Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
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HIPPY, hippy, shake A Burmese dance group, pictured, was part of celebrating one of Dandenong’s migrant success stories last Wednesday. The HIPPY (Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters) has helped mothers educate their pre-school children for more than 15 years. The Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre’s program hasn’t only brought children up to speed, but spurred mothers into educational careers. (Photo Gary Sissons: 577386) More on the story, turn to pages 2 and 15
Freeway relief Monash Freeway may be relieved of thousands of freight trucks, with works set to begin on a longawaited South East rail link to Port of Melbourne. Salta Properties has announced it will start construction of its Inland Freight Dandenong South Terminal in 2027. Two 700-metre rail tracks will be constructed within the Intermodal Terminal, linking to the existing 800-metre spur track and the Cranbourne line to the port. It is expected to remove 175,000 trucks of cargo off Monash Freeway each year.
Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne launched the State Government’s Freight on Track: The Victorian Rail Freight Plan 2026- 2036 on Wednesday 16 September at the Salta site, along with Deputy Premier Gabrielle Williams and industry representatives. “This is such a game changer for the south east of Melbourne, it will drive economic development and also to create jobs down here,” Horne said. Salta’s managing director, Sam Tarascio says the logistics of working on a project worth hun-
dreds of millions of dollars on 180 hectares of land was the challenging part. He sees no reason for further delay with the automated terminal – a vision of his father and Salta founding director Sam Tarascio Snr to cut road freight and congestion. Deputy Premier Williams says the project “has been a long time coming” and critical to the South East’s liveability. “Since I was first elected in 2014, we fought to have this project delivered to ensure that we could take thousands of trucks off local roads, in-
cluding off the Monash Freeway. “We also know that we have challenges of rising fuel prices for example, that getting freight onto rail is really important.” By 2050, the Port Rail Shuttle Network is predicted to move 30 per cent of Melbourne containers by rail to terminals in Dandenong South, Altona and Somerton. The Federal Government invested $18.3 million and the Victorian Government $9.7 million in the spur line project.
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A migration success story By Sahar Foladi The Dandenong-based Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre (SMRC) says it’s crucial to continue to support humanitarian programs for new arrivals as the Federal Government unveiled cuts and changes to migration rules. Communities are still digesting the long-anticipated changes announced by the Home Affairs Minister, Tony Burke, reducing Australia’s net overseas migration (NOM) to 245,000 this financial year, and 225,000 in 2027-28. Changes were announced to student visas and holiday visas, with priority to skilled visas in construction, healthcare, education and teachers. The new changes target backpackers and visa overstayers with compliance measures which will see 100 additional compliance officers, 250 new detention beds and plans to repurpose a former quarantine facility in Melbourne as a detention centre. “This is not the sort of operation that some people have seen on TV happening in other countries,” Burke said, contrasting Australia to the United States’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. Last week, SMRC’s HIPPY program celebrated 15 years of supporting mothers to educate their pre-school children. Many of the mums have since studied to become Primary School teachers, owners of childcare centres, and social workers.
SMRC’s acting CEO and senior market strategy, engagement and growth, Jacqui Pringle. (Gary Sissons: 577386) SMRC’s acting CEO and senior market strategy, engagement and growth, Jacqui Pringle says HIPPY debunks narratives that migrants and refugees are a burden on the system. “It creates fear, division, anxiety, unease, and
I think we work with communities who are doing their best to get by on a day-to-day basis, to build their lives here in Australia, and these narratives are really unhelpful. “I think the impact is possibly more on the
communities here in Dandenong. “Our experience is that migrants and refugees contribute significantly to the fabric of our society and strengthen the fabric of our society. “You’re seeing individuals, new to the country, dedicating themselves to programs that are giving an opportunity to their children for education, but in the process building their own education, opportunities for work, becoming teachers, childcare workers, community leaders and community workers.” As the November state election nears, Ms Pringle says they will “push policy that is about equity, about fairness, family unity, opportunity and shared opportunity”. “We continue to push from a policy level. It’s really about as much as we can, sharing the amazing stories of the contributors in this community who are from various backgrounds and how they are strengthening our community, making our community a better place. “So, housing systems, making sure that people are accessing inclusive programs so that we’re addressing social exclusion - these are issues that we are seeing. “We want to ensure our community’s voices are heard as part of those democratic processes and are informing the decisions and the policies that are being made.” - More on the HIPPY celebration, turn to page 15
65 years married after falling for a ‘bombshell’ By Sahar Foladi Many decades ago, a young Johonous broke up with his girlfriend at his first sight of a “bombshell” - with whom he has now celebrated a 65th wedding anniversary. Patricia Mueller, a young, beautiful 17-yearold girl of English and Dutch background, lived in Sri Lanka. The country was then under British rule, and called British Ceylon from 1796 until 1948. She was a neighbour of Johonous’ aunt, whom Johonous visited often. And on such one trip, his eyes fell on Patricia, and he knew he was going to marry her. “He used to go to his aunty’s mostly because he wanted to see me,” Patricia recounts. “We used to put on music, his cousins used to play guitar and sing, and Aloma (his cousin) would invite for me to come. It was two steps away. “All we did was go down the road to nice scenery, that would be our evening.” Patricia remembers a carnival that the young couple attended together, where she unwillingly entered a beauty competition and won. “A lady made me a beautiful blue shining dress. “I was slim, I wore it with high heels - I always loved wearing heels - I walked around the carnival and they told me I won the prize. “He was very jealous. Lots of his friends were there, then he decided yes, I have to get married soon.” They shared a couple of dances, fell in love and were engaged within two months, married within nine. Johonous says he stopped chasing girls after that. “There was this bombshell, and my cousins were after her. I told them get lost I will marry her,” Johonous shared. “I had to tell my old girlfriend I was sorry. Thank God she found another boy and she got married too.” Now 65 years later, the couple celebrated togetherness with their family - two daughters, Tarnia and Janet, son Dan, grandchildren, Jesse and Krystal and great-grandchild Sophie, 7. “Once you marry you can’t be like a bachelor,” Johonous says. “Lucky, I met a lady who is more of a friend than a stranger, we got along well. “You marry your best friend, you have the best life. We drink, plan together, we argue sometimes but no enmity.” Living in Greater Dandenong for the past 30 years, the couple, now 90 and 83 years of age, still enjoy each other’s presence. The couple have aged beautifully. Sharing their secret, Johonous says not to stress too much. “Some people take it to bed and worry. Worry kills you.
2 STAR JOURNAL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
Together, Johonous and Patricia had three children, Tarnia, Janet and Dan.(Supplied)
Newlyweds then-24-year-old Johonous and 17-year-old wife Patricia Mueller in 1961. “Things happen in life, you can’t help it.” On the other hand, for Patricia, it’s about internal satisfaction by lending a helping hand to people. This is reflected throughout her life when she cared for her husband’s parents and her own parents. As their parents aged and later passed on, it left the couple to hold onto each other tighter than ever. Johonous’ father was a centenarian, who was able to celebrate 75 years of marriage with his wife. Settlement in Australia The young couple worked to build their life and family together. With half of their family already in Australia, the pair were the last ones to migrate here in 1965. Johonous worked as an accountant, a paymaster in the public service in Melbourne CBD. In a world far from reality in today’s world, he remembers the top pay, inclusive of overtime, was $70 a week. A bottle of beer was 32 cents. “We had to think every day about what to do, to get a family, get them married, a job and make the best of it.
“Thank God the years went, and we went on with our lives,” Johonous says. Meanwhile, Patricia took up a job at Arnott’s Biscuits in Port Melbourne, with the support of her mother who lived with them and looked after the children. She progressed in her career eventually as a quality controller, working in different locations in Melbourne as life rolled on. Her middle child Tarnia, a resident of Greater Dandenong for 38 years, remembers her mother always cooking and feeding the family. Tarnia was only two when she arrived in Australia. “My parents were very Christian, went to church. Mum used to cook and have prayer meetings in the house. “My father would love to take us to the beach in Port Melbourne. Mum was always feeding us, she is very nurturing. “She’s a very generous, outgoing, kind and loving person.” Patricia now volunteers with Menzies Hall Club with maintenance, activities and selling raffle tickets while her husband enjoys gardening.
Patricia, now 83, with her great-grandchild, little Sophie.(Supplied)
Johonous, left, and Patricia, centre, with children Janet, Tarnia and Dan.
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NEWS
Inland freight hub on track By Sahar Foladi Monash Freeway may be relieved of thousands of freight trucks, with works set to begin on a long-awaited South East hub as part of a $58 million Port Rail Shuttle Network. Salta Properties will start construction of its Inland Freight Dandenong South Terminal in 2027, which would link to the Port of Melbourne. Two 700-metre rail tracks will be constructed within the Intermodal Terminal, linking to an additional 800-metre spur track reported to have been completed in 2022 by Star Journal. As part of the Port Rail Shuttle Network, the track will run via the Cranbourne line through Bayliss Road Dandenong South to the port. It is expected to remove 175,000 trucks of cargo off Monash Freeway each year. Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne launched the State Government’s Freight on Track: The Victorian Rail Freight Plan 2026- 2036 on Wednesday 16 September at the Salta site, along with Deputy Premier Gabrielle Williams and industry representatives. “This is such a game changer for the south east of Melbourne, it will drive economic development and also to create jobs down here. “I think it’s a lot of determination on Salta’s part and a lot of encouragement from government. “It reduces congestion, reduces carbon, and is much more effective and gives us a productivity uplift.” Jointly funded with $28 million from state and federal governments in partnership with the private sector, the news comes a decade late, but better late than never. Salta’s managing director, Sam Tarascio says the logistics of working on a project worth hundreds of millions of dollars on 180 hectares of land was the challenging part. He
Melissa Horne, Gabrielle Williams, Salta Properties founding director Sam Tarascio Snr and managing director Sam Tarascio.(Natalie Edge) sees no reason for further delay with the automated terminal. “We’re standing on a site here that’s over 180 hectares so there’s the amount of works that you don’t see - drainage in the ground, power in the ground - the roads that you can see, the earth moving. These are massive undertakings. “A lot of the uncertainty revolves around the initial stages of infrastructure, and you can see from the site now just how established it is now.
