Star Weekly - Northern - 23rd May 2023

Epping car park clash

By Hannah Hammoud

Members of the Epping Football Netball Club (EFNC) are calling out Whittlesea council for dishonouring its promise that work on the club’s car park would not impact the football season.

Previously, council worked with EFNC on thenewgroundandparkinglotimprovements, but club president Kirsty Stilsby said the most recent stage two improvements to the car park will have adverse consequences for the club.

A high concern for the club is that medics will not be able to move around the ground freely, and ambulance services will also be

blocked off from the top oval if the proposed works are to go ahead during the season.

“We were told that these stage two works wouldn’t impede on the football season and if it did it would only be for one or two weeks,” Ms Stilsby said.

The football club is well into the season and

Ms Stilsby is urging council to delay works until the football season is finished.

“Council is meant to be looking after the community … well they’re not, they’re not listeningtowhatthisisgoingtodototheclub,” she said. “There will only be 60-odd car parks while the works are going on. This is nowhere near enough when we have 10 junior sides training at once, on Sundays we will have a crossover with 48 kids on one oval and 48 on the other, and that doesn’t consider things like milestone games and family and friends coming to watch.”

Whittlesea council chief executive Craig Lloyd confirmed that work is set to begin

on the second stage of car par park upgrade but council will ensure there are appropriate interim parking arrangements in place and thatemergencyaccesstothesportsgroundand pavilion is always maintained.

“…While council’s preference is to complete upgrades like this outside of the football season,thisisnotalwayspossibleduetomarket conditions, and escalating costs if the project is delayed,” he said.

“Counciliscommittedtocontinuingtowork with the Epping Football and Netball Club and other users of the reserve to address their concerns and minimise disruption as much as possible.”

The Epping Football Netball Club community is calling for council to delay works on the car park. Pictured are Rob Bloomfield, Tony Vescio, Joe Angerosa, David Sammut and Kristy Sammut.

(Damjan Janevski) 334346_02

‘‘ Council is meant to be looking after the community … well they’re not, they’re not listening ’’ - Kirsty Stilsby

• Campbellfield Chris and Marie’s 1477 Sydney Road

• Campbellfield Barry Road Milk Bar 331 Barry Road

• Coolaroo Meadow Heights Newsagency Shop 16, 55 Paringa Boulevard

• Coolaroo Melba Vale Country Club 1390 Pascoe Vale Road

• Craigieburn Craigieburn Convenience Store 19 Bank Street

• Craigieburn Hume City Council 75-95 Central Park Avenue

• Craigieburn Coles Service Station 42-44 Craigieburn Road

• Craigieburn Connections - Craigieburn 59 Craigieburn Road

• Craigieburn Craigieburn Central Shopping Centre 340 Craigieburn Road

• Craigieburn Harry Brown Liquor G03/420-440 Craigieburn Road

• Craigieburn The Foodary Caltex 420-440 Craigieburn Road

• Craigieburn Freshplus Craigieburn 420-440 Craigieburn Road

• Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket 10 Craigieburn Road

• Craigieburn Coles Supermarket Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Windrock

• Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Aitken Rd

• Craigieburn Quality Food Store Cnr Craigieburn Rd & Aitken Rd

• Craigieburn Milk Bar Store 100 Fairways Boulevard

• Craigieburn Nanak Indian Grocery Highlands SC 300 Grand Boulevard

• Craigieburn Woolworths Supermarket 300 Highlands SC Grand Boulevard

• Craigieburn Highlands News & Lotto 300 HighlandsSC Grand Boulevard

• Craigieburn Hothlyn Drive Milk Bar Hothlyn Drive

• Craigieburn Foodworks 130-132 Hothlyn Drive

• Craigieburn Caltex - now Ampol 315 Hume Highway

• Craigieburn Metro Petroluem 330 Hume Highway

• Craigieburn IGA Xpress Grand Boulevard 27-29

Princes Circuit

• Craigieburn Moey’s Milk Bar 2

50-metre pool a reality

Hume braces for more rate pain

By Hannah Hammoud

Despite strong opposition from three councillors, Hume council’s draft budget 2023-24 has been endorsed for public consultation and includes an average rate rise of 3.5 per cent to help fund a $128 million capital works budget.

Cr Karen Sherry acknowledged the “challenging” financial climate that all residents are facing as the rising cost of living pressures continue to squeeze.

“Our investment in services and infrastructure will help our growing community continue to thrive, it will provide thesupportforourresidentsfrombirththrough to their later life. It is financially responsible

and considers all that our community needs,” Cr Sherry said.

A proposed capital works program of $128.25 million will go towards maintaining, upgrading and building community facilities, roads,footpaths,parksandreservesin2023-24.

The capital works program touts major development projects across the municipality with more than $38 million injected into a number of projects, including the upgrade of the former Craigieburn Leisure Centre to a new indoor sports facility, Kalkallo North Community Hub, Greenvale indoor cricket centreandSeabrookReserveCommunityHub.

Council has proposed an average rate increase of 3.5 per cent, the largest increase permitted under the state government’s rate

cap. The draft budget includes the introduction of the waste services charge which will be removed from the general rates and be charged for separately. Hume council will also roll out the introduction of Food Organics/Green Organics (FOGO) bins.

Crs Trevor Dance, Carly Moore and Jodi Jackson expressed their concerns over the inclusion of expensive items listed in the budget, each concurring that the draft budget was not ready for consultation in its current format and required further information.

The draft budget includes the allocation of over $38.42 million as part of the capital works budgetoverthenextfiveyearsforanEnterprise ResourcePlanningTechnologysolution,which

Boost for local non-verbal students

South Morang Special Developmental School, Merriang SDS, has been provided with seven iPads from State Schools Relief to help remove barriers to education for non-verbal students.

The iPads are equipped with various apps designed for language learning and are a crucial tool in helping special needs students to communicate with their teachers, allied health workers, families, peers and the wider community.

Merriang SDS learning specialist Shelley Daisleysaidwithoutthehelpofinitiativessuch as this, some students would not have access to a communication iPad.

“When family finances are stretched, primary needs are usually first addressed and then the need for items such as iPads simply cannot be met,” she said.

Ms Daisley cited various financial pressures that families may be facing including low socioeconomic status, expenses related to therapies required to address the needs of their child with a disability and current economic pressures.

“The whole school community was incrediblygratefulfortheresourcessuppliedto these students,” she said.

“The opportunities for students to use the technology across all of their life environments is invaluable.”

Victorian not-for-profit State Schools Relief has continued its partnership with Bank First and the Australian Schools Canteen Association to provide more than 400 iPads and covers to non-verbal students across the state.

State Schools Relief chief executive Sue Karzis said that the initiative to provide nonverbal children with an iPad is one of the most impactful programs she has witnessed.

“To be able to empower students by giving them a voice is incredibly powerful and a privilege to be a part of,” she said.

“Since 2019, we have equipped over 1,000 students in specialist schools throughout Victoria with an iPad which has enabled them to communicate both at school and also with their local community.”

Hannah Hammoud

CrDancereferredtoas,“afancydescriptionfor upgrading our IT systems”.

The technology investment will be subject to afurthercouncilreportnextmonthtoconfirm the final scope and allocation in the budget.

Cr Moore said she could not support the technology investment in absence of all the details.

“ … I do not think that it is financially responsibletoincludea$40millioniteminour budget,whetheritisadraftbudgetornotuntil, we have had at least a detailed business case. This would not be good governance.”

Residents will be able to provide feedback on the draft budget until May 30.

Council will hold a submissions hearing on June 5.

Winter Lights fest returns

The immersive Hume Winter Lights Festival is back for a second big year offering locals and visitors a chance to dance away the winter chill on Saturday, June 17.

