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Caleb’s health battle By Olivia Condous Like many other five-year-old children, Caleb Ross loves jumping on the trampoline, karate and playing outside. But the Bacchus Marsh youngster is different from other kids his age, as he’s one of eight people in the world with a rare genetic disorder that causes him constant pain and leaves him with an uncertain future. Caleb’s condition is caused by a disruption in the protein coding gene called Neurod2, a gene that is located in the brain and has been linked with epilepsy and autism. Caleb’s mother Michelle Ross said as the disorder is so rare, genetic experts are unable to provide an official diagnosis or any information on how it will affect her son’s future.

‘‘

We’ve got no idea what each day is going to bring, ... it’s just an absolute nightmare - Michelle Ross

’’

“We’ve got no idea what each day is going to bring, so it’s just an absolute nightmare and because there’s no information out there, it’s so scary,” Ms Ross said. “They just said that he’s going to deteriorate over his life, from what they can tell.” Expert researchers are currently conducting tests on mice with the gene overseas and have been sent Caleb’s genetic results by the Royal Children’s Hospital genetics team to try to learn more about the disorder. Ms Ross first suspected something was not right with her son when he was four months old, as he started behaving strangely. “He used to roll to whatever he could get to and … bang his head on absolutely everything … so obviously we got that looked into straightaway, because I was very concerned.” Caleb was diagnosed with autism at the age of three, but Ms Ross knew there was something more that wasn’t right. “I just knew something more was going on with him.” The family started the genetic testing process more than two years ago and only received confirmation of Caleb’s rare genetic disorder in March this year.

The disorder presents with symptoms that align with autism and ADHD, but with added neurological, behavioural and physical complications. Ms Ross said her son struggles to sleep, can only walk for a couple of minutes at a time without pain and has ‘silent’ epileptic seizures. “He loves to be active but can’t because he struggles with pain, it’s really hard for him and he gets frustrated because of that,” Ms Ross said. Caleb’s family is currently running a GoFundMe campaign to raise much-needed funds for an assistance dog as well as other

equipment he needs. Caleb receives funding from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), but with his growing needs, he’s already exhausted funds and is currently undergoing an extremely lengthy plan review process. The cost of purchasing and fully training an assistance dog is about $70,000. “We’re doing what we need to do now to get him the support he needs,” Ms Ross said. Details: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ calebs-rare-condition-fight

Caleb is one of eight people in the world with a rare genetic disorder. He’s pictured with mum Michelle Ross. (Damjan Janevski) 280208

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CRAIG KELLY MP Federal Member for Hughes Leader United Australia Party 6th April 2022 My fellow Australians Liberal and Labor have given Australia one Trillion Dollars of debt ($1,000,000,000,000) (a million million) At the Government’s proposed rate of repayment, it will take Australians 250 years to repay the debt. A Trillion Dollars of debt will increase home loan rates to 4% in 2 years and to over 6% in 3 years. At 4%, over 60% of Australians will default on their mortgages and will lose their homes, and at 6% or more over 80% of Australians will lose their homes. The real estate market will then collapse and foreign buyers will flood our real estate market as they will have the money to buy up our properties. We have to stop Australians from losing their homes! A maximum of 3% interest on Home Loans The United Australia Party will introduce a maximum interest rate for all home loans of 3% per annum for the next 5 years to save Australian homeownership. My treasurer, Clive Palmer, has a wealth of business experience and the ability to save Australia. The Liberal and Labor finance teams just don’t know what to do and they are keeping you in the dark. Repayment of National Debt Both Liberal and Labor fail to address the Trillion Dollars of National Debt, but not the United Australia Party. We plan to address it head-on and save your family from its impact. Australia supplies over 80% of all Iron Ore to the Asian manufacturing market, where tens of trillions of dollars are invested in manufacturing in China, Japan, Korea and the rest of Asia. Asia achieves its position in world trade by using Australian Iron Ore. Asian economies and industry have no alternative. In the 1960s, Australia had an export license on the export of Iron Ore. The United Australia Party will introduce a 15% export license on the export of all Australian Iron Ore. The export license receipts will be isolated for the sole purpose of repaying our National Debt which will relieve every Australian from that burden and set up our future. So Australia can be all it can be without the financial destruction the Labor and Liberal parties have imposed on our country. Bring Australian Super Home Australia has over One Trillion Dollars of Super invested overseas. Just like when John Curtin in World War 2 brought the troops back to save Australia, the United Australia Party will bring back a Trillion Dollars of Australian Super back to Australia, to save Australia. To save your home and Australia, I need you to vote 1, for your United Australia Party candidate for your electorate, in the House of Representatives and for the United Australia Party Senate team. We can save Australia and your home. God bless Australia.

Craig Kelly Craig Kelly Leader United Australia Party

UAP13552RMCL

Authorised by: Craig Kelly, Parliament House, Parliament Drive, Canberra ACT 2600 12548341-HC19-22

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WHAT DOES THE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER & LIBERAL SENATOR THINK OF SCOMO? “He is a hypocrite and a liar from my observations and that is over a long time.” “I have never trusted him, and I dislike how earnestly he rearranges the truth to a lie.” THE CANBERRA TIMES

Barnaby Joyce, Deputy Prime Minister

“It is his way or the highway. (He’s) an autocrat, a bully who has no moral compass,” she said. “He has used his so-called faith as a marketing advantage.” NEWS.COM

“There is a putrid stench of corruption emanating from the New South Wales division of the liberal party” THE CANBERRA TIMES

Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, Liberal Senator

THAT’S WHY CRAIG KELLY LEFT At the last election, Craig Kelly stood for the Liberal Party. He stood for small government, low debt and freedom of speech. And again, at this election, Craig Kelly is standing for small government, low debt and freedom of speech. The difference is - It’s not Craig Kelly that left the Liberal Party, it’s the Liberal Party that’s disenfranchised local Liberals and abandoned Liberal principals. Caring for and supporting what you believe in is one of the rarest things in politics. Craig Kelly needs your support to stop the destruction of liberal beliefs.

SCOMO PUSHED HIS PICK ON LOCAL LIBERALS 12548342-JW19-22

TELL THEM THEY’RE DREAMING.

Authorised by: Craig Kelly, United Australia Party, 153 Gooding Drive, Merrimac 4226

UAP13552RMCR Tuesday, 17 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 3

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Rates and waste fees set to rise By Olivia Condous Moorabool residents will potentially pay a 1.75 per cent rate increase as the council plans to spend $61 million on capital works in the 2022-23 budget. The 1.75 per cent increase is in line with the state government’s policy and ratepayers will also have to pay more for waste management and collection fees. The funding in the council budget includes $34 million to go towards new projects for

the shire and $27 million for the renewal and upgrading of existing assets. Highlights of the proposed budget include $2.8 million for the Bacchus Marsh Indoor Recreation Facility, $0.7 million for the Ballan Library and Community Hub, $1.1 million for the Bald Hill Redevelopment and $6 million for the second stage of the Bacchus Marsh Racecourse and Recreation Reserve. The budget identifies 15 projects across the shire that are set to receive funding. Council chief executive Derek Madden

said the funds were allocated to many of the council’s top priority advocacy projects. “We have secured funds for some of these projects from other levels of government, but still require more contribution from the Federal and State governments to make these projects a reality,” Mr Madden said. Councillor Paul Tatchell said he believed the new budget was the largest he’d witnessed in his 10 years of council, but was concerned that increased fees would be harmful, with the cost of living already rising.

“Council is supposed to represent people, our role is to look after our communities, “When the cost of living increases rural people are at a disadvantage because when the price of fuel goes up, we’re hit harder because we have to travel further,” Cr Tatchell said. The council will accept submissions from the community on the proposed budget until June 9. Details: https://moorabool.engagementhub. com.au/2022-23-annual-budget

Labor candidate for Hawke Sam Rae and Melton Primary School principal Vanessa Harrison. (Supplied)

Labor pledges school funds

One of the events for Melton Neighbourhood House Week was a Macrame craft workshop. Workshop teacher Aml Moustafa with Carmel Thorneycroft show off their work. (Damjan Janevski) 280394_01

A celebration of neighbourhood The City of Melton celebrated Neighbourhood House Week last week, inviting residents to come together to enjoy a variety of activities and workshops. Neighbourhood House Week runs annually between May 9-15 and this year was themed around Building Resilience by Bringing People Together. The council offered workshops on soy candle making, native floral canvas art, winter gardening, chair yoga, writing non-fiction, macrame, line dancing and many more.

There was also a Biggest Morning Tea event in Taylors Hill to raise funds for the Cancer Council on Friday. Mayor Goran Kesic said this year’s theme was about celebrating harmonious and resilient communities like those in Melton. “COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns have left many people feeling vulnerable and isolated,” he said. “Our neighbourhood houses and community centres are working to rebuild those social connections that many people lost

so that we can build stronger and more resilient communities than ever before. “Neighbourhood houses and community centres are the hearts of our communities and are spaces where everyone can be involved and connect. “There’s loads of fun, helpful and creative activities on every day at Neighbourhood Houses, so there’s something for everyone, of every age, and every ability.”

