Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 30th May 2023

(Damjan Janevski) 336998_04

Big stage beckons

For the team at K&K Calisthenics, Saturdays are usually filled with classes. This won’t be the case on Saturday, June 10, as members head to the Calisthenics Victoria’s development team competition and show support for two teammates.

Allison, 10, and Ella, 14, have made the inaugural north-west development team, an exciting opportunity that extends skills and development in calisthenics through representation.

K&K Calisthenics is celebrating its 10th year in the north-west and club principal Kim Dunstan said the entire club is extremely proud of the girls’ achievement.

“This is the first year of the new development team and we are very proud of our two girls,” she said.

“We [our club] are in the lower end of the division, so for our girls to be in the development team of the state is a big achievement.”

The competition will kick off its inaugural year at the Frankston Arts Centre on Saturday, June 10. Ms Dunstan said lots of members want to “be there to support the girls and see them shine.”

Bridge design unveiled

By Hannah Hammoud

Final designs have been released for a new road bridge over the Sunbury rail line which will allow the Calder Park Drive level crossing to be removed for good.

In good news for Brimbank locals, the level crossing removal is set to improve traffic flow and will mean the nearby level crossing at Holden Road can be closed permanently, making journeys faster and local roads safer, the state government said.

Boom gates can be down for more than 20 per cent of the morning peak at these locations, when 25 trains pass through the crossings,

causing delays for 10,000 vehicles each day, according to government data.

With more trains planned to run on the line once the Metro Tunnel opens, the removal of the level crossings will help to ease congestion and allow more trains to run more often.

Community feedback informed the design features which include more than 100,000 new, mostly native trees, plants and grasses, better pedestrian and cycling connections and improved lighting. The design will also complement the Banchory Grove Grasslands, with the finish on the bridge reflecting the nearby iconic Organ Pipes National Park.

Thenewroadbridgedesignisfuture-proofed

to allow for a future road duplication required as the area grows and develops, with a new shared use path to improve local connections and link to future walking and cycling paths.

A temporary road will be built alongside Calder Park Drive to minimise disruptions during major construction.

Construction is set to begin soon with site establishmentfollowinga$115millioncontract awarded to an alliance comprising Fulton Hogan, Metro Trains Melbourne and the Level Crossing Removal Project.

Major works will begin in late-2023 and the Calder Park Drive level crossing will be gone for good and Holden Road closed by 2025.

Ella and Allison are on their way to the Victorian Calisthenics development team competition.

Design impression for the Calder Park Drive road over rail bridge. (Supplied)

Apply now for a Brimbank Community Grant

The Brimbank Community Grants Program for 2023/2024 is now open for applications.

The program offers one-off financial assistance to not-forprofit organisations, and incorporated community groups, to deliver projects and activities that benefit our community.

From 2024, a new Responsive Grants category (up to $2,000) and the existing Establishment Grants (up to $1,500) will also be offered all year round and assessed three times a year.

Community grants

Grants are available in these categories:

• Community Strengthening Grants up to $10,000

• Climate Emergency Grants up to $10,000

• Establishment Grants up to $1,500

• Mental Health and Wellbeing Grants up to $10,000

• Young People’s Ideas Grants up to $10,000

• Community Festival and Event Grants up to $10,000

• Major Festival and Event Grants up to $25,000

• Seniors Operational Grants up to $1,000

Applications close on Sunday 16 July 2023. For more information on how to apply and eligibility visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/grants or call the Grants Hotline on 9249 4036

Get Work Ready

Have you had a career break, and want to return to the workforce?

Healthy Eating Seminars

As part of our commitment to supporting your health and wellbeing, we have organised fun and interactive seminars covering a range of healthy eating topics. Come along and learn tips and tricks for cooking nutritious meals from leading experts in the field.

See the range of dates and topics for all ages being presented at a Neighbourhood House or Community Centre near you. Visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/events

for more information about each seminar and to reserve your spot. The seminars run till 16 June 2023

World Environment Day

Celebrate World Environment Day at the Stepping Stones, Kororoit Creek Trail, in Sunshine West.

We’re hosting a planting day with Friends of Kororoit Creek on Saturday 3 June, 2023

The event will include activities for the whole family and end with a no-charge barbecue.

Registration is essential at brimbank.vic.gov. au/events

Family fears for teen’s safety

By Cassandra Morgan, AAP

The family of a teenager wanted over a fatal stabbing fear for his safety as police attempt to stave off retaliation attacks.

A search is under way for the Hillside youth after 16-year-old Pa Sawm Lyhym was fatally stabbed at the Sunshine bus station in Melbourne’s west on Thursday.

Policearepleadingforthe17-year-oldtoturn himself in, alleging he’s a “significant player” in the incident and urging the public not to approach him and instead call triple zero.

Officers do not know if he is armed.

“People need to be aware that if you are harbouringorassisting(him)toavoidspeaking topolice,thentheymayfindthemselvessubject to accessory to this murder,” Victoria Police homicide squad Detective Inspector Dean Thomas said on Tuesday.

Police allege a fight between two groups of teenagers on Thursday afternoon led to the 16-year-old’s death, with another boy hospitalised and a third treated at the scene for injuries.

A 17-year-old Caroline Springs youth and an 18-year-old Burnside man were previously interviewed by police before being released from custody, but Det Insp Thomas stressed the duo remained subject to investigation.

Investigators are yet to determine the

motivation behind the fatal stabbing, but have said the two groups were involved in “tit-for-tat” incidents in the lead-up to the fight.

Police harbour fears for potential retaliation attacks.

Officersareconducting“reassurancepatrols” in relevant areas, with the teenagers involved understood to attend schools in Melbourne’s west.

The 17-year-old Hillside youth was last home onFridayandhisfamilywasco-operatingwith officers.

Det Insp Thomas acknowledged it was a possibility someone else could get to him before police.

“His family are concerned about that also, that whilst he does remain in the community ... there is a risk to his own safety,” he said.

“We’re concerned whether he gets in volved in further acts of violence.”

Det Insp T homas urged families to take responsibility for their children and said police were working with the community to combat the violence.

“The majority of young people don’t carry knives, but unfortunately we see the ones that do,” he said.

Police described the 17-year-old as between 185 and 190 centimetres tall, with a slim build and short black hair in a dreadlocks style.

This job-ready workshop guides participants through two interactive sessions.

The workshop runs at St Albans Library on Monday 5 and 19 June 2023, 1-2.30pm. Visit brimbanklibraries. vic.gov.au to learn more.

Brimbank Business Breakfast

Leading expert on business innovation, sustainability and co-founder of Planet Ark, Jon Dee is the guest speaker at the Brimbank Business Breakfast on 9 June 2023

The breakfast will be held at the Mt Derrimut Golf and Community Club, 7-9am. Tickets cost $35 and bookings are required. Visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/events to learn more and book.

Budget lift up for WERN

The incredible team at Western Emergency Relief Network (WERN) have received a $200,000 funding boost to help them continue to serve and support the local community.

Your

Cr Victoria Borg 0429 365 527 CrBorg@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Sarah Branton 0407 836 064 CrBranton@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Thuy Dang 0437 744 803 CrDang@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Sam David JP 0429 355 239 CrDavid@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Maria Kerr 0437 796 630 CrKerr@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Bruce Lancashire (Mayor) 0429 637 689 CrLancashire@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Jasmine Nguyen 0437 740 042 CrNguyen@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Thomas O’Reilly 0409 210 431 CrOReilly@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Jae Papalia 0437 838 710 CrPapalia@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Ranka Rasic (Deputy Mayor) 0437 861 296 CrRasic@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Virginia Tachos 0428 915 671 CrTachos@brimbank.vic.gov.au

The Victorian state budget released on Tuesday,May23,included$200,000forWERN that will in part go toward installing a new lift at the organisation’s premises.

WERN administration manager Ross Butterworth said the lift will allow the organisation to engage with people with disability whether it be volunteering with WERN or accessing the programs and services available.

“The long term goal is to have the ability to offer training to people with disabilities,” he said.

Mr Butterworth said that this will in turn help to grow the organisation’s volunteer base.

“Since the pandemic there has been a

dramatic increase in need in the community,” he said.

“We are a network of 60 agencies and we provide support to the clients of those agencies… getting people to volunteer with us is a significant cog in the program.”

