Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 2nd May 2023

Closing the arts gap

Writers Victoria hosted a forum aimed at bridging the gap between mainstream arts and disability communities at Caroline Springs Library on Thursday, April 27.

The Writability Goes Local forum explored how language, writing and telling your own stories helps transform ways of thinking about the self, disability and community. Presenters at Writability Goes Local included writer, editor and poet Ruby Hillsmith, LGBTIQA+ disability rights activist, writer and educator Jax Brown, and queer, disabled writer and speaker Jessica Walton.

Writers Victoria Writability program manager Jessica Obersby said the forum provided a “lovely sense of community, with everybody able to be open and talk about disability, in a really safe space”.

“The audience was really engaged and there was a lot of participation, great discussion, and Ruby led some writing exercises… people were really keen to participate and share what they had written,” she said.

Writers Victoria will host a Writers Group in Melton for people with disability interested in building their writing skills for creativity and enjoyment. Scheduled to run for eight monthly sessions from May 12, the program will include workshops and author talks.

School kids going hungry

By Liam McNally

More than 1000 children in Melton may be going to school without food, according to a recent report by council.

A report to the April 24 council meeting stated that an estimated 3.2 per cent of the Melton population was experiencing food insecurity, according to 2017 data.

The report stated “it is likely that figure is now much greater” since health, educational and employment impacts of the pandemic,

rising cost of living, and economic downturn have increased hardship in Melton.

“This means that potentially more than 650 primary school students and 475 secondary school students may be experiencing food insecurity in their homes, which may result in their going to school without breakfast or lunch,” the report said.

The report also noted anecdotal reports of school aged children committing food theft at major shopping centres within the municipality and that theft is more likely to

happen in the hours before school, suggesting a possible link to issues of food insecurity for these young people.

The state government’s Foodbank School Breakfast Program currently supports 24 Melton schools to deliver school breakfast programs, At the meeting, council moved to write to local state MP’s to advocate for two more schools currently on the waitlist to be provided funding for the program.

Councillor Kathy Majdlik said she feels “very strongly that no child in Australia

should go to school hungry”.

“I hope that these letters can shed some light to our local MP’s that they can take that information and hopefully get some more funding for the schools that have missed out in our municipality,” she said.

Cr Sophie Ramsay said that her daughters are both school teachers “and they feed kids out of their own pockets”.

“I’m sure every teacher across the state would resort to that because their welfare is predominant.“

Writability Forum presenters Jax Brown and Jess Walton. (Damjan Janevski) 331060_01

Marsh Bacchus Marsh Information Centre 215 Main Street

• Bacchus Marsh The Village Shopping Centre Main Street

• Bacchus Marsh Laurels Education & Training 229 Main Street

• Bacchus Marsh Bellbrook Gardens Country Club 168 Underbank Boulevard

• Ballan Newsagency 133 Inglis Street

• Ballan IGA Plus Liquor - Ballan 135 Inglis Street

• Ballan Moorabool Shire - Ballan 15 Stead Street

• Brookfield Ingenia Gardens Village 23-35 Coburns Road

• Brookfield Lifestyle Brookfield 111-139 Coburns Road

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

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

• Darley Champions IGA Grey Street

• Darley Moorabool Shire 182 Halletts Way

• Darley Bacchus Marsh Gold Club Links Road

• Darley Vans Milk Bar 1 Sheldon Ave

• Diggers Rest Pharmacy 2 Farm Road

• Diggers Rest FoodWorks 22 Glitter Road

• Diggers Rest Post Office 76 Old Calder Highway

• Gordon Post Office 65 Main Street

• Harkness Foodworks 17 Claret Ash Boulevard

• Hillside Foodworks 595 Melton Highway

• Hillside United Petroleum Hillside 821-899 Melton Highway

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

• Kurunjang Kirkton Drive Milk Bar 203 Gisborne - Melton Road

• Kurunjang Village Store 51 Kurunjang Drive

• Maddingley Bacchus Marsh West Golf Club Bacchus Marsh-Ballan Road

Highway upgrade pledge

• Melton Milk Bar 44 Burleigh Road

• Melton Waves Leisure Centre 206 Coburns Road

• Melton TAB Corp Park 2 Ferris Road

• Melton OP Shop 4/86 High Street

• Melton Shire Council Offices 232 High Street

• Melton Australia PostOffice 340 High Street

• Melton Sweeney Real Estate 266 High Street

• Melton Advance Stationers 283 High Street

• Melton Raine and Horne Real Estate 289 High Street

• Melton Lotto 293 High Street

• Melton Harcourts Real Estate 306 High Street

• Melton Professionals Real Estate 317 High Street

• Melton Freddy’s Fruit & Veg 393 High Street

• Melton Toyota 143-147 High Street

• Melton YPA Real Estate 272-274 High Street

• Melton Amcal Pharmacy 308-312 High Street

• Morgans Supa IGA 335-345 High Street

• Melton MGS Melton 358 High Street

• Melton Pharmacy Superstore 383-385 High Street

• Melton NQR Melton 405-407 High Street

• Melton FoodWorks Shop 1, 415-429 High Street

• Melton Woodgrove Shopping Centre 533-555 High Street

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

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

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

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

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

• Melton Allan Mance Holden 1 Holland Drive

• Melton Library 31 McKenzie Street

• Melton Country Club 28-30 Reserve Road

• Melton Indoor Sports Centre 65 Reserve Road

• Melton Coles 11 Station Street (Melton Station Square)

• Melton Lee Merchants 29 Wallace Square

• Melton South Woolworths Supermarket Opalia 179-253 Exford Road

• Melton South Yes Yes Indian Supermarket 201 Exford Road

• Melton South Hume Milk Bar 55 Hume Avenue

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

• Melton South MGS Melton 8B Station Road

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

• Melton South Station Square Shopping Centre 25 Station Road

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

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

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

• Myriong Plough Inn Hotel/Motel 17 Main Street

• Rockbank Newsagency 1157 Leakes Road

• Taylors Hill Gilson College 450 Taylors Road

• Toolern

Melton wants tougher hoon laws

By Liam McNally

Melton council is seeking to put a stop to hooning within the municipality by introducing a new law targeting hoon events.

At a meeting on Monday, April 24 council accepted a report into options for new anti-hoon laws, and will consider creating a new local law in 2025 when the current general local law finishes.

Council city delivery director Neil Whiteside said the current road safety act

requires or enables police to take action against hoon behaviour but only can address the hoon behaviour of the particular driver, it does not enable the police to deal with matters that relate to hooning events.

“In relation to hooning events really the only way to deal with that currently is through the provision of a separate local law … maybe the state should consider the hoon events issue as a part of the state legislation rather than each individual council having to consider that,” he said.

The exact nature of the law is not yet decided, but nearby Brimbank council was the first council to introduce local laws in relation to hoon driving in 2018, making it an offence to participate in, encourage, or attend a hoon event without lawful excuse, and for a driver of a motor vehicle to stop or park in close proximity to a hoon event without lawful excuse.

Hume council currently also has a proposed law which means people attending a hoon event or parked within 200 metres of a hoon

The west’s other big build goes up

Construction can be a frustrating business, just ask former Wyndham councillor and property developer, Intaj Khan.

“We encountered a lot of rocks and we’ve had to change the plans” Mr Khan said. “We’ve changed our outdoor swimming plan and we’ve dropped the helipad and we’ve also reduced from 16 to 15 rooms and made one of the rooms a hair salon and wellbeing centre.”

Mr Khan isn’t talking about a luxury hotel or apartment complex.

This is his home.

Situated near the corner of Mt Derrimut Road and Doherty’s Road in Tarneit, it is set to be the largest mansion in Victoria when complete.

After years of planning delays, construction beganinMaylastyearandMrKhanestimated it’ll be May next year before it’s finished.

Two years, $10 million, 20 builders and a floor area of 311 squares; these are dizzying numbers and Mr Khan anticipates more to come.

“A mansion that is close to our design was sold for $42 million on the Gold Coast three weeks ago ” Mr Khan said of the largest price ever paid for a mansion in Australia, one he thinks his property will surpass.

“Our mansion is more modern and way bigger than that one.”

Tarneit isn’t the Gold Coast, but Mr Khan said this was why he wanted to build such a large home there.

“It will uplift the entire area’s profile and shows the west is on the move,” Mr Khan said. “I would say (Tarneit) is a suburb where people can see how people work hard can achieve their dreams.”

