Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 25th July 2023

Westies show off artsy side

Sally Walshe has launched her community art exhibition, ShowYour WEST-SIDE, featuring a collection of work from local artists.

Walshe, who is also known as ‘LaDY MoHaWK’ compiled more than 210 artworks from westies of all skill levels, including kids. Westies Elzette Bester from Brimbank, Yoonjung Kim from Footscray and Johanna Reveka Hurtado said the exhibition was a great idea.

Bester was “chuffed” to be involved. “I have lived in the western suburbs for a long time, so it was a wonderful opportunity to get people talking and getting to know each other.”

Kim’s piece, ‘Supreme ribbon and Australian animals’, reflects her relaxed state of mind which changed when she moved to the west. Hurtado has lived in the west for about a year after migrating from Venezuela. Her piece takes the form of letters which she sent out to her neighbours for them to express their best memories of living in the neighbourhood.

The exhibition will run until August 11, at the Footscray Connectivity Centre.

Reforms ‘little and late’

By Hannah Hammoud

Reforms for stronger gambling harm protections in Victoria have been welcomed by Brimbank, but council is continuing to push for further changes.

Brimbank has the highest losses to electronic gaming machines of any Victorian localgovernmentarea(LGA),recordinglosses of $128 million in 2021-22.

The state government announced sweeping reforms on July 16, designed to prevent gambling harm and anti-money laundering with the changes expected to be in place by the end of the year.

Thechangeswillintroducepre-commitment limits and mandatory carded play, as well as reducing load-up limits to $100, down from $1000.

It will also be mandatory for all new electronic gaming machines to be slowed down to a spin rate of three seconds a game.

All venues in Brimbank with poker machines will be required to close gaming areas between 4am and 10am.

Councillor Virginia Tachos said while she welcomedthelong-awaitedreforms,theywere simply not enough, with fears that funding for the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation (VRGF) would be cut.

“The LGA of Brimbank has haemorrhage gambling losses and remains to be the highest losers in gambling losses and the second most disadvantaged with the greatest losses recorded for the last decade,” she said.

“…Whilstthesereformslookreallypositive on paper, the government is not actually saying whether they are going to continue funding the VRGF beyond 2023.”

Council said while the reforms will go a longwaytominimisingthedetrimentalsocial and economic impacts of gambling, there are a number of additional reforms that would contribute to further harm reduction.

Council is urging the state government to

consider extending the reforms to include 12am closing, a lower daily EFTPOS withdrawallimitof$200,decreasedmaximum bets of $1 per spin, and the introduction of a ‘sinking cap’, where gaming machines are not replaced once entitlements have been forfeited.

Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire said the community has been talking about the harms and damage caused by gambling for a long time.

“My thoughts are with everyone who has an experience of gambling harm, and we should acknowledge that these reforms have been a long time coming,” he said.

Sally Walshe with Johanna Reveka Hurtado, Yoonjung Kim and Elzette Bester at the Connectivity Centre. (Damjan Janevski) 345025_01

Kinder review for Brimbank

Brimbank launches “Together Yes” campaign supporting the proposed Voice to Parliament

Brimbank Council is encouraging community members and staff to learn more about the Voice to Parliament ahead of this year’s referendum to enshrine a First Nations Voice in the Australian Constitution. Earlier this year, Council signed the Mayors for the Voice to Parliament Public statement, noting support for the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the upcoming referendum on the Voice to Parliament.

As part of this commitment, over the next few months, we will actively promote information to the Brimbank community and Council staff to build understanding and promote a ‘yes’ vote in the referendum.

Council recognises there are different views within the community, and is encouraging residents to have respectful conversations.

The Brimbank Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Consultative Committee (BATSICC) has advised Council in this work, and continues to support Brimbank’s Reconciliation journey.

For more information visit: Brimbank’s support brimbank.vic.gov.au/YES

Uluru Statement of the Heart ulurustatement.org/the-statement/

The Voice to Parliament voice.gov.au

Resources for holding a Kitchen Table conversation togetheryes.com.au/

Brimbank council will undertake a review of its current kindergarten registration and enrolment policy to make it easier for families to access kindergartens that are nearest to them.

In a notice of motion raised by councillor Virginia Tachos, community concerns were raised regarding families being unable to find kindergarten places for their children close to their homes.

“Inonecase,mothersreturningtoworksaid they would need to drive up to 40 minutes in the morning traffic to get to a kindergarten,” Cr Tachos said.

The review will consider including an additional criteria prior to the 2025 kindergarten allocation process which would require families to detail their proximity to their preferred kindergarten.

Currently, Brimbank’s kindergarten registration policy does not include proximity as a criteria for priority access. However, the state government’s priority of access criteria allows for locally agreed criteria to be

implemented to prioritise and determine the order of offers made.

Cr Tachos said that for a lot of families, it is important to send their children to local kindergartens as it builds a sense of community for them. She cited the Keilor area in particular, where concerns have been raised.

Keilor resident Lucia Mangion said she welcomed the decision for council to undertake the review.

“Zoningisgreat,kinderkidsaremorelikely to know someone when they start school as schools are generally zoned,” she said.

“It also helps build a place of belonging and a sense of community. It eliminates unnecessary traffic and encourages a healthy lifestyle with less car time and more options to bike or walk.”

Cr Tachos said the state government’s announcement of free, three-year-old kindergarten, whilst positive, has also created a huge demand in some areas with a very limited pool of places.

Sunshine Energy Park information sessions

Learn more about the Draft Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan at an in-person information session. Come along on Monday 7 August 11.30am-1.30pm, or Wednesday 9 August, 5-7pm. Both sessions will be held at Brimbank Community and Civic Centre, Level 6, 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine. Email your name and phone number before 31 July to urbandesignteam@ brimbank.vic.gov.au with the subject “SEP RSVP” and tell us which session you will be attending.

Contact us: Telephone 9249 4000

Support the future of your Neighbourhood Houses and Community Centres

Tell us how your local neighbourhood house and community centre can support your health and wellbeing in a meaningful way.

Share your ideas at one of our online or in-person sessions from July to October Visit bimbank.vic.gov.au/events to learn more about sessions near you.

Workshops for local businesses

We’re running workshops for small businesses in August to help enhance their online marketing skills. Visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/events to learn more. A $20 registration fee is required for all workshops.

brimbank.vic.gov.au 131 450 Local call costs apply

Call to join the club

Use Brimby,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tullamarine charity Uncle Bobs Club (UBC) is calling out for new volunteers to join the board of directors and support its mission to help benefit the lives of children with medical needs.

The charity has been operating since 1942, when four men decided to raise money for the children’s hospital year round.

UBC fundraising and volunteer manager Stacey Ramadge said the team is looking to add some fresh faces who have a passion to improve the lives of sick children.

“We are a very tight knit family bunch of volunteers who are all working to help sick children,” she said.

“Many in our team have all had a reason to use the children’s hospital or a paediatric wing at any hospital in Victoria. Some have had their own experience with an ill child or know

someone else who has.”

The position is a 12- month term, beginning in October of each year and consists of monthly meetings which can be attended online, as well as some involvement in fundraising activities and events throughout the year.

With a volunteer database of 400 people, UBC is particularly seeking help from those with experience in fundraising, marketing, financial management or accounting, but is happy to upskill anyone who may not have that type of background.

Those interested in volunteering should email their CV along with a brief outline of their interest to stpresident@ubcvic.org.au by August 1.

Hannah Hammoud

Uncle Bobs Club team members Steve Bates, Debbie Botha and Stacey Ramadge are looking for volunteers to join the board of directors. (Hannah Hammoud)

Support for community forums

By Hannah Hammoud

Brimbank residents may soon be able to ask live, unscripted questions of council, with a proposal to establish a regular public forum meeting for the community endorsed by council.

Councillor Maria Kerr raised the idea as a notice of motion during a council meeting on July 18, and received the support of her fellow councillors.

CrKerrsaidthereiscurrentlynomechanism

which allows residents to directly engage with their council representatives.

“The only avenue they have is to submit questions prior to council meetings, which are drafted by officers for the mayor to read out of a script,” she said. “Residents are frustrated, they feel disconnected from councillors and just want honest answers. “Residents just want to be heard, they want transparency and respect.Scriptedanswersdoesn’twashwiththe community any more …”

Cr Kerr cited the success of nearby Moonee

Uni honour for Lim

Melton entrepreneur Michael Lim has been recognised for his career success and ongoing commitment to social impact through the Rising Star Alumni Award from the University of Melbourne’s faculty of arts.

