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

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Young artists set to glow Diggers Rest Primary School will farewell its old art room with a 2000-piece glowing art exhibition. The Great Glow Show will be held on Thursday, March 30 in the current art room to celebrate the pupils and their work before the room gets demolished during the school holidays to make way for a new specialist hub. The school’s art teacher, Taryn Paterra, said more than 400 pupils have contributed to the show. “The event will feature over 2000 art pieces … with kids entering four pieces each,” Ms explained. “It has become a massive event with all 2000 art pieces displayed being fluorescent. It is actually quite outstanding, the efforts and the effects of this show.” Ms Paterra said the school wanted to farewell the old art room with a bang. “[I thought] let’s go out with a bang [and] paint the room black.” Ms Paterra said the specialist hub will also include a gym and stage. The work is being funded by a $13.4 million state government grant. “The kids are incredibly excited to see the new building,” she said. “Construction will begin shortly and it will be amazing.” Art teacher Taryn Paterra with pupils Kodi and Skye getting ready for the Great Glow Show. (Damjan Janevski) 324876_02

‘Frenzy’ of people power Compensation offers for Melton and Moorabool property owners in the path of the Western Renewables Link project have “whipped up a frenzy” of resistance, according to Moorabool and Central Highlands Power Alliance (MCHPA) chair Emma Muir. MCHPA and other community groups have been protesting the high voltage power lines and 80-metre tall electrical towers being built on local properties for almost three years. The project is a part of Victoria’s push towards renewable energy and involves the construction of powerlines through parts of Melton and Moorabool.

Ms Muir has said MCHPA wants the lines to be placed underground. On Monday, March 20, AusNet released a landholder guide detailing options for easement process and compensation, which states landholders will be paid up to an additional $58,500 on top of the $8000 a year per square kilometre of land provided for the project that the state government announced in February. The document said that if no agreement is reached for easement, AusNet may seek to compulsorily acquire the land through the state government. Ms Muir said the proposal is “firing people

up even more”. Following the release of the document, MCHPA met with AusNet and the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) in Dean on Tuesday. Outside of the meeting hundreds of community members and dozens of tractors gathered in a demonstration organised by another community group, Piss Off AusNet. “Neither organisation is recognising their responsibility for the poor planning and poor decisions attributed to the project,” Ms Muir said. Moorabool council chief executive Derek Madden said the guide contains a “small win

for landholders”, in that compensation will be based on any market value loss of the entire property affected, not just the easement area. A state government spokesperson said: “We are providing additional compensation payments to ensure that we strike a balance between fairly compensating private landholders who host transmission infrastructure, and minimising the impacts on Victorians power bills”. An AusnNet spokeswoman said AusNet Services took a “significant step” towards negotiating compensation with landholders by providing the guidelines document.

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Nurses to take industrial action By Liam McNally Maternal and child health nurses and immunisation nurses at Melton council will stop work as part of industrial action in a bid to secure a wage rise and improved conditions. The nurses started the protected industrial action on Monday, March 27, which will involve wearing red campaign T-shirts and stopping work to have have discussions with new parents and members of the community about the dispute. Maternal and child health nurses, provide early assessment, identification and

intervention for children and families. They also identify and refer vulnerable families at risk of family violence or distress due to financial, disability, mental health or new migrant issues. Enterprise bargaining negotiations between the Victorian branch of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) and Melton council began in May 2022. The current EBA expired in mid-2022. The nurses’ last pay rise was in July 2021. The council area’s population increased by 6709 people or 4.6 per cent between 2020 and 2021, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. During this time Melton families

welcome an estimated 49 new babies a week, according to the union. The ANMF said the nurses are seeking a three-year agreement with an annual four per cent wage rise and an additional week’s annual leave in line with the wider nursing profession and neighbouring councils. The Council is offering a 2.5 per cent per annum increase over three years. ANMF Vic branch secretary Lisa Fitzpatrick said a “fair wage rise and improved working conditions are the only way to retain experienced maternal and child health and immunisation nurses and attract additional nurses to meet the growing needs

of 50 new babies and their families in the area”. Melton council city life director Troy Scoble said Melton’s maternal and child health service “remains under pressure, mainly due to our high local birth rate, along with a shortage of fully qualified Maternal and Child Health nurses across the state”. “We have recently engaged with staff to understand the sentiment around the wage and entitlements offer made late last year and we look forward to returning to enterprise agreement negotiations in good faith this week,” he said.

A chance to Dream Big The Royal Children’s Hospital and The Village Festival are teaming up to encourage kids to Dream Big at Melton’s “most diverse family festival”. Dream Big is a free festival that promotes a healthy body and mind for our next generation through the arts. Taking over Mount Carberry Reserve in Melton South on April 2, Dream Big is set to be a day of wild entertainment for the whole family from 1pm to 6.30pm. Everyone is invited to take part in kite making and flying, art workshops, music making and circus and theatre workshops. Guests can dance to incredible local multi-cultural bands, enjoy the chill tent, the roving performances and the food. The headline event is the fabulous circus, with singing and drumming performances by children who have been part of the Dream Big

Festival Workshop Program in Melton schools. Royal Children’s Hospital Festival for Healthy Living artistic coordinator Anna Loewendahl said Dream Big is a great opportunity to highlight the benefits of the arts in our community. “We encourage kids of all ages to get involved on the day and express themselves,” she said. The Village Festival producer Suzanne Kalk said Dream Big “really reflects the multicultural and creative community that is Melton”. “As producers we just create the festival environment but most of the art you will see and experience is created by local people, local artists and non artists all coming together to celebrate Melton’s vibrant community,” she said. More information about the festival can be found on Facebook. Details: https://www. facebook.com/events/861821674924973

Performers at last year’s Dream Big festival. (Supplied)

Sculpture connects to place Moorabool council is launching two new sculptures at Ballan and Spargo Creek Mineral Springs and the community is invited to join the celebrations and sculpture unveiling. The two sculptures and interpretive signage have been commissioned by council to support Indigenous cultural interpretation of the mineral springs sites. The sculptures reflect the ecological and cultural values of the mineral springs and the Moorabool River. The unveiling will take place at Spargo Creek Mineral Springs on Tuesday, April 4, from 11am, and will include a smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country by Wadawurrung traditional owners. Cultural consultants MURRI:YUL designed the three-metre tall sculptures that are made from locally sourced redgum and feature Wadawurrung language in the interpretive signage. MURRI:YUL co-director Dr Heather Threadgold said the sculptures provide a greater sense of place for visitors by aiding their understanding and awareness of the diverse values of the mineral springs, the

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Pricing under the pump

Pricing under the pump By Benjamin Millar

‘‘

strongly encourage residents to complain to the ACCC

’’

- Steve McGhie

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

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

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

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

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

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By Benjamin Millar

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

traditional role of mineral water and the significance of these places to Traditional Owner groups and the continued importance within the local environment. “Having a visual representation of culture and place helps to embrace and understand layers of connection to those sites and to waterways and to make an inviting place for everybody,” she said. “The sculptures really fit into the natural environment there’s been thought about where they’re placed and the natural materials used, “It has been a good team effort and we hope people enjoy it,” she said. Mayor Rod Ward said the Moorabool community is “unbelievably lucky” to have natural assets enhanced through public artwork that “engages community members and fosters a sense of civic pride and belonging”. “These new sculptures reflect the diverse ecologies of First Peoples lands and are a wonderful acknowledgement of the shire’s Indigenous culture,” he said.

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MURRI:YUL co-directors Melinda Kennedy and Dr Heather Threadgold. (Supplied)

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Liberals suspend Moira Deeming By Liam McNally Western Metropolitan MP Moira Deeming has survived expulsion from the Victorian Liberal Party, but faces a nine-month suspension and the loss of her position as party whip. The decision was made at a a party room meeting on Monday, March 27, a week after opposition leader John Pesuttoto announced he would move to expel the former Melton councillor from the party following her involvement in organising a controversial

rally on Saturday, March 18. The rally, Let Women Speak, was hosted by UK anti-trans campaigner Kelly-Jay Keen-Minshull, along with Ms Deeming, Angie Jones, and Katherine Deves and was attended by about 30 Neo-Nazis. Ms Deeming condemned the Neo-Nazi presence after the event, but Mr Pesutto’s primary concern was Ms Deeming associating with Ms Keen-Minshull, who he accused of having connections with far-right extremists including Neo-Nazis.