Regardless of the size, the son of Indian migrants knows that in building his own home, he has certainly achieved his. “As a migrant it’s the Australian dream,” he said.

While a proud Australian, Mr Khan is also paying homage to his Indian heritage, using marble imported from the same quarry that supplied the Taj Mahal.

But such extravagance is in stark contrast to many others whose dreams of home

WIN

event could be fined.

Melton councillors also decided they would write to Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne to advocate for a state level anti-hooning law to make consequences for hooning events even across the state.

Melton councillor Sophie Ramsay said she can’t commend [council officers] enough for the power of work that they’ve done in putting this [report] together.

The state government was contacted for comment.

Build skills to work in Melton

Melton council’s employment training programs are open for enrolments for term two, helping locals build the skills they need to gain employment and get ahead at work.

The program helps residents get the skills and certifications they need to get jobs in hospitality, construction labouring and more as well as a variety of free and low-cost opportunities specifically for young people aged 12 to 25 to upskill and strengthen their employability.

Councilalsorunscommunitytraining sessions for people of all ages, with workshops on grant writing, public speaking, website design and business development on throughout the year.

In partnership with Jobs Victoria, specialistJobAdvocatesstaffareavailable two days a week in Council libraries.

Job Advocates offer free initial one-on-one support for people who need help finding work and help navigate the widerangeofemploymentandeducation services that are available to ensure everyone is referred to the right services that cater to their needs.

MeltonmayorLaraCarlisaidwithfree or low-cost courses in the responsible service of alcohol, food safety, first aid, the construction safety white card, barista coffee making and defensive driving, council is “making sure young people have the skills and confidence to land that critical first job”.

increasingly unachievable.

Mr Khan is unrepentant and argues that quicker and more efficient planning approvals will allow more homes to be built.

He also encouraged others to follow him by

“People just have to plan and work smarter and pay attention to savings and don’t be afraid to buy properties in Tarneit and the west.”

“Jobmakers are telling us there’s big worker shortages in hospitality, supply chains and logistics, and construction and we are doing our part to make sure jobseekers are skilled up and matched with good local jobs,” she said.

Details:melton.vic.gov.au/employment or melton.vic.gov.au/jobadvocate

WIN TICKETS to the 46th Historic Winton Races...

Australia’s longest-running and most popular all-historic motorsport event, Historic Winton, will be held on 27th and 28th May 2023 at Winton Motor Raceway, near Benalla. Spectators will see more than 40 historic car, motorcycle and sidecar races and the traditional Sunday Parade Lap of selected display vehicles.

The 46th Historic Winton invites spectators to bring their historic cars, bikes, trucks, buses, caravans and other vehicles for a massive car park display.

Organiser, Austin 7 Club President, Len Kerwood said that visitors will be amazed by the impressive array of vehicles celebrating anniversaries as old as 120 years, alongside the two-days of historic motorsport action that people travel far and wide to see.

Tickets are now available online from ticketebo.com.au/historicwinton

Cade Lucas

Intaj Khan has started construction of his mansion in Tarneit, which he says is the largest in the state. It has been in the planning since 2016. (Damjan Janevski) 330591_02

Wehave20weekend doublepassesupforgrabs!

Mental health concern for men

By Liam McNally

Melton council is hoping to expand mental health services for young men in the municipality following a new report accepted at a meeting on Monday, April 24.

Thereportoutlinedkeyhealthandwellbeing needs for younger men aged 18 to 40 and found a number of areas of concern for men in Australia, including poor mental health, men visiting the doctor less often than women, and male life expectancy which is five years shorter than women, and is further decreased for certain male population groups, such as men

who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, migrants, people with disabilities and those from LGBTI communities.

The report stated that nearly half of residents in the City of Melton are between the age of 18-49, and that health and wellbeing data of young males shows that more needs to be done in the provision of programs and services to address health and wellbeing barriers.

Several programs specifically for men availableintheCityofMeltonincludingMen’s Sheds, and the Sons of the West (SOTW) Program delivered in partnership with the Western Bulldog’s Community Foundation

Putting their hands up

Smart Body and Put Your Hand Up Australia teamed up to deliver a free mental health and wellbeingsessionatMeltonWillowsSupported Living Centre on Thursday, April 28.

Smart Body is an organisation that assists with a broad range of mental and physical training from sports professionals to NDIS participants which chief executive Barry O’Keefe was inspired to launch after a “transformative” experience volunteering with Reclink Australia.

Put Your Hand Up Australia is a program recently founded by former AFL player Mark Eustice that draws on lived experiences to give free talks to start conversations around mental health and addiction.

At the Thursday session Mr O’Keefe, Mr Eustice, and Gracie the puppy joined Willows residents with footy colours donned and meat-pies in hand to hear a presentation before a question and answer, photo sessions, a raffle

draw, and after refreshments the group got active with footy activities and a boxing class.

Attendees were also assisted in setting up ongoing courses around substance abuse, rehabilitation and trauma recovery.

Mr Eustice said it was “good just being there and giving support … I was really quite humbled to get to go along.”

“I want to help people out there with no one to talk to, I’m really passionate about it,” he said.

Mr O’Keefe said it was “fantastic” seeing the faces of participants “light up” when an AFL star entered the room.

“They just loved to have a footballer along and have a talk with them about the good times and the bad times,” he said.

“I get a thrill out of helping people and seeing their improvement … It’s fulfilling getting to help disadvantaged people that really need it,” he said.

(WBCF), however the report found that participation of males between 18-40 in programs is minimal.

Councillor Sophie Ramsay said men “need the support that’s out there … and I can only see we strengthen our resolve even further”.

Onemethodofaddressingtheissuesuggested by the report is the expansion of the already successful SOTW program by altering its delivery to attract more young men – changing times to allow for greater participation of men of working age, address the needs of younger men in education sessions, and having further discussions with the WBCF to determine if a

dedicated stream targeting men aged 18-40 would be viable as part of its program.

WBCF community health and wellbeing manager Alyce Vella said the organisation “values” Melton councils expertise in “understanding on what local communities want and need” and are open to “continuing to explore innovative ways to reach new and emerging communities in Melton”.

“We want to ensure our programs are as accessible and available as possible to communities that need them most. It’s important to have a finger on the pulse of what local communities want and need,” she said.

Still growing after 20 years

In 2023 The Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden (FMBG) is celebrating its 20th anniversary, and is inviting more community members to join ahead of National Volunteer Week which begins on May 15.

The Melton Botanic Garden site was set aside by council in 2003. At the time it was a raw paddock with Ryans Creek and Toolern Creek forming two of the boundaries.

The garden has a dry climate theme and displays indigenous, native, and exotic plants.

The management, development and maintenance of the garden has been undertaken by volunteer teams and over the years membership has grown to more than 440 strong, with 80 active volunteers.

FMBG president John Bentley joined the group in 2004 when he saw a community notice in the local paper.

“I thought it was a fantastic opportunity for

Melton … I loved the concept and idea,” he said.

“Volunteering has been so uplifting for people, mental health, social connections, physical health … It has been a fantastic team of volunteers and people who have assisted the garden, 20 years have flown by.

“The garden has continued to grow and expandandwe’regettingveryclosetousingthe whole 27 hectares of the space.”

FMBG were recently sent letters from King Charles, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Hawke MP Sam Rae congratulating them for their efforts.

“It’s really uplifting to be recognised by those people … we see that as the highest recognition we can get,” Mr Bentley said.

People interested in becoming a member of the gardens should contact FMBG by email or phone.

FMBG volunteers. (Provided).

Barry O’Keefe, Gracie the puppy, Scott Jobson, Virginia Palmer and Mark Eustice. (Damjan Janevski) 329414_01.

Auslan boost a sign of the times

By Liam McNally

Melton council is considering introducing Auslan interpreters to all council-run events, a move which would mean its “leading the way for inclusivity among local governments”, a peak body representing the interests of Australians who are deaf or hard of hearing said.

At a council meeting on Monday, April 24, Melton mayor Lara Carli moved for council to investigate a report on the introduction of

Auslan interpreter services to support various events including large festivals and civic events, council meetings, and community engagements both in person and online.

“I think that this is something really important that we as a council should be doing especially when we speak about being inclusive to our whole community,” she said.

Deafness Forum Australia chief executive Steve Williamson said it is “fantastic” to see local governments taking the initiative in creating new forms of access for people whose

Recording parish life

In honour of the 150th anniversary of St Bernard’sChurchinBacchusMarshnextyear, a community group is seeking contributions for a book it is compiling on the parish’s history.

