Star Weekly - Northern - 30th November 2021 by Star Weekly

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30 NOVEMBER, 2021

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Splash into summer fun Summer just got cooler, with the opening of a water play splash pad at the Whittlesea Swim Centre. The new attraction at the Walnut Street centre features water play equipment aimed at keeping kids entertained all day long. Council chair administrator Lydia Wilson said it was wonderful to see the community able to enjoy leisure facilities, following lengthy COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions. “With COVID restrictions now easing, it’s wonderful to see our community enjoying council’s leisure facilities again,” Ms Wilson said. “Whittlesea Swim Centre provides the young and young-at-heart with hours of fun-filled water play and the new splash pad is the perfect place for a family adventure this summer.” The water play zone includes a giant tipping bucket, umbrellas, water cannons, and a water slide for young residents. The upgrade for the centre was delivered by Whittlesea council with the support of the state government’s Growing Suburbs Fund. Details: whittleseaswimcentre.com.au Fynn enjoying the new water play splash pad.

(Supplied)

Michaela Meade

Demand for support soars Families struggling to make ends meet this Christmas have been reaching out to welfare agencies for support since October, with one gift program booking out in just one week. Welfare agencies and support services across Whittlesea and Hume have reported a surge in inquiries from people in need of financial help ahead of Christmas, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A Whittlesea Community Connections spokesperson said there there had been an

“unbelievably” big increase in the number of people looking for support from the organisation. “There’s been a significant increase in people seeking help,” the spokesperson said. “And it’s all across Melbourne, it doesn’t matter where you’re from. “Anecdotally, you’re looking at probably double the amount [of people compared to pre-pandemic].” The spokesperson said the past 18 months has had a detrimental effect on the community, with people from varied backgrounds needing help “more than ever”.

However, the spokesperson said there are many people and businesses in the community offering support, including Whittlesea township’s Parker’s Auto Plus “They’re running a toy drive,” the spokesperson said. “We’re expecting between 300 and 600 brand new toys to be donated. “Donating toys means kids wake up with presents on Christmas morning. “It can make such a difference.” Whittlesea City Salvos Corps captain Susan Lamotte said there was a “definite” need in the community for more support. She said the

Salvos’ Christmas service – offering presents and gift cards – was in high demand. The program was booked out within a week of opening, Ms Lamotte said. “We had people inquiring as early as October,” she said. “We’re trying our best … our budget was cut by half. “It doesn’t stretch very far, but we’ve tried to do the same amount to support the community as best we can.” Parker’s Auto Plus’ toy drive is accepting donations between 8am and 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday.

ZIEBELL’S FARMHOUSE MUSEUM & HERITAGE GARDENS This local gem tells the story of the establishment of Westgarthtown in the 1850s, now Thomastown and Lalor. See our ﬁrst rose planted in the 1860s along with 70 more, many other plants, heritage buildings and exhibitions. Cnr Gardenia Drive & Ainwick Cres, Thomastown Sunday 11.30 am–3 pm Tuesday 11:30 am–2 pm Adults $3 Children 50 cents

Find us on Facebook www.westgarthtown.org.au

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By Michaela Meade

NEW KFC EPPING DTO NOW OPEN!

EXP 28/12/21. Available at KFC Epping DTO, and participating stores. See terms and conditions below.

Lot 3 - 251 Oherns Rd, Epping. Valid at participating KFC stores only. For meals that include chicken pieces, set combinations apply. Food for illustration purposes only. *Saving is based on full menu price. Limit of one coupon per customer visit. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Surrender coupon to redeem offer.

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2 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

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NEWS

Infrastructure in the spotlight By Michaela Meade Hume mayor Carly Moore has welcomed a report calling for more support for important infrastructure in growth areas. The Infrastructure Victoria (IV) report, released this month, recommended ways the Victorian government can support the state’s growth areas. These include providing equitable access to housing with both new and low-income housing, funding libraries and aquatic recreation centres, and building new hospital capacity.

Cr Moore said she welcomed any and all investment in the Hume region, to provide for the growing need in the area. “We have lots to do, and council can’t do it alone,” Cr Moore said. “We’re always happy to see more money going into projects for the community. “With so many people moving here, we can’t do it by ourselves.” Planning and development director Michael Sharp said the council supported the “important social infrastructure” recommendations in the report. He said access to high quality health care

was a priority for the community. “The scale of population growth in Hume requires increased capacity both on existing health care and hospital facilities, and in new facilities within our growth areas,” he said. According to the report’s modelling, people will be looking to work from home more often, which could mean living further away from the workplace. Mr Sharp said this was not the case for the casual and labour workforce prominent in Hume. He said work typically undertaken by Hume residents was not “well suited” for

working from home, but that the council “continually seeks to attract new businesses and job opportunities in a range of economic sectors that provide new and flexible options for residents close to home”. Mr Sharp said the council had adopted strategies and policies to allow for projects in the community, such as diverse housing, to come to fruition. This included the Housing Diversity Strategy and the Affordable Housing Policy, he said.

Councillor calls out rubbish dump disgrace

Louise Bayley was awarded the Early Childhood Teacher of the Year award.

(Damjan Janevski) 258035

Teacher ‘in shock’ at top award Kalkallo Preschool teacher Louise Bayley was “surprised and very flattered” about being awarded the Early Childhood Teacher of the Year award. The award is part of the 2021 Victorian Early Years Awards, which recognise and celebrate the work of Victoria’s early childhood education sector. Ms Bayley was honoured for her work in promoting cultural understanding, equality and diversity and building strong partnerships with families, and tailoring learning environments and supports to

improve children’s and families’ health and wellbeing. Ms Bayley said she had been nominated by the family of a child she cares for – which meant more to her than the award itself. “It’s so comforting to know that we’ve still been able to, throughout COVID-19 and everything else, make a difference,” she said. “We involve parents as much as we can in the service, so that it’s meaningful to them and for them. “The award is overwhelming, I’m still in a bit of shock.”

Ms Bayley said the team of co-educators that she works with were instrumental at the preschool in providing the quality service. “I really value the other staff,” she said. “I want to recognise them … it’s very much a team effort.” Ms Bayley said she was excited to explore the professional development opportunities that the award afforded her. Michaela Meade

A Hume councillor has called out people illegally dumping rubbish after a sizeable pile of hard rubbish was left outside the Salvation Army in Craigieburn. Cr Jim Overend shared photographs of the rubbish pile on social media last week. “The Salvation Army in Craigieburn is not a dumping ground for your rubbish,” Cr Overend said in the post. At the weekend, Cr Overend took to his social media to report that the rubbish had been cleared, and that higher security would be implemented. “The rubbish … has now been removed and some evidence of the offenders have been found,” Cr Overend said in the post. “CCTV cameras will now be installed as well as signage.” It follows a mountain of rubbish – 40 cubic metres – being removed from Highlander Drive in Craigieburn earlier this year. Hume council sustainable infrastructure and services director Peter Waite said there was “no excuse” for dumped rubbish around the municipality. “In the 2020-21 financial year, there were 19,188 registered hard rubbish collections – this equated to a total volume of 2,872 cubic metres of hard rubbish removed,” he said. “In line with encouraging our community to take responsibility for disposing of their rubbish correctly, council undertook a major dumped rubbish and waste services campaign this year. “Council will consider how it can implement this pilot campaign in other parts of Hume in the future.” Illegally dumped rubbish can be reported online. Michaela Meade

Rate arrears hit $38 million as debt continues to climb The amount of money Hume residents owe to council has increased due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but council will not be waiving any rates. At a council meeting earlier this month, a report on rate arrears was tabled which revealed the total value of outstanding rates was $38.16 million as at September 30, 2021. According to the report, this was an increase on the previous year, with a total rate value of $36.53 million outstanding, as at September 30, 2020. The report also revealed the number of households in the municipality with

COVID-19 pandemic payment arrangements. Craigieburn had the highest number, with 549 arrangements still active. Mickleham (252), Sunbury (231), Greenvale (208) and Roxburgh Park (155) were also in the top five suburbs for arrangements. Despite the hardships endured by the Hume community over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, mayor Carly Moore said the council would provide flexible payment options for residents, not waivers. “Council has implemented a range of relief initiatives to support our community during this challenging time as part of its $11.5

million COVID-19 Stimulus Package,” Cr Moore said. “Council’s support has included flexible payment arrangement options, an interest freeze on outstanding rates balances since March 1, 2020 and a $50 rates waiver for approximately 50,000 eligible residential and rural ratepayers on their primary residences in 2020-21.” Cr Moore said the council also offered a deferral of rates to a later payment date for struggling residents. “We encourage residents and businesses to contact us directly to discuss how we can

support them,” she said. “Council will continue to review and consider any further measures that will continue to support our community, particularly as we head towards economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.” It comes as neighbouring council, Whittlesea, earlier this month adopted further fee waivers for the community, incurring a loss of more than $450,000 in the 2021-22 financial year. Michaela Meade Tuesday, 30 November, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 3

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4 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

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NEWS

Yan Yean MP Green steps aside By Michaela Meade Yan Yean MP Danielle Green will not be seeking re-election in 2022. Ms Green has held the seat for Yan Yean since 2002 and served the community for close to two decades. Ms Green said that like many people, the COVID-19 pandemic had made her think about the things most important to her. For her, that is her family. Ms Green took leave earlier this year to care for her husband, amid health problems, but said that wasn’t sustainable.

