Star Weekly - Northern - 20th December 2022 by Star Weekly

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20 DECEMBER, 2022

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As excited kids across the north eagerly countdown the days until Santa visits, three-week-old Hudson experienced the lead up to his first Christmas sleeping soundly in his brother Mason’s arms, inattentive to the rush of last-minute preparations as the holiday draws closer. As we near the end of 2022, the team at Star Weekly would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and safe and happy New Year. We will return for 2023 on January 17.

Road ‘frustration’ looms By Millicent Spencer Two arterial roads in Craigieburn will be partially closed for seven weeks, leaving residents and business owners bracing for a summer of “inconvenience, congestion, and frustration.” The seven-week construction blitz will take place between Tuesday, January 10 to Tuesday, February 28, with a 24-7 closure of Craigieburn Road between the Hume Highway and Hanson Road intersections. Aitken Boulevard will also be closed between Craigieburn Road and Elevation Boulevard, from 8pm each night as additional lanes are added. Those wishing to access the Hume Highway

during the closure will need to use local roads, as well as Grand Boulevard to the north and Somerton Road to the south. Local business owner and Craigieburn Plaza chairperson Musti Yazici said the impact will be substantial. “We are bracing for the substantial effects [and while] it’s happening we’re trying to battle it,” he said. “This is a small business hub and each and every business is [on] their own. We are working very hard on maintaining our business to get customers through the door.” Craigieburn Plaza will be accessible via Hanson Road and Hamilton Street during the closure.

Mr Yazici said the new year is a very busy time for shop owners in the plaza. “We need all the support we can get to make sure we can survive but thrive through this.” Craigieburn Residents Association’s Dennis Moore said after living in the area for 20 years and seeing the population grow he is concerned about the congestion the road closures will cause. “All of a sudden it’s starting to happen and it’s causing everyone inconvenience, congestion, and frustration,” he said. Mr Moore said he was also concerned about the impacts on Craigieburn Plaza. He said while it will be fantastic when the works are completed, he still fears there will be congestion

due to the extra traffic lights. The Hume Highway intersection is one of seven to be upgraded on Craigieburn Road between Mickleham Road and Hume Highway – with traffic lights added to Balyang Way, Dorchester Street and Cimberwood Drive, while roundabouts will be replaced with traffic lights at Waterview Boulevard and Hardy Avenue. Bridgewater Road will also be closed between Craigieburn Road and Clovelly Drive from Tuesday, January 10 to Wednesday, January 25. Major Road Projects Victoria program director Dipal Sorathia urged motorists to plan ahead during the road closures and thanked drivers for their patience.

Please call 9401 3888 to book a personal meeting and tour with our Principal and learn about our new year 7 programs for 2023 and scholarships now available: General Excellence and Citizenship / The Arts / Innovation and Enterprise / Musical Futures / Health and Sports Science.

Lalor North Secondary College... where EVERY student creates a positive future

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WE CONGRATULATE OUR WONDERFUL CLASS OF 2022 Dux over 95, Increased study scores over 90 and over 80 along with our extremely high completion rate..

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Hunt on for underworld shooters By Cassandra Morgan/AAP Victorian police are hunting two men over the May underworld shooting of 22-year-old Korey Kesici. Detectives say CCTV may hold the key to finding the Mickleham man’s killers, with a man caught on camera near Mr Kesici’s house shortly before the shooting and a second pictured filling a red ute at a petrol station. Officers believe the man near Mr Kesici’s residence was involved in the shooting. The ute – a stolen red Holden Commodore with false number plates – was involved in a drive-off at a service station on the corner of

Main Street and Edgars Road at Thomastown in Melbourne’s north about 11pm on May 4. Half an hour later, it was travelling in a convoy with a white BMW on Donnybrook Road in the direction of Mickleham. After midnight, on May 5, Mr Kesici walked out of his house on Bangalore Way at Mickleham and started speaking to a man or men inside a white BMW parked in the street. It was after he app roached that he was shot a number of times and the BMW sped off. Mr Kesici died at the scene while the vehicle was found on fire a short time later on St Georges Boulevard. The red Holden ute was also found alight

about 7.30pm on May 6 at Beveridge. Police have pored over thousands of hours of CCTV footage as part of their investigation and are calling for public help to identify the two men. The BMW and the ute were stolen – from Tyabb in Melbourne’s southeast on March 27, and Maribyrnong in the city’s north-west on April 8. Adding to the complexity of the investigation, police say Mr Kesici had connections to a number of organised crime groups, including outlaw motorcycle gangs. “What is clear to us is that this was a deliberate, targeted organised crime hit. It was more than a simple street exchange – Korey’s

murder involved a confronting level of public violence,” Detective Acting Superintendent Dean Thomas said on Thursday. “We are hopeful today’s appeal provides us with further avenues of enquiry. “Korey’s heartbroken family deserves answers as to why this happened and we will do everything we can to help provide those answers.” Police released CCTV footage on Thursday of the two stolen cars in convoy, the man outside Mr Kesici’s house, the petrol station drive-off, and the burnt out ute. The shooting itself was also captured on CCTV but was too graphic to release, Superitendent Thomas said.

New libraries for Whittlesea

Romeo Tonna with his nativity scene in his garage. (Damjan Janevski) 312383_03

Craigieburn nativity is a must see Romeo Tonna is back again this year with his handcrafted nativity scene. Mr Tonna has displayed his nativity scene for 12 years in his Craigieburn garage but this could be his last year as crowds fizzle post-COVID. Mr Tonna’s daughter-in-law Maria Tonna said the family would love to see more people

attend this Christmas to encourage her father-in-law to keep displaying his nativity scene for years to come. “We’d love to get a lot more people because that would incentivise him to keep going,” she said. “It’s not something you see every day.” Ms Tonna said there are over 8000 pieces in the set and most of them are handmade.

“The nativity is something they do in Malta,” she said.“He bought pieces back from Malta and one thing led to another and it kept growing. “The scene has running water and lighting effects which you must see to believe.” The nativity scene can be viewed from 8pm on Monday, December 20 onwards at 11 Parramatta Walk, Craigieburn.

Residents in Whittlesea will get two new libraries in Mernda and Wollert next year. At a council meeting on Monday, December 11, administrators unanimously voted in favour of expanding Whittlesea’s library services to accommodate the rising population. Whittlesea’s chair administrator Lydia Wilson said after hearing from multiple residents it was important to address the need for more libraries given the rapid population growth in the municipality. “Libraries play an incredibly important role in the lives of many people, with more than 1.15 million people – or one in every six Victorians – visiting libraries in person each year,” she said. “There are significant pressures on council to ensure there are adequate provisions of library services across the municipality.” The proposed library in Mernda will be located in the Mernda Town Centre Shopping Centre and is expected to open in August 2023. The library will be run in conjunction with council’s community services and provide residents with easy access to programs and resources until a permanent library is built in the town. Ms Wilson said having the community library as part of the shopping centre would make it easier for locals to access information, technology and connect with their community. “Being located near public transport in the Mernda Town Centre means there will be fewer barriers to access for the community,” she said. The Kirrip library will be located in the foyer of the De Rossi Boulevard facility in Wollert East and is expected to open by the end of 2023. Millicent Spencer

Census reveals more people completing higher education New analysis of Australian Bureau of Statistics Census data has been released showing an increased rate of higher education. In 2021, more than half of people aged 15 and over had completed a non-school qualification. This was more than double the rate of people in 1981. The gap between males and females attaining qualifications has also reversed over the last 40 years. In 1981 there were approximately 750,000 more males than females with a non-school qualifications whereas in 2021

there were 110,000 more females than males. Gladstone Park Secondary College principal Veronica Hoy said since she started with the college in 2013, she has seen a large number of graduates go on to further study. “In terms of trends this school has had a high proportion of children applying for tertiary education,” Ms Hoy said. “The number of university choices has increased and what people are choosing to study has diversified. “Universities are also making more prior offers to students [meaning] some students will

know their university course before they get their ATAR which has been a game changer for them.” Ms Hoy said she has not seen a trend in gendered applications for further study with both males and females equally applying to go onto tertiary education. Last Monday students received their ATAR results which will determine their university offers. “Students at the end of year were really happy to have got through a year of real life

school,”Ms Hoy said. “They were able to work more closely with teachers to get the assistance they needed and I’m really happy for them that they got a full final year. Ms Hoy said the students should trust in the thinking they have already put in around their university preferences and use their careers advisors if they are confused about their choices. Millicent Spencer Tuesday, 20 December, 2022 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 3

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Hopes for a pet ‘miracle’