Thousands of people visited the BroadmeadowsTownHallprecinctfor the inaugural 2022 event, indulging in free entertainment from the Presets and Sneaky Sound System, while being wowed by art installations and light projections onto Hume’s iconic precinct buildings.

This year promises more of the same with internationally renowned electronic acts The Potbelleez (DJ Set), DJ Havana Brown and much more. The festival will feature nine art projections by renowned Australian and Hume local visual artists, community groups and students, and include an interactive play-centred exhibition for big and little kids by artist Beci Orpin.

This year’s event program has been expanded to feature many family-friendly activities including an all-new ice-skating rink that’s sure to be a festival highlight. As the night sets in, attendees can warm up with some mulled wine and enjoy local food with friends under the night sky while waiting for it to come to life in the thrilling festival fireworks finale.

The festival’s return is supported with $150,000 in funding from the state government as part of the Broadmeadows Suburban Revitalisation program.

Details: hume.vic.gov.au/hwlf.

New pitch to kick female, junior soccer participation goals

The grass will soon be greener at Harvest Home Road Recreation Reserve after plans to installanewsyntheticsoccerpitchhavemoved forward.

Whittlesea council voted at a council meeting on Tuesday, May 16, to award the tender for a new FIFA-accredited synthetic pitch and lighting replacement.

The pitch redevelopment is expected to increase usage by 52 per cent, or 17 hours per week and create opportunities to grow the club’s female and junior programs.

Whittlesea Ranges FC council liaison David Sforzatosaidtheupgradewouldimprovesafety and be a drawcard for prospective players.

He said the club intended to field a senior women’s team next year and aimed to boost

female participation across all age groups.

“If female players see that we have state-of-the-artfacilitiesthentheywillhavethe confidence to join our club,” Mr Sforzato said.

The synthetic turf to be used will be made from 100 per cent Australian-made yarn manufactured in Victoria and designed to withstand heavy use.

The pitch’s 25mm thick rubber underlay will be made from end-of-life truck tyre granules, thereby reducing the number of tyres entering landfill.

Chair administrator Lydia Wilson said council’s Active Whittlesea Strategy 2019-28 identified the lack of suitable facilities as a significantbarriertofemaleparticipationinall sports.

“This redevelopment will enable the club to grow their female participation and pathway programs by providing better facilities and improved access,” Ms Wilson said.

“We also know that junior participation rates will grow in the coming years as the population increases, so this will allow the club’s juniors more access to top quality training facilities.”

The $2 million project will be funded by Whittlesea council, with the state government contributing $500,000 from its World Games Facilities Fund 2022.

Construction is scheduled to commence in August.

Hannah Hammoud

Students from Merriang Special Developmental School received iPads to help them communicate, including Jackson, 11. (Damjan Janevski) 333155_02

‘‘ The opportunities for students to use the technology across all of their life environments is invaluable ’’

- Shelley Daisley

Fears for road funding

By Hannah Hammoud

A looming shadow has been cast over various infrastructure projects ahead of the state budget, including the duplication of Mickleham Road.

On Sunday, May 7 Liberal leader John PesuttoledachorusofsupportfromNorthern Metropolitan Region MP Evan Mulholland, Greenvale Residents Association Tamara Nolan and Hume councillor Jim Overend calling on the state government to fully fund a duplication upgrade on Mickleham Road up to Craigieburn Road in the upcoming state budget.

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, the Mickleham Road Upgrade was co-funded by

the state and federal government, with $222 million to deliver a 1.6 kilometre duplication of Mickleham Road from Somerton Road to DellamoreBoulevard.

Many are anticipating slashes to funding infrastructure in the upcoming state budget, with fears of delays to the duplication project.

Mr Mulholland said the completion of the duplication of Mickleham Road should progressasahighpriorityforthegovernment.

“Numerous serious accidents have taken place in recent years, and the longer the duplication is delayed, the safety of the more than 25,000 commuters who use the Somerton Road connection daily is put at risk,” Mr Mulholland said.

Earlier this year, Mr Mulholland used

question time in state parliament to ask the state Treasurer to fully fund a duplication upgrade on Mickleham Road which would extend up to Craigieburn Road in the state budget.

Treasurer Tim Pallas provided a written response regarding funding for the Mickleham Road duplication where he said that all requests for roads funding will be considered as part of the broader 2023-24 budget process.

“As with all budget determinations, competing priorities for the use of the government’s limited resources will be assessed in the best interests of the Victorian community, with decisions announced on budget day,” Mr Pallas said.

Help shape Whittlesea

Whittlesea council is calling on passionate local community members to play a role in helping shape key strategies that will guide council over the next five to 10 years.

Local residents are invited to join the Community Priorities Focus groups to provide their input and knowledge that will help shape future key strategies for the municipality.

ChairadministratorLydiaWilsonsaid the council was looking for diversity in participation.

“Youdon’ttohaveanypriorexperience, just ideas and passion and a love of all things Whittlesea,” she said.

“Wereallywanttohearthediversityof our community voices reflected in these key strategic documents that will help us deliver on our community vision of Whittlesea 2040: A Place for All.”

Participation in the Community Priorities Focus Group will be capped at 25peopleandparticipantswillbechosen to reflect the diversity of the Whittlesea community.

If selected, participants would need to commit to attending the three focus group sessions and complete any pre-reading. Council anticipates it will be a 9 to 12-hour commitment and participants will receive a gift voucher.

Thefocusgroupsessionsarescheduled for:

•Saturday,June3,9.30am-12.30pm

•Saturday,June17,9.30am-12.30pm

•TBC-EarlyOctober

Details: engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au

Liberal leader John Pesutto, Greenvale Residents Association Tamara Nolan, Hume Cr Jim Overend and Northern Metropolitan Region MP Evan Mulholland. (Supplied)

Safe space to be heard

By Hannah Hammoud

Police stations in Hume have implemented a new family violence measure to help encourage local victim-survivors to report incidents of family violence.

Sunbury, Broadmeadows and Craigieburn police stations have set up the private, child-friendly rooms for victim-survivors to talk to police about family violence concerns.

Each station has a special room with information posters in the top five languages spoken in Hume: English, Arabic, Turkish, Punjabi and Hindi.

Hume Inspector Dean Clinton said this new measure seeks to increase the confidence of local victim-survivors to come forward and report family violence to police.

“We are committed to providing victim-survivors with safety, privacy and time to talk to us about their experiences,”

Inspector Clinton said.

“We understand it takes courage, and that it can be difficult to come into a police station and take that first step of reporting the problem.

“Our family-violence reporting rooms provide a safe space away from the public counter; a comfortable and informal space, where victim-survivors can speak in private, and where our staff can take the time to listen to the whole story and make an appropriate assessment of how we can help.”

Inspector Clinton said that the initial discussion will take place on couches and

will only move to a desk when a police officer needs to use a computer to take a report.

“The goal of these changes is to provide a more considerate service to victim-survivors and to allow them to build rapport with the

What’s on

police officer assigned to help them,” he said.

“These are very sensitive matters and privacy makes a difference. It is also safer for complainants that their business is not conducted in a busy foyer.”

Driver fined for noisy car

A Greenvale man has been fined $1100 without conviction and ordered to pay EPA Victoria $350 in costs over his noisy Volkswagen.

EPA said that it is the first time a prosecution like this has gone to court under the new Environment Protection Act, and the matter might not be over. The man is still responsible for having the vehicle tested and the EPA has further legal options available, including suspending the vehicle’s registration.

The vehicle was reported to EPA by police for being excessively noisy, after they heard it being driven along Roxburgh Park Drive in Roxburgh Park, on September 2 last year.

