realise the truth about Islam and clear their misconceptions.

I believe my character, now as a volunteer with the IFN, can shine a light towards those who are still asking questions or are confused.

without their church. The issue involved is really quite simple. This parish comprising 150 families wish to build a permanent church in true Russian Orthodox style, in which they could continue to glorify God in the manner of their fathers.”

20 years ago 14 November 2005

SOUTH PARK

Ex-sewerage plant to become retail precinct.

A disused Melbourne Water sewerage site in Dandenong South is set to become the jewel

in the city’s crown. The State Government has pledged $150 million to develop the land into a commercial and residential hub. Major Projects Minister, John Lenders announced that the 180-hectare site off Kirkham Road would be transformed to a picturesque retail precinct with nearby housing, wetlands and open space near Dandenong Creek. The project will be run in joint partnership with Melbourne Water and government development body VicUrban, which is already responsible for the $92 million Revitalising Central Dandenong project. The project’s

I also have hope in social media; its power is so pervasive, so widespread - like a window that all can see through.

I wish to utilise it to the best of my ability in creating a more harmonious society.

As a young person, I believe it can act as a tool towards bringing other youth to engage in effective interfaith dialogue, as well.

As a young Muslim Australian, I carry hope in my heart, woven from the threads of faith, resilience and unity.

Our diverse communities stand as a testament to the beauty of coexistence, where every voice matters and every heart beats with purpose.

Despite challenges, we rise together, guided by our values of compassion, respect, and understanding.

Hope is in the laughter of friends from different backgrounds, in the kindness of strangers, and in the dreams we nurture for a brighter tomorrow.

We are the bridge between cultures, the storytellers of our shared humanity, and the builders of a future filled with peace and promise.

Together, with faith and determination, we shape a world where hope always shines brighter than fear.

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

• Visit interfaithnetwork.org.au

timeline will remain unclear until contamination at the site is cleared by Melbourne Water. 5 years ago

10 November 2020

Housing plan for Maralinga Primary

A further step has been taken to turn the former Maralinga Primary School site into housing. The State Government, which owns the site, will seek to rezone the 9 Maralinga Avenue site as a Neighbourhood Residential Zone. According to the proposal, the Government will not rezone and sell its portion of the adjoining Chandler Reserve. Bryan Hunter, who has led the Maralinga Community Garden project in Chandler Reserve, hoped the sell-off didn’t mean “lots of townhouses over my back fence.” After the school closed in 2014, the Department declared the site surplus to its needs and the building were demolished in 2017.

Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society

The former Maralinga Primary School. (Rob Carew: 149271)

Demolition of the Maralinga Primary School site in 2017. (Gary Sissons: 169672)

Numan Seyit, a volunteer at Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network. (Supplied)

Errant cars wreak Noble Park havoc

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Cars have twice ploughed over unprotected footpaths into shopfronts in Noble Park in recent weeks.

Chelsea and Greater Dandenong SES crews were called to a beauty salon in Buckley Street about 7am on Thursday 6 November.

The large aluminium window frame took the brunt of the car’s impact, reported the Chelsea SES unit.

“So lots of broken glass and a very twisted frame, but no issues with any possibility of further collapse.”

Last month, a car struck down an apartment building’s brick fence and richocheted off the corner of an eggs outlet’s shopfront in Leonard Avenue on 8 October.

In both incidents, there were no reported injuries or major structural damage to buildings.

Last year, shop owners in Noble Park North called for bollards after several outlets were destroyed during a suspected ram-raid.

Greater Dandenong city futures executive director Sanjay Manivasagasivam said rigid bollards were not necessarily an ideal safety solution.

“Although they may seem a simple solution for incidents such as this, particularly rigid bollards can pose a hazard to road users, restrict disabled access along footpaths and require deep foundations that conflict with services in the ground.

“They only offer limited protection and will not stop larger vehicles or vehicles moving at higher speeds.”

Manivasagasivam said there weren’t any current funds allocated for streetscape improve-

Emergency services inspect a car that mounted a footpath, wrecked a brick wall and

eggs outlet in Leonard Avenue, Noble Park on 8 October. (Gary

ments under the Noble Park Revitalisation program.

“However, we have applied for a Strengthening Community Safety – Election Commitment Funding grant.

“If successfully secured, this will allow us to complete streetscape upgrades along the northern section of Buckley Street, between Douglas Street and Buckleys Lane.

“We continue to prioritise community safety and advocate for funding to make safety improvements in this location and others throughout the municipality.”

Dandenong business torched after threat

A security guard was threatened to leave at gunpoint before a car was torched at a panel shop in Dandenong.

Detectives from Greater Dandenong Crime Investigation Unit are investigating following a firearms incident and fire overnight in Dandenong.

Police were called about 2am when the complainant, a security guard, was threatened by two males on Mills Road Dandenong.

The guard approached a suspicious Toyota Corolla before one of the masked occupants showed him a firearm and threatened to shoot him if he didn’t leave.

The guard left and called police.

Shortly after, a second caller rang Triple Zero having observed the Toyota Corolla ram

the roller door of a Mills Road panel shop before setting the vehicle on fire.

Police arrived within eight minutes and a crime scene was established.

The crime scene remains locked down and an arson chemist will attend this morning.

The suspects have been described as African in appearance were seen leaving on foot and remain outstanding.