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MARISA DEBATT

ISTA WITH LEXINGT

Second Chance Animal is appealing for support Rescue (SCAR) House for Pets program to keep its Safe The program provides running. for the pets of owners temporary care as victims of domesti facing challenges c and family violence. SCAR chief executiv Debattista said the e Marisa program allowed owners to find safe, permanent housing without worrying about their animals. “We safely house the escaping violent situationpets of people s and look after these animals while their owners seek safe refuge,” she said. “Once they have secured permane nt safe housing we reunite “The tears and look them. owners’ faces when of pure joy on they are reunited with their pets again time is just incredib after a traumatic le.” Ms Debattista said SCAR received calls daily asking for struggling to make help, but that it was ends the program’s continua meet, putting She said SCAR was tion at risk. “looking for a miracle” to keep the refuge Details: secondchancean open. imarescue. com.au

50-metre pool a reality

Michaela Meade

By Michaela Meade

issue in the commun ity, with plans presente The Whittlesea to the former council community will Financial forecasti multiple times in 2019. d be able to dive into a ng at the time revealed Councillors initially 50-metr god-awful political opted to develop the centre would cost $80.3 million, with Whittlesea council e pool from 2025, business nonsense, it’s glorious including see our cases for a centre a $55.7 million 50-metr finally endorsing to with and without group of competition-leng th e pool, compared a 25-metre pool. a $75.6 million, pool to inside two years appointed administrators – including a $51 million for the Mernda Sports as its preferred option – do exactly what the The decision resulted 25-metre elected pool. Hub. previous council couldn’t in in community After numerous reports backlash, with residents 10 years.” A report tabled at council Mr Hogan said calling for a 50-metr last two years, Whittles to council over the pool to be last Tuesday stated e the overall leisure, included. ea’s administrators development” to have it was an “amazing voted last Tuesday aquatics and sports At the time, the the night to include a facility court would cost over $113 council said it couldn’t Chair administrator project promised. 50-metre afford pool in the new sports million. Lydia Wilson said a 50-metre pool. Extend the Pool in precinct. it was the “most Mernda The Mernda Sports significa campaig Then, in Decemb nt” infrastructure n leader project Ryan Hogan said Hub on Plenty Road the administrators he would “believe will house leisure, council’s administratorser, 2020, Whittlesea can swim it when I upon. would ever resolve aquatics and sports it”. resolved to investiga facilities. court two new te designs for “Build it and they “It is a legacy will swim,” he said. The aquatic centre 25-metre pool and the centre – one with a “After years upon has been a contenti the other with a 50-metr importance to the project of paramount ous pool. Whittlesea commun e Whittlesea demand years of the people of Ms ity,” Wilson said. “This proposal … will be and being told ‘we’ll ing this development benefit a to children, families look into it’ and and older people some of all backgro unds.”

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Ginifer Reserve wins funding Hume councillors have approved additional funding of $1.3 million to upgrade the facilities at the Jack Ginifer Reserve Pavilion. Upgrades will be made to the existing social rooms, kitchen, changerooms, official’s rooms, and public toilets. Additionally a building extension was approved to include new player changeroom amenities, storeroom, and office space.

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Whittlesea administrator resigns Whittlesea council administrator Chris Eddy has resigned from the council, a year and a half into his three year term. He was appointed to council following the resignation of former administrator Bruce Billson in 2021. Whittlesea’s chair administrator Lydia Wilson said Mr Eddy resigned due to personal and family reasons. The state government will appoint a new administrator.

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NEWS

Merriang student Angel and glass mascot Gilbert. (Supplied)

New recycling mascot Whittlesea has introduced a new mascot to educate and encourage locals to recycle their glass waste. A call out to local schools to help name the mascot was made and Angel from Merriang Special Development School came up with the winning name of Gilbert. Whittlesea’s chair administrator Lydia Wilson said it was a challenge to choose a winning name. “It was a difficult task picking a name out of the many wonderful suggestions received, but we think Gilbert is a fitting name for our new mascot,” she said. “Gilbert will join Reggie the Recycler and Connie the Composter as our recycling mascots, and you are sure to see them as we

continue to share information about waste and recycling across the [municipality]. Since starting the glass recycling collections in mid-October council has collected almost 340,000 kilograms of glass bottles and jars. Ms Wilson said it was wonderful to see the community embrace the new service so quickly. “We are one of the first metropolitan councils to have rolled out a separate glass recycling bin for residents and to have collected so much in the first few weeks shows what a great job our community have done to sort and separate their recycling,” she said. “All of the glass collected is taken to Visy Recycling where it is processed and turned into new glass bottles and jars.”

Campbellfield company fined A stone benchtop company in Campbellfield has been convicted and fined $325,000 after a worker was crushed and killed by stone slabs weighing more than six tonnes in total. Best Benchtop and Stone Pty Ltd was sentenced in the County Court last week after pleading guilty to two charges of failing to ensure, so far as was reasonably practicable, that its workplace was safe. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Tuesday, 20 December, 2022 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 5

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The region’s best and brightest Nerves turned to elation and relief for VCE students across the region last Monday when long-awaited results were released. Lalor North Secondary College students excel in VCE Year 12 VCE and VCAL students from Lalor Secondary College have excelled in their final exams. College principal Timothy Cottrell said the entire learning community at the school is proud of every student. “With our increased study scores over 90 (dux over 95), and also over 80, and a very high completion rate, our entire learning community is so proud of every last student,” he said. Mr Cottrell said the college is no ordinary learning environment. “Our school has emerged as a highly innovative alternative to the mainstream focussed relentlessly upon the special needs of every individual and their ability to flourish in learning, wellbeing, and community. We are uncompromising in pursuit of this goal that permeates all our activities and programs,” he said. “A stimulating, intimate, and inclusive setting, committed to small student teacher-ratios, we are passionate about academic rigour, positive student outcomes and confident self-image for every young person. “Our young people come to us as children and we wave them off as young adults who continue to create their future. We take this awesome privilege very seriously indeed.”

Senior Lalor North SC maths teacher Peter Olah with students. (Supplied)

Mr Cottrell said secondary education is an important part of a young persons life. “Secondary education is an adventure that should flow seamlessly from the primary years providing excitement, growth, and joy

into adolescence and beyond,” he said. “Therefore, positive student engagement, careful guidance, and genuine, authentic human relationships in learning is our priority.

“Our families are our partners and we join with [them] closely throughout [their] child’s learning experience. So congratulations to our families on their support for their students through their partnership with the college.”

Record results for Hume Anglican Grammar students

Kolbe Catholic College dux Myrtali. (Supplied)

Kolbe Catholic College celebrates VCE scores Celebrations are under way at Kolbe Catholic College in Craigieburn as students scores are revealed. College dux Myrtali achieved an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) of 98.65 ATAR and said she was very relieved. “I’m super happy with the score,” she said. “I definitely did lots of study but I tried to have a balance too. “I did lots of exercise and slept well.” Myrtali achieved a perfect study score of 50 in psychology and hopes to study biomedicine at Melbourne university. Kolbe Catholic College deputy principal Dane Calleja said he was happy with the results. “We’re really proud of all of our students, they have done an exceptional job,” he said. “We always ensure [the students] have the best opportunities to be themselves and thrive.” Myrtali she would encourage future students to use the support systems around them. “Rely on your teachers and ask them for help,” she said. 6 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 December, 2022

Hume Anglican Grammar’s class of 2022 has achieved the “best results in the short history of the college”, according to principal Bill Sweeney. He said 16 per cent of the cohort received an ATAR of 90 and over and 42 per cent received 80 and over. College dux Tamanno Zavqieva achieved an ATAR of 98 and said she hopes her score will secure her a place in medicine. “It’s pretty surreal but I am excited and happy as this brings about so many opportunities,” Tamanno said. “I put quite a bit of effort in this year but I didn’t expect I would get something so amazing. “There was blood, sweat, and tears.” Tamanno put her success down to self care. “I put a lot of pressure on myself in the beginning and when I relieved that pressure everything fell into place,” she said. “I developed a greater sense of mindfulness by walking my dog a lot and swimming. “If you look after yourself then everything is set in place.” Mr Sweeny said he attributes the increasing success to the school’s culture of learning and success. “It’s cool to do well,” he said. “The expectations and standards are set high and students embrace those standards. “The parents also believe in what we are doing and they support the school in the culture of success.” Tamanno said she is looking forward to celebrating her success with dinner and a chocolate cake sometime in the future, but in the meantime she’d be “happy with a zinger box” for lunch! Hume Anglican Grammar dux Tamanno Zavqieva. (Suppplied)

Aitken College dux achieves 94.5 Kayla Perumal is the dux of Aitken College, achieving an ATAR of 94.5. Kayla was one of the college’s captains and said she was proud of her ability to find a balance between study and other commitments. “I was able to balance my study with everything I wanted to enjoy like hanging out

with friends,” she said. “I didn’t want to burn out so every morning I went to the gym, even during the exams.” While Kayla said she didn’t get into her top preference of commerce / law, she was happy to have achieved a score which will allow her to study commerce. “I will know that no matter what I did, I

tried,” she said. “I wanted to make myself and my family proud.” Kayla said she encourages future year 12s to be committed to their studies but also find balance. “Be committed and choose subjects you enjoy – I enjoyed all the subjects I did,” she said.

