Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 27th September 2022 by Star Weekly

Established in 1981 as the

proudly serving Melton and Moorabool

27 SEPTEMBER, 2022

12496404-AV22-21

FREE DIGITAL EDITION

SIG N U P N O W!

All ages swarm to Aintree Aintree was abuzz with the sound of honey bees as part of a school holiday program at Woodlea Estate aimed at piquing the curiosity of young people on Tuesday, September 20. A collaboration between We Love Aintree and Woodlea Estate, the program involved a presentation from Ben’s Bees owner Ben Moore on the importance of honey bees and the products bees collect and make. Attendees received tips on how to keep bees in the backyard, how to look after bees without a hive and the overall value of bees to biodiversity. An observation hive also provided a safe way for kids to get up close and personal with their new buzzing buddies.

Benjamin, 8, checks out the bees on show at Woodlea Estate. (Joe Mastroianni) 299840_01

Melton pushes for station By Matthew Sims Melton council has put the call out for all major parties in the upcoming state election to commit to a new rail station at Calder Park. On top of building a new train station at Calder Park, the council has also advocated for an overhaul of the Calder Park Drive corridor between the Calder Freeway and the Melton Highway, replacing the current dangerous intersection with a full diamond interchange and duplicating the lanes. The state government has committed to a business case to upgrade the Calder Park

Drive and Calder Freeway interchange and has started work on removing the level crossing on Calder Park Drive. Melton mayor Goran Kesic said a fully integrated transport approach would take relieve congestion at the nearby Watergardens station and car park. “Our rapid population growth will continue to put stress on our already congested roads and the overcrowded Watergardens station,” he said. “By including a new station as part of the Level Crossing Removal project, there would be major cost savings and delivery

of an integrated approach to transport infrastructure. Cr Kesic said it would make sense to deliver all works at the same time as the level crossing removal. “There is no benefit to the community to draw out the disruption from the partial closure of Calder Park Drive,” he said. “Let’s get it done right.” According to Melton council modelling, there would be more than 34,000 cars passing through the Calder Park Drive corridor by 2031 and 150,000 people living near Calder Park by 2051.

Hillside resident Darren Cutajar said parking at Watergardens station in peak times was “terrible”. “Getting to the station in peak hour is a nightmare with people trying to get kids to school and childcare congesting roads,” he said. “Now that I am working hybrid, I travel to the city by car as I can’t risk not getting a car park. “If a Calder Park station is given the green light, it would be within walking distance for me and my adult children - doing our part for the carbon footprint.”

TALK TO US ABOUT Melton Toyota 143-147 High Street, Melton T: 03 8746 0300 LMCT 1976 meltontoyota.com.au 12554985-JW27-22

FINANCE INSURANCE GENUINE ACCESSORIES TYRES TINTING REPAIR & RESTORE SERVICES KINTO+ CAR HIRE ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE

T e e mo e t an eal at Melton Toyota

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

27 September 2022

Mayor’s message Cr Goran Kesic

STAY INFORMED

I would like to congratulate our finalists for the 2022 City of Melton Business Excellence Awards! Our independent panel of judges had their work cut out for them with very impressive nominations this year for each category: Sustainability Leadership; Customer Excellence; Innovation and Creativity: Adaptability; Diversity and Inclusion, and; Disability Inclusion. The judges have somehow narrowed the field down to three finalists for each category and winners will be announced in November. All nominated businesses will receive feedback from our judges, who are experienced business professionals, which can help identify potential areas they can improve on. Our economic development team will also offer them opportunities to participate in business support programs such as mentoring, training and the Venture Melton Business Network. At the end of the day, everyone wins, especially our local businesses and their customers. I also want to congratulate the 53 participants from Botanica Springs and Fraser Rise who graduated from our Daughters of the West (DOTW) program last week. The commitment these women have shown to their health and wellbeing is inspirational. This year we challenged the women to compete in the DOTW Step Challenge against other DOTW groups across the west of Melbourne and regional Victoria. Our Botanica Springs group finished first out of 15 teams, recording 7,343,316 steps which equals 5,595 kilometres! And the number one walker across all 15 Daughters of the West teams was the City of Melton’s own Darlene Searle, who recorded 1,533,355 steps on her own. Well done Darlene! Please feel free to contact me on 0437 241 436 or goran.kesic@melton.vic.gov.au regarding any Council issues.

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

Have Your Say

Cricket Strategy We’ve developed a Cricket Strategy that outlines the priorities and actions to support the sustainable growth of cricket in the City of Melton. The Strategy plans for the number and types of facilities needed, diverse participation opportunities, potential investment and partnerships.

What are your transport needs? If you’re interested in the future of cricket facilities and activities in the City of Melton, then have your say by Friday 30 September at conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/ cricket

Seniors Festival Fun From line dancing to concerts, cooking and garden events, seniors in the City of Melton can look forward to a bumper program of activities during the Seniors Festival. Join in all the fun throughout October: • Concerts

• Line dancing

• Workshops

• Guided exhibition tours

• Garden tours

• Scone baking

An upcoming community transport forum is your chance to share your transport needs with the state election candidates. Transport & Kororoit, the Community Forum on Transport, will cover all forms of transport across the electorate – Aintree, Burnside, Burnside Heights, Caroline Springs, Deanside, Mount Cottrell, Mt Atkinson, Ravenhall and Rockbank. When: Thursday 6 October, 6:30pm – 8:00pm Where: Burnside Children’s & Community Centre

For more information and bookings go to melton.vic.gov.au/seniorsfestival

Book and submit your questions at mtf.org.au/upcoming-events/ mtf-forum-kororoit/

Coburn Ward with Cr Bob Turner Council’s Fix Our Roads campaign petition has reached over 4,100 signatures! The City of Melton needs better roads, but unless we get the support of the State and Federal governments, and all major parties, road upgrades will not happen at a pace to match the rate at which our community is growing. With the Victorian election taking place in November, we need to let politicians know that our community is united on this issue and are seeking commitments from all candidates to Fix Our Roads.

Thank you to everyone who has signed our petition so far. If you haven’t already, you can add your voice to the campaign by visiting fixourroads.com.au As you may be aware, a new major electricity transmission line is set to come through the City of Melton, to deliver power generated from windfarms in Bulgana to Sydenham. The Western Victoria Transmission Network Project is not a Council initiative, nor do we have a role in determining its corridor or approving the project for the proposed transmission lines.

However, we are supporting our community by working closely with other affected Councils to provide input to the project to ensure the assessment process is thorough and considers the impacts on our local community. For more information, visit conversations.melton.vic.gov.au I am available to meet with residents most Saturday mornings from 9am, by appointment. Please contact Barb McKenzie on 9747 7200 to book a time, or contact me on 0412 584 224 or bob.turner@melton.vic.gov.au

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

Cr Kathy Majdlik

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all 12570169-HC39-22

2 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

‘Yes’ to three-storey medical hub By Matthew Sims Melton council has approved a three-storey medical centre to be constructed along Coburns Road, which will provide a number of medical services including osteopathy, podiatry and physiotherapy. At its meeting on Monday, September 12, the councillors passed a motion to grant a permit for the use and development of 150-152, 154 and 156 Coburns Road in Melton for the purposes of a three-storey medical centre with associated car parking and landscaping.

The motion also included a request for officers to amend the conditions and the developers’ plans to increase the number of disabled car spaces from two to four and to request for officers to monitor the parking space usage to determine the adequacy of the number of parking spaces into the future. Melton council planning services manager Bob Baggio said the development would involve the demolition of two existing dwellings at 154 and 156 Coburns Road in Melton to make way for the construction of a new three-storey building at 156 Coburns Road.

He said the council had received six objections from Coburns Road residents to the application. “The main issues raised by the residents related to the proposed height and scale of the proposed building and concerns about overlooking and overshadowing,” Mr Baggio said. Once the new 10.6-metre high building is completed, the existing building would be used as offices and storage space, as well as housing one to two medical practitioners in association with the medical centre which will operate from the new building.

The proposed medical centre would provide a centralised allied health services hub for the area offering a range of medical services, including osteopathy, physiotherapy, podiatry psychology, occupational therapy, speech pathology. The new development would involve 38 car parking spaces and a total of 20 medical practitioners employed across the new and existing buildings. The application also outlined plans to construct and display an internally illuminated business identification pylon sign at 3.3 metres high and 4.6 metres wide.

Special mix for a long life Financial security, work and never getting upset have been the secrets to a long life according to Burnside centenarian Mary Micallef. She celebrated with her extended family on Saturday, September 17 ahead of her birthday on Tuesday, September 20. “I always put into my mind that I have to work, save money for my old age,” she said. “I saved enough money that I’m not a pensioner. “I’ve got my own money.” Ms Micallef also said she never gets upset. “I always find a way to be happy,” she said. “That’s what you have to do in life.” Ms Micallef (nee Pastura) was born in Malta on 20 September in 1922. As a teenager she married her husband Frank and had her first child at the age of 18. Ms Micallef said the couple “lost everything” during World War II, with Malta taking heavy bombing. Her Maltese husband served in the British Air Force with distinction receiving three medals. During his service, he met an Australian soldier from the Schembri family, who were makers of bespoke furniture. It turned out the men’s fathers knew each other and the Schembris sponsored Mr Micallef. He worked in their store before becoming a senior public servant. Ms Micallef worked in factories for 40 years. The couple lived in North Melbourne, Pascoe Vale and Caroline Springs. Now a widow, Ms Micallef was married for 68 years and now lives at the Burnside Retirement Village. She has five daughters, 19 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren and four great-greatgrandchildren, with two more on the way.

