Star Weekly - Northern - 15th August 2023

DIGITAL EDITION

Amazon jobs boom

By Laura Michell

A new Amazon Australia robotics fulfilment centre is expected to create 2000 jobs in Craigieburn when it opens in 2025.

The robotics fulfilment centre will be the second of its kind in Australia, following the launch of the company’s first site in western Sydney in 2022.

The fulfilment centre will be built at the Craigieburn Logistics Estate on Amaroo Road and will house up to 25 million of the smaller items that are sold by Amazon, according to the company. Amazon said employees at the centre will have the opportunity to work alongside advanced robotics.

The company said excavation works on the sitearealreadyunderway,withtheconstruction and fit-out stage of the facility expected to created an additional 2000 jobs for the area.

Onceopen,thesitewillofferadiverserangeof job opportunities, ranging from highly-skilled roles like IT, HR and engineering, to entry level roles with on-the-job training.

Amazon said the centre will span about 209,000 square metres across four levels, which it said is the equivalent to 11 Melbourne Cricket Grounds. Amazon Australia country manager Janet Menzies said the centre will offer the jobs of the future and the opportunity to work alongside advanced technology.

“The site will also help connect Victorian customers to local small and medium sized businesses, enhancing delivery outcomes and selection for customers in the state. We chose Melbourne as the home of our first fulfilment centre when we launched in Australia in 2017, and the introduction of this state-of-the-art robotics fulfilment centre in the city’s north continues our commitment here,“ she said.

Hume mayor Joseph Haweil welcomed the announcement.

“HumeCityCouncilisproudtobeadvocating for an innovative industry that will support our economy and job security for locals long into the future. “The size and scale of this project is unparalleled in Hume City, as are its economic benefitstoourlocals.NotonlywilltheAmazon robotics fulfilment centre create thousands of jobs and ongoing opportunities for local businesses to expand their services nationwide, the cutting-edge technology used at the site will ensure our community reaps these economic benefits for years to come.”

A spooky production

The Darebin Arts Centre will be transformed into the spooky home of the kooky Addams family ahead of opening night of the Hume Anglican Grammar’s latest production.

Sixty-four secondary students from the school’s Mt Ridley campus have been perfecting their lines, learning dance routines and music and creating sets ahead of the show, which will be staged on August 17 and 18, at 7pm.

Director Haylee Sommer said the school chose TheAddamsFamily for its senior production because it was “perfectly suited” to the talents of its students.

“This incredible event is the culmination of months of hard work from our wonderful students and team of dedicated and highly skilled staff, parents and volunteers who have come together to bring this show to life,” she said.

“We are enormously proud of our magnificent students and hope this year’s secondary production will be remembered in the hearts of both performers and audience members for years to come.”

Tickets: https://arts.darebin.vic.gov. au/whats-on/event-calendar/2023/08/ the-addams-family

Hume Anglican Grammar students: Treesha, Aria, Freddie, Logan, Stephanie, Harriet and Gurleen are ready to perfom in TheAddams Family (Damjan Janevski) 351861_01

Survey reveals crime concerns

Hume residents are most concerned about hoon driving, safety at night and burglaries and thefts, the results of a new survey reveal.

The police survey was completed by 362 Hume residents in May and June, providing police with a snapshot of the community’s safety concerns.

Releasing the survey results last week, Hume Inspector Dean Clinton said road safety, particularly hoon driving, speeding, burnouts and screeching tyres, was the top concern.

Rounding out the top three in Hume was safety in public spaces – particularly public transport and parks at night – with

residents citing concerns about youth offending, theft, robbery and street violence, and safety of property and possessions in relation to home burglary, theft and car break-ins.

Inspector Clinton said the top three areas of concerns were no surprise to police.

He said Hume police actively targeted hoon drivers through Operation Northern Lights, as well as running targeted operations on individuals known to be involved in intentional high risk driving.

Inspector Clinton said Hume police would continue to work with transit police, protective services officers and shopping

Shanae left stunned

Whittlesea’s Shanae Watson is still on cloud nine after stunning the judges and crowd on TheVoice Watsonwasn’tevenplanningonauditioning for the show, just there to support her dad Chris Watson, who decided to audition to inspire his daughter.

