Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 20th June 2023

A brush with nature

Artist Mario Knez discovered a new love for the natural landscapes around Brimbank during the COVID lockdowns. Now, three of his paintings are proudly hanging at the Hunt Club Community and Arts centre in Deer Park.

Escaping from the urban environment, the natural beauty of Brimbank inspired Knez to mark his new found appreciation of the local scenery. Knez said he hopes his landscape paintings bring to people’s attention the beauty in their backyard.

“Much needs to be celebrated of our wonderful landscape,” he said.

Knez’s paintings are part of a group exhibition project titled, ‘Re-Present’, which aims to celebrate the cultural and artistic diversity pf Brimbank.

“It is a sense of accomplishment having my paintings publicly shown on a wall and it is great to get exposure in the western suburbs,” he said. “It’s definitely an honour to solidify what I’m doing … It makes it feel real.”

The exhibition is on until August 31.

Police crack crime ring

By Hannah Hammoud

A Sunshine North man and a St Albans man have been charged with attempting to possess a commercial quantity of an unlawfully imported border controlled drugs as part of a police crackdown on a global crime syndicate.

Police allege the syndicate attempted to traffic $1.7 billion worth of methamphetamine to Australia.

Six men were arrested las week as part of the investigation.

Twomenhavebeenchargedwithattempting to traffic the drugs from Canada to Australia over several months.

A further four men, who allegedly tried to buytheillicitdrugsinAustralia,havealsobeen charged.

Police said the methamphetamine would

haveamountedtoalmost19millionindividual street deals.

A Sunshine North man, 28, a US national, 26, and a St Albans man, 19, have each been charged with attempting to possess a commercial quantity of unlawfully imported border controlled drugs. It is expected that further charges will be laid against these three men.

Police executed search warrants at their homes and a storage unit in Sunshine, which the three men allegedly used to store the illicit drugs.

During the warrants, police allegedly uncovered a clandestine lab at the Sunshine North home along with a quantity of other drugs.

They appeared before the Melbourne Magistrates Court on June 14.

A 38-year-old man from Melbourne’s CBD, who recently returned from overseas, appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court on June 15, charged with attempting to import a commercial quantity of border controlled drugs and attempting to possess a commercial quantity of unlawfully imported border controlled drugs.

It will be alleged the man acted as a conduit for an organised crime network in Canada, and is the primary onshore facilitator for the transport and movement of one attempted methamphetamine import to Australia.

A 32-year-old man from Melbourne’s CBD, also faced the Melbourne Magistrates Court on June 15, charged with attempting to import a commercial quantity of a border controlled drugs, attempting to possess a commercial quantity of unlawfully imported border

controlled drugs and trafficking a drug of dependence.

It will be alleged the man is a professional facilitator and used his position in a logistics business to transport the substituted methamphetamine when it arrived in Australia.

Both men are facing a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

Another Melbourne CBD man, 51 also appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court on June 15, charged with possession and trafficking of a marketable quantity of border controlled drugs, possession of a controlled drug, dealing with proceeds of crime and failing to comply with a court order.

Further arrests in Australia are expected, police said.

Mario Knez’s paintings will be on display at the Hunt Club Community and Arts Centre until Thursday, August 31. (Damjan Janevski) 341178_03

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’ve removed 15 level crossings in Melbourne’s west and finished tunnelling for the West Gate Tunnel. As works continue to build better connections across our city there will be road and rail disruptions.

West Gate Tunnel Project

Nearly nine hectares of new parks and wetlands and 17,000 new trees

Works progress in the west

Major works are progressing on the West Gate Tunnel Project. The vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge will give drivers a choice – the tunnel or the bridge – and provide direct port access for the freight industry, taking thousands of trucks off local roads.

Footscray Road has reopened on 16 June after more than 400 massive concrete segments, each weighing 100 tonnes, were lifted into place to build the new elevated road.

To make it easier to get to and from the west, the bridge over the rail lines at Dynon Road will be widened and strengthened to join a new exit ramp from the West Gate Tunnel. To get this done safely, Dynon Road will be closed over the rail lines near CityLink from 16 June for 11 weeks. The bridge is above major train lines meaning some trains will be disrupted during these works.

Dynon Road closed

Dynon Road

Train disruptions: Buses/coaches replace trains in both directions Sunbury

Williamstown Line

to last train, 20 to 22 JuneFlagstaff to Newport

8.30pm 23 June to last train 9 July

to last train, 20 to 22 JuneFlagstaff to Williamstown

23 June to last train 9 July Craigieburn

Road disruptions: Closed road and ramp

Dynon Road, West Melbourne 8pm 16 June to 5am 31

exit ramp from CityLink to Dryburgh Street

While we work, road and rail disruptions could affect your travel

Major train lines run underneath the Dynon Road Bridge, so to complete works safely trains will be disrupted.

Brimbank crime rate on the rise

Recorded criminal offences have increased by 2.9 per cent across Brimbank in the 12 months to March, according to new data from the Crime Statistics Agency.

Brimbank recorded 492 more offences in the 12 months to March, compared to the previous 12 months, with a total of 17,310 criminal offences.

Brimbank Inspector Trevor King said police are well resourced to provide a dedicated, 24-7 response to the Brimbank community.

“While the Brimbank area has experienced

an increase in crime over the last year, crime remains below pre-COVID levels with a 14 per cent decrease when compared with the year ending March 2020,” he said.

TherewasadecreaseinoffencesinStAlbans, but it still remained the top spot for offences in the municipality. Stealing from a motor vehicle was the top offence in Brimbank.

Inspector King said while the areas of burglaries and thefts have decreased in Brimbank, police are focused on making sure this remains the case.

Focus on healthy habits

Brimbank council hosted a week packed full of events and activities as part of Men’s Health Week from June 12 to 18.

The event is celebrated every year around the world, and this year’s theme was Healthy Habits – focussing on encouraging men and boys to build healthy habits by identifying small changes they can make that benefit their health and wellbeing.

Brimbankcouncilproudlysupportedarange of activities during the week, with events that included cooking, exercise, social connection, family connection and art across various sites in Brimbank.

The activities were aimed at supporting improved mental wellbeing, healthy eating, active living and physical activity and support economic and social inclusion.

This year the main event took place on Thursday, June 15 at the Westvale Community Centre.

Locals joined the council in celebrating Men’s Health Week 2023 with guest speakers,

“Policewillcontinuetopatrolthecommunity every night, recover stolen vehicles and arrest offenders. We also implore the community to take some simple measures to help prevent their vehicle from being stolen or broken into,” he said. “Simple home security measures such as locking all doors and windows to your home and car can go a long way to preventing your car from being stolen or home broken into.”

Brimbank recorded a 2.4 per cent increase in family violence incidences, however Inspector King said this increase can also be linked to the

community’s growing confidence in reporting these crimes to police.

“The issue of family violence will continue to be a major priority for Brimbank police – no one should ever have to feel unsafe in their own home,” he said. “This is why our local police, including detectives from the family violence investigation unit, are out every day and knocking on doors of offenders to ensure they know they are being monitored and reassuring victims that they are supported across the Brimbank area.”

former AFL premiership player and advocate for mental health

Thomas O’Reilly.

Tom

Boyd,

and councillor

Former Western Bulldogs star Boyd shared hisstorywithmentalhealthandthetechniques heusedduringhisAFLcareerandcontinuesto use, in order to achieve happiness and balance. Boyd has long championed opening up the conversation of mental health, and authored his memoir, ‘Nowhere to Hide’, a candid account of his own personal struggles with mental health.

The event brought the community together in a united celebration for Men’s Health, featuring everything from health checks to Tai Chi demonstrations and much more.

Hannah Hammoud

Brimbank councillors Victoria Borg and Thomas O’Reilly celebrated Men’s Health Week at the Westvale Community Centre. (Damjan Janevski) 341105_03

Brimbank Community Grants Program 2023/2024

SpongeBob SQUAREPANTS

SpongeBob SquarePants is a yellow anthropomorphic sea sponge who usually wears brown short pants, a white collared shirt, and a red tie. Like real sea sponges, he can filter-feed and reproduce by budding. He lives in a pineapple house and is employed as a fry cook at a fast food restaurant called the Krusty Krab. He diligently attends Mrs. Puff's Boating School but has never passed; he tries his hardest on the exams but remains an unintentionally reckless boat driver. He is relentlessly optimistic and enthusiastic toward his job and his friends. SpongeBob's hobbies include catching jellyfish, blowing bubbles, playing with his best friend Patrick, and unintentionally irritating his neighbor Squidward.

You’re Going To Love

SpongeBob

Pool’s million milestone

The Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre has ticked off a new milestone, and the community was at the heart of the celebrations.

On Friday, June 9, the centre welcomed its one millionth visitor since the opening of the facility in September 2022.

Leading up to the milestone, the aquatic centre put the call out to the community promisingafree12-monthBrimbankLeisure membership to the lucky millionth visitor.

As community member Effie strolled through the doors on that Friday, the aquatic centre made good on its promise.

In celebration of the significant occasion, Effiewasshoweredwithconfettiandawarded a complimentary 12-month full access

membership to continue enjoying the centre.

Effiehasbeenamemberofthecentredating back to 2007 at the old St Albans Leisure Centre. Effie has enjoyed visiting the aquatic centre and forming meaningful connections with the staff and fellow members.

Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire congratulationed Effie, noting the milestone moment.

“Thisisasignificantmilestone,considering BrimbankCityCouncilopenedthedoorsjust nine months ago,” he said.