“So, we’re almost there now where we can actually put those tracks in the ground and we’re looking forward to doing that and hopefully getting first trains in the near term. “We know that the south east region of Melbourne is our largest destination for freight. It’s also a big origin of freight as well so we need to ensure we’ve got the scale here to enable the volume as the volume builds.” It’s an exciting turning chapter for Salta. Its founding director - Tarascio’s father Sam Tarascio Snr - has pushed the vision for 22 years
as an answer to road freight and congestion. Deputy Premier Williams says the project “has been a long time coming.” “Since I was first elected in 2014, we fought to have this project delivered to ensure that we could take thousands of trucks off local roads, including off the Monash Freeway. “We also know that we have challenges of rising fuel prices for example, that getting freight onto rail is really important. “So, there was a number of reasons, really, why this project was really critical to liveability in one of our fastest growing areas.” Addressing Victoria’s road conditions and potholes, she says environmental crises like floods, fires and heavily-loaded cargo trucks add “a lot of strain” on local roads. “That’s all the more reason why we need to modernise the way that we maintain our roads and ensure that it’s meeting the expectation of our community, so that people can get to where they need to go, not only faster, but safer.” By 2050, the Port Rail Shuttle Network is predicted to move 30 per cent of Melbourne containers by rail to terminals in Dandenong South, Altona and Somerton. The Federal Government invested $18.3 million and the Victorian Government $9.7 million in the spur line project. Since 2025, the network has moved containers by rail from Somerton to the Port of Melbourne – taking trucks off the road, cutting emissions and costs for businesses. Regional freight trains transport more than $2 billion worth of freight annually, delivering agricultural products, paper products and mineral sands. The Labor Government says it has invested almost $600 million in Victoria’s regional rail freight network, supporting heavier axle loads, increased speeds, improved reliability, new and extended passing loops and increased capacity on key rail freight routes
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Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | STAR JOURNAL 3
NEWS
$6 billion plea launched By Cam Lucadou-Wells Social and affordable housing has been in chronic shortage – but when are we actually going to “turn the dial”? The challenge was laid down to political parties by Greater South East Melbourne chair Simon McKeon on the eve of November’s state election. McKeon leads GSEM - an alliance of eight South East councils – who along with community housing providers and homelessness services launched an urgent pitch for $6 billion for 19,000 social housing dwellings in the next decade. This will be just enough to house the 19,000 Victorian families with children currently waiting for public or community housing. But it’s just a fraction of the 58,000-plus households in total on the waitlist. “Across our region, councils and communities are grappling with a real and visible increase in homelessness and rough sleeping,” McKeon said on 17 September. “Safe and affordable housing is the foundation for strong and connected communities. “When government invests in housing, the benefits are felt across the entire community. It improves outcomes for vulnerable people, reduces pressure on services and helps ensure our growing region remains liveable for everyone.” It was time to solve the issue, rather than perpetuate it, he said. An extra 80,000 social housing homes over the next decade were needed to meet the expected total need, Community Housing Industry Association Victoria chief executive Sarah Toohey. “But we have to start somewhere,” she says. The campaign is placing a focus on families with children 14 and under, who on average have moved from private rental to private rental six times. The upheaval displaces children from friends, sports clubs, schools and community connections, Toohey says. Social housing was the most direct way to ease cost-of-living pressures and allow families to invest in a better life. “It’s an investment in our young people and the future of our state,” she said. Rent was the biggest cost for households, with many on low wages devoting more than 50 per cent of their income to keeping a roof above their heads. Nearly 2500 community housing homes had been built in the past year. But it wasn’t keeping up with the burgeoning waiting list that’s driven by economic factors such as inflation, she says. Greater Dandenong mayor Sophie Tan says
Community Housing IndustryAssociation Victoria CEO Sarah Toohey and Greater South East Melbourne chair Simon McKeon. (Cam Lucadou-Wells: 579519) the need for social and affordable housing in Greater Dandenong is “significant and well documented”. The council area has the highest rate and number of homelessness in the state. She says the council is advocating through the Regional Local Government Homelessness and Social Housing Charter for “stronger” action and investment from the state and federal governments. This includes long-term social housing growth targets that increase social housing as a
proportion of overall housing stock. The council is also advocating for streamlined planning and approval processes, and regulatory reforms to support innovative housing construction - including modular and prefabricated housing. It also argues for the removal of “disincentives” such as Windfall Gains Tax on council land rezoned for social and affordable housing purposes. Cr Tan also called for increased investment in homelessness prevention, crisis accommoda-
tion and supportive housing pathways. Launch Housing acting CEO Dr. Andrew Hollows says the service is partnering with the State Government on two social housing projects due for completion in 2027, delivering “150 brand new homes to Victorians who need them most”. “At Launch Housing we know that ultimately, the solution to homelessness is more social and affordable housing. “When people have access to a safe, affordable, and appropriate home and the support to keep it, they thrive.”
Community Housing IndustryAssociation Victoria CEO Sarah Toohey and Greater South East Melbourne chair Simon McKeon. (Cam Lucadou-Wells: 579519)
South East housing crisis - the numbers Community Housing IndustryAssociation Victoria CEO Sarah Toohey. (Cam Lucadou-Wells: 579519)
‘Fear of the unknown’ - social housing’s stigma By Cam Lucadou-Wells Social housing projects often attract local opposition that inevitably falls away, says community housing advocate Sarah Toohey. “It’s more about the fear of the unknown than the reality of what social housing is. “What we see is that there’s often large opposition to the development. But once that devel-
opment is built, people forget that it is there.” The “old-era” social housing – such as public housing towers and broad-acre estates – weren’t built anymore, says Toohey – who is CEO of Community Housing Industry Association Victoria. “You wouldn’t even know the social housing was in your street.” Community housing – or social housing – offers genuinely affordable accommodation at 30
4 STAR JOURNAL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
per cent of the household income. She says there’s a dire shortage of affordable private rentals, with many on the minimum wage spending 50-60 per cent of their incomes on rent, she says. “It’s housing people who are already living in the community. They might be either sleeping on a couch or in their car. We don’t know what’s going on in people’s lives.”
■ South East Melbourne recorded the second highest number of homeless clients in Australia in 2023-‘24, with 9,980 people seeking support, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. ■ The region also recorded the second-highest number of people at risk of homelessness and the third-highest number of people experiencing homelessness. ■ At the 2021 Census there were 146,000 Victorian households in need of housing assistance, including people experiencing homelessness, living in overcrowded homes or paying rents they could not afford. ■ Yet Victoria has the lowest proportion of social housing stock in Australia – just 3 per cent.
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NEWS
Housing questions 1. Do you agree that there needs to be a significant increase in social housing in Greater Dandenong? Matthew Kirwan (Greens): Greater Dandenong has the highest number of people experiencing homelessness in Victoria more than 2300 at the last Census, and when this year’s census comes out, likely more. While we also need more emergency and transitional housing, governments need to build more social housing, particularly public housing, to end the homelessness crisis. Phillip Pease (Liberal): We need to deliver more housing for all Victorians. Under this Government, we have only seen a net increase in public housing stock of only 36 over the past decade. We are also seeing public housing being left vacant because of poor maintenance. We first need to look at getting our existing stock back online. Gabrielle Williams (Dandenong MP, Labor): More Victorians need a place to call home, and the Carroll Labor Government has invested record amounts towards social housing in Greater Dandenong. - One Nation was also contacted for comment
2. What are the main impediments to affordable housing supply? What initiatives do you propose to increase affordable housing
stocks, including social housing, in Greater Dandenong? Matthew Kirwan (Greens): The housing market is broken because for too long, houses have been treated as an investment vehicle, not a place to live. We can’t rely on the private market to deliver affordable housing because developers prioritise margins over affordability. Instead we need Government to once again create public housing in large amounts. We need to stop Labor’s sell-off of public housing and instead double the number of public homes. To help fund that, introduce an ultra-wealth tax for property investors who own more than $5 million in residential investment properties. In the meantime, we need to cap rent rises, crack down on dodgy agents and landlords, and make renting secure and fair. Phillip Pease (Liberal): Being able to deliver more social housing has the same problems as building homes here in Victoria. Already 43 per cent of building a home here in Victoria is made up of Government taxes and regulation. To be able to deliver more housing across Victoria this needs to change. Under Jess Wilson, a Liberal Nationals government will introduce no new taxes and we will exempt first home buyers from Stamp Duty up to $1 million and deliver Land Tax relief. Making it
Greens South East Metropolitan lead candidate Matthew Kirwan. (Supplied) Dandenong MP and Deputy Premier Gabrielle Williams. (Supplied) easier for all Victorians to have access to a home. Gabrielle Williams (Dandenong MP, Labor): Across Greater Dandenong alone, the Victorian Government has invested more than $180 million into social housing programs to build 365 new social and affordable homes, with 102 of these already completed. The Government is working closely with community housing organisations, local government and other community agencies to unlock land and develop partnerships to deliver more and better homes for Victorians, including in Greater Dandenong. - One Nation was also contacted for comment
Phillip Pease, Liberal South Eastern Metropolitan Region candidate. (Supplied)
Local homelessness stats According to the 2021 Census: • Greater Dandenong had 2,366 people experiencing homelessness, representing 1.5 per cent of the municipality’s population, the highest number and proportion in Victoria. • Homelessness increased by 56 per cent over the previous decade. • Greater Dandenong recorded the highest rate of overcrowded dwellings in metropolitan Melbourne,
with 1.3 per cent of homes considered overcrowded. • About 3 per cent of dwellings housed seven or more people, compared with the Victorian average of 1 per cent. • Greater Dandenong also has the fourth-highest number of rooming houses in metropolitan Melbourne. - 95 people actively experiencing homelessness on the Greater Dandenong By Name List, as of Au-
gust 2026. - More than 5,100 households seeking housing assistance through the Victorian Housing Register, as of June 2026: • 2,629 priority applicants seeking social housing in the Dandenong area, as of June 2026 • 2,492 additional applicants on the Register of Interest. (City of Greater Dandenong / Homes Victoria)
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Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | STAR JOURNAL 5
NEWS
Attempted robbery charges Four youths have been charged after a series of attempted robberies involving an alleged stolen car in Greater Dandenong, police say. Greater Dandenong Crime Investigation Unit detectives allege three offenders attended a business on Heatherton Road in Dandenong on Wednesday 16 September. Two of them brandished a knife and demanded cash before fleeing in a stolen Mitsubishi Outlander about 11.50am, according to police. Early on 17 September, six people attended a service station on Cheltenham Road in Keysborough before allegedly stealing items from the
store about 2am. They were removed from the premises before they allegedly attempted to force entry again multiple times but were unsuccessful, police say. About 10 minutes later, police officers observed the allegedly stolen Outlander driving erratically in Noble Park North before stopping at a service station on Police Road in Mulgrave. Police were immediately on scene, disturbed the group and took two into custody. Four other people fled in the allegedly stolen vehicle, which crashed into a pole near Police
LOOKING BACK
and Smith roads in Springvale. Officers searched the area and located two more youths. who were taken into custody. A 14-year-old boy from the Greater Dandenong area was charged with seven counts of aggravated burglary. A 12-year-old girl from the Greater Dandenong area was charged with two counts of aggravated burglary. They were to face a children’s court on 17 September. An 18-year-old Narre Warren man was
charged with two counts of aggravated burglary. He was to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 17 September. An 18-year-old Springvale woman was charged with theft and car theft. She was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 24 February. Police allege the vehicle was stolen from a gym in Springvale on 14 September. The investigation is ongoing. Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Compiled by Dandenong and District Historical Society
100 years ago 16 September 1926 Increased fares
necting Frankston with Ringwood. Dual Eastlink bridges are in place over Princes Highway, Railway Parade and Cheltenham Road, while preparations for the Heatherton Road overpass continue. What looks from a helicopter like a giant Lego dream will be ready in just over two years.
