EHD Star Journal - 28th July 2026

Green day for all

Caitlyn from Greater Dandenong Council’s parks team was digging in at Somerfield Reserve, Keysborough on Saturday 25 July.

She joined residents in planting hundreds of saplings as part of the 30th National Tree Day.

A similar event was held at Tirhatuan Reserve the following day.

More pictures, turn to page 13

(Rob Carew: 567445)

Greater Dandenong councillors have voted down a cost-saving motion to limit the number of councillors attending future local government conferences in Canberra.

Meanwhile, at the same 20 July meeting, the absent mayor Sophie Tan came under fire for allegedly setting herself a limit of two functions a day.

The mayor, who is paid a base allowance of $142,661 plus use of a vehicle, denied the claim to Star Journal.

“I maintain a very busy diary of community events and I enjoy getting to as many as I can.”

Last week, the Labor member also took several days’ leave to attend the recent Australia Labor Party 50th Anniversary and National Conference in South Adelaide from 23-25 July.

Cr Tan took to social media to post about her proud moments and boasted of Labor’s “priorities,” saying it was her “privilege” to attend the conference.

“I’m also proud that my amendment on Statement Details was passed,” she posted.

Meanwhile, Cr Rhonda Garad failed in a motion for a limit of three councillors to attend the

annual National General Assembly (NGA) conference held by the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) in June.

At a rough estimate of $25,000, eight Greater Dandenong councillors and officers attended the most recent NGA conference.

Other South East councils Casey and Cardinia limited their delegations to three representatives.

“I’ve never heard a community member say they think councillors should have unlimited money for trips to Canberra,” Cr Garad says.

“I feel cheated as a community, watching their

(councillors’) complete indifference to community sentiment. People that contacted me feel the same.”

In opposition, Cr Sean O’Reilly and deputy mayor Phillip Danh were quick to criticise Cr Garad as she has benefitted from the experience multiple times.

“The mover talked about encouraging Council to change our ways,” Cr Danh said.

“I would definitely encourage her to start looking in the mirror first.”

More on the stories, turn to page 3

Not Just Aged Care. A Place To Belong.

Choosing aged care is one of life’s most important decisions. It’s about finding more than quality care, it’s about finding a place where you or your loved one feels safe, valued, and truly at home.

At Roshana Noble Park Aged Care, we’ve created a warm and welcoming community where compassionate care, meaningful connections, and comfortable living come together. Here, every resident is known as an individual, supported with dignity, and encouraged to continue living life in a way that is meaningful to them.

For nearly 30 years, Roshana Care Group has been caring for Australians with a commitment to compassion, respect, and excellence. Today, we’re proud to bring that same trusted care to the Noble Park community.

Book your complimentary tour today Come and experience the warmth of our community and discover why so many families trust Roshana with the care of those they love.

• 24/7 Registered Nurse Availability

• Personalised Care & Clinical Support

• Permanent & Respite Care

• Modern Private & Companion Rooms

• Safe & Secure Living Environment

• Beautiful Gardens & Comfortable Shared Spaces

• Engaging Lifestyle Programs

• Freshly Prepared Meals Every Day

Roshana Noble Park Aged Care (03) 7504 7600 521 Princes Highway, Noble Park VIC 3174 admin.noblepark@roshana.com.au

No caps on costs

By Sahar Foladi

Greater Dandenong councillors voted down a cost-saving motion to limit the number of councillors attending future local government conferences in Canberra.

At a rough estimate of $25,000, eight councillors and officers attended the most recent National General Assembly (NGA) conference held by the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) in June.

Other South East councils Casey and Cardinia limited their delegations to three representatives.

Cr Rhonda Garad, who initiated the motion on 20 July, argued the conference is “national advocacy,” with no mention of any training provided to councillors during the three-day event.

In opposition, Cr Sean O’Reilly and deputy mayor Phillip Danh were quick to criticise Cr Garad as she has benefitted from the experience multiple times.

Crs Garad and O’Reilly were among the council’s attendees at this year’s conference.

Deputy mayor Danh didn’t attend the conference but accused Cr Garad of a “masquerade” that covered her “hypocrisy”

He stepped down as the chair of the meeting to speak on the item, claiming councillors shouldn’t be boxed in to “play these performative games” and “strong armed to supporting motions that have been brought forward in bad faith”

“The mover talked about encouraging Council to change our ways. I would definitely encourage her to start looking in the mirror first.”

The motion called for a limit of three councillors to attend the annual three-day event, including the mayor or deputy mayor and a rotation of different councillors each year.

It also called for ALGA to stream the conference online so councillors can watch and support motions.

“I’ve never heard a community member say they think councillors should have unlimited money for trips to Canberra,” Cr Garad says.

“I feel cheated as a community, watching their (councillors’) complete indifference to community sentiment. People that contacted me feel the same.

“The intent of ALGA is to develop the national advocacy network. Motions that we put up become part of the national agenda.

“Some councillors can go and can pick up extra skills or sharpen skills but that’s not why they are sent. It’s purely to develop the national agenda, we should be part of that.

“I’m not saying the conference is bad. I went because I wanted to ensure the council’s housing motion went up and if there was debate on the floor I wanted to defend it.”

Councils receive only one vote on motions before them.

During the conference, Cr O’Reilly voted on motions on behalf of mayor Sophie Tan while she advocated to Federal Ministers in Canberra.

Cr O’Reilly says there’s nothing more or less Cr Garad could’ve done to support the motions at the conference.

He argues the conference - the largest and only local government national gathering - provides critical “professional training” to councillors making decisions for the municipality.

Just before the 20 July motion was heard, Cr O’Reilly strongly opposed a rescission motion for a $46,000 feasibility report into retaining the squash courts in the old Dandenong Oasis building, citing cost as one of the major reasons.

But Cr O’Reilly says his opposition was based on “spending money where it’s beneficial”

“Everyone knows (the feasibility report) will

lead to zero (outcome) or several hundred thousand dollars of expenditure,” he says.

“If councillors are making decisions across $250 million a year and want to do professional development you should say, yes please, at every opportunity.

“Sometimes we make bad decisions and sometimes they are highly costly to the community. We’re talking about millions of dollars.

“The key misunderstanding is that it’s not just benefiting councillors but also individual councillors as far as their professionalism.”

He says the professional development can occur after formal conferences, by talking with other councillors on what they do and comparing that.

“There’s a formal and informal agenda, learning opportunities, networking and speaking with other councillors on what they do.

“A lot of topics are future thinking.

“The conference is about thinking outside the box and future developments.”

Cr Garad initiated a similar motion back in 2024, where the item was also lost.

Mayor under fire for alleged ‘events cap’

By Sahar Foladi

Greater Dandenong mayor Sophie Tan has denied claims that she has limited her workload to attending up to two functions a day.

Cr Tan, who is paid a base allowance of $142,661 plus use of a vehicle, came under fire while absent from a 20 July council meeting.

During question time, Cr Rhonda Garad asked for confirmation on the alleged two-events-a-day cap.

“Has any other mayor capped the number of public events they’ll attend?”

Council CEO Jacqui Weatherill said it was a question best answered by Cr Tan.

“We’ll take that on notice - she’s not here this evening.”

After the meeting, Cr Tan stated to Star Journal that “there is no cap on events I am willing to attend”

“I maintain a very busy diary of community events and I enjoy getting to as many as I can.”

In the same week, the mayor, as a Labor member, took leave to attend the recent Australia Labor Party 50th Anniversary and National Conference in South Adelaide from 23-25 July.

Ms Weatherill told Star Journal the mayor was on leave for a few days this week.

“Any urgent Council business will be handled by the Deputy Mayor in her absence.”

Cr Tan took to social media to post about her proud moments and boasted of Labor’s “priorities,” saying it was her “privilege” to attend the conference.

“I’m also proud that my amendment on Statement Details was passed,” her caption read. Kingston ALP councillor Hadi Saab also posted a photo on his Instagram story, of the Asylum Seeker Refugee Centre’s (ASRC) presentation at the conference.

Cr Garad says the mayor should open up her

diary as proof that there’s no cap on events.

“I could confirm that this year councillors had been asked to attend a lot more events (on behalf of the mayor) than in previous years.

“It does raise questions about what is our process for making sure the people who put their hands up for this highly paid job (of mayor) have the capacity to deliver.

“The community could be rightly outraged if people are putting their hands up for these jobs knowing they either can’t deliver and fulfil it or putting limits in how much they are prepared to do.”

Deputy mayor Phillip Danh has repeatedly made it clear that he works full-time and would make his “best efforts” to prioritise events within his ward and any other invites.

“I’d also be cautious of speculating as well because I noted that Cr Garad didn’t disclose her source on that.

“I can’t speak for the mayor about what her arrangements are but what I do know is that the job we have is a very special privilege.

“I do the best I can to attend the events I’m

invited to and I have my own schedule of events, whether it’s community groups in my ward or community groups that would like to invite me specifically to things.”

However, Cr Sean O’Reilly finds it reasonable and that councillors should instead “stick to the core things.”

“That’s how the mayor manages their work. Why are we raising it in public?

“I know from being mayor myself, you can have events spread out over 12 hours a day on seven days and can be irregular.

“So, if the mayor has a convention to get her own things done, and it works for her, then that’s fine.

“(The mayor’s schedule) is not for public consumption.”

Questions were also raised on a lock installed at the mayor’s office, something not previously done.

However, Cr O’Reilly laughs it off saying it’s a standard process against any security concerns.

He cited an incident few years ago when a councillor was going through documents on the mayor’s desk.

In case the mayor’s office is not available, councillors can always book other spaces available.

Satisfaction high

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Satisfaction appears to be riding high in Greater Dandenong Council, but housing stress was worrying a rising number of residents, according to the latest community satisfaction survey.

Greater Dandenong has ranked highest out of a selection of 18 Victorian councils and the metro Melbourne region average, with an overall score of 7.4 out of 10.

“This outcome reflects the dedication, professionalism and commitment of our staff across every department and should be a source of pride for our community,” mayor Sophie Tan said.

According to the Metropolis Research annual report, the score was 0.4 higher than the metro average.

But the score was slightly lower than the “unusually high” South East region of councils’ average (7.5).

