Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 23rd May 2023

Workshop was a buzz

Hillside artist Adelai van Loggerenberg held a workshop with the Melton Men’s shed to encourage buzzing buddies into backyards for World Bee Day on Saturday, May 20.

The 1.5 hour workshop taught participants about local native insects and habitat structure, and taught them to build a native bee hotel.

Bee hotels are structures made out of natural materials that sit in your garden to encourage certain species of solitary bees to nest.

van Loggerenberg said that different species prefer different densities of wood or bamboo, and like different sized holes to crawl into, but they all need to be placed in a sunny place without too much wind or rain, with nearby vegetation for nectar.

The event also complemented van Loggerenberg’s current exhibition, Pyrrhic Victory, at Melton Library and Learning Hub. Her paintings explore the relationship between human development and the natural environment, with a focus on wildlife habitat for all creatures big and small.

“I think it’s a great opportunity to raise issues around the environment and encourage positive actions community members can undertake in their own backyards,” she said.

School road safety blitz

By Liam McNally

A new police campaign targeting driver awarenessaroundschoolshasbeenlaunchedin

Melton and Brimbank to coincide with Walk Safely to School Day on May 19.

The operation, which was formed in consultation with councils and schools, involves an increased police presence around nominated schools during pick-up and drop off times to encourage better driver behaviour.

Police have nominated eight schools they

believe will benefit from the operation, which will run until June 17.

In Brimbank police will be visible at Kings Park Primary, Keilor Downs College, Taylors Lakes Secondary and St Albans Secondary.

In Melton police will increase their presence around Melton Secondary College, Wedge Park Primary, Melton South Primary and Springside Primary.

Highway Patrol officer in charge, Senior Sergeant Jason Dolman, said the operation follows a period of “significant problems for

pedestrians” over the last 18 months, which have resulted in multiple deaths.

“We are aware that there have been a number of pedestrian related fatalities, they are related to pedestrian and driver awareness risk,” he said. “The roads unfortunately are a risky place and the only thing that can keep people safe is a high level of awareness. We will be out there actively ensuring the community drive safely in high-risk areas.”

Senior Sergeant Dolman said police are also stepping up other patrols, including a targeted

operation at Woodgrove Shopping Centre following a high number of low-level collisions, and increasing the number of locations of road traffic cameras to capture “extreme driver behaviour”.

“The really extreme drivers should expect us to arrive at their doorstep to follow up and the likely outcome of that is that we impound their vehicles,” he said. “It’s an unfortunate consequence of really bad driver behaviour that we have to do that, but those people are the most dangerous people on the road.”

ADELAI VAN LOGGERENBERG (Damjan Janevski) 335474_04

Calls for freeway action

The Calder Action Group is calling for more funding to upgrade the Calder Freeway from the state government, after it missed out on funding in the federal budget.

The Calder Freeway has been the subject of community concern for more than a decade and was named as one of state’s top 10 deadliest roads in 2021, with Brimbank council launching a ‘Fix the Calder Campaign’ the same year. Both governments committed $50 million to the project in 2021, but there has not been significant allocated funding included in budgets since.

Calder Action Group president Russell Mowatt said the community is in limbo without funding to upgrade the freeway.

“We’ve been pushing this as a community group for the last 10 years,” Mr Mowatt said.

“We formed the group on June 7, 2007 with the view to improve the Calder. Nothing’s happening, it’s getting worse, there’s still a lot of accidents [and] congestion is getting worse.

“The longer we leave it, the more it’s going to cost the government and community.”

Mr Mowatt said he was disappointed the freeway did not receive any funding in the federal budget, particularly the Calder Park Drive and Calder Freeway Overpass project.

“In short the federal budget 2023-24 has given diddly-squat about the Calder Freeway,” he said. “I[t] is a road of national importance but … not when budget time comes around from the federal government.”

With a current business case before a budget estimates committee, Mr Mowatt

said he finds the lack of timely progress for the upgrades frustrating. He said while housing developments were being approved, there was a lack of infrastructure to support the growing number of people who use the road.

“It begs the question where is all the money from the developer contribution going?

During his work with the Calder Action Group,MrMowattsaidhehascontactedstate treasurer Tim Pallas with a submission to the 2023-24 Victorian state budget and Sunbury MP Josh Bull, but said Mr Bull had not replied.

Mr Bull said detailed planning work has been ongoing on this project and he will continue to advocate for the upgrade to the major infrastructure minister.

Healthcare survey launched

Residents of Melbourne’s north-west are being urged to help improve health services in their areas by taking part in a new survey.

The anonymous survey, conducted by North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN), asks locals to share their experiences of accessing health care services.

“We’d like to hear about what’s working and what’s not,” NWMPHN chief executive Christopher Carter said.

“We want to know about when the health care system isn’t functioning as well as it should. Are some things too costly? Are some services too far away, or too difficult to reach? If you have a chronic condition such as diabetes, can you get the help and advice you need?”

The survey is a key part of a major project being conducted by the West Metro Health Service Partnership. Health Service Partnerships (HSPs) were established by the state government in 2021 to support enduring collaboration in the Victorian health system beyond the pandemic.

Three HSPs cover metropolitan Melbourne with five across rural and regional Victoria.

The West Metro HSP is made up of NWMPHN, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, the Royal Women’s Hospital, Western Health, Mercy Health and the Royal Children’s Hospital.

“By gathering this information, we and our partners will be able to see where new services are needed, or where existing services need to work more closely together,” Mr Carter said.

“By working together and with input from the community, we can can take real steps to improve the quality of care and service for everyone in the region –making us all healthier and happier.”

Responses to the survey will add valuable local-level detail to data already provided by organisations such as the Australian Bureau of Statistics and the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

Students set to colour their world

Christ the Priest Primary School in Caroline Springs has been announced as the state winner of the Haymes Paint and Keep Australia Beautiful (KAB) Paint Australia Beautiful competition.

The inaugural competition required students from across the country to design murals inspired by the environment and how they can care for it.

Christ The Priest Primary School has been

chosen as the Victoria winner and the school will receive $750 in paint and supplies from Haymes Paint to bring its mural design to life.

Visual arts teacher Audrey Buttigieg Cardona said the school community is “very excited” by the win.

“You should have heard the kids scream when I told them we won,” she said.

“They cant wait to start painting and put it up…Thatarealooksquitegreyatthemoment,

it’s going to bring some bright colours and joy and colourful ambience to the area.”

Christ The Priest Primary School will go into the running for the overall national competition, with a grand prize of $2000 up for grabs.

Voting will run once all state winners have painted their murals.

Liam McNally

The survey takes about 20 minutes to complete, and can be found at nwmphn. org.au/west-metrocommunity-hna until June 9.

Federal budget was ‘disappointing’ says Brimbank mayor

Brimbank council welcomed numerous initiatives in the 2023-24 federal budget, but says the budget falls short of providing long term security and funding for major infrastructure projects in Melbourne’s west.

The federal budget was handed down earlier this month, with several initiatives to help alleviate the cost of living, which was welcomed by the council.

The council though is concerned about the status of funding for the Melbourne Airport rail project.

Despite the federal budget’s retention of the $5 billion previously committed for the construction of the Melbourne Airport

Rail and assurances from Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development Minister Catherine King, the project has been included in the government’s 90-day review of the infrastructure pipeline which could cast doubts over delivery of this critical infrastructure development for Melbourne’s west.

The council in a statement, maintains that the Melbourne Airport Rail, which will be the first leg of the Suburban Rail Loop to be constructed, aligns with the Australian Government’s policy that infrastructure projects should be genuinely nation-building, economically sustainable and resilient to our

changing climate and calls for construction according to initial timelines.

The council’s statement also highlights the upgrades to the Calder Freeway that remain unfundedtwoyearsafterthebusinesscasewas announced, and calling for an independent assessment of the health impacts of a third runway at Melbourne Airport have been ignored.

Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire said the federal government missed an opportunity.

“The federal budget was an opportunity to invest in transformative infrastructure projectsthatcouldhavesignificantlyaddressed inequity in Melbourne’s west,” he said.

“It was especially disappointing to see the more expensive Suburban Rail loop east, which will service wealthier and more developed areas of Melbourne, take priority over the Melbourne Airport rail, which will bring transformative investment to where it’s most needed.

“Sadly, Brimbank misses out in the federal budget, so all eyes are on the coming state budget announcement. Brimbank council calls on the Victorian government to keep its promise of $5 billion towards the construction of the MAR as well as Sunshine and Albion stations, when it announces the state budget later this month.”

Art teacher Audrey Buttigieg Cardona with the students at the site of their upcoming mural. (Damjan Janevski) 335148_03.

Works underway at picnic spots

Brimbank Park’s picnic areas will soon be more enticing to sit and relax at as works are underway on upgrades to three separate areas.

The works are part of the Urban Parks Active Well Being Program, with new and upgraded visitor facilities such as picnic shelters and tables, toilets, trails, carparks, barbecues, playground equipment and signage to be installed at 18 of Melbourne’s popular urban parks.

As part of the Brimbank Park upgrades, works are being conducted at three separate picnic areas.

There will be toilet refurbishments at each of the three areas.

At picnic area A there is also work being done on three benches, five barbecues and 20 tables.

AtpicnicareaB,there’sworkonseventables, onebarbecue,upgradestothelargeshelterand a new access path.

WhileatpicnicareaCtherewillworkontwo barbecues, seven tables and two new shelters.

The general improvements to picnic areas currently underway is scheduled for completion at the end of May.

