Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 15th March 2022

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Take a swing with the pros

Golf operations manager Lloyd White and the Eynesbury Golf Course will host the 2022 Master Pro-Am.

(Damjan Janevski) 271569_01

The Eynesbury Masters Pro Am will return this month, with the unique tournament giving amateur golfers the opportunity to play alongside the best in the business. Held at the Eynesbury Golf Course, the tournament will be held from Friday, March 25 to Sunday, March 27, with three days of action designed to entertain players of all kinds. Following a corporate competition held on the Friday, Eynesbury members and other casual golfers will be teamed up with professional players on Saturday. Visitors will then be treated to a show on Sunday, with a pros-only 18-hole tournament, the first time Eynesbury will host such an event in its 15-year history. Spectators may also catch a glimpse of other sporting heroes such as Richmond AFLW player Jess Hosking and jockey Damien Oliver. As a sponsor of the event, Resimax Group chief executive Steve Hooker said: “To say we’re excited to see this line-up in action is an understatement. “Over the three days, players of all abilities will have the chance to play on one of Victoria’s top 100 golf courses while picking up some helpful tips and tricks from the pros.”

Aged care access fears By Oliver Lees A key advocate for the welfare of older Australians has raised concerns that those accessing aged care in Moorabool may suffer the consequences as council facilitates its transition away from the service. On March 2, Moorabool councillors voted to pull the pin on council’s delivery of aged care and disability services. The withdrawal followed the findings of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which highlighted fundamental changes

to the manner in which financing would be managed between clients and providers. In a statement, Moorabool mayor Tom Sullivan described council’s decision as necessary to ensure clients “continue to receive the same level of service they are currently receiving”. Cr Sullivan said council had already commenced the process of finding successors to fill the void after its formal withdrawal, which will begin on June 30. Elder Rights Advocacy programs manager Debra Nicholl has seen this process take place

elsewhere in the country. Other regional council’s such as Horsham and Campaspe have already completed their own transitions. Ms Nicholl said that those accessing aged care can often have the quality of that service drop dramatically as management is shifted. “In particular, rural and regional areas have the tyranny of distance and workforce issues,” she said. Ms Nicholl said that regional care recipients often have more complex or specific needs, needs that providers without local understanding can struggle to fulfill.

“That’s the main fear for councils getting out of aged care provision, and I fear if [the provider] is not located within the town, it is going to be harder for them to access services,” she said. “Someone in a regional area may not have a taxi service, so they may need a subsidy towards other means of transport. “It is more a complicated arrangement between provider and the individual. “The fear is regional people will not need the flexibility of service [that comes with council withdrawal], what they need is a provider that understands the local context.”

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STIs prevalent in outer suburbs By Oliver Lees

The study found a total of 24,825 cases of the infection between 2017 and 2019, with 42 per cent of cases found in men who have sex with other men. Sexual health epdimiologist Eric Chow said higher case numbers were found in areas of great socioeconomic disadvantage. “Cases in women were concentrated in inner Melbourne, but there were also high numbers of cases in outer Melbourne local government areas such as Melton and Casey,” Mr Chow said. “The pattern was similar for heterosexual

Melton has been identified as a hotspot area in a rising number of gonorrhea infections across the state. The findings have come via an Alfred Health study which has tracked cases of the sexually transmitted infection (STI) over a decade. Gonorrhea has the potential to spread through unprotected sexual interactions and can create discomfort, unusual discharge and burning sensations around an individual’s sexual organs.

men with cases concentrated in inner Melbourne, Casey, and Brimbank.” Mr Chow said it was important to understand the nature of STIs and monitor for symptoms. “If you test positive, it is important to notify your sexual partners so they can get tested and treated,” he said. “[It] is important to know your STI status if you are sexually active. Some STIs do not have symptoms and hence regular testing is important for timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent ongoing transmission.”

In 2020, Alfred Health established the Victorian Sexual Health Network, where individuals can get tested at community centres for free. “The Kings Park Medical Centre Hillside is part of the Victorian Sexual Health Network, which is located closest to Melton,” he said. Mr Chow recommends that people use the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre website ‘Stay STI Free’ for recommendations and information about STI’s. Details: www.staystifree.org.au

Tower protest ramps up sunflowers and bottle brush trees. Most of the people there had never been to a protest in their lives.” Australian actor and Gordon resident Stephen Curry spoke at the rally alongside Ms Muir, Western Victoria Region MP Beverley Macarthur, Ripon MP Louise Staley and Ballarat Potato Growers Association chairman Chris Stephens. Ms Muir said she was hoping to have had the only opportunity to meet with a member of the state government but that did not eventuate.

Hundreds of opponents to the proposed Western Victorian Transmission Network Project took their fight to the steps of state Parliament on March 8, carrying sunflowers and calling for the mammoth plan to be refused. The AusNet project, which will see 380 high-voltage towers stretched across farmland in Melbourne’s west, had drawn stern criticism from farmers and other landholders for its effect on agriculture, the potential for greater bushfire risk and the removal of native vegetation. Stop Ausnet Towers chair Emma Muir estimated that more than 300 people attended the protest, along with 25 tractors and four horses. The Ballan Country Women’s Association organised a lunch for all participants who travelled to the protest via bus. “The key message is we’re here to send this back to the drawing board,” Ms Muir said. “It was a really positive day, we handed out

Oliver Lees

Front row, left to right: Actor Stephen Curry, Stop AusNet Towers chairman Emma Muir and Western Victorian Region MP Beverley Macarthur. (Nathan Lidgett) ADVERTISEMENT

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Council knocks back village plan ‘‘

By Oliver Lees

There is not even enough green space available for this size of a development - Lara Carli

Melton councillors have doubled-down on their disapproval of plans for a residential village development in Diggers Rest. At a meeting on March 7, council discussed the proposed development at Diggers Rest-Coimadai Road, which intends to transform the 43.3 hectare lot into a residential housing village. The proposal was first tabled and denied by councillors on June 28, 2021, as council held reservations about its potential negative effect on the neighbourhood aesthetic and increased traffic. The original plan sought to construct 333

’’

homes at the site which is located less than 200 metres from Diggers Rest Station. It is intended to include development at 23 Tame Street, which was negatively received during the community consultation period. In returning the application to the council chamber, the applicant, Prime Equity Group, made several adjustments to plan.

The total number of homes was brought down to 286, with each one forecast to be smaller in size. The applicant also excluded 23 Tame Street entirely from the updated vision for the residential village. Notably, Melbourne Airport removed its objection to the project leading Planning Minister Richard Wynne to amend the planning scheme’s Melbourne Airport Environs protection. Melton planning services manager Robert Baggio said the changes were enough to convince his department. “From a design perspective, it’s considered a significantly more appropriate development which provides much better amenity both to

the residents and also the surrounding area,” Mr Baggio said. But councillors did not agree with the officers’ assessment of the new plan. Deputy mayor Lara Carli gained support from her colleagues in moving an alternate motion suggesting that council would inform the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal of its disapproval. “The traffic congestion is what I spoke of last time this came before us and it’s still a huge concern for residents,” Cr Carli said. “To me when I read the report …… there is not even enough green space available for this size of a development.”

The ride way to travel to school and meeting up with friends along the way. Sometimes even the parents ride with them.” Mrs Walter said it was particularly pleasing to see the children file through the school gates each morning, given the restrictions around in-person learning throughout the pandemic. “It’s fantastic having them all back, they’ve all come back really settled, happy and excited,” she said.

Pentland Primary School pupils are gearing up for National Ride2School Day later this month. On Friday, March 25, Pentland’s pupils will join more than 300,000 children across the country in commuting to school via some form of active travel. The annual initiative was devised to encourage young people to have a healthy start to the day. This will be the first year Pentland has participated. Pentland assistant principal Sky Walter said she was hoping to see plenty of the school’s 392 pupils taking part. “We’re always encouraging kids be active,” Mrs Walter said. “We lead a walk around the school every morning to get kids out and about around school. “It’s great to see more and more kids riding

Amelia (front), with Tejas, Ebony and Violet will take part in ride to school day at Pentland Primary School. (Damjan Janevski) 271599_01

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Emily hopes to inspire other female sparkies Thornhill Park electrician Emily Waras hopes to inspire other woman to take up a trade. The Kangan Institute graduate works full-time as an electrical carriage maintainer for Alstom V/Line Maintenance. Her role involves maintaining, repairing and modifying all electrical components on V/ Line’s fleet of passenger trains The mother-of-two completed certificate III in electrotechnology electrician apprenticeship at Kangan’s Broadmeadows campus and shared her story as part of the TAFE’s International Women’s Day celebration on Tuesday, March 8, which focused on this year’s theme, #BreakTheBias. Ms Waras’ journey to becoming an electrician was somewhat unconventional – she discovered she was pregnant midway through her apprenticeship, which meant training adjustments and navigating a return to the industry as a new mum. “Kangan was an amazing support during my pregnancy. I was able to work with my teachers on when I could come in for exams or make arrangements that supported me,” she said. “I took six months off as part of maternity leave and that put me six months behind everyone else at my stage. When I returned, I commenced double the studies that most normal apprentices do and I studied an extra day a week. Once I finished that, I started night school for a post-trade certificate.” Ms Waras completed her apprenticeship in 2019 and was named Kangan Institute’s Apprentice of the Year. A year after, she was named Blackwood’s Tradie of the Year. These days, Ms Waras is committed to inspiring other young women to #BreakTheBias and works with Tradeswomen Australia as a

Briefs Melton speedster A Melton woman caught travelling at speeds of 180km/h had her vehicle impounded on March 7. Police said the woman’s car was spotted travelling about 136km/h in a 60km/h zone in Melton West about 2.50am. As the 31-year-old driver continued on to Ravenhall, it is alleged she reached a speed of 180km/h, more than double the speed limit. The woman will be charged on summons with dangerous speeding and exceeding the speed limit.