The driver was issued with a vehicle testing notice requiring him to have hisvehicletestedbyanEPA-appointed vehicle tester and then send EPA a Certificate of Compliance to prove it meets vehicle noise regulations.

The man failed to provide the proper documents, but entered a plea of guilty when the charge came up before the Melbourne Magistrates Court.

Members of the public can report pollution including excessive noise from vehicles, by calling EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or providing details online at epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/ reporting-pollution

Coffee with Council

Join council for a chat and warm cup of coffee on us!

Coffee with Council takes place in Whittlesea this May, giving residents the opportunity to sit down and chat with Administrators and senior staff about topics and issues that matter to them and our community.

Tuesday 30 May, 11am – 1pm Café 59 on Church, 59 Church Street, Whittlesea. For more information visit, www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/events

World Environment Day events

Celebrate World Environment Day in the City of Whittlesea this June by taking part in a range of free, fun, nature-based programs.

From group activities to outdoor mindfulness sessions, these events will not only get you out and about, but also allow you to enjoy and appreciate our beautiful natural environment.

For more information and to sign up for one of our nature-based events, visit our website at: www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/greenevents

whittlesea.vic.gov.au

Senior Sergeant Laura Woolfe and Inspector Dean Clinton sit inside the new family violence reporting rooms at Broadmeadows police station. (Damjan Janevski) 335049_01

‘‘ These are very sensitive matters and privacy makes a difference ’’ - Dean Clinton

Boosting kinder access

Morechildrenandfamiliesfromculturallyand linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds are accessing and attending kindergarten, thanks to council-led outreach programs supportedbythestategovernment.

Supporting councils, including Hume and Whittlesea, to run engagement activities and employoutreachworkers,grantstotalling$3.5 million have backed children and families from CALD backgrounds to access and attend kindergarten, connect with other early childhoodsupportsandtransitionsuccessfully toprimaryschool,thegovernmentsaid.

CALD outreach teams work across communities to help CALD families access early childhood services in their local area, including visiting playgroups, libraries and community hubs, assisting families with kindergarten enrolment, organising information sessions and working with

educatorstoaddressattendancebarriers.

The Municipal Association of Victoria is receiving funding to support council-led outreach programs and activities, and share key learnings and insights with all councils statewide.

Since 2020, the program has worked with families from Eritrean, Ethiopian, Vietnamese, Somali, Pakistani, Turkish, Sudanese and Pacific Islander backgrounds, with a full suite of translated resources and freeinterpretersavailabletosupportVictoria’s multicultural communities to engage with kindergarten.

“Children from multicultural communities –likeeverychild–havesomuchtogainfrom two years of kindergarten, and we’re giving families from diverse backgrounds access to the very best early childhood education, PremierDanielAndrewssaid.

Briefs

Tyre company fined by EPA EPA Victoria has fined recycling company Tyre Crumb (Vic) Pty Ltd $9246 for failing to keep adequate records of waste storage and movement at its Broadmeadows premises. The fine comes after EPA officers visited the site on March 21, to assess actions taken to reduce the risk of fire from the company’s processing and stockpiling of Combustible Recyclable Waste Materials. EPA said the company was to get its record keeping in order, but when EPA officers checked again, the problem was still there.

Police target hoons

Police issued 13 car owners with defect notices during an operation targeting hoon drivers in Thomastown on Thursday, May 4. 50 people allegedly associated with recent hoon activity in the area were instructed to present their vehicle for roadworthy inspection, with 30 cars attending. Police issued 13 defect notices for mechanical faults, engine modifications, window tinting and tyre issues. Eight of those who received defect notices also received infringement notices for more serious defects and other traffic related offences. The EPA issued five fines to people for cars that exceeded noise limits, and the Sheriff’s Office seized a car as a result of over $20,000 in outstanding fines.

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Premier Daniel Andrews and Early Education and Pre-prep Minister Ingrid Stitt visit a kinder. (Supplied)

Council overhauls grant process

By Hannah Hammoud

A planned redesign of Whittlesea council’s Community Grants program will make it easier for individuals and groups to apply for funding.

At a council meeting on Tuesday, May 16, administratorsendorsedthereleaseofthedraft Community Grants Guidelines which will commence a month-long public consultation process.

The proposed changes to the guidelines are designed to simplify the application process and ensure grants are distributed in an

equitable way to a wider range of applicants.

The draft guidelines would result in council offeringsixcategoriesofgrants:small,medium, large, individual, unincorporated groups and emergency.

The proposed changes include the introduction of all year-round grants, with approval rounds conducted on a monthly or quarterly basis.

Emergency grants are also now proposed to provide immediate support to eligible applicants experiencing unforeseen financial hardship. When applying, applicants will be asked to categorise their event or program

Celebrating local heroes

Held annually during National Volunteer Week, Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW) is a day for the public to thank and acknowledge State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers for the invaluable contribution and commitment they make to local communities.

The work of volunteers can often be a thankless endeavour, but Wednesday, May 17, marks the national day of thanks dedicated to SES volunteers across Australia.

Whittlesea unit controller Gary Doorbar is serving in his 15th year of working with VICSES. He said that SES volunteers are at times confused with being a paid agency.

“Wear Orange Wednesday helps to celebrate thatwearevolunteershelpingthecommunity,” Mr Doorbar said.

Along with assisting police, ambulance and fire agencies, Mr Doorbar said SES volunteers are the first responders within VICSES for all calls from road rescue to trees on roads,

domesticrescue,storm,floodandothernatural events.

“Being able to support the community and other emergency services and community groups when needed is a great motivator,” he said.

Over the last 12 months, VICSES volunteers have responded to over 35,000 requests for assistance. The last three years have been the busiest in VICSES history, following three consecutive years of La Nina which brought severe storms and major flooding.

VICSES chief executive Stephen Griffin said that WOW acknowledges the sacrifice volunteers make to help the community come rain, hail or shine.

“I continue to admire the remarkable and relentless efforts of our VICSES volunteers and thank you for your time and dedication, many of you go over and beyond and it is truly inspiring,” Mr Griffin said.

into one of four themes: arts and culture, sport and recreation, community leadership or sustainable environment.

Council noted that existing agreements and partnerships under the current guidelines will continue to be honoured.

Chair administrator Lydia Wilson said council was excited to partner with even more individuals, groups and organisations to deliver beneficial events and programs.

“Thegrantsprogramisagreatwaytosupport theterrificworkdonebysomanypeopleforthe benefit of our community,” Ms Wilson said.

“Updatingtheguidelinesmeansthatfunding

opportunitieswillbeavailableformorepeople, providing they meet the eligibility criteria.”

The draft guidelines will be open for community feedback between May 17 to June 13.

Key stakeholders and the wider community are encouraged to share feedback in a variety of ways, including through digital engagement and scheduled community pop-ups.

Following the community consultation process, the draft guidelines will be proposed to council for adoption at the meeting on June 28.

Details: engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au

Whittlesea Unit SES volunteers Sebastian La Spina, Cameron Couch, Dieter Burkhardt, Les Lovett, Kevin Lilleg and Unit Controller Gary Doorbar. (Damjan Janevski) 334911_03

Events strategy first in a decade

By Hannah Hammoud

Humecouncilisseekingcommunityfeedback for the 2023-23 draft events and festivals strategy, Vibrant and Inclusive.

Vibrant and Inclusive is the first events and festivals strategy in over 10 years. Prior to the development of Vibrant and Inclusive, council’spreviouseventsstrategywasadopted in 2010.

Vibrant and Inclusive was informed through community feedback from an events and festivals consultation process that was undertaken last year. The Participate Hume

page attracted 690 visits, with 588 people responding to the survey.

From a list of different types of festivals and events on offer, the top three preferences from respondents were: Major festival with headline act, activities, and food (43.8 per cent), Community event with activities and food (42.2 per cent) and Food and wine festival (35.1 per cent).