“It’s fantastic to see so many people enjoying the facilities and the associated health, recreation and social benefits.”

Hannah Hammoud

Briefs

Cannabis seizure

More than $1.2 million worth of cannabis plants have been seized and eight arrests made across Brimbank and Melton, police announced on June 9. Police made the arrests as part of an operation targeting those stealing electricity to manufacture plants. Detectives executed 13 warrants in Brimbank and Melton, and identified nine hydroponic cannabis setups with three containing a commercial quantity of cannabis. Police also seized 11 electrical bypass units which were allegedly used to steal electricity, and were diverted to facilitate the hydroponic setup.

Seven arrested after pursuit

Seven people have been arrested following a pursuit and crash in Melbourne’s north-west. It is alleged police spotted a Toyota Prado speeding through roadworks on the Western Ring Road about 1am on Sunday, June 18. Officers attempted to intercept the vehicle but it sped off, police said. The Prado was then involved in a collision with a Holden Commodore at the Ballarat Road off ramp. The teenage male driver of the Prado ran from the collision but was arrested a short time later. Six teenage males who were left in the Prado were arrested at the scene. No one was injured in the collision.

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One millionth visitor Effie pictured with the team at the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre. (Supplied)

Awards success brings recognition for top businesses

When Ravenhall gaming cafe Pro Gamers was nominated for the 2022 Melton Business Excellence Awards, few people in the business community were aware such a business was operating locally.

But owner Emanuel Cachia believes that changed when Pro Gamers won the Mayoral Achievement Award.

The award is judged across all Melton Business Excellence Awards finalists, and recognises outstanding performance in the judging criteria for their nominated category.

Pro Gamers had been nominated for the Adaptability Award.

“There was nothing like this in the area,” Emanuel said.

“There were similar offerings in America but there was nothing in our area.”

Emanuel said he was hopeful Pro Gamers would be nominated for the 2023 Melton Business Excellence Awards and encouraged people to nominate local businesses they felt were going above and beyond.

“Thereisalotofbenefittobeingnominated,” he said.

“Iwasjusthappywewerenamedasafinalist. It is a great reward for our hard work.”

Businesses can also self-nominate for the awards. This year the award categories are: innovation and transformation; equality, diversity and inclusion; disability and inclusion initiative; sustainable product or process; health, wellness and care; visitation and hospitality; new business or start up; professional services; and young entrepreneur of the year.

“Winning brought us recognition in the business community,” Emanuel said. “We were already quite well known in our community Australia-wide but a lot of the business community hadn’t come across us before.”

Emanuel and his wife started Pro Gamers to providelocalgamersaplacetobelongandmeet people with the same interests.

The cafe features board games, card games such as Pokemon, hobby models, posters and more, and provides gamers with a free space to play, as long as they purchase food and drinks from the cafe. It also runs weekly tournaments which are promoted on the cafe’s website and social media.

It has been operating in Ravenhall for nine years.

The Business of the Year Award will be decided by the judging panel from the individual category award winners.

Mayor Lara Carli said the awards were among the many council initiatives helping businesses thrive in Melton.

“Whether you’re a small, family-run operation, a large, well-established business, or something in between, it’s a fantastic chance to promote your achievements and the everyday services and products you provide to the community,” she said.

“Our businesses are the lifeblood of our community and council is proud to showcase their innovation, resilience and strength.”

Nominations close midnight July 7. The awards will be presented on September 27.

Details: melton.vic.gov.au/mbea

Pro Gamers’ Emanuel Cachia with mayor Lara Carli at the 2022 Melton Business Excellence Awards. (Ivan Kemp) 309827_46

‘‘ Winning brought us recognition ... a lot of the business community hadn’t come across us before ’’

- Emanuel Cachia

Mayor’s message

Cr Lara Carli

I’m proud to announce that last week, Melton City Council won the National Award for Local Government in Productivity through Infrastructure for our Moving Melton Transport Prospectus.

The Productivity through Infrastructure Award recognises local government initiatives that innovate in delivering better connections, safer and more efficient transport links and strengthen local economies – and it’s an honour that Melton won against incredibly stiff competition from thirteen nominees across Australia.

This is a huge achievement and a testament to the hard work our Council team does every day in advocating for more investment in Melton.

The Moving Melton Transport Prospectus outlines detailed road, rail, bus and active transport projects that better connect our community and attract investment.

You can check out our Moving Melton Transport Prospectus yourself at movingmelton.com.au

And a quick reminder to nominate someone who makes a real difference in your local community for our Community Achievement Awards by 7 July.

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

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

Feel free to contact me about Watts Ward or Council related issues on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au or visit my Facebook page at: facebook.com/Cr.LaraCarli

School holiday fun

With winter school holidays fast approaching, now’s the perfect time to book your kids into our exciting holiday activities!

From cooking to laser tag, pyjama parties to Christmas in July, a day at the movies, slime-making, dance and more, there’s something for everyone this holiday season.

Business Awards nominations open

Do you know a local business that goes above and beyond with excellent service, products and follow-up? Then nominate them for the 2023 City of Melton Business Excellence Awards!

Nominate your favourite local business today at melton.vic.gov.au/mbea

STAY INFORMED

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

facebook.com/cityofmelton

Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

Short story competition

There’s something for everyone –and almost all of it free – so jog on down to your local library, community centre or leisure centre, or hop on melton.vic.gov.au/schoolholidays to book in.

She Will exhibition

She Will, a new exhibition from Nanchok Santino Chol celebrating women in our South Sudanese community will open this month as part of the City of Melton’s Groundwork emerging artists program.

Watts Ward with Cr Justine Farrugia

A $114 million capital works program and $1.6 million towards 18 initiatives submitted by our community are two major features of Melton City Council’s 2023/24 draft budget. This includes $8.1 million for maternal and child health services, $8.3 million for services and programs for older people, and people with a disability and their carers, and $4.4 million for children, family, and youth services.

In addition to Council’s ongoing services, a capital works budget of $114.35 million has been allocated for new and upgraded infrastructure,

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all

including $29.4 million for local roads, $15.2 million to improve road safety, $14.2 million to upgrade local parks and streetscapes, $14.1 million to upgrade recreation, leisure, and community facilities, and $6.2 million for footpaths and cycleways.

Highlights for Watts Ward include $4 million for Hume Drive duplication (Stage 2) Calder Park Drive to Gourlay Road, $3.3 million for the construction of Diggers Rest Community Pavilion and Oval 2, $2.7 million for construction of Plumpton Community Centre and Neighbourhood House, $2.1 million for the construction of Macpherson Park

Melton City Libraries’ annual Short Story Competition is back – giving creatives across the city a chance to tell their story and showcase their talents. The competition is a chance for budding storytellers of all ages to develop their skills, have their work reviewed by popular authors, and have a chance to win prize money. To learn more, go to melton.vic. gov.au/MCLshortstory or visit your local library.

She Will pays homage to women from the South Sudanese community through a series of photographic portraits and interviews, drawing inspiration from Nanchok’s personal archives to highlight the stories of the women in her community. She Will is open at Melton Library and Learning Hub from 20 June.

Rugby Pavilion and Pitch (Stage 3) and $250,000 to finalise the master plan and schematic design and commence the detailed design for the Plumpton Aquatic Centre.

An $85 pensioner rate rebate will again be available to eligible property owners.

This is great news for local residents and provides positive outcomes for our community.

Feel free to contact me about Watts Ward or Council related issues on 0475 907 616 or email at justine.farrugia@melton.vic.gov.au

Mayor Cr Lara Carli

Deputy Mayor Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Justine Farrugia

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Kathy Majdlik

Cr Sophie Ramsey Cr Bob Turner Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

Excellence award for new centre

By Hannah Hammoud

Brimbank council was a dual winner and a finalist at the annual Parks and Leisure Australia’s Awards of Excellence, announced on Thursday, June 8.

The Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre was awarded the ‘Community Facility of the Year’ and the ‘Environmental Stewardship’ Awards of Excellence. Winning two awards means the facility is automatically included as a finalist in the National Awards later in the year.

Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire paid his congratulations to everyone involved in making the centre an integrated facility for the community to enjoy.

“Council invested a great deal in getting the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre up and running. And it’s paying off. Not only providinghealthandrecreationbenefitsforthe community, but also offering a range of other linkages and services through our co-located tenant partners,” he said.

“TheBrimbankAquaticandWellnessCentre also continues to garner praise and attention

Johnson stays at United

Young star Kahli Johnson will return to Western United for the 2023-24 A-League Women’s season after putting pen to paper on a new deal for the upcoming campaign.

The 19-year-old joined the club from Sydney FC and became a key part of Mark Torcaso’s inaugural United side, featuring in 17 matches and winning the team’s young player of the season award alongside Alana Cerne.

Johnson has just completed a camp with the Young Matildas where she played a starring role, scoring three goals in two starts to help the side qualify for the 2024 AFC under-20 Women’s Asian Cup.

Upon confirming her place in next season’s squad, Johnson said she was pleased to remain in green and black and take the next step in her career.

“I’m very happy to be re-signing with Western United for the upcoming season,“ she said. “This past season was such a great opportunity for me to get some game time and

really develop as a player, and I’m excited to continue to do that next season.

“I’m very keen to keep being successful here. I think last season was an awesome starting point for us and I can’t wait to keep growing and achieving more with the team.”

United football general manager Mal Impiombato said Johnson’s quality and potential was cause for great excitement in the club’s women’s program.