Mary Micallef turned 100 recently, receiving a letter from The Queen. (Joe Mastroianni) 299445 Right: Mary with her four daughters Dianne White, Melita Proebstl, Annette Jones and Thilda Mulliet. Below: Mary celebrated her 100th birthday with 71 of her descendants. (Pictures: Supplied)

Dora Houpis

Scholarships The way to the stars

The Geelong College Academic, Music, Boarding and General Excellence Scholarships for entry into 2024 are now open.

Be of

COURAGE Tuesday, 27 September, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 3

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

CONTACT US PHONE \ 03 8318 5777 LOCATION \ Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 DISTRIBUTION \ 1300 656 678 distribution@fermax.com.au

ADVERTISING GENERAL SALES INQUIRIES westads@starweekly.com.au CLASSIFIEDS \ 1300 666 808 EMAIL \ sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

GENERAL REAL ESTATE INQUIRIES reads@starweekly.com.au

EDITORIAL GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES westeditorial@starweekly.com.au COMMUNITY CALENDAR ENTRIES communitycalendar@starweekly.com.au

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

Be Kind to Animals Week at Edgar’s Not-for-profit animal sanctuary Edgar’s Mission is calling on animal lovers to take the kindness pledge this Be Kind to Animals Week, running October 1 to 7. The week is all about looking out for the creatures we share the earth with – feathers, fur, scales, fleece and all. Taking the kindness pledge can mean eating plant-based meals, committing acts of kindness, or choosing products that don’t include or test on animals. Mission founder and director Pam Ahern said all animals deserve to be treated with compassion and love. “If you’ve ever given a dog a belly rub while their tail wags happily, seen a lamb snuggle into their carer, or watched a kangaroo tenderly care for their young, it is a wonderful reminder that all animals want, need and deserve our kindness, no matter what form they’ve taken,” Ms Ahern said. She said those who take the pledge online will receive great free recipes and kindness tips throughout the week, as well as the chance to win a hamper full of ethical goodies. Children will also get free access to cool animal facts, virtual story times and take part in a colouring competition. Vet Nurse Ruby, a rescued kelpie at Edgar’s Mission, is one of the week’s proud ambassadors – the failed working dog was set to be put down before the mission intervened. “It is through our daily choices – what we choose to buy or not buy, to eat and not eat, that can really make a difference for animals. You could also volunteer or donate to your favourite animals charity, leave water out for wildlife, or organise an outdoor clean up,“ Ms Ahern said. Make the pledge: bekindtoanimalsweek.org. au. Elsie Lange

Briefs Bus crash shock Ballarat’s Loreto College was plunged into shock after a school bus carrying 27 pupils in Years 9 to 11 crashed down an embankment on the Western Highway at Bacchus Marsh in the early hours of Wednesday. The college stayed open on Thursday, despite the national day of mourning for Queen Elizabeth II to allow access to counselling, principal Michelle Brodrick said. Police called their escape from the vehicle “miraculous”. The students were travelling to Melbourne Airport for a flight to visit the US Space and Rocket Centre’s Space Camp, and the centre has fully refunded the trip after hearing of the crash. -AAP

HPV vaccine Moorabool students aged 12 to 18 who missed all or part of the Gardasil 9 vaccine course in Year 7 will be able to get vaccinated for free as part of Moorabool council’s Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine catch-up program next month. Vaccination sessions will be held at the following locations: Bacchus Marsh Secondary College on Thursday, October 6; Bacchus Marsh Grammar on Thursday, October 13; and Darley Civic Hub Pavilion on Saturday, October 8 from 10am to 2pm and between 5pm and 7pm on Wednesday, October 12. Details: moorabool.vic.gov.au/Events/ HPV-Vaccinations

Vet Nurse Ruby the dog is an ambassador for Be Kind to Animals Week, with Edgar’s Mission founder Pam Ahern. (Supplied: Edgar’s Mission)

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

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

Learn more about your new Melton Hospital As one of the most signiﬁcant new hospital projects in the state, it takes a lot of planning and engagement with the local community to help shape the services, priorities and look and feel of a new hospital. It’s a complex job but we’re well on our way… Join us at a community information session to ﬁnd out how we’re building your new hospital and tell us what’s important to you. Where: Cobblebank Stadium, Corner of Ferris and Bridge Roads, Strathtulloh When: Thursday 6 October from 5pm to 7pm and Saturday 8 October from 11am to 1pm

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. Sales skills/experience: • Ability to maintain existing professional relationships and to create new ones • Ability to meet defined sales and activity targets • Excellent listening skills • Accuracy and attention to detail • Effective time management to meet deadlines • Ability to operate in a team • Demonstrates initiative and flexibility • Effective oral and written communication Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Mandy Clark Group Advertising Sales Manager mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

Drop in anytime, no registration required. Scan the QR code for more information or visit vhba.vic.gov.au/new-melton-hospital

SCAN ME 12518321-AV43-21

4 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Transport forum to hear concerns Melton council is encouraging residents in the west to let state election candidates know what their transport needs are at an upcoming community transport forum. Organised by the Metropolitan Transport Forum advocacy group, the event on October 6 will cover all forms of transport across the Kororoit electorate which includes Aintree, Albanvale, Burnside, Burnside Heights, Cairnlea, Caroline Springs, Deanside, Deer Park, Derrimut, Mount Cottrell, Mt Atkinson, Ravenhall, Rockbank and Truganina – and the Melton and Brimbank municipalities. Candidates will have the chance talk about what their plans are for roads and public transport if elected. There will also be an opportunity for candidates to answer questions.

Melton Highway traffic issues.

(Supplied)

Liberal candidate John Fletcher, Labor’s candidate Luba Grigorovich will be in attendance as well as upper house Western Metropolitan candidates, the Greens’ Bernadette Thomas and independent Catherine Cummings. Kororoit is one of Melbourne’s fastest growing areas but has missed out on transport infrastructure investment leaving local residents disadvantaged as they try to access work, school and services.

Public transport and roads have consistently been one of the issues facing the Melton municipality. Melton council has launched the Fix our Roads campaign in the lead up to this year’s federal and state elections. This forum has been organised by the Metropolitan Transport Forum which is an advocacy group comprising members from Melbourne metropolitan local governments, associate members representing transport

companies, and participants from the State Government and environment groups. Melton mayor Goran Kesic said they have been calling for more state investment in transport across the region – with our major roads, rail and bus networks all in desperate need of upgrades. “Our residents are facing long commutes, high transport costs, and less time spent with families,” he said. “We’ve got 50 new families moving into our city each week and 50 babies being born. This is one of the fastest growing areas in the country. “We launched the Fix our Roads campaign calling on all candidates to invest in our major roads. Many of our roads are already at capacity and our population is going to more than double by 2050. Let your state election candidates know what your transport needs are and tell your story straight to them.” The forum will be held on October 6 at 6.30pm at Burnside Children’s and Community Centre. Tickets to the event are limited and can be booked at https://mtf.org. au/upcoming-events/mtf-forum-kororoit/. Details: fixourroads.com.au

Business skills honoured in city excellence awards The cream of the crop of Melton’s business output has received recognition, with 18 Melton businesses announced as finalists in the 2022 City of Melton Business Excellence Awards. Scheduled for Friday, November 25, the 15th annual awards night would recognise the contributions of local businesses in Melton. Melton mayor Goran Kesic said the council was proud to acknowledge the businesses’ innovation, resilience and strength.

“These awards are one of many council initiatives helping local businesses thrive in the city of Melton,” he said. “I’d like to thank all our sponsors, including official media partner the Star Weekly for helping to make these awards possible.” The finalists for the 2022 City of Melton Business Excellence Awards are: • Award for Innovation and Creativity - Aspire

Lawyers, Ready 2 Rock Hospitality and Raerae VinTay; • Award for Adaptability - Pinarc Disability Support, Blue Marlin and Pro Gamers; • Award for Diversity and Inclusion - Learner’s Hub Education Centre, Kumon Caroline Springs and Slan Finance; • Award for Customer Excellence - Proptech Legal, Cat Napping Melton and Fit 40 Melton;

• Award for Sustainability Leadership - We Love Aintree, Varcon Group and Protech IT Solutions; and • Award for Disability Inclusion - Discovering Strength, NeuroRehab Allied Health Network and Mambourin Melton. The winners of the Mayoral Achievement Award and the Business of the Year will also be announced at the awards evening.

