Thieves have stolen cigarettes during a ram-raid of a service station in Noble Park North early on Sunday 20 April Greater Dandenong CIU detectives say two white vehicles arrived at the servo on Jacksons Road about 5.35am One of the vehicles rammed the front door before a group of offenders entered and stole cigarettes Any information or CCTV/dashcam footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au Lendlease has quietly sold a south east Melbourne business park to agent-turned-investor and developer who has already started the process of selling it down for a profit The 10-unit estate at 450-466 Princes Highway cost Mr Wilson’s Terraplex $44.6 million in July three of the units have since been onsold for an average 44 per cent premium The balance will be divested over the next 18-24 months Lendlease held the asset on behalf of the Australian Prime Property Fund Industrial Ben Hegerty and Joel Scully were the agents Terraplex is buying and selling down the asset on behalf of an opportunity fund which closed oversubscribed prior to settlement there is a total 22,084 square metres of lettable area Five units face the Princes Hwy (story continues below) The purchase price is below replacement cost too “Our research indicates there is a strong demand from both tenants and owner occupiers for this type of product/location and the calibre of the existing tenant base such as Verbatim and Sime Darby will be popular to private investors,” according to Mr Wallace Last September, Terraplex sold down the last piece of South Melbourne’s Emerald Hill Terraces – a retail asset acquired as a whole in 2015 with a similar mandate to 450-466 Princes Hwy Subscribe to our newsletter at the bottom of this page A former property analyst and print journalist Marc is the publisher of realestatesource.com.au Forgot your password? You will receive mail with link to set new password Back to login This is probably not the page you’re looking for Police detectives are investigating a suspicious fire that gutted a gym in Noble Park North overnight as well as possible links to a spate of other commercial fires Emergency services were alerted to the building fire at the corner of Overseas Drive and Princes Highway about 11pm on Tuesday 13 August finding the 1500-square-metre building fully engulfed in fire “Firefighters were unable to conduct a primary search of the building however all occupants were accounted for,’ an FRV spokesperson said “Crews prepared to attack the fire internally and set up arial appliances to black out hot spots.” The fire was declared under control by 12.50am Emergency Vic had issued an alert message about visible smoke in the area Victoria Police has put a crime scene guard in place while investigating the crime scene the fire is being treated as suspicious,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said The spate of recent suspicious fires include a factory on Healey Road There was also a suspicious ram-raid fire that damaged three shops on Heyington Crescent “Investigators will look at any possible links to other recent fires,” the police spokesperson said Any information on the fires to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au has been impressively renovated in trying circumstances A Noble Park couple who used a hi-tech home renovation to help keep their minds off a cancer battle are selling the chic result of their efforts The 21 Kingswood Cres house has voice-controlled automation for almost everything including the front door and the sprinklers Mitchell Pryor – who won several medals as part of the Australian Youth Olympics swimming team a bit over a decade ago – works on high-end homes as an electrician RELATED: Victorian real estate: what will your home be worth in 2027? Melbourne real estate: The latest auction and sales results for week ending December 12 Melbourne auctions: record weeks a long-awaited chance for buyers He and wife Corinne put plenty of what he has learnt into an overhaul of their four-bedroom residence The pair pushed on with adding a 180sq m extension to the 1960s build as she endured radiation and chemotherapy “It was a way to keep our minds off the situation,” Mr Pryor said The home’s facade has been kept much as it always was But the rear of the home is now decidedly more modern with Ms Pryor now in remission and their home’s renovation completed before the pandemic hit turning on airconditioning and even unlocking the door when it senses your phone nearby A butler’s kitchen is kept out of sight from guests The spacious entertainment space at the rear of the home The hi-tech additions join a high-end modern design for the rear extension that pairs 5.4m-tall cathedral ceilings with full-height glazing and contemporary open-plan design A style-centric kitchen features stone benchtops and a butler’s pantry The facade retains its ’60s brick architecture and the front rooms have kept their decorative high ceilings and plantation shutters Rooms near the front of the home retain a more period style Lavish bathroom spaces feature floor-to-ceiling tiles Barry Plant’s Tim Stickley is handling inquiries for the property which has already started to attract buyers Offers are due for the home by 2pm on Wednesday Sign up to the Herald Sun Weekly Real Estate Update. Click here to get the latest Victorian property market news delivered direct to your inbox MORE: Melbourne celebrities reveal how they got on the property ladder Hampton home of adventurer and developer Paul Hameister for sale Farmers splash $440m to reclaim land from offshore investors third parties have written and supplied the content and we are not responsible for it completeness or reliability of the information nor do we accept any liability or responsibility arising in any way from omissions or errors contained in the content We do not recommend sponsored lenders or loan products and we cannot introduce you to sponsored lenders We strongly recommend that you obtain independent advice before you act on the content realestate.com.au is owned and operated by ASX-listed REA Group Ltd (REA:ASX) © REA Group Ltd. By accessing or using our platform, you agree to our Terms of Use. Suburbs: Noble Park North and parts of Dandenong North and Springvale Sitting councillor: Lana Formoso (Australian Labor Party) How long have you lived in Greater Dandenong: Born and raised and now raising my 2 sons here business/employer name: Teacher at Dandenong High School Councillor since 2020 and Mayor of the City of Greater Dandenong since November 2023 Three most important issues for your ward: Sports facilities/grounds access for all especially children and females (Masterplans Barry Powell/Lyndale United Football Club) Road safety especially around schools and ensuring the Stud Road signalised crossing is delivered Continuing to ensure more parks and playgrounds are delivered and upgraded in the ward to be able to enjoy open space areas Continue to work on improving tree canopy coverage throughout the ward and the entire municipality for the health and well being of our community Describe your involvement in the local community: I have been an elected Councillor since 2020 Deputy Mayor in 2022 and then Mayor since November 2023 It has been a great honour and privilege to serve the community I live I believe I have achieved some wonderful outcomes for my community I am an SES volunteer for the City of Greater Dandenong unit I have been involved in numerous sporting clubs and organisations I have been a fierce advocate and ambassador for Monash Children’s Hospital and My Room Children’s Cancer charity since my son’s Leukemia diagnosis in 2022 I believe my first term as your local representative has been outstanding and I wish to continue to work tirelessly for my ward and the entire municipality I am deeply concerned that our community is the least active community in all of Australia I need to ensure that those statistics improve dramatically to ensure the healthy and well being of our community and future generations I will also continue to advocate for our refugees and asylum seekers MPs or ex-MPs have assisted or advised your campaign Using my experience and knowledge as a councillor for the past 4 years I have previously been inspired to run for council after watching former Councillor and Mayor Roz Blades AM and all of the incredible work she has done in our city for decades The only people I believe to be genuine candidates Greater Dandenong mayor Lana Formoso’s family is set to contest several wards at the Greater Dandenong Council election Cr Formoso will re-contest her Noble Park North seat her husband Daniel Formoso will oppose Dandenong North Ward incumbent councillor Bob Milkovic and her brother Sasha Jankovic will run in Keysborough South Ward while Daniel is a former member still holding “Labor values” The move was a “spontaneous” and “very last-minute” decision after seeing the lack of candidates running in the election I asked Daniel why don’t you run in this ward “We didn’t see a lot of people putting their hand up Cr Formoso said that her family members were “extremely motivated” to run for council after being “inspired” by