Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 22nd June 2021

Established in 1924 as the

proudly serving Brimbank and the North West

22 JUNE, 2021

Established in 1924 as the

proudly serving Brimbank and the North West

22 JUNE, 2021

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SIG N U P N O W!

(Tara Murray)

Living the dream Sisters Giselle and Olympia are living every child’s dream as toy testers for Big W. The Keilor girls are part of Big W’s toy squad, testing toys ahead of the store’s annual toy sale which launched last week.

Their mum Danielle Koulouriotis, said she is a big fan of Big W and was approached by them for the girls to be involved.

“Obviously, I knew the girls would jump at the chance of being toy testers,” she said.

“The girls were very excited. They already have a huge collection of toys at home, but I knew they would be over the moon by the idea of toy testing even more to help BIG W get an idea of some of the favourites in time for the sale.

“I think it’s safe to say, for all of us it was like being in Disneyland. They had so many options of things to play with and were so happy for days after.”

Ms Koulouriotis said Giselle and Olympia loved dolls and playsets, along with some more unusual toys.

“They have never seen Star Wars, but they were taken with the baby yoda and thought him very cute” OLYMPIA AND GISELLE

Tara Murray

Fight for rail ‘promises’

By Tara Murray Brimbank council is seeking assurances that the municipality won’t be forgotten in the Melbourne Airport Rail Link, as more details about the project emerge.

Expressions of interest for construction of the first stage of the rail link were recently opened, with the scope of works to be undertaken revealed.

The plans include a new bridge over the Maribyrnong River and elevated twin tracks between Sunshine and Albion Junction but there was no mention of the Sunshine Super Transport Hub.

The works at Sunshine station will include a new accessible pedestrian concourse that will enable transfers at either end of the platforms.

More lifts will be built.

At Albion station, there will be upgrades to the carpark and forecourts.

At last week’s council meeting, mayor Ranka Rasic launched a campaign calling for the state government to reconsider the Albion flyover, to redevelop Sunshine station into a regional super hub and reconstruct Albion station.

It is also seeking the electrification of the Melton and Wyndham rail lines.

The council will launch a petition and request an urgent briefing from the state government.

Cr Raisc said they were seeking to ensure the government keeps its promises to the community.

“We are concerned that the scope of the airport rail project has been getting ever smaller,” she said.

“A state government press release … foreshadows a much reduced scope of works than what was first promised by premier and the minister for transport infrastructure when they stood in Sunshine in 2018 announcing the airport rail project.

“We are concerned significant improvement to both Sunshine and Albion stations will not be part of this project, and this $30 billion plan is about funneling people and businesses

between the CBD and the airport, which the premier promised he will not do.

“Instead of making Sunshine a destination, Sunshine is being made a turnstile and Albion is literally being overpassed.

“We are concerned that this project is about commuters, not communities.”

State Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said more information on key elements of the project will soon be shared publicly, with feedback to be sought as part of the next phase of engagement.

“Melbourne Airport Rail Link will play a critical role in Victoria’s plan to transform Sunshine into a transport super hub,” she said.

Call Sally on 0419 147 380 for a personal tour vmch.com.au 12491397-LB18-21

An $82.7 million Capital Works program, including… $43.6 million

$500,000

Sports facilities upgrades

Town centre upgrades

$7.3 million

$3.6 million

Playgrounds, parks and gardens

Bike and shared paths

$21 million

$430,000

Road and footpaths improvements

Sustainability projects

Council’s Annual Budget supports COVID-19 recovery Brimbank Council has adopted an Annual Budget 2021/2022, which supports COVID-19 recovery and invests $82.7 million in capital works, new facilities, roads and open spaces.

The Annual Budget was adopted at the 15 June Council Meeting, along with the supporting Financial Plan 2021-2031, the Revenue and Rating Plan 2021/22 to 2025/26 and Councillor Allowances.

The financially responsible budget focuses on strong capital works investment, protecting our environment and building healthy and resilient communities.

The capital works program includes the following projects and services to support our growing city:

• $43.6 million for sports facilities upgrades, including the new health and wellbeing hub in Keilor Downs, More Park sports facility upgrades, and Green Gully Reserve Oval redevelopment • $21 million for roads, footpaths, traffic management, drainage upgrades, and pedestrian links • $7.3 million for playgrounds, parks and gardens including upgrades to Keilor Park Recreation Reserve, Keilor Park; Cary Street, Sunshine North; and Leslie Street St Albans • $3.6 million for bike and shared paths to connect our city • $2.2 million for improvements to community facilities and early learning facilities

Kealba Landfill Help is available if you are in distress because of the underground fire at the Barro Group Kealba Landfill.

Support available The EPA is responsible for environmental public health in Victoria and the Kealba Landfill operates under an EPA licence.

The EPA website includes information about getting help if the landfill is impacting your health. Visit epa.vic.gov.au/kealba You can also contact the EPA 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842.

Community Forums Barro Group hold an online Community Forum every Wednesday at 8pm.

To join the meeting visit sunshinelandfill.com.au and follow the steps to take part.

If you feel unwell or distressed: Call NURSE ON CALL on 1300 60 60 24 .

Visit a doctor. Visit headtohealth.vic.gov.au You can also call Lifeline Telephone Crisis Support on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue Support Service

Council Community Connector Program is also available .

Council services update in line with further easing of restrictions in metro Melbourne:

Phone 9249 4494 MondayFriday between 9am-5pm.

Interpreters are available.

• Customer Service Centres in Sunshine and Keilor open Monday to Friday from 8.45am to 5pm. Our Sydenham Customer Service Centre remains closed.

• Libraries open with temporary changes to opening hours and capacity limits. For a full range of services and programs visit brimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au • Sunshine Leisure Centre gym, indoor leisure pool and spa reopened. The outdoor pool and outdoor training sessions remain open. Capacity limits apply. Please note the following areas and services remain closed: 25m indoor pool; steam room; crèche; group fitness classes; swimming lessons; café (drinks available).

Visit leisurecentres.brimbank.vic.gov.au for up-to-date information • St Albans Pop-up Gym reopened to members. All memberships will be reactivated allowing full access to the Pop-up Gym and Group fitness classes. Group Fitness classes will be capped at 10 people per group in line with current restrictions. Visit leisurecentres.brimbank. vic.gov.au for up-to-date information • The Keilor Basketball Netball Stadium is open to limited sporting group training only, with capacity restriction.

There will be no games, competitions, casual use, spectator crowds or crèche.

• iHarvest is closed until further notice.

For the latest information visit www.brimbank.vic.gov.au

For urgent after hours assistance please call the Coronavirus (COVID-19) hotline on 1800 675 398 and press 6. You will be connected to a trained Australian Red Cross Volunteer.

Support may include: Practical Help – Temporary food relief, culturally appropriate food options, essential items and access to face masks .

Emotional Support – Welfare checks, Centrelink assistance .

All information in this week’s edition of Brimbank Buzz was correct at the time of printing. For the latest information about the impacts of COVID-19 on Council’s services visit brimbank.vic.gov.au

Your Councillors

Cr Victoria Borg

Cr Sarah Branton

Cr Thuy Dang

• $1.2 million for street lighting upgrades • $2 million for widespread tree planting • $1.6 million towards 100% Carbon Neutral Renewable Electricity Supply The Budget includes a total rate increase of 1.5 per cent, in line with the State Government rate cap. Visit brimbank.vic.gov.au to view the Annual Budget online.

Your opinion counts

The Brimbank Community Connector Program can connect you with support if you are in need.

You can also contact Brimbank Council Customer Service on 9249 4000.

Council will also invest in several key sustainability initiatives across Brimbank including:

COVID-19 Update

on 1300 22 4636. Both services are open 24 hours.

Email brimbankcommunity connector@ brimbank. vic.gov.au. We will respond within one business day.

• $430,000 for sustainability projects

Share your ideas and feedback on issues and projects that matter to you. Learn more about projects that are open for comment including: • Public Art at HV McKay Memorial Gardens – What do you think about displaying public art at HV McKay Memorial Gardens, and what kind of art would you like to see at this historic park? Tell us what you think by attending an online consultation on Tuesday 22 June, 5.30pm-7.30pm, or take part in the survey • Fix the Calder – We’re calling for the Calder Freeway to be fixed between the Western Ring Road and Melton Highway. $100M is already confirmed. Sign the petition and share your story.

Visit yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au to share your thoughts on these initiatives and consultations.

Next Council meeting: Tuesday 20 July 2021 Brimbank Community and Civic Centre Level 1, Council Chamber, 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions and the public health directions in place, it is not known whether Brimbank City Council will need to close the Council Chamber to members of the public for the Council Meeting scheduled for 20 July 2021. A further update will be provided based on the restrictions required at that time. The Council Meeting will be live streamed via a link to be published on the Brimbank City Council website, closer to the date of the meeting.

Contact us brimbank.vic.gov.au

Visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/council to find your ward Councillors and their contact details.

Cr Sam David JP

Cr Maria Kerr

Cr Bruce Lancashire

Cr Trung Luu

Cr Jasmine Nguyen

Cr Jae Papalia

Deputy Mayor

Got symptoms, get tested Find out where to get tested coronavirus.vic.gov.au 2 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

9249 4000

Cr Ranka Rasic

Cr Virginia Tachos

Mayor

Runny nose

Shortness of breath

Loss of sense of smell

Fever

Chills or sweats

Sore throat

Cough

194 - 0521

Community Update

• $500,000 for town centre upgrades

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Brimbank crime rate falls

By Tara Murray Criminal offences dropped by more than five per cent in Brimbank in the year to March, according to new Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) data.

