Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 28th February 2023 by Star Weekly

Established in 1981 as the

proudly serving Melton and Moorabool

28 FEBRUARY, 2023

12496404-AV22-21

FREE DIGITAL EDITION

SIG N U P N O W!

Compensation anger By Liam McNally with AAP A move to pay landowners $200,000 per square kilometre for energy infrastructure imposed on their properties has been labelled a slap in the face. Residents living in the path of several projects in regional Victoria have previously protested high-voltage power lines and towers more than 80 metres high and are calling for infrastructure to be placed underground instead. The projects are part of a wider move to shift the state to renewable energy as remaining coal-fired power stations are set to close over the next 12 years.

‘‘

Money won’t make us happy about it. It just seems to be a dinosaur - Emily Muir project

’’

The first residents to receive payments will be those impacted by VNI West, likely connecting Ballarat in central Victoria with Kerang in the north and across to NSW, and the Western Renewables Link corridor running from Sydenham to near Stawell in Western Victoria. The standard payments will be $8000 a year for 25 years for those with transmission easements on their land. Moorabool Central Highlands Power Alliance chair Emily Muir called the payments a “sweetener” and claimed they didn’t go far enough to compensate farmers. About one kilometre of the farm she lives on with her husband is likely to be impacted by the Western Renewables Link. Ms Muir said she wasn’t against renewable energy projects but believed power lines and towers on her property would impact farming by restricting weed spraying from a helicopter, stop the movement of certain machinery or stock and interrupt views. “I feel like it’s the government trying to get us over the line to agree to a project that we’ve been protesting against for two-and-a-half years,” she said. In 2022 protests against VNI West stepped up, with hundreds of farmers driving tractors

Barb Ford is one of the farmers who continue to battle against power lines being built on their properties. (Damjan Janevski) 242424_04

through Ballarat and another rally held outside Parliament House in Melbourne. Plumpton farmer Barb Ford said the proposed lines, along with five towers, cut diagonally through the centre of her property. “Money won’t make us happy about it,” she said. “It just seems to be a dinosaur project – renewable energy is something for the future but we all believe these huge overhead transmission lines are something that should be in the past, and we know that there is technology available for underground projects.

Ms Ford said the project will have a “huge impact going across the north of Melton”, affecting the airfield, pony club, and MacPherson Park. “It’s the scale of it, 80 metre high towers ... the top of the towers 20 metres higher than the top of Mt Kororoit.“ The projects are part of a move to guarantee energy stability across the east coast, with power generated in Victoria and NSW able to be transferred between states. “These new payments acknowledge the hugely important role landholders play in

hosting critical energy infrastructure – a key part of Victoria’s renewables revolution,” Victoria’s Energy and Resources Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said. “We want to get the process for planning and approving new infrastructure right, so we can make sure the renewables revolution is a shared, equitable legacy for all Victorians.” The Australian Energy Market Operator earlier this week warned the reliability of the grid would be in doubt over the next decade without urgent investments to replace coal plants.

We are OPEN for Take Away and Home Delivery Contactless delivery with Menulog, Doordash, Ubereats,Instore and La Porchetta online. Follow us on Social Media /LaPorchettaMelton /LaPorchettaMelton

Woodgrove Shopping Centre www.laporchetta.com Download our New iPhone or Android App 12505545-JW34-21

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

On Sale Wednesday 1st March until Tuesday 7th March 2023

BULK BUY SAVINGS!

$ Centurion Special White Flour 12.5kg

Australian Pork Shoulder Roast Bone In

SAVE $2

$1.44 per kg

5395

99 ea

$ Sunrice White Medium Grain Rice 10kg

1799 ea

SAVE $22.01

16¢ per 100g

Melton 331-345 High St, 9743 4600

24 pack

Corona or Crown Lager 24 Pack

Sunbury

Gisborne

Glengala

Delahey Supa Valu

Cnr Station & O’Shanassy, Cnr Brantome & Robertson, Cnr David Drive & Delahey Village Shopping Centre, 9744 4290 5428 3200 Fitzgerald Rd, 8390 6988 Taylors Rd, 9362 1207

Weekly specials available Wednesday 01/03/23 until Tuesday 07/03/23 or while stocks last. Pictures used for illustration purposes only. While stocks last. Retail quantities only. No trade supplied. All prices include GST where applicable. Some products or varieties may not be available at all stores. IGA Liquor supports the responsible service of alcohol. Tobacco and alcohol not sold to under 18’s. We reserve the right to correct printing errors. 12583452-ET09-23

2 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 February, 2023

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SECTION

made fresh in store!

1599

Chicken Drumsticks Marinated

Chicken Kiev

99 kg

Beef Shaslicks

Melton 9743 4600

Sunbury

Chicken Thigh Steak Marinated

Lamb Cutlets Crumbed

331-345 High St,

1699

99 kg

Gisborne

Glengala

Delahey Supa Valu

Cnr Station & O’Shanassy, Cnr Brantome & Robertson, Cnr David Drive & Delahey Village Shopping Centre, 5428 3200 9744 4290 Fitzgerald Rd, 8390 6988 Taylors Rd, 9362 1207

Specials available Wednesday 01/03/23 until Tuesday 07/03/23 or while stocks last. Pictures used for illustration purposes only. While stocks last. Retail quantities only. No trade supplied. All prices include GST where applicable. Some products or varieties may not be available at all stores. IGA Liquor supports the responsible service of alcohol. Tobacco and alcohol not sold to under 18’s. We reserve the right to correct printing errors.

IGAVI9118_010323

99 kg

12583453-AI09-23

Chicken Kebabs Marinated

Chicken Schnitzel Crumbed

99 kg

Tuesday, 28 February, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 3

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

High grassfire danger ‘right now’ As Moorabool and Melton fire authorities deal with a dangerous grassfire season, the Climate Council is warning Australians to prepare for “grass fires on a scale never-before experienced”. A new report from Climate Council and Emergency Leaders for Climate Action (ELCA), Powder Keg: Australia Primed to Burn warns that three years of La Niña have led to prolific vegetation growth, creating ‘powder keg’-like conditions for fires. Former Fire and Rescue NSW commissioner and ELCA founder Greg Mullins said that the new vegetation is now drying and turning into fuel as we experience hotter, drier conditions. “There is an increased risk this year of major

grass fires breaking out during hot, dry and windy weather across NSW, Queensland, Victoria, SA, and Western Australia up to and possibly including April,” he said. “All levels of government need to understand the escalating risk of devastating fires and ramp up preparedness now,” said Mr Mullins. Melton council operations manager Brandon Sell said council is aware spring conditions have increased grassfire risk in Melton, and council has been “working diligently with land managers to reduce this risk accordingly”. “Summer conditions have allowed council to get on top of the grass mowing issue and, over the last few months, we have prioritised roadsides that form a strategic fire break

and continue to manage our roadsides and undeveloped reserves to reduce our fire risk,” he said. Moorabool mayor Rod Ward urged residents to ensure all grass and vegetation around their property is maintained. “Council officers are still surveying the area and will take action on unmaintained properties,” he said. Australia’s most widespread grass fires on record followed a long La Niña in 1974 and 1975. So far this summer, there have been 15 grass fires across Melton and Moorabool, which is higher than the previous two years, but well below the 69 grass fires that occurred in the 2019 season.

CFA deputy chief officer Alen Slijepcevic said the highest danger period is “right now”, but was more measured about the threat level. “We have had a number of grass fires happening all around Victoria in the last couple of weeks in hot, dry, windy conditions,” he said. “The majority of the grass will be cut for hay as a lot of people have done, and the crops have been harvested which has reduced the fuel load and made the fires easier to suppress. People need to do what they should be doing in Victoria every year - have their plans ready, pay attention to warnings and agencies, download EmergencyVic app, and do some clean up around their properties.”

Regional arts opportunities

Bacchus Marsh Montessori Uniting Kindergarten students get ready to dig in. (Joe Mastroianni). 320525_07

Youngsters flip to make a difference Pancakes are a staple childhood favourite, and the children at Bacchus Marsh Montessori Uniting Kindergarten have been learning how to prepare the delicious dish while raising money for an important cause. Pancake Day, traditionally known as Shrove Tuesday, is last day before the start of Lent, a Christian period of fasting, prayer and reflection in the run-up to Easter. It references the old tradition of using up all the luxury goodies in the pantry, such as flour, butter and eggs, before the Lenten period of abstinence. For 21 years the Uniting Church of Victoria and Tasmania has been raising critical funds on the day through the sale of pancakes for their community services organisation Uniting

Vic.Tas. Bacchus Marsh Montessori Uniting Kindergarten got behind Pancake Day, which this year was on February 21, with an entire week of pancake-making. Kindergarten kids helped collect eggs from on-site chickens, measure ingredients, make batter, and cook (with adult supervision) yummy pancakes. The pancakes were then made available to students, staff and parents at pick-up time for a gold coin donation. By midweek, the kindergarten had already raised $250, and Montessori Uniting Kindergarten service leader Caroline Hay said the children, staff and families “all enjoyed preparing delicious pancakes and feeling good

about raising funds to help others”. “It was fantastic that we could feel a connection with the wider community,” she said. Uniting Vic.Tas chief executive Bronwyn Pike said since 2002, Uniting’s Pancake Day events have raised millions for Uniting’s community services which support some of the most vulnerable people across Victoria and Tasmania. “Whether it’s putting food on the table of a family in need, providing crisis accommodation or training new foster carers, you’re helping local people who need it the most,” she said.

An $8.5 million boost to the Regional Arts Fund is creating more opportunity for regional artists to get government funding for their projects, and grant applications are now open for Melton and Moorabool residents. The launch of the National Cultural Policy – Revive on Monday, January 30 announced an ongoing uplift to the Regional Arts Fund of $8.5 million over four years. This increased investment supports and promotes participation in, and access to, Australia’s arts and culture in regional, rural and remote Australia. Regional Arts Australia has managed the Regional Arts Fund for over 20 years, currently valued at $13m over four years, on behalf of the Australian government. The fund is an extensive national regional arts grants program, delivered in partnership with state and territory program administrators. Regional Arts Australia said that for many years, it has been, and continues to be, “one of the most successful avenues for delivering targeted programs, devised by, and meeting the needs of regional Australian communities”. Artists in Melton and Moorabool can currently access Project Grants through the Regional Arts Fund, as managed by Regional Arts Victoria. These grants provide up to $30,000 for individuals and organisations. Regional Arts Australia chair Dr Simon Spain said Regional Arts Australia and its state and territory members and partners have “significant experience“ in the management of arts-based programs in their regions. “With this additional investment, we will prioritise a program that will respond to the immediate needs of regional artists, organisations and communities across the country. In addition, these funds provide an opportunity to explore new ways to build a robust and sustainable regional arts sector for the future,” he said.

Liam McNally

Indoor pool at the top of Moorabool’s budget wish list As state and federal governments are busily putting together their annual budgets, Moorabool council is using the opportunity to advocate for key projects. Moorabool council said it is advocating “strongly” as it has “key priority” projects that can feed into both budgets. Council chief executive Derek Madden said an indoor pool to complete the Moorabool Aquatic and Recreation Centre is still at the top of the list. 4 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 February, 2023

“We continue to advocate strongly to the federal government to contribute their share of the indoor pool, which has already had funding committed from both council and the state government,” he said. “And with our growing population and recent floods and storms, road infrastructure will also feature very heavily in our advocacy work, ahead of the two budgets. “We regularly meet with state and federal representatives to put forward our projects,

and we encourage the community to contact our local members of parliament to lend your support for projects such as the pool and roads. “We’re very fortunate to have received funding from other levels of government, especially the state, in the past year or two and we can see that our advocacy work is coming to fruition, with many projects throughout the shire currently under construction or nearing completion.” Projects in Moorabool recently completed

or under construction include the Darley Park Pavilion, an indoor sports centre in Taverner Street, Bacchus Marsh, Ballan and Gordon skate parks, new and updated ovals and netball courts throughout the shire, works at Bacchus Marsh Racecourse Recreation Reserve, and Ballan library and community hub. Hawke MP Sam Rae said he “strongly supports” the Bacchus Marsh Pool and “will continue to work across all stakeholders to get it built”.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

for Park jet boat racing call Support young families Liam McNally A Melton V8 Superboat world champion is calling on council to “resurrect” the old jet boat racing course at MacPherson Park. The Harkness race track was formerly a yearly stop on the V8 Superboat Australian Championship, and even hosted the World Championships in 2009. The track has gone unused since Peter Freckleton’s Melton Jet Sprint’s lease ended in 2014. Local V8 Superboat racer and current world champion Phonsy Mullan is calling for the boat track to be revived and used for its original purpose. “I would like to make the track at MacPherson Park available on a lease, to be able to have a social club where people could come and race,” he said. “Currently the track is an eyesore and a waste for the shire and the residents. Getting the track back on national circuits would bring value to the shire and its residents. “We also have a huge presence with four local drivers dominating the [sport] … The sport has a huge following, we are currently seeing a rapid growth of exposure through Foxtel, Kayo, and now 7mate has picked us up.” In November 2017, Melton council released the MacPherson Park Recreation Reserve Future Directions Paper, which suggested the former jet boat racing circuit be removed in order to establish a “new large scale, flexible, outdoor events space for the City of Melton”. The document described the project as a “significant and costly undertaking,” with an estimated cost of $1 million and assigned it a “medium” priority level. More than five years later, the old boat track

Phonsy Mullan at the old v8 boat race track in Macpherson Park. (Damjan Janevski) 320842_01

remains and Mr Mullan believes reviving it for its original purpose would be a much less costly project than an outdoor event space. While Melton mayor Lara Carli said no “formal proposal“ has been brought to council, Mr Mullan said he has liaised with council twice before about the idea without it progressing.

