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11 APRIL, 2023
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Colourful term end Albanvale Primary School was a sea of colour last Thursday as pupils and staff, including teacher Aaryn Patterson (pictured), celebrated the end of term one with a colour run and disco. The activities were part of the school’s cultural day celebration. ■ Pictures: Page 11
Runway ‘time for action’ transport minister is currently assessing the third runway proposal,” Mr Rivoli said. APAM requires approval from the infrastructure, transport, regional development and communications minister for the master plan and the MDP, which must comply with relevant Commonwealth legislation which include the Airports (Environment Protection) Regulations 1997 and Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Council wants APAM to consider the off-site impacts of Melbourne Airport’s operations on surrounding communities. “Support the Brimbank council’s call for an independent third runway health impacts assessment,” reads part of a public meeting
invitation poster being circulated by Mr Rivoli. Since 2019, council has been vocal about the potential health and education impacts on the Brimbank community from a third runway in a north south orientation. Letters have been flying back and forth between council and government offices, Aviation Noise Ombudsman, the Commonwealth chief medical officer, the Victorian chief health officer and local MPs . The same applies to APAM which is equally fending off resistance to the implementation of its master plan. Both sides are not budging, as APAM still expects to be given a green light by the Federal government to proceed with the construction of the $1.9 billion third runway.
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A coalition of stakeholders against the establishment of Melbourne Airport’s third runaway is pressing ahead with a string of community engagements to drum up support for its cause. Residents, operating under the banner of No3rdtullarunway Coalition, have scheduled a meeting for Saturday, April 15 at Old Shire Hall in Keilor, to map the way forward over the contentious issue which has also placed Australia Pacific Airports (APAM), owners of Melbourne Airport, at logger-heads with Brimbank council. The residents are enjoying the tacit support of Brimbank council which made submissions
to APAM vehemently opposing the third runway as a source of noise and air pollution. Responding to APAM’s 2022 Master Plan that mooted the third runway proposal, the council accused Melbourne Airport of subjecting residents to levels of aircraft noise beyond World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations. The stakeholders are calling upon the federal government to force APAM to lower down level of aircraft noise and compensate people impacted by the noise. No3rdtullarunway Coalition spokesman Frank Rivoli, fired a final warning shot to APAM this week, urging residents to take immediate action. “Now is the time for action. The federal
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Pick up your FREE newspaper from these local outlets... • ALBION Sadie Black Cafe 31 Perth Avenue • ALBION Sunshine City Club 24 Talmage Street • BRAYBROOK Coles Supermarket 67 Ashley Street • BRAYBROOK Central West Shopping Centre 65-67 Ashley Street • BRAYBROOK Braybrook Hotel 353 Ballarat Road • BRAYBROOK Braybrook Community Centre 107-139 Churchill Avenue • BRAYBROOK Braybrook News & Lotto 127 South Road • BURNSIDE Burnside Hub Shopping Centre 15-25 Westwood Drive • BURNSIDE Burnside News and Lotto 15 Westwood Drive • BURNSIDE HEIGHTS Milk Bar 102 Tenterfield Drive • CAIRNLEA Cairnlea Town Centre 100 Furlong Road • CAIRNLEA Harcourts Real Estate 1a/100 Furlong Road • CAROLINE SPRINGS Lakeside Hyundai 11/13 Eucumbene Drive • CAROLINE SPRINGS Caroline Springs Civic Centre/Library 193-201 Caroline Springs Boulevard • CAROLINE SPRINGS Professionals Caroline Springs RE Shop 16, 218-222 Caroline Springs Boulevard • CAROLINE SPRINGS Brad Teal Real Estate Shop 4, 242-244 Caroline Springs Boulevard • CAROLINE SPRINGS Ray White Real Estate Shop 8, 234 Caroline Springs Boulevard • CAROLINE SPRINGS CS Square Centre 29-35 Lake Street • DEER PARK Deer Park Club 780 Ballarat Road • DEER PARK Bells Real Estate 813a Ballarat Road • DEER PARK Biggin and Scott Real Estate 817a Ballarat Road • DEER PARK Comm Unity Plus - Community Neighbourhood Centre 822-824 Ballarat Road • DEER PARK Foodworks 803 Ballarat Road • DEER PARK Cellarbrations Liquor Store 809 Ballarat Road • DEER PARK Australia Post Office 827a Ballarat Road • DEER PARK Deer Park IGA 8 Hatchlands Drive
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2 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023
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NEWS
Ire flows over leaking water pipe By Sibanengi Dube A continuous leaking water pipe in Sunshine’s Monash Street is drawing rage from residents who are getting irritated by Greater Western Water’s slow pace in fixing it. A resident Trevor Cunningham revealed that the water pipe has been leaking for weeks adding that he did not receive any joy after alerting the responsible water authorities. “I have attempted to have Greater Western Water repair a water leak in Monash Street, Sunshine opposite Our Lady’s Church,” Mr Cunningham said. He added that similar efforts stretching for weeks by other residents drew blanks “The repairs were previously scheduled for an overnight repair but this was not done and there is now no date for the job. So whilst the
Leaking water pipe in Monash Street.
job had priority that has now disappeared. Enormous volumes of water are being lost every day,” Mr Cunningham said. Greater Western Water told Mr
Cunningham that no other date were scheduled to repair the pipe. “I can see that we have had to delay previously scheduled repairs, however there is currently no new date for the repairs to take place,” said the water authority in an email message to Mr Cunningham.. Children crossing the street to a nearby school were being inconvenienced by a thin sheet of water forming along Monash Street. A Greater Western Water spokesperson told Star Weekly the leak was being repaired. “The water leak on Monash Street, Sunshine, is currently being repaired. Crews are on site with the expected repair to take between three and five hours. We understand the leak has caused some concern for residents and apologise for the delay,“ the spokesperson said.
Love motivates Hendrix’s big shave A grade 6 student has launched a campaign to raise money for his mother who was diagnosed with leukaemia. Instead of folding hands and watching his mother’s health deteriorates, Hendrix, who attends St Theresa Primary School, mobilised colleagues from three other schools in Brimbank to join him in his fundraising efforts. The money will be channelled towards medical research and to help other people with cancer. ”I’m doing it for the people who have leukaemia and cancer so that they can find ways to make it better,” Hendrix said. Armed with love, Hendrix and his close friend Beau, 10, contacted the Leukaemia Foundations World’s Greatest Shave to support their fundraising event. Fruits of his efforts are already showing. A group of family members and colleagues from three neighbouring schools cheered and whistled as Hendrix, Beau and church priest Father John went under the shaving machines at St Thomas Primary school in Albion to kick start the fundraising campaign. Parents of other children attending the same schools with Hendrix and Beau opened their wallets for the worthy cause. Albion football club, Woolworth and St Theresa’s Parish’s plus members of the businesses community pumped in over $10,000 into the campaign. The boys are determined to continue with their fundraising efforts.
Responding to complaints of the delays in fixing the pipe, the water authority said all water faults were prioritised according to impacts to the community, customer safety and severity of the fault. “This ensures we are prioritising work with the biggest impact on service and safety.” The process of pinpointing the exact leaking point by the leak detection specialist consumed time which further delayed the fixing of the pipe. The water authority maintained that the process had to be completed before the actual fixing commences to minimise disruption and safety impacts to community. The maintenance contractors had to secure approvals first from the water industry service standards as set by the Essential Services Commission (ESC).
Couple plan holiday after lotto windfall A Caroline Springs couple has confessed they’ve already started planning a family holiday to Europe after bagging $775,000 in a recent TattsLotto draw. The Caroline Springs residents held one of the seven division one winning entries in TattsLotto draw 4351, drawn Saturday, April 1 and took home a total division one prize. One of the winners thought her husband was playing an April Fools joke when she heard the news. “I got up on Sunday morning, and my husband told me to sit down because he had something important to tell me,” she said. “My mind was racing at the thought of what it could be, and then when he showed me the win, I thought he was joking. “I was waiting to hear, ‘April fools’. “This win will do so much for our family. We’re basically future-proof now, which is incredible. “And we’re off to Europe, we deserve a holiday, so we’ve already looked at booking tickets and we’ll be off to see the sights in no time.” Across Australia, there were seven division one winning entries in TattsLotto draw 4351 – four in Victoria and one each in Queensland, New South Wales and Tasmania. The Lott’s division one winning tally has now reached 325 so far this financial year, including 127 won by Tatts customers.
Sibanengi Dube
Hendrix, Father John and Beau shaving their heads to raise money for cancer victims. (Supplied)
Nominate exceptional women for Victorian honour roll Victorians are encouraged to nominate women in their communities who have made significant and lasting contributions to society, with the 2023 Victorian Honour Roll of Women now open. Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins this week opened nominations for the Honour Roll, inviting the community to put forward women nominees while paying tribute to the hundreds of women honoured in the past. More than 700 women whose achievements have helped shape Victoria, the nation and the globe have been inducted into the Honour Roll since it began in 2001. “Women from diverse backgrounds and from
all walks of life have made lasting contributions to our state, and we want to shine a light on their achievements for the next generation of women and girls,” Ms Hutchins said. “Some of our previous inductees forged new paths for women today by challenging outdated ideas of what a woman can do, while others are young women redefining what leadership is for the future.” Women from all walks of life, age groups and across industries – from health, science and technology, arts and education to politics and community activism – have been recognised as trailblazers, local champions and change agents.
In recent years, nomination categories have expanded to include emerging leaders aged between 16 and 30 who are redefining leadership in their field of expertise, interest or endeavour. Ms Hutchins said celebrating the achievements of diverse women from all walks of life helps open the door for the next generation of outstanding women and shatters entrenched beliefs that only men can be leaders. Nominations for the 2023 Victorian Honour Roll of Women are open until Monday, 29 May. To nominate and see details of past inductees visit vic.gov.au/victorian-honour-roll-womenprogram.
