Dandenong Star Journal - 10th March 2026

Growing pains

Demolition is set to start at Dandenong’s iconic Little India precinct as part of a $600 million revitalisation.

However, trader Steve Khan, pictured, says many existing shops had moved and were unlikely to be part of the area’s bold future.

More on the story, turn to page 4

Mourning rebuke

A Dandenong mosque has implored for the restoration of a $670,000 grant, which was cancelled by the Federal Government after the centre mourned the death of Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Taha Association Centre bore heavy national criticism for the mourning service for the leader, who was assassinated during the escalating conflict between United States/Israel and Iran.

On 4 March, Multicultural Affairs Minister

Anne Aly announced the grant’s cancellation due to “social cohesion concerns”.

In a statement last week, Taha described the service as a “sincere religious gathering”

“It was an act of faith. It was not political and it should not be framed as such.”

Its patrons are largely the Afghan-Australian and Hazara community who themselves had fled Afghanistan out of fear of persecution by the Taliban.

“Families amongst us have lost dozens of loved ones to the very extremism we are now being associated with.”

Bruce MP and Multicultural Affairs assistant minister Julian Hill, who had pledged the funding in last year’s federal election, said mourning “this tyrant” was “offensive to the majority of Australians”

“There have always been limits to cultural expression in Australia, and religious practice does not justify all actions.

“The Minister’s decision to not proceed with the commitment in light of social cohesion concerns is really difficult for the Association but justified in the circumstances.”

Last week, the Victorian Government announced it was investigating if $149,380 of state funding to Taha in 2022 was appropriately spent.

More on the story, turn to page 3

Market future vision

A new $1 billion, 20-year vision for Dandenong Market and its surrounds has been unveiled, including an urban plaza, apartment towers and better connection with Palm Plaza and Dandenong Square.

Greater Dandenong Council has released its draft Dandenong Market Precinct that aims for about 1000 new dwellings within a “high-quality public realm” that’s “easier to access and safer to move around”

“Underutilized” at-grade car parks would be transformed – including mixed-use apartment towers on the car park next to Pillars of Freedom.

The ground-level car park at Dandenong Market will feature a landscaped urban plaza and expanded Pioneers Park.

Car parking will instead move into basements and within buildings, according to the draft plan. Palm Plaza would be upgraded and connected to Dandenong Market with a new pedestrianized ‘eat street’

New apartments would also be built off Stuart, King and Sleeth streets, opposite Pioneers Park and next to the proposed Dandenong Community Hub.

For the Market itself, the plan proposes a ‘gateway entrance’ and more connection to Clow and Cleeland streets, a market ‘square’ as well as exploring “potential upper level uses”

It proposes blend of indoor and outdoor spac-

es, a “landmark roof” , natural light and “opportunities for branding”

The council developed the plan with “technical experts” and “key stakeholders” to ensure it was “locally grounded” and “informed by best-practice design”

Dandenong Market Board chair Donna McMaster said it drew on ideas from markets across Melbourne and the world while maintaining the 159-year-old Dandenong Market’s character.

“It sets out principles for future opportunities, around sustainability, fit-for-purpose facilities

and better movement around and through the precinct.

“It looks at underutilised space and proposes how they might contribute to a more vibrant precinct, with improved amenity for the community.”

Mayor Sophie Tan said the market was central to the plan as the “heart of our community – a place of culture, connection and commerce”

“Foodies come from far and wide hunting for exotic ingredients and sticking around for bargains in the Bazaar and a snack at one of many fantastic outlets. L

“Locals get fresh, health food at affordable prices – and we want to make sure all of this continues for generations to come.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to imagine what this precinct could be in the future, and we want our community to lead that conversation.”

Public feedback is now open before the Council considers the final Precinct Plan this year.

Shoppers, traders, visitors and residents are invited to comment at:

• Pop-ups at the Dandenong Market on 7 and 10 March between 11am-1pm

• Drop-in sessions at Council’s Civic Centre on 13 March, 25 March and 2 April between 1-2pm;

• online at yoursay.greaterdandenong.vic.gov. au/dandenong-market-precinct-plan

Footy test for new routes

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

The Metro Tunnel’s ‘Big Switch’ is set for a test as South East footy fans converge on Marvel Stadium and the MCG for AFL’s opening round.

Extra train services are being provided on the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines for seven games in Melbourne between 8-15 March.

But South East commuters face a “particular challenge”, given their trains no longer directly connect to Richmond and Southern Cross stations, says the Public Transport Users Association.

PTUA spokesperson Daniel Bowen said while there were benefits to the Metro Tunnel, many commuters were still getting used to the new travel patterns and routes, he said.

“The key is for authorities to provide good information, plenty of staff to help, and have plenty of trains running.”

The Department of Transport and Planning advises passengers to change trains at Caulfield or Town Hall, or to walk from Town Hall to the MCG.

To get to Marvel Stadium, passengers should change at State Library or Town Hall to catch a train to Southern Cross.

Bowen warned there are some gaps in the extra services – up to 20 minutes waits for trains from Jolimont to Flinders Street after the MCG match between Melbourne and St Kilda on Sunday 15 March.

Some of the extra trains to Cranbourne/Pakenham will start at Malvern rather than Town Hall, he said.

“Even without football, Moomba and the Grand Prix, Melbourne is increasingly busy on the weekends and evenings.

“We hope Metro and the Government are watching this weekend closely and will continue to improve Melbourne’s public transport services to cut waiting times, add capacity, and ensure people can get around quickly and efficiently.”

A female driver has died in a crash on Police Road in Mulgrave on 4 March.

Police say a car reportedly left the road and crashed into a tree about 3.40pm.

A child in the back seat of the car was uninjured, but the driver could not be revived by emergency services at the scene. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Any information or footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

Pleas for funds to return

By Sahar Foladi

The Dandenong-based Taha Association Centre is calling for the restoration of its $670,000 grant, which was cancelled by the Federal Government after the centre mourned the death of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The grant for facility upgrades and community activities was promised by Bruce MP Julian Hill, assistant minister for citizenship and multicultural affairs, during last year’s election campaign.

On 4 March, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Anne Aly announced the cancellation citing “social cohesion concerns” after her department reviewed the application.

“Like all governments, we do give grants to community organisations, whether they be religious organisations, for mosques, temples, for sporting groups, but we take seriously our expectation that the activities of those organisations and the activities of those groups are conducted within the rule of law and within the expectations of taxpayers and the standards that taxpayers expect,” Dr Aly said.

This unfolds after Taha, as well as other mosques in the south east, held memorial services mourning the assassinated Ayatollah Khamenei, regarded as a leading influential leader in the Islamic world, especially for Shia Muslims, but a “brutal dictator” and sponsor of terrorism by others.

Taha Association Centre put out a media release calling on media outlets, federal parliamentarians and public commentators to “immediately retract inaccurate statements” made about the organisation and broader Shia community.

They also requested the Federal Government review their grant cancellation decision, based on “facts rather than narrative”

“What is not in dispute is that his decision was made on the basis of an unchecked narrativewithout consultation with our organisation, our leadership or our community.”

The statement says their “sincere religious gathering” mourning service was subjected to media reporting and parliamentarian commentary that had “fundamentally misrepresented” the nature of their gathering.

“The service marked the passing of a significant religious figure who, for Shia Muslims globally, holds a weight broadly comparable to the loss of a Pope for Catholics.

“It was act of faith. It was not political and it should not be framed as such.

“Our practises are purely spiritual and commemorative in nature.

“We gather to mourn, to pray and support one another in grief -as communities of faith have done for centuries.”

The Centre asked for its members’ grief to be recognised as grief, saying the Shia mourning practises are 1400 years old.

It held fears for a rise in Islamophobia and for the physical safety of its members and community, it stated.

The Taha Centre was built by the community, delivering services such as funerals, cross-cultural volunteering, community food drives to support the wider community regardless of faith or background, it stated.

Its patrons are largely the Afghan-Australian and Hazara community who themselves had fled Afghanistan out of fear of persecution or their Shia religious beliefs and ethnicity by the Taliban.

“Families amongst us have lost dozens of loved ones to the very extremism we are now being associated with.

“For those people, the current media and parliamentary narrative is not merely offensive - it is

retraumatising.”

It also stated it has no affiliation with any foreign government, foreign political party or any political movement, denouncing extremism and that the community stands firmly against all wars and violence.

Bruce MP Julian Hill, who said “mourning this tyrant (Khamenei)” was “offensive to the majority of Australians” , said he’d seek a meeting with Taha management, “about the way forward in support of the community and bringing people together.”

“The TAHA Humanity Association have stated their event was intended as solely religious in nature and I conveyed the broader community’s concerns about Khamenei.

“There have always been limits to cultural expression in Australia, and religious practice does not justify all actions.

“The Minister’s decision to not proceed with the commitment in light of social cohesion concerns is really difficult for the Association but justified in the circumstances.”

He slammed the Liberal Opposition who he said had “stupidly tried to pretend” his $670,000 pledge to Taha was “secret” , when it was “widely publicised” on social media posts by Taha and a press release on Hill’s campaign website.

“The Government’s election commitment was matched by the previous Liberal Candidate who bizarrely showed up one night and offered double the amount of funding but curiously seemed not to have issued a press release.”

Taha Centre confirmed the Liberal Party candidate Zahid Safi’s office reached out twice with an election promise in last year’s federal election. It said its management turned down the offer, opting to support the ALP.

Greater Dandenong councillor, Rhonda Garad has strongly opposed the Government’s with-

drawal of funding, labelling it as a “shocking act of religious discrimination.”

“Punishing a community for the ‘crime’ of mourning is a shocking act of religious discrimination.

“Will we now punish Buddhists for mourning the Dalai Lama, or Catholics for mourning the Pope?

“Julian Hill praised this community when he was asking for their votes — now he’s thrown them under the bus when his political career is threatened.”

Meanwhile, Victoria’s Multicultural Affairs Minister Ingrid Stitt told Parliament that her department was investigating whether $149,380 of state funding to Taha’s facility in 2022 was used “appropriately”

She said the Government recently implemented a “social cohesion” commitment for “our grants going forward”

Opposition multicultural affairs spokesperson Evan Mulholland said “Labor’s desperate use of taxpayer funds to buy multicultural votes has robbed them of a moral compass”

“Not a single cent of public money should go to those who sympathise with regimes that murder protesters, deny women education rights and firebomb synagogues in Victoria.

