Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 20th July 2021 by Star Weekly

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Bacchus Marsh Grammar has been listed as a tier one exposure site after a COVID-19 outbreak closed the school. (Damjan Janevski) 244102_02

COVID-19 testing blitz By Benjamin Millar A COVID-19 outbreak at Bacchus Marsh Grammar school has triggered an urgent testing blitz and forced more than 2300 students into isolation. Pop-up testing sites have been established at the Bacchus Marsh and Ballan railway station carparks and the Moorabool community has been on high alert since news broke of the growing cluster, sparked by an asymptomatic COVID-19 positive teacher attending the school’s staff day last Monday. Although the teacher had no contact with students, fellow teachers became infected with the highly infectious Delta variant and then mixed with students last Tuesday and Wednesday, forcing the immediate closure

of the school’s Maddingley and Woodlea campuses. The outbreak had grown by the weekend to include seven staff and two students. The first teacher to test positive is understood to have acquired the virus from a friend living in Ariele Apartments, the Maribyrnong apartment complex sent into lockdown last Tuesday after COVID-19 positive removalists from NSW spent about five hours at the site. The virus has also spread to the man’s family, including a nine-year-old boy who attended Barwon Heads Primary School while infectious. Bacchus Marsh Grammar staff who attended school last Monday were placed in isolation and the affected campus was closed for cleaning and contact tracing. The Department of Health has classified everyone who was present at the

Maddingley campus of the school on July 13 and 14 as a close contact, meaning they will need to get tested and quarantine for 14 days from their last contact at the school. Household members will also need to isolate for the 14 days if they remain in the same house. Woodlea campus students are also required to remain isolated, however their household members have been told they no longer need to do so. Bacchus Marsh Grammar school principal Andrew Neal wrote to families noting that it was a “difficult and anxious time” for everyone in the community. “Given the nature of the outbreak the whole of the Maddingley campus has been designated a tier one site.” The school shutdown comes after two Ballan

locations were also listed as tier one exposure sites after being visited by the COVID-positive removalist team from NSW. Anybody who visited the Mobil and McDonald’s stores on the westbound side of the Western Freeway between 5pm and 7pm on Thursday, July 8, has been ordered to get tested immediately and quarantine for 14 days from the exposure. The Bacchus Marsh College bus interchange on Grant Street has also been listed as a tier one exposure site for 8.21am to 8.41am last Wednesday, along with a number of school bus trips now listed on the Department of Health’s website. Victoria remains under statewide lockdown as authorities race to deal with the latest breakout, which had grown to 81 active cases by Monday.

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Illustrations light up library

(Supplied)

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

Nursing boss ba nned

Benjamin Millar

By Benjamin Millar

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Ballan Moorabool Shire - Ballan 15 Stead Street Brookfield Lifestyle Brookfield 111-139 Coburns Road Darley Champions IGA Bacchus Marsh Grey Street Diggers Rest FoodWorks 22 Glitter Road Diggers Rest Diggers Rest Post Office 76 Old Calder Highway Gordon Gordon Post Office 65 Main Street Harkness Foodworks 17 Claret Ash Boulevard Hillside Foodworks 595 Melton Highway Kurunjang Kirkton Drive Milkbar 203 Gisborne - Melton Road Melton E-View Real Estate Suite 10, 3 Alexandra Street Melton Blue Nile Groceries 39 Bakery Square Melton Melton Milkbar 44 Burleigh Road Melton Melton Waves Leisure Centre 206 Coburns Road Melton TAB Corp Park 2 Ferras Road Melton Melton Shire Council Offices 232 High Street Melton Sweeney Real Estate 266 High Street Melton Barry Plant Real Estate 273 High Street Melton Advance Stationers 283 High Street Melton Raine and Horne Real Estate 289 High Street Melton Melton Lotto 293 High Street

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

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2 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

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More police needed: Council By Benjamin Millar Melton council will write to the state government calling for extra police officers to be stationed in the local area. Councillor Bob Turner brought forward a motion at the December council meeting seeking an analysis of police numbers and crime rates against the rapid population increase in the City of Melton. A report by the council’s community safety officer Elizabeth Johnston, tabled at a recent council meeting, assessed the crime rate within the City of Melton against population

increases over the past 10 years. The report found that the population has grown from 112,643 people in 2011 to 180,686 in 2021, an increase of almost 70,000 people or 66 per cent. “In the same decade, there has been an overall (but fluctuating) increase in the number of criminal incidents across the City of Melton from 6065 to 10,113,” the report found. “This represents a total growth of more than 4000 incidents, or 65 per cent. The increase in criminal incidents across the municipality is therefore considered to be relatively proportionate to the population growth.”

Because statistics on police numbers are not available prior to 2018, this data could only be provided for the past three years. Assessment of the number of police in the Melton service area revealed a nine per cent increase in police officer numbers from 108 to 118 between 2018 and 2020. During the same period, the population in the City of Melton grew by about 10 per cent from 156,718 to 172,500 people. “This indicates that the population has increased at a rate similar to the number of police officers,” the report stated. Cr Turner told the meeting he was “very

New outlook for ‘beauty’ Public servant by day and screen ‘beauty’ by night, Maddingley’s Keira Johnstone is making her mark in the latest reality TV show reboot. Ms Johnston is lighting up new episodes of Beauty and the Geek, revived this year after last screening in 2014. The show involves 10 aspiring ‘beauties’ and 10 hopeful ‘geeks’ working together through a series of challenges in the search for a romantic spark or lifelong friendship. The winning couple also collects a $100,000 prize. Ms Johnstone, 23, said she jumped at the chance to be involved after loving the earlier episodes of the show. “I did watch it previously all those years ago and I used to love it, I think it’s always been a really good feelgood show and pretty funny,” she told Star Weekly. “People are sick of drama at the moment, I think that it’s a nice break from all of the drama that has been on TV – it is certainly a very wholesome show that brings out the best in people.” Ms Johnstone said being involved in the show has been a personal revelation, making her rethink her whole approach to friendships and relationships. “I think prior to going into the experience, certainly with relationships and stuff, I had a pretty narrow-minded concept on my idea of men,” she said. “Most of the girls would agree that we date not really nice guys, it’s all about looks. “I think I’ve come away from the experience with a broader mind, I’m way more open-minded now even with friendships as well.” Ms Johnstone said she has approached the show as herself and what viewers see is a true reflection of who she really is. “People see me exactly as I am, people are really happy that I’ve stayed true to myself throughout the experience,” she said. “I brought the element of drama, I suppose

‘‘

I think I’ve come away from the experience with a broader mind

’’

- Keira Johnstone

that’s just who I am. I’m a fiery person, I would take that from my mum and my nan, who have always been super independent and tell it like it is. “They’ve been amazing role models to me.” She now hopes other people will also reconsider their own attitudes and rethink how they judge people around them. “I think that we’ll all really challenge people to realise being beautiful isn’t just the surface level, it’s how you make people feel.” Beauty and the Geek airs 7pm Sunday and 7.30pm Monday and Tuesday on Nine and anytime on 9Now. Benjamin Millar

disappointed” there was only a three year comparison of police numbers available. Cr Sophie Ramsay said it was important to keep an eye on the safety statistics and police numbers in the area as residents would expect the council to be proactive in its community safety advocacy. Councillors voted to authorise officers to prepare letters for relevant ministers from the mayor to advocate for further police resourcing in the City of Melton. Officers will also report back to the council with a comparison of police numbers relative to population from various other areas.

Asbestos found on school oval A Fraser Rise school principal says the school is safe despite asbestos containing material being found at the school last month. Parents and students at Springside West Secondary College were informed just before the school holidays that asbestos containing material had been found on the school oval. In a letter to parents, seen by Star Weekly, principal John Goodman said the oval would remain fenced off until the appropriate soil remediation activities are completed. “I’m writing to inform you of recent soil testing undertaken on the school oval which has identified asbestos containing material,” the letter said. “I want to assure you that our school is safe. The health and safety of our school community is paramount, and we are working with the Victorian School Building Authority and independent occupational hygienists to appropriately manage the situation. “The results of the testing indicate that non-friable asbestos has been identified in the subsurface of the oval. Non-friable asbestos is hard bonded together and will not easily crumble or be turned into powder. It is less of a risk than friable asbestos. “I would like to assure you that the safety of all students, staff and the wider community remains the highest priority throughout this process.” Tara Murray

Keira Johnstone in Beauty and the Geek. (Supplied)

Have your say about health care services and WIN a $100 voucher.

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3 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

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Murder charges Homicide Squad detectives have charged two men following the death of Ikenasio Tuivasa at a Ravenhall pool hall earlier this year. A 26-year-old Hoppers Crossing man was arrested last Tuesday and charged with murder and intentionally causing serious injury. A 26-year-old Cairnlea man was arrested and has also been charged with murder and intentionally causing serious injury. Both men will face Melbourne Magistrates Court at a later date. Mr Tuivasa, 33, died following an alleged drive-by shooting in Westwood Drive in Ravenhall on February 27.

