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Artists face battle together

(Damjan Janevski) 249564_05

Victorian artists like Bacchus Marsh visual artist Anuradha Patel are reeling from the impact of the long lockdowns forced by the COVID-19 pandemic, but they are immersing themselves in their work to help cope with the impact and isolation. They are also banding together in a bid to share their journey through difficult times with others facing a similar plight. Full story: Page 5

ANURADHA PATEL IS A LOCAL ARTIST TAKING PART IN A FREE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM FOR ARTISTS AND CREATIVES CALLED ARTSACTION.

Melton hit hard by COVID By Benjamin Millar The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound social and economic impact on people living in Melton, according to a new report. The City of Melton ‘COVID-19 Social and Economic Impacts Report’, tabled at last week’s council meeting, paints a picture of a community hit hard by a range of health, social, financial and other impacts during the period since the pandemic took hold in Victoria. The report was prepared by community planning manager Elyse Rider following a request made in May by councillor Ashleigh Vandenberg.

It identified “significant and widespread” concerns resulting from the COVID-19 impact across Melton, with the hardship experienced locally more deeply felt in some areas than in Greater Melbourne, such as a rise in unemployment rates to 11.1 per cent and a 40 per cent spike in family violence rates. “Existing social inequalities have been compounded by the pandemic and associated social distancing restrictions, resulting in impacts being experienced disproportionately by certain cohorts of the community,” according to the report. Cr Vandenberg said it was important for

the council to do what it can to help. “COVID-19 has had such an impact on our community and we need to work together in its recovery process.” The report noted more than 400 calls had been made to the COVID-19 hotline and that local community services were “inundated with calls” seeking support. “Experts predict that the full impact of COVID-19 won’t be evident for a further three to four years due to the ongoing nature of financial hardship in growth areas.” Community Connector Hubs also supported more than 5600 residents between May and August last year.

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As well as outlining the impacts of the pandemic, the report used the findings to develop a “recovery and resilience” framework to guide the council’s response to immediate acute need. “Local services, community groups, settings and community members have shown significant strength and resilience throughout these challenging times,” the report stated. “Council is well placed to partner with state and federal governments to bring together the local community and local service sector, to deliver a collaborative recovery effort and move forward together to become a resilient community in the face of future challenges.”

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Council rates under spotlight By Benjamin Millar Moorabool council’s process for collecting property rates and other revenue will be under the spotlight with an independent review planned to investigate the process. Councillors last week approved an independent review into its Revenue and Rating Plan for 2021-22 to help guide the formation of a new strategy to be in place by next July. The Revenue and Rating Plan, required under the Local Government Act 2020, must

outline how the council will collect and distribute rates and other revenue. Chief executive Derek Madden said the review will inform the strategy for the rating year 2022-23 and beyond. “The community will have an opportunity to have input into the review and we are actively encouraging our community to have their say,” he said. “There will be a number of ways the community can do this, including taking part in a range of forums in December 2021 and February 2022.”

Consultation will include online surveys and listening posts as well drop in sessions and written submissions. Feedback will be presented to councillors next March and incorporated in the 2022-23 Budget Process. The review follows the council’s submission to the state government’s own review of rates. The council highlighted changes it would like to see to the rating system, including a review of the impact on farming rates in peri-urban areas of land speculation driving up the value of land beyond its primary use of

farming. It also wants the state government to consider removing the “four times rule” under which the highest differential rate between residential, commercial and farming property can be no more than four times the lowest. Moorabool council has asked for the removal of concessional rating of windfarms and electricity generators and advocating for the increase in the broad municipal charge to help councils provide a lower level of rate volatility under annual valuations.

COVID worsens

Werribee’s Noyan, 3, drives himself to theatre.

(Penny Stephens/Western Health)

Driving away the hospital nerves A mini ambulance is calming the nerves of some of Western Health’s littlest patients before surgery. Young children who are set for surgery at the Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital are driving themselves to the operating theatre in a remote-controlled car in a bid to make surgery less scary. The ambulance, which features lights and sirens and a walkie talkie, was donated to

the hospital by Werribee’s Smile and Ride Australia. Nurse unit manager Simone Cooley said children ride in the car on the last leg of the journey from the holding bay to the operating theatre. “They are often cold, hungry and scared and parents are also quite stressed,” she said. “It is a great distraction for all. “Staff often line the corridor and even

though children feel like they are driving the car, more often than not, it is one of our staff members using the remote control to move them safely to theatre.” Research shows that riding in a toy car can reduce preoperative anxiety in preschool children undergoing surgery, Western Health said.

Fourteen new positive COVID-19 cases were detected in Melton on Sunday, bringing to 60 the number of active cases in the area in the latest breakout. More than a dozen exposure sites remain listed in the Melton area including Coles, Woolworths and Baker’s Delight at Woodgrove Shopping Centre, the Melton VicRoads Customer Service Centre, Bunnings, the Amcal Pharmacy and PETStock. Victoria had 1619 active cases on Monday after recording 246 new local cases, with 26,955 vaccine doses administered and 42,258 test results received on Sunday. Half of all cases are in Melbourne’s northern suburbs and one third are in the west – the two regions hardest hit by the second wave outbreak in 2020. Of the 246 new local cases, about half remain under investigation. Health Minister Martin Foley said the age breakdown points to this being “a pandemic of the unvaccinated”, with 87 per cent of the cases under 50. “This current outbreak is targeting the unvaccinated because that’s where the virus will go,” he said. “The best way to protect ourselves, our families and our community, and to get to the other side of this is to get vaccinated.” Mr Foley said with first dose vaccinations passing the 60 per cent mark for over-16s, Melbourne is still tracking towards a slight easing of restrictions around September 23. “The sooner we get to 70 per cent first dose vaccines, the sooner we bring forward measures to relax restrictions,” he said. Regional Victoria, including Moorabool which has one current active case, should have some easing of restrictions sooner, but the details and timing remain to be confirmed.

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Crackdown on serious crime By Tara Murray Nearly 50 people were arrested across Brimbank, Wyndham and Melton as part of a police operation targeting serious and violent criminal offending in the western suburbs. Uniformed and specialist police, detectives from Brimbank and Melton, Brimbank offender management team and the gang crime squad officers hit the streets late last month as part of Operation Alliance. Polcie patrolled known high volume crime areas and conducted compliance checks. The operation was the result of a number of

aggravated burglaries committed at homes in the Wyndham area. Police arrested 11 young people and seven individuals with affiliations to youth gangs during the five-day operation. Between August 24 and August 28, police arrested and charged 46 people for a range of offences, including breach of bail, attempted robbery, aggravated burglaries and weapons offences. Twelve of those people were remanded to appear in court at a later day. As part of the operation there were 17 search warrants executed across suburbs including

Werribee and Burnside. There were 70 bail compliance checks, with 18 breaches detected. Police intercepted and checked 237 vehicles, impounding six, while 39 fines were issued for breaches of chief health officer directions. Among those arrested was a 21-year-old man from Deer Park who allegedly contravened a bail condition. A 23-year-old man from Brookfield was observed allegedly robbing a victim of their bicycle and other personal belongings. He was charged with attempted robbery. A 34-year-old Burnside man and a

31-year-old Werribee man were both charged in relation to a range of offences, including theft of motor vehicle and aggravated burglary after warrants were executed. During the last four nights of the operation, there was no reported serious and violent non-family violence related crimes or car thefts across Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Wyndham, Brimbank and Melton. North West Metro Division three Brimbank and Melton Superintendent David Jones said police will continue to monitor persons of interest.

