Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 24th January 2023 by Star Weekly

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Grant grows vegetation

Grow West co-ordinator Lindy MacRaild is leading rejuvenation works along the Werribee River near Ballan. (Damjan Janevski) 316139_02

Moorabool Landcare Network has received a $20,000 grant from Greater Western Water (GWW) for a Grow West-run project to revitalise native vegetation along the Werribee River. For 20 years Grow West has been working with community organisations in Melbourne’s west on an ambitious landscape restoration project aimed at restoring native vegetation and creating “biolinks” between large areas of remnant vegetation like the Lerderderg state Park and Brisbane ranges. The GWW grant will go towards revitalising an area of the Werribee river near Ballan which involved weed control of invasive species like serrated tussock, and replacing it with of 5000 native seedlings. Grow West co-ordinator Lindy MacRaild said the “generous” donation is going towards “important” work. “We’re looking forward to being able to get in and do some weed control and replace it with some native vegetation,” she said. “Linking helps animal movement throughout the landscape and being able to do this planting along the river also contributes to river health which helps the whole catchment,” she said.

Lifeguard pool shrinking By Liam McNally Melton Waves Leisure Centre has been forced to occasionally lower its guest capacity and temporarily close pools as it battles a lifeguard shortage. The centre is feeling the pinch of a statewide shortage of lifeguards and is seeking more young people from the community to get involved in lifeguard work. Life Saving Victoria (LSV) aquatic industry services manager Alek Olszewski said the aquatic industry was one of the hardest hit by COVID-19, as it was “one of the first to close

and last to reopen following lockdowns”. “LSV continues to train record numbers of lifeguards but despite this, some Victorian regions have still struggled to recruit staff members.” Aquatic facilities are required to have a ratio of one lifeguard to 100 guests for still water, and one guard to 40 guests for moving water. Melton Waves has a 50-metre outdoor pool, a 25-metre indoor pool, a wave pool, a warm water pool, and a spa. Facility manager Shaun Wyatt said that before lockdowns, at any given time the centre would have had up to 12 lifeguards on but this summer it had about six.

“You used to throw out an ad, and you’d have 10 people-plus apply, and you might only have four positions and you could choose from those 10 who were gonna be the strongest … [now] we could easily take on another 10 lifeguards,” he said. “The ones that are coming through as soon as they’re doing it they’re loving it. “I’d love to see more young people come and enjoy a job that is very rewarding, and a job where you get to create a safe environment for swimmers and the public from the Melton community.” Mr Olszewski said LSV is endorsing

Victorian government programs to boost lifeguard and swim teacher numbers including the New Wave and Youth Aquatic Accreditation Programs. “We strongly encourage people who want to give back to their communities and to live a more active lifestyle to get in touch with their local aquatic facility and to become a lifeguard,” he said. “It’s a great way to give back to your community, a great industry to work in and a good way to make a little bit of extra money in the current economic circumstances.”

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Officers quizzed alleged killer By Karen Sweeney, AAP Detectives investigating the disappearance of Melbourne campers Russell Hill and Carol Clay interviewed their suspected killer nearly 18 months before he was arrested. Two Victoria Police officers spoke to airline pilot Greg Lynn for about an hour at his Caroline Springs kitchen bench in July 2020 about his movements when the campers disappeared three months earlier. The couple disappeared while camping in the remote Wonnangatta Valley on March 20, 2020. It’s alleged Lynn, who has pleaded not guilty to two murder charges, killed them that day. Mr Hill’s car was found beside their burnt-out campsite on March 27 and their bodies were discovered in remote bushland

near Dargo, in the Victorian alpine region, days after Lynn’s arrest in November 2021. Lynn is facing a committal hearing in Melbourne Magistrates Court, where the evidence against him is being tested. Detective Senior Constable Abbey Justin was one of the officers who interviewed Lynn, then a witness, in July 2020. She told the court Lynn’s car was one of a dozen picked up by automatic number plate recognition cameras at the Hotham Alpine Resort between 9.40am and 10am on March 21, 2020. Phone data had placed Mr Hill’s phone in the area at the time, prompting officers to review footage. Det Justin said the 11 other cars picked up by the camera had also been captured on two number plate recognition cameras on the

other side of the alpine resort and eliminated as a result. She said she and Detective Brett Florence had gone to Lynn’s house to find out movements of his vehicle that day. “We had the car going through ANPR. We needed to confirm who was driving,” she said on Tuesday. Det Justin also took a photo of Lynn’s car at the home. She believed it was the same vehicle although it was a different colour. She said the pictures showed it had been a dark colour - navy or grey. A beige Nissan Patrol was seized by police when Lyn was arrested and charged with murder in November 20 21. On Monday January 16 a witness described seeing a “grumpy” Russell Hill driving along a narrow track to a campsite, looking like a man

Nomination a ‘surreal’ experience A Caroline Springs teenager has been nominated for the 2022 Victorian 7NEWS Young Achiever Awards for her broad contributions to community leadership, first aid volunteering, and disability awareness. Kayla Parker, 17, is a Keilor Downs College student nominated for the Saward Dawson Community Service and Social Impact Award. Kayla is a youth volunteer St JohnsAmbulance, a Brimbank youth leader, is on her school’s Student Voice and Leadership team, A YMCA Swimathon youth ambassador, and has been awarded the Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork award and Keilor Downs College’s community service award and outstanding contribution to the school community award. She is also a disability awareness advocate, at the age of five, Kayla was diagnosed with a connective tissue disorder known as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). As a result of the diagnosis, she spent the majority of her early years in a wheelchair. Kayla has raised awareness for people living with “invisible disabilities” by giving talks, including on TV and raising the official EDS flag outside of Treasury place with the Victorian premier in 2014. More recently, she has continued this work through the Western Bulldogs Youth leadership project, and her Instagram account @wbinvisible_but_real. Kayla said being nominated has been a “surreal experience”. “Because all the volunteer work that i have done and am still doing, you don’t do it because you want to be recognised for it, you do it because you want to bring out long-lasting positive changes within all your communities, but to know that someone has

Kayla, 17, has been nominated for a Victorian Young Achiever award.

seen that, and has recognised that is a huge thing,” she said. Finalists for the Young Achiever Awards will be presented and winners announced

with a place to be. Weed sprayer Robert Williams had stepped off to the side of the track, ready to have a conversation with the driver of the white LandCruiser, as he had with others passing him on March 20. But the “grumpy old bugger in his 70s put his foot down, (and) zoomed past” without even waving. He recognised Mr Hill days later when news reports came out that he and Ms Clay were missing in the area he had seen them. He described watching a drone for 35 or 40 minutes later that day as it circled over him and rudely hovered over campsites. “You’re going down there to have a peaceful camp and somebody’s flying a drone over top of you,” he said. The hearing is continuing this week.

Taking action on creatives A free artist development program is being offered to emerging creatives in Melton. ArtsAction is being delivered by Pop Up Art with the support of Melton council and five other municipalities to provide professional development in art industry skills like action-taking, collaborative work, building market reach, career pathways, refining skills and broadening networks. The course will be delivered entirely online and is made up of the components. The first is a six-part email pack aimed at providing inspiration and practical information to get artists thinking and taking action in developing a creative career. The second component is a series of six interactive Zoom sessions delivered to help connect with and strengthen your networks, effectively prepare for new opportunities and grow your market reach. The final component is an online community group designed to be a place for artists and creatives to ask questions and share ideas, knowledge, and inspiration. The platform also aims to strengthen connections and provide support networks as artists move forward in their creative endeavors. The course will run from January to June 2023, and details and bookings are available on the Pop Up Art website.

(Damjan Janevski) 316122_02

at an Awards Gala Presentation Dinner on Friday, April 28. Liam McNally

Don’t rely on your mains water supply in a bushfire. While we always prepare for the fire season, we can’t guarantee water pressure, supply or quality in a bushfire.

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Always follow CFA advice and remember leaving early is the safest option.

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What’s your vision for Melton? By Liam McNally An opportunity to revitalise the Melton Town Centre is on the horizon, and so council is asking the community to help guide plans for its future. Melton Town Centre, the High Street shopping and dining precinct surrounding the clocktower, dates back 150 years. Melton council said the centre has been impacted significantly by nearby retail competition, a lack of public transport connections, physical access limitations, changing consumer behaviour and a challenging economic climate.