“This particular part of MacPherson Park has not been used for some time and the site requires significant rehabilitation in line with the environment overlay,” Cr Carli said. Council also said if it is provided a detailed proposal about intended use for the site for and how it would be managed then council would consider all the existing constraints of the site in its response.

To help support all families with young children in the City of Melton, council has expanded its free Parent Education Program with more groups, sessions and locations for 2023. Under the program, parent group educators will provide the educational component that families would usually receive at the key age and stage visits through the Maternal and Child Health service. The program also gives parents an opportunity to ask questions, hear from other parents and get information and support. Families can choose from the following free groups: • Development at four months • Development at eight months • Development at 12 months • Development at 18 months • Development at two years • Development at three and a half years • Infant program • Managing challenging behaviour • Toddler play and development • Toddler nutrition and fussy eating • Toilet training Melton mayor Lara Carli said “The first few years of a child’s life are a big learning journey for parents and carers and we’re doing what we can to answer questions and help everyone feel supported”. “Please remember, we’re also continuing to offer a range of other support services such as lactation support and first-time parent groups.”

NOTIFICATION OF CHANGES TO BIN COLLECTION SCHEDULE IN SOME AREAS

TODAY Due to high growth within the City of Melton, some households will experience changes to their bin collection schedule from Monday 6 March.

Further information If you have any questions or require further information, please call 9791 9948.

12483039-SN08-21

Affected households should have received a letter in the mail outlining their new collection details and changeover week information.

If you haven’t received a letter and want to check if your household bin collection schedule is affected, visit melton.vic.gov.au/binchanges

kidswest 12591672-KG09-23

Tuesday, 28 February, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 5

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU Briefs

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Algal bloom Melton council is urging the public to avoid contact with the water in Lake Caroline due to a blue-green algal bloom. Testing has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae and council has installed warning signs advising people of the risks associated with the algal bloom. Council will increase monitoring of Lake Caroline and conduct regular water tests.

PHONE \ 03 8318 5777 LOCATION \ Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 DISTRIBUTION \ 1300 656 678 distribution@fermax.com.au

ADVERTISING GENERAL SALES INQUIRIES westads@starweekly.com.au CLASSIFIEDS \ 1300 666 808 EMAIL \ sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

GENERAL REAL ESTATE INQUIRIES reads@starweekly.com.au

EDITORIAL GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES westeditorial@starweekly.com.au COMMUNITY CALENDAR ENTRIES communitycalendar@starweekly.com.au

Published by MMP Star Pty Ltd ACN 168 220 399 Head Office Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas All material is copyright to MMP Star Pty Ltd. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Paul Thomas. All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit starweekly.com.au

Stolen car dumped

Kristen Catalano and her son Noah. (Damjan Janevski) 320797_02

Little Noah needs help A Melton family is calling on the community for support to purchase life changing equipment for their 14-month-old son who was born with a genetic condition so rare it is still unnamed. Kristen Katalano’s son, Noah, was born at Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital at just 2345 grams. He was not breathing initially, and spent the first 18 days of his life in the special care nursery. In the nursery Noah was diagnosed with a range of abnormalities including a slightly underdeveloped cerebellum which caused Noah to have hypotonia (low muscle tone). Ms Katalono said that despite all the challenges he is a “healthy, happy little boy and that’s all we could have asked for”. Noah’s low muscle tone has impacted his development from being unable to sit unsupported to requiring a nasogastric tube for feeding.

Ms Katalano said Noah’s size at 14 months makes it hard to get any disability specific items for him as he is still only the size of a five-month-old baby. “Noah wants to be doing age-appropriate things like sitting up right in the bath, standing up to play, eating a variety of foods amongst everything else a 14-month-old should be doing,” she said. The Katalanos have set up a GoFundMe to ask for support in purchasing equipment NDIS can’t cover to assist Noah’s movement as he develops, including a blender that will blitz food to a safe consistency, a pram that has postural and trunk support, a postural seat and bath seat, and a standing frame. “We’ll be forever grateful for any small donation to help Noah grow. It will just mean that he can explore his world and develop much faster,” Ms Katalano said. Details: https://tinyurl.com/ta4tp82r

Police have arrested three people including a 17 year-old Harkness girl after an allegedly stolen car was dumped in Hoppers Crossing on Wednesday evening. Officers first saw the vehicle driving along Bulban Road, Werribee, about 9.35pm. They attempted to intercept the car but it sped off on them. The Air Wing was called in and it tracked the car to McKellar Avenue, Hoppers Crossing where the car was dumped. Police said four females ran from the vehicle and police swarmed the area. Three females were arrested. A 17-year-old girl from Harkness has been charged with theft of motor vehicle and released on bail. A 17-year-old Werribee girl was charged with theft of motor vehicle and will appear at a children’s court at a later date. A 20-year-old Kangaroo Flat woman was charged with theft of motor vehicle. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Order online now!

Toys and Costumes aussietoysonline.com.au 12592273-JC09-23

6 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 February, 2023

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Book a family violence resource By Fatima Halloum It’s not every day a young boy from the western suburbs gets to spend the afternoon away from school, celebrating the launch of his very own book. But for nine-year-old Aryan, the achievement is incredibly bittersweet. Following his parents’ separation last year, Aryan began seeing GenWest child and youth counsellor Elly, who would visit his school every Wednesday to help Aryan cope with the ongoing impacts of family violence. “We prioritise creative arts therapies methods, for a number of reasons,“ Elly said. “Kids might be at a developmental stage where simply talking about their experiences is

not particularly helpful or meaningful. “So we draw on a range of modalities and do a lot of play, art and music, and we’re passionate about the role of creativity in highlighting kids’ resources.” Very early on, Elly noticed that Aryan found it difficult to discuss his experience of family violence and the young boy felt very protective of his dad. “Alongside that, he was a highly creative child who loved drawing, loved writing stories,” Elly said. “He and I talked about how powerful it was for children with difficult experiences in childhood, [to have] resources that were written by other people who had gone through complex experiences.

“I asked him, ’would you one day like to create something that could be used for other kids going through family violence?’ and he said ’yes’, so immediately we began working on this book.” The story is titled ‘The Puppy’s Life’, and in the preamble Aryan writes, “Aryan wrote this book because he wanted to show other kids that it’s OK to talk about family violence. And other kids also experience it.” The book follows the life of a puppy, struggling with the complex emotions and questions that arise when parents separate due to family violence. “When the puppy would hear his parents barking, it felt like thousands of animals in a

stampede,” Aryan wrote in his book. “The puppy couldn’t make the stampede stop, he felt like he was lost in the middle.” The pictures of the puppy decorating the pages of the book were also hand-drawn by Aryan. “He illustrates very easily, he did like 10 or so pages in one session, and then we spent a lot of time finetuning the book itself and thinking about how he’d like for the book to be used,” Elly said. “A message we particularly wanted the book to communicate was that ’all feelings are okay’, and that it is a really complicated experience going through family violence .. it is a rollercoaster. “

Couple say ‘I do’ again A Melton South couple, married for 61 years, celebrated the week of Valentine’s Day by re-declaring their love at a Melton South residential aged care facility. John and Jacqueline Lauder met 71 years ago learning to tap dance when they were just five and three years old. Their mothers became friends, and so the two grew up close, eventually beginning to date at ages 17 and 15. John eventually proposed to Jacqui and on John’s 21st birthday, they announced their engagement to their family and friends. They got married the year after on November 25, 1961. More than 60 years later, they have two children, a son and daughter, six grandchildren and a step grandchild, and one great grandchild with another on the way.

FB : thehothouseproject

Mrs Lauder said their re-marriage on February 17 was “lovely”. Estia Health in Melton South was decorated red and white, including the staff, and speeches were given before the couple said “I do” for the second time. “It was surprising how many of the staff and residents were there … they’re still talking about it,” Ms Lauder said. “It was very sweet.” On their 60th anniversary their effort was recognised with a letter from the late Queen. The secret ingredients to a long marriage, according to the couple, are being the best friends, honesty, maintaining a great sense of humour, and showing consideration for each other. Liam McNally

John and Jacqueline Lauder celebrated their love with a marriage renewal after 61 years together.

W : melton.vic.gov.au/hothouse

12591674-AI09-23

Tuesday, 28 February, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 7

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Residents get ready to clean up Melton and Moorabool residents are being encouraged to take positive action on their local environment for Clean up Australia Day on March 5, with more than 30 events registered across the two municipalities. Friends of Hopetoun Park and Parwan Gorge (FOHPAPG) are getting into the action early by hosting an event on March 4. At 9.30am volunteers are encouraged to meet at Hammond Circuit reserve next to the playground, where they will focus on cleaning rubbish in Hopetoun Park and along Hopetoun road.

FOHAPG president Joanne I’Anson said while they are fortunate to have not seen too much rubbish-dumping in the area this year, they want to ensure the prominent gateway to Moorabool shire is looking pristine. “We’re strong advocates for clean up Australia day, it’s a really good opportunity to get to know your neighbours, roll up your sleeves, and feel like you’re contributing something positive by making a difference together,” she said. FOHAPG’s event will be followed by a free sausage sizzle at the reserve at 12.30pm.

Volunteers of all ages are welcome to FOHAPG’s event, but roadside cleaners will be required to be over the age of 15 and wear provided hi-vis. Clean Up Australia chair Pip Kiernan said Clean Up Australia Day is especially important in 2023 because “our environment is facing pressure unlike ever before”. “As all Australians know, over the past two years, we’ve seen severe bushfires, cyclones and floods, and increased pressures on our biodiversity and an ever-growing volume of waste which leaks into our natural and marine

environment,” she said. “Australians tell us every day that they are concerned about the world we live in but often feel frustrated and unsure how to make a positive impact. Clean Up Australia Day is a great opportunity to work together and take practical action. We seek the support of all Australians. Together we can all make a real difference.” Details: https://www.facebook. com/FOHPAPG or https://www. cleanupaustraliaday.org.au/join-a-clean-up

Free health sessions A chance to tackle mental health through education, physical activity, and community is being offered to men in the Melton area through the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation (WBCF) Sons of the West program. The free 10-week course is being offered at two locations within the Melton municipality, with weekly sessions that focus on mental health improvement, community, and physical activity. During the sessions, participants will first have the chance to connect with different health experts each week, on topics including mental health, nutrition, fitness, and gender equity, before having time to meet and connect with other participants. The later half of the sessions will be based around physical activity, with exercise physiologists, personal trainers, and exercise science students leading programs tailored to different levels of ability. There’ll also be Mental health support

available each week from provisional psychologists to “lend an ear and check in on how people are going”. WBCF senior health promotion coordinator Naomi Fitzgerald said the program is built on the idea that “a great way to bring men together is through the power of sport”. “The crux of the program is to really empower our participants and help them along their health and wellbeing journey, and create a space where they feel comfortable to connect with one another as well,” she said. The free sessions will be held at Cobblebank on Tuesdays from 10am to noon, beginning March 7, and Fraser Rise on Wednesdays from 6.30pm to 8pm, beginning March 8. Registration is available now on the Western Bulldogs website. Details: https://www.westernbulldogs.com. au/foundation/programs/sons-of-the-west Liam McNally

Luna Folly and Rhys Contessa. (Supplied)

Festival super heroes appear Residents and visitors to Ballan may have spotted some interesting characters outside the Ballan Post Office this week. They’re the super heroes of the upcoming Ballan Autumn Festival by local artist Lou Callow. The four heroes of the festival are crafted from upcycled materials and represent different aspects of Ballan - the Earth Healer, the Wildlife Warrior, The Extinguisher, and The Negotiator. After the Spring Back Festival in November, The Ballan Autumn Festival is returning to the season of its namesake for the first time since COVID. The free event on March 19 offers festival goers a Superhero-themed event, featuring the live music, a wood chop event, art, food, and more. The pet show is also back, with the crowd-favourite “pet that looks most like its owner” prize. The main event as always is the Grand Parade, with a huge range of fantastic floats from various community groups.