Key findings from the survey supported the development of strategic direction and guiding principles of the strategy.

The key principles of the strategy are to deliver events that are inclusive of all the

Lacing up for school

This May will mark the 24th anniversary of National Walk Safely to School Day championed by the Pedestrian Council Australia which is calling on local primary schools to lace up and participate.

Whittlesea Primary School students

Margaret, 10, Melinda, 10, Gabby, 10, and Edmund, 12, joined their classmates on Friday, May 19, to take part in Walk Safely to School Day.

The students shared tips for parents and kidstohelpthemtakethesteptowardmaking walking to school a healthy habit throughout the year.

“If you live too far from school to walk the whole way you could park your car at a park close by and walk the rest of the way to school,” Gabby said.

“If you live close to your friends, you can organise to walk together,” Melinda said.

Primary school children across Australia

were encouraged to walk and commute safely to school in an effort to raise awareness of the health, road safety, transport and environmental benefits that regular walking, or alternative active transport can achieve.

Pedestrian Council of Australia chief executive Harold Scruby said children must alwaysholdthehandofanadultwhencrossing the road up until they are 10-years-old.

“Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. We should encourage them to take a walk before school, during and at the end of their day,” Mr Scruby said.

The Pedestrian Council is encouraging a community effort from parents, teachers, and carers to play their role in helping children and young people lead active healthy lives, not just on May 19, but everyday.

Hannah Hammoud

Hume community, have a primary purpose of community benefit and are financially and environmentally sustainable.

Cr Jarrod Bell shared the strategy at a council meeting on Monday, May 8 and encouraged the community to provide feedback on the draft events strategy through the council website.

“This strategy reflects the council’s aspirations for a thriving community and a strong sense of belonging, and provides the guiding principles to support us in our role as an event producer, supporter, partner and enabler,” Cr Bell said.

“ … I believe that Vibrant and Inclusive is a significant step in our council’s commitment to supporting our community’s aspirations.”

The draft events and festivals strategy will be open to stakeholder and community feedback until June 7, 2023.

Following the feedback period, council will finalise Vibrant and Inclusive with consideration for feedback received and present it to council for adoption.

Details:https://participate.hume.vic.gov.au/ events-and-festivals-strategy-draft

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including Margaret, 10, Melinda, 10, Gabby, 10, and Edmund, 12. (Supplied)

Councils welcome road funding

By Hannah Hammoud

Hume and Whittlesea councils each received a funding boost to improve local roads and infrastructure as part of phase four of the federal government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Hume council received more than $2.5 million as part of the program and Whittlesea council received more than $2 million.

On Wednesday, May 3, the federal

governmentannounceda$250millionboostto phase four of the program, which grew Hume councils total allocation to $2,552,055. The extra funding brought the total allocation for Whittlesea council to $2,235, 000.

The additional $250 million investment is availabletocouncilsclassifiedasrural,regional or outer-urban to spend on road projects with 466 of Australia’s 550 councils set to benefit from the extra funding.

Infrastructure, Transport, Regional

Workshop your career

Last week, the Skills and Jobs Centre team at Kangan Institute’s Broadmeadows campus kicked off a series of online workshops to mark National Careers Week.

Running from May 15-21, National Careers WeekisaninitiativechampionedbytheCareer Industry Council of Australia and aims to celebrate careers, career development, career development services and career development practitioners.

The national week also works to promote the economic, social and personal benefits of career development for all Australians.

Kangan Institute chief executive Sally Curtain said the Skills and Jobs Centre is a vital resource for local job seekers and career changers to get career and training pathway advice.

“By working hand-in-hand with local industry, the Skills and Jobs Centre plays a big partinconnectingpeopletonewandemerging employment opportunities,” Ms Curtain said.

Throughout the week, the Skills and Jobs Centre team based at the Broadmeadows

campus hosted nine, free online employment workshops to provide expert guidance on training and employment opportunities.

Beyond National Careers Week, the team encourages people to continue to take up the ongoing workshops and one-on-one appointments that are available at Kangan Institute throughout the year.

Skills and Jobs centre manager Wendy Schwedes said the week was a perfect time for people to reflect on their career pathway and prepare for their new dream job.

“These workshops are specifically geared towards helping local job seekers and career starters build up interview and job search skills, so that they can improve their success when applying for jobs online,” Ms Schwedes said.

Hannah Hammoud

Kangan Institute’s Skills and Jobs Centre Manager Wendy Schwedes and Administrative Officer Trung Nguyen. (Supplied)

Development and Local Government Minister

Catherine King said the government is committed to prioritising road upgrades in regional, rural and outer urban areas.

“We are delivering our election commitment of a further $250 million through phase four,”

Ms King said. “We know many councils across the country are struggling to maintain and improve their local road networks, especially following repeated flooding and other natural disasters in recent times.

“We [are supporting councils] in their vital role in delivering critical infrastructure for their communities.”

Hume council said Cobram Street in Broadmeadows,MasonStreetbetweenWaratah Street and Salvator Drive in Campbellfield, and Oaklands Road in Oaklands Junction are proposed to receive the funding and the designs well progressed.

Councils will be able to access their phase four funding allocations from July.

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

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 onthelookoutforstaff,approximately1500job 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 attendedthejobfairwithherfather,whoisalso 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 wherevertheyneedhelp…andaskalltheright 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. “[Iwantto]findopportunitiesandseewhere 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

Ultra fundraising effort

In January 2020, Lalor Running Club (LRC) committeememberandcoachKirstyBranagan was diagnosed with stage three rectal cancer.

During 2020, the club helped raise funds through a running event for the Northern Health Foundation as a thank-you to the supportandcaretheyprovidedtoMsBranagan during her treatment.

Since the first DNF Ultra running event, two more members of LRC have undergone treatment for cancer at Northern Health. The fundraiserisnowheldeveryyear,mostrecently on Sunday, April 30 raising over $3000.

Money raised through the fundraiser goes directly back to the Northern Health Foundationwhichprovidesfundingtosupport research, equipment and treatments at local hospitals.

Ms Branagan said that it is empowering to see exactly where the fundraising goes.

“The Northern Health Foundation has been an amazing support to three of us club members in our personal cancer journeys, as wellasmanyothercommunitymemberseither

themselves or as supports to loved ones,” she said. “To be able to give a small contribution back to this amazing foundation is really important to us.”

The DNF Ultra requires participants to run as many laps as they can with all the donations from the event raised for Northern Health Cancer Services.

For the first time ever the event sold out of entries with 72 registrations. Ms Branagan said that witnessing the recreational running community together and supporting each other while raising funds was a moment to cherish.

“The highlight of this year’s event was the lines of people along the finish chute clapping and cheering as our winner crossed the line for his35thlap,afterrunningover56km,”shesaid.

“It gave me goose bumps.”

Donations can still be made at LRC’s Just Giving page, https://www.justgiving.com/ campaign/LRC-supports-NHF

Hannah Hammoud

Lalor Running Club members Kirsty Branagan, Milissa McGuinness, Chris Cashen, Richard Gilloway and Kylie Targett are raising funds for the Northern Health Foundation. (Damjan Janevski) 332517_01

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

A week of neighbourhood fun

Neighbourhood House Week was celebrated across the Whittlesea municipality from May 8 to 14, with the theme of ‘locals connecting locals’.

Neighbourhood House Week is an annual nationalcelebration,recognisingtheimportant contributions of over 1,000 neighbourhood housesacrossAustralia.

Lalor Neighbourhood House and Thomastown Neighbourhood House (TNH) both hosted a range of weekly activities and services for the local community. From social craft groups and information sessions, to playgroups and parties, there is always something to do at your local neighbourhood house.

