Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 27th June 2023

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Art displays female will

An exhibition paying homage to women from the South Sudanese community has opened in Melton.

SheWill is an interdisciplinary project initiated and led by local artist Nanchok Santino Chol in collaboration with Buok Duach.

The exhibition features a series of photographic portraits and interviews. Chol drew inspiration from her personal archives to highlight the stories of the women who have contributed to the growth of the west’s South Sudanese community over the past 10 years.

“SheWill is about emphasising the importance of community and how community is vital for collective and individual growth,“ she said. “The women that I have had the privilege of capturing through this exhibition have built and strengthened their communities over many years.

“I hope this exhibition encourages young girls and women to have open dialogue and start documenting life through photography and videography mediums.”

The exhibition is at the Melton Library and Learning Hub, 31 McKenzie Street, Melton, until October 5.

Roundabout safety fears

By Laura Michell

Brookfield resident Kylie Blaszczyk fears a roundabout planned for Clarkes Road, which will take up the whole frontage of her property and require her to reverse her car out of her driveway into the roundabout each time she leaves home, is an accident waiting to happen.

Ms Blaszczyk said council did not notify her of the planned roundabout and that the first timesheheardaboutitwasonJune13,whenshe received a flyer from Winslow Constructions. She said her driveway will exit into the middle of the roundabout. To the left of the

driveway is a school crossing. The roundabout will also act as an entry to Brookfield Primary School.

“I will … be backing out of my driveway into a roundabout, looking to my left to watch for cars entering the roundabout,” Ms Blaszczyk said.

“This road is already very busy in the morning due to it being the main road into Brookfield Acres and the kindergarten at the end of the road. How busy will it be when you add it as the main school entry and make it the entrance to the new estate? How will I back out safely with this kind of traffic?

“When I am backing out, looking to my left for cars, I will also be contending with pedestrians accessing the school crossing very closetomydrivewayonmyright.Icannotlook both ways at once … I am greatly concerned thatIwilleitherhaveanaccidentwhenbacking into the roundabout or hit a pedestrian with my car whilst backing out as I cannot possibly look both ways at once, especially with how busy that area will be.”

Ms Blaszczyk said her elderly father, who lives with her, is refusing to drive out of their house once the roundabout is built amid fears he will hit a car or a pedestrian

Sheiscallingforcounciltoconsiderbuilding a service lane to separate driveways from the roundabout.

A council spokesperson said residents were notified of the works.

The spokesperson also said that it was “common practice” across Melbourne for driveways to enter T-section roundabouts.

“Council does not believe the proposed design would have any adverse safety outcomes and traffic modelling from traffic engineers demonstrate safe manoeuvring is enhanced by the addition of the roundabout,” the spokesperson said.

Nanchok Santino Chol. (Damjan Janevski) 342306_01

Greg Lynn trial date set

By Karen Sweeney, AAP

A trial date has been confirmed for accused Caroline Springs double killer Greg Lynn, but there’s concerns about his ability to fund the case.

Victoria’s Supreme Court was originally set to hear Lynn’s trial for the murder of campers RussellHillandCarolClayinOctoberthisyear, but those dates will now be used for extensive pre-trial argument ahead of a new trial set to start on February 13 next year.

Judicial registrar Tim Freeman raised concerns about Lynn’s ability to fund his defence after defence barrister Dermot Dann KC confirmed no funding was in place.

It’s understood there have been delays with Lynn’s application for services through VictorianLegalAidandMrFreemanindicated he could ask or order VLA to prioritise the case if required.

MrDannsaidalternativecoursestofundthe matter privately were also being pursued but theywerefacingroadblockswithoneapproach, and issues over an interest that Lynn may have in a property with another option.

Aseparatelegalproceedingovertheproperty is stalled in the civil division of the Supreme Courtuntilthecriminalmattersaredealtwith.

Mr Dann said he would be prepared to continue with pre-trial hearings scheduled to begin on October 16 even if the funding issues remain.

“My client is anxious to maintain this timetable,” he said.

Funding for a February trial may not be a concern if Mr Dann is successful in arguments he is expected to make during those pre-trial hearings, including to have significant part of the prosecution case against Lynn thrown out.

He has previously flagged efforts to have Lynn’s multi-day interview with police

removed from the brief of evidence.

Lynn was interviewed by police over four days in November 2021.

Details of his full police interview have been suppressed, along with details from a covertly recorded conversation and statement made by him to police in July 2020.

The court heard prosecutors had filed additional evidence in the case earlier this month, with four statements including one from police about phone records.

More evidence including call charge records

Community grants awarded

A scoreboard for Ballan Recreation Reserve and an arts sculpture for the Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance highlight the recent round of Moorabool council community grants.

Council approved the community grants recipients at its council meeting earlier this month.

Ballan Football Netball Club received $54,917 for an electronic scoreboard at the Ballan Recreation Reserve.

Mayor Rod Ward said the new scoreboard would complement the new pavilion being built at Ballan Recreation Reserve.

“The recreation reserve will look fantastic with the new pavilion and scoreboard erected,” Cr Ward said.

may still be filed, prosecutor John Dickie said.

Lynn was charged in November 2021 with murdering the campers, whose missing persons case became one of Australia’s most high-profile crime stories in March 2020.

It’s alleged Lynn, 56, killed the couple on March 20 that year, while they all camped in the remote Wonnangatta area of Victoria’s alpine region.

He faced court by video link from the Melbourne Assessment Prison on Thursday 22 June.

Other grant recipients were Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance, which received $3000 for a public art sculpture; Wombat Regional Arts Network, which received $3000 for a concert; Blackwood Times, which will benefit from $3000 for technological enhancements; Ballan Shire Historical Society, which received $5000 for book reprinting; Elaine Mechanics Institute Hall, which will buy life saving equipment with its $1844 grant; Moorabool Gardens for Wildlife which received $1000; Bacchus Marsh Lawn Tennis Club, which will put its $3000 grant towards an inclusive tennis tournament; Mount Wallace Hall and Reserve, which received $3000 for open mic events; and Woodlands Wildlife Rescue, which was given $2910 for a community awareness project.

An artist’s impression of Greg Lynn at an earlier court appearance.

Baby owls take flight

Three young owls are back in the wild after recuperating at Werribee zoo for more than two months.

The trio were found in the hollow of a tree that had been cut down on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Awildlifecarertookthebirdstothezoofora full health check under anaesthetic.

They weighed just 300 grams each and had a full examination, including blood tests and X-rays.

For the next nine weeks they lived in an enclosedspacethatsimulatedatree-likehollow and were fed a wild diet so they could gain strength.

They were then taken to a specially-designed aviarynearTorquaytohelpthemadjustbackto

life in the wild.

Werribee Open Range Zoo veterinary nurse Layla Merritt said hand-raising the birds was critical to their survival because owlets needed at least 14 weeks of care before being strong enough to leave their nests.

“I was incredibly proud to see what beautiful birds they have beco me,“ Ms Merritt said.

It’s believed their parents took flight after losing their home.

Ms Merritt asked anyone considering removing old trees to check whether any animals were living inside the wood.

Anyone who sees an owl in distress is asked to keep their distance and contact Wildlife Victoria.

– AAP

Briefs

School funding

Toolern Vale and District Primary School will embark on a maintenance blitz in coming weeks after receiving $23,499 through the state government’s planned maintenance and bushfire preparedness programs. Melton MP Steve McGhie said the government was striving to make sure schools in Melton are safe and comfortable to give students the best possible settings to learn and thrive in.

Youth Fest grants

Youth-led events in Melton will receive a boost after being part of the successful recipients of the 2023 Victorian Youth Fest grants The Fijian Community Association Victoria, Melton libraries and Melton Specialist School will each receive $2000 from the grants. Victorian Youth Fest is a month-long celebration in September, which provides grants of up to $2,000 to eligible organisations to host events, led by and for young people aged between 12 and 25. It provides opportunities to showcase talents, grow networks and to connect with peers. Details: youthcentral.vic.gov.au/ youth-fest FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

One of the owl triplets treated at Werribee zoo. (Werribee Open Range Zoo)

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 training sessions, underpinned by self-directed quality improvement activities.

Hikers hit the gorge

AchillesMelbournemadethetrektoWerribee Gorge earlier this month, giving participants opportunities they normally wouldn’t get.

The group received funding through the Bupa Foundation Community Grant program to fund their regional hiking program.

