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Whittlesea Agricultural Society president Erica Hawke with Bronco at the Whittlesea Show. (Damjan Janevski) 314778_02
The Whittlesea Show will open its gates later this month after being postponed last year due to flooding. Having started in 1859, the show brings locals and visitors the best of agriculture, farming, and rural knowledge. Whittlesea Agriculture Society president Erica Hawke said patrons can expect a fun filled weekend at the show. “It’s a true agriculture show that has something for everybody,” she said. “We have super cute animals in the hobby livestock pavilion, blacksmiths working away, a massive line up of free attractions, ferret racing, an apple peeling competition, and chook racing. “It’s something fun and something different … great for kids over the school holidays.” Ms Hawke said the show is an integral part of the community. The show was meant to be held in November, having been cancelled the two years before that due to COVID-19. “The Whittlesea Show is very important to the local community, and the community groups use the show for fundraising which filters back into the community,” she said. The show is on January 21 and 22, starting from 9am.
Residents left off radar By Millicent Spencer The people of Banksia Gardens have once again been left off the “radar” as the state government announces a pilot program for public housing tenants to report issues, of which the estate in Broadmeadows is not included. Five local maintenance repair crews will be piloted across public housing estates in North Melbourne, Flemington, North Richmond, Sale, and Wodonga, giving renters the opportunity to report maintenance issues in a more timely way. Hume councillor Naim Kurt said he wasn’t very shocked that Banksia Gardens was not included as one of the five sites the program
will be piloted in. “Banksia Gardens doesn’t get picked up on the radar,” he said. “Over the past six years since I have been in council there doesn’t seem to be any prioritisation on a needs basis. “Maintenance issues and the quality of housing in Banksia Gardens is one of the top issues raised by residents with me. “With that in mind, the estate should have been a priority for the pilot.” As reported by Star Weekly, Banksia Gardens residents, such as Marie, are concerned about the conditions of their homes. “I’ve got a great big crack through the floor from the last earthquake,” she told Star
Weekly in December.. “I haven’t got carpet because we made an agreement that the carpet would go in after the renovations that have not been done, so I still have not got carpet.” “Then there’s the taps that are leaking, which is causing a gas bill, and that’s been over eight months.” A spokesperson from VincentCare Community Housing, who manage nine properties in the Banksia Gardens estate, said last quarter they received six standard job requests raised from renters. Homes Victoria said maintenance work will have been carried out at more than 140 houses in Banksia Gardens by June.
Housing Minister Colin Brooks said Banksia Gardens was not discussed as a pilot location for the maintenance program, noting the pilot program was “limited in scope“. “I’m aware of Banksia Gardens because [when] I was sworn in about a month ago and a half ago and the first phone call I got was from the local member of parliament advocating for improvements at Banksia Gardens,” he said. “I want to be completely honest, I’m not entirely happy with the maintenance of public housing stock we have across the state. “I think the answer for maintenance and more broadly for locations across the state is will be overhaul of the maintenance contracts [which are up for review this year].”
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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
ON
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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2 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 January, 2023
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Heart health poor in the north By Millicent Spencer Residents in Hume and Whittlesea have some of the poorest heart health outcomes across the state, according to The Heart Foundation. The Heart Foundation is rolling out a community campaign to educate locals about the importance of recognising the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. Hume Heart Matters co-ordinator and paramedic Roslyn Cochrane said research by The Heart Foundation shows one in five people across Australia don’t know how to recognise a single sign of a heart attack.
“We are focusing on [the areas of Hume and Whittlesea] because these areas have been identified as having high risk factors for heart attacks, low heart health knowledge, and low ambulance utilisation rates,” she said. Ms Cochrane said as a paramedic, she has seen first hand the importance of educating community members on their heart health to improve their outcomes should they experience a heart attack. “As a paramedic I’ve seen people who have delayed calling ambulance or not known they should have called an ambulance because they didn’t know the signs or know it was an emergency and that’s really
heart-breaking,” she said. “We’re really passionate about getting these [messages] out because we want to help community members and we want to save lives.” Ms Cochrane said the targeted program runs until March and community groups are invited to apply for a free heart health session run by the Heart Foundation. “[We also provide] education on when you should call an ambulance, we give [out] a heart attack action plan, and we talk to [community] about preventative measures including diet and exercise,” she said. “We promote heart health checks with GPs
too as this is a good way of figuring out where you are at with your heart.” In the meantime, Ms Cochrane said if you or someone in your community thinks they are having a heart related medical problem, you should call triple-0 immediately. According to the Heart Foundation, the most common sign of a heart attack is chest discomfort or pain (also known as angina). Other signs to watch for include: dizziness, light-headedness or feeling faint; nausea, indigestion, or vomiting; shortness of breath; sweating or a cold sweat. Community groups can visit the Heart Matters website to book a session.
Wollert Church finds a new Mernda home
Whittlesea Chinese Association’s Butterfly dancing group rehearsing for the upcoming festive. At the front is the 83-year-old teacher Yong Hua Yi. Damjan Janevski. 314935_03
Hop in and mark Lunar New Year With the Chinese New Year around the corner, preparation for the Whittlesea Chinese Association’s annual Lunar New Year celebration is under way. It’s the 16th year the association will gather to mark the Lunar New Year, with 2023 the year of the rabbit. Whittlesea Chinese Association president Regina Leung-Huning said the association was looking forward to the festival making it’s
return this year after being cancelled for two years over the pandemic. “A lot of people have been asking if we are having it [the festival] this year,”she said. “My intention is to bring the community together to share our culture and heritage.” Ms Leung-Huning said attendees can expect a huge event this year. “There will be performers from other cultural groups [and] cultural singing and
dancing,” she said. The event will take place on Saturday, February 4 at the Epping Memorial Hall at 1pm. Ms Leung-Huning said everyone is welcome to attend. Admission is free but registration is essential. Details: 0432 267 557.
Millicent Spencer
Works start on Plenty Road bridge Construction is under way on a 75-metre-long bridge over Plenty Road in Mernda to improve safety for drivers. The works come as part of the Bridge Inn Road upgrade which aims to improve traffic flow and travel times for drivers. The new bridge will have four lanes, which will provide an additional lane for traffic in each direction, and a shared use path on its southern side for cyclists and walkers. Most of the works will be completed behind barriers to minimise disruptions to drivers and the existing bridge will remain open to traffic until the new bridge is finished in late 2023. Yan Yean MP Lauren Kathage said the
upgrade will ensure the 17,000 drivers who rely on the road every day get home sooner and safer. “Bridge Inn Road is a critical link for our community and this upgrade will boost capacity and slash congestion, while also improving access to the Mernda Railway Station and new Mernda Town Centre,” she said. The existing bridge, which is located to the north of the structure, will be retained and upgraded to serve as a dedicated walking and cycling path. Major Road Projects Victoria program director Adrian Furner said construction
activity has increased in the area. “Activity along Bridge Inn Road and local roads has increased with the start of works to widen Bridge Inn Road, building the new bridge over Plenty River and retaining walls between Towerhill Avenue and Vantage Point Boulevard,” he said. The Bridge Inn Road upgrade is part of the $3 billion Suburban Roads Upgrade which is jointly funded by the Australian and Victorian governments. The upgrade is expected to be complete in 2025.
Millicent Spencer
The 145-year-old Wollert Church has found a new place to call home just 10 kilometres up the road in Mernda. As part of the Epping Road upgrade the historically significant weatherboard church built in 1878 has been preserved and relocated to the Carome Homestead. Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) acquired the original church site as part of the Epping Road Upgrade and preserved the building before passing it on to Working Heritage to manage. Working Heritage chief executive Ross Turnbull said the company is looking forward to the opportunities the Wollert Church will provide for the community. “We envisage the church will be used for the local community who will be able to hire it at an appropriate community rate,” he said. “Heritage provides connection to the local area and place, and I am confident that residents will be pleased to see it in really good condition.” Mr Turnbull said the opportunity to relocate the church from Wollert to Mernda was unique. “Buildings don’t often get picked up and preserved, so we were lucky this was able to be moved and reconstructed,” he said. “It’s a great way to provide a facility for the community that makes use of a beautiful old building.” Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio said it was fantastic the church could be restored to its former glory. “It is a fantastic outcome for the community that we have been able to preserve a part of Wollert’s history by relocating this historic church from Epping Road to Carome Homestead,” she said. The church was built to serve the local Methodist congregation and held its first service in 1878. The building later became the central hub of the community as the Uniting Church, along with the nearby post office, holding its final service in July 2006. Mr Turnbull said an official opening ceremony of the Wollert Church will take place in the coming months. Millicent Spencer
(Supplied).