“Kahlihadatremendousbreakoutseasonfor us in 2022-23 and we are delighted to retain her for the following campaign,” he said.

“In addition to her obvious talent on the pitch, we have been thoroughly impressed by her mentality, work ethic and her eagerness to continue to learn and improve as a footballer and as a person.

“That is reflected in her impact on the group andherregularopportunitieswiththenational team,andweareeagertowatchhercontinueto progress over the coming season.”

for its design and environmental features.”

The centre is Australia’s first zero emissions aquatic centre powered entirely by renewable energy.Proudlyboastinga‘6GreenStar’rating, the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre is home to one of the largest rooftop solar PV systems on an Australian aquatic centre.

Cr Lancashire said for those who haven’t yet visited the centre, there’s even more reason to do so now.

“There are many people involved in getting projects like this off the ground, including the manycommunitymemberswhohaveprovided

input and feedback into the purpose, design, construction, and ongoing operations of this new and valuable community asset,” he said.

“Special thanks and congratulations to our partner organisations. Everyone involved can take pride in these nominations and awards.”

Glengala Road Pocket Park and the Cary Street Nature Escape, a project in partnership between Brimbank council, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, and Koorie Homework Club, were finalists in the Park of the Year and Playspace Award categories.

Kahli Johnsonm. (Supplied)

Funds for Deer Park Scout Hall

Young Victorians are encouraged to get involved in all that scouting has to offer, with upgraded facilities at the Deer Park Scout Hall.

Youth Minister Natalie Suleyman recently announced new funding to upgrade facilities atDeerParkScoutHall,whichwillhelpyoung people in Deer Park experience fun programs, make new community connections and learn the leadership skills Scouts has to offer.

The Deer Park Scouts has a Joey Scout unit

(ages five to seven ), Cub Scout unit (eight-10) and Scout unit (11-14).

Scouts Victoria is one of the state’s largest youth organisations with more than 20,000 members and 5000 adult volunteers. The number of young people participating in scouting activities has grown by 30 per cent in the last 10 years.

Scouts Victoria has a rich history of fostering teamwork, a sense of community andleadershipskillsamongyoungVictorians.

A playful production

WIT Incorporated Theatre has announced its next show, called Bleached, written by Laura Collins, debuting on Thursday, June 22, at the Bluestone.

Bleached speculates on a future where the climate crisis has become so catastrophic that nations are closing their borders one by one, which Collins said is absurd and comedic.

“It is speculated on a future crisis that has becomesocatastrophicandfeaturesAustralian tourists trying to travel the world before the entire world closes,” Collins said.

“It is comedic and uplifting at the same time, it is a human story featuring the human relationship with the earth.”

Collins said she drew her inspiration for the script during 2020 and the COVID lockdowns.

“I was fascinated and horrified by the hugely positive impacts the lock downs were having on the planet,” she said.

“Horrible things were happening while good things were happening simultaneously.

“Animals were returning to their habitats, Co2 emissions were reducing, the planet

was healing.”

Collins has been familiar with the climate change topic for some time now, often working with her climate scientist friends and partner as sources to better understand the topic.

“Climate change has always been something close to my heart,” she said.

“I would like to have children one day, but the climate crisis is impeding that decision in a major way,I often think about what future generations will have to death with.”

Ruby Rees will direct the play and six actors Lansy Feng, Madeleine Magee-Carr, Megan Mitchell, Sass Pinci, Anthony Pontonio and Eva Rees.

The set will be created using recycled materials with lighting and set headed up by Oliver Ross and Moya Lucy.

The show will run from Thursday, June 22 to Saturday, July 1.

Details: https://www.witinc.com.au/shows/ bleached

Jennifer Pittorino

Accessing scouting activities supports young people’s positive development and growth by creating opportunities for them to work with others, tackle challenges and lead in their communities.

Ms Suleyman said she was delighted to support young people in Deer Park and ensure they have access to all that Scouts has to offer.

“We know how important a sense of community is to our health and wellbeing and Scouts provides just that as well as a chance to

learn leadership skills and have a lot of fun,” she said.

These upgrades provide a gathering place for local youth to experience the exciting programs, community connections and leadership skills that Scouts Victoria has to offer.

“This funding will ensure our local Scouts can gather in a space that is safe and accessible for years to come,“ Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch said.

Cast members of Bleached, Megan Mitchell, Lansy Feng, Madeleine Magee-Carr, Sass Pinci, Anthony Pontinio and Eva Rees rehearsing before the debut. (Jacob Pattison) 341046_01

Inflation fuels demand for food

By Callum Godde, AAP

The cost-of-living crisis is eating into Victorian families’ ability to put food on the table, with more and more turning to charities to fill the gap.

Foodbank Victoria has recorded a 27 per cent rise in distribution this year, following a 21 per cent increase in 2022.

Demand for Victoria’s school breakfast

program has also risen by 40 per cent in the past 12 months, with the charity providing 2.4 million extra meals across 1000 schools.

“I’ve been with Foodbank for 15 years through (the) millennium drought, Black Saturday,BlackSummer,floods,thepandemic and this is the worst I’ve seen it in 15 years,” Foodbank chief executive David McNamara told reporters.

Mr McNamara said the crisis was attacking

the middle class in particular, but demand was rising across the state, with some charities reporting a 300 per cent increase in families seeking assistance.

“There’s really not one part that’s not feeling this,” he said.

“We used to say it’s people on the street, it’s people in your street. Now it doesn’t matter where you are.

“What were the bastions of the middle class

Celebrate the solstice at Seaworks

Seaworks Williamstown will be hosting the highly anticipated Winter Solstice Festival: Celebrating Maritime Heritage on Friday, June 23.

The festival is described as an extraordinary celebration of maritime heritage, captivating art installations,giant puppets, mesmerising circus performances, and a delightful array of food and mulled wine.

The Winter Solstice Festival offers a platform to immerse oneself in the enchanting history and traditions of the maritime roots deeply embedded in the local community.

From the mesmerising craftsmanship of traditional wooden boat building to the awe-inspiring presence of giant puppets, circus performers, and magnificent inflatable sculptures, the festival highlights the vibrant and diverse talents of Seaworks’ esteemed tenants.

This unique event provides an opportunity for attendees to embrace the spirit of the season in the dynamic atmosphere of our maritime venue.

By blending creativity, culture, and community, the Winter Solstice Festival promises to create a memorable and engaging experience for all who join.

Seaworks chief executive Glenn Jones said the team at Seaworks are delighted to bring the Winter Solstice Festival to the venue.

“It serves as a fantastic platform to showcase the incredible talents of our tenants and to celebrate the rich maritime heritage that defines our community,” he said.

Seaworks welcomes individuals of all ages to partake in the festivities, made possible by the Make It Happen Program through Hobsons Bay council.

Seaworks is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting the maritime heritage of Williamstown and the wider Melbourne community.

Through a range of engaging events and initiatives, Seaworks brings together artists, performers, and maritime enthusiasts to celebrate and honour the region’s unique heritage. Details: www.seaworks.com.au

Jennifer Pittorino

are now the suburbs that we’re seeing people turning up for assistance.”

Mr McNamara said he could not envision food demand plateauing soon as energy prices increase further and more homeowners come off fixed interest rates.

“Food inflation is still running higher than inflation itself,” he said.

“I don’t see it dropping for almost another year or so.”

Post-pandemic flight record

Melbourne Airport has set a new post-pandemic record for monthly aircraft movements, with a total of 19,714 flights arriving or departing last month.

There has been a 103 per cent increase in international travel between May this year compared to May 2022 and a 410 per cent increase in the current financial year compared to the previous.

To keep up with the demand for international flights, Vietnam Airlines is launching direct flights between Melbourne and Hanoi.

The new service will operate twice a weekusingtheairbusA350-900aircraft and will add to Vietnam Airlines’ existing flights between Melbourne and Ho Chi Minh City.

Melbourne Airport chief executive Lorie Argus said the flights would add extra capacity to one of Victoria’s fastest growing travel markets.

“The launch of today’s service means we now have 60 per cent more capacity flying to and from Vietnam than we did before the onset of COVID-19,” she said.

“Vietnam Airlines was the first airline to connect Victoria with Vietnam, but this is the first time they have connected the two capitals and we are pleased to see them expanding their offering from Melbourne.

“The increase in both international and domestic capacity is important because it will help put downward pressure on airfares at a time when cost of living pressures are causing strain for many household budgets.

“Melbourne Airport continues to plan for infrastructure such as our third runway to ensure we have room to enable this growth and keep Victorians and Victorian produce moving.”

Seaworks Chief Executive Glen Jones with one of the new art installations.

Offering a positive impact for those needing support

First Support Australia’s mission is to inspire positive change and make a meaningful impact on the lives of those needing support.

The registered NDIS provider operates in Victoria and certain rural areas with a team of over 100 dedicated professionals, including registered nurses, case managers, support coordinators and other specialists.

Together, the team provides over 3,000

hours of service each week to valued participants.

First Support Australia’s wide range of services include accommodation support services, and specialist care including high intensity 24 hour care.

Theteamiscommitted to makinga positive impact on the lives of those they support, and staff pride themselves on their ability to

discharge and commence services within 72 hours, ensuring participants receive the care and support they need, regardless of their location.

First Support Australia specialises in providing a comfortable and safe living environmentforparticipantswhorequire24/7 care, including those who require complex support, such as those with behavioural,

mental, and high-intensity needs.

