Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 25th May 2021 by Star Weekly

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25 MAY, 2021

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Soil protest at Parliament

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Angry residents fighting plans to dump toxic soil from the West Gate Tunnel project in Bacchus Marsh have taken their protest to Parliament. Scores of protestors lined the steps of Parliament last Thursday as the state government prepared to deliver its annual budget, hoisting banners and placards opposing contaminated tunnel spoil being trucked into the Bacchus Marsh and Sunbury areas. Moorabool Environment Group president Jodie Valpied said organisers were very happy with the turnout and that the protest sent a clear message that the community “will not tolerate being dumped on”. “Instead of cutting corners, we need to find a proper solution away from our food bowl and children,” she said. “We’ll continue fighting this, we are in the process of legal proceedings against the planning minister’s decision to cut communities out from consultation in the proposal.” A further protest has been planned for Bacchus Marsh this Saturday, with a march from Rupert Vance Moon Reserve down the Avenue of Honour from 10.30am. Benjamin Millar

Budget cash for Melton By Benjamin Millar Public transport, education and a key stretch of Calder Freeway are the big winners in the Melton area in the state government’s budget for the next 12 months. Handed down last Thursday, the 2021-22 budget included $94 million for Melton and Wyndham Vale railway corridor upgrades to allow for higher capacity trains including the nine-car VLocity services, which can increase capacity by up to 50 per cent during peak. A further $100 million will be spent on safety

and capacity improvements at the Calder Park Interchange between Gap Road in Sunbury and the M80 Ring Road, jointly funded with the federal government. Construction will begin on a new Rockbank Murray Road Primary School, $10 million will be spent upgrading Parkwood Green Primary School in Hillside and land will be acquired for Brookfield Primary School and Aintree Secondary School. The government has set aside $250,000 for a business case for TAFE in the City of Melton and improvements to bus routes 444 and 454 in

Woodlea and Aintree. A new whole-of-family support model for families with complex needs will also be introduced in Melton-Brimbank. Moorabool projects include the recently announced $4 million towards the $8.9 million upgrade to the Bacchus Marsh Racecourse Recreation Reserve and $3.5 million for a new community and early learning centre in Maddingley. Kororoit MP Marlene Kairouz welcomed the budget, including funding for a new primary school for Rockbank. “With a rapidly growing community, local

families deserve confidence in their kids’ future – that’s what this investment delivers.” Melton MP Steve McGhie said the focus is caring for communities and creating local jobs. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik welcomed the budget commitments, but called for more investment in a new western freight terminal, electrification of the Melton train line, full construction of Melton Hospital, and upgrades to the Western and Melton highways. “We know our residents need more local jobs, better transport connections, and greater education opportunities.”

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25 May 2021

Mayor’s message

STAY INFORMED

Cr Kathy Majdlik

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

The State Budget was released last week and pleasingly there were some positive highlights for our community.

COVID-19 restrictions: dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus Quickly and easily connect with us online melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

The future of a local TAFE facility will be investigated with $250,000 committed to a business case. Meanwhile, Parkwood Green Primary School in Hillside will be upgraded, the new Rockbank Murray Road Primary School will be constructed, and land will be acquired for a future Brookfield Primary School.

AFL awards MacPherson Park national project of the year

New indoor courts taking shape at Cobblebank Stadium

MacPherson Park Recreation Reserve has jointly won a prestigious AFL award for National Project of the Year, and has also been named the AFL Victoria Community Facility Project of the Year! Following the completion of $13.3 million in the stage one redevelopments, the facility won acclaim from the AFL for catering to diverse users and providing greater venue usage for training and matches.

Cobblebank Stadium works are making great progress and the project is on schedule for completion later this year. This month, contractors began laying the sports flooring for the six indoor courts. It follows the recent completion of the structural steel and pre-cast panels, framing, plaster, roofing and more.

It was also recognised for ongoing works to realign the adjacent oval which will increase participation from 181 footballers in 2019 to an anticipated 630 male, female, senior and junior footballers in 2021.

What’s your vision for the future? We’re seeking feedback on the draft Community Vision 2041 – a document that will guide Council to deliver the future our community envisions. Earlier community consultation has helped create the draft ‘Melton City 2041’ and capture current community aspirations and COVID-19 recovery priorities. To find out more and have your say on the draft community vision, visit conversations.melton.vic. gov.au/communityvision2041 Submissions close 5pm, Tuesday 8 June.

Once complete, the stadium will service basketball, netball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis and futsal competition and training, as well as community programs.

Coburn Ward with Cr Sophie Ramsey It’s an exciting time for our community with planning and construction on key infrastructure projects underway. A project very close to my heart is the new Cobblebank Indoor Stadium. Works are progressing well and the project is on track to be finished later this year. This $31 million facility is the largest project undertaken by Council and once complete will service basketball, netball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis and futsal competition and training, as well as community programs. Significant upgrade works are also continuing out at MacPherson Park Recreation Reserve, with construction on a new soccer pavilion recently commencing. As well as providing upgraded playing and training spaces, the upgraded facility will also play a big role in helping to connect residents and clubs socially.

And finally, we are currently seeking feedback on proposed upgrade works to Bulmans Road, between High Street and Centenary Avenue. Plans include widening and realigning the road, additional service roads and formalised on-street parking, as well as shared paths and cycling lanes, and traffic lights at the High Street and Bulmans Road intersection.

Train passenger capacity will also be increased by up to 50 per cent during peak periods, in an investment that will enable higher capacity trains in the City of Melton. The government will begin stage one of the new Melton Hospital utilising its earlier $70 million commitment and will also trial a new support model for local families with complex needs. It’s also fantastic to see a strong allocation for the Growing Suburbs Fund, which we hope will continue to help Council fund future projects. I’d like to thank the State Government for its ongoing support for our fast growing city. Of course, there are some other projects we had hoped to see in this budget too. We know our residents need more local jobs, better transport connections, and greater education opportunities, and Council can’t do this alone.

Bulmans Road is one of our major thoroughfares in Coburn Ward, connecting Harkness and Melton West, and the project is designed to help to keep motorists, cyclists and pedestrians safe and make school drop-off and pick-up smoother for families. To have your say, please submit your feedback by 5pm on Monday 31 May via conversations. melton.vic.gov.au/bulmansroad

I’d like to assure our community that we will continue to advocate to the State Government for a range of projects including a new western freight terminal, electrification of the Melton Line, the Outer Metropolitan Ring, Western Highway upgrade, Melton Highway upgrade, full construction of Melton Hospital, and a university.

Don’t hesitate to contact me at sophie.ramsey@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 067. I’d love to hear your thoughts about Coburn Ward.

