Star Weekly - Northern - 14th December 2021

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14 DECEMBER, 2021

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Hopes for a pet ‘miracle’ Second Chance Animal Rescue (SCAR) is appealing for support to keep its Safe House for Pets program running.

The program provides temporary care for the pets of owners facing challenges as victims of domestic and family violence.

SCAR chief executive Marisa Debattista said the program allowed owners to find safe, permanent housing without worrying about their animals.

“We safely house the pets of people escaping violent situations and look after these animals while their owners seek safe refuge,” she said.

“Once they have secured permanent safe housing we reunite them.

“The tears and look of pure joy on owners’ faces when they are reunited with their pets again after a traumatic time is just incredible.”

Ms Debattista said SCAR received calls daily asking for help, but that it was struggling to make ends meet, putting the program’s continuation at risk.

She said SCAR was “looking for a miracle” to keep the refuge open.

Details: secondchanceanimarescue. com.au Michaela Meade

MARISA DEBATTISTA WITH LEXINGTON

50-metre pool a reality The Whittlesea community will be able to dive into a 50-metre pool from 2025, with Whittlesea council finally endorsing a competition-length pool as its preferred option for the Mernda Sports Hub. After numerous reports to council over the last two years, Whittlesea’s administrators voted last Tuesday night to include a 50-metre pool in the new sports precinct.

The Mernda Sports Hub on Plenty Road will house leisure, aquatics and sports court facilities.

The aquatic centre has been a contentious

issue in the community, with plans presented to the former council multiple times in 2019.

Councillors initially opted to develop business cases for a centre with and without a 25-metre pool.

The decision resulted in community backlash, with residents calling for a 50-metre pool to be included.

At the time, the council said it couldn’t afford a 50-metre pool.

Then, in December, 2020, Whittlesea council’s administrators resolved to investigate two new designs for the centre – one with a 25-metre pool and the other with a 50-metre pool.

Financial forecasting at the time revealed the centre would cost $80.3 million, including a $55.7 million 50-metre pool, compared to $75.6 million, including a $51 million 25-metre pool.

A report tabled at council last Tuesday stated the overall leisure, aquatics and sports court facility would cost over $113 million.

Extend the Pool in Mernda campaign leader Ryan Hogan said he would “believe it when I can swim it”.

“Build it and they will swim,” he said.

“After years upon years of the people of Whittlesea demanding this development and being told ‘we’ll look into it’ and some

god-awful political nonsense, it’s glorious to see our group of appointed administrators – inside two years – do exactly what the previous elected council couldn’t in 10 years.”

Mr Hogan said it was an “amazing development” to have the project promised.

Chair administrator Lydia Wilson said it was the “most significant” infrastructure project the administrators would ever resolve upon.

“It is a legacy project of paramount importance to the Whittlesea community,” Ms Wilson said. “This proposal … will be a benefit to children, families and older people of all backgrounds.”

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.

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Find us on Facebook www.westgarthtown.org.au

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School shortage raises concern

By Michaela Meade The Greenvale Residents’ Association (GRA) has expressed concerns about Greenvale’s lack of schools, following Hume council’s rejection of a planning application for one last month.

Safety concerns led the council to reject a proposal for a 250-lot development on Providence Road, which also included a plan for a secondary school.

Cr Jarrod Bell – who is a Victoria State Emergency Service volunteer – raised concerns about the development’s fire safety risk, citing the surrounding flammable bushland and

‘‘

I’m sure appropriate planning and fire breaks would assist future developments - Tamara Nolan

’’

single entry and exit point as particular key issues.

GRA president Tamara Nolan said there was a pre-existing example of a school in a similar situation.

“If we take a look back 20 years or so at

our local private college, it was and still is in a similar situation – surrounded by parkland full of trees and only one entry and exit point,” she said.

“There is a precedent for school developments to be built near parkland already in Greenvale.

“I’m certain the [proposed] school would establish an emergency management plan as all schools are required to.

“With further consultation with the local parks and [the Country Fire Authority] I’m sure appropriate planning and fire breaks would assist future developments in this area.”

Ms Nolan said that while she had not had an

opportunity to survey local residents on the topic, she suspected there would be a mixture of responses about the proposal, as schools were much-needed.

“Secondary schools would be welcomed as residents have not had a variety of selection and typically have sent their children out of the zone for their education,” she said. “Schools would increase the value and attractiveness of property in the area to residents in Greenvale.

“With so many new developments and estates being built close by with young families, the school would be well positioned for future enrolments.”

The show will go on Whittlesea Secondary College is putting on a show for the masses, following multiple delays.

Students at the Whittlesea school have been trying to stage a production of the popular musical “Mamma Mia” since term three, according to director Shaun Geerlings-Parker.

“After COVID-19 led to the cancellation of the college’s 2020 production, students are excited to be able to finally stage the 2021 production after three changes of dates,” Mr Geerlings-Parker said.

“The production was originally meant to be staged in September [but] due to the lockdown in term three we were unable to rehearse the show which meant that this had to be postponed.

“The cast and crew worked tirelessly over Microsoft Teams to rehearse the show remotely.”

Mr Geerlings-Parker said remote rehearsals

caused a range of challenges, but the cast and crew took advantage of every opportunity, and “gave it their all”.

He said the production can finally go ahead, with fewer COVID-19 restrictions than initially thought, with full capacity of 150 patrons allowed.

“The cast and crew [have] added the final touches and are looking forward to getting audience members dancing in the aisles as we perform some of ABBAs biggest hits,” Mr Geerlings-Parker said.

The students will take to the stage from Wednesday to Sunday, with tickets available on the school’s website.

Details: whittleseasc.vic.edu.au Michaela Meade Whittlesea Secondary College students during dress rehearsal for the musical. (Supplied)

M80 Ring Road ramp closure As part of the M80 Upgrade, we’re building new elevated ramps at Edgars Road to improve traffic flow on and off the freeway.

The Greensborough-bound ramp from the Hume Freeway to Edgars Road will remain closed until early 2022 so we can finish upgrading the ramp.

While the ramp is closed, detours will be in place via Cooper Street and Edgars Road. We encourage you to allow additional travel time and plan your journeys in advance to avoid any potential delays.

The new Greensborough-bound ramps from the Hume Freeway to M80 Ring Road, and the M80 Ring Road to Edgars Road will open in mid-December and will improve safety and traffic flow by separating traffic entering and exiting the freeway.

To celebrate summer at URBNSURF we are excited to offer locals 25% off Individual Learn to Surf Lessons until 24.12.21

For more information visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au

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Approval for controversial hotel

By Michaela Meade The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) has granted a planning permit to developers of a controversial Westmeadows hotel proposal.

The building proposal for a residential hotel at 11-17 Ardlie Street, Westmeadows, which included partial demolition and works within a heritage overlay, was refused by Hume council in April.

The proposal was met with 252 objections from residents, including a petition with

679 signatures.

The developers appealed the council’s decision, taking the proposal to VCAT. After a five day hearing, VCAT handed down its ruling on Tuesday, December 7.

VCAT has resolved to grant the permit for the hotel, which will be four storeys, and include a cafe.

In the ruling, VCAT said the foyer included in the plans must be “pulled back” into the hotel building, and that the top floor facing Ardlie Street must be made “more recessive”.

VCAT said it appreciated the community’s

concern for the development, but that the plans were a “very good outcome”.

“We accept that the site is in a sensitive area, but conclude that the building’s height, size and appearance is a very good response to this sensitivity,” VCAT said.

“We find that the activity associated with a residential hotel is a good fit because it is more subdued than many commercial uses.

“As well as this, it will provide modest benefits like local employment and possibly some discretionary spending (like a meal at the Westmeadows Tavern or some incidental

purchases at the nearby shops).”

Hume councillor Naim Kurt told Star Weekly that while VCAT’s decision was “disappointing”, some of the amendments were small wins for the community.

“Although disappointing, [VCAT] has decided to reduce the hotel’s foyer and top level, to ensure better site lines are maintained towards the heritage building,” Cr Kurt said.

“This is a good outcome and wouldn’t have been achieved without the community speaking up.”

Deck the festival halls The Whittlesea Agricultural Society (WAS) has launched the inaugural Whittlesea Community Christmas Tree Extravaganza.

Organisations, shops, trades, community groups, schools, individuals and any other interested parties are being invited to enter a decorated Christmas tree for the event.

WAS president Erica Hawke said she proposed the idea following two years with no Whittlesea Show.

She said it was the “perfect time” for the community to come together, and that the response so far was encouraging.

“We have had a great response from the community,” Ms Hawke said.

“The WAS administration building is packed with decorated trees, lights and decorations.

“Some trees are decorated in a theme depending on the business or organisation and some are just made to look pretty.

“The overall effect is a Christmas

Wonderland in the Whittlesea township for everyone to enjoy.”

The entry fee is $10 per decorated tree, and the fee to view is a gold coin donation.

Ms Hawke said the proceeds will be donated to a local community group or cause, as voted for by the public.

The Christmas Tree Extravaganza will be open until Thursday, December 23, from noon until 9pm.

Sensory sessions with low light and music will run on Wednesdays from noon until 3pm.

Details: info@whittleseashow.org.au Michaela Meade

Whittlesea Agricultural Society committee member Kevin Le Poidevin. (Damjan Janevski) 260412_02

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Kids visit FREE* Book tickets online *Children under 16 years of age receive free admission to Healesville Sanctuary, Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo on weekends, Victorian public holidays and Victorian Government school holidays.

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Whittlesea invests in housing for all

A group of Bush Bus participants.

(Damjan Janevski) 260226

All abord the Bush Bus A mobile nature-based play and social group has parked at Merrifield.