The Labor party has pledged funding for a new outdoor learning space at Melton Primary School, if the party is elected at the upcoming election. Labor candidate for Hawke, Sam Rae, announced $39,000 in funding for the installation of a shade sail and four new picnic tables to provide all year levels at the school with an outdoor classroom. The outdoor learning space is designed to provide a COVID-safe alternative to indoor learning and will be integrated into the natural environment of the school grounds. The funding is part of the Labor government’s $240 million Schools Upgrade Fund, providing schools across the country with the opportunity to engage in outdoor learning. Mr Rae said the investment would help to give the school the resources it needs to make sure each student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. “The teachers, staff and school community at Melton Primary School support and empowers their students and I’m glad an Albanese Labor government is supporting their work with much needed funding.”

Olivia Condous

JOHN

FLETCHER LIBERAL FOR GORTON

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Canine school is barking mad By Olivia Condous A longstanding Melton dog school has been forced to move from its home of 18 years by the Melton council. Brigitte Anders has run her dog training small business, Brigitte’s Dog School, at Willows Historical Park since 2004 but was told last year via an email from council that she was no longer permitted to use the grounds as a commercial business. “After 18 years, all because I’m commercial, but really I’m a hobby business and I only run on a Saturday morning … I’ve never had a complaint,” Ms Anders said. Council offered the alternative location of Cambrian Way Reserve for the dog school, but after trying to use the grounds Ms Anders found it wasn’t safe for dogs. “There’s rubbish dumped there all the time … one of my instructors found a needle there,” she said. “If you actually go on the ground, it’s never been top-soiled, it’s never been grassed … It was a paddock that they’ve mown and it’s full of burrs.” Ms Anders said she had alre ady seen a drop in class attendance due to the poor quality of the new location. “We’re getting dogs going home and owners complaining to us because they’ve spent 15 minutes trying to get the burrs out of the dog’s coat,” “It’s not appropriate for a professional dog school.” Ms Anders also runs Melton Assistance Dogs through her dog school, a subsidised program to help train dogs for community members with mental illnesses or disabilities. As another not-for-profit dog training group is still permitted to run classes at Willows Historical Park, Ms Anders said

Brigitte Anders at Cambrian Way Reserve. (Joe Mastroianni)

she won’t be moving the training of her community-focussed program. “If they want to move me they’re going to have a fight on their hands, because if they move me, they move the under group as well.” Ms Anders said she was aware that the council changed the policy to prohibit commercial practices that may damage the grounds, such as weekend markets, but argued assessment should be made on a case by case basis. “There’s a need for this type of thing in

Melton, there’s a lot of dogs that need training, I started the whole thing because at the time there were a lot of dogs actually attacking kids,” she said. “I do it because it’s a passion of mine, I want to see dogs live a happy and healthy life, by people training their dogs so they’re happy and then the dog’s happy.” Council acting manager of engagement and advocacy Elissa Haley said council decided last year that it would not endorse future

use of the public open space at the Willows Historical Park for any commercial purposes. “It’s a high profile public open space and the council wants to ensure the Willows is available for everybody to use, and not limited by commercial activities,” she said. “Council officers have been working to help Brigitte’s Dog School transition to its new site at Cambrian Way Reserve in Melton, including undertaking works at the site to reduce burrs and improve the ground surface.”

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Parents providing career support The City of Melton is hosting a series of workshops designed to educate parents and carers on how to support teenagers and young people when making career decisions. The sessions are designed for parents of students with disability, neurodiversity and mental health challenges. Career and education professions will guide participants through three weekly sessions starting on May 18. For more information, visit the City of Melton website.

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Learning for Earning Festival This virtual festival will provide online workshops and webinars to showcase education and employment opportunities in the western suburbs. Participants can gain knowledge in starting or changing careers, learn about dominant and emerging industries and discover opportunities for the future. The festival will run over May 25 and 26, visit the City of Melton website for more details and information on how to book in.

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Brimbank mayor Jasmine Nguyen and The Youth Junction cheif executive Jo Malcolm-Black at Visy Cares Hub’s new chill zone. (Damjan Janevski)

Chill out in the zone

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The Youth Junction, based at the Visy Carers Hub, hosted four events in Sunshine to launch its new chill zone. A brightly coloured glow in the dark pavement, cheerful green benches and planter boxes feature in the chill zone, which aims to provide a comfortable and inviting area for young people and staff connected to the Visy Cares Hub. The hub provides a range of youth-focused services including Headspace, Orygen, YSAS, WEstJustice, Youth Now, Charis Mentoring, Brimbank Learning Futures, the Youth Junction and AAFRO Ltd. The events, funded by the Justice and Community Safety Department to launch the

chill zone, included an Open Mic Arvo, Hip Hop Arvo, Chalk About It and a Hoop Comp. Youth Junction chief executive Jo Malcolm-Black said it was an important project for making young people feel comfortable and safe. “We finally feel like Sunshine is back, so we are very appreciative of the commitment of Brimbank council in recognising how important it is to have an area where young people can gather,“ Ms Malcolm-Black said. “The Friday evening events have been successfully drawing in young people and the general public to celebrate and bring awareness to the new zone.”

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Orange Door opening in Melton By Olivia Condous The Orange Door Network will provide further services for the western suburbs through a new facility in Melton. The Orange Door is a free service for adults, children and young people who are affected by family violence, providing access to wellbeing services they may need. Orange Door also provides services for families needing support with the wellbeing and development of their children. The Victorian government announced

last week that the new site would add to the Brimbank Melton Orange Door Network, in addition to the Sunshine site currently under construction. The Brimbank Melton facilities will partner with local western service providers such as GenWest, Western Health, Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Services, Victorian Aboriginal Community Services Association and MacKillop Family Services with support from the Victorian government. The Melton and Sunshine facilities will be accessible by phone, email and face-to-face, as

well as through outreach services across the region. The facilities will offer multi-disciplinary support through specialist family violence professionals as well as men’s, Aboriginal and child and family services, providing crisis assistance, risk assessments, safety planning and wellbeing support. Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Gabrielle Williams said the government was ensuring that accessing advice and support was easy as possible for all Victorians.

“When experiencing family violence, reaching out for help can be the hardest thing a person will do,” Ms Williams said. “The Orange Door in Brimbank Melton will offer a streamlined way for women, children, young people and families to get the help they need in a secure and compassionate environment.” The Orange Door in Brimbank Melton is on track to commence services later this year. Details: orangedoor.vic.gov.au.

Dig deep for the Salvos On the front of the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Appeal website, a weary mother clutches her baby close, her face a reminder of the fear and fatigue so many women experience every day. This year, the annual appeal is aimed at helping women experiencing homelessness because of family and domestic violence. Sunbury Salvation Army Sunbury Corps’ senior minister Kimberley Featherston said any funds raised locally would be donated back into the community – directly helping the people they walk past every day. “One of the things that I always say is that it’s the smallest amounts that add up, no matter what you can give, that’s a real gift,” Ms Featherston said. “Whether it’s the silver coins, it doesn’t even have to be gold coins, because if everyone’s doing that it all adds up at the end to help out in the bigger picture.” In Sunbury, the money raised will go towards buying a washing machine to be

available to people who need it, to be located at St Mary’s church. Through their services or programs, the Salvation Army helps someone every 17 seconds – the organisation says this only happens because of the public’s support of the Red Shield Appeal. Ms Featherston said while the practical side of the Red Shield Appeal happens over a short time, there was continuing opportunities to volunteer locally. “That might be in our emergency relief centre, helping to pack the hampers and providing them to the community,” Ms Featherston said. To donate, visit: https://bit.ly/3yKUtWj.

Sunbury Salvation Army Corps senior minister Kimberley Featherston says a donation to the Red Shield Appeal is “a real gift”. (Supplied)

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Search for answers to diabetes The City of Melton has a higher number of residents affected by diabetes than the national average, according to data from the National Diabetes Services Scheme. Australia has 5.4 per cent of the population as registrants in the scheme, whereas 6.5 per cent of Melton’s population are registered. Melton residents affected by diabetes are being encouraged to come forward to assist researchers from the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute in uncovering more about the disease. Fraser Rise resident Mary Rizzo, a

participant in the study, has type 2 diabetes along with many of her family members. “Diabetes is really bad and it runs in families, so if I can help, I will … we need to find answers,” Ms Rizzo said. “I make sure my daughter has her children’s sugars tested frequently because their father also has diabetes.” Ms Rizzo’s sister, Mercieca Raimondo, also has type 2 diabetes. “I hate this disease with a vengeance, it’s a curse,” Ms Raimondo said.

“There have been heart attacks and strokes in our family because of it, it really is a nightmare and something I’d like to help change.” The Baker Heart and Diabetes institute is conducting the ‘PREDICT’ research study at Sunshine Hospital in order to learn how to identify who might be at risk of diabetes complications. According to the Baker Institute, type 2 diabetes can cause complications such as heart attacks, strokes, damage to eyesight, nerve damage, reduced kidney function and circulation issues leading to amputation.