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

2 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 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

NEWS

Fuel pump pain confirmed By Benjamin Millar Melton’s petrol prices are among the highest in Victoria, according to a new RACV study confirming what the area’s residents have long known. As petrol prices rebound to pre-pandemic highs, the RACV research reveals that motorists can save as much as $300 a year by shopping around for cheaper fuel. The study analyses daily petrol prices in 748 metropolitan and regional suburbs and towns for the year to April 1. Melbourne’s cheapest petrol price of 117.98 cents per litre could be found in the 3911 postcode which includes the southeastern

Melton petrol stations. (Damjan Janevski) 226880_01

suburbs of Baxter and Langwarrin South. The most expensive place to fill up in the state was on Melbourne’s eastern fringe in the 3777 postcode, which includes Healesville, Badger

Creek and Toolangi, where motorists paid an average of 137.35 cents per litre for unleaded fuel. Prices in the 3337 postcode, taking in Melton, Melton West, Harkness, Kurunjang and Toolern Vale, averaged 133.07c per litre – more than 12 cents per litre above Melbourne’s overall average price for the period of 124.86 cents per litre. RACV senior engineer Nicholas Platt said the 20 cents per litre price difference between Melbourne’s cheapest and most expensive suburbs highlights that motorists can save hundreds of dollars a year by shopping around. “If you consider the price difference based on an average family car using 1500 litres to travel

Giving youth a voice

A pathway to change

Luis Rojas volunteers at the Parkwood Green Primary School as part of the EDconnect program. (Damjan Janevski) 237084_02

Luis Rojas had a good, high paying job but he said he felt there was much more to life. He decided to take a step back to spend more time with his son and give back to the community. It was that decision that set him on his path with EdConnect, a charity organisation that matches volunteers with students in need to offer one-on-one mentoring in the classroom. Mr Rojas, who had to wait a year to step into the classroom due to COVID-19, said joining EdConnect was one of the best things he’s done. “There’s circumstances in life that make you change,” he said. “I started volunteering when

15,000 kilometres over a year, that 20 cents per litre difference adds up to $300,” he said. Mr Platt said fuel prices tend to be driven by local competition in particular areas. “The more petrol stations and the more competitive they are, the cheaper the fuel,” he said. “It doesn’t have anything to do with how affluent a postcode is.” The findings come after Melton MP Steve McGhie vowed earlier this year to help take action to bring prices in line with neighbouring areas. Mr McGhie said Melton families are being unfairly hit with higher prices than people in areas including Brimbank and Moorabool, often paying more than 20 cents per litre extra.

I had time off, where I got to meet kids, parents, fathers. Some kids don’t have a father figure. “I wanted to start to make a change. I wanted to leave a good template for my son.“ Mr Rojas has started volunteering at Parkwood Green Primary this year as part of EdConnect’s program He provides one-on-one mentoring support for a student in grade 6. “This has been a really humbling experience for me and I highly recommend it,” he said. “The kids are great, they just want someone who will listen to them and provide a little encouragement.” Parkwood Green student wellbeing

co-ordinator Marlise Harris said the school was lucky to have someone like Luis come in. “In these times, we recognise the importance of having a person from the community, assisting students who need it most, every week.” EdConnect liaison officer Rhonda Velkovski, said the volunteers are amazing. “With last year being a disruptive school year, this year the extra help and support EdConnect volunteers are giving to students is more valuable and welcomed than ever before.”

Young Melton residents will have more of a say in local services and programs as part of a VicHealth plan to put young people in the driver’s seat to help create a healthier future. Melton is one of 16 ‘fast-track’ local government areas across the state giving young people a seat at the decision-making table during the design of the council’s Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan. This partnership comes as a VicHealth survey shows four in every 10 young Victorians aged 18 to 24 had difficulties staying connected to others in 2020, a similar number were concerned about their job prospects and two in 10 said they did not trust their neighbours. VicHealth chief executive Dr Sandro Demaio said the partnership aims to help children grow up active, connected and healthy. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the council is passionate about supporting young residents to achieve their potential and will open up discussions with young people to better gauge what the council can do to improve their lives. “The outcomes will help us identify specific actions and priorities for children and young people in three key areas: physical activity, healthy eating and mental health,” she said. “This will inform how we best deliver services and programs to all local children, young people and families. It may also mean new programs and services could be established to meet gaps.” Benjamin Millar

Tara Murray

Smile Squad is on its way The Victorian Government is making it easier for our kids to get the dental care they need. Find out more at smilesquad.vic.gov.au

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4 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Promised station time-critical: MP By Benjamin Millar A new ambulance station to help meet spiralling demand is due to open in Melton in the middle of next year, almost six years after the project was first announced. The state government promised in 2016 to buy land for six new ambulance stations in some of Melbourne’s fastest growing outer suburbs to meet the needs of residential growth. The then Suburban Development Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said $8.5 million from the Growth Areas Infrastructure Contributions

(GAIC) would be used to buy the land for sites in Melton, Taylors Lakes, Wyndham Vale, Craigieburn, Mernda and Pakenham. Asked about the future of the Melton project last week, a state government spokesman said the new Melton ambulance station promised in 2016 is expected to open on High Street mid-2022, with construction to begin this September. “The Andrews Labor government is delivering new stand-alone ambulance stations across Melbourne’s west and north,” he said. The tender process is under way for the new

Taylors Lakes site, with construction expected to start later this year. Ambulance Victoria’s latest quarterly performance data confirms there is increased demand for ambulance services, including 416 more Code 1 responses in Melton LGA in the December quarter than the previous quarter. Western Metropolitan Liberal MP Bernie Finn said the state government was putting people’s lives at risk with the delay in improving ambulance services in the west. “I have spoken to people waiting extensive times for ambulances, it’s a big worry,” he said.

Mr Finn said numerous promises have been given by state the government yet very few have come to fruition. “The demand for emergency services to keep up with the need is so far behind it’s not funny.” Melton council planning services manager Robert Baggio said the council and the Department of Health have had preliminary discussions about the project, however the council is yet to receive a planning application. “Council would be the responsible authority for a planning permit application of this nature,” he said.

Careers of choice Fire fighters and social media stars have opened young people’s eyes to potential career pathways during a week of activities at Melton Specialist School. As part of National Careers Week (May 17 to 21), the school put on a range of visits and excursions to help inspire students to start thinking about their own future careers. Chloe Hayden, a 23-year-old online influencer with 300,000 followers on TikTok, shared her message of “Different, Not Less” to students in years 11 and 12 in VCAL. The autism advocate spoke to students about following their passion and using their strengths in life and their future careers. The Clarkefield Fire Brigade truck also visited the school, giving primary and secondary students the chance to chat with the crew and turn their hands to using the water hose. Year 7 and 8 students also took part in an industry immersion visit to Mambourin, a

social enterprise warehouse in Derrimut. Melton Specialist School assistant principal Tegan Aquilina said the events were a great way to inspire students to think about their own futures beyond school. “Our young people need to start planning sooner rather than later what their pathways are going to be,” she said. “This is about students … learning and exploring what is out there.” Ms Aquilina said Chloe Hayden had been a great hook to get people talking, as the students could relate to her interest in social media and lived experience. Department of Education and Training inclusive industry engagement co-ordinator Reece Gains said starting early and increasing connection with industry helps to improve employment outcomes for students with disabilities. Benjamin Millar

Chloe Hayden (right) shared her message of “Different, Not Less” with students. (Supplied)

E L A Y S A D THIS SATURDAY ONLY! 9am - 5pm, Saturday 29th of May 158 - 166 High Street, MELTON VIC 3337 12496769-SG22-21

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5 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU Briefs

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Appeal for dash cam footage Police are seeking dash cam footage of events leading up to a car accident on the Western Freeway in Melton West last Wednesday night. A grey Toyota Prado was travelling east between Coburns Road and Hopetoun Park Road when the driver collided with an excavator bucket sitting in the middle of the road, believed to have fallen from a truck. The Prado rolled for about 70 metres before flipping over the wire median strip barrier and coming to rest on its side in front of oncoming traffic. The woman driver and her three-year-old and two-month-old children suffered minor injuries in the crash. Details to Caroline Springs Police station via 9361 4700.

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Learning for life

ARSF founder and chief executive Russell White. (Supplied)

Risky behaviour rises Almost one third of drivers attributed the rule breaking to inattention, while one in five did so in the belief that it was safe to do so. ARSF founder and chief executive Russell White said the research highlights the need for further education around the idea that it’s just drivers who suffer the consequences of road risk taking. “Tragically, 1108 people lost their lives on Australian roads last year,” he said. “The impact of road trauma is far-reaching and does not discriminate. Road users also need to understand the impact on families, friends, schools, workplaces, first responders.” Details: arsf.com.au/take-the-pledge

Drivers are being urged to slow down and stick to the road rules in a bid to reduce the traumatic domino effect of road fatalities. The Australian Road Safety Foundation (ARSF) is asking road users to consider the impacts on the whole community of road trauma after new research revealed regional Victorians are continuing to undertake risky behaviours on the roads. Released in the lead-up to the 15th annual Fatality Free Friday on May 28, the research found speeding remains by far the most broken road rule, with 47 per cent of regional Victorians admitting to being heavy footed. Almost two thirds of respondents admit to having broken a road rule, with a quarter of people doing so at least weekly.

