Star Weekly - Northern - 11th January 2022 by Star Weekly

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11 JANUARY, 2022

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A year interrupted YEAR IN REVIEW ... THE YEAR THAT WAS

The former Ford factory in Campbellfield was transformed into a vaccine hub in August.

illegally by outsourcing its fines review process. The council vowed to set up an infringement refund scheme for all motorists who unsuccessfully appealed an infringement between 2006 and 2016. In mid-April, Hume council decided to take Bulla’s toxic soil fight to the Supreme Court, challenging Planning Minister Richard Wynne’s decision to approve Hi-Quality Group’s planning scheme amendment for its Sunbury Road site on March 29. In May, a state government proposal to build a 500-bed COVID-19 quarantine hub in Mickleham divided the community and sparked concerns infections could rise in the area. On May 18, Star Weekly revealed that millions of dollars of emergency services facilities pledged for Craigieburn between 2016 and 2018 are yet to be built. The state government had promised to build a new ambulance station, SES station and fire

(Damjan Janevski) 248120_09

station, but none of the projects have been delivered. At the end of May, mass vaccination clinics opened at Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre in South Morang and Town Hall Broadmeadows as Victoria endured it’s second lockdown for 2021, which lasted 14 days from May 27-June 10. Melbourne was placed back into lockdown for 12 days on July 15. The city re-entered lockdown just nine days later. In September, health officials named parts of the northern suburbs, including Craigieburn, as areas of concern as the number of COVID-19 infections in the region continued to grow. Meanwhile, Campbellfield’s former Ford Factory was transformed into a vaccination hub in a bid to drive up vaccination rates in the northern suburbs. But just a few weeks later, prominent

figures in Melbourne’s north were celebrating the area’s success in increasing COVID-19 vaccination rates, transforming Hume and Whittlesea from the state’s least vaccinated areas to two of the areas with the highest first dose rates. Also in September, Hume councillor Jodi Jackson called for a monitor to be appointed to oversee the council in a bid to resolve “deep cultural issues among councillors”. On October 27, Melbourne took its first steps out of its sixth COVID lockdown and gyms, shopping centres and cinemas across Whittlesea and Hume threw open their doors as the northern suburbs roared back to life. But in November, the toll of lockdowns and high COVID-19 infection rates on Hume’s workforce was revealed, with the municipality recording the state’s highest unemployment rate.

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

Find us on Facebook www.westgarthtown.org.au

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2021 was meant to be the year that life returned to normal. Instead we found ourselves bouncing in and out of lockdowns as a new COVID-19 variant made its way to Australia. As the Delta variant took hold in Victoria, Melbourne earned the title as the most locked-down city in the world, notching up 267 days in lockdown since March 2020. Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs once again bore the brunt of Victoria’s COVID infections as the state’s third wave surged through households in Wyndham, Hobsons Bay, Brimbank, Hume, Melton, Whittlesea and Maribyrnong that were not yet eligible for vaccination. At the peak of the third wave, Hume, Wyndham, Brimbank, Melton and Whittlesea were the five most-infected local government areas in Victoria. But as more vaccinations became available, residents of Melbourne’s north and west turned out in record numbers to be jabbed, helping to halt Delta’s spread and enabling the city to reopen in time for Christmas. We look back at how 2021 unfolded across the northern suburbs. In February as the state emerged from its first lockdown of the year – a five-day “circuit breaker” lockdown which ended on February 17 – there was anger in Whittlesea and Hume after all aged care homes in both municipalities were left off the federal government’s week one COVID-19 vaccination schedule. Former Hume mayor and Japara Goonawarra Aged Care resident Jack Ogilvie called for the government to review the roll-out and prioritise aged care homes that had a high number of cases and deaths. “I saw 20 of my friends die last year and that’s why I am so wild,” he said. “There are places in the regions that hardly had any COVID and they are getting the vaccination before us.” In March it was revealed that thousands of parking fines issued by Hume council could potentially be refunded after the Victorian Ombudsman found the council may have acted

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2 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 January, 2022

YEAR IN REVIEW ... NEWS

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COVID quarantine centre anger JUNE 29 The Mickleham community is outraged by a decision to build a COVID-19 quarantine facility in the area. In a letter to Acting Premier James Merlino, seen by Star Weekly, Prime Minister Scott Morrison last week said the federal government had determined that commonwealth land on Donnybrook Road was the best site for the facility. But Hume council, traders and residents have slammed the decision, saying it puts the community ‘at risk’. “I moved to Mickleham to be away from the urban congestion to be safer from COVID-19, not to live in fear of going to my local Coles,”

one resident posted on Facebook following the announcement. “The news … poses many risks,” another resident posted. “[This] essentially [makes] all my hard work and everyone else’s to build and buy in a reputable area a waste of effort, resources and money.” Hume mayor Joseph Haweil said he was “disappointed” by the announcement. “Council again is finding out through the media about developments around the quarantine hub,” he said. “I’m pragmatic and I understand that a quarantine facility has to go somewhere, but why in one of the fastest growing municipalities in the state?

“An area that is buckling under the pressure of growth, over-crowded arterial roads with not a dollar committed to fix them. “I’d like the state government to answer whether they will properly duplicate Donnybrook Road and make those commitments if they are truly going to proceed with this project.” The site, which houses a federal government-run post entry quarantine facility for animals, is close to Merrifield shopping centre, which had several exposure sites in the latest COVID-19 outbreak. Ferguson Plarre franchise owner Todd Agius said he had “conflicting feelings” about the hub being built in Mickleham. “I’m trying to put a positive spin on it … on

one hand, it could generate business, but on the other, you do feel a bit uneasy,” Mr Agius said. “It’s not really something you want to be close to.” Health Minister Martin Foley said he embraced the federal government’s “late but welcomed” decision. Mr Foley said he understood there was a level of local concern in Mickleham. “I’m sure we’ll work through [the concerns],” he said. “This virus does not make distinctions between where you live.” Mr Morrison said that the quarantine hub will initially compromise 1000 beds but will open once the first 500 beds are available. He wants the first stages of the facility to be operational by the end of this year.

50-metre pool a reality DECEMBER 14

An aerial view of the New Epping site.

(Supplied)

New dawn for housing at Epping APRIL 6 One hundred and fifty social housing properties and a 126-bed private hospital will form the first stage of the $2 billion ‘New Epping’ development. The 51-hectare development on the site of the former Epping Quarry on Cooper Street will be transformed into a mixed-use precinct featuring health, residential and commercial properties over the next 10-15 years. Developer Riverlee broke ground on the project last week, with Housing Minister Richard Wynne turning the sod on the 150 social housing properties, which will be operated by Haven; Home, Safe. The properties are being built as part of the state government’s Big Housing Build. Riverlee development director David Lee said the start of works was a significant milestone. “Together with our project partners, local council and the state government, we are excited to be commencing stage one at New

Epping – a project that will play a huge role in meeting the healthcare and housing demands of this growing area. The diverse mix of housing, health and commercial uses will create a vibrant culture and community with a focus on wellness and sustainability,” he said. “Our vision for New Epping will take urban regeneration to a new level and bring an inner-city offering to the suburbs. The site no doubt has its challenges and we thank the state government for recognising the needs of this region by fast-tracking the work under the Building Victoria Recovery Taskforce.” Whittlesea council chair administrator said New Epping would provide significant economic and social benefits to the municipality. “Not only will it create 5000 jobs during construction and a further 3000 once developed in a whole range of sectors, it provides much needed housing diversity,” she said. “Council has long been advocating for much-needed social and affordable housing

in the City of Whittlesea and this project is a significant step in the right direction.” Haven; Home, Safe chair Damien Tangey said the stage one social housing properties would help increase the supply of social and affordable housing in the northern suburbs. The project will include 79 one-bedroom and 72 two-bedroom social housing homes, which are estimated to be built by May 2022. The $133 million Northern Private Hospital, which will be operated by Ramsay Health Care, will be built adjacent to Northern Hospital. It is estimated that the hospital will be built by December 2023. Ramsey Health Care Victorian manager Austin Wills said the hospital would cater for the diverse health needs of the growing community in Melbourne’s north. Stage one of New Epping will also include an 11-hectare “central green spine” that will connect all components of the development. Thomastown MP Bronwyn Halfpenny said New Epping would provide homes for families close to services, hospitals, shops and jobs.