The aim of the Achilles hiking program is to enhance participation in regular physical running-walking-based activities, provide access to regional areas of Victoria, that are noteasilyaccessibletopeoplewithadisability, and ultimately improve participants’ mental and physical health.

As Melbourne’s premier running club for people with a disability, Achilles Melbourne coordinated a trip to Werribee Gorge with a group of 16 vision impaired members and volunteer guides.

Bupa’s Natalie Blair, who is also a volunteer guide with Achilles Melbourne, said the trail was technical and involved a high level of verbalcuesfortheguides,butitwasafabulous

day out for all involved.

The trip to Werribee Gorge was one of four excursions to Victorian regional areas made for Achilles Melbourne made possible by the Bupa program which has been running since 2019 and invested more than $260,000 to community organisation across Australia and New Zealand in the last year to help support improved mental health and environmental sustainability.

Bupa Asia Pacific chief sustainability and corporate affairs officer Roger Sharp said grass-roots organisations play a unique and important role in supporting people and their communities with their mental and physical health and achieving better environmental outcomes.

“Encouraging Bupa’s people to be active in the community is vital in delivering the Foundation’s mission to unite our people, customers and the community in creating a healthier world.”

Boutique living in Armstrong Creek

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

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. “

Achilles Melbourne participants at Werribee George. (Supplied)

Warm up with winter school holiday fun in Melton

It’s the middle of the year already which means winter school holidays. There are some great activities happening across Melton to keep kids entertained including cooking classes, hip hop, yoga and more! Bookings can be made at meltonlearning.com.au

THURSDAY, JUNE 29

Damo music for kids

Location: Fraser Rise

Time: 10am – 10.40am

Cost: Free

Age Group: 3 – 5 years

Create your own terrarium

Location: Taylors Hill

Time: 10am – 11.30am

Cost: $20

Age Group: 5 – 12 years

Games session Location: Melton

Time: 10am – noon

Cost: $5

Age Group: 5+ years

FRIDAY, JUNE 30

Hip hop for kids

Location: Strathtulloh

Time: 10am – 11am

Cost: $8

Age Group: 5 – 7 years

Green Earth Kids

environmental workshop

Location: Kurunjang

Time: 10am – noon

Cost: Free

Age Group: 5 + Years

Hip hop for Kkids

Location: Strathtulloh

Time: 11.15am –12.15pm

Cost: $8

Age Group: 8 – 12 years

MONDAY, JULY 3

Cookie decorating

Location: Kurunjang

Time: 10am – 11am

Cost: $5

Age Group: 8+years

TUESDAY, JULY 4

Yoga For kids

Location: Caroline Springs

Time: 10am – noon

Cost: $12

Age Group: 6+ years

FRIDAY, JULY 7

Dough it yourself –a playdough playtime

Location: Caroline Springs

Time: 10am – 11.30am

Cost: $5

Age Group: 8 – 12 years

SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN GAME ON 90’s 26 JUNE – 9 JULY 10AM – 2PM DAILY Location: Woodgrove Shopping Centre, In front of Woolworths

For details visit: woodgrove.qicre.com

Hip hop is one of the activities available in the winter school holidays.

Ameristralia: Melton’s micronation

As part of Melbourne’s sprawling growth corridor, Harkness in the outer west is home to an increasing number

of

new dwellings – and as Cade Lucas discovers, the micronation of Ameristralia.

Parentscangotogreatlengthsandexpense to advance their child’s education. Some pay thousands in private schools fees and tutors, while others invest in sports equipment and musical instruments.

Or,ifyou’reMeltonfatherDavidBrooke,you start your own country and appoint your kids to run it.

Yes, you read that correctly.

“We were having a conversation about how things were in the world and how governments go about their policies and treating their citizens and we thought ‘why don’t we make a country,” Mr Brooke said.

“Mychildrenarehome-schooledandthiswas justawaytohelpteachthemaboutgovernment, civics and community engagement.”

SoonFriday,August13,2021(acoincidence accordingtoMrBrooks),thefamily’s650square home in Harkness near Melton was declared the Sovereign Municipality of Ameristralia. Mr Brooke became His Sovereign Highness Prince David, his wife Her Sovereign Highness the Duchess of Brookfield and each of his five children assumed ministries of state.

A flag, constitution, coat of arms and currency were also established as a suburban street in Melbourne’s outer-west became home to the country’s newest micronation.

Defined by Encyclopaedia Britannica as: “an entity that claims to be an independent state but whose sovereignty is not recognised by the international community,” micronations are something of an Australian specialty.

“Australiareallyismicronationcentral,”said professor George Williams, a constitutional lawyer and academic at the University of New South Wales, .

“We’ve got maybe a third of these being calculated worldwide, so more than any other nationthatwecansee,”saidprofessorWilliams who co-authored the book ‘How to Rule Your Own Country: The weird and wonderful world of micronations’, late last year.

“And you know, we tolerate them and I think it’s sort of part of the Australian spirit, thumbing your nose at authority.”

Rather than thumbing their nose at authority, some of Australia’s more prominent micronations have shook their first at it.

The most famous of all, Western Australia’s Hutt River Principality, was formed in 1970 out of a dispute with the WA government over wheat quotas and lasted for half a century before closing in 2020.

InVictoria,theIndependentStateofRainbow Creek was created in 1979 by farmers seeking compensation from the state government for a bridge damaged during a flood in the state’s alpine region.

At one point Rainbow Creek issued its own currency and stamps and even declared war on Victoria, before its leader Thomas Barnes retired to Queensland due to ill-health.

But for every separatist movement there are dozens more that are far less serious .

“Look, most of these do have an element of humour,” said professor Williams

Some, such as Jimland, the April Fools joke made earlier this year by Jim Penman, owner of the franchise empire of the same name, are outright parodies.

While more serious than that, Professor Williamssuspectsabitoffunisbeinghadwith Ameristralia.

“I mean, even the idea of setting up your own country with the symbols, giving yourself the title, in this case, the Sovereign Prince, it’s clearly tongue in cheek and good on them.”

Even the name, an unsubtle reference to Michigan born Brooke’s duel (or is that triple?) nationality, suggests that His Sovereign Highness might be having us on.

“A lot of people kinda laugh ‘oh so you started a country haha,” said Mr Brooke of the initial reaction he gets, before noticing a change when explaining it more.

“When I tell people why they say that’s a pretty nifty idea man.”

Given that idea was to teach his kids about

Left: Sovereign Prince David Brooke, Ameristralia Head of State.

Above: Ameristralia’s flag and coat of arms.

Right: Constitutional and micronation expert, professor George Williams from the University of New South Wales.

(Pictures: Supplied)

the workings of government, Mr Brooke leaves the running of Ameristralia to them while he maintains his day job as a mobile technician to pay his family’s and country’s bills.

“You would compare to me to the monarch, I’m the head of state” said Mr Brooke of his largely ceremonial role.

“All of my children are the cabinet.

“We have a minister of immigration and citizenship, minister of education, we have a ministerofenvironmentandnaturalresources, a minister of treasury and investment, health and human services and then foreign affairs and trade, but I am actually acting in foreign affairs in trade.”

And the Prime Minister?

“So instead of a prime minister we have a chiefministerandacabinetandmy14-year-old son Kyson is chief minister.”

A teenage boy as a national leader?

“Hedoesalright,”saidhisfather. “Itrytoget him to be as formal as I can, but they’re kids.”

Along with gaining hands on experience in civics, Mr Brooke hoped his kids would benefit from Ameristralia’s politics

“We’re very socially progressive country, we don’t believe in war.

“People solve problems by sitting down and having a discussion.

“Maybe this is a good way for them to learn about that so when they grow up they can take that outlook into the world.”

This more left-wing worldview explains another feature of Ameristralia that separates

it from many other micronations.

“WepaytaxestotheAustraliangovernment,” declared Mr Brooke, a contrast to many other micronations that have a secessionist, anti-authoritarian bent.

Professor George Williams said this just reflects the reality that there’s no way for micronations to secede from Australia, even if they really wanted to.

“None of this affects Australian law, none of this affects the fundamentals so it’s performative.”

Professor Williams said this was why governments usually ignore micronations as they are largely harmless and only crave attention.

Neither the Victorian government or Melton council would comment on this story.

However, Professor Williams said micronations can still play a role in drawing attention to certain issues, such as the Gay and Lesbian Kingdom of the Coral Islands which promoted LGBTQI rights and various Indigenous groups who have declared themselves sovereign, a hot topic in the lead up to the Voice referendum coming.