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Deputy mayor Goran Kesic, Crime Prevention Minister Natalie Hutchins and Brimbank Melton Community Legal Centre principal lawyer Martin Ha at the funding announcement. (Supplied)

Community safety boost Melton residents will have their say in how $700,000 of state government funding will be spent on improving community safety and tackling the root causes of crime. Crime Prevention Minister Natalie Hutchins announced the funding for Melton as part of the Empowering Communities Program. The Department of Justice and Community Safety allocated up to $700,000 over three years for crime prevention and community safety initiatives. Representatives from the area’s community organisations and services have formed a project action group to devise and outline the initiatives before presenting them to the minister for final sign off. A Building Safer Communities Forum held

in Melton in March gave locals the chance to come together to discuss their concerns on crime and safety issues. Ms Hutchins said the grant will help address concerns raised at the forum and follows recent investment in crime prevention in Melton, including the redevelopment of ‘Little Blind Creek’ to create a playground, exercise equipment, park seating and picnic tables. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said she is looking forward to seeing the outcomes of the program. “Having this opportunity in the City of Melton is a real win for our residents.”

Police have charged four teenagers who were arrested in Melton following the theft of three cars from a Point Cook home. Police allege the teens were located in a stolen blue 2020 Mercedes SUV on Barries Road about 7.50am last Wednesday. A 14-year-old from Harkness, a 16-year-old from Brookfield and a 16-year-old from Melton West have each been charged with multiple offences and will appear at a children’s court at a later date. An 18-year-old man from Brookfield was remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court at a later date.

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Pricing under the pump

Pricing under the pump By Benjamin Millar

By Benjamin Millar Melton’s petrol prices are coming under greater scrutiny with a local MP vowing to help take action to bring prices in line with neighbouring areas. Melton MP Steve McGhie said the area’s families are being unfairly hit with higher prices than people in neighbouring suburbs, often paying more than 20 cents per litre extra at the pump and spending at least $10 more every time they fill up.

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

‘‘

strongly encourage residents to complain to the ACCC

’’

- Steve McGhie

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

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

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

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

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

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Artists and arts practitioners are invited to make the most of this unique opportunity to put their own spin on this year’s festival theme, Celebrate today, imagine the future.

We’re looking for exciting ideas that engage diverse communities throughout the day.

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Don’t miss the chance to create a day-long, interactive, ephemeral installation at this year’s Djerriwarrh Festival the City of Melton’s largest one-day community party for the people.

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Campervan program ruled out By Benjamin Millar Moorabool councillors have rejected a proposal for the council to join a program aimed at encouraging more campervans to visit and stay in the area. Council staff have been evaluating a proposal first raised in 2018 for the area’s inclusion in the RV Friendly Town program operated by the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia Limited, subject to an evaluation of locations. An assessment examined the suitability of various sites, the expected cost and other

relevant criteria for providing short-term, low-cost overnight parking for self-contained recreational vehicles and an associated dump point. A report by economic development and activation co-ordinator Andy Waugh, prepared for this month’s council meeting, identified a number of reasons not to support joining the RV Friendly Town program. The assessment focused on council-owned sites of suitable size and in close proximity to services defined under the program criteria. “This limited the sites that could be considered and furthermore excluded smaller

towns and settlements,” the report stated. The three sites selected were Rotary Park in Bacchus Marsh, Werribee Vale Road opposite Peppertree Park in Maddingley and Mill Park in Ballan, but each was found to have significant shortcomings including a lack of benefit to existing businesses.“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the tourism sector with a need to support local businesses, in particular accommodation providers which have experienced high numbers of cancelled bookings,” the report stated. “RV users should preferably be directed to

current businesses which have a dump point as opposed to establishing a separate dump point to meet the criteria for inclusion in the RV Friendly Town program.” The council will instead focus on future marketing campaigns that include RV users, with a focus on attracting higher numbers of visitors and increasing their length of stay. Cr Rod Ward moved a motion that council adopt the recommendation to lend support to local businesses with established infrastructure as opposed to actively participating in the program.

Share a love of reading Melton pupils will receive a helping hand developing their literacy skills thanks to a new Vinnies reading club starting up in the area next week. Beginning July 28, the Melton Education Program will run as a free reading club from 3.45-5pm Wednesdays throughout the school year. The Melton Education Program has a focus on the four pillars of literacy – reading, writing, speaking and listening. It will have the capacity to support 30 pupils from different primary schools in the area and a range of different cultural backgrounds. St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria education team leader Linette Etheredge said the program works with young people of primary school age to develop a love of reading and to build skills and confidence with literacy. “The program assists students with literacy and numeracy, as well as general social,

emotional and academic support,” she said. Dr Etheredge said this holistic approach helps to improve overall educational outcomes, but in order to support the pupils more volunteers are urgently needed. “The Vinnies education team would welcome any volunteer, but in particular we would love to see some of the senior members of our community supporting young people from non-English speaking homes to read books in English,” she said. Dr Etheredge said no experience is necessary, just a love of reading and a desire to share your love of reading with young people who live in the Melton area. People interested in volunteering can contact program co-ordinator Tessa Tribe on 0418 145 985 with any questions or apply online via svdpvolunteers.applynow.net.au Benjamin Millar

Vinnies will introduce the weekly Melton Education Program on July 28. (Supplied)

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Power line group members resign By Benjamin Millar Disgruntled community members have walked away from a consultation group formed only months ago to seek input on the controversial Western Victoria Transmission Network Project (WVTNP). The AusNet Community Consultation Group (CCG) members announced their resignation last week citing misrepresentation and “lack of empathy” from AusNet representatives over plans to install power lines from beyond Ballarat to Sydenham. The group was introduced in April to assist with

community consultation on the project. Members allege that AusNet shared the news of its preferred corridor with the media on June 30 without first informing the CCG members. In a joint statement they said a group of former CCG members are holding a number of WTVNP information nights along the proposed corridor. The first community information night was held at the Waubra Football Club on July 14 and a second community meeting held in Clunes on July 18. The former CCG members are also working on a telephone support service to assist elderly and vulnerable landholders navigate AusNet’s

land access requests, as they begin to conduct surveys and land investigations over the coming months. “This is seen by the group as an essential service to support the mental health and wellbeing of the community,” the statement said. AusNet said the CCG provided valuable input and will continue to play a vital role. “The community consultation group is an additional opportunity to share information about the project with the community and encourage constructive two-way discussion and feedback in a forum run by an independent chair,” it said in a statement.

Running to raise awareness Kelly Conroy is on a mission. Growing up on her family’s property in Bunding, near Ballan, she grew to appreciate the wide open skies above the rolling landscape. But she now fears that will be shattered by the erection of 85-metre towers and high-voltage lines cutting near the family home. To raise awareness of the project she hatched a plan – a 160-kilometre run to highlight just how far the wires will travel and how much of the landscape will be impacted. “The 160 kilometres will be a distance I’ve never done before,” she said. “Last year I ran two 100-kilometre events, I just do it as a hobby not to compete in any way – running makes me really value where I live and the outdoors and my community.” Ms Conroy said a continuous 160-kilometre run will certainly be a physical and mental challenge, but she has been inspired by the work of her community to fight for the transmission lines to be buried underground. “I know so many people in [the community] are working tirelessly while also working and raising families, they are putting so much time and dedication and energy into the campaign opposing it happening and for [the power lines] to go underground,” she said. “It just shows how strongly communities will band together, I wanted to another way we can raise awareness of this and that’s why I’m doing the run.” The original plan had been to carry out the run as part of the Hardcore 100 mile event at the You Yangs over the weekend, but the snap COVID-19 lockdown threw a spanner in the works. Plan B was to devise a 160-kilometre course around regional Victoria close to the family farm, but given the entire state has now been thrown into lockdown, the two-hour limit on exercise has thrown that plan out the window as well. She is now in the process of confirming another day and time in which she can complete the run once restrictions are eased. “Since we put that idea out there, it’s kind

Kelly Conroy with her father and run supporter Archie Conroy. (Supplied)

of brought up the morale out there and been a positive thing for the community,” she said. “The 160 kilometres is a very, very, very long distance and we need to respect it, but it’s about trusting your training and yourself.”