‘‘

Together we can return High Street to being the vibrant, bustling heart of Melton - Lara Carli

’’

Recognising an opportunity to attract more visitors and revive its economy, council has released the Melton Town Centre Revitalisation Plan Discussion Paper for community consultation. The paper outlines key issues and opportunities that were highlighted during

initial community consultation and research. It also sets out the vision for the precinct’s revitalisation and for future development opportunities. It’s part of the Melton Town Centre Revitalisation Plan which is funded with more than $3 million from the state government’s Suburban Revitalisation Program. Mayor Lara Carli said council is working with the community to share ideas for a town centre that “everyone will want to visit and where businesses will thrive.” “Together we can return High Street to being the vibrant, bustling heart of Melton. We have a fantastic asset here in Melton’s

town centre and we want to realise its full potential,” she said. “We’re working with the community to share ideas for a town centre that everyone will want to visit and where businesses will thrive. “This is about making it easier to get around and bringing a new energy to the area that will help to boost the incredible existing businesses and attract new shops, restaurants and cafes for everyone to enjoy.” Feedback on the plan is open until Wednesday, March 1. Details: conversations. melton.vic.gov.au/mtc-revitalisation-plan

Best budgies on show The Melton and District Budgerigar Society is inviting the community to its annual show at Melton Catholic Regional College on February 11. Over 400 birds from across the state will be judged on their size, deportment and features, with the best budgie of the day being awarded a diploma certificate. Bird-lovers are also invited to learn more about the society, as it is currently seeking new members. The Melton and District Budgerigar Society has been active for about 25 years, and it competes on a local and state level, and has had birds selected for national competitions. People can sign up their budgies for either “show standard” or “pet standard” competitions. Society show manager and committee

member Patrick Vella is a self-described “mad-keen breeder” who currently has about 350 budgies. He said what sets a show-budgie apart is directional feathers, long feathers on the face, and large round on their mask, and that the Melton club is one of the strongest in the state. “We constantly run second or third, and have won a couple of times at the state level,” he said. The club meets once a month to informally compete and chat budgies outside of the main events. “It’s a good hobby for a family, because it’s something everyone can do, it’s not just a dad thing or a mum thing or a kids thing, they can all get involved,” Mr Vella said. For more details contact society secretary Carmel Cricelli, on 0400 966 738.

Patrick Vella with some of his competition budgerigars.

(Damjan Janevski) 315738_04

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re upgrading the Sunbury Line to allow bigger, more modern trains to run on the line. We are also building Melbourne Airport Rail, connecting Victorians to Melbourne Airport for the first time with a new rail service. Buses replace trains in both directions on the Sunbury Line 8.30pm 3 February to last train 5 February

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8.30pm 8 February to last train 12 February

North Melbourne to Sunshine

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Rate cap ‘makes sense’: CEO By Liam McNally A state government decision to set the local government rate cap at 3.5 per cent for next financial year “makes sense” given current inflation, according to Moorabool council’s chief executive. Last month, the state government announced that the 2023-24 rate cap would be 3.5 per cent, which is double the 2022-23 cap of 1.75 per cent. The cap is the highest since rate capping was introduced by the government in 2016. The 2023-24 rate cap was set 0.5 per cent lower than the Essential Services Commission’s (ESC) recommendation of 4

per cent. The ESC provides the government with independent advice in line with the Consumer Price Index. A government spokesperson said the decision to set the rate cap lower than the ESC advice was to take into account the cost of living pressures facing ratepayers. Moorabool council chief executive Derek Madden said council acknowledges the rate cap “makes sense” given inflation is running at about 7 per cent. “In setting a rate cap, the Victorian government needs to balance the broader financial challenges faced by Victorian ratepayers with the need to ensure local government remains financially sustainable

in the long term,” he said. “It is important to note that in the last three financial years, the rate cap has increased at less than a third of the rate of inflation. This does present challenges for councils recovering from the pandemic and impacted by recent weather and storm events while catering to the needs of a fast-growing community. “Council is currently preparing its budget and will be considering the amount rates will need to increase in order for council to maintain the level of services expected by residents.” Melton council chief financial officer Peter Leersen said council hasn’t met since the rate cap announcement, but it will be discussed in

preparation of the 2023-24 budget. “The rate cap has introduced long-term financial sustainability challenges for local government. Council continues to budget and plan its services and capital program with a focus on financial sustainability,” he said. “Council faces many financial challenges in delivering increased services and much needed community facilities to keep pace with population growth. Over the past year council has experienced significantly higher operational costs including gas and electricity and increases ranging from 20-40 per cent for construction projects such as park upgrades and new community buildings and sporting facilities.”

Sculpture taking shape A new sculpture embodying the theme of growth is being prepared for The Avenue park in Caroline Springs. Sydney artist Jade Oakley has been hard at work producing the piece, which will comprise a steel sculpture at the playground, and series of etchings in the pathway leading up to it. The sculpture will look like two large leaves on a steel stem, with the veins of the leaves depicting a map of Caroline Springs. Oakley said her inspiration for the sculpture came from looking at maps of Caroline Springs, which reminded her of how the patterns of the community growing across the landscape were “just like the patterns in nature of growth.” “The idea of growth is very much embedded in this sculpture … if you think about the

patterns of roots in the soil, or the patterns of veins in a leaf, those sorts of patterns look almost like tiny streetscapes,” she said. Oakley said the work will also use art created by community members during workshops she conducted. “I love about it the artworks that various members of the community have done are going to be in the park for a very, very long time,” she said. “It’s a really nice way of making it very much a part of the community – by the community and for the community.” The project was facilitated by Melton council and T Projects, and Creative Road is assisting Oakley with fabrication of the project. The completed artwork is due to be installed by the end of February.

Jade Oakley and her team preparing the new steel sculpture. (Dominika Ferenz)

Liam McNally

A festival for I, You and Us A multicultural bazaar showcasing international food, clothing and art, will be held at the Melton Community Centre next month. Organised by Human and Moral Development Centre (HMDC), the bazaar, called I, You and Us, will be a platform for Melton residents to learn more about the multicultural Muslim community living in the municipality, according to event co-ordinator Rahayu Johan. “We may share the same religion but each of us have our own cultures that will be shared either through food, clothes, art, games and activities” she said. “All residents in the City of Melton are welcome to join.” Visitors to the I, You and Us festival will be able to sample food from Malaysia, sweets from Indonesia, clothes from Somalia, Sri Lankan Henna, and much more.

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For kids, there will be popcorn, fairy-floss and slushies flavoured with middle-eastern Juddo’s Juice. HMDC is a non-for-profit organisation that since 2019 has aimed to elevate and support migrant communities in Melton with the vision to empower a sense of social responsibility in the community. Ms Rahayu said the bazaar is designed to be “a fun way of introducing and sharing our cultures with other people”. “I would really love for everyone to come and meet up with people, meet up with neighbours, whether you are a Muslim or non-Muslim, any religion,” she said. “If this takes off well, we want to do it on a yearly basis and with more cultures and more religions involved together with us.” The event will be held on February 4. Liam McNally

Pricing under the pump

Pricing under the pump By Benjamin Millar

‘‘

strongly encourage residents to complain to the ACCC

’’

- Steve McGhie

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

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

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

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

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

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By Benjamin Millar

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

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I, You and Us organisers Abdul Aziz Manan, Fadilah Oyhman, Rahayu Johan, Shahruddin Alwi, Andit Budiman, Haji Mohamad Rashid and Suhana Salim. (Damjan Janevski) 315975_01

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Bullet bike A 21-year-old Melton man has been charged following an extensive Air Wing follow throughout Melbourne’s north-western suburbs. The Air Wing observed a motorcycle travelling in excess of 200km/h on the Melton Highway at Melton about 3.30pm on Thursday, January 19. Police said the rider then took the motorcycle off-road in an effort to evade police before he was ultimately arrested in Presidents Park at Wyndham Vale about 4.20pm.

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Melton Explosion were the runner-ups in division four of the 2023 Wimmera Friendly 8-Ball Invitational.

Melton in the pocket

In the past week alone, 106 jobs have been added to the Melton Jobs Hub, located within a 25-kilometre radius of Melton. There are currently 373 jobs listed on the hub. Details: https:// www.meltonjobshub.com.au

Tumbleweeds A Melton 8-Ball pool league travelled to Western Victoria to compete against some of the best pool players in the country, and took home two podium positions. The Melton 8-ball league sent two teams of seven players to the 2023 Wimmera Friendly 8-Ball Invitational on January 14 and 15. It’s division four team, Melton Explosion finished second, while the division five team, Melton Sharks took out the top spot on the day. Melton Explosion received a $400 prize for its efforts, while Melton Sharks took home $900 for first place. League president Dale Spinner was the Melton league’s star of the day, winning seven of his eight games. Melton Explosion player Peter Auld said the Melton league got an “excellent” result competing against around 340 players, including multiple Australian champions. “We virtually took half our league up there

.. it was pretty nerve racking actually, playing a lot of players, and a lot of them were a lot better than us, but we rose to the occasion,” he said. “We were stoked because we’re a very small league, and to win one division and get runner up in the other one was a very good effort. “It was a fantastic weekend.” The Melton 8-Ball League normally play out of Xplosions Bar and Bowl in Bakery Square Melton on Wednesday nights, and is currently seeking more players to sign up for its upcoming season, which begins February 8. Mr Auld said players can sign up for $30 for a season or $40 for a year, which includes a summer and winter season. “We’d love to grow [the league] and get a few more teams,” he said. Players interested in joining should contact Peter Auld on 0412 102 375. Liam McNally

Some properties in the City of Melton have been impacted by tumbleweeds. Council has been using a specialist vacuum truck to clear the bulk of the tumbleweed material from private properties and public roads. Affected residents can also drop off the tumbleweeds at Melton Recycling Facility for free. Details: https://www. melton.vic.gov.au/