Tuesday, 17 January, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 3
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CFA declare Fire Danger Period The Fire Danger Period has begun in Hume and Whittlesea. As of Monday, January 9 residents are prohibited from lighting fires in the open air unless they have a permit. A permit is required for burning off grass, undergrowth, weeds, or any other vegetation. Lighting a fire in the open without a permit is an offence and can bring a penalty of over $21,800 and/ or 12 months imprisonment.
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A new artist’s impression has been released of the Craigieburn Road-Hume Highway intersection. EDITORIAL GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES westeditorial@starweekly.com.au COMMUNITY CALENDAR ENTRIES communitycalendar@starweekly.com.au
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Road plan out
The Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme is urging anyone who was impacted by the Robodebt scheme to share their story before submissions close in less than a month. The final day to make a submission is February 3. For anyone who is unable to use the online form, there are a number of other ways to make a submission, including via phone: 1800 317 022.
Myths and Legends
Published by MMP Star Pty Ltd ACN 168 220 399 Head Office Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas All material is copyright to MMP Star Pty Ltd. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Paul Thomas. All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit starweekly.com.au
Craigieburn locals can get a glimpse into the future after the release of a new artist’s impression of the Craigieburn Road-Hume Highway intersection. The artist’s impression shows the integration of surrounding urban landscape, new cycling and walking paths, and the new traffic signals at the Hardy Avenue intersection. Residents can also access a high-resolution 3D animation on the project’s website to understand how traffic will flow through the upgraded roads. Major Road Projects Victoria program director Dipal Sorathia said locals in Craigieburn are able to get an idea of what their new intersection will look like now the barriers have been removed and the artist
impression has been released. “This artist’s impression shows just how transformative these intersections will be for the community. The Hume Highway intersection is one of seven to be upgraded on Craigieburn Road between Mickleham Road and Hume Highway – with traffic lights to be added to Balyang Way, Dorchester Street and Cimberwood Drive, while roundabouts will be replaced with traffic lights at Waterview Boulevard and Hardy Avenue. The Craigieburn Road upgrade is scheduled to be fully completed in 2025. Project updates can be found here: https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/mrpv/ craigieburn-road-upgrade
Whittlesea council is looking for people from all cultures to showcase traditional myths and legends in a fun, creative way. The first workshop is taking place on Thursday, January 19 in South Morang from 6.30pm. Contact Nicola Vaughan on 9217 2174.
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4 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 January, 2023
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Hume waste charge approved By Millicent Spencer Residents in Hume could be bracing for a suite of potential rate rises to roll out across the 2023-24 financial year. The state government has announced the 2023-24 rate cap will be set at 3.5 per cent, which is double the 2022-23 cap of 1.75 per cent. In addition to the higher rate cap, residents in Hume are set to face further rates as the council endorsed a waste service charge at it’s last council meeting. This change will mean the cost of waste and recycling services will be removed from general rates to become a
separate charge for the 2023-24 financial year. Broadmeadows Progress Association spokesperson Sonja Rutherford said residents are very concerned about their rates potentially increasing. “The rate cap rise means the temptation is going to be there, as was indicated by the council having taken out the cost of rubbish collection” she said. “It’s surprising to us that the council didn’t know the government was going to increase rates when they decided to separate our waste charge. “[Council] are viewing an increase in rates one way or another [and] will most likely take
advantage of the rate increase.” Ms Rutherford said the council should review the waste charge now the rate cap has been set. “In future if there is going to be an increase in rates we don’t need rubbish costs,” she said. Hume chief financial officer Fadi Srour said the council welcomes the decision to increase the rate cap but acknowledges it falls short of the current financial pressures that councils are currently facing. “Council is currently preparing our 2023-24 budget and will seek community consultation in April-May to ensure residents are made
fully aware of any proposed changes to their rates,” he said. “As part of the budget process there will be community engagement on the proposed waste charge.” The rate cap limits the amount a council can increase its total revenue from general rates. These rates are set individually by councils for their municipalities every year through their budget process. The 2023-24 rate cap was set 0.5 per cent lower than the Essential Services Commission’s (ESC) recommendation of four per cent. The ESC provides the government with independent advice in line with the Consumer Price Index.
Lort Smith offers discounted desexing for cats Residents in Hume and Whittlesea with a concession card will be able to book their pets in for a range of heavily discounted procedures at the Lort Smith Animal Hospital in Campbellfield. The service will alternate between residents in Hume and Whittlesea each month this year allowing those with a concession card to book their pets in with vets for desexing, microchipping, and vaccinations at reduced costs. This new initiative is part of the ‘Little Paws of the North’ campaign which launches on January 19 and seeks to support the community by encouraging responsible pet ownership. Lort Smith business manager Jennifer Donaldson said the partnership with Hume and Whittlesea marks an exciting expansion
(Supplied)
of the company’s services in the northern corridor. “We want to support people in understanding what is important for their animals and community,” she said.
“Responsible pet ownership keeps our pets happy and health.” The project aims to not only reduce the risk of potentially serious hormone-related conditions and unwanted pregnancies, but
also offer pet owners the opportunity to engage in educational sessions. One of the main objectives of the project is to desex approximately 300 cats in 12 months. As of August 1 it will be mandatory to desex your cat in Whittlesea unless it is already registered with the council. For cat owners in the municipality wanting to access the desexing program, packages are priced at $50 per cat. Ms Donaldson said there are so many benefits of desexing cats. “[Desexing] ensures cats are nice and healthy, reduces the risk of hormonal based conditions, and helps to avoid them trying to stray looking for a mate,” she said. Details: https://lortsmith.com/location/ campbellfield/.
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Plan. Act. Survive. Go to emergency.vic.gov.au
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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 5
COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Waleed Ayoot and Rifat Yacoub. 314815_06
Dad Maurice Vinci and his son Jett, 11. 314815_04
Lifeguard Taylah McMillan.
314815_02
Cool summer fun makes a splash at Craigieburn Splash in Craigieburn was a popular place to be last week. Families flocked to the pool for a cool dip and trip down the waterslide as the mercury soared into the 30s. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski stopped by to capture the fun.
Aria, 6 and Siena, 8. 314815_01
Merna, 6, Mary, 6, Morees, 13, Emiliya, 6, Marcus, 5, and Marita, 4. 314815_03
Playground a school holiday hit Families in Whittlesea have made the most of the sunshine and revamped play equipment at the Whittlesea Public Gardens in Lalor last week. Children of all ages enjoyed playing on the flying fox, rope climbing course, swings, in-ground trampolines, tunnels, and balance logs. The park also features a new learn-to-ride area. Additional works on the park will see the inclusion an ’urban zone’, comprising of a skate park, rock climbing wall, and basketball court. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski stopped by the new playground to capture these pictures. Marian, 6, Michaela, 4, and Sophia, 8, making the most of the new park at Whittlesea Public Gardens in Lalor. 315100_02
Michaela, 4, making the most of the new tunnel at Whittlesea Public Gardens in Lalor 315100_05 6 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 January, 2023
Mum Vicky Liassos with her daughters Sophia, 8, and Marian, 6. .