After hearing the story, Shanae Watson was back auditioning and all four judges turned their chairs, stunned with the realisation who she was.

Watson said it was still settling in that she had got through and was now on Guy Sebastian’s team.

“It’s pretty crazy even thinking about it,” she said. “I watch videos and I cry.

“I said yeah why not [to audition] not thinking it was going to be for this season.

“To be able to go and do this, it’s my one big

shot, I’ve been dreaming of it for so long.”

Watson said there were some mixed emotions with her dad not getting through, but he continues to be her biggest supporter.

“I feel bad for dad,” she said.

“As soon as I stopped, I started crying and looked straight at dad.

“He is the best dad ever and he’s so excited for me and he’s showing me comments himself.”

Watson,whohasbeensingingsinceshewas eight and did several performances through school, said she was going to make the most of that opportunity.

She said she would love to release her own music one day.

“I want to go for it,” she said. “Hopefully I can make some people happy with music.”

centre security guards to address the other concerns.

“Our neighbourhood policing team have run Operation Visible, Operation Trust and Operation Anvil at various time of the day and night.

“These operations provide a mix of highly visible and covert responses, to prevent, disrupt and respond to the concerns around safety in public and burglary,“ he said.

“We also conduct [person of interest] based tasking each week, where we manage high risk offenders, to hold them to account.

We have weekly patrols at our shopping centres and daily patrols and PSOs at

our transport hubs.

“In September we will be running Operation Leverage / OMNI to address concerns around the Broadmeadows hub.“

The survey also revealed that the overall feeling of safety in Hume had risen since 2022, with the municipality scoring 3.1 out of a 5, up from 2.9.

Inspector Clinton said that in the next 12 months, Hume police would work to improve responses to mental health emergencies, strengthen its work with the community around family violence, drugs, mental health and young people. and continue to tackle youth gangs, possession of weapons and knife-related crime.

Shanae Watson (Supplied)

Warehouse work begins

Construction on a major warehouse redevelopment at the Coolaroo Industry Park is officially underway.

The privately funded $41.5 million redevelopment will transform an existing 46,180 square metres of warehouse space into three different modern warehousing and office spaces.

Hume mayor Joseph Haweil was among those to attend the the sod turning on August 1.

Led by ESR Australia and Vaughan Constructions, the redevelopment is set to unlock new opportunities for investment and support continued economic growth in Hume and the wider Melbourne north region.

The creation of modern industrial and commercial space is predicted to attract new businesses to the area, allow businesses to upgrade from other facilities nearby and act as a catalyst for further redevelopment and investment in other sites nearby.

Once complete it is estimated the site comprised of three different warehousing spaces will sustain approximately 385 warehousing jobs, 128 office jobs and 337 indirect jobs that will be supported by the council’s economic development department’s Local Jobs for Local People Program.

On top of these ongoing opportunities the 11-month construction phase alone is estimated to support about 230 jobs, complementing the significant boost to employment coming to our region.

Councillor Haweil said council is so excited for the predicted economic benefits this major redevelopment will bring to Hume, particularly the creation of local employment opportunities for residents.

“As another chapter in our growing city’s continuedeconomicgrowth,wetrustoncethis redevelopment is finished the companies that choose to make the Coolaroo Industry Park their home will prosper in Hume,” he said.

Briefs

New cat rules

New cat regulations are in force in Whittlesea. Under the new regulations, all cats must be confined to their owner’s property or under effective control when outside, and newly registered cats will need to be desexed.

Meadow Heights men charged

Two men from Meadow Heights have been charged over an non-fatal shooting in Glenroy on Sunday, July 30. Police were called to an address on View Street, Glenroy, following reports of gunshots and an affray between a group of men. Investigators will allege two men inside the premises were shot at, and they subsequently armed themselves with knives and confronted the intruders. Two men aged in their 20s from Meadow Heights were taken to hospital to be treated for stab wounds. A 45-year-old Glenroy man and a 43-year-old Meadow Heights man, who were inside the property, were treated for non-life threatening gunshot wounds. A 22-year-old Meadow Heights man was arrested on Monday, July 31 while a 23-year-old Meadow Heights man was arrested on Tuesday, August 1 and charged with 18 offences.