This is one of the third businesses torched in the same night, an automotive repair ship in Campbellfield and a shisha lounge was torched in Craigieburn.

Anyone who witnessed the fire, with CCTV or dashcam vision or further information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Father condemns stolen plaque

A father has condemned the theft of his son’s memorial plaque after it was stolen from a Doveton Skate Park on Frawley Road. a

“It is heartbreaking to see this today,” said Debnam’s post.

The plaque site marked a special meeting ground for special celebrations. It’s been there for 19 years, marking the site where Harley lost his life in 2006 after a car crash.

Debnam and Harley’s friends would meet on his birthday or anniversary and have a drink.

Despite an offer from a Good Samaritan to replace it, Debnam says he is hoping to work with the council who originally initiated the installation, to get it replaced.

End of term for Casey’s monitors

By Jensy Callimootoo

The City of Casey has bid farewell to the State Government Municipal Monitors, who were appointed a 12-month term to provide oversight on the conduct and performance of the council.

The two monitors, Cameron Boardman and Peter Stephenson, officially concluded their term on Thursday 6 November and the council will now continue its work without direct supervision from the Victorian Government.

Boardman and Stephenson were appointed to “provide independent advice and oversight to ensure the effective and transparent operation of the local government”.

Mayor Stefan Koomen has marked it as an “important milestone for the councillor group”.

“Over the past 12 months, councillors have worked hard to re-build trust, strengthen governance, and reconnect with our community,” he said.

“From day one, we’ve been committed to improving transparency in our decision-making,

“We have made it a priority to listen and respond to the needs of our residents,

“Throughout our first year, we have worked with the Monitors in place as part of Council’s transition back to elected representation…

“This marks the beginning of a new chapter for Casey,

“We are proud to serve our community. With the support of our residents, we are excited about the many great things we can achieve for the Casey community.”

The monitors’ appointment followed a challenging chapter for Casey, which had been under State Administration since 2020 after the dismissal of councillors amid a corruption investigation linked to developer donations.

Harley Debnam’s stolen plaque. (Supplied)

Suspects were seen leaving on foot and remain outstanding. (Gary Sissons: 515268_24)

Police were called at 2am by a security guard who was threatened to leave at gunpoint. (515268)

A suspicious fire at a Dandenong Panel Beaters. (515268)

The crime scene remains locked down and an arson chemist will attend this morning. (515268)

struck an

Sissons: 509240)

SES volunteers at the mangled hair-salon shopfront in Buckley Street on 6 November. (Chelsea SES)

Show a hit in Dandenong

Crowds enjoyed one of the area’s most enduring festivals, the 150-plus year annual Dandenong Show last weekend.

Despite inclement weather, there was much fun to be had at Greaves Reserve - with rides, showbags, food trucks as well as stunning exhibits of animals and arts, crafts and cookery from

across the state.

Among the highlights were horse show-jumping, live entertainment, tractor pulls, fireworks and dogs off the high jump and catching flying discs.

Photographer STEWART CHAMBERS captured the thrills.

Darci and Jamie from Moralla Corriedale Stud. (Stewart Chambers: 514743)

Michelle Paynter with Galloway open champion Waterford Park Heatwave from Tanjil South. (Stewart Chambers: 514743)

Endeavour Hills Men’s Shed members Tony, Andrew, Carmello, Howard and Jean-Marc. (Stewart Chambers: 514743)

Dandenong Fancy Pigeon Society president James with a Fantail. (Stewart Chambers: 514743)

Rebecca with her kids Grace and Koban from Clyde North. (Stewart Chambers: 514743)

Linda Jane and Angela Long (RoadSafe South East). (Stewart Chambers: 514743)

Charmaine, Lyn, Julia and Mary at the arts and crafts area. (Stewart Chambers: 514743)

Steph Robinson with champion English Leicester ewe from Kiah Kilibinbin Stud in Bainsdale. (Stewart Chambers: 514743)

Phoebe, 4, from Frankston, with some toys she won at Sideshow Alley. (Stewart Chambers: 514743)

Temperance and Joel enjoying the Dodge-em cars. (Stewart Chambers: 514743)

An immaculately-prepared showhorse on the Greaves Reserve arena. (Stewart Chambers: 514743)

‘Nordic Wonders’ voyage

By Lee McCarthy

DISCOVER nature and culture with Viking’s brand new eight day ‘Nordic Wonders’ voyage from Bergen to Oslo or vice versa.

Sail the dramatic Norwegian fjords and explore the serene shores of Denmark to discover a region shaped by the sea.

In Norway, deep inlets and towering cliffs reveal a landscape both powerful and peaceful.

Once guests have arrived in Bergen it’s time to settle into one of the wide varieties of stunning staterooms on offer from Veranda Staterooms to the abundance of extra perks and amenities in the spacious Explorer Suites.

There is no finer way to travel, and whichever stateroom travellers choose, it will be beautifully designed in the understated elegance for which Viking is known.

Bergen is home to the Hanseatic League’s only kontor (trading enclave) still in existence. Bryggen wharf, a row of timbered Hanseatic warehouses along a quaint quay, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Narrow wooden walkways are flanked by parallel rows of small, vibrantly painted buildings overlooking the picturesque Vågen Harbor.

This is perhaps the most charming district of Bergen and a delight to explore, from its tightknit community of workshops where artisans sell their wares to its cafes where freshly prepared smørbrød, or open-faced sandwiches, are on the menu.

