Star Weekly - Northern - 11th April 2023 by Star Weekly

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11 APRIL, 2023

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A passion for words Roxburgh Rise Primary School pupils participated in a series of writing workshops to compose and publish their own stories. As part of Ardoch’s Writer in Residence program, author Vikki Conley encouraged pupils to write about their passions in an innovative approach to engage children in literacy. Ms Conley said the program is aimed at inspiring young minds and reaching schools with diverse and vulnerable communities. “It’s about teaching students writing, editing and storytelling skills that they can use all the way through their schooling and into their working lives,” she said. “Their confidence grows and their writing comes alive as they learn new skills and realise that writing about things they love is a great starting point for a story idea. We talk about writing from the heart and how writing gives us a voice in this world.” A book launch celebrated the work of pupils, giving them a chance to sign their published and printed books that will sit on the shelves in the school library. Author Vikki Conley with year 5 students Junaina, Migalina and Alex. (Damjan Janevski) 326245_03

Freight hub a step closer By Hannah Hammoud The long-awaited Beveridge Intermodal Freight Terminal (BIFT) is one step closer after National Intermodal announced the acquisition of 1100 hectares of land required to build the terminal. The BIFT is planned as a major node for the Inland Rail Project which will enable double-stacked trains up to 1.8 kilometres long to move between ports in Geelong, Melbourne and Brisbane. In 2018 Beveridge was identified by the state government as a prime location for Victoria’s interstate freight hub.

The project is set to play a significant role in delivering efficiencies in the movement of freight and ease traffic congestion. National Intermodal said early planning is under way to support potential interstate rail services at Beveridge as soon as possible, with full terminal and precinct warehouse operations by 2028-29. The precinct will also include upgrades to key road corridors including the Camerons Lane-Hume Highway intersection. National Intermodal chief executive James Baulderstone said acquiring the land at Beveridge was an “important milestone in the development of Melbourne’s modern, efficient

intermodal terminals”. “The Beveridge terminal when operational will greatly enhance the resilience of our national supply chain,” he said. “We look forward to working closely with all stakeholders including the Mitchell Shire and Whittlesea councils to unlock job opportunities in future construction and operations for the growing communities in Melbourne’s north who will be integral to the delivery of this precinct.” Whittlesea council chair administrator Lydia Wilson said council had been advocating to both federal and state governments for funding to see this important project come

to fruition. “This is an exciting announcement for our community and provides certainty on the delivery of this much-anticipated project,” she said. “The BIFT is expected to deliver an enormous boost to local employment with some 20,000 jobs required for both construction and ongoing operations and it will contribute $3.5 billion to the economy each year. “We look forward to working with National Intermodal and our neighbouring councils to progress with this project so we can see the benefits to local communities and beyond as soon as possible.”

Autumn School Holiday Program

@ the Y Leisure City

11th - 21st April 2023 Enjoy swimming, sports clinics, bowling, cooking classes, disco and much more these school holidays.

Visit leisurecity.ymca.org.au or call 9401 2222 12599003-AA15-23

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Intimidation, suggestive jokes, exclusion... Gendered violence comes in many forms. All are OHS issues. All are unacceptable. WorkSafe Gendered Violence

Reducing workplace harm.

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Ideas for a healthy partnership By Hannah Hammoud The boards of both Northern Health and Kilmore District Health services have begun a project to explore ways to connect their healthcare communities. Both health services are looking for ways to ensure more sustainable and connected healthcare for the communities of Kilmore and the northern growth corridor, now and into the future. The announcement kicks off community engagement into how the partnership may be strengthened, with a potential proposal to

include unification. While the two health services are distinct, they already work closely together, sharing similar culture and values, staff and resources, and a multitude of services. Both organisations also face changing community profiles and an increasing demand for specialist services closer to home. Their intent is for an open and transparent engagement process over the next three months, involving staff, patients, stakeholders, and communities in the development of a shared service plan to ensure everyone has a

say about what a shared future could look like. It is expected the planning process will raise options that may strengthen existing partnerships, including exploring voluntary amalgamation. A merger can only take place if the boards are in agreement, community benefit is assured, and with approval from the health minister. Northern Health board chair Jennifer Williams said they will be going into this exercise as an equal partner with Kilmore District Health. “We have worked closely together for many

decades and share common challenges,” she said. “Both our health services also share a driving purpose of ensuring our communities have the best possible healthcare and wellbeing services whilst supporting and investing in our workforces. “As part of this process, we will examine how a unified service could provide improved access to clinical services closer to home. “We are acting now to make our health resources work better for everyone and I encourage community contribution throughout this process”. Details: www.betterconnectedcare.com.au.