Residents from the local government areas of Melton, Brimbank, Hume, Maribyrnong and Moonee Valley with type 2 diabetes are eligible to participate and will benefit by receiving a free heart scan, eye examination and scan and memory and physical function tests. Baker Institute deputy director Professor Jonathan Shaw said: “To prevent these complications of diabetes, we need to know who is most likely to get them, so that down the track, we’ll be able to provide tailored, personalised treatment for every individual”.

A forest full of healing From fresh air to escaping the stress of modern life, a group of Brimbank walkers found a number of benefits from a recent forest therapy walk. International Nature and Forest Therapy Alliance (INFTA) forest therapy guides Kerryn and Greg Cassidy conducted the two-hour forest therapy walk at Brimbank Park on Saturday, May 7. Mrs Cassidy said the eight attendees enjoyed the event. “The few hours that were spent on the walk went wonderfully and by the end, the participants were relaxed and destressed,” she said. “Anxiety was an issue that was being experienced by someone prior to the walk and upon their own reflection in the final activity, they said that had gone.” Participant Mary said the experience led her on a “beautiful journey” within herself. “I found the forest therapy experience a true mini retreat for the tired body, mind and soul,” she said. “It was fantastic to slow down and

reconnect with nature and observe the tiniest insect to the tallest tree.” The INFTA and Brimbank council are hosting further forest therapy walks on the first Saturday of each month until November, with the next event scheduled on Saturday, June 4 from 11am until 1pm. The 2021-2022 round of the Brimbank Community Recovery Grants supported the program. Forest therapy is a research-based public health practice of guided immersion in forests with the aim of promoting mental and physical health whilst relaxing and enjoying the forest. It is suitable for all ages and people with different physical abilities and strengths. Participants are encouraged to consult their GP or specialist doctor should they suffer from any major medical condition. Details: infta.net/home/public-health/ activities/brimbank Matthew Sims

A number of participants enjoyed a Brimbank Park forest therapy walk on Saturday, May 7. (Supplied)

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Mayor makes his election pitch By Olivia Condous Moorabool mayor Tom Sullivan has called on federal election candidates to pledge funding for priority projects within the region in the lead up to the election. The council is seeking funding for an indoor pool complex, a regional bowls complex, the 1000 steps summit trail project, sewerage for Wallace and Bungaree and female friendly change rooms for Dunnstown Reserve. The total funding required for these projects is $26.4 million, with $15 million of the total required for the indoor pool facility.

‘‘

This is what our community wants and what our community needs, so get behind us - Tom Sullivan

’’

Cr Sullivan said all of the projects were “shovel-ready” and had been identified following close consultation with councillors and the community. “We have received federal funding commitments in the past for some of these

projects, including the pool, but we want all candidates for all parties to come to the table,” Cr Sullivan said. “We are asking all candidates to publicly support our advocacy priorities, particularly the five projects listed above, during their upcoming campaigns. “This is what our community wants and what our community needs, so get behind us.” Labor party candidate for Hawke, Sam Rae, who notionally holds the seat, said he was very supportive of an indoor pool for Bacchus Marsh.

“Living up the road in Ballan, I want my kids to learn to swim right here in our community,” Mr Rae said. “I’ll continue to work with council, the Victorian government and an Albanese Labor government to advocate for our pool. “Over the past weeks, I’ve announced that an Albanese Labor government will invest $10 million to kickstart the Western Freeway upgrade, and $400,000 to upgrade Federation Park in Darley.” The Liberal Party was contacted for comment.

ALP Darley park pledge make the most out of their own community and deliver a better life for families in Darley. “I have heard firsthand of the need for open space improvements in Darley and Bacchus Marsh, and residents here deserve access to world-class facilities,” Mr Rae said. “That’s why an Albanese Labor government will get on with the job of upgrading Federation Park.” Olivia Condous

Labor candidate Sam Rae with Moorabool deputy mayor Tonia Dudzik and Crs Moira Berry and Ally Munari. (Supplied)

FSA/DETS932

The Labor Party has partnered with Moorabool council to pledge funding for upgrades to Federation Park in Darley. Labor will provide $400,000 to fund improvements to the park area, if they are elected in the seat of Hawke in the upcoming federal election. The pledged funding includes a $200,000 commitment from Moorabool council to progress the upgrade works. Labor said Federation Park has been selected for the funding as future upgrades will benefit the Darley community by encouraging residents to become more involved in their local community and get active. The funding will go towards traffic, pedestrian, parking and play space improvements, as well as the replacement of the amenities building. Labor party candidate for Hawke, Sam Rae, said the funding pledge aimed to help locals

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WEst Justice expands services By Fatima Halloum WEst Justice has expanded its specialist services to help more people across the state struggling with mortgage stress. The community organisation will shift from working solely with people in the western suburbs of Melbourne to now servicing home owners living all over Victoria. WEst Justice mortgage stress director of operations and strategy Stephanie Tonkin said she expects to see more households fall into financial difficulty. “There are always people in mortgage stress but now with the costs of living on the rise

and the interest rate rise, it’s really front and centre,” Ms Tonkin said. “We’re talking about someone’s roof over their head, we’re talking about leaving a home and potentially facing homelessness.” The Australian Bureau of Statistics defines housing stress as lower-income households that spend more than 30 per cent of their gross income on housing costs. “For many people that’s a reality, increasingly so, you may be comfortable paying that now … that may be manageable,” Ms Tonkin said. “Mortgage stress becomes a problem when there’s a change in circumstance.”

Ms Tonkin said the change could be another baby on the way, a workplace incident, addiction issues or a reduction in work hours. “It’s one of those change in circumstances that can happen to anyone, that can push someone from managing their mortgage repayment into real financial trouble,” she said. “But it’s important to highlight that households do have options to deal with their mortgage stress.” WEst Justice began its Mortgage Stress Victoria program seven years ago. Ms Tonkin said the team comprises specialist lawyers,

financial counselors and social workers, who help with many of the issues that cause mortgage stress. A key priority for the service is reaching people earlier in the cycle of their financial difficulty. “No matter how early or late in the cycle, they can reach out to us. The sooner you seek help the more options that you might have to deal with the mortgage stress issues,” Ms Tonkin said. “They can give us a call and we would give them that initial advice on their rights and options.” Details: 1800 572 292

Gold for young athlete A young Melton athlete claimed two gold medals for Victoria at the Coles Australian Little Athletics Championships, held last weekend. Nelson Banigo, who trained with Bacchus Marsh Little Athletics, was part of the winning Under 13 boys team for the 4x100 metre and medley relay events. The Melton Christian College student also came fourth in the individual 100m race, missing out on a medal by 0.06 seconds. Nelson said it felt “really good” to represent Victoria in the events, as well as his coach and his family. “I’ve never competed at a national competition before and it’s great to medal at my first one,” he said. “My dad was here to watch me and the rest of the family watched on livestream.” Nelson was one of 43 athletes under the

age of 15 chosen to represent the state at the event. Coles Little Athletics Australia president Sherrie Boulter said it was great to have the championship event back after a two-year hiatus due to COVID. “The event has been sorely missed by everyone and to have our best under-13 and under-15 athletes competing for their state once again is extremely important for the Little Athletics pathway and for kids to showcase their talent on a national stage,” Ms Boulter said. Olivia Condous

Nelson Banigo running in the relay race. (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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10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 May, 2022

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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BEHIND THE NEWS

Handyman is John of all trades John Warren is a curious man, dabbling in a number of pastimes over the years. He speaks with Helena Abdou about how his various outlets have helped him overcome a battle with depression.

ohn Warren was only young when he lost his father to suicide. Years later, his brother took his own life after a battle with schizophrenia. Not long after, John’s sister followed. He lost three family members to suicide and was scared he would fall victim to the unrelenting grasp of depression. “Because of the depression that I went through, that sort of made it a bit tougher because I thought oh maybe it’s my time to kick it too.

‘

I’m back on top and full of laughter ... It could have gone the other way for me but I’m glad it didn’t

’

- John Warren “Maybe I was just a little bit stronger and lucky to pull myself out of it.” Born in Albert Park, and raised in Broadmeadows, John is one of five children. He later moved to Jacana, where he met his wife, Carol. The pair have been married for 50-odd years. He has two sons, Paul and Adam, who he says are his whole world. “I love my boys and I’m proud of the men that they are. They’ve done really well for themselves.” Sadly, John didn’t have the same loving relationship with his father. “In those days, men were pretty hard on kids ... I suppose I’ve got bad memories as far as my dad goes,” John says. “I think that happened right up to the age

John Warren has lived quite the life and now puts his time into passion projects. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 276198

of 15 and I looked him in the eyes one day and I go, well, you’re not going to break me anymore, he realised what he was doing. And I thought how stupid is this. I will never do this to my kids in the future, it was a lesson that I learned.” John wasn’t very fond of school and left at the age of 15. “I didn’t have it in me to do school but I was always very good with my hands. On the exact same day I left school, my mum made me get a job at the grocery shop, where I packed shelves for about two years. “And then I knew a minister where I used

to go to a church and he said to me, ‘I can get you an apprenticeship as a wood machinist’, which is a person who deals with operating machines and builds wardrobes, cabinets and that sort of stuff. So I did that for five years as an apprentice.” He went on to work at Hillcrest Secondary College in Broadmeadows as a wood machinist for 17 years before injuring his back. “I had a back injury and I collapsed the three discs in my lower back. That put me out of work for the rest of my life actually,” he says. It was then that John fell into depression, but he didn’t let that stop him.