Darley Park upgrade

Emily Waras shared her story as part of Kangan Institute’s IWD celebrations. (Supplied)

mentor for new apprentices. “In March 2020 I was a spokesperson for International Women’s Day and spoke at the Apprenticeship Group Australia’s Try A Trade Day for high school aged girls. I was 39 weeks pregnant but it was important for me to show young girls that a tradeswoman can also have a family and other aspirations in life,” she said. Reflecting on challenges of being a working mum and a tradeswoman, Ms Waras said it was time to look beyond gender. “Every career has its challenges and working a trade is no different … While there can be obstacles entering a male dominated industry, our gender is not relevant in how well we do our job. I know I am respected and held to the same standards as any other electrician,” she said.

Works are officially under way on a new multi-purpose pavilion at Darley Park. The ground and the new facilities will feature a large community space, new meeting rooms and a female friendly change rooms, primarily to service Darley Football Netball Club activities. The club put up $481,000 for the project, with remainder financed through Moorabool council and the state government.

Multicultural event funding Multicultural event organisers in the are being encouraged to apply for funding. On March 8, the state government announced the Multicultural Festivals and Events Program for community initiatives held between July 1 and December 31, with grants of up to $50,000 available. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Survey points to financial stress By Oliver Lees A survey of residents living in the state’s growth areas has found they are more likely to feel stress in regards to their finances and mental wellbeing than other Victorians. The National Growth Areas Alliance (NGAA) report has drawn on a data set provided by AustraliaNOW, with more than 80,000 with adults living in outer urban areas across the country that have been identified as key growth zones. In Victoria, Melton is one of seven such local government areas, alongside the likes of Wyndham, Whittlesea and Hume.

‘‘

The lack of localised mental health services is a major barrier for people

’’

- Goran Kesic When compared with those living in non-growth areas, surveyed respondents in growth areas were found to be less equipped to withstand financial adversity. Almost half of all respondents in growth areas admitted to not having a financial buffer in case of emergency, while 34 per cent wished they had greater assistance to manage

their economic situation. Growth area respondents were also found to generally have a more frequent rate of negative emotions, yet accessed support to improve their mood less often. Melton mayor Goran Kesic said in addition to the challenge of catering to the burgeoning demands of the city, the COVID-19 pandemic had further complicated the lives of residents. “The lack of localised mental health services is a major barrier for people to access the support they need,” Cr Kesic said. “We are optimistic about the state government’s recent announcement of a new mental health centre in the City of Melton

and we look forward to seeing more detail on this. Cr Kesic said council with almost three quarters of Melton’s workforce leaving the municipality on a daily basis, the city will need a great investment roads and infrastructure. “This will enable our residents to access education, health services and employment and provide our residents with more family and recreation time, and better health outcomes,” he said. If you need mental health support, contact Lifeline. Details: 13 11 14

Diving into pool history Dina Bowman has embarked on a research project to share the story of the historic Gordon Swimming Pool, which for decades was a favourite hang out spot in town. Ms Bowman, a Gordon resident, recently participated in the state government-funded Cinespace program, where a group of Moorabool residents, aged between eight and 60-years-old, used their smartphones to learn basic photography and film techniques. Those involved in the program were challenged to make a short film to consolidate their skills. For Ms Bowman, the idea for her first project came immediately. “I’ve always been interested in the Gordon Swimming Pool,” she said. Official opened on Gladstone Street on December 28, 1930, the Gordon Swimming Pool provided a place of relaxation to residents

and visitors until its closure in 1997. “Everyone talks about the old glory days of the pool, it was the centre of town life,” Ms Bowman said. “It was spring fed and sounded like a fabulous thing that everyone enjoyed. “What’s so interesting about it, is now you’d never know it was there. The only traces are three poles that remain. “History, and oral history is important. Not just what is officially recorded, but what’s remembered.” Ms Bowman is currently putting the finishing touches on her short film and intends to share it with the community soon. Oliver Lees Dina Bowman (far left) and her fellow participants of the Cinespace program. (Cinespace)

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Survey reveals bus service gaps By Oliver Lees Poor frequency, lack of services and inadequate bus stops are among the leading concerns of bus users across Melbourne’s west, according to new data. Through an online community engagement platform, Friends of the Earth Melbourne Better Buses Victoria Survey has collected more than 550 feedback submissions from across the state. Of these submissions, 40 per cent of entries have been logged across western suburbs, including in Melton, Wyndham and Point Cook. Half of all respondents across Victoria felt

‘‘

Community members were disadvantaged with their access to key services - Laura Sykes

’’

their bus routes had ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’ service frequency. All in all, the state scored an average of 1.1 rating for bus frequency out of five. One respondent posting from McKenzie Street in Melton stated: “[Melton is a] growth area but hasn’t had full network revamp for years. Buses are only

infrequent, especially on weekends. Need a more frequent and direct network with simpler routes.” Sustainable cities co-ordinator Laura Sykes said this sentiment of infrastructure lagging behind the rate of population growth was another trend identified in the data. “The other common finding was that many bus routes had poor or no connections to major hubs like shopping centres, education, employment and other key community services,” Ms Sykes said. “Therefore community members were disadvantaged with their access to key services due to the infrequent and disconnected nature of bus services in their areas.”

Ms Sykes she hopes to see the state government apply these findings as they plan Victoria’s public transport future. “A practical solution is for smaller, more frequent shuttle buses to run on the arterial roads to estates where bigger buses can’t fit, and that these could be 100 per cent electric shuttle buses,” she said. “It was great to hear last week that the first electric bus depot will be in Sunshine and the West will receive some of the first electric buses, however we know that in addition to this, improving frequency and connections of services is essential to increasing ridership and therefore reducing reliance on private cars.”

Brookside’s new look The refurbishment and extension of the Brookside Community Pavilion is now complete. The space on Federation Way in Caroline Springs has reopened with an increased capacity of 120 people and also features refurbished club rooms and a female friendly change rooms. The upgrade was a joint funding effort of the state government ($850,000) and Melton council ($686,000). Western Metropolitan Region MP Cesar Melhem said the space was necessary to meet increasing demand for sporting infrastructure. “Caroline Springs is one of the fastest-growing areas of Melbourne. It’s important for local and state governments to continue to work together and provide facilities like these,” Mr Melhem said.

“This project has renewed the pavilion and I hope locals come and make the most of it!” Melton mayor Goran Kesic said he was excited to see the asset used by the community. “With this new infrastructure in place, we now hope to see a greater uptake in memberships and participation in sports, increasing the activity of our local residents and having a positive impact on both mental and physical health,” he said. I’m looking forward to continuing to work to deliver quality infrastructure that keeps pace with our city’s rapid population growth.”

Western Metropolitan MP Cesar Melhem and Melton mayor Goran Kesic. (Supplied)

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Pricing under the pump By Benjamin Millar

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

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

‘‘

strongly encourage residents to complain to the ACCC

’’

- Steve McGhie

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

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

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

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

area. There are also other factors including exchange rates, taxes and local operating costs.” On Monday, unleaded 91 pump prices at Melton’s BP, Coles Express and 7/11 Mobil were all at 155.9 cents per litre, according to price comparison website Petrol Spy, with Woolworths Caltex at 168.9. Meanwhile Bacchus Marsh BP, Coles Express and 7/11 Mobil prices were 129.9 cents per litre – 26 cents less per litre – and independent outlets were just 119.9 cents per litre. 628174

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Wave g’day on Neighbour Day Melton council will celebrate Neighbour Day for the first time later this month, with special prizes designed to encourage community values. Starting 20 years ago as an initiative of Relationships Australia, Neighbour Day, which takes place on March 27 each year, was designed to address loneliness in communities across the country. Neighbour Day ambassador Andrew Heslop first developed the concept after hearing of the

‘‘

A lot of our residents feel isolated - Steve Abboushi

’’

news of Elsie Brown, who lay dead in her home for two weeks before she was found. On March 7, Melton councillor Steve Abboushi brought the suggestion of promoting the event across the municipality. Mr Abboushi said following two challenging years brought on by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the community deserved a day to

celebrate togetherness. “A lot of our residents feel isolated, they haven’t been able to mix with their neighbors,” Cr Abboushi said. “I just think to be able to bring them a little bit of cheer for such a small cost per ward would probably go a long way. We want to try and encourage people to get back to normality and to do things together and to look out for each other.” With the proposal receiving support from the chamber, council officers will now set about establishing a campaign where residents can go into the draw to win a prize valued up to $250

Houli on faith and footy Former footballer Bachar Houli will launch this year’s Brimbank Readers and Writers Festival on March 17 with his autobiography, ‘Bachar Houli: Faith, Football and Family’. Houli, who was the first devout Muslim to play AFL, will kick start the 10- day festival with writer, journalist and producer Paul Bateman to discuss his book, co-authored with Waleed Aly. Houli hopes the book can give people confidence to show their true identity and to have an open mind. “When I first started playing for Essendon Football Club, the faith of Islam was getting critised for a lot of things out there that clearly wasn’t under the practice of Islam and I felt like it was my duty along with a lot of other community leaders to stand up and speak the truth and educate others about what our faith represents,” Houli said. “I was privileged enough to have that opportunity at the Essendon Football Club and

from a local business. Each of council’s three wards will host an event to mark the occasion, with $3000 going to each area to facilitate the festivities. Cr Kathy Majdlik said she was happy to support the Melton’s newest celebration. “I actually don’t believe it’s a cost, it’s an investment into our community,” Cr Majdlik said. “I think what the pandemic has done and the restrictions that we’ve been through the last two years has caused absolute devastation in our community.”