Vision for Melton’s future The Melton community’s aspirations for the area for the next 20 years have been captured in a new council vision. ‘Melton City 2041 – The City We Create’ was developed by members of the community in conjunction with the council. Formed around five key themes, the community vision will be used to guide council’s planning and decision making. The five themes are Our Socially Connected City, Our Thriving Natural Environment, Our Well-Built City, Our Strong Local Economy and Our Actively Engaged People. As part of the consultation process, the council established a community panel to develop the vision statement. Panel member Cheryl Avila, a Burnside resident, said the panel discussed quality education opportunities, transport improvements, health needs, and environmental sustainability. “The five themes in the community vision really resonated with me and it makes me excited for the next 20 years,” she said. “This is what I want for the future and I think it’s what others want for the future of the City of Melton too.” Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the community vision will help influence the council’s decisions. “Created by our community, this is an exciting vision that encompasses the many hopes our residents have for the future of their city,” she said. “We will use this as a tool to ensure that our community’s voice, needs and aspirations are at the heart of council’s ongoing work to shape our growing city and meet everyone’s needs.” Benjamin Millar

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Consultation group members Katherine Myers, Roger Lowery, Glen Jones and Bill Saunders have resigned. (Supplied)

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Contact retail@starweekly.com.au to see how Star Weekly can help. #InThisTogether 12449133-LB20-20

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NEWS

New Hawke electorate confirmed By Benjamin Millar People living in an area stretching from Bulla to Ballan will be voting in the country’s newest seat at the next federal election. Booming population growth in Melbourne’s north-west has triggered a redistribution of federal electoral boundaries and the need for an extra seat to be known as ‘Hawke’. The Redistribution Committee for Victoria published a report in March that proposed new boundaries for Victoria’s federal electoral divisions and a new seat covering Melton, Bacchus Marsh and Sunbury, named after late former prime minister Bob Hawke.

Town crier Gavin Barker at the historic Lal Lal station. (Supplied)

Hub plan for historic station The historic Moorabool township of Lal Lal will have its own community hub under a revitalisation program that will restore the bluestone railway station. The Lal Lal Station building was built in 1862 and served passengers travelling on the Geelong-Ballarat line. The station is one of 10 of the state’s historic station buildings VicTrack is restoring through the Community Use of Vacant Rail Buildings Program. Future uses include being a tourist information site, a home for the town’s photography group and a community centre. Buninyong MP Michaela Settle recently joined Moorabool mayor Paul Tatchell at the station to announce the funding. “Lal Lal Community, Lal Lal Primary School, Lal Lal Photo Group Inc and the whole town will soon get to share this amazing space in the town’s historic bluestone railway station,” she said. “The works by VicTrack will fully restore the structure and the interior of the building.” A VicTrack spokesperson said the program involves restoring disused station buildings in regional towns, some of which have been vacant for decades, so they can be used by community groups. “Often rural communities don’t have nearby spaces for people to get together or for local groups to use, so the program has the double benefit of bringing the station buildings back to life while providing the community with new spaces for them to enjoy,” the spokesperson said. “The restored buildings also provide a boost to the regional economy, by attracting tourists and visitors to rural towns.” Construction works are expected to begin next year and expected to be complete by mid-2022. Benjamin Millar

‘‘

written objections ... have been carefully considered - Susan Kenny

’’

The redistribution was forced by the need to increase the number of electoral divisions in Victoria from 38 to 39 to keep pace with population growth. The Electoral Commission for Victoria has formally announced the outcome of its deliberations, taking up most of the recommendations including the new seat of Hawke. Justice Susan Kenny, the presiding

member, said the final decision took into account public feedback on the proposals. “All written objections and comments, as well as the information presented at the online inquiry, have been carefully considered in deciding the final names and boundaries,” she said. “The augmented Electoral Commission has also unanimously accepted the Redistribution Committee’s proposed boundary changes to the remaining electoral divisions and the creation of the new Division of Hawke.” The changes will apply from July 26 but a representative for the seat will not be in place until the next full federal election, which must

be held by May 21 next year. Several objections to the proposed redistribution argued Bacchus Marsh should not be located in the same electoral division as Sunbury and Melton, but should remain in a regional electoral division. Others suggested that more or all of Moorabool Shire should be retained in the Division of Ballarat and that the eastern boundary of the Division of Hawke should extend eastwards along the rail corridor rather than northwards, excluding Sunbury. However the Electoral Commission decided that placing Bacchus Marsh in a different electoral division would force large changes to a number of divisions.

ARM AGAINST COVID-19 A COVID-19 vaccine is your best defence and our only way forward. Now’s the time to arm yourself, your family, your friends, your work mates, your community – someone you love. Book your vaccination online or call 1800 020 080.

Find out when you can get vaccinated australia.gov.au Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra. 7 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Tower residents find new homes By Alesha Capone Almost two hundred public housing tenants have moved to the western and northern suburbs under a program to relocate those considered at “greatest risk from coronavirus” due to living in high-density buildings in inner Melbourne. The state government announced the $31.7 million Tower Relocation Program last year, which offers public housing tenants at sites including Flemington the chance to move into a private rental property. The program offered 420 households in Melbourne’s high-rise towers, including residents with a medical condition and large

‘‘

part of our ongoing work to keep … public housing tenants safe - Richard Wynne

’’

families, the opportunity to move into a privately-leased property in the northern or western suburbs for up to two years before returning to a permanent public housing property. A total of 260 tenants registered interest in the program and 180 people have been matched to a suitable property. Homes Victoria, which manages the state’s social housing system, implemented the relocation program.

A Homes Victoria spokesperson said the authority worked with households to match their needs and location preferences with available private rental properties. “Where a match was made, residents were assisted to relocate,” the spokesperson said. “We are continuing to look at other long-term solutions for households where a suitable property on the private market could not be found.” Homes Victoria looked at more than 800 properties in its search for new homes for the tenants. Housing Minister Richard Wynne said the Tower Relocation Program was operating alongside health support for tenants.

Sons of the West health program graduates. (Supplied)

Sons of the West graduates kick health goals

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8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

“It’s part of our ongoing work to keep high-rise public housing tenants safe and supported during the pandemic,” he said. The Victorian Public Tenants’ Association (VPTA) last year welcomed the announcement of the Tower Relocation Program, saying it hoped the initiative would improve living conditions for residents. The VPTA said that for “many years” families living in public housing have been “cramped into very small living quarters around the state, and particularly in the high-rise towers”. “We hope that the Tower Relocation Program will quickly begin to address some of these issues,” the association said.

Melton men kicking personal health goals have graduated from the Western Bulldogs’ 2021 Sons of the West program. Delivered by Melton council in partnership with the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation, the free 10-week program for men who live or work in the area wrapped up last week with a special presentation ceremony. The program’s 80 participants spent an hour each week taking part in physical activity or fitness sessions led by qualified fitness professionals. Speakers presented to the group on a range of topics relating to health and wellbeing and the program also provided opportunities for social connection. Recent participant Anthony Simcox said the program was “a breath of fresh air”. “Here I could learn about the things which impact men’s health, and at the same time be in an environment where I could talk to other men facing similar issues without worrying about being judged.” Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the group displayed an impressive commitment to their wellbeing and health, with many making positive lifestyle changes. “Programs like Sons of the West make a real difference to the lives of those who take part, which is why I’m so proud that council continues to partner with the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation to deliver the program throughout our city,” she said. “After 10 challenging weeks, participants improved their mental and physical wellbeing by hearing the motivational words of guest speakers and participating in physical activities and health education.” The Daughters of the West free health program also began last week, with 75 local women enrolled. Past participant Elaine Yap said the course had a powerful impact on her. “It helped me bridge the gap to where I am now,”she said. “It helped me identify what I can do in retirement, and how to do it. It showed me a way to move forward in the community.” Benjamin Millar

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NEWS

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

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

July 22, 1981

July 17, 1991

July 17, 2001

July 19, 2011

Public apathy and a poor order of priorities has forced the cancellation of this year’s Presidential Ball at Bacchus Marsh.

Inspectors from the Environment Protection Authority took samples from the Lerderberg River in Bacchus Marsh last Wednesday after they received complaints about white foam covering the water surface.

Plans for a 600-bed maximum-security prison in Truganina have received a harsh reception from Melton Council.

Dancing in the city: Suburban studios put best foot forward.

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40 years ago

9 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

20 July 2021

STAY INFORMED

Mayor’s message

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

Cr Kathy Majdlik

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

Together with our community, Council have been strong and vocal advocates for the new Melton hospital for many years and I’m absolutely thrilled that the preferred site was announced by the Victorian Government this month.

Significant roads investment: Melton; Melton South; Toolern Vale

Melton hospital a step closer

We’re investing $70.27 million in local roads across the City of Melton as part of the 2021-2022 council budget. These extensive works will include road upgrades, traffic lights and road constructions at a number of key roads to improve the flow of local traffic.

A new Melton hospital is another step closer, with the Victorian Government announcing the preferred site.

The announcement of the Cobblebank location brings this extremely important and muchneeded facility another step closer to being developed, which I know is very welcome news for both Council and our community who have supported the campaign for a local public hospital.