The Bush Bus, which provides families with an outdoor learning environment for children from up six years of age, has set up shop at the Mickleham site.

The service is being supported by funding from the 2021 Merrifield Community Partnership Program (MCPP).

Founder and managing director Georgina Dymock said the idea for the bus was born

from experiences with her own children.

“My children … they’ve been raised in nature,” she said.

“I knew that not all children were getting the same experience my children were, and I wanted to do something about it.

“The benefit is [also] for parents and carers who, especially the past two years, this was their only social connection.”

Ms Dymock said funding support from sources like the MCPP was crucial to keeping

the service running, without creating a monetary barrier for parents.

“Sponsors and support for the bus allows us to bring the program to a wider community … it allows us to facilitate the fun,” Ms Dymock said.

“People who need it wouldn’t be able to come without the support.

“It allows us to make a difference.”

Whittlesea council will develop 35 lots of land in Mernda, reserving three for use as social housing.

At a council meeting last week, council administrators resolved to develop, construct, subdivide and sell property at 17-19 Johnsons Road, Mernda, following the completion of a community engagement process.

In a report, council officers said the land had been purchased from the state government in 2014 with the “strategic intent” of selling the property at a future point in time, for a return to be reinvested into community infrastructure.

As part of this project, three lots will be reserved for sale or leased to a registered social housing organisation.

Acting corporate services director Mark Montague said officers decided on three lots for social housing after consideration of social and affordable housing implications.

According to the report, out of nine submissions from residents, five agreed with three lots being allocated for social housing. One stated more than three were favourable, while three wanted fewer than three lots.

Council administrator Chris Eddy said the council was taking a sensible and responsible approach to the project. “[We are] trying to make, as small as it is with this project, a contribution to dealing with those very serious affordable housing issues that we have in the City of Whittlesea,” Mr Eddy said.

Michaela Meade

What’s on in the City of Whittlesea

Council dives in to support healthy communities

Park adventures abound this summer!

The state-of-the-art centre, to be located on Plenty Road in Mernda, is expected to include four pools, including a 50-metre multipurpose pool, a regional netball complex with six indoor sports courts and eight outdoor netball courts, and an impressive gym.

The City of Whittlesea has started construction on a temporary gravel overflow parking area at the All Abilities Play Space to make your visit even easier this summer. Construction is expected to be complete by 24 December 2021.

A new era of health, wellbeing and recreation for City of Whittlesea residents is another step closer, with Council approving a new major leisure, aquatic and sports court facility, which will service the whole of the municipality.

Construction is anticipated to start by 2025.

For more information and to sign up for email updates, visit whittlesea.vic.gov.au/merndasportshub

The All Abilities Play Space, located at Mill Park Recreation Reserve, is the first fully fenced and accessible park in the City of Whittlesea. It features a multilevel accessible play tower, water play splash pad, a full-sized basketball court, agility equipment and more.

With over 240 parks with playgrounds in the City of Whittlesea, there are so many special spots to discover.

To find a park or play space near you, visit whittlesea.vic.gov.au/parks

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Funding for ‘gateway’ Whittlesea council will spend over $7.8 million to deliver the Granite Hills Park project, with elements added following community consultation.

According to a council report, the new park in South Morang will be a “gateway” to the nearby Quarry Hills Regional Parkland.

Over 250 responses were received during community consultation, with favourite design elements including a flying fox, a hill-to-hill trail, a nature play area, water play, and a slide mountain, the report said.

Administrator Peita Duncan said the project was a “fantastic initiative”.

“This is going to be a phenomenal area for people to go and do all sorts of things,” Ms Duncan said. “It gives our residents another opportunity to be outside, [improving] health and wellbeing, with their families and friends.

“We’ve picked a very good spot to do something like this … it’s a unique opportunity for our local residents [and] any visitors to the city.

“I can’t wait for this construction to start.”

Chair administrator Lydia Wilson said the community feedback included “rich comments”.

“It’s really fantastic that despite the COVID-19 restrictions, we’ve in general got such wonderful community feedback,” Ms Wilson said.

“This is an example of genuine community consultation and listening to community views.”

Construction is expected to begin in October, 2022.

Michaela Meade

Teen dies following crash A teenager has died in hospital following a single vehicle crash in Roxburgh Park last week. Police said the 15-year-old boy, believed to be the driver of the car, was travelling along Roxburgh Park Drive in a Holden Commodore station wagon when the car mounted the kerb and struck a tree on Wednesday, December 8, just after 6.30pm.

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Concept art for Granite Hills Park’s slide mountain.

A man has been charged following an road rage assault in Epping in which a man sustained serious burns after a flammable liquid and lit rag was allegedly thrown onto him and his car.

A 35-year-old man was arrested after police executed a search warrant at a Narina Way, Epping, address on Friday morning. He has been charged with 15 offences including intentionally causing serious injury, recklessly causing serious injury and conduct endangering life. The charges follow an incident outside an Aranda Way address on Thursday, December 9.

6 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 14 December, 2021

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Haweil bids for new state seat

By Michaela Meade Hume councillor Joseph Haweil has failed in his bid to be pre-selected by the Labor Party to contest the seat of Greenvale at next year’s state election, with the party selecting Iwan Walters instead.

Cr Haweil recently served as mayor of the municipality, and saw the community transform from one of the most COVID-19 infected cities in Victoria to one of the most vaccinated, with new federal health data revealing over 95 per cent of eligible residents had received two doses of vaccine as at Sunday, December 5.

He also chaired the Northern Councils

‘‘

Rebuilding this COVID-ravaged community starts with genuine local representation - Joseph Haweil

’’

Alliance and the Interface Councils group – which advocate for increased road and infrastructure funding for the northern growth corridor – and served on the board of the Municipal Association of Victoria – the state’s peak legislated local government body.

Cr Haweil said he would be able to represent his community well, as “Greenvale is my home”.

“I know the community and its needs intimately and am best placed to represent it in the challenging years ahead,” he said.

“As mayor during the peak of the [COVID-19] outbreak, I fought for community-specific vaccination opportunities in this community of battlers, leveraging my deep community knowledge and networks to secure appointment-free vaccinations, pop-up hubs in council facilities, interpreters and bi-cultural workers on site and a massive boost in Pfizer supply into the north.”

Cr Haweil has a professional background in humanitarian and settlement policy.

He said his familial history of refugee experience and his professional background made him an ideal candidate in the region known for refugee resettlement.

“I’m calling on the premier, my fellow local branch members and our community to back a genuinely local candidate that lives in the electorate, reflects its diversity and can unite our community as we enter the rebuilding phase of the pandemic,” Cr Haweil said.

“Rebuilding this COVID-ravaged community starts with genuine local representation.

“As somebody who reflects the diverse face of the Greenvale community, I feel called to duty and am best placed to represent this community.”

Student entrepreneur A Greenvale VCE student and entrepreneur is easing the study stresses of his peers, with the development of a planning app – StudyMeter.

Eric, 17, said when he started high school, he had trouble discerning what tasks from each subject he should focus on.

“I found it confusing,” he said.

“It’s something that people struggle with all through school.

“I put together a basic spreadsheet for each unit, and would track my workload and priorities.

“Some of my mates saw it in class and asked for access … then more and more people asked about it.”

After speaking with teachers and other schools, Eric found an “overwhelming” need for his app.

He won Exo Digital’s Pitch Tank competition,

which identifies entrepreneurial talent, and has started an Innovation Sprint workshop to help him develop his product.

“We’ve already started, I’m getting mentored by a tech consulting company,” Eric said. “[I’m learning] how to build the business plan… [and] legitimise the idea, from the fundamentals and take it to a legitimate business.”

Eric said he hoped that by participating in the workshop, as well as with seed money from another competition – the Aussie Student Inventions Competition – he can turn his idea into a viable business.

Michaela Meade Greenvale student Eric.

(Supplied)

Wishing you happy holidays & a new year filled with health & prosperity.

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Please contact me to discuss any State Government matters you may have.

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No shade in Hume playgrounds

By Michaela Meade A Hume councillor has called out the lack of shaded playgrounds in the municipality.

The Melbourne Playgrounds group completed an analysis of 4000 playgrounds across Melbourne, and found that Hume had the lowest percentage of shaded playgrounds, with 0 per cent.

Neighbouring municipality Whittlesea did not fare better, with the group finding 1 per cent of playgrounds in the area are shaded.

According to the group, Glen Eira council had

the highest percentage of shaded playgrounds, at 50 per cent.

Cr Naim Kurt said it was disappointing to see Hume rated last. He said the community should not have to be uncomfortable on hot slides when using playgrounds.

“I continue to receive feedback that many of Hume’s playgrounds are simply inaccessible to families during the summer months, because of limited shade being available,” Cr Kurt said.

“Many families tell me they are travelling to other parts of Melbourne to access better shaded areas.

“Previously council has not used shade sails at playgrounds due to cost and maintenance issues.

“With hotter summer months and skin cancer risks, I believe council needs to re-assess this position.”

Cr Kurt said he had reached out to senior management at council to ask for shaded play spaces to be prioritised, as part of the new open space strategy.

Hume council planning and development director Michael Sharp said the municipality’s play spaces were designed with the inclusion of

shade both in the structure of the playground and from established trees.

He said the council also plants new trees as required to provide additional natural shade.

“Shade sails are not used in open spaces due to the high cost of maintenance and safety issues associated with inappropriate use,” Mr Sharp said. “Council is developing its draft Open Space Strategy 2021-2031, which is scheduled for reporting to council in early 2022.

“The strategy will look at modern shade options that are more robust and low maintenance than sails.”

