Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 15th August 2023

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Spectacular showtime

A Hillside boy is among 2000 students preparing to wow audiences at John Cain Arena on September 9 for the Victorian State Schools Spectacular (VSSS).

The VSSS is a proud tradition in government schools and offers students the opportunity to take part in a performing arts showcase.

This year’s show, Happy Travels, will follow an intrepid group of hapless tourists as they traverse the globe in a cavalcade of circus mayhem.

Aydin, 14, is a year eight student at Copperfield College who will be taking to the stage as a principal dancer for the show, and he said he is feeling pumped about it.

“It is going to be an amazing experience that I will remember forever, I didn’t expect for something this big to happen so early,” he said.

“Practice is going really good for me and the whole team … The whole show just looks super epic.

“I love being able to express my feelings and emotions through dance and I really love the art of dance.”

Tackling youth knife crime

By Hannah Hammoud

A youth worker has been embedded in Taylors Lakes Secondary College to help address escalating youth knife crimes.

The Les Twentyman Foundation (LTF) has provided the school with a outreach youth worker who will partner with the school’s wellbeing team to help young people process their emotions in a less violent way.

Veteran western suburbs youth worker Les Twentymansaidthepartnershipcameaboutas a way of addressing youth violence in the area.

Last month three teenagers were allegedly stabbed at Watergardens Shopping Centre following an altercation between a group of teenagers.

“As a community we cannot police our way out of anti-social behaviour by young people,” Mr Twentyman said. “The answer lies instead in investing in programs that we know work, programs that provide direct support to children at the first sign of struggle, which produces positive results.

“There are no bad kids, they are the victims of the environment in which they find themselves, and the earlier we can get in and provide the support they need the more positive the outcomes for everybody.

“If you want young people to make better choices, then as a community we need to provide them with all the help and guidance that we can for them to do so.”

As part of the LTF’s partnership with the

school, Mr Twentyman joined police for a question and answer session to discuss with students the dangers of violence and the use of weapons.

Taylors Lakes Secondary College principal Danny Dedes said partnership was designed to aid students in developing positive social and emotional skills, as well as encouraging them to take responsibility for their own behaviour.

“Through a range of interactive workshops and activities, students learn about empathy, respect, and the importance of diversity,” he said. “The partnership between the college and the Les Twentyman Foundation is a wonderful example of collaboration between two organisations with a shared goal of supporting young people.”

Aydin will perform in the Victorian State Schools Spectacular this year.

(Damjan Janevski) 351387_05

LTF outreach youth worker Asa Alefaio, Taylors Lakes Secondary College student support services leader Maria Tsatalios, LTF founder Les Twentyman, First Constable Amanda Hall and Senior Constable Steve Attard. (Supplied)

Mum’s plea for help after hit run

By Hannah Hammoud

A 13-year-old boy who was on his way to catch the school bus has ended up in hospital withabrokenanklefollowingahitandrunin St Albans.

Police said the boy was hit by a car at a pedestrian crossing on Main Road West near Army Street, just after 8.30am, on August 9.

The 13-year-old boy, Joshua, had a green walking signal to cross the street, but was struck by a driver in a blue Ford Falcon sedan who failed to stop at the red light, police said.

Senior Sergeant Jason Dolman said police are urging the driver, who has not yet been identified, to come forward and attend the Keilor Downs Police station.

Joshua’s mother, Isobella Cooper said the incident has been “traumatic” for her son who has undergone surgery for his broken

ankle and is awaiting a second procedure.

“I was around the corner, I got the phone call and ran straight away to make sure he was OK and found him on a park bench with lovely people helping him,” she said.

“All he was doing was running across the other side to get to the school bus and catch that down to school. He does it every single morning and he knows, always to go on a green light and not to go ever on a red light.”

Ms Cooper said she was shocked watching the dashcam footage, where the driver hits her son, and continues to drive away. She is

Strengthening cultural connections

Not-for-profit organisation, Women of Brimbank,isbringingthecommunitytogether for a celebration of culture this September.

The multicultural showcase is a free community event marking the spiritual celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi Utsav. The festival is celebrated each year, and marks the birth of Lord Ganesh the God of new beginnings.

Thisyear’sshowcasewillcelebratethediverse communitieswithinBrimbank,witharangeof cultural performances from all age groups.

Women of Brimbank founder and director Poonam Singh strives to empower and support local migrant women.

As a professional driving instructor, Ms Singh taught newly arrived immigrant women and was inspired to form the group after meeting many women who were feeling isolated.

“I thought of making this group where we can help each other and empower women. We startedthegroupin2013whichfirstbeganwith just going to picnics. Now we have festivals and celebrations that we all do together,” she said.

Ms Singh said with the support of Brimbank council, this is the first time the festival is open to the wider public.

“Anybody is invited to attend, not just the Indian community. Any person can come

and join us. We will celebrate our festival but also connect with other cultural performers and community people to come together and celebrate,” she said.

“I’m also doing this event to give an opportunity to the younger generations to perform at the show and increase their confidence, and to explore the tradition of other communities.”

Themulticulturalshowcasewilltakeplaceon September 9, from 1pm-8pm at 19 Carrington Drive, Albion. Register: https://shorturl.at/wMNPU

Hannah Hammoud

People encouraged to claim $109 million

More than $100 million is owed to Victorians by the State Revenue Office (SRO) including more than quarter of a million dollars to a woman living in Ardeer.

Victorianshavebeenencouragedtogoonline to check whether they are among thousands entitled to $109m in unclaimed money lodged with Victoria’s State Revenue Office.

The office holds records of money that are unclaimed after 12 months, including refunds, rents and bonds, share dividends, salaries and wages, debentures, interest and proceeds from sales.

The most lucrative potential windfalls belong to a man last listed as living in Box Hill ($882,697) and an Ardeer woman ($259,828).

There are roughly 678,000 entitlements, including 45,653 claims worth $13,633,759 in theCityofMelbourne,36,332worth$7,516,798 in Stonnington and 35,246 worth $7,103,869 in Boroondara.

The top three largest entitlement pools within regional Victoria are from Mornington Peninsula ($2,811,030), Yarra Ranges ($2,072,196) and Greater Geelong ($1,906,251).

Most of the entitlement records have been held for less than 10 years.

The office also holds winnings from TAB, Tabcorp, Tattersalls and Intralot that are unclaimed for six months or more.

A winning ticket from March 2016 for $2,136,327 is yet to be cashed in.

To search for the unclaimed cash, Victorians willneedtheirnameorcompanynameandthe address of the lodging organisation would have had on file.

“This is money that belongs to citizens and wewantitintheirhands,“TreasurerTimPallas said.

“If the SRO is holding unclaimed money in yournameyou’llknowwithinseconds,andthe process for recovery is straightforward.“

Victorian businesses and trustees holding $20 or more in unclaimed money must record and keep the money for at least 12 months before lodging it with the SRO.

– AAP

urging the driver behind the wheel to come forward to police.

“… How could someone just leave him on the ground?

“Everyone makes mistakes and I understand that and my sons got to live with the consequences, and [the driver] has to step up for the consequences as well,” she said.

Ms Cooper said Jousha is in hospital and is doing well to recover, and is encouraging anyone with information or further dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

More Park pavilion is officially open

The new community sports pavilion and sports facilities at More Park on Esmond Street in Ardeer, have officially been opened.

The park features a new $8.4 million sports pavilion, sportsgrounds, multi-purpose batting cage, car park and path network.

The work include a complete upgrade of the whole reserve with new sportsground floodlighting, a new car park and new paths.

It also includes construction of an accessible sports pavilion complete with four new female friendly change room facilities, along with umpire, office, kitchen, first aid, social areas and storerooms.

The new pavilion will allow greater use by tenant sports clubs and the broader community. Community groups can use the meeting space in the social room during the day, maximising use and participation by community of the park and facilities. The project was completed with a $4 million grant from the state government, as well as a $4.4 million contribution from Brimbank council. Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire said More Park is an asset for the whole community.

“… More Park has a new lease of life and is ready to become a home for softball and soccer,” he said.

“The new multi-purpose batting cage will delight softball players of all ages, and special consideration has been made to ensure the new facilities are accessible and female friendly.”

Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire, St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman, North Sunshine Eagles Football Club president Memet Selimi, Brimbank Cr Sam David and North Sunshine Eagles Football Club Secretary Adam Demiri at More Park. (Supplied)

Swagatika Swain and Poonam Singh are inviting the community to the Women of Brimbank Multicultural Showcase. (Damjan Janevski) 351467_01

‘‘ How could someone just leave him on the ground? ’’ - Isobella Cooper

Briefs

Sunshine landfill session

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) invites the community to an information session on the Sunshine landfill issue. The session is on Thursday, August 17, from 5-7pm at the Kealba Hall.

Safe screws

The Sunshine and Keilor Downs police stations have refreshed their supply of one way screws to help curb number plate theft. The screws are free and can be easily fitted with a flat head screwdriver. As there are four different screw sizes, locals are encouraged to remove one screw from the front and rear number plates and bring them into the station for a correct match.

Charges over industrial waste

Wander in the Willows

Children’s novel The Wind in the Willows is beingbroughttolifebylocalkidsinacelebration of nature, friendship, loyalty, and adventure.

Powderkeg kids will bring Kenneth Grahame’s much loved story adapted by Mike Kenny to the stage at Dempster Park Hall in September.

The show has been directed by husband and wife duo David and Donna Prince and is supported by a full cast of young local talent.

Mr Prince said the show has its own creative flair and is one that can be enjoyed by all ages.

“We’ve employed different techniques and aspects to make this show an all-ages show for everyone to enjoy. TheWindintheWillowsis a

story known universally, and we’ve created our own take on it,” he said.

The kids are rehearsing to deliver the show next month, and Mr Prince is inviting the community to follow the thrilling escapades of Ratty, Mole, Badger and Mr Toad

“I’m looking forward to having people come and see the show and see the joy that we’ve gained through the rehearsals be shared with the people in the audience,” he said.

The show will open on Friday, September 1 at Dempster Park Hall in Sunshine North.

Details: https://shorturl.at/cgoDS

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has laid charges against Glen Ora Estate Pty Ltd and both company directors, Ronald Silverstein and Robert Apostoloff. The case involves the alleged dumping of industrial waste at Solomon Heights estate in Sunshine North, between February 24, 2021, and September 16, 2021. It is alleged amongst the industrial waste was category B contaminated soil that included asbestos material, waste glass, brick and tiles. The company and directors have also been charged with contravening a clean-up notice.