Subscribe to the

Melton Moorabool Star Weekly

Digital Edition

FREE FEBRUARY 2, 2021 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

12477071-CG03-21

FEBRUARY 2, 2021 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Pricing under the pump

Pricing under the pump By Benjamin Millar

‘‘

strongly encourage residents to complain to the ACCC

’’

- Steve McGhie

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

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

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

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

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

12481545-NG07-21

By Benjamin Millar

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

Guests are invited to dress as their favourite super heroes, or invent their own to go in the running for special prizes. Ballan Autumn Festival Association president Kevin Harper said the event is a “fun day out that offers something for everyone”. “The autumn festival is about uniting various organisations, groups, associations, and traders within Ballan to celebrate what’s good about Ballan,” he said. Mr Harper the festival is also seeking additional business sponsors, committee members, and volunteers this year, as the festival is still getting back to full force in a tightening economy post-COVID. “It’s difficult for everybody with increasing costs… businesses and individuals are doing it tough, but this festival is a chance to celebrate what’s good about life and good about community,” he said. Details: https://ballanautumnfestival.com. au/273-2/

Scan this QR code to subscribe Or visit meltonmoorabool.starweekly.com.au/subscribe 8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 February, 2023

Autumn festival sculptures at the Ballan Post Office. (Joe Mastroianni) 318997_03

Liam McNally

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

Advertising feature

Standing together for Melton’s healthcare heroes Melton, have you noticed how the community is booming? Since Shine Lawyers became a local in the area, legal practice manager Deniz Mirik has noticed the suburb is full of diversity and opportunities. Shine Lawyers recently opened its doors to Melton and Ms Mirik said she feels very lucky to be surrounded by like-minded people in the Woodgrove Shopping Centre. With so many healthcare workers calling Melton home, it’s quickly becoming a hub for top-notch medical services, and with the new $900 million hospital set to open its doors in 2029, Ms Mirik believes the future looks bright. “But, after the gruelling three years of the pandemic, our healthcare heroes are in need of some extra support. The demands on our doctors, nurses, and carers have never been greater, and – unfortunately – this has resulted in increased workplace injuries, both physical and psychological,” she said. “According to WorkSafe Victoria, nurses, midwives, and aged care workers are at risk of injury from lifting patients, handling equipment, slip and falls, bullying, and even violence. Back and shoulder injuries are all too common for these hardworking individuals. Not only does this impact their ability to earn a living, but it can also take a toll on their overall quality of life. “Post-traumatic stress disorder is a psychological injury affecting 13 per cent of nurses, midwives, and carers, often due to burnout, sexual harassment, bullying, or trauma.” If you or someone you know has been injured at work, know that help is available. Seeking independent legal advice is crucial, as you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Deniz Mirik (right) and her team at Shine Lawyers Melton. (Supplied)

At Shine Lawyers, they believe an injury sustained at work shouldn’t cost you financially.

“We’re here to help you on the road to recovery, and – as Melton grows – let’s stand together and look out for one another,” Ms

Mirik said. Visit the team at shop R33 Woodgrove Shopping Centre, Melton.

Here in Melton, ready to help. Injured at work or in a road accident? You may be entitled to claim compensation. We offer No Win No Fee* & an obligation-free legal consult.

*Conditions apply

Shop R33, Woodgrove Shopping Centre 12587266-JC09-23

Tuesday, 28 February, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 9

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

28 February 2023

STAY INFORMED

Mayor’s message Cr Lara Carli

Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

Last week I had the pleasure of attending a particularly exciting event, with the Melton Specialist School opening its very own Mini Woolies. It’s a wonderful asset for the City of Melton and is a fantastic initiative that provides hands on learning where students can develop practical work skills like scanning, bagging groceries, handling money and customer service. Congratulations on a project that will make an important difference to some young people in Melton. On Friday, Council unveiled a new public artwork at The Avenue Park in Caroline Springs. Titled Second Nature, the sculpture plays on the theme of growth and will provide a place of shelter and play at the heart of the park. I’d like to thank all the people who contributed to this project at the community arts workshops - your drawings have been etched in the pathways leading to the sculptural landmark in the centre of the playground. This artwork represents what it is to grow together as a community and as a city and I look forward to seeing our residents young and old enjoy this piece of art. There are also a number of opportunities to have your say on various plans across the city, including a discussion paper on the revitalisation of the Melton Town Centre, and the CCTV cameras at Lake Caroline. I’d encourage you to visit conversations.melton.vic. gov.au and tell us what you think. Feel free to contact me about Watts Ward or Council related issues on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au or visit my Facebook page at: facebook.com/Cr.LaraCarli

Free! Learn how to use technology

Join a free parent group Parents of babies and toddlers, join us as at a free, in person or online, parent group.

Do you want to learn how to use your computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone, or how to connect on Zoom or Facebook? Join us at Council’s Getting Connected sessions where you can ask a digital mentor your questions and learn the specific things you need to know. Visit meltonlearning.com.au or call us on 9747 5935.

If you want to know if your child is reaching their milestones, wonder about your toddler’s behaviour, are looking for new play ideas, need help with fussy eating or are ready to toilet train, we can provide information and support. Led by our Parent Group Educators these face-to-face and online sessions provide lots of opportunity to hear from other parents and ask questions. There are a range of sessions to choose from including night, weekend and online sessions.

Book online: melton.vic.gov.au/ParentGroups

Funding bid for City of Melton’s future

Watts Ward with Cr Justine Farrugia I am delighted to present my first Ward Talk after being sworn in as Watts Ward Councillor late last month. As a local resident of nine years, I hope to bring a fresh, youthful perspective to Council and will strive to represent the many members in the community who, like myself, have young, growing families. I am passionate about advocating for better transport infrastructure to ease congestion on our major roads. This includes Taylors Road (Caroline Springs), and Hume Drive (Taylors Hill) – both important links for commuters within our City, The Taylors Road Corridor Upgrade Plan includes a suite of projects designed to improve road connectivity and safety, including signalisation of the intersection at Taylors and Gourlay Roads. Currently in the design phase, you can visit melton.vic.gov.au/

taylorsroadupgrade for more information about this important road infrastructure project. The duplication of Hume Drive, between Gourlay Road and Calder Park Drive, will increase the existing two lanes to four, greatly improving traffic flow along Hume Drive and enhancing safety for all road users. You can visit conversations.melton. vic.gov.au/humedrive for more information. I’m also keen to see more, fit-forpurpose play spaces for children that encourage sensory play; and am committed to advocating for more green spaces to cater for our City’s fast-growing population. I look forward to working with my fellow Councillors to deliver on this for our community. Feel free to contact me about Watts Ward or Council related issues on 0475 907 616 or email at justine.farrugia@melton.vic.gov.au

A new plan for our future, with more jobs, better infrastructure and investing in our young people’s education is at the centre of the Melton City Council’s bid for Federal Government funding. We’ve made a submission for the 2023-24 federal budget seeking funding for Council’s key priorities like building the Outer Metropolitan Rail and Road Ring, a new freight terminal, skills and training through TAFE and a university, electrifying and upgrading the rail network, and upgrading the Western Highway. Together, these projects would connect residents with more employment precincts, enhance the local economy, create local jobs, and increase employment opportunities. You can read the full budget submission at: melton.vic.gov.au/ federalbudget

Your Councillors – Visit melton.vic.gov.au/councillors to find your ward Councillors and their contact details

Mayor Cr Lara Carli

Deputy Mayor Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Justine Farrugia

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Kathy Majdlik

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all 12587363-KG09-23

10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 February, 2023

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Call for cashless gaming cards By Elsie Langie and Liam McNally The state government is facing pressure from advocates who say cashless cards for electronic gaming machines (EGMs) would benefit people in “vulnerable” areas, like the west and north of Melbourne. The push from the Alliance for Gambling Reform (AGR) follows an announcement from New South Wales Premier Dominic Perrottet that all pubs and clubs in the state must introduce cashless gaming systems across all poker machines by 2028.

More than $45 million was spent on pokies in Melton between July and December last year, which is an increase of more than $4.5 million on the six months prior, and makes Melton the 10th highest spending municipality in Victoria. Moorabool spent over $7.5 million in the same period, and increased by more than $1 million. In Victoria, cashless EGMs have been implemented at Crown Casino, but those machines only account for about 10 per cent of the state’s total poker machines. Melton council city life director Troy Scoble said council is “supportive of Victorian

government reforms to reduce gambling related harm in the community”. “Council has committed to addressing gambling related harms for individuals and the community through a range of harm prevention and reduction strategies,” he said. “Council participates in local government working groups to advocate for regulatory reform to reduce harm from gambling, with a focus on the frequency of gambling consumption and expenditure.” Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Minister Melissa Horne said the government

had overhauled how it regulated the gambling industry with the new Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission. The commission has oversight of all gambling activities in the state from pubs and clubs to the casino, with harm minimisation a central part of its focus. “We will continue to monitor the harm minimisation arrangements for hotels and clubs across the state to ensure we have the appropriate regulatory settings and reserve the right to make further changes,” Ms Horne said.

Testing ways to reuse A couple from Melbourne’s north-west who are on the forefront of Australia’s “right to repair” movement have launched a new Facebook group to test a new way to address electrical waste and promote recycling. Karen and Danny Ellis are self-described “travelling tinkerers” behind Mend It, Australia. The pair has been travelling to community repair events around Victoria to volunteer their skills since 2017. Now, they have started a Facebook group, Electronic/Electrical Giveaway Group – Hume, Melton and Wyndham, which allows people to claim, and give away electronic and electrical appliances and parts for free. For more than a decade, the couple have been vocal advocates for the right to repair, a movement that advocates for legislation that prevents manufacturers imposing barriers that deny consumers the ability to repair and modify consumer products, especially in the electronics and electrical industry.

Ms Ellis, who is also on the steering committee of Griffith University’s Australian Repair Network, said the inspiration for the new group came after being prevented from accessing piles of e-waste she saw at local recycling facilities. “It was a real concern knowing it would all be shredded,” she said. “There’s certainly a big need for all these parts that you can’t get these days unless you go cannibalising [items]. “Manufacturers, even if they make these parts they don’t want to sell them to you, they want you to buy new.” Details: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ eitems Liam McNally

Karen and Danny Ellis mending an old TV. (Supplied)

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

REQUIRED

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms. Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future. The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark salescareers@starnewsgroup.com.au

12570945-JC40-22

Tuesday, 28 February, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Noah challenges expectations Noah Barlow is determined to speak up for young people with disabilities and make sure they are seen and heard. Liam McNally spoke with Moorabool’s remarkable Young Citizen of the Year.

“I

feel it is time for everyone to lift our expectations of what we think people with a disability can do, because it’s always more than you think.” This was 12-year-old Noah Barlow’s call to action as he addressed an audience of community members, councillors, as well as state and federal MPs during his speech accepting the Moorabool Young Citizen of the Year Award on January 26. Noah said he “can’t even describe” how “awesome it felt to be recognised”. “But, I feel like we’re just getting started. There’s so much more we can do as a community to make things better for people with disabilities,” he said. In his speech Noah said he finds himself being “underestimated a lot of the time”, that people “see the wheels and think that I can’t do”. It doesn’t take much interacting with Noah to know that he is not to be underestimated.