Schools urged to go solar

Anuradha Patel is a taking part in a free professional development program for artists and creatives called ArtsACTION.

(Damjan Janevski) 249564_01

Artists band together in tough times Artists reeling from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic are banding together in a bid to share their journey through difficult times. Bacchus Marsh visual artist Anuradha Patel was in the middle of an artist residency at a local school when the latest lockdowns hit, forcing students into extended remote learning for the second year in a row. “It has been a very difficult time,” she said. “I’m based in a school in Truganina, but because of the situation with COVID we have had very little time together, so it’s been quite a frustrating process.” Patel began her life in India before moving with her family to Africa and then England,

before relocating to the Moorabool region about 15 years ago. As well as her own personal projects, she has spent much of her artistic career working in education and directly with communities. “I enjoy working in the community in different contexts, especially working with children who may want to take on the arts,” she said. “The school at Truganina is very diverse and new, so there are a lot of new communities finding their feet, lots of different languages and cultural experiences – so it’s sort of partly my own journey as well.” Extended periods of lockdown have made it increasingly difficult to work with others, but Patel has turned to her art to help make sense of

the situation and cope with the impacts. “My work has been my strength in a way, it’s my thing I’ve held on to – it’s seen me through many ups and downs,” she said. “The practice has helped me to stay focused and deal with the long periods of isolation and the unknowns. I’m making journals, so it’s not great big artworks, it’s day to day experiences, it also addresses some of the emotional upheavals going on everywhere, the situation everyone is in, so I think a lot of my work is subconsciously exploring that.” Patel has also joined the ArtsACTION program, supported by Moorabool and Melton councils and facilitated by Pop Up Art, a division of not-for-profit Jumpleads.

The state government is rolling out solar panels at government schools, helping them to cut electricity costs while become greener and more environmentally sustainable. Melton and Moorabool schools are being urged to go apply for the Greener Government School Buildings program, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions at schools and to upgrade school facilities to become more energy efficient and sustainable. Announcing that applications are now open for schools to apply for funding to install solar power systems, Melton MP Steve McGhie said the systems are a strategic investment that can pay for itself over several years. “We are excited that the schools in the Melton electorate can apply to be part of this innovative program that reduces Victoria’s carbon footprint,” he said. The Greener Government School Buildings program will remove the upfront costs of installing a system that may otherwise discourage schools from pursuing this option. It follows the success of a pilot program rolled out across 42 schools in 2019 which generates more than 1200 megawatts of electricity per year, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by more than 1300 tonnes and saving schools more than $270,000 in electricity bills. Education Minister James Merlino said the state government is taking action to make Victoria’s schools more sustainable and more energy efficient so we can all do our bit for the environment. “Not only will the environment benefit from this program – installing solar panel systems will help reduce power bills for our schools,” he said. Schools can apply for a solar panel system at www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov. au. Applications close on Friday, October 8.

Diggers Rest woman arrested over man’s disappearance A Diggers Rest woman and six men have been arrested over the suspicious disappearance of Adelaide man Kerry Giakoumis. Taskforce detectives arrested the six men and 46-year-old woman in a series of raids across Melbourne’s north and west on Thursday morning. Warrants were also executed in conjunction with the arrests at residential properties in Keilor Downs, Mernda, West Melbourne, St Albans, Laverton and Diggers Rest. Police arrested a 44-year-old Keilor Downs man, a 21-year-old West Melbourne man, a 23-year-old Mernda man, a 22-year-old St Albans man, a 26-year-old St Albans man, a

25-year-old Laverton man and the 46-year-old Diggers Rest woman. Earlier this week, police executed a warrant at the Hells Angels club house on Lipton Drive in Thomastown. No one was arrested, however a number of items including weight benches were seized and are still being forensically examined. Police have been searching the Jacksons Creek area in Diggers Rest over recent weeks in an effort to locate Mr Giakoumis’s remains. The 29-year-old was last seen at the Hells Angels club house in the early hours of June 10 last year. A taskforce established to investigate Kerry’s disappearance and suspected murder

includes officers from the Homicide Squad, Echo Taskforce and Missing Persons Squad. Crime Command Detective Superintendent Paul O’Halloran said detectives would also like to hear from anyone who noticed any suspicious activity in the Jackson’s Creek area around the time Kerry went missing. “Today’s arrests are as a result of a significant operation over the past 15 months involving police from specialist units working together as part of the investigation taskforce,” he said. “The Hells Angels is a group well known for significant violent offending and on this occasion, it’s left a family without their beloved son and no answers as to why.”

Detective Superintendent O’Halloran said that every avenue of inquiry in relation to the disappearance will be followed up by investigators. “We’ve said previously that investigators are of the strong belief that Kerry has met with foul play and every piece of information we have just supports this,” he said. “I can assure those responsible that taskforce investigators will be unrelenting in their efforts to hold those responsible to account. There will be people out there who have information about what happened to Kerry and who is responsible, and again I am appealing for those people to come forward and speak to police.”

Tuesday, 7 September, 2021 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 5

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Senator enters power tussle By Benjamin Millar A federal government senator has joined the growing chorus of calls for the Western Victoria Transmission Network Project to be sent back to the drawing board. Victorian Senator Sarah Henderson said running high voltage powerline project across “some of the best farming land in Australia” shows “utter contempt” for farmers and regional communities. The Western Victorian Transmission Line Project is being planned by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AMEO) and built by AusNet, to bring renewable energy from the state’s west to Melbourne.

‘‘

the productivity of farming land will fall dramatically

’’

- Sarah Henderson

The project has met with firm resistance from the community and been blasted by Moorabool council, with calls for the lines to be buried underground or rerouted. Ms Henderson said the project will severely impact on agriculture and must be rerouted and redesigned. “Farmers won’t be able to use drones or

helicopters for spraying, spray gun irrigation will be heavily limited and the productivity of farming land will fall dramatically,” she said. “Apart from threatening some of Victoria’s best farmland and tourism ventures such as local wineries, the proposed route, which runs south of the Lerderderg State Park, also poses a fire risk given its proximity to areas of high bushfire risk.” Star Weekly recently reported that federal Ballarat MP Catherine King – the opposition spokeswoman for infrastructure, transport and regional development – has also demanded project proponents go back to the drawing board to avoid impacting communities and farming land along the 190-kilometre route

from western Victoria through Mooraboool and on to Sydenham. State Buninyong MP Michaela Settle also recently called for the proposal to be scrapped in its current form, writing to AEMO to ask for all other options to be investigated including undergrounding and alternative routes. The Environment Effects Statement (EES) for the project remains in its early stages of preparation, with environmental investigations under way. AusNet is seeking to access properties within the identified corridor to conduct surveys and understand how properties are currently being used.