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. 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. “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.”

Councillor responds: Scam demand letter ‘appalling’ OCTOBER 5 Hume councillor Naim Kurt says he is “beyond disgusted” after a scam letter – purporting to be from him – was sent out to ratepayers, directing them to pay money to the Hume Council or risk being jailed. The letter, seen by Star Weekly, was sent to “at least 100” Hume ratepayers around Gladstone Park, according to Cr Kurt. It directs people to pay $187.87 to a bank account, which the letter claims belongs to Hume council, and threatens jail time if the person does not pay within two days. “I have reviewed your rates and found that unfortunately you are currently in breach of

the council rates and invoices act,” the letter claims. “As your local councillor, I have managed to arrange a great discount for you. If you pay just $187.87 as a one-off payment, I can manage to wave (sic) your rates for the next 12 months. “This is a discount on account of COVID crisis. “If you do not pay your rates, then there is nothing I can do. You will be reported to the local law enforcement agency who will arrest you with severe jail time! “This could result in your being placed into the local prison system for up to 20 years without parole. I will not be able to protect

you at this point. “I can protect you but only if you make this payment.” Cr Kurt said his signature was forged on the letter, which also bears the Hume council and Victoria Police logos. The letter has been reported to police. Cr Kurt said he was “beyond disgusted that my name is being used to scam money from residents”. “This letter is aimed at vulnerable residents, who don’t speak English as a first language,” Cr Kurt said. “To think someone would misuse council and police logos and threaten people with jail time if they don’t make a special payment to

me, is appalling.” Hume chief executive Sheena Frost said council was “disappointed and frustrated” at the scam. “This is an appalling stunt against our community, and we are co-operating with police in their investigation,” she said. “We have placed an alert on council’s website and Facebook, and our customer service team has been notified of the letter to help residents confirm the authenticity of their rates notice.” Victoria Police was contacted for comment. If you receive the letter, report it via scamwatch.gov.au Tuesday, 11 January, 2022 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 3

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4 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 January, 2022

YEAR IN REVIEW ... HEALTH

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Doctor shares ordeal

Welcoming jab SEPTEMBER 7

JULY 27 A Northern Health doctor who recovered from COVID-19 last year, is encouraging his community to get vaccinated. Northern Health emergency department registrar Dr Yiannis Efstathiadis said he had the typical symptoms of the virus when he contracted it – fever, headache, muscle ache, and worsening lethargy. “By about two weeks in, I started to get the dry, annoying cough and by the third week, I couldn’t look after myself,” Dr Efstathiadis said. “[At that point] my wife had to call an ambulance for me.” The 35-year-old was admitted to the COVID-19 ward at Epping’s Northern Hospital. His oxygen levels were at 86 per cent, with no signs of improvement. “The intensive care team came and said I needed to be intubated,” he said. “Working in emergency, I had a pretty clear idea where everything was heading.” Dr Efstathiadis said he was breathing through a tube for three days, and was not able to have any visitors. He said the “difficult period” did not end once he was out of the ICU. “After waking up, I had to go to a ward for another couple of days,” he said. “Then the slow recovery started. “All my muscles felt so weak and I had no energy. “It was very hard to do anything. “With my wife’s help, and once I was allowed out of home, we started going out for short walks.” Dr Efstathiadis completed four months of physiotherapy to get back to his former strength, and said he feels lucky to have

Dr Yiannis Efstathiadis.

(Supplied)

recovered with no long-term consequences. He said he went on the first day of staff vaccinations in March this year. “It’s important to get vaccinated and keep our loved ones safe,” Dr Efstathiadis said. “Even if it wasn’t just for me, if I had given COVID-19 to anyone else last year, especially family, that would be devastating. “I have older grandparents, so many young cousins and people around me with underlying

conditions that I couldn’t even imagine what would happen if they caught the disease.” Dr Efstathiadis encouraged people to have a conversation with their doctor about receiving the vaccine. “If you are hesitant, talk to someone about it and make sure you get your advice from healthcare professionals,” he said. “Talk to people who know what they are talking about.”

Hume resident and GP Amrooha Hussain is encouraging the community to continue coming forward to get vaccinated against COVID-19 amid a “huge response” from the younger cohort. Recently released data from the federal health department revealed the Hume municipality had the lowest vaccination rate in the state for both first and second doses, at 40.8 per cent and 22.4 per cent respectively. According to the data, Queenscliffe had the highest vaccination rate in the state, with 86.9 per cent of eligible people having received their first dose, and 64 per cent their second. Despite Hume’s low rate, Dr Hussain – who works at Myhealth in Airport West – said she has seen the community being very keen to get vaccinated. “Certainly [since] the state government opened up the eligibility to 18 to 39 year olds, we’ve seen a huge response,” Dr Hussain said. “Our bookings are through the roof, it’s really hard to get a booking now because people have shown a lot of enthusiasm. “We’re seeing a lot of people come across the line to get vaccinated. “They were just waiting to be eligible, and there definitely seems to be a huge demand.” For anyone hesitant to get the jab, Dr Hussain said to be assured that both available vaccines in Victoria, AstraZeneca and Pfizer, are safe and effective.

What’s on

Come along for an evening of outdoor summer entertainment Bring a picnic or visit the food trucks and enjoy live music from the Bandwagon stage this summer.

School holiday fun Are you aged between 10-18 and looking for some fun local activities these holidays? Movie Day – Ghostbusters: Afterlife Tuesday 25 January, 1.30pm Cost: $7.50 per person Village Cinema, Plenty Valley

• Norris Bank Parklands, McLeans Road, Bundoora, Friday 14 January, 4pm–7pm

Art Classes – create your own masterpiece Tuesday 18 January, 10am, 12pm, 2pm Cost: $7.50 per person 44 Oleander Drive, Mill Park

• Gumnut Park, Olivine Boulevard, Donnybrook, Wednesday 19 January, 5pm–8pm

Bookings are required.

• Laurimar Town Centre, Hazel Glen Drive, Doreen, Friday 21 January, 5pm–8pm

Supervised by Council Youth Services staff.

For more information visit arts.whittlesea.vic.gov.au

For more information and to book visit www.facebook.com/baselineyouth

• Yarra Plenty Regional Library, Laurel St, Whittlesea, Wednesday 12 January, 5pm–8pm

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Northern Suburbs 14 DECEMBER, 2021

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Hopes for a pet ‘miracle’

(Damjan Janevski) 260172_02

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.

proudly serving the

MARISA DEBATT

ISTA WITH LEXINGT

Second Chance Animal is appealing for support Rescue (SCAR) House for Pets program to keep its Safe The program provides running. for the pets of owners temporary care as victims of domesti facing challenges c and family violence. SCAR chief executiv Debattista said the e Marisa program allowed owners to find safe, permanent housing without worrying about their animals. “We safely house the escaping violent situationpets of people s and look after these animals while their owners seek safe refuge,” she said. “Once they have secured permane nt safe housing we reunite “The tears and look them. owners’ faces when of pure joy on they are reunited with their pets again time is just incredib after a traumatic le.” Ms Debattista said SCAR received calls daily asking for struggling to make help, but that it was ends the program’s continua meet, putting She said SCAR was tion at risk. “looking for a miracle” to keep the refuge Details: secondchancean open. imarescue. com.au