her own “fantastic” work for Noble Park North “They’ve seen how impactful I’ve been as one person Imagine what more people with the same values can achieve a horticulturalist and landscaper who has volunteered at Lyndale soccer club Silverton Cricket Club and Mulgrave Cricket Club said he wanted improved parks including Lois Twohig Reserve Cr Formoso said Jankovic was born and raised in Dandenong a soccer prodigy who is affiliated with Springvale White Eagles and their church in Keysborough Daniel wanted to take a “leaf out of Lana’s book” in running in their home ward “You couldn’t have more of an impressive ambassador,” he says Council meeting arguments looked like a “school classroom” at times “Everyone should be on the same page – if (Lana and I are) both elected combined we’d have better outcomes,” Daniel said When asked how other councillors might feel Cr Formoso said the “dynamic duo” would alternate attending in person at council meetings The other would stay home and attend online She believes a spouse team would be a first for Greater Dandenong “We want to see some changes in Dandenong North “I noticed there has been some neglect there and needed some advocacy like the Stud Road crossing.” She proudly looks at the line markings for a long-awaited signalized pedestrian crossing at Stud Road and McFees Road she was at the forefront of lobbying for urgent action after the tragic death of a two-year-old boy on Stud Road last December state funding was belatedly announced for the ‘shovel-ready’ project The project will include flattening the undulating Stud Road surface as well as a council funded footpath from the crossing to Dandenong Stadium Dandenong North independent Cr Milkovic said “Lana did her bit” as well as lobbying from Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams and Greater Dandenong Council we had no control over that state project.” He questioned why the Formoso clan wanted to “cover the council” “I’d be a little concerned having three of 11 councillors belonging to the same family “I expected the Labor party would be up against me “I’m not sure how the residents will respond – they’ll wonder is this good for us or not?” Love Agravante – who is a member of Milkovic’s real estate firm – is running against Cr Formoso in Noble Park North Ward Milkovic said he’d “tremendously” enjoyed his term as councillor He was proud of the start of the Lois Twohig Reserve upgrade masterplan a well-received upgrade to the active Brady Road shopping strip and improvements to Tirhatuan Park “I’ve delivered what the residents were asking for “You don’t need to spend copious money on research and consultation from outside companies apply yourself and push to get our share of the pie.” Milkovic says most of the resident requests are “everyday stuff” like rubbish collection “I’m truly blessed that my residents are easy-going and are not after anything overly political – like signing nuclear disarmament treaties Cr Milkovic will be opposed by not only Daniel Formoso but other Labor-leaning candidates Branka Tomic and Rhonda Tannous “I think it’s important to have an independent presence on council We need people to represent the residents.” Tomic is a marriage celebrant and aged care worker bakery at Dandenong Market and ran for council in 2016 said she wanted to be the “voice of the community” This class is designed to provide additional learning experiences outside of the standard homeschooling curriculum with a focus on specific subjects and skills – Tuesdays 11.30am-1pm at Noble Park Community Centre The Sensational Springvale tour will take participants beyond Springvale Road Book your seat at the table today as we celebrate the Year of the Snake Buckingham Avenue Springvale; $35pp including tastings and a meal Registrations essential at drumticketing.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/10362 Ring in the Year of the Snake with an unforgettable celebration – which also marks 50 years of South Eastern Melbourne Vietnamese Association Council (SEMVAC) – Saturday 22 February 10am-10pm at Burden Park Greater Dandenong Sustainability Festival recycling right and environmental volunteering – Sunday 23 February 10am-3pm at Dandenong Market corner Clow and Cleeland streets Dandenong A Victoria Police panel will take questions from the audience about what issues are important in your community Registrations required at NHP-GREATERDANDENONG-MGR@police.vic.gov.au We will help you to improve your English and understand the questions and answers in the citizenship test – Thursdays 6.30pm-8.30pm at Noble Park Community Centre Join us for a scenic walk around the beautiful Dandenong Wetlands with our Heart Foundation Walking Group Whether you’re a seasoned walker or just starting out everyone is welcome to join in and enjoy the fresh air relax and unwind with a free hot beverage at Dandenong Stadium Registration required at surveymonkey.com/r/6N3FB83 Artists from around Australia present their creativity on panels measuring nine inches by five inches in a wide variety of styles Dandenong U3A will begins a new year of sessions in February U3A is a group with various activities for Seniors looking for entertainment of various types and friendship At present we are running 33 sessions with the possibility of more to be offered as the year goes on We use three different venues around Greater Dandenong Enquiries: Enquiry@dandenongu3a.org.au or 0494 018 356 This immersive experience delves into the complex narratives of migration Through collaborative drawing sessions and conversations Zein unveils the hidden journeys of displaced objects – until Friday 28 February (Tuesdays 12pm-4pm at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre Join us for an inspiring conversation over morning tea deputy CEO of the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre will lead a dynamic Community Panel including Greater Dandenong Community Advocacy coordinator Peter Johnstone and Australian Federal Police community liaison officer Anisa Sharif Greater Dandenong Interfaith Network members and concession $25 Details: Executive@interfaithnetork.org.au Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch hosts its first public forum for 2025 with guest speaker Sergeant Jerome Ithier from Greater Dandenong Highway Patrol – Wednesday 26 March 7.30pm (doors open 7pm) at Paddy O`Doughue Centre “WE” – Women’s Empowerment Workshops Developed for disadvantaged women in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities in Dandenong The workshops are designed to enhance social cohesion and self-advocacy in a fun and supportive environment Topics around personal welbeing such as fitness – Wednesdays 10.30am-12.30pm at Paddy O’Donoghue Centre Register at https://www.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/events/we-womens-empowerment-workshops Women Working Together Employment Support Program A program connecting women aged 50 and above and in need of assistance Open to women across the southeastern suburbs including Casey Visit cotavic.org.au/our-programs/employment-support The Conversation Corner is a safe space to share stories and build new connections – Wednesdays 1pm at Noble Park Community Centre Become a part of the team that cultivates our brand new All Abilities Garden and take care of the wonderful garden designed by members of the disability community for people of all abilities – Tuesdays 1pm at Noble Park Community Centre Come and see stories behind Greater Dandenong’s favourite heritage places through short videos photographs and oral histories from Council and local historical society collections – Wednesdays and Thursdays (excluding public holidays) until 18 May 2025 at Benga Are you retired or semi-retired and would like to stay engaged and connected with others Come along and see if you would like to join Sandown Probus Club participate in the variety of activities and hear guest speakers on a wide range of subjects – 2nd Monday of each month at Club Noble Details: probussouthpacific.org/microsites/sandown or Marion Expressions of interest open for new players across all age groups at Springvale City Soccer Club – Miniroos 7-12 Miniroos and juniors training powered by No Limits Aquila Academy Come along and learn tips and techniques to this line dancing activity Learn it well and learn from scratch from patient instructor – Tuesdays from 5.45pm-6.30pm (school terms only) at Springers Leisure Centre Keysborough; $10 prepaid classes / $15 casual attendance – a five-week package that can be repeated Details: 0412 296 827 or mariepietersz@hotmail.com A warm invitation is extended to anyone in the local community who is aged 55 and over not working full time to visit us with a view to becoming a member at Noble Park Combined Probus Club Meets monthly for morning tea and an interesting guest speaker day trips and extended trips such as to Bright We make sure we promote the Probus core values of ’Friendship Dandenong over 60’s Club (but over 50s are welcome) – Mondays 1pm-4pm (except public holidays) at The Dandenong Club Keysborough & District Multicultural Senior Citizens Inc is an over 55s