First Support Australia also offers NDIS accommodationservicesconvenientlylocated close to local amenities such as hospitals, local shops, schools public transport, and other useful facilities to meet clients’ needs. Call 1800 008 989 or email info@firstsupport.com.au

Support from Carer Gateway helps Jess find ‘me time’

Jess and Blake are proud parents to two young daughters. Their oldest, Sadie, has GNB1 syndrome, epilepsy and autism. Jess is Sadie’s main carer and has been inspired to launch a range of planners and stationery for carers.

GNB1 Syndrome is a rare genetic mutation that was discovered in 2016. In four-year-old Sadie’s case, having GNB1 syndrome means global developmental delay, and hundreds of epilepsy seizures a day.

As a full-time mum to Sadie and almost two-year-oldPacie(whoisneurotypical)anda full-time disability carer to Sadie, Jess doesn’t get much time out. Life is full of the busyness of primary parenting two preschoolers and Sadie’s additional care needs and medical appointments.

Finding ways to get a bit of “me time” is one of the outcomes Jess values from her experience of Carer Gateway (carergateway. gov.au) after learning about the free support service especially for carers.

“I’ve really grown into my role of mum and carer. I’ve learned to let go of the pressure of the high standards I set myself as a mum and relaxed into utilising things like television, snacks and easy meals so that I can get a little break – things that previously would’ve had me feeling guilty,” Jess explained.

Jess has also found purpose in creating her own small business, At Sadie’s Pace

(atsadiespace.com.au), that she hopes will help other carers and people with disability to stay on top of the admin of caring.

“I had so much paperwork and so many different planners, and I just wanted it all in one place. It’s come from my experience but

hopefully it helps others. I’ll definitely use it myself!” said Jess.

Jess had the idea for the planners in March 2022 and works on them whenever she can.

Having the time to be a mum, carer and entrepreneur has been supported by Jess

reaching out to Carer Gateway for help. If you would like support and you care for a family member or friend with disability, mental illness, age or health issues, contact Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737.

Jess and her daughter Sadie. (Supplied)

‘‘ I’ve really grown into my role of mum and carer. I’ve learned to let go of the pressure of the high standards ’’ - Jess

Family violence pilot a success

A pilot program that trained doctors, nurses and other general practice staff to identify and support patients experiencing family violence has been declared a success following an in-depth evaluation commissioned by the federal government.

The program, known as Primary Care Pathways to Safety, was rolled out by North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) and involved practices in Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs. It was part of a national series of pilots, involving several primary health networks,

called Improving Health System Responses to Family and Domestic Violence, Following the successful evaluation –conducted by Sydney-based independent research organisation the Sax Institute – it is set to be expanded across the region and run until mid-2026.

Primary Care Pathways to Safety was co-designed by NWMPHN and University of Melbourne’s Safer Families Centre of Research Excellence. It comprised education and trainingsessions,underpinnedbyself-directed quality improvement activities.

Blooming marvellous

There is a sea of purple and white at the Harrick’s Cottage and Police Hut site in Keilor Park.

Brimbank council’s parks services and horticulture team has adorned the site with over 300 white Salvia Leucantha plants, complementing the existing purple variety.

The mesmerising purple and white spectacle decorate the grounds of the historic Harrick’s Cottage and Police Hut.

The planting project at the enchanting site follows a history of work by Brimbank council.

The 1850s Police Hut was restored and reconstructed in 2021, with the hut standing proudly along with interpretive signage on the Harricks Cottage site.

The Keilor Police Hut is an important part of Brimbank’s local history and is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.

KeilorHistoricalSocietymemberPeterWard said it is important to continue to preserve and care for historic spaces such as the site at 152

Harricks Road, Keilor Park.

“We need to care for these sites so we don’t lose our heritage and to remember some of the interesting things that took place here,” Mr Ward said.

“That’s part of the Keilor Historical Society mantra, our main purpose is to preserve and share the local history.”

One of the very few surviving examples of a 1850s pre-fabricated building, the hut was imported during the Gold Rush – most likely shipped from England – to form part of the Keilor Plains Police Station.

Community and heritage enthusiasts can now visit the restored hut to learn about construction techniques of the 1850s and how the police force lived and worked in times gone by.

The Keilor Historical Society welcomes new members. The group meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Keilor Community Centre at 7pm.

It assisted all staff, from receptionists to clinicians, to safely ask patients if they were experiencing,oratriskof,familyviolence(FV). For those who answered yes, some immediate responses were offered.

These included providing information on available resources, linking up with local family violence support services, and even, if needed, keeping them safe from harm while organising crisis help.

Afreshfederalbudgetallocationwillnowsee PrimaryCarePathwaystoSafety–nolongerin pilot phase – rolled out to another 30 practices

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in the NWMPHN region.

“In Victoria, intimate partner violence is the leading contributor to death, disability and illness in women aged 15 to 44,” NWMPHN primary health care improvement acting director Jessica Holman said. “General practitionersandotherprimaryhealthservices are well placed to respond to family violence becausetheyseevictim-survivors,perpetrators, andtheirchildren.Studiesindicatethatwomen are twice as likely to disclose family violence if asked by their GP or other member of a general practice team. “

Brimbank council has given the Harrick’s Cottage and Police Hut site in Keilor Park a facelift. (Supplied)

Let’s talk about incontinence

One in four Australians aged over 15 suffer from incontinence. This statistic may come as a surprise to many as incontinence is one of Australia’s great taboos. But as Hannah Hammoud discovered, the team at the National Continence Foundation is on a mission to change that.

Affecting over five million Australians, incontinence can range in severity from asmallleaktocompletelossofbladderor bowel control.

Celebrations for World Continence Week have kicked off, running from June 19 to June 25, with an aim to raise awareness of incontinence related issues.

Continence Foundation of Australia programs and projects manager Daniyela Rob said one of the biggest challenges surrounding incontinenceissimplyhavingtheconversation.

“It’s something that people don’t want to talk about,butthemorepeoplethatdotalkaboutit, themoretheywillrealisejusthowmanypeople it affects,” she said.

“Because people don’t talk about it, often someone who is experiencing incontinence is thinking, ‘oh it’s only happening to me, and I don’t want to share that’.”

Data from the Continence Foundation reveals 46 per cent of people who experience incontinence are under the age of 50. Ms Rob said a common misconception surrounding incontinence is that it is a natural part of ageing.

“People might think that their incontinence is an inevitable part of ageing, or after giving birth assume that it is bound to happen,” she said. “It becomes normal for them and so they don’t seek help, but there is help available. The Continence Foundation champions people finding the right assistance, and speaking to a health professional about what the right way to manage their continence might be.”

Ms Rob said that for many Aussies suffering from incontinence their quality of life is significantly impacted. For those living with incontinence, leaving their home for everyday activities can be a difficult task due to the fear of not having access to appropriate facilities.

This year, the Continence Foundation ran the Great Dunny Hunt campaign encouraging Australians to take pictures of their favourite public toilet and upload them to the National Public Toilet Map (NPTM) website or app.

Submissions to the hunt closed on the first day of World Continence Week on Monday, June 19 with more than 600 photos uploaded across the nation.

Ms Rob said the Continence Foundation continues to garner huge support and gratitude from people with lived experience of incontinence.

“It helps raise awareness and opens up the conversation about bladder and bowel incontinence” she said.

“It also means more people know where to seek support and that’s always a good thing.

“It is really important that people seek help and talk to their GP or ring our National Continence Helpline because there is help available for people.”

The continence services offered at Western Health include help to treat, better manage and even cure incontinence related issues.

Sunshine Hospital continence clinic

manager Susan Cronin said it is important that people living with incontinence understand that there are many treatments and strategies available to them.

“Partofourserviceoncepeopledoreachout, is to say that it’s OK to talk about it and it’s OK that you’ve sought assistance,” she said.

“We’re here to help you and you’re not alone in this.”

The Western Continence Service offers assessment and management of urinary and faecal continence issues, with a goal of promoting self-management whenever possible.

Forthosewishingtoseekhelp,itisimportant to have a referral from a medical doctor, which includes GPs, specialists and hospital departments.

Ms Cronin said Western Health offers a multidisciplinary service to assess and treat adults experiencing both bowel and bladder continence issues.

“Often we will contact people by phone to ascertain what their challenges or issues are and also plan how we can help them achieve their goals. We then make a clinical decision withthemastowhatpathwaythey’lltake,such asseeinganurseorphysioorhavingdiagnostic testing,“ she said. “Once we gather everything we need, we put a plan in place to help them, and we then work with patients on how we can achieve their continence aims.”

MsCroninsaiditisimportanttoopenupthe continence conversation and remove the taboo that has long accompanied it.

“Where I think the shift needs to occur is people not feeling embarrassed to say that they have continence issues,” she said.

As part of World Continence Week, the Continence Foundation will be hosting a lived experience panel webinar on Wednesday,

June 21. The webinar will feature a group of panellists discussing their lived experience of incontinence, barriers to seeking help, common misconceptions about incontinence and how to change the narratives around this common condition.

Australians can reach the National Continence Helpline for free, confidential advice from Nurse Continence Specialists on 1800 33 00 66, from Monday to Friday from 8am-8pm.

Sunshine Hospital continence clinic manager Susan Cronin. (Damjan Janevski) 341459_01

Continence Foundation of Australia programs and projects manager Daniyela Rob. (Supplied)

‘‘ Where I think the shift needs to occur is people not feeling embarrassed to say that they have continence issues ’’

- Susan Cronin

1 in 4 Australians are incontinent

The art of tessellation

Sydenham Library hosted an Islamic ceramic tile workshop inspired by the intricate tessellations found in mosques around the world.