Council satisfaction was highest in Dandenong North, Keysborough, females, multilingual households, rental households, people with disability and people with no housing stress.

Less approving were Noble Park, Noble Park North, seniors, people who contacted the council in the past 12 months and people with heavy housing stress.

According to the survey, an extraordinary 73 per cent reportedly experienced housing stress (significantly up from 59 per cent in 2025).

Those reporting “heavy” levels of housing stress were up from 12 per cent in 2025 to 22 per cent in 2026.

Financial pressure was particularly pointed for mortgage holders as well as residents in Noble Park, Noble Park North, Springvale and Springvale South.

The council scored higher than the metro average in most categories.

These include:

- customer service (8.5 – nine points higher than the average)

- services and facilities (8.1 – two points higher)

- planning and development (7.9 –five points higher

- governance and leadership (7.5 –two points higher).

The positives also included planning and building permit processes, arts and cultural events, the council’s website and economic-development promotional events.

Garbage, recycling, FOGO and hard rubbish collection, as well as libraries also ranked highly.

But key concerns included public toilets, road repairs, and parking spaces.

Safety and crime was also a topthree concern for 17 per cent of respondents (though down from 23 per cent in 2025).

Daytime perception of safety in public spaces was improved, but nearly one in five still felt unsafe at night.

Perceived public-place safety was lower than the Melbourne and South East councils’ averages.

Dandenong and Dandenong North were identified hotspots.

The survey was conducted doorto-door, questioning 400 residents in Greater Dandenong in April and May 2026.

More than 1600 households did not answer or refused to take the survey.

Greater Dandenong (7.4) ranked above the following 18 Victorian councils for overall satisfaction: Monash, Wyndham, Frankston, Knox, Kingston, Brimbank, Banyule, Port Phillip, Maribyrnong, Bayside, Darebin, Ballarat, Nillumbik, Melton, Cardinia, Merri-bek, Mornington Peninsula and Campapse.

‘Encouraging’ start for hub

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A jobseeker hub has opened in Dandenong to help bridge the gap between a jobs-rich region and relatively high unemployment.

In March 2026, Greater Dandenong’s unemployment rate was 7.5 per cent – well ahead of the national rate of 4.3 per cent.

This is despite the region boasting more than 126,000 jobs, including in manufacturing, logistics, health care and retail.

The Dandenong Pathway to Employment Hub is created to address what Bruce MP Julian Hill last year described as a “failure in the labour market to actually match people who want to work with the jobs that are available”.

Since opening on Thursday 2 July, the hub’s early response has been “encouraging”, says Greater Dandenong Council’s city futures acting executive director Brett Jackson.

“(It) shows there is a real need for practical, local support to help people take the next step toward employment.

“Greater Dandenong has many jobs and opportunities, but some people can find employment, training and support systems difficult to navigate or may be unsure where to start.”

The hub is a federally-funded pilot initiative, following a Labor pledge for $1 million over three years. It is also supported by the

state government and run by the council. According to the council’s website, the hub is not designed to be a job agency, recruitment

Chisholm students skill-up with $1.9m tech boost

Chisholm Institute’s Dandenong campus has unveiled $1.95 million of training technology to equip students for advanced manufacturing careers.

Up to 800 students a year will be using the computer numerically controlled (CNC) and coordinate measuring machine (CMM) equipment, including in Free TAFE advanced manufacturing courses.

The specialist skills can be applied in the advanced manufacturing and fabrication industries.

Two students Aimee Dixon and Shae Ulmer-Joyce gave talks to Skills and Training federal minister Andrew Giles and Labor MPs Julian Hill and Lee Tarlamis during a launch of the technology on 14 July.

Dixon is a second-year engineering apprentice, currently building her skills in advanced manufacturing. She recently enrolled in a Free TAFE Certificate IV in Engineering CNC Programming.

Meanwhile, Ulmer-Joyce is enrolled in a Free TAFE Certificate IV in Engineering CNC Program-

ming student, as she works as a second-year mechanical apprentice at TRJ Engineering Group.

The equipment was funded by the Federal Government’s $50 million TAFE Technology Fund.

Mr Giles said the technology helps students to take advantage of “exciting opportunities” in advanced manufacturing across Victoria.

“Our investment means students have the

service, training provider or a case management service.

“We’re keen to try out new ways of working or approaches that might unlock opportunities for both employers and job seekers,” Jackson says.

‘We’re not locked into a specific service provider model, so we have the flexibility to tap into new ideas and local opportunities as they arise.

“As a pilot initiative, the Hub is focused on helping people better understand their employment options, connect with appropriate services and supports, and take positive steps toward work.”

For jobseekers, the Hub offers a “practical first step” with free, one-to-one discussions to understand a person’s skills, goals and current barriers.

It offers referral to relevant services, and builds up confidence to engage with the “right pathway toward employment”

The hub opens Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at the council’s offices at 4/225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong.

It is staffed by a full-time Employment Hub Lead and two part-time Pathways Officers.

Four teens charged after alleged chase

Four teens have been charged and bailed after allegedly fleeing in a stolen car from police across the South East.

Police say that officers spotted the Mazda 2 near Stud Road in Dandenong about 12.10pm on Wednesday 22 July.

The car allegedly fled from police and was monitoredbytheAirWingasitwasdrivenerratically and at high speeds across several suburbs.

A girl exited the vehicle in Keysborough and was arrested shortly before 3pm.

Three boys dumped the car in Waterways and got into an ordered ride-share vehicle, police stated.

Police pulled over the ride-share vehicle and arrested the trio on Hutton Road in Keysborough about 3pm.

The quartet were interviewed in relation to the alleged theft of the vehicle from a Glen Iris gym about 8.30pm on 21 July and the driving incident.

A 17-year-old Greater Dandenong boy was charged with car theft and possessing cannabis.

A 16-year-old boy from the Frankston area was charged with car theft and possessing a prohibited weapon.

A 15-year-old Glen Eira girl and a 17-yearold Greater Dandenong boy were both charged with car theft.

All four have been bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

opportunity to obtain first-hand knowledge in the latest technology, and build invaluable skills within the industry, improving the career pathways that will open up to them.”

Mr Hill, the federal Bruce MP, said TAFE provides critical skills to set up young Australians for their career as well as retraining older workers for their next one.

“By 2050, 80 per cent of Aussie jobs will require a tertiary education.”

Victorian Skills and TAFE Minister Colin Brooks said the training would “improve the speed and accuracy of students’ knowledge and help develop expertise in the advanced manufacturing sector”

““The Allan Labor Government is focused on backing TAFEs and industry to set up our state for the future – boosting advanced manufacturing, strengthening local production, driving greater efficiency and sustainability, and reducing waste.”

The TAFE Technology Fund has allocated $8.61 million to projects in Victoria. The Chisholm Dandenong project is the sixth project to be completed in the state.

Two males have been charged after a Lexus vehicle with allegedly stolen plates fled from police in Dandenong early on Friday 24 July.

Police say officers tried to intercept the black vehicle about 1.20am, when it sped off towards Melbourne’s east.

Air Wing was called in and followed the Lexus to Churcher Court and Parkinson Street in Mount Waverley where it was abandoned, police say.

The Dog Squad and the Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) swarmed the area to assist uniform officers.

A teenage boy was located by a police dog nearby and arrested, with a second man arrested shortly after.

A 16-year-old boy from the Bass Coast area was charged with 35 offences including robbery, car theft, criminal damage by fire.

He was remanded to appear at a children’s court.

A32-year-oldNobleParkmanwascharged with offences including car theft, handling stolen goods, driving in a dangerous manner. He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court that day.

Any information, dashcam or CCTV footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

$1b Market revamp probed

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

Greater Dandenong councillors have sought more details as they knocked back the council’s plan for a $1 billion revitalisation of the Dandenong Market Precinct.

The 20-year vision, unveiled in March, aims for about 1000 new dwellings, including apartment towers on “underutilised” at-grade car parks and off Stuart, King and Sleeth streets.

There is also a strategy for a pedestrianised ‘eat street’ connecting the market and Palm Plaza, street activation for community safety, a landscaped urban plaza, and potential development above the 159-year-old market.

A motion for the plan was moved by councillor Sean O’Reilly at a meeting on 20 July, but lapsed without even a vote.

This was due to failing to attract a councillor to second the motion.

Cr Rhonda Garad said the plan fails to address key questions – such as who pays for it.

“Given that we don’t have $1 billion, the State Government doesn’t have $1 billion, it’s very likely to be developers (paying for it).

“It’s really unclear what the developers get out of this (and) if this is not a transfer of public ownership to private.”

She said she’d seek clarity on what the community gets, as a “quid pro quo” for developer interest.

Cr Lana Formoso said she’d like more information on the precinct’s housing requirements.

During community consultation in MarchApril, the draft plan attracted a “record level” of participation and “strong community support” , a council report stated.

Most support came for the walkable streets and laneways concept, the new food and dining areas and the aim to improve activation, safety, business vibrancy and community enjoyment.

The respondents’ highest priorities included the upgrade of Palm Plaza, improving pedestrian safety at the intersection of Clow and Lonsdale streets. and events to encourage night-time use.

Better parking and public transport, as well as more trees and green spaces were also raised.

Some of the commenters were concerned with car parking provision and traffic congestion.

Last month, the council committed $120,000 to investigate a safer redesign of the Clow and Cleeland streets’ intersection and $250,000 for a

concept design of Palm Plaza.

In 2010, the council completed a $26 million redevelopment of the market.

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

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

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

Local teachers walk out

By Sahar Foladi and Jensy Callimootoo

Dandenong High School staff are among thousands of Victorian teachers embroiled in a series of strikes and advocacy for better work conditions, pay and education system.

At a time when Victorian teachers are the lowest-paid educators in Australia, they say many are opting to change schools or careers.

However, some educators choose to remain in some of the most vulnerable communities, where they are needed the most.

Educators Alex Leemann and Inaz Janif have taught at Dandenong High School for 11 years and 20 years respectively.

Ms Leemann is also the Australian Education Union (AEU) Victorian Branch’s councillor representative of the school.

She set out as a temporary casual relief teacher but fell in love with the school and never left.

“There’s a lot of staff who love working at DHS. In terms of conditions, staff are working in excess of 12 unpaid hours a week.