SAT 8 OCT

 FOOD TRUCK PRECINCT  NIGHT MARKET  FREE KIDS ZONE & RIDES  PONY TROTS  DINING PACKAGES  LIVE DJ & AFTER PARTY Gold Coin Entry |

Gates Open 5pm | www.tabcorppark.com.au

2 Ferris Road, Cobblebank T: 8746 0600 www.tabcorppark.com.au 12567580-MS39-22

Tuesday, 27 September, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 5

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Police crackdown on street crime By Tara Murray Police continue to focus on dismantling street gangs, including in Melbourne’s north-west, as part of an ongoing operation. Operation Alliance involves teams of officers, detectives and specialist units patrolling streets, monitoring intelligence and proactively engaging with offenders to disrupt and dismantle youth gangs. The most recent operation occurred between September 10 and 13. Werribee, Point Cook, Melton and Mill Park were among the areas where there was a large police presence.

In total 66 people were arrested, including 23 people aged between 14 and 25. Police laid charges of aggravated burglary, robbery, car theft, assault and criminal damage following the arrests. As part of the operation, search warrants executed in Wyndham resulted in five arrests. Police recovered an allegedly stolen vehicle linked to four separate incidents of shop stealing and petrol drive offs in Point Cook, Woodlea, Williams Landing and Rockbank. Three of the youths were remanded in custody while two were released and are expected to be charged on summons. Police also attended a property on Florey

Avenue, Point Cook, following reports of four males acting suspiciously on September 11. When police arrived four males got into an allegedly stolen car and drove off. The Air Wing followed the car to Shrike Terrace, Point Cook, where it was dumped. An 18-year-old man from Wyndham Vale, a 17-year-old boy from Derrimut and a 16-year-old boy from Truganina were all charged with theft of a motor vehicle. Police also executed five search warrants across Hoppers Crossing, Werribee and Sunshine West arresting five men aged between 17 and 24. A sixth man, 22, was arrested after presenting himself at Keilor

Downs police station. The six men are expected to be charged in relation to a stabbing incident at Kiloran Park in Mooroolbark in August, which left a 16-year-old boy with serious injuries. Brimbank Divisional Commander Superintendent Michael Cruse said the blitz was a collaborative effort involving multiple policing regions. “Dozens of offenders involved in serious and violent offending have been arrested as a result, and we’ve also engaged with a significant number of people, further boosting our intelligence holdings and giving us a chance to deter people from getting involved in gang activity before it’s too late.“

Prost! Oktoberwest fun The spirit of Munich will be arriving in Williamstown next month, with Oktoberwest returning after a two-year hiatus. Seaworks will welcome more than 4000 people in raising a stein and enjoying a range of music and other entertainment on Saturday, October 1. Festival director Craig Turton said this year’s festival will be “bigger and better” than ever before. “This year, we are kicking off from 12pm, giving everyone plenty of time to get into your German best to experience the incredible music, live performances and plentiful food and drinks,” he said. “It’s the perfect day for all ages with more rides and entertainment than you can poke a pretzel at.” On top of traditional German-style bands, the festival will also feature Sydney-based

bands Furnace and the Fundamentals and 19-Twenty. Children ticket discounts are on offer, with free tickets for children under 10, while general admission tickets are currently available for $45. Details: oktoberwest.org

Seaworks Williamstown will host the Oktoberwest festival on Saturday, October 1. (Supplied)

12560294-SN39-22

6 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

MY PLACE Barbara McMillan is the president of the Bacchus Marsh and District Historical Society, and has a long history with the region herself as a long-time resident. watching footy or just enjoying time with my children at the playground, I found it to be a relaxing place to be. It is such a shame it hasn’t been maintained to what it once was. It would be great to see it in its former glory. Another favourite is catching up with friends for a coffee or meal at one of the local cafes in town.

What’s your connection to Bacchus Marsh? My connection with Bacchus Marsh goes back to 1914. My great aunt leased the railway refreshment rooms during WWI. My father attended St Bernard’s school for a short time during those years. I have lived in Bacchus Marsh for just over 50 years. I came here when I married and have raised my family here. My children attended the local primary school, as did my husband before them. It was a wonderful place for my children to grow up and be part of the community.

What is your favourite part of working with the Bacchus Marsh and District Historical Society? Sharing our local history and heritage on our Facebook page and website and conducting historical research. Learning something new about the district I have lived in for over fifty years is fascinating. We are currently undertaking the process of cataloguing our Collection, which is mostly paper based, into digital form and this will enable it to be accessed on line. Some of our members have just attended a 3 day workshop with AMaGA to learn the art of digitising, managing our Collection and making our Collection accessible online.

What do you like about where you live? I love the feel of the county atmosphere, although that is fast disappearing with the numerous estates being developed. You can feel the change of pace driving in to the town through the Avenue. The community spirit, people are friendly and willing to help out when necessary. I am involved with the local Historical Society and the Ladies Probus Club, both of which offer the opportunity to be involved with our local community. It is also a great way to get to know people in the town. Being centrally located to Ballarat, Geelong and Melbourne is beneficial too. What, if anything, would you change about where you live? I feel we need to have suitable infrastructure in place for the new housing estates being developed. More variety in the local shops would encourage more people to shop locally and support our businesses. We also need more sporting facilities for our children and grandchildren and of course a decent

Barbara McMillan (right) with fellow Bacchus Marsh and District Historical Society member Christine Bronchinetti. (Damjan Janevski) 296774_04

aquatic centre. We are well overdue having a bypass built to take the heavy vehicles out of the town and residential areas. The local roads were never meant to have the volume of heavy traffic using them every day.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time? My favourite local place is Maddingley Park which has a fantastic playground build by community volunteers twenty years ago this October. Whether I was playing tennis,

This is

Why is preserving history important to you? Promoting and preserving the heritage and history of the district is so important for our future generations. For them to learn about the settlement of the area and the way people lived. Bacchus Marsh was one of the earliest places settled in Victoria in 1836. We need to ensure that this history is never lost. We have our Express newspapers from 1866 to 1954 available on Trove, which enables access from anywhere in the world. Learning about the history of a place is a good way of bringing communities together through a shared understanding of the of the common areas that we share.

men the mo

12555624-JC39-22

Tuesday, 27 September, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 7

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Dental wait times could worsen The average waiting time for general dental care in the municipality could further increase if the state government does not offer dentists a salary increase, an expert has warned. Currently, the average waiting time to receive dental care in Melton is about 39 months, while the state average is 26 months. Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch chief executive Associate Professor Matt Hopcraft said there was a 22 per cent decrease in dentist numbers across the western metropolitan region over the last four years.

“Recruitment and retention are a problem, and that’s definitely linked to pay, that’s one of the things that our members tell us,” he said. “That’s making it harder for people to access services and contributing to the longer times.“ In May, formal bargaining commenced between the state government and the Professionals Australia union to advocate for adequate pay. “The Victorian Hospitals Industrial Association and the Australian Dental Association Victoria Branch continue to negotiate in good faith for a new enterprise

Class offers a stitch in time

agreement for public sector and specialist dentists,” a state government spokesperson said. Associate Professor Hopcraft said a salary increase would help ensure the sector would be strong and viable, so people could receive necessary care. “Victorian dentists are paid on average 20 to 30 per cent less than their colleagues interstate and that’s impacting on recruitment and retention,” he said. “If the government doesn’t come to the table with a good deal for dentists, we’ll see more

people leaving the sector and that can only mean that waiting lists will grow longer.” Associate Professor Hopcraft said poor oral health can have a “huge impact on people’s overall health and wellbeing”. “Waiting for two years or three years for care, means all of those problems get worse and people’s overall health suffers and gets worse,” he said. “If you had to wait months or years to see a doctor or to go to the hospital to have an operation, it’s crazy that it’s acceptable for dental health.”

Above: Tutor Elizabeth Charlton with Rita, Nelda, Ana and Sharon. (Pictures: Joe Mastroianni) 296554

Banchory Community Centre in Hillside runs a Sewing For Everyone class. The current program is running each Tuesday from 10am to 12pm. The class is suitable for beginners wanting to learn simple techniques or those who are experienced, to cater for all abilities. Lessons cover how to read patterns, sew zips, button holes, hem items and gain confidence in sewing techniques, while working on different projects in a fun and friendly environment. Star Weekly photographer Joe Mastroianni visited the community centre to capture the class. Details: meltonlearning.com.au/events/ sewing-for-everyone-term-3-2022 stress Our aim is to take the icle veh of out ion fus and con

ACCIDENTS & REPAIRS

Black Cats get lucky with $100,000 lottery win

F PICK UP & DROP OF SERVICE AVAILABLE VA CC RE PA IRE R

CALL US NOW 03 9394 1350 1/30 PETERPAUL WAY TRUGANINA www.collisionconcierge.com.au

12562874-DL33-22

EXCESS REDUCTION UP TO $1000

Eight women from a Caroline Springs family are planning to have the ultimate girls’ night out to celebrate their $100,000 Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot win. The private family syndicate, named Lucky Black Cat Meow, won the guaranteed first prize in the draw on Monday, 19 September. The syndicate leader was busy running errands and had no idea the family had landed the prize until an official from The Lott called to confirm the win. “This is insane,” she said. “This is going to make many people very happy.”