(Supplied)

By Oliver Lees

the flow on effect at the Richmond Football Club and even the wider AFL community to teach them that Islam is truly a religion of peace and welcoming people just like any other religion which promotes happiness, peace and tranquility. “I am truly thankful for people around me accepting who I am because I am different to every other player, I have limitations and things I couldn’t do as part of a normal footballers day to day life.” Houli said the book had lessons for all in society and not just Muslim Australians “It doesn’t just refer to Muslims, it refers to someone who has differences, who belongs to a different faith, who belongs to a different culture that is not part of the norm in that environment.” Details: brimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au/ writersfestival Max Hatzoglou

BACHAR HOULI

Tuesday, 15 March, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 9


SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

15 March 2022

Mayor’s message Cr Goran Kesic

STAY INFORMED Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

Last week, we marked International Women’s Day and it was wonderful to see the achievements of so many women celebrated.

Celebrating our many cultures Join us for a free event packed with kids’ activities, cultural performances, multicultural food, and more this Saturday 19 March.

family and friends and discover the many different cultures that make the City of Melton a vibrant and diverse place to live.

This special event for Harmony Day is a great opportunity to get together with

It’s on at the Willows Historical Park in Melton from 11am until 3pm.

New Aboriginal art exhibition Come and explore and celebrate Indigenous culture and heritage through a beautiful new display of traditional Aboriginal artworks at Melton Library. The Winanga Burruguu exhibition, by emerging Melton artist and proud Kamilaroi woman, Lucy Webster, displays traditional paintings that share Webster’s own cultural heritage.

To find out more about local Harmony Day celebrations, visit melton.vic.gov.au/harmonyday

Planning work at your place? Are you planning a renovation, new building or other work on your property and unsure if you need a permit? We have a new online tool that will help you easily find out what type of work requires a permit. It’s an interactive virtual house that explains what’s required for building things like

pergolas and sheds, renovating your bathroom, and more. If you do need a permit, you can use our online portal to easily submit your request online. Take a look at the virtual house, and use the permit guidance tool at melton.vic.gov.au/housepermit

Cambridge Ward with Cr Steve Abboushi Over the past couple of years, I think we have all come to appreciate the importance of good health, social freedoms, family and friends, and the joys our neighbours bring to our lives.

I also put forward a Notice of Motion requesting that Council write to the Minister for Roads and Road Safety, asking for the duplication for Christies Road Bridge to accommodate traffic overflow during peak periods.

That’s why I put forward a Notice of Motion at the March Council Meeting, recommending that Council promote and celebrate Neighbour Day on Sunday 27 March. We’ll be hosting community events, competitions, and providing funding opportunities for residents to help them celebrate, so follow us on Facebook @cityofmelton for updates.

The bridge carries 9,000 vehicles per day, forming part of a key north south transport corridor. However, as a single carriageway, it creates bottlenecks during peak hours, that result in major delays and serious safety concerns. Council will ask the Minister to prioritise the duplication of Christies Road as a matter of urgency.

We welcomed some amazing guest speakers to the City of Melton, including diversity and inclusion advocate Rhiannon Tracey who told her inspirational story of hope after suffering a spinal cord injury, and author Akuch Kuol Anyieth, who shared her journey from refugee to successful academic. Thank you to everyone who joined in these special events, as well as those who came along to the International Women’s Day community activities including yoga, zumba and karate for women, mentoring and job readiness.

Using a strong colour palette and a mixture of techniques, she explores plants, animals, Dreamtime and symbols from her own ancestral stories.

Our City is home to so many amazing people who are committed to calling out bias, stereotypes and discrimination, and it was powerful to also see these messages shared.

Winanga Burruguu is on now until July at the Melton Library. To find out more, visit melton.vic.gov.au/ winangaburruguu

This month, we also officially opened the much-anticipated extension and refurbishment of the Brookside Community Pavilion.

Finally, works on the signalisation of intersections along Caroline Springs Boulevard, to improve connectivity and ease traffic congestion, have commenced. Design of the Rockbank Middle Road intersection is complete, and construction will start this year, and take 12 months to complete. Works on The Crossing and Taylors Road intersections will take place in 2023 and 2024. Please feel free to contact me for Cambridge Ward or Council related issues on 0437 231 680 or steve.abboushi@melton.vic.gov.au, or like my Facebook page @AbbsMelton

The upgrade will support a growth in local sports participation and I look forward to seeing it being used and enjoyed to its full potential. In more positive news for our growing community, five new and expanded kindergartens, catering for more than 1,000 new kinder places, will be built across the City of Melton. It’s part of a new partnership between Council and the Victorian Government to help ensure every child gets the best start to their development and education. Please feel free to contact me on 0437 241 436 or goran.kesic@melton.vic.gov.au regarding any Council issues.

Your Councillors – Visit melton.vic.gov.au/councillors to find your ward Councillors and their contact details

Mayor Cr Goran Kesic

Deputy Mayor Cr Lara Carli

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Moira Deeming

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all 10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 March, 2022

Cr Kathy Majdlik

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg


STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

A dedicated star for 30 years By Oliver Lees When Star Weekly sales co-ordinator Rita Elzmeter interviewed for her first job at Community News in 1992, she was quizzed on her work ethic. “I was asked if I was the type who would often take sick days. Of course, I was young and healthy, I answered I never took sick leave,” Rita said. “The day I started I had a temperature of 38.7 [degrees celsius], but I still went to work. “[My employer] took one look at me and thanked me for coming. He was happy that I made the effort to come to work.” In the 30 years that have followed that first day in the newspaper industry, Rita, despite shifting roles and working at a number of different mastheads, has remained steadfast in her commitment to quality service within the community newspaper business. On March 3, Star News Group staff joined in celebrating Rita’s three decades of hard work within the industry. She said her role and the newsroom had changed dramatically over the years. “Everything was manual back then,” she said. “There were no emails, but there was a lot of faxing. “We would do the ads manually on A3 paper and stick them on the board, then we would send them to Dandenong to be processed.“ While the process may have changed, Rita said it’s the colleagues and the clients she’s met along the way that have made it all worthwhile. “I’m a big believer in customer service,” she said. “I’ve seen weddings, funerals, births. You name it, I’ve seen it all. “I love the clients and I love the people I work with. It’s not just work, I’ve built real relationships.” Star News Group managing director Paul Thomas said Rita had been a crucial piece in

Star Weekly ’s Rita Elzmeter has celebrated her 30th anniversary at the company. Inset: Rita Elzmeter (left) in 1992. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski and supplied)

the masthead’s ongoing success. “Congratulations to Rita and thank you for her service across the industry over the 30 years,” Mr Thomas said. “Local media producing public interest journalism has never been more important. “Star Weekly is one of the few local news

media businesses left operating in metro areas of capital cities in Australia and Rita’s ongoing contribution to this vital service and essential part of democracy is to be commended.” The Star News Group is looking for more sales executives to join the team and work closely with clients and colleagues. On the job training

will be provided to successful applicants, with a strong team culture and great office location in Keilor Park just waiting for the right fit. For more information on the role or to apply, email Star Weekly account manager Gayle Williams. Details: gayle.williams@starweekly.com.au

Go on a caravan adventure with Bluey’s family and friends.

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NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Environment group calls it a day By Oliver Lees The Melton Environment Group (MEG) will stop operating after June 2022, after the club’s committee decided it was an appropriate time to wind up its activities due to an ageing and dwindling base of volunteers. Led by president Daryl Akers, MEG has been a fixture of the Melton community, educating people on the importance of environmental preservation, while also leading projects and working bees. In 2013, the organisation received the Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria Sustainable Cities Award for its Bio-links, Birds and Blogging project at the Creekline Grassy Woodland.

Daryl Akers.

(Supplied)

The group has also regularly ventured out to Arnolds Creek for planting and weeding activities, in an attempt to strengthen Melton’s

wildlife corridor. Mr Akers said as proud as he was of the group’s work, he felt it had reached the end of its life. “The pandemic over the last couple years really sounded the death knell for groups like ours, as older members passed away and retired from the group,” Mr Akers said. “There are some younger people who are interested [in the environment]. It’s good to see The Friends of Melton Botanic Gardens and the Eynesbury Environment Group are both thriving. “Things have a natural lifespan, they thrive and then they slow down.” Mr Akers said he had seen Melton change and develop before his very eyes.