Melton council is among six councils in Melbourne’s west partnering to host the free Learning for Earning Festival from May 27 to 29. Facilitated by the LearnWest Network, the online festival will bring together employers, education providers and potential employees. The events will be broken down into six learning streams: learning, skills, career planning and pathways, employment, industry and business, and entrepreneurship. Register via melton.vic.gov.au/ learningforearning

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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NEWS

Council adopts green energy

Mayor Cr Kathy Majdlik. (Damjan Janevski) 237089_03

Solar blitz reduces bills Melton council is embarking on a solar panel blitz as part of a pledge to cut net greenhouse gas emissions to zero within 20 years. The council’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2040 involves converting its entire electricity supply to a renewable energy source such as solar or wind power, including power drawn from solar panels that will be installed on the council’s 10 most energy consuming sites including the Civic Centre in Melton, Melton Waves Leisure Centre and Caroline Springs library. The plan will capture as much energy as would be needed to power 2000 homes every year and help cut emissions by the equivalent of taking 4000 cars off the road. The council has officially pledged its green

target in a letter to state Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio. “I’m really excited at the prospect that our organisation will be fully powered by green energy in less than 20 years,” Cr Majdlik said. “Transitioning to a renewable energy future will not only address climate change and protect the environment, but … benefit the local economy, create jobs, and lower council’s costs.” Cr Majdlik said the pledge marks the beginning of a contribution towards getting the entire state of Victoria to net-zero emissions. “We’re doing our part towards creating a more sustainable future, for our generation and for future generations to come,” she said.

Melton council’s energy costs could be cut by a third as part of a groundbreaking clean power partnership with other councils. The council is one of 46 statewide to join the Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO), the largest ever emissions reduction project by local government in Australia. Partner councils are pooling their energy contracts in a bid to make 45 per cent of all electricity they use sourced from renewables, cutting greenhouse emissions by 260,000 tonnes every year. From July 1 this year, Red Energy will provide VECO with 240 gigawatts hours of clean power, equivalent to or removing the emissions from 90,000 cars or powering 48,000 homes every year. The project is expected to reduce each of the council’s energy bills by up to 35 per cent, based on current costs. Owned by Snowy Hydro and based in Melbourne, Red Energy is an Australian owned and operated energy retailer. Chief executive Iain Graham said that given Red Energy is born and bred in Victoria, it is excited to be a part of a project that is supporting Victorian councils, ratepayers and two new Victorian wind farms. “Red Energy is delighted to partner with Victorian councils to provide a long-term energy contract that will enable councils to purchase renewable energy at a competitive price,” he said.

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7 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

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Rates action reduced By Benjamin Millar Melton council has slashed the number of residents it takes to court over unpaid rates bills in the past decade from almost 1000 per year to zero. A Victorian Ombudsman report, handed down last week, probed how fairly Victoria’s 79 councils were acting when struggling homeowners fell into debt. Tabling her investigation, Ombudsman Deborah Glass said too many people are told their only option is a payment plan, when the legal framework includes waivers and deferrals. “While councils should only be expected to waive rates rarely, discretion, not sledgehammer refusals, should be the order of the day,” she said. Ms Glass has recommended stronger laws, capped interest rates, and improved oversight of debt collectors to protect ratepayers in financial

hardship from heavy-handed councils. Her report included two Melton case studies involving legal threats and poor experiences with debt collectors. Melton council finance manager Sam Rumoro said people unable to make a rates payment should contact the council and find out what financial assistance is available. “We’re continually looking at opportunities to improve outcomes for all residents, and that includes reviewing our Hardship Policy, COVID-19 Hardship Policy, and keeping rate rises to a minimum,” he said. “We send reminder letters, make phone calls to better understand individual circumstances, and connect people with financial counsellors who provide advice about financial support.” Mr Rumoro said the council issues reminder notices and rates notices before referring a matter to a debt collection agency, which then contacts ratepayers.

“Council officers oversee collection activities and no legal action is undertaken unless approved by a council officer,” he said. Steps taken prior to legal action include reminder letters, a debt collection agency final notice and a letter of demand from a solicitor. “Court action was only pursued when ratepayers did not respond to council contact over a significant period of time, or when ratepayers broke payment arrangements over a significant period of time without explanation,” Mr Rumoro said. “Council’s legal action on rates arrears has diminished significantly in recent years due to improved processes. No legal action has been launched since March 2020, given the difficult climate.” The report revealed Melton reported 3433 waivers each worth $200 in 2019-20, totalling $686,000, as part of its COVID assistance package.

NEWS

Vital road link approved A long-awaited road link connecting Eyensbury with Werribee is expected to cut travel times by almost 30 minutes upon completion. Melton and Wyndham councils have both given the green light to the construction of Mt Mary Road, a new four-kilometre road connecting Werribee to the southern side of Eynesbury estate. Resimax Group chief executive Steve Hooker said the $16 million project linking Eynesbury with Ballan Road will open up the estate to the Wyndham corridor. “When it’s completed, Mt Mary Road will cut travel time between Werribee and Eynesbury by 25 minutes,” he said. “This means that what’s currently a 50-minute drive will be reduced to a painless 25-minute commute, which is great news for those who work and go to school in Wyndham Vale or Werribee or catch the train from the local stations.” Mr Hooker said the road will also be a positive for residents who have family and friends in the region or like to shop and socialise in nearby suburbs. “This is a significant investment of over $16m to deliver this critical infrastructure, and it’s going to benefit a huge number of people across Victoria.” Mr Hooker praised Wyndham and Melton councils for backing the project and approving the road’s permits. “It’s a great example of how local governments can band together to help connect their communities and ease traffic congestion in the area.” Construction of the new road is expected to start between July and September and take about 12 months. Benjamin Millar

Water channel a new vital link

Designs for the new Melton Christian College campus in Toolern Vale. (Pictures: Supplied) Right: Principal David Gleeson on site. (Damjan Janevski) 235723_02

New campus meets growing demand Melton Christian College will help tackle the area’s booming education demand by opening a second campus in 2023. Construction of the new Toolern Vale campus is now under way, with works expected to be completed in time for the start of the 2023 school year. The Toolern Vale campus will commence with junior primary students, adding new classes year by year. The campus, being built on Coburns Road, will feature a full-sized gym and a multipurpose creative and performing arts room. While the majority of the works will be funded by the college, the state government has provided a grant that will cover about a third of

the cost of the initial development of stage one. Community liaison Louise Hansen said opening the Toolern Vale campus will mean the college will no longer have to turn so many families away due to capacity constraints. “We love our families and places at Melton Christian College are so sought after by parents for their children that we have not been able to accommodate the demand,” she said. “We desperately do not want to be turning families away, so increasing our capacity to nurture children will be perhaps the most exciting aspect of opening our new campus.” Ms Hansen said families in Melton and surrounding suburbs have been asking the school to expand the number of places available

for their children, so opening a new campus in 2023 will be the beginning of an opportunity to accept more students at the P-12 College. “Melton Christian College parents are insisting that our new Toolern Vale campus have just the same ‘vibe’ as our long-established Brookfield campus,” she said. “For 35 years, this school has been delivering consistently high quality development of children into respectful, responsible young adults – for our college community, the beginning of a new campus means more and more opportunities to do just that; grow great kids into great adults.”