8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

She said to celebrate the win she would invite the syndicate members over and then we can go out for a girls’ night. “We’ve all been through a rough time, so this prize is much appreciated.” The syndicate leader said she would spend her share of the winnings upgrading her bathroom, “The girls will no doubt have plans for their portion of the prize,” she said. “We decided to name the syndicate Lucky Black Cat Meow as a joke, but we certainly feel lucky now.” Liam McNally

The syndicate leader needed to “sit down for a minute” when she received the news.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SECTION

12567602-ET38-22

Tuesday, 27 September, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 9

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

30 years ago

25 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

September 30, 1992

October 1, 2002

October 2, 2007

October 2, 2012

The word ‘satan’ is scrawled on walls of a house where teenagers claim they invoke the ghost of an eight-year-old girl.

Geoff Camm is among residents in Bacchus Marsh’s picturesque Millbank Street who are in the midst of debating the future of 10 plane trees.

Advocacy group Bicycle Victoria has criticised Melton Council for failing to allocate any money for bike paths in 2007-08 budget.

Finding an edge, cricket seeks new ways to attract youngsters.

12567162-AV37-22

10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

‘‘

BEHIND THE NEWS

When I first got tackled I was like, wow, this is next level

’’

- Mellissa Bragg

The versatility and talent Melissa Bragg displayed in her first year in the VFLW earned her a contract with the Cats’ AFLW side.

(Arj Giese)

Transition challenges for Bragg Former Super Netballer Melissa Bragg was contracted to the Geelong Cat’s AFLW side just before season seven kicked off. She talks to Matt Hewson about the transition from one elite-level sport to the next.

elissa Bragg may still officially live in Werribee but the Cats’ latest recruit is no stranger to Geelong. “I love Geelong, I started playing netball here when I was 14,” Bragg said. “Mum used to to drive me down, then once I got a bit older I’d catch the train down then go back for school the next day when I was playing for East Geelong in the GFNL. “Then I started playing with Geelong Cougars as well, I went to uni in Geelong, so most of my life is down here. “I work in Werribee at the moment still, so I go in between; my family house is in Werribee and my fiance lives in Geelong and we’re trying to buy a house here. So I’ve always done the travel between both.” Bragg transitioned to football this year, playing in the VFLW season for Geelong and displayed enough talent and versatility to earn her new contract in the club’s AFLW squad, but it’s not the first time she’s received an offer from the Geelong Football Club. “When Geelong first got a VFL team I’d just started playing netball at the elite level, and they contacted me and asked me if I wanted to come down for a kick,” Bragg said. “But I actually said no, as I’d just started to make it at netball, which was a lifelong goal, to play netball at an elite level. “And then at the end of last year, when I didn’t get re-contracted for netball, I ran into Renee Garing, who I knew quite well through netball. She asked if I’d heard anything from another netball club and I said ‘nah, I think I’m done with it’.” Garing, with whom Bragg had played at Geelong Cougars, spoke to club, and soon Bragg got a call. “I went down for a kick with Dan (Lowther,

Bragg trains with her new AFLW teammates.

(Geelong Football Club)

Geelong AFLW coach), and from there he said they wanted me to play VFL if I was interested, and it all started from there.” As a netballer, Bragg was a plucky, agile player and despite, at 5’9”, being considered on the shorter side, she was known as someone who didn’t shy from a physical contest. “I’ve probably always had the tag of being a physical player; netball is technically a non-contact sport, but we all know the physicality that comes with elite-level play,” she said. “I quite enjoyed being an on the body,

physical player, and that’s transferred to footy too. But I can tell you right now, when I first got tackled I was like, wow, this is next level. “The ones you’re expecting are alright, but when you get hit unexpectedly it’s a shock to the system. But one of my natural strengths is my physicality, so to bring that across to footy’s been pretty fun.” Along with her competitiveness and willingness to go in hard at the ball, Bragg’s athleticism and agility, and the work ethic she developed playing netball at the national level, have helped elevate her to the AFLW.

Her former VFLW coach, Andrew Bruce, had nothing but praise for Bragg when asked to describe her game. “Mel’s a highly competitive player who excelled in her first year at VFLW level,” Bruce said. “She demonstrated her ability to play at both ends of the ground throughout the season, and her natural competitiveness and willingness to learn. Her key attributes will be a welcomed addition to our AFLW list.” Bragg said her experiences as a netballer made the transition to AFLW a smooth one. “The fitness and agility I needed to play through the midcourt has transferred across to football,” she said. “In netball I’m considered on the shorter side, whereas in football I’m considered tall. So now I’m one of the bigger bodies but I’ve got the fitness and agility of a smaller player, if that makes sense. “As a footballer, I’m still working on my skills and developing my craft, but the standards that comes across from netball, being in that elite environment, has held me in good stead. I live and breathe it, day to day.” Bragg said she still can’t believe she’s been contracted to play football at the highest level. “The whole thing’s just been so unexpected,” she said. “This time last week I was just at work, you know what I mean? It’s a big shock. But the one thing I hold on to is my work ethic. I’ll always try my best, so as much as it’s a shock I think it’s a bit of a reward for effort as well. “But I’m still just gobsmacked, to be honest. The change to football has been really refreshing and Geelong has been a really welcoming club. I’ve never felt out of place.”

Tuesday, 27 September, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

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

Melton Community Centre Course enrolments are now open at the Melton South Community Centre, 41 Exford Road, Melton South. ■ www.meltonsouth.org.au, 9747 8576 or msccentr@bigpond.net.au

The Gap on Graham The Gap provides a place for Melton youth to hang out, socialise, play games and learn new skills. The centre holds a night for girls aged 10 to 18 years, at the centre, 5 Graham Street, Melton, on Wednesday evenings. There is also a drop-in night for anyone aged 12 to 25 years old. The centre will hold car boot market days on Saturday 8 October and Saturday 12 November, from 10am. Proceeds go towards supporting local youth. ■ 0414 769 605

Photographer’s choice picture this week is of a colourful canola field near Melton. (Damjan Janevski) 299469_01

Melton Men’s Group Melton Men’s Group meets every Thursday from 5-8pm at The Gap on Graham, 5 Graham Street, Melton. Focusing on Senior Men’s mental and physical wellbeing. The group invites new members to come for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including; carpet bowls, pool or table tennis. ■ https://meltonmensgroup.home.blog/

Program Melton South Community Centre’s term 4 program of courses, classes and workshops is out now and enrolments are now open. Copies are being distributed throughout the Melton area and information is also available online. ■ 9747 8576 or visit the centre at 41 Exford Road, Melton South

Eynesbury Market A friendly group of people aged over 50, who enjoy each other’s company while attending events and outings such as dinners, shows, dancing, cinemas and more. If you live in the Melton area and would like to meet new friends, in a welcoming group environment, this is for you. ■ 0498 329 290

Bacchus Marsh Market Bacchus Marsh rejoice! There will be a monthly market at the gorgeous location of Maddingley Park. On the second Saturday of every month there will be a lovely variety of stallholders and food trucks. Bring a picnic blanket and invite your friends and family for a lovely market day out.

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

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

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 2-4pm. Find the Facebook group for more details.

A community market next to the iconic Eynesbury Homestead. The market is on the fourth Sunday of the month. It features a great range of food trucks, artisans, makers and more.

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

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

Melton Combined Probus Club The Melton Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am. ■ 9746 0271

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

French and Italian for over 50s Melton Friendship Group Join the Melton Friendship Group for singles 55 and older. Meet fortnightly for coffee and chat nights and organised affordable outings and events. ■ 0406 493 734

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

U3A Melton U3A Melton offers among its activities a Book Group, Australian History and a gentle exercise class for those 55 and over who are retired or semi-retired who wish to stay mentally and physically active. ■ 0419 563 016

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

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

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

Melton South Knit & Natter

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

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

Zonta club meets Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on

12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

(iStock)

Melton Over 50s Social Group

PUZZLES

DECODER

No. 100

9 2

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

1 1

5 9 4 2 7

ABIDE ABOVE ADAGE ADDED ADEPT ADORE ALIVE CARTS CLAMP COLDS CREST DRANK EDGER FARCE GEARS HASTE HEEDS HIRED KNEES LILAC LUTES

Today’s Aim: 14 words: Good 21 words: Very good

U I

5 4 1 9 8 2 7 6 3

3 4 7 1 5 8 9 2 6

5 8 6 7 2 9 4 1 3

1 9 2 4 6 3 7 5 8

7 6 9 2 3 1 5 8 4

4 LETTERS ARCS ARIA DROP EDDY FROM NEST POPE PUSS ROOM SAME SASH SECT SEER SLID

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

6 LETTERS COSTED DEADER DRAWER RESETS

8 LETTERS CAUSEWAY HIDEAWAY RESOURCE RESTLESS

In which country would you find an airport with the code ABC?

Michael Schumacher (pictured) held the record for the most Formula One Grand Prix wins until which driver broke that record in October 2020?