Mr Butterworth said the organisation has been building funds to go toward installing a lift but were a long way away from meeting the building cost.

“Without this funding it would’ve meant a much longer delay in offering people with disabilities the opportunity to volunteer and complete training with WERN to get job-ready for the workforce,” he said.

“The government obviously thinks that what our organisation does is worthwhile and they want to support us.”

Hannah Hammoud

Councillors are always happy to hear from you

Demand is soaring for services and support at Western Emergency Relief Network. Pictured is administration manager Ross Butterworth, Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch and chair person Tony Ebejer. (Damjan Janevski) 337016_04

Jumping castle arsonist jailed

An “obsessed” jumping-castle company owner whohiredarsoniststoburnrivalbusinesses“to the ground” has been jailed for up to 11 years.

James Balcombe, 58, pleaded guilty at the Victorian County Court to 11 counts of conspiring to commit arson.

He ordered hits on competitors’ industrial premises in Tullamarine, Werribee, Hoppers Crossing, Hallam, Keysborough and Warragul to varying effect in late 2016-early 2017.

At the time, the Awesome Party Hire owner was growing a successful business for the first time. But he became “fixated” and “obsessed” with out-doing his rivals, sentencing judge Stewart Bayles noted on May 18.

Hired for $2000 a job, the arsonists smashed factory windows, poured petrol and threw Molotov cocktails inside. Many of the fires didn’t take hold, including at Hallam and Keysborough.

In contrast, a competitor’s Hoppers Crossing factory, its contents and a truck – in effect the entire business – were completely destroyed, causing a devastating $1.48 million loss. Among the destroyed items were 110 jumping castles worth $80,000 as well as children’s petrol Jeeps, racing go-karts, a stock racing car, a mechanical bull and a forklift.

The uninsured husband-and-wife couple tried but failed to rebuild their business using

Going pink for cancer

Overnewton Auskick is preparing to ‘pink up’ as it hosts a Pink Sports Day on Saturday, June 3 in support of Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA).

The community is invited to head down to the oval and support not only the kids participating on the day, but also those in the local community who have been affected by breast cancer.

Pink lady figures will be placed on the oval to acknowledge and appreciate those in the community who have endured, or are experiencing difficult times.

Centre co-ordinator Joe Hartwig said the teamhavebeenbusyraisingfundssellingraffle tickets in the lead up to the day.

“We are big supporters of BCNA and we’re hoping to raise as much funds as we can,” he said. “We want to do anything that we can to help.”

Each year hundreds of clubs across Australia take part to show their support for Australians affected by breast cancer. This year Overnewton Auskick will join sporting groups nationwide as they rally together in a bid to raise $500,000.

BCNA chief executive Kirsten Pilatti said hosting a Pink Sports Day presents an opportunity for all sporting communities to support local people affected by breast cancer.

“Pink Sports Day raises funds to provide support for the more than 20,000 Australians who will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year,” Ms Pilatti said.

Pink Sports Day will be held at 9am at Overnewton Anglican College Taylors Lakes campus on Saturday, June 3, with lots of raffle ticket prizes on offer.

their savings.

The damage extended beyond physical property but caused “enormous” loss, suffering and emotional trauma, Judge Bayles noted. After that job, Balcombe told the arsonist he wanted all jobs done like that.

In Tullamarine, a party-hire van was set alight with fuel and destroyed. Balcombe told his co-offenders he was not happy and unwilling to pay them, due to not burning the factory. Balcombe ordered his hitmen to re-do failed attempts – up to another two times at some premises.

Finally, Balcombe ordered a fire which destroyed his own business shed in Kangaroo

Ground to deflect suspicion. He filed a fraudulent insurance claim for $1.1 million. After his arrest, Balcombe absconded while on bail to Western Australia. He was located by policetwoyearslater,sportingalongbeardand wig as well as false IDs.

Two of the three co-offenders have been jailed. Judge Bayles said Balcombe as the “apex” or instigator was the most culpable. He noted Balcombe had never been diagnosed or treated for his long-standing mental health conditions, as well as his guilty plea. The accused’s rehabilitation prospects were “difficult to assess”. He will be eligible for parole after serving seven years and 10 months.

Overnewton Auskick is raising funds for Breast Cancer Network Australia. Pictured are: Jacob, 7 (front), Chloe, 8, Tegan, 8, and Riley, 10. (Damjan Janevski) 336972_04

Hannah Hammoud

Infrastructure shadow remains

Brimbank has come out of the state budget with a number of wins, but a shadow continues to loom over big ticket infrastructure projects. Delivering on an election promise, Sydenham-Hillside Primary School will receive funding of $9.5 million to upgrade and modernise existing school facilities, while there is also $7.4 million for University Park Primary School.

The budget includes $30.8 million for the AlbionStationupgradeinthe2023-24financial year, as part of the $80 million funding announcement made in 2022. However, the Sunshine Station masterplan was left without funding.

More than $10.6 million is set to go toward improving the Calder Freeway, however the project is pending the outcome of the Commonwealth Infrastructure Investment Program (CIIR) review which will decide if the funding gets axed.

Question marks continue to hang over the much anticipated Suburban Rail Link which hasbeenallocated$600millionforthe2023-24 financial year but is also subject to the pending CIIR review.

Brimbank council said it was concerned about the status of funding for the Sunshine Precinct Masterplan, Calder Freeway and Melbourne Airport Rail.

“ … We need to keep up pressure on the Victorian government to follow through with funding for strategic projects which are vital for long term economic benefit of the city and the state, including the Sunshine Station Masterplan, Calder Freeway upgrade and the Melbourne Airport Rail,” mayor Bruce Lancashire said.

The government plans to spend $46 million teaching the next generation of paramedics, including training an additional 40 Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance paramedics and establishing a Centre for Paramedicine in partnership with Victoria University at Sunshine.

Sunshine Hospital will join seven other hospitals across the state in receiving new PET scanners as part of a $44 million investment.

The state budget has also provided funding to complete a business case for upgrading the Western Highway between Melton and Caroline Springs.

Brimbank will welcome one of six new tech schools to be built in Victoria, with a pool of $84 million in shared funding.

Leading up to the state budget, Brimbank council’s wish list included hopes for a new dog park in the Sydenham electorate and an upgrade of the 1st Deer Park Scouts facilities, both of which secured funding.

Meet the cohealth team caring for community

cohealth is inviting the community to drop-in to the Brimbank mental health and wellbeing local at an open day afternoon on Wednesday, June 7.

The Brimbank Local provides free, walk-in, no referral required health and wellbeing support to adults in Brimbank.

The not-for-profit organisation welcomes community members, local services, and faith groups to pay a visit and get to know the space and the dedicated team from 3-6pm at 45 Dickson Street, Sunshine.

Guests will be able to meet staff, give their thoughts on what services are needed in the community and learn what the Brimbank Local offers.

Using flowers with connections to the Brimbank area, guests will also be invited to make their own flower bouquet in an activity centred around the idea of flourishing.

cohealth mental health and wellbeing coach

Tam Le said flourishing happens when a community is supported and happy.

“We hope the Brimbank Local continues to grow to become a place that supports people to

connect, try new things, and find joy,” Ms Le said.

Speaking in her first language, Vietnamese, Ms Le said, “Hãy d?n v?i nhau và thi?t k? m?t d?ch v? phù h?p v?i nhu c?u c?a b?n. Chúng tôi

mu?n nghe t? b?n”, which translates to, “Let’s come together and design a service that suits your needs. We want to hear from you.”

Ms Le said the team hopes people will take the opportunity to drop in, say hello and get to see that the service is safe, non-judgemental and available for everyone.

“We want people to know that if they or their loved ones are ever having a tough time, this service is there for them,” she said.

The open day is a chance to celebrate the community who have contributed so much to Brimbank Local, from the initial consultation stages, to the design of the building and the delivery of services.

All are welcome at the open day, keeping with the welcoming nature of the service itself which operates with a ‘no wrong door’ policy.

Hannah Hammoud

Guests will be invited to make their own flower bouquet at the open day afternoon on Wednesday, June 6. (Supplied)

A wacky writing class

Students at Taylors Lakes Secondary College celebrated Education Week in style with a visit from popular children’s author Oliver Phommavanh.

As part of the school’s Excellence and High Abilities Program, library staff at Taylors Lakes Secondary College organised for Phommavanh to present to year 7 students.