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I’ve learned so much … I’m richer for having had this job - Danielle Green

’’

“I want to be in a job post-parliament … that I can say ‘look, I’ve got to go to hospital’ and be off for some time,” Ms Green said. “That’s not something you can really do as a parliament member. “You can’t say to 60,000 people, ‘I’ll get back to you later’.

“The people of Yan Yean deserve better.” Ms Green said when she ends her term come November next year, she can say she has no regrets. “The electorate, it’s changed so much over the past 20 years,” she said. “It’s changed me too. “I’ve learned so much … I’m richer for having had this job.” Ms Green said career highlights included the opening of over 10 new schools and “dozens of upgrades” for others, the opening of Mernda station and extension of the South Morang rail line, community sporting

club evolutions, including women’s sport becoming more prominen, having two Royal Commissions – family violence, and mental health – and seeing the outcomes from the reports, and upgrades to police and fire stations in the area. “Seeing all that come to fruition … there’s nothing more satisfying,” she said. “There’s not too many jobs that you’d feel that kind of satisfaction.” Ms Green said she hoped her successor in the role has similar values to her own, and connects and makes themselves available to the community.

Enjoying the stre-eatery A unique eating experience has parked at Craigieburn Central, with the opening of the ‘Stre-eatery’. Vendor’s food trucks are set up in Central Lane at the centre for visitors to enjoy a selection of treats and nibbles. Food options include ice cream, fairy floss, tacos, ‘sip & dip’ mocktails, waffles and crepes, and Indian food. Craigieburn Central centre manager Christine McDonnell said the offerings were aimed at being exciting and enticing for shoppers. “We are excited to welcome our new Stre-eatery activation to Craigieburn Central and look forward to seeing the dynamic mix of operators evolve over coming months,” Ms McDonnell said. “As the centre gets busier in the lead up to the holiday season, it’s perfect timing for our customers to come and enjoy the new additions

and the vibrancy and choice they have brought to Craigieburn Central.” The activation is set to continue through the summer months and holiday season, with vendors set to “evolve” during the time. The evolution of the vendors will mean the introduction of new cuisines, offering customers continual choice, including a vegan option coming soon. The Stre-eatery activation can be found at the centre in Central Lane, opposite United Cinemas. Vendors will operate from noon until 9pm daily. Michaela Meade

Stre-eatery vendors Rajvir, Peter, Yusef and Bhupinder. (Damjan Janevski) 258110_02

CITY OF WHITTLESEA PRESENTS

A FREE in person and online event celebrating our cultural diversity

FRIDAY

DECEMBER

7.30PM GATES OPEN FROM 6PM

arts.whittlesea.vic.gov.au Terrace Lawn, 25 Ferres Blvd South Morang 12524718-DL49-21

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THE CRAIGIEBURN

Summer

COVID SAFE EVENT

CARNIVAL 25 NOV – 11 DEC 2021 CRAIGIEBURN CENTRAL SHOPPING CENTRE* Come along and enjoy Dodgems Cars, Skyflyer, Ghost Train, Tea Cups, Jumping Castles, Sizzler, Pirates Nest Fun Factory, Dumbo Elephants, Wacky Coaster and more. Fireworks every Friday and Saturday night. For more information visit smartamusements.com.au/craigieburn

OPENING HOURS Thursday 25th Nov: 6pm – 9pm Friday 26th Nov: 6pm – 9pm Saturday 27th Nov: 10am – 1.30pm and 2pm – 5.30pm, 6pm – 9pm Sunday 28th Nov: 10am – 1.30pm and 2pm – 5.30pm Thursday 2nd Dec: 6pm – 9pm Friday 3rd Dec: 6pm – 9pm

$3 ENTRY PER PERSON SECURE YOUR SPOT! Book your entry tickets now at www.smartamusements.com.au/craigieburn Wristbands must be pre purchased from www.smartamusements.com.au

Saturday 4th Dec: 10am – 1.30pm and 2pm – 5.30pm, 6pm – 9pm Sunday 5th Dec: 10am – 1.30pm and 2pm – 5.30pm Thursday 9th Dec: 6pm – 9pm Friday 10th Dec: 6pm – 9pm Saturday 11th Dec: 10am – 1.30pm and 2pm – 5.30pm, 6pm – 9pm

*Closing times may vary - subject to weather and crowd numbers. Dates and times may vary on some days within this period, please see www.smartamusements.com.au or Smart Amusements facebook page for details.

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Team’s tick of approval By Michaela Meade The Whittlesea Youth Services team is celebrating a colourful achievement, having gained Rainbow Tick accreditation. Rainbow Health Victoria – which owns and developed the accreditation – supports the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and gender diverse, intersex, queer and asexual (LGBTQIA+) community’s health and wellbeing through research and knowledge translation, training, resources, policy advice and service accreditation.

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We want our young people ... to feel seen, supported and included

’’

- Peita Duncan The Rainbow Tick is a framework that helps organisations demonstrate that they are safe, inclusive and affirming services and employers for the diverse community. The Youth Services team is one of the first local government youth services to achieve Rainbow Tick accreditation, according to Whittlesea council. Whittlesea administrator Peita Duncan said it was a “proud achievement” that showed the council’s commitment to creating socially cohesive communities. “We want our young people, no matter their sexual orientation or gender, to feel seen, supported and included, and the Rainbow Tick accreditation is another example of our efforts in supporting and celebrating diversity in the City of Whittlesea,” Ms Duncan said. “Rainbow Tick accreditation affirms our pledge to young people and the community

Kristy, Sabrina, Hans, Carol, and Alberto from the Whittlesea Youth service team.

(Damjan Janevski)

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that they have a right to access council services which are safe and welcoming to all.” The Rainbow Tick is designed to support organisations to improve the quality of services they provide to LGBTQIA+ service users, staff and volunteers. The accreditation is designed to “build lasting inclusion”. Accreditation is provided by independent assessment by Quality Innovation Performance

and Australian Council on Healthcare Standards. Services can include the Rainbow Tick standards as part of their cycle of service accreditation, or can choose to complete the Rainbow Tick as a standalone assessment subject to ongoing reassessment and quality improvement. Details: www.rainbowhealthvic.org.au/ rainbow-tick

NEWS

Movies that make a splash URBNSURF Melbourne surf park is welcoming the community to a poolside outdoor cinema series. The facility in Tullamarine is holding screenings of surf-themed films, aimed at getting the community to kick back, relax, and enjoy the movies while the night surfing continues. Customer and events manager Angus Johnston said the organisation was excited to start the series and welcome people back to the centre after COVID-19 lockdowns. “URBNSURF are really looking forward to launching into a jam-packed summer event schedule with the upcoming six-night Outdoor Cinema Series,” he said. “The series provides a unique poolside cinematic experience and is a great way for us to re-engage with the local community. “The event is open for all in-park guests throughout the afternoon, kicking off from 2pm each day with cold beers, world-class food and cocktails, and a DJ spinning tunes.” The screening series will include surf films such as ‘Point Break’ on Friday, December 3, and Friday, December 10, ‘The Endless Summer’ on Saturday, December 4, and ‘Reckless Isolation’ on Saturday, December 11. Food and beverages will be served at each event from 2pm, with each screening commencing at 8.30pm. Tickets are $30 for general admission, and $15 for general admission. Details: urbnsurf.com/outdoorcinema-series

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NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU Briefs

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Map full of discoveries Whittlesea residents will be encouraged to explore their own backyards thanks to a new map of the area’s historical sites. The ‘50 Sites of Significance’ map reveals sites including a castle, a reservoir that was once the envy of Melbourne, and troughs where thirsty horses once watered in the 1900s. Whittlesea Historical Society co-president Neil Johnson said the Whittlesea municipality was rich in post-colonial historic sites, including the Yan Yean Reservoir. “I think a lot of people aren’t aware that in its day, when it was commissioned, it was the largest man-made water storage facility in the southern hemisphere, and Melbourne at the time was the envy of the world with its water system because our forefathers had good foresight,” Mr Johnson said. “I think the map is a great initiative – it’s another way to showcase parts of our history,

The Kilmore International School 40 White Street, Kilmore, Victoria, 3764 W kilmore.vic.edu.au T 03 5782 2211 E enquiries@kilmore.vic.edu.au ABN 21 083 505 131 CRICOS 00671E

and it’s a fairly diverse history.” Chair administrator Lydia Wilson said the map would uncover a variety of “hidden gems” spread across Whittlesea, and the stories behind them. “You might think the City of Whittlesea’s buildings aren’t that old, given all the new housing developments, but we have built heritage dating back to the 1800s,” Ms Wilson said. “The new map is a great tool for helping you to get out and explore your own backyard and learn about its built cultural heritage.” The ‘50 Sites of Significance’ is available in an interactive online version, and in print in libraries and community centres. Details: www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/ culturalheritage Michaela Meade

Two Craigieburn men have been charged following an investigation into the importation of drugs by a Malaysian syndicate. Search warrants were executed at two residential properties in Craigieburn and a business in Epping last week. Police said they seized cash, illegal tobacco and a rolling machine, cartons of cigarettes, methylamphetamine, an imitation firearm, credit/debit cards in various names and a money counting machine. A 26-year-old Craigieburn man was charged with money laundering offences, bringing an imitation firearm into Victoria, possessing an imitation firearm and possessing proceeds of crime. A 39-year-old Craigieburn man was charged with money laundering and possessing a marketable quantity of border-controlled drug, trafficking a controlled drug and possessing proceeds of crime.