“I figured I need to try and do something with my life instead of just sitting around doing nothing. So I went back to school for four years and I learned how to do computers and stuff like that.” John describes himself as a curious type of man, having dabbled in a number of different activities over his lifetime. “I went to church for about five or six years, tried a few different churches to see what the difference was. Enjoyed partying and swimming a fair bit. I did a bit of horse riding and I got into obedience work for about five years with my German shepherd and won a few prizes.” “It was all just an outlet. “Carol turned to me and said, ‘what are you going to do next?’ And I said ‘I’m going to buy a Harley’, and so I did.” After his back injury, John sold his bike and turned towards passion projects as a way to keep himself occupied. “I got into playing with old cars and building old cars and I probably got about seven old cars at home.” His latest project that drew the attention of his neighbourhood and strangers was his ‘crazy caravan,’ a fully furnished piece of art he built. “That took me about six months to build and I was hoping to get away with the wife but then she got a bit ill so I’m hoping to sell it.” The father-of-two has a positive outlook on life and encourages everyone around him to do the same. “I’m back on top and full of laughter, enjoying the grandkids that I love. It could have gone the other way for me but I’m glad it didn’t,” he said. “Put a smile on your face and keep pushing through because the next day it becomes better.” Tuesday, 17 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

MY PLACE David Webb is a Melton resident and has been a part of the Melton Cycling Club for nine years. He spoke to Olivia Condous about the Melton community and his love of cycling. What’s your connection to Melton? I have lived in Melton since 1981 and have raised my family here. I am originally from Maryborough and Melton was a good compromise to be able to still visit regularly, as I work in Port Melbourne.

What, if anything, would you change about where you live? As a cyclist, a cycle path to connect from Melton to the city would be both beneficial and also a good safety aspect for others to feel confident in taking up cycling. Also having a hospital in Melton, as promised, would be wonderful for the community. Where is your favourite local place to spend time? Melton Botanic Garden is a lovely area and family friendly. Plus, we try to patronise our local cafes at the end of each ride thus giving us the opportunity to meet new people. Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you... I honestly don’t have anything that might surprise anyone … I’m just a man in his 60’s

(Damjan Janevski) 277435

What do you like about where you live? Have found that the city is easily accessible without being in the suburbs. It’s close to both regional and metro areas and still very much affordable.

enjoying being part of the cycling club and keeping fit. How did you get involved with the Melton Cycling Club? I purchased a new bike and was out riding

around the town nine years ago when two of the members from Melton Cycling Club invited me to join the social group ride. Little did I know that they would take me down Anthony’s Cutting on my first ride. Hopefully I’ve improved since then.

What is your favourite part of being involved in the club? They are an extremely inclusive club and the fitness that comes from it has helped my health. They’re always encouraging, it doesn’t matter what level you’re at.

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

30 years ago

20 years ago

15 years ago

10 years ago

May 13, 1992

May 14, 2002

May 15, 2007

May 15, 2012

Seventeen candidates have nominated for the central riding seat left vacant by former mayor Morita Bowman.

Bacchus Marsh’s premiere festival could go under due to a lack of community help.”

About 600,000 litres of water went down the drain on High Street, Melton, when a water main burst last Wednesday.

Letterboxes in Bacchus Marsh have been hit with a petition calling for Planning Minister Matthew Guy to reverse his controversial decision to reject a roundabout in the town’s Avenue of Honour.

12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 May, 2022

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMENT

STIs are the forgotten epidemic By Christopher Carter, CEO, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network Epidemics are annoying things, not least because they refuse to arrive in an orderly fashion, one at a time. So while Melburnians have been largely focused on battling COVID-19, another epidemic has been playing out in the background. The past couple of years have seen a surge in sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, and our region is one of the hotspots. For a multitude of reasons, GPs and sexual health clinics are seeing patients with a range of STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis. Unlike coronavirus or flu, sexually transmitted infections are not often talked about in public – but it’s important that we get past that reluctance and start having a conversation. Keeping STIs secret and not seeking treatment can lead to chronic and severe health problems – for you, and for others who may not know they are at risk. Many people feel embarrassed to go and see their GP about symptoms that might indicate a sexually transmitted infection – but there is no need to be. Doctors see STIs pretty much every day of the week. STIs can be treated easily, but things can get nasty if you leave it too long. Late-stage STIs can be challenging, especially for women. Some infections can be passed onto babies during pregnancy. This can cause miscarriage, stillbirth or serious abnormalities. Understandably, many people with newly diagnosed conditions feel awkward about the next, very important step in the process: informing sex partners. Well, the good news is that for those who don’t feel up to having that talk, you can do so anonymously. The Melbourne Sexual

Don’t be embarrassed about chatting to your GP about symptoms that might indicate a sexually transmitted infection.

Health Centre (MSHC) has a service called lethemknow.org.au, and Thorne Harbour Health has a similar service on its website, ‘the drama down under’. All GPs know how to treat STIs, there are also some who make it a speciality. It’s worth noting that MSHC collaborates with six ‘partner clinics’. They are Cranbourne West Medical Centre, Kardinia Health, Kings Park Medical Centre Hillside, Mediclinic Clayton,

Tarneit Family Medical & Dental Centre, and Yarram District & Health Service. You can find them all on the internet. STIs are varied and common, and sometimes don’t produce symptoms in the early stages, which is why experts recommend regular checking. However, symptoms that could signal you’ve acquired one include itching, pain or discomfort, rash, redness, stinging or burning,

(iStock)

swelling or inflammation, ulcers, sores, blisters or spots, weight loss, bleeding, cramps, diarrhoea, bodily discharge, discolouration, growths or bumps, fever, flu-like symptoms, nausea, vomiting, and body movement issues. If you experience any of these, it’s a good idea to make an appointment and get it checked out. It might be nothing, of course, but finding out is the only way we’re going to beat this STI epidemic,and stay safe and well.

Critical zoo surgery saves an injured flying fox

Werribee Open Range Zoo’s team of expert veterinarians has performed life-saving surgery to help one of Australia’s most precious wild animals return to the night skies. A Grey-headed flying fox was returned to its Geelong home last month, after becoming entangled and breaking its wing in old fruit tree netting in January. The flying fox underwent two critical life-saving operations and spent time rehabilitating with a wildlife carer during its three-month recovery. Werribee Open Range Zoo associate veterinarian Dr Paul Eden said the animal’s condition was precarious when first found. “Flying foxes are highly dependent on their wings for many purposes,” Dr Eden said. “They can fly an astonishing 6,000km in a year to search for food and pollinate a wide range of plants, supporting ecosystems such as entire eucalypt forests, an important habitat for animals like koalas and possums. They also use their wings to help capture insects, regulate body temperature, and attract other flying-foxes during mating season. So, it was extremely important that we did everything we could to help this animal make a full recovery.” To assist with the recovery process, vets operated to remove some of the damaged wing tissue and administered antibiotics and pain relief. Following the successful procedure, the flying fox was transferred to the wildlife carer

Veterinary nurse Layla Merritt performs surgery on flying fox at Werribee Open Range Zoo.

to prepare it for release back into the wild. Dr Eden said it was extremely rewarding to see the flying fox return to full heath and safely returned to the wild as the species has a critical role in Australia’s ecosystem, supporting both animal and human life. “Our ecosystem would be dramatically different, or cease to exist altogether, without flying foxes. If we don’t have flying foxes, we don’t have forests, if we don’t have forests, we don’t have as much oxygen supply. They are

(Zoos Victoria)

critical to our survival.” Dr Eden said there are some simple actions that people can take to keep flying foxes safe. “We can greatly reduce the risk of entanglements by using nets with a mesh size of five-by-five millimetres or less at full stretch for fruit-trees or vegetable gardens. If you encounter a flying fox that is sick or in distress, for the safety of everyone, don’t attempt to rescue the animal yourself. Instead, contact Wildlife Victoria who will deploy a

trained officer to rescue the animal.” Grey-headed flying foxes are classified as vulnerable in the wild, with their population declining due to a reduction in food availability from the destruction of native habitat and impacts of climate change, particularly extreme heat, drought, and fires. Zoos Victoria members and Werribee Open Range Zoo visitors are reminded that all tickets must be pre-booked online at zoo.org.au. Tuesday, 17 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Uptake of solar panels is strong By Olivia Condous Twelve suburbs in the City of Melton were in the top 10 postcodes with the highest number of solar panel installations in western Victoria, according to data released by electricity distribution company Powercor. According to Powercor, the number of households with rooftop solar panels increased by 16 per cent last year to a total of 175,000 in western Victoria. Melton suburbs such as Melton West, Kurunjang, Harkness, Melton South,

Cobblebank and more were in the top10 postcodes. Melton West resident Alexandra Sankari said installing solar panels had made a “huge difference” to their utilities bills. Ms Sankari said their summer electricity bill would normally amount to $400, but after installing solar panels at the start of this year their bill was only $60. “We had already seen the benefits of having the solar panels because the cost of paying for electricity had significantly reduced,” she said. “Obviously the cost of groceries has gone up

and the cost of petrol so … we were able to put [extra money] into that area.” Ms Sankari admitted she thought the government solar rebate program was a “gimmick” initially, but after seeing some of her neighbours making the switch she realized the benefits were real. “We really are so grateful that we got it done.” Truganina was among the suburbs with the highest number of solar panels in the region as of January this year, with 15,343 installations across the 3029 postcode, making up more than forty per cent of households.