Teacher-librarian Penny Earl said it was a great opportunity for students to hear from a successful author.

“Having a young adult author visit your school is one of the most motivating ways of getting students to read and write more,” she said. “Oliver Phommavanh was able to weave his magic with our students and was able to spread his message of reading and writing in an engaging and humorous manner. The students loved him.”

Using his experience as a primary school

Dynon Road closed in both directions

teacher, Phommavanh shares his passion for writing with kids and has performed at various comedy and writers festivals around Australia and Asia.

Author of Thai-riffic!, Con-nerd, Punchlines, Thai-no-mite, Stuff Happens: Ethan, The OtherChristy , SuperCon-nerd, NaturalBorn Loser , Don’t Follow Vee and Brain Freeze Phommavanh’s books are packed with laughs but also share the story of authentic characters living in a multicultural Australia.

What about Thao, Phommavanh’s most recent novel, is a 2023 Children’s Book Council of Australia Notable Book for Younger Readers.

Phommavanh’s visit on May 19, coincided with Education Week and was also in support of the library’s Victorian Premiers’ Reading Challenge reading program.

Hannah Hammoud

Briefs

Home invasion arrests

Four males have been arrested over a home invasion in Quinella Close, Kielor Park. on Wednesday. The victim, a 33-year-old man, ran outside and allegedly observed the males running away before getting into a grey 2016 Mercedes B G63 wagon. It is alleged the group then drove straight towards the victim before getting out of the vehicle armed with machetes. It is believed the victim managed to escape the property with his partner, baby and dog. The group then allegedly fled in the Mercedes and the victim’s white Volkswagen Golf. The males were arrested in Yarraville on Thursday. Two of the men were remanded in custody, while a third was bailed to appear at a children’s court.The fourth man was released pending further inquiries,

L plater charged

A 16-year-old learner driver from Kings Park has been charged with with dangerous driving causing death and driving as a learner while unaccompanied over the death of a pedestrian in Keilor Downs. Police were called to Taylors Road about 5.30am on Tuesday over reports a car had mounted a kerb and struck a pedestrian who was on the footpath. The pedestrian, a 29-year-old man from Kealba, died at the scene.

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Dynon Road between Dryburgh St and the CityLink inbound exit ramp will be closed in both directions from 8pm Friday 16 June to 5am Thursday 31 August so we can continue strengthening the Dynon Road Bridge.

Buses will also replace trains on the Werribee, Williamstown and Sunbury lines from 8pm Friday 23 June to last service Sunday 9 July. Delays are expected.

Thanks for your patience

We’re widening the bridge at Dynon Road over the rail lines to build new connections to the city as part of the West Gate Tunnel Project. Visit bigbuild.vic.gov.au for more information, including detour routes and closure times. Please note that dates and times are subject to change.

Author Oliver Phommavanh uses colourful and wacky props to share his passion for writing with children. (Supplied)

Asthma ‘hot spot’ help

By Jennifer Pittorino

The National Asthma Council Australia has launched two online clinical education packages to tackle the burden of asthma in Melbourne’s inner west.

The first is designed to be implemented in schools, the ‘Childhood Asthma Guide for Inner West Melbourne (Schools and Sports Clubs)’, is tailored for teachers to help with formulating asthma action plans, asthma first aid training and more dedicated health care such as school nursing.

Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong and Brimbank suffer from high levels of air pollution, ranking highest in the state for emergency department presentations for asthma and wheeze in child and adolescent patients.

In particular, Yarraville and Brooklyn have been named as two of Victoria’s air pollution ‘hot spots’.

They rank seventh and eighth in Australia for air pollution concentrations, mainly from transport, industry, shipping, localised urban issues, waste fires and wood heaters.

National Asthma Council Australia senior clinical consultant Narelle Williamson said the most immediate childhood health consequences of air pollution are wheezing and asthma, along with allergy.

“Children are especially vulnerable because their lungs are still developing and they spend a lot of time outdoors and yet the knowledge and capacity of staff to manage asthma in local school and sports clubs varies significantly,” she said.

The Schools and Sports Club education packagefocusesonidentifyingandmanaging asthma in children within a school or sports setting for children and adolescents five -19 years old.

The package can help in identifying

signs and symptoms of asthma, identifying asthma triggers and those triggers specific to the west.

As well as how to utilise written asthma action plans and provide effective asthma management , identifying the signs of an asthma emergency and how to provide first aid treatment for an asthma attack.

A complementary clinical package Improving Childhood Asthma Management

Sports club funding fued

Armed with 443 signatures, Keilor Sports Club submitted a petition to council requesting the draft budget be reconsidered to provide funding for a refurbishment of the club’s facilities.

At a council meeting on May 16, the petition was referred to council’s chief executive Fiona Blair.

As reported by StarWeekly , the club has expressed concerns its growing base of 1400 members had outgrown the current facilities.

The club received $700,000 state government funding last season to begin upgrades, but the sporting club was hoping for funding in the Brimbank council budget.

Sports club president Hayden Kelly said it was groundhog day for the club with the club hoping for significant funding in the council budgets each year without it coming to fruition.

With no support from the council budget, the club told StarWeeklythat it was not worth doing a half job on works to upgrade facilities at Keilor Recreation Reserve.

Mr Kelly said the club was in desperate need of an expansion and upgrade, sooner rather than later.

in Inner West Melbourne (Primary Health Care) has also been developed for general practitioners (GPs), practice nurses, pharmacists and allied health providers based in the inner western suburbs.

Both packages were developed by the National Asthma Council Australia as their projects for the Improving Childhood Asthma Management (ICAM) – Inner West Program; funded by the state government.

“We can not fit everyone in,” he said. “We can’t hold club functions and get everyone in.

“We have to hold junior presentation days outside.”

HannahHammoud

Tyre & Auto Service

ICAM Sporting Club is one of the programs set to benefit from the two online locally tailored education packages, designed to aid in asthma management in the west. (Supplied)

The Dragon Lady’s colourful life

When Fran Bowden decided to try her hand at tattooing in 1979, female tattoo artists were few and far between in Australia. Over the years Fran has fine-tuned her craft and worked around the country, leading her to a female-owned shop in Brooklyn. She chats to Jennifer Pittorino about her colourful journey and why she loves being a tattoo artist.

FranBowden,alsoknownas‘DragonLady’, always knew she was going to use her passionforcreativityandherfineartskills in her career.

Forty-three talent-filled years later, she has one of the most recognisable tattoo careers in the country.

Whenanoptimistic20-year-oldFranstarted looking for work in 1979, she hadn’t settled on anything concrete, so she decided to stumble into some tattoo shops to try her luck.

“I always knew my job would involve something creative and artsy, I just didn’t know what,” she says.

“I had always been drawing so tattooing seemed like a good next step, people were something new to draw on.”

Inthe‘70stherewereonlythreeorfourother female tattoo artists in Australia, so getting work in a tattoo parlour was no easy feat for Fran.

“I walked into many tattoo shops with some of my drawings prepared, and all I wanted to do was learn how to tattoo people,” she says.

“I received many negative remarks because at that time having a woman tattooing was very different, it was a fairly male-orientated industry.”

Fran’s obstination and ‘won’t take no for an answer’ attitude, eventually got her her first job in a little shop on Elizabeth Street in Sydney.

“Eventually I walked into a shop and showed the manager my work, he said alright let’s see what you can do.

“I think I was very lucky to have been given that opportunity, I got on very well with people and my career escalated from there.”

Fast forward 40-odd years and Fran now lives in Geelong with her husband of 18 years.

Fran has continued her love affair with tattooing at Rogue Ink, a small tattoo shop in Brooklyn, owned by Jessica Gronow.

Jess herself has been tattooing for 11 years, facing similar struggles to Fran when trying to break into the industry.

“There weren’t very many females around tattooing when she started and even when I started the industry was still primarily run by men.

“There were a lot of sexist remarks and a lot of sexual harassment when I started, now we see more young people and even more females running the show.”

Before making the move to Victoria to care for her late mother, Fran had opened three shops, married three times and had three children – all boys.

“I got to travel around doing work in New South Wales, some in Western Australia and eventually in South Australia where I opened my shops,” Frans says.

“South Australia was my favourite state to work in, I met so many nice people and had a great time there.”