From yesterday, increased fares on the Dandenong – Melbourne line came into operation and are as follows: Dandenong to Melbourne: First-class single 1 pound eleven shillings and a halfpenny; return 2 pound eleven shillings and a halfpenny. Second-class single 1 pound four shillings and a halfpenny; return 2 pound three shillings and a halfpenny.
5 years ago 21 September 2021 Trading places: Aldi site leased to Market
50 years ago 20 September 1976 Redlegs miss the flag Dandenong suffered a humiliating defeat by Port Melbourne in the VFA First Division Grand Final at the Junction Oval yesterday. The Redlegs were behind all day before finally going down 19.18 (132) to 10.15 (75). Port was faster, apparently fitter and had more purpose in their play. Little could be said in favour of Dandenong’s effort and the huge crowd of 32,137 saw a one-sided affair. There was only one bright spot for Dandenong - the presentation to centreman Danny Hibbert of his J. J. Liston Trophy for the best and fairest V.F.A. player for 1976.
Council proposed a new 10-year lease arrangement with Dandenong Market, prior to Aldi vacating in October 2021. (Gary Sissons: 242527)
20 years ago 18 September 2006 Linking up a dream Trucks are carting earth, cranes lifting beams and machines laying asphalt along the red strip
of earth that is becoming the aorta of the congested eastern suburbs. Just over two years from its promised opening date, Eastlink is taking shape. Motorists are crossing the ramps and bridges that will span the freeway con-
A former Aldi supermarket site is set to be leased to Dandenong Market for a peppercorn rate as part of a Greater Dandenong proposal. The councillors agreed at their meeting to advertise a proposed 10-year lease to the council-owned subsidiary Dandenong Market Pty Ltd for a $1 annual fee. Income from the site would be shared 50-50 by the council and Dandenong Market Pty Ltd, reflecting a revised profit-sharing agreement struck in August. Under the agreement, the Market keeps “retained earnings” for capital improvements, equipment and repairs at Dandenong Market expected to be up to $500,000.
INTERFAITH
Experiences in the Interfaith Network by Rienzie Machado, Catholic faith and Interfaith Network member Today I reflect on my experiences of my involvement in the Inter Faith Network (IFN) in Dandenong. In March this year, His Eminence Cardinal Myklova Bychok addressed the IFN on Harmony Day. Here he referred to the successful dialogue with the Interfaith communities over the past 30 years here. This was not an overnight success but with the dedication of many dedicated founding members, it has resulted in a vibrant network to live side by side with many communities in Greater Dandenong.
MESSAGE OF
HOPE Further I was spurred to write about what I witnessed at the Interfaith Network of the City of Greater Dandenong Signing of the 38th Common Statement. This was akin to the authentication that we have become so familiar with online purchasing and/or linking our bank accounts. With this signing, we reinforced the values
of the statement and recommitted ourselves to these beliefs. I was humbled to lead a small group in discussing the Common Statement. The words ‘welcoming’, ‘respect’, ‘desire to help in our hearts’, ‘walk as one family’ reverberated through the room. While our Dandenong community has changed with more nationalities, I cannot help being caught up with the advent of the internet and social media in my life. We want private time walking around the neighbourhood, or at the gym listening to podcasts, music or phone chats. We used to speak a few words to our fellow neighbours that we once took to be the norm.
So we are an ever-changing community that we need to ask ourselves – do we have the desire to promote respect for one another? Maybe it is there but has lost priority! Despite all the chaos and loss of overseas lives in war-torn countries, I share the belief of hope. With many others, I have been a tour guide for the IFN ‘Places of Worship tours’. I am very hopeful that the next generations will accept the values of other faiths, respect and live in better harmony. Go gently, have a good day. - Enquiries regarding the Interfaith Network, City of Greater Dandenong: administration@interfaithnetwork.org.au Visit - https://interfaithnetwork.org.au
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Discover Ryman’s retirement villages in Melbourne and Ocean Grove, and experience thriving communities in sought-after locations across the city. From independent living to future care options, enjoy beautifully designed homes, premium amenities and a lifestyle created around you. Nine villages in Melbourne’s most connected and sought-after suburbs.
Villa 8M
2
$749,000
97m2
1.5
Set within beautifully maintained village grounds, this light-filled villa blends comfort, convenience and peaceful rural living. Enjoy sun-filled open-plan spaces, two bedrooms, private patio and garden, internal-access garage, generous storage, heated bathroom features and access to village walking paths and amenities.
Enjoy cafés, cinemas, pools and beautifully landscaped garden spaces.
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Live independently with the confidence of support if required.
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IA 304
2
1.5
87m2
Charming garden views
$649,000
IA 230
2
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$749,000
81m2
Filled with natural light, this north-facing two-bedroom apartment offers open-plan living, garden views and a private balcony. Beautifully updated, it combines comfort and privacy with easy access to village amenities, shopping and parklands.
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Weary Dunlop Village
Nellie Melba Village
242 Jells Road, Wheelers Hill
2 Collegium Avenue, Wheelers Hill
Call Lina 0416 138 461
Call Morag 0414 458 149
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Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | STAR JOURNAL 7
OPINION
We must reach every woman By Dalal Smiley, chief executive of Wellsprings for Women This week, Australia’s Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commissioner, Micaela Cronin, tabled her latest report to Parliament with a sobering message: despite years of reform and investment, Australia is still not achieving the scale of change needed to end violence against women and children. Reports of sexual violence have increased by 64 per cent over the past 15 years and reached their highest level in 33 years in 2024. The report concludes that we must invest more strongly in prevention, early intervention and community-based responses if we are to change the trajectory. Yet too often, when we discuss family violence and violence against women, we overlook the unique barriers faced by migrant and refugee women. Women who have arrived in Australia seeking safety and opportunity can face significant challenges when experiencing violence. Language barriers, social isolation, visa uncertainty, financial dependence, limited transport options and a lack of familiarity with Australian systems can all make it harder to seek help. For some women, the fear of community stigma or losing family support can be as powerful as the violence itself. The consequences are profound. Commissioner Cronin’s report identifies two areas where Australians continue to experience unacceptable harm: sexual violence and interactions with family law and justice systems. The report also emphasises that governments must intervene earlier, long before families reach crisis point. This is where local organisations matter. For more than three decades, Wellsprings for Women has worked alongside women in Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia to build economic independence, confidence, social connection and community participation.
Wellsprings for Women chief executive Dr Dalal Smiley. (Supplied) While these may not always be labelled as family violence initiatives, they are among the most effective protective factors against violence. In the last five years, the specialist family violence service at Wellsprings supported over 1000 women and children from migrant and refugee backgrounds experiencing family violence. This means that the trajectory of harm faced by 1000 women and their children was interrupted, and their journey of recovery could start. Similarly Wellsprings’ work on gender equality education and prevention of violence against women since 2018 engaged over 7400 people directly, through 73 projects. The feedback indicates that 86 per cent of participants increased their comfort and trust in discussing healthy and safe marriages. Further, 76 per cent of primary school girls in our literacy circles improved understanding of gender equality, and 81 per cent of the audience in our Story is Connection performance improved their awareness and understanding of
family violence. Gender equality is embedded in all our English literacy and digital literacy classes. Primary prevention is a long-term commitment that requires persistence, adaptability and involvement of the communities the programs are intended for. Early this year, we launched our co-designed resources on Tech-Facilitated Abuse (TFA), a project that engaged women with lived experience in designing the resources and education module. Wellsprings’ service model of offering an integrated suite of services means that a woman would learn English, gain employment skills, understand her rights, develop social networks and become financially independent. She is then better equipped to recognise abuse, seek support and make decisions about her future and her children’s safety. These are exactly the kinds of early intervention strategies that the National Commissioner is
calling for. Importantly, Commissioner Cronin’s report highlights the need to listen to lived experience and strengthen community-led responses. This is particularly critical for multicultural communities. Solutions designed without migrant and refugee women at the table risk overlooking the realities they face. The conversation about ending violence against women often focuses on crisis responses, courts, police and emergency accommodation. These services are essential and must remain properly funded. But we will never solve this problem through crisis intervention alone. If we are serious about prevention, we must invest in the organisations that engage women before they reach crisis. Community-based multicultural women’s organisations are not an optional extra. They are part of the solution. At a time when governments at both state and federal levels are considering how to implement the next phase of family violence reform, the message from the National Commissioner is clear: prevention, early intervention and community connection must be strengthened. For communities such as Greater Dandenong, Casey and Cardinia, that means sustained and increased investment in culturally responsive organisations that have earned the trust of local women and families. Ending violence against women cannot be achieved from Canberra or Spring Street alone. It will be achieved in neighbourhood houses, community centres, classrooms, employment programs, leadership groups and women’s networks. It will be achieved when every woman, regardless of where she was born or what language she speaks, can access support, opportunity and safety. The question is not whether we can afford to invest in prevention. The question is whether we can afford not to.
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8 STAR JOURNAL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
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NEWS
Social housing mix unclear By Cam Lucadou-Wells A planning submission fails to reveal how much social and affordable housing will be delivered as part of an inclusionary housing project in Noble Park. Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny is currently assessing the MET Communities Pty Ltd application for the 2.3-hectare site at 30-40 Athol Road – the former Southvale Primary School site. The project by Metricon-backed developer MET Communities Pty Ltd, which is being fasttracked as part of the State Government’s Inclusionary Housing Pilot program, proposes a medium-density estate of 95 townhouses. Most are two-storey: 15 dwellings with four bedrooms, 50 with three bedrooms and 27 with two bedrooms, according to the proponent’s town planning report. There will also be three singlestorey dwellings (two bedrooms each). “Its diverse mix of dwellings provides social, affordable and market options, creating housing choice at varying densities,” the report states - without specifying the amounts of social and affordable housing. Star Journal was provided plans or illustrations from the Department of Transport and Planning last week. The documents haven’t been published on a public website. There are no third-party rights for the public to make submissions or to appeal the Minister’s decision. As part of the fast-track process, Greater Dandenong Council is sidelined to a consulting role. The council is currently considering a permit application for 95 subdivisions on the site. Greater Dandenong mayor Sophie Tan said the mix of social, affordable and private housing will
An illustration of the estate at the former Southvale Primary School site. (Department of Transport and Planning) be determined through the Planning Minister’s assessment process and associated permit conditions. “Increasing social and affordable housing through major developments is an important component of addressing this need. “However, the appropriate proportion of social housing for any development is ultimately a matter for the relevant planning authority and government policy settings.” At a 2023 Government Land Standing Advisory Committee hearing, the council stated the unspecified number of social housing homes at Athol Road was “unacceptable”. “This uncertainty is unacceptable in light of the identified need for social and affordable housing within the Greater Dandenong community and
the purposes of the inclusionary housing pilot project. “Without this clearly specified in the planning control, Council is concerned that the land could be sold off and developed for market housing.” Anthony Scarpaci, a planner representing MET Communities, told the hearing the unspecified social and community housing numbers were a “deliberate design feature” of the IHP. He argued that publicly mandating a percentage of community housing would risk identifying vulnerable residents – though he conceded it was not a high risk. Other mechanisms, such as the Greater Dandenong Planning Scheme, could mandate social housing levels, Mr Scarpaci said.
