Star Weekly - Northern - 31st January 2023 by Star Weekly

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31 JANUARY, 2023

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A carnival of colour

Isha, 13, Thomas Di Palma and Hithanjanee Yatawara will be joining in the celebrations.

(Damjan Janevski) 315468_02

The Whittlesea Colour Carnival is back for its seventh year offering fun, culture, and colour on Saturday, February 26. The carnival will mark the Hindu festival of Holi, an ancient celebration signifying good triumphing over evil. Organiser Nishtha Goel said the carnival brings people in the north together to celebrate Indian culture. “[The festival] breaks cultural barriers by bringing people together to have fun,“ she said. “We should be prompting Indian culture [and] the multicultural community of Whittlesea should be able to participate. “By getting smaller groups to come out of their shells to share their traditions, festivities, and culture with others will increase respect in the community by promoting and educating others.“ Ms Goel encourages everyone to join in the festivities at the Whittlesea Council grounds in Ferres Blvd between 12pm and 9pm. Entry is free but booking is essential. “The carnival invites people to forget their busy schedules, get colourful and have fun with their community.”

‘Humbled’ by recognition By Millicent Spencer Mernda local Brett Drummond has been awarded an Ambulance Service Medal to mark his significant contribution as a paramedic over the last two decades. Mr Drummond commenced his service with Ambulance Victoria in 2003 and has since gone on to serve a number of roles both on the frontline and in management. He played a leading role in implementing landmark changes in response to Ambulance Victoria’s review into the Thunderstorm Asthma event of 2016. Mr Drummond said he was “humbled” to have received the award. “It’s not the sort of thing you expect or ask

for when you do your job,” he said. “I have always worked in areas that have been about working with the community and looking after the community. “Being a paramedic is about meeting people and helping them in a time of need.” Before joining Ambulance Victoria Mr Drummond volunteered with the Broadmeadows SES, so his connection to the local area goes back decades. “I grew up in Thomastown, lived in Mill Park, and then moved to Mernda,” he said. “I went and joined the local SES in 1995. I did that for 10 years and ended up running the local Broadmeadows unit so that has kept me tied to the area. “I’ve always tried to try to stay engaged in the

community from a personal perspective as it’s really important for people to take a bit of pride in the community they live in.” Mr Drummond said the variety of work he gets to do as a paramedic has kept in the job all these years. “It’s always exciting and it’s always different it’s a very rewarding job,” he said. Mr Drummond now works as the manager of consequence and planning in Ambulance Victoria’s Emergency Management Unit. In this role he has worked across a number of events including the Gipplsand fires, thunderstorm asthma event, and COVID-19. “The last couple of years have been challenging,” he said. “In my role I have to think about how we

prepare for and respond to major emergencies [so] COVID definitely impacted our work quite significantly [as] demands are quite high. “It’s fatiguing and stressful but I try to step away and remind myself I am doing the best I can… although finding the time to look after yourself is hard when you are trying to look after other people.” Mr Drummond said he is proud of the review report he co-authored into Ambulance Victoria’s Thunderstorm Asthma Emergency Response Plan. “It’s a significant piece of work [we’ve] done,” he said. “It’s a new plan with really good outcomes with patients, and really that’s what it is all about.”

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Ire high in Hume and Whittlesea By Millicent Spencer Hume and Whittlesea have been named by the Victorian Ombudsman as the second and fourth most complained about councils respectively. The Ombudsman’s 2021-22 report reveals Hume received 155 complaints and Whittlesea received 119 complaints in the last financial year. Thirty-three complaints were made about Hume council’s handling of complaints, while 24 related to fines, 18 were about enforcement action and 16 were for financial reasons. Thirty-eight of the complaints about Whittlesea council were about fines, 19

related to complaints handling, 16 were about correspondence and communications and 14 related to council’s decision making. Hume mayor Joseph Haweil said the report from the Ombudsman highlights the work and improvements his council needs to make. “We very much welcome the process by which people follow if they feel council hasn’t responded in a way they would like,” he said. “A lot [of complaints] were about complaint handling processes … for me a take out is that I am going to go back to council management to [discuss] optimising our services. “We will learn from it and do better.” Broadmeadows Progress Association’s Sonja Rutherford said the Hume’s position as

the second most complained about council is bittersweet. “This shows that people in Hume are going to take up our democratic right to raise our opinion,” she said. “We’re very much aware of changes of policy and actions that occur in our area [and] shows you there are a lot of people that are feeling connected to the area. “However, it also shows people don’t know by what criteria [council] are arriving at these decisions.” Ms Rutherford said after reporting several issues in the past to council she believes there is a disconnect in the complaints process. “There can be better processes for addressing complaints,” she said. Whittlesea chair

administrator Lydia Wilson said the number of complaints relative to population size of the municipality is relatively low. “We take any complaint very seriously and regard it as an opportunity to continually improve our practices and procedures,” she said. “The highest volume of issues in Whittlesea were in relation to finesinfringements’, which requires customers to formally appeal to council in writing for the matter to be considered. “Council has introduced an easy-to-use online appeals portal as part of our comprehensive appeals process. Complainants who don’t wish to put their appeal in writing are referred to the Ombudsman.”

Price drop in Thomastown

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

Baby, what a popular list of names 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 551 babies named Oliver in the last year, and 410 named Charlotte. The name Oliver has cemented its place as number one, continuing it’s nine-year streak while Charlotte continues it’s shorter three-year streak.

Mernda mother 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 it’s 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. A full list of the 100 most popular names can be found on the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages’ website: https://www.bdm.vic. gov.au/births/naming-your-child/popularvictorian-baby-names/popular-baby-namesin-victoria-2021

The median house price in Thomastown dropped 11 per cent in the last quarter of 2022 and $121,000 in the 12 months to December, new figures reveal. According to the latest Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) data, Thomastown median house prices dropped by $81,000 in between October and December 2022, with the medium house price sitting at $650,000. Capital and Co Real Estate Thomastown director Jeevan Jey said while the market has dropped in Thomastown, it is a problem in all the suburbs he sells in. “People are holding on [to their money] because of the media hype [about] interest rate hikes,” he said. “April onwards was pretty tough but there has been a lot of activity in this past month [and] now everyone is coming on to the market at the same time.” Mr Jay said buyers from neighbouring suburbs were gravitating towards properties in Thomastown. “Thomastown is close to the city, freeway, shops, and there is decent size land available,” he said. Mr Jay said most buyers in Thomastown are looking for newer houses as opposed to older houses which need renovations. Prices also fell in the neighbouring suburbs of Lalor and Tullamarine. In Lalor the median house price dropped 6.8 per cent in the last quarter, with the median house price sitting at $640,000. Similarly, in Tullamarine the median house price dropped 6.2 per cent in the last quarter with the median house price sitting at $685,000. There is better news for those in Wollert and Epping, with the median house price increasing in the last quarter by 8.5 per cent and 2.7 per cent respectively. In Wollert the medium house price sits at $738,000 and in Epping houses sit at $675,000. Millicent Spencer

Millicent Spencer

Funfield takes a dive and agrees to pay car parking fines Funfields has offered to foot thousands of dollars worth of fines after patrons on Saturday were booked for parking on the nature strip outside the park. According to park management approximately 30-40 fines of $111 were issued to patrons, totalling over $3000, which the park will pay for in full. Funfields managing director Angelo Dinardo said his staff did not direct patrons to park on the naturestrip despite a “mishap“ within the designated parking area. 2 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 31 January, 2023

“We were no where near capacity [but] there was a mishap within our carpark area,” he said. “The cars weren’t parked correctly [because drivers] didn’t follow the marks [so] it made it difficult for patrons to park.“ Sunbury local Jono Scott took his family to Funfields on the weekend, and although he didn’t cop a fine, he said the park was “extremely busy”. “We got there about 10.45am and they had staff in the carpark directing people to park,“ he said. “It was so busy, it was ridiculous -

there were way too many people.“ Mr Angelo said the council parking inspectors were only doing their job, so when he learnt patrons were upset after being issued fines he offered to cover the bill. “The council was doing their job and I don’t have any problem with it,” he said. “That’s why we’ve offered to pay for the fines.“ A spokesperson from Whittlesea said council is committed to protecting the safety of visitors and residents. “Parking on the naturestrip outside

Funfields blocks the views of cars exiting onto the busy Plenty Road, and Council is urging patrons to ensure they are parked legally,“ the spokesperson said. “Police were called to attend a traffic accident at the intersection on Saturday afternoon where a northbound vehicle struck a vehicle exiting the car park and a number of occupants were taken to hospital. Council will continue to work with Funfields in relation to traffic management to ensure that people can enjoy their time at the park and depart safely.”

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Community museum hopes hit By Millicent Spencer The recently relocated Wollert Church has left the local historical society “without a home”, after it was unsuccessful in acquiring the building for its proposed community museum. Whittlesea Historical Society vice president Bruce Batten said it was “disappointing” the group didn’t win the tenancy of the 145-year-old church. “I believed it was supposed to be for the community to share … we were well and truly on those guidelines,“ he said. “You build up hopes and you think you’re in with a shot.” Mr Batten said the group proposed to relocate the church to the Whittlesea Showgrounds and turn it into a museum for the community to engage in their shared history.

“We were going to undertake a joint project if we were successful – the Agricultural Society was going to use it for the show weekend and we were going to deck it out with our historical collections,” he said. “At present all [of our collections] are under people’s beds [so] the community don’t know what we’ve got. “We can’t put any of it on display … we can only bring it out if we get invited to put it on display at a special event [but] that’s only temporary.” As reported by Star Weekly, Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) acquired the original church site as part of the Epping Road Upgrade and preserved the building before passing it on to Working Heritage to manage. The church has been relocated to the Carome Homestead in Mernda, which Working Heritage currently manage.