50-metre pool a reality

Michaela Meade

By Michaela Meade

issue in the commun ity, with plans presente The Whittlesea to the former council community will Financial forecasti multiple times in 2019. d be able to dive into a ng at the time revealed Councillors initially 50-metr god-awful political opted to develop the centre would cost $80.3 million, with Whittlesea council e pool from 2025, business nonsense, it’s glorious including see our cases for a centre a $55.7 million 50-metr finally endorsing to with and without group of competition-leng th e pool, compared a 25-metre pool. a $75.6 million, pool to inside two years appointed administrators – including a $51 million for the Mernda Sports as its preferred option – do exactly what the The decision resulted 25-metre elected pool. Hub. previous council couldn’t in in community After numerous reports backlash, with residents 10 years.” A report tabled at council Mr Hogan said calling for a 50-metr last two years, Whittles to council over the pool to be last Tuesday stated e the overall leisure, included. ea’s administrators development” to have it was an “amazing voted last Tuesday aquatics and sports At the time, the the night to include a facility court would cost over $113 council said it couldn’t Chair administrator project promised. 50-metre afford pool in the new sports million. Lydia Wilson said a 50-metre pool. Extend the Pool in precinct. it was the “most Mernda The Mernda Sports significa campaig Then, in Decemb nt” infrastructure n leader project Ryan Hogan said Hub on Plenty Road the administrators he would “believe will house leisure, council’s administratorser, 2020, Whittlesea can swim it when I upon. would ever resolve aquatics and sports it”. resolved to investiga facilities. court two new te designs for “Build it and they “It is a legacy will swim,” he said. The aquatic centre 25-metre pool and the centre – one with a “After years upon has been a contenti the other with a 50-metr importance to the project of paramount ous pool. Whittlesea commun e Whittlesea demand years of the people of Ms ity,” Wilson said. “This proposal … will be and being told ‘we’ll ing this development benefit a to children, families look into it’ and and older people some of all backgro unds.”

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ZIEBELL’S FARM HOUSE MUSEUM & HERIT AGE GARDENS

This local gem tells the story of the establish 1850s, now Thomast ment of Westgar own and Lalor. See thtown in the along with 70 more, our ﬁrst rose planted many other plants, in the 1860s heritage buildings and exhibitions. Cnr Gardenia Drive & Ainwick Cres, Thomastown Sunday 11.30 am–3 pm Tuesday 11:30 am–2 pm Adults $3 Children 50 cents

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

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

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

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

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YEAR IN REVIEW ... IN PICTURES

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2021 Through the lens Star Weekly photographers Damjan Janevski and Joe Mastroianni were out and about in Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs throughout the year. Here are a selection of their favourite photos from 2021.

Desiree caught the eye of Janevski during the Be Bold Festival in St Albans in April.

The sun boxes at Altona beach take on a different look when not in use. When viewed side-on, they look a little like a doggie training course. Rachel and her dashhound Ernie, were kind enough to oblige when Mastroianni asked them to walk through the boxes, resulting in this slightly quirky image.

In January, Janevski snapped this pic of summer holiday Wheel Intensive program coach Ludwig Schukin (front centre) and his students Kate Gilworth, Daniel, 14, Anna,10, and Edha, 14, during a class in Werribee.

Darley artist Anuradha Patel with some of her artwork.

(Damjan Janevski) 249677_01

Janevski captured this quirky image of performer Sermsah Bin Saad.

Mill Park comedian James Liotta secured the role of a lifetime in August, appearing on ‘Fat Pizza’ on 7Mate. (Damjan Janevski)

Stephanie Mfongwot – a Williamstown woman who escaped violence in Cameroon prior to making her professional boxing debut in July. (Damjan Janevski)

Mastroianni took this photo of Steve Weston with a mural at Werribee Bowls Club in November.

Flynn, 9, and Amelia, 6, at the Melbourne Airport viewing area as interstate flights resumed in December. (Damjan Janevski) 260894_01

Janevski captured this photo of Edgar’s Mission Farm Sanctuary community engagement manager Sophia Grewal with a piglet ahead of Be Kind to Animals Week in October.

Graeme Precious, Kris Siderov, Brian Parkinson, and Allen Williams took a ride on the Bulla Hill Railway in February as it returned to the tracks for 2021. (Damjan Janevski)

Manfred Zabinskas, who runs an animal rescue centre, with a kangaroo. (Damjan Janevski)

Tuesday, 11 January, 2022 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 7

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Published by MMP Star Pty Ltd ACN 168 220 399 Head Office Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas All material is copyright to MMP Star Pty Ltd. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Paul Thomas. All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit starweekly.com.au

Craigieburn Cricket Club president Gerard Laffan, and curator Brad Penaluna on their turf wicket covers. (Supplied)

Grant boost for groups The inaugural Donnybrae Community Fund has granted $21,000 to 14 not-for-profit groups operating in the Donnybrook and Craigieburn areas. The successful recipients were announced at a presentation evening last month, with each group awarded a grant of $1500 to support their local community project. One of the 14 recipients was Craigieburn Cricket Club, who’s president Gerard Laffan said will use the grant to purchase turf wicket covers after two years struggling to generate funds. The turf wickets will “assist the players and members to ensure we have a game every week even when the weather is against us”, he said. Maureen Reardon from the Craigieburn Salvation Army said the Salvos will use the

Live Well at Sherwin Rise

grant to operate their Connect Food Van in the local area. “We plan to connect with families in the area and provide a free meal from the van six times over the new year,” she said. Dennis Family Corporation, the developer of Donnybrae estate, has operated community funds across its residential developments, both in Victoria and Queensland, since 2002 and distributed more than $850,000 in grants over that time. Dennis Family Corporation marketing executive Nidhi Joshi, who hosted the presentation event said: “We are proud to support the local communities in areas where we operate our business. We believe their efforts greatly contribute towards the liveability of our estates”.

Gang Crime Squad detectives have charged a man and a woman following an alleged aggravated home invasion in Thomastown last Wednesday. Investigators have been told three people, armed with a knife, forced entry to a home on The Boulevard in Thomastown shortly before 4am. They fled the scene prior to police attending and two residents home at the time were uninjured. Both were charged with a number of offences and remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court on January 25. Police are still searching for the third person.

Vaccinations return to PRACC A mass vaccination hub has been re-established at the Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC) in South Morang to support the effort to deliver thousands of third doses in coming weeks. A specilised children’s vaccination clinic has also been set up at the Whittlesea council civic centre.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Join an active over 55’s community in Wollert Enjoy retiring to a brand new modern home in a thriving over 55s community. With a social Clubhouse, cinema, pool, gym, shopping, medical providers and parklands all on your doorstep, enjoy a lifestyle unlike any other. New contemporary and spacious, single level 2 and 3 bedroom open plan homes now selling from just $555,000. Discover your next chapter at Sherwin Rise. Live where it’s happening, and let the adventures begin.

Visit Sales Office and Display today at 40 Chetwynd Grove, Wollert or call 1800 550 550

Your place to live well. Artist’s impression of a two bedroom home, study and double garage. Whilst Lendlease endeavours to ensure that the information in this advertisement is correct, no warranty, express, implied is given to its accuracy. December 2021. Published by Lendlease RL Realty (VIC) Pty Ltd ABN 55 124 646 484.

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YEAR IN REVIEW ... PEOPLE

Seniors’ service cuts out in style

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Making lockdown a little sweeter tasting JUNE 15

JUNE 1 The Lynda Blundell Seniors Centre hairdressing service closed last week after 30 years of operation. The service had been running since shortly after the centre in Dallas was opened in July, 1991. At the time, Karen Lever was employed to open the salon and provided an accessible, affordable service for seniors. In 2003, Rosemary Moon joined Karen. Both women developed an ongoing friendship with the seniors who came to them for a “chin wag and cut”. The club was saddened in 2008 when Karen unexpectedly died, however Rosemary continued the service, displaying a small shrine in Karen’s honour in the salon. Reduced demand for the service and changes to the community use of the centre has meant the salon needed to close, with the space to be used for alternate activities. Rosemary told Star Weekly she was sad to be leaving, as she gave her final haircut at the site last week. “I make people happy here,” she said. “They come for a haircut and gossip, and that’s their activity for the day, which has been lovely.” Club member Sonja Rutherford said Rosemary had made a “second family” at the salon. Rosemary will continue to provide home hairdressing services for those who would like them.