Partnership reaffirmed

The partnership between Brimbank council and Victoria University will continue to grow with the two organisations committing to continue to work together.

The two parties met on Thursday, May 11 to sign a new three-year Memorandum of Understanding to work together transparently and cooperatively for the benefit of the wider Brimbank community and Melbourne’s western region. With two of its campuses situated in Brimbank, the Sunshine Campus and the St Albans Campus, Victoria University is an integral stakeholder in the municipality.

The MOU affirms the commitment of both organisations to improving outcomes in relationtoemployment,education,community health and wellbeing, caring for country and climate action, and to building strategic partnerships to achieve impact in uplifting communities.

Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire said Victoria University is a valued partner and

important contributor to the Brimbank community, both in terms of educational opportunities and in providing important opportunities for research and collaboration for positive action.

“The Memorandum of Understanding provides Victoria University and Brimbank City Council with the opportunity to raise aspirations and combine efforts in new and mutually beneficial ways to achieve impact in uplifting communities,” he said.

Victoria University Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker they are delighted to grow their partnership with Brimbank council.

“As long-standing advocates for this region, Victoria University shares the pride in Brimbank as it is now – and in what it can become,’ he said. “Together, we are making a real and tangible impact for the benefit of the whole community as well as for our students, staff and researchers.”

The picnic shelters are scheduled for completion at the end of June, while toilet refurbishments will start in July-August and take about a month to complete.

There will also be 24 signs installed or replaced across Brimbank Park in the coming months.

Brimbank councillor Virginia Tachos, who has long advocated for improvements to the park, took to social media to announce the works.

She said this was only the start of work needed to make the most of the park.

“After over seven years of advocacy, it’s great to be able to provide greater detail on the improvements and new infrastructure being deliveredatBrimbankParkwhichisabsolutely fantastic,” she said.

“I will continue to advocate with council on the following, new masterplan for Brimbank Park, a pedestrian bridge to allow greater access for Keilor-Kealba-St Albans and surrounding suburbs by foot or cycle [and the] restoration and re-opening of the River Trail walking trail which was severely impacted by last years flood.”

Voices soar at Albion PS

Former Voice winner Lachie Gill took centre stage at Albion Primary School earlier this month.

Mr Gill visited the school as part of the Australian Children’s Music Foundation, which sets about inspiring creativity and imagination by providing weekly music education classes and instruments to disadvantaged children and youth at risk throughout Australia.

Having already provided the school with instruments, this was an opportunity for the students to have a guest at the school like never before.

Music teacher Ash De Neef said it was incredible for the students and teachers.

“It was so inspiring and exciting for the students to not only see Lachie perform and hear his story, but also to have him jump into some classes and make some music with them,” he said.

“The kids were overflowing with questions,

and they were excited and chatting about him all day after his visit!

“I was thrilled that we got to have someone so talented and well known in the music industry visit us and give the students a really clear vision of where their passion and interest in music can take them.”

Mr Gill said it’s incredible for him to give back to the next generation of budding musicians.

“My music teacher Ms Moore changed my life,” he said. “If it wasn’t for her and the music program at my school when I was young, I wouldn’t be here today chasing my dreams in the music industry.

“Maybe not all the Albion kids knew about me and my Voice story, but they were just so excited to have a musician in their school.

“They were so warm and welcoming with the biggest smiles on their faces and just wanted to know everything about me and my journey.”

Ash De Neef and Lachie Gill perform for the students. (Supplied)

VU vice-chancellor Adam Shoemaker and Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire. (Supplied)

Cop jailed for preying on women

Emily Woods, AAP

A cop who abused his position to try and have sex with vulnerable women, including some escaping family violence, will spend six months behind bars.

Brett Johnson, 42, claimed he began pursuing women he met through his work as a Victoria Police officer to boost his self-esteem after being cheated on by a former fiancee about two decades ago.

Over nine years he used private police

databases to find out personal details of vulnerable women he wanted to have sex with. These included victims of crime and two women who were seeking police help due to family violence.

Johnson would get their information off Victorian Police Law Enforcement Assistance Program (LEAP) and try to meet the women, sending them texts messages, calling or going to their homes.

He admitted 10 charges of misconduct in public office while he worked at Sunshine,

Schools vie for awards

ThreeBrimbankschoolshavebeennominated as finalists in the 2023 ResourceSmart schools awards.

The schools are three of 23 schools and 35 finalistsvyingforanawardinVictoria’slargest celebration for primary and secondary school students, teachers and school volunteers taking sustainability action.

Overnewton Anglican Community College inKeilorisafinalistinthreecategories,school volunteer of the year, community leadership school of the year (primary) and student action team of the year (primary).

The college won emerging school of the year in 2022 and the nominations show the continued work the school is doing.

Braybrook College is a finalist in three secondary school categories, community leadership, teacher of the year and curriculum leadership, having been a finalist last year.

Ardeer South Primary School is a finalist in the emerging school of the year category.

The school has built an urban forest, a

food-producing garden and orchard and a community greenhouse. Gardening sessions take place at lunchtimes, cooking the produce has become a weekly activity and any food scraps collected for compost.

Sustainability Victoria’s regions and community action director Katie Pahlow, said the ResourceSmart schools awards celebrate our young people and schools leading the way on sustainability, creating real impact for Victorian communities beyond the school gate.

This year’s winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on June 15.

Ardeer South pupils Emine, Adam, Tamai and Jake. (Supplied)

Richmond, Fawkner and Pyramid Hill police stations between 2010 and 2019. He resigned from Victoria Police in 2021 after he was charged.

Judge Liz Gaynor said the women he pursued were often frightened of him, seeking support from police at the most vulnerable period of their lives.

“You preyed upon the very people you had sworn to serve and protect,” she said.

“You may have the support of family and friends who came to you in your time of need.

These women did not, they turned to police.“ She said his “fractured“ self-esteem from an ex-partner cheating on him in “no way justifies your continuous exercise of abuse of power over many years”.

Johnson remained silent, dressed in a suit, as he was jailed for six months on Tuesday 16 May.Hewillthenhavetoperform300hoursof unpaid community work and undergo mental health treatment on a two-year community corrections order.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

Free Kinder: Enrol for 2024

Free Kinder is available for three and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services.

Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,500 each year, per child.

At kindergarten, your child will:

• learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance

• learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment

• build skills and confidence before primary school.

Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2024.

Visit: vic.gov.au/kinder

Club’s cash kick along

Sunshine Football Club is set to use the $10,000 it won from the Haymes Paint Kick For Cash Competition to help further develop the existing playing group.

Hamish Andrew made history when he become the first player to successfully win $10,000 as part of the competition which is held during breaks at Melbourne Football Club matches.

Haymes Paint chief executive Rod Walton recently attended the club to present the winning cheque.

Kangaroos president Chris Gatt said they were still yet to decide what the money would be used for.

“We are investing a lot of time, effort, and money into current programs for our existing players,”hesaid.“Whetheritbeplayerwelfare, off-field development of leadership and things of that nature.

“While we haven’t decided on an exact use of funds, I suspect it will allow us to further grow and implement some of these strategies for our whole program, from Auskick right through to our open age, senior program.”

MrWaltontravelledfromBallarattopresent the cheque and congratulate Mr Andrew.

“As a proud sponsor of the Melbourne Football Club, we recognised the positive impact that local football clubs have in communities,” he said.

“We knew that footy clubs had been doing it tough during their 2020 and 2021 season.

“I’d encourage all clubs to enter Kick For Cash and try their luck at winning. Sunshine Football Club is proof that it is possible to win the major prize.”

Details: https://www.melbournefc.com.au/ fans/competitions/haymes-kick-for-cash/’

Briefs

Sunshine death

Police have interviewed two teenage boys as part of an investigation into a fatal stabbing in Sunshine on May 18. An 18-year-old from Burnside attended a police station on Friday evening, where he was interviewed and released pending further inquiries. Police also interviewed and released a 17-year-old Caroline Springs boy who was arrested in Braybrook on Friday. Police are continuing to search for a third teenage boy believed to be involved. Police were called to Station Place about 3.45pm on Thursday, after reports a male had been stabbed. The 16-year-old Melton South boy was treated by paramedics but died at the scene. A 16-year-old Sunshine North boy was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

Concrete company charged WorkSafe has charged a concrete pumping company following the death of a worker at a St Albans construction site in May 2021. Prisbel Concrete Pumping faces one charge for failing to provide or maintain plant that was, as far as reasonably practicable, safe and without risks to health. The 40-year-old man was operating a 32-metre concrete boom pump when it collapsed and struck the back of his head, causing fatal injuries. WorkSafe alleges Prisbel failed to ensure that the machine was subject to adequate inspections and servicing before use.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building an alternative to the West Gate Bridge. The West Gate Tunnel will create better connections across our city and take thousands of trucks off local roads. We’re also building the Metro Tunnel, taking our busiest train lines through a new tunnel under the city.

Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions

Werribee

Check

Collins streets

Rod Walton and Hamish Andrew. (Supplied)

Flags fly in support of IDAHOBIT

Maribyrnong council celebrated IDAHOBIT DayatBraybrookCommunityHubonMonday, May 15, by raising the Progress Pride Flag at a flag raising ceremony.

TheInternationalDayAgainstHomophobia, Biphobia, Intersex and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT)Dayisrecognisedinternationally on May 17 each year.

Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter said it was a significant day for the community.