Franworkedandworked,gettingbetterjobs, leadinghertobettershops,eventuallyallowing her to open her own businesses which she said was hard work.

“It is very difficult working for yourself, havingyourowntattooshopisespeciallyreally difficult,” she says.

“I was fortunate my husband was the shop manager at one, which helped me with a lot of things.”

Like being a hairdresser, Fran said people

tend to open up to tattoo artists when getting inked, which happens to be her favourite part of the job.

“One of the highlights is definitely meeting lots of new people, you meet all sorts of people, some even famous,” she says coyly.

Fran has been working at Rogue for more than two years working on her colourful, fantasy pieces.

“She has mastered her work with colour over the last 40 years, she is extremely well known for her colour work and her fantasy art,” Jess says.

Fantasy art, day of the dead, Neo-Japanese, Celtic and knotwork, tribal, black and grey, traditional Americana, dragons and fairies are some of Fran’s specialities that she has mastered.

Jess speaks of Fran with great fondness,

describingherasagreatassettotheirteamand a mentor for the seven who work at Rogue.

“Her main skill is her quickness, she is one of the quickest tattoo artists I’ve ever seen,” she says.

“It is very insightful working with Fran, she is extremely friendly and all she wants to do is put her head down and work, it’s very refreshing.”

Fran is a life member of the Professional Tattoo Association of Australia (PTAA), which has been running for more than 40 years, winning several awards for her tattoos.

“Ihavetattooedpeoplejustaboutalloverthe body,thereisatrophyforjustabouteverybody part,” she says.

In addition to working at Rogue, Fran happily spends her spare time painting and drawing, she is also in the middle of a graphic

novel which she is compiling.

After 63 years, Fran is entirely covered in tattoos including two full arms, two full legs , her back, chest and some on her face.

Heradvicetoyoungergenerationsistothink really hard before getting any tattoos.

“It might be fun now but 20 years down the track it might affect you more than you think,” she says.

“It’s been really difficult for me to get a normal job because I am heavily tattooed, tattooing has truly been my whole life.”

Following the advice she imparted on to young readers, her advice to her younger self was on par with her outlook on life.

“I would tell myself, you have to take life as it comes , do your best and you will get there in the end. “Look out Fran, it’s going to be a bumpy ride.”

‘‘ I have tattooed people just about all over the body, there is a trophy for just about every body part ’’

- Fran Bowden

Fran Bowden, a.k.a. ‘Dragon Lady’, has been tattooing for more than 43 years. She is well known for her colourful fantasy pieces, and has been working at Rogue Ink in Brooklyn for the last two years. Left: Fran with Rogue Ink owner Jessica Gronow.

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 335917

A passion for great food

A unique dining experience for all at Tabcorp Park

Auniqueentertainmentcomplexfeaturing a state-of-the-art Harness Racing track, Tabcorp Park is the perfect place for dining with a difference.

Overlooking the track, the expansive popular Alm Bistro presents patrons with a distinctive backdrop to accompany your dining experience, offering the best seat in the house to watch all the trots action.

Tabcorp Park’s chef-prepared seasonal menu presents classic Australian, eclectic

dining with produce sourced from Australian and local suppliers, ensuring quality, freshness and flavour filled dishes.

The Alm Bistro offers a relaxed atmosphere with an open floor plan, with space to stretch and enjoy a meal and drinks with family and friends.

Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, the exceptional team will cater for your dining needs ensuring a memorable experience and extraordinary dining.

Tabcorp Park Melton

The Popular Alm Bistro offers a relaxed atmosphere with an open floor plan, with space to stretch and enjoy the view of our picturesque Harness Racing track. Our exceptional team will cater for your dining needs ensuring a memorable experience, offering weekly food and beverage specials, our Bistro is truly the perfect place to enjoy a meal and drinks with family and friends.

OPEN: 7 days a week lunch and dinner

ADDRESS: 2 Ferris Road, Cobblebank

PHONE: 03 8746 0600

WEBSITE: www.tabcorppark.com.au

Picco Italian was born from a passion for great food and a love of everything Italian.

In true southern Italian hospitality, all are welcome at the Picco family table.

Whether it’s for a coffee and panini, a long Italian lunch or cocktails in the sun that take you to Amalfi … Picco will have you dreaming of Italy!

Picco … where the vibe is Euro and the feeling is nostalgic.

The chefs at Picco Italian focus on using fresh, high-quality ingredients to prepare their dishes. You can expect an array of aromatic coffee options, from classic espresso to creamy cappuccinos.

For a quick bite, the selection of paninis might include traditional Italian ingredients like prosciutto, mozzarella,

roasted vegetables, and flavourful spreads.

Pizza enthusiasts can savour a range of thin-crust pizzas with a variety of toppings. Whether you prefer a classic Margherita with buffalo mozzarella and basil or a more adventurous option featuring local produce and cured meats, Picco Italian strives to provide a delicious and authentic pizza experience.

Picc o Italian offers a charming and inviting dining experience, where guests can indulge in southern Italian-inspired cuisine.

Call or email to book a function. You can also order online to make it quick and convenient, via https://piccoitalian.com.au/

The chef-prepared seasonal menu presents classic Australian, eclectic dining. (Supplied)

Indulge in southern Italian-inspired cuisine at Picco Italian. (Supplied)

Push for community use of former school sites

Brimbank council is continuing to push for interim community use of the land at the former Sunshine College campuses in Sunshine and Sunshine West.

At a council meeting on Tuesday, May 16, councillor Thomas O’Reilly raised a notice of motion calling for council to write to Education Minister Natalie Hutchins requesting an update on the land use.

The multi-campus Sunshine College recently received upgrades at the north and west campuses, where a new STEM facility

was built at the north campus, while the west campus was rebuilt.

Cr O’Reilly said the recent works consolidated the secondary school from four to two campuses, with the former Ardeer campus, previously known as Ardeer High School, and the former senior campus, previously known as Sunshine Technical School, having remained vacant since 2020.

“It was proposed the open space at the school site would become available for use by the adjacent Sunshine Primary School as

well as community recreational use outside school hours until the site was to be activated for future education use,” Cr O’Reilly said.

“The buildings on the former Ardeer campus have been demolished, during which time there were a number of fires that destroyed the buildings which caused community concerns.”

In 2021 two buildings on the former senior campus, the Sunshine Girls Technical School and the Sunshine Technical School boys’ wing were saved from demolition and were

Rally for better buses

By Hannah Hammoud

The release of the state budget included the Victorian government maintaining its commitment to improving the bus network, but many in the west believe that they’ve been stamped as low priority.

Leading up to the budget being handed down, community members from Melbourne’s western suburbs were joined by Friends of the Earth Melbourne’s Sustainable Cities collective at a rally held on Parliament’s steps to save the bus reform.

The 2023-24 financial year will include $1.9 million in funding to deliver the statewide bus plan.

Better buses campaign co-ordinator Elyse Cunningham said while the budget included

continued commitment to bus reform, it was disappointing to see a lack of prioritisation for the west.

“The amount of money that is up is nowhere near enough to achieve what it is that we are asking for. We want an overall route transformation,” Ms Cunningham said.

“ … This incremental reform isn’t going to make a difference, the issue with the bus network is that it is unreliable and people don’t trust it.

“We are going to continue organising with communities in the west to share peoples storiesoftheirexperiencewiththebusnetwork and put pressure on the government to give the west the buses they deserve.”

ShannonMeilakhasbeenlivinginBrimbank for most of her life and is a strong advocate of

better buses for the west. She said her nearest bus stop is two kilometres away.

“It’sreallynotgoodenough,”MsMeilaksaid. “We’vebeenlefthighanddrywhichseemsto bethethemeofthewest,weareforgottenabout and we are always left underfunded.

“Everytime there are public transport reforms, Brimbank gets the short stick,” Ms Meilak said.

“…Weneedgoodqualitybustransportation, more direct routes and better access.”

AtthelastBrimbankcouncilmeetingonMay 16, a notice of motion was raised for council to write to the Public Transport Minister Ben Carroll requesting the state government provide a bus service to the Sunshine North area, including Duke Street and the River Valley estate.

included in the Victorian Heritage Register with the support of community advocacy.

CrO’Reillysaidthepurposeofthenoticeof motion was to initiate an update on the land at the former college sites, and advocate that the sites be returned for interim community use.