315100_04
Mum Eva Vlachos Topalidis with her son Marios, 1, enjoying the sunshine and new equipment. 315100_03
STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Airport jobs boom lands By Millicent Spencer Melbourne Airport is looking to fill an estimated 2000 jobs as airlines from mainland China return to Victoria after an easing of COVID restrictions. The airport said flights to mainland China will start to increase from later this month after China dropped many of its COVID restrictions. Prior to the pandemic, mainland China was Melbourne’s biggest international market, with thousands of families and friends, tourists, and students travelling in and out of the airport every day, according to the airport. Airport service providers are currently recruiting staff to fill a variety of jobs across check-in services, baggage handling, retail, and terminal operations. Upfield local Merve Taskesti has just started a job as a cleaner at the airport. Ms Taskesti said it’s her first job since moving to Australia in September. “I really like working with this company as a cleaner and am very proud to do so,” she said. “They are understanding people and have been very helpful, I am very happy here!” In the last three months approximately 4000 workers have started at the airport as international carriers such as United, Qatar, Qantas, and Air Asia X added extra capacity into Melbourne. Melbourne Airport chief executive Lorie Argus said international flights are huge employment generators both at Melbourne Airport and in the wider Victorian economy. “We’re expecting further capacity increases in the coming months as Chinese carriers resume flights to Melbourne, VietJet launches direct services to Ho Chi Minh City, and Qantas returns to Hong Kong,” she said.
Merve Taskesti and Catherine T Piloton are new staff members at Melbourne Airport working for IKON Services Australia. (Damjan Janevski) 315265_06
“We have a broad range of [job] opportunities available across numerous providers at the airport, and we’d really encourage people living in our local area to consider a career here. “As Victoria’s international gateway, our
people help shape the first and last impressions for visitors to our state. “Aviation is an exciting and challenging industry to work in and there’s no better time to join the team.” Jobs are listed at www. melbourneairportjoblink.com.au
NEWS
Early road works start Early works have started on the $222 million Mickleham Road upgrade between Somerton Road and Dellamore Boulevard in Greenvale. Currently in stage one of the project, the early works include setting up temporary fencing, relocating lighting, power, water, sewer and drainage infrastructure, and removing the roundabout and traffic islands at the intersection of Mickleham and Somerton roads. Some traffic conditions will change as a result of the early works. There will be reduced speed limits, lane closures, and temporary traffic barriers on Mickleham and Somerton roads. The majority of early works will take place between 7am and 5pm, Monday to Saturday, however there will also be some nightworks and Sunday work to minimise the impact on traffic. Greenvale MP Iwan Walters said the upgrade will ensure people get to their destinations sooner and safer. “The upgrade between Somerton Road and Dellamore Boulevard will reduce congestion and improve safety and travel time reliability along Mickleham Road,” he said. Once stage one is complete the upgrade is projected to provide more reliable journeys for more than 25,000 motorists each day by slashing travel times, reducing congestion during peak hours, improving traffic flow on Mickleham Road, and making it easier and safer to walk and cycle in the area.
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School journey starts Twins Avinoor and Parinoor are eagerly counting down the days until school starts. The sisters are among 168 preps starting at Hume Anglican Grammar next week, with 84 enrolled at each of the school’s two campuses at Mt Ridley and Donnybrook. Schools across Hume and Whittlesea will begin welcoming their 2021 prep pupils from Thursday. This week will also mark the opening of three new primary schools in Hume and Whittlesea. Mickleham’s Gaayip-Yagila Primary School, Greenvale’s Keelonith Primary School and Wollert’s Edgars Creek Primary School will all open their doors for the first time. They are among eight new schools to open in Hume and Whittlesea over the next four years, with Kalkallo Commons Primary School, Greenvale Secondary College, Wollert East Primary School and a Catholic primary school in Mickleham scheduled to open in 2022. A Catholic primary school in Greenvale is expected to open in 2023.
School journey starts (Damjan Janevski) 225262_01
Twins Avinoor and Parinoor are eagerly counting down the days until school starts. The sisters are among 168 preps starting at Hume Anglican Grammar next week, with 84 enrolled at each of the school’s two campuses at Mt Ridley and Donnybrook. Schools across Hume and Whittlesea will begin welcoming their 2021 prep pupils from Thursday. This week will also Laura Michell mark the opening of three new By primary
Laura Michell
Melbourne Airport has asked the state government to give it more power to intervene in developments which could impact aircraft operations or lead to noise complaints. Airport operators Australia Pacific Airports (Melbourne) has made a submission to the state government’s Melbourne Airport Environs Safeguarding Committee, which was set up to advise the planning minister on improvements to the planning provisions safeguarding the airport. In its submission, Melbourne Airport called for the government to designate it as a referral authority, meaning applicants would formally be required to consult with the airport on any
developments in the surrounding area. The submission stated that the airport is currently notified of planning permit applications as though it were a “third-party objector”. “Unlike a determining or even recommending referral authority, its position on any application has no statutory significance,” the submission stated. The submission cited recent applications and approvals which had the potential to generate a large number of noise complaints or impact on aircraft operations, including housing development in Phillip Street, Dallas, and a waste to energy facility proposed for Craigieburn. It stated the airport receives about 20 noise complaints per month – a figure the airport says will rise in the coming years given the
number of people now living in areas impacted by aircraft noise. Operators fear that if they are not granted a greater say in nearby developments, the airport could face constraints on its operations, such as a curfew or a reduction in airspace. “Constraints such as restrictions on flight paths, aircraft volumes (even during daylight hours) and aircraft types are all potential risks to the flexibility that Melbourne Airport’s operations presently enjoy,” the submission states. “The introduction of any such restrictions would have significant and far-reaching consequences for both Melbourne Airport, and its contribution to the state economy.” Melbourne Airport chief financial officer Grant Devonport said that if approved, referral
authority status would ensure the airport is consulted from the outset on developments subject to noise impacts, and those that have the potential to impact on aircraft operations. A Hume council submission to the inquiry stated the council “remains committed to protecting Melbourne Airport’s 24-hour curfew free operation”. It said meeting the needs of the general population growth of Melbourne, Hume and other aircraft noise-affected municipalities, has been a source of tension at the planning permit stage. “How to strike an appropriate balance between facilitating community needs and expectations against protecting the operations of Melbourne Airport is a difficult question that needs to be given very careful consideration.”
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Airport bid for more power
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Tuesday, 17 January, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 7
NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Yui Kamiji from Japan, currently world No 2.
Saalim Nasser from Roxburgh Park.
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Mikail Scheffers from the Netherlands.
Ben Bartram from the UK.
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Wheelchair tennis action is a hit By Millicent Spencer A big summer of tennis at the Hume Tennis and Community Centre in Craigieburn is underway. The centre kicked-off its annual summer of fun, with the Victorian Wheelchair Tennis Open. The Melbourne Wheelchair Open will follow at the tennis centre from January 16-20. Most of the world’s best wheelchair players are playing in both events, including Australian star Heath Davidson. Other stars on show include world number one and defending champions, Netherlands’ Diede De Groot and Japan’s Shingo Kunieda who will lead the women’s and men’s field respectively, and world quad world number one Niels Vink. Several locals were in action on day one of the event, including Roxburgh Park’s Saalim Nasser, who is competing in the men’s wheelchair event, and Sunbury’s Jin Woodman, who is competing in the quad and the junior events. Both suffered first up losses to more experienced opponents on day one. As well as watching the tennis, there’s plenty
Katherine Kruger (Germany).
Jin Woodman (13) from Sunbury. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 313674_01
of events for those coming along to catch the action. The first week of the Australian Open will be screened on the big screen, while the centre
is hosting a number of events, including a come and try day. The centre will conclude its busy summer with the Hume Tennis Family Day on Sunday,
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February 13. The day will include free ANZ Hot Shots tennis for juniors, a new adult’s program and membership offers. Details: www.facebook.com/HumeTC
YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here PRINT AND ONLINE SALES EXECUTIVE
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Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms. Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future. The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark salescareers@starnewsgroup.com.au
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8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 January, 2023
STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
NEWS
MY PLACE Melbourne Airport chaplain Martyn Scrimshaw tells Millicent Spencer about his unique role at the airport.