Festive hospital appeal Northern Health is encouraging the community to “spare a thought” for patients in the children’s unit at Northern Hospital this Christmas.

In a post to the organisation’s website, Northern Health announced that for the fifth year in a row, ISS Facility Services is running a Christmas appeal.

The appeal is run in the hopes of making a difference in the lives of children in hospital who will be spending the holiday season away from their families.

Children’s unit nurse unit manager Courtney Lowry said the past two years had been “especially challenging” for children in the ward because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Year after year the ISS Christmas Appeal has brought a smile to the children in our care, during what is a stressful time while they are in hospital,” Ms Lowry said. “I would urge staff and colleagues to support this appeal.”

ISS Facility Services’ facility services

manager Snezana Poposka said she organised the appeal after realising there were children in hospital without the “simple pleasure” of a Christmas present, while others were surrounded by family.

“It doesn’t have to be an expensive present,” Ms Poposka said.

“It’s the thought that matters more.

“It is a chance to bring a smile to a child.”

For more information and to organise present drop-off, contact Ms Poposka.

Details: 0491 229 789 Michaela Meade

ISS Services’ key account manager Saj Amerasinghe, facilities service manager Snezana Poposka, and children’s unit nurse unit manager Courtney Lowry with a patient.

(Supplied)

Grassfires move so quickly, it’s impossible to outrun them.

This summer, significant pasture growth in paddocks and roadsides means that fast-moving grassfires will be a serious risk across Victoria. Rural grassfires can be just as dangerous as bushfires, and can actually spread even faster, travelling at speeds of up to 25km/h. If you live close to open paddocks or grasslands, you could be at risk and need to be prepared. On high-risk Fire Danger Rated days, the safest option is to leave early.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to vic.gov.au/knowfire

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TANIA MAXWELL MP Derryn Hinch's Justice Party MEMBER FOR NORTHERN VICTORIA It's been a tough year. So many of you have worked so hard nursing, caring, teaching and keeping business open and sport and community groups active. Thank you.

Best wishes for the festive season. taniamaxwell.com.au

(Supplied)

Rackets out for squash A Gladstone Park squash club has come back to life post-COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions, welcoming the community to ‘come and try’ days.

Gladstone Park Junior Squash Club is a non-profit organisation, run by volunteers, which has struggled over the pandemic, according to social media and communications manager Kearin Guziak.

Ms Guziak said from the club’s perspective, lockdowns disrupted people’s routines, ultimately resulting in membership losses.

“With extended lockdowns, interest also waned,” she said.

“Our regular programs came to a halt, and we lost consistency – this also impacted regular attendance.

“These are the things we are now focussed on rebuilding.

“Really, we’re starting from scratch, which is turning out to be a positive thing, allowing us to rethink and rebuild an improved structure and get back to the fun times our club enjoyed before we were hit by the pandemic.”

Ms Guziak said once restrictions in Victoria had eased, the club organised “come and try” sessions to run every Friday for four weeks.

Due to popularity, the sessions are running for six weeks.

Ms Guziak said between 20 and 25 children have attended each session so far.

She said due to the “encouraging response”, the club can offer more people the opportunity to try the sport.

“We’re offering this program free of charge to provide an opportunity for those new to the sport to give it a go, as well as for those wishing to return after such a long break,” Ms Guziak said.

“Our coaches plan out the sessions to ensure it is inclusive and suitable for all levels.

“All our kids are wonderfully supportive, and this adds to the relaxed and fun atmosphere.”

Details: www.facebook.com/GPJSC.com.au

03 4700 1787

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A Gladstone Park Junior Squash Club ’come and try’ group.

tania.maxwell@parliament.vic.gov.au PO Box 994 Wangaratta VIC 3676 taniamaxwellmp

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School journey starts Twins Avinoor and Parinoor are eagerly counting down the days until school starts.

The sisters are among 168 preps starting at Hume Anglican Grammar next week, with 84 enrolled at each of the school’s two campuses at Mt Ridley and Donnybrook.

Schools across Hume and Whittlesea will begin welcoming their 2021 prep pupils from Thursday. This week will also mark the opening of three new primary schools in Hume and Whittlesea.

Mickleham’s Gaayip-Yagila Primary School, Greenvale’s Keelonith Primary School and Wollert’s Edgars Creek Primary School will all open their doors for the first time.

They are among eight new schools to open in Hume and Whittlesea over the next four years, with Kalkallo Commons Primary School, Greenvale Secondary College, Wollert East Primary School and a Catholic primary school in Mickleham scheduled to open in 2022.

A Catholic primary school in Greenvale is expected to open in 2023.

School journey starts Twins Avinoor and Parinoor are eagerly counting down the days until school starts.

The sisters are among 168 preps starting at Hume Anglican Grammar next week, with 84 enrolled at each of the school’s two campuses at Mt Ridley and Donnybrook.

Schools across Hume and Whittlesea will begin welcoming their 2021 prep pupils from Thursday. This week will also Laura Michell mark the opening of three new By primary (Damjan Janevski) 225262_01

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Laura Michell

Melbourne Airport has asked the state government to give it more power to intervene in developments which could impact aircraft operations or lead to noise complaints.

Airport operators Australia Pacific Airports (Melbourne) has made a submission to the state government’s Melbourne Airport Environs Safeguarding Committee, which was set up to advise the planning minister on improvements to the planning provisions safeguarding the airport.

In its submission, Melbourne Airport called for the government to designate it as a referral authority, meaning applicants would formally be required to consult with the airport on any

developments in the surrounding area. The submission stated that the airport is currently notified of planning permit applications as though it were a “third-party objector”.

“Unlike a determining or even recommending referral authority, its position on any application has no statutory significance,” the submission stated.

The submission cited recent applications and approvals which had the potential to generate a large number of noise complaints or impact on aircraft operations, including housing development in Phillip Street, Dallas, and a waste to energy facility proposed for Craigieburn.

It stated the airport receives about 20 noise complaints per month – a figure the airport says will rise in the coming years given the

number of people now living in areas impacted by aircraft noise.

Operators fear that if they are not granted a greater say in nearby developments, the airport could face constraints on its operations, such as a curfew or a reduction in airspace.

“Constraints such as restrictions on flight paths, aircraft volumes (even during daylight hours) and aircraft types are all potential risks to the flexibility that Melbourne Airport’s operations presently enjoy,” the submission states. “The introduction of any such restrictions would have significant and far-reaching consequences for both Melbourne Airport, and its contribution to the state economy.”

Melbourne Airport chief financial officer Grant Devonport said that if approved, referral

authority status would ensure the airport is consulted from the outset on developments subject to noise impacts, and those that have the potential to impact on aircraft operations.

A Hume council submission to the inquiry stated the council “remains committed to protecting Melbourne Airport’s 24-hour curfew free operation”. It said meeting the needs of the general population growth of Melbourne, Hume and other aircraft noise-affected municipalities, has been a source of tension at the planning permit stage.

“How to strike an appropriate balance between facilitating community needs and expectations against protecting the operations of Melbourne Airport is a difficult question that needs to be given very careful consideration.”

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12481470-NG07-21

Airport bid for more power

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Tuesday, 14 December, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 9

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Help needed for MCH ‘stressors’

By Michaela Meade Whittlesea council will advocate for more support for Maternal and Child Health (MCH) services in the community.

In a report tabled at this week’s council meeting, officers responded to the Interface Councils group’s draft issues paper concerning sector challenges for MCH services.

Interface Councils is a group of 10 municipalities, including Whittlesea and Hume, that work to gain better services and

infrastructure for residents.

According to the council report, there were 21,140 children aged 0-six years enrolled in Whittlesea’s MCH service between June 2020 and July 2021.

The issues paper stated six “stressors” need to be addressed for MCH services in Melbourne.

They included shortages in the MCH workforce, gaps in funding across the entire MCH model, and COVID-19 pandemic impacts.

Donnybrook jobs boost Up to 500 jobs are expected to be created thanks to a new adult education program at the Olivine estate in Donnybrook.

Olivine developer, Mirvac, has partnered with non-profit education provider Prace and Winslow Constructors to launch the program, the Civil Construction Labourer program.

The program forms part of Mirvac and Whittlesea council’s promise to deliver lifelong learning and employment opportunities for the northern growth corridor.

Mirvac residential head Stuart Penklis said the program’s launch “reinforced” the company’s commitment to create sustainable communities, with a focus on increasing social connectivity and access to quality education.

Mr Penklis said the company was “extremely proud” of the initiative.

“The new program will have a positive impact on the growing community, as well as future generations,” he said.

“We are excited to see more students complete the course and enter the local workforce with

10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 14 December, 2021

Winslow Constructors.”

The courses will be operated out of Olivine Place, a community facility launched in November last year.

Whittlesea administrator Peita Duncan said: “Olivine Place showcases best practice social planning.

“The new education program joins a growing list of community activities that operate out of Olivine Place, providing both economic benefits as well as community connection.”

Details: www.olivine.mirvac.com Michaela Meade

Mirvac residential head Stuart Penklis, Mirvac residential Victoria general manager Elysa Anderson and Training and Skills Minister Gayle Tierney in front of Olivine Place. (Supplied)

Whittlesea council’s chair administrator Lydia Wilson said it was surprising to learn of the scope of issues faced by the MCH service.

“I thought I was really quite well informed in relation to [MCH] services,” Ms Wilson said.

“I was quite surprised and quite shocked to understand some of the current issues that are being experienced right across the whole range of [MCH] services, which is such an important service to all of our communities, not just in Victoria but nationwide.

“[I am] fully supportive of a strong advocacy approach, supporting the Interface [councils] group.”