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Call to reconsider Australia Day By Liam McNally A leader of a Melton Aboriginal corporation has suggested Melton council rethink its approach to January 26. This is the first year councils no longer need to hold a citizenship ceremony on January 26, following federal law changes. Melton council is going ahead with its usual Australia Day celebration on January 26, with a citizenship ceremony, speeches from community award winners, a sausage sizzle, and live entertainment. Kirrip chief executive Peter Webster said he

wants council to “re-evaluate their stance” on January 26. “Melton council is very supportive of Kirrip, and is very supportive of the Aboriginal community around Melton,” he said. “Personally I would love to see them do something more in the way of Maribyrnong [council’s event], or at least cut out the citizenship ceremony on the 26th of January. “The 26th of January is a date that actually separates all Australians, it doesn’t bring everyone together, it’s not a national celebration.” Melton council chief executive Roslyn Wai

said arrangements for a citizenship ceremony on January 26 were made before the federal government’s announcement, and about 200 people had already been invited to become new citizens on this day. Ms Wai said council’s reconciliation advisory committee has not met since the federal government’s announcement, but it intends to discuss the federal change and provide advice to council for future years. This January 26, Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation is holding a Survival Day Breakfast to support the community while it mourns and remembers ancestors who can

only be present in spirit. Mr Webster said the breakfast, which will be happening at Kirrip on Exford Road from 9.30am, will be for all the community. “It’s a place where people can come and heal … elders can share their views and their stories with our younger generation and pass on to them what’s happened in the past … what historically our ancestors have gone through and fought for,” he said. Mr Webster is a proponent of changing the date of Australia’s national celebration to the day Australia officially became a nation on January 1.

Hundreds of new swim teacher jobs

Kids from Deanside Primary School celebrating the announcement of AVID Property Group’s grants last year. (Provided)

Jump at the chance to secure cash Community Groups and charities can now apply for thousands of dollars in community grants offered by Carolina – a growing master-planned community in Deanside by AVID Property Group. AVID Victoria project director Danny Boubli said grant applications close on February 10, and the successful applicants would be announced mid-February. He encouraged local community groups, schools, and charities to apply. “This is the second year we have offered grants from Carolina through AVID Property Group’s Sponsorship and Grants Program,” Mr Boubli said.

“Our sponsorship program is a way for us to give back to the community and we encourage any groups or charities who could do with a helping hand to apply. Our range of available grants reflect the importance of lasting community partnerships at a local level and are typically open to newcomers, as well as those who have applied previously.” To be considered for the grants, applicants are encouraged to visit the Carolina website and ensure their group is eligible by reading the terms and conditions and completing the online application. The $10,000 in funding is split between

successful applicants based on their specific needs. Last year’s recipients were Caroline Springs Scout Group and the newly established Deanside Primary School, with each group receiving $5000. Deanside Primary School put the $5000 towards equipment for its school gym including paediatric defibrillators in preparedness for emergencies. Caroline Springs Scout Group used its $5000 to buy five new, six-person tents. Details: https://carolina.avid.com.au/ sponsorship/ Liam McNally

Melton and Moorabool children will be safer around the water this summer following the launch of a state government program to create hundreds of new swim teacher roles. Employment Minister Ben Carroll visited the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC) to see how SWIM, a $3.4 million partnership between Jobs Victoria and SWIM Coaches & Teachers Australia, is delivering 280 employment opportunities at pools and leisure centres around the state. “We’re supporting people to gain new qualifications so they can find secure work and help the sector address a shortage of skilled swim teachers,” Mr Carroll said. “With Victorians heading to our beaches, rivers, lakes and pools this summer, these jobs ensure everyone can safely enjoy the water.” As well as boosting the number of children learning to swim, the program is giving Victorians looking for work the opportunity to begin a new and fulfilling career.Participants are paid while they complete pre-employment training, including the nationally accredited Swim Australia Teacher of Swimming and Water Safety course, and training in First Aid and CPR. Details: 1300 208 575.

(Rajat Sarki/Unsplash)

Population growth guides Moorabool’s major works in 2023 Although conversations around population growth are often centred around growth corridor municipalities like Melton and Wyndham, Moorabool is also a fast growing area, with a population predicted to double to almost 72,000 by 2041. To keep up with the population boom, Moorabool council has a number of projects in the pipeline for 2023. The projects include repairing damaged infrastructure, and upgrading recreation and community centres. Moorabool mayor Rod Ward said improving 8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

roads will be a “major focus”. “There has been widespread damage from the large amount of rain and flooding last year. Recently we increased our maintenance budget by $600,000 so we can move to fix our roads as quickly as possible,” he said. “This additional maintenance spending is on top of the $11.7 million allocated in council’s current budget to improve roads, bridges, footpaths and drainage in the shire and an additional $500,000 in flood recovery funding from the state government – a total of $12.8 million to be spent on roads.”

Cr Ward also outlined what recreation and community facility projects are on the horizon for 2023. “In the next 12 months we will be finishing construction on the basketball stadium in Bacchus Marsh, pavilions at the main reserves in Ballan and Darley, the ovals and new playspace at the Bacchus Marsh Racecourse and Recreation Reserve, skate parks in Ballan and Gordon, and upgrades at Navigators Community Centre,” he said. “We’ll also open the next stage of Telford Park at the foot of the Bacchus Marsh 1000+

Steps, and start work on the West Maddingley Early Years Hub, the bowls and community hub in Bacchus Marsh, and the Ballan Library and Community Hub. “We will also continue to advocate strongly for an indoor pool for the shire and for the community’s voice to be heard on important issues such as the transmission lines proposal and investment in the Parwan Employment Precinct.”

Liam McNally

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Growth ‘unprecedented’: Mayor By Liam McNally The Melton-Bacchus Marsh region has been revealed as having one of Australia’s fastest growing populations, according to new data from KPMG. The data revealed the Melton-Bacchus Marsh area was the sixth fastest-growing in the country, and the third fastest growing in Victoria. Melton-Bacchus Marsh’s estimated population has grown by 20,500 from 2019 to 2022, to a total of 204,000 people. The area had

an annual growth rate of 3.6 per cent. Melton mayor Lara Carli said Melton’s growth rate is “unprecedented”. “Council is working hard to make sure our infrastructure not only keeps up with population growth, but improves services and amenity for everyone,” she said. Nearby Wyndham was Australia’s fastest-growing area between 2019 and 2022 with 34,500 additional residents. Wyndham covers almost 20 suburbs containing a significant number of greenfield developments. KPMG demographics expert Terry Rawnsley

said significant road and rail investments over the past 20 years, combined with development-ready land has resulted in strong population growth. “The growth areas have offered new residents affordable housing compared to most established parts of Melbourne,” he said. Brimbank recorded the fifth largest population decline in Australia, losing 8800 people since 2019, at a rate of 1.5 per cent a year. Mr Rawnsley said despite the strict international border closures through the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic, Australia has

added more than one million new residents since December 2019. Nearly a quarter of those new residents have settled in one of the top 10 fastest growing areas. The 2022 growth rate nationally was 1.7 per cent, the highest since March 2017, and was driven by the opening of the international border. Australia’s population has now exceeded 26 million people for the first time. Victoria made the largest contribution to population growth (127,000), although Queensland continues to have the highest population growth rate of 2.1 per cent.

Baby, what a great name Victoria’s most popular baby names from the past year have been revealed, with Charlotte and Oliver coming in at number one for the third year in a row. The Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages Victoria revealed there were 593 babies named Oliver in the last year, and 367 named Charlotte. The name Oliver has cemented its place as number one, continuing it’s nine-year streak while Charlotte continues its shorter three-year streak. New mum Kate Galling said she chose the name Oliver for her new baby as she had always liked it. “We’ve loved the name for a long time,” she said. “I have two other children named Zachary and James, and Oliver felt like it fitted in.” Over the course of its nine-year reign, 4790 babies across the state have been named Oliver.

Ms Galling said Oliver is now 10-months old and is happy as ever. “He is the happiest boy on the planet – he loves life,” she said. Other popular names for boys included Noah, Jack, Charlie, and Leo, and for girls Olivia, Isla, Amelia, and Mia. Millicent Spencer

Mum Kate Gelling with her 10-month-old son Oliver. (Damjan Janevski) 315729_01

Lower bills, bigger thrills

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kfi oo r B e l y at Lifest

Scan the QR code with your camera to find your nearest Lifestyle Community.

lifestyle brookfield

111- 139 Coburns Road, Brookfield I 1300 50 55 60 12585525-FC04-23

Tuesday, 24 January, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 9

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Vic Pol starts mass hiring drive By Millicent Spencer More than 40,000 people who’ve expressed interest in pursuing a career in policing will be contacted as part of a major recruitment drive across the state. Potential recruits who have previously applied to join Victoria Police but missed out, registered for a careers information session or signed up to learn about the police fitness test will be contacted over coming weeks. Those who have withdrawn an application will also be included.