Rosemary gives her final haircut at the centre to John. (Michaela Meade)

Donnybrook resident Hiba Zain found the sweet side of Melbourne’s most recent COVID-19 lockdown. For about two years, Hiba has been running her business Sweetique from her home, baking sweet treats for special occasions, including baby gender reveals. Hiba said she started the business after a push from those closest to her. “I used to make cupcakes and cakes for my family and friends,” she said. “They really loved them, and told me to start a business.” Unfortunately, Melbourne’s COVID-19 lockdowns have hindered her business. “It was going really well before lockdown,” Hiba said. “After lockdown hit, it made it really hard. “I was getting five to six orders per week, now it’s just one or two. “I used to deliver my stuff to people … from all northern suburbs. “Now, people are reluctant to leave home.” Despite the hardship she has been facing, Hiba is determined to bring positivity into people’s lives by making her signature cupcakes for a lockdown giveaway. “I was feeling that everybody’s quite low these days, so I made two batches for a giveaway so that I could make people happy,” she said.

Hiba Zain puts the finishing touches on some cupcakes. (Damjan Janevski)

“It’s just like a small activity for me, and [will hopefully] make someone smile.” Details: www.facebook.com/ sweetiquebyhiba

A single ember can spread bushfires as far as 30km. Burning embers from bushﬁres can travel up to 30km, starting new fires in seconds, destroying homes and making escape impossible. If the Fire Danger Rating is ever extreme or above, don’t hesitate. Leave early.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to emergency.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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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

Keilor 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.

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. ■ 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

Softball 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

This week’s Through the Lens photo is stained glass artist Daniella Acciarito. (Damjan Janevski) 261724_04

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

guest speaker at each meeting, which starts at 7.30pm at the Sunbury Football Club. ■ Cheryl, 9744 1663

Senior citizens club Rotary club The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 7pm. ■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

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

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

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

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

■

9746 0271

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

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

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

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

Mouth organ band The Yarraville Mouth Organ Band meets Friday evenings at 203 Williamstown Road, Yarraville. Great music, friendly atmosphere. New members, players or beginners welcome. ■ Heather, 9399 2190

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

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

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

Garden club

Musicians welcome

The Sunbury Garden Club meets on the first Tuesday of every month. There is a

Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band

10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 January, 2022

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

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

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park Meets Wednesdays from 10am-noon at Maddingley Park, corner of Grant and Taverner streets, Bacchus Marsh, to maintain two beautiful rose gardens. New volunteers are always welcome – with or without experience. ■ Elaine Greenhall, 0418 171 119 or 0400 052 857

Family fun day Melton Men’s Probus Club The Melton Men’s Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am. New members and visitors are most welcome.

The Altona North Bowls Club will be holding a family fun day on January 26. From noon, there will be live music, activities for children, sausage sizzle, refreshments and barefoot bowls. Gold coin donation for entry.

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The Arthurs Seat Eagle is a one of a kind experience right on Melbourne’s doorstep.

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Picture: SUPPLIED

Reaching for the skies Catching a gondola in the middle of the Mornington Peninsula may seem like a difficult task but Arthurs Seat Eagle gives the experience a whole new meaning. Rather than being on the water, the gondola chair lift is suspended high above the ocean, giving spectacular views out across the bay. “The Arthurs Seat Eagle offers a one of a kind experience - soaring high above Arthurs Seat State Park in our state-of-the-art gondolas, 314 metres above sea level. The stunning views from the gondolas extend across Port Phillip Bay to Melbourne CBD and beyond,” Arthurs Seat Eagle CEO, Matt Mulkearns said. Since 2016 the Eagle has been operating,

constantly changing things up to give customers a new experience each time they visit. The team have introduced in-gondola dining and the cafe menu is seasonally updated but it is the newly renovated retail store that has been an integral part of The Base, to help display the wonderful local produce the peninsula has to offer. “Our newly revamped retail store stocks products from the Mornington Peninsula - our emphasis has been on showcasing and supporting local producers, artisans, and businesses that give back to the community,” Mr Mulkearns said. But it’s not just the things the eye can

see that makes this the one of a kind tourist destination that it is. “We have a relentless drive to deliver safety excellence and use only state-of-the-art equipment and products - this has translated well in the era of Covid, as the implementation of an advanced TGA certified, instant contact surface disinfectant has given us a superior level of Covid protection and a leading technological edge in our industry.” The fully inclusive and accessible gondolas, designed in Switzerland, cater for all ages and abilities, allowing everyone to witness the bluest of blue waters in Melbourne’s beach side suburbs.

With discounts now on offer, there’s no better time to book this premium Victorian tourism attraction, the only one like it in the state. “We have just introduced a new Eagle Family Ticket to make the Eagle more affordable and cost efficient for families. An online ticket discount has also been introduced to provide better value and an incentive to those who book online.” Open every day except Christmas Day from 10am to 5pm at 795 Arthurs Seat Road, Arthurs Seat. Visit www.aseagle.com.au to book tickets or contact the Arthurs Seat Eagle team at info@aseagle.com.au or on (03) 5987 0600.

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YEAR IN REVIEW ... COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Print and Online Sales Executive Star Weekly

Kids fight MND

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms. Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

JUNE 1 A simple question from a child has sparked a fundraising campaign at a Mernda child care centre. Maples Early Learning Centre is raising money for charity FightMND after the grandmother of one of the centre’s children died as a result of motor neurone disease (MND) last year. Maples assistant director Hayley George said the centre decided to host a fundraiser in honour of grandmother Wendy following a chat with the children. “After discussions with the children, one

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. Sales skills/experience: • Ability to maintain existing professional relationships and to create new ones • Ability to meet defined sales and activity targets • Excellent listening skills • Accuracy and attention to detail • Effective time management to meet deadlines • Ability to operate in a team • Demonstrates initiative and flexibility • Effective oral and written communication

child asked why can’t we just give them money to make a medicine,” Ms George said. “As a group we decided to try and raise $10,000 for the FightMND campaign.” FightMND is a charity founded in 2014 aiming to find effective treatments and a cure for MND. Ms George said the community is invited to attend their official fundraising event on Thursday, July 17. Educators will be dunked in the ice tank, [and there will be] a sausage sizzle, CFA fire truck visit and market stalls. Details: https://hub.fightmnd.org.au/ diy-big-freeze/maples-early-learning

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Mandy Clark Group Advertising Sales Manager mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

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Willow, 4, with parents Jarrod and Samantha Macdonald and a photo of her grandma who passed away from MND. (Damjan Janevski) 238584_02

TRAVEL TO AN

ASI N RAINFOREST ST AR UND THE CORNER

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. 12 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 January, 2022

YEAR IN REVIEW ... COMMUNITY

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Helping hand for India JUNE 1 Melbourne’s Sikh community has rallied to raise more than $15,000 for oxygen-making equipment and food for communities in India. The Craigieburn-based Australian Sikh Support began raising money for India last month, beginning with a fundraising stall at the Gurudwara (temple) in Craigieburn on May 15, where they raised $10,000. Australian Sikh Support secretary Gurjit Singh said the group also planned to hold fundraisers in other parts of Melbourne, including Tarneit, in a bid to raise as much money as possible for India. Mr Singh said the money raised went towards

oxygen cylinders, oxygen concentrators and food. The organisation has teamed up with Australian groups in Delhi, which has recorded about 1.39 million COVID-19 cases, and Maharashtra, which has recorded more than 5.38 million cases, to prepare meals for families in lockdown and ensure COVID-affected people have access to oxygen. “Maharashtra is in hard lockdown. No one can go anywhere,” Mr Singh said. “In the villages, right now they are safe from COVID-19 but they don’t have food because they can’t go to the city for work. “We are providing one-month grocery packages to three villages.” In Delhi, Australian Sikh Support is

providing oxygen concentrators and home-delivered meals. The group is also aiming to open a 30-bed site in Punjab in the country’s north, which will be stocked with oxygen concentrators. Punjab has recorded close to 500,000 COVID cases. Mr Singh said the Melbourne Sikh community had been generous with its time and money. “Our community helps out a lot,” he said. “We are all volunteers doing whatever we can to help.” Mr Singh said the Melbourne Sikh community was hopeful that the COVID-19 situation was starting to improve in India, with the number of cases slowly falling over the past