Man charged with Ford thefts Police have busted an alleged crime syndicate targeting the theft and rebirthing of Ford Falcons. Police allege that 34 Ford Falcons, made between 1993 to 1999, were stolen from areas across the northern suburbs. Detectives executed a warrant at an address in Greenvale last week, and seized three allegedly stolen Ford Falcons and arrested a 33-year-old man. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Step toward excellence Enrol now for Year 3 & 4, 2022

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8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

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NEWS

Shining a light on a dark issue By Michaela Meade An increase in the risk of gender-based violence has prompted Hume and Whittlesea councils to mark 16 days of activism against gender based violence. The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an annual global initiative that runs from November 25 until December 10. Hume mayor Carly Moore said the COVID-19 pandemic “exacerbated” gender inequality and increased the risk of gender-based violence.

“Data released by the Crime Statistics Agency in September 2021 shows that Victoria is facing its highest reported rates of family violence in history, with a 11.3 per cent increase in family violence related offences in the year ending 31 March 2021,” Cr Moore said. “Along with facilitating free activities across the 16 days that take a stand against gender-based violence, council is strongly advocating to the state and federal government for ongoing funding and support to deliver programs that address the gendered impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Hume’s calendar of events includes a photo exhibition, a children’s storytime session, and information sessions with presentations from local experts. Whittlesea chair administrator Lydia Wilson said the campaign was important to the community amid high rates of family violence. “We have the highest rate of family violence in the north-east region and through this campaign we want to shine a spotlight on the underlying cause as we work to create a future where all people are safe, equal and respected,” Ms Wilson said. “We know that

gender inequality is a key driver of violence against women, and some of the priority actions council is taking includes developing the leadership capacity of underrepresented women and advocating for increased access to specialist family violence services.” Whittlesea has partnered with Whittlesea Community Connections and DPV Health to present its events, including a walk against family violence, a youth art showcase, and a dedicated Facebook page. Details: www.hume.vic.gov.au/16days, whittlesea.vic.gov.au/genderequity

Youths tell a good yarn Two Hume residents are among the winners of the 2021 Takeover Melbourne storytelling competition. The competition showcases young storytellers from across Melbourne. Rudra Sekhri from South Morang and Bill Teuma from Craigieburn were among the 29 winners, with their stories set to be featured on the ABC. Mr Sekhri, whose story was about his journey as an astronomer, said he was “extremely surprised and excited” to have his story chosen. “Personally, I feel extremely grateful for the community around me that has supported me throughout all these years and helped me develop as an individual,” he said. “Thanks to their support, I’ve been able to share my passion of astronomy [with] the rest of Australia and some of the concerns I have on the future of astronomy. “As an astronomer working with researchers

from the Swinburne University of Technology, I really wanted to share this story, and light pollution is something I was really inspired about.” Mr Sekhri said it was important for other young people to get their messages they care about out into the community. “Raise your story, no matter how big or how small, as it might inspire others around you and bring together a community,” he said. Mr Teuma’s story was about his school experience. He said the win was “an honour that feels unreal to me“. Details: abc.net.au/takeover Michaela Meade Rudra Sekhri and Bill Teuma (inset) are among the winners of the 2021 Takeover Melbourne storytelling competition. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski and supplied) 259138_06

Print and Online Sales Executive Star Weekly Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms. Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future. The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. Sales skills/experience: • Ability to maintain existing professional relationships and to create new ones • Ability to meet defined sales and activity targets • Excellent listening skills • Accuracy and attention to detail • Effective time management to meet deadlines • Ability to operate in a team • Demonstrates initiative and flexibility • Effective oral and written communication Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Mandy Clark Group Advertising Sales Manager mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

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Tuesday, 30 November, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 9

COMMENT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

A strong education foundation Lily D’Ambrosio, Mil Park MP The first five years of children’s lives are crucial to their development. During this period, children learn at a faster rate than at any other time in their lives, developing basic cognitive and socio-emotional skills that are fundamental for their future achievements in school and later on as an adult. These skills are also the foundation for their general wellbeing – how they cope with future successes and setbacks, professionally and in their personal lives. For this reason, and in recognition of the importance of early childhood education the Andrews Labor government, in an Australian first, is introducing universal funded three-year-old kindergarten across Victoria. In 2022 families in Mill Park will have access to five hours a week of funded three-year-old kinder. This will be progressively scaled up to the full 15-hours per week program by 2029. To make sure that our local kinders have the appropriate facilities and resources to offer quality programs to every child in Mill Park, this past year alone we have invested almost $3.8 million to build new kinders, upgrade existing ones and to help them deliver high quality and inclusive programs that make the most of every minute that our children are playing and learning. In addition, we also supported over 25 local kinders with IT and inclusive equipment grants. As well as improving educational performance across the whole system, increasing access to quality kindergarten programs also ensures greater equity. It supports all children, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to learn and thrive. Having kindergarten facilities on or next to

Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio at the Mill Park Heights Childcare Centre during the official opening of the centre’s outdoor space upgrade.

primary school sites, or ‘co-locating’, makes it easier for families to access kindergarten programs, makes drop-off time simpler for parents, and can contribute to a smoother transition from kindergarten to school for children. That’s why we made sure that our new Wollert Primary School, opening in a couple of months, will have a kindergarten on its grounds. I am also happy to announce that we are building a brand new kinder next to Meadowglen Primary School in Epping –

offering 66 approved places when it opens in 2023. And just to make the start of kinder a tiny bit more exciting for every child starting three-year-old kinder, when they start, they’ll get one new Kinder Kit too. The Kinder Kits are specially-designed and are being created to complement kinder learning by offering fun and creative activities to encourage family engagement in the child’s education and promote awareness of the benefits of continued learning at home.

(Supplied)

And, last but not least, the roll-out of our three-year-old funded kinder is also going to create more jobs with some of them right here in the Mill Park electorate. It is estimated that as the program expands across Victoria more than 4000 additional kindergarten teachers and 2000 additional early childhood educators will be needed. Please remember that I am here to support you, whenever you need. Feel free to contact me via email at lily.d’ambrosio@parliament. vic.gov.au or call on 9422 5171.

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re removing 85 dangerous and congested level crossings, with 54 already gone. We’re also continuing works to prepare for major construction on North East Link. Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Mernda Line

Hurstbridge Line

Until 2 Dec

Parliament or Clifton Hill to Reservoir

10 to 13 Dec 3 to 9 Jan

Parliament to Reservoir

10 to 13 Dec 3 to 9 Jan

Parliament to Heidelberg

SPA6951

Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes Bell Street, Preston

9pm to 5am each night, 7 to 10 Dec

Closed at the level crossing

Greensborough Road

At times in Dec

Lanes closed

Bulleen Road

At times in Dec

Lanes closed

Eastern Freeway

Some nights in Dec

Lanes closed

Find out if you’re affected at bigbuild.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

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BEHIND THE NEWS

Young soccer stars of the future Four budding sports stars from Melbourne’s west will make their mark at the School Sport Victoria competition later this week. The up and coming soccer players will represent the state in the 12 and under boys’ and girls’ teams. Tara Murray and Molly Magennis spoke to the youngsters to find out what making the squads meant to them.

t Augustine’s Primary School pupil Irena Razumic has ticked off one of her goals in making the School Sport Victoria 12 and under soccer team. The Keilor resident and her teammates will travel to Sydney this week to compete against teams from across Australia in the Sydney International Cup. The competition will be at Cromer Park Sports Complex from Friday, December 3, to Sunday, December 5. Irena was selected after two training days, one in Ballarat and one in Darebin. “I’m really excited,” she says. “I really wanted to make the team. It was one of my goals. It was something I really wanted.” Irena has been playing soccer since she was six years old, with her mother Susan saying she had good ball skills and wasn’t into girly things like dancing. Irena says she is looking forward to the challenge of competing in Sydney. “I want to play well and have fun,” she says. “I want to make new friends. We have had two training sessions together and it’s been fun. “I think it will be really special. Hopefully we can do well and if we win.”

‘‘

Up and coming soccer players Analise Petersen (main), Leyla Hussein (below left), Robert Kutlesa and Irena Razumic.