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NEWS

Hume tribute to stolen children By Millicent Spencer Hume has launched its first Stolen Generation Marker to pay tribute to children who were forcibly removed from their families and communities. The development of the marker was led by a working group including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, community members with direct experience of impacts on the Stolen Generations and representatives from peak bodies including

Connecting Home and Link-Up Victoria. Elected Member of First Peoples Assembly of Victoria Tracey Evans was part of the Stolen Generations Marker Working Group and said the project was an important step in Hume’s relationship with the community. “It’s a real honour to be apart of the working group and to have my story on [the marker],” she said. “It is quite a significant project that further embeds the work that council is doing to [reinforce] the strong and respected partnership

with the Aboriginal community.” Ms Evans said she is a proud Gunditjmara woman and has lived in the area for over 20 years so telling her story through the marker was important to her. “I have my story on there and so does my mum,” she said. “My mum is the sister of the late great Archie Roach.” “Each one of the cloak folds has a story … a number of Stolen Generation Peoples contributed their stories.” Ms Evans said she hopes the marker serves

as a place for people to gather and understand what has occurred. “It’s a space for truth telling, a place for the community to visit,” she said. “The space is near the water [and offers a] connection to country.” The marker is a permanent installation at the Malcolm Creek Wetlands in Craigieburn. Additionally, there is an explanation of the project at the Hume Galleries where people can learn more about the journey in creating the marker.

Hume rolls out welcome mat

Alyssa Barbara at the dance studio.

(Lightwork Media)

Creative leader busting her moves Alyssa Barbara’s moves have secured her the title of Hume’s Young Creative Leader. The 17-year-old Craigieburn local has been dancing for three years and has performed at some of Melbourne’s biggest events including Moomba and the Royal Melbourne Show. Ms Barbara said she was proud to have won the award for her contribution to dance. “When I’m not performing I teach classes on dancing,” she said. “I teach little kids hip-hop so they can build confidence.”

Ms Barbara said there is no better feeling than dancing. “You aren’t focusing on anything else other than the song,” she said. “It doesn’t matter what’s going on at home, work, school – when you’re moving to the music you forget about everything else that’s going on, it’s peaceful. “Feeling the music and feeling yourself, there is nothing better than that.” Ms Barbara said she gravitated towards the style of hip-hop after watching a YouTube

video of the American dance troupe ‘GRaVy Babies’ perform at Body Rock Jr. “I saw that video and I was mesmerised by them, and I started dancing,” she said. “If you could think of a word [to describe hip-hop] it would be fun.” Ms Barbara hopes to dance professionally in the future but in the meantime she will continue to dance at Street Dance Studios in Mitcham.

A new report reveals Hume is one of the most welcoming places for newly arrived refugees. The report titled ‘Settlement in Australia’ reveals Hume is one of three local government areas in Victoria that offer the opportunity for refugees to find support and community. The report found certain qualities make some LGAs preferred ‘settlement cities’ for refugees. These include, the opportunity to find employment, the availability of secure housing, the accessibility to getting education, and the centrality of family and community. Afghan refugee Jalal Ahmadzai came to Australia last year as part of the Kabul airlift evacuation and has lived in Craigieburn since his arrival. Mr Ahmadzai said he feels welcome and supported in his new community. “We feel comfortable because there are many people from many places across the world,” he said. “There are other members of our community living nearby, we can buy the food and other things we are familiar with - and the local council has programs that support us. “We are not different, in Hume being from somewhere else in normal.” Refugee and migrant settlement agency AMES Australia contributed to the paper which found between 2009-2020 there were over 13,000 humanitarian entrants in Hume, meaning thousands of refugees call the municipality home. AMES Australia chief executive Cath Scarth said the report showed the importance of harnessing communities in supporting newcomers to Australia to settle. “Securing employment and housing, like any other Australians, are priorities for newly arrived refugees,” Ms Scarth said. “We can see from the research that having welcoming cities and communities can help deliver these aspirations.”

Millicent Spencer

Mernda’s Repair Cafe honoured with sustainability award Mernda’s repair cafe has been recognised with a top award from Neighbourhood Houses Victoria. The Mernda Community House won the Climate Action award for their repair cafe initiative which invites the community to bring in broken goods for volunteers to repair. The cafe opened in April and has been operating on a monthly basis. Whittlesea council chair administrator Lydia Wilson said the award provided well-deserved recognition for the first repair cafe within the municipality. “Since it opened, the Mernda Repair cafe has provided our community with a fantastic way to not only fix and salvage some of their most

The Mernda Community House won the Climate Action award. (Supplied)

precious items, but also encourages people to think about their waste and alternatives to simply throwing things in the bin,” Ms Wilson

said. “We are so grateful for the time and effort the staff at Mernda Community House and Whittlesea Community Connections put in to running the monthly repair cafes, but also to the wonderful team of skilled volunteers — without them, this service would not be available.” Mernda Community House co-ordinator Paras Christou said she was thrilled for the repair cafe to have received this award. “Our aim for the repair cafe is to reduce waste through empowering individuals to repair items, but to also learn to repair and upcycle items themselves,” Ms Christou said. “We proud to be able to support our

community to live more sustainably and deliver information and educational workshops in addition to the repairs. “The cafe has also provided a space where people can come to connect and engage with others while they have their items repaired or take part in a workshop.” A range of items such as bikes, small electrical items, clothing and jewellery can be repaired by the volunteers at the cafe. The repair cafe is located at Mernda Community House, 2 Heals Road, Mernda. Millicent Spencer

Tuesday, 20 December, 2022 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 7

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Police pleased as crime falls By Millicent Spencer Whittlesea’s rate fell by 15 per cent in the 12 months to September, while Hume recorded a six per cent decline, latest crime statistics data reveals. According to the Crime Statistics Agency, 12,199 offences were recorded in Whittlesea in the year to September, down from 14,360 offences in the previous year. Whittlesea Inspector Chris Allen said it was pleasing to see a decrease in crime across the area.

“Our uniform police in Whittlesea have been committed over the last 12 months in preventing, responding and holding people to account who commit crime in our area,” he said. “Our priority is keeping the community safe and that is what we will continue to focus on.” Inspector Allen said the drop in offences can be attributed to the proactive work conducted by police officers and investigators. “We are also supported by a very proactive criminal investigation unit who make sure that those who commit serious and violent crime

are arrested and brought before the courts,” he said. “Rostering resources at the right time, using intelligence and smart tasking have all contributed to keeping Whittlesea a safe place to live and work. “We are expecting gradual increases as we move further away from the pandemic but police will be working hard to keep crime as low as possible.” In Hume, 17,770 offences were recorded, down from 18,869 offences in the 12 months to September 2021.

Siblings offer healthy dose of cheer Siblings Christian, Matthew, and Zoe helped bring the magic of Christmas to sick children at Northern Health. The budding philanthropists donated toys to the Northern Health Foundation, to distribute to kids who will be spending the festive season in hospital this year. Christian, Matthew and Zoe saved their allowances and birthday money to purchase the toys for the children. Mum Helen Fagnani said the donation was inspired by the conversations the family had at home about those in hospital who would have to be away from their own families over Christmas. “It’s great for the kids to be thinking about what they have and not taking it for granted,” she said. “It’s always good to give back to the community – I’m so proud of them.” Ms Fagnani said she hopes they can turn the good deed into an annual family tradition.

Despite Hume’s overall crime rate drop, Broadmeadows experienced a 6 per cent increase in crime in 2022 compared to the same period in 2021. Increases were in property and deception offences, and justice procedures offences. Hume Inspector Dean Clinton said the increase in Broadmeadows can be attributed to the transition out of COVID. “We find these crimes do fluctuate, and as we have transitioned out of COVID, we are seeing property offences increase, as more people are out and about,” he said.

New name for animal facility The Epping Animal Welfare Facility will be renamed to the wat djerring Animal Facility. The new name comes after the facility was recently relaunched under the management of Whittlesea council in partnership with Merri-bek and Darebin councils. The new name means ‘we together’ and was chosen after consultation with the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation (WWWCHAC). Whittlesea council administrators endorsed the name change last Monday, and will now submit it to Geographic Names Victoria for formal approval. Council’s chair administrator Lydia Wilson said it was part of a new era for the facility. “The facility operates as the pound for three councils and we wanted a more inclusive name that acknowledged the cultural heritage of the land and reflected the purpose of the facility; to reconnect people with their pets and to give animals a fresh start,” she said. “I’d like to thank the WWWCHAC for their support in suggesting such a meaningful rich name that really captures the strong values our community places on pet ownership and in so doing helps to bring to life the vision for a new beginning for the facility.” Administrator Chris Eddy said he supported the name change but it was important the community was educated on the renaming. “The title obliviously will take some getting used to for people,“ he said. “Once people get to understand the meeting and practice the name I think it will become part of the community in no time at all. The new name will be accompanied with new branding designed by Aboriginal artist De GreerYindimincarlie at YindiArtz.