Australian Sikh Support has partnered with Australian teams in India to provide food and oxygen to locals. (Supplied)

week. To date, the country has recorded more than 25 million cases. To donate, visit: australiansikhsupport.org

Giving with love MAY 4 Al Siraat College in Epping is running a gift drive in celebration of Eid Ul Fitr. Eid Ul Fitr is a celebration that takes place after the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. This year, the Eid celebration is from the evening of Wednesday, May 12 until the evening of Thursday, May 13. The school is thrilled to be running the event once again, after the drive was put on hold last year as a result of the pandemic, Teacher Noori Ahmad said the drive was important for the college to give back to the community. “We are running this gift drive to help bring smiles to children who are facing hardships at

Craigieburn Rd

this current time of living in Melbourne,” Ms Ahmad said. “One of the college values we promote in school culture is benefiting others, and it teaches [pupils] the meaning of giving. “[We want] to teach our [pupils] to appreciate the blessings of gifts they have in their lives, and how to share and care for other children who are less fortunate.” The school has partnered with non-profit organisations the Zakat Foundation and Mercy Wings for the drive. Teachers are encouraging participants to “give generously” in the drive, which involves picking a gift box of any size and “filling it with love”. The drive ends Monday, May 10.

Students Madina, Zainab and Ruqaiya wrapping gifts for the drive.

(Damjan Janevski) 235600_02

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Tuesday, 11 January, 2022 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 13

2022 THE ASTROLOGICAL YEAR AHEAD with Sudhir

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20) The Ram: Fire – Spirit – Outgoing

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20) The Bull: Earth – Matter – Fixed

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21) The Twins: Air – Ideas – Changeable

Love

With the asteroid Chiron slowly making it’s way through Aries over the course of the year, there’s a strong focus on healing. In matters of the heart, this has to do with slowing down and honouring the deep sensitivity required to do no harm in love. Opportunity in matters of the heart will certainly come your way, as Jupiter spends time with you from May through to October, but you will have to open up to the tenderness required for the flame to fully ignite.

You have a very large unruly guest in your midst by the name of Uranus. The function of Uranus is to liberate us. The question is whether we want to be liberated. In the realm of love, Uranus is going to shake things up, like a farmer shakes up the soil to make it more alive. Truth liberates. In matters of love, the presence of fearless truth will deepen your connections. If love can’t bear the presence of truth then it needs to be reviewed and renewed.

In matters of the heart, the strongest influence will be coming your way from Neptune, who is in Pisces. You love dancing around in the world of ideas. Anyone who comes close to you, will have to fall in love with your busy-ness, your curiosity, and your sense of play. Neptune in Pisces will lean on you to open up to a depth of feeling, and a depth of longing, that is presently out of your range. See this as an opportunity to explore parts of yourself that are unknown.

Money

Jupiter will be in Aries from May through to October. Jupiter is the planet of expansion, luck, good fortune, and opportunity. The omens are clear. This is the time of the year when you can expect the greatest support from the cosmos, to get that project that you have been treasuring in your imagination, over the line. The key will be to align your sensitivity and intuition with your enthusiasm and bravado. By engaging both you will be unstoppable.

The presence of disruptive Uranus in Taurus, means that those who are able to adjust quickly to a constantly-changing environment, will prosper. If you try to dig your roots in when the sands are shifting, you will suffer all the indignities that come from being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Remember, Uranus is here to set us free. Any disruption that he brings is with that in mind. Bulls aren’t always the most manoeuvrable of animals. Work on your flexibility.

By upping your skill levels, money will eventually come and find you. Focus on finding excellence in whatever it is that you do. You will know you have it when your work, craft, art, or trade begins to bring you waves of joy. There are a lot of disruptive forces at play in the world at large as we speak. As flexibility is built into your hard-drive, you are well positioned to thrive. Change is a food that nourishes you, whereas for others it just breeds anxiety.

Direction

We are living in interesting times. All of our institutions are in a process of regeneration and renewal. It would be all too easy to focus on what’s falling apart, but the reality is that this moment in history contains the seeds of great possibility, providing we can have our wits about us. Even as Pluto sets this up, and Uranus continues to provide us with unexpected shocks, your job is to keep dusting yourself off and staying true to your naturally-optimistic spirit.

The North Node of the Moon, or the Head of the Dragon, is moving through Taurus for the whole of next year. The North Node is like a big magnet, pulling us forward into fresh adventures and unknown pastures. This, along with Uranus, is setting you up for journeys into unknown places, both in your external world and in your being. The moment you get comfortable with change, you will find a different kind of security and safety that is wild and free.us with unexpected shocks, your job is to keep dusting yourself off and staying true to your naturally-optimistic spirit.

Pluto is breaking down societal structures, in order to renew them. As long as we remember the renewal part, then these crazy days will prove to be potent and creative. Uranus in Taurus keeps sending all sorts of shocks through our culture, mostly via the media. The true nature of the various traditions we live in is being revealed for what it is. You have a natural affinity for media, messages, and communication. This coming year you will have an effect by speaking clearly.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22) The Crab: Water – Feeling – Outgoing

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22) The Lion: Fire – Spirit – Fixed

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22) The Virgin: Earth – Matter – Changeable

Love

Over the coming year, and in spite of all the shifts and changes going on around you, you will find yourself feeling more and more steady in your heart and soul. This very much goes for your world of affection. As a child of the Moon, your moods and emotions will always be in flux. That’s the nature of water signs such as Cancer. Disruptions should take love deeper. If they don’t, then now is the time to learn how to turn ruptures into fields of opportunity.

You are a creature of the Sun. Whatever goes down, you are always going to be looking at ways to shine your light. Interestingly, when it comes to looking into the year ahead, there is always a parallel theme of regeneration and renewal at play. Love will invite you to put your ego aside, and yet shine. In attempting to do both, you will find a deeper love and a deeper light; one that isn’t dependant on other people’s approval in order for you to shine.

Neptune is in Pisces, directly opposite Virgo. Neptune and Pisces are everything that Virgo isn’t. Where you love groundedness, rhythm and plans, both Neptune and Pisces choose intuition. Where you are pragmatic, Neptune and Pisces are imaginative. In love, this means that you are likely to be flooded by waves of feeling that hold great possibility but make no sense to your logical mind. Your soul is calling for experiences that are overwhelming in their beauty.

Money

Around money and finances, you are always going to be driven by a pull to comfort, safety and nourishment. That’s your nature. Within a context of deep societal change, as we are experiencing now, this becomes a powerful challenge. Jupiter will be in Aries from May until October. During this time fortune will shine on those who are willing to turn their ideas into action. He will spend the rest of the year in Pisces. Use your intuition as well as your energy.

In matters of money, it is worth noting that you are presently being challenged by the presence of Saturn in your opposite sign, Aquarius. This means that life will lean on you to balance your needs with the needs of the community around you. A community that allows no individuality would be robotic and cold. To go with individuality alone, and ignore community, would inevitably end up being harsh and unkind. Factor this into your financial decisions. You are not alone.

As you sift, sort, research, and analyse, so life defies you. We are in a period of extraordinary change. Uranus is shaking up the market’s tectonic plates. Pluto is regenerating and renewing cultural and economic norms. These are reflected in the presence of climate change, a pandemic, and loud voices from the right and left that want everybody’s attention, no matter what. Neptune in Pisces is challenging you to dare to dream. Imagine, and enact a positive vision.

Direction

With Pluto travelling ever so slowly through your opposite sign, Capricorn, you are being faced with a constant challenge. Pluto is dismantling various rigidities that have crept into our culture, opening up the possibility of regeneration and renewal. The temptation is to give into fear. The better option is to trust your feelings and work at finding the opportunities and possibilities that are present, should one wish to find them. Bring your love to bear in matters that matter.