Cr Tan told Star Journal that the council supported initiatives such as the Dandelion 70-home project in central Dandenong in February. Seventy-five per cent of those homes would be allocated to priority-access applicants on the Victorian Housing Register. “We support initiatives like this, that increase the delivery of genuinely affordable housing and social housing, particularly for very low and lowincome households who face the greatest barriers to accessing housing.” According to a tree protection plan, about 67 of the Athol Road site’s 133 canopy trees will be retained, including three mature spotted gums of ‘high value’. Several ‘high-value’ trees will be chopped down – a 12-metre Gippsland manna gum, a 13-metre coastal banksia, a 20-metre lemon-scented gum, a 16-metre narrow-leaved black peppermint, a 14-metre river red gum, a 20-metre grey she-oak and an 11-metre tuart. About 15 other trees of lower value but more than 10 metres tall will also be removed. With added tree plantings, total canopy coverage was expected to reach 19.5 per cent – just below the 20 per cent requirement. Many of the retained trees will be in two open space areas, including about 1070 square metres of parkland with nature play areas, seats and lawns along Athol Road. A smaller, informal private open space reserve on the Jeffrey Avenue side will also retain several trees. Car parking exceeds the minimum standard of 114 spaces. The proposal sets aside 160 car spaces in home garages and 19 visitor parking spaces. The Department of Transport and Planning was contacted for comment.
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Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | STAR JOURNAL 9
OPINION
No English, no payment? By Dr Jamel Kaur Singh and Dya Singh For the past few weeks, I have been filling in teaching English to adults while their regular teacher undergoes medical treatment. I expected to teach vocabulary, pronunciation and conversation. I did not expect the experience to fundamentally challenge the way I think about integration, parenting, welfare and government responsibility. One morning we practised, through role play, making a doctor’s appointment. Nothing complicated. Four questions: What is your name? What is your date of birth? What is your address? What is your phone number? Most students struggled to answer them, or at least understand what I was asking and be able to answer me in a way I could understand. That stopped me in my tracks. Not because they were unintelligent. Not because they did not want to learn. They did. What baffled me was discovering that some had lived in Australia for five, 10, even 20 years! I started asking questions. The answers were complicated. Some had arrived and settled immediately into communities where almost everyone around them spoke their first language. Shopping, friendships, family life and social networks could function without any English. Then I heard something more confronting. I was told some women had spent years giving birth to, raising four, five or six children and were only now getting the opportunity - or perhaps finally felt allowed to come out and learn English. That is where this becomes bigger than language. Because language is independence. If you cannot confidently communicate in English in Australia, how easily can you communicate privately with your child’s teacher, read the school newsletter, understand an excursion form, make a medical appointment, question a bill,
navigate Centrelink, understand your finances, explain something to police or ask for help without another person speaking for you? And here is where we are going to say something that some people will dislike. If you receive Parenting Payment in Australia, we believe there should be a minimum functional English literacy and numeracy standard attached to it. Not perfect English. Not university English. Not Shakespeare. Functional English. Australia already accepts the principle that welfare can come with responsibilities. Single Parenting Payment recipients generally face mutual obligation requirements once their youngest child turns six, and failure to meet agreed requirements can have consequences. We also already fund free English tuition through the Adult Migrant English Program, including flexible study options and free childcare for eligible people attending face-to-face classes. The program assists around 70,000 eligible migrants and humanitarian entrants each year, and AMEP study can already count towards some Centrelink mutual obligations. So, taxpayers are already paying for these services, for example adult English classes and childcare. Why are we not connecting the two? This proposal would be straightforward. Anyone applying for Parenting Payment who does not meet a basic functional English and numeracy benchmark would enter a compulsory supported pathway. Give them perhaps two years. Provide the classes. Provide childcare. Provide online learning. Recognise disability, genuine learning difficulties, trauma and exceptional circumstances. But make participation compulsory and make reaching a reasonable standard an expectation of continuing to receive the payment. For new applicants, assessment could occur when they enter the system. For existing recipients with very low English proficiency, introduce the requirement gradual-
ly and give them the support and time needed to reach the benchmark. And yes, eventually there should be consequences for someone who is capable, has been given the teaching, childcare, time and opportunity, but simply refuses to participate. That is the part we seem increasingly frightened to say. Rights come with responsibilities. A social safety net should catch people when they need help. It should not become a system that asks absolutely nothing in return when the very capability being developed would benefit the parent, the child and society. And before somebody labels this anti-migrant, let me save you the trouble. We are emphatically pro-multicultural Australia. Keep your culture. Speak your mother tongue. Teach your children another language. Celebrate your festivals. Practise your faith. Cook the food your grandmother taught you to cook. Tell your stories. Our diversity is one of Australia’s great strengths. But multiculturalism should never mean parallel lives in which people can spend decades in Australia without being able to independently participate in mainstream Australian society. That is not integration. And we are increasingly convinced that lowering expectations in the name of inclusion is not kindness. Sometimes it is abandonment. Our Australian Curriculum is taught in English. Our health system operates predominantly in
English. Our courts, police, government agencies, workplaces and civic institutions operate in English. Anyone choosing to build a permanent life here knows this. Why are we paying millions of taxpayer dollars in interpreter services? Services Australia defines the principal carer as the person with the greatest responsibility for a child’s day-to-day care, welfare and development. If government is paying someone on the basis that they are undertaking that responsibility, surely government can also ask whether that person has the basic English fluency to engage with the institutions responsible for that child’s health, safety and education. Teachers across Casey have repeatedly spoken to me about the challenge of parent engagement. Schools cannot do everything. Teachers should not have to educate children while simultaneously carrying the entire burden of family communication. And children should not routinely become translators between their parents and the adult world. Think about the power imbalance that can create. A teenager brings home a detention notice and tells Mum it is a permission slip. A partner controls every interaction with Centrelink because the other cannot understand the correspondence. A woman experiencing family violence needs her husband or child to translate conversations with institutions. A parent signs something they do not understand. A teacher is trying desperately to explain that a child is falling behind, but meaningful communication cannot happen without organising an interpreter. English does not solve family violence. It does not solve educational disadvantage. It does not magically create good parenting. But independence matters. Communication matters. And language gives people power.
Remove barriers, don’t create fear By Dr Rhonda Garad, City of Greater Dandenong councillor I wanted to raise some of my concerns about the Truth Be Told column’s proposal to make Parenting Payment conditional on achieving a minimum level of English and numeracy. I completely agree that English can be an important source of independence and that we should be doing everything we can to support people to learn it. Where I have concerns is the assumption running through the article that people who have lived here for many years have had broadly the same agency and opportunity to learn English but have simply failed to do so. I don’t think that is the reality. People arrive with very different circumstances and resources. Some have had limited or no formal education in their country of origin and may be starting from a very different literacy base. Others are dealing with much greater burdens of poverty, insecure housing, caring responsibilities, trauma or isolation. Some have little family or social support to enable them to attend classes, particularly women with several young children. Having a class available doesn’t necessarily mean someone has the practical capacity to get there, participate regularly or learn at the same pace as someone with a strong educational background and a supportive network. That is why I worry that attaching welfare to a language test could create stigma, anxiety and insecurity among already struggling families. A program intended to encourage English learning could become something people fear because their family’s financial security is at stake. I also wondered about something in the article itself. If these people weren’t interested in learning English, why were they in the English class in the first place? Their presence seems to demonstrate a willingness to learn. The question should perhaps be less “Why haven’t they learned English after 10 or 20 years?” and more “What barriers prevented them from
Greater Dandenong councillor Rhonda Garad. (Gary Sissons: 572191) having the opportunity to learn earlier?” I think there is an important distinction between encouraging and supporting people to learn English and making their financial security conditional on reaching a prescribed standard. We should be removing barriers—providing accessible classes, childcare, transport and ap-
10 STAR JOURNAL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
propriate support—rather than creating another source of anxiety. And I worry about the stigma this could create around migrant parents receiving welfare. Limited English doesn’t mean someone isn’t an engaged parent, doesn’t care about their children’s education or isn’t contributing to
their community. English should absolutely be a pathway to greater independence and empowerment. But we need to recognise that people don’t all start from the same place, and equal opportunity isn’t achieved simply by offering everyone the same class.
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GRAND FINALISTS 2026
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Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | STAR JOURNAL 11
FREMANTLE DOCKERS - AFL
12 STAR JOURNAL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
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12903238-CV39-26
AFL GRAND FINALISTS 2026
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Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | STAR JOURNAL 13
BRISBANE LIONS - AFL GR
14 STAR JOURNAL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
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NEWS
Happy for HIPPY support By Sahar Foladi Southern Migrant and Refugee Centre celebrated 15 years of its crucial HIPPY program for new arrivals as the Federal Government unveiled fresh migration cuts. HIPPY (Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters) is an evidence-based, internationally recognised at-home program that provides free support to parents to be their child’s first teacher before they start school. Over two years, the play-based program sets up children for a smooth transition to school, placing them well ahead of basic teachings. The reunion-style celebration on Wednesday 16 September at the SMRC brought together past and present families, HIPPY Tutors and children to reflect on the program’s impact over a decade and a half. In a 20-minute video, 16 parents and children gave their accounts of their experiences, their journey to Australia and how HIPPY guided them towards their future. Staff members, like the senior coordinator Tatjana Krneta, were also celebrated. Ms Krneta has seen firsthand that parents can build new pathways for themselves through the program, many of whom becoming HIPPY tutors themselves. “Many begin their journey with little or no previous work experience, often unsure of what they can achieve, uncertain about their own abilities. “Through HIPPY, they discover strengths they didn’t know they had, build confidence, and find their voice in the community. “What starts as a role supporting other fami-
Members of a Burmese dance group at the event. lies often becomes a pathway to employment, further education, and leadership opportunities. “Their success reminds us that when we invest in families, we are planting seeds that continue to grow for generations.” Yushita was part of the program along with her daughter Tanya. Through the program, she discovered her passion for community services. She continued to study a diploma of community services and has almost completed her Bach-
elor of Social Work to become a social worker. It’s a profession much needed as demand surges in community services, family support and mental health sectors. Beenish was also part of HIPPY, which led her to work as an inclusion support worker in schools. She is currently studying her Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood, to become a primary school educator as Victoria struggles with teacher shortages.