What is the oldest US whiskey distillery operating in the same place with continuous ownership?

The Office Ladies is a podcast hosted by Jenna Fischer and which other The Office star?

What school do Prince George and Princess Charlotte attend?

George W. Bush was a part owner of which major league baseball team before selling his stake in 1998?

2 3

A T E D

The Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed is in which European city?

L O S S E R I E G A T E

Which race horse owner has had the most wins at the Melbourne Cup?

The record for the most Grammy nominations without a win in one night is held by which artist?

E D S

7 LETTERS CHICKEN EDITORS OFTENER ORDERED PROLONG WELFARE

2 7 9 4 3 8 5 1 6

QUICK QUIZ

G E A

No. 100

9 5 8 3 1 2 6 4 7

2 7 4 6 9 5 8 3 1

6 3 1 8 4 7 2 9 5

3 8 6 7 5 1 4 2 9

1 6 2 3 9 4 8 5 7

7 3 5 6 8 2 1 9 4

TACOS TALON TEPEE THOSE TRACE URINE WAFER

30-09-22

8 2 3 5 7 4 1 6 9

MINCE MOOSE NIGHT OPENS OPERA OUTDO PITHY RAKES REDID ROBIN SANER SAVED SCOFF SEDAN SENSE SHAPE SHONE SINEW SPEWS STEER SWOOP

gout, group, grout, grunt, input, outgo, outing, pour, pouring, pout, pouting, punt, rout, routing, ruin, ruing, rung, runt, tour, touring, trouping, turn, turnip, unit, unto, upon, uproot, UPROOTING

4 1 5 9 8 6 3 7 2

5 1 4 2 6 9 3 7 8

No. 100

& + , & . ( 1

5 LETTERS ABATE

7 9 2 4 6 3 8 1 5

8 6 3 1 7 5 2 4 9

3 1 7 8 2 4 5 9 6

4 9 8 1 7 5 6 3 2

9 4 3 8 1 7 2 6 5

6 2 7 5 4 3 9 8 1

10 11 12 13

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”.

6 5 4 7 1 9 3 2 8

9 2 8 5 3 6 4 7 1

2 8 6 3 4 1 9 5 7

4 3 9 6 5 7 1 8 2

1 7 5 2 9 8 6 3 4

8 5 1 9 2 6 7 4 3

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

9-LETTER WORD

28 words: Excellent

hard

medium

easy

G H 21

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

9 7 2

5x5

A S U J XWRMC Y F GH

1 5 9

6 3 9 8

4 9

3 9 5

3 LETTERS APE ARE ASS DID EGG ERA FED GEE GYM HOG ICE IDS LIE MEW NEE ODD OHS OVA RAP ROD SEA THE WEE YET

N T Z B E D I OQV L K P

WORDFIT

10 For how many seasons did the television show Criminal Minds run? ANSWERS: 1. Texas Rangers 2. Spain 3. Jack Daniel’s Distillery 4. Moscow 5. Lloyd Williams 6. Paul McCartney 7. Lewis Hamilton 8. Angela Kinsey 9. Lambrook School 10. 15

Mountain lion (4) Flower (9) Deal with (3,2)

/ , / $ &

DOWN 1 2 3

$ % 2 9 (

7 1 7

8 9

21 23 24 27

7 $ & 2 6

19 20 22 25 26 28 29

$ ' ' ( '

medium

16 18

+ , 5 ( '

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

12 13

6 + 2 1 (

11 12 14 15

' 5 $ 1 . 5 2 % , 1 $ ' $ * ( ( : 7 + ( 5 ( 6 ( 7 6 $ 5 ( $ 5 & 6 2 3 $ 5 ( + , & . ( 1 6 7 / ( 6 6 + $ 6 7 ( * < 0 ( 3 8 6 6 ( 6 5 $ 3 $ / , 9 ( 6 , 1 ( : + ( ( ' 6

4 1

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

Famous painter (7) Exaggeratedly enthusiastic (7) Open area of commercial dealings (11) Grade of proficiency (karate) (3) Act of kindness (6) Non-professional (7) Prepare for publication (4) Separate section added to a newspaper (10) Fanciful aversion to a new working week (coll) (10) About (4) Ragged and thin (7) Hanging tuft of threads (6) Finish (3) Stood for (11) Family name (7) Completely (7)

2 1 ' ( ' 6 7 7 ( * 3 ( ( $ ( 5 6 < ( ' 7 ( $ , ' & ( ( 5

easy

Chance (11) Indian state (3) Slow escape of liquid (7) Not affiliated with a major group (5) Machines for converting energy to electricity (10) Meeting (11) People who maintain websites (10) Nature spirit (9) Republic in northwest Africa (7) Radiolocation (5) Confectionery item (5) Frivolously (4) Cobbler (3)

4 5 6 7

ACROSS 1 5 9

No. 100

6 ( ' $ 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

2 3 ( 5 $

No. 100

& $ 5 7 6

SUDOKU

Tuesday, 27 September, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13

networkclassifieds.com.au

Trades & Services

12564788-AV34-22

V Trades Business Profile

SUPPLIERS OF ALL ANIMAL FEEDS Including: Horse Feeds, Bird Seeds, Dog and Cat Feeds, Animal Supplements, Pigeon Feeds and Supplements, Rabbit Food, Poultry Laying, Pellets and Supplements.

Grow your business with

TRADES & SERVICES 12570280-HC39-22

Lot 29 Brooklyn Rd, Melton Sth (100m west of Railway Station) Ph: 9743 5201

From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week. Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.

froggys.com.au www.hsplace.com.au hs place hair studio

Melton’s locally-owned brake & auto care experts

V Deadline

WANTED

Online: networkclassiﬁeds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassiﬁeds.com.au

0403 197 240 - 0403 197 249

(03) 5367 5853 V Bricklayers

AK BRICKLAYING

(include your name, address and phone number)

We accept payment by:

All Types of Bricklaying Restoration Work ฀Brick Fences ฀Repair Work

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS (1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local ofﬁce)

WASHING MACHINES

Contact Adam 0422 250 675 V Builders & Building Services

12545867-CG15-22

Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

Deadline for all classifications is 1:30pm Monday.

Froggys CONTRACTING

Very diverse in all aspects of specialised property services Pergolas • Decks • Retaining Walls • Renovations • Landscaping

Andrew 0425 852 621 | Froggys.com.au | info@froggys.com.au

V Carpenters

TD CARPENTRY

V Bathroom & Kitchens 12420493-CG25-19

Specialising in ✔ Pergolas and deckings ✔ Fencing ✔ Framing ✔ Home Renovations Free Quotes

Kitchens & Bathroom Renovations · Plumbing · Tiling · Electrical · Carpentry · Plastering · One stop shop - Kitchen, bathroom, laundries & renovation needs. · Complete service from start to finish, including kitchen 3D design. · Appliance packages available. · Bathroom tapware, accessories & tiles on display in our showroom. Showroom by appointment only Free Quotes & Mobile Ensuite Hire. terms & conditions apply Please note that we specialise in renovations - we do not do repairs or maintenance

8348 5441

Phone 0401 005 760 12499953-AV25-21

G6638978

V Carpet Cleaning Fletcher’s Carpet Steam Cleaning

3 Standard Rooms for $100 inc GST We also clean: Upholstery and Tile and Grout

www.topedgekitchens.com.au

*conditions apply

20 Years Experience ﬂetcherscarpetcleaning.com.au

Call Paul 0412 816 479

ADVERTISE with us and get better results CALL 1300 666 808 14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

1133473-LB19-14

Specialising in: Tiling Baths Vanities Shower Recesses & Screens Painting Plastering FOR FREE QUOTE CALL MAX ON

12418345-SN21-19

Shop 2, 77-83 High St. Melton, VIC 3337 | www.safeandsoundauto.com.au

M & M BATHROOM RENOVATIONS

Placing your classified advert is so easy...

12533274-HC09-22

Call us on 8732 1720

V Bathroom & Kitchens

12553408-SG23-22

12483035-SN08-21

12412038-FA09-10

12441118-CG07-20

• Brake and Clutch • Logbook Services • Air Conditioning (AU39898) • Suspension • General Repairs • Free Safety Inspections

Leon 0409 637 712

621 Andrew 0425 852

Call 1300 666 808

Operated by brothers, Grahame and Kenny Blackwell, with over 25 years’ experience between them in the automotive industry

Collector looking for front & top loading automatics, 40 years & older. Brands like Frigidaire, Bendix, Wilkins Servis, Inglis, Simpson & Pope Norge.

servic s of specialised property Very diverse in all aspect ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

12435708-LB03-20

9746 9001 info@hsplacehairstudio.com.au

“I’m very happy, advertising works, it has been great for building my business in the building services and handyman areas.” - Andrew

Trades & Services

General Classifieds

V Concrete Products & Services

V Adult Services

NATHAN FENECH CONCRETING

Rainbow Club

12479887-JW04-21

12561969-JC32-22

Residential - Commercial - Industrial All • Footings • Slabs • Foundations • Concrete Paving • Concrete Restorations NO JOB TOO SMALL!

