EHD Star Journal - 16th June 2026

Rising anxiety

During this Refugee Week, Greater Dandenong mayor Sophie Tan has launched a strong defence of multiculturalism – which has become the target of increasingly fierce political fire.

A survey released by AMES Australia suggests migrants and refugees are feeling rising anxiety as political parties such as One Nation take aim at migration levels.

Cr Tan says most residents are “very compassionate” about the challenges faced by new arriv-

als, but acknowledged there was a hostile “loud minority”

The mayor pointed to Greater Dandenong’s unique make-up – more than half of its residents were born overseas.

It is home to the state’s second-highest number of residents on bridging visas.

She said as part of Refugee Week, we should remember “these people are your neighbours” and “they are real people”

“This could easily be your family, and they are not the reason for the hardships you face.

“Migrants play a vital role in Australia’s economy and society,” she said.

Bruce MP and Assistant Multicultural Affairs Minister Julian Hill said the “vast majority” of refugee applicants are refused due to “capacity limits”.

“But we can value those lucky enough to come here – they’re some of our most entrepreneurial

Australians who have a crack at starting businesses and work hard to build the country and give their kids a better life.”

Asylum Seeker Resource Centre deputy chief executive Jana Favero said migrants and refugees were “too often being used as scapegoats”

“Political leaders must stop acting as though cruelty is a measure of strength.”

For more stories on Refugee Week, turn to pages 14 and 15

Brazen theft shocks school

By Sahar Foladi

A devastating theft of a student’s brand-new bike from a Dandenong school’s bike shed quickly turned into meaningful action to restore the smile on the student’s face.

Ali *, a Grade 4 student from Dandenong Primary School, worked hard to save money from doing chores at home and birthday money to buy the bike to ride to school, only for it to be stolen within three days.

The school’s CCTV camera captured a man eyeing the bike from outside, walking on either side of the school before he jumped over the fence, broke a lock and fled with the bike in broad daylight.

That left Ali and his family devastated after working hard to buy the bike, which retailed at $2000.

Ali says he found his bike chains on the ground the day after.

In a heartwarming response, the school’s staff and wider community restored the same bike, colour and size for Ali to see him smile again.

Principal Daniel Riley says the family were grateful for the rally of support.

“His dad was gutted with the loss of the bike, as you would be.

“The family were very surprised by the speed of the turnout to get a new one, and thankful for how much support came our way.

“Lots of people are doing it tough and barely afford to put food on the table,” he says.

“But the thing that made us do this was that he had the bike for less than a week and it was so brazen of the thief, we saw it on CCTV.

“People who donated - staff and friends of the

school - have been amazing but taken a lot of joy knowing they put a smile back on Ali’s face.”

A surprised, excited Ali was concerned that his new bike’s seat was at the right height, but said “I felt relieved that there are good people in the school”

The money was raised within two weeks, and Mr Riley quickly contacted the Trek store in Pakenham where it was originally purchased.

However, there was only one of the same bike left in the entire state, located in its Richmond store.

“We worked together with Pakenham and Richmond Trek, who wanted to help us out,” Mr Riley says.

“The folks got in touch with the head office, held onto the bike for us, they gave us a very big

discount and gave it to us faster than usual.”

If it weren’t for their support, the school would’ve spent three weeks just to fundraise enough money.

The story was shared on the school’s Facebook page, which has now gone on to be “the most popular social media post” they posted, according to the principal.

“What we’re hearing from the community is what an amazing community this is, that has restored some faith in some people, and you can see it in the comments.”

It has gained over 475 likes with one user commenting, “This is great. This is Australia”

Another posted “Fantastic community,” while another suggested installing a tile tracker discreetly onto the new bike to keep track of its lo-

Uproar over syringe dispenser shift

By Sahar Foladi

A controversial syringe vending machine has been relocated to the side of a Springvale community health centre after a year of community advocacy.

However, the concerned community say the 20-metre relocation from the front to the side of the Monash Health building on Buckingham Avenue is not enough.

Local businesses in Springvale’s bustling area, school community and wider community had previously raised concerns about the location of the Needle and Syringe Program (NSP) unit, which was directly opposite St Joseph’s Primary School and within short distance of Springvale Shopping Centre and popular Asian restaurants.

Opponents feared that the 24/7 vending machine would attract more drug users in the area.

A Monash Health spokesperson said they relocated the Needle and Syringe Program unit to the side of its Springvale Community facility.

“To keep the community safe, the Monash Health Community Springvale site has security personnel, is checked daily for dangerous objects, and has appropriate sharps disposal bins.”

Businesses nearby the Buckingham Avenue, claimed needles and syringes have been discarded on footpaths, on the doorsteps of their businesses and thrown onto school grounds.

Springvale Central and Springvale Shopping Centre are also in close proximity of the NSP unit.

A manager of the shopping centres, who wishes not to be named, says they need a proper solution to relocate the unit far away from busy and residential zones.

She says nothing has changed since the NSP unit’s relocation, instead the issue is just getting worse.

“That machine provides the needles, meaning users will go somewhere else to inject themselves, like a council public toilet or shopping centre toilets, and discarding the needles in the car park, grass, toilets, anywhere they want.

“Every morning, the first thing that people at the shopping centre alleyway see are homeless drug users surrounded by rubbish, trolley filled with rubbish and syringes next to them.

“This is not something we see once in a while. This is constant, normalised, something people expect to see.

“The NSP objective is to support drug users, support public health but based on what’s happening now, the program is not doing what it intended.

“It’s creating public safety and health issues for the entire community.”

Along with the Springvale community, she has worked to advocate on the rising issue with the Greater Dandenong Council, Monash Health and Victoria Police.

Community elder and leader Loc Lam OAM says the relocation of the unit close to its original location is not good enough.

The peak body of alcohol and other drug services, Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association (VAADA) acknowledged the additional safeguards by Monash Health.

It stated that Springvale continues to have a high need for the essential service, like many other areas in Victoria.

“There are a broad range of people using NSPs, with recent reports noting an explosion in demand for clean injecting equipment from people who are using performance and image enhancing drugs.

“Any narratives that may discourage people from using the NSP are condemned by VAADA and only run the risk of increasing health harms across the region.”

Councillor Sean O’Reilly, who has supported resident concerns, was on the fence about whether the relocation was a solution.

He could not say whether removing the NSP unit from the area completely would be considered a perfect solution, acknowledging its public health benefits.

“It’s all about how many collateral issues are caused by drug-dependent people in the area, it’s not the machine.”

He also encouraged more NSP units to be established in nearby suburbs around Springvale, saying the amount of NSP within Springvale is unfair and caters for drug users from other areas.

cation.

“It’s awful that schools now have to lock gates and have locked bike cages, and this still happened,” user Kat Fox said.

To avoid anything similar, the school will boost its vigilance for potential intruders. It will ensure the outside public won’t be able to see where the bikes are stored.

Just three hours before the alleged theft occurred, Mr Riley had sent out a newsletter reminding families not to bring in expensive personal items as they aren’t covered by the school’s insurance.

In the year ending in December 2025, theft is recorded as the second-most common offence in Greater Dandenong; theft from motor vehicle has topped the list with 2,837 offences recorded. According to the Crime Statistics Agency, theft from retail stores is also high on the list. If the bike is found again, Ali’s parents say it will be donated to the community.

Victoria Police is investigating.

*To conceal the identity of the student, a pseudonym name was used.

“There are public health benefits with it but Springvale shouldn’t have such a large catchment area.

“On the map of the

suburbs of people.”

He said not all drug users cause issues, but it’s just a few bad apples who created headaches for nearby businesses by leaving syringes on their doorsteps and on school grounds.

Glass-bin revolt simmers

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A Greater Dandenong Council report has recommended deferring plans for a $3.6 million rollout of glass-recycling kerbside bins due to the “cost of living crisis”

On Monday 15 June, the council will vote on the report’s recommendations, including to join a multi-council campaign against the state-mandated bin rollout.

It means the council will potentially reverse its approval of a glass-bin service by 1 July 2027.

“Since this time global and local issues have resulted in a cost of living crisis that is having an significant impact on the Greater Dandenong community, many of whom are already in economically vulnerable or disad-

vantaged situations,” the report stated.

“It is not considered appropriate or fair to further increase costs to residents at this current time.”

If the rollout is deferred, the council will “quarantine” $3.6 million for the rollout and save an estimated $1.5 million a year on collecting and processing the glass.

Greater Dandenong Council stated the costs for the waste service had been intended to be passed onto ratepayers in 2027-’28, not the upcoming rates bills in 2026-’27.

“If Council decides on Monday evening to defer the implementation of a new glass bin service, the costs of this waste service will not be charged to rate payers through the 202728 Annual Rate Notice,” chief financial officer Mark Burke said.

Currently more than 30 councils, including Kingston and Cardinia Shire, are calling for a review of the rollout.

They want the State Government to explore expanding the “successful” Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) to accept more varieties of glass such as wine and spirit bottles.

“Since its introduction, the CDS has been highly successful with much higher uptake rates than originally anticipated,” the Greater Dandenong report stated.

The separate glass-recycling bin was proposed to reduce broken glass contamination in the yellow-lidded co-mingled recycling bins and hence boost recycling rates.

“Glass … often breaks, which results in … all material in that bin ending up in landfill rather than being able to be recycled,” the council stated.

Sue Springfield OAM: Still serving after six decades and almost at age of 90

By Carmela Mendoza

Turning 88 next month, Sue Springfield has been named one of 475 recipients of the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) on the King’s Birthday, 8 June. With 60 years of continual volunteering, Springfield was awarded for her service to the communities of Springvale North and Mulgrave.