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Hume mayor Joseph Haweil joins representatives of ESR Australia for the sod turn. (Supplied)

Healthy canteen options

Campbellfield Heights Primary School has added colourful and tasty items to its canteen as part of a statewide healthy eating initiative.

The school has joined Vic Kids Eat Well which aims to support schools, outside school hours care, sports clubs and community organisationstoboostthenourishingcanteen or lunch order options they offer.

Principal Susie Bellizia said the school joined the program to further support student wellbeing.

“We see our canteen as an opportunity for students to access delicious, healthy food and drink options so they can eat and feel well at school while they’re enjoying learning and playing,” Mrs Bellizia said.

Indigenous school names

Two Hume schools set to open next year have been given Indigenous names.

The state government announced the new names for Lockerbie and Merrifield South primary schools on Tuesday, August 1.

They are among 12 other new government schools opening next year which were given Indigenous names by the government.

Lockerbie Primary School in Kalkallo willbeknownasBanumWarrikPrimary School. According to the Victorian School Building Authority (VBA), Banum Warrik is pronounced bar-num warr-rik and are Woi-wurrung words of the Wurundjeri people meaning grassy plains.

Banum Warrik Primary School will welcome up to 525 students when the first stage of the school is complete.

Canteen manager and parent Jess Nahas said the school navigated the canteen improvements as part of Vic Kids Eat Well with the help of DPV Health senior health promotion co-ordinator Adele Chenoweth.

“We’ve done simple things like offer fresh salad wraps for students who want to try something other than a bread roll –this was based on student feedback. Our new baked chicken burgers are bestsellers too. They feature lite cheese, lettuce and the option to add fresh tomato. We also offer students free whole fruit and sell popcorn and packaged fruit cups,” Mrs Nahas said.

We’ve been able to showcase our nutritious

menu to families who can easily pre-order online, knowing their kids have freshly-made options at school.

Student Shamoon said the salad wraps at the canteen were his favourite because they give him they energy he needs to learn, while Aisha said eating the healthy food on offer made her feel joyful.

Ms Chenoweth said the school has been

highly engaged in Vic Kids Eat Well.

“We’ve focused on easy wins with Vic Kids Eat Well by adding crunchy, fresh veggies to the school’s canteen offerings. I love that they’ve had student input into the canteen changes. Their canteen manager Jess has been really eager and their principal embraces opportunities to boost what’s on offer for her students,” Ms Chenoweth said.

Merrifield South Primary School in Mickleham will be known as Yubup Primary School. Yubup (pronounced you-boup) is a Woi-wurrung word of the Wurundjeri people meaning parakeet, according to the VBA.

The school will welcome up to 650 students once the first stage is complete.

The government said that for the first time, the 2024 new school naming process consulted on a short-list of Aboriginal language names, receiving more than 7000 submissions.

Education Minister Natalie Hutchins said the new schools will ensure growing communities have local education and an “unique connection to the land” through their Indigenous names.

Campbellfield Heights pupils Aisha and Shamoon. (Ross Calia)

‘‘ We’ve done simple things like offer fresh salad wraps ... this was based on student feedback ’’

- Jess Nahas

Cats surrendered following raid

Nearly 70 felines were surrendered from a Hume residential property after concerns wereraisedbyneighbourstoRSPCAVictoria, The RSPCA’S inspectorate executed a warrantandnegotiatedthesurrenderof67cats and kittens after information was provided to them that there was approximately 12 cats living in poor living conditions.

However upon executing the warrant it became clear the situation was much worse.

“Wewereoriginallyalertedtothisproperty after neighbours raised concerns regarding

the smell coming from the house and the number of cats seen through the windows,” RSPCA Victoria north-west region team leader Karen Collier said.

“Upon arrival the ammonia levels from cat urineinthehousewere25ppm[whichrequires PPE clothing and limited exposure] it was so strongitwasstingingoureyesandnoses.