“Mourning the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is sickening. It should be condemned by all sides of politics.”

Australian Iranian Society of Victoria vice-president Kambiz Razmara says Australians have the right to exercise their freedom of association and grief as they see fit.

“I dare question the morality and validity of people who stood there, (in memorial services) disregarding the sufferings of Iranians.

“They should’ve considered their actions

Bruce MP Hill responds to TAHA furore

Bruce MP and Assistant Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs Minister JULIAN HILL has come under fire for his 2025 election funding pledge to Taha Humanity Association (Taha Association Centre). The Federal Government this month withdrew $625,000 funding in response to Taha hosting a recent event to mourn the death of Iran’s leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

This is Mr Hill’s statement in full: “Ayatollah Khamenei was a brutal dictator responsible for the death of untold thousands of his own citizens over nearly four decades. His regime and the IGRC which he oversaw orchestrated terrorist attacks and violence across the region and also here in Australia.

Events in Australia held over recent days mourning this tyrant are offensive to the majority of Australians.

The IRGC which Khamenei oversaw are listed as a state sponsor of terror in Australia.

The TAHA Humanity Association have stated their event was intended as solely religious in nature and I conveyed the broader community’s concerns about Khomeini. There have always been limits to cultural expression in Australia, and religious practice does not justify all actions.

The majority of people who attend TAHA Humanity Association have fled war, persecution and violence and are deeply grateful to

be in Australia and want to build new lives in peace and be part of the Australian community.

The election commitment was to support the centre’s community work including youth, women, food relief and language learning, not religious activities.

The commitment was not ‘secret’ as the Liberals have stupidly tried to pretend - it was publicly announced including via widely publicised social media posts by the TAHA Humanity Association and by a press release published on my campaign website.

The Government’s election commitment was matched by the previous Liberal candidate

more carefully, it was most unwise to say the least.

“For people not to acknowledge the suffering of millions under this regime is irresponsible of Muslims, with all due respect to my fellow Muslims.”

Speaking on the grant cancellation he says, “I think it’s within the framework of the law, people should react and act.”

Mr Razmara defends the large celebrations by the Iranian diaspora across the country, saying the celebrations were an “emotional connection to the sufferings.”

“No death is ever celebrated.

“They are celebrating the hope for a new future and he (Ayatollah Khamenei) was the obstacle, he was the leadership of the Iranian government.”

Victoria Police is also on alert since the ongoing incidents and conflicts in the Middle East.

A spokesperson said there had been no reports of incidents or threats in Victoria.

“Victoria Police retains close communications with all communities who have a strong interest in the events that are unfolding.

“We are mindful of the potential for escalating tension including at places of worship and local police have been briefed to respond accordingly.

“Victoria Police will continue to work with our partner agencies across Government and community to monitor the situation.”

Safety concerns for mosque attendees and its communities are high, especially after a 20-yearold WA man, Jayson Joseph Michaels, allegedly detailed his intentions to attack mosques in WA, Police Headquarters and WA Parliament House. He was charged with an act in preparation for, or planning terrorist act by the Western Australia Joint Counter Terrorism Team. Australian Federal Police declined to comment.

who bizarrely showed up one night and offered double the amount of funding but curiously seemed not to have issued a press release.

The Minister’s decision to not proceed with the commitment in light of social cohesion concerns is really difficult for the Association but justified in the circumstances. When I’m back in Melbourne I’ll seek a meeting with the TAHA Humanity Association leadership to talk further about the way forward in support of the community and bringing people together. While conversations about these issues in modern Australia can be difficult it’s important that leaders have honest, respectful dialogue.”

Little India future ‘uncertain’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Dandenong’s Little India traders say their future is perilous, with a large swathe of vacant shops in Foster Street set for demolition for the first stage of a $600 million redevelopment.

Traditionally one of the busiest trading periods, Ramadan this year has been “dead” quiet in the iconic three-decade-old retail precinct.

As for the future, traders think things will get worse as demolitions start mid-year.

And they aren’t sure if they will be a part of Little India’s new proposed home - a laneway between Halpin Way and Foster Street, as part of a “village” of apartment and retail towers.

Steve Khan, who has been one of Little India’s founding traders since the 1990s, fears that the new laneway “will never have that Indian feel”

“Regrettably the future of Little India looks bleak, it seems only a symbolic name with hardly any Indian traders will be left.

“Most shops will be occupied by other communities.

“Existing traders are reluctant to commit as most are unsure of the rent – hence it is more like a wait-and-watch policy.”

Khan has recently closed his cafe in Mason Street, after a long, bitter dispute with Development Victoria over an outdoor cooking facility.

He says that customers will shun the precinct as demolitions, road blocks, diversions and detours begin.

“Business is virtually dead in Little India at present with the likelihood of becoming worse once the demolition begins.

“Many traders who have moved out of this area will never come back as they would be well-settled in two or three years time.”

Bombay Fashions owner Sajjad ur Rehman – a former computer science analyst in Pakistan – has survived and reinvented himself as a clothing merchant since 1990.

His shop is up the street from the first stage of demolitions – it may be years before the wrecking ball visits him.

“We’ll look at what happens after that.”

More than a decade ago, Rehman joined other traders who fought for Little India’s survival after Revitalising Central Dandenong works sent customers away in droves.

As a result of the campaign, traders still pay discounted rent from Development Victoria. He’s not sure if he can absorb higher rent.

“I think it will be difficult for us to survive as Little India. I’m very uncertain about the future.”

Meanwhile, a nearby young business owner is hopeful that redevelopment will turn things around.

“We are hoping it brings more foot traffic and

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makes it more vibrant,” he says.

“I’m not sure if we’ll move into the laneway –I haven’t thought that far ahead.”

During the redevelopment works, he said “people might be deterred” particularly by the loss of parking.

“But we’ll just keep working hard and trying to make a living.”

Purabi Das of Boutique Apparels and Indian Ethnic Wear says the Ramadan period has been “dead” – and is expecting worse as demolitions start.

She’s been trading in Little India for 11 years and will stay till demolition.

“Whether we stay after that, it depends how

Cocaine trafficker sprung by hotel cleaner

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A 20-year-old Narre Warren man has been jailed for at least two years after a cleaner spotted cash and a large stash of cocaine in his hotel room.

Jawid Akhtarzada pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to trafficking in a commercial quantity, dealing with suspected proceeds of crime and possessing a prohibited weapon.

On 13 June last year, the cleaner at the Atura Hotel in Eumemmerring tipped off hotel management, who in turn notified police.

Police attended the room that afternoon, saw drugs on a desk and arrested Akhtarzada.

They seized white powder in block and powder form in bags from the room, totalling 538.7 grams – or 300.8 grams in pure cocaine.

It equated to just over the commercial trafficking threshold.

Two phones in Akhtarzada’s room, another two in his Hilux car, as well as ziplock bags, scales and $3703 cash were also seized.

In sentencing on 20 February, Judge Rosemary Carlin noted that the trafficking was planned, premeditated and “motivated by greed”

“As much as your offending was brazen it was also unsophisticated in that you booked the room in your own name and left the drugs and cash out in full view.”

She stated the “devastating effect of illicit drugs on our community is well known and does not need elaboration”

Born in Afghanistan, Akhtarzada was unemployed and living in the family home at the time.

cocaine trafficker. (Gary Sissons: 260279)

A family referee described him as a “gentle, caring and loving young man” who desired to help the less fortunate.

He reported using ‘party drugs’ socially, every few months without addiction or abuse.

A psychologist reported he may have significant mental impairment due to an intellectual disability.

Judge Carlin also noted the man was just 19 at the time of offending, his guilty plea, no prior convictions and his regret.

“But I am not convinced you truly understand or acknowledge the societal harm caused by offending such as yours.”

There was a need to deter others tempted by the lucrative drug trade, but also to help rehabilitate young offenders, she stated.

Akhtarzada was jailed for three years and four months, with a two-year non-parole period.

His term includes 252 days in pre-sentence detention.

much the rent goes up.”

The developer Capital Alliance’s chief executive Mohan Du told Star News last year that “we don’t want to see Little India disappear” but that “it won’t be exclusively Indian traders”

Du’s vision is for a “new, modern and safe” precinct that’s active with office workers and businesses, not just “towers and towers of housing”

His plan is to bring in “mini-majors” such as a supermarket chain to attract more shoppers, as well as family-friendly entertainment activities.

Last month, the Department of Transport and Planning approved a permit for the $100

million first stage of Little India’s redevelopment. It comprises a “village of buildings” with 325 dwellings, three widely-separated towers up to 60 metres tall, a child care centre and a Little India laneway.

All properties on the 8.8 hectare site at 139157 Thomas Street (abutting Foster and Mason streets and Halpin Way) are expected to be demolished by mid-2026.

The entire project is planned to unfurl over the next 16 years – including potentially a hotel/ conference centre, a supermarket, food hall and community space, cinema and hospital.

Violent home invasion

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

An armed, homeless man who stormed into a Dandenong hotel room to bash a stranger after a brief spat is facing automatic deportation.

James Moa, 31, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to home invasion and intentionally causing injury.

A “disinhibited” Moa had reportedly imbibed 48 cans of premixed bourbon, as well as cannabis, cocaine and ice in the lead-up to the assault.

He was in the rear of the yard of the ex-Dandenong fire station about 3.40am of 31 May 2024.

The victim spotted him from a balcony at the next-door Comfort Inn, and an argument ensued.

Armed with a broken bottle, Moa scaled the dividing wall and ran towards the victim’s room.

Initially he stood outside the wrong room but “unluckily for your victim, but perhaps luckily for his neighbour, (the victim) chose that moment to come outside” , sentencing judge Michael Tinney said on 24 February.

An armed Moa returned with a man with a “larger frame”. They kicked in the door, and beat the victim to the head during the 90-second visitation.

“Yours was a confrontational home invasion. You entered intending to assault,” the judge said.

The victim was left bleeding from large lacerations and disorientated.

At hospital, he refused stitches – and later

declined to make a victim impact statement.

“It was obviously a frightening entry with significant enough physical violence inflicted upon him in his own home,” Judge Tinney said.

“It is notorious that this style of entry leads to a sense of insecurity in the minds of those whose homes or properties are entered.”

In a police interview, Moa - a former Cranbourne high school student - denied the assault and even being in the room. He also said he rarely drank.