“Todays raising of the flag is a small symbol but nonetheless a very important one of our council’s support and commitment to the community,andtheworkwearedoingtoenact the LGBTQIA+ strategy and our action plan,” she said.

Cr Carter joined two Braybrook residents, LucyandKim, toraisethemulti-colouredflag, shouting gleefully as it went up.

Local heroes applauded

The Village Night Market has become more than just a local market, it’s also about recognising locals doing great things in the community.

Organiser Jodie Robinson decided to start having a local hero recognised at each market to share their story and help inspire the local community in Keilor.

“We want to recognise those heroes that live in the local area, live in Keilor that people might not know about.

“There’s been a really good response to these people. I don’t want to be like any other market.”

Author Paula Scott was the first local hero, with Miss Australia pageant contestant and local footballer, Abbey O’Mara the second one.

Ms Robinson said she had a few ideas for some future heroes, including some budding sports stars and possibly a local war hero.

In good news for fans of the market, Ms Robinson is now planning to run the market through the winter months after feedback from vendors and customers.

The winter markets will run on June 3 and July 1, at Keilor Bowls Club, before returning to its normal format later in the year.

Jodie Robinson and Paula Scott. (Supplied)

Top: Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter welcoming everybody to the flag raising ceremony. Top right: Braybrook community members Lucy and Kim, joined Cr Carter to raise the flag. Above: The Progress Pride Flag is now raised at full-mast at Braybrook Community Hub. Above right: Many turned out to celebrate the day which was followed by refreshments and bites in the Braybrook Community Hub. (Pictures: Jennifer Pittorino)

MY PLACE

TellusaboutyourconnectiontoBrimbank?

My connection to Brimbank comes in many forms. I’ve lived in Brimbank my entire life, attending kindergarten, primary school and high school here. I’ve represented sports teams in Brimbank and I’ve even worked here too. My childhood friends are from Brimbank and now some of them are now raising families of their own here.

What is your favourite thing about Brimbank?

Most definitely it’s the friendly people who I’ve gotten to know over the years. We’re one big community all doing our best to help each other out. I think the hardworking and welcoming people of Brimbank have created a culture that I’m incredibly proud of, and it’s one that should be celebrated.

Where do you love to go in Brimbank?

Growing up a stones throw from Brimbank Park has provided a catalogue of fond memories that I often think back to, so it’s always great to get back there. To me, it’s been the meeting place that friends and family have gathered over the years to enjoy each others company. On a clear day, when there’s no training (usually during the summer months)

I also love taking our dog for a walk down to Joe Brown Oval for a stroll across the luscious green grass at sunset. There‘s something Incredibly soothing about watching the sun set over a peaceful Keilor Village.

You’re involved with Heart of the Nation. How did you get involved with that?

In January 2021, I suffered a Sudden Cardiac Arrest playing indoor soccer. I was 24 at

the time, and had no pre-existing health conditions. I was saved by off-duty police officer, Todd, who commenced CPR within a minuteofmycollapse.Hisquickthinkingand

effective CPR is the reason I’m still here today. The survival rate for out of hospital sudden cardiac arrests is less that 10 per cent After realising how lucky I was to be alive, I started

thinking about the lessons I could take from my experience. All that thought culminated into me writing an article detailing my story, and my key takeaways. The cause of my event is still unknown after every test under the sun, highlighting that it really can happen to anyone at anytime. Shortly after sharing my article, Former Yellow Wiggle and recent cardiac arrest survivor, Greg Page got in touch. Not long after his cardiac arrest, Greg founded Heart of The Nation, a charity on a mission to help raise the survival rate from Sudden Cardiac Arrest. It wasn’t long before I was on board, helping Greg and all involved with Heart of the Nation with their mission.

What are you hoping to achieve with the Heart of the Nation?

Survival rates for Sudden Cardiac Arrest are incredibly low. Ninety per cent of the roughly 30,000 people who suffer Sudden Cardiac Arrests in Australia each year don’t survive. That’s about 27,000 deaths each year. For perspective, there were 1,123 road crash deaths in Australia in 2021. I’m not for a minute suggesting that road safety isn’t an issue, it is. What I’m saying is that there is a lot that can be done to increase the survival rate of sudden cardiac arrests. They can happen to any, one at any time regardless of age or health status. I’m the perfect example of that. A sudden cardiac arrest is a death sentence if untreated, but if it’s treated correctly and quickly, people have a higher chance at returning to their normal lives. Through Heart of the Nation, I want to simply help increase the survival rates of cardiac arrest because we all deserve the second chance I was lucky enough to get.

A near death experience has shaped the way that Jesse Amato goes about his life. He chats with Tara Murray about growing up in Brimbank and using his experiences to help other people.

(Damjan Janevski) 332666_07

Job fair takes off at Tullamarine

By Zoe Moffatt

Melbourne Airport held its job fair on May 18, with thousands of residents across Victoria attending to learn about the businesses and positions on offer.

With more than 40 airport-based businesses on the lookout for staff, approximately 1500 job seekers flooded to the airport with their sights set on employment in customer service, cabin crew, transport, security, hospitality and retail.

Nikki Ala lives in Bacchus Marsh and attended the job fair with her father, who is also on the hunt for work.

“I worked in the ground crew at the Avalon Airshow … [and] I’m training to be a commercial pilot,” Ms Ala said.

“I’m looking to expand my aviation career.”

Not-for-profit organisation Settlement Services International (SSI) attended the event to gather information and job opportunities for refugees.

SSI employment solutions officer Frank Genel said he found the fair helpful.

“I am here to listen to the employers and wherever they need help … and ask all the right questions,” Mr Genel said.

“I will take all this information to the office and find the right employees for them and the right services.

“We have clients in the west and the north [of Melbourne] as well … [with experience in] food handling, packaging [for example].”

Two siblings from the northern suburbs attended the job fair together to see what positions were available.

Hirdesh Chand said he recently finished his degree, while his sister Shiveshni Chand said she was looking for part-time work while she completed her studies.

“I just finished a bachelor of space science [and] I want to see what’s out there,”

Mr Chand said. “[I want to] find opportunities and see where I want to land.”

Craigieburn local Tristen Kaman also came to the job fair with his father and said the

airport was in a convenient location from his house.

“[I am] looking for a career change and … Dad dragged me along,” Mr Kaman said. “I’m open to anything … [and] there’s lots of

different opportunities here.”

As the second largest employment precinct in the state, Melbourne Airport lists ongoing jobs on its joblink website.

Details: https://bit.ly/3MiVsCd

James Campbell

Bunyip Hotel Cavendish, Grampians

The region’s growers and producers bring me incredible produce to cook with at the Bunyip Hotel. I plan my menus while fishing at first light, thinking about what’s in season and how I can use these ingredients to create something special. History, people and nature come together at the Bunyip – that’s why I love it.

The

Main: Qantas employees Maddie Psaila, Ben Hallam and Christina Michelin at the Melbourne Airport Job Fair. Right top: AFP Inspector Judy Goldsmith. Right centre: Frank Genel works with the not-for-profit organisation Settlement Services International. Above, left to right: Programmed Skilled Workforce staff member Lili Pham; Nikki Ala attended the job fair with her father; Client Yashika Khattar chats with Rex Airlines airport manager Joanne Fletcher; Delaware North Operations Manager Nicole Child talking with client Henry Chan. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski and Zoe Moffatt) 335676

Mayor’s message

Our thoughts are with the students, their families, the school community and all impacted by last week’s bus incident on Exford Road.

To all the first responders, emergency services personnel, health care workers and all those providing support, we express our gratitude. We were all deeply saddened to learn of the serious injuries.

I recently visited Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve to check on the progress of the new community and sports pavilion and upgrades to Oval 2. It was great to see the project taking shape with the first floor concrete slab poured and the steel walls up. The turf has also been laid so it can start to establish.

By the end of 2023, Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve will have a new multipurpose community pavilion, a redeveloped oval, new cricket nets, electronic scoreboard, more car parking and new access road.

Community sports is such an important part of our lives. Good local community infrastructure delivers what our community needs to stay active and connected.

This project is being delivered by Melton City Council in partnership with the Victorian Government.

Last week, I met with the Hon Kristy McBain, Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories and Sam Rae Member for Hawke, to outline Council’s advocacy priorities, including the pressing need to deliver the business case for upgrading the Western Highway. Our close working relationship with the state and federal government means we can deliver the infrastructure our community needs. Feel free to contact me about Watts Ward or Council related issues on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au or visit my Facebook page at: facebook.com/Cr.LaraCarli

Community Satisfaction Survey

Our ninth annual community satisfaction survey is about to begin with our survey takers from Metropolis Research knocking on doors throughout June.

Our survey reveals many important views held by the community – which

in turn helps guide our decisionmaking for the year to come.

Council looks forward to learning more about what our community thinks we are doing well, and what they’d like to see improved in the future.

To learn more about the survey, visit melton.vic.gov.au/satisfactionsurvey

Mount Atkinson community hub open day

Mount Atkinson Children’s and Community Centre at Clara Avenue in Truganina will host a community open day with arts, crafts, food, entertainment and more from 10am to 1pm on Saturday 27 May.

Learn more at melton.vic.gov.au/MtAtkinsonOpening

Coburn Ward with Cr Bob Turner

It came as no surprise when the latest release of Australian Bureau of Statistics data showed the City of Melton was once again Australia’s fastest growing municipality.

With an estimated population of around 192,865 (June 2022), our City grew by 6.42 per cent in 2021, which is equal to 72 families moving in, and 58 babies being born here, every week.