A new cycling and walking route connecting the Lerderderg River and Werribee River corridors is in the pipeline. The “Aqualink” project is a proposed cycle route along the disused open water channel in Bacchus Marsh and Darley. The state and federal governments have provided $3.5 million towards the project, which is part of Moorabool council’s long-term strategic vision to provide better access to the area’s main attractions and services. Southern Rural Water’s recent upgrade and modernisation project has paved the way for the project by placing new piping underground and removing the need for the existing channel. The proposed 4.5-kilometre path network connecting the Lerderderg River and Werribee River corridors has been broken up into five stages, with work already under way on the Aqualink East path connecting Main Street to Bacchus Marsh train station. Moorabool and Southern Rural Water have been working together to finalise an agreement to be able to start construction on other sections. Feedback is also being sought from local residents and the broader Moorabool community to find out what else people would like to see included in the design of the project, including key landscaping elements. Details: haveyoursay.moorabool.vic. gov.au/aqualink Benjamin Millar

Benjamin Millar 9 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

A life less ordinary Multi-talented Mrinal Kanty Das has made it his life’s mission to share his passion for the creative arts with other people. He talks with Alesha Capone.

he Hoppers Crossing resident is extensively involved with the community as a volunteer and performer, plus through exhibitions of his work. Das – who described himself as a painter, free lens photographer, singer, lyricist and composer – was born in a small riverside town in Bangladesh, Chandpur, in 1973. “I inherited my artistic fervour from my family,” Das said. “My grandfather was a folk singer. He used to sing religious songs in local religious festivals.” Das completed a bachelor of fine arts (painting) and master of fine arts (painting) at the University of Chittagong, and went on to work at an advertising agency in Bangladesh for 15 years. He moved to Melbourne in 2015, and works as a graphic designer at Adjust Graphix. “At the very beginning, I came to Australia to accompany my wife who came here to study her second masters degree in Monash University,” he said. “Our two kids also came with us, and they just fell in love with the lifestyle here, especially of the freedom that they enjoyed here regarding their career selection and many other issues. “My brother and sister live in Werribee and Hoppers Crossing. The Wyndham people are very cultural-minded. The Bangladeshi community is quite large here and they are quite active and friendly. “The multi-cultural environment in Australia attracts me most.” Das is an art teacher at the Victorian Bangladeshi Community Foundation (VBCF) and Nuer Community Foundation, which works with South Sudanese-Australians. “Painting is my academic and professional interest,” he said. “Photography is one of my passions. I love to see the world through my lenses, which allow me to discover the multiple layers of beauty.” Das also runs a voluntary art venture, a social platform named Colour Buds, through which he helps children from underprivileged and refugee families learn painting and drawing. “I work with community groups who work with these children, and my focus is on the mental development of the traumatised kids who have become frustrated and desperate, as they have undergone much distress at such early stages of their lives,” he said. “I also have a plan to establish a virtual art

10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

7 2

1/ Mrinal Kanty Das performs. 2/ On stage with Bangladeshi children. 3/ Working with children in his Colour Buds program. Artwork by Mrinal Kanty Das: 4/ Photograph Immersion. 5/ Photograh Eye. 6/ Painting Apostles Discoursing Maternity. 7/ Painting Mother Nature. 8/ Painting Uluru, Mothering Civilization. (Pictures: Supplied) gallery for kids, under Colour Buds, which will showcase kid’s art work for free.” In the musical sphere, Das is one of two founders of the Bangladeshi folk band BAULA Bangladesh and one of its lead vocalists. He also wrote the musical piece Tumi chaia dekho for the movie Shuttle Train, a full-length film directed by Pradip Ghosh. The lyrics and tune of the song are by Das and the arrangement was by music director Binod Roy. In December, the Bangladeshi Ministry of Cultural Affairs announced Das as winner of

the 2019 Bangladesh National Film Award in the Best Singer Category (Male). Das said that winning the award was “an extraordinary experience”. “I never expected that I would ever be awarded with such a big honour,” he said. Das said the song first came into his mind when he was travelling with his wife in a ricksaw, in Bangladesh. “My wife instantly recorded the song on her phone, and the rest is history.” “I feel that writing is an inherent quality in me. Words come to me spontaneously, no

matter what environment I am in, words just pop up in my mind along with the tune.” In the future, Das hopes to work with fusion music by composing multilingual songs. “I have already created a platform from our company, Adjust Graphix, a recording studio called Adjust Tunes from which we will record and publish songs by local singers,” he said. Details: https://www.facebook.com/ mrinal71/, https://www.facebook.com/ mrinalkantydas, mrinalbiplob.wixsite.com/ mrinalkantydas, www.colourbuds.com, www. facebook.com/colourbud

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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.

Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea

Club, Reserve Road, Melton. 0417 512 420

St Paul’s Anglican Church will host a biggest morning tea on Thursday, May 27 at 10am in the Masonic Lodge Hall, corner Fisher and Aitken streets, Gisborne. Admission by donation, with all proceeds to Cancer Council. Local natropath Leisa Blanch will be the speaker. ■ Elaine, 5428 2522

■ Suzanne,

Garden club The Sunbury Garden Club meets on the first Tuesday of every month. There is a guest speaker at each meeting, which starts at 7.30pm at the Sunbury Football Club. ■ Cheryl, 9744 1663

My Social Club Diabetes support

An 18+ not-for-profit disability recreation, sports and social sub-branch of “Rainbow Club Point Cook Inc”. Meets every 3rd Friday at local venues for meals and social interaction. Members plan their own adventues. Membership fee is NDIS funded. ■ www.mysocialclub.org.au, email: social@ rainbowclub.org.au or call 0414 384 557 during business hours

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

Women’s mental health support The women’s mental health support group meets at Melton South Community Centre, Exford Road, every Monday, excluding public holidays, from 1-2.30pm. The group is run by a qualified counsellor. Come along for a chat and a cuppa in a confidential setting. ■ Val, 0418 667 150

Fundraising stalls The Werribee Ladies for Kids Auxiliary for the Royal Children’s Hospital will run fundraising stalls at MADE on Watton, May 27-30. Items for sale will include knitted blankets, toys, teddy bears, jumpers, tea towels and rugs.

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

Book Sale 10am - 1pm, Tuesday June 1, Friday, June 4 and Saturday, June 5. Rear of Altona Library 123 Queen Street Altona, access via Coles carpark.

Art show The Woodend Art Group art show promises an exciting exhibition of paintings, sculpture, woodwork, textiles and much more on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, June 12-14. 10-4pm daily. Entry by gold coin donation. ■ http://www.woodendartgroup.org.au

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/

Melton South Knit & Natter

Through the lens Nine-year-old Akshara, who makes candles to raise money for a local foodbank, is a shining light for her community. So it is fitting that the only light source needed to make this photo stand out was that of a candle. (Picture: Damjan Janevski)

performance of Matilda Jr. Performances on July 22, 23 and 24 at St Aloysius College Hall, 31 Curran Street, North Melbourne. Tickets on sale now.