Tell us a bit more about what you do? My role is to provide spiritual and emotional support to passengers and staff. Everyday is different for my team but we usually drop our bags at the start of the day and begin our rounds. We go and visit the staff and say ‘G’day’. We bring a multi-faith approach to our chaplaincy, meaning any staff member can speak to us. We support people of no faith or all faiths. Our team is predominantly made up of Christians but we do have one Buddhist chaplain. What do you like the most about working at the airport? I think the pastoral element of the role – coming alongside people, listening to their stories, and helping them find a bit of hope. That might mean helping them with flights, or supporting them if they aren’t traveling for a good reason (such as a funeral). For example, I recently got called by an airline to assist an elderly lady who was disorientated. She thought she had a flight out of Melbourne to
Europe. I took her for a coffee and found out she had packed up without telling her family in Brisbane that she was coming to Melbourne for her flight to Europe. I managed to contact her family and we worked out it was still a few weeks until her flight to Europe was booked. After talking with the lady and her family we worked out she was happy to return to Brisbane to spend time with her family before flying to Europe. It was great to be able to find her family and reunite her with them. Where is your favourite local place to spend time? I couldn’t name one, but I definitely have a couple of favourite coffee shops which I take staff and travellers to for a cup of coffee or a hot chocolate. I just love being amongst retailers and going into our coffee shops and retail stores to have a chat with the staff. Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you… I suppose people wouldn’t know about my hobby, but for the last seven years I have been a conductor for a brass band. I have just given that up as I was elected to be the president of the International Association of Chaplains for the next two years. I am looking forward to taking on the role of president and working with airports like JFK and Heathrow to grow the global vision of airport chaplaincy.
Melbourne Airport chaplain Martyn Scrimshaw (left) at work. (Supplied).
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What is your connection to Melbourne’s north-west? I have been the chaplain at the airport for five years. In my five years, I have had two good years before COVID . I was the chaplain through COVID and saw the devastation throughout the industry, and the bounce back in the last 12 months. . I also live close by in Epping which is great for when I get a call during the night. The chaplaincy provides 24-hour support to travellers and staff so we do get calls in the middle of the night. Recently we got a call for someone who had a heart attack and passed away in the terminal. We got called back to help the family.
Tuesday, 17 January, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 9
BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Kevin O’Callaghan.
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Paul Ledwich.
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Alan Penaluna.
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Terrific trio serve for 40 years As the saying goes, all good things come in threes, and this is certainly the case for the founding members of Craigieburn’s State Emergency Service (SES) unit who have marked their 40th year in the unit. Millicent Spencer caught up with the trio. Kevin O’Callaghan, Paul Ledwich, and Alan Penaluna started the Craigieburn SES in late 1981. All hailing from different backgrounds the men joined the unit with a shared passion to help the community. Mr O’Callaghan helped form the unit after moving to Craigieburn in 1978 and realising there was no group who could go out and help people if something went wrong. “Prior to August, 1981, there was no SES in Craigieburn, just the CFA,” he said. “At the time a community group wanted to buy the jaws of life to use on the Hume Highway, and at the time the CFA weren’t allowed to do it. “We had to take the loan out to get the jaws of life and two local businessmen underwrote the loan.” After acquiring the jaws of life, the group focused its energy on road rescue on the Hume Highway having both the tools and skills to facilitate complex rescues. “When we first set up together, there were a lot of ex-military, scouting, and St John Ambulance people so there was a community base to start with,” Mr O’Callaghan said. “I was in the military and I had First Aid skills which I wasn’t using at the time and I wanted to do something. “We were originally set up to do road rescue on the Hume Highway and that’s been our primary role over all the years, but we also do things like windstorm damage, search and rescue.” For Mr Ledwich, it was the variety of interesting tasks volunteers could do with the SES that intrigued him to join the Craigieburn unit shortly after Mr O’Callaghan. “I’d always wanted to do something for the community and I couldn’t find anything that would really suit me until the SES came along,” Mr Ledwich said. “I saw an advertisement in the local newspaper that the SES was forming, and Kevin had happened to come around and see me one day after that, and he told me that the training was starting … so I went [along]. “When I joined the SES, it was sort of a job for people who can do anything.” Six months later, paramedic Alan Penaluna joined the unit after moving into the area. “I’ve seen and done things that I’d never ever thought I’d see and do. You go places where very few people get to go,“ he said. “Interestingly, a person asked me yesterday, if I had my time over again, would I do it all the same? And the answer is yes.” Recalling the most memorable rescue, both Mr O’Callaghan and Mr Penaluna named a truck rescue on May 16, 1963. “A truck collided on the highway, right off the road and turned on its side. The driver was 10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 January, 2023
Paul Ledwich, Alan Penaluna and Kevin O’Callaghan who have served in the SES for 40 years.
trapped, he was hanging up in the tree. It took us nearly two and a half hours to get him out,” Mr O’Callaghan said. “That was an exceptional rescue because there were the best part of 25 people working on getting him out. “The chap lives in Queensland and he still sends us a Christmas card every year.” Over the last 40 years the men have seen significant changes in the community, from population growth to the changing faces of this now diverse suburb. “Craigieburn finished 200 metres down the road [from the SES], it was just a little country place and everyone knew everyone,” Mr O’Callaghan said. “We found now we’re getting more members from the other cultural groups.” Mr Penaluna said one of the great joys of still being in the unit is seeing new people join. “You can teach the people that are coming through how to cope with situations and what to do to maintain a level head, which is probably the hardest thing to do with any job,” he said. While the community has drastically changed so too has technology, which the men agree is one of the bigger changes they have seen in their 40 years of service. “We used to get old trucks to convert them and they were pretty unreliable. Our first rescue truck was an old fire truck. Now we get issued brand new trucks by the state,” Mr O’Callaghan said. Mr Ledwich said: “The major changes I’ve
(Damjan Janevski) 313677_04
seen is the training and the equipment that we use. I mean, when I first started, if we had to go up on somebody’s roof, we didn’t use a safety harness“. Having all been awarded their 40 year service medals the “original three” aren’t slowing down anytime soon. “I could quite easily rest on my laurels now and say I’ve done 40 years [but] what happens then? Do I just sit in a chair and twiddle my thumbs until I die,” Mr Penaluna said. “What I do now has changed over the 40 years because I’m not a young man anymore [but] I’m still fit enough to be able to do things and assist the community in different ways. “It’s (the SES) more for me a way of life.” Both Mr Penaluna and Mr O’Callaghan are still actively involved in the training aspect of the Craigieburn unit, and Mr Ledwich helps out with maintaining the uniform stock at head office. “Once you’ve done one rescue, it sort of hooks you,” Mr O’Callaghan said. “Although I don’t get out on the truck as much, I am the unit assessor … because of my qualifications I can test people for road rescue, navigation, and storm.” The three men all agreed that being a volunteer in the SES has given them skills and experiences to last a lifetime. “It’s like my second family. Very few people have really good best friends through thick and thin, that have lived the same experiences you have,” Mr Penaluna said. “Everyone helps everyone, so you build up a really strong friendship base. I will be on a
rescue and I can think about what I need to use, and when I turn around Alan’s handing it to me,” Mr O’Callaghan said. SES chief operating officer Tim Wiebusch said the organisation is very proud of the three founding members of the Craigieburn unit. “Having known these members for around 30 years, in the course of volunteering with VICSES, Paul Ledwich, Kevin O’Callaghan, and Alan Penaluna have made an extraordinary contribution to their community whether through community education, or responding to requests for assistance,” he said. “Best of all they give the benefit of their leadership, technical skills, and experience, gained over four decades of responding to emergencies as mentors, to our new unit members at Craigieburn; for whom they are a constant source of support. “The unit still benefits today from the breadth and scope of their work, as do the communities across the wider Craigieburn area and throughout the country, where they have served.” While the last 40 years have been strong, Mr O’Callaghan said membership is dwindling. “I think the risk we’ve got at the moment is that the number of people we’ve got to the size of the area. Team members are just getting worn out,” he said. “We need to potentially double our number, we need about 80 active operators. “If we can get across to people the importance of helping the local community in that way I think that’s where we’re going to try and pick up the numbers through that.”
FEATURING ... MY BUSINESS
Refinancing your home loan might not be as complicated as you think.
Advertising feature
By borrowing against the equity in your property you could consolidate debts.
Seek refinancing advice for when your fixed rate ends As a growing number of home loan customers start rolling off fixed rate interest rates, Star Weekly talks to home loan specialist and RAMS franchise principal Sandeep Singh for some refinancing tips. As Mr Singh explains, “When refinancing, many borrowers aren’t just looking for the lowest repayment option, they’re also searching for loans with more flexible options or just plain better service”.