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Hannah Hammoud

Powderkeg kids Alexandra, Mathilda, Lily and Cassidy. (Stephen Andrews)

Company fined over waste piles

Cleanaway Pty Ltd has been convicted and fined $15,000 over missed deadlines and badly managed waste stockpiles at its Brooklyn facility.

Environment Protection Authority (EPA)

Victoria’s investigation began after officers responded to two small fires at the Old Geelong Road Waste and Recovery Centre in early 2021.

EPA officers found stockpiles of wood chips, scrap timber and mixed waste that were in breach of safety policies.

Stockpiles were too high and too close together, the EPA said.

The company had also failed to meet

EPA-imposed deadlines for fire risk and management plans.

In January 2021, approximately 65 firefighters responded to a fire at the waste management centre on Old Geelong Road.

Later in the year in August, approximately 30 firefighters responded to another fire at the

Brooklyn facility, which caused a smoke alert to be issued for a dozen suburbs.

CleanawayPtyLtdfacedtheBroadmeadows Magistrates Court on August 10 where it was fined $15,000.

The company was also ordered to pay the EPA $7,344.

EPA western metropolitan regional manager Stephen Lansdell said the case is a clear warning to businesses.

‘’It is critical how you store and stockpile waste. You must prevent any fire risks. All businesses must understand the importance of meeting EPA deadlines and notice requirements,” he said.

Make a difference at your local CFA

Caroline Springs CFA is calling on new volunteers to join the brigade and help prepare for summer.

Volunteeringformorethan10years,Caroline

Springs CFA firefighter Ryan Baker said the crew welcomes, “anyone and everyone” to join the team and help serve their local community.

Mr Baker said he first joined the CFA as a wayforhimtogivebackandmakeadifference.

“Volunteering with the CFA is a lot more than just firefighting, we are one big family,” he said.

Operating with 40 members across two

stations in Caroline Springs and Hillside, the crew is looking to expand its volunteer base as it anticipates a particularly hot summer.

Mr Baker said the CFA is looking at the heatwaves occurring across the northern hemisphere, and are preparing for predictions that Australia will experience similar weather conditions during the summer months.

“We are preparing for what we think is going to be a very hot summer, one that will certainly be warmer than the last two or three years,” he said.

“We are always trying to recruit volunteers,

the more hands we have the better and there are a variety of roles where people can help out.”

For those interested in volunteering, the CFA provides full training and support across a range of roles including, fire fighting, road rescue, emergency medical response, fundraising and community engagement and education.

Details: https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ volunteers-careers/volunteer-with-cfa

Hannah Hammoud

“These policies are there to prevent catastrophic fires. They limit the size of piles and give firefighters the chance to trap the fire while it is still small.”

EPA conducts hundreds of proactive inspections and takes 20,000 calls a year from the public as part of fire prevention programs.

“The community in Melbourne’s western suburbs expects much better and does not deserve to be put at any risk from more fires. If you see any pollution or have any concerns please report them to us,” Mr Lansdell said.

Members of the public can report pollution online at epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/ reporting-pollution

Action against unlicenced estate agency

A Sunshine estate agency, which allegedly traded while unlicenced, faces up to $165,220 in potential fines, according to Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV).

Kamn Real Estate Pty Ltd also faces chargesoffailingtonotifythedirector of CAV within 14 days of opening a statutory trust account and failing to meet an inspector’s investigation requirements, as required under the Estate Agents Act.

People who lose money due to licenced estate agencies breaking the law can access compensation from the Victorian Property Fund – but those who unknowingly engage the services of an unlicensed agent are not protected.

CAV director Nicole Rich said the case highlighted the importance of only dealing with a licenced estate agent.

Ms Rich said CAV would continue to identify and pursue agents and agencies that failed to meet their responsibilities.

“We will act to protect buyers, vendors and the industry from unprofessional and unlawful conduct,” she said.

CAV has started court proceedings against Kamn Real Estate Pty Ltd and the company will appear in court at a future date.

The estate agency will face court on three charges related to alleged unlicensed trading and other Estate Agents Act breaches.

The alleged offences occurred between December 2020 and April 2021.

Victorians can check to see if the estate agent they are dealing with is licensedusingtheCAVpublicregister.

Deatils: https://www.consumer.vic. gov.au/licensing-and-registration/ estate-agents/public-register

New Sunshine childcare centre to provide 130 places

Children and families in Sunshine will benefit from the opening of a new childcare centre in 2025, that is set to provide 130 new spaces for local kids.

The state government announced 50 new childcare centres for Victoria, with the first four to open in Sunshine, Fawkner, Eaglehawk North and Murtoa.

The services will offer childcare and threeand-four-year-old kindergarten, as well as spaces for maternal and child health and allied

health.

Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire said council welcomes the news that one of the first state government-owned and operated childcare centres will be set up in Sunshine.

“It’s fantastic to see Victorian Government investment in early childhood education within the Brimbank community,” he said.

“The centre will offer affordable childcare opportunities to local families and additional places for three and four year old kindergarten.

It will be co-located at Sunshine Primary School, providing the convenience for a single drop off and allows transitional support for families that have children attending both the childcare centre and the school.”

The centres have been announced in communities that have been assessed as having the greatest need, which considers the availability of childcare in the local area, likely future demand and socio-economic measures,

the government said,

Thirty of the 50 locations have already been announced, with the final 20 to be confirmed by the end of this year, and all 50 centres to be operational by 2028.

Between 2030 and 2032 four-year-old kindergarten will transition to pre-prep in Brimbank and funded kindergarten hours will double from 15 to 30 hours a week.

Hannah Hammoud

Caroline Springs CFA volunteers Joshua Bokos, Ryan Baker, Jake Busuttil, Brad Nithsdale and Julie Wright. (Damjan Janevski) 352788_01

‘‘ It is critical how you store and stockpile waste. You must prevent any fire risks ’’

- Stephen Lansdell

Female health care lags in west

By Hannah Hammoud

Women living in Melbourne’s west are suffering from a lack of available health services, according to a local gynaecologist. Obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Sneha Parghi said when it comes to specialist care in women’s health, there is a scarcity in the western suburbs of Melbourne.

“I’ve been working in women’s health for several years. There is a dearth of services for women in the west, and this has been the case for a long time,” she said.

“Melbourne’s west is generally neglected when it comes to health services, and women’s health is neglected overall. This combination does not make for necessary opportunities for women to seek out the help they need.

“This lack speaks to the greater lack of attention for women’s health. Women in the west need to trek into the city in order to get the care they need or desire and this includes specialised gynaecology services, private obstetric care, and termination services.”

A state government spokesperson said the government has provided significant funding

Rising stars in research

Year 9 deep learning students from Victoria University Secondary College (VUSC) are delving into research to tackle issues that are impacting young people.

In conjunction with Brimbank Youth Services, students are participating in the Brimbank Young Researchers in Schools Program to develop advanced qualitative research skills

Alongside the help from research academics, students are working in small groups to explore a key issue, gather data and deliver recommendations on the issue.

VUSC instructional coach Mary-France Navera said the program aims to develop students’ problem-solving, critical and creative thinking skills that will put them in good stead for VCE and tertiary studies.

“Studentsareveryawareofwhatishappening in their community and they want to look at issues that affect them and their age group,” she said. “At the moment we are at the point

where students’ have developed their inquiry questions, and are preparing to interview five different people who they feel have experience or opinions on their chosen topic.

“The students are enjoying the program and finding it challenging at the same time, which is exactly what it is supposed to be doing.”

In term four, each group will present their project to Brimbank councillors, as well as the school’s leadership team to see how the recommendations can be implemented at a local level.

“Wearetryingtoinvolveyoungpeopleinthe community to have a voice and empower them to come up with ideas on how to resolve some of these issues they are facing,” she said.

The research topics aim to investigate a breadth of issues including the impacts of vaping on young people and the experience of first generation young migrants in schools.

Hannah Hammoud

to treat women’s health issues, acknowledging that they have been under-diagnosed for too long.

“We are establishing 20 new women’s health clinics to provide wraparound care – a one-stop shop for women’s health, available for free and close to home,” the spokesperson said.

Dr Parghi cautioned the state government against a one size fits all approach.

“Endometriosishasreceivedalotofattention lately, and so it should. Approximately one in nine women suffer from endometriosis

and there is an average delay to diagnosis of six to seven years. This leads to a lot of undue suffering and does not allow women to contribute to their communities in the ways they wish,” she said,

“However, it needs to be emphasised that not all pain is endometriosis, and not all endometriosis causes pain. Pain is incredibly complex and requires comprehensive multidisciplinary teams to approach it from all angles … I hope these women’s health centres will consider this in their design and implementation.”

Victoria University Secondary College students Quynh, Lucinda, Aundre and Casey. (Damjan Janevski) 350750_01

Feedback wanted on the planned road to zero

There is an opportunity for the community to provide feedback to the state government on the rollout of the zero emissions buses (ZEB) across the west.

As part of the state government’s drive to transition the bus network to zero emissions, Public Transport Minister Ben Carroll launched a consultation paper to help support the shift to zero emissions.

The Zero Emission Bus Transition Consultation Paper sets out the proposed approach to transitioning the state’s bus network of approximately 4500 buses to zero emission, from 2025.

Earlier this year, Sunshine West was

announced as one of the new homes for an electric bus fleet, forming part of the zero emissions bus trial.

Bus operator Kinetic began running electric buses on various routes operating out of Sunshine. Supporting the rollout, undercover bays were also built to provide weather protection and charging infrastructure for the buses, including 24 charging dispensers.

The three-year trial leading up to 2025 seeks to foster local industry partnerships and support local jobs with energy providers and bus manufacturers.

The trial has provided evidence about

performance, depot charging needs, capacity, infrastructure and energy network requirements, environmental outcomes and customer expectations.

The transition has been touted as a benefit that will help tackle climate change, improve air quality, improve bus passenger experience with a smoother and quieter ride and boost local manufacturing and construction industries

Mr Carroll said the transition still requires “significant change,” and is seeking feedback from operators, industry and the wider community.

“ … We are working with industry on

Gala for bus crash kids

By Liam McNally

Ravenhall dance groups Phoenix Dance Company and Dance Effects will join more than a dozen dance schools from across the westthatarecomingtogetherforacharitygala to raise money for Exford Primary School.

Melton’s Galactic Dance and Events owner and teacher Andrew Micallef was inspired to organise the Exford Primary Charity Gala after having students and family members connected to the May 16 school bus collision on Exford Road.

“Walking into the studio and having so many families affected completely broke my heart,” he said.