During the cruise guests can enjoy tours including the Secrets of Cider guided tour of the farmlands of Norway and witness magnificent fjord landscapes, fruit orchards, family-owned traditional farms and the famous Hardangerfjord.

The Hardanger Juice and Cider Factory, located on a fruit farm where first-rate juice, cider and apple brandy are made offers a guided tour of the farm to learn about its production methods, with a chance to sample Norway’s freshest nectar with stunning views of the orchard.

For those seeking more activity, perhaps a kayaking adventure through stunning scenery with a chance to get closer to wildlife may appeal.

Take in the scenery from the water, on board a two-person kayak on a tour of the Eidfjord considered one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway.

An experienced guide will run through a full safety briefing, before those keen to participate can climb inside the kayak and paddle through the fjord.

Paddlers will be captivated with the amazing wildlife and striking sights that surround the kayak and take the chance to learn about the history and nature of the fjord during several stops along the way.

Each activity available for guests, includes information such as the duration of the tour, the fitness level required and guides are on hand to help ensure each sightseeing tour is enjoyed to its fullest and safest.

sion to Ravnedalen Park along with a panoramic coast drive to coastal villages and a leisurely stroll through the gardens is recommended. The tour passes through Kristiansand’s old town, Posebyen where guests marvel at its colourful wooden houses.

In Denmark, minimalist design and a strong sense of well-being reflect a culture grounded in simplicity and slow living as embodied in the concept of hygge.

A visit to Clausholm Castle, the well-preserved Baroque-style manor house is one history buffs will love. The castle is one of the earliest and most complete examples of baroque buildings in Denmark. Surrounded by bucolic park and lush gardens the stately Clausholm embodies the ide-

metry.

Passengers can choose to take the included tour of the small, picturesque fishing village of Skagen, Denmark’s northernmost town. Its origins can be traced back to the thirteenth century, and it is a chance to discover its treasures, journeying along the waterfront and past traditional fishing boats as your guide shares stories of Skagen’s maritime heritage. At Kystmuseet, the Museum of Local History, uncover more of the village’s past and explore its exhibits

Together, these Nordic neighbours offer a journey rich in natural beauty and cultural depth. Viking’s inclusive value includes everything you need, such as a guided excursion in every port, all onboard meals including alternative din-

unlimited Wi-Fi, 24-hour specialty tea, coffee, and bottled water, access to the state-of-the-art Nordic spa, self-service laundry, and all tipping. With no kids, no casinos, fewer than 1,000 guests, and all veranda staterooms, Viking’s award-winning ships take you as close as possible to each destination.

The Nordic Wonders cruise is priced from $8,695 per person in a Veranda Stateroom and for those who book before 1 December 2025, your companion flies free up to the value of AU$2,500 per couple.

Don’t miss the chance to tour the Nordic Wonders is style with Viking. Contact today on 138 747 or find out more at www.viking.com.

ing venues, wine and beer with lunch and dinner,

The magnificent vista on Kjeasen Mountain Farm Vista in Eidfjord is part of the Viking Nordic Wonders itinerary.

WIN AN 8-DAY FRANCE RIVER VOYAGE

plus a Highclere Castle extension

Viking is offering you the chance to win an 8-day Paris & the Heart of Normandy river voyage plus a 3-night pre-cruise extension for two people, departing 2 November 2026, valued at over $20,000.

Begin your journey with three nights in the historic city of Oxford where you will enjoy exclusive access to Highclere Castle, the filming location of Downton Abbey, and a visit Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then board the Eurostar to Paris to embark on your elegant Viking Longship. Enjoy a guided excursion in every port, the Gothic beauty of Rouen, the gardens of Monet’s Giverny, and the poignant history of Normandy Beaches.

Rail Journey

1 night rail journey on board Spirit of Queensland from Brisbane to Cairns in a lie-flat railbed with all meals

In-seat wine and dine service and entertainment

Hotel Stays

1 night four-star hotel stay in Brisbane at The Point Brisbane Hotel

5 night five-star hotel stay in Cairns at the Crystalbrook Bailey

All hotel stays include breakfast

Escorted Tours

Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway tour including^: Kuranda Village

Rainforestation Nature Park

Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience

Tropical Fruit Orchard

Dreamtime Walk

Koala and Wildlife Park

Amphibious Army Duck tour of the rainforest

‘Reef Magic’ Great Barrier Reef cruise, including:

Air-conditioned catamaran transfers

4 hours of reef time

Marine life touch tank

Underwater observatory

Fish feeding presentations

All Flights & Taxes

Rescue underway

By Jensy Callimootoo

The Lost Dog’s Home has released a new update on the Staffy cross puppy, Milly, who remains the last of her litter to be alive, after her two brothers were controversially euthanised for behavioural reasons.

The statement posted on 31 October said Milly is now moving to a private home into a “period of behavioural rehabilitation foster care with an experienced rescue partner.”

According to the statement, the rescue partner has “extensive experience supporting animals with complex behavioural needs.”

“They have skilled foster carers, resources, and a strong commitment to structured rehabilitation programs.”

During this period, the rescue partner will follow a behaviour plan arranged by the LDH’s expert veterinary behaviour specialist who has been “guiding Milly’s care” throughout this time.

In the statement, the shelter said that Milly has shown positive signs but that she also “struggles with serious behavioral challenges”.