Working Heritage chief executive Ross Turnbull told Star Weekly the church will be available for the community to hire and more details, including the date of an opening ceremony, will be revealed in the coming months. “We envisage the church will be used for the local community who will be able to hire it at an appropriate community rate,” he said. A MRPV spokesperson said its role was to safely relocate and restore the church before passing it on to Working Heritage to manage. “Major Road Projects Victoria is proud to have relocated and restored this historically significant church which will be used as a community space for generations to come,“ the spokesperson said. MRPV confirmed Working Heritage was selected for a number of reasons, including its experience in managing and conserving

Double the fun as school returns 2023 is double the fun for the Gill household with twins Manreet and Japman starting prep this year. The five-year-old twins will embark on the first of many schooling years at Hume Anglican Grammar in Mickleham. Manreet said she was very excited to start prep this year. “I’m excited about meeting new people, playing on the play equipment, and learning new things,” she said. The girls; mother Sandeep Gill said she shared her kids’ excitement and was looking forward to the first day. “It’s my first two children going to school so I am very excited,” she said. “On the first day we are going to wake up early and I will make their lunches.” Hume Anglican Grammar assistant principal of primary at the Kalkallo campus, Kristen Smith said teachers are working hard to prepare for their new students. “We’re excited to begin a new year and we’re looking forward to meeting the new children,” she said. “Our teachers have already started planning beautiful learning opportunities for them. Ms Smith said the school will welcome 84 preps this year. “It’s really exciting to see the development you have in a prep year,” she said. “We’re welcoming them in with various different starting points [as] they are all coming from different families, cultures, homes, and experiences.” Twins Manreet and Japman, 5, are ready to start their first year of school at Hume Anglican Grammar in Mickleham. (Damjan Janevski)

heritage buildings, commitment to allowing ongoing community use of the church, and its role as the current manager of the Carome Homestead. MRPV confirmed Whittlesea council endorsed the decision. Mr Batten said he would have liked to see more community consultation before the decision was made. “Everyone had preserving the history of the church in mind [so] we thought we had a chance because of what we were going to do with it (turning it into a museum),” he said. “MRPV maybe should have had a meeting with the competitors so we could voice our opinion on what we were going to do with it. “It’s not the first disappointment for the Historical Society, we’ve had a hell of a lot, but we just hope one day we will have a permanent location.”

Tanker for South Morang The South Morang Country Fire Association (CFA) will receive a new heavy tanker by late- 2023. The local CFA was one of the 28 brigades chosen in the final phase of the replacement tanker roll out across the state. CFA chief executive Jason Heffernan said tankers are a vital part of CFA’s fleet, with more than 1900 across the state. “These new tankers are state-of-the-art firefighting vehicles,” he said. “The heavy tankers feature a 15-tonne crew-cab chassis with a 4000-litre water tank, while their 4x4 capability and automatic transmission will help crews access fires in difficult terrain. “They also include features such as electronic monitors and electric rewind hose reels, as well as using a higher percentage of recyclable build materials.” The CFA said the new tankers will ensure volunteer firefighters are well equipped to protect their communities. Manufacturing of the heavy tankers began in September 2021 at Sunshine North manufacturer R.A Bell & Co., with 20 brigades already making use of their new vehicles. The final tankers, including the one for the South Morang brigade, are expected to be complete by September. Millicent Spencer

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Tuesday, 31 January, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 3

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Growth in Broadmeadows, Tulla By Millicent Spencer Broadmeadows and Tullamarine have come in as one of the top 10 fastest growing regions in the country, according to new data from KPMG. The data shows the combined area of Tullamarine and Broadmeadows as the sixth fastest growing region with the 2022 estimated resident population sitting at 212,300. The data shows an annual growth rate of 3.1 per cent between 2019-22 with an increase of 18,800 people residing in the area. Hume councillor Naim Kurt said the data supports his continued advocacy for improving services to people in the growth area of Tullamarine and Broadmeadows.

“From what I’ve seen locally there are a lot of young families moving into the area and they are expecting higher levels of amenities and infrastructure, and it’s up to us as a council to deliver those services,” he said. “That’s why I’ve been a big advocate for improving sporting infrastructure and parklands.” Cr Kurt said people are realising that Broadmeadows is still an affordable area in close proximity to the CBD, making the area an attractive place for many to move. “It’s close to industry, close to public transport, there are lots of amenities, and it’s close to the airport,” he said. “There’s also a lot of infrastructure coming into the area, including a new train line to the airport.” Hume mayor Joseph Haweil said population

in his growing municipality will continue, with growth forecasted to increase by 60 per cent to 395,000 residents by 2041. “As a resident of Melbourne’s north-west, I understand first-hand the growth opportunities facing our community and am dedicated to building a better Hume for all of us,” he said. “In the next four years, we are spending $500 million to build new roads, reserves, playgrounds, libraries, leisure centres and community hubs to support the needs of our growing, diverse community. “We listen to our community in growth areas to ensure Council invests in major infrastructure projects that will benefit our people in the long-term. “As one of Australia’s fastest growing

Pop-up police station

councils, we will continue to work proactively across all three tiers of government to ensure joint investment and positive outcomes for our community.” Wyndham was the fastest growing area across Australia during this period with 34,500 additional residents. Casey came in third adding 29,400 new residents to its population, and Melton fifth with 20,500 people. The data also uncovered the fastest growing regions in the Greater Melbourne area between 2019-22. Again Wyndham topped the list, followed by Casey and the Melton- Bacchus Marsh area. The Tullamarine- Broadmeadows area came in fourth followed by the WhittleseaWallan area at fifth, adding 13,800 people to its population.

Rodeo returns for its 51st installment The 51st Whittlesea Pro Rodeo is around the corner, bringing locals a huge night of non-stop action. Organiser Russell Green said the rodeo gives locals the opportunity to experience Australia’s outback heritage. “The rodeo brings the country to the city … it is a major event for the community,” he said. “Everyone is welcome to come … it’s certainly entertaining!” Mr Green said the Whittlesea rodeo is one of the most respected events in Victoria. “We have some of the best cowboys and best cowgirls,” he said. “Our stock which is coming down from Tamworth this week is supplied by John Gill and Sons, the oldest and most reliable stock contractors. “The animals are breed for this type of thing [and] they love every minute of it.” Mr Green said he encourages families to attend the event. “It’s set around being family entertainment,” he said. “We’ve got Australia’s number one clown who keeps not only the little kids but the big kids happy throughout the rodeo. “It’s a great day out to come and be entertained by the toughest sport on earth.” The Whittlesea Pro Rodeo is on Saturday, February 25 at the Whittlesea Showgrounds. Details: https://www. t icketebo.com.au /ta rra roo-rodeo/ whittlesea-pro-rodeo-2023.html

Craigieburn police have popped up outside Merrifield Shopping Centre in an effort to break down barriers and connect with local residents. Acting Sergeant John Morton said he hopes the mobile policing unit will help make officers more accessible to the community. “It’s an opportunity to reach out to the community and give them the opportunity to tell us what they want,” he said. “They can make reports to us [and] last time we ran this unit we found people were telling us their intel. “This helps us in knowing where we should patrol and how we can support them.” Acting Sergeant Morton said the mobile command centre is eye-catching and often draws intrigued locals in. “It’s not a vehicle you see often so it’s a way to get the community to come up and have a chat,” he said. “We’re hoping to see more of these events.” Craigieburn Police also host the ‘Coffee with a Cop’ event where residents can chat with their local police and ask any questions they may have. For more details contact the station on 9303 4433. Millicent Spencer

Acting Sergeant John Morton and his team in Craigieburn rolled out the pop-up police station to connect with the community.

Millicent Spencer

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 316369

Fifty new medical interns start careers at Northern Health Dallas local Dr Saad Fahd is one of the 50 new medical interns starting at Northern Health this week. Dr Fahd was raised by Syrian migrant parents and attended high school at Gladstone Park Secondary College. He said he is looking forward to starting his career close to home. “Northern Health has been my local hospital growing up, and it’s helped many of my friends and family over the year with their medical appointments, surgeries, obstetric care and so much more,” he said. “Between what is now Broadmeadows Hospital and Northern Hospital, many visits were made alongside family members after-school and on days off as the ‘support’ family member. 4 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 31 January, 2023

“It’s through these interactions that my passion for medicine was seeded and I became ever motivated to play a small, but hopefully significant, role in delivering medical care that is compassionate and accessible to the most vulnerable members of our community.” Dr Fahd said he was looking forward to working with the staff and local community. “The staff here are absolutely lovely and the patient demographic reflects the demographic I’ve been surrounded with my whole life,“ he said. “I wanted to be a part of the service I have grown familiar with and help the very community that I call home.” Dr Fahd said navigating the pathway towards a becoming a doctor was challenging with no

one in his family working in the medical field. “Keeping my grades up during my undergraduate studies and achieving a satisfactory score in the graduate medical entrance exam was really difficult,“ he said. “It was particularly challenging given the multiple part-time jobs I held over the years of my study, right up until I graduated last year.“ Northern Health’s medical services director Dr Kean Kuan said she was looking forward to working with the interns in 2023. “Congratulations to each of them for, not only making it through medical school, but doing so during a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic,” she said. Millicent Spencer

A group of Northern Health’s newest junior doctors. (Supplied)

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AUSTRALIA DAY

Whittlesea welcome for Aussies By Millicent Spencer Flags were waving and smiles were beaming as Whittlesea welcomed 260 new citizens to the municipality. Whittlesea chair administrator Lydia Wilson said she was delighted to have welcomed hundreds of new adults and children from over 30 different countries to the municipality across two ceremonies on January, 26. “[You] have made what is a really important decision in your lives, you’ve chosen to become Australian citizens,” she said. “As an Australian citizen from today this flag becomes your flag.” After living in Mill Park for almost six years, Sakunthala Narendra and her son Kohul received their citizenships. “I’m very excited and happy,” Ms Narendra said. “We’re excited to make Australia our new home.” The Narendra family had a very special visitor in attendance – Ms Narendra’s mother flew from India to witness her daughter and grandson become Australians. “It’s the first time we’ve seen my Mum after COVID,” Ms Narendra said. Aman Farran shared a similar excitement after waiting five years to become a citizen. “I’m feeling good after a long journey,” he said. “I came from Lebanon in 2017 and I have been waiting for five years… it was a struggle at the start when I came as a student – but we got there.” Mr Farran said he loved everything about Australia which he now is proud to call home. “The opportunities, the nature, the people, the culture – I call it the nation of opportunities.” For Adbullah Haris it was the opportunities Australia offered for his children that made

Above: The Auzas who all become citizens. Above right: Pimlapa Khampu from Thailand became a citizen. (Pictures: Millicent Spencer)

Left: Aman and Majid Farran. Centre: Abdullah and Nilofar Haris celebrate the moment they have been waiting for. Right: The Narendra family.

him take the next step to become a citizen. “My oldest son is doing a PhD, my second is doing a masters at Monash, and the third is doing commerce,” he said. “When I first filled out the form I said my biggest investment in Australia is my children. “It is very exciting to be an Australian citizen... our life is settled here, and everything is good.” Mr Haris’ wife Nilofar Haris echoed a similar testament.

“We love Australia because it’s so multicultural and peaceful,“ she said. “This is a really beautiful time for us.“ In attendance was MP Andrew Giles who used the opportunity to encourage the new citizens to embrace the opportunity to “think hard” about the reconciliation journey of the nation. “I hope you will participate in the referendum and will consider the voices of first nations people,” he said.

