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‘Tis the time for Santa It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Taylors Lakes. Watergardens is bringing festive cheer to the community by installing a Christmas tree and filling Town Square with snow, adding a taste of the North Pole to the shopping centre. From Sunday, November 13 to Christmas Eve, Santa will take up his official residence outside Best & Less, so families can take a beloved snapshot. There are also photo sessions available to cater for babies celebrating their first Christmas, early morning sessions for children who may be sensitive to lots of sounds, as well as pet Santa photos. In support of Ronald McDonald House, Watergardens is providing a Christmas gift wrapping station. A child-minding centre, Stay n Play, is open to all shoppers on selected dates and times leading into Christmas. “We have made the centre a one-stop shop for all things Christmas. We can’t wait to start welcoming everyone in, making their experience as relaxing as possible, while continuing to spread the Christmas spirit throughout Watergardens,” centre manager Trish Gardiner said.

Aleah, 7, Arianna,4, and dog Jazzi were excited to meet Santa last week. (Damjan Janevski) 306811_02

Melton’s mowing woes By Liam McNally

Mouhammad Cheaib began mowing Settlers Creek Park so that his son Zaine would have a safe place to play.

After getting no response to his emails, Mr Cheaib eventually took matters into his own hands and spent 12 to 15 hours cleaning, raking, and mowing Settlers Creek Park.

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mowed, or will soon be mowed on its website. Melton mayor Lara Carli said council is working hard to address the grass growth in the municipality. “Recent weather has created the ideal conditions for grass to grow quickly which has increased mowing and maintenance requirements,” she said. “We’re making mowing a priority and appreciate everyone’s patience at this time. The team continues to work extra time, including during wet weather when it is safe to do so. “Additional workers are also providing temporary support, and more people are being recruited to undertake mowing and other maintenance.”

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A Melton South man has cleaned and mowed his local park after becoming frustrated about council’s effort to maintain parklands within the municipality. Mouhammad Cheaib, who lives near Settlers Creek Park, said he sent emails to council on two occasions after he was unable to play with his 16-month-old son in the park due to long grass and mess. “It was just shocking, I’ve never seen anything like it. The grass was overgrown, beer bottles and all sorts of things were in the grass. It was really unsafe,” he said. “We just packed up and went home, my son was really disappointed.”

He did the work over three days, beginning on Monday, November 9, in the mornings before he worked his 12-hour shifts as an industrial cleaner. Mr Cheaib said the grass was up to his knees. “It was just shocking and upsetting to see how the parks have become because of lack of maintenance and no one caring,” he said. “What got me really freaked out was that when I was mowing the lawns there were rats and mice jumping out of the grass. “For the people that do pay rates every year, that $1200 to $1300 we pay a year, I would like to know where that money is going.” In recent months council has been posting a daily schedule of areas that have been recently

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Rockbank-Mt Cottrell is booming By Liam McNally Rockbank-Mt Cotrell had more new dwellings built than anywhere else in the country last year, according to ABS data. An ABS release on October 31 said that the Rockbank - Mt Cottrell SA2 (Statistical Area Level 2) had a net growth of 2138 dwellings in the 2021-22 financial year, more than anywhere else in Australia. ABS Construction Statistics director Daniel Rossi said that on a national level, estimated dwelling stock grew 1.4 per cent. “At the state level, New South Wales had the largest total estimated stock of dwellings

in June 2022, with 3.4 million dwellings,” he said. “Victoria recorded the largest increase in dwelling stock in 2021-22, with net growth of 50,310 dwellings. The Rockbank-Mt Cottrell area has seen significant development in recent years, with suburbs such as Aintree and Mt Atkinson being gazetted in 2017, between the two most recent censuses. Aintree and Bonnie Brook had a combined population of 8,315 at the 2021 census, but Woodlea estate, the primary developer of the suburbs, estimates the figure is now more than 12,500.

Woodlea acting project director Charbel Youssef said Woodlea played a large role in the increase in the area’s dwelling stock. “We are proud of the sustainable growth within Woodlea and the associated benefits it has provided to our residents, the City of Melton municipality and the connection of existing communities,” he said. “Woodlea has set out from day one to be Australia’s benchmark master planned community and the dwelling growth is a direct correlation with Woodlea’s establishment as a destination for Melbourne’s west for a breadth of residents.” Mr Youssef said the dwelling growth

essentially provides a critical mass of population to unlock a myriad of infrastructure and services. “This has underpinned the early delivery of Woodlea Town, Bacchus Marsh Grammar and key local and state government infrastructure, including schools, early learning, sporting precincts, community centres, bus services and upgrades to Rockbank Train Station, which would otherwise not be feasible for early delivery without such growth,” he said. Mr Youssef said Woodlea has sold in excess of 4000 land lots and townhouses since 2016.

Youth forum and awards

Minister for Ageing Colin Brooks, Le Chitts and Victorian Governor Linda Dessau. (Supplied)

Dedicated senior volunteer awarded Mr Chitts received a COTA (Council on the Ageing) Victoria Senior Achiever Award at a ceremony at Government House on Wednesday, October 26 for his years of volunteer work for a plethora of organisations. Mr Chitts said he was reluctant to apply for the award but was convinced by two council workers. “I just enjoy doing it but I like to do it out of the limelight,” he said. Charities closest to Mr Chitts’ heart over the years include Dads to Dad, in which he drew upon his own experience raising a son

Prisoner spends a day on roof of correctional centre An inmate of a western-suburbs prison sparked a police response by climbing onto the roof of the facility. Police responded to reports of a man on a roof at Ravenhall Correctional Centre on Wednesday, November 2. Officers were called to the Boundary Road facility about 10am, and were joined by specialist police negotiators. On the day, a Victoria Police spokesperson said the situation was “dynamic” and requested media not attend to avoid unintentionally escalating the situation. The prisoner voluntarily came down from the roof shortly before 6pm and was assessed by medical staff.

Ravenhall Correctional Centre is a medium-security male prison able to house over 1300 people that has been operating since 2017. It is Victoria’s largest correctional facility and is privately owned by The GEO Group Australia. A Department of Justice and Community Safety spokesperson said the incident at Ravenhall Correctional Centre has been resolved. “Corrections Victoria will support GEO to conduct a thorough review of the incident,“ they said. It is unclear why the prisoner climbed onto the roof.

with autism to support other Melton father’s of children with disabilities, The Gap on Graham, which gives young people a place to eat and spend time on Friday nights instead of being on the streets, and Melton Men’s Group, which he founded and now has 76 members. Mr Chitts said he encourages anyone who has a bit of spare time to get out and volunteer in their community. “There’s a lot of people out there who are in desperate need of help at the moment so please, if you’ve got the time, get out there and help somebody.” he said.

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When Les Chitts moved to Melton almost 43 years ago, he says there were 15,000 people in the community and petrol was 30.9 cents a litre. Times have changed since then, but Mr Chitts still feels lucky to be a part of the community. After raising his family in Melton, Mr Chitts started spending a large portion of his spare time volunteering to make sure that everyone in the community feels as lucky as he does, and he’s just had his efforts recognised at the The Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.

Moorabool council will be hosting a Youth Forum and Awards night on Tuesday, November 17. Moorabool’s Youth Council is inviting Moorabool young people, their families and the community to join a celebration of young people and their achievements at the 2022 Moorabool Youth Forum and Youth Awards. The Moorabool Youth Forum is planned and delivered by young people with the support of council’s Youth Services team for young people and the community and will take place from 6pm at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall. This year’s theme is “be Odd-inary”, encouraging young people to embrace their individuality, to have confidence in themselves and to embrace their uniqueness. There will be music, performances, entertainers, prizes, and a photo booth. Luke S. Kennedy will deliver the keynote speech for the event. Mr Kennedy is an accomplished mental health advocate and bestselling author whose presentation about the importance of being yourself aims to instil deep changes in the resilience, motivation, mental health, confidence, and self-awareness of his audience. The 2022 Youth Awards will be presented at the Moorabool Youth Forum, celebrating young people aged between 13 to 25 years who have made a significant contribution within the community. The winners will be awarded plaques acknowledging their contribution to their community.

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Council calls for full bus review By Liam McNally Both Labor and the Liberals have talked about the need for new bus services but Melton council is calling for a full network review to provide accessible, frequent, connected bus network. Only five of the 47 bus routes in the City of Melton meet the minimum service level criteria, and only one per cent of Melton City residents use the bus as their regular commute. Mayor Lara Carli said the west is in “desperate need” for a comprehensive review of our bus networks to boost use and reliability. “The buses in our city aren’t meeting our growing community’s needs. Whole suburbs

and many other areas in our community have no access to bus services. Frequency is low and unreliable, services are indirect, and travel times are close to twice that of travelling by car,” she said. Council said it has drafted a plan for a reconfigured bus network that updates some existing routes to build a more integrated,

responsive, and accessible local transport system for no additional operating cost. The network would be more expansive and have with 20-minute frequencies at peak times. Nearly 20,000 City of Melton residents who are not currently serviced by a bus route would have one within a five minutes’ walk. The Victorian government is currently undertaking a review of bus networks in Melbourne’s north-east as part of Victoria’s Bus Reform Plan. Melton council is asking for a similar comprehensive approach. Labor has made a pre-election commitment to add a new bus service between Eynesbury and Melton, and announced a new service

between Sunbury and Diggers Rest stations. Victorian Liberals have made a broad commitment to new and expanded bus services state-wide but have not yet made any specific announcements for the City of Melton or the western suburbs. Modelling of possible bus network reconfigurations is available on council’s new interactive transport prospectus, Moving Melton. Cr Carli said council has done the work already. “All we need is a commitment to deliver a network review for the north-west like has been promised for the rest of the north,” she said.