The data, which was released last week, shows there were 19,099 criminal offences recorded in Brimbank in the 12 months to March, down from 20,138 offences during the previous 12 months – a drop of 5.2 per cent.

However, criminal offences rose in St Albans and Deer Park.

There were 4365 criminal offences reported in St Albans, up from 3918 in the year prior, while 1826 offences were reported in Deer Park, up from 1696.

Thefts from a motor vehicle remains the most common offence in Brimbank, despite a drop in the number of cases from the previous 12 months.

According to CSA, there were 2114 thefts from a motor vehicle in Brimbank in the year to March, down from 2364 in the previous 12 months.

Other theft (1693 offences), breach of family

violence orders (1681), public health and safety offences (1674) and criminal damage (1131) rounded out the top five offences in Brimbank in the data period.

Family violence incidents rose by 1.2 per cent, with an additional 35 cases on the previous 12 months.

Across the state, the number of victims of crime experiencing family violence-related offending was the highest ever recorded, driven predominantly by increases in family violence common assault, CSA said.

CSA chief statistician Fiona Dowsley said

Lockdown adoptions continue The lockdown-related surge in pet adoptions is showing no signs of slowing down, according to RSPCA Victoria.

Carmen Main, customer care team leader at the RSPCA-run Epping Animal Welfare Facility, said the number of applications received by the RSPCA has been surprising.

“Since the start of the pandemic, we’ve received 54,000 online applications for pet adoption,” Ms Main said. “There’s a higher demand for dogs, and also cats.

“It’s been a really busy time for our adoption centres across our six sites [in Victoria].

“We’ve had a really steady flow of applications … [and] a really consistent level of interest.”

Ms Main said the organisation adheres to a “rigorous process” for adoptions.

“I think a lot of people working from home, their work-life balance was different, and the time people had to give to a pet was increased,” she said.

“We really are making sure people can look after a pet. We want to make sure that it’s a really good and strong match, forever.”

As for after lockdown, Ms Main said there are some key things pet owners need to do.

“Pet ownership is a commitment that can last for a long time,” she said.

“There’s the physical care for a pet, but also its emotional wellbeing.

“Establishing routines is key … that can set them up for success.“ Details: rspcavic.org Michaela Meade

Epping Animal Welfare Facility’s Penny Langmead, with Izzy. (Damjan Janevski) 240024_03

that family violence offences were on the rise as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Victoria has recorded the highest ever number of family incidents and family violence-related criminal offences during this period,” she said.

“The number of family violence-related victim reports has continued to increase, while other types of victim reports decreased over the past 12 months. This increase in family violence-related victimisation has been seen for the last three years, reflecting more than pandemic-related impacts.”

Rail link campaign gains momentum The Greater Sunshine Community Alliance is continuing its push for the state and federal governments to reassess their plans for the Melbourne Airport Rail Link.

The alliance recently held an online community meeting as part of its Save Albion station and Sunshine Super Hub campaign, as it sought greater community feedback on the plans.

The concept plans include a new bridge over the Maribyrnong River and elevated twin tracks between Sunshine and the Albion Junction.

The group has expressed its concerns about the proposed Albion flyover and wants to preserve the area’s history. It also wants Sunshine station to be developed into a regional super hub.

The online meeting was attended by more than 100 people, including several Brimbank councillors.

Mayor Ranka Rasic was among those to speak at the meeting.

The council last week launched its own campaign calling for more action.

The alliance has added an additional 13 motions to the 10 community motions the group had previously passed.

In the motions, the group reinforced its support of the project but raised concerns about the current plans.

The group is also encouraging local residents to sign an open letter, supporting the group’s stance and wants people to get in touch with local politicians and let them know the community’s point of view.

Details: http://ow.ly/6uIh50Fc6Kk Tara Murray

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3 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

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Road blitz nabs drivers Nearly 300 drivers came to the attention of police in Brimbank during Victoria Police’s Operation Regal between June 11-14. Police caught 142 drivers speeding, while 82 people were found to be disobeying signs or signals. Police detected 11 unregistered vehicles and five disqualified drivers, while 14 drivers were fined for mobile phone offences.

Six vehicles were impounded, while 16 drug and alcohol offences, seven seat belt offences, and three cyclist offences were also reported. Across the state, there were 4780 traffic offences and 431 criminal offences recorded during the operation.

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Green Gully under-12 soccer team. (Supplied)

A winning partnership Green Gully’s under-12 team is looking slick in brand new uniforms purchased thanks to the club’s sponsorship with Keilor Central Shopping Centre.

The new uniforms are part of a new partnership, which has also helped some of the club’s junior teams receive fee assistance.

The shopping centre’s marketing co-ordinator, Daniela Valencia, said it was only a matter of time before the two entered into a partnership.

“During these challenging times, we need a constant reminder of how resilient our

YOU’RE MORE SUITED THAN YOU MIGHT THINK NOW RECRUITING FOR OVER 3000 POLICE POLICE CAREERS 4 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

community can be,” she said. “Through our sponsorship we are able to contribute to the club in a number of positive ways.

“Keilor Central believes that by supporting other important social centres, we will ensure the area remains vibrant and connected.

“Green Gully Soccer Club is one of the most popular clubs in the region and Keilor Central is one of the most popular shopping destinations.

It was inevitable that these two teams would make a winning combination.”

Tara Murray

Five Brimbank teenagers have been charged following an investigation into an alleged assault in Kings Park on June 11. Police executed eight search warrants on Tuesday in Deer Park, Kings Park, Cairnlea, St Albans, Sunshine West and Point Cook. A 15-year-old Deer Park boy, a 15-year-old Kings Park boy, 15-year-old St Albans boy, a 16-year-old Cairnlea boy and a 16-year-old Kings Park boy were all charged with a number of offences including affray, robbery, violent disorder and recklessly causing serious injury.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Pumped to be back

By Tara Murray Owners and gym junkies alike were cheering last week as gyms and other indoor exercise facilities were given the green light to reopen their doors.

Owners and members had been left frustrated that gyms remained closed as other COVID-19 restrictions eased recently, but their wishes were answered on Wednesday, with the state government announcing gyms could reopen on Friday.

Igor Pocev runs three Lions Den Boxing gyms across Brimbank.

He said he was relieved they could get back into the gym.

“We’ve been going through so much,” he said.

“We were trying to keep the members happy and surviving. We have three gyms, three locations and three rents.

“This [lockdown] was worse than the other ones, as we couldn’t ask for some support. This time we didn’t know what was happening.”

Mr Pocev said while there were still restrictions on how many people could be in a gym at a time, they would do whatever it takes to ensure none of their members were missing out.

“We’ve done it before and we’ll do it again.”

Theresa Stefanovski was emotional following news that her gym, Csfitness247 in Caroline Springs, could reopen.

The gym opened in October 2019 but has spent much of the time closed due to lockdowns.

“It has really wrecked me mentally,” she said. “[But] I’m lucky, I know a cupcake place that opened up less than a year ago and has had to shut down.”

Ms Stefanovski said the lockdown and lack of access to gyms had taken a mental toll on

Igor Pocev owns three gyms in Brimbank. (Damjan Janevski) 241131_01

people.

EFM’s Jarrod Borg said that gyms opening was a light at the end of the tunnel.

“It’s good to have a bit of clarity and it’s good to know they have a plan,” he said.

“The whole uncertainty was the hardest

thing. It was a challenge for a lot of people missing part of their daily routine.

“I see our space as a place to work on both your physical and mental health.”

Mr Borg said that during lockdowns, his turnover dropped by about 40 per cent.

NEWS

Sport returns, but no crowds While sport was back in metropolitan Melbourne spectators were left on the sidelines for at least another week.

The state government announced that sport could resume at the weekend, but spectators were limited to one parent per child.

Clubs could open canteens to players and volunteers only, meaning a financial hit.

Many clubs and players took to social media frustrated by the rulings. Many grounds don’t have fences, making it difficult to monitor the number of spectators.

Keilor Park president Shannon Rogers said he didn’t see how it would be possible for club to enforce the no spectator rule.

“People will look to walk their dogs and have a look or go for a walk,” he said.

“People are down there all the time.”

Rogers said the only way to ensure that fans were kept out was to have fences installed around grounds.

Essendon District Football League chief executive Ian Kyte, on the league’s podcast, said the best way that supporters could support their club was by staying at home.

He said metropolitan leagues were one week behind their regional counterparts, who were allowed up to 1000 people at games at the weekend.

Kyte said they were hopeful of being able to have that number this weekend.

Tara Murray

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5 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

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Justice program funding dries up

By Tara Murray A youth community law program (YCLP) faces an uncertain future, with no funding allocated for the program beyond June.

Sunshine-based Youth Junction runs an innovative pre-sentence program which operates out of the Visy Cares Hub in Sunshine and Youth Central in Broadmeadows.

The primary purpose of the program is to prevent further offending by young adults in the criminal justice system.

Youth Junction chief executive Jo Malcolm-Black said they had confirmed last week that there was no money allocated in the

‘‘

work with young people to make significant changes - Jo Malcolm-Black

’’

state budget to continue the program.

“Unfortunately without confirmed funding the program will need to be put on hold while alternative funding streams are sought.”

Ms Malcolm-Black was hopeful that alternative funding would be able to be found so that the program could continue on after June. The program has been running for 10 years.