In view of these figures, Council will continue to advocate to the State and Federal Governments on behalf of our community to ensure we receive the quality road, health, and education infrastructure we not only need, but deserve.

Our community has had a tough week, following the tragic school bus crash in Eynesbury. We are thinking of everyone dealing with the aftermath of the accident and thank

passers-by, and emergency responders, for their courage at the time of the incident.

I’m looking forward to celebrating the 50th anniversary of Melton SES this Saturday. What would we do without these dedicated, and brave volunteers? A heartfelt thank you to everyone who gives so freely of their time to help others in their hour of need.

Finally, good luck to the participants of Council’s Hot House project who will participate in their Pitch Graduation this week. I look forward to seeing your business ideas flourish and thrive.

I am available to meet with residents most Saturday mornings from 9am, by appointment. Please contact Barb McKenzie on 9747 7200 to book a time, or contact me on 0412 584 224 or bob.turner@melton.vic.gov.au

STAY INFORMED

Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au

facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

Community Achievement Awards

Do you know someone who is doing something amazing within our city? Nominations are now open for the Melton City Council’s Community Achievement Awards.

Whether it’s someone who encouragescommunityparticipation, breaks down barriers or readily helps others, nominating them is a really special way to say thank you.

To nominate someone or to find out more about the Community Achievement Awards, visit melton.vic.gov.au/ CommunityAchievementAwards

Fair Go 4 Youth

Council has just launched our Fair Go 4 Youth program to make extra-curriculars more affordable for more families so every child can learn, grow and reach their full potential.

The program covers up to $400 per year in registration costs for someone aged 8 to 16 to attend clubs like AFL, baseball, Scouts and Guides, dance and martial arts, and even cooking and theatre hobby groups.

More details are available at melton.vic.gov.au/fairgo4youth

Mayor Cr Lara Carli

Deputy Mayor Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Justine Farrugia

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Kathy Majdlik

Cr Sophie Ramsey Cr Bob Turner Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

Cr Lara Carli

New help for dementia patients

By Christopher Carter, Chief Executive, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network

There is a well known saying about how it takes a village to raise a child.

We could suggest that it also takes a village to properly care for people affected by dementia, but while everyone is happy to talk about looking after the young, the realities of taking care of older people are all too often spoken of, if at all, in a whisper.

Dementia is a progressively devastating condition that affects more than 400,000 Australians.LatestfiguresfromtheAustralian Institute of Health and Welfare reveal that it is the leading cause of death for women and the second leading cause for men (after heart disease).

As the condition develops, people with dementia need many different types of care and support to ensure that their lives continue to be comfortable and dignified.

Only about one-third of people with the condition are looked after in an aged care facility, or by professional carers in their own home. The remainder rely almost totally on the support and help of family members and friends.

These are acts of love – of course they are – but they can also be exhausting, frustrating and saddening, extracting a huge toll on the carers as well as the cared.

Help, for people with dementia and those who love them, is available from many different organisations, in many different ways – but finding it, even knowing where to look, is often difficult.

Recognising this, North Western Melbourne PrimaryHealthNetworkhasbuiltMelbourne’s first Dementia Directory – an easy-to-use online resource with which carers can find all

sorts of help and local community support.

The directory is designed to complement information available through My Aged Care and the NDIS.

This might be social groups or outings for people with dementia, support groups from particular faiths or among communities united by common languages. It contains information translated into Italian, Greek, Vietnamese and Simplified Chinese.

Importantly too the Dementia Directory

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

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

lists organisations that provide help, respite and support for carers – so the people who spend so much time looking after people they love can get a short break, find some help or even just swap stories with others doing the same thing.

The Dementia Directory covers almost all of Melbourne. It is a joint venture between us and our colleagues over at Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network. Over the next while, we hope to see it grow to cover services

and supports in even more areas. The directory can be found at dementiadirectory.org.au

Andmoreresourcesandinformationcanbe foundonPreciousTime,ourwebsitededicated to people with life-limiting conditions, their families, friends, and carers. You can find it at precioustime.org.au

Because, indeed, it takes a village to care for people with dementia – and now it’s just a bit easier to find some of those villagers.

Dementia Directory is an online resource where carers cna find help and local community support. (iStock)

Whistle blows on ump shortage

Sporting contests from the grassroots to the elite can’t happen with umpires and referees. But with both in short supply across many sporting codes, Cade Lucas took a closer look at what is turning people off officiating matches .

Like many migrant families who arrive in Melbourne looking to meet people and make friends, the Lush family were recommended to give the local religion of Aussie rules football a try.

“My daughter and son started doing it and then after a month or so my wife started and then maybe a couple of weeks to a month later, I got in and started doing it,” said Wayne Lush of how his family became hooked on the sport soon after relocating from New Zealand at the beginning of 2022.

“It started last year and then by the end of last season we were all doing it.”

This rapid conversion of rugby mad Kiwi’s to Australia’s Indigenous code is even more remarkable considering Wayne, wife Jacinda and children Chaise and Ezabella don’t actually play footy.

They umpire it.

AllfourLushfamilymembersareboundary umpires in the Western Region Football League, the result of a Facebook post asking for recommendations on nearby sports clubs and activities.

someone does six games a weekend and in every one of those games the players have a go at the ref, are they going to wanna come back the next weekend

“They’re fantastic for us,” said WRFL umpiring director Steve Keating of the Lush family before adding this telling observation: “We’d love to have more of them.”

While grateful for the unexpected boost, Keating knows it doesn’t change the reality that he has less whistle-blowers than he needs.

“It’s not getting worse but still at a critical stage,” Keating said.

“We haven’t reached critical mass to fill all our games,” said Keating of the shortage which is particularly prevalent among field umpires, resulting in many reserves games being officiated by club volunteers.

A minor consolation for the WRFL is that it is hardly Robinson Crusoe in this regard. The entiresportisaffected,withtheAFLreporting a shortage of 5000 umpires nationwide and outgoing chief executive Gil McLachlan admitting the issue had ‘gotten away from us.’

And while AFL’s popularity in Victoria and the sheer number of umpires it requires for each game (anywhere from six to 10 depending on level) makes it the most notable example, finding people to officiate any sport has become a problem whether they’re called umpires, referees or whatever else.

“Numbers were around 500 which was leaving a lot of games without a referee,” said Football Victoria’s referring director Tony Peart of the situation he inherited when he took on the role two years ago.

Numbers have since doubled to more than 1200, with Peart hopeful of reaching 2000 in the near future.

While a vast improvement, it’s still well short of the ideal amount for the state’s largest participation sport.

“We’d like it to be around the 5000 figure, that’s the dream figure,” Peart said.

Proving cold weather isn’t the reason, cricket is also affected.

Mercantile Cricket Association Umpires president Paul Grant said the shortage had increased the burden on existing umpires.

“Some older umpires are finding it challenging to double up on Saturday and Sunday,” said Grant, who also umpires Aussie Rules.

The reasons are many and varied and as

Keating points out, aren’t new.

“It’s always been a challenge attracting senior field umpires,” he said of a role where the reward for a good performance is being ignored, but a bad one can bring torrents of abuse and worse.

As with most issues in 2023 though, the spectre of COVID-19 looms large.

Grant said the flow on effects of border closures were still being felt in cricket umpiring.

“We rely on international students and while they’re filtering back, there’s still not as many as before,” said Grant of students from the Indian subcontinent whose passion for cricket leads them to officiate it as well as play.

He said a broader problem though was the way the pandemic had altered people’s interests and outlook..

“The overriding issue is people have moved on post-COVID.

People have just thought “I’ve had enough of umpiring, I’m onto something else.”

“I think we lead busier lives as well” added Steve Keating, pointing to issues of work life-balance that saw people walk away from umpiring pre-pandemic but which have been exacerbated since.

For Peart, the post-COVID environment had exacerbated the other long-time scourges of umpires and referees: abuse and even

violence.

“That’s what the overall global studies show,” said Peart of what refereeing bodies overseas had found and what is considered a societal problem not just a sporting one.

Recent months have seen a number of ugly incidents involving umpires and referees make the news, with last month’s assault on a football referee in Sydney that left him with a broken jaw and the perpetrator remanded in custody, the nadir.

While concerning, Peart said the problem wasn’t so much the isolated incidents of violence, but the long-term build up of abuse and disrespect.

“If someone does six games a weekend and in every one of those games the players have a go at the ref, are they going to wanna come back the next weekend?” he said.

Football Victoria is trying to counteract this by investing in welfare and support for referees, including an app where they can rate their interactions with both teams and identify those more likely to cause problems.

“It (the app) allows us to target the problem and work positively with the club,” Peart said.

Keating said while violence and misbehaviourmakesithardtoretainumpires, on odd occasions it can aid recruitment too.

He said after recently witnessing an assault onaplayerinareservesgame,anex-footballer

contacted the WRFL and has since become an umpire.

“Through all the chaos, we got a recruit out of that,” Keating said.

As for long-term solutions, all point to something that in the short-term has been considered a problem: the rise of women’s sport.

While the extra fixtures have stretched resources even further, women’s sport also presents a huge source of new umpires and referees for both female and male sport.

Keating said 50 female women umpires had joined the WRFL, while for Football Victoria, the upcoming FiFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand presents an unprecedented recruiting tool, with two Victorians Kate Jacewicz and Joanna Charaktis among those officiating.

It’sachancePeartisdeterminednottomiss.

“We’re looking forward to building on their legacy.”