Caroline Springs also ranked high on the list, with 5920 installations across the 3023 postcode. CitiPower and Powercor general manager of electricity networks Mark Clarke said the increased number of installations would see current technologies like rooftop solar and pave the way for electric vehicles, virtual power plants and more into the future. “These solar enablement works allow our customers to export their excess solar, while also supporting Victoria to reduce emissions and increase the use of clean energy generated by customers at home.”

Choirs on the big stage

12544962-AV15-22

Two choirs based in Melbourne’s west will join the upcoming season of Melbourne Theatre Company’s production ‘The Heartbreak Choir’. ‘The Heartbreak Choir’ tells the story of a fractured choir group, which as a result of a particular event, finds itself split in half. Each night, one of the 13 choirs involved will join the cast on stage for the finale, with the Western Health Singers and Glee West being given the honour to perform in front of hundreds of people. Heartbreak Choir’s musical director Vicky Jacobs said choirs are a “web of the community”. “Because being involved in a choir, you don’t have to have any physical ability. You don’t even have to have a heap of musical ability, just a willingness to do some practice,” she said. “You get this great cross section of people, and a choir is a great way for people to meet other people that they wouldn’t necessarily bump into in their lives. They’re great vehicles for drawing our communities together.”

14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 May, 2022

Paul Marshall is in his third season at Glee West. He said being able to perform with the cast of The Heartbreak Choir was both exciting and intimidating. “As far as opportunities go, this is like winning tattslotto,” he said. “Normally we’re singing in front of friends or family or some random community people wandering past with their pram, you know, it’s just a random event, whereas this is hundreds of people in an auditorium there to be entertained. It’s everything, it’s horrifically intimidating and enormously exciting.” The Western Health Singers will join the cast of The Heartbreak Choir on May 19, while Glee West will take the stage on May 23, 26, 27 and 28. Tickets can be purchased via https://www. mtc.com.au/plays-and-tickets/whats-on/ season-2022/the-heartbreak-choir/. Molly Magennis

Glee West rehearse on Tuesday nights at Kindred Studios in Yarraville. (Supplied)

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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

Take weight off naturally Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Weight Off Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton. ■ Catherine, 0416 612 517 or Bob, 0411 824 739 Colin Gough having a great time at the Morning Melodies at Iramoo Community Centre. (Damjan Janevski)

Card making classes Melton South Community Centre is running an Intermediate Card Making class on Monday, May 23, between 10.30am-noon. People who already have some experience are welcome to join this class and enhance their skills as they create their own handmade greeting cards, suitable for all occasions. Cost: $5; everything is supplied. ■ 9747 8576

280248_01

Food Handling course Melton South Community Centre is running its next Food Handlers (HLTFSE001) course, along with Food Safety Supervisor (HLTFSE005 & HLTFSE007), on Saturday, June 4. These nationally recognised qualifications are valid for three years, and are essential for anyone working with food. Food Handlers: $65/$60concession. Food Safety Supervisor: $90/$85 concession. ■ 9747 8576

Botanic Gardens Day Friends of Melton Botanic Garden are hosting a fun-filled event at the Melton Botanic Garden from 10am to 2pm on Sunday, May 29. There will be guided tours, the Lions Club Bacchus Marsh train, plant sales, children’s activities and entertainment from the Greater Western Community Band.

FIT KIDZ Challenge Melton Personal Training is encouraging kids to get active with a seven- week Fit Kidz Challenge, starting May 9 at 4pm. Open to kids age 8 to 14 years old, each session includes 40 minutes of agility, balance, strength, muscle control, cardiovascular fitness, and most of all, fub! Registration is $145 per child. ■ http://surl.li/bwxgy or 9743 0917

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

Sunshine Community Brass Sunshine Community Brass is looking for new members to join its vibrant band of musicians. With over 90 years of history, the band is looking to grow for the future. Sunshine Community Brass is currently looking for trumpet and percussion players. We rehearse Tuesday nights from 7.30pm, 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine. ■ Andrew, 0419 444 620

Cake decorating Cake Decorating for Beginners returns to Melton South Community Centre in term two (Thursday, May 19 to June 9, 6-8.30pm). Learn how to create a classic sponge cake and decorate it using a variety of icing and piping techniques. $115/$110 concession. ■ 9747 8576

Bacchus Marsh Market A monthly market has returned to Bacchus

Marsh. Bacchus Marsh Alive will host a variety of stalls, food trucks and family fun at Maddingley Park Reserve for residents to enjoy. The market will run on the second Saturday of every month from 9am until 2pm. Residents are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket and invite their family and friends for a fun day out.

Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh makes reusable shopping bags from rescued fabric. They’re looking for people to cut, sew, iron and market our bags. Meets on the first Sunday each month at the Darley Neighbourhood House 2pm-4pm. Find the Facebook group for more details.

Melton Bridge Club The Melton Bridge Club has recommenced weekly social Bridge sessions at the Melton Library on Fridays from 10am-noon. Come along to play an exciting, social card game and have loads of fun. Bridge offers the suspense of poker, the cerebral qualities of chess and the excitement of athletic sports, all in a relaxed and social setting. If you like playing cards this is for you. Come along and see what it is all about. ■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817 or Ros at the library.

Melton Friendship Group. Join the Melton Friendship Group for singles 55 and older. Meet fortnightly for coffee and chat nights and organised affordable outings and events. ■ 0406 493 734

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 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

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

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

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

Rotary Club of Melton The Rotary Club of Melton invites new guests to join its meetings, held on the first and third Tuesday of every month, 6pm at Tabcorp Park in Melton. ■ meltonrotary@gmail.com

Kays Classic Fashions Parade Hosted by the Gisborne Uniting church, the Winter Fashion Parade by Kays Classic Fashions is happening on Monday, May 23 at 1.30pm at the church in Brantome Street, Gisborne. Great brands, low prices, at sizes 10-24 and a special rack are all drawcards. Entry is $10, which includes afternoon tea and door prizes. ■ Maree, 5428 3852

Sunbury badminton fun The Sunbury Badmintion Club has a new extra playing time of Wednesdays, 10am-noon. All are welcome to attend at Clarke Oval Stadium, 49 Riddell Road, with equipment provided and coaching available. Playing for the first time is free. ■ sunburybc@gmail.com

Family History and Heritage Society If you’ve got a hankering to learn more about Sunbury and even your own family history, why not check out the Sunbury Family History and Heritage Society, meeting at 1.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Centre, 8 O’Shanassy Street, Sunbury. ■ https://bit.ly/3jvM6oJ

Lancefield park run relaunch Community singing group If you love to sing, come join the Melton Singers. The group rehearses regularly and also performs at aged care facilities. The group is very relaxed and sings songs mainly from the 60’s and 70’s. It meets Tuesdays at 10am. ■ Val, 0418 667 150

Lace up your runners and join the relaunch of Lancefield’s 5km park run, happening every Saturday at 8am at Lancefield Park. No need to be speedy - participants can go at any pace. Make your way to 62 Chauncey Street, Lancefield, and remember to register. ■ https://bit.ly/3IEDB4L Tuesday, 17 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15

PUZZLES

2 4 7 hard

3 8

10 11 12 13

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

9-LETTER WORD

easy

medium

1 2 5 7 6 4 3 9 8

3 1 4 2 5 6 7 9 8

9 5 7 8 3 1 4 2 6

8 2 6 4 7 9 5 3 1

4 7 9 6 2 3 8 1 5

ISLAMIC OVERDUE RELIEVE RESENTS 8 LETTERS REELECTS SEPARATE SURROUND TIRELESS

6 LETTERS TWANGS VIEWER

10 LETTERS ERADICATED GLOSSARIES

7 LETTERS CLIMATE ENGAGES

A compass needle always points in what direction?

Bundesliga and La Liga are both leagues of what sport?

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

What genre of writing is novelist Nicholas Sparks primarily known for?

The movie Fargo is named for the town in which US state?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

David Lee Roth is the lead singer of which band?

Is This Anything? is a 2020 book by which famous comedian?

Tabula Rasa is a latin phrase meaning what?

Henry Cavill (pictured) plays which character in the TV series The Witcher?

‘Cast on’ and ‘purl’ are terms used in what activity?