“Somehow despite all this, we call ourselves the education state. We’re fighting for ourselves but we’re doing it because we are passionate about our profession

“Ultimately, our work conditions are our students’ learning conditions. The stronger the agreement in conditions and pay, the stronger the outcome will be for students.

“It’s a lot easier for us to show up, turn out our whole hearts when we feel supported by the employer - the department.”

Along with Ms Janif and other staff and school members, they have attended the 24-hour statewide strike on Thursday 23 July after a majority of education union members voted to reject the state’s recent offer.

“I can understand there are members out there who believe it can be pushed further and that’s what we will do at the strike, making a truly

historic deal,” Ms Leemann says.

In her 20 years as an educator, Ms Janif came across better offers and opportunities to switch schools, but she wanted to serve a bigger purpose where she is needed the most, not just to teach.

For the majority like her, she’s taking action over work conditions and her concerns for the future of the education system and the students.

“I have witnessed my own children’s primary school teachers leave this year, they either left or changed schools in search of better conditions.

“It says a lot when teachers who are dedicated to young people leave their young classes mid-

Readers side with teachers’ stop-work

DO YOU SUPPORT THE TEACHERS’STRIKE?

An overwhelming majority of respondents in a Star News readers’ poll backed a 24-hour strike by public-school teachers and educational support staff on Thursday 23 July.

■YES - 79 per cent

■NO - 21 per cent

Add your voice, and visit facebook.com/DandenongJournal for this week’s poll.

year.

“That’s extremely disruptive to children’s learning when they are only in Grade 1.

“If we don’t fight for both sustainable working conditions and good pay for all education staff, we are going to see this continuous loss and cycle of teachers coming into teaching and then leaving.

“The cost is borne by our children and ultimately therefore society.”

She says teachers don’t have enough time to prepare materials, especially when they are expected to tailor their teaching to the special and

diverse students in the classroom.

New graduate teachers in their career struggle more as they balance the time between teaching and preparation.

“We need to stay the course because we’re seeing our children’s education deteriorate.

“We’re the lowest paid teachers and lowest funded schools in the whole of Australia.”

The ongoing strikes and advocacy have driven conversations in the wider community, among students, and families.

Ms Leemann says a lot of the students are curious and ask questions about why they have a day off and what the teachers hope to achieve.

“That’s a very lovely thing that our students really support the work that we’re doing. It’s not about having a day off for them.”

The Greater Dandenong municipality is one of the lowest-socio economic council areas in Melbourne, with communities from the most vulnerable backgrounds.

The recent offer from the State Government outlined a 28.3 per cent pay increase for teachers, principals and ESS over a four year period.

Many are instead calling for a three year period.

An increase of 12.75 per cent would begin in October of this year.

While the July offer addresses workload, AEU members argue that it is not enough to adequately alleviate the workload employees currently face.

The current offer cuts meeting hours from 80 hours to 40 hours a year. But real reductions in face-to-face teaching hours and more preparation time to reduce staff burnout is also being sought.

In the leadup, Education Minister Ben Carroll urged the union to back down on its promise to go ahead with the strike, arguing it would disrupt the learning of students and have adverse consequences to working parents.

Your views on the AEU strike

Star Journal had more than 200 comments in response to its Facebook poll on last week’s 24-hour strike by Australian Education Union members, comprising government-school teachers and education support workers from across the state.

Here are some of your viewpoints:

Kay Griffiths

No, why not do it when the holidays are on instead of inconveniencing parents who have to work.

Toby Wilkins (to Kay Griffiths):

Oop. Someone didn’t pay attention in Year 9 civics and citizenship when the concept of disruption for social gain was explained.

Andrea Villarroel (to Kay Griffiths)

Not only that it takes away from the kids’ education.

Tennille Dias (to Andrea Villarroel)

We are doing it for your kids! We don’t get paid when we strike.

Diane McCarthy

is to have an environment and conditions that might keep decent staffing levels up to help you and your kids get an education/babysitting for the day while you go earn a decent buck. Support the school staff. It benefits us all.

Bib Merklett: I also support funding public schools before private schools.

Mark Nicholas (to Bib Merklett):

Separate pools of money that don’t interact. Public is state funded, private is federally subsidised. This means if you get rid of public funding, private schools’ fees would go up 100- 200%, making it unaffordable for the majority who use these schools. Those students will then be state schools. More students, same pool of money to stretch further.

Nikki Kewin-Talbot:

Full funding for schools is one of the main issues. Govt needs to step up. If schools are fully funded, classes get the equipment they need to assist in teaching kids the things they need to learn. Not enough money given to schools to provide kids the education every child should have.

Leah Leprech:

We would all like a pay rise and I am not saying they don’t deserve it but realistically we cannot afford it. I am a pensioner and live off $600 a week. I also heard from one of the protesters saying it’s for the kids. If it is for the kids, instead of a pay rise, get more equipment, more computers for the kids.

Melanie Malakunas (to Diane McCarthy):

It’s not just equipment; it’s about the conditions in the classroom. Large class sizes, students with increasing needs and not enough support staff and violent and rude students.

Amy Jean VB (to Diane McCarthy):

More teachers than you would be aware of spend their money on resources for their students due to lack of funding in many schools. So yes, they should get more pay and the school needs more funding to make up for it.

Diane McCarthy (to Amy Jean VB):

I didn’t say they shouldn’t get a rise but where is the money coming from? I think we need more money in a lot of things. I think health is the most important because without health you have nothing.

Corinne Rindindin:

Well done, teachers and ES staff on having the resilience and wisdom to hold strong with this.Itisnecessary,nomatterhowinconvenient it is for the poor petals who had to arrange care for their kids today. If it disrupted you so much, maybe then you might consider how essential it

Teachers were considered essential workers in 2020 and 2021, how about we show them how essential they are now with improved pay AND conditions!

Darryl Blackman No, they don’t deserve a pay rise. How much is enough? Like do us tradies get that sort of pay rise - I would love a 35 percent rise and a nice warm classroom.

Mark Anderson

I don’t think anyone objects to fair pay and justified wage increases. The question is: how will they be funded? If there are no new revenue sources, doesn’t that mean the money has to come from spending cuts elsewhere, higher taxes, increased borrowing, or a combination of these? The public deserves a clear explanation of how these decisions will affect them before more spending is announced.

Grant King 23 years in and the work demands and abuse we cop from students and parents at times is next level and getting worse.

Terry Strong You go and work with some of these little darlings, and then tell me you don’t support them!

Players’ final rally squashed

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A legion of committed players were left defeated and deflated after councillors narrowly voted to bulldoze Dandenong’s last squash courts.

On 20 July, Greater Dandenong councillors were split 4-4 on undertaking a $32,000-$46,000 feasibility study into keeping the Dandenong Oasis courts.

Deputy mayor Phillip Danh used his casting vote to spell ‘game over’ for the sport in Greater Dandenong.

It was seemingly the final rally for squash, after councillors rejected embarking on a feasibility study last month.

Terry Willkinson, one of a regular band of players at Dandenong, had vainly led a public campaign to save the venue.

“It’s a total shame,” he said of the vote.

“The group feels deflated. The short-sightedness of it – squash is becoming an Olympic sport and there will be nowhere to play it.”

Wilkinson says the benefits of playing are “immeasurable” to the Oasis regulars, some aged in their 70s.

Their meet-ups are a vital communion for physical, social and mental wellbeing.

“People our age don’t have much opportunity to play sport. This sport ticks all the boxes.

“You have played a game and you feel a million dollars.

“I see fathers teaching their kids how to play – it’s a perfect family sport.”

Their playing days are uncertain, with longer commutes and limited access to courts at Monash University and Knox, he says.

“No one wants to drive half-an-hour-plus to go somewhere to play during the week.”

The Dandenong courts are set to be demolished after the new Oasis Aquatics & Wellbeing centre opens next year.

The new $122 million facility, which blew out in cost from $60 million, is well under construction.

As a result, the council owes $28 million in interest repayments in the next five years.

Wilkinson says “it doesn’t add up” that there was no room for three squash courts in the new facility.

Squash is “paying the price” for the council’s financial “mismanagement” , he says.

“All this money for this new centre and they’re providing less opportunities for the community.

“In the same breath, they went to (the Australian Local Government Association conference in) Canberra for nearly $30,000.

“The money seems to go to the people who run the show, and then the community misses out.”

According to the council, squash has waned in popularity at state and local levels while other fitness and aquatic activities were growing.

Community strengthening executive director Peta Gillies said the council had to prioritise space at the new Oasis to meet community demand and the broadest community benefit.

In favour of a feasibility report, Cr Rhonda Garad said the courts were a hub for middle-aged men – who are the highest risk category for depression, heart disease, inactivity and obesity.

Removing the courts was at odds with the council’s Make Your Move policy to lift Greater Dandenong’s dire health and fitness levels.

She said the proposal wasn’t asking for an expensive upgrade, but to “leave the courts alone”

“It will cost $2 million to demolish (the squash courts) … we don’t have a lazy $2 million to pull it down.”

Cr Lana Formoso said it would cost 0.04 per

Former accused killer fails to get charge tossed

By Tara Cosoleto, AAP

A man previously charged with killing teenager Isla Bell will still face trial on a lesser charge after he lost his bid to have his case permanently stayed.

Marat Ganiev, 55, was initially charged with the murder of Ms Bell, 19, after her remains were found inside a fridge at a Dandenong rubbish tip in 2024.

He was committed to stand trial but the prosecution downgraded the charge to manslaughter once the case reached the Victorian Supreme Court.

About a week before his scheduled trial in May, the prosecution withdrew the manslaughter charge and filed a fresh indictment, accusing Ganiev of attempting to pervert the course of justice.

His barrister argued this was an abuse of process but Justice James Elliott on Friday disagreed, finding the prosecutors were within their right to file a fresh indictment.

“Nothing has transpired that will stop Mr Ganiev from having a fair trial,” the judge said.

A new prosecutor had been retained to run the Ganiev trial and he clearly had formed a different view of the evidence, Justice Elliott said.

cent of the new Oasis development to investigate the squash courts’ viability.

Other activities such as pickleball could be based at the courts to lift daytime usage rates, she said.

“This is about making the best possible decision before removing a long standing community facility.

