Rumaisa was clothed in pride as she joined more than 20 young pre-schoolers who have graduated from a two-year, home-based early learning program in Dandenong. She received her certificate and academic gown at a Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY) ceremony at Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre on Friday 21 November.
More on the story, turn to page 14
A small crowd of protestors has raised noise in Dandenong on behalf of nearly 3000 ‘forgotten’ asylum seekers in Victoria.
For two days, Bridging Visa E holders raised placards outside federal MP Julian Hill’s office to highlight the unfairness of their plights.
They have appled in vain for permanent protection, in some cases waiting up to 12 years.
In contrast, a majority of more than 20,000 others in Australia have been granted in recent years.
Among the protestors was Hussain Kamali, a restaurant and supermarket owner paying GST and employing 16 staff.
But because he isn’t recognised as a citizen, he was denied government support during Covid.
“People from our cohort who had small businesses suffered a lot without support and were forced to close their business.
“This is not fair and that is very painful.
“This country is truly a country to be loved but unfortunately the government doesn’t see us, and it’s this turning blind eye that is painful.”
Sara Mashalian is a dental assistant who is barred from higher education in Australia.
“Even yesterday I requested the immigration department to allow me to study and attain a certificate.
“They told me go to another country if you want to study.”
After fleeing Iran and enduring detention at Manus Island and Nauru, she and her mother Roghieh’s mental health have deteriorated while living in limbo in Australia for 12 years.
In the meantime, Sara’s husband Ali and the rest of her extended family have Australian citizenship.
“Every night she has a nightmare that someone pushes her from a high building,” Ali says.
A spokesperson for Hill, who is Assistant Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs, said: “Where a genuine refugee is eligible for permanent residency, many of the long-term outstanding cases involve complex identity or character issues.
“However, every case is different, and Ministers cannot comment on individual cases for privacy and legal reasons.”
For the full story, turn to page 14
By Sahar Foladi
Wellsprings for Women staged a unique performance, ‘Unscripted Voices Against Racism,’ by Melbourne Playback Theatre group.
Almost 150 people attended the event on Thursday 20 November at the Castle, to not just watch the performance play out in real time but also share their stories, experiences, express their emotions in a safe and supported environment.
Almost everyone in the audience were left teary, emotionally moved, empowered and connected - mixed with a few laughs during the performances.
Wellsprings for Women, as part of the South East Anti-Racism Network, has tackled topics such as racism and Islamophobia.
CEO, Dalal Smiley says this time around they sought to do something different to a seminar.
“I thought this would be something that engages the audience. With these kinds of topics, it’s more powerful to see them being performed than just hearing the stories.
“It’s kind of an eye opener, raising awareness on the situations and also it gives tips and strategies that people can utilise in everyday life to make a difference.
“Usually, the stories we’ve heard is about Dandenong residents experiencing racism outside of Dandenong as a setting, which is a telling thing in itself.”
The performance was divided in two parts. First was a form of playback theatre where the facilitator engages with the audience by asking some questions. Then based off the shared stories, a group of five performers presented them on stage.
The second half was a forum theatre where members from the audience share their experience of racism and see the entire story play out in front of the audience.
Ahlam, a Palestinian who fled Israel with her husband and two children a decade ago, was chosen from the audience for the forum theatre.
As she saw her story play out in front of everyone, she was moved to tears.
“We could see things were getting really bad - and we didn’t know how bad and I couldn’t raise our family - so we started packing our bags.
“We miss our family and the support but I see our future here not there.
“They live their life, go to work, study but they live in fear. They can’t speak up or say anything against the country.”
Her family arrived through skilled visa migration but unfortunately for Ahlam and her husband, their entire family still reside inside Israel itself, not in the West Bank or Gaza where majority of Palestinians are located.
She says Palestinians face heightened racism in Israel, being not allowed to speak their own
language and facing slogans like, “Death to Arabs”.
So, it was complete shock to her in Australia where she was praised for speaking Arabic to her children - a stark contrast between two worlds.
“When I spoke my own language with my kids or colleagues, people would stare at us and say that’s very rude (in Israel).
“I took my kids to a shopping centre here talking in Arabic, and a lady said, it’s so beautiful you speak in your language with your kids.
“That made all the difference for me. At that moment I realised I did the right thing.”
Phoebe Mason has been with Melbourne Playback for nine years and was the artistic director of the company who performed last week.
The unique form of theatre requires immense rehearsals, immersive techniques to perform in sync with the group looking out for tiny details like metaphors, tone of the voice, deep listening, even listening for potentially unsaid things based off unfinished sentences as well as body language.
“We feel very thrilled that the organisation has trusted us with the community and this topic because it’s such a painful and present topic.
“It’s a real leap of faith to open up that space, while trusted it will be held appropriately and safely with positive outcomes.
“Because of the nature of our work, we never know what stories are shared by people so we are always ready for bigger social issues brought
into the room,” Ms Masons says.
“We are focused on honouring a person’s experience. We find that’s very empowering and enjoyable, by the end people are more connected to each other, there’s humour and they laugh.
“It opens the space for people in a suspended moment to spend time with these events. It creates a community space to collectively go, OK what is happening in these moments and what can we change?”
Greater Dandenong mayor, Sophie Tan also attended the event and took part in answering questions by the facilitator.
Cr Tan, being the first female Cambodian-Australian mayor in the country, touched on the importance of belonging and feeling safe especially as a new arrival to the country.
“I just want people to know that we are the most multicultural city, so there’s no racism here.
“As a council, we do promote a lot of anti-racism, we do have a lot of our signs, especially in activity centres and reserves.
“We want people to at least speak up about this issue, which is very important.”
Melbourne Playback have previously worked with different organisations, corporates and even retirement village on topics like mental health, staff satisfaction, gender violence and bystander topics.
Ms Smiley urges increased funding targeted towards prevention rather than merely “splash-
ing money” responding to racism. She also touched on the “insidious wave of hate” online, referring to Wester Australia’s Senator Fatima Payman’s social media accounts flooded with racist comments targeting not just her but those associated with her.
Ms Payman has recently shared the constant racist emails and calls her office has been receiving, urging the government to provide more support and publicly condemn the abuse.
An automotive re-manufacturing company has formally opened its $114 million headquarters and facility in Dandenong South.
Walkingshaw Group’s expanded, state-of-the art manufacturing plant is expected to create 155 new jobs in production, engineering and administration.
Its new 100,000 square metre facility – equivalent to five MCGs and one of the largest manufacturing sites in Australia - was opened by Industry and Advanced Manufacturing Minister Colin Brooks on Monday 17 November.
“Victoria is Australia’s leading advanced manufacturing state, and this state-of-the-art facility is a testament to the strength and resilience of our
The company, which has grown into Australia’s largest automotive remanufacturer, specialises in vehicle enhancements and left-and-drive to right-hand-drive conversions for brands such as General Motors, Toyota, Volkswagen and Isuzu.
automotive industry,” Brooks said.
The facility in Taylors Road consolidates three existing sites, accommodating up to 1500 employees and manufacturing more than 10,000 vehicles a year across more than four production lines.
Touted as Australia’s most advanced automotive engineering centre, it also features a renewable solar energy system.
Walkinshaw Group chief executive Ryan Walkinshaw said the firm “truly believe in the strength
of Australian manufacturing and engineering, especially here in Victoria”.
“This should show everyone how committed we are for the long term.”
The State Government says it supports manufacturers, innovation and skilled jobs with its recently launched Victorian Industry Policy and the $150 million Victorian Investment Fund.
Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams called the investment a “huge win for Dandenong”.
The South East is proving a hot-spot for intercepted drug-drivers, with Pakenham and Dandenong topping the state, according to Victoria Police.
Pakenham was No.1 with 358 drug drivers intercepted by police in the 2024-’25 financial year. This was triple the number of intercepts in the second-ranked suburb Dandenong (114).
Pakenham was also the most common place for drug-drivers to live.
Nearly one in five – or 18 per cent – of Victoria’s drug-driving intercepts were in the Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia region.
Of the 1460 drug drivers, 58 per cent were repeat offenders and about a quarter were unauthorized drivers.
The vast majority of positive roadside tests
detected methamphetamine (69 per cent). About 43 per cent of those tests were dual detections of meth and cannabis.
Police say the South East region was also No.1 for collisions involving drivers impaired by drugs and/or alcohol.
Cardinia Highway Patrol Acting Sergeant Kristina Tabone said the high numbers of repeat offenders was “extremely concerning” and “reckless”.
“Anyone who makes the decision to get behind the wheel while impaired by drugs is nothing short of selfish, careless and completely irresponsible.
“They are not only putting themselves at risk of death or serious injury – they are far more likely
to cause a crash and take the life of an innocent road user.”
Cardinia Highway Patrol officers intercepted a 21-year-old P-plater from Pakenham under the influence of methamphetamine and alcohol and who clocked 140km/h in a 70 zone.
She was charged with drink and drug driving, driving while suspended, driving an unregistered vehicle, three counts of speeding and two counts of running red lights.
She was disqualified from driving for six months.
A 37-year-old suspended driver tested positive to cannabis while taking her children to school.
She was also disqualified for six months.
A 33-year-old disqualified driver was also al-
legedly driving under the influence in Pakenham.
He was also charged with having incorrect plates and driving an unregistered car. He will appear at court on summons.
Police say their active testing and removing impaired drivers from roads was helping to reduce the road toll.
Eleven people have died on South East roads this year – which is 52 per cent lower than this time last year.