• Major road upgrade: Bulmans Road, West Melton (from High Street to Centenary Avenue)

• Road construction: – Bridge Road (from Ferris Road to Robinsons Rise Estate), Cobblebank

• Traffic lights and pedestrian crossing: Brooklyn and Station roads, Melton South • Road extension: Boundary Road (from Mt Cottrell Road to The Mall), Mt Cottrell

– Troups Road South (from Greigs Road to Boundary Road), Truganina • Road sealing: Creamery Road, Toolern Vale

Minister for Health, Martin Foley MP visited Cobblebank this month to announce that land at 245-267 Ferris Road, Cobblebank had been selected as the site for the new 24-hour hospital. With the support of the community, Council has advocated strongly for a new Melton hospital and will continue to advocate for the timely delivery of this facility. The state government’s business case into the Melton hospital is being finalised and will guide detailed planning of the facility. The next steps will include completing the land acquisition, determining the model of care and allocating significant funds to construct the facility.

Cambridge Ward with Cr Steve Abboushi As the COVID situation continues to affect individuals, families and indeed, entire communities across Victoria, it’s important to remember that there are a number of support services available to City of Melton residents through Council’s Connector Hubs. Stevenson House in Caroline Springs, and Timbertop Children’s and Community Centre in Aintree, are two such hubs, offering support and information on how to access COVID support services. They’re also a great way for residents to stay connected, healthy and informed, particularly during lockdown.

If you’re looking for information about food relief, financial or mental health counselling, job readiness, social connection or online learning activities, Connector Hubs are a great place to start. The hubs can be accessed by appointment only, so be sure to call or email in advance to set up a time to talk to someone. For more information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/connectorhubs Some good news to help bolster the spirits of Cambridge Ward residents was received when Council adopted its 2021/2022 budget a few weeks ago, and included funding for exciting works at Burnside Heights Recreation Reserve.

The $1.8 million project has received $500,000 in funding from the Federal Government under its Local Roads & Community Infrastructure funding program, and will deliver a new grass oval, replacement oval fencing, shelters for players and officials, and replacement of the synthetic cricket wicket. To find out more about this project and others approved as part of Council’s 2021/2022 budget, visit Council’s website. Please feel free to contact me for Cambridge Ward or Council related issues on 0437 231 680 or steve.abboushi@melton.vic.gov.au, or like my Facebook page @ AbbsMelton

With an urgent and growing need for hospital services in the outer west, a new Melton hospital is of course a high priority and we thank the government for recognising the health needs of our community. We will continue to strongly advocate to the state government to ensure that they include construction funds in the 2022/2023 budget, to begin construction in 2022, and to ensure the hospital is operational in 2026. The community desperately needs and deserves the Melton hospital. On another note, we’ve just adopted a renewed community vision outlining the community’s priorities and aspirations for the City of Melton’s future. ‘Melton City 2041—The City We Create’ is an exciting vision that will be used as a tool to help influence key Council decisions and ensure that our community’s voice, needs and aspirations are at the heart of Council’s work. I’d like to thank everyone who helped create a document that reflects a broad range of community aspirations by providing feedback as part of our in-depth consultation. 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

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Lara Carli

Cr Moira Deeming

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

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10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

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NEWS

Campaign to save ‘dying’ river

People for A Living Moorabool (PALM) co-ordinator Cameron Steele at the Moorabool River. (Supplied)

By Benjamin Millar Cameron Steele has a stark warning about the fate of the once impressive Moorabool River – act now or watch it die. The People for A Living Moorabool (PALM) co-ordinator has spent years watching the river become drier and drier, precious water flow extracted and diverted before it completes its natural journey from the highlands near Ballan to join the Barwon River near Geelong. By the time the Lal Lal, Moorabool and Bostock reservoirs take their cut there is very little left for the dwindling natural habitat along the riverway. Mr Steele said it has now reached the point where the Moorabool barely even makes it to its junction with the Barwon River.

‘‘

it’s dying and there’s no real way around that

’’

- Cameron Steele “It’s Victoria’s most flow-stressed river – about 90 per cent of the Moorabool’s natural flow is now taken for human use, primarily for Ballarat and Geelong,” he said. Much of the change has occurred before Mr Steele’s eyes. He has seen the health of the river deteriorate over the years, particularly since the late 1990s. “My wife when I was courting her lived in a little place called Russells Bridge near Bannockburn,” he said. “During the millennium drought we actually saw the river decline dramatically. It wasn’t something we’d ever experienced in all our times using the river, we were walking kilometre after kilometre of dry riverbed.” The decline was the catalyst for the formation of PALM, which has since campaigned for more environmental water flows to be returned to the Moorabool. Mr Steele said that despite the heavy pressure on the river’s health, the Moorabool still flows through wonderful gorges and valleys. “Some sections contain iconic Australian wildlife, such as the platypus and rakali, as well as beautiful riverside bushland,” he said. “However, unless the Moorabool gets

more water to restore its health, the river will continue to deteriorate and completely die.” Mr Steele hasn’t given up hope and knows the river and the wildlife that depends upon it could still be brought back closer to its former glory. “We’re calling on the Victorian government to give back 20,000 megalitres per year,” he said. The campaign includes the creation of a new film, The River Moorabool, which has been screening in communities affected by the river’s degradation. A collaboration between People for A living Moorabool and She Oaks Films, the film has been timed to coincide with the release of the draft review of the state government’s Gippsland and Central Region Water Strategy. Moorabool River farmer and PALM supporter Ian Penna, who was part of the production team, said the film documents the best and worst of the river and explores how it can be restored. “We have watched the river deteriorate because of lower flows,” he said. “Scientific research from 2005 shows the Moorabool needs a minimum increase in its environmental flow of 20,000 megalitres a year if it is to have a healthy future – this is now only about 5000 megalitres.” Restoration options include smarter management of farm and government dams to reduce water loss and waste, Mr Penna said, plus increased urban use of recycled water, waste water, and desalination. Mr Steele said Victoria is facing its last chance to secure a long-term future for the Moorabool River and its wildlife. “After seeing our film, we want citizens using the river and drinking its water to tell the Victorian government to give the Moorabool River the regular big drinks it deserves,” he said. “We’re seeing increased periods of low flow to no flow, we feel the trajectory of the river is still on a spiral – what’s facing the river now is that it is dying and there’s no real way around that.” The River Moorabool will screen via BacchChat with a discussion to follow at Lerderderg Library in Bacchus Marsh from 10am to noon, Saturday, August 7. Bookings via eventbrite.com.au

The Moorabool River, top to bottom: Granite Falls near La Lal; The river near Meredith; A choked weir (left); A desiccated stretch of the river. (Pictures: Supplied) 11 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

A voice for young people A podcast started during the COVID-19 pandemic to help give a voice to young people in Melbourne’s west continues to go from strength to strength. Tara Murray catches up with creators, Michael Lim and Julia Truong to find out more about Collective West, the inspiration behind the podcast and what to expect in the second season.

“W

hat we saw from the first and second lockdown was the disproportionate impact that the lockdown had not only on Melbourne’s west, but in Brimbank,” Michael Lim recalls. “We saw how much it was affecting young people.” Keen to find some way for young people to approach the pandemic in a different light, the 2018 Brimbank young citizen of the year started thinking about what he could do to make a difference. Lim wanted to help young people who had lost their jobs and were experiencing mental health problems to connect with others. When he decided to start a podcast, he reached out to his good friend Julia Truong, a fellow Brimbank resident, and got the conversation going. “We saw the disproportionate impact that this was having on the west and the clear connection between having low education and payment with work,” he said.

‘‘

create a platform for young people by young people - Julia Truong

’’

“I think it was anger and injustice. Because we couldn’t be there face-to-face and we couldn’t have gatherings, or even talk to people, we wanted to create a platform where we could be a voice for young people. “Being young people ourselves, we thought about interviewing thought leaders or community leaders from across the west that may not have a platform or speak to other young people. “We thought how can they turn this challenge into an opportunity? We wanted to create a really positive social impact across the west.” Truong jumped at the opportunity to work with Lim on the project. She said Collective West started as two good friends sharing some insights and grew from there. “It’s really exciting how it has evolved over time,” she said. “The people we’ve managed to interview so far have been very fascinating. Looking back, if I was younger… I would have found it to be helpful. “As positive role models in our community, we wanted to create a platform for young people by young people, and help break down that cycle of disadvantage.” The podcast started with the pair talking about their experiences. Since then, their guests have included Brimbank deputy mayor Jasmine Nguyen, former Western Chances chief executive Rhyll Dorrington and Reana Cazar, a senior associate at a social impact firm that works in Melbourne’s west. Both Lim and Truong admitted they were surprised by the impact that the podcast series had on local people. “Part of me thought it might not work out and people might not be receptive to it, but the majority of the feedback we are getting is people who are appreciative of other young people, community leaders, a platform and the listeners getting so much value from it,” Lim said. “They get so much value out of hearing these Julia Truong and Michael Lim on their podcast, and in Brimbank (right). (Pictures: Supplied) stories having lived experiences. A person who is like them and has grown up in the same area This series of 10 episodes is called the He said the grant gave them the means to pay and community as them, [talking and sharing] #MelbsWest Youth Leadership. Guests include guests for their time. emotions they have felt, is a really rewarding co-founder of 100 Story Building, Lachlann “There’s also that recognition from the experience.” Carter, managing director and founder of state government that we are doing things The podcast is now celebrating its first Equal Ed, Jeffrey Lai, and Wyndham Tech differently, adding value to the lives of local anniversary. A $10,000 state government grant School director Gail Bray. people across Brimbank and the people of the has recognised the contribution of the podcast Lim said they were ecstatic to be able to west,” he said. and is helping it continue. continue to share important stories. Both Lim and Troung are keen to further 12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

expand the podcast. “We want to reach more people, run more podcast and interview, and hopefully we will be allowed more in-person events, bring together the guests and listeners [at] events across western Melbourne. One thing missing through COVID-19 was social connection and connection to the community.”