I can’t really describe it, it just makes me feel happy, it’s like my freedom

’’

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski and supplied)

- Analise Petersen Irena, who says her running ability is her strength, likes to play in the midfield and a little bit of defence. Her idols are Australian star Ellie Carpenter and Luka Modri. The Calder United young gun, who will attend Maribyrnong Sports College next year, has big aims for the future. “I want to play for Australia.” Joining Irena in the squad is Maribyrnong College student Analise Petersen. The 12-year-old says she wasn’t expecting to be selected. “When I first found out that I got in, I was very emotional. “There’s new people that I haven’t met before so that’s good, and going to Sydney is very exciting.” Analise started playing soccer in 2016 and loves how the sport makes her feel. “I can’t really describe it, it just makes me feel happy, it’s like my freedom,” she says. The young sports star says she would definitely love to play soccer professionally, and looks up to Matilda players Ellie Carpenter and Hayley Raso. “I think [Ellie Carpenter] is a really strong player. “I feel like she’s a bit underrated, she’s such a great player.” The competition will mark the first time Analise has traveled interstate to play. “I’m so excited and I can’t wait for it.” Maribyrnong Sports Academy student Leyla Hussein is also making the journey to Sydney. “I am ... excited to play interstate against some of the best girls,” she says. “I am so happy I made the team.” She says she loves everything about soccer, from training and playing matches with all her teammates to scoring goals on the field. Aussie Matilda stars Sam Kerr and Ellie Carpenter are among her favourite players. “Everyone says I look and play like [Sam Kerr]. She is amazing on and off the field,” Leyla says. Leyla’s ultimate dream is to play in England and to represent Australia on the world stage. She was also selected for the National Training Centre (NTC) squad for the

upcoming 2022 season. The NTC is a full-time training program with the aim to help talented players progress through to achieve NPLW, W-league, National and International representation. “[It’s] another step closer to achieving my goals of playing for the Matildas,” she says. “I am also really excited about that.” Representing Victoria in the 12 and under boys team is Altona’s Robert Kutlesa. The St Leo the Great pupil plays for St Albans Saints and admits he is a bit nervous about the tournament. The 11-year-old has been playing soccer since he was three years old. “[I feel] very honoured and excited to go to

Sydney and play with the Victorian team,” he says . Robert’s favourite thing about playing football is his teammates, particularly those ones at St. Albans, because “we’ve been together for so long.” With favorite players like legend Lionel Messi, and Socceroos player Aaron Mooy, it’s no surprise Robert would love to play soccer professionally one day. As an added challenge, he will be competing with boys above his age group, although he’s not worried about that at all. “I feel good because I’m surrounded by kids that might be a bit better than me because of the age difference, and I feel strong playing in

an older group,” he says. Marijana, Robert’s mother, agrees and says his two older brothers have prepared him well for this occasion. “He’s never let them push him around, so playing above his age group, I think … he’s confident in that space. His brothers have trained him well.” She says this amazing opportunity will be excellent exposure for her son. “Because these boys have been playing in their respective teams for a long time, you sort of get used to seeing what’s in Victoria, so we’re really looking forward to seeing what the teams are like more broadly across Australia,” she says. Tuesday, 30 November, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 11

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Craft Market On Saturday, December 4, from 10am-2pm, there will be a craft market at Bridgewater Lake, 9 Wedgewood Road, Roxburgh Park. Items available for purchase include homemade and crafted items, great Christmas gift ideas, Devonshire teas. Free entry and car parking. ■ Peter, 0419 028 518

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Circus Royale aerialist Lily Maglaras. (Damjan Janevski) 258914_01

Whittlesea Christmas carols Whittlesea council is holding its 2021 carols as a live event at Terrace Lawn, Civic Centre, and will also livestream the event on Friday, December 10. Gates open 6pm, show from 7.30pm. ■ https://bit.ly/3kZFEqW

Waste community conversations Hume council is consulting with the community to guide its Hume Waste Strategy. The sessions will be held on Wednesday, December 1, and Thursday, December 2, from 7-8pm. The event is free and registration is encouraged. ■ https://bit.ly/3odmzm2

Exploring healthier masculinities Hume council is hosting a free range of activities to support the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. The event will be held from 7-8pm on Wednesday, December 8. ■ https://bit.ly/3BZtbJG

Nutrition education Hume council has partnered with OzHarvest to bring its Nest program to Hume, where you can learn cooking skills in a friendly, fun and supportive way. The session is free and will run from 10am-noon on Monday, December 13. ■ https://bit.ly/3DmikuM

view for free, and are presented by Hume Arts Youth Award 2020 recipient, Filipe Filihia. ■ https://bit.ly/3BTguQl

Live music in Macedon Macedon Railway Hotel will welcome back guests to Annie Hall next year with gigs booked from January through to May. Head to the hotel’s website to secure your spot. ■ macedonrailwayhotel.com.au/live-shows

Toastmasters meeting Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Toastmasters helps its members develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.20-9.30pm, at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Hall. ■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Sewing group The Sunbury Neighbourhood 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 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

Symbiosis exhibition This stark series of photographs that explore the relationship between a mother and daughter, against deeper themes of death and regeneration in nature is available to view until Saturday, January 15, 2022. The series of images are available to 12 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

Women’s group Duke Street Community Centre is setting up a women’s social group to give people a place to interact. The group will run every second Friday, as a way to connect with other women in the community in a safe, fun and social way. It will be developed to suit the needs of the participants and will be in a casual setting. ■ 9311 9973

Female cricket Burnside Springs United is looking for players for its women’s program for the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association season. A friendly and welcoming environment, the club welcomes all abilities and ages. The side trains on Thursday nights and plays on Sundays. ■ ow.ly/WRGg50GCXrC

win a grocery voucher. A Be Connected short online course can help you learn the basics such as using a mouse, setting up and understanding the functions of an iPhone or Android phone, avoiding scams, connecting with others, or sending an email. The competition runs to December 1. ■ library@brimbank.vic.gov.au

BinGO MOVE BinGO MOVE is a social exercise group which meets every Monday at 11am. It involves a fun interactive game where bingo numbers trigger an exercise or dance move. Activity suits all levels of ability, you can do seated or standing as suits. Currently running via Zoom, IPC Health will also offer face-to-face groups in Hoppers Crossing, when restrictions permit. ■ 8734 1400

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

AL-ANON meets 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

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.

Sunshine United Cricket Club Selwyn Park-based Sunshine United Cricket Club is looking for junior boys and girls to play in its under-11s, under-13s Friday night and under-15s Saturday morning teams. Juniors learn and enjoy the fundamentals of cricket, taught by experienced coaches. ■ Terry Nichols, 0418 392 180

Fibro/CFS Support

Be connected

Love Our Street 3029

Brimbank residents over the age of 50 are encouraged to complete two Be Connected beginner online courses for their chance to

Come join the volunteer community litter clean-up crew in Hoppers Crossing, which meets on the third Sunday of the month,

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

10.30am-noon. Karen, 3029@loveourstreet.com.au

■

Dads’ playgroup Tarneit Community Learning Centre hosts a dads’ playgroup every week on Thursdays. The morning starts at 9.30am and promises to be a chance for male caregivers to connect with each other and form new friendships. ■ Shaun, 0455 521 154

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

Heritage walks Enjoy a leisurely two-hour walk around historic Williamstown and nearby suburbs with guide John. Walks start at 9.20am each Tuesday outside the Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place. ■ John, 0418 377 336

Musicians welcome Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join their community band.Rehearsals are held under the directorship of Wayne Bowden every Monday from 7.30pm at the Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newpor. Visitors and interested musicians any age most welcome. ■ Roger Lewis, hbcityband@gmail.com or www.hbcb.org.au

Baby settling Hobsons Bay Council is offering a free Baby Settling Course to provide tips for getting a good night’s sleep for your baby and you. Parents can sign up for an online group session for ages 0 to 6 months, 6 to 12 months, and 18 months to two years. ■ hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/MCH

Altona North combined probus The Altona North combined probus club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere. ■ Lesley, 0414 481 442

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Full steam ahead

Graeme Precious , Kris Siderov, Brian

Parkinson and Allen Williams.

(Damjan Janevski)

225913_04

Hard line on tow n

By Laura Michell

The Bulla Hill Railway is back on track for 2021. The railway’s last run day was in March 2020 before the COVID-1 a stop to public events. 9 pandemic put Railway committee member Kris Siderov said member s couldn’t visit the railway during lockdow n. “When we finally got we found weeds across given the all clear, the tracks … so we’ve been slowly cleaning up and trying to reduce the amount of weeding.” The miniature train day of the year last had it’s first run month. Mr Siderov said the railway was missed by the community. “We had a good run day in January and everyone was really good and helpful with signing in,” he said. “It was a really pleasan t day to come back to everything.” To ensure a COVIDS afe environment, passengers are required to sign in and to bring a mask. There are also limits on the number of people allowed The Bulla Hill Railway on site. operates on the third Sunday of each run day is on Sunday,month. The next Februar Details: facebook.com/B y 21. ullaHillRailway

growth

12473232-FA03-21

in increasing pressure A “hard” urban growth boundary to support to extend the town be to put a hard additional residenti Whittlesea township boundary around the developm al around the townshipurban growth boundary was ent. required to acquire by the state governm should be considered to make sure any “The absence of an land for the woodlan development or redevelo future ent to better manage “To date no land d. future growth and pment can be managed around the township urban growth boundary appropri … has been secured development, accordin ately.” or acquisition processe has resulted in a Whittlesea council. g to of uncertai sense s commenced,” nty within the The council’s submissi submission stated. the As part of its on also called on and some land use speculat local community state governm submission to the the “Securing the [Grassy ent to ion/land banking government’s Planning state around the Eucalypt Woodlan to create 1200 hectareshonour its commitment investiga d] tion area will Wedge and Agricult for Melbourne’s Green the submissi perimeter around the township,” not municipality’s green of woodland within the biodiver on stated. sity assets and safeguar only protect council has urged the ural Land Review, the wedge. Council planning d government to investiga Known the landscap qualities for Whittles as the Grassy Eucalypt and development director applying an urban te Justin O’Meara ea’s green wedges but e Woodlan the reserve is the growth boundary also result of a 2010 state d, help to … manage the urban-ru around that township told last week’s council meeting the township, which federal government is currently zoned ral interface by and residents had raised as green an urban wedge land. agreement to protect introducing a permanent and function the need for areas growth boundary of environmental al buffer to the urban growth to be applied. The council said areas.” “They would like potentially impacted significance that were the Mr O’Meara said to see growth growth boundary aroundabsence of an urban developm by the expansion the council would and urban growth ent within the of the a meeting the town had resulted seek boundary around township managed and one Melbourne D’Ambro with Environment Minister Lily way of achieving that better that year. sio about the status of the woodlan would Under the agreeme d. nt, the state governm ent ■ Home buyers head north: Page 8-9