‘‘

Different just means we have to find our own way and as a community we can do even more to include people with disabilities in the conversation ... nothing about us without us

’’

- Noah Barlow A quick conversation demonstrates more energy, intelligence, and cheek than the majority of 12 year olds in their first year of high school, along with the self assuredness of someone who has had to “fight for, or find a way to do things differently that most people take for granted”. Some of his favourite things are Star Wars, LEGO and playing junior wheelchair AFL and basketball, but Noah has also grown up with what he called “a whole list of upgrades” – autism, ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette syndrome and “the big one”, Mitochondrial disease. When he was seven Noah was diagnosed with Mitochondrial disease complex 1, a rare genetic disorder that robs the body’s cells of energy. The diagnosis came with a life expectancy of just 10 years. The diagnosis hasn’t prevented the Bacchus Marsh boy from achieving more in his 12 years than most people do in a lifetime. Noah pours energy into projects that help others. He is the captain of Noah’s Ninja’s, a group of 68 locals, but nationally is 791 ninjas strong, who have raised more than $236,000 for the Mito Foundation through The Bloody Long Walk. He is the co-founder of Voices Podcast, in which children tell stories for other children in hospital so no child is left without a bedtime story. He has contributed to a book by television and radio personality Melissa Doyle, 15 Seconds of Brave: The Wisdom of Survivors, and has authored his own children’s book, Beryl the Ninja Chicken. Noah said that in all his endeavours, he wants to “help other kids like me to know that we can do anything with the right support.” Noah’s mother, Kat Barlow noticed his altruistic tendencies from a young age. “Noah was about five years old when he talked to another little kid, a stranger in a waiting room, there having an X-ray,” Ms Barlow remembered.

Noah Barlow at his family’s farm in Bacchus Marsh. (Damjan Janevski) 319845_05 Inset: Noah receiving his Moorabool Young Citizen of the Year award from Hawke MP Sam Rae (left) and Moorabool mayor Rod Ward. (Supplied)

“She went from being very upset to cruising into the room to take her ‘inside out photos’. “Having been through so much, he didn’t think twice about helping others and he never has.” Noah was also instrumental in setting up the first ever junior wheelchair AFL team, which began with a school assignment. At 10 years old, he and his classmates were assigned to write exposition pieces on why kids should play sports. Noah decided to write his on why “every child” should be able to play sport. In his exposition, Noah implored the AFL to set up a junior branch of the Victorian Wheelchair Football League (VWFL) that operates in the same way as Auskick, highlighting that 4.5 per cent, or 211,200 children in Australia have a disability. “That’s a lot of kids who don’t have the same access to sport as ordinary kids,” he said. “I wanted to be able to play in a kids’ team,

12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 February, 2023

just like my mates do.” The article was posted on social media where it garnered a great deal of attention, including from Chris Henderson who plays for the Richmond wheelchair team. Last year, the AFL junior wheelchair league played its first season, in which Noah won the grand final for the Richmond Tigers. “It was exhilarating,” Noah said, “I loved it.” Noah was awarded the 2022 Robert-Rose foundation VWFL development medal for his efforts, and was invited to the Brownlow to receive his award. As resilient as Noah appears he concedes that living with mito “is very hard at times”. Late last year, Noah suffered his ninth stroke, which damaged his spinal cord, leaving him permanently using a wheelchair he previously only needed periodically. In the face of setbacks like this, Noah said he “just gets on with [his] life”. One of Noah’s biggest frustrations though, is living in a world he feels hasn’t been designed with people like him in mind. Ms Barlow said that in our society people “say a lot without actually saying anything” about people with disabilities. She gave examples of seeing places without ramps like schools or even the floor of parliament.

“If you don’t build a ramp, there’s an expectation that there’ll be no disabled people in that role,” she said. Since his award, Noah and his mum have been liaising with council, working towards making it more accessible for everyone. “They’ve been awesome,” Noah said, “They’ve always had great intentions.” Moorabool council community strengthening general manager Leigh McCallum said officers from the community development team met with the Barlow family recently to gain feedback on making events, programs, and public spaces more inclusive and accessible for people with disability. “Noah Barlow is an inspirational young person, and council is keen to look at opportunities for Noah to be involved in our planning for all abilities, particularly in his role as Young Citizen of the Year,” he said. Noah closed his Young Citizen of the Year speech by stating that “finding another way does make us different but different doesn’t mean we are less.” “Different just means we have to find our own way and as a community we can do even more to include people with disabilities in the conversation about how we can make sure everyone matters. Nothing about us without us,” he said. “Thank you to everyone who sees me for who I am, thank you to all those who keep helping people who are different and awesome. Thank you for this amazing award and I hope to keep working with Moorabool to make things even better for everyone.”

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMENT

Navigating new health services By Christopher Carter, chief executive, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network

GPRCs and PPCCs make it easier to access healthcare. (iStock)

and telehealth assessment, full respiratory testing, and immediate treatment. If you are confirmed as having COVID-19,

GPRC doctors can prescribe antiviral medications (if you meet the guidelines). This is really valuable, because for the antivirals to

12544962-AV15-22

You may have noticed that it’s become harder to see a GP quickly in recent times, especially if you don’t have a regular doctor who knows you. Over the past year or so there have been new government-funded centres or clinics opening across our region to help everyone get the care they need, and that’s a good thing. What’s not so good, though, is that these new places have long names and it’s easy to get confused about what they do and when you should visit them or whether you should wait to see your regular GP. So let’s see if we can sort things out. There are some facilities called General Practice Respiratory Clinics or GPRCs dotted about the place – 15 of them in our western and northern suburbs. They are different from Priority Primary Care Centres, or PPCCs. There are five PPCCs in our region, with another three opening soon Before we get onto the differences between them, let’s look at what they have in common. The main quality they share is that they make it much easier for you or your family to seek and receive medical treatment. They are there to save you waiting days for an appointment with your GP, or hours at a hospital emergency department. GPRCs and PPCCs are open extended hours, you don’t need to book an appointment, and all treatments are free – even if you don’t have a Medicare card. So, which one should you go to for what? If you have mild respiratory symptoms and you need to see a GP or nurse, then a GPRC is the best place to go. They provide face-to-face

work it’s essential that you start taking them within a day or two of symptoms developing. PPCCs are there to treat serious, but nonlife-threatening, injuries or illnesses. These might be, for instance, suspected fractures and sprains, cuts, burns, mild to moderate infections, fevers, back pain, rashes or mild to moderate asthma attacks. PPCCs are staffed by GPs and nurses who specialise in urgent care. They will be able to treat you within a short period after you arrive – much faster than the heroic but overworked staff at your nearest emergency department, who have to deal with life-threatening cases first. Of course, if you turn out to be a lot sicker than you thought, every PPCC is in direct communication with a hospital and with Ambulance Victoria, so they can transfer you to higher levels of care very easily. PPCCs are also next to, or very nearby, all the other services you may need – such as x-rays and pathology – and will make sure you’re well looked after. The five priority primary care centres in our region are in Craigieburn, Maribyrnong, Moonee Ponds, Sunshine and Werribee. For more details, go to NWMPHN’s website: nwmphn.org.au/ppcc You can also to our website to find your nearest GPRC: www.nwmphn.org.au/gprcs Remember, too, that these are not your only options. If you’re stuck at home and you need to talk to a doctor urgently, you can also contact the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department at vved.org.au or, if you’re not sure what type of care you need, call Nurse-on-Call any time on 1300 60 60 24. And, even when you’re feeling well, it’s important to book in with your regular GP for check-ups and non-urgent health matters. I hope that helps!

Tuesday, 28 February, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

The competition featured boats that can travel over 130 miles and hour. 320719_02

Entry to watch the race was free. 320719_04

Knot a bad day for superboats Crowds gathered along the marina at Wyndham Harbour to watch glimpes of the boats zoom by as they participated in round one the Offshore Superboat Championships on Saturday, February 25. Star Weekly photographer Jacob Pattison captured the action.

Round two of the competition will be held in Geelong this March. 320719_03

The competition featured racers from all across the country. 320719_06

Crowds gathered to watch the race. 320719_01

Attendees could also enjoy face painting, mini-golf and live music. 320719_11

The championships were held across two days, on Saturday and Sunday February 25 and 26. 320719_07

14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 February, 2023

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Scotty So, who is part of an exhibition in Footscray. (Damjan Janevski) 320321_01

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

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

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park

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

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

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club

Melton Cycling Club

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

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

Melton Friendship Group

beginners cake decorating at the centre. 6-8pm Thursdays, March 16-30. Cost: $110/$105 concession. ■ 9747 8576

book group, Australian history and a gentle exercise class for those 55 and over who are retired or semi-retired who wish to stay mentally and physically active. ■ 0419 563 016

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

U3A Melton U3A Melton offers among its activities a

Build on your existing cake decorating skills and learn all about fondant work, piping and sugar craft in Melton South Community Centre’s upcoming intermediate cake cecorating course. This three-week course is ideal for people with some decorating experience or who have completed

)

(iS

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

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

Melton South Knit & Natter

Manicure classes

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

Learn popular SNS-style manicure techniques in Melton South Community Centre’s term one dip powder nails workshop, scheduled for Sunday, April 2. Topics covered include natural nail and tip application, nail repair, refills, removals and jewel nail art. Materials are included and students receive a certificate of participation. Cots: $150/$145 concession. . ■ 9747 8576

Melton city Badminton Club

Cake decorating Zonta club meets

Rotary Club of Melton

For Women – Women’s Social Badminton, Thursdays 6-7pm, Cobblebank Indoor Stadium, $3 per session. For Children – Shuttle Smash (Ages 5-12), Fridays 6-7.30pm Cobblebank Indoor Stadium, $60 per Term For Everyone – Social Badminton Open, Thursdays 7-9.30PM Sundays noon-2pm Cobblebank Stadium ■ 0466 124 913 or info@meltonbadminton.com.au Tuesday, 28 February, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15

PUZZLES QUICK CROSSWORD

No. 122

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.

easy

4 3 8 2 6 3 7 3 1 2 6 2 4 5 7 5 7 8 1 2 6 4 1 7 3 1 5 8 2 7 9

6 7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23 25 26

DOWN Ninth month (abb) (4) Examiner (9) Small inlet (5)

1 2 3

DECODER

No. 122

4 5 1 5 4 1 6 1 9 7 2 6 8 9 5 8 7 3 9 2 5 6 1 hard

6 9

10 11 12 13

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: 16 words: Good 24 words: Very good

5 LETTERS ABLER ADAGE ADORE ATONE AVAIL AVERT BABES BEIGE BESET CACAO CACTI CANED COOEE CYCLE DELTA DENIM DONOR DOSES EAVES EDGES

No. 122 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

E D S

N N E R

A S P S T H I C O O N A

R E D

16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 February, 2023

7 LETTERS LEOTARD RENTING REPLICA RESTIVE VERSING VOLCANO

SLEWS STORM TEPEE TESTS TICKS TILDE TRILL WANTS WAVER 6 LETTERS COMBAT CONDOM REDONE SERENE

8 LETTERS ARRESTED DERAILED ENTANGLE ETHEREAL

03-03-23

4 LETTERS ACHE DINE DIPS EVIL GEMS HISS IDOL POSE REST SALE SEES TACO WADE WIDE

EERIE ERODE HEART HOURS KILOS LOUSE MATTS OBESE OLIVE OPERA OVERT POLAR RACES RADAR RAMPS REACT REARS RESTS SARIS SASSY SLEET

cede, cite, cited, civet, deceit, deceive, defect, DEFECTIVE, deft, device, dice, diet, dive, edict, edit, evict, evicted, fecit, feed, feet, fete, feted, fetid, five, iced, idee, teed, tide, tied, vice, vide, vied

2 6 7 8 1 9 3 5 4 1 9 8 5 4 3 6 7 2 4 3 5 2 7 6 1 8 9 7 1 4 3 6 5 2 9 8 6 2 9 7 8 4 5 3 1 5 8 3 9 2 1 7 4 6 9 7 6 1 5 8 4 2 3 8 4 2 6 3 7 9 1 5 3 5 1 4 9 2 8 6 7

7 9 6 4 3 8 1 2 5 8 4 2 5 6 1 3 7 9 3 1 5 2 7 9 4 8 6 9 2 4 1 8 3 5 6 7 1 6 8 7 4 5 9 3 2 5 3 7 6 9 2 8 1 4 2 8 9 3 5 6 7 4 1 6 7 3 9 1 4 2 5 8 4 5 1 8 2 7 6 9 3

3 1 5 7 8 6 2 4 9 2 7 6 9 3 4 5 1 8 9 4 8 1 2 5 3 6 7 8 9 7 4 5 1 6 3 2 5 6 1 3 9 2 7 8 4 4 3 2 6 7 8 1 9 5 1 5 4 8 6 7 9 2 3 7 8 9 2 1 3 4 5 6 6 2 3 5 4 9 8 7 1

No. 122

5 $ 0 3 6

9-LETTER WORD

O E

S W

S T

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

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

32 words: Excellent

hard

5x5

medium

3 LETTERS ARE ART ASH ATE BOO EGO EKE ERA EVE EYE GEE GYM HEN HOE ICY IVY KEN OPT ORE OVA RAN SIT TOW VIE

QM R L I X Y Z K P O U J

easy

N T D F HG C A B V E SW

3 5 4 6 4 5 1 6 5 9 9 7 4 5 8 9 2 6 4 3 2 3 1 5 1 6

WORDFIT

QUICK QUIZ

With regards to the university, what does RMIT stand for?