“We see too often the tragic consequences of poor choices on our roads. If drivers continue take illicit substances and decide to drive, tragedy is inevitable,” Acting Sgt Tabone said.
“That’s why we will continue to target drivers impaired by drugs – anywhere, anytime.”
By Sahar Foladi
An elderly resident who advocated for a safer crossing on Stud Road, Dandenong North has lost her on-street car park space as part of an intersection redesign.
Elisabeth Weber, 86, has lived at the service road corner of Stud and McFees roads for more than 60 years, as one of the first homes in the area.
While her neighbours can park their cars on the service road in front of their addresses, Ms Weber has been left with none.
“We needed the (pedestrian) lights very badly, except they took my parking spots away - I need that very badly too.
“I don’t know why they changed their mind.”
Ms Weber joined a successful campaign with councillor Lana Formoso and the wider community for a traffic-light controlled pedestrian crossing to the nearby Dandenong Stadium, bus stop and parklands.
It came after a series of pedestrian fatalities
including a toddler who was fatally struck while crossing with his father in December 2023.
Under the re-design, the service road has been blocked-off just after Ms Weber’s narrow driveway, so cars exit directly onto Stud Road instead of McFees Road. The previous on-street parking space has been replaced by a widened nature strip and footpath.
Before the works began, she says she received a doorknock to let her know she will keep two parking spots right in front of her house. She was never consulted on the apparent design change.
The 86-year-old lives independently in her home, with the help of a cleaner every week, and a gardener and massage person every second week.
“Because my carer comes, she has to park here at the driveway, and the massage lady had to park further down and carry the table all the way, so I had to change the time.
“She comes on Monday lunchtime and the gardener in the late afternoon, otherwise they can’t park.
“But what happens then if I need an ambulance?”
A Victorian Government spokesperson said that “we have worked with the local community to reduce disruptions.”
It’s believed that the Department of Transport and Planning undertook consultation with the community throughout the project both in the lead up to the construction and during the works.
Efforts were said to have made to ensure minimal impact including car spaces and while preliminary designs aimed to retain the car spaces, further reviews of detailed designs identified road safety issues.
The project continued with an altered and safer service road and an extended footpath.
Following this decision, representatives from DTP spoke with Greater Dandenong Council and the local community, including in-person doorknocking with impacted residents, to advise of the necessary changes to the design.
A next-door neighbour of 18 years, Jacqueline
Murray says, “the plans changed completely.”
“It a silly thing they’ve done, mainly for Elisabeth.
“She had a friend come last week. He had a four-wheel drive, it took him three attempts to get off the service road from her driveway to get onto Stud Rd - you have to back around couple times.”
She says parking their cars on the service road is also a risk, as cars driving past on the service road come very close to their parked cars.
According to her, some vehicles have driven on top of the new footpath which is why her husband blocked the new footpath with T-top bollards.
“If visitors come, it’s a risk of them too. I don’t know how it’s all going to end.”
When Ms Weber’s children and grandchildren gather at her place for Christmas, they’ll have to hunt for a parking space - something they never had to deal with before.
It is anticipated that the $12.6 million state and federally-project will be complete in coming months.
By Sahar Foladi
Disability housing residents along Cheltenham Road Dandenong say street car parking has become a storage space for a car rental business just across the road.
Corey Paton is one of the many residents living in the double storey units, saying the unmoved cars pose serious safety concerns and inconvenience.
“This is outside disability housing - residents that include people with mobility and health challenges.
“The cars attract theft and break-ins, creating a safety and security risk.
“We literally have to park at a different street, any sort of daily activities become a lot harder.
“A lot of us end up ordering Uber Eats. It’s difficult for them to deliver it far away and we have to go pick it up from the back.”
Up to 20 rental cars are said to be parked in the spaces outside their residences.
An elderly resident, Gareth Jones was recently discharged from hospital after a hip replacement surgery, making it extremely inconvenient for him to park in the back street.
Usually, like most residents, he would park in front of his unit, easily accessible especially for grocery shopping runs.
Mr Paton says some of the cars are without licence plates, some hold South Australian plates making it unregistered in Victoria and most of the cars sit unmoved for months.
Some of the cars have also been broken and on one occasion, Mr Paton had to call police to report the theft of the licensed plate.
Star Journal contacted the rental-car business’s owner, who said he was “in the middle of something.”
“A lot of our cars have been vandalised and damaged so it’s the other way around - we are the victims.
“I don’t know who is doing this, it’s been reported to the police as well.”
Being a resident for almost 10 years, Mr Paton first noticed the issue at the beginning of the year when he saw the business logos behind the cars, but he suspects this has been going on for longer.
Asked whether he reached out to the business, Mr Paton says, “they literally laughed at me saying too bad there’s nothing you can do about it. They turned very petty.”
That was the last communication he had before turning to Greater Dandenong Council, the Minister for Transport and Infrastructure’s office, Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams and Vic Roads, but the issue remains.
Four cars have been removed as they were without a licensed plate, Mr Paton says. But they are only replaced by other cars from the business, he says.
“It appears to exploit enforcement gaps. Cars sit for months until stickered, then are shuffled and replaced, effectively gaming the system while council action stalls.”
Recently, Council’s city future’s executive director, Sanjay Manivasagasivam said compliance officers are making enquiries with the business “to ensure permit requirements are being met.”
“Cheltenham Road is managed by the State Government and problems related to parking at this location can be reported via the VicRoads website or by calling 13 11 71.
According to Cheltenham Road residents, cars remain unmoved for months, attracting break-ins and vandalism. (Stewart Chambers: 517222_01)
“Likewise, criminal activity such as theft from vehicles should be reported to Victoria Police.
“We have provided the above advice to residents who have contacted us regarding this matter.”
Star Journal made an enquiry to the Department of Transport but were referred to Victoria Police and Greater Dandenong Council, as parking issues aren’t dealt by the transport team, they said.
Mr Paton says he wants a solution for the cars to stop being dumped there, saying a resident-only parking permit would be ideal. But he concedes this may be difficult, given the council has refused residential parking-permit proposals on Bassett Street.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A Greater Dandenong councillor representative will no longer sit on a community reference group (CRG) overseeing the controversial Lyndhurst toxic waste landfill.
On 13 November, councillors unanimously approved their withdrawal from the Taylors Road landfill CRG.
A council officer will instead continue to represent Greater Dandenong on the group, which meets every three months.
The move seems at odds with the council’s concerns about community health and recent EPA notices and fines against the site’s operator.
Greater Dandenong had vigorously advocated for more than 20 years for the closure of the landfill, which accepts proscribed industrial waste and highly contaminated soils.
In August, three community members attended the CRG, as well as a trio from EPA, a trio from Veolia, a representative from the site’s contaminated soil facility EarthSure and a Greater Dandenong Council manager.
CRG community attendee Thelma Wakelam said it was “disappointing” that councillors would no longer attend.
“It’s different to having a council officer there because a councillor’s role is to represent the community.
“If there’s no community representation, there’s little accountability. If they’re committed to the earliest possible closure, they need a councillor there.”
According to minutes, it appears no councillor has attended the CRG meetings since Angela Long in late 2022.
Cr Rhonda Garad was listed as the nominated councillor for the group in 2024-’25, but says she wasn’t made aware of the posting.
“It’s quite concerning that I was not made aware.
“I have no problem with an officer attending instead but I’d like to be kept informed. I haven’t
‘No
had any updates for a very long time.”
Cr Garad said the council was regardless “still strongly opposed to the landfill and wants it shut down as soon as possible.”
Greater Dandenong city futures executive director Sanjay Manivasagasivam said the move was as a result of the group’s “more operational focus”.
“The issues that arise tend to be around road use, signage and other operational matters.
“For this reason, it has been more useful to have a senior council officer attend, rather than a councillor.
“We have found that council officers can often provide useful, practical information in response to enquiries and take issues away to
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
Lyndhurst landfill operator Veolia has told a community reference group that it does not have a “sunset clause” for one of the state’s most hazardous tips, and it depended on the market and what people sent to the landfill.
According to the CRG minutes in August, a Veolia representative told the meeting that the site was taking markedly less waste than in the 1990s and that “the State Government has concerns about the site closing”.
“Veolia is in discussions with the government regarding the need to build the final cell, Cell 21, because the state needs it for the reportable priority waste,” the minutes recorded.
It also reported that pollution watchdog Environment Protection Authority Victoria had rejected the proposed Cell 21.
The Taylors Road landfill, operating since the early 1990s, is one of two proscribed hazardous-waste dumps in Victoria.
A previous Labor State Government pledged to stop allowing toxic waste at Lyndhurst by 2020, but its time line is now being left to operator Veolia.
It has a potential to remain open beyond 2046, then-Environment Minister Lily D’Ambrosio told Parliament in 2019.
In 2024, the State Government said the enddate was a question for landfill operator Veolia based on waste filling rates and landfill capacity.
Road near the future SRL Cheltenham Station from late January.
“Many are working close to that landfill who still don’t know there’s highly hazardous material there.”
According to the CRG’s minutes in August, the discussion wasn’t confined to signage and traffic. There was talk of a proposed new “final” landfill cell – Cell 21 - that was rejected by the EPA. Other issues of public interest raised were the handling of PFAS (‘forever chemicals’) during soil treatment and a report listing the sources of contaminated soil including the Suburban Rail Loop project.
The EPA - which has fined and put the landfill on notice in recent years - reported it conducted two inspections of the landfill this year, with no “current active notices”.