Food bank launches Ramadan drive Volunteer-run organisation, Halal Food Bank Melbourne (HFB) ran a campaign this Ramadan to help raise $20,000 for those in need. The organisation operates out of its warehouse in Campbellfield, working purely off of donations to pack and provide halal food on a monthly basis. Vice chairperson Ahanee Rind has volunteered with the organisation for 10 years. She said the community effort from both volunteers and donors is what keeps the wheels at HFB turning. “It’s a common misconception that there aren’t people in need in Australia,” she said. “From my time volunteering with HFB, I’ve seen the scale of need in our community. “The majority of HFB recipients are recently arrived refugees and asylum seekers, single mothers, victims of family and domestic violence and people experiencing financial difficulty and/or food insecurity.” Ms Rind says that HFB relies heavily on community donations. Last Ramadan it as able to run a donation campaign to purchase a forklift for the warehouse. “This year we’re hoping to raise money to purchase food items for the next few months and to help us cover our operational costs,” she said. People can get involved with HFB in many ways, whether it be physically going out and purchasing food items, volunteering to attend a packing day, making a monetary donation or simply spreading the word to friends and family. Hannah Hammoud

Halal Food Bank Melbourne works out of its packing warehouse in Campbellfield. (Supplied)

Coulstock Street near St Peter’s Primary School in Epping. (Supplied)

School safety road upgrade Whittlesea council is taking advantage of the school holiday break to carry out safety upgrades outside St Peter’s Primary School in Epping. The works on Coulstock Street, between Howard Street and Davisson Street, will start on Wednesday, April 12 and are anticipated to continue until Monday, April 24. The project will construct a concrete shared path along the south side of Coulstock Street and upgrade the existing children’s crossing to a raised crossing. To complement these safety improvements, the project works will also install associated drainage and signage, as well as line-marking. There will be no changes to private vehicle crossings. These important works will cause some temporary disruption to traffic, but private property access and waste collection services will be maintained during the project’s duration. The project forms part of a larger plan to improve traffic management in the vicinity of St Peter’s Primary School. For more information, contact customer service on 9217 2170 and ask for project engineer Surendra Paudel.

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Whittlesea City Basketball Association proudly launches GE3 partnership project. (Supplied)

Nominations for the 2023 Corporal Cameron Baird VC MG Memorial Award are now open. The award honours Gladstone Park local and national hero, Corporal Cameron Baird, who was killed in action in 2013, and supports young people in Hume to pursue their dreams. The award provides up to $5000 for young Hume locals aged 12-25 who can put the funds toward personal and professional development in achieving their goals such as education costs and sports equipment. Nominations close Sunday, April 23. Details: https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/ Your-Council/Grants-awards-and-funds/ The-Corporal-Cameron-Baird-VC-MGMemorial-Award

EDITORIAL

Blocking stereotypes

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A new project partnership aimed at tackling gender-based stereotypes in basketball has launched in Whittlesea. The GE3 partnership project is a collaboration between Whittlesea council, DPV Health and Whittlesea Basketball Association to create an equal, safe and healthy sporting environment. GE3 will give coaches and players from the basketball association the chance to participate in a workshop series to promote positive gender relations, attitudes, and behaviours. Whittlesea council administrator Peita Duncan said GE3 was already attracting significant interest. “We know community sports clubs give people of all backgrounds and ages a chance to share in a sense of belonging,” Ms Duncan said. “The behaviours modelled by coaches and other role models in these clubs have a

profound impact on the values and attitudes of young people and can be just as influential as parents and teachers.” The GE3 secured $128,500 in funding from the state government through a highly sought-after grant program that leverages community sport to prevent gender-based violence. Whittlesea Basketball Association general manager Jason Kelly is excited to be among some of the top sporting associations in Australia delivering a program of this nature. “…We will be providing opportunities for players, staff, coaches, and committee members to level-up their knowledge, abilities, and skills in implementing change to support gender equity for everyone in our basketball community,” Mr Kelly said. Hannah Hammoud

Police arrest Thomastown man Police have arrested a man in relation to the death of a woman following a fatal collision in Thomastown on March 26. Emergency Services responded to a call to Mahoneys Road about 1.10am after an allegedly stolen Kia Cerato and a Mercedes SUV had collided. Police and ambulance crews commenced CPR on one of the occupants of the Cerato, a 19-year-old Mill Park woman, but she died at the scene. A 22-year-old Thomastown man was arrested at an address in Box Hill and assisted police with their inquiries.