“This program is one of the original early intervention programs,” she said. “It is intended to turn around the outcomes normally experienced by young people who have been in contact with youth justice, and over the life of the program we have seen that, where 74 per cent of young people in YCLP successfully complete the program.

“Long-term, it has been positive as well. For young people in YCLP, only six per cent of the participants were likely to go on to a custodial sentence.

“A program like this enables the community to work with young people to make significant changes.

“We should never underestimate how valuable it is to have the support of those around you while you create the life you want.”

With the future of the program uncertain, Ms Malcolm-Black acknowledged the support of the many community stakeholders who have worked with and contributed to the success of the program.

She said they had supported more than 1100 young people in the community whom might otherwise have faced only custodial options.

“The courts, law practices, Victoria Police and other community organisations have helped quickly identify those young people who needed and benefited from this support.”

School holiday fun A Brimbank council school holiday program is going green this July.

Going Green 2021, will be held in the second week of the school holidays for school-age children, and gives young minds the chance to be part of an arts festival.

The council confirmed the program would still go ahead despite COVID-19 restrictions.

The program is being run in partnership with Environmental Film Festival Australia (EFFA) and Snuff Puppets.

It’s dedicated to celebrate nature, creatively educate children about conservation and preserve the environment through art.

The activities include toddler Tuesday, during which some of the youngest participants will have a chance to hand decorate plant pots; a song writing workshop; an earring-making workshop; live music performances; movies; a

learn to art workshop; talks and a visit by the Snuff Puppets.

The festival, which is free, runs between July 6 and 10 at the St Albans Community Centre and Bowery Theatre.

Details: https://creativebrimbank.com.au/ bowery/goinggreen2021.

Tara Murray

Kate Robinson is doing jewellery making classes for a Brimbank council school holiday program.

(Damjan Janevski) 241135_01

Traffic changes Sunshine Road, West Footscray We’re upgrading the electrical substation at Tottenham Station as part of the Sunbury Line Upgrade.

The eastbound slow lane on Sunshine Road will be closed between Olympia and McArthur streets on weekdays from 9am to 3.30pm Monday 14 June to Monday 2 August.

One eastbound lane will remain open on Sunshine Road at all times.

Thanks for your patience as we upgrade the Sunbury Line.

Sunshin e Road

McArthu r Street

Gwelo S treet

Cala Str eet

Bizana Street

Aliwal S treet

Works area Lane closure

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Legend

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Tottenham Station Sredna Street

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Sunbury Line Upgrade works are progressing safely under the current coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions in Victoria. The health and safety of our workforce and community is our top priority. COVIDSafe Plans are in place on all our project sites.

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Find out if you’re affected at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

6 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

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Youth, mental health funded

By Tara Murray Youth support and a review of mental health services have been included in Brimbank council’s annual budget for 2021-22.

The council adopted its final budget last week, with rates to rise by an average of 1.5 per cent next financial year.

The council is proposing to continue its hardship policy and to fund additional pensioner rebates of $25.

The budget also included a capital works budget of $82.67 million.

Following community submissions, the council made six changes to the draft budget proposed in April.

They include $200,000 for the 2021-2022 COVID-19 recovery community grants program to include a youth support category which would allow community groups and organisations to support young people in Brimbank throughout the pandemic.

A additional $25,000 was allocated for the council to prepare a report providing analysis of mental health service provisions.

There will also be no increase for seniors fees

across all community facilities.

Deputy mayor Jasmine Nguyen said the most recent lockdown has shown that the COVID-19 pandemic isn’t over and the community still needs council’s support.

“I welcome the foresight to include measures to continue to support our community through the … COVID-19 response and recovery strategy,” she said.

“Our community has done it tough.

“No one can deny that our young people are among our most vulnerable, we have an opportunity here to make a positive impact.”

Cr Nguyen said the timing was perfect to look at the mental health services in the municipality. The report will be presented to council before February next year.

“The pandemic negative impact on mental health of our community, stress, anxiety, as well as social isolation and loneliness are prevalent,” Cr Nguyen said.

“The council currently provides mental health programs and the question here is what more can be done?

“It will allow us to understand our needs and be proactive step to building our community.”

Feel your way Rhys Cousins’ exhibition Essence the Suburban Street isn’t just about what you see in front of you.

The exhibition, which includes installations and projection, focuses on the experience of the suburban street through two distinct senses – touch and sight.

Cousins said he wanted to reimagine how people see their local street.

“I want people to connect with Brimbank locally, especially through the connections that were formed during COVID-19.

“The project encourages a connection to locality through an installation intended to ‘ground’ the participant, where, exposed by the removal of obstruction (shoes and socks), we feel our way over the texture of urban surfaces (concrete, asphalt, timber, etc) and re-connect physically to the place of Brimbank.”

The visual projection reimagines local advertising as poetic and representational of

the people behind the store facade.

Cousins said he was in part inspired to create the project after talking with his mum and her talking about her childhood.

“My mum grew up in New Zealand in a small town and she used to walk around the town with no shoes on.

“It changes how you feel about a city or street.”

The exhibition will run from June 30 through to August at the Sunshine Art Spaces Gallery.

Tara Murray

Rhys Cousins with his work. (Joe Mastroianni) 240617_03

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7 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

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Grants tackle community safety

By Tara Murray Community projects to improve safety in Brimbank will be funded as part of the state government’s building safer communities program.

Brimbank council was recently announced as the first local government crime prevention partner of the safer communities program.

The partnership will result in $700,000 in ‘empowering communities’ grants for crime prevention programs determined by the community and aimed at improving safety and addressing crime in the area.

The grants aim to build community capacity to understand crime-related issues, strengthen

‘‘

a safer, more inclusive and more liveable Brimbank - Ranka Rasic

’’

community relationships to deliver crime prevention initiatives, build the evidence base for successful community development initiatives, and engage and mobilise the community to address issues of concern.

The grant follows the government’s first Building Safer Communities forum which was held in Brimbank last November.

During the forum young people spoke about the challenges and personal safety issues they

face.

The Brimbank empowering communities action group has already been formed to support the allocation of funding. The action group will establish goals and initial activities

by July this year, with specific projects expected to receive funding from September.

Mayor Ranka Rasic said the council alone cannot build safe and inclusive communities and required a collaborative approach.

“The ‘empowering communities’ approach brings together the key players at the local level to understand the issues and encourage innovative and evidence-based responses.

“Council is looking forward to being part of the Brimbank empowering communities action

Many homeowners are struggling to pay their mortgage. (iStock)

OVER 5 MILLION AUSTRALIANS HAVE NOW TAKEN THE NEXT STEP

Homeowners in mortgage stress

We’re not safe until we’re all safe.

Find out when it’s your turn and where you can be vaccinated at australia.gov.au

12499608-DL26-21

Book here

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra.

8 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

group, and to supporting the work of building safer and more inclusive communities.

“We welcome the provision of funding for evidence-based crime prevention initiatives in Brimbank. This funding is an overwhelmingly positive step toward a safer, more inclusive and more liveable Brimbank.”

Crime Prevention Minister and Sydenham MP Natalie Hutchins said the funding will help address the root problems of crime in the area.

“This will give Brimbank the resources to tackle important community safety issues identified at the … forum, and to support the community to develop local crime prevention ideas that work.”

Many homeowners in Delahey, Hillside and Sydenham are struggling to pay their mortgage each month, according to new data.

Recently released data by Digital Finance Analytics revealed a number of homeowners nationally are struggling to pay their mortgage, with changes to lending laws expected to increase the number of people in mortgage stress.

As of April 2021, the 3037 postcode which takes in Delahey, Hillside and Sydenham, had the ninth highest number of people in mortgage stress in the country (7229).

The postcode was one of five Victorian postcodes in the top 10.

CHOICE chief executive Alan Kirkland said people were having to make a choice of how they spend their money each week.

“These are households where from fortnight to fortnight, people are spending more than they are earning,” he said.

“That means that they have to make difficult choices, like whether to put food on the table or keep up with repayments. If they can’t maintain the juggling act, they risk losing their homes.”

Mr Kirkland said safe lending laws changes could see even more people struggling to pay their mortgage each month. Safe lending laws were introduced in 2009 requiring banks to ensure a loan is able to be repaid “without substantial hardship”, and meets the customer’s “requirements and objectives”.

Mr Kirkland said the laws were put in place to make banks take care to avoid giving people loans they won’t be able to afford to repay.

“If the government gets away with its plan to axe safe lending laws, people who are desperate to get into a rising housing market will be at risk of overexposure and people who need to refinance won’t be adequately protected.

“We call upon the government to ditch its irresponsible plan. Now is not the time to give more power to the banks.“ CHOICE has set up an open letter calling for the safe lending laws to be saved. The letter states that if these laws are introduced there will be a debt disaster.

So far more than 39,000 Australians and 125 organisations have signed an open letter.

Tara Murray

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Volunteer check-ins help support families A program which pairs volunteers with local families for weekly visits is launching in Melbourne’s north-west.

Baptcare’s Home-Start has been running in Australia since 1989 and started in Victoria 12 years ago in Bendigo.

It’s now expanding to Brimbank, Wyndham, Melton, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong and Moonee Valley.

Home-Start co-ordinator Danielle Lucas said the program aimed to provide support to families in a way that they may not otherwise

get.

“It’s about someone coming and having a coffee and a catch-up each week,” she said. “It might be going to a playgroup with them or going for a walk.

“Having the volunteer come fills a gap for a lot of people. It’s like having a mother, sister, friend or aunt come along to chat and provide mentoring.”