Student’s leaping win A Sydenham-Hillside Primary School pupil has become a state hurdles champion. Jaydin Petovic, 10, took first place in the 9-10 boys 80 metre hurdle race at the Track and Field Primary State Championships on Wednesday, November 2. To get to the state level, Jaydin first had to qualify at the school, district, divisional, and regional levels. Jaydin said he is feeling proud of his achievement. It’s clearly a big achievement to be the best 9-10 year old boys hurdler in Victoria, so yeah, I feel good about it,” he said. Almost missed the race entirely, he said he didn’t know it was on and at the last minute Jaydin’s mum, Aldijana Petovic had to come and pick him up from school, and rush him to Lakeside stadium in Albert Park.

“I was shocked, I had PE that day and everyone was looking for me. We made it on time but it was pretty lucky,” he said. This years’ athletics competition was Jaydin’s first foray into track and he said he practiced by racing around at school with his friends, but he said now it’s something he wants to pursue outside school as well. Ms Petovic said she’s “super proud” of her son’s achievement. “This was completely unexpected, because he’s a soccer player, he’s never done athletics before, so the win was a complete surprise. We’re super proud,” she said. Jaydin also thanked his PE teachers Mr Lake and Mrs Myers for all the help they gave him. Liam McNally

Jaydin has won the state championships for the 9-10 boys hurdles. (Damjan Janevski) 307368_05

Tuesday, 15 November, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 5

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Labor candidate for Kororoit Luba Grigorovitch met with Ross Butterworth to announce a $200,000 funding pledge.

Labor’s charity pledge Labor will provide a $200,000 grant for Western Emergency Relief Network (WERN) to continue to deliver aid services and programs to the community, if it is re-elected on November 26. WERN is a volunteer-run organisation that provides emergency relief and assistance through its member welfare agencies. Its primary service is providing material aid including furniture, appliances and bedding to people in need. WERN administration manager Ross Butterworth said that the bulk of the grant, if obtained, will go toward an elevator to provide all-ability access to their mezzanine style warehouse. Mr Butterworth said the elevator will allow them to expand their work-training program to people with disabilities. “I really appreciate the support from the government, so the grant process is a blessing in its timing because we’ve been on this path for

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six months now trying to raise the additional funds and it is hard work out there in today’s world,” he said. “Hopefully with [Kororoit candidate Luba Grigorovitch’s] help and the support of the government we’ll be able to introduce this program much quicker than we would have.” Ms Grigorovitch pledged the money to WERN at their facility on Tuesday, November 8. She said she is proud of the amount of people in the community that are willing to help vulnerable people. “I’m all for helping the underdog or helping someone when they’re pushed down and my hat goes off to people like Ross and the team here,” she said. “Western Emergency Relief Network is a vital service run by the community, for the community. This $200,000 grant will ensure its dedicated volunteers can continue to serve Kororoit and the western suburbs.” Liam McNally

Homicide Squad detectives have charged a Burnside Heights man following a fatal stabbing in Melbourne’s CBD in October. A 19-year-old man was charged with affray on Wednesday, November 9. The charge follows an incident where emergency services were called to Bourke Street about 5.45am on Sunday, October 30, following reports of a group of people fighting. Two men sustained stab wounds and were taken to hospital in a critical condition, where a 20-year-old Cranbourne man later died. Homicide Squad detectives charged a 23-year-old Seabrook man and a 20-year-old Delahey man with murder, affray, intentionally cause serious injury and intentionally cause injury. The investigation remains ongoing.

Early voting locations Early voting for the state election is currently available at the following Melton and Moorabool addresses: Unit 1, 2–6 Gateway Drive, Melton, 149 Barries Road, Melton West, 8 Grant Street, Bacchus Marsh and Warehouse 1, 328 Eureka Street, Ballarat East.

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Pricing under the pump

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.

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.

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Election bid snakes up

Labor’s $2m reserve pledge

By Liam McNally Jarrod Bingham is a late entry into the state election, and has put his hand up to be an independent candidate for the seat of Melton. By trade, Mr Bingham is a Melton snake catcher of 14 years. Mr Bingham’s first foray into politics was as a Moorabool councillor in 2016. He said his biggest highlights in this time were helping to establish a Bacchus Marsh centre for disadvantaged youth, Studio 22, and the 1000 steps tourist attraction at Bald Hill. He said ever since then he’s been hooked on politics. “Making decisions that really affect people’s lives and create change, I don’t think there’s any better feeling than knowing you’ve been able to make someone’s life a lot better than what it once was,” he said. “If I can make that much of a difference in local, that’s why I want to go even higher. So I can have access to more powers and be able to make more of a difference.” The Bacchus Marsh resident’s platform addresses the neglect he feels Melton has been given by the major parties. His main policies within this campaign include fighting to ensure there are no new taxes, fast-tracking the Melton hospital, duplicating railway lines, upgrading roads and addressing the “emergency services crisis”. Mr Bingham believes the reason there is so much publicity, and promises for the Melton electorate right now is because “Daniel Andrews is genuinely concerned that he’s going to lose the seat”. “It’s a shame that our government invests in votes, they don’t invest in needs, it’s only now that they need the votes that they decide to spend money in the area,” he said. “It’s too late, you’ve had your time, and we’re

Upgrading roads is high on the agenda for Melton candidate Jarrod Bingham, including a diamond interchange for Clarkes Road bridge. (Damjan Janevski) 307400_04

sick of the neglect that we’ve been shown, so let’s show them the door. “I think independents would represent the area better than any party, the parties are trying to appease everybody, with an

NEWS

independent you’re trying to appease the people in your electorate. These people are your bosses.” The Victorian election will be held on Saturday, November 26.

Ian Cowie Recreation Reserve has been promised $2 million for upgrades if Labor wins the state election. Labor candidate for Kororoit Luba Grigorovitch visited the reserve on Sunday, November 6 to pledge the money will go toward upgrading the clubroom facilities. Western Rams Sporting Club president Helena Gonebale said facilities at the reserve are in “dire need” of redevelopment. “It’s quite a significant investment obviously, and it comes at a time when the club is rebuilding in many ways, rebuilding its junior and senior football competitions, and coming off the back of quite a successful netball season,” she said. “The club rooms are in a much need of upgrades and the clubs been working as hard as it can to support its community of supporters and players in facilities that are inadequate. “Western Rams is the most culturally diverse club in its league, it has a really positive culture and a really welcoming environment. To have clubrooms that reflect that positive culture is something that’s going to be really exciting.” Ms Grigorovitch said community sport is part of the fabric of the Kororoit community. “Every week, thousands of locals participate in organised sport which is why Labor is so proud to be investing $2 million towards redevelopment of clubroom facilities at Ian Cowie Recreation Reserve,” she said.

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Website to push infrastructure By Liam McNally Melton council has launched a new interactive prospectus on the area’s transport future, named Moving Melton. The prospectus is delivered as a website that provides a new communications approach to council’s advocacy for infrastructure projects. Moving Melton provides users a way to clearly understand council’s vision for future transport infrastructure and provides an evidence base in order to secure investment. An interactive map shows suggested infrastructure projects, and clicking on them

takes users to a page that denotes the safety and congestion issues with the location, the suggested solution, and the economic benefits of that solution. Council said Moving Melton has been designed to help the state government, local MPS, advocates and council better plan transport projects in Melbourne’s north-west. It covers all transport projects including major arterial roads, rail, bus and active transport. At the heart of the prospectus is new traffic modeling designed by the City of Melton, that uses the most up-to-date and accurate data to

project traffic congestion to 2041. This is then applied to the development of cost benefit analysis across all projects to highlight the economic, environmental and wellbeing outcomes. The prospectus includes illustrations, 3D rendering and the independently assessed cost-benefit ratios for each of the projects including the projected outcomes of the bus network reconfiguration. Council has also undertaken the modeling of investing in the rail electrification of the Melton line. It is demonstrated that without investment trains will be at a crush level by

7.30am without access beyond Melton Station going into the CBD. Mayor Goran Kesic said that Moving Melton provides a clear and fully costed case for upgrading transport in Melton. “Our residents are facing long commutes, high transport costs, less time spent with families and driving on roads that are in urgent need of being upgraded,” he said. “If nothing is done soon, the disadvantage gap between residents in the west and those in the inner city will continue to grow with limited access to good jobs, transport and education.”