Anyone from 2016 onwards who has been in contact with police about a career will receive an email or phone call to speak about future Victoria Police’s career options. Victoria Police recruitment division’s acting superintendent Charmaine Hosking said the opportunity to join the police could be the start of an amazing career for Victorians. “Policing is a challenging, rewarding career and we don’t want anyone to discount all it can provide,” she said. According to Victoria Police, it’s the first time they have embarked on such a large

recruitment effort. “We know these people have shown an interest in policing at some point so it makes sense to check in,” acting superintendent Hosking said. “Life circumstances change, people’s priorities change and now might just be the time for them to pick up where they left off. “The start of the year is a great time for people to evaluate their career options.” In addition to the outreach drive, Victoria police will be hosting a careers expo at Kensington Town Hall on January 18 between

3pm-8pm. The expo will enable potential recruits to learn more about the opportunities working in policing can provide and give them the chance to meet police working in general duties and specialist units. “We haven’t held a careers expo since before COVID, so please take the opportunity to come along and talk to our recruitment team,” acting superintendent Hosking said. “That’s why we’re so keen to get out and talk to anyone keen to pull on the blue uniform.” Details: police.vic.gov.au/police

Free men’s health help Men are being encouraged to get active and learn more about supporting their health, as part of the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation’s Sons of the West program. In partnership with local councils and community health services across Victoria, Sons of the West is a free 10-week health program for men, with the 2023 program commencing in March. Program participant Mike Dunne said the benefits of the program include weight changes and improvement in overall wellbeing. “I now have regular medical checks, I’m more outgoing and reduced my weight significantly thus reducing potential health issues later in life,” he said. “Sons of the West changed my life for the good and will continue to further on into the future.” Fellow participant Anthony Camilleri said the program is the reason behind his discovery of heart health and other health issues.

“From the first session, they challenged us to go for a health check,” he said. “To my surprise, I was told that some time in the past I had a heart attack. “I was admitted to Western Private Hospital where three stents were inserted to clear a totally blocked artery attached to my heart.” Sons of the West is open to men aged 18 and over who live in west of Melbourne and Victoria. Details: www.westernbulldogs.com.au/ foundation/about-us/expression-of-interest or foundation@westernbulldogs.com.au

Arthur Jones and Jamarra Ugle-Hagan (front) with the Melton graduates of the 2022 program. (Shawn Smits)

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here PRINT AND ONLINE SALES EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED

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

12570945-JC40-22

10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

FEATURING ... MY BUSINESS

Advertising feature

Enjoy a swim in the pool and spa or even head into the wellness zone at Woodlea.

Enjoy the multi million dollar clubhouse at Woodlea.

(Pictures: Supplied)

Downsize to a more affordable lifestyle at Woodlea Downsize to a more affordable lifestyle at Lifestyle Woodlea. With interest rates, household bills, groceries and the general cost of living on the rise, it makes sense that Australians over 50 are looking for affordable solutions for their retirement and pre-retirement years. Downsizing to a low-maintenance home at Lifestyle Communities could be the finance-savvy solution you’ve been looking for. Perhaps the biggest way your bank account (and lifestyle) will benefit when you downsize,

is freeing up the equity that’s sitting in your current home. On average, our homeowners free up $240K – $250K of equity when they sell their large family home and downsize to a Lifestyle Community, providing financial security and the freedom to spend more on the things they love. Lifestyle Communities homeowners find they also save on their day-to-day expenses. Lifestyle Woodlea is a fully electric community and is powered by it’s own microgrid which reduces our homeowners bills by up to 30 per

cent;. Gone are the days where you pay council rates, water rates and sewage rates. You’ll also save on your household insurance costs because you live in a secure, gated community. You can also choose to ditch your car or use it less to save on running costs as Lifestyle Woodlea has a community electric car, e-bikes and a shuttle bus for our homeowners to take for a spin whenever they choose. Most importantly, when you make the move to a Lifestyle Community, you’ll enjoy 24-hour access to incredible amenities right on your

doorstep, including a multi million dollar clubhouse complete with swimming pool, spa and wellness zone plus with Woodlea Home Co right on your doorstep, you won’t have to travel far shopping our meals out. With homes starting from $410,000 and 1, 2 and 3 bedroom options available you won’t be short on choice at Lifestyle Woodlea. For more information visit lifestylewoodlea.com.au

G R RATIN E G N A D FIRE TODAY

OW CTION N TAKE A

Don’t travel to bushland on Extreme Fire Danger Rating days. If you plan to travel through Victoria during fire season, it’s important to check the Fire Danger Rating every day. If the rating is Extreme or Catastrophic, avoid travelling to high risk bush or grassfire areas. It’s safer to travel to cities or towns for the day.

Plan. Act. Survive. Go to emergency.vic.gov.au

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12580860-HC04-23

Tuesday, 24 January, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Proud to be Australian citizens Becoming an Australian citizen is a dream come true for many migrants, as Jordan Doherty and Millicent Spencer discovered.

ou might struggle to find prouder Australians than St Albans’ Havinder Singh and South Morang’s Swati Sharma on Thursday, January 26. Havinder and his wife Manjinder Kaur, will be among 200 permanent residents receiving their Australian citizenship during Brimbank council’s Australia Day citizenship ceremony, while Swati and husband Hans will mark their first Australia Day as citizens. The couple received their citizenship in December having migrated from India to Australia for work. Havinder, who moved to Australia from northern India in 2008, says he can’t wait to celebrate the milestone.

‘‘

I will feel proud to say ‘I am an Australian’

’’

- Havinder Singh “It is truly an amazing feeling, to become a citizen of Australia this year. I will feel proud to say ‘I am an Australian’,” Havinder says. “This is a really huge milestone for us to celebrate, it is hard to even try to put into words just how great it feels. “We … are excited to celebrate our citizenship and just how much this means to us.” Havinder says he felt drawn to Australia after learning about it at school. “To me, it seemed like the best place in the world. It is a beautiful country and there are so many opportunities here. For many people, including myself, this is a complete dream come true.” he says. Havinder chose to settle in St Albans after moving to Australia and says he has never felt

Havinder Singh, Manjinder Kaur and son Amolak.

the need or want to leave. He and Manjinder married in India a few years after he first came to Australia, before she joined him in St Albans. The couple welcomed their son, Amolak, two years ago. He was born at Sunshine hospital. “I was a young man when I first moved and have really grown so much as a person throughout my time here,” Havinder says. “We have created many wonderful memories in St Albans. “There is a real sense of community here and I am very proud and happy to be part of

(Jordan Doherty)

Right: Swati and Hans Sharma.

(Supplied)

it. I had never even visited another country before moving here all those years ago, the move here was a daunting … but it has been 100 per cent worth it. “We know many people from very different backgrounds who have also chosen to make it their home here. Our next-door neighbours in St Albans emigrated to Australia, I believe in the 1950s and it is fascinating to hear their many stories about the area that I now call home, and to hear about how it has developed over time. “It makes me look forward to what else is to come here in the future for my son.”

The Sharmas feel similarly about South Morang and the wider Whittlesea local government area. The couple chose to move to Australia because their know their profession in the health industry was highly regarded here. “We have chosen Whittlesea council area for our residence and business as it is one of the fastest growing areas and has a high immigration population,” Swati says, “Whittlesea council offers various multicultural events which helps us stay connected to our culture as well.” “We are feeling very proud and happy to be citizens of this amazing country.”

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

MY PLACE Melbourne Airport chaplain Martyn Scrimshaw tells Millicent Spencer about his unique role at the airport. 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. 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

Melbourne Airport chaplain Martyn Scrimshaw (left) at work.

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

12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

(Supplied)

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.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMENT

Focus on making your life better By Christopher Carter, chief executive, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network Come on now, be honest, have you’ve broken your New Year’s Resolution already? It’s okay if you have: most people do, and that might be a good thing. It’s natural to focus on making life changes when the calendar clicks over, but sometimes the way we frame these intentions can be unrealistic, setting us up for failure. In some cases, too, resolutions that require long-term planning raise our anxiety levels – which is especially ironic if the resolution involves becoming less anxious. Setting goals for the coming year can be a very positive thing, but mental health experts tell us it’s important to focus on things that make life better rather than more challenging. Be sure to acknowledge what’s already right in your life. What things are you grateful for? Resolve to remember these often. Feeling good about yourself will make achieving long-term aims, such as quitting smoking or maintaining healthy weight, a bit easier. It’s important too to reflect only on yourself and refrain from impossible comparisons. You are probably never going to play tennis like Serena Williams or write pop songs as well as Baker Boy. Your icons aren’t your rivals. In the end it doesn’t matter if you can’t carry a tune – just resolving to sing might be all you need. If you set small goals, you’re much more likely to succeed. Cook one more meal instead of getting takeaway; try just one new healthy food; read one more book; walk one more lap. Small achievements count. It’s also important, of course, to not beat yourself up if you slip. The path to any goal is never smooth – it would be too easy, otherwise. Just because you fail once doesn’t

Focus on setting goals that make life better rather than more challenging. (iStock)

mean you’re a failure. Which raises another important point. You don’t have to reach your goals alone. One of the most useful things to decide is to ask for help when you need it. If you opt to learn a new skill, don’t be afraid to find someone who can teach you. YouTube might be full of instructional videos, but it can be a pretty soulless way to find stuff out. Human connection can make a huge difference.