“I’m really trying to let these poor families know that the performing arts are behind them and doing what we can to help them out.

“This is a cause that we need to get behind and we hope the whole community can as well … It’s a lifetime thing for these kids so we’re hoping to make this a yearly occasion.”

Mr Micallef said this is the first time any of these schools will perform together in a non-competitive environment.

“There’s never been anything like it in the western suburbs … The variety of performances, music, the high energy - it’ll be quite a spectacle,” he said.

“The fact that the dance community has come together for this cause is really inspiring … When it comes to these kinds of events everyone wants to put their best foot forward so that’s exactly what we’re going to get.”

Exford Primary school captain Lily and has been a student at Galactic Dance since she was three years old. She said it’s incredible how much support the school has received from different communities.

“It is even more special knowing that the fundraiser organised by Drew and Galactic and the other dance studios will not only provide support to the school but also a chance to entertain our community,” she said.

“Although I wasn’t affected physically by

the crash, it was very heart-breaking and overwhelming, knowing that my friends and classmates, including two of my fellow school captains were hurt.

“I look forward to dancing in the charity gala along with the other studios and helping to support my school community.”

The gala will include performances by comedian Jordan Barr, Paul Rizzo as Michael Jackson, Enya Angel and the Robert Sturrock Dancers, Western Ballet Project, Flash Dance Performing Arts Studio, Dance Effects, Phoenix Dance Company, The Dance Centre, The Edge, Dream Entertainment Studios, Instyle Dance Company, The Dance Room, Energy Dance Co, Eynesbury Dance Scene, Millennium Dance Concepts and Galactic Dance and Events.

The Exford Primary Charity Gala will take place on August 20 from 6pm at the Quin Auditorium in Braybrook.

Details: https://www.trybooking.com/ CKARE

how we use this opportunity to create a stronger industry, boost local manufacturing and improve customer experience,” he said.

Brimbank council is considering making a submission on the matter, and have said it is in full support of the rollout of zero emissions buses.

Feedback can be made by completing the survey or uploading a submission on the Zero Emission Bus Transition webpage.

Details: https://engage.vic.gov.au/ ZEBtransition

Hannah Hammoud

Better care for young patients

A new system to support young hospital patients and their carers to easily raise their concerns with health workers if they notice worrying changes in their child’s condition will be introduced across Victoria, including at Sunshine Hospital.

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas announced the Safer Care for Kids, a new family-led project from Safer Care Victoria (SCV) to improve outcomes for children in emergency care, last week.

“Families who have lost theair children because of a paediatric sentinel event have driven the launch of Safer Care for Kids and will be critical to its success , we thank them for their tireless and passionate advocacy,” she said.

Ms Thomas said the new escalation system would be designed in consultation with health services, and followsthesuccessfulimplementationof similar processes in other jurisdictions.

A virtual paediatric consultation system will also be introduced, which will provide 24-hour access to specialist paediatric experts and services.

Thethirdchangewillbethemandated use of standardised and age-specific charts whenever a child’s vital signs are recorded.

The standardised charts, known as the Victorian Children’s Tool for Observation and Response (ViCTOR), are already used in many Victorian healthservicestorecogniseandrespond to clinical deterioration in children.

The government said this year’s Sentinel Events Report documented the total number of annual sentinel events have risen to 240 in 2021-22, up from 168 the previous year.

Council asks for help with ‘extremely dangerous’ road

Melton council is advocating to the state government to address safety concerns about truck traffic on Christies Road in Ravenhall.

Christies Road forms part of a north-south corridor within the Melton municipality which connects Caroline Springs train station to the Western Highway, and also services Victoria’s largest landfill site.

At a recent council meeting councillor Goran Kesic raised concerns about the road, which he said poses a “great safety risk”.

“Residents of Caroline Springs are sick and tired of dumpster trucks coming from all directions since Christies Road was opened,”

he said.

“We had dozens of near misses, some crashes … and it’s time to take action to improve traffic safety.”

Council voted to write to Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne requesting that the Department of Transport and Planning undertake a safety review, including sight lines and speed zones.

The main concern raised was the number of heavy vehicles using three intersections on Christies Road, one at Ballarat Road, one at Palm Springs, and another at Caroline Springs train station.

Cr Kathy Majdlik agreed that the section of

road is “extremely dangerous”.

“Heavy vehicle trucks should not be mixing with regular cars and passenger drivers,” she said.

“We always did mark these concerns when they had opened that extra road to the Ravenhall tip but I hope that the minister will take this seriously and really look at the safety concerns before somebody else gets hurt.”

The Department for Planning and Transport (DPT) said road and intersection improvements are considered based on various factors, regularly monitors the state’s transport network for potential improvement

and takes into account advice from stakeholders.

“The Department of Transport and Planning will continue to work closely with councils, who play an important role in guiding and informing future road planning options,” a DPT spokesperson said.

“We all have a role to play when it comes to road safety and we welcome community feedback about how we can make our road network safer.”

Liam McNally

Dancers Lily, Liana, Saoirse, Jada, Hannah, Sienna and Fifi preparing for the gala. (Damjan Janevski) 351231_01

15 August 2023

STAY INFORMED

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

facebook.com/cityofmelton

Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

Fair Go 4 Youth

Our Fair Go 4 Youth program to make extra-curriculars more affordable for more families so every child can learn, grow and reach their full potential. The program covers up to $400 per year in registration costs for someone aged 8 to 16 to attend community activities that enrich their lives and education.

A better place for food waste

Fair Go 4 Youth can be used to help attend clubs like AFL, baseball, Scouts and Guides, dance and martial arts, and even cooking and theatre hobby groups.

An additional $200 per year will be available for someone with a disability.

More details are available at melton.vic.gov.au/fairgo4youth

Coburn Ward with Cr Julie Shannon

The cost of living crisis is hitting everyone hard and lots of people are doing it tough in our city.

If you need help to get food or groceries, please reach out to some of our local food relief agencies at melton.vic.gov.au/food-relief

Council can also help connect you with housing and homelessness services; and considering homelessness week is this month, we are well aware that there is high need in this area. Please also reach out if you need financial counselling, crisis counselling or parenting support services.

We recently adopted the 2023/24 Budget which has a few highlights for Coburn Ward including $10.35 million for construction of Bridge Road; $5.7 million for construction of the Bridge Road Community Hub; $3.75 million to upgrade a section of Bulmans Road; $1.8 million for Synthetic Turf Renewal at Kurunjang Recreation Reserve; and just under

a million dollars for bridge upgrades and to construct a roundabout at the intersection of Exford and Greigs Roads.

To learn about projects being delivered in your neighbourhood, visit budget.melton.vic.gov.au

And just a reminder that you can book a free hard waste collection online at melton.vic.gov.au/ HardWaste. Melton residents are entitled to two free hard waste collections or two visits to the Melton Recycling Facility every year. Don’t forget our City of Melton conversations page, your feedback on our projects is valuable. Sign up for alerts at conversations.melton. vic.gov.au to hear about our latest consultations.

Feel free to contact me regarding Coburn Ward or Council related issues on 0499 801 302; email: Julie.shannon@melton.vic.gov.au or like my Facebook page @ julieshannonformelton

Help reduce landfill and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by putting food and garden scraps in your green bin.

Fruit and vegetables, eggshells, meat and bones are all accepted in the green bin, as well as grass clippings, small branches and weeds.

Find out more at melton.vic.gov.au/FOGO

Imagination Magic

September’s Imagination Magic is our Teddy Bears Picnic and bookings are open now. Come along and bring your teddy bear and join us for our show all about teddy bears. With music, magic, stories, puppets and songs, you’re sure to have a GRRREAT time!

Imagination Magic is a monthly performing arts and literacy program for babies, toddlers and pre-school children, and their parents and caregivers with new performers and activities every month to encourage child interaction and provides children with a fun, creative, stimulating experience filled with music and movement.

Get in quick because bookings are limited: melton.vic.gov.au/ imaginationmagic

Mayor’s message

Cr Lara Carli

Last Tuesday I joined the Honourable Ros Spence, Minister for Suburban Development, for a tour of Melton Town Centre to talk about Council’s important town centre renewal project.

The renewal is having great success, from turning the heritage Melton Courthouse into a bustling icecream café, to the Hot House pop-up shops opening up shopfronts to start-up entrepreneurs.

We had an opportunity to look at the construction site for the future Kids Zone, a new playspace in Melton Town Centre on the corner of High Street and Palmerston Street. By creating an engaging and unique play space within the Melton Town Centre, we will encourage more visitors to the area and support local community connection and businesses.

That afternoon, I joined Josh Bull, MP for Sunbury, to open the new playground upgrades at Splendour Circuit Reserve in Diggers Rest.

The $75,000 upgrades included the installation of play equipment designed to encourage exploration and discovery for younger children as well as the inclusion of additional accessible seating and new tree and shrub plantings.

All of these projects were delivered in partnership with the Victorian Government and are just some of the hundreds of projects Council is doing around our city to make it better every single day.

Upgrades like this help deliver walkable, liveable suburbs for everyone.

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

Mayor Cr Lara Carli

Deputy Mayor Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Justine Farrugia

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Kathy Majdlik

Cr Sophie Ramsey Cr Bob Turner Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

West star in the making

By Liam McNally

A Caroline Springs teenager has left judges enamouredonseason12of TheVoiceAustralia, soaring through her live audition that aired on Tuesday, August 8.

Maree Mamalis took to the stage on national TV and performed a rendition of the Billie Eilish ballad, ListenbeforeIgo

Within 13 seconds judge Rita Ora spun her chair to audience applause and by the end of the song the other judges, Guy Sebastian, Jason Derulo and Jessica Mauboy had done the same, making it clear her powerful vocal performance had impressed.

Sebastian called her audition “incredible”.

“Whatonearthjusthappened?”heremarked.

“You look so sweet, and then that thing comes out of you that is so big and strong.”

Judges clamoured to be selected as the one to coach Mamalis throughout the show, with Derulo even “blocking” Sebastian , a tool each judge can use once per season.

In the end Mamalis selected American singer-songwriter Derulo to be her coach for the show, who said when he was coming to Australia he was promised there was going to be “amazing talent”.

“I have been blown away so early in the show andIthinkyouareashininglightthatneedsto be shown all over the world, and I’d just love to be a part of that journey,” he said.

The 17-year-old began singing in 2017. Mamalis said she has always been a fan of The Voice

“As a little girl I would pretend I was a coach and I would sit on a swivel chair with my back to the tv and turn for those I wanted on my team so it was a full circle moment when I was approached to audition for the show,” she said.