Mr Giles also encouraged the community to take the opportunity to share their culture with the nation. “Today nearly 20,00 people became Australian citizens [and] they bring with them their stories, their backgrounds, the pride in who they are, and a sense of possibility the country we might be,” he said. “As you become full members of the Australian community, share your stories [and] share your thoughts.”

What’s on

Community Environment Festival Join us for a day of family fun with nature-based activities and interactive displays, perfect for adventurous explorers to learn about nature and the local environment. This festival will include: • a ninja-course • nature-based fun and games • a live butterfly display • science activities • BBQ and much more! Find out more information at www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/events

Kindergarten Applications Kindergarten is an educational program for children delivered by qualified early childhood teachers in the two years before they start school. From this year, kindergarten will free for all three and four-year-old children! Applications are now open for 2023 and 2024. On Wednesday 1 February, applications for the following will be open: • Three-year-old kindergarten in 2024 • Four-year-old kindergarten in 2025 Find more information including how to apply visit, www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/kinder

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Tuesday, 31 January, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 5

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Campaign to cool public housing By Millicent Spencer Advocates are calling for minimal rental standards for public housing residents when it comes to keeping homes cool as Melbourne swelters through a summer heatwave. Tenancy advocacy group Better Renting executive director Joel Dignam said preliminary data from public housing residents in Victoria shows the maximum temperature recorded this summer was 33.85 degrees compared to 31.86 degrees in other rentals. “On average public housing tenants are above 25 degrees 24 per cent of the time [compared to] 18.9 per cent for private renters … that’s about

an extra hour a day above 25 degrees,” he said. Banksia Gardens resident Rick Kapaufs said while he is grateful the government has given him a home for his family, the recent heatwave was “unbearable”. “There’s people suffering here – children are suffering here, my children are suffering – they can’t even sleep in their rooms,” he said. “The sunrises from behind me, and sets in front of me – basically the sun is on the place from morning to dusk but if we have proper insulation and aircon we would probably live a bit more happily.” Mr Kapaufs said during the recent heatwave, the second story of his flat, where his two kids

usually sleep, was unliveable. “As soon as you walk up the stairs you’re walking into the heat…you wouldn’t send your worst enemy upstairs,” he said. “I spent half an hour hosing down the brick wall of my son’s bedroom. The bricks [stayed] hot for three days so we had to stay downstairs.” Mr Dignam said with climbing temperatures, the heat experienced by public housing residents is of concern. “[In public housing] you have people who for one have lower incomes so their ability to pay their energy costs is lower. “Also people are more likely to have health needs and this can be affected by the heat.“

Rental and Housing Union caseworker Alex Grunewald said retrofitting air conditioners in existing public housing is a “stop gap measure”. “The government should be looking to retrofit insulation where possible,” he said. A Homes Victoria Spokesperson said $112 million has been invested into upgrading conditioners and ceiling insulation through the Energy Efficiency in Social Housing Program. “So far, 18 properties in Banksia Gardens have had their gas heating appliances replaced with modern split system air conditioners,” the spokesperson said. “61 homes in Banksia Gardens are currently being assessed for energy efficiency upgrades eligibility.”

Free after-school care Banksia Gardens Community Centre is set to roll out a range of new free after-school programs. Community Centre youth justice and community support co-ordinator Paul Atkinson said there are a couple of hundred children registered in the after-school program which will now be offered five days a week. “We’re changing up how we are doing the after-school program, upping it from three days to five days, so we have something for kids [most] days of the week,” he said. “For some of the kids the alternative to getting involved in the activities we run, is getting involved in anti-social activity. “We have a physical attendance of about 50 kids each day, who are mainly primary and high school students.” Mr Atkinson said the role of the after-school program is to support students who may not

have someone at home to assist them. “Some parents English language skills aren’t great and for others their parents aren’t involved,” he said. “This area can be a tough place to live, so having extra supportive adults in their lives can be important.” Mr Atkinson said the program offers a variety of areas and subjects students can engage with. Mr Atkinson said the after school program is always growing, but currently it is limited to the funding available and volunteer involvement. He said they are looking to expand into different areas, but it requires finding the right volunteers or getting enough money to employ people. Details: https://banksiagardens.org.au/ Millicent Spencer

Mill Park temple vandalised with anti-Indian sentiment

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School journey starts Twins Avinoor and Parinoor are eagerly counting down the days until school starts. The sisters are among 168 preps starting at Hume Anglican Grammar next week, with 84 enrolled at each of the school’s two campuses at Mt Ridley and Donnybrook. Schools across Hume and Whittlesea will begin welcoming their 2021 prep pupils from Thursday. This week will also mark the opening of three new primary schools in Hume and Whittlesea. Mickleham’s Gaayip-Yagila Primary School, Greenvale’s Keelonith Primary School and Wollert’s Edgars Creek Primary School will all open their doors for the first time. They are among eight new schools to open in Hume and Whittlesea over the next four years, with Kalkallo Commons Primary School, Greenvale Secondary College, Wollert East Primary School and a Catholic primary school in Mickleham scheduled to open in 2022. A Catholic primary school in Greenvale is expected to open in 2023.

School journey starts (Damjan Janevski) 225262_01

Twins Avinoor and Parinoor are eagerly counting down the days until school starts. The sisters are among 168 preps starting at Hume Anglican Grammar next week, with 84 enrolled at each of the school’s two campuses at Mt Ridley and Donnybrook. Schools across Hume and Whittlesea will begin welcoming their 2021 prep pupils from Thursday. This week will also Laura Michell mark the opening of three new By primary

Laura Michell

Melbourne Airport has asked the state government to give it more power to intervene in developments which could impact aircraft operations or lead to noise complaints. Airport operators Australia Pacific Airports (Melbourne) has made a submission to the state government’s Melbourne Airport Environs Safeguarding Committee, which was set up to advise the planning minister on improvements to the planning provisions safeguarding the airport. In its submission, Melbourne Airport called for the government to designate it as a referral authority, meaning applicants would formally be required to consult with the airport on any 12473232-FA03-21

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developments in the surrounding area. The submission stated that the airport is currently notified of planning permit applications as though it were a “third-party objector”. “Unlike a determining or even recommending referral authority, its position on any application has no statutory significance,” the submission stated. The submission cited recent applications and approvals which had the potential to generate a large number of noise complaints or impact on aircraft operations, including housing development in Phillip Street, Dallas, and a waste to energy facility proposed for Craigieburn. It stated the airport receives about 20 noise complaints per month – a figure the airport says will rise in the coming years given the

number of people now living in areas impacted by aircraft noise. Operators fear that if they are not granted a greater say in nearby developments, the airport could face constraints on its operations, such as a curfew or a reduction in airspace. “Constraints such as restrictions on flight paths, aircraft volumes (even during daylight hours) and aircraft types are all potential risks to the flexibility that Melbourne Airport’s operations presently enjoy,” the submission states. “The introduction of any such restrictions would have significant and far-reaching consequences for both Melbourne Airport, and its contribution to the state economy.” Melbourne Airport chief financial officer Grant Devonport said that if approved, referral

authority status would ensure the airport is consulted from the outset on developments subject to noise impacts, and those that have the potential to impact on aircraft operations. A Hume council submission to the inquiry stated the council “remains committed to protecting Melbourne Airport’s 24-hour curfew free operation”. It said meeting the needs of the general population growth of Melbourne, Hume and other aircraft noise-affected municipalities, has been a source of tension at the planning permit stage. “How to strike an appropriate balance between facilitating community needs and expectations against protecting the operations of Melbourne Airport is a difficult question that needs to be given very careful consideration.”

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Airport bid for more power

6 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 31 January, 2023

Ahmad, 9, Mojtaba, 13, and Yusef, 13, making pizzas. (Damjan Janevski) 315324_01

Community leaders have condemned the recent vandalism of three Hindu places of worship, including the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha in Mill Park. On Thursday, January 12 the gates of the Mill Park temple were graffitied with anti-Indian sentiment. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir issued a statement in response to the vandalism. “We are deeply saddened by the anti-India graffiti at the gates of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Mill Park, Melbourne, Australia by anti-social elements,” the statement said. “The BAPS temple in Mill Park, like all temples of BAPS worldwide, is an abode of peace, harmony, equality, selfless service, and universal Hindu values. “At this time, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, has prayed for peace and unity and has appealed to all devotees and well-wishers to maintain peace. “We are thankful to the appropriate authorities, including the governments of Australia and India as well as local community organisations, for their continued support.” A Victoria Police spokesperson said they are investigating reports of criminal damage in Mill Park on Thursday, January 12. “It is understood offenders wrote racist graffiti on a temple in Heaths Court in the early hours of the morning,” the spokesperson said. “We take any report of racism seriously, including in the form of graffiti, and we encourage anyone with information about this type of activity to report it to police. “Police will often engage with local council to ensure the swift removal of any racist or offensive material when a report is made.”

BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Mill Park. (Facebook)

Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio said she reached to the Mandir to express her concern with the attack on the temple. “The Mandir is a very important place of worship across broader Melbourne and is used to host many events that grow a better understanding amongst us all of the rich diversity of our community,” she said. “I have had the honour of visiting on many occasions and hope that the appropriate authorities can identify those responsible and bring them to account. “There is no place in our community for such attacks. “I wish every member of the BAPS community peace, harmony and good will.” Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident, has CCTV footage or information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au. Millicent Spencer

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Police seize cars, goods Police have charged a 36-year-old Tullamarine man and seized a number of items as part of a targeted investigation. Police seized three vehicles, including a Range Rover Sport, a RAM Laramie and a Mazda 3 which was previously stolen from an address in Essendon in December. Additionally, officers seized a radio frequency jammer, a Rolex watch, approximately $28,000 cash, and drugs which police believe is cocaine.