Willy Lit Fest Have you seen the program for this year’s Williamstown Literature Festival yet? There’s something for everybody from June 18-20. Hear from renowned authors such as Cassandra Pybus, Sofie Laguna and Nardi Simpson, or learn how to get your masterpiece published in a special Fremantle Press workshop. ■ https://www.willylitfest.org.au/home/ festivalintro/program/

Newport Folk Festival The Newport Folk Festival is on June 25-27. Plenty of opportunities for all musical instruments, interests, tastes and for children to participate, and a mouth-watering performance program covering many musical genres. ■ https://newportfolkfestival.org.au

School holiday program Unleash your inner scientist these school holidays at St Aloysius College, STEMies program. Open to boys and girls from grades 4-6. June 28 and 29. ■ www.aloysius.vic.edu.au

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

Dutch language classes Victorian School of Languages has opened enrolment for Dutch language classes for children prep-10 in Altona North. With enough interest, classes will start from term 3. ■ www.vsl.vic.edu.au

Tarot reading Learn to read cards with ease and explore the world of tarot in Melton South Community Centre’s tarot card reading for beginners course. No experience needed. BYO tarot deck. Cost: $80 or $75 concession. ■ 9747 8576

Sewing group The Sunbury Neighborhood House Social Sewing Group meets on the first Saturday of each month to chat, share ideas and sew. Beginners through experienced welcome. Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury 12.30-3.30pm.

volunteer program in the Werribee and Point Cook areas to visit elderly residents. A female volunteer with an understanding of MS is also sought to visit a mature lady in aged care in Altona Meadows. ■ volunteer@ms.org.au or Sue, 9845 2744

The magic of Roald Dahl will be brought to life on stage with the St Aloysius College

The Multiple Sclerosis Community Visitors Scheme is seeking female Maltese and Italian-speaking volunteers to join its

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

Playing cards, making friends

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

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

Deer Park probus

Conservation volunteers

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

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

Women’s choir

Altona North combined probus The Altona North combined probus club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere. ■ Lesley, 9369 1785

Volunteers wanted Stage show

AL-ANON meets

Zonta club meets The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country

Senior citizens club 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 and would like to meet new people, come along. ■ Don, 9744 3507 11 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Out and about Bringing communities together was key at special events throughout the region. Sunbury Cobaw Community Health flew the flag for International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism and Transphobia, while Brimbank lit up the sky in celebration of its new Civic Green.

(Pictures: Sunbury Cobaw Community Health; Brimbank City Council) 12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

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FEATURING ... EDUCATION CHOICES

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“Wonderfully made” young people David Gleeson, principal of Melton Christian College, says that some young people struggle to see themselves as worthwhile – and that this is a tragedy. “Melton Christian College is committed to changing such wrong thinking because every young person is priceless,” he says. “A Christian school looks to the Christian Bible for its values. “Among the Bible’s ancient wisdom is a marvellous prayer, written hundreds of years ago by a desert dwelling warrior-poet: “You created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” “These stirring words are so true. People, including young people, are indeed, “fearfully and wonderfully made”. “Even Shakespeare confirms the same idea: “What a piece of work is a person! How noble in reason, how infinite in faculty! In form and moving how express and admirable! In action how like an Angel, in apprehension how like a god! The beauty of the world.” “We are wonderfully constructed. It is right to be astounded at this breathtaking, breath-giving quintessence of molecules.” Mr Gleeson poses the question, “So why do some teenagers fall into the trap of seeing themselves as worthless? “Sadly, teenagers hear all sorts of rotten messages from social and mainstream media. Kids are bombarded with lies. “Truth is shouted down and children can drown in untruth. False messages abound, telling precious teens they are not perfect enough, their bodies are not beautiful enough, their words not clever enough.” Melton Christian College, he notes, has a different message. “This school’s message to teenagers is that

Principal David Gleeson with college students. (Supplied)

their Creator has made them, and that they are loved, just as they are. Parents and teachers at this school invest

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15 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 030

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

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

9 8 2 7

4 8 3 6

Parisian lady (11) Male sheep (3) Wielding (11) Rule (3) Happening in a way not expected (6) Flower merchants (8) Indifference (6) Implicate (8) Individuality (8) Look at (6) Number comprehension (8) Swiss city (6) Weapon (3) Meeting (11) Indian state (3) Infamously (11)

12 14 15 18 20 22 24 26 27 28 29

3 4 5 6 7 8 13 16 17 19 21 23 25 26

No. 030

Water creature (7) Wimp (4) Greater part of a country (8) African country (7) Actor's parts (5) Cat noise (3) Persistently (11) Inelegant (9) Slow cooking vessel (8) Region (7) Modern music genre (7) Japanese cartoon style (5) Row (4) Concert (3)

DOWN

ACROSS 1 7 9 10 11

Lie (11) Dry up (9)

1 2

medium

QUICK CROSSWORD

DECODER

No. 030

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

2 3 5

10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

Q T 18

4 LETTERS ANAL AWAY DRAW DREW DYES GAPS GEAR GETS HERS NAYS ROSE SEEK SEWS STUD

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: 9 words: Good 14 words: Very good 19 words: Excellent

D B

No. 030

5 LETTERS AGILE APART ARISE ASIDE ATLAS AZURE BELIE DELTA DITTO DOSES DOZED EASEL EASES EATER EDGES ENEMA ERASE EVENT GALAS GRABS

INANE INLAY ITEMS LUSTS NAPPY OCTAL OGLES PUPAE PUREE RASPS RENEW RINSE SLEEK SLEPT SLOWS SMELL SNARE SOURS SPARK SPECS SPICE

STARE SWEPT TAPER THREW TIRES UNITE USAGE WADES WANNA 6 LETTERS KEENED RECOIL SETTER VERGED

7 LETTERS DEPLORE MEMENTO NEEDING ORDERLY STATELY URANIUM 8 LETTERS ESPECIAL PARALYSE REGATTAS SADDENED

bedel, bled, bleed, BLUBBERED, bred, breed, bubbled, burbled, deer, drub, ebbed, elder, elude, lured, reed, rubbed, rude, rued, ruled

7 8 2 6 3 5 1 9 4

9 2 6 8 7 5 1 3 4

3 7 8 9 4 1 2 6 5

1 4 5 2 3 6 8 9 7

4 8 1 3 9 2 5 7 6

7 9 2 5 6 4 3 1 8

5 6 3 1 8 7 9 4 2

6 5 9 7 2 3 4 8 1

8 1 7 4 5 9 6 2 3

2 3 4 6 1 8 7 5 9

3 9 1 8 4 7 2 5 6

4 5 6 1 2 9 7 3 8

8 7 9 3 6 4 5 2 1

5 1 3 7 8 2 4 6 9

6 2 4 9 5 1 8 7 3

1 6 8 2 7 3 9 4 5

9 4 7 5 1 6 3 8 2

2 3 5 4 9 8 6 1 7

3 8 1 2 4 9 5 7 6

4 7 6 5 1 8 9 3 2

5 9 2 7 3 6 4 1 8

9 2 5 6 8 3 1 4 7

7 1 8 4 9 5 6 2 3

6 4 3 1 7 2 8 5 9

1 5 9 3 6 7 2 8 4

8 3 4 9 2 1 7 6 5

2 6 7 8 5 4 3 9 1

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

hard

medium

easy

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

3 LETTERS ACT ARE AVO CER DIE EAR GNU HER NOD ODD OHS OVA PET POT RAG RAS RAT RIP RUT SAC SEW TEE TOE TWO

D J AN S U I L COK B Y

P R E XWZ V GMH F Q T

5 9 9

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G6425413AA-dc5Nov

www.rosscoengineering.com.au

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING

V Fencing & Gates

REPAIR, SUPPLY AND INSTALLATIONS ฀ ฀

MEL FENCING Colorbond, Tubular & Timber Fencing & Gates

Ph Sergio 0431 649 907

12416765-SN19-19

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.

Homes

Call 1300 666 808

12420493-CG25-19

8348 5441

0412 184 772

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2 084 469 or 97 47 1999

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12401756-CG42-18

FUSSY FURNITURE REMOVALS Reliable & Experienced Removalist | 2 men - from $85 per hour.

12398667-SN37-18

12435708-LB03-20

Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.

V Awnings, Blinds & Curtains

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

V Furniture Removals

From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week.

Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

12362816-ACM35-17

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS (1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local ofﬁce)

12486218-CG12-21

We accept payment by:

Deadline for all classiﬁcations is 1:30pm Monday.