Which podcast won Podcast of the Year at the 2022 Australian Podcast Awards?

The Richter scale was developed by which US seismologist?

Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer (pictured) star in which US TV comedy?

See What You Made Me Do is a 2020 non-fiction book written by which Australian journalist?

Do emperor penguins live in the Arctic or Antarctica?

President Joe Biden was born in which US state?

What type of fruit was the heaviest recorded fruit, at more than 1000kg?

The two Australian pigeon species that have an erect crest are the crested pigeon and what other species?

10 Which city has the highest population density in the world? ANSWERS: 1. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology 2. Charles F. Richter 3. Jess Hill 4. Pumpkin 5. Spinifex pigeon 6. The Last Outlaws 7. Broad City 8. Antarctica 9. Pennsylvania 10. Manila (The Philippines)

medium

3 2 7 9 8 9

Travelling bag (8) Cloth (6) Adhesive (5) From Oslo, eg (9) Sleeveless jacket (6) Neptune’s fork (7) Self-government (8) Chinese ethnicity (6) Uncommon event or item (6) Waterfall (8) Perfume (7) Man’s name (6) Pathological self-admirer (9) Herd (5) Long, angry speech (6) Fierce storms (8)

20 21 24 27 28 29 30

Words of the same meaning (8) Common name for the US (7) Lift (5) Compile (9) Colloquial shortening of Protestant (4) Consensus (9) Making loud and confused noise (10) Song of praise (8) Drinking vessel (7) Animal track (5) Revise and correct (4) Finish (3,2) Headland (4)

ACROSS 1 5 10 11 12 13 14 15 18

No. 122

5 $ & ( 6 : $ 9 ( 5 7 , & . 6 $ ' $ * ( $ 7 2 1 ( $ 9 $ , / ' 2 1 2 5 ' ( / 7 $ & < & / ( $ 5 ( ( . ( & $ & $ 2 7 2: : $ 1 7 6 + , 6 6 5 ( ' 2 1 ( 5 ( 1 7 , 1 * + 2 ( 3 2 6 ( , ' 2 / % $ % ( 6 6 $ / ( ( 7 + ( 5 ( $ / 2 3 7 5 ( 6 7 , 9 ( / ( 2 7 $ 5 ' $ 5 5 ( 6 7 ( ' ' , 1 ( * ( ( 5 $ 0 3 6 ( 9 , / 5 ( 6 7 ( < ( 5 ( 3 / , & $ $ & + ( 5 ( $ 5 6 & 2 1 ' 2 0 % 2 2 6 $ 5 , 6 * < 0 2 9 $ / 2 8 6 ( 2 / , 9 ( % ( 6 ( 7 ' ( 1 , 0 $ 9 ( 5 7 ( ( 5 , ( ( ' * ( 6 7 ( 6 7 6 5 ( 6 7 6

SUDOKU

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Enjoy local NEWS every week

SECTION

Establish

ed in 198

1 as the proudly serv

ing Melton

and Moo

rabool 22 NOVE

1249640 4-AV2221

Pick up your copy of Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly from any of the locations below.. Or, subscribe to our FREE digital edition and have it sent to your device every week!

FREE DIGIT

AL EDITIO

MBER, 2022

SIG N U P

NOW!

Castle ba in busine ck ss

Kryal Castl e chief

executive Bart

Hamilton. (Damj

an Janevs

Highway

ki) 30839

By Liam

6_05

McNally

upgrade

The team at Kryal Cast months durin le spent long g COVID improvem quietly ents with a live-i and practicin making g world cham n skeleton crew their craft that inclu pion joust ded Post-lock er Phill Leitc h. park has down, the medieval boomed theme back into and has been action, with a nom rewarded for its efforts Attraction ination for Best Tourism Tourism in Victoria by the Industry Victo rian Coun chief exec utive Bart cil. Kryal Castle nominati on feels “amHamilton said the “It’s been azing”. coming back quite a long journ ey from from COV been for ID , as it most touri has the team sm has put in entities, but amount of such an incre work dible over the months to last now,” he get us back to wher12 to 18 said. e we are Since 1970 , Kryal Cast to provide le has medieval guests with an imm aimed experienc Within the e for kids ersive the highlightcastle walls you and adults. can witne s of the ss jousting, sword fight middle ages – wizards, ing, potio an n-making dungeon, executioner, a tortu and re The awar a maze. at the Melb ds will be decided Decembe ourne Conventio at a gala n Centre r 1. on Liam McN

ally

pledge

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

Melton

12554985-JW27-2

Toyota

143-147 High Stre et, Melton T: 03 874 6 LMCT 197 0300 6 meltontoy ota.com .au

TALK TO US ABOUT FINA

NCE INSURAN GENUIN CE E ACCESS TYRES ORIES REPAIR & TINTING RESTOR E SERVICE S KINTO+ CAR HIRE ROADSID E ASSISTA NCE

T e e mo et at Melto an eal n Toyota

Pick up your FREE newspaper from these local outlets... •

Bacchus Marsh The Big Apple Cafe 434 Bacchus Marsh Road

•

Bacchus Marsh Foodworks - Baccus Marsh 1 Bennett Street

•

Bacchus Marsh Coles Supermarket Cnr Bennett and Young Street (The Village Shopping Centre)

•

Bacchus Marsh Shell Coles Service Station 20-22 Gell Street

•

Bacchus Marsh APCO Service Station 13 Gisborne Road

•

Bacchus Marsh Allan Mance Holden 4 Graham Street

•

Bacchus Marsh 7/11 Service Station 28 Main Street

•

Bacchus Marsh Newsagency 138 Main Street

•

Bacchus Marsh Arbee Real Estate 140 Main Street

• • • •

•

Ballan Newsagency 133 Inglis Street

•

Ballan IGA Plus Liquor - Ballan 135 Inglis Street

•

Melton Milk Bar 44 Burleigh Road

•

Melton Waves Leisure Centre 206 Coburns Road

•

Melton TAB Corp Park 2 Ferris Road

•

Melton Woolworths Supermarket 533-555 High Street (Woodgrove Shopping Centre

•

Melton Coles Supermarket 533-555 High Street (Woodgrove Shopping Centre)

•

Melton OP Shop 4/86 High Street

Ballan Moorabool Shire - Ballan 15 Stead Street

•

Melton Shire Council Offices 232 High Street

•

Melton Tatts Kiosk 533-555 High Street (Woodgrove Shopping Centre)

•

Brookfield Ingenia Gardens Village 23-35 Coburns Road

•

Melton Australia PostOffice 340 High Street

•

Melton Allan Mance Holden 1 Holland Drive

•

Brookfield Lifestyle Brookfield 111-139 Coburns Road

•

Melton Sweeney Real Estate 266 High Street

•

Darley Pharmasave Darley Pharmacy Shop Shop 5, 151 Gisborne Road (Darley Plaza Shopping Centre)

• •

•

Darley My Little Mates Convenience Store Shop 12, 151 Gisborne Road (Darley Plaza Shopping Centre)

Bacchus Marsh UFS Pharmacy 25-27 Grant Street

•

Bacchus Marsh Bellbrook Gardens Country Club 168 Underbank Boulevard

•

Melton Library 31 McKenzie Street

•

Melton Country Club 28-30 Reserve Road

Melton Advance Stationers 283 High Street

•

Melton Indoor Sports Centre 65 Reserve Road

Melton Raine and Horne Real Estate 289 High Street

•

Melton Coles 11 Station Street (Melton Station Square)

•

Melton Lotto 293 High Street

•

Melton Lee Merchants 29 Wallace Square

•

Melton Harcourts Real Estate 306 High Street

•

Melton South Woolworths Supermarket Opalia 179-253 Exford Road

•

Melton Professionals Real Estate 317 High Street

•

Melton South Yes Yes Indian Supermarket 201 Exford Road

•

Melton Freddy’s Fruit & Veg 393 High Street

•

Melton South Hume Milk Bar 55 Hume Avenue

•

Darley Champions IGA Grey Street

•

Darley Moorabool Shire 182 Halletts Way

•

Bacchus Mart Indian Grocery Store shop 47&48/ 160 Main Street

Darley Bacchus Marsh Gold Club Links Road

•

Darley Vans Milk Bar 1 Sheldon Ave

Bacchus Marsh Village UFS Pharmacy 66/160-192 Main Street

•

Diggers Rest Pharmacy 2 Farm Road

•

Melton Toyota 143-147 High Street

•

Melton YPA Real Estate 272-274 High Street

Melton South Shell Coles Express 1-9 Station Road ( Cnr Brooklyn Rd )

Bacchus Marsh Sweeney Real Estate 153 Main Street

Diggers Rest FoodWorks 22 Glitter Road

•

Melton Amcal Pharmacy 308-312 High Street

Melton South MGS Melton 8B Station Road

Bacchus Marsh Australia Post Office shop 6/ 176 Main Street

Diggers Rest Post Office 76 Old Calder Highway

•

Gordon Post Office 65 Main Street

•

Morgans Supa IGA 335-345 High Street

Melton South Australia Post Office shop 9/ 11-17 Station Road

Melton MGS Melton 358 High Street

•

Melton South Station Square Shopping Centre 25 Station Road

•

Bacchus Marsh Stockdale and Leggo Real Estate 191 Main Street

•

Harkness Foodworks 17 Claret Ash Boulevard

Bacchus Marsh Milk Bar the Avenue 208 Main Street

•

Hillside Foodworks 595 Melton Highway

•

Melton Pharmacy Superstore 383-385 High Street

•

Melton West Melton Indian Grocery Store 533-555 High Street ( Woodgrove SC )

Bacchus Marsh Bacchus Marsh Information Centre 215 Main Street

•

Hillside United Petroleum Hillside 821-899 Melton Highway

•

Melton NQR Melton 405-407 High Street

•

Melton West Your Chemist Shop 533-555 High Street ( Woodgrove SC )

•

Bacchus Marsh The Village Shopping Centre Main Street

•

Keilor Park Star Weekly Office Unit 6/1-9 Thomson Road (Cnr Keilor Park Drive)

Melton FoodWorks Shop 1, 415-429 High Street

•

Melton West Australia Post Office Shop 80 / 533-555 High Street ( Woodgrove SC )

•

Bacchus Marsh Laurels Education & Training 229 Main Street

Melton Woodgrove Shopping Centre 533-555 High Street

•

Kurunjang Kirkton Drive Milk Bar 203 Gisborne - Melton Road

•

Myriong Plough Inn Hotel/Motel 17 Main Street

•

Kurunjang Village Store 51 Kurunjang Drive

Melton EGF Solution - Woodgrove Shopping Centre Shop R30A, 533-555 High Street

Rockbank Newsagency 1157 Leakes Road

•

Maddingley Bacchus Marsh West Golf Club Bacchus Marsh-Ballan Road

•

Melton Woolworths Supermarket 523-531 High Street (Coburns Shopping Centre)

•

Taylors Hill Gilson College 450 Taylors Road

•

Toolern Vale General Store 1486 Diggers Rest-Coimadai Road

Scan this QR code to Subscribe for FREE now! Or visit: meltonmoorabool.starweekly.com.au/subscribe 12579858-JC48-22

Tuesday, 28 February, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

networkclassifieds.com.au

Trades & Services V Trades Business Profile

V Guttering

RJ GUTTERS

Placing your classiﬁed advert is so easy...