However Moa later reported drinking a “prodigious” 48 cans of premixed whisky or bourbon cans a day at the time, as well as using cannabis, ice and cocaine.

“This offending was not intricately planned and no doubt was committed whilst disinhibited by alcohol and drugs.

“You do have a long term issue with a variety of illegal substances and alcohol and you will need to conquer those addictions.”

Judge Tinney noted Moa’s guilty plea, “some remorse” , disadvantaged upbringing, brief criminal history, and the risk of being deported to his New Zealand homeland. He had “relatively good” rehabilitation prospects.

The judge said the non-citizen was set to have his visa automatically cancelled by Australian authorities – given Moa would be jailed for more than 12 months.

Moa was jailed for three years and eight months in jail, with a 26-month non-parole period. His term included 257 days in pre-sentence detention.

New recognition for legends

A pair of late Living Treasures may be immortalised in new street names in Dandenong.

Community leaders Pat Dow and Merle Mitchell AM have inspired the names Dow Court and Merle Parade, as part of a proposal by Greater Dandenong Council.

The two streets will be created with the closure of sections of Cheltenham Road and Webster Street, as part of a level crossing removal project.

Greater Dandenong mayor Sophie Tan said it was important to recognise two people who “built the heart of our community”

“Pat and Merle were extraordinary women whose lifelong commitment to community helped shape the Greater Dandenong we know today.

“Naming these roads in their honour ensures their legacy continues to guide and inspire future generations.

“This proposal is about more than naming roads – it’s about acknowledging the service, compassion and leadership that Pat and Merle gave so generously.”

Dow was a prodigious volunteer for decades, serving Dandenong Hospital Auxiliary, Red Cross and meals on wheels.

She was part of a 10-year parents’ campaign to raise money to build 12th Dandenong North Scout Hall and a long-time supporter of Dandenong Festival of Music and Art for Youth.

In a statement, Dow’s sons Chris, Mike and Greg Dow said their family was honoured by the proposed “celebration of Mum”

“Pat devoted her life to supporting and uplifting others, and she cared deeply about the Dandenong community.

“Knowing her legacy will be recognised in this way means a great deal to us.

“We’re proud of everything she achieved, and we know she would have been truly touched by this tribute.”

Mitchell was a local and national trailblazer for social justice, community cohesion and diversity.

She was the CEO of the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS), an advocate of the Council of the Ageing and founder of Springvale Com-

munity Aid and Advice Bureau (SCAAB).

From the 1970s, through SCAAB she was an active part of the remarkable Springvale community effort to befriend and support 30,000 refugees at the Enterprise hostel.

In 2019, Ms Mitchell’s testimony about living in aged care blazed into national headlines at a national Royal Commission.

Mitchell’s son Rick said his mother spent her childhood living in Dandenong, mostly in Foster Street, just around the corner from the proposed Merle Parade.

“For 55 years she lived in Springvale and dedicated her working life to supporting and broadening the multicultural Greater Dandenong community she loved.

“We know she would have been absolutely delighted and honoured that a street be named after her.”

Dow and Mitchell were named as Greater Dandenong Living Treasures in their latter years.

As part of the council naming proposal, Dow Court will be formed from the closure of Webster Street at the railway line.

Merle Parade would be a discontinued section between Foster Street and Cheltenham Road.

Meanwhile, Cheltenham Road will be diverted under the rail line and extended to Lonsdale Street.

As the responsible naming authority for local roads, the City of Greater Dandenong is working with the Victorian Government’s Department of Transport and Planning and LXRP to progress the proposals.

The proposed road names are open for public feedback until 13 March.

Details: yoursay.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ renaming-parts-webster-street-dandenong

Calls to relieve ATO’s ‘unaffordable’ interest charges

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A South East community-support agency has welcomed a call for the Australian Taxation Office to relieve the steep interest charged on tax debts.

South East Community Links has supported clients with a staggering total of $3.7 million in ATO-related debt since July 2024.

This includes more than $1.3 million of ATO debt so far in the 2025-’26 financial year.

Currently, tax law requires interest to be applied and to compound daily, even while taxpayers make repayments under approved plans.

“We’re seeing people working two or three jobs who are still falling behind because interest charges grow faster than they can repay,” SECL financial wellbeing head Rachna Madaan Bowman said.

Ms Bowman says the Tax Ombudsman’s call for interest-free payment plans and fairer processes would “make a real difference for people who are genuinely trying to stay on track”

In a review this month, the Tax Ombudsman Ruth Owen urged the ATO to offer better relief

for indebted taxpayers “trying to do the right thing”

“The ATO’s decision-making isn’t meeting community expectations.

“In particular, it is impacting too harshly on some taxpayers trying to do the right thing in repaying their tax debts.

“Interest can make small debts grow to unaffordable levels very quickly and, for some taxpayers, the interest can become greater than the original debt, making full repayment near impossible.

“We have seen many cases where the interest compounds to levels grossly disproportionate to the principal debt and the taxpayer’s ability to pay,”

Ms Owen recommended that the ATO agreed to up-front, interest-free payment plans for eligible taxpayers.

“The interest does not then accumulate further while taxpayers take reasonable steps to repay their debts; it helps taxpayers get back on track and discharges the tax debt more quickly for the ATO.”

General interest charges (GIC) of 10.65 per cent are imposed when taxes are not paid on time.

Taxpayers with a debt can request a reduction or refund of interest, formally called a ‘remission,’ by asking the ATO and providing supporting information.

Of the $55 billion in uncontested tax owed to the Commonwealth Government, 18 per cent is made up of interest applied to the debt.

Between 2019 and 2025, the balance of GIC owed increased 185 per cent, outpacing the 94 per cent increase in uncontested tax debt.

The Tax Ombudsman also highlighted the ATO’s inconsistent decision-making on interest charges, vague guidance on rights to review and poor communications.

The ATO has agreed to all the Tax Ombudsman’s recommendations.

Ms Owen welcomed recent changes made by the ATO to address inconsistency in general interest charge (GIC) remission decisions and to improve its guidance to taxpayers and tax practitioners.

Cultural DNA of ownership

By Dya Singh and Dr Jamel Kaur Singh

After last week’s column on Pauline Hanson, a familiar refrain surfaced again:

“Migrants are buying up Australia” and killing the “Castle” dream!

It’s a powerful line.

It taps into something primal.

Land.

Home.

Security.

But before we react - let’s step back.

Because property in Australia is not just an asset class.

It is cultural mythology.

For many Australians, home ownership represents stability, adulthood and achievement.

The “Great Australian Dream” is not just a house with a backyard - it is psychological reassurance.

But here’s what often gets missed: for many migrant families, property is not about greed. It is about survival memory.

When you come from countries where governments have fallen, currencies have collapsed, property rights were uncertain, or conflict displaced families - land equals control.

Not control over others.

LOOKING BACK

100 years ago

11 March 1926

Dandenong Band

The Dandenong Band mustered in good strength for a recital in the park on Sunday afternoon, under bandmaster Cooper, and continues to show marked improvement in every way. There was a fair attendance of the public and a satisfactory amount in funds was realised by the collection. The ban will play in the park every alternate Sunday afternoon.

50 years ago

8 March 1976

Ex-councillor praise for engineer

‘A great man of gifted intellect’

In a letter to the Journal, ex-councillor Ted Smith said he had witnessed bitter critics visit Mr Wright’s office “only to come away full of praise for advice and explanation received and relieved of any nervous tension.” Mr Smith said: “The imminent retirement of our Mr Wright calls for some special remarks. He came to Dandenong in 1950 when finances were at a low ebb, with ratepayers’ crying out for council action. We had no machinery or equipment of our own, were heavily committed with loan repayments. In Mr Wright’s first year he saved ratepayers more than his salary in obtaining metal at re-

Control over your future.

That mindset doesn’t disappear at Customs.

Culturally, some communities are wiredthrough lived history - to prioritise asset accumulation early.

Pooling family income.

Living multigenerationally.

Sacrificing lifestyle for leverage.

Other Australians prioritise independence first. Move out young. Travel. Rent. Build lifestyle before asset base.

Neither approach is morally superior.

They are cultural nuances.

And then there are cultures - including First Nations communities - whose relationship with land is not ownership at all.

It is custodianship.

Belonging to the land.

Not the land belonging to you.

That worldview clashes fundamentally with Western capitalist property systems built on title, leverage and capital growth.

So when we talk about “who owns Australia,” we are not just talking about mortgages.

We are talking about competing philosophies of land itself.

Yes, there are legitimate debates around foreign investment policy.

Yes, housing affordability is real.

Yes, governments must ensure fair access and transparent rules.

But the idea that migrants are somehow culturally programmed to “take over” misunderstands what is actually happening.

Many are simply following the same aspiration that built modern Australia in the first place: security through ownership.

The difference?

Some pursue it more strategically.

Some pursue it collectively.

And some delay it.

The property market itself is shifting.

Interest rates have stabilised.

Rental demand remains strong.

Selective softening is creating strategic

duced prices. His time has come to relinquish his onerous duties and leaves us with mixed feelings. To me he represented many things –first of all an example of practical Christianity, a sincere and wise ear to all in need.”

20 years ago 13 March 2006

Flashing pedals close at hand

The mountain bike events at Lysterfield Park will be one of the highlights of the Common-

wealth Games. The course was built especially after mountain bikes made an exciting debut at Manchester four years ago. More than 50 competitors from 18 countries are expected to ride the course. The Park was top choice for Parks Victoria, which felt the development would not pose a threat to the environment – part of the park was a former dairy farm. The mountain bike track has taken more than two years to complete, with environmental specialists and

opportunity.

But fear distorts perspective.

When housing becomes framed as “us versus them” , we stop asking better questions:

Are we educating Australians on financial literacy equally?

Are we aligning policy with long-term supply?

Are we teaching portfolio thinking rather than emotional buying?

Because here’s the uncomfortable truth - markets reward strategy, not sentiment.

And strategy is culturally learned.

As migrant parents who built security brick by brick, property meant dignity.

As a daughter working in strategic acquisition, property means leverage.

Two generations.

Two lenses.

Same underlying principle: security matters.

But fear will never solve affordability.

Smart policy might.

Financial education certainly would.

And cultural maturity absolutely will.

Truth be told… the real question isn’t who is buying Australia.