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We’re building North East Link and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re continuing works on North East Link, making travelling around Melbourne and to the airport quicker and safer. Road disruptions: Closed lanes Greensborough Road, Macleod

7pm to 6am weeknights until May

Lanes closed at times

Bulleen Road, Bulleen

7pm to 6am Sunday to Friday until May

Lanes closed at times

Manningham Road, Bulleen

7pm to 6am Sunday to Friday until May

Lanes closed at times

Templestowe Road, Bulleen

7pm to 6am Sunday to Friday until May

Lanes closed at times

Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 4 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023

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Check before you travel at bigbuild.vic.gov.au

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Indigenous name for new centre By Hannah Hammoud A new community centre is set to be built in Donnybrook in the coming years, with a proposed name of an Indigenous plant linked to the Wurundjeri people. Whittlesea council is proposing to name the health and education hub the ‘Murnong Community Centre’. Murnong means ‘yam daisy’ in the Woi Wurrung language of the Wurundjeri people. The roots of Murnong plants were an important traditional food source for many Aboriginal people.

Last year, council invited residents to provide feedback on three proposed names for the facility, with Murnong Community Centre proving the most popular choice. The centre will include a kindergarten, maternal and child health services, library hub, community hall and kitchen and meeting rooms for hire. The community centre in Donnybrook is anticipated to open in 2025 and is planned to be built at 183 Olivine Boulevard. Whittlesea council administrator Christian Zahra said council had consulted closely

with the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation during the process. He said the name ‘Murnong’ aligns with the state government’s Naming Rules for Places in Victoria policy as well as council’s Naming Policy for Features. “Murnong is reflective of the Indigenous flora found in the landscape of Donnybrook and its surrounds, so it is an apt name for the new community centre,” Mr Zahra said. “I thank everyone who took part in last year’s public consultation period for their help in

coming up with a meaningful name with such strong ties to this area.” Residents are open to provide feedback on the name up until 5pm on Monday, May 1 before a submission is lodged with Geographic Names Victoria for official endorsement. Objections must state why the name does not comply with the principles listed in the Naming Rules for Places in Victoria policy. Feedback can be provided via the online website, email, phone or post. Details: https://engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/ donnybrookcentre

Milestone for GPAN Broadmeadows youth-led community group, Good People Act Now (GPAN), has marked 10 years of working to promote gender equality and prevent gender-based violence in Melbourne. GPAN strives to support young people and other community members to be active bystanders and leaders among their peers as advocates for gender equality. Gender equity co-ordinator Georgia Ransome says that across the project’s 10-year history their mission remains the same. “We hope to continue expanding our network of GPAN volunteers,” she said. “We also hope that other organisations across Victoria and Australia will set up similar networks to GPAN, expanding the reach and impact of respectful relationship programs for young people. “… We are most proud of all the young people who continue to volunteer for the project year after year.”

The grassroots project celebrated 10 years of its commitment to educating young people across Melbourne and shifting community attitudes, but Ms Ransome said that there is still work to do. “Unfortunately, 10 years on, we have not noticed a shift in the rates of family violence and gender-based violence in Hume or beyond,” she said. “Rates of violence continue to increase across the state. “We know that we are generations from noticing a meaningful change in these statistics. “This change will come from educating young people about gender equality and respectful relationships, and stopping the violence before it starts.” GPAN Volunteers, Rukaya Elmoustafa, Siyoda Jayawardene and Sumeya Yussuf. (Supplied)

What’s on

Lead positive change

Revitalising Peter Hopper Lake

The City of Whittlesea’s Community Leadership Program is all about learning skills that will help you make a difference in your community. This free program is designed for residents who want to lead community projects, establish personal and professional networks and learn more about local government.

The upgrade will help restore the water quality and ensure the lake can remain a place for the community and wildlife to enjoy for years to come. Work will begin in early 2024 and will take approximately 12 months to complete.

Scan the QR code to find out more and to register your interest or you can visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/leadingchange

Scan the QR code to find out more about the plan and share what aspects of the lake are important to you, or visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/peterhopperlake

Peter Hopper Lake is set for an upgrade.

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Applications for the program close 5pm Sunday 23 April.

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Day in Cycle of fear for women Anzac Craigieburn By Hannah Hammoud

A new study from Monash University has revealed that twice as many men ride bikes as women. The study found that women experience extra barriers and concerns about riding a bike, on top of those also reported by men, including a fear of falling off their bike and into motor vehicle traffic, concerns about their personal safety in unsafe environments, and being made to feel inadequate as a cyclist. Mara Ferraro is a member of the Whittlesea Bicycle Users Group (BUG) and in previous years has run Women’s Learn to Ride programs aimed at breaking down barriers to participation.