E N S

7 9 1 5 6 8 2 4 3

5 4 3 9 1 2 6 8 7

3 8 7 9 1 2 5 4 6

6 4 9 3 5 8 2 1 7

9 7 3 4 8 1 6 5 2

8 5 6 2 9 3 4 7 1

2 1 4 6 7 5 9 8 3

4 6 1 5 3 7 8 2 9

7 3 2 8 4 9 1 6 5

5 9 8 1 2 6 7 3 4

9 8 4 5 2 1 7 6 3

8 1 6 2 7 3 5 9 4

2 7 9 1 5 4 3 8 6

4 5 3 6 8 9 1 2 7

3 2 8 9 4 5 6 7 1

6 4 5 8 1 7 2 3 9

1 9 7 3 6 2 4 5 8

16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 May, 2022

SNOTS SOFAS TACIT TASTE TEMPT UTERI WARMS

No. 081

A G E R

5 LETTERS ADORE AGAIN AGLOW AMASS APRON AROSE ASSET AUDIT CHASE CHESS CIVIL CLUNG EASES EDGED ELOPE ENDOW

4 LETTERS ACRE AWES CHIN EATS ECHO GAGS HERD HERS IRIS LILT LOIN NEST RAKE REST RIPE

ERROR FLORA GLARE HENCE IDLER INDEX LINER MORON NESTS OLDER OTTER PULSE RANGE REMIT RENTS SAUNA SCENE SEEDS SEXES SLIME SNIPE

20-05-22

A P S E P R O N N O U T

7 6 2 4 3 8 9 1 5

L A S

2 6 8 3 4 7 1 5 9

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

E O

19 words: Very good

SCUM SPAT USED

agio, agist, APOLOGIST, gait, gaol, gaslit, gasp, gilt, gist, gloat, gloats, goal, goalpost, goat, igloo, lags, logo, logs, pogo, sago, slag, slog, spigot, stag, tags, toga

6 3 2 1 8 5 9 7 4

Today’s Aim: 13 words: Good

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

26 words: Excellent

hard

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”.

R A N G E

QUICK QUIZ

3 4

2 4

7 5

Q R

5x5

XWC BM I Z P AN Y F J

E T H U D S V G K L OQ R

1 7

10 The America’s Cup is a prestigious event in which sport? ANSWERS: 1. North 2. Romance 3. Van Halen 4. Clean slate 5. Geralt of Rivia (The Witcher) 6. Knitting 7. Soccer 8. North Dakota 9. Jerry Seinfeld 10. Yacht racing

4 3

3 LETTERS AIM ALE AND DIG EEL ELK GEL GET HEM HEN HIS IDS ION IRS MES NIT ONE OUR PEA PEG RED RUE SAC SAD SEE TIN

No. 081

O V E R D U E

9 3 5 4 7 4 9 3 6 1 2

WORDFIT

S A U N A

No. 081

A G L O W

DECODER

T A C I T

2 7 6 2 1 3 6 1 7 3

I S L A M I C

O L D E R

Condiment (4) Incapable of being seen (9)

L I N E R

medium

DOWN 1 2

G L A R E

1 3

S P A I T R S A C R R E E L I E V E

3 5 4

22 23 25 26

O F A S U L S E R O S E R E D E A T S C H A S E O U N D D I G R I P E A T E D K E W E R A L E P R O N E M P T A S E S

5 2 9 1 5

24 27 28 29 30

C L I M A T E

5 7 4 8

18 20 21

16 17 19

T S I L R I E M L E E S S U S G E A D G S H G E E R T S

R E S E N T S

1 6 9 9 6 1 2 3 4 1

S N C I U T M I R R I E S S T S E P A R A T E

9 8

S A M D O R O N

1 3 2

Travelling bag (8) Brought about (6) Riverside embankment (5) Pleasure (9) Climb (6) 16th US president (7) Those who believe in social change (8) Latin name of England (arch) (6) Family members (6) Practise (8) Exchanging something for money (7) Library-goer (6) State of existing in reality (9) Rough woollen cloth (5) Christian festival (6) Swedish telecommunications company (8)

T E I N N G A N G E E S S T H L E O R I D N A O W N E E S

easy

Greek island (5) Plan (8) City in southern France (7) To deal with (3,2) Release (9) Gem (4) Painting of the countryside (9) Bulkiness (9) One who exposes another (8) Territory ruled by an Islamic monarch (7) Waterlily (5) Profit (4) Mesoamerican culture (5) Biblical garden (4)

3 4 6 7 8 9 14

ACROSS 1 5 10 11 12 13 14

No. 081

I N D E X

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.

QUICK CROSSWORD

H E N C E

No. 081

C H E S S

SUDOKU

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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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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.

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BACCHUS MARSH LOCKSMITHS 24/7 Locksmiths Mention All Suburbs 0418 534 201 or 0414 930 586 this ad for Shop located at 36 Grant St, 10% off Bacchus Marsh 12380364-RC10-18

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1 X Miniature Pony, female, Black, age unknown. no identifying marks. 1 X Crossbred sheep, White, age unknown. unshorn Impounded on Saturday 7 May 2022 from Melton Highway Plumpton. If not claimed and fees paid by Thursday 19 May 2022, these animals will be rehoused or disposed of by Melton City Council in accordance with the Act. All enquiries regarding the above-mentioned animal should be directed to Council’s Animal Management Unit on 9747 7200. Attention Ofﬁcer John Fleming, Animal Management. 12550066-AV20-22

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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

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CHOOKS FOR SALE Hyline/Isa Brown pullets Sexed and vaccinated.

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MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Practical lines with plenty of style work well visually. (Pictures: Supplied)

Smart SUV for the whole family By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring

seven-seat models It has lane- and road-departure warnings, there’s blind-spot monitoring is fitted to the VTi X and up models. If you’re driving another model you will have to pay attention to what’s happening rather than having the car do it for you. What Honda calls ‘Lane Watch’ is a blind spot camera that gives a picture on the interior screen when you turn on the blinker. However, it’s only on the passenger side, presumably because Honda feels the driver has better vision on their side. Can’t say we liked the way it works, so I used the usual turn of my head to check before changing lanes.

Honda CR-V VTi L7 is a seven-seat SUV that is one of many models within the comprehensive range. It’s aimed at those who need to carry plenty of people, often including children either on everyday running about, though it’s the sort of vehicle that can be used on holiday trips as well. Keep in mind that if you do carry seven the luggage capacity is severely limited. Check for yourself be taking the family along while you are choosing which SUV you’re going to buy and making sure how they all fit in. At the same time have the little ones have a good view out to the side.

Driving Styling The designers have sensibly kept practicality in mind when penning CR-V but have managed to give it a pretty styling look. All who commented on it during our test period liked the shape.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE

Interior

CR-V 2.0 Vi 2WD: $35,300

The front seats are wide and comfortable and are shaped to provide support during fairly spirited cornering. The second-row seats have plenty of space to accommodate two adults or teens who are growing up fast. And the centre seat is wide enough to be reasonably comfortable. There’s a fold-down centre arm rest with drink holders, directional air vents provide a good flow. There are pockets behind both front seats, and bottle holders in each door. The rearmost seats are reasonably spacious but aren’t all that easy to get into. At least for adults, the kids will love them and will chose to sit way back there as far from the parents as possible! Ahead of the driver is a part-digital instrument cluster, with a 7.0-inch touchscreen sitting out from the dashboard. There is a phone-shaped shelf in the centre console, large drink holders and a deep centre stowage as well as big door bins.

CR-V 1.5 VTi 2WD: $38,300

20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 May, 2022

CR-V 1.5 VTi 7 2WD: $40,300 CR-V 1.5 VTi X 2WD: $41,200 CR-V 1.5 VTi L7 2WD: $48,700 CR-V 1.5 VTi L AWD: $45,500 CR-V 1.5 VTi LX AWD: $53,200

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

Infotainment Android Auto and wired Apple CarPlay are standard in the CR-V model, as is satellite navigation with traffic updates.

all the way from 2000 to 5000 revs. The CR-V’s engine sits beside a CVT automatic that keeps the revs at exactly the right place all the time.

Engines / Transmissions

Safety

Power comes from a high-tech1.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine. It has 140 kW of power and 240 Nm of torque that’s there

Honda CR-V has a five-star ANCAP rating. There are front, front-side and curtain airbags, the latter extending to the third row in

Driving on smooth roads, these Hondas are quiet and unflustered, indeed there was near silence from the tyres on motorways. Some coarse-chip surfaces added significant noise, but not to an uncomfortable level. Comfort is good and the seats supported well, even over long distances. Steering is light and responsive, it’s safe and forgiving in tight cornering if you push it hard. Obviously, it’s not intended to be driven that way, but it’s nice to know should you want to give it a fang. Honda has a long history in motor sport, whether it’s on two wheels or four. The cruise control is easy to set up and adjust on the move. Honda CR-V’s engine has a minimum of turbo lag. The transmission is always in the correct ratio - which is hardly a surprise given that it has an infinite number of ‘gears’ between the lowest and highest ratios in the automatic. If you’re not used to driving a continuously variable transmission you may initially not like the way it operates. However, you will become accustomed to it and appreciate the added performance and fuel saving it provides. Fuel consumption on our 500-plus kilometres of testing was in the seven to eight litres per hundred kilometres around town and in the suburbs. On the motorways it dropped to an impressively low five to six litres per hundred.