There are a few very influential planets working to bring your passions to ground. To burn passionately without having one’s feet on solid ground, is to self-immolate. Nobody wants that. Fire needs a hearth to contain it, otherwise it becomes a wildfire, invoking danger and damage. Saturn in Aquarius is a part of this equation. Saturn is the cosmic handbrake. To slow down and be ever more aware of the implications of our actions is a good thing. Go with it.

As an earth sign, you love it best when there is solid ground beneath your feet. Uranus is shaking your foundations. Pluto in Capricorn is also on a cosmic mission to regenerate structures that are becoming damaging or irrelevant. Of all the earth signs, you are the one most likely to be able to adapt to change. This will only happen if you take time out from trying to figure out all the details and, instead, step back and look at the big picture. Be ahead of the game.

The outer planets provide the deep underlying pulse of the year ahead. Let’s begin with Pluto, the most distant. Pluto brings regeneration and renewal. He is in Capricorn. He is breaking down old structures so they can be rebuilt in more life-affirming ways. Neptune is next. He symbolises our longing to melt into life’s flow, in love or meditation. He is in Pisces, the sign of bliss, inviting us to honour our need for soulful or spiritual experience. Uranus follows. Uranus’ function is to liberate us. He is in Taurus, the sign of money, resources and pleasure. Uranus is rattling our addiction to unsustainable comforts. He is waking us up to that feeling of aliveness that comes when our lives are in flux. Saturn follows. His job is to keep us real. He is in Aquarius. He will make us consider our various ideas of freedom, some of which are narcissistic, and some of which honour the fact that we are connected to a web of community that demands care. Jupiter, the last piece in the puzzle, will shift between Pisces and Aries. Jupiter provides a sense of possibility and optimism. In Pisces, he will encourage us to be more soulful. In Aries he will nudge us to get out there and have a go at making our most heartfelt dreams real.

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23) The Scales: Air – Ideas – Outgoing

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21) The Scorpion: Water – Feeling – Fixed

Love

Venus is your guiding planet; and love is your driving force. You hold a lot more sway than others might imagine. It is time to bring your love out into the world at large, and let it impact on the work you do, and the people you have around you. Romance is important but it’s not enough to silo it into one small part of your life. Shine your love wherever you go and who ever you cross paths with. The more you share it, the more love will come back to you.

Ruled as you are by the planet Pluto, who is presently in Capricorn, your love-life is always going to be an on-going journey of re-invention and renewal.Your propensity for secrets is equal to your love of bringing that which is hidden out into the light. The South Node of the Moon is moving through Scorpio offering you a golden opportunity to shed the skin of old habits and patterns that keep you in less than nourishing loops. Relax your hold and let love do its thing.

You are ruled by two passions. One is to figure out how to make sense and meaning out of all the crazy things that life throws at us. The second is to get out and see the world. The South Node of the Moon has now left you alone. In love, you no longer have the feeling that some sort of an old snag is holding you back. Jupiter is in Pisces for some of the year, deepening your need for immersive emotional experience. Love will alternate between intimacy and adventure.

Money

Your ruling planet Pluto, is interestingly named after the Greek God of precious gems and minerals, hidden deep beneath the earth. You are less likely to be distracted by all the ructions going on in the economy, and the surrounding culture, than most. Your instinct for transformation and change, and the wealth that can arise from riding such waves, is well-honed. Watch for old habits that can keep you locked in repetitive cycles. Reinvent yourself as often as required.

Jupiter, your guiding planetary light, dips in and out of Pisces and Aries. It is in Aries between May and October. While it is there, you will be prone to stepping into action, even if you don’t know what the effects will be. There is no harm in allowing your adventurous self open slather. Your adventurousness and optimism will bring you good fortune in the long run. It always does. Outside of this time, lay low and do all the contemplating that you need to do.

Direction

There are powerful shifts, changes and challenges afoot in the world we live in. Tempted as you are to glide over the top of such things, this is not going to be possible this time around. In fact, your capacity for connection, and your passion for the just and the beautiful, is sorely needed in the world at large. Honour your voice. Know your worth. As you do so, your authority will start to shine. A powerful positive vision is needed to balance out the negativity that is around.

You are the Master, or Mistress, of Transformation. Whenever things go awry, you are hard-wired to create gold from seemingly insoluble mayhem. With Uranus shaking our collective foundations, it is your job to find alternate openings. If you aren’t engaged in the work of renewal, you aren’t following your implicit destiny. Old solutions won’t work. Ingenuity and courage are vital now. Under pressure, you have the capacity to tap into both in bucket loads. Use your courage to regenerate, creatively, emotionally, and practically this year.

With Jupiter jumping between sensitive, contemplative Pisces and gung-ho Aries, you are invited to bring both your sensitivity and your rambunctiousness to the table. If you get stuck in one or the other, you will only be half the person you are meant to be. Endless, oceanic contemplation, with no fire or passion, leads to brackish lethargy. Pure passion, with no sensitivity or awareness, would only singe your senses. Be wild and intuitive both, as you gallop forth into life.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19) The Goat with the Fishes Tail: Earth – Matter – Outgoing

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) The Water-bearer: Air – Ideas – Fixed

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) The Fishes: Water – Feeling – Changeable

Money is very rarely the driving force for Librans, unless it can lead to a deepening of beauty or justice in the world. Still, we all have to deal with it’s presence in our lives. With Jupiter in Aries from May to October, the cosmos is challenging you to get off the fence and make one of those decisions you have been avoiding in secret for way too long. As you step into action, so your strength comes to the fore and your gifts are shared. Moving your energy will enrich you.

Direction

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21) The Centaur: Fire – Spirit – Changeable

Love

The year begins and ends with Venus in your midst, which bodes well for love, as long as you don’t get too distracted for the rest of the year. Pluto is near the end of his sixteen-year transit of Capricorn. He has well and truly done the work of breaking things down. Now his focus is on planting new seeds and encouraging renewal. Let this be the journey of your love-life, too. This year and the next are for rejuvenating those parts of you that have done it tough.

Saturn is the key driver in your love-life. He is in Aquarius and, ironically, is associated more with the brakes than the accelerator. Saturn’s message is always to slow down, stop, and get real. This means getting out of the torturous trap of idealising love to such a degree that nothing and no-one satisfies. Drop the ideal and be with what’s real. Once you start to enjoy this and stop fighting with it, you will discover a flowering field of affection right before your eyes.

With Neptune travelling through Pisces, the flavour of love that suits you best, is one that is immersive, overwhelming and spiritually blissful. Pleasure is not enough for a Pisces; you want ecstasy and nothing less. This is a powerful current to be swimming in, but that’s how you like it. The danger is that you sacrifice your ego on the wrong altar. When you get it right, you get access to the kinds of feelings poets sing about. Offer yourself fully to love, with awareness.

Money

It’s a volatile and changing marketplace. To put down solid roots, one needs to have a real sense of the positive potentials of a changing future. To be stuck in rigid orthodox patterns won’t give you the flexibility to change course when you need to. There’s a wildness to goats that is present in goat-people. Know where vitality and vibrancy is. That’s where you will find the most interesting possibilities. You are pragmatic enough not to be led up any dubious trails.

Your focus is very much on gathering your resources and getting your foundations down. These are tricky times for doing this. Your great skill, of course, is to think outside the box, and go about things in unorthodox ways. As Uranus in Taurus continues to unsettle all those institutional systems that we once thought were sacrosanct, so your ability to function from left-field is a godsend. Saturn will ensure that you slow decisions down and don’t be reactive.

The world needs visionaries. The most successful entrepreneurs are usually those who have dared to have a vision and who have dared to trust their intuition. It takes courage to go down this path. With Neptune travelling through Pisces, and joined by Jupiter till May and then again after October, all the omens are in place for you to ride a great breaking wave. Waves can be fickle things. Be sure to have your wits about you, and a good accountant close by, for reality checks.

Direction

There are a lot of things happening in the world that could easily lead to one descending into a dystopian mindset. Pluto, in Capricorn, has been breaking things down on all levels. Pluto does this in order to create anew. Those with even one optimistic bone in their body, should be looking at the creative possibilities of this time, rather than fighting tooth and nail for what is now long gone. Pluto has pretty much done his work. Invest in a regenerative future.