Her local volunteer work included being a coach and treasurer at Springvale Regional Netball Association from 1968-2000.

She was also a treasurer and canteen volunteer for 20 years at the Springvale Little Athletics Centre.

“What I’ve done with little athletics and netball, I couldn’t have done it without wonderful people beside me,” she said.

Springfield has volunteered at St John Vian-

ney’s Primary School in Mulgrave, stepping into various roles such as team manager, coach, treasurer and president of the school’s netball club (1968-’98).

Additionally, she was club manager, treasurer and president at the school’s little athletics club for 30 years as well as a member of the Mother’s Club.

She has also served the ladies auxiliary at John Hannah Hostel in Mulgrave for 33 years up until 2020, including a 15-year stint as canteen manager.

Springfield’s first taste of volunteering was at 10 years old, fundraising for not-for-profit disability service Scope alongside her friends and family.

She has since been recognised with numerous awards, including a four-time life member at the Springvale Regional Netball Association,

Springvale Regional Little Athletics Association, St John Vianney’s Little Athletics Club and St John Vianney’s Netball Club.

Despite her various recognitions, Springfield remains humble with her achievements.

“I think I am just an ordinary mum,” she said, “I did it for the children and my daughters.”

Her OAM award is expected to be formally presented at Government House in September and will be attended by the other Victorian recipients.

Receiving the award “means a lot, I did it for my children,” Springfield said.

Today, Springfield still volunteers as president of the St John Vianney Green and Brown Thumbs Garden Club, a position she’s held since 2013.

Her message to younger generations is to “volunteer and help wherever you can [for your community]”

However, the CDS also created “very low levels of contamination”.

The report also calls for Greater Dandenong to defer the state-mandated ‘opt-out’ model for Food and Garden Organics (FOGO) kerbside bins, saving about $500,000 on additional FOGO bins.

Currently, about 85 per cent of Greater Dandenong households with a kerbside waste collection have already ‘opted in’ for FOGO.

The council notes that it risks being fined $97,700 for failing to implement the FOGO and glass reforms.

The report also called for the State Government to release the glass bins’ business case to councils, as well as the relevant service standards.

World Cup on the big screens

The FIFA World Cup is screening live on big screens in Greater Dandenong and Casey.

The SBS free-to-air telecast, including the Australian Socceroos matches, will screen 24/7 in Harmony Square, Dandenong.

A Greater Dandenong spokesperson said non-Socceroos matches would be put on reduced volume for “very late at night or early in the morning”

Springvale Community Hub’s screen will also present World Cup matches, but not Socceroos games.

“These are not official ‘watch parties’ , such as those at Fed Square and AAMI Park,” the spokesperson said.

“We encourage local people watching in Harmony Square to bring their picnics, blankets and folding chairs and take their litter away with them.

“Harmony Square is an alcohol-free zone and a family-focused space. We encourage people to come with passion for the game and care for each other’s safety.”

Many World Cup games will also screen live at Bunjil Place, Narre Warren.

The World Cup, featuring 48 teams, is being hosted daily across Canada, Mexico and the US. It culminates in the final on Sunday 19 July.

Trader concerns remain

By Sahar Foladi

Dandenong Market has published a webpage on its upcoming Bazaar revitalisation project after traders raised a raft of concerns.

This is the first time the Dandenong Market Management have officially dedicated a communication platform solely to the public on the project.

Over past months, existing traders have called for compensation for loss of business and relocation costs.

They have also taken issue after the market issued Notice to Vacate notices without any guarantee of returning to their stalls.

Traders will have to reapply for stalls through Expression of Interest forms closer to the reopening of the area.

The market’s webpage says the project is about “investing in the Bazaar” to “attract new customers” and support small businesses with a new space designed to “improve the customer experience, create easier-to-shop aisles, support better accessibility, and provide more varied retail options and services.”

Artists’ impression graphics and a video tour on the webpage provide a polished, neat retail area, and the addition of food trucks and an open dining area.

Some of the planned improvements listed on the webpage includes better accessibility to customers, a dedicated entertainment and brand activation zone, a family-friendly space to eat and play, and opportunities for “new service offerings” like hair, beauty, massage and nails.

The market states that customers and traders were surveyed to “help shape the vision” to ensure their needs were met and the Bazaar’s heritage and character were retained.

Construction is expected to begin in September with a five to six-week disruption period. The Bazaar is said to be open for business until construction starts.

According to the Notices to Vacate to existing

traders, they are expected to vacate the area just before the construction can begin, with EOIs open for the new spaces post-construction.

Greater Dandenong councillor Rhonda Garad, who is also the councillors’ representative

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on the Dandenong Market Board, says there’s no reassurance or mention of the existing traders.

“It’s terribly short and lacking in information.

“Most of (the revitalisation) is technical changes to hardware infrastructure.”

Existing trader of 30 years, Leon Buchman, who has opposed the revitalisation, labelled the project “a complete disaster” five months ago.

His perception remains, saying the project potentially causes “irreversible” damage to the market’s cultural significance.

“The proposed Bazaar revitalisation, in its current form, is a high-risk, low-evidence, and poorly governed plan that prioritises a developer’s aesthetic fantasy over the economic and cultural reality of a working market.”

He says adding more services will fail at the Bazaar, after a past “failed” attempt to install a coffee and food truck trader.

Its “homogenised, theme-park aesthetic (is) devoid of the organic, sensory-rich, and spontaneous atmosphere that defines an authentic “bazaar” , Buchman says.

“The visual materials suggest narrower tenancies and a greater number of stalls within the same overall area,” he says.

“For a trader operating from such a space, trading conditions would become more difficult — less room for stock, fewer customers served at once, and reduced revenue potential.” He claims management constantly dodges concerned traders questions on potential rental increase and space reduction after the project is completed.

The Dandenong Market was contacted to comment on sizes of the stalls and rental increase after the project’s completion.

Tributes flow for Radical Records founder

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Scores of friends and customers have paid homage to the kindly, knowledgeable genius behind iconic Dandenong shop Radical Records.

Mark Mannens died last month after a long illness - which has led to an outpouring of love and even a Spotify playlist in his memory.

According to shop manager Dylan Lees, Mannens was “kind, dedicated and utterly selfless”, and not the type to mention his health woes.

Lees posted the news on social media, stating that Mannens “would’ve absolutely f***ing hated” all of the fuss but “was the most universally liked person I’ve ever met”.

“He was a person fortunate enough to be doing exactly what he wanted to do with his life.

“He’ll be sorely missed by everyone that he knew.”

Many commenters responded with fond words about Mannens, including the bands and genres they discovered and the great chats and learnings shared over the counter.

A former customer told of buying a Sex Pistols book from the shop with one-cent and two-cent pieces.

“He took the bag of coins, handed me the book and told me to get the f*** out of his shop.”

Since 1988, Radical Records has been a hidden treasure, long nestled in the quiet Hub arcade that Mannens likened to an 80s time warp.

The shop – particularly rare in these parts - became a bastion for fans of vinyl, CDs and record merch.

Unlike many outlets, it defied commercial threats such as streaming services and Covid lockdowns.

Lees says this is a result of Mannens’ great dedication.

“We have sold a lot of heavy music over the years but Mark was not particularly a metal-head.

“He started out as more of a Woodstock

Colleagues Mark Mannens and Dylan

at Radical Records shop in 2025. (Sahar

456864)

flower child. But he went with what the area demanded and he was adaptable in that way.”

Two years ago, Mannens spoke to Star News as Radical Records hosted a live performance by local band Hot Tubs Time Machine for World Record Day.

Mannens said that vinyl albums – which peaked in the 1970s – had made a comeback this century.

After a long hiatus, younger generations are discovering vinyl and adopting their parents’ tastes for Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Rolling Stones, Beatles and Black Sabbath, he said.

“There’s that physical aspect of something. And a warmth in the music that you might not get from CDs.

“And there’s also great artwork (on record covers) for old people like me to enjoy.”

Radical Records was recently put on the market due to Mannens’ ill-health, Lees says. Nothing has been announced yet, he said, but there are a “couple of very interested buyers” in the wings.

Centrally

$25K cost for council delegation

By Sahar Foladi

At a cost of about $25,000, eight Greater Dandenong councillors and officers will be attending the upcoming National General Assembly of Local Government (NGA) in Canberra this month.

The event, hosted by the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA), is the largest annual gathering for local government leaders.

It is touted as an opportunity for councils to advocate for better federal funding, policy reforms and forge effective partnerships with federal ministers and MPs.

Mayor Sophie Tan will attend a day ahead of the three-day conference, in order to attend meetings with MPs as part of the GSEM (Greater South East Melbourne) advocacy group.

Councillors Rhonda Garad, Alice Phuong Le, Bob Milkovic, Sean O’Reilly and Melinda Yim, as well as the council’s executive director strategy and corporate services, Marjan Hajjari and a community advocacy officer will be in attendance from 23-25 June.

The expected cost is almost $25,000.

It includes event and ceremony registration for all councillors at $7194 and accommodation costs of, on average, $800 for each councillor.

Five of the councillors were said to have secured flights for $449 each.

According to council staff reports brought to the 16 February council meeting this year, the estimated cost per delegate was set at approximately $3100 which included:

•$999 early bird registrations

•$200 General Assembly Dinner,

•$700 4-star three-night accommodation

• $500 incidentals (taxis/meals)

•$700 economy flights.

improve the lives of Greater Dandenong residents” in areas such as poverty reduction, transportation, major projects, and community safety, she said.

“The knowledge, networks and insights gained through attendance will support Council’s ongoing efforts to deliver effective services, advocate for local priorities, and respond to emerging challenges and opportunities within the Greater Dandenong community.”