Minister for Women Natalie Hutchins. Tuesday, 11 April, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 3
NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Vic Uni welcomes autism hub Victoria University (VU) is preparing to welcome the new Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) service hub to VU’s St Albans campus. In 2022, VU and Aspect, Australia’s largest provider of autism-specific services and school programs, entered into a partnership aimed at boosting workforce support for the estimated 1-in-70 Australians on the autism spectrum. The five-year partnership will offer VU students who are training in areas such as speech pathology, social work, community services – at both the TAFE and Higher Education levels – opportunities to participate in placements, internships, and
formal employment with Aspect. From mid-April 2023, Aspect will be located at VU’s St Albans campus, making this historic alliance the first partnership on a university campus. VU and Aspect are demonstrating their shared commitment to empowering the communities they serve. The new Adult Community Services centre, with nine staff, will offer a range of individualised activities to build independent living skills, community and social engagement and mental and physical wellbeing, such as swimming and exercise programs, cooking and shopping, games, art, and photography. The location is highly accessible via public transport and is in close
proximity to a range of community services. “As we approach World Autism Understanding Day, we looked forward to welcoming Aspect to our campus in a few weeks. This new partnership is a tremendous opportunity for our health-care students to make vital professional connections via placements, internships and potentially employment with the country’s most respected Autism service,” VU’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker said. Aspect chief executive Jacqui Borland, said: “The partnership brings about many opportunities for people on the autism spectrum and for Aspect to further serve the community. Due to the ideal location and
facilities, we are able to double in size in both staffing and participants, as well as provide additional services, such as therapy services and employment mentoring”. The not-for-profit organisation works with people of all ages on the autism spectrum, along with families and carers, to deliver family-focused and person-centered solutions informed by evidence. Aspect’s purpose is to understand, engage and celebrate the strengths, interests and aspirations of people on the autism spectrum so that they can reach their highest potential.
KDC snatches victory Keilor Downs College (KDC) students walloped Maribyrnong College last week to defend their School Sport Victoria Premier League Cup. KDC snatched the prestigious school soccer state championship from a soccer powerhouse, Rowville Sports Academy in 2022. The penalty shoot-out victory came after KDC and Rowville Sports Academy teams remained locked at one score each by the end of full game time. The trophy currently has only two other winners on it – Rowville Sports Academy and Maribyrnong Sports Academy since its inception in 2014. “We are the only non-select entry or sport specialist school to win the title, and to go back-to-back basically working with only
kids that live in the Keilor Downs/Keilor area is remarkable,” said KDC soccer school coordinator Josip Loncaric, who is co-coaching the team with George Katiforis. The back to back champions have seven outfield coaches, two goalkeeper coaches and one strength and conditioning coach. The Brimbank based KDC is home to 155 boys and girls aged between 11 and 18. Michael Vonja an international under-17 player is part of the KDC soccer team. Sibanengi Dube
Two times Champion winners of the school State soccer tournament. (Supplied)
We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions Train disruptions Geelong Line
Warrnambool Line
Ballarat, Ararat and Maryborough lines
Until 21 Apr
Service changes between Southern Cross and Wyndham Vale
22 to 23 Apr
Coaches replace trains between Southern Cross and Waurn Ponds
24 Apr to 3 May
Coaches replace trains between Wyndham Vale and Waurn Ponds
Until 21 Apr
Coaches replace trains between Southern Cross and Geelong
22 Apr to 3 May
Coaches replace trains between Southern Cross and Warrnambool
Until 21 Apr
Coaches replace trains between Southern Cross and Melton
22 to 23 Apr
Coaches replace trains between Southern Cross and Ballarat, Ararat and Maryborough
MTIA8991
Wurundjeri Way, Docklands
Overnight until 1 May
Between Bourke and Dudley streets
Until Oct
Reduced lanes in both directions between Bourke and Collins streets
Francis Boulevard, Sunbury
Until mid-May
At Sunbury Road
Footscray Road, West Melbourne
Until late-May
Westbound between Appleton Dock Road and Dock Link Road
12593413-HC15-23
Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes
Check before you travel at bigbuild.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 4 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023
NEWS
Cost of living a worry for youth By Sibanengi Dube The Salvation Army has warned against neglecting young Australians in need of mental health services to cushion them from persistent effects of COVID-19 lockdown. Brimbank Salvation Army captain Colin Reynolds made the remarks in response to a report released on Monday, April 3 by headspace, titled National Youth Mental Health, which painted a bleak picture of the youths’ mental health status. Mr Reynolds called for more funding of young people’s projects and programmes being carried by headspace. “More works still needs to be done to help the youth from mental health problems emanating from the pandemic which restricted them from schooling and social interactions,“ Mr Reynolds said. headspace National Youth Mental Health survey identified cost of living and rental bills as the major sources of their headaches. This survey was conducted on young people aged between 18 and 25. “New research … has revealed the cost of living as the single biggest concern for young Australians, with the affordability of housing and rent also significant causes for worry,” reads part of the report. The headspace National Youth Mental Health Survey asked young people to name their top three concerns, with financial instability and cost of living coming out on top. The issue was cited by 54 per cent of participants aged 18 to 25 as something they wanted to see addressed urgently.
Brimbank community voice
Housing affordability came second as the most common concern among the younger generation, with 42 per cent listing it as one of their top concerns. The survey data features as part of a headspace submission to the Senate Select Committee on the Cost of Living. The submission from headspace details key focus areas for government, including: improving access to and out of pocket expenses for mental health services; investment in vocational services; the need to identify and support young people not captured in unemployment data. The youths also expressed doubt over their future capacity to either buy houses or afford paying rentals. Most of the young adults said they were even reluctant to have children due to the cost of living.. “The headspace Youth National Mental Health survey also found that over half of participants aged 18-25 (52 per cent) said they are hesitant to have children because of the cost of living,” reads the report. headspace chief executive Jason Trethowan said: “Young people are telling headspace they feel anxious about how the rising cost of living is going to impact their ability to achieve major life milestones, like moving out of home or saving for a house. “It is also incumbent on governments to take steps to alleviate these pressures, so that young people and their families can afford the things they need to lead happy, healthy lives. “Together we need to be finding ways to help young people feel optimistic about their futures.”
Join Brimbank Community Voice Share your views and ideas with Council and help shape Brimbank’s future We know many community members want to be more involved in shaping Brimbank’s future. This is why we are creating Brimbank Community Voice. By becoming a member of Brimbank Community Voice, you will have the opportunity to give feedback and ideas to Council and work with other residents to shape the future of our City. No special knowledge or experience is needed, just an interest in contributing to your community. Your voice is important Brimbank Community Voice will be a group of community members who have registered to take part in Council surveys, workshops, focus groups, discussions, and more. As a member, you’ll be the first to hear about upcoming consultations and opportunities to have your say, and you’ll help us design and deliver services that meet community needs. Members of Brimbank Community Voice can take part in the activities that suit their interests and availability. There will be different opportunities to be involved. This may include participating online, face-to-face, or over the phone.
Who can join? • Residents, ratepayers and business owners in Brimbank, aged 18 and older.
GenWest Sunrise Social Group members Katrina Svilans, Michelle Henderson, Elizabeth Findlay, Gilda Mills, Carmel Orsini and Pauline Herrmann.
Rise up with Sunrise online meetings, in which all of the western suburbs groups come together and share information, learn new skills from each other and link up with services across local areas. Participant Michelle Henderson said Sunrise Social Groups helped her find a “new sense of life” and a “purpose to push on”. “Sunrise has given me friendship, connection, a sense of community and belonging … The group has inspired me and pushed me to be a better version of myself,” she said. “Because of a referral from Sunrise I am returning to study via Deakin University … Sunrise has made me rise above. “I have been accepted for who I am and supported through my struggles for the first time ever.” Details: https://genwest.org.au/what-we-do/ health-wellbeing-programs/ Liam McNally
• No minimum time commitment Our community is diverse and we want to hear all viewpoints. We’re looking for people of different ages, genders, cultures, identities and abilities to be part of Brimbank Community Voice.
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GenWest Sunrise Social Groups is currently seeking new members for its Brimbank, Melton and Wyndham programs. The free groups are organised by Genwest and provide a social space for women, gender diverse and nonbinary people, who have a disability, chronic health issues and/or mental health challenges. The groups meet fortnightly in each of the municipalities, and undertake activities such as barbeques, zoo visits, and arts and crafts sessions and more. The meet-ups also often include guest speakers to present on topics like health and wellbeing, relationships, and safety. GenWest Sunrise Social Group participant Pauline Herrmann said Sunrise makes her feel like it’s “always sunny”. “Everything brightens up … more colours,” she said. Sunrise Social Groups also have fortnightly
• No special knowledge or experience needed
We’ll support you to participate Council will provide support to make sure all members can participate, such as: • Interpretation • Vision or hearing support • Assistance with childcare of other caring responsibilities • Transport support When you register please let us know about your special requirements.
Learn more To learn more about the Brimbank Community Voice visit yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ brimbank-community-voice
How to join If you’re interested, visit yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ brimbank-community-voice or scan the QR code to sign up
Registrations close at midnight on Friday 5 May 2023.
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Cannabis grow house found Police uncovered an alleged cannabis grow house and arrested a man for possessing a firearm in Taylors Lakes on Wednesday, April 5. Police were initially called to a Cardigan Crescent residence after a neighbour heard a burglary in progress at 12.20am. Although the offenders fled before police arrived, officers located what appeared to be remnants of cannabis plants in the driveway of the property. Police then entered the premises and discovered an alleged hydroponic cannabis set up and four rooms full of plants. A fifth room appeared to have been cleared-out. Officers guarding the scene noticed a grey Ford Focus driving slowly around the property. A nearby unit pulled over the car and officers discovered a firearm in the vehicle. A 34-year-old Cairnlea man was arrested at the scene in relation to the firearm.