Views sought on carpark upgrade

The colourful bee hives being rolled out in Woodlea.

(Pictures: Supplied)

Woodlea is all abuzz over bee hives Woodlea is buzzing with excitement that it will soon be home to thousands of European honey bees. As part of its ambition to become the country’s healthiest community, Woodlea has partnered with apiarist and Ben’s Bees founder Ben Moore to install and manage five onsite beehives, which will be located near the Kororoit Creek. Mr Moore said as pollinators, bees are extremely important for the functioning of entire ecosystems. “European honey bees are more than just honey, they contribute to the massive amount of pollination humans require – one in every three mouthfuls of food we eat has been

pollinated by honey bees,” he said. “There is almost a symbiosis between bees and flowers as they each resonate a frequency; this means the flowers will be bigger and brighter and if fruit or vegetable bearing, the fruit will be bigger and more bountiful.” One of the main providers of bee hives within Australia, Mr Moore said the community apiary at Woodlea is said to be the first of its kind in a residential space. Woodlea project director Matthew Dean said the community apiary will provide an opportunity to create awareness and education around the importance of bees and the vital role they play within the ecosystem. “It will also provide a unique opportunity

for students of Woodlea’s local primary school who will be able to participate in guided walking tours, as well as watching what goes on inside the hive via a ‘hive cam’ – a camera installed inside one of the beehives to provide a first-hand experience,” he said. Aintree Primary School pupils have also played a role in painting and decorating the hives as part of their remote learning art class. Woodlea residents will also have the opportunity to learn about the hives via community days, and will be able to purchase the honey via Aintree Cafe and Garden, a social enterprise cafe located within the estate.

Upgrades to commuter parking at Caroline Springs train station are a step closer, with community feedback about the project being sought. The upgrades, which are part of the state government’s carparks for commuters program, will result in 400 new or upgraded car spaces being constructed at the station. The new carpark will be built along Christies Road, north of the existing carpark. As reported by Star Weekly, commuters have complained about the lack of parking at the station since it opened in 2017. These works will also include accessible parking spaces, bike hoops, new lighting, CCTV and landscaping, with the project expected to be completed late next year. The upgrades at Caroline Springs station are one of three commuter carpark upgrades in the west in the early planning phase. Community consultation is also being sought for Tarneit and Wyndham Vale stations. Consultation on the Caroline Springs station parking upgrades finishes on September 20. Details: http://ow.ly/8juu50G0tQk Tara Murray

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Hoon driving charges A 19-year-old Melton South man and 21-year-old Broadmeadows man have been charged with hooning related offences after police executed search warrants in Melton and Broadmeadows last Thursday. Police said several items were seized during the searches, including a Holden Commodore, a Chrysler 300, edged weapons and multiple electronic devices. The men have been charged with multiple counts of reckless conduct causing serious injury, driving in a dangerous manner, and careless driving. The Melton South man was also charged with driving while suspended. He was bailed to appear at Werribee Magistrates Court on May 26, 2022. The Broadmeadows man was bailed to appear at the Broadmeadows Magistrates Court on April 28, 2022.

Mayoral Charity Fund Not-for-profit community organisations and groups are being encouraged to apply for a one-off donation under Melton City Council’s Mayoral Charity Fund. Donations of up to $1500 are available to support groups to develop or implement projects that will benefit the community. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the fund was set up as an alternative to holding the traditional Mayoral Ball. Applications close 5pm Monday, September 27 via melton.vic. gov.au/charityfund FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Mary Maksemos with one of the kitchens she has designed.

(Supplied)

Nominations a highlight A Burnside mum of two said winning an AusMumpreneur award would be one of the biggest highlights of her career. Mary Maksemos from Maksemos Group has been nominated for five awards, which celebrate and recognise Australian mums in business. She has been nominated for the creative entrepreneur, business excellence, service business, AusMumpreneur of the year and business pivot awards. Ms Maksemos said she was shocked to have been named as a finalist. “I’m pretty excited,” she said. “I’ve worked my butt off the last two years. “I didn’t even know about the awards, I’m always working and I hadn’t stopped to put my name forward. I’m the only designer in the building and construction field nominated, there aren’t many women in my field. “Personally it would mean more than any design award, it meant I was being recognised

as a businesswoman.” Ms Maksemos stumbled into the industry many years ago and mass produced many kitchen designs for major companies. She then decided to set up her own company and help people’s house dreams come true that way. “I’d just brought into a franchise when COVID hit and I thought what am I going to do now? That is when I realised going online was the answer. “The online virtual store happened along with an augmented reality app which makes it easier for people to look at the kitchen in their house.” Ms Maksemos said it was pretty special to be a role model for her two children and she was a proud mum. The award winners will be announced this month. Tara Murray

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RUNNY NOSE OR COVID? The only way to be sure is with a test at the first sign of any symptom.

For testing locations, visit CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, Melbourne

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Spring into gardens for stunning show Spring has arrived in spectacular fashion at the Melton Botanic Garden. A burst of warm weather has coaxed blossom into bloom throughout the garden, a welcoming destination for those looking to stretch their legs and take in some fresh air during the lengthy lockdown.

Visitors are able to walk, scoot or ride bikes along meandering trails and around the lake, enjoying a wide array of flora, birds, insects and reptiles. Melton Botanic Garden is at 40 Lakewood Boulevard, Melton. Benjamin Millar

Upcoming WVTNP Webinars and Community Engagement Sessions The Western Victoria Transmission Network Project will be hosting webinars where environmental and technical specialists will present their findings to-date and answer any questions. Corridor selection webinars Please join us live on Thursday the 16th September - at either 11.00am and 7.00pm - to find out about how the single corridor was selected and to ask any questions you might have on the process itself. Webinar series on key topics In late September the environmental and technical specialists will be holding webinars on a variety of topics including agriculture, transmission line safety and bushfire, as well as valuation and compensation for transmission line easements. Dates and times will be available on the project website soon. All webinars will be recorded and be available on the project website. Community engagement sessions In early October we will be hosting community engagement sessions in Waubra, Ballarat, Darley and Melton. With the evolving COVID-19 situation in Victoria, these sessions may be held online, however our strong preference is face-to-face if restrictions allow. More information will be available on the project website in the coming weeks – www.westvictnp.com.au Delivered by

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First day of spring at Melton Botanic Garden. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 249463

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Tips to lighten your mental load By Adjunct Associate Professor Christopher Carter Ceo, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network Construction workers, including tradespeople, are twice as likely to die by suicide as their peers, and have twice the rate of anxiety and depression. This might come as a surprise if you buy in to the ‘tradie’ stereotype. That is, a ‘she’ll be right’ bloke with an easy job and few cares in the world, beyond keeping the knock-off beers ice-cold. Yet this kind of thinking has allowed us to overlook the significant contributions and sacrifices tradespeople make, and the pressures they face. Here’s one scenario. You’re self-employed, with two young children at home. Money is tight, and cashflow erratic. You’re working long physically demanding hours onsite, often by yourself, or with responsibility for others less experienced, and still need to come home at night and manage the business – including sustaining a pipeline of work so you can keep paying the rent. The industry tells us that scenarios like this are common. Job security, financial pressures and the nature of solo work, as well as other life stresses, affect male and female tradespeople of all ages. Stigma about mental health, and alcohol and drug dependence, are also common issues. On top of this, sole-traders and their families often don’t have access to the support that medium and large businesses, unions or trade organisations can provide. And Melbourne tradies have faced increased pressures due to issues created by COVID-19, such as having to limit work to emergency or vacant premises during lockdown.