During the visit, Greater Dandenong will also promote its inter-council Back Your Neighbour campaign to advocate for fair and compassionate policies for people seeking asylum.

“Greater Dandenong is home to the second-highest number of people living on bridging visas in Victoria and this important work is aligned with our advocacy priorities.”

More than 200 speeding drivers and 43 drug or drink drivers were nabbed in the South East during a police blitz on the King’s Birthday long weekend.

During Operation Regal, police officers detected 3311 speeding offences, 249 drink drivers and 144 drug drivers across Victoria.

The South East’s detection of 23 drug drivers, 20 drink drivers and 223 speeding drivers was roughly a tenth of the statewide totals.

There were also 11 seatbelt offences and 25 drivers using mobile phones in the region.

Police recorded seven serious injury collisions during the 5-8 June operation, but no fatalities in the South East.

The crashes were caused by speeding, impaired drivers and disobeying traffic signals, according to police.

Elsewhere in Victoria, there were two fatal collisions – a 30-year-old female passenger in a collision at Stanhope and a 72-year-old male motorcyclist in a collision at Wangaratta South on Saturday 6 June.

That’s a $300 reduction this year compared to last year’s $3,400 average cost.

These are only estimated costs with the overall costs to be finalised and published as mayoral and councillor expenses.

In comparison, neighbouring councils City of Casey and Cardinia Shire are sending much smaller delegations of three members each.

Casey is set to spend $2,800 each for Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen, Deputy Mayor Cr Michelle Crowther and CEO Glenn Patterson to attend.

Whilst Cardinia Shire Council didn’t provide an estimated cost, it’s expected to be similar to Casey’s.

Greater Dandenong’s strategy and corporate services manager Ms Hajjari says the council considers value of money when booking travel for Council business, saying this trip was a “worthwhile investment”

It gives the delegates direct opportunity to “ask other levels of government to help

BYN representatives, including community delegates with lived experience, will host a stall and meet with MPs, including:

•Isaacs MP Mark Dreyfus KC

•Holt MP Cassandra Fernando

•Allegra Spender, NSW Independent crossbencher

•Tim Watts, Special Envoy for Indian Ocean Affairs in the Albanese Government

•ALP backbencher Libby Coker, who also served as Surf Coast Shire councillor and twice-mayor

•Independent Zali Steggall in NSW

•ALP backbenchers Sarah Witty and Jerome Laxale, who also served as Mayor of the City of Ryde in NSW for five years, with a total of 10 years of local government experience.

In addition to the above, meetings are also confirmed with Federal Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, Dr Daniel Mulino and Moreton MP Julie-Ann Campbell.

A 17-year-old male motorcyclist was also killed in an off-road collision at Jeparit on Sunday afternoon.

Road Policing Assistant Commissioner, Mick Hermans said Operation Regal focused on roadside alcohol and drug testing, as well as speed, distraction, and unauthorised driving.

In total, there were 7221 traffic offences detected – up 20 per cent from last year’s King’s Birthday weekend.

“The reality is, we will only issue infringements when there is blatant non-compliance with the road rules,” Asst Comm Hermans said.

“We saw a significant uplift in infringements issued for speeding, impairment and distraction, and we know these behaviours are all leading contributing factors in fatal and serious injury collisions on our roads.”

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Respecting our teachers

Victoria’s teachers are finally set to receive pay rises of between 28 and 32 per cent over four years after months of strikes, negotiations and growing public pressure.

And truth be told… that is a positive step in the right direction, at least one of their concerns is being addressed.

Australia has been undervaluing one of the most important professions in society for far too long.

Somehow, we have reached a point where a person completing a six-week traffic management course can earn comparable - and sometimes higher - hourly rates than universitytrained professionals responsible for shaping the minds, behaviour and emotional wellbeing of our children.

That is not disrespect toward traffic controllers.

It is a serious question about societal priorities.

What does it say about us when the people entrusted to educate future doctors, engineers, nurses, tradespeople, entrepreneurs and leaders are increasingly exhausted, burnt out and dropping out of the profession?

For months Victorian teachers have been saying the same thing:

This was never just about money. It was about workload.

Burnout. Classroom behaviour. Staff shortages. Mental health. Administrative overload.

Thousands of teachers marched in Melbourne earlier this year during the first statewide strike in over a decade, with many arguing they were already among the lowest-paid teachers in the coun-

LOOKING BACK

100 years ago 17 June 1926

THE NEW MARKET

GETTING USED TO THINGS

By order of the Dandenong Shire Council, the new market at Clow Street was opened to the public last Tuesday. There was still a certain amount of confusion, due to the pig and calf pens being left on the old site. It is said that people can get used to anything, and all persons interested are rapidly becoming used to the present market conditions. These conditions are only temporary and by the time auctioneers, buyers and sellers have got properly into stride, the calf and pig pens will be established in Clow Street, and the offices will not be long in following. The dealers in fruit, vegetables and drapery, etc., are still carrying on in Lonsdale Street, and the change has apparently made little difference to them. In good time, they will not be sorry to move to Clow Street, when they will have proper facilities for the conduct of their business.

INTERFAITH

try while their workloads continued to escalate.

And anyone with friends or family in education can attest to that.

No teacher works “school hours!”

They are answering emails late at night.

Planning lessons on weekends.

Managing behavioural issues.

Writing reports.

Navigating parent expectations.

Supporting children carrying trauma, anxiety, neurodiversity and increasingly complex emotional needs.

Teachers today are not simply educators.

They are mentors. Counsellors. Social workers. Conflict mediators. Crisis managers… and parents.

And somehow we still casually throw around phrases like: “They get school holidays”

Truth be told… most work through their holidays to catch up and prepare for the next term. Many teachers spend those holidays recovering. Hence, the deeper issue, however, is not just salary, but far more than that.

It is status. When did teaching stop being viewed as one of society’s most noble professions?

There was once a time when teachers carried

50 years ago 14 June 1976 Guard of honor at funeral Former and past umpires and players of Dandenong Netball Association, together with sister Netball Clubs and Associations formed an honor guard at the funeral of Mrs Gloria Pyke. Mrs Pyke, who lived in Dandenong West, is survived by husband Joe and children Stephen, 23, Christine, 22, and Bruce, 19. Mrs Athorn, treasurer of the Dandenong District Netball Association, said: “Gloria was one of my closest friends. She played basketball (netball) for the Victorian Women’s Basketball Association in her school years, and her interest never waned. She lived locally since her marriage in the 1950s and gave many years to the Association as President, coach, umpire and advisor. She was a foundation member of the Dandenong Netball Umpires’ Association.” Mrs Athorn said Mrs Pyke’s other interests included 8th Dandenong North Scout Group, where her two sons had gained the honor of Queen’s Scouts, and the Australia Day Council where she served as treasurer.

How to learn from nature

By Ursula Aruma of the Sri Sathya Sai Organisation

In this article, we look to the early indicators of mental distress, and how you can respond.

Sometimes we find ourselves amongst friends or family, struggling with anxiety, great pain, and worry. These affect Man by making him feel hopeless or anxious, and sometimes withdrawn from friends and family, who you feel cannot help you or understand what you are going through.

You may feel confused and find difficulty in making the right decisions or lack concentration in your work. This will cause physical symptoms, like panicattacks,rapidheartbeat,breathingdifficulties, dizziness, headaches, fatigue or stomach cramps.

Try taking a break from these situations, change your environment, speak to a trustworthy friend or go outside for a bit of fresh air and a quiet walk.

We can learn much from Nature.

Looking at nature in a clean environment will give you happy thoughts.

enormous social respect. Parents backed them. Communities trusted them. Students understood boundaries.

Now many teachers feel unsupported from every direction.

Parents are overwhelmed. Schools are stretched. Behavioural issues are rising. Respect for authority is declining across society generally. And teachers are absorbing much of that pressure daily.

What struck us most while researching this issue was how many teachers no longer encourage young people to enter the profession themselves.

That should terrify us.

Because once talented, capable and emotionally intelligent people stop seeing teaching as worthwhile, the long-term consequences do not appear immediately.

They emerge over time. In classrooms. In workforce capability. In mental health statistics. In social cohesion. In crime rates. In leadership quality.

Education is not simply about curriculum. It is nation-building.

And perhaps this is where governments of all persuasions have failed.

We constantly speak about economic growth, productivity and innovation, yet rarely talk seriously about the human infrastructure required to sustain a healthy society.

Teachers are foundations of human infrastructure.

The people shaping emotional intelligence, communication, discipline, resilience and civic responsibility in the next generation.

Yet modern education systems increasingly feel reactive instead of visionary.

20 years ago 12 June 2006 HERE WE GO!

Hallam’s Socceroo legend backs our boys As a youngster growing up in Hallam, former Socceroo captain Paul Wade watched the Dandenong Redlegs play in the Victorian Football Association at Shepley Oval and was called a “poofter and a wog” by his schoolmates for playing soccer. As Australia prepares to take on Japan in its opening World Cup match tonight, Wade thinks the Socceroos should make it to the last 16 and Keysborough’s Vince Grella will play a key role. “He’s got everything. He can destroy an attack with a well-weighted pass and works very hard.” Now living in Sydney, Wade went to St Mary’s Primary and St John’s Secondary schools. “I played two years at Dandenong City and then two years at Doveton.” Wade went on to become captain of the Socceroos and achieved the rare feat of containing Argentinian football legend Diego Maradona in Australia’s loss in the 1994 World Cup qualifier.

Teachers are drowning in compliance, reporting, administrative requirements and policy changes while trying to hold together classrooms that are becoming socially and emotionally more complex every year.

No pay rise alone fixes that.

At the same time, society itself also needs reflection.