After the Monday Meeting Mr Pesutto said he was “satisfied“ with her address to the party room. “She made clear to the party room today that she has a lot to learn on these things,“ he said. Mr Pesutto said the compromise required Ms Deeming to condemn alleged evidence of extremism by Ms Keen-Minshull and Ms Jones in a dossier complied last week, which he said she has done. Since the rally, the government has indicated

it will formally ban the Nazi salute, expanding on the swastika-banning anti-vilification laws that came into effect last year, which Mr Pesutto and Ms Deeming have voiced support for. “There needs to be reasonable limitations on free speech, and anything, whether it’s a salute or a symbol that has the potential to incite violence,” Mr Pesutto said. “We’ve taken a big strong step today … it was important to deal with this issue now, and we have.“

Grants open for amenities

Ayla, 3, Harvey, 6, Nate, 8, and Eliza, 8, with the Easter bunny. (Damjan Janevski) 324300_01

Easter hops in early at Eynesbury Eynesbury has decided to hop into the April holidays early with a Pre-Easter Sunday Kids Fun Day on Sunday, April 2. Eynesbury Quarter general manager Brad Alton said the Eynesbury team had wanted to ensure as many Melbourne families as possible could take part in the festivities. “Most people make their Easter plans well in advance, but we couldn’t pass up the chance to get kids hunting for eggs and taking part in all sorts of fun activities,” he said. An 10,000-egg Easter egg hunt, egg

and spoon races, and an egg-throwing competition will take place between midday and 2pm at the Eynesbury Homestead. There’ll be loads of prizes on offer, and visits from The Easter Bunny will be visiting throughout the day. At 2pm guests will have the opportunity to grab a bean bag, some popcorn then kick back and enjoy the Easter movie, Hop, which will be showing on the big screen. Local CFA communications officer Jason McEgan is having his head shaved at 4pm on the day in a bid to raise money for the Good

Friday Appeal. After the movie, people can see Mr McEgan arriving on a fire truck sporting his mullet haircut before the big shave. Mr Alton said all of the events on the day are “absolutely free”. “Bring the whole family to enjoy the fun day of activities we have on offer. We’ve got tons of parking, so you don’t have to worry about that,” he said. More information is available on the Eynesbury website. Details: https://eynesbury.com.au/whats-on/ pre-easter-sunday-kids-funday/

The state government has grants open for Melton community groups to build more ammenities for people with disability until April 14. The government is encouraging councils, tourism attractions and destinations, and local not for profit organisations to apply for grants to build Changing Places facilities in Melton. The latest round of grants, valued at up to $180,000 each is aimed at supporting Victoria’s network of Changing Places facilities to continue to grow. Each Changing Place has a height-adjustable, adult-sized changing bench, a tracking hoist system and enough space for two people in order to make community spaces, including popular tourist destinations and events more accessible for people with disability. The Andrews Labor Government’s 2022-2023 State Budget allocated $5.4 million to construct 30 Changing Places facilities. Melton MP Steve McGhie said establishing a local Changing Places facility in Melton will support local jobs and community’s by “making it easier for people who rely on these facilities to visit.“ Victorian Disability Advisory Council Chair Chris Varney said communities must do “everything possible so that people with disability are fully included in all aspects of our community.” The new grant round follows improvements to the national Changing Places website, on which community groups can find the nearest Changing Places facility in Australia and information for organisations wanting to construct a Changing Places facility. Details: changingplaces.org.au or w w w.v ic .gov.au /cha ng i ng-placesfunding-round

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

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Some students find settling into school is not easy With term one of the school year coming to an end, many children have been settling into the school year, while others may have struggled with their transition to a new year level this year. For many students the school day can feel scary and exciting, leaving parents anxious on how to best support their child and encourage them to attend every day, especially if your child is having difficulties. UNSW professor Andrew Martin is an expert in educational psychology and said it’s common for academic adjustment problems to occur in children, but it’s important to understand why. “Is it will, skill, or both?” he questions. “If the problem is will, it refers to the motivation and engagement aspects of school life. “There are positive parts to motivation and engagement, such as self-belief and effort—as well as negative aspects, such as anxiety and procrastination.” Whereas, he said skill refers to a child’s ability to learn and perform at school. “It might be that they have difficulty in understanding information and the key concepts required to engage with a subject,” professor Martin said. “Or, they may have functional problems with things like literacy, numeracy, and even executive functions such as paying attention and focusing. “It is important to identify which aspects the child is struggling with as early as possible because one can impact the other. For example, a student can lose motivation in the face of ongoing reading difficulties.” To further help your child settle in this year,

Many children may still be feeling anxious about the school year ahead, but there are ways to support them. (Taylor Flowe via Unsplash

Deakin University early childhood education lecturer, Dr Charlotte Wilders explains the importance of engaging a child’s voice. “Research focusing on educational transitions has identified that strong relationships between families and teachers are crucial to achieving a successful transition experience,” Dr Wilders said.

She urges parents to assist children who are struggling by supporting them through dialogue with their teachers. “When you share information about your family culture and your child’s interests you effectively enable the teacher to create a learning space which acts as a bridge between home and school,” she said.

“When parents and teachers access children’s voices to determine their interests, individual experiences can be created that improve motivation and lead to a stronger sense of well-being, giving children a strong sense of belonging to their new environment.” Holly McGuinness

Why strong teacher-student relationships are vital A study by Associate Professors Penny Van Bergen and Naomi Sweller of Macquarie University and Professor Linda Graham of QUT shows that students’ memories of good teachers are remarkably consistent, and that strong teacher-student relationships can support positive interactions with future teachers. The research team conducted a series of interviews with 96 students from grades 3-10. They included students with and without a history of disruptive behaviour in mainstream schools, along with students in special “behaviour schools”. What united the groups was a belief that their most positive relationships with teachers came when teachers were “kind, caring, helpful, or humorous”. For students with a history of disruptive behaviour, a kind or caring teacher could make the difference between engaging with their schoolwork and walking out of class. All groups also shared the view that teachers

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St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School Melton South

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

who were hostile or unjust were harder to get along with. Alarmingly, students with a history of disruptive behaviour overwhelmingly remember negative relationships with teachers. For example, one third of students in the behaviour school group couldn’t remember a single positive relationship with a teacher. Conflictual teacher-student relationships were not limited to disruptive students, however. Forty per cent of students with no history of disruptive behaviour also remembered at least one negative relationship. Many of these students were “model” students: prefects, student reps, and school duxes. Students in all groups highlighted pre-emptive reprimands, when they were told off before doing something, as being particularly unfair. The researchers do note that this is only one side of the story, and that teachers may have a different view. These results are still important though, since they show how consistent students’ perceptions of positive and negative

Positive interactions with teachers help students feel confident at school.

relationships are. They also indicate the ways that poor teacher-student relationships can exacerbate classroom challenges. “Using their memories of conflictual interactions, students may develop protective strategies: either shying away from that teacher

or reacting with pre-emptive aggression,” the article says. The study authors recommend that teachers complement other positive teaching behaviours, such as responsive instruction and individual guidance, with explicit warmth. In the classroom, teachers could reflect on positive interactions with their students by sharing positive memories or identifying each other’s positive characteristics. Similar activities are used in positive psychological interventions to improve student wellbeing. They also recommend professional learning to help teachers better manage the emotional pressures of classroom teaching. School counsellors have a role, too, and can help students to reappraise their past relationships with teachers. This should help ensure that ambiguous teacher actions aren’t misinterpreted, and positive actions aren’t overlooked.

2024 Enrolments open 3rd April 2023, close 23rd June 2023 Enrolment Tours Wednesday 17th May and Tuesday 23rd May. Bookings are essential.

Please contact our office 8099 7800 or refer to our website www.sameltonsth.catholic.edu.au for an enrolment form and details regarding zoning and our enrolment policy.

STAR WEEKLY FEATURE

Meet the Principal Phillipa Griffiths

Lochlan Carlyle

It is a privilege to be the principal of the diverse and vibrant community of Copperfield College. At Copperfield our mission is to ‘empower every student to aspire and achieve’. Our belief is that every student can progress, regardless of their starting point and this is reflected in our values of Collaboration, Inclusiveness and Growth.

Our schools mission is to prepare young people to become active, engaged and responsible citizens of the local and global community. At Ballan Primary School we offer an attractive, safe and welcoming learning environment for all students. Building positive relationships with our families is at the centre of all our work.

As principal, I bring broad experience to the college and its community. My commitment to state education is demonstrated by the fact that I have dedicated my working life to it. I have worked at the principal level at rural and regional schools as well as a manager at a TAFE college.

Our goal is to create an environment that recognises the unique stages of development and provides appropriate child-centred experiences based on the Victorian Curriculum. When developing programs, our teachers take into account the whole child and their individual learning needs. Literacy and numeracy are our key foci, while also placing high importance on other areas of the curriculum such as Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Instrumental Music, Science, Physical Education and Japanese.

Copperfield College’s commitment to creating sustainable pathways for the broad range of students we cater to is reflected in our VCE outcomes in both the academic and applied learning strands. We have dedicated Pathways staff who follow students from junior to senior levels. We have a range of well-being staff, two psychologists, two social workers and Mental Health Practitioners to complement our student management structures. We can offer the broadest range of subjects at the senior years in our area, because of the number of families who choose Copperfield College as their school of choice.

Our dedicated teaching team engages children in stimulating and meaningful learning while always promoting the social and emotional development of each child. All classes provide an environment that reflects the children’s needs and interests, while promoting individual student voice, choice and contentedness

Sydenham Junior Campus Community Hub Sydenham | 9361 3888

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Kings Park Junior Campus Kambalda Circuit Kings Park | 9365 4111

COPPERFIELD COLLEGE

BALLAN PRIMARY SCHOOL

Goldsmith Avenue Delahey Phone 9307 5555 | copperfieldcollege.vic.edu.au

Ballan Primary School No. 1435, 8 - 14 Duncan Street, Ballan, Victoria, 3342

Phone 5368 1072 | www.ballanps.vic.edu.au

Marlene Jorgensen

Andrew A. Neal

Marlene Jorgensen joined St Francis Catholic College (formerly Catholic Regional College Melton) in 2020.

I commenced at Bacchus Marsh Grammar in 1998. Over the past twenty five years, the school has grown from a small school servicing Bacchus Marsh to one of the largest schools in the state providing a quality education to those to the west of Melbourne. The school believes strongly in providing students with a calm, structured and rigorous approach to their studies. It is focussed on academic achievement, partnered by programs that enrich student development and wellbeing – in short, an Education for Life.

Marlene was previously the Deputy Principal of Learning and Teaching at St Peter’s College in Cranbourne and prior at St Mary MacKillop College in Canberra, undertaking a wide variety of curriculum and wellbeing leadership roles. In the past four years, enrolments at the College have grown exponentially and have necessitated the development of a second campus at Cobblebank. This year the College moved to a two-campus structure under the new name of St Francis Catholic College. The rich legacy of the past 43 years provides the building blocks for a new and distinctive future for the College.