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY

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

Tax return help Melton South Community Centre is now booking appointments for members of the community wanting help with their 2020-21 tax returns, as well as eligible households wanting to claim the $250 Power Saving Bonus. For more information or to schedule an appointment: ■ 9747 8576

Through the lens Damjan Janevski captured this photo of the Melbourne skyline as viewed from Williamstown. (243871_01)

Sewing classes in Melton South Intro to Sewing is now open for enrolments at Melton South Community Centre. Beginners can learn how to use their sewing machine and work on some simple projects. Weekly classes run on Tuesdays from July 27 to September 14 or on Thursdays from July 29 to September 16, 9.30am to noon. The cost is $50/$30 concession. ■ 9747 8576

Beauty courses Melton South Community Centre’s Term 3 Intro to Beauty course is now taking enrolments. Learn makeup skills, nail techniques, body waxing and more in this pre-accredited course, running from July 31 to August 21 for a 10am start. The cost is $140/$100 concession. ■ 9747 8576

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

Singing group Join the Melton South Community Singers at the Melton South Community Centre on the first and third Tuesday of each month. ■ Sue, 0400 082 413

Melton South Knit & Natter All welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa. ■ 9747 8576

St Albans winter lights Come out onto the streets of St Albans for a night of music, entertainment and neon lights. The free family event promises popcorn, fairy floss and many photo opportunities. Check it out on the corner of Main Road East and St Albans Road on July 31 from 5pm. ■ STATownCentre@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Business networking breakfast The next monthly business breakfast from StartNorth is coming up. Bring your business cards for a morning of networking and chat with business owners from around the area. Join the conversation at 12 Dimboola Road, July 22 at 8am. ■ https://bit.ly/36tyUKj

Slow Food Farmers Market The Slow Food Melbourne Farmers Market is nearly here. Stallholders are promising to celebrate food and the joys of eating by sharing their responsible produce. The next market is at the Spotswood-Kingsville RSL, 59 The Avenue, Spotswood, July 24 from 8am. ■ 0438 318 319

Tree planting at Toolern Creek Friends of Toolern Creek are continuing to plant Poa lab along the Toolern Creek to support local wildlife. Meet at the corner of Barries Road and Darlingsford Boulevard on July 25 at 10am.

MyTime@Tweddle Newport is a peer support group for parents/carers of children with additional needs. Meeting each Friday at 10am during term 3 in the community room at Newport Gardens Early Years Centre, 51 Maddox Road, Newport. ■ kim.mace@tweddle.org.au The Kyneton Museum is holding Treasures of This Land, a three-week exhibition that promises to be a celebration of the diverse natural surroundings of the Macedon Ranges. The artists include Daniel Butterworth, Peter Cole, Samantha Slicer, Karan Hayman and Jason Waterhouse. ■ 1300 888 802

Garden club

The 2021 AGM for Altona U3A Inc. will be held at 1pm on Friday, July 30 at Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre, Altona. Bookings essential. ■ 9398 1346

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

Hobsons Bay band

Fibro/CFS Support

My Social Club

Expressions of interest to start a Fibromyalgia and CFS Support Group in Manor Lakes and surrounding areas. Connect with real people and share information, experiences, problems and solutions. ■ wyndham.fibrogroup@gmail.com

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

Join the Braybrook Library for a conversation with author Alice Pung, following the release of her latest novel, One Hundred Days. Listen to the conversation with Bruno Lettieri and Pung on Thursday, July 22 at 2pm. ■ https://bit.ly/2SSGScU

Cricket classes for all Treasures of This Land exhibition

U3A AGM

The Westgate diabetes support group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club. The next meeting is on Tuesday, August 3 at 10am. ■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

Conversation with author Alice Pung My Time

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

Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join the community band. Rehearsals are held every Monday evening from 7.30pm at Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newport. ■ Roger Lewis, l hbcityband@gmail.com

Diabetes support group

Keen to hone your cricket skills? Hoppers Indoor Sportz hosts an indoor cricket event for all players to try out their skills. At 13/55 Graham Court, Hoppers Crossing. 4-5.30pm on Monday-Saturday. Cost: $12. ■ info@hhacc.com.au

Free computer workshops Williamstown Community and Education

Altona North combined probus

Centre is running free computer workshops on 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

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.

Deer Park probus 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

Women’s choir 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 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

AL-ANON meets 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

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 13 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

GOING FOR GOLD

11.

12.

13.

14. 15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

11. Refugee Olympic Team 12. 37 (18 for each sex and one mixed) 13. Alcohol 14. Continents of the world (Africa, Europe, the Americas, Asia and Oceania) 15. Ian Thorpe and Leisel Jones 16. Nigeria (1996) and Cameroon (2000) 17. Three (1916, 1940, 1944) 18. Romania 19. Black 20. True

1. The US - four (1904, 1932, 1984, 1996) 2. Melbourne 3. Dunk 4. Tug of war 5. China 6. Greece 7. Barcelona 1992 8. Equestrian 9. Detroit 10. 10

SOLUTIONS

What special team competed at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro games under the IOC code ROT? How many different swimming events will be featured at the upcoming Tokyo Games? The first Olympian to be disqualified for drug use was expelled for taking which substance? What does the Olympic Rings logo signify? Which two Australians have both won nine Olympic medals? Which two African countries won gold medals in the men’s football event at the 1996 and 2000 games? How many Olympic Games have been cancelled? Nadia Comaneci, who was the first gymnast to score a perfect 10, hailed from which country? What colour is the middle circle of the famous Olympic rings? True or false: Australia is one of only five countries to have been in every modern edition of the Olympics?

Q35. Michael Phelps

Q46. Usain Bolt

21. At which Olympic Games were gold medals first awarded? 22. Australia has won a total of 60 gold medals in which sport? 23. In which sport will Caitlin Parker be competing at the Tokyo Olympics? 24. In 1908 and 1912, Australia competed with New Zealand under which name? 25. How old was Betty Cuthbert when she won three gold medals at the 1956 Melbourne games? 26. True or false: cyclist Anna Meares has won at least one medal at the last four Olympic Games? 27. Australia defeated New Zealand to win the gold medal in the women’s rugby sevens event at Rio 2016. Which country won bronze? 28. At which Olympic Games was cricket played, albeit with only two countries represented? 29. What was the nickname of the Australian men’s rowing team that won two gold medals? 30. What kind of wreaths were awarded to winners at the Ancient Olympic Games?

31. Michael Diamond won gold medals in 1996 and 2000 in which event? 32. True or false: Smoky the Scottish terrier was the official mascot of the 1932 Games? 33. Lauren Burns won a gold medal for Australia at Sydney 2000 in which event? 34. The 1908 Games were moved from Rome to London due to the eruption of which volcano? 35. How many gold medals did swimmer Michael Phelps win in his Olympic career? 36. The 1900 Olympic Games coincided with what other major event held in Paris at the same time? 37. Which country has appeared at 29 Olympic Games without winning a medal? 38. What two board-based sports will make their debuts at the upcoming Tokyo Games? 39. Who is the only person to have won both an Olympic medal and an Academy Award? 40. Which member of the British royal family has won an Olympic medal?

41. What was the last Olympics at which the Soviet Union and East Germany competed? 42. Alongside English, what is the other official language of the Olympic Games? 43. What event did Dawn Fraser win a gold medal in at three consecutive Olympics? 44. Who was the first Australian woman to win a gold medal? 45. At what Olympics did the iconic ‘Black Power Salute’, involving Tommie Smith, John Carlos and Peter Norman, take place? 46. How many Olympic gold medals has Usain Bolt won? 47. What age was Swedish shooter Oscar Swahn when he became the oldest Olympian in history at the 1920 Olympics? 48. True or false: the Australian women’s basketball team won five consecutive medals at the 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympics? 49. Jared Tallent won a gold medal at the 2012 London Games in what event? 50. Who lit the Olympic cauldron at the 1996 Atlanta Games?