club with bingo on first second and fourth Tuesday of the month ($3 entry and $1.50 per bingo book) live concerts with professional entertainers on third and fifth Tuesday of the month Thursday ballroom dancing lessons (12.30pm-1pm) and ballroom dancing (1pm-3pm Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Rowley Allan Reserve 352 Cheltenham Road Keysborough Improve fitness and energy levels for good health and wellbeing at this adult exercise group class on Tuesdays and Thursdays gentle aerobics class suitable for all levels Details: 8571 1436 or communityfacilities@cgd.vic.gov.au New members from Dandenong North and Noble Park are sought by the Waverley Gardens Combined Probus Club club members also meet for coffee & listen to a guest speaker – last Tuesday of the month 9.45am-noon at Southern Community Centre Learn how to make your mind your best friend through open-eyed meditation Presented by Bakhtar Community Organisation and The Brahma Kumaris Organisation Adults welcome (Mondays 7pm-9pm) and ladies and retired (Wednesdays 12pm-2.30pm) A 48-year-old man has been charged after a drug raid in Noble Park North on Tuesday 18 June Police say they seized a variety of alleged drugs of dependence precursor drugs of dependence and a longarm firearm Divisional Response Unit and Clandestine Laboratory Unit police officers conducted the morning raid The man was arrested and charged with several drug related offences He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court this year Three shops and two cars caught ablaze in a suspicious ram-raid fire in Noble Park North Victoria Police believe a stolen car was driven into the commercial building and set alight about 2am on Friday 19 July The car was allegedly stolen from Mulgrave on the same night FRV crews had responded to multiple Triple-0 calls finding three single-fronted shops and two cars on fire Twenty-four firefighters employed five pumpers and an aerial unit in an “aggressive attack” on the fire bringing it under control in about 30 minutes The car was rammed inside the music studio and set ablaze causing damages to the office space owned by the music studio landowner and the churro and pizza shop The office space is said to contain crucial business documents 35 years worth of paperworks all turned into piles of ashes in the charred and hollow building Hassan lives just a block down from the shopping strip that comprises a milk bar fish and chips and Don Fernando’s Churros and Pizza “We heard a bang followed by the smell of the smoke We heard individuals run down the street screaming at about 1.50am “I was awake studying for a test which is today (Friday 19 July) Once we saw the lights and heard the sirens we were prompted outside and found the businesses were on fire Thankfully the FRV distinguished it pretty quickly but the damage is done nevertheless.” Theo Andasi has lived in the neighbourhood for the past 15 years and says this is the worst he’s seen “You get robberies but nothing as bad as this The neighbourhood stood on the side to watch on at the scene from a distance as they sent their apologies to Fernando Cianciarulo owner of the Churros and Pizza shop “He’s super distressed,” Hassan said “At this time it is not believed to be linked to any other arson incidents,” a police spokesperson stated CCTV or dashcam footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au A GoFundMe page has been created by Mr Cianciarulo for contributions to continue to provide ‘the best’ pizza and churros to the community gofundme.com/f/help-save-argentinian-pizza-shop-from-arson-attack I Cook Foods owner Ian Cook and current mayor Lana Formoso’s husband and brother have entered the fray of the Greater Dandenong Council elections Cook – who is sueing the council and two officers for alleged malicious prosecution – will run against sitting councillor Phillip Danh in Yarraman Ward Sitting ALP councillor Sophie Tan has been elected unopposed in Noble Park Ward – after the only other candidate Dy Truong withdrew from the race on the final day of nominations Former councillor Peter Brown is contesting the Keysborough Ward seat Others in the running in the ward are South East United president Sinan Akkurt 2020 Labor-leaning candidate Reinaldo Pincheira and Yarraman by-election candidates Melinda Yim and Tevyn Gov (Victorian Socialists) two ALP members Pradeep Hewavitharana and Zahra Haydar Big have joined the contest Sitting ALP councillor Angela Long is defending her seat against Greens councillor Rhonda Garad who has shifted from Keysborough South Ward Dandenong North Ward councillor Milkovic will be up against Daniel Formoso Branka Tomic and ALP member and Dandenong Market bakery-owner Rhonda Tannous Five-time mayor and ALP candidate Jim Memeti will recontest Dandenong Ward He is  opposed by independent Rahima Rizai who had run in the recent Yarraman by-election The candidates are Labor members Alexandra Bryant former councillor Geraldine Gonsalvez and Greens member Isabella Do real estate agent Love Agravante and recent Yarraman by-election candidate Will Billings Springvale Central Ward is the seat of former deputy mayor Richard Lim who had attempted to run in Springvale North but was declared ineligible In the fray are real estate agent Alice Phuong Le Councillor Sean O’Reilly will be again up against 2020 candidate Angela Holl in Springvale North Ward Springvale South Ward councillor Loi Truong will vie for re-election Other candidates are migration agent Thayhorn Yim A grand heritage carnival celebrating Thai Pongal with all-day entertainment for the whole family rides and storytelling.- Saturday January 18 We invite all young adults aged 18-24 years to join us at the Springvale Community Hub for a fun evening of socializing and a chance to make new friends Details: mohlz@icloud.com or greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/events/new-year-new-connections The Australian Nativity Scene (ANS) is in its 21st year on display and is regarded as the nation’s best traditional nativity scene 10.30am-8pm (strictly by appointments only 0432 107 590 and facebook.com/groups/487808127399953 The family behind popular Noble Park North business Don Fernando’s Churros and Pizza is determined to come back stronger after their shop was gutted by a suspicious fire next door Three shops and two cars caught ablaze in a suspicious ram-raid fire at Heyington Crescent about 2am on Friday 19 July has lived and raised his family in the neighbourhood for the past 40 years overall “We were originally supplying churros to the food trucks but 2020 came around – there weren’t that many food trucks They opened up the shop to “give something back to the community” “We’ve been living here for a long time and people always complained there wasn’t anywhere nice to go “It’s like we’re kind of forgotten because we’re not one of the nicest suburbs I suppose.” had just received some renewed buzz as the shopping strip shops started to improve and “clean themselves up.” “We had a goal in mind that people in the community would come around to cheer us on That they would tell us this place was falling apart and you’re turning it into something good “With limited funds and whilst working somewhere else trying to keep the money coming in for the daily expenses We used as much help as we could to get the shop running,” Mr Cianciarulo said My wife really pushed us to make it a nice place for our community We went a year of doing well so it’s sad to see our efforts end up like this.” The business was not covered by insurance making the situation even more dire for the family but Mr Cianciarulo and his son Tobias aren’t ready to let go just yet after only a year in business “We really love this place and what we turned it into It’s going to come back one way or the other,” Tobias said The public seem to have enjoyed the “generous and fresh toppings” of the pizza and the “beautiful churros” as evident by many five-star ratings on Google Reviews With Victoria Police closing off the store as part of its investigation on 19 July the family were unaware of the full extent of damage the half-burnt store sign is missing its ‘Fernando,’ the roller shutter at the main entrance and the entire window is gone exposing a blackened ceiling and wall What used to be a music studio and an office space next door is now a charred hollow building with loose infrastructure hanging Shocked and upset neighbours walked out to comfort the family and passed on their apologies as they looked on at the heartbreaking scene Theo Andasi has been living in the neighbourhood for the past 15 years and says this is the worst incident he’s seen “If we wanted a change to get a pizza or chips we would go to Don Fernando’s and just to even say hello City of Greater Dandenong Council’s executive director of city futures Sanjay Manivasagasivam said council will continue to cooperate with Victoria Police and the business owners “to support them as the investigation continues.” “Our thoughts are with the businesses and community members impacted by this morning’s fire on Heyington Crescent in Noble Park North.” A GoFundMe page has been set