Children do not magically become disrespectful in classrooms. They absorb what they see around them.

Road rage. Online abuse. Polarised politics. Influencer culture. Aggressive public discourse.

The constant erosion of patience and accountability.

Schools are increasingly being asked to solve problems created far beyond school gates.

And teachers are expected to carry that emotional weight while somehow still delivering academic excellence.

The irony is this: almost every successful person can point to a teacher who changed their life.

A teacher who believed in them. Protected them. Inspired them. Saw potential in them before they saw it themselves.

Yet as adults, society often treats teachers as cost centres rather than nation builders.

That mindset has to change.

This new deal will make Victorian teachers among the highest paid in the country. But we still need to do more.

If we genuinely believe children are our future, then teachers should never have been fighting this hard simply to feel valued.

Truth be told… if we keep losing good teachers, eventually we lose far more than classrooms.

5 years ago

15 June 2021

Trees felled, power cut Severe storms downed dozens of trees and cut powerlines, leading to 120 SES callouts in the Greater Dandenong area in a 24-hour period. Southerly and south-easterly winds gusted more than 100 km/h, cutting power to more than 2300 properties in Springvale, Springvale North, Dandenong North, Noble Park North, Dandenong West, Dandenong South, Dandenong, Doveton and Endeavour Hills. Hardest hit were Endeavour Hills (700 properties), Springvale North (478), Noble Park North (374), Doveton (336) and Dandenong (251). A flood watch was active for Dandenong Creek, particularly at Heatherton Road and on June 10 rail commuters experienced delays after a tree fell across railway lines at Dandenong. Trains didn’t stop at Sandown Park due to flooding, and shuttle buses were deployed between Springvale and Noble Park.

muscular tension. Seeing or hearing about someone in distress can be really difficult to handle.

MESSAGE OF HOPE

Hearing birds sing, seeing pigeons picking at morsels on your front lawn, the swaying of beautiful trees in the wind or enjoying the flowers and roses in your garden or your neighbour’s garden. If you think of these happy thoughts, there is a lot to learn from Nature.

One of the most manageable ways to get rid of distress is through controlled breathing. Focus on taking deep breaths, feel your breath beneath your nostrils, as you sit quietly, and this mindfulness will help maintain serenity.

Do stretch exercises; perhaps use essential oils, e.g., lemongrass oil. These can be calming for

It is easy to recognise the distress by observing the actions of a person, who may display irritability, negativity, or chronic fatigue.

This may bring up some of your own painful memories, emotions or feelings.

Distress or anxiety can affect anyone and is a natural response to challenging situations.

When someone is in this emotional state, it is best not to ask too many questions.

Help the person if you feel they are experiencing mental health issues or having other alcohol or drug-related problems.

Hope the above can help reduce anxiety or stress in someone who is experiencing this. May we put an effort to make the world a better place to live in by always being compassionate and kind.

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

FOCUS ON ... EDUCATION ENROLMENTS

Grow, achieve and succeed

Great schools don’t just happen—they’re built through purposeful teaching, strong relationships, and a clear focus on what students need to succeed. Spring Parks Primary School is a great example of this in action.

In many classrooms, it begins with getting the basics right. Programs like Phonics Plus support students to develop strong reading foundations, building the confidence and skills they need for future learning. The use of Victorian Lesson Plans also helps teachers deliver consistent, well-structured lessons, ensuring learning time is used effectively.

Of course, learning goes well beyond literacy and numeracy. Students benefit from a broad and engaging curriculum. Areas like Science and Design Technology promote curiosity and problem-solving, while specialist subjects

such as Mandarin, Performing Arts, Physical Education, and Visual Arts allow students to explore their interests, build confidence, and express themselves in different ways.

Student wellbeing is just as important. Schools are increasingly recognising the strong link between mental health and learning. Dedicated roles, such as a Mental Health in Primary Schools Leader, help guide whole-school wellbeing approaches. Initiatives like UCLF wellbeing dogs contribute to calm, supportive environments where students feel safe and ready to learn. A cyber safety program, led by school leadership, also equips students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

Supporting teachers to continually improve their practice is another key focus. When

teachers have access to quality professional learning, along with the time and resources to apply it, it makes a real difference in the classroom. Ongoing development ensures teaching remains evidence-based, responsive, and aligned with what works best for students.

At the heart of it all is student learning. By keeping this as the priority—through strong teaching, targeted support, and a commitment to continuous improvement—schools create environments where every student has the opportunity to grow, achieve, and succeed.

Spring Parks Primary School students have the opportunity to grow, achieve, and succeed.

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Empowering every student to reach their full potential

Discover Hampton Park Secondary College, a vibrant, inclusive community dedicated to nurturing confident, capable learners. We celebrate diversity and empower every student to reach their full potential. Our innovative environment combines academic excellence with specialised sporting academies, inspiring career pathways, and a strong focus on cultural pride.

Our modern STEM Centre provides innovative learning spaces that inspire creativity and handson learning in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Our commitment to inclusion was recently recognised with the Secretary Marrung Award for Positive Climate for Learning, celebrating our outstanding support of First Nations students and families.

Our senior school has a proud record of academic success, empowering students to achieve their personal best and pursue their future path-

ways with confidence. With 99 per cent of VCE students successfully completing their studies and 60 per cent achieving an ATAR above 60, our results compare strongly with local secondary colleges. We are proud to celebrate our VCE College Dux, Estelle Foo Soo Chan, who achieved an out-

standing ATAR of 94.75, alongside our VCE Vocational Major College Dux, Ezekiel Tafu, and Victorian Pathways Certificate College Dux, Aditi Singh. Their exceptional achievements reflect the dedication,supportandexcellencethatdefinelearningat Hampton Park Secondary College.

Students can access Sporting Academies in Rugby League and Soccer, along with a variety of vocational pathways, providing valuable industry experience and career opportunities. Our partnership with Melbourne Victory FC also offers elite soccer training and development pathways.

Guided by our values of Respect, Learning and Working Together, Hampton Park Secondary College provides an inclusive, innovative and supportive environment where every student is empowered to succeed.

To support smooth transitions to high school, our Grade 5 Taster Days give primary students a taste of high school life, encouraging engagement and confidence.

Join us at Hampton Park Secondary College, where opportunity, diversity, and academic excellence come together to prepare students for success in a changing world.

For four decades, Hampton Park Secondary College

FOCUS ON ... EDUCATION ENROLMENTS

A school of possibilities

At Dandenong High School, our focus is to provide every learner a chance to thrive and have success, and we pride ourselves on the strong connections we hold in our community.

We offer the breadth of opportunities that come with being a large school but remain deeply committed to maintaining a small school feel. Through our unique House model, every student is known, valued, and supported. Our dedicated staff ensure that each learner receives the individual attention they need to succeed, creating a sense of belonging

and connection for all.

Students learn in state-of-the-art facilities designed to foster creativity and passions. From our award-winning STEM and Design Centre to the modern Food Technology spaces, students have access to resources that support both academic and applied learners to reach their potential.

We offer a wide range of academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular programmes to cater to the varied interests and aspirations of our students. Whether it’s excelling in en-

gineering and science through the Design Engineering Academy, exploring the arts or performance in our upcoming musical, The Wiz, being chosen as part of the Melbourne Victory Soccer Academy, or developing leadership skills through our strong Student Leadership; every student is encouraged to discover their unique pathway and have success at and beyond school.

Recently, we hosted prospective students and parents, showing learning in action through STEM, Food, Drama, and instrumen-

tal music performances. We also held our annual Careers Expo, bringing together representatives from universities, vocational providers, and industry, and offering destination opportunities for our Senior students.

At Dandenong High School, we are proud of our achievements and the strong sense of community that underpins everything we do. Whether you are a prospective student, a parent, or a community member, you are invited to tour the school and find out about our vibrant community.

FOCUS ON ... EDUCATION ENROLMENTS

Nurturing success

At Lyndale Secondary College, we recognise that every student is an individual and strive to ‘treat every child as our own.’ We set high standards, encourage hard work, and support our students to achieve their very best.

Serving the Dandenong and broader community for decades, Lyndale has built a strong culture of learning, respect and aspiration. We aim to see all our students flourish and complete Year 12 equipped with the knowledge, skills, and attributes needed to achieve their future ambitions.

High standards for learning, attendance and behaviour underpin daily life at Lyndale, and our excellent results in these areas reflect our unwavering commitment. Students benefit from a comprehensive support structure that prioritises wellbeing alongside academic achievement, with dedicated programs for course selection, career planning and personal development.

With an enrolment of approximately 900 students, Lyndale offers the advantages of a large,diverseschoolwhilemaintainingastrong sense of belonging. Our teaching and learning is driven by data, centred on every individual student, and focused on stretching each learner to reach their potential. The results reflect this commitment: in 2025, more Lyndale students achieved high or medium growth in NAPLAN than students at similar schools, across every domain, from Reading and Numeracy to Writing, Spelling, and Grammar.

Students can access a broad curriculum, specialist learning areas, modern facilities and a wide range of co-curricular opportunities. Ongoing staff professional development ensures teaching practices remain engaging, relevant and future-focused.

Together, these elements support students’ academic, cultural, creative, social and sporting growth, preparing them to thrive in an ev-

Threatening our forests

By Carmela Mendoza

Crime Stoppers Victoria and the Conservation Regulator have launched the Illegal Firewood: The Cost is Wild campaign to address the emerging crime in the state’s forests.

This campaign supports the Conservation Regulator’s ongoing efforts, through its statewide initiative Taskforce Ironbark, to target organised crime syndicates destroying Victoria’s forests and national parks.

Content across Crime Stoppers Victoria’s social media platforms will direct Victorians to a campaign webpage with information on illegal firewood collection and how to report suspicious activity.