It’s whether we understand why we all want to.

local management committees enlisted to help. A spokesman said the $3 million course was “state of the art” and “built to last”. 5 years ago 16 March 2021

Pool ‘bombshell’

“Shocked” and “angered” residents said they had little warning that Doveton’s historic public pool had been slated for destruction. Casey administrators are set to vote on a recommendation to replace the 52-year old Olympic-sized outdoor pool with “public open space.” Doveton and Eumemmerring Residents Association stated that the former democratically elected councillors adopted a strategy in 2019 to invest $24 million into upgrading the pool as a high priority. According to a Casey Council report this month, the Doveton outdoor pool was “an over provision of aquatic services and facilities” which lost $190,000 from July 2019 to March 2020. It recommended a $4m option for free water play equipment in a park and social gathering place. The Doveton Pool in the Park – the only outdoor pool in Casey – is listed as a locally significant heritage site. It was built in 1968 after a spate of drownings in the Eumemmerring Creek.

Mindfulness protection in daily life helps comprehension

By Rev Bandaraulpatha Gnanawimala Thero of Buddhist Faith

In Buddhist teachings, sati—commonly translated as mindfulness—occupies a central place in the path to liberation.

Far from being limited to seated meditation, mindfulness is presented as a practical and protective quality that safeguards the mind in everyday life.

The Buddha repeatedly emphasized sati as a guardian that prevents unwholesome states from arising and supports the cultivation of wisdom. Mindfulness functions as a protective factor primarily by enabling clear awareness of the present moment.

When one is mindful, bodily actions, speech, and thoughts are observed as they arise.

This awareness creates a crucial pause between stimulus and response, reducing impulsive reactions driven by greed, hatred, and delusion.

In this way, mindfulness protects individuals from engaging in harmful actions that may lead to regret, conflict, and suffering.

In daily life, mindfulness operates through simple yet profound attentiveness.

MESSAGE OF HOPE

Being mindful while walking, eating, speaking, or working allows one to recognize subtle emotional shifts before they escalate.

For example, awareness of irritation as it first appears can prevent harsh speech, while mindfulness of craving can restrain excessive consumption.

Thus, sati acts as an internal monitoring system, preserving ethical conduct and mental balance.

The Buddha also described mindfulness as closely connected to clear comprehension. Together, they help individuals understand the purpose, suitability, and consequences of their actions.

This reflective awareness strengthens discern-

ment and supports wise decision-making in complex social and personal situations.

As stated in the Satipa??h?na Sutta, mindfulness leads to the purification of beings and the overcoming of sorrow and lamentation, high-

lighting its protective and transformative power. Moreover, mindfulness provides resilience against stress and suffering.

By observing experiences without attachment or aversion, one learns to endure pleasant and unpleasant conditions with equanimity.

This balanced engagement with life reduces psychological vulnerability and fosters inner stability.

Rather than avoiding difficulties, mindfulness equips individuals to face them skilfully.

In conclusion, mindfulness is not merely a meditative technique, but a vital protective factor embedded in daily living.

By guarding the senses, regulating emotional responses, and supporting ethical awareness, mindfulness protects both individual well-being and social harmony.

Cultivated consistently, sati becomes a reliable refuge, guiding one toward clarity, restraint, and freedom from unnecessary suffering.

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

Massage parlour concern

By Sahar Foladi

To the alarm of nearby parents and traders, a purported massage parlour with ‘optional VIP services’ is set to legitimately open two doors down from a primary school in Dandenong West.

The luridly-red shopfront will officially open in the Hemmings Street retail area on Saturday 21 March however there’s a flyer put up outside the shop with a QR code for locals to know more about what to expect.

Concerned locals found it bizarre when a simple scan of the QR code led them to a “VIP Massage” website, depicting semi-nude photos of females with faces half covered.

Until recently, its website boasted: “optional VIP Services are available — just ask your girl privately in the room”

When the Journal rang and enquired as to what this meant, it was told that it was “girlfriend-boyfriend service”

A window poster advertises that “friendly girls” of “all nationalities” can “earn cash daily”

The business profile on Google says the business “delivers professional relaxation massage services in a clean and discreet setting.”

The decriminalisation of sex work in Victoria has been implemented in two stages since February 2022 in Victoria, starting with removing criminal penalties for sex work.

In its second stage, the state’s brothel licensing system was removed and sex industry premises were regulated the same as other businesses from 1 December 2023.

Kafe on Hemmings cafe owner, Leah says the community are concerned for what this could mean for the area including safety concerns and the kind of clientele it’ll bring to Hemmings Street retail area.

“It doesn’t make sense this is able to open up so close to a primary school, where kids can walk past and be subjected to something like this.

“It’s just a lot of residents and business owners feel it’ll bring negativity through the street

and area. It’s not a good thing for young kids to walk past every day, the parents have to try and explain what’s going on.

“I understand the legislation allows them to open it up and do whatever they want but it’s a little uncomfortable. There were some locals that saw the ad, scanned the QR code and pretty confronted and disappointed to see.”

VIP Massage business owner, Yang Ju, says she understands the community’s questions and concerns but assures that it will operate strictly in accordance with the Victorian law, council planning requirements and all safety and compliance obligations.

“We are committed to being a respectful and considerate neighbour and to operating quietly and responsibly within the community.

“Our signage is deliberately modest and age-appropriate, and the premises operates with clear internal policies relating to lawful conduct, safety, hygiene and behaviour on site.

“Entry to the premises is monitored and minors are not permitted to enter.

“As with any small business operating within a neighbourhood shopping strip, our intention is simply to run a clean and orderly premises that coexists respectfully with surrounding businesses and the wider community.”

It’s confirmed by Ms Ju that there will be no alcohol served at the premises.

The first branch of VIP Massage opened in Noble Park in December 2024, with zero community complaints according to Ms Ju.

“That location has settled in quietly as part of

the local shopping strip and we hope the Dandenong premises will follow the same pattern.”

Greater Dandenong councillor Jim Memeti says he will convey the community’s concerns in the next council meeting on Monday 16 March.

“It doesn’t make sense to have one so close to a primary school, where students will walk past and ask their parents what is this?

“I’m very disappointed that Council doesn’t have the powers to stop these places opening up in our shopping strips

“This is not fair on the school, students and traders, the people who shop there.

“If this doesn’t change, you’ll see more and more of these things open in every place.” He asked residents to write to Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams, expressing their concerns.

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Shy stray cat finds home

By Sahar Foladi

A behaviour cat, Baneberry found his forever home in the ‘Mission Adoptable’ effort to boost adoptions by animal shelters.

Baneberry was brought into the Australian Animal Protection Shelter Keysborough as a stray cat last year, who could not be touched and described “extremely difficult to handle,” AAPS animal welfare manager, Amanda Warrick says.

“He spent a lot of time in our isolation area as he was extremely timid,” she said.

“Our cat staff worked really hard with him consistently and slowly he improved and became more accepting and confident with human touch.

“He progressed to our busier and louder areas as he became more confident.”

During adoption rounds, it’s said he would hide under his chair, never to be seen again, and would only come out over night-time to eat his food when no one was there.

But slowly Baneberry built confidence and would pop his head out.

Luckily for worried staff members at AAPS, Baneberry was adopted over the ‘Mission Adopt-

able’ weekend from Friday 20 February until Sunday 22 February, by a family who visited Baneberry few times before their final decision.

Behaviour cats can remain at the shelter for months and a year as staff struggle to find foster carers for them.

The initiative saw 18 adoptions where participating shelter significantly dropped adoption fees to just, $50 for a de-sexed, microchipped, fully vaccinated cat or kitten, saving upfront costs.

The drive was to push adoption numbers ahead of a prolonged peak cat and kitten season due to warmer conditions, as shelters prepare for additional hundreds of cats and kittens to enter their care.

Recently AAPS took in 58 cats facing euthanasia at an overwhelmed council pound. It brought its total intake to 133 cats and kittens in the shelter and 50 out in foster care.

Participating groups in Mission Adoptable include Animal Aide, Australian Animal Protection Society (AAPS), The Lost Dog’s Home and RSPCA alongside a number of metropolitan and regional rescues.

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

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Different but equal

Men and women each bring distinct strengths to our society. While no two individuals are the same, biological and psychological differences shape how we approach challenges, relationships and leadership. These differences are worth celebrating because true masculinity and femininity are not toxic; they provide balance, resilience and depth to our society.

Importantly, men and women are equal in value, dignity and talent. I was blessed to grow up in a home where I was loved and encouraged to pursue excellence alongside my brother. As a mother of two sons and two daughters, I have sought to pass on that same belief in opportunity and aspiration. Watching my children thrive in their careers, relationships, home ownership and service to their communities has been one of my greatest joys.

Women contribute unique perspectives, practical wisdom and thoughtful leadership. History shows us that our institutions are stronger when women are empowered to lead in the boardroom, cabinet room and parliamentary chamber. Victo-

ria has made meaningful progress on this front. Following the 2022 State Election, women won just over half of the 128 parliamentary seats. In the Legislative Council, the ratio is even larger with women holding 22 of 40 seats, with strong representation on the Liberal and Nationals side. I was proud to be one of four women MLCs, including three from the Liberals and one from the Nationals, to be elected for our first term. This International Women’s Day, let us ensure that talented women in leadership are not the exception, but the expectation. Let us foster a political culture where women actively support one another, and where capable, courageous and principled women are empowered to stand up for their communities, protect their children and advance our shared values. As your local Member, I will continue to play my part in this mission.

Ann-Marie Hermans MP, State Member for South Eastern Metropolitan Region

Jail for e-scooter dispute

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A drug-addled man who rammed open a factory gate and fired a gun near a business owner after a dispute over an e-scooter purchase has been jailed.

Cody Guerra, a 21-year-old father-of-three, was in a Hilux ute that dislodged a factory gate in Clayton South early on 12 November 2023.

On bail at the time, Guerra confronted the victim who lived on the premises.

He walked up to the victim’s face, asked who else was around and produced a gun.

“You want a gun fight? What’s with you” the victim asked.

The victim swung a baseball bat at Guerra, missing him “by a hair”, sentencing judge Patricia Riddell said on 3 March. The victim took cover, before Guerra – who didn’t have a gun licence - fired in his vicinity just a “few car widths away”, then fled the scene.