In the past 20 years, councillors have repeatedly called for the tip’s immediate closure.
These calls intensified in 2024, after Environment Protection Authority Victoria issued three improvement notices to operator Veolia for leachate (wastewater), dust and landfill gas issues at the tip.
Greater Dandenong mayor Lana Formoso at the time said the community had “lost complete faith and trust in this facility”.
The same year, Veolia was fined $40,000 for failing to use permissioned vehicles to transport hazardous waste.
As
Road upgrades will also continue, including weekend closures on the Princes Freeway at Clyde Road in Berwick, and works at Thompson and Berwick-Cranbourne Roads.
bring back quick answers.
“We are still strongly committed to keeping open channels of communication between local stakeholders, council and the operator.”
Manivasagasivam said the group used to be “highly engaged around strategic land use” when there were more residences nearby.
“Over time, the area has developed with much more industrial use, and very few residential properties.”
Wakelam says that in any case, many people are working and living near the landfill.
“In a way, it’s worse that there’s more industrial use there. If there’s any emissions, it means there’s people living and working there who don’t leave the area.
In 2023, it was fined $9246 for failing to report on groundwater quality at Taylors Road by the specified time.
In response at the time, the Government stated the landfill to be held to the “highest operating standards, in line with community expectations”.
“EPA has strengthened its oversight of Veolia’s landfill sites, and is conducting more frequent inspections of the site.
“Although there was no imminent risk to human health or the environment, nor any impacts beyond the boundary of the site, the (improvement) notices were issued on the basis of risks not being managed as far as reasonably practicable.”
EPA Victoria is conducting snap inspections at factories in the South East that use plastic pellets in their manufacturing process.
The pellets, known as nurdles, need close management to ensure they don’t escape the factory sites and enter our stormwater drains which eventually flow to our waterways and out into the bay, the EPA stated.
The inspections mainly in the Braeside, Dandenong and Keysborough areas, are unannounced to ensure EPA officers get a good understanding of how the facility is operating under normal conditions. “Nurdles are basically microplastics that are heated and then used to produce plastic goods,” EPA south metropolitan regional manager Viranga Abeywickrema said.
“They’re tiny so it’s easy for them to escape a site and into the stormwater system. Manufacturers need to ensure they have good onsite practices to ensure they are kept onsite.”
Officers look for evidence of nurdles outside the factory walls or in the drain.
“Many are good operators doing the right thing and willing to do more if it helps to protect the environment,” Abeywickrema said.
“But where we find cases where microplastics or any pollutant is escaping to our stormwater system, we act to ensure improvements are made.”
The inspections, which are being assisted with information from Melbourne-based marine environmental protectors Tangaroa Blue will continue through November.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
A driver of a stolen ute laden with stolen electric scooters who repeatedly rammed a police car and injured an officer in Springvale South has avoided a full mandatory jail term.
After a successful stint in drug rehab, Ashley Bowley, 46, was given credit for making positive, substantial steps towards reform by a Victorian County Court sentencing judge.
The father of four and grandfather pleaded guilty to charges including aggravated recklessly exposing an emergency worker to risk by driving and recklessly damaging an emergency service vehicle.
The two offences carry mandatory jail unless there’s substantial and compelling circumstances.
On 27 December 2022, Bowley stole five boxes of electric scooters worth $30,000 from a Springvale business’s loading bay and placed them in the tray of a stolen Ford Ranger.
The unlicenced Bowley was later spotted by police while he rode one of the unregistered scooters down the wrong side of the road and without a helmet in Springvale South.
When told to stop, Bowley went inside a home’s double-swing gate, got in the ute and reversed it towards an officer.
An officer smashed one of the ute’s windows with a baton as she yelled for him to stop. OC spray was also deployed to no effect.
Bowley reversed seven times into a police car that blockaded the driveway, each time inching the police vehicle further onto the road.
Eventually he forced his way through a gap, destroying the metal gate and brick fence –with a flying part of the gate deeply cutting a
police officer’s knee.
Bowley was later reportedly driving erratically through Parkmore shopping centre’s car park – including overtaking another car in the entrance lane.
After mounting a kerb and crashing into a pole, Bowley then took off on foot. In the abandoned ute, police found a magazine for a gun.
A week or so later in early January 2023, he was arrested after being found with 1,4-butanediol, cannabis and meth and $550 cash in a satchel in Ashburton.
At the time, he was on a community correction order.
In sentencing on 17 November, Judge Elizabeth Briner found special circumstances to not impose mandatory jail.
This was through a causal link between Bowley’s ADHD and PTSD with his offending.
His PTSD was as a result of significant abuse, violence and trauma as a child and adult.
A psychologist reported that when Bowley
saw the police vehicle, he was driven by panic and an “exaggerated flight response” – caused by past interactions with law enforcement including an assault and police shooting.
On the other hand, he had an extensive and persistent criminal history across three Australian states, 17 years and several prison stints. As well as abusing drugs over three decades.
However, Bowley was bailed for a successful 16-week stay in residential drug rehab, which gave cause for “cautious optimism”, the judge said.
In that time, he “couldn’t have done more”, earned an extension of his rehab program, cleared all drug screenings and rebuilt his broken family relationships.
Bowley was sentenced to 111 days jail, which he has already served, with a two-year community correction order.
The supervised CCO includes 200 hours of unpaid work and drug and mental health treatment, as well as judicial monitoring.
A paint manufacturer has been charged after a worker died in an explosion and fire that engulfed a Dandenong South factory in December 2023.
Indoc Pty Ltd faces four workplace safety charges after the 57-year-old man died and two other workers were seriously injured at the Superior Drive premises.
WorkSafe alleges that flammable liquid ignited while being decanted into drums, causing the explosion and blaze.
The authority claims that Indoc failed to undertake an up-to-date hazardous area assessment.
It also allegedly failed to eliminate non-intrinsically safe equipment from where flammable liquid transfer was occurring.
WorkSafe also claims that Indoc failed to supervise workers to ensure earthing and bonding controls and a spear or filling pipe were in place prior to the liquid transfer into drums.
A filing hearing is scheduled at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 8 December.
Recently, I witnessed something Australia has lost - and urgently needs back.
I was in Kuala Lumpur, sitting quietly in the corner of my father’s VI (Victoria Institution) school reunion. Class of 1963-1969.
My dad - the only Sikh man here in a turbanis being greeted with such genuine respect. They remember him as a school prefect. Captain in hockey, soccer, athletics. A leader even as a teenager.
The look in their eyes when they see himpride, belonging, connection - is almost sacred.
And then something happened that cut me straight to the core.
They all stood up… and sang the school song. Every word.
Sixty years later.
Still in their hearts.
DR. JAMEL KAUR SINGH & DYA SINGH
Not curriculum documents and rubrics.
But identity.
Belonging. Respect.
Pride in who we are and who we walked beside.
Malaysia is deeply multicultural - Malay, Chinese, Indian, Sikh, all faiths - yet they have never lost a sense of cultural cohesion.
They have differences - but there is a baseline
By Ursula Aruma of Sri Sathya Sai Organisation
Message of Hope is always a good time to remind people that renunciation - in many areas of lifehas benefits for the mind, body, the health and for reaching the objectives of life.
God is the source of prosperity and power.
But man ignores God who is the very basis of his life and his mind becomes a bundle of worldly and never-ending desires.
He is only interested in grabbing and grasping and full of extrovert qualities resulting in the promotion of hatred, envy, greed, and jealousy.
On the journey of spiritual progress, it is vital to perform one’s duties with a spirit of dedication and devotion to God.
This in turn will reward man with divine qualities of love and compassion and an urge to serve the less fortunate.
His mind is free from mental worries and he can live a life of peace and harmony.
Sacrificing some things in life, instead of pursuing material comforts.
Also offering the sacrifices we make with divine attributes, so that it will be beneficial for our spiritual upliftment.
We must try ceaselessly to tread this path and reach the goal, by performing one’s duty and action without interest in the fruits of action.
It does not mean that the doer has no right for the fruit, the doer has a right for the fruit but he
should not selfishly desire the fruit.
The results that the deed yields should be considered instead.
The best way to follow the path of renunciation is to keep the company of good and godly, and performing all actions with a pure heart.
Be good in character, that you will make you immaculate before the public.
Enquiries regarding the Interfaith Network, City of Greater Dandenong administration@interfaithnetwork.org.au or 8774 7662.
• Visit interfaithnetwork.org.au
Phone 5945 0600
of shared identity that creates unity.
This is why a reunion 60 years later is not merely a dinner - it is reverence.
And I’m realising - painfully -how much this is missing in Australia.
We no longer build school spirit.
We have no real traditions.
We have no intentional pride-building rituals.
Ask most Australian students today to sing their school song - if one even exists - many don’t even know there is one.
We need to bring back:
• School songs.
• School values lived, not laminated.
• House rivalries that build belonging.
• Respect for teachers and principals.
• Alumni who return not just to reunite - but to honour.
100 years ago
26 November 1925
DANDENONG COURT EDUCATION ACT
Before Messers Freeman P.M, Pearson, Abbott, Branston and Tharle J’s.P. Howard Hemple (three charges), and Francis Pow (one charge) were fined 2/- on each charge of not sending their children to school the required number of days. Thomas Pyke (two charges) and Timothy Moroney (two charges), against each of whom were prior convictions, were fined 10/- on each charge for similar offences. Sickness was pleaded as the reason why the son of Robert Jones was not sent to school as required by the Act, but the bench was not satisfied the lad was ill on the dates of the charge, and the defendant was fined 2/6.