Refinancing could also be the time to consider consolidating any other debts. “By borrowing against the equity in your property you could consolidate debts such as credit card balances and car finances,” Mr Singh explained. “The benefit here is loans secured against a property generally charge a lower interest rate than unsecured debts, meaning total monthly repayments could be reduced. But a loan
secured by property is usually over a longer term, so more interest is paid over the term.” As for costs associated with refinancing, Mr Singh said, “You’ll need to ask your current lender about what charges may be associated with terminating your loan contract. The good news is there are offers available to refinancers”. “At RAMS we currently offer a $4000 rebate when you switch an eligible home
loan to us.” * You can find out more about this offer and read the full T&Cs by visiting rams.com.au/ all-offers/refi-rebate/ If it’s time to refinance you can chat to a home loan specialist. Book in a time in with Mr Singh, your local RAMS home loan specialist by calling 7008 5036 to discuss your options. *Credit criteria, charges and T&Cs apply.
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Level 1 Building D, Craigieburn Junction 420-440 Craigieburn Rd, Craigieburn More Information: Credit criteria, fees and charges apply. RAMS home loans are not available for foreign borrowers residing outside Australia. Offer is current as at 1 November 2022 and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. For new refinance applications received between 1 November 2022 and 28 February 2023. Settle by 31 May 2023. Min Loan $250k per property refinanced. Limit of 1 $4,000 rebate per settled refinance application regardless of the number of loans involved. This offer is not available in conjunction with the New Purchase Buyer $1,000 Rebate. Excludes Owner Occupier Interest Only, Line of Credit Loans, residential lending originated under family or company trusts and switches and refinances of home loans within the Westpac Group (St.George, Westpac, Bank of Melbourne, BankSA). Split loans are counted as one settled home loan regardless of the number of splits. Rebate will be automatically deposited into the home loan account within 60 days after settlement. If the home loan has a fixed interest rate, the rebate will count towards the prepayment threshold. Tax consequences may arise from this promotion for investors and customers should seek independent advice on any taxation matters. RAMS Carigieburn is owned and operated by Hume Mortgages Pty Ltd ABN 13 652 969 223. Credit Provider & issuer of RAMS Deposit Products: Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714. 23062/1122
Tuesday, 17 January, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 11
COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication
Whittlesea Show The postponed Whittlesea Show is taking place on January 21 and 22. The show will feature the best of agriculture, farming, and rural knowledge. The Whittlesea Show is open daily from 9am - 5pm and more information can be found on the Whittlesea Agricultural Society’s website: https://www.whittleseashow.org.au/ ■ Erica, 9716 2835
Australian Wheelchair Tennis Three international wheelchair tennis tournaments will take place at the Hume Tennis Centre in January, with the Melbourne Wheelchair Open between January 16-20. 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. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Residents/ Things-to-See-and-Do/Arts-and-Culture/ Galleries/Complimentary-Colours
Star Weekly photographer Jacob Pattison captured this picture during the St Albans Gift on Saturday, January 7.
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 Hume Gallery. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Residents/ Things-to-See-and-Do/Arts-and-Culture/ Galleries/Photographic-Portraits-of-NatureKaren-Robinson
summer hosted by the 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
Farmers and makers market
Senior citizens meet
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
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
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.
Sunbury Police Community Register
Carer connect chat
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
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
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
HarmoniX Vocal Company
Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club
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 groups rehearse at Dulap Wilim Hub, 11 Leichardt Street, Sunbury. No auditions required, just bring your love of music. ■ harmonixvcinc@gmail.com
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. ■ sunburylbc@gmail.com
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. Sessions are held on Sundays. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Womens-Only-Swimming-BroadmeadowsAquatic-and-Leisure-Centre
Community lunch in Roxburgh Park Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst 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 12 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 January, 2023
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
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
Arts and games night Craft and conversation 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
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
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
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. ■ Michael, 0417 307 572
PUZZLES
DOWN Fellow employee (2-6) US city known as ‘The Windy City’ (7)
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AGILE ALLEY ANGER AREN’T BAGEL BRUTE DELTA EAGLE EASED EDGES EGGED ELEGY ERASE GARBO GONNA GOODS HAILS INANE IRATE LEARN LEGAL
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19 words: Very good
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No. 116 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.
8 LETTERS DOGGEREL DRAINAGE ENTITLED RELOADED
QUICK QUIZ
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In which district of London would you find Mayfair?
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Rudy Giuliani (pictured) was mayor of which US city?
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The Etruscan civilisation existed in what is now which modern country?
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Who did Kanye West interrupt during an award acceptance speech at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards?
9
Who wrote the 1868 Russian novel The Idiot?
Who wrote the 1996 spy novel The Tailor of Panama?
4
Kim Philby was a member of which famous ring of spies in England during the Cold War?
U N E R
T
5
A I N T N N U I N A K E
P E S
The River Cam runs through which English university town?
10 Which '80s rock anthem begins: ‘I followed the Moskva down to Gorky Park'?
6
Founded in 1088, what is the oldest continuously operating university in the world?
ANSWERS: 1. West End 2. New York City 3. John le Carré 4. The Cambridge Five 5. Cambridge 6. University of Bologna 7. Italy 8. Taylor Swift 9. Fyodor Dostoevsky 10. Wind of Change
E D S
S
6 LETTERS CRESTS CRYPTS DESIRE RETIRE
3
NOTE: more than one solution may be possible
L
5 9 7 3 8 1 6 2 4
4 1 6 7 5 8 2 3 9 6 1 4 8 9 7 2 3 5
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7 LETTERS ALIGNED BELLIED CENTRED ENLARGE GIMMICK VILLAGE
20-01-23
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TENET TOKEN TONED TRADE TWANG UNSET USAGE
ages, ease, gasman, gasmen, manages, MANGANESE, mans, manse, means, mesa, mesne, nags, names, saga, sage, same, sane, sang, seam, seaman, seamen, seem, seen, semen, senna, snag
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Today’s Aim: 13 words: Good
5 LETTERS ADAGE
U
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9 5 3 7 2 6 1 8 4
4 5 3 2 1 9 6 8 7
3 6 1 5 7 2 8 9 4
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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”.
26 words: Excellent
7 2 1 4 9 8 6 5 3
4 6 8 5 3 1 9 7 2
8 4 2 9 1 5 3 6 7
5 9 6 8 7 3 2 4 1
1 3 7 2 6 4 8 9 5
7 4 5 9 3 8 1 2 6
Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com
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3 4 5 6 7 8 14
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No. 116
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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.
QUICK CROSSWORD
3 ( ' $ /
No. 116
6 + $ 0 6
SUDOKU
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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which beloved cricket star made a guest cameo in the TV series Kath and Kim?
5. Who holds the record of most Wimbledon Grand Slams in the womens Titles?
13. Recently in Queensland, horses escaped from a barrier draw for which race?
2. Where was the FIFA World Cup held in 2010?
6. Who is the captain of the Western Bulldogs AFL team?
14. Which two AFL teams have won four premierships each since the year 2000?
3. British F1 racer James Hunt had a famous rivalry with which other driver? 4. Who is the current coach of West Ham United?
7. AFL great Nick Riewoldt won which reality TV competition in 2021? 8. Australian professional boxer Demsey McKean is set to fight which former heavyweight champion? 9. For which 2022 film were actors required to freedive? 10. Which tennis star recently pulled out of the Australian Open, having not competed since September? 11. How much was the financial penalty handed out to the Melbourne Victory for the recent fan pitch invasion? 12. Which Australian women’s cricketer recently announced her return to the game after taking a break for mental health reasons?
Kath & Kim
15. Which athlete was recently named 2022’s highest paid athlete after earning $190 million during the year? 16. What is the name of the Amazon Prime documentary series focusing on the Australian cricket team? 17. Which Australian sporting league has teams named the Aces, Cavalry and Blue Sox? 18. NRL star Pasami Saulo will play for what team in 2023? 19. How many gold medals did Australia win at the 1976 Montreal Summer Olympics? 20. AFL star Tom Mitchell will play for what team in 2023? 21. Which nation’s mixed tennis team defeated Italy to win the 2023 United Cup?
22. Which sporting league features teams including the Adelaide Rush, Sydney Sirens and Perth Inferno?
27. In which Central European country was NBA player Luka Doncic born ? 28. Craig Tiley is the CEO of which Australian sporting governing body?