Millicent Spencer

Christian and Matthew with some of the toys. Left: Northern Health volunteers Carmen and Mandy help the boys unload the toys. (Pictures: Supplied)

Patten loses upper house seat, as Somyurek is re-elected Reason Party Leader Fiona Patten has conceded her upper house seat of Northern Metropolitan Melbourne to former Labor MP Adem Somyurek. Ms Patten held the seat for eight years and said the result was “disappointing”. “It’s been such an uplifting, enlightening privilege to serve the voters of this vast and diverse population, and to have achieved progressive change,” she said. “I certainly won’t die wondering.” Ms Patten said she was proud of the legislative changes her team achieved including passing assisted dying legislation, extending protection 8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 December, 2022

for minors in state care, legislating exclusion zones around abortion clinics, and advocating for drug law reforms by pushing for medically supervised injecting rooms. “Politics and public policy have always been for me about evidence and first principles including equality of opportunity, accountability, transparency, effectiveness, and compassion,” she said. “These are the things I think about most when I reflect on my involvement in the Parliament. “Victoria now leads the nation in progressive politics and with assisted dying and safe access

zones in particular, has initiated national change.” Mr Somyurek said he is feeling good about his new appointment and hopes to represent the “forgotten people” of the north. “The seats I targeted were Broadmeadows, Kalkallo, Greenvale, and Thomastown… I am keen to represent those forgotten people,” he said. “The Labor DLP is the party of the outer suburbs that gives a voice to working families. Mr Somyurek said his experience as a parliamentarian will stand him in good stead to represent his electorate. He was forced to quit

the Labor Party in 2020 following allegations of branch stacking. “I know the Labor government, and I know Daniel Andrews,” he said. “These are the attributes that will be important.” Mr Somyurek said although he has always been part of a major party he is looking forward to the challenge of being on his own in the chamber. “I am feeling delighted and rejuvenated,” he said. “My number one priority is to hold the Andrews government to account.” Millicent Spencer

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Four decades of caring

$900 million plasma facility

By Millicent Spencer Alice Crawford has packed her scrubs away after 42 years as a maternal and child health nurse with Whittlesea council. Ms Crawford said over the last four decades she has seen numerous changes to the profession, but her passion for nursing always remained. “When I started 40 years ago there were only about 12 of us [nurses], the council was very small … things were very different,” she said. “I always knew I wanted to work in the community – working with mothers, babies, and children.” Prior to working for council Ms Crawford worked in midwifery, district nursing, and private nursing, however when she arrived at Whittlesea she knew she had found her forever home. “When I started working at council I knew I would be there forever,” she said. “What kept me in the job was knowing that I was helping mothers with their children. “I got to see them grow into being more confident mothers who believed in themselves more.” Ms Crawford said she has many special memories from her expansive career, but one particularly stands out. “I worked in Epping and there was a Sri Lankan couple who had triplets, and they had no family here in Australia. They lived in a two-bedroom flat with no help whatsoever, so I rang the parish priest in Epping and asked if we could get some support for this family,” she said. “He arranged for some mothers to come to the house and help the mother during the day, so the daytime was good but night time wasn’t. So I approached Whittlesea and [arranged] for a Mothercraft nurse to come in the night so the parents could sleep.

A $900 million plasma facility will open in Broadmeadows to meet the demand of lifesaving plasma-based therapies for patients both locally and globally. The investment will expand on the current CSL facilities and allow the company to increase capacity nine-fold, producing 9.2 million plasma equivalent litres per annum. CSL chief executive and managing director Paul Perreault said the expansion of the existing facilities will benefit both patients and those in biopharma manufacturing. “With the construction of this new facility in Victoria, CSL will continue to meet the increasing demand for our plasma biotherapies not only in Australia, but also for our patients worldwide who rely on us every day,” he said. “It also ensures we are developing the skills and expertise locally to support advanced manufacturing in Australia.” Plasma-derived therapies treat those with immunodeficiencies, neurological disorders, shock and burns. They are used in operating rooms around the world for transplant patients, surgical patients and cancer patients. The new CSL Fractionation Facility in Broadmeadows will be the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. The facility will process domestic plasma from Australian, New Zealand, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Malaysian donor plasma, in addition to commercially sourced plasma through CSL Plasma (a subsidiary of CSL), one of the world’s largest collectors of human plasma.

Alice Crawford at work in Whittlesea 22 years ago, and pictured teaching a baby massage technique. (Pictures: Supplied)

“The big thrill for me was when these triplets turned one I got an invitation to their first birthday party. They were a beautiful family and I often wonder what ever happened to those triplets.” Ms Crawford said she has seen the many changes in Whittlesea but these these only made her job more interesting. “Over the last 40 years we’ve had asylum seekers and refugees, which means we’ve used more interpreters,” she said. “This changed our role a bit because it made it more diverse and allowed us to accommodate all families.”

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Now in retirement Ms Crawford hopes to spend more time with her grandchildren and travel the country in her caravan. Ms Crawford said passion is key for anyone wanting to join the nursing profession. “You have to have a passion, once I started I never wanted to leave,” she said. “There is also a lot of job satisfaction as you’re helping lots of people. “You should also find a workplace you love, because if you don’t love the people you work with you’re not going to stay. The support and love I had from my colleagues kept me at council.”

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Push on for better bus services By Millicent Spencer A new discussion paper published by Infrastructure Victoria revealed that much more could be made of Melbourne’s bus network. The report found that buses are rarely a competitive alternative to cars and other transport largely due to low frequencies, limited operating hours, and slow and complex routes which make buses less appealing to commuters. One of the major problems the report found was that existing bus networks are contributing

to an equity problem, especially for outer and new growth areas of Melbourne. Broadmeadows Progress Association’s Sonja Rutherford said the bus network is a community concern. “We were up at Craigieburn on the weekend and were noting the development, and wondering how these people use public transport, ” she said. “An efficient bus service is extremely important if people are going to be able to access the rail lines, shopping centres, or their various needs in the area.” Ms Rutherford said the lack of accessible

public transport is leading to more congestion on the roads. “With the development we saw in Craigieburn, keeping cars is a problem,” she said. “Anything that makes public transport usable is good for residents as it will address the unbelievable congestion within the area. “It’s extremely important to improve the buses but it must be accessible and reflect the needs of each area.” Hume mayor Joseph Haweil said reliable public transport plays a significant role in the day to day lives of residents.

“Introducing expanded bus routes is particularly pivotal in our growth areas, particularly for residents that are unable to easily access existing routes,” he said. “Hume city urgently requires public transport investment that relieves existing congestion and future proofs our region for significant growth in coming years. “It is vital that our community can get to work, see their doctor and visit family and friends using a bus network that is fast, reliable and built for the future.” Infrastructure Victoria will publish a final report including recommenations in late 2023.

Scholarships to help year ten students

Paralympic gold medallist Heath Davidson with fellow wheelchair tennis players.

(Supplied)

Wheelchair tennis action heats up Celebrations were under way at the Hume Tennis Centre on Thursday as players and officials launched the Australian Wheelchair Tennis Summer Series. Commencing January 10, the world’s best wheelchair tennis players will compete at the Hume Tennis Centre, allowing locals to witness tennis stars up close on their doorsteps. Hume Tennis Centre managing director Tim Connelly said he was looking forward to the matches starting in the new year. “To have the world’s best wheelchair tennis players compete at Hume Tennis prior to playing at the Australian Open is a privilege and an opportunity for the community to experience world class sport,” he said. The players will compete across men’s, women’s and quad fields. Players include, world No.1 and defending champions Diede De Groot and Shingo Kunieda who will lead the women’s and men’s field respectively, and world No.1 Niels Vink and Sam Schroder leading the Quad field.

“Each tournament day there will be a feature match from 5pm allowing for people to enjoy after work action,” Mr Connelly said. “During the Melbourne Wheelchair Tennis Open, January 16-20, the club will have the Australian Open playing on the big outdoor screen, so people will be able to enjoy the best of both events.” Tourism Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos said the event would bring visitors to the state. “We’re backing a spectacular summer of blockbuster events that will draw tens of thousands of visitors to the state, boosting local jobs and businesses whilst putting Victoria front of mind for spectators across the globe,” he said. “Tournaments like the Victorian Wheelchair Open give fans the chance to see top athletes in action, while providing a vital pathway for the next generation of sporting greats.”