There was a realistic risk of the shot ricocheting off other factory items and causing injury, the judge said. Guerra was found guilty by a Victorian County Court jury of being a prohibited person using a firearm and of property damage.

Days earlier, the victim was offering an e-scooter for sale. Guerra took it for a ride but never returned it. Nor did he pay the owner.

In search of Guerra, the victim visited Guerra’s girlfriend’s home, and in frustration broke her home security camera.

On the night of the shooting, Guerra later rang the victim, and one of a pair of women lingering outside the gate warned the victim he’d get shot.

Judge Riddell said the community didn’t tolerate the carrying and use of guns for revenge or intimidation.

She said it was a brazen, premeditated act, in company with others, in order to scare the victim from retrieving the e-scooter when Guerra had been “in the wrong”.

The victim had not been threatening or the aggressor, but was entitled to contact Guerra about the scooter.

His breaking of the security camera “in no way justified your retaliation”.

Judge Riddell noted the “profoundly detrimental” financial, social and emotional impact on the victim.

His sense of peace and safety was shattered, with his workplace becoming a “place of danger”, the victim stated.

Since diagnosed with PTSD, he’d been haunted by flash-

backs, nightmares and severe anxiety.

His business – which was started by his father - became “paralysed” and closed, his reputation was tarnished at the factory complex.

The judge noted Guerra’s extensive priors, as well as being exposed to criminality, family violence and drugs from a young age.

He was impaired with a mild intellectual disability, as well as a possible acquired brain injury due to a car crash or drug use.

But this didn’t eliminate him from blame, the judge stated.

Being

Guerra was jailed for 18 months, followed by an 18-month community correction order.

The CCO includes supervision, judicial monitoring, as well as drug and mental health treatment.

His jail term includes 266 days already served in pre-sentence detention.

The Maze still confounds

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

An iconic Springvale community-artwork from the 1990s has journeyed from Greater Dandenong’s archives back into the public imagination at Walker Street Gallery and Art Centre.

The Maze was a huge papier-mache installation created by artist Suesy Circosta and more than 100 young people from migrant and refugee backgrounds in 1991.

The multitude of two-metre panels spanned a shared world – rich with the artists’ fears and desires, folk tales and animal iconography.

Thirty-five years on, the original has been incorporated into a new pulsing intersensory, video soundscape by multidisciplinary artists Fayen d’Evie and Jon Tjhia.

The work ‘The Maze: Reimagined, back notes’

brings in the voice of youth from 2026 and brings back the circa-1991 participants, now in their 50s.

There are grabs from interviews with Dandenong High School students and Connections Art Space members, as well as a “collective song”

Meanwhile, a second exhibition at Heritage Hill Museum will look back at the making of the original Maze.

The Maze was a powerful example of community art, bringing together a diversity of views and cultures, curator Miriam La Rosa says.

It travelled across Australia with even plans to tour internationally.

For most of the youths, it was their first involvement in an art project. At least one has kicked on as a professional artist.

La Rosa says The Maze’s core theme of giving young people tools to deal with conflict still res-

onates.

“We are currently experiencing another conflict, one of many going on, in the world.

“Being grounded in conflict resolution - it makes this work incredibly important and relevant.

“People are overwhelmed with options and possibilities – that’s something that people are facing with technology and AI. We’re losing touch with reality in many ways.

“This is a reminder of the power of connection, community, and coming together to face these anxieties.”

La Rosa says there’s a “commonality” between the two works and two eras – getting to the heart of “what makes us human”

“In a sense, nothing has changed from the 90s but so much has changed.”

Dandenong VIEW Club members got “all shook up” with an Elvis tribute performance and dinner as they marked their club’s 40th anniversary.

More than 50 members and guests celebrated with lavish cake at Dandenong RSL on Tuesday 3 March, before the rollicking live show.

President Gunta Delvers said the club held

its first dinner on Tuesday 4 February 1986 at St Mary’s Church community centre.

“Our members began with the desire of joining a group of women who were looking for friendship, support and doing something worthwhile.

“VIEW filled the spot and through friend-

ship and companionship, we have been able to raise enough money to support many Learning for Life students over the years and contribute to many of The Smith Family projects.”

To rapturous applause, the most enduring members Bev Rule (30 years’ membership), Bea Jarvis (31), Marlene Murphy (32), Nancy Im-

In a statement, d’Evie and Tjhia said The Maze Remagined was part of a “continuing conversation” on the conditions of “our shared world and our ways through it”

“(The original The Maze) invited its participants to articulate their sense of themselves in the world, and to share how they understood the world.

“The young people … have now lived adult lives, while their contemporary counterparts are searching for their own answers – and with a great sense of urgency.”

The Maze: Reimagined is at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, Wednesdays-Saturdays 11am-3pm until 16 May.

The Maze: Past, Present and Legacy is at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10am–2pm.

Greater

Wetland clean-up success

Greater Dandenong Environment Group volunteers have salvaged dozens of golf balls and sackfuls of plastic packaging from wetlands over the past two weekends.

The group worked throughout the morning at Dandneong Wetlands on Clean Up Australia Day on 1 March, filling 10 bags of rubbish from the bushland.

Items included plastic chip packets, fast-food packaging and drink containers, president Isabelle Nash said.

“Single use plastics are a huge concern for our environment.

“They are not biodegradable and just break up into little pieces instead. This means that they then can spread out more and become harder to collect.

“We really don’t want that happening as they then also enter the waterways and are digested by the skinks and birds,” Nash said – who observed a few skinks during the day.

The prior Sunday, the group also cleaned out 251 golf balls from a dry Tirhatuan Wetlands in Dandenong North.

“The lack of rain over summer has seen the water level drop, and it has become obvious that this wetland is also a great repository for golf balls.

“The GDEG embraced the spirit of Clean Up Australia, and boldly entered the almost dried up pond to pry the golf balls from their resting place.”

The environment group have reported a haven for birdlife and water bugs at the wetlands within the Dandenong Creek catchment.

Some of the species seen include the tawny frogmouth, the spotted pardalote, needle bug and flat worm.

“It is disturbing that there were this many golf balls in the wetlands,” volunteer Michelle said.

“I can only imagine the number of birds that have had close encounters with them.

“The other thing that disturbs me is the fact that a walking path occupies the land between the golf club and the wetlands pond.

“How many people have had close encounters, or lucky escapes from being walloped with

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

Cardinia Jobs and Skills

The 2026 Cardinia Jobs and Skills Showcase is back this month, to connect job seekers with local employers, training experts and designated job support agencies. Designed to support people at every stage of their employment journey, this event offers a welcoming space to explore pathways, gain practical advice and discover real opportunities close to home.

Held on Wednesday 18 March at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, the event starts at 9.15am with a comprehensive Jobseeker Information Session, led by Workforce Australia – Local Jobs. This session is tailored to help participants understand today’s job market, navigate in demand industries and sharpen their resume and interview skills. Whether actively jobhunting or wondering what might come next, the session provides job seekers with local insights and tips to start using immediately

From 10am, attendees can step into the main expo, the Jobs and Skills Showcase, featuring more than 60 employers, educators and career specialists from across the region.

Exhibitors range from major local employers to emerging industries, apprenticeship providers, training organisations and community services.

The expo offers something for young jobseekers, career-changers, parents returning to work and anyone looking to build new skills

Cardinia Shire Mayor, Cr Brett Owen said this event plays a vital role in strengthening a skilled and connected local workforce.

“Events like the Jobs and Skills Showcase help our community explore new possibilities and feel more prepared,” he said.

“They’re also a great boost for local businesses, giving them the chance to meet job seekers who are ready to become part of a thriving local workforce.

Council is proud to support an event that helps residents take the next step in their careers while strengthening our local workforce.”

The Jobs and Skills Showcase highlights the power of partnership, supported by Workforce Australia – Local Jobs, Federation University, Star News Group and Care Talent. Together, these organisations are helping create clearer pathways into local jobs and training and strengthening Cardinia’s economic future.

Bookings are essential for this FREE event, and demand is expected to be strong.

Whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time, preparing to upskill, or exploring a new direction altogether, the 2026 Jobs and Skills Showcase is your opportunity to gain clarity, make connections and take the next step with confidence.

Secure your place today

the full force of a golf ball?

“Do Melbourne Water and Rowville Lakes Golf Course need to rethink the barrier between

them? A row of native trees could be just the answer, making for a greater tree canopy, safer people, and a less littered wetland.”

Curfews spark ‘cat run’ boom

By Sahar Foladi

Cat curfews are fueling a boom in DIY and custom-built enclosures, says a feline-loving carpenter.

Greg Cole, who volunteers his handyman skills at Australian Animal Protection Society’s shelter at Keysborough, worked in construction for many years before he had to build his cats a “cat run” in his house, a safe and fun environment for his cats at home.

The cat run includes various designs and layouts with platforms, shelves, garden for cats to enjoy outdoors and indoors without roaming the neighbourhood.

“At that stage not many people were doing it. I just made something out of the materials I had, it’s totally different to how I do it now,” Mr Cole says.

“It’s a bit lifestyle thing for me too because I love cats, understand their behaviours and really enjoy creating environments that are really good for the cats - that’s the story behind it.

“I love building cat runs for people and seeing their lives improve as they don’t have to stress over where their cats are.”

Slowly, that turned into Custom Cat Run business, a professional built and installation of cat runs for households and Cat Enclosure Supplies, an affordable DIY supply.

“Now a lot of councils are bringing in 24/7 cat curfews, the demand for it has become great because people like their cats to have both outdoor time as well as indoors.

“The predominant reaction people have is, once they built themselves a cat run, they are much more stress-free, they can go out and the cats able to go in and out into their safe environment, not run away or get hit by cars, catch diseases.

“People overwhelmingly find that it creates a stress-free environment for themselves that the cats are happy but they are also happy and not worrying about the cat.”

The Mornington Peninsula resident is regularly down in Greater Dandenong and Casey to build cat runs.

Greater Dandenong has imposed a duskto-dawn curfew since 2024, while Casey enforces a 24/7 curfew said to be one of the

strictest in the state.

Designs can vary from using existing structures and materials such as nets running between a house and its fence.

Project costs vary by the scale of the project and sometimes, the risks involved.

The highest paid job being $14,000, average is $5500 and minimum being $3500.

One of the most expensive projects was 75-metres high on a penthouse balcony, strapped onto the side of the building to build a cat run, but he says the project allowed owners the comfort of allowing their cat in and out of the balcony without a concern.