St Bernards Hopetoun Catholic Cemetery

Preservation Group look after the cemetery Bacchus Marsh’s original church sat on, and in it lie many of the pioneers who would have helped build the current building on Lerderderg Street in 1874.

To honour them and anyone who has contributed to parish life since, the preservation group are hoping to uncover photos, newspaper articles, written records and names from anyone involved with the parish throughout its history.

Preservation group chair Margaret Love said while the group is hoping to document accurate historical fact, they are also hoping to introduce colour to the stories and “put life to a name”.

“I’m looking at the ‘peopling’ of the parish,”

she said. “Buildings can be really grand … but it’s the people behind it that make it good or make it bad. It’s the people who built parish life and have passed on – that gift of parish community to the rest of us that’s important, and their efforts are worthy of being recorded.

“The way they operated, the people who contributed, the helping out in very real lifelike situations - right down today where we have members who provide Soul Food, or St Vincents, or the Senior Citizens group.”

St Bernards Hopetoun Catholic Cemetery preservation group are hoping to receive all contributions by September 30 this year, and are asking the community to reach out to them via email with “attention 150th book committee” in the subject.

Details: bacchusmarsh@cam.org.au

native language is Auslan.

“Having an Auslan interpreter at all council events is certainly not a common thing in Australia,” he said. “Profoundly deaf people who communicate in Auslan are a minority within a minority. Slightly more than 16,000 people use Auslan in the whole of the nation according to the Census, so they are easily overlooked and ignored by the community.

“Sign language is a critical prerequisite to the full realisation of human rights for deaf people. Early access to sign language and services in

sign language, including quality education availableinsignlanguage,isvitaltothegrowth and development of the individual.”

Councillor Kathy Majdlik said she was “thrilled” by the motion because disability and inclusion “are close to my heart”.

“It’s a no-brainer, just another step forward to making our community more inclusive,” she said. “I love being a trailblazer in local government … hopefully other councils will see what we’re doing to be more inclusive for our community and they’ll join.”

School building finally open

St Lawrence of Brindisi Catholic Primary School in Weir Views officially opened a new school building on Thursday, April 27.

The largest new catholic school in Victoria opened its doors to 191 pupils at the beginning of 2022, but the official launch of the school’s stage one building was delayed.

The stage one building consists of eight classrooms, an admin room, and a visual arts room centred around a collaborative learning space.

The classrooms have soundproof glass doors which can be opened to make one large learning space.

Thelaunchbeganwithawelcometocountry and smoking ceremony, followed by a liturgy.

Auxiliary Bishop Matin Ashe blessed the building, and helped Hawke MP Sam Rae, principal Bill Hill, and St Lawrence’s first enrolled pupil Sophia unveil a plaque and cut the ribbon to the building.

Melton mayor Lara Carli and other dignitaries from council, neighbouring schools, and the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) were also in attendance.

Mr Hill said the day celebrated a milestone as the school develops and grows into an “important part of the community for Weir Views”.

“We’re a wonderful school community with great parents and guardians, an incredible dedicated staff group, and our children are just fabulous,” he said.

Mr Hill said it’s a “massive honour and a privilege” to get to start a school from the “ground up”.

“It’s a challenge every day, but I love what I do … it has been a highlight of a 30 year career in Catholic education,” he said.

The Western Renewables Link is a proposed electricity transmission line that will carry renewable energy from western Victoria to homes and businesses across the state.

We’re currently hosting pop-up information stalls so you can ask questions and learn more about the project. All members of the community are welcome, bookings are not required.

Where When

Liam McNally

St Lawrence of Brindisi principal Bill Hill. (Damjan Janevski) 330095_03

Preservation group members Kath Connell, Bernice Clarke, Margaret Love, Carmel Shea and Marj Vallence. (Damjan Janevski) 331007_01

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Life-saving ASRC grant

Asylum seekers in the west will continue to receive vital support at the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) thanks to a $500,000 state government grant.

On Friday, April 21, Multicultural Affairs Minister Colin Brooks announced the one-off grant with the support of Footscray MP Katie Hall, Preston MP Nathan Lambert and Albert Park MP Nina Taylor. ThegrantwillallowfortheASRCtocontinue its support by providing essential services including delivering food bank support, as well as funding the many roles of frontline legal services, bicultural and social workers.

Mr Brooks said he is proud of the important work being done at the ASRC.

“We know there have been some tough times financially for so many organisations making things very challenging at the moment,” he said. “We know this money will be put to such good use.”

ASRC chief executive Kon Karapanagiotidis said the ongoing support from the state government has led them through challenging times.

“We are an organisation that relies on the kindness and the goodwill of a community, we are so honoured to have a state government that continues to stand for the marginalised refugees, and who understands their role is about looking after local Victorians,” he said.

“The people that walk through these doors are not asylum seekers, they are local Victorians and future Australian citizens, and you’re setting them up for a life where they can thrive and not simply survive.”

Founded in 2001, the ASRC is Australia’s largest human rights organisation providing support to over 7000 people.

Morethan80percentofthepeoplesupported by the ASRC are living with no form of income and rely solely on the ASRC.

Mr Karapanagiotidis said without the grant, the ASRC would not be able to continue operating.

“Wewouldnotbeabletokeephousingpeople, and be their supermarket, their pharmacy and the roof over their heads,” he said.

Briefs

Teddy Bear Picnic

To celebrate National Family Day Care Week, Melton council’s Family Day Care team will be bringing their teddies and hosting fun activities at the Melton Community Hall on May 3 from 10am to 11.30am. Bring your little ones along with their favourite teddy and some morning tea for a morning of fun. You can grab a coffee, meet educators and find out more about Family Day Care or starting your own business.

Have your say on the Melton Weir

A new strategy is set to be developed to guide the creation and improvement of parklands along the Melton Weir and Reservoir, and Melton council is inviting the community to have their say until May 14. Details: conversations.vic.gov.au/ meltonweirparklands

Inter-library loans

Melton City Libraries recommenced inter-library loans on Monday, May 1. Inter-library loans allow borrowers all over Victoria to access the widest possible range of materials from beyond the collections held at their local public library service. Details: melton.vic.gov.au/library

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Jennifer Pittorino

Asylum Seeker Resource Centre chief executive Kon Karapanagiotidis (second from right) celebrated the funding with parliamentary members. (Jennifer Pittorino) 330713_01

MY PLACE

Ballan artist, activist and PhD candidate Lauren Matthews tells Liam McNally about her work in the community and connection to Moorabool.

Tell us a bit about you and what you do?

I am working full time on my PhD, where I am exploring how artists who have experienced trauma can contribute to social change using textiles. As part of this, I create a range of works exploring my own experiences that I document through quilts and embroidery installations. I also create textile works that document the wild world ofFacebookmarketplace,whilehighlighting social issues. I run sit and stitch sessions.

I am active in the community, including the Lions Club of Quilters Victoria and I coordinate the Raising Rainbows initiative as part of the ChillOut Festival, where we work to put flagpoles and Pride Flags in schools across Victoria to promote inclusion and combat homophobia.

I also love spending time at home with my partner Ash and dog Banjo, binge watching TV and being angry about how nothing grows in my vegetable garden - yet I am not that proactive about solving the problem.

What’s your connection to Ballan and Moorabool?

We were fortunate enough to buy a home in Ballan in 2019. Ash and I were living in Daylesford and wanting to buy a home in the region, it turns out that we had both had our eye on the same house in Ballan for months yet hadn’t said told each other, so it was meant to be!

What do you like about where you live?

It is wonderful to live on beautiful Wadawarrung country. We have made so manyfriendshereinBallan.Thecommunity spirit and commitment to volunteering here means there is always something interesting happening! Having access to the train is a great bonus and we have so many great community organisations, including The Ballan Arts Space and Collective, and Ballan Community Health, where you will often find me having a laugh doing aqua circuit!

What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

It’s great as it, although if the CWA Devonshire Tea could be on every week that would be a bonus! Plus I would love to see Moorabool Shire Council fly the Pride Flag year round.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

There are a few! I love popping into Millrose Cottage and Chrissie’s Timeless Treasures and buying all my stitching supplies. Thursday night Tai Chi at the Ballan Mechanics Institute is great fun. I also love grabbing a coffee and slice at the Tin Plate and Sunday lunch at the Gordon Hotel. Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.