A particularly exciting development at the school is the decision to extend the Woodlea Campus in Aintree to Year 12 over the next four years. This will provide more opportunities for students to obtain a Bacchus Marsh Grammar education closer to their homes. The new program as well as providing a general pathway to VCE has specialist pathways that enable students to accelerate their senior studies and achieve the Victorian Baccalaureate.

In these days of hyper-change and disruption, the very purpose of education is changing. At St Francis Catholic College, we believe teaching students to flourish in an ever-changing world is critical to their wellbeing. Studies have shown that good relationships are the key to thriving in this new and emerging environment.

Bacchus Marsh Grammar has become the largest primary and education provider in the west of Melbourne because of a commitment to excellence and innovation. That tradition continues and makes Bacchus Marsh Grammar the school of choice for so many families.

ST FRANCIS CATHOLIC COLLEGE Melton Campus 109-141 Bulmans Road, West Melton Cobblebank Campus Bridge Road, Cobblebank Phone 8099 6000 | sfcc.vic.edu.au

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To support the development of positive relationships, St Francis Catholic College divides its students into eight House groups. Students remain in these House groups during their six years at the College, enabling them to build strong bonds with their Mentors and House Leaders.

BACCHUS MARSH GRAMMAR Maddingley Campus - South Maddingley Road, Bacchus Marsh, VIC 3340 Phone 03 5366 4800

Woodlea Campus - 111 Frontier Avenue, Aintree (Rockbank), VIC 3336 Phone 03 5366 4900 | www.bmg.vic.edu.au 202206151458_1-AV25-22

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

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Community grants final week Moorabool council is calling all local non-profit community groups. Council’s Community Grants Program closes at midnight on Friday March 31. The program offers more than $270,000 annually. Check out the different types of funding streams available and get in touch with council to discuss your application. Details: https://www.moorabool. vic.gov.au/Services-and-support/ Community/Grants/Community-Grants

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Melton’s CFA/VFBV State Firefighter Champs. (Provided)

Melton state champs Melton has taken the top spot in the Senior division of the 2023 Firefighter State Championships, and won the Urban Junior division for the third year running. The event, which is run by the CFA in partnership with Volunteer Fire Brigades Victoria (VFBV), sees teams compete in events based on practical fire fighting activities, with the focus on physical fitness, teamwork and equipment skills using hoses, hydrants, and more. The senior competition ran from March 25 to 26, and Urban Junior competition events ran from March 18 through until the afternoon March 19 in Maroopna. Melton A coach and junior leader Anthony Rhodes said the team didn’t take anything for granted. “This was our toughest year. We had a very young side and they put in a great effort,” he said.

“We certainly didn’t think it was a done deal going into the weekend. We had three teams in every age group and always try to develop the kids every year. “Our motto is ‘we don’t own the jumper’. What we mean by that is the kids get the opportunity to create history and then they pass the jumper down to the next person.” CFA deputy chief officer Jean Dyzel said Championships are an important tradition for members. “I’d particularly like to acknowledge the impact of the 2022 Victorian floods on the local community and thank them for once again welcoming us to Shepparton and Mooroopna,” she said. “The State Championships are not only important to our juniors, they are a highlight of the CFA annual calendar.” The Melton Juniors team has won four of the last five competitions.

Lakeside Alive is returning to Lake Caroline, Caroline Springs on Saturday, April 1. The free event kicks off a schedule jam-packed with family friendly activities at noon. Guests can experience a range of musical performances, a car show, roving performers, a puppy-pit stop, a kidies corner, food trucks, and a firework event to close the show at 8pm.

New Moorabool citizens Moorabool mayor Rod Ward will host an Australian Citizenship Ceremony on Monday, April 3 at 6pm. As part of the ceremony. 26 adults and four children will receive official Australian Citizenship.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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

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8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

Advertising feature

Operation Nexus will be focused on Easter road safety Operation Nexus is a statewide road policing operation over the Easter holiday period. It aims to increase driver awareness and journey planning, while reducing road trauma during this high-risk time on our roads. This five-day road policing enforcement campaign will run from Thursday, April 6 to Monday, April 10. Westgate highway patrol road policing advisor, Sergeant Marty Wallace, said the operation will be conducted throughout all operational police regions and police service areas during the five days, using all available personnel from local road policing units, general duties and other regional resources. The police operation will be targeting the main causes of lives lost and serious injuries in crashes which are impaired driving, speed, fatigue, distraction offences and seatbelt compliance “Police will be out in force both to educate drivers and to enforce road rules, with a view to preventing lives lost and serious injuries. We’re watching your speed. Are you?”, Sergeant Wallace said. Motorists are requested to stay within the speed limit, don’t drink alcohol or take drugs and drive, leave your mobile phone out of reach, wear your seatbelt and make sure you are well rested. Fatigue is one of the biggest killers on Victorian roads. Drivers are requested to plan their trip, be patient and ensure that you take at least a 15 minute break every two hours and don’t drive if you are tired. Drivers planning to travel during this period can expect to see an increase in vehicles on our major freeways and highways throughout the state. Road trauma isn’t just about the lives that are lost – it’s about the enormous impact on the community from the family members, to

Sergeant Marty Wallace and senior sergeant Andrew Whelan. (Damjan Janevski) 321490)91

the emergency services workers who have to deal with these tragedies on a daily basis, and the police who have to deliver the devastating news to loved ones. All of the community has a responsibility and a role to play in reducing road trauma. Remember, travel safely so that you arrive at your destination safely and enjoy your Easter Holiday weekend. RoadSafe Westgate community road safety council chairman Jim Giddings said it has been demonstrated time after time that speed is a contributing factor in most road crashes.

Therefore stay within the speed limit and drive to suit the conditions you face. Speeding affects both the risk of a crash happening and the severity of injuries sustained when a crash does happen, he said. Mr Giddings said the work of his group along with initiatives like Operation Nexus during the 2023 Easter Holiday period would hopefully reduce the number of serious road crashes. He asked the community to report speeding drivers to Crime stoppers on 1800 333 000 If you plan to have a drink, then plan not

to drive. Taking a big risk like drinking and driving is just not worth endangering your life or the lives of other road users, Mr Giddings said, Holiday driving has its challenges and drivers should drive in the hours they are normally awake, take regular breaks to reduce fatigue and allow extra space between vehicles. Drivers need to adapt to the conditions of the road. The onus is always on the driver to suit the conditions they are facing, and that includes the quality of the road, he said.

DRIVING IS NOT A GAME! SPEED KILLS! Don’t make a Grave Mistake Speed is the largest single factor in fatal road crashes on our roads. RoadSafe Westgate and your local council support reporting speeding drivers to Crime Stoppers.

REPORT SPEEDING DRIVERS

1800 333 000 RoadSafe Westgate Community Road Safety Council is a road safety advocacy group that implements road safety programs and is supported by the municipalities of Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melton and Wyndham. 1092275-HM38-13 1204680-HM44-15

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

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28 March 2023

STAY INFORMED Mayor’s message Cr Lara Carli This month marks two important days in our calendar – both about being proactive about building more welcoming and inclusive spaces for everyone. Last week we celebrated Harmony Day and the unique values, skills and customs people from all backgrounds bring to our city, while on Sunday, Neighbour Day was a chance to address loneliness and encourage everyone to build social connections and check in on neighbours. I hope everyone takes an opportunity this week to reflect on what we can do to make our homes, communities, schools and workplaces friendlier, more welcoming and inclusive places. The end of March also means it’s already time for Lakeside Alive! – Caroline Spring’s big community festival. Back and bigger than ever, it’s a free, family-friendly, fun-filled day. We’ll have a range of food trucks serving yummy treats and some great live music performing all day. So come down to Lake Caroline this Saturday 1 April from 12pm to 8pm for a great day out. I would also like to wish Allan Godfrey a very happy 100th birthday. Allan is a western suburbs veteran and member of the Caroline Springs RSL. On reaching such a significant milestone I would like to thank Allan for his contribution to our community, and his dedicated and gallant service in our armed forces. 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

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

A better place for food waste

Pyrrhic Victory exhibition on now! A new exhibition ‘Pyrrhic Victory’ highlights the conflicting relationship between human needs and the needs of nature and is on display now at Melton Library.

Did you know you can free up space in your red bin and help reduce landfill by putting food scraps in your green bin?

Delving into complex themes such as habitat destruction, wildlife and disrupting natural cycles, these works ask us what the cost of continuous expansion on our natural environment is.

Our ‘Food Organics, Garden Organics (FOGO)’ service allows you to dispose of loose (not bagged) scraps into your green bin. Instead of using plastic or compostable bags which cannot be processed with the compost material, bins can be lined with newspaper, paper towel, or garden clippings.

Pyrrhic Victory is on display until 15 June.

Register your pet Don’t forget, domestic pet registrations are due on 10 April. All cats and dogs over three months old need to be microchipped and registered with Council.

Fruit and vegetable scraps, eggshells, meat, bones and leftovers are all accepted in the green bin, together with garden waste such as grass clippings, small branches and weeds.

