Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 27th April 2021 by Star Weekly

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27 APRIL, 2021

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Early years hub funded A new $6.8 million early learning centre and community hub will be built in Maddingley after the state government announced it would contribute $3.5 million for the project. Earmarked for a site next to a proposed primary school on McCormacks Road, the Maddingley West Early Years and Community Hub will offer kindergarten for three-and-four-year-olds, maternal and child health consulting and a shared room for occasional care and playgroups, as well as family services consulting spaces and community rooms for programs for young people and seniors. Buninyong MP Michaela Settle visited Darley Early Years Hub last Thursday to announce that the state government will chip in $3.5 million for the project, the remainder being funded by Moorabool council. The council has been pushing for funding assistance to help meet the booming population growth in the Maddingley area. Council figures show there were 377 children aged up to four years old living in Maddingley last year, a figure expected to rise by almost 60 kids across the next decade. The council will now start work on a detailed design for the centre. Buninyong MP Michaela Settle, Moorabool councillor Rod Ward and Matilda, 4, with Renee Tomson and eight-week-old Eli. (Damjan Janevski) 234710_03

Benjamin Millar

Melton population soars By Benjamin Millar Melton has been officially recognised as Victoria’s second fastest-growing population hotspot, surging by almost five per cent in just 12 months to more than 180,000 residents. Recently released Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows the City of Melton’s population grew at 4.6 per cent in 2019-20, driven by a boom in Melton South and the Rockbank area. Rockbank and Mount Cottrell grew by 29 per cent or 2356 people, behind only Mickleham in Melbourne’s outer north which grew by 33 per

cent. Melton South increased by 2787 people – a 9.1 per cent rise. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said such rapid growth places heavy pressure on health services, schools, roads and public transport, prompting calls for more state and federal government support in meeting the increased demand. “These services and infrastructure generally arrive after residential growth, which means we’re always playing catch up,” she said. “As a council, our role is to help the other levels of government understand the challenges and gaps that exist locally and help secure their

investment in our city.” Projections predict rapid population growth until 2051, ultimately tipping over the half million mark – larger than Canberra’s current population. Growth will be spread across the municipality, but most heavily concentrated between the eastern corridor and Melton township. Cr Majdlik cited a serious shortage in local access to basic health services, mental health services and family violence services as a concern, as well as a limited bus network forcing residents to rely on their cars. She said more state and federal investment

is needed for job-boosting “transformational projects” including the Melton Hospital and Western Intermodal Freight Precinct, as well as the Western and Melton highway upgrades, Western Rail Plan, and the Outer Metropolitan Ring. “These sorts of projects don’t just mean better access to health care, education, and services, they also translate into local job creation and a better lifestyle for our residents,” she said. “Local jobs growth is not keeping up with residential growth, and two thirds of our local workforce leave the municipality for work every day.”

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3 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

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Gastro sweeps through childcare By Benjamin Millar Authorities are urging families to help put the brakes on a gastro outbreak that has torn through almost 400 Victorian childcare centres this year, including seven across Melton. The viral gastroenteritis outbreak has already impacted 389 childcare centres across the state so far in 2021 – up by more than 140 in the past month and four times more active than the long-term average. Victoria’s executive director for communicable disease, Dr Bruce Bolam, said

childcare workers, children and their families all had a role to play in limiting the spread of the highly infectious virus. Dr Bolam said “good old-fashioned handwashing” with soap and water is still the best defence against the outbreak, as alcohol-based sanitisers that have helped tackle coronavirus are much less effective against bugs such as norovirus. “Gastroenteritis can spread quickly through settings such as early childhood education and care services, where children play and interact closely with each other and can readily spread

their bugs,” Dr Bolam said. “It is important that early childhood services have good hygiene practices in place and to respond quickly with thorough cleaning if any children become ill.” Children need to be taught and reminded of the need for handwashing, Dr Bolam said, and families should keep affected children at home until 48 hours after they recover. “A good old-fashioned scrub with soap and warm water is the best way to remove the gastro virus from our hands and prevent passing it on to infect others.”

Viral gastroenteritis symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and fever, as well as abdominal pain, headache and muscle aches. They can take up to three days to develop and usually last between one or two days, sometimes longer. In rare cases it can develop into much more serious illness. Anyone recovering from gastroenteritis or living in an affected household should avoid visiting hospitals, early childhood services and aged care facilities to avoid spreading the infection to those most vulnerable.

Parklets pop up Outdoor dining is being taken to the streets in Bacchus Marsh and Ballan under a new pop-up ‘parklet’ trial. Two of the parklets are being installed in Ballan this Tuesday and two more will be dropped into Bacchus Marsh on Thursday in a bid to boost dining numbers at local businesses hit hard by last year’s lengthy COVID-19 lockdown. After receiving state government funding for the initiative, Moorabool council’s economic development team asked the area’s hospitality venues to submit expressions of interest for a pop-up parklet trial. Fabulous Flower Co owner Silvia Green said she jumped at the chance to have one of the parklets installed across two parking spaces in front of her Inglis Street shop, which serves take-away coffee and cakes in addition to the floristry side of the business. “I’ve seen them in Melbourne city and

Ballarat and I just thought it was a good opportunity to try here,” she said. “I think they’re going to be brilliant for Ballan, it’s becoming quite a little destination for people.” Another parklet is being installed further along Inglis Street in front of Zest Café. Bacchus Marsh parklets will be installed in front of Fossils Espresso on Grant Street and outside Eddie Toole Place on Main Street. Council community planning and economic development executive manager, Henry Bezuidenhout, said a lot of careful groundwork has gone into the creation of the program. “We can’t wait to see locals and visitors alike experiencing these innovative additions to our town centres,” he said. The trial will run until June 30 and community feedback will be sought to inform potential future opportunities for the parklets. Benjamin Millar

Silvia Green, owner of ’Fabulous Flower Co’. (Damjan Janevski) 235018_03

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4 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

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Buyers flock to Rockbank

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People of all ages are making their home in the Woodlea estate. (Pictures: Supplied)

all successful applications. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said more than 121,000 Australians have applied for the grant, which is expected to support around $30 billion of residential construction projects. “Extending the construction commencement requirement will smooth out the HomeBuilder

construction pipeline, support jobs in the construction sector, and ensure that existing applicants facing difficulties in starting construction on their new builds and renovations are not denied a HomeBuilder grant due to circumstances outside their control,” he said.

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The Rockbank area’s population boom shows no sign of abating with record-breaking land sales continuing to drive residential growth. Almost triple the number of land lots are being sold in the Woodlea estate compared to this time last year, selling out within days of going on the market. Close to 150 new lots were sold in the first three months of this year and 350 registrations were lodged for the latest release of just 31 lots. Woodlea was recognised as Australia’s fastest-selling community when it launched in 2015 and current sales are quickly driving the number of residents from the current population of 8500 to a likely tally above 20,000 by the time of the 711-hectare estate’s completion. Project director Matthew Dean said the combination of record low interest rates and government incentives such as the HomeBuilder scheme are driving buyer confidence, with Woodlea’s established infrastructure also a big drawcard. “We were pleased to know that some Woodlea buyers had secured the HomeBuilder grant, but it was not evident that it was a key driver for our continuous sell-outs,” he said. “Purchasers have sought a community that is already well-established in terms of infrastructure, such as schools, parks and Woodlea’s newly opened town centre.” Mr Dean said Woodlea has proven popular with a broad mix of buyers, from first home owners and investors to second and third-homeowners looking for their “forever home”. Applications for the $2.5 billion HomeBuilder scheme closed on April 14, but the federal government last week announced an extension of the construction commencement requirement from six months to 18 months for

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6 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

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‘Big Build’ boosts jobs By Benjamin Millar A Melton construction firm is helping lay the foundations for Victoria’s booming multi-billion dollar infrastructure pipeline. Westkon Precast Concrete is manufacturing and delivering giant precast beams weighing up to 80 tonne each as part of major transport projects including the Level Crossing Removal Project and the M80 Ring Road Upgrade. Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan visited Westkon’s Melton plant last week to observe the casting operations supporting construction works on a series of infrastructure projects. Westkon has employed an extra 30 workers to keep up with the demand for pre-made concrete beams and panels to help speed up works at level crossing removal and freeway upgrade sites. Nearly 450 Westkon beams has been commissioned across the M80 Upgrade, the Monash Freeway Upgrade, the South Gippsland Highway Realignment and the Mordialloc Freeway. Thirty of the beams were installed in recent weeks as part of the M80 Upgrade, forming new entry and exit ramps at Edgars Road in Thomastown. A further 140 beams will have been installed for the twin bridges over Waterways on the Mordialloc Freeway by the end of next month. More than 100 more are being installed as part of the Monash Freeway Upgrade, and 48 beams will be installed on the South Gippsland Highway Realignment. Closer to home, the precast concrete was also used for the Ballarat Line Upgrade and to build platforms, stairs and walls of the new Cobblebank station. Ms Allan said that every dollar spent during the construction blitz indirectly supports jobs throughout the economy, with 38,000 indirect jobs expected to be supported in 2021.

Transport infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan visited Westkon’s Melton plant last week. (Supplied)

“Our massive infrastructure agenda isn’t just delivering major road rail projects, it’s supporting thousands of jobs across the economy that are helping everyday Victorians,” she said. “The sheer volume of work being created by Victoria’s Big Build, will not only help create jobs but keep Victorians in jobs for years.”