up by Mr Cianciarulo which has since garnered half of the goal amount of $10,000 to go towards the renovation of his family store United Firefighters Union has criticised the breakdown of a fire truck as crews extinguished a blaze at a gym in Noble Park North The Dandenong FRV pumper broke down about 90 minutes after the fire at the corner of Overseas Drive and Princes Highway was under control at 12.50am on 14 August it had no impact on the firefighting effort “The appliance was taken for repair and replaced at station.” UFU argues it shows that the fleet is “crumbling” in an “increasingly dangerous” situation the firefighters were pulled out of the building because they effectively had no water The change-over with a replacement truck caused a short delay “Victoria is in the grip of a fire truck crisis and our communities are paying the price,” the UFU posted on social media The FRV spokesperson said “appropriate equipment is deployed to emergencies to protect firefighters and the community” “We continually utilise our full fleet across the state to ensure a high level of availability for emergency response.” FRV has funding for five new platform pumpers in the 2024-25 state budget at a cost of $13.7 million over four years Its fleet of more than 200 firefighting road appliances will be joined by 23 new vehicles that are being built The new vehicles include two rehabilitation units three breathing apparatus support vehicles four heavy rescue vehicles and an ultra large pumper Greater Dandenong Council candidate names and positions were sealed at the ballot draw for the October council elections Cleeland Ward’s sitting ALP councillor Angela Long took third position while Greens rival Rhonda Garad took the “psychological win” first position on the ballot Another ALP member Zahra Haydar Big has taken second position in the same ward saying she’s confident that she has a strong chance to win the seat from the two incumbent councillors This will be her second time running for local elections after her first run at the Yarraman by-election The five-time mayor and ALP member Jim Memeti took out the first position in the draw against Rahima Rizai who also ran at the Yarraman by-election She is the only opposition against Cr Memeti Rizai says the wards needs a fresh face and voice however Cr Memeti’s pool of supporters have already took to social media to vouch for him and display an unwavering support for him If re-elected it’ll be Cr Memeti’s sixth time on Council “It doesn’t matter how many people run against you,” Cr Memeti said ‘I still think you still have to do the hard work and pull the hard yards so I’ll definitely be treating it as if there’s 10 people running against me and hopefully I’ll come out on the top at the end of the elections.” the Noble Park ward sitting councillor Sophie Tan has won the seat with no contest as the only other candidate Dy Truong withdrew from the race on the final day of nominations “I am thrilled & honoured to be re-elected in Noble Park Ward I’ll be declared elected after voting closes on 25 October,” Cr Tan says voters enrolled in Noble Park Ward will not get a ballot pack in the mail this October.” I’ll looking forwards to serve our community for the next four years Other wards without a sitting councillor such as the Keysborough South Keysborough and Springvale Central wards had a lot of new candidates who say they just want to improve the area for good Bachelor of Law student at Victoria University Ajdin Muzur has his hands up to run for the Keysborough South ward The ALP affiliated candidate has lived in Keysborough South for the past 16 years and is very much into politics “I’ve been part of politics for the majority of my life and I thrive in that environment “It’s time for me to give back to the community and that’s a skill set I’ve grown my whole life to make my community thrive.” He’s yet to form an opinion on the “contentious” issue around the Green Wedge and South East Sporting Hub widely reported previously by the Dandenong Journal “As of right now I haven’t fully made up my mind as to which side I sit I want to continue speaking with residents about it There are a lot of people who don’t want the development to happen because of the Green Wedge.” She has raised a son as a single mother when the ward was “very quiet” compared to the bustling roads we see now Ms Tomic says local council shouldn’t be muddled up with politics “People should run independently and not act like politicians There should be no politics here just normal residents who want to improve the standards of living.” Ballot pack will be mailed out to residents on Monday 7 October and voting will close at noon on Friday 25 October Noble Park North among top performers as median swellsDavid Aidone For just over Greater Dandenong’s new median house price you could have bought the four-bedroom home at 3 Ellerslie Court ALMOST one in every two houses sold across the Greater Dandenong area in the past year was excluded from first-home buyer assistance A surge in the region’s median house price revealed in the data from CoreLogic’s February Market Trends report showed prices rose 15.1 per cent in the 12 months to November The median house price now sits at $598,000 The figure is just $2000 short of the $600,000 threshold for first-home buyer assistance from the government The rise was the second highest recorded in metropolitan Melbourne over the 12 month period It equated to a $78,500 lift in the median house price which covers sought after suburbs of Richmond and Fitzroy Great Dandenong’s strong performance means there are now no longer any suburbs with a median below $500,000 Noble Park North’s median house price swelled by $72,000 to $554,000 while in Dandenong a 10.7 per cent rise produced a new figure of $520,000 Dandenong North was the strongest performer of the three growing from $475,000 to $550,000 — a 15.7 per cent lift 10 Warbla St, Dandenong North sold for Dandenong North’s new median house price of $550,000 The three bedroom home was positioned on 680sq m SEE SUBURB PROFILES: Dandenong, Dandenong North, Noble Park North Harcourts Dandenong director Daniel Farrugia said despite the rise homesellers were not finding it difficult to stay within the region Mr Farrugia added those who were selling tended to want to move further out to areas such as Drouin where they could buy a home on a larger block He explained the price growth could be attributed to homebuyers being priced out of suburbs closer to Melbourne’s CBD Mr Farrugia noted that Dandenong North’s strong growth was its increasing popularity among first-home buyers “They’re choosing it over suburbs such as Rowville and Mulgrave,” Mr Farrugia said “It’s largely an owner-occupier demographic that lives there.” Mr Farrugia added while there was a slight increase in developer activity near central hubs such as Dandenong he would not attribute it to broader price growth A major industrial investment with development upside at Noble Park North – between Springvale and Dandenong – has hit the market With four adjoining warehouses containing 13,502 square metres – about 10pc of which is offices – and 52 basement car parks the property has been leased to Oji Fibre Solutions on a lease expiring in 2027 with a two-year option the 1.95 hectare holding could be considered for redevelopment with the potential for the existing buildings to be extended or subdivided or knocked down and replaced with a business park or large Multi-level buildings could also be contemplated – the property being in the Greater Dandenong municipality and near Dandenong which has a sub one per cent industrial vacancy rate and limited land available for redevelopment Lemon Baxter’s Chris Chartres and Paul O’Sullivan are the agents local investments have been selling at six per cent yields which would price 440 Princes Hwy at $16-$17 million “The property is leased to one of Australasia’s leading manufacturers of pulp paper and wood-fibre based packaging solutions,” Mr “The long-term lease agreement further demonstrates the tenant’s commitment to the property and highlights its reliability as a secure and lucrative investment opportunity,” he added (story continues below) Melbourne’s most exclusive industrial precinct outside of the inner-city The suburb is also near the spaghetti junction connecting the Monash Freeway to Eastlink “This strategic location allows for effortless accessibility to major arterial roads making it a highly desirable commercial location,” Mr “The location is further enhanced by its proximity to local amenity including major food retailers and retail parklands and Noble Park train station” Elsewhere in the suburb, in 2020, Quintessential Equity sold an industrial investment at 180 Browns Road for $14.7m – more than twice the ($6.8m) price it paid Boral in 2013 Also, three years ago, AFR Rich 200 member the Hannan family banked $15.06m from a warehouse, 504-520 Princes Hwy which had not long earlier been vacated by PMP Group Several major projects are underway at Dandenong and Dandenong South too including an intermodal terminal – about four kilometres away from 440 