Pick up your FREE newspaper from these local outlets... • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Broadmeadows Country Supermarket 7 Olsen Place Broadmeadows IGA Friendly Supermarket 10 Olsen Place Broadmeadows Broadmeadows Newsagency 21 Olsen Place Broadmeadows Milk Bar - Broadmeadows 23 Olsen Place Broadmeadows Broadmeadows Central SC 1099 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Coles Supermarket 1099-1169 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Woolworths Supermarket 1099-1169 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Nextra Lotto & News 10991169 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Phil - Asian Grocery Business 16 Railway Crescent Bundoora Foodworks Bundoora 1 Andrew Place Bundoora Andrews Place Milk Bar 4 Andrew Place Bundoora Frank Milk Bar 19 Balaka Place Bundoora Good & More Asian Grocery 6/42 Copernicus Crescent Bundoora Bundoora Fruit Market, Uni Hill Town Centre, Janefield Drive Bundoora Mr Asian Grocer 1 Janefield Drive Bundoora Uni Factory Outlets 2 Janefield Drive Bundoora Uni Hill Town Centre 5 Janefield Drive Bundoora RMIT Campus Store Building 202 Level 2, Plenty Road Bundoora Gugu Asian Grocery 3803/43 Plenty Road Bundoora Woolworths Supermarket 69-85 Plenty Road Bunndora Shell Service Station 127-133 Plenty Road Bundoora Coles Supermarket Summerhill 850 Plenty Road Bundoora Caltex Woolworths Service Station 959-969 Plenty Road Bundoora BP Service Station 1050 Plenty Road Bundoora Polaris 3083 Shopping Centre 1056 Plenty Road Bundoora Woolworths Polaris Cnr Plenty Rd & Nain Drive Bundoora Coles Supermarket Bundoora Sq SC Settlement Rd

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Campbellfield Chris and Marie’s 1477 Sydney Road Campbellfield Barry Road Milk Bar 331 Barry Road Coolaroo Meadow Heights Newsagency Shop 16, 55 Paringa Boulevard Coolaroo Melba Vale Country Club 1390 Pascoe Vale Road Craigieburn Craigieburn Convenience Store 19 Bank Street Craigieburn Hume City Council 75-95 Central Park Avenue Craigieburn Coles Service Station 42-44 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Connections - Craigieburn 59 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Craigieburn Central Shopping Centre 340 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Harry Brown Liquor G03/420-440 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn The Foodary Caltex 420-440 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Freshplus Craigieburn 420-440 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket 10 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Coles Supermarket Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Windrock Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Aitken Rd Craigieburn Quality Food Store Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Aitken Rd Craigieburn Milk Bar Store 100 Fairways Boulevard Craigieburn Nanak Indian Grocery Highlands SC 300 Grand Boulevard Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket 300 Highlands SC Grand Boulevard Craigieburn Highlands News & Lotto 300 HighlandsSC Grand Boulevard Craigieburn Hothlyn Drive Milk Bar Hothlyn Drive Craigieburn Foodworks 130-132 Hothlyn Drive Craigieburn Caltex 315 Hume Highway Craigieburn Metro Petroluem 330 Hume Highway Craigieburn IGA Xpress Grand Boulevard 27-29 Princes Circuit Craigieburn Moey’s Milk Bar 2 Smeaton Court Doreen TSG Riverstone Convenience Cafe Shop 1/121 Elation Boulevard Doreen Laurimar Centre Newsagency Shop 8, 95 Hazel Glen Drive Doreen Woolworths Supermarket 95 95 Hazel Glen Drive

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Doreen Doreen General Store 920 Yan Yean Road Epping Foodworks 10/351 Dalton Road Epping Pacific Epping Shopping Centre 571583 High Street Epping The Groove Train 571-583 High Street Epping IGA Plus Liquor 1/53 McDonalds Road Epping Greenbrook Milk Bar 2/53 McDonalds Road Gladstone Park Gladstone Park SC 8-34 Gladstone Park Drive Glenroy Pascoe Vale Road Market 815 Pascoe Vale Road Glenroy Glenroy Newsagency 773 Pascoe Vale Drive Greenvale Coles Supermarket 1-11 Greenvale Drive Greenvale Greenvale Newsagency Shop 4, 1 -11 Greenvale Drive Lalor Woolworths Supermarket Hurtle Street Lalor Lalor Library 2A May Road Lalor Dandy Mart 17-19 May Road Lalor No 1 Fruit Market 37 May Road Lalor Coles Supermarket 47-71 May Road Lalor Lalor Plaza Newsagency Shop 22, 17 McKimmies Road Lalor Lalor Plaza Shopping Centre McKimmies Road Lalor Coles Supermarket Lalor SC Cnr McKimmies Road & Darebin Drive Lalor Santino Continental Grocery 296 Station Street Lalor Afghan Supermarket 322 Station Street Lalor Everfresh Fruit Market 346 Station Street Mernda Coles Mernda Mernda Junction SC Cnr Plenty Rd & Bridge Inn Rd Mernda Riverdale General Store 33 Riverdale Boulevard Mernda Mernda Post Office 50 Mernda Village Drive & Galloway Drive Mernda Woolworths Supermarket Mernda Village Drive & Galloway Drive Mill Park Centenary Drive Milk Bar 147 Centenary Drive Mill Park 7 - Eleven Mill Park 252 Childs Rd & Morang Dr Mill Park The Stables Shopping Centre Childs Road Mill Park Grenda Milk Bar Grenda Drive Mill Park Coles Supermarket McDonalds Road Mill Park Westfield Plenty Valley 415 McDonalds Road Mill Park Shriji Supermarket 522 Plenty Road Mill Park Woolworths Shop 8/538 Plenty Road

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Mill Park Rivergum Village Shopping Centre 538 Plenty Road Mill Park Woolworths Supermarket Cnr Redleap Ave & Childs Rd Roxburgh Park Woolworths Supermarket Somerton Road Roxburgh Park Roxburgh Village Shopping Centre 250 Somerton Road South Morang South Morang Milk Bar 15 Gorge Road South Morang Westfield Plenty Valley SC 415 McDonalds Road South Morang North City Accountants 7/545 McDonalds Road South Morang Coles Supermarket Mill Park Lakes, The Lakes Boulevard Thomastown Foodworks 126 Alexander Ave Thomastown Caltex Thomastown Cnr Dalton Road & Wood St Thomastown Thomastown News & Lotto 223 High Street Thomastown Thomastown Library 52 Main Street Thomastown BP Service Station 72 Keon Parade Thomastown APCO Service Station 228-234 Settlement Road Thomastown Shell Service Station 27 Cnr Spencer St & Dalton Rd West Meadows Shell Petrol Station - West Meadows 36 Fawkner Street West Meadows The Old Broadie Milkbar 40 Fawkner Street West Meadows Claudio’s IGA Supermarket 1223 Fawkner Street West Meadows Caltex Petrol Station - West Meadows 227 Mickleham Road Whittlesea Whittlesea Bakery 34 Church Street Whittlesea NewsXpress Whittlesea 45 Church Street Whittlesea Whittlesea Courthouse Information Centre 74 Church Street Whittlesea IGA Supermarket - Whittlesea Shop 2, 22 Church Street University Hill Coles Supermarket Uni Hill 224 Plenty Road University Hill Wollert Wollert Post Office 491 Epping Road Also available from Real Estate Agents everywhere

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Tuesday, 30 November, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 13

PUZZLES No. 057

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.