A new mental health campaign aimed at tradies features Nathan, Zane and Jacob showing that sharing the load helps everyone.

As anyone on a worksite knows, if you need to carry something heavy, you get help. Sadly, this logic is not applied when we are carrying heavy emotional loads, with tradies much less likely to seek help early than the general population. That’s why we’ve created the ‘Lighten the Load’ campaign, and enhanced our HeadtoHelp service to better meet the needs of

Melton City Council is inviting local, not for proﬁt community groups, clubs and organisations to apply for a donation of up to $1500, under the Mayoral Charity Fund, which has been established by the Mayor, Cr Kathy Majdlik. For full eligibility criteria and to apply visit melton.vic.gov.au/charityfund Applications close 5pm, Monday 27 September 2021.

tradies. Check out Headtohelp.org.au/tradies. Staff at HeadtoHelp – a free, 100 per cent confidential service – are now trained to support tradies, their mates or their families. All you need to do is make a free call to 1800 595 212. You’ll talk to a professional, who’ll listen carefully to understand what’s going on, and give you advice or connect you to what you need. This might be mental health support

(Supplied)

including counselling at one of the HeadtoHelp hubs, which is also free. As a tradie in one of our ‘Lighten the Load’ videos says: ‘The longer you carry stuff, the heavier it gets … So talk to someone who can help, before it really weighs you down.’ Details: HeadtoHelp 1800 595 212 (free call), 8.30am – 5pm weekdays (excluding public holidays). Call triple-0 in an emergency.

DISABILITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE EXPRESSION OF INTEREST The Committee meets bi-monthly during the day on a Thursday for two hours.

Council is seeking expressions of interest from a community representative to fulfill a vacancy on the Melton Disability Advisory Committee.

The term for this vacancy is until June 2022. Applications close: Friday 17 September

Expressions of interest are open to a person with a disability. The Committee advises Council on issues relating to access and inclusion for people with disabilities living, working, studying or visiting the City of Melton.

For further information, Terms of Reference or to apply contact the Advocacy & Inclusion Officer on 0499 027 473 or email nicolemig@melton.vic.gov.au

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Sheds are a vital wellbeing tool The coronavirus pandemic may have kept Victoria’s Men’s Sheds locked up for lengthy periods, but the strong bonds that have been formed have held firm throughout. Benjamin Millar looks at the important role the sheds continue to play across Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs.

or Melton’s Joe Doyle, the local Men’s Shed is a home away from home. Along with his wife Carole, Mr Doyle was instrumental in the Melton Men’s Shed’s formation a little over a decade ago. As a team leader, the Vietnam veteran was a familiar face at the shed week in, week out, until the COVID-19 lockdown hit. Mr Doyle, 76, is just one of thousands of men around the country who find the sheds a welcoming place to ply their craft or simply have a chat, staying connected with their communities during a stage of life many men otherwise find themselves adrift. “My wife Carole had an idea about starting up a Men’s Shed in Melton like so many other suburbs were doing,” he said. “I’ve got PTSD, I was a Vietnam veteran, so it’s been a great place to go and meet other people and to get out of the house. “I used to be isolated at home and didn’t want to go out or anything, it gave me an out, somewhere to go and look forward to it.”

Joe Doyle has been part of Melton Men’s Shed since it started a decade ago. (Damjan Janevski) 249607_01

‘‘

It’s a place for likeminded people to come and have a coffee or a chat - Joe Doyle

’’

Over the past 10 years the shed has gone from strength to strength, attracting men of all ages to join activities throughout the week, from woodwork and cooking to cycling and games. Describing himself as “a bit of a handyman” who likes working with his hands, prior to lockdown Mr Doyle could often be found tinkering on his own projects, helping other people with repairs or training up others in the use of the machinery. While the practical side is certainly part of the attraction, it’s the camaraderie that Mr Doyle has grown to cherish. “It’s a place for likeminded people to come and have a coffee or a chat, we don’t discriminate against people, we take people as they are,” he said. “I’m 76, but it’s all different ages, you don’t have to be an old bugger like me.” That welcoming attitude can be found across the growing number of Men’s Sheds scattered across Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs. John Owen from the Taylors Hill Men’s Shed was in a similar boat to Mr Doyle, looking around for something to keep his hands and mind occupied after retirement. “I’ve always been a very busy person and very practical, so when the Men’s Shed started here about at about four years ago I thought I would give it a go,” he said. “It provides a good community, you are able to chat with the guys and talk about your issues and problems without judgment and that’s great. “A lot of the guys that are there are lonely, perhaps they’re widowed and they find it good to be able to go somewhere and be able to talk.” Mr Owen, 80, said one of the things he is proudest of is the mentoring program the shed runs for children who are struggling a little bit at school. “We spend two hours a week for six weeks with them and during that time we get them to do a little project like a pencil case or a small table with legs that fold out that they can give to their mum,” he said. “There was one boy who was struggling to go school, after he started with the program with us he totally changed, his mother came around one day and said they couldn’t believe the difference.” More than 1200 Men’s, Women’s and Community Sheds have now popped up

1/ John Owen from the Taylor’s Hill Men’s Shed. 2/ Whittlesea Men’s Shed president Phil Berchdolt. 3/ Romsey Men’s Shed president Steve Goodman, vice president Douglas Tozer and members Laurie Bellingham and Stevan Janusko at the shed’s opening earlier this year. 4/ Rod Jackson working in the Hume Men’s Shed Sunbury workshop. 5/ Barry Burbridge tending the Hume Men’s Shed Sunbury vegie gardens before lockdown. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski and supplied) across the country, providing meaningful connections that help stop people fall through the gaps in their later years. Speaking during Men’s Shed Week (August 30 to September 5), Australian Men’s Shed Association chairman Paul Sladdin said the fundamentals of Men’s Sheds are connection, community and camaraderie. He said while the lengthy lockdown has made it difficult for people to meet in person, participants have found ways to stay connected throughout.

10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 September, 2021

“The pandemic has certainly got in the way of Shedders getting together in person as much as they’d like to over the last 18 months,” he said. “But like us, Men’s Sheds around the country have found ways to stay in touch and to support their mates by other means and that’s what we’re celebrating this year.” Mr Doyle said even though nobody has been able to head down to the Melton shed sessions, the men have still kept in touch and regularly check in on each other.

“The telephone is our go-between, we’re not allowed out so we can’t go visit, so we keep in contact on the telephone,” he said. He’s nevertheless looking forward to returning to the shed once restrictions ease and thinks the men aren’t the only ones looking forward to the day. “When I first started a lot of the wives told their husbands to ‘get down to that Men’s Shed and give me peace’,” he said. “It gets the men out of the house so the women can have some peace.”