The council will also write to all state government MPs to seek their support for its advocacy efforts, and will explore partnership opportunities with relevant educational institutions to address workforce gaps in MCH nursing.

A report with specific actions for the council to take is expected to be put forward to the administrators no later than February, 2022.

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NEWS

Funds help victims land safely

By Michaela Meade The Northern Community Legal Centre (NCLC) has welcomed funding for a project aimed at helping victims of family violence.

The centre, located in Broadmeadows, will receive $120,000 from the Victorian Legal Services Board and Commissioner (VLSB+C) for its Safe Landing Project.

The project extends a model of integrated migration and family violence related legal support for women experiencing family violence on temporary visas in Melbourne’s

north-west.

NCLC chief executive Jenni Smith said the project created support for women who are in unsafe situations, to get to a position of safety. “[The funding] means that we can firstly and foremost assist victims of family violence in a way that really improves their safety,” Ms Smith said.

“Secondly, [the funding] serves as recognition of what we think is very powerful work.”

Ms Smith said that the need for a program like the Safe Landing Project was high in Hume.

“Hume had the second highest rate of family violence in the last month to November,” Ms Smith said.

Ms Smith said the project is the extension of a pilot program that launched after a “gap” was identified in available support.

She said the pilot program, which had focused on the Indian community, was “extremely successful”.

“There were increasing numbers of Indian women in our family violence clinics, but we did not have the expertise or capacity to assist them, as threats of visa cancellation …

were forcing many back into unsafe family situations,” Ms Smith said. “By providing a model of integrated legal, migration and family violence support, combined with community education and engagement for migrant women from India, the initial pilot enabled participants to find safety and establish themselves free from risk of violence.

“This funding [from VLSB+C] means we can continue and expand that program [to more of the community].”

Ms Smith said the funding will enable NCLC to recruit a migration lawyer.

New uniform has heart A Mickleham school opening next year has unveiled the design of its uniforms and logo.

Holy Cross Catholic Primary School principal Mark Miatello said the logo featured three elements – a heart, cross and hands.

Mr Miatello said the elements represented the school’s motto of “Love, Hope and Unity”.

“I think the logo is very successful in representing the key messages of the cross, as well as the hills represented through the heart in the logo being unique to the area of Mickleham,” he said.

“It represents how we will all be journeying together at Holy Cross Mickleham.

“Our hero colour will be purple as purple is a regal colour and is the colour of Christ’s passion – a very significant colour in the life of the church.

“The grey represents the ash with which Catholic’s mark themselves with the cross during the season of lent, and green is the colour of hope.”

Mr Miatello said interest in the new school was high.

“There has been amazing enrolment interest for Holy Cross, not only for the prep year but across all levels as well,” he said.

“Families have been telling me how happy they are to have a new schooling option available to the community.”

The school is on schedule to open its doors in term one next year.

Michaela Meade

Holy Cross preps Sienna, Nina, Aaron and Messiah. (Damjan Janevski) 259015_01

Tuesday, 14 December, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 11

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Laptops level the playing field

By Oliver Lees A group of financially disadvantaged students across Hume and Whittlesea have been given a hand to improve their access to technology, in a bid to improve at-home learning outcomes across the state.

Not-for-profit organisation State Schools’ Relief (SSR) provides a source of advocacy for disadvantaged students across the state.

Across 2020-21, the organisation assisted more than 72,000 under age persons, with the average cost of assisting a child being $124.

This year the organisation’s focus has

‘‘

COVID-19 brought to light the digital divide

’’

- Sue Karzis shifted to at-home learning. In April SSR trialled a program in which they gave laptops to students completing their high school studies, with the scope of allowing them to retain them for their post-schooling career.

The organisation distributed 56 internet dongles and 41 laptops across Hume municipality and 38 internet dongles and 92

laptops in Whittlesea.

SSR chief executive Sue Karzis said technology had become a driving factor of disadvantage during the pandemic.

“COVID-19 brought to light the digital divide and the lack of access and equity to the digital tools required to engage with remote learning. This includes not only having a device, but also internet connectivity and access to a dedicated space in which to study,” Ms Karzis said.

“Students from vulnerable backgrounds are already starting at a disadvantage, and they need assistance to stay engaged with

their education, which I believe is a pathway to breaking the cycle of poverty.”

But Ms Karzis said the organisation was yet to reach its distribution of technology which can be used for educational purposes, which sees as the crucial stepping stone to improving learning outcomes.

The organisation has started an online donation portal to drive-up its capacity to provide technological support.

SSR is aiming to receive $500,000 to provide a total of 1000 laptops across the state.

Details: https://bit.ly/3I1XcMV

Road project drives on Another step forward will be taken in the Childs Road Upgrade in Mill Park, with traffic shifting onto newly built lanes to enable work to continue on the northern side of the road.

Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) announced that motorists were able to travel on the new southern carriageway lanes from Thursday, December 9.

Traffic will be shifted between Hawkes Drive and about 200 metres west of Crampton Crescent, MRPV said.

Crews will use the traffic switch to move ahead with works including asphalting, improving drainage, and installing new street lighting.

Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio said the upgrade would “slash” travel times.

Thomastown MP Bronwyn Halfpenny said the project would improve reliability for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians as they travel throughout the area.

While the works are under way, MRPV said only one lane will be open in each direction and a speed limit of 60km/h will apply.

Construction will also be carried out behind the barriers between 7am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday.

MRPV said the traffic modifications would take place between 9.30am and 3pm on school days to avoid affecting the busy school drop-off and pick-up times.

The upgrade is scheduled for completion in 2023.

Michaela Meade

Childs Road Upgrade senior project manager Dian Witono with Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio and ACE Infrastructure project manager Sean Healy. (Supplied)

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 55 already gone. We’re also continuing works to prepare for major construction on North East Link.

Road disruptions: Closed lanes

Mernda Line

From 9pm 2 to 9 Jan

Parliament to Reservoir

Greensborough Road

At times in Dec and Jan

Lanes closed

Hurstbridge Line

From 9pm 2 to 9 Jan

Parliament to Heidelberg

Bulleen Road

At times in Dec and Jan

Lanes closed

Eastern Freeway

Some nights in Dec and Jan

Lanes closed

SPA6951

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions

Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

12 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 14 December, 2021

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Bindi Wines in Gisborne is welcoming back visitors. Right: Bindi Wines’ Michael Dhillon hard at work.

BEHIND THE NEWS

(Pictures: Supplied/Bindi Wines)

Enjoy a day out among the vines Wineries across Melbourne’s west are welcoming back visitors after multiple lengthy COVID-19 lockdowns. Michaela Meade spoke to local winemakers about how it felt to throw open the cellar doors once more.

V

ictoria’s lockdowns to contain COVID-19 also shut down the much-loved experience of a day trip to a winery.

Staff at wineries across the state found themselves without customers to serve at the cellar door – the main source of income for the industry.

That was until the state opened up once more after a sixth lockdown, and the winemaking venues were able to have guests once more.

Shadowfax Winery in Werribee South has had bookings “flooding in” since being able to open again, according to general manager Phil Strachan.

‘‘

Shadowfax Winery in Werribee South is in high demand leading into Christmas.

“It’s great to be able to welcome back all our regular guests, who we have missed, and welcome new faces to our restaurant and cellar door,” Mr Strachan says.

“As soon as we announced that we were reopening, bookings started flooding in.

“It was so encouraging for us.

“Being so close to Christmas, the demand is high, but now that the weather is warmer and the days longer, we’re able to accommodate guests both inside and out … being able to welcome people back is the reward at the end of 18 very challenging months.”

Mr Strachan says the pandemic had impacted the restaurant side of the business, however the winemaking remained the same.

“We were fortunate to be able to offer a takeaway service during each lockdown … which allowed us to continue trading and keep our staff employed,” he says.

“For the wine side, it was business as usual and our winemaking team worked the whole way through, in the winery, testing and tasting wines, and ensuring that our vineyards were

meticulously maintained.”

Mr Strachan says the support from the residents of Wyndham was invaluable to keeping morale going.

“Without their loyalty, business and support, we wouldn’t be in the position we’re in,” he says.

One of the main attractions that visitors to Shadowfax Winery can enjoy coming up to the Christmas season is Friday Twilight sessions, Mr Strachan says.

“Featuring live music and our a la carte menu, people love the relaxed setting and atmosphere of our Friday nights,” he says.

“It’s also a great chance for people to catch up with friends, family and colleagues for dinner in the lead up to Christmas.”

Further away from the Melbourne CBD, Hanging Rock Winery in Newham is also “buzzing” since reopening, says direct-to-customer manager Michelle Toose.

Ms Toose says the winery staff were “super excited” to welcome back visitors to enjoy wine, the sculptural exhibition ‘Art in the Vines’, and a day out in the picturesque Macedon Ranges.

“The cellar door is buzzing again every day of the week, but especially the weekends with friends and families driving from Melbourne for a day out in nature,” Ms Toose says. “We

Seeing cars drive up the driveway again and the car park full on weekends brings us a lot of joy

’’

- Michelle Toose

(Pictures: Supplied/Shadowfax Winery)

are lucky to have so much space for everyone to spread out and enjoy our breathtaking views of Hanging Rock and the Macedon Ranges.”

Although the winery’s regional location meant it could remain open when the greater Melbourne area was locked down, Ms Toose says the absence of visitors from the city was very much felt.

“Cellar door numbers [were] not the same when Melbourne [was] in lockdown,” she says.

“We were very grateful that we could still open to regional visitors at times during the year, but we certainly missed our Melbourne friends.

“Seeing cars drive up the driveway again and the car park full on weekends brings us a lot of joy.”