“I love that singing makes me feel free and like I can just be myself.”

Mamalis said the response to her performance was gratifying after having her confidence in her abilities shaken by some of her school peers.

“Unfortunately my confidence was brought down by people at school who would bully and would make fun of my singing and mimic me,” she said.

“It really hurt me, but over time I rebuilt my confidence. I wanted to do this and be an

Registrations now open for Youth Fest

Brimbank council has opened registrations for a clothing swap event as part of Youth Fest 2023.

At the clothing swap young people will be able to browse through clothing to choose pieces to swap with items they no longer want.

In Australia, over 200,000 tonnes of clothing goes to landfill each year. This event aims to reduce clothing consumption and promote the habit of reusing clothes.

Attendees can bring up to five items of clothing or accessories that they no longer wear and swap them for five swapped items. Clothes brought to the swap must be clean, good quality and in good condition: not worn out, faded, pillaged, pongy or damaged.

Clothing or accessories that can be swapped include, dresses, pants, skirts, tops, jumpers, coats, jumpsuits, shoes, bags, scarves, hats, sunglasses and jewellery.

example to others who have experienced the same treatment I did, to not listen to others and to follow your dreams and not to give up, it sounds cliche but I am a perfect example of that.

“It has by far been the best experience of my life, to be able to have this opportunity to be able to show Australia my voice and my story, as well as being able to hopefully have a platform to inspire others is such an honour.

The clothing swap is open to all young people aged 10 to 25, and will take place on September 26, at VISY Cares Hub in Sunshine from 11am-2pm.

Items can be dropped off between 11am-noon. Swapping will start at noon.

Details: https://www.eventbrite. com.au/e/youth-fest-clothing-swaptickets-657305036057

Maree Mamalis singing in her home studio. (Jacob Pattison) 352253_03

Helping kids with maths adds up for parents and carers

Helping primary school children learn math at home can be a rewarding experience that lays a strong foundation for their future academic success. Parents play a crucial role in fostering a positive attitude towards math and providing the necessary support. Here are some effective strategies for parents to help their primary school children learn math at home:

1. Create a positive attitude – Parents should maintain a positive attitude towards math themselves and avoid expressing any negativity. Emphasise that math is a valuable skill that can be interesting and fun. Avoid saying things like “I was never good at math” to prevent your child from developing a similar mindset.

2. Incorporate math into daily life –Integrate math into everyday activities. While cooking, involve your child in measuring ingredients, estimating quantities, and understanding fractions. When shopping, ask them to compare prices, calculate discounts, or estimate the total cost.

3. Play math games – Engage in math games and puzzles that make learning enjoyable. Board games, card games, and online math apps offer interactive ways to reinforce math concepts, improve problem-solving skills, and enhance logical thinking.

4.Establishadedicatedstudyspace– Create a comfortable and organised study space where your child can focus on math activities. Minimise distractions and provide the necessary math tools, such as pencils, paper, rulers, and calculators.

5. Set realistic goals – Set achievable goals based on your child’s current math level.

Celebratetheirsuccesses,nomatterhowsmall, to boost their confidence and motivation.

6.Usereal-lifeexamples– Show how math is relevant in the real world. When planning a family outing, discuss distances, travel times, and routes. Calculate the tip at a restaurant or determine the change after making a purchase.

7. Be patient and supportive – Each child learns at their own pace. Be patient and provide the necessary support. Offer guidance

without imposing pressure, and be ready to explain concepts multiple times if needed.

8.Encourageproblem-solving– Expose your childtovariousmathproblemsthatencourage critical thinking and problem-solving. Encourage them to approach challenges from different angles and develop their own strategies.

9. Provide practical applications – Connect math concepts to practical applications. For instance, when learning about fractions, use

pizza slices to illustrate different fractions and their relationships.

10. Communicate with teachers – Stay in touch with your child’s math teacher to understand the curriculum and identify areas where your child might need additional support. This partnership ensures a coordinated effort between school and home.

11. Use online resources – Utilise reputable online resources that offer interactive math lessons,tutorials,andpracticeexercises.These resources can reinforce classroom learning and provide additional practice.

12. Read math-related books – Explore math-related storybooks that make math concepts more relatable and engaging. These books can stimulate your child’s interest in math and provide different perspectives on the subject.

13. Emphasise mistakes as learning opportunities– Encourage your child to view mistakes as a natural part of learning. Discuss errors openly, identify the areas that need improvement, and work together to overcome challenges.

14.Makemathafamilyactivity– Involve the entire family in math-related activities. Play math trivia games during family gatherings, solve puzzles together, or have a math-themed movie night. By adopting these strategies, parents can create a supportive and engaging learning environment at home, fostering their primary school children’s interest and confidence in math. Remember that your positive involvement can have a lasting impact on their academic success and overall attitude towards learning.

Supportive relationships integral to Stevensville PS

Stevensville Primary School places such a strong emphasis on effective teaching and learning, as well as catering to individual student needs.

Prioritisingthewellbeingofeverychildand striving to help students grow while fostering meaningful relationships is an admirable approach to education.

Creating an environment where students can thrive academically and emotionally is crucial for their overall development.

By tailoring the learning experience to each student’s needs, you’re more likely to engage them and help them reach their full potential.

Additionally, focusing on building meaningful relationships can contribute to a supportive and positive school community, which in turn can have a lasting impact on students’ social and emotional growth.

Stevensville Primary School offers school tours. School tours can be an essential part of the enrolment process, as they allow parents,

guardians, and prospective students to get a first-hand look at the school’s facilities, classrooms, and overall atmosphere. It’s a wonderfulopportunityforfamiliestoseeifthe school aligns with their values, expectations, and educational goals.

If you have any specific questions or topics you’d like to discuss further about education, school environments, or fostering positive relationships among students, contact the school.

School tours are available with assistant principal Ozlem Coskun. Call the school office for bookings or visit the website for an enrolment form.

Details: https://www.steveps.vic.edu.au/ page/180/Enrolment-

Assistant principal Ozlem Coskun. (Supplied)

Coming together to fight stroke

The National Stroke Foundation is calling on all Australians to unite by ‘Fighting Stroke Together,’ this National Stroke Week. Jennifer Pittorino spoke to Antonio Iannella about his life as a stroke survivor.

Antonio Iannella wants people to know that they don’t have to be elderly or unhealthy to have a stroke.

TheMeltonresidentsufferedastrokein2009 at 38-years-old while on a family holiday in Vietnam.

“Literally moments before we were about to enter the Cu Chi tunnels, which are underground war tunnels, I just collapsed, there was no pre-warning,” Antonio said.

He was rushed to a medical clinic in Ho Chi Minh City.

“By that stage, I was pretty much completely paralysed and wasn’t able to speak or see, I couldn’t hear and couldn’t swallow.

“I was put in intensive care for about five days, and then from intensive care into a ward, and just ever so slowly, things started really returning to normal.”

After Antonio began to regain movement in hishandsandfeet,hewasputonarescueflight to Melbourne.

“When I landed in Melbourne, I went to Royal Melbourne Hospital and eventually into Sunshine Hospital where I began rehab.

“I started intense therapy rehab, from occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech therapy, which took 10 weeks for me to start walking. Shortly after that I was discharged and began my life as a stroke survivor.”

Stroke Foundation stroke service interim executive director Kelvin Hill describes a stroke as a blockage or bursting of the blood supply in the brain.

“It is an impacting of the blood supply to parts of the brain, and there are two types of stroke,” he said.

“The most common type of stroke which affects about 80 per cent of stroke survivors is a blockage in the artery, which then stops the blood on the other side of that blockage.

“The other, which is less common, is a bleed where your blood vessel bursts and bleeding

goes into your brain, and they call that a haemorrhage.”

For Antonio, the reason he had a stroke was attributed to a weakness in his brain which caused a brain haemorrhage.

“As we know the reasons people have strokes are different, mine had nothing to do with my actual physical health,” he said.

“I was born with a weak vein in my brain, this is known as an artery vein malformation.

“Only one per cent of the global population have this condition and then a lesser amount of that actually suffers from a stroke or bleed.”

Antonio was told that only one in five people survive his condition, and there is a three per cent chance every year that Antonio might encounter a re-bleed.

The Stroke Foundation said there are several common risk factors which might bring on a stroke, but there are also several preventative measures that can be taken.

“The great news is that the things that we can do for stroke are the same things that help prevent heart disease and diabetes often and some forms of cancer,” Kevin said.

“The simple things are if you’re smoking, try to stop, reduce your alcohol intake, get a good routineofregularphysicalactivityandexercise as well as watch your diet.”

A unique point that Kevin said people usually don’t know about is watching your blood pressure.

“Peopleoftendon’tknowtheirbloodpressure, so it’s important to go to the pharmacist or local nurse or GP to check regularly.

“When people get their blood pressure checked and know what the actual numbers are, they can monitor that over time and are less likely to have a stroke that way.

“It is also important to learn F.A.S.T. (Face, Arms, Speech and Time) the signs of stroke with your family and friends.”

The Stroke Foundation said 25 per cent of people who have a stroke in Australia are

under the age of 55, and the rate of stroke in Australian adults aged 18 to 65 is rising.

The foundation said stroke is one of Australia’s biggest killers and a leading cause of disability.

Western Health neurology department chair

and stroke professor Tissa Wijeratne has been a stroke specialist for more than 20 years, and workswiththelargeststrokeserviceinwestern Victoria.

Dr Wijeratne highlighted the importance of brain health.

“Our brains are at a crossroads at this point intime,unfortunatelyoneintwoofuswillhave a brain condition whether we like it or not,” he said. “Sometimes we know it, sometimes we don’t know, other times it might be a stroke.

“The World Health Organisation said brain conditions that come from a stroke that make a disabled group of people is the leading contributor of disability.”

Antonio attributes his recovery to a strong mindset.

“With therapy and a healthy mindset, I internally draw on my strengths and find things that are therapeutic for me,” he said.

“For me, going into wellness and studying nutritionandexerciseaswellasfindinghobbies I like has helped the most.”

Following his stroke, Antonio continued his passion for music, learning music production, song writing and recording which he enjoys at his home studio.

“As well as music, my stroke has given me an opportunity to really sink my teeth into wellness, exercise, meditation, spirituality, nutrition and health.”

Antonio understands stroke recovery is different for everyone, which is why for the last nine years he partnered with the Stroke Foundation to deliver stroke awareness presentations.

“I learnt there is nothing better than to hear a story from someone who’s been through it rather than like a doctor or a nurse.