I was once helicoptered into AAMI Park to hand over the Melbourne Heart match ball before a game.

(Damjan Janevski)

330053_07

Renters left feeling ‘let down’

Sharon Garrity said she was already living on just $10 a fortnight after rent and bills when her landlord increased the rent for her West Melton unit by $90 a fortnight.

Unable to pay the extra rent, Ms Garrity decided she needed to move but was unable to find any rentals she could afford on her disability pension.

“I suffer with bipolar, and there was many a night when I’d just cry myself to sleep at night wondering how the hell I’m going to get through life,” she said.

Ms Garrity’s story is not isolated, according to Anglicare’s Rental Affordability Snapshot, median weekly rents in Metropolitan Melbourne have increased $75 per week since 2019.

The report showed on March 18 there was only one rental in Victoria considered suitable for a single person on the disability pension to rent out of the 11,687 rentals listed, and the figure dropped to zero for people on Jobseeker or Youth Allowance payments.

In Melbourne’s west, CoreLogic data reveals rental prices in Melbourne’s west have increased 8.6 per cent in the year to March.

CoreLogiceconomistKaytlinEzzypredicted an imbalance of supply and demand will increase rents further.

“The reacceleration of Australia’s rental market won’t be welcome news for those tenants already struggling to find affordable accommodation in our capital cities,” she said.

“There’s already a chronic undersupply of advertised rental stock in many parts of the country that’s translated into record low vacancy rates across most capitals.”

Ms Garrity said she was on the priority wait list for government housing, but was told the wait time is 20 years.

She found herself relying on private charities for help, utilising local food banks,

and eventually getting into a new rental with support from the Salvation Army.

“If it wasn’t for the Salvation Army, I don’t know where I’d be today … I’d probably be homeless now,” she said.

“The rents are just ridiculous, people can’t survive with the rents going up and up all the time.

“There’s a couple down the road sleeping in the park. There were about three different families there at one stage.”

Salvation Army western metro private rental assistance program senior case manager Jessica Grace said has noticed the effect of rent increases in the western suburbs.

“In particular, more ‘affordable’ suburbs like Werribee and Melton have seen rental prices change quite rapidly … more households are presenting to our service seeking assistance to findalternativeor’cheaper’propertieswith$50 per week increases becoming the new normal,” she said.

“Low-income earners have always struggled to make ends meet in the private market and it’s common for clients to tell me that they have skipped meals or went without medicine to pay bills or rent.

“The current economic challenges and lack of affordable housing means there has been an increased number of people on the disability and aged pensions seeking support to sustain and establish tenancies.”

From Wednesday, April 22, Community Housing Industry Association Victoria (CHIA Vic) held a two-day conference in Melbourne to unpack the housing demand in Victoria.

Analysis by CHIA Vic shows by early next year, tenants in Melbourne could be spending an extra $64 per week, or $3800 extra in a year.

CHIA Vic acting chief executive Jason Perdriau said social and affordable housing should be central to the state government’s

planning reforms.

“It’sclearVictorianrentersarebeingletdown by the private market. Right now, Victorians have limited affordable housing options with the state having the lowest proportion of social housing in the country. This is unacceptable,” Mr Perdriau said.

A state government spokesperson said there is high demand for social and affordable housing options across Victoria and Australia and “we are using all the levers within our control to house as many people as possible as quickly as possible”.

“The Andrews Labor Government is investing record amounts to increase the supplyofsocialhousingacrossthestate–under the historic $5.3 billion Big Housing Build, we are on track to deliver more than 12,000 new social and affordable homes for Victorians to house applicants from the Victorian Housing Register,” they said.

“Melbourne’s west is a key area for the Big Housing Build, with a combined $386 million in funding for homes across Melton, Maribyrnong, Wyndham, Brimbank, and Hobsons Bay local government areas. This will fund a total 865 new homes, of which 225 are already complete.”

Mr Perdriau said that while he is supportive of the Big Housing Build, more work is needed.

“TheBigHousingBuildhasandwillcontinue to be life changing for many Victorians but funding is drying up,” he said.

“The Victorian Government can continue the momentum of this historic investment by investing $6 billion in a Social Housing Investment Fund to deliver 20,000 social homes over the next decade.”

Along with more affordable and government housing,Anglicareareadvocatingforincreases to income support payments, including for Jobseeker to be raised above the poverty line.

Federal social services Minister Amanda Rishworth said the government is assessing income payment supports before the budget, which will be made public on May 9.

“We know that people are doing it tough. Inflation has driven up costs for a range of reasons and people are feeling it at the supermarket and in their bills and services,” she said.

“We will ensure that every budget we hand down is developed in consideration of the measures we can take to support people in Australia who are doing it tough. This will include energy bill price relief that prioritises those on payments and pensions.

“IntheMaybudgetandbeyond,theAlbanese Government will continue its work to build a stronger, fairer and more inclusive society where more Australians have the chance to contribute and share in our economic success.”

With the rental market tightening across Australia, Liam McNally spoke to residents and community groups in Melbourne’s west to see how it is affecting people on the ground and what is being done to address the issue.

Sharon Garrity reached out to the Salvation Army when her rent increased by 90 dollars a fortnight. (Jacob Pattison) 329706_01

‘‘ If it wasn’t for the Salvation Army, I don’t know where I’d be today … I’d probably be homeless now ’’

- Sharon Garrity

CHIA Vic acting chief executive Jason Perdriau at the organisations housing conference on Wednesday, April 26. (CHIA Vic)

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

30 years ago

May 5, 1993

The construction of a post and rail fence at Hannah Watts Park has sparked mixed reactions in Melton.

25 years ago

May 6, 1998

Mooraboolcouncilwillmovetoestablisha strong position for the shire in the rapidly expanding wildlife tourism market.

20 years ago

May 6, 2003

Melton council has distanced its self from a company making submissions to the state government to have land rezoned between Plumpton Road, Melton-Keilor Road, and Ballarat Road in Plumpton, Diggers Rest and Rockbank.

15 years ago

May 6, 2008

Melton council faces a backlog of improvements to unsealed gravel roads that will take “many years to whittle down”.

YOURNEWCAREER ...startshere

PRINT AND PRINT AND PRINT AND ONLINE SALES ONLINE SALES ONLINE SALES

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

The Gap on Graham

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

■ Val, 0414 769 605.

Melton Men’s Group

Melton Men’s Group meet every Thursday from 5pm to 8pm at Arnolds Creek Children’s and Community Centre, 19 Claret Ash Boulevard, Harkness. Focusing on Senior Men’s mental and physical wellbeing. Join the group for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including carpet bowls, pool or table tennis.

■ meltonmensgroup.home.blog

Sunrise Social Groups

GenWest Sunrise Social Groups are currently seeking new members for their Melton, Brimbank 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.

■ https://genwest.org.au/what-we-do/ health-wellbeing-programs/

Bacchus Marsh Market

Bacchus Marsh rejoice! There will be a monthly market at Maddingley Park. On the second Saturday of every month there

will be a variety of stallholders and food trucks. Bring a picnic blanket and invite your friends and family for a lovely market day out.

Take weight off naturally Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Weight Off Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the

Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton.

■ Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739

Parkinson’s support group

The Melton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the second Thursday of the month 10.30am–12.30pm at Kurunjang Community Centre, 33-35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. New members and

carers welcome.

■ Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Bridge Club

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

■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

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

Melton Ladies Probus Club

The Melton Ladies Probus Club meet at 10am on the second Wednesday of each month, at the Melton Country Club and are welcoming new members. Contact Diane.

■ 0438 611 552

Melton South Knit & Natter

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

■ 9747 8576

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Joyce and Douglas Wood who recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary. (Damjan Janevski) 330779_01

Crowds gather to show respect

Melton

In the early hours of the still morning hundreds gathered at the Melton cenotaph at dawn to pay their respects on Anzac Day.

Members of the Melton RSL, the Vietnam Veterans associations, war veterans, serving ADF members, representatives from local, state, and federal government, as well as residents and community groups all fell silent for a minute of reflection, broken by Revielle as dawn broke through the clear sky.

Past Melton RSL president, and founding member of the Vietnam Veterans Association, Ian Lawry reflected on experiencing Anzac Day at primary school.

“The whole school would assemble for the Ode and the Last Post. As kids we would talk about our dads, and our uncles, and our grampas who had been away. We knew what it meant, but never dreamt that some of us would follow in their footsteps,” he said.