A copy of the written letter to Ms Hutchins will also be provided to Laverton MP Sarah Connolly.

HannahHammoud

Man charged over alleged carjacking

Police have charged a man following an alleged carjacking in Sunshine on May 21.

It is alleged a man armed with a machete approached a woman as she was getting belongings out of her vehicle on Dickson Street about 1am.

The man allegedly threatened her, stole the vehicle and fled the scene in it.

The car was sighted a short time later on Ballarat Road, and with assistance from the Air Wing, police followed it to Gisborne.

The driver allegedly dumped the car on Frith Street and jumped over fences at nearby properties.

He was arrested on Beech Court less than an hour after the alleged carjacking.

Police searched the vehicle and allegedly recovered a machete.

The 22-year-old Echuca man has been charged with aggravated carjacking with an offensive weapon, threating to inflict serious injury, aggravated assault, driving at a dangerous speed and possessing a controlled weapon.

Hannah Hammoud

Women recognised by inaugural Fraser volunteer awards

Three powerful, selfless, devoted women have been awarded for their efforts at the inaugural 2023 Volunteer of Fraser Awards, run by Fraser MP Dr Daniel Mulino.

Two women received Volunteer of Fraser Awards, Robyn Cowell and Nazish Rafique, while Darvey To received the Young Volunteer of Fraser Award.

Ms Rafique has been a volunteer in the city of Maribyrnong for several years organising events for homeless and vulnerable people of her community, among many other volunteer projects. She has lived in Australia for 15 years after migrating from Pakistan. “We live in a society where we have to help

each other regardless of race, religion, age or circumstances. I can easily feel people’s pain so whenever I am free I give my time to my community,” she said.

“My culture says we must always be ready to help someone in need, it brings me joy that I might empower someone to give them strength,”

Ms To is passionate about writing and expressing creativity through words and has been volunteering with the 100 Story Building in Footscray for several years.

“I wasn’t expecting to be nominated so I didn’t consider winning, but it feels great,” Ms To said. “100 Story Building means a

lot to me because it is built around my core values of imagination and having a solid space to work and express yourself.”

Ms Cowell has been devoting her time to the Braybrook Football Club for over 25 years participating in crucial game day duties.

“Robbo is truly is the heart and soul of the club, she keeps the club alive, she is the backbone of the club,” former club president Robert Hutchison said.

Ms Cowell selflessly said volunteering is a team effort.

“It’s not just me, it’s everyone working as one to come together to help others,” she said.

MP Daniel Mullino chose three winners to celebrate for their volounteering efforts, Robyn Cowell, Darvey To and Nazish Rafique. (Damjan Janevski) 335100_01

The better buses rally was held on Parliament steps on Wednesday, May 17. (Supplied)

From concept to reality, create a dream outdoor space

As the warm weather falls behind us, now is a great time to get started on your dream outdoor space and Outside Concepts are the perfect choice to make those dreams a reality.

Building their reputation on creating quality outdoor living and storage spaces, including their signature high standard carports, they also specialise in pergolas, decks, verandas and outdoor entertaining areas for the family to enjoy.

They’ll work with you from concept and completion, to clean up, so you can just sit back while the hard work gets under way and then enjoy your new space.

Established in 1991 by Brian Rohan and originally called Mr Carports, they have 30 plus years in the business and over 18,000 finished projects has created thousands of satisfied customers Australia-wide.

They’ve established themselves as highly reliable and abundantly experienced with a customer centric focus the whole way through, Outside Concepts take care of the entire process, taking the pressure off you.

The team will work on developing your ideas, starting with design, everything is done in house, from the engineering, to plans and building permits, you’ll only need to contact Outside Concepts for your outdoor upgrades.

Whether it be pergolas, carports, or a new deck, they work with both timber and steel materialsandonlyusequalityAustralianmade products.

They can employ a range of designs to suit your home, with both flat and gable roofing options available, their decks also include timber or composite options, it’s up to the customer’s preference.

For a stunning natural look, timber decking is the way to go, but if you want minimal upkeep and a more environmentally conscious solution, their supplied composite decking is

made with recycled plastic and the team can talk through what’s best suited to your needs. With great experience with pergolas, carports and verandas, Outside Concepts can work through different design ideas with you. Polycarbonateandlaserlightroofingoptions

will ensure the sun’s warmth can make it through, whereas insulated panel ceilings will give a cleaner modern touch and can be finished up with in-ceiling lights and fans to pull everything together. Welcomingprojectsbigandsmall,ascustom

builders they ensure to always be upfront with designpossibilitiesandcosts,there’snoneedto go anywhere else.

For an obligation free quote contact 1800 601 647 or visit www.outsideconcepts. net.au

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

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT

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

The Sunshine Club

Set in 1946, the joyful and acclaimed musical TheSunshineClub, 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. TheSunshineClub will be at the Bowery Theatre on June 8, from 7pm.

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

World Environment Day

To celebrate World Environment Day in, the community is invited to the Stepping Stones along the Kororoit Creek Trail in Sunshine West on Saturday, June 3, from 10am-1pm. There will be activities for the whole family, concluding with a barbecue, all free of charge.

■ https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/worldenvironment-day-celebration-and-plantingday-tickets-590568204397

Brimbank Men’s Health Week

Celebrate Men’s Health Week with guest speaker, Tom Boyd, former AFL premiership player and advocate for mental health at Westvale Community Centre on Thursday, June 15, from 11am-2pm.

■ https://www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1061227?eid=1061227&

INfuse Artist Network

Are you looking to transform your brilliant idea for a creative project into a fundable concept? Join the St Albans Community Centre arts community and learn how to put together a strong funding application and grant opportunities in this grant writing for creatives workshop run by Debby Maziarz. The workshop will be held on Saturday, June 17, at 33 Princess Street, St Albans, from 11am-1pm.

■ https://www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1054978?eid=1054978&

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, 0425768808

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

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

To

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 group of ladies.

■ Robyn, 0425 387 880

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

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

Zonta club meets

Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton.

■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

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

Melton South Knit & Natter

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

■ 9747 8576

U3A Melton

U3A Melton offers among its activities a book group, Australian history and a gentle exercise class for those 55 and older who are retired or semi-retired who wish to stay mentally and physically active.

■ 0419 563 016

Melton Combined Probus Club

The Melton Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am.

■ 9746 0271

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

Men’s healthy cooking workshop

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. On Friday, June, 16, 10am-12.30pm, at 107-139 Churchill Avenue, Braybrook. ■ 9188 5800

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 Constructs (6)

4 Rant and rave (8)

9 Traditional English sponge cake (7)

11 Imbricate (7)

12 Knick-knacks and souvenirs (11)

13 Firearm (3)

14 Arduous (8)

16 Capital territory of India (5)

19 Regal (5)

20 Influenza strain (5,3)

22 Phone program (3)

24 Reciprocal (11)

26 Annoying (7)

27 Deviate (7)

29 Accurate shooters (7)

30 Stylish (6)

DOWN

1 Cadge (3)

2 Compensation (9)

3 Less wet (5)

5 Greek god of music, poetry, etc (6)

6 Girls’ name (9)

7 Forced labour camp (5)

8 Outlay (11)

10 Collections of songs or photos (6)

12 Prioritising material possessions (11)

15 Rocks containing silica (9)

17 Exaggerated self importance (9)

18 Mount (6)

21 In ancient architecture, a horizontal design (6)

23 Metal rod for stirring a fire (5)

25 Celestial being (5)

28 Speak (3)

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 345678910111213

12 25

678312954

593684271

719468523 481275639

836521497 365849712

142957368

927136845

246851973

752618394

918543627

189327465 897135246

375964182 461279538

easy medium hard

634792851

523486719

P Today’s Aim:

Y 18 words: Good 27 words: Very good 37 words: Excellent

361297485

157926834

639814572

254793186 516389247

945638721 293745618

872451963 784162359

428573196

R S R B E 3 LETTERS ADO APE ATE BEE ERA FEW FOE GAL ICE IFS IRE IRK KEN MOP NEE NIT OLD ORE PRO ROW SUE TIP VIA 4 LETTERS ABLE ALSO ARTS CAST CENT DANK EVIL ICON JETS OFFS PERT SANG SOLE WEPT WOOD 5 LETTERS ACORN