Negar became a HIPPY tutor within four months of her arrival in Australia. She later became a Persian language teacher at a P–12 school in Narre Warren and today operates two childcare centres as a family business. Greater Dandenong councillors Rhonda Garad, Bob Milkovic and Lana Formoso attended the event on behalf of mayor Sophie Tan. The program has been operating in Greater Dandenong since 2011, for culturally and linguistically diverse parents and their children aged 3 to 4. SMRC CEO Jim Mullan said the 15-year success of HIPPY in Greater Dandenong shows what is possible when communities, service providers and government make a long-term commitment to families. “One of HIPPY’s greatest strengths is that it is deeply connected to the community it serves. “Families are not simply participants in the program, they help shape it, strengthen it and carry its impact forward. “This anniversary is an opportunity to recognise their contribution and the strong community connections that have grown around the program.” HIPPY has now supported close to 30,000 families across more than 25 years in Australia, and operates at 100 sites nationally, including 50 with a focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. HIPPY is funded through the Australian Government Department of Social Services. The Brotherhood of St. Laurence holds the licence to operate HIPPY in Australia, and SMRC is delivering the program in Greater Dandenong.
FOCUS ON … SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES
Roll up, roll up! One of Australia’s longest-running travelling circuses is heading to Westfield Fountain Gate, Narre Warren, bringing the magic, excitement and spectacle of the Big Top to Melbourne’s south-east these September school holidays. After more than five decades entertaining audiences across the country, Circus Royale is back under its famous name with an action-packed live production featuring breathtaking circus acts, daring performers, incredible displays of balance and skill, plenty of laughs and edge-ofyour-seat entertainment for the whole family. And for those who like their circus with an extra dose of adrenaline, prepare for the heartstopping Globe of Death – a spectacular crowd favourite that has to be seen to be believed! Circus Royale has been entertaining Australian families since 1971, and today the magic of live circus remains just as special. From children experiencing their very first circus to parents and grandparents who remember the thrill of visiting Circus Royale when they were young, it’s an experience designed to bring generations together. There’s nothing quite like stepping inside a genuine travelling Big Top, watching the lights come up and seeing incredible performers take to the ring right in front of you. It’s the energy, skill, comedy, thrills and atmosphere of live circus at its best – and an experience the whole family can enjoy together. The Circus Royale Big Top opens at Westfield Fountain Gate on Friday, 18 September, just in time for the Victorian school holidays, with performances continuing until Sunday, 11 October 2026. With shows throughout the holiday period, Circus Royale is the perfect family day or night out and a chance to put down the screens, step inside the Big Top and create some unforgettable memories together. CIRCUS ROYALE – NARRE WARREN Opening: Friday, 18 September 2026 Season: 18 September – 11 October 2026 Location: Westfield Fountain Gate, Brechin Drive, Narre Warren Tickets ON SALE NOW! Advance bookings are recommended, par-
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ticularly for weekend and school holiday performances. Tickets & information: Circus Royale Facebook: Circus Royale on Facebook Instagram: Circus Royale on Instagram
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Top magic is coming
Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | STAR JOURNAL 15
NEWS
Juniors ‘check-mate’ shoppers Shoppers proved to be just pawns in a Dandenong/Casey Chess Club gambit at Waverley Gardens shopping centre last Saturday (12 September). For three hours, shoppers were drawn to a ‘Beat Me’ sign laying down a free challenge: beat one of the club’s top players and win $100. But each of the rivals went away empty-handed, each toppled by the likes of 25-year-old club president and champion Regan Cowley, top female Jannifer Cheas and leading juniors. The chess club is looking to establish a junior chess club (ages 6-17) in Endeavour Hills on Saturday mornings. Two-hour sessions with professional coaches and matches with other juniors. Also adults are welcome for its senior club. – Enquiries: Paul, 0451 215 967
Jannifer Cheas, the Dandenong/Casey Chess Club’s top female player, went through the day undefeated. (Dandenong Chess Club)
Shoppers tried three hours to topple club champion Regan Crowley. (Dandenong Chess Club)
Crime policies ‘not working’ By Cam Lucadou-Wells After 26 years of campaigning, victims-of-crime advocate Janine Greening says ‘tough on crime’ pledges by political parties don’t get to the root of the problem. Ahead of the November state election, the Casey resident and founder of Forget Me Not Foundation says she’s still fighting for justice reform. She was cast in the public sphere 26 years ago when her 73-year-old mother was viciously raped and killed by two teenage boys at home. They have since been released from custody. Ms Greening says she doesn’t “hate” the perpetrators - “I don’t want them to have that power over me”. But to this day, she is not allowed to name the now-adult perpetrators of the heinous crime. Under legacy suppression orders, their identities are protected for life, even if they re-offend. The orders can only be lifted by an order of a court or tribunal. She says she wants to give voice to “hundreds” of frustrated victim-survivors who suffer in silence, while registered sex offenders and young violent offenders have their names suppressed. “It’s like all of these youth offenders go out and assault people, and then they’re back on the streets. “You give them one chance and if they do it again, they should be named.” She told of a schoolboy who suffered a permanent brain injury after being beaten by a group of youths in a stolen car. “We saw all of those offenders get out. That’s what I worry about. Why do we protect them all the time? “It was not just an assault. It was a vicious assault. If you’re attacking someone, you should be locked up.” Ms Greening says the major parties’ ‘tough on crime’ policies don’t go to the root of the problem. In response to youth crime, she calls for early intervention. To identify at-risk kids by age 10. By 14 or 15, it’s too late, she says. “The problem is we’ve got to get people to be part of the community. “If you can even stop three out of 10 going back into the system, that’s three less offending.” Law Institute of Victoria chief executive Adam Awty said the institute had cautioned against ‘tough on crime’ policies. “Research has consistently shown that punitive sentencing does not work to deter crime or keep the community safe. “Early and lengthy imprisonment disrupts protective factors and significantly increases
Janine Greening, pictured in 2016, has been an advocate for victims of crime for more than two decades. (Stewart Chambers: 150802) the likelihood that a person will be further entrenched in the criminal justice system, which causes long lasting harm to the community.” In recent weeks, political parties have released election policies that are ‘tough on crime’. The Liberal-Nationals Coalition has pitched for a new criminal court of appeal with specialist judges. Their brief would be to ensure bail decisions and sentences for serious crime match public expectations. One Nation has reportedly pitched for a panel of legal experts and citizens to examine whether sentences fit the crimes. Repeat ‘soft’ judges would be disciplined. The State Labor Government has also introduced what it claims are the nation’s toughest bail laws, as well as ‘adult time for violent crime’ reforms for juveniles. In contrast, the Greens would invest in “preventing crime in the first place” with public-health-led crisis outreach, housing and mental health support. Matthew Kirwan, the Greens candidate for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region, said research found that harsher and longer sentences are linked to higher rates of reoffending and worse long term outcomes for young people. “Sending more young people to prison only creates better trained and hardened criminals.”
16 STAR JOURNAL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
Scott Jones, Jayco’s National Head of Sales and Marketing.(Supplied)
Caravan kings weather the storm By Sahar Foladi Australian manufacturing giant Jayco has lent a helping hand to a beleaguered pensioner despite its own struggles in the business. A 71-year-old Victorian pensioner Sue McCracken wanted to buy her own cosy caravan but instead lost her entire life savings to a cruel online scam. When her story aired on A Current Affair, the team at Jayco surprised teary Sue with a brandnew $50,000 Jayco caravan from supportive dealers. Scott Jones, National Head of Sales and Marketing at Jayco, says it was the “perfect time” to help. “We’re a proud Australian manufacturer supported by the Australian community. Every now and then we get the opportunity to be involved and give back. “We’re a privately owned company of the Ryan family. They’re big on giving back to the community but also looking after the staff members.” This is nothing new at Jayco, which went to great lengths to support a mother-daughter duo of employees and their family after the mother, Pula Falconer, was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer. However, soaring taxes and operational
costs have crippled the industry with high-profile insolvencies, seeing caravan manufacturers collapse across the country. Mr Jones says Victoria is not the state to do business due to high taxes and costs. “It’s certainly a challenging time for us. It’s all about being involved from an R&D (research and development) point of view and a marketing point of view. “We find the industry must focus on supporting local manufacturing and the government needs to look into that as well,” he says. “We need to make sure we’re investing in R&D, creating new and exciting products. “We’re fortunate we’ve had the same owner for 51 years. Having that experience, we’ve seen a lot of challenges. Over those years, we needed to ensure we adapt and rise above them. “We’re planning for the situation at the moment, when we will certainly survive and thrive.” Earlier this year, caravan makers Network RV financially collapsed and Great Aussie Caravans liquidated, after both were in the industry for more than a decade. Jayco has been in the business since 1975, started by Gerry Ryan in a small shed in Cranbourne. Mr Jones says their goal over the next 12 months is to adapt to the current environment, and plan to improve coming out of that.
