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Stepping out to school Burnside Primary School pupils, teachers and parents hit the pavement last Friday as part of national Walk to School Safely Day. The day aims to promote healthy habits and road safety. School principal Davide Lombardi said the day was a great opportunity to remind children about safe pedestrian behaviour and road rules. “It’s a really perfect way to start the day by getting some exercise and fresh air, so we’ve got clear minds to start the day,” Mr Lombardi said. “It’s also a great opportunity for some connection after COVID, for families to be able to connect on the way to school.” Mr Lombardi said the pupils were “super excited” to participate in the initiative. “We’ve all got badges, we’ve got passports where they can log their walking to school, our staff getting involved as well, “It’s a whole school community event, which we haven’t had enough of because of COVID, so this is a great opportunity to do that as well.”

Burnside Primary School pupils Islas, Jacob and Bailey. (Damjan Janevski) 279354_01

Olivia Condous

Disability stories wanted By Olivia Condous Moorabool residents who have a disability are being encouraged to learn about an ongoing public inquiry that could affect their future. An independent disability advocacy organisation will hold an information session this week in Bacchus Marsh about the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with a Disability, in order to help residents to share their stories. Grampians disAbility Advocacy chief executive Deborah Verdon said one of the main factors impacting people with disabilities in regional areas was the increased

pressure on health services and the residential market, after many metropolitan dwellers sought a “tree change” during the pandemic. “There are people with disabilities who struggle to find affordable rental … and worse than that, an accessible rental,” Ms Verdon said. “If you have certain access requirements, not every rental is going to be something that you can even get into comfortably, so that’s another systemic issue. “There are so many ways that a person with a disability’s life is impacted on a daily basis and it can be a real struggle.” The royal commission is investigating the

mistreatment of people with a disability in all settings, including education, residential and the justice system. Grampians disAbility Advocacy provides free support to Moorabool residents with a variety of services available, including NDIS appeal services and independent living support. The information session will educate people with a disability and their carers on how to access services and the support available for those who are interested in making a submission to the royal commission. Ms Verdon said the organisation hoped that the inquiry would make recommendations for

improved oversight of the disability service system in order to prevent a small number of providers taking advantage of NDIS funding and providing poor quality services. “That’s where a lot of the abuse and neglect and exploitation can come from,” she said. “The disabled person is very vulnerable and very reliant on the services for daily living, therefore they’re really at risk in some ways if someone doesn’t have the best intentions.” The free information session will be held at 207 Main Street. Bacchus Marsh, on Thursday, May 26 at 2pm. Details: https://grampiansadvocacy.org.au/ whats-on/

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ALP claims new seat of Hawke By Olivia Condous Labor’s Sam Rae will be the MP for the newly created seat of Hawke despite a sizeable protest vote for the minor parties and independents. Hawke, which covers the west of the Melton municipality and the majority of Moorabool, was established after an electoral distribution and is considered a notionally safe Labor seat. As of Monday mornin, Mr Rae had won 57 per cent of the two-party preferred count compared to Liberal candidate Enamul Haque’s 43 per cent. That represented a notional swing of 2.8 per

cent against Labor, with the party polling 33 per cent primary vote. The Liberals garnered 27 per cent of the first preference vote, ahead of the Greens’ Lynda Wheelock and independent James Bingham, who both won 8 per cent. Despite leader Craig Kelly visiting the electorate, the United Australia Party’s Andrew Cuthbertson claimed only 7 per cent of first preferences, followed by Nick Suduk of One Nation on 5 per cent. Mr Rae is a former state secretary of the Victorian Labor Party who was working at PricewaterhouseCoopers before winning

preselection in Hawke. Labor promised $86,000 in funding for upgrades to a Sikh community hall in Plumpton, a $39,000 outdoor learning space for Melton Primary School, as well as $400,000 for Federation Park in Darley. It will also put $10 million towards planning work to upgrade the Western Highway. In a post on social media, Mr Rae said being elected for Hawke as a “privilege”. “Our work starts today to deliver a better future here in Hawke, one where we look after our community and deliver the social services and infrastructure we deserve.”

In the seat of Gorton, Brendan O’Connor was elected for his seventh term in parliament, winning 65 per cent on the two-party preferred count. Mr O’Connor said he was excited to be a part of a team that will deliver a series of significant reforms that will change the country. “Labor will take real climate change and adopt the carbon neutral target of zero net emissions by the year 2050, and enshrine this target in legislation,” he said. “Labor will introduce a national anti-corruption body, and we will legislate by the end of the year.”

Youth crime prevention support

Bulla Park chief executive Georgia Beattie has seen the increased demand for yummy fungi first hand. (Damjan Janevski) 281194_06

Hu-fungus demand at Bulla Park New research has found Australians are eating more fresh food than ever, and whether it’s because of a gradual transition away from meat, or simply that people began to cook more at home during the pandemic, mushrooms are in. The recent research by Australian Mushrooms showed more than 59 per cent of Australians improved their diets and eating habits during the pandemic, and 63 per cent prepared more meals at home. More than 60 per cent of Australians even

consider blending mushrooms into mince for added taste and texture. Bulla Park farm owner Georgia Beattie has seen the uptick in demand first hand since she bought the Diggers Rest business three years ago, which is now the largest organic mushroom farm in the country. “As a farm, we’ve really noticed an increase in sales via the supermarkets. People are cooking at home more, I think there’s an increased consciousness because of this forced downtime we had,” Ms Beattie said.

From a former IT professional to a fungi farmer, Ms Beattie now dedicates her life to growing mushrooms sustainably, finding a purpose for all waste and using renewable energy however she can. “I think that there’s potentially an increase of people wanting to give meat a bit of a rest on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday with their meal and rather than having mushrooms as the side dish with their steak, instead they’re making it the hero,” she said. Elsie Lange

Melton youth needing crime prevention support will have help for another year, as the Victorian government has confirmed the council crime prevention program funding will be extended. The City of Melton’s UTURN 193 program has run since 2017 and helps young people who live, work or study in the area avoid crime. Victorian Crime Prevention Minister Natalie Hutchins announced the government would provide funding to allow Melton council to deliver the program for another year. Melton mayor Goran Kesic said the council was grateful to the state government for continuing to support the program. “It has already helped more than 4200 young people in our area by linking them to education and employment pathways and providing intensive case management,” Cr Kesic said. “The program addresses low self-esteem, disengagement from education, unemployment, emerging mental health issues, drug and alcohol misuse, trauma and violence. “The program works because it enables participants to take the lead in identifying their own needs and seek opportunities for personal growth and skill development on their terms.” UTURN 193 provides confidential support for people between 10 and 24 years-of-age who are at risk of committing crime or have already offended in the criminal justice system The project is delivered in a partnership between Melton council, police, Odyssey House Victoria, Djerriwarrh Health Services, and Djerriwarrh Community and Education Services. Details: https://melton.vic.gov.au/ uturn193 Olivia Condous

Hawks sell WestWaters in move away from gambling The president of Hawthorn Football Club has announced the club has found a buyer for the WestWaters Hotel and Entertainment Complex in Caroline Springs, in a move to distance the club from gambling. In a letter to members on May 18, Hawthorn club president Jeff Kennett said the sale was a part of the club board’s plan to strengthen finances and diversify investments. “The time is right to make this change,” Mr Kennett said. Mr Kennett said the club had waited until

the move to sell the hotel would not impact the club’s finances negatively and the best price had been secured. The sale also marks the club’s attempt to move away from profiting from gambling revenue, as the club owns 165 poker machines across two Melbourne venues. “As a board, we have been clear we would begin to move away from gaming … that time is now for WestWaters,” Mr Kennett said. The WestWaters Hotel houses 90 of

machines owned by the club, with the remainder located at the Vegas Club venue in Waverley Gardens shopping centre. According to the Alliance for Gambling Reform, the club gained the highest gambling revenue of all AFL clubs in the 2019-2020 financial year, making $18.2 million. A statement at the end of president’s letter said Hawthorn Football Club is a signatory of the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation and committed to reducing the harm caused by gambling.