“Once these courts are gone, they’re gone forever.”

Against the report, Cr Sean O’Reilly warned it would point to running “two Dandenong Oases in perpetuity” with two heating systems, two entry systems and two security systems.

“The difficult decision is to stick to (the original) decision and not keep adding money to the debt pile.”

Cr Bob Milkovic concurred, noting that the new Oasis plans were known for the past seven years.

Pro-squash councillors however argued that the councillors had been led to believe the usage rates were lower than reality.

“The prosecution is entitled to reconsider its case,” the judge said.

“It’s under an ongoing obligation to do so.” Justice Elliott noted applications to permanently stay a proceeding rarely succeeded and the court was concerned with protecting the integrity of its processes.

Ganiev, who watched Friday’s hearing on a video link from prison, showed little emotion as the decision was handed down.

He will return to the Supreme Court for a directions hearing in August.

Ms Bell’s family, friends and supporters filled the courtroom and there were small gasps as Justice Elliott handed down his decision.

Outside court, Ms Bell’s mother Justine Spokes told reporters she could not comment on the result.

“It’s just so gruelling, and my heart aches,” she said through tears.

Another man, Eyal Yaffe, had his charges discontinued by prosecutors in May, after previously facing assist offender and pervert the course of justice.

Cocktail name ‘banned’

By Cam Lucadou-Wells

A recently-firebombed liquor company has failed to overturn a ban on a “highly sexualised” name for one of its products.

80Proof Australia Pty Ltd had taken issue with a ban against promoting and supplying its ‘Wet P***y’ premixed cocktail, also known as ‘Wet P***y Shot’.

On 14 July, Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) senior member Anna Dea upheld the original decision by the Victorian Liquor Commission in 2024.

She agreed with the VLC’s finding that the brand name was “directly or indirectly sexual” and contrary to the public interest.

The VLC had also found the name “objectified and sexualized women” , and “exploited the idea of sexual success or normalized attitudes of lubricating women through alcohol to achieve sexual success”

Ms Dea recounted evidence from 80Proof founder and director Jess Conti, who said the name had been a “well-known and frequently requested shot” for at least 15 years in the Australian nightclub scene.

The shots were one of the most popular drinks, especially with women, he said.

80Proof is “careful that our marketing is not overtly sexual or obscene both because our customer audience would not be attracted to it, and because the social media platforms would not allow it” , Mr Conti told VCAT.

“He did not find the name offensive. He said words to the effect that ‘it is just a drink for 18+ people who drink it in clubs’,” Ms Dea stated.

“I asked whether Conti was aware of any drinks with names which referred to male genitalia. He said he could not bring any to mind.”

Mr Conti said he’d received no complaints or negative feedback about the name.

A ban would lead to an estimated loss of up to $600,000 in sales, he submitted. Plus “hundreds

of thousands of dollars” would be required for a rebrand.

However, Ms Dea said the word ‘p***y’ was “in company with strong swear words which are never acceptable in advertising”

Citing research from a Alcohol Berverages Advertising Code report, a “significant majority of the community” regard the name as “unacceptable in general” and as a name of an alcohol product.

“I find that the strength of these research outcomes outweigh 80Proof’s financial interests in

selling the product.

“The object of harm minimization is furthered by removing a product which has in its name words that cause offence to a significant majority of the community.”

A 15-year-old boy and a 16-year-old boy have admitted in a childrens court to the firebombing of 80Proof’s factory in Atlantic Drive on 23 April, which caused $3.5 million in damage.

The pair were sentenced and released on Thursday 21 May.

The following day, a third teenager was reportedly released on bail and a fourth remained in youth detention pending further assessment.

80Proof owner Danny Grant stated on social media that more than $1 million of stock and a $2.5 million facility were destroyed in the blaze.

“Overnight, eight people lost their jobs and more than 15 people were financially, emotionally and personally impacted by what happened.

“Many of them had families relying on this business and their livelihoods changed instantly.”

Advocating for our region

By David Limbrick, MP, Leader Of The Libertarian Party

Having grown up in south east Melbourne, I love this area, and it’s great to be able to make a difference.

Just this term I have led inquiries into TAC, stamp duty and the Commonwealth Games, addressed over-reach by councils on private land, questioned the cost of machete bins, led the debate against the use of gender medicine on kids, addressed the root causes of organised crime, saved an animal sanctuary from closure, and locked up a serial killer for life.

But obviously there is still much to do.

Part of my job is to be the region’s greatest advocate.

Some of you might remember I created a splash in the media a few years ago by encouraging Disneyland to come to our electorate.

Why not? Whether it’s Disneyland, or a stateof-the-art factory in Dandenong, I truly believe we are capable of anything.

My vision is that the south east should become a place where every business and every family can thrive - even the cartoon characters.

But everybody knows about the challenges.

When I speak to locals, I hear enormous frustration. People just trying to make an honest living feel like everything is stacked against them. Taxes make it so hard to get ahead.

Many people feel they are paying for the Big Build and getting no benefit. The train services are still unreliable, and some of the roads have enough potholes to loosen your fillings.

But probably the biggest concern is crime. Just about everybody has been a victim of crime or knows someone who has. People are genuinely worried. The police do their best, but we just

don’t have enough.

I believe the government needs to tackle the root causes of crime, employ more police, and le-

galise pepper spray and castle law. One thing you can do right now to get more police in our region is sign the petition at davidlimbrick.com.au. If we get enough signa-

that way.

Good news: A family violence response model that works

By Rachel Payne, MP

I’m Rachel Payne MP, a working-class girl, born in Newcastle and the youngest of five children. Over the last three and a half years of politics, I’ve been proud of what I have been able to achieve as a progressive cross-bencher. I’ve advocated for most of what I set out in my inaugural Parliamentary speech. Obviously cannabis is not yet legalised, but it’s a lot more accepted now than it was, particularly in the medical space. But one thing I still want to do more work in is the prevention of family violence. A topic that is close to my heart, with a grandmother who experienced it for most of her married life.

There is so much talk in the community and media about family violence at the moment. While it is great that we are facing this epidemic openly, I understand it can feel a bit overwhelming.

I have been working closely with organisations and individuals in this space, and there is an idea that helps immensely – we just need to see it more widely adopted.

The “Alexis Family Violence Response Model” (Alexis FVRM) has delivered extraordinary results. It is a coordinated police and social services model that embeds a family violence specialist worker within police units. This means there’s a police member to respond to immediate crises, and a family violence specialist to help the victim, assess risk, and connect people to services. Police and support together.

The Alexis Model gives police the support they need, and victim-survivors the help they deserve.

The outcomes:

• 66% of victim-survivors left the program at lower risk

• 85% reduction in recidivism among perpetrators

• 78% of victim-survivors felt supported

• 83% of engagement by victims (despite the well-

known difficulty in doing this)

Very importantly, most victim-survivors who took part in the survey said they felt safer, more supported, and better helped through the coordinated response from police and support services. Work needs to be done to make sure the model meets the needs of CALD and other minority communities, but it is a good start.

The Alexis-FVRM has been piloted across five municipalities in Victoria, and I asked the Parliamentary Budget Office what it would cost to expand it state-wide. Remarkably it would only cost the Victorian Government $10 million per year. It is affordable, and it can be scaled. The time for talk is done and this week, I am calling in Parliament on the Labor Government to expand it statewide.

Rachel Payne, MP

Three-hour rolling strike

Victorian allied health professionals walked off the job for three hours at Monash Medical Centre in Clayton on Thursday 23 July, as their dispute with the Allan Government over pay and workforce conditions continued to escalate across Melbourne.

Physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, podiatrists, social workers, sonographers and radiographers are among members of the Health Services Union Victoria No. 3 Branch and the Victorian Allied Health Professionals Association (VAHPA) taking industrial action.

Union members held a lunchtime rally outside McCulloch House at Monash Clayton from midday before Frankston workers rallied outside Peninsula University Hospital at 2.15pm.

Teresa Rumph, a radiographer at Monash Medical Centre, says there’s been no new offer from the Government since a 24-hour statewide strike of thousands of allied health workers on June 16.

“We’re going to go and do another lunchtime rally next Friday (31 July). We’re not getting much traction from the Government - I don’t think they’re listening.

“People are feeling a lot of frustration.”

She said workers were undertaking protected industrial actions to impact hospitals’ finances but not patient care, such as by not billing patients for certain procedures,

The offer, which landed most professions a rise of between 19 and 21 per cent, came despite the FWC handing down a decision on allied health this year that closely mirrors the ruling used to deliver a landmark gender equity outcome for Victorian nurses in 2024.

In comparison, allied health workers were being “undervalued” despite being the secondbiggest workforce in hospitals.

They were also the worst paid in Australia, Rumph said, having accepted wage rises in the past that were “less than inflation”

“It’s a bit concerning that the state election is coming - you’d expect Labor to be a fairer government for workers. Will we get a worse offer from a Liberal Government.”

VAHPA executive officer Andrew Hewat said workers at two of Melbourne’s major health services were joining colleagues across Victoria in demanding the government properly value their work.

“Monash and Peninsula health services care for large and rapidly growing communities, and

neither could function without its allied health workforce,” Mr Hewat said.

“These professionals help patients recover from surgery, regain their mobility, communicate, manage chronic illness, safely leave hospital and avoid being admitted again.

“The Fair Work Commission has confirmed their work has been historically undervalued because it has traditionally been performed by women, yet the Allan Government’s offer still falls well short of correcting that injustice.

“The government has had every opportunity to resolve this dispute. Instead, it has left workers with no choice but to continue escalating action across the state.”

LOOKING BACK

100 years ago

29 July 1926

DANDENONG TOWN HALL

Complaints by the Caretaker

At the meeting of the Dandenong Shire council, Mr Whitwell, hall caretaker, reported that he had a lot of trouble during the past few weeks with the electric light in the hall and other parts of the building, due to the overloading of the meters and the worn-out flex. His opinion is the whole needs rewiring, and unless the matter was rectified it was going to cost the council a considerable amount for globes, not to mention the fire risk. The floor of the hall needed immediate attention as it was becoming unfit for dancing. The Harrold Jazz Co had discontinued their weekly dances through the bad state of the floor. Cr Harris said: “If the Charleston keeps coming, we won’t need to worry about the floors.”