The Rising Star Award is presented to an individual aged 35 and under who has demonstrated an outstanding level of professional achievement, leadership, communityinvolvementandimpactasaglobal citizen since graduating from the University of Melbourne.

Mr Lim boasts a significant resume and at 28-years-old he said he’s just getting started.

“I have poured my heart and soul into making a difference in my community and am honoured to receive this award, he said.

Mr Lim was considered ‘at-risk’ in high school and placed in the NITOR program for disenfranchised youth, which he said set him on a new path.

Mr Lim was a youth ambassador for Brimbankcouncil,withwhomhisworkearned

him Brimbank Young Citizen of the Year in 2018, and he sits on multiple committees and advisory boards in the west.

Mr Lim has since been the chief executive of community health advancement and student engagement and has worked with local not-for-profits Western Chances, Future Connect and social enterprise YLab.

Mr Lim’s focus is as the founder and managing director of Beyond Value, a consultancy that helps organisations maximise their social impact in Melbourne’s west.

Mr Lim said young people in Melbourne’s west lack opportunities, not talent, and he wants to continue to work to create pathways that enable others like him to overcome disadvantages and transform their lives for the better.

“Icreditmysuccesstothesupport,education and mentoring I received from my family, the NITOR program and University of Melbourne – without them, I would not be where I am today,” he said.

Celebrating one year in west

Workforce Australia Services provider Melbourne Eastern Group Training (MEGT) has celebrated 12 months of operations in the western suburbs, revealing it has helped over 5000 jobseekers towards training or work in its first year.

More than 60 local employers joined training providers and MEGT staff to celebrate the milestone in Footscray, one of five office locations from which MEGT operates across the western suburbs, along with Sunshine, Altona, Melton and Werribee.

MEGT chief executive Matthew Hick said providing employment services to disadvantaged clients was at the core of the not-for-profit’s culture.

“MEGT first opened its’ doors in 1982 with a commitment to ensuring nobody is left behind in terms of accessing the workforce,” he said.

“The work which our dedicated staff here in the western suburbs have undertaken over the past 12 months is a huge source of pride to our

business, and a credit to the entire team.”

During the first year of providing employment services in Melbourne’s west, MEGT has helped place almost 2000 job seekers into employment, including more than 400 who’ve remained in work for at least six months.

MEGT employment services general manager Paul Bennett paid tribute to team members for meeting the challenge of helping disadvantaged Australians into work.

“More than a third of our clients have a disability and we’ve seen an increase in people experiencing homelessness which poses huge challenges while trying to find work,” he said.

“Our staff have a genuine care for, and commitment to, the people they are helping. It’s extremely satisfying to see the outcomes they continue to achieve every day.”

MEGT provides Workforce Australia services on behalf of the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.

Valleycouncil,whichhostsapublicforumonce a month and allows residents to raise questions directly to their representatives without notice.

The Moonee Valley council website states that the public forums take place in a less formal setting than council meetings and provide another opportunity for residents to play a role in civic matters.

“This is called transparency. This is called being open and accountable. This is called doing what we are paid to do by ratepayers,” Cr Kerr said. “ … Our community is asking

for this forum. Our community wants to see the white in our eyes when we are answering questions.”

Cr Kerr called on her colleagues to support the motion on behalf of “every resident” in Brimbank, and was met with a round of applause from residents seated in the public gallery.

A report will now be provided to council at a future meeting which will detail how regular public forums could be introduced for Brimbank.

Michael Lim.

Planning is underway for the Western Freeway Upgrade between Melton and Caroline Springs

We’re planning for a potential upgrade of the Western Freeway between Melton and Caroline Springs.

We’re seeking potential solutions to improve safety, freeway access and capacity to accommodate growing demand. To help inform our planning, roadside technical investigations will be undertaken from June 2023. At times during these investigations, we may need to implement traffic control measures. We’ll keep traffic disruption to a minimum and will avoid busy periods. A business case is currently being developed and is expected to be complete late 2024.

(Supplied)

MEGT staff celebrate the first anniversary of providing Workforce Australia Services in Melbourne’s western suburbs. (Supplied)

Heart health an issue

By Liam McNally

Recent mortality data highlights the need for hospitals in the west to start providing open heart surgery, according to Western Health cardiology head Dr Nick Cox.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) released its Mortality Over Regions and Time (MORT) books on July 11, which showed that between 2017 and 2021 the leading cause of death in Brimbank was coronary heart disease.

Heart disease made up 11.3 per cent of all deaths in the municipality.

Part of Dr Cox’s work is with the Western Health Chronic Disease Alliance (WHCDA), a group that researches and targets chronic diseases in the west.

Someofthediseasesthegrouptargetsinclude heart disease, kidney disease, and diabetes, all of which rank high on leading causes of death in Brimbank, and are diseases Dr Cox said often “run together”.

“The west suffers from much higher rates of these conditions than other parts of Victoria,” he said.

“Inparttotheresources,inparttothehigher incidence of smoking and lifestyle factors.

“Peopleinthewestareoftenbusy,focusedon their family, trying to get ahead economically, often they have come from overseas or didn’t start with all the same advantages … so they’re less likely to see a GP.”

Dr Cox said he is currently working with the Department of Health to assess the need for enabling hospitals in the west to provide open heart surgery.

“We have seen a fantastic increase in the amount of resources … [But] we’re really keen to see that service expand into the west so that patients can [be treated] closer to home and more rapidly,” he said.

“There’s a discrepancy between the east and the west …. We have a catchment of over a million people and have no service.”

Dr Cox said people concerned about their heart health should be aware of common

Helping hand for Living Museum of the West

Melbourne’s Living Museum of the West is one of more than 30 organisations in Fraser which has been awarded a volunteer grant.

For 39 years, Australia’s first eco-museum has been documenting, preserving and interpreting the stories and images of the people and places of the west.

Based in Pipemakers Park, the museum has a rich and unique archive of oral histories with audio recordings and transcriptions, videos, photographs, maps, and a unique library about the western region.

Fraser MP Dr Daniel Mulino said the grant to the Living Museum of the West was particularly poignant, given last year’s death ofPeterHaffenden,whodevotedasubstantial part of his working life to the museum.

“Under his stewardship, the museum recorded the stories of local women, workers, First Nations peoples and migrants,” he said.

“It also researched and championed a range of local environmental issues.

“The $3175 grant will enable the museum to upgrade its equipment to continue the digitisation of the museum’s archive and add to the museum’s database and website; to support volunteers deliver programs; and to pay for training courses for the museum’s volunteer guides so they can deliver engaging talks and tours.”

Mr Mulino said the volunteer grant program, which has handed out more than $66,000 to groups in the Fraser electorate, supported community organisations to keep providing their valuable services to local residents.

“It is important that we keep his legacy alive, and this funding will go some way to doing that,” he said.

Other organisations that received grants

Park naming process set

Brimbank council has endorsed the consultation process required to rename Sydenham Park, which includes a shortlist of names to be put out for community consultation.

As part of ongoing works at Sydenham Park, the Keilor North reserve will be renamed to an Indigenous title through a Wurundjeri defined process.

Council will present a shortlist of Woi-Wurrung names for community consultation from November this year, seeking feedback on the renaming proposal.

The renaming process will engage firstlywiththeWurundjeriWoi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation as the Traditional Owners andtheBrimbankAboriginalandTorres Strait Islander Committee (BATSICC). SpeakingatthecouncilmeetingonJuly 18, councillor Virginia Tachos said she is looking forward to council receiving the shortlist of Indigenous names which reflect the unique significance and history of the site.

“I don’t believe [the name] Sydenham Park really reflects accurately the spiritual significance of the area. I think this is a very appropriate process to give it some meaning and significance,” she said.

Melbourne’s Living Museum of the West was one of 30 Fraser organisations to receive a volunteer grant. (Supplied)

included sports clubs to help pay for First Aid courses, senior citizens groups and neighbourhood houses, which provide community lunches to keep citizens connected, and youth groups.

Jennifer Pittorino

risk factors including smoking, high blood pressure, family history, obesity, poor diet, and consider a heart age check on the Heart Foundation website, a heart health check from their GP, and learning your cholesterol level.

Council will consider and endorse a final name for the site in February, 2024. On completion of the naming process, the selected name will be shared with Traditional Owners who will again be consulted in 2024 to plan an event to celebrate the re-naming of the site.

Dr Nick Cox. (Damjan Janevski) 47125_01

Tackling the infrastructure lag

As Victoria battles with a housing crisis, some outer Melbourne suburbs and regional areas are experiencing a surge in new residents. However, with infrastructure lagging, these areas are struggling to keep up with the push into the north-west.