In the case of Ameristralia, having almost 50 registered citizens worldwide means it is effectively a social club.

According to Mr Brooke, it’s a club that continues to grow.

“Some people just kinda go ‘oh really” and they go to the website and next thing you know a citizenship application comes through.”

Subsidence Issues?

‘‘ I think it’s sort of part of the Australian spirit, thumbing your nose at authority ’’ - George Williams

Have a bellissimo meal

La Porchetta has been serving up great Italian food in Melton for 24 years.

A unique dining experience for all at Tabcorp Park

An unique entertainment complex featuring a state-of-the-art Harness

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

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

Open seven days a week for lunch and

Tabcorp Park Melton

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

OPEN: 7 days a week lunch and dinner

ADDRESS: 2 Ferris Road, Cobblebank

PHONE: 03 8746 0600

WEBSITE: www.tabcorppark.com.au

No wonder customers love eating in at La Porchetta to soak in the magic Italians so well understand when you mix the delights of conversation with the pleasures of beautiful food and drink.

At La Porchetta staff strive to recreate this wonderful experience between families and friends at every meal. It’s not just the food, but the experience that keeps customers coming back.

La Porchetta is a great choice when it comes to dining out, offering an extensive menu at affordable prices backed by great service.

The restaurant offers a range of menu choices for people who enjoy gluten free, vegan and vegetarian dining.

For those who want to take-away, La Porchetta offers a fantastic bundle deal consisting of two large pizzas plus garlic bread for $27.90, plus 1.25L drink for $5 (pick up only).

In fact you can feed a family of four for as little as $7 a head if you take away from La Porchetta.

Weekly specials change every fortnight so follow La Porchetta on Instagram for your chance to win a $50 voucher.

And don’t forget La Porchetta for your next function. The restaurant has the capacity to cater for large functions so speak to the friendly staff.

La Porchetta Melton is located in the Woodgrove Shopping centre at 533 High Street, Melton West. Phone 9747 6777.

Away

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

Friendly staff and fresh food are

Fuelling a better future

Four months ago, western suburbs teen Jaxon Brewerwasattractingpoliceattentionforallthe wrong reasons, but an innovative automotive program has got him out of trouble and on track to an apprenticeship.

Flip My Ride, developed by AGA, is a free program for at-risk and disadvantaged young people in Brimbank, Melton, Wyndham and Maribyrnong to get them out of the justice system and positively engaging in the community.

Participants, aged 12-24, spend four months restoring a car and learning vocational and life skills along the way.

Mason’s Lane plan adopted

TheMason’sLaneReserveredevelopment plan has been approved with small changestothedraftplanthatwasreleased last year. At the June council meeting, councillors adopted the masterplan for the Bacchus Marsh reserve which is used by athletics, baseball, football, soccer, cricket and running clubs.

The short term plan includes a 400 metre synthetic athletics track and field, temporary off the leash dog park, playground location, improved reserve frontages and connections, and more shade, shelter and amenity.

Long term the master plan includes a new multipurpose and centralised community pavilion, a multi-purpose playing field, a walking and running loop, permanent off the leash dog park, car parkingandvehicleaccessimprovements.

In the program, participants learn about automotive trade skills, First-Aid, money management, taxes, anger management, and nutrition.

Jaxonwasoneof18participantswhorecently graduatedfromthelatestroundoftheprogram.

The15-year-oldhadafewrun-inswithpolice and was referred to the program by his youth worker.

“I thought I’d give [Flip My Ride] a go and I’ve stuck to it since,” Jaxon said.

TheprogramsparkedanewpassionforJaxon who now wants to pursue an apprenticeship with AGA.

“As soon as I turn 16 I want to get an apprenticeship either as an electrician or a chippie and once I get more knowledge, I want

to start my own business. It’ll be tough but I’ll give it a shot,” he said.

With the majority of participants coming from Victoria Police’s offender management program, Senior Constable Jonathan Loizou said police have seen a boost in confidence and school attendance since the program began last year.

“A lot of students are now open to assistance and coming for help, engaging with family, and are more supportive of our intervention as well. Being at school is not for everyone, myself included, but getting out there and learning a trade is what is getting these kids

engaged,” he said.

Lual, 18, is another participant and found employment after the program as a removalist at Elite1 Group. He was a high risk offender but Senior Sergeant Andrew Tsokallos is extremely pleased Lual is now on the right path.

Lual purchased the restored car, a Mercedes Benz E Class, with the proceeds being donated to Salvation Army in Derrimut, a charity of the students’ choosing.

Since finishing the program, six participants have expressed interest in pursuing further education and seven participants have re-engaged back with school.

Thechangestofinalmasterplaninclude the relocation of the short-term dog park to ensure there is a suitable distance from the dog park and little athletics activities., additional straight added to the athletics track to ensure the finish line is not on the opposite side of the spectator area, designated spectator area identified for little athletics in the long term and inclusion of outline of the footprint of a reorientated baseball diamond for future consideration and improved proximity to proposed new clubrooms. There is $200,000 in the allocated in the council’s 2023-24 financial year budget for implementation of master plan priorities. Upon adoption of the master plan, a quantity surveyor cost estimate will be undertaken on the short-term priorities.

YOURNEWCAREER ...startshere

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

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

Participants in the latest round of the Flip My Ride program. (Supplied)

‘‘ Being at school is not for everyone ... but getting out there and learning a trade is what is getting these kids engaged ’’ - Jonathan Loizou

A food crisis for working families

By Jennifer Pittorino

The Yarraville-based Foodbank Victoria is receiving 57,000 requests for food assistance every single day.

Foodbank’sMatthewTilleysaidtheextreme numbers are purely due to the increasing cost of living crisis.

“They are working families, a lot of them have donated to us before and now they are the ones needing help,” he said.

“We see the number of people bounce and jump directly with interest rate heights.

“At the start of the year we were feeding

50,000 a day; the most recent counts are showing significant jumps.”

Foodbank Victoria has been in operation for nine years, but Mr Tilley has seen a 50 per cent growth in the last two years.

“Usually we spent $50,000 a year on supplementary foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables, this year we have spent $5.2 million” he said.

“Fresh fruit and vegetable inflation has increased immensely.”

An Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) report released in April showed prices rose for all food categories in the past quarter,

with the strongest rises for non-alcoholic beverages, food products and fruit and vegetables.

The report also found the annual rise in gas prices of 26.2 per cent is the largest on record, reflecting this past quarter’s rise.

“We think it will get worse for people with the winter period, we know power bills and heating bills increase and become a real tipping point for people,” Mr Tilley said.

“People all of a sudden can’t pay one bill, they tip over once and they can’t catch up.”

Mr Tilley said Foodbank Victoria is seeing

Guide puts Werribee River on map

Whether it be Werribee South, Werribee Mansion, Presidents Park or Chirnside Park, the Werribee River flows past many of Wyndham’s most popular destinations and attractions.

But now the Werribee River itself could become an attraction thanks to a new guide launched on Thursday, June 22.

The guide, both the print version titled ‘Meet Me by the River’, and the website, is a project of the Werribee River Association and is aimed at promoting the river as a destination and helping visitors plan trips there.

Along with information on its various attractions and how to access them, the guide details Werribee River’s geology, flora and

fauna and Traditional Owners. Links for those interested in conservation, litter clean-up and river-keeping activities, includingwiththeWerribeeRiverAssociation itself, are also provided.

The launch event was held at Melbourne Water’s Western Treatment Centre, one of the guide’s project partners which also include Werribee Open Range Zoo, Wyndham council, Parks Victoria, Western Melbourne Tourism and Wadawurrung and Bunurong Traditional Owners.

Greater Western Water liveability adviser Darren Coughlan said the guide would continue efforts to promote and change perceptions of the river.

“All the work that is going on by Werribee

River Association, by Melbourne Water, and others, will help put Werribee River on the map as a destination,” Mr Coughlan said.

“More people should come here.”

The river guide forms part of Melbourne Water’s Lower Werribee Waterway Amenity Action Plan.

Copies of ‘Meet Me by the River’ will soon be distributed throughout Wyndham and beyond, while the online guide is available at: www.werribeeriverguide.com

Cade Lucas

such huge numbers because food is the one and only bill you can compromise on.

“You can come to us for food but you can’t go to a petrol bank, every other bill you have to pay,” he said.