“Each year we pay homage not only to those original Anzacs, but to all those who died or were disabled in their service to this country. They enrich our nation’s history, their hope was for the freedom of mankind, and we remember with pride their courage, compassion, and their comradeship.”

Bacchus March

Ballan’s Anzac Day began with a dawn service in Mclean Park from 6am, followed by a gunfire breakfast, and in the afternoon a march from the Ballan RSL to the local Cenotaph for an afternoon service.

The service gave special recognition to the 70th anniversary of the Korean War ceasefire, the 60th anniversary of the beginning of Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War, and the 50th anniversary of the war’s end, for which Vietnam veteran Rod Edward spoke on his experience.

The Ballan service also had a theme of animals in service, and students from Myrniong Primary School gave a presentation on the role of animals in the Australian Defence Force.

Ballan RSL president Pippa Morris addressed the gathered crowd and said “the spirit of the Anzacs is here with us today, here in the central highlands”.

“The veterans here are clothed in it, as too are the families and communities which nurture them,” she said.

“I for one am proud to have served alongside men and women who have embodied the spirit of the Anzacs. It’s also my privilege that as a member of the RSL I continue to rub shoulders with these men and women.”

On Anzac Day, Tuesday April 25, communities gathered at a variety of services across Melton and Moorabool to remember those lost in war, and also those who returned home changed forever by war and conflict.

Ballan

Bacchus Marsh RSL hosted a dawn service from 5.45am on the Village Green next to the RSL. The service was followed by a gunfire breakfast provided by the SES outside the public hall. At 9.30am, and an Anzac march commenced from outside the hospital carpark, down the main street, and concluded back at the Village Green.

Right: A member of the Catafalque party during Melton’s dawn Service.

A wreath being laid on behalf of Brookfield Lifestyle Village, and by Melton MP Steve McGhie at the Melton dawn service. (Pictures: Liam McNally) 331649

Army Reserve warrant officer Class 1 David England, Melton RSL senior vice president, lieutenant commander RAN PTD Russell Pettis, Army Reserve warrant officer class 1 Andrew Dobson, and Melton RSL secretary Andrew Jeynes.

Gaudi the horse and Suzanna the donkey with their Light Horse riders. (Pictures: Liam McNally) 332144

Kevin Lockman and Ballan RSL president Pippa Morris, and below, the Anzac march to the Ballan Cenotaph.

Bachus Marsh Anzac march. (Pictures: Liam McNally and Greg Sobey) 331660

PUZZLES QUICK CROSSWORD

SUDOKU

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.

1 Hand-held curved blade for reaping (6)

4 Inverted (8)

10 Dilapidation (9)

11 Seize (5)

12 Cupid for the ancient Greeks (4)

5 Having impaired vision (arch.) (8) 6 Taking something by force (10)

DECODER WORDFIT

9-LETTER WORD

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

aping, axing, dean, deign, dine, ding, ending, expand, EXPANDING, gain, gained, ginned, inane, index, nape, neap, nine, pain, pained, pane, pang, panned, pend, pending, pine, pined, ping, pinged, pinned

No. 131

1 Is a monteith a type of bowl, cape or curtain?

2 The tangelo is a hybrid of which two fruits?

3 Who played Susan in the 1980s film Desperately SeekingSusan?

4 In which country would you find the Hôtel de Glace?

5 What does the Latin phrase caveatemptor mean?

6 What is the capital of Saudi Arabia?

7 What is a farthingale?

8 The emblem of which Australian state or territory belongs to the same genus as cotton?

9 In which year did the Berlin Wall (pictured) fall?

10 In terms of carbon dating, what does BP stand for?

No. 131

No. 131

annex,

•All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication.

•After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear.

• The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item.

• Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer.

• The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which Rugby Union coach announced he was stepping down, citing the culture at his club to be ‘like Shawshank’?

2. And which Super Rugby team did he coach for?

3. Which NFL team won the 2008 Superbowl?

4. Aussie tennis player Chris O’Connell accomplished an upset against which veteran tennis player?

5. Australian athlete Jay Vine is best known for which sport?

6. The daughter of St Kilda great Danny Frawley, Danielle Frawley recently announced her engagement to which Melbourne star?

Which AFL star recently became the sixth North Melbourne player to reach 300 games?

Which AFL teams play annually at the ANZAC Day game?

What team does NRL forward Tom Burgess play for?

How many NRL clubs have yet to win a premiership?

What is the nickname given to the annual Essendon and Geelong game played at the MCG each AFL season?

12. What is the name of the award given to the NBA’s best player to come off the bench each season?

13. Which American golfer was the individual winner at the recent LIV Golf event in Adelaide?

14. What two NHL teams will be playing exhibition games in Melbourne in September?

15. What is the name of the Welsh soccer team owned by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney?

16. Leah Williamson is captain of which women’s national soccer team?

17. Ivan Cleary currently coaches which NRL team?

18. The NBL team Melbourne United were previous known by what name?

19. The annual horse race known as The Everest has a purse of how many millions of dollars?

7.

Todd

20. Australian soccer player Sam Kerr played her first game for Chelsea in which year?

21. Which club did Sam Mitchell play for after Hawthorn?

22.Demi Bennett plays under what ring name in the WWE?

23. In what year did the first annual ANZAC Day AFL game occur?

24. And which team won?

25. Former Wallabies captain David Pocock is now in which profession?

5. Cycling 6. Angus

General Notices

26. When was curling officially added to the Winter Olympics program?

27. What sport was once known as Kitten Ball?

28. What is the highest number you can finish a game of darts on?

29. Former Australian tennis player Ash Barty once played for which WBBL team?

1. Brad Thorn 2. Queensland Reds 3. New York Giants 4. Alexander

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Farewell tour for Mazda’s CX-9

By Alistair Kennedy

A luxury seven-seat family SUV, the CX-9 has been Mazda’s flagship model since it arrived here in 2007.

With seven seats standard across its range, vehicles such as the CX-9 have effectively replaced people movers especially when they come, as the CX-9 does, with the choice of front- or all-wheel drive.

The former contributes to better performance, lower fuel consumption and reducedemissions--thelatterprovidingextra tractionfortowingormildoff-roadcapability.

The current, second generation CX-9 has been around since 2016 and is due to be replaced in August by the all-new and significantly more expensive, CX-90.

Mazda Australia has indicated that the CX-9 will remain on sale until at least the end of this year. As such, we thought a final review worthwhile.

CX-9 is offered in Sport, Touring, GT, GT SP, Azami and Azami LE variants. All but the Azami LE are available with the choice of front- or all-wheel drive – LE is AWD only. Our test vehicle was the entry-level Sport FWD.

Interior

Mazda CX-9 is just over five metres in length and even third row legroom is almost okay for adultswithaccessviaawitchonthesideofthe seat cushion that tilts the seat forward.

The front seats are soft and wide, while the second row of a double bench layout has generous head and leg room.

The window line is quite high and could restrict the vision of young children.

Cargo capacity is better than many in the seven-seat class, with a reasonable 230 litres available with all seven seats in use or 810 litres with the third-row seats folded. The loading height of the floor is a comfortable 805mm.

Engines / transmissions

In contrast to the wide range of grades, there’s just the one powertrain. The Skyactiv-G2.5T turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 170kWofpeakpowerat5000rpmand420Nm of maximum torque from a low 2000 revs.

The engine is mated to Mazda’s SkyActiv-Drive six-speed automatic transmission.

The powertrain features Mazda’s stop-and-go function, designed to maximise fuel efficiency. It works by cutting the motor when the vehicle comes to rest, restarting it once brake pedal pressure is relaxed.

Safety

Mazdahasneverbeenacompanytocutcorners on safety equipment and all CX-9 variants come with a wide range of driver support systems, including Mazda’s i-Activsense that usesradarsandcamerastorecognisepotential hazards. There is pre-crash safety technology to prevent or reduce the severity of impacts.

There’s also smart city forward and rear brake support, autonomous emergency braking including night time pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, driver inattention alert and radar cruise control with stop/go function.

Lane departure warning is also fitted, with lane-keep assist, traffic sign recognition, high beam headlight control, Isofix child seat anchors in the outer second-row seats, and head-up display.

The only safety features missing from the CX-9Sportarefrontparkingsensors(Touring and above) and a 360-degree camera (Azami and Azami LE).

Italmostgoeswithoutsayingthesedays,but the big Mazda cruiser has a five-star ANCAP rating.