Thomastown Neighbourhood House manager Liz Skitch said TNH works within a community development framework to create community engagement through events, activitiesandvolunteeropportunities.

“The theme for this year’s Neighbourhood House Week is ‘locals connecting locals’ and this really reflects our work at TNH,” Ms Skitch said. “Events such as the Promisetown Picnic and activities like our playgroup or women’s circle really bring community members together. Even our coffee cart at the ThomastownLibraryprovidesaplaceforlocals tocatchupoveracuppa.

“Through providing these opportunities to connect our community is greatly strengthened.”

Ms Skitch said the team at TNH values diversity, equity and accessibility and these values are shared throughout the community inallworktheycarryout.

“Itcreatesareallyinclusiveanddiverseteam andwhenthecommunityseesthisrepresented, it has really positive and powerful outcomes. It’sthebutterflyeffect,”shesaid.

Left: Community Craft Connections at Thomastown Neighbourhood House. A weekly social craft group held every Monday from 9am-12pm. (Supplied) Centre: Virginia Dennis in the Lalor Neighbourhood House garden. Right: Lalor Neighbourhood House staff Silvana Barba, Joyce Parle, Meridith Budge, Sandra Arceri and Bushra Hasan. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 333761

Thomastown Neighbourhood House and Thomastown Library hosted a Magic Party as part of Walking Thomastown. TNH manager Liz Skitch and magician Chris Morant stand in front of a healthy audience of over 200 local families. (Supplied)

Murals colour the building of Lalor Neighbourhood House. Pictured is artists Ildiko Kormanyos (above) and Bushra Hasan (below).

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive,

Creative arts and fitness

Banksia Gardens Community Services is running yoga and jewellery making classes every Tuesday.

■ 9309 8531

Craft and Conversation

Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday weekly craft group from 1-3pm and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends.

■ humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park

Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday from 11.30am-1pm at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park.

■ www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/

Roxburgh-Park-Homestead-Communityand-Learning-CentreWeekly-CommunityLunch-317411976767

Tai Chi for health

Come along to Homestead Community and Learning Centre in Roxburgh Park for a lesson in tai chi, a low impact exercise program to build strength. Everyone is welcome. It’ll be held every Monday from 10.30-11.30am.

■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Tai-Chi-for-Health-317365848797

Adult education

Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills.

■ 9309 8531

Senior citizens meet

The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park.

■ Beulah, 0411 422 398

Homestead Walking Group

Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesday’s for a 30–45 minute walk.

■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/ Eventbrite/Homestead-WalkingGroup-493400784027

Free healthy lifestyle programs

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

■ Brooke McDonald, 1300 822 953

Seeking volunteer minibus drivers

No special licence required, commitment time is one day a week 9am-3pm. The role involves supporting staff in picking up clients from their homes and taking them to an activity/ social event or outing and then taking them back home. Our clients are older people and people with disabilities. DPV Health has friendly and supportive staff, training opportunities, volunteer recognition and special volunteer celebrations.

■ 0417 351 220

Community Phone Connect Program

This is a free community service for older people and people with disability, living

on their own in the Hume and Whittlesea regions. Through the Community Connect Program, you will receive regular phone calls from a volunteer to check that you are safe, secure and well.

■ To join, call 8301 8863

Mill Park Library Carer Group

Are you a Carer - here is your opportunity to connect with carers in your area, get together and have a chat, share stories, maybe a little art/craft occasionally, and support one another over a cup of tea/ coffee. First Group - Every Wednesday 1:30-3pm at the Bluestone School House, 879 Plenty Road, South Morang. Second Group - Each fortnight, Thursdays 1:30-3pm at the Mill Park Library. Beginning March 23. All Carers are welcome.

■ 0401 673 842

Bicycle Riders Wanted Whittlesea Bicycle Users Group runs weekly rides each Sunday morning commencing from various locations, including Epping, Lalor, Thomastown, Bundoora, Mill Park, South Morang and Mernda. We cater for women and men of all abilities. We offer both a shorter, easier ride and a longer ride. Each ride has a break midway at a café for coffee/snacks and a friendly chat. We invite all interested bike riders to come along and enjoy a social ride with other like-minded people. Newcomers are welcome.

■ Glenn, 0434 730 163

Education and Community Centre

Do you or someone you know need help learning English or understanding Technology? Craigieburn Education and Community Centre is offering Free Beginner English and Computer classes to eligible residents. Small, relaxed and friendly classes, drop in and say hello at 20 Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn.

■ 9308 1477, or https://www.craigieburn.org.au

The Whittlesea Historical Society

The Whittlesea Historical Society meets on the third Sunday of each month at Whittlesea Bowls Club at 2pm (except January), Visitors are most welcome to

attend.

■ 0414 740 778, or www.whittleseahistoricalsociety.org.au

Grazing and Pasture Management

Join us on Thursday, May 25, for a free workshop to learn about successful grazing and pasture management for peri-urban properties. 7-9pm at the Kirrip Community Centre, 135 De Rossi Boulevard, Wollert. ■ https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/grazingand-pasture-management-for-peri-urbanproperty-tickets-594147610497

Coffee with council in Whittlesea

It’s Whittlesea’s turn to drop in and have a cuppa and chat with council on Tuesday, May 30 from 11am-1pm at Café 59 on Church located at 59 Church Street, Whittlesea

■ 9217 2170

Read, Play and Connect

Read, Play and Connect brings together our community at the local library for story time, games and activities with your children. Families can connect at your local community hub with the City of Whittlesea

Early Years team to be informed on services, programs and events happening in your Neighbourhood. Join in for the free event on Wednesday, May 31 from 10.30am-12pm at Thomastown Library, 52 Main Street, Thomastown.

■ 9404 8865

Supporting Healthy Masculinity

Gain confidence about supporting boys and young men to develop a positive sense of their evolving masculinity in this specialised workshop. This online workshop is free and will run on Thursday, May 25, from 7-8.30pm.

■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Supporting-Healthy-Masculinity-in-YoungPeople-567194523087#

Craft and conversation

Head down to the Sunbury Library on Mondays at noon for the craft and conversation group, for people 15 years and older.

■ https://bit.ly/39BIu2O

Community Gardens Open Day Westmeadows Indigenous Community Garden Members are hosting a monthly open day on the first Saturday of each month 10am-12 pm, to showcase the gardens. Corner Toora Drive and Redan Court, two entrance access. All are welcome.

■ Eva Mazzei, emmmazzei@gmail.com

Morning Tea

Meet and talk with Hume Council Laws Officers over morning tea. No agendas, just a chance to ask questions, raise concerns or get to know a little more about local laws. Tuesday, June 13, from 10.30-11.30am.

■ 9205 2760

Mill Park e-waste collection event

Free event to get rid of your unwanted small household electrical items in an environmentally friendly way, bring them to this E-waste collection event. Held on Wednesday, June 7, from 11am-1pm at Mill Park Softball Carpark (next to the Leisure Centre), 39 Morang Drive, Mill Park

■ Kate, 9401 0579

Chill Out Sunbury

Chill Out Sunbury is a free event for 12-18 years old to participate in activities such as trivia, games, and more. Happening every Wednesday, 3.30-5.30pm at the Sunbury Youth Centre, 51-53 Evans Street.

■ https://bit.ly/3lmVgVhv

Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club

Come along and be part of Sunbury Ladies Badminton Club and enjoy the benefits of physical activity. Social games are on Mondays, 9.30am to noon, and team competitions are on Thursdays, 9.30am-12.30pm at Eric Boardman Stadium, Wilsons Lane.