For every 100 jobs created during construction, an average of more than 200 indirect jobs are supported in manufacturing, education, finance, accommodation, health services and food supplies, the government said. Ms Allan said all these jobs are playing an essential role in helping the Victorian economy recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

NEWS

Tributes flow for Melton dad Homicide detectives are continuing to investigate the circumstances around the suspicious death of a father of two in Melton last Tuesday. The body of Shane Brown, 30, was discovered at a house on Henry Street just before 4pm. Detectives scoured the scene last Tuesday and a man was questioned in relation to the incident, but homicide squad detectives are yet to lay charges over the death. An online fundraiser was launched to help raise money for the funeral and for Brown’s partner and children to relocate to a new home. “He was a loved and devoted father, partner, son, brother and friend,” the fundraiser stated. “We are trying to raise money for Shane’s funeral, any money that is left over will be put towards Bianca and the kids moving house as it’s too hard to live in the house they once shared.” Tributes have also poured in on social media following Brown’s death. “To my brother Shane Brown, I’ll never forget the memories and times we shared together,” one friend posted. “You’ll always be on my mind, you’ve had my back through thick and thin and you’ll always have a place in my heart, I’m going to miss you so much brother.” A funeral service for Brown was held in Melton on Monday. Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au. Benjamin Millar

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7 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

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Car crashes into house Police are searching for two men who fled the scene after crashing a stolen Mercedes Benz into a Harkness home last Monday night. Investigators have been told the black Mercedes Benz was travelling south on Orchid Avenue about 10.30pm when the driver lost control and crashed into a house on Claret Ash Boulevard. The driver and a passenger, both males, fled the scene on foot. Three people inside the home at the time of the crash avoided injury.

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Steve McGhie and Melanie Courtney at the ‘Safe Seats, Safe Kids’ fitting and checking day. (Supplied)

Safe seats for kids Parents are urged to book free child restraint fitting and checking to help keep their children safer on the roads. Kidsafe Victoria recently held a free ‘Safe Seats, Safe Kids’ fitting and checking day at Bridge Road Children’s and Community Centre in Strathtulloh, attended by Kidsafe Victoria chief executive Melanie Courtney and Melton MP Steve McGhie. Ms Courtney said a correctly fitted and used child car restraint is critical to keep kids safe, yet they can be challenging to get right unless you have been shown how to do so. “We are proud to offer this service for free to Victorian families in partnership with Neighbourhood Houses Victoria and with the support of the Victorian state government,” she said.

“We have received great feedback from parents and carers – many who simply didn’t know that their child wasn’t restrained safely.” Anecdotal evidence suggests that over 70 per cent of child car restraints are incorrectly fitted or used, according to Ms Courtney. To help combat the issue and improve safety outcomes for children travelling in vehicles, the state government last year committed $4 million to roll out a program of free child car restraint checks across the state. Mr McGhie said the government is proud to support the program. “It’s so important to have child restraints fitted properly to save kids’ lives and to reduce any potential injuries,” he said. Free bookings via safeseatssafekids.com.au Benjamin Millar

Melton council is holding two free ‘picnic in the park’ events where people can meet Family Day Care educators and staff. The first will be held at Hannah Watts Park in Melton from 3-5pm on Tuesday, May 4 (RSVP via fdcpicnichannahwatts. eventbrite.com.au), the second at Taylors Hill Recreation Reserve from 3-5pm on Wednesday, May 5 (RSVP fdcpicnictaylorshill.eventbrite.com.au).

Morning tea Moorabool’s Casi Community Connector initiative is hosting a free morning tea for seniors at 10am on Wednesday, May 5, at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall. Bookings essential: 5366 7100.

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gamblershelp.com.au 8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

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Millions in unclaimed super By Benjamin Millar and Oliver Lees Melton and Moorabool residents have more than $30 million languishing in lost or unclaimed superannuation accounts, according to new figures from the Australian Taxation Office. The ATO has revealed $13.8 billion in lost or unclaimed superannuation was being held in accounts across Australia as at June 30, 2020, including $2.3 billion in Victoria. A breakdown of postcode data shows Melton area residents have more than $19.3 million in

lost and unclaimed super while Moorabool residents have almost $11.4 million still being held. Residents in the 3337 postcode centred around the Melton township are missing out on $12.2 million, followed by $8.9 million for people living in and around Bacchus Marsh. Almost $5.5 million has been identified in the 3338 postcode which includes Melton South and Brookfield. Michael Osborne, a business and wealth strategist from Sunbury-based Sage Business Group, said super often gets lost when people

‘‘

it’s a savings plan that you can’t touch

’’

- Michael Osborne

change funds, jobs or their address, as well as when they get married and change their name. “It’s the nature of work with people moving around more … and that combines with people’s inexperience on the topic,” he said. “It’s really your savings, people wouldn’t leave a savings account unattended, but that’s

what’s happening with super.” Mr Osborne said when people are younger they might not place importance on super, but given it is their money they should be taking more of an interest. “Get a better understanding of where your money is, and get a better understanding of the importance of savings and superannuation,” he said. “I think when people understand the power of compounding interest, they would give it more focus – it’s a savings plan that you can’t touch.” Further details: www.ato.gov.au

Celebrating heritage Melton’s rich history is in the spotlight as part of the National Trust’s 2021 Australian Heritage Festival. A celebration of heritage, communities, diversity and creativity in bringing heritage to life, this year’s festival is running from April 18 to May 19 with the theme of ‘Our Heritage for the Future’. The Melton and District Historical Society will be opening its collections and the historic Willows Homestead at 76 Reserve Road from 1-4pm Wednesdays and Sundays. The 1850s homestead on the banks of the Toolern Creek is constructed of rendered stone rubble and mud mortar, offering a glimpse into local life more than 160 years ago. Guided tours will be run at Heathdale Christian College, introducing people to ‘Melbourne’s most joyful set of postmodern structures’. The free tours will be run on Saturday, May 1, showcasing buildings that received several major architectural awards.

The Melton Family History Group’s popular cemetery tour has moved online this year, offering people the chance to hear the fascinating stories of those who walked our streets before us from the comfort of their own homes. ‘The Lonely Grave Investigation: Ellen Batman & her Sisters at Toolern Vale’ is another online event, exploring the history of the grave belonging to the “forgotten girl who sleeps in the wooded folds of the Green Hills” at Toolern Vale. ‘Heartbreak at Rockbank Sheep Station’ is a talk by Janeen O’Connell tracing the colourful life of James McAra Mitchel. The ‘Researching Aboriginal Family History Workshop’ will be held online from 9.30am-12.30pm on Monday, May 17, exploring the unique set of challenges posed in researching Aboriginal family history. Details: www.nationaltrust.org.au/ahf Benjamin Millar

The Melton Family History Group’s Deb Slattery, Ian Bowey and Pauline Stotten. (Damjan Janevski) 234985_03

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Pricing under the pump

Pricing under the pump By Benjamin Millar

‘‘

strongly encourage residents to complain to the ACCC

’’

- Steve McGhie

Mr McGhie said he has taken the issue up with the Consumer Affairs Minister Melissa Horne and will be contacting federal Gorton MP Brendan O’Connor to discuss this issue soon, as fuel prices are regulated by the federal government. “In the interim I strongly encourage residents to complain to the ACCC [Australian Competition and Consumer Commission]” he said. The ACCC’s latest petrol monitoring report showed that average petrol prices rose in the 2020 September quarter after a record low earlier in the year. Although the ACCC does not set fuel prices, it does monitor retail fuel prices on a daily basis. A spokesperson said it has the power to investigate where it sees issues of concern. “Where we find sufficient evidence we will take action to protect consumers against misleading and anti-competitive conduct by fuel retailers.” Mr McGhie’s promise to take action was widely welcomed on social media, where some residents said they had seen price differences of up to 50 cents per litre between Melton and Watergardens.

Fuel prices at Melton petrol stations last week. (Damjan Janevski) 226880_01

Melton’s Andre Peters said the lack of independent competition makes it easier for the major fuel companies to keep prices inflated well above those in neighbouring suburbs. “Sadly there is no competition in Melton as there are no independents,” he said. “Generally we pay at least 20 cents a litre more at times in Melton.” A BP spokesman said petrol prices at the pump can be impacted by a number of different factors.

He said while there are currently about 1400 BP branded sites across Australia, about three quarters are owned by independent business partners who set their own retail pricing. “When it comes to retail fuel pricing, our aim is to be competitive and attract customers to our sites,” he said. “Generally speaking, the price at the pump is impacted by a number of different factors. In particular, international product prices and competition between service stations in a local

area. There are also other factors including exchange rates, taxes and local operating costs.” On Monday, unleaded 91 pump prices at Melton’s BP, Coles Express and 7/11 Mobil were all at 155.9 cents per litre, according to price comparison website Petrol Spy, with Woolworths Caltex at 168.9. Meanwhile Bacchus Marsh BP, Coles Express and 7/11 Mobil prices were 129.9 cents per litre – 26 cents less per litre – and independent outlets were just 119.9 cents per litre. 628174

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By Benjamin Millar

Melton’s petrol prices are coming under greater scrutiny with a local MP vowing to help take action to bring prices in line with neighbouring areas. Melton MP Steve McGhie said the area’s families are being unfairly hit with higher prices than people in neighbouring suburbs, often paying more than 20 cents per litre extra at the pump and spending at least $10 more every time they fill up. “I have had many constituents raise concerns regarding the prices of petrol in Melton being noticeably higher than in other areas,” Mr McGhie said. “I am deeply concerned that families in Melton are paying more than they should be.”

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27 April 2021

STAY INFORMED

Mayor’s message

Council services and facilities: melton.vic.gov.au/COVID19

Cr Kathy Majdlik

COVID-19 restrictions: dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus

We’ve drafted the Council budget for the next financial year and I’m so pleased to tell you we’ve planned more capital projects than ever before!

Quickly and easily connect with us online melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

We’re proposing a $137 million capital investment in our city, with a rate rise of just 1.5 per cent.