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Wildlife-safe net swap Greater Dandenong Council is set to join a free tree-net ‘swap’ program to help protect wildlife, such as the nearby grey-headed flying fox colony in Myuna Wetlands, Doveton. The council wasn’t part of the initial rollout, which partnered the state’s Conservation Regulator with 18 councils including the neighbouring City of Casey. The Net Swap will allow residents to exchange illegal fruit tree netting for wildlife-safe netting for free. “The net swap started with a handful of councils and is gradually rolling out to more councils,” a Greater Dandenong Council spokesperson said. “Greater Dandenong will join the net swap program shortly.” Wildlife continues to be trapped in illegal tree nets, with Wildlife Victoria attending 320 rescues in the past 12 months. In Victoria, netting on household fruit trees must have a mesh size of 5 millimetres by 5 millimetres or less. Larger mesh can entangle birds, possums and bats, causing serious injury and death. The ruleof-thumb is if your finger can pass through the mesh, it’s too big. The Net Swap helps residents comply with the law and avoid a $395 on-the-spot fine. Offenders can also face a maximum penalty of $2,964 if prosecuted in court. It follows a successful pilot program in five metropolitan councils, in which 614 illegal fruit nets were surrendered and 395 legal nets distributed. It is part of a broader Check Your Nets campaign delivered by RSPCA Victoria, Zoos Victoria, Wildlife Victoria and Animal Welfare Victoria. “After the success of the pilot program, we’re pleased to expand Net Swap to more councils, helping even more Victorians make the switch to legal fruit tree netting,” Chief Conservation Regulator Callie Donaldson said. “Every illegal net removed from circulation is one less risk to birds, possums and threatened grey-headed flying-foxes.” Greater Dandenong Council, which borders the Myuna wetland bat colony, is not part of the
A grey-headed flying fox (fruit bat) at the Myuna Wetlands colony at Doveton. (Gary Sissons: 429801)
Legal netting, with mesh that’s up to 5 millimetres by 5 millimetres. (Conservation Regulator)
A grey-headed flying foxe ensnared in an illegal net. (Conservation Regulator)
latest round of 18 councils supporting the netswap. The Net Swap program is understood to have been an opt-in partnership program for local councils. Wildlife found entangled in fruit tree netting
should only be handled by experienced wildlife rescuers. Contact 136 186 to find a rescuer or use the online Help for Injured Wildlife Tool at http:// www.wildlife.vic.gov.au/injured-native-wildlife/ wildlife-tool
A grey-headed flying fox, wounded and receiving treatment, after being caught in an illegal treenet. (Conservation Regulator)
Remorseless murderer jailed for ‘outrageous’ stabbings By William Ton, AAP
Supreme Court of Victoria. to focus his fury onto him, grabbing his shirt collar and repeatedly stabbing him as he tried to escape. Sharwan survived the attack, but Navjeet died from knife injuries to his heart and lung. Robin and his brother fled interstate before being arrested in NSW two days later. During the trial, defence barrister John Desmond said Robin had regret and remorse for his
actions, despite arguing self-defence against his surviving victim. Justice Tinney rejected Robin’s expressions of sorrow and regret to police, pointing to his decision to flee, leaving Navjeet dying on the roadway. “Your lack of regret and remorse for your offending has persisted until the present time,” he said. Navjeet’s father Jitender Sandhu, who said his son’s death had shattered the hopes and dreams of the entire family, watched the sentencing over video link. So did civilian witness Ella Cross, whose testimony highlighted the far-reaching effect of violent crime on the community. Robin gave an acknowledging glance towards two supporters in court as he was led out. The murderer has already served more than two years in pre-sentence detention and faces being deported back to India upon release.
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A remorseless murderer whose offence at an unspoken goodbye resulted in a frenzied drunken stabbing has been jailed for more than two decades. Robin Robin, 30, was found guilty by a jury of murdering Noble Park man Navjeet Singh, 22, and attempting to kill Sharwan Singh, 30, in Melbourne’s southeast in the early hours of May 5, 2024. He sat with his head bowed, listening to a Hindi interpreter as Justice Andrew Tinney sentenced the killer to 27 years’ imprisonment with a minimum of 20 years in the Victorian Supreme Court on Friday 11 September. The court needed to show “condemnation and abhorrence” of the “outrageous violence” that was spurred by the killer’s “murderous anger”, the judge said. “Your violence was extreme and wanton, car-
ried out on innocent victims in public and causing fear in the community,” he told Robin. The killer had been drinking whiskey with friends all evening at his Ormond home to celebrate his brother Abhijeet Abhijeet buying a car. When his housemate Sharwan left the party to play cards at Navjeet’s place, Robin became incensed and repeatedly called to abuse him and demand he return. He was offended his housemate had left without saying goodbye, the judge said. Robin told his housemate in an “unfair ultimatum” that he was no longer allowed in the house and said he would throw his belongings out onto the street. As Sharwan and Navjeet returned to collect his items, Robin unleashed on his housemate in a drunken rage, stabbing him in the chest in an “unprovoked and uncalled for” attack. A “brave” Navjeet intervened, only for the killer
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | STAR JOURNAL 17
NEWS
Thrills on the budget-friendly rides.
Australian Air League members run a flight simulator in a farm shed.
Casey councillor Shane Taylor, mayor Michelle Crowther, Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams, deputy mayor Anthony Walter and citizen of the year Corina Dutlow at the Australian-Filipino Community Services tent.
Damien Rosario, left, at the Dr Hotdog stall operated by independent state candidate Scott Watson.
Smiles on show in Doveton Thousands basked in glorious Spring weather as Doveton Show marked 21 years on Sunday 20 September. Set at the scenic Myuna Farm, the budget-friendly show staged by volunteers has all the trappings of Royal Melbourne Show, with
rides, farm animals, show bags, food vans, market stalls, face painting and live performances. “Our goal was to deliver a fantastic, affordable day out for the community,” show spokesperson Damien Rosario said.
“And to see thousands of people enjoying the show today is incredibly rewarding. “Welcoming more than 7,500 people through the gates is a tremendous result and a wonderful reflection of the community’s support for the Doveton Show.”
Rosario said he was proud of the organisers, volunteers, sponsors, supporters, City of Casey and Myuna Farm for staging “such a special event”. “We’re proud of what we’ve achieved together.”
Dancer shaped by the times and settings By Cam Lucadou-Wells
from her Spanish Jewish (Sephardic) roots and contemporary, she says. And Mother Tongue was about finding a ‘shared language’. Uncharted Waters marks Paul’s contemporary art debut and her first show in Victoria. It follows a Community Spheres dance-and-art workshop at Walker Street Gallery in 2023 - a community health and wellbeing event that explored healing, tolerance and hope for the future. Next month, Paul will also lead a movement workshop with choreographer Gulsen Ozer (10 October) that invites all-comers to ‘call and respond’ to the Primordial film. Dance and body movement is high art but it’s also ‘primordial’, Paul says. It’s part of how a human articulates itself in its first year of life, prior to expressing spoken language. “Dance and movement is something we’ve all done before.”
Annalouise Paul performs in front of the Uncharted Waters installation. (James Henry) As part of the exhibition calendar, Paul will also be the guest at Walker Street Gallery’s next Cultural Sketch session (1 October). Two exhibition tours will be led by Walker Street Gallery curator Miriam La Rosa on 15 October and 11 November. Uncharted Waters is at Walker Street Gallery on Wednesdays-Saturdays 11am-3pm until 14 November. Details: www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/ Uncharted-waters
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Dance, movement and space are a primary language or ‘mother tongue’ for acclaimed performer Annalouise Paul. Centre stage at Paul’s exhibition Uncharted Waters: The Journey of Mother Tongue is her newly commissioned dance film Primordial. It is screened on a spiral-shaped installation within the Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre in Dandenong. Viewers can walk in and out of the spiral – a fundamental, ‘sacred geometry’ found in shells, ferns, rivers - as they experience the film, its rhythms, its movements. “When you walk into a spiral, our body forces us to slow down,” Paul says. “When you walk out of a spiral, we are energized.” Similarly, Paul – as the film’s performer – ex-
plores how environments like a modern urban setting, bushland and desert shapes us and our movements. The geometries shift from a grid in a modern, urban world to a pentagram/triangle as part of an ancient pyramid. Then her movements are guided by a double helix and spiral as part of the natural world and finally a future of an unknown geometry. “I was forced to adapt to Nature. In bushland, I couldn’t make big, sweeping movements because of the branches and twigs. “I needed to sit still, be quiet and see what movement comes up.” The exhibition explores the 15-year-plus process of Paul’s interdisciplinary research project Mother Tongue – in which she has collaborated with body percussion, rhythm, dance and vocals from around the world. If dance is her language or mother tongue, her process is ‘bilingual’ – flowing between flamenco
18 STAR JOURNAL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
NEWS
Walkers sample the new brightly endowed road underpass. (VIDA Rail Media)
An entertainer rings in the Webster Street project celebration at Dandenong Park. (VIDA Rail Media)
Musicians herald the new roadway opposite Dandenong Park. (VIDA Rail Media)
Street party celebration Dandenong’s newest roadway has been opened in glorious sunshine and style at an event at Dandenong Park on Sunday 20 September. The public was free to walk the 450-metre, four-lane underpass linking Princes Highway-Lonsdale Street to Cheltenham and
Hammond roads two days ahead of its opening to traffic on 22 September. While in the park, there was free food, family fun, stalls and entertainment on offer. The event marks the completion of the Webster Street level crossing removal project
- the 96th of its type by the State Government since 2014. The road passes beneath the Dandenong rail corridor, with its walls emblazoned in vibrant greens, reds, oranges and yellows. A new shared path along Webster Street
that links to Dandenong Trail, while Webster Street is closed at the rail line. Two newly-named streets Merle Parade and Dow Court were enacted, paying tribute to trailblazing local women Merle Mitchell and Pat Dow.
Signposts honour local legends Pat and Merle’s service and ensure their names remain part of Greater Dandenong’s story.” The Dow and Merle namings attracted strong community support after being nominated by Greater Dandenong Council this year, the council stated. Dow volunteered for more than 40 years in Dandenong, serving the Dandenong Hospital Auxiliary, Red Cross, Meals on Wheels, schools, Scouts and community arts groups. She was part of a 10-year parents’ campaign to raise money to build 12th Dandenong North Scout Hall and a long-time supporter of Dandenong Festival of Music and Art for Youth. Mitchell was a local and national trailblazer for social justice, community cohesion and diversity. She was the CEO of the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS), an advocate of the Council of the Ageing and founder of Springvale Community Aid and Advice Bureau (SCAAB). From the 1970s, through SCAAB she was an active part of the remarkable Springvale community effort to befriend and support 30,000 refugees at the Enterprise hostel. In 2019, Mitchell’s testimony about living in
Pat Dow volunteered more than 40 years of services for a multitude of causes. (Mark Wilson Media/City of Greater Dandenong) Greater Dandenong mayor Sophie Tan with the new street signs honouring Pat Dow and Merle Mitchell. (City of Greater Dandenong) aged care blazed into national headlines at a national Royal Commission. “Merle spent so much of her life standing up for and trying to make things better for others,” Mitchell’s son, Rick Mitchell said. “Having Merle Parade named in her honour will be a lasting tribute, and it means a great deal to our family.” Meanwhile, Dow’s sons Chris, Mike and Greg said the gesture meant a great deal to their family. “Mum never sought recognition. She simply loved Dandenong and believed in helping where she could,” Chris said on behalf of the family. “Seeing her name become part of Dandenong
Merle Parade, top left, and Dow Court, bottom right, are created by part closures of Cheltenham Road and Webster Street. (City of Greater Dandenong) in this way means so much to our family.” Dow and Mitchell were named as Greater Dandenong Living Treasures in their latter years.