50 years ago

29 July 1976

Traffic lights will go in …

After a heated debate, Dandenong Council decided to “go it alone” and install traffic lights at the intersection of Railway Pde, Jones Rd, and Bennett St. Dandenong Council will have to apply to the Road Safety and Traffic Authority for permission, but because council has decided to pay for the installation, there seems little doubt ROSTA will approve it.

20 years ago

24 July 2006

Club working for bear necessities

Saving moon bears held in captivity in China is the pet project for a dedicated group of students at Dandenong High School. For seven years, members of the Moon Bear Club have raised about $14,000 from lunchtime fundraising activities to help the work of the Animals Asia Foundation. The Chinese value moon

INTERFAITH

bears for their bile, which has been used for medicine for thousands of years. Science teacher Leia Port, who volunteers with AAF in Melbourne, was the catalyst for the formation of the club. “The students’ initial interest in the moon bears started after we talked about them in class. They wanted to help the bears and I started thinking about forming the club.” She thanked the students who had participated and

said: “You have helped many animals in Asia and your compassion is heart-warming and a wonderful example to other people.”

5 years ago

27 July 2021

Animals get ‘dream house’

After years of anticipation, Australia Animal Protection Society finally moved into its stateof-the-art home. The gleaming new facility is

built for purpose on a 15-acre industrial plot just off Perry Road, Keysborough. It features a shelter for dog, cat and ‘pocket’ pets’ adoptions, a veterinary clinic, cat ‘retirement’ home, reception offices, puppy school opp shop and dog grooming facilities. The AAPS now has capacity to help more animals – up to 20 dogs and 140 cats in the shelter – as well as to raise more funds to sustain the not-for-profit charity.

My response when asked

By Anne Bellavance, national president of Women’s Federation for

World

Peace, Australia and IFN Member

When people ask me whether I believe in God, my response often surprises them.

I tell them that, for me, God is not simply a matter of faith or belief.

God is a living relationship that I experience every day.

I see God—our Creator, our Heavenly Parent, Allah—as the Parent of all humanity, not belonging to one religion, denomination, or culture.

We are all members of one global family, each deeply loved and valued.

No one has exclusive ownership of God because divine love embraces every person equally.

One of the greatest realisations in my life has been that God’s love is unconditional.

It isn’t something we earn through perfection or lose through our mistakes.

From the moment we are born, we are already loved.

That love never disappears.

MESSAGE

OF HOPE

It remains constant, patiently waiting for us to recognise it and respond.

Yet I believe many of us struggle to experience this love because we spend so much of our lives looking outside ourselves.

We search for answers in achievements, opinions, possessions, or even religious rituals, while overlooking the quiet place within our own hearts where genuine connection begins.

Over time, I have come to understand that the doorway to God is found in the deepest part of our heart.

When we learn to quiet our minds, listen honestly, and become present, we begin to experience a relationship that is personal, living, and

transformative.

It is not something reserved for special moments; it is available every day, in every conversation, every decision, and every act of love.

I do not experience God as distant or judgemental.

Instead, I experience a loving Parent who longs for a genuine relationship with each of us and who patiently waits for us to discover the person we were created to become.

That relationship continually challenges me to grow in compassion, humility, forgiveness, and gratitude.

As we deepen this connection, something remarkable happens.

We begin to see others differently.

We recognise the sacred value within every person and naturally desire to treat others with greater kindness, empathy, and respect.

Our relationships become richer, our purpose becomes clearer, and our lives become expressions of the love we have received.

For me, this is what it means to know God— not simply to believe, but to live each day in a growing relationship of heart that transforms how I see myself, others, and the world.

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

‘Time bomb’ intersection

By Violet Li

Locals are renewing calls for traffic lights at a busy Hallam intersection, saying long queues and near misses are being overlooked because many incidents may not appear in official crash data.

A petition tabled in State Parliament by SouthEastern Metropolitan MP Ann-Marie Hermans last October called for traffic lights, road widening, pedestrian facilities and an interim traffic measure at Hallam South Road, Centre Road and O’Grady Road.

The petition had more than 400 signatures.

HP Fire manager Hayden Poper said getting out of Centre Road could take up to 10 minutes in heavy traffic.

“It’s probably one of the worst I’ve had to deal with in terms of the amount of traffic coming down Hallam South Road, plus the amount of businesses trying to get out of Centre Road,” he said.

Mr Poper said he had saved CCTV footage of about 10 incidents, including one this year in which a vehicle was struck and rolled one-anda-half times.

He estimated he became aware of at least one crash every three or four weeks, though minor collisions could occur without nearby businesses noticing.

He said danger increased when trucks waiting to turn right into O’Grady Road blocked the lane and other motorists used a left-turn-only lane to

pass, putting them in conflict with vehicles crossing into Centre Road.

Petition organiser Rosalie Crestani, who previously worked in the industrial estate, said the problem had existed for about 20 years and worsened after the Hallam level crossing was removed, eliminating breaks in traffic that once helped motorists leave Centre Road.

The Roads Minister Melissa Horne’s response to last year’s petition said the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) considered safety, congestion, road-user numbers, vulnerable road users, historical crash records, surrounding network impacts and cost when assessing upgrades.

It said there were no current plans to change the intersection.

Ms Hermans described the location as a “time bomb” and said she would continue raising the issue in Parliament.

When contacted, a DTP spokesperson has advised that there had been no recorded crashes or casualties at the intersection in the past five years.

The department also advised that its system relied on incidents attended and reported by Victoria Police.

Speed limits and zones are reviewed on a caseby-case basis in response to community feedback or changes to the road environment.

“We work closely with local council as well as our road safety partners to maintain our road network and identify any necessary improvements,” the spokesperson said.

Green horizons for National Tree Day

Growers got their hands dirty in adding greenery to reserves in Keysborough and Dandenong North for National Tree Day.

Greater Dandenong Council hosted tree planting activities at Somerfield Reserve on 25 July and Tirhatuan Reserve the following day.

The events included a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony by Traditional Custodians, native plant giveaways, wildlife presentation and free sausage sizzle.

National Tree Day is marking 30 years since its inception by Planet Ark in 1996. A schools national tree day was held on Friday 24 July.

Mango Festival draws crowds

By Sahar Foladi

The Pakistani Mango and Multicultural event in Springvale received a great turnout from the South East community and across Victoria.

Organised by Agha Juice in partnership with Agha Mangoes, Victoria’s Premier, Jacin-

ta Allan also made an appearance, taste-tested the Pakistani mango along with Bruce MP Julian Hill, Lily D’Ambrosio MP and state member MP’s from across Victoria including Bronwyn Halfpenny, Meng Heang.

The Premier delivered a speech and sat to watch the entertaining dance performance

from groups.

TheeventonSaturday18JulyatSpringvale’s Sandown Racecourse was filled with children, families and individuals enjoying a variety of displays, like the fun rides, face-painting, nonstop stage entertainment of Pakistani music, band singing, and dance groups.

Community safety begins next door

by Dalal Smiley, chief executive of Wellsprings for Women

The Community Connections Network, made up of seven neighbourhood houses in Greater Dandenong, submitted a budget submission last year to the State Government seeking funding for a Neighbourhood Safe Spaces project.

Youth victims of crime in Greater Dandenong have increased by 20 per cent since 2021, while youth offending has risen by 32 per cent. Community perceptions of safety remain stubbornly low, particularly among women.

Only 19 per cent of women in Greater Dandenong report feeling safe walking alone at night, less than half the Victorian average.

Harm caused by crime has also increased significantly across the municipality

When communities feel unsafe, governments often focus on enforcement.

But the evidence is clear: lasting community safety is built long before police intervention becomes necessary.

In Greater Dandenong, this points to an urgent need for greater investment in prevention, neighbourhood connection and community-led safety initiatives.

The Victorian Government has an opportunity to invest in one of the most effective, trusted and cost-efficient safety infrastructures already operating in our community - neighbourhood houses.

In 2025, the Community Connections Network conducted a comprehensive social cohesion and community wellbeing survey involving 276 residents from across the municipality.

The results paint a concerning picture of safety concerns, but also reveal an extraordinary opportunity for prevention and community-led action

The survey found that 62 per cent of respondentsdidnotfeelsafewalkingintheirneighbourhood at night, while 34 per cent actively avoided public places because of safety concerns.

Almost one in three respondents reported either being directly affected by a safety-related incident or knowing someone who had been.

The consequences extend beyond fear of crime alone.

More than one in five respondents reported feeling isolated, suggesting that safety concerns are contributing to reduced social participation and weaker neighbourhood connections.

This is important because decades of research demonstrates that communities with stronger social connections experience better safety outcomes, greater resilience and lower levels of crime and antisocial behaviour.

However, perhaps the most important finding was not what people fear, but what they are willing to do about it.

The survey found that:

- 87 per cent of respondents were willing to participate in neighbourhood activities

- 73 per cent already interact with members of their community regularly

- 61 per cent expressed willingness to engage in future neighbourhood initiatives through their local neighbourhood house.

This tells us something profound.

The challenge in Greater Dandenong is not community apathy.

Residents want to be involved. They want safer neighbourhoods. They want stronger local connections. They are ready to participate in solutions.

What they need is the infrastructure, coordination and leadership to bring their efforts together.

This is where neighbourhood houses become indispensable.

The survey found that 79 per cent of respondents trust community organisations, a remarkable level of confidence at a time when trust in many institutions is declining.

Neighbourhood houses have developed this trust over decades through their deep cultural knowledge, multilingual workforce and long-standing relationships with local communities.

They are often the first place people turn to for support, information and connection.

Importantly, the survey also identified challenges that neighbourhood houses are uniquely positioned to address.

While 86 per cent of respondents reported feeling a sense of belonging in their community, many also felt unheard, unacknowledged and underappreciated.

Nearly two-thirds felt their opinions were not accepted, while 69 per cent felt their strengths were not recognised.

These findings highlight a critical gap between belonging and participation.

People feel connected to their communities but often lack meaningful opportunities to shape what happens within them.

The Neighbourhood Safe Spaces proposal directly addresses this challenge through community co-design.

It will empower residents to identify local safety hotspots, develop neighbourhood responses and work alongside Victoria Police, Council and service providers.