And the same goes for your mental health. If you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to reach out to a support service, a therapist, a social group, friend or family member. If your resolution is to be the best you can be, that’s something vastly easier to achieve with the company and support of others. Of course, if you’re having a crisis, ring Lifeline on 13 11 14, or 000. To find non-emergency help, however, consider calling

Head to Health on 1800 595 212. A trained professional will take your call, give you advice, and connect you to the best support or service for you. CAREinMIND™ is another excellent mental health counselling service. You can reach them for a chat on 1300 096 269. Their website – careinmind.com.au – has a great blog, chock full of ideas which can help you get through 2023 with style, smiles and joy.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY

Kulinda the Cheetah enjoys an iron-rich ice block on a hot summer’s day.

Resident Hippopotamuses munch on a fruit-filled icy treat before splashing in the water.

(Pictures: Werribee Open Range Zoo)

Keeping cool at Werribee zoo As summer gets into full swing, animals of all shapes and sizes at Werribee Open Range Zoo like to keep cool and carry on. Aside from always having access to shade and hydration, zookeepers make sure all animals stay extra comfortable by offering nutritionally-dense icy treats and specially-created mud wallows. Right: Ice blocks are keeping Vervet Monkeys cool and mentally stimulated.

Asian Wild Horses gravitate towards mud wallows to keep cool and protect themselves from parasites and insects. Tuesday, 24 January, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

25 years ago

20 years ago

15 years ago

January 27, 1993

January 21, 1998

January 28, 2003

January 22, 2008

The Southern Calder Jobskills region - which includes includes Melton and Bacchus Marsh - is expected to get Federal Government funding.

Coles is coming to Bacchus Marsh with a $4million dollar store set to open later this year.

Melton, Bacchus Marsh, Caroline Springs and Diggers Rest fire brigades have teamed up to fight the bushfires in Victoria’s North-East.

The generosity of Melton traders has brightened the new year for Wanda Bojarska.

12544962-AV15-22

30 years ago

14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

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

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

St Albans senior citizens St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-1.30pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day. ■ Roma, 9338 3815

The Gap on Graham The Gap provides a place for Melton youth to hang out, socialise, play games and learn new skills. The centre holds a night for girls aged 10 to 18 years at 5 Graham Street, Melton, on Wednesday evenings. There is also a drop-in night for anyone aged 12 to 25 years old. ■ Val, 0414 769 605.

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of five-year-old Isla at Scienceworks. (Damjan Janevski)

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

Take weight off naturally Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Weight Off Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton. ■ Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739

Parkinson’s support group The Melton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the second Thursday of the month 10.30am–12.30pm at Kurunjang Community Centre, 33-35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. New members and carers welcome. ■ Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Bridge Club The Melton Bridge Club has recommenced weekly social Bridge sessions at the Melton Library on Fridays from 10am-noon. Come along to play an exciting, social card game and have loads of fun. Bridge offers the suspense of poker, the cerebral qualities of chess and the excitement of athletic sports, all in a relaxed and social setting. If you like playing cards this is for you. ■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

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

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

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

■ 0419

563 016

Melton Combined Probus Club

Melton Trauma Teddies

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

Melton Trauma Teddies are seeking volunteers to assist with knitting, stuffing, or stitching teddy-bears that go to children in their time of need. ■ Jean 0412 931 498

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park

Budgerigar Society

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

The Melton and District Budgerigar Society is seeking members. They breed and show exhibition budgerigars. They meet locally and attend shows that are held all over the state. ■ Carmel 0400966738

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

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

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

U3A Melton U3A Melton offers among its activities a book group, Australian history and a gentle exercise class for those 55 and over who are retired or semi-retired who wish to stay mentally and physically active.

■ meltonrotary@gmail.com

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

Yoga Course Develop your yoga practice in Melton South Community Centre’s 10-week course beginning on Wednesday, February 1. Available in multiple timeslots (10.30am, 11.30am, 6pm) and suitable for all adults and levels of fitness, this course is a perfect opportunity to de-stress for the year ahead. Cost:$105 or $100 concession. ■ 9747 8576

First Aid Course First Aid courses return to Melton South Community Centre on Saturday, February 4. Suitable for anyone wanting to obtain or renew their certificate. Available one-day courses include Perform CPR (HLTAID009), Provide First Aid (HLTAID011) and Provide First Aid in an Education & Care Setting (HLTAID012). ■ 9747 8576

Tuesday, 24 January, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15

PUZZLES

hard

3 2 6 1 8 8

10 11 12 13

ACTOR ADORE ALIEN ALIGN APART ATONE AVAIL AWARE BLUSH CASTE CRAVE DEBTS DEMON DRYER EATER EBONY EDGES EPOCH HANDS ISLES PATTY

Today’s Aim: 13 words: Good 19 words: Very good

3 5 2 6 7 8 9 1 4

6 1 8 7 2 3 5 9 4

7 5 3 4 1 9 6 8 2

2 4 9 8 6 5 1 7 3

1 9 4 5 8 6 3 2 7

4 LETTERS ACTS ANTS ATOM COOS DENS DISK HATS HERE PATS SASH SHES WADS WELD WOOS

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

A R O T E T A S X E R T E R G E

Z E S

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

5 8 6 3 4 7 2 1 9

4 3 1 2 9 8 7 6 5

9 2 7 6 5 1 4 3 8

6 2 7 9 8 4 5 1 3

9 4 3 1 5 2 8 7 6

1 7 9 2 6 8 4 3 5

5 6 2 4 3 1 7 8 9

No. 117

T A T

3 6 2 9 7 4 8 5 1

R O S

6 4 9 3 2 1 7 5 8

8 1 7 5 9 4 6 2 3

2 3 8 7 1 9 4 6 5

9 6 1 4 8 5 2 3 7

5 7 4 2 6 3 1 8 9

1 8 3 9 4 6 5 7 2

4 2 6 8 5 7 3 9 1

7 9 5 1 3 2 8 4 6

3 8 4 7 9 5 2 6 1

2 1 6 8 4 9 3 5 7

7 9 8 5 1 3 6 4 2

4 3 5 6 2 7 1 9 8

16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

TRAIN TRAMP TREES TREND TYRES WARNS YELLS

7 LETTERS FEATHER LEOPARD NIMBLER RINSING TARTARS TEENAGE

6 LETTERS RESETS RETARD SHRINE STRINE

8 LETTERS DEPLORES OVERSEES SALLOWER STARTLED

27-01-23

RABBI RANGE REGAL RESET ROTOR SABRE SARIS SEEPS SLEEK SLOTH SMART SNEER SNOUT SORTS TEMPO TENET THOSE TINGE TIRES TONAL TONNE

anent, ante, cant, canteen, cement, cent, eaten, enact, ENACTMENT, mate, matt, matte, meant, meat, meet, mete, neat, neaten, tact, tame, team, teat, teem, tenant, tenet, tent

8 7 5 1 3 2 9 4 6

8 5 1 3 7 6 9 2 4

5 LETTERS ABATE

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

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

$: $ 5 (

L U P I WM J G T O C B Q

medium

hard

9-LETTER WORD

easy

2 3 6

H Y

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

7 8 6 5 1 7 2

5x5

2 5

QUICK QUIZ

From what cereal is pumpernickel made?

Who did Monica Bellucci (pictured) play in The Passion of the Christ?

What comic strip did Jim Davis work on before Garfield?

The endocrine system is a system of what in the human body?

What is the term for a baby ferret?

What colour is the element cadmium?

The Nobel Prize was established in 1901 in which country?

Who released the 2004 single Coin-Operated Boy?

And to what musical genre is it said to belong?

10 In computer data storage, if you are striping, are your disks in RAID 0 or RAID 1?

ANSWERS: 1. Rye 2. Mary Magdalene 3. Gnorm Gnat 4. Glands 5. Kit 6. Bluish-white 7. Sweden 8. The Dresden Dolls 9. Dark cabaret 10. RAID 0

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Castle ba in busine ck ss

Kryal Castl e chief

executive Bart

Hamilton. (Damj

an Janevs

Highway

ki) 30839

By Liam

6_05

McNally

upgrade

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pledge

Labor has Melton coun business casepledged $10 milli on federal gove cil has been callin if it wins to upgrade the Wes dollars for a Our Road rnments to help g on state and Novembe the state election tern Highway s’ camp critical need fund in its r 26. State Tran aign. ” on Satur ‘Fix Last week In October for Melton commute day, Jacin sport Infra , the the Liber ta Allan structure announce state al Party rs. said a Minister million to upgrade governme d major arter re-elected commitm it would match Labor party part of a nt will the Western pledged $700 ial ent from and $1.5 billio Labo “More than road to standard. deliver improved federal Laboa $10 million in the year. n west road Highway, as safer road r elected. 5000 peop traffic Melton. “We Fix Our r made earli s package, The busin Melt ’re doing flow for families s er bette if our com Roads petition le have signed the what matt r road in pleas on mayor Lara and I’d like munity for along the ess case would explo ers, delivering Carli ed with Labo to safer,” she s to get Victorians stretch of re the r’s election said council is important to them showing all parti thank hom Melton throu that said. need Western e sooner and there s es what com behind the . Ther High Melt case will is more work need mitment, but The Westerngh to Caroline Sprin way from High on MP Steve McG campaign e’s still time to ’s provide a everyone ed. “A busin gs. get way was Highway hie and I’d said the Wes upgrade and to add their clear ess is one of the a “crit encourag voice “We look tern future-pro direction on how e six roads candidate for Koro ical road link” forward to . of this high to the . Labor of Australia’s faste said the busin roit Luba State and working way in one st growing “While Grig ess case woul closely Fede election d help addrorovitch not deliv we acknowledge areas,” she said. to ensure ral governments after with ess “the this er Melton get key for, it is an the critical upgrades funding will the attention roads in the City the important of they deser first step we’re asking ■ ve.” in bringing More Fix Our Road this s coverage : Page 5

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Tuesday, 24 January, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

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networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services V Trades

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18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

SPORTS QUIZ 1. The flags of which two countries were banned from being displayed at the 2023 Australian Open? 2. Before being recently rehired as Wallabies coach, Eddie Jones last coached the team in what year? 3. Women’s world number one tennis player Iga Swiatek is from which country?