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Mister Hunter stuns crowd and delights owners Mass scenes of celebration broke out across the Tabcorp Park Melton lawn as Mister Hunter produced a stunning final sprint to capture a huge prize for his big band of owners. On a night when six Group 1s were run and won the APG Vic Gold Bullion final for two-year-old colts and geldings was one to remember for reinsman Jack Laugher, trainer Vince Dicocco and a 17-member strong ownership group, with their Huntsville colt rattling home to improve from last to first. “It does make it feel that bit … better doing it for a big group of owners,” Laugher told TrotsVision. “They all probably haven’t had a great deal of horses in their time, but there’s just a bunch of them that own little bits and pieces of him. They were all here tonight and cheering him on – they all got a great thrill out of it and so have I and it’s great for the sport really.” The win was Laugher’s first Group 1 triumph, outstanding reward for the reinsman who’s been lauded since crossing from Tasmania to build his career. “It’s always something that you would like

Mister Hunter

(Stuart McCormick)

to achieve but when I first moved over that probably wasn’t part of the plan,” Laugher said. “I’m probably just lucky enough to be

driving a few nicer horses now. I was lucky to pick up this one for Vince and all the guys that own him at Ballarat last week. “He put the writing on the wall and he was

just too good, it didn’t really matter who drove him tonight. I was lucky enough to get the steer, I am very grateful for that.” Mister Hunter was a winner of two of his four starts leading in and Laugher showed a very patient hand tonight, happy to wait until approaching the final turn before setting out after the front runners. The confidence was quickly rewarded, with Mister Hunter entering the turn last and departing it level with the leaders. From there he quickly scooted clear in the final 200 for a 6.9-metre win from Will He Reign, with Staroftheshow almost 15 metres in arears in third. Harness Racing Victoria’s sectionals clocked the winner in a 27.74-second final quarter, almost a second quicker than any of his rivals. “Sitting on a helmet he doesn’t feel you’ve got a lot there, but when you pull him out he’s happy to run for you,” Laugher said. “I think going forward he’s going to be a lethal horse with a sit.” Michael Howard

Sports shorts BNL Darley had a big win against Lake Wendouree in the Ballarat Netball League on Saturday. The Devils came away with the 66-31 win. Melton South remained undefeated after beating East Point, 45-28, while Bacchus Marsh lost to Redan, 65-18. The Panthers are one of three undefeated teams and sit third, while the Devils sit a spot further back.

RDNL The Western Rams and Wallan couldn’t be split in the Riddell District Netball League on Saturday. The two teams finished 46 apiece. Woodend-Hesket had a big win against Diggers Rest, winning 50-30. It was the first time the Hawks have beaten the Burras in A-grade. Meanwhile Riddell beat Lancefield 57-39. In the other match, Macedon beat Romsey, 61-29. Macedon sits atop the ladder ahead of Woodend-Hesket.

AFLW Western United are through to the semi-finals. (Supplied)

United through to semis By Tara Murray The dream is still alive for Western United in the A-League competition after a thrilling 1-0 elimination win against Wellington Phoenix. After losing to the Phoenix three times this season, United needed to turn the tables in their first ever home final. Aleksandar Prijovic scored the only goal of the game inside the opening 10 minutes with a half-volley that flew into the top corner of the net. Both goalkeepers pulled off some superb saves to keep the score line at 1-0. United coach John Aloisi said the club was thrilled to win its first home final in its short history. “We were really happy with the win,” he said. “It was our first finals home game we have won as a football club. We are on a journey and we’re trying to create history with the club, and the players were again exceptional. “We’ve had our difficulties in terms of players unavailability and we’ve had our difficulties in terms of not having a home ground and travelling. “They put their head down. [We were] poor

last week in terms of results, [but] finals are different, we got the win that we wanted.” Aloisi said it was some of their more experienced players who stood up when it was really counted. He said the best two players on the park were the goalkeepers. Jamie Young had five saves including a brilliant one in the second half. “I expect that from Jamie,” he said. “I’ve known him for a long time. I coached him in Brisbane and I knew that Jamie can and will pull off those saves and in these games you need experienced players to step up.” Aloisi said he had spoken with Prijovic during the week, after the striker had been left disappointed with his performance against Adelaide United. He said he wanted Prijovic to make the most of his big game experience. “These are the games they enjoy and step up,” he said. “He was so calm the way he took it and we knew we would create overloads in the box. “We had Alek and Dylan Wenzel-Halls in there and a lot of the time we had a winger there too. “We were getting balls into the area as much

as possible, we knew we would have chances.” Aloisi said the partnership between the two strikers was starting to gel, having only played together in recent weeks. Another thing that impressed Aloisi was the composure of Nicolas Milanovic, Rhys Bozinovski and Jerry Skotadis, who haven’t played a lot this year but continued to stay ready when needed. In a good sign for United, vice-captain Josh Risdon returned from injury, coming on in the 69th minute. It wasn’t as good news for Rene Krhin, who left the field with a hamstring injury. Aloisi said he would have scans on Monday to see how bad it is. United now looks forward to the challenge against Melbourne Victory. Game one is on Tuesday, May 17 and game two on Saturday. Aloisi said it was massive for the club. “The players deserve it and the club drive it, been in the top two-three along with Victory and [Melbourne] City,” he said. “It’s good for Melbourne and we’re excited to be there. “It’s going to be difficult, Victory a good side but we believe in ourselves and believe we can match it with anyone.”

Several Western Jets players have been invited to the AFLW draft combine. More than 100 players have been selected for the combine, which will be state-based this year. The combine will be shorter this year with just one physical test, the two-kilometre time trial. Jets captain Charlotte Baskaran leads the Jets selected with Montana Ham, Krystal Russell and Laura Elliott also invited. Bacchus Marsh’s Jamie Lee Speakman has also been invited. No date has been set for the Victorian combine.

EDFL Hillside was blown out of the water in the last quarter against Westmeadows in Essendon District Football League division 1. The game was even for three quarters with the Tigers leading by six points at the last change. Nine goals to one in the final quarter sealed an 18.14 (122)-9.10 (64) win. Josh Covelli kicked four goals for the Sharks. In division 2, Burnside Heights defeated Jacana, 23.21 (159)-3.7 (25). FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly Tuesday, 17 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 21

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Rams are making improvements Results don’t do the Western Rams justice in the Riddell District Football League. The Rams are the only team without a win after five rounds, but have shown signs they are closing the gap with the top sides. Rams coach Marty Weaver said the key for them was now playing four quarters of football. “The results don’t do us justice to be honest,” he said. “We’ve been struggling with players with illness and COVID-19 protocols. We’re having five to 10 players pulling out across our sides each week. “We’ve played some reasonable football, but we haven’t been able to put it all together.” Having not won a game since 2018 the Rams are coming from a long way back. Weaver, who said pre-season that they were looking to decrease their losing margin, said they had been in a lot of games this season. “Like against Romsey we were a couple of

goals down at half time and still in the game at three quarter time,” he said. “Against Lancefield we let them jump us early. We thought we were in with a reasonable chance. “We won the second half. “Against Woodend, same sort of thing. We were down by five goals at half time … We were about four goals down at three quarter time. “The last quarter we had no bench and ran out of legs and they kicked 12 goals. That was our highest losing margin of the year.” Weaver said as well as having to deal with illness and outs, the side was still learning to gel together. There has been a massive turnover of players at the club in recent years. “We’re still a new list,” he said. “On the weekend’s game we had one player who was at the club and he hurt his knee early. “We’ve got a bunch of blokes who are brand

new. Only about half a dozen have been here the last few seasons, everyone else is brand new. “We will continue to work on things.” Mitch Portoglou, Ricky Cameron and Michael Oddie have been some of the standards for the Rams. On Saturday they faced Wallan, losing 31.20 (206)-4.8 (32). Portoglou was named the Rams best. The tests keep coming as they face Riddell, Macedon and Diggers Rest in the next few weeks. “They are top four teams and it will be a challenge and it will really give me a bit more indication where we are at,” Weaver said. In other results on Saturday, Diggers Rest beat Woodend-Hesket, 8.13 (61)-8.8 (56). Tara Murray Marty Weaver.

(Supplied)

Phoenix in good form

Caroline Springs is undefeated after six round.