Ms Toose says she would welcome any and all visitors to Hanging Rock Winery over the Christmas period, and recommends making a day of it to explore the wider Macedon Ranges area.

Bindi Wines in Gisborne had an unexpected aspect of its service thrive during the lockdowns, owner and generational winemaker Michael Dhillon says.

Mr Dhillon said throughout the pandemic, online orders became a main source of income

for the business.

He said the community had responded enthusiastically to the idea of purchasing wine online without leaving their houses.

“They responded very strongly which is understandable, of course, because people were restricted to being at home,” he says.

“They weren’t able to go to their favourite bars or restaurants or pubs and share wine, so they chose to do it at home.

“We received great support in that respect … the restaurant business closed for a considerable amount of time, but the retailers and mailing lists picked up the slack.”

Mr Dhillon, who was recognised as Winemaker of the Year at the 2022 Halliday Wine Companion awards, said the support from the local community was valuable for each winery, no matter the location.

“All the local wineries appreciate very much the support of our local community,” he says.

“We’ve got more and more good restaurants and independent wine shops who are supporting small, local wineries really well and it’s very much appreciated.”

Mr Dhillon says the industry had gone back to normal after a tough pandemic experience.

“It seems to be fully back in swing now.”

Tuesday, 14 December, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 13

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MY PLACE Gurinder Kaur is the new president of the Whittlesea Interfaith Network, a group comprised of people from different faiths coming together to “foster harmony”. She spoke to Michaela Meade about what brought her to the group, and what she wants to accomplish in the role.

What are some of your favourite memories?

The first and foremost memory is my daughter’s birth at the Northern Hospital in Epping.

Some of the other favourite memories include organising a Sikh Diwali event at Galada Community Centre and undertaking my radio broadcasting course with 88.6 Plenty Valley FM. Another favourite memory is winning the 2019 Westfield Plenty Valley Local Hero Award for taking interfaith tolerance to the next level.

How did you get involved in the Whittlesea Interfaith Network?

Back in 2016, one of my friends who was previously representing the Sikh community within the Whittlesea Interfaith Network contacted me, and asked if I could replace him and I agreed. At that time, I didn’t know much about Whittlesea Interfaith Network but I found the team very welcoming and liked the important work they do. Since then, I started being actively involved in Whittlesea Interfaith Network projects and being part of the network.

What do you hope to accomplish over your time as president?

I would like to get more youth involved from various faiths in the interfaith and partner with more organisations to deliver interfaith projects and events to promote peace and harmony. I also hope to showcase

(Supplied)

What’s your connection to Whittlesea?

When I first landed in Australia, I stayed in Lalor for a few weeks. Then after moving to a couple of suburbs outside the City of Whittlesea, we bought our first home in Epping in February, 2009. I have been living in Epping with my husband now for more than 12 years. Since then, I have been getting more active with local community projects and events. I also enjoy the nature, park and creeks within our municipality. I really feel very much connected to the City of Whittlesea, its places and the people.

Whittlesea Interfaith Network’s work by enhancing our online presence, especially in this unprecedented time the world is passing through.

Why did you join the Whittlesea Interfaith Network?

I joined to represent Sikh faith and to develop my interfaith understanding of diverse faiths within the City of Whittlesea. I believe dialogue is the key to restoring harmony and social cohesion and it’s important to be part of such an organisation where you can share your faith perspective and understand others’

perspectives, and learn about the faiths of others.

What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?

Being a Sikh baptised woman, I do wear a turban as part of my faith identity.

Today I do visit schools, workplaces and many community events sharing awareness about this identity and advocating for others who wear it.

But something that surprises others is knowing that I was not actually confident to wear the turban myself when I was in India, and I gained that confidence actually being in Australia. The reason for having that confidence in Australia was the acceptance and appreciation to follow one’s faith without discrimination.

What’s your favourite local cafe/restaurant and why?

While I enjoy food at many local cafes/ restaurants in the City of Whittlesea, one of my favourites is Anand’s Bakery Cafe in Lalor.

One reason for that is that I am vegetarian and this cafe bakes eggless cakes and pastries.

I also love their spicy sandwiches and coffee.

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

10 years ago

7 years ago

5 years ago

1 year ago

December 20, 2011

December 16, 2014

December 13, 2016

December 15, 2020

The start of a new term of Hume council has been marred by a stoush between councillors.

Whittlesea council has thrown its weight behind a grassroots campaign to stop a proposed residential development on a Doreen site bordered by wetlands

Whittlesea and Hume residents are being warned about the risk of grassfire this summer, as Victoria’s wet spring fuels rampant growth in the city fringes.

Whittlesea council has pulled the pin on Australia Day celebrations in 2021.

14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 14 December, 2021

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMENT

Translating for healthy results Christopher Carter, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network For many people, the main frustration involved in making an appointment to see a GP is finding a slot that fits in around all the other commitments in a busy life.

It’s easy to forget that for some people accessing our primary healthcare system isn’t as simple.

Last year we looked at after-hours medical care in our region and realised that there was something unusual going on.

We discovered that in the evenings and on weekends there were quite a lot of people presenting at hospital emergency departments, seeking treatment for ailments and minor injuries that could be more appropriately dealt with by GPs. Now, there will always be people who, understandably enough, become anxious when they feel unwell and so head directly to hospital. This phenomenon, though, did not account for the sheer number of people turning up at emergency departments, at odd times, for comparatively minor matters.

Then, looking more closely and consulting with hospital staff, we found that many of these patients shared a particular characteristic – English was not their first language.

In response, we asked the Ethnic Communities’ Council of Victoria (ECCV) to look into the matter and funded them to prepare a report.

After many months of work, that report was published last week.

The ECCV researchers discovered that many people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds were unable to find general practitioners fluent in their own language. Translated written material was also in very short supply.

Finding interpreters – especially in less commonly spoken languages – was also

North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network is trialling a new assessment tool to support GPs to become more culturally responsive.

tricky. Even when they could be found, they were often not available at the time of booked appointments, especially after-hours – and sometimes weren’t able to accurately translate medical terms.

These issues often led to people not being able to get their heads around the primary healthcare system. Some therefore chose to avoid it because it seemed confusing, and some concluded (wrongly but understandably) that they were not eligible to access it. Others had arrived in Australia from countries with health systems that did not have an equivalent sector.

No wonder so many were opting to visit

always-open emergency departments rather than hunt around for a GP with the appropriate language and cultural skills!

As a result of this research, we are continuing to work with the ECCV and other bodies to try to improve how general practices greet, treat and support people for whom English is not a first language.

There is, obviously, no easy fix. Already, though, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network is trialling a new assessment tool designed to support GP clinic teams becoming more culturally responsive.

We’ve also taken a lead in translating health

(iStock)

messages into various languages and are always advocating for other health and medical bodies to follow suit.

There are scores of languages spoken in Melbourne, especially in the northern and western regions. Our dream is for everyone to be able to easily find and access a doctor who can speak directly to them, and to provide them with the care and assistance that those of us fluent in English all too often take for granted.

It won’t be simple and it won’t be fast, but I think it will happen. Because this is Melbourne – and Melbourne cares.

Damjan Janevski’s winning photo, and Tara Murray’s winning story.

Star Weekly takes out awards Star Weekly picked up three gongs at this year’s Victorian Country Press Association media awards.

The annual awards were held last Friday, with Star Weekly receiving the awards for Best Sports Story (over 6000 circulation), Best News Photo (over 6000 circulation) and Best Digital Advertisement.

Reporter Tara Murray took the award for Best Sports Story for her piece on Molly Jovic’s journey from the City West Falcons to the Suncorp Super Netball competition.

The judge described the story as “simple but engaging”, commending for Murray for her effort to tell the story of a sportsperson “who appears to be something of accidental star”.

“Much like the netballer she is writing about, this piece from Tara Murray shows just how much impact you can have when the basics are well executed,” the judge said.

Photographer Damjan Janevski won the award for Best News Photo for his image of wheel gymnastics course participants during a summer holiday intensive program in

Werribee in January. The judge said Janevski’s image took top spot in the category due to the obvious effort put into perfectly arranging the subjects before pushing the shutter release.

“The photograph immediately captures the readers’ attention due to the very good use of framing.”

Wyndham Star Weekly’s advertisement for Federation Village, designed by creative designer John Anastasiou, won the Best Digital Advertisement Award.

“This is a well laid out advertisement,”

the judge said. “The main image is engaging and appropriate for the target audience. The messaging is clear, easy to understand, and comprehensive without being cluttered. The price point dropping down is particularly eye catching and encourages click-through.”

Overall, the Star News Group picked up six of the 33 gongs at the awards, with the Pakenham Gazette winning Best News Photo (2000 – 6000 circulation), Best News Story (2000-6000) and Best Community Campaign (2000-6000).

Tuesday, 14 December, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 15

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

Storytime with Santa Santa will visit the Broadmeadows library, Sunbury library and Craigieburn library to read a Christmas story to the children of Hume. He will be at Broadmeadows library on Monday, December 20, from 2pm, at Sunbury library on Monday, December 22, from 10am, and at Craigieburn library on Wednesday, December 22, from 11am. This is a free event where children can take photos with Santa and make Christmas craft to take home.

■ 9356 6900

This week’s photographer’s choice photograph is of Flynn, 9, and Amelia, 6, at the Melbourne Airport viewing area.

(Damjan Janevski) 260894_01

Relaxation and Mindfulness Learn to relax through guided meditation at a relaxation and mindfulness session hosted by the Homestead Community and Learning Centre. Starting with gentle movement and stretches ideal for people that are sitting for long periods of time. Includes mindfulness tasks designed to relieve stress and regulate emotions. The next session will be online via Zoom on Tuesday, December 21, 7.15-8pm.