You can renew pet registrations online or register a new pet at melton.vic.gov.au/petrego

Find out more at melton.vic.gov.au/FOGO

Have fun these autumn school holidays! With the autumn school holidays approaching, now’s the perfect time to book your kids into our exciting holiday activities! We have everything from rockets, racers, virtual reality, science and engineering games, easter crafts, sports days, dance classes and more. Details and bookings at melton.vic.gov.au/schoolholidays

Cambridge Ward with Cr Kathy Majdlik Visit melton.vic.gov.au/ lakesidealive for more information or follow Melton City Major Events on Facebook @MeltonCityEvents

This Saturday 1 April, the banks of Lake Caroline will come to life when we get together and enjoy the festivities at Lakeside Alive! Back and bigger than ever, this free, fun-filled day features a range of great activities, food trucks and live music performances. You can enjoy our Puppy Pit Stop with a photobooth, caricature artist, and free microchipping; enjoy the Kiddie Korner with silent disco, musical garden, and face painting; stroll through the car show; and marvel at the twilight fireworks.

Last Sunday, I had the pleasure of celebrating the 100th birthday of local resident and World War II veteran, Allan Godfrey. A member of the Caroline Springs RSL, Allan has served both our country, and this community, with passion, dedication, and good humour. It was an honour to share this special occasion with him and his wonderful friends and family; and I’d like to congratulate Allan and thank

him for his service. Finally, with the Easter break and school holidays fast approaching, I’d like to urge everyone to be safe and vigilant on our roads. If the kids are looking for something to do, remember Council offers an exciting range of school holiday activities for young people of all ages. Visit melton. vic.gov.au for information and booking details. You can contact me regarding any Council related matters. I can be contacted via email at kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.

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 12587365-JW13-23

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

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NEWS

MY PLACE Jono Ingram is behind two environmental social enterprises in the City of Melton - We Love Aintree and Eat Grow Garden.

Jono Ingram in his community garden. (Damjan Janevski) 324318_02

together to live sustainably, minimise their carbon footprint, so that we tackle climate change and become a region which is leading the way in environmentally sustainable living. What do you like about where you live? I love the different people who call our neighbourhood, and the wider City of Melton home. We have such diversity in culture and experiences which make learning from each other such an exciting thing. I also love the fact that our city is so close to some amazing

natural places, like Lerderderg State Park and Werribee Gorge, as well as having some of our own beautiful river and creek systems running through our communities. Where is your favourite local place to spend time? Just out the back of Melton, at the top of Coburns Road is Mount Sugarloaf... I love going out here and spending time in the bush. At a more local level in Aintree, I love going around the Deanside Wetlands at sunrise or

sunset and hanging out with the kangaroos, ducks and swans watching the sky as it changes colour. Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. I am a keen trail runner and try to get out into some forests, hills or mountains to run trails every weekend. I’m currently training for my first ultra marathon in May, a 47km trail run around Wilsons Prom.

The Autumn Edition of your favourite family magazine is out now... Pick up a printed copy of Kids West Today Magazine from outlets everywhere. Or, read the full digital edition as it appears in print now!

Read it now Scan the QR CODE

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Tell us a bit about you and what you do? I am a keen veggie gardener and I am passionate about empowering communities of people to look after the environment, grow their own food, and take care of the place they live. Eat Grow Garden is a social enterprise which supports community environment education and awareness initiatives. Eat Grow Garden builds edible gardens and veggie patches in homes, schools, and community gardens, and we also build native landscapes that create habitat for bees, birds, insects and other native animals. Through We Love Aintree, I am currently busy designing and building the new Aintree Community Garden, which will be a place of education and awareness around issues of environment, climate change, food growing, and sustainability. I also run environment and sustainability workshops with schools and Early Learning Centres, and help people to think about living more sustainably by growing their own food, caring for local natural ecosystems, and thinking about waste, pollution and in particular plastic waste. We’ve also helped the community take action through Community Clean Up Days and we have helped communities plant more than 8000 trees, grasses and shrubs through community plantings in Aintree. What’s your connection to Aintree and Melton? I have lived in Aintree since 2018, and our social enterprises were founded in Aintree and work closely with other residents in the City Melton, and some of the surrounding areas as well. I want to see the City of Melton and the western suburbs of Melbourne as a place where communities are working

OR VISIT: kidswest.com.au/digital-editions Tuesday, 28 March, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

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A history of murder and madness A Moorabool historian has spent half of the last century collating information about the history of Blackwood, a town near the north-west corner for the Lerderderg State Park. Margot Hitchcock has documented a rich history of an early Victorian mining town, but old newspaper documents also uncovered a striking tale of madness and murder that Ms Hitchcock has dubbed “The Billy Pincombe Tragedy”, as Liam McNally discovers.

“S

he kept repeating the biblical injunction, ‘If thy right hand offends thee, cut it off – my right hand hath offended me.’ “She was found in the yard later with an axe in her left hand and her right hand severed at the wrist.” This is how The Leader newspaper described an incident involving Annie Pincombe in an article from over 100 years ago. Ms Pincombe was a resident of Blackwood as the town was winding down from the gold-mining boom it was built on. In 1906 she was incarcerated at a nearby “lunatic asylum”. Her husband, gold-miner Billy Pincombe, blamed the local preacher Harold Robinson, for his wife’s diagnosis of “religious mania”. At noon on Friday June 19, 1908, Mr Robinson was pacing on the verandah of his vicarage next to All Saints Anglican Church in Blackwood reading a religious text – On Faith and the Creed by C.A. Heurtley.

‘‘

I thought it was my job to let it be known what happened, to keep our - Margot Hitchcock history alive

’’

All the while, Mr Pincombe, a “crack shot” of the Blackwood Rifle Club, lay on his bed in his house opposite, with his gun aimed through a partially opened window. When Mr Pincombe let his shot fly, the bullet pierced the preacher’s book and came to rest in his heart. Mr Robinson died reading St Augustine’s Sermon to Catechumens, containing the prophetic lines of the “quick and the dead... He doth judge both, giving to each their due reward”. Shortly after a shootout occurred between Mr Picombe and police constable Charles Saunders. The encounter left the constable with a bullet wound in his shoulder, and Mr Pincombe was shot in the head. Mr Pincombe died of his wound six days later on June 25, 1908. On the same day as Mr Pincombe’s death The Age reported on the “exceptional courage” of the police officer “in confronting a man such as Mr Pincombe”, and on July 10 constable Suanders received a Valour Medal and £50. This dramatic sequence of events is the centre of a book by Blackwood historian Margot Hitchcock, The Billy Pincombe Tragedy, who said she felt it was “a story that had to be told”. “It’s like Captain Moonlite, Ned Kelly, All these stories if they’re not told, they’re lost in time. I thought it was my job to let it be known what happened, to keep our history alive,” she said. Ms Hitchcock’s connection to Blackwood began with her holidaying at a house her grandfather had built there in 1929. In 1973 Ms Hitchcock was a founding member of the Blackwood Historical Society that converted the old Blackwood police stables into the Police Stable Museum. On March 11 the historical society, which Ms Hitchcock is the last original member of, celebrated its 50th anniversary. The museum opened to the public for its birthday, and displayed The Billy Pincombe Tragedy, along with a surviving artefact from the episode – the preacher’s religious text with a bullet hole in its centre. Ms Hitchcock, who is now 83 years old, said she is still “passionate” about her role as Blackwood’s historian. She said the story of Blackwood is one of a 12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

Main: Blackwood Historical Society secretary Elizabeth Hall. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 325268

Left: Margot Hitchcock at the 2014 launch of her book in the Blackwood Museum with Stuart Duff (left), who launched the book, and Margot’s son Philip Hitchcock. (Supplied) Below: The book that preacher Harold Robinson was holding when he was shot dead in Blackwood in 1908.

19th century gold rush town that has slowly transitioned into a luscious holiday destination, with a “tremendous community” keeping it going at its core. “I just love the history of the area … I’m on my computer every day,” she said. Ms Hitchcock said she met a man at the historical society’s 50th anniversary who said his great, great grandfather, Henry Lawson, lived in Blackwood. Ms Hitchcock was able to find that Mr Lawson died in Blackwood in 1855 and has one of the oldest headstones in the town, and was able to direct the grandson to his ancestors gravesite. “It’s exciting, when I find something that’s

rewarding or something that’s interesting to somebody else, I feel really happy that I can do that,” she said. “I had a stroke 14 years ago and when I was in rehab I asked to use their computer, and I think that it’s what got my brain going again, because it made me think.” Ms Hitchock has another book, a 700 page epic titled Blackwood History and Pioneers. She said she is unsure how she is going to publish it, but wants the story told. “I don’t want it to be not published when I’m gone, I want it to be there for the people to know all the history I’ve researched,” she said. The display Tragedy of Billy Pincombe Display will be available to the public over

Easter weekend during the Blackwood Woodchop and Easter Carnival. The Blackwood Historical Society will be holding stalls on Saturday, April 9, and opening the Police Stable Museum, with the Pincombe display, on Sunday, April 10, from 10am to 1pm. Historical society secretary Elizabeth Hall said getting up close to the bullet-holed book is “surreal”. “It’s intriguing just to think that something like that happened in Blackwood,” she said. “Blackwood is a lovely place to come to, and it has got so much history, and we really need to keep this history going, we don’t want to shut it away.”