Zoe Moffatt chats to an urban planning expert and residents to find out how this narrative can be flipped.

In the rapidly growing suburb of Diggers Rest, residents are banding together to address community concerns about infrastructure and services shortfalls.

The suburb is part of the Melton local government area (LGA) – the fastest growing area in the country, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics data released in April – and the Hume LGA which is the fifth fastest-growing area in Melbourne.

According to Forecast.id, Diggers Rest’s population was about 5299 residents in 2021, and this is expected to increase to about 10,665 by 2036.

Yet, residents say they are living without access to important infrastructure and services.

John Verdon is a member of the residents’ advocacygroupDream,whichwaslaunchedin September 2022, and has lived in Diggers Rest for eight years.

He says the delay in infrastructure has impacted the town and its residents.

“A [lack] of infrastructure means we are reliant on two cars,” Mr Verdon says.

“It’snotsomethingthatisinsurmountableto me because we have two cars.

“It’s the delay in the infrastructure that is the issue … There’s no opportunity for us to get to certain places by bike because the infrastructure hasn’t been built.”

Mr Verdon is concerned the infrastructure will not be able to keep up with this projected growth.

“My concern is for a master plan suburb, the infrastructure is not keeping up with the population or demand,” he says .

“The objectives set out by the government for 15 minute cities are not being met [and] as a result the economic and environmental benefits of these 15-minute planned cities are not being fulfilled.

“[For example] we desperately need our community centre in Diggers Rest … it’s causing a lack of community cohesion as there’s no meeting spot.

“When you are building a new community … it’s really important that you have those spaces where the town can come together.”

The residents of Diggers Rest are not alone.

Melbourne university planning expert Alan Marchsaysthereisatraditionofinfrastructure lag in Australia.

ProfessorMarchhaswontheglobalplanning education ‘best planning paper’ twice, and specalises in the ways planning systems can manage change and transition with differing circumstances.

He is passionate about urban planning and donates his time to explain the current growth landscape, and why it must focus on the projected needs of areas.

“It’s typical in the current system to only really have the road systems, power, gas and sewerage in place,” Professor March says .

“Other infrastructure, particularly public transport, health services, schools, typically lags and that’s because it’s often put in place in a demand approach rather than projected needs approach.

“Thismeansmanypeoplelivewithoutpretty fundamental services when they first move into a new area.”

Professor March says the most concerning aspect is the delay in government services.

“These things can be health care, public transport, parks, gardens, sports fields, and education services,” he says.

“This may well mean that many families or indeed other people who live in these areas –forlongperiods[and]perhapswhenthey’rethe most vulnerable – are without fundamental services within easy reach.”

Professor March says this increases a reliance on cars and is exacerbated when there is limited public transport.

“We do know that very high rates of mortgage stress are felt in new areas, such as the north-west.

“We see people spending very long periods of time commuting, or perhaps even just being isolated because they don’t have access to a car.

“It is one of the fastest growing areas, [and] it does have a lot of the problems we typically see associated with growth areas, such as existing roads [and] structures being woefully inadequate, and very limited public transport options.

“It kind of puts people between a rock and a hard place because they know they can’t afford anywhere else.

“They struggle to get to all the things they need: work, school and health care and childcare. Also the quality of life goes down.”

The Macedon Ranges township of Romsey is expected to record a growth in population similartoDiggersRest,withthetownexpected to reach between 6000 to 10,000 residents by 2036.

This is about double the town’s estimated resident population of about 4256 residents in June 2022, according to Forecast.id.

Romsey resident Kevin Fothergill agrees there has been an infrastructure lag in the town, and it can be felt in public transport and community facilities.

“I think there has been a lag, [and] a concept of build [first] and then the facilities come,” Mr Fothergill says.

“The buses aren’t too bad but there are huge gaps … [especially in] connecting the bus to Clarkfield station, which is the nearest V/Line station.

“The majority [of commuters] would park their cars there all day, which means you need to be a two car family.

“WehavetwocarsandIonlyworkpart-time, but I do drive to Clarkfield station, as it’s too risky to get the bus.

“It is a real concern right throughout the community, the idea of two cars is quite a financial imposition.”

Mr Fothergill says there are also a number of vacant shops which concerns him as the population continues to grow.

“The way the town is being expanded is a concern and the feeling here of being isolated is pretty rife,” he says.

“There’s already quite a number of buildings that are vacant … The hotel used to have a bistro and was a meeting point for a lot of families [but that is now shut].”

Professor March said the sequence of developmentneedstochangeinorderforthese issues to improve, but it is not down to one provider.

“The way we deliver new developments has not really changed too much … We’re still not really sequencing the process particularly well,” he says.

“It must be acknowledged that there are a lot of different players in this, lots of different government agencies and services [and] the private sector has a huge part of this as well.”

‘‘ My concern is for a master plan suburb the infrastructure is not keeping up with the population or demand ’’

- John Verdon

Diggers Rest advocacy group members Michael Gooding, Jade McTavish, Kathy Skinner, Laura Prendergast, Tanya Harding and John Verdon. (Damjan Janevski) 339349_01

Romsey resident Kevin Fothergill said the idea of two cars is quite a financial imposition. (Zoe Moffatt) 348320_02

Dine-in or enjoy takeaway from Sunshine Social. (Pictures: Supplied)

Dine-in or take-away at Sunshine Social

only, Table of up to 10 guests. Valid to September 1, 2023)

Specials galore at Silos

The new Silos Bistro at the Sunshine City Club is open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and Tuesday to Saturday for dinner

Grab a lunch special Tuesday to Friday for just $14.

Pasta night is on Tuesday, from 5.30pm – 8.30pm, for just $16.

Parma night is on Thursday, from

5.30pm– 8.30pm, for just $17.

Great food and great prices, with a new menu on the way.

Thefunctionroomisavailableandcaters for up to 50 guests with a connecting beer garden and bowling green.

You can also catch a live band from 8.30pm every Saturday.

Silos Bistro offers a variety of menu options. (Pictures: Supplied)

Demand sees property prices up

By Hannah Hammoud

The property markets in Keilor Lodge and Sunshine West are thriving, with the median house prices increasing by more than 11 per cent in the last quarter according to new data.

Real Estate Institute of Victoria data for the June quarter shows the median house price in Keilor Lodge is $976,000 and in Sunshine West it’s $722,500.

Both suburbs experienced an increase of

11.5 per cent.

Ray White Sunshine director Marus Fregonesesaidtherehasbeengoodcompetition for quality homes due to a lack of stock.

“The market slowed over late last year and early into this year, which made owners and vendors hold off from selling. This resulted in a shortage of stock available which drove prices up,” he said.

Mr Fregonese said Sunshine West offers value for money, with large blocks of land and

solid family homes alongside great access to transport, freeways and schools.

Mr Fregonese said stock levels are expected toriseoverspring,givingbuyersmorechances to purchase property.

“There will be plenty of opportunities for buyers who have been waiting due to a lack of stock as listings will increase,” he said.

Across Brimbank, the real estate markets were a mixed bag, with a number of suburbs recording increases, while the median house

Support for students with disabilities

Funding is being rolled out six months earlier across multiple schools in Brimbank to help support students with disabilities and additional needs.

St Albans Primary School principal Joanne Richmond said the school will receive an early allocation of an extra $80,000 as part of the state government’s disability inclusion package.

Ms Richmond said the package is a major reform as it talks about disability inclusion for all students, not just those with specific disabilities.

“It is going to cast a wider net for children who need additional support for their learning,” she said.

“This funding will allow us to see what programs and supports we can put in place for students, whether it be increasing our allocation for our allied health support, or looking at getting extra staff at our school.”

“Our school will have meetings with families and ask a range of questions to see what adjustments we can put in place to help support our students’ education.”

Funding was allocated six months ahead of schedule in response to feedback from schools who said the early release of funding will enable them to better train and hire staff ahead of the new school year in 2024.

The disability inclusion reform package is being introduced over a staged rollout between 2021 to 2025 as a new funding and support model for students with disability, with the policy currently applying to specific areas, including schools in Brimbank.

Hannah Hammoud

price fell in other suburbs.

InCarolineSprings,themedianhouseprice roseby9.4percentinthelastquarter,withthe median house price now $755,000.

Deer Park also recorded a median sale price of $660,000 with a 7.3 per cent increase.