Indicating signs of “poor emotional regulation, resulting in issues with arousal, and aggression to manage threats, fear and frustration”.

“Milly is one of three puppies who exhibited varying levels of aggression and anti-social behaviour,” a LDH spokesperson told Star News.

“We cannot stress enough how unusual and rare it is to see this type of behaviour in a litter of puppies,”

“While they may have appeared typical on the surface to untrained observers, their underlying abnormal responses to arousal and stress posed

a significant risk of escalating into aggression, endangering other animals, children, and the public,”

“However, Milly has consistently demonstrated more pro-social tendencies compared to her siblings,”

“Following a veterinary behavioural specialist’s review and recommendation, she has been assessed as suitable for structured rehabilitation, to continue on her medication protocol with regular check-ins with a specialist behavioural team”.

The statement says that the rescue partner is equipped with the skills and experience necessary to provide “dedicated intensive behavioral rehabilitation under expert guidance.”

And that they are aware of Milly’s behavioural needs and backgrounds.

For the time being, in line with the Code of Practice for the Management of Dogs and Cats in Shelters and Pounds and due to Milly’s behavioural challenges, the shelter cannot legally rehome Milly or transfer ownership.

The October 31 statement also said that the shelter does not have an exact estimate of how long the process might take.

“This is not a quick process; we will not have an answer on her outcome for weeks, possibly months, as her progress will depend entirely on ongoing behavioural assessments,” said the statement.

Animal Justice MP, Georgie Purcell who criticised the decision by the LDH to euthanise Milly’s brother Murphy back in October, has since said she is hopeful for Milly after the new update.

“We only wish Murphy, his littermate and his mother were afforded the same chance that they

so deserved,” Purcell said on an online post.

“If you have had Milly on your mind like us, you can breathe a sigh of relief tonight.”

It was just a few weeks ago when Purcell took the matter to the Upper House, calling for greater transparency, oversight and regulations for all shelters and pounds regarding euthanisation on the basis of behavioral reasons.

Citing Milly and Murphy’s case, she moved to appoint “an independent oversight mechanism to approve euthanasia for behavioural reasons by open-intake shelters”.

As well as the mandating of “pounds and shelters to offer all animals set to be euthanised for behavioural reasons to authorised pet rehoming organisations, except in instances where an animal has been legally declared dangerous,”

It also called for “open-intake shelters to change to quarterly reporting on animal fate data…ensuring animal data is more transparent and outlines what steps were taken when an animal is euthanised for behavioural reasons.”

The LDH has told Star News that it will welcome “any well thought out and achievable proposals that will improve animal welfare outcomes”.

“We operate under strict laws and codes with respect to our animal welfare activities,”

“Some of these proposals will require legislative change informed by extensive sector wide consultation,”

“The Lost Dogs’ Home currently works with forty rescue organisations across Victoria to achieve our pet rehoming and animal welfare objectives and report our figures to Agriculture Victoria quarterly.”

Mortgage stress hits Casey suburbs

By Jensy Callimootoo

New data from Digital Finance Analytics (DFA) has revealed that almost 52.4 percent of Victorians are struggling financially as they try to meet their mortgage obligations.

In the Casey region, Berwick and Narre Warren topped the list revealing that thousands of households are facing significant mortgage stress.

The DFA report highlighted that 100 per cent of 18,324 Berwick households are struggling with their mortgages; while, in Narre Warren, 94.4 per cent of 19,385 households are facing mortgage stress.

DFA data analyst Martin North says this is due to a combination of new trends in the housing market.

Including a significant increase in new purchases from first time buyers as well as “high loan to value loans” from home and land packages.

“(Mortgage) stress shows households have cash flow pressure, so they cut back on spending, and hunker down, leading to lower economic activity,” North told Real Estate.

“If this continues some people may eventually default on their mortgage, but this process takes a long time, and banks try to ‘extend and

pretend’ by extending loan terms or offering interest only,

Vice president of the Casey Residents and Ratepayers Association, Anthony Tassone, has echoed the concerns in light of the DFA report.

“Right now, many families across Casey are doing it tough - really tough - with households cutting back on essentials just to keep up with their mortgage,” said Tassone.

“Mortgage stress isn’t just a statistic; it’s sadly becoming part of everyday life for too many local families.”

The City of Casey Mayor, Stefan Koomen says the council recognises that many in “the community are experiencing housing and mortgage stress” but that the council is “committed to supporting residents through these difficult times”.

“Mortgage stress is complex and is usually underpinned by a multitude of challenging issues,” said the Mayor.

Earlier this year the CRRA called for a rate freeze in the City of Casey’s 2025/26 Budget.

“[CRRA] noted that 38 per cent of households were already experiencing rent or mortgage stress and that 40 per cent had faced food insecurity,” said Tassone.

“Unfortunately, the Council still chose to

lift rates by 3 per cent.

“In times like these, even a small increase hits hard and can push some households closer to the edge.”

Rather, the council has encouraged those struggling with their rate payments to reach out for flexible instalment plans.

“We understand that paying rates can be challenging for some households, and we’re here to help,” said Mayor Koomen.

”Council offers flexible payment options and encourages anyone facing financial hardship to reach out early so we can work together to avoid rate debt and interest charges.”

As people struggle to keep up with growing costs, North warns that this may encourage the rise in crime and family violence.