To become a football referee visit: https:// www.footballvictoria.com.au/resources/ referees/become-a-referee

To become a WRFL umpire visit:https:// www.wrfl.com.au/umpires/

To become a cricket umpire with the Mercantile Cricket Association go to: http://www.mca.asn.au/content. aspx?file=2%7C10094v

‘‘ If

’’ - Tony Peart

Main: A young Football Victoria referee being mentored. Above: WRFL boundary umpires Jacinda Lush and daughter Ezabella. (Pictures: Supplied)

Right: WRFL umpires training at Hamner Reserve in Seddon (top), and the WRFL umpire club rooms at Hamner Reserve. (Pictures: Cade Lucas)

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

9 years ago

May 20, 2014

The former Mowbray College site will reopen as a high school next year, the owner has revealed. Intaj Khan, a Wyndham businessman and councillor, bought the site of the former college in 2012 for $6.7 million.

7 years ago

May 24, 2016

Dog, cat and rabbit bites accounted for almost 140 admissions to Western Health’s emergency departments over two years, according to a new research report.

5 years ago

May 22, 2018

The number of discarded syringes in Brimbank is raising alarm bells. In the 2016-17 financial year the council picked up 559 syringes discarded in parks, reserves and public places. In just seven months for the 2017-18 financial year that number has almost tripled, with 1443 syringes picked up.

GRUFFALO PLUSH & BOOKS

1 year ago

May 24, 2022

The state government has been criticised for failing to include significant funding for Calder Freeway upgrades in this year’s state budget, despite predictions it will become Melbourne’s second most congested road by 2031.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR

Sunshine Repair Cafe

Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Cafe in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.

■ sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082

Tree planting

Come and participate in family friendly activities to celebrate Reconciliation Week at the Cary Street tree planting ceremony. There will also be family friendly activities with a free barbecue and drinks. The event runs on May 27 from 12.30pm-2.30pm at Cary Street Pocket Playground, 86 Cary Street, Sunshine North.

Craft sessions.

Rainmaker Craft Learn about the ancient musical instruments used by Australian First Nations people. These instruments were thought to bring rain to areas experiencing drought. Sessions will be held at Sydenham and Sunshine libraries on May 30 and June 1 for children aged five to 12 years.

■ https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ news-and-events/reconciliation-weekbrimbank

Dreamtime Night Light

Come and listen to First Nations stories and create your own Dreamtime night light at Brimbank libraries on May 31. For children between five and 12 years old.

■ https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ news-and-events/reconciliation-weekbrimbank

First Nations colouring

Come and participate in a collaborative Library Art Display to celebrate Reconciliation Week across Brimbank libraries. Colouring and puzzle page activities are occurring every day between May 27 and June 3.

■ https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ news-and-events/reconciliation-weekbrimbank

First Nations Craft

Come and participate in a range of First Nations craft activities to celebrate Reconciliation Week. Activities will occur on June 1 at the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre and Sunshine Leisure Centre, between 10am and noon.

■ https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ news-and-events/reconciliation-weekbrimbank

The Sunshine Club

Set in 1946, the joyful and acclaimed musical The Sunshine Club, tells the story of Aboriginal soldier Frank Doyle, who has a strong desire to change things for the better by setting up The Sunshine Club. It was a place where all people are welcome to come together, laugh, romance, and dance the night away. The Sunshine Club will be at the Bowery Theatre on June 8 from 7pm.

■ https://creativebrimbank.com.au/ the-sunshine-club

Card games

Love playing the card game 500? Card games are played every Monday from 7pm -10pm at the Sunshine RSL offices, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine

■ Leisa, 0425 768 808

Vaccine hub

A new Sunday vaccine service will run at IPC Health’s Deer Park GP clinic. The clinic

will be open every Sunday as a walk-in vaccination hub from 10am - 2pm. No appointments are needed and clients without Medicare cards are welcome. COVID-19 booster vaccines, Novavax, Pfizer first does for children older than five and MPox for monkeypox are available.

■ 0490 745 436 or vaccinations@ipchealth.com.au

Keilor Evening View Club

The Keilor Evening View Club meets at 6.30pm on the first Tuesday of each month at The Atrium at Taylors Lakes Hotel. Come along and enjoy a meal and fun night with friendly

■ Robyn 0425387880

Palliative volunteers needed Mercy Palliative Care is looking for volunteers to visit palliative care patients in their homes to offer social support.

■ 9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au

Deer Park Lions Club

Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park.

■ Michael, 0417 307 572

Sunshine Community Brass

Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays from 7.30pm.

■ Andrew, 0419 444 620

St Albans senior citizens

St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-1.30pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day.

■ Roma, 0435 991 064

Men’s healthy cooking workshop

To celebrate men’s health week, Braybrook Community Hub is holding a free cooking session to make pasta or pizza. This is an opportunity for men to partake in a healthy and fun workshop and share a healthy meal together. Friday, June, 16 10am-12.30pm at 107 - 139 Churchill Avenue, Braybrook.

■ 9188 5800

Thai Vegan Cooking Workshop

Come along and create a deeply nourishing soup. Garnish with cilantro and crispy mung bean sprouts for a delicious meal you’ll want to make again. You will get to sit down and enjoy a delicious lunch together.

Friday, June 23, 10am-12.30pm, $20 at the Braybrook Community Hub, 107 - 139 Churchill Avenue, Braybrook ■ 9188 5800

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/

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

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 meets at 10am on the second Wednesday of each month, at the Melton Country Club and are welcoming new members.

■ Diane, 0438 611 552

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Steven Szrenko who found a “rare and unique” (round) chicken egg. (Damjan Janevski)

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

No. 7 954 9 125 684 17

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Husks of corn (5)

4 Workers

9 Support (7)

10 Of sufficient quality (2,2,3)

31 679 425 1 273 1

2 Closest galaxy (9)

3 Public assembly (5)

4 Voter (7)

5 Former German state (7)

6 Social exclusion (9)

7 Discharge in disgrace (5)

11 Those sharing a house (9)

12 Edgar – Poe (5)

13 Exclamation of surprise (3)

14 Body of water to the East of Italy (8,3)

16 Not belonging to a time period (11)

19 Male sheep or goat (3)

20 Follow as consequence (5)

22 Speed of pulse (9)

25 Avoiding contact with others (7)

26 Print process

27 Complementary item (9)

28 Mystics (5)

DOWN

1 Understandable (5)

5178 456 7 29 7

easy 35 2 48 7

8 Bully (9)

13 Central American country (9)

DECODER WORDFIT

71 5 8 264 1832

hard

65 82 17 9 64 8

medium 37 6 29 4

28 3 54 2 91 85

1 14

2 15

3 16

4 17

5 18

6 19

7 20

8 21

9 22

10 23

11 24

12 25

893614275

561872394

147596832 786925143

638241957 354168729

472359618

219437586

269735481

817952643

623874519

354128976 482397165

178469352 591246738

easy medium hard

945613827

736581294

653214978

539642781

127389546

925783461 318427695

491768352 964531827

782953164 275896413

846175239

29

T D S G D 19 words: Good ABOVE AHEAD ALIVE AMONG AROMA ASIDE AURAL AVOWS BOATS CLOVE COMET COWED DICES DONOR DROLL EDGES EERIE FONTS GOUGE GREEK

words: HEAVE HOSTS INANE INLET ISLES IVORY MATTE MOTHS NOTES OOZED OPTIC OZONE RIVET SCOPE SEEDS SLATE SNORE SOAKS SPEAR SPEED

good 39 STEPS SWEAT TONIC TYING VENUE 6 LETTERS CEDARS DETACH EDGIER STEREO 7 LETTERS COMFORT DECLINE ROOMIER

12 345678910111213

SEARING SEASIDE TROOPER 8 LETTERS ARMOURED DISALLOW DISEASED HAMPERED 11 LETTERS COMMISERATE VACATIONING

guess, guest, guide, guided, guides, guise, guises, gusset, gust, gusted, gusts, guts, issue, issued, situs, stud, studied, studies, studs, sued, sues, suet, suit, suite, suited, suits, tissue, tugs, used, uses

1415 1617181920212223242526 M Y W D V P C B K Z X N O H I E S U J L G T F Q A R 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

disgust, DISGUSTED, disuse, disused, duet, dust, dusted, dusts, etui,

26-05-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

No. 134

K D B V S A N E L E A E B A K E D A B O V E S L A I N T E L L S E R A S E U

2 What was the debut album of UK band Arctic Monkeys?

3 Joan of Arc lived in which century?

4 Which Chinese city is further north: Beijing or Shanghai?

5 In what year did the West Coast Eagles play their first AFL match?

6 What is the most abundant metallic element found on Earth?

7 The name of which Adelaide suburb is a palindrome?

8 Scampi is a dish prepared from the tails of what?

9 What is the world's driest continent after Antarctica?

10 Jada Pinkett Smith (pictured) provides the voice of which character in the Madagascar film franchise?

13 26 QR ANSWERS: 1. b) baseball player 2. Whatever NotI’mWhatThat’sAm,ISayPeople 3. 15th 4. Beijing 5. 1987 6. Aluminium 7. Glenelg 8. Langoustine (lobster) 9. Australia 10. Gloria

No. 134

No. 134

No. 134

ANY

TILE COAT

General Notices

06/06/2023

The Contact Officer is: Candy Chan, (9249 4598)

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority. Any comments received will be placed on the electronic file associated with this application and will be available for inspection.