The workshop was run by the Islamic Museum of Australia, teaching participants how to form clay into clay tiles and imprint geometric patterns found in Islamic art and architecture.

Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski visited the library to capture the unique creations.

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

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

The workshop was run by Islamic Museum of Australia facilitator Merve Onder.

Claire (above) and Lee Agius (right) show off their crafty work.

From the beautiful floral inspired Persian art to the geometric art of Morocco, participants chose their own unique tile. Pictured with their work are: Sheila Grixti (above left), Reef (above right), Renee Pomozan (below left) and Monique Howard (below right). (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 341205

Memories of good old Sunshine

Growing up as a baby boomer in Whitty Street, Sunshine, home during the 1950’s was a great place for a number of reasons.

Our home was virtually opposite my school, Our Lady’s Primary, the church and the Mariana Hall in Monash Street.

The school population swelled following the influx of Europeans and Mediterraneans immigrating to Australia following World War II. We Aussie kids didn’t know how lucky we were because these ‘new Australians’ were friendly, smart and sporty. Because the majority of them were Catholic, they travelled to Our Lady’s from as far away as Deer Park, Ardeer, Albion and North Sunshine. The only problem they caused was the huge inflation of classroom numbers for the nuns to teach – there were a staggering 80 in my grade two class that were taught in a huge marquee!

Mum served us spaghetti (from a can) on toast which I enjoyed so it was an interesting experience for a young grade five boy to be invited for a meal at my ‘new’ school friend’s home especially when served spaghetti Bolognese, Italian style. I was battling with my meal, not being used to the long strands of spaghetti, when Maria, my friend Tony’s slightly older sister came behind and put her arms around me, placed a spoon and folk in each hand and showed me how to turn the spaghetti with my folk into the spoon.

Ours was a typical Sunshine family home – chooks, veggie garden, nectarine and lemon trees - Peter Power

Even to this day I keep in touch with some of these Maltese, Polish, Ukrainian, Italian kids by way of an occasional lunch, despite leaving Sunshine in 1969.

On the nearby Monash/Martin streets corner was the 1948 Australian heavy weight boxing champion, Jack Johnson’s milk bar where Mrs Johnson made delicious blue heaven malted milk shakes.

The Johnsons were also the first family in our area to purchase a television set. Soon after HSV-7 was officially launched in early November 1956, just in time for me to watch, on the Johnson’s TV, the Melbourne Olympic Games. Or, I joined the throngs of people who watched TV’s that were displayed in shop windows – kids sitting cross legged at the front, adults at the standing at the back.

A walk down the lane to the Monash/Tyler streets corner was an offshoot of Richard’s Dairy where Mr Steadman would take orders through a little opening in the brick wall. I’d stand on tippy toes to collect the pail of milk which mum sent me there for.

Also nearby was the the railway station, the post office with the monstrous silver metal weighing machine alongside the front entrance (now both gone!) and the Hampshire Rd shopping centre.

Our neighbourhood playground nestled on the corner of Station Place and Withers Street contained climbing equipment, a see-saw, monkey bar, merry-go-round, slide and swings. The swings had long chains and a group of us used to compete as to who could swing and leap the furthest with the landing spot marked with shoe mark.

Unfortunately the playground was destroyed in 1961 by the construction of the overpass and never replaced.

I’m pleased to write that Roc Kirby’s ‘Picture’ theatre, situated in Hampshire Road South is still with us but for how long?

Despite leaving Sunshine in 1969, I can still recall the names of many of the families that resided in Whitty Street all those years ago.

Ours was a typical Sunshine family home –chooks, veggie garden, nectarine and lemon trees and a fabulous passion fruit tree that grew along the lane side fence. And naturally

we had a budgerigar in a cage, cats and my best mate, Rip, a faithful dog who used to go everywhere with me.

We even had a tortoise that my brother Brian ‘found’ in 1955. We were visiting our Bendigo cousins and whilst walking alongside a nearby creek he saw what he thought was a snake with its head sticking out of the reeds, so he threw a 1/4 brick at it but, he discovered it was a tortoise, now with a cracked shell. Torts lived at my parents Whitty Street home for 50 years. He would hibernate under water during the winter and when he finally ascended from the bottom of his pool, Torts was hand fed with mince by various members of the family during the other seasons. Brian now has ‘Torts’ and 70 years later, it lives a life of luxury in Brian’s back garden enclosed in a large area with much greenery, a large pool of

water and is fed chopped up chicken hearts.

On summer nights, our wooden 1920’s home devoid of insulation, sometimes became unbearably hot and, without air conditioning we would camp out on the front lawn and try and sleep, mosquitoes and all.

Generally, families had one car and if it wasn’t driven to work, it was parked in the garage leaving the streets devoid of cars to play games in a safe environment. We were able to ride our fixed wheeled bikes for miles playing‘tiggy’withamatewholivedinnearby Servante Street, but we had to be home before dark.

I always felt safe except for one time when I was with a group of seventh Sunshine cubs out bivouacking in the paddocks East of Deer Park. I was swooped by a magpie and I was so scared I ran back to camp.

We were able to play cricket and kick a footy and play a host of games on Whitty Street and nearby side streets. When it rained, the water gushed down the Whitty Street gutter. We received immense joy racing our discarded Donald Duck X-29 icy pole sticks from the front of Chamberlins to the drain that was opposite our front gate, snatching our icy pole stick just before it disappeared down the drain forever so we could continue our boat racing.

The lane along side and behind our home was once used by ‘the dunny man’ up until Sunshine was sewered in the 1930’s. For years many families kept their outhouses that backed onto the lane as storage areas. All of these are gone now.

Inthe1950’s,mostofthehouseshadenough space in the backyard to play games such as cricket, unlike many of the houses that are now being built on housing estates.

The 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games was an inspiration to us Sunshine kids. I joined a group of boys and girls who organised some activities along side the McIntyre household in Parsons Street.

We sprinted 100 yards down Kingaroy Street, jogged around the Duke Street block for the 800 yards event, cycled all the way around Matthews hill reserve and back, did the high and long jump on the nature strip, threw a broomstick for a javelin and a half brick for the shot put. Such fun.

Sunshine kids were very excited by the opening of the swimming pool in 1961 which saved us a train trip to the Footscray pool where we battled for space in the water with hundreds of other kids from the western suburbs.

Little did I know that a mere seven years later in 1968, I’d be teaching swimming from late November to early March at the pool to hoards of local primary dchool children after graduating as a physical education teacher following my appointment to the Sunshine Inspectorate.

I hope my reminiscences will bring back good memories for you.

Former Sunshine resident Peter Power reminisces about life in the suburb in the 1950’s.

Peter Power outside his former home. Below: Peter remembers playing in the streets of Sunshine as a kid. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 335599

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

35 years ago

June 22, 1988

Health care in the western suburbs is deficient at virtually every level compared with the rest of Victoria, according to figures released by the Western Region Commission.

25 years ago

June 24, 1998

Sunshine traders and the local RSL club have vowed to fight the Western Bulldogs setting up a gaming machine venue in Devonshire Road.

20 years ago

June 24, 2003

Concerns about road safety and traffic management has led to residents forming the Sydenham Traffic Study Group.

10 years ago

June 18, 2013

Sunshine Residents and Ratepayers Association has accused the Regional Rail Link Authority of putting people’s health at risk after asbestos was found during railway works.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

The Freedom Pebble Project

As part of Refugee Week, locals are invited to the Freedom Pebble Project to decorate a pebble and write a special message on what freedom means to you. Both the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre and the Sunshine Leisure Centre will be running this activity on Wednesday, June 21, from 10-11am. Patrons and staff of both leisure centres including children attending the crèche at the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre are welcome to attend.

■ https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/events/ freedom-pebble-project

She Will Arts Exhibition

The She Will Exhibition by Nanchok Santino Chol runs until August 24 at The Bowery Gallery, St Albans Community Centre. The official launch of the exhibition will be held on Friday, June 23 from 6-7.30pm. The exhibition aims to honour and pay homage to women from the South Sudanese community within Melbourne. Locals are welcome to visit and enjoy the exhibition along with some traditional African cuisine and entertainment.

■ https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/events/ she-will-exhibition-launch

Living In Your Neighborhood Project

The Sunshine Leisure Centre is inviting locals for a tour of the space and to get acquainted on what services are available to you by council. This tour is designed for Afghan Women as part of Brimbank’s Settlement Action Plan that provides support to newly arrived migrants. The tour will run on Wednesday, June 21 from 2-5.30pm. There is no charge to attend the tour.

■ https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/events/ living-your-neighbourhood-liyn-project

Winter Energy Efficiency

Want to improve comfort and energy efficiency in your home this winter? Brimbank residents are invited to attend an expert webinar presented by energy experts Renew on behalf of the Western Alliance for Greenhouse Action councils. The webinar will run online on Saturday, June 24 from 10-11.30am.

■ https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/ register/WN_j-xzqi1OTi-shCE_I-U85w#/ registration

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 Café 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

Card games

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

■ Leisa, 0425 768 808

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. The Club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun night with a friendly group of ladies.

■ Robyn, 0425 387 880

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

■ 9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au

Deer Park Lions Club

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

■ Michael, 0417 307 572

Sunshine Community Brass

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

■ Andrew, 0419 444 620

St Albans senior citizens

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

■ Roma, 0435 991 064

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

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

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

Melton Cycling Club

Melton Cycling Club meets for regular Sunday rides. There are three different riding groups to cater for different abilities starting at 7.30am. The rides finish at Lazy Moe’s for a cuppa.