“More people (are) working more jobs, more social pressure, and eventually higher crime and family violence,” said North.

Over the last quarter, Casey has already seen a 23.4 per cent rise in crime from last year, according to the Crime Statistics Agency (CSA).

Likewise, the same CSA report revealed that family violence incidents in Casey have increased by 13.6 per cent from the previous year.

Spooky in Springvale

Halloween haunted Springvale Community Hub in an inaugural ‘spooktacular’ for young people on Friday 31 October.

The City of Greater Dandenong Youth and Family Services hosted the Halloween Spooktacular, designed for and by young people aged 12–25 years,

The inclusive event featured live youth performances, food stalls, free activities, a costume competition, and a spooky airbrush tattoo stall.

The event was with young people from the Greater Dandenong Amplify Youth Committee (formerly known as FReeZA).

Amplify is a Victorian Government initiative that supports young Victorians to get involved in their community by planning and running drug, smoke and alcohol-free music and cultural events for other young people.

Young people dressed up for Halloween Spooktacular in Springvale on 31 October. (City of Greater Dandenong)

Young people dressed up for Halloween

Italian club marks 35 years

The Italian Elderly Citizens Club Noble Park has recently cut cake to mark 35 years. Members get together for cards, bingo and a cupper at Noble Park Community Centre on

Wednesdays and Fridays 11.30am-3.30pm. New president Lee says she “put her hand up” to keep the club running – after the sudden departure of its previous management.

Her 92-year-old mother is a founding member. chat.”

Italian Elderly Citizens Club Noble Park members cut the cake to mark 35 years in October. (Stewart Chambers: 508841)

Dealing the cards. (Stewart Chambers: 508841)

New members Mabel, Zuki and Vilma. (Stewart Chambers: 508841)

Committee members Jutta, Lee and Lizzi. (Stewart Chambers: 508841)

WHAT’S ON

Remembrance Day

Remembrance Day 2025 Services in Dandenong and Noble Park.

• Tuesday 11 November, services start 11am at Pillars of Freedom, Clow Street/Palm Plaza, Dandenong and at Noble Park memorial, cnr Mons Parade and Heatherton Road, Noble Park. Friendly Carers Group

A relaxed morning tea where carers can connect, share stories, and enjoy supportive company. No registrations needed, just drop in.

• Second Wednesday of each month (next 12 November) 11am-1pm at Keysborough Community Hub, 10 Villiers Road, Keysborough.

Drum architectural talk

Explore the story behind The Drum’s bold redesign as architect Virginia Ross will discuss design priorities, heritage considerations and challenges and reveals how heritage and modernity collide. Afternoon tea provided.

• Thursday 13 November, 1.30pm at Drum Theatre, cnr Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong; free event. Registrations essential at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net. au/#!/event-detail/ev_48c04088d579406ea

0226e660c48e9d3

Pollinator Night

Learn about and take a close-up look at our pollinators, big and small. Includes a Myuna Farm train ride to the grey-headed flying fox wetland colony, planting a seed and making an insect hotel. Optional dress code – dress up as a pollinator such as a bee, bird, butterfly, bat, possum and lorikeet.

• Thursday 13 November 4.30pm-6.30pm at Myuna Farm, Kidds Road Doveton; free event. Register: trybooking.com/DGQCU

Cultural Sketch

Artist/s talk about their lived experiences as artists, as participants sketch and draw the presenters, their favourite objects, the music, or respond creatively to the stories being shared. No experience needed. Ages 18+, alcohol and refreshments served.

• Thursday 13 November, 6pm-8pm at The Castle, 61 Princes Highway, Dandenong; free event. Registrations required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ ev_28df2be468d6459395b77cb3d1791bfc

Reuse and Recycle Drop Off Day

The event gives you the opportunity to get rid of any larger unwanted household goods suitable for donating or electronic and household goods suitable for recycling. To avoid missing out, it is highly recommended for resident to attend as early as possible.

• Saturday 15 November 8am-1pm at Greaves Reserve, 20 Bennet Street, Dandenong. Free event. Details: 8571 1000 or greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/recycle-day

Street Feast

Sizzling grills and freshly baked delights, from Italian paninis and fried pasta to souvlaki, Polish dumplings, loaded pitas, loukoumades, gelato, and more. Live DJ.

• Saturday 15 November, 10am-3pm at Dandenong Market (Southern Carpark), cnrClow and Cleeland streets, Dandenong; free entry.

Alex Wilkie Reserve open day

Take a ranger-guided or self-guided tour along the Nature Trail following the interpretive signage that meanders through stunning bushland.

• Sunday 16 November, 10am-5pm at Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve, Mackay Street, Springvale South; free event.

Unscripted Voices Against Racism

Interactive event with Melbourne Playback Theatre, who will bring real stories of racism to life through powerful, improvised performance, followed by open forum. Hosted by Wellsprings for Women with the City of Greater Dandenong.

• Thursday 20 November 2.30pm – 5pm at The Castle, 61 Princes Highway, Dandenong. Bookings: events.humanitix.com/unscripted-voices-against-racism/tickets

Cornerstone Christmas Fete

A festive community event that supports Cornerstone Contact Centre charity. Kids activities, market stalls, artisan Christmas gifts, sausage sizzle, great food and coffee, crafts, prizes.