“There is also a rental crisis, people are having to move further away from their jobs meaning they have to spend more on petrol, something needs to change.”

Details: https://www.foodbank.org. au/support-us/make-a-donation/donatefunds/?state=vic

Illegal dump court win

Two men who illegally dumped household waste in Coimadai have been fined $13,000 plus clean-up costs.

Moorabool council prosecuted the men in the Ballarat Magistrates Court after being alerted to a massive amount of household waste which had been dumped on the side of Reservoir Road, Coimadai, in January 2022.

Inastatement,councilsaidevidence from the rubbish led it to two residents from a neighbouring shire who told council they had paid a rubbish removal service to clean up and dispose of a large amount of rubbish from their home. An investigation proved this to be the case, council said.

Council began its court case against two men in September last year, with the case finishing on June 16.

The court fined one of the men $5000 and ordered him to pay $5000 in legal fees, while the other man was fined $8000 and ordered to pay $440 in legal fees. Both men were ordered to pay clean-up costs of $12,284

“This is a great outcome for preserving the health of our communities and the integrity of our natural assets,” council’s acting chief executive Caroline Buisson said.

“We hope this deters others from illegally dumping goods on Moorabool’s roadways, state parks or anywhere rubbish doesn’t belong.”

Council said the illegal dumping of materials, whether household, building materials, chemicals or general waste, costs it about $80,000 a year to clean up.

It encouraged any residents who see it occurring to contact council.

Residents are reminded not to search through the rubbish to see who it belongs to as this can hinder any legal proceedings.

All level crossings on the Sunbury train line will be removed by 2025

The Sunbury train line will be level crossing free in 2025, with the removal of the crossings at Old Calder Highway and Watsons Road in Diggers Rest.

The last two level crossings on the Sunbury line will be removed one year earlier than planned.

The state government said traffic flow will also be improved for the 6300 vehicles that travel through the level crossings daily, which is impacted by around 36 minutes of boom gate down time.

Transport and Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan said the Sunbury line is one

of six lines that will be free of boom gates.

“We’re making [the Sunbury line] free of boom gates along with the Cranbourne, Pakenham, Frankston, Lilydale and Werribee lines,” Ms Allan said.

“We’re thrilled to fast-track the Diggers Rest level crossing removals and we’ll now get on with the next step of the project [of] inviting the community to provide feedback.”

Sunbury MP Josh Bull said community feedback is a crucial part of all level crossing removal projects.

“We’re asking locals to get involved and

to have their say on this transformational project for Diggers Rest,” Mr Bull said. Community consultation to help inform aspects of the design has begun, which will also provide context about the flow of traffic and cyclist and pedestrian movements in the area.

The government said expert assessments have determined that road over rail bridges for Old Calder Highway and Watsons Road are the best designs for the area, with further engineering assessments and community engagement to be carried out.

The state government is also planning

for Melton to be boom gate free two years ahead of schedule, with a new Melton station to suit its growing population and allow nine-car VLocity trains to run along the corridor by 2028, when the Melton line upgrade is complete. With 70 level crossings removed, the state government said it plans to remove 110 more across Melbourne by 2030.

This will ease road congestion and improve access for trucks travelling around to industrial areas.

Details:engage.vic.gov.au/lxrp-diggers-rest Zoe Moffatt

Guests celebrate the launch of the Werribee River Guide at the Western Treatment Plant on June 22. (supplied)

If you are thinking of buying, selling, leasing

Bridge Road extention underway

Work to extend Bridge Road, Cobblebank, between Ferris Road and Adelong Boulevard, is under way

The $10 million project, which will link the Atherstone and Robinsons Rise estates, will provide access to the future Melton Hospital, expected to open in 2029, and to the St Francis Catholic School, the construction of which is near completion.

The state government has contributed $620,000totheprojecttosupportsewerageand conduit works required to service the hospital.

The roadworks will include an 830-metre extension to Bridge Road between Ferris

Road and Adelong Boulevard, the upgrade of the intersection at Ferris Road to a signalised intersection, the extension of all services and associative works surrounding the area on Ferris Road.

In June last year Melton council began preliminary works to extend Bridge Road and expected construction to begin in January 2023, however it was delayed after the identification of a number of indigenous artefacts on the site required a revised cultural heritage management plan.

The pause also slowed construction of St Francis’ Cobblebank Campus, which was

Celebrating refugees

MeltonresidentsmarkedRefugeeWeekwitha council-led celebration on Thursday.

The event at the Melton Community Hall featured entertainment from refugee groups, cultural food and stories from refugees and people seeking asylum.

South Sudanese refugee Sobur Dhieu spoke at the event, sharing her journey to becoming an inspiring young community leader in Australia.

Refugee Week is held annually from June 18-24 to provide an opportunity or the Australian public to celebrate the immense courage, resilience and valuable contributions people of refugee and asylum seeker backgrounds make to Australian society.

The theme for Refugee Week 2023 is #Finding Freedom, highlighting the journey refugees take to find freedom, whether it be through a new home, a new career or friendships.

Melton council said it organised this year’s Refugee Week event to celebrate the contribution of people from refugee and asylumseekerbackgroundstothecommunity.

The municipality has a diverse population with 40 per cent of residents born overseas according to Australian Bureau of Statistics data from the 2021 Census, up from 36 per cent at the 2016 Census.

The Census data also shows that 55 per cent of Melton residents had both of their parents born overseas, up from 47 per cent in 2016.

originally due to open for the 2023 school year, as a temporary access road couldn’t be used while the revised cultural management plan was being undertaken.

The cultural heritage management plan, including specialist site inductions, has now been completed and preliminary site establishment and construction has commenced.

The Bridge Road extension is scheduled to be completed by mid-2024.

Melton council expects minimal disruption to residents, motorists and the community during the construction works.

The latter part of construction will also include the signalisation of the Ferris Road and Bridge Road intersection.

Council will continue to work closely with St Francis Catholic School to ensure that ongoing access via Alfred Road is safe and secured for the duration of the project.

Mayor Lara Carli said the new road is key to unlocking Cobblebank’s full potential.

“This road connects our communities, provides access to the new school and future hospital precinct and will be instrumental to attracting further investment in this area,” she said.

Tackling family violence

A new project is on the way for Melbourne’s west featuring a collaboration between two of Victoria’s leading community organisations.

InTouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence and the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation have announced a new initiative to address and eliminate family violence within culturally diverse communities.

TheWorkingTogetherprojectaimstofortify partnerships and referral pathways between inTouch, The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation and key community organisations located in Melbourne’s West, including The East African Women’s Foundation and Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association.

The project combines specialist training, community outreach and events, resource development and the creation of safe and inclusive spaces – building the capacity of diverse communities to recognise, respond and refer instances of family violence correctly and appropriately.

A key component of the project is the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation’s long-running Daughters of the West (DOTW) program, a 10-week, free health and wellbeing initiative focused on engaging with women in Melbourne’s West. As part of this project,

three DOTW programs will be co-designed and delivered with the Vietnamese and East African communities in Melbourne’s west from July 2023.

This sharing of knowledge and expertise also extends to inTouch collaborating directly with workers at the Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association and the East African Women’s Foundation to help build their capacity to effectively respond to family violence in their communities.

The urgency of this collaborative effort is highlighted by an alarming increase in family violence incidents across Victoria, rising by 5.9 per cent since 2021.

The western metropolitan region of Melbourne, known for its cultural diversity, requiresdedicatedeffortstoaddresstheunique challenges faced by its diverse population.

InTouch executive manager Maryum Chaudhry said that in culturally diverse communities, instances of family violence are still far more under-reported. “It is crucial that access to appropriate support services be made available to all individuals experiencing family violence, regardless of their culture, language, visa type or location,” she said.

Hannah Hammoud

Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association project officer Kim Thien Truong, Western Bulldogs Community Foundation general manager Kashif Bouns, inTouch executive manager Maryum Chaudry and East African Women’s Foundation chairperson Fartun Farah. (Supplied)

South Sudanese refugee Sobur Dhieu was the guest speaker. (Damjan Janevski) 340438_01

Writing marathon for sick kids

By Hannah Hammoud

Taylors Lakes Secondary College students put their creative thinking skills to the test as they participated in a 12-hour writing marathon to raise money for kids with cancer.

Huddled into four groups, each group of students were tasked with writing an entire book in one day to raise money for The Kids’ Cancer Project, an independent national charity which supports childhood cancer research.