“These are a lot of people here with their young families, they’re fairly busy. They’ve got to pay the mortgage and there’s a lot more pressure on people I think,” he said. “There’s also a lot of people newly arrived from inner-city areas, and they don’t really have the connection with the local environment out here.” Mr Akers said he would continue to involve himself in the Eynesbury and Pinkerton landcare groups. “We need to take care of our local environment. [Melton is] one of the fastest growing areas in the state, there’s a huge amount of development. But as much as we need development, we need to protect what’s left of our natural environment,” he said.

AUSTRALIA’S ECONOMIC PLAN We’re taking the next step to keep our economy strong. • • • • • •

Keeping taxes low, because money in your pocket eases the cost of living Infrastructure projects across the country are creating jobs Skilling the workforce for the jobs of tomorrow Committing to making more goods in Australia to help secure our supply chain Delivering affordable and reliable energy to our homes and businesses Backing Australian businesses to modernise and innovate for our future

Australia’s Economic Plan has helped us through the last two years. There are 260,000 more people in work than before COVID. Australia has performed better than major advanced economies through the pandemic. That’s why we’re taking the next step.

To find out more, visit economicplan.gov.au

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra. 12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 March, 2022

CoAct and Youth Projects are bringing their successful youth employment program to Western melbourne from July 1. (Youth Projects)

Help for young job seekers Two employment services providers are bringing their successful youth employment program to Melbourne’s western suburbs. Not-for-profit organisation CoAct, in collaboration with Youth Projects, has been awarded the rights to bring the federal government’s Transition to Work (TtW) program to the west, which aims to help 15 to 24 year olds find employment by giving them access to accredited vocational training and education. CoAct chief executive Matt Little said the program is customer-centred and flexible, and achieves high levels of sustained impact for the participants. “Specialist programs like TtW are at the heart of the recent increase in youth employment, helping highly disadvantaged young people to develop practical skills to get a job or connect with education or training,” he said. “Young people, and young people in Melbourne particularly, have been some of the hardest hit by the pandemic. We’ve been there to help them navigate the challenges it’s brought and will continue to do so.” The program will have a strong focus on delivering mental health support, with Youth Projects providing help for alcohol, drugs and other issues to ensure young jobseekers receive the most effective support based on their needs. “This is no ordinary jobs program. Our new approach has embedded mental health support to help young people recover from the pandemic and build resilience for their future,” Youth Projects chief executive Ben Vasiliou said. The program will start on July 1. Details: www.coact.org.au


STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Warne’s death casts long shadow By Elsie Lange “He always left a lasting impression.” That’s how many people, including his ex-brother-in-law Rodney Callahan, will remember Shane Warne. You’d be hard-pressed to find a person in Australia who wasn’t shocked by the sudden, tragic death of one of the greatest spin-bowlers of all time at age 52, on March 4. Warne’s death has sent shockwaves through communities of cricket lovers including in Melbourne’s north-west.

‘‘

It just shows the legacy that he’ll leave

’’

- Rodney Callahan

On the field, he was a champion, a marvel of a sportsperson to behold with the larrikin charisma of the every-man people laughed with and at, charmed or appalled, captivated all the same. Warne took 708 wickets in 145 test matches, including 37 five-wicket hauls, and had a top score of 99. Following retirement in 2013, Warne began commentating, where he continued to sway eye balls to the screens. Callahan, curator at Keilor Cricket Club, described how Warne supported his club through the years and was happy to lend a hand. Callahan is the brother of Simone Callahan, Warne’s ex-wife. “Shane was always very generous with his time, he did football functions for us, cricket functions, donated apparel and gave us cricket bats and signed I reckon nearly every Keilor footballer and cricketer’s merchandise,” Callahan said. “I used to go over there with suitcases of it and we would spend hours together, and there he was, signing it all.” Callahan said Warne had a soft spot for community sport, and thanks to his involvement in Keilor’s functions, the club was able to afford to improve their facilities, buy more equipment

Main: The Shane Warne statue outside the MCG and, inset, tributes to Warnie. (Pictures: Supplied) Above: Peter Hatzoglou recalls how generous Shane Warne was with his time. (AAP Image/Matt Turner) Above right: Shane Warne celebrates Australia’s win at the 1999 World Cup. (Supplied)

and experience success on and off the field. He said the support his family has received since Warne’s death has been “overwhelming”. “We get messages, people send us photos of Shane, and a photograph of them together,” Callahan said. “It just shows the legacy that he’ll leave. “It’s very, very sad. Sad for the family, but sad for so many people in so many different parts of life where he connected with them – he always left a lasting impression.” Among those to feel Warne’s generosity was Sunshine’s Peter Hatzoglou. A rising leg spinner in the Big Bash League, the 23-year-old said Warne had been generous in his interactions. “My relationship with Shane began in the off season in July 2021, where I was training in Melbourne,” Hatzoglou said. “I reached out to him on Instagram – I sent him a message just asking for some advice on a few little things – I hardly expected him to get back to me, but he did. “I think a lot of people in the past week have spoken about how generous he was with his time and how he was humble and all

that, even after achieving the stuff he did achieve. “That’s been my experience with him.” Hatzoglou said growing up, he’d tried to imitate Warne’s style of bowling “with the slow big turning leg spinners”. “That was something I just did naturally, because everyone wanted to bowl like Warnie, he’d been so successful,” Hatzoglou said. “For me, my bowling style, although I bowl leg spin, it’s almost like a different leg spin as you can bowl to Shane Warne. “I tried to bowl like him … [But] no one can really bowl like him.” Owen Phillips, a spin bowler and senior player at the Lancefield Cricket Club, said Warne was the reason he bowls leg spin. “Everyone my age who saw him playing throughout the 2000s has a leg spin delivery that they’ve got as a result of watching him play,” the 27-year-old said. “He’s such a big cultural touchstone that any time you do something on the field, especially for spin bowling, you probably think, ‘There’s a bit of Warnie in that’.” Phillips will never forget seeing Warne take

his 700th wicket at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in 2006. “Probably one of the biggest sporting moments I’ll ever get to witness.” Rupertswood Cricket Club president Peter Kavanagh described what it was like to have Warne come down to the birthplace of the Ashes for a clinic in 2011. Kavanagh was junior co-ordinator of the club at the time and said there was a “huge buzz” at the ground. “It was a very special day for cricket in Sunbury for sure,” he said. While many have highlighted Warne’s on field glory and the off-field scandals, Callahan remembers a man whose main focus was his family and his kids. “Those children are so well-grounded, they love their dad, they love their mum,” Callahan said. “That was the most important thing for Shane and Simone to have those children be so grounded, which they are, they’re so beautiful. “They will continue with his legacy, and the name, and that’s the most important thing that will come out of all of this.” Tuesday, 15 March, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13


BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Don’t forget our missing people One person goes missing in Australia every 18 minutes. While most of them are later found, approximately 2600 people remain lost. Their families and loved ones remain tormented by so many haunting questions and rarely receive any resolutions. Fatima Halloum speaks to the director of an organisation whose mission is to raise awareness for those who haven’t been found.

Leave a Light On helps bring national attention to missing persons cases. (iStock)

F

amilies of missing people are thrust into an unimaginable situation. It’s a stark and frightening reality that Leave a Light On director Suzie Ratcliffe knows all too well. “You read about it happening in the paper, or you see it on the news, or on social media, and you think, poor family or I really feel for them. But then you turn the page and move on to your next story.” Suzie lives in Victoria, but works with people all across the country. Through her organisation, she provides emotional support for the families of missing people and promotes cases that are desperate for public assistance on her Facebook page. “The concept for Leave a Light On was initially created because for families of missing loved ones, one of their greatest fears is that they’ll be forgotten. “We’re reliant on somebody remembering a vital piece of information if we’ve got any hope of finding our loved one, or if it was a crime, then bringing someone to justice.” Because there are so many cases that people never hear about, Suzie is hopeful that at the very least, she is able to generate national awareness. “Just a small piece of information that we put on our page encourages people to go forth and do a bit more research. And then they suddenly realise that, ‘oh I was in that area’, or ‘I used to live in that suburb’ or they might know someone that could have been in that area,” Suzie said. “It is always important to speak about it with other people. Because that person might not realise that they have that little piece of information that’s needed by the police to be able to link it all together.” Suzie says it never feels any less heart-breaking reading the stories of missing people, researching their cases and connecting with their families, but they draw strength from each other. “They feel like my own family. Every time they have disappointing news or a disappointing outcome, or they have good news, or they’re contacted by police I feel the elation, I feel the emotions.” 14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 March, 2022

The suspected abductor is described as standing approximately 177cm with a stooped appearance, wearing a brown hat with a wide brim, a grey checked sports coat and brown trousers. (Supplied)

“It’s a horrible connection to be dealt with. I wish I’d met a lot of these families under completely different circumstances. But unfortunately, we’ve all been drawn together by the same type of situation.” Suzie knows first-hand what the families she connects with are going through. In 1973, in Adelaide, South Australia, her sister Joanne went missing. Her disappearance occurred only seven years and 13 kilometres from the beach where the Beaumont Children vanished. “I never thought we would be in the same position as them,” Suzie said. “Fast forward, and suddenly it’s our family that’s in the newspaper, and it’s our family being spoken about on the radio, and we’re the ones that are putting ourselves out there and trying to get people to come forward with information.” Suzie’s family, her mum, her dad, her older

brother and her sister Joanne were attending a football game, seated beside them were strangers, four-year-old Kirste Gordon and her grandparents. When Kirste needed to use the bathroom, Joanne offered to take her and the two went together to the toilets. It’s been 48 years, six months and 19 days since Joanne and Kirste were last seen. Spectators remember seeing Kirste in the arms of a man, 11-year-old Joanne followed, looking distressed. Despite numerous suspects, police were unable to locate the girls and Suzie’s father, mother and brother died without knowing what happened to Joanne. “When you lose someone through death, they’ve got a grave, you can go and visit, you can bury them. You can begin the grieving process and with that grieving process comes a healing process as well,” Suzie said. “But with not knowing what happened to your loved one, they’re out there somewhere, whether they’re deceased, or whether they’ve been held captive, or are horrible victims of crime, or they’ve gone missing through adventure, you’re constantly wondering where they are.” Suzie’s parents would leave their front porch light on, in the hopes that if Joanne returned, she would know they were waiting for her. Missing person’s cases are often limited by state lines and Suzie aims to give the cases she advocates for national coverage, not just local publicity. “Missing persons don’t know any borders,” Suzie said. “We don’t just stick to our little suburbs. I travel 40 minutes to work. I can hear about things that happen on the other side of Melbourne, I travel up to Wangaratta every second week. I can see things up there but not necessarily know that I might have seen or heard something that’s important. “Ultimately, someone somewhere knows something about our missing persons. And if we can reach that person, then all the better to be able to encourage them to come forward and contact Crime Stoppers or contact the police or family in the hope that information they have can help.”