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The Craigieburn Festival returns

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Dancers from The Cultural Centre of Florinians. (Supplied)

Cultural festival coming The first Florinian Vasilopita Festival is coming to Whittlesea with dancing, music, and lots of food. The festival is presented by The Cultural Centre of Florinians, one of the oldest Greek cultural groups still running in Victoria, bringing together Greek, Bulgarian, Anatolian, Romani, and Klezmer communities. The Cultural Centre of Florinians dance instructor and cultural co-ordinator George Kiriakidis said while this is the first year the centre will host a festival, the tradition of Vasilopita is one that goes back centuries. “The tradition which involves making a cake (also known as Vasilopita) usually occurs on January 1 and marks the start of the Greek religious calendar,” he said. “All the families on the day will make Vasilopita and they will put a gold coin in the cake and bake it. “It gets shared amongst family members, and

the person who gets the gold coin gets good luck for the year.” Mr Kiriakidis said the tradition of baking Vasilopita, also known as St Basil Bread, will be used as a symbolic gesture to commence the centre’s activities for 2023. “We’re using this event as a way of formally commencing the year,” he said. “We’re going to have Vasilopita and a prize for the lucky recipient of the gold coin. “It’ll be lots of fun with plenty of food, a cooking demonstration, and live dancing.” Mr Kiriakidis said all members of the community are welcome to come and experience the “sharing of traditions”. The Florinian Vasilopita Festival is on Saturday, February 5 between noon-5pm at 119 Dalton Road, Thomastown. Entry is free. Details: 0413 381 915 Millicent Spencer

The Craigieburn Festival is set to return on Saturday, March 4 at Craigieburn’s Anzac Park. The free event has been a favourite on the local calendar for over 25 years and attracts close to 15,000 people. Attendees can expect interactive activities, access to community services, displays from Hume council, and access to view artworks from local artists at the Craigieburn Art Show.

Council inviting feedback Whittlesea council is calling on locals to provide feedback on a range of local laws. Council is seeking feedback on nine priority areas including, a smoking ban extension, nature strip maintenance, dumping of rubbish, and strengthening dog attack laws. Details: visit www.engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/ LocalLawReview FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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‘Life changing’ rare diagnosis More than 7000 rare diseases are currently known by experts worldwide. Fatima Halloum hears the challenges faced by sufferers, their families and professionals whose lives are affected by a rare disease. Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency

Elliott was diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome when he was 14 months old.

Wyndham councillor Adele Hegedich wants people to know that for all intents and purposes, her family was completely normal before their lives were turned upside down ten years ago. “Rare disease can affect anyone at any time. That’s what happened to us,” she said. “We didn’t discover it until 2012, when my brother Eduardo had a hyperammonemic episode. As a result of that we were all genetically tested and that’s how we discovered mum and my sister also have it.” Ornithine Transcarbamylase (OTC) Deficiency affects the liver’s ability to create the enzymes that remove ammonia, more commonly known as waste, resulting in high levels of ammonia remaining in the body. “It’s something that they were all born with but they were what is known as adult late onset,” Adele explained. Because Adele’s family were unaware they carried the illness, doctors initially believed her brother’s episode was drug induced, and by the time he had been diagnosed, the elevated levels of ammonia had caused irreparable damage to his brain.

(Damjan Janevski) 266764_02

‘‘

Sometimes I think there’s a stigma attached, they’re not bad things, they’re just things we need to understand

’’

said. “I came across someone who’s just joined our group and they were forty years old when they found out and he had a lot of questions. He had to rethink everythin that he did.”

- Adele Hegedich

“It was almost four days before they were able to diagnose it and by then the damage had already been done,” she said. “Had we known that my brother was having a hyperammonemic episode, the doctors would have intervened earlier with medication. “As a result of his episode, he suffered a severe brain injury. He requires 24/7 care, and lives in specialist disability accommodation.” Adele says that one of the difficulties of the disorder, is how differently it can present between people who have the disease. “In my brother’s case he was very hyperactive, in my sister’s case, she suffered migraines and low mood, and mum, she’s got no symptoms,” Adele said. “People we’ve spoken to are in the same boat, they’ve only discovered it because one person had an episode and the rest of the family had been tested. “Unfortunately it’s the worst case scenario before people know that they have it.” Adele and her father were not found to carry the disorder, but she says she definitely believes that they have a responsibility to raise awareness about the life-changing disease. “Sometimes I think there’s a stigma attached, they’re not bad things, they’re just things we need to understand. It’s making it okay to talk about it rather than there being this negative stigma because it can happen to anyone at any time,” she said. Adele’s mother, Nancy, said that as a parent, she feels guilty about what her children have endured. “At 24 when he got diagnosed, he had a life ahead of him that was exceptional, now his life is changed,” Nancy said of her son. Nancy said she hopes people don’t feel frightened, but need to be made aware of the disorder. “I’ve been to so many doctors and said ‘my son has OTC’ and they look at me like I’ve come from space because they have no idea what they’re dealing with,” Nancy said. “There are rare diseases, and people just living in our community have got them.” 8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 31 January, 2023

Angelman Syndrome

Left: Adele Hegedich’s family has been devastated by OTC. Her sister Leonora and brother Eduardo De Crescenzo are sufferers. Right: Catherine Kruljac spent much of her childhood in and out of hospital receiving treatment for Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia. (Damjan Janevski) 300521

Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia Most 11-year-olds wouldn’t know what Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia is, but when little Catherine Kruljac found out she had it, the Sunbury resident wasn’t surprised. The now 53-year-old had spent so much of her childhood in and out of hospital, the foreign-sounding words doctors often used were familiar to Catherine. “I had recurrent chest infections and I had half a lung removed when I was four,” she said. “It was constant exacerbations and having a cough, coughing up phlegm, which just sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? “I knew it was something I was going to have for the rest of my life.” Despite needing physiotherapy twice a day, requiring the use of a nebuliser to bring up all the phlegm and mucus that Catherine’s lungs couldn’t naturally filter, she still works full time. “People just think you’re normal, when you do cough people might think you’ve got a really bad cold, or you’ve got COVID so

people give you odd looks,” she said. “You have to explain to them, ‘I’m not infectious, you can’t catch what I’ve got’, not unless genetics can fly out and hit people in the face.” Ten years ago, during a stay in hospital, Catherine decided she wasn’t seeing the services that herself and other PCD sufferers needed and she became a founding member of PCD Australia. “I just wanted to have something that people could go to once they’re diagnosed, they know that there are other people out there going through the same thing as them, and they’re not having to walk that path alone,” she said. “It might not make it any easier, but at least they know they can check in with people or ask somebody something.” Catherine also hopes to help spread the word about PCD not only amongst the broader community, but medical professionals too. “There are a lot of people that haven’t been diagnosed that are walking around with a condition that some GPs are not aware of,” she

Six year-old Elliott is a cheeky, loving boy according to his mother, Chrissy Cimino. Even as a baby she said Elliott was very smiley and easy-going. “He was known to be the perfect baby. Everyone used to say ‘look how much he smiles’,” the Wollert mum said. “Aren’t babies meant to cry though?” By about six months of age, Chrissy said Elliott hadn’t hit his typical milestones. He couldn’t sit up and wasn’t able to hold himself up very well. “That’s when we started to ask questions. We took him to a paediatrician, who said he was fine he was just a ‘happy baby’ but by that time, he was ten months old and still not looking like other kids in my mother’s groups,” she said. “We did our own research and stumbled across Angelman Syndrome Association Australia which is the big major support and advocacy group. We watched the information video and we went ‘Oh my goodness, Elliot has Angelman Syndrome.” Elliott is missing a little part of his chromosome 15, which leaves him, and others with Angelman, with physical and intellectual issues, as well as severe epilepsy. People with the syndrome are also known to have a happy demeanour. “When he starts giggling, he’s makes you smile, he wins people over pretty quickly,” Chrissy said. “He helps you enjoy the finer things in life.” Chrissy hopes to normalise Angelman, so that it can be diagnosed more quickly in other children in the future. “It’s all about increasing awareness in the medical field. We were at the child and maternal health nurse quite frequently and they just didn’t know,” she said. “And listening to the parent’s concern, the mother’s gut is a strong thing. When we say ‘There’s something going on with my child’ to take it seriously.”

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‘‘

You’re being told there’s nothing wrong with you, of course you think you’re going crazy. How can you diagnose this thing? You can’t see it

Elliott now goes to Glenroy Specialist School, he does occupational therapy and physical therapy and visits the children’s hospital often because of his complex severe epilepsy. “I feel as though the community has a long way to go when it comes to inclusion, it’s the simple things of accessibility,” she said. “Elliott’s now in a wheelchair, we’ve had it since October and I didn’t realise how out of my way I need to go. “The level of accessibility in our community is rather limited.”

Visual Snow Syndrome Joanne Fielding doesn’t have a rare disease herself, but much of the associate professor’s time has been dedicated to researching Visual Snow Syndrome. People with the disorder see static, similar to what you would see on an old TV, flickering tiny dots that fill an individual’s entire visual field. Through Joanne’s research, 200 people with Visual Snow Syndrome have been tested but she says researchers are still at the beginning of finding out what the disorder is exactly, and how it is caused. “We see an unusual pattern of responses in people with Visual Snow Syndrome, that you don’t see with anybody else, demonstrating definitively that the brain is abnormal in the sense that there’s a change in function,” she said. “It’s that filtering mechanism that’s broken in effect, so the brain isn’t getting rid of what you’re seeing.”

’’

- Joanne Fielding

Associate Professor Joanne Fielding. (Hynesite Photography)

Using a highly advanced 7T MRI scanner, Joanne and a team of researchers have found a signature, a tiny detail that differs between people with the disorder and people without it.

“It was simple changes. If I put up a suddenly appearing object in the visual field, somebody with visual snow responds to it more quickly, which is odd, considering that you’ve got snowy vision,” she said.

BEHIND THE NEWS

“If I’m asking you to not look at something popping up in your visual field, someone with visual snow has difficulty not looking at it.” Joanne says people with the disorder have varying levels of discomfort and anxiety about what they’re experiencing, which can be further worsened by a lack of awareness of the disorder by healthcare professionals. “Some people are very comfortable with it, they’ve had it all their lives and they have a curiosity, for other people it’s incredibly disabling,” she said. “You’re being told there’s nothing wrong with you, of course you think you’re going crazy. “How can you diagnose this thing? You can’t see it, you have a brain scan, you have your eyes tested, normal, normal, normal, so we’re looking for those very subtle changes. “There have been people that have said ‘this isn’t a thing, stop trying to scare people’ and that’s not what we’re trying to do, we’re trying to educate the medical community to say that if you see someone that’s reporting these symptoms, you reassure them that this is a thing.” As far as experts are aware, Visual Snow Syndrome won’t result in blindness, but “entirely crucial” funding needed to continue the research can be difficult to obtain. “It doesn’t progress, it doesn’t kill you, think about what we’re up against in terms of other diseases,” she said. Joanne says the team is always collecting data, and individuals who have the disorder can assist by completing surveys or participating in MRI studies run in Melbourne. Details: visual.snow@monash.edu

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Hume welcomes new citizens By Millicent Spencer and Elsie Lange One-hundred-and-forty-seven new citizens were welcomed to the Hume municipality on Australia Day, in a celebration of a region which has “built prosperity on the foundation of immigration”. Dressed for celebration, attendees on Thursday, January 26, took their seats and waited to be pronounced citizens, some after many years of waiting. Gathering at Broadmeadows Town Hall, residents listened to the voices of local, state and federal government representatives discuss what it means to them to be Australian. Hume mayor Joseph Haweil said he was proud his municipality was home to people from 170 different countries who speak over 150 different languages. “We’re a leading example of a multicultural community coming together to celebrate what makes us different and what brings us together as Australians,” Cr Haweil said. He said since Australia’s first citizenship ceremony in 1949, the country had welcomed more than five million new citizens to Australian shores. Of those new citizens was Syed Rizvi from Roxburgh Park who said he was very excited about the ceremony. “We are feeling bright and happy,” he said. “We moved from Pakistan in 2017… everything here is calm and quiet.” Shyam Varghese and his son Jakes migrated from India too, but after reciting their pledge they now call Craigieburn their forever home. “It’s an awesome day… we can’t ask for anything more,” Mr Varghese said. “It’s been eight years, so a long journey. “It’s such an open country – it’s so very welcoming and everyone feels equal here.” For Broadmeadows local George Adam and his family, the day had “finally“ come for them to be declared as citizens after waiting six years. “It’s a nice thing to have become a citizen [because] we can do everything now,” Mr Adam said. Mr Adam’s sister, Jezelle Adam said she was excited her family could officially call Australia home.