21. St. Louis 1904 22. Swimming 23. Boxing 24. Australasia 25. 18 26. True 27. Canada 28. Paris 1900 29. Oarsome Foursome 30. Olive wreaths

Which country has hosted the most Olympic Games? 2. What Australian city unsuccessfully bid for the 1996 Olympics? 3. Basketballer Liz Cambage was the first to do what in a women’s Olympics match at the London 2012 Games? 4. What team-based rope game was an Olympic event between 1900 and 1920? 5. Which country did not appear at the Olympics between 1956 and 1980? 6. Which country is always the first to lead out the Olympic opening ceremony parade? 7. Which Olympic Games were the first to allow NBA basketballers to appear? 8. Canadian Ian Miller took part in 10 Olympic Games in which event? 9. Which American city unsuccessfully applied to host the Olympics seven times between 1944 and 1972? 10. How old was Greek gymnast Dimitrios Loundras when he competed at the 1896 Olympic Games? 1.

Q23. Caitlin Parker

31. Trap shooting 32. True 33. Taekwondo 34. Mount Vesuvius 35. 23 36. The World’s Fair, or Paris Exposition 37. Monaco 38. Skateboarding and surfing 39. Kobe Bryant 40. Zara Tindall

Q18. Nadia Comaneci

9-LETTER JUMBLE 17 words: Good 26 words: Very good 35 words: Excellent

E C

I P A

14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

O T

Place each of the tiles of letters into the blank jigsaw below to create four six-letter words going across and down.

UM LU

ANSWER: PODIUM, UMPIRE, PORTAL, ALLURE

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”.

EDGEWORD

SOLUTIONS: COMPETING, cope, coping, epic, gimp, incept, inept, mope, moping, open, opine, optic, opting, pectin, pent, peon, picot, pigeon, pigment, pimento, pine, ping, pint, pinto, pitmen, piton, poem, poet, poetic, point, tempi, tempo, tope, topic, toping

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list?

41. Seoul 1988 42. French 43. 100m freestyle 44. Fanny Durack 45. Mexico City 1968 46. Eight 47. 72 48. False 49. Race walking 50. Muhammad Ali

Q3. Liz Cambage

0-10 Stick to your day job 11-20 Keep training 21-30 Try again in four years 31-40 Bronze medal 41-49 Silver medal 50 Gold medal

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 038

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

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

4 9

9 1

3 6

3 2

DOWN

Alternative to vinyl records (3) Supplier of goods to retailers (11) 19th-century art movement (7) Particulars (7) Contend (8) Mercury (6) Unhinged (3) Restored (11) Peculiarity (11) Pouch (3) African country (6) Prank (8) Mountaineer (7) Products of a calculator (7) Recommendations (11) Finish (3)

3 9 10 11 12 14 15 17 19 20 21 24 25 26 27

Christian holiday (9) Traumatised (7) Performing (5) Made easy (10) Cycle (4) Power cells (9) Win (7) Hazards (5) City in North Carolina, US (10) 15 Sustainable (energy) (9) 16 Fell; lessened (9) 18 Moving (on wheels) (7) 19 Act of Parliament (7) 20 Snot (5) 22 Cars (5) 23 Naughty child (4) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 13

DECODER

No. 038

9 5

6 7

4 2

2 3

5 3 2

ACROSS 1

No. 038

3 1

QUICK CROSSWORD

6 7

5 8

hard

5 9

10 11 12 13

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

F W 25

4 LETTERS ALTO ARTS BETS CHIC DABS DYES ESKY GATE LADE ONTO PAYS SENT SKIT TALC

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

Today’s Aim: 21 words: Good 31 words: Very good 42 words: Excellent

E B

No. 038

5 LETTERS ABIDE ALONE ARENA ARENT ATONE BEEFY BERET BRUTE CHIEF CLEAT CRAVE CRUDE DATUM DEEDS DELVE DRAMA DREAD ENEMY ENSUE ESSAY

EVENT EXPEL GASES HERBS LADED LEDGE LENDS LUCID MAYBE NURSE OBEYS ORDER PASTA PETER PIXIE RAISE REACH REEDS RISES SCRAM SEEDY

SEEMS SORRY SUPER TABOO TEASE TENSE TERSE TOTEM URINE 6 LETTERS ARABLE ERECTS MEAGRE RESORT

7 LETTERS ATTRACT BANDIER COLLECT SWEETEN TEETHES TWISTER 8 LETTERS INVENTOR RETRIEVE ROPEABLE UNFAIRER

abet, able, albeit, bale, bate, beat, beau, BEAUTIFUL, befit, belt, beta, bile, bite, bleat, blue, etui, fable, fate, fauteuil, feat, felt, file, filet, flea, flue, flute, futile, late, leaf, left, lief, lieu, life, lite, lute, table, tale, teal, tile, tube, tubule, utile

2 3 8 1 7 9 4 6 5

2 6 8 4 1 5 7 9 3

4 9 5 3 6 7 8 1 2

7 1 3 8 9 2 6 5 4

8 3 2 1 4 6 9 7 5

9 7 6 5 2 3 1 4 8

1 5 4 9 7 8 2 3 6

5 8 7 6 3 1 4 2 9

3 4 1 2 8 9 5 6 7

6 2 9 7 5 4 3 8 1

4 6 9 5 3 8 2 7 1

5 7 1 2 4 6 8 3 9

6 2 3 7 1 4 9 5 8

8 5 4 6 9 3 7 1 2

9 1 7 8 5 2 3 4 6

3 9 6 4 8 5 1 2 7

1 4 5 9 2 7 6 8 3

7 8 2 3 6 1 5 9 4

9 1 5 2 3 6 7 8 4

2 7 4 1 8 9 6 5 3

3 6 8 7 5 4 1 9 2

4 8 3 9 1 7 2 6 5

1 5 7 8 6 2 3 4 9

6 9 2 5 4 3 8 7 1

8 4 1 6 2 5 9 3 7

7 3 6 4 9 1 5 2 8

5 2 9 3 7 8 4 1 6

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

hard

medium

easy

8 6

9 1

9 6 8 5

8 7

3 2 6 4 7

3 LETTERS ALE ANT ARE AXE BRA DAB EAR END EVE FBI GAS GEE HER MAD OFF OWE PAN RAN ROE RUE RUM TAX UTE WET

C U Z S V T L A Y NX I O

4 1

D EMP J QG K R H B FW

9 2

WORDFIT

23-07-21

DUNLOP AUTO SERVICE CENTRE 161 High Street Melton

WE ARE STILL TRADING AS NORMAL We are also following the Government advice for social distancing and sanitising. •฀All฀Mechanical฀Repairs฀ •฀Log฀book฀servicing •฀Car/Small฀Truck/4WD฀ •฀Car฀&฀4WD฀Suspension฀&฀ Alignments

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9746 0088

www.dunlopmelton.com.au 12446748-SN16-20

15 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services

Place your ad in print and online www.networkclassifieds.com.au V Trades Business Profile

V Concrete Products & Services

฀

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V Bathroom & Kitchens

froggys.com.au

12420493-CG25-19

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D & R CONCRETING

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

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www.topedgekitchens.com.au

Employment

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084 469 or 9747 1999

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12412038-FA09-10

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13 Reddrop St, Bacchus Marsh PH: 5367 1141 AH: 0418 301 841 www.rosscoengineering.com.au

V Fencing & Gates

FARM FENCING

section of Network Classifieds.

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

12441118-CG07-20

V Bricklayers

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

12418345-SN21-19

V Automotive

AK BRICKLAYING

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Residential - Commercial - Industrial

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

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NATHAN FENECH CONCRETING

TRADES & SERVICES

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS

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MEL FENCING

Contact Adam 0422 250 675

Colorbond, Tubular & Timber Fencing & Gates

V Builders & Building Services

Ph Sergio 0431 649 907

froggys.com.au

Lou’s Colorbond Fencing Gates & Pergolas ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ Lou 0412 339 445 Tony 0431 339 739

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

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12416765-SN19-19

We accept payment by:

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12402111-RA43-18

Grow your business with

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8348 5441

VM CONCRETING

12402755-RA44-18

Online: networkclassiﬁeds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassiﬁeds.com.au

Deadline for all classiﬁcations is 1:30pm Monday.