Ms Lucas said the organisation matches volunteers with families who are already part of their other programs.

She said many of these families may not have English as a first language, which can affect their confidence.

All families involved must have at least one child under the age of five.

Ms Lucas said they were starting to get the word out about the program, including at maternal health facilities, libraries and kinders.

She said they were looking for volunteers to become part of the program, which consists of visits once a week for one to two hours.

“We’re looking for volunteers who have some

Food for thought

Tara Murray

Community grants now open

By Tara Murray For four-year-old Owen Maher and his family, dealing with his allergies is a full-time job.

It started when they discovered as a three-month-old that he was allergic to milk and dairy. When he started on solids, the allergy list grew to include eggs and peanuts.

“It is pretty encompassing and it has been there since three months of age,” Owen’s mother Phoebe Lynch said.

“I had to cut out dairy when I was breastfeeding and it becomes an element of your day. So many social things revolve around food.

“Once we found out he had anaphylaxis, we got fact sheets and sent it to all our friends and family. We are hyper vigilant and always looking at food.”

Phoebe said the family hardly went out to restaurants and when they did, they called ahead to make sure that Owen can eat there.

“A lot of people don’t know what anaphylaxis is, let alone how to provide safe food. We go to McDonalds a lot,” she said. “He will eat chips and that is pretty much the only safe food he can eat, but we still have to be careful.”

Owen has had one anaphylaxis reaction after a food product wasn’t labelled properly. Overall, an ambulance has been called for him four times and he’s ended up at the Royal Children’s Hospital 10 times due to his allergies.

Phoebe said the scary thing was that on three or four of those occasions, they didn’t know what had caused the reaction. The family carries an EpiPen and are part of the EpiPen Australia group, which provides them with information.

She said tests had shown Owen would likely have the allergy at least through his teenage years and to adulthood.

Phoebe said she wanted other people to be mindful of their behaviour and the impact it can have on people with allergies.

“If you go to play centres, eat at the table and go and wash hands with soap and wipe down the table so there are no traces,” she said.

“Or if you have kids, kids with allergies still

type of caregiving experience from a wide range of backgrounds and ages.

“They could be mothers or sisters, or people who have retired and want to be involved in the community.”

All volunteers participate in an eight-week training program, with ongoing training provided.

To register your interest to volunteer, visit: homestartprogram@batpcare.org.au.

Local community groups are being encouraged to apply for the Lions Club of Taylors Lakes’ community grants program.

The annual grants are provided to community groups to help them complete minor works, repairs or improvements to their buildings or equipment.

There is a total pool of $2000 allocated to the program this year, with the option to either fund just one application or share it between multiple groups.

The funding is the result of local fundraising by the Lions Club throughout the year.

Eligible groups include kindergartens, childcare, schools, Scouts and Guides, sporting clubs, voluntary organisations and support groups, and other non-profit community groups.

Applicants must be in either Taylors Lakes, Sydenham, Kealba, Keilor Downs, Hillside, Taylors Hill, Delahey or Keilor.

The application form for the grants states that the Lions Club recognises many repairs, maintenance and improvement tasks are often out of the reach of community groups due to financial constraints.

“As such, we have identified minor works and improvements as the priority for the round of grants in 2021.”

Details: https://www.facebook. com/LionsTaylorsLakes Owen and, inset, with mum Phoebe Lynch and Rory, 3. (Pictures: Joe Mastroianni) 240623

Tara Murray want to be involved in events. I say what Owen’s allergies are and provide food alternatives and make cupcakes so he can still be part of it.”

Phoebe is sharing Owen’s story as part of World Allergy Week, which ran from June 13-19.

“ I NEVER THOUGHT I’D BE HOMELESS.” More people are now facing homelessness than ever before.

Visit salvationarmy.org.au or scan the QR code

9 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

22 June 2021

Mayor’s message

STAY INFORMED

Cr Kathy Majdlik

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

I’m sure the easing of the State Government’s Melbourne lockdown restrictions on Friday was a welcome change for you all, giving you more opportunity to catch up with family and friends in public, travel further, and participate in sport and leisure activities.

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

More Council services resume With the Victorian Government’s Melbourne restrictions easing, more Council services have resumed or increased. Many online programs and services also continue, as well as all essential services. Patronage limits, mask requirements for those aged 12 years and over, and QR scanning are in place.

For updates and more details on Council services and programs, and for help connecting to support services, visit melton.vic.gov.au/covid19

Grants to boost your community work

Resumed services and reopened facilities: (All with density limits and venue and group caps) • Many children’s programs • School holiday activities • Libraries • CS Gallery • Indoor Sport Stadiums (limited to participants and facilitators) • Melton Waves Leisure Centre (limited services) • Youth centres • Melton Recycling Facility

Our community grants are designed to support activities that increase community participation, promote and develop local pride, provide services and facilities that strengthen local health and wellbeing, and promote community leadership.

We currently have grants open to support community projects that respond to urgent community needs; and to establish community clubs and groups. There are also grants to help individuals participate in sporting, cultural or arts events; and grants for groups providing emergency relief to those impacted by the pandemic.

July holiday fun!

There’s plenty of things to do in the City of Melton these school holidays. Bookings are now open so get in quickly before they fill up! At our libraries, you can join illustrator and author Adam Wallace for cartooning, learn about science as you make slime, or train to become a superhero. Our teenage holiday program is also back with a range of activities including dancing, cooking, and art. Discover these and more school holiday activities at melton.vic.gov.au/schoolholidays

Find out more and apply at melton.vic.gov.au/grants

Coburn Ward with Bob Turner

In times like this, it’s easy to overlook some of the things we can do to take care of ourselves and our environment.

green bins. They always go in your red bin. For more information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/waste

Again, we’ve faced troubling times in recent weeks, as Melbourne battled through strict COVID lockdown restrictions. As tough as it is, we are all in this together, and it is together that we’ll make a difference and win the fight against this terrible virus.

A recent waste audit by Visy shows that the City of Melton has one of the highest recycling contamination rates in the state, coming in at 33 per cent.

Lastly, works on Eynesbury Recreation Reserve, including the pavilion, hard courts, adventure play space, car parking, lighting and cricket nets, are almost complete. This outstanding community space should be completed in July. You can visit melton.vic.gov.au for more details.

Remember, getting vaccinated is one of the best things we can do to help protect ourselves, and our loved ones, against coronavirus. Visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au to check your eligibility, find a vaccination centre or book an appointment.

That’s why it’s important that everyone ensures they’re putting items in the correct bins: yellow for recycling (cardboard, glass jars, aluminium cans and hard plastics); green for food and garden waste; and red for general waste (including nappies and coffee cups).

Remember to never put plastic bags or other soft plastics in your yellow or

I am available to meet with residents most Saturday mornings from 9am, by appointment. Please contact Barb McKenzie on 9747 7200 to book a time, or contact me on 0412 584 224 or bob.turner@melton.vic.gov.au

It also means more Council services are available including some children’s activities and school holiday programs. You can also visit our libraries, Melton Waves Leisure Centre, youth centres, and the Melton Recycling Facility.

Please be mindful that there are still density limits, mask requirements, and QR scanning in place.

I’d like to again thank those of you who are helping to keep us all safe by adhering to the advice from health authorities. Your efforts are making a difference and helping keep everyone safe and connected.

After the challenges local businesses have faced over the past year, celebrating local businesses and the service they provide is more important than ever before.

We’re calling for outstanding businesses that deliver high quality services or products, go above and beyond for customers and clients, or show great innovation to apply for our upcoming 2021 City of Melton Business Excellence Awards.

If that sounds like your business, then please apply by Wednesday 30 June at melton.vic.gov.au/ businessawards For those of you considering your future career, I invite you to visit our Virtual Careers Expo to plan your pathway using information on tertiary education, employment, apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities at virtualcareerexpo.melton.vic. gov.au 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 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 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

BEHIND THE NEWS

Nature’s classroom The Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation is on a growth spurt with no end in sight. Established in 2004 to educate and engage children in healthy eating habits by one of Australia’s best known cooks and food writer Stephanie Alexander, the foundation now supports just under 1700 gardens and there are no signs of slowing down writes Jan Fisher.

P

oint Cook P-9 College got in on the action early on. Plans for a kitchen garden were included in the original design when the school opened in 2010. From a greenfield site 11 years ago it now has 13 garden beds, an orchard, a chicken run, greenhouse, aquaponics, olive trees throughout the campus and there are plans to build an indigenous food garden.

Like all the foundation gardens, it’s not just about growing plants. At Point Cook, students in the year 3-4 cohort have a weekly garden class but the garden also supports learning across the school.

‘‘

a place to be fully emerged in nature

’’

- Robyn Cairns “The garden provides opportunities for hands-on learning that no other place in the school does,” says the school’s Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation (SAKGF) co-ordinator and environmental science teacher Robyn Cairns.

“The garden is accessed by classroom teachers and specialist teachers for linked learning experiences and is an integral part of our schools new Hands on Learning program.

“Sarah Moore, our garden specialist teacher, educates students on garden skills and sustainable gardening in both the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program, the Hands On learning program and runs a weekly garden club.

“The children enjoy the SAKG garden for it is a place of sensory exploration, a quiet refuge for many and a place to be fully emerged in nature.”

The school uses the garden to link to literacy and numeracy planning in inquiry units, photography and science and the school is redesigning the singage to include not only the plants’ common names but also their Latin and

School gardens like the one above are providing students with a space for hands-on learning.