Hawthorn chief executive Justin Reeves said the decision to sell the hotel would hold the club in good stead. “A lot of work has gone into ensuring that this decision will set up the club for a very strong future,” Mr Reeves said. The club has not revealed the identity of the buyer, but said the terms of the sale had been agreed by both parties and it was on track for settlement. Olivia Condous Tuesday, 24 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 3

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More Inspectors More inspections

With more Inspectors out there, if your healthcare facility is unsafe, you will be caught. Keeping your employees safe is your job. Making sure you do it, is ours. worksafe.vic.gov.au/more-inspectors-more-inspections

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Community hub for Cobblebank By Olivia Condous A new community hub will provide support to Melton residents dealing with health, education and employment challenges. Melton council announced the Cobblebank Community Services Hub will begin construction next year, with funding from the Victorian government’s Growing Suburbs Fund. Mayor Goran Kesic said the hub would help meet critical service needs in the area. “This hub will help address the gaps in health and community services by providing

an accessible and affordable central space to deliver services,” Cr Kesic said. “It’s about making these services accessible to everyone, by having them available locally, and in a place that people can reach on public transport too. “This is going to be a state-of-the-art facility that will serve one of Australia’s fastest growing communities.” The new centre will host many providers who will offer services in family violence, mental health, disability and early intervention, children’s services, employment, alcohol and drug support, refugee support and specific services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander and culturally diverse communities. The hub will provide an affordable, central space for health and human services providers to work in order to meet the community’s needs. North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network service development and reform executive director Jag Dhaliwal said the organisations that will be based at the hub will strengthen the developing health ecosystem in the Melton region and help to meet the significant and growing demand for support. “We look forward to working with service providers and the City of Melton to help make

the new Cobblebank hub a really valuable asset for this thriving new community,“ Mr Dhaliwal said. Melton MP Steve McGhie said the Victorian government would to continue to invest in Melton to help deliver the services required for a growing community. The council is accepting expressions of interest until June 17 from community service organisations who are interested in becoming tenants of the hub, which will be available at a reduced commercial rate for community, allied health and education services. Details: https://cobblebankcsh.com.au/

Young achiever lauded A young Melton achiever was recognised last month for their work supporting people with a disability and being a role model for Indigenous and autistic young people. Elise Muller was awarded the First National Real Estate Leadership Award at the 7 News Victorian Young Achiever awards at the end of April. From growing up as a high school student in Melton, to playing Essendon Football Club in the women’s Victorian Football League, to founding their own social enterprise to support people with a disability and working as a speaker, consultant and presenter on neurodiversity, Indigenous, LGBTQ+ and mental health issues, Elise has done it all. Elise said it was important to acknowledge every part of their identity to inspire others to be true to themselves. “I really wanted to be relatable and to be real, and for people to witness that and then

what they receive is permission to be their authentic self,” Elise said. “What I wanted to share is that what makes you different, your authentic self, is your strength.” Elise said witnessing systemic issues as a disabled person who has struggled with mental health inspired them to work hard in order to make changes for others. “Seeing the systems, how simple the changes can be and how much of an effect that’s having on young people, when those changes aren’t made really motivates me,” Elise said. In their acceptance speech on the night of the awards, Elise said they were proud of being able to use what makes them different to reach their full potential. “If you don’t belong in this world it is because you are here to make a ‘you-shaped’ imprint.” Elise Muller was presented with the award by First National Real Estate chief executive Ray Ellis.

Olivia Condous

(Supplied)

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Have your say on Melton council Melton council is reaching out to residents for feedback on services and facilities. An independent research group will conduct phone interviews with 800 randomly selected residents across the council area over a month period. The survey will gauge community satisfaction and guide the council in determining residents needs. Participants will have the opportunity to share what issues matter most to them. Details: https:// melton.vic.gov.au/satisfactionsurvey

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Members of Melton Trauma Teddies with David Suttie from Djerriwarrh Masonic Lodge.

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A group of Melton volunteers have been recognised for their hard work making teddy bears for those in need. Melton Red Cross Trauma Teddies were presented with a donation of $700 from Djerriwarrh Masonic Lodge last week, in order to help purchase more wool for teddies to be donated. The group donate handmade, knitted teddy bears to local medical centres, SES units, police stations and other organisations who encounter vulnerable people in the community. While hospitals aren’t currently accepting teddies due to COVID-19 safety measures, Melton Trauma Teddies co-ordinator Jean Dickson said the best recognition was the reaction from children in hospitals. “The kids just love them,” she said. The donation will help the group of volunteers to make 750 more teddies. “We have ladies that have been knitting for

years, most of them buy their own wool,” Ms Dickson said. The initiative has been running in Melton for 13 years. Ms Dickson said the group knitted 1044 teddies last year and 500 so far this year. Djerriwarrh Lodge member David Suttie said the group had supported Melton Trauma Teddies for many years. “It’s not a lot of money in the scheme of things, but to those ladies it makes a massive difference,” Mr Suttie said. “The work that they do in making those teddies and providing them to children and people who go through stressful situations, is really great. “I can’t sew to save myself, but the least we can do is provide some funding for the good work that they do.”

Melton residents can have their say on a new Learning Strategy, which aims to support residents to achieve their education goals. The strategy will aim to improve learning outcomes for the community, attract new learning opportunities to the city, and grow the economic and digital capabilities of residents. Residents can complete an online survey or attend an in-person or online workshop in June. The feedback will inform the Learning Strategy vision and actions to assist council with improving local learning opportunities. Those who participate will go in the draw to win one of five $100 vouchers to a local business. Details: https://conversations.melton. vic.gov.au/learningstrategy

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Pricing under the pump By Benjamin Millar

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

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

‘‘

strongly encourage residents to complain to the ACCC

’’

- Steve McGhie

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

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

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

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

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

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NEWS

New artwork commissioned The Avenue Park in Caroline Springs will be home to a new public artwork, commissioned by Melton council. The artwork, entitled ‘Second Nature’, will be created by public artist Jade Oakley who specialises in art integrated with its surroundings. The art will centre on the theme of growth and incorporate etchings in concrete pathways around the park to lead to the playground, where there will be the main sculptural piece. The pathway artwork will be based upon drawings gathered during local community art workshops. Melton mayor Goran Kesic said the artwork will create an engaging and playful atmosphere for residents and visitors to the park. “The project aims to boost community pride in our public spaces and to reflect the stories, themes and issues that are relevant to our residents,” Cr Kesic said. “I’m confident that the artwork will not only be visually appealing, but that it will become a landmark in its own right.” Ms Oakley was commissioned to do the artwork by Melton council’s Public Arts Sub-Committee, with support from public art consultant T-Projects, through a competitive selection process. More details about the sculpture will be revealed in the lead up to installation around October. Residents are invited to meet the artist and speak to project representatives during a free drop-in art workshop on June 8 at The Avenue Park in Caroline Springs.

Councillors Bob Turner, Sophie Ramsey, Goran Kesic and Julie Shannon with Stockland’s’ Ed Krushka at the sod turn for the new road. (Supplied)

Sod turned on new road By Olivia Condous Melton residents will benefit from a new road, called Grand Boulevard, expected to be completed mid-next year. Stockland property group committed $10 million in funding for the single carriageway road, to be located in Truganina, as part of the Mt Atkinson and Tarneit Plains Infrastructure Contributions Plan. The 1.7 kilometre road will run between Mt Atkinson and Grandview residential estates in Melton, in order to improve commuting and road safety for residents and community groups in the area.Residents travelling to and

from the Edmund Rice Community Centre, Rockbank, the Western Freeway and Hopkins Road will benefit from the new infrastructure. Stockland representatives joined Melton councillors on Thursday for a sod turn to mark the beginning of construction. Melton mayor Goran Kesic said the road will be a welcome addition for the area. “Road improvements are high on Melton City Council’s agenda and we welcome the commitment from Stockland to bring the Truganina community an improved roadway, The Grand Boulevard carriageway is set to improve safety and travel for residents and visitors alike and we look forward to seeing

construction progress.” Stockland project director Ed Krushka said the new road would help to meet increasing transport demands in the area. “With the western growth corridor rapidly expanding and more than 267,000 people moving to the area since 2010, this vital piece of infrastructure will meet the needs of the growing Mt Atkinson community,” Mr Krushka said. “The new road will help to improve travel times; access to work, recreation, services and safety that will benefit our current and prospective residents, as well as the wider community.”

We’re building big in Sunbury and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re upgrading the Sunbury Line and removing the Gap Road level crossing. We’re also upgrading Sunbury Road, reducing congestion and making it easier to get around. Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions

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Tuesday, 24 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 7

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West tunes up for musical feast In the multicultural communities that make up much of Melbourne’s western suburbs, music and the arts are important parts of life that bring people together, as Olivia Condous discovers.

spiring artists and residents of Melton are being invited to celebrate multiculturalism and music through a new and exciting event and workshop series, with local producers leading the way. Melton will have its own music and dance mini-festival called WESTSIDE on May 29, celebrating artists of colour and connecting the whole community through music.