4. The Australian cricket team recently cancelled a One Day International series against which country?

15. In American football, is a blitz a defensive or offensive tactic? 16. Which NBA player is close to meeting Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time NBA points record?

5. The Mighty Roos represent Australia in which sport?

17. What is the name of the Melbourne runner who smashed the female world record of consecutive marathons, running 150 in a row?

6. Actor Frankie Muniz has a career in which sport? 7. Josh Giddey plays for which NBA team? 8. Which Australian Grand Slam champion recently announced her retirement?

18. What was controversial about shots awarded as sixes in the January 14 match between the Melbourne Renegades and Melbourne Stars?

9. What two sports were added to the Winter Olympic Games in 1998?

19. When was the last time the Australian men’s cricket team won a series against India?

10. AFL star Jaeger O’Meara will play for which team in 2023? 11. What was baseball Hall of Famer Babe Ruth’s real name?

20. While playing golf, what is the maximum amount of clubs allowed in a player’s bag?

12. And what was the first team he played for?

21. Which Serbian tennis professional won the 2023 Adelaide International 1 men’s singles title?

13. Why did Nick Kyrgios pull out of the 2023 Australian Open?

Iga Świątek

28. Babar Azam, allegedly caught messaging a teammate’s girlfriend, captains which nation’s cricket team?

24. How many runs did Australian spin bowler Ashton Agar score in his debut Test innings?

29. What year were Johnathan Thurston and Jarryd Hayne joint winners of the NRL’s Dally M Medal?

25. Which South Korean tennis professional won the 2023 Adelaide International 2 men’s singles title? 26. Which Swiss tennis professional won the 2023 Adelaide International 2 women’s singles title?

30. By what nickname is Australia’s national gridiron (American football) team known?

27. Rocky the Mountain Lion is the costumed mascot of which NBA team?

Rainbow Club

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1. The scope of the proposal consists of: r The installation of nine (9) new 4G/5G Optus & Vodaphone 4G/5G panel antennas on the existing monopole on a new headframe below the existing Telstra headframe r Installation of Remote Radio Units (RRU’s) r The installation of ancillary equipment such as cable trays, feeders, cabling and other associated equipment necessary for the proper function of the facility 2. Optus and Vodafone regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the description above. 3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Ventia. Name: David Hodgkinson, Town Planner Phone: 0437015282 Email: community.consultation@ventia.com Web: www.rfnsa.com.au/30240011 Address: Ventia Pty Ltd, 9/137-145 Rooks Road, Nunawading, VIC, 3131 Submission due by COB on 8th February 2023

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Positions Vacant

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Excavator Operator Loader Operator and Labourer required.

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

Duties include greasing, maintenance and adhoc. Weighbridge Operator Admin and adhoc duties, full time position, computer knowledge is essential. Saturdays required.

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Professional

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MAZDA 2012 BT50, tray, 2600x180, ladder racks, tow bar and nudge bar, steps, one with the lot, 2.2 turbo diesel, 6 speed, 6 months reg, RWC, will not fault, 265.000kms, $13,000 ono, IUZ 2TN, Phone 0425 775 955

Positions Vacant

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12423634-SN31-19

General Notices V

22. Which Belarusian tennis professional won the 2023 Adelaide International 1 women’s singles title?

14. What was the finishing move of WWE wrestler The Undertaker?

23. A bronze statue of Australian Cricket Hall of Fame member Belinda Clark resides at which sports stadium?

1. Russia and Belarus 2. 2005 3. Poland 4. Afghanistan 5. Ice Hockey 6. Motor racing 7. Oklahoma City Thunder 8. Sam Stosur 9. Snowboarding and curling 10. Fremantle 11. George Herman Ruth 12. Boston Red Sox 13. Knee injury 14. Tombstone Piledriver 15. Defensive 16. LeBron James 17. Erchana Murray-Bartlet 18. They hit the roof 19. 2004 20. 14 21. Novak Djokovic 22. Aryna Sabalenka 23. Sydney Cricket Ground 24. 98 25. Kwon Soon-woo 26. Belinda Bencic 27. Denver Nuggets 28. Pakistan 29. 2014 30. Australian Outback

2701

Nick Kyrgios

CALL 1300 666 808 Tuesday, 24 January, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 19

MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU Hyundai Palisade stands out from the SUV crowd. (Pictures: Supplied)

Hyundai Palisade is big and bold By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring Palisade is the largest model in Hyundai’s SUV range. At a smidgen under five metres, it’s around the same size and price as competitors such as Toyota Kluger and Mazda CX-9. Launched in late 2020 it was given an upgrade in May 2022 with updated exterior and interior design elements, improved safety and tech features. Palisade comes in two equipment levels, Elite and Highlander, each with the choice of 3.8-litre petrol FWD or 2.2-litre diesel AWD. Prices range from $65,900 for the Elite petrol 2WD to $79,900 for our test vehicle, the Highlander diesel AWD.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Palisade Elite 3.8-litre petrol 2WD: $65,900 Palisade Highlander 3.8-litre petrol 2WD: $75,900

Styling Not only is Palisade a large vehicle but it has styling that accentuates its bulk, starting from the front with a huge version of the parametric grille that’s being progressively rolled out across the Hyundai range. The grille is flanked by vertically stacked triple LED headlights, together with similarly shaped taillights, that emphasise the height of the Palisade. The Highlander variant that we tested came with exclusive design touches, including a satin chrome finish for the grille with matching badge and skid plate finishes. There are hidden-type turn signals, body-coloured cladding and exclusive 20-inch wheels with a 15-spoke turbine design.

Engines / transmissions The 3.8-litre petrol V6 generates 217 KW of power at 6000 rpm and 5200 NM of torque with standard unleaded fuel. The 2.2-litre CRDI diesel has less power (147 kW at 3800 rpm) but extra torque (440 NM between 1750 and 2750 revs). Both have a recently updated eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission. The diesel AWD uses an active on-demand HTRAC system.

Interior Inside, Palisade comes with a full-width front air vent and a great-looking and feeling

Palisade Elite 2.2-litre diesel AWD: $69,900 Palisade Highlander 2.2-litre diesel AWD: $79,900 Decked out with a 12.3-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system.

four-spoke steering wheel capped off in Highlander with a two-tone finish. A floating centre console angles up to merge with the dashboard, with a large space below for out-of-sight storage as well as a USB-C and 12V sockets. There’s plenty of additional storage space at the rear of the centre console with two adjustable drink holders and another pair of USB and 12V jacks. Palisade comes with two seating options, the more conventional 3-3-2 eight-seat family-focused arrangement or an executive 3-2-2 seven-seater with a pair of individual captain chairs in the middle row.

Safety All variants come with seven airbags including one between the front seats, full-length curtain ‘bags, and lap-sash safety belts for all occupants rather than the normal lap-only belt in the centre-rear spot. Other advanced safety features come with the Hyundai SmartSense system and include Blind Spot View and Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Forward and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist,

20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

Lane Following and Lane Keeping Assist, and Safe Exit Assist.

Driving Initially, the large dimensions can be a bit intimidating when you first get into the Palisade but the various assistance features together with its high driving position and excellent visibility help to quickly overcome these concerns. Also, with its comparatively tight turning circle of 11.8 metres it can handle the average shopping centre with room to spare although the backside tends to jut out. While other eight-seat SUVs are based on a heavy-duty four-wheel-drive ’ladder frame’ chassis, the Hyundai Palisade is built like a car. That means its centre of gravity is lower and steering and suspension should be more like the average passenger vehicle. Travelling in stop-start city low-speed conditions, this is the case. Out on the motorway the Palisade cruises smoothly and quietly with little clue that it is powered by a diesel. Most of our time was spent with either one or two occupants on board but

SPECIFICATIONS Hyundai Palisade Highlander 2.2-litre diesel AWD

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

it felt that it would have no trouble coping with the maximum eight people. The steering is well-weighted and gives good feedback. Combined cycle fuel consumption is listed at 10.7 litres per 100 kilometres with the petrol engine and 7.3 L/100km from the diesel. We averaged 8.7 L/100km during our test.