An objection must be in writing and sent to the Brimbank City Council either:

• Online at www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/forms/planning-objectiononline-form

• Email info@brimbank.vic.gov.au

• By post to PO Box 70, Sunshine, Vic, 3020

• In person at Brimbank Community and Civic Centre, 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine Objections must include details of the application you are objecting to, your contact details and the reasons for the objection. If you do object, the responsible authority will tell you its decision.

•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.

Springs Boulevard

• CAROLINE SPRINGS Professionals Caroline Springs RE Shop 16, 218-222 Caroline Springs Boulevard

• CAROLINE SPRINGS Brad Teal Real Estate Shop 4, 242-244 Caroline Springs Boulevard

• CAROLINE SPRINGS Ray White Real Estate Shop 8, 234 Caroline Springs Boulevard

• CAROLINE SPRINGS CS Square Centre

29-35 Lake Street

• DEER PARK Deer Park Club

780 Ballarat Road

• DEER PARK Bells Real Estate

813a Ballarat Road

• DEER PARK Biggin and Scott Real Estate

817a Ballarat Road

• DEER PARK Comm Unity Plus - Community Neighbourhood Centre 822-824 Ballarat Road

• DEER PARK Foodworks 803 Ballarat Road

• DEER PARK Cellarbrations Liquor Store

809 Ballarat Road

• DEER PARK Australia Post Office 827a Ballarat Road

• DEER PARK Deer Park IGA

8 Hatchlands Drive

• DEER PARK Brimbank Shopping Centre Cnr Neale Road & Station Road

• DEER PARK Derrimut Village Shopping Centre Foleys Road

• DEER PARK Coles Supermarket Foleys Road (Derrimut Village Shopping Centre)

• DEER PARK Deer Park Library 4 Neale Road

• DEER PARK Burnham Real Estate

93 Station Road

• DELAHEY Calder Real Estate 10/350 Taylors Road

• DELAHEY IGA Delahey 260 Taylors Road (Delahey Village Shopping Centre)

• DELAHEY Delahey Community Centre 80 Copperfield Drive

• DERRIMUT Sunshine Golf Club

475 Mt Derrimut Road

• DERRIMUT YPA Estate Agents Shop 9, 20 Mt Derrimut Road

• FOOTSCRAY Frank Trimboli Real Estate 169 Barkly Street

• FOOTSCRAY Wards Newsagency

100 Nicholson Street

• HILLSIDE Foodworks Hillside

49-69 Wattle Valley Drive

• HILLSIDE Parkwood Green Community Centre 88 Catherine Drive

• HILLSIDE Hillside Neighbourhood House

Recreation Reserve

• KEILOR Brad Teal Woodards

684 Old Calder Highway

• KEILOR Keilor Community Hub (Council Office ) 704b Old Calder Highway

• KEILOR Keilor Newsagent

700 Old Calder Highway

• KEILOR Keilor Retirement Village

868 Old Calder Highway Service Road

• KEILOR DOWNS Centro Shopping Centre

80 Taylors Road

• KEILOR PARK Star Weekly Office Unit 6/1-9 Thomson Road

• KEILOR PARK Frank’s Supermarket

• KEILOR PARK Ferguson Plarre Bakehouse Shop 32, 40 Keilor Park Drive

• KINGS PARK Westvale Community Centre

Kings Road

• MELTON Melton Shire Offices

• MELTON Harrison Hyundai

High Street

• MELTON Melton Toyota 143-147

Airport health ‘concerns’

NORTH Malaga Real Estate

3/23 Suffolk Road

• SUNSHINE WEST Morgan’s Super IGA Supermarket 475 Fitzgerald Road

• SUNSHINE WEST Bottler Sunshine West Drive in Liquor 79 Glengala Road

• SUNSHINE WEST West Sunshine Community Centre 25 Kermeen Street

• SUNSHINE WEST Coles Supermarket 136 The Avenue

• SYDENHAM Natalie Hutchins MP Shop 11, 28a Hume Drive (Aqua Gardens Convenience Store)

• SYDENHAM YPA Estate Agents Ground Floor, 15-17 Overton Lea Boulevard

• SYDENHAM O’Brien Real Estate 17b Overton Overton Lea Boulevard

• TAYLORS HILL Taylors Hill Land Sales Cnr Taylors & Gourlay Roads

• TAYLORS HILL Watervale Shopping Centre 2-14 Calder Park Drive

• TAYLORS LAKES Taylors Lakes Lotto Shop 8 3 Melton Highway

• TAYLORS LAKES Watergardens Hotel 431 Kings Road

• TAYLORS LAKES YPA Estate Agents Shop 5, 399 Melton Highway (Watergardens Shopping Centre)

• TAYLORS LAKES Watergardens Shopping Centre 399 Melton Highway

• TAYLORS LAKES Centrelink Watergardens 1/399 Melton Highway (Watergardens Town Centre)

308 GT 1.2-litre turbo-petrol five-door hatch: $43,990

308 GT Premium 1.2-litre turbo-petrol five-door hatch: $48,990

308 GT Premium 1.2-litre turbo-petrol five-door wagon: $48,990

308 GT Sport PHEV: 1.6-litre turbo-petrol/ electric hybrid five-door hatch: $64,990

SPECIFICATIONS

Peugeot 308 GT Sport PHEV: 1.6-litre turbo-petrol/electric hybrid five-door hatch

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

Plug-in for a sharp performance

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Peugeot’s GT Sport Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)

hatchback has become the fourth model to join the French carmaker’s 308 compact range. It joinstheGThatch,GTPremiumhatchandGT Premium wagon petrol variants.

First sold here in 2008, the 308 has never seriously challenged comparable models from Japan or South Korea for sales, but those loyal to the French brand have always loved it for its style, comfort and handling.

Thenew308PHEVisPeugeot’sthirdplug-in petrol-electric hybrid, joining the 3008 GT SportSUVand508FastbackGTwithtwomore settoarrivelaterthisyear-the2008smallSUV and 508 Sportwagon.

Also coming later in 2023 will be Peugeot’s first fully electric vehicles, the e-Partner small van and e-2008 compact SUV.

Styling

We love the looks of the latest 308 starting at the front where a large, intricate grille flanked by LED Matrix headlights and claw-shaped daytime running lights.

The 308 is the first Peugeot model to feature the latest iteration of the iconic Peugeot lion badge sitting in the centre of the grille as well as on the front side panels, boot lid and in the centre of the eye-catching black alloy 18-inch wheels.

The rear has also been given a serious makeover with tri-segment tail lights on either side and the lion-claw in the centre of each.

The battery charging socket is at the rear of the passenger side.

Powertrain

308 GT Sport PHEV combines a 1.6-litre 132 kW/250Nm 1.6-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine with an 81kW electric motor for combined power and torque outputs of 165kW and 360Nm.

Itisintegratedwithane-EAT8transmission,

which for this application has the traditional torqueconverterreplacedwithawet,multi-disc clutch.

As with the other 308 variants the GT Sport PHEV is front-wheel-drive.

The 12.4kWh Li-ion battery with 100kW of battery power and 3.7 kW onboard charger provides a WLTP test range of 60km in electric-only driving. Fuel tank capacity is 40 litres.

Three driving modes are available: Electric, Hybrid and Sport.

The 308 GT Sport PHEV comes as standard with a mode two charging cable, supplied with the vehicle at time of delivery. The on-board charger unit restricts the accepted charger to a capacity of 3.7kW.

Using a domestic power socket with a 2.3kW single-phase 10A charger, the battery will be charged in around 5.5 hours. With a home

charging station such as a Wallbox this will reduce to about 3.5 hours.

Safety

There’s a comprehensive list of safety features across the entire 308 range. Highlights include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, active cruise control with Stop & Go function, forward collision warning, long-range blind spot detection,rearcrosstrafficalert,lanedeparture warning with unmarked road edge detection, advanceddriverinattentionalert,speedlimiter function, tyre pressure warning and two Isofix child seat mounts.

GT Premium and GT Sport PHEV add active lane positioning assist while the PHEV gets Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) which generates sound when the car is travelling at low speed to alert pedestrians.

When tested by ANCAP in November 2022 the absence of a front centre airbag, which is a relatively new feature, led to 308 getting a four-star rating.

Infotainment

The infotainment system features satellite navigation, wireless smartphone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, two front and two rear USB sockets, wireless phone mirroring, voice recognition, with Peugeot iConnect and the myPeugeot app.

Like so many recent new vehicles, far too many features, including climate control, need to be accessed through the touchscreen with the driver’s attention inevitably being taken away from the road ahead.

There is a power and volume knob for the audio system and there are short-cuts through a smaller horizontal screen called i-Toggles - but drivers will need to spend a lot of time learning how to access the various features.

Driving Peugeos have always been among our favourite

drivingcarsandtheinstanttorquefromthe308

PHEV further enhances that enjoyment. It’s great fun to drive both around town and in the hilly terrain segment of our rural drive route while it cruises effortlessly on the motorway.

While the PHEV’s battery adds around 230kg to overall weight over its petrol-only siblings it can still get from zero to 100km/h more than two seconds faster at 7.5 seconds. The ride is relatively firm but not uncomfortable while steering is light and direct.

Using the outdated NEDC test procedure Peugeot lists fuel consumption at 1.3L/100km forthe308PHEV.Theresultisbasedonstarting with the battery fully charged, travelling the claimed maximum distance in EV mode (60km) before automatically switching to hybrid mode for the remainder of the 100km trip.