■ https://bit.ly/3dp27JS

Santa’s pool parties Join Santa for some free festive fun in the pools this Christmas! No booking required. Events are open to everyone in the community. The jolly red man will be at Broadmeadows Aquatic and Leisure Centre on Sunday, December 19, from 1-4pm, and Splash Aqua Park and Leisure Centre on Friday, December 17, from 6-9pm.

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. The series of images are available to view for free, and are presented by Hume Arts Youth Award 2020 recipient, Filipe Filihia.

■ https://bit.ly/3BTguQl

Rotary club The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 7pm.

■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

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

chat. Lunch subsidised. If you’re over 55 years of age and would like to meet new people, come along.

■ Frank, 0423 392 884

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. The group will meet at the centre at 1pm, every second Friday.

■ 9311 9973

Football Taylors Lakes Football Club is seeking male and female players for all age groups from under-8s to under-18.5s. To be eligible, children need to be born between July 1, 2003, and April 30, 2015.

■ Julie, 0409 259 389

Female cricket 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, from 12.30-3.30pm.

Burnside Springs United is looking for players for its women’s program for the upcoming 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

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

Probus The Keilor Combined Probus Club is back in business following the lockdowns. The group meets the third Monday of every month at Keilor Pub, with the next meeting on January 17, 10am-noon. New members are welcome.

■ Steve, 0408 193 793, or Keith, 0409 494 801

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 16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 14 December, 2021

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

■ Shaun, 0455 521 154

BinGO MOVE

Heritage walks

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

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

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

Sunshine Softball Club is after junior players as the club kicks off its new season. The club is running a Come N Try Softball Batter Up program which is ideal for beginners, but is open to all new and returning players aged between five and 10. The program is a fun and engaging skill based program introducing players to the basics of our fantastic game with qualified coaches.

Equipment is supplied.

■ http://ow.ly/TOez50GHXku

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

Sunshine United Cricket Club

The Westgate diabetes support group meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am.

■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

Musicians welcome Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join its community band. Rehearsals are held Mondays from 7.30pm at the Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newport. Visitors and interested musicians any age most welcome.

■ Roger Lewis, hbcityband@gmail.com, or www.hbcb.org.au

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 AL-ANON meets

Softball

Diabetes support group

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.

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 Fibro/CFS 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

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.

The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton.

■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

FREE

FEBRUARY 9, 2021 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

12477073-SG03-21

FORTNIGHTLY! Pick up your favourite local newspaper, the Northern Star Weekly from local outlets listed below or subscribe to our digital edition and have it sent to your device every fortnight.

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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

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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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FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING

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Benefits of respite care •฀฀Quality฀care฀24฀hours,฀seven฀ days฀a฀week •฀฀Peace฀of฀mind฀knowing฀your฀ loved฀one฀is฀being฀looked฀after฀ in฀a฀supportive฀and฀comfortable฀ environment.

•฀฀Provides฀structure฀and฀routine฀ for฀their฀personal,฀social฀and฀ care฀needs.

•฀฀Reduces฀carer฀stress฀by฀ providing฀an฀opportunity฀to฀rest฀ and฀recharge,฀both฀necessary฀to฀ prevent฀burnout.

•฀฀Professionally฀prepared฀meals฀ from฀our฀experienced฀chefs •฀฀Rest,฀rejuvenate฀and฀recharge฀ while฀your฀loved฀one฀is฀cared฀for฀ and฀cared฀about.

McKenzie Aged Care Services will put your mind at rest and care for your loved one while you are away.

Planning a trip but worried about care for a loved one?

If you are planning a holiday over the festive season and have concerns as to who will take care of your loved one while you’re away, then let McKenzie Aged Care solve that problem for you.

After a long year of lockdowns and border closures, it is great to know Australians are now able to start taking holidays interstate again. With Christmas and the New Year right

around the corner, in amongst all the planning and running around, it can be challenging to find the time to organise how your loved one will be best taken care of during this busy period.

This is where McKenzie Aged Care can help.

Its respite care provides relief for carers who are in need of a break or need that support over busy periods.

As a carer, you will have peace of mind knowing your loved one is receiving the best in quality care, while you take some much-needed personal time to rest and rejuvenate. For your loved one, they will enjoy a two week stay in a secure and safe home among friendly and caring staff. Socialising with other residents will also alleviate any isolation and loneliness while benefiting their health and wellbeing.

The dedicated team will support you in the steps towards getting the necessary care for your loved one.

Your nearest McKenzie Aged Care home is The Ashley in Reservoir. If you are considering a well-deserved break over the festive period, phone 1300 899 222 or visit www.mckenzieacg.com.

“Everyone “All theat staff have been excellent.

The Ashley care They make each aboutresident our loved ones feel worthy and special.” as if they are family.”

– Bob Jones, Edna’s son.

– Sharon, daughter of The Ashley resident.

Our Victorian Residences: Our Victorian Residences: Lynbrook Park

The Ashley 42 Olive Road, Lynbrook 17-21 Ashley Street, Reservoir The Ashley 17-21 Ashley Street, Reservoir Lynbrook Park Rosebrook 42 Olive Road, Lynbrook

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Rosebrook 1 Innisfallen Avenue, Templestowe 441 Waterfall Gully Road, Rosebud Sutton Park We believe that everyone deserves to live the happiest We understand that the decision to join our life they can. So by providing the right care, the very We believe that everyone deserves to live the happiest We understand that the decision to join our you see for yourself the level of care and compassion best professionals, beautiful surroundings and caring life they can. So by providing the right care, the very our residents enjoy, you’ll want to call McKenzie home.

best professionals, beautiful surroundings and caring

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

Newmans on the Park 33 Newmans Road, Templestowe Charlesbrook 1 Innisfallen Avenue, Templestowe

1300 899 222 | mckenzieacg.com 12513913-JW41-21

Tuesday, 14 December, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 19

Advertising feature

Give your home a fresh, green look Any space in the home can easily be freshened up by adding some bright new greenery. While real plants are sometimes preferred, there are so many reasons to shop from an artificial plant and floral range.

A

high quality of Home and Garden Decor products to the northern suburbs - we aim to make these products very affordable and on trend, and we are always increasing our range with the latest styles,” Tony said. “Our friendly staff can assist you with any project or idea you may have to make your place the envy of others. Thank you for supporting your local business!”

To ensure your home maintains a personal touch, the pots and planters at Home and Garden Decor are the perfect option to help you style your new plants.

Adding a pot can really help to elevate the overall look of your greenery and is the perfect way to show your personal style, with pots and planters available in store only at the Heidelberg Heights store.

Proudly Australian owned, Home and Garden Decor owner Tony Fantasia is happy to provide great quality products to residents of the local area.

“We are very excited to be bringing a

Home and Garden Decor is located at 90-92 Bell Street, Heidelberg Heights. For more information, visit www.hgdco.com.au or phone 1800 191 197.

Home and Garden Decor supply a wide variety of articial plants, perfect low-maintenance additions to spice up your home. (Pictures: Supplied) 12525527-HC51-21

rtificial plants are perfect for those who lack the time to care for real plants – no need to re-pot, water, fertilise or prune – leaving your space looking great without the need for the constant upkeep and maintenance.

Perfect for low-lit rooms where real plants wouldn’t survive or households where there may be a curious pet or toddler, the range at Home and Garden Decor is expertly crafted to ensure that all plants and floral remain as lifelike as possible so you can enjoy the benefits of greenery in the home without the hassle.

Plants and greenery have been attributed to a range of benefits such as increased productivity, increased creativity while also helping to lower stress levels.

With so many people spending so much more time working from home, adding that greenery to your home office space can be extremely beneficial.

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www.hgdco.com.au @homeandgarden.decor

Showroom Austin Hospital

Advertising feature

Students put service into action T

he Kilmore International School aims to develop the spiritual, intellectual, cultural, physical and social capabilities of all of its students in a disciplined and caring environment, as well as to encourage and nurture their individual talents and abilities. The school also aims to instill in students a responsibility to be of service to the community as encouraging, constructive citizens that show consideration for others.

With this in mind, the school is proud to have enacted a whole school initiative called Our90, representing commitment to service and to making a positive difference to the lives of others.

In the lead up to and during the final week of school for the year, students and staff across the middle and senior years collaborated and took time to give, connect with others and share experiences in meaningful ways. The whole school event was inspired by Mandela Day, where South African citizens are encouraged to spend 67 minutes of their time in service to others in need. The 67 minutes are in appreciation of the 67 years that Nelson Mandela spent fighting for social justice.

The school’s interpretation of 90 minutes comes from its inception date of 1990.

Middle year students created and displayed art in shire gardens, designed Christmas cards and baked Christmas treats for local aged care residents.

Senior year students packaged surplus school stationery supplies to give to the Cambodian Kids Foundation and coordinated a donation drive for local charity Love in Action.

Senior students at the school have been working hard to organise charity drives. (Supplied)

As each year draws to a conclusion, the school will enact Our90 to thoughtfully consider the community and their own ideas and experiences, in order to demonstrate empathy, compassion and respect for one another.

Enrolments for The Kilmore International School remain open, with applications available for 2022-2023 across all year levels. Limited places have become available for the 2022 intake of year 7 students.

Numerous scholarship opportunities are also available, including academic and innovation scholarships, open for applicants wishing to enrol in 2023 – details will be on the school website very soon.

Details for enrolments and scholarship opportunities can be found on the school website at www.kilmore.vic.edu.au.