Illegal felling of large trees for firewood has been identified at Bow-Worrung State Forest, north of Stratford in eastern Gippsland.

Offenders had driven off the designated tracks and into the forest, targeting mature trees.

More than a dozen have been cut down, leaving large, exposed stumps and scattered wood debris.

The trees found in this forest are stringybark, a hardwood commonly used for firewood.

The cutting and targeting of this specific tree is consistent with illegal firewood collection.

Recent footage captured in the Bow-Worrung State Forest highlights the impact, showing an example of areas of native habitat left degraded.

Stringybark forests in this part of Gippsland provide habitat for a range of species including the greater glider, yellow-bellied glider and powerful owl.

Illegal firewood is impacting forests across the state, particularly parts of eastern Gippsland, north of Shepparton, in the Otways, and the Grampians.

Around 9,000 trees are illegally removed from Victorian forests and national parks each year.

Much of that timber is sold as firewood to unsuspecting buyers.

Since July last year, Taskforce investigations into illegal firewood collection have led to 54 charges heard, with offenders facing court convictions, fines and the seizure of trailers and chainsaws.

Legal firewood is typically sourced from plantations, commercial suppliers or private land with appropriate permits.

Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Stella Smith is encouraging Victorians to check their firewood has been legally sourced and report any suspicious activity.

“Saving money on cheap firewood is not worth contributing to the destruction of forests and wildlife habitat that should be protected for future generations,” Ms Smith said.

“If you do not know where your firewood has come from, you cannot be sure it has been

sourced legally.

“People often think they are simply buying cheap firewood, but in some cases, they may be unknowingly supporting environmental crime or even organised crime.

“It is important to buy firewood from legal sellers because it ensures that the wood has been sourced legally and sustainably.

“It protects Victoria’s forests and native wildlife and it supports responsible businesses doing the right thing.

“It helps stop illegal operators profiting from environmental damage.”

Victorians are being encouraged to buy from reputable suppliers, ask where the firewood was sourced and request a receipt with a business name and ABN.

Victorian Environment Minister Enver Erdo-

gan said many Victorians may not realise the role they play when purchasing unverified firewood.

“Our forests are home to unique wildlife and ecosystems that have taken generations to grow. Illegal firewood collection by criminal operators destroys these shared spaces, stripping landscapes of beauty and habitat and impacting the experience for all Victorians,” Mr Erdogan said.

Acting Chief Conservation Regulator Callie Donaldson said community information plays an important role in identifying and disrupting illegal activity.

“We’re targeting criminal networks that are cutting down commercial quantities of trees in our forests,” Ms Donaldson said.

“By reporting suspicious firewood activity and choosing legally sourced firewood, the community can help us stop the damage being caused by illegal firewood operators,” Ms Donaldson said.

“These criminals are driven by profit, at the direct expense of our forests and the wildlife that rely on them.”

Suspicious behaviour, including chainsaws operating in forests late at night, or sellers unable to verify where the wood was sourced, can be reported anonymously to Crime Stoppers.

Reports relating the illegal take or sale of firewood can be made at crimestoppersvic.com.au or 1800 333 000

Introducing your School Principal

Lyndale Secondary College Principal, Pam Robinson, is passionate about creating a school environment where every student feels supported, challenged and inspired to succeed. With a strong focus on student wellbeing and high expectations for learning, she leads a community committed to helping young people reach their full potential.

At Lyndale, leadership is grounded in collaboration, respect and inclusion. The College embraces innovation while remaining deeply connected to its community, ensuring students are equipped with the skills, confidence and adaptability needed for life beyond school.

Pam believes that strong relationships between students, families and staff are key to success and is proud of the College’s diverse and vibrant learning culture. By investing in both academic excellence and personal growth, Lyndale continues to empower students to become capable, resilient and future-ready learners.

Lyndale Secondary College 14 Halton Rd, Dandenong North 03 9795 2366 lyndale.vic.edu.au

Susan joined Dandenong High School as a graduate teacher and was appointed Principal in 2012. Since then, she has guided the community through significant cultural change and ongoing improvement, to a place in 2026 where students feel connected and supported to achieve their potential. She is especially proud that last year the school recorded strong gains in attendance, NAPLAN, VCE, and Attitudes to School data.

Susan believes education is empowering and that learning is strongest when students feel safe, happy, and included. With her dedicated team, she has worked consistently to build this culture. In 2026, our twenty Year 12 Student Leaders work hard to ensure all students feel connected and successful. Led by our Executive Student Leaders, Elaha, Adam, Ethrath, Uarda, Anisa and Daniel, they inspire all students to show courage and action, leading events and fundraising initiatives such as the Model UN, the PushUp Challenge and the Big Freeze Earlier this year, they attended the leadership camp, where they explored Canberra, developed their own leadership, and set clear goals for the legacy they will leave. Each day they live out our school’s values and encourage all to strive for success.

Susan works closely with our leaders and is proud to lead the diverse Dandenong High School community. She continues fostering inclusive practices, high expectations, and partnerships that strengthen wellbeing, engagement, and achievement across the school.

At Hampton Park Secondary College, leadership is more than a title — it is a commitment to growth, inclusion, and positive change. As the College celebrates its 40th anniversary, the 2026 Captains — Truc Nguyen, Sudammi Mudalige, Emmanuel Lacomel and Nayab Nawrozi — embody the values that shape the school community.

Truc Nguyen champions respectful relationships, pride, and equality, creating materials to support inclusive events. Sudammi Mudalige strengthens student voice and mentors younger students. Emmanuel Lacomel engages peers through arts, clubs, and school events that foster connection and spirit. Nayab Nawrozi supports student wellbeing through mentoring, peer mediation, and peer-topeer tutoring initiatives.

Together, these student leaders reflect a school community where ideas are heard, diversity is celebrated, and potential is nurtured.

Principal Wayne Haworth expressed his pride in the school’s recent achievements, noting that Hampton Park Secondary College has recorded its highest senior school results in the College’s 40-year history.

“Over the past few years, we have implemented a range of structures, processes, and strategies designed to engage, challenge, and enhance learning outcomes. Combined with high expectations, this has resulted in the College achieving its strongest senior results in four decades. This success is a testament to the hard work of our students and the outstanding commitment of our teaching and support staff.”

Bridging the healthcare gap

Finding timely, affordable healthcare shouldn’t feel like a hurdle. For families in our local community, staying on top of everyday wellness just got significantly easier. Pharmacy 777 Springvale is proud to offer a truly integrated, one-stop health destination right on Heatherton Road, combining expert pharmacy care with on-site medical services seven days a week.

At the heart of this service is our commitment to accessible community care. To support you and your family, our in-pharmacy medical clinic provides fully bulk-billed appointments for a range of essential health needs. Whether you are managing a chronic condition, need a general health check, or require routine medical administration, our team of qualified health professionals is here to ensure you get the care you need without the financial stress.

To deliver a comprehensive healthcare experience, we also feature a General Practitioner (GP) on-site. Having a GP directly within the pharmacy creates a seamless bridge between your doctor and your pharmacist. It allows for immediate collaboration, streamlined medication reviews, and ultimate continuity of care. Please note that while many of our core clinic services are bulk-billed, a small out-of-pocket fee applies for specific GP consultations. Health is a collaborative effort. By bringing doctors, nurse practitioners, and pharmacists under one roof, we are eliminating the gap between getting diagnosed and receiving treatment.

Visit Us Today: Pharmacy 777 Springvale is located at Shop 2 & 3, 792-806 Heatherton Road, Springvale South. We are open from 8:30am to 8:00pm every single day, including weekends and public holidays.

Walk in or book your next appointment online to experience convenient, community-first healthcare.

Dr Mamun Khan.

Migrant blame ‘misdirected’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

At the start of Refugee Week, Greater Dandenong mayor Sophie Tan and other leaders have come to the defence of the region’s “proud” diversity and multiculturalism.

In response to intensified calls to reduce migration, Cr Tan said there was a “loud minority” who were hostile to migrants.

But most residents were “very compassionate” about the challenges faced by migrants and people seeking asylum, she said.

“Times are tough and money and security are hard to come by.

“Sometimes people misdirect blame for this towards migrants, particularly new arrivals.

“The reason for tough times is complex, and blame shouldn’t be directed to one factor only.

“Migrants play a vital role in Australia’s economy and society.”

Cr Tan pointed to Greater Dandenong’s unique make-up - more than half of its residents were born overseas.

It is home to the state’s second-highest number of residents on bridging visas.

She said as part of Refugee Week, we should remember “these people are your neighbours” and “they are real people”

“Even some of the councillors you voted for to represent you are migrants and refugees.

“This could easily be your family, and they are not the reason for the hardships you face.”

Bruce MP and Assistant Multicultural Affairs Minister Julian Hill called for a “sense of mutual respect to our fellow Australians whatever their background” in political discourse and social media.

He said a “too charged” public debate could be “polarising” and negatively impact people’s sense of safety and belonging.

“That is why it is important we keep our national conversation grounded in facts and respect and not take the bait and turn on each other.

“At a time when many democracies around the world are experiencing increasing division and growing pressures on social cohesion - getting to know one another, inviting someone over for a meal and sharing cultures is the antidote.”

Mr Hill said migration had been “a bit too high post Covid” , leading to the Government changing policy settings “inherited from the Morrison Government”.

“As a result, net overseas migration has now fallen by over 45 per cent since its peak and will fall further.”