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

AHEAD ALLOT AORTA ARISE ASHEN BALDS BASIC BUFFS CLASS COSTS COVES CRANE CRASH EATEN ENSUE FAIRY FINAL FLEES GREAT HALES HARSH

HERDS IDEAL JAUNT NAVEL OPENS OUSTS OVENS ROAST ROTOR SCENT SELLS SLEET SLYER SMART SMELT STAKE STEER STRUT SWIRL TIGER TREAT

ULTRA USUAL VIRAL 6 LETTERS CASINO ERECTS IRONIC STRINE 7 LETTERS COASTER ENIGMAS FOCUSED POSTAGE

ROOSTER ROWBOAT 8 LETTERS FRESHEST NARRATOR ROMANTIC TIRESOME 11 LETTERS DIFFERENCES NECESSITATE

02-06-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

1 Do peanuts grow on trees, on bushes or below ground?

2 The archer is the symbol of what zodiac sign?

3 Stenography is the process of what?

4 Wynton Marsalis is known for playing which instrument?

5 The three Margin brothers (Zaac, Sam and Elliott) are members of which Australian rock band?

6 Who was the only Ptolemaic ruler to learn the Egyptian language?

7 Jessica Walsh is a graphic designer and creative director based in which US city?

8 Which 2020 sci-fi thriller stars John David Washington and Robert Pattinson?

9 The rusty-spotted cat (pictured) is notable for being what?

10 Robin Nicholas and Patricia Saunders designed which typeface in 1982?

13 26 FL ANSWERS: 1. Below ground 2. Sagittarius 3. Writing shorthand 4. Trumpet 5. The Rubens 6. Cleopatra 7. New York 8. Tenet 9. The world’s smallest cat 10. Arial

No. 135

No. 135

ANY TREES LOPPED

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

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

Airport health ‘concerns’

• 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

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)

Isuzu Ute MU-X is big and bold

By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Isuzu MU-X LS-T is a large 4WD from a Japanese company that has a long history of producing hard working vehicles. Indeed, Isuzu has a history dating back for over 100 years in light commercial vehicles.

With research showing 50 per cent of Aussie owners tow something behind their Isuzu MU-X this latest model has a stronger body-on-frame chassis and re-engineered coil-sprung five-link independent rear suspension has delivered what the company says is best-in-class braked towing capacity of 3500 kg.

MU-X comes with three equipment levels: LS-M, LS-U and LS-T, each with the choice of two- or four-wheel drive. All are powered by Isuzu’s new 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, putting out 140 kW and 450 Nm, mated with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The MU-X has a six-year/150,000 km warranty (some rivals have unlimited kays) with up to seven years roadside assistance and seven years capped-price servicing available.

Styling

This is a good-looking vehicle that’s aimed at those looking for an attractive vehicle that’s going to appeal to family buyers looking for something that’s more than an upmarket station wagon.

The front grille is large and stretches all the waytotheheadlights,indeeditslightlyoverlaps the headlights. There’s a huge “Isuzu” badge in the top centre of the grille.

The headlights have an interesting look in that they are in two sections, making them styling feature not merely a way of letting the driver see better in the dark.

The bonnet is tall and slopes down at the outer edges. The windscreen has a practical, relatively upright slope in that it doesn’t reach too far back and therefore keeps the sun off the driver and front passenger.

The roof stretches back so that it provides a tall load area, again adding to the practical nature of this vehicle.

Interior

Again, the MU-X has an upmarket look as it’s aimed at those who want a quality family vehicle not simply an off-road machine. It has quilted leather-accented seven-seat

upholstery with white stitching and quilted leatherette across interior door trims and centre console.

The LS-T has heated front seats, with improved eight-way power adjustment on the driver’s side with under-thigh adjustment, power adjustable lumbar support and four-way power adjustment for the passenger.

This model has dual-zone climate control air-conditioning, which covers all three-rows. The instrument cluster has analogue dials for tacho and speedo, with a 4.2-inch Multi-Information Display in between them. This includes a digital speedometer, turn-by-turn navigation instructions, drive modes, fuel usage and vehicle range information.

Infotainment

A new nine-inch centrally mounted screen displays high-definition infotainment with crisp images. Connectivity is by way of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Eight JVC Kenwood speakers give the occupants excellent quality sound.

Engines / transmissions

Power comes from a 3.0-litre, four-cylinder, common-rail turbo-diesel engine. It drives all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. High- and low-ranges give it good traction on-road or off-.

Safety

The Isuzu MU-X gained a five-star safety when tested in August 2021.

Isuzu’s Intelligent Driver Assistance System

combines active and passive safety with driver assistance technology.

It has eight airbags which includes a front centre airbag between the driver and the front passenger.

Other safety features across the range include Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control, Roll-Over Mitigation, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Post-Collision Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Misacceleration Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop andGoFunctionality,TrafficSignRecognition, Intelligent Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Lane Keep Assist, Driver Inattention Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Thetop-specLS-Tgetsfrontandrearparking sensors, the other only have rear sensors.

The outer centre-row seats come with ISO FIX compatible anchor points.

Driving Engine response off the line is pretty good, thought as is often the way in turbo-diesels it’s a bit slow to respond off the mark. Once it up andrunningitdoeswhatyouaskofitpromptly and is enjoyable to sit behind.

It’s not quite car like in the way it drives, but the Isuzu MU-X is pleasant to drive in the way that it provides good feel from the steering wheel as what vehicle is doing.

It turns in nicely and holds the path chosen bythedriverwithouttheneedforsmallchanges to keep it on the chosen path.

Keep in mind that you’re driving a 4WD not a passenger car and it’s excellent in the way that it responds to road conditions.

Isuzu MU-X LS-M 3.0 turbo-diesel auto 4x2

Isuzu MU-X LS-U 3.0 turbo-diesel auto 4x2 $55,400

Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0 turbo-diesel auto 4x2 $61,400

Isuzu MU-X LS-M 3.0 turbo-diesel auto 4x4 $54,900

Isuzu MU-X LS-U 3.0 turbo-diesel auto 4x4 $61,400

Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0 turbo-diesel auto 4x4 $65,990

SPECIFICATIONS

Isuzu MU-X LS-T 3.0-litre turbo-diesel AWD five-door wagon SUV

Note: The price of the LS-T 4x4 is driveaway. All other prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Isuzu Ute dealer for drive-away prices.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have the opportunity to drive the MU-X in off-road conditions, but we are confident the it will handle them well. Perhaps in the future we will find time to borrow one for a further week and be able to spend time in the tough stuff.

Fuel consumption is listed at 8.3 litres per 100 kilometres. We averaged 9.3 L/100 km during our test.

Summing up

Isuzu MU-X LS-T is a well-built Japanese vehicle that looks good, handle well for its type and is offered in a number of variants. Would I buy one if this is the type of vehicle I’m shopping around for? Certainly, as it’s one that would sit very high on the list of vehicles I would shop around for.

Big and bold, Isuzu Ute MU-X is a versatile family SUV. (Pictures: Supplied)

Brimbank Stallions knocked out of Australia Cup

Brimbank Stallions’ Australia Cup run is over after a brave performance on Tuesday, May 23.

TheStallions,astateleague1north-westside, wereathometoNationalPremierLeague3side Geelong on Tuesday, with a spot in the final round of the Victorian stage of the competition on the line.

Geelong hit the lead in the first half and doubled it shortly after the break. The Stallions had to play the whole second half a man down after Noah Thomas-Chinnama got a red card just before half time.

TheStallionsgotonebackinthe65thminute through Benjamin Iluffi before Geelong scored the sealer in the 77th minute to progress through with a 3-1 win.

Stallions coach Andrew Marth said once theywentamandownitmadeithardforthem, but in the end were beaten by a better team.

“There were a few pivotal moments in the game,” he said.

“There were a couple of bad referee calls that

cost us two goals and then a bad challenge left us a man down.

“We scored in the second half to make it 2-1 and had a couple of chances to equalise. One player down makes a big difference.”

Having made the seventh round last year, it’s been back-to-back strong Australia Cup campaigns.

Marth said the competition is really important for him.

“A lot of clubs don’t think it is,” he said.

“It’s prestigious for the clubs that are in the lower grades and don’t get the opportunity to play in the big games.”

The Stallions focus now returns to the state league 1 north-west season, with the team sitting in fourth spot after nine rounds.