(Pictures: iStock and supplied)

Indonesian names as part of their language studies. Ms Moore said it’s also been a haven for students in these confusing pandemic times.

“It’s a place to calm down, have a break, or a reward for completing their work,” she said.

SAKGF support and delivery manager Josie Charles said while the model has been tweaked over the years, enthusiasm for the school gardens has never wavered.

Originally a funded program where schools had to raise a considerable amount of money to install a garden and kitchen, it now runs along a more affordable membership model.

“It’s evolved to growing your program over time and achieving what you want to achieve in your school and we provide the resources,” Ms Charles said.

Schools can start off slow with as little as a few garden beds or take on the whole shebang with a full garden and kitchen.

“Each school is very different and what they want to achieve can vary from a whole school or just a few year levels running with the program, or starting with a garden and progress to kitchen,” Ms Charles said.

“Some schools use it as a connection into the broader community, volunteers come in and help with the program and can provide some amazing experiences.”

Point Cook College is no exception and it plans to restart its community garden club once COVID-19 restrictions ease.

“There is often a lot of interaction with local business and often very passionate program

members and at some schools local hospitality groups are involved with the program as well,” Ms Charles said.

“We encourage schools to start small and grow their garden. A garden is ultimately never finished.

“The outdoor learning space really allows for another string to the bow and is particularly hands-on.

“It’s about pleasure and engaging the senses with hands-on education. While they are doing that they are also learning about science and maths and the full range of education can be linked back to the garden.

“It can also be a powerful space for kids not engaged in the classroom, it gives them a chance to shine.”

11 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Call to join the celebration

By Tara Murray Deer Park West Primary School is celebrating a major milestone and is hoping the former school community can get involved.

The school will celebrate its 50th birthday and is hoping to have a picnic on September 14, subject to COVID-19 restrictions, to celebrate.

Current grade five teacher Justin Camilleri said they were starting to put out feelers to former pupils and teachers.

‘‘

We are encouraging past students and teachers to … be part of the day

’’

- Justin Camilleri “We are hoping to have a picnic sort of thing,” he said. “We normally have a picnic each year, but we’re hoping this year will be even bigger to celebrate.

“We are encouraging past students and teachers to come and be part of the day. There’s still teachers at the school that have been there a long time that people will recognise.”

Mr Camilleri said they were also hoping to set up some interviews between current pupils and those who were there before them so pupils can learn about the history of the school.

Much has changed since the school was built and opened on September 29, 1971, he said. The school was renovated in 2000.

In 1971, there were 11 teaching staff, now there are 50 staff and 481 pupils from 24 different countries.

Former pupils and teachers can contact the school for more details.

Deer Park West Primary School is celebrating its 50th birthday. (Pictures: Supplied)

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

June 17, 1981

June 19, 1991

June 19, 2001

June 21, 2011

The future of the Footscray-Sunshine Early Childhood Development program swings precariously in the balance following the razor gang cuts and locals fear the service could close down altogether.

A licensed social club to serve all sporting organisations in Sunshine … a branch of the State Theatre … a multicultural centre … an indoor netball stadium. These are the latest uses suggested for the imposing former railway transformer in Talmage St, Albion.

Brimbank sports legends have to be dead and buried before the council can name an oval in their honour, if it remains true to its existing policy.

Brimbank residents who have won a long battle to stop a proposed landfill at the former Sunshine-Kealba quarry will now push for the site to be rehabilitated.

12 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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13 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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.

Love Our Street 3029 Come join the volunteer community litter clean-up crew in Hoppers Crossing, which meets on the third Sunday of the month, 10.30am-noon.

■ Karen, 3029@loveourstreet.com.au

My Social Club An 18+ not-for-profit disability recreation, sports and social sub-branch of ‘Rainbow Club Point Cook Inc’. Meets every third Friday at local venues for meals and social interaction. Members plan their own adventures. Membership fee is NDIS funded.

■ www.mysocialclub.org.au, email: social@ rainbowclub.org.au or call 0414 384 557 during business hours

Art creation Craigieburn Art Group runs a creative art club every Monday night at the community rooms, Craigieburn Sports Stadium from 3-5.30pm and 7-9.30pm, except public holidays, COVID restrictions permitting. Most members use oils, watercolour, acrylic, pastel or pencil, and have constructive chats at the end of each night. Bring your supplies and get creative.

■ www.craigieburnartgourp.org

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/

School holiday program

(Pictures: iStock)

Museum UNDONE

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

Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton.

■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

Book sale

Garden club

Friends of Altona Library monthly book sale is on Friday, July 2, Saturday, July 3 and Tuesday, July 6. Rear of Altona library, 123 Queens Street, Altona, access via Coles carpark.

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

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

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 three.

■ www.vsl.vic.edu.au

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

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

Zonta club meets The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first 14 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

AL-ANON meets

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

Diabetes support

Melton South Knit & Natter

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

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

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

Free computer workshops Deer Park probus

Join the Friends of Cobbledicks Ford for conservation work in the reserve on the second Friday of the month, 10am-noon, until October. Registrations open 9.30am in the carpark. BYO water bottle and gloves. Tools provided.

■ John, 0407 546 235, cobbledicksford@gmail.com 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

Women’s choir

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.

Conservation volunteers

Williamstown Community and Education Centre is running free computer workshops on internet safety (July 14), using email (August 4), how to use Zoom (September 7), internet banking (October 6) and setting up a MyGov account (November 7).

Workshops are at Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown.

■ Renee, 9397 6168

Conversation class Is English your second language and wishing to improve your conversation skills?

The Altona Conservation Class can help.

The group meets Mondays during the school term, 1-3pm. Sessions are free.

■ Joe, 0431 915 970, or Jill, 0439 994 705

Senior citizens club Senior citizens are welcome to visit the Sunbury Senior Citizens Club on Mondays, from noon-3pm at 8 O’Shannassy Street. A variety of activities offered – carpet bowls, cards, snooker, darts, board games or just a cup of coffee and a chat. Lunch subsidised If you’re over 55 years of age and would like to meet new people, come along.

■ Frank, 0423 392 884

Rotary club Join the Point Gellibrand Rotary Club every second Tuesday of each month at the Royal Victorian Motor Yacht Club, Nelson Place, from 6.30pm for a 7pm start.

■ Pam, rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com or 0418 347 691

Singing group Join the Melton South Community Singers at the Melton South Community Centre on

the first and third Tuesday of each month.

0400 082 413

■ Sue,

Get money smart Learn how to manage your money and stay out of debt. Hobsons Bay residents aged between 16 and 25 years are being invited to complete a Get Money Smart workshop.

All participants will receive a Bendigo Bank savings account with a $100 balance. The free program is delivered by WynBay LLEN, Laverton Community Integrated Services and partially sponsored by Bendigo Bank.

At Laverton Community Hub from July 14-August 11 on Wednesdays from 4-6pm.

Register: ■ www.wynbayllen.org.au/getmoney-smartlaverton-1

Patchwork 25th anniversary Wyndham Patchworkers is celebrating their 25th Anniversary Quilt on Saturday, September 11, 10am-3.30pm, St James the Apostle Catholic Church hall, 336 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing.Entry $15. BYO lunch. The day will include a raffle, door prizes, show and tell, and local traders. Pre booking is mandatory. No door sales.

■ www.trybooking.com/BRGRN, Donna, 0417 268887,

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY

Out and about With COVID-19 restrictions eased, coffee catch-ups and playdates were back in full swing. Star Weekly photographer Joe Mastroianni caught up with some people making the most of their weekend.

2 3

1

5

6

4

8

9

7

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1/ One-year-old Neeom Prajapati enjoys playing indoors. (Supplied) 2/ Finn gets into the swing of things at Brimbank Park. 3/ Lachlan and Richard at Brimbank Park. 4/ Grandad Steve, Maddix, grandma Maryanne and Murphie at Centreway Keilor East. 5/ John, Robert, Graham and John at Keilor East. 6/ Danielle, Joe, Molly and Joel enjoy some family time at Brimbank Park. 7/ Elise and Liana at Keilor East. 8/ James and Charlotte at Brimbank Park. 9/ Debbie and Archie at Brimbank Park. 10/ Ann, Lucy, Sarah and Rachel at Centreway, Keilor East. 11/ Arhan Prajapati, 5, dresses up as a superhero. (Supplied) 12/ Erin and Patrick, Renee and Olyssa, Nadia and Oscar at Brimbank Park. (Joe Mastroianni) 240605; 240606 15 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

FEATURING ... TAX TIME

Advertising feature

Work-related expenses on the radar The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) expects work-related expenses will reflect the change in many people’s work situations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our data analytics will be on the lookout for unusually high claims this tax time,” ATO’s assistant commissioner Tim Loh has said. “We will look closely at anyone with significant working from home expenses, that maintains or increases their claims for things like car, travel or clothing expenses.

“You can’t simply copy and paste previous years’ claims without evidence.”

The ATO advises that some unusual claims may be legitimate, and people with evidence to explain the claims have nothing to fear. It acknowledges that tax rules can be confusing and mistakes can be made.

To claim any work-related expense, you must have spent the money yourself and not been reimbursed by your employer. The expense needs to be directly related to earning your income (not a private expense), and you need to keep relevant records, such as receipts.

‘‘

Our data analytics will be on the lookout for unusually high claims this tax time

’’

- Tim Loh

Working from home The temporary shortcut method for working from home expenses is available for the full 2020–2021 financial year.

This allows an all-inclusive rate of 80 cents per hour for every hour people work from home between 1 July 2020 and 31 June 2021, rather than needing to separately calculate costs for specific expenses.