Kirste attending the football game with her grandparents, while her parents visited friends. (Supplied)

Joanne’s family say she had a passion and a zest for life, and her family. (Supplied)


STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY

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

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club The Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets at 10am on the second Tuesday of each month at the Melton Country Club. The group is open to everyone, new and old members, to get together and discover the social aspects of the group. ■ Ann, 0425 705 150

Singing group Do you enjoy singing and want to meet fellow singers in your area? Join the Melton South Community Singers at the Melton South Community Centre. Rehearsals are held on the first and third Tuesday of each month. ■ Sue, 0400 082 413

Andrew Mcleay with the bottles and coin he found. (Joe Mastroianni) 270667_01

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

Zonta club meets Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. ■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

Mahjong group Interested in learning to play Mahjong? The game is a tile-based game that is derived from China where it was developed in the 19th century. U3A Melton has a group who play on Tuesdays at 10am. ■ u3amelton.com or 0419 563 016

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 welcome. ■ 9746 0271

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park The Rose Carers meet 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

Melton Cycling Club Melton Cycling club meets for regular Sunday rides. There are three different riding groups to cater for different abilities starting at 7.30am. The rides finish at Lazy Moe’s for a cuppa. ■ 0403 057 003

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets the second Tuesday of each month at Melton Country Club at 10am. New members welcome. ■ 0425 705 150

Melton Parkinson’s support group The Melton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the second Thursday of the month 10.30am-12.30pm at Kurunjang Community Centre, 33-35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. New members and carers welcome. ■ Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Friendship Group Are you single, over 55 and a resident living in or near Melton? Looking for some new friends? Then the Melton Friendship Group

is the right group for you! The group meets fortnightly for coffee and chat nights and organised affordable outings and events. ■ 0406 493 734

French and Italian for over 50s Over 50, retired, or semi-retired and wanting to learn a language? U3A Melton offers French and Italian classes for beginners and those with more advanced skills. ■ www.u3amelton.com or 0419 563 016

Learn how to pamper Discover how to give relaxing beauty treatments in Melton South Community Centre’s upcoming Deluxe Facials workshop. The event will be run on Saturday, March 26 from 10am to 1pm. Tickets are $60 or $55 for concession holders. ■ 9747 8576

Pie workshop Ever wanted to learn how to make the perfect pie? Melton South Community Centre is hosting a savoury pie masterclass on Saturday, March 26 and Sunday, March 27 from 9am-noon. Participants can learn the art of making the perfect meat-filled or meat-free for friends and family. ■ 9747 8576

Writers and Readers Festival The Brimbank Writers and Readers Festival (BWRF) is an annual event that encourages a love of reading and literature, celebrates creativity and diversity, and promotes lifelong learning in Brimbank. The free festival which runs between March 17 and 26 includes workshops, author talks, panel discussions, writing, storytelling and more. ■ https://www.brimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au/ writersfestival

guest speakers and experiences centered on core tenets of mental health and wellbeing; fostering diversity, inclusion, connection, courage and belonging along the journey line. ■ https://www.knowshowgrowfestival.com/ program

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. New members welcome. ■ Steve, 0408 193 793, or Keith, 0409 494 801

Women’s group Duke Street Community Centre has set up a women’s social group to give people a place to interact. The group will run every second Friday, from 1pm, as a way to connect with other women in the community in a safe, fun and social way. It will be developed to suit the needs of the participants and will be in a casual setting. ■ 9311 9973

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

Deer Park probus The Deer Park Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at The Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, from 10am. New members and visitors welcome. ■ Don, 0409 191 580

Rainbow Coffee Club Know Yourself Breaking ground as the first dedicated mental health festival of its kind in Brimbank, the Know Yourself, Show Yourself, Grow Yourself Festival aims to raise awareness and normalise conversations about mental health. The weeklong festival will run from Monday, March 21 to Friday, March 25, at Sunshine Heights Primary School, and feature a free public program bustling with workshops,

Join the Rainbow Coffee Club for coffee and conversation on the last Friday of the month. The next catch up is on Friday, February 25, 11am at the Social Foundry Kyneton. Connecting LGBTIQA+ people of all ages. ■ Belinda Brain healthpromotion@scchc. org.au

Rotary club The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every

Tuesday at the Sunbury Bowling Club from 7pm. ■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

Ladies probus The Woodlands Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury meets on the fourth Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 9.45 am. The club is based on fun, friendship and fellowship and enjoys monthly outing and a lot of fun meetings. ■ Val, 0418 138 214

Sunbury Combined Probus Club The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Football Social Club at 10am. Visitors and new members welcome. ■ Carmel, 0416 477 271

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

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

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

Musicians welcome Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join its community band. Rehearsals are held Mondays from 7.30pm at the Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newport. ■ Roger Lewis, hbcityband@gmail.com, or www.hbcb.org.au Tuesday, 15 March, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15


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FREE EVERY WEEK 12477071-CG03-21

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Illustrations light up library

(Supplied)

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

Nursing boss ba nned

Benjamin Millar

By Benjamin Millar

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Bacchus Marsh 7/11 Service Station 28 Baccus Marsh Road

Bacchus Marsh Foodworks 1 Bennett Street

Bacchus Marsh Coles Supermarket Cnr Bennett and Young Street (The Village Shopping Centre)

Bacchus Marsh My Little Mates Convenience Store 151 Gisborne Road (Darley Plaza Shopping Centre)

• •

Bacchus Marsh Bacchus Marsh Newsagency 138 Main Street

Bacchus Marsh Arbee Real Estate 140 Main Street

Bacchus Marsh Sweeney Real Estate 164 Main Street

Bacchus Marsh Stockdale and Leggo Real Estate 191 Main Street

Bacchus Marsh Moorabool Shire 182 Halletts Way

• •

Bacchus Marsh Milk Bar the Avenue 208 Main Street

Bacchus Marsh Bacchus Marsh Information Centre 215 Main Street

Bacchus Marsh The Village Shopping Centre Main Street

Bacchus Marsh Bellbrook Gardens Country Club 168 Underbank Boulevard

• •

Ballan Ballan Newsagency 133 Inglis Street Ballan IGA Plus Liquor - Ballan 135 Inglis Street

• • • • • • • • • •

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

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

CNR KEILOR MELT

Your bigger and be tter Melton East is now open ON RD AND HIGH ST,

MELTON EAST

5-Lane Drive-thru

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Melton Harcourts Real Estate 306 High Street

Melton Kurunjang Village Store 51 Kurunjang Drive

Melton Professionals Real Estate 317 High Street

Melton Melton Library 31 McKenzie Street

Melton MGS Grocery Store 358 High Street

Melton Melton Country Club 28-30 Reserve Road

Melton Freddy’s Fruit & Veg 393 High Street

Melton YPA Real Estate - Melton 272274 High Street

Melton Melton Indoor Sports Centre 65 Reserve Road

Melton Morgans Supa IGA 335-345 High Street

Melton Coles 11 Station Street (Melton Station Square)

Melton Foodworks Shop 1, 415-429 High Street

Melton Lee Merchants 29 Wallace Square

Melton Woodgrove Shopping Centre 533-555 High Street

Melton South Station Square Shopping Centre 25 Station Road

Melton Woolworths Supermarket 523531 High Street (Coburns Shopping Centre)

Melton South Coles Express Shop 1-9 Station Street & Brooklyn Road

Rockbank Rockbank Newsagency 1157 Leakes Road

Melton Woolworths Supermarket 533555 High Street (Woodgrove Shopping Centre)

Melton Coles Supermarket 533-555 High Street (Woodgrove Shopping Centre)

Rockbank Sundowner Rockbank Caravan Park 2057-2083 Western Highway

Toolern Vale Toolern Vale General Store Lot 23 Diggers Rest Road

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16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 March, 2022


PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 072

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

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

6 4

8

7 1 2 8

8 4 5 3 5

6 9

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

Beverage powder (5) Female religious leader (9) Runway hub (7) Continuing (7) Requirements (7) Questionable (7) Medieval scientist (9) Type of goats’ cheese (4) Show sullenness (4) Female killer (9) Winning emotion (7) Local law enforcer (7) Contact (7) Beginning (7) Seizing (9) Meower (5)