You are beholden astrologically to both Saturn and Uranus. Saturn’s job is to slow things down and keep them steady. Uranus’ role is to shake things up and set us free. Your task is always to figure out how to fly high with your feet planted on solid ground. As the ground shakes beneath your feet this year, so the whole idea of what liberation really is, comes to the fore. You love community and you are an advocate for individuality. Get creative. Put the two together.

The presence of Neptune in Pisces is a profoundly powerful placement. Take all the qualities of Pisces and dial them up to ten. Neptune and Pisces are symbols of humanity’s spiritual thirst. Everybody feels the feeling of separation in one way or another; and everybody craves the feeling of integration, in whatsoever form it may take. It’s a valid thirst. Let yourself feel it and it will guide you where you need to go. Never be ashamed of the deep currents flowing through your heart.

PUZZLES No. 063

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

4 6 2

9 8 6 4 4 5 9 3 8 1 5 9

1 8 3

7 7 9 6 3 9 2 5

QUICK CROSSWORD Police officer (3) Responsiveness (11) Erected once more (7) Word formed by letters of another (7) Armed forces (8) Dove-like bird (6) Televisions (abbrev) (3) Of, or relating to, Palestine (11) Differing strikingly (11) Hearing organ (3) Its capital is Moscow (6) Force (8) Decorate food with other food (7) Sickening (7) Reminding one of something (11) Used a seat (3)

11 12 14 15 17 19 20 21 24 25 26

2 8 9 5

Rapid (5) Ecologist (10) Modern Persia (4) Forming a mental image of (9) Of, or relating to, Israel (7) Arab state (5) Aid (10) Divide into parts (9) Compass direction (9) Quack medicine (7) Absorb, immerse (7) Tennis player Federer (5) Kick out (tenants) (5) Therefore (4)

3 4 5 6

ACROSS 1 3 9 10

No. 063

7 8 13 15 16 18 19 20 22 23

DOWN Pertaining to colour (9) Small smooth stones (7)

1 2

medium

8 7 1 2 6 4 2 5 3 7

DECODER

No. 063

3 3 8 5 4

1 9 8 4 7

4 2 8 6 1 8 3 2 3

hard

6 5

3 4 3

10 11 12 13

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

AGENT AGILE AGLOW ASHEN ASIDE ASSET AVAIL BELIE BLISS CAPES CHIDE CHIRP COBRA DOGMA EASEL EAVES EDITS FABLE FICHE FRONT GLINT

9 7 1 4 8 3 5 6 2

6 5 4 7 1 8 3 9 2

3 7 2 5 9 4 1 6 8

9 1 8 6 2 3 7 4 5

7 4 5 2 8 6 9 1 3

Today’s Aim: 16 words: Good 24 words: Very good

N H

4 LETTERS APES BEST CARD CLOT CYST FEET GEAR HACK MASK MEAT PATE RIDE TENS TEST

O A S T C U T E E D U X

C A R

5 3 1 8 4 2 6 7 9

4 5 8 9 2 6 7 3 1

6 2 3 1 7 5 8 9 4

3 1 6 5 4 7 9 2 8

7 9 4 2 1 8 6 5 3

2 8 5 3 6 9 4 1 7

1 6 2 7 5 4 3 8 9

8 4 9 6 3 2 1 7 5

5 3 7 8 9 1 2 4 6

8 5 2 1 4 3 9 6 7

5 6 8 7 1 2 4 3 9

4 1 7 9 3 8 6 5 2

9 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 8

6 8 1 3 9 7 2 4 5

3 4 9 5 2 1 8 7 6

2 7 5 8 6 4 1 9 3

16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 January, 2022

N T

4 9 6 3 5 7 8 2 1

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

7 3 4 6 8 9 5 2 1

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

N O T

No. 063

2 8 7 1 6 9 5 3 4

GOOFY GRABS HARMS ISLAM LEARN LOSES MARES MERES MIRED MUFFS OBESE RABBI READY ROOTS SENSE SHARE SKIMS SLATE SLEET SLEPT SOLAR

SPORT STACK STYLE SUITE SWEAR TENSE TERMS

7 LETTERS BESEECH BETTORS FLASHER LESSENS PEASANT PENSIVE

6 LETTERS CHEATS EMERGE ENSIGN WHILST

8 LETTERS DOMINOES ENDORSED FORTIETH HABITUAL

14-01-22

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

5 LETTERS AGAIN

No. 063

ante, anted, anti, band, bandit, bane, bean, behind, bend, bent, bind, dean, dent, detain, dine, dint, entia, hand, hind, hint, hinted, indite, inhabit, INHABITED, neat, tend, than, thane, then, thin, thine, tine

1 2 3 9 7 5 4 8 6

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”.

9-LETTER WORD

32 words: Excellent

hard

medium

easy

9 3

3 LETTERS AGE AGO ASH AVO BEE BET CHI CPA DIP EKE EWE FEE GEE HER HES ILK INS LAD LEE MEN RAG RID TEE UGH

F P BMT D A K R OU J Z

S C X E H V QWN L Y G I

5x5

2 3 2 4

1 9

WORDFIT

QUICK QUIZ

Which band performed the 1990s hit I’m Too Sexy?

What inspired the colour reference in the codename for the powerful herbicide and defoliant Agent Orange?

Does Kakadu National Park include about one quarter, one third or one 10th of Australia’s bird species?

Which TV personality fought his local council for the right to have a large glass mural of Pamela Anderson (pictured) on the front of his house?

Does the Murray-Darling Basin cover approximately 7 per cent, 14 per cent or 21 per cent of the total area of Australia?

What is unique about the group of mammals known as monotremes?

In which country did golf originate?

Beginning with ‘s’, what word means “the act of talking to oneself”?

In what year was the video game Pac-man released in Japan?

10 Is the book Memoirs of a Geisha fiction or non-fiction?

ANSWERS: 1. Right Said Fred 2. The barrels it was shipped in had orange stripes 3. One third 4. Sam Newman 5. 14 per cent 6. They lay eggs 7. Scotland 8. Soliloquy 9. 1980 10. Fiction

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Young star takes out state title July 27 Craigieburn youngster Lucas Mamonitis has become a state champion for the fourth time. The 10-year-old competed in the Victorian State Taekwondo Championships earlier this month, taking part in the black belt division. The young athlete won all three fights he contested, taking out the state title. Lucas said winning all of his fights in the knockout competition was a great feeling. “It felt amazing to go out on the mats and win the gold medal because of the time and effort I have put in,” he said. “It feels great that I’m number one in the state and in the country for my division.” The young taekwondo star has won four

state titles and one national title. He has won all club and inter-club competitions with Royal Empire Martial Arts in Reservoir, standing undefeated. Lucas said his favourite move is a turning hook kick. “I like it because it looks good, and is a hard kick.” Lucas said his older brother played a large part in kick-starting his passion for taekwondo. “I [would] like to thank my older brother for teaching and guiding me and pushing me to my limits,” he said. Lucas has progressed to 2nd dan black belt, which he must hold for two years before progressing to the next level, a 3rd dan

black belt, according to the International Taekwondo Association. The black belt competitor said his next goal is to win the national title for the second time. Lucas said his goals for the future are “to become a world champion, and to teach other kids the art of taekwondo”. Lucas’ dad, Phillip Mamonitis, said he started taekwondo “really as a newborn” and has excelled ever since. “[Lucas] really puts in the hard work, and is doing so well,” he said. “He trains four to five times a week, including in the seniors class where his brother is. “He’s really pushing himself, and it pays off. “His trophy cabinet is completely full.”