Teacher the AFL’s top ambassador A Melton Secondary School teacher has been named the AFL Victoria Secondary School Ambassador of the Year. Robert Aduer was recognised for his efforts in helping to organise the TAC Unity Cup and helping it grow from catering to year 10 and 11 eleven students to also including grades seven and nine. The TAC Unity Cup program is aimed at bringing together a host of different multicultural communities through the vehicle of Australian football. The award was presented at the 2022 AFL Victoria Commmunity Awards at Marvel Stadium on Friday, October 14. Mr Aduer said his main advice to his students is “always be good, and be involved.” “I’m passionate about supporting young people, that’s what inspires me,” he said. “I was supported as a young person by having great mentors and having a school community that valued diverse programs and programs that build the capacity of young people. “Being honoured with that award in marvel stadium was frightening but it was also motivation, it shows how significant our work is for the community.” Mr Aduer is not the only person from Melton Secondary involved with AFL community programs, he is also proud of his students who have been raising funds for flood relief as a part of the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation’s Youth Leadership Project. Year nine students Emily Ellwood, Izabella Loades, and Tialla Wicker collectively raised $242.65 for the CFA by selling chocolate as a part of the program.

Seven sport and active recreation organisations in Melton will receive extra funding as a part of the latest round of the state governments Sporting Club Grants Program. The grants provide clubs up to $1000 for new uniforms and equipment, up to $5,000 for training coaches, officials and volunteers, and up to $5000 to improve club operational effectiveness. Melton MP Steve McGhie announced on Monday, November 7, that Melton City Badminton Club Incorporated received $3454, while Caroline Springs Hockey Club, Eynesbury Cricket Club, Eynesbury Eagles Soccer Club, Melton Valley Golf Club, and Eynesbury Tennis Club all received $1000, and Melton South Football Club received $905. “The Sporting Club Grants Program is giving grassroots sports clubs in Melton the support they need to grow their ranks and help more people than ever play the sports they love,” he said. Community Sport Minister Ros Spence offered her congratulations to the recipients of the funding. “I look forward to seeing a new generation of local champions get their chance to take their sports to a whole new level thanks to this support,” she said. The Sporting Club Grants Program has provided more than $13.8 million to support clubs and last year.

Liam McNally

Robert Auduer Ring said he wants to inspire young people because of mentors that inspired him. (Damjan Janevski) 307121_02

Bringing Down Energy Bills

Sport grants announced

Labor will bring back the SEC.

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Final stage released at beautiful Bellbrook Gardens Enjoy a quality, safe, secure and relaxed lifestyle amidst resort facilities at Bellbrook Gardens Country Club, a popular community for over 55s and retirees. The final stage release has now commenced and is selling fast. This quality freestanding home Villa 129 will be available from April 2023, which is selling for just $786,000 and no Stamp Duty to pay. This home boasts three bedrooms a study, spacious living zones, a well appointed kitchen, outdoor entertaining and a double garage. This highly regarded villa also offers quality appliances and stone bench tops, built in robes to bedrooms, gas central heating and split

system air conditioning, ducted vacuuming, extensive outdoor entertaining, private rear garden, double garage offering direct access to the villa and much more. An opportunity too good to miss. Bellbrook Gardens Country Club is part of the Country Club Living group and is located at 168 Underbank Boulevard and is conveniently located less than five minutes to the centre of Bacchus Marsh and 15 minutes from Melton. Country Club Living is one of the largest family owned retirement village businesses in Australia, providing quality retirement communities for independent living for approximately 2000 residents.

The Bellbrook Gardens community residents and visitors are delighted by the bright and happy atmosphere. You can embrace life and live your retirement just the way you want with independent, secure living and reassurance for yourself and family. Jan, a resident at Bellbrook Gardens, said: “When considering the next stage of my life, my family recommended Bellbrook Gardens and I have not looked back. Downsizing to a quality, easy to maintain two-bedroom villa has been perfect for me. “Our Country Club management goes above and beyond to ensure that we enjoy a wonderful thriving community. I also have

like minded neighbours who are always willing to lend a helping hand. “We have many social activities that we can participate in as much or as little as we like. I particularly enjoy the cinema, attending social events and social walks. I’d highly recommend taking a look.” The Country Club is staffed with on-site management and has a 24-houtr emergency call system. The Country Club bus also commutes residents on shopping and social outings. Visit Bellbrook Gardens on-line at bellbrookgardens.com.au or contact Denise today for your private tour on FreeCall 1800 633 672.

NO STAMP DUTY !

Two Bedrooms, Spacious Open Plan, Second Living/Study, Outdoor Entertaining 3 2 Villa 207 $775,000 | Spacious Epping Design

• Three Bedrooms, Spacious Open Plan, Study, Extensive Outdoor Entertaining

Internal images for illustrative purposes only.

• Secure community

• Bowling green

• Exclusive gym

• Caravan storage

• 24/7 emergency call system

• Low maintenance

• Hair dressing salon

• Country Club bus

• Spacious Country Club

• Resort style facilities

• Live in onsite Manager

• Pet friendly

168 Underbank Blvd Bacchus Marsh 3340

QUALITY, SECURE RETIREMENT LIVING!

bellbrookgardens.com.au

Talk to Denise Sniegowski Your Lifestyle Consultant

0455 910 793 Sole agents for Country Club Living

FREECALL 1800 633 672 Tuesday, 15 November, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 9

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Grant helps feed a need By Liam McNally A Melton church has received a $20,000 grant which it hopes to put towards expanding its community outreach services, which are experiencing increased demand in the tightening economy. Sureway International Christian Ministries received a share of $2.4 million from the latest round of the state government’s Priority Response to Multicultural Communities program, which was announced on Thursday, October 13.

‘‘

We want to see people live a healthy, clean life with assurance and a positive outlook in life

’’

- William Osagiede

The program, which is aimed at helping multicultural and faith organisations in Victoria respond to and recover from COVID-19, has provided $28.9 million to more than 360 community groups since it began. Sureway International Christian Ministries senior pastor Reverend William Osagiede said the foobank service provides for up to 60 people a week, and that lockdowns severely reduced the church’s income. “It was really a blessing to get that [grant],” he said. “A lot of our income, a lot of our support was completely dwindled from 100 per cent to two per cent so the government has come in a very good way. “We are very committed to our community and our surroundings. We want to see people

Dr William Osagiede. (Damjan Janevski) 306013_03

live a healthy, clean life with assurance and a positive outlook in life.” Sureway has been a part of the Melton community for almost 12 years, but Dr Osagiede said cost of living increases have caused a 50 per cent rise in demand for their services. “It’s shocking how our country has become, I’m not blaming anybody, it’s just we see families struggling not only for food, for accommodation, petrol prices,” he said.

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Dr Osagiede encouraged struggling residents to reach out. “We just want to be friends with the people here and help as much as we can,” he said. “Our foodbank is open to everyone, young, old, different races, no matter where you come from, no matter your situation we don’t ask questions. We just require that you come here with a concession card, but if you don’t have one we can see what we can do.”

High hopes for election funds A Melton youth homelessness charity will receive $870,000 dollars from the state government if Labor is re-elected later this month. Melton MP Steve McGhie visited the Hope Street Youth and Family Services on Friday, November 4 to pledge the funding that will help the organisation continue its first response youth service. Hope Street’s programs include a purpose-built youth refuge, providing crisis accommodation, and a mobile outreach service, available 365 days a year to support young people and young families who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Mr McGhie said Hope Street First Response Youth Service is providing crucial, specialist support to young people in the Melton community who are experiencing, or are at risk of homelessness. “This innovative model is helping vulnerable young people break the cycle of homelessness, with the safety of a roof over their heads and other practical support so they can get back on their feet,” he said. “This investment will support Hope Street to continue to help young people and young families in crisis, providing our growing community with the services they need, close to home.” If you or someone you know is 16 to 25 years old and is, or is at risk of experiencing homelessness in the Melton local government area and surrounding suburbs, contact Hope Street’s First Response Mobile Outreach Team. Details: 9132 4300

BE ! K C I QU

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NEWS

Budget pool ‘disappointment’ By Liam McNally Moorabool council is “disappointed” with the lack of funding for its Maddingley pool project in the federal budget. Council has committed $15 million to the indoor pool for the Taverner Street Sports Precinct, and has been lobbying the federal government for a final $15 million since the state government promised $10 million in May. Moorabool council chief executive Derek Madden said he wanted to see more funding for Moorabool projects. “It is disappointing the project wasn’t considered pre-election by either major party, and now not in the new overnment’s first budget, especially considering member for