Infotainment

The 7.0-inch screen in the Sport lookstiny inside the CX-9’s large front console. Touring steps up to a 9.0-inch screen while all from GT upwards expand the screen to 10.25 inches.

The Mazda MZD Connect system provides access to the internet, social media, email, Pandora, Stitcher and Aha as well as hands-free voice and text messaging through Bluetooth.

Although it is a touchscreen, we quickly switched over to using the traditional Mazda Command Control knob and buttons on the centre console which are much easier to reach and use.

Satellite navigation is standard across the range as is wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless smartphone charging pad is located at the bottom of the front console in GT and higher variants.

Driving

The large dimensions of the CX-9 make for easy access. The front seats are relatively narrow but supportive and comfortable. In the entry-level Sport that we tested they lack power adjustment.

Sport does have a reversing camera, but not front parking sensors or 360-degree camera which are available in higher-spec variants.

This Mazda has good low-down torque that makes it pleasant to drive on a day-to-day basis,thoughit’sobviouslynosportsmachine. An 11.8 metre turning circle can make parking a hassle in tight spaces, particularly in underground carparks.

Out of town it’s like a luxury cruising sedan

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE

Sport FWD: $47,600

Touring FWD: $55,200

GT FWD: $64,700

GT SP FWD: $65,200

Azami FWD: $67,900

Sport AWD: $51,600

Touring AWD: $59,200

GT AWD: $68,700

GT SP AWD: $69,200

Azami AWD: $71,915

Azami LE AWD: $75,165

SPECIFICATIONS

with sound deadening material added as part of upgrades, meaning the cabin is lovely and quiet.

Steering is relatively light, but responsive and predicable. The ride is smooth with low levels of noise, vibration and harshness.

Sport Mode can be activated through a switch on the centre console. This increases throttle response, while moving auto transmission shift points for improved acceleration, for example when looking to overtake, or filtering on to a motorway.

Fuel consumption is listed at a combined 8.4L/100km. We were initially sceptical about what is a low number for such a large vehicle, but were pleasantly surprised when we averaged an 8.6L/100 km during our week-long test, albeit predominantly in motorway and rural conditions.

Summing up

The CX-9’s spacious and comfortable cabin, refinedrideandhandlingandverycompetitive pricing combine to make for a very attractive package.It’sanexcellentlong-distancecruiser and almost falls into the luxury saloon class. But … it’s nearly seven years old and that shows mainly in the tech features that lag behind most competitors as well as its upcoming CX-90 successor which also brings new petrol and diesel engines.

We’ll be testing the CX-90 when it arrives around August and let you know whether the significant price increases (at least 25 percent) are justified.

All Mazdas come with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty. Service intervals are 12 months or 10,000km.

The Mazda CX-9 is an attractive, comfortable and affordable family SUV. (Pictures: Supplied)

Mazda CX-9 Sport 2.5-litre five-speed wagon

Not quite a fairy tale for United

By Tara Murray

Western United’s amazing debut A-League Women’s season didn’t get the fairy tale ending the club and its supporters had hoped for.

After exceeding all expectations and making a grand final in its first season, United’s first grand final appearance ended in tears on Sunday.

Sydney FC, a side that had suffered grand final heartache the previous three seasons, scored twice early on from set pieces to put the pressure back on United.

United then had its chances, but weren’t able to convert.

A controversial penalty in the 63rd minute was the dagger in the heart for United fans and players.

While United played out the game well, Sydney found a fourth goal in the first minute of injury time to seal a 4-0 win.

United coach Mark Torcaso said he was so proud of the group and what they had been able to do.

“I spoke to them right after and literally said this has been a remarkable season,” he said in the post game press conference.

“In our first year to be in a grand final, you should be extremely proud to be out there, your families should be proud and the whole club should be proud of them. Their spirits are quite high and they’ve said they’ll be back and back even better.

“We’ve already signed up 13 of that group which is really good. We’ll look at bringing in oneortwomoreifthere’sothergirlslookingto move onto other clubs or situations overseas.

“We’re happy and satisfied with our group of players and we’ve got a pathway and we’ve got some good players coming through in our feeder as well.”

Torcaso said going down 2-0 wasn’t ideal and meant they were always on the back foot. He said after being so good at defending set pieces, it was disappointing to let two go through in the decider.

He said the group continued to have belief in what they were doing in front of a record A-League Women’s grand final crowd.

“We actually came into half time and girls absolutely believed we could get something out of it, especially the last 20 minutes,” he said.

“The way we played in that first half, we gave a little bit of hope in the way that we approached that last little bit and the girls worked really hard.

“We showed some fight and showed some character and I guess that is what we’ve pretty much done all season, really proud of the girls, can’t fault them.”

Torcaso said the third goal via the penalty was a bit tight and in other games that

wouldn’t have been called.

He said it was the final straw for them.

Torcaso said the playing group was okay after the result, with the likes of Jess McDonald, Chloe Logarzo and Angie Beard consoling them.

McDonald, who played for United early in the season, flew out from America to watch the game.

Torcaso said not having those three out there wasn’t ideal, but said the rest of the group had stood up.

He admits Logarzo was close to getting picked.

“Chloe trained yesterday [Saturday], she has a World Cup to play for,” he said.

“Idon’t’thinkit’sfairtoputherinaposition that might jeopardise that. We had a really long discussion about that, just proud to have her part of our change room, be involved

“Yesterday and this morning I thought I was going to push her, but thought I probably shouldn’t.”

While United didn’t come away with the trophy, the group are still winners in a lot of ways this season.

Torcaso said the United program was more than just about the group of players on the pitch.

“It’s been unbelievable,” he said. “It’s been a brilliant ride, some girls up there had never been exposed to an A-League environment.

“I take a huge amount of enthusiasm going into next season, some of these girls outshone what I believed that they could do they’ve been amazing,

“It’s something quite emotional for me, I’ve had an attachment to some of these girls for many, many years, ever since some of them were 14.

“One message from the start [for us] was to set the tone for the next player that wants to play the game or wants to wear a Western United top. I think we’ve done that.

“Being located out in the west, it’s a growing area and there’s a lot of young people for us.

It’s about creating the next young girl who wants to put on a Western United shirt or a Matildas shirt and that’s the exciting part for us.”

Torcaso said he would have a break now, after he and many of the group came straight out of a National Premier League Women’s season into the A-League season.

He said some of the girls would play some NPLW in the off season and he would spend plenty of time watching that competition. Then it would be time to go again next season.

“I think they’ve got enough belief in each other to come back next year and have a really good year,” he said.

“I don’t want to be the team that comes out in the following season after having a good season and not performing. That is my expectation and my players will also feel that way, we’ll make sure we put the right belief in them to come out in the right way next year.”

Hannah Keane and Natalie Tobin fight for the ball in the A-League Women’s grand final. (AAP Image/James Gourley)

Western United’s starting line up (AAP Image/James Gourley)

Alana Cerne and Madison Haley during the A-League Women’s grand final (AAP Image/James Gourley)

Melton lifts intensity as it looks for promotion

Melton Phoenix has to back itself in more in the FV state league 5 west competition according to coach Darren Traynor.

The Phoenix have had a strong start to the season as it aims to be in contention for promotion again this season.

Traynor said while they were getting a lot of good results, they had to ensure they had that killer instinct and put teams away early in matches.

“We have a stronger side than last season, but the league is also stronger than last year,” he said.

“We’re still tweaking a few things. We’re aiming to build as the season goes on, 100 per cent.”

Traynor said Saturday’s match against Wyndham was one which showed what they can do when they turn the heat up.

He said Wyndham had improved a lot on the last couple of seasons

“It was 2-0 at half time,” he said. “We were tentative in the first half.

“We said to them at half time they were a bit timid. We said have a go and if we make a few

errors, we make a few errors.

“We have a good side, we need to take it to them and see how they react. They ran out legs and we were able to score.”

The Phoenix came away with a 7-0 win with Lachlan Stafford and Elmedin Smajic scoring two goals each.

Traynor said it was pleasing to also keep a clear sheet. After six rounds the Phoenix sit fifth on the ladder, with three wins and a draw in the results.

Traynor said they could have easily been undefeated at this stage of the season.

Cobras focus on youth

By Tara Murray

It’s a case of short term pain for long term gain for Bacchus Marsh in the Ballarat Football League this season.

With a number of off season departures, the Cobras are taking the approach of looking towards the future and blooding the next generation.