Princes Hwy A female passenger has died after a rental truck crashed into a pole at Noble Park North Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives say the truck was travelling north along Jacksons Road just before 3am on Monday 12 February when it left the roadway and struck a pole He was found by the Canine Unit near the intersection of Elonera Road and Princes Highway Noble Park “The exact circumstances surrounding the crash are yet to be determined and investigations remain ongoing,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said Any information or dashcam footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au A Hollywood megastar has been spotted at a Noble Park North play centre which was transformed into the set of an upcoming blockbuster Liam Neeson was snapped being escorted to his car from the Lollipos Playland on Wednesday 11 November after a long day of filming scenes for his upcoming movie Paparazzi descended on the Elonera Road property following rumours the 68-year-old Northern Irish actor would be in town for the three day shoot The Taken star arrived in Melbourne recently to film the $43 million action thriller after a stint of hotel quarantine in Sydney Neeson is set to play the main character in Blacklight which is about a “troubled off-the-books fixer for the FBI tasked with pulling undercover agents out of dangerous situations” directed and produced by Ozark co-creator Mark Williams is set to provide a welcome boost to the struggling local film industry Creative Industries Minister Danny Pearson unveiled a $33.8 million package to bring to life more international and local films in Victoria “It’s great for our industry … this is going to make sure our industry can get back to work,” Mr Pearson said Production will now move to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre with Neeson expected to remain in Melbourne for the next six weeks A release date for the film is yet to be confirmed but it’s understood to be scheduled for late 2021 Quintessential Equity has sold a 2.4 hectare industrial investment in Melbourne’s Noble Park North for $14.7 million The commercial investor and developer, which provides syndicate opportunities for wholesale buyers, paid $6.8 million for 180 Browns Road in 2013 About 27 kilometres south east of the city the property includes 9552 square metre of gross floor area inclusive of a 546 sqm office the asset gives the new owner a 4000 sqm vacant tract of land which could be replaced longer term with another industrial investment Infrabuild extended its facility in 2016 before renewing its lease Quintessential Equity chief executive officer Russell Bullen said the location “in one of Melbourne’s premier industrial areas” resulted in the property being well received Quintessential Equity is looking forward to another strong year as we expand our portfolio in Victoria and interstate.” Quintessential Equity getting around Victoria A month prior to listing 180 Browns Road, Quintessential Equity was appointed by the City of Greater Geelong to develop a landmark $200 million mixed use complex which will contain a new council headquarters The number of properties sold in North Melbourne Keilor and Noble Park North surged in 2021 with “more affordable suburbs” expected to remain popular with buyers this year middle and outer ring locations jumped by as much as 129 per cent in the last year — more than double that recorded in December 2020 — new PropTrack data from realestate.com.au shows Noble Park North topped the growth list with 112 houses sold — up from 49 the previous year Numbers in North Melbourne spiked from 49 to 103 RELATED: How the post-pandemic property market is taking shape Regions where overseas buyers want to live $20bn social housing election call The spacious townhouse has two bedrooms and one bathroom Knoxfield (60 to 121) and Blackburn South (79 to 159) also had unprecedented growth Melbourne had an increase of 70.5 per cent in the number of properties sold year on year — the second highest increase of any city or region in Australia The Northern Territory saw a 75.1 per cent rise in sales activity in that same period PropTrack chief economist Cameron Kusher said Covid-19 related lockdowns and record low interest rates had caused buyers to funnel money into property across the metro area especially those impacted by the loss of investors and international buyers first-home buyer-friendly suburbs would have more activity in 2022 “Demand is slowly coming back in the inner city market,” Mr Kusher said “And I think the middle ring suburbs you’ll see a big pick-up “They will continue to be quite popular and that’s where a lot of the new supply is too.” The property has three bedrooms and two bathrooms Keilor was named as one of the top sales growth areas But Mr Kusher said he expected sales numbers to dip this year with less steam in the market “There’s an expectation that early this year there will be more listings around so there won’t be as much urgency,” he said “People will take a bit longer (to buy) and they also have other things to spend their money on now And there’s going to be an overall slowdown in the market too Alexkarbon Real Estate director Charles Bongiovanni — who is currently selling 357 Flemington Road, North Melbourne — said changes to rental tenancy laws coupled with a decline in university students needing a rental had prompted many homeowners in the suburb to sell “We found that last year a lot of terrace homes we listed were the older demographic selling out,” Mr Bongiovanni said “They had either lived there and wanted to downsize or were investors who had held them for so long they might have put their children through university “But there is always going to be strong demand for properties in North Melbourne.” Mr Bongiovanni said traditionally about 67 per cent of the suburb’s market was made up of tenants — but the recent rise in sales meant more owner-occupiers had moved in Point Cook recorded the most overall sales for the year with 1341 houses sold while Melbourne (1113 sales) was the best performer for units SUBURBS WITH THE BIGGEST YEAR ON YEAR GROWTH IN SALES All figures based on the year to December 2021 MORE: Ex-Socceroo gives Research home the boot Baller power couple list swish Brighton pad Toorak mega mansion sells for $22m-plus Greater Dandenong councillor Lana Formoso is no stranger to getting her gloves dirty on Clean Up Australia Day But Cr Formoso’s plans to lead a litter-collection blitz in all 26 parks and reserves in her Noble Park North Ward have been stalled by Covid As she and her family embark on Covid isolation she hopes to embark on the clean-up mission seven days later on 13 March her family of four toiled sunrise to sunset collecting “eight massive bags of rubbish” from about half of those parks She is hoping more helpers will join her to spruce up the ward’s open spaces this Sunday and to grow it into a larger community event year upon year “I’m certainly conscious about leaving the least environmental footprint I can “I thought it would be a great way to get the community involved and focus on keeping our ward clean.” who has volunteered for Clean Up Australia Day for much of her life has also encouraged her councillor colleagues to set up clean-up teams in their wards for the day Cr Formoso’s team will take part in a citizen science project collecting and tallying the number of discarded facemasks and other litter removed from the environment EPA Victoria’s Chief Environmental Scientist said discarded face masks have gone from a largely unknown litter problem to being seen in streets “It’s difficult to know just how many are polluting our streets waterways and beaches but they are now a widespread problem and with their plastic content they are not just going to decay and go away,” Prof Taylor said “It’s critical that we rid the environment of discarded face masks by taking part in Clean Up Australia Day and reporting mask litter wherever we find it.” more than three billion single-use masks were thrown out across the globe every day contributing to a significant portion of pandemic-related litter entering the environment Plastics in disposable masks can take up to 450 years to break down and researchers have warned that littered single-use masks could be releasing chemical pollutants and nano-plastics into the environment Over the past two years there have been disturbing cases of seabirds and wildlife found tangled up in carelessly discarded single-use face masks Clean Up Australia chair Pip Kiernan said the next generation of personal protective equipment (PPE) should have the lowest environmental footprint possible “Urgency is required to be more creative in the design of these products with the environment right up there in our thinking,” she said “This concept of product stewardship – when we design a product and consider what happens to it at the end of its life – needs to be addressed at the outset We need innovation in the design of PPE so that it’s as safe as it can be but kinder on the environment.” Registering for Clean Up Australia Day covers volunteers with public liability insurance and allows them to participate in the Citizen Science project It’s suggested to bring gardening or kitchen gloves and a rubbish bag to join in on the day go to cleanupaustraliaday.org.au/fundraisers/lanaformoso/noble-park-north-ward has invested in the creative ambitions of its students with the opening and blessing of new and refurbished facilities media room and amphitheatre have re-energised the learning opportunities available to all students ‘Our task has been to provide our students with facilities that they can continue to be educated in and ‘You can achieve anything in life that you put your mind to.’ Deputy Mayor of the City of Greater Dandenong and foundation principal Paul D’Astoli joined the school community to celebrate the latest chapter in the growth of the college Bishop Anthony Ireland blessed the new learning spaces as well as a lift which provides accessibility to the college’s auditorium ‘The world meets here at Nazareth’ ‘and you enrich our society and our Catholic community with the faith and experience that your families have brought with them from around the world’ Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) respectfully acknowledges the traditional custodians of the Kulin Nation © Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools Ltd Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer  |  School Search Homicide detectives have released images of three males wanted in relation to a fatal shooting in Noble Park in July Police also released CCTV of three vehicles at the scene at the time Emergency services were called to a unit on Corrigan Road about 6am on Monday 11 July after reports of a man being shot A 36-year-old Noble Park North man died at the scene Victoria Police Homicide Squad detectives say several people ran from the unit shortly after the shooting and were chased by another group An alleged fight then broke out on the road shortly after Investigators have released digital composite images of three males wanted for questioning The first man is believed to be Asian appearance medium build and wearing an all-black tracksuit with a black shoulder bag The second man is believed to be about 175 centimetres medium build and wearing a black mask covering most of his face The third man is believed to be Asian appearance with a skinny build and wearing a grey hooded jacket and carrying a dark green backpack Police are also investigating the identities of the drivers of three vehicles heading towards Corrigan Road prior to the shooting a silver Mercedes and an unidentified silver or grey sedan were captured on CCTV at the time The silver Mercedes was captured returned shortly after the shooting and travelling away from the area Detective Inspector Dean Thomas of the Homicide Squad urged the people involved to come forward as well as anyone with information on their identities but we really need to speak to these three men and the occupants of those two vehicles to find out more “We’re hopeful that the investigation can provide some answers to the victims’ families about why this has occurred.” Any information to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au A woman has died after a rental truck crashed into a pole in Melbourne's south east.  The Budget rental truck was travelling north along Jacksons Road in Noble Park North when it veered off the road and crashed into a pole just before 3am on Monday.  Emergency services rushed to the crash site and found a female passenger dead at the scene.  The 32-year-old male driver fled the crash but was tracked down a short time later by the police canine squad in Noble Park near the intersection of Elonera Road and Princes Highway.  Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are at the scene and are working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the crash. The driver is in custody and is assisting police with their inquiries. No charges have been laid.  Motorists are being advised to avoid the area or allow for extra travel time for detours as Jackson Road remains closed in both directions.  Anyone who saw the truck prior to the crash, has dashcam footage or information is being urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.   Major terror attack 'was just HOURS away' before it was foiled by the special forces and police:... Victim of acid attack 'plotted by his ex-partner who teamed up with a gang' dies in hospital six... We are trapped in unsellable newbuild homes after a £52m dual carriageway was built on our... Horror as $4.5M influencer-laden yacht SINKS off Miami... after glam women made a rookie maritime... Pub is forced to pay family £75,000 after wrongly accusing them of 'dine and dash' over £150... How Meghan's biggest cheerleader brokered Harry's disastrous BBC interview - three months after... Woman dead and three others including a child injured after car ploughed into pedestrians: Man, 49,... 'It's a rather giant f*** you.' Royal insider's furious reaction to Meghan's Instagram salvo as... Woman who was missing for more than 60 years is found 'alive and well' decades after vanishing... American tourist suffers horrific fate while attempting to capture selfie at Rome's Colosseum The towns being ruined by day-tripper invasions. Selfie-loving tourists cause traffic hell and the... Revealed: The reason behind Fred & Rose West kids' bitter family rift as siblings have 'nothing to... How can I see the Red Arrows' iconic flypast? Map reveals when and where planes will be visible over... Hamas hostage, 23, 'raped by personal trainer influencer in her own home after being released' King, Queen, William and Kate honour selfless devotion of Britain's wartime heroes as they lead... Husband of British mother, 65, who was knifed to death in French village says her affair is a... Melbourne: Woman dies in rental truck crashCommenting on this article has endedNewest{{#isModerationStatus}}{{moderationStatus}} free activities to celebrate Dandenong Creek Featuring a Welcome to Country by Traditional Custodians Bring your own reusable water bottle to refill at the event Parking via the entrance at 114 Somerset Drive Come and experience Africa for a day with artist/musician Ousmane Sonko and members of the ‘Kairo Family Band’ Two Adunta drumming workshops at 10am and 12pm Bookings: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/adunta-west-african-afternoon-tickets-826834864337?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwAR3Ijd5YFCNYBIDeL1zWa-ZFyG3yKv-sq0rBYbvQYhIREMCNeHB6UndkUk0_aem_AczbBzNGSuiaXEQVCH_drjs6O9cz69s6oSHQ5ncGOizt304nvpMLFxiF2vGjCRf5NRFhTB1Y-vqj7u9TJ5khw-F8 Football Australia is bringing a free clinic to Dandenong City Soccer Club for girls aged 4-11 years Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the field join us for an hour to revel in the joy of football – Saturday 13 April 10.30am-11.30am at 2 Baden Powell Drive To register go to greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/events/football-australia-play-football-hub Reunion for over-65s who have lived or worked in Noble Park Springvale Urban Harvest is a free monthly swap event of excess homegrown produce and gardening extras – Saturday 13 April 1pm-3pm at Springvale Community Hub Join us for a community clothes swap at the Springvale Community Hub in good condition and ready to display on the day Join City of Greater Dandenong’s cultural heritage team on a walk to learn the story of the magnificent trees in Dandenong Park at a steady pace with time to ask questions and enjoy the park A delicious afternoon tea will be provided Please note that there is an incline on this walk 1.30pm-4pm starting and concluding at Heritage Hill Bookings required at greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/greater-dandenong-council/events/talk-and-walk-dandenong-park-and-heritage-hill-gardens Exhibition on display until Saturday 8 June at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre reflects and recognises the significance of trees in the local landscape over time and the timber industry that grew the local community It marks 80 years since community forest planting began at Greaves Reserve local historical society collections and the council’s civic and cultural heritage collection Entertainers include Marcia Rae (16 April) and Rob Foenander (30 April) Membership for remainder of F/Y 23/24 until 31 May is $5 Hallam Friends of the Red Cross invites you for a chat or a cupper who like to chat and help people in the community By raising funds to assist people in the community who need assistance 10.30am at the Hallam Community Learning Centre harmonises body & soul & connects to meaning 2.30pm–3.30pm followed by a cuppa at The Open Door Details: 9791 8664 or Theopendoor@ssjg.org.au 9.30am-10.30am at Noble Park Community Centre Noble Park; $5 per class or $40 for 10 classes Details: programs@nobleparkcc.org.au or 9547 5801 Held weekly for people to learn the basic skills of concentration Meditation may benefit people with spiritual and mental health support 2.30pm-3pm at Dandenong Hospital’s Sacred Space Thousands of homes are without power in Greater Dandenong with multiple felled