The median price fell by 4.8 per cent in Deanside ($636,000), 3.6 per cent in Kings Park ($593,000), 3.5 per cent in Keilor Downs ($762,000), and 2.6 per cent in Keilor ($955,000).

Strengthening cultural ties at an early age

Brimbank council has endorsed the idea to roll-out a Vietnamese bilingual kindergarten program to boost the learning benefits for local children.

Councillor Thuy Dang raised the notice of motion at a council meeting on July 18, which involved council identifying suitable kindergartens to implement the program.

Cr Dang’s motion follows on from the state government’s recent announcement inviting early childhood services to apply for funding to deliver a bilingual kindergarten program from term one next year.

Cr Dang said council will proactively work with kindergarten service providers to make them aware of the opportunity to submit an expression of interest to the Department of Education for funding to implement the program.

Cr Dang said kindergartens in Brimbank have 348 students registered where their parents’ primary language is Vietnamese and 362 students registered where their primary carer was born in Vietnam.

“We are living in a diverse community where we promote cultural pride and our diversity, so I believe we understand well how important it is for the children to know their mother tongue,” she said.

All early childhood services joining the bilingual kinder initiative will be supported to recruit a qualified language teacher if they do not already have one within their staff.

Safety concerns, with police on patrol at council meetings

Brimbank residents may continue to see a police presence at future council meetings as council seeks to stamp out disruptive behaviour.

Police were present at the most recent council meeting on July 18, in what council described as a “precautionary measure” given recent behaviour which disrupted the June 20 council meeting.

That meeting was adjourned for 15 minutes to allow security to escort residents out of the chamber after residents continued to shout over the meeting.

As councillors considered the draft Brimbank LGBTQIA+ Action Plan, residents shouted words of “grooming”, “evil” and “paedophiles” across the chamber.

On multiple occasions, Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire asked members seated in the gallery to remain quiet before security was eventually called for.

Cr Lancashire said council will continue to work closely with police and put in place measures to ensure the safety of everyone attending council meetings.

“We welcome community attendance in

the public gallery at council meetings and kindly remind and expect members of the public to observe council’s meeting protocols and to behave respectfully at all times,” he said.

“Councillors and council officers have a right to be safe and treated with respect and council will not tolerate any behaviour that threatens the safety of anyone present in the chamber, or which disrupts the ability of council to conduct its business on behalf of the community.”

In a series of tweets posted by Brimbank

council on July 19, residents were reminded not to engage with councillors or council officers during the course of the meeting.

“Any inappropriate, disruptive, or rude behaviour will not be tolerated, and individuals may be asked to leave. Ensuring the safety and uninterrupted proceedings is paramount in fulfilling our responsibilities to the community,” read one of the tweets. The next council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 15.

Hannah Hammoud

St Albans preps Muhammad and Chloe. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 348295_06

Briefs

Nine charged

Police have charged nine people and seized drugs, firearms, swords, luxury handbags and over $750,000 in cash following an investigation into alleged drug trafficking involving multiple locations in Brimbank. The investigation commenced in September 2022 and police allege the syndicate had been trafficking large commercial quantities of methylamphetamine and heroin across Melbourne.

Police investigate stabbing

Native nursery springs up

A glorious patch of Australian bush has been re-created in the grounds of Braybrook’s Dinjerra Primary School.

The garden was designed by school council president Kylie Kirk and vice president Karlee Griffiths.

Neither Kylie or Karlee, known affectionately around the school as the Special Ks, had any experience in garden design but worked tirelessly for months to build the space.

The pair said that apart from the kangaroo paw plants from Western Australia, all the plants in the native garden were indigenous to the area

“We are hopeful that all the plants have survived the wet weather and will bloom in spring,” Kylie said.

“Thegardenissocolourfulthatthechildren are just drawn to the plants. We have to keep reminding them they can look but not touch.”

Theprimaryschoolreceiveda$10,000grant as part of the ‘Planting Trees for The Queen’s Jubilee’ program which encourages groups to plant regionally-appropriate species that enhance the tree canopy.

The native garden features hop bush, Australian indigo, billy buttons, grevilleas and callistemons which all blend to create a red, orange and yellow colour theme.

Three teenagers have been arrested following an altercation at Watergardens Shopping Centre in Taylors Lakes on July 19. Three youths who were injured during the incident, received what police believe to be nonlife-threatening stab wounds, following the altercation between a group of youths just after 5pm. The trio were arrested after police received reports of a suspicious vehicle in Hillside about 6pm. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with any information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit Crime Stoppers at www.crimestoppersvic. com.au

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

Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Mandy Clark

Dinjerra Primary School principal Natalie Vulic, Kylie Kirk, Karlee Griffiths, and Fraser MP Dr Daniel Mulino. (Supplied)

Drop in to Kororoit Creek Neighbourhood House

Kororoit Creek Neighbourhood House is inviting the community to attend the ‘Craft in Company’ activity which is now running twice a week.

Locals are welcome to attend the evening sessions that run on Monday, from 6-9pm, or the morning sessions on Thursday, from 9.30am-12.30pm.

The neighbourhood house at 61a Selwyn

Street, Albion, is open to the community to stop by and let their creativity flow.

All crafts and abilities are welcome, just bring along your current work to the next session and sit in the company of other locals.

StarWeeklyphotographerLjubicaVrankovic paid a visit to the Thursday morning session on July 20, to capture the fun.

Marijke, Margaret, Jodie, and Jerusha enjoy the craft morning. (Pictures: Ljubica Vrankovic) 346756

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

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

Senior citizens AGM

The Senior Citizens of Deer Park are holding their annual general meeting on August 14 at 1pm at the club rooms at 119 Station Road, Deer Park. The meeting is to elect the new committee and for general business.

■ 9693 7326

Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan

Brimbank council is hosting the first information session for the Sunshine Energy Park Vision Plan on August 7, from 11.30am-1.30pm, at the Brimbank Community and Civic Centre. Registration is required.

■ https://yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ sunshine-energy-park

National Tree Day

Celebrate National Tree Day in Brimbank at the Calder Rise Neighbourhood Park in Keilor on July 30, from 10am-1pm. Brimbank council is inviting the community to bring along a water bottle and a pair of gloves with a morning of planting and family-friendly activities.

■ https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/events/ national-tree-day

Follow your organics tour

Brimbank council is inviting the community to find out what happens to garden waste and food scraps once it is collected by participating in an education tour of Veolia’s state of the art organics recovery facility. The tour will depart from the Brimbank Community Civic Centre, 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine, at 10am and will return by 1pm.

■ https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ follow-your-organic-waste-tour-tickets637671381267?aff=oddtdtcreator

Be Bold Blakout art exhibition

Brimbank council has partnered with Aunty Jean Mason and Jinkigi Consultancy to engage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Artists and Youth that work and live in the Brimbank area. The exhibition is free and will be on until September 6 at the Brimbank Community and Civic Centre.

■ https://creativebrimbank.com.au/be-boldblakout-exhibition

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

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

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

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

Keilor Day View Club

The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place,Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies.

■ Robyn, 0425 387 880

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

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

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

westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Thomas, 7, at the free interactive program, Chromatica in Werribee. (Damjan Janevski) 347581_01

PUZZLES

No. 143

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 Of the finest type or standard (7)

5 Destructive insects (7)

9 Able to be maintained consistently (11)

10 Hair product (3)

11 Country (6)

12 My friend (Fr) (3,4)

14 Regulation (4)

15 Timber tree (10)

17 Extremely greedy (10)

19 Poke (4)

20 Inhabitant of Malta (7)

22 Forces out (6)

25 Harass (3)

26 Unfortunate (11)

28 Drink made with wine, fruit and brandy (7)

29 Dressage movement (7)

No. 143

DOWN

1 Throw (4)

2 Nation continent (9)

3 Graduated measure (5)

4 Following each other (11)

5 Room for scientific experiments (abb) (3)

6 Neatly (7)

7 Happiness in Hindi (5)

8 Round of beef (10)

12 Dimension (11)

given to

DECODER WORDFIT

No. 143

3 LETTERS AGE AMP APE APT BAN EAT EEL GEL

9-LETTER WORD

Today’s Aim:

12 words: Good

18 words: Very good

25 words: Excellent

O R S

C A E

N E

U

D N G N A

aloud, annul, annuli, audio, auld, dual, dung, dunlin, gluon, guano, guild, languid, laud, lauding, lingua, loud, lung, noun, ulan, ulna, undo, undoing, union, unload, UNLOADING

No. 143

T S Y F A T A L A R O S E C E A S E E N D E R T A S T Y

QUICK QUIZ

1 Was Gloomhaven originally a board game, a video game or a film?

2 AgainsttheLovelessWorld is a 2019 novel by which author?

3 In terms of printing, what does CMYK stand for?

4 The Nintendo Switch was released on March 3 of which year?

5 Tenet is a 2020 film by which British-American film director?

6 Which of the following is not a fruit: tomato, eggplant, potato or pumpkin?

7 What main two materials make

up the Pyramid of Giza?