‘‘

Our work is about shining the light on artists from culturally diverse communities - Oscar Jimenez

’’

The festival is part of an events program called NEWPRINT, created by Multicultural Arts Victoria (MAV), a not-for-profit organisation that champions culturally diverse artists and communities. The program is designed to support young artists of colour in outer-metropolitan and regional areas by engaging artists from different communities to throw events showcasing diverse talent. MAV music projects officer Oscar Jimenez said the NEWPRINT program gave local producers the tools to build networks within their own localities. “The idea was to support some of the young artists and producers living in regional areas that might need a little bit of support developing a local music scene,” Mr Jimenez said. “Our work is about shining the light on artists from culturally diverse communities, who

Multicultural Arts Victoria are running music events for youth. Pookie and Deng Tèbir are the producers of the Melton events. (Damjan Janevski) 280866_06

have even less opportunities than other artists and producers from other communities.” Acol Agaar Apollo, also known as Pookie, and Deng Tèbir are the two artists curating the program in Melton and both have a strong connection to the local community. Tèbir grew up in western suburbs of Melbourne after moving from Yemen with his

family, and has lived in Melton for the past five years, producing work as a singer, songwriter and dancer. “I love it out here, love it out here,” Tèbir said of the Melton community. Pookie is a South Sudanese performer who spent four years living in Melton, and now works as a rap recording artist, songwriter,

composer and producer. The pair cite their major artist influences as hip-hop giants like Missy Elliot and T-Pain, but family was where both of their musical journeys began. “My brother’s the one who really introduced me to music, with East African music, dance hall and hip hop,” Pookie said. Her musical stylings were originally influenced by the drum beats of the traditional ‘loor’ gatherings of the local Sudanese community, filled with music and dance, while she was growing up in Australia. Tèbir was originally introduced to the world of performing arts through street-style dance, busking around Melbourne as a teenager, before moving into creating his own music. “I grew up in a household full of musicians, my mum’s a singer and my dad was a singer … it was always there for me growing up,” he said. Both are rising artists in the Melbourne music scene, with Tèbir releasing a music video for his latest single ‘Better Man’ earlier this month and Pookie releasing her first full-length album ‘FLick’ last year. Pookie and Tèbir agreed their main goal for the WESTSIDE event was to bring the whole Melton community together through the common connection of music. “Integration is really important, having lived in Melton, it is a very diverse community but I think there’s still separation in terms of like the wider community,” Pookie said. “So I think it’d be really nice to bring everybody together and music is a really good way to do that.” Tèbir added: “Music is a universal language”.

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BEHIND THE NEWS

WESTSIDE headlining performer JAG is a rock n’ soul, blues and funk artist of Sudanese heritage. The festival will also feature performers Soli (centre) and NOMAD (right).

The festival event will feature a jam-packed lineup of artists from across the country, including JAG, Soli, NOMAD, Dyspora, Rara Zulu, Lay, Malesh + Flexx, Achai, DJ Sovblkpssy plus local SC (Staughton College) dance crew. Headlining performer JAG is a rock n’ soul, blues and funk artist of Sudanese heritage, whose music is inspired by the likes of Tina Turner and Jimi Hendrix. Pookie said she was excited for the festival event as it provided Melton locals with the chance to experience diverse artists from all over the world performing a range of styles. “For me, my experience of [the music scene in Melton] hasn’t been very diverse,” she said. “We just want to make sure everybody feels safe and comfortable … and important.” Pookie and Tèbir will also run a three-part mentoring workshop series, sharing industry skills and knowledge with local young talent,

culminating in a showcase concert event on June 18. Tèbir said he’d witnessed the talent of Melton youth first-hand as a staff member at a local secondary school. “It’d be really awesome just to have a lot more life happening down here, just bring a bit more live music to the scene and hopefully encourage some of the younger people to step into it a lot more, because there is so much talent out here,” Tèbir said. “We have good knowledge on how to release music and how to approach the music scene in Australia … for us to pass that experience on to some of the younger kids will be really cool.” MAV creative producer James Mckinnon said the NEWPRINT program was designed to empower the artists, audiences and local producers alike. “It’s really giving the power to all the people involved to create an event that is for

community by community,” he said, “It’s really exciting and that’s what MAV is trying to do, is empower and allow for the self determination of those artists and audiences.” Mr Jimenez said the organisation felt there were systemic barriers that hindered young artists who wanted to put on local events and hoped that the council would assist with easing these difficulties. “There’s so many permits and processes that you have to go through to get a live event happening,” he said. “We hope that the council gets more involved in the future, even with sponsoring these events.” Pookie said she hoped the events and workshops in Melton would help local artists to connect with each other and build their own local networks. “It’ll be really great to do this event because … opening spaces like that up, also gives other

(Pictures: Supplied)

people the opportunity to meet like-minded people,” Pookie said. “The possibilities are endless when it comes to music.” Tèbir said he hoped to provide role models for young aspiring artists through the NEWPRINT program. “When I was younger, I looked up to a lot of local musician s… and they inspired me, because I was like, ‘If they can do it, then I can definitely do it,” he said, “It’s giving these kids that image as well, so we can show them that, ‘you could do this as well and be really awesome’.” WESTSIDE festival will be held at Melton Community Hall on Sunday, May 29 from 1.30pm. Details: https://mav.org.au/events/ newprint-westside.

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Tuesday, 24 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 9

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24 May 2022

Mayor’s message Cr Goran Kesic

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

Hub for health, education, jobs and cultural services at Cobblebank A new purpose-built hub that will provide a central space for City of Melton residents to access a range of community, allied health, education, employment, and culturally specific services will begin construction in 2023. Located in the heart of the Cobblebank Metropolitan Activity Centre, this hub will help address the gaps in health and

community services by providing an accessible and affordable central space to deliver services. We’re inviting expressions of interest from community service organisations interested in becoming tenants of the new hub. Space will be available at reduced commercial rate for a range of community, allied health and

education services. To find out more about what our Cobblebank Community Services Hub will deliver for residents, or to register your interest as a service provider, visit cobblebankcsh.com.au Expressions of interest close on Friday 17 June.

We’re conducting phone surveys

Strategy to create more learning opportunities

Selected City of Melton residents will be asked to participate in a survey measuring community satisfaction with Council services and facilities. The survey involves phone interviews with 800 randomly selected residents from across the municipality from Saturday 28 May until Monday 27 June. Find out more at melton.vic.gov.au/ satisfactionsurvey

We’re developing a new Learning Strategy and we need your input. We want to inspire learning in families, communities and for people of all life stages by developing educational opportunities that are inclusive and tailored to the needs of individuals. Complete our online survey at conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/ learningstrategy or attend an in-person or online community workshop taking place in June, and you can go in the draw to win one of five $100 vouchers to a local business.

Coburn Ward with Cr Julie Shannon It’s been a busy time in the City of Melton, and I’ve enjoyed some wonderful opportunities to meet local residents and business operators, and learn about some of the exciting things happening across our city. Last week, I had the pleasure of joining our CEO and Mayor on a tour of Eynesbury to learn about tourism initiatives planned for this community. Of course, I can’t say too much just yet, but I can assure residents that the events and attractions planned will not only make this township an even nicer place to call home, but will cement

Eynesbury as a tourist destination everyone can enjoy. At this week’s council briefing, officers presented a report responding to my Notice of Motion from last October, about the impacts of COVID-19 on homelessness in the City of Melton. The issue of homelessness is something that I’m very passionate about and I’m now looking forward to seeing how Council can engage with key stakeholders to advocate for more local resources and address homelessness in the City of Melton. Finally, I am thrilled that Council is

participating in a pilot project aimed at improving how social infrastructure – including education, health, and recreational facilities – is planned and delivered in growth areas, such as ours. This is an exciting project which will lead to the more efficient delivery of state, regional and local social infrastructure. Feel free to contact me regarding Coburn Ward or Council related issues on 0499 801 302; email: Julie.shannon@melton.vic.gov.au or like my Facebook page @julieshannonformelton

Local volunteers give so much to help make the City of Melton such a fantastic place to live, and, together with my fellow Councillors, I was pleased to recognise this great work during National Volunteer Week. I’m humbled by the generosity of local volunteers and would like to again say thank you for your work. I’m excited to tell you about a new hub that will help meet critical community needs for services in allied health, education, employment and more. We’ll start building the Cobblebank Community Services Hub next year, and it will play an important role in addressing gaps in health and community services. It’s about making these services accessible to everyone, by having them available locally, and in a place that people can reach on public transport too, being a short walk from the Cobblebank Train Station. I look forward to sharing more details about this project as it progresses. In the meantime, service providers can register their interest until 17 June at cobblebankcsh.com.au Speaking of critical services, from September, we’ll welcome the Orange Door to the City of Melton – a vital, free service for anyone who has experienced family violence. It brings together workers from specialist family violence, child and family services, and Aboriginal services to provide a coordinated network of specialist support services. It’s funded by the State Government and I’m grateful that they will bring it to our community at the Western BACE in Cobblebank. Please feel free to contact me on 0437 241 436 or goran.kesic@melton.vic.gov.au regarding any Council issues.