He said the “vast majority” who applied to come to Australia as refugees were refused due to “capacity limits”

“But we can value those lucky enough to come here - they’re some of our most entrepreneurial Australians who have a crack at starting business-

crossroads” as a result of “repeating the same failed politics of fear, punishment and exclusion”

She said migrants and refugees were “too often being used as scapegoats” when people were struggling with the cost of living, housing shortages, and access to healthcare.

“Targeted and demonising language makes people who have already experienced persecution, detention, family separation and trauma feel even more unsafe.

“The danger of hostile political language is that it does not stay in Parliament. It filters into workplaces, schools, neighbourhoods and services. It shapes how people are treated in the real world.

“Political leaders must stop acting as though cruelty is a measure of strength.

nity is afraid” of One Nation getting into power.

But he didn’t believe there was enough voter support to elect a One Nation MP in the South East.

He says “small numbers” of refugees are being unfairly blamed for the housing crisis.

“The housing crisis started 10 years before now. I don’t accept refugees are causing the crisis.”

Greater Dandenong Council has been leading an inter-council campaign, Back Your Neighbour, on behalf of people seeking asylum – many of whom don’t have work rights or access to basic services.

Many, as a result, live in poverty and depend on help from local services.

es and work hard to build the country and give their kids a better life.

“Refugee Week recognises the contributions that refugees make, and of the values of fairness and decency that we all share.”

Asylum Seeker Resource Centre deputy chief executive Jana Favero said Australia was “at a

“Real political strength and courage means telling the truth that refugees and people seeking asylum are the same as everyone else - they are just looking for safety, family, stability and the chance to rebuild their lives.”

Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre deputy chair Wicki Wickiramasingham said the “commu-

Rising anxiety reported by AMES

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Refugee and migrant communities are reporting rising anxiety due to the highly charged political debate on migration.

In April and May, migrant settlement agency AMES Australia surveyed 35 community leaders in 21 migrant and refugee groups about the rising anxiety levels.

In response, 91 per cent of the leaders thought the political narrative was fueling the fear.

The Middle East conflict (82 per cent), cost of living (71 per cent), finding meaningful work (42 per cent) and housing (46 per cent) were other factors.

Communities from Africa, China and the Middle East were the most worried about the political debate, AMES reported.

Most leaders reported higher anxiety levels than the general community, but on the other hand, their community members were generally happy with their lives in Australia.

South Sudanese community leader ‘Elizabeth’ , who responded to the AMES survey, said the migration debate was “scary”

“When we hear politicians talking about migrants in negative ways, we worry that we will not be welcome here in Australia,” she said.

“The rising cost-of-living is also a big issue in my community. And the rise in fuel prices has made this worse.”

AMES chief executive Melinda Collinson said the survey results showed the need to protect social cohesion and build relationships between

communities.

“It’s clear there is stress building in some of our newest communities because of these factors.

“We all need to recognise this and do all we can to make sure everyone in Australia feels welcome and supported.”

In recent months, some political parties have blamed migration rates for greater road congestion, unaffordable housing and stagnating wages.

United Australia Party has pledged “zero immigration” (but for family reunions or workers for nationally-significant projects).

“We cannot take more people without collapsing our economy and social infrastructure” ,

its campaign material states.

One Nation has vowed to cut immigration by 570,000 people, and the Liberal-National Coalition has also promised to cut numbers.

At the same time, the Coalition and One Nation have pledged to restore temporary protection visas and to deport “illegal migrants”

The Coalition plans to refuse or cancel visas for people failing to uphold “Australian Values”

The Federal Government argues that it has reduced net overseas migration by more than 45 per cent since a post-Covid peak in 2022.

During Refugee Week, AMES has released a list of ‘10 facts about refugees you should know’

It states that refugees contribute more to Aus-

“Most of our families have direct experience or understanding of what it means to leave everything behind and come to a new country, often in trying circumstances.

“Many of us, who were born here, have not had it easy and can appreciate how hard securing jobs, food, housing and medical care would be without a Medicare card or Centrelink payment.”

tralia’s economy than they receive from services.

Success stories include chef Luke Nguyen, science educator Karl Kruszelnicki, artist Mirka Mora, comedian Ahn Do and scientist Sir Gustav Nossal.

“While there are upfront settlement costs, over time this fuels growth, stimulates local economies, and helps offset the impacts of an aging population.

More than half are employed after one year, 70 per cent after four years.

‘Refugees are twice as likely to start a business than locally born people.”

They also fill labour shortages in the care industry, manufacturing, retail, hospitality, transport, tourism and education.

Australia accepts 20,000 refugees a year – one of the highest per capita in the world.

“They come to Australia not to take jobs and housing but because life in their homelands is untenable,” AMES stated.

Fighting for democracy

By Sahar Foladi

A public seminar in Dandenong on Myanmar’s civil war and ongoing humanitarian crisis has called for a greater role from the Australian Government.

The seminar, hosted by the Australia Multicultural Media Centre alongside Chin-Myanmar Community Care, featured academics, community leaders, activists, and representatives from the National Unity Government (NGU) and Chin National Front.

The seminar on 4 June aimed to raise awareness on the current situation in Myanmar and to explore pathways for democracy, human rights, peace, and federalism.

Since a 2021 military coup, the country’s 135 officially recognised ethnic groups have reportedly seen an escalation in the civil war, human rights violation and a collapsing economy.

Melbourne houses the largest (10,000) Chin ethnic minority from Myanmar out of the 22,844 residents from broader Burmese ancestries.

Jacob Thang, the executive director of ChinMyanmar Community Care and also a refugee, helped build the not-for-profit organisation providing support services to the community here and humanitarian relief for displaced communities in Myanmar and India.

“For members of the Chin community, what is happening in Myanmar is not a distant political matter - it is a lived humanitarian crisis that directly touches our families, friends, and loved ones.

“Millions of people have been displaced from their homes, and many continue to face immense hardship in accessing food, healthcare, education, and basic services.

“The suffering unfolding in Myanmar causes deep grief and concern within our community

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here in Australia.

“While we genuinely appreciate the humanitarian support Australia has provided, many of us feel that the scale and severity of this crisis calls for a stronger, more sustained, and more visible international response.”

He says the diaspora want to see expanded humanitarian assistance, including funding for organisations delivering aid, increased humanitarian visas and to champion for peace, democracy and human rights at every opportunity.

Delegate Victor Sang Khambil is a human rights advocate and a leader in the Burmese Chin diaspora based in Canada.

He serves as the deputy secretary of foreign affairs for the Chin National Front (CNF), a political organisation that fights the Myanmar government to seek a federal union based on self-determination.

In 2001, he became the first Burmese Chin asylum seeker to approach the United Nations

Open day is coming up

By Early Learning Victoria

Early Learning Victoria Laak is hosting an open day on Saturday 20 June, 9.30am–11.30am at 36 Harmer Road, Hallam (co-located with Hallam Primary School).

Our open day will provide an opportunity to tour the centre and meet our skilled and experienced educators.

If you are looking to enrol your child, you can find out more about Early Learning Victoria’s high-quality childcare and integrated kinder programs.

If you are looking to grow your career as a qualified, skilled or new early learning or support professional by working in an organisation where children’s needs come first, you can speak to our friendly team to learn more.

Government-run, Early Learning Victoria Ngalambi offers welcoming and inclusive spaces that support learning and development for all.

We can’t wait to meet you and show you around!

Find out about enrolling your child at earlylearning.vic.gov.au/laak

Learn more about working with us at earlylearning.vic.gov.au/jobs

If you have any questions, call Early Learning Victoria’s general hotline at 03 9057 4444 or email elv@education.vic.gov.au (for workforce enquiries, general hotline option 2 or elv.workforce@ education.vic.gov.au).

High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

Since then, he has assisted Chin refugees in their applications to the UNHCR, kick-started his advocacy and greater support to the refugee and asylum seekers in Malaysia.

He speaks of the discrimination the Chin people face under the government.

“In Myanmar, they have an identity card that mentions their nationality, ethnicity and religion.

“So, wherever you go, if the authorities check your ID, they would directly pull people out of the bus or the train.

“The Chin state has the least developed infrastructure, education and overall systems.”

He says, this is done on purpose, to direct those who can’t afford a formal education into free education provided by the monasteries, in which predominantly Christian children are taught Buddhism.

Myanmar introduced conscription law in 2024, only heightening the pleas of the communi-

ties here.

“Australia is the only country, the only country in the world right now, who is accepting refugee from Malaysia and if they close (their doors), then the entire world will be closed for the Chin refugees.”

Officially recognised as the longest-running internal conflict of almost 80 years, many such as Dr Lian Hmung Sakhong have been fighting their entire life for democracy.

A prominent Chin scholar, activist and politician, he currently serves as the Union Minister of Ministry of Federal Union Affairs at the National Unity Government (NUG)

The NUG is an internationally unrecognised provisional government in exile formed by the lawmakers ousted in the 2021 military coup.

He is also the Vice Chairman of the CNF.

“Our country was a parliamentary democratic system. It was not perfect, but democratic,” Dr Sakhong says.

“People could enjoy life, and then during that time, Bamar (Burma) was known as the Rice Bowl of Asia (largest rice exporter), one of the richest countries in Asia. But it’s now the poorest, most problematic.

“Currently, we’re fighting, we’re changing, we are in the midst of a revolution and we are sure to be the winner soon. The people will win.

“So, we have to prepare for it and my job is to implement a federal democratic constitution as soon as we are able to remove the regime.”

He says he almost made history to end the 75 years of ethnic armed conflict in Burma but that was abruptly disturbed by the military coup in February 2021.

The delegates also travelled to Canberra to meet federal ministers and MPs on the topic and work towards a solution.

Bringing 50 years of care

For over 50 years, Outlook Christian Living has served the community through aged care and retirement living, building a trusted reputation grounded in Christian compassion, integrity, and service.