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NEWS

Campaign to cool rental homes By Liam McNally Sweltering Cities has launched a new campaign to advocate for heatwave resistant rental homes, which the group said is especially important in high urban heat island suburbs such as Melton and Brimbank. Sweltering Cities executive director Emma Bacon said the state government had recently overhauled minimum standards for renters which included blinds for privacy and heaters for winter but nothing about making sure that homes are cool in the summer. “We know that each summer we’re seeing these unprecedented temperatures and that the coming summers are going to be the hottest of

our lives,” she said. Rising temperatures are felt most in areas such as Melton and Brimbank, which are considered “urban heat islands”, areas that get hotter than the rest of the city due to factors such as low vegetation cover, lots of concrete and dark surfaces. A 2018 government report said the urban heat island effect can see temperatures in Melton and Brimbank reach more than 10 degrees higher than the baseline temperature. Ms Bacon said the environmental aspects are exacerbated by housing that is not equipped to deal with heatwaves, and that according to the National House Energy Rating System

(NatHers) the average star rating for homes across Victoria is 1.8 out of ten. “So we know that the quality of housing is not good enough when it comes to protecting people from the elements and people living in these hot urban heat island suburbs like Melton and Brimbank are going to be even more affected.” According to Sweltering Cities, raising the average rating to 5.4 would reduce heat related deaths by 90 per cent. Sweltering Cities had its first meeting for the campaign on March 16, and is in the process of organising another after Easter. Ms Bacon said the best way to get involved and stay informed about campaign updates

is through signing the group’s petition online. “All Victorians, no matter if they rent or own, should be safe in their homes during a heatwave. At the moment there is limited protection to make sure that happens so we think there should be a change in laws for renters to make sure that they are safe in their homes during heatwaves,” she said. The state government was contacted for comment. Details: https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/ we-need-safe-homes-put-cooling-in-victoriasrental-minimum-standards

School land secured is home to 800 families, with 4400 families expected to live there upon completion. The new school will be located on the corner of Trickett Drive and Clara Avenue, Truganina, and in the heart of the Mt Atkinson Education and Recreation Precinct. This is the first of three schools which have been proposed for Mt Atkinson. Stockland senior development manager Anthony Scafidi said the team iwas excited to see the Victorian School Board Authority commit to building a state primary school for the growing Mt Atkinson community. “As the Mt Atkinson community expands, so do the educational needs of families from kindergarten through to high school. This announcement means children can be taught close by, enabling them to walk or ride to school should they choose,” he said. A construction timeline for the school is yet to be confirmed.

Mt Atkinson residents and Stockland team members at the site of the proposed school. (Provided)

12544962-AV15-22

A new primary school is one step closer for Mt Atkinson after the state government acquired 3.5 hectares of land from Stockland. Education Minister Natalie Hutchins announced on March 20 the state government had acquired land in Truganina for Tarneit Plains Primary School (interim name). Tarneit Plains Primary School is one of the 100 schools that will open as part of the state government’s commitment to deliver 100 new schools by 2026. Ms Hutchins said the land acquisition “represents another investment in kids in Melbourne’s west, ensuring local kids and families have access to better schools and resources close to home”. Stockland Mt Atkinson welcomed the purchase of land by the Victorian School Board Authority for the building of a future primary school within its community. Mt Atkinson

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

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

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 meet every Thursday from 5pm to 8pm at Arnolds Creek Children’s and Community Centre, 19 Claret Ash Boulevard, Harkness. Focusing on Senior Men’s mental and physical wellbeing. Join the group for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including carpet bowls, pool or table tennis. ■ 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 This week’s photographers choice is Kiara, 10, and Bridie, 8, enjoying the sunflowers at Bolwarrah Springs. (Damjan Janevski) 324710_01

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

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

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

U3A Melton U3A Melton offers among its activities a book group, Australian history and a gentle exercise class for those 55 and over who are retired or semi-retired who wish to stay mentally and physically active. ■ 0419 563 016

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

Melton South Knit & Natter All are welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa. ■ 9747 8576 14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

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 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 Cycling Club Melton Cycling Club meets for regular Sunday rides. There are three different riding groups to cater for different abilities

starting at 7.30am. The rides finish at Lazy Moe’s for a cuppa. ■ 0403 057 003

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

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

■ https://63ec55b8628d6.site123.me/

First Aid Courses Melton South Community Centre is now taking enrolments for First Aid courses running on Saturday April 1. People needing to obtain or renew a certificate can book into Perform CPR (HLTAID009), Provide First Aid (HLTAID011) or Provide an Emergency First Aid Response in an Education & Care Setting (HLTAID012). For enrolments and more information, including prices, times and course components, call the centre. ■ 9747 8576

Power-saving bonus Melton South Community Centre is here to help anybody wanting to apply for the Victorian Government’s $250 Power Saving Bonus payment. Free 30-minute appointments are available on Wednesday afternoons; call the centre for available dates and times. ■ 9747 8576

Gardening group Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh make reusable shopping bags from rescued fabric. They need people to cut, sew, iron and market our bags. The group meets on the first Sunday each month at Darley Neighbourhood House 2pm-5pm. Find out more details on Facebook group their website.

The Melton South Community Centre’s gardening group meets on the 4th Thursday of each month, and is always on the hunt for new volunteers. Work together to maintain and cultivate the centre’s Community Garden area, and enjoy seeing your efforts pay off. ■ Call Trinity on 9361 9300 or contact the centre on 9747 8576

PUZZLES 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

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

5 1 4 3

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

People from Bagdad, Mosul etc. (6) Written words (8) Grub (5) Used to restrain criminals (9) Genius plural (5) Buttress (9) Plant yielding fragrant oil (8) Asserts the truth of it (6) Country of mounties (6) Confirming (8) From Oslo, e.g. (9) 'I don’t know' (colloq) (5) Particular events (9) Japanese camera company (5) Prize (8) Slows (6)

1 4 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 18 23 24 26 27 28 29

No. 126

Against the law (7) Brother of Moses (Biblical) (5) From Rome or Florence (7) Sour (6) Discreet (7) Egyptian queen (9) Siblings (7) Steed (5) Anatomical chamber of the heart (9) Monarch’s spouse (7) Clothes (7) Tips (5) Rhythm (7) Reasons (7) Diligence (6) Finnish phone maker (5)

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 10 14 16 17 19 20 21 22 25

DECODER

No. 126

5 2

6 9 4

6 5 9 4 4 5

3 8 4

5 6 2 1 hard

6 1 2 6 8

9 4 1 8 1 9

5 3

10 11 12 13

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

Q V

2 6

L T C P A U Y H B S I QV

3 LETTERS ALE ARE AWE DUO DYE EEL EKE ERA GNU HER HUH IDS LSD MEN NET NUN OUT PRO SUE TIP TOE TOO VAN VIE

ARENA AREN’T ARISE AROMA ASSET AURAL AWAKE AWARE CAPER CARTS CHAPS COURT EDGED EERIE ELITE ELUDE ENEMA ERODE HALLS LEADS LEAPT MEDIA

Today’s Aim: 17 words: Good 25 words: Very good

4 LETTERS BETS BOOS CAME CASE CATS GENT HEED LADE LESS PASS SNAP SOUP SWAN WEED 5 LETTERS ALERT APPLE

MELON OPTIC PACES PANDA PAPAS PAPER PATES PIPES RATES RENTS ROSES SANDY SECTS SELLS SLATE SLOPE STALL START SUAVE TEENS THETA TREAD

TWINE USERS VENUE WIPER 6 LETTERS SERVED SERVER SPURTS UPROAR

7 LETTERS APPLAUD ARSENAL ENTAILS INTENSE REDHEAD RORTING 8 LETTERS DETERRED DWINDLES RELENTED TRIALLED

31-03-23

No. 126 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

N E E R L V E

R A P E I N E N S K E D

achy, ARCHETYPE, chary, cheery, creepy, crypt, cypher, earthy, eatery, eyre, harpy, hearty, party, patchy, payee, payer, peachy, pray, preachy, prey, pyre, racy, repay, retype, teary, therapy, they, tray, trey, type, tyre, yacht, yachter, year

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

G L A

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

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

K E

E E

A I

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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”.

34 words: Excellent

hard

medium

9-LETTER WORD

No. 126

6 8 $ 9 (

N O D F MW X K J G Z E R

2 9 3 6 9 5 easy

5x5

1 8 7 9 6 4

WORDFIT

QUICK QUIZ

Which storyteller is the fable The Tortoise and the Hare attributed to?

Who directed the films Boyz n the Hood and Higher Learning?

In which decade was The Taming of the Shrew by William Shakespeare written?

The Ganges river, Meghna river and Brahmaputra river all flow into which bay?

What was Madonna’s (pictured) seventh studio album, released in the US on March 3, 1998?

In what year did Barack Obama become president?

According to NASA, how many confirmed moons does Jupiter have?

How many teams play in the Australian Football League?

Which band released the albums Adrenaline and Around the Fur?

10 Gangkhar Puensum is the highest mountain in which landlocked Asian country?

ANSWERS: 1. Aesop 2. 1590s 3. Ray of Light 4. 95 5. 18 6. Deftones 7. John Singleton 8. Bay of Bengal 9. 2009 10. Bhutan

No. 126

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

SUDOKU

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12. Eighteen-year-old tennis star Carlos Alcaraz defeated which player to win the 2023 Indian Wells tournament?

2. Reigning premiers Geelong were beaten by how many points in their round one game against Collingwood?

4. In skateboarding, what is it called when you pop the tail of the board off the ground and get air?

13. Which F1 racer recently spoke out about being hesitant to race in Saudi Arabia?

5. Melbourne United captain Chris Goulding is currently playing basketball in which country?

14. In which year was the sports comedy soccer film Bend it Like Beckham released?

Marcus Stoinis

15. What is the sports term for teams playing against each other who dislike each other?

6. Who won the Australian Open women's singles title in 2014?

16. Which professional soccer team did Englishman Joe Lolley play for prior to joining Sydney FC?

7. North Melbourne's Nick Larkey kicked how many goals in the Kangaroos' opening game of the AFL season?

17. In pickleball, what is the two metre space on each side of the net where players aren’t allowed to hit a volley return more commonly referred to as?

8. Who won the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix? 9. Which recently retired Australian men's cricketer played 22 years of state cricket?