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

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

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

Mahjong group Interested in learning to play Mahjong? U3A Melton has a group who play on Tuesdays at 10am. ■ u3amelton.com or 0419 563 016

First aid courses Melton South Community Centre offers a number of first aid courses for people wanting to learn or renew these valuable skills. One-day classes are held on Saturdays throughout the year. ■ 9747 8576

This canola field near Truganina caught the eye of photographer Damjan Janevski. (248986_01)

Melton Probus Club The Melton Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63A Reserve Road, from 9.45am. New members and visitors are most welcome. ■ 9746 0271

Book week Young readers are being encouraged to be book critics as part of the CBCA Book of the Year awards. Readers can download the Beanstack app and earn badges for writing a review of the one of six shortlisted titles in the ‘2021 CBCA Book of the Year Awards: Younger Readers’ category. Entries go into the draw to win a $30 book voucher. The challenge runs until September 30. ■ https://www.beanstack.com/

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 are welcome. ■ Don, 0409 191 580

Adult learning month Brimbank council is running a range of different online sessions throughout September. The sessions include money skills and staying safe online, managing your money, practicing your English online and getting started with E-resources. ■ brimbank.vic.gov.au/events

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.

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

Senior citizens club

Goal setting for seniors

Senior citizens are welcome to visit the Sunbury Senior Citizens’ Club on Mondays and Fridays, from 10am-3pm at 8 O’Shannassy Street. A variety of activities offered – carpet bowls, cards, snooker, darts, board games or just a cup of coffee and a chat. Lunch subsidised. If you’re over 55 years of age and would like to meet new people, come along. ■ Frank, 0423 392 884

EdConnect Australia, with support from Wyndham council, will run a free lunch and goal setting strategies workshop for seniors, which will cover using open-ended questions to elicit goals from young people or students and other topics, on Wednesday, October 20 from 10am – 1.30pm at The Grange Community Centre, 260-280 Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing. ■ www.eventbrite.com.au

Fibro/CFS Support

Additional needs support

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

MyTime at Tweddle Newport is a peer support group for parents and carers of children with additional needs. The group meets each Friday at 10am during term three in the community room at Newport Gardens Early Years Centre, 51 Maddox Road, Newport. ■ kim.mace@tweddle.org.au

■

Lesley, 9369 1785

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

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

Guided walk

MS volunteers The Multiple Sclerosis Community Visitors Scheme is seeking female Maltese and Italian volunteers to make a weekly visit to aged care residents in Altona Meadows and Point Cook. ■ Sue, 9845 2744 or volunteer@ms.org. au

Drawing fun Learn how to draw a Koi fish pond with oil pastels online Tuesday, September 14 at 10am. Join Madhubani for a virtual art class where she demonstrates how to create your own Koi fish pond drawing using oil pastels. This is a free workshop offered through the Iramoo Community Centre. ■ admin@iramoocc.com.au

Bee keeping session Wanting to learn more about bee keeping? Join Carmel from CMG Honeybee as she chats to you in an online session about starting your own beehive on Wednesday, September 15 at 10am. All participants who book in will receive their own packet of bee friendly plant seeds. This is a free workshop offered through the Iramoo Community Centre. ■ admin@iramoocc.com.au

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

Free computer workshops Williamstown Community and Education Centre is running free computer workshops on 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

Enjoy a leisurely 90 minute walk with guide, John, starting at the Williamstown Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place, each Tuesday starting at 9.20am. ■ John, 0418 377 336

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

Laverton Community Choir Hobsons Bay band 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, hbcityband@gmail.com

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

All welcome for a friendly singing get-together, suitable for all ages and abilities on Thursday nights from 7pm during school term at the Laverton P-12 College, 91 Bladin Street, Laverton. ■ Ada, 0419 116 013

Rotary club Rotary Club of Point Gellibrand meets at Customs House Hotel, 161 Nelson Place, Williamstown, on the first and third Tuesday of the month from 6pm for a 6.30pm dinner meeting. Visitors welcome. ■ Pam, 0418 347 691 or rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com

Tuesday, 7 September, 2021 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING

Advertising feature

McKenzie Aged Care Group welcomes you to the family McKenzie Aged Care Group was founded by a family who saw a need to create an environment that truly felt like a family home. For over 20 years, McKenzie Aged Care Group has been based on the foundations of family values, resulting in the creation and growth of 17 homes that have become warm and welcoming communities. Like the core of any strong family McKenzie proudly stands by the principle that “we put people first.” The McKenzie family vision – to provide aged care homes that they’d be proud to live in – started when sisters Sally and Mary-Ann McKenzie opened their first home in 2001, in the inner Melbourne suburb of Windsor. Their vision continues today with homes around Queensland, Victoria and New South Wales, where the needs of residents remain the focus at every stage, and where they truly feel like part of the McKenzie family. “In a world where we are all impacted by the effects of COVID-19 and continually experiencing periods of isolation, lockdowns and separation from our loved ones, the family unit has never been more important,” says Mary-Ann McKenzie, one of McKenzie Aged Care’s directors. “When families entrust their loved ones into our care, they will feel happy knowing that we are a family business that will care for their loved one like one of our own.” Each McKenzie home has its own unique character. Surrounded by beautiful gardens that offer a place to enjoy a coffee in the sunshine with friends and family, all homes feature a library, activities rooms and welcoming living spaces where you can enjoy the company of others. The light and spacious bedrooms include their own ensuite, while some feature a private courtyard or balcony. Residents are encouraged to bring personal items, such as pictures and

Your loved one will feel at home with the McKenzie family. (Supplied)

their favourite quilt – important elements that help make the transition into their new home feel more comfortable. “At a time when family really matters, we want to provide the community with the confidence they need when it’s time to make a decision to enter aged care,” explains Sally McKenzie, director of the group. “McKenzie is a place where they’ll know that

their family will matter.” McKenzie understands that the decision to move into a home is a big step. That’s why they have dedicated team members ready to assist at every stage of your family’s journey into care. “What we say about ourselves is never as important as what families say about us,” says Sally. “The letters and messages of gratitude we receive from residents and families confirms to

us that we are providing the quality care and support at a time of their lives when they need it most.” Your nearest McKenzie Aged Care home is Sutton Park in Melton South. To learn more and discover the quality care that McKenzie can provide for your loved one, call 1300 899 222 today or visit www.mckenzieacg.com.

““ The staff athave All the staff Sutton Park go been excellent. They make above and each beyond. resident worthy arefeel –They Mary, daughter ofamazing!” Sutton Park resident. and special.”

– Bob Jones, Edna’s son.