฀

Homes

Grow your business with

We accept payment by: (1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local ofﬁce)

TRADES & SERVICES

Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week.

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS

V Air Conditioning

Fencing

lorbond Lou’s Co s & Pergolas

KS Heating & Cooling

A44-18 12402755-R 4-17 5153 ACM1

12435708-LB03-20

Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.

Gate ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ 9 ฀ 3 1 3 9 73 ฀ Tony 043 5 4 4 9 33 Lou 0412

Services • Repairs • Maintenance Over 30 years experience, All types of Air Con, Evap Cooler & Gas Heating System AU31693 G6425413AA-dc5Nov

AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING

SAIDA’S PAINTING Top Quality Guaranteed EST. 2008

• Domestic • Commercial • Interior • Exterior • New Homes • Renovation • Plaster Repairs • Home Repairs 0416 561 594 0403 610 782 www.saidaspaintingau.com

Call for a Free Quote

V Plumbing

“Star Weekly has been the most effective, affordable and efficient advertising company that we have ever dealt with.”- Louie

LOCAL DRAIN CLEARING • Blocked Drain & Emergency Plumber • Drains Reline

0423 288 893

Lic 49728

V Reblocking/Underpinning MEMBER OF MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

Reg No 8659

NICK’S RE-BLOCKING SERVICE

ALL SUBURBS ★ RAISING ★ LEVELLING ★ UNDERPINNING ★ RESTUMPING WITH CONCRETE OR REDGUM STUMPS ★ COUNCIL PERMIT ★ ALL WORK GUARANTEED FREE SMOKE ALARM Registered Building Practitioner

jadhc@live.com.au

LATIN ROOF RESTORATION

t 3FQBJST 3FTUPSBUJPO t $FNFOU 5FSSBDPUUB 5JMFT t )JHI 1SFTTVSF $MFBOJOH t 3FCFEEJOH 1PJOUJOH t "DSZMJD $PBU 4ZTUFN t $MFBO (VUUFST %PXOQJQFT t 'SFF RVPUF t ZFBS HVBSBOUFF

12459914-SN36-20

V Carpenters

G6795050AA-dc29Apr 1132314-LB19-14

V Roofing

Call 1300 666 808

V Bathroom & Kitchens

V Fencing & Gates

Specialising in ✔ Pergolas and deckings ✔ Fencing ✔ Framing ✔ Home Renovations Free Quotes

Gates & Pergolas ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ Lou 0412 339 445 Tony 0431 339 739

NATHAN FENECH CONCRETING All • Footings • Slabs • Foundations • Concrete Paving • Concrete Restorations NO JOB TOO SMALL!

V Bricklayers

FREE QUOTES Mobile: 0478 129 330 | ABN. 43462185813

12418345-SN21-19

Contact Adam 0422 250 675

ROSSCO ENGINEERING AND SALES

CONTRACTING

Very diverse in all aspects of specialised property services Pergolas • Decks • Retaining Walls • Renovations • Landscaping

12533274-HC09-22

V Builders & Building Services

Froggys

V Engineering

Andrew 0425 852 621 | Froggys.com.au | info@froggys.com.au

- Manufacturing - Metals - Engineering On Site - Hydraulic Hoses & Fittings - Powder Coating - Sand Blasting - Custom Fabrication - Welding - Steel Sales - Engineering Supplies 1229835-ACM22-16

All Types of Bricklaying Restoration Work ฀Brick Fences ฀Repair Work

12479887-JW04-21

Residential - Commercial - Industrial

www.topedgekitchens.com.au

13 Reddrop St, Bacchus Marsh PH: 5367 1141 AH: 0418 301 841 www.rosscoengineering.com.au

T HE U LTIMATE F ENCE F ACTORY

Fencing & Gates, Sliding Gates, Solar Panel Sliding Gates No Job Too Small, No Job Too Big Free Measuring Quote larryfranklin561@gmail.com

Call: 0415 337 192

V Septic Tanks

V Garage/Garage Doors

F & J ROLLER DOORS REPAIRS & REMOTES Roller Door Remote Controls Silent Drive 7 Year Warranty FROM $500 fully installed

9746 7785

2m, 3m, 4m and 6m Bins 6m, 12m and 18m Walk in Bins

12486015-NG11-21

V Concrete Products & Services

Showroom by appointment only Free Quotes & Mobile Ensuite Hire. terms & conditions apply Please note that we specialise in renovations - we do not do repairs or maintenance

AK BRICKLAYING

G6638978

IVERS LIQUID WASTE

0412 184 772

V Garden Services

SEPTIC TANK CLEANING SERVICE

Biocycle Aqua Nova Taylex Systems

Find us on

0419 400 025

Lachlan Ivers

“Couldn’t recommend any more highly, prompt and friendly service!”

12568118-AV37-22

Phone 0401 005 760 12499953-AV25-21

12398667-SN37-18

Kitchens & Bathroom Renovations · Plumbing · Tiling · Electrical · Carpentry · Plastering · One stop shop - Kitchen, bathroom, laundries & renovation needs. · Complete service from start to ﬁnish, including kitchen 3D design. · Appliance packages available. · Bathroom tapware, accessories & tiles on display in our showroom.

V Rubbish Removal

12395942-RC33-18 506465AA-dc3Dec

Lou’s Colorbond Fencing

12402755-RA44-18

$BMM (FPSHF PS 4FC

TD CARPENTRY

12420493-CG25-19

8348 5441

FREE QUOTES

0421 421 640

C1093409-JO39-13

Jad 0425 804 593 or 9336 1996 AU 21094 Lic 42666

฀

PH: 9360 5357 Mobile: 0412 378 193 12563025-JC33-22

JAD COOLING AND HEATING

฀ ฀ ฀

V Painters/Decorators

REPAIR, SUPPLY AND INSTALLATIONS • EVAPORATIVE COOLERS • SPLIT SYSTEMS • HOT WATER SYSTEMS • DUCTED HEATING

฀

12567906-MS37-22

(include your name, address and phone number)

Call 0430 332 368

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

★ New & Existing ★

Online: networkclassiﬁeds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassiﬁeds.com.au

Deadline for all classiﬁcations is 1:30pm Monday.

฀

1232632-ACM26-16

12543772-HC15-22

V Deadline

We clean them all!

AMAZING GARDEN SERVICES Specialist in • Lawn mowing • Edging Pruning / Hedge Trimming • Regular Maintenance • Rubbish Removals • Tree Lopping • Gutter Cleaning

General Notices

Call Joe 0498 375 094 - 7 days

section of Network Classifieds.

29 .00

Brimbank & North West Star Weekly

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly

• All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication. • After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear. • The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item. • Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer.

Wyndham Star Weekly

• The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain. Run my advert in:

Northern Star Weekly

2 papers - $7 extra 3 papers - $14 extra 4 papers - $21 extra 5 papers - $28 extra 6 papers - $35 extra

ADD A PHOTO FOR AN ADDITIONAL $8.00. 12588887-ET06-23

18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 February, 2023

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which sports brand did tennis star Roger Federer part ways with in 2018? 2. Where were the World Street Skateboarding championships held this year?

4. In which year was Brooklyn Nets point guard Ben Simmons first drafted into the NBA?

13. With Josh Kelly and Stephen Coniglio as vice-captains, who is captain of the GWS Giants?

5. Which NBL team does American athlete Tahjere McCall play for?

14. Which Portland Trail Blazers player won the Three-Point Contest at the 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend?

6. Dyson Heppell recently stepped down as Essendon's skipper after how many seasons in the role?

3. Which sport is Dave Bautista best known for?

7. What is the title of Netflix’s new golf documentary?

Dyson Heppell

15. The 2023 Cup Of Nations international women’s soccer tournament was held in which Australian state? 16. And the 2023 Cup Of Nations featured Australia and which three other national teams?

8. True or false: bouldering is a sport at the Olympics? 9. Which WWE star is currently filming for Ricky Stanicky alongside Zac Efron in Melbourne?

17. Jack Ginnivan last played for which AFL team?

10. Who is the AFLW captain of Carlton? 11. Which NRL team did inaugural Dolphins captain Jesse Bromwich previously play for? 12. The Women’s Premier League Twenty20 cricket league is set to debut in March 2023 in which country?

18. Which Sudan-born middle-distance runner was named 2023 WA Young Australian Of The Year?

26. In which sport do competitors slide face down and head-first at speeds over 130km per hour?

21. Which Australian women’s cricket player went for more than half a million dollars at the inaugural Women’s Premier League draft?

27. When was the last time Arsenal won the Premier League title?

22. At which Winter Olympics did Australia first compete?

28. Out of his 61 bouts, how many did Muhammad Ali lose?

23. A typical soccer ball has how many hexagons and pentagons?

19. DK Metcalf, MVP of the 2023 NBA Celebrity All-Star Game, plays for which NFL team?

24. The Essendon Football Club just announced who as their vice-captain, alongside Zach Merrett as captain?

20. Which Philadelphia 76ers player won the Slam Dunk Contest at the 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend?

25. In volleyball, how many points must a set be won by?

29. Melbourne United missed the NBL finals after which team beat the Sydney Kings by 12 points to jump ahead on the ladder? 30. A double eagle is a score of how many under par in golf?

Ben Simmons 0303

1. Nike 2. United Arab Emirates 3. Wrestling 4. 2016 5. Cairns Taipans 6. Six 7. Full Swing 8. True 9. John Cena 10. Kerryn Peterson 11. Melbourne Storm 12. India 13. Toby Greene 14. Damian Lillard 15. New South Wales 16. Czech Republic, Jamaica and Spain 17. Collingwood 18. Peter Bol 19. Seattle Seahawks 20. Mac McClung 21. Ashleigh Gardner 22. 1936 Winter Olympics 23. 12 pentagons and 20 hexagons 24. Andrew McGrath 25. Two 26. Skeleton 27. 2003/2004 season 28. Five 29. Perth Wildcats 30. Four Television/Video/Audio

General Classiﬁeds V

Public Notices and Event

Tiling

ASAP.E TILING

12587929-FC05-23

• Bathroom, Kitchen, Toilet Renovation • Small Extension • Carpentry / Plastering • 20yrs. Plus Building Experience ** call Hill now for a free quote **

Tel 0427 963 906 Tree Lopping/Surgery

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ “Your Local Tree & Stump Removalist” ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ 0421 836 152

12327446-LN42-16

Melton Tree & Stump Removals ฀

General Notices V

Massage Therapists

For Sale

ROB'S SHEEP MANURE, 40 litre bags, $7.00 per bag, minimum delivery 15 bags, sms preferred, 0429 954 259 V

Wanted

CASH FOR RECORDS LP records wanted big or small collections, no 78s or classical. Prompt and polite service Phone Ian: 0418 539 736

Professional Services

Weighbridge Operator

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

Admin and adhoc duties, full time position, computer knowledge is essential. Saturdays required.

Tuition

A TEACHER Available for tutoring. Mathematics, Science, Chemistry, Chinese and Japanese. Phone 0418 871 203

Employment

Melton-Moorabool Star Weekly as follows:

Friday 10th March at 1.30pm 12592196-AI09-23

12568290-ET38-22

Classified deadlines for

• Logo Design • Brochure Design • Flyer Design • Poster Design

• Business Card Design • Letterhead Design • Pull-Up Banner Design • Signage Banner Design

CALL

info@acerdesignstudio.com.au www.acerdesignstudio.com.au

0479 180 768

0428 568 004

Buy & Sell in the

Motoring section of Network Classiﬁeds.