Ballarat Catherine King committed to the project years ago as an election commitment,” he said. A spokeswoman for Ms King said the Labor government decided to grant $7 million to the indoor pool in 2013 but that funding was cut under the following Coalition government. “The incoming Liberal Coalition government axed some grants under the Regional Development Australia Fund, mostly in Labor seats. The Bacchus Marsh Indoor Swimming centre was one of eight funded projects in the Moorabool council area cancelled by the then Deputy Prime Minister, Nationals MP Warren Truss,” she said. Mr Madden said the federal government changes to the Building Better Regions Fund

might create opportunities in the future to fund projects such as the indoor pool. “Council has been advocating for a change to how the Building Better Regions Program has been managed, and it was clear after many unsuccessful grants that Moorabool and other peri-urban councils were being disadvantaged,” he said. The spokeswoman for Ms King confirmed this sentiment. “The Building Better Regions Fund is being replaced by the Growing Regions program because of a number of severe shortcomings with the program outlined by the Australian National Audit Office, including as the Council CEO has identified, it was difficult for non-Government seats to get applications

funded,” she said. Mr Madden said council looks forward to receiving details of the new fund and welcomes improvements. “We are confident that the work we have done over the last number of years in developing projects that meet the needs of the community will be recognised and supported by the Federal Government,” he said. The government encouraged community groups and local councils to consider applying to the grant when applications open in early 2023. The indoor pool now falls within the constituency of Hawke MP Sam Rae, who said he strongly supports the Bacchus Marsh pool. “I’ll continue to work across all stakeholders to get it built,” he said.

Digital history accolade for Melton A work celebrating the history of Melton was celebrated at the the Victorian Community History Awards. The Victorian Premier’s History Award was the top accolade of the night, and went to ‘Vandemonians: The repressed history of colonial Victoria’ by Janet McCalman. The book recounting the lives of 200 convicts transported to Port Phillip in the 1800s was awarded $5000. The City of Melton 150th Anniversary Online Exhibition, Way Back When, and City of Melton won the Digital Storytelling Award. The online exhibition offers audiences a deep exploration of the area’s rich history and thriving community. The exhibition was created in honour of Melton reaching its 150th year in 2021.

Way Back When consulting historians and the City of Melton worked together with web designer Dimity Mapstone to create the exhibition which can be viewed for free online. The judges of the event commended the work for being comprehensive, user friendly, and including a range of digitised primary sources including photographs, maps, museum artifacts, ephemera, and historical and contemporary artworks. “This entry embodies the idea of ‘Victorian Community History’ by using digital technology in an accessible manner to share the heritage of the Shire of Melton,” they said. “The researchers have worked successfully with local historical societies and council collections to select and interpret items. An empowering narrative addresses Indigenous

histories and contributions, past and present. This project helps members of the Melton community engage with their local natural and built heritage.” The award came with $1500 in prize money. The Victorian Community History Awards are presented by Public Record Office Victoria in partnership with the Royal Historical Society of Victoria to recognise the contributions made by Victorians in the sharing and preservation of the state’s history. Liam McNally Way Back When historians Lucy Bracey and Ellen Spalding accepting an award for the City of Melton 150th Anniversary Online Exhibition. (Supplied)

17 November – 18 December Simply spend $50 in participating stores for a turn to play PLINKO for a chance to win a share of over $15,000 worth of instant prizes! Visit woodgrove.com.au for more details. Terms and conditions apply.

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Tuesday, 15 November, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Combined Churches Caring Melton chief executive Denise Morris has seen a large rise in demand for foodbank services in the past year. (Damjan Janevski) 304121_01

Seniors get ‘raw end of the deal’ Seniors living in Melbourne’s north-west are increasingly struggling to cope with rising living costs, as Liam McNally finds out.

(Damjan Janevski) 306954_01

or thirty years, a normal weekend for Wendy Cavanagh involved going to the footy, and out to lunch with her husband and their friends. They’d worked their entire lives and had no issues providing for their four children. These days though, Ms Cavanagh said a pub lunch would chew through about half of her weekly living allowance. Ms Cavanagh is 82 and her husband, Graham, 76. They are now retired, but rising living costs are stretching their pension paper-thin. They moved into an independent living retirement village in Melton after their old rental became too expensive, but rent still takes up over half their income, and essentials like electricity and groceries are taking up more of what’s left over. Ms Cavanagh said she has to be “very methodical” about how she shops. “One week I’ll do cleaning products and the other I’ll do food. I can’t afford to buy big cuts of meat, I barely eat meat because we really can’t afford it,” she said. In September this year a social worker recommended the Combined Churches Caring Melton’s food bank service to Ms Cavanagh. Ms Cavanagh said she didn’t want to do it, that it felt embarrassing. “It is an embarrassment because when you’ve worked all your life and you’ve been able to provide for a family and look after them and then all of a sudden now there’s just not the money there,” she said. “It was embarrassing, but then on the other hand I’m glad that there was something there that we were able to access that made it possible for us to get through. “We wouldn’t have gotten through that time without them, they were fabulous.” Ms Cavanagh said she feels older people are getting the “raw end of the deal” during the current economic downturn, and Combined Caring Churches Melton chief executive Denise Morris said the Cavanagh’s story is

WENDY CAVANAGH

‘

It is an embarrassment ... all of a sudden now there’s just not the money there Wendy Cavanagh

’

not an isolated case. Ms Morris said that demand for their foodbank service has increased by 58 per cent over the past 12 months, and the largest increase has been in people over 65. She said they used to supply food for eight to 10 over 65’s a month, but in August it was more than 50. “We’ve had a lot of people that have coped well throughout the years that are absolutely distraught that they have to reach out for help,” she said. The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ Consumer Price Index measures household inflation and includes statistics about price change for categories of household expenditure. The consumer price index rose 1.8 per cent in the September quarter, and its annual increase of 7.3 per cent is the highest since 1990. Food and non alcoholic beverages alone

12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 November, 2022

have risen 9 per cent in 12 months. These rises push more and more people into insecure financial situations. Foodbank Australia’s Hunger Report 2022 stated that two million, or 21 per cent, of households in Australia have experienced severe food insecurity in the last year. Food insecurity levels are increasing, with 55 per cent of food insecure households reporting that they can’t afford food more often this year than last year. Foodbank Australia defines severe food insecurity as households that sometimes skip meals, or entire days of eating because there’s no money for food. The Foodbank Hunger Report said that increasing cost of living is the most common reason for food insecurity, with 64 per cent of people citing it as a cause. Jesuit Social Services’ Centre for Just Places executive director Susie Maloney said that older people can often be more at risk for certain indicators of disadvantage, especially chronic illness. Chronic illness is also compounded by other factors such as public health wait times, access to quality housing, and access to quality food. Ms Maloney said disadvantage is complex and has a lot of interconnections, her organisation, Jesuit Social Services released their Dropping Off The Edge report in 2021, which measured 37 aspect disadvantage in different postcodes across Australia. The report indexes Statistical Area Level 2’s and gives them a rating of one to five. Melton, Melton South, and Melton West all received the reports highest rating of one, as did many other suburbs in Melbourne’s west including Werribee East, Sunshine, Altona and Delahey. Ms Maloney said the drivers of disadvantage in these areas exacerbate the effects of rising living costs. “The way in which outer areas have been developed and the lack of services and the provision of services is certainly a feature of what we are seeing,” she said.

“In talking about the cost of living, clearly housing affordability, transport costs, fuel costs, are ongoing and challenging, and particularly for communities living in outer areas. “Growth in outer areas is narrowly framed around ideas of affordability being just affordability of a home, all the other living costs are now becoming much more significant, and so we have to really change the way we think about what affordability means.” Ms Maloney said that the recent federal budget contained some positive signs around the increase in supply of social and affordable housing, but there’s more that needs to be done. She said it’s especially disappointing that there’s no commitment to increase the Jobseeker payment and other income support. Hawke MP Sam Ray said he’s been fighting for the best outcomes for communities in his constituency. “The cost-of-living package will ease the cost of living pressure on households in Melton, Bacchus Marsh and Ballan by providing almost 7,000 local families with access to cheaper childcare, increasing paid parental leave to six months and slashing the cost of medicines at the pharmacy by $12.50 per script,” he said. For Ms Cavanagh, the only option at the moment is to grit her teeth and keep going. “I’d like to be able to just walk into the supermarket and be able to buy a decent piece of steak, but all we can buy is a packet of sausages and then I’ve got to divide them in two, so it lasts for two meals. It’s very frustrating. It’s very depressing,” she said. “You don’t know what’s going on in other people’s lives, you can’t just look at someone and judge them “It’s brought about by the economy really. We haven’t told many people, we haven’t even told the family, but we wouldn’t have got through without [the food bank]. It is what it is.”

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What’s on at Woodgrove to mark the festive season enjoyed by all, without the crowds, queues and noise. Bookings essential.