The focus on youth has had an impact on results, with the Cobras without a win after the first three games.

Coach Jason Williams said it has been a tough start results wise, but they’re looking at the bigger picture.

“In terms of playing young kids on the field, we’ve been able to do that,” he said.

“With so many players leaving we don’t have a choice and it’s now about laying the foundations for our next premiership side.

“We’re getting important games into the whole group. Normally you might get one or two getting games.

“We had 11 under-20 on Saturday and seven under-18. We’re playing a lot of kids.”

Williams said one of the biggest learning curves was that there would be a lot of ups and downs with having so many younger players stepping up.

He said the group would get better as they get more football under their belts.

“Some weeks they will be better than anyone expected and then they won’t have the same energy as they played the week before,” he said.

“It was the case against Darley and the way the kids played [really well]. They lacked the energy early against North Ballarat and momentum is a hard thing to get back.

“It was one of those days and you have a bit of frustration and want a little bit more effort, but there’s a reason for it.”

Williams said there’s so many young guys to get excited about, many of them who are part of the talent pathway systems.

He highlighted Cody Gates, Josh Huxtable, EthanDavisandJackKovacevic.JoelFreeman was in the goals on Saturday, while Callum Smith is another.

Williams also singled out Kai Tyrrell saying he lacked confidence early in the pre-season, but was now getting close to playing some really good football at this level.

On Saturday, the Cobras lost to North Ballarat, 18.13 (121)-7.11 (53). North Ballarat led throughout the match and was able to build the lead in every quarter.

Simon Lafranchi was named the Cobras best.

Williams said the focus for the group was to continue building on what they’ve been doing.

“We want to trend in the right direction,” he said.

“The key stats we want to close the gap on the opposition.

“So far we’re doing a good job of it.

Sebastopol smashed us in every stat, but against Darley we closed the gap.

“Yesterday [Saturday] was our best day for inside 50s and we’ve taken steps week by week.

“It will take time and a large body of work. I’m happy with where we are going.”

In other matches, Darley was too strong for East Point, winning 14.16 (100)-9.7 (61). Melton won the grand final rematch against Sebastopol, 11.12 (78)-9.7 (61).

Melton South had a tough day against the Sunbury Lions, losing 25.21 (171)-6.3 (39).

“Against Larea in the first half we were 2-0 down but they didn’t get the ball out of their half in the second half,” he said.

“At 2-1 the referee disallowed a goal that would have put us up 3-1. They had a free kick and it dribbled past everyone.

“Against Bendigo it was 1-1 before we had to play the last 35 minutes with 10 men. Bendigo is a side like us.”

The Phoenix this week will face Ballarat. In state league 4 west, Spring Hills took the win against the Truganina Hornets. The Stallions went a man down in the 43rd minute but were able to continue to fighting on. Nathan Campbell gave the Stallions the lead in the 63rd minute, with the side able to hold on for a 1-0 win.

In state league 3 north-west, Westside Strikers suffered a 2-2 draw to Craigieburn City.

Craigieburn led 2-0 at half time before the Strikers found the back of the net twice late in the piece to level the scores.

Tara Murray

Sports shorts

A-League

Western United finished its season on a winning note in the A-League Men’s competition on Saturday night. On the road against Perth Glory, United took an early lead when Ben Garuccio scored in the 25th minute. Glory got one back just on half time. Noah Botic gave United the lead back and United were soon a man up when Mark Beevers received a red card. United had done enough to get a 2-1 win. United finished the season in seventh spot.

NPL

Caroline Springs George Cross’ came home from their road trip to face the Goulburn Valley Suns empty handed in the National Premier League 3 competition. A late goal in the first half gave the Suns the lead. Neither side could find the back of the net in the second half, with the Suns winning 1-0. The Georgies have two wins and a draw after seven matches.

A-League

Western United stars Hillary Beall and Hannah Keane have been recognised for their outstanding seasons with selection in the Austraffic PFA A-League Women team of the season. Keane was recognised after being the league’s dominant striker this season, winning the Golden Boot with 13 goals for the campaign. At the other end, Beall emerged as one of the competition’s leading goalkeepers in her first year as a professional No.1 and was noted for her performances.

WRFL

Caroline Springs remains undefeated in the Western Region Football League division 1 competition. The Lakers faced Yarraville Seddon Eagles on Saturday, taking control of the game after quarter time on the way to a 20.11 (131)-10.8 (68) win. Cooper Pepi kicked five goals in a best on ground performance. The Lakers’ division 1 women’s side suffered an upset loss on Friday night to Werribee Centrals, losing 8.9 (57)-2.5 (17).

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Matthew Pernasilici (Jacob Pattison) 331336_06

Bacchus Marsh’s Joel Freeman. (Joe Mastroianni). 285243_02

A Gs White Socks continues strong pace form

The rejuvenation of A Gs White Socks continued to unfold at Victorian harness racing headquarters on Saturday night as the well-travellednine-year-oldaddedyetanother victory to a fruitful month or two at the races.

The former New Zealand-based pacer streeted his rivals in the TAB Golden Reign Free For All, with an early move from the back line paying dividends as Greg Sugars completed a bloodless coup in his battle for the front.

And from there it was basically game over for his rivals as A Gs White Socks slipped away approaching the turn and cruised down to the line to win by more than 5m over Max Delight, who hit the line nicely second-up from a spell.

A Gs White Socks had won just one race since his famous 2020 Ballarat Pacing Cup triumph before joining Myrniong trainer Jess Tubbs, but has now landed four from his last five starts.

“We are really proud of the job we’ve been able to do with this horse since joining our stableandhe’sgotaspecialplaceinourheart,”

Sugars said.

“He’s a bit of a character and there’s a great group of people (who own him), and it’s such a pleasure to have him back racing probably somewhere near career-best form.”

Sugars said A Gs White Socks was a confidencehorse,withabigemphasisrequired

on keeping him happy.

“After doing a little bit of tinkering with things, we’ve sort of got a routine that seems to be agreeing with him now. And as you can see, we are getting great results on the track,” he said.

A Gs White Socks, who only joined the

Falcons shine at home

By Tara Murray

City West Falcons enjoyed the opportunity to play in front of their home crowd in the Victorian Netball League on Wednesday night

Instead of making the trek to the State Netball and Hockey Centre, the Falcons played their first of three games this season at Altona.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said it was nice to see a big crowd to watch them, including the next generation from Melbourne’s west.

“We’re all involved in the 11s, 13s and 15s rep sides at Altona,” she said.

“There was a great turnout of the kids that are the future and looking to come through the pathways.

“Ideally we would have preferred the school holidays, but nationals were on.

“It’s a good start and we’re got another two there and hopefully we can build on it.”

On court, the Falcons continued on their winning ways with three wins across the board against the Ariels.

In championship division, the Falcons had no trouble at all in the 82-35 win.

Lind said it was a good solid win.

“We rolled the team around a bit and we

were able to see a few different combinations,” she said.

“We were way more solid than Ariels. They weren’t as experienced and that showed.”

Jane Cook shot 26 goals for the Falcons, while Maddy Gray scored 20.

Kim Borger made her debut for the Falcons scoring 16 goals.

Lind said they had signed Borger as a replacement player for Uneeq Palavi who is set to miss games later in the season with the world cup.

“Kim came in and played, which is always a challenge when someone has never played before comes in.

“When we signed her as cover for championship, we didn’t see her being picked up by the Melbourne Vixens.

“It means she hasn’t trained with us and never met some of the girls. She showed something different to what we have, with both Jane and Maddy.”

Lind said they were happy with the performance across the board.

“I’m pleased with the work Sienna [Allen] has done and her willingness to improve,” she said.

“She was a sign on with SSN [Suncorp Super Netball] last year and the year before that. She

had a lot of injuries, but her progress is really pleasing and the hard work is showing off.

“Maggie [Lind] and Montana [Holmes] were good. The whole attack end was good. Scoring 82 is not easy.

Molly Kennedy, a scholarship player, played for a second straight week which was another positive.

Lind said Kennedy is another option later in the season, when they could have three players at the world cup.

The Falcons sit on top the ladder after three rounds, one of three teams with a 3-1 record.

The Falcons under-19s are also on top and undefeated, while the division 1 side has moved into the top four.

Lind said they were now getting a better idea of where everyone sits in the competition.

The Falcons this week face Melbourne University.

Lind said they were looking forward to the challenge.