“One I’m doing at the moment includes an al fresco area as a shared space for the people and their pet.

“I encourage people not to put it down the side of the house where the cat is out of the way because the cats love to be with their people.”

With longevity in the genes, a love for cats and passion or building safe environment for them, Cole doesn’t plan to retire anytime soon.

The business also has a YouTube channel, (@catenclosuresupplies), with how to tips and advice.

owners.(Supplied)

No appetite for South-East ‘super council’: Tan

By Corey Everitt and Violet Li

Discussion has emerged around amalgamating local government into “super councils” , with proponents citing financial strain and economies of scale, while a former local mayor argues that “local government should stay local”

As reported in The Age, Yarra Mayor Stephen Jolly said he wants an “adult conversation” about the amalgamation of local government, as he and Port Phillip Mayor Alex Makin revealed they are willing to consider a redrawing of their boundaries with the City of Melbourne. Lord Mayor Nick Reece described the idea as “bold” Mayor Jolly said the council had identified close to $10.5 million a year in cost-shifting and could be forced to make cuts and “become the Maggie Thatcher of Victoria”

Former premier Jeff Kennett backed the discussion.

The man responsible for reducing Victoria’s councils from 210 to 79 in 1994 told The Age he would merge Melbourne’s 31 councils into just five today.

However Greater Dandenong mayor Sophie Tan, citing the reportedly-acrimonious merger between Springvale and Dandenong at that time, gave no countenance to a South-East ‘super council’

“Greater Dandenong is the result of the amalgamation of the cities of Dandenong and Springvale, over 30 years ago.

“Since then, we have never discussed further amalgamation, and it is not a priority.”

The neighbouring City of Casey itself is a product of those 1994 reforms, through the amalgamation of the former City of Cranbourne and City of Berwick.

Casey’s longest-serving ex-councillor and ex-mayor Wayne Smith said his views on amalgamation had shifted over time.

While he initially opposed the 1994 council mergers, he learned to appreciate that “sometimes bigger is better”

“It was economies of scale. It was cheaper and more efficient to run bigger operations than every council running its own operation,” he said.

“It probably makes sense to revisit amalgamations, but they’ve got to be councils that have some sort of natural affinity with each other.

“I think with Dandenong, Casey, Cardinia, they certainly would have.

“The big part will be who’s going to be the boss? Who’s going to be the most important? And, of course, Dandenong and Casey will always argue that they’re more important, and that’ll be up to them to battle that out.”

Mr Smith said the benefits of scale would be most obvious in the service delivery. He pointed to programs such as home care and Meals on Wheels.

“Also rubbish collection, those things where there are contracts involved. You might be able to bargain better if it’s a bigger catchment,” he said.

However, he acknowledged that representation could suffer if councils became too large.

“They absolutely could,” he said of the risk that residents might lose their local voice.

“But it’s up to the people who get elected, the representatives.

“If you went bigger, you’re not going to get councillors who can give the time and the energy unless they were full-time.

“We have to look seriously at full time councillors, but then they would have to be accountable.”

Long-time ex-councillor of City of Berwick Ray Bastin said he did not support the idea of creating larger “mega councils” , arguing that expanding electorates would weaken local representation.

“The local government is about being close to the residents. The larger the electorate, it means

that you can’t have that contact,” he said. Mr Bastin recalled that back when he was a councillor, he door-knocked, hand-delivered leaflets and even responded to a resident’s flooding emergency at 11.30pm.

“That’s what I expect of councillors. They’re local,” he said.

“And I’m quite sure that seeing the councillor is representing a greater size electorate, he would be hoping for a greater salary package. Even if the salary package equated the combined income of the current councillors, I still maintain that the residents would not be getting their best representation.

“You expect these councillors to turn up to your local AGM meetings, the monthly meeting of say the tennis club or the footy club, you want that close contact.

“And if it’s a larger area, you might have 10, 12 different clubs all vying for you on the same night for you to drop in. The representation would be more distant, not as close.”

Former Pakenham Shire mayor Bill Ronald, who was sacked when Kennett dissolved 210 councils into 79 in 1994, said the debate depends on geography.

He said it is a worthy discussion for the inner city, which has “completely different set-ups” to outer Melbourne, but he would never support proposals from Kennett, whose merger was a “complete disaster” for this growth area.

“Our position was that we were a growing municipality and that to amalgamate us would just give us too much growth all of a sudden, rather than having the ability to cope with the growth over time, and that proved to be the case,” he said.

The premise of an inner-city merger would be to pool funds, resources and assets across the area.

Cardinia recorded $303.5 million in revenue in 2024–25, Casey $629.2 million, and Greater Dandenong $305.5 million.

A spokesperson for Greater South East Melbourne said the issue is not relevant to its role.

Cardinia and Casey councils declined to comment.

Fifteen day luxury cruise

Imagine sailing down the Mississippi and the Ohio Rivers for 16 days taking in the sights of colourful New Orlean, musical Memphis and lovely Louisville.

Viking have announced their new itineraries for the region for 2027 and bookings are now open.

Sailing on board the Viking Mississippi, guests can choose the new fifteen day Bayous, Blues and Bluegrass itinerary, which operates between New Orleans and Louisville, with ports of call along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers.

A shorter option is the eight day Mississippi and Ohio River Explorer itinerary which offers a journey between Memphis and Louisville.

Viking Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen believes wherever they are in the world, Viking guests are interested in the history, culture and culinary traditions of the destinations they visit.

“The towns and cities along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers are close to home for quite a few of our guests and are fantastic destinations that many have yet to discovering,” he said.

He believes the new itineraries expand the company’s destination-focused offerings on the Mississippi River.

The itineraries explore the rich heritage of the American South, birthplace of some of the country’s most beloved culinary and musical tradition with the 2027 Bayous, Blues and Bluegrass 15 day New Orleans to Louisville cruise.

Along the Mississippi River, grand homes preserve the South’s past. Step into Civil War history at Vicksburg and feel the rhythm of the blues in Greenville. Further north, sample smoky barbecue in Tennessee and discover Kentucky’s legacy of craftsmanship, from the powerful Louisville Slugger to smooth bourbon.

Also new for 2027 is the eight day Mississippi and Ohio River Explorer from Memphis to Louisville. Sail on the Ohio and Mississippi rivers as they wind past scenic wetlands, quaint towns and storied cities.

Classic American musical genres with the blues, rock ‘n’ roll and bluegrass arose along these waterways. Discover the legacies of icons such as BB King and Elvis Presley in Memphis, Tennessee. In Kentucky, Louisville’s baseball museum preserves the spirit of America’s favourite pastime while its bourbon distilleries honour generations of craftsmanship.

The 22-day Mississippi River Odyssey from New Orleans to St Paul gives guests the opportunity to revel in the charm of “America’s Great River” as the ship sets sail along the Mississippi.

Admire the historic mansions and grand homes atop its bluffs, and delve into America’s Civil War history.

Delight in the region’s famed Southern cuisine and sample Memphis’s renowned barbecue, alongside artisan beers. Birthplace of American music, blues, jazz and soul, the Mississippi celebrates its musical heritage in the towns and cities that line its legendary shores.

The eight-day Mississippi Delta Explorer from New Orleans to Memphis allows guests to discover Darrow, the gateway to the grand homes of the Lower Mississippi and explore the fascinating towns along the banks of the Mississippi that preserve the memory of the American South’s early history.

Learn about Natchez’s French and Acadian heritage and pay respects at the Vicksburg battlefield. Savour delicious Cajun and creole cuisine, as well as Memphis’s famous barbecue, as you celebrate musical legends in the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll.

Discover the Heartland of America over eight days from St Louis to St Paul as guests journey along the Upper Mississippi and hear stories of intrepid pioneers and the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Walk in the footsteps of famed writer Mark Twain and learn about the Norwegian migration to the Midwest.

Enjoy the view as the luxury ship navigates through the river’s intricate lock system and experience the region’s many cultural treasures from ragtime, polka and Norwegian folk music to Wisconsin cheese, craft beer and hearty stews.

On the eight day New Orleans and Southern Charms leaving New Orleans for a roundtrip, discover the Lower Mississippi’s rich charm, history and hospitality. Explore historic estates and visit notable Civil War sites.

Sample the bustling French-flavoured port cities of New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Sway to the tempos of Dixieland jazz, gospel and blues. Savour gourmet Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as traditional Southern fare. Join this special Viking cruise and see why local Cajuns say, “Laissez les bons temps rouler” (Let the good times roll).

The Viking Mississippi hosts 386 guests in 193 all-outside staterooms. The state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi is inspired by Viking’s awardwinning river and ocean ships and features elegant Scandinavian design, as well as public spaces that are familiar to guests but reimagined

for Mississippi River voyages. The ship’s cuttingedge design, expansive windows and comfortable amenities make the Viking Mississippi the first truly modern ship in the region. For further information please phone 138 747 or visit www.viking.com.

8 DAYS IN EASTERN

EUROPE

$5,695* pp FROM

Book now and choose your preferred offer valued up to $5,000 per couple: Free economy class flight offers, upgrade to business class with an airfare credit, or save on your cruise fare.

Available until sold out on select river, ocean and expedition voyages*.

ROMANTIC DANUBE

Budapest to Regensburg or vice versa

Explore Göttweig Abbey, one of Austria’s most revered monastic centres and make dumplings with Wachau Valley apricots.

8 DAYS

JUN-NOV 2026; 2027; MAR-NOV 2028

From $5,695pp in Standard Stateroom From

PASSAGE TO EASTERN EUROPE

Bucharest to Budapest or vice versa

Sail the Danube’s Iron Gate, witness Hungary’s Puszta horsemen, and behold Budapest’s grandeur—Eastern Europe unveiled.

11 DAYS • 5 COUNTRIES • 8 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • APR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; 2028

From $7,595pp in Standard Stateroom From $9,495pp in Veranda Stateroom

CAPITALS OF EASTERN EUROPE

Bucharest to Vienna or

Discover the “City of Waltzes,” Austria’s elegant capital and European centre of classical music. In Bratislava, view grand palaces from the Hapsburg era.

17 DAYS • 7 COUNTRIES • 12 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • APR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027; 2028

From $11,495pp in Standard Stateroom From $16,795pp in Veranda Stateroom

Introducing our 2026-2028 River Voyages brochure. Uncover the immersive experiences that await you along the world’s waterways with Viking.