(Joe Mastroianni). 275238_04

Lakers setting the pace By Tara Murray Caroline Springs is in new territory in the Western Region Football League division 1. Having been around the mark the last couple of seasons, the Lakers have now become the pace setters and are the only undefeated team. Lakers football manager Marc Raak said the feeling around the whole club was really good, with all their sides doing good things. “We’re certainly not complaining,” he said. “It comes off the back of some hard work, getting the structures right and getting in some good recruits. “We didn’t think we would be in this position, but we will take it. We thought we would have maybe one loss, two at most but we have a clean sheet for now.” The challenge now for the Lakers is to keep the momentum going, as they’ve become the hunted, not the hunter. Raak said the focus doesn’t change for them and they will continue to work hard and turn up each week. 22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 May, 2022

He’s realistic though knowing that there will likely be a loss at some stage. “We know a loss will come at some point, it’s rare you will go through an 18 round season and go undefeated. The Lakers achieved a first on Saturday as they beat Werribee Districts for the first time since the Lakers joined division 1. Raak said that alone was incentive enough to try and get the win. They had already got first win against Altona earlier this season. The margin was 22 points at half time, with Raak saying the game was still anyone’s to take, with the margin only 16 at the last change. A seven goal to nil final quarter sealed the 15.19 (109)-6.8 (44) win for the Lakers. Steven Kyriazis kicked four goals for the winners. Kyriazis was one of the best according to Raak. He was also impressed with the game of Lachlan Mellon, saying it was one of the best games he’d seen him play. Nathan Aidonis and Jamie Ristoski were

two others that had played good games. Raak said the most pleasing thing about that was they had all come through the juniors. He said having got in the right senior players, it was having a flow on affect. “They were all juniors at the club and are finding their feet really quickly in division 1. “We’ve got experience around the ground and they don’t panic. They’ve played a lot of division 1 footy and it helps the younger guys between 18 and 22.” The Lakers this week face Sunshine. Raak said it was also hard to win against Sunshine at home. In other results, Altona beat Point Cook, 22.15 (147)-4.7 (31). Spotswood was too good for Sunshine, winning 22.24 (156)-11.5 (71), while Deer Park beat Yarraville Seddon Eagles, 14.17 (101)-11.8 (74). The Lakers’ division 1 women’s team had a bye as part of the split round. They will face Manor Lakes on Saturday. Their division 2 side got a win, with North Sunshine forfeiting.

Melton Phoenix continued its good form on Saturday against Bendigo in the FV state league 5 west season. Sitting second on the ladder, the Phoenix made the trip to Bendigo to take on a tricky Bendigo side. The Phoenix, who has not conceded a goal since round three, again kept a clean sheet in the 3-0 win. Phoenix scored twice within the first 25 minutes to get the game on their terms. Alex Dimond would score the side’s and his third in the 66th minute. The only downside in the loss was a red card to Jason Hill in the dying minutes. Speaking before the game, Phoenix coach Darren Traynor said the main thing for the group at this stage of the season was that they were enjoying their soccer. “We’re going well and the goal for us is to continue that,” he said. “We’re nearly half way through the season, but anything can change. The guys are really enjoying playing together, which is the most important thing.” Traynor said the group had a lot of enthusiasm, with the average age of the players between 18 and 22. He said many of the group had been in the National Premier League system, but had come back to get more opportunity. Traynor said while they’re happy with how things are travelling, they will get a better indication in the next couple of weeks. “We’ll be able to gauge things in the next couple of weeks once we’ve played everyone,” he said. “If we can win those matches it will leave us in a good position. There’s about half a dozen sides still in the mix vying for promotion.” The club’s new club rooms are open which is another bonus for the side. The Phoenix this week face Lara at Lara. In other results, Caroline Springs George Cross had a 2-2 draw with Keilor Park. Keilor Park scored twice in the first half to open up a lead, with the Georgies getting one back on half time. Jay Hart would equal the scores in the 88th minute to ensure his side took home one point. The Georgies remain on top of the table, five points clear of second.

Supporters enjoy entertaining Falcons victory City West Falcons put on an entertaining display against the Ariels as they continued their winning ways in the Victorian Netball League championship division. Playing in the late time slot, the Falcons overcame a slow first five minutes to run away with an 81-39 win. Falcons coach Marg Lind said they were pretty happy with the result. “We started off a bit slow and were over using the ball,” she said. “Once we settled we were OK. “We then set our own goals, as thought ahead to percentage. So we worked towards

getting 80 goals and keeping them under 40. “It was something to focus on and in the end it was a pretty entertaining game.” With the margin blowing out, the Falcons rotated their squad around with everyone playing at least a half. Lind said they took the opportunity to try some different combinations and roles. “We played Maggie [Lind] in centre and gave Montana [Holmes] and Soli [Ropati] another go in wing attack. “It’s something they are getting better at and having Maggie there saying what she would

do helps. They all offer something different. “Sarah [Szczykulski] played in goal defence. She plays in goal defence in the mixed competition, so we thought we could see what she could do.” Lind said they all played well with Uneeq Palavi playing an entertaining game in goals. She said the crowd loved watching someone, who was clearly having fun on court. “She was having a joyful night,” she said. “She had a fall way shot that went swish and was quite entertaining. “That was the icing on the cake.”

Devils making progress By Tara Murray Darley has ticked a lot of boxes in the first block of the Ballarat Football League season. The Devils on Saturday won their third match of the year, beating the Sunbury Lions in a thriller. The Lions led at each of the breaks, with eight points being the biggest margin. The Devils kicked four goals in the final quarter to come from behind to get the 10.12 (72)-9.14 (68) win. Devils president Mark Shelly said it was an interesting match. “It was a fairly low scoring game in the early part,” he said. ‘“We missed a few opportunities early on the scoreboard. It was a pretty hard fought win in the end.” Mace Cousins and Nick Rodda kicked two goals each for the Devils. Shelly said skipper Brett Bewley continued his hot form, again finding plenty of the ball. Dylan Landt, in his first game for the Devils due to Victorian Football League commitments, was another standout against his former team. Mitch Ward and Ayden Tanner also had good games. Shelly said one of the most impressive things about the win was getting the points while missing a couple of key members of their backline. Matthew Brett is set to miss eight to 10 weeks with a knee injury, while Darren Leonard has a couple of issues injury wise. The win has the Devils sitting in fifth position. It’s a long way from last season when they didn’t win a match. Shelley said there were some good signs so far. “We’re fairly comfortable after the first five rounds with a number of wins on the board which is good. “Round one we took the points against Sebastopol and it was a good kick start to the year. As [coach] Dan [Jordan] has alluded to, it’s a journey and there has been good buy in from the playing group. “There’s still plenty of improvement within the group going forward. “Things are looking really positive, but footy is a funny thing and it can change quickly.” Off field, plenty of work is still happening on the renovations of the club rooms. He said they were running a little bit behind what was predicted, but the side would still play all their home matches at Darly Park. Shelly said there was a really positive vibe around the club and the connection between the junior and senior clubs was as strong as it had been for a long time. In other results, Melton remains undefeated after beating Ballarat, 18.16 (124)-3.11 (29). The Bloods step the tone in the first quarter, kicking 7.8 to one point to take control of the match. Ryan Carter kicked four goals and Braedan Kight kicked three. Liam Carter was named their best. Bacchus Marsh had a much closer match,

It was a clean sweep for the Falcons against the Ariels, with the division 1 and under-19s teams both getting wins. All three teams are sitting inside the top four, with one match left of the first match ups between the sides. The Falcons will be at home at Altona this week to face the Boroondara Express. Lind said after a big crowd in round one they were hoping to get plenty of fans to watch them. Tickets are $5 and entry is free for under-6s. Tara Murray

Thoroughbreds have tough run The tough run continues for Melton Thoroughbreds in Big V men’s division 2. After eight rounds the Thoroughbreds are the only team without a win. Coming off a solid performance against Altona Gators in the previous round, the Thoroughbreds were hoping for a good performance against the Pakenham Warriors on Saturday night. The Thoroughbreds were understrength with just eight players and coach Kelvin Bowers wasn’t on the side line either. The Warriors had the game their own way on the way to a 112-73 win. The Warriors got off to a flier and led 30-22 at quarter time. They really got going in the second quarter, increasing the lead to 16 points at the main break. Needing a big third quarter, the Thoroughbreds struggled to keep with the Warriors, as the lead increased to 25 points. With the game already over, the Thoroughbreds were playing for pride in the final quarter. It was one they would want to forget, outscored 23-9. Maluk Adut top scored with 19 points, while Michael Thompson, Koby Skenderis and Adam Dahingo all scored double figures. Melton’s next match is against the Mornington Breakers on Sunday. The Thoroughbreds youth league men suffered a close loss to the Sunbury Jets in division 2. A poor second quarter would prove costly for the Thoroughbreds. After trailing by one point at quarter time, a 21-9 second quarter increased that to 13 at the main break. The margin remained the same at the last change. The Thoroughbreds won the last quarter, but it wasn’t enough. Zak Martinez top scored with 23 points, playing all but 39 seconds of the game. The Thoroughbreds sit fourth on the ladder with three wins and five losses. In the youth league women’s division 2 competition, the Thoroughbreds lost to the Chelsea Gulls, 98-50. Madeleine Rego top scored with 21 points. Tara Murray

Shane Page was one of Darley’s best on Saturday.

(Shawn Smits)

beating Redan 9.13 (67)-8.9 (57) The Cobras led all day and were able to hold off the Lions as they came hard in the final quarter.

Harrison King was the Cobras best. In good news for the Cobras, Tom German has committed to coaching the club until the end of 2023. Tuesday, 17 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

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