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I’m hoping for a generational change

’’

- Mara Ferraro “I wanted to get more women on bikes and share my joy of riding with others who may not feel so confident,” she said. Ms Ferarro said that unfortunately all cyclists, not just women, have a story of a car driver harassing them as they drive past. “I also believe that the more mothers, sisters, aunts, grandmothers and female partners that are riding will eventually impact on some of the negative attitudes that are directed at cyclists,” she said. “I’m hoping for a generational change.” The study highlighted that one of the main barriers to people getting on a bike, is a lack of supportive infrastructure that can protect them from motor vehicle traffic. Ms Ferraro said well planned cycling infrastructure, such as better connectivity

Whittlesea Bicycle Users Group member, Mara Ferarro. (Damjan Janevski) 325949_02

between trails and routes on cycling paths and greater separation between bike lanes and cars, would help to get more people active. “It’s great to see that when new roads are built or upgrades of existing train lines and roads happen that separated shared user paths are drawn into the design,” she said. “Bicycle user groups like the one I belong to

do a lot of work behind the scenes advocating for improved cycling infrastructure. “…There are lots of cycling groups out there catering to different ages and types of riding so I would encourage women to seek them out on social media. Or get a group of your own friends together to explore the paths in your own area.”

Craigieburn War Memorial and Remembrance Committee will host a series of commemorative services at Anzac Park on April 25. Local residents are invited to pay their respects to the Australian men and women who have served or are currently serving their country. The dawn service will commence at 6am at the Craigieburn Anzac Park, on the corner of Aitken Boulevard and Central Park Avenue. A second service will take place at 10am. The Craigieburn War Memorial and Remembrance Committee is expecting 2000 people to attend and have requested that people arrive 15 minutes before the services commence. Committee member David Manning has been recognised by Kalkallo MP Ros Spence for his peacekeeping service across the Western Sahara and East Timor. “It was an honour to be chosen to be included in the United Nations missions by the United States Government as well as my military and police superiors,” Mr Manning said. Each year Ms Spence runs a profile on local veterans who have served in the army. The annual tribute brochure includes a profile of a veteran with a biography of their service history. This year Mr Manning will feature in the brochure for the Anzac Day 2023 veteran profile.

Some people ‘retire’ others choose life. Apartments now selling! We’re creating a new retirement community in Bundoora for people who love life. Callisto Place is for go-getters who love the outdoors and being amongst it all. Shops and eateries are an easy walk away and we’re surrounded by parklands and green spaces. Why ‘retire’ when you can choose to live here?

Artist Impression

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Keeping young employees safe By Hannah Hammoud Worksafe Victoria has opened its free and interactive WorkSafe 101 program across the state, helping prepare students in Victoria from years nine to 12 to enter the workforce safely. Throughout 2022, WorkSafe accepted 615 claims from workers aged 19 or younger, including 264 from casual or part-time workers and 185 from apprentices, including 207 claims relating to cuts and amputations, 112 related to fractures, 24 related to burns and 23 related to

mental injuries. In the northern metropolitan region, which includes the Hume and Whittlesea local government areas, WorkSafe accepted 72 injury claims from workers aged 15-19. The program has been designed in collaboration with teachers and career practitioners. The program includes e-learning modules, videos with examples from workplaces where young people are commonly employed and teacher-led activities that cover OH&S basics.

WorkSafe health and safety executive director Narelle Beer said research has shown young workers were more likely to accept unsafe work conditions and less likely to raise safety concerns or to report issues when they do occur, due to lack of knowledge, experience and awareness about occupational health and safety. “Many young people are starting a part-time job or moving from school to the workforce – we owe it to young workers to give them the knowledge to work safely and the confidence

to speak up when something doesn’t feel right,” she said. “Starting your first job is a huge milestone and a reason for young workers and their families to feel proud. “Sadly, too many young workers soon find that celebration turns to tragedy. “… We hope that this will help empower students with the skills to be able to say ’that doesn’t look right’ and to query what’s actually going on in the workplace.” Details: www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/worksafe101-high-schools

Team blood donation To mark the third anniversary of his stroke, James Kirkwood gathered 18 of his friends and family at the Bundoora Blood Centre to roll up their sleeves for a group donation. James was 20-years-old when he suffered a stroke during brain surgery in 2020. His mother Cheryl Taylor said that without the work of Lifeblood, James would not have survived. “Without those blood and plasma products, James would have died. There is absolutely no doubt whatsoever that he would have died,” she said. James’ mission now is to raise awareness of the importance of blood donation to help save other lives. Lifeblood allows for people to donate as a team, with James’ group donating under the name ‘Team B Positive’. All up their donation has already saved up to 36 lives, a contribution that James said he is extremely proud of. Cheryl said teams are a fun way for people

to get involved and help save lives. James welcomes anyone to book an appointment with Lifeblood and donate blood under his group name, ‘Team B Positive’. “James thought of that name and that’s just him and his attitude. It’s his whole being, he’s just so positive,” Cheryl said. Hannah Hammoud

James Kirkwood is on a mission to raise awareness of the importance of blood donation. (Supplied)

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8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023

BUSINESS IN FOCUS

Advertising feature

Kids can take part in Build A Bear workshops during the first week of the school holidays. Inset: Mernda Town Centre is your new local shopping centre. (Pictures: Supplied)

School holiday fun at the new Mernda Town Centre School holidays are fun at the new Mernda Town Centre. In the first week of school holidays the centre is hosting free Build A Bear activities, from Tuesday April 11– Saturday, April 15. Children will be able to participate in the Build A Bear heart ceremony, birth certificate and receive their free furry friend to take home.