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Nursing boost Melbourne artist Matthias Schack-Arnott is premiering his new work ‘Tethering’ at The Substation in Newport later this month. (Damjan Janevski) 326305_05
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Multi-award winning artist, composer and percussionist Matthias Schack-Arnott is premiering his new work ‘Tethering’ at The Substation in Newport later this month. He is performing the experimental music and sound installation over three nights from Thursday, April 13 to Saturday, April 15, from 7.30pm, as well as hosting a post-show artist talk on Friday, April 14. Schack-Arnott said the performance uses a range of repurposed and recycled organic and
manmade materials, including mussel shells, seed pods and polystyrene quivering and chattering on a rope system. “It’s got quite a trashy aesthetic,” he said. “It really is about networks. “I want to create an exploration of the visceral nature of sound.” Schack-Arnott said it will be special to exhibit his new work at The Substation. “It’s a space that has a long history of supporting experimental soundwork,” he said.
Nursing and midwifery students may have access to free degrees, scholarships, and sign-on bonuses thanks to state government’s Free Nursing and Midwifery initiative. More than 10,000 Victorian nursing and midwifery students who begin their studies this year or next will be reimbursed up to $16,500 – covering the cost of their degree. Applications for all scholarships open April 26. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Ramp and lane changes at the M80 interchange
From 9pm Friday 14 April - 5am Monday 15 May
Upcoming ramp and lane closures As we continue to build new ramps and re-build lanes along the West Gate Freeway and at the M80 interchange, we need to close some ramps and lanes at the interchange to make room for ongoing works.
What this means From 9pm Friday 14 April - 5am Monday 15 May: • One lane will be closed on the Princes Freeway inbound at the interchange. Please follow signs and allow extra travel time.
• During this time, we will also close the Princes Freeway citybound ramp to Geelong Road and Princes Freeway citybound ramp to the West Gate Freeway overnight. Detours will be in place. For exact dates and times, go to bigbuild.vic.gov.au/disruptions
Remember that other works may be happening at the same time. Check for disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au/disruptions Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne
6 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023
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From April 2023
FEATURING ... EDUCATION
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Teachers need to be better trained to help autistic kids Universities need to make a fundamental change in how they educate teachers to meet the needs of autistic children. Australian universities need to get on the same page in preparing teachers to meet the needs of autistic students or risk more teachers leaving the profession and failing generations of autistic children. New research has shown Australian universities are failing to prepare teachers and post graduate educators to meet the needs of burgeoning numbers of autistic students in Australian classrooms.
‘‘
The reality is that many Australian teachers are not prepared to deal with the diverse needs of students on the autism spectrum
’’
- Rahul Ganguly Senior lecturer and education researcher from Charles Sturt University, Dr Rahul Ganguly, says educating students on the autism spectrum is arguably the most challenging task confronting schools worldwide. From 2015 to 2018, rates of autism have increased by an estimated 25 per cent. “Highly individualised and idiosyncratic personality traits, manifestation of irregular and occasionally even advanced skills that accompany diagnoses of autism, and a dramatic increase in the autism prevalence rates co-exist with an increased need for schools, specifically teachers, to deliver empirically supported practices,” Dr Ganguly says. “However, the reality is that many Australian teachers are not prepared to deal with the
diverse needs of students on the autism spectrum or the extreme responsibilities that come with being an inclusive education teacher.” He says part out of the fallout from that mismatch are high levels of teacher attrition (75 per cent every 10 years), with just 30 per
cent intending to stay in the profession until retirement. “With so many teachers leaving the profession, many students on the spectrum are being taught by less experienced teachers year after year,” Dr Ganguly says. “Its little wonder that research shows that
students on the autism spectrum have the worst educational outcomes of any students with a disability.” In Australia, there is no uniform requirement for teacher education programs to offer training in autism. “Our research suggests that most do not incorporate direct instruction on autism-specific EBP,” Dr Ganguly says. “Given the plethora of untested interventions in the field of autism, having a less experienced teaching force does not bode well for students with autism.” Dr Ganguly says the solution lies in providing consistent education for teachers in the use of scientific methods and evidence-based practices (EBP). “Instead, what we have found is that the importance of training educators with autism-related disability-specific knowledge actually runs contrary to Initial Teacher Education (ITE) Programs in Australia,” he says. “These programs have given preference to noncategorical and cross-categorical approaches in the belief that generically trained teachers with occasional in-service training can effectively teach children on the autism spectrum. “Even in our research on postgraduate courses in Australia, we found that many postgraduate courses in special and inclusive education do not consistently cover evidence-based practices. “We also found a great variation in the nature of the postgraduate programs. “At a time when there is an increased need for teachers with specialised training to teach and lead teaching of students with ASC and related disorders, Initial Teacher Education and Postgraduate programs in Australia are moving away from such specialised emphases.”
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Back to school Twins Colby and Sebastian, and Rania and Dania, were among the excited pupils starting school at Furlong Park School for Deaf Children last week. The school reopened for 2021 on Thursday and there was plenty of fun for the two sets of twins and their school friends. Colby and Sebastian, 8, and Rania and Dania, 6, are two of three sets of twins at the school this year. The school has about 65 students. A third set of twins will start on February 11 and will be part of the school’s early years program. Principal Lee Bullock said it was possibly the first time the school had welcomed three sets of twins.
(Damjan Janevski) 226450_01
Back to school
Tara Murray
Twins Colby and Sebastian, and Rania and Dania, were among the excited pupils starting school at Furlong Park School for Deaf Children last week. set up after the West Footscray warehouse fire By Tara Murray “The urgency to clean it [industry] up has delayed for 12 months. “We’ve been waiting for so long to have which spewed toxic fumes across the western never been greater.” The school reopened for 2021 on Mr Rowley said during his time with confidence to be able to breath fresh air. suburbs for days in August 2018. Two western suburbs advocates are calling for She said the group, a non-political alliance government action after a waste management LeadWest, from 2010-18, one of the biggest Confidence that our creeks aren’t going to be Thursday and there was plenty of fire fun for concerns raised by local councils was the need polluted.” in Brooklyn last week. of community groups, organisations and
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for a cleaner, greener and more liveable western metropolitan area. “We were constantly talking about it with the other tiers of government, about the investment needed in the west to make it cleaner and greener. “It just seems that it is taking a long time to get there.” Mr Rowley said an Environment Protection Act, which changes how the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) regulates pollution, waste and contamination in Victoria, had been
He suggests forming a steering committee which would include the EPA, WorkSafe, MFB and council representatives to have a co-ordinated approach to industry clean-up. “I don’t think questions are being asked on Spring Street as often as they should.” He also proposed government funding to help bring old industrial estates up to the 21st century and the introduction of better air quality monitoring systems. Ms Hartland is a member of the Facebook group Anti-Toxic Waste Alliance, which was
individuals, wants action. “There’s been a spate of these fires,” she said. “There’s been three in the last 10 days. “The EPA and the state government don’t seem to be taking it seriously.” Ms Hartland said the group wanted more regulation on industrial sites, clear information about when the EPA is called in and when and for how long air quality equipment is set up. She has also called for the act to be introduced. ■ Fire probed: Page 3
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There have been at least eight factory, waste management or tip fires across the west and Hume since October, while the Kealba landfill has had underground fires burning continuously for more than a year. Former LeadWest chief executive Craig Rowley and former state MLC member Colleen Hartland say enough is enough. “It’s a long-running issue,” Mr Rowley said. “It doesn’t matter which party has been in power at the time, they haven’t done enough clean-up of the west.
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Fire sparks call to arms
Or visit brimbanknorthwest.starweekly.com.au/subscribe Tuesday, 11 April, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 7
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Call for ‘nuanced’ tree approach Brimbank council has called on the Municipality Association of Victoria (MAV) to adopt a more nuanced approach to curb fire outbreaks in urban areas than cutting down trees nearer to power lines. The call is contained in a motion which the council submitted for consideration at the MAV conference scheduled for October 12. The council is against the current fire control measures by Electric Line Clearance Consultative Committee of pruning down
trees closer to power lines in both urban and rural areas without factoring the needed cooling function of plants in towns. “Urban and rural trees are subject to the same guidelines but a more nuanced approach is required for urban trees where fires are rarely started by trees. Healthy, well-formed trees are required across metropolitan Melbourne to mitigate the impacts of heatwaves, to support Human Thermal Comfort and the ongoing liveability of Melbourne,” reads part
of the council motion. The council maintained that pruning down trees was making Melbourne hotter and raising the demand for air-conditioning. Advocating for the urban tree canopy of 30 per cent across Melbourne, Brimbank councillors urged the other 78 municipalities to consider the effects of climate change as well. “Climate change impacts need to be considered in determining the functions and
values of urban trees. The cost for councils to adhere to current guidelines has significantly increased recently as the Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) has become very strict on what is allowed,” reads part of the motion. Continues the motion: “It is understood that the ESV is less inclined to consider environmental issues and the impact of climate change on the urban environment than other State regulators and other states have a more balanced approach than Victoria.”