■ sunburylbc@gmail.com

Music and Singalong

Bring your instrument or your voice to a social group for adults, all skill sets welcome. Wednesdays 9am-noon, at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive Sunbury.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

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) 334759_01

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Husks of corn (5)

4 Workers

9 Support (7)

10 Of sufficient quality (2,2,3)

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)

2 Closest galaxy (9)

3 Public assembly (5)

4 Voter (7)

5 Former German state (7)

6 Social exclusion (9)

in disgrace (5)

DECODER WORDFIT

1 14

2 15

3 16

4 17

5 18

6 19

7 20

8 21

9 22

10 23

11 24

12 25

12 345678910111213

893614275

561872394

147596832 786925143

638241957 354168729

472359618

219437586

269735481

817952643

623874519

354128976 482397165

178469352 591246738

easy medium hard

945613827

736581294

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

653214978

539642781

127389546

925783461 318427695

491768352 964531827

782953164 275896413

846175239

T D S G D 19 words: Good 29 words: Very good 39 words: Excellent HEAVE HOSTS INANE INLET ISLES IVORY MATTE MOTHS NOTES OOZED OPTIC OZONE RIVET SCOPE SEEDS SLATE SNORE SOAKS SPEAR SPEED

E ABOVE AHEAD ALIVE AMONG AROMA ASIDE AURAL AVOWS BOATS CLOVE COMET COWED DICES DONOR DROLL EDGES EERIE FONTS GOUGE GREEK

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

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

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

No. 134

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

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

1 Was US athlete Mickey Mantle a famous a) basketball player, b) baseball player or c) football player?

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

Placing your classified advert is so easy...

Online: networkclassifieds.com.au (24/7)

Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri)

Email: sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

(include your name, address and phone number)

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(1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local office)

Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

Deadline for all classifications is 3:00pm Friday.

Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located at 138 W Darebin Dr, Lalor, VIC 3075 (-37.67328, 145.03715) www.rfnsa.com.au/3075003

1.Telstra Limited (A.C.N 051 775 556) are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities to allow for theintroductionof5GtoTelstra’snetwork.Aspartofthis network upgrade, Telstra proposes the installation of M700 (4G), NR850 (5G), DSS26 (4G/5G) and NR26G (5G) technologiesatLalorlocalityandsurrounds.

2.The proposed works at the above site include the removal of six (6) panel antennas and the installation of nine (9) 5G panel antennas (each no more than 2.8m long). The installation of three (3) RRUs and the removal and installation of associated ancillary equipment. All internal equipment will be housed withintheexistingequipmentshelterlocatedatthebase ofthefacility.

3.Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Exempt Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on theabovedescription.

4.In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or written submissions should be directed to Manon Gebauer, Aurecon Australasia Pty Ltd (A.B.N 54 005 139 873) via email to: manon.gebauer@aurecongroup.com or via post to: Manon Gebauer, Aurecon Australasia 5/863 Hay St, PerthWA6000by 5pm on 6 June 2023.

1.The proposed upgrade involves:

Replacement of the existing spoke headframe with one (1) new triangular headframe

Replacement of existing panel antennas with fifteen (15) new panel antennas Six (6) antennas measuring <2.8m in length Nine (9) antennas measuring <1.0m in length

Removal of existing mast-head amplifiers Installation of new remote radio units

Installation of ancillary equipment to ensure the safe and effective operation of the facility

2.Optus and Vodafone regard the proposed works as a Low-impact installation in accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the description above.

3.The proposed infrastructure will comply with the ACMA EMR regulatory arrangements.

4.In accordance with section 7 of the Industry Code, C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, you are invited to provide feedback about the proposal.

5.Comments will be accepted until Wednesday 7 June 2023 (COB)

6.Further information, requests and/or comments should be directed to: Liz Easton, Ventia E: liz.easton@ventia.com | Ph. 0486 027 877 12606625-HC21-23

General Classifieds

School Canteen Services

Expressions of interest are invited for the provision of canteen services at Aitken Hill Primary School commencing from 10 July 2023.

Interested parties are invited to attend a site inspection of Aitken Hill Primary School canteen facilities at a time to be arranged at 2 Rhyolite Drive Craigieburn.

Please contact our office to book a time and obtain the tender documentation by emailing aitken.hill.ps@education.vic.gov.au.

Applications close at 4pm on Friday 26 May 2023 and must be submitted via email to Aitken.hill.ps@educationl.vic.gov.au.

Enquiries to Pete Hansen (Principal) or Deb Wilson (Business Manager) on 8377 1000. 12605056-AV21-23

TIONACT1970(VIC)This advertisementispublishedinaccordancewith Section62(3A)oftheEnvironmentProtectionAct 1970(Vic).TheEnvironmentProtectionAuthority herebygivesnoticeofits intentiontoregistera statutorychargeoverthe propertyknownas,and situatedat,82-88Maffra Street,Coolaroointhe StateofVictoria. Thechargeisimposedfor theamountincurredby theEnvironmentProtectionAuthorityforitsreasonablecostsofthecleanupoftheproperty,pursuanttoSection62(2)of theEnvironmentProtectionAct1970(Vic),being anamountof $28,797,163.18asat 2 May2023.

FCWLawyersSolicitors fortheEnvironment ProtectionAuthority Level17,130Lonsdale StreetMelbourneVic 3000(08)86729770

TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION LOCATED AT LALOR

MODEL RANGE

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)

Eagles making their mark as the team to beat

Uni Hill Eagles didn’t plan on coming in FV state league 3 north-west quietly and the team has quickly proven they are a team to beat this season.

Last season’s state league 4 north premiers, the Eagles have continued that same form into season.

After eight rounds, the Eagles sit second on the ladder, four points behind leaders Heidelberg Eagles.

Eagles president Firass Ibrahim is thrilled.

“It’s our first year in state league 3 and we are second on the ladder,” he said.

“Carl Recchia, who was a Melbourne Victory inaugural player is our coach, and has created a great culture in the change rooms.

“We don’t want to be making up the numbers.”

Ibrahim said they were keen to earn a second straight promotion to help the club continue up the ranks.

He said they’re in a very different situation to many of the other sides in the competition.

“There’s teams that have been around for decades, no one has really known who we

are,” he said.

“We’ve only been around for six or seven years. We’re looking to get promoted this year.

“The club is still a baby club being in state league 3 is our highest achievement, for most of the other clubs it’s the bottom peak.”

The Eagles played Point Cook on Saturday in round nine.

The Eagles led 1-0 at half time, before two second half goals sealed the 3-0 win.

Bajiou Yousif scored a hat trick.

The Eagles remain in second spot, four points behind the Heidelberg Eagles.

Ibrahim said while things were tracking well for their men’s sides, it was across the board they were seeing massive growth.

Theirwomen’sside,whichisplayinginstate

league 3 for the first time, is sitting in fourth spot.

He said from a junior perspective, they have more than 200 juniors playing this season.

“We’re doing really well and we have our first full under-14 girls team which is undefeated after four weeks.

“We have three under-14 teams, an under-15s, under-16s and multiple MiniRoos sides.”

The club has also signed a 10-year contract withWatsmithPaintandPaneltobetheclub’s major sponsor.

As part of the deal, the club’s female program is receiving extra support.

in other state league 3 north-west results, Craigieburn City fell short against the Eagles, losing 3-2.

The Eagles led 2-0 after 26 minutes before City hit back in the 33rd minute to reduce the gap.

The Eagles took the lead back out to two goals in the 58th minute, before City got a consolation goal in the 74th minute.

Tara Murray

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Northern FL

Epping has announced coaches as it prepares to field a women’s side in the Northern Football League for the first time next season. The Pingers announced on social media that Sarah Scheggia would be their inaugural coach with Travis Holmberg to be their assistant coach.