“Mostly, I tell people to surrender. I stopped trying to get back to who I was, and embraced who I was as this new person.

“Findsomethingthatmotivatesyouandfind a purpose for yourself.”

Antonio Iannella at his home studio.

(Jacob Pattison) 351948_01 (Jacob Pattison) 351873_03

‘‘ One in two of us will have a brain condition whether we like it or not. Sometimes we know it, sometimes we don’t know, other times it might be a stroke ’’ - Dr Tissa Wijeratne

PROFESSOR TISSA WIJERATNE

MY PLACE

Deer Park resident Steven Haar is a talented local who has acted in a range of Australian and international films. Mr Haar tells Hannah Hammoud about his work in the film industry and his connection to Brimbank.

Tell us a bit about you and what you do?

Growing up I always wanted to make people laugh, the joys of being a Three Stooges fan. It wasn’t until I was a teen visiting the cinema weekly that I wanted to be in movies.

In 2011, my first supporting role was in ‘Warrior’ directed by Steve Ravic from Majestic Film, who has cast me in all his films since. I’ve been appearing in projects locally and internationally ever since.

How did you get into acting and what is your most recent movie about?

I got into it out of luck. I saw a couple of ads in the paper looking for extras, so I applied. ThenIwentlookingonlineandgotworkthere.

Then answered another ad for what would be my first major supporting role, the film ‘Metal Warrior’ directed by Steve Ravic.

He became my mentor and has cast me in all of his films since. His most recent film is about people getting kidnapped off the street by thugs and forced to fight to the death for entertainment. The abductors then kidnap the wife of a retired world champion fighter in order to get him to fight.

What is the most challenging part of acting? Just trying to deal with overcoming stage fright whenever it comes on, as wetll as some personal insecurities.

What is your favourite part about acting? Not only getting the chance to entertain people, but the chance to also rub it in the face of people that told me it’ll never happen.

What is your connection to the Brimbank area?

I’ve lived in Brimbank almost my entire life and I can’t imagine myself anywhere else. I’ve travelled to France, USA, Croatia, Germany and Italy, all beautiful places that I visited, but

I still call Brimbank home. What do you love most about where you live? It’s grown on me. I can’t imagine living anywhere else. Brimbank, for good or bad, is a part of me.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.

I’mfascinatedwiththesupernaturalandwould love the chance to go ghost hunting one day. I got hooked on watching Ghost Adventures years ago and I find myself intrigued by it all.

every Saturday at Batman Park in the CBD. (Supplied)

On a mission to help

The Humble Mission is calling for food donations from Melbourne’s west to help meet demand for those who are experiencing disadvantage.

The Humble Mission was established in 2020 as a not-for-profit charity to provide support to individuals and families in crisis with the daily essentials of life.

The Humble Mission founder Shaymaa Elkadi said the food relief service is 100 per cent reliant on donations. As the cost of living crisis continues to hurt families across the country, Ms Elkadi said her charity is continuing to see growing numbers of people seeking food relief.

“We try to make sure every donation goes as far as it can,” she said.

“We are seeing an increase in numbers and that’s why we are calling out for help. We want this to be a grassroots initiative and we want people to donate and see where their donations are going.”

The charity accepts fresh food donations

along with non-perishable items that can be dropped off on Fridays from 5-8pm at 24 City Vista Court, Fraser Rise.

Ms Elkadi said the charity strives to operate in a way that empowers people. Food donations are collected and distributed at a weekly Saturday market where people can choose from the foods available.

“We encourage people to have choice, and we want to give them dignity … being in a position of disadvantage shouldn’t mean you don’t have choice,” she said.

“There is no dignity in waiting in a line for food, so we try to make the experience as least intimidating as possible. We want people to feel welcome to come back if they need to.”

Ms Elkadi is also putting the pitch out to businesses who would like to get involved and are willing to provide regular donations.

Details: https://www.thehumblemission. com/

Hannah Hammoud

The Humble Mission provides people enduring disadvantage with access to essentials like meals, groceries and toiletries,

(Damjan Janevski) 351316_04

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

August 10, 1983

Sunshine council health officers will be asked to prepare a report on last week’s fire in the McIntyre Road tip.

30 years ago

August 11, 1993

Councillor Ciro Lombardi is the new mayor of Keilor.

20 years ago

August 12, 2003

Brimbank council has pledged its commitment to the Sydenham Interactive LearningCentredisputedelayingthestart of construction to July next year.

10 years ago

August 13, 2013

Police and traders hope the addition of three CCTV cameras will reduce crime near Sunshine railway station.

YOURNEWCAREER ...startshere

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

The

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Sunshine Repair Cafe

Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Cafe in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.

■ sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082

Horseshoe Bend Community Group

The Horseshoe Bend Community Group is holding its annual general meeting on August 23 at 7pm at the Keilor Sports Club Recreation Reserve, 704a Old Calder Highway, Keilor. The meeting is to elect the new committee and for general business. ■ https://www.facebook.com/ hsbcommunitygroup/

Environmental grant writing workshop

The Teachers’ Environment Network (TEN) is running a free, professional development event for school staff to learn how to write a successful environmental grant application. All school staff, educators, teacher aides and playgroup leaders that live or work in Brimbank are welcome. The workshop will run on August 17, from 4-6pm at Visy Cares Hub, 80b Harvester Road, Sunshine. ■ https://shorturl.at/LVY14

Community consultation

Brimbank Neighbourhood Houses are inviting the community to share their ideas for what they would like to see from their local Neighbourhood House and community centres. An free, online session will take place on August 21 from 7-8pm. ■ https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ events/neighbourhood-houses-communityconsultations-0

Sunshine landfill community session

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is inviting the community to attend an information session on the Sunshine landfill issue. The community session will run on Thursday, August 17, from 5-7pm at the Kealba Hall, 24 McShane Drive, Kealba. ■ https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ events/epas-kealba-landfill-communityinformation-session

Al-Anon Family Groups

Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. The group meets every Wednesday at Sydenham Neighbourhood House from 1-2.30pm. New members are welcome.

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

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

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

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

Sunshine Community Brass

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

■ Andrew, 0419 444 620

St Albans senior citizens

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

■ Roma, 0435 991 064

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/

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

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

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

Melton Men’s Group

Melton Men’s Group meet every Thursday from 5pm to 8pm at Arnolds Creek Children’s and Community Centre, 19 Claret Ash Boulevard, Harkness. Focusing on Senior Men’s mental and physical wellbeing. Join the group for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including carpet bowls, pool or table tennis.

■ meltonmensgroup.home.blog

Take weight off naturally

Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Weight Off Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton.

■ Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739

Parkinson’s support group

The Melton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the second Thursday of the month 10.30am–12.30pm at Kurunjang Community Centre, 33-35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. New members and carers are 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 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

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

This weeks photographers choice picture is of dancers Lily, Liana, Saoirse, Jada, Hannah, Sienna and Fifi preparing for the Exford Primary Charity Gala. (Damjan Janevski) 351231

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

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 Contract part (6)

4 Thick cable (6)

10 Excel (5)

11 Journeyed (9)

12 Tropical fruit (9)

13 Donor (5)

14 Figure (6)

15 Impoverished (4)

19 Wan (4)

20 Modernise (6) 24 Detached (5) 25 Maritime mercenary (9) 27 Of lower status (9) 28 Finished (5) 29 Lasso (6) 30 Protects (6) DOWN

1 Cutting very short (9)

2 Self-government (8)

3 Retention (7)

5 One who evens the score (7)

6 Drivel (6)

7 Horsemen (6)

8 Straddling (4)

9 Victorian mountain range (7)

16 Had a small piece broken off (7)

17 Plant yielding fragrant oil (8)

18 Archipelago off the coast of Scotland (8) 19

DECODER WORDFIT

1 14

2 15

3 16

4 17

5 18

6 19

7 20

8 21

9 22

10 23

11 24

12 25

12 345678910111213

481327659

752169843

675813294 346295781

234976518 598731426

963458172

127684935

183276459

742861395

915723648

257194863 526317984

694538217 839645172

easy medium hard

368459721

471982536

3 TIMED TRIPE TROTS TYRES UNITE WANNA WEEDS 6 LETTERS CAMERA DRONED ORDERS TESTER

691432587

387921645

146578329

819542367 764895231

452786193 935214876

873159462 218367954

529643718

N ADORE ALIBI ALOUD AUNTS AWAIT BIPED CARES CASED CLOTS COMBS COVET CRUDE DITTO DOERS DOLES ERROR EVICT EXUDE GOOSE MACHO MATED

E I O R F 14 MEMOS MESSY MOURN NEWTS OLIVE OUTED REVUE RHINO RILED RIVET ROUGE SCREW SEEDS SENDS SIEGE SLEDS SPACE STEER STIRS SUEDE SUITE

emir, firm, firmer, form, former, forming, frogmen, from, germ, gnome, grim, grime, inform, informer, merino, mien, mine, miner, minor, mire, monger, more, morn, nome, norm, omen, reform, REFORMING, rime

1415 1617181920212223242526 M B U N D J W O R I E S F Q V H L A X C K T Y G P Z Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

No. 146

7 LETTERS BRITTLE DEPRIVE MURDERS PRECEDE UNNERVE WOWSERS 8 LETTERS CAUTIONS DESERTED DETAINED EXCERPTS

18-08-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

1 In what year will Halley’s Comet return to the solar system?

2 The comet’s namesake, Edmund Halley, was from which country?

3 The White Cliffs of Dover (pictured) are primarily what kind of rock?

4 On which continent is the pink river dolphin found?

5 What is the mineral predominantly mined in Coober Pedy?

6 Who starred as Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings films?

7 How many European countries are members of the openborders Schengen Area?

8 The River Lagan runs through which European capital?

9 Who was the other co-founder of Apple Inc., apart from Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs?

10 In which California suburb is Apple Park, the headquarters for Apple Inc.?

13 26 GZ ANSWERS: 1. 2061 2. England 3. Chalk 4. South America 5. Opal 6. Ian McKellen 7. 27w 8. Belfast 9. Ronald Wayne 10. Cupertino.

No. 146

No. 146

No. 146

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

12553448-JC23-22

General Notices

Planning and Environment Act 1987

BRIMBANK PLANNING SCHEME Notice of the preparation of an amendment Amendment C214

The Brimbank City Council has prepared Amendment C214 to the Brimbank Planning Scheme.

The amendment applies to all land in the municipality with the exclusion of land within the Sunshine Metropolitan Activity Centre.