$110/ 30mins Open 7 days

FREE QUOTES Mobile: 0478 129 330 | ABN. 43462185813

48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B

V Engineering

ROSSCO ENGINEERING AND SALES

V For Sale

- Manufacturing - Metals - Engineering On Site - Hydraulic Hoses & Fittings - Powder Coating - Sand Blasting - Custom Fabrication - Welding - Steel Sales - Engineering Supplies

ROB'S SHEEP MANURE, 40 litre bags, $7.00 per bag, minimum delivery 15 bags, sms preferred, 0429 954 259

13 Reddrop St, Bacchus Marsh PH: 5367 1141 AH: 0418 301 841

1229835-ACM22-16

V Clairvoyant /Psychic CLAIRVOYANT Tarot card readings etc. Past, present, future. I can help with problems, jealousy, marriage & bad luck. Phone readings and party bookings available. Call Anna 0433 135 150. V Massage Therapists ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services. RELAXATION MASSAGE 7 days, 10am - 8pm. St Albans. Phone 0458 891 066 or 0438 842 866. V Pets & Services

www.rosscoengineering.com.au

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

V Fencing & Gates

V Garage/Garage Doors

Call Andrew 0417 385 483 www.doorservicesvic.com.au andrew@doorservicesvic.com.au

12398667-SN37-18

F & J ROLLER DOORS REPAIRS & REMOTES Roller Door Remote Controls Silent Drive 7 Year Warranty FROM $500 fully installed

Specialist in • Lawn mowing • Edging Pruning / Hedge Trimming • Regular Maintenance • Rubbish Removals • Tree Lopping • Gutter Cleaning

Find your Local Specialist in our

Call 0430 332 368

Professional Services

G6425413AA-dc5Nov

฀

฀ ฀ ฀

฀

Buy, Rent & Sell in our

Real Estate section of Network Classifieds.

12423634-SN31-19

V Positions Vacant

Ironing and folding

NEED

Olivia 0449 201 556 V Television/Video/Audio

ANTENNA MAN

V Locksmiths

฀

HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS

Top Quality Guaranteed EST. 2008

• Domestic • Commercial • Interior • Exterior • New Homes • Renovation • Plaster Repairs • Home Repairs Call for a Free Quote

0416 561 594 0403 610 782 www.saidaspaintingau.com

V Reblocking/Underpinning

Fill your position online

DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS

0409 888 228

SAIDA’S PAINTING

www.networkclassiﬁeds.com.au

12469374-CG46-20

V Tiling

Motoring

ASAP.E TILING • Bathroom, Kitchen, Toilet Renovation • Small Extension • Carpentry / Plastering • 20yrs. Plus Building Experience ** call Hill now for a free quote **

Tel 04 3277 4645

NICK’S RE-BLOCKING SERVICE

ALL SUBURBS ★ RAISING ★ LEVELLING ★ UNDERPINNING ★ RESTUMPING WITH CONCRETE OR REDGUM STUMPS ★ COUNCIL PERMIT ★ ALL WORK GUARANTEED FREE SMOKE ALARM

PH: 9360 5357 Mobile: 0412 378 193 Registered Building Practitioner

G6795050AA-dc29Apr 1132314-LB19-14

V Tree Lopping/Surgery

V Wrecking

FREE CAR REMOVAL Pay up to $500 for most cars Dead or Alive LMCT 10268W

Melton Tree & Stump Removals ฀

Employment

section of Network Classifieds.

MEMBER OF MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

Reg No 8659

NEW STAFF?

SAME DAY SERVICE

V Painters/Decorators

฀ ฀

FREE QUOTES ★ New & Existing ★ 0421 421 640 Homes

12568118-AV37-22

MIGHTY VESSEL

12567906-MS37-22

RJ GUTTERS

1232632-ACM26-16

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

0428 568 004

24/7 Emergency Locksmiths Mention All Suburbs 0418 534 201 or 0414 930 586 this ad for Shop located at 36 Grant St, 10% off Bacchus Marsh 12557329-NG27-22

V Guttering

V Positions Vacant

OPERATORS AND LABOURER

section of Network Classifieds.

V Laundry Services

Employment

We clean them all!

0419 400 025

Services • Repairs • Maintenance Over 30 years experience, All types of Air Con, Evap Cooler & Gas Heating System AU31693

BACCHUS MARSH LOCKSMITHS

Call Joe 0498 375 094 - 7 days

Find us on

“Couldn’t recommend any more highly, prompt and friendly service!”

12566472-MS36-22

AMAZING GARDEN SERVICES

฀ ฀

Biocycle Aqua Nova Taylex Systems Lachlan Ivers

0412 184 772

V Garden Services

฀

SEPTIC TANK CLEANING SERVICE

KS Heating & Cooling

12567069-JW37-22

• Garage doors • Repairs and New Doors • Remotes and Motors • All Types of Servicing • 24hrs 7 Days • Eftpos Available

฀

IVERS LIQUID WASTE

V Heating

DOOR SERVICES VICTORIA

9746 7785

D.B. HANDYMAN • Tiling • All General Maintenance • Letterboxes • Bathroom Renovations • Fencing • Painting Call Daniel 0417 059 190

12321532-HM36-16

Call Leigh 0409 098 910

V Septic Tanks

12565959-HC35-22

฀

Phone Cherie 0434 638 824

12560928-HC35-22

V Handy Persons 12337176-LB03-17

L.T.J Fencing The real deal in timber and colorbond fencing ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Minns Road, West Melton. Reasonable Fees

12559990-AV30-22

Gates & Pergolas ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ Lou 0412 339 445 Tony 0431 339 739

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ “Your Local Tree & Stump Removalist” ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ 0421 836 152

12327446-LN42-16

Lou’s Colorbond Fencing

Melton Horse Agistment

12559337-DL29-22

Call: 0415 337 192

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

V Agistment

12486015-NG11-21

Fencing & Gates, Sliding Gates, Solar Panel Sliding Gates No Job Too Small, No Job Too Big Free Measuring Quote larryfranklin561@gmail.com

12402755-RA44-18

T HE U LTIMATE F ENCE F ACTORY

7 days a week service Call Gus for a free quotation on

Buy & Sell in our

Motoring section of Network Classifieds.

0435 904 818

12565553-JW35-22

Tuesday, 27 September, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

No stopping knockabout Neelam When a young budding badminton star Om Neelam fell from his bicycle and breaking both wrists, you could be excused for thinking that twist of fate would end his sporting dream. “Both of my arms were in plaster for fourteen weeks and then I was in rehab for another eight weeks to strengthen my wrists,” reflected Neelam. “During that time, I focused on other parts of my body that I could strengthen. I spent many hours squeezing tennis balls and completing sets of exercises to strengthen my legs. Both areas of my body that must be strong to be a good badminton player.” Neelam’s resilience and single-minded focus belies his age. He turned 13 in February. His quiet demeanor and inner strength are two of the reasons he was ranked the number one under-13 player in Victoria in 2021 and ranked number two in the under-15s. This year Neelam is the under-15 national doubles champion and finished as a semi finalist in the under-15 singles where he lost to eventual champion.

Neelam followed his father, Naga’s love of badminton. He picked up his first racquet when he was six, he played in his first tournament at eight. “I would watch my dad play socially and I thought it looked fun,” Neelam said. “I like many things about badminton, you must be fast and agile, the skill and strategy of the game always keeps you on your toes. You have to be thinking all the time and remain mentally strong. You must be physically fit.” Neelam’s training regime is challenging. He wakes up at 5.30am five mornings a week and is at his school gym by 6.45am. He is back in the gym for another hour after school. Neelam has the full support of his school, Maribyrnong Sports Academy. He is currently in the under-17 Victorian state team and required to train at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre each Tuesday. “I have always played against older and stronger people; it adds to the challenge and my improvement. It improves my mental strength.”

Neelam was awarded a Victorian School Sport Award - “Sporting Blue” in badminton in 2021 and a high-performance coaching award. He has won more than 60 titles in various age groups. Neelam has his sights clearly set on representing Australia at the Olympics and winning a gold medal. “I love challenges. I am not overwhelmed by the aim I have set for myself; I am just enjoying it.” The Don Deeble Sports Star 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 either contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631. Peter Howe

Om Neelam.

(Supplied)

Storm signs Irish import

Dijana Vasilevska.