18. The film Air, set to be released in April 2023, centres around which NBA star?

10. The Wests Tigers nearly staged a comeback in their game against the Bulldogs when they scored how many tries in four minutes?

22. Who defended his UFC Welterweight Championship title by defeating Nigerian mixed martial artist Kamaru Usman at UFC 286? 23. After every victory, which NBA team launches a purple beam of light from the roof of their arena up into the sky? 24. Which national team defeated Australia 4-3 in the quarterfinals of the 2023 World Baseball Classic?

19. What are the Brisbane Lions’ team colours?

27. Which Tasmania-born former Australian captain retired from cricket after playing 35 Tests and 35 One Day Internationals? 28. The Final Four stage of the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament is set to be held in which US city? 29. Which horse won the 2023 All-Star Mile? 30. Which college team was ranked number one in the preseason, but did not qualify for the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament?

25. Which horse won the 2023 Golden Slipper Stakes?

20. Which Formula 1 legend died in February this year, at the age of 80?

11. Which AFL teams faced off in a nail-biting draw in round one?

21. Which two teams qualified to face off in the 2023 WNBL Grand Final Series?

26. Harry Sheezel plays for which AFL club?

Carlos Alcaraz 3103

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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

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•

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

Darley Bacchus Marsh Gold Club Links Road

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Darley Vans Milk Bar 1 Sheldon Ave

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

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Diggers Rest Pharmacy 2 Farm Road

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Melton Toyota 143-147 High Street

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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

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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

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Gordon Post Office 65 Main Street

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Morgans Supa IGA 335-345 High Street

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

Melton MGS Melton 358 High Street

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Melton South Station Square Shopping Centre 25 Station Road

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Bacchus Marsh Stockdale and Leggo Real Estate 191 Main Street

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Harkness Foodworks 17 Claret Ash Boulevard

Bacchus Marsh Milk Bar the Avenue 208 Main Street

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Hillside Foodworks 595 Melton Highway

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Melton Pharmacy Superstore 383-385 High Street

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

Bacchus Marsh Bacchus Marsh Information Centre 215 Main Street

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Hillside United Petroleum Hillside 821-899 Melton Highway

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Melton NQR Melton 405-407 High Street

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

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Bacchus Marsh The Village Shopping Centre Main Street

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

Melton FoodWorks Shop 1, 415-429 High Street

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

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Bacchus Marsh Laurels Education & Training 229 Main Street

Melton Woodgrove Shopping Centre 533-555 High Street

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Kurunjang Kirkton Drive Milk Bar 203 Gisborne - Melton Road

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Myriong Plough Inn Hotel/Motel 17 Main Street

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Kurunjang Village Store 51 Kurunjang Drive

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

Rockbank Newsagency 1157 Leakes Road

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Maddingley Bacchus Marsh West Golf Club Bacchus Marsh-Ballan Road

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

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Taylors Hill Gilson College 450 Taylors Road

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Toolern Vale General Store 1486 Diggers Rest-Coimadai Road

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

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MOTOR

The new Nissan Pathfinder discovers new ways to SUV opponents. (Pictures: Supplied)

Nissan wagon finds its own path By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring How things change. Take the Nissan Pathfinder, for example, that over almost 40 years found its way from being a basic two-door compact wagon, through a big boofy 4x4, to the smart, sophisticated seven (or eight) seater sports utility vehicle of today. Originally designed for the North American market, the initial Pathfinder was the first of the segment to be offered in two-wheel drive guise. The fith generation has landed Down Under with new-found modern design and a stack of high-tech features and safety systems, albeit on a platform and with a V6 engine, developments of the superseded model. The continuous variable transmission has been let behind in favour of a new nine-speed auto. Three variants - ST, Ti and Ti-L - only are on offer in a mix of front and all-wheel drive. Diesel or hybrid options, unlike from rival carmakers such as Hyundai, Kia and Toyota, are not on the cards. Prices have gone up considerably, starting at $54,190, plus on-road costs, for the entry-level ST 2WD model, while the range topper signs off at $77,890 without ORCs. However, where the Pathfinder finds its appeal is the offer of two seating configurations, for seven or eight. The standard three-row set-up is for eight, but stretch to the Ti-L and get into a pair of luxurious leather captain’s chairs mid cabin separated by removable centre console storage. The test vehicle, a Ti 4WD costing $70,030, plus on-roads, came as an eight-seater with a 60:40 split second-row reclining bench. Access to the back twin seats is a doddle, even for grown-ups, with a one-touch button automatically flipping and folding the second row out of the way. All Pathfinders are covered by a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty with round-the-clock roadside assistance for the same period.

Styling At more than five metres long the new Pathfinder has had its dated hard edges

Safety

smoothed out, replaced by a thoroughly modern SUV-cum-coupe shape able to take up to eight people in comfort. With black side moulding and body coloured door handles and black painted roof, highlights include chrome window surrounds and silver roof rails. The front carries on the Nissan V-Motion theme with a large grille flanked by LED automatic headlamps, daytime running lights and foglamps. Out back are the slimmest LED tail lamps, plus a high-mounted stop light. Each external rear vision mirror incorporates a turn signal. Privacy glass is fitted to second row and rear windows, while 205 litres of luggage space is let with all seats in place and 54 litres under floor, leaving room only for a temporary spare wheel.

The Ti features front parking sensors, a surround-view monitor and Nissan’s ProPilot semi-autonomous driver assist system that connects the adaptive cruise control with stop / start and lane keeping aid. Other features include autonomous emergency braking with junction, pedestrian and cyclist detection, rear AEB, rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot warning and intelligent blind spot intervention, rear seat alert, a driver alert, traffic sign recognition and trailer sway control. Front seat airbags, side airbags (driver and passenger, second row outboard), front row far side airbag (centre), side curtain airbags (all rows) all helped the SUV earn a five-star safety rating recently.

Driving Interior Quality fit and finish are trademarks of the cabin. Black leather-accented seat and door trim is joined by a similar set-up steering wheel, the latter with tilt and telescopic adjustment. Up front is a 10-way power driver seat and six-way manual passenger seat. The front and second row outboard positions are heated. Child restraint anchorages with second row outboard seats with ISOFIX and tether, centre seat with tether and third row let side with ISOFIX and tether. The tri-zone climate control air-con comes with second and third row air vents.

Infotainment A 7-inch TFT Advanced Drive-Assist Display instrument cluster is joined by a 10.8-inch head-up and 9-inch touchscreen display with satellite navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto are backed up by a wireless smartphone charger, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming and voice recognition. A Bose 13-speaker premium audio system includes dual subwoofer for AM / FM radio, DAB+ digital radio. USB-A and USB-C points feature throughout the cabin.

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

Remote engine start has the Pathfinder firing up for a quick-ish getaway, with cabin insulation keeping the engine, wind and road noise at bay. Shit-by-wire technology is aimed at faster, smoother gearshits. Nissan claims a 10.5 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway fuel cycle. The test vehicle recorded 13-plus litres per 100 kilometres in the city and suburbs and 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the open road. Nissan engineers have fine-tuned the steering for a sharper response and reworked the suspension for improved levels of damping, increased roll stiffness and wider contact with the road. Overall, the Pathfinder turned in a good performance for such a big unit. Backing up are a range of dial-up drive modes, including Sport, Eco, Snow, Sand, Mud / Rut and Tow.

Engines / transmissions

Summary

Nothing to see here! Under the Pathfinder’s bonnet is the same 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, delivering 202 kW and 340 Nm as before. However, the continuously variable transmission has been given the push in place of a new nine-speed auto. The Pathfinder maintains its 2.7 tonne towing capacity.

No longer basic, neither is it boofy as in previous iterations, the fith-generation Pathfinder is the essence of the large SUV, with quality, comfort and safety to the fore, on and off road. Versatility is the byword, with nothing to match this, except perhaps the Hyundai Palisade.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Pathfinder ST 2WD: $54,190 Pathfinder ST-L 4WD: $61,790 Pathfinder Ti 2WD: $65,910 Pathfinder Ti 4WD: $70,030 Pathfinder Ti-L 4WD: $80,227 SPECIFICATIONS Nissan Pathfinder Ti 3.0L 6-cylinder petrol, 9sp automatic, 4x4 SUV

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

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Summer season grand final joy There’s been grand final fever across Melbourne’s north-west in recent weeks, as the summer sports finish up their seasons. There’s plenty of good stories from across all competitions and here is four of them.

Sunshine Heights under-13 B team. (Supplied)

All-round performance seals win Sunshine Heights’ under-13 B side tasted premiership success in the Western Region Junior Cricket Association Friday north competition. Whilst Deer Park won the toss and batted first it was bowled out for 130 in 25 overs. Deer Park’s leading run scorer, Arjun Upadhyay top scored 37 runs off 33 balls, which included one four and three sixes. Noah Ramsey dismissed Arjun. Noah’s the youngest Ramsey to play with our club, along with his father, Shane and his two older brothers, Zac and Jhett. Noah’s bowling figures were 2-20 off three overs.

Epping’s second XI premiership side.

An emotional win for Epping The premiership success for Epping’s second XI in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association B-grade competition was extra special. Playing in their fifth grand final in seven seasons, the Pingers won their fourth title. This one was extra special as at the beginning of the season the club lost a young man who was one of their best mates. At only 18, Kade Lawry, who was part of the B-grade side, took his own life just before the cricket season, with the players dedicating the season to him. After losing to Diamond Creek during the regular season, the Pingers turned the tables in the grand final. Epping batted first and made 9-147 led by captain Jaedyn Kearney 46 not out and wicketkeeper Shanyn Kearney with 30. The Pingers then restricted Diamond Creek to 112 wickets, with Jordan Wilkins taking 4-27 and Jaedyn Kearney 3-20 to make it a special day for the club.