Record capital works program planned in draft Council budget Melton City Council has planned a record capital works program in its draft budget 2021-22, with a low rate rise of 1.5 per cent. There’s a proposed $137.7 million in works across the city including significant building works valued at $41.66 million; $9.82 million in recreational, leisure and Draft budget highlights include: Construction of Bridge Road Recreation Reserve pavilion, Cobblebank Construction of the Mt Atkinson East Community Hub, Truganina Expansion of the Melton Recycling Facility (Stage Two), Cobblebank Signalisation of the intersection at Caroline Springs Boulevard and

The Crossing, Caroline Springs Signalisation of the intersection at Caroline Springs Boulevard and Rockbank Middle Road, Caroline Springs Signalisation of the intersection at Taylors Road and Sinclairs Road, Plumpton Signalisation of the intersection at Taylors Road and Plumpton Road, Plumpton

community facilities; an extensive roads investment of $60.96 million; footpaths and cycle-ways worth $1.15 million; bridges at $4.22 million; $700,000 in street tree planting; $450,000 in library books; and $214,300 in public art. Duplication of Hume Drive, Taylors Hill (from Calder Park Drive to Gourlay Road) Major upgrade of Bulmans Road, West Melton (from Westlake Drive to Centenary Avenue) Extension of Boundary Road from Mt Cottrell Road to The Mall, Mount Cottrell Extension of Taylors Hill Youth and Community

Centre, Taylors Hill Completion of Cobblebank Indoor Stadium, Cobblebank Construction of community pavilion and oval at Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve, Diggers Rest MacPherson Park redevelopment (Stage Two), Toolern Vale Construction of Melton Recreation Reserve pavilion, Melton

This budget is set to deliver a fantastic mix of additional leisure facilities, new community buildings, major road upgrades, increased pathway connections, and so much more, which are all critical as our community continues to rapidly grow. In a big city like ours, safe and efficient road networks are essential and I’m particularly proud of the significant major road upgrades planned, including additional traffic lights along Caroline Springs Boulevard (Rockbank Middle Road and The Crossing intersections), and the duplication of Hume Drive in Taylors Hill (from Calder Park Drive to Gourlay Road). We’ve also allocated funds for the completion of our highest value project to date – the Cobblebank Indoor Stadium!

This is a draft document and there’s still a chance to have your say on what’s in the final budget. The draft budget 2021-22 is on public exhibition now and we encourage everyone to provide written feedback by 5pm on Thursday 13 May. Visit conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/draftbudget or contact Council on 9747 7200 to view a hard copy.

As we continue to recover from the events of 2020, these and many more proposed works are set to have a really positive impact on the local economy.

their potential which is why I advocated for a new fund to help keep disadvantaged youth engaged in positive community activities. The great news is that we have now established the Youth Engagement Grant Fund in which local eight to 16 year olds in need can apply for funding so that they can participate in extracurricular activities such as music lessons, chess clubs and sports.

I’d encourage you to take a look at the draft budget to see the high quality projects, services and activities that are there for you.

Watts Ward with Cr Moira Deeming As you can see, it’s draft budget time and there are some really exciting projects planned across the city, and specifically in Watts Ward. We’re proposing some significant road projects to make your journey to and from work, school drop-off, and weekend activities safer and more efficient. These include duplicating Hume Drive in Taylors Hill (from Calder Park Drive to Gourlay Road), and installing traffic lights along

Taylors Road at the Sinclairs Road and Plumpton Road intersections. I’m also pleased that we’ve included a number of recreation and community facility works including the construction of a community pavilion and oval at Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve, and the extension of Taylors Hill Youth and Community Centre. Of course, this is a draft budget so you now have the chance to provide your feedback at conversations. melton.vic.gov.au/draftbudget As a teacher, mother and councillor, I’m passionate about supporting all young people in our city to achieve

Feel free to contact me about Watts Ward or Council related issues on 0499 801 198 or email at: moira.deeming@melton.vic.gov.au or visit my Facebook page at: facebook.com/CrMoiraDeeming

And, please share your views with us to help ensure the final budget meets your needs now and in the future. To view the draft budget and have your say, visit conversations. melton.vic.gov.au/draftbudget You’re welcome to contact me regarding council matters at kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.

Your Councillors – Visit melton.vic.gov.au/councillors to find your ward Councillors and their contact details

Mayor Cr Kathy Majdlik

Deputy Mayor Cr Goran Kesic

10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Lara Carli

Cr Moira Deeming

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

By Tara Murray Nicole Oborne has long been involved with the Mother’s Day Classic, so it’s probably not much of a surprise to many to s ee her organise a Caroline Springs event this year. A board member of the Mother’s Day Classic, Ms Oborne has raised about $5000 for the charity over the years. “I live in Caroline Springs and I’m passionate about things in the local community,” she said. “We’ve all been touched by breast cancer, with one in seven women having it through their lifetime.

‘‘

We want more of a sense of community

’’

- Nicole Oborne

“We want to walk all over breast cancer.” Ms Oborne said about 40,000 people normally took part in the Mother’s Day Classic in Melbourne but COVID-19 restrictions this year mean a cap on the number of people who can gather. She said the Caroline Springs walk would give people the opportunity to walk or run around Caroline Springs Lake and spend time with their family. “We didn’t want to have just a virtual event,” she said. “We want more of a sense of community. “Caroline Springs Lake is a pretty prominent location for our area. “The idea is to spend time with family on Mother’s Day, while reflecting on the people who have been impacted and

Nicole Oborne and her dog Indigo. (Damjan Janevski) 234071_01

celebrating success stories.” There will be three distances that people can take part in: four kilometres, eight kilometres and 10 kilometres. This year people can register their pets too. As well as the walk, there will be a Zumba

charity event the day before at Ucebox Fitness in Deer Park. To register for the classic, visit: http:// ow.ly/N0VD50EuC5W. For information on the Zumba event, visit: http://ow.ly/RqTn50EuCy6

Feel the warmth of friendship

Active attitude to learning Melton Secondary College will deliver students a physical activity kickstart after receiving a $30,000 ‘Active Schools’ state government grant. Education Minister James Merlino was last week joined by AFLW star and Active Schools ambassador Tayla Harris to announce the school was one of 96 receiving the $30,000 grants under the $24 million Active Schools program. The program helps introduce a whole-school approach to physical activity, highlighting the physical and mental health benefits of an active lifestyle. Schools can use the money to buy fitness equipment, make classrooms more active, encourage greater active travel to and from school, upgrade playgrounds or provide opportunities to students to take up recreation activities. Melton Secondary College plans to use its funding to engage local coaches and trainers to run break time and afterschool sport clinics and active recreation groups in self-defence, box fit, running and other activities. As part of the program, 300 disadvantaged government schools received an Active Schools PE and Sport Funding Boost in term one this year to support them with the costs of physical education, sport and outdoor education. Mr Merlino said the funding recognises that sport and recreation are central to our way of life. Benjamin Millar

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BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Unlocking artistic potential Oliver Lees talks with some performers who are carving their own path on stage.

nside the Memorial Hall in Sunbury, Andrew Nicolaides is delivering an unconventional, yet thunderous drum solo. Surrounded by his peers of the BoilOver Performance Ensemble, Nicolaides is using state-of-the-art sensory technology to rehearse a section from the troupe’s upcoming performance entitled Buoy. Established in 2009, BoilOver is the brainchild of Bernadette Hetherington who saw the need for an inclusive theatre company based in Sunbury, one that provided a creative outlet and professional skill development in a safe and supportive environment. Buoy is the company’s newest work, which creative producer Carmen Maddison says was inspired by the performers experience of coronavirus lockdown and how their art brought balance to their lives. “BoilOver itself is a creative family, where people can bring to life their creative ideas,” she said. “The word ‘Buoy’ is used to explore the idea of what keeps us afloat. “The consequences of Covid were a lot more real for people with disabilities, as many have underlying health conditions that forced a stricter lockdown.

‘‘

all artists have important creative offerings

’’

- Carmen Maddison “For someone like Andrew, his painting and his dancing, that creative expression is really what kept him going.” In order to bring their dream to life, BoilOver has drawn on external resources of Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health and received funding from Brimbank City Council. Research team SensiLab, based out of Monash University, has been tailoring its sensory technology specifically to BoilOver’s artistic needs. Among its inventions is the Air Stick. To the naked eye, the Air Stick appears to be a simple drum stick, but in fact it’s rigged with sensor technology that allows whoever is wielding it to create a percussive performance without the need to strike a drum kit. The technology means that performers such as Nicolaides can engage with musical instruments, which is often difficult for someone with a disability. PhD student and composer Ciaran Frame is the mastermind behind the Air Stick. His research explores autonomy in musical instruments and he’s loved putting his creative project into practice. “It’s a lot of fun,” he said, watching a performer using the equipment. “It’s a way for the music to interact with the art form and to personalise that to each individual performer is special. “We try to cater to people’s needs and find ways they can best enjoy the technology.” Sam Trolland and Alon Ilsar are fellow researchers at SensiLab and have created a visual element to accompany Frame’s audio technology. Playing off of Buoy’s oceanic theme, Trolland has incorporated video footage of the ocean into the performance, with a projection of a wave scene lighting up the roof and a screen at the front of the hall. On either side of the stage, Trolland has placed two depth sensors which react to the performers by projecting their image on the screen. It creates an effect that the performer is in the water itself, manipulating the waves. Trolland said this type of project, that creates an immersive environment, is his favourite to work on. “It’s really amazing seeing people wanting to engage with the technology,” he said. BoilOver has also employed the aerial expertise of Fleur Dean, of physical theatre ensemble 5angrymen. Dean will be assisting the cast create an aerial 12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

Main: BoilOver performance ensemble members Karen Cleur, Andrew Nicolaides, Jaumie-Lee McMahon, Savannah Coots and Jacquelyn Hughes in rehearsal. (Damjan Janevski) 234733_03

Above: Alon Ilser experimenting with SensiLab technology. Right: Shanah Robinson in rehearsal using aerial equipment. (Pictures: Supplied) Top right: BoilOver ensemble performers Savannah Coots and Andrew Nicolaides. (Supplied/Matt Gleeson 3 Chord Images) Far right: Stage manager Justin O’Brien. (Oliver Lees)

performance, using rigging and harnesses to add another dimension. Having worked for years in the performing arts, Dean said she’s enjoyed shifting her focus to working with disabled performers. “Disability performing arts is a largely untapped sector,” she said. “It’s refreshing in its nature, working with people who haven’t had every opportunity handed to them, there is a freshness and a buoyancy to their attitude.” The BoilOver team is made up of more than just performers. Stage manager Justin O’Brien is tasked with making sure everything runs smoothly backstage. “It’s like a jigsaw puzzle,” he said, wearing his black and white ‘stage manager’ cap. “I make sure everybody comes on and off stage at the right time with the right costumes, it’s important because you have to get the

audience hooked.” Creative director Maddison says she and O’Brien have a special bond that helps the performance tick. “Justin has a cochlear implant which is actually quite useful for stage management, because I can speak directly into his ear piece,” she said. O’Brien has been with BoilOver for a few years and says he particularly enjoys the opportunity to make friends. “It’s a big adventure, we get to meet other people with disabilities and travel, one time we went to Geelong.” The feeling of camaraderie was shared by Savannah Coots, another performer who particularly enjoys making her own dance moves. “Everyone is so wonderful,” she said. Likewise Jaymie-lee McMahon said the program has allowed her to make new friends.