8 Amanda Collin (pictured) stars as Mother in which 2020 sci-fi series?

9 The period during the Dutch Golden Age in which tulip bulb prices skyrocketed and then dramatically collapsed is called what?

10 Turquoise is a birth stone for which month?

IMP MOW NOT NUT OUR OVA PEG PEP ROB RYE SEC SEE SHY TNT TOE WHO 4 LETTERS ARCH ARTS DRIP DYES ECHO INTO KEEN PASS SACS SEES SLED SUMS TREE TWOS 5 LETTERS ADOBE AGILE ALONE APTER ATONE AWAIT BITES CHINA COAST COOKS CREPT CROON ERODE HONEY HONKS HOVER IDEAL IMAGE MANIA MARTS NANAS NERVE OBESE OGLES PACTS PASTA POUCH PRAYS PROBE ROGUE RUDER SASSY SEDAN SEEDY SENSE SHINE SITES SLATE SMASH SONGS STOOD STORE THANK TREAD TREND TRUED TWICE UNITE WAITS WASN’T 6 LETTERS APPEND CREEPY PENDED WASTED 7 LETTERS CERTAIN COASTED COMPILE EARLIER EVASION TORPEDO 8 LETTERS ALLERGIC ROMANTIC THROWING THWARTED 12 345678910111213 1415 1617181920212223242526 U G V N X T J O Q E R L M I W Y C D B A K F Z H S P 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 28-07-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com 587419236 613548729 168254397 321765948 754921683 275193864 946832175 892376451 439687512 easy medium hard 836149257 314572869 421657983 142765398 987316524 793428615 579283146 265894731 658931472 759213468 573692841 185436927 461978235 614857392 237189654 328564719 892341576 946725183 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 HP ANSWERS: 1. Board game 2. Susan Abulhawa 3. Cyan, magenta, yellow, key 4. 2017 5. Christopher Nolan 6. Potato 7. Limestone and granite 8. WolvesbyRaised 9. Tulip mania 10. December

No. 143

Sadie Black Cafe Albion

Sunshine City Club Albion

Coles Supermarket Braybrook

Central West Shopping Centre Braybrook

Braybrook Hotel Braybrook

Braybrook Community Centre Braybrook

Braybrook News & Lotto Braybrook

Burnside Hub Shopping Centre Burnside

Burnside News and Lotto Burnside

Milkbar Burnside Heights

Cairnlea Town Centre Cairnlea

The Club Caroline Springs

Caroline Springs Civic Centre/Library Caroline Springs

CS Square Centre Caroline Springs

Smart Smile Dental Deer Park

Deer Park Club Deer Park

Community Neighbourhood Centre Deer Park

Foodworks Deer Park

Cellarbrations Liquor Store Deer Park

Australia Post Deer Park

Deer Park IGA Deer Park

Brimbank Shopping Centre Deer Park

Derrimut Village Shopping Centre Deer Park

Coles Supermarket Deer Park

Deer Park Library Deer Park

IGA Delahey Delahey

Delahey Community Centre Delahey

Sunshine Golf Club Derrimut

Wards Newsagency Footscray

Foodworks Hillside

Parkwood Green Community Centre Hillside

Hillside Neighbourhood House Hillside

Keilor Community Hub Keilor

Keilor Newsagent Keilor

Centro Shopping Centre Keilor Downs

Frank's Supermarket Keilor Park

Fergusson Plairre Bakehouse Keilor Park

Westvale Community Centre Kings Park

Melton Shire Offices Melton

St Albans Library St Albans

St Albans Senior Citizens St Albans

IGA St Albans St Albans

Sunshine Hospital St Albans

Joan Kirner Women's & Childrens Hospital St Albans

Club Italia Sporting Club St Albans

St Albans Newsagency St Albans

Brimbank Community Centre St Albans

St Albans Sports Club St Albans

Speedway Sunshine Petroleum Sunshine

The Youth Junction Sunshine

Brotherhood of St Laurence Sunshine

Sunshine RSL Sunshine

The Glengala Hotel Sunshine

Sunshine Library Sunshine

Brimbank City Council Sunshine

Sunshine Plaza Sunshine

Sunshine Marketplace Sunshine

Woolworths Supermarket Sunshine

North Sunshine Post, News and Lotto Sunshine North

Morgan's Super IGA Supermarket Sunshine West

Bottler Sunshine West Drive in Liquor Sunshine West

West Sunshine Community Centre Sunshine West

Coles Supermarket Sunshine West

Watervale Shopping Centre Taylors Hill

Taylors Lakes Lotto Taylors Lakes

Watergardens Hotel Taylors Lakes

Watergardens Shopping Centre Taylors Lakes

Centrelink Watergardens Taylors Lakes

•After

•

FOR A PLANNING PERMIT

The land affected by the application is located at: LOT(S): 568, 567 PLAN OF SUBDIVISION: 124359 ADDRESS: 1 WYPERFELD AVENUE TAYLORS LAKES, 3 WYPERFELD AVENUE TAYLORS LAKES

The application is for a permit to: USE AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE LAND FOR A MEDICAL CENTRE WITHIN A SPECIAL BUILDING OVERLAY, VARIATION OF RESTRICTION CONTAINED IN TRANSFER K256597 AS IT APPLIES TO VOLUME 09375 FOLIO 210 BY DELETING PARAGRAPHS (A) (B) & (E) AND CONSOLIDATION OF LAND

The applicant for the permit is: MIMAR DESIGN

The application reference number is: P471/2022

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at:

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

•WWW.BRIMBANK.VIC.GOV. AU/ADVERTISED-PLANS

•CONTACT CITY PLANNING ON 9249 4606 OR EMAIL info@brimbank.vic.gov.au,

The

The

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

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Australian F1 driver Daniel Ricciardo will race in which car for the remainder of the season?

2. Carlton’s win in Round 18 of the 2023 AFL season ended Port Adelaide’s winning streak of how many games?

3. And in that game, how many Carlton players kicked four goals each?

4. Which cricket player recently became the first Australian to have scored 6000 runs and taken 300 wickets in international cricket?

5. Who did Carlos Alcaraz Garfia beat in the 2023 Wimbledon semi-final?

6. When will the next Commonwealth Games be held?

The Kookaburras is the name of which Australian sporting team?

Who has captained the GWS Giants in the AFLW since 2019?

Mark William Calaway is the real name of which former professional wrestler?

How long is the Tour de France in kilometres?

How many rounds will be played in the upcoming AFLW season?

Which country is rising tennis star Carlos Alcaraz Garcia from?

How many teams will take part in the 2023 Netball World Cup?

14. Which Queensland player was awarded the Wally Lewis Medal in the 2023 State of Origin series?

15. What was the name of the short-lived professional rugby league team based in Adelaide in the 1990s?

16. Major League Cricket is a Twenty20 League based in which country?

17. Which Australian racehorse won an estimated $26 million in prize money during its career?

18. In which country was Australian cricketer Meg Lanning born?

19. Who is the current interim coach of the North Melbourne Kangaroos?

20. Which famous car race is held in the US every Memorial Day?

21. Which national team retained the Women’s Ashes in 2023?

22. Which recently retired Australian basketballer wore number 45 for the Dallas Mavericks between 2018 and 2020?

23. Mary Fowler scored a goal in the Matildas’ 1-0 July 14 win against which national soccer team?

24. 2023 Home Run Derby winner Vladimir Guerrero Jr. plays for which Major League Baseball team?

25. Which New York Liberty player won the 2023 WNBA All-Star 3-Point Contest?

26. Former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika now coaches which national rugby union team?

27. Which national team did the Matildas play in their first game of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup?

28. Champion mixed martial artist Alexander Volkanovski was born in which coastal NSW city?

29. Which Czech tennis professional won the 2023 Wimbledon women’s singles title?

30. And which Tunisian tennis professional did she defeat in the final?

Daniel Riccardo

Audi RS 6 ‘almost too much car’

By Chris Riley

Strewth! Audi’s RS 6 Avant is formidable. In fact, it’s almost too much car – correction, wagon.