Sunshine Heights’ second best bowler was Sarim Tamoor who bowled three overs, taking 1-7. Manroop Singh took three outfield catches to help get Deer Park all out. Sunshine Heights got the runs as the sun set, finishing 5-132 off 28 overs. Sarim made 34 not out and Noah 31 not out, both retired and came back in with a 60-odd run partnership. Arlo Mykyta made a handy 14 not out to help guide Heights home. It was an all round team effort to defeat the top side away from home.

Epping’s second XI win was a pretty special one. (Pictures: Supplied)

Altona notches up a perfect season It was the perfect season for Altona in the Western Region Junior Cricket Association under-11 Friday south-east competition. After starting the season with one under-11 team, the A’s split into two teams due to the number of players. One team played in the south-east competition and the other in the club’s Friday east. In the south-east grand final, Altona faced Grand United. Altona batted first making 9-172 with Charlie Loft top scoring with 26. Grand United finished 13-140 in reply off its 20 overs. Alistair Culka took 3-14 off his three overs. In the club’s east competition, there were no finals. The team won eight games for the season. 20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

Altona Sports second XI. (Supplied)

Back-to-back for Altona Sports Altona Sports’ successful season was capped off with a third senior premiership. After its division 5 side won a premiership, the club’s top side managed to go back-to-back, albeit in different competitions. The second XI made it a hat-trick of wins, winning the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association Barrie Clissold Shield against East Coburg. East Coburg batted first and were set to make a big total before Dean Bryden and

Jono Lang combined to take 8-63 to dismiss East Coburg for 146. Dean Mckensie and Daniel Mulcahy got Altona Sports away to a strong start before East Coburg started to take wickets before Lucas “The Kid” Meirers came in and showed wisdom beyond his years and steered the side to victory to score 8-147 to see Altona Sports home. It was back-to-back wins for the second XI.

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Falcons open account with a win It was a much better performance from the City West Falcons on Wednesday night in the Victorian Netball League championship division. After a nervous start in round one against the Geelong Cougars last Sunday, the Falcons had no issues against the Peninsula Waves, winning 86-44. Falcons coach Marg Lind was pretty happy with Wednesday night’s performance. “The first game we were pretty nervous,” she said. “With new players we weren’t really settled and lost by three. “We got that game under our belt and we were more settled.” With such a big lead, Lind and the other coaches took the chance to try out a number of new combinations. Nyibol Akec got a run in the championship side, while Maggie Lind and Montana Holmes switched between centre and wing attack.

Lind said it also gave them the opportunity to mix up their defensive end. “Sienna [Allen], Zoe [Davies] Sophie [Hanrahan] all got rotated through,” he said. “We were looking at combinations as against Geelong we didn’t have that luxury.” Lind said for now Hanrahan would play as the third defender, but they were still keen to see what Charli Nicol and Achel Yout can do throughout the season in the top grade. Jane Cook scored 48 goals, while Maddy Gray scored 21 and Uneeq Palavi scored 16 goals. Lind said she was thrilled with the performance of Lucia Fauonuku in wing defence, saying it was one of her best games in a long time. The Falcons though are without Soli Ropati, who will miss six weeks after having knee surgery. It was a clean sweep for the Falcons on

Wednesday night. After a round one loss, the division 1 side beat the Waves, 56-43. The under-19s made it two from two with a 75-46 win. Lind said she was happy with the start to the season. “I’m pretty happy with where we sit,” she said. “Last season I think we started 0-2, we’ve been a lot better this year. We will build as t he season goes on. “The defensive end took some time, but there’s been some good signs.” The Falcons this week face the Hawks. Tara Murray Lucia Fauonuku had a good game at wing defence. (Robbab Photography)

Jack Innella.

Strikers on the board

(Basketball Victoria)

Innella’s a global talent By Peter Howe “See ball, get ball,” is a simple mantra of March Don Deeble Sports Star Jack Innella. It was what worked for him when he first started playing basketball and nothing has changed as he prepares to travel to France with the Australian Boomerangs, the men’s national team for athletes with an intellectual disability, to the Virtus Global Games. Innella started playing basketball as a 10-year-old. “I didn’t know the rules, but I loved the speed of the game,” he said “You are always involved. “My parents made it simple for me, see ball get ball. So, I did.” Innella tried football but found he was out of the play for a lot of the time, so he lost interest quickly. It is very obvious he is a fierce competitor. For a start he is only 1.8 metres tall and the smallest member of his teams, secondly and most importantly for Innella, he wants to break the glass ceiling by becoming the first intellectually disabled basketballer to make it in mainstream basketball. “I would like to set the pathway for my mates in the Boomerangs to be seen as competent basketballers and able to match it with the best.” Innella has taken the first step towards that goal by being the first Boomerangs player to be invited to the AIS in Canberra for a camp of

under-20 basketballers. Just 25 basketballers in Australia were selected to attend that camp. “It was very physical and tough, but I loved it,” Innella said. Innella doesn’t want people to judge him, just accept him for who he is and celebrate what he brings to the team. He has made the huge decision to take himself off his ADHD medication to comply with WADA regulations as he chases his sporting dreams. “The older I get the more I understand myself. I am a perfectionist and get angry with myself if I make mistakes. “I have learned to take myself out of the game if this happens. I don’t feel I need my medication at this stage and am managing it quite well.” Innella trained at Team 639 in Hoppers Crossing to work on my strength and conditioning most days before spending another two hours with his mentor Darren Hindle to work on his shooting technique and mindset. Innella is a visual learner and picks up the nuances very quickly. Learning by repetitive doing means he spends hours and hours watching and playing the sport. “I play as the point guard in my teams, it is like being the quarterback in the NFL. You set up the plays and set the tempo of the game.” Innella made his first state squad at age 14 as

an emergency. It was an amazing achievement given it was an open age men’s team. His parents took him to Canberra to watch the tournament as emergencies didn’t travel for that tournament. One of the Victorian assistant coaches saw him in the crowd, came and got him and immersed him into the team for the rest of that tournament. That moment had an overwhelming impact on him. The bond between player and coach was forged in that simple act of inclusion. Innella now travels from Truganina to Pakenham five days a week to train and play under that coach. As a 15-year-old, Innella was also playing in mainstream representative teams. The best moment in Innella’s basketball life occurred in the Virtus Asian Games held in Brisbane last year. Innella was playing point guard for Australia and was given some tough defensive roles. At the recent Ivor Burge National Basketball Australia tournament held in Geelong, Innella was selected as the best defensive player in the competition. The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly. If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.

Westside Strikers opened their account in FV state league 3 north-west on Saturday night. The Strikers, who are playing in state league 3 for the first time, headed to Point Cook to take on the Jets, with both teams searching for their first win of the season. The Strikers scored in the seventh minute through Charbel Abiishac and led by that margin at half time. Neither team could score in the second half, with the Strikers getting the 1-0 win. In state league 4 west, Spring Hills remains without a win. The Stallions faced Laverton on Saturday. Scores were locked at half time, before Laverton lifted a level to come away with a 4-2 win. Juanse Igic and Ryota Yoshinouchi were the goal scorers for the Stallions. The Stallions have now conceded six goals in their first two matches. Melton Phoneix put on a show against ETA Buffalo Club of Victoria in state league 5 west. The Phoenix led 5-0 at the break, before continuing to put the pressure on in the second half. The Phoneix came away with a 12-2 win after their reserves won 13-0. The win was Melton’s first after a draw in the opening round. The Phoenix had a big day on Sunday with its gala day, with junior teams, their metro men’s and women’s sides, all taking part in a day of fun and activities.

Charbel Abiishac was the goal scorer on Saturday for the Westside Strikers. (Joe Mastroianni). 320088_01

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

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Young Melton stars make Vic championship The next generation of female basketballers at Melton Basketball Association are showing they have to make it at the top level. The club’s under-12 girls team has qualified for the Victorian Junior Basketball League Vic championship competition, the highest level in the state for that age group. Thoroughbreds coaching director Fernando Rios-Rodriguez said they know they’ve had two teams under-12s girls teams make VC before, but there hadn’t been many teams in the history of the club make it that far. “It’s a huge achievement for our girls program,” he said. “That’s where our focus has been for the association. “Being able to have the under-12s achieve this we are really proud that we are starting to provide a pathway for girls in the junior program.” Rios-Rodriguez said the early signs had been good for the team, showing that they can be competitive at this level, losing their round two match by just two points. It backs up after being in the division 1 competition last season. Rios-Rodriguez said that coach Nicole Palmers had made a massive impact in getting the girls to this level and they are very grateful

to have such a passionate and dedicated coach in their VJBL program. He said having the girls at this level only made other side’s in the club want to get better. “The under-12 boys are in division 1,” he said. “There’s a good culture there and it gives the boys a challenge and something to look up to.” Rios-Rodriguez said the club had been really focusing on making sure they had a pathway from under-12s all the way through to under-18s. The under-12 girls have a buddy in the under-18 team as they try and build a really good culture. Rios-Rodriguez said one of his biggest focuses as coaching director was to focus on the participation of females in the sport. “We have 40 per cent more participation from males,” he said. “We’ve got a Melton girls academy which gives them more court space and game development and more opportunities to see if basketball is for them. “We’ve giving that program focus and investing in those girls.” As well as working at a young level, the Thoroughbreds are keen to establish a

Melton’s under-12 girls team. (Supplied)

successful senior program too. The club had a team in the Country Basketball League competition for the first time last season. Rios-Rodriguez said they were hoping to get

under-20s and Big V youth league side back up next year, with the longer focus getting a women’s side back up and running. Tara Murray