trees and floods from wild storms on the afternoon of Tuesday 13 February Two people in a car were reportedly trapped by a fallen tree at Lysterfield Lake Park about 4pm Three Narre Warren North CFA units have responded there was widespread reporting of trees down across Greater Dandenong including major arterials such as Springvale Road and Stud Road According to United Energy’s outage website More than 20,000 customers in the region had no electricity Dandenong Oasis reported that it was closed due to the blackout Power was estimated to be restored by 10pm The annual festival has stalls featuring Australian Animal Protection Society Greater Dandenong Environment Group as well as council info on environmental emergency management kitchen food art and stage show by local green thumb Doug the Gardener at 11.30am – Sunday 25 February 10am-3pm at Dandenong Market Hallam Friends of the Red Cross meets on the third Tuesday of the month If you feel like dropping in for chat or a cupper who like to chat and raise funds to assist people in the community who need assistance 10.30am at Hallam Community Learning Centre The next film of Greater Dandenong’s Open Air Movies series features American documentary Chasing Coral (2017) (PG) Free activities provided by The Dolphin Research Institute Get rid of any larger unwanted household goods suitable for donating or electronic and household goods suitable for recycling During February the Maralinga Community Garden will be open every Saturday in celebration of Sustainability month and the Greater Dandneong Sustainability Festival at the Dandenong Market on Sunday 25 February and view our eclectic collection of nature items 0409 003 652 or bryan.hunter@education.vic.gov.au Learn about the Islamic faith and the diverse Muslim cultural norms Venues include Emir Sultan Mosque Dandenong Islamic Education and Welfare Association of Dandenong (Hallam Masjid) Young Muslims of Australia Markaz Dandenong and Albanian Sakie Islamic Society of Dandenong limericks and other reading material over a cup of coffee in homely setting Bookings essential: 9791 8664 or Theopendoor@ssjg.org.au Enjoy a day of free entertainment for the whole family Funded through the Noble Park Revitalisation Project Greater Dandenong Neighbourhood Watch safety information session with Detective Sergeant John Curnow (38 years in Victoria Police Southern Metro Crime Squad) and Dectective Sergeant Katie Johnston (16 years in Victoria Police including Springvale police and South Metro Region Metro Squad) 7pm for 7.30pm start at Paddy O’Donoghue Centre (Ample parking rear of centre off Frank Street) live concerts with professional entertainers on third Tuesday of the month Concert entertainers include Alex Matthews (20 February) and Col Perkins (3 March) Membership for remainder of F/Y 23/24 is $5 a centre for creative spirituality without fear or judgement We run a variety of weekly workshops – open to all: Tai Chi / Gentle Movement Meditation (Mondays 2pm-2.20pm) Awareness Meditation (Mondays 2.30pm-3.30pm) Centering Prayer Meditation (Tuesdays 2.30pm-3.30pm) Art of Soul (Wednesdays 11.30am-1.30pm) and Guided Imagery Meditation (Wednesdays 2.30pm-3pm) including Line Dancing – Thursday 15 February 10.30am-11.30am (First & third Thursday of month) Artwork locations include Walker Street Gallery and various venues around central Dandenong – until Friday 1 March at Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre Yesteryear: A Glimpse into Greater Dandenong’s Past This exhibition explores our region’s changing landscape and rich historical narratives through selected artworks images and objects from Council’s Civic and Cultural Heritage Collection and local historical society collections During an arduous clean-up after last week’s destructive storm it took days to restore power and clear fallen trees throughout Greater Dandenong More than 20,000 customers in the region were without power after ferocious gusts wreaked havoc on Tuesday afternoon 13 February several hundred remained off the grid with some estimated to wait as long as Sunday Greater Dandenong SES depot was hit by the black-out as it responded to more than 280 requests for help – mainly to clear fallen trees on roads and buildings thanks to generators and manual back-up processes “This is the most severe weather I’ve seen in the past decade,” unit controller Michael Prior said Noble Park North and Springvale – including the corner of Stud Road and Monash Freeway as well as Springvale Road “A lot of traffic lights were out on Tuesday afternoon and night which made it dangerous for our crews to respond.” All 40 of the SES unit’s volunteers were on deck – some working up to 14-hour shifts Even with the help of neighbouring SES units it took two days to work through the mountain of jobs including a hand-made card from a pre-school and several offers of food and coffee Greater Dandenong mayor Lana Formoso was among the trained volunteers clearing numerous trees with chainsaws She was in a crew of up to three that responded about 25 callouts Everyone has been working around the clock Two men have been charged and a large quantity of drugs allegedly seized in a police raid in Noble Park A warrant was executed at a property in Arnold Street just after 5am on Thursday 26 October before three men were arrested A 42-year-old Noble Park man was charged with trafficking heroin possess suboxone and deal property suspected of being the proceeds of crime He was remanded to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court that day A 58-year-old Noble Park man was charged with possess methylamphetamine He was bailed to appear at Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 14 March A 39-year-old Noble Park North man was interviewed by police and was released without charge Casey Council has welcomed a 22 per cent jump in population driven by migration between 2016 and 2021 while the Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage index score fell from seven to five According to the council’s report on its 2022/23 Performance Report increased disadvantage could be attributed to changing economic conditions and their relatively greater impact on households within the municipality – a result of Casey households particular income The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas (SEIFA) data for 2021 showed Casey’s relative score was at five among Victorian councils Casey Council connected communities manager Callum Pattie said Casey’s population has underwent a rapid demographic change since 2016 we would expect to see some shift in socio-economic characteristics of the population,” he said there was a 22 per cent increase in the population driven by domestic and overseas migration particularly those looking for more affordable housing in Casey’s growth areas “Council monitors local socio-economic conditions and responds to community needs through advocacy Among the most disadvantaged suburbs receiving a score of one were Doveton Other suburbs in the lower bracket with a score of two to four included Hallam Suburbs with a mix of disadvantage and advantage with a score of five to seven included Lynbrook South-eastern suburbs at the top of the list with a score of eight to 10 included Cranbourne South According to the council’s 2022/23 Performance Report council was focusing its action on being relevant for the emerging future the future holds great prosperity for governments that can identify and confront the conditions influencing their local economy but holds great risk for those who get it wrong,” the report read we commit to thinking and acting differently to ensure our long-term resilience council will become a future-ready organisation that can create more resilient and empowered communities connections and places whilst delivering on our future Council Plan and Community Vision.” A second man has been charged with murder over the fatal shooting of a Noble Park North man in July Homicide Squad detectives charged a 38-year-old Springvale man who had been recently charged with affray and intentionally causing injury over the matter He was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 29 November was also charged with murder and remanded in custody Police allege the 36-year-old victim Tommy Loulanting was fatally shot at a unit on Corrigan Road police made a public appeal seeking three men for questioning over the shooting Police say they are continuing their investigation A man has been charged over a fatal truck crash in Noble Park North on 12 February Police say a rental truck crashed into a pole on Jacksons Road about 3am Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives charged a 32-year-old man from Forge Creek with dangerous driving causing death failing to render assistance and driving while disqualified He was refused bail and will appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 14 February Any information and dashcam footage to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au At Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) we’re growing minds and futures to help each child walk a path of great meaning that