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

No. 072

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 14 15 16 18 20 21 23 24

An ancient Semitic person (8) Pottery (7) Decoration (9) Metallic element (9) False gods (5) Warnings (5) Famous (7) The outstanding features to be seen on a visit (6) Terrible beating (9) – the Great, Prussian King (1712-1786) (9) Advantageously (8) A region in southern Japan (7) Snobby (7) Barbers (6) Melody (5) A language spoken in India (5)

DECODER

No. 072

3 8

9 1

2 1 7

6 7 3 2

8 5

6

hard

1 2

7 6 2

6 9 1 7 3 2 2

4 1

6

2

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

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

7 16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

9-LETTER WORD

easy

medium

8 5 3 4 6 9 7 1 2

3 5 2 7 4 6 9 1 8

6 4 7 1 9 8 2 5 3

9 1 8 2 3 5 4 6 7

8 3 5 4 6 9 1 7 2

4 6 1 5 7 2 8 3 9

7 2 9 3 8 1 5 4 6

5 8 6 9 1 3 7 2 4

1 9 4 6 2 7 3 8 5

2 7 3 8 5 4 6 9 1

1 7 4 5 8 2 3 9 6

6 2 9 7 3 1 5 4 8

4 3 5 6 1 7 2 8 9

7 6 8 2 9 4 1 3 5

9 1 2 3 5 8 4 6 7

2 4 1 8 7 6 9 5 3

3 9 6 1 2 5 8 7 4

5 8 7 9 4 3 6 2 1

hard 8 4 3 1 6 9 2 7 5

1 5 6 7 4 2 3 9 8

2 7 9 5 3 8 4 1 6

3 6 4 9 1 7 5 8 2

7 2 8 6 5 3 9 4 1

9 1 5 8 2 4 6 3 7

6 9 2 3 7 1 8 5 4

4 3 7 2 8 5 1 6 9

5 8 1 4 9 6 7 2 3

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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”.

F

Today’s Aim: 19 words: Good 29 words: Very good 39 words: Excellent

N

B

D

E

E I

T

E

beef, been, beet, befit, bend, benefit, BENEFITED, bent, betide, bide, bidet, bite, debit, debt, debtee, define, deft, dent, diet, dine, edit, feed, feet, feint, feinted, fend, fete, feted, fetid, fiend, fine, fined, idee, need, teed, tend, tide, tied, tine

8

15

4 3 1 4 9

14

A N L Y J H Z D F MW S E

5 6 8 1

OQB C K G I U T R V P X

3

P X

WORDFIT 3 LETTERS AGE AGO ALE ANT APE AVO COL DAB EEL EKE END EYE GAG GEE GEL HEN HES HOT HUE ILL IRE LEG RIP SAD TIN VCR 4 LETTERS ALLY ARID BENT EASY EAVE GABS GEAR GLUE HERE HINT LEEK OGRE OILY OPAL RIOT

No. 072

SHOO TEAK VARY 5 LETTERS ADOBE ADORE ALBUM ALONE APPAL ATONE AUDIT BERRY BLADE CADET CLEAR DOSES DRIPS ENDOW ENROL ERECT EVENT

GASPS HEDGE IDLER IDOLS INTER ISLAM ISLES LLAMA MACES NESTS NUDGE PARKA RANCH RESET RIPEN ROBIN SLYER SMILE SPREE SWEPT TACOS TAMER

TEARS TELLS TRIAL TWIGS WEDGE 6 LETTERS LAYMAN STREET 7 LETTERS ARTICLE ATTRACT COASTED

LESSENS OPTIMUM RECEDED 8 LETTERS EMULATES NEEDIEST SCHEDULE TRAVERSE 10 LETTERS CLASSROOMS CRITICISMS

18-03-22

DUNLOP AUTO SERVICE CENTRE 161 High Street Melton

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Tuesday, 15 March, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17


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ADVERTISE


SPORTS QUIZ 13. Which co-captain of AFL team Carlton has stepped down in his leadership role in order to focus more on his health concerns?

4. Scottish Premiership clubs Celtic and Rangers are set to play which two A-League Men's teams in a four-team tournament in November of this year?

1. Australian golfer Minjee Lee is currently what number in the women's world golf rankings? 2. After 10 seasons with the Seattle Seahawks, quarterback Russell Wilson was recently traded to which NFL team?

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5. Carlton forward Darcy Vescio recently became the first AFLW player to kick how many career goals?

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Shane Warne

15. Amid a payment dispute with his Pakistan Super League franchise, Australian cricketer James Faulkner threw what item at a hotel chandelier?

6. Which player won the Three-Point Contest held during the 2022 NBA All-Star Weekend? 7. Louise Burrows last played rugby union for which Super W club? 8. St George Illawarra's Madison Bartlett was suspended for one match by the NRLW judiciary after pleading guilty to a charge of what?

16. The English Premier League season's current leading goalscorer, Mohamed Salah, plays for which club?

21. How many frontline spinners did Australia include in the XI in their recent first Test against Pakistan?

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Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

OPERATORS AND LABOURER 1 x Excavator Operator 1 x Loader Operator and 1 x Labourer required. Duties include greasing, maintenance and adhoc. Contact Norm after 5pm for further details:

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MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU The MG ZS EV makes its point against the opposition on price. (Pictures: Supplied)

Tackling the Tyranny of Distance By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring In his 1967 book, The Tyranny of Distance: How Distance Shaped Australia’s History, Geoffrey Blainey shone a light on this country’s geographical remoteness from the centre of the British Empire. The world’s largest island continent since has had its own problems with isolation of communities, which lately has come into sharp focus through the introduction of electric vehicles. It’s a long way from the ubiquitous ‘fill ‘er up’ fuel station to the plug-in bowser of the widely spread charge point, but things are rapidly changing, with car battery efficiency charging ahead and charge points multiplying on mass. For example, it is now possible to drive from the Gold Coast to Cairns on electric power, thanks to Queensland’s Electric Super Highway, with 18 charging points along the way. Research has shown the main reason for not buying a clean energy vehicle are their high prices. While the usual suspects concentrate on producing high-priced premium product, the Chinese (who else?) are beavering away in the bargain basement. MG, for example, owned by the Chinese automobile maker SAIC Motor, has produced a fully electric car in its economy ZS compact SUV range and a plug-in petrol / electric hybrid in its HS medium SUV list. With a nod to a fully renewable electric automotive future, on test was an MG ZS EV SUV, which at $44,990, plus on-road costs, is one of the most financially accessible examples of the new breed of private transport. Based on the Essence specification (top petrol spec), it is also one of the genre’s best sellers. Styling The MG ZS EV stacks up with most of the light SUV segment in looks. The charging flap in the diamond grille is insignificant enough to not take anything away from the well-designed front end. The rest of the vehicle is straight out of the 20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 March, 2022

SUV playbook. However, halogen headlamps are a letdown in this higher tech package. Interior The synthetic leather upholstery is no great shakes. The seats are comfortable for shorter trips but lack support on extended journeys. The seating position is high giving, as with many SUVs, a commanding view of the road. With best-in-class rear headroom, flat rear floor and wide body, the MG ZS EV has plenty of interior space and features 60 / 40 split-folding rear seats and a maximum cargo space of 1166 litres with seat backs folded (not quite flat). The gearshift, a large knob on the centre console incorporates an electronic park brake, which on pressing glows red when engaged. Cool! On the downside, drive and reverse gears engage in their own time, not yours, which can be a problem in crowded traffic manoeuvres. Patience pays. The Panoramic Stargazer Sunroof, covering 90 per cent of the roof, is one of the largest in the segment and lets in plenty of light, but unfortunately, heat as well through its thin material blind. Infotainment The MG ZS EV includes as standard an 8-inch colour touchscreen, integrated Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, six-speaker surround sound audio and satellite navigation. This modern technology contrasts with quaint links to the past such as analogue instruments and climate controls that are limited to a blue / red arc display rather than actual temperatures. Engines / Transmissions The permanent magnet motor is connected to a lithium-ion battery delivering maximum power of 105 kW and top torque of 353 Nm to the front wheels via a reduction gear. Safety Occupant safety is in the hands of MG Pilot, a full suite of driver technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, front collision

warning, emergency braking, speed assist and lane departure warning, plus others. Battery safety and availability are critical considerations to MG Motor and they are only one of three carmakers in the world to own their own battery production facility. This means that the 44.5 kW battery is built to the highest quality and safety standards. Independently certified, it is shielded by high-strength steel enabling it to withstand fire, submersion, impact, dust, pressure and salt spray. Driving With a 44.5 kW battery, the MG ZS EV has a range of 263 km on the WLTP combined cycle. In stop / start city driving, thanks to regenerative braking, that expands to more than 370 km. As far as charging is concerned, the car

comes with a standard CCS2 socket behind a flap in the front grille, designed to take everything from a household power source to the quickest 350 kW DC charger. Plugged into a wall socket at home, the vehicle can be fully charged overnight, while on a fast charger it takes 45 minutes to reach 80 per cent. The MG ZS EV did introduce me to a real dose of ‘range anxiety’, the feeling that juice, therefore power, is about to run out. On a motorway run home, when the vehicle range hit 44 km, a warning flashed up telling me to recharge the battery ASAP. A check of Google showed the nearest charging station was only a kilometre from my M-way turn-off. A thoughtful city council had fitted a public charger outside a district office. A phone call to a charging company had me signed up in no time and lifting the grille flap to find there was access to a slow or fast charging socket. Connecting the fast lead, I sat back to enjoy the view of council office workers going about their business with our rates money. Fortunately, within 30 minutes the MG ZS EV battery was charged to 80 per cent, at a cost of $7.50, and good for almost 200 kilometres. Charging at home meant some juggling of cars in the driveway to tap into a household power point with a lead supplied with the car that could be longer. My house was wired for the ‘olden days’, if not quite for horse and buggy. There is more than one drive mode, customers able to choose between Eco, Normal and Sport to allow the car to adapt to their driving needs. Sport gives a sharper response but can unsettle the car. It’s best left in Normal mode for a more controlled feeling. Eco mode adds little to the driving experience but hits the highest setting for regenerative braking, keeping the battery topped up. The car defaults to Normal every time it is turned on. Summary Experts predict the costs of manufacturing an electric against an internal combustion powered vehicle will reach the crossover point in 2026. MG is well on the way to this electric


STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Pre-season ‘comes together’ for Melton Phoenix It’s full steam ahead for Melton Phoenix after a slow start to the pre-season for the FV state league 5 west season. The Phoenix have played seven games in the last month as they ramp up preparations for the season which kicks off on Saturday. Coach Darren Traynor said things were starting to fall into place after a tough start. “Early in the pre-season it was concerning and it didn’t look good as we didn’t have a lot of players and it was causing some concern. “Come the second week of February everything started to come together. It wasn’t the pre-season we were expecting, but it’s all come together.” Traynor said this year they would take in a younger player group, with the average age of the group between 18 and 22. He said the majority of the players were locals, who were keen to play with their local

club. “It was something I was looking at probably a year ago,” he said of going younger. “It’s evenutated 12 months later than I had planned. “There’s a lot of younger guys and a couple of older guys who have been there through my whole time. “There’s a couple of local guys who have been involved in state league 1, who are locals that have come back and want to enjoy their football.” Traynor said at times it could be hard for the club to recruit players. The Phoenix will take some confidence into the season on the back of the Australia Cup. The side is through to the fourth round of the knock out competition for just the second time. In round three they beat Craigieburn City, in a thrilling penalty shoot out.

“It was a good result,” Traynor said. “It was very pleasing against good opposition.” The club is drawn to face National Premier League side St Albans in round four. Traynor said they were hoping for a good season in the state league competition. “We’ve played seven games in the last four weeks,” he said. “It’s been a heavy workload. “It’s a really tough league with some really good teams. We’re aiming to be competitive each week. “Every club has aims for promotion, but there’s a lot of water to go under the bridge.” It’s an exciting time for the Phoenix with their new club rooms being officially opened to coincide with the opening round of the season. Tara Murray Melton Phoenix during one of its Australia Cup matches. (supplied)

Stallions look to rebuild with young players

Essendon VWFL captain Louis Rowe. (Essendon FC)

Wheelchair football joy By Tara Murray Louis Rowe thought his football days were over after an accident left him a paraplegic at the age of 22. Not into wheelchair tennis or basketball, Rowe just stopped playing sports. That was until an Inastrgram post got his attention. “I had played footy as a kid and up until the age of 22,” he said. “I only ever just played footy. In 2017 I saw a few photos on instagram of people playing wheelchair footy and got in touch with AFL Victoria. “They got me in touch with the league.” The posts would change Rowe’s life in more than one way. He would take up the sport and later become the captain of the Essendon Bombers in the Victorian Wheelchair Football League. Rowe said one of the biggest things for him was being able to get back out and play sport with your mates. “It was amazing,” he said. “As soon as I got out there, the adrenaline was pumping and playing sports again.

“It was a great feeling to get back out there and it inspires me in other parts of my life.” Wheelchair football has a lot of the same rules as normal football, but just adjusted to make it work. The game is played on a basketball court with five players on at a time. Each player has different zones they’re allowed into. There is no kicking, with handballing classified as what a kick would be in normal football, with marks being paid after a handball. An underarm throw is allowed and treated like a handball in the normal game. There is also tackling, which is touching the opponent with prior opportunity paid. Scoring is the same as in normal football, with goals and points at each end of the court. The Bombers have made the grand final the last two seasons, but just fallen short. Rowe said he hopes that it will be third time lucky this year. He said it was an honour to play and captain the Bombers. This competition started in 2019, with five clubs. “I live in the west,” he said. “I came into the

sport before the league came about. “A few guys have been with us for five years now and are big Essendon fans. “We train every Thursday night. The VFLW [Victorian Football League Women’s] train at the same time, as does the VFL. “We get the odd AFL player getting round and few cafes and club people there. You go past the premierships cups on the well and are really immersed in the club.” The competition is expanding, with each club to play in a development match as well each round. There is also interest from other clubs to join. Essendon is hosting a come and try day on March 16 at the Hangar from 6pm. Rowe encourages anyone interested to come and try out the sport. “There’s a lot of people who are similar to me that haven’t play sport since their injury or ever. “You become more confident. Chairs will be provided on the night. It doesn’t matter your, age gender or skill level, we can make it work for you.” Details: https://bit.ly/3tMV0Te

Springs Hills will focus on youth this season in the FV state league 4 west. After a tough couple season, the Stallions are looking to start building and cementing their spot in that division. The Stallions were sitting bottom without a win when the season came to an early end due to the pandemic. Stallions president Tom Markovski they were looking forward to this season. “The men’s team will be a lot better. We have a lot of young local players who are coming across. “We have an experienced coach who has coached in the NPL [National Premier League] and is a teacher, which is even better.” New coach John McAloon comes to the club having been a coach at Melbourne Knights, Hume City and Preston Lions. McAloon is keen to work with the young players and help them progress. Markovski said they were keen to make the team a place that local players can go to when they’re ready to reach that level. “At this level you get older players who want a bit of money to play in this division,” he said. “We’ve said we’re not interested in that. “We’ve started to look local. We want junior players playing senior football. “Players who have been at the club for five years are now staying at the club. “The last two years we have been ordinary, but we’ve right coaches and the right coaching structure in place across all our grades.” Markovski said the pandemic had also had an impact on the women’s program, which has been their strength. Markovski, who is the coach of the club’s state league 1 women’s side, said they were continuing to look to strengthen that side. “The last two years have put us back,” he said. “NPL clubs have been trying to recruit our players. We’ve got girls in our teams who started in under-10s. “We have a team in state league 1 with seniors and reserves. “Our state league 2 side were 15 points clear on top. They would have been promoted into state league 1 if the season had continued. “We are hoping to have a third senior sides in the future.” Tara Murray Tuesday, 15 March, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 21


SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

The Burras step it up after a positive pre-season Diggers Rest has learnt its lesson from last season in the Riddell District Football League. After some of their biggest losses in about 10 years, the Burras have been stung into action in the lead up to 2022. Despite having some poor performances, the Burras were sitting third when the season was cancelled due to the pandemic. Burras’ coach Jamie Lobb said that they’ve had a really good pre-season. “We’re a lot more advanced than last year,” he said. “We’ve learned our lessons from last year when we had a few horror performances. “The players have prepared themselves better, there was an attitude of being a bit complacent. “That they will roll back in after a year off without putting in the work. The attitude of the group has changed.” Lobb set some fresh faces at the club has reinvigorated the group. Marcus Calvaresi, Mitchell Day, Jake Hiam,

Mithcell Jenson and Lachlan Ronaldson have all joined the club from the Essendon District Football League. Lobb said they had all fitted in really well. “The new guys haven’t missed a session,” he said. “They’ve played a lot of footy together and know how each other plays. “They’ve been some of the best trainers in the off-season and are setting the example.” Deven Costigan returns to the from Western Australia, while Josh Wallace returns from injury in a boost for the Burras. Lobb said some of the younger players had taken a step up in pre-season and would be again pushing for senior spots. “It’s been another good pre-season for Thomas Schwarzenberg and Benny McMahon,” he said. “Justin Tenaglia is leading the way with the running, 19-year-old taking it on his shoulders.” Lobb said the club was setting high

expectations for itself for the coming season. “We are not out there just to have a run around,” he said. “We didn’t see the full advantage of having a top five last year. We’re aiming for that top spot and a week off in finals, as all the top sides would be doing.” The Burras will have to wait an extra week to start their season, with a bye in round one which is on April 2. They will then kick off their season in round two against Melton Centrals, before the Easter break the following week. Lobb said they were still working out what they would do that first week of the season in terms of training. Tara Murray Mitchell Jensen has signed with Diggers Rest. (Shawn Smits) 271750_01

Cobras add experience

22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 March, 2022

VTCA The Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior finals were due to get under way across the weekend. The finals, which were after deadline, were all knockout in the top six divisions, with grand final spots on the lines. Among the local teams set to be in action, were Sydenham-Hillside, Caroline Springs and Melton South Royals. For results from across the grades, head to www. starweekly.com.au.