The company has been involved in a number of performances over the years, including a show at the Melba Spiegeltent for the Melbourne Fringe Festival in 2019. Creating a space where disabled performers can reach their artistic potential is the core purpose of the group, says Maddison, who stressed that at their best, BoilOver could put on a show as good as any. “I don’t refer to them as participants or clients, they are artists with their own unique expressions,” she said. “We believe all artists have important creative offerings and diverse abilities and it is our mission to push the boundaries and raise the bar of what artists living with a disability can achieve.” BoilOver will perform twice on Saturday, June 26 at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans. Bookings: https://creativebrimbank.com. au/buoy-by-boilover-inclusive-performanceensemble

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COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication.

Powder mill open day Friends of the Black Powder Mill in Cairnlea will hold an open day on Saturday, May 1, giving a glimpse into the mill’s past. Hear the history of gunpowder production at the site, see the machinery in operation and observe the firing of 19th century firearms, from 10.30am to 3.30pm. Talks and demonstrations at 11am and 1.30pm. Corner Parklea Avenue and Grassy Point Road, Cairnlea. ■ 0429 203 895 or foford54@tpg.com.au

Monster garage sale A monster garage sale is on at the Polish Hall, 6 Helene Street, Ardeer, on Saturday, May 1, 9am-1pm. All sorts of items available, including toys, books, tools, small furniture, clothing and kitchen utensils. ■ Krystyna, 0438 355 771

Tour Ziebell’s Farmhouse Tour Ziebell’s Farmhouse Museum and Heritage Garden, corner Ainwick Court and Gardenia Road, Thomastown, on Wednesday, May 5, 1-2.30pm. Cost $10. Bookings essential. ■ 0418 552 557 or enquiries@westgarthtown.org.au

The Ricky Nelson Show A musical tribute show for one of rock and roll’s brightest stars is coming to Taylors Lakes Secondary College on Saturday, May 8, from 7pm. The assistant principal of the school will be performing with a combination of archival footage and the sound of a live band. Bookings essential. ■ https://www.trybooking.com/BORUG

Through the lens Southern Mariners player Tom Brookes slides into third base during the recent baseball championships at Werribee. Photographer Damjan Janevski says it’s a good action photograph, where Brookes’ effort can be seen by the expression on his face.

Museum UNDONE A new immersive project with the Kyneton Museum collection engages with history and its gaps as part performance, part exhibition. Audiences are free to roam the 90 minute performance at 7pm Fridays and Saturdays, and from 5pm Sundays across June 2021 at Metanoia Theatre, 270 Sydney Road. Tickets are $25 per adult, $15 for concession/seniors, and $10 for children. ■ https://metanoiatheatre.com/event/ museum-undone/

Volunteers wanted The Multiple Sclerosis Community Visitors Scheme is seeking female Maltese and Italian-speaking volunteers to join its volunteer program in the Werribee and Point Cook areas to visit elderly residents in either an aged care facility or their own home. A female volunteer with an understanding of MS is also sought to visit a mature lady in an aged care facility in Altona Meadows. ■ volunteer@ms.org.au or Sue, 9845 2744

Zonta club meets The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. ■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa. ■ 9747 8576

AL-ANON meets Story times Encourage a love of reading and help your child develop their literacy skills at Braybrook library on Tuesdays and Footscray library on Wednesdays, from 11-11.30am. Or enjoy Story Time at Home via YouTube on Mondays from 11am. Suitable for children aged 2-5 years and their families. Bookings required. ■ www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/library

AL-ANON provides support for families and loved ones living with alcoholics and problem drinkers. The group meets Mondays at St Thomas Anglican Church foyer, 117 Synnot Street, Werribee, from 7.30pm, and on Tuesdays at the St Mary’s Tennis Club rooms, 204 Grimshaw Street, Greensborough. ■ 0412 432 760

Friendship Group Melton South Knit & Natter All welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or

Altona Day View Club (Voice Interest Education of Women) meets on the third Wednesday of each month at Altona RSL from 11am. ■ Janet, 0412 010 176 or 9394 6522

Women’s choir Computer and sewing classes

The Willin Wimmin choir meets Wednesdays during school terms at Church of Christ hall, corner John Street and Douglas Parade, Williamstown, from 7.30-9.30pm. There are no auditions and you don’t need to be able to read music. ■ willin.wimmin@gmail.com

Melton South Community Centre is offering a range of computer and sewing classes for term two. Classes start Monday, May 3. ■ 9747 8576 or www.meltonsouth.org.au

Probus club The Deer Park Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at The Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, from 10am. New members and visitors welcome. ■ Don, 0409 191 580 Westgate Diabetes Support Group meets at 10am on the first Tuesday of the month at Altona Bowling Club, 113 Civic Parade, Altona. ■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

In collaboration with Miniroos, Sunshine Plaza is hosting a pop-up interactive soccer activities day. Free, family-friendly event. Kids are encouraged to show off their skills. Saturday, May 1, from 11am until 2pm at the Sunshine Plaza, 324/328 Hampshire Road, Sunshine.

Garden club The Sunbury Garden Club hosts a meeting on the first Tuesday of every month, with new visitors always welcome. There is a guest speaker at each meeting, which commences at 7.30pm at the Sunbury Football Club. ■ Cheryl, 9744 1663

Playing cards, making friends If you enjoy playing cards, meeting new friends, and keeping mentally fit, attend social bridge every Friday morning at the Melton library from 10am-noon. Beginners to experienced players are welcome. Melton Bridge Club also meets on Tuesday nights from 7-10pm at Arnolds Creek Community Centre. ■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Conservation volunteers Join the Friends of Cobbledicks Ford for conservation work in the reserve on the second Friday of the month, 10am-noon, March to October. Registrations open 9.30am in the carpark. BYO water bottle and gloves. Tools provided. ■ John 0407 546 235, cobbledicksford@gmail.com

Senior citizens club (Pictures: iStock)

Diabetes support

Interactive soccer

Senior citizens are welcome to visit the Sunbury Senior Citizens’ Club on Mondays, from noon-3pm at 8 O’Shannassy Street. Play indoor games and have your health checked by the council. If you’re over 60 years of age, come along. ■ Don, 9744 3507 13 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Around Bacchus Marsh Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski caught up with locals enjoying the autumn sunshine while out and about in Bacchus Marsh.

1/ Ronald and his dog Patch. 2/ Martin Harris and his 95-year-old mum Peg Harris. 3/ Paul Dowling with Phoebe, 1, and Caelan, 4. 4/ Joseph and Muriel Law and Val Hansen. 5/ Colin Creese. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 233187

FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

April 29, 1981

April 24, 1991

April 24, 2001

April 26, 2011

A group of 18 mothers with 30 children staged a protest outside the Darley Pavilion on Wednesday following a committee of management decision to lock the Darley Playgroup out of the premises.

Only two months ago, Melton South resident Reg Edwards had a busy lawnmowing and handyman business. But his livelihood and his health were shattered when he was “mown down” by a driver who lost control of his car while allegedly reading a street directory.

After four break-ins in two weeks members of Melton’s Vietnam Veterans Association are planning to take serious action.

Willing and able: Living with a disability

14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

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Pick up your favourite local newspaper, the Melton Moorabool Star Weekly from local outlets listed below or subscribe to our digital edition and have it sent to your device every week!

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Illustrations light up library

(Supplied)

An exhibition by one celebrated childre of Australia’s most n’s lighting up Melton book authors is library. Never be late for a a striking series of Parade includes book illustrations by award-winning author and illustra tor Shaun Tan (inset). Featuring a collect ion of illustrations from Tan’s best-kn own including The Arrival picture books , The Red Tree, The Lost Thing, Rules Singing Bones, Cicada of Summer, The and Tales from the Inner City, the showcase celebra tes Tan’s unique approa ch As well as being an to storytelling. acclaimed writer and internationally illustrator, Tan has branched out into theatre design and concept art for ﬁlms Horton Hears a Who and Pixar’s WALL-E . He directed the Academ y Award-winning short based on his winning ﬁlm The Lost Thing, picture book of the same name. Never be late for a Parade is showing at Melton Library and Learning Hub until March 7.