23. Which cricketer was named player of the series after Australia’s first Test series victory over South Africa since 2014?
29. Australian pitcher Liam Hendriks last played for which Major League Baseball team?
24. The Birmingham Squadron are an NBA G League team affiliated with which NBA team? 25. The docuseries Break Point follows professional athletes in which sport?
30. Major Tuddy, a pig wearing a combat helmet and team uniform, is the costumed mascot of which NFL team?
26. Felix Von Hofe played four games for which NBL team?
Luka Doncic 2001
12544962-AV15-22
1. Shane Warne 2. South Africa 3. Niki Lauda 4. David Moyes 5. Martina Navratilova 6. Marcus Bontempelli 7. MasterChef Australia 8. Anthony Joshua 9. Avatar: The Way of Water 10. Naomi Osaka 11. $550,000 12. Meg Lanning 13. The Star Gold Coast Magic Millions 14. Hawthorn and Geelong 15. Lionel Messi 16. The Test 17. Australian Baseball League 18. Canberra Raiders 19. Zero 20. Collingwood 21. United States 22. Australian Women’s Ice Hockey League 23. David Warner 24. New Orleans Pelicans 25. Tennis 26. Melbourne United 27. Slovenia 28. Tennis Australia 28. Chicago White Sox 30. Washington Commanders Tuesday, 17 January, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 15
MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Hyundai’s electric drive By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is a fully electric vehicle, that is it doesn’t work in tandem with a petrol or diesel engine. It’s is currently available in one grade in Australia, with the option of a rear-wheel single motor layout or a dual motor (rear and front) AWD. We feel that other models may follow later, but Hyundai Australia won’t comment on this. Time will tell …
Drivetrain The IONIC 5 RWD has a 72.6 kWh electric motor mounted at the rear that produces 160kW of power and 350 Nm of torque with a listed WLTP range of 451 km. The AWD version has motors at the front and rear with outputs of 225 kW and 605 Nm but less range, at 430 km. The shorter range is probably due to the testing method and may not happen in real life.
Styling The front of the car features two narrow glass strips, the top one with twin rectangular LED headlamps outside of orange turn indicators on either side and sensors and a camera in between. There’s a full-width string of LED daytime running lights beneath while at the bottom there is a pair of air flap that opens when needed to provide cooling to the various pieces of componentry above. On the side a diagonal crease runs from high in the front doors down to the base of the rear ones. The door handles sit flush against the doors and pop out when you unlock the car.
Interior Hyundai IONIQ 5 has a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and an adjustable centre console. The front seats are 12-way power adjustable and come with a ‘Relaxion’ (zero gravity) mode. Which is good for lying back and having a rest on a long country trip. Especially if you’re driving at night and feel tired. The IONIQ 5 has the very good rear legroom the sort that you get in a luxury vehicle. All seats are power adjustable with a memory function which can be set through the digital display screen. A vision glass roof with a powered sunshade is standard in both models. The charge point is at the right-rear of the car, with both AC and DC sockets. The cables are stored under the front bonnet and there’s a Vehicle to Load device which plugs into the car’s AC port at one end and a standard power plug at the other allowing for multiple uses including providing power to another electric vehicle. Full charge through a standard domestic power point is upward of 24 hours. A home / office charging wallbox will reduce charging time to around six hours. An ultra-fast charger can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in about 18 minutes. It’s likely that in the not-too-distant future service stations will install these, and of course charge you to use them (excuse the joke). Thus, you can ‘refuel’ when you stop and have a light meal or simply walk around and stretch your legs.
Slim horizontal styling at the front looks great.
closest charging stations and a driving radius on how far the battery will allow the car to reach.
Infotainment The IONIQ 5 has two 12.3-inch screens embedded into a single panel. A digital instrument cluster in front of the driver and a Multimedia navigation unit in the centre. There are three USB ports at the front and two more at the rear with 12-volt sockets at the front and another in the boot. Wired-only Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility is standard as well as wireless smartphone charging. Sound is through a BOSE eight-speaker premium audio system. Satellite navigation includesdetails of the 16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 January, 2023
Safety Standard safety features include seven airbags; front and rear autonomous emergency braking; front and rear parking sensors; blind spot monitoring including camera coverage; lane departure warning; lane keep assist (which can be temporarily turned off; smart radar cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert; safe exit alert; rear seat occupant alert; driver inattention alert; and an interactive surround view monitor including a 360-degree overview; remote smart parking assist which allows the car to be moved remotely; and two
IsoFix child seat mountings.
Driving The driver’s seat is comfortable and supportive and the overall ambience of the interior sets the scene for an enjoyable travel experience. The driving position is fairly high. The chunky steering wheel feels great but does tend to obstruct the driver’s view of the instrument panel and the gear selector. We love driving electric vehicles at the best of times but the IONIQ 5 takes that enjoyment to an even higher level. It cruises effortlessly and with such a large amount of instant torque on offer it can accelerate sharply when needed. Smart regeneration braking to extend
range can be adjusted through steering wheel paddles including an i-Pedal feature which allows one-pedal driving.
Summar y No review of an EV can be complete without looking at the price / range equation. Electric vehicles are very expensive when compared to conventional vehicles, including hybrids. At $69,900 for the IONIQ 5 RWD and $77,500 for the AWD it sits at the higher end of the segment. Its range of up to 450 kilometres makes it more practical than many of its competitors. Standard warranty is five years with unlimited distance. There’s an eight-year, 160,000 km battery replacement warranty,
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SPORT
Bats rise to the challenge of the two-day format A return to the two-day format was something different for Plenty Valley in the Victorian Sub-District Association north-south. As all teams returned to the longer format for the first time since before COVID-19, many of the Bats players were playing two-day cricket for the first time. Bats captain-coach Michael Rogneda said it was a challenge that everyone had been looking forward to. “No one has played it for almost three years,” he said. “It was great. We had to change the game plan and manipulate it a little bit. Almost none of our guys had played two-day cricket at our club except for three. “Some might have played in the lower grades when they were 12 or 13.” Facing Preston at Preston, the Bats made 7-252 after winning the toss. Naman Sharma top scored with 66 at the top of the order as all batters but one got starts. Besides not making the most of the short boundary, Rogneda was pretty happy with the
Plenty Valley.
(Joe Mastroianni) 303713_09
total that they put on the board. “We put on a really competitive score,” he said. “Naman Sharma opened the batting and made 60 something off 170 balls. It was his role to help us get to tea only two wickets down. “We were three down which was OK, but it gave us a good position to attack and go harder in the back half.
“For our first two-dayer I was really happy that we executed the game plan quite well.” Rogneda said they would have to bowl well this Saturday if they’re to get their fourth win of the season. With a different line up to last season, it’s been a somewhat challenging season at times. Rogneda said frustrating was the best way to describe it. “When you’re working with a young side
you get a lot of little wins,” he said. “You take a few steps forward and then a few steps back which is what we’ve had. “As a whole we’re improved throughout the year, but we still have a lot of areas in the game that we can improve. “They’re willing to listen and take on feedback and put it into practice at training. “We have three wins which is a reward for what we are trying to do.” Rogneda said overall numbers had been pretty good with the side getting some good wins across all the grades. He said their second XI was also a really young side, in good signs for the future. The Bats last week also started their T20 campaign, losing to St Bernard’s OC. St Bernard’s made 4-163 from its overs, with Simon Black the pick of the bowlers with three wickets. The Bats fell just short, finishing 7-154. Henry Cullen top scored with 44. Tara Murray
Briefs YPL The Northern Falcons finished runners-up in the under-15 female Youth Premier League. Facing the best players in the state, the Falcons topped their pool to win through to the grand final against the Breakers. The Falcons batted first and bowled out for 92, with Amy Long top scoring with 45. The Breakers hit the winning runs in the 20th over, finishing 4-93. Long and Emily Costigan took two wickets each for the Falcons.
Bowls Bundoora RSL had a big win against Mentone in the Bowls Victorian weekend pennant premier division. Returning after the Christmas break, Bundoora won 92 (18)-48 (0). Gary Kelly’s rink was the big winner for Bundoora, winning 27-11. Bundoora sits third on the ladder, 15 points behind Melbourne and one point behind Deer Park. Bundoora is on the road next week against Altona.