And so, the project transforms residents from passive recipients of services into active partners in community safety.

This is precisely what modern crime prevention evidence tells us works.

Crime and fear of crime are highly concentrated in particular places.

Effective prevention therefore requires trusted local organisations capable of identifying risks early, mobilising residents, strengthening relationships and creating targeted interventions where they are needed most.

The seven neighbourhood houses of Greater Dandenong are already embedded in these communities.

They already know the people, understand the local dynamics and have the trust required to bring communities together around shared solutions.

Collectively, the Community Connections Network reaches approximately 5,400 people

Some people in the audience also took to the floor.

Consulate General of Pakistan, Wajid Hashmi and Pakistan’s High Commissioner, Irfan Shaukat also attended.

each week and attracts around 216,000 visits annually.

These are not occasional visitors. They are local families, seniors, young people, newly arrived migrants and community leaders who already trust these organisations.

The Community Connections Network’s proposal recognises a simple but powerful truth: neighbourhood safety is strongest when communities are actively involved in creating it.

The proposal would establish local grassroots safety networks, identify neighbourhood hotspots, develop community-led solutions, strengthen relationships with Victoria Police and increase awareness of community safety across diverse cultural groups.

Importantly, this approach is not based on theory alone.

It builds on evidence from successful crime prevention initiatives across Victoria and international research demonstrating that social cohesion, participation and local connections are amongst the strongest protective factors against violence and crime.

When neighbours know each other, trust each other and work together to solve local problems, communities become safer.

The economic case is just as compelling.

Every dollar invested in prevention has the potential to reduce future costs associated with policing, courts, youth justice, family violence services, health systems and community recovery.

By identifying emerging issues early and intervening before they escalate, neighbourhood houses can help reduce demand on more expensive crisis responses.

The Victorian Government often speaks about addressing the root causes of crime. This budget bid offers an opportunity to do exactly that.

The choice is straightforward.

We can continue spending more on responding to harm after it occurs, thus adding more harm through punitive measures, or we can invest in preventing harm before it takes hold.

Funding Greater Dandenong’s neighbourhood houses is an evidence-based community safety investment.

And it is an investment whose time has come.

Push to preserve history

By Sahar Foladi

Greater Dandenong Council is exploring a move to shore up funding for Dandenong and Springvale historical societies’ critical work.

Councillor Sean O’Reilly moved at a Monday 20 July meeting to explore funding arrangements for a baseline model in support of the societies’ core operational and administrative functions.

DandenongandDistrictHistoricalSocietyhas been operational for 60 years, collecting, writing and preserving Greater Dandenong’s past stories of its residents and families - with the support of the council through community grants.

The critical work continued despite the insecurity of council funding until the day arrived when the council rejected the society’s submission for a $4000 grant.

Local trusted historian, Christine Keys ensured the society remained operational, and paid out of her own pocket after their grant was rejected for a computer server upgrade.

“We don’t have the generation of income that enables us to upgrade our machines and to have appropriate archive materials. We don’t have the amount of money to continue to do it.

“I put up a grant because we need to renew our server to ensure we could run on Windows 11. To my shock, we were knocked back for that grant.

“It’ll allow me to not have to be thinking how we will survive, allow our treasurer to sleep at night. It would mean that I wouldn’t always apply for grants, not knowing if we’ll get it.”

The works of the historical society is well-documented and widespread.

Ms Keys is a long-time author of the Looking Back series, bringing stories from Dandenong Journal’s 160-year history. She is also on Greater Dandenong Council’s cultural heritage advisory committee.

Cr O’Reilly says funding arrangements will be considered by council officers in a the report to be presented in three months.

“For a couple of reasons we switched more

to grant-based where they had to re-apply every year.

“If council expects historical societies to do baseline works, then the funding should match that.”

The council has assisted historical societies in the past by providing them their Dandenong and Springvale offices.

However, Cr Rhonda Garad says the council should take on their administrative and digitisation work.

She says this will allow the volunteers to focus on real work like they used to, such as excursions for local school students to educate them about Dandenong’s history.

“It’s really critical that we have the knowledge

these volunteers bring, but also we’re not flogging them to death.”

The historical societies constantly upload their collections on the Victorian Collection database in partnership between Museums Victoria and the government.

The database is open to the general public to be used for multiple reasons, including research.

So far, 1011 collections have been uploaded by volunteers.

One of the most important and standout works is the information compiled on the Stud Road police paddock in the 1830s, where native police officers were recruited.

“They recruited Aboriginal people, rural men to the native police force there because they knew

the land,” Ms Keys said.

“A lot of people are interested in the history of Police paddocks. Someone came to us because they were doing a PhD on it.

“One of the researchers who came to us was doing some work for the Bunurong Land Council on the Police Paddocks and how the Aboriginals have been involved there.”

The council will take on this chunk of digitalisation works to allow a total of 14 volunteers to run community programs and more.

Ms Keys was awarded the Greater Dandenong Citizen of the Year in 2020 and Living Treasure this year. She is one of the prominent members of Greater Dandenong, where her ancestors lived and contributed immensely.

Heartbreak provokes play

By Sahar Foladi

A heart-wrenching play based on a real story from Gaza is coming to Keysborough in September.

The play titled, ‘The Return,’ is inspired by martyred Palestinian sisters Nagham and Rozan Abu Samra, killed by an Israeli strike on Gaza in 2024.

The award-winning Palestinian Australian writer, director and filmmaker Ala’a Al Qaisi’s play takes it a step further to portray their father Marwan Abu Sama’s resilience.

“It’s a very surreal, imaginative. It takes you to a different reality - dreamlike.

“It’s spiritual, explores Sufism, how they heal with pain and grief.”

Rozan passed away immediately, Nagham survived but needed to get out of Gaza for critical treatment.

After much pleading by the father, they were granted permission out of Gaza for treatment in

Egypt, but Nagham too passed away.

Nagham was a karate champion who was on track to represent Palestine at the Olympic Games.

“I just feel suffocated inside,” Ms Qaisi says.

“I felt helpless, this feeling forced me to try and create a whole new reality.

“When I came back (from Egypt) I started to understand his grievance and that’s when I started to write this play.

“The play is humane, not political. It takes you to philosophical questions, the dehumanisation, desensitisation of Palestinians.

“It’s not about division it’s about bringing people under one roof and driving discussions.”

The play focuses on the human aspects and sufferings of Palestinians, and it’s also a platform for diverse audience, especially supporters of Israel, to ask questions, to hear and see the other side, she says.

“Many Jews had attended previously and

asked questions. It was a good opportunity.

“For our Arab community, for whoever feels this (genocide) should stop, it’s very healing. It gets you to see what your mind can’t comprehend, to heal through art.

“For people who are neutral, don’t care or are

supporters, this is a space for them to come try to relate, feel and see both sides.

“I want to bring in diverse audiences, especially those who support the Israelis.

“It provokes lot of discussions on the meaning of life after losing everything in your life. What makes a human to be a killer, to dehumanise a group of people, and more deep questions.”

As a Palestinian herself, Ms Qaisi has never had the privilege to visit her home country after her grandparents were forced to move to Jordan in the 1948 Nakba, which created the State of Israel at the expense of 700,000 Palestinians’ mass displacement and exile.

The play is coming to Melbourne for the first time after making tours in Sydney. It will be staged on 19 September at Keysborough Chandler Community Centre.

Bookings: events.humanitix.com/the-returnplay-melbourne/tickets

Second life for trees throughout City of Casey

Casey Council says it’s giving trees that are removed for their age or infrastructure pressures a second life by converting them into community assets.

Over the last three years, the council says it has repurposed urban forest timber to support nature play and other projects across the municipality.

Across Casey, the council manages about 340,000 trees with more than 2500 trees removed each year from streets and reserves after reaching the end of their life or because of development and infrastructure pressures.

Arborists identify suitable trees and log sections for repurposing to be used as community assets.

The council says the program has reduced the need to purchase new timber, while also re-

WHAT’S ON

Finger Knitting

Relaxed, social drop-in session. Learn simple finger knitting techniques with facilitator Maroulla’s guidance and create your own soft, stylish belt. Materials provided. Or bring along your own art and craft projects such as painting, sewing, collage, or origami. All welcome.

■ Wednesday 29 July, 6.30pm-8pm at Springvale Library, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Waste Wise Pop-Up

Drop in and chat with Council’s Waste Education team on Recycling Coffee Cups and Soft Plastics. Topics include why can’t coffee cups go in the recycling bin, and what should you do with soft plastics.

■ Thursday 30 July, 10am-12pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. No bookings required. Indian Embroidery workshop

Join us for a mindful stitching session on Kantha, a traditional Indian embroidery technique known for its simplicity, beauty and storytelling. For ages 16-plus.

■ Thursday 30 July, 6pm-7.30pm at Keysborough Community Hub, 10 Villiers Road, Keysborough; free event. Registration required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/eventdetail/ev_e956a59304774ceda73151ddbecc3f0e

Fantastic Fossils

Part of the STEAM Festival. Explore different types of rocks and how fossils reveal the story of life on Earth. Using real specimens and digital microscopes. Presented by Life Rocks. Suitable for children in upper primary school.

■ Tuesday 4 August, 4.30pm-5.30pm at Springvale Library, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Registration required at https:// greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/ event-detail/ev_a3658380e04b4c4eb1cf5fa9508d3849

Heritage Hill tour

Learn about the distinctive design of Benga and Laurel Lodge and learn how these homes reflect the elegance of their eras.

ducing disposal and tree removal landfill costs.

Casey Mayor, Stefan Koomen says the initiative has contributed largely to playground designs including Baden Powell Reserve Playground, Betula Reserve Playground in Doveton and Glover Reserve Playground in Devon Meadows.

“These projects have successfully incorporated reclaimed timber logs into nature play elements, creating unique and engaging play experiences,” he said.

Most recently, the Essex Dog Park Project located in Endeavour Hills made use of the repurposed logs.

Beyond playgrounds, some timber will also be revitalised for fencing, bollards, signage posts and other public infrastructure.