Tennis Australia head of players with disability Dani Gescheit, Hume Tennis Centre manager Tim Connelly, Paralympic gold medallist Heath Davidson, Hume deputy mayor Karen Sherry, and Stockland state economic development manager Teresa Maguire. (Supplied)

Hume council will offer a new scholarship program for year 10 students from 2023. The Youth Opportunities Scholarships will be awarded to students who are experiencing hardship while also demonstrating a continued effort and progression towards achieving their goals. Students can be nominated by their schools for either a financial support scholarship of $1000 to provide assistance towards purchasing textbooks or specialist equipment, or a $1000 tutoring support scholarship to pay for tutoring. Hume mayor Joseph Haweil said he hopes the scholarship program will fill a gap that has been identified by council. “We’ve identified a gap in our support and award recognition services at that very critical year 9 level at high school,” he said. “I think it is our responsibility to support and encourage young people in Hume.” Councillors also agreed to further expand the current Educational Scholarships program by offering all grade 6 students in the municipality two swim vouchers from 2023. Cr Haweil said the vouchers will act as an incentive for students in their final years of primary school but also recognise their educational journey. “Students will be able to make use of them over the summer at the end of their graduation [while also] enhancing their health and wellbeing,” he said. “Throughout this suite of programs what we are committing to do is both recognising, supporting, and encouraging young people throughout their journey at high school through a range of support programs.” Millicent Spencer

Police impound cars in a clamp down on hoon behaviour Police charged three alleged hoon drivers at a hoon meet in Thomastown last week. Police allege several vehicles congregated at Northgate Drive and Brand Avenue in Thomastown on Monday, December 12, to perform burnouts in front of a crowd of people. Police were called to the area about 9.30pm. Three cars were impounded by police, including a 1994 blue Ford Falcon sedan, a 2000 white Holden Commodore sedan, and a 2003 Toyota Corolla The three men arrested include a 23-year-old 10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 December, 2022

man from Mill Park, a 21-year-old man from Craigieburn, and a 19-year-old man from Point Cook. Police will also allege those involved in Monday event were a part of another hoon meet last month. It’s alleged several vehicles congregated at the intersection of Ovata Drive and Salinga Drive in Tullamarine about 11.40pm on November 14. The incident was not reported to police on the night, but in the following days afterwards a nearby business who noticed the damage on

the street reported the matter. All three men have been charged with reckless conduct endangering life, reckless conduct endangering serious injury, driving in a dangerous manner, improper use of a motor vehicle and multiple traffic offences. They have all been bailed to appear at Sunshine Magistrates Court on June 6. Since Operation Achilles began in January, police have arrested 67 hoon drivers, organisers, and spectators and have impounded 100 vehicles. North West Metropolitan Region Achilles

Taskforce member, acting senior sergeant Simon Borg, said anyone involved in hooning will be caught. “We do not just target hoon drivers as part of Operation Achilles, but also those who organise, attend and ultimately fuel organised hoon driving events,” he said. “The dedicated police working as part of the Achilles Taskforce have a comprehensive understanding of the hoon environment in Melbourne’s north-west.” Millicent Spencer

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BEHIND THE NEWS

Melburnian of the Year makes her mark Melburnian of the Year Antoinette Braybrook talks to Liam McNally about growing up in Melton, her work with Djirra and what the award means to her.

Antionette Braybrook was awarded Melburnian of the Year on November 14, 2022. (Pictu res: Suppl

hen Djirra chief executive Antoinette Braybrook was named the Melburnian of the Year in November, she said she was “deeply honoured” but it was “hard to believe ’’ she was the first Aboriginal person to receive the accolade in its 20-year existence. “I dedicate this honour to Aboriginal women, recognising the strength and courage of every Aboriginal woman who has put her trust in me and our organisation Djirra for over two decades,” she said. Djirra is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who experience family violence, predominantly women and their children. Ms Braybrook has been leading Djirra since its inception in 2002.

‘‘

I tackle it head on. I try not to let it diminish me

’’

- Antionette Braybrook Ms Braybrook’s family line is through the Kuku Yalanji, North Queensland, but she was born in Melton, on Wurundjeri country. She said she has a “really strong” connection to Melton. Fifty years ago, hers was the only Aboriginal family she knew of in the area. Her family made inroads to connecting with the community through sport – her mother being “instrumental” in setting up what is now the Melton Netball Association and her father and brothers playing for Melton South Football Club. Despite the “many strong friendships” she maintains, she wouldn’t “say it was easy” growing up in Melton. “We experienced racism,” she said. She said this racism was the catalyst for her leaving school at just 15. “I left school with really low self-confidence. I had no self worth, I just felt like I was not valued in any way, and that was difficult to reconcile – at home, my mum and dad always made us feel proud of our culture and identity, but outside of the family home we were made to feel the lesser,” she said. Ms Braybrook “pushed through” these

Antionette Braybrook has been the chief executive of Djirra since its inception in 2002. (Tiffany Garvie)

feelings throughout her early working life, with the help of “strong family and support networks,” and at age 30 enrolled in a law degree. “It was overwhelming, and scary. I felt like an imposter, but I did it, and here we are,” she said. She said the proudest aspect of her career is Djirra’s work and growth, whose staff are 40 per cent Aboriginal women in 101 funded positions spread across nine offices in Victoria. The organisation is working towards opening an office in her home town of Melton next year, which has the third highest rates of family violence in greater Melbourne, and the fastest growing Aboriginal population. Another career highlight was making four interventions at the United Nations 41st session in 2019 around the high removal rates of Aboriginal children, Aboriginal women

being the fastest growing prison population in Australia, punitive income management programs and solutions to addressing the high rates of violence against Aboriginal women. Ms Braybrook said the interventions were about “keeping Aboriginal women visible,” which she also intends to do with the Melburnian of the Year award, including by hopefully building the first Aboriginal Women’s Centre in Melbourne. She said violence against Aboriginal women is “continuing to rise”. “In Victoria, Aboriginal women are 45 times more likely to experience family violence and 25 times more likely to die from a violent assault than other women,” she said. “I also want to point out that we know that around 90 per cent of the violence against our women, our people, goes unreported. So these numbers really do not speak the truth.”

ied/Jesse Spezza)

One of Djirra’s biggest calls nationally is to have a dedicated national plan to end violence against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and their children, “because we don’t want to be lost and invisible in mainstream plans.” Ms Braybrook said her work is a “lifelong commitment”, both in the family violence sector and wider aspects of racism. “Racism isn’t just isolated to one area, I think that it’s still very much alive and thriving across the country,” she said. “It impacted significantly on my life, but now I tackle it head on. I try not to let it diminish me.” In the current political climate there’s national attention on Aboriginal issues, with the Closing the Gap report, Voice to Parliament, federal laws protecting indigenous sites, and the inquiry into Missing and Murdered First Nations Women and Children. Despite the “extremely disappointing” results in the latest Closing the Gap report, Ms Braybrook is hopeful about “big steps being taken”. “I think that they’re important steps, and I think that to have a new government has been a breath of fresh air, especially to have Linda Burney, an Aboriginal woman be appointed as the minister for Indigenous Australians,” she said. “I feel that we’re starting to see a new way, a different way, because we can’t keep doing things the same old way and expecting a different result.” Ms Braybrook said that even on a social level, for everyday people there’s “so much work to do”. “A good start is for people is to inform themselves of the real history of this country and understand that the past injustices are not just of the past, they are very much present today,” she said. “Colonisation didn’t just happen at a point in time, it’s been an ongoing process, and so it would be really good for people to understand that everyone’s got an individual responsibility in dismantling the oppressive structures which continue to disadvantage our people.” Details: https://djirra.org.au/ Tuesday, 20 December, 2022 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 11

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

9 years ago

8 years ago

5 years ago

2 years ago

December 17, 2013

December 16, 2014

December 19, 2017

December 15, 2020

Some young Sudanese migrants may have got a bad rap from Australian media, but only good news came from Africa Media Australia’s inaugural Victorian African Community Awards ceremony on December 7.

A Victoria University student has received an award for helping break down cultural barriers through performance and art.

Crime is on the decline in Whittlesea and Hume, led by a significant decrease in the number of break-ins and burglaries, latest crime data shows.

Whittlesea council has pulled the pin on Australia Day celebrations in 2021.