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

Mayor Cr Goran Kesic

Deputy Mayor Cr Lara Carli

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Moira Deeming

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all 10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 May, 2022

Cr Kathy Majdlik

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Celebrating inclusion 2

The Melton Salvation Army Children and Parenting Support Service (CAPSS) hosted an afternoon tea event to celebrate IDAHOBIT in Melton. IDAHOBIT is the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia is marked annually on May 17. The event was held at CAPSS Melton’s new home in Melton South and included hand-print painting as well as many other colourful craft activities. CAPSS hold many inclusive activities and events to support local parents and children. Details: https://www.facebook.com/ capssmeltonwyndham/

12544962-AV15-22

1/ Salvation Army CAPSS staff members Shaun Tonkes, Jocelyn Gemoh, Charmaine Hamilton, Greg Bracey, Alex Forster-Brown and Catherine O’Connor. 2/ Kaden Dickson and Luis Montero. 3/ Tammy Norgren and Kaz Ford. 4/ Nestai Mari, Chi Buititi, Poulamw Guha and Rebeka Sharmin. 5/ Ellie Vermont and CAPSS staff member Alex Forster-Brown. 6/ Plenty of smiles all round at the CAPSS IDAHOBIT afternoon tea. 7/ Volunteer Michelle Hobbs. 8/ Angie Alfonso writing a message of support for the tree. (Pictures: Olivia Condous)

Tuesday, 24 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

FEATURING ... EDUCATION

Advertising feature

Principal Marlene Jorgensen is excited to welcome students to the new Catholic Regional College Melton campus in Cobblebank in 2023. (Supplied)

A new chapter begins at Catholic Regional College It’s an exciting time to join the Catholic Regional College Melton community with major developments under way and a new name – St Francis Catholic College – launching in 2023. Also scheduled for the start of the new school year is the opening of the college’s second campus in Cobblebank, which will cater for up to 200 year 7 students in its first year and grow to accommodate 1500 year 7-12 students by 2028.

Principal Marlene Jorgensen said the new campus would enable the college to offer even more students a high-quality Catholic secondary education, for which the school is renowned. “Throughout this period of significant growth, our commitment to nurture the faith development of students, focus on their individual needs and strive to develop their academic potential remains as strong as it has for more than 40 years,” Mrs Jorgensen

says. “Our year 7-12 Melton West campus, with its exceptional facilities and secondary pathways, is the foundation upon which our new Cobblebank campus will be modelled.” Catholic Regional College Melton’s mission is to nurture each individual’s personal, spiritual, social, physical, and academic growth in a community of faith. “We want to develop our young people to become successful lifelong learners,

confident and creative individuals and active, informed citizens,” Mrs Jorgensenn says. Although its Cobblebank campus is still under construction, families are welcome and encouraged to tour the year 7 to 12 Melton West campus to see students and staff at work and gain an overview of the College’s facilities and programs. For more information visit www.crcmelton.com.au.

Catholic Regional College Melton

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www.crcmelton.com.au 12550753-SN21-22

12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 May, 2022

FEATURING ... EDUCATION

Advertising feature

It’s never too early to enrol your child. The Geelong College recommends enrolling at least five years before your preferred year of entry.

(Pictures: Supplied)

Enrol at The Geelong College for a rounded education With unprecedented growth in the Geelong, Surf Coast and Bellarine region, places at The Geelong College, as well as other schools, are becoming more difficult to find. “Even though school, or for some families, secondary school might seem a long way off, the time to enrol your child is now, so that you are able to secure a place at a school of your choice,” The Geelong College principal, Dr Peter Miller, says. “At The Geelong College, we have significant waitlists at almost all year levels for 2023 and

2024, and demand continues to be high for the years beyond that. “It is a privilege for us to serve the Geelong community, and to see such high demand for our school instills a sense of pride, but it does bring with it disappointment for some as there are a finite number of positions available.” The Geelong College now recommends enrolling at least five years before your preferred year of entry, so at birth or soon after for early learning and foundation, or year 1 for year 7 entry. The school understands that for families

moving to the area, or for boarding families, this may not be possible and will endeavour to assist with places where possible. Enrollment applications are processed in date order approximately two years prior to the entry year, with current siblings and the children of Old Collegians receiving priority. The college’s award-winning junior school, which opened in 2020, has allowed an increased intake numbers from early learning to year 3. If you are considering a Geelong College

education for your child, the school encourages you to consider enrolling in the junior school where, for 2023 and beyond, there are limited places available. Visit the school for an open day to experience The Geelong College difference. The Geelong College is located at 20 Talbot Street, Newtown. For more information, phone (03) 5226 3111 or visit www.tgc.vic.edu.au

Discover The Geelong College difference at our Open Days on Wednesday 20 July and 19 October. Register or explore more dates at www.tgc.vic.edu.au or phone 5226 3156. The Geelong College, a leading Victorian day and boarding school from Early Learning to VCE.

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Prevent home and vehicle theft By Joanne Mutsaerts, Melton Police With the removal of COVID restrictions, a lot of people have returned to work and are away from their residences making our homes and vehicles attractive targets for thieves. Local police are regularly patrolling known hotspots and targeting offenders, however everyone in the community has a role to play when it comes to making our homes, workplaces, and neighbourhoods safe. This type of offending is often opportunistic, with thieves entering homes through unlocked doors and windows to steal items, including car keys. There are a few simple measures the community can take to help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of burglary, such as locking all windows and doors, as unlocked side and rear doors are the most common entry point for burglars. Residents should also install good quality locks on doors and windows. Other preventative measures include ensuring garage doors and internal access to the house and backyard are locked, installing an alarm system or CCTV and locking mailboxes to prevent theft of mail and personal documents. Your neighbourhood also plays an important role in preventing crime, so we encourage residents to get to know your neighbours as they may recognise some unusual activity when you’re not home. There are also several simple steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of vehicle-related theft, such as always locking the car, even when parking at home in the driveway or garage. It’s important to also secure vehicle keys and never leave them in

Melton police are reminding people to always lock their vehicle. (iStock)

your car and park in well-lit and secure areas if possible. Avoid leaving valuable items, including tools, in your vehicle. Trades people should lock their vehicles and secure their tools even when they’re on a building site. It is important to report all crime or suspicious activity at the earliest opportunity

to ensure police are given the best opportunity to locate offenders, recover stolen property and keep everyone safe. If the incident is currently in progress or has just occurred, where you need Police, find a safe place and call triple -0(000) Remember, the safety of yourself and others is more important than trying to

prevent a crime. You can now report non-urgent crime via the Police Assistance Line – 131 444 or use the online reporting method by visiting www. police.vic.gov.au. To report suspicious activity or to make an anonymous report with information about criminal activity, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic. com.au. Victoria Police has a Residential Crime Prevention Information Kit available on our website, at police.vic.gov.au/ home-and-property. Melton Police and Melton City Council and Neighbourhood Watch Victoria are holding five free community information evenings. This will be an opportunity for the community to hear from local police and Neighbourhood Watch about home security, personal safety and vehicle security. We encourage those in the community who are interested in this to come along. Each event will run from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at various local community centres on the following dates: • Arnolds Creek Children’s and Community Centre – Wednesday, June 1 • Bridge Road Community Centre – Tuesday, June 7 • Fraser Rise Children’s & Community Centre – Wednesday, June 5 • Eynesbury Discovery Centre – Tuesday, July 12 • Bridge Road Community Centre – Tuesday, July 19 For more information please visit www.facebook.com/eyewatchmelton

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Find the Facebook group for more details.

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

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. ■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817 or Ros at the library.

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. Cost: Food Handlers – $65/$60concession, Food Safety Supervisor – $90/$85 concession. ■ 9747 8576

Melton Friendship Group.

Bowler Rebekah Commane is in the running to be selected to represent Australia at the World Games in the United States in July. (Damjan Janevski) 281675_01

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

Botanic Gardens Day

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club

Friends of Melton Botanic Garden are hosting a fun-filled event at the Melton Botanic Garden, 10am-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.

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 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 14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 May, 2022

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. It rehearses Tuesday from 7.30pm, 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine. ■ Andrew, 0419 444 620

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, 9am-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.

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

Property news

Can’t do 20 per cent? Consider alternatives for deposit First home buyers may be feeling despondent about their capacity to purchase a property – it’s well known that buyers generally need a 20 per cent deposit before they can make a move. However, with metropolitan Melbourne’s median house price sitting at $1.12 million (Real Estate Institute of Victoria), this is seeming less and less possible especially as interest rates continue to rise. While it may still be considered the gold standard, a 20 per cent deposit is no longer necessary to buy a first property, and reducing your deposit goal could see you get into the market sooner. Just remember that the smaller the deposit, the more interest you’ll pay over the life of the loan. Here are some of the different ways you could get into your first property with a lower deposit. -Using a third party finance provider: One option for buyers wanting to secure their future home sooner rather than later could be to use a third-party finance provider. A relatively new addition to the Australian market, these include companies such as FrontYa, OwnHome and Coposit. Each works in a different way and suits different buyers. Coposit, designed for buyers interested in new build apartment projects either under construction or yet to commence, allows buyers to use their app to secure a property with just $10,000. Buyers then spend the period between the deposit and settlement making weekly payments to complete their deposit. Instead of charging the user, Coposit receives a commission from developers. -Get a regular loan: 20 per cent might

There are a variety of options when is comes to securing your first home. (iStock)

be the standard, but many banks offer loan products covering up to 95 per cent of a property’s purchase. How much a bank will lend is known as the loan to value ratio, or LVR. While it may let you get into the market sooner, going with this more traditional route will have you on the hook for lenders mortgage insurance, or LMI. This is an insurance policy required by banks to protect them against the risk of a higher loan to value ratio, and could cost you thousands more across the life of the loan. Government schemes: first home buyers wanting to get into the market

with a lower deposit could be eligible for a place in the federal government’s First Home Loan Deposit Scheme. This scheme allows buyers earning less than $125,000 as a single or $200,000 as a couple to purchase with a deposit as low as 5 per cent. Your loan will still be with a bank, but unlike when you go directly to them, you won’t be liable for lenders mortgage insurance - that’s because the government acts as the guarantor for the loan, reducing the risk for lenders. The downside of this scheme has typically been that it’s hard to get a place - previous offerings have

been oversubscribed. But the federal government has just announced an expansion of the scheme, including a dedicated program called the Regional Home Guarantee which dedicates 10,000 places to regional buyers buying a new home. The federal opposition has announced a similar scheme. The government’s guarantee can be used in conjunction with state government home buyer incentives, like new home grants, to further boost your deposit.