It’s right up there in terms of the high-performance stuff that we’ve driven over the years and should not be underestimated.

Irememberdrivingitslittlebrother,theRS4

Avant, on the track at Sydney’s Eastern Creek, one hand on the wheel, drifting effortlessly around a left-hander.

It was an amazing experience and I can only imagine RS 6 would be even more rewarding driven flat out in an environment that can accommodate its performance potential.

Competitors include the BMW M5 and Mercedes-AMG E63 – but they cost more and don’t offer the practicality of a wagon. SUVs need not apply.

Styling

Sitting low to the ground, with pumped out guards and fat rubber, the look is understated, but you’d have to be Blind Freddy not to recognise this a vehicle that should be given a wide berth.

The wider single frame grille combines a black gloss finish with an RS-specific honeycomb structure, edged by arresting air inlets that sit below the standard HD Matrix headlights (with front and rear dynamic indicators).

Audi laser lighting technology further enhances the sophisticated lighting system by doubling the range of vision when travelling at speeds of more than 70km/h.

Distinctive 22-inch Audi Sport alloys are standard, with the striking red brake calipers and 285/30 series Hankook Ventus S1 Evo 3 rubber.

RS 6 Avant sits at the pointy end of the RS performance range, priced from $232,200 plus on-roads.

Its partner in crime, the RS 7 Sportback, which shares the same twin turbo V8 drivetrain, is another $8000.

It’s a lot but still considerably less than the S8thatwedroverecently(ourLottocar)which is a nosebleed $273,000 – and not as quick.

Several option packs are also available, including a sensory package, the carbon and black styling package and the RS Dynamic package plus (with ceramic brakes and raised 305 km/h speed limit).

Our test vehicle was fitted with the $2900 RS Design Package, with $1700 Inlays in carbon twill and $700 gloss black Audi rings and badges, bringing the total price to $237,500.

Exteriorhighlightsincludetheblackexterior styling package, panoramic glass sunroof and metallic paint.

Inside, the cabin is upholstered in Nappa leather, while the RS sport front seats are finished in Valcona leather and feature full electric adjustment, heating and lumbar support.

Comfort items include convenience key, electric tailgate, electric/heated/folding mirrors, privacy glass, power-assisted door closure and electric steering column adjustment.

A selection of eight exterior colours are available with the addition of a new crystal effect paint in Sebring black, as well as a striking matt effect paint finish via Audi exclusive.

RS 6 is covered by a 5-year warranty, 5-year roadside assistance, plus a 12-year manufacturer warranty against corrosion. Serviceintervalsare12monthsor15,000km.

Infotainment

Infotainment and connectivity is a strong point including MMI navigation plus with MMI touch response (dual touchscreens), Audi connect plus, Audi virtual cockpit, Audi smartphone interface with wireless Apple CarPlay.

There’s also wireless smartphone charging, 4x USB outlets located in the front and rear, DAB+ digital radio and a 705-watt Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system with 16 speakers.

Engines / transmissions

Motivation comes from a 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 that develops 441kW of power and a seriously impressive 800Nm of torque, the latter available across a wide band from 2050-4500 rpm.

Torque is distributed to all four wheels via a fast-shifting eight-speed Tiptronic-style transmission.

The V8 is underpinned by a 48-volt mild-hybrid electrical system that can recover up to 12kW of power while coasting or under light throttle.

The start/stop system also draws on the 48v system and functions at speeds up to 22 km/h, saving up to 0.8 litres of fuel per 100km. Additionally, cylinder on demand (COD) technology can shut down four cylinders under light throttle application, resuming within milliseconds when required.

Safety

The full suite of available Audi driver assistance systems is fitted as standard includingAdaptivecruiseassistwithStop&Go and traffic jam assist, active lane assist and 360-degree cameras with kerb view. Additionally, tyre pressure monitoring, an alarm and anti-theft wheel nuts with loose wheel detection provide peace-of-mind.

Driving

Have you seen the new Top Gun movie? Well, think of the RS 6 as top gun of the Audi go-fast range of vehicles.

The wagon, remember it’s a wagon, can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in a Ferrari-quick 3.6 seconds and on to 200km/h in just 12 seconds, with a top speed limited to 280km/h.

Under normal conditions, torque is distributed in a 40:60 bias to the rear wheels.

Up to 85 percent of torque can be directed to the rear wheels in special circumstances, when drifting for example.

A Quattro sport differential provides added control, able to direct almost all rear axle torque to either wheel in particularly dynamic driving.

The standard system comprises steel brakes, with red 10-piston calipers and 420mm front discs, with 370mm at the rear.

But Aussie delivered cars get the $19,500 RS Dynamic package as standard which includes larger 440mm ceramic brakes, with a choice of colour for the calipers (grey, red or blue).

For the first time, RS 6 and RS 7 also benefit fromall-wheelsteering,enhancingbothagility and stability, depending on the situation.

It sees the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels at low speeds, reducing the turning circle by up to a metre.

At higher speeds, they turn in the same direction as the front wheels to provide better handling and stability.

Adaptive air suspension is also fitted, with a greater range than before.

Dynamic Ride Control (DRC), which diagonally links the suspension hydraulically, is available as an option.

All of these dynamic systems, the Electronic Stabilisation Control (ESC) and the standard RS sports exhaust, are integrated through the Audi Drive Select system.

Two new drive modes – RS 1 and RS 2 – can

bequicklyaccessedandconfiguredforspecific high-performance settings.

It all adds up to a car, correction wagon, that is very quick – very quick indeed.

Pull the transmission lever back a second time to engage sport mode, punch the accelerator and the RS 6 bellows and rockets forward, quickly reaching 160 clicks in the blink of an eye.

Braking is just as quick to match.

Steering is sharp but could be more communicative while grip and handling are excellent, but better suited to wider free flowing roads than tight, twisting mountain trysts.

You get all this with a ride that is super smooth, given the liquorice strip tyres, even on our shocking secondary roads.

While performance is brutal, the emphasis is clearly on refinement.

The sports seats are large and comfy, with generous rear legroom. Although there’s room for a third passenger in the back, it’s really set up to accommodate two.

Luggage capacity is 565 litres, or 1680 litres with the rear seats folded.

One blot in an otherwise blemish free copybook though. Because of the low ride height and aerodynamic embellishments, driveways should be approached with extreme caution. If in doubt, park it on the street.

With a 73-litre tank it drinks the good stuff, 98-strength premium unleaded.

Rated at 11.7L/100km, we were getting 14.1L/100km after close to 400km of driving.

Summing up

It’s difficult not to remain unimpressed by the RS 6. It’s an amazing looking thing with gob-smacking levels of performance. Dare I say, it’s almost too much car.

Thank god for modern day electronics whichwillstopmugdriversfromputtingtheir cars in a ditch.

Super fast and super expensive, the Audi RS 6 Avant is a formidable car ... correction wagon.(Pictures: Supplied)

Note: This price does not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Audi dealer for drive-away prices.

Audi RS 6 Avant, 4.0L twin turbo V8 petrol, 48V mild hybrid, automatic, AWD

Bears facing a tough run home

Burnside Heights’ season is still alive, just, in the Essendon District Football League division 2.

The Bears sit two games outside the top four midwaythroughthesplitround,theBearsneed everything to go right in the last four weeks to to play finals.

Bears coach Cole Harvey said it was pretty excitingtohavesomanyteamsstillaliveatthis time of the season.

The Sunbury Kangaroos also sit two games outside the top four, with not much percentage separating the two teams.

“I was speaking to Shanon [Carroll, Sunbury Kangaroos coach] and we were saying we both still have a heartbeat,” Harvey said. “It’s pretty exciting run into finals for all sides.”

The Bears returned to the winners list in their most recent match, beating East Sunbury, before a bye on Saturday. Harvey said it was

a much- needed win having dropped their previous four matches.

He said East Sunbury had shown improvement in patches, but every other club had taken steps as well.

The Bears, like many others in the competition, have gone with youth, which Harvey said was exciting for the competition. He highlighted the strong under-18s coming out of Hadfield and what Coburg Districts had been doing too.

Harvey said he wasn’t sure whether the bye hadcomeattherighttime,withmomentuman important thing in football.

Hesaiditwouldgivesomeplayerswithsome sore bodies the opportunity to have a break.

In his first season as coach, Harvey said he was thrilled with the progress the group had made. “I’m very happy with how things are going,” he said.

“Our biggest losing margin is 23 points, the first time we played Taylors Lakes. We lost to Sunbury Kangaroos by 10, Coburg Districts by eight and Taylors Lakes by 17 the second time.