Nursing boss ba nned

Benjamin Millar

By Benjamin Millar

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The Victorian Civil and Administrativ The director of nursing e The allegations at Djerriwarrh Health Tribunal last week returned a Service during a included inadequ ruling disqualified Ms cluster of perinat ate formal reviews Meek from applyin that education and training al deaths registra at Bacchus Marsh of overall clinica l practic for nursing and g for midwifery tion for a period of Hospital has been perinatal deaths as e and staff and that 10 years. banned from working as they occurred. The ruling been aware of deficien Ms Meek should have a nurse or midwif Ms Meek ceased workin e for a of former follows last year’s disqualification decade. cies in midwifery skills. g at DjHS in 2015 maternity “She failed and surrendered The Nursing and her Little for a 10-year services manager Mary the deficien to take adequate steps to ensure Midwif and midwife in 2016. registration as a nurse cies period ery were identified and Board of during for her failures Austra lia sought a remedied,” the same period. 10-year ban for Julia the tribunal found. Djerriwarrh Health Meek in the wake of reports Services chief executi A 2015 review by identify ing “catastr Presiding VCAT membe professor Euan Wallac ve ophic” identified failings behind a r Wendy Boddison Belinda Scott said while she was e and series of “avoidable” “catastrophic and unable to comment deaths systemic and other adverse unprecedented Hallymembers Pamela Barry and Bernad patient outcomes ette Djerriwarrh on individual practitioners, also found Ms Meek at DjHS obstetric governance failings” with the from 2013 to 2015. has implemented failed to ensure shift by shift presenc services at DjHS during e of a midwife compet the change” across the health service “profound External reviews identifi the period. Ms Meek, 63, faced in foetal surveil ent since 2015. ed that the perinatal “It has robust clinica allegations in the tribuna lance monitoring mortality rate was that she had failed l govern l in birthin ance significantly higher the process g suite. systematic trainin to take adequate the state average and than deliver effectiv g, continued profess es, The tribuna much higher than e systems and process steps to ional be expected for a low would in her role es at DjHS for ensurin l found there was no clear criteria development and strong leaders as director of nursing risk unit. hip that ensures Djerriwarrh g only maternity , which she had the cases suitable held since 2005. is a safe, level of the capacit y of DjHS were accepte to fully-functioning health service secure and There was also found to be inadeq d. of Bacchus Marsh, Melton for the people and Caroline uate Springs,” she said.

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15 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

Property news

Is property investment for you? Many people consider investing in property in the hope of bringing wealth to their lives. While there are many alternatives such as stocks, bonds and cash, property investment tends to be viewed as one of the safest and easiest options. According to realestateview.com.au, property investment isn’t for everyone. If you are considering investing in property, it is essential to weigh up the pros and cons. THE PROS Capital growth – The value of your property will grow over time and may be extremely beneficial financially if well chosen. Not only will you benefit from steady capital growth, but regular monthly rental returns.

Mitigate risk – You can insure your asset against most risks; fire, damage, a tenant leaving, damaging your property. Anyone can invest – You do not have to possess a vast amount of knowledge, as you may with stocks or opening up a business. Control – Unlike other investments, you are in full control of your property investment; you can make all the decisions and have control over all of your returns. Tax benefits – Although tax benefits should

(iStock)

A safe investment – This is the only investment market that is not dominated by investors, creating a natural buffer in the market. It is also the most forgiving investment; if you purchase the worst house in the area, the chances are that its value will still increase over time. not be used as a decision-making factor, it can be a benefit of investing in property. THE CONS Liquidity – Although you can sell your property if things get tough, the process is not as quick as selling other investments such as shares. Hidden and ongoing costs – Along with the initial costs of investing in property (i.e. stamp-duty, deposit, legal and conveyance fees), you will need to consider the ongoing hidden costs of property investment such

as fitting out the property, maintenance and repairs, building and landlord insurance, land tax, water rates, council rates, etc. Other investments, such as shares, do not incur ongoing fees.

payments and sometimes even refuse to leave the property. Some disputes can take months to resolve and become very stressful, especially if there is an emotional attachment to the property.

Rent-free periods – During the periods when you cannot find a tenant and the property is vacant, you will need to cover the mortgage repayments.

Other costs – Although negative gearing may offer tax deductions, you will need to consider and budget for the shortfall between repayments and rental income, as well as the cost to cover repayments when the property is vacant.

Bad tenants – Problematic tenants are every owner’s nightmare. They can severely damage your property, refuse to make

Find your new View

Whether you’re looking to buy or rent property or when it comes time to sell your most valuable asset, realestateview.com.au will help you find your new view.

Victoria’s new view for property. 16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

Source: realestateview.com.au

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 026

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

easy

7 9 6 8

1 3

6 8 5 6 1 8 3 7 4 9 2 3 2 6 9 3 7 7 3 9 2 medium

6 9

4 5 3

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

Counter-intelligence (9) Employer (colloq) (4) Separates with a sieve (5) Decision-making group (9) Denial (8) Duds (6) Pitfall (4) Huge statues (10) Artists who embrace postclassical styles (10) Circle of light (4) Variety of nut (6) Plane hubs (8) Bandit (9) Fraudulent schemes (5) Appendage (4) Sponsor (9)

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No. 026

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Protect (9) Implant (5) Cemetery (10) Courageous (4) Excel (5) Appears to be (5) Apple drinks (6) Refuge (7) Lucky (10) Methods of travel between floors (9) Husbands or wives (7) Staggered (6) Military student (5) Japanese dish (5) Sat (5) Italian meatbased sauce (4)

DECODER

No. 026

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3 LETTERS AIM AMP ASS AVO CAR DOE DYE EEL ERA GEE GNP HE'S LSD LYS NEE ODE OVA RAP REV SAC SIX TIN TOO VIE

B VM Z R J WG A L U S Y 7

4 LETTERS ASKS FLED FREE HERD LESS LIAR OGLE PAVE ROMP SAGE SALT STIR TEAR TEEM

9-LETTER WORD Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Today’s Aim: 37 words: Good 56 words: Very good 76 words: Excellent

B N

abed, abet, abets, absent, bade, band, bands, bandy, bane, bans, banter, banters, bard, bards, bare, bared, bares, barest, barn, bars, base, based, baser, bast, baste, basted, bate, bated, bates, bayed, bays, bead, beads, beady, bean, bear, beard, bears, beast, beat, beats, bend, bent, best, beta, betray, betrays, bets, brad, brads, brae, bran, brand, brands, brandy, brat, bray, brayed, brays, bread, breast, bred, brent, byre, BYSTANDER, byte, dabs, debar, debars, debt, derby, drab, nearby, sabre, stab, standby

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3 7 5 6 2 9 8 4 1

4 6 1 8 7 3 9 5 2

2 8 9 1 4 5 3 6 7

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

hard

medium

easy

9 3 6 5

1 4

3 5

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OK H E NC P X F I QD T

WORDFIT

No. 026

5 LETTERS ADORE AHEAD ALOUD AORTA ATONE CELLO CIRCA EASEL EATEN EDGED EDGES ERASE ERODE ERRED EVADE EVICT EXERT GENES HASTE LILLY

MAUVE OCTAL ORBIT POSTS RAGER READS RISEN ROUGE SATIN SCALD SEEPS SILOS SLIDE SOLAR SONGS SPENT START STEEL STOVE SUEDE TACOS

TENOR TESTS TOPIC TRUNK TSARS URINE USAGE USING VENUE 6 LETTERS ENDERS ENSURE SNEAKS SNEAKY

7 LETTERS ABUSING DREDGES GRADING ISSUING PASSION RIDDING 8 LETTERS DEVOURED DIVULGED IDEOLOGY YODELLED

30-04-21

DUNLOP AUTO SERVICE CENTRE 161 High Street Melton

WE ARE STILL TRADING AS NORMAL We are also following the Government advice for social distancing and sanitising. •฀Full฀range฀of฀Goodyear,฀Dunlop฀ Branded฀tyres฀&฀all฀major฀brands฀ Including฀Monsta฀Extreme฀MUD,฀ MUD฀Warrior฀&฀Street฀Series 161 High Street Melton

9746 0088

•฀All฀Mechanical฀Repairs฀ •฀Log฀book฀servicing •฀Car/Small฀Truck/4WD฀ •฀Car฀&฀4WD฀Suspension฀&฀ Alignments www.dunlopmelton.com.au 12446748-SN16-20

17 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services

Place your ad in print and online www.networkclassifieds.com.au

V Deadline

V Trades Business Profile

V Concrete Products & Services

NATHAN FENECH CONCRETING

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V Air Conditioning

Services • Repairs • Maintenance Over 30 years experience, All types of Air Con, AU31693 Evap Cooler & Gas Heating System G6425413AA-dc5Nov

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VM CONCRETING

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Call Victor on 0 41

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12486162-CG11-21

* VEHICLE REPAIRS

jimsmobilemechanics.com.au

www.rosscoengineering.com.au

TD CARPENTRY

Gates & Pergolas ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ Lou 0412 339 445 Tony 0431 339 739

Specialising in ✔ Pergolas and deckings ✔ Fencing ✔ Framing ✔ Home Renovations Free Quotes

MEL FENCING

฀

Colorbond, Tubular & Timber Fencing & Gates

Phone 0401 005 760 G6638978

Ph Sergio 0431 649 907

V Carpet Cleaning 12492883-HC18-21

www.topedgekitchens.com.au

COUTA CARPET CLEANING

Yates and Son Fencing and Decking

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All types of Fencing, Gates and Decking Free quotes Pensioner discounts

Call Phil 0433 880 368

AK BRICKLAYING All Types of Bricklaying Restoration Work ฀Brick Fences ฀Repair Work

Carpet Steam Cleaning

3 ROOMS FOR $90 12418345-SN21-19

12491417-HC17-21

G6657959

Contact Adam 0422 250 675 V Builders & Building Services

V Bathroom & Kitchens

froggys.com.au 1133473-LB19-14

M & M BATHROOM RENOVATIONS

(03) 5367 5853

13 Reddrop St, Bacchus Marsh PH: 5367 1141 AH: 0418 301 841 V Fencing & Gates

V Bricklayers

Factory/Showroom: 13 Waigani Avenue, Ravenhall, 3023

0403 197 240 - 0403 197 249

Kitchens & Bathroom Renovations · Plumbing · Tiling · Electrical · Carpentry · Plastering · One stop shop - Kitchen, bathroom, laundries & renovation needs. · Complete service from start to finish, including kitchen 3D design. · Appliance packages available. · Bathroom tapware, accessories & tiles on display in our showroom.