Councillors along with state and federal MPs gathered to celebrate Hume’s newest citizens.

Left: The Adam family from Broadmeadows have “finally” become citizens. Centre: Shyam Varghese and son Jakes, 4, who migrated from India. Right: Nearly 150 locals were declared citizens at Hume’s Australia Day ceremony. (Pictures: Millicent Spencer)

“It’s an honour to be an Australian citizen… we have a lot of privilege.” Federal Calwell MP Maria Vamvakinou used her speech to rally the audience around the First Nations Voice to Parliament

referendum, set to take place this year. “The next year will be important to our people, as Australians, as we contemplate the referendum that’s to come, that will ask us whether we want a Voice in Parliament for

Indigenous Australians,” she said. “I just wanted to say to you all how important that referendum would be and how important these outcomes will be in determining the future of this country.”

MY PLACE Hume’s LGBTIQ+ liaison officer (LLO) Senior Constable Lucy Lenius, tells Millicent Spencer about her work in serving the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer community. What’s your connection to Hume? I have worked in the Broadmeadows area for almost four years and grew up living in Hume. What do you like about where you work? The variety of work [as] no two jobs are ever the same, [which] makes the role challenging and engaging. There have been times where I feel that my work has genuinely made a difference in people’s lives. Why did you join Victoria Police? And specifically, why did you take on the role of a LGBTIQ+ LLO? As cliché as it sounds, I have a genuine desire to help people. I took on the role of LGBTIQ+ Liaison to be an approachable police member for the community and help break the stigma. Being a LLO has given me the opportunity to attend LGBTIQ+ events and I have become a regular member of the Victorian Pride March. What do you hope to achieve as a LLO? To provide assistance to the LGBTIQ+ community that may be apprehensive about contacting police. 10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 31 January, 2023

At Broadmeadows, we are currently operating a referral system where members of the LGBTIQ+ community who experience Family Violence can be referred to a LLO to assist in making the process more supportive and comforting. What do you do on your time off from work? I’m big on my craft projects, painting and resin art, and sports of course. What is one thing about you that people would be surprised to learn? Prior to being general duties police, I was a Protective Services Officer, which is where I started my LLO journey at Midsumma Carnivals and Pride March. What do you want the community to know about you? I am committed to creating a respectful and supportive environment for the community. Generally if the community is needing to contact police, it is not a good day from them. I want them to know we are here to assist if they need safety.

Hume’s LGBTIQ+ liaison officer (LLO) Senior Constable Lucy Lenius. (Supplied)

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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

Craigieburn Festival A local favourite for over 25+ years, the Craigieburn Festival returns on Saturday, March 4 from 12pm — 9pm at Craigieburn ANZAC Park. The festival is a non-ticketed event, but council encourages you to register your interest in attending via the Eventbrite page. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Residents/ Things-to-See-and-Do/Craigieburn-Festival

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

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

Car, Truck, and Bike Show The eighth annual Car, Truck, and Bike Show is back. Vehicles will be displayed from 8am on February 26 at the rear of Craigieburn Central. There will be music, trophies, and door prizes too! All funds from the show will be donated to the Isabella and Marcus Paediatric Brainstem Tumour Fund. ■ Councillor Jim Overend, 0408 305 558.

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

Liahona, 5, and organisers of the Pacifika Festival Tonya Toi, Vicki Kinai and Jone Temo at the Tarneit community garden. (Damjan Janevski) 316428_01

Program-Hume-Youth-Engagement-andPathways-468899469937

Arts and games night

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

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

Sunbury Police Community Register

Carer connect chat

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

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

Senior citizens meet

Women’s Only Swimming Women only swimming program provides a place where women can feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying the benefits of the pools, spa, steam room and sauna. Sessions commence Sunday 2 October, and occur each week. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Womens-Only-Swimming-BroadmeadowsAquatic-and-Leisure-Centre

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the n Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday from 11.30am-1pm at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park. ■ www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Roxburgh-Park-Homestead-Communityand-Learning-CentreWeekly-CommunityLunch-317411976767

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

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

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

HarmoniX Vocal Company

On the first and third Tuesday of the month breast cancer survivors are invited to head along to the Gisborne Golf Club at 10.30am to take part in a breast cancer support group. There they discuss experiences, find connections and improve mental health. ■ Lesley, 0484 691 226

Get involved with an all-male, auditioned singing group happening on Thursday, 79.30pm in Sunbury. The group is inviting new members to join. The group also has a mixed choir, DynamiX Vocal Company, rehearsing Tuesday. 7-9.30pm. Both groups rehearse at Dulap Wilim Hub, 11 Leichardt Street, Sunbury. No auditions required, just bring your love of music. ■ harmonixvcinc@gmail.com

Village connect

Jacksons Creek Combined Probus

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

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

Breast cancer support group

■ Doug, 5428 3317, or Teresa, 9746 3402

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

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Tuesday, 31 January, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 11

PUZZLES

9-LETTER WORD Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Today’s Aim: 24 words: Good 36 words: Very good

3 8 9 5 4 7 1 6 2

7 5 3 4 6 8 2 1 9

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LIMPS MAXIM NINES OILED PLANT POETS REAMS RESET RESTS RHINO RIVAL SAFES SALAD SCRAP SEEDS SHIRE SITED STATE STAVE TEENS TENOR

THEIR TREES TRUES UNITY USHER WAITS WEARY

7 LETTERS BATSMAN FERRIES LISTENS MASSAGE RAMMING TRACING

6 LETTERS EASIER GALAHS GANGED PREFER

8 LETTERS AVERAGES ENTITLES SOMETIME STRAINED

03-02-23

No. 118 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

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4 LETTERS BOSS BUTS CURL ELSE GYMS ISLE MASS OBOE PEAS SARI SEAL SEAS WERE WILL

QUICK QUIZ

What is the capital city of Afghanistan?

What is the sacred language of Hinduism?

In what city was the world’s first formal stock exchange?

In 1992’s My Cousin Vinny, what is the profession of the titular Vinny (pictured)?

Phobos is a moon of which planet?

What is the Flavian Amphitheatre more commonly known as?

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4 6 5 2 8 3 1 9 7

12 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 31 January, 2023

ALIVE AORTA AROMA AROSE ATONE CASTE CEASE CHINA DENIM DENSE DETER DRESS EASED EDGES EERIE EMAIL ERODE EVENT EXUDE GOOSE HOSES

10 11 12 13

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Larry Page and Sergey Brin founded which company in 1998?

Which of the seven ancient wonders of the world still exists?

10 What is the main ingredient in Vegemite? ANSWERS: 1. Kabul 2. Sanskrit 3. Amsterdam 4. Lawyer 5. Mars 6. The Colosseum 7. Flambé 8. Google 9. The Pyramid of Giza 10. Yeast extract

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To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

QUICK CROSSWORD

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

50-metre pool a reality

Michaela Meade

By Michaela Meade

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

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Broadmeadows Country Supermarket 7 Olsen Place Broadmeadows IGA Friendly Supermarket 10 Olsen Place Broadmeadows Broadmeadows Newsagency 21 Olsen Place Broadmeadows Milk Bar - Broadmeadows 23 Olsen Place Broadmeadows Broadmeadows Central SC 1099 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Coles Supermarket 1099-1169 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Woolworths Supermarket 1099-1169 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows Phil - Asian Grocery Business 16 Railway Crescent Bundoora Foodworks Bundoora 1 Andrew Place Bundoora Andrews Place Milk Bar 4 Andrew Place Bundoora Frank Milk Bar 19 Balaka Place Bundoora Good & More Asian Grocery 6/42 Copernicus Crescent Bundoora Bundoora Fruit Market, Uni Hill Town Centre, Janefield Drive Bundoora Mr Asian Grocer 1 Janefield Drive Bundoora Uni Factory Outlets 2 Janefield Drive Bundoora Uni Hill Town Centre 5 Janefield Drive Bundoora RMIT Campus Store Building 202 Level 2, Plenty Road Bundoora Gugu Asian Grocery 3803/43 Plenty Road Bundoora Woolworths Supermarket 69-85 Plenty Road Bunndora Shell Service Station 127-133 Plenty Road Bundoora Coles Supermarket Summerhill 850 Plenty Road Bundoora Caltex Woolworths Service Station 959-969 Plenty Road Bundoora BP Service Station 1050 Plenty Road Bundoora Polaris 3083 Shopping Centre 1056 Plenty Road Bundoora Woolworths Polaris Cnr Plenty Rd & Nain Drive Bundoora Coles Supermarket Bundoora Sq SC Settlement Rd