“Sarah Scheggia has played football for 10 years and over 150 games,” the club said on social media. “Travis is a very talented and smart footballer. Usually playing as a key forward or just as comfortable playing in the ruck. “Travis made his senior debut at 18. He joined Epping in 2022 until injury has stopped him. Details: womensfooty@eppingfc.com.au

VSDCA

Tegan Hindle (Ljubica Vrankovic) 335896_21

Broncos in winning form

By Tara Murray

Hume City Broncos are hoping their win against the Sherbrooke Suns on Saturday night will kick start their Big V women’s state championship season.

The young Broncos side which is focused on development this season, played their best game of the year against the Suns.

Playinginfrontofabigcrowdathomeasthe club marked pink round, the Broncos started slow before finding their feet in the second quarter.

A three point half time lead turned into a 15 point one heading into the final quarter. The Broncos were able to hold solid in the final quarter to seal a 102-87 win.

Broncos coach Tim Devlin was thrilled with the result.

“We had a great win,” he said. “Obviously every win is important to get on the board.

“Fromthelearningsideofthings,weshowed thatwecouldbecompetitivewithareallygood side like Sherbrooke for four quarters which was great.”

Devlin said they started a bit nervously having spoken about what the night meant as a whole to the club, not just on the court.

He said once they settled into their game they played some really good basketball.

“We were able to match them physically,” he said. “We learned a couple of things when we played them a couple of weeks ago.

“Wealsomadesomeshots,I’mreallyhappy.”

With a 15 point lead, the Broncos knew that the Suns would come at them late in the piece. Devlinsaidtheyplayedsomegoodbasketball in the last quarter, but they were able to match it.

The Broncos had six players score in double figures, led by Tegan Hindle off the bench with 27 points.

Delvin said they were hoping it would be a breakout game for her.

“She had 27 points, six rebounds, five assists andacoupleofsteals,itwasaripperofanight,” he said.

“We’ve known that she has the capability to produce it and she did last night which was really good.”

The win was the Broncos third of the season, with the side now sitting sixth on the ladder.

Devlin hopes this is the start of something they can build on for the rest of the season.

“We should be able to get some confidence from that,” he said.

“Thatshouldbethestandardeveryweekand we can’t be slipping off.”

The Broncos this week face the Sunbury Jets on Sunday at Boardman Stadium.

Devlin said despite getting the win earlier in the season against the Jets, they were taking anything for granted with the Jets since getting two imports into their side.

While the Broncos women got the win, the Broncos men fell short against Wyndham in a top of the table clash.

Wyndham jumped out of the blocks and led by eight points at quarter time, before the Broncos led by five points at the main break, The second half was all Wyndham as it won 98-85. Chris Elder top scored with 25 for the Broncos.

Wyndham now sits top of the table ahead of the Broncos.

Plenty Valley’s Henry Cullen has been recognised for a strong Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association season. Cullen was named in the team of the year as the wicketkeeper following a season where he made 691 runs and taking 18 catches and making five stumpings. Cullen also finished in the top 12 of the Val Holten award for the best players after leading the count after eight rounds.

VSDCA

Plenty Valley has appointed Scott McNaughton as its male program head coach for the next Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association season. McNaughton is a level 3 high performance accredited coach with Cricket Australia and has an extensive coaching record which includes coaching abroad, where he was responsible for Japan’s international men’s and women’s teams. In Australia, he has coached at Victorian Premier Cricket level both in Tasmania and Victoria. James Plunkett has been named chairman of selectors and Daniel Heatley assistant coach.

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Uni Hill Eagles early in season 2023 (Supplied)

Hume through, Whittlesea Ranges knocked out

Hume City’s Australia Cup dream remains alive, while the Whittlesea Ranges have been knocked out of the competition.

The two sides were among the first of the 20 remaining in Victoria, to play their round six matches.

Hume, which has won through to the national stage multiple times before, beat the Eastern Lions on Wednesday night, 3-0.

Josh Bingham opened the scoring through a penalty in the fourth minute, before Mark Ochieng doubled the lead in the 23rd minute.

Dylan McGlade put the icing on the cake in the 50th minute, to all but seal the result.

Speaking before the game to Hume TV, captain Harry Monaghan said it was a good opportunity for the group to just go out and play.

“Every game is a new opportunity to put things right, to get back on track,” he said.

“It’s been an interesting couple of weeks recently, the boys have been through a bit, we’re focused,

“We know the job, we’re focusing on the game tonight and getting the result.”

Like new coach Colin Cooper, Monaghan said the group know they aren’t too far away from turning some average results into good results.

In the National Premier League

competition, Hume is without a win in their last four matches and sit ninth on the table.

“We’re not far away from it, Coops touched on it when he came in,” he said.

“We’ve got to be consistent on what we’re

Bears even the ledger

By Tara Murray

Consistency is the key for Thomastown to take its game to the next level in the Northern Football League division 2 this season.

A win on Saturday resulted in the Bears levelling the ledger at 3-3 after the first six rounds.

CoachPeterBugdensaidtheladderreflected how their season has been so far.

“It was an important win for us,” he said, “Weare3-3buthavebeenveryinconsistent. We are making a lot of ground in a lot of areas, but we need to apply our best football consistently, week to week.

“When we are good, we are really good. When we’re ordinary, we’re ordinary for three quarters.”

Bugdensaidwhilesomeoftheinconsistency was getting the mix right as a group, it’s also the players making sure they put the hard work in.

He said they’ve got a lot of good coaches who provide both positive and negative feedback, but it’s about building that two-way relationship between them.”

On Saturday, the Bears had a pretty solid performance against Lower Plenty.

InthebattleoftheBears,itwasThomastown that jumped out of the blocks in the first quarter with 15 scoring shots to four and were able to build the next two quarters.

Lower Plenty won the final quarter, but the damage had been done with Thomastown winning 16.22 (118)-10.4 (64).

Bugdensaiditwasagoodteamperformance.

“I think we started really well,” he said. “We knew they are a side that is rebuilding.

“I suppose at the end of the day it was more about consistent effort and more a team performance,whichwegotatickinthatarea.”

Anthony Capeci kicked four goals for Thomastown, while Bill Samie kicked three goals.

Bugden said James Rizzollo, Anthony Bradford, Michael Tang, Adrian Natoll, and Capeci were some of the better players.

“When you have a good spread of contributors like we did it gives you a good chance to win,” he said.”

Thomastown now sits fifth on the ladder. This Saturday they face Panton Hill which is on the same record.

Bugden said they just needed to be consistent in the effort and application and if they’re good enough the results will come their way.

In other results, South Morang got its fourth win of the season with victory against Watsonia.

The Lions took the lead in the first quarter

but were never able to blow the Saints away.

They did just enough to get a 15.12 (102)-12.14 (86) win.

Gary Moorcroft kicked seven for South Morang, while Joshua D’Intinosante kicked five goals in a best on ground performance.

Epping remains without a win, after a loss to Northcote Park. Northcote Park started

doing, something will click for us, [and we’ll] go on that run.”

It’s been a busy few weeks for Hume, with two successive weeks with two matches, Australia Cup and NPL.

Hume faced Altona Magic on Saturday in the NPL competition, winning 1-0.

Monaghan said the playing group preferred to play inside the train, so they were quite happy with the back-to-back matches.

Meanwhile, the Ranges, who had already upset some National Premier League sides, in the Australia Cup were knocked out.

The Ranges travelled to Shepparton to face the Goulburn Valley Suns on Tuesday night.

Scores were locked at 0-0 at half time, with the Suns going a man down just before the break after a red card.

The Suns scored early in the second half to take the lead.

The Ranges levelled the scores in the 68h minute through Anton Nardella.

TwoquickgoalsgavetheSunstheleadagain and they were able to hold on to win, 3-1.