■ 0403 057 003

Community singing group

If you love to sing, come join the Melton Singers. The group rehearses regularly and also performs at aged care facilities. The group is very relaxed and sings songs mainly from the 60’s and 70’s. It meets Tuesdays at 10am.

■ Val, 0418 667 150

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Dean Formosa celebrating his 500th WRFL match. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

No. 138

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 Swallows liquid (6)

4 Extreme anger (8)

10 Row of columns and arches (9)

11 Female name (5)

DECODER WORDFIT 9-LETTER

Today’s

Aim:

16 words: Good

24 words: Very good

32 words: Excellent

A U A

S O E

A E

B

G E E K R

beaker, bear, bearer, beer, berg, boar, borage, bore, borer, brae, brag, brake, break, breaker, broke, broker, BROKERAGE, garb, grab, grebe, kerb, robe

aerobe, bake, baker, bare, barer, barge, bargee, bark, barker, beak,

No. 138

D E S C L A P S A U R A L S N O R E E A S E D D R E S S

QUICK QUIZ

1 What is the capital of Tahiti?

2 Is a mansard a type of roof, bug or soil?

3 Whose first novel was AnOpen Swimmer, published in 1981?

4 The vibraphone belongs to which family of musical instruments?

5 Suryavarman II was a 12thcentury king of what empire?

6 And in what country is the empire now located?

7 In what year did the Sydney Harbour Bridge open?

8 Independent senator Lidia Thorpe (pictured) won which electoral district in the 2017 by-election?

9 In a game of marbles, what is it to phernudge?

10 Molochhorridus is the Latin name for which Australian lizard?

LETTERS ALE AMP ATE BOA CAP DUD EGO EKE EVE EWE FEE GOO IRE KEG KEN MEN NEE NOD NOR PAT PEA PEG SAC TIE 4 LETTERS ANEW ARTS DABS DADS ERAS GAPS INTO NEST PEAR SCAB SEWN SUBS TREK WEAR 5 LETTERS ACUTE AFTOS AGAIN ALIEN ALIVE ALTAR APING APRIL AROMA AWAIT BAGEL BELLY CARGO CHINA CIRCA CREPT DEEDS DIRGE DOING DUNGS EAGER EATEN HOVER IMAGE INEPT MANIA METRO NANAS NEARS NOSES OCCUR PACES PASSE PEACE PENCE PERCH POUCH RODEO SAGER SANER SCENT SEDAN SHEDS SNIDE SONGS STONY STOOL STREW TRADE TRUED 6 LETTERS APPEAR DAMNED KENNEL MAKERS 7 LETTERS ATONING CONTAIN DUSTMEN EVASION IMITATE TORPEDO 8 LETTERS CHAIRING CREDENCE ECONOMIC ROMANTIC 12 345678910111213 1415 1617181920212223242526 W V S A L K Z T J Y R P B I M G X E U F D N O H C Q 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 23-06-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com 895432617 469173528 582347196 326719854 253864971 971286345 147658239 718925463 634591782 easy medium hard 842791356 316875924 634958271 593246817 478329165 187632549 761583492 259164783 925417638 198426573 419652837 987263145 632875419 853197624 364519782 745931268 276348951 521784396 1 14 7 20 2 15 8 21 3 16 9 22 4 17 10 23 5 18 11 24 6 19 12 25 13 26 HQ ANSWERS: 1. Papeete 2. Roof 3. Tim Winton 4. Percussion 5. The Khmer Empire 6. Cambodia 7. 1932 8. Northcote 9. To play one's shot improperly by edging one's shooter over the line 10. Thorny dragon

No. 138

No. 138

No. 138

Springs Boulevard

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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)

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Genesis GV60 ‘goes like crazy’

By Ewan Kennedy and Julie Saville

TheGenesisGV60isthesmallestofthreeSUVs from Hyundai’s luxury sub-brand behind the mid-sized GV70 and large GV80.

Each of the three models get different powertrain choices, the GV80 comes with turbo-petrol or diesel, as does the GV70 but with an EV option added. Our test vehicle, the GV60, is electric only.

Genesis GV60 sits on the same platform as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 with potential buyers sure to line up the three siblings alongside each other.

Firstly, while the Ioniq 5 and EV6 comes with the option of front-wheel drive, that is with single motor on the front axle, the GV60 is AWD only with a second motor on the rear axle.

Power and torque when comparing the GV60 with the AWD Ioniq 5 and EV6, is almost identical at around 234 kW and 605 Nm with the GV60’s range of 454 km slightly less than the Hyundai (470 km) and Kia (484 km). The GV60 EV Performance variant lifts power to 320 kW but with no change in torque.

The most noticeable difference is price, with the GV60 EV selling for $107,700 compared with the Ioniq 5 AWD Techniq ($77,500) and the EV6 GT-Line ($87,590). All are before on-road costs.

Styling

Though it’s called an SUV by Genesis, the GV60 is very coupe-like in its appearance. It’s streamlined from the bonnet to the rear spoiler, has a short front overhang and sits on a long wheelbase at 2900 mm.

The Genesis signature Crest Grille is in a lower position than in other GV models that have internal combustion engines. This is to make for the different cooling requirements specific to the dedicated high-performance EV platform.

Julie says, “This is a beautiful car. It has this gorgeous feminine rounded shape with a beautiful bottom. It is sort of half way between SUV and sedan.

“By far the most beautiful thing about the GV60 EV we road tested is the colour aqua green sea glass. It is beautiful and light and jewel-like. Almost like an opal.”

Interior

The interior design of the GV60 has what Genesis says “the ethos of the Beauty of White Space’ while seeking to create a spacious and comfortable interior.”

Julie says, “Combine this gorgeous exterior withacreamandseagreenleatherinteriorand this vehicle is just a delight to be in. It brings a smile to your face. With the super sleek remote you are set to drive off into the wild blue yonder.”

Passengers in the rear seat have plenty of legroom although the floor is slightly higher because the battery pack is under the floor. Also, the sloping rear window may make it a little tight for those travelling there. We suggest you take anyone who will be travelling in the back seats to come along when you’re considering a GV60 and see how they find the seats.

To make the GV60 more sustainable, various parts are created with eco-friendly and recycled materials. The seats, door armrests, console armrests, and crash pads are made with plant-based leather.

The seat covers and door centre trims have fabrics made with yarns extracted from recycled PET bottles and fishing nets.

Infotainment

TheGV60isthefirstGenesismodeltocombine the instrument clusters and navigation into a panoramic display where the content is connected throughout in clusters, navigation and head up display.

Sound is through a premium 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen with a sound control interface to provide a choice different sound mixes including Relax, Energetic, Bright and Warm.

Powertrain

GV60 has combined power of 234 kW, 74 kW from the front motor and 160 kW from the rear. The GV60 Performance steps that up to 360 kW, 180W at both front and rear.

Both variants feature a 77.4kWh battery which provide a driving range of 470km (WLTP) per charge for the base model and 466km (WLTP) per charge for the Performance variant.

Transmission in our test car is to all four wheels through what you could call a single-speed automatic transmission.

Safety

Standard safety features start with 10 airbags including a rollover-resistant curtain ‘bags and advanced ABS brakes.

Other features include Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Advance Rear Occupant Alert, and Multi-Collision Braking System.

Driving

Julie says, “The GV60 has space. It feels very comfortable getting into the driver’s seat. There is plenty of leg space and the seat is not too low. I have sat in all the seats in the car and

theyareallverycomfortablewithsufficientleg room. In the driver’s seat the feeling of space is increased by the sweep of the dashboard and the uncluttered instrument panel. Wait until you see the gear control at night!”

The door mirrors aren’t mirrors! Rather the view to the side-rear of the GV60 is provided by cameras that take a picture of the what is happening and transmits it to small TV screens inside the doors.

While this works well, we found it distracting at times because the screen on the driver’s door is too close. On motorways things are flashing past very quickly, particularly when in the fast lane.

Perhaps if I owned and drove a GV60 driving the car all the time I would learn to tune out from this. Maybe we should borrow a test car for at least a month and find out…

Anyhowlet’sgetawayfromthedoormirrors and talk about driving this fascinating car. This is a fascinating car in many ways, the door handles pop up when the driver approaches the car with their smart key.

The GV60 can recognise two faces, then adjust the settings for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and door mirrors.

There are three drive modes to choose from, Eco, Normal and Sport. The Eco setting makes the GV60 accelerate relatively gently. The Normal mode is the one we used for most our driving as we feel that’s what most

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

owners would do.

The Sport mode makes it go like a rocket and provide instant grunt to help you overtake in a short space when you see a chance to get past a slower car during country driving. Or you can simply use it just for the fun it provides!

The i-PEDAL regenerative braking mode enables a single-pedal driving strategy that allowsacceleration,decelerationandstopping of the vehicle using only the accelerator

Step into the back seats and the car’s nearly 2950 mm wheelbase affords rear passengers a huge amount of legroom, but as I noted above, the higher floor (due to the battery pack) and sloping rear window line may make the back seat a little less pleasant for taller occupant. Try before you buy…

Summing up

The Genesis GV60 EV is a most impressive piece of automotive engineering. It goes like crazy when you give it a boot full yet is happy to run quietly and gently around town.

Would I buy one? Not at this time, it’s very expensive and while the range is pretty good it still takes time to charge it up and that can be a pain at times.