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Campbellfield Chris and Marie’s 1477 Sydney Road Campbellfield Barry Road Milk Bar 331 Barry Road Coolaroo Meadow Heights Newsagency Shop 16, 55 Paringa Boulevard Coolaroo Melba Vale Country Club 1390 Pascoe Vale Road Craigieburn Craigieburn Convenience Store 19 Bank Street Craigieburn Hume City Council 75-95 Central Park Avenue Craigieburn Coles Service Station 42-44 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Connections - Craigieburn 59 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Craigieburn Central Shopping Centre 340 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Harry Brown Liquor G03/420-440 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn The Foodary Caltex 420-440 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Freshplus Craigieburn 420-440 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket 10 Craigieburn Road Craigieburn Coles Supermarket Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Windrock Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Aitken Rd Craigieburn Quality Food Store Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Aitken Rd Craigieburn Milk Bar Store 100 Fairways Boulevard Craigieburn Nanak Indian Grocery Highlands SC 300 Grand Boulevard Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket 300 Highlands SC Grand Boulevard Craigieburn Highlands News & Lotto 300 HighlandsSC Grand Boulevard Craigieburn Hothlyn Drive Milk Bar Hothlyn Drive Craigieburn Foodworks 130-132 Hothlyn Drive Craigieburn Caltex - now Ampol 315 Hume Highway Craigieburn Metro Petroluem 330 Hume Highway Craigieburn IGA Xpress Grand Boulevard 27-29 Princes Circuit Craigieburn Moey’s Milk Bar 2 Smeaton Court Doreen TSG Riverstone Convenience Cafe Shop 1/121 Elation Boulevard Doreen Laurimar Centre Newsagency Shop 8, 95 Hazel Glen Drive Doreen Woolworths Supermarket 95 95 Hazel Glen Drive

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Doreen Doreen General Store 920 Yan Yean Road Epping Foodworks 10/351 Dalton Road Epping Pacific Epping Shopping Centre 571-583 High Street Epping The Groove Train 571-583 High Street Epping IGA Plus Liquor 1/53 McDonalds Road Epping Greenbrook Milk Bar 2/53 McDonalds Road Gladstone Park Gladstone Park SC 8-34 Gladstone Park Drive Glenroy Pascoe Vale Road Market 815 Pascoe Vale Road Glenroy Glenroy Newsagency 773 Pascoe Vale Drive Greenvale Coles Supermarket 1-11 Greenvale Drive Greenvale Greenvale Newsagency Shop 4, 1 -11 Greenvale Drive Lalor Woolworths Supermarket Hurtle Street Lalor Lalor Library 2A May Road Lalor Dandy Mart 17-19 May Road Lalor No 1 Fruit Market 37 May Road Lalor Coles Supermarket 47-71 May Road Lalor Lalor Plaza Newsagency Shop 22, 17 McKimmies Road Lalor Lalor Plaza Shopping Centre McKimmies Road Lalor Coles Supermarket Lalor SC Cnr McKimmies Road & Darebin Drive Lalor Santino Continental Grocery 296 Station Street Lalor Afghan Supermarket 322 Station Street Lalor Everfresh Fruit Market 346 Station Street Mernda Coles Mernda Mernda Junction SC Cnr Plenty Rd & Bridge Inn Rd Mernda Riverdale General Store 33 Riverdale Boulevard Mernda Mernda Post Office 50 Mernda Village Drive & Galloway Drive Mernda Woolworths Supermarket Mernda Village Drive & Galloway Drive Mill Park Centenary Drive Milk Bar 147 Centenary Drive Mill Park 7 - Eleven Mill Park 252 Childs Rd & Morang Dr Mill Park The Stables Shopping Centre Childs Road Mill Park Grenda Milk Bar Grenda Drive Mill Park Coles Supermarket McDonalds Road Mill Park Westfield Plenty Valley 415 McDonalds Road Mill Park Shriji Supermarket 522 Plenty Road Mill Park Woolworths Shop 8/538 Plenty Road

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Mill Park Rivergum Village Shopping Centre 538 Plenty Road Mill Park Woolworths Supermarket Cnr Redleap Ave & Childs Rd Roxburgh Park Woolworths Supermarket Somerton Road Roxburgh Park Coles @ Roxburgh Village SC 250 Somerton Rd Roxburgh Park South Morang South Morang Milk Bar 15 Gorge Road South Morang Westfield Plenty Valley SC 415 McDonalds Road South Morang North City Accountants 7/545 McDonalds Road South Morang Coles Supermarket Mill Park Lakes, The Lakes Boulevard Thomastown Foodworks 126 Alexander Ave Thomastown Caltex Thomastown Cnr Dalton Road & Wood St Thomastown Thomastown News & Lotto 223 High Street Thomastown Thomastown Library 52 Main Street Thomastown BP Service Station 72 Keon Parade Thomastown APCO Service Station 228-234 Settlement Road Thomastown Shell Service Station 27 Cnr Spencer St & Dalton Rd West Meadows Shell Petrol Station West Meadows 36 Fawkner Street West Meadows The Old Broadie Milkbar 40 Fawkner Street West Meadows Claudio’s IGA Supermarket 12-23 Fawkner Street West Meadows Caltex Petrol Station - West Meadows 227 Mickleham Road Whittlesea Whittlesea Bakery 34 Church Street Whittlesea NewsXpress Whittlesea 45 Church Street Whittlesea Whittlesea Courthouse Information Centre 74 Church Street Whittlesea IGA Supermarket - Whittlesea Shop 2, 22 Church Street University Hill Coles Supermarket Uni Hill 224 Plenty Road University Hill Wollert Wollert Post Office 491 Epping Road Also available from Real Estate Agents everywhere

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NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMIT (Section 52 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987) The property affected by the application is located at: 17 Oxley Avenue BUNDOORA (Lot 1 on Title Plan 093066G) The application is for a permit: To Vary Restrictive Covenant F114489 to allow for two (2) dwellings on a lot. The applicant for the permit is: D Hickey You may look at the application and any documents that support the application on the City of Whittlesea website via the following link https://www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/ building-planning-development/planning/advertising/ The application reference number is: PLN-39880 You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the ofﬁce of the responsible authority: City of Whittlesea, 25 Ferres Blvd, South Morang. This can be done during the ofﬁce hours of 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday. This service is free of charge. Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority. An objection must be sent to the responsible authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected. The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 14 February 2023. If you object, the responsible authority will inform you of its decision. For information regarding access to Planning documents relating to this application please contact Council’s Building and Planning Department on 9217 2259.

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

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. In which year did Stefanos Tsitsipas defeat tennis great Roger Federer in a shocking upset at the Australian Open?

4. True or false: Ronda Rousey in an Olympic bronze medallist?

14. The NFL team Buffalo Bills are based in which US state?

5. What nationality is F1 racer Alexander Albon?

2. Which team was Collingwood star Brodie Grundy traded to in the off-season?

6. Who won the 2016 Super Bowl?

15. Before competing in 2023, how many times has Victoria Azarenka won the Australian Open women’s singles title?

3. Former Manly Sea Eagles star Martin Taupau will play for which NRL team in 2023?

8. At what time did the mammoth five-set match between Andy Murray and Thanasi Kokkinakis end at this years’ Australian Open?

7. Which AFLW star recently announced her retirement?

9. Which former WWE champion has a leading role in M. Night Shyamalan’s 2023 horror film, Knock at the Cabin? 10. Which UFC athlete goes by the nickname ‘The Baddy’? 11. What is the nickname of the NBL team based in South East Melbourne? 12. What is the name of the recent Netflix tennis documentary series? 13. Ash Gardner represents Australia in which sport? Stefanos Tsitsipas

Ronda Rousey

16. Former Western Bulldogs star Lachie Hunt will play for which AFL team in 2023? 17. Which cricket star was recently involved in a public altercation in Noosa with Karl Stefanovic? 18. Dwight Yorke recently ended his tenure as coach of which A-League team? 19. In what year did the first AFL Women’s season take place?

22. Which A-League team rivalry is known as ‘The Big Blue’? 23. Which 224cm NBA basketballer played a hitman in the film John Wick: Chapter 3 Parabellum? 24. Bronson Xerri is set to return to the NRL with which club?

20. How many nations participated in the first modern Olympics in 1896?

25. Which Australian former tennis professional is the youngest to win the Australian Open men’s singles title?

21. Jack Ziebell stepped down after six seasons as captain of which AFL club?

26. Football commentator Rex Hunt played a total of 202 games for which three VFL/AFL clubs?

27. Which Swiss former tennis professional is the youngest to win the Australian Open women’s singles title? 28. Which two NFL teams are set to play off in the 2023 AFC Championship game? 29. Which Barbados-born performer is set to headline the halftime show at Super Bowl LVII? 30. Which two NFL teams are set to play off in the 2023 NFC Championship game?

1. 2019 2. Melbourne Demons 3. Brisbane Broncos 4. True (2008 Summer Olympics) 5. Thai-British 6. Denver Broncos 7. Daisy Pierce 8. 4am 9. Dave Bautista 10. Patrick ‘Paddy’ Pimblett 11. Phoenix 12. Break Point 13. Cricket 14. New York 15. Twice (2012, 2013) 16. Melbourne 17. Michael Clarke 18. Macarthur FC 19. 2017 20. 14 21. North Melbourne 22. Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory 23. Boban Marjanovic 24. CanterburyBankstown Bulldogs 25. Ken Rosewall (18 years and 2 months, in 1953) 26. Richmond, Geelong and St Kilda 27. Martina Hingis (16 years and 4 months, in 1997) 28. Kansas City Chiefs and Cincinnati Bengals 29. Rihanna 30. Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers

0302

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SUV in step with hybrid energy By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring With electric vehicles making landfall Down Under like lightning strikes in a tropical summer storm, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid stands out from the deluge, being one of the few family-size sports utility vehicles to take up EV status. It’s not the ‘Full Monty’ electric model but retains in tandem an internal combustion power plant. Until recently the only seven-seater SUV hybridised was the Toyota Kluger. Now the Santa Fe joins the Kia Sorento hybrid and Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid in adding to the mix. No plug-in hybrid here, with its interminable search for external charging points, the Santa Fe hybrid has the brains to charge its lithium-ion battery through conversion of kinetic energy while working in conjunction with the petrol engine and regen brakes when on the move. Available only as upper-crust Elite and Highlander variants, the hybrid is kitted out essentially like its petrol- and diesel-powered cousins. However, an electric shock comes in the price differences – a high voltage $6500 over the petrol and $3000 the diesel, which equates to $63,000 for the Elite and $69,550 for the Highlander, the test vehicle, without on-road costs. Both are seven-seaters but can be reconfigured as a six-seater with two captain’s chairs in the second row instead of the bench. With seven seats, the third row is fit only for littlies’ use in comfort, although it does have its own air-con.

Switched on . . . the Santa Fe has taken on petrol / electric hybrid guise with Elite and Highlander models. (Pictures: Supplied)

Interior With the Hybrid in the higher-grade Elite and Highlander corner, the interior has a classy look and feel, with Nappa leather in the latter and other quality materials shared. An option for the Hybrid is six seats, in which the second-row bench is replaced with a pair of captain’s chairs. With seven seats, the third row is fit only for littlies’ use with comfort. Head room is restricted by the intrusion of the sun roof workings. The boot has a spot for a full-size spare wheel under a flat cargo area with third row folded, there’s room for family shopping or a stroller. With five seats in use there is up to 782 litres on offer. A power tailgate takes away the trauma of loading in the rain.