“We are thereabouts. We’ve made some good games already this year.”

The Bears this week face Hadfield on Saturday. Harvey knows they have a tough run home, but said it would be exciting to possibly seetheraceforfinalsgorightdowntothewire.

“WehaveHadfield,OakPark(first),Sunbury Kangaroos (sixth) and Coburg Districts (fourth),” he said.

“Coburg has a great win on the weekend and it will be a really interesting last month.

“It could come down to the last two to three matches, It’s really exciting for the competition.”

Penha joins Western United

Western United has signed talented and exhilarating playmaker Daniel Penha for the upcoming A-League Men’s season.

The dynamic 24-year-old addition to United is set to bring an exciting blend of skill and pace to the squad, with his signature highly sought after by several other A-League clubs.

Penha heads to United on a one-year deal, where he will come on loan from BraziliangiantsandparentclubAtletico Mineiro after departing Daegu FC last season, where he made 11 appearances for the Korean outfit.

In 2021-22 Penha was a dominant forceintheA-Leagueplaying23matches for the Newcastle Jets and lighting up the league with his exceptional ability and flair.

United football general manager Mal Impiombato believes the acquisition of Penha exemplifies United’s energetic and forward-thinking approach for the upcoming season.

“We have maintained contact with Daniel and monitored his progress since departing the A-League in 2021-22,” he said.

“We are well aware of Penha’s immense potential and actively pursued his signature to reinforce the squad ahead of our 23-24 campaign.

Thunder plays up positives

By Tara Murray

You have to look a little deeper than ladder position when judging Keilor Thunder’s National Basketball League 1 South women’s season.

TheThunderfinishedtheseasonin17thspot with just five wins, but it was an important first step for the future of the program.

Coach Trevor Burnette said he thought the season had been successful.

“I think if we were judging the season on wins and losses, it doesn’t look super successful,” he said.

“The amount of growth we’ve got into these young players, Keilor juniors. They played a lot of minutes.

“It was super successful. We finished off the season pretty good.”

The Thunder’s season was riddled by late arrivals of imports and injuries to key players, with Burnette rarely having a full squad to pick from.

He said despite that, they pushed a lot of

the top sides especially in the back half of the season.

“We finished 2-2 and were still battling injuries,” he said. “We were without two of our starters the last four games.

“I think we were doing a good job with what we played with a lot of the time.

“We pushed some finals teams. We pushed really hard with the best of them and we nearly beat one of them.

“Every team had injuries, our injuries happened to key players when we really needed them in the next game.”

Just one player played all 22 games for the Thunder, in Macey Boyle.

Burnette said Boyle, Jaz Salon and Grace Graham really stood up towards the back end of the season.

He said Japanese import Juna Umezawa was really strong once she arrived, while Lana Hollingsworth showed her high level of play as captain.

Burnette said there was still plenty of development left in the group.

“Thelastsixtosevengames,AnnaClephane figured out how to play in this league, she played really well,” he said.

“Our oldest players on the roster was 27 and the next was 24 or 25, we were very young.”

Burnette said they had already started to look at next year’s squad. The young girl home grown players are set to be part of that.

“We will keep the core,” he said. “We will bring back eight or nine players.

“I think that is really important to do that. This year was a learning curve and how hard it is so stay focused all the time, not some of the time.”

Burnette said Salon was set to head to a D2 college in New Mexico, while Zoe Shaw had a number of college offers she was sorting through while she decides what her future holds.

Burnette said there might be the possibility for other players from the club’s Big V youth league side to make the step up and become development players with the squad next year.

“Importantly for our club, we know we are bringing in a fantastic character and individual as well as talented footballer, so we are delighted to have him on board.

“He’s the kind of player that gets people through the gates – he gets football fans excited and brings new fans to the sport with his dynamic attacking flair.”

Penha expressed his enthusiasm for the new chapter in his career with United saying he had always followed United games.

He said it was beautiful to see how much the team played together and made it difficult for the opponents.

“Now I’m happy to team up with everyone to have a great season,” he said. “It’s a young club, but it reached the top by conquering the A-League. That was one of the attractions for me to join the team.

“I’mreadytojointheteamandbeable to bring joy to the fans again, winning many victories and titles and taking the club to the top again, to put more and more fans inside the stadiums.”

Tara Murray

Tara Murray

Matthew Romeo. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 338850_08

Keilor Thunder women’s side.

(Supplied)

New under-19 netball competition on horizon

A new under-19 netball competition is in the works to fill a void left by changes to the Victorian Netball League.

TheAltonaNetballAssociationandWaverley NetballCentrearedrivingthenewleague,with expressions of interest for the new competition being put out.

There would be two conferences, one based at Altona and one at Waverley, with an overall winner crowned.

Teams could come from VNL clubs, while local associations are also being sought to express their interest.

City West Falcons coach Marg Lind, who is heavily involved in the Altona association, said there needed to be a competition to bridge the gap for young athletes.

ChangestotheVNLmeansfromnextseason therewillonlybeachampionshipandunder-23 competition,insteadofchampionship,division

1 and under-19s.

The Falcons won the under-19 title last year and will again feature in finals again this year.

“We are hoping to bridge the gap for those who will miss out with no under-19s,” Lind

said.“Wewanttogivehopetothoseinthewest and east that there’ still opportunities. We are really keen to keep the amazing pathway out here.”

Lind said there had been offers for under-19s from the VNL clubs to play at Parkville, but they would be competing in open age competitions.

She said there needs to be an under-19 competition for these athletes.

Lind said there had already been about five expressions of interest with the west competition, possibly going as far as Warrnambool and Ballarat.

The competition in Altona is set to run on Thursday nights.

Lind said there were also potential sponsors looking to come on board.

Waverley Netball Centre centre manager Michelle George said they already had athletes

Cortellino’s a rising star

By Peter Howe

It’s every sportsperson’s dream to be crowned a champion and hold the coveted cup aloft, particularly when your team is the underdog and you are in your first international tournament.

Our July Don Deeble award nominee 16-year-old Alana Cortellino lived exactly that dream when the Junior Matildas won the under-18 Asean Football Federation Championship last year.

“We played in group stages beating the Philippines 4-0, Malaysia 8-0, Myanmar 2-1,” she said. “[We beat] Thailand 1-0 in the semi-final in the last few minutes of extra time and then Vietnam in the final 2-0.

“It’s still surreal and I’m not sure how I even got there to play to be honest. It was an unbelievable feeling.”

Cortellino loved all sports growing up. She danced, loved gymnastics, basketball and swimming, then athletics became her go to thing.

Hermother,Loriwasthetaxidriverbetween stadiums, with sports every weeknight and on weekends, with both parents were also into sport and leisurely activities.

“I suppose I just loved to compete and was a very determined person,” reflected Cortellino.

She was nine years old when her friend’s played soccer at lunchtime at school and she was soon playing under-10s at Keilor Park.

Cortellino knew that sport was a driving forcesomewheredeepinsideher,sosheapplied for a scholarship to Maribyrnong Sports Academy as her secondary school of choice, which she was successful in gaining.

An under-12 practice match at Calder United had Cortellino’s ability shine and she was scouted and offered a train on position, which meant she trained once a month with the higher ranked club with older players.

She spent two years playing with Calder, before she was again scouted, this time by Football Victoria’s Talent Identification Development Centre.

“I spent two years in that program before moving into Football Victoria National Training Centre program and successfully trialledwithMelbourneVictoryaspartoftheir elite junior girls program,“ she said.

At the national youth under-16 championships last year in Coffs Harbour she was identified by Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City which both offered her training contracts after the tournament.

But it was June of that year when her big break came, she was invited to the Football Australia Junior Matildas camp in New South Wales.

Cortellino, as a 15-year-old, was then

selected to represent Australia at an under-18 international tournament.

“At this time, I didn’t have time to think, mum was out of her mind, she was so proud, as dad was too,” she said.

Cortellino, who plays right wing, said you havespeedandstaminatoplayinthatposition.

While natural ability takes you so far, hard work, dedication and a single focus takes you the rest of the way.

Cortellino trains mornings a week with the Sports Academy in the gym, which is only the start.

“I have three programs now that I am part of and have training requirements with each,“ she said. “Melbourne Victory, Future Matildas and Football Victoria Emerging,” she said.

Even during her July school holidays, Cortellino is fully focused on her football program.

Locally she is playing with the FV Emerging team in the National Premier League Women’s competition, having captained Calder United’s successful under-19 team last year.

So, what does the future hold?