Originally published on www.realestateview. com.au by Jack Needham.

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Tuesday, 24 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15

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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.

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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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16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 May, 2022

PUZZLES Foot cover (5) Impartial (9) Break off a small piece (7) The price to be paid when we fly (7) Romance language (7) Assay (7) Medical application (9) Vexes (4) Uncertain (inf) (4) Least sufficient (9) Pressurised dispenser (7) Raise (7) Tableland (7) Process of sending something (7) Gluttony or sloth for instance (6,3) Common Indian surname (5)

easy

2 2 6

4 9

8 3 2

3 6

5 7 hard

7 2

1 4

8 5

6 7

9 3

10 11 12 13

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

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Q E G Z V S A XMR Y OU 23

1 9 5 4 8 3 7 6 2

6 5 3 2 7 1 4 9 8

7 2 9 3 4 8 6 5 1

8 4 1 6 5 9 7 3 2

1 3 6 4 8 2 5 7 9

Today’s Aim: 18 words: Good 27 words: Very good

No. 082 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

L A S M

P I T C H A D O R E M O G U L

$ / 3 + $

% / ( $ 7

6 & $ 5 )

3 $ / ( 5

$ 7 2 1 (

4 LETTERS CHUM DABS EASY EELS HURL IMPS OILS OPEN SAGE SEES SEWS SHAM SPAS WAGE 5 LETTERS ACORN ADOPT

6 6 , 2 5 1 $ $ 7 6 $ 6 6 $ . 5 , , 1 $ 6 6 6 1 ( ( : 7 6

: $ ) 7 6 $ / / 2 7 * / $ 5 ( 3 ( 6 7 $ ( & + , 0 7 & + ( / + 8 5 / + $ 0 $ % ( 5 5 6 0 $ 2 , , 0 3 6 + 5 ( ( . 8 5 % $ 1 + 2 2 6 ( % 5 8 7 ( ( 1 5 2 / 6 ( ( 3 6

GLARE GLASS GRAPE GRATE LADES LANES OMEGA PALER RADIO RENEW RESTS ROBES ROOFS SAGER SATIN SCARF SEEPS SHOOS SKINS SLYLY SPADE STATE

6 $ * ( 5 $ * 5 ( ( * ( $ 5 6 7 ( 7 , 7 ( 6 ( ( 6 $ & 7 5 2 2 ) 6 1 2 5 0 $ / , & . ( 7 < / 6 * ( / ( $ 6 < , 1 * / ( * $ / 6 . ( & $ 3 ' 2 2 1 $ ( 5 5 ( ' ' ( 1 6 (

STEAM STORK URBAN WAFTS

RICKETY SATCHEL SPEAKER 8 LETTERS ABNORMAL AIRBORNE CHARISMA TORTILLA

6 LETTERS ESTATE LEGALS NEEDED SONATA 7 LETTERS FLASHER MEASURE REEKING

27-05-22

S E

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

4 7 2 5 9 3 8 1 6

2 6 7 1 3 4 9 8 5

3 9 4 8 6 5 1 2 7

9 3 1 4 7 6 5 8 2

5 1 9 7 4 3 2 6 8

6 8 4 1 9 2 7 5 3

autism, auto, must, opium, opus, oust, ousts, outs, pious, possum, POTASSIUM, pout, pouts, puma, puss, puts, situs, smut, smuts, soup, sous, spout, spouts, sputa, stoup, stump, stumps, suit, suits, sumo, sump, sumps, sums, sups, upmost, utopia

9 8 5 7 1 6 2 4 3

4 6 8 5 2 9 1 3 7

H R

7 4 2 5 6 9 8 1 3

8 3 6 2 7 1 5 9 4

9 6 4 7 2 5 3 8 1

7 2 3 6 5 8 9 4 1

3 5 2 9 6 7 8 1 4

8 4 7 3 1 5 6 2 9

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”.

36 words: Excellent

5 7 3 6 1 8 4 2 9

2 8 1 9 3 4 6 7 5

3 5 7 8 9 2 1 4 6

4 2 8 1 5 6 9 3 7

6 1 9 3 4 7 2 5 8

1 9 6 2 8 4 3 7 5

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

medium

easy

9-LETTER WORD

hard

5x5

6 8

6 3

' , 6 & 6

ADORN AGREE ALLOT ALONE ALPHA ARIAS ATONE BLEAT BRISK BRUTE CHARM CHIME CROCS DENSE DISCS DOONA EERIE ENROL ERRED FATES FRETS GEARS

J ND L F T C H I WB P K

1 6

$ ' 2 3 7

QUICK QUIZ

What do you call the separating and purifying of large biological molecules, such as proteins and DNA?

Who made their big-screen debut as Boo Radley in To Kill a Mockingbird?

Who was Tony Curtis’ first wife?

Gary Lightbody, Paul Wilson and Jonny Quinn are members of which band formed in Dundee, Scotland?

Liechtenstein is bordered to the east by which country?

The Gippsland giant earthworm can grow to how many feet in length: a) 6 b) 8 c) 10 d) 12?

What is a baby alpaca, llama (pictured), vicuna or guanaco called?

Francisco De Orellana was the first European to explore the course of which major river?

What is located at 11 Wall Street, Manhattan, New York, US?

10 In which Australian state would you find Marrawah surfing beach? ANSWERS: 1. Electrophoresis 2. Robert Duvall 3. Janet Leigh 4. Snow Patrol 5. Austria 6. c) 10 7. Cria 8. Amazon 9. The New York Stock Exchange 10. Tasmania

/ $ ' ( 6

3 ( 7

* 5 $ 3 (

$ ' 2 3 7

7 5

3 LETTERS ACT AGE ALL APE ASH ASS CAP CAT EGG EKE GEL HES HUH ILK ILL NET NIL ORE PEP PET SIR TEA TIT TOP

No. 082

/ $ ' ( 6

WORDFIT

* 5 $ 3 (

No. 082

6 $ * 7 ( ( $ & 5 1 2 , & / 6

DECODER

) / $ 6 + ( 5

9 3

5 1

Room where a priest prepares for service (8)

+ ( 6

1 9

DOWN 1

% / ( $ 7

6 7

$ / 3 + $

medium

' , 6 & 6

9 1 8 7 7 8 4 6 9 8 4 1 5 6 7

$ * ( 5 * 5 ( ( ( $ 5 6 7 , 7 6 ( ( 6 7 2 2 ) 6 5 0 $ / . ( 7 < * ( / ( $ 6 < * * $ / 6 & $ 3 2 2 1 $ 5 5 ( ' ( 1 6 (

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3 6

14 15 16 18 20 21 23 24

: $ $ / * / ( & & + + 8 $ 0 5 0 $ , 5 % 2 5 1 (

1 8 9 8 1

5 6 7 8

+ 8 5 + 2 % ( 6

2 8 5

6 6 , 2 5 1 $ $ 7 6 $ 6 6 $ . 5 , , 1 $ 6 6 6 1 ( ( : 7 6

7 8 9 3

11 12 13 15 17 19 22 25 26 27

A region’s weather (7) Use of false but clever arguments (9) Puts something in risk of harm (9) Custom (5) Earth in Latin (5) Sailing as recreation (7) Number of players in a cricket team (6) Dealer (9) Power cells (9) Force (8) Italian city (7) Dodging (7) Charted (6) Odour (5) French king also known as The Sun King (5)

2 3

ACROSS 1 4 9 10

No. 082

$ 7 2 1 (

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

3 $ / ( 5

No. 082

6 & $ 5 )

SUDOKU

Tuesday, 24 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

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ADVERTISE

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which former Australian golfer is facing intense backlash due to his Saudi Arabian-backed golf tournament?

13. The South Australiabased Barossa Rams play which sport?

4. 40-year-old Roger Federer last won a Grand Slam tennis tournament in which year?

14. Trent Barrett last coached which NRL club?

5. Former Manchester United forward Dwight Yorke has been named the head coach of which A-League Men team?

2. Who is GWS’s interim coach for the rest of the season following Leon Cameron’s departure? 3. Which former Kiwi cricketer has been named England’s new Test cricket coach?

Marcus Smart

15. At which ground were all games of the 2022 NRL Magic Round played?

6. Eleni Glouftsis is the AFL competition’s only female what?

16. Teenager Jake Daniels last played for which English Football League Championship club?

7. The acclaimed 2011 film Moneyball, starring Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill, focuses on which sport?