The amendment proposes to implement the draft Brimbank Development Contributions Plan 2022 (Brimbank DCP 2022) by replacing Schedule 2 to Clause 45.06 (Development Contributions Plan Overlay) with a new Schedule 2 and inserting the Brimbank DCP 2022 at Clause 72.04 (Incorporated Documents). It also proposes minor changes to Local Planning Policy by inserting relevant objectives, strategies and reference documents at Clause 21.11 (Community and Leisure Facilities).

You may inspect the amendment, any documents that support the amendment and the explanatory report about the amendment, free of charge, at:

•the Brimbank City Council website at https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/building-and-planning/strategic-planningand-development/planning-scheme-amendments; and/or

•during office hours, the office of the planning authority, Brimbank City Council, 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine 3020. •the Department of Transport and Planning website at http://www.planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange a time to view the amendment documentation.

Any person who may be affected by the amendment may make a submission to the planning authority about the amendment. Submissions must be made in writing giving the submitter’s name and contact address, clearly stating the grounds on which the amendment is supported or opposed and indicating what changes (if any) the submitter wishes to make.

Name and contact details of submitters are required for council to consider submissions and to notify such persons of the opportunity to attend council meetings and any public hearing held to consider submissions. The closing date for submissions is 22 September 2023. A submission must be sent to the Strategic Planning Unit, (Brimbank City Council) PO Box 70, Sunshine 3020, by email to strategicplanning@brimbank.vic.gov.au, or by completing the online submission form at https://yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au/.

The planning authority must make a copy of every submission available at its office and/or on its website for any person to inspect free of charge for two months after the amendment comes into operation or lapses.

Kelvin Walsh Director City Development Brimbank City Council

BRIMBANK PLANNING SCHEME NOTICE OF AN APPLICATION FOR A PLANNING PERMIT

The land affected by the application is located at: LOT(S):168, 169 PLAN OF SUBDIVISION: 10758 ADDRESS: 31 POOLE STREET DEER PARK, 33 POOLE STREET DEER PARK

The application is for a permit to: REMOVAL OF RESTRICTIVE COVENANT 1378754 AS IT APPLIES TO LOTS 168 AND 169 ON LP010758

The applicant for the permit is: CHANGE OF PLAN

The application reference number is: P362/2023

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

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

•CONTACT CITY PLANNING ON 9249 4606 OR EMAIL info@brimbank.vic.gov.au, FOR A COPY TO BE POSTED

•BRIMBANK COMMUNITY AND CIVIC CENTRE, 301 HAMPSHIRE ROAD, SUNSHINE (Monday to Friday, 8:45am to 5:00pm)(unless closed due to Covid lockdowns)

The responsible authority will not decide on the application before: 30/08/2023

The Contact Officer is: Candy Chan, (9249 4598)

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority. Any comments received will be placed on the electronic file associated with this application and will be available for inspection.

An objection must be in writing and sent to the Brimbank City Council either:

•Online at www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/forms/planningobjection-online-form

• Email info@brimbank.vic.gov.au

• By post to PO Box 70, Sunshine, Vic, 3020

•In person at Brimbank Community and Civic Centre, 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine Objections must include details of the application you are objecting to, your contact details and the reasons for the objection. If you do object, the responsible authority will tell you its decision.

Planning & Environment Regulations 2015 (Form 2)

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Price an electric shock from Kia

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

Not before time, it’s a chance to dip a toe into theexpandingpoolofKiaelectricvehicleswith a stint in the Niro compact sports utility, albeit the top-of-the-range GT-Line.

And there looms the first obstacle: where the EV models open their account at $44,380, plus on-road costs, for the petrol / electric hybrid Niro HEV S, the full electric GT-Line sets back the buyer $72,100. That’s a big pile of dosh to step over.

And what do you receive in return?

The second-generation Niro has landed with a new look, new advanced technology, reworked powertrains, for the first time Kia Connect connected services, and what Kia claims is a 460-kilometre range.

Kia Connect is an intelligent remote-control app with functions including remote engine start, door lock control and remote climate control, as well as innovative in-car services such as destination and vehicle tracking and system status, valet parking mode, local points of interest and emergency call feature.

Kia Connect is covered over the full Kia seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty and is fully transferable.

The Niro EV has extended Kia’s vehicle bidirectional charging ability whereby the vehicle can not only receive power but supply it from its high-voltage battery. In this case the so-called vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability can be used to charge external devices such as laptops.

Damien Meredith, chief operating officer of Kia Australia, said the Niro represented a sizeable improvement over its predecessor, helping to bolster the Korean manufacturer’s local line-up of electrified vehicles.

Styling

There is no mistaking the new-look Niro EV GT-Line with its striking colours. The test car, for example, was Snow White Pearl with contrasting Steel Grey panels on both sides between the C-Pillar and rear.

Underpinning this post-modern patterning were unique jazzy 17-inch alloy wheels. Up front a compact LED light set-up combines headlamp, daytime running lights and turn indicators, while rear lights include an integrated aerodynamic design that cleans airflow to help improve illumination.

The styling is regular SUV stuff and in GT-Line is topped off with a panoramic sunroof and powered tailgate.

Charge points are not easy to find on some EVs. Not so here: access is via an instantly recognisableflapsituatedinthecentreofwhere an ICE radiator would normally live.

Interior

The new SUV platform translates to ample space inside the cabin, capable of taking up to five occupants in relative comfort. Faux leather trim extends to front heated and ventilated seats and two-spoke heated steering wheel.

Bigger than before, with every dimension but height increasing, seat and steering wheel adjustment are adequate for comfortable driving, while the rear bench is flat and can be firmonlongerjourneys.Legandheadroomare good.

The rotary transmission controller and push button motor start / stop switch share the centre console.

Boot space, accessed via a power tailgate, has taken a jump to 475 litres but with the seats down, 1392 litres is thirteen fewer than the old car.

An under-bonnet boot holds 20 litres and is home to the battery charging lead in a dedicated compartment, while the V2L plug is located in the base of the rear seat at hand for running laptops or other small appliances.

Infotainment

Two 10.25-inch screens take pride of place in the GT-Line’s digital dash - to the left speedo and the right a power metre. The other media and entertainment screen is packed with

features including an innovative display showing the power flow and the charge state of the battery.

There’s also a 10-inch colour head-up windscreen display, while an eight-speaker harman / kardon audio delivers quality DAB+ radio and also has USB Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s a wireless phone charging point up front

Powertrain

The Niro EV 150 kW electric motor is carried over from the existing car, Kia stating it now develops 255Nm - 140 Nm shy of the outgoing model without performance being compromised but range being improved. Drive is sent to the front wheels through a single reduction gear transmission, with the 64.8 kWh battery pack enabling a driving range of up to 460 kilometres, five kilometres more than the car it replaces.

Safety

ANCAP is yet to assess and crash-test the Niro so it does not yet have a rating. Eight airbags (dual front, dual side, dual curtain, driver’s knee and centre) feature across the Niro range. Active safety includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, forward collision warning, forward Autonomous emergency braking with junction collision avoidance,

Kia Niro HEV S: $44,380

Kia Niro HEV GT-Line: $50,030

Kia Niro EV S: $65,300

Kia Niro EV GT-Line: $72,100

SPECIFICATIONS

Kia Niro EV GT-Line single electric motor, single speed, FWD SUV

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

reverse AEB, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, reversing camera, forward and reverse cross-traffic alert, exit and rear seat occupant warning.

Driving

First impressions are the quietness of the car – from engine and wind to road surface noise – the result of advanced sound deadening material.

One of three drive modes – Eco, Normal and Sport – can be called up by means of a steering wheel-mounted button. Eco is largely forgettable, Sport is firmer but less economical,

while Normal is relaxed and in keeping with the car’s character.

With a factory claimed 16.3 kWh per 100-kilometre average fuel consumption, the test car recorded an accumulated figure of 14.1 kWh per 100 kilometres average over a week of mixed driving.

A top-up battery charge of around 20 per cent, to 80 pc on a public fast charger, took 40 minutes, pushing the car’s range to 300-plus kilometres. Cost was less than $6.

Kia conducted a full ride and handling tune for the second-generation Niro in Australia, making it the first vehicle from the Korean brand to receive steering map changes since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Steeringwheelpaddlescanbeusedtochoose between three levels of braking regeneration. The strongest is good in traffic and delivers a pretty good one-pedal driving experience.

The turning circle is a solid 10.6 metres and thoughtfully Kia has kicked in with a remote parking feature where the key fob can be used to start the car and roll it forward and back to fit in tight garages or shopping centre spots.

Summary

The Kia Niro EV GT-Line is fine on fuel economy, comfort, range and charging convenience. However, $70K-plus is a lot to step over before getting into the car.

Generational changes inside and out for Kia Niro electric SUV. (Pictures: Supplied)

Charlie Denaro set to finish up as Sharks coach

Hillside coach Charlie Denaro believes the time is right for a new voice to leave the Essendon District Football League division 1 club forward.

The Sharks announced on Wednesday that Denaro had informed the club he wasn’t seeking reappointment as senior coach next year due to work and other commitments.

Denaro took on the senior coaching role in late 2019, having previously been an assistant coach to Steve Burns.

Denaro said the timing was right for him to step away.

“I think that I’ve had a good run,” he said. “I think it’s time for a bit of a different direction and a new voice.

“The decision was made quite a while ago and I spoke to the club about my intentions.

“It was really hard as I love the club, but I believe it is the right thing to do.”

Denaro first started at the club in 2005 and has been a player, an assistant coach, a junior

coach, a senior coach, senior vice president, president and was awarded life membership in 2022.

He said he had seen many of the footballers at the club grow from kids through to senior footballers.

“A lot of the boys I have coached since under-14s,” he said.

“Tristian Rudic, Bailey Ryan are some that I’ve coached almost their whole careers. I’ve worked with the playing group a long time and seen them through the ranks.

“Seeing them develop and watch them grow as footballers and people has been a highlight.”

Denaro said after challenges the first couple of years when they lost a number of players and COVID-19, the club was now in a good place.

“Whoever takes on the role, the club is set up with a good list,” he said.

“We lost a lot of players and were able to stay resilient and progressed the last two years with our list with a couple of full seasons.

“We’re likely to get a little bit of reward with a crack at finals. I’ve started this journey and while there is still some unfinished business, we have ticked a lot of boxes.”

The Sharks barring a couple of big losses and a couple of big Craigieburn wins, have all but secured finals.

The Sharks will warm up for finals with clashes against second placed Deer Park and fourth placed St Albans, with the first of those clashes on Saturday, after deadline.

Denaroislookingforwardtothebackpartof the season and what it might bring.