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

The Kilmore International School encourages students to be of service to the community as encouraging, constructive citizens that show consideration for others. (Supplied)

Step toward excellence Enrol Now 2022–2023

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Tuesday, 14 December, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 21

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Please give us a loving home!

Hetty Ingleby

Percy Ingleby

rmain

Frankie Quarte

Female DSH her true Age: 9 months home will allow sweet. A loving u? yo Frankie is very th . Will that be wi colors to shine

Male Pomeranian X Sheltie Age: 14 years 11 months Percy is an affable boy. He loves his walks, car rides, cuddles and going to the park to meet other dogs.

12503374-CG51-21

Female DSH Age: 12 year s H et ty is an af fe an d ju st w an ct io na te gi rl. Sh e en jo ys ts to sh are yo he ad ru bs ur ev er yd ay.

ury

Wombat Macafferty Male Wolfhound X Age: 6 months is smart and loving.

Check out those cute ears! Wombat home. e activ fun, a for His paws are crossed

Vespa Lynd Kidgerb

Georgie Macafferty Female Blue Heeler X Age: 12 years Georgie is very full of life. She enjo ys playing fetch and loves to be in the company of peop le.

Female Ragdoll Age: 1 year er and will give tted and fussed ov Vespa loves to be pa . urn mp in ret you a loving head bu

As adoption of our beautiful furry friends is a lifetime commitment, there is an adoption process which includes a meet and greet, a property check and an adoption fee.

VICTORIAN DOG RESCUE Our Goal Is To No Longer Be Needed Victorian Dog Rescue & Resource Group Inc (VicDRG) has been proactive in animal welfare since organisation and registered charity whose goal is to stop the killing in pounds and shelters, by helping our companion animals in need, and promoting responsible pet to retrain dogs and cats that have been unfortunate enough to have a neglected background. We will keep a dog or cat in our care for as long as it takes. If we do not have a suitable foster carer we will hold them at commercial kennels until one is found.

Please help our organisation continue doing what we do by adopting these beautiful pets.

Are you a senior, have a health problem and can’t keep your pet? There are alternatives to the pound – please contact us

www.victoriandogrescue.org.au Contact us via email rescue@victoriandogrescue.org.au 22 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 14 December, 2021

Is Your Dog Getting Older?

Your passport Your pet’s dog may not be to get home safely seeing well, getting stiff Dothe youjoints, know and the even 15-digit in a number of your dog’s or cat’s little crabby.

There are microchip? If not, ask your vet many to scanthings your petyou and can note do the number. to make your dog’s life more comfortable. A lot every 100 numbers are not of older dogs, especially recorded on the database for various reasons, for small ones thatexample, live if your pet came from New longer, end up with bad South Wales they may be on a teeth. A good dental can showtheir up ingeneral Victoria. To check help health. your pet’s number is recorded correctly,Cataracts you can visit www. petaddress.com andon type in can be operated and the number. If it doesn’t show can a nearly blind up as help an existing number, ask dogvet see clearlyit again. your to correct for you.

If If theyour number dogis not hasregistered poor to you, you can ring the vision stopthe walking registrydon’t to update details orhim. your vet canappreciate also do this for He’ll you.

even more all the new

There are many microchipped scents nearby pets sittingininthe pounds while park.

There are for ways their families search them, so it’scan worth taking theseand few you help a deaf simple steps to protect your even pet. blind dog cope by

using vibrations or If you floor have general queries about thescents microchipping different on the system, contact us via email: walls. Most of all your rescue@victoriandogrescue. dog org.auneeds reassurance that you’re there and Trisha Taylor, looking afterPresident, him. Don’t Victorian Dog Rescue & give up on himIncbecause Resource Group he is old. You will be one day too.

With nearly 2000 stockists throughout Australia & New Zealand, our lip lickingly delish treats are only a short dog walk away!

Grab the lead, or search our website for your nearest stockist.

PUZZLES No. 059

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 2 3 6 9 8 3 5 2 4 6 9 8 6

5 8 4 6 1

7 2 9

5 3 1 2

4

6

2 7 3

4

8

3 4 5 6 7

ACROSS Beverage powder (5) Moth or butterfly pupa (9) Island off the coast of Victoria (7) Musically poetical (7) In a state of disorder (7) Student (7) Thus (9) Black (4) Sulk (4) Male athlete (9) Having sharp corners (7) Grandmother (colloq.) (7) Nutty (7) Libyan capital (7) Arranged (9) Japanese comics (5)

1 4 9 10 11 12 13 15 17 19 22 25 26 27 28 29

8 14 15 16 18 20 21 23 24

No. 059

Designated amount (9) Roomy (9) Noblemen (5) Comedian, — Silverman (5) Relating to the surrounding area (7) Pay (6) Extended (9) Social exclusion (9) Actress, — Jolie (8) Continuing (7) Rainy season storm (7) Gambling house (6) A language (5) Frameworks holding goods (5)

DOWN Maximum limit on containment (9) Prevailing weather (7)

1 2

medium

7

QUICK CROSSWORD

DECODER

No. 059

1 3 9

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

6 3

8 9 2

9 6

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

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

1

P R 21

22

23

24

25

26

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

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”.

N

Today’s Aim: 9 words: Good 13 words: Very good 18 words: Excellent

H

N

L

B

G C

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. In game one of the BBL season, what score were the Melbourne Stars bowled out for against the Sydney Sixers?

2. And which 36-year-old spinner took 4/14, his career-best T20 figures?

3. Which driver took pole position and won the 2021 Bathurst 1000, with codriver Lee Holdsworth?

4. In which country will the final of the 2021/22 EUFA Champions League be held?

5. Which veteran English fast bowler sat out the First Test in preparation for the day-night Second Test?

6. Recently retired AFL player Jacob Townsend played for how many teams in his 62-game career?

7. American racehorse Medina Spirit died in December seven months after winning which famous horse race?

8. Perth Scorchers' WBBL winning cricket captain Sophie Devine is from which country?

9. Which country holds a famous annual cheeserolling event in which participants race down a hill to try to capture a round of cheese?

10. The Russian Tennis Federation defeated which country to win the 2020/21 Davis Cup?

13. In what country was Olympic champion canoeist Jess Fox born?

Daria Gavrilova

14. What country announced a diplomatic boycott of the upcoming 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics?

15. What city recently lost the right to host the Fifth Ashes Test in 2022?

16. 1981 saw the creation of which Australian women’s sporting competition?

17. Australian Test captain Pat Cummins has played his entire domestic career for which state?

23. Which team did Chelsea defeat 3-0 to win the recent Women's FA Cup Final?

18. Which Australian was awarded the 2021 WTA player of the year award?

24. Who is the current head coach of Australia's men's national rugby union team?

19. What motor racing competition was founded in Daytona Beach in 1948?

25. What did Australian tennis professionals Daria Gavrilova and Luke Saville do on December 4 of this year?

20. What team will Tayla Harris play for in the 2022 AFLW competition?

11. What 2007 Marvel film was partially filmed at Marvel Stadium?

21. Recently retired footballer Brad Sheppard played 216 games for which AFL club?

12. What NRL team was John Asiata contracted to play for in 2022 before deciding to quit over vaccination requirements?

22. The WTA announced they will suspend all tournaments in China over concerns for the welfare of which tennis professional?

26. Illness and injury has forced which British boxer to withdraw from an upcoming fight with YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul?

28. Which London-born basketballer has reportedly elected not to be part of Australia's squad for the 2022 FIBA Women's World Cup? 29. Professional golfer Thorbjørn Olesen hails from which Nordic country?

30. The Memphis Grizzlies recently defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder by what number of points, a new NBA record?

27. Penrith Panther hooker Api Koroisua has signed with which team for the 2023 NRL season?

Jake Paul 1712

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Everest works on the big things

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring Everest, the highest mountain on earth, is subject to constant change at the hands of the forces of nature. Similarly, the eponymous Ford sports utility vehicle has had several updates since its introduction to Australia in 2016.

Everything about the sports utility vehicle – radiator grille, rear end, guards and wheels, even badging - was designed to make the SUV appear as big as possible.

At close to five metres long, more than two metres wide and almost two metres tall, the dimensions also made for a spacious and versatile cabin capable of carrying up to seven occupants and gear in relative comfort.

The seven-seat 4WD wagon came in three variants - Ambiente, Trend and Titanium – priced from $54,990, plus on-road costs, topping out with the Titanium at $22,000 later.

The mid-range Trend cost $60,990.

The MY19 upgrade took on a new-generation powertrain, which included a bi-turbo, four-cylinder diesel engine, mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission; and a raft of the latest safety systems and convenience features, as well as a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and further service benefits.

The Trend bi-turbo enjoyed only a small rise in pricing over the preceding single-turbo model. Now, in front of a completely redesign for 2022, the Everest, sports a new grille and premium technology, with the Trend 2.0-litre four-wheel drive, on test, leading the way at $62,390, plus on-roads.

Styling Ford Everest’s rugged appearance have all variants holding ground with any rival. The Trend scores features such as 18-inch alloy wheels and running boards, while the square shaped rear of many traditional SUVs is replaced by Everest’s sculpted tail lamps, with integrated LED lighting.

Trend is further switched on with HID headlamps with auto levelling function, LED day-time running lights, plus hands-free power lift tailgate.

Interior The cabin is a genuine seven-seater. Flexible second-row seats have 60 / 40 split, and power-fold third-row seats with 50 / 50 split, can be folded flat, providing 2010 litres of versatile cargo space with a class-leading payload of up to 750 kg.

Joining the features for Trend are leather accented seat trim (third-row occupants miss out), leather trimmed gear lever and eight-way power driver’s seat with manual lumbar support.