Woodgrove is ramping up for a fun festive season ahead, as a line-up of Christmas events and holiday happenings have been announced. The Love from Christmas in-store events are taking place until Saturday, December 24 2022, with something for everyone. Add a little joy and Christmas cheer to your shopping list with Woodgrove and join one or more of the following events:

Pet Photography November 12 to November 24 Who says your furry friends have to miss out on meeting Santa for a photo? This year Santa has taken a few language courses to decipher the woofs, meows and squeaks from the family pet. He will know exactly what they are wishing for this Christmas, whether it be an extra juicy bone, a new toy, or a year’s supply of catnip. Book a pet photography session outside Woolworths. Bookings essential.

Santa Photography November 12 to December 24 Dig out the Christmas costumes and festive props and gather your nearest and dearest – Santa’s heading to Woodgrove Shopping Centre ready to have his photo taken in his magical Enchanted Garden located outside Woolworths. This time-honoured tradition is the perfect way to capture the festive memories for years to come, whether you’re grabbing a snap with your nearest and dearest, your besties or your office team. To make the process simple, enjoy online bookings, and convenient pre-pay options. Bookings essential.

Santa’s Breakfast December 3, 8am and 9am Join Santa and his friends for a delicious breakfast and magical entertainment. Tickets $10 each with all proceeds going to Hope Street. Bookings essential.

Black Friday November 25-27 Join Woodgrove this Black Friday for the biggest deals, sweet treats, balloons and more!

Baby’s First Christmas

Spend to Win

November 12 to December 24 This year Woodgrove Shopping Centre offers customers the exclusive opportunity to secure one of the limited Baby’s First Christmas Photography Sessions. Baby’s First Christmas Packages are crafted to encapsulate the perfect seasonal snap of your little bub. These sessions are crafted to create an experience which is extra special for parents and your little one. The experience includes an extended length 10-minute photography session to allow extra time to prep your mini me for the perfect shot. Bookings essential.

November 17 to December 18 Simply spend $50 in participating stores for a turn to play PLINKO and a chance to win a share of over $15,000 worth of instant prizes! Woodgrove will also operate with extended trading hours from December 17-24 and has teamed up with Hope treet to offer gift wrapping for a gold coin donation with all proceeds raised going directly to the cause, all kicking off from December 15. For more information on all of the activities at Woodgrove visit: https://woodgrove. qicre.com/Campaigns/2022/10/Christmas/ Xmas-22_Love-from-Christmas.

From Santa’s Breakfast to Spend To Win, see what’s in-store at Woodgrove this Holiday Season. (Supplied)

Sensitive Santa November 19 to December 11 Every family deserves the opportunity to capture a special Christmas memory with

Santa, so Woodgrove is delighted to bring its Sensitive Santa sessions back in 2022. Woodgrove is creating a low-stress, sensory-friendly environment that can be

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MY PLACE Luke Hodgkin is an Aintree tennis fanatic who gets to pass on his knowledge of the sport for work and was recently nominated for a Tennis Coach of the Year award. He speaks with Liam McNally. help all tennis clubs by connecting members to new hitting partners, creating social groups and record scores from practice matches. It’s called Tennis Mastery. It’s going to be a game changer for all tennis clubs and I hope it will be ready early 2023.

What’s your connection to Melton-Aintree? I am the head tennis coach of Aintree Tennis Club. My coaching business is called In2tennis. What do you like about where you live? Aintree is an amazing place to live. It has so many parks, great schools and plenty of shops with a variety of foods close to home.

What does the Aintree Tennis Club/Tennis coaching mean to you? I started coaching at Aintree tennis club in December 2019. Shortly after starting, COVID restrictions made things really challenging for the next couple of years. At the time, there was so much uncertainty. So, to be back on the court now means everything to me. After opening up again our club grew rapidly. My students grew from zero to 366 over the past year thanks to our unique program with amazing equipment. We use backboards, ball machines, hitting tees, targets and music to make our lessons really fun. It’s like a tennis kid’s dream. When I was a tennis kid I would have loved all this equipment so it means a great deal to be able to pass on my passion for tennis to the kids of our community.

What, if anything, would you change about where you live? Aintree is perfect as it is. From my tennis perspective though. Aintree Tennis Club started as public courts built by Woodlea. Since it was not purpose built to be a tennis club it is lacking basic facilities that come standard in other clubs. For example there are no shelters so if it rains we have to take refuge under an umbrella. There is a Lack of chairs for spectators to watch, No electronic gate system and no club house. That’s what I would love to see change in the future. But you can’t have everything. We are very grateful to have 10 beautiful blue hardcourts and hope that one day longer term council will help us improve the experience for all our members. Where is your favourite local place to spend time? I love going for a walk in Werribee gorge. Its amazing rock faces are as nice as the Grampians and it’s so close to home. Listening to the water trickle down the river and getting some fresh air is very relaxing after a busy week of coaching.

I invented a retractable tennis backboard. It allows players to hit up to 40 shots per minute and sets up in 10 seconds. In my spare time

12544962-AV15-22

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you...

Luke Hodgkin was nominated as a finalist for coaching excellence at the Victorian tennis awards. He came 3rd out of 800 coaches. (Damjan Janevski) 305974_05

14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 November, 2022

I like to learn how to code and I really enjoy graphic design and web development. I am currently working on a tennis app that will

What did it mean to you to be nominated as a finalist for coaching excellence at the Victorian tennis awards? It is a dream come true to work at such a busy and amazing tennis club. We have worked hard and created an amazing program that the kids love. So to be recognised as a finalist is something that I’m really proud of. We felt like we were going above and beyond and doing really unique things but to actually be noticed and recognised feels really amazing. It inspires me and motivates me to achieve more great things in the future.

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COMMUNITY

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

Perfect pollinators Join Katrina Forstner from Buzz & Dig in an online session celebrating Pollinator week on Thursday, November 17, from 6-7.30pm to learn about the benefits of flowering plants and their pollinators, such as bees. n https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/perfectpollinators-tickets-399875587647

Skate park opening Celebrate the opening of the Errington Reserve Urban Plaza on Saturday, November 19, from 10.30am. There will be an official opening at 11am, skate workshops from 11.30am-1pm and a skate jam from 1-2pm. A free barbecue will be available. The urban plaza is at the corner of Main Road East and Percy Street in St Albans

Live music Enjoy live music with local band In the Mood on Saturday, November 19, from 11am at Suffolk Road, Sunshine North. The performance is part of Brimbank council’s Think. Shop. Buy. Dine – and Enjoy Local campaign.

Arts networking evening Artists from across the west are being encouraged to join the Brimbank visual arts team for an evening of networking, food and great conversation on Wednesday, November 30, from 6.30-8.30pm, at St Albans Community Centre, 33 St Albans Road, St Albans. Bookings essential. n https://www.trybooking.com/events/ landing?eid=981163&

Historical Society jubilee The Sunshine & District Historical Society is holding its annual Pioneers lunch and the society’s 50th anniversary golden jubilee at the Sunshine RSL, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine, on Sunday, November 20, at 12.30pm. Cost: $25 per person for a two-course meal. n Kerry Hewson, 0467 680 780, or hewsonkerry@gmail.com.

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Joshua Burgess, who has been collecting artefacts with his metal detector for about 10 years. (Damjan Janevski) 306739_01

takes place at the Eynesbury Heritage Trail, 479 Eynesbury Road, Eynesbury (next to the Discovery Centre), every Sunday, at 8am. Registration: free.: n www.parkrun.com.au/register/

Deer Park Lions Club Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park. n Michael, 0417 307 572

Sunshine Community Brass Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays from 7.30pm. n Andrew, 0419 444 620

St Albans senior citizens St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-1.30pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day. n Roma tel 93383815

Melton Performing Arts Melton Performing Arts [MPA] is a newly established community organisation with a mission to boost the arts in Melton. With musicals, classes, youth programs and even a podcast in the works, MPA is hoping to involve people of all abilities and backgrounds. The first event is a cabaret at Rockbank Hall from 7pm on Friday, December 2. n meltonpa.org.au

Eynesbury Heritage Trail Eynesbury Heritage Trail junior parkrun

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. n Val, 0414 769 605.

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 our activities including; carpet bowls, pool or table tennis. n https://meltonmensgroup.home.blog/

Melton Over 50s Social Group 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. n Marlene, 0498 329 290.

family for a lovely market day out.

all in a relaxed and social setting. If you like playing cards this is for you. n Rosemary, 0407 894 817

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. n Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739

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. n 0406 493 734

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. n Ann, 0425 705 150

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. n Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton South Knit & Natter

Eynesbury Market 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. 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.

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. n 9747 8576

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

Melton Bridge Club 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

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,

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. n 0419 563 016

Tuesday, 15 November, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15

PUZZLES

No. 107

5 7

9 1 4 hard

5 4 3 6

10 11 12 13

AFOOT AIDED ALERT ALIBI ANGER ASIAN ASIDE ASSET BLESS BULLS CANED CRAVE CREEP CROSS DUDED ENROL ERRED FETES FLARE FREED FUNGI

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”.