“We want to win every game, nothing changes in that respect,” he said.

“We’ve got two massive challenges and we potentially have the same time in the last game and in the first final.

“We’ll continue to play footy for minimum two weeks. Hopefully, its three, four, five or six weeks.”

Falcons celebrate seventh title

By Tara Murray

It’s seventh heaven for the City West Falcons with the club winning its seventh Victorian Netball League championship title on Wednesday night.

Having won the last two championships in 2019 and 2022, the Falcons made it a hat-trick of wins with a hard fought win against the Boroondara Express.

The Falcons led by six goals at quarter time, before the Express started to take control of the game and led by two goals at half time.

For much of the third and early in the fourth quarter, it was goal for goal.

The Falcons regained the lead three minutes into the last quarter and they didn’t let it go. A strong defensive finish sealed a 60-54 win for the Falcons.

Falcons coach Marg Lind said they had to put everything out there to come away with the win.

“I think Boroondara really took it to us,” she said. “They obviously had nothing to lose and they had a great finals series.

“We justhadalittlebufferinthelastquarter.”

Lind said Boroondara changed things up in the middle quarters defensively to try and shut down Maggie Lind and Montana Holmes.

She said it worked really well, but they were able to adjust and get the game back on their terms.

“I think once we were able to free it up a bit, just let the ball go,” she said.

“We had Maggie coming long which helped and Montana getting a bit of ball deeper, where we were probably sitting in the pocket early in the second quarter that hurt.

“I thought Lucia [Fauonuku] made a really good difference in the last two quarters, pushing them up the court a bit and adding that transverse option and we swung the ball a little bit which put them off guard.”

Lind said defensively they did a really good job with everyone on court making a contribution.

Holmes was awarded the best on court medal.

Jane Cook shot 51 goals for the Falcons in a solid performance at goal shooter.

Sophie Hanrahan was another one of the stars in defence, particularly in the second half when she moved back into goal keeper.

Her performance wasn’t nearly to be though.

“There is a broken finger,” Lind said of Hanrahan. “It was 50-50 for her to even play, the finger was looking pretty good and splinted pretty well.

“Good on her. It was gutsy and that is what it takes to win finals.”

For the Falcons this is one of their hardest championships to win. While they didn’t lose after round one, there were many nervous moments with making sure they had all bases

covered for finals.

Lind said she still doesn’t know how they did it.

“It was tough and there was a lot of pressure thisseason,makingsurewehadenoughplayers qualified,” she said. “Kids like Molly Kennedy making the drive down from Shepparton to give us that extra midcourt, she didn’t get on tonight bit did a really good job.

“Credit to all the girls, It was hard concentrating on the World Cup, having to come back to the Falcons. It must have felt a bit surreal for some of them.

“Kim [Borger] was actually injured and probably couldn’t have played tonight anyhow,

but her presence and support was fantastic.”

FortheFalconsitwasn’talljoyonWednesday night, with their under-19 side falling short of defending their title losing to Melbourne University, 45-32.

Lind said the side was a bit wasteful and a bit nervous, but with many of them still 15, 16, they have a few years to come before they hit their straps.

Overall, Lind said it had been a successful season for them with all three teams making finals and walking away with one premiership.

“Great club effort for the western suburbs,” she said.

With the competition format changing after

this season, it’s an end of the era for the VNL as it is known.

Lind said that was something that they had reallyfocusedon.Co-captainMaggieLindalso made mention of it in her post game speech.

“We saw this as the last VNL game as is,” Marg Lind said.

“It was important to us and really important to me. I felt like we won the first one and we wantedtowinthelastone,notsomuchworried about back to back, more like the book ends, so we got there.”

“Up until tonight we had more premierships than all the clubs together, so we’re probably about square now which was a big effort.”

Tara Murray Charlie Denaro will stand down at the end of the season. (Supplied)

Left: Sophie Hanrahan takes an important intercept in the final quarter. Right: Montana Holmes was named best on court. (Pictures: Tara Murray)

The City West Falcons celebrate with their fans.

Lions tuning up to be fit and in form for finals

Deer Park is aiming to sharpen its game heading into the Essendon District Football League division 1 finals.

Having just about locked in a top two spot, the Lions are keen to make sure that they have everything in order for the pointy end of the season.

Lions coach Heath Scotland said he was looking forward to finals time.

“We’ve been building, but we certainly still have some work to do,” he said. “We’re preparing to be ready by finals time.

“It’s coming along nicely and we are settling the side more each week and the game plan is coming along.”

Scotlandadmitsthatithasbeenachallenging season so far despite the results showing just three losses by a total of nine points.

“We’ve used 40 players so far which is

extremely high for a side sitting second on the top of the ladder,” he said of the club’s first season in the EDFL competition.

“VFL [Victorian Football League] commitments, injuries and being a first year coach getting a look at the whole list.

“We’ve turned over a number of players, but we’re pretty settled on what our best side looks like, just week to week we’ve been unable to field it due to a whole range of issues.

“We’re set to settle it down in time for finals.”

The Lions were set to have more changes on the weekend, for the club’s side against Hillside, which was after deadline.

ToddEltonwassettomisswithfootsoreness.

Scotland said Elton would possibly be back the final round of the season, if not for finals.

Scotland said the side had been looking forward to the last two games of the regular

season against the Sharks and Rupertswood. The Lions can’t finish any lower than third on the ladder, having already secured a double chance.

Scotland said they wanted to play against some sides that would likely be playing finals. At this stage, the Lions will face Rupertswood twoweeksinarow,playingtheminaqualifying final.

“No disrespect, but we’ve played the three bottom sides the last three weeks,” he said.

“We want to build into games against some of the better sides, which will be a nice lead in.

“Last time we played Rupertswood we lost by one point. We want to sharpen our game and it’ll be good against quality sides.

“It’s a nice lead into finals.”

Palavi’s hectic schedule

By Tara Murray

From being one of the surprise packets at the Netball World Cup for Tonga, to virtually steppingoffaplaneandintoaVictorianNetball League grand final, it’s been a whirlwind few weeks for City West Falcons Uneeq Palavi.

It was a tired Palavi that stepped onto the court for the Falcons in the second quarter of the VNL grand final on Wednesday night, having only just flown back in from South Africa.

While she only played a quarter, Palavi was thrilled to cap off a big few weeks with the championships.

“It feels great I never doubted my girls,” she said. “I flew back in at 12pm and had a two hour nap and came straight here.

“It was adrenaline. I had a Red Bull before I came and it helped me along. Even though I didn’t get much court time, I’m still proud to be part of it.”

Palavi said the Tongan experience had been an amazing one and one that was still settling in.

Representing the country through her father’s heritage, Palavi had a breakout tournament which left fans watching at home in awe.

She finished fourth in the number of goals scored in the tournament which was led by Jamaican star Jhaniele Fowler.

The Tongan side finished in eighth spot, a remarkable feat considering they didn’t have a team last World Cup.

“It was so good,” she said. “It was so surreal getting to watch Australia, England, New Zealand and Jamaica and not only watching them, but being able to play against the same players.

“It was so surreal, I never thought I would get that opportunity.”

The biggest match for the Tongan team at the event was against Australia, which would ultimately claim the World Cup.

Palavi said it was a really good experience and it was something that she wanted to do again. The match had another highlight, getting to play with her sister Beyonce Palavi for the first time at the cup.

“It was so good it made me emotional,” she said. “The first few minutes we got on the court together for the Australian game, brought tears to my eyes, but I didn’t want to show it on TV.

“I waited until we got back to the hotel and I was a bit emotional.”

One of the highlights for the Tongan side was the combination of Pavali and former New Zealand international Cat Tuivaiti, who is now representing Tongan.

Tuivaiti, who is known for ‘showtime’ and excitement on the court, is one person that inspires Palavi.

“She has been my idol since I was under-17 state,” she said. “I remember in Adelaide for the nationals she was there playing [Adelaide] Thunderbirds that year and I took a photo with

Galofaro takes lead at Storm

New Sydenham Hillside women’s coach Michael Galofaro is keen to help the club’s women’s program further develop.

Galofaro has come through the junior ranks and was part of the club’s second XI last season.

When the opportunity came up to coach the women’s side, Galofaro said it was something he was excited to do.

“It’s something new for me, I’ve never done something like this before,” he said.

“I wanted to give it a go and I wanted to help the club out in a positive way.

“It’s a good opportunity to try it out as well.”

Galofaro said everyone had been really supportive since the announcement and he was keen to get started.

He said he would look to work closely with men’s coach Warren Hackney, who has previously coached the women’s side and instrumental in setting up the program.

“I’ll look to work with the girls that have been playing under other people and what has been working,” he said.

The club is keen to have two women’s sides again this season. Last season the Storm had one team in the Cricket Victorian Women’s Community Cricket Competition and one in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association.

The club will have a meet the coach day in the coming weeks and are hoping to get some new players on board.

Galofaro said having been at the club he already knows most of the team, but is excited to get to work with them on the cricket field.

For Galofaro, who will continue to play in the men’s competition, Sydenham-Hillside is the perfect place for someone to start or continue their cricket journey.

“Sydenham-Hillside makes sure that they work with what your needs are and are good at supporting everyone.”

Tara Murray

her and I was so starstruck.

“Playing with her now is so surreal, she’s still my idol, but my friend now. I’m going to add some of her stuff to my game, hopefully it looks as good as she does.”

Palavi said she was still getting messages about her performance on the world stage and it was a big push for her to keep going. She said the Falcons coaches in Marg Lind and Jacinta

Todd had allowed her to combine the VNL and World Cup and continued to push her.

Palavi said she’s hoping her performances might lead to some interest from Super Netball teams, with every position in the competition up for grabs in.

“Hopefully I get a few offers,” she said. “I’ve had quite a few offers from England but I don’t think I could move that far just yet.”

Tara Murray

Bailey Morrish. (Jacob Pattison) 343146_03

Uneeq Palavi. (Robbab Photography)

Michael Galofaro. (Supplied)

Gradual improvements is North Sunshine’s goal

Lifehasn’tbeeneasyforNorthSunshineinthe Western Region Football League division 3, with the side winless since its solitary victory in the 2021 COVID-impacted season.

Although with a new coach and president at the helm things are beginning to look up for the side, with a priority on fixing the club’s culture.

“This year we have been able to stay out of the papers with any nonsense, which has been great,” president Andrew Scimone said.

“Obviously last year we had a few incidents but this year has been great, we’ve had a firm policy where if something happens you [will be] punished.

“We’ve stuck to our guns as a committee, that’s been working, and the players are actually enjoying it.