50 years ago
20 November 1975
Oktoberfest .. Here to stay!
No fewer than a mammoth 100,000 visited the Dandenong Oktoberfest between last Friday and Sunday afternoon … proof positive that the festival is here to stay and really put Dandenong on the ethnic cultural map. Organised by the Teutonia German-Australian Club of Dandenong and the Edelweiss Folk Dancing Group, club president Mr George Schwedt couldn’t stop smiling. Also smiling were Dandenong police, a spokesman for whom said “considering the huge number of people and the availability of big stocks of liquor, we had very few problems. We congratulate the crowd on their behaviour.”
20 years ago
28 November 2005
Village launch
Dandenong’s $25 million Metro Village 3175 residential project was launched by VicUrban and Greater Dandenong Council last week. The event showcased a mix of apartments
This is how we build connection and national pride.
This is how we embed cultural intelligence from childhood.
This is how we produce adults who stand tallgrounded in who they are.
Watching these elderly men embrace my father with such love and honour, I am reminded that when you build belonging early, the world never takes it away.
Australia - we need to start again. From schools.
From identity.
From pride.
Maybe the thing we all want - unity - is not as complicated as we’ve made it. It might simply begin with… a school song.
• What do you think? Let us know at dailyeditor@ starnewsgroup.com.au
and town houses, with more than 50 deposits taken for properties on the night. VicUrban development director Domenic Arcaro hailed the project a success. “People are jumping at the opportunity to invest in this development and Dandenong’s future.” The village will have 1100 houses and will accommodate 3000 residents. 5 years ago
24 November 2020
Long–Tan history
In a moment of history, Angela Long and Sophie Tan have been elected as Greater Dandenong Council’s first mayor–deputy mayor team. The Long–Tan team was elected unopposed by colleagues to lead a fresh-faced council at the public meeting last Thursday. It belied a five-all vote deadlock between Cr Long and Jim Memeti for the leadership three days earlier. The contest was decided behind the scenes by drawing a ball out of a hat. Newly elected Dandenong North Ward councillor Bob Milkovic enigmatically abstained from both the mayor and deputy mayor votes. “It was my legal right”, he said, dismissing any pressure to cast a deciding mayoral vote. Cr Long, who last served as mayor in 2000 and 2012, will lead a fresh-faced council – with five out of 11 councillors being first-timers. Compiled by Dandenong & District Historical Society
By Violet Li
City of Casey has returned Cr Stefan Koomen as mayor and elected Cr Michelle Crowther as a new deputy mayor.
On 18 November, Cranbourne Gardens Ward councillor Crowther was unanimously voted in after being nominated by outgoing Deputy Mayor Melinda Ambros.
Cr Crowther got emotional when she remarked on being elected.
“I promise I will continue to work hard, support the councillor group to achieve goals, especially achieving the great outcomes for the Casey community, which is the most important reason why we’re all here,” she said.
“It has been a challenging year, and we appreciate your support, especially when the times have been tough.
“A highlight of the year that has been is meeting so many amazing community volunteers and groups over the last year, and I hope now, as Deputy Mayor, I’ll get to meet even more groups and together we can help the Casey community to thrive.
“To our residents, I assure you that this councillor group has you at the heart of everything we do. We are all local residents too, and we are your voice, so we will continue to listen, advocate and deliver what is important to you.
“Being a Councillor is definitely a family effort and my husband and kids have supported me and provided me the encouragement I need, to bring my best to the role. They are my biggest supporters and cheer squad. Along with my extended family and my fantastic colleagues, I couldn’t take on the Deputy Mayor position without them all.”
Cr Crowther is a women’s health physiotherapist and has operated her own clinic in Cranbourne for the last 20 years.
Ever since being elected, she has been vocal on the community issues at almost every council
meeting, especially on issues affecting the Cranbourne and the southern side of the municipality.
Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen has been unanimously re-elected as the only mayoral nominee. He was nominated by Cr Jennifer Dizon.
He previously disclosed his intention to run a second time.
Mayor Cr Koomen also got really emotional when he delivered his speech.
“I just want to say it’s been an incredibly challenging but rewarding year for us as a councillor group, and I think we should be proud of where we’re at,” he said.
“What we’ve faced in terms of having to learn everything as a new councillor group, the his-
Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (SMCT) Children’s Remembrance Service 20th Anniversary - A heartfelt tradition returns to Bunurong Memorial Park.
Families are invited to attend the 20th anniversary of the SMCT Children’s Remembrance Service, on Sunday 7 December, 2025 from 5.00 to 7.00 pm at the Stratus Reflection Space within Bunurong Memorial Park.
This annual service offers a meaningful space for families to come together and remember babies and children who are no longer with us. Over the past two decades, it has become a cherished tradition that brings comfort, connection, and reflection to the community.
This year, the event returns to Bunurong Memorial Park to mark this special 20-year milestone and continue the tradition.
Miscarriage Information Support Service (MISS) Founder Melissa King says it has “a warm atmosphere, with the room full of love.”
A special moment in the service is remembering the ‘Eternal Light’ star named in memory of every child honoured since the first service in 2005. It represents the love that lives on and the strength of coming together.
Melissa shared how meaningful it was to receive a white lantern with her baby’s name and to hear his name read aloud during the service. “I look forward to attending this touching remembrance service again this year,” she said.
Whether you have attended before or are joining for the first time, we welcome all families. Reserve your place and be part of this heartfelt tradition. Registration is required.
• Date: Sunday 7 December
• Time: 5.00 – 7.00 pm
torical issues that we had to tackle early on while doing that and all while under monitors for the first 12 months, I think we all know that it’s not a normal year.
“It hasn’t been anything but normal, but it’s been rewarding, and it’s been an incredibly, it’s been an incredible honour to lead the group.”
He said that the group still has a lot of development to go, but they’ve been a united and functioning group.
“And I think that’s what our council needed,” he said.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
On the eve of a state election year, Casey’s back-to-back mayor Stefan Koomen says transport infrastructure will be one of the biggest issues on the council’s wishlist.
The council will advocate for the completion of Thompsons Road duplication and a railway extension to Clyde as top priorities, Cr Koomen told Star News after his unanimous re-election on 18 November.
“The community is really crying out for transport out to Clyde and all parts of Cranbourne.”
After a five-year hiatus, councillors had much to learn in the past 12 months but had been a “united and functioning group”, he said.
This was while facing the well-known “historical issues” investigated by the IBAC Operation Sandon inquiry as well as the scrutiny of municipal monitors.
He paid tribute to his former deputy mayor Melinda Ambros, who was his “rock” during some “difficult times”.
Cr Koomen said Cr Ambros stepped up after councillors were “really jolted” by the first public meeting this year, which was shut down due to an uproarious and hostile gallery.
Cr Koomen will work with the councillor group on their agenda for the next 12 months, he said.
“I’m proud of how we could reconnect with the community and bring back a community voice that has been missing for a five-year period.
• Location: Stratus Reflection Space, within Bunurong Memorial Park, 790 FrankstonDandenong Road Dandenong South, VIC 3175.
• Scan the QR Code to register: https://www. smct.org.au/events
“I hope to be able to take that on in the second year, work with everyone and build on that culture that we’ve created, as a councillor group.”
“For the first year, that was the most important thing – building back the trust and putting it on a positive trajectory.”
smct.org.au/events
Floral arrangements are a beautiful way to bring colour and festive cheer into your home over the Christmas season. Here are some of the blooms set to be favourites for summer 2025.
Poinsettia
The poinsettia has come to symbolise Christmas, and with its bright red and green foliage it’s not hard to see why.
They are commonly found in pots, ready to adorn a table or bench in your house.
However, they can be finicky; they don’t like too much water, but take care also to not let them dry out.
If the leaves begin to turn yellow and fall off, you may not be watering it correctly.
They’re native to Mexico, so they also prefer warmth and light, and make sure to protect them from wind and draughts to keep them happy for the Christmas season.
Lilies
Lilies and amaryllis are always a popular selec-
tion at Christmas in a variety of colours.
Many varieties have a beautiful scent that will perfume your home.
They can be placed in an arrangement with other flowers or in a vase on their own and prefer to be kept away from direct sunlight in a cool environment.
Remember though that lilies are extremely toxic to cats, causing acute renal failure, so think twice before gifting them to your cat-loving friend and keep them out of reach of your own felines.
Rosemary
It might not be the first plant that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, but this Mediterranean herb is actually perfect for an Australian Christmas.
It’s easy to grow and care for, and fills the air with a mouth-watering perfume.
It can be pruned into a Christmas tree shape if desired, and best of all, pairs deliciously well with the Christmas roast.
12 Days of Christmas at Dandenong Market
Free festive fun for families – crafts, music, Santa photos and more!
This December, Dandenong Market is bringing the magic of Christmas to life with 12 Days of Christmas. Running on Market days from Tuesday 2 December to Sunday 21 December the Market will come alive with festive cheer, creative workshops, and joyful entertainment for kids of all ages. Whether you’re a local or visiting from across Melbourne, this is your chance to make unforgettable holiday memories – all for free.
In partnership with the Dandenong Community and Learning Centre, our 12 Days of Christmas program is packed with hands-on fun.
Activites include:
• Christmas crafts and card making
• Cookie decorating
• Face painting and hair braiding
• Music circles and sing-alongs
• Online DIY tutorials for at-home fun
• Also, every Tuesday and Friday enjoy:
• Christmas Card Making Station
• Santa’s Colouring Station
Plus, don’t miss your chance to meet Santa himself and post your letter straight to the
North Pole!