The anomaly in the system is that, after travelling 100km the only way to repeat such low fuel usage would be to stop and fully recharge the battery before continuing.

During three separate tests the best battery-only distance we could achieve was 52km.

With the battery fully-charged we covered 100km using 3.4L/100km. Although that’s nearly double the listed figure it’s still pretty good. However, once the battery is flat, and running in normal hybrid mode including battery regeneration, we averaged a less-impressive 5.6L/100km.

Summing up

As enjoyable as the Peugeot 308 PHEV is to drivethebiggestproblemisitsprice.At$64,990 plus on-roads it’s between $16,000 and $23,000 dearer than its petrol-only siblings.

Do the sums and it’s very hard to financially justify spending that sort of money, but no doubt dyed-in-the wool environmentallyfocused Peugeot enthusiasts will be willing to do so.

Peugeot 308 PHEV combines great looks with sharp performance. (Pictures: Supplied)

The Dragons motivated to stay in the top four

The buy-in from the Sunshine Heights playing group is one of the key reasons for the side’s strong start to the Western Region Football League division 3 season.

After losing in round one to Albanvale, the Dragons have won their next three games to sit in the top four.

Coach Colby Blyth said he couldn’t have asked for much more from the playing group so far.

“The commitment from the players has been amazing,” he said.

“They want to be better and emphasising putting in more effort.

“It’s really noticeable that it has sunk in with the younger players who understand that they want to be better and want to spend more time and more effort doing that.

“I’m extremely happy.”

Another area the Dragons have improved is on the scoreboard, having put up some big scores already.

Blyth says that comes back to the defensive pressure.

“The pressure on the ball handler has definitely improved,” he said. “It’s helping create more scoring opportunities and we have

a fair few avenues to goal. The more scoring options the better.”

Blyth said the group was keen to get better

and it was something they know will occur throughout the season.

Having added a number of players in the off

season they always knew that it was going to take some time to settle.

“Gelling will take some time,” he said. “To get the right mix and the players on the same level.

“There’s still a lot of work to do, but it’s a really good position for us.

“We’re winning games of footy and the improvement to come for me is really exciting for the group and the club.

The Dragons faced Tarneit on the Saturday, after deadline.

It comes after a week off with the bye. Blyth said it came at perfect timing.

“We had a few guys with a few niggles,” he said. “The bye worked in our favour.

“The whole fixture is good for us. We now have six games and then a bye.”

WithfixturesagainsttheSunsandAlbanvale, the two top teams in the next two weeks, the Dragons are going to get a better indication of where they sit.

Blyth said they were keen for the challenge.

“We want to see where we are at,” he said. “Roundonewasagoodchallengeforus…Ifeel like we have a bit more of a platform now that we can challenge them.

Sports shorts

Bowls

Deer Park has added Matty Baus to its squad for next season’s Bowls Victorian weekend pennant premier division squad. Baus, who has represented Australia, will add to the Parkers squad for their title defence. Head of bowls operations Mark Casey said having Baus would be a huge asset for them, as he will be available for every game. “He is such a quality player, we can’t wait to have him join us in the blue and gold this season.”

VTCA

Thunder finding its feet

By Tara Murray

Keilor Thunder is starting to produce the basketball it thought it could in the National Basketball League 1 South competition.

Havingbeenshorthandedtostarttheseason, the Thunder with their full complement of imports won back-to-back matches heading into the weekend’s game.

For coach Trevor Burnette there was definitely some relief to have a full team to pick from.

“A couple more wins on the board, it feels a lot better than losing, I tell you now,” he said.

“We knew that we would be a pretty good side once all the imports got here.

“Juna [Umezawa] and Ai Yamada the two Japanese imports and Anna Clephane are all here now. We are a lot more equipped to play at a high level now.

“We’re playing fast, physical and aggressive basketball, it’s a nice brand of basketball for people to watch.”

Burnette said all the imports were fitting in and playing their roles Umezawa had 23 points

and 13 rebounds on the weekend, shooting 55 per cent from the field.

Burnette said it had been awesome to see the development of Umezawa

“She is one of the best bigs in the league,” he said.

“Four or five years ago she played with the Keilor championship women’s team. She has gotten a lot better since then.”

While the imports have made a massive impact, Burnette is quick to give credit to the other girls that have been on the court all season.

Captain Lana Hollingsworth is leading the way.

“She is playing a super high level and is probably one of the top players in the competition,” he said “It’s been no surprise to me. I’ve coached her since I was 14 as her trainer and I know what she can do.

“Someone just had to give her the freedom to play, like a lot of people.”

Brunette said the other younger girls had taken the opportunities in front of them. He said some of them had surprised him.

“We had the youngest roster in the whole league by a while in the first six to seven games, ”he said.

“Fortheyoungkidsitsinvaluableexperience, some were playing 30 minutes a game.

“Macey Boyle has been the biggest surprise. She’s a local Keilor girl now in the starting line up.

“She is an 18-year-old kid who is a Keilor junior through and through.

“Jaz Salon is playing big minutes and Meg Lucasisstillplayingahandfulofminutes,even with the imports coming in.”

Burnette said the imports were also helping the young girls learn off the court what they need to do, to get to that next level.

TheThunder,whichhada3-5recordheading into the weekend, were set to face the Hobart Chargers on Saturday night and the Ringwood Hawks on Sunday, both after deadline.

For Burnette, he’s looking at it one game at a time.

“If we win that’s great,” he said. “If we lose we figure out what we didn’t do great and get back into it.”

St Albans has announced its second big signing for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division season. Akila Ishanka, a left hand batsman, who is extremely handy with the ball, joins the club from St Andrews. In his time at St Andrews, he made the VTCA team of the year five times and was club champion three times.

VSDCA

Noble Park’s Janaka Liyanabadalge has won the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association Val Holten Medal. Liyanabadalge finished on 20 votes to beat Hoppers Crossing’s Simon Lambert by three votes. There were no Taylors Lakes players in the top 12 nor in the team of the year. Melton’s Ben MacRae was named captain of the team of the year.

A-League

Western United has announced the signing of Angus Thurgate for the next three A-League Men’s seasons. The talented young midfielder arrives from Newcastle Jets where he has spent the last six seasons, debuting as a 17-year-old in 2018. Thurgate said he was buzzing to start a new challenge with Western United and was looking forward to creating some history.

“Speaking with John (Aloisi) and Mal (Impiombato) and listening to the vision and plans for the coming seasons really enticed me to want to join and add some more success to this club,” he said.

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Jacob Poa. (Joe Mastroianni) 291977_08

Lana Hollingsworth. (Supplied)

City West Falcons continue on their winning way

City West Falcons continue to pile on the goals as they continue their winning streak in the Victorian Netball League championship division.

The Falcons faced Casey on Wednesday, to complete the first half of the season and it was another strong win for the Falcons.

The Falcons were able to build in every quarter on the way to a 76-55 win.

Falcons coach Marg Lind was pretty happy with the result.

“They had a really good win,” she said “Casey on paper looks like a reasonable side.

“We were to consistently get away each quarter.”

Lind said they started off slowly defensively with the Demons having Emma Ryde in the shooting circle.

Oncetheyadjustedtheirdefensivestructure, they were able to restrict Ryde’s influence.

Lind said it was a good response from a disappointing defence performance the week before.

“We had a bit of discussion after last week,” she said. “Having Lucia [Fauonuku] back helped with that variety in defence and we were able to throw it around.”

The return of Fauonuku from injury after national duties didn’t end the way they would have liked, with Fauonuku having to go to hospital.

“She looked like she was going to play the fullfourquarters,butshedislocatedherfinger and ended up at the Royal Melbourne,” Lind said.

“We couldn’t get it back in, hopefully she’s okay.”

Jane Cook shot 50 goals in another strong performance under the ring. Uneeq Palavi got the start in goal attack, with Lind keen to keep her options open.

“We don’t have a starting seven this year,” she said. “It’s important to have options as we loseafewplayerstotheworldchampionships.”

Lind said their attacking end was fairly strong in the win, with minimal errors and a

lot of patience.

She said overall it was a really good team performance.

The Falcons sit on top at the half way mark with eight wins and a loss. Boroondara ExpressandGeelongCougars,whoaresecond and third, are on the same amount of wins.

Lind said with the closeness of the competition they need to continue to ensure they are posting big scores and not having any slip ups.

She said the work that the group puts in on conditioning, through both weights and pilates was really paying off as well as helping make the club more inclusive.

The Falcons this week face the Geelong Cougars.

The Cougars are the only team to beat the Falcons this year, back in round one.

Tara Murray

Tennis star is rising fast

By Peter Howe

There is an old saying, it is always the quiet ones you have to watch. This typifies Bridget Mihulk, this month’s Don Deeble Sports Star nominee, Bridget Mihulka.

The 16-year-old has a WTA singles ranking about 900 and a junior ranking of 400, but she still classifies herself as pretty average, with always more to do.

Her coach and mentor Marc Sophoulis sums it up more succinctly, “Eleven million people around the world play tennis,” he said. “Bridget is in the top 20 in her age group.”

Mihulka however is very quiet and self-effacingwholetshertennisdothetalking.

She started playing competitive tennis aged 10havingbeenonthecourtsinceshewasfour.

“Mum played when she was young and while I tried all sports I was drawn to tennis,” she said.

“It brings out the best in me. I’m very competitive and love the challenge of working out my opponent and how to win.”

Mihulka brings height, natural power and endurance to the court.