“The scoreboard doesn’t show what improvements we’ve had but we’ve had a fair bit of improvement.”

With culture around the club on the up, Scimone has turned his attention to the playing list, hinting at plenty of list changes to come in the off season.

“Moving forward we’re looking good,” he said. “Hopefully next year we will be a bit more competitive, that’s our goal.

“We’re on the hunt for recruitment, trying to fix up the jigsaw puzzle.

“We’re trying to bring in another five or six next year.

“We’re looking for a stronger spine… and we’re looking for quick on ballers [and] pretty much a whole new midfield for next year.”

United’s hot start to Australia Cup campaign

By Harper Sercombe

Western United entered the Australia Cup with a bang as it seeks to venture deep into the competition.

On Wednesday night, United won in a dominant 4-0 display against New South Wales’, National Premier League side Edgeworth Eagles.

United advanced to the round of 16 stage where its next challenger is not yet known, with the match to be played later in August.

Western United started with a flurry of goals, being 3-0 up after the first 31 minutes of the game, with goals to Noah Botic, Michael Ruhs and Lachlan Wales, who went on to score a brace in the second half. The Eagles didn’t get an on target shot on goal and had only 31 per cent of the possession.

Star left back Ben Garuccio said it was nice to get some goals on the board early.

“It’s always good to get that first one out of

the way,” he said.

“These cup games can be tricky sometimes, so it was a good performance from the boys.”

United coach John Aloisi named four debutants in the starting line-up with goalkeeper Tom Heward-Belle, defender James Donachie as well as midfielders Angus Thurgate and Riku Danzaki making their first competitive appearances for the club.

After failing to make finals last season, off the back of a championship season in 2021-22, Garuccio said he thought the side was in need of some new talent and players.

He said it was good to see some fresh faces on the pitch.

“We bought quite a lot of younger players in as well which is I think really important for us, and then also bought in some good experienced players as well,” he said.

Brazilian star Daniel Penha was also signed by United in the offseason, via a one-year loan deal from Brazilian giants and parent club

Atletico Mineiro after departing Daegu FC last season, where he made 11 appearances for the Korean outfit.

With the season only about two months from kick off, Garuccio said preparations have been good with the new additions to the squad as they hope to launch back into the finals.

“There’s a lot of learning to do, a lot of gelling to do,” he said.

“I think it’s about just getting everyone on board and getting everyone to buy into what we want to do here as a club, but also for the way that we want to play.

“As a club that’s (finals) is where we want to be, that’s where we see ourselves.

“That’s what we need to be aiming for every year and I think definitely our team is more than good and capable enough to do that.

“The hard part is translating that onto the pitch and making sure that we are doing the right things that the coach wants us to do to get the results that we want.”

Although with a low base to build upon Scimone is realistic with the idea that it will take more than just the upcoming off season and the club may still be a few years off where they want to be.

The Roadrunners sit bottom in division 3 and have been beaten easily most weeks.

“We can turn it around pretty quick, it just takes time to gel and get a few players to all bond together,” he said.

“At the moment we are growing 10 per cent each year, so if we can grow 10 per cent next year we can probably get a few wins on the board.”

With only a game left in the season Scimone saidhewantstoseeonepercentimprovements weekly, which can help in the long run. The Roadrunners had a bye on the weekend.

“It’s going to be a battle but we will see how we go,” he said.

“We’re just trying to reduce margins from the last time we played them and just be more competitive.”

“It will all add up building into next year.”

Harper Sercombe

Sports shorts

Baseball

Sunshine Eagles are keen to reform a women’s side for the Baseball Victoria summer league season. After making a grand final in 2021-22, the club didn’t have a side last season. The club said on social media it had already had a lot of interest but needed to get a few more players to boost the numbers. No experience is required. Contact Phil Harris on 0409 820 065.

EDFL

Keilor has appointed Brooke Surgeon for the next two Essendon District Football League women’s seasons. “Brooke will continue to lead the senior women’s program for the next two years and since she began as coach we’ve continued to develop the women’s-girls programs from strength to strength,” the club said in announcing the appointment. “This includes more junior girls sides than ever before, reviving an under-18 girls side. The Blues were knocked out in the first week of the finals.

VTCA

Sunshine YCW has announced its second new signing for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 5 season. Noah Smith is a hard hitting all-rounder, who originally hails from Albury-Wodonga. Smith joins the club as an 18-year-old, with a bowling average of 14.72 and a high score of 93 in senior cricket. He joins Dilshan Kanchana in joining the club for this season as it hopes to return to the top four.

Coates Talent League

Western Jets are hoping to finish the Coates Talent League boys season on a high. The Jets have used more than 50 players this season and seen some real development in a few players, some who will be in draft contention. The Jets had a bye at the weekend and face the Greater Western Victoria Rebels this weekend. To find out more about the Jets season, go to https:// ow.ly/w3zR50Pwh9k.

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North Sunshine huddle. (Joe Mastroianni). 284231_10

Western United celebrating Wednesday’s win (supplied) 353248_01

Knights cruise through to round of 16 with a win

Melbourne Knights are through to the round of 16 in the Australia Cup after defeating Queensland National Premier League side, the Queensland Lions on Thursday night.

The match was hard fought early, with the Knights opening the scoring with a goal in the 23rd minute.

The Lions equalised quickly, scoring in the 34th minute, however, the determined Knights took back the lead only a minute later before scoring two more goals in the second half to give them a 4-1 win.

Knights coach Ben Cahn said he was happy with how his side opened their cup campaign.

“The Lions are a good side, I know a lot about them being in Queensland myself for the last five years,” Cahn said.

“Wewereexpectingatoughgameanditwas certainly tighter than the scoreline suggests.

“The (second) goal was really nice timing

for us, we were disappointed to let them back in after going 1-0 up. But to go up the other end and score almost immediately was really helpful for us.

“We defended resiliently and once we got the third it became quite comfortable.”

With a mixture of NPL and A-League teams left in the competition and the match ups not yet set out, Cahn said he is excited for what comes next.

“I think it’s one of the most exciting times of the year in Australian football,” he said.

“It’s a great chance for everybody to test themselves against teams from other states and other competitions.

“It’s really important to us that we’ve done well and we want to continue to go on.

“We’ll embrace the draw and we’ll be ready for whoever we get.”

However, the Knights don’t get much time

to celebrate their round of 32 triumph with a top four spot still in the NPL still on the line for the club.

Afterfinishingninthlastseason,tobeinthe top four and guarantee a home final would be a dream turnaround for the Knights.

“I think the priority now is to try and get that fourth spot. Once we go in (to the finals) it’s all about going in with a fit and fresh squad,” Cahn said.

“I’m very confident in the whole squad to be able to step up and do the job.

“If we can do that with some momentum, that’s fantastic. If not, as long as we’ve got everybody on board and our strongest team avaliable, and everybody’s in the right physical and mental space. We’ll be ready to go.”

Logan Morris selected for combine

Northern Knights duo Nate Caddy and William Green along with the Calder Cannons Jordan Croft and Western Jets Logan Morris have been invited to the AFL draft combine.

The AFL released the names of 61 playerswhohaveinvitedtothecombine, withselectiontoattendthecombinewas based on the number of nominations provided by AFL recruiters.

The three-day event will be held in Melbourne from October 6-8.

Club interviews and medical screenings will be conducted at the MCG on Friday and Saturday, with physical testing to be held at Margaret Court Arena on Sunday.

Physical testing will include vertical jump, running vertical jump, 20-metre sprint, agility test and 2 kilometre time trial.

AFL talent ambassador Kevin Sheehan said the combine provides another opportunity for players to showcase their ability ahead of this year’s AFL draft.

‘Pretty special’: Coach

Tara Murray

Three seasons of hard work has resulted in a second championship in as many years for Caroline Springs George Cross.

The Georgies were the dominant side in the FV state league 1 north-west competition before COVID-19 ended the season early in 2021.

They backed it up last year claiming the title and promotion into the National Premier League 3 competition for this season.

On Saturday, having already secured promotion into NPL2 for next year, the Georgies claimed the title with one round remaining.

Coach Eric Vasiliadis said it had been a remarkable feat for the club.

“It is pretty cool,” he said. “Obviously it is pretty special.

“I was reliving it the other day … You had the COVID season, so it’s been almost three seasons in a row that we have been winning games of footy of bringing happiness to the community.

“It has been a wonderful journey.”

The Georgies secured the championship in stunning fashion on the road against Ballarat City on Saturday afternoon.

The Georgies led 1-0 at half time after Josh Whiteley scored to put his side ahead.

Ballarat, which is seeking survival in the competition, was able to level the scores.

The game was headed for a draw with neither team able to find a second goal in regular time.

Enter Whiteley again to be the hero.

“It was immense circumstances,” Vasiliadis said. “We were missing four or five guys that have played a lot of football for us.

“To win in the 93rd minute is truly special. We try to think positive and control what you can control.

“The last five to 10 minutes we took into account the ladder and the risk-reward factor and we rolled the dice with five minutes to go.

“We only had three defenders on the field...

Josh Whiteley capped it off with a goal in the last minute.”

The win was the Georgies 14th in a row and their 16th for the season, to have them on 49 points heading into the final round.

Vasiliadis said they couldn’t have imagined this type of season at the start of the year.

“We controlled the controllables and we are so happy,” he said. “Every team comes out and tries and wants to achieve this.

“We were able to shrug off challenge after challenge and stay disciplined and stay together and we went on a roll.

“We will enjoy it, but I wouldn’t mind going back-to-back-to-back, that sounds pretty cool, but we’ll worry about it later on.”

The Georgies finish off their season on Saturday at home against Essendon Royals. The Royals, who were also promoted with the Georgies this season, have done enough to stay in NPL3 for next season.

Vasiliadis said this match was a really good opportunity to pay tribute to their supporters and the local community for their support.

“We just want to enjoy it,” he said. “You’re not often in these situations.

“You have to celebrate the good times.”

“The players invited to the 2023 AFL draft combine are considered by AFL club recruiters to be among the top prospects in this year’s draft pool,” he said.

“The combine will provide these young stars another opportunity to display their physical attributes during athletic testing. It also gives AFL clubs the opportunity to gain a better insight into each player during interviews.

“In many ways the combine is the final piece of the puzzle ahead of the upcoming AFL draft.”

The first 20 invitees for the state combines have also been announced, with further players to be added with further consultation with AFL clubs.

Caroline Springs George Cross celebrate the championship (Mark Avellino)

Logan Morris (Morgan Hancock/AFL Photos)

Harper Sercombe

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