Our Residences: OurVictorian Victorian Residences: Lynbrook Park Sutton Park 42 Olive Road, Lynbrook 126-134 Exford Road, Melton South The Ashley

Lynbrook 17-21 AshleyPark Street, Reservoir 42Rosebrook Olive Road, Lynbrook 441Ashley Waterfall Gully Road, Rosebud The Newmans the Park 17-21 AshleyonStreet, Reservoir 33 Newmans Road, Templestowe

Rosebrook Charlesbrook 441 WaterfallAvenue, GullyTemplestowe Road, Rosebud 1 Innisfallen

We believe that everyone deserves to live the happiest We believe that everyone deserves to live the happiest life they can. So by providing the right care, the very life they can. So by providing the right care, the very best professionals, beautiful surroundings and caring best professionals, beautiful surroundings and caring

We understand that the decision to join our We understand that the decision to join our you see for yourself the level of care and compassion you see for yourself the level of care and compassion our residents enjoy, you’ll want to call McKenzie home. our residents enjoy, you’ll want to call McKenzie home.

Sutton Parkon the Park Newmans 33 Newmans Road, Templestowe

Charlesbrook 1 Innisfallen Avenue, Templestowe

1300 899 222 | mckenzieacg.com 12506347-BL32-21

12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 September, 2021

FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING

Advertising feature

Feel right at home with Villa Maria Catholic Homes Aged care has been in the spotlight recently as we come to terms with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on everyday life. As one of the leaders in aged care facilities, Villa Maria Catholic Homes (VMCH) provides personalised care for all residents. Mel is a personal care assistant (PCA) at VMCH Providence Aged Care Residence in Bacchus Marsh. As a valued staff member working in the memory support unit, Mel’s own personal experience has led her to a career in aged care. Mel’s nan had dementia, and now Mel spends every day helping our residents to retain their independence, and have fun in a warm, inviting, home-like environment. We chatted to Mel about the care she and her colleagues provide at VMCH. What does a ‘normal’ day look like for you? We start off by doing a check of all the residents, even if they’re still sleeping. We never wake them unless there is a real need. We then prepare the dining room, and assist the residents to get ready. In most cases, the residents can shower and dress themselves with direction and reassurance, as keeping their independence is very important. Residents can help themselves to breakfast as everything is labelled and easily accessible, and we are there to give help if needed. We then have activities, which are very person-centred, so we have something for everyone. We do gardening, painting, jigsaws, reading, sensory games, walking groups and more! Music and dancing is very popular, so we often dance and sing along. We also have some residents that love to help with the house-keeping, including doing the dishes and laundry folding, etc. After lunch we have quiet time, and after this some of the residents help us bake for afternoon tea. Then we get ready for the late

The caring staff are always on hand to support residents at VMCH.

afternoon and evening, and prepare to do it all again tomorrow! What is so special about the Providence memory support unit? The unit itself is so beautiful, with lots of light and a lovely garden area. Everything is accessible to all of the residents, which helps make it feel like it’s their home. The staff don’t wear a uniform either, which adds to that feeling of being at home. We often sit down and have a cuppa or a meal with the residents

(Supplied)

which is also really nice – they (and we) love it. The amount of care, understanding and compassion in the memory support unit is beautiful. Why do you love working in the memory support unit? I love being able to have that one-on-one time and building a relationship while getting to know the residents. I love knowing their backgrounds. We have a couple of real characters in here, so having a giggle with

them is just beautiful. I love helping them have the quality of life they deserve. Seeing the smiles on their faces when they have achieved something they haven’t done in a while is fantastic. It’s satisfying to help them overcome a bad day and smile on the other side. For more information about VMCH Providence Aged Care Residence, or VMCH’s memory support unit, contact 1300 698 624 or visit www.vmch.com.au.

12509788-DL35-21

Tuesday, 7 September, 2021 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 045

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

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

7 9 2 3 6 8 3

5 7

medium

3 2

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

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

Constable (9) Matures (4) Eggs (3) Booking (11) Pseudonyms (3-5) Project (6) Wildcat (4) Teased (7) Expresses disapproval (7) Tract (4) Come back (6) NY theatre district (8) Bases (11) Bedridden (3) Artist, — Ono (4) Adorn with glitter (9)

1 6 10 11 12 13 14 15 20 21 25 26 28 29 30 31

No. 045

Punctually (8) Studying (8) Grain (6) Be naughty (9) Benchmark (4) Ushered (6) Did wrong (6) Axe (7) Infamous (9) Gatecrash (7) Surfing (the web) (8) Colour (4,4) Sly (6) Hit (6) R&R spot (3,3) 27 Wound with a knife (4)

1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9 16 17 18 19 22 23 24

DECODER

No. 045

5 1 4

9 5 4 9 8 9 2 5 1

6 hard

6 3

3 2 7

7 3

1 5 7 9

10 11 12 13

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

Q J

2 5 1 4 7 6 8 3 9

1 7 2 3 9 6 4 5 8

5 9 3 4 1 8 7 6 2

4 6 8 2 7 5 1 3 9

9 4 1 6 8 7 3 2 5

8 3 7 1 5 2 6 9 4

6 2 5 9 3 4 8 7 1

9-LETTER WORD

4 LETTERS ARTS BABE CAPE DYES FAME GATE HERO INNS LADS ONCE ONES RIDE ROOK SARI SECT

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: 20 words: Good 30 words: Very good 40 words: Excellent

Y B

3 LETTERS ACE ADO ADS AGE ALE ARE ATE AXE BOA COO DIE DOE EEL ERA EWE HER NIP ODE OLD RAM RUM SAC SAT TEE TEN VIP

No. 045

SOME TALC VAST 5 LETTERS ADULT ALLAH ALONE ASSET AWAIT CAMPS DELTA DEPTH EDICT ENSUE ERODE FELTS GASES GASPS HEELS IDEAL

IDIOM IDLER INLET LADEN LINER MANOR METRE MULTI NAMES NOSED PLIED PLODS POLIO RADIO SAVER SEEMS SLIDE SMITE SOLAR SORRY STEAL

STONE TEASE TERSE TILDE VEILS VILLA YESES 6 LETTERS ELEVEN ENTITY 7 LETTERS ERRATIC EXPANSE

FALSITY LATTICE ORDERED TYPESET 8 LETTERS CHASTISE DIABETIC STOCKADE TIRELESS 10 LETTERS HENCEFORTH PRINCESSES

8 9 2 4 5 7 3 6 1

airy, angry, baying, betray, BETRAYING, binary, brainy, bray, braying, briny, byre, byte, entry, eying, gaiety, gantry, gayer, gentry, grainy, grey, gyrate, gyre, nary, nearby, rainy, raying, retying, tangy, teary, tiny, tray, trey, trying, tying, tyre, yarn, yean, year, yearn, yeti

3 8 6 5 2 1 9 4 7

7 5 9 8 4 3 2 1 6

2 1 4 7 6 9 5 8 3

3 4 9 8 2 5 1 6 7

6 8 7 9 3 1 4 5 2

8 7 2 1 5 9 6 4 3

4 9 6 3 8 2 5 7 1

5 1 3 6 4 7 2 9 8

1 6 8 7 9 4 3 2 5

9 2 4 5 1 3 7 8 6

7 3 5 2 6 8 9 1 4

hard

medium

easy

8 9

8 1 2

2 9

C UD Y E BWKN R G X H

T S Z L F I VMAO P Q J

WORDFIT

5 3 7 6 8 1 2 9 4

6 1 4 3 9 2 5 8 7

3 5 9 8 1 4 6 7 2

2 6 8 5 7 9 4 1 3

7 4 1 2 6 3 9 5 8

4 8 5 1 2 6 7 3 9

1 7 3 9 4 5 8 2 6

9 2 6 7 3 8 1 4 5

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

10-09-21

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14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 September, 2021

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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Submissions should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer and emailed to legalservices@melton.vic.gov.au, posted to PO Box 21 Melton 3337 or by completing an online form that can be found on Council’s website. All submissions will be considered in accordance with Council’s Community Engagement Policy. If any person wishes to be heard in support of their written submission then Council will convene a Section 223 Submission Advisory Committee Meeting to accommodate those who requested to be heard in person (via video conference), at 6:15pm on 11 October 2021.