8348 5441

LUXCEL BLINDS

Specialising in: Tiling Baths Vanities Shower Recesses & Screens Painting Plastering FOR FREE QUOTE CALL MAX ON

- Manufacturing - Metals - Engineering On Site - Hydraulic Hoses & Fittings - Powder Coating - Sand Blasting - Custom Fabrication - Welding - Steel Sales - Engineering Supplies

V Carpenters

Showroom by appointment only Free Quotes & Mobile Ensuite Hire. terms & conditions apply Please note that we specialise in renovations - we do not do repairs or maintenance

V Awnings, Blinds & Curtains

P: 8390 1121 www.luxcel.com.au | E: sales@luxcel.com.au

084 469 or 9747 1999

ROSSCO ENGINEERING AND SALES

฀

12420493-CG25-19

• COMPLETE INTERIOR & EXTERIOR • WINDOW FASHION SOLUTIONS • DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL • ALL SUBURBS Free Measure and Quote

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Call 1300 666 808

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Domestic - Commercial - Industrial s Slate s Exposed s Plain s Colour s Stencil s Restore Driveways Seal and Concrete Cutting Free quotes Call Ricky on 0431 261 855

12422314-LB29-19

V Automotive

131 546

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2 084 469 or 97 47 1999

V Bathroom & Kitchens

* VEHICLE INSPECTIONS

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Lou’s Colorbond Fencing

฀

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฀

Very diverse in all aspects of specialised property services ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Andrew 0425 852 621 12412038-FA09-10

*conditions apply

FLETCHERS

BASED ON LOCATION CARPET CLEANING UPHOLSTERY CLEANING ABN 92 465 717 255 18 Years Experience FREE DEODORISING

Call Paul 0412

Need cash?

Sell it local

816 479

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G6055734AA-dc28M

฀

CALL:

creting

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D & R CONCRETING

12476756-SN03-21

Call 0430 332 368

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12422200-LB29-19

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Call Victor on 0412

1229835-ACM22-16

12435708-LB03-20

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• Post & Rail • Post & Wire • Electric Fencing Peter Fry Fencing P/L (03) 5367 1909 Mobile 0419 112 862 or 0428 519 855 V Furniture Removals

FUSSY FURNITURE REMOVALS Reliable & Experienced Removalist | 2 men - from $85 per hour. Competetive prices - time starts at your door. Will beat any reasonable quote.

Ph: 0413 693 216 | 0422 437 935

Place Your Classified Ads Online Your advert will appear in print and online! 18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

12402111-RA43-18

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12422200-LB29-19

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12402755-RA44-18

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FREE QUOTES Mobile: 0478 129 330 | ABN. 43462185813

12416765-SN19-19

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Deadline for all classiﬁcations is 1:30pm Monday.

All • Footings • Slabs • Foundations • Concrete Paving • Concrete Restorations NO JOB TOO SMALL!

12401756-CG42-18

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12479887-JW04-21

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ANTENNA MAN

12398667-SN37-18

F & J ROLLER DOORS REPAIRS & REMOTES Roller Door Remote Controls Silent Drive 7 Year Warranty FROM $500 fully installed

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★ New & Existing ★

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฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ “Your Local Tree & Stump Removalist” ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ 0421 836 152

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12444058-SN11-20

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Find your special occasion needs in our

www.stylecutsalon.com M: 0497 677 931

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PROCESS WORKER

Two positions available. Hot plate and service hand. Experience essential. Call 0421 899 721.

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V Positions Vacant

Massage hr $55. Hair Cuts from $10. Colours: Full Head Foils from $65/ Half Head from $55.

Celebrations

Fulltime postions available for a qualified motor mechanic and MR tow truck operator. Must be able to work unsupervised and have good customer service Phone: 5368 2752

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Much more at Style Cut Salon Visit the link above

V Locksmiths

General Classifieds

kim@kimhallconsulting.com.au or 0404 865 597 Applications close Friday 14 May 2021.

Required to work full time in a cheese factory between 2am and 8am. Must be reliable, responsible and keen to work. Working unsupervised is an advantage. Early morning start.

Phone only between 9am-3pm Monday-Friday

9338 6644

BACCHUS MARSH LOCKSMITHS V Adult Services

1235322622-PB22-17

Rainbow Dolls

V Painters/Decorators

JL & M Painting ฀

฀

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12364637-HM37-17

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Ph 0412 472 213

C & S KIMPTON PLASTERERS ฀ ฀

Open 7 days

CLAIRVOYANT Tarot card readings etc. Past, present, future. All you wish to know and much more. I can help with problems, jealousy, marriage & bad luck. Free crystal with every reading. Anna 0433 135 150 /9354 8440.

48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ Ring Craig 0419 381 963 9747 9683 12387021-CG20-18

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TOM MONAGHAN PLUMBING Lic-30509 ★ Sewer & drain blockages ★ Tap & toilet repairs ★ Gutters & downpipes ★ General plumbing G6799034AA-dc29Apr 5367 2997 AH 1132342-LB19-14

0457 307 943

V Garage Sales

Fixwell Smash Repairs 0412 376 295 V Massage Therapists

Brookfield 123 Brooklyn Road Sat 1st and Sun 2nd May, 8am-3pm. Something for everybody !!!

Spray Painter required for modern well equipped workshop. Colour matching experience essential. Must be qualified. Excellent wages and conditions.

RELAXATION MASSAGE 7 days, 10am - 8pm. St Albans. Phone 0458 891 066 or 0438 842 866.

Fixwell Smash Repairs 0412 376 295

V Massage Therapists

Imagine yourself in Bali

ABN 40 640 572 030

Angels Oriental Massage

David: 0425 811 882 Ash: 0403 619 333

��

STAR

12 Grant Street, Bacchus Marsh Vic 3340 Please call 0437 211 614 | www.angelspa.com.au

� 17 Years Guarantee � 10% Pensioner Discount � Council Permit Supplied � Computer Levelling

V Pets & Services

FIVE STAR REBLOCKING & UNDERPINNING � Full Insurance � All work Council approved � 15 years guarantee � All Council permits supplied � 100% computer levelling � Concrete pump used � 15 years experience � For a free quote and advice

G6638324AA-dc18Feb

� Free Quote � All Suburbs � Insurance � Elevation

Contact Simon:

9309 0700 - 0411 174 000

MEL-ASH REFRIGERATION & AIR CONDITIONING - DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL

• Fridges • Freezers L011010 / AU-05387 • Air Conditioners • Car Re-gassing

9366 7831 - 0417 556 963

12473978-JW50-20

V Refrigeration

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identiﬁcation number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identiﬁcation number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

A TEACHER Available for tutoring. Mathematics, Science, Chemistry, Chinese and Japanese. Phone 0418 871 203

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C1093409-JO39-13

V Roofing

LATIN ROOF RESTORATION

V Tuition

12423634-SN31-19

Tel: 9309 2351 177646

G6519072AA-dc21Jan

DB-L-29449

SPRAY PAINTER

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

REBLOCKING & UNDERPINNING 977914

t 3FQBJST 3FTUPSBUJPO t $FNFOU 5FSSBDPUUB 5JMFT t )JHI 1SFTTVSF $MFBOJOH t 3FCFEEJOH 1PJOUJOH t "DSZMJD $PBU 4ZTUFN t $MFBO (VUUFST %PXOQJQFT t 'SFF RVPUF t ZFBS HVBSBOUFF

$BMM (FPSHF PS 4FC

Fixwell Smash Repairs 0412 376 295

Panel Beater required for modern clean workshop. Minor and major repairs. Must be qualified. Excellent wages and conditions.

V Reblocking/Underpinning

ALL AROUND

DETAILER Professional Detailer required for modern well equipped workshop. Must be experienced to denib and polish. Excellent wages and conditions.

PANEL BEATER

V For Sale KING size mattress. No tears or rips, slightly discolored. Hardly used $10. 0353 675 663 colinr4@yahoo.com.au

V Plasterers

฀ ฀

$100/ 30mins

V Positions Vacant

12478242-CG03-21

฀

V Clairvoyant /Psychic

General

AIRLINE BAGGAGE HANDLING AGENTS Ready for take-off? Our industry is commencing its recovery from its longest ever shut-down, so there has never been a better time to start your career in aviation. Swissport, the world’s leader in airport ground handling services, some of the biggest names in aviation. If you have dreamed of working on the airport, working with Swissport is the opportunity you have been waiting for. From working in the baggage sorting room to driving baggage tractors, from pushing back aircraft to supervising teams, Swissport will provide you with comprehensive training to do these roles and more. We are looking for people from a range of backgrounds, particularly people with experience in operating vehicles and supervising teams and offering accelerated advancement opportunities for people with the aptitude and the drive to fast-track their career in aviation. Swissport has been committed to delivering safe and high-quality services in Australia since 1992. If you want to be part of Swissport’s growth in Australia and take part in the nation’s recovery from COVID, as our border restrictions are removed and the industry ramps up, there has never been a better time to join the Swissport team. Looking for an exciting new challenge? If this sounds like you, and you’re looking for a new challenge, rewarding new career, lots of training and development opportunities, then don’t miss out APPLY NOW! www.swissport.com.au/work-with-us/

section of Network Classifieds.

Employment section of Network Classifieds.

12477089-JW03-21

24/7 Locksmiths Mention All Suburbs 0418 534 201 or 0414 930 586 this ad for Shop located at 36 Grant St, 10% off Bacchus Marsh 12380364-RC10-18

Interested in teaching with flexible hours? Sessional educator required to conduct environmental presentations. Seeking enthusiastic, well organised and flexible applicants, with primary school teaching qualifications and experience a must. Working with Children Check, current driver's licence and car essential as areas covered include Bacchus Marsh, Woodend, Melton & Sunbury. Presenters will be employed on a sessional basis, and ideally will be available at least two days a week during school hours.