Youth mentors needed Big Brothers Big Sisters Australia (BBBS) is seeking volunteer mentors to meet “overwhelming” demand for the program’s expansion into Melbourne’s west. BBBS supports at-risk young people through long term, one-on-one mentoring in which young people aged seven to 17 are matched with a mentor to spend one to two hours a week with for a minimum of 12 months. Mentors spend their time with young people doing activities specific to the young person’s interests, and provide a safe environment to help build confidence and resilience. Noah, 13, said he has enjoyed the six months he’s spent with his mentor Anton. “It has been good because I get to hang out with Anton and I get to learn things from him. We play soccer and basketball and we go out for ice cream,” he said. “Once we went to WynCity and we got to play bowling and arcade games and I loved that, I thought it was really fun.” BBBS chief executive Mark Watt said the organisation has a wait list of over 50 young
people waiting to be paired with mentors across Melton, Brimbank, Wyndham and Hobsons Bay. “We’ve been operating for many years in Melbourne but we’ve just started a new program in the western suburbs … We started about six months ago and we found the need for BBBS mentoring overwhelming,” he said. “It’s really as easy as developing a friendship with a young person and doing positive activities … activities for young people just wanting to spend time with someone, and have someone in their lives. “We find the outcome is often a young person gaining confidence, gaining social skills, reducing their fears, their anxiety, and really just participating more in the community, and in healthier activities.” Details: https://bigbrothersbigsisters.org.au/ Liam McNally Noah and his BBBS mentor Anton. (Supplied)
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‘Critical’ need for blood Western suburbs residents are being encouraged to register their pets as blood donors as pet blood supplies reach “critical levels”. The Greencross Veterinary Hospital at the University of Melbourne’s Werribee site put out the call last week as supplies across the network of speciality and emergency hospitals dwindled. Vets use blood products to treat patients with many life-threatening conditions, such as severe blood loss from trauma, rat bait toxicity, and some immune-mediated diseases and infectious diseases. Like human hospitals, veterinary hospitals rely on blood donor programs to ensure quick access to safe blood for critical patients who need life-saving blood transfusions. Greencross Veterinary Hospital emergency and critical care specialist and clinical director Liam Donaldson said the hospital is in desperate need of blood donations. “Just as we rely on blood donations, pets also need their fellow furry friends to be blood donors and our supplies are running extremely low. We are now at a point where we need to make difficult decisions in terms of which patients receive blood products – as an emergency vet this is a choice we never ever want to be forced to make,” Dr Donaldson said. “Unfortunately, with our blood donor program containing such low reserves, and given the current situation, blood transfusions for pets cannot be guaranteed. Without urgent blood donations, many of our patients will be left in a dire situation. “Accessing blood on short notice is not always possible for a couple of reasons – firstly because pets don’t have a national blood bank like we do for humans, and secondly dogs and cats can only donate so much blood at one time. By having a group of willing donors on call, we
Greencross Veterinary Hospital’s first blood donor, Lenny, a 15-month-old Golden retriever. (Supplied)
can ensure that we have ample supply for when our pets and clients need it the most.” Dr Donaldson encourages pet owners with a healthy dog or cat to consider registering their pet as a blood donor. Pets must meet specific criteria to enrol to be a blood donor. Dog blood donors must weigh over 23 kilograms, be between one and five years old, be up-to-date with all vaccinations,
worming and external parasite control, be in good health and have never received a blood transfusion. Cat blood donors must be of a larger build and weigh over 4kg be aged between one and five years, be up-to-date with vaccinations, worming and external parasite control, be in good health and have never received a blood transfusion. Details: 8721 1414
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Jobs top of Melton’s list Melton council has made a submission in the lead up to the May state government budget, focused on projects that build long-term sustainable jobs growth with more investment in skills and training. Council’s key priorities include constructing the Outer Metropolitan Ring and Western Intermodal Freight Terminal, better main roads, trains and buses, fully funding school crossing supervisors, and greater investment in early childhood health and education. These asks are in addition to commitments made by the state government in the lead up to last year’s state election which included a new TAFE in Cobblebank, upgrades to local schools, $650 million for the Melton train line and a business case to upgrade to the Western Highway. Council is seeking timelines for these, including a call to include them in the May budget. Mayor Lara Carli said the budget submission is about “long-term jobs growth, from better skills and education to lay the groundwork for growth industries like supply chain and logistics, education and health”. “We are calling on the Victorian Government to get on with building the Western Intermodal Freight Terminal that will be the catalyst for up to 39,000 jobs in supply chain and logistics,” she said. “With $20 million committed to the business case for the Western Highway, we want to see this translate into real works starting soon. We need to get our residents to jobs, education and services.”
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Mayor’s message Cr Lara Carli
STAY INFORMED
I hope you all had a lovely Easter and enjoyed a long weekend spent with family and friends.
Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial
Neighbourhood House Week We’re celebrating Neighbourhood House Week from 8 to 14 May with free activities including a family arts night and a beeswax moulding workshop! Neighbourhood House Week recognises the important contribution over 1,000 neighbourhood houses make in local communities across Australia. To book, visit meltonlearning.com.au/NHW
April is a big month for families. We just hosted another wonderful Lakeside Alive with thousands of locals turning out at Lake Caroline for all the family fun. If you’re looking for more to keep the kids occupied these school holidays, don’t forget we’ve got so many free activities, visit our website for details.
It’s school holiday time!
Don’t forget, domestic pet registrations are due now!
The holidays are a time for having fun and making memories – which is why we’ve served up a full program from African drumming, sports carnivals and hip hop classes to building your own mini computer.
All cats and dogs over three months old need to be microchipped and registered with Council. You can renew or apply for pet registration online at melton.vic.gov.au/petrego
There’s something for everyone – and almost all of it free – so jog on down to your local library, community centre or leisure centre, or hop on melton.vic. gov.au/schoolholidays to book in.
Coburn Ward with Cr Sophie Ramsey It’s hard to believe it’s April already. I sincerely hope everyone who celebrates had a beautiful Easter with family and friends, and that you all keep safe and warm now that the colder months are approaching. It’s been a hectic time at Council, as we’ve been busily working on our budget planning for the 2023/2024 financial year. This year, I’ve focussed my attention on requesting upgrades to the Cobblebank Indoor Stadium, including improved air conditioning and Wi-Fi access for stadium users. I’m also lobbying to have key carparks sealed, and for upgrades to Melton South Community Centre and The Willows Homestead, along with the installation of a pedestrian crossing to Opalia Shopping Centre, key road upgrades and upgrades to a
Register your pet
There’s school holiday activities happening this week and next all across the City of Melton.
number of pocket parks within the city. I’ve also called for improved hardship application processes for residents who are struggling with the escalating costs of living and am advocating for the urgent upgrade of Ferris Road; in particular, widening of the road and installation of traffic lights on the north side near Bunnings. I look forward to updating you on the outcome of these initiatives once the draft budget has been finalised. I’ve also been seeking timeframes for the over/underpass of the railway crossing in Melton. I’d like to take this opportunity to wish our Orthodox residents a very Happy Easter and look forward to seeing you all at Anzac services on 25 April. Don’t hesitate to contact me at sophie.ramsey@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 067. I’d love to hear your thoughts about Coburn Ward.
Explore our local history at Heritage Fest! Melton Heritage Festival, our annual celebration of all things history and heritage, returns this month with an exciting slate of activities, workshops and talks to invite you to explore our rich cultural history. The Heritage Festival runs from 18 April to 21 May and features family history digitisation workshops at Melton Library and tours of Melton Cemetery guided by the Melton Family History Society. For more information, go to melton.vic.gov.au/heritagefestival or call your local library on 9747 5300.
Next month is the first state budget since the election and we have been advocating to make sure the promises made to our communities get delivered. We’re asking the Victorian Government to help create longterm jobs growth to support our fast-growing population – from skills training and education opportunities to supporting growth industries that will create local jobs! Our key priorities for state government funding include constructing the Outer Metropolitan Ring and the Western Intermodal Freight Terminal, better major roads, trains and buses, fully funding school crossing supervisors, and greater investment in early childhood health and education. These asks are in addition to welcome commitments made by the Victorian Government in the lead up to last year’s state election – including a new TAFE in Cobblebank, upgrades to local schools, $650 million for the Melton train line and a business case to upgrade to the Western Highway. I look forward to sharing the outcome when the state budget is released next month. 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
Your Councillors – Visit melton.vic.gov.au/councillors to find your ward Councillors and their contact details
Deputy Mayor Cr Julie Shannon
Cr Steve Abboushi
Cr Justine Farrugia
A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all 10 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023
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Cr Goran Kesic
Cr Kathy Majdlik
Cr Sophie Ramsey
Cr Bob Turner
Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg
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Mayor Cr Lara Carli
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COMMUNITY
Enjoying Easter fun in Sunshine The Easter Bunny made a special visit to Sunshine last Wednesday for an afternoon of Easter-themed activities at R T Pollard Gardens. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janeveski captured these photos.
ODETTE, 3
GRACE, 4
EVIE, 1
Brae Sanajko with Easter bunny. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 325930
Pupils from every year level took part in the colour run, even principal Michael Uzunovski (right) joined in on the action. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 325364
A sea of colours at Albanvale Primary School Albanvale Primary School marked the last day of term one with a cultural day on Thursday, April 6. Pupils marked the occassion with a colour run and disco. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski visited the school to capture the colurful fun. Tuesday, 11 April, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 11
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Homeowner left feeling ‘sick’ By Zoe Moffatt Home builder Porter Davis was placed into liquidation on Friday, March 31, leaving more than 1500 unfinished projects across Victoria and homeowners in limbo. Western suburbs homeowner Julie McDonald purchased her property with Porter Davis in January and said the final inspection was scheduled for April 14. Ms McDonald is a single mother to three teenagers and said she recently gave notice to leave her short-term rental. “They booked in the final inspection last Wednesday … they sent [a confirmation] email and text, it was booked in … for April 14,” Ms McDonald said.
“I’m in a short-term rental so I gave notice to move out … [now] nobody can tell me anything, I feel absolutely sick. “I just feel sick and overwhelmed.” After finding out about the collapse Ms McDonald said she contacted her landlord and was told she could stay but she still has questions about the future. “I feel like I’m living in limbo, no one can tell me yes, and no one can tell me no.” Ms McDonald said she heard about the collapse on the news and has not been able to get in touch with anyone from Porter Davis. “I rang about four different numbers but they’re all either turned off or don’t answer,” she said. “It’s just crap they were operating as normal two days before … It’s just crazy.”
Ms McDonald said the property was supposed to be ready in February and now she is having to pay rent and fees for a storage locker. “[I was] supposed to be in February, then they put it off to March, then they put it off to April. “I’m paying storage fees, pretty soon I’m going to be paying for a house I haven’t got.” Accounting firm Grant Thornton has appointed three liquidators to the case and a spokesperson from the company said a range of aspects contributed to the collapse. “The extremely challenging environment for residential home building has directly contributed to the [Porter Davis] Group’s financial position,” the spokesperson said.
“[This includes] rising input costs, supply chain delays, labour shortages, and a drop in demand for new homes in 2023 impacting the group’s liquidity.” With Ms McDonald wants to know if another builder is going to be taking over and when she can move in. “There’s fencing left to do, the lawn and kitchen appliances,” she said. “I’d prefer to get someone in to do what’s left … and have that subtracted from my mortgage.” The spokesperson said the liquidators were “working to urgently determine” how it can help customers, including engaging with key stakeholders and potential interested parties who may be willing to take over the current customer contracts.