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Any person may make a submission in accordance with Council’s Community Engagement Policy, they must do so in writing within 28 days of the date of publication of this notice, that is by 5 pm on 4 October 2021. Any person who wishes to speak at a Section 223 Submissions Advisory Committee Meeting in support of their written submission must request this in their submission.

Kelvin Tori CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

1232632-ACM26-16

฀

3. City Circle agrees to carry out all works required to give effect to the partial surrender of land, including constructing a new crossover and driveway to the Land from Tree Leaf Lane (Tenant’s Works) at its own cost, by January 2022.

Further information regarding the Lease may be obtained from Cole Sloan, Legal Officer 9747 7200 or legalservices@melton.vic.gov.au.

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2. City Circle partially surrender the leased area, in accordance with the updated plan below, removing the pond at the north-east section from the leased area and the current City Circle operations from the southern section including the Car Park & Office at the current entry of Tree Leaf Lane.

Following the consideration of any submissions, Council may resolve to vary the lease as detailed above, or not proceed with the proposal.

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Any person making a submission should be aware that their submission including their personal information may form part of the agenda and minutes of a meeting of the Council and be available to the public.

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which Rabbitohs player recently received a sixweek suspension for a reckless high tackle?

7. Australian-born tackle Jordan Mailata is currently with which NFL team?

13. Fabio Quartararo, the current leader of the MotoGP championship, is from which country?

2. Who defeated Australia 57-22 in Round 1 of the 2021 Rugby Championship?

8. What medal did Evan O’Hanlon win in the men's 100 metres T38 event at the Tokyo Paralympics?

14. Which English batsman has scored three 100s in three Tests against India in their series so far?

3. Bryson DeChambeau is a US professional in what sport? 4. Which city will host the 2021 AFL Grand Final? 5. Who lost in straight sets in the first round of the 2021 US Open to Roberto Bautista Agut?

15. A card game similar to bridge that was popular in the 18th and 19th centuries is called what?

9. Matthew Dellavedova has signed a three-year deal with which NBL team?

16. Which Australian tennis player exited in the first round of the US Open against American Taylor Fritz?

10. What year did Essendon last win an AFL final? 11. In the AFL, GWS defeated Sydney by how many points in their elimination final?

6. What medal did Lauren Parker win in the women’s PTWC event at the Tokyo Paralympics?

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17. True or false: Odd Christian Eiking is the name of a current Norwegian cyclist? 18. How many full laps were completed in the Belgian Grand Prix, in which Max Verstappen was declared winner and earned halfpoints?

12. And who was suspended for three matches after making contact with an umpire?

19. And which Williams driver finished second, his first ever podium finish and the team's first in four years? 20. Which AFL team removed the red and green colours from their guernsey in 2011?

21. Which AFL commentator was banned from entering Western Australia to cover the Grand Final?

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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.

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MOTOR

The upgraded Mazda6 sedan’s swoopy coupe looks belie its mid-range passenger car status. (Pictures: Supplied)

Mazda’s new mid-range offering By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring While SUVs and pickup trucks reign supreme on the world’s automobile markets, the humble sedan can only stand by, looking on in envy. One such observer, the Mazda6, has paid the price for this fickle sales atmosphere. Despite this, the company has persisted with its mid-range passenger car in sedan and wagon form, while simplifying it to four variants - Sport, Touring, GT SP and Atenza. New kid on the block is the GT SP, which according to Mazda Australia managing director Vinesh Bhindi, brings a distinctly sporty character to the range and builds on the local GT SP portfolio alongside the CX-9. The GT SP, along with the range-topping Atenza, take on a turbocharged version of the 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine used across the range, developing 170 kW and 420 Nm. The Sport and Touring make do with the naturally aspirated unit delivering 140 kW and 252 Nm. As well as engine enhancements, the GT SP boasts 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive front lighting and leather upholstery on heated front and rear seating. The sedan sells for $46,690, plus on-road costs, the wagon $47,990. The entry-level sports sedan comes to market at a competitive $34,590, plus ORCs, the wagon $35,890. We were given a taste of the upgrades with the former.

Styling This is no white-bread model. In looks alone, the Mazda6 Sedan has earned the right to stand shoulder to shoulder with prestige product with a price sticker above and beyond its own. With its sleek, coupe-style profile and 17-inch alloy wheels, the car commands attention. The Mazda signature radiator grille is flanked by LED headlamps and daytime running lights, while rear lighting repeats the reliance on LED technology.

Interior Despite showing its age in decor, black cloth upholstery sets the scene with its look of quality, complemented by a leather wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifts. An electric park brake features a hold function. Rear seat leg and shoulder room is good and dual zone climate control incorporates rear vents but getting in and out of the back is a chore because of a pinched door opening due to the swoopy nature of the sedan. Boot space is a usable 474 litres.

Infotainment An 8-inch full colour touch screen atop the central dashboard displays info from the car’s MZD Connect system, including embedded satellite navigation. Bluetooth is hands-free capable and USB-audio input ports are iPod compatible. There’s a USB charging port in the rear seat armrest.

Engines / transmissions Sport and Touring sedans and wagons feature Mazda’s well-respected Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, mated with a six-speed automatic transmission, driving the front wheels. The set-up produces 140 kW of power at 6000 rpm and 252 Nm of torque at 4000 revs. On 91-octane unleaded petrol, fuel consumption is a claimed 7 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway cycle.

Safety A five-star safety rating is 2018 vintage. It includes intelligent speed assistance, smart city brake support, front and rear, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and driver attention alert. Also fitted are rear parking sensors, high beam control, rear view mirror with

auto dimming, reverse camera, traffic sign recognition and tyre pressure monitoring.