FARM FENCING

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

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JAD HEATING AND COOLING ฀

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12444058-SN11-20

(include your name, address and phone number)

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Place Your Classified Ads Online Your advert will appear in print and online! 17 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

General Classifieds

$100/ 30mins Open 7 days 48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B

G6519072AA-dc21Jan

V Massage Therapists

REBLOCKING & UNDERPINNING

David: 0425 811 882 Ash: 0403 619 333

FIVE STAR REBLOCKING & UNDERPINNING

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

Imagine yourself in Bali

9309 0700 - 0411 174 000

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

V Refrigeration

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12423634-SN31-19

12327446-LN42-16

Melton Tree & Stump Removals

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Earn upto $3,500 per week. Must have own van and equipment. Call 9826 1111 or 0415 326 685.

Carpet Steam Cleaner

Celebrations

st er st an ds A TEACHER Available for fir m tutoring. Mathematics, Science, Chemistry, Chi- n nese and Japanese. Phone cil in 0418 871 203 a

V Tuition

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

V Bookkeeping BOOKKEEPING Services Jay- 0452 373 218 Bacchus Marsh area.

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HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS

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

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MOTOR

Seriously sporty

By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring Somehow it doesn’t seem right that a large Audi SUV should have received the RS (Racing Sport) treatment. But when you stop and think about it the German automaker has been in the forefront of high-performance vehicles for many years. Since it launched the famed quattro way back in the late 1980s. Audi RS Q8 says it’s a masterpiece of engineering that can be used on racetracks as well as in off-road conditions. Hopefully the off-road feature is restricted to exploring the great Australian outback and doesn’t refer to off-road on racetracks… We have just spent an enjoyable week behind the wheel of the hottest, biggest Audi of them all, the RS Q8.

Styling There’s nothing shy and retiring about the Audi RS Q8. It has wider guards by 10mm at the front and 5mm at the rear. This not only makes space for 23-inch alloy wheels but also adds to the I-am-very-serious statement. The blackout treatment of the grille and air intakes gives it a tough look. As an aside, there are no cosmetic vents - all intakes serve a function. A slim roof-mounted spoiler tells drivers of cars that have just been overtaken that an Audi RS means business. The rear diffuser is finished in a honeycomb pattern. The huge two massive oval tailpipes not only look good but put out the right sounds, more about this in the Driving section of this test.

Interior The RS Q8 sports seats are finished in perforated leather with the signature RS honeycomb-pattern stitching. The front seats are heated and cooled, the rears have heating only. All three rear seats are large and comfortable. They slide fore and aft to let you juggle the passenger / luggage space. What seems to be the standard Audi instrument binnacle looks tiny in the big Q8, with the rest of the dash being extra wide to fill in the rest of the space.

Infotainment A top-end B&O sound system produces excellent musical entertainment. The RS Q8 has Audi’s MMI navigation plus infotainment

There’s no doubt this is serious sporting SUV with its black treatment and pumped guards. (Pictures: Supplied)

system that’s operated by a large integrated touchscreen that’s easy to use. As always, we caution drivers about using these systems while their car is moving. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, while the intelligent navigation suggests route guidance based on your previous trips.

Engines / transmissions The Audi twin turbo 4.0 V8 engine produces 600 horsepower, or in our metric language 441kW. Then there’s the stump pulling 800 Nm of torque. You can leap from zero to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds - in an SUV ! Audi’s eight-speed automatic has been uprated to handle the extra grunt and to provide very sharp shifts to keep it keep the power coming. Drive is sent to all four wheels in a 40:60 ratio (front:rear) in normal driving. There’s a mechanical centre differential can send the four wheels between 70:30 or 15:85 to adjust to driving and road conditions.

Safety The big Audi Q8 has a full range of occupant protection systems should the car still crash. There’s plenty of equipment to keep drivers out of trouble if they’re paying more attention to emails and texts than their driving.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Q8 3.0 TDI: $129,600 Q8 3.0 55 TFSI: $130,200 SQ8 4.0 TD V8: $166,500 RS Q8 TFSI: $208,500

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

Driving Isn’t it a shame we still have these silly low speed limits on Australian motorways? We’ve spent many a happy day on German autobahns and noticed that Audis of all sizes and types are the biggest inhabitants of the fast lanes. The virtual Audi Cockpit has extra RS information for the sporting driver; a g-meter, torque and power output dials, as well as shift lights when you’re driving in manual mode. There are eight drive modes; Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Efficiency, Allroad, and Off-road. Keen drivers who really know their stuff can tailor their RS Q8 to their precise needs, altering engine and transmission mapping, steering, the air suspension and even the sound of the engine. At low speed, the rear wheels turn five

degrees in the opposite direction to the front. This makes it more maneuverable in tight spaces such as tight car parks. In normal diving the rear wheels turn 1.5 degrees in the same direction as the fronts to improve handling. The air suspension, which can vary ride height by up to 90 mm. As low as 40mm for when you want to get sporty. It’s probably best use only on racetracks. Or you can lift to 200mm of ground clearance should you wish to exploit the RS Q8’s off-road abilities. Cornering is precise and the big Audi provides good feedback and lets you know when it’s starting to feel uncomfortable - which is at far higher speeds than you anticipate. It does like a drink. Around town and in the suburbs, we were looking at numbers in the 15 to18 litres per hundred kilometres. Okay, it’s a big heavy vehicle but we had expected better than this. Country running saw it drop to 11 to 13 litres. On motorways it came under 10 litres per hundred kilometres.

Summing up Audi RS Q8 is an SUV for all reasons. It looks and sounds great, eats up the miles effortlessly and isn’t overly expensive for its class. And if you’re paying $208,500 plus on-roads the fact that the big V8 chews into the juice isn’t really a handicap. 19 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

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Gath stable brings home a treble By Michael Howard Victoria’s harness racing headquarters proved a night out for the locals with the Gath stable producing a treble and both young and old breaking through. While Andy and Kate Gath were a dominant force in the winners’ circle with the Long Forrest stable scoring with Arden Voyager, Justamollyarcher and Monaro Maro, it was arguably their stablehand Jordan Leedham and Lance Justice’s old warrior, Love Ina Chevy, who stole the headlines. Leedham, 18, brought up his first metropolitan win when he scored on Boy From Bondi for Wayne Potter. Then, two races later, a horse half the young reinsman’s age broke through for a 28th win in his 161st start. Love Ina Chevy has long been celebrated for his miracle comeback from a snakebite and Justice’s nine-year-old gelding on Saturday broke through for his first win since August 28 when he pipped Sirletic to win the Rokon Pty Ltd. Justice said while it was clear the stable favourite was getting on in age he still loved to run. “This afternoon he was out in the paddock and I looked at him and thought retirement for this old fella, but … he loves to race, he’s sound, he’s well, his track work has been enormous,” he told Trots Vision. On Saturday, Love Ina Chevy sat three back on the fence as the field settled into single file behind leader and favourite Boncel Benjamin, who cracked open the race with a 29-second second quarter. He looked to be en route to victory but Sirletic and Love Ina Chevy boxed on, with the latter narrowly scoring by a half-head.

Arden Voyager out in front. (Stuart McCormick)

It was a similar margin in the night’s headline trotting race, the TAB Derby Royale Trotters Free For All, when Andy Gath’s mare Monaro Maro continued her outstanding record after finding the front. Reinswoman Kate Gath attacked from the gate to gain control of the race, with her main danger, Sparkling Success, soon looming to her outside and it would become a race in two. Sparkling Success was valiant, but the mare had the answers tonight and recorded her 12th

win since crossing the Tasman to join Gath’s stable. “She does like to be out in front and running pretty solid and she held Sparkling Success on the line pretty comfortably,” Kate Gath told Trots Vision. “She can run pretty good time. She’s just got better and better and she’s definitely developed into a pretty nice mare.” The night also featured a big result for Leigh Graham with the Bendigo trainer’s five-year-old Nephew Of Sonoko breaking

through for the first time in 12 months for the richest win of his 70-start career. In the keenly contested Aldebaran Park Vicbred Platinum Metropolitan Trot Final, a $30,000 Group 2, Nephew Of Sonoko had to do it tough, having moved to the breeze with a lap, sitting outside favourite Anywhere Hugo. The front pair separated from the field amid a 29.6s third quarter and in a 28.7s sprint home Nephew Of Sonoko cleared out for reinsman James Herbertson to win by 3.5 metres.