It has a five-year unlimited distance warranty on everything with the exception of the high-voltage battery which is warranted for eight years and 160,000 kilometres.

The Genesis GV60 is a stylish and efficient electric vehicle. (Pictures: Supplied)

Ladder leading Falcons pressed by the Hawks

The City West Falcons were put to the test on Wednesday night in the Victorian Netball League championship.

The ladder leading Falcons struggled to break away from a determined Hawks side but eventually came away with a 64-52 win.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said the Hawks were a side that always really tested them.

“It took a while until the last quarter to get a bit of a difference,” she said.

“The Hawks are really aggressive and give us a good run. We have always struggled against them in the past.

“You get under pressure and be challenged.

Lind said they took a while to settle without Maggie Lind, who missed the game with a calf strain.

She said it took Maddy Gray and Soli Ropati a couple of quarters to settle without Lind playing.

Marg Lind said it was good though to show a bit more versatility and to get some more minutes into Ropati, who is returning from injury.

Jane Cook shot 60 of the Falcons goals,

continuing her good solid form of the last month.

Lind was also happy with the performance of Sienna Allen on Kaylia Stanton.

“Kaylia is really experienced,” Lind said. “It was an awesome battle and Sienna really settled into the role.”

Lind kept her circle defenders the same all game for one of the first times this season, wanting some height in the circle.

Attheotherend,itwasasmallfastattacking outfit that worked better.

“We played pretty much similar down the ends,” she said.

“We didn’t play Uneeq [Palavi] as much as we felt like the smaller attacking end with Jane at the back was working.

“It was hard to change things with the game being close.”

Lind said they needed a game like that having had a number of big wins in recent weeks

The Falcons under-19s had a big win after a 17-3 first quarter, while the division 1 side had a draw.

Lind said all three teams were in a really good position.

In the championship division, the Falcons now sit two games clear on top after the Boroondara Express suffered a loss.

“We have a bit of breathing space, but Melbourne University is making a huge challenge, Casey is making a huge challenge and the Blaze is coming hard,” Lind said.

“We have to play all three in the run home.”

The Falcons next game is against the Peninsula Waves on June 25. Lind said that Maggie Lind would likely return for that game.

Meanwhile, three Falcons players have been named in the Tongan squad for the upcoming World cup.

Uneeq and Beyonce Palavi, and Lucia Fauonuku have been named in a 15 player squad.

Morris shows versatility

By Jonty Ralphsmith

Hetakesbigmarks,kicks straight, and runshis defender around.

They’re the traits to look for in key forwards and Western Jet Logan Morris fits that to a tee.

The sole Jet to represent Vic Metro in their first game of the under-18 national championships on Sunday, the 192cm draft prospect played in an unfamiliar backline role.

Morris held his own, though, winning his share of the footy and nullifying his direct opponent, who at one stage was the highly-regarded Ashton Moir, to contribute to a big win over South Australia.

It’s a position he might play again in the second half of 2023, either in the national championships or Coates Talent League.

His read of the ball in the air allows him to get to the right spots and impact, highlighting his versatility – a sure way to enhance his prospects.

Butit’sinside50wheretheWerribeeDistricts junior’s stocks are known.

Morris has 48 goals across 19 Talent League games in the past 15 months, including three bags of at least four this year.

In the Jets most recent game, he kicked 4.1 and took nine marks, with his first half in particular laying the foundation for an upset

United locks in keepers

Western United has locked in its goalkeepers for the next A-League Men’s season.

United has gone with youth, with Tom Heward-Belle and Matt Sutton joining the green and black.

Both keepers have signed for the club after their teams had participated in the finals series this year, with Heward-Belle arriving from Sydney FC and Sutton departing defeated grand finalists Melbourne City.

Ahead of their arrival in the west, Heward-Belle and Sutton each expressed their excitement ahead of a new challenge in the A-League.

Heward-Belle said, “I’m super excited to join Western United and I am honoured to be given an opportunity at the club.

“I’m keen to start pre-season, hit the ground running, apply myself and get to know my new teammates.

“I’mlookingforwardtothechallenge ahead and I’m proud to be adding to an already successful team culture.”

win over the Eastern Ranges.

When he gets a clear run and jump at the footy, there’s no stopping him. He has a clear understanding of his leading lanes and he’s the man his teammates look for inside 50.

“How he identifies the ball in the air separates him from the rest, which is what the game is all about now,” said Jets forward coach Ali Hamad.

“He’s worked hard since he has come into the club – he’s got to work in the gym with Melbourne Athletic, and with the club on his smarts on-field, and his off-field habits have improved, so it’s all clicked together.

“He has got his body ready to play AFL and he has full belief in his ability.”

Speaking before the weekend’s game, Morris said his five games last year taught him about the required fitness to stamp authority on a game, something particularly pertinent to a player of his height.

That has been on show this season as he has hit up further afield to provide an outlet down the line.

“Emptying out quickly, getting goal side of my opponent and then when we win the ball, if I’m on the fat side, lengthening back to goals and beating my opponent there with my running ability, that defensive side has improved definitely.

“Getting my GPS back after the games last

year, I was probably a bit poor, so I have used that as a benchmark this year which has shown with my results after fitness was a focus of preseason.”

After kicking 13.3 in the first month of the season, he kicked just one goal from five shots in the Vic Metro trial game, with the Jets coaching staff noting how hard he’s worked on it off the back of that performance, as well as in preseason.

It showed against the Ranges.

“I have selected a set shot routine that I go to every time, so I’ve stuck to that all year and I’ll keep doing that going forward and hopefully kick a few more snags,” Morris said.

“It’s step right first, then six steps, then one slowoneonmyright,thenanothersixandkick away.Ifeellikeitwasanall-roundperformance on the weekend [against the Ranges].

“My marking, I thought, dropped off a bit at the start of the year, but then I felt it was back (last) weekend so it was good.

Having spent some sessions at the Werribee in the Victorian Football League, Morris made his VFL debut during the Coates Talent League community break, kicking two goals and impressing coach Michael Barlow.

Morris will next be in action for the Jets on June 24 in Wangaratta against the Murray Bushrangers, with Vic Metro’s next game is July 1 against the Allies in Queensland.

Sutton added,” “I’m absolutely stoked to be joining Western United, it’s a fantastic club with so much potential –I can’t wait to be part of it.

“I’m as keen to be involved on the pitch as I am off it, helping to grow the club in the west – I want to contribute in every way possible to help the club achieve greatness.”

United coach John Aloisi spoke of his delight at securing the signatures of two top goalkeepers for the upcoming campaign.

“We are extremely pleased to have Tom and Matt joining our club,” he said. “Both are top quality goalkeepers and people who will fit perfectly into our group.

“Both players have experience in top environments, being part of championship-winning teams and knowing what it takes to be successful even at such an early stage in their careers.

“Tom and Matt have a mixture of exciting qualities in goal and are eager to continue to learn and develop. We are looking forward to seeing them compete with each other throughout the season.”

Tara Murray

Logan Morris. (Morgan Hancock/AFL Photos)

Tara Murray

Sienna Allen. (Robbab Photography)

Western Suburbs aim to improve from third spot

Western Suburbs are right in the mix in the FV state league 2 north-west season.

Having initially aimed to consolidate its spot in the state league 2 competition after a tough 2022,thesidehasbeenoneofthebigimprovers.

After 12 rounds, Western Suburbs was sitting in third spot with eight wins among their results.

Club media Sasha Pete said they were doing quite well so far.

“When we spoke previously, it was about stabilising and consolidating,” he said.

“We’ve had some decent results and we’re now one point off second and playing for the title and promotion.

“There’s still a long way to go, but we’re right in the mix.”

Pete said they weren’t shocked by what they had been able to achieve this year, but had been pleasantly surprised.

He said coach Harry Matkovic, who had success at this level, was doing a really good job with the squad.

“We’renotconcedinggoalsandwe’rescoring quite a few goals, which makes for entertaining football,” he said.

“We knew that if we put the fundamentals in place we would have a good season. We have changed the squad quite a bit… We have put the framework in place, and Harry has

delivered on his pedigree.”

Pete said while in a perfect world the squad would continue to get better as the season goes on, but with injuries and being a semi professional competition.

He said all things being equal that they would continue on the same path.

“Many of the older supporters, who have shied away from the club, have come back,” he said.

“Our supporter numbers are growing and the attendance at games are going.

“Socialmediainteractionhasalsoincreased.”

Western Suburbs were set to face Altona East Phoenix on Saturday, after deadline.

The Phoenix was in second spot, only one point ahead of Western Suburbs.

Pete said it was a match they were keen to perform well in.

“We respect Altona East,” he said. “A lot of their coaching staff is western suburbs boys which adds a little bit of spice.

“Both teams need the points. The first game we lost 1-0 and thought we played really well,

Knights in the final 32

By Tara Murray

The Melbourne Knights are through to the national stage of the Australia Cup for the first time since 2019.

The Knights sealed their spot in the final 32 with a solid win against FV state league 1 side Yarraville Glory on Tuesday night.

TheKnightshadtodoitthehardwaycoming from a goal down at half time to win, 3-1.

The Knights finally found the back of the net in the 60th minute through Luka Kolic, who headed one into the back of the net.

The Knights took the lead in the 75th minute through Mitch Hore, before sealing the win when Ciaran Branwell scored in the 81st to give his side a 3-1 lead.

Knights coach Ben Cahn said they were thrilled to be back into the national stage of the competition.

“It’s good to tick that box,” he said.