Driving The Mazda6 Sport Sedan offered up a quirky welcome, with a nod to the past in that the doors are unlocked by use of a key fob button - no modern touch of the door handle here and then discarded for a dash-mounted push button start to the engine. A further minor beef is fitment of the old 8-inch Mazda MZD Connect infotainment system and not the newer Mazda Connect as in the Mazda3 and CX-30. However, the familiar Command Control knob on the centre console does make access to info easy while the vehicle is on the move. Having said that, the entry-level Sport does what a mid-size passenger sedan is supposed to: carry occupants in comfort and safety and be a pleasure to drive. No worries. The six-speed automatic transmission did much to do this smoothly and efficiently, while the suspension was up to taking the rough and tumble of some scratchy roads no matter what load the car was carting. Don’t take the word ‘Sport’ literally. Performance is not the prerogative here. For that a step up is needed to the GT SP or Atenza, with the turbocharged 2.5-litre unit generating 170 kW at 5000 rpm and a robust 420 Nm at a low 2000 rpm. Mazda claims the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine of the Sport uses 7 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres. The test car recorded 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in the CBD and suburbs and 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the motorway.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Mazda6 2.5 Sport Sedan automatic $34,590 Mazda6 2.5 Touring Sedan (a) $38,890 Mazda6 2.5 GT SP Sedan (a) $46,690 Mazda6 2.5 Atenza Sedan (a) $50,090 SPECIFICATIONS ENGINE: Capacity: 2.488 litres Configuration: Four cylinders in line Maximum Power: 140 kW @ 6000 rpm Maximum Torque: 252 Nm @ 4000 rpm Fuel Type: Petrol 91 RON Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 7.0 L/100km BRAKES: Front: Ventilated disc Rear: Disc STANDARD WARRANTY: Five years / unlimited kilometres

Summary For those interested in buying a mid-size passenger car (are there any out there?) the Mazda6 Sedan serves the segment well.

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

Tuesday, 7 September, 2021 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

Lockdown forces seasons to end The Ballarat Football and Netball League has joined all metropolitan leagues in pulling the plug on competition for 2021. After forcing the abandonment of the 2020 season, COVID-19 restrictions have now spelled the end of the delay-plagued 2021 season. The Ballarat FNL board last week announced the “tough decision” to cancel the 2021 senior competition finals series would also apply to BFLW Women’s competition. The state government announcement that metropolitan restrictions were unlikely to ease until at least September 23, combined with the unlikely ability of community sport to return to competition from that date, meant that the earliest the finals could be conducted would be October 9, given the need to provide a minimum 14-day period for training. “It is the belief of the board, given the above,

certainty should be provided to our many players, volunteers and supporters who have been in a holding pattern as we live through the current COVID-affected period,” a spokesman said. The highest-ranked clubs will be recognised as “2021 Minor Premiers” in each grade, meaning North Ballarat take the title in the seniors after finishing one win ahead of Melton. Restrictions mean the Henderson Medal for the best and fairest senior footballer and Sally McLean Medal for the best and fairest A Grade netballer will be held as an online event on September 15. Riddell District FNL also joined all metropolitan leagues in deciding to cancel all competitions for the remainder of the 2021 season, a frustrating end to the year for Diggers Rest who finished third on the ladder.

General manager Jordan Doyle said the decision was an extremely difficult one and has not been made lightly, with all leagues working diligently in the hope of enabling the remaining games in the 2021 season to be played. “Unfortunately, after weeks and months of competition changes and plans being altered, yesterday’s state government announcement regarding another lockdown extension has meant our football and netball seasons are over for 2021,” he said. “Thanks to everyone in our community for their tireless work keeping the flame going for 2021. “We are already looking forward to our competitions starting in April 2022 for hopefully an uninterrupted season.” Benjamin Millar

Melton flew high in 2021, finishing second in the BFNL seniors competition. (Damjan Janevski) 245808

A new day dawns for Mornings

Josh Risdon at Western United training.

(Supplied)

Risdon sets new goals By Tara Murray After a forgettable season, Western United defender Josh Risdon is hoping to return to his best and put his name back in front of national selectors. Risdon played just three games last season, with two major injuries leaving him on the sidelines for most of the year. He admits it was a frustrating season. “It was pretty tough for me last season, obviously being injured for most of it,” he said. “I had two bad injuries. The first one kept me out for six to seven months which was the most frustrating thing. “I obviously wanted to play games and sitting on the sidelines was not very fun. I got myself back fit from that initial injury and feeling really good to get my second one third game back wasn’t ideal. “We tapered off towards the end of the season and it was hard to watch not being able to help to get the team into finals.” Risdon said he had worked hard to get his

body right and he had been fully fit from the start of pre-season. He said things were going along nicely under new coach John Aloisi. “I think we’re six or seven weeks in now,” he said. “The body is holding up good and I’m staying injury free which is nice. “There’s a lot of new faces, new players and staff. Aloisi being the new coach and he wasn’t here from the start as he had to quarantine. “Once he came in he brought in Hayden Foxe as well and they are really driving the sessions and it’s been great. “I know a lot of the guys are impressed with the sessions that we’re doing and the intensity. It’s a long pre-season but they’re keeping it enjoyable for us.“ Risdon, who became a father for the first time this year, said his first aim this season was to try and play some consistent soccer. “That’s my first and foremost goal,” he said. “I want to do more than that, I want to stand out a big part of helping this team do well. “I think we’ve got a really good squad

18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 September, 2021

this year and we can challenge for a trophy. Being part of that and now being one of the experienced boys in the team, now I’ve got to help out the younger boys and be a leader at the club.” Risdon also has his eyes set on a recall to the Socceroos squad. He was part of the Socceroos team at the last World Cup. “A big goal of mine when I came to Western United was to get back into the Socceroos squad,” he said. “I got into a camp last year, but obviously things were out of our hands with COVID-19 situation. “Towards the back of end of last year they started to play some more games and then being injured wasn’t ideal as I hadn’t played enough games. “It’s definitely a goal of mine to get back fit and get my name in and among the national team again. We have the World Cup next year and going to that last one has made me hungrier to go to another one. “Hopefully I can stay injury free and put out some good performances and get to go again.”

Mornings added to her perfect record at Beckley Park while giving trainer Damien Burns the biggest win of his career on Saturday night. The five-year-old mare backed up her metro victory in Geelong from mid-July with a commanding triumph in the Alabar Vicbred Platinum Pace (2100m), where she beat a top field of mares for young driver James Herbertson. Burns, from Snake Valley, has won over 70 races in his time as a trainer, but none have been richer than the Group 3 feature worth $30,000. Herbertson praised the mare, who has now won 14 races and eclipsed the $100,000 mark in prizemoney. “She won her M0 here probably about five weeks ago now and she was able to pick up another,” Herbertson said. There’s major Group 1 plans afoot for Western Sonador and Rebecca Bartley’s little star proved he’s right on track to land a blow at the elite level with victory in Saturday night’s TAB Minuteman Free For All (2100m). Bartley, who trains in partnership with Stephen O’Donohue, produced a cool front-running drive with the maturing five-year-old and he showed his best to take out the $24,000 feature. A couple of long winning droughts were broken early in the card, with A Jewel In The Crown and Chissy bringing some joy to patient connections in the Aldebaran Park Trot (1609m) and Mimosa Homes Trot (2100m). respectively. Up-and-coming star Majestuoso was brilliant in winning the Hygain Melton Trotters Free For All (2100m) at Group 3 level, while South Australian raider Brantley blew many quaddie punters out of the water with victory at fixed odds of $101 in the Waste Sense Pace (2100m). Driver Chris Alford and trainer Brent Lilley combined for success with Queen Elida and I Cast No Shadow, with reinswoman Tayla French bookending the meeting with Azza and Chapter One. Tim O’Connor

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