(Local Legends Photography)

Vasilevska league best By Tara Murray Dijana Vasilevska capped off a stunning first Western Region Football League season with Caroline Springs, claiming the league best and fairest award. Vasilevska joined the Lakers from Melton in the Ballarat Football League, making an instant impact at her new club. She would play 16 games as the Lakers capped off the division 1 season with their first premiership. On Thursday night, Vasilevska was named the winner of the women’s division 1 best and fairest award. Vasilevska finished on 17 votes, five clear of Manor Lakers Jaimi Paten. It was a good night for the Lakers women with Jacinta Kondis named the female rookie of the year. Werribee Districts’ Dillion Viojo-Rainbow was named the winner of the Barry Priest Medal, for the best player in division 1. He finished two votes clear of Caroline Springs’ Mitchell Bongiovanni with Altona’s Josh Bench one vote further back. Vijio-Rainbow said he had no idea that he

would be in contention for the medal until the last couple of rounds. He said for him it was one of his best seasons in recent times. “It’s been one of my better years since returning from the VFL,” he said. “I’m just going out and playing footy now and stringing games together this year. “For me, I’m just enjoying football. I’m loving playing football like when I was 13, 14.” Four Caroline Springs players finished in the top 10 with Liam Read, Max Tessari and Ryan Allan also polling well. Lakers’ Dylan Laurie was named male rookie of the year. In other awards, Shaun Campbell won the division 2 best and fairest for a second straight year. Campbell finished on 22 votes, five clear of Point Cook Centrals’ Haidyn Shade. Wyndhamvale’s Mackenzie Parker and Nathan Williams finished a further five votes back. Campbell had earlier been named captain of the team of the year for a second straight

16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

season as well. He guided his side to a grand final, which she lost to Point Cook Centrals. In division 3, Albanvale’s Liam Montrose won the division 3 best and fairest on 17 votes, three votes clear of teammate Reece Duffield. Braybrook’s Nicholas Papakalodoukas was a further vote back in third, while Brookers premiership captain Aidan O’Rafferty finished fourth. In the women’s division 2 competition, Wyndhamvale’s Mariah Burton was the runaway winner on 25 votes. Point Cook Centrals’ Madeline Johnson finished runners up on 16 votes. West Footscray’s Kathleen Gannon finished third, while Caroline Springs’ Kiera Whiely and Caitlyn Volpe rounded out the top five. In other awards, the Suns Dean Cachia was named senior coach of the year while Williamstown Juniors Ellyse Gamble was named the female coach of the year. Point Cook Centrals’ Rebecca Hicks won the division 1 netball best and fairest award, while Point Cook Centrals’ Te Pono Aukaha won the netball division 2 award.

The development of the Sydenham-Hillside female program has taken another step with the club signing its first import. Ireland international Alane Dalzell will join the Storm in October, taking on the captaincy role of the club’s first XI which will play in the Cricket Victoria Women’s Community Cricket Competition. The Storm’s head of cricket Warren Hackney said this was something that the club had been looking at for a couple of years. Dalzell made her one-day debut for Ireland earlier this year. “We’re really excited about it,” Hackney said. “We’ve actually wanted to do this for a few years and it was about getting the right player on the women’s side. “She’s a young talented star and talented prospect. We’re looking to leverage her experience and we will look at her as a role model for the young girls to aspire to. “Not just the young girls, but the senior women as well and teach them on and off the field. “We’re looking forward to having her here.” Hackney said they got in touch with Dazell through one of their new male imports. From there they touched base and got the ball rolling. Dazell will miss the first few rounds and is set to arrive in late October. The signing comes after the club had signed Anthony Alleyne as coach for the women’s program. Alleyne, one of the club’s new imports, played under-19 internationals for the West Indies. Hackney said the experience of both Alleyne and Dazell would help develop the program further. “We’ve got a lot of experience on board,” he said. “ We’ve got high level people who have played internationally. “We want to maximise learnings and teachings girls,” he said. “Hopefully it will help with the development of the girls.” The Storm is set to have two women’s sides for a second straight season. The top side will play on turf in the CVWCCC. A change of structure means they will play in the shield 3 competition. Hackney said they expected to be competitive in that grade. The other will play in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association social competition. Any females keen on playing cricket are encouraged to contact the club. Tara Murray

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Mitch leads Lions coaching change Melton has had to make a coaching change just weeks out from the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west season. The Lions announced that Mitchell Stephens would step into the head coaching role, with Joel Mitchener taking on the assistant coaching role. Both had been part of the club’s coaching panel for this season. The club had earlier appointed Sri Lankan Tharaka Gunaratna as coach for the 2022-23 season. The Sri Lankan has a wealth of experience as a level 2 accredited England Cricket Board coach and has had eight years of playing and coaching experience in Yorkshire and Colombo. Lions president Anthony Gale said the coaching change was beyond their control. “After conversations with him Gunaratna over the weekend, we decided we didn’t think that he wouldn’t get the approval to come to Australia,” he said.

“He has a role over there in terms of coaching pathway cricket and needed a letter of approval to come to Australia and they’re not as free flowing as in the past. “We don’t think he was going to get the approval to come across. We spoke with Mitch when we became less confident it would happen.” Stephens and Mitchener had been taking training while they were waiting for the arrival of Gunaratna. Gale said they had no hesitation in offering Stephens the role. Stephens returned to the club after 10 years in Victorian Premier Cricket. “One door closes and another door opens,” he said. “So much energy in pre-season to date. “There’s a pretty positive energy and everyone is pretty excited.” Stephens is one of two key recruits confirmed for the Lions. Former captain Ben

MacRae also returns after a couple of years off. Gale said they were hopeful another former player would return pending getting approval to travel to Australia. He said they were hoping this year they would have a bit more depth in the squad. The Lions failed to win a game last season. “We have strengthened our batting line up,” he said. “ The boys have worked hard and there’s a few new faces. “We’ve added some new guys through the grades. We think we’ll have a young fellow starting in the first XI. “Hopefully we’ll get the players in the right grades and the boys will have to earn their spots and put pressure on and push for selection.” The Lions are set to start their season on October 1 against Noble Park. Tara Murray

Mitch Stephens (Supplied)

Sports shorts NAB League Western Jets star Jovan Petric has helped Vic Metro claim the NAB AFL under-18 championship title. Petric was part of the team that beat the Allies in the final on Friday, with the Victorians winning, 16.10 (106)-14.6 (90). Petric kicked a goal in the win. Will Ashcroft, who could go number one in the AFL draft, won the Larke Medal as the best player of the championships.

A-League Three attacking players have joined Western United’s inaugural A-League Women’s side. Stacey Papadopoulos, Raquel Deralas and Harriet Withers have all been key players for Calder United in recent years, and have contributed to National Premier League Women’s trebles in 2019 and 2022. Papadopoulos and Withers have signed full contracts, while Deralas has signed a scholarship contract.

NAB League

Cooper Keogh and Jordan Hughes

(Jamie Morey Photography)

Hughes shares top gong By Tara Murray Burnside Heights Jordan Hughes and Coburg Districts’ Cooper Keogh admit they didn’t see eye to eye on the field. The two stars of the Essendon District Football League division 2 competition shared words on the field as both pushed to go deep into finals. But last Wednesday the pair couldn’t be split as they shared the competition’s division 2 best and fairest medal. The two finished on 22 votes to take out the medal. For Hughes, the Bears captain, being at the awards night was something new in itself. “I was just happy to be part of it and recognised in that top five as there were a lot of good players including Cooper in our league. “It’s awesome to be here.” Hughes took his game to another level this year, as he stepped up as one of the Bears leaders in a young side. He said it took him a while to get going after

the COVID break last year. “Once I sort of got into the groove in the pre-season, the match fitness came back reasonably well,” he said. “I thought I was reasonably consistent which I wanted to be. Being one of the older guys at the club, I wanted to be a model of consistency for the younger blokes.” The Bears shocked most people in making finals, but Hughes said internally they had set higher expectations. Their season came to an end in the first week of finals, at the hands of Keogh’s Lions. Hughes played that final with broken ribs disappointed he was restricted to playing at full forward and not in the middle of the ground. “He still kicked six,” Keogh was quick to jump in and say. For Keogh he didn’t know what to expect heading into the awards night. He said it was nice to play a full season of football. “I wasn’t sure what to expect, you get different options on whether you’re chance or not,” he said.

“Someone told me it was only the top two [gets invited] , some said it’s the whole team of the year. “I didn’t know what to expect. It is obviously nice to win it and share it with a great player, someone I hated on the field.” Hughes was named in the team of the year along with teammate Theodore Sapountzis, Liam Mercieca and Anthony Fawcus. Keilor Park’s Paul Guicas was named coach of the team of the year, with Devils star Robbie Castello named captain of the team. In premier division, Strathmore’s Will Jury won the Reynolds Medal. Westmeadows’ Gemma Wright made it back-to-back best and fairests in the women’s premier division. Burnside Heights Krissy Trang, a former winner, and Ilaria Akers finished runners-up. In division 1, Airport West’s Tyson Young and Tullamarine’s Shaun McKernan tied for the Hutchison Medal. Eloise Freeman was the women’s division 1 best and fairest and Cheyene Macumber won the division 2 best and fairest.

A knee injury didn’t derail former Western Jets gun Montana Ham for long as she received an AFLW rising star nomination in just her second game. Ham along with Carlton’s Keeley Skeeper were the round four nominees for the award which recognises the best young talent in the competition. Ham, who grew up in Hillside and played with Keilor recently, had a team-high 20 disposals, four marks, and five tackles in the Sydney Swans’ round four loss to Port Adelaide. Swans coach Scott Gowans said the 18-year-old “showed the way” for the Sydney Swans in her return from injury in round one.