Multiply the number of hours you worked at home by 80 cents, and keep a record such as a timesheet, roster or diary entry.

The shortcut is all-inclusive. You can’t claim the shortcut and then claim for individual expenses such as telephone, internet costs and depreciation of equipment.

If you’re working from home due to COVID-19 but need to travel to your regular office sometimes, you can’t claim the cost of travel from home to work.

COVID-19 and working from home will have an effect on tax lodgements. (iStock)

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(iStock)

Advertising feature

ATO issues myGov scam warning The Australian Tax Office and Services Australia have issued a warning about a new email phishing scam doing the rounds. The emails claim to be from “myGov” and include screenshots of the myGovID app.

The myGovID can be used to prove who you are when accessing Australian government

online services.

The scam emails ask people to click a link to fill in a “secure form” on a fake myGov page.

The form requests personal identifying information and banking details.

This scam is all about collecting personal information rather than gaining access to live

information via myGov or myGovID. The ATO and myGov do send emails and SMS messages but will never include clickable hyperlinks directing you to a login page for online services.

If you’ve opened an email that looks suspicious, don’t click any links, open any

attachments or reply to it.

If you’ve received a suspicious email and mistakenly clicked a link, replied and/or provided your myGov login details or other information, change your myGov password and, if you’ve provided your banking details, contact your bank.

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17 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

12500881-NG26-21

18 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

PUZZLES No. 034

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

4 7

1 2 5

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

7 3 2 4 8 7 8 2 9

5 9 3

Australian currency units (7) Evidence of being elsewhere (5) Rubbish (7) Inferior (6) Traditional (9) US Founding Father, Benjamin — (8) Terminate (7) Elevating (7) Add sugar (7) Explanatory drawing (7) Sickness (6) Possessor (5)

5 6

ACROSS Crumbled (9) Celestial being (5) Tall structure (5) Cue and ball game (9) Maltreatment (5) Lifeless (9) Utmost (7) Football (6) Conquer (6) Defamation (7) Express regret (9) Beget (5) Lab worker (9) Christmas song (5) Hate (5) Nice guy (9)

1 6 9 10 11 12 13 14 17 20 23 25 26 27 28 29

No. 034

7 8 15 16 18 19 20 21 22 24

DOWN Quaint houses (8) Case (7) Harmony (9) Lofty (7)

1 2 3 4

DECODER

No. 034

1 3

7 8 5 9 3 6 6 2 9

4 3

QUICK CROSSWORD

5 4 6

hard

3 5 6

2

1

7

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

21

22

23

24

25

26

5 LETTERS ADAPT ADEPT ADORE AGREE ALGAE ALPHA AMASS ANTIC AORTA AROSE ARRAY AWARE CHANT CLOCK COPES EDGES EERIE EJECT ENDOW EVENT

3

2

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

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”.

K

Today’s Aim: 15 words: Good 23 words: Very good

E

B

R

9 5 4 7 2 3 1 8 6

7 6 3 8 9 1 2 5 4

3 2 8 9 1 6 7 4 5

9 1 4 3 6 5 7 8 2

A

6 LETTERS CHASES CHASMS FEELER SKEWER

7 LETTERS ARSENIC CERAMIC HURTING POLLUTE PORTICO PROTEIN 8 LETTERS ENTRANTS ESSENCES SCRAPPED SUPPLANT

Who is the presumed author of the Iliad and the Odyssey?

7

And how many were called Catherine?

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

2

The Indian Pacific train journey goes through which three Australian cities?

8

In what year was The Sims 4 released?

9

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

3

True or false: all worker bees are male?

Which university did Victorian premier Daniel Andrews (pictured) attend?

4

Who released the album Batflowers last year?

5

Rafael, Xiomara and Petra are characters on which US drama/comedy?

6

How many wives did Henry VIII have?

E A R S S

A P E D N A N E I S T A

T E R

S

SPITE STALL STARS STEAK TEEMS TENET UNDER WASTE WIRED

1

No. 034

E

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

E

GENRE GORGE HARSH HERON IMPLY LACES LUNCH MAMAS MAUVE MEDIA PRESS PROBE SAGAS SCARF SCENE SHADE SHARE SHEER SHRED SMEAR SNEER

25-06-21

G I V

1 9 7 5 4 8 3 6 2

5 7 2 4 8 9 6 1 3

4 1 9 3 6 2 5 7 8

2 5 6 9 7 8 3 1 4

7 6 1 5 8 9 4 2 3

4 2 3 7 1 6 8 9 5

S

No. 034

back, backer, bake, baker, bank, banker, bark, beak, beaker, beck, bracken, brake, break, BREAKNECK, cake, canker, crake, crank, creak, creek, keen, kerb, knack, knacker, knee, neck, rack, rake, rank, reck, reek

6 4 5 2 3 7 8 9 1

N

A

N

4 LETTERS AWAY AWED AWES BETS CHAP GAME GNUS GORY JUNE LEAN PECK PLUS SENT UPON

QUICK QUIZ

N

7 4 8 9 6 1 5 2 3

2 8 1 6 5 4 9 3 7

D

P

C

K E

5 1 6 3 8 2 7 9 4

9 2 3 4 7 5 6 8 1

8 5 4 1 9 6 3 7 2

6 9 2 7 3 8 1 4 5

1 3 7 5 2 4 8 6 9

2 8 1 6 4 3 9 5 7

4 7 5 8 1 9 2 3 6

3 6 9 2 5 7 4 1 8

5 9 8 4 2 3 1 7 6

8 4 9 6 5 7 2 3 1

1 3 2 8 9 4 6 5 7

6 7 5 2 3 1 9 4 8

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

1

9-LETTER WORD

31 words: Excellent

hard

A

20

medium

S

19

easy

N

18

4 7

G

17

9 4 3

16

2 3

8

Q R

3 LETTERS ACE ASK AVO BOA BOP HEM HEN ICE IRS KIT LID LIP MES OAR ONE PEA RAG RUM RUN SAD TEE VIA WAN WIN

C D P HM L F S V U Z E I

5

N

4

15

3 1

6

V

3

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

2 5

7 8

5x5

2

14

3 6

7

X Y G N J A O T K B WQ R

1

5 8 1

WORDFIT

10 On what date did Queensland become the first Australian state to ban conversion therapy?

ANSWERS: 1. Homer 2. Perth, Adelaide and Sydney 3. False (they are all female) 4. Megan Washington 5. Jane the Virgin 6. Six 7. Three 8. 2014 9. Monash University 10. August 13, 2020

SUDOKU

19 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

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21 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

USED CAR CHECKOUT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Nissan Pulsar 2013 - 2018

By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring

2013 Nissan Pulsar SSS, and 2016 Nissan Pulsar. (Pictures: Supplied)

The CVT has an interesting feature Nissan calls Smooth Start Assist. This irons out any accelerator pressure imperfections caused by the driver, or rough roads thus giving a smooth and fuel-efficient drive.

Safety systems include front, side and curtains; ABS brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist; traction control and vehicle dynamic control.

There are more Nissan dealers in country and remote areas than is usual in this class as big brother Nissan Patrol is popular in the bush.

Servicing and spare parts prices are about average for this class. Not all spares for Pulsars are stocked in remoter areas of Australia but can generally be delivered within a few days of being needed.

Nissan Pulsars are often owned by conservative drivers, with the possible exception of the sporty SSS, so insurance rates tend to be lower than average. Shop around for the best quote, be sure that you’re comparing

apples with apples.

What to look for Make sure to have a full pre-purchase inspection. If the any faults are found say you won’t buy the car until they have been rectified.

We’ve heard of Pulsars that have always been parked outdoors having dashtop plastic going hard and cracking. Check the other plastics that are exposed to the sun as they may also have the trouble.

CVT autos sound different to conventional automatic transmissions. If the ratio doesn’t seem right for the driving you’re doing, and/or they are noisy, have an expert check it out.

Do the usual standard checks for damage to the wheels and tyres, the front-lefts are usually the ones to suffer.

An engine that doesn’t start within a couple of seconds may need a tune-up, or have issues.

Call a mechanic to inspect it.

There have been quite a few recalls on

General Notices

How much?

Expect to spend from $4000 to $7000 for a 2013 Nissan Pulsar ST; $6000 to $10,000 for a 2013 Ti or a 2015 ST-L; $7000 to $11,000 for 2016 ST; $8000 to $13,000 for a 2015 SSS or a 20165 ST-L; $9000 to $14,000 for a 2016 SSS; $10,000 to $16,000 for a 2018 ST-L; and $12,000 to $18,000 for a 2018 SSS.

Car buying tip Start shopping for a used car, indeed any car, a month or so before you plan to buy. This gives you a feel for the market as well as prices being asked.

RECALLS: To browse recalls on all vehicles go to the ACCC at: www.productsafety.gov.au/ products/transport/cars/

Employment

Public Notices and Event

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Pulsars, all of which should have been rectified by this time. Check www.productsafety.gov. au/products/transport/cars/nissan.

Notice of Adoption of Annual Budget 2021/2022

SITUATION VACANT La Porchetta- Caroline Springs Location

Brimbank City Council has adopted the Annual Budget 2021/2022 at the Council Meeting held Tuesday, 15 June 2021.

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Council also considered and endorsed the Financial Plan 2021-2031 and the Revenue and Rating Plan 2021/22 to 2025/26 at the same meeting.