Book via the link in the Star Weekly advertisement this week or follow @ Merndatowncentre on Facebook. In the second week there will be free face painting and balloon twisting activities between 11am and 2pm, on April 18-22. Be sure to bring the kids along and enjoy the school holiday activities on offer. Your new local, Mernda Town Centre,

with a state-of-the-art Woolworths store, The Reject Shop, Marketplace Fresh, The Groove Train, Zambrero’s, The Cheesecake Shop, and a further 25 specialty stores. Mernda Town Centre is your new local shopping centre. A wide array of fast food and dine in outlets, combined with fresh food, beauty, services, variety, health, and wellbeing in a contemporary new shopping mall.

With easy access from both Bridge Inn Road and Plenty Road plenty of undercover parking and superior convenience facilities, the centre is open seven days a week. Mernda Town Centre is at 180 Riverdale Boulevard, Mernda. Details: www.merndatowncentre.au or search @Mernda Town Centre on Facebook.

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Whittlesea’s Citizen of the Year By Hannah Hammoud CFA member and netball umpire Deborah Azzopardi has taken out Whittlesea’s Citizen of the Year award in recognition of her work in both roles spanning across more than 20 years. Ms Azzopardi said her daughter nominated her for the community award without her knowing. “The fact that I made the finalist was one thing, but the best part for me was that I was a winner anyway, because my daughter thought enough of me to nominate me,” she said. Born in the United Kingdom, Ms Azzopardi cites her 88-year-old mother, who still volunteers with St Vincent de Paul, as a big influence on her own volunteer work. “It was driven into us even as children when we came to Australia that we need to contribute back to the community in one way or another,” she said. She recalls a moment as a young girl back home where she watched a reporter interview firefighters who were battling a large blaze. “I remember watching that and thinking, one day I want to do what they’re doing and put back into the community.” Ms Azzopardi is coming up to 20 years service for her work at the CFA, she said that over the years one of the biggest changes she has seen in the CFA is in the mental health space. “The CFA is looking after the mental health of their members and their members’ families,” she said. “It took Black Saturday to implement these changes, as the CFA lost a lot of members due to mental health illness. We must never let this happen again. “I went on to be trained, and continue to train as a peer to members exposed to

Deborah Azzopardi crowned Whittlesea Citizen of the Year for 2022. (Damjan Janevski) 325575_01

traumatic events and offer mental health first aid.” Ms Azzopardi says that in both her roles as a CFA volunteer and netball umpire, it is the feeling of team spirit that she loves. “I enjoy being able to pass on my knowledge to new CFA recruits, helping others in their time of need, the mateship with other CFA members and the camaraderie at the brigade. Ms Azzopardi spent 30 years playing netball

across many of Melbourne’s northern venues before becoming a local netball umpire. She currently umpires at the YMCA in Epping where she previously trained and coached their junior netball team. “Netball also encompasses the camaraderie with other umpires, helping other players to develop into the best netballer they can be, and also the social side is awesome.” Ms Azzopardi is Epping CFA’s community

safety officer giving home fire safety advice for new residents moving into the area. She encourages everyone to get involved in their community as they may need to call on their neighbours for help one day. “We all have to live together, at the end of the day,” she said. “I’d love to think that everybody in the community retreat has a family that they can fall back on.”

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

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Laura Michell

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

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

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

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

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Airport bid for more power

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COMMUNITY

Crafty ladies scoop show prizes Residents from the Whittlesea Lodge Aged Care Facility have taken home a number of awards for their craft talent at the Whittlesea show. Whittlesea Lodge lifestyle co-ordinator Kim Foster said residents made unique crafts in their weekly craft lessons to submit to the Whittlesea show and were thrilled by their big achievement. “The residents didn’t enter the show to win, they entered the show for their own satisfaction and to show the community their abilities,” she said.

‘‘

We wanted to show the local community that we have a very talented and committed craft group

’’

- Kim Foster Residents at the Whittlesea Lodge join in on craft lessons once a week. Ms Foster said that for many of them, the craft group is an important social outlet. “… They like to talk about what they did in their younger days, their involvement in their local communities and overall they just like being in the company of each other,” she said. “Their favourite part of entering the show was to show the local community the crafts that they have achieved throughout the year.” Ms Foster said that the aged care facility was elated to hear the news that many residents were recognised with awards for their crafting skills. “Neither the residents or Whittlesea Lodge were expecting any awards. We wanted to show the local community that we have a very talented and committed craft group,” she said.

Whittlesea Lodge aged care residents with their creations. Pictured, top row: Robyn Kirby and Margaret Das. Bottom row: Cornelia Harkins, Jean Smith, Joyce Jonson, Nola Duncan and Carole Stott. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 327074

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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.