This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy family-friendly Christmas events in Melbourne without breaking the bank. With something new each Market day, there’s always a reason to come back and experience the festive spirit again and again.
Event Details
• What: 12 Days of Christmas (View the full schedule here)
• Where: Dandenong Market – Corner Clow and Cleeland Streets, Dandenong
• When: Every Market day from Tuesday 2 December to Sunday 21 December
• Time: 10am – 2pm (unless otherwise stated)
• Cost: Free
• Plan your visit now
• Follow us on social media for updates About Dandenong Market:
DandenongMarketisMelbourne’siconicmulticultural hub, offering a vibrant mix of food, culture, and entertainment. With over 200 traders, the market is renowned for its diverse range of fresh produce, street food, unique shopping experiences, and lively events that celebrate Melbourne’s rich cultural tapestry.
Dandenong Market is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
Sandown Park is gearing up to host an unfor-
gettable Melbourne Cup 2025, proudly themed
“Simply the Best.” The iconic greyhound racing event will bring together elite competition, vibrant entertainment, and premium hospitality in a celebration of sporting excellence and community spirit.
This year’s Cup is set to be the biggest yet, with all dining packages sold out and a full evening of live entertainment planned.
The outdoor precinct free and open to the public, will come alive with Rewind 80s performing in Box 9, while Ruva, star of the Tina Turner Musical, will deliver a show-stopping perfor-
mance inside the venue and out.
Adding to the excitement, the popular Million Dollar Wheel returns, giving patrons the chance to spin and win.
Sandown Park is welcoming everyone—racing enthusiasts, families, and visitors of all ages— with free entry ensuring the event remains accessible to the whole community.
Guests can look forward to a bustling atmosphere filled with great music, food trucks, and world-class racing.
Gates open from 5.30 pm to 11.00 pm, promising an action-packed evening that truly lives up to the theme: Simply the Best.
The Bridge Inc is a not-for-profit organisation that offers various community and employment services to people with disabilities.
Our flexible, client-centred model allows individuals to choose supports that align with their goals, creating personalised pathways to independence and fulfilment.
Our services are divided into two core areas:
The Bridge Connects and The Bridge Employment.
We believe in empowering each person to create their own unique pathway, combining supports from both areas to meet their own needs and aspirations.
Choose from:
The Bridge Connects Community Services
• Day Services
Aimed at providing health and wellbeing, learning life skills and participating socially with friends whilst out in the community.
• Recreation
Our Getaways program provides recreational leisure activities, as well as trips away in Victoria and interstate. Support that travels with you.
• 1:1 Individual Support
Our Your Supports program provides 1:1 support in home and the community.
• Accommodation
Supervision and/or assistance with everyday tasks, seven days a week, in one of our shared accommodation Supported Independent Living homes.
• Support Coordination NDIS plan assistance to help you understand and use your plan to achieve your goals and manage services.
Inclusive services creating opportunities.
The Bridge Employment Services
• Job Skills Training (NDIS)
Our Your Job Now program provides job skills training. This includes work experience, 1:1 weekly coaching sessions and group activities to help you find and keep a job.
• Supported Employment All abilities employment opportunities at our
warehouses and microbusinesses. Matching your skills with positions available at The Bridge Employment.
• Open Employment
Through the Inclusive Employment Australia program, we can help build your skills and find a job that suits your interests.
The Bridge Inc is your local NDIS pro-
vider. We operate in multiple locations in the Southeast and Northern suburbs of Melbourne.
Not sure which is the right service for you? No problem! Our friendly team are here to get you started. Call us on 1800 274 343 or email enquiries@thebridgeinc.org.au to start your journey today.
From still dawns to starlit dinners, discover why the low season is the perfect time to explore the heart of Australia.
The first thing most people notice in the Red Centre is the space. The horizon stretches endlessly, the silence hums, and the land feels ancient and grounding. In the middle of this vastness sits Alice Springs, a small desert town with a vibrant community, framed by the red-and-violet folds of the stunning MacDonnell Ranges.
While many travellers visit Central Australia during the winter months, the low season offers visitors time and space to soak in the iconic Red Centre landscapes and tourism experiences, minus the crowds.
Begin a Red Centre adventure at the Araluen Cultural Precinct, where powerful desert artworks and deep cultural stories unfurl in a quiet, cool gallery space. Nearby, art centres and galleries await, including the Iltja Ntjarra (Many Hands) Art Centre, Tjanpi Desert Weavers and Bindi Enterprises, places to discover vibrant watercolours, joyful grass sculptures and extraordinary art.
When hunger calls, follow the locals to longtime favourite Page 27 cafe for lunch and end the day at Hanuman, Jimmy Shu’s beloved multiaward-winning restaurant, where richly spiced curries taste even better after a day of discovery.
In Alice Springs, autumn brings colour and culture. From 26–29 March 2026, fabALICE transforms the CBD with dazzling celebrations of drag, comedy, cabaret and community. Inspired by the spirit of Priscilla Queen of the Desert, this vibrant festival brings colour, camp and creativity to Alice Springs, honouring inclusivity, diversity and the unique cultural magic of Central Australia.
Then from 10–19 April 2026, Parrtjima festival lights up the MacDonnell Ranges and Alice Springs Desert Park with large-scale art installations, language workshops, bush food experiences and nightly performances including Electric Fields and Emma Donovan. It is a moving, free 10-night celebration of Aboriginal culture and Country and a must-do for visitors of all ages.
Low season is also when the desert truly rewards the early riser. Mornings are cool and calm, perfect for exploring Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park. Walk among red rock walls, where a visitor hears nothing but their own footsteps, and watch ghost gums glow in the first light. Ellery Creek Big Hole offers a deep, cool waterhole in a quiet gorge, while nearby Angkerle Atwatye/ Standley Chasm ignites in fiery red at midday.
As the day warms, travellers take to the open road. The Red Centre Way is perfect for daytime driving, with long stretches of winding roads and surprises at every bend from wildflowers after rain, wedge-tailed eagles circling overhead, a quiet unexpected waterhole. Caravan parks in Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, and Yulara offer shady trees, clean facilities and a friendly, unhurried community atmosphere.
A must-do for any traveller visiting the Red Centre is Kings Canyon. Hike the iconic rim walk at sunrise for the most breathtaking views as the desert wakes. Low season mornings feel especial-
ly peaceful: fewer voices, expansive views, and the rare feeling of being small amongst the vast landscapes. To take in the full grandeur of Kings Canyon, a scenic flight is a must-do for any traveller and offers a whole new perspective of the canyon’s domes and towering cliffs. Evenings bring people together for the iconic ‘Under a Desert Moon’ dining experience, giving guests an intimate, multi-course gourmet dinner served under a star-filled sky.
And then of course, there’s Uluru, the beating heart of the outback. Sunrise is spectacular here, especially in the low season when fewer people gather at the viewing platforms. Mornings are ideal for guided walks, segway tours, or immersing yourself in the rich A?angu culture with a dot painting workshop. As the sun climbs, travellers take to the road, visit art galleries, or take the opportunity to rest, saving the golden hours for some of the region’s most unforgettable experiences like camel rides across ochre dunes, scenic flights over Kata Tju?a , or exploring the iconic Field of Light installation by renowned artist Bruce Munro. As darkness deepens, experience the mesmerising Wintjiri Wiru drone show, animating ancient stories in light and movement across the desert sky.
Low season in the Red Centre is about finding the rhythm of this place: slow mornings, warm daytime drives, surprising stops, glowing sunsets and nights full of stars.
Out here, the first thing noticed is the space and the thing that never leaves is the sense of wonder it stirs.
To start planning a Red Centre getaway and experience the Best Kept Season, head to www. northernterritory.com/best-kept-season.
Barcelona to Istanbul or vice versa
29 DAYS | 8 COUNTRIES 23 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: MAR-NOV 2026; FEB-MAY, JUL, SEP 2027; MAR-APR, JUL-AUG 2028
From $24,195pp in Veranda Stateroom
From $30,195pp in Penthouse Veranda
Athens to Rome or vice versa
15 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES 11 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: MAR-NOV 2026; MAR-OCT 2027; MAR-AUG 2028
From $12,695pp in Veranda Stateroom From $15,695pp in Penthouse Veranda
Istanbul to Venice or vice versa
15 DAYS | 5 COUNTRIES 12 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: MAR-APR, JUN, AUG, OCT-NOV 2026; JAN-MAY, JUL, SEP-OCT 2027; MAR-APR, AUG 2028
From $12,595pp in Deluxe Veranda
From $14,395pp in Penthouse Veranda
7 Nights
Feb & Mar 2026
1
In-seat wine and dine service and entertainment
Hotel Stays
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, and Amphibious Army Duck tour of the rainforest
‘Reef Magic’ Great Barrier Reef cruise, including: Airconditioned catamaran transfers, 4 hours of reef time, marine life touch tank, underwater observatory, and fish feeding presentations
All Flights & Taxes
Princess with all meals and sightseeing
Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse
Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat
Taste Riverland food and wine
wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout, vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre, stop at Beerenberg Farm, and free time in Hahndorf to explore the historic German settlement
Fully Escorted Kangaroo Island Tours
Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour
Hotel Stays
3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast
1 night four-star hotel stay in Kangaroo Island with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Fully Escorted Barossa Valley Tours
Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine
tastings including: Saltram wine estate, lunch and
2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park
guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, and Flinders Chase National Park
All Flights, Taxes & Transfers
HOLIDAY CODE: CRU2498
By Sahar Foladi
Excited parents and children gathered at the Southern Migrant Refugee Centre to celebrate their HIPPY graduation.
The Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters (HIPPY) is a two-year, homebased early learning and parenting program that empowers parents to help prepare their children for school.
The ceremony saw 23 children graduate on Friday 21 November while congratulated by State MPs Lee Tarlamis and Eden Foster.
SMRC chief executive Jim Mullan said after two years in the program, the graduation was an important celebration of the achievements of the children and their families.
“Every child, every parent and every tutor who is part of SMRC’s HIPPY has worked incredibly hard to get to graduation, and that should be celebrated.
“We’d also like to congratulate everyone who participated this year. The beauty of HIPPY is that it puts tools, training and support in the hands of parents and carers to learn at home with their child, spending more regular quality time together.
“Because of this model, we know that each of the 23 children in the 2025 graduation class will have a head-start at school, with families actively engaged with their education, and ready to shine.”
A proud mother, Sujanthini watched her daughter graduate, saying: “My child loves learning and HIPPY story books. She is ready to start school happily.”
Operating in City of Greater Dandenong since 2011, the HIPPY is an in-home education
program for children aged 3 to 4 experiencing disadvantage.
SMRC’s HIPPY senior coordinator, Tatjana Krneta, also reflects on the impact the program has on the tutors who work in the program with families.
She says for almost 15 years she has seen the life changing impacts of the program on families.
“Many begin their tutor role with no work ex-
perience. Through HIPPY they find their voice, their confidence, and a new path forward, for themselves, their families, and their community.
“It shows that real change starts in the family and spreads throughout the community.”
Across the 25 years it has been running, HIPPY has worked with more than 28,500 families –and now operates at 100 sites around Australia, including 50 focused on First Nations communities.
Funded by the Federal Government’s Department of Social Services and delivered by Southern Migrant Refugee Centre in partnership with the Brotherhood of St. Laurence, HIPPY is a tested program delivering positive change for children, families, and jobs in our community, providing strong returns on Commonwealth funding.
By Sahar Foladi
A group of refugees and advocates has staged a peaceful protest outside Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs assistant minister Julian Hill’s electorate office in Dandenong.
The two-day protest from 19-20 November highlighted the “legacy caseload” of Bridging Visa E (BVE) holders who renew every six months but are awaiting permanent protection in Australia.
Among them are Sara Mashalian, her mother Roghieh and Hussain Kamali who fled Iran to Australia in 2013.
Despite being subjected to what they say were horrific scenes, treatment and conditions at Nauru and Manus Island detention centres, they have led successful lives without any government support.
After 12 years of living in the community, paying taxes, securing successful employment, they are requesting permanent residency to do much more.
According to protestors, Bruce MP Hill didn’t address the crowd or have any discussions about their situation.
A spokesperson for Hill stated more than 20,000 visa holders had been provided permanent protection by the Labor Federal Government.
“Where a genuine refugee is eligible for permanent residency, many of the long-term outstanding cases involve complex identity or character issues.
“However, every case is different, and Ministers cannot comment on individual cases for privacy and legal reasons.”
A majority of Temporary Protection Visa and SHEV holders have been granted Resolution of Status (RoS) visas - a step on the pathway to permanent protection.
But there remains 2853 Bridging E visa holders in Victoria - the majority of which are Sri Lankan, Iranian, Pakistani, Iraqi or stateless backgrounds with smaller numbers of Afghan, Vietnamese and Indian nationals.
Sara Mashalian fled Iran with her mother for their religious conversion from Islam to Christianity.
She has settled in Sydney with her husband Ali, who arrived in 2008 on a skilled visa.
Surrounded by her Australian citizen family, including extended family, Mashalian and her mother are the only ones left without permanent residency.
“The biggest thing I want is to be able to be better than now, have a good sleep.
“I still wish for one good night’s sleep without
any stress of receiving a call from Immigration to say you have to go from here.”
Despite facing barriers to study, she is employed and works as a dental assistant.
“Today I’m here as a woman who has worked as cleaner, worked in supermarkets, restaurants. Without any experience, I work as a dental assistant.
“Even yesterday I requested the immigration department to allow me to study and attain a certificate.
“They told me go to another country if you want to study.”
At a time when Australia’s workforce is in need of employees, Ms Mashalian wanted to study dentistry, a certificate in dental assistant or beautician but her visa conditions don’t allow for that.
“After all these 12 years, what do they want?
“After we have assimilated in the society,
after all these pressures, challenges we went through. I pay tax right now, I work - what else do they want?”
Her husband Ali - a successful managing director of a company - says their issues are more than just being unable to study.
“The time that I spent protesting, coming here, writing letters, emails, getting a lawyer ... if I spent that time on my business, or when I socialise with my friends and colleagues instead of talking about these issues, I could talk about a unique innovation or other matters that the entire of Australia can benefit from.
“Every night she has a nightmare that someone pushes her from a high building.
“She was pregnant but had a miscarriage because of immense mental stress and pressure on her body.
“She is 42 years of age. After a few years it’ll be difficult for her to fall pregnant, that chance
will leave us.
“These are major issues for us, these need to be solved from its roots.”
Mashalian and her mother were declared healthy when detained at Nauru detention centre when they first arrived just like the majority.
However, they were taken to Darwin for an emergency medical treatment as her mother experienced a heart attack.
Scarred for life, her mother’s mental condition, heart health and overall health has worsened under the fear that police officers or security guards will be after her to detain her back in Nauru.
Hussain Kamali operates a successful restaurant and supermarket, all without any loan from the bank due to the uncertainty of his visa. It was only made possible by loans from family and friends.
He has 16 staff working for him, he pays immense GST bills but says he’s not allowed to have a credit card from the bank.
“Even during Covid the government provided payment reliefs to citizens and those with PR but people from our cohort who had small business suffered a lot without support and were forced to close their business.
“I spoke to the ATO that we are taxed just like another citizen but at times of support we aren’t provided any support. They say you differ from everyone else.
“This is not fair and that is very painful.
“This country is truly a country to be loved but unfortunately the government doesn’t see us, and it’s this turning blind eye that is painful.”
Silverton Primary School is nuturing its young students in sustainability through a great vegie garden and Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden program.
The school has had their vegie garden for 20 years, where they grow beetroot, silver beet, a variety of flowers to divert bugs away from their vegies and provide pollination, without any chemicals.
Science teacher Emmanuelle Emile-Blake has
been at the school for 25 years educating students on seeds, plants, cooking the recipes through the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden program, the importance of a healthy diet and a lot more.
“The kids absolutely love it. We cook a lot of multicultural food, the kids are happy to see their mother cook the recipe at home as well as cooked at the school.
“A lot of the kids are very passionate about food because of their multicultural background.
“My focus is on eating very healthy food. That’s part of the program goals - teaching kid
about eating whole food, instead of processed food.”
Together they make delicious things like cannelloni, samosas, beetroot muffins with organic ingredients and vegies straight from the garden.
Students learn about seeds and plantation, receive hands-on experience by growing and harvesting for their meals, maintaining the garden and cooking together in groups.
The overall experience also helps to drive social activity as students sit together to devour their meals.
“A lot of the
have blocked the importance of eating the meals with families or friends,” Ms Emile-Blake says.
The Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden program advocate for the health and wellbeing of children and young people by delivering fun, hands-on and inclusive food education across the country.
For 20 years, it has supported schools, providing free online resources such as recipes, as well as professional development and educational resources.
12 Days of Christmas
Free workshops and entertainment for kids of all ages. Christmas crafts and card making, cookie decorating, face painting and hair braiding, music circles and sing-alongs as well as online DIY tutorials for at-home fun. Meet Santa for photos.
• 2-21 December (market days only) 10am-2pm at Dandenong Market, cnr Clow and Cleeland streets, Dandenong; free event.
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.
2025 Australian Martial Arts
Festival
Traditional Chinese martial arts, with a focus on Tai Chi (Taijiquan) and Kung Fu (Wushu) as forms of intangible cultural heritage. Includes traditional Chinese music and Chinese wellness practices.
• Thursday 27 November 12pm-3pm at Springvale City Hall, 18 Grace Park Avenue, Springvale; free event. Details: 0467597080 or ad@awcc.com.au
Detox Your Home
Highly toxic items, such as chemicals, should never be put in your rubbish bins, poured down the drain, or left out on the nature strip during hard rubbish collections. Detox your Home is a safe, free and easyto-use service to dispose of unwanted, highly toxic household chemicals without harming your health or the environment. The collected items are recycled for recovery and diverted from landfill.-
• Saturday 29 October, 9am-2pm at Gloria Pyke
Monday 16March2026Dandenong
Monday 20April2026Dandenong
Netball Complex, Bennet Street, Dandenong. Free event, register at eventbrite.com.au/e/ detox-your-home-dandenong-registration1642467487469?aff=oddtdtcreator
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.
Stellar Stories for Boys of the Future
Join New York Times bestselling author Francesca Cavallo, live from Italy, in conversation about her book Stellar Stories for Boys of the Future. Joined in person by Dalal Smiley (Wellsprings for Women) and Naveen Jagadeesan (The Man Cave), this discussion dives into how storytelling, men’s circles and youth workshops can help build healthier, more compassionate understandings of masculinity.