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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

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22 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

Work with us and enjoy a positive and supportive culture, training opportunities and rewarding work. We will also offer relocation costs for successful applicants.

Learn more about the roles on offer and rewarding lifestyle you can live in Gippsland.

Contact Melissa Hulston on 0432 185 226 or melissa.hulston@vt.uniting.org Please also visit our website: www.unitingvictas.org.au/careers/

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Nissan Pulsar was a big seller in Australia from its introduction way back in 1980. It was called Nissan Tiida from 2006 until 2012, then Pulsar again until 2018 when it fell victim to the SUV craze and was discontinued.

During these missing years several quality cars were introduced and Pulsar didn’t manage to regain its major place on the market.

Another factor for its reduced sales number was the increasing buyer interest in SUVs as these were no longer 4WDs but rather practical family machines. Nissan had been a strong player in 4WDs / SUVs for decades with Patrol, Qashqai, X-Trail and Juke, and the Pulsar lost sales to them.

Initially only Pulsar four-door sedans were imported, a five-door hatch arrived six months later. Model range is Nissan ST, ST-L, ST-S and Ti, as well as the sporty SSS. Pulsar’s rear-seat legroom is good and they can carry two adults in reasonable comfort, three with less of a squeeze than you might expect. The boot is very good in the hatch and positively cavernous in the sedan.

Long distance cruising on Australian country roads had always been a feature of Nissan Pulsars and the new model of 2013 continued that tradition.

A stiff body structure not only offer good crash protection, but also minimises vibration.

Mechanical and road noise have been isolated by extensive use of sound absorbing materials.

A 1.8-litre engine is used in the standard models, with the topline Ti and SSS getting a 1.6-litre turbocharged unit.

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MOTOR

Bold and the beautiful

By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE

The first thing anyone commented about when they saw this week’s road test SUV – the Genesis GV80 – was its size: “It’s big isn’t it?”.

Though it’s almost five metres long and two metres wide, which is large but not exceptionally so, it’s shaped to look bigger than it really is. Bigger is better is often a sales incentive in the SUV field.

GV80 2.5T RWD: $90,600 GV80 2.5T AWD: $95,600 GV80 3.0D AWD: $103,600 GV80 3.5T AWD: $108,600

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

Styling Bold is the first word that comes to mind. The front is totally dominated by a huge grille with headlight housings that seem to be a couple of sizes wider than they need to be.

The rear lights follow the style of the fronts and the tail has a bold centre section. The roof slopes sleekly to the rear and the side windows sweep upwards to give a streamlined look.

Interior

It almost goes without saying that the GV80 has been awarded a five-star ANCAP safety rating.

Driving

Bold shape of the upmarket Genesis GV80 is a real selling point. (Supplied)

Inside the bold look continues, but it has a good combination of upmarket class at the same time. Our test Genesis had a luxury package that includes quilted Nappa leather. It had suede on the pillars and dash as well as timber trim on the centre console.

There’s space for three adults in the centre row seat, though it’s shaped for two individual seats, with the one in the middle being for occasional use only. The two outer rear seats can be adjusted electrically in the manner that we normally only associate with front seats.

Given the size of the vehicle there’s less legroom than you would expect. Getting into the third row of seats isn’t easy because of the height of the vehicle off the ground. Again, there’s not as much legroom as we would like.

There appears to be too much emphasis on boot space, which is positively cavernous.

Perhaps it’s the sweeping style at the rear that has the third-row seats rather limited for headroom.

rev range that’s being used virtually all the time in normal driving.

Safety Infotainment The very wide infotainment and navigation screen is excellent and simple to see at a glance.

Apple Car Play or Android Auto can be easily accessed.Sound comes from 21 Lexicon speakers and Quantum Logic surround sound technology. It is supported by a 14-channel high output external amplifier.

Engines / transmissions Our test vehicle was powered by a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 engine with 279 kW, and 530 Nm of torque the latter with a very wide spread from 1300 to 4500 rpm. So, the torque is in the

When the driver uses the indicators to signal a change direction the speedometer or tacho shows a picture taken by an outside camera of what’s beside and behind the Genesis at that time.

We found ourselves still using the door mirrors, but with more time in the driver’s seat we might come to rely only on the pictures.

There’s not only advanced collision avoidance if other drivers make a mistake, but also a feature that stops you making a driving error. Try to change lanes into another vehicle and it prevents you from doing so by using the brakes or not replying to your steering.

Response from the twin-turbo petrol V6 was very quick, proving that its design is a cracker.

It looks as though the days of the second or two of hesitation before turbo units really get going are virtually no more?

Comfort is very good as the car’s Road Preview Electronic Control Suspension has a forward camera that looks at the road ahead for potholes or bumps.

It then quickly adjusts the suspension damping according to what it sees.

Handling is pretty good for a vehicle of this size and mass though obviously it’s not aimed at the driver who wants to toss it at bends. You can choose to use a Sport setting but if you feel that way inclined, but we wonder how many owners would do this.

Summing up Genesis GV80 is a large SUV positively stacked with many features and is sold for tens of thousands of dollars less than European SUVs in this class.

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23 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Illawong Stardust won by short half-head for trainer Tony Peacock and driver Brian Gath. (Stuart McCormick)

Sleepee slips by Cover of Darkness

By Shaun Campbell An astute split-second decision by driver Josh Duggan has helped star trotter Sleepee add to her impressive Group race record in the Woodlands Stud Noopy Kiosk Trotters Free For All at Tabcorp Park Melton.

The Alison Alford-trained mare sprinted home to edge out favourite Cover Of Darkness in the Group 3 feature in one of several nail-biting finishes on Saturday night.

Sleepee led briefly in the race’s early stages before Cover of Darkness pressed to the front, giving the five-year-old a cosy run in her first race since April 8.

Duggan told Trots Vision she was travelling well around the home turn and he was “in two minds” on whether to bring her out or wait for the sprint lane.

His mind wound back to Cover Of Darkness’s first-up win at Melton on May 29 – and that tipped his hand. “[Cover Of Darkness] wanted to get up the track a lot in the straight and didn’t trot that well last [time], so I opted to stay and wait,” he said.

“That’s … why we opted to take the trail.

[Cover Of Darkness] doesn’t really trot the straights as well as he does the corners and, our horse being first-up, we had to try and look after her at the same stage.

“She was just going off one trial at Bacchus Marsh last week where she came off the second row and just followed them around.

“Tonight we thought she just needed the run as there’s a mares race (Group 2 IRT Australia Matriarch Trot for 4&5YO mares) coming up next week … so we didn’t want to cook her first-up.”

The win, in a 1:56.1 mile rate, was the ultra-consistent mare’s 13th in 26 starts – of which she’s been unplaced just three times – and took her career earnings to just shy of $200,000.

Her record in elite Group races is just as impressive – three wins, three seconds and three thirds from 10 starts.

“She’s pretty versatile; she can do it tough and she can do it sit-sprint style,” Duggan said.

“Tonight I was a little bit worried as in the

Driver Josh Duggan sends Sleepee to the front.

(Stuart McCormick)

warm-up every time I got to the gate she’d stop and want to walk and carry on, which is not like her as usually she’s normally on her toes.

“But tonight she was really quick up the straight.”

Sleepee’s win was one of several close finishes during the night, with Arocknatthepark (who won by a neck for trainer and driver Tony Calabria), Illawong Stardust (short half-head for trainer Tony Peacock and driver Brian Gath), Jimmy The Irishman (half neck for trainer Adam Kelly and driver Zac Phillips) and Mister Fortunia NZ (head for Andy and Kate Gath) also saluting in edge-of-the-seat fashion.

Cover Of Darkness may have just missed, but his trainer Emma Stewart was still able to score a double with Rockasaki in the Allied Express Blossom Lady and Struve in the Alabar Pace.

24 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

Sleepee’s group race record 10 starts, 3 wins, 3 seconds, 3 thirds Group 1: 5 starts, 2 wins, 1 second, 2 thirds 1st - Breed For Speed Gold Final, Crown 2YO Trot Fillies, 2nd - Aldebaran Park 2YO Trot 3rd - VicBred 4YO Trot Mares Final, 3rd TAB Victoria Trotters Oaks Group 2: 3 starts, 1 second, 1 third 2nd - NSW Trotters Oaks 3rd - IRT Australia Matriarch Group 3: 2 starts - 1 win, 1 second 1st - Woodlands Noopy Kiosk Trot 2nd - Woodlands Carlotta’s Pride

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Young star is smashing goals

By Peter Howe Bridgette de la Mere was destined to pursue a sport. She tried swimming, netball, football, athletics and many more, all of which challenged her.

The talented teen would settle on hockey as a 10-year-old at Corpus Christi Primary School in Kingsville.

“I chose hockey when we had a hockey player come to school and showed us how to play,” she said.

“I loved the challenge of mastering the basic skills required to play, my friends all played and I wanted to hang out with them.” de la Mere loves a challenge and is a deep thinker about her sport. Just talking to her, you can hear the passion she has for hockey.

“I play as a striker/midfielder. My role is to get the ball into the ‘D’ to help us score.

“I also need to work hard in defence to help our defensive transition. I have to know where our opposition sets up to give us the best chance to score.”

At 14, de la Mere made Footscray Hockey Club’s premier women’s team.

“I was amazed at how fit the players were, their amazing skill level,” she said.

“All of the players in the team welcomed my selection and got around me, it took me a while to get the hang of it and then my confidence grew.

“I am challenged every time I run onto the field.” de la Mere was selected in her first Victorian state team when she was 13 and hasn’t been out of it since.