• Saturday 22 November, 9am-1pm at Cornerstone Contact Centre, Dandenong Baptist Church Hall and Car Park, 25 James Street, Dandenong; free entry.

Play It Forward

Activations, music, free sausage sizzle in partnership with Reclink Australia. Donate your pre-loved sports equipment, collect second-hand sports equipment and learn about the range of services available to support those that may be experienc-

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ing disadvantage and would like to participate in sport. All welcome.

• Saturday 22 November, 10am-2pm at Ross Reserve, 9 Memorial Drive, Noble Park; free entry. Hidden Gem Festival and Market Vibrant, new community-driven event set to transform Hemmings Street into a lively cultural hub. Live music performances, a handpicked record fair, a locally curated beer garden and a diverse crafts market. Free, all ages and family friendly event.

• Saturday and Sunday 22-23 November 10am7pm at 71 Hemmings Street, Dandenong car park.

Walk Against Family Violence

Walk from Dandenong Market to Harmony Square.

Guest speaker is Elvis Martin, a multi-award-winning international speaker, survivor advocate, and passionate campaigner for social justice.

• Tuesday 25 November 2025 10.30am for 11am walk at The Terrace steps at Dandenong Market, Cleeland Street, Dandenong; free event. Neighbourhood Watch forum

Guest speaker: Nicoll Peschek from Neighbourhood Watch Victoria. Local police will also be there to talk to. Light refreshments after the meeting.

• Wednesday 26 November 7pm at Paddy O’Donoghue Centre in Buckley Street, Noble Park.

Coffee with a Cop

Come along for a relaxed and friendly chat with your local Victoria Police officers over a cup of coffee. No speeches, no agenda, just conversation.

• Thursday 27 November, 11am-12pm at Parkmore Shopping centre; free event.

Bunjil Place Christmas Market

Up to 60 stalls with delightful stocking fillers and unique Christmas gifts. Live music, roving entertainment, food trucks, licensed bar and the lighting of the Bunjil Place Christmas tree at 8pm.

• Saturday 29 November 3pm–9pm at Bunjil Place Plaza; free entry. Stall items and food at vendor prices.

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 until 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.

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.

O’Brien puts pen to paper at Redbacks

By Blair Burns

After 12 months away from the game, highly regarded coach Steve O’Brien will begin a new era at Hampton Park, signing on as the director of coaching.

O’Brien has more than five years of VFL experience and a brilliant local CV which included stints at Rowville, Devon Meadows, St Kilda City and Highett.

Most recently he coached at Cranbourne for seven years, guiding the Eagles to premiership glory in 2022.

The new director of coaching said he was happy to sign on at the Redbacks and couldn’t wait to get stuck into working alongside senior playing coach Luke Bull.

“It’s a new challenge for me in my footy journey, I’m looking forward to getting back involved in footy again,” O’Brien said.

“What excites me is working with and developing young coaches, that is where I see my football now at this stage of my career.

“With a lot of years of experience, hopefully I can pass that on to them and help them be the best coaches they can be.”

O’Brien actually coached a young Bull at Casey VFL and said that is one of the connections which helped him land at Robert Booth Reserve.

With many clubs chasing his services and offering him coaching roles since his departure from Cranbourne in 2024, there were plenty of things for O’Brien to think about.

These included whether he wanted to get back involved in footy at all, and if so, in what capacity.

“We caught up, discussed a few things, and I suppose for me it was about deciding whether I wanted to get back into football,” he said.

“I realised I didn’t have the drive (to coach)

anymore, I’ve probably burned that candle, but I still wanted to be involved in footy.

“The role that the club offered was exactly what I was after, and it all panned out from there. We think it should be a good combination, alongside all of the assistant coaches.”

O’Brien hoped to help Hampton Park continue its upwards trajectory as the club ventures into Southern Division 1.

“The club is in a really good spot and that is because they have done a heap of work both on and off-field, it wasn’t that long ago that they were down in Div 3,” he said.

“One of the things that we all agreed upon was we don’t want to go to Div 1 and make up the numbers, we want to have a real impact.

“We think that with some natural improvement and a couple of recruits, we can go up there and be competitive from day dot.”

Brand new pavilion for Strathaird Reserve

A new modern and inclusive pavilion has been unveiled in Narre Warren South.

On Thursday 6 November, City of Casey Mayor Stefan Koomen and Casuarina Ward Councillor Kim Ross were joined by Member for Narre Warren South, Gary Maas MP to officially open the new pavilion at Strathaird Reserve.

Home to Narre South Cricket Club, Narre South Saints Football Netball Club and Narre South Saints Junior Football Netball Club, the existing pavilion was extended and upgraded to include female-friendly and accessible amenities, a new servery and a covered spectator area.

There is also a dedicated social room space, allowing clubs to hold functions, team dinners and fundraisers.

“The new pavilion will be a place to gather, celebrate and build community through sport,” Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen said.

“Council is proud to support projects like this one that not only improve facilities but also strengthen community connections and encourage more people to get active, get involved and feel part of something bigger.

“Thanks to all of the clubs for their patience throughout the construction period and congrat-

ulations to everyone involved in the project.”

The $1,585,613 project was delivered in partnership with

Star locals

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Four Dandenong Stingrays have been included in the 2026 AFL/W Academies.

The Stingrays are the equal most-representedclubintheAFLWAcademy,withthe following girls included: Alice Cunnington, Ruby Geurts and Sophie White.