Marth said one thing was holding them back from being higher on the ladder.

“We’re playing some really good footy, we can’t convert,” he said.

“We’re getting chances to score.

“WeplayedYarravillelastweekandwecould have been 5-0 at half time. You can not miss from one metre out and we paid the price and drew.

“If we were an AFL team, with the number of chances we’ve had, we’d be on top of the ladder.”

Marth said he was confident the tide would turn and they would soon start converting those goals.

He said they were confident about where they sat this season.

The Stallions were set to face top side Altona City on Saturday evening, after deadline.

“We’re a top two-three team,” he said. “We’re fourth at the moment, as if you don’t score goals you don’t win games.”

Tara Murray

Knights continue cup run

By Tara Murray

Melbourne Knights are one step closer to achieving their goal of making the national stage of the Australia Cup.

The Knights beat the Bentleigh Greens on Tuesday night in round six, to win through to the final 10 of the Victorian stage.

Knights coach Ben Cahn said the win was another box ticked.

“It’s obviously where we want to be,” he said of the national stage.

“We aimed to try and get to the national stage, it’s important for us and there’s one game to go.”

Cahn said facing the Greens midweek at Kingston Heath was always going to be a test, with the Greens starting to show some improvement.

The Knights were able to open the scoring through Gian Albano in the fifth minute through a penalty.

That was the score line at half time before Corey Sewell doubled the score line in the 62nd minute

That would be the match, with the Knights winning 2-0.

Cahn said they would take the win.

“It wasn’t the cleanness performance,” he said. “Sometimes in cup games it’s about getting the win, not how you do it.

“It takes one result to get knocked out. We were scrappy, but got the win and are able to progress.”

The win continues the good form for the Knights,whichenteredtheweekend’smatches sitting in fourth spot.

The Knights had come away with points in their last seven games, before their match with the Oakleigh Cannons on Friday night, after deadline.

Cahn said they knew they were on a good run.

“The boys are confident,” he said.

“We got straight into playing Oakleigh which is a massive league game. We’re building a nice buffer between us the teams outside the top six and we want to focus on expanding that gap.

“We also want to start picking up points on

the teams above us.”

While happy with how the season has gone so far, Cahn knows there’s plenty of work ahead of them.

He said they were still to hit their peak.

“We started the season with 12 new players, a new coach and new staff,” he said.

“We’re still working and we’ll work to keep on improving. The way I work, I want to peak at the business end of the season.

Joining the Knights in the next round of the Australia Cup is the St Albans Saints. TheSaintsbeattheNorthGeelongWarriors, 1-0 on Tuesday night.

WhiletheKnightsandSaintsprogressedon, the Brimbank Stallions and North Sunshine Eagles cup runs came to an end.

The Stallions lost to Geelong 3-1, after going a man down late in the first half.

The Eagles came from behind to level scores with Yarraville Glory, to force the game to extra time.

Neither team could find a winner, with the game going to penalties, with the Glory winning 5-4.

Braybrook is hoping to lay the foundations for the future this year in the Western Region Football League division 2.

The Brookers, who won the division 3 premiership last season, have struggled so far in the higher grade, after a number of off season departures.

After six rounds, the Brookers sit in seventh spot without a win.

Coach Geoff Maddern said it had been tough so far.

“The goal for us is to improve and set ourselves up to go forward next year and do better,” he said.

“We’ve been in games for patches and for lengths of time we have been competitive, which hasn’t necessarily reflected on the score line.

“Injuries have hurt us a little bit too.”

Maddern, who only took on the role weeks out from the season, has been learning as he goes. He replaced premiership winning coach John Mangos.

He said there’s a good base to build from.

“It’s a long process and it will take sometimetofullyunderstandeveryone,” he said.

“They’re a fantastic group as well as administration. They’ve been great from the start and we’ve got a good foundation.”

The Brookers had the bye at the weekend.

Maddern said while unsure if it had come at a good time, it would hopefully allow them to get a few players back from injury this Saturday.

Having played everyone else, the Brookers now have a measuring stick of their improvement. He said consistency was a big key for them.

“Wecanseewhereweneedtoimprove,” he said. “We need to play better for longer. We’ve fiddled with a few things and played some players out of position to see what other things people can do.

“It’sagreatfoundation.Wegothrough again,withdifferentconditions,different grounds.

“We can now measure things.”

The Brookers this Saturday face Parkside.

Tara Murray

Brookers are building for the future

Akitoshi Yamamoto. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 335900_08

Melbourne Knights good run of form has continued. (Mikko Robles)

Hackney takes the reigns at Sydenham-Hillside

Warren Hackney has held just about every role at Sydenham-Hillside the last 20 years except for senior men’s coach.

But with his playing career over, Hackney put his hand up to take on the role as the club moves into the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division for the first time.

Hackney said it was too good an opportunity to turn down.

“It’s an exciting time and it should be a good summer,” he said.

“I have coached a little bit of men’s at my previous club a while ago, but while I was committed to playing, it was put on the backburner.

“I gave it away last year and the body gave in. The club has come a long way and now in the highest level in the VTCA and the women’s program is developing strongly, it was an amazing opportunity that was too good to turn down.”

Hackney replaces two time premiership

winningcoachGeoffPretty,whohasmovedon from the club.

Theclubadvertisedtheroleandgotanumber of high calibre applicants, both playing and non-playing,butdecidedtostickwithsomeone from within.

“We thought we would advertise and see what we got,” he said. “Sometimes you have to back what you have in your own backyard.

“We felt this year a non-playing coach was the way to go to continue the high standards.”

“I’ve been at the club for 20 years and held every single role, about the only one I haven’t filled is this and I’m excited to have the opportunity.”

Hackney is keen to help the senior side have some success in the top grade, as well as continue to develop the young talent in the group.

After four premierships in five seasons, Hackney says nothing will change.

“It’s a new challenge and we’re looking to it

with a similar approach to the last four to five years and every time we’ve won a flag and got promoted,” he said.

“It’s new territory. We all want the senior team to be competitive and not making up the numbers, as well as enjoying their cricket and developing their games.”

Hackney said they would look to make some new player signings in the coming weeks as they look to strengthen their squad.

But the existing playing group will again be prominent on the field.

“We have re-signed most of the premiership side,” he said.

“There will be a few new faces. We’ll back the bulk of the squad in, They deserve that opportunity.”

Tara

Tigers name Glowacki as senior coach

Sunshine United has appointed Michael Glowacki as its senior coach for the 2023-24 Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division.

On Wednesday, the club announced that it believed Glowacki would be the right person to lead the club going forward.

Glowacki said he was excited by the opportunity as the club had been a second home to him for the best part of his life.

“I am thrilled and honoured to be appointed as the senior coach of the Sunshine United Cricket Club,” he said.

“I want to thank the selection panel and the committee for their vote of confidence in me, and I am excited about the opportunity to prove myself to all supporters and players.

“What you will get from me as a coach is someone who is organised and motivated, as well as someone who will bring enthusiasm and optimism to this role.

“This year, we are going to measure our performance on and off the field more purposefully and adapt our training to cater to our needs.

Lions sign star recruits

By Tara Murray

DeerParkhassignedformerVictorianPremier

Cricket stars Dean Russ and Dan Sartori, capping off a big 18 months for the club.

Coming off a Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division grand final in March, the Lions have shown they are now a destination club with the arrival of the two stars.

Russ, who won the Ryder Medal in 2021-22, played more than 300 games for Footscray, captained its premiership team in 2013-14 and is one of premier cricket’s best ever players.

SartoriplayedwithFootscrayinrecentyears, having made a name for himself at Richmond.

Lions coach Mick Andriadis said these were the biggest signings in the club’s history.

“Weareraptthatwecouldgetthem,”hesaid.

“It happened through Steve [Krstevski ] our president. Dean has played in some T20s for us in the past.

“Stevehadthatrelationshipwithhimandgot in first when we found out he was retiring from

district cricket.

“Dan wanted to still play with Dean and we were one of the clubs that could accommodate them both.”

Last season Russ averaged 54, while Sartori averaged 42 runs a game.

Andriadis said it would be amazing for those at the club to get the experience to play and learn from both Russ and Sartori.

“It’s good for the young ones around them,” he said.

“If you are a batsmen you get the chance to learn off these two blokes who have been terrific district cricketers.”