Art mirrors life in west
12544962-AV15-22
Western suburbs multidisciplinary artist Mita Chowdhury has aimed to pull back the curtains of the west’s identity and her own place in the area as part of her new exhibition. Titled ‘Here, out at the West’, the exhibition from the Tarneit-based artist is currently open at the Laneway Gallery at the Woods Street Arts Space in Laverton. Chowdhury said the pieces spoke as a response to the skewed perceptions others have for the western suburbs and aimed to highlight the stories of its multicultural form and its First Nations past. “It is quite a highly multicultural community,” she said. “I don’t think their stories are being heard. “I am thankful and grateful to the First Nations people.”
12 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023
Coming to Australia from Bangladesh in 2007 in her early 20s, Chowdhury said her work was a response to the discrimination she and others like her have faced. “We all share the same discrimination,” she said. “This is a manifestation of how I feel. “I can only speak for myself.” Receiving the RMIT University Cultural vision scholarship for 2022, Chowdhury’s work has ranged from painting to digital photomontage. “As far as I can remember, I always wanted to be an artist,” she said. Details: www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/visit/ Experience/Whats-On/Laneway-GalleryMita-Chowdhury or www.facebook.com/mita. au.art Matthew Sims
Mita Chowdhury’s exhibition ‘Here, out at the West’ is open at the Woods Street Arts Space in Laverton. (Damjan Janevski) 325632_02
STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
BEHIND THE NEWS
Loving our four-legged friends RSPCA Victoria’s 2022 Pet Poll surveyed over 12,000 Victorian pet owners to unveil the quirky relationships they have with their pets. However it seems that these quirks are more common than we might think, as Hannah Hammoud discovers.
H
olly Johannessen lives in Craigieburn with her one-and-a-half-year-old dog, Sir Lexington. Whilst he might have a very fancy name, Holly assures that he is far from it. “He is extremely playful and very social,” she says. “He is also really friendly and very, very cuddly. But he is very scent driven and likes to roll around in gross stuff in the grass.” Holly says that what others might think are quirky habits, is her version of normal, everyday life. “I talk to Lexington a lot but because I’ve been living on my own, I’ve also noticed that I’ve started talking on his behalf to myself.” An RSPCA poll revealed that Victorians love to celebrate their pet’s birthdays, with over 74 per cent of dog owners saving their pet’s birthday in their diaries and celebrating with treats and gifts. Holly threw a kids-esque first birthday party for Sir Lexington as a way to say thank-you to the many people in her personal life who have helped her with Lexington. “My sister made him a crazy dog cake. There were decorations and costumes and all of his dog best friends came over.”
‘‘
They make you feel needed and wanted and - Holly Johannesen loved
’’
Holly shares her bed every night with Lexington, she says that for many, including herself, pets are a source of unconditional love. “They make you feel needed and wanted and loved.” Tapping into community pride, the poll drew data from across the state with 584 Victorian postcodes represented. Julie Hargood lives in Craigieburn with her four-legged family of three cats and two dogs, along with four fish and about 100 birds that she feeds each night. “I put fruit out for the birds and I go through about 20 kilos of seed a week,” she says Julie adopted both her dogs from a local rescue centre, and sheltered all three of her cats after finding them on the street. “I love animals. I know this sounds awful, but I love animals more than people,” says Julie. “I’ve got T-shirts and denim jackets with my pets’ faces on it, and I’ve also got earrings with them on there. “The printer I go to, he’s actually printed out stickers so I can put them on my car as well.” When asked about her quirky habits with her pets, Julie says that with no children of her own, her furry family have become her kids. “I talk to my animals all the time, we talk about anything and everything. I tell them how much I love them and give them lots of kisses,” she says. “We bought my 11-year-old dog named Panda a pram because we noticed when we were coming home from the park one day, that he was getting very tired and stopping all the time.” Julie says while she doesn’t do any special birthday celebrations for her pets, they are spoiled with love each day. “I suppose they have a birthday every day, they don’t need a special occasion for it” Both Mia Son and Ruby Mcneill adopted rescue animals from Second Chance Animal Rescue in Epping. Across the poll data, there was a strong consensus with 98.4 per cent of pet owners admitting to speaking to their pets every day, including Mia. “I talk to my pets regularly. I think my
Top left: Holly Johannesen celebrates Sir Lexington’s birthday. Top right: Julie Hargood prints custom shirts that feature her pets. Above: Mia Son’s cats, Ozzie and Momo. Left: Ruby Mcneill adopted her deaf cat Minty from Second Chance Animal Rescue. (Pictures: Supplied)
oldest cat thought her name was ‘don’t’ for about five years because I would constantly be talking to her to tell her not to do something, or eat something she shouldn’t,” Mia says. Mia says her cat Momo’s adoption profile describing her as the ‘devil’s spawn’ is what sealed the deal to bring Momo home and keep company with her other trouble-maker
cat, Ozzie. “She was literally described as a demon and I thought, good, my demon needs a friend.” The RSPCA poll shared that 79.3 per cent of the combined respondents let their pets sleep in their bed. This is true for both Ruby and Mia who each have three pets at home and share a crowded bed with them.
Ruby says the double bed she shares with her partner has been taken over by her three cats. “Leia the kitten will sleep pretty much on top of my face. Anna the ragdoll will sleep under the doona cuddled up next to me. And the last one, Minty, will sleep at the end of the bed.” Tuesday, 11 April, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 13
NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Students get to explore the ‘G By Matthew Sims Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) adults and children would soon have the opportunity to take part in physical activity on Melbourne’s hallowed ground – the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation (WBCF) has announced the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) Foundation as the presenting partner of the WBCF’s CALDplay program, a free program which delivers sport engagement sessions to more
than 1000 CALD adults who have newly arrived to Australia, as a way to develop their English skills and increase social participation. Working alongside schools across the western suburbs, the program would take students out of the classroom for trips to the ’G to break down economic, cultural and language barriers which newly arrived residents commonly face. The WBCF and the MCC launched the partnership on Wednesday, March 29, with 200 migrant and refugee adult participants visiting the Australian Sports Museum and taking a tour of the MCG.
Western Bulldogs community and government relations general manager Kashif Bouns said the club was “extremely proud” to be partnering with the MCC Foundation to create opportunities to unite CALD communities. “The partnership will allow us to continue to provide this program to hundreds of newly arrived adults and children for free, giving them the chance to not only learn sport but become more deeply involved in their community.” MCC Foundation chair Sally Macindoe said the new partnership would deliver a “significant positive impact” on individuals and the wider community.
“The partnership with the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation is very exciting and fundamentally aligns with the MCC Foundation’s commitment to make sport more accessible for all people, regardless of cultural, economic or geographic barriers,” she said. “Together with the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation, the MCC Foundation is thrilled to play a part in helping these students build skills, forge connections and pursue their full potential through the fun of the sporting field.” Details: www.westernbulldogs.com.au/ foundation/programs/settlement-services
24 hours of festival fun Get ready for 24 hours of live music, movies, art and more at Wyndham’s newest festival – 24. Organised by Wyndham council, the festival will transform Chirnside Park in Werribee into a 24-hour free festival wonderland, with a live music stage, outdoor cinema, roving performances, light installations, live art and more. The action kicks off at 6pm, on Saturday, May 6, and will run through until 6pm, Sunday, May 7, with the opportunity to stay up through the night, or drop in across the 24 hours. Creative City portfolio holder, Cr Marcel Mahfoud, encouraged residents to experience the fun and wonder of 24. “The festival will feature a fantastic line-up of music from around the world including Ethiopian roots and reggae from Nhatty Man, indie rock from Berkley, master of the kora Amadou Souso & Friends, local hip hop artist, NOMAD, Wurundjeri dance group the Djirri
Djirri, RnB supergroup Halo Vocal Ensemble and many more,” Cr Mahoud said. “Over the course of 24 hours, you’ll also be able to see live artworks created in real time by Slow Art Collective and renowned street artist, Callum Preston. “You can also catch a movie at the 24-Hour Outdoor Cinema, enjoy beautiful art installations or dance your way through the night at the Silent Disco with White Night crowd favourite, UKI – a giant, robotic insect on wheels with its own DJ decks. “During the day and early evening you’ll be able to enjoy high energy sets on the Riverside Stage, while at night, 24 will transition into something a little more magical with glowing light installations and other quiet, ambient experiences to enjoy between 11pm – 9am.” The program will also feature a free, 24 hour outdoor cinema. Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/24
24 will feature a silent disco. (Supplied)
Order online now!
Toys and Costumes aussietoysonline.com.au 12599491-SN15-23
14 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023
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COMMENT
Easy X-rays for eager meerkats An exciting animal healthcare initiative at Werribee Open Range Zoo is enabling keepers to take voluntary X-rays of its meerkats without the need for a medical procedure under anesthetic. A zoo training program is teaching the meerkats to confidently step onto an X-ray plate, which is placed by zoo veterinarians and keepers inside the meerkats’ habitat, while a portable X-ray machine secures the medical imagery. It’s being made possible thanks months of training and trust building between staff and animals, a custom designed X-ray device, and the meerkats’ enthusiasm for a rewarding tasty treat. Werribee Open Range Zoo African River Trail keeper Eliza Baker said it’s exciting to see meerkats enthusiastically and intelligently participating in the X-ray sessions. “All of the scans are being taken within the meerkats’ habitat, which means the meerkats don’t need to leave the comfort of their own home, and we’re minimising any potential stress,” Ms Baker said. The healthcare training of the meerkats is part of a zoo-wide animal training program
that provides the highest quality healthcare for the animals. Based on the scientific approach of Applied Behaviour Analysis, the training uses positive reinforcement, provides choice and control, and allows the animals to voluntarily participate in their own medical check-ups, which significantly reduces any stress and handling. The portable X-ray device was designed by zookeepers, vets, and the Zoo’s trade staff. An X-ray machine is attached to the top of an adjustable tripod that has the capability to be manoeuvred into a range of positions. Ms Baker said the key to acquiring the clear radiographs of the inquisitive and active African native animals is to encourage them to remain as still as possible. “The meerkats absolutely love peanut butter, so we find they will approach us voluntarily and remain still enough to ensure the X-rays are sharp, allowing our vets to make accurate medical assessments,” Ms Baker said. “They are generally very eager to participate because their involvement is always positively rewarded with some high value nutritious treats.” The meerkat X-ray training is part of a proactive healthcare routine at the Zoo.