All three girls were part of the U18s Vic Country squad in 2025.

Cunnington splits her time between football and netball and proved herself as a smooth-moving, strong-marking, athletic midfielder-forward across 14 Coates League games, kicking 25 goals.

Geurts is an athletic utility with x-factor while White showed excellent ruck craft through 15 Coates League and two Vic Country games and has plenty of upside.

Like the three girls, Szerszyn was part of the Vic Country squad in 2025 and impressed with his athleticism and ability to lockdown, while he played 13 games for the Stingrays off halfback.

For the first time since 2018, the AFL Academy program will feature an overseas trip, with both the boys and girls programs to spend stints in New Zealand during December.

It is the first time the AFLW Academy will have travelled overseas.

The holistic Academy program combines football performance and personal growth in a high-performance environment by providing unique opportunities and learnings that differ from other football programs they are involved in.

Content is delivered across multiple football camps, with the 2026 program to commence with a high-performance camp at the New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport (NZCIS) in December.

The Wellington-based facility is the official training base of New Zealand Rugby, including the All Blacks and Super Rugby club the Hurricanes, along with A-League outfit the Wellington Phoenix.

It has also been visited by a host of international sporting organisations, including Wrexham FC, the Barca Academy and Melbourne’s AFLW team, who visited the facility during their 2025 pre-season campaign.

The Marsh AFL National Academy will also come together for football camps in Melbourne during the 2026 season.

Those camps will feature talent showcase matches where the National Academy squads will represent their country when they compete as the Australia U18 team.

In addition to the Academy camps, players will also take part in AFL and AFLW club experiences and will have the opportunity to train with an AFL and AFLW club.

AFL National Academy Manager Tarkyn Lockyer congratulated the AFL Academy squad members.

“One of the aims of the National Academy is to provide new experiences to our up-and-coming stars outside of what is already delivered at their state talent program to best prepare players for the next step in their football journey,” Lockyer said.

“We are thrilled to be able to include a camp at the New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport as part of our 2026 program.

“Thecampwillprovideauniqueexperience for our participants and will give them the opportunity to challenge themselves at an internationally acclaimed facility.”

Cr Kim Ross; Gary Maas MP; President of the Narre South Cricket Club, Nathan Tracy; President of the Narre South Saints Junior Football Netball Club, Colleen Brennan; Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen; and Secretary of the Narre South Saints Football Netball Club, Tony Seals. (Supplied)

Alice Cunnington was one of four Stingrays included in the AFL/W Academies. (Gary Sissons: 489621)

Hampton Park playing coach Luke Bull, left, welcomes Steve O’Brien to the Redbacks. (Supplied)

Let’s Talk Sport

WITH DAVE NAGEL, JONTY RALPHSMITH, JUSTIN SCHWARZE AND BLAIR BURNS

Cricket care and wellbeing

JONTY: It’s been a sombre couple of weeks in the cricketing world after what happened at the Ferntree Gully Cricket Club nets in circumstances that everyone in the cricketing fraternity can relate to. I think the great familiarity of the circumstances that caused Ben Austin to die playing the game he loved shook the cricket fraternity. Unfortunately, rain saw cricket abandoned on the weekend and delayed a ‘tribute round’ to Ben and his family. Justin, I’ll start with you, what were your emotions and reactions when the news originally surfaced about Ben?

JUSTIN: There’s no word other than tragic. A young man loses his life doing something he loves. It’s scarily familiar, especially in Australian perspective after Phillip Hughes’ death a decade ago. Firstly, thoughts to everyone that was involved. There’s a family, there’s a cricket club, there’s also someone at the other end who has thrown that cricket ball. There’s so much entangled in this and the support has been immense but I think we need to wrap our arms around the surrounding people involved in this tragedy. It’s an emotional time for the sport and unfortunately, it’s an eye-opener again.

JONTY: It’s had a ripple effect in the community. I was out with a couple of mates last Sunday who had our cricket club caps on and people came and spoke to us about cricket safety so it has certainly opened a conversation. But you mentioned the Phillip Hughes heartbreak. As tragic as it was and not to minimise what happened, community cricketers felt removed from it to a degree because of the extra speed and difficulty of cricket at that level. By this happening at a participatory level, it means those conversations now can’t be ignored. It hits much closer to home.

BLAIR: It was terrible. It makes me feel sick sitting here thinking about it. It was a terrible tragedy and everyone involved need thoughts and best wishes extended. I think it’s something that affects everyone who plays cricket. Lots of people play local cricket and the fact it has happened at that level impacts people in a different way. We take the field every week, you go to training and it’s not even a consideration or possibility so when something like that does happen to someone so young, it’s obviously a terrible time but hopefully they can get through it by uniting together.

JONTY: That’s a good segue to what I wanted to bring up next: unity. One thing that was really apparent with Ben Austin was how involved in his cricket and footy clubs he was. He was that prototypical junior that lived for Saturday and loved his sport. The role of local sporting clubs as a whole is something that comes into conversation at a time like this as well. There are clubs coming together to support each other but Ben seemed to be one who used the platform and reach of local cricket to grow and meet people within and outside of cricket

JUSTIN: Sports clubs goes a lot deeper than the players. Community sport is a unifier that brings everyone together and that’s talking about umpires, supporters, sponsors. These are local towns that get around all of these things. There is so much that goes into sport. It’s an escape for some people from work but it’s also a hub for connectedness. Community sport is one of the most important things that we have and for a guy like Ben, who is a sport fanatic, to have touched so many lives shows there is so many different ways impact sport. It’s good to see all the rallying around thisclubs that aren’t even local to Ben are supporting the people around Ben which shows community sport is bigger than the game.