Styling

Infotainment

What’s new? Not much. A major facelift three years ago saw the Santa Fe put on a fresh face and interior. The new Hybrid differs from the petrol and diesel versions only in the wheels – smaller 19-inch alloys with different design here – said to be more aerodynamic and save fuel. The shapely Santa Fe exterior is well known for its so-called cascading grille, which in the Hybrid case covers a yawning chasm of a radiator. In profile, looks are toned down a tad in readiness for a robust, yet shapely rear.

There’s a configurable 10.2-inch instrument display, which features a digital energy meter and a 12.3-inch infotainment dash-mounted touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and digital radio. A 10-speaker Harman / kardon premium audio is standard.

16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 31 January, 2023

Engines / transmissions Under the bonnet a 1.6 litre, four-cylinder turbo-charged petrol engine with a combined output of 169 kW and 350 Nm are hitched up to a six-speed automatic transmission and

AT A GLANCE

monitor and reverse automatic emergency braking.

MODEL RANGE Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Elite $63,000 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Highlander $69,550 SPECIFICATIONS Santa Fe Highlander 1.6L Turbo 4-cylinder petrol, 44.2 kW electric motor, 6sp automatic, AWD

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

all-wheel drive. While this compares favourably with petrol and diesel performance, when it comes to towing, the hybrid is left behind with 1650 kg to the internal-combustion pair with 2500 kg.

Safety The Santa Fe Hybrid comes with all the latest safety systems from Hyundai. These include automatic emergency braking, which operates at intersections, blind-spot warning, lane keeping assist, rear- cross-traffic alert, rear occupant alert automatic high-beam head lamps and adaptive cruise control. The Hybrid Highlander also takes on 360-degree surround-view camera, blind spot

Driving At a whisker less than 4.8 metres long, the Santa Fe Hybrid Highlander is on the cusp of bursting out of the mid-size SUV mob into the big time. However, a well-sorted suspension and responsive steering come up with relaxed ride and handling. Off the mark, there’s more than a hint of sporty performance, while a centre console dial is in charge of driving modes from Eco to Smart to sand, snow or other obstacles thrown up of road. In a fraction of more than 400 kilometres of mixed urban / highway going the Santa Fe Hybrid Highlander recorded fuel consumption of 6.1 litres per 100 kilometres, in line with the claimed 6 litres per 100 kays. More buttons than the pantomime Cinderella’s eponymous family servant, known for having rows of gilt buttons down the front of his tunic, the floating centre console controls offered up a few missteps. However, familiarity came with repeated use.

Summary Not exactly early adopters, Santa Fe Hybrid buyers get the latest in hybrid technology at a price. But what’s new about bidding for a pollution-free climate.

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Burras continue building to finals

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Gladstone Park is setting itself for a strong finals campaign in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association. The Burras four sides are all in the top four, with their eyes focused on going deep into the season. President Sam Anastasiou said they couldn’t have asked for much more this season. “We’re back up in A-grade and we’re sitting second,” he said. “We’ve been strong throughout the whole club. “Our seconds are sitting second as well and our one-day side is third and our Sunday side is on top. “The atmosphere and the vibe around the club, it’s a good place to be. There’s a great bunch of blokes.” Having won the second division premiership last season, the Burras were keen to have a strong season back in the George Luscombe Shield. Anastasiou said they hadn’t been surprised

by how well they have gone so far. “We expected to make finals and we would be happy with that,” he said. “We kept everyone from last year and we brought in three or four guys. “We wanted to make sure we were competitive and would hopefully make finals.” The Burras are midway through their two-day match against the Chargers. The Chargers made 317, bowled out in the 70th over. Anthony Fawcus took 4-106 off his 22.4 overs. The Burras had to bat 10 overs at the end of day one. They lost one early wicket and will resume at 1-39. Anastasiou said they were missing five or six players out of their top two sides on the weekend, most of them bowlers. Their second XI will also need to score more than 300 for victory. He said even though they were chasing

more than 300 in the first XI, they were confident they could get the job done. “I would be disappointed if we didn’t chase that down,” he said. “Everyone is making a lot of big scores. To get 320 odd in 80 overs is achievable.” A win would move the Burras one step closer to a top two spot. Anastasiou said should they win two of their last three games they would finish in the top two. In the Athol Attwater Shield, Hume is on top against the Northern Lions. Hume was bowled out for 284 in the 56th over. Vishavjeet Singh top scored with 83. The Lions will resume at 4-65. In the Graham Muir Shield, Balmoral made 6-315 against Hume, with Joel Matthews making a century. Tara Murray

Plenty Valley needs a miracle if it’s to come away with the points against Brighton in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-south. The Bats were bowled out for 134 with Mandiv Ruwanpathirana top scoring with 31. Brighton got into the run chase and was in a good position at stumps. Brighton will resume at 2-97.

VTCA Jacana will face Sunbury as it aims to keep its Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 campaign alive. The VTCA announced the next round of the competition which starts on February 2. Teams are in groups of four for this stage of the competition, with each match a knockout match. In region 1, Haig Fawkner faces St Francis de Sales and Yarraville Club plays Point Cook. In region 2, Deer Park plays Sunshine and Sydenham-Hillside plays the Druids, while in region 3 its PEGS vs West Coburg and Jacana against Sunbury. In region 4, Sanctuary Lakes will play Maribyrnong Park St Marys.

Bowls Bundoora RSL is keeping the pressure on the top two sides in the Bowls Victorian weekend pennant premier division. Sitting third, Bundoora faced Richmond Union on Saturday. Bundoora came away with the win, 86 (14)-65 (4). Luke Aiello’s rink was the big winner, winning 24-6. After 13 rounds, Bundoora sits 17 points behind Melbourne and only three points behind second-placed Deer Park. Bundoora faces Clayton this week.

VTCA Westmeadows continued its good form in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association women’s T20 competition. Facing Williamstown CYMS, the Warriors made 4-118 from their overs. The CYs finished 8-79 in reply.

Epping’s Thomas Emmins.

(Shawn Smits) 204988_20

Pingers face a big test By Tara Murray Epping will get the test that it is after in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Barclay Shield. Sitting second with just one loss for the season, the Pingers face Rosanna this weekend in a top of the table clash. Pingers coach Daniel Bramich said they were keen to test themselves against the best side of the competition. “Rosanna is undefeated at the moment,” he said. “We’re the two benchmark teams in the competition this season. “There’s a lot riding on this game and you get to see where you sit in the pecking order.” Bramich knows while they keep adding the wins to the tally, that there is still plenty of work to do for the side. Encouragingly, the side hasn’t been anywhere near their best but continue to come away with the points at the end of the game. “We’ve been winning comfortably, but we haven’t had a full game,” Bramich said. “Our

bowling performances have been good but we’ve had some scratchy batting performances “Hopefully this week against the top team it all clicks for us.” On Saturday, the Pingers had one of the performances that have been the story of their year The Pingers restricted Banyule to 9-119. . Akashdeep Cheema took 3-14 for the Pingers. Bramich said they were happy with that bowling performance. The batters took their time, but the Pingers finally hit the winning runs with two balls to spare. They finished 5-121. Nathan Gardiner top scored with 35. Bramich said the result was closer than they would have liked, but a win is a win. It isn’t just the top side performing well for the Pingers.Bramich said all three senior sides were playing well, as was their women’s side. With the thirds undermanned the last few weeks, some of the women’s players have stepped in to help out.

Bramich said it’s really good for the club. “They’ve trained a few nights together,” he said. “They’re improving year on year, as is women’s sport in general. “The standard has gotten better and they are capable of playing with the men.” In the Money Shield, it was a day for the bowlers with plenty of low scores. Bundoora moved to the top of the table with victory against the Lalor Stars. The Stars made 9-98 from their overs with Mitchell Hayse top scoring with 25. The Bulls shared the wickets around. The Bulls hit the winning runs in the 23rd over, finishing 5-99. Shanin Silva top scored with 37. Bundoora United remains a game outside of the top four with a loss to Eltham, The Bulldogs made 100 before Eltham made 2-103 in reply. Eltham now sits second on the ladder. Laurimar got its third win of the season beating Mernda, while Bundoora Park kept its finals hopes alive with a win against Plenty and Montmorency beat Lower Eltham.

The knockout FFA Cup will start on the weekend of February 12, with changes being made to the structure this season. Football Victoria last week announced that FV state league 4 and 5 teams would enter in round one, with state league 2 and 3 teams entering in the following round. State league 1 and National Premier League 2 and 3 teams enter on March 5, while NPL top tier teams enter the competition in late March or early April.

Uni Hill will come in with the state league 3 sides. (Supplied)

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Portlock makes state metro basketball team The good news keeps coming for Broadmeadows basketball’s Sarah Portlock being named in the Victoria Metro team for the under-18 national championships. Portlock, who has been part of the state program for a number of years, is seen as one of the rising stars of Australian basketball. She was an emergency for the Victorian Metro under-18 team last year. The under-18 championships will be held in April. Other players named in the team are Melbourne Tigers’ Isabella Stewart, Bonnie Autupuna, Edie Clarke, Kilsyth’s Hannah Day and Georgia McBean, Frankston’s Bonnie Deas, Sandringham’s Amelia Hobson, Nunawading’s Madeline Potts and Dandenong’s Manuela Puoch. High performance general manager Grant Wallace said the regular calendar of play and preparation plus recent stellar performances at the East Coast Challenge and Country Cup has determined a high calibre group of athletes to be selected from.

“After an extensive process and a jam-packed start to the high-performance program in 2023 – it’s a good problem to have so many athletes pushing each other and being supportive during the recent tournaments,” he said. “You could see the sense of urgency and passion from the players, and it was an extremely difficult task to finalise the teams.” Portlock is currently attending the Centre of Excellence at the AIS for the best rising stars in the country. In January, it was announced that the 16-year-old would join the Australian Opals squad in camp to gain valuable experience and an understanding of the unique Opals culture. The squad will form the basis of the Opals team for the 2012 Asia Cup and the 2024 Paris Olympics. Portlock will be joined in camp by emerging talent is on the rise with Isobel Borlase (18), Nyadiew Puoch (18) and Shaneice Swain (19).