Today, they are proud to extend that legacy with the launch of their Support at Home services, supporting more people to remain living independently in the comfort of their own homes.

The Outlook Christian Living team believe care is more than a service; it is a commitment to dignity, independence, and genuine human connection. As more Australians seek to age in place, the need for compassionate, reliable, and personalised support has never been greater.

Outlook Christian Living Home Care is designed to support individuals to live well, safely, and confidently in familiar surroundings.

Whether it is assistance with daily tasks, clinical care, transport to appointments, or simply a friendly face and conversation, their team is dedicated to walking alongside each person with respect and understanding.

Outlook Christian Living Home Care also recognises that navigating the aged care system can feel complex and overwhelming. That is why they prioritise guidance and clarity, helping individuals and families to understand their options and access the support they need. They take the time to listen, understand unique circumstances, and tailor services that truly make a difference. At Outlook Christian Living, care is personal, purposeful, and centred on the individual, continuing a legacy of service and care that spans generations.

• For further information, call 9795 7566 or visit their website at outlookcl.com.au

WHAT’S ON

Extraordinary Stories

Showcasing treasured objects, artworks, and recorded stories from the Greater Dandenong Civic and Cultural Collection. It highlights Greater Dandenong’s past and present while revealing its evolving community identity. Opening event on Thursday 18 June, 12pm-12.45pm - registrations required.

• Wednesdays and Thursdays 10am-2pm (until 27 August) at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong; free event.

Microwave Bowl Cosy workshop

Start with a hands-on intro to sewing machine basics, then create your own microwave safe bowl cosy, perfect for handling hot dishes with ease. For ages 16 years and older.

• Thursday 18 June, 1pm-4pm or 5.30pm-8.30pm at Springvale Library, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Registration required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/eventdetail/ev_618a6726e4ba4e8a95806a25cfc8 917c

Biodiversity Day at Myuna Farm

Come and celebrate International Day for Biodiversity. A train ride to wetlands, where you can meet flying foxes and watch them fly out at sunset. Frog calls and water bugs activities.

• Thursday 18 June, 4.30pm-6.30pm at Myuna Farm, Kidds Road, Doveton; free event. Bookings: trybooking.com/DLBDC

Glass Art workshop

Beginner-friendly glass painting workshop introduces you to working with transparent colours. For ages 16-plus.

• Thursday 18 June, 6.30pm-8pm at Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free event. Registration required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ ev_dc1b86327cf7405eb877fb6cba03b16c

Play in the Plaza

Join the Festive Tribe for free fun, creative play every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday until 27 June. Includes an MO-scape and outdoor play zone. Ideal for young children, including preschoolers.

• Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 27 June at Palm Plaza, McCrae Street, 10am-2.30pm; free event. No bookings required.

Mandala Painting

General Notices

FIFA World Cup screenings

Screened 24/7 at Harmony Square, Dandenong and selected games live on the Bunjil Place outdoor screen in all weather. Bring your own seating, rugs, and/or picnic. No alcohol.

• daily until Sunday 19 July; free entry. No registration required. Details: bunjilplace.com.au/ news/fifa-world-cup-on-big-screen

With Phil Martin. Create intricate patterns using bold colours, leave with an impactful piece of art.

• Friday 19 June, 9.15am at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park; $5. Bookings essential at socialplanet.com.au/activity/ view?id=50704

Meditation for Beginners

Learn to relax your neck and shoulder muscles, along with the Miracle of Mind meditation. No previous experience is needed. Please bring yoga mat and comfortable clothing.

• Saturday 20 June, 10am-10.45am at Keysborough Community Hub, 10 Villiers Road, Keysborough; free activity. Registrations essential at online4.sadhguru.org/program-finder/aumel/ beginner%20program

Springvale Winter Fest

Springvale transforms into a magical winter-themed carnival and multicultural food festival. Includes snowfall experience, neon light display, snow globes, Howling Husky dogs, rides, live cooking demonstration, stalls and live performances.

• Sunday 21 June 11am-6pm at Buckingham Avenue, Springvale; free event.

Yoga for Wellbeing (beginners)

Learn simple and helpful movements to support your body, gentle arm movements to loosen your joints and muscles, and Yoga Namaskar, a basic yoga practice that helps keep your body strong, especially your back and spine. Suitable for ages 7 and over. Children must attend with an adult.

• Sunday 21 June, 1pm-2pm at Keysborough Community Hub, 10 Villiers Road, Keysborough; free event. Registrations essential at

online4.sadhguru.org/program-finder/aumel/ beginner%20program

International Yoga Day

Presented by Saathi Multicultural Association Of Australia. All levels are welcome.

• Sunday 21 June 2pm-3pm at Lynbrook Community Centre, 2 Harris Street, Lynbrook; free event. Bookings: trybooking.com/DKXUN

Thoppukarnam

Also known as Super Brain Yoga, stretches the spinal cord, activates the brain, balances the right and left sides of the brain, and exercises the body. Helps with mild depression and anxiety. Beneficial for children, especially those with disabilities like autism, dyslexia, ADD, and adults with Alzheimer’s disease. Suitable for ages 7-plus. Children must attend with an adult.

• Sunday 21 June, 2.30pm-3pm at Keysborough Community Hub, 10 Villiers Road, Keysborough; free event. Registrations essential at online4.sadhguru.org/program-finder/aumel/ beginner%20program

Pet Drawing

Try your hand at sketching your furry (or feathered) friend with facilitator Maroulla’s guidance, all materials provided, bring your own pet photos for reference. Or bring along your own art and craft projects such as painting, sewing, collage, or origami. All welcome.

• Wednesday, 24 June, 6.30pm-8pm at Springvale Library, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Sewing Machine Basics

Hands-on intro to sewing machine basics, then create a stylish boxed, lined zipper pouch. For ages 16 years and older.

• Thursday 25 June, 1pm-4pm and 5.30pm8.30pm at Springvale Library, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Registration required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/ event-detail/ev_3b84829c490544a3a1f1859 7b35d2e96

Neighbourhood BBQ

Come along and bring a neighbour or two to our family friendly evening. Have fun and connect with others in a casual setting. Free sausage sizzle (halal options available) and free kids’ activities.

• Thursday 25 June 4pm-6pm at Autumn Place Community Hub, Autumn Place, Doveton; free event.

Differing tale for two foes

By David Nagel

The fluctuating fortunes of Rowville and Noble Park will collide at Seebeck Oval on Saturday after the Hawks maintained their push to the pointy end of the ladder and the Bulls continue the search for their first victory of the season.

Rowville’s quest for a double chance in September received a huge boost after the Hawks scored a comfortable 14.14(98) to 7.12(54) win on a road trip to Balwyn.

Only half a game separated the two teams heading into the clash; Rowville sitting second and Balwyn fourth.

The Tigers had the first on the board inside 60 seconds, but Rowville soon took control of the first quarter.

Jordan Jaworski tied things up with a set shot after some great set-up play from Lachie McDonald, before Mav Taylor gave the visitors the lead after receiving a dubious free kick for blocking.

Nathan Oakes then answered for the Tigers, before goals to McDonald and Blake Chambers - the result of a great tackle - gave the Hawks a 16-point lead at quarter time.

Rowville maintained its ascendency in the second term with Lachie Stapleton and Matt Davey converting set shots on goal.

Davey’s six-pointer came after another highpressure tackle in the front half; a theme of the day that really worked well for the Hawks.

Oakes once again converted for the Tigers, but when Jaworski slammed one through after a precision pass from Chambers, the Hawks were 29 points ahead at the major intermission.

The Hawks then locked away the premiership points with the only three goals of the third term, with Taylor, Lachie Wynd and Seth Macdonald taking the game out of the Tigers’ reach.

Wynd kicked the first of the final quarter, stretching the advantage to 52 points; game over!

Chambers, Jaworski, Taylor and Wynd all booted two each for Rowville, while McDonald and Anthony Brolic were rock-solid performers through the midfield.

Kane Young stood tall across half back for the Hawks, who will go in as red-hot favourites when they host Noble Park this Saturday.

The Bulls got off to a slow start against South Croydon on their way to an 8.12(60) to 5.8(38) defeat at Pat Wright Oval.

The Bulls conceded the only three goals of the opening quarter, but gave a much better account

of themselves in the second term.

Jye Byford got things rolling with a clever snap in traffic, before Tom Taborsky strolled into an open goal after some rare end-to-end footy from the Bulls.

The Bulls took the ball the length of the field in just 15 seconds of play; the best team moment of the match.

Liam O’Rourke then made it three straight for the Bulls, kicking truly after some elite forward pressure caused the Bulldogs to fumble and cough up a costly turnover.

South Croydon steadied; taking a seven-point lead to half time.

The Bulldogs won it, and Noble Park lost it, in the third.

Consecutive goals to James Wilsen, Chris Jones and Ned Ford extended the margin to 27 points, before a late third-quarter goal to Kevin Kean gave the Bulls a sniff in the final term.

O’Rourke then continued the Bulls’ momentum, landing the first blow of the final quarter to cut the margin to 16 points.

Withtheweatherclosingin,AnthonyScottthen sealed the deal for the Bulldogs, who now skip 10 points clear of the winless Bulls in eighth spot.

Lachie McDonnell and Jacob Noble were once again standouts for the beaten Bulls’ brigade, while Callum Morgan, Dean Jones and Jordan Marson did all they could for their side.

The Bulls face that horror match-up with Rowville at Rowville this week, before a round-11 clash with ninth-placed South Belgrave that will no doubt determine their fate this season.

Lose to the struggling Saints and the Bulls will almost be guaranteed demotion to Eastern Division 1.