SPORTS QUIZ 1. From which tournament did Ash Barty retire injured in the quarterfinals recently?

6. What team will the Australian Cricket Team play on an overseas tour in July?

2. Who won the 2020–21 FA Cup?

7. Which country has won the most Olympic table tennis medals?

3. In which AFL season did the Lions play their last AFL game as Fitzroy? 4. Which Super Rugby team has won the most championships?

8. What is a period of play in a polo match known as?

5. What Australian city will be home to a new state-of-the-art football facility for the Matildas?

9. The Major League Baseball World Series is a best-of how many games? 10. What NBA star was known by the nickname by Dr J? 11. Where was the 2018 FIFA World Cup held?

Ben Simmons 2805

12. Which Australian basketball player holds the record for most points scored in a single WNBA game, with 53?

13. The Australian Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing consists of winning the Randwick Guineas, Rosehill Guineas and which other race?

Andrew Hoy

14. Which two years did Pat Rafter win the US Open? 15. Who won the first rugby league State Of Origin match played at the MCG in June 1994? 16. What year was Collingwood player Dane Swan awarded the Brownlow Medal? 17. What sport do the Newcastle Northstars and CBR Brave both play? 18. Which Australian golf professional shot a final round of 59 to win the 2010 Greenbrier Classic by one stroke? 19. What was the name of the racing yacht that won the 1983 America’s Cup for the Royal Perth Yacht Club? 20. How many games did the Penrith Panthers win out of their first 10 games of the 2021 NRL season?

21. Which team does leading A-League goal scorer Jamie Maclaren play for?

27. Rachael Sporn holds the record for most career points and rebounds in which sporting league?

22. How many times has Ben Simmons been named an NBA All-Star?

28. Australian equestrian rider Andrew Hoy has competed in how many Olympic Games?

23. What is the national sport of the Netherlands? 24. What sport returned to the Olympics in 2016 after a 112-year absence? 25. What country with the Australian Cricket Team play in a one-off test in November 2021?

29. Grace Hamilton is the current captain of which Australian national team? 30. Which Australian athlete lit the Olympic cauldron at the 2000 Sydney Olympics?

26. Which martial art is set to debut as an Olympic sport in Tokyo this year?

1. Italian Open 2. Leicester City 3. 1996 4. Crusaders 5. Melbourne 6. West Indies 7. China 8. Chukka 9. Best of Seven 10. Julius Erving 11. Russia 12. Liz Cambage 13. Australian Derby 14. 1997 and 1998 15. New South Wales 16. 2011 17. Ice hockey 18. Stuart Appleby 19. Australia II 20. 10 21. Melbourne City FC 2. Three 23. Hockey 24. Golf 25. Afghanistan 26. Karate 27. WNBL 28. Seven 29. Women’s National Rugby Team 30. Cathy Freeman

20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

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SPORT

Duncan hits the road By Peter Howe What made a young Werribee man with a passion for tennis head overseas for seven months during a global pandemic? For 18-year-old Dwaine Duncan, it’s a single-minded focus to win the Australian Open. When we spoke it was on a freezing cold Monday night and he was being driven home from another eight hour day of tennis practice by his mother and was headed straight for an ice bath. This has become the daily routine for the teenager.

‘‘

I could feel this sport was meant for me

’’

- Dwaine Duncan “I left MacKillop College halfway through year 11 because [I was] trying to mix school, homework and family commitments with tennis,” he said. “It just didn’t give me enough time on the courts to practice and hone my skills. “I spend four hours on court each day practicing my skills either in a one-on-one with my coach or with my squad completing drills. I then spend an hour to an hour and a half doing either running or gym-work. “They are full-on days, but it’s where you learn your lessons on strategy and resilience.” Duncan’s love of tennis began when he was just four-years-old. His mother, Lisa, an avid tennis player and local pennant champion, put a racquet into his hands and he immediately fell in love with the sport. “I could feel this sport was meant for me,” he said. Duncan has spent many years on the Australian circuit competing in, and winning, many tournaments along the way. Now he’s

Dwaine Duncan. (Supplied)

confident he’s ready for the next step – the rest of the world. Duncan has played and been coached at Altona, Hoppers Crossing and Laverton Park tennis clubs. Hoppers Crossing tennis’ Ryan Meehan was instrumental in his junior years, while the Laverton Park team of Vuk Skadarka and Stefan Skadarka, along with Australian Alpha Tennis Academy’s Tomislav Fadljevic are the

key players in his team now. “We are one big family with all the same goals,” Duncan said. His first aim is to qualify for an International Tennis Federation tournament and secure an ITF point to gain a world men’s ranking. That was behind his decision to head overseas last year. It was no small feat when competing against the world’s best. Before heading overseas in September, he

was number two in Victoria and number 10 in Australia in his age group. Overall in Australia, he was the 172nd ranked male. Duncan’s best ranking is 1400 in the world in his age group but he sees that hurdle disappearing quickly. He played tournaments in Germany, Netherlands, France, Greece, Turkey, Indonesia, Croatia, Cypress and Tunisia last year. Duncan had some good wins against ranked players while overseas but he said the trip was more for the experience and understanding the European standard. “Many countries were in lockdown because of COVID, but tennis tournaments continued,” he said. “I was either on my own in these countries or with the remainder of the squad in Germany. “I don’t get homesick, the trip taught me to become organised, on time and self reliant. I loved the culture in these countries and really enjoyed playing tennis in these centres.” At 182 centimetres, Duncan, who is part of the Tennis Australia’s national academy squad, sees his forehand as his biggest strength. “I see myself as an aggressive base liner,” he said. “I don’t model myself on any modern day player but I would like to think I can become a fighter like Rafa Nadal, serve like Alexander Zverev and play my backhand like Novak Djokovic. “My forehand however is unique to me.” Duncan has his sights set high and as the May winner of the Don Deeble Sports Star Award, the Sunshine Western Region Sports Club is right behind him. The award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank and the Deer Park Club. If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner at the Medway Golf Club, contact the club by emailing swrsportsclub@gmail.com or sms 0408 556 631.

Spotswood is on the move Spotswood’s focus on its juniors is behind the club’s decision to move it’s senior teams to the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association. The VSDCA committee announced last week that the competition would increase by four clubs, taking the number of clubs to 32. There will be a new club in each of the four conferences, with Donvale, Port Melbourne and Strathmore joining Spotswood in moving to the competition. Spotswood president John Wheeler said they had been speaking about the move for the past couple of years. Spotswood had been playing in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 1. It was in the top division as recently as 2018-19. “We’re really happy about it,” Wheeler said of the move. “It’s been a bit of a process. We had a good chat about it two years ago with the senior club and wanting to play at the highest level. “It’s always hard in the VTCA with promotion and regulation as it puts the young blokes under pressure straight away, without being able to build that growth. “We want to be able to play the young guys and have some experienced players around them.“ Wheeler said in recent times the club had lost many juniors because it didn’t have a pathway system. Nearby clubs include Victorian Premier Cricket side Footscray and subbies sides, Williamstown, Yarraville and Altona. The junior program will also benefit the club, which will have a side in the VSDCA Craig Shield competition, something most young

players aspire to be a part of. “We thought about the junior program and we found we were losing some kids who were going into pathway cricket,” Wheeler said. “We had put a lot of time into them. We want to strengthen the club from the bottom up and set ourselves up for the future. “We’ve been focusing on pushing junior players into the seniors. Max Buck, who has only been playing for five years, finished among the top bowlers in the division. “It’s fantastic to see young kids coming through like that.” Wheeler said they had 35 to 40 children in the Woolworths Cricket Blast program this year, which is a promising sign for the future. The news comes as the club’s new changerooms are set to be ready later this year. Wheeler said following upgrades the club’s ground and facilities will be among some of the best in Melbourne. The VTCA has already released a draft fixture for next season, following the departures of Spotswood and Strathmore. Aberfeldie looks set to survive relegation from the senior division with the departure of Strathmore. Craigieburn, the division 1 premiers, will be promoted. In division 1, Altona Roosters have been promoted after winning division 2, while Glenroy will be relegated. Tara Murray Spotswood’s Matthew Sazenis. (Shawn Smits) 21 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Bring it on The competition is heating up in the Western Region Football League. Point Cook Centrals and Newport battled it out in division 2 at the weekend. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski caught some of the action.