Cricket Both the Victorian Turf and Victorian Sub-District cricket associations will have a delayed start to the season. With heavy rain in recent weeks leaving many grounds in poor condition, both competitions have already made the call on not playing this weekend. The VTCA which had a one-day match scheduled, has moved that game to December 8. The VSDCA originally had a two-day match to start the season, with that match now a one-dayer. FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Tuesday, 27 September, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

New guys ready to make a mark By Tara Murray While Western United’s core has returned there are a few new faces around the squad, keen to make their mark. Whether they’re at the end of their careers like James Troisi or the start like Jake Najdovski they’ve all got the same goal in the end. Troisi has played all over the world and pulled on the green and gold for the Socceroos. He said when the knock at the door came from United, he was excited. “The biggest pull to me was the ambitions of the club and the way they operate,” he said. “I’m still very ambitious and the club is ambitious to have that continued success which is what I want to do. “I knew quite a few people in and around the club and the way they operate.

‘‘

If I’m successful personally, the club will be successful, so I’ll help the club as much as I can

’’

- James Troisi

James Troisi. (James Ross/AAP Image)

Western United FC 2022/2023 fixture

“It just shows on the pitch. There’s a reason for club’s being successful, the way they operate and the way they run themselves is very good. “They’re a championship winning club and I want to be involved in that and help them grow. Troisi is no stranger to Melbourne, having had two stints with Melbourne Victory. He said United had made him feel right at home. “It’s a fantastic environment, it’s one of the biggest things that sticks out to me, the coaching staff, and the staff around the club, it’s a very family orientated club. “It’s easy to fit in.” For Troisi, it’s the first time he has had the opportunity to work under John Aloisi. The two though go way back on the field. “I’ve known [coach] John [Aloisi], but not too well,” he said. “Towards the end of his career and the early stages of my career with the national team I got to be involved with him.” He said they had tweaked a few things from

last year, but not too much had changed. “When you get a bit older you still need to bring what you bring as a footballer and as a person,” he said. “I bring that experience and help the youngsters on the pitch. So whatever I can do to help. If I’m successful personally, the club will be successful, so I’ll help the club as much as I can.” One of those players that is taking in everything the veterans like Troisi is saying is Najdovski. The 17-year-old has been part of the club academy squad and had been playing in the club’s National Premier League side. In July, he put pen to paper on a two-year scholarship deal, becoming part of the club’s A-League program. Najdovski said his first pre-season as part of the A-League side had been an eye-opener. He had taken a little while to adjust to the intensity. “Obviously it’s been very tough, but I couldn’t ask for a better group of boys,” he said. “They’ve all been supportive and welcoming as soon as I come in. I’m working as hard as I can. “The intensity of the training I feel like is very different from the NPL where I came from. “We have the same structures and game plan in the NPL but it is completely different stepping up in the A-League.” NajdovskI said playing in the A-League was something that he had been working for his whole life. He said learning from the likes of Dylan Wenzel-Halls, Dylan Pierias and the rest of the attacking boys had been really good. Life in the A-League caps off a good few months for Najdovski, who helped United’s NPL3 team earn promotion into NPL2 for next season. While excited to be part of the United A-League side, Najdovski hasn’t set any big targets for this season. He made his debut for Western United in their practice match against Adelaide United and then started last Wednesday against the Oakleigh Cannons, scoring his first goal. “I’m just ready to do my job when I’m called to do my best every day at training,” he said. “All the players can improve and that’s what it’s about really.”

Western United are the reigning A-Leagure Men’s champions. (Getty Images)

■ Round

9, December 26 vs Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park

■ Round

1, October 7 vs Melbourne City at AAMI Park

■ Round

10, December 30 vs Brisbane Roar at AAMI Park

■ Round

2, October 16 vs Sydney United at AAMI Park

■ Round

11, January 7 vs Melbourne City at AAMI Park

■ Round

3, October 21 vs Macarthur at AAMI Park

■ Round

12, January 15 vs Newcastle Jets at Mars Stadium

■ Round

4, October 29 vs Central Coast Mariners at Glen Willow Regional Sports Stadium

■ Round

13, January 21 vs Sydney FC at TBC

■ Round

5, November 6 vs Adelaide United at AAMI Park

14, January 28 vs Macarthur at Campbelltown Stadium

■ Round

17, February 17 vs Wellington Phoenix at TBC

■ Round

18, February 25 vs Newcastle Jets at McDonald Jones Stadium

22, April 1 vs Sydney FC at Allianz Stadium 23, April 7 vs Central Coast Mariners at Mars Stadium

■ Round ■ Round

6, November 13 vs Wellington Phoenix at Sky Stadium

■ Round

7, December 10 vs Perth Glory at Macedonia Park 8, December 18 vs Western Sydney Wanderers at AAMI Park

■ Round

15, February 5 vs Western Sydney Wanderers at CommBank Stadium

■ Round

19, March 4 vs Perth Glory at TBC 20, March 13 vs Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park

24, April 16 vs Adelaide United at Coopers Stadium

■ Round

25, April 22 vs Melbourne City at TBC

■ Round ■ Round

18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 27 September, 2022

16, February 11 vs Adelaide United at AAMI Park

21, March 18 vs Brisbane Roar at Moreton Daily Stadium

■ Round

26, April 29 vs Perth Glory at HBF Park

Steven Lustica in action last year. (Getty/Supplied)

It’s business as usual for United By Tara Murray Western United might be the reigning A-League Men’s champions but nothing has changed as the team prepares for the upcoming season. The majority of the squad has returned and coach John Aloisi is back for a second season as they look to build on what they did last season. Steven Lustica was one of the key players in the championship run. He said the group had come back ready to work. “It was very exciting last year, winning the championship was incredible,” he said. “We’ve come into the pre-season from day one, working hard like we always have. “It’s been a long pre-season, but a really good pre-season up until now. We’re coming down to the final weeks and we’re really excited for the start of the season.” Lustica said nothing changed for the group. He said while they were proud of what they had achieved, it was now about looking ahead. “I wouldn’t say it feels different,” he said. “We’re still training the same way we’ve always trained. “We’ve got the same mentality, nothing changes from our end. We’re still going to work just as hard as last year, even more now. “Everyone is expecting things from us now. Teams are going to be strengthened as well and we’ve been working on a lot of things.” Lustica said the new players had fitted in well as the boys returned to a normal pre-season after a COVID interrupted one last year. “We didn’t get many pre-season games last year, it was a lot harder to come together as a group.”

One person who has enjoyed getting a full pre-season is star Leo Lacroix. The Swiss star had an instant impact last season for United. He said he was keen to get back out there again as the side aimed for back-to-back. “It was a longer pre-season and now in three weeks we start the season again,” he said. “I stayed here [over the off season]. My daughter is in school here. We enjoy it here in Melbourne, Victoria, I’m very happy.” Larcroix said having a three month pre-season was foreign to him and admits sometimes it felt long. But he said it was important for not only him but the group. “It was important for the group for everyone to be ready for the season,” he said. “It’s important to do this now and being fresh going into the season. “We have to stay humble, smart and fight every game. Every game is different, we know if we want to deliver the same moment last year, we know what we have to do.” Larcroix said for him the biggest thing would be consistency to ensure that he was helping his teammates. “I’m focused not only on me, but also my teammates and how I can help them,“ he said. “When we win something together, it’s the fruit on top of the cake. We’re confident we can win the trophy. We want to try and keep this trophy with us.” Nicolas Milanovic enjoyed the experience of being part of the United squad and what they did last year. But as one of the young players coming through, there’s plenty of more motivation to go there again and play a bigger role.

“I think it’s good to look forward to something after winning something,” he said. “You have to back it up, so it has pushed us a lot in the pre-season. “I was there but on the bench. It has pushed a lot of the younger lads, who are pushing the guys that are already starting. “It’s a good balance with everyone pushing each other to get to the park. Milanovic said the pre-season training this year had been about building on what they had already done. He said they had raised the bar on the track and wanted to continue to do that with a strong culture among the group. “We’ve brought in some more players, younger and older to fill in spots we obviously needed too,“ he said. “We’ve got a good bunch of lads and good people. That’s what we are about here. “The relationships we have off the field carries on the field. It’s why we work so hard for each other, to win games.“ Personally, Milanovic is hoping to get more game time. His form in the pre-season has been strong including scoring a hat-trick against the Oakleigh Cannons in a practice match last week. “As a young lad work hard and put your head down,” he said. “For me to be ready when the boss needed me. When I get given opportunities I need to take it.” Milanovic said while they were the reigning champs there was still the view that they are the underdogs. It’s that mentality he’s hoping will carry them to another title.

Leo Larcroix (right) celebrates in last year’s grand final. (Joel Carrett/AAP Image)

‘‘

We have to stay humble, smart and fight every game. Every game is different, we know if we want to deliver the same moment last year, we know what we have to do - Leo Lacroix

’’

Tuesday, 27 September, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 19

12527744-MS39-22