Boot space in the seven-seater is a claimed 249 litres with all seats up and in use; 876 litres with the third-row seats down; and 1796 litres with the second row down.

Infotainment Standard Trend features include Ford’s SYNC 3 multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 8.0-inch full-colour

touchscreen and 10-speaker audio system, The high resolution 8-inch colour touchscreen in the Interior Command Centre is one of the easiest on the market to view and operate.

The up-to-date design of the instrumentation cluster, which incorporates dual 4-inch colour screens, is a competent companion.

An AM/FM/CD audio system with DAB+ digital and 10 speakers is augmented by AUX/ iPod/ USB/SD card input ports. Voice control works with simple commands for many vehicle and convenience systems and emergency assistance connects drivers with emergency responders in a serious collision.

Engines / transmissions The bi-turbo diesel engine in the Everest Trend is puts out maximum power of 157 kW at 3750 rpm and top torque of 500 Nm between 1750 and 2500 revolutions.

The package adds a ten-speed automatic transmission and has the option of rear or four-wheel drive.

Safety With a five-star safety rating the Trend pre-collision assist and pedestrian detection with the autonomous emergency braking system and traffic sign recognition.

There are seven airbags, including driver’s knee airbag. Dynamic stability control with roll stability control, ABS anti-skid brakes with electronic brake force distribution, traction control and emergency brake assist are constantly active when on the move.

Parking is made easy with the use of a rear-view camera, plus audible sensors front and rear.

Driving The bi-turbo diesel motor, which pumps out 157 kW of power and a fat 500 Nm of torque (10 kW and 30 Nm more than its predecessor), pushing the big SUV to new heights.

Overtaking on the highway, for example, is only a matter of easing the accelerator pedal forward and the power needed is presented smoothly, making the sometimes ticklish manoeuvre a breeze.

Gone is the fiddly old-style ignition key; replaced by push-button engine start / stop and new gear shifter.

Fuel consumption topped 12 litres per 100 kilometres in mixed traffic conditions and 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres on the open road.

Unique five-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels and sleek side panels emphasise on-road character, while generous ground clearance (225 mm) and 800 mm wading depth get the Everest ready for anything off the bitumen.

Shortcomings - short being the operative word – rest with the rear seats, the third row, when in use, offers little head room for an adult making more than short journeys a chore.

Getting in and out is quite a step up too.

However, occupants have the advantage of dual zone climate control and more than 30 stowage spots totalling 48 litres (the glovebox can take a 16-inch laptop), while sound insulating materials and active noise cancellation technology make for a quiet cabin.

AT A GLANCE MODEL LINE-UP Ambiente 3.2 RWD: $50,090 Ambiente 3.2 4WD: $55,090 Trend 2.0 RWD: $57,090 Trend 3.2 4WD: $60,890 Trend 2.0 4WD: $62,390 BaseCamp 3.2 4WD: $63,090 BaseCamp 2.0 4WD: $64,590 Sport 2.0 RWD: $60,090 Sport 3.2 4WD: $62,890 Sport 2.0 4WD: $64,390 Titanium 2.0 4WD: $73,190

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

Summary Despite no longer being an Australian vehicle manufacturer, Ford maintains a large cohort of designers and engineers Downunder This goes a long way to giving Aussies what they

want in the Everest range, a fact destined to be emphasised with the release of an all-new model next year.

The Ford Everest is big on features inside and out. (Pictures: Supplied)

26 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 14 December, 2021

Reigning champs lose title after Dockerty loss Hume City was unable to keep its title as Dockerty Cup champions, losing 1-0 to Avondale in the competition final last week.

The reigning champions were unsuccessful in what was a “typical” final match, according to coach Nick Hegarty.

He said Hume suffered from fatigue, having come up against Melbourne City in an FFA Cup round of 16 match just five days earlier.

“We just ran out of legs,” he said.

“As the game went on, the physical and mental fatigue left us a bit short.

“It was a contest, not one really for the football purists.”

Hegarty said it was not a standout game for either side.

He said the ground conditions and weather negatively impacted the teams, with the match ending up being a “game of percentages”.

“It’s often a mistake or a bit of quality from somebody that decides games like that.”

Hume suffered a blow when captain Hayden Tennant was red-carded in the 72nd minute.

Avondale was also a man down six minutes later when Liam Boland was red-carded.

Avondale’s Stefan Valentini scored a penalty in the 84th minute, which decided the match.

Hegarty said it was “just one of those things”.

“That’s life, that’s football,” Hegarty said.

“There’s only one winner in a final, so we just get up and we go again.”

Hegarty said newly minted players Lucas Trenkovski and Birhan Elibol – who both made their senior debuts last month – did very well.

“Both Lucas and Birhan had great games again,” he said. “[They] really put themselves in contention to be starting the first game of next season, that’s for sure.”

Hegarty said he was proud of how the side had competed overall in their 2021 competitions.

As well as making the Dockerty Cup final,

Nick Hegarty. (Shawn Smits)

Hume made the final 16 of the FFA Cup and was sitting fourth on the ladder when the National Premier League season was called off.

Hegarty said that for a group of young players, with not much experience, 2021 had been a good year.

“To go through three or four COVID breaks,

[and] to keep themselves in the condition to be able to come back and push themselves [is great],” he said. “[To get] very close to getting a result against Melbourne City and then back it up five days later, playing against a team [that is] completely fresh, completely fit, who’d been preparing for us for three weeks, whereas we’ve prepared for them [with] no sessions at all based on the time period that we had, has been incredible.

“It’s all credit to them and all credit to my staff in the club that have allowed them to produce those performances.”

Hegarty said the players would have “plenty of time” to get back to full strength after a break over summer.

He said the side would look to make a challenge for a top position in the 2022 NPL competition.

Michaela Meade

Old Paradians waiving footy fees for 2022

Greenvale Kangaroo’s Harry Singh and, below, Josh Lalor. (Pictures: Supplied)

Roos learn their lessons

By Michaela Meade Greenvale Kangaroos are taking lessons out of every loss in the Victorian Premier Cricket season, according to coach Damian Shanahan.

The Kangaroos have had a difficult start to their season, losing matches against Melbourne, St Kilda and Melbourne University.

They are currently sitting last on the ladder.

Shanahan said as a young side, the team was still learning their skillsets, but he was pleased with how the side had approached each game.

“We’ve played super powerhouses to start the season off,“ he said.

“With Melbourne, which was a fantastic contest … To be brutally honest, we should have won that game.

“We were in position to win … we just didn’t take the advantage when the advantage was there to be taken.

“So that’s something we obviously learned as a young group and we try to put into action for the future. It’s another experience gained.

“Then [against] St Kilda, we got obliterated in that game. “[St Kilda scored] 300 plus, [and have] a stockpile of Victorian players, state talent players, as far as age group, so you’re up against it when you’re a young, developing side.

“Then against [Melbourne University], we were probably potentially 30-40 runs short of being really competitive.

“We had some really positive things come out of it.”

Shanhan said there were no “panic stations” about the losses.

He said the team knows where they are at, and what they need to do for the remainder of the season – continue learning.

The 2021-22 season marks Shanahan’s second with the Kangaroos.

Shanahan said he was still putting the “jigsaw puzzle” together for the season.

“It takes a while to get synergy with the

players, and try to push the club forward,” he said. “We’re a club where we’re really looking at the bigger picture of things.

“It’s not just a 12-month process, it’s more of a longer term plan that’s in place, at my end, it’s a three-to-five-year journey. “[We’re aimed at] making it super competitive across the board, in all four grades.

“That’s going to take some time.”

Shanahan said the team’s development had experienced some setbacks throughout the year, including the COVID-19 disruptions and time he spent overseas in the Middle East, coaching at the T20 World Cup. Shanahan got out of mandatory quarantine and it was straight into the first game for the season.

“The weather hasn’t been kind to us, either, [in terms of] being able to train the way we want to train,” Shanahan said.

“It’s been difficult to get full training sessions in.

“There’s a variety of different things that have been roadblocks but, at the end of the day, I’m loving it.

“Every week’s a new challenge for us, and every week’s an opportunity to improve.”

The Kangaroos were set to play Northcote at the weekend, after deadline.

Old Paradians Football Club has announced “fee free football” for all of its players for 2022.

The club received formal sign-off on the decision from the Victorian Amateur Football Association, and will not require the payment of annual fees from any players next year.

Old Paradians Football Club committee member Damian Hannam said following on from the COVID-19 pandemic and its impacts on the 2020 and 2021 seasons, the club had reviewed its expectations of players.

He said the game had been a bit of a struggle, and that players had been affected on many levels, including mentally.

“We wanted [to do the fee free football] as a bit of an encouragement, to get all the players back, and to hopefully encourage some new players to come to the club,” Hannam said.

“But we also recognise that the financial situation of some people might have taken a hit over this COVID time.

“We’ve put [the fee free football] in place so that it’s not a barrier for people to come and play footy.

“As a general rule, clubs require the players to pay a subscription of registration every year.

“The financial situation of some people may lead to them saying ‘I can’t afford to play footy’, and we don’t want that.”

Hannam said appreciation from the existing playing group was high, and feedback about the decision was positive.

“It’s important that the [playing group] knows that we’re not just there for them as an avenue to play football, but as an avenue to hang out with their friends, and have a release,” he said.

“If we give them that opportunity, uninhibited [by] having to pay registration fees, then that can only be a good thing.”

According to the Old Paradians’ Association’s Facebook page, senior players were required to pay $360 in annual fees for 2021, while under-19s players paid $120.

Michaela Meade Tuesday, 14 December, 2021 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 27

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