Summing up Hyundai Palisade is an impressive vehicle that combines the practicality of an SUV while coming close to being car-like in the way it drives. It’s reasonably priced and comes with plenty of safety and tech equipment. Palisade comes with Hyundai’s standard five-year, unlimited warranty. Bluelink is also free for the same five-year period but incurs a charge from then onwards.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Bacchus Marsh finding form after a slow start A few tweaks have worked well for Bacchus Marsh as it starts to make its mark in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup. After a slow start to the season, the Bulls have won their last four games and are sitting third on the ladder. Bulls coach Paul Baker said they were happy how things were playing out. “It’s been pretty good,” he said. “We had a slow start and with the weather everyone was a bit flat as we weren’t playing every week. “We had a really bad game our first game and it kicked us into gear. “We made a few changes and the team is coming together well and we’re getting contributions across the board.” The changes have worked with the Bulls finding some form with the bat and the ball. On Saturday, it was with the bat the Bulls showed what they could do against Wallan. The Bulls made 8-266 from their 80 overs. Brenton Payne made his second century for the season and his first in the McIntyre Cup.

“Brenton came back to us to play full time last year,” Baker said. “He was a fast bowler who could bat a bit. “He can’t bowl first any more because of his bat, so he’s now a batter and bowls spin. He’s made two 100s and he’s batted beautifully. “He’s a good all rounder sportsperson.” Tom Dickinson also had a day out, finishing 84 not out, with Baker saying he batted beautifully. The runs come as the batting group starts to find some form. Skipper James Lidgett has been a key, with two 100s this season. Baker said when Lidgett bats well it lifts his teammates “James, we missed him last year as he was out with an achilles injury,” he said. “James’ batting sets the tone for others around him. “He’s been a great inclusion.” Baker said they were still a little unsure how scores stack up in two-day cricket having not played much on that format in recent years. He said they were happy with the score and they would be able to build on that. After the Magpies match, the Bulls face

three of the big sides, Romsey, Gisborne and Diggers Rest Bulla. Baker said they would have a fair indication of where they sit after those matches. In other matches, Diggers Rest Bulla made 353 against the Sunbury Kangaroos with Ras Batepola making 103. Woodend made 235 against Sunbury United with Xavier Tadd making 110. United is 1-15 in reply. Rupertswood made 9-285 against East Sunbury, while Gisborne is 3-33 in reply to Romsey’s 134. Tara Murray

Brenton Payne (Bacchus Marsh Facebook)

Sports shorts Bowls Bacchus Marsh lost a thriller against Parkdale in Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 1, section 4 on Saturday. The teams shared the rinks, but Parkdale snuck home, claiming the win 77 (14)-75 (4). Lee Greening was the only winning skip for Bacchus Marsh, with two other rinks having ties. Bacchus Marsh sits seventh. In division 2, section 2, Melton beat Glenroy, 99 (18)-50 (0). Melton sits 22 points clear on top of the ladder.

GDCA Rupertswood is on track for an outright victory against the Sunbury Kangaroos in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield. The Kangaroos were bowled out for just 30, with Rupo quickly moving to 1-128 before declaring. The Kangaroos are in trouble in their second innings, finishing the day at 5-18. In other matches, Hanging Rock made 6-283 against Blackwood, Wallan made 310 against St Anthonys and Diggers Rest Bulla made 9-263.

Soccer Melton Centrals’ Abhishek Aggarwal. (Jacob Pattison)316222_02

Centrals on winning run By Tara Murray Melton Centrals’ season is well and truly back on track in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 5. After a tough start in their return to division 5, Centrals have won their last four matches to be the in-form team in the competition and now sitting a game outside the top four. Coach Kieran Bensley said things had started to click. “We’re getting good games by guys and the season is now looking alright,” he said. “We’re had a few guys hitting runs and getting a few partnerships and then other guys getting wickets. “The fielding has been good and we’re just sort of clicking. We’ve had a pretty consistent team as well.” Bensley said it took some time to get used to playing at this level again, but things had improved since the start of the season. The addition of two Sri Lankan imports this season had also helped the team. Centrals managed to get the points against

Wyndhamvale on Saturday in a low-scoring affair. The first of the two-day matches, the match ended up being a one-dayer due to some issues with Centrals’ home ground. Bensley said while they were looking forward to playing two-day cricket, the two sides weren’t overly disappointed with day one played in hot conditions. After being sent in, Centrals were bowled out for just 89 in the 23rd over. Bensley said it was a disappointing innings. “From our end, a lot of our guys got themselves out, getting caught or being bowled going for silly shots,” he said. “Both teams bowled well and there was a little bit in the pitch, but it wasn’t overly one-sided.” Hashan Chamara top scored with 19. Centrals’ bowlers stepped up to get their side across the line, bowling Wyndhamvale out for 66. Warren Haffenden took four wickets for Centrals. Bensley said finals was the aim for the side

after the last few rounds. “We need to get back to putting those runs on the board and get back to what we’ve been doing the last few games,” he said. “We want to be in the top four and in the place to play finals. It’s been a couple of years since we have and it’s good to be back in the picture.” Another side keen to play finals in division 5 is the Melton South Royals, who had a big win against Seabrook on Saturday. Defending 8-331, the Royals bowled Seabrook out for 191. Eager to try for an outright win, the Royals sent Seabrook back in. Seabrook was 5-68 when the game was called. The Royals sit in third position with seven wins. Burnside Springs suffered a loss to Jacana. Chasing the Jaguars 181, Burnside was bowled out for 171. Burnside sits in ninth spot with three wins. In division 1, ladder leaders Sydenham-Hillside beat Altona North, while in division 3, Caroline Springs beat Pascoe Vale Hadfield.

Melton Phoenix has announced its first signings for this year’s FV state league 5 west season as the club returned to pre-season training. Cameron Stewart has re-signed for this year along with Alex Dimond, who won the league’s best and fairest last season. The Phoenix is hoping to go one better this year, having fell just short of the championship and promotion this year.

VTCA The finalists for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition have been finalised. The final pool matches were played last week, with the top team in each of the 16 pool groups going through to the next round. Sydenham-Hillside is joined in the next round by Gellibrand, PEGS, West Coburg, Sunbury, Jacana, Yarraville Club, Sunshine, the Druids, Werribee Centrals, Point Cook, Maribyrnong Park St Marys, Sanctuary Lakes, Deer Park and St Francis de Sales. FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Tuesday, 24 January, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 21

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Lions in good form after winning four in a row Melton’s focus remains on playing one week at a time, not finals, despite a good recent run of form in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west. With victory against Endeavour Hills on Saturday, the Lions have now won their last four games and sit just a game outside the top six. Having gone without a win last season, Lions coach Mitch Stephens said they weren’t getting ahead of themselves. “We have spoken about the confidence that the group has now,” he said. “We’ve had some really good training sessions post-Christmas and that’s adding to the confidence. “We have had conversations about finals, but it’s about taking it one week at a time. We play three teams in the top six in the last four rounds, so it’s just one week at a time.” On Saturday, the Lions bowlers got the job done against Endeavour Hills.

Having put 7-282 on the back of 154 from Ben MacRae, the Lions were able to restrict Endeavour Hills to 9-194. Joel Mitchener took 3-33, while Brad Jones took 2-30 for the Lions. Stephens said it was a pretty even performance across the board with the bowlers, while their fielders backed them up, with a couple of run outs as well. The win takes the Lions to five wins for the season, while they also won both their T20 matches. Stephens said they need to just keep on doing what they’ve been doing. “We’re coming off a few wins and there’s lots of confidence to play against anyone,” he said. “JJ [Hibbert] and Benny [MacRae] have been giving us a good platform and the bowling group is backing them up.” In good signs for the Lions, their other sides are getting some good results as well.

The fourth XI put on 45 for the final wicket to get victory on Saturday and now sit on top of the ladder. The third XI sits in second place. Stephens said a lot of hard work had been done the last couple of years. “Over the last couple of years, Melton may have been an easy target, but something has changed,” he said. “It’s a credit to the leaders who have put their hands up in the lower grades, it’s great to have that experience.” The Lions next generation has also been on show in the J.G Craig Shield. The Lions will play off against Kew in the quarter finals on Tuesday. Stephens said Mitchener had done a lot of work with that group and they would join in senior training in the next couple of weeks. Tara Murray Brad Jones.

(Shawn Smits)

Woodsmen, Cats through

Rockey Hoey is bowled.

(Jacob Pattison) 316219_08

Bad day out for Darley By Tara Murray Darley got a reality check in the Ballarat Cricket Association on Saturday. The ladder leaders were comprehensively beaten by Mt Clear in their most disappointing loss of the season. The Lions were bowled out for just 105 in the 31st over, with Mt Clear making the runs just one wicket down. Mt Clear finished 1-107 in the 22nd over. Lions coach Brian Wheelahan said there was no excuse for that sort of performance. “It was disappointing and we were outplayed by Mt Clear,” he said. “We were way off and full credit to Mt Clear. “We need to park that and move on. You only have to be a little bit off in this competition and you get beaten. “Yesterday wasn’t up to a good enough standard.” Wheelahan said they addressed the performance straight after the game and they all took responsibility for not being switched on like they should have been.