Today’s Aim: 7 words: Good 11 words: Very good

I M

2 9 6 3 4 8 7 1 5

8 7 9 4 6 5 2 3 1

3 6 4 2 1 7 5 9 8

2 1 5 8 9 3 6 4 7

1 3 6 5 4 8 7 2 9

4 LETTERS ALSO DISC ELSE IDEA INCH KISS LADS LESS REDS REEF SANE SIRS SLAB TOSS

With regards to weather, what does the Beaufort scale measure?

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

Which two greenhouse gases are the primary emissions causing man-made climate change?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

Which atmospheric layer is below the stratosphere?

Dishui Lake is a circular lake in which major world city?

W A F T S A G L O W G R O P E

Ernest Shackleton (pictured) is known for the exploration of which: the Arctic or Antarctica?

Bunga Bunga parties are associated with the scandals of which former national leader?

No. 107

E A C T

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

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18-11-22

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A dreadnaught was a revolutionary, early twentiethcentury kind of what?

10 Mette Frederiksen is the Prime Minister of which Scandinavian country? ANSWERS: 1. Wind speed 2. Carbon dioxide and methane 3. Troposphere 4. Shanghai 5. Antarctica 6. Silvio Berlusconi 7. Tiramisu 8. Panthalassa (Panthalassic Ocean) 9. Battleship 10. Denmark

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No. 107

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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.

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No. 107

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STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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JAf £ fn¹Ǥ

Illustrations light up library

(Supplied)

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

Nursing boss ba nned

Benjamin Millar

By Benjamin Millar

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

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

CNR KEILOR MELT

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About Us The Victorian Country Press Association (VCPA) has been rapidly growing and evolving with the renaissance of independently owned local news media businesses across the country. VCPA is an industry member owned organisation representing regional and local news media across Victoria. The Association provides a range of services to members including industrial relations advice and information, advocating and representation activities, annual awards and conference, training and information, industry updates, networking and sales representation through a whollyowned business trading arm – Regional Media Connect.

• Excellent verbal and written communication. • Organised and able to meet deadlines. • Proven ability to anticipate, identify, and mitigate potential barriers, challenges, or risks to achieving outcomes through use of strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. • Utilise collaborative ways of working that are inclusive, builds cooperation, and encourages information sharing. • Able to travel both inter/intra-state as required.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE • Previous experience working in media or with an industry organisation at a senior level. • Previous extensive experience with management and leadership of staff at a senior level.

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• In-depth understanding of accounting principles including budgeting, balance sheets, income statements, cash flow, and capital planning management.

The EO is appointed by and reports to the Board through the Remuneration and Appointments Sub-Committee.

• A demonstrated commitment to ethical practices.

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• Experience in reporting to a Board of Directors.

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REMUNERATION Remuneration will be negotiated based on the skills and experience of the successful applicant.

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V Positions Vacant

The successful candidate will provide effective stakeholder engagement through representing VCPA and CPA, increasing its profile and engaging with members.

OPERATORS/ LABOURER /WEIGHBRIDGE OPERATOR

To apply: Please submit your resume, including letter of application to:

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Motoring

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0428 568 004 V Positions Vacant

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V Adult Services

Trades & Services

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V Public Notices and Event

• Experience in the use of electronic information systems such as database management and computer applications. Intermediate to advanced Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel).

About the Position

V Positions Vacant

General Notices

SKILLS/CAPABILITIES

An exciting opportunity exists to join Australia’s leading regional news media industry organisation and sales representation body as its Executive Officer.

The agreed purpose of the role is to plan, develop, implement and manage strategies to progress and grow the Victorian Country Press Association.

Ian 0418 539 736 • Richard 0417 415 336 shinecraft@bigpond.com

V To Share

section of Network Classifieds.

Executive Ofﬁcer

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• Animal handling • Petting Zoo • Micro-business • Aquarium maintenance $25 p/h equiv. Please note these are supported jobs and internships offered to young Victorians with neurodiverse barriers. Neurodiverse and intellectual disability applicants encouraged to apply at: www.neurodiversity.org.au/careers Or phone (03) 5261 4172 Neurodiversity Victoria

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DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

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

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Lachlan Ivers

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V Positions Vacant

V Pets & Services

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IVERS LIQUID WASTE

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Tuesday, 15 November, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 19

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Corolla Cross is set for success

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring How this as a recipe for cooking up a successful motor vehicle? Start with the base of Australia’s top-selling brand for the past 25 years, add a badge that’s been around since 1967 and accumulated more than 1.5-million sales here. Then bulk it up to get into the booming compact SUV market, and top it off with the latest in fuel-saving hybrid technology. What you get is the brand-new Toyota Corolla Cross, a compact SUV that is likely to scare the pants of every other competitor in its highly-ompetitive market segment. After a long period when Toyota’s smallest SUV, the RAV4, grew into a mid-sized model leaving the compact field open to numerous competitors from other brands, it now has three vehicles in contention, Yaris Cross, C-HR and now the Corolla Cross. There are three Corolla Cross three variants, GX, GXL and a new name, Atmos. As is the norm with Toyota each comes with a hybrid option which adds between $2500 and $3000 to the price while GXL and Atmos are also available with all-wheel drive. Prices, prior to on-road costs, range from $33,000 for the entry level 2WD GX petrol through to $49,050 for our test vehicle, the Atmos AWD hybrid.

Styling Although it sits on the same platform as the Corolla hatch, the Cross has a totally different body as befitting an SUV. The styling is quite conservative but that’s unlikely to deter the typical Toyota buyer who prefers function over fashion. While it shares much with the Corolla its outer appearance is more mini-RAV4 than maxi-Corolla with a snub-nosed grille featuring the Toyota logo, with blue highlights in the centre. GXL and Atmos add front foglights, enhanced LED headlights and roof rails. The Atmos gets a two-piece panoramic moonroof.

Safety In addition to the usual mandatory safety features all Corolla Cross variants come with eight airbags, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert; and ISOFIX child seat anchors. Also standard in all models is the latest

The all-new Corolla Cross is Toyota’s latest compact SUV.

(Pictures: Supplied)

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 package which adds a pre-collision safety system with pedestrian and cyclist detection, active cruise control, lane trace and departure alert with steering assist, lane change assist with deceleration assist, road sign assist, door exit warning and automatic high beam. In addition, GSX gets parking support brake with vehicle and object detection and a panoramic view monitor. Atmos adds pedestrian detection to the parking support brake feature as well as advanced park assist. Corolla Cross has yet to receive an ANCAP rating but the maximum five points would seem certain.

AT A GLANCE

Infotainment

Toyota Corolla Cross 2.0-litre petrol / electric hybrid five-door wagon

Corolla Cross is the first Toyota in Australia to get the brand’s new multimedia system. The entry-level GX uses an 8.0-inch touchscreen, GXL and Atmos get a 10.5-inch screen. The resolution is sharp and fast to respond with the option of using voice activation. Satellite navigation is standard in the GXL and Atmos. There’s wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto along with a single Type-C USB port in the front console of the GX and two in the centre console of the GXL and Atmos. Behind the steering wheel there’s a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster in the GX and GXL, with a much larger (12.3 inch) one in the Atmos. Corolla Cross also gets the latest version of the Toyota Connected Services communications system that uses the myToyota Connect smartphone app to allow owners to do

20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 November, 2022

MODEL RANGE GX Petrol 2WD: $33,000 GX Hybrid 2WD: $35,500 GXL Petrol 2WD: $36,750 GXL Hybrid 2WD: $39,250 GXL Hybrid AWD: $42,250 Atmos Petrol 2WD: $43,550 Atmos Hybrid 2WD: $46,050 Atmos Hybrid AWD: $49,050 SPECIFICATIONS

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

such things as remotely check the status of the doors and lights, access information such as the vehicle’s last known location and recent trips, or start the engine or climate control.

Driving The taller body of the Corolla Cross assist with access while the higher driving position, large windscreen, side windows and mirrors together with a relatively narrow A-pillar combine to provide excellent visibility to the front and side, only let down a bit by a fairly skinny rear window. There’s a reassuringly solid feel to the Cross

and it’s easy to drive and park around the urban environment which is most likely to be its home with steering which is relatively light but direct and intuitive. Apart from the battery-only start and silent running the Atmos hybrid that we tested had that sharp acceleration that we enjoy in all vehicles with an electric component. Suspension is well-balanced although we did get knocked around when maneuvering through a badly-cratered section of our drive courtesy of some recent flooding. Toyota is playing a waiting game in adopting pure electric and plug-in hybrid technology relying – very successfully – on the hybrid variants that feature across the range with sub- 5.0 L/100 km fuel consumption relatively easily achieved.

Summing up Everything about the new Corolla Cross points to it being a major success for Toyota. The Corolla name brings decades of credibility while the SUV body adds the family-friendly practicality that is so popular at this time. Add it’s neat styling, comparatively spacious interior, capable performance and excellent fuel economy and we expect it to overtake its compact SUV rivals within the next 12 months. All Toyotas now come with a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty. This can be extended to seven years on the engine and driveline, and 10 years on the hybrid battery, subject to all scheduled servicing being done at Toyota dealerships. There is also five-year capped price servicing due every 12 months or 15,000 kilometres at just $230 per visit.