3 1

6 22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

1/ Newport’s Saad Ali is airborne as he grabs for the ball. 2/ Newport’s Anes Abdou positions himself for a mark. 3/ Point Cook’s Max Pritchard gets hands to the ball first. 4/ Point Cook’s Kwar Ater contests a mark. 5/ Point Cook players celebrate. 6/ Saad Ali is at it again. 7/ Michael Szulc reacts after kicking a goal. 8/ Max Pritchard taps the ball away. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 238220

SPORT Big-hearted coach takes reins at Melton

Kelvin Bowers is taking on roles as Melton Basketball’s new director of coaching and Big V Men’s team coach. (Shawn Smits)

For Kelvin Bowers, basketball is so much more than a game. Since arriving in Australia from Los Anageles in 1986 to play with the Gippsland Lakers, Bowers has built a reputation as a player and leader with a big game and a bigger heart. After recent stints at the Hume City Broncos and as part of the Helping Hoops program, Bowers is now set to embark on one of his biggest challenges yet – taking on roles as Melton Basketball’s new director of coaching and Big V Men’s team coach. He told Star Weekly he is relishing the opportunity to continue his journey in Australian basketball and reshape Melton Basketball for the better. “I‘ve been very, very blessed to have a great career in coaching,” he said. “Basketball has grown in leaps and bounds since my arrival here, the talent is just off the hooks in both the men’s and women’s games.”

Bowers said the game is continuing an upward trajectory that already has a number of Australians competing in the highly competitive US College system and some even cracking the holy grail of the NBA. “There are many, many Australians playing at college level now and young players aspiring to play college basketball,” he said. “Education is key, and that is a big, big thing for me when I’m talking to young kids – you’ve got to have a plan B and see the benefits of having an education that can open up doors.” As seriously as he takes basketball as a game, the thing that keeps Bowers involved at the coalface is seeing what it brings to the young people involved. “I truly believe that basketball is a vehicle to help young kids on their journey in life,” he said. “It teaches you more than just the skills, it teaches about life – it’s much more to me than just sport, I do see it as a way to help young kids

stay on the right path and attain their goals.” Bowers said a number of young players he has nurtured through their earlier years have gone on to play at the highest level both locally and abroad, making him feel lucky and proud to have been part of that journey. “I smile when I see that some of them were just ruffians and now they are fine young women and men and they are passing the same experiences in their life to their own children,” he said. “It’s an amazing feeling, I feel it’s what I feel I was put on this earth to do. Basketball has been a part of my life almost all my life and I want to pass on that feeling of self-belief and commitment to the kids, for them to tell themselves ‘you are strong and have to believe in yourself and commit to everything you want to do’.” Benjamin Millar

Rams slowly building

The Bacchus Marsh seniors team has recorded back-to-back wins to secure third place on the Ballarat Football League ladder. (Supplied)

Cobras go back-to-back By Benjamin Millar The Bacchus Marsh senior men’s team has thrown off a shaky start to the season by chalking up back-to-back dominant displays to settle into third place on the Ballarat Football League ladder. The Cobras went into a round six bye following a dominant performance against Redan at City Oval last weekend, keeping the Lions goaless beyond the opening minute in a 55-point drubbing (10.13 (73) - 1.12 (18)). A week earlier Bacchus Marsh had dispatched reigning dual premiers East Point in a 31-point win 13.9 (87) - 8.8 (56)) at Maddingley Park despite conceding the first three goals of the game. The Cobras now sit at 3-2, racking up 351 points and conceding a miserly 265 – the league’s best defence helping deliver a 132.45 for-against percentage, bettered only by ladder-leaders Melton. Playing coach Tom German said the wins show the team is starting to gel. “We’re coming together off a year without

football and with a new coach and new players, but we’re really starting to gel,” he said. “I’ve been really happy with the defensive efforts of all the backs we’ve got down there, at the other end the forwards and the mids are starting to put the pressure on and we’re starting to play some good footy.” After playing with Mansfield in the Goulburn Valley League, German joined Bacchus Marsh at the start of last year only to see the COVID-19 pandemic force the cancellation of the BFL season. The midfielder said returning to the game this season after a frustrating year on the sidelines posed a challenge for players striving to be at full match fitness and the top of their games. “When you’ve had a year off it’s difficult, we’ve had a couple of injuries, as every side across the league has, but we’ll have a few players come back this week and be back to full stretch.” German said despite the disappointment of the abandoned season, the team stayed in touch and hit the field this year determined to make up for lost time.

“We had a pretty good list and coming into the season we just had to show it out on the field,” he said. German’s philosophy as a coach has been to develop a “team first” mentality and for that to show in every aspect of the club’s culture. “All the guys are there for the team, I can see just the excitement of that coming together,” he said.,“We have some really good experience, [playing assistant coach] Ryan Bartlett has been a real general down the back there which has been great.” While happy with the team’s recent form, German isn’t getting too far ahead of himself in making predictions about the team’s run towards the finals. “We want to get a few more runs on the board, we just want to keep playing the brand of football we are playing,” he said.,“We have some pretty sore bodies, so in that regard the bye was been well placed, but we’ve got to head up to North Ballarat this weekend and they’ve had a good start to the season.” • Bacchus Marsh vs North Ballarat kicks off at 2.15pm Saturday at Mars Stadium.

Results don’t tell the whole story for the Western Rams in the Riddell District Football League this season. With a brand new side and a first year coach, the Rams are yet to taste success on the scoreboard. But coach Marty Weaver said there has been some good signs. “We know where we are at,” he said. “It’s going to be a long journey for us and we’re looking to rebuild the culture on and off field. “We are looking at a five year rebuild, not just a five round rebuild. We’ve got good numbers of the track and more coming along all the time. “We’ve got good people in the club.” Weaver said they focused on their defensive game early in the season and would now turn more attention to the attacking side. He said they were getting opportunities inside 50 but hadn’t been able to make the most of them. “We missed some opportunities against Melton Centrals and Lancefield,” he said. “We were shell-shocked from the start. “Against Riddell, we had 15 inside 50s, but couldn’t take a mark. We had eight drop outs from our side that we selected on Thursday and four were forwards who are in our top 22. “We’re seeing signs of how we want to play coming through. We’re now going to play a more attacking style and see what we can do.” Weaver said one of the biggest issues the side had this season, is not being able to get consistency. Each week, they were having players who are selected on Thursday nights, pull out before the game. The side is also completely different from 2019, when they last took to the field. “It’s 85 to 90 per cent different from last time we played,” he said. “In this week’s game, there’s just two existing players [from 2019] that have been named.” On Saturday, the Rams fell short against Woodend-Hesket. The Rams led at half-time, but kicked just one goal in the second half, losing 7.17 (59)-5.7 (37). Kristan Vance was named Rams’ best. Tara Murray 23 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 25 May, 2021

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