Meerkats participating in their healthcare through voluntary X-rays. (Supplied: Zoos Victoria)
STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
NEWS
FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors
35 years ago
25 years
20 years ago
10 years
April 13, 1988
April 1998
April 15, 2003
April 9, 2013
After years of neglect the St Albans Rd railway overpass will be repaired and cleaned up.
The national executive of the Australian Labour Party (ALP) has been urged to investigate how the candidates for the the seats of Doutta Galla Province and Sunshine were chosen.
Homicide squad detectives are appealing for help to identify the body of a man discovered at Brimbank Park, Kealba.
Nurses and paramedics are calling on Western Health to employ permanent security guards amid concerns of escalating violence in emergency departments.
Tuesday, 11 April, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 15
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
Black Powder Mill open day An open day will be held at the Black Powder Mill on April 29. The event will empower attendees with a general understanding of the history of the mill. Event runs from 10.30am -3.30pm There will be presentations at 11am and 1.30pm. The mill is at the corner of Parklea Avenue and Grassy Point Road, Cairnlea. ■ 0417 519 043, or Shauncrosbie@hotmail.com
Women’s Wellbeing Program Women’s Support Network is inviting women to join a 12-week program that will run in Sunshine. The program, Root, Moss, Blossom, Feather, includes gentle movement, short meditation and art for wellbeing activities. No art experience required. ■ info@wsn.org.au, or Ko, 0458 947 507
Vaccine hub A new Sunday vaccine service will run at IPC Health’s Deer Park GP clinic. The clinic will be open every Sunday as a walk-in vaccination hub from 10am - 2pm. No appointments are needed and clients without Medicare cards are welcome. COVID-19 booster vaccines, Novavax, Pfizer first does for children older than five and MPox for monkeypox are available. ■ 0490 745 436, or vaccinations@ipchealth.com.au The Keilor Evening View Club meets at 6.30pm on the first Tuesday of each month at The Atrium at Taylors Lakes Hotel. Come along and enjoy a meal and fun night with friendly group of ladies. ■ Robyn, 0425 387 880
Palliative volunteers needed Mercy Palliative Care is looking for volunteers to visit palliative care patients in their homes to offer social support. ■ 9313 5700, or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au
Meredith Thomas exhibition BAY is a selection of themed works from Port Phillip Bay. The larger studio works consider colour, surface reflection and depth in a more leisurely fashion, and are richer and more textural. The exhibition is on show at the Brimbank Community and Civic Centre until Thursday, April 20. ■ artspaces@brimbank.vic.gov.au or 9249 4600
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of scenic artist Paul Anthony, author Heather Anthony and photographer Lawrence Winder. (Damjan Janevski) 326897_01
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
a relaxed and social setting. If you like playing cards this is for you. ■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817
month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. ■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420
Parkinson’s support group
U3A Melton
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
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 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
Bacchus Marsh Market
Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club
Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park. ■ Michael, 0417 307 572
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.
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
Sunshine Community Brass
Take weight off naturally
Melton South Knit & Natter
Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays from 7.30pm. ■ Andrew, 0419 444 620
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
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
Deer Park Lions Club
St Albans senior citizens St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-1.30pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day. ■ Roma, 0435 991 064
The Gap on Graham The Gap provides a place for Melton youth 16 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 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
Zonta club meets 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
Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each
(iStock)
Keilor Evening View Club
PUZZLES No. 128
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
2 3 9 2 3 6
2 6 7 9 3
3 1 8 3 4
6 1 6 3 9 7
1
Sit for an artist (4) Extinct flying reptile (9) Exaggerate (9)
1 2 4
medium
4 5 8 2 9
27 28 29
24 25
DOWN
9 4 7 8 6 1
8
Pontiff (4) Railway vehicle (10) Ghost (7) Traditions (7) Music-writer (8) Member of a Jamaican religious movement (5) Modern Persia (4) Large warship (10) Thin spaghetti (10) Beatles song, Hey – (4) Of the sun (5) Calculated quantity (8) Consisting of birch wood (7) Make better (7) Impeded (10) Minute particle (4)
14 15 18 20 21 23 26
Happen (5) Witness (7) False gods (5) Simple (a saying) (4,2,3) Straddling (4) Incapable of being seen (9) Chatty (9) Aquatic home (9) Arabic form of Abraham (7) Words for a song (5) Itchy skin condition of animals (5) Umpire (colloq) (4) Duration (4)
5 6 7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23
ACROSS 1 3 10 11 12 13
No. 128
DECODER
No. 128
3 5 6 2 8 9
4 7 1 3 4 1 2 8 6 5 9
1 8 hard
6 4
5
6
7
8
9
10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
G S 16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
AGILE ALIAS ALIVE ALPHA AORTA ASIDE AWARE CASTE CATER CLAWS CLEAN CLIME DEPTH DRESS EERIE ENDOW ENROL ERASE FALSE FEINT FLORA
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
7 5 9 4 1 3 8 2 6 1 2 3 8 5 6 4 7 9 8 4 6 2 9 7 1 3 5 4 9 2 1 3 8 5 6 7 3 6 7 5 2 4 9 1 8 5 8 1 7 6 9 3 4 2 2 1 8 3 7 5 6 9 4 6 3 5 9 4 2 7 8 1 9 7 4 6 8 1 2 5 3
8 2 9 3 4 5 7 1 6 7 5 1 6 8 2 4 9 3 4 3 6 7 1 9 8 5 2 5 8 4 9 3 1 6 2 7 9 7 2 4 5 6 3 8 1 6 1 3 2 7 8 9 4 5 3 4 8 1 2 7 5 6 9 2 9 5 8 6 3 1 7 4 1 6 7 5 9 4 2 3 8
8 4 3 5 1 2 9 7 6 1 9 5 6 7 3 2 8 4 2 6 7 8 9 4 1 3 5 5 8 2 7 4 6 3 9 1 6 3 9 2 8 1 5 4 7 4 7 1 9 3 5 6 2 8 3 1 6 4 2 8 7 5 9 9 2 8 1 5 7 4 6 3 7 5 4 3 6 9 8 1 2
10 words: Very good
T
I
O
O
O N
M
No. 128 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
O S E
S
G
N G S
I
W
R I M P A C E R D O R E
P R A
S
STAVE STEEL TINGE TREAT TWEET URINE WIRES
7 LETTERS AMMONIA AMNESIA AVERAGE EYESORE PRIMARY SASSIER
6 LETTERS DEEPLY EASILY INTACT UNSEAT
8 LETTERS FLAMINGO SALEABLE TIMELESS WEREWOLF
14-04-23
N
E
GAMMA HEELS HERBS IDEAS INNER LIONS MELTS OGLES OPERA PASSE PAWED POLIO RAWER REACH RENDS RESTS REVEL RIVET SOAKS SPREE STATE
coin, commit, common, COMMOTION, coot, icon, into, mono, moon, moot, motion, omit, onto, tonic
O S
2
P E
I
Today’s Aim: 7 words: Good
4 LETTERS CROP CURL DECK FOOD HENS ISLE LAUD OFFS ORES PEWS REED TIPS TOYS TUNA 5 LETTERS ABIDE
I
A
M
C
Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com
A
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”.
14 words: Excellent
hard
P
9-LETTER WORD
No. 128
6 7 $ 9 (
1
medium
N
3
3 LETTERS ADD AGO ARE DAB EEL EGO ELK ERA EVE GEL GOT HAS IRK LAP LIP NOT OPT PEP ROW RYE SHE SUP TEA WAR
F R I M J C Z B XQ P K Y
3 8 1 2
easy
5x5
2
15
8 2 6 3 2 9 6 4 1 7
1
14
3 4 1 6 1 4 7 6 2
V H E L DNUWA T OG S
8 4 3 1
WORDFIT
QUICK QUIZ
1
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are characters in which Shakespeare play?
7
Bad Behavior is a podcast hosted by Nikila Cranage and which other person?
2
Which of these languages has the most native speakers: English, Spanish or Hindi?
8
3
How many Australian prime ministers have served since Federation?
Which Roman knight and Cherusci chieftain led an alliance of Germanic peoples in the Battle of Teutoburg Forest?
9
4
What is the second-largest rainforest on Earth?
And in what year did the battle take place?
5
Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis (pictured) both star in which 2020 rom-com?
6
In what year did Thailand change its name from Siam?
10 Uraguay is located on which continent? ANSWERS: 1. Hamlet 2. Spanish 3. 31 4. The Congo Basin 5. Happiest Season 6. 1939 7. Rosalind Anketell 8. Arminius 9. 9 AD 10. South America
4
QUICK CROSSWORD
3 $ 6 6 ( ' ( 3 7 + 2 * / ( 6 $ / 3 + $ ( ( 5 , ( ) ( , 1 7 : , 5 ( 6 & / , 0 ( ) / 2 5 $ ( 9 ( , 5 . 0 ( / 7 6 1 2 7 ) $ / 6 ( , 6 / ( ' ( ( 3 / < ( < ( 6 2 5 ( $ ' ' & 5 2 3 7 2 < 6 5 ( $ & + 5 ( ( ' 6 $ / ( $ % / ( / , 3 6 $ 6 6 , ( 5 $ 9 ( 5 $ * ( : ( 5 ( :2 / ) 7 , 3 6 ' $ % 6 7 $ 9 ( / $ 8 ' + ( 1 6 ( 5 $ $ 0 1 ( 6 , $ & 8 5 / * $ 0 0 $ 8 1 6 ( $ 7 $ 5 ( 3 2 / , 2 2 3 7 5 2: 7 , 1 * ( , 1 1 ( 5 $: $ 5 ( $ * , / ( & $ 6 7 ( ( 1 ' 2: 6 2 $ . 6 7 5 ( $ 7 5 ( 6 7 6
SUDOKU
Tuesday, 11 April, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 17
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SPORTS QUIZ 1. The West Coast Fever won their first Suncorp Super Netball premiership in what year? 2. Who won the 2023 Formula One Melbourne Grand Prix? 3. How many goals did Gold Coast Sun’s Jack Lukosius kick in his team's round three clash against Geelong?