“Given it’s the club’s 70th year and we have aspirations for the national second tier competition, it was a big goal of ours.

“It was a big expectation for the club to make the final 32 and it’s a big tick.”

Cahn said it wasn’t their best game and that the Glory made them work for it. He said in the end, it was that extra experience that paid off after what ended up being a tenser game than they would have liked.

“Yarraville made it difficult and defended really well,” he said.

“We missed a few opportunities and they took theirs. We made some substitutions and they paid off.

“The experience was the difference and the physical conditioning. We brought on two of the best wingers in the NPL competition and they played a big part in the three goals.

“We made it difficult for ourselves. If we had taken our chances early or even early in the second half it could have been a 6-1, 7-1 score line.”

The Knights are joined by the Goulburn ValleySuns,HeidelbergUnited,NorthcoteCity and the Oakleigh Cannons in the next round.

As well as qualifying for the national stage of

the Australia Cup, the Knights are through to the finals for the Dockerty Cup.

The Knights will face Northcote City as they aim to win their 10th Dockerty Cup. The two will play in a play off game with the winner to face the Oakleigh Cannons in the semi finals.

Before that, the Knights were back in action onFridaynightintheNationalPremierLeague competition.

The Knights were set to face Port Melbourne, after deadline.

Cahn said it was a massive match in the context of their season.

“They are one spot behind us on the ladder, seven points behind us,” he said.

“If we win we can open up a good lead ahead of them. We want to be in the top four and we’re happy, confident and in good form heading into the weekend.”

In other matches that were scheduled for the weekend, Green Gully was set to face Altona Magic on Friday night, while the St Albans Saints were on the road to the Oakleigh Cannons.

but were a bit unlucky.”

In other matches that were scheduled for the weekend, Albion Rovers were on the road against Mill Park, while Westvale Olympic was set to face Altona North.

In state league 1 north-west, Westgate was due to face Whittlesea United, Brimbank Stallions were away to Corio, Keilor Park was to host Banyule City and Altona City and Sydenham Park were to face each other in a top of the table clash.

Tara Murray

Thunder ready to go on a run

Keilor Thunder coach Trevor Burnette is confident his side can go on a run in the back part of the National Basketball League 1 South season.

Having had an interrupted season with imports arriving late and injuries, the Thunder is yet to show its potential. They entered the weekend’s matches in 17th spot with four wins.

Burnette said they were hoping that would change the next few weeks.

“We are trying to make a run,” he said. “We finally got everyone here and it was going to take a few weeks to gel.

“We then had a few injuries. Maddi Puli is back, Grace Graham is back, we’ll look to make an eight game run.“

Burnette said the return of Puli and Graham had been massive as it took the pressure off some of the younger players who were still developing.

Burnette said they had started to play some good basketball before the break which included a win against the Dandenong Rangers and pushing the Geelong Supercats after being 22 points down.

“We are right there,” he said.

“We are doing well and really want to make a run and push for finals. If we don’t get there we will change some things and go again.”

The Thunder was set to face the Knox Raiders on Saturday night, after deadline.

Burnette missed the game due to being overseas, but will be back this weekend.

This week is a big week for the Thunder, with the side playing an exhibition game against the Philippines national team on Tuesday night. Burnette said they would field a young side with the focus on NBL1 competition but it would be a good opportunity for them to play against an international side.

The Philippines team was also hosting a clinic for local basketballers beforehand.

Tara Murray

Western Suburbs have had a strong season so far. (Supplied)

Melbourne Knights are through to the national stage of the Australia Cup. (Mikko Robles)

Saints score another thriller and move to sixth

St Albans knows how to win the close ones, winning a second thriller in three rounds in the Essendon District Football League division 1.

Going for a third straight win, the Saints were pushed all the way on Saturday against Craigieburn.

Playing at D.S Aitken for the first time, it would end up being a low scoring affair.

Just two goals were kicked in the first quarter, with the Eagles kicking three goals to two in the second quarter to lead by five points at the main break.

The Saints kicked the only two goals of the third quarter to take a 10 point lead into the final break.

The Eagles came hard in the final quarter

and reduced the margin to under a goal, but it wasn’t enough with the Saints winning, 7.8 (50)-7.6 (48).

Bol Kolang was the only multiple goal kicker for the Saints, kicking two goals.

Adeola Akintola and Jayden Kretiuk were named the Saints best.

The Saints now sit in sixth spot, a game outside the top five.

Deer Park continued on its winning ways, beating Keilor Park at Keilor Park Reserve.

The Lions started the better of the two sides and were able to keep the Devils goal less in the first half.

The Devils finally hit the scoreboard in the third quarter and were able to win the term to trail by 21 points at the last break.

The Lions saved their best for last, kicking five goals to two in the final quarter to win, 12.9 (81)-5.9 (39).

Lachlan Smart continued his good form, kicking four goals while Todd Elton kicked three goals.

Jack Dorgan and Kane Testa were named the Lions best.

The Lions sit second on the ladder.

Hillside had to work hard for its win against Glenroy.

The Sharks trailed at quarter time before turning it into a 28 point lead at half time, having had 13 more scoring shots. The margin stayed steady in the third quarter, with the Lions winning the last quarter, but it wasn’t enough with the Sharks winning 8.15 (63)-5.10 (40). Tyson Gill was named the

Sharks best.

In premier division, Keilor continued its good form with a massive win against Essendon Doutta Stars.

The Blues led 54-1 at quarter time and the margin was 88 points at half time with the Stars still without a score on the board.

The Blues continued on their merry ways in the second half, winning 23.26 (164)-2.5 (17).

Christos Kosmas and Jack Brown kicked four goals each for the Blues.

Corey Ellis and Nick O’Kearney were named the Blues best.

In division 2, Burnside Heights and Taylors Lakes both suffered losses.

Sports shorts

Soccer

Western United duo Jaclyn Sawicki and Angala Beard have been named in the Philippine squad for the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Sawicki has long been a member of the team, while Beard has been selected for the first time having previously played for the Matildas. She is eligible to represent the Philippines through her mother, who is from Cebu. The squad will be cut to 23 players for the tournament.

Football

Keilor’s Sarah Grunden was named in the under-23 all-stars game that will take on an under-18 Australian team. The All-Stars squad was selected from nominations supplied by all Victorian AFLW clubs. Grunden’s Calder Cannons teammate Kayley Kavanagh was also named in the under-23 team. Western Jets duo Kristie Lee Weston-Turner and Kiera Whiley were named in the Australian under-18. The match was set for Sunday.

Football

Sunshine is heading in the right direction. (Local legends Photography)

Roos want to bridge gap

By Tara Murray

Sunshine is heading in the right direction despite an up and down start to the Western Region Football League division 2 season.

Having come down from division 1, the Kangaroos were sitting in fifth spot after eight rounds with a 3-4 record.

Coach Ben Chapman said there had been a lot of positives so far, despite it not necessarily reflecting on the scoreboard.

“It’s been little bit up and down to be truthful,”hesaid.“Ourbestfootyissomereally good footy.

“When we’re not playing good foot we are a little bit off. We need to bridge that gap.

“We’re only seven games into the season. Withover50percentnewplayersitwasalways going to take some time. We are on the right track.“

Chapman, who is also new to the club this season, said many of the players that had come to the club were still fairly young, which

contributed to the lack of consistency at times.

He said while the results weren’t necessarily where they wanted them to be, they are confident that they are still around the mark.

“We are improving and we’re on the right track, it’s not all doom and gloom,” he said.

”We have a young list and new players.

“There’s been no pressure on final results, it’s about getting the stepping stones right and getting them in place.”

AnotherpositiveforChapmanisthestarting to see some of the young players in the club come through.

Noah Andreula, who is 16, made her debut before the bye and went quite well. He was set to play on the weekend again.

Chapman said they had started taping their games to help them better review their games and where they need to improve.

He said they had already picked up areas which they need to work on.

“We’ve been really competitive,” he said.

“We need to limit the damage when we don’t

have control of games. The biggest thing has beenperiodsinquarterswherewedropoffand don’t play at a high level.

“We need to get the balance right and close the gap between our best and worst.”

The Kangaroos were set to face fourth placed Wyndhamvale on Saturday after deadline.

It came after a bye.

Chapman said the stop start nature to the season so far hadn’t helped the group get any consistency.

He said they were looking forward to the last block of the season where they play games consistently back-to-back.

Chapman said the Wyndhamvale game was a pretty massive one for their season.

“Every game is a big game for us in this competition,” he said. “If you don’t come to play, you don’t win too often.

“We need to get our part right. It’s more abouttheprocessthanresults.It’saboutgetting the process right for larger periods then in the first seven rounds.”

Five Western Jets players were named in the Vic Metro squads for the under-18 and under-16 national championships which got underway earlier this month. Werribee Districts Logan Morris is one of two Western Jets players named, along with Bacchus Marsh’s Lucca Grego named in the under-18 squad. There were three Western Jets players named in the squad, including the son of gun. Thomas McGuane, who plays at Keilor, has been named in the squad alongside Williamstown’s Finnegan Davis and Point Cook’s Thomas Burton. McGuane is the son of Collingwood premiership player Mick McGuane.

Football

Seven Western Jets players had the chance to push their case to be named in the Vic Metro squad for the under-18 girls national championships. A trial match between two Vic Metro squads was played on the long weekend, to help pick the final squad. Kiera Whiley, Stella Cossey, Tamara Henry, Megan Smart, Lou-Lou Field, Sarah Grieves and Krystal Russell were among those to play in the game.

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