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

4 3 4

3 4 5 6

ACROSS

easy

QUICK CROSSWORD Resource (5) Social exclusion (9) Arab State (5) Fine ceramic material (9) Put a file online (6) Italian church (8) Candle holders (10) Set (3) Tree (3) Repetition (10) Large marsupial (8) Gardening implement (6) Destroy (9) Chickens, pigeons etc. (5) Brazen (9) Now (5)

1 4 9 10 11 12 14 15 17 19 23 24 26 27 28 29

7 8 13 16 18 19 20 21 22 25

No. 057

Drinking vessel (7) ‘My bad!’ (4) Well-worn (10) Common name for the US (7) Medical technique (7) By hand (8) Voters (10) Submissiveness (8) US state (7) Accomplish (7) Show (7) Camouflaged (7) Meaty (6) Tidings (4)

DOWN Sanctuary (6) Country in Horn of Africa (7)

1 2

DECODER

No. 057

9 6 1 7 2

2 9 6

8 5 5 9 7

7 3

1 9

6 hard

2 5

10 11 12 13

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

B C 18

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: 7 words: Good 11 words: Very good 15 words: Excellent

T O

4 LETTERS BARD GOAT ICES LOGO ONTO PIPE PULP ROBE SEEM SEES SHAM TERM TOGA TWIG 5 LETTERS ABODE

ACUTE AFTIE AGREE ALERT ALGAE ASKEW BLURB CAUSE CHASE CREPT DRESS DUSTY EASES EERIE ERROR GROUP HALES HAVOC INERT IOTAS

No. 057

ISLES LARGE LOINS LOSES MESSY MUSIC OTTER OUTDO PANDA PEACE PETAL PRESS RUINS SCORN SHIRE SKILL SLAVE SPOUT SPRIG TALES

TRILL TRUCE TSARS TWIRL UNTIE 6 LETTERS EASTER MEAGRE PELLET PRIEST 7 LETTERS ADOPTED APPLAUD

AVOCADO BURGLAR DOUBLES OUTGROW 8 LETTERS HABITATS PATIENTS RATTLERS REDIRECT 11 LETTERS CHARISMATIC SWEETHEARTS

adit, anti, dint, doit, idiot, into, iota, nota, onto, oxidant, OXIDATION, taxi, toad, tondo, toxin

3 6 5 2 8 1 4 7 9

1 6 7 9 2 8 5 4 3

5 2 4 6 3 1 9 7 8

9 3 8 4 7 5 6 2 1

4 1 2 3 6 7 8 5 9

3 8 9 1 5 2 7 6 4

6 7 5 8 9 4 3 1 2

8 4 3 7 1 6 2 9 5

2 9 6 5 4 3 1 8 7

7 5 1 2 8 9 4 3 6

4 1 8 7 9 6 3 2 5

7 2 9 5 4 3 6 8 1

8 4 1 9 6 7 2 5 3

2 7 6 8 3 5 1 9 4

9 5 3 4 1 2 8 6 7

6 9 7 1 2 4 5 3 8

5 3 4 6 7 8 9 1 2

1 8 2 3 5 9 7 4 6

1 3 7 5 4 8 2 9 6

6 8 2 9 1 3 7 4 5

9 5 4 7 6 2 1 3 8

5 4 8 3 7 6 9 2 1

2 7 6 1 9 4 8 5 3

3 1 9 2 8 5 4 6 7

8 9 5 4 3 1 6 7 2

4 2 1 6 5 7 3 8 9

7 6 3 8 2 9 5 1 4

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

hard

medium

easy

J P V I E N Y F Z L X R U

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

3 LETTERS ALE APT ARC ASH CAP EVE FLU FOR FUR IDS LIE LOP MAT NOR NOW PIS PRO RAG ROD SAG SEA TOT UPS USE

9 5

OD A SWK HQGM T B C

WORDFIT

03-12-21 12491600-JW21-21

SUDOKU

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1. The proposed facility consist of the addition of new Optus and Vodafone equipment and associated works as follows (including 5G): • Installation of Three (3) new Vodafone and Six (6) Optus 5G panel antennas (Nine in total) not more than 2.8m in length to be located on the proposed new triangular headframe; 5HSODFHPHQW DQG UHFRQÀJXUDWLRQ RI WKH H[LVWLQJ 7KUHH (3) Vodafone panel antennas not more than 2.8m in length on proposed new triangular headframe; 5HFRQÀJXUDWLRQ RI WKH H[LVWLQJ 7KUHH 2SWXV SDQHO antennas not more than 2.8m in length and relocating them onto the proposed new triangular headframe; ,QVWDOODWLRQ DQG UHFRQÀJXUDWLRQ RI (LJKWHHQ Remote Radio Units (RRUs); • Installation of concrete pole which will be embedded onto the existing structure for strengthening purposes; ,QVWDOODWLRQ DQG UHFRQÀJXUDWLRQ RI QHZ DQFLOODU\ equipment, including steel works, GPS antennas, cabling and other items associated with safety and operation of the facility; and 5HFRQÀJXUDWLRQ DQG LQVWDOODWLRQ RI HTXLSPHQW ZLWKLQ the existing equipment shelter.

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PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE EXISTING VODAFONE AND OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT 445 CRAIGIEBURN ROAD, WOLLERT VIC – 3750 INCLUDING 5G (RFNSA: 3750006)

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2. Vodafone and Optus regards the proposed installation as Low Impact Facility 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: Abhishek Gampala from Nokia Solutions & Networks on 0466 898 356 or at communityrelations.vha@groups.nokia.com COB Tuesday 14th December 2021. Further information may also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3750006

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PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE EXISTING VODAFONE AND OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT SP AUSNET HV TOWER T11 SMTS KTS 2, 1W MAHON ROAD, EPPING VIC - 3076 (RFNSA: 3076016) 1. The proposed facility consist of the addition of new Optus and Vodafone equipment and associated works as follows:

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5HSODFHPHQW DQG UHFRQÀJXUDWLRQ RI WKH H[LVWLQJ 7KUHH (3) Vodafone and Optus panel antennas not more than P LQ OHQJWK RQ SURSRVHG QHZ VWHHO PRXQWV ,QVWDOODWLRQ RI )LYH 0DVW +HDG $PSOLÀHUV 0+$V RQWR WKH SURSRVHG QHZ PRXQWV ,QVWDOODWLRQ DQG UHFRQÀJXUDWLRQ RI QHZ DQFLOODU\ HTXLSPHQW LQFOXGLQJ VWHHO ZRUNV *36 DQWHQQDV FDEOLQJ and other items associated with safety and operation of WKH IDFLOLW\ DQG 5HFRQÀJXUDWLRQ DQG LQVWDOODWLRQ RI HTXLSPHQW ZLWKLQ WKH H[LVWLQJ HTXLSPHQW VKHOWHU 9RGDIRQH DQG 2SWXV UHJDUGV WKH SURSRVHG LQVWDOODWLRQ as Low Impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) EDVHG RQ WKH GHVFULSWLRQ DERYH ,Q DFFRUGDQFH ZLWK 6HFWLRQ RI & 0RELOH 3KRQH %DVH 6WDWLRQ 'HSOR\PHQW &RGH ZH LQYLWH \RX WR SURYLGH IHHGEDFN DERXW WKH SURSRVDO 6KRXOG \RX require further information or wish to comment, please FRQWDFW $EKLVKHN *DPSDOD IURP 1RNLD 6ROXWLRQV 1HWZRUNV RQ RU DW FRPPXQLW\UHODWLRQV YKD#JURXSV QRNLD FRP COB Tuesday 14th December 2021. )XUWKHU LQIRUPDWLRQ PD\ DOVR EH REWDLQHG IURP ZZZ UIQVD FRP DX

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Opportunity to join a Star team Are you a people person? A recent high school or university graduate? Looking for a career change? Star News Group is looking for sales executives to join the team and work closely with clients across the western and northern suburbs. To be successful in this role, applicants must be able to work autonomously and independently but also thrive in a team environment. In a position with a strong community focus, Star Weekly sales executives will engage on online, over the phone and face-to-face with clients and team members. With a base salary and ability to work towards commission, successful applicants will need to be able to achieve multiple KPIs, in both print and digital areas. Experience in the industry or field isn’t a prerequisite, but the ability to adapt to changing circumstances, work to deadlines and maintain discipline will be valued highly. Applicants must also have their driver’s licence and reliable vehicle as well as effective written and oral communication skills. With the potential to face rejection from clients, applicants will need to be resilient and have the ability to bounce back. Cold-calling and visiting clients and businesses will all be a part of the job. “No day is ever the same here – there’s always something going on and you’ll never have a dull moment at Star Weekly,” account manager Gayle Williams said. “The people you’ll meet and the connections you make will hold you in great stead for the future.” On the job training will be provided to successful applicants, with a strong team culture and great office location in Keilor Park waiting for the right fit. For more information on the role or to apply, email Star Weekly’s group advertising sales manager, Mandy Clark, at mandy.clark@ starnewsgroup.com.au.

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RTC Group is a leading provider of maintenance services across Australia, and are seeking Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from potential sub-contractors and ﬁeld staff for the purpose of preparing a response to the above-mentioned Tender. To register your interest, please submit your contact details via email to eoi@rtcgroup.com.au by COB Friday, 3rd December 2021.