JONTY: IPL clubs and the Barmy Army were paying tribute to him. We have these concocted or built-up rivalries that disappear when something like this happens.

BLAIR: Local sport plays a major role for everyone. I grew up in Hamilton in south west Victoria and you see the impact of local footy or cricket clubs on people’s belonging. It gives people another home. The world revolves around local sport in a large capacity. You only get past something this tragic when everyone bands together. The outpouring of support from all levels has no doubt been overwhelming in a positive way. The

reach this has had and amount of people impacted shows how big the sport community is.

JONTY: The mental wellbeing side of sport is something that can be overlooked. The significant role it plays for kids to learn lessons of life in a relatively low stakes environment surrounded by, generally, good people can’t be understated and Ben was one of so many who would have felt that.

JUSTIN: Question without notice - we walked into the office this morning and a colleague said that it was a sad time for the cricket world but from an outsider’s perspective who doesn’t play cricket - for two people who play the sport, what is it like being participants of the sport and dealing with something like this.

JONTY: It’s interesting you ask that because on Sunday I had a net session with three or four people and every time we go down, we get the ‘whanger’ out. Now we ask ‘do we do that now’? Our club has just introduced a ban on sidearm mechanisms for the junior cricket club in light of the incident. What this event has noticeably done is start a conversation about cricket safety.

BLAIR: These sort of things I get shaken by. I remember being young when Phil Hughes passed away. I was very young and only just starting to play cricket but it did affect me for quite a while and it affects everyone differently. Last week I had some mates going for a net session on Friday and I decided not to go. And it wasn’t necessarily a worry about what could happen but it felt almost disrespectful because Ben had no decision and his life was cut short. Even further on that, it does start the safety discussion. In the days following, I was online looking for stem guards I could get for my helmet and I asked my brother if I could use his helmet because he does have that guard. Before this, we should have this already, but it does magnify those concerns about equipment and safety.

JONTY: What I think a lot of non-cricketers don’t realise is that they are not mandated at a community level; only recommended. It’s a piece of equipment that can be bought separately; it doesn’t come with all helmets. If you have to go out of your way to buy it, you might not be inclined to do so because you think ‘it’s not going to happen to me at a local level’. If someone asked me what percentage of people wear the stem guard, I would say 10 per cent.

BLAIR: I’d probably agree and probably moreso the firsts and seconds

JUSTIN: And this happened at training; it wasn’t even in a game. That’s another conversation that is started. If you’re batting, you should be wearing the full equipment at all times.

BLAIR: It should be made easier to get these neck guards. I don’t know the bridges to get that done but you would think that then much more people would be wearing them. Like Jonty said, with the climate as it is at the moment when you’re buying one, if you’re not playing professional cricket, it’s probably not one of your main thoughts. The other thing is it shines a light on how dangerous the sidearms can be. I think from my own perspective, there has been times where people who haven’t used it much pick it up and you don’t think of it as a concern but you probably have to be introducing training within clubs about how to use them safely.

JONTY: Absolutely because a lot of people would be able to relate that the inexperienced user is very likely to give you a full toss. I don’t know why that is, but when it comes out, it tends to be early if you’ve had limited practice with them. The other thing is cricket net safety as a whole is probably brought into attention. We have something on our nets about net safety and etiquette. A lot of it is obvious but things like making sure you have your eyes on the ball at all times because that can be a hazard. There is also plenty of room at the back of a lot of nets for people to have a conver-

sation, maybe that sort of thing should be done from the safety of the other side of the nets now.

BLAIR: For me, it feels unfair that nothing has happened to me in the nets. All clubs should probably understand the dangers of the net. People are often just chatting to each other about the week and someone has smashed one back and has everyone ducking for cover.

JONTY: Absolutely. I think we should touch on some of the tributes as well. Tooradin was one of the very first clubs not directly involved with Ben to post a tribute and obviously so many have followed. And our heart goes out to a couple of local clubs we cover with which he has had involvement with. Lyndale Cricket Club where he won a junior premiership a couple of years ago, and the Noble Park Football Club, where Ben’s Dad Jace is a former reserves coach. But I’m pretty certain that every club in the Casey Cardinia, Dandenong District and Warragul District wore black arm bands, had a minute silence, or put their bats out on Saturday, and in most cases, multiple of the above.

JUSTIN: Yes, the cricket community is definitely a special one in the sense that the support has been immense. To see community group posts with people having their bats out and photos of helmets and bats out at the Warragul District games shows that this hits everyone hard. So many people love the sport at a community level and are there with their mates at the end of the day. It’s touching to see the community come together on a day where it would have been completely understandable if you didn’t want to play or be involved in the sport.

BLAIR: I just wanted to add; my thoughts go out to the Mulgrave Cricket Club as well in the Eastern Cricket Association where I play. He was involved in so many clubs and that speaks to the person he was and how many people he touched with his life. It’s really good to see the outpouring of support and people rallying around.

Ben Austin will be remembered as a cricketer who played the game in the correct spirit. (Stewart Chambers: 514260)