“I’d love to strive towards a Matildas berth,” she said. “A scholarship with an A-League club and potentially a professional overseas contract.

“I will let it all play out and allow my football to shine.”

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 Star Weekly.

If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner at the Medway Golf Club, swrsportsclub@gmail.com or at 0408 556 631.

and teams from across the east and as far as Gippsland playing in their competitions.

“We want to do something to bridge the gap between the 17 and under rep programs that most associations already have in place and the under-23 VNL competition,” she said.

“We need the players playing against players inthesameagegroupandasimilarplaceinthe pathway.

“We want them still playing at a good level and we’re already had some interest.”

Georgesaidthecompetitionwouldbeagood way to grow the sport and keep more players playing in a high performance environment.

How the competition will look will be decidedoncethetwoassociationsgetanideaof the number of teams.

Both Lind and George hope this is only a starting point to ensure a strong pathway remains.

Sports shorts

A-League

The A-League Women’s competition has been expanded to a 22-round competition for the 2023-24 season. The A-League Women’s season will kick off on October 13 and run until May, while the A-League Men’s season will kick off a week later and also end in May. A placeholder has been put in the calendar for the National Second Tier men’s competition, with the competition set to run between March and October. Meanwhile, the NPL season is set to kick off on February 2.

Bowls

Deer Park’s Koby Cromie will play a strong role for Victoria’s under-18 team at the Australian Championships in October. Cromie, a Bowls Victoria pennant premier premiership player, has been named as Victoria’s male singles bowler. He has also been named in the pairs with Charlie Boswood. Kromie won the pairs title at last year’s championships, despite being just 15.

EDFL

Hillside will have a new women’s coach for next year’s Essendon District Football League women’s season. The Sharks announced on social media that Rob Davis had made the decision to step down from the role at the end of the season. “The club wishes to thank Rob Davis, senior women’s coach, for his dedication and efforts over the past two seasons,” the club said. “Rob has informed the club he will not be pursuing re-appointment next season due to business and family commitments. Rob will continue to coach for the remainder of this season.”

VTCA

St Albans batting line up will have a different look with Brenton Cook on the move from the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division club. Cook, who captained and coached the Saints previously, has joined Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association club Melton. Cook made nearly 2000 runs in five seasons at the Saints.

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The City West Falcons 2022 under-19 premiership team. (Tara Murray)

Alana Cortellino. (Jacob Pattison) 347268_03

Spurs name team of decade to mark 30 years

The who’s who of the Spurs Football Club were among those named in the club’s team of the decade earlier this month.

The Spurs had a special celebration to mark 30 years of the club, and as part of the celebrations named a team of the decade for 2012-2022.

The club has gone through a number of changes since Debbie Lee formed the Sunshine YCW Spurs, the first female team in Melbourne’s west, back in 1993.

It would later become the St Albans Spurs before becoming the VU Spurs and moving to Footscray.

This year the club merged with Parkside Football Club, which has allowed for further growth while keeping the Spurs history.

Spurs head of football Caroline Kilmartin said it was a pretty special night.

“It was great to have all the old players back,”

she said.

“Our original founder Debbie Lee was there and it was specialto haveall these people in the room after all these years.

“We had 90 to 100 past players, staff, volunteers, coaches, presidents and trainers there. The whole 2011 premiership team was there.”

“Having nights like this makes you realise how much being part of the club means to people.”

Kilmartin said there were many people at the night, who hadn’t been about the club for a number of years. She said hopefully it would encourage them to come back to the club more regularly.

Six current or past AFLW players were named in the team of the decade.

Former Collingwood duo Bree White and Tara Morgan, were named captain and vice-captain of the team respectively. Naomi Ferres,AlyssaMisfud,SarahLampardandAsh Guest were also named in the team.

Christina Polatajko was named coach of the side.

The biggest name in the team was Lee, who was the first female to be inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2021.

Cats fail to clip Magpies

By Tara Murray

Albion fell just short in the top of the table clash in the Western Region Football League division 2 on Saturday.

Facing Parkside, which was coming off its first loss of the season, the Cats had a good opportunity to inflict some more pain on the Magpies.

Thefirstquarternotmuchseparatedthetwo teams on the scoreboard, before the Magpies kicked six goals to one in the second quarter to open up a 39 point lead at the main break.

The Cats got on top of the physical contest in the third quarter with four goals to bring the margin back to a gettable 22 points at the last break.

The Magpies managed to stem the tide in the final quarter, to hold on to win, 9.11 (65)-6.12 (48).

The win has the Magpies three games clear of the Cats at the top of the ladder with four rounds remaining.

The Cats remain in second spot, but are now just percentage ahead of Sunshine.

The Kangaroos, who have started to find form in recent weeks, accounted for North Footscray on Saturday.

It was the Devils that started the better of the two sides, leading by 10 points at the first break.

Seven goals in the second quarter got the leadfortheKangaroos heading intothebreak.

The second half was all the Kangaroos, as they won 16.18 (114)-10.7 (67).

Charly Williams continued his good form with six goals and was named best on ground. Murray Boyd and Kurtis Barnard were among the other standouts.

In the other division 2 match, Newport got the win against Wyndhamvale to move into the top four.

Braybrook had the bye.

In division 3, the Suns got some revenge against Sunshine Heights.

The Dragons knocked the Suns off earlier in the season, the Suns only loss to date.

The Dragons struggled early in front of goal kicking five points for the opening quarter. The Suns at the other end were making the most of their opportunities.

Not much separated the teams at three quarter time, with the Suns leading by 15 points despite having five less scoring shots.

Five goals to two in the final quarter sealed the win for the Suns, 15.5 (95)-8.14 (62).

The Dragons now sit two games behind Albanvale in the race for second spot and the double chance.

On Saturday the Cobras were too strong for Laverton.

The Cobras were never needed, with the Magpies goal less in the first half. Both teams missed their opportunities, with the Cobras winning 18.14 (122)-1.10 (16).

Reece Field kicked seven goals in the win.

West Footscray beat North Sunshine in the other game, 22.17 (149)-6.10 (46).

In division 1, Caroline Springs pushed

ladder leaders Werribee Districts but weren’t able to come away with the points.

The Lakers started well and led by 22 points at the first break. The Tigers reduced that margin the next two quarters and led by two points at the last break.

Afivegoaltotwofinaltermsealedthe12.14 (86)-10.5 (65) win for the Tigers

Kilmartin said Lee set the culture at the club that still exists today.

“When I saw the team on the board, I thought it would rival any team in the AFLW these days,” she said.

“That speaks for the culture of the club.”

Kilmartin, who joined the club 11 years ago and has held a number of roles including coach andpresident,wasnamedpresidentoftheteam of the decade.

It was an honour that she wasn’t expecting.

“I was shocked, I didn’t know that was going to happen,” she said.

“I’m very stoked and humbled. I’ve seen the club through a whole lot of change.

“We won two premierships in 2019 and then everything was shut down in 2020. To be able to come through the other end and still have a club, I’m proud of that.”

Tara Murray

Reds fighting hard for strong season finish

SydenhamParkneedstofinishtheseason

strongly and hope some luck goes its way in the FV state league 1 north-west season.

The Reds were in second spot after 17 rounds, six points behind ladder leaders Altona City and last season the top two teams were promoted in the National Premier League 3 competition.

Clubs believed that would be the case again this year, but Reds coach Goran Lozanovski said they had been told that it had changed.

“About a month ago we were told by Football Victoria that one team goes up and two goes down,” he said.

“A lot of clubs aren’t happy with that move midseason, we can’t do anything about it, unless the B-league [National Second Tier] goes ahead.

“Wedon’tknowwhatishappening.It’s frustrating when things change.”

Lozanovski said the focus for the club in the last five rounds was to ensure that theyatleastconsolidatedsecondspotand see what happens from there.

He said Altona City had been the most consistent side this season and deserved to be at the top of the table.

“We need to maximise points every week from here on in and whatever is meant to be, will be,” he said.

“We’re still hurting from last week and losingtoBrimbankStallionsanditmeans there is now a huge gap between one and two.

“We have to finish every game strongly and consolidate at least second spot. We want to finish at least second for sure and if first place is up for grabs we want to take it.”

The Reds were set to face third-placed Westgate on Saturday, after deadline. A loss would mean that Westgate would move to being on equal points.

Lozanovski said while this game was massive for them, every game was with the season coming to the pointy end.

Tara Murray

Jesse Cavanagh (Jacob Pattison) 348749_03

The Spurs team of the decade. (Supplied)