• Saturday 29 November, 4pm-6pm at Walker Street Galley and Art Centre, cnr Walker and Robinson streets Dandenong; free event. Bookings essential: greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net. au/#!/event-detail/ev_017aaccf4f7541ccb313b cc8c24ced6e
Australian Nativity Scene
Australia’s largest and most renowned traditional nativity scene, now in its 22nd year, at St. Elizabeth’s Parish. Please note the display will not open on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.
• Monday 1 December - Friday 9 January 10.30am8pm (Strictly by appointments only) at St. Elizabeth’s Parish, 107 Bakers Road, Dandenong North; free event. Details: Wilson Fernandez, 0428 927 110.
VIEW Club
Final meeting of the year will be a Christmas dinner.
• Tuesday 2 December, 6.30pm for a 7pm start at Dandenong RSL; $25pp. Details and bookings: Rosemarie, 0430 443 065.
Heritage Hill tour
Take a free tour of Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens with our expert heritage staff. Includes two historic houses, Laurel Lodge and Benga and the surrounding gardens. Tea and coffee provided. Numbers limited.
• first Thursday of each month (next 4 December), 10am-12pm at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong; $5pp. Bookings required at greaterdandenong-events. bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ev_b2f59a112 335431fb258216bb51fe327
Silver Smithing
Join Nerea for a hands-on workshop where you’ll craft your own dangly metal earrings using basic silver smithing tools and techniques. Note: As hammering can be loud, those sensitive to noise are advised to bring ear protection.
• Thursday 4 December, 6.30pm-8pm at Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free event. Registration required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ ev_ef0262024e894987b92c940acbf37ada
Christmas market
Lexington Gardens Retirement Village Christmas Market Day features homemade Christmas ornaments/gifts, baked goods, jams and relishes, jewellery, knitwear, wooden toys made by our own men’s shed, handstitched items, bags and purses and much more. Some stalls cash-only.
• Friday 5 December 10am-1pm at Lexington Gardens Retirement Village, 114 Westall Road, Springvale; free entry and parking.
Carols in Harmony Square
A wonderful evening of carols-singing and entertainment with a special visit from Santa, free face painting. gingerbread cookie decoration station, photobooth, sausage sizzle and more.
• Friday 5 December, 6pm-9pm at Harmony Square, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free event.
Lying Down in Public Places
Gareth Hart has spent 25 years exploring complex relationships between the body and place - often resulting in striking, immersive and poignant performances in public spaces - including car parks, alleyways, warehouses, park and civic squares.
• Saturday 6 December, 12pm-1pm at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, cnr Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong; free event. Bookings essential at greaterdandenong-events. bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ev_ad89102c1aab4b0099f78a694a0f439
Grand Festival
Melbourne’s biggest celebration of culture, faith and community. Two days filled with 40 food and retail
stalls, over 15 massive rides for all ages, camel and horse riding, face painting, and a huge fireworks display.
• Saturday 6 December and Sunday 7 December, 12.30pm-late at Keysborough Turkish Islamic & Cultural Centre, 396 Greens Rd, Keysborough; free entry.
Chistmas Market Fun Day
Annual festive event for Australian Animal Protection Society. Market stalls, featuring gifts, crafts, and all things festive. Santa Photos from Snoot Photography (book at aaps.org.au/events), food, coffee, kids play centre and find four-legged presents for loved ones.
• Sunday 7 December, 10am-1.30pm at AAPS, 26 Aegean Court, Keysborough; gold coin donation entry.
Children’s Remembrance Service
For many families, attending this service has become a cherished tradition to commemorate their beloved children.
• Sunday 7 December, 5pm-7pm at Bunurong Memorial Park, 790 Frankston-Dandenong Road, Dandenong South; free event. Bookings: smct. org.au/events/childrens-remembrance-service
Helping Hand Day
Free event providing poultry, fresh produce, pantry items, selfcare hampers, BBQ and family-friendly activities to anyone in need. Children’s entertainment, BBQ and refreshments.
The aim is to support local families and provide essentials to those in need. Hosted by We Care Community Services. Friday 12 December 4pm-7pm at 307 Gladstone Road, Dandenong; free event.
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.
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By David Nagel
Trainer Ned McDonald will look to emulate the deedsofhisfatherDarrenwhenhisGroup1winnerAccreditedjumpsfromboxthreeinSaturday night’s$500,000Group1MelbourneCup(515m) atSandownPark.
The McDonald name is synonymous with themostprestigiousraceontheAustraliangreyhound racing calendar, with Darren preparing threewinnersofthecup.
He first saluted with Hallucinate in 2004 beforegoingback-to-backwithShanlynPrinceand Surgeonin2007/08.
A win in the great race would cap off a spectacular month for the 25-year-old trainer after Accredited gave him his first Group1 success in the Hume Cup at The Meadows on Saturday 8 November.
Accredited proved his middle-distance capabilitiesatTheMeadowsthatnight,finishingpowerfullyover600metres.
A drop back to the 515 metres of Saturday night’s Melbourne Cup heat proved no obstacle forAccredited,whobouncedbrilliantlyfrombox one to lead clearly at the first turn; running 5.01 forthefirstsplit.
Fromthereitwasaone-dograce.
“I was standing right behind the box and I saw the two (Aston Bugsy) shift off (the fence) a littlebitlikeIthoughtitwould;whenhepunched throughandfoundthefront,his600-metreform showed that he wasn’t going to get run down,” McDonaldsaidpost-race.
It’snowonwardsandupwardstowardsoneof thegreateventsoftheseason.
“These are the races we want to be in; this is whatwedoitfor;thebuild-upnowfortheweek isjustphenomenalandit’sjustgoingtobeareal goodride,”McDonaldexplained.
“Nothing different, just keep everything
the same; it’s obviously working for him so changenothing.”
Accredited,whoqualifiedfastestin29.07,will facestiffoppositioninthefinalwithCanyaMayhem starting from box two after scorching the trackwitha29.14heatwin.
Trainer David Geall will be looking for his third success in the race, with Spritely Sian starting from box four, while Mark Delbridge will be hoping Paw Zuri can provide him with his second cup win after Yachi Bale saluted in 2022.
Saturday night at Sandown Park promises to beabeauty,withthestayerssharingthespotlight with the running of the time-honoured $75,000 BoldTrease(715m).
Jeff Britton (Valenzuela and Mepunga Lara)
and Kayla Cottrell (Dashing Slay and Fade To Black) are the only two trainers to have runners in both the Melbourne Cup and Bold Trease on thenight.
Herearethefieldsforthetwobigracesonthe card.
$500,000Group1MelbourneCup(515m)
By David Nagel
Thefirstgrandfinalistshavebeendecidedinthe MountainDartLeagueafterathrillingopening tothepost-seasononFridaynight.
Themostentertaininggameofthenighttook place in Division 1, where the top two teamsHigh 5’s and The Chiefs - fought things out to theveryend.
GaryWarnergotHigh5’sacrossthelinelate -winning11-9-afteragreatbattletothefinish line.
Steve Brown produced a best-of-the-night 16-dart leg for High 5’s, while teammate Dean Gibbsthrewoneofthree180sforthematch.
The Pearce boys were outstanding for The Chiefs,withHarrythrowinga180,a110pegand an 18-dart leg, while Jack nailed a 180 and 19dartlegtoboot.
High5’shasnowqualifiedforthegrandfinal in Division 1 while The Chiefs now face Noble Park 1 in the preliminary final; who ended the season of MDDA Bullseyes with a 13-6 victory intheeliminationfinal.
The Bullseyes had plenty to cheer about, withDeanShersonandJJJohnsonbothhitting 180s and Lenny Smith and Steve Carr combiningforan18-dratleg,butNoblewassimplytoo powerful.
Ashley Canfor and The Bandits are through to the Division 2 grand final in the Mountain Dart League. (Supplied: 519548)
Chris Richardson was a star on the night for Noble; hitting a 180, 86 peg and 18-dart leg whilehusbandBillRichardsonnaileda16-dart leg…beginning with 125 and 140 visits at the oche.
SheryllBeasycombinedwithChrisRichardsonfora19-dartlegindoubles.
In Division 2, The Bandits are the first team through to the big dance after a 12-9 win over Spectrum.
Michael Keating was outstanding for The Bandits, hitting a pair of 140s and throwing a fantastic18-dartleg,whilea19-dartertoBernie VaughanalsohelpedTheBanditscause.
Gary Cline and Adam Canfor were also important for the winners while Mick Bellette, Kevin Frost, Chris Riddle and Tyde Preis showedpromisingsignsforSpectrum.
Preis provided one of the highlights of the night;landingamagnificent124pegout.
SpectrumwillplayTheNightTrawlers(TNT) intheDivision2prelimafterTNTscoreda12-8 eliminationfinalwinoverMDDABlackBulls.
Darcy Paterson caressed a 140 for TNT and Mitchel Kirkmoe a 54 peg, while Shane Taylor finishedhisseasoninstyleforBlackBulls.
Taylorhita140andcombinedwithBlakeWii forahigh-quality19-dartlegindoubles.
And The Goodies are now red-hot favourite towintheDivision3titleafterqualifyingforthe grandfinalwithacomprehensive14-4winover Madarras.
Dennis Grose produced some of his best
dartsforTheGoodies;landinga64pegandhittingabest-of-the-match22-dartleginsingles.
Michael Bignell fought hard for Madarras; throwing a 140 in preparation for this week’s preliminaryfinalagainstStingrays. Stingrays proved too good for Vales 3 in the elimination final, winning 14-7 to keep their seasonalive.