17. Carson Wentz is a quarterback for which NFL team? 18. Ashleigh Brazill plays for which AFLW and Super Netball clubs?

8. Former Australian cricketer Andrew Symonds played how many Test matches for Australia?

24. What city is home to the stadium known as Manuka Oval?

19. The team representing Netball Western Australia in the Australian Netball League is known by what name?

9. In which year was the famous Monaco Grand Prix motor race first held? 10. Which 20-year-old Polish female tennis player is currently ranked number one in the WTA rankings?

21. Australian cricket coach Matthew Mott was recently confirmed as the white ball coach for which country?

26. What city played host to the Australian Swimming Championships? 27. How many minutes long are the rounds in UFC fights? 28. Which former NRL player and boxer recently offered his services as consultant to the Canterbury Bulldogs?

22. Boston Celtics player Marcus Smart won which NBA Award in the 2021-22 season?

12. Which two NBA teams are competing in the Eastern Conference Finals?

29. The netball teams Melbourne Phoenix and Melbourne Kestrels were merged in 2007 to form which current Super Netball team? 30. Which NBA team won the right to pick first in the 2022 Draft?

25. In what month is the upcoming 2022 AFLW season rumoured to be kicking off?

20. Curtis Scott last played for which NRL club?

11. Which two NBA teams are competing in the Western Conference Finals?

Roger Federer

23. James Hird recently joined the coaching staff of which AFL team?

1. Greg Norman 2. Mark McVeigh 3. Brendon McCullum 4. 2018 5. Macarthur FC 6. Field umpire 7. Baseball 8. 26 9. 1929 10. Iga Swiatek 11. Golden State Warriors, and Dallas Mavericks 12. Miami Heat, and Boston Celtics 13. Rugby union 14. Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs 15. Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane 16. Blackpool 17. Washington Commanders 18. Collingwood and Collingwood Magpies 19. Western Sting 20. Canberra Raiders 21. England 22. Defensive Player of the Year 23. GWS Giants 24. Canberra 25. August 26. Adelaide 27. Five minutes 28. Anthony Mundine 29. Melbourne Vixens 30. Orlando Magic

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MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Haval drives into electric future

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

AT A GLANCE

Chinese manufacturer, Great Wall Motors, has joined the electrification movement with the release of a petrol/ electric hybrid version of its Haval H6 mid-sized SUV. It comes to Australia in a single variant based on the top-spec petrol Ultra model with a high level of safety equipment and technology, priced very-competitively at $44,990 driveaway.

MODEL RANGE H6 2.0 Premium 2WD: $32,990 H6 2.0 Lux 2WD: $35,990 H6 2.0 Ultra 2WD: $38,990 H6 2.0 Vanta 2WD: $39,990 H6 1.5 Hybrid Ultra 2WD: $45,990 H6 2.0 Ultra AWD: $41,990

Styling The H6 Hybrid has a distinctly different frontal styling than the other models in the range and, to our eyes at least, it makes a significant difference. Two body-coloured side panels extend the grille to the edge of the vehicle smoothing out the boxiness of the other models. There are twin rectangular LED headlights wrapping around the front with LED daytime running lights and LED foglights below the grille. The rear features a large lighting panel which spans the entire width of the vehicle. Twin brake lights sit at the top of the rear hatch window. Given that it’s still a relatively new brand, rather than using a badge that most people wouldn’t recognize the designers have placed the H-A-V-A-L name in large, bold letters at the front and rear. Being based on the H6 Ultra spec, the Hybrid gets 19-inch alloy wheels as well as a panoramic sunroof. There are seven exterior colour choices, Hamilton White is standard, the other six are $495 options.

Interior It’s hard to fault anything inside the H6 Hybrid Ultra with a nice feeling of quality throughout. There’s plenty of space all around, the Comfortek front leather seats are heated and ventilated with the driver having an 8-way power adjustment, heated leather steering wheel and a head-up display. There’s good storage space with adjustable twin drink holders and a large storage bin in the centre console. There’s dual-zone air conditioning which, together with a flat rear floor, good foot, leg and headroom, and the panoramic sunroof make for a pleasant environment for rear passengers. There’s a centre armrest with two cupholders and air vents. 20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 May, 2022

H6 2.0 Vanta AWD: $42,990 The H6 Hybrid is Haval’s best offering yet.

(Pictures: Supplied)

At the back there’s a powered tailgate which opens out to a 600-litre boot, expandable to 1485 litres with the rear seatbacks folded. The batteries are located beneath the false floor taking up the space where a spare wheel would otherwise be stores leaving a puncture repair kit as the only option.

Powertrain The quest for lower fuel consumption isn’t just limited to the benefits of the battery-powered motor. Unlike the naturally-aspirated petrol engines in the rest of the H6 range, the Hybrid combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine and a two-speed 130 kW electric drive motor. The engine has outputs of 110 kW and 230 Nm while the battery adds 130 kW and 300 Nm to provide a combined total of 179 kW and 530 Nm. The two systems work together smoothly with the battery providing instant torque at take-off and the turbocharger kicking in at higher revs. While the petrol-only H6 Ultra comes with all-wheel drive the hybrid version is driven through the front wheels. Power is sent to the front wheels through GWM’s two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission electronically controlled transmission with two separate DVTs that work together.

Safety The Haval H6 Hybrid comes with an impressive suite of safety features that have contributed to it getting the maximum 5-Star ANCAP rating. There are seven airbags; enhanced ABS brakes with brake assist, cornering brake control and brake override; roll movement

intervention; hill descent and hill-start control; front and rear parking assist; high resolution rear view and 360-degree cameras; automatic parking; adaptive cruise control with stop and go; intelligent cornering control; rear cross traffic alert and braking; forward collision warning and secondary collision mitigation; lane departure warning and correction; autonomous emergency braking including pedestrian, bicycle & crossroads; traffic sign recognition; blind spot detection; rear collision warning; driver drowsiness detection; and two IsoFix child seat anchors.

Infotainment Access is through two large colour displays, a centrally-mounted 12.3-inch touchscreen for the infotainment features and a 10.25-inch instrument cluster behind the steering wheel for driving data. The absence of raised physical controls for the most commonly-used features such as audio system and air conditioning meaning a series of taps on the screen for adjusting sound. However, it can be adjusted through controls on the steering wheel. As is the growing trend, there is no embedded satellite navigation so access needs to be made through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (both wired) or direct from the smartphone via Bluetooth. There is a wireless smartphone charging on the front console. There are five USB ports, three in the front and two at the rear.

Driving Haval H6 is at the larger end of its segment and entry is quite easy. While the seats are adjustable

Note: These are driveaway prices and include all dealer delivery and government charges.

in most directions the base can’t be tilted and we found them a little uncomfortable. Take-off is by battery only with the instant acceleration that we love. The engine kicks in around 30 km/h and fluctuates between the two modes for optimum efficiency. The combination of the smaller turbo engine and battery means that the H6 Hybrid cruises quietly. Brake regeneration can be adjusted and monitored on the driver’s display. Out in the rural segment of our teat route the H6 Hybrid provides a surprisingly enjoyable drive with plenty of punch when needed. The ride was a bit spongy at times and handling was typical of most SUVs. Fuel consumption is listed at 5.2 litres per 100km, we average just under 6.0 L/100 km during our test. H6 Hybrid only comes with front wheel-drive and there’s a modest 170 mm ground clearance. So not suited to any serious off-road ventures.

Summing up Haval and GWM have come a long way in recent years and, in our opinion, the H6 Hybrid is their best vehicle yet. It has a premium feel that hasn’t been there before and it could easily be mistaken for one of its big-selling, and more expensive, Japanese or Korean rivals. It’s an attractive vehicle and, at just under $45k driveaway, offers excellent value. As with all Havals the H6 Hybrid comes with a seven-year / unlimited kilometre warranty. Stock availability is currently playing an important part in buyer decisions with delays of up to a year not unusual. Haval tells us that you could get into a new H6 Hybrid within three months.

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Treachery a star in her own right after big win She’s lived in the shadow of some more high-profile stablemates through the early part of her career, but Treachery showed she is a star in her own right with a brilliant win in Saturday night’s Allied Express Richmond Lass. The Emma Stewart-trained pacer chased home a string of top rivals through her days as a two and three-year-old, with the likes of Ladies In Red and Tough Tilly among the same crop of fillies. However, she appears to have gone to a new level as a mare in season 2022, with a sizzling first-up success at Melton on May 7 backed up by a super display in the Group 3 feature at the same track a fortnight later. Driver Mark Pitt speared off the arm in search of the early lead from gate seven, but was held out by Greg Sugars and Momentslikethese (Jess Tubbs), who burrowed up from the inside to find the top. The early burn looked like it might cost Treachery a winning chance

in the $30,000 event, but she showed amazing stamina to sit parked throughout much of the 1720m journey and run past the leader in the home straight. The danger was then Dougs Babe (Geoff Webster), who had the cold sit on Momentslikethese’s back but just missed in a thrilling photo finish. In the end there was a short half-head margin to Treachery, with the mares clocking a mile rate of 1:54.7min. Pitt was full of praise for the daughter of Captaintreacherous, who he feels has come back a better horse this preparation. “She has raced some of the better mares but I’ll tell you what, this time in I think she has taken the next step and I really don’t think she’s that far off some of the better mares,” Pitt said. “Obviously she might have to be driven a little bit conservative against some of them, but I do think that she is right up there with them.”