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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

Christmas Tree Extravaganza Trees, lights and decorations aplenty await you at The Whittlesea Agricultural Society’s Community Christmas Tree Extravaganza. Drop by the Whittlesea Agricultural Society Administration Building (Gate 1 McPhees Road, Whittlesea) between noon to 9pm daily until Friday, December 23. Gold coin entry per person. ■ Erica, 9716 2835

Australian wheelchair tennis Three international wheelchair tennis tournaments will take place at the Hume Tennis Centre in January, with the Victorian Wheelchair Open series between 10-14 January and Melbourne Wheelchair Open between 16-20 January. Live scores and streams for the event will be made available via the Hume Tennis Centre facebook page ■ https://www.facebook.com/HumeTC

Making the Marker Hume Galleries present Making the Marker, an exhibition displaying the works of Gunnai/Waradjurie/Yorta Yorta/ Gunditjmarra artist, Robert Young. Visit the exhibition until Monday, February 13 at the Hume Galleries. Entry is free. ■ 9205 2200

Complimentary Colours A group exhibition of Hume-based artists who use colour to explore the complex dimensions of their observed and inner worlds. Visit the exhibition until Sunday, January 29 at the Gallery at Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre. Entry is free. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Residents/ Things-to-See-and-Do/Arts-and-Culture/ Galleries/Complimentary-Colours

Photographic portraits of nature Karen Robinson presents her prints that she hopes will serve as a reminder that we are caretakers and nurturers of the natural world, and we owe it to future generations to come to preserve it. Visit the exhibition until Sunday, February 5 at the Hume Galleries. Entry is free. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Residents/ Things-to-See-and-Do/Arts-and-Culture/ Galleries/Photographic-Portraits-of-NatureKaren-Robinson

Farmers and makers market The South Morang Farmers and Makers Market, which supports local farmers, artisans and businesses, is on at the Civic Centre car park, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang, on the third Saturday of the month, from 9am to 1pm. ■ 9217 2346

Photographer Joe Mastroianni caught up with Desley Adams to check out the community-designed Christmas trees on display as part of Christmas in Riddells Creek. (311237_04)

you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the n Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday from 11.30am-1pm at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park. ■ www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Roxburgh-Park-Homestead-Communityand-Learning-CentreWeekly-CommunityLunch-317411976767

Summer school holiday program A series of events for young people this summer hosted by yhe Hume Youth Engagement and Pathways Unit. All programs are free and have limited availability so registration online is required. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/ Eventbrite/Summer-School-HolidayProgram-Hume-Youth-Engagement-andPathways-468899469937

Senior citizens meet Women’s Only Swimming Women only swimming program provides a place where women can feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying the benefits of the pools, spa, steam room and sauna. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Womens-Only-Swimming-BroadmeadowsAquatic-and-Leisure-Centre

Paint By Numbers Children ages 8+ are invited to create a beautiful picture in this paint by numbers session on January 10 at Broadmeadows library. Children will be given their own kit and creation to take home. ■ https://www.humelibraries.vic.gov. au/Eventbrite/Paint-By-NumbersBroadmeadows-489272937527

The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park. ■ Beulah, 0411 422 398

Sunbury Police Community Register Volunteer for the Sunbury Police Community Register. Formed in 2010 as a result of the 2009 Black Friday bushfires in Victoria, the group’s mission is to make regular contact, and provide reassurance and wellbeing checks to elderly or vulnerable residents living in the Sunbury area, including those without friends or relatives. Volunteers head to the Sunbury Police Station to chat with clients. ■ 9744 8111

Community lunch Join the Homestead team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst

Breast cancer support group On the first and third Tuesday of the month breast cancer survivors are invited

to head along to the Gisborne Golf Club at 10.30am to take part in a breast cancer support group. There they discuss experiences, find connections and improve mental health. ■ Lesley, 0484 691 226

Village connect A new service for older people and carers provided by Macedon Ranges council for residents over 55 years old to stay socially connected, chat with others in the community and enjoy some free coffee and cake. Happening on Tuesdays and Thursday at cafes across the municipality, there’s sure to be one near you. ■ https://bit.ly/3AMUrxm, or 5422 0262

groups rehearse at Dulap Wilim Hub, 11 Leichardt Street, Sunbury. No auditions required, just bring your love of music. ■ harmonixvcinc@gmail.com

Jacksons Creek Combined Probus Visit or become a new member of the Jackson’s Creek Combined Probus Club, gathering on the second Monday of each month at the Sunbury Football Club at 10am. Enjoy outings and meetings each month with a friendly group of men and women, and twice yearly trips away staying in cabins and caravans. ■ Doug, 5428 3317, or Teresa, 9746 3402

Craft and conversation Arts and games night Get creative at the Sunbury Youth Centre as part of an art and games night each Wednesday at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 3.30- 5.30pm. There’s a range of arts and crafts to try, and if art isn’t your thing, there’s a wide variety of games. The program is for people aged 12 to 18 years old and is free. It’s at 51-53 Evans Street, Sunbury.

Carer connect chat Are you caring for someone close to you? Go and connect with other carers in your local area, share a light lunch, have a chat at noon on the first Wednesday of the month. Head to Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, 1 Caroline Chisholm Drive, Kyneton. ■ 9744 9267, or deb.mccallum@scchc.org.au

HarmoniX Vocal Company Get involved with an all-male, auditioned singing group happening on Thursday, 79.30pm in Sunbury. The group is inviting new members to join. The group also has a mixed choir, DynamiX Vocal Company, rehearsing Tuesday. 7-9.30pm. Both

If you’re a passionate crafter and want some company, why not head down to the Sunbury Library on Mondays at noon for the craft and conversation group. The program is free and open to people aged 15 years and older. ■ https://bit.ly/39BIu2O

Chill Out Sunbury Are you between 12 and 18 years old and want to engage with other young people, participate in activities such as trivia, games, art, music, competitions, personal development and more? Chill Out Sunbury is for you. It’s free and happens every Wednesday, 3.30-5.30pm at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 51-53 Evans Street. ■ https://bit.ly/3lmVgVh

Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club Get involved with a welcoming, fun, social group of women who have spread the word of ladies badminton since 1999. Social games are on Mondays, 9.30am-noon, and team competitions are on Thursdays, 9.30am-12.30pm at Eric Boardman Stadium, Wilsons Lane, Sunbury. ■ sunburylbc@gmail.com Tuesday, 20 December, 2022 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 13

PUZZLES

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

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

Dolly, the world’s first animal cloned from an adult cell, was put down after it was found that she had what disease?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

E A T H

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14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 December, 2022

In New Zealand, what is sweet potato known as?

H A S M I L L Y R G O T

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No. 112

5 LETTERS ABIDE AFTER ALERT AMEND ASHEN ASIAN

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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”.

29 words: Excellent

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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QUICK QUIZ

The first female Lord Mayor of Sydney is married to which Australian politician?

What was the name of the youngest brother, also a bushranger, of Ned Kelly?

How many players are there on each team in a game of futsal?

Which hip hop group won a Grammy in 1997 with a cover of the song Killing Me Softly?

Although the fur of the polar bear (pictured) appears white, what is it actually?

The Jodrell Bank Observatory serves as a research and teaching department for the university of which English city?

Are bandicoots generally nocturnal or diurnal?

10 What is the floral emblem of South Australia?

ANSWERS: 1. Kumara 2. Lung cancer 3. Malcolm Turnbull 4. Dan Kelly 5. Five 6. The Fugees 7. Transparent 8. Manchester 9. Nocturnal 10. Sturt’s Desert Pea

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which country became the first African nation to reach the World Cup semi-finals?

5. What is the England cricket team commonly known as by rivals?

2. How many points does an AFL team get after they win a game?

6. The TV series Friday Night Lights depicts which sport?

3. Which tennis legend was refused entry into Wimbledon, after forgetting his members pass?

7. Collingwood skipper Scott Pendlebury will be stepping down as captain after how many seasons in the role?

4. Which Australian surfer went viral in 2015 for fighting off a shark during a competition?

8. How old is soccer star Lionel Messi? 9. Which Australian sporting body announced they were changing their uniforms to be more inclusive? 10. Which artist performed the song Together We Are One at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne? 11. Before debuting in 1995, which NBA team considered the names Beavers, Dragons and Towers? 12. English professional mixed martial arts figure Patrick Pimblett is known by what nickname? 13. Which European nation’s soccer team is known as The Blazers and The Checkered Ones?

14. Australian professional boxer Ebanie Bridges most recently won fighting in which boxing weight division?

Scott Pendlebury

15. A consortium, led by US businessman Bill Foley, owns Premier League team Bournemouth and which NHL team? 16. Which African nation’s soccer team goes by the nickname The Atlas Lions? 17. The A-League Grand Final is set to be staged for the next three years in which Australian city? 18. Who is the captain of the England men’s national football team? 19. Which team did Argentina defeat 3-0 in their semifinal at the 2022 FIFA World Cup? 20. US professional basketballer Brittney Griner last played for which WNBA team? 21. Which Australian swimmer notched a time of under 50 seconds in the 4x100m freestyle relay at the 2022 FINA World Swimming Championships (25m)? 22. Which tennis player recently won a fifth consecutive Newcombe Medal?