Northern FL
Plenty Valley stands tall
Bundoora has welcomed former AFL player Ben McNiece for the Northern Football League division 1 season. McNiece, who played 15 games for Essendon, joins the Bulls from Northcote Park, which was relegated to division 2. The Bulls said on social media that McNiece has great leadership and character traits that reflects and embraces the Bundoora culture.
By Tara Murray
NWMCA
Plenty Valley’s Kiara Jones.
(Shawn Smits) 200316_26
The belief is starting to grow for Plenty Valley in the Victorian Premier Cricket Women’s competition. After not winning a game last season, the Bats have won six games across the two formats, while have gone close in a couple of others. Bats head of female cricket Brett Cole said they had more than exceeded their expectations this season. “The focus in every game was being competitive,” he said. “No one has taken us to the cleaners, which has been fantastic. “We’re winning games and the twos are winning games and the thirds are close to winning games, it’s been a very positive season.” Cole said it was the more experienced players that were leading the way for the side, playing major roles. He said their batting had been their strength, but in their first game after the Christmas break had shown some really good signs in the field.
“The senior group has got together and hopefully will take us through to finals,” Cole said. “Our international Emma Corney, has been making runs on runs. Nipuni Hansika, who came from Carlton, has been batting well too. “Jas Nevins is performing as she normally does. Our top five or six are making runs. “We’re lacking with the fielding and bowling at times, but the fielding and bowling were the best we had done on the weekend.” The Bats just missed out on finals in the T20 competition, losing two matches they shouldn’t have lost. They currently sit third in the one-day competition. Cole said one of the challenges for the side this season was learning how to win after a couple of tough years. “We’ve been in every game, but we’ve lost games we should have never lost,” he said. “We lost chasing 251 after being 2-180, we let that one slip. “The week after we made 288 and lost that. We shouldn’t be losing those games. “We’re getting into positions to win with our
experienced players. “It’s about getting the others to do the job for you and they have most of the season, but they’ve had a couple of lapses.” With a strong start to the season, the Bats are keen to play finals this season. Cole said to be discussing playing finals was exciting for the club, but knows every win is vital in a close competition. “It’s been a very positive season so far, we want to push for finals,” he said. “Finals are very exciting and it’s not just that. “The twos are winning games and we’ve got young kids coming through. “The greatest thing about it is there is competition for all three teams. We’ve got some great depth.” On Sunday, the Bats suffered a disappointing loss to Carlton. Carlton made 8-188 from its overs, with Umasha Thimeshari the pick of the bowlers for the Bats with 2-14 off 10 overs. The Bats were in a solid position of 3-78 before the wickets started to fall with the side bowled out for 117 in 29 overs. Jasmine Nevins top scored with 61.
Gladstone Park are on top after day one of its two-day match with the Preston Druids in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association George Luscombe Shield. In a high scoring day, the Burras were bowled out for 392 in the 56th over. The Druids will resume at 4-153.
Premier Greenvale Kangaroos’ tough run continued in Victorian Premier Cricket. On Saturday, the Kangaroos made 7-173 from their 50 overs against Ringwood. James Bracey top scored with 45. Ringwood was made to work hard for the win, eventually finished 8-174. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly Tuesday, 17 January, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 17
SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Druids, Storm, Jaguars through to the next round The Druids, Sydenham-Hillside and Jacana were among the teams to seal spots in the next round of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition. With the pool round games continuing, due to washouts before Christmas, there was plenty of action on Tuesday night. The Druids claimed top spot in the Taylor group with victory against Footscray United. Both teams had earlier beaten Sunshine United. The Bulldogs made 8-102 from their 20 overs with Daniel Melican top scoring with 26. The Druids shared the wickets around with three players taking two wickets each. The Druids got off to flier, before losing three quick wickets. It mattered little as the Druids hit the winning runs with more than six overs to spare. Lahiru Kumara took 4-10 for the Bulldogs. Sydenham Hillside got one over local rival Caroline Springs and sealed its finals spot in
the Smith group. The Storm made 5-152 from its overs with Dylan Knight top scoring with 68. It was all single wicket takers for the Falcons The Falcons started off well and were 1-86. As they upped the run rate, the wickets fell as they were restricted to 7-133. Roshan Laksiri top scored with 43. Jacana, which is in division 5, beat Glenroy in an upset in the Waugh group. Jacana made 7-131 from its overs, with Damien Petrucciani top scoring with 42. Glenroy was bowled out for 113 with two balls remaining Kasun Mahela took 3-6 off 2.4 overs. The win was Jacana’s second and sealed top spot in their pool. In the Paine group, Grand United opened its account against Seddon. With both matches set to be played this week, it’s a busy few days for the Gorillas. Seddon decided to bat after winning the toss and managed to put on 90 for the first
wicket partnership. A few late wickets halted its run, with Seddon finishing 4-129 with Liam Braithwaite scoring 55 at the top of the order. Sachintha Silva took two wickets for the Gorillas. The Gorillas found themselves at 4-52, but the middle order got the job done, finishing 4-130. Nilan Fernando made 55 off 32 balls. Keilor kept its finals hopes alive in the Simpson group, beating Tullamarine. The Blues made 4-171, with Lucas Elliott top scoring with 73 All single wicket takers for the Demons The Demons started slowly and were in trouble at 4-17. The innings never really got going as they were restricted to 8-88, with David Scott finishing 35 not out. The Blues are now equal on points with West Coburg, which still has to face Tullamarine. In the Hassett group, Roxburgh Park beat the Greenvale Kangaroos. The Kangaroos made 7-123 with Obaid Ur
Rehman top scoring with 26. The wickets were shared around The Falcons made the runs with three balls remaining. They finished 6-126. Azadveer Singh top scored with 37. Meet Thakkar took four wickets for the Kangaroos Despite the win, the Falcons finals hopes are over. Haig Fawkner, which has won its only game, has a significantly better run rate, with a game to come against the Kangaroos. In the Morris group, St Albans got a consolidation win against St Andrews. St Andrews made 8-117 with Kenneth Pennyfeather top scoring with 49. Josh Morton and Mitchell Pittaway took three wickets each. St Albans 7-118 in reply with three balls remaining Sammika Perera with 42 at the top of the order. Thomas Stoneham took three wickets. Sunshine had already won through to the next round in that group. Tara Murray
New umpires get a chance
Laurimar’s Scott Millar.
(Joe Mastroianni) 303719_08
Power’s learning curve By Tara Murray It has been a learning curve for Laurimar this season in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Money Shield. After earning promotion for this season after winning the Mash Shield last season, the Power sits outside the top four as it heads into the back half of the season. Power coach Adam Drinkwell admits it has been tough at times. “So far it has been a real learning curve for us,” he said. “The main thing is we are learning every game. “Going up the teams you are playing are very well experienced and have been playing at this level for a while. “We’ve been learning and had some good days and some bad days. We keep showing up each week and we’ve been competitive in every game.” After losing some key personnel in the lead up to the season, the Power had to make some switches to its line. A very different looking line up to last season, the Power is starting to 18 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 January, 2023
find its feet and get some wins on the board. In the first game after Christmas, the Power played its best match, beating Montmorency in what Drinkwell said was a complete match. He said it was their best bowling performance of the season so far. “It’s good to get that confidence going into this part of the season,” he said. “Two-day cricket has been a challenge for all the clubs and finding all the right combinations. “We’ve had a lot of changes since last year.” On Saturday, the Power kicked off its two-day clash with Lower Eltham. The Power batted first and were bowled out for just 83 in the 45th over. Drinkwell top scored with 34, with just two players reaching double figures. It will be game on when the game resumes this Saturday, with Lower Eltham in trouble at 7-55. Drinkwell and Patrick Richardson have three wickets each for the Power. Drinkwell said the game wasn’t playing out how they expected it to.