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Lexus LS steers a steady course By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring Lexus LS has form: as the LS 400 the luxury sedan, in 1989, led the introduction of Toyota’s premium arm Down Under, becoming the harbinger for a whole range of vehicles from compact hatchbacks to robust SUVs, embracing petrol/electric hybrid technology. Lexus would be the first to admit it called on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan as the template for what was to be its perennial flagship. Fast forward more than 30 years with the arrival of the upgraded LS 500. An upgraded model has come onto the market, which the maker claims, introduces a new level of opulence and a wider application of advanced automotive technology in conventional or hybrid powered variants. Standard features across the range include such things as suspension modifications designed to produce a more comfortable ride while maintaining the model’s dynamic character, the advanced Lexus Safety System+, while F Sport variants gain additional driver-assist features previously exclusive to Sports Luxury. Under the bonnet is a 264 kW 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 hybrid powertrain in the LS 500h, or 310 kW 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine in the LS 500. Both come in F Sport or Sport Luxury grades. Prices start at $195,953 for the former and $201,078 the latter, increases of less than one per cent. Sport Luxury options are White, Black, Chateau and Hazel trims with premium ornamentations at no cost. Other trim and ornamentation combinations are available for an extra $10,000. As well as a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, LS 500 owners can take advantage of the exclusive Lexus Encore Platinum benefits. On test was an LS 500 F Sport model.

Styling Lexus is the first to admit the use, among other things, of the squared off Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan as the template for the LS 400, which with corners knocked off and sharp angles rubbed out in its fifth generation in 2018, gave way to a sleek four-door coupe with the ‘500’ tag. Now, with a 2021 update, LS 500 looks are further enhanced with an elegant new radiator grille, front bumper and tail-lamp highlights, as well as boosted LED headlamps featuring advanced BladeScan adaptive beam technology giving more precise illumination. Further design enhancements include badging, dark metallic accents and grilles and 20-inch dark metallic alloy wheels. Lexus also offers Lustre Shadow, a new exterior paint finish across the range that incorporates flakes of aluminium in a mirror-like finish.

Interior While the cabin surroundings of the test car were generally pleasing to the eye, the garish white-and-black ‘marble cake’ leather trimmed upholstery was something of a shock. Whatever were designers thinking? Ignoring that, the set-up makes the best of spacious room to move, while operating the conveniently positioned controls such as steering wheel, shift lever and pedals, for driving or while being ‘chauffeured’. The familiar old-style analogue clock on the central dashboard, a feature of other Lexus cabins, is always welcome.

Infotainment A new 12.3-inch touch-screen provides easy access to the multimedia system, which includes satellite navigation, access to Apple CarPlay or Android, plus superb all-round sound from a 23-speaker Mark Levinson audio, which incorporates DAB+ digital radio and DVD player and four USB points and AUX input.

Engines / Transmissions The LS 500 F Sport’s 310 kW twin-turbo V6 motor serves up maximum power of 310 kW at 6000 rpm and holds peak torque of 600

AT A GLANCE MODEL LINE-UP Lexus LS 500 and LS 500h F Sport $195,953 Lexus LS 500 and LS 500h Sports Luxury $201,078

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

Nm between 1600 and 4800 rpm, the tasty combination, driving the rear wheels through a ten-speed automatic transmission.

Safety Making its debut in a Lexus is a digital rear-view mirror, Its large display presenting real-time images from the reversing camera, providing improved vision in all weather and lighting conditions while ensuring the view is not obstructed by headrests or passengers. The further advanced Lexus Safety System+ incorporates intersection turning assist, first seen in the new Lexus IS and designed to provide alerts and, if necessary, automatic braking if it detects an oncoming vehicle when turning right, or a pedestrian approaching from the front when turning right or left. The LS also joins the IS with standard Lexus Connected Services, which include Automatic Collision Notification - the ability to generate an automatic emergency call to a round-the-clock emergency call centre and relay the vehicle location in an accident requiring intervention, or if an airbag, of which there are ten, deploys. A full-colour head-up windscreen display provides driving info without the driver having to look away from the road ahead. Lexus LS 500 F Sport floats latest tech in luxury surroundings.

(Pictures: Supplied)

Driving The LS 500’s 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine features re-engineered pistons reducing noise when the engine is cold, while dual variable valve timing adopts hydraulic control on the inlet side to reduce weight while maintaining the engine’s strong torque over a broad rev range. More weight loss is obtained with a new one-piece intake manifold made from aluminium instead of cast iron. Running on the recommended 95 RON petrol, Lexus claims a combined urban / highway fuel consumption of 10 litres per 100 kilometres. The LS 500 F Sport on test returned figures of 11 and 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres respectively. While the F Sport is the performance

model - zero to 100 km/h in 5 seconds - the adaptive variable suspension incorporates height adjustable multi-link front and rear air system, with the F Sport adding front and rear stabilisers producing the calmness of cruising we have come to expect from a Lexus flagship. Standard 20-inch wheels are wrapped with a new run-flat tyre designed with a lower vertical spring rate to reduce the impact of road surface blemishes further adding to ride comfort. The LS 500 is a ‘lolly jar’ brimming with sweet temptations picked through a plethora of easy-to-reach controls including buttons, knobs, switches, pedals, paddles and a touchpad enough to satisfy the ultimate tech-savvy motorist.

Having previously found the Lexus touchpad a tad ticklish to control with the left hand, the LS 500 version appears to have become more positive in reaction to the touch. Alternatively, for those seeking a relaxed no-nonsense experience of comfort and convenience at the pinnacle of Lexus luxury, the LS 500 F Sport will do nicely, thank you.

Summary On introduction to Australia, the Lexus LS 400 set the highest standards of craftsmanship finish and automotive technology not found in cars outside the super-luxury European sedans. More than 30 years later the LS 500 flagship continues the line. Tuesday, 30 November, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 17

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Bundoora in the frame for an exciting season A healthy mix of young and experienced players will help Bundoora RSL’s performance in the Bowls Victoria pennant premier division season. Vice-captain Ben Hubber said the team was looking good as the season kicks off. Bundoora has won both games so far. Hubber said it was an exciting team to be in. “We are a pretty young side overall, but with plenty of experience mixed in,” he said. “We are lucky enough to have Irish international Gary Kelly back with us this year and Australian player Corey Wedlock from [New South Wales] which will hopefully fast-track the development of some of our younger players.” Wedlock is commuting interstate each weekend to play with the team. While the playing group is strong, club legend Adam Galloway is absent this season. Hubber said the star has taken a break from bowls for this year. Nathan Murray has also departed the club. On the flip side, Hubber said the recruits

were exciting. “We recruited [Graham] Guy from Whittlesea, and a young gun in Brody Harker who is traveling down from Swan Hill each week and has been a stand out performer in the first two games this year.” Hubber said the club was very happy with how the season had taken off. He said captain Josh Corless, who has skipped his team to victory in both matches, was settling in to the role. “It’s been good to see some younger players take some opportunities and others settling into new roles within the team,” Hubber said. “Our captain Corless has also played well in big moments. “It’s obviously been a privilege to have [Kelly] and [Wedlock] in the side but when they are unavailable we need to rely on our home grown talent to step up, and I think we are capable of that.” Hubber said the COVID-19 pandemic and Victoria’s lockdowns had impacted the team’s ability to prepare.

“We are a team who really pride ourselves on preparation, so COVID-19 certainly threw up some challenges, but we are working through it as best we can,” he said. “Our playing group has done well so far to not be too distracted by the limited preparation.” Hubber said that despite the pandemic, individuals from the club were able to have some shining moments and personal achievements. Skipper Dean O’Neil was selected to participate in an Australian pathway development squad, and had represented the state against Tasmania earlier this year. “We also have Liam Turner who is the current Victorian under-18 singles winner in our side,” Hubber said. “Also Damon Di Florio has qualified for the Australian indoor singles, to be played in Tweed Heads.” For more results coverage, visit the Star Weekly website. Bundoora RSL’s Gary Kelly.

Michaela Meade

(Damjan Janevski)

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Seidel hopes the Eagles will soar to victory

Epping’s Josh Henkel. (Shawn Smits)

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Pingers open with a win By Michaela Meade A strict coaching program will hopefully lead Epping to finals of the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Barclay Shield. The Pingers opened the season with a win against Research Eltham Collegians. Coach John Bubis said it had been a good start to the season for the club. Bubis joins the Pingers in a coaching role this season, while playing in the second team. He has more than 18 years’ coaching experience. “There’s a good vibe around the club,” he said. “Obviously [it had been] a bit hard with COVID-19 at the start of the season, but everything’s back to normal now. “Everyone’s really keen to come back. “I’m finding that … everyone’s keen to get to training, because obviously we’ve been locked up for so long.” Bubis comes to the club with what he describes as a tough approach that will hopefully pay off with a premiership title down the track. He said the club contacted him about the 18 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 November, 2021

opportunity, seeking his kind of approach. “I’m a bit of a hard coach,” Bubis said. “I’m a stickler for rules at training – we train my way, not their way. “They wanted a hard nut coach, a bit of an old school coach, and that’s what they’re getting at the moment. “This year, different coaching methods have been instilled into the players, into their brains, to think about the game differently. “With the guidance of myself, hopefully they’ll only get better and better.” Bubis said first XI captain Tom Emmins had started off well in his new position. A win right off the bat for the season was a good starting point for Emmins and the team as a whole, Bubis said. “At the moment, he’s going well,” Bubis said. “Hopefully, from all the hard training that they’ve done, that’s going to pay off in weeks to come. “I think they’re playing as a group, as a team, where previously they were a bit individualised.” Bubis said there was an impressive amount

of “mateship” on display at the club. He said the team was starting to gel as a more cohesive unit. “[They] are starting to realise that they’ve got to play for each other,” Bubis said. “There’s still a bit of work to do on that, and I just try to instill that into them week in and week out. “Hopefully they’ll only get better and better as the weeks go on.” Bubis said top players Josh Henkel and Todd Hughes were ones to watch throughout the competition. Henkel and Hughes were both among the runs early, making 70 and 66 respectively in their first win. Bubis said new recruit and “fastball” Daniel Bramich would also prove interesting to watch. Bramich played with Plenty Valley in the Victorian-Sub-District Cricket Association last season, having been a key player for North Metro Cricket Association powerhouse Rivergum previously. Epping was due to face Riverside this weekend, after deadline.