English teacher Stephanie Burrafato said the students were excited to put together their unique ideas to write something that may engage other children their age.

“This is for a good cause, where the students can learn about how the work they do can impact their community in a positive way,” she said.

The four groups were each given different topics to write on and given the parameter to

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

30 years ago

June 23, 1993

Melton has been gripped by a fever which looks set to spread like wildfire through the town. At a meeting last week 60 businesses committed themselves to Melton’sGreatHouse-and-LandGiveaway – and promotional fever has set in.

20 years ago

June 24, 2003

Melton East could have no land available for development in as little as five years, a state Department of Sustainability and Environment forum has revealed.

15 years ago

June 24, 2008

Caroline Springs police station will operate around the clock instead of for 16 hours a day, if a Liberal government comes to power at the next state election.

10 years ago

June 25, 2013

Changing course: New life breathed into Werribee River.

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

Melton Ladies Probus

Meets on the second Wednesday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton.

■ Dianne, 9743 7446

Botanic gardens group

Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden’s next meeting will be on Wednesday. July 12, from 7.30pm, at Bridge Road Children’s and Community Centre, 260-266 Bridge Road, Strathtulloh. Artist Craig Lidgerwood will discuss botanical art. There will be a raffle with tickets for sale for $1. Supper provided, BYP cup or mug.

■ John, 9743 3819

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 meets 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 Valley Ladies Probus Club

The Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 10am at Melton Country Club. New members welcome.

■ Ann, 0425 705 150

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

U3A Melton

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

■ 0419 563 016

Melton Combined Probus Club

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

■ 9746 0271

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park

The Rose Carers meet Wednesdays from 10am-noon at Maddingley Park, corner of Grant and Taverner streets, Bacchus Marsh, to maintain two beautiful rose gardens. New volunteers are always welcome – with or without experience.

■ Elaine Greenhall, 0418 171 119, or 0400 052 857

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

Rotary Club of Melton

The Rotary Club of Melton invites new guests to join its meetings, held on the first and third Tuesday of every month, 6pm at Tabcorp Park, Melton.

■ meltonrotary@gmail.com

Melton Trauma Teddies

Melton Trauma Teddies are seeking volunteers to assist with knitting, stuffing, or stitching teddy-bears that go to children in their time of need.

■ Jean, 0412 931 498

Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh

Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh make reusable shopping bags from rescued fabric. They need people to cut, sew, iron and market our bags. The group meets on the first Sunday each month at Darley Neighbourhood House 2pm-5pm.

■ https://63ec55b8628d6.site123.me/

Garden Club

The Bacchus Marsh and District Garden Club meets on the second Tuesday of each month except January, from 7.30pm, at The Laurels, 229 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh. Guest speakers and supper provided. Yearly membership or $15. New members welcome.

■ Michelle, 0421 106 268

Community Band

Greater Western Community Band, (founded 1991) is based in Melton. Rehearsals are on Thursdays, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, at Blackwood Drive Hall, Melton South. The group welcomes musicians young and old to come along and join in with the band. Also available for performance at events and festivals.

■ Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582

Community centre term three Melton South Community Centre’s term three program is available now for viewing and enrolments. The centre is at 41 Exford Road, Melton South.

■ meltonsouth.org.au, or 9747 8576

Bingo for all

The Werribee RSL hosts Bingo every Monday, except public holidays. Eyes down from 12.30-2.30pm.

■ 9741 5525

Western Budgerigar Club

The Western Suburbs Budgerigar Club meets at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of each month at Masonic Hall, 223 Watton Street, Werribee. Meet other members who are also passionate about breeding Budgerigars.

■ Don, 0414 975 862

Wyndham Ladies Probus

Are you recently retired or semi-retired?

Looking for fun, fellowship and to increase your social networks. The Ladies Probus Club of Wyndham meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Hotel520, Sayers Road, Tarneit, and normally has an outing or event on the third Wednesday of

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Xavier, 3, looking at the mirror at Melton Library which marked 10 years with face painting and other activities. (Damjan Janevski) 341946_01

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

No. 75 9 2 3176 4958

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Feudal workers (5)

4 Assumes the worst (9)

9 Awe-inspiring (7)

10 Progress (7)

11 Yellowish-green colour (4,5)

5 Reading or copying machine (7)

6 Insulting (9)

7 Central (5)

8 Bursar (9)

8573 4167 3 47 9

12 Body of troops (5)

13 Film special effects (acronym) (3)

14 Insect before butterfly

16 Agreement (11)

19 Type of fish (3)

20 Former US president (5)

22 Man-made (9)

25 Refractory (7)

26 Visuals (7)

27 Named for office (9)

28 Support (5)

DOWN

1 Actress, – Sarandon (5)

2 Armed resistance to authority (9)

3 Throw (5)

4 Ostensible reason (7)

easy 38 52 18

DECODER WORDFIT

92 14 4 836 46

71 692 7 27 53

5 839 79 92

medium 265 7 61 9 625

84 58 258 3

hard

Today’s Aim: 3

14 words: Good

N L A

R E

21 words: Very good 29 words: Excellent

U

I B N R G

begun, bruin, brume, burg, burin, burn, burning, ennui, enuring, erbium, grub, gunmen, gunner, imbrue, imbue, inure, menu, numb, number, NUMBERING, numbing, ruin, ruing, rumen, rune, rung, umber, urge, urine

No. 139

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

Y R S H U F F S A L L A H S T O K E T R U E D Y A R D S

2 Which superhero disguises himself as a reporter for the fictional DailyPlanet newspaper?

3 Which Australian author released their debut novel, MonkeyGrip, in 1977?

4 What genus of primate has the scientific name papa?

5 The de facto head of the Eastern Orthodox Church is the archbishop and ecumenical patriarch of where?

6 In what year was the Republic of Türkiye established?

7 How many member states currently comprise the European Union?

8 What is the majority language of the city of Brussels, Belgium?

9 What does the dutch word ‘handschoenen’ mean?

10 What is the musical stage name of US actor Donald Glover (pictured)?

LETTERS ADD ALL ASH ATE COD CUP DEN EGO ERA ERR EVE EYE HUM MEN MOP ONE OVA SEA SKI SPY TOO TOT USE WAD 4 LETTERS AEON APES AWAY BABE BAWL BEEN CYST DART HOSE INNS OATH ONES SCUM SHES 5 LETTERS AISLE ALIKE ALONE AMASS AMBOS ANGER ARISE AROMA ARROW BALMY BARES BEAMS BLASE CARVE DAUNT EATEN ENSUE EVENT GRUEL IOTAS MESSY MOTOR OLIVE OUSTS PERIL RISEN ROACH ROARS SANDY SCENE SCENT SEEPS SERUM SHEEN SHEET SMITH SNOOP STAND STUDY SWEPT SWOOP TESTY TIRES UDDER VISIT WAVES WEAVE WORST WROTE YESES 6 LETTERS EDDIES ODDEST SENSES TETHER 7 LETTERS BAGGAGE GUESTED MOTTOES NURTURE ORDAINS PRESENT 8 LETTERS GIGANTIC OVERLONG OVERSTEP PATIENCE 12 345678910111213 1415 1617181920212223242526 I E S R M X N T C J B G H O V D Q Z U A P Y F K L W 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 30-06-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com 435679128 573461892 157346289 761832945 816925734 648297513 982154367 294783651 329518476 easy medium hard 364817952 573961428 657198243 721359864 892543176 149236587 985624731 416782395 238475619 392651847 569243718 937462581 678394152 741586923 425817639 154728396 283179465 816935274 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 KW ANSWERS: 1. The Danube (10 countries) 2. Superman 3. Helen Garner 4. Baboons 5. Constantinople 6. 1923 7. 27 8. French 9. Gloves (hand shoes) 10. Childish Gambino

No. 139

No. 139

No. 139

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which basketball team won the 2023 NBA Finals, four games to one?

2. And which basketball team did they defeat?

3. By what score did Argentina defeat the Socceroos in their friendly match held in Beijing?

4. Media personality Matthew Johns played for which two NRL clubs?

5. Australian swimmer Kai Taylor is the son of which former champion swimmer?

6. ´Bazball’ refers to the play style of which nation’s cricket team since the appointment of coach Brendon McCullum?

Marlion Pickett last played for which AFL club?

Which Norwegian tennis professional did Novak Djokovic defeat to win the 2023 French Open?

Which NHL team won the 2023 Stanley Cup Finals, 4 games to 1?