enables them to shine We celebrate the achievements of all students knowing that they will enrich the world and enjoy a future filled with purpose and impact Six of our schools were ranked in the top 100 best schools for Median VCE Score: We’re proud to share that the following students were awarded dux of their school: Tennis courts and a new science centre have been officially opened and blessed at Nazareth College following the ‘Opening of the School Year’ Mass the science rooms offer cutting-edge technology for students at every level The tennis courts complement the college’s School of Excellence program to foster skill development and improve the level of student participation in sport ‘Today we bless our new learning spaces and we ask our Lord to make them a place of growth where each and every one in our community can explore and utilise their talents’ Another Germany based manufacturing giant has bought a Melbourne property to expand – this time in the south east electrical products supplier Wago has paid just over $8.4 million for 67-71 Geddes Street the improvement contains 2267 sqm – the bulk (1613 sqm) as warehousing Stephanie Archer and Jonathan Mercuri were the agents Mulgrave is 21 kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD Wago will relocate from Noble Park North – five kilometres south east again – a c1663 sqm industrial building on similar sized land it bought for $3.63m in 2021 (story continues below) nearly half WAGO’s c9000 workforce is in Germany The Mulgrave deal come a week since we reported the Australian arm of Wolfertschwenden based packaging manufacturer Multivac outlaid $17.25m for an office/warehouse at Keilor Park that property was purchased following the launch of a leasing campaign Share via...Gift this articleSubscribe to gift this article Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe The Colley family has made its mark in the Goondiwindi region in Southern Queensland after buying the highly regarded Trevanna Downs aggregation for almost $25 million The near-5000-hectare dryland cropping property at Billa Billa is about two hour’s drive north of the Colleys’ Noble Park Aggregation at Moree in Northern NSW SaveLog in or Subscribe to save articleShareCopy link Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe. Follow the topics, people and companies that matter to you. Read MoreRural propertyFarmingLatest In CommercialFetching latest articles An unemployed single father faces a bill of more than $13,500 after his pair of unregistered dogs attacked a woman and her German Shepherd in Noble Park North pleaded guilty to his male pit-bull cross and female Staffordshire terrier cross being at large while injuring the pair of victims on 12 July Ohayon’s dogs had been kept in an illegally inhabited property at Jacksons Road at the time Dandenong Magistrates’ Court heard on 7 October the victim saw the dogs run and attack her German Shepherd Her dog suffered multiple wounds to its legs and hind quarters the owner was bitten by one of Ohayon’s dogs on the thigh She screamed for help from bystanders to separate the canines Prosecutor Bec Goddard from the City of Greater Dandenong said the German Shepherd’s injuries were legally classified as “serious” She said council officers discovered Ohayon’s dogs behind a driveway gate secured with bike locks on the day of the attack The yard was riddled with several areas where the dogs could escape The next day the “aggressive” dogs were seized by officers They have since been locked in a pound for 174 days Ohayon was ordered to pay the pound fees as well as $2670 compensation for the victim’s veterinary costs and $129.30 statutory costs to the council He was further convicted and fined $2000 for the criminal charges Magistrate Suzette Dootjes said she took into account Ohayon’s financial position his guilty pleas as well as the seriousness of the attack in setting the fine “It must have been frightening for the woman who saw your dogs come and attack her dog Ohayon surrendered his dogs to Greater Dandenong Council The dogs were previously registered to a Narre Warren address with City of Casey Ohayon pleaded not guilty to further charges related to his dogs allegedly biting a kelpie in Narre Warren on 1 July Congratulations to education support staff from MacKillop Catholic Regional College, Werribee, and Nazareth College who have been recognised in the 2023 Australian Teacher Aide of the Year Awards These prestigious national awards provide an opportunity for schools to showcase the outstanding work of their teacher aides and recognise their positive impact on student learning and wellbeing The learning support officer (LSO) team at MacKillop Catholic Regional College is a finalist in the 2023 Australian Teacher Aide Team of the Year Awards nominated by Director of Learning Diversity forms an essential part of the Learning Diversity team at the college and the LSOs are crucial in ensuring that all students can experience success: socially Mr Stead said: ‘The role of the MacKillop LSOs cannot be underestimated in assisting students’ wellbeing and learning They provide valuable support to both students and teachers from individualised instruction to creating positive classroom culture.’ The Nazareth College Learning Diversity team LSOs were highly commended in the 2023 Australian Teacher Aide Team of the Year Awards The LSOs were nominated by Instructional Leader – Learning Diversity and Engagement for their positive impact on student learning through direct intervention groups ultimately reducing the number of students requiring additional support The winners will be announced on Thursday 31 August as part of Australian Teacher Aide Appreciation Week. Further details about the awards can be found on the Australian Teacher Aide website Nazareth College Ms Mackay: ‘There was very exciting news last week when the winners of the Jacaranda Writing Competition were announced This competition was open to all current teachers and students in Years 7–12 of Australian secondary schools chose to enter this competition as an extension project in the Year 8 Laurel, English Creative Writing Unit Julie has been awarded a winner’s certificate a $200 cash prize and her story will be published in next year’s Year 7 Jacaranda textbook We are incredibly proud of Julie and congratulate her on this wonderful achievement.’ Julie: ‘It was an honour to win First Place for the Short Story (Years 7–9) category of the Jacaranda Writing Competition This was my first writing competition and I am glad I gave it a go despite the intervening tests during the week of writing that story My short story details the journey of a young Northern Vietnamese girl looking for her father after he disappears to go to war This story was very close to my heart as I am Vietnamese Some of the main character’s experiences are actually inspired by my own experiences during my trip to Vietnam I am just grateful to win this prize and would really like to thank Ms Mackay because this would not have been possible without her advice and encouragement.’ It’s on for ‘young’ and ‘old’ for Yarraman by-election favourite Phillip Danh The ALP member and Monash law student has flagged opposition to outsourcing Greater Dandenong Council’s home and aged care services as well as prioritizing youth issues as his main issues “I’m a big proponent against privatization of home care and aged care services “We need to get these bread and butter decisions right “There’s a lot of cost of living pressures so even the whiff of something like this happening is a cause of great concern “People want to know for sure that these important services aren’t going anywhere.” have outsourced home aged care services and cut staff as a result of a new Commonwealth Home Support Program Greater Dandenong is publicly yet to decide whether to continue in-house support for residents over 65 or with disabilities Danh also wants to ensure young people are engaged to ensure community safety This includes prosperity and local jobs for the next generation He’s gained inspiration from knocking on hundreds of doors talking with local voters about “bread and butter” issues He wants a council “re-focus” on rubbish as well as grants for sport clubs and volunteer groups His political pedigree includes serving as an electorate officer for federal MPs Julian Hill and the late Peta Murphy who died of breast cancer last year she worked her arse off even on weekends.” Danh worked mainly in “refugee advocacy” and helping in complex immigration matters for the “largest Afghan population in the country” I was learning how to listen and to understand their situation.” While Hill was “neutral” in the Yarraman campaign “put your face out there” and “talk to as many voters as possible” Danh also assisted at pre-poll centres and doorknocking during the successful Mulgrave by-election campaign for Labor MP Eden Foster Foster’s election led to her resigning from the Yarraman Ward council seat he came within 90 votes of winning Keysborough Ward “I think I’m someone who can bring a new energy on the council “The current (councillor) demographic is quite old