All Types Of Concreting

12422200-LB29-19

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G6055734AA-dc28M

V Deadline

V Carpenters

Yates and Son Fencing and Decking

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

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

Call Phil 0433 880 368 G6657959

Phone 0401 005 760 12499953-AV25-21

G6638978

V Furniture Removals

V Carpet Cleaning *conditions apply

FLETCHERS

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

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

Call Paul 0412

816 479

Competetive prices - time starts at your door. Will beat any reasonable quote. 12501960-LB28-21

Ph: 0413 693 216 | 0422 437 935

Place Your Classified Ads Online Your advert will appear in print and online! 16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

12401756-CG42-18

3 ROOMS FOR $90

12476756-SN03-21

Carpet Steam Cleaning

General Classifieds

HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS

V Garden Services

AMAZING GARDEN SERVICES Specialist in • Lawn mowing • Edging Pruning / Hedge Trimming • Regular Maintenance • Rubbish Removals • Tree Lopping • Gutter Cleaning

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ Call Daniel 0417 059 190

12469374-CG46-20

฀

Imagine yourself in Bali

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Angels Oriental Massage

฀ ฀ ฀

฀

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

฀ ฀ ฀ OTHER RELATED TRADES AVAILABLE

V Pets & Services

฀ ฀

JAD HEATING AND COOLING ฀

฀

฀ ฀

฀

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

General Notices V Public Notices and Event

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

Call 0430 332 368

G6425413AA-dc5Nov

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

V Reblocking/Underpinning MEMBER OF MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

NICK’S RE-BLOCKING SERVICE

ALL SUBURBS ★ RAISING ★ LEVELLING ★ UNDERPINNING ★ RESTUMPING WITH CONCRETE OR REDGUM STUMPS ★ COUNCIL PERMIT ★ ALL WORK GUARANTEED FREE SMOKE ALARM

PH: 9360 5357 Mobile: 0412 378 193 Registered Building Practitioner

G6795050AA-dc29Apr 1132314-LB19-14

12504374-BL30-21

0417 383 510 SERVING ALL MELBOURNE FOR OVER 25 YEARS

RESTUMPING UNDERPINNING

FLOOR LEVELLING BUILDING PERMITS

www.mannies.com.au | info@mannies.com.au

12497987-LB23-21

15 YEARS GUARANTEED WORKMANSHIP

Reblocking and Underpinning

General Classifieds

G6519072AA-dc21Jan

STAR

Massages In/Outcall at Caroline Springs 7 Days - 9am till late

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

12504246-AV29-21

TOP LOMILOMI

Please call or text Jenny on 0478 624 944 SWA10853XE

Contact Simon:

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

General Classifieds

9309 0700 - 0411 174 000

NEW STAFF? 12400545-LB38-19

��

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

Rainbow Dolls 1235322622-PB22-17

David: 0425 811 882 Ash: 0403 619 333

� Free Quote � All Suburbs � Insurance � Elevation

Family owned and operated business in Sunshine West, servicing the electrical industry. Require very reliable, honest storeperson for a dynamic and varied role. Absolute job security. Allrounder role, diverse tasks and opportunity for development. Supportive leadership structure, fantastic team vibe. Contact: Tom Kinsman 9312 6633 www.gvk.com.au

NEED

DB-L-29449

G6638324AA-dc18Feb

177646

Warehouse Allrounder

V Adult Services

ABN 40 640 572 030

Tel: 9309 2351

V Positions Vacant

REBLOCKING & UNDERPINNING 977914

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

gszatbooks@yahoo.com.au

9am-3pm Monday-Friday 9338 6644

Swissport has been committed to delivering safe and high-quality services in Australia since 1992. If you want to be part of Swissport’s growth in Australia and take part in the nation’s recovery from COVID, as our border restrictions are removed and the industry ramps up, there has never been a better time to join the Swissport team.

V Professional

Apply now: Phone 0411 161 563

Phone only between

We are looking for people from a range of backgrounds, particularly people with experience in operating vehicles and supervising teams and offering accelerated advancement opportunities for people with the aptitude and the drive to fast-track their career in aviation.

www.swissport.com.au/work-with-us/

BARBER & HAIRDRESSER

Required to work full time in a cheese factory from 2.00am till 10.00am. Fast paced environment. Some heavy lifting involved. Must be reliable, enthusiastic, able to work unsupervised, and keen to work. EARLY MORNING START

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APPLY NOW!

section of Network Classifieds.

Award-winning boutique hairdressing salon is seeking an experienced Barber and also an experienced Hairdresser with skills in all areas of hairdressing to join our outstanding team in Gisborne with immediate start.

PROCESS WORKER

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If this sounds like you, and you’re looking for a new challenge, rewarding new career, lots of training and development opportunities, then don’t miss out

Trades & Services

2 POSITIONS

V Positions Vacant

AIRLINE BAGGAGE HANDLING AGENTS

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Find it in the

V Positions Vacant

340739 Rockbank North 2: 1646-1656 Melton Highway, Plumpton Vic 3335 (RFNSA 3335012) 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new equipment and associated works, including 5G, as follows: r Installation of three (3) panel antennas, 2.7m long, on a new headframe r Installation of three (3) panel antennas, 0.8m long, on the new headframe r Installation of ancillary equipment including fifteen (15) remote radio units, antenna mounts and cabling r Installation of one (1) prefabricated equipment shelter at ground level 2. Vodafone regards the proposed installations as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”), based on the description above 3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Should you require further information or wish to comment, please contact Andrew McLane at Axicom, 02 9495 9000, community@axicom.com.au or Level 1, 110 Pacific Highway, St Leonards NSW 2065 by Wednesday 4 August 2021. Further information may also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3335012.

V Adult Services

ALL AROUND

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

Employment

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT PLUMPTON INCLUDING 5G

V Locksmiths

Reg No 8659

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

12423634-SN31-19

฀

12327446-LN42-16

Melton Tree & Stump Removals

12444058-SN11-20

฀

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V Tuition

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

V Tree Lopping/Surgery

REPAIR, SUPPLY AND INSTALLATIONS

฀

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING

฀

฀ ฀

฀

V Heating

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

12502926-NG28-21

฀

12362816-ACM35-17

฀

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

V Massage Therapists

12502709-SN28-21

12442482-NG10-20

D.B. HANDYMAN

฀ ฀

V Positions Vacant

V Tiling

V Handy Persons

฀

DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS

0409 888 228

Call Joe 0498 375 094 - 7 days

฀ ฀ ฀

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

SAME DAY SERVICE

0412 184 772

V Massage Therapists

12477089-JW03-21

ANTENNA MAN

12398667-SN37-18

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

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V Clairvoyant /Psychic

V Television/Video/Audio

12478242-CG03-21

V Garage/Garage Doors

Employment

Get 10% Discount Use code: EMPDISC

Fill your position online ZZZ QHWZRUNFODVVL´HGV FRP DX

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

Celebrations section of Network Classifieds.

Motoring V Wanted To Buy

V Wrecking

CARS wanted. Cash Paid. Buying all years and models. Call 0455 776 443 Lmct 11618 V Wrecking

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

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

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Trades & Services

LMCT 10268W

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

0422 108 512 Also Towing Service Available 12493026-AV19-21

LMCT 10268W

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0435 904 818 Find it in the

Real Estate

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V Garage Sales

CALL:

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12400498-CG38-18

Advertise with us and get PLACE YOUR better results ฀

Find local work in the

Employment

LATIN ROOF RESTORATION

C1093409-JO39-13

V Roofing

section of Network Classiﬁeds.

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

$BMM (FPSHF PS 4FC

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networkclassifieds.com.au 17 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

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Cannon has sights on big guns By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring The Great Wall ute, in more than a decade Down Under, has taken more twists and turns; ups and downs than its eponymous iconic 600-year-old piece of Chinese infrastructure. The Great Wall Motors dual cab 4x4 ute initially made a name for itself with a sub-30 grand drive-away price. The later model, named the Steed, continued the trend, just, at $29,990. Both suffered suspect safety standards, with the latter drawing criticism from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program chief executive officer, James Goodwin, who said: “While the Steed is equipped with six airbags and electronic stability control, features which were not offered on the previous model, there has been little change to the vehicle’s structure to improve the safety of the passenger cabin.” It earned a lowly two-star rating. Now, we are told, it’s newly designed and engineered from the ground up, the latest GWM ute has its sights set on the pickup truck leaders by claiming to meet world-class standards, courtesy of the company’s advanced R&D centre by a team of highly skilled designers and engineers. Now known as the Cannon, the line-up consists of three 4x4 dual cab models, all powered by an upgraded 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine driving through a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. Firing the first shot, so to speak, is the GWM Cannon, selling for $33,990 driveaway, with a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty and five years roadside assist. This is followed by the Cannon-L, at $37,990 driveaway, while rounding out the range is the Cannon-X, priced from $40,990 driveaway. On test was the mid-range ‘L’ model.