She is at school at 5.45am every day, where shehaslessonsbetween 6-7amwithSophoulis,

thenschooltrainingfrom7-8.30ambeforethe rigour of VCE classes sets in.

“We will hit hundreds of balls to develop rhythm and then go into match play scenarios and pressure points,” she said.

“We’ll play short point games to ensure we start fast; or we might play points from deuce or play tie break points.”

Mihuka also spends time with a sports dietician and sport psychologist, who are both readily available for students at Maribyrnong Sports Academy.

During the summer months, Mihulka plays Premier League and State Grade Pennant with the Royal South Yarra Tennis Club.

She’s using that to help build up her career.

“I have played with the club for about three years,” she said. “I love playing there because it provides a team focused environment which is different to my tournament play.

“My tournament play has gradually improved and so has my ranking.

“I play mostly in Australia but have played Junior ITF tournaments in New Zealand, Singapore and Thailand. I’ve had some good results.”

Sophoulis, however, has a slightly different view. He said that Mihulka shows amazing resilience.

“Let’s take two weeks ago at a junior ITF in Canberra, “B” saved 10 match points in the first round and dug deep to come back and win the match.

“She then went on to make the semi-finals. Weneedtocelebratethoseamazingsuccesses.”

Sophoulis goes on to say that we must remember she is only able to train a few hours a day when her opponents have generally left school and are training 6 to 7 hours a day.

Mihulka is very much school focused and wants a career in science or medicine.

“I would love to earn a tennis scholarship to a college in America where I can pursue both my tennis and school.”

“As for her tennis, her response is simple, “I want to go as far as I can go. Playing on the tour and winning a grand slam tournament would be amazing.”

The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and StarWeekly If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner at the Medway Golf Club, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.

Botic again in Olyroos squad

Western United striker Noah Botic will headtoFrancenextmonthastheOlyroos prepare to take part in the prestigious Maurice Revello Tournament.

Botic’s selection comes off the back of a superb 2022-23 A-League Men’s campaign, where he broke into Western United’s first team and scored six goals.

The 21-year-old won United’s young player of the season and golden boot awards and was recognised with an Olyroos call-up in March, scoring in a friendly win against club side Como 1907.

Western United football general manager Mal Impiombato said playing in such a prestigious international tournament would be a special experience for Botic.

“We are delighted that Noah will have this opportunity to play in such a widely recognised and respected competition against highly talented opposition,” he said.

“This opportunity has come from Noah’s work ethic and commitment to developing and improving as a footballer over the past 12 months.

“We are extremely proud of Noah’s development and look forward to watching his and the team’s progress at the Maurice Revello Tournament next month.”

Formerly known as the Toulon Tournament, the annual youth international showcase has helped unearth some of world football’s biggest stars including Cristiano Ronaldo, Thierry Henry, Alan Shearer and Javier Mascherano.

Australia will be sending a team to the tournament for the first time in this the 49th edition, the first coming all the way back in 1967.

Australia has been drawn in Group B alongside fellow Asian Football Confederation nation Qatar, African side Togo and Mexico, which claimed the bronze medal at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

A minimum of four games are guaranteed at the tournament, with teams unsuccessful in reaching the semi-finals still offered the chance of playing a ranking game after the group stage.

Botic will head to camp at the end of the month before Australia’s first match at the tournament takes place on June 6 against Qatar.

Montana Holmes (Robbab Photography)

Bridget Mihulka with her coach Marc Sophoulis (Supplied)

Westvale is building up experience

Westvale Olympic is learning plenty from the FV state league 2 north-west season.

Having dominated the state league 3 north-west season last year, Westvale has had a solid first eight weeks in the higher division.

Westvale has managed to come away with some points from all but one of their matches.

Coach Bill Georgopoulos said the performances so far had been a good starting point.

“Wearehappy,”hesaid.“Wehaven’twonthe last four games with a loss and three draws,” he said.“Formeoverall,we’redoingreallywellfor a young team and on a low budget.”

Georgopoulos. said the one difference for the side this season in turning those draws into wins, was experience.

He said with a young side they were still learning how to handle those situations.

“We’redoingreallywell,butwe’renotclosing out games,” he said.

“We were leading 2-0 with 25 minutes to go and blew the lead. It was that experience.

“The only way to get that experience is to play.

“They’re learning from their mistakes and if they find themselves in the same situation, 2-0 up, hopefully next time we get the three points.”

Georgopoulossaidtheywerealreadylooking ahead to next season with the aim of adding a couple of older heads to compliment their playing group.

Georgopoulos said for the side this season theaimwastogettothe22pointmarktomake sure that they consolidate their spot in the division.

The side had 13 points after eight rounds and was in fifth spot.

“For us we want to consolidate our spot,” he said. “We’re in some good form and we’re getting a good feel for the league.

“We’re not too far away from the top teams. We have a lot of young kids and are spending really low money compared to some of the other teams.”

Westvale was set for a big test on the weekend, facing top side Clifton Hill on Saturday afternoon, after deadline.

CliftonHillhadsevenwinsfromeightgames heading into the match, with Georgopoulos. saying the club was one that had put a lot of resources into this season.

Off field, the club is in discussions with Brimbank council about making changes to their second pitch.

He said they were also hoping to have new club rooms in the next five years. The club has also gone from one junior team to three this season.

“The last 24 months we’ve come a long way.”

Scuffle ends EDFL game

By Tara Murray

AnEssendonDistrictFootballLeaguedivision

1 match between St Albans and Hillside was called off early and police had to attend after a scuffle.

HillsidewasleadingatKingsPark,whenthe incident occurred about three quarter time.

Players along with spectators from both sides were involved and umpires made the decision to end the game with a quarter remaining.

Police were called to the ground to help with end the situation.

A police spokesperson said that there were no injuries reported to police.

“Police attended a football game in Kings Park on Saturday, 20 May,” they said.

“It is understood players from both teams andspectatorswerefightingatasportsground on Gillespie Road about 4pm.

“Police arrived and separated the parties. There were no official complaints made to police and no one was taken into custody.”

The league said it wouldn’t be making any

comments pending further investigation into the game.

Both club presidents, St Albans’ James Perkin and Hillside’s Sebastian Buccheri, said they had no comment at this stage.

Hillside was leading 9.5 (59)-5.11 (41) at the time and have at this stage been awarded the four points.

Bailey Ryan had kicked three goals for the Sharks, while Lachlan Pettigrove was named their best.

For the Saints, Bol Kolang kicked two goals, while Jake Galea was named their best.

The Sharks now sit second on the ladder, while the Saints have slipped to sixth if the result stands.

The result marred an otherwise good round of football, which included a couple of upsets.

Rupertswood was able to hold off Deer Park in a thriller, winning 13.5 (83)-12.10 (82).

The Sharks ked throughout the game, with the margin 13 points at the last break.

The Lions had plenty of opportunities late, kicking 4-6 in the final term to snatch the win, but weren’t able to do so.

Todd Elton kicked five goals for the Lions, while Lachlan Smart kicked three goals.

Scott Greenhough was named their best alongside Tim Quick.

The Lions have slipped to third on the ladder, equal on points with Rupertswood and Roxburgh Park.

In premier division, Keilor won the battle of the undefeated teams, beating East Keilor.

The Cougars led at quarter time before the Blues kicked seven goals in the second term to take control of the match.

The Blues were able to keep the momentum going as they won 18.7 (115)-6.10 (46).

Kane Barbuto kicked five goals in a best on ground performance for the Blues.

In division 2, Taylors Lakes was too strong for the Sunbury Kangaroos, winning 16.6 (102)-12.7 (79).

Aaron Vendramini was named the Lions best.

Burnside Height was too strong for East Sunbury underlights, winning 15.19 (109)-3.2 (20).

Calder add A-League talent

Calder United has added five A-League Women’s players to its squad for the rest oftheNationalPremierLeagueWomen’s season.

As reported last week, coach Helen Winterburn said they were looking to add back in some of their previous players, who had been part of Western United’s A-League Women’s grand final run.

Alana Cerne is the highest profile player to be announced to return to the club. Cerne, who was Western United’s first ever player, played in 19 games in the A-League season and was rewarded with a call up to the Australian under-23 squad.

Julia Sardo also returns after a strong A-League season. It was Sardo’s third stint in the A-League competition, having previously played with Melbourne City and Perth Glory. She made 11 appearances for Western United, including being on the bench of the grand final.

Natasha Dakic was another player on the bench in the grand final. She returns to Calder having made 11 games in her inaugural A-League season.

RaquelDeralas,akeyplayerinCalder’s consecutive NPLW trebles in 2019 and 2022 also returns to Calder having had a scholarship contract with Western United. She is yet to make her A-League debut.

Annabel Haffenden also continues Calder, having played with Brisbane Roar in the A-League competition. She previously played with Alamein in the NPLW competition. Haffenden made her debut for the club in its 1-1 draw with South Melbourne.

Meanwhile, former Calder captain Aleks Sinclair has signed with Victorian Premier League club Stallions Tom Markovski said Sinclair was the biggest signing in the club’s history and were hopeful of having her about for a number of years.

“We’re fortunate to have the opportunity to have her at the club, we’re really rapt to get her on board,” he said.

Withsuchayoungsquadandbigfocus on bringing through their own talent, Markovski said Sinclair would be able to help the girls that are coming through.

The Hillside and St Albans game was called off. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 335901_06

Tara Murray Westvale’s Christopher Triantafilopoulos. (Joe Mastroianni) 322193_07

ROUND

ROUND 10