Treachery’s win was the ninth of her career, but only the third here in Victoria with six of her triumphs coming during hit-and-run missions to South Australia. The biggest success was as a two-year-old at Globe Derby in Group 1 The Allwood and she has chased home Ladies In Red in her four other elite level appearances. Now a nine-time winner from 22 starts, Treachery’s earnings tally is up over $200,000. The other Group 3 on Saturday night’s card was the I Didnt Do It Trotters Free For All and it was the classy Ultimate Stride that prevailed. Greg Sugars and Jess Tubbs claimed the only winning doubles on the Melton card. Sugars steered the Tubbs-trained La Captain and Triple Eight to respective victories in the Alabar Vicbred Platinum Metropolitan Pace (first heat) and Prydes Easifeed Pace. Tim O’Connor

Treachery (Stuart McCormick)

Sports shorts WRFL Caroline Springs continued on its winning streak in the Western Region Football League division 1 competition on Saturday. The Lakers overcame a slow start against Sunshine, to win 14.20 (104)-6.8 (44). Brian Lake was the star of the show with eight goals in a best on ground performance. In other results, Altona beat Hoppers Crossing, Werribee Districts was too strong for the Yarraville Seddon Eagles and Spotswood beat Point Cook.

RDNL Macedon stamped itself as the premiership favourites in the Riddell District Netball League after beating Woodend-Hesket on Saturday. Two of the top sides this season, the Cats got home in a thriller, winning 35-32. The Cats sit atop the ladder, the only undefeated side. In other matches, the Western Rams beat Riddell, 55-50, Diggers Rest was too good for Lancefield, 62-42 and Melton Centrals beat Romsey, 52-39.

Western United is through to the A-League grand final. (Getty Images/Supplied)

United through to final By Tara Murray Western United is through to the A-League men’s grand final in just its third season after stunning Melbourne Victory in the second leg of the semi final on Saturday night. Victory entered Saturday night’s game with the advantage after winning the first match 1-0 earlier in the week. It would be United who would score first through Aleksandar Prijovic to level the series at 1-0. Victory hit back just before half time to level the match at 1-1 and get their noses in back in front. The second half would be all United. Goals to Prijovic, Lachie Wales, and Dylan Wenzel-Halls would seal a 4-1 win and an overall 4-2 win to earn a grand final spot. United coach John Aloisi said the moment was special for everyone involved in the club. There were some emotional scenes after the game as the players celebrated with their fans and families. “It’s huge for the club, it’s only the third season,” he said. “There’s been a lot of people putting down the club. “Some things I understand, we haven’t got a stadium and we’re still building our supporter base. “We’re on a journey. So to get there so quickly for the club is huge. “That helps the supporter base grow, and

helps people believe in what we are doing as a club.” Aloisi said as a group they were confident that they could get the job done on Saturday night despite trailing and not many people giving them a chance. He said they spoke about making sure they stayed calm and the made the most of the moments when they came their way. “We spoke about where we can hurt them, the opportunities we can create and where they can hurt you,” he said. “That was our main focus trying to remain calm in a crazy game. “The boys did well, the boys, worked, worked, and worked from day one of pre-season and it’s incredible. “They just find energy from somewhere. They want to help each other and work for each other.” Aloisi said they wanted to get a fast start to the match and then the second half, to put Victory on the back foot. He said they kept it simple going into what might have been their last half of soccer for the season. “They went 1-1 and I said to the boys remain calm and spoke about a few tactical things, nothing to dissimilar to what we were talking about before the game. “We said we will get out chances, we’re well and truly in it, stick with what we’ve been doing

all season, the result will be there for you end. Aloisi said it was pleasing to get so many clear shots on goal. He praised the work for the front four, Prijovic, Wenzel-Halls, Connor Pain and Wales. With the likes of Nikolai Topor-Stanley, Rene Krhin, Adisu Bayew and Alessandro Diamanti missing through injury, United has had to turn to its whole squad. “Jerry Skotadis hardly played all season and we put him in the last three finals games hasn’t missed a beat,” Aloisi said. “Its satisfying not only for him, but for his teammates as they see how hard he’s working every day. “Rhys [Bozinovski] late in the game… a big occasion for an 18-year-old to be thrown in like that, he has hardly played.” Personally, for Aloisi it’s the first time he has made the grand final as a coach at his third A-League club. He admits that there were times he didn’t think he would get the opportunity. “I’m just grateful the club has given me the opportunity,” he said. “I didn’t think I would get another job in Australia, I didn’t. I’m grateful for these guys as I would have had to go overseas and I was seriously considering going overseas, as my passion is coaching, I love it.” The grand final will be held on Saturday night at AAMI Park.

Ballarat NL Darley gave Redan its first loss of the Ballarat Netball League season on Saturday. The Devils opened up a led in the first quarter and were able to extend it in every quarter, winning 62-43. The Devils sit third on the ladder. Melton South remains one of two undefeated teams, after beating Bacchus Marsh. It was a low scoring start, before the Panthers found their groove, winning 48-23. Rhys Carter Coleman shot 31 goals for the Panthers, while Holly Cootee shot 15 for the Cobras.

RDFL The Mitchells’ put on a show for Diggers Rest in the Riddell District Football League on Saturday against Lancefield. Mitchell Day kicked 11 goals and Mitchell Jensen kicked 10 goals as the Burras beat the Tigers, 30.14 (194)-2.2 (14). The Burras sit second on the ladder. Meanwhile, the Western Rams lost to Riddell, 18.18 (126)-3.1 (19), and Melton Centrals lost to Romsey, 12.9 (811)-6.9 (45). FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly Tuesday, 24 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 21

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Western Jets seeking consistency Patches of play continue to hurt the Western Jets in the NAB League Boys season. The Jets have been in every game so far, but sit middle of the table with a 2-3 record. With a bye at the weekend, the Jets have the chance to reset ahead of a big second half of the season. Jets coach Robbie Chancellor said they still had some work to do. “We’ve been competitive in every game,” he said. “We’ve had chances to win every game that we have played. “There’s parts of games that have let us down. Sides are getting away from us in those periods. “We need to find a way when things aren’t going to plan, how to work through it.” Chancellor said the game against Gippsland Power, the only undefeated side, showed what they could do when they were switched on.

They went from 40 points down to in front, before eventually losing the game. Chancellor said you had to be switched on from the first whistle. “It’s even a competition this year,” he said. “You have to show up to play each week and if you’re a little bit off, it will hurt you. “You need to have consistency on the track and train strongly every session.” The Jets start to the season hasn’t been helped by playing all away games so far. They’ve played in Morwell, Tasmania, Queensland and their next match is in Ballarat. Chancellor said it hadn’t been the worst thing for the side. “We have had a bit of a tough run, but it has galvanised us,” he said. “At the end of the year we’ll have a good run of matches at the back end of the season.

What we’re going through now will pay some dividends when we are playing home matches.” While Chancellor said it was a very even side, it was co-captain Massimo D’Ambrossio Who was leading from the front. “He didn’t play on the weekend as he was playing in the young guns game,” he said. “He has been an absolute star. “He’s got a good opportunity to be picked up in the middle of the year after a number of injury setbacks and then COVID meaning he hasn’t played a lot of football.” Others to impress Chancellor include their other co-captain Jaelen Pavlidis, Jake Whybrow, Darcy Weeks and Logan Morris. The Jets this week face the Greater Western Victorian Rebels on Saturday in Ballarat. Tara Murray

Big boosts for Melton By Tara Murray Melton’s hopes to turnaround its fortunes on field in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association has received not one, but two big boosts. The Lions, who were winless in 2021-22 and had just two wins in 2020-21, have added two key pieces to the puzzle for next season. Former captain Ben MacRae has returned to the club after not playing the last two years due to family duties. Mitch Stephens returns to the club having spent the last 10 years playing premier cricket at Footscray and Essendon. He played second XI cricket at both clubs. Lions president Anthony Gale said they were excited to have secured experienced players. “Ben back into the team is massive for us,” Gale said. “We have a pretty young side and to bring in someone with a whole lot of experience is priceless. It’s terrific. “Mitch is a good signing as well. He is keen on the coaching side of things as well.” Stephens, who captained the club’s Craig Shield side in 2013, has plenty of coaching experience. He has been an assistant coach for the North West Wizards in the Youth Premier League and head coach of Essendon’s Dowling Shield side. Stephens will head up the Melton’s Lions Academy with Joel Mitchener and will also help with coaching on the senior side of things too. Gale said they were hoping to possibly add a couple more players as well to strength the side even more. “With only 11 players a side, you add in a couple of players and it changes the dynamic,” he said. “Hopefully we will get one of two other experienced players who are established from around the area in either our first XI or second XI. “We would love to have 13 to 14 to choose from each week. We have some deep talent in our juniors.” In a bonus for the Lions, their next generation of players all seem to be sticking around for another season. Gale said most would likely try their luck at premier cricket, but probably not for a couple more years. The young group is led by Jason Hibbert, who won the club champion award last season, and Conrad Farrugia who has come through their system. Gale said after the tough few years they’ve had on field, it’s encouraging to see that players are wanting to come back to the club. He said it speaks highly of what they’re doing off field. Gale said they were hoping to have their coaching set up finalised in the next few weeks. Star bowler Brad Jones has coached the side 22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 May, 2022

Ben MacRae is back for Melton next season.