Magbegor aims high May 4 Craigieburn’s AJ Magbegor represented Victoria at the first basketball championships of the year as part of the under-18 boys’ team. Magbegor, who regularly plays for Coburg, was one of nine Victorian National Performance (VNPP) athletes in the team, alongside Kristian Ferronato and Beau Tranter. Magbegor said the championships were a great learning experience. “To be able to represent my state in basketball and play the best players from around Australia was a really big highlight for me,” he said. “Having missed out in the previous year because of lockdown, it felt great being back on the court competing against top teams. “Seeing the large crowds was really enjoyable because it really gave me even more energy to go all out and leave everything on the court. “My teammates and coaches really made that week special to me, I learnt a lot from my experience there.” The 2020 Australian Junior Championships for under-18s were unable to go ahead due to the coronavirus pandemic. The 2021 championships were held in Wyndham in mid-April. Magbegor said he was “relieved” when he found out he had been chosen for the team following such a tough year. “When I was picked for the team … my body felt lighter,” Magbegor said. “There were a lot of players who tried out and could’ve been picked, so to have been recognised made me feel like all the hard work has really paid off.” Magbegor said he was disappointed the overall team result at the championships was not stronger. “I felt as if our team was capable of making it further than we did, so coming short really wasn’t the result I wanted,” he said. “For me though, it was a learning experience to know that things don’t always turn out the way you picture them. “Although we didn’t win the gold medal, it really showed me what I have to work on, I’m grateful for the experience.” Magbegor has been around successful basketball players for a long time, as the brother of Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) star Ezi Magbegor and Eltham Wildcats Basketball Club’s Ovie Magbegor. Ezi has played for WNBL’s Melbourne Boomers since the 2018-19 season. She has an average point score of 15.4 per game. Ovie previously represented the University of West Georgia’s Wolves basketball team. As a freshman, he played in 25 games and averaged 3.4 points per game. “My family members said they were proud of me making the team and also proud of my efforts I put into the training and the 18 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 January, 2022

Lucas Mamonitis at the state competition.

Kangaroos to join premier cricket comp June 29

AJ Magbegor represented Victoria at the Junior State Championships in Wyndham. (Basketball Victoria)

championship as well. “Each of them made it feel special for me having made the state team.” Magbegor said in looking to the future, he has his sights set high. “I look to make the state team again next

year and also the Australian team as well. “Long term, I want to make it to the NBA. “I will work very hard to make my dream become a reality. “It won’t be easy but I’ll keep at it.”

Greenvale Kangaroos will become the first Hume-based team to join the Women’s Victorian Premier Cricket competition. The club will join the competition in the 2022-23 season, starting with second and third XI sides. It will be the 10th team in the current competition. The move is massive for the Kangaroos women’s program, which only has a short history. They first fielded sides in 2018-19 in two different competitions. In 2019-20 they won two premierships in the Cricket Victoria Community Cricket north-west A competition. Last season they played in the higher division, the shield division, finishing sixth. They will continue to play in that competition in the 2021-22 season ahead of the move to premier cricket. Kangaroos president Bruce Kent said the announcement was a “great reward” for the club. “As a club we’re pretty thrilled, and quite proud to be invited,” Kent said. “It’s terrific … It’s just an unbelievably good decision for women in cricket in the north-west of Melbourne. “The elevation to the Women’s Premier competition will allow our players to play at the top level of club cricket in Victoria and, hopefully, over the next few years to vie for promotion to the Victorian teams.” Kent said the team will be using the 2021-22 season to prepare for the step up to premier cricket. “We’ll use the coming summer to our advantage to move in to full premier mode by the end of this summer,” he said. “We’re very excited … we’ve got a year to strengthen a few things [like] strengthening the coaching system, and we’ll be increasing our teams over the summer.” Kent said the club’s promotion to the elite level would provide female cricketers from Hume with a pathway to the highest state level. He said women’s coach, Catherine Morrow, and committee members Carmel Barone and Jill Boundy played an integral part in the club’s promotion. “They have strived so hard to grow women’s cricket, our junior teams and raise the standard over the last few years.”

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‘Truly blessed’: Thunder star signs with Storm MAY 18 Homegrown rugby league player Sua Fa’alogo has signed a three year contract with Melbourne Storm. The 18-year-old, who has honed his skills with the Northern Thunder Rugby League Club for the past five years, currently plays fullback for the Thunder’s under-21 squad. Fa’alogo said he was “truly blessed” for the opportunity to play with the Storm. “I feel grateful and thankful for the opportunity,” he said. “I was in shock mode for a couple of days, it did not feel real until after I officially signed my contract at the Melbourne Storm office. “I hope to learn and gain skills and knowledge from experienced players and coaching staff. “The Melbourne Storm pathway program is very well-structured, and it makes perfect sense as a next step in my career plan. “What is more … the Melbourne Storm have an excellent reputation, and I’d like to learn from the best, so I can perhaps one day also excel as a professional NRL player.”

Fa’alogo will start with Melbourne Storm next year.

(Melbourne Storm)

Fa’alogo’s coach at Northern Thunder, Henry Ene, said it makes sense the young player was signed to such a well-known club.

“Sua’s signing is a testament to his focus, determination, and hard training,” Ene said. “Being a club member since 2016, Sua had

shown attributes and skills that were always going to excel him in rugby league, the club is excited and extremely proud for Sua and will be supporting him all the way of his professional journey.” Storm recruitment officer and pathways manager Tim Glasby said the young player’s talent and work ethic made him stand out. “Sua is an exceptional young talent and his speed, footwork and strength has seen him become one of the standout players,” Glasby said. “Most importantly, he has a very good work ethic and a great attitude. He wants to work hard and improve his game.” Fa’alogo credits his family for his achievement. “I want to thank my parents in Samoa for their never-ending prayers and support. “My older brother Sua Snr Fa’alogo [also keeps] me grounded and sacrificed a lot just so my dream of playing in the Melbourne Storm [could] come true.” Fa’alogo will embark on his three year journey with Melbourne Storm from 2022 until the end of the 2024 season.

Old Paradians waiving footy fees for 2022 DECEMBER 14

Jian Fang Lay will be competing for Australia at the 2021 Olympic Games.

(Supplied)

Fang Lay’s Olympic score JULY 13 A Bundoora table tennis star is set to make history at the 2021 Olympic Games. Jian Fang Lay and dressage rider Mary Hanna will become the first women to compete at six Olympic Games for Australia. Fang Lay, 48, was named in the Australian table tennis team last month after Stephanie Sang withdrew from the team. Fang Lay made her Olympic debut at the 2000 Sydney Games. Last week she said she “never would’ve imagined” making history, and hopes her achievement can inspire others. “I hope this will inspire more girls to play table tennis,” she said. “As long as you have a dream, anything is possible. “I’ll make my team proud, give it my all, and fight for every point.” Fang Lay said her family was a large motivation for her. “I need to thank my family – husband and two boys – my friends – Warren and Jane –

that support me and keep me going,” Fang Lay said. “Without their support, without their strength, it would’ve been impossible for me to continue playing table tennis. “My family keeps me motivated – table tennis is our family sport. “The boys really enjoy it and we always play in the garage. “Without their support, I would never be where I am today.” Fang Lay is ranked 156 in the world, according to the International Table Tennis Federation ranking system. Her top ranking was 51 in October 2018. Fang Lay said her father is responsible for her love of table tennis. “My father was the one who got me into table tennis when I was six years old,” she said. “He really liked the sport and he was the one who encouraged me to play. “He trained me and made me fall in love with the sport.

“And ever since then, I’ve never stopped playing. “I owe it all to him. “Where I am today is all thanks to him.” Fang Lay is considered one of the country’s table tennis greats, with 13 international competition medals, including seven Commonwealth Games medals, 24 Oceania titles and 30 national titles, earned across her decades of competing. Fang Lay will be joined in Tokyo by Michelle Bromley, Melissa Tapper, Chris Yan, David Powell and Heming Hu. Fang Lay said she would continue to play table tennis for a long time. “Table tennis is a good exercise for the mind, for fitness, and for reactions,” she said. Speaking of her goals for Tokyo, Fang Lay said she would try her best. “My goal is to do the best I can and get the best result for Australia,” she said. Fang Lay will compete in the women’s teams and singles events at the Games, which begin on Friday, July 23.

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. Tuesday, 11 January, 2022 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 19

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