Andriadis said the Lions hadn’t spoken about whether either of the two recruits would have any official leadership roles.

He said the club had really become a destination club the last couple of years.

“We’vegottogivecredittothepeoplebehind the scenes,’ he said.

“It’s really good and a lot of support in the semi final. Lots of messages and support and it put us on the map to speak.

“We are trying to be one of the big clubs. We didn’t win the premiership, but it was only our first year in senior division.”

ThesigningsofRussandSartoriarethelatest in what is turning into an action packed off season.

Premiers Yarraville Club has added Michael Hill, another stepping back from premier cricket, and Nathan Johnson crosses from the Druids.

Andriadis said the competition would be exciting going forward.

“Yarraville Club is always hard to beat,” he said. “We’re looking forward to playing them, this year we will have a bit more depth. It’s only good for the association to have the best players in the competition.”

Andriadis said, due to the points cap, they probably wouldn’t add in any other players to their first XI.

He said they were hoping to strengthen their second XI as well to be more competitive next season.

“I’m looking forward to it.”

“I know it means as much to many of you. I will give everything I have to ensure that this club continues to thrive and also, foster a sense of belonging and dedication for all involved.

“I’m looking forward to getting started in what is going to be a season filled with excitement and hard work”.

United president Paul Cini is excited by the appointment of the club great. Outside of a two-year stint with Footscray in Victorian Premier Cricket, Glowacki played his whole career at the Tigers.

“I am extremely pleased that Michael will be our senior coach for the coming season,” Cini said.

“He is eager to get to work and find that 10 per cent extra we need to progress our senior group to push for finals next season.

“He also has a keen willingness to continue the development of our under-16 group from last season and give them every opportunity to progress in our senior ranks.

“I strongly believe exciting times are ahead with Wacky at the helm”.

Tara Murray

Murray

Warren Hackney is Sydenham-Hillside’s new coach. (Shawn Smits) 205859_02

Dean Russ has joined Deer Park. (Ivan Kemp) 322163_02

Signing Thunder has been ‘waiting on’ arrives

Keilor Thunder has received a massive boost with South Sudan captain Kuany Kuany finally arriving and ready to take to the court in the National Basketball League 1 South competition. The Thunder announced the signing of the 2022 NBL1 South all-star five playeronFridayaheadofhisdebutonSaturday. Speaking before the announcement, coach Liam Glascott was pretty excited to finally have him available to play.

“He’s the one that we have been waiting on,” he said.

“He was really good last season in the NBL1 all star with Bendigo. He will add a lot of value to both ends of the court.

“He can play anywhere from one through to four and can average 20 points a game in this league.

“He will help us with the offence and the communication side of the defence.”

Glascott said they were hoping the arrival of Kuany would help take the side to the next level.The club sat 4-6 after 10 matches.

“We know that we can beat anyone in the competition,” he said. “We have the ability to score 100 points a game.

“If we can execute on both ends of the court, follow the scout we can hopefully get some more wins.

“As a team we’ve taken some steps forward and there’s a lot of positivity out of the group.”

GlascottsaidthearrivalofKuanywouldhelp addsomemoreexperiencetotheside.Hesaida lackofexperienceprovedcostlyinroundseven.

“We let two games slip against Hobart and RIngwood. We led in the final three minutes of the game, but couldn’t close the game.

“We had a few niggling injuries as well. It was Evan Wardlow’s first game back after three weeks.” Glascott said he had been happy

with the additions of Oliver Hayes-Brown and Robbie Heath this season, both who have NBL experience. But it’s youngster Zac Triplett that is leading the way. Triplett is averaging more than 21 points per game

Glascott said it was exciting to see what Triplett was doing, after he missed most of last year through injury.

“To see guys like Zac, who is a Keilor junior coming through the ranks,” he said.

“You like seeing what all the team has done, but I’ve known him since he was 10-years-old and I’ve seen him grow and develop and take his game to the next level.”

With 12 games left in the season, heading into the weekend’s matches, Glascott said their season was still alive but they needed to put some more wins on the board soon.

The Thunder were set to face Frankston and Waverley on the weekend, after deadline.

EDFL moves on safety

By Tara Murray

Restrictions on spectators on the field during breaks and exclusion zones around coaches’ boxeshavebeenimplementedbytheEssendon District Football League.

Following a number of incidents at games, including a division 1 match between St Albans and Hillside being called off, the league has introduced these measures to try ensure the safety of everyone involved.

The league is yet to officially announce the changes, but a number of clubs posted the changes on their social media and they were in place on Saturday at games.

Among the changes no spectators are allowed on mid-section of the grounds at the quarter time and half time breaks with spectators only allowed inside 50 metre arcs during these breaks.

Coaches’ huddles at breaks to be within areas close to the coaches’ boxes and an exclusion zone of 25 metres around all coaches’ boxes.

There will be match day managers at all games who will liaise with umpires to identify poor crowd behaviour and club committee will be at games to help support these new initiatives and EDFL board members will also be visiting clubs to assist.

“Whilst we love the passion and enthusiasm each and every supporter brings to our game we need to be accepting and understanding of the league’s decision after recent events,” the posts said.

“We understand that actions of a minority have led to this impacting the majority and it will cause wide frustration and disappointment however we must ensure we provide the safest environment we can for our players, coaches and the league officials.

“Abuse is unacceptable and will not be tolerated towards any individual or group.”

It comes as the league continues to investigate the brawl that resulted in the St Albans and Hillside game which resulted in the game being called off at three quarter time and police called.

League chairman Bernie Shinners and chief executive Andrew Johnston released a letter last week endorsed by all 37 clubs calling out the behaviour of the minority.

“Every one of these people need our support and our respect,” the letter said.

“However, in the first few weeks of our game there has been a corresponding increase in incidents at games and on social media. We’ve seen disturbing altercations lately involving spectators and players – threatening behaviour, verbal abuse, and alarmingly, even isolated incidents of physical abuse.

Sports shorts

VTCA

Keilor Park is seeking a new coach for next season’s Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 2 season. The Devils are looking for a spirited coach to take charge of the senior men’s program from the 2023-24 season onwards. For more information, contact Dave Tardio on 0433 498 436 or email info@keilorparkcc.com.au.

VTCA

St Albans has announced its first international signing ahead of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division season. Englishman Nils Priestley, is a hard hitting left handed top order batsman and also front line left arm finger spinner, who has previously contracted with Derbyshire and has previously played four list A games. In the past two years he has racked up more than 1200 runs. The news comes with the Saints having already announced a new captain-coach Shafraz Mohammed and the signings of Ashen Abeykoon and Akila Ishanka.

Bowls

Deer Park’s Koby Cromie has been named the Bowls Victoria under-18 male bowler of the year. Cromie, who was part of Deer Park’s premier division premiership, won gold at the under-18 nationals and two golds at the under-18 state championships. Cromie also played every test in the 12 months for the Victorian under-18 team.

VNL

“These acts have NO place in our game. The damage anti-social behaviour does to our game cannot be understated.

“We’ve seen too many umpires leave our game prematurely, too many young players driven away by the behaviour of their peers and/or adults, and too many community supporters who feel unsafe to attend the game they love.

“Although we’re determined to stamp this behaviour out, we need your help.

“We are asking every parent, player, official, supporter and spectator to offer their support “the correct way”.

“Everyone can make the decision to be

supportive and encouraging rather than critical or abusive, you can be the parent, player, official, supporter or spectator that holds their tongue when you perceive a poor decisionorwanttosaysomethingtoyourown or the other team.

“Only you can consciously recognise that nothing you do or say will change an umpires decision.

“Only you can discourage and refrain from anti-social behaviour. With this level of support, more children, more players, more umpires, and more volunteers will find reasons to stay in the game they love rather than being given reasons to quit.”

The City West Falcons winning streak continued on Wednesday night in the Victorian Netball League championship division. Facing the Geelong Cougars, the only team to beat them this season, the Falcons came away with a solid 67-58 win. Jane Cook continued her good form with 57 goals from 58 attempts. The Falcons remain on top, with a 9-1 record, percentage ahead of the Boroondara Express. The Falcons this week face the Boroondara Express in a top of the table clash.

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Oliver Hayes-Brown (Keilor Thunder)

The match between St Albans and Hillside was called off recently. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 335901_02