Thoroughbreds on the board

Eric Vassiliadis (Luke Hemer)

Solid start for Georgies By Tara Murray It’s been a pleasing start to life in the National Premier League 3 competition for Caroline Springs George Cross. With a win and a loss from their first two matches, the Georgies have shown some positive signs early on. Coach Eric Vassiliadis said things have been looking really positive so far for the side. “It’s always a challenge not knowing the level of teams you are coming up against,” he said. “You want to get off to a good start, but there’s more quality you are coming up against. “We’re still getting a feel for the league, it’s still early days. “There’s been some surprising results. We’ll keep working hard and focus on what we can do.” The Georgies were at home on Friday night against Boroondara Carey Eagles , their first home match of the season. 22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 28 March, 2023

Vassiliadis said it was a pretty big occasion for the club, being able to show off their facilities in front of a big crowd. On field, the Georgies lost 2-1. Otman Benhaddou scored late in injury time for the Georgies. “They got a couple of goals in the bank,” he said. “We couldn’t get the goal we needed early on to put eh pressure on them. “Full credit to Boroondara they deserved to get the three points. The work our lads to keep pushing and the endeavour for the shirt was really good.” Vassiliadis said a focus for the group was to make their home ground a fortress, that makes it hard for other teams to play at. He said every game at home would be a big occasion and that hopefully brings out the best in them. Vassiliadis said they were just focused on their game and trying to get better and better. “There’s more quality in NPL3 and teams that have had success and know how to win,” he said.

“We have to keep getting better and better. “We look at each opposition and as a coach looking at whether they will look to open us up or sit on us, to try and get the result. “I’ve been happy to far with the guys work rate and feel of the game day situation.” The Georgies this week face North Sunshine Eagles. The Eagles are undefeated after two rounds. “We play them away and it’s a pretty intense environment,” Vassiliadis said. “They are two from two and have been in the league quite a well. Hopefully we’ll get three points and get a reaction from the boys after last week. Meanwhile, Western United got its fourth win of the NPL2 season on Saturday, beating Werribee City. Scores were locked at 0-0 at half time and it was still the case deep in the second half. The Bees went a man down and United converted a penalty not long afterwards to take the lead. United held on for a 1-0 win. United sits third on the table.

It was a mixed weekend for the Melton Thoroughbreds in the Big V men’s division 2 season. The Thoroughbreds opened their account on Saturday night against the Maccabi Warriors. It was an even first quarter, with the Warriors leading by one point at quarter time. The Thoroughbreds started to get their game going into the second quarter, to lead by seven points at half time. The margin was increased to 21 at the last break, with a 25-11 quarter putting the Thoroughbreds completely in control. With the game all but over, the Thoroughbreds were able to finish the game off, winning 85-61. Cooper McIntosh top scored with 18 points for the Thoroughbreds, while Koby Skenderis scored 15 points. Every player hit the scoreboard for the Thoroughbreds as they rotated their bench in the second half. The side was back on court less than 24 hours later, against the Surf Coast. Having made the trip down the highway, the Thoroughbreds were able to stick with the Waves for the first half, leading by a point at the main break. The third quarter was another even quarter, with the Waves winning it by two points to take a one point lead into the final quarter. The Thoroughbreds ran out of legs in the final quarter, losing the quarter 29-12 to lose the match 99-81. McIntosh top scored again for the Thoroughbreds with 21 points as all five starters scored double figures. The Thoroughbreds, which is a new look outfit, sit 1-2 after two rounds. The Thoroughbreds this week face the Mornington Breakers on Saturday night at Cobblebank Stadium. In the youth league men’s division competition, the Pacers suffered two big losses. On Saturday night the Thoroughbreds lost to the Whittlesea Pacers, 103-64, before losing to the Surf Coast on Sunday, 112-84.

Queen Elida races away capturing two big prizes Queen Elida captured two big prizes on Saturday night with another quality display at Victorian harness racing headquarters. The Brent Lilley-trained squaregaiter prevailed in the Group 1 Aldebaran Park Sumthingaboutmaori Trotters Free For All, and with that secured overall honours in the Kerryn Manning Trotting Mares Triple Crown. For her victory in the Sumthingaboutmaori and La Coocaracha two weeks earlier, Queen Elida finished three points clear of Sleepee in the three-round series and pocketed a $10,000 bonus for connections. Champion reinsman Chris Alford found a spot in behind leader Sleepee through the early stages of Saturday night’s feature and then bided his time with Queen Elida through much of the 2760m trip. Im Ready Jet, who galloped at the start, surged up to challenge Sleepee down the back straight, and while

she easily raced past the early pilot, the race favourite had enjoyed a much easier run and eventually moved past to win by 1.8m. Im Ready Jet was a brave second, with Ofortuna getting home well to finish third. “She’s just great to drive,” Alford said. “She adapts to any situation and with the run she had I thought she probably would have won a little bit easier, but she got the job done. “I always thought we had (Im Ready Jet) covered after its early mistake, but she’s getting a bit clever now – she only does what she has to.” Alford’s victory was his 131st at Group 1 level and the 54-year-old continues to close in on the magical 8000-win milestone. “No more goals anymore, I threw all that out a while ago. I’m just happy driving winners now,” he said.

“Big races like this are great for good owners and trainers, but I still get a kick out of driving like a winner at Charlton for Ray Cross the other day. “Every win is special in its own way.” Queen Elida has now won 20 of 37 career starts, with prizemoney earnings up over $400,000. Chris Lang is one of the sport’s greatest conditioners of squaregaiters and he landed a quinella in the $50,000 Aldebaran Park Vicbred Platinum Home Grown Classic (3YO Trotting Colts and Geldings) Final earlier in the night. Lang took the reins of short-priced favourite Imhavinagoodtime and he duly saluted despite a brilliant finishing surge from stablemate Majestic Mover, who closed to within a half-neck for John Caldow. Lang claimed the night’s only winning

Queen Elida’s connections (Stuart McCormick)

double when he trained and drove Giveitatry to victory in the Peter Jackson Menswear Vicbred Pace. Tim O’Connor

Sports shorts Coates Talent League It was a tough start to the season for the Western Jets in the Coates Talent League Boys competition on Saturday. Facing the Sydney Swans Academy side, the Jets started well and were in front by five points at quarter time. The Swans hit the second quarter, before the Jets made the most of the wind in the third quarter to lead by 14 points at the last break. Seven final quarter goals gave the Swans a 13.16 (94)-10.7 (67) win. Daniel Snell and Lucas Impey were the Jets best.

RDFNL The Riddell District Football Netball League season gets under way this Saturday. The Western Rams will host local rival Melton Centrals in both football and netball to start the season. The big drawcard of the opening senior football match, is AFL Brownlow medallist Dane Swan. Swan is playing for the Rams and will then stick around for a sportsman’s night at the club.

VTCA

Chloe Logarzo (Supplied)

Logarzo back at United Tara Murray Western United has received a big boost in the lead up to the A-League Women’s finals with Chloe Logarzo rejoining the side. The Matildas star, who played six games for United while on loan, returns to the side having been released from the Kansas City Current. As well as returning for the rest of this season, Logarzo has signed with United for next season. Making her way back to the west, Logarzo said she was grateful and overjoyed to be able to return to the club and pick up where she left off. “I’m extremely excited to re-join the girls and the Western United fans,” she said. “I feel very blessed that the team is here to support me in any and every way possible. “The girls have been doing an incredible job and I’m looking forward to supporting and driving the team to get the very best out of every single person.”

United coach Mark Torcaso said Logarzo’s arrival would provide his team with a significant boost heading into finals with United already guaranteed a top two spot. He also admitted her commitment to next season offers a statement of United’s continued intent in the competition. “Chloe coming back is immensely exciting for us and will provide everyone with a big lift heading into the final weeks of this season,” he said. “Everyone knows her talent, but Chloe’s leadership and contribution to our team culture was above and beyond what I or any of our staff could have expected. “That’s why it is so important to have her back for what’s left of this season and also heading into next year. We want to continue setting high standards for our program and Chloe being here will certainly help us do just that.” Logarzo debuted for United in the club’s inaugural match against Melbourne Victory on November 19 and went on to score three

goals in her six matches. Her minutes were ultimately limited due to a foot injury, but Logarzo has now returned to fitness and is ready to get back on the pitch at a high level ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Logarzo will arrive back in Melbourne this week with an eye on featuring in the finals series. Meanwhile United’s hopes of winning the minor premiership suffered a setback with a 3-0 loss to Canberra United on Saturday. Canberra got off to a dream start when Vesna Milivojevic scored the opening goal after just 39 seconds, and she would go on to double hers and the team’s tally shortly after the hour mark. The visitors sealed the win with a strike from Chengshu Wu in the 75th minute. Despite the loss, United remains on top of the table heading into the final round of the regular season next weekend, where it will take on Western Sydney Wanderers.

Burnside Springs United has wasted no time in adding to its list for next season’s Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 5 season. Coming off its first turf season, Burnside Springs has already announced the signing of Charuka Perera. “Charuka joins us to play turf cricket with the aim of hopefully guiding the first and second XI’s to their first VTCA finals series next season,” the club said on social media. “Charuka is a talented pace bowler, amassing over 280 wickets with a career best of 7-28 and is an explosive mid to lower order batsman hitting a career total of 2,600-plus runs.”

VFL It was a big week for Darley duo Mace Cousins and Bailey Young, with both making their Victorian Football League debuts. Young made his debut for Footscray on Saturday, while Cousins made his debut for Geelong on Friday night. FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly Tuesday, 28 March, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

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