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Two newly-named streets immortalising a pair of late Living Treasures are set to open in Dandenong on Tuesday 22 September. Dow Court, named after prodigious community volunteer Pat Dow, is part of the closed-off section of Webster Street between the railway line and Princes Highway. Merle Parade, named after trailblazing social justice advocate Merle Mitchell AM, is a section of Cheltenham Road between Foster Street and Hammond Road. Both roads are formed as part of the Webster Street level crossing removal project - which includes a new road underpass connecting Lonsdale Street-Princes Highway and Hammond Road. Mayor Sophie Tan said it would give lasting public recognition for two women whose contribution was felt across the city. “Street names are more than markers. They are part of how a city remembers the people who have helped shape it. “Historically, women’s contributions haven’t often been recognised in the naming of public places and landmarks. “Dow Court and Merle Parade help recognise
dandenong.starcommunity.com.au
Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | STAR JOURNAL 19
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WHAT’S ON ■ Exhibition is on Friday 16 October and Saturday 17 October, 10am-4pm at Noble Park Community Centre, Memorial Drive, Noble Park. Details: events@nobleparkcc.org.au or 9547 5801 or www.npccartshow.org.au
evening under the stars with family and friends. ■ Wednesday 23 September, 6pm at Harmony Square, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free entry. No bookings required.
night under the stars with your family and friends. ■ Friday 25 September, 6pm at Harmony Square, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free event. No bookings required.
Plant and Paint
Ready2Rally Tennis
Kids paint their own pot, plant a seedling, and take it home in this fun, hands-on workshop. Suitable for primary school ages, with parents and siblings welcome. ■ Thursday 24 September, 11am-12pm at Autumn Place Community Hub, Autumn Place, Doveton; free event. Bookings required: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1597309 Details: 9792 7382 or autumnplacech@casey.vic.gov.au
Free, beginner-friendly tennis-based program for women and girls of all cultural backgrounds, faiths, abilities and experiences. Fun games, music and snacks. For ages 12 years or older. ■ Sundays 27 September, 11 October, 25 October, 8 November, 22 November and 6 December, 4pm-5pm at Burden Park Tennis Club, Olympic Avenue, Springvale South; free event. Registration required. Details: Peter Cunningham, 0408 539 363 or burdenparktennis@gmail.com
Dance Workshop
Family Workout
Join Bhangra Groove for a fun, high-energy dance workshop exploring Indian folk dance with a modern twist. No experience needed. For ages 12-25. ■ Thursday 24 September, 1.30pm-3pm at Drum Theatre, 226 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free event. Registrations required: https://events. humanitix.com/cgd-september-school-holidays
Fun and energetic family workout class led by a qualified instructor. A great way to get active, build confidence in the water, and have fun as a family. ■ Monday 28 September, 5.30am-8pm at Noble Park Aquatic Centre, 9 Memorial Drive, Noble Park; free event. Bookings required on 9546 7955.
Kids Sing-Along Workshop
Go Badminton
Kids can race, climb and slide on the Inflatable Splash Zone set up. Children must wear bathers, be supervised at all times. Discounts for children aged 10 and under. ■ Tuesday 22 September, 12.30pm-3.30pm at Dandenong Oasis, cnr Heatherton Road and Cleeland Street, Dandenong; $2 per child (10 years and under). No bookings required.
A free Victorian Youth Week event for young people aged 12-25 years. Soccer clinic with Melbourne City FC and basketball clinic, live DJ performances by the Amplify Youth Committee, free BBQ, openmic performance session. Event is proudly created by young people, for young people. ■ Wednesday 23 September, 12pm-3pm at Springvale Community Hub, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Registrations required at https://events.humanitix.com/cgd-septemberschool-holidays
Mystery Party Workshop
Science Lab
Put your detective skills to the test in this exciting mystery adventure. Then enjoy a range of fun, mystery-themed team games in this actionpacked school holiday program. Presented by Jellybean Entertainment. For ages 8-plus. ■ Tuesday 22 September, 2.30pm-4pm at Springvale Library, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Registration required at https://greaterdandenong-events.bookable. net.au/#!/event-detail/ev_4461811cc9d94f7 5a630d99c04399288
Put on your lab coat and get ready for exciting experiments, amazing reactions and hands-on discoveries. Lab coats and safety glasses provided. For ages 5-12. Presented by Jellybean Entertainment. ■ Wednesday 23 September, 2.30pm-4pm at Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free event. Registration required at https://greaterdandenong-events.bookable. net.au/#!/event-detail/ev_7b7b978b80e0412 ead9f38f3f71a8175
Art Show entries open
Cinema night
Beginner-friendly flower arranging class. Create your own arrangement to take home. All materials are provided. Class led by the team under Dr Shoso Shimbo, a certified ikebana teacher with more than 30 years of experience, CEO of the Melbourne Ikebana Festival and recipient of numerous Australian and international awards. For ages 16-plus. ■ Thursday 24 September, 6.30pm-8pm at Springvale Library, 5 Hillcrest Grove, Springvale; free event. Registration required at https:// greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net.au/#!/ event-detail/ev_51e1bb06149e4f8aa376315 cc7aa30a1
Noble Park Community Centre Art Show invites artists of all levels to enter by 5 October.
Spies in Disguise (PG). Bring a blanket, pack your favourite movie snacks, and settle in for a magical
Physical theatre company ‘Born in a Taxi’ reimagines this 100-year-old children’s story by Margery Williams. Please bring your own favourite snuggly toy to the show. This is a show where the toys are in charge on stage and your own special guest toy is a very important person. Free childrens activities before and after the show. ■ Tuesday 22 September, 11am-12pm at Drum Theatre, cnr Lonsdale and Walker streets, Dandenong; $25/$17/$20. Bookings: https:// greaterdandenong-events.bookable.net. au/#!/event-book/ev_aad30538f23f492fbb6 cbb18e3636c4a?eventDateID=760
Rock Climbing Have fun these school holidays at Clip ‘n Climb. Try different climbing walls, challenge yourself, and build your confidence. No experience needed. Bus pick-up and drop-off points at Dandenong, Noble Park and Springvale. For ages 12-25. ■ Tuesday 22 September, 12pm-2pm at Activate by Hardrock, 4/444 Warrigal Road, Heatherton; $25. Registration required at https:// events.humanitix.com/cgd-september-schoolholidays
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Nature Scavenger Hunt Children receive their own Garden Detective card and set off on an imaginative scavenger hunt, searching for natural treasures, curious textures and tiny signs of life. For ages 2-plus. ■ 23-24 September, 30 September and 1 October, 10am-2pm at Heritage Hill Museum and Historic Gardens, 66 McCrae Street, Dandenong; free event.
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Create your own manga-style characters and illustrations. Explore manga and anime art techniques including character design, facial expressions and dynamic poses. For ages 12-25. ■ Monday 28 September, 2.30pm-4pm at Dandenong Library, 225 Lonsdale Street, Dandenong; free event. Registrations required at https://events.humanitix.com/cgd- september- school-holidays
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Go Badminton’s qualified coaches run a free 90-minute come-and-try session - warm-up games, footwork races, rally challenges and mini-matches. Children grouped by age and ability, so complete beginners and keen players all get plenty of hits. For ages 5-12. Required to wear runners (no boots), wear comfortable clothes, BYO water bottle. Rackets available to hire or bring your own. ■ Monday 28 September 10am-11.30am at Badminton Connect, Rear Service Road 7, 450 Princes Highway, Noble Park; free event. Bookings required: https://docs.google.com/forms/ d/e/1FAIpQLScxtrFzNokZohqdvFSolYGgXdrqW PhX5nQXnwykkBfL6_Cvvw/viewform
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No-pressure, all-abilities-welcome session. Sing loudly, sing softly, or simply listen. Everyone is invited to be part of the music. Suitable for families. ■ Thursday 24 September, 2.30pm-3.30pm at Keysborough Community Hub, 10 Villiers Road, Keysborough; free event. Registration required at https://greaterdandenongevents.bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/ev_ f74a65e5698743e182c31ff0a231deed
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Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | STAR JOURNAL 21
SPORT
Dandenong Stingrays are premiers for the first time; Sophie White, Molly Reimers, Scarlett Marsh, Gabrielle Mehrmann, Georgia Goss, Hannah Griffiths, Evi Irving, Lily Brittain, Zoe Zach, Marlee Black, Annie Clish, Indiana Busuttil, Olive Henry, Grace Patten, Shiloh Little, Eden Rowe, Jasmine Whitten, Ella Bologa, Molly Gilligan, Bailea Shipp, Ebony Stevenson, Amelia Hamod and Shae Anderson.. (AFL Photos)
Zoe Zach won the best on ground medal for the Stingrays. (The Dilma Photography)
History made by Stingrays By Blair Burns Dandenong Stingrays made history in the Talent League Girls competition, capping an undefeated season with the club’s first-ever premiership after defeating Oakleigh Chargers 9.3 (57) to 3.9 (27) at Whitten Oval on Saturday. A clinical second quarter ultimately set up the victory, with the Stingrays piling on four unanswered goals to take control heading into halftime. Across the end of the third quarter and beginning of the last, Dandenong added another four goals without reply, meaning it had kicked eight majors since the Chargers’ last goal. The victory made the Dandenong girls the first side to win a Talent League Girls premiership undefeated since the competition was formed in 2016, defeating an Oakleigh side which had won three premierships in the past six seasons.
After meeting in preliminary finals in the past three years, the sides finally met in the big dance in 2026. It was also third time lucky for the Stingrays, who had lost their previous two grand finals, including last year’s decider against Eastern Ranges. Under the scorching sun, a huge crowd packed Whitten Oval, with plenty of signs in support of the Stingrays girls. All-Australian ruck Sophie White gave her midfielders first use early, while Molly Reimers started brilliantly in the engine room. Four minutes into the match, Dandenong opened the scoring when Reimers won a clearance and found bottom-ager Annie Clish, who handballed to Lily Brittain. Brittain kicked long towards Amelia Hamod, but the ball bounced through for a goal. The match-up between Oakleigh prospect
Bailee Martin and Dandenong defender Gabrielle Mehrmann was another feature. Mehrmann kept Martin to one goal in last year’s preliminary final and did the job again, with Martin’s only goal coming from a holding free kick in the first term. Oakleigh led 13-6 at quarter-time despite Dandenong dominating territory 12-4 in inside 50s, with Reimers gathering eight disposals and four tackles. Oakleigh had chances early in the second quarter, with Scarlett Bown registering three shots inside three minutes but failing to convert. Dandenong made the Chargers pay, however, kicking four consecutive goals to finish the half. Scarlett Marsh kickstarted the run with a rundown tackle before finding Hannah Griffiths with a spectacular pack mark, while Clish, Reimers and Marsh all hit the scoreboard as Dandenong took a 33-16 lead into the main break.
The Stingrays continued their pressure after half-time, with Zoe Zach kicking the first goal of the second half before Shae Anderson added another late in the term after a holding-the-ball free kick. The fourth quarter became a celebration as Clish snapped her second goal before Anderson capitalised on an opportunistic chance moments later. The siren sounded on a historic 16 wins, one draw and one premiership season. Zach was named best on ground after collecting 21 disposals, one goal and seven tackles, while Reimers was also outstanding with 20 disposals, one goal and 11 tackles. Clish and Anderson finished with two goals each. Skipper Marlee Black and coach Nathan Boyd proudly held the premiership cup aloft as last year’s heartbreak was finally turned into triumph.