(Shawn Smits) 203532_06

the last couple of years. “Brad and Joel will be involved with someone else,” he said. “We’d like someone in a director of coaching or senior coaching role. “An extra experienced coach would be good.

Hopefully we can sort that out in the next fortnight. “We’ve got some great plans and hopefully we can attract some good coaches and players. We’ll hopefully start next season on a high.”

Massimo D’Ambrosio is starring for the Western Jets. (AFL Photos)

Strikers on a winning streak Winning momentum has been the key for the Westside Strikers in the FV state league 4 west season. The Strikers have lost just one game in the first 10 rounds and have had the best defence in the competition, conceding just nine goals. The side sits second on the table, two points behind Keilor Wolves. The closeness of the competition means the Strikers are only goal difference ahead of Gisborne and Laverton. Strikers president Sam Raniolo said with the closeness of the competition, they have to just keep on winning. “We’re happy at the moment,” he said. “There’s several teams on the same points, so it is very close.” Raniolo said the team was building what they done in the last few years this season. He said they know that they can match it with the best sides in the competition. “The squad we have is pretty much the same as last year,” he said. “We added a couple more players to strengthen it. “Momentum is the key. We want to maintain that and keep going and keep training really strongly and hopefully keep winning.” On Saturday, the Strikers faced Bell Park. Despite coming home with a 3-0 win, Raniolo said it was far by easy. “Bell Park was pretty good,” he said. “We were 2-0 up at half time and they then really came at us. We sat back a bit and it made a difference to the game. “We got the third goal and it made it a lot easier.” Robert Chelchowski scored a double for the Strikers. This week the Strikers face Gisborne, one of two teams they are yet to face. With Gisborne one of the teams striving for a promotion spot, the match is massive in the context of the season. “We’re at home to Gisborne,” Raniolo said. “If we can knock them off it puts some distance between us and them.” Meanwhile on Saturday night, Keilor Wolves beat Spring Hills 8-0. The Stallions sit second bottom with just one win. In state league 1 north-west, Caroline Springs George Cross continued its good run of form with a 2-0 win against Whittlesea United. The Georgies are six points clear on top of the table, but have played an extra match than second and third. In state league 5 west, Melton Phoenix beat Lara United 4-1. The Phoenix sit second on the ladder.

Prescott is living out the dream The title of sports captain at The Grange P-12 Secondary College sits well with rising rugby league star Suliasi Prescott. Having moved to Australia with his family when he was nine, Prescott has become started to rise up the league ranks while still studying. “I was deeply honored and proud to be named as the college sports captain,” said a quietly-spoken Prescott. “[I’m] loud and supportive when I need to be or working in the background urging my teammates and school colleagues on if that is required.” Prescott started playing rugby league in New Zealand because his brother did, but admits it took a while for him to make a team as he was too small. Now as a year 12 student, the tables have turned. His brother no longer plays and Prescott has landed a two year contract to play NRL with Melbourne Storm from 2023. He is already part of the Melbourne Storm development squad, the Hurricanes. “It was a great honour and I am very proud to be only one of two Victorians to be offered a contract,” he said. “I play as the number nine or hooker. My mentor at Storm is Brandon Smith.

He is an iconic NRL player who has a great mind for tactics and is a very powerful person. I want to crack it at Storm rather than go to Sydney to play with another club.” Once he arrived in Australia, Prescott quickly established his credentials spending two years with the Werribee Bears, winning the player of the year award twice, four years at Sunshine Cowboys and now with the Truganina Rabbitohs. Currently, Prescott plays under-18s in the morning and with the men’s team in the afternoon. He said the biggest thing that had improved for him beside his size was his speed and played a massive part in being selected in a number of state teams. Prescott “came of age” in an under-15 tournament in Queensland when as captain, and he was named as the tournament most valuable player and made the Australian squad. As well as studying, Prescott’s training regime is exhausting. “Mondays and Wednesdays I train with the [Melbourne Storm] Thunderbolts,” he said. “Training includes a 30-minute upper body gym session, 30-minute running or fitness

component and an hour and a half of skills and match simulation. “Tuesdays and Thursdays are with Truganina. We then play on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays. It doesn’t give me much time for a rest but I d o love playing.” Having signed with the Strom for next season, Prescott could find himself playing interstate. “In 2023 as a contracted Melbourne Storm player I can play with the Thunderbolts or be sent to Queensland to play Colts in Brisbane as part of the Storm’s feeder clubs. I don’t have a preference. I will play where I am asked to play.” Prescott is the May Don Deeble Sports Award nominee. The award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and The Star Weekly Newspapers. If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner contact, swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631. Peter Howe

Bears steal two points By Tara Murray Burnside Heights will quite happily pocket two points from a draw with Taylors Lakes and move on in the Essendon District Football League division 2. The Bears struggled for most of their match against Lions on Saturday and trailed by 25 points at the last break. Something switched though and the Bears took control of the match and worked their way back on the scoreboard. The Bears would have the final shot of the game, which would go left for a behind and leave the two teams locked at 8.8 (56) apiece. Bears president Justin Peagram said they were lucky to get anything out of the game. “We weren’t in the contest for three quarters,” he said. “It reached a moment in the third quarter when we were four goals down, we had only kicked three goals for the game. “Finally everything clicked in the last quarter but we left our run too late.” Peagram said they changed a few players around including moving Kristian Rocci into the midfield. It allowed them to control the middle of the ground, while their forwards started to get into the game playing a bit deeper. He said having a couple of late withdrawals including Anthony Fawcus, may have played an impact early on too. Theodore Sapountzis was the only multiple goal kicker for the Bears with four. Tyson Iglesias was named their best, with Peagram saying the defenders had kept them in the game in the first three quarters. The draw keeps Burnside Heights in third position, only two points behind the top two teams. Peagram said they were getting some reward for effort. “We weren’t sure where we would be,” he said. “We had a few personnel changes and late recruits coming in, so it was going to take some time to gel. “The Jacana game we don’t know how to play, otherwise all the other games have been close. “The guys are fitter than previous years. We’re in a good position for the next eight weeks.”

Kristian Rocci

(Shawn Smits) 282234_01

The Bears will get a good idea where they sit the next couple of weeks playing the top two sides Oak Park and Keilor Park. The Bears women’s team has had a tough start to the season, without a win after six rounds in premier division. On Saturday they lost to Aberfeldie, 6.8 (44)-3.7 (25). Peagram said they weren’t able to put together four quarters of football this season. “We had a few people come back late and

a few who had come back after a year off,” he said. “There’s been a change of pace of the game. We are competitive in a lot of games but we’re not putting together the consistency. “Against Aberfeldie we lost a couple of girls early and it got away from us. The second half was even.” In other results, Hillside’s men’s side had a win in division 1, while their women’s side last in premier division.

Suliasi Prescott. (Supplied)

Panthers sneak home against Cobras Melton South held off a fast finishing Bacchus Marsh in a thriller in the Ballarat Football League on Saturday. The Panthers, who were searching for their second win of the season, had to fight hard to come away with the four points. After leading at the first break by 13 points and then eight at half time, the Panthers blew the lead out to 29 at the last break. The Cobras got back into the game with six last quarter goals. With the Panthers kicking two of their own, they were able to hold on to win, 15.8 (98)-15.7 (97). William Thornton-Gielen kicked five goals for the winners and was named in the best alongside his brother Jacob Thornton-Gielen and Dylan Jones. Rex Hickman kicked four goals for the Cobras, while Jake Owen kicked three goals. Jack Williams and Max Eastmure were named the Cobras best. The Panthers now sit eighth on the ladder, one game behind the seventh placed Cobras. Melton remains undefeated after beating North Ballarat at Macpherson Park. It was an even first quarter, before the Bloods started to kick away. They extended the lead at every break to win 19.7 (121)-7.11 (53). Ryan Carter and Braedan Kight kicked five goals apiece in the win. They were named their side’s best two players on the day. The Bloods sit top two games clear of second placed Darley. The Devils had another good win on Saturday, beating Redan. The Devils trailed by four points at quarter time, before kicking seven goals in the second quarter to open the game up. They were able to extend the lead in both the third and fourth quarters, to get a 20.13 (133)-10.18 (78) win. Nick Rodda kicked five goals, while Brady Wright kicked four. Andrew Azzopardi and Luther Baker were the best in the win. Tara Murray Tuesday, 24 May, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

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