“The camp will give us the opportunity to bring back our seasoned athletes and mix them with emerging talent in what will be a very competitive environment,” said Opals coach Sandy Brondello. “We have to keep investing in the future and immersing them in the Opals culture, so they know physically and mentally what it takes to play at the highest level.” The under-20 championships are being held during February. Craigieburn’s AJ Magbegor, who plays for Diamond Valley has been named in the Victorian men’s team. He is joined in that team by Knox’s Austin Rapp, Bailey Nunn, Carlin Briggs and Fraser Roxburgh, Diamond Valley’s Daniel Poelsma, Sandringham’s Jensen Bradtke, Melbourne University’s John Furphy, Nunawading’s Tristan Devers and Eltham’s Zahn Agosta. Sarah Portlock

(Supplied)

Jaguars give it their all By Tara Murray Jacana knows a win against the Melton South Royals will go a long way in achieving the side’s finals hopes in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 5 clash. In a battle between third and fourth, a win for either side will take them one step closer to a top four finish. On day one of the clash, it was one for the bowlers with 16 wickets falling. Jaguars coach Niroshan Bandaratilleke said they know how important this match is for the side. “It’s a big game,” he said. “We win this one and we will likely move into third spot. “We’ve been very happy with our season so far as we’ve played very well against the good sides. Hopefully we make finals.” The former Sri Lankan international was left disappointed after day one of the match. The Jaguars were bowled out for just 119. Zafar Iqbal top scored with 44. “It was disappointing,” he said. “There were a few bad decisions. “We lost two players who went overseas. They are two good players, our number four and number five and we have struggled with the bat when they’ve been gone.” While behind the eight ball, the Jaguars bowlers kept them in the game. The Royals will resume at 6-73. Bandaratilleke is hoping for quick wickets on day two. “I’m really happy with that, their main players are back in the pavilion,” he said. “Their captain is at the wicket. “If we can get another one or two wickets it’s all over.” Bandaratilleke said they would receive a boost in the coming weeks, with their two key batters, which includes, Praneeth Jayasundera, returning and re-joining the side. Finals would be a step further to Bandaratilleke aim of winning a premiership. The side finished ninth last season. “We need to get a premiership,” he said. “That is my big aim. Everyone here needs a championship as we haven’t won one in the last five years.” In other matches Donnybrook was bowled out for 183 against Wyndhamvale, with Gurwant Singh top scoring with 45 after coming in down the order. Wyndhamvale will resume at 1-27. In the senior division, Westmeadows is in trouble against Keilor. The Warriors were bowled out for 110, with the Blues 2-76 in reply. Clayton Campbell top scored for the Warriors with 40. Craigieburn will need a good day with the bat against Deer Park. The Eagles will resume 18 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 31 January, 2023

Semi finalists decided in T20 By Tara Murray

Lasanka Ananda. (Damjan Janevski) 202965_06

at 0-1 in reply to Deer Park’s 9-289. Waduwidanalage Rangika took four wickets for the Eagles. In division 2, Tullamarine is 0-23 in reply to St Francis de Sales 157. Gihan Kankanamge took five wickets for the Demons.

In division 3 the Greenvale Kangaroos are 0-17 in reply to Footscray United’s 8-328. Chathura Darshana took three wickets for the Kangaroos. In division 4, Roxburgh Park made 167 and now has Laverton at 4-45.

Bundoora Park’s Northern Region T20 title defence remains on track after winning through to the semi finals on Tuesday night. All four qualifying finals were able to get completed, despite heavy rain falling later in the night. The Thunderbolts made light work of Rivergum at Bundoora Park. The Thunderbolts made a massive 5-201 from their overs with Tarwan Rennie starring at the top of the order, making 67 off 37 balls. Nathan Fowler took two wickets for the Kookas. With skipper Matthew Perri gone early, the Kookas were behind the eight ball. They never looked close to getting the runs, finishing 8-105. Fowler backed up his performance with the ball, making 31 off 14 balls. Bundoora is also through to the semi finals after beating Riverside. Riverside made 5-148 from its overs Rubal Singh-Dhillon and Prince Singh took two wickets each for the Bulls. The Bulls top order came out swinging and it paid off as they chased down the runs with five overs to go. The Bulls finished 2-152 from their overs. Singh-Dhillon top scored with 52 not out off 29 balls, which included five fours and three sixes. North Eltham Wanderers ended Laurimar’s run. The Power made 8-171 from its overs, with Jonathon McAleer making 56 off 34 balls. The match went down to the wire with the Wanderers hitting the winning runs with one ball to spare. They finished 6-172. Andrew Crook took three wickets for the Power. Rosanna is also through to the next round having beaten Montmorency. Montmorency made 7-98 from its 20 overs. Rosanna hit the winning runs with 13 balls to spare, finishing 6-99. Nick Rowe finished with 37. The semi finals will be held on January 31. Bundoora Park will host Rosanna in one semi final and the North Eltham Wanderers will host Bundoora in the other semi final. The grand final will be held on February 14.

Bundoora adds more top end talent Bundoora has strengthened its side on and off the field in the Northern Football League division 1. Coming off a grand final appearance, the Bulls have looked to add some more experience to the team in the hope of going one better. Bulls coach Michael Ryan said it had been a productive off season for the club. “It’s been a good season and we’ve made some good acquisitions,” he said. “Joey Palazzolo returns, we’ve got Peter McEvoy, Ben McNiece and Lachlan East who have joined the club. “It’s been a quite positive off season and it bodes well for a good 2023.” Ryan said for the most part their recruiting had come through existing connections at the club. McEvoy, who has previously captained Coburg in the Victorian Football League, has retired from that level but is keen to keep playing at a lower level.

Having been aligned with the Bulls since 2019, he decided the Bulls was the perfect location to do that. McEvoy said adding East, a star in the competition, and former AFL-listed McNiece was icing on the cake. “We’ve been keen on Lachlan for the last couple of years,” he said. “He will fill a really great space for us. “Ben has really strong ties to Danny Younan from their time at Essendon. He committed just before Christmas which was really good.” Ryan said the biggest thing about their additions, that they were not only good footballers, but good people. He said they were keen to buy into the culture that had been set by the leaders, and also attract players to the club. The Bulls have lost a couple of key players. Kain Proctor, who was the side’s vice-captain last year, is playing football in the country, while Bailey Thompson is moving to Perth. Ryan said they had also lost a few other

players who had left in search of more senior opportunities. As well as the inclusions, Ryan said there was plenty of pressure for spots in the senior side. “The good thing for us is the reserves have won the last three premierships,” he said. “We’ve got some good kids in the under-19s and are putting pressure on to play senior football. “They’ve put a mountain of work in over the Christmas break.” Ryan said the group were using the disappointment of the grand final loss as motivation for this year. “We were clearly wounded early on,” he said. “We’ve put it to the back of our mind. “We’ll look to have a really strong pre-season post Christmas and then get into the practice matches and then in round one.” Tara Murray Ben McNiece (Supplied)

Tough day out for Roos By Tara Murray The Greenvale Kangaroos have a tough task on day two of their clash with Prahran in Victorian Premier Cricket. Day one of the match was all Prahran as it put itself in a winnable position, while the Kangaroos were left on the back foot. The Kangaroos won the toss and decided to send in Prahran at Greenvale Recreation Reserve. Prahran made a solid start and were well on top at 2-114. While it lost a few wickets the runs continued to pile on. Having already taken the score past 250, Prahran’s last partnership put on an unbeaten 36 for the final wicket. Prahran declared at 9-295 allowing the side to have a bowl at the end of the day. William Dundon took three wickets for the Kangaroos, while Nick McGuane and Michael Archer took two wickets each. The Kangaroos had six overs to survive at the end of day one. It would be six overs they would like to forget. Skipper Josh Trembearth was gone for a duck, with Connor Hayes and James Bracey soon back in the sheds with him. The Kangaroos will resume at 3-8 on day two. In women’s premier cricket, Plenty Valley’s finals hopes suffered a setback with a big loss to Essendon Maribyrnong Park on Sunday. The Bats were sent in and looked on track for a solid start when they were at 3-102. The wickets then started to fall as they lost 7-22 to be all out for 125. Nipuni Hansika top scored with 46 as just three batters scored double figures. Extras was the second highest scorer. The ladder leaders had no issue in chasing down the runs. The Bombers reached the score with more than half their overs left, finishing 1-128. Umasha Thimeshari finished with 1-14 off six overs. The Bats now sit in fifth spot, six points outside the top four. In women’s premier seconds, the Kangaroos had a tough day against Melbourne. Melbourne enjoyed being sent in at Beaumaris Secondary College, making the most of good conditions. The side made 4-245 from its 50 overs with Kamya Mishra top scoring with 144 not out. Bella Woods was the pick of the bowlers for the Kangaroos, taking 3-37 off her nine overs.

William Dundon

(Jacob Pattison)317173_04

The Kangaroos lost both openers when the score was on seven before a nice little partnership took the score to 2-44. The wickets then started falling. The Kangaroos were all out for 84 in the 38th over. Rebecca Lines and Lily Pelosi top scored with 19 each, but were the only batters to reach double figures.

Top of the table Melbourne earned a bonus point in the win. The Kangaroos sit in eighth spot with three wins in their first season in premier cricket. Plenty Valley suffered a big loss to Geelong in their match. Geelong made 168 before bowling Plenty Valley out for 95. The Bats sit bottom of the ladder.

Spotswood through to next round Jacana will face Sunbury as it aims to keeps its Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 campaign alive. The VTCA announced the next round of the competition which starts on February 2. Teams are in groups of four for this stage of the competition, with each match a knockout match. In region 1, Haig Fawker faces St Francis de Sales and Yarraville Club plays Point Cook. In region 2, Deer Park plays Sunshine and Sydenham-Hillside plays the Druids, while in region 3 its PEGS vs West Coburg and Jacana against Sunbury. In region 4, Sanctuary Lakes will play Maribyrnong Park St Marys and Werribee Centrals will host Gellibrand. Meanwhile, Spotswood is through to the next round of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association T20 competition after winning a thriller against Mt Waverley on Tuesday night. Just two of the four round three matches were completed on Tuesday night as heavy rain hit across Melbourne. The Woodsmen were too good for Mt Waverley at Donald McLean Reserve. Mt Waverley won the toss and decided to bat, making 8-126 from its 20 overs. Angus Roach top scored with 27, while Harvey Redpath took two wickets for the Woodsmen. The Woodsmen needed all of their 20 overs, finishing 2-130. Ross Horkings top scored, making 65 not out off 62 balls. Brighton is also through to the next round, having beaten Croydon. Brighton made 8-141 from its overs with Robert Salerni top scored with 43 not out. Croydon proved no match, bowled out for just 54. Darcy Kennelly took 4-10 for Brighton. Endeavour Hills and St Bernard’s OC’s match lasted just five overs when the rain hit. Endeavour Hills was 2-34 went the players left the field with the match later called off and declared a draw. Tuesday, 31 January, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 19

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