10. And which NHL team did they defeat?

11. How many races will there be in the 2023 F1 season?

12. Which team currently sits on top of the NRL ladder?

13. How many runs do you get if you hit the ball over the rope without bouncing in cricket?

14. Next year’s AFL Gather Round will take place in which round?

15. In which year did Australia last host an Olympics?

16. And which year will they next host one?

17. Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja was born in which country?

18. Former wrestler Dave Bautista stars in which Marvel movie franchise?

19. True or false: Richmond’s most recent three premierships were in 2017, 2018 and 2020?

20. The Northstars play for which city in the AIHL?

21. What is the nickname for the jumper that Port Adelaide Power wear in certain games?

22. Which team did the Collingwood Magpies Super Netball team defeat in their last ever match?

23. What was the former city and nickname of the NBA team Oklahoma City Thunder?

24. Which country will host the upcoming Netball World Cup?

25. Which Victorian beach plays host to a World Surf League event every April?

26. Which country will host July’s World Aquatics Championships?

27. Which country will the Matildas play against in their opening match of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup?

28. What Major League Baseball team was based both in Florida and Buffalo, New York during the 2021 season due to travel restrictions?

29. Which English bowler was criticised for his overly aggressive demeanour towards Usman Khawaja after dismissing him in the first Ashes test?

30. What other language aside from English is an official language of the Olympic Games?

The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief

HR-V gets a new body-coloured grille.

(Pictures: Supplied)

Honda adds third SUV to range

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Unlike most of its competitors, that have up to five SUVs in their range, Honda currently has just two, the small HR-V and mid-sized CR-V. That’s about to change with a third variant, ZR-V, due for release in a few weeks and which will slot into the space between the other two. This week we’re reviewing the HR-V. When it arrived here in 1999 it was one of the first compact SUVs around and at once set the standard for what has since become one of the fastest growing segments of the automobile market.

Unfortunately, with its bland styling and three-door body, that original HR-V never really took off and it was subsequently discontinued in 2003. It remained off the Australian market until 2015 when the much more attractive five-door second-generation model arrived.

The third generation of the HR-V arrived here in 2022 with sleeker styling, advanced safety and driver-assist features.

It comes in two equipment levels with two different powertrains starting with the Vi X that’s powered by a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, and the e:HEV L hybrid powertrain. Our test was the petrol-only model.

Styling

The distinctive new HR-V grille design blends the intakes with the bumper and when combined with the sleek headlights, gives the HR-V a futuristic look. The grille is body-coloured (there’s a choice of five) rather than the more common contrasting chrome or black in-fill.

As is a growing trend the rear of the HR-V is a cross between an SUV and a hatchback in its lines but with embedded rear door handles suggesting that it’s a two-door coupe.

The lower-side panels are painted in black which makes them harder to see and therefore adds to the apparent ground clearance and SUV look.

Interior

The dashboard has the instruments in a binnacle with a curved top. The nine-inch

central screen is landscape in shape and therefore doesn’t give you a view ahead as is offered in a portrait screen.

Potential buyers need to be aware that the HR-V only comes with two rear seats. This isn’t necessarily a problem for two-plus-two families because the rear has comfortable and supportive bucket seats with a large padded armrest between them and a couple of cup holders.

Rearpassengersalsogetadjustableairvents, two USB-A ports and another drink holder in each door.

The rear seatbacks fold completely flat and the bases can be folded up to allow for taller objects to be carried.

Infotainment

The centre screen is a nine-inch touch unit but rather too shallow to give a long view ahead when using the satellite navigation. The problem for the interior designers is that there simply wasn’t isn’t enough room in the lower dash area for a better screen.

It has wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto.

Engines / transmissions

The four-cylinder engine isn’t turbocharged and has capacity of 1.5 litres with 89kW of power and 145Nm of torque. It is happy to run on standard unleaded petrol which can make a real difference given some of the crazy prices being asked for petrol at the moment.

It drives the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission.

Safety

The Australian ANCAP safety rating gives the HR-V five stars. The Honda suite of driver-assist and safety technologies includes forward collision warning, collision, mitigation braking system, lane keep assist system and lane departure warning.

Driving

The engine is relatively small and doesn’t produce as much power as we would like. It’s a typically Honda unit in that it likes to have plenty of revs on board before it really takes off. Keen drivers won’t mind this because once it’s given its head it’s a really pleasing unit to drive.

HRV 1.5 Vi X: $36,700

HRV e-HEV L: $47,000

SPECIFICATIONS

Honda HRV Vi X 1.5-litre petrol five-door wagon

Note: These are drive-away prices.

Handling is pretty good, with plenty of feel through the steering wheel. It’s able to easily take corners at speeds far higher than those who would be done by the typical family driver.

Ride comfort is a little on the firm side but after a couple of hours on our extended-drive part of our road test review the Honda HR-V westillfeltcomfortableso,again,thedesigners have done an excellent job.

Fuel consumption is rated at 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres in the hybrid variant and 5.8 L/100km in the petrol model. We averaged 6.6 in our petrol test car.

Standard warranty is five years and unlimited distance with the option of a two-year extension.

Summing up

Honda HR-V VI X is an interesting machine that, while it doesn’t have the straight-line performance that we like, it does have handling that we really enjoy. However, the lack of three seats in the back could make it difficult to sell when the time comes to do so.

Phoenix are giving promotion their best shot

It’s a big few weeks coming up for the Melton Phoenix as it tries to stamp its FV state league 5 promotion credentials.

The Phoenix are one of five sides currently in the promotion mix after 13 rounds in what is a tight top of the table.

Phoenix coach Darren Traynor said they were currently sure how many teams would be promoted, so they’re aiming as high as possible.

“Balmoral has a substantial lead on top of the ladder,” he said. “We don’t know whether there are two potential spots and a third through a play off.

“It should have been the case last year, when we finished equal first, but only one team went up.

“We should have been playing in state league 4. There’s nothing concrete and everything is still up in the air.”

Traynor said they thought they were tracking along nicely having been in every game that they’ve played except for one against Balmoral.

He said there wasn’t much between them and the other teams at the top of the ladder.

“We had 10 men when we lost to Bendigo

and Balmoral is a good side, who took their opportunities.

“West Point was a battle between second and third a few weeks ago. It was 2-2 and the last 20 minutes we had 10 men. We were the better team and we should have got the points.

“All four of us are vying for a promotion spot.”

Traynor said they were happy they had started to hit the scoreboard a bit more while restricting the opposition.

He said the next couple of weeks would be vital in their season.

Phoenix faced Deakin University on Saturday at home.

After leading 1-0 at half time, the Phoenix scored twice in the second half to seal a 3-0 win. The win moves the side to third on the table.

“The plan is to win the next two games at home,” Traynor said before the weekend’s game. “We play Deakin and they are decent.

“The big one is against Bendigo at home, which is just behind us. They are a fairly similar young side and they play similarly too.

“It will be a good challenge at our ground.

buy in has been good and training has been good, things are kicking along nicely. “

Sports shorts

RDNL

There were plenty of thrillers in the Riddell District Netball League on Saturday. Melton Centrals beat Lancefield by one goal, while Riddell snuck home against the Western Rams, 40-36. Woodend-Hesket had a good win against Diggers Rest, while Romsey beat Wallan, 48-40. Riddell remains on top of the ladder ahead of Riddell which had the bye.

VSDCA

Jacob Cassar. (Archivist Media)

Jacob finesses his craft

By Peter Howe

Jacob Cassar is a boxing devotee.

The sixteen-year-old son is the Victorian captain and part of a 36-member team about to head to South Australia for the National Boxing Championships in Adelaide.

“Ispendthreetofourhoursaweekwatching boxers from around the world box with my coach,” he said.

“I took up boxing after being bullied at school. I am passionate about anti bullying and helping young people to gain confidence through boxing the same way I have.

“I take different things from many boxers to improve my craft.”

Cassar has had 22 fights with a 22-0 record. He said his strength is in my ability to change my tactics mid fight.

“I can fight with a normal stance or quickly change to southpaw if my coach thinks that will give me an advantage,” he said.

“Mycoach,IgorPocevislikeasecondfather to me, we spend many many hours together and I am very grateful to him.”

Cassar played football as a junior with the Hillside but fell in love with boxing when one of his footy coaches got the players to put the pads on to improve their fitness

“What I love about boxing is the dedication it demands of you if you are going to succeed. It’s not easy to get up every day and train three times.”