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 12 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023

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.”

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

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

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

10 11 12 13

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

G S 16

AGILE ALIAS ALIVE ALPHA AORTA ASIDE AWARE CASTE CATER CLAWS CLEAN CLIME DEPTH DRESS EERIE ENDOW ENROL ERASE FALSE FEINT FLORA

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

O N

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

N G S

R I M P A C E R D O R E

P R A

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

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

P E

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

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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

14 words: Excellent

hard

9-LETTER WORD

No. 128

6 7 $ 9 (

medium

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

8 2 6 3 2 9 6 4 1 7

3 4 1 6 1 4 7 6 2

V H E L DNUWA T OG S

8 4 3 1

WORDFIT

QUICK QUIZ

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are characters in which Shakespeare play?

Bad Behavior is a podcast hosted by Nikila Cranage and which other person?

Which of these languages has the most native speakers: English, Spanish or Hindi?

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?

What is the second-largest rainforest on Earth?

And in what year did the battle take place?

Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis (pictured) both star in which 2020 rom-com?

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

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 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 13

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Hopes for a pet ‘miracle’

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

260172_02 (Damjan Janevski)

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SIG N U P N O W !

MARISA DEBATT

ISTA WITH LEXINGT

50-metre pool a reality

Michaela Meade

By Michaela Meade

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

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

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

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Craft and Conversation Craigieburn library hosts a Wednesday weekly craft group from 1-3pm. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. ■ humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Mill Park Library carer group An opportunity to connect with carers in your area, get together and have a chat, share stories, maybe a little art/craft occasionally, and support one another over a cup of tea/coffee. The group meets every Wednesday, 1.30-3pm at Bluestone School House, 879 Plenty Road, South Morang, or every second Thursday, 1.30-3pm at Mill Park Library. ■ 0401 673 842

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

Free healthy lifestyle programs The photographer’s choice picture this week is of Diggers Rest Primary School ‘Great Glow Show’ featuring teacher Taryn Paterra with students Kodi and Skye. (Damjan Janevski) 325782_01

Tai Chi for health Get along to the Homestead Community and Learning Centre in Roxburgh Park for a lesson in tai chi on Mondays from 10.30-11.30am. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Tai-Chi-for-Health-317365848797

Adult education

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Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing

16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023

up on English skills. ■ 9309 8531

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

Homestead walking group Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals by taking part in the Homestead walking group. Meet at Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesday’s for a 30–45 minute walk. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/ Eventbrite/Homestead-WalkingGroup-493400784027

In partnership with Monash University, Whittlesea council is seeking children aged 7-13 who are above healthy weight to support them to improve their eating and activity habits. The program runs until Friday, July 7. ■ Brooke McDonald, 1300 822 953

Seed Saving This workshop will be held on Saturday, April 29, from 10-11.30am, at Whittlesea council fountain view room, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang. ■ sustainability.planning@whittlesea.vic. gov.au

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

MOTOR

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

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. Tuesday, 11 April, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 17

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Pacers have a strong family focus What is going on off court is just as important on court for the Whittlesea Pacers in Big V men’s division 2. The Pacers entered the Easter break 3-0 after a strong start to the season, while they’ve also been doing plenty of work off the court. Pacers coach Des Radoslovic said they were happy at this stage of the season. “Definitely that [undefeated] was my goal going into the season,” he said. “Seeing the fixture and the first three games before the break at easter wanted to be 3-0. “It sets up the rest of the season. We’ll continue to work hard and stay where we want to be. ‘There’s still so much improvement to go.’ Radoslovic said their most recent match against the Altona Gators was one that provided them plenty of insight into where they sit. While both teams weren’t at full strength,

the Pacers came away with a 94-67 win. “Both were undefeated teams,” Radoslovic said. “They will be one of our toughest rivals down the stretch of the season. “It was a big challenge and we beat them going into the break. A proper tough assignment.” The Pacers line up this season is made up of players with a Pacers connection, Six players returned from last season, while five players were promoted up from the youth league side. Just one player, who is from South Australia, hasn’t played for the Pacers before. Radoslovic said this was a big part of what him and assistant coach Paul Hughes wanted to do. “Paul and I have come back to the club,” he said. “We’ve gone back in with that Pacers feel. We want that consistency from the senior

team and through the club. “We’re going back to the Pacers family feel, big emphaise for both myself and Paul having coached the youth league team in the past. “We really want to highlight the pathway and the more home grown talent the better.” The Pacers had the week off due to Easter and will be back in action this week against Wallan. Radoslovic said they had big focuses for the rest of the season, on and off court. “We want to win the championship,” he said. “Most teams will say that going into every season. “That is the goal we have on the board. “Off the court we want the senior team focusing on way they are playing to set the standard for the rest of the club, “They’re doing a good job at this point.” Tara Murray