Real Estate

V Positions Vacant

Celebrations

12487961-NG13-21

฀ ฀ ฀

12362816-ACM35-17

D.B. HANDYMAN

TARNEIT Female to rent one furnished bedroom. $150pw. No bills. Phone: 0424 324 420.

Employment

Melton Tree & Stump Removals

V Handy Persons

V Positions Vacant

12469374-CG46-20

V Tree Lopping/Surgery

0421 421 640

Homes

DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS

12327446-LN42-16

฀

HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS

1232632-ACM26-16

V To Share

HOUSE FOR RENT, totally modern home in Melton West, with central air, heating, new kitchen and 2 x bathrooms and 2 x toilets, large outdoor entertainment area with barbecue facilities, large landscaped gardens front and rear. Security system. Long term lease available. Ph: Frank 0424 600 676.

SAME DAY SERVICE

0412 184 772

V Guttering

฀

V To Let

Speech Pathologist / Occupational Therapist Do you value family-centred practice? Are you passionate about children and early childhood development? Noah’s Ark, your local Melton Early Childhood Intervention Service is looking for keen and passionate Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists to join our team. Funded by the NDIS, we are a not-for-profit, community organisation specialising in allied health services to children ages 0-12 with disabilities and developmental delays. About As a clinical specialist we need your expertise as a Key Worker to provide family-centred and goaloriented strategies by building trusting and quality relationships with families by: • Adopting a curious and strengths-based approach to your work. • Working with a growing team of like-minded people. • Providing practice driven, clinical supports in area of expertise and in consultation with your team. • Contributing to continuous improvements and a high-quality service. Culture and Benefits of working at Noah’s Ark At Noah’s Ark we pride ourselves on giving you the foundations to fulfil your purpose, develop your practice and strengths whilst feeling supported. • Manageable client load with balanced admin and clinical hours • Competitive salary and conditions • Get paid an additional 17.5% leave loading when on holidays! • 14 weeks paid parental leave $$ • Flexible hours and working arrangements that works for you and your clients • Generous salary packaging options (which means an additional $16k tax free annually) • Above mileage reimbursement for KM’s travelled • Robust Wellness program (incl. bespoke EAP Service and weekly yoga) • Social Networking and clinical based conferences with international guest speakers. To request a copy of the position description / application submissions to HR@noahsarkinc.org.au For a confidential discussion please contact the Team Leader, Jen Galvin on 0430 376 756 Successful applicants will require a NDIS Worker Screening Check and Working with Children Check.

12492100-SG18-21

V Television/Video/Audio

12468783-LB45-20

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9746 7785

Employment

Real Estate

Buy, & Sell in our

Motoring section of Network Classifieds.

Motoring V Wrecking

FREE CAR REMOVAL Pay up to $500 for most cars Dead or Alive

V Wrecking 12321532-HM36-16

Trades & Services

LMCT 10268W

7 days a week service Call Gus for a free quotation on

FREE CAR REMOVAL Pay up to $600 for all complete cars dead or alive!

0422 108 512 Also Towing Service Available 12492826-LB18-21

LMCT 10268W

0435 904 818 19 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Extra shove in the Audi SUV pack

Coupe and SUV looks combine well with the latest addition to the Q8 stable. (Pictures: Supplied)

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring Audi has called up a strapping diesel derivative to pack down with its petrol-powered Q8 teammate in its flagship luxury sports utility vehicle squad. The Q8 50 TDI quattro comes to market with power-packed performance and looks to match. Powered by a 3.0-litre TDI V6 engine producing 210 kW of power and 600 Nm of torque (the Q8 55 TFSI 3.0-litre turbo petrol V6 puts out 250 kW and 500 Nm), the Q8 50 TDI can hit 100 km/h from rest in an impressive 6.3 seconds. Mated with an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with quattro all-wheel drive technology, fuel consumption according to Audi combined is 6.9 litres per 100 kilometres, with savings of up to 0.7 litres per 100km, thanks to help from 48 Volt mild-hybrid technology. A $11,100 Premium plus package includes 22-inch five-spoke alloy wheels ($1000 more for 22-inch alloy wheels in five V-spoke design), adaptive air suspension, HD Matrix LED headlights, privacy glass, 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3-D sound system, four-zone air conditioning with rear touch control panel and the colour interior lighting package. An optional full leather package, with a suite of additional items in fine Nappa leather is also available for $8900. The Audi Q8 50 TDI has the comprehensive Audi service plan package, costing $2040 for three years or $2960 for five years.

Styling On the street, the Q8 50 TDI quattro stands alongside the Audi Q8 55 TFSI quattro variant with the same sports coupe characteristics - strong contours and taut athletic surfaces that are a perfect foil for the large single frame octagonal grille. The test vehicle sported the S line exterior package, with 21-inch alloy wheels, LED 20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

rear, lane change warning and rear cross-traffic assist. Add to this head-up display and 360-degree cameras, including kerb view for easy maneuvering.

Driving AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Audi Q8 50 TDI quattro $129,900 Audi Q8 55 TFSI quattro $129,900 Premium Plus package $11,000 Full Leather package $8,900

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Audi dealer for drive-away prices

headlights with high beam assist and adaptive suspension with damper control. The tailgate was power operated and electrically adjustable/ foldable exterior mirrors were heated and had memory settings.

Interior At nearly five metres long, there is plenty of room in the cabin for folk in the five seats – no third row to take up a generous 600-plus litres of luggage space. With the rear seats folded this expands to a van-like 1755 litres. And despite its swoopy coupe looks, the roof makes room for the taller passenger. Electrically adjustable seats are clothed in Valcona leather and have 4-way lumbar support. Front seats are heated and ventilated the second-row bench seat with 40:20:40 split fold slides.

Infotainment This is what we have come to expect from Audi, the latest virtual cockpit with MMI Navigation Plus with easy-to-handle touch responses. Add Audi Connect Plus, smart phone interface, with

Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and wireless charging. Entertainment is in tune with the latest technology: DAB+ digital radio and Audi 180-Watt sound system with 10 speakers, six-channel amplifier, which extends to two rear USB outlets

Engines / transmissions Powered by a 3.0-litre TDI V6 engine producing 210 kW of power and 600 Nm of torque, mated with an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with quattro all-wheel drive technology, all helped by 48 Volt mild-hybrid technology.

Safety The five-star ANCAP rating is at 2019 levels. Safety is well taken care of by 39 driver assistance systems to provide active and passive safety protection for occupants. Included are Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive drive assist (adaptive cruise control with stop & go, with traffic jam assist), lane departure warning, pre-sense front and

With a range of dial-up driving modes from ‘comfort’ to ‘dynamic’ the Q8 50 TDI can be tailored to the driver’s mood. The car carries the family trait of feeling heavy to drive – because it is hefty - and steering tries to compensate, leading to lack of feedback at times, while the lane keeping assist can chip in when it seriously is not wanted. Thankfully the latter can be turned off. Gear shifts in slow traffic were almost imperceptible but there was a slight hesitancy at times off the mark. Audi says the 48V mild hybrid system saves up to 0.7 litres per 100 kilometres with its ability to call on the idle stop / start system from 22 km/h as the vehicle comes to rest and switches the engine off under load or coasting to save fuel. The test vehicle recorded 9.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and suburbs, and 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres at motorway speeds. This is a big car but because of the presence of five seats and not seven, the space is given over to occupants and their gear. There’s plenty of storage, with bottle holders in all doors, a pair of cup holders between the front seats, plus two in a fold-down rear armrest. Centre-console storage includes a wireless phone charger. Air vents for the dual zone climate control extend to the back seating positions as do two USB points and a 12-volt power outlet.

Summary Whatever the vehicle there’s always room for a diesel driver or two. The Audi Q8 50 TDI quattro fits well into the oil-burner segment without forsaking the premium SUV luxuries. As for performance, it carries the coupe flag too.

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Beach Villa rockets home By Shaun Campbell It was a spellbinding night of firsts at Tabcorp Park Melton on Saturday night, including a potential superstar notching up an impressive debut victory. Youngster Beach Villa revealed an impressive arsenal of afterburners to trounce his rivals in an exciting TAB Sapling Stakes (2YO Colts & Geldings) win for driver Kate Gath and trainer Emma Stewart. After leading through a speedy 57.6 first half, the full-brother of 2019 Chariots of Fire champ Poster Boy showed he possessed the explosive family trait by putting 10 metres on the field in a blink of an eye before strolling home to win the $24,000 feature in a 1:55:1 mile rate. “I thought at the trials he was pretty impressive, and tonight he just reaffirmed that,” Gath said. “He just ambles along, it is no effort to him and he doesn’t really know what he’s doing yet either.” Beach Villa is the latest rocket out of impressive broodmare, Aston Villa USA, who has also produced the likes of Yankee Rockstar (22 wins, $329,000), Born To Rocknroll (17 wins, $300,000) and, of course, Poster Boy (22 wins, $803,310). Gath said the mare was one of a “great group” at Lauriston bloodstock. “Clearly they know what they are doing because there are just so many of them,” she said. “[They] put a lot of money into the sport, but all their yearlings tend to be really good racehorses. It is just phenomenal.” In the next race, Spellbound NZ overcame a wide draw in the Allied Express Ian Daff Memorial to become the first horse this season to defeat the classy Tangoingwithsierra, with

Kate Gath drives Beach Villa to a debut victory. (Stuart McCormick)

driver Stuart McDonald stalking the favourite before putting her to the sword with a 27.7 last quarter. But it wasn’t all smooth sailing, with Spellbound NZ caught wide early as the field sprinted the first quarter of the last mile in 27.8 seconds. “The first quarter was certainly a little bit

scary; it was getting a little nerve wracking of where I was going to end up,” McDonald told Trots Vision after the race. “But it worked out well; I knew I had the horse that was good enough to do a bit of work and win.” McDonald said the four-year-old mare’s impressive 1:52:9 mile rate victory – his and

trainer Nathan Purdon’s first since relocating to Victoria – was indicative of her trackwork. In another big night, driver Leigh Sutton and Russell Jack scored a double, with four-year-old Sonny Weaver using the sprint lane to edge out Im Anothermasterpiece NZ in a thrilling finish, while Young Rooster rattled home to win the Melton Toyota Pace.