WHAT’S ON

Egyptian belly dance

Performance and workshop with Azra, a celebrated Melbourne artist since 2010.

• Tuesday 10 March, 10.30am-12pm at Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free event. Registrations required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.

au/#!/event-detail/ev_424235fd80e048aba

cea7dd35c948068

Chinese ink painting

Create traditional Chinese ink paintings with artist Florence Wang.

• Tuesday 10 March, 6.30pm-8pm at Dandenong Library; free event. Registration required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.

au/#!/event-detail/ev_2486d9d41a9b41ed8

6c5ff0895c151de

Ramadan Night Market

Discover the global tastes of Ramadan. Food stalls and vans, prizes, rides, activities.

• Thursdays-Sundays until 15 March, 7pm-late at Thomas and Scott streets and Harmony Square, Dandenong.

Mini Sustainability Festival

Activities such as recycled collage art, refills of natural cleaning products, mending and patching, pre-loved book giveaway, clothes swap and urban harvest swap. Eco-friendly door prizes.

• Saturday 14 March, 11am-3pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event.

Springvale Urban Harvest

Come along to swap excess homegrown produce and gardening extras and meet like-minded growers in the area. Supported by The Greater Dandenong Seed Library and the Springvale Community Hub Clothes Swap.

• Saturday 14 March, 11am-3pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Free event.

Clothes swap

Community members are invited to contribute up to 10 items of clothing, shoes and/or accessories. All items must be clean, in good condition and ready to display on the day.

• Saturday 14 March, 11am-3pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale. Free event. Details: Zoe, mohlz@icloud.com

DIY draught stopper

Make your own draught stopper from reclaimed textiles — a simple, effective way to block draughts and keep your home warmer, cosier, and more energy-efficient. Part of the Springvale Community Hub Mini Sustainability Festival.

• Saturday 14 March, 1.30pm-3.30pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Bookings required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/ event-detail/ev_55efe956e2b547978df0178 c8815bf61

Our Beat

Emerging musicians, rappers, dancers and spoken word artists aged 14-25 are invited to take part in hands-on workshops (2.30pm-4pm), open mic sessions and live performances (4pm-7pm). Workshops include beatmaking, MPC and DJ sessions, and live art workshop by @artbytdr.

• Saturday 14 March 2pm-7pm at Hemmings Park Skate Park, 61A Princes Highway, Dandenong; free event. Registrations encouraged at eventbrite.com/e/ourbeat-14th-march-openmic-workshops-live-performances-tickets1982733522339?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Make a reusable tote bag

Design your own reusable tote bag, discover how small choices reduce waste, and explore stormwater systems through storytelling. Suitable for ages 7-12 years. Presented by Earth Crusaders.

• Saturday 14 March, 2.30pm-3.30pm at Springvale Library, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Registration required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ ev_b2b3e302e0c44d64b967db1cb9c5537f

Open Space: Cookin’ On 3 Burners with Stella Angelico Trailblazers from the worlds of funk, hip hop, soul and future sounds come together for a music event like no other. Melbourne’s funk power trio Cookin’ On 3 Burners, with GRID Series Release Party feat. M4RTHA, Kiid Koda, ACP & Jordz.

• Saturday 14 March 6pm-9pm at Bunjil Place plaza, Narre Warren; free event. Details: bunjilplace.com.au/events/open-space-cookin& percnt;E2%80%99-on-3-burners-stella-angelico

Kandyan fusion dance

Discover the elegance of Sri Lankan Kandyan

Are you a persuasive communicator with a passion for sales?

looking for a flexible, casual, or part-time role that allows you to showcase your skills and earn some extra income? Look no further! Network Classifieds, a leading online and print classified advertising platform serving multiple mastheads across Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, and NT, is seeking enthusiastic Telephone Sales Representatives to join our dynamic team.

About Network Classifieds

Based in Pakenham Network Classifieds is at the forefront of connecting buyers and sellers across multiple regions in Australia. With a strong online and print presence, we help communities find the perfect deals, services, and opportunities. As a Telephone Sales Representative, you'll play a crucial role in driving our sales efforts and expanding our network.

What You'll Do

•Engage with potential customers over the phone to promote our advertising solutions.

• Build and maintain strong customer relationships.

•Understand customer needs and provide tailored advertising solutions.

•Meet and exceed sales targets and performance goals.

• Collaborate with a motivated and supportive team.

Requirements

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Confidence in making outbound sales calls.

• Motivated, goal-oriented, and results-driven.

•Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

•Previous sales or customer service experience is a plus, but not required.

How to Apply

If you're ready to take on this exciting role with the flexibility you desire, we want to hear from you! Please send your resume and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant skills and why you're interested in joining Network Classifieds as a Telephone Sales Representative to Sue Hall, Classified Advertising Manager, at sales@networkclassifieds.com.au. Join us in helping our diverse communities connect, buy, and sell through effective advertising solutions. Be a part of the Network Classifieds team and make a difference in the world of classifieds!

dance blended with modern styles in this dynamic workshop. Enjoy an interactive session that includes costumes for an authentic cultural experience. Presented by Pravaha Dancing Foundation.

• Tuesday 17 March, 10.30am-12pm at Springvale Library, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Registration required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ ev_813cf754c6e24f97b04407e1771eb360

Harmony Day cooking

Celebrate diversity through the joy of food. An interactive cooking activity.

• Tuesday 17 March 11am-1pm at Autumn Place Community Hub, Doveton; free event. Bookings essential on 9792 7382.

Design your Wildlife Garden

Learn how to use local indigenous plants for food and shelter, how to add water sources and make a beautiful habitat stepping stone for echidnas, bees, birds and butterflies.

• Wednesday 18 March, 10.30am-12pm at Keysborough Community Hub, 10 Villiers Road, Keysborough; free event. No registrations required.

Neighbourhood Policing Forum.

Victoria Police panel, with questions taken from the audience. Topics include crime trends, young people, drugs and drug-related crime. Submit questions prior to the event at app.sli.do/ event/29rhTNC96CCvmkt7PpeBkW/live/questions

• Wednesday 18 March 5.30pm-8.30pm at Dandenong Civic Centre, 225 Lonsdale St, Dandenong. Registrations required at NHP-GREATERDANDENONG-MGR@police.vic.gov.au

Bakhtar Casey Nawroz Festival

A celebration of culture, diversity and unity. Presented by Bakhtar Cultural Organisation.

• Saturday 21 March 1pm at 23-47 Gunns Road, Hallam.

Make a reusable tote bag

Design your own reusable tote bag, discover how small choices reduce waste, and explore stormwater systems through storytelling. Suitable for ages 7-12 years. Presented by Earth Crusaders.

• Saturday 21 March, 2.30pm-3.30pm at Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free event. Registration required

at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net. au/#!/event-detail/ev_23d6a2f0cf9a476fbfe 8fe339223b71d

9 by 5 Opening

Local and national artists create nine-by-five-inch photos and paintings in the 18th annual 9 by 5 exhibition. Refreshments provided.

• Saturday 21 March, 3pm-5pm at Drum Theatre, 226 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free event. Registrations required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ ev_c97c5bc33a5e4fababdea5dd4db7cb71

Open Space: Wild Gloriosa and Hari Sivanesan

Award-winning Tamil-Australia Wild Gloriosa brings her captivating blend of neo-soul, R&B, and jazz, along with veena virtuoso Hari Sivanesan, Studio J Dance and Kerfew Collective DJ’s. Sneak preview of gallery exhibition The Offbeat Sari.

• Saturday 21 March 6pm-9pm at Bunjil Place plaza, Narre Warren; free event. Details: bunjilplace.com.au/events/open-space-wild-gloriosa-and-hari-sivanesan

All Holden Car Show

Classic Kingswoods and Monaros to newer Holdens, HSVs, Brock/HDT specials and Walkinshaw performance builds — this is the ultimate celebration of Holden pride. Holden displays across every era, trophies and prizes, live music, BBQ, food trucks, kid activities, car product stalls, charity raffles. Presented by Rotary Club of Dandenong and Endeavour Hills.

• Sunday 22 March 9am-2pm (bump-in entrant cars from 7am) at Greaves Reserve, Bennet Street, Dandenong. Details: rotaryclubofgreaterdandenong.org/stories/2026-dandenongall-holden-car-show

Greater Dandenong Sustainability Festival

Free, family-friendly festival with experts, activities, and entertainment to help you discover simple, practical ways to live more sustainably. This year’s theme, “Change Starts at Home,” includes free eco-friendly crafts, rehomed books, plant giveaways, and peddled powered smoothies, EV displays, live performers, great prizes.

• Sunday 22 March, 10am-3pm at Dandenong Market, cnr Clow and Cleeland streets, Dandenong; free event.

Star News Group is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

Sales skills/experience:

• Ability to maintain existing professional relationships and to create new ones

• Ability to meet defined sales and activity targets

• Excellent listening skills

• Accuracy and attention to detail

• Effective time management to meet deadlines

• Ability to operate in a team

• Demonstrates initiative and flexibility

• Effective oral and written communication

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which

allowance.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to:

Advertising Sales Manager Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

Bloods back for big dance

By Blair Burns

Springvale South has flexed its muscles and done it again.

The Bloods made it 3-0 against Buckley Ridges this season and booked a spot in the Dandenong District Cricket Association (DDCA) Turf 1 grand final with an 87-run victory.

It was a huge weekend of action across the DDCA and Dandenong Park Oval was home to another exciting clash.

Springvale South won the toss and chose to bat first, with formidable opening duo Mitch Forsyth and Ryan Quirk getting the innings started nicely.

The pair added 90 runs for the first wicket before Forsyth (35) was caught by wicketkeeper Troy Aust, edging as he tried to take Ishan Jayarathna down the ground.

Skipper Cam Forsyth stood up against the Bucks last time and did so again, adding another 85-run partnership to put the Bloods in a great position.

Springy was 1/168 at tea and in a brilliant position to launch.

Quirk (91) was the next wicket to fall when Harry Snowden snuck one through him to rattle the pegs in the 45th over, the score at 2/185.

Jordan Wyatt walked out to join his skipper but met the same fate as Quirk.

The former Wookey Medallist was knocked over for a golden duck and big Snowden was all of a sudden on a hat-trick.