Magpies aim for finals By Tara Murray Roxburgh Park is keen to take that next step and play finals in the Essendon District Football League division 1. Having continued to show progress since they won the 2018 division 2 premiership and were promoted, coach Micheal Farrelly knows finals is the next step. “We have grown over the years and the next step is playing finals footy,” he said. “It’s a long journey, we are one and where we want to end up. It’s one week at a time and everyone needs to play their roles and results will take care of itself.” Farrelly said if the pre-season is anything to go by, they are tracking in the right direction. He said the group had been working really hard and there was a really strong culture and mate ship in the group. “There’s a lot to like at the moment,” he said. “They’re working really hard and this is the strongest I’ve seen the group in a long time.” The Magpies announced a number of new signings in the pre-season, meaning they’ve been part of pre-season since day one. Ahmed Hamdan, Aidan Clarke, Jamie Bellam, Theo Miliopouslos, Nathan Carroll, Cooper McPharlane, Robbie Barnard and Blake Woodsford are the signings that have been announced by the club. “They’ve all brought into what we’re doing,” Farrelly said. “They’ve helped reinvigorate the guys who were on the list last year, guys on the fringe who are competing for spots. “Competition is tough for spots. The comradery is high.” Farrelly said the normal suspects were leading on the way on the track, along with Andrew Capuana who is running elite times in the time trials, while Harley Short was having his best pre-season since 2018. Farrelly said the biggest thing for the group heading into the 2023 season was getting a bit more consistency throughout the season. Last season the Magpies started well, before fading late and missing out on finals. “We’ve fiddled with the game plan and modified a few things,” he said. “It will take a few rounds to become consistent with it. “There will be some hiccups early in the year as we try to find that consistency. Hopefully we’ll have more wins than losses and we can make finals.” Farrelly said off field the club was in the strongest position it had been for a number of years, with a lot of hard work put in the last three to four months. The Magpies were set to start their season on Good Friday against Craigieburn, after deadline. It’s the first time the two clubs have played on this day. Farrelly said before the match that they were 18 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 11 April, 2023

Roxburgh Park’s Ryan Micallef. (Joe Mastroianni) 292758_05

looking forward to the occasion. “The two clubs have come together for a good cause,” he said. “It’s a privilege to play on the day and we don’t take it lightly.”

It was one of three EDFL matches on Good Friday. In premier division, Keilor hosted Strathmore, while in division 1 Hillside hosted Keilor Park.

Blake Cuthbert. (Shawn Smits)

Lulu Beatty realises her AFLW dream Northern Knights co-captain Lulu Beatty has realised her AFLW dreams after being selected in the 2023 supplementary draft. Beatty, who missed out on being drafted last year, was taken at pick five by the Blues. She is no stranger to the Blues, having joined their Victorian Football League Women’s program this season. She impressed in her Carlton VFLW debut, before backing it up with a 22-disposal showing for the Knights in their 2023 opener. Beatty is highly regarded for her work rate and football IQ. Carlton head of football Brad Lloyd was pleased with the selection of Beatty, noting her ball skills and her courage around the contest stood out to the recruiting team. “Our recruiting team have loved what Lulu has brought to the table,” he said. “She has an appetite to improve, she wants to be the best she can be and she’s a smart footballer. “She can play at both ends of the ground which is really important in the modern game, and the way she came back from injury last year was a further example of her professionalism at still a young age. “She’s known to the program and the club having made her debut for our VFLW side in round one this year, which only consolidated our decision: we saw throughout pre-season that she’s a really good culture fit at the club.” Speaking to Star Weekly before last year’s draft, Beatty said a stress reaction in her foot, which meant she missed early, had helped her grow as a player. “Coming back from injury, it was sort of a growth process and working on getting back from there,” she said. “It was really good and I only played half the season, but I was able to get back and get all the places I wanted to go. “So I would say that it was successful and I grew this season as a player and as a leader, all positives.” She said at the time she had always wanted to be part of the AFLW. “Pretty much since I went to the first AFLW game, I saw myself being able to play out there and that’s what I wanted to do,” she said.

Pingers seeking to improve with better win rate Epping is hoping to take steps forward in the Northern Football League division 2 competition this season. After just two wins last season, the Pingers have had a really positive pre-season second year coaches Glen Lehner and Aaron Newport Lehner said focus for the group this season was to continue to improve. “We want to improve and get upward of five to seven games [wins],” he said. “We want to get somewhere in that mark and there’s some metrics that we want to improve on from last year. “We want to reduce a few things and if we could play finals that would be fantastic. “We’re a brand new group and we’re working on gelling together, playing together and hopefully getting that sustained success.” The Pingers have had 20 new players join the

Epping. (Joe Mastroianni) 280870_04

club during the pre-season, with more than half of them set to feature in their senior team. Lehner said there had been a mixture of players that they had targeted and then others who have come to the club.