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which team selected Australian basketballer Shyla Heal with the eighth pick of the 2021 WNBA Draft? 2. The proposal of a new European Super League caused controversy recently in which sport?

7. Top jockey Jamie Kah was born in which Australian state or territory? 8. Prior to joining the New Orleans Pelicans, NBA basketballer Didi Louzada played for which NBL team?

Thomas Bach

11. Who was the NRL 2020 season’s minor premier? 12. How many Summer Olympics have been held in the United States? 13. What Perth Wildcats player has won two NBL MVP Awards?

3. Kate Lutkins was judged the 2021 AFLW Grand Final’s best afield playing for which team?

14. Which two players shared the AFLW 2021 Best and Fairest Award? 15. After soccer, what sport is considered to be the second most played sport worldwide?

4. Which A-League team did Grant Brebner most recently coach?

9. The Margaret River Pro is a World Surfing League event held in which Australian state or territory?

5. How many goals did Jamie MacLaren score in Melbourne City’s recent 7-0 defeat of A-League rivals Melbourne Victory? 6. The NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns are both based in which US state?

10. Which Australian golf professional had a career high Official World Golf Ranking of eighth in March 2004?

Grant Brebner

19. Which American boxer won a gold medal at the 1968 Mexico City Games?

25. In which year was the Melbourne Football Club’s last premiership?

20. Which capital city acts as a second base for the GWS Giants?

26. Which Victorian cricketer is the captain of Middlesex in the County Championship?

21. Which Queensland batsman was man of the match in the Sheffield Shield final?

27. Which British driver is Daniel Ricciardo’s teammate at McLaren?

16. What AFL team was fined $20,000 in Round 5 due to two players’ use of mobile phones during a match?

22. Which 2018 motor racing film was nominated for four Academy Awards?

28. Which golf course hosts the US Masters each year?

17. In what year did Craig Bellamy debut as coach of the Melbourne Storm?

23. Which country won the 2019 Rugby Union World Cup?

29. Thomas Bach is the current president of which body?

18. What NBA team has both the most wins and losses in NBA Finals series?

24. Which two US universities contest the famous annual rowing regatta?

30. How many Test hundreds did Ricky Ponting score in his career?

3004

1. Chicago Sky 2. Soccer 3. Brisbane Lions 4. Melbourne Victory 5. Five 6. Ohio 7. South Australia 8. Sydney Kings 9. Western Australia 10. Stuart Appleby 11. Penrith Panthers 12. Four (1904, 1932, 1984, 1996) 13. Bryce Cotton 14. Kiara Bowers and Brianna Davey 15. Badminton 16. Collingwood 17. 2003 18. Los Angeles Lakers 19. George Foreman 20. Canberra 21. Marnus Labuschagne 22. Ford V Ferrari 23. South Africa 24. Harvard and Yale 25. 1964 26. Peter Handscomb 27. Lando Norris 28. Augusta 29. International Olympic Committee 30. 41 21 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

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Kicking goals Footy’s back in full swing and Keilor and Aberfeldie’s women’s teams were relishing the chance to be back on the field at the weekend. The teams faced off in the EDFL women’s premier division round 3. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski caught some of the action.

3 5

1/ Keilor’s Bianca Louise Michetti shrugs off a tackle. 2/ Keilor’s Taylah Egan attempts to break away. 3/ Keilor’s Marthese Zahra prepares for a mark. 4/ Keilor’s Stephanie Aleksovski is at the bottom of the pack. 5/ Keilor’s Burcu Johnson hangs on to a mark. 6/ Keilor’s Georgina Rebuffo gets the ball away. 7/ Keilor’s Kaitlyn O’Keefe breaks out of the pack. 8/ A Keilor player makes a break for the ball. (Pictures: Damjan JanevskI) 235220 22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021

SPORT Falcons return to the court with a draw A draw between the City West Falcons and the Geelong Cougars seemed a somewhat fitting first game in the return to Victorian Netball League championship action. A goal by Jane Cook in the final seconds decided the result. It was the first time teams have taken to the court in 18 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Falcons coach Marg Lind said she was happy with the 55-55 draw against a side with many former Falcons players. She said it was surreal to be back out there coaching a match for points. “It was pretty tricky,” she said. “We were pretty happy with it as we gave up a nine goal lead at one point. “Jane Cook sealed the draw, off a one-two pass from a centre pass taken with 10 seconds

to go. It was almost a layup. “A draw was a fitting result to a fantastic game. I think there are some good signs moving forward.” Lind was keen to give all the group a go on court in round one, including Emma Walters and Melissa Oloamanu who have both been promoted into the top side this season. Lind said everyone played a role in coming away with the two points. “We kept rotating the defenders as they were rotating the attackers,” she said. “The attacking end of Maggie [Lind], Maddy [Gray] and Jane [Cook] were good. “Montana Holmes got put back in wing defence and nullified their wing attacks. “Mel O [Oloamanu] did a good job when she came on.” Lind said while she was happy with the result,

she said it was going to take a few weeks before they had a true idea of where they sit. She said Geelong was one of the more experienced sides, which had a similar line-up to 2019. “We’ve really reshaped our club,” she said. “It’ll take a few weeks, as we’ve taken a risk on a young side. We have to keep rewarding the young ones, hopefully it pays off.” The Falcons’ division 1 and under-19 teams both suffered losses. Like the top side, Lind tried a number of different combinations. “In division 1 it blew out at the end,” she said. “When you’re losing you look to rotate everyone. “The 19s got within one. They are the rarest team we’ve ever had, but one with the most potential.

“We’ve just got two girls left from our 2019 premiership team. “Something will happen with this group. It might not be this year, but something will happen.” Of the new under-19 team, Achel Yout, Charli Nicol and Isabelle Marles were the standouts for the side. Lind said the three had come through the pathways program with Altona Netball Association. “We’ve put in place a strong transition in place at the club, which is working from 11s and unders through to champ. “We’re trying to create the pathway.” This week the Falcons face Peninsula Waves. Tara Murray

Melton’s Jordyn Charge and his team after the Avalon Raceway win. (Supplied)

Charge goes back-to-back

Grace Downes has been selected to compete in the Junior State Championships. (Damjan Janevski) 235262_03

Downes a rising star By Benjamin Millar With hockey coursing strongly through her blood, Grace Downes is quickly making her mark as a rising star of the sport. The Melton Hockey Club senior team player has been selected to compete in the Junior State Championships, named in the under-15 Girls’ North West Tigers team hoping to claw its way to the top when the tournament gets under way in Bendigo in early July. Downes first began playing with the Mustangs in 2014, following on the heels of her family and quickly making her mark as a player to watch. Mustangs internal development junior co-ordinator Kellie McLaren said Downes has been a powerhouse since she first began playing in the under-10s, displaying a “never give up attitude just like her mum”.

“It is no surprise Grace has once again been selected, her determination and skill on the field is second to none,” she said. Downes, who usually plays at centre forward or inner, has chalked up more than 50 goals in just over 90 matches for the Mustangs. She made her senior team debut in 2019 and hasn’t looked back, relishing the experience despite her young age. Downes said she is excited to have been selected to compete at the state championships and to be playing against the best players from across Victoria. “Kellie mentioned it and she said it would be a great experience for me to try out,” she said. “I’ll be able to work on my skills a lot more and work on the things that need improvement.” Downes’ love for hockey goes back as far as she can remember, inspired by the passion her whole family has for the game.

“Hockey is like a family sport for people in my family – my aunt and my mum and my sister and my nan all played hockey when they were young,” she said. “As soon as they could they got me involved, I was about six, and I love it. I just love the fact that I can run a lot during the game, I love how I can do different things with the ball every time I get it.” Downes is no stranger to the championships experience, having been selected in the under-13 side that competed in 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic wiped out the bulk of 2020, leaving Downes and her teammates to find other ways to keep their skills finely honed. “When we were allowed a little bit of time to go outside for exercise we always used to go out and play hockey,” she said. “And even in my lounge room I would keep up some practice.”

Rising Melton Sprintcar star Jordyn Charge has dominated a weekend of racing to chalk up a maiden feature-race win before backing it up in spectacular fashion to make it a double. In last weekend’s Triple Crown Series double header for 360 Sprintcars, held at Warrnambool’s Premier Speedway on Friday and Lara’s Avalon Raceway on Saturday, 21-year-old Charge came away with career-best drives to claim the spoils in both rounds. Charge said he was thrilled to get his maiden feature-race win at Premier Speedway after qualifying on pole position and going on to lead for the entire 25 laps before taking the flag. The gritty Avalon Raceway victory came from seventh on the grid and required chasing down veteran Grant Anderson, Charge taking the lead at the end of the penultimate lap and holding on to score an impressive win. “To win one feature race was wonderful but to win two capped what was an amazing weekend,” Charge said. “I had a great run at Premier Speedway, and to be able to enjoy the type of night where pretty much everything went accordingly to plan was a wonderful feeling.” Charge said he was proud to pick up his first feature-race win at Premier Speedway, especially since it’s one of the country’s leading tracks. “The following night at Avalon Raceway, I went into the night with my confidence high, and I was hoping to back up the previous night’s form, and that’s what I managed to do,” he said. Prior to last weekend’s double wins, Charge’s best performances occurred at Premier Speedway with a pair of fourth-place finishes. The 2020-21 season is now close to wrapping up, with the third and final Triple Crown Series round at Simpson Speedway on May 2. Benjamin Millar

23 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 April, 2021