23. Who was named man of the match in the recent second test between Australia and the West Indies? 24. Former NSW premier Mike Baird recently took over as the chair of which sporting body? 25. How many times did Julian Alvarez score for Argentina in their 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-final against Croatia?

28. Which Australian cricketer was recently criticised for the poor condition of his baggy green cap? 29. The 2000 movie Remember the Titans revolves around which sport? 30. The WNBL team based in Townsville is known by what nickname?

26. What former English cricketer was recently hospitalised after a crash on the set of TV series Top Gear? 27. American basketballer Derrick Walton Jr plays for which NBL team?

Brittney Griner 1. Morocco 2. Four points 3. Roger Federer 4. Mick Fanning 5. The ‘poms’ 6. American football 7. Nine 8. 35 years old 9. Netball Australia 10. Delta Goodrem 11. Toronto Raptors 12. Paddy The Baddy 13. Croatia 14. Bantamweight 15. Vegas Golden Knights 16. Morocco 17. Sydney 18. Harry Kane 19. Croatia 20. Phoenix Mercury 21. Emma McKeon 22. Ash Barty 23. Travis Head 24. Cricket Australia 25. Twice 26. Andrew Flintoff 27. Sydney Kings 28. Steve Smith 29. American football/Gridiron 30. Fire

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MOTOR

Compass .... it’s got the Jeep name but what does that mean? (Pictures: Supplied)

A Jeep for ‘pragmatic dreamers’ By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring Compass is the smallest and cheapest of Jeep’s off-roaders and looks very much like a smaller version of Grand Cherokee. Introduced in 2007, Compass and its rebadged sibling Patriot were the first of Jeep’s softer offerings, pitched at an entirely new customer. Compass was rounder, cuddlier and generally more city-focused, while the Patriot which was dropped in 2016 was squarer, chunkier and more macho. The current model, launched in 2020, has changed significantly, with enhanced tech, redesigned dashboard, a refined cabin and an extensive list of driver-assist systems. Jeep describes the car as built for pragmatic dreamers who spend their weekdays in comfort and style, and weekends escaping from the daily routine. Compass comes with a 5-year/100,000km warranty and lifetime roadside assistance for vehicles serviced by Jeep. Capped-price servicing means you’ll pay $349 per visit for the first five services, with intervals set at 12 months or 12,000km.

Engines / transmissions With a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, Compass produces 129kW of power at 6400 revs and 229Nm of torque from 3900 revs.

It’s multipoint rather than direct injection with drive is to all four wheels through a 9-speed automatic transmission and torque on demand. That means it operates in front wheel drive most of the time, with the rear wheels engaging when traction is required.

Driving Weighing in at 1503kg, fuel consumption is a claimed 9.7L/100km and it produces 230gm of CO2 per kilometre. In the US the latest model comes with a more sophisticated 2.0-litre direct injection engine that produces 149kW and 300Nm. A hybrid version, called 4xe, is also offered overseas, but is not available from the Indian factory where our cars are built. Although Compass looks terrific and draws plenty of admiring glances, its performance doesn’t quite live up to those looks. The dash from 0-100km/h takes a leisurely 10.1 seconds and factor in some passengers, and it will take considerably longer. Compass can seat four adults in reasonable comfort, but keep in mind it sits on the smaller side of the spectrum, so rear legroom is limited and it has a smallish boot. Inside the decor is a big step up from previous offerings, with better fit and trim, and plenty of eye candy. The driver gets a wheel that can be adjusted for height and reach, power-adjustment for the

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE 2.4 Night Eagle petrol: $39,950 2.4 Limited petrol: $46,700 2.4 S-Limited petrol: $49,700 2.0 Trailhawk diesel: $54,000

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

driver’s seat and a token footrest -- the size and placement of which are not ideal. And, by the way, the foot-operated boot opener refused to cooperate. Throttle response off the line is good and the engine likes to rev. But at other times it takes a full two seconds to respond and the transmission tends to hunt on anything but flat terrain. Ride and handling are pretty good, with the car refusing to break traction even when pushed hard through corners. But the lane keeping assistance system is downright annoying and like me, you’ll probably end up switching it off. Turning circle is relatively large at 11.07 metres which means you’ll find yourself doing plenty of three-point turns. When it comes to going off road, this model

boasts the same Jeep Active Drive Low 4x4 system as the Trailhawk. The big difference is that it doesn’t have off-road suspension, or any underbody protection. At 212mm it has 13mm less ground clearance than Trailhawk too. Although there’s a 4WD LOW option, neither model have a two-speed transfer case and therefore no low range gearing. All this button does is keep the transmission in first gear, which is possible with most automatics. Another button is labelled as 4WD LOCK. What this does is transmit torque equally to both the front and rear wheels. None of the above suggests the S-Limited is up to more than ’roughish’ dirt roads. In terms of fuel consumption, it has a 60-litre tank and takes standard unleaded. We were getting 9.4L/100km after more than 400km -- less than the 9.7L claimed -- but still too much for what it is.

Summing up While the Jeep Compass is a head turner, its performance unfortunately doesn’t match these looks, nor does it have any real off-road capability. Given the unavailability of the hybrid, we’d be waiting at the very least for the new 2.0-litre direct injection engine to make an appearance in Australia. Tuesday, 20 December, 2022 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 17

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

EDFL releases fixture for three men’s divisions A top five finals series and two years of two teams relegated from division 1 are among the details revealed by the Essendon District Football League as part of it’s fixture for next year. The league revealed the fixtures for the three men’s divisions on Tuesday, with two new clubs, Deer Park and St Albans in the mix for the first time. As previously reported by Star Weekly, both clubs which are crossing from the Western Region Football League, will be in division 1. With a 12-team division 1 competition next year, the division 1 competition will have a top five final series which will be played across four weeks. Premier division and division 2 will have the normal top four final series played across three weeks. There will be a bye in the premier division between round 18 and the semi final weekend to ensure the grand finals are held on three

consecutive Saturdays, September 9, 16 and 23. In a league statement it revealed that at the end of the division 1 season, the bottom two teams on the ladder will be relegated to division 2. This will occur in both 2023 and 2024, eventually resulting in a 10-team competition for both premier division and division one by 2025. The premier division season will kick off with the traditional Good Friday clash between Keilor and Strathmore. In division 1, Hillside and the newly promoted Keilor Park, which have played on Good Friday in recent years against different opponents, will face each other. Craigieburn and Roxburgh Park will play each other on Good Friday for the first time. The three Good Friday matches are classified as round three matches, with round one to kick off the following week. New clubs Deer Park and St Albans start

their EDFL lives with matches against Westmeadows and Glenroy respectively in division 1. The two new clubs will face each other in round two. East Sunbury, which didn’t field teams this year, returns to action against Taylors Lakes on April 15 in division 2. Also in division 2, Burnside Heights and Coburg Districts will face each other in an Anzac Day eve clash. The following day Glenroy will host West Coburg and Westmeadows plays Tullamarine in division 1 and Aberfeldie plays Avondale Heights in premier division. The Sunbury derby between the Sunbury Kangaroos and the Thunder is on April 29. The first premier division grand final rematch will be on the King’s Birthday Monday. Tara Murray

(Jamie Morey Photography)

Sports shorts Big V The Craigieburn Eagles continue to add some more pieces for their Big V sides for next year. The women’s division 1 side has added Adele Rogers and Myra Wood, who have both played for other Big V teams, to add some more experience. Ellen Cox has also joined the side, while Carley Cranston will only suit up for the women’s side, having combined playing with the youth league side last season. She won the league youth women’s division 1 most valuable player award.

Premier Cricket Greenvale Kangaroos enter the Christmas break on the back of a big loss despite a hat-trick to Nick McGuane. Facing Footscray, the Kangaroos were bowled out for just 132 with three balls remaining in the innings. Noah Panaia and Haseeb Qureshi top scored with 19 each. Footscray got the runs in the 29th over, finishing 3-133. McGuane got all three wickets, with the hat-trick including that of Travis Dean and Dean Russ. The Kangaroos sit 17th after nine rounds. Tullamarine’s Matthew Watts. (Joe Mastroianni) 311967_01