Styling In size alone, the GWM Dual Cab Cannon-L stands tall in any company. Owing more to the big American truck than the usual pickup suspects such as HiLux, Ranger, Triton, Navara and BT-50, to say the least, it is big and bold. Dominating the front is a three-bar chrome radiator grille with dinner-plate size stylised letter ‘P’ in the centre. This, we are told, is a reference to ‘Poer’, the vehicle’s Chinese name. Body coloured bumpers, wheel arches and power adjustable exterior mirrors, plus standard side steps, polished sports bar, a shark fin antenna and spiffy sports-style 18-inch alloy wheels (with full-size spare), not to mention LED headlamps, daytime running lights and fog lamps with automatic steering function, put the Cannon-L squarely up against its more expensive rivals. In looks alone the new GWM Cannon-L stands side by side with its much more expensive rivals. (Pictures: Supplied)

Interior Modern convenience commences outside the vehicle with keyless entry; then there’s push-button start and a leather covered steering wheel with a selection of controls, including gearshift paddles. Occupants settle into Comfort-Tek eco leather seats; front positions heated, with the driver’s seat six-way power adjustable. The automatic climate control incorporates rear vents, so everyone’s happy. Seats offer a more-than average level of comfort and the rear seat base folds up to increase load space and underneath storage out of sight.

Infotainment A central dashboard 9-inch LCD touchscreen offers access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while a 3.5-inch colour instrument cluster keeps the driver in touch with vehicle systems. There’s a power point for a dash camera, a 12-volt outlet, two front USB ports and one at the rear.

Engines / transmissions Improvements to the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine of the Steed (120 kW / 400 Nm, from 110kW / 310 Nm) also include improved fuel efficiency, while new additions include a variable geometry and turbo inlet, plus 18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 July, 2021

upgraded air intake throttle and camshaft. An eight-speed German-designed ZF automatic transmission is augmented by a 4x4 drivetrain with torque on demand and rear differential lock.

AT A GLANCE

Safety

GWM Cannon-X 4x4: $40,990

GWM has obviously learned its lesson from its stumbling Steed safety rating. The Cannon carries an extensive suite of safety measures, including forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection. In the case of collision automatic door unlock and fuel cut functions are activated. There’s vehicle stability control, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, lane change assist and rear cross traffic alert. Reverse and passenger kerb-side cameras, front and rear parking sensors and 360-degree all-round view warn of obstacles when parking. There are seven airbags including one between the two fronts. Traffic sign recognition and over-speed alert keep the driver honest and hill-start assist and hill-descent control take over on inclines and off-road adventures.

Driving A trap for the unwary. On many vehicles there

MODEL RANGE GWM Cannon 4x4: $33,990 GWM Cannon-L 4x4: $37,990

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

is a grab handle on the driver and passenger door pillars to help climbing into the cabin or to steady occupants in rough going. For some strange reason the Cannon carries a sunglasses’ holder on the driver’s side above the door, not atop the centre of the windscreen at its usual spot. How many mistaken tugs it would last is anybody’s guess. While engine performance has been boosted, far from firing off the mark, the Cannon-L huffs and puffs away from rest, which I suppose is only natural with such a small engine trying to shift close to five tonnes when there’s a load on board. The eight-speed auto transmission does its best. It’s more comfortable at cruising speeds. Steering raises some questions: stiff and resistant at slow speeds, shifting to fast and

loose with little driver feedback as the vehicle hits its straps. With a turning circle of more than 13 metres, the truck throws up some parking problems. Fortunately, functionality is to the fore when it comes to the rear of the Cannon-L. The tub has a protective sprayed-on lining and loading from the back is made easier by a retractable step allowing access to the front of the tray. On the downside, the distance between the wheel arches is not enough to take a standard-size Aussie pallet. Towing is rated at 3000 kg braked, but read the small print. With front double wishbone and rear leaf spring suspension, it is fair to assume that some of the bumps suffered by the unladen one-tonner on uneven road surfaces would be ironed out by loading up the tray, while on the downside a claimed combined urban / highway fuel consumption of 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres could be added to considerably under the same circumstances.

Summary With price tag alone ($37,990 driveaway) the only consideration, the GWM Cannon-L could be an attractive proposition. However, questions remain over build quality, reliability and resale value of the would-be premium pickup.

SPORT Lockdown halts competitions By Benjamin Millar The state-wide snap lockdown sparked by the latest COVID-19 breakout has forced the immediate cancellation of all weekend community sport. Restrictions triggered a pause on all Ballarat Football Netball League competitions until health advice and government policy allows for a return to fields and courts. Lockdown came into effect on the eve of round 11 of the senior competitions, which was due to be played on Saturday. It would have marked the round all clubs had played each

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look forward to positive news … that will see a return to play - Tagline

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other once – the first milestone required by the league for the integrity of the 2021 premiership. The senior competition will therefore resume with a delayed round 11 to meet this key requirement of the 2021 season. A league spokesman said the fixture for the balance of the remaining home and away season

will depend upon the length of the lockdown and the start-up timeframe for a return to play. “All options for the remainder of the season, including finals, will be considered as the situation evolves and becomes clear,” the spokesperson said. “The league, through our member clubs, supports the measures that have been introduced to address the health concerns COVID is having within our community and look forward to positive news … that will see a return to play as soon as possible.” The women’s competitions will have the round of matches that were missed removed

Velden’s milestone game delayed Stranded on 299 games by the latest snap lockdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Bacchus Marsh defender Daniel Velden is philosophical about the delayed milestone. Not only will the rescheduled round 11 clash at Maddingley Park against the in-form Melton, that was meant to have been played on Saturday, be a personal celebration of his 300th senior game for the Cobras, it will be a sign that the state is back on track after the latest scare. “In the end it’s all about perspective,” he said. “Footy is an absolute joy, but there’s a lot more important things in life and a lot more people doing it tough. “If we do have that opportunity to get back out there it means we’re probably doing okay again.” Velden grew up in Bacchus Marsh and will soon be moving back to his hometown after a decade living in nearby Eynesbury. A keen basketballer in his teens, he first strapped on the footy boots at the urging of some mates when he was about 16. Velden hit the under-18s and then the seniors team around 2002 and 20 years later shows no signs of giving up the game that has delivered so much reward. “It’s just been the club, it’s a pretty amazing place to be – I’ve had plenty of opportunities to move elsewhere but this is where I want to be,” he said. “They brought me up, they turned me into the person I am today, along with my family and friends, and that’s why I’m still out there playing at 36.” The Cobras stalwart said the 300-game milestone has been a long time coming, particularly given the fallow early years of his involvement with the club. “In the early days we weren’t very successful so without the finals the seasons were only 14 or 15 games,” he said. “I think I played 241 games before I played a final, it was getting to the point I was wondering if it was ever going to happen.” With plenty of hard work and persistence those fortunes finally turned, leading Bacchus Marsh to a coveted premiership in 2016 – the same year the Western Bulldogs ended their long drought. “It was just an amazing time,” Velden said. “That’s the ultimate goal, every team wants to win one but only one can. We ended up winning it with about five recruits and the rest were locals that came through the juniors, so we were just ready for it.” Bacchus Marsh remain poised within striking distance of another finals appearance in 2021, giving Velden hope that another Cobras flag could still be in reach. “The competition at this stage is super open,” he said. “Every year you’ve got to time your run towards the finals and try to remain uninjured, being so close this year is the next level of that.”

from the fixture with no results recorded. The junior competition will likewise see the round of matches across football and netball removed from the fixture with no results recorded and the round abandoned. An Auskick spokesman said the health and safety of the community remains the highest priority and AFL Victoria will continue to be guided by government and health authorities. “We will provide updates with any new information regarding restrictions and protocols for Auskick and community football, when available,” the spokesperson said.

Falcons still flying high City West Falcons came out switched on and ready to go in their Victorian Netball League championship clash with North East Blaze. Playing in the first round since the competition split into two pools, the Falcons put in one of their best performances of the season on Wednesday night in the 80-60 win. Falcons coach Marg Lind said the final result and margin was a bit of a surprise. Lind has worked with many of the Blaze players and was wary of the talented young players they have. “We were pretty much on fire,” she said. “We had good flow and speed and we were looking physically strong and in good shape. “Last time they played us they had a bit more speed, they lacked that this time round. “The question is whether we can now continue that momentum.” Lind said they had some really good performances across the court. She said Montana Holmes continued to impress in the midcourt. “Montana has brought a really good vibe to the side and a really positive addition to the side,” Lind said. “When you get a new player in it can swing the vibe one way or the other. She has really swung the vibe in the right direction.” Lind said the three goalers did well, with an ill Maddy Gray switching in goal attack with Tee Salanoa. She said Jane Cook showed some real good leadership in the circle with her voice and work with the other two goalers. Maggie Lind also had a good game, coming off playing with Collingwood in the Super Netball competition at the weekend. Maggie Lind, in her second game for the Magpies, started at wing attack, in the absence of Kelsey Browne. For Marg Lind, it meant seeing a combination she is very familiar with – her daughter and Molly Jovic in the midcourt together. “It was really good,” she said. “They both came through the under-11s at Altona Netball Association and went all the way through. “It shows the kids what they can achieve.” Tara Murray

Bacchus Marsh defender Daniel Velden is about to chalk up 300 games for the senior side.

Benjamin Millar

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Exp: 10/08/21.