Tara Murray

Baker-West named most valuable player

Calder Cannons young gun Chloe Baker-West’s performances on the national stage have been recognised, named Vic Metro’s most valuable player attheunder-16nationalchampionships.

Baker-West was named the Victoria Metro’s best player in both their games with the side losing both of their matches.

Coaches of the Victorian Metro team selected her as their most valuable player.

Baker-West, whose local club is Strathmore, was also named in the All-Australianteamforthecompetition, named in a back pocket.

Northern Knights’ Marlo Graham was named on a half forward flank.

The All-Australian team features players from seven different teams. Western Australia has six players selected, while Gold Coast Suns Academy and South Australia each have five representatives.

Western Australia midfielder Mia Russo was named the best and fairest for pool A, while Ava Usher from the GoldCoastSunsAcademytookoutpool B best and fairest.

Russo averaged 24 disposals per game for Western Australia, which included 32 contested possessions across both matches. Usher averaged 25.5 disposals, 5.5 tackles, six clearances and a goal a game.

The best and fairest awards were selected by a panel comprising Kevin Sheehan (AFL Talent Ambassador –Chair), Tarkyn Lockyer (AFL National Academy coach-manager), Tanya Hetherington (AFL talent development coach), Jess Smith (AFL national female talent manager) and AFLW club recruiters Phoebe Carter (Sydney Swans), Jordan Loxley (West Coast Eagles), Trent Moseby (Richmond) and Anthony Tang (St Kilda).

well and was able to build throughout on the way to a 14.12 (96)-4.7 (31) win.

Luke Lirosi kicked three goals for the Pingers and was named their best.

In division 1, Bundoora and Whittlesea both suffered losses to Greensborough and West Preston-Lakeside respectively.

South Australia and Brisbane Lions claimed title wins, with South Australia taking out the pool A title by winning both games in the round-robin series, while the Lions narrowly edged out the Gold Coast Suns Academy on percentage in pool B after both teams were undefeated.

Harry Monaghan (Jacob Pattison)330726_06

Michael Tang (NWM Sports)

Tigers elated to get a second win on the board

Westmeadows got its second win of the Essendon District Football League women’s premier division season, beating Strathmore on Saturday.

Having watched their men’s side get their first win for the season beforehand, the Tigers women’s side produced one of their better performances for the season.

It was a high scoring first quarter with both teams kicking three goals for the term with the Mores leading by a point at the first break.

The Tigers kicked two goals in the second quarter to open up a 10 point lead and the margin remained the same heading into the final quarter.

The margin stayed steady in the final quarter with a goal each, to give the Tigers a 6.1 (37)-4.4 (28).

Taylor Jones kicked three goals for the Tigers, while Ruby Smith and Gemma Wright

were named in the best alongside her.

Sharon Mumford was named the Mores best.

The win moves Westmeadows off the bottom of the ladder.

Keilor suffered a third straight loss, this time at the hands of Aberfeldie.

The club’s that have won the last three women’s premierships put on a show with the match going down to the wire.

The Blues led 20-0 at quarter time before Abers worked their way into the game and had levelled the scores heading into the final quarter.

There were just three scoring shots in the final quarter, with a point proving vital for Abers to get the 4.4 (28)-4.3 (27) win.

Aberfeldie remains on top, while Keilor sits in fourth spot.

Moonee Valley and Oak Park were the other winners.

In division 1, Greenvale had its toughest test so far against Burnside Heights.

The Jets kicked three early goals and extended the margin to 27 points at half time. The Bears were able to reduce the margin slightly in the third quarter.

The Jets finished strongly, kicking two goals to one in the final quarter to seal the 9.3 (57)-3.3 (21).

Nicolette Paschalls kicked three goals for the Jets, while Teira Fry was named their best.

It was a tough day for Tullamarine against Essendon Doutta Stars.

TheStarscameawaywithabigwin,winning 15.15 (105)-1.1 (7).

Courtney Annett was the goal scorer for the Demons and was named their best.

In division 2, Airport West, Aberfeldie 2, Maribyrnong Park 2 and Moonee Valley 2 were the winners.

Tigers break through

By Tara Murray

There was a mixture of emotions on Saturday as Westmeadows broke through for its first win of the Essendon District Football League division 1 season.

With a new coach and new playing group it has taken a while for the Tigers to settle into the season.

On Saturday, the Tigers were able to show their nerve late in the final quarter to come from behind against Keilor Park to win, 13.9 (87)-11.10 (76).

For Tigers coach Ash Flavel it was a pretty good feeling to get his first win as coach under his belt.

“It feels really good,” he said. “Seeing the smiles on the faces of the players, it’s a reward for all the hard work. Not just the players, but for us coaches the whole club. It was a fantastic way to end the day.”

The day was a special one for the Tigers with Ryan Capron and Jarrod Peterson playing their 300th games.

Flavel said the group had been keen to win for the pair.

“Our two captains Ryan and Jarrod… They are the most loyal blokes at Westy,” he said.

“They stuck by me when a lot left for various reasons. It was a special day for them.”

Once the game got underway, it was the Tigers that got off to the good start and led by 27 points at the main break.

The Devils, who have won three games this season, started to come in the second half.

Flavel knew they had work to for it.

“It was to and fro for the first bit of the game,” he said. “The third quarter is usually our worst quarter for the year and they came out and kicked a couple of goals.

“We were still in front, but in the last quarter they kicked the first two or three goals and led by 13-14 points. We were able to come back in the last 10-15 minutes. The way the boys rallied in the last quarter and responded and got confidence, I’m really proud.”

Ethan Councillor kicked three goals for the Tigers, while three others kicked two goals

apiece.

It was a 16-year-old who was best on ground according to Flavel.

“Kieran Gallagher is a young fellow out of the 16s,” he said. “He’s in the Cannons under-18 program and we’re blessed to have had him the last few weeks with the Cannons not playing.”

Ruck Finbar Delbridge and Capron were the other stand outs in what was a really good team performance.

The win moves the Tigers ahead of Glenroy on the table. With Moonee Valley getting its first win of the season, the bottom three teams are all equal on points.

Flavel knows how important it is to start getting a few more wins on the board, with two teams to be relegated at the end of the season.

“Our draw gets easier. We play a lot of the side’s around us, it’s must win games in the next three to four weeks.”

The Tigers this week face Craigieburn, which lost to West Coburg on Saturday.

Andrea Gobbo (Ljubica Vrankovic) 335904_17

Turnball adds experience to the Demons

Mernda has locked in Rob Turnbull as itscoachfortheDiamondValleyCricket Association Mash Shield season.

Turnbull joins the Demons after a tough season where their first XI won one game and finished bottom of the Money Shield table, which will result in the side being relegated. Their second XI had a much better season, making the grand final in the C-grade competition, falling short agaisnt Riverside.

Turnbull brings plenty of experience to the club.

“Rob brings a mountain of high-level experience to the club,” the club said on social media.

“He started his cricket journey in the Diamond Valley, before moving on to have a successful career at Vic Premier Club, Northcote, then a long career in England where he played until he recently made the move home to Australia with his family.

“He amassed 39 hundreds with a highest score of 209, and boasts best bowling figures of 7-18.”

The Demons said Turnbull had played against the likes Jimmy Anderson, Andrew Flintoff, Brad Hodge, Jamie Siddons and Merv Hughes and played on grounds like the iconic MCG and Old Trafford in Manchester.

He was selected for Victoria, before a back injury intervened.

“Rob’s already getting his hands dirty and can’t wait for the new challenges that await as he leads our club into its next era,” the club said.

Turnbull coached Moonee Ponds last season.

Rob Turnbull is the new coach of Mernda. (Supplied)

Ryan Capron (Shawn Smits)