“It was a funny day of cricket,” he said. “We thought it would favour the batting team, but 17 wickets fell and there weren’t a whole lot of runs. “The outfield was slow. It was good to be able to fight back and we go into next week 50-50.” Drinkwell said if they can gain a first innings lead, they’ll look to bat out the rest of the second day. Having started to find their feet in this grade, Drinkwell said they were keen to see what haptpens in the last few rounds. “The competition is really close and if you get on a roll and win three or four games, you’re right in,” he said. “The first goal is to cement a spot in the Money Shield and win a few games in the back part and who knows what will happen.” In other matches, Bundoora United made 7-322 against Mernda, while Bundoora Park made 5-254 against Montmorency. Eltham made 4-246 against Lalor Stars while a Prince Singh 100 helped the Bundoora to 6-323 against Plenty.
Some of the best umpires from Melbourne’s north-west will step up to umpire both the Victorian Football League and NAB League competitions. AFL Victoria announced that 46 umpires from their Community Umpire Talent Academy in Victoria had graduated and promoted to officiate at Victorian state league level in 2023, across both male and female competitions. The crop includes four females – one each in the field and boundary groups, and two goal umpires. After the first full season of community football since 2019, the academy provided 100 umpires the opportunity to officiate the best under-15 boys and girls from country Victoria in the V/Line Cup in September, where state league umpire coaches from all three disciplines – field, boundary and goal – attended to scout out the next batch of state league umpires. From there, the graduates were selected for the next step in their careers and were given the news late last year. Fourteen umpire clubs in total are represented with an even split of seven each from the metropolitan and country regions. Several umpires were selected from the Essendon District, Western Region and Northern football leagues. There were also umpires selected from the Ballarat and Bendigo football leagues. The boundary umpires who were promoted were, Shaylee Anderson and Michael Court, both from the Bendigo league, Lachlan Bezzina, who is from the EDFL, Northern Football’s Luke Gonis, Ballarat Umpires’ Oliver Pearce and Brock Reid and WRFL’s Angus Cameron and Lachlan Smith. Field umpires Liam Dye and Jenna Green (both EDFL), Northern Football League’s Ned Walsh and the WRFL’s Shannon Van Boven have been promoted. On the goal umpire side of things, the EDFL’s Issa Mikhael, NFL’s Jackson Mansell and WRFL’s Bradley Heffernan-Benfield have graduated. AFL Victoria is encouraging anyone interested in umpiring to get involved. Details: play.afl/umpire. Tara Murray
SPORT Work ahead for Westmeadows and Craigieburn Westmeadows and Craigieburn have work to do on day two of their Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division matches. Playing red ball cricket for the first time since before COVID-19, all teams were faced with a different challenge with the longer format. Westmeadows will need wickets early on day two against Yarraville Club. The Warriors were bowled out for 125 after being 0-58. Skipper Donovan Pell top scored with 34, while his opening partner Clayton Campbell made 31. The Clubbers will resume at 3-55. Pathum De Mel took two of the wickets. Sunshine United is on top after day one of its match with Craigieburn. The Eagles were bowled out for 184 in the 69th over. Sammy Laffan top scored with 70. Thomas O’Brien took three wickets for the Tigers. The Tigers faced eight overs at the end of the day and got through unscathed, finishing
Westmeadows have work to do on day two.
(Joe
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0-22. In other matches, Keilor and Deer Park are on top after good days with the bat against the Druids and St Albans. The Blues enjoyed the extra time at the crease, making 8-324 from their overs against
the Druids. Malith Cooray, who joined the Blues before Christmas from premier club Footscray, made 100 off 94 balls. Wicketkeeper Chetan Arjun, who came in at number seven, made a handy 71. Nathan Johnson took three wickets for the Druids. Deer Park, which is searching for a fourth straight win, made 367 as it was bowled out with an over to spare against St Albans. Haig Fawkner has the upper hand against Aberfeldie. In division 1, Tullamarine has already conceded first innings points against West Coburg. The Demons were bowled out for just 41 in 16 overs. West Coburg passed that one wicket down and will resume at 6-183. In division 2, Royal Park-Brunswick were bowled out for 217 against the Greenvale Kangaroos. In division 4, Roxburgh Park’s match with
Maribyrnong Park St Marys is set for an interesting day two. The Falcons were bowled out for 151 with Abdul Bari Khan Khalil batting through the innings and finishing 69 not out. Maribyrnong was cruising at 0-54, but late wickets then fell. Maribyrnong will resume at 5-84. In division 5, Jacana’s innings was full of a lot of starts without anyone starring. The Jaguars were bowled out for 181 against Burnside Springs, with Anuk Alwis and Chamila Karigawasaw top scoring with 32 apiece. Burnside will resume at 1-23. Donnybrook has work to do in its clash with East Coburg. East Coburg made 6-260 from its overs, declaring with 10 overs remaining on day one. It proved to be the right move, with Donnybrook losing two early wickets. Donnybrook will resume at 2-10. Tara Murray
Rivergum’s Nathan Fowler.
(Joe
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Kookas are in
Hume City scores in a pre-season match.
(SG Media/Hume City)
Hume City looks ahead By Tara Murray Hume City is hoping to put a disastrous 2022 behind it as it aims high in the National Premier League. Having narrowly avoided relegation, Hume has been putting in a lot of hard work behind the scenes throughout the off season. Ersan Gulum, who took over late last season, has been reappointed and will lead the team again. Hume senior assistant coach Halil Hussein said they’d had a big pre-season so far and things were looking good. He said the opportunity for Gulum to coach some games late last season had given them a head start. “The transition has been really good,” he said. “Ersan got to see everyone during that time and was able to assess everybody to plan for this year. “He was able to see what we needed and who we needed to sign and gave him a good chance to have a look at everybody.” The core group from last season has
returned, with five or six additions added to the side. Leo Mazis, who spent time with the Celtic FC youth squad, Zach Maltby, who comes down from Queensland, Yagoub Mustafa, who will add to the front third, and Tomas Maricic have all committed to the club. James Brown returns to the club after a short stint elsewhere in another bonus for the club. The club has also signed international Dylan McGlade. The midfielder joins Hume from League of Ireland First Division club, Cork City FC after spending the last 10 years in The Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom. Hussein said they had put a lot of work in to get McGlade across to Australia. He was expected to arrive next week. “He comes across from Ireland where he has a lot of experience playing at the top level over there,” he said. “We’re excited for him to arrive and he’s going to provide some quality, and hopefully keep us as high as possible. “Ersan and our president did a lot of hard
work along with the scouts in the UK. We found the player that we needed for the attacking area. “He’s a player who can make his mark in the league.” Danny Dixon, Alex Walter and Lucas Trenkovski are among the players who have departed the club. Hussein said they believed they had the squad to achieve some good results this season, it was a matter of putting it on the park. The club has won its three pre-season matches so far. “For us as coaching staff, we know we have got quality in the changerooms, it’s about putting it on the pitch,” he said. “We’re giving them tools in training sessions and they need to perform at a high level. We struggled last year. “We have the depth and in our mind we want to be as close to the top as possible. The boys are looking forward to it and they’re putting last year behind us.” “They’re using it as motivation.” Hume kicks off its season on February 16 against Altona Magic.
The final eight for the Northern Region T20 competition have been completed with Rivergum claiming the final spot. The first seven qualifying finalists had been decided after the pool rounds, after finishing on top of their pools respectively. Rivergum and Macleod, which won their pools, were the lowest ranked pool winners and faced off in an elimination final on Tuesday night. The Kookas won the toss and sent Macleod in, with Macleod making 7-169. Reid Brandt top scored with 58 at the top of the order. Kookas captain-coach Matthew Perri was the standout bowler, taking 4-26 off his four overs. The Kookas started well and were above the required run rate. Despite a late scare, with the Kookas losing three late wickets, the Kookas claimed the win. They finished 6-171 with nearly three overs remaining. Nathan Fowler starred with the bat, making 74 off 27 balls. The Kookas now face last season’s title winners Bundoora Park in the qualifying finals. In the other finals, North Eltham Wanderers host Laurimar, Bundoora plays Riverside and Rosanna will face Montmorency. Meanwhile on Saturday, Rivergum beat the Northern Socials in the North Metro Cricket Association Jika Shield. The Socials made 7-147 from their 40 overs, with Perri taking two wickets for the Kookas. The Kookas had little trouble in the run chase, hitting the winnings runs with more than 13 overs remaining. Perri was the star with the bat, finishing 81 not out off 76 balls. The Kookas sit second on the ladder, six points behind Holy Trinity. Tuesday, 17 January, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 19
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