4. Caitlin Clark plays for which NCAA team?
13. Who is the captain of the Australian Diamonds netball team?
5. How many English Premier League managers have lost their jobs in this current season?
Michael Jordan
14. Which French club does Aussie defender Ellie Carpenter play for? 15. Chelsea will face which team in the 2023 Womens Champions League semifinal?
6. Before this year, which AFL reigning premier was the last team to start the new season 0-3?
16. How many goals did Bulldogs star Jamarra Ugle-Hagan kick during the round three game between Western Bulldogs and Brisbane Lions?
7. True or false: the above team still played finals that year. 8. Australian cricketer Marcus Stoinis plays for which IPL team?
17. Which V8 Supercars driver is considered to have made ‘The Shoey’ famous?
9. What is the name of the 2023 film about Michael Jordan's partnership with Nike?
18. Which US actor portrays the titular character in the boxing-centred Creed films?
10. Melbourne Ice were defeated by which team in the final of the 2023 AWIHL season?
19. In skiing, if a person is known as a ‘jerry’ would they be good or bad at skiing?
11. Which F1 driver faced chaos after his car caught on fire in the F1 qualifying race?
28. Which former Hawk and Eagle coaches Hawthorn? 29. Seton Hall University's basketball team is known by what nickname?
23. The 2022 movie Rise is based on the story of which current NBA star?
30. Which former NBL player and coach was named head coach of South East Melbourne Phoenix?
24. Which country was dropped as host of the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup? 25. Australian point guard Georgia Amoore plays basketball for which US college?
20. In boxing, what does ‘RTD’ mean? 21. Which two teams qualified for the final of the 2023 NCAA Division I women’s basketball tournament?
12. Which AFL coach recently skipped a flight with Hawthorn players on board?
22. Australian Formula One driver Oscar Piastri competes for which motor racing team?
26. Brad Thorn is head coach of which Australia-based Super Rugby team? 27. Which horse won the 2023 Australian Cup?
Oscar Piastri 1. 2022 2. Max Verstappen 3. Five 4. Iowa Hawkeyes 5. 12 6. North Melbourne in 1976 7. True 8. Lucknow Super Giants 9. Air 10. Sydney Sirens 11. Nick Percat 12. Alastair Clarkson 13. Liz Watson 14. Lyon 15. Barcelona 16. Five goals 17. Dave Reynolds 18. Michael B. Jordan 19. Bad 20. Referee Technical Decision – a corner retirement between rounds 21. University of Iowa and Louisiana State University 22. McLaren 23. Giannis Antetokounmpo 24. Indonesia 25. Virginia Tech 26. Queensland Reds 27. Cascadian 28. Sam Mitchell 29. Pirates 30. Mike Kelly
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Kia SUV Hybrid left high and dry By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring Long COVID? Try long Kia. The South Korea automobile maker is suffering lingering post-pandemic ‘sickness’ with its Sorento Hybrid SUV being held up by supply issues and the maker offering the vehicle in top-spec GT-Line only. The same goes for the Plug-in Hybrid. The Sorento sports utility vehicle has been a major part of the Kia catalogue for two decades, with the fourth generation seeing the light of day in 2020 in petrol and diesel variants. Now the range is topped off with petrol / electric hybrids boasting room for seven occupants. The hybrid range kicks off with the front-wheel-drive variant selling for $66,750 before on-road costs. The all-wheel-drive version carries a $3000 premium, pushing the price up to $69,750. The plug-in hybrid Sorento is on sale from $80,330 before on-roads. On test was the entry-level Sorento GT-Line Hybrid front-wheel drive, which sells for $66,750 ($72,566, driveaway). Like all Kias the vehicle is covered by the manufacturer’s seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with roadside assistance.
Styling While retaining much of the Sorento family physical features, the Hybrid has evolved with a new interpretation of the trademark ‘tiger nose’ grille. It’s now wider, wrapping around the integrated LED headlights on each side. This assertive nose is complemented by a wider lower air intake, incorporating wing-shaped air curtains to channel air around the vehicle.
Interior Quilted Nappa leather appointed seats (front heated and ventilated) set the theme for a cabin of quality materials and craftsmanship. Three-stage climate control air-conditioning means comfort all round for occupants, while rear window retractable blinds help keep the heat at bay and offer privacy for occupants. Take time out to choose one of the 64 colours that bathes the cabin in ambient light, pick something from the Sounds of Nature soundscape, or just switch off entirely with the quiet of the passenger talk in-car intercom. Access to the third row of seats is made relatively easy by dropping the 60:40 second-row seatbacks with a handle on the side of the base and sliding the seat forward.
The Kia Sorento Hybrid model can be distinguished with reworked front end and unique designer alloy wheels. (Pictures: Supplied)
Infotainment Customising is the name of the game with a 10.25-inch full-colour touchscreen atop the centre console, plus a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster directly in front of the driver. A colour head-up display, includes speedo and speed limits on the windscreen. The touchscreen comes up with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity, satellite navigation details, including a sharp map display, and access to the 12-speaker Bose audio.
Engines / transmissions The Sorento Hybrid is powered by Kia’s 132 kW / 265 Nm four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine combined with a 44 kW / 264 Nm electric motor, charging a 1kWh lithium-ion battery situated under the boot floor. Power is put to ground via a six-speed torque converter automatic transmission, operated by a large knob on the centre console, and front-wheel drive.
Safety The Sorento gained a five-star safety rating in 2020 and includes autonomous emergency braking with vehicle, pedestrian and cyclist detection, junction assist, lane-keep assist, lane follow assist (centring), blind-spot assist, rear cross-traffic alert, parking collision 20 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023
avoidance, adaptive cruise control with stop and / go, front and rear parking sensors, driver attention alert, multi-collision braking and safe exit assist As well as 360-degree view of the vehicle when parking and blind-spot assist, on activation of a turn indicator, the wide-angle surround view monitor displays live footage of other vehicles in blind spots on the instrument cluster. It also helps wheels keep their distance from scuffing the sidewalk. Passive safety is taken care of with seven airbags, including front-centre side.
Driving The Kia Sorento Hybrid has slipped quietly (literally) into Australia, bringing a new purpose to the Sorento family, thanks to a sophisticated powertrain and some of Kia’s most advanced technology. Setting off is under the auspices of the electric motor alone producing maximum torque on tap instantly. The petrol engine joins in tandem only when needed for added acceleration or under load. These switches back and forth are so smooth as to undetectable to the driver. Indeed, the only indication that the car is acting strictly as an electric vehicle is by the letters EV displayed on the instrument panel. It is not possible to control these actions
manually; they are automatic powertrain decisions. Drive modes, such as ECO, Normal, Sport and Smart can be dialled up by means of a centre-console knob. I found Smart worked well for me as a family cruiser. Kia claims a combined urban / highway petrol consumption of 5.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The test vehicle recorded 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres in a mix of mainly town and some country driving. Anxiety about how far the Sorento hybrid will go without flattening the powertrain battery is absent as the engine and regenerative braking do the charging automatically. By activating the turn signal, the wide-angle surround view monitors display live footage of other vehicles in blind spots on the instrument cluster.
Summary With hybrid orders reportedly banked up to the end of next year, the Kia Sorento Hybrid GT-Line front-wheel drive states a compelling case for being one of the best large seven-seat sports utility family cruisers around. Step up to the all-wheel drive model for access to Terrain Select to help take care of tricky conditions off road in sand, mud, snow etc.
AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Sorento GT-Line V6 FWD: $62,070 ($65,990 driveaway) Sorento GT-Line Diesel AWD: $65,070 ($68,990) Sorento GT-Line Hybrid FWD: $66,750 ($72,566) Sorento GT-Line Hybrid AWD: $69,750 ($76,409) Sorento GT-Line Plug-in Hybrid: $80,330 ($88,381) SPECIFICATIONS Kia Sorento GT-Line Hybrid 1.6L turbocharged, 4-cylinder petrol engine / electric
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Kia dealer for drive-away prices.
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Western Jets’ new-look squad is full of talent The Western Jets might have a different squad, but the Coates Talent League squad is still full of talent. Coming off a premiership last season, the Jets have four players drafted and another picked up before as a pre-draft selection. Also with a new coach in Hayley Gossow, things are different down at the Jets this season. “It’s a very different squad,” she said. “We were lucky enough to get a couple of kids drafted last year. “We had a fairly large contingent of top agers, so we have a different squad. “All of the kids are developing after an extra year in the program. I think we still have a pretty strong side.” Gossow said they still had more top agers, but there was a fairly even spread across the ages. She said the likes of Grieves and Kiera Whiley had been thrown different challenges
which was really exciting. Sacha Nelson , who is a top ager, gets her first chance at the Jets, while a couple of players like Brodie and Court who were in the program last season will get more opportunities. The Jets had a bye at the weekend. It came after they had a loss in their opening match of the season against the Tasmania Devils. After having a bye the first two rounds, the Jets started the season on the road against the Devils. The Jets led by one point at quarter time, before the Devils kicked the only two goals of the second quarter to lead by 10 points at the main break. The Devils were able to increase their lead in the third quarter with three goals to one. The Jets showed some fight in the final term, kicking two goals to one, but still fell short. The Devils won 8.5 (53)-5.7 (37).