“My role as Victorian captain is to get around all my team to ensure they are ready to train.”

The team ranges in age from twelve to eighteen and they train for two hours at a time.

It’s a skill-based session where all of us are matched in ability and weight.

“We spar for three to six minutes and change opponents,” he said. “It’s a tough two-hour session.

“I train three times a day, six days a week. A morning 90-minute walk with my dog starts my day, I then switch between swimming, pilates which is a strength and conditioning circuit and running around mid-day and then it’s off to Lionsden Boxing Academy every night for boxing.

“I am currently 60kgs and fight in the lightweight division. At 180cm tall I have a height advantage now, I can see myself getting to 67kgs as I get into my adult years.”

Cassar has won two Australian titles.

The first as a twelve-year-old and the second at 15, in 2022. As a featherweight he is ranked number one in Australia and the Commonwealth in his age group and 16th in the world.

In 2022 Cassar was selected as the best male boxer of the tournament in the under-19 Australian Championships.

Cassar was selected in the 2019-2023 Victorian Futures team by state coach Marcos Amado and was subsequently selected into

the AIS under-19s and emerging squad by the current Australian coach, Jamie Pittman.

Cassar has attended camps in Canberra at the AIS, which he is extremely grateful for the opportunity. There are only 12 boxers in that squad.

Cassar’s first overseas opportunity was with an AIS team that went to Thailand.

“It was an amazing experience; I have never had to cope with the heat and humidity that we had to box in,” he said.

“Thailand’s boxers are trained so differently to us in Australia. They also box so differently. It was an eye opener, that’s for sure.”

So, what does the future hold? With his parent’s support Cassar has left school to focus on his sport.

“My aim is to represent Australia this year in Germany and at the Youth World Championships in Croatia in 2024.

“Longer term is to medal for Australia at the 2026 Commonwealth Games to be held in Melbourne and the 2028 Las Angeles Olympics.”.

“I took up boxing after being bullied at school. I am passionate about anti bullying and helping young people to gain confidence through boxing the same way I have.”

The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and the Star Weekly Newspapers.

Melton has signed Josh Taylor for the upcoming Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association season. Taylor joins the Lions from Greenvale where he played as a spinning all-rounder the last two seasons in the first and second XIs. He has also played premier cricket in Queensland, played in the UK and played in the VSDCA with Oakleigh. Taylor is the third new signing for the Lions that are aiming to break back into finals.

Big V

Melton Thoroughbreds’ losing streak in the Big V men’s division 2 continued on Saturday night against the Sherbrooke Suns. The Suns took an early lead and were able to extend that to 12 points at the main break. The Thoroughbreds managed to half the margin heading into the final quarter, but weren’t able to get over the line, losing 90-81. Liam Allison top scored with 22 points. The Thoroughbreds remain bottom of the ladder. The Thoroughbreds this week face the Craigieburn Eagles.

NPL

Caroline Springs George Cross’ game with Nunawading City in the National Premier League 3 competition was postponed. The two teams were meant to play on Saturday at Nunawading, but the game was postponed due to poor ground conditions. The match will now be played on August 5 in the catch up round. The Georgies this Saturday host Geelong.

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Web: starweekly.com.au

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

“The

In state league 4 west, Spring Hills lost to Bell Park, 4-0.

Tara Murray

Alex Diamond. (Jacob Pattison)331336_08

Logarzo named in provisional World Cup squad

WesternUnitedstarChloeLogarzo’sWomen’s World Cup dream remains alive after being named in Australia’s provisional squad for the cup.

Football Australia on Monday announced a 29 player squad which will participate in the final preparations for the cup which is being held in Australia and New Zealand.

Matildas’ coach Tony Gustavsson said the provisional squad reflects a significant commitment and hard work from players and staff over the past two and half years.

“From the first day of our first training session in 2021, we said it would take 23 in 23 for the FIFA Women’s World Cup and everyone would have a role to play in that journey,” he said.

“What we have seen is that it has actually taken more than 23 players to bring us to this moment and for that reason I am thrilled to work with the players named in this provisional squad during the final phase of

our preparation.

“I have been impressed by their full commitment at every step, and now we have the chance to fine-tune and solidify our game plan ahead of a phenomenally exciting couple of weeks.”

For Logarzo, the selection comes after a tough couple of years.

After an ACL injury, Logarzo joined Western United on a loan deal for the start of the season, coming off the bench as she regained her fitness.

She then returned to America, but was let go and she returned to United signing a deal until the end of the 2023-24 season.

A foot injury meant she didn’t get to play in thebackpartoftheA-LeagueWomen’sseason which included a grand final appearance for United in its first season.

Logarzo has played 49 games for Australia netting eight goals.

Members of the provisional squad and staff will assemble on the Gold Coast, Queensland, to complete the final preparations for the

tournament in a closed high-performance environment.

Australia will then move to Melbourne wheretheywillhostworldnumberfiveFrance in its final pre-World Cup tune-up at Marvel Stadium on July 14.

Six players will be cut following the camp in Queensland.

Australia will commence its campaign against the Republic of Ireland on July 20 at Stadium Australia in Sydney before meeting Nigeria on July 27 at Brisbane Stadium, and completing their group play against Canada on July 31 at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium.

Burras’ ‘massive result’

By Tara Murray

Diggers Rest set itself for the big clash with Woodend-Hesket and came out on top to remain undefeated in the Riddell District Football League.

In a top of the table clash on Saturday, the Burras found a way to account for the Hawks for the second time this season, winning 13.8 (86)-7.10 (52).

Burras coach Jamie Lobb said it was a game thattheplayinggrouphadreallysetthemselves for.

“It was a massive result for us, it was a massive danger game,” he said.

“It’s a ground we struggled at even when they were down the bottom of the ladder. It was our best overall four quarter performance of the season.

“The group of players have played enough footy together now and are starting to gel and click with their roles in the side.

“We really set ourselves for this game. We went in with a game plan and executed it well.”

Lobb said they felt really comfortable after about 10 minutes of the first quarter.

They were able to build the lead throughout the quarters in a pleasing performance.

Lobb said the way the game was played, it played into their hands.

“We were able to play the way we wanted to play and they were rolling numbers back,” he said.

“Contested and clearance footy is our number one game and they are fourth or fifth in stoppages and clearances.

“We thought the guys in the middle would get the job done and they did.”

Lobb said the move to a more contested game of football came naturally with the playing group they have this season.

He said someone like Jaycob Hickey, who joined the club this season, led the way in that area but also had the ability to get the ball out quickly on the outside.

Lobb said they had found the right balance.

Mitchell Day kicked three goals for the Burras, while Hickey chipped in with two goals.

Lobb said it was a lot of usual suspects that led the way, along with a couple of others who really stood up when needed.

“Mark Orr went off in the second quarter and Hayden Davis rucked the whole second half and I thought had the better of [Tim] Martin.

“Josh Flower played well in his first game back from injury. Jaycob Hickey and Marcus Calveresi had good games as well.”

Lobb said Orr had a minor calf complaint

Shock loss for Hillside Sharks

Hillside suffered an upset loss in the Essendon District Football League division 1 competition on Saturday.

Facing Westmeadows, which had won just one game for the season, the Sharks produced one of their more disappointing performances of the year so far.

The Tigers scored the only three goals of the first quarter and led by 29 points at the main break.

The Sharks were able to reduce the margin slightly in the third quarter and trailed by 23 points heading into the final quarter.

The Sharks had their best quarter for the match in the final term, but it wasn’t enough with the Tigers winning 8.6 (54)-5.9 (39).

Bailey Ryan kicked three goals for the Sharks in his return from Victorian Football League duty.

Lachlan Henson and Jeremy Hayes were named the Sharks best.

The Sharks remain in third position, but are now two games behind Deer Park in second place.

Hillside this Saturday faces top of the table West Coburg.

In division 2, Burnside Heights lost a second straight match this time against the Northern Saints.

Aiming to get back on the winner list, the Bears trailed at quarter time against the ladder leading Saints.

The margin increased to 15 points at the main break and then 16 points at the final break.

Neither team was able to kick a goal in the final term, with the Bears kicking four points for the quarter.

The Saints got the win, 8.10 (58)-5.12 (42).

Jack Wylie was the only multiple goal kicker for the Bears, kicking two goals.

Skipper Jordan Hughes was named the side’s best.

which they were cautious with. Orr is set to miss the next few weeks anyway with a delayed honeymoon.