He said while there was a little bit in the wicket, their performance wasn’t up to standard. Most of the team got starts, but Hasitha Wickramasinghe’s 27 was the highest score. “Our top four or five are crucial to us and they got those guys out cheaply,” he said. “There was some poor batting in the lower and middle order and to not bat out the 50 overs was super disappointing. “Thankfully we’ve set ourselves up enough that we should still hopefully play finals cricket.” The Lions sit in the top two after 11 rounds with seven wins and two draws. Wheelahan said he would have taken that at the start of the season. He said they still have work to do. “Next week we’re back to two-day cricket and we have to work hard during the week to ensure we bat our 80 overs,” he said. “We play Napoleons-Sebastopol this week, which is third, so it’s like a top of the table clash. We have to make sure we are switched on.”

22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 January, 2023

Wheelahan said returning to two-day cricket, which will be played in finals, will be good for the side. He said with an experienced line up, many preferred two-day cricket having played a lot of it in the past. Wheelahan said he could have some tough selection decisions to make in the next few weeks with their second XI starting to find form. He said the younger kids in the second XI were starting to find their feet at that level. “A lack of experience cost us a couple of games before Christmas,” he said. “There’s a couple that probably could play in the first XI. It’s great that we have that depth and blokes have to play well to play a game and retain their spot.” Meanwhile, the Lions women’s side will be back in action on Sunday in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association women’s competition. The Lions sit in third spot after six rounds, with this week the first round of competition since before Christmas.

Spotswood and Hoppers Crossing are through to the next round of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association T20 competition, but Melton was the unlucky team to miss out. The three teams finished the first two rounds undefeated, along with six other teams. With just eight teams progressing through to the next round, ninth-placed Melton missed out on percentage. The second round of the competition got underway on Tuesday night, with some matches affected by heavy rain. Plenty Valley and Kew’s match was declared a tie and the points shared, while some other matches were also not completed, but results were still awarded. Spotswood made it two from two against Altona. The Woodsmen made 5-157 from their overs with Jarrod Martignago top scoring with 63 off 43 balls. It was all single wicket takers for Altona. The A’s started their innings well and at 2-93 were looking on track. But the wickets started to fall leaving the A’s short, finishing 8-147. James Grubb finished with 41 off 28 balls. Muhammad Arslan Khan took four weeks for the Woodsmen. Hoppers Crossing won through to the next round by beating Yarraville. The Cats made 7-166 from their overs with Brett Smith top scoring with 66. The Eagles were 2-34 off 8.4 overs when the rain hit. Melton continued its good form, beating Werribee. The Tigers made 8-125 from their overs with Luke Reid top scored with 54. Stephen Wiig took two wickets for the Lions. The Lions hit the winning runs with five balls remaining, finishing 6-126. Anthony Hibbert top scored with 56 not out at the top of the order. In other matches, Williamstown opened its T20 account with a win against Taylors Lakes. The Lions made 7-94 from their overs, with Sean Sturrock taking 2-12 for the Seagulls. The Seagulls were 2-75 off 10.4 overs when the game was called off early, well above the required rate. The next round is due to be played on January 24.

United part ways with Theoharous and Markovic Western United has parted ways with Christian Theoharous and Dalibor Markovic, midway through the A-League Men’s season. The club announced on Tuesday that it has reached a mutual agreement with Theoharous to terminate his contract. Central Coast Mariners announced later that day that Theoharous had signed with them for the rest of the season. The winger had failed to play a game this season with United. Having signed a two-year scholarship contract in November 2021 in his return from playing over in Europe, Theoharous made four appearances in his first A-League season with United registering an assist against Wellington Phoenix in January. He was part of the club’s first ever championship-winning team. The winger also played a major role in Western United’s promotion campaign in National Premier League 3 last year. Theoharous played nine games in the regular season, scoring one goal, and starred in the promotion play-off with a goal and two assists.

The club in its announcement thanked Theoharous for his time at the club and wished him every success with the next steps of his career. Theoharous made his debut in the A-League as an 18-year-old with Melbourne Victory. He played a significant part in Victory’s 2017-18 championship and he also played six games in the Asian Champions League. The club also announced it had released Markovic by mutual consent last week. Markovic signed for United in March 2021 having impressed against the Green and Black while playing for Melbourne Victory a month earlier. The left-back made his debut for the Club in a 2-0 win over Newcastle Jets soon after joining but picked up a foot injury in the game, returning in the final round of the 2020/21 season against Central Coast Mariners. Last season, Markovic played a part in United’s first ever championship-winning squad. He played three A-League games for the club.

The defender was also a key player in the NPL which earned promotion to NPL 2. Markovic played 10 matches and scored two goals in the regular season before featuring prominently in the promotion play-off win over Goulburn Valley Suns. Meanwhile, United had a happy trip away to Tasmania with both their women’s and men’s A-League sides coming away with wins on Saturday. The women’s side, which was coming off its first loss of the season, scored either side of half time to beat Brisbane Roar. The men’s side then followed it up with a 1-0 win against Sydney FC, with Alessandro Diamanti producing some match after coming off the bench. Tara Murray

Christian Theoharous

(Supplied)

Stars turn out for charity

The North Western Titans are on the up.

(Days in the Sun Photography)

Titans reach their goals By Tara Murray After a slow start to the Baseball Victoria summer league division 2 men’s season, the North Western Titans are now feeling at home. After being promoted in the off-season, the Titans were thrown a challenge right from the start. Now having found their feet and with a couple of wins on the board, the Titans are feeling confident at this level. Coach Andrew Fielden said they were exceeding the expectations that they had set pre-season. “It’s a massive jump going from division 3 to division 2,” he said. “A lot of the club’s have American pitchers which is something we’ve had to get used to. “There’s been a massive improvement from the first seven games. All the goals we set at the start of the season stat wise are going really good.” Fielden said getting a couple of wins on the board had been a massive confidence booster

for the side. In the last match before Christmas, they beat Bonbeach 10-3, taking the two teams to the same amount of wins. “The last seven weeks before Christmas we were going in the right direction in the ones,” he said. “It was important to win those games, after being close to winning games earlier on. “Now we have the momentum, hopefully we can have a lot more wins hopefully in this half of the season.” The Titans sit bottom of the table, but not much separates them and Bonbeach, which sits above them. Fielden said the aim was to ensure they remain in division 2 next season. “We want to consolidate our spot in division 2 and go into division one in years to come,” he said. Fielden said the men’s division 2 side wasn’t the only one to take massive steps this season. All three of their other men’s sides have gone up grades this season. “We’ve got a lot of juniors coming through

the second side,” he said. “We’re developing the younger players. “It’s not so much about focusing on wins and losses. We’re moving in the right direction. “The thirds and fourths have been a massive difference as well.” The club’s top women’s side which was promoted to division 2 this season sits in ninth spot, while their division 3 women’s side sits in seventh. Fielden said both sides were enjoying the challenge, with plenty of junior players getting opportunities. “Everything is going really well for the club,” he said. “It’s been really positive and we’re headed in the right direction and building on what we’ve been doing in the next few years.” The Titans men were set to face Fitzroy on Sunday in the first match after the Christmas break. Scores were not available at the time of deadline. The women’s division 3 west side lost to Fitzroy on Saturday, 17-12.

Some of the Gisborne and District Cricket Association’s best players will be in action this Wednesday night to support Malmsbury Cricket Club. The GDCA is putting on a charity night to support Malmsbury which was heavily impacted by flooding in October. Club secretary Matthew Cox previously told Star Weekly they had lost about $30,000 worth of equipment and other things around the club. Wednesday’s charity match involves players from all 10 of the McIntyre Cup sides, with at least two players from each team. Players will bat for two overs and the pair that has the highest total of runs at the end wins. Gisborne has five players taking part in the match, while Romsey, East Sunbury, Rupertswood and Sunbury United have four players. Mick Allen, Jarryd and Riley Vernon, Samuel Mackay and Matthew Barake are representing Gisborne and Chris Burkett, Nathan Hoy, Jamie Taylor and Ben Way are representing Romsey. For Rupertswood, Nathan Crotty, Kyle Corcoran, Nathan Shoesmith, Jarryd Swallow are pulling on the pads, while Steven Fogarty, Rajitha Mendis, Senura Perera and Liam Sherlock are taking part for Sunbury United. Lachie Wilkins, Nathan Dent, Matthew Jackson and Liam Williams will represent East Sunbury, while cross town rivals the Sunbury Kangaroos are represented by Michael Fox, Robert Walker and Corey Woolley. Connor Ascough and Nick Strangio will take part for Bacchus Marsh, Mulkapuge Lakshan and Indika Massalage for Diggers Rest Bulla, Harry Lawson and Hamish McDonald for Woodend and Matthew Clayton and Spencer Whittingham for Wallan. The bar and BBQ start at 6.30pm at Gardiner Reserve, Gisborne, with the action kicking off at 7pm. Entry is by gold coin donation.

Tuesday, 24 January, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

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