Motoring Motor Vehicles

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

Wrecking

FREE CAR REMOVAL Pay up to $500 for most cars Dead or Alive LMCT 10268W

7 days a week service Call Gus for a free quotation on

0435 904 818

Positions Vacant

FOR ALL YOUR MARKETING MATERIAL NEEDS

Labour Day 13th March Tuesday, 14th March issue of the

Graphic Design

GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICES

Contact Norm after 5pm for further details:

Find it in the

HAIRDRESSER VACANCIES We offer the following positions in Gisborne with an immediate start; • Fully qualiﬁed hair dresser • 2nd year apprentice • Salon assistant Excellent working environment and friendly staff. Above award wages for the right candidates. Contact George on 0411 161 563

General

12587455-AV04-23

CLASSIFIEDS EARLY DEADLINES

Excavator Operator Loader Operator and Labourer required.

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

section of Network Classiﬁeds. V

OPERATORS/ LABOURER /WEIGHBRIDGE OPERATOR

Duties include greasing, maintenance and adhoc.

48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B

Positions Vacant

Pets & Services

Open 7 days

12592294-FC09-23

Public Notices and Event

RELAXATION MASSAGE 7 days, 10am - 8pm. St Albans. Phone 0458 891 066 or 0438 842 866.

12423634-SN31-19

SK Lin BLK 117 – Unit 07-330 Edgefield Plains SINGAPORE 830117 To the owner/occupier or owners/occupiers of the land described below: A notice to • 24 Moroka Avenue Weir Views Victoria 3338 PROPERTY NO 762385 to do the work specified below Not later than 16/03/2023 has been affixed on the following properties in accordance with section 41A(3) of the Country Fire Authority Act 1958. • Cut all grass weeds and undergrowth on the whole property, including fence line to a maximum height of 100mm Date: 23/02/2023 Mark Roberts Municipal Fire Prevention Officer: Fire Prevention Officer for Melton City Council You may lodge an objection to this notice under section 41B of the Country Fire Authority Act 1958 and appeal the outcome of that objection under section 41C of the Act.

$110/ 30mins

12590640-JW08-23

SCHEDULE 16 NOTICE TO OWNERS OR OCCUPIERS OF LAND

DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS

0409 888 228 12469374-CG46-20 V

Rainbow Club

SAME DAY SERVICE HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS

Adult Services

Employment

AMBER 22yo. Just arrived. New in town. Excellent ADVERTISERS, in this secservice. Hot and sexy. tion are qualified practiAvail. now. 0478 675 520. tioners and offer nonsexual services.

ANTENNA MAN

12561969-JC32-22

General Notices

12321532-HM36-16

Trades & Services

section of Network Classifieds.

Tuesday, 28 February, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 19

MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

New Seltos has a chunky shape that’s at the forefront of small SUV design. (PIctures: Supplied)

Kia Seltos is easy on the eye By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring Seltos is the second smallest model in Kia’s SUV range, sitting above the compact Stonic and below the Sportage. It competes against vehicles such as the MG ZS, Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30 and Mitsubishi ASX. Originally launched here in late 2019 Seltos received a major upgrade in November 2022 with exterior and interior changes, safety improvements, new tech features, plus extra power and a new transmission for the top-spec model. The changes do come at a price with increases of at least $2200 across the range, although they can probably be justified. As before Seltos is available in four grades: S, Sport, Sport+ and GT Line. All get the previous 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine that drives the front wheels, while Sport+ and GT-Line are also available with a tweaked version of the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine along with all-wheel drive.

Styling To our eyes Seltos is one of the best-looking vehicles in its class, with the chunky style that’s fashionable in current SUVs. There’s a large grille with mesh fill, an array of lights built to the side and stylish lower area that has a solid look thanks to the expansion at the corners. At the rear there’s a central light-bar across the top of the tail gate that expands the visual appearance of the Seltos. All models get alloy wheels, 16-inch with the Seltos S, 17-inch on the Sport and Sport+ and 18-inch under the GT-Line. Also standard are body-coloured folding side mirrors, roof rails and a rear spoiler. Only the GT-Line gets LED head and tail lights, the others have to make do with halogens. Other features specific to the GT-Line are a gloss black mech grille, satin silver beltline, powered tailgate and tilt and slide sunroof. There’s a good range of colours, with nine in total, including a couple of eye-catching two-tone finishes.

Engines / transmissions All four Seltos variants come with a four-cylinder 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle naturally-aspirated engine that’s carried over from the previous model. It produces 110 kW and 180 Nm at 4500 rpm coupled with a continuously variable transmission. Combined fuel consumption is listed at 6.9L/100km. So, no change there. The big improvement comes from the 1.6-litre turbo-petrol available with Sport+ and GT-Line where power increases 16 kW to 146 kW with an unchanged 265 Nm of torque. Claimed fuel consumption is 7.4L/100km. The previous dual-clutch automatic transmission mated to the 1.6 engine has been replaced by an eight-speed torque converter auto that supplies drive to all four wheels through an on-demand AWD system.

Safety Kia Seltos comes with an impressive list of advanced safety features including rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping assist, blind spot collision avoidance, driver inattention alert, forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking, with impact-sensing automatic door unlocking. In addition, all models get downhill brake control, front and rear parking sensors and two Isofix child seat anchor points. Another very useful feature is Safe Exit Alert which warns if a vehicle is passing within a distance that could impact your doors.

Infotainment Entry-level Seltos S comes with an 8.0-inch LCD infotainment touchscreen in the centre of the dashboard and a 4.2-inch driver information screen behind the steering wheel. The set-up in the three other models is much more attractive and functional with a pair of 10.25-inch screens embedded within a single panel that dominates the centre of the dashboard.

20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 February, 2023

The instrument panel can be configured to the driver’s taste to control or monitor numerous features. New to MY22 Seltos Sport, Sport+ and Gt-Line is Kia Connect, a smartphone-based system that offers a wide range of digital features including the ability to remotely lock and unlock doors, start the engine, activate and adjust air conditioning, set satellite navigation destinations and display vehicle diagnostic information. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard although, oddly enough, they are wireless in the Seltos S but wired in the three higher-spec’d models. Our contact at Kia Australia explains the absence of satnav in S allowed wireless charging to be fitted but prevented it in the others.

Driving Our test vehicle was the Seltos Sport+ with the 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine and new eight-speed torque-convertor automatic. The first thing we noticed on take-off was how much smoother it was compared to the previous seven-speed dual-clutch system. The upgraded 146kW engine has plenty of punch with minimal turbo lag off the line. The steering feel is excellent and really does signal to the driver what is happening at the front of the car. Multiple changes of direction on a twisting country road are made with ease. It’s a neat little car to ride in and is generally as smooth and quiet as cars of this size around town. However, it creates quite a racket on some motorway concrete surfaces and isn’t overly happy on country roads that are in poor condition. As with all Kia models in Australia, the ride and handling characteristics of the car have been optimised to provide the experience Australian drivers have come to expect.

Summing up Kia has been steadily moving up the Australian sales ladder and now sits in a career-best third position. While it’s still relatively new, Seltos

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE S 2.0 FWD: $29,500 Sport 2.0 FWD: $32,700 Sport+ 2.0 FWD: $35,800 GT-Line 2.0 FWD: $41,500 Sport+ 1.6 AWD: $39,300 GT Line 1.6 AWD: $44,900 SPECIFICATIONS Kia Seltos GT-Line 1.6-litre turbo-petrol five-door wagon

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

already accounts for around 11 per cent of company sales. The recent refresher keeps it right up there with the best in a highly-competitive market segment.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Pretty shows stunning form for Caroline Springs While most players fail to hit a 100 in the T20 format in their lives, Caroline Springs’ Caitlin Pretty hit three in the space of four weeks in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association women’s competition. Pretty has been a star for the Falcons since joining the club in their second season, playing a massive role in the side making back-to-back finals. This year she has taken her game to the next level. Heading into the grand final, Pretty had made 538 runs at an average of just under 90. Pretty made her first 100 in round nine, hitting 102 not out off 59. She backed it up two weeks later with 101 off 47 balls and then 100 off 60 balls the following round. She had also hit another three half centuries. Pretty is as shocked as anyone with her run

of form. “It’s been fun,” she said. “It was a bit of a fluke and then it happened again. It’s good to get out there and swing at it. “That’s me really, it’s good fun.” Pretty said nothing had changed in her preparation for each match. She said having a good side which was always improving had helped her be able to play her game. In the VTCA, Pretty is just one of two players from first XI sides to hit three centuries this season. She said she was shocked and honoured to have been able to achieve that. Pretty said she played a little bit of cricket growing up, with her dad a cricket man. She said she had learned a lot from him. “I gave it a miss the first year they had a side,” he said. “Alisha Fowler got me in and I haven’t looked back since then.”

Pretty said before the grand final, which was after deadline, they were better prepared to face Westmeadows in the final game of the year. “Last year we had a lot of fill-ins, this year we were really consistent,” she said. “We’ve had some younger players as well. We have come so far in the last 12 months, hopefully we can get the win.” A premiership would cap off a big 12 months for Pretty on the sporting field. Pretty captained Caroline Springs’ women’s team to its first Western Region Football League premiership. Pretty said it would be pretty cool to win both cricket and football grand finals in the same season. “I love them both equally,” she said. “It would be fantastic to win both cricket and football grand finals in the same year. Tara Murray

Caitlin Pretty. (Supplied)

pulls Lions’ finals hopes alive Swan on boots for By Tara Murray

Melton’s finals hopes remain alive heading into the final round of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west. Having not won a game last season, the Lions have made massive inroads this season including winning six out of their last seven matches. The Lions now sit just percentage outside the top six, one of four teams equal on points. Lions coach Mitch Stephens said to still be in finals contention at this point of the season, wasn’t something they were expecting at the start of the season. “We still need to win the next game and rely on results,” he said. “We spoke mid-year that we had already exceeded expectations and that we wanted to push for bigger honours. “The work we’re doing is paying off.” On Saturday, the Lions came away with a hard fought win against Balwyn. The Lions resumed at 1-48 in reply to 145. The Lions managed to get the runs with plenty of time and wickets to spare. They lost four late wickets after securing the points, to finish 8-154. Stephens said it wasn’t the easy wicketa to bat on. “It was a really tricky wicket out there,” he said. “It was green and soft. We just wanted to make sure we got the six points first.” Shehan Hirudika top scored with 46, while Jason Hibbert scored 31 as all the top order got starts. Pleasingly for the Lions, they didn’t need to rely on leading run scorer Ben MacRae to get them over the line. “Ben has been amazing for us this year without him, we wouldn’t have been able to put on some big scores,” Stephens said. “JJ Hibbert and Shehan were able to get some time in the middle. We were pretty confident we would get the runs. “We needed our top six or seven to get the job done. Benny at training has been making it a real focus to value your wicket.” The Lions face Williamstown in the final round in a one-dayer. Stephens said it was a challenge they were looking forward to. “Williamstown will be a good fight and we need to play the best if we’re going to play in finals,” he said. “We’ll just stick to the process that has seen us win six of the last seven. If what we do pays off then that’s good, if it doesn’t we’ve still been playing our way.” In good signs for the Lions, their third, fourth and fifth XIs along with their under-18s have all qualified for finals. Stephens said that shows how far the club has come this season.

Western Rams AFL Brownlow medallist Dane Swan will be hitting Rockbank in the opening round of the Riddell District Football League, pulling on the jumper for the Western Rams. The club confirmed that Swan would play for the side in round one against Melton Centrals on April 1. It’s a standalone match for the competition, with the rest of the competition kicking off on April 15 after the Easter long weekend. As well as playing for the Rams, Swan will remain at the club later that day for a sportsman’s night. “Mark it in your calendars,” the club said on social media. “Round one, Saturday 1st of April, we welcome Collingwood legend, premiership player, All Australian player, Brownlow Medallist and Copeland Trophy and Leigh Matthews Trophy recipient… Dane Swan to the Rams. “Swanny will take the field alongside our boys against Melton Centrals and then join us in the rooms for a Sportsman’s Night.” It is the first of a number of one off games Swan will play at clubs this season. It will be a big boost for new coach Leigh Sporle in his first game back coaching at the club. The Rams, who failed to win a game last season, have been busy with a number of new signings in the off season. Charlie Patullo, Geoff Jolly, Kade Sexton, Corey Goforth, Chris Arnold, Ethan Boylan, Brent Taylor, Fitzroy Greenwool and Junior Shandley are among those who have joined the club.