Jets coach Hayley Gossow said there wasn’t much between the two sides. “We were happy to get a proper game under our belt,” she said. “It was a great game of footy, but we didn’t come away with the win. We had the opportunity, but we felt like Tassie took their opportunities and we couldn’t get the forward connections in to the forward 50. “We will go away and work on that. Tamara Henry was the only multiple goal kicker for the Jets. Sierra Grieves got plenty of the ball for the Jets with 32 possessions and was named the Jets best. Ella Tyson, Jade Cilia and Hannah Brodie were among the other standouts. Gossow said heading to Tasmania was really good for the group, as it helps the group grow and bond together. Tara Murray
Sierra Grieves. (Joe MastroiannI) 268325_10
Sports shorts Nike F.C Cup The next round of the Nike F.C Cup knockout competition gets underway this week. Westgate will face National Premier League side South Melbourne on Tuesday, while Spring Hills is on the road against the Casey Comets on Wednesday. The following week, Caroline Spring George Cross will face Essendon Royals, while defending champion Calder United faces Southern United.
NBL1 Keilor Thunder has announced the signing of Juna Umezawa for the National Basketball League 1 South season. Umezawa, a Japanese national, comes to the Thunder with a wide range of experience at international and local level. Umezawa is currently playing in the Japanese division 1 league and had represented Japan at under-17, under-18, under-19 and senior level. The Thunder lost their first game of the season to the Knox Raiders, 81-60. Jaz Salon top scored with 13 points off the bench. The Thunder had the weekend off due to Easter.
AFLW It will be a different looking Keilor this season. (Joe Mastroianni) 296105_16
Blues look to the future By Tara Murray It’s a changing of the guard for Keilor in the Essendon District Football League premier division. Having had a consistent group of stars in recent times, which helped the club win two premierships, many of those faces have moved on. Now the Blues are starting to look to the future. Blues coach Mick McGuane said it was an exciting time for the club. “We’ll be a lot younger side this season,” he said. “There will be a lot of opportunities. “You can’t question the integrity of the likes of [Dean] Galea,[Jamie] Papalia, [David] Isbister, [David] Gourdis, [Jesse] Wallin and further back [Andrew] Browne and [Dylan] Joyce. “They all went about their footy the right way and are premiership players. It’s changing of the guard as they couldn’t go on forever. “They’re playing at lesser levels or in some cases have retired.”
The Blues midfield on paper remains one of the strongest in the competition on paper. Nick O’Kearney will be joined in the middle by Brett Stillman, who returns from injury and Kane Barbuto, whose work commitments now allow him to play. Former AFL player Corey Ellis, has committed to the club full time, having made his senior debut last season. Damian Cavka, who played in Keilor Park’s division 2 premiership, returns to his junior club. “We’ll look to those guys to lead the way,” McGuane said. “We need to have some depth in the middle and not have two or three overstaying their welcome. “We have some pretty good numbers and we’ll see some young guys through there. “Some of the older statesmen will play a few different roles which is exciting for us.” Joel Sadler and James Bailey are two players that McGuane said they expected to step up this season. While the Blues midfield is full of familiar
faces, the forward line will have a new look. Matthew Clark, who won the league goal kicking last year, will be a key target up there. But other players like Galea, Papalia and Stevenson are no longer there. McGuane said they would have a different dynamic and it would be a bit different early in the season and see how it goes. Having missed finals just once since 2014, the Blues have been one of the top sides for a number of years. McGuane said they were unsure how the season would play out this year. “We’ll see how it goes,” he said. “We have no idea what will happen. “We play each week to win, this year will be no different.” The Blues were set to kick off the season on Good Friday, in its annual match against Strathmore, which was after deadline. McGuane said before the match that they were keen to get into the season. In other Good Friday matches, Hillside was set to host Keilor Park, while Craigieburn and Roxburgh Park face off.
No Western Jets players were selected in the AFLW supplementary draft last week. Twenty five players were picked in the draft, with Geelong selecting Erin Hoare with pick one. Hoare had previously played for the Cats and Melbourne before focusing on her career outside football and having two children.
VAFA PEGS starts its Victorian Amateur Football Association season on Saturday. Last season’s division 1 premiers have been promoted to the premier C competition. PEGS will be at home in round one, taking on Mazenod OC.
Weekend sport Due to the Easter early deadline, all weekend sport is not covered in the paper. For the results from Essendon District and Western Region football leagues, and the National Premier League competitions, head to www. starweekly.com.au FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly Tuesday, 11 April, 2023 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY 21
Falcons overcome slow start to claim solid win City West Falcons overcame a sloppy start to get a good win against the North East Blaze in the Victorian Netball League championship division. The Blaze entered the match undefeated, but proved no match for the Falcons, who put up a really strong defensive game in the 67-47 win. Falcons coach Marg Lind said they were pretty happy with the performance after they settled. “It was a good win,” she said. “We took a while to get going. We were sloppy in the first quarter and then hit our straps. “We had been making too many errors in the attack end, taking too many risks. We need to settle down a bit and be more disciplined with the feed. “They were massive risks we were taking under pressure, we should be consolidating at the start of the game.” The Falcons goalers shared the load around with Jane Cook shooting 26 goals, Uneeq
Palavi shot 25 and Maddy Gray 16 goals. Lind kept a pretty solid midcourt combination throughout the match, with them settling after the first quarter. She again made changes at both ends, to mix and match with Blaze. Defenders Zoe Davies and Sienna Allen were the standouts “Zoe was seeing them like watermelons,” she said. “She had like 20 intercepts and played out of her skin. “As a team we normally aim for 16, so we don’t know what was going on. “Sienna was playing her former club. It can go one of two ways and it went the right way for us. She’s starting to show some good signs of improvement.” The win moves the Falcons up to second spot at the Easter break. Lind said it was a bit of a mental relief being in the top four at this point of the season. “Much better than last year,” she said. “It
shows our match play preparation was better.” The Falcons’ under-19s remain undefeated with a come from behind win, with the Blaze also entering the match undefeated. The division 1 side came back 14 goals down to one goal in the final minute, before losing by two goals. Lind said the group was still finding their feet. The competition now doesn’t return to April 21 due to Easter and the under-17 and under-19 national championships. Several Falcons players will be in action during those championships. Mikaela Minns, Charli Nicol, Teal Hocking and Charlotte Sexton are all in the under-19 team, while Mackenzie O’Dwyer and Elisa Butterworth-Gonebale are in the under-17 team, Lind said most of those girls had come through the pathway at the Altona association which was positive for what the program was doing.
Zoe Davies was a standout on Wednesday night. (Robbab Photography)
Western Suburbs taking it up to rivals
Julia Sardo. (GAZiPhoto/Western United)
Sardo excited for finals By Tara Murray Western United was seen as the underdog heading into the system and it will take that mentality into the A-League Women’s finals. United stunned most with their first season, sitting on top of the ladder for most of the season. While Sydney claimed the premier’s plate, United did enough to seal second spot and a second chance come finals. Julia Sardo, who has played with both Melbourne City and Perth Glory previously, said it was pretty special for the group. “It’s so exciting, especially in our first season,” she said. “It’s pretty exciting for everyone and we want to keep it going into the finals. Everyone is really pumped and it’s extra special being the first team and the first season.” Sardo said while the group was disappointed not to claim the premiers plate after the season they had, they weren’t dwelling on it. She said they had still accomplished a lot this season that they could be proud of. 22 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023
“We were the underdogs at the start,” she said. “No one expected us to be where we are. “On top for most of the year … We’re really proud of each other. “The focus is now on winning finals.” Sardo said there had been some challenges being a new side and gelling together. She said the group had come together really well. “It has been good,’ she said. There have been a lot of different people come in from all parts of the world. “It makes it really cool and there was that challenge to have everyone gel together. We all connected from the start. “Some of us have played with each other at Calder United, it has really helped the team connect.” That Calder connection is one that many of the players have spoken about. Sardo said she had always wanted another chance at the top level and being part of Western United made it more special. Sardo said that the connection between Western United and Calder United had helped everyone feel at home. She said the culture at Western United was
different from the other A-League clubs she’d been at. “There is a real togetherness vibe with the players, coaches and staff,” she said. “Everyone is really close.” Sardo is not a stranger to big matches, having been part of several Calder title winning sides, alongside many of her Western United teammates. She said this is the next level. “We’re definitely still underdogs,” she said. “We need to prepare on and off the field to be in the right mindset. “We will look after our bodies earlier in the week, mindful we have a big couple of weeks ahead.” United faces Sydney United on Sunday for a spot in the grand final. The loser will then play either Melbourne City or Melbourne Victory in the preliminary final. Sardo said she’s expecting a big game. “We won the first game against them and they won the second time,” she said of Sydney. “It’s anyone’s game and whoever is more prepared on the day and in the right mindset and attitude on the day, that is whoever wins.”
Western Suburbs are showing they won’t be easy beats in the FV state league 2 north-west season. After just avoiding relegation last season, the side has looked to strengthen their side to be competitive at this level. Club media co-ordinator Sacha Pete said they were happy with how it was panning out so far. “Coach Harry Matkovic had put together a squad to be competitive at this level,” he said. “The first goal for us was to maintain a strong financial viability. President Charlie Iacovou and vice-president Chris Pantelidis have a fantastic network of business partners that come in and support the club. “We’ve now been able to amass a playing group in order to produce.” Pete said Matkovic, who is in his first season as coach at the club, had been successful coaching at this level, so he knows what is needed to be competitive at this level. He said they had added about a dozen players this season. “We have a deep squad to compete at this level,” he said. “Many of the players have played at a higher level, which will hold us in good stead for state league 2. “We’re happy with how we’re going so far and we know that the team will take time to gel.” Western Suburbs have a 2-1 record at the Easter break and even in the match they lost they were competitive. Pete said they had strong pre-season form against teams that play in higher grades, which gave them confidence for the season ahead. While they’ve started the season strong, Pete said they weren’t getting ahead of themselves. “The goal is to be competitive,” he said. “We have pedigree at a higher level having been relegated in 2016. This year we want to consolidate and have some good form. “The ambition long term is to go back to our roots and play at a higher level.” Western Suburbs face Hoppers Crossing this Saturday. Tara Murray
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