HankKollnerhitadouble-20finishforVales, butStingrayshadalltheanswers.
Tony Ciantar hit a 140, Gary Stewart a 40peg,whileEthanDykesproducedahigh-quality 19-dartleg.
Dykeshadvisitsof85,100,55,80,65and112 before finishing off his work with a double-two pegout.
FINALSFIXTURE–WEEK2
• Friday28November
• ElliottRoad,Dandenong PRELIMINARYFINAL
• DIVISION1:TheChiefsvNoblePark1
• DIVISION2:SpectrumvTheNightTrawlers
• DIVISION3:MadarrasvStingrays
GRANDFINALQUALIFIED
• DIVISION1:High5’s
• DIVISION2:TheBandits
• DIVISION3:TheGoodies
By Jonty Ralphsmith
Casey South Melbourne has bounced back from consecutive losses beating near-neighbour Dandenongbyfivewicketswith39ballstospare.
DandenongsetCasey169,withRyanHammel (37), Matthew Wilson (32) and Vishwa Ramkumar (27) all getting starts, but the innings never really got going as the Swans were able to make regularbreakthroughsatShepleyOval.
PlayinghissecondFirstXIgameoftheseason, EvanAllwaytookthreewickets,asdidFinlayGordonwiththepairbowlingwellinpartnership.
Panthers opening bowler Noah Hurley got
both openers , before a stabilising partnership betweenJacksonIsakkaandYashPednekar.
RamkumarandskipperBrettForsyth,though, kept their side in it by reducing Dandenong to 4/106, before an unbeaten 69 to Daud Malik broke the back of Dandenong’s probing bowling attack.
In his 300th game of Vic Premier Cricket, James Nanopoulos bowled a frugal spell of 0/24 off 10 overs and was run out for six batting at numbereight.
A 147-run opening partnership between Tom MorrisonandVenukHemichandraliftedDandenong’sSecondXIsideto5/274,whichproved34
runstoogoodforthevisitors.
Six of Dandenong’s eight bowlers used got a wicket in Casey’s run chase, with number three LennyWiltontopscoringfortheSwanswith78.
A 168-run second-wicket partnership between Rohan Chandel (80) and Liam Antonello (86) guided Dandenong to a comfortable sevenwicketvictorychasingCasey’s206intheThirdXI game.
Kartikay Sharma starred in Dandenong’s FourthXIgame,clattering78runsoffjust63balls tohelpthePanthersset232,beforehis6/24comingonaftertheopeningbowlersputpressureon Caseyandsealedan85-runwin.
By Blair Burns
The Bears and the Bucks remain the only two unbeaten sides after five rounds of DDCA Turf 1 and Berwick’s latest performance showed exactly why they’re feared among the competition.
Their five-wicket win over Dandenong West on Saturday, chasing 296 with just nine balls to spare, was one of the most polished, composed batting displays of the season.
It didn’t start smoothly for the Bears, as Jarryd Wills (8) chipped one to mid-on off Dinesh Kulasekara and fellow opener Lachlan Brown, who had looked fluent early, was caught behind off the bowling of Joel Zietsman.
At 2/55, the Bulls needed stability, and they found it in the form of a match-defining partnership.
What followed was an outstanding 181-run stand between Jake Hancock and skipper Michael Wallace, a partnership that completely shifted the momentum.
Hancock’s temperament was all class as he patiently occupied the crease, and Wallace matched him with calmness and precision.
With wickets in hand heading into the final 10 overs, Berwick controlled the chase masterfully.
Wallacefellfor99,trappedLBWbyMalingaBandara, and the experienced spinner then removed Vinuda Liyanage (13) and Jordan Cleland (22).
But not before Cleland had landed a devastating blow, smashing Bandara for six the previous ball when 10 were required off 14, flipping the pressure back onto the bowlers.
Hancock remained the anchor throughout, reaching 109 not out and finishing the match with a flick off the pads for four in the 79th over, scoring the winning runs - his tally of 232 runs at 116 this season now leads the competition.
The win moves Berwick to a perfect 4–0 and sets up a blockbuster top-of-the-table clash with the Bucks this weekend – a match that already feels like a finals preview.
In other games, Springvale South produced
something similar, chasing down Beaconsfield’s 282 with only 11 balls left and two wickets in hand.
Tiger trio Jake Cronin, Mitch Tielen and Jack Steel all scored half-centuries last week, giving them a solid platform, but the Bloods’ trademark resilience again came to the fore.
Ryan Quirk (61) and Mitch Forsyth (27) opened with 80 before Tielen struck, and Ashan Walgamage (4/56) caused a major stumble, taking three quick wickets including Quirk and Chaturanga De Silva in the same over.
At 4/136, Beaconsfield were on top, but Jordan Wyatt (58) and Dasun Opanayaka (43) rebuilt patiently, with Christopher Diston’s composed 28
pushing the Bloods into a winning position.
Nicholas Boland (27 not out), keeping the strike at every opportunity, sealed a clutch two-wicket win late in the day’s play.
Buckley Ridges inflicted Hallam Kalora Park’s second outright loss of the summer after dominating from the outset.
A first innings score of 73 from Hallam Kalora Park left them playing catch-up, as the Bucks posted 174 in reply.
The Hawks dug in during the second innings to score 159 with Austin Fardell’s fighting half-century putting some respectability on the performance.
With only 58 runs to get and about 20 overs to bat, Buckley Ridges’ most damaging batter Dale Tormey belted the leather around to score 41 not out off 30 balls, which included eight fours (32 of his runs) – the Bucks winning outright.
Narre South, meanwhile, won by an innings and 85 runs over Parkmore after Oshadha Ariyadasa’s breathtaking 114 off 70 the week prior set the tone. Parkmore managed just 126 and 75, with captain Niranjen Kumar (41 and 32) the lone performer. With five rounds gone, the Pirates look in significant danger of slipping back to Turf 2 unless something changes quickly.
By Blair Burns
All eyes were on the HSD–Parkfield clash in Turf 2, and it delivered, with the Blues winning in a reverse outright result.
HSD batted first on day one and were rolled for 78, Jude Owen (22) one of only three to reach double figures.
Parkfield looked comfortable at 1/38 in reply but collapsed dramatically, losing 7/18 to be all out for 76 and handing HSD a two-run firstinnings win thanks to late wickets from Brett Hookey.
HSD were 2/27 at stumps and soon slumped to 4/30 on day two as the Parkfield Reserve pitch continued to misbehave.
After his first-innings five-wicket haul, Madusha Croos tore through the Cobras again, taking 4/23 and finishing with 9/50 for the match.
Despite 42 from Anuda Akmeemana, HSD was dismissed for 106, leaving Parkfield 109 to chase for the reverse outright.
The chase was tight throughout as HSD took wickets regularly, leaving the Blues in trouble at 6/73 with time running out.
Sam Beadsworth (33) was the only batter to
look settled before falling, while the equation tightened further when Shane Cooray (19) was run out with only three runs required.
But Sahan Jayawardana (15 not out) hit the winning boundary as Parkfield scraped home by three wickets.
Elsewhere, an unbeaten century from Krishan Alang (100 not out) steered Coomoora past Silverton’s 209 with five wickets in hand, backing up their strong position at 2/74 from day one.
Jarrod Munday (40) continued his excellent season, moving to 245 runs from four matches, while Kalapu Gamage (3/27) and Varinder Kirk (2/68) were Silverton’s best.
North Dandenong comfortably chased Cranbourne’s 165 and piled on 316 in its second innings, before Cranbourne closed out day two at 3/99.
Lyndale was bowled out for 110 in their first innings and lost on first innings to Narre Warren, who posted 131.
Lyndale’s declaration at 7/208 on day two offered a chance at an outright, but they managed only six wickets as Narre Warren held firm to avoid defeat.
By David Nagel
Noble Park is poised to consolidate its top-four position in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association (VSDCA) after a strong opening day against Mt Waverley at home on Saturday.
Noble consistently took wickets at the right time, with three of Mt Waverley’s top-order making it into the twenties; but not progressing to thirty.
Nathan Pruscino (29), Angus Robbins (25) and Zac Gicciardo (20) all threatened to cause some damage to the home side, but Noble had all the answers.
Superstar Sahan Perera (4/46) led the way for the home side, helping to restrict the visitors to 174, with solid support from openers Yehan Gu-
nasingha (3/15) and Jermaine Levy (2/47).
The home side is still very well placed to claim victory on day two, however, the loss of Nischaya Thapa (1) during a tricky nine-over spell at the end of the day with make things a little more difficult.
Noble has 80 overs and nine wickets in hand to chase down a moderate total.
Meanwhile, Endeavour Hills (1/22) chased leather for the majority of day one at home against Melton (282).
Sydney Pargeter Reserve became a tough place to be for the home side, with Ben MacRae (100) and Jason Hibbert (133) batting Melton into a position of power.
MacRae and Hibbert shared a monster part-
nership for the second wicket before Tallha Ahmed (6/43) and Jasmeet Singh (3/56) began a strong response from Endeavour Hills.
MacRae and Hibbert were the only players to score more than 15 runs as Ahmed and Singh bowled their team back to prominence.
Endeavour Hills had seven overs to face at the conclusion of day one, with Damien Ravu (15) looking good before falling to Brad Jones (1/4).
The home side faces a tough challenge heading into day two; chasing its third win for the season.
Sahan Perera sends one down during his fourwicket spell for Noble Park on Saturday. (Gary Sissons: 519204)