By Tara Murray Bacchus Marsh has added some key experienced players ahead of the Ballarat Football League season. After a solid 2021 season the Cobras have looked to boost their squad with some experience. Cobras coach Tom German said last season was a hard one with teams not able to get a good run at it, “We met at the end of last season,” he said. “There’s areas we wanted to improve in and targeted a few guys. “We were disappointed where we were, as we felt like we had a fairly good year. “We were equal fourth on points, but were sitting seventh [and missing finals] with the nature of the league being so even. “Everyone was hurt by the COVID interruption and not getting a clear run at it.” The Cobras have added seven or eight players to their squad. Jason Robinson and Jack Williams, who are both former VFL-listed players, will add to the Cobras back line. Michael Culliver, who was playing in the Victorian Amateur Football League, joins the club, while Max Eastmure comes across from Torquay and Ryan Chandler has come across from Hillside. Other recruits include Daniel Foley, Sam Crea and Rex Hickman. German said the new guys had really brought into what they’re doing. “We’ve had some really good pick ups this season,” he said. “Some really experienced guys have come on board. “We had a pre-season camp at the Surf Coast and it was a really good weekend. The new guys have continued to buy into what we’re doing. The leaders have been really good at getting that buy in.” While the Cobras have signed a number of experienced players, German said at the other end, there was some real talent coming through the club. “There’s a good batch coming up from the under-17s,” he said. “Some of them are at the Rebels [Greater Western Victoria Rebels] and the Jets [Western Jets] and they have done a pre-season with us. “They are a really exciting batch.” Some of those younger guys were given an opportunity in the club’s first practice match against East Keilor. German said while they took in a much younger side than East Keilor, it was relatively even throughout the match. German said they were hoping to get some continuity this season and build on his first season getting to coach the group in matches having been appointed before the 2020 season.

Sports shorts

GDCA The Gisborne and District Cricket Association finals are under way. Finals in all the senior competitions, except the women’s division which have already finished, were scheduled to start on the weekend after deadline. In the McIntyre Cup, Sunbury United was to host Bacchus Marsh, Gisborne was to play Diggers Rest Bulla in a knock out final, while Romsey and Wallan were to play in the other knock out final. For the results from the top three grades, head to www.starweekly.com. au

EDFL The Essendon District Football League women’s competitions will start their seasons on April 2. The league has released a provisional fixture for all three women’s divisions. Hillside and Burnside Heights will again be in premier division. Hillside will start its season against Westmeadows, while Burnside Heights will start its season against Maribyrnong Park.

Sprintcar Melton’s Jordyn Charge was looking to add another Sprintcar state title to his keeping on Saturday night. Charge, who won the event in 2017, was one of seven past title winners compete in the 2022 360 cubic inch powered Sprintcars Victorian Championship at Simpson. It was the fourth time Simpson Speedway has held the event, with 44 drivers taking to the track.

Jake Owen will captain Bacchus Marsh again. (Damjan Janevski) 245808

“It has been hard the last couple of years to find that continuity,” he said. “Being on the border bubble between metro and regional really affected that. “We really want to build on last year and

hopefully get a good run at it. “It’s such an even competition you don’t know what will happen.” The Cobras will kick off their season on on April 9 against Ballarat at Maddingley Park.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly


Darley hoping for more consistency Darley is hoping to be more competitive in the Ballarat Netball League this season. Taking to the court with a brand new side for the first time last year, the Devils were hampered by player points restricting who could take to the court. With the same core group returning, Devils coach Di McCormack said that things would likely be slightly easier. “We have a settled team with not many changes from last year,” she said. “Not having to worry about points as much, it gives a chance to breathe a bit. Last year we had to rest two or three players to get the team on the court. “The players weren’t consistently on the court and it didn’t allow us to gel very well. There’s some very good units in this competition.” Many of the Darley players have played together before at Rupertswood, but with COVID ruining the 2020 season it was about getting those connections. The likes of Prue Stanley, Ailish McCormack, Shannon Blackman, Matilda Elliot, Tarni Lopes and Grace Markovic are all returning this year. The goaling combination of Keely Boudrie and Monique Nagle will be better after a year together.

Tarni Lopes is back for Darley this year. (Shawn Smits) 271982_01

McCormack said Nagle had put in a lot of work throughout the pre-season. The Devils defence has suffered a couple of losses with Clare Johnson not returning and Niamh Vahland to miss the season through injury.

In the lower grades, McCormack said there were some really good young players who would get opportunities. The B-grade, C-grade and under-19s teams were all set to play finals last year before the season was cancelled due to the pandemic. McCormack said the under-19 had remained the same, with most of those girls also going to play B-grade as well. Renee Hulls, who has played with Melton and the Sunbury Lions, will coach a couple of the lower grades. McCormack said they were still looking for players for the lower grades. Overall, McCormack said while they know it’s going to take three or four years for what they’re planning to be in place, they’re aiming for finals this year. “We’re not looking at recruiting,” she said. “To get all the girls working together. “The team that might be there in two years time is the young kids that are coming through and developing. “The aim is to play finals and win more games than we lose and improve on last year.” Tara Murray

Rams on the up and up By Tara Murray The Western Rams believe they are on the right track to break through for their first win in the Riddell District Football League since 2018. The Rams have done a lot of hard work off and on the field in the last few years to try and get things back on track. Rams coach Marty Weaver said the club was heading in the right direction. The Rams finished bottom under Weaver, who was was coaching the side for the first time, after the 2020 season was called off. “One of my aims when I came in was to make the club a place people wanted to come and play and not feel like they are pressured to. “Past players have identified that and are starting to come back. We were able to set out what we achieved, now It’s about getting success on the board with a couple of wins and hopefully that happens this year.” Weaver said he wanted to be ruthless with his recruiting, but COVID had made things harder than he would have liked. The club, like many others, has found many players have decided to give up playing or sticking with their existing clubs. Despite that, Weaver and his team have managed to bring in 10 new recruits who will make a difference. He said this would not only help the senior team, but provide much needed depth in the reserves which has been lacking. “We have recruited well,” he said. “We’ve picked up 10 recruits that will fit into our side and make us stronger. “Ricky and Harley Cameron have both come back and will play in the midfield. “Dean Chadband will be a full time ruckman. “Matthew Hayes is a premiership player at Glen Orden, while we’ve got a full forward in Josh Jamieson. Matthew Voigt is another former Ram returning to Ian Cowie Reserve. Weaver said the arrival of Chadband and Jamieson would add some more height and experience to the side. He said Chadband would be one of the ruckman to beat in the competition. “We had some tall players that weren’t experienced enough to play ruck or forward.” Coming off a season where the losing margin was just under 100 points, Weaver knows that they still have a long way to go.

Tarni Lopes is back for Darley this year.

(Shawn Smits) 272030_01

The Rams last win came on May 5, 2018. He said the scoreboard last year didn’t really show the growth and development of the side. “We reduced our average losing margin from 230-odd points to 98 points. If we drop that by another 120 points, that should tell us we will win a game this year,” he said. “We’re working

hard on the style of footy we want to play. “We had no issues winning the ball, but we struggled to convert once we got forward. “Some of our defenders will be rolling forward and we will be a lot stronger.” “The club can only go forward from here.” The Rams will start their season on April 2 against Melton Centrals.

Making footy affordable A new campaign has been launched to help keep young children playing football in Melbourne’s west. The Kicking In For Kids Campaign was launched by the Western Bulldogs and the Western Region Football League. As part of the campaign, the Bulldogs and its partners, will pay for the league registration fee for all WRFL junior players from under-8s to under-16s. More than 1300 footballs will be provided to WRFL clubs to help the clubs have the equipment needed to best help the kids as part of the campaign. Bulldogs chief executive Ameet Bains said children had been heavily affected by the pandemic. “As everyone is aware the last couple of years has been really difficult and really challenging with COVID,” he said. “Particularly our children, who sadly have been deprived a lot of childhood activities we’ve taken for granted. “Whether it’s going to school or kicking the footy at their local footy club these are things that haven’t been able to be done. “It’s exciting to be here talking about the Kicking In For Kids Campaign. Throughout the campaign for season 2022, the league registration fee will be paid for every child in the WRFL from under-8s all the way through to under-16s. More than 5000 kids will benefit from that, it will lesson one of the barriers of returning to football. “We’re just so grateful to be part of this initiative, playing our part int getting kids back to being healthy and doing things they should be doing at this age.” WRFL chief executive Matthew Duck said it had been an incredibly challenging couple of years for everyone involved. He said 100s of children had stopped playing football in the west the last couple of years. “While the cost to play Australian rules football is very low in comparison to many other sports, we do know the barrier to entry for many. “This investment from the Western Bulldogs and their partners represents a significant financial investment into the local football ecosystem here in the west and is aimed squarely at reducing the costs with the benefit going directly to 5000 families here in the western suburbs.” The Burnham family from West Footscray Football Club are the faces of the campaign. Western Bulldogs stars Lachie Hunter and Isabella Grant were part of the launch. Both played their junior football in the WRFL. Grant said local footy was where you fall in love with the game. “For me, footy is the first place I felt comfortable being myself … Especially young girls growing up, they can feel like they are part of the community and they’re safe to be who they are. “This provides an opportunity to stay in that system.” Hunter added: “I grew up in Williamstown and played under-9s to under-16s. I spent a lot of years there. “The thing I remember is that’s where I met a lot of my best mates now. I still hang out with a lot of kids I played in under-9s, under-10s teams with.” Tara Murray

Tuesday, 15 March, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23


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