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SPORT

Young batter headed for nationals Hours of batting practice has paid off for Caroline Springs’ Farzan Chowna who has been named in the Victorian metro team for the under-19 national championships. Having not made a state team since under-12s, the young batter has been putting hours of work in behind the scenes. It has paid off, with Chowna to travel to Adelaide in December to play at the nationals. Chowna said it was pretty good to get that recognition. “It’s a good achievement and I get a lot of support wherever I go which is nice,” he said. “It’s taken a lot of hard work and sacrifice. I bat for a couple of hours a day and I have good support with my family, they support me a lot.” Chowna started his cricket at Caroline Springs and played with the club through to under-17s, before moving to Essendon to play

Victorian Premier Cricket. Despite having moved on from the Falcons, the club remains close to his heart. “It’s hard to leave the local club that helped you in the early stages,” he said. “I’m still in contact with Caroline Springs and they have given me a lot of support. I can call on them for anything.” The move to Essendon proved to be the right one as he looked to take his cricket to the next level. After making his premier debut in the 2018-19 season, Chowna made his first XI debut last season playing in 10 games. He said they had really backed him in with the bat and gave him opportunities to get plenty of time at the crease. “The last two to three years they’ve given me a lot of opportunities, I’m grateful for everything they’ve done for me.

“They’ve looked after me and batted me in the top three or four most of the time there. “James Seymour has given me a lot of support too.” As well as Seymour, Harshad Dixit is another that has allowed Chowna to develop his skills. He admits to batting for three to four hours a day and had a really strong pre-season heading into the premier cricket season. “If you want to get to a higher level, you have to train at the level the players higher do.” Chowna said he was looking forward to the national championships and said it would be a good learning experience. He said he doesn’t take any expectations into the event. “I want to bat well and help them win.” Tara Murray

Lions score a strong win

(Essendon Facebook page)

Sports shorts Ballarat FL Bacchus Marsh has suffered a big blow with Daniel Burton not returning to the Ballarat Football League club next season. Burton, a Henderson Medallist, has been one of the competition’s best players since joining the Cobras in 2016. Burton’s junior club, Point Cook, announced last week that the ruck was returning to join them next season under new coach Clay Smith.

By Tara Murray Melton is finally back on the winners list in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association. After going through last season winless, the Lions needed just two matches this season to get the W in the record books in the east-west season. On Saturday, the Lions put in a strong performance with both the bat and ball to account for Croydon. For new playing coach Mitch Stephens the win was exactly what he and the playing group needed. The side’s last win was in January 2021. “It was fantastic,” he said. “Some have seen so many losses in recent years, they needed a win. “The boys needed that and it was the most important thing about winning. They needed that belief that they could do it.” The Lions batted first on their home deck making 7-180 from their overs. Jason Hibbert top scored with 61, while Joel Mitchener and Dylan Jobson put on 50 for the eighth wicket partnership. Stephens said they were happy with that batting performance. “We were confident and the momentum was on our side with the way we finished the innings,” he said. “Mitchener, Jobson and even [Anthony] Hibbert the way they batted out the innings and used all our overs. “Batting out our overs is one of our KPIs [key performance indicators] and we did that.” Then with the ball, it was the Brad Jones show. Jones was at his very best, taking 7-21 off nine overs as the Lions restricted Croydon to 161. Stephens said it was great to see Jones in full flight. “He’s a legend of the club and he showed what a great leader he is,” Stephens said. “Everyone gets around him when he’s playing like that.” Stephens said there was plenty of excitement in the side after the first couple of weeks. “We took a lot of positives from playing against Werribee in the first week,” he said. “It’s the little things that will get you wins. It’s still early in the season and we’re taking it one week at a time and see how the season goes.” The club’s fourth XI also got the points on Saturday and are sitting undefeated after the first two matches. The second XI lost on Saturday, while the third XI didn’t get on the pitch. Stephens said the fourth XI getting wins showed there was a bit of depth at the club, while the confidence was growing throughout the whole group. The first XI will be in action on both Saturday and Sunday this weekend, in

Farzan Chowna.

Soccer Former Melton resident Mathew Leckie has been named in the Australian squad for his third World Cup. Leckie, who played his junior soccer with the Brimbank Stallions, was one of 26 players named in the Australian squad. Jamie Maclaren, Thomas Deng and Aziz Behich, who all played for Green Gully, are also in the squad. The World Cup kicks off on November 26.

GDCA Bacchus Marsh came away with the points in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup. Playing for the first time this season, the Bulls restricted East Sunbury to 98. Armi Wakefield took four wickets. The Bulls hit the winning runs in 30th over, finishing 5-101. Diggers Rest Bulla lost to Sunbury United. The Burras made 8-178, with Sunbury United finishing 7-179 in reply. In the Johnstone Shield, Eynesbury beat Riddell and Aintree lost to Sunbury United.

VTCA Melton South Royals made a winning start to life at Melton Recreation Reserve in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 5. The Royals faced Burnside Springs United in their first game at their new home ground. The Royals made 4-193 with Thiwanka Kekulawala making 101 not out. Burnside Springs were bowled out for 116. Melton Centrals match with Seabrook was a draw with no play getting underway. In division 1, Sydenham-Hillside made it two wins in a row, beating Seddon.

Melton’s Jason Hibbert.

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(Joe Mastroianni). 307768_08

one-dayers against Altona and Spotswood. Stephens said they are keen to see what they can do. “It’s another opportunity to get two games

of cricket,” he said. “It’s really positive around the group and they want to be playing games of cricket which is nice for the coaching group.”

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Tuesday, 15 November, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 21

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Thoroughbreds lock in McCallum New Melton Thoroughbreds’ Big V men’s division 2 coach Mick McCallum is hoping to build consistency in the program for long term success. After an interrupted few seasons with different coaches, the club has announced that McCallum will lead the side going forward. Having grown up at the club, McCallum said he’s excited for the opportunity. “It’s definitely a huge opportunity to be able to take this role on,” he said. “I can’t wait to get it all going and to see if we can keep our off season momentum. “We need to build a team around long term goals of trying to make Melton basketball the best it can be. “And if we can show consistency and good culture at the top level the hope is that it will filter down though the junior sides and make them want to stay in Melton and play for the

men’s team in the future.” McCallum played for the club’s Big V program for a number of years, but then stepped away to spend time with his children. With the kids now wanting to be around basketball he has got back involved. He joined the Big V side as an assistant coach half way through last season. The team finished 10th with six wins last season. McCallum already has a head start ahead of the Big V season, as coach of the club’s inaugural Country Basketball League men’s side. The team is undefeated after six matches. “The goal for me was to lead the CBL team and then run for the Big V job, meaning that the CBL season would act as a pre-season,” McCallum said. The McCallum name isn’t new to

the Thoroughbreds’ Big V coaching program. Mick’s mum Julie McCallum is a championship winning coach at the club. McCallum said is excited to follow in her footsteps. “It feels amazing but then definitely a little daunting too,” he said. “I have taken a lot away from her coaching style and I would be more than happy if I could be half the coach she is.” The Thoroughbreds have also locked in their youth league women’s and youth league men’s coaches for next season. Thoroughbreds operations manager and CBL women’s coach Megan Moody will coach the youth league women’s side. Jason Derby, who is assistant coach of the club’s CBL men’s side will coach the youth league men’s team. Tara Murray

Mick McCallum

(supplied)

Lions’ get second win of the season

Hannah Keane in action for Western United in the pre-season. (Supplied)

Keane scratches an itch By Tara Murray Western United striker Hannah Keane had always wanted a second opportunity to come out to Australia to play in the A-League Women’s competition. After not playing in her first stint while at Melbourne City, Keane went away and worked on her game playing at home in America and in Europe. But the itch to play in Australia still remained in the background. “Last time I was with Melbourne City I thought I had a spot up until the last week,” she said. “They brought in another international, a seasoned pro. I would have picked her over me too. I think I would have been able to do well in this league. “I’ve got a better outlook on soccer and football and come back with all these experiences I have now.” Keane said getting her second chance was the perfect result of the disappointment of last time. She said her signing with United seemed to be the perfect match.