Templeton a standout as Power breaks lengthy drought By Blair Burns Gippsland Power captain Cody Templeton kicked five goals in a best-on-ground performance to guide his side to premiership glory for the first time in 21 years in the Talent League Boys competition. The Power ran away in the second half to beat the Dandenong Stingrays 16.10 (106) to 10.11 (71). When the Power last held the premiership cup aloft in 2005, it was a young Dale Thomas who produced a strikingly similar performance with four goals and 20 disposals. The match at Mission Whitten Oval in pristine spring conditions was a magnificent showcase of regional talent, serving as the first all-country decider since 2008 when Steele Sidebottom famously booted 10 goals for Murray Bushrangers. Coach Kris Pendlebury led the side to the promised land, breaking the drought over an in-form Stingrays line-up by 35 points behind a combined 10-goal haul from Templeton and key forward Wil Malady - eight of which came during a devastating second-half surge. Templeton engaged in an entertaining battle with Dandenong captain Gus Kennedy and it is fair to say that he had the last laugh as he stood tall in the clutch moments; but Kennedy was also one of his team’s better performers. It was a brilliant showcase of Talent League football with both teams taking the game on and moving the ball quickly from end to end. The day started with an early clearance from Dandenong Stingrays’ Kaie Sullivan with Gippsland tall defender Xavier Ladbrook taking a big contested mark after leading his opponent
Gippsland Power broke a 21-year drought, defeating Dandenong Stingrays by 35 points on Saturday; Jimmy Little, Levi Macumber, Jack Hilton, Judd Burgiel, Keenan Boi, Cody Templeton, Marlon Neocleous, Jobe Froud, Blake Bibby, Thomas Macmillan, Oscar Henwood, Leo Stephenson, Will Burgiel, Augustus Finsterer, Charlie Fischer, Hamish Gill, Wil Malady, Alex Ingham, Blair Roscoe, Cohen Dent, Xavier Ladbrook, Clancy Snell and Henry Allsop. (AFL Photos) Corey Ah Mu to the footy…Ladbrook looked on for a big game. Unfortunately for the Stingrays, they were unable to make the most of their ascendancy early in the match. At quarter time, Dandenong led by six points after a strong opening term where it managed to generate 16 inside-50s to Gippsland’s nine.
22 STAR JOURNAL | Tuesday, 22 September, 2026
And even as the second quarter progressed, the Stingrays still looked the better team, holding the upper hand thanks to some good outings from Ben Carroll, Mitch Toner, Andrio Sousa and Kaie Sullivan. Top-10 prospect Malady stood tall to put together one of his best games for the year with five second-half goals flipping the game on its head in Gippsland’s favour after he was well
held by Darcy Szerszyn in the first half. With Gippsland trailing by seven points at half time, it looked like this game was going to go down to the wire in the second half before Malady had a crazy few minutes. He kicked three goals in the space of three minutes early in the third quarter and put his side up by 11 points before Templeton got in on the action and added two of his own. The seven-goal-to-three third term set up the result for Gippsland Power as they opened up a 19-point lead by three-quarter time. A minute into the final term and a Henry Allsop mark in the defensive goal square kickstarted an attacking chain. As he had done so often in the grand final, Levi Macumber gathered the ball on the wing and put on the afterburners, getting away from his opponent and hitting up Templeton just inside 50 on the boundary. The now premiership captain played on and sold some serious candy to his opponent, sending him diving on the ground before running closer to goal before snapping it through the big sticks - for his fifth goal of the game. It was the play of the day and it gave all of the spectators that feeling that the Power wouldn’t be denied from here. Despite a quick response from Sousa at the other end, Gippsland had done enough and a Macumber dribble goal was soon to follow as celebration mode began. Other strong performers in the victory included Oscar Henwood (18 disposals, seven tackles), Judd Burgiel (29 disposals, nine inside50s), Keenan Boi (13 disposals, two goals) and Ladbrook (17 disposals, eight marks).
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SPORT
Hawks twos hunt then hurt By Justin Schwarze East Ringwood held off a gallant Rowville to eclipse the 2026 Eastern Premier Division title on Saturday. The Roos were the benchmark all year; going 16-2 in the home-and-away season before winning two finals over the Hawks. The minor premiers got the jump in front of a huge crowd at Jubilee Park in Ringwood; managing the first six scores of the afternoon for 3.3. Seth Macdonald got Rowville on the board shortly after as Lachlan Wynd found him by foot and he went back and nailed his set shot. But the rest of the quarter was all East Ringwood as the Roos booted another two goals to lead imposingly 5.4 (34) to 1.2 (8) at quarter time. The Hawks fired back in the second by slotting four goals to one, pulling within a straight kick at the main break, 6.4 (40) to 5.4 (34). East Ringwood attempted to apply some pressure early in the second half, with superstar Josh Fox marking in a pack and converting. He then booted his second for the quarter near the 18-minute mark as he reeled in a grab in the pocket and perfectly bent through a snap. But Josh Clarke ensured Rowville went into the final term with the momentum as he got a handball receive from Lachlan Stapleton and shaped it perfectly to bury it on the run from 35. At the final change, East Ringwood led 8.5 (53) to 6.6 (42). Gun Blake Pearson made a statement to open the fourth, laying a strong tackle on Jayden Martingale, catching him holding the ball, before drilling it home. But emerging talent Baxter Sruk showed exactly why he’s on the radar of AFL recruiters, as he stepped up in a big moment by gathering the footy at ground level, evading tacklers before putting it through around the corner. Rowville was rolling now as Nik Schoenmakers drew a free kick right on 50; but missed to the right. Sruk then marked and looked to kick his third, but he dragged it wide across the face, before he had another chance 45 seconds later but his dribbler brushed the post. Ryan Webster made the Hawks pay for their inaccurate kicking as he marked 20 out directly in front and made no mistake at the other end. But Jordan Jaworski kept Rowville in it by capitalising on the back of a 25-metre penalty as his piercing kick from 45 carried over the goal umpire’s head; bringing it back to eight points.
Rowville Reserves, back-to-back premiers, Eastern Premier; Jai Coleclough, Brock Coleclough, Brodie Herkess, Wundarra Thomas, Matthew Martini, Thomas Lockman, Matt Davey, Riley Linke, Ryan Laffan, Archie Stainthorpe, Jake Phipps, Cooper Stainthorpe, Tate Scrivanos, Mitchell Jago, Blake Chambers, Lachlan Toomey, Kyah Cronin, Thomas Hawkins, Aaron Linton, Patrick Corfee, Lachie McCarthy, Jaylan Atton, Brodie Toomey and Zach Tulloch. (Supplied) The Hawks surged back inside 50 at the 19-minute mark, but Tristan Tweedie saw it over the line for a rushed behind. Schoenmakers then earned another rucking free kick in the forward 50, but his long attempt was off to the right. But he was determined to make up for it, tapping a contest to himself and taking off down the wing with a bounce, before firing a long handpass to youngster Sruk. Sruk unloaded from 45 with the game on his boot and a chance to tie it, but it sailed to the left and trimmed it to five points. The next four minutes were stoppage-filled, but the Roos survived to hoist their first flag in the top flight in 24 years, winning 10.5 (65) to 8.12 (60).
Full back Tweedie was awarded the best on ground medal for his intercept marking and defensive efforts. The news was much better for the Rowville reserves, who came from 12 points behind at three-quarter time to win the premiership with an 8.7(55) to 6.7(43) win over East Ringwood. The Hawks kicked 5.2 to 1.2 in the final term, with late goals to Patrick Corfee and Jai Coleclough breaking a 43-43 deadlock with just minutes left on the clock. The win gave the Hawks back-to-back flags with Coleclough the hero with three goals. Blackburn won the Under-19 premiership with an 8.12(60) to 2.14(26) victory over a wildlyinaccurate Berwick.
EASTERN PREMIER GRAND FINAL EAST RINGWOOD 5.4 6.4 8.5 10.5(65) ROWVILLE 1.2 5.4 6.6 8.12(60) East Ringwood Goals: Josh Fox 3, Felix Seymour 2, Remy Maclean, Will MacRae, Blake Pearson, Ryan Webster, Connor Weightman. Best: Tristan Tweedie (Medal), Steven May, James Belo, Riley Weatherill, Josh Fox, Damon Delaney. Rowville Goals: Baxter Sruk 2, Josh Clarke, Jordan Jaworski, Seth Macdonald, Thomas Swainston, Lachlan Wynd, Kane Young. Best: Baxter Sruk, Anthony Brolic, Lachlan Stapleton, Tyler Edwards, Kane Young, Jayden Martingale.
Bulls mean buiness as Treloar returns to where it began By David Nagel Noble Park has wasted no time in signalling its intent of a quick return to the top flight of Eastern Premier Division football after the Bulls announced the signing of former club junior Adam Treloar for the 2027 season. The move back to Moodemere Street comes after a brilliant 263-game AFL career, across three clubs. He was drafted from the Dandenong Stingrays to GWS, before well-documented stints at Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs. Treloar won All Australian honours in 2024 and won the only premiership of his career when he helped the Bulldogs to victory in the 2025 VFL grand final. “He’s come back to where it all started,” Noble Park said. “We are proud and extremely excited to announce that Adam Treloar will be back in the blue and gold for the 2027 season.” Treloar only recently made an emotional farewell to the AFL; clearly recalling his early days at Noble Park and the Stingrays. “I was a kid from Dandy who grew up with nothing; except a loving family, and I pinch myself because that seven-year-old boy, who first picked up a footy, would be so proud,” he said during his farewell message to supporters. Treloar was recognised as a top-end talent in his first year at the Stingrays, winning the Kevin Sheehan Medal for the best player in the Under-16 National Championships in 2009. Things are looking promising for the Bulls, relegated to Division 1 next year, with co-cap-
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Adam Treloar proudly wears the Kevin Sheehan Medal, awarded to the best player in the 2009 Under-16 National Championships. (Stewart Chambers: 37171) tains Lachie McDonnell and Ben Marson recommitting to the club. The Bulls have also signed Robbie McComb, drafted by the Western Bulldogs in 2022 after winning the club’s VFL best and fairest award in 2021. McComb played 18 AFL games across two seasons for the Bulldogs. The 30-year-old midfielder, a Vermont premiership star, played in the Central Murray League this year after playing for Port Melbourne Colts in the Southern League in 2025. Noble Park is now coached by club-legend Kyle Martin, who takes over from premiership coach Steve Hughes.
Adam Treloar will return to his junior club Noble Park for the 2027 Eastern Division 1 season. (Joel Carrett/AAP: 579917)
Tuesday, 22 September, 2026 | STAR JOURNAL 23
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