Melton’s Jason Hibbert. (Joe Mastroianni). 307768_02

“There’s been a really positive change,” he said. “We’ll look to grow it next year and we’re already started looking to next year.

“Wins around the club is a positive for Melton and hopefully it makes more people want to come down.”

Dane Swan pictured during training in 2020. (Michael Dodge/AAP Photos)

Tuesday, 28 February, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 21

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

American Keane re-signs with Western United American star Hannah Keane isn’t going anywhere, with the star re-signing with Western United for next year’s A-League Women’s competition. The American attacker has been a star in her first season in the competition, hitting 10 goals in 13 matches and leading the golden boot race. Having acclimatised perfectly to her surroundings in the west, Keane said she is delighted to have signed on and is looking forward to continuing to strive for success. “I’m really pleased,” she said. “I’ve been really happy here, the club has been so welcoming. “It’s a great culture and I think I have a lot more invested in it being here from the beginning. “We can always do better and I just want to be involved in it, and I’m grateful the club wanted me too.” Keane added that her feeling of comfort at United has been significantly helped by the fans and the relationship that she has built with the supporter base. Western United football general manager Mal Impiombato said that Keane’s on-field ability and her contribution to the team culture made her an essential player to re-sign. “We are delighted to be able to keep hold

Hannah Keane has re-signed with Western United. (Joe Mastroianni) 309000_08

of Hannah Keane, the competition’s top goal scorer, for the next Liberty A-League season,” he said.

“Away from just her quality on the pitch, Hannah has played a significant role in developing the culture of our inaugural

women’s program and we look forward to her continual efforts in representing our club over the course of next season.” Keane joined United with a plethora of experience from the United States college system and throughout Europe, having played in the UEFA Women’s Champions League with Portuguese side Braga. Speaking before the season started, Keane said she had always been looking for a second chance in Australia after her first stint with Melbourne City got cut short without playing a game. “I reached out to my old NPL [National Premier League] coach at Alamein from the last time I was here,” she told Star Weekly. “I asked if he knew any A-League coaches and whether he could give me some contact details so I could scope out interest. “He goes, ‘in five minutes Mark [Western United coach [Mark Torcaso] is going to call you’. He coached Calder United and he remembered me. “He gave me these spiel and it looked good and I thought I should give it a chance.” United was back in action on Sunday, after deadline, against the Newcastle Jets. Tara Murray

Sports shorts WRFL Glen Orden won’t field senior or reserves side’s in the Western Region Football League division 2 competition this year. The league announced on Tuesday that the division two club had withdrawn both sides. “The club tried their hardest to enter a senior and reserves side for the upcoming season, but have now informed the league of their decision to go into recess for 2023,” a league statement said. “The WRFL will continue to support Glen Orden through this process and their recovery to re-join the competition next season.” More at www. starweekly.com.au.

VNL

Caroline Springs women’s side.

Falcons break through By Tara Murray It’s been several seasons in the making, but Caroline Springs women’s cricket side finally has a premiership. After making several grand finals including the Victorian Turf Cricket Association final last season, it was finally the Falcons turn. Facing Westmeadows for a second straight season in the grand final, the Falcons put out a strong performance with the bat and then backed it up with the ball to come away with a convincing win on Sunday. The Falcons made 5-141 off their 20 overs with Caitlin Pretty continuing her good form. Pretty finished 90 not out, including hitting a number of late sixes. The Warriors lost an early wicket and before losing 3-1 to crumble to 4-26. The Warriors never recovered and were restricted to 9-76. Pretty topped off her game with 3-12 off three overs, while Myyen Au and Hannah Herring took two wickets each.

Falcons captain Alisha Fowler was thrilled after the game. “It’s pretty amazing,” she said. “It’s been a lot of hard work and we’ve been through a few grand final losses. I’m really stoked for all the girls and it’s well deserved.” Fowler said the experience of playing Westmeadows in the past had worked in their favour and they were confident in their game plan. She said after hoping to make 120 midway through their innings, she thought 141 was plenty of runs and it proved to be. Then with the ball, early wickets were the key. “We knew we had to get their first four or five out pretty cheaply, which we did,” she said. “The bowling was really good today and the fielding was really good “Quick wickets definitely helps, to be 1-25 and then be 4-26 it’s definitely a bonus, the girls bowled phenomenally.” Not surprising Pretty was named player of

22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 February, 2023

the match for the performance. She would also be favourite to take out the season awards, having made more than 600 runs for the season. Her season included three 100s and four 50s from 10 matches. Fowler was lost for words on how to describe Pretty’s performance this season. “I told her I love her today,” she said. “There’s nothing to say, she’s got such natural ability, everything she does. “It’s just ridiculous, I was hoping for 50 and she gave me 90, I’ll take that every day of the week. I’m so happy for her, well deserved season. For many of the girls it’s a second premiership in a matter of months, having helped Caroline Springs Football Club break through after past grand final heartache. While celebrations are the plans for the near future, the Falcons are already starting to think of beyond this season.

The Victorian Netball League is set to expand next year as part of changes to the competition. Netball Victoria announced the new structure on Tuesday ahead of the next five-year licensing period for the competition, between 2024-2028. Up to 12 licenses will be offered, up from the current 10, including up to three outside of metropolitan Melbourne. The new-look VNL will also reduce from three to two divisions, championship and 23 and under aligning with all other state league competitions in Australia.

Australia Cup Melton Phoenix will face Mornington in the third round of the knockout Australia Cup. The rest of the state league sides enter the competition in this round. The first two rounds of the women’s Nike F.C Cup were also drawn. Melton Phoenix has a bye in round one.

GDCA Digger Rest Bulla is on top after day one against Bacchus Marsh in a battle for a Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup finals spot. The Burras won the toss and elected to bat. They were bowled out for 240 in the 77th over. Charith Perera top scored with 78. Jack Powell was the pick of the bowlers with four. FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Just Believe caps off series in winning style Just Believe’s outstanding Aurora Australis series was capped in fittingly winning style, gifting reinsman Bailey McDonough a maiden Group 1 and his big band of connections another mighty thrill. The Larajay Farms gelding produced a seventh win in his last nine starts in capturing the TAB Australian Trotting Grand Prix, a $100,000 Group 1 triumph for trainer Jess Tubbs that added to his E B Cochran and Great Southern Star successes and made him a runaway winner of the rich Victorian series. “He’s absolutely thriving off the work and what he does at home and it obviously shows on the race track,” McDonough said. Just Believe was in command throughout the 2240-metre affair, despite Majestic Man pressing throughout a brisk 43.7-second lead time and with major danger Im Ready Jet lying in wait on his back.

While the Kiwi tired the latter was ever present, with Nathan Jack setting Im Ready Jet free off the final turn to challenge Just Believe in the run to the line. The leader showed his customary fight to hold off the challenge and win by two metres, an important margin given Just Believe appeared to drift into his rival’s path in the run to the line that likely contributed to Im Ready Jet racing roughly late. “He was on one rein quite bad,” McDonough said. “He does tend to do that, he slid up the track a little bit. “It was real tight between me and Nath, but I don’t think with the final margin that he was ever going to get me, so I think that’s why they kept the placings.” It was great relief for McDonough, with his first Group 1 triumph coming in his 20th start at the level that had previously yielded six

placings. “It feels absolutely unreal, the faith that Jess and Greg and all the owners have put into me to drive this horse tonight, it’s an unreal feeling and to get the job done is next level,” he said. “When they were doing the replay I was a little bit nervous, but I was a little bit overwhelmed to be honest with the whole thing.” The win elevated Just Believe’s Aurora Australis total to 31 points for the eight-leg series, having produced three wins, a second and a third from his five starts. It’s a prestigious victory that carries a $50,000 bonus for his loyal group of owners. He finished 11 points clear of Im Ready Jet, with Aldebaran Zeus (17 points), Plymouth Chubb (16 points) and Majestic Man (16 points) other outstanding performers across the series, which kicked off with the January 7 Maori Mile. The next best performer was Sleepee, who

finished sixth in the series despite bypassing tonight’s race for the Lyn McPherson Memorial Breed For Speed Gold Series Final. It proved a sound decision by trainer Alison Alford, with the speedy mare breaking through in the $50,000 Group 2 to notch up her first victory since August 2021 in the hands of reinsman Josh Duggan. Michael Howard

Just Believe (Stuart McCormick)

Falcons on top

Melton’s Shannon Clements. (Joe Mastroianni). 320087_01

Heart break for Melton By Tara Murray It was heart break again for Melton in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 2, section 2 grand final. Playing off in the decider for a third straight season, Melton was hoping it was third time lucky. But for the second time in the space of eight days, Aberfeldie CBC proved too strong, on this occasion winning 75 (15)-74 (3) to secure the title. Melton’s Conrad Dawson said it was a pretty sombre affair for the group after the match having been so close. “It was heart breaking again,” he said. “We went the whole season really strong and then dropped the bundle right at the depth. “We were behind all day and they are a good side. It looked like it was heading for a draw but it didn’t go our way.” Dawson said they trailed by as many as 30

shots earlier in the game, but managed to hit the lead with two ends to go. He said the whole group lifted to get them back into the match. Scores were then level, with Anthony Briggs having the final shot of the day. “Anthony played the last bowl and it was a beautiful bowl, but it didn’t go our way,” Dawson said. Dawson said they would let the group regroup and have a well earned break before starting to look ahead to next season. Despite the disappointment of the result on Saturday, Dawson said they were still proud of the group which had achieved a lot. “It does sting a bit, but we have shown that we can there,” he said. “If we can keep this group together for many years to come, we can have a lot of success. It’s still a young side and maybe that’s why we’ve struggled a bit in finals.” In other positives, Melton’s second side

which also plays in division 2 avoided relegation after a strong end to the season after being bottom for a lot of the year. It’s fourth side made the grand final, losing to Port Melbourne in division 7, section 1. Port Melbourne put out a dominant display, winning 90 (18)-54 (0). Dawson said they will be back again next year every better. “We made finals and we will be better for them,” he said. “We need to regroup and come back. Hopefully we’ll hit the ground running and hopefully fourth time is the charm.” Meanwhile in division 1, section 4, Bacchus Marsh finished its season with a 97 (17)-58 (1) win against St Kilda. Phil Minniti’s rink was the big winner on the day, winning 31-11. Bacchus Marsh finished the season in eighth spot with six wins for the season.

Caroline Springs had a day out with the bat against Werribee Centrals in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 3 on Saturday. Centrals sent the Falcons in and the Falcons made the most of their time in the middle. The Falcons put on 158 for the first wicket, before adding more than 120 for the second wicket. They would declare at 3-309 having gone at more than a run a ball for the innings. Reece Blackman made 126 not out including 21 fours, while Darrel Brown made 102 which included 14 fours. The Falcons then had 15 overs to bowl at the end of the day. The decision to declare had been the right one, with Centrals crumbling to 4-13. An outright win and other results going their way is the only way the Falcons will make the finals. In division 1, rain affected Sydenham-Hillside’s match with St Francis de Sales. Sitting one and two on the ladder, it was St Francis that batted first. They finished day one at 6-184. In division 5, Melton Centrals is on top after day one against Seabrook. Centrals need a win and results to go their way to play finals. Centrals made 2-232 and declared after 65 overs. Chathura Jayanath hit his first century for Centrals, finishing 103 not out. After getting to 0-26, Seabrook lost two late wickets. It will resume at 2-29. Melton South Royals had a solid day against Burnside Springs in their match. Having already sealed a finals spot, the Royals were sent in on their home deck. The Royals made 6-229 off 70 overs. Everyone got a start for the Royals, with Blake Ivory top scoring with 63. Mathew Sanders took three wickets for Burnside. Burnside got through seven overs at the end of day one unscathed. It will resume at 0-18. Tara Murray

Tuesday, 28 February, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

BACCHUS MARSH

Homes from

$512,000 No Stamp Duty

Escape To Your New Life It’s time for something more secure Vibrant, social and secure environment Resort style facilities & onsite management Free standing quality homes

45 min to Melbourne CBD

0455 910 793

Luxury Living for Over 55s bellbrookgardens.com.au

Sole agents for Country Club Living

FREECALL 1800 503 225

12528976-JW50-22

Talk to Denise Sniegowski Bellbrook Gardens Lifestyle Consultant 168 Underbank Boulevard, Bacchus Marsh