“We were really targeted in our recruiting to help us with our transition,” he said. “It’s really positive we’ve picked up 20 new players across the pre-season. More than half are really good quality senior players which has been great.” Two of the players the Pingers targeted were Jackson and Ryan Bailey. The signing of Jackson helped the club land Andrew Denoon, who played with Jackson in Sydney. Denoon finished third in the Sydney AFL platinum division best and fairest award. Other inclusions, Ethan Gorski from Panton Hill, Luke Lirosi from West Preston Lakeside and Westmeadows duo Jordan Hollow and Clayton Campbell. Campbell has now got a job in Tasmania and is taking off in a couple of weeks.

Lehner said they had also looked to bolster the off field side of things as well. “Matthew Patti is our reserves coach,” he said. “He is ex-Epping and has been fantastic with the young boys. “Our 19s didn’t get up so their coach Luke De Vincentis has started looking after the wellbeing and the leadership group. “Anthony Stockwell is a mentor for me and Aaron. He has coached at VFL level and that experience knowledge is invaluable,” The Pingers were set to kick off their season on Good Friday against Thomastown for a second straight year. The match was after deadline. Lehner said before the match that they were hoping to get a big crowd there. Tara Murray

Prince Singh (right) with Shupinder Taggar and Rubal Singh-Dillion. (Supplied)

Singh claims comp medal

Matthew Vasilevski. (NWM Studios)

Bears on the up and up By Tara Murray Thomastown doesn’t just want to play finals in the Northern Football League division 2 this season, the Bears want to be matching it with the best week in, week out. New Bears coach Peter Bugden has had his playing group work hard in the off season as it tries to take the next step. “In my point of view, we have flatlined since we got into division 2,” he said. “We’ve finished fifth and just got in, or finished fourth and been competitive for quarters but not whole games. “My aim is to play finals, not just fill a spot in the finals. “In my view we have to be competitive for four quarters and beat the best teams.” A lot of work has been done to get the players stronger and fitter both mentally and physically in the off season. Bugden said the playing group had committed and were keen to have success.

It’s been a summer of change for the Bears with more than 50 people coming into the club as either players or coaches. Bugden said it was really exciting as they had implemented some strategies and changed up the game plan. “It’s been a big pre-season and nice to get into the real stuff,” he said. “It’s the first time in 12 years we’ve had under-19s which is a huge achievement for the club. “It’s been a really good pre-season, the numbers have gone through the roof. In the football department there have been 52 new people come in, as players and coaches. “It’s a pretty big turnaround in playing group numbers from last year.” The senior squad will be strengthened with some key additions joining the club in the off season. Ash Hood has joined the club from Fitzroy Stars, where he finished third in the club’s best and fairest last year.

Jude Georgievski, who is on the Northern Knights list, is also a national long jump champion. Thomas Wilson, another with an athlete background, who is returning to the sport, having played juniors at South Morang. Makka Zakkour has won a couple of premierships with West Preston Lakeside, Matt Morison, who was part of Bundoora’s reserves premiership last year, Mernda duo Josh Mazzarella and Anthony Bradford, and Bill Samie are the other key signings. Bugden said several of those players would make their debut for the club in round one. He said despite the changes they were expecting to start the season well and hopefully with a few wins early on. The Bears were set to start their season on Good Friday against Epping, which was after deadline. Speaking before the game, Bugden said it was a day they were looking forward to what should be a big day.

Bundoora’s Prince Singh now has a competition best and fairest medal to add to his premiership medal in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association. Singh proved to be one of the recruits of the season, helping the Bulls to their first first XI premiership in more than 20 years, as they won the Money Shield. At the association’s awards night, Singh was named the winner of the John Gleeson Medal for the best player in the Money Shield. He polled 15 votes to win the medal. Singh, who averaged 686 runs at an average of 62.36 throughout the season was also named wicketkeeper in the team of the year. His Bundoora teammates Rubal Singh-Dillon and Shupinder Taggar were also named in the team of the year. Bundoora United’s Joel Thompson was named captain of the team, while Bulldogs bowler Scott Barnett and Lalor Stars Joshua Nixon were also named in the team. In the Barclay Shield, Diamond Creek’s Dan Gilbert won a second straight and third overall, Ray Christesen Medal as the best player in the top grade. Epping’s Josh Henkel and Robert Tinsley were named in the team as reward for a strong season that helped the Pingers make a grand final. More than a third of the players in the Mash Shield team of the year were from Mill Park. Trent Groom, Adam McLaughlin, Mitch McAuley and Julian Marshall were all named in the team. Groom was the runaway winner in the Duckworth-Turner Medal for the best player in that competition. Tuesday, 11 April, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 19

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