The win has the Burras two games clear at the top of the ladder.

Lobb said while he tries not to look at the ladder, but admits that he looked at it following the win and knows they’re set a good platform.

“We have to make sure that we don’t let our focus slip,” he said. “The guys are aware that there is a bigger picture we are looking at.

“There’s still some things that we still have to work on.”

In other results, Melton Centrals beat Lancefield, Wallan bounced back and beat Romsey and Riddell was too good for the Western Rams.

The Bears slip to sixth spot on the ladder, but remain a game outside the top four.

TheBearsthisweekfacefourthplaced Coburg Districts.

In the women’s competition, Hillside lost to Aberfeldie in premier division, while Burnside Heights beat the Sunbury Lions in division 1.

Chloe Logarzo has been named in the provisional Matildas squad. (Supplied)

Mitchell Day (Jacob Pattison) 329132_06

Bloods clear on top after their big weekend win

Melton sits a game clear at the top of the Ballarat Football League ladder after a big win and results fell its way on Saturday.

The Bloods had little trouble against Ballarat on Saturday, controlling the game throughout the day.

The Bloods led by 19 points at quarter time and the game was all but over at half time with the Bloods leading by 64 points.

The second half was much of the same, with the Bloods kicking five goals in each quarter to seal a 22.15 (147)-3.8 (26) win.

Ryan Carter and Brenton Payne kicked four goals each for the Bloods, while Ryan Davis, Luke Heaney and Braedan Kight kicked three goals apiece.

The Bloods didn’t name any best players.

The result has the Bloods sitting 8-1 and on top of the ladder, a game clear of Sebastopol, North Ballarat and Darley. North Ballarat is

the only team not to have the bye yet.

Meanwhile in other games, Darley slipped to a second straight loss, this time to Redan.

Playingathomeforthefirsttimethisseason, the Devils trailed all day in the 15.7 (97)-11.13 (79) shock loss.

The second and the fourth quarters were where the damage was done.

Will Johnson kicked four goals for the Devils, while Brett Bewley was named their best.

The Devils now slip to fourth on the top having been the only undefeated team not long ago.

Bacchus Marsh was outplayed in the second half in its loss against East Point.

The Kangaroos led by five points at half time before kicking 11 goals to five after the break to get the 14.14 (98)-8.7 (55) win.

Bryce Kerney kicked three goals for the Cobras, while Luke Goetz was

named their best.

The Cobras sit ninth on the ladder with two wins.

Melton South had the bye.

In the netball, Ballarat was too strong for Melton winning 57-35. The Swans built the lead throughout the match.

AshleeVaughanshot15goalsfortheBloods.

Melton sits in ninth spot with two wins for the year.

Darley remains undefeated after a big win against Redan.

The Devils trailed at quarter time before a big second quarter saw them open up a 12 goal lead at half time.

They went on with it in the second half, winning 54-32.

Rebecca Hicks shot 27 goals for the Devils.

Thereisacompetitionwidebyethisweekend due to football interleague.

Lakers cement top four spot

Caroline Springs ensured it remains clear in fourth spot with a solid win in the Western Region Football League division 1 competition on Saturday.

Facing a Yarraville Seddon Eagles side which was coming off its best win of the season, the Lakers were able to build throughout.

The Lakers trailed by a goal at the first break, before five goals in the second quarter gave the side a five point lead at half time.

The margin increased to 15 points at the final break.

Four goals to nil in the final quarter sealed a 13.9 (87)-6.14 (50) win for the Lakers.

Breen ready to tick list

By John Dunne

Jaunita Breen is hoping last Saturday night’s impressive Metropolitan Pace Final winner Roarforroscoe can deliver her harness racing bucket list.

Roarforroscoe ($6) made a sustained three wide run without cover for last 900 metres of the race joining the $2.40 favorite Beach Memories on the final bend and fought on resolutely in the home straight to score by a neck.

The48-year-oldBreenrevealedaftertherace of a long time ambition in the sport.

“I want to win a Group 1 before I turn 50,” Breen said.

“I don’t care which horse but he’s the most likely suspect,” she said.

Breen came within three metres of achieving her gaol when the son of Betterthancheddar finished runner up behind Catch A Wave in last year’s Group 1 Vicbred Super Series (3YO Colts & Geldings) final.

“He really ripped some ground off Catch A Wave over the last 400 metres after being three back along the pegs,” she said.

“He’s got a motor but I’m not sure he knows he’s got one or knows how to use it.”

Roarforroscoehasdevelopedacultfollowing after Breen donated a 10 per cent share in two yearlings to the Harness Racing Challenge.

“Steve Salter, who runs the competition, bought the 10 per cent in this bloke along with a couple of mates and he is named after Steve’s cousin Ross who passed away with

cancer,” she said.

“Apparently Ross was a keen Tigers fan who used to roar a lot at the football.”

Meanwhile Shane Sanderson’s decision to race Vanquish Stride ($26) out of his class was vindicated when the five-year-old ‘dive-bombed’ his rivals along the sprint lane in the Blacks A Fake Free For All.

There was a hint of confidence emanating from the stable pre-race when Sanderson indicated the son of Bettors Delight was ‘a sneaky chance from the pole’ and the race panned out to script for the Charlton based trainer.

Vanquish Stride settled three back along the pegs as the leader Huli Nien was allowed to stride freely throwing a 27.6 back straight quarter at his rivals and the five-year-old hugged the pegs scoring by a neck from the well backed leader in a slick mile rate of 1:52.

Thewinprovideda20thbirthdaypresentfor Ryan Sanderson who acknowledged the race couldn’t have unfolded any better.

“It’s the best birthday present- he got the dream run into it and that’s what we were really hoping for and it just all worked out,” Sanderson said.

“We bumped him up in grade so he could draw the one and he’s really good on the fence, he’s a bit of an opportunist if they roll along like they did tonight,” he said.

Outstanding trotting mare Queen Elida made it seven wins from her past eight starts when she outclassed her rivals in the Group 3 Hip Pocket Workwear Matriarch Trot and

driver Chris Alford was quick to rank her with the best he has driven.

“She’s as good as any trotter I’ve driven and the beautiful gate she’s got makes it extra good,” Alford said.

Alford also believes the daughter of Love You has the credentials to follow in the footsteps of Just Believe and prove competitive on the world stage in Sweden.

“I think if she got the chance she wouldn’t let herself or any of us down, that’s for sure,” he said.

A gear malfunction didn’t prevent emerging three-year-old Final Collect from completing a hat trick of wins in the Happy 60th Jeff Ewing 3YO Pace.

Final Collect pulled out from midfield in the running line to stake its claim with 500 metres to travel and driver Jackie Barker tried in vain to release the ear plugs around the home turn however the Lance Justice trained pacer defied all challenges in the home straight.

Barker said she was concerned when the ear plugs failed to release.

“IwasreallyworriedbecauseIcouldn’tgetthe plugsoutofhim,theygohookedupsomewhere and I was worried because he is so blocked up with his eyes if that horse got to him he might not have realised it as much,” Barker said.

“Tonight gave me that positive feeling that he can do a bit of work, two 27 quarters to run home in and he was three wide and I really like the way he hit the line and kept fighting all the way to the end.”

Alipate Bryant and Brian Lake kicked three goals each for the Lakers in the win.

Bryant was named their best, with Beau O’Connell and Billy Crofts.

The Lakers sit in fourth spot a game behind Altona in third. Spotswood sits four points behind the Lakers.

The Lakers are this week on the road against second placed Point Cook.

The Bulldogs are coming off a loss to Altona.

The Vikings started the better of the two teams and led by 24 points at quarter time. That head start would be the difference in the end.

Themarginstayedsteadyinthemiddle two quarters before the Bulldogs kicked four goals to one in the final quarter to get back into the game.

It was too late with the Vikings winning, 9.6 (60)-7.9 (51).

In other results, Werribee Districts remain unbeaten after accounting for Point Cook Centrals, 13.13 (91)-6.6 (42).

Spotswood had to work hard against Hoppers Crossing to come away with the point.

The Woodsmen led by 20 points at quarter time before the margin was reduced to about a goal at half time and three-quarter time.

Two goals to one in the final quarter sealed the win for the Woodsmen, 12.13 (85)-10.11 (71).

Jordan Kight (Ljubica Vrankovic) 338083_03

Roarforroscoe (Stuart McCormick)