Andrew Seidel has high hopes for Craigieburn Eagles’ Big V women’s division 1 season in 2022. Seidel comes to the Eagles with vast experience, having coached at Sunbury for 30 years. In that time, he guided the Jets youth girls’ side to back-to-back championships in different divisions in 2017-18. After a couple of years break, he was appointed the Melton Thoroughbreds Big V women’s side for the 2020 season. He now joins the Eagles, and said he was “extremely happy”. “I’m very enthusiastic about the whole process,” Seidel said. “I just felt like there’s a little bit of unfinished business, after coaching in the youth program. “I felt that I wanted the senior experience.” Seidel said the Eagles’ women’s side was appealing to him after they finished fourth on the ladder. The Eagles won eight games and lost six. “[The Eagles] probably had every opportunity to win a championship last season,” Seidel said. “I’m very keen and enthusiastic about their chances next season. “I think that they … have got a good window of opportunity for a championship. “They’ll go very close next season, if everything falls into place.” Seidel said he had a defensive, structured mindset as a coach, but also a passion for the team to “get out there and run”. He said he would approach the season with a hybrid mindset. “[We] want to be a very quick team from back court to front court, and also be a very structured team,” he said. “Three aspects; strong in defence, quick from rim to rim, and then to be very structured, which will hopefully allow us to score freely and beat most teams.” Seidel said he would be “very keen” to welcome any interested players – new or experienced – to try out for the team. Michaela Meade

Two Calder Cannons stars drafted to the AFL The Calder Cannons had two of their brightest players picked up in the AFL draft last week. Josh Goater was selected with the 22nd pick by North Melbourne. Speaking to Fox Sports, he said he was eager to get into the blue and white stripes, and had even delayed heading to his school formal to watch the draft with his family. “It was a bit of mixed emotions. I would have loved to go [in the first round] and relieve the stress a bit, but I’m absolutely over the moon to land at North Melbourne,” he said. “I’ve followed North Melbourne my whole life and I’m stoked to be able to be at that pick and land myself at that club.” The Sunbury Lions Football Club shared a message on Facebook congratulating him after his name was announced. “Josh started with the Sunbury Lions juniors and progressed to play his first senior game

Joshua Goater.

(Damjan Janevski) 256489_01

alongside big brother Luke in round one this year, and showed the class to prove that he was here only for a short time, and now takes the next step to where he will truly shine,” the post read. “Enjoy the journey and where your football

takes you, we will be watching every step buddy.” Meanwhile, Cannons best and fairest winner Zac Taylor was scooped up by Adelaide at number 44. The 180-centimetre midfielder was a standout in the NAB League and also impressed playing in the seniors for Oak Park, where he kicked four goals in a match against Keilor Park. That same weekend he had the opportunity to show his stuff in the VFL for Essendon, where he accumulated 10 disposals and four marks against a cluster of AFL listed players. Across the NAB League season Taylor averaged 26 disposals, six marks and four tackles. Taylor also averaged 21 disposals playing for Vic Metro in two trial games. He finished four points clear of Sam Paea in the Cannon’s best and fairest, and six points

ahead of Flynn Lakey. Lakey claimed the league’s highest honour, the Morrish Medal, but did not have his name read out in the draft. Adelaide national recruiting manager Hamish Ogilvie told Crows media Taylor was an easy pick for the club. “Zac is a feisty little player. At that stage of the draft the two boys were just too good not to take so we stayed true to our talent order,” Ogilvie said. “Zac is a small forward, half-forward and midfielder, he played midfield with the Calder Cannons and senior footy with his local club. “He can get a lot of the ball and has real speed to get outside with his agility so it’s a speed/ agility combo and again he was really high on our talent order so we are very pleased to bring the two boys in together.” Oliver Lees

Bundoora Park notch up a win

New Brisbane Lions recruit Darcy Wilmot and, inset, Josh Ward is on his way to Hawthorn. (Pictures: Supplied)

AFL dreams come true By Michaela Meade Northern Knights’ Darcy Wilmot, Josh Ward and Jackson Archer have had their dreams realised at the 2021 AFL draft. Wilmot will get his claws out with the Brisbane Lions, while Ward will spread his wings with Hawthorn and Archer will jump ahead with North Melbourne. At 17 years old, Wilmot has made a name for himself as a strong defender, and was the youngest player in the draft. Speaking to Fox Sports minutes after the announcement – and being excitedly jumped on by friends – Wilmot said he would bring “the best footy” to the Lions. “Hard work, determination, just everything I’ve got in me – I’ll bring to the AFL,” he said. In a post to the Lions’ website, national recruiting manager Stephen Conole said the club were extremely pleased and excited. Conole said Wilmot had a rare mix of defence and offence skills that made him unique in the draft pool. “He is a super competitive player whose ability to defend well but also run and create from behind the game really appeals,” Conole

said. “He played predominately as a small defender this year, but we have seen him play through the wing and across half forward in his junior years. “He has enormous scope to develop into a terrific player for us going forward.” Young midfielder Ward was selected at pick seven by his dream team. Speaking on draft coverage, Ward said his great-grandfather, Alex Lee, played 32 games with the side, with his whole family supporting the club from then on. “He’s the reason the whole family barracks for them [the Hawks],” Ward said. “[It] means a lot to go there. “[My] family will be happy they don’t have to buy any more merch for another club now.” Ward said it was “unbelievable” and an “incredible feeling” to be scooped up by the Hawks. Ward had been a star for the Knights’ in the 2021 season, averaging over 30 possessions a game and demonstrated impressive running capacity in the draft combine, finishing the two kilometre time trial in five minutes and 57 seconds. In a post to the Hawks’ website, the club said

Ward was a hard-working on-baller for his team. “A classy player capable of consistently winning mountains of possessions, Ward poses as an exciting prospect for the Hawks in the years to come,” the post said. Archer will follow in his father’s footsteps with the Kangaroos. Archer’s father, Glenn, played 311 games for the club, including in the 1996 and 1999 premierships and is considered one of the club greats. Speaking to North Melbourne media, list manager Glenn Luff said the club had gone into the draft knowing it was one with some versatility, with Archer bringing unique skills. “Jackson Archer comes in as more of a shutdown defender on the smalls and mediums,” Luff said. “We’re really excited with what we’ve brought in in the draft. “We feel like we have a really even mix of players coming through the club in this off season and we’re excited to see them on the track.” Archer is a medium-sized defender, and forged a reputation for himself with a courageous, hard-nosed playing style.

A super over resulted in Bundoora Park taking home the win in the first round of the Northern Region T20 competition last Tuesday night. The reigning champions faced Bundoora in the pool two match, with a super over needed after the sides came away with tied scores. Bundoora Park made 3-148, while Bundoora made in 5-148 in reply. Tarwan Rennie made 57 for Bundoora Park, with Bundoora taking three individual wickets. Shupinder Taggar put in Bundoora’s strongest performance with the bat, making 51. Rubal Singh-Dhillon bowled well for Bundoora Park, taking 2-22. Bundoora Park then won after the bowl-off. Old Paradians dominated Rivergum in pool two. Udara Ranasingha was the star for Old Paradians, making 70 not out as his side finished with 4-131. He then backed it up with the ball, taking 5-12 as Rivergum were bowled out for 99 with 15 balls remaining. Bundoora United won its pool three match against Heidelberg West. Batting first, Heidelberg West made 6-196. Bundoora United’s Ikroop Dhanoa took 3-28. Joel Thompson and Scott Barnett made 69 and 55 respectively for the Bulldogs, with the team finishing with 8-197, and getting the win. Epping put in a powerful performance against Mernda in the pool five match. Mernda elected to bat and was bowled out for 117 with three balls remaining. Mernda were unable to get Shanyn Kearney and Josh Henkel out, and the Pingers finished with 1-118. Lalor Stars beat Whittlesea Whittlesea made 8-162 from its overs. Stars’ David Worthington put in a solid performance at bat, making 90 runs, to help his side reach 2-163. Mill Park had a slow start against Keon Park in the pool seven match. Keon Park elected to bat, with Mill Park struggling to contain them. Mill Park had a fierce turn at bat, with Adam McLaughlin making 90. The Tigers finished 3-190, hitting the winning runs with 10 balls remaining.

Tuesday, 30 November, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 19

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