• EASTERN PREMIER

RESULTS R9: Noble Park 5.8(38) def by South Croydon 8.12(60), Balwyn 7.12(54) def by Rowville 14.14(98), Berwick 9.7(61) def by Vermont 9.9(63), East Ringwood 16.15(111) def Doncaster East 9.10(64), Blackburn 19.6(120) def South Belgrave 5.4(34).

LADDER: East Ringwood 36, Rowville 28, Doncaster East 24, Balwyn 22, Blackburn 20/ Vermont 20, Berwick 16, South Croydon 10, South Belgrave 4, Noble Park 0.

FIXTURE R10 (Saturday 20 June): Blackburn (5) v Balwyn (4), South Belgrave (9) v Berwick (7), Vermont (6) v Doncaster East (3), Rowville (2) v Noble Park (10), East Ringwood (1) v South Croydon (8).

Thomas terrific as rollicking Redbacks shock Cranbourne

By Blair Burns

Hampton Park star Trent Thomas kicked seven goals on Saturday as the Redbacks crawled all over rival Cranbourne to win by 40 points at the final siren and cause a big upset, 14.5 (89) to 6.13 (49).

Good kicking is good football and with both teams finishing the Southern Division 1 contest with 19 scoring shots, the margin should’ve been closer than it was.

Hampton Park, who had largely been quite inaccurate in front of the big sticks, wasted no opportunities and kicked brilliantly at Robert Booth Reserve as the home side bounced out of the league bye with great energy.

It was a dominant fourth quarter which saw the Redbacks run away with just their second win of the 2026 season, snapping a five-game losing streak.

It was a disappointing loss for Cranbourne and a contrasting feeling to a couple of weeks ago when they knocked off Dingley heading into the bye.

Missed early chances told the tale for the Eagles, who managed just 1.9 in a first half which should’ve had them leading on the scoreboard. But ultimately, it was Hampton Park who led at every break as Luke Bull coached his side to victory.

Thomas is a superstar and has only gone goalless on one occasion across the first eight rounds to have 21 goals in nine games, including five times in the best.

He had 36 disposals and three goals in the loss against Murrumbeena last round and clearly has plenty of X-Factor.

The absence of Marc Holt was felt for Cranbourne, as the side relied on scoreboard impact from Ryan Jones (three goals) and Trent Marot-

ta (two goals). In

a seven-goal

from Will

The

was a genuine arm-wrestle

against the Bulldogs, with both teams managing just one goal each, but the floodgates opened in the second term.

No Callum Porter or Hayden Dwyer … no worries, as the Magpies banked a seventh season win to remain in second spot on the ladder.

Dingley bounced back with a percentageboosting win over Port Melbourne with an eight-goal-to-one third term, the highlight for the Dingoes as they won, 21.15 (141) to 7.8 (50).

Lachlan Benton was on fire with seven majors, while Jack Ferraro played his first game of the year with the Dingoes after performing well for Sandringham in the VFL this season with 20 goals from his 10 games.

Cheltenham also got back on the winners’ list as the reigning premier accounted for a fighting Murrumbeena side at Jack Barker Oval, 14.8 (92) to 10.9 (69).

The Lions actually held a half-time lead of 16 points before the Rosellas found another gear in the third term before finishing strong - Tom Davis kicked five in the win.

Bentleigh spearhead Castan Racunica continued his fine form with another five-goal performance as his side won the battle of the Demons, defeating Springvale Districts 19.16 (130) to 9.10 (64).

The margin was only 10 points in favour of Bentleigh at quarter time, but the visitors extended their lead in the second term to keep Springy goalless and go on to win by 66 points.

DIVISION 2 RESULTS

Straight kicking for not so wild West

By Justin Schwarze

Dandenong West’s pinpoint accuracy led it to securing win number nine for the year as the Westerners downed Ashwood in round 10 of Southern Division 4.

At Essex Heights Reserve, both teams registered 13 scoring shots in the first half but it was the visitors that capitalised with 10.3 to 6.7, taking a 20-point buffer into the main break.

And Dandenong West pulled away in the third, booting five goals to two to extend the margin out to 39 points at the final change.

The Westerners rode the momentum to secure the 17.7 (109) to 11.14 (80) road victory.

Coren Giliam’s hot form continued as the superstar forward booted his fourth-straight haul of five-plus, finishing with six on the afternoon.

Remmi Faulkner-Wood also provided plenty up forward for the visitors, slotting five majors.

Lyndale came from the clouds and caused a fourth-quarter boilover against Moorabbin, erasing a 25-point three-quarter time deficit.

The Pumas managed the only four goals of the fourth - to go along with five behinds - to steamroll the Kangaroos in the final term.

The final three scores - all Lyndale behindswere the difference, going from down one to win 13.13 (91) to 13.11 (89).

Mitchell Gibson was the star for the Pumas with four goals.

St John’s Old Collegians got back on the winner’s list after two consecutive draws with a comfortable 13.15 (93) to 6.9 (45) triumph over Doveton Eagles.

The Eagles led by a straight kick on their home deck at quarter time, but five unanswered majors in the second from the JOCs saw them take the lead and never look back.

Josh Mourant was outstanding as his sevengoal effort led the way for the victorious visitors.

A professional final quarter from Clayton saw the Clays blitz Narre South and pick up the four

premiership points.

The Saints worked hard on their home turf to get back into the contest and trail by just five at the final change, but the visitors responded with five goals to two in the last to overrun them 13.11 (89) to 9.12 (66).

Caleb Dornan booted four goals for Clayton, while Stephen Richards-Gill put through three for Narre South.

• SOUTHERN4

RESULTSR10: Ashwood 11.14 (80) def by Dan-

No wasting time as Wicks

By Justin Schwarze

On the back of the most promising start to a season since the club moved to the Eastern Premier Division, Berwick has already reappointed senior coach Andrew Williams for the 2027 season.

Williams’ second season at the helm has produced plenty of optimism at Edwin Flack Oval as the Wickers are well in the finals hunt, sitting seventh with a record of 4-5.

The former AFL 114-gamer with West Coast and Collingwood has led Berwick to the thirdrated defence to date this season.

It’s a philosophy that has been his strong suit after the Wickers had statistically the best defence outside of the top four last season, his first as senior coach, despite finishing second-bottom.

Williams was thrilled to be backed by the club to return in his position next year.

“It’s an honour to coach at this level and at a

Hot Whittle ignites win for Rangers

By Justin Schwarze

A Marena Whittle triple-double sparked the Dandenong Rangers Women to one of their best wins of the season in round 10 of the NBL1 South.

The Rangers faced off against Diamond Valley at home, and the first half was tightly contested with neither team getting the ascendancy.

Dandenong led by one at quarter time before the Eagles hit back and took a threepoint buffer into the half.

But the third was dominated by the hosts, who locked up on the defensive end and capitalised on the other, outscoring the visitors 23-11 in the quarter.

The fourth was a shootout, but Dandenong’s offence was humming and the Rangers put up 33 points in the term to close out the 99-83 victory.

Whittle led the charge and orchestrated the triumph with 23 points, 14 rebounds and 12 assists on 8/16 shooting in a virtuoso performance.

Imogen Rock provided 24 points and five boards on efficient 9/13 shooting, while Manuela Puoch flirted with a tripledouble of her own with 12 points, eight rebounds and seven assists.

Dandenong moved up to 12th on the table with a record of 6-10.

Two poor quarters condemned the Rangers Men to a disappointing 100-88 loss at the hands of Diamond Valley at home.

Dandenong came out of the gates hot, scoring 16 points in the paint while shooting 60 percent from two-point range to take the first term 29-25.

But the Eagles got the game on their terms, going 4/7 from three while shooting over 50 percent from the floor to dominate the second term and outscore the Rangers 34-18.

And the trend continued in the third, with the visitors also winning the quarter by five to open up a 17-point advantage at three-quarter time.

Diamond Valley used the big lead to roll into the resounding result.

Joe Palmer struggled with his shot but posted a double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds with three steals.

denong West 17.7 (109), Moorabbin 13.11 (89) def by Lyndale 13.13 (91), Doveton Eagles 6.9 (45) def by St John’s Old Collegians 13.15 (93), Narre South 9.12 (66) def by Clayton 13.11 (89).

LADDER: Dandenong West, St John’s Old Collegians 36, Ashwood, Clayton 24, Narre South 18, Lyndale 14, Doveton Eagles, Moorabbin 4. FIXTURE R11: Dandenong West (1) v Doveton Eagles (7), Clayton (4) v St John’s Old Collegians (2), Ashwood (3) v Lyndale (6), Moorabbin (8) v Narre South (5).

re-sign Williams

footy club like Berwick,” he said.

“It’s a young group and we’re all learning and growing together and we’re trying to be the best we can be each week, we’ll see where it takes us.

“I’ve got a really committed group of coaches and the players all buy into the program we put in front of them.

“The club and the committee have been super in just offering up any help to help us be the best we can.

“It was a no-brainer for me to stay on the track we’re on and see where it takes us.”

And the Wickers have shown immense faith in the foundations being built as they have already locked away his signature midway through 2026.

The ascension of some young stars paired with an impressive recruiting class has seen Berwick surge and be extremely competitive this season.

The Wickers have taken it up to the best with only one comprehensive loss this season, a 74-point loss to Rowville in round seven, meaning they have the league’s fourth-best percentage.

Berwick will charge into the second half of its season this week with a visit to South Belgrave.

Sam Davidson led the charge for Dandenong with 31 points on 9/14 shooting, while Harry Froling added 18 points and five boards.

The loss sees the Rangers sink to eighth with a record of 9-7.

In round 11, both outfits are back at home against Frankston on Saturday night.