■ Thursday 6 August, 10.30am-11.30am at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong; $5. Bookings required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net. au/#!/event-detail/ev_bb570e95dd5d4379b41c3944a54de742

Share your memories of the Drum

To celebrate Drum Theatre’s 20th Anniversary in 2026, we’re inviting you to join a community recording session and share the moments, people and experiences that have been meaningful to you. Your story will become part of a lasting oral history collection.

■ Thursday 6 August, 12pm-3pm (straight after Encore) and Thursday 13 August, 3pm-6pm at Drum Theatre, cnr Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong. Registrations required via email at arts@cgd.vic.gov.au.

Cultural Sketch

Creatives from Victorian State Ballet. speak candidly about their practice—their influences, rituals and realities—while you are invited to respond in your own way. Sketch the speaker, their objects, the atmosphere, or let the stories guide your hand. For adults. Materials provided, refreshments served.

■ Thursday 6 August, 6pm-8pm at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, cnr Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong; $8. Registrations essential at greaterdandenong-events.bookable. net.au/#!/event-book/ev_e58860132ea849fa a3742696a63d3f37?eventDateID=1334

Turn Negatives to Digital Photos

Bring in your old photo negatives and learn how to use the library’s Kodak Slide N Scan to digitise them.

■ Friday 7 August, 2.30pm-3.30pm at Springvale Library, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Registration required at greaterdandenongevents.bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ev_cb22406d745c483ab1d5dfe01b25872c

Loneliness Awareness Week

Join Mental Health and Wellbeing Local Dandenong for a warm and welcoming morning where you can try something new, share a cuppa, meet others, and build meaningful connections in your

local community.

■ Saturday 8 August, 9.45am-11.45am at Keysborough Community Hub, 10 Villiers Road, Keysborough; free event. No registration required. Silly Science Show

Step into the quirky world of Professor Q. E. Done, the eccentric Dean of the National Institute of Silly Science. Combining magic, circus skills, comedy and hands-on STEM concepts. Suitable for ages 7-12.

■ Saturday 8 August, 10am-11am at Keysborough Community Hub, 10 Villiers Road, Keysborough; free entry. Registration required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/ event-detail/ev_14fad981e9bd4443b10cc4f4 5b77c9db

Poetry Open Mic

Perc.U.lations is a welcoming, community-led poetry space that celebrates the voices of local writers and spoken word performers.

■ Saturday 8 August, 2.30pm-4.30pm at Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong. Sustainability Sessions

Container and Small-Space Gardening workshop. Perfect for balconies, patios, or cosy backyards, this session will help you grow fresh herbs, veggies, flowers or even fruit trees in compact areas.

■ Sunday 9 August, 1pm-3pm at Keysborough Community Hub, 10 Villiers Road, Keysborough; free event. Bookings required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ ev_e67545311c054794a1fec24bfe3521eb

Quiet Proof Street photography exhibition by Alberto Burgos.

■ Mondays-Fridays 10am-4pm until 10 August at Drum Theatre Foyer, cnr Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong; free entry.

VR Travel

Explore the world without the hassle of travelling. Using VR headsets, you can stroll the streets of Colombo, take in the sights of Beijing, and explore the vibrant landmarks of Delhi or visit any other city you wish to experience. For ages 15-plus.

■ Thursday 13 August 10am-10.20am, 10.30am-

10.50am and 11am-11.20am at Endeavour Hills Library, 10 Raymond McMahon Boulevard, Endeavour Hills; free event. Bookings: events. connectedlibraries.org.au/event?id=215935 Artificial Intelligence

Explore AI with Copilot for beginners, learn what it can do and discover practical ways it can help you.

■ Friday 14 August, 2.30pm-3.30pm at Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free event. Registration required at greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/ event-detail/ev_f113626e03b94ce1a67f9487faffd925

Ragam Resonance

This performance, curated by local artists, explores the depth and beauty of the Carnatic vocal tradition. A Sangam Labs project in collaboration with Keerthana Music School. Supported by City of Greater Dandenong’s Creative Access Program.

■ Saturday 15 August, 3.30pm-5pm at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, corner Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong. Bookings essential at greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/greaterdandenong-council/events/keerthana-musicschool-presents-ragam-resonance

Eco-IQ Exhibition

Wona Bae and Charlie Lawler: Primary Succession is a sculptural and immersive installation that considers a climate-altered future shaped by ecointelligence and ecological memory.

■ Wednesdays-Sundays until 15 August, 11am3pm at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, cnr Walker and Robinson streets, Dandenong; free event.

Composting workshop

Practical knowledge on converting household food and garden waste into nutrient-rich compost. Part of National Science Week celebrations. As part of the event, one lucky participant will win a compost bin.

■ Wednesday 19 August, 10.30am at North Dandenong Neighbourhood House, 41 Menzies Avenue, North Dandenong; free event. No bookings required.

SPORT Burners hunt down simmering Hawks

By David Nagel

Rowville is currently experiencing what its Eastern Premier Division finals campaign might look like after the Hawks were steamrolled late by Blackburn at Morton Park on Saturday.

Goals either side of three-quarter time to Seth Macdonald gave the Hawks a 19-point lead, five minutes into the final term, before the Burners kicked four on the bounce to win 16.12(108) to 15.10(100).

The second-placed Hawks now need to dust themselves off and go again against high-quality opposition - just like in finals - with a top-of-thetable clash against ladder-leaders East Ringwood set down for 2.20pm at Seebeck Oval this Saturday.

Rowville trailed by six points at quarter time but a 6.3 to 3.2 second term set up a 13-point advantage at the major interval.

The third quarter was an absolute cracker, with Blackburn kicking the opening two goals of the term before the Hawks fired back with two of their own.

The teams then went goal for goal, landing 5.3 each for the quarter, with a late set shot to Macdonald keeping the visitors ahead by 13 points at the final break.

Macdonald then opened the final stanza with a spectacular grab and polished finish at goal, after some terrific set up play from Tyler Edwards.

The Hawks had all the momentum, before a poor decision from Nik Schoenmakers in the ruck provided the Burners with the six-point gift they were looking for.

Schoenmakers kicked one off the ground after a ruck contest, deep in the Burners forward line, which fell into the arms of Mackenzie Doreian.

He went back and closed the gap to its original status of 13 points; the home side back in with a sniff.

Jackson Carmody and Toby Wooller then landed consecutive blows for the Burners, with Rowville’s lead cut to a solitary point at the 18-minute mark of the final term.

The Hawks then found themselves chasing the scoreboard, for the first time since five minutes into the second quarter, when Doreian nailed a special goal on the run from the boundary.

Handy points to Wooller and Patrick Lawlor then made it a two-kick game, before Doreian kicked the final point of the match.

The versatile Macdonald kicked four goals for Rowville, and Mav Taylor three, while two goals to last-week’s hero Lachie Wynd were also impor-

tant when the Hawks built their lead in the second term.

Schoenmakers was terrific in the ruck, but will rue that costly mistake, while Liam Coghlan and skipper Anthony Brolic were serviceable fourquarter contributors.

The loss ends the Hawks’ hopes of finishing top of the ladder this year, but shouldn’t halt their charge towards a double chance.

They only need to win one of their final four games, against East Ringwood (1st), Berwick (6th), Doncaster East (3rd) and Balwyn (7th) to solidify a top-three finish.

Noble Park, meanwhile, is still staring relegation square in the face after the Bulls suffered a 14.16(100) to 11.9(75) defeat to Vermont.

The Bulls had a purple patch either side of half time, kicking five of six goals to take a slender lead early in the third quarter.

Vermont then took back control with four straight, before brilliant goals to Lachie McDonnell and Liam O’Rourke, both from deep in the same pocket, saw the Bulls close to 11 points in the final term.

But Vermont once again steadied, kicking three unanswered goals, to guarantee possession of the four premiership points.

Ben Marson kicked three goals for the Bulls, and Tom Bower and O’Rourke two each, while Luke Molinaro, Kane Marshall and Daniel Knapper joined McDonnell and Bower as the Bulls best players on the day.

There are only four remaining opportunities for the Bulls to drag themselves from the bottom rung of the ladder.

That quest begins this week with a visit to sixth-placed Berwick.

• EASTERNPREMIER

RESULTS R14: Balwyn 16.11(107) def South Belgrave 13.13(91), East Ringwood 18.8(116) def Berwick 13.14(92), Vermont 14.16(100) def Noble Park 11.9(75), Blackburn 16.12(108) def Rowville 15.10(100), Doncaster East 10.14(74) def by South Croydon 12.7(79).

LADDER: East Ringwood 52, Rowville 44, Doncaster East 40, Blackburn 32, Vermont 32/ Berwick 28, Balwyn 26, South Croydon 18, South Belgrave 4, Noble Park 4.

FIXTURE R15 (Saturday 1 August): Berwick (6) v Noble Park (10), Rowville (2) v East Ringwood (1), South Croydon (8) v Balwyn (7), Doncaster East (3) v Blackburn (4), Vermont (5) v South Belgrave (9).

Richardson off to the biggest stage in darts

By David Nagel

The Dandenong-based Mountain Dart League (MDL) is celebrating a massive achievement from one of its very own after Christine Richardson won the Darts Australia Pacific Masters in Western Australia on Sunday.

The win qualifies Richardson as one of two Australian representatives at the World Darts Federation (WDF) World Darts Championship to be held at Lakeside in England in late November. Lakeside is globally known as the ‘Home of World Darts’ , hosting World Championships since 1986.

Richardson easily qualified for the round of 32 via a round-robin format, before whitewashing her first three opponents in the knockout rounds.

Richardson defeated Jordie Clarke, Natalie Carter and Julie Lewis 4-0, before rolling Alyssa Moody 5-3 in a tense semi-final showdown.

Richardson then proved too strong for Tiarna Dorotich in the final, winning 6-3 to earn her trip to England.

The highlight of the final was a 12-dart leg for Richardson, who pegged out on 60 after consecutive visits of 140, 180 and 121.

Richardson plays for Noble Park in the MDL, while also playing for Snipers in the South West Gippsland Dart League (SWGDL), based in Nar Nar Goon.

Dandenong teams race against time

By Justin Schwarze

Dandenong Thunder was ‘unofficially’ relegated in round 22 of the NPL after losing 2-0 to Altona at George Andrews Reserve.

The Magic were one of the teams on the relegation bubble, so the game was effectively a ‘six-pointer’ in regards to avoiding the drop.