She recently competed at the under-18 national championships, with Victoria finishing second.

For de la Mere, it’s about getting the processes

Bridgette de la Mere. (Wisemansports)

right, not the outcome.

“Playing at the highest level is an opportunity to test yourself against the best sportspeople in the country and enjoy yourself doing what you love.

“I have a very positive mindset. I am very comfortable in the moment and don’t explode,

I have a very clear picture of what is required at any moment because we have trained it.

“I train two nights a week at Footscray where we work on match simulation, skills and drills.

“State training is another two and sometimes three sessions a week where we work on game set up, match simulation and penalty corner

strategy.”

Her maturity has seen her develop a team-first approach. She’s also a volunteer coach and umpire for the younger players at her club.

“I am young and can identify with our younger players,” she said.

“I work to gain their trust so we can accept feedback and work together to improve. It’s how our club works.”

She was named the female junior club champion in 2019 for her work at the club.

Much of de la Mere’s fitness and strength work is undertaken at her school, Maribyrnong Secondary College, where she is in the Sports Academy.

Her time in the gym is spent on weightlifting and resistance training, other testing includes the beep test and Yo Yo test. de la Mere has also achieved success at indoor hockey, where she has represented Victoria.

The 16-year-old has eyes on the future and a long career in hockey.

“I’d love to play for Australia,” she said.

“It’s a long process. My aim is to make the emerging squad that consists of players 18 and over to train for the Melbourne team. Then Australia is a possibility.

“If I don’t make it so, be it. I love my sport and will always play it right up to the masters.” de la Mere is the June winner of the Sunshine Western Region Sports Club’s Don Deeble Sports Star Award.

Her 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.

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Australian basketballers Rebecca Allen and Sami Whitcomb play for which WNBA team?

2. Kaylee McKeown recently broke the 100m world record for which swimming stroke?

3. How many Grand Slam men’s singles titles has Novak Djokovic won?

4. Which recently retired player won NRL premierships with the Sydney Roosters in 2013, 2018 and 2019?

5. Sharon Finnan won world championships in 1991 and 1999 playing which team sport?

6. Which two teams are set to play in the 2021 NBL Grand Final series?

7. Which AFLW Premiershipwinning coach recently received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)?

8. Which team ended the recent UEFA Euro 2020 match between Denmark and Finland with a 0-1 victory?

9. Which former fast bowling coach of the Australian cricket team represented Victoria and then Tasmania between 1995 and 2002?

10. Which Australian television network recently secured the rights to all Socceroos and Matildas matches outside of World Cups until the end of 2024?

11. What 2016 Olympic silver medallist swimmer recently withdrew from the upcoming Tokyo Olympics?

Sami Whitcomb

12. What two countries are making their debut at the UEFA Euro 2020 Tournament?

13. Who won the 2020–21 NBA MVP award?

14. Who is the only wildcard entrant to have won the Wimbledon men’s singles title?

15. Which Carlton forward was leading the AFL’s Coleman Medal race at the mid-point of the 2021 season?

16. Which English fast bowler became the seventh cricketer to take 500 wickets in Test Matches in 2020?

17. Which country did the Socceroos defeat 5-1 in a June FIFA World Cup qualifier?

18. How many fouls are allowed by a player in an NBL game before fouling out?

19. Which Super Netball team plays its home matches at Ken Rosewall Arena?

20. What Queensland city will host the final race of the 2021 Supercars Championship in December?

21. Utah Jazz basketballer Joe Ingles was born in which Australian state or territory?

22. In what country was Rugby League legend Bob Fulton born?

23. Hannah Petty is the captain of which Super Netball team?

24. How many times have the Wallabies won the Rugby World Cup final?

25. Over what distance did Ariarne Titmus recently swim the second-fastest freestyle time ever?

26. What sport was at the centre of the 2011 film, Goon?

27. By what nickname is English ski jumper Michael Edwards better known as?

28. Which two-time Wimbledon winner recently won his first match on grass in three years, at the Queen’s Club Championships?

29. What is the name of the newly announced Bowls Premier League team?

30. Which golfer recently withdrew from the Memorial Tournament while leading by six strokes?

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2506

25 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

SPORT St Albans primed for flag tilt St Albans is primed for a tilt at ending its finals drought in Western Region Football League division 1.

Having struggled in recent seasons, the Saints have this season shown they can match it with the top sides.

The Saints returned from a COVID-19-enforced break, sitting in fifth spot with a 4-3 record. With two of those matches decided by a couple of goals, they could quite easily have been sitting higher.

Saints senior assistant coach Zammy Muhtari said they were happy with how things had played out so far.

“We’ve had a pretty good start,” he said. “We should have had one more win then we do.

“Two [close] games we lost are to teams that have played a lot of finals the last seven to eight years consistently.

“We’ve closed the gap from where we were in 2019, but we still have a lot of improvement to come.”

Muhtari said the group had been starting to hit its straps when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the season to halt for three weeks.

He said it was always going to take time for the group to gel together.

“We have had about 13 new players come into the side,” he said.

“It’s been about building and understanding how we are going to play and gel as a group.

“It always takes time with a new playing group and new coaching group. [Senior coach] Sam [Butler] got the job for 2020, but we didn’t get to play any games.”

Muhtari said while the break was frustrating, it had given players with niggling injuries the chance to recover. He said they had lost a

couple of players, including Adem Asani, to season-ending injuries.

“As a club we wrap our arms around them,” he said “It’s sad for those guys who missed last year and are now missing another season.

“We’ll try and get them involved in match day roles.”

The Saints were due to play Werribee Districts after Star Weekly went to press.

Muhtari said the group had been keen to get back out on the field with the players having their eyes firmly on one goal.

“We are sitting in fifth spot and we are happy with that,” he said. “Everyones wants to play some finals. We haven’t played finals for eight years. It’s a long time and we’d like to get there sooner than later.”

Green Gully has hit the track running after the COVID-19 lockdown caused the National Premier League season to be paused.

Since getting the approval to return to the park, the club has trained nearly every day in an attempt to get the players back into shape.

The NPL competition, along with state league competitions, were all due to resume at the weekend, without spectators.

Cavaliers coach Stephen Downes said his playing group had taken the break well and was itching to return to the field. “It’s nice to bring back some normality,” he said.

“The boys have been really good and [are in] good nick and stayed together as a unit.

“After having a long break we thought we needed some frequent sessions to get back into match speed and for injury prevention more than anything. We needed to tune the body back up for this weekend.”

The Cavaliers resume their season after a mixed 13 games, sitting in ninth spot. They have four wins, four draws and five losses.

Downes said the season hadn’t gone as they would have liked and they had plenty to work on. “We are yet to put together consistently 90 minute performances,” he said.

“We will play good for 45 minutes, whether it be the first half or the second half. It’s something we’ve been working on.”

The Cavaliers have stuck with the same side they went into the season with, adding just one player in the transfer window.

Downes said that one player, Dane Milovanovic, had provided some more experience to the side. He said it was something that they needed.

The Cavaliers were due to face Heidelberg United on Sunday, after deadline, in their first match back. Speaking before the match, Downes said he expected it to be a weird feeling with no fans allowed in the stands.

“We’re looking forward to it,” he said.

“It’s always a tricky fixture and I’ll be a little bit different being played before closed doors.

They’ve normally got a good following, we’re just hoping to get the chocolates.”

Despite sitting in the middle of the table, Downes said they hadn’t ruled their season over just yet. The side still has 10 matches remaining, while the three matches which were due to be held during lockdown could be rescheduled.

“The goal is to finish as high as possible, with that being first place. Once that isn’t achievable, it’s second place. We are pushing for finals and with the record the club has been wanting to be competing at the top.”

For the result of Sunday’s match head to www.starweekly.com.au.

26 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 June, 2021

(Mark Wilson)

Tara Murray

Cavaliers ready to play

By Tara Murray

Matthew Grundy.

Stallions exceed expectations Brimbank Stallions have had to reassess their goals for this year’s Football Victoria state league 1 north-west season after a strong start.

The Stallions found themselves sitting in second spot after nine rounds, when the season was halted late last month due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stallions coach Andrew Marth said they were really happy with how the season had played out so far.

“Without a doubt it’s been better than we expected,” he said. “I thought we would be around the middle of the table.

“The boys have certainly overachieved so far and we’re hoping that will continue.”

Marth said the difference had been the addition of some experienced players who had played in the higher-ranked National Premier League.

He highlighted Kym Harris and Chris May, who he had both coached at Melbourne Knights, as two players who had made an impact.

With the side sitting in such a good position, Marth said they had changed their aim and were now looking to try and win promotion into the NPL. It would be a massive rise for the Stallions who were in state league 4 west in 2016. The top two teams in state league 1 north-west will earn promotion, with Marth saying ladder leaders Caroline Springs George Cross are the standout team of the competition.

The Stallions took it to the Georgies in their first match-up, in a 1-1 draw.

“You want to go and get promoted and that will be a huge bonus for the club,” he said. “We’ve got a good opportunity to go five points clear of the Essendon Royals.

When I came to the Stallions [in 2017] they were a third division side.

“We’ve been promoted nearly every year and it’s been a good ride for me and the club.”

The Stallions were set to resume their season on Friday night against Essendon Royals.

Marth admits the break was a blessing in disguise due to some injuries, but the group was keen to get back on the pitch.

“We’ve done three sessions before the game,” he said. “Everyone is keen to get back out there.”

Tara Murray

Jay Davies. (Damjan Janevski) 241210_01

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