“I reached out to my old NPL [National Premier League] coach at Alamein from the last time I was here,” he said. “I asked if he knew any A-League coaches and whether he could give me some contact details so I could scope out interest. “He goes, ‘in five minutes Mark [Western United coach [Mark Torcaso] is going to call you’. He coached Calder United and he remembered me. “He gave me these spiel and it looked good and I thought I should give it a chance.” Keane would quickly sign on as the club’s first female international player, which she said was really special with the small number of internationals allowed to play in the competition. Keane has already had an impact in the club’s two practice matches, both against Melbourne Victory. She scored the winner in their first match, while she also scored in the side’s win on Thursday against Victory. “I’m really proud of everyone,” she said. “I’m a striker so the aim is to score a lot of goals, but looking more at a non-personal want,

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

I want Western to show what it can be. “They’re training the players really well and there’s a good culture for the girls and the back room staff. “Everyone is putting time and effort and hopefully only good results can come from that.” Keane said that while coach Mark Torcaso isn’t putting much pressure on the group, heading into the season, she said the girls were keen to show they mean business. “Mark says no pressure, it is fine whatever happens,” she said. “We want to show them… We know we can beat them “We’re in our first season at the club. We’re really motivated, and really fired up to go well.” United will play their first match this Saturday against Victory at their home ground in Caroline Springs. Keane said they can’t wait to take to the field. “We’re so ready, but I’m also a little bit nervous,” she said. “We play Victory and they know what we are about as we beat them. It’ll be really fun at home in the west showing the community pathway to the A-League can be successful.”

The Bacchus Marsh Lions men’s side made it two in a row on Saturday night, but fell short on Sunday of three in the Basketball Victoria Country Basketball League north-west competition. Facing the Kyneton Tigers, who are winless, it was the Lions who came out on top. Putting in a dominant display, the Lions won 91-53 in one of their best performances this season. Five players scored double figures led by Zak Martinez who scored 16 points. All but one player hit the scoreboard as they shared the load around. The Lions faced the Castlemaine Cannons on Sunday, losing 75-67. Anthony Bowyer top scored with 15 points. Meanwhile, the Melton Thoroughbreds also came away with the win in the north-west competition. Facing the Castlemaine Cannons, another one of the side’s fighting for a finals spot, the Thoroughbreds jumped out of the blocks, leading 18-9 at quarter time. They continued to increase the lead the next two quarters, leading by 17 points heading into the final quarter. The Cannons saved their best til last, winning the final quarter, but it wasn’t enough with the Thoroughbreds winning 72-63. Blake Allison was the star for the Thoroughbreds with 25 points. The Thoroughbreds remain on top of the table, with a perfect seven from seven this season. In the women’s north-west, the Bacchus Marsh Lions matched it with Kyneton early before the Tigers ran away with the game. The Tigers led by one point at the first break, before increasing the margin to 10 points at the main break. The Lions managed to reduce the margin slightly heading into the final break to eight points, but the Tigers were too strong, winning 71-53. Jordan Wilson top scored for the Lions with 16 points, while Alex Strawhorn put out a dominant display for the Tigers, with 31 points. The Lions sit with two wins after seven rounds. Melton’s women’s side had the bye. Melton and Bacchus Marsh face each other in both the men’s and women’s competition on Sunday.

Hamilton eager for new challenge at Panthers New Melton South coach Jason Hamilton was planning to have a couple of years off coaching. Having coached in both Victoria and Tasmania he was looking to step back from coaching and do other things. But when the Ballarat Football League club came knocking, it was an opportunity that Hamilton couldn’t turn down. He replaces Heath Pritchard as coach. “I’m really looking forward to the opportunity,” Hamilton said. “It’s the big opportunity I was waiting for in my coaching career. “The club reached out to me two or three weeks ago to see if I was doing anything next year. “I had been planning to have a couple of years off to recharge the batteries. We had our first meeting and then a second meeting, and I was happy with what I was hearing from them.” Hamilton comes to the Panthers having

coached in the Western Region and Northern football leagues, while in the Burnie Football League in Tasmania. More recently he has been an assistant coach at St Kilda City. For Hamilton, it was the allure of working with a young group of players that attracted him to the role at Melton South. “I’m really confident that I can get the job done and get the boys back up the table from where they’ve been the last few years,” he said. “Our young guys are improving and are only going to get better. They mean 100 per cent for the club and they’re loyal guys too.” Part of that focus, the club will have an under-18 side back up and running next year. Hamilton said that was pretty excited about having that team. “We’re building a foundation with getting the young guys coming through,” he said. “ It’s really fantastic to get the local talent at the club and in the next two to three years, they’ll be really good senior players.”

Hamilton said they had been talking to a number of senior players to come and join the club for next season. He said while they had a lot of young talent, they needed some more support. “We’re definitely looking to get some recruits with a bit more experience and some mature bodies,” he said. “We’re not looking at one or two superstars, we want to have some more depth across both our sides and help the young ones. “They were being battered around come the end of the game. Hopefully we’ll announce some signings in the next week or two.” Hamilton knows he has a big job as he tries to help the Panthers go from down the bottom of the table. He said it will take some time, saying they were under no illusions it was likely to be a slow rise up the ladder. Tara Murray Jason Hamilton

(Supplied)

United opens its account

Major Delight

(Stuart McCormick)

Stewart’s status grows Emma Stewart’s place in Australian harness racing folklore was further ensconced at Tabcorp Park Melton on Saturday night with the trainer producing a stunning eight victories on Breeders Crown semi-finals night. Stewart was already without peer on Harness Racing Australia’s chronicles for most training wins at a meeting but racing some of the nation’s best two and three-year-olds, her stable reinforced that status. Stewart’s eight victories matched her stable’s feat in the 2018 Vicbred Super Series semi-finals and was only one win shy of the national record, the unprecedented mark she set in Launceston in April. The trainer has also recorded seven wins at single meetings on four occasions and six wins on five occasions, achievements that have her on course for an extraordinary eighth successive state and metropolitan premiership sweep. Six of Saturday night’s victories were secured with reinsman Mark Pitt and the other two by Kate Gath, including the last, when Tough Tilly nosed to victory in the final frame of the TAB Breeders Crown Graduate Mares Free For All. And the success appears set to continue into next Saturday night’s finals, including in the

headline Woodlands Stud three-year-old colts and geldings category. Stewart runner Captain Ravishing looks to have the class in hand after another brilliant performance in tonight’s semi-final, crushing all comers with a 25.9-second last quarter, part of a 53-second last half. “He’s a star,” Stewart’s partner, Clayton Tonkin, said of Captain Ravishing. “Wherever he draws he’s going to be awful hard to beat in the final.” He would draw gate five and, while there’s plenty of class on his inside with Khafaji, Hes Charlies Angel, Ripp and Repelling all drawing better, Captain Ravishing looks set to open a short-priced favourite for the $200,000 final. The class’s other semi-final was won by Barry Purdon and Scott Phelan’s entrant Major Perry, who couldn’t have been more impressive for reinsman Josh Dickie. Having his fourth Victorian start, Major Perry ripped to the front from gate four and from there his semi-final was largely a procession. His main challenger, Interest Free, emerged to his outside with a lap and a half to go and that’d ensure no more advances until the closing stages, enabling a moderate pace until

the final sprint to the line. Major Perry found separation, with Interest Free fading to fourth from the breeze and driven along by Daryl Douglas from a long way out. Khafaji boxed on well to run second, with Roarforroscoe filling the placings to continue his good form with an eye-catcher after only emerging from the pack late. Commander Buzz and Repelling capped the top six qualifiers. The focus now turns to the final and an early burn looks on the cards as those drawn inside on the front row seek a place on the pegs before likely leader Captain Ravishing takes hold. Set to be among that early sprint is trainer-driver Charlene Gusman, who plucked gate two for Hes Charlies Angel. “Next week, we’ll have a think about it but we’ll probably have to try and go forward and cross the one (Khafaji),” Gusman said. “(Hes Charlies Angel) definitely has (gate speed), I’ve been trying to work on him taking a sit. Just to hold him and relax him and educate him a bit more, but with that draw and in that field I’ll probably have to ask him to go forward.” Michael Howard

Western United left it to the dying moments on Sunday to seal its first win of the A-League Men’s season. After claiming just one point from 15 available, the pressure was starting to build on United as teams prepared for the break for the World Cup. Facing Wellington Phoenix on Sunday, United had to do it the hard way. They trailed 1-0 at half time and it became 2-0 in the second half. Jason Tratt scored his first goal for United, to reduce the margin, before United swung the changes. Captain Alessandro Diamanti and international Aleks Prijovic in his first match of the season, came onto the field and gave the side a big boost. Prijovic scored to level the scores as injury time was ticking down. Diamanti would be the hero, scoring from a free kick in the fifth minute of injury time, just before the final whistle to give his side the 3-2 win. It was a relieved United coach John Aloisi after the game. “We felt like we struggled a little bit in the first half especially the first 25 minutes to get the ball off Wellington,” he said. “They were playing really well and we knew they move the ball well as we watched the previous games. “At half time we explained to them why they were able to do that, explained to them what we could do better with the ball, our second half performance was exceptional, we just dominated from start to finish. “We conceded a goal in the second half to go 2-0 down but the boys didn’t drop their heads. We spoke about that before the game that if things go against you, just keep working and keep believing and they did.” Aloisi said the performance showed the character that the team is known for, but had been lacking a little bit at times this season. He said a performance like this could change their season. Tara Murray

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

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