The game went into halftime knotted without troubling the scorers, but the visitors had absolutely dominated play and reaped no rewards.

Altona had fired seven shots on target and 11 in total but came up empty in the opening 45 minutes, while Thunder managed just one accurate attempt from two shots.

The visitors finally broke through in the 60th minute, when a John Mabok cross weaved its way through traffic to Owen McCloskey at the back post and he was free to tap it into an open net.

Altona doubled its advantage three minutes later, when a poor pass from Yoshiki Terasaka was picked off in the midfield by Alexander Gust.

Gust carried the ball to just outside the box before laying it off to Aymane Sordo on the left.

Sordo dribbled in space and fired a rocket with his left boot past the outstretched hand of Lewis Alvarez into the right-hand side of the net.

The Magic rode it to post the crucial scalp, moving seven points clear of the drop with four rounds remaining.

Thunder trails crosstown rivals Dandenong City by eight points in the last spot for safety.

But City didn’t do much to release any relegation pressure on itself as it drew 0-0 with bottom-placed Green Gully on the road.

The first half was defensive and played in the midfield, with neither team registering a shot on target, while Dandenong managed three inaccurate attempts.

City avoided a scare in the final 45 minutes as the hosts were the better side, firing two shots on target to Dandenong’s one, but neither team could find the back of the net and thus shared a point each.

Bentleigh’s 1-0 defeat to Preston ensured City stayed four points clear of the drop zone.

Round 23 is a huge one, with the Dandy Derby scheduled for George Andrews Reserve.

City can all but end its rivals’ hopes of staying in the top flight, while Thunder can add another twist to the relegation fight.

Holt’s 13 the headline act

By Blair Burns

Marc Holt wound back the clock in his 300th game for Cranbourne as the club legend kicked 13 goals in a huge win over Port Melbourne in Southern Division 1.

The Eagles registered their biggest win under coach Angelo Soldatos as they pumped the undermanned Colts by 110 points, 24.13 (157) to 7.5 (47).

It was a day of celebration for Holt as a huge crowd turned out largely for one man, and he delivered six goals in the first term to lead 58-0 at quarter time.

The Colts are in a tough spot at the moment and unfortunately had to forfeit the reserves match due to numbers, with the senior side also depleted.

It was a comprehensive victory for Cranbourne and it was a shootout late with the Eagles kicking eight fourth-quarter goals, while the Colts managed five of their seven late.

The final five minutes once again revolved around Holt as the team tried to feed him for his 1500th career goal, and the Eagles faithful tried to will him over the line, requiring just one more kick.

But despite some late efforts, the siren beat him and he finished the game stranded on 1499, with the milestone having to wait until this weekend.

While the day was rightfully about the greatest to ever do it at Cranbourne, the brand of footy that the young Eagles played was exciting.

They moved the ball well and converted on opportunities to kick a huge score, with contributions from everyone.

Andrew Green was elite off half back, while the likes of Shaun Keenan, Brock Van Loon, Bailey Buntine and Zak Roscoe all impressed. - Trent Marotta finished with three majors.

Narre Warren didn’t have things all its own way against Murrumbeena, but managed to get

back on the winners’ list and snap a two-game losing streak, prevailing 15.11 (101) to 9.7 (61).

The Lions performed well and while the final margin ballooned out to 40 points, they were only down by four points at the beginning of the third quarter.

The Magpies kicked eight goals to three from

Froling masterclass helps Rangers fight off elimination

By Justin Schwarze

Harry Froling heroics powered Dandenong Rangers Men through the elimination final and into the next round of the NBL1 South postseason after outlasting Kilsyth on Saturday night.

The Rangers earned the final on their home court after finishing seventh in the home-andaway season.

Kilsyth was up and about early, starting with an 8-0 run out of the gates, before Dandenong settled its nerves and tied things up at 20 at quarter time.

Both teams were very paint-centric to open the contest, with the hosts scoring 12 points in tight to the Cobras’ eight.

Joe Palmer carried the load offensively in the first for the Rangers, scoring nine points himself in the quarter.

But then it was Froling’s turn to take over and the big man owned the second term, scoring 23 points and tipping the game in his side’s favour.

He started things with an ‘and-one’ on an offensive rebound before hitting three triples in a row.

He knew he was hot, connecting on his fourth three of the term a couple of minutes later.

With under two minutes remaining, Froling got free out of a timeout and knocked down his fifth triple of the quarter and sixth of the half.

No matter what Kilsyth threw at him, Froling had an answer as he got to the rim and finished for two, followed by converting on his seventh shot from downtown, giving him 30 points at the half.

Dandenong rode on the back of their star’s flurry to lead 48-39 at the main intermission.

The third was tightly-contested with the two quality sides exchanging blows.

After the three-point barrage in the third, the floor opened up for the Rangers and they operated on the interior.

It led to 14 points in the paint and building the lead as big as 13 points before settling for a 72-61 three-quarter time advantage.

Dandenong continued to hold steady in the

Harry Froling’s monster performance led Dandenong to an elimination final victory over Kilsyth. (Ruffy Sports)

last with solid defence and efficient offence, but the Cobras had one more swing.

Hamish MacDonald did everything he could, scoring on three straight possessions to attempt to cut into the lead.

But it was too little too late, with the Rangers holding on for the 99-92 triumph.

Froling had his fingerprints all over the contest, finishing with 39 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and two steals on 14/18 shooting.

Palmer contributed 21 points and eight rebounds, shooting 60 percent from the floor.

MacDonald gave a mighty effort in defeat, posting 24 points, 10 boards, four steals and two blocks on ultra-efficient 11/13 shooting.

Dandenong will now await results to see who it faces in the next round of the finals.

Springvale Districts produced a huge upset as the Demons shocked reigning premier Cheltenham to win 14.10 (94) to 13.10 (88).

Springy had lost eight straight matches as they approached another meeting against the Rosellas - the last one ended in a 95-point loss earlier in the year.

But they were up for the fight and despite trailing by 11 points at three-quarter time, the Demons stormed home with a six-goal final quarter to win by a kick, holding on late.

Mason Russell had a day to remember for Springvale Districts, kicking five goals in a beston-ground performance.

Cheltenham has now lost three of its last four games and has dropped to fourth on the ladder.

Bentleigh turned a strong start into a comprehensive four-quarter performance as it defeated Dingley by 25 points, 16.8 (104) to 11.13 (79) in front of a home crowd at Bentleigh.

Willis Reidy kicked four goals in the first half for the Demons and eventually finished with six in a dominant performance.

With 24 scoring shots each, the Dingoes had their chances but it was the Demons who converted better at the other end.

Hampton Park won the second half against St Paul’s McKinnon, but the Redbacks had too much ground to make up as the Bulldogs won 15.12 (102) to 12.6 (78).

Ash Munday was at his best for St Paul’s McKinnon, as he helped to generate some good looks on goal for Matthew Kreymborg (four goals).

Makaio Haywood was Hampton Park’s best and continued his strong form with another two goals.

that point on as Jett Kearney (three goals) led the way up forward, guiding the black and white to a 10th win for the season.

Jesse Davies, Hayden Dwyer and Trent Papworth were among Narre Warren’s best, while Xavier Joyce booted three majors for Murrumbeena.

SOUTHERNDIVISION2RESULTS

Chelsea Heights 16.10 (106) def Hampton 4.4 (28), Mordialloc 20.23 (143) def Caulfield Bears 8.4 (52), Frankston Dolphins 20.14 (134) def Doveton Doves 7.7 (49), East Malvern 10.12 (72) def Keysborough 10.9 (69), Highett 26.21 (177) def East Brighton 4.7 (31).

Westerners push Saints aside in impressive style

By Justin Schwarze

Dandenong West has its eyes firmly set on the minor premiership following a thumping win over Narre South in round 16 of Southern Division 4.

The Westerners started strongly, booting the first four goals of the game to lead 29-6 at the first change.

But the second was an absolute massacre, with Dandenong West running riot at Strathaird Reserve, booting 10 goals straight to 1.1 in the term to blow out to a 76-point halftime advantage.

The visitors allowed the hosts just one more goal for the remainder of the game while piling on five more themselves, securing the imposing 19.14 (128) to 3.4 (22) result.

Coren Giliam slotted eight majors in victory, while Michael Dolan and Adam Boag managed a trio of goals each.

St John’s Old Collegians remained unbeaten with a convincing 13.11 (89) to 3.6 (24) win over Lyndale.

The JOCs kept the Pumas goalless in the first and fourth quarters and to just three majors for the game, brushing off inaccurate kicking on the road.

Harvey Emery was best on ground with a three-goal effort and he was supported well by three from Timothy Werner.

Lucas Smith kicked a pair for Lyndale.

Ashwood buried Doveton Eagles with a blistering last quarter to win 12.16 (88) to 5.12 (42) at Power Reserve.

In a low-scoring contest, the Magpies held a 13-point buffer at the last change before slotting seven goals to two in the final term to race away to the four points.

Andrew Kaldawi kicked three for Ashwood, while Joshua Johns put through two for the defeated Eagles.

Moorabbin capitalised on Clayton’s poor

South. (Rob Carew: 567654)

kicking and caused a major upset with a 9.9 (63) to 8.13 (61) triumph at Meade Reserve.

The Kangaroos led all day on the road, surviving a late scare as the hosts booted three of the last four majors in a last-ditch comeback effort.

Nicholas Lowrie willed his side to its second win for the year with three goals.

• SOUTHERN4

RESULTS R16: Narre South 3.4 (22) def by Dandenong West 19.14 (128), Lyndale 3.6 (24) def by St John’s Old Collegians 13.11 (89), Doveton Eagles 5.12 (42) def by Ashwood 12.16 (88), Clayton 8.13 (61) def by Moorabbin 9.9 (63).

LADDER: Dandenong West 58, St John’s Old Collegians 54, Ashwood 44, Narre South 34, Clayton 28, Lyndale 18, Doveton Eagles 12, Moorabbin 8.

FIXTURE R17: Dandenong West (1) v Ashwood (3), St John’s Old Collegians (2) v Doveton Eagles (7), Narre South (4) v Clayton (5), Lyndale (6) v Moorabbin (8).