Dasun Opanayaka joined Forsyth at the crease but Snowden delivered again, knocking him over for 11 soon after - the Bloods had lost 3/12.

But as he has done so often this season, Blade Baxter got set at the crease and showed how valuable he is as an all-rounder.

Forsyth went for a well-made 60, and from there wickets continued to tumble around Baxter.

Ranel Seneviratne (duck), Nick Boland (2) and Josh Dowling (4) all faltered, with the exception of Christopher Diston (25), before Baxter (46) was eventually the last wicket to fall.

Springvale South was all out for 294 and thanks to Snowden’s incredible spell of 6/58 off 18.3 overs, Buckley Ridges had managed to restrict the Bloods after a strong start.

On Sunday, the Bucks returned to the venue in hopes of chasing the score.

Despite scoring seven runs off the first over, they also lost a wicket.

Opanayaka drew the first Blood, trapping Ayush Patel (2) on the pads (a repeat of last game) as he was given out LBW - the fourth consecutive week he has been out this way.

Troy Aust was the incoming batter and took a patient approach, while Dale Tormey began finding the boundary rope at the other end.

But a short ball caught on the fence by Boland caused Tormey to come undone, gone for 24.

Then it was time for Baxter to get involved, removing Aust and captain Jayson Hobbs (both 9) before the 25-over mark.

Roshane Silva had to be the guy to lead Buckley Ridges to a spot in the grand final.

He batted beautifully, pushing his way to 90 not out, but he ran out of partners.

Silva watched seven partners fall victim to Springy’s strong bowling attack, with only Triyan De Silva (22) and Ashen Hettinayaka (13) reaching double figures.

The run-out of Snowden (7) was the final

wicket to fall.

The Bucks were bowled out for 207 in 66.1 overs and now face Berwick in the preliminary final.

Jarryd Straker spun a web for the Bloods with 3/32 off 15 overs to take his season wicket tally to 37.

Josh Dowling and Boland took one each, while Opanayaka and Baxter claimed two poles.

In the other game, Berwick breezed past Hallam Kalora Park and eliminated last year’s grand finalists.

Ben Hillard (30) and Jagveer Hayer (31) put on 53 runs for the first wicket before Toby Wills turned the game on its head.

He dismissed Hillard before removing Jawid Khan (duck) and Damith Perera (duck) in the same over.

Jordan Hammond steadied the innings with 49 alongside Austin Fardell (30), but the Hawks declared at 9/192 late on day one.

Berwick finished the job comfortably, with Jarryd Wills (43), Jake Hancock (35) and skipper Michael Wallace (53 not out) guiding the Bears home alongside Chathura Imbulagoda (40 not out).

They will head into next week’s preliminary final fresh and full of confidence as they prepare to bring down the Bucks.

Coomoora thumps Narre Warren, Bandits hold off HSD

By Blair Burns

Thetwobestteamsfromthe2025/26DDCATurf

2 season will be playing off in the grand final this weekend as both Parkfield and Coomoora secured victories.

The Roos sent a message to the rest of the competition as they obliterated fourth-placed Narre Warren, belting 257 before bowling the Magpies out for just 60.

Coomoora won the toss and batted first, but things were ominous early as the top side fell to 3/34 having lost Nick Suppree (1), Lance Baptist (19) and Jarrod Munday (2), with John Mentiplay taking two of those.

But enter Krishan Alang.

The Gartside Medallist showed why he is clearly the best player in the league, coming in early and absorbing the pressure.

Alang and Joel Robertson put the Roos back in control with a clutch 172-run partnership before Robertson (73) was dismissed by Hennadige Ashan Surantha Fernando.

Alang went on to score his third century of the season, finishing 122 not out as Coomoora reached 4/257 from its 80 overs.

Sunday was short and sweet for the Roos.

Sam Wetering struck with the fourth ball of the day, snicking off Rashmitha Emantha Perera (duck), before Joel Robertson castled skipper

Ted Kahandawala (7).

Wetering then removed Shivang Kotnala (1)

and Robertson trapped Amila Ratnaike (duck) to leave Narre Warren reeling at 4/14.

Jackson Noske tore through the middle order with 3/4 off five overs.

Ben Swift (37) scored five of the team’s six

boundaries as Narre Warren was bowled out for 60, handing the Roos a 197-run victory.

The other match was much more closely fought, with Parkfield and HSD going head-tohead at Parkfield Reserve.

HSD batted first but Madusha Croos dominated early, taking four of the first six wickets to leave the Cobras at 6/30.

Anuda Akmeemana once again delivered for HSD, scoring 63 off 118 balls to help his side reach 129 from 44.5 overs.

Croos finished with 5/32 off 10.5 overs, while Nigel van der Vert took 2/33.

Four wickets fell before Parkfield passed the target, but Sam Beadsworth held the run chase together.

After moving to the opening position late in the season, he delivered again with a patient 62 off 172 deliveries.

Beadsworthfellat4/127,justthreerunsshort of victory, before Parkfield finished the chase in the 61st over and ended the day at 7/178.

HSD’s Liam O’Connor impressed with his spin, taking 5/29 off 18 overs.

The grand final is now set for this weekend between the original top two sides, Coomoora and Parkfield.

Conversion costly for City

By Justin Schwarze

A disappointing Friday night at Frank Holohan Soccer Complex saw Dandenong City draw 0-0 with Caroline Springs in round four of the NPL. City has endured a less than desired beginning to its campaign after finishing runners up in 2025, picking up just one win from its first four hitouts.

With Football Victoria’s point deduction for undisciplinary action displayed in last season’s grand final, Dandenong sits with just one point to its name on the year.

However, it was coming off a 2-1 victory away against reigning champions Heidelberg, a result that would’ve filled Nick Tolios’ side with supreme confidence.

A scrappy first half ensued on Friday night, with City having the upper hand by firing 11 shots, but just two were on target and unable to trouble the scorers.

The visitors had managed four on target from their seven attempts, but also were unable to find the back of the net.

Dandenong had an opportunity when Valli Cesnik fired a long range shot in the 66th minute, but his attempt was comfortably dealt with by the Caroline Springs keeper.

And despite City controlling most of the second half on the possession front, the hosts’ quest for any type of breakthrough went begging.

Dandenong recorded 22 shots for the evening, more than double Caroline Springs’ effort of 10, but neither team could be separated and the points were shared.

City also had five shots on target and nine corners but just lacked finishing ability.

Dandenong Thunder’s horror start to 2026 continued with a 1-0 loss at home against Avondale.

Both teams were resistant and enforcing defensively and in the midfield in the first half, neither allowing the other any big chances.

Neither side registered a shot on target and both had just two attempts each, marking an all out battle in the middle of the ground.

It was going to take something special to break the deadlock after the intermission, and it certainly did.

It was an absolute beauty that provided the Avengers with the spark they needed to get the game on their terms.

From there, the visitors withstood multiple Dandenong punches to roll to the three points.

In the 47th minute, Emlyn Wellsmore charged through the centre of the field and split a pair of Thunder midfielders with his pace, before launching a thunderbolt off his right boot from distance that rocketed into the top of the net.

Dandenong currently sits second bottom after losing its third consecutive game.

In round five, Dandenong Thunder will travel to face Hume City while Dandenong City is also away at Avondale on Saturday.

Thunder shot at goal seven times in the second half with five on target, while Wellsmore’s stunner was Avondale’s only accurate attempt of the evening despite being the difference.

Form guide thrown out as Eagles thrive in local derby

By David Nagel

Noble Park (173) has a lot of work to do in a very small space of time if it wants to challenge for this year’s Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association (VSDCA) premiership after being pushed aside easily by near-neighbour Endeavour Hills (226) on Saturday.

The last round of the season was set up to be a real confidence-booster for Noble, who was already locked in for finals and playing against an Eagles’ outfit that had won just three games for the season.

But things did not pan out as expected, from the moment Eagles’ skipper Tyrell Panditharatne elected to bat first on his home deck.

The Eagles batted aggressively early, with Ashwanth Nagendran (27 off 16 balls) and Zac Perryman (46 off 44) not allowing the Noble Park bowlers to settle.

Adish Bhavsar (32 off 44) and Assadollah Vala (23 off 31) then took a more traditional approach through the middle overs, with Noble Park ace Sahan Perera (3/33) pulling things back for the visitors.

The Eagles lost momentum at a crucial stage of their innings, falling to 7/168, but had two more bullets to fire.

Jasmeet Singh (36 off 47) and Bineth Bandara (16 off 34) took the innings deep, sharing a 50-run partnership for the eighth wicket that would prove vital in the final washup.

Pawan Edirisinghe (4/19) took four of the last six wickets to fall to be the pick of the Noble Park bowlers.

Noble then struggled early in its reply with Eagles’ opener Ishan Kahatapitigama (5/48) making several key breakthroughs.

He took the scalps of Archie Stefan (14) and Janaka Liyanabadalge (0) in quick succession, then nailed the crucial wicket of Perera (10) to make it 3/40 after nine overs.

Edirisinghe (25) and Mahesh Kumara (63) then attempted a rescue mission for Noble, but a five-wicket haul to Kahatapitigama and two each to Jasmeet Singh (2/24) and Vala (2/25) ensured the Eagles would finish a poor season in style.

Kumara will take some good form into this

week’s elimination final against Werribee, cracking five boundaries and two sixes in his 73 balls at the crease.

Noble, last year’s runners up, will really need to turn things around having won just two of its last six games.

Noble finish the season in sixth, having led the competition after nine rounds.

The win over Noble saw Endeavour Hills

leap over Box Hill into fourteenth place in the 16-team competition.

VSDCA R15 (1 Day): Endeavour Hills 226 def Noble Park 173, Box Hill 56 def by Croydon 5/263, Donvale 9/157 def by Balwyn 6/158, Mt Waverley 9/231 def Bayswater 7/228, Altona 157 def by Spotswood 9/161, Hoppers Crossing 9/193 def Williamstown 7/149, Werribee 3/130 def Taylors Lakes 129, Yarraville 267 def

9/265.

• Launching Pad Heats – March 19 • Launching Pad Semi Finals – March 26 • Full Buffet • Live

• Launching Pad Finals

• $6 Schooners •

• Live music ‘Gold Chisel’

• Kids Easter activities, Easter egg hunt & facepainting • Bookmaker on-track

5,000 for Hole-in-One $2,000 Nearest to the pin OR