“It will be tough. I think MU and Casey are teams that are on the rise. We’ve got some hard tests the next three weeks.

“We are due for a hard test.”

Tubbs stable from Belinda McCarthy’s barn late last year, has now won 17 of 96 career starts for prizemoney earnings of more than $680,000.

Earlier in the night, Damian Wilson produced a brilliant training performance to win the $35,000 APG Gold Bullion 2YO Consolation with Byrneside Boom.

The son of Sportswriter galloped at his only previous start – a heat of the series at Melton on April 17 – but did everything right the second time around to score at double-figure odds.

Wilson took the reins of the brown colt and settled last from barrier seven before coming with a sustained three-wide run down the back straight. He hit the front at the final turn and gripped on to defeat Kwick Sand by just over a metre with Carramar Olam third.

Anthony Butt landed a driving double at Melton with Joe Pace-trained Justalittlesip and Sonya Smith-prepared Hammers Law, whileChrisSvanosiotrainedanddroveAroha Koe and Heavenly Charm to victory.

St Anthonys’ call to arms

St Anthonys has put out a call to arms to ensure the club’s future in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association.

St Anthonys secretary and life member

Gavin Olinowski posted a message on the club’s social media, calling for help to get the club back to where it once was.

“The last few years have not been kind to us,” he said. “Off the field financially, committee numbers, volunteers, and also on the field with playing numbers.

“COVID, lack of sponsorship, a large reduction in playing memberships and social events have brought our club finances into dire straits at the end of this current season. Whilst we maintained similar playing numbers for the past two seasons in both seniors and juniors, there is always a need to bolster these numbers moving forward.”

Olinowskisaidtherehadbeenverylittle support at a committee and volunteer level which has left too much to be done by too few, for far too long.

He said it had now caused “burn out” for these people.

“There is constant speculation and rumour of people wanting to take on committee roles and lead the club in a new direction with different ideas and enthusiasm,” he said. “Now is the time for these people to step up, gather your troops, and follow through.

“It is also a time for anyone who is interested and has the passion and love for the club to strongly consider joining the committee and/or being involved at the club. We also would really love and appreciate prospective businesses and sponsors jumping onboard to help provide much needed support financially to the club.”

Olinowskisaidtheyknowitisadifficult job ahead. He and current president Julie Burfurd will be stepping down from their positionsattheannualgeneralmeetingin May. He said they are both willing to help or advise their replacements, if required.

“It is absolutely vital that we have some new people, voices, perspectives join the committee for this upcoming season (and beyond),” he said. We have a proud history, and have come back from even more dire situations before, and hopefully this message here will inspire those who want to help, to do so and get St Anthonys Cricket Club back to the heights it belongs.”

Kim Borger stepped out for the City West Falcons for the first time. (Robbab Photography)

Tim O’Connor

A Gs White Socks (Stuart McCormick)

Diamanti to hang up his Western United boots

Western United skipper Alessandro Diamanti’s professional career will come to an end at the end of the A-League Men’s season.

The mercurial attacking midfielder will call time on a decorated career spanning four countries, 23 years and more than 550 professional matches for club and country.

Diamant paid tribute to his fans, teammates and coaches over the years in the announcement.

“I am a happy man,” he said. “I have always tried to be a footballer of the people, for the people. I have always followed the true values of football.

“I haven’t been a 100 trophy player, but I have been a player who felt loved, by my loved ones first and by all the thousands of people who have been following me for more than 20 years. The love that you fans have constantly always given me has been and is my greatest victory.”

DiamantiarrivedatWesternUnitedin2019,

becoming the club’s inaugural captain and immediately endearing himself to Australian football.

His magical displays earned him a clean sweep of individual awards in the club’s inauguralseason,winningtheJohnnyWarren Medal, the Alex Tobin Medal and the Western United player of the season.

He was nominated for the Johnny Warren Medal again in season two before his third season was cruelly ended early due to a knee injury.

Diamanti’s leadership and influence remained pivotal, though, as Western United went on to win its first ever A-League Men championship, with the captain raising the trophy aloft alongside Josh Risdon.

In total, Diamanti has played 81 times for Western United, scoring 11 goals and registering 18 assists over that time.

Western United football general manager

Mal Impiombato hailed the impact Diamanti had on the Club and celebrated the Italian’s remarkable career.

“Alessandro has had an incredible career as a footballer and will be deserving of all the applause and recognition that he receives,” he said. “For us as a football club, Dia has been the catalyst for so much of our growth both on and off the pitch and has contributed to each of our most special memories.

“As the inaugural captain of our club, Dia helped create the successful foundations here and will go down as a Western United legend and one of the greatest players to grace the A-Leagues.”

Diamanti was a fan favourite just about everywhere he went, particularly endearing himself to the West Ham United faithful after one spectacular season in the English Premier League.

Sharks’ confident start

By Tara Murray

Hillside has ticked a lot of boxes in the opening three rounds of the Essendon District Football League division 1 season, but there’s still plenty of improvement to come.

TheSharks,whohadthebyeontheweekend, won their opening three matches against Keilor Park, Rupertswood and Craigieburn.

Coach Charlie Denaro said he was happy with how the start of the season had panned out.

“We are ticking a lot of boxes,” he said.

“We’ve changed a few things with the way that we play. We’re not at the level we want to play later in the year, but we’ve started well.”

Denaro said for the side the biggest thing is they don’t want to be one-dimensional in the forward line and relying too much on Josh Covelli.

Last season’s division 1 leading goalkicker, has still had his chances in the first three rounds, kicking 12 goals but the Sharks have found other avenues as well.

“It’s been about our ability to share the footy,” Denaro said.

“We didn’t want to be too reliant on Josh and we’re looking to share the inside 50s. Someone of Josh’s stature is always going to get goals, but having different sources out there is important.”

Denaro said the inclusion of recruit Ryan Lojko had been important for the forward line.

While he’s yet to hit the scoreboard in a big way, he’s been doing a lot of the hard work and providing a marking target at centre half forward.

Another change to the Sharks forward line has seen Bailey Ryan move into the midfield a bit more.

He has still kicked six goals for the season. Denaro said it was nice to have the option to throw Ryan forward if they need him too.

Early signs for all the Sharks recruits have been good. Denaro said they were all fitting in.

“It has been an easy transition for them coming from other clubs they have been at for a long time,” he said.

“They’re been outstanding in the way we do things. [Anthony] Prestia has been fantastic.

“Alessio Gobbo in the ruck has been good.”

Denaro said the week off had come at a good time and it gave them the chance to review the first few weeks and see where they can improve.

They face Roxburgh Park this week, a side that just missed finals last year. After a couple of close battles last season, Denaro said it would be a good test.

Thoroughbreds fall short

A late comeback by the Melton Thoroughbreds fell short in the Big V men’s division 2 competition on Sunday.

Facing the Wallan Panthers, it was the home team that started the better of the two sides, leading by five points at quarter time.

The margin jumped to 15 at the main break with the Panthers dominating the contest in that quarter.

The margin continued to grow in the third quarter, with the Panthers in control at the last break, leading by 18 points at the last break.

The Thoroughbreds finally clicked into gear in the final quarter. The Thoroughbreds got within three points twice in the final quarter.

The Panthers managed to hold on to win 87-83.

Liam Allison top scored for the Thoroughbreds with 26 points, with most of them coming in the second half.

Blake Allison chipped in with 18 points, shooting at 77.78 per cent from the field.

The loss leaves the Thoroughbreds sit in seventh spot, with just two wins from their first seven games.

In the youth league men’s 2 competition, it was a tough weekend for the Thoroughbreds with two losses.

OnSaturdaynight,theThoroughbreds lost to the Bellarine Storm, 67-60. Tyson Hamilton top scored with 17 points.

The Thoroughbreds backed it up on Sunday against the Panthers. Wallan was too strong in that match, winning 125-84.

Hamilton had another good game, scoring 26 points.

It will be one of a number of tests coming up for the Sharks. “Deer Park, Tullamarine and West Coburg are still the benchmarks of the competition,” Denaro said.

“We’ll take the early wins and hopefully we’ll get some more wins under the belt.”

In division 2, Burnside Heights fell short against the Northern Saints. The Bears led throughout the first three quarters, before the Saints kicked five goals to none in the final quarter to win, 14.17 (101)-13.6 (84).

Liam Allison (Jacob Pattison)326150_03

Tara Murray Alessandro Diamanti. (Supplied)

Bailey Ryan (Shawn Smits)