NMCA

Demons get first win By Tara Murray Tullamarine got a much-needed confidence boosting win in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 1 on Saturday. The Demons had been winless through their first six matches and were starting down being win less at the Christmas break. On Saturday though, the Demons held their nerve despite a few nervous moments to beat Sunshine. President and first XI player Justin Shield said they were hoping that the win would kick start their season. “We were 0-6, so to win against a top four side like Sunshine is really good,” he said. “Our captain David [Scott] said last week that we’ve been in every single game, but we’ve had lapses for 10 overs where we’ve dropped off. “That was the most complete 80 overs we’ve played this season. Hopefully we can take some momentum into next year.” Sunshine won the toss on Saturday and elected to bat. The Crows quickly went from 0-37 to 4-39. The wickets continued to flow throughout the innings as they were restricted to 9-140. Shield said that was a total they were 18 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 20 December, 2022

quite happy with. “With Sunshine they have [Kaushal] Lokuarachchi at the top of the order, who was the key,” he said. “Gihan [Kankanamge] claimed him first ball with a caught and bowled. We knew we were a big chance after that. “We were bowling well and the other opener took 23 or 24 balls to get off the mark. On that deck, was about 180 to 190, so they were 40 to 50 runs short. Kankanamge finished with three wickets for the Demons. Shield said they were pretty confident of being able to get those runs, even when playing coach Danny Law, who had been in some good form, went out early. At 4-118 the Demons looked on track for victory, but there was still another twist in the tail. Shield said there were a few nerves. “Our middle order stood up and showed some composure to get close to the target,” he said. “We have this habit of collapsing and losing quick wickets in consecutive overs, it’s something we have to work on. “We were able to just get the win and

hopefully we can build some momentum.” Scott played a captain’s knock, finishing 44 not out as the Demons finished 8-141. The Demons remain bottom of the ladder, but the gap to the top four is now 15 points. The Demons have played one less match than most teams. They will play that catch up match on January 8 against West Coburg, after playing Sydenham-Hillside the day before. Shield said they would take plenty of belief into those two matches knowing it could set up their season. In the senior division, Craigieburn sits in third spot at the break after beating Keilor on Saturday. The Blues were bowled out for 166 with Zac Orr and Waduwidanalage Rangika taking three wickets each. The Eagles got the job down, finishing 6-170 with Sammy Laffan top scoring with 50 not out. Westmeadows has work to do in the second half of the season, sitting bottom. The Warriors, who have been stripped of points for their win against Keilor, lost to St Albans on Saturday. The Warriors made 5-218 before St Albans made 3-224 in reply.

Rivergum suffered its first loss of the North Metro Cricket Association Jika Shield season on Saturday. Facing Holy Trinity in a top of the table clash, the Kookas restricted Holy Trinity to 5-162. Chris Petroro took two wickets, but was expensive. The Kookas fell just short, finishing 7-158. Corey Altis top scored with 55 not out. The Kookas sit second on the table at the Christmas break.

Bowls Bundoora RSL had a solid win against the MCC in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant premier division. Bundoora came away with two rink wins in the 82 (14)-68 (4). Gary Kelly and Luke Aiello were the winning skips for Bundoora. Bundoora sits third on the ladder at the Christmas break.

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

Wildcard round for the Victorian Football League A new wildcard round is part of next year’s Victorian Football League season. The AFL confirmed the dates for next season with the season to get under way on the weekend of March 25 and 26 with a 22 round season. Each team will play 18 matches and have four byes with 21 teams to again The grand final is scheduled to be played on September 24 The AFL can confirm the 2023 Smithy’s VFL season will again feature 21 teams from Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. A new feature in the fixture is a wildcard round. The round will be played across the weekend of August 26-27, following the final round of the home and away season. It will feature two matches, with the team that finished seventh playing the team that

finishes 10th, while eighth will play ninth. The two winners will advance to the finals, with the highest-ranked winner during the wildcard round to enter the finals as the seventh-placed team. AFL head of state league competitions Jennie Loughnan said the introduction of the wildcard round will provide an exciting new element to the VFL season. “With 21 teams competing in the Smithy’s VFL, the addition of the wildcard round provides more teams the opportunity to contend for finals,” she said. “We expect the wildcard round to create more anticipation and excitement for competing clubs and football fans throughout the home and away season, with more sides remaining in finals contention later into the regular season. “We are extremely proud of the rich

tradition and history of the VFL and its clubs, and are also open to exploring exciting new opportunities, such as the wildcard round, for clubs, players and fans involved within the competition.” Meanwhile, the VFLW competition will kick off on March 25. The start of the season aligns with the opening round of the 2023 Smithy’s VFL season The start date for the 2023 season has moved to late March following the change to AFLW season dates since the completion of this year’s VFLW campaign. The home and away season will consist of 14 rounds, with a competition bye scheduled for the King’s Birthday weekend. There will again be 12 teams with the top six to play finals. The finals format will remain unchanged

Bulls are on the improve By Tara Murray The hard work is only beginning for Bundoora in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Money Shield. The Bulls are sitting in the top four at the Christmas break, but having fallen away in the second half of last season, they’re keen not to have a repeat. Coach Wayne Wunhym said the side was tracking in the right direction. “Our first goal was to be in the top four at Christmas,” he said. “That gives us the best chance in the new year of making finals. “Overall, I would say that we are 35 per cent of where we want to be. The guys are playing well. “We need to start the new year better than last season. We dropped after Christmas and I’ve said to them that we’re not going to drop off. “We’re going to train harder and smarter.” Wunhym said they believed that they would get better as the season went along as he settled into the coaching role. He said they had looked to change a few things. “It was about guys understanding their roles and not going outside their roles,” he said. “Everyone is starting to play their roles.” Wunhym said while they had played some good cricket to start the season there were still areas that they could improve on. “We need to be more consistent with the top order batting,” he said. “The good part is everyone is starting to contribute. Prince [Singh] has made a couple of big scores. “The middle order is starting to make runs like they did on the weekend. Our bowling is steady, but we need to make some big scores.” The Bulls bounced back on Saturday against Eltham after losing the previous round to Lalor Stars with Wunhym saying they didn’t play to their strengths against the Stars. After winning the toss on Saturday, the Bulls made 7-185 from their 40 overs. Rubal Singh-Dhillon top scored with 64. Eltham didn’t get close, bowled out with five balls remaining for 145. Shupinder Taggar and Singh-Dhillon took three wickets each for the Bulls. As well as sitting third on the ladder, the Bulls are through to the next round of the Northern Region T20 competition. They won all three of their matches in the pool round. Wunhym said the club was in a good spot overall. In other Money Shield matches on Saturday, Bundoora United had a big win against

Bundoora’s Jason Kaminski.

(Joe Mastroianni). 311961_05

Laurimar. The Bulldogs made 7-177 from their overs before bowling the Power out for 96. The Bulldogs are in fourth at the Christmas break. Bundoora Park was too strong for the Lalor Stars. The Stars, who were coming off their first

win of the season, made 9-150 in reply to the Thunderbolts 174. Mernda remains win less after losing to Montmorency. Montmorency made 7-182 before restricting the Demons out for 9-106. In the Barclay Shield, Epping lost to Macleod. Macleod made 6-190 from its overs, with the Pingers falling well short, with 6-147.

from 2022, with the finals series to be played across four weeks, commencing the weekend of July 8-9. The 2023 grand final is scheduled to be played on Sunday, July 30. Loughnan said it was pleasing to provide clubs, fans and stakeholders with an update ahead of the 2023 rebel VFLW campaign. “We were absolutely thrilled to this year complete our first rebel VFLW season since 2019 and we are looking forward to the 2023 campaign with great anticipation,” she said. “As the state’s premier women’s football league, the rebel VFLW has showcased the state’s best football talent over the past seven seasons.” Loughnan said they hoped with the two VFL seasons aligning there could be opportunities for double headers.

Thunderbolts, Bulls through Rain again played havoc with the Northern Region T20 competition on Tuesday night, but it didn’t prevent some sides from qualifying for the next round. Several matches were washed out as rain again hit Melbourne, but there was still plenty of action around the grounds. Defending champion Bundoora Park is through to the next round having gone three from three in the pool games. The Thunderbolts were too strong for Thomastown United. Thomastown made 5-164 from its overs, before the Thunderbolt openers did the damage with the bat. The Thunderbolts finished 1-165 in just 14 overs with Jake Bennett making 77. Bundoora is also through to the next round having won all its pool matches. Bundoora was way too strong for the Lalor Warriors. The Warriors made 9-118 from their 20 overs, Conor Burns top scored with 55. Ryan Eley took 3-2 off his 1.2 overs. The Bulls were never in trouble in their run chase, finishing 2-119 in just 10.2 overs. Prince Singh and Clayton McCartney scored 42 runs apiece. Bundoora Park and Bundoora are the only teams that have played all three matches, to have finished with perfect records. Rivergum’s win against Epping was enough to have it finish on top of the pool six group. Rivergum made 9-107. Nathan Fowler top scored with 27 off 16 balls. Daniel Bramich three wickets for the Pingers. The Pingers lost four early wickets to be in trouble at 4-24. The middle order got the innings back on track, before the Pingers lost 5-7. The Pingers would eventually finish 9-89. The Kookas finished one point ahead of the Pingers on the pool ladder. Camrea was too good for Bundoora United. Camrea made 6-153 before restricting the Bulldogs to 9-108. Mill Park lost a thriller to Strathewen, with Strathewen hitting the winning runs on the final ball. Tuesday, 20 December, 2022 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 19

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