“The house was covered in cat faeces, with rubbishpiledthroughoutthehouse,including a number of deceased animals.

“It’soneoftheworstexamplesofunsanitary

Calling all nature lovers

Whittleseanature-loversarebeingencouraged to apply for a 10-week course dedicated to protecting the natural environment.

Run by the Victorian National Parks Association in partnership with Whittlesea council, the Nature Stewards spring program aims to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to care for the environment.

Under expert guidance, Nature Stewards study a range of topics including local ecosystems, plants and caring for native animals.

During this introductory educational program, you will be able to connect with your community and discover more about your local environment with hands on experiences. Field trips into bushland areas, such as Quarry Hills Parkland, will teach practical techniques and offer valuable experience that may lead to future volunteer opportunities.

Mel, who participated in last year’s

Nature Stewards program, said the program exceeded all their expectations, providing a broad range of knowledge and experiences across environmental topics.

“Highlights for me were learning about ecological burning practises, First Nations knowledge and care for country, forest bathing and the benefits of connecting with nature, and how to communicate climate change science confidently and effectively,” Mel said.

“The field trips were a fantastic way to see the activity and results of conservation actions and a great prompt for discussion around challenges and opportunities in prevention, rehabilitation and revegetation. After completing the course, I feel more connected to my local area and have the confidencetocontributepracticalvaluetomy local volunteer organisations.”

Applications close Sunday, September 3. Details: www.outdoorsvictoria.org.au/ nature-stewards.

conditions we’ve seen with many of the 67 animals suffering health conditions ranging from emaciation, ear infections, ringworm and panleukopenia virus.

“It’s an incredibly sad situation where the person in charge of these cats was unable to provide a clean and sanitary environment including providing adequate food, water, and veterinary care.”

Investigationsintothisincidentareongoing, however investigators suspect that these cats maybelinkedtoanillegalbreedingoperation.

The animals are now receiving treatment and care while RSPCA Victoria investigates further.

It’s an offence under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 (POCTAA) to load, crowd or confine an animal in a manner where the loading, crowding or confinement causes or is likely to cause pain or suffering to theanimal.

Anyone found guilty of such an act can face fines of up to $48,077.50 or 12 months imprisonment.

part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re continuing works

around Melbourne and to the airport quicker and safer.

for the Whittlesea Nature Stewards spring program. (Supplied)

Walking Thomastown will feature a variety of performances. (Supplied)

Thomastown to light up

Get set to light up the night with the return of the much-loved community illumination event, Walking Thomastown next month.

The event, which is run by Whittlesea council and the Thomastown Precinct Action Group, will be held on Saturday, September 2, from 6-9pm.

The walk was originally planned for May but was postponed due to bad weather.

Participants will walk through the heart of Thomastown, experiencing its unique character, rich heritage, and diverse cultural background.

Theeventwillfeatureanarrayofbreath-taking light installations, sculptures, art, live music, magicians, performances, soundscapes, and family-friendly entertainment.

Whittlesea council chair administrator Lydia Wilson said council was thrilled to be

able to bring back Walking Thomastown.

“Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of street art, or wanting a family night out, come and join us on a journey through the area’s hiddengemsandenjoythefun-filledprogram,” she said.

Live performances at five separate spaces along the 1.6 km walking route include a performance by the award-winning Neon Ngargee; a collaborative dance, directed by Amos Roach and performed by the Murrndaya Yepengna Dancers.

Neon Ngargee is a celebration of Kulin Nations dance and songs, combining the traditional with the contemporary. Dancers are painted in neon colours and ochre and dance under black lights. “Ngargee” means a gathering for celebration and the performance invites the community together to witness the

Grants are now open

Community groups and programs are set to receive a funding boost with the new Whittlesea community grants program opened on August 7.

Whittlesea council said the new program comes with a simpler and more inclusive application process with grants open all year and assessed monthly and quarterly.

Council’s chair administrator, Lydia Wilson, said the new program also included a boost in funds.

“We have this year endorsed a 33per cent increase in total community grants funding in response to community need,” she said.

“We want to support the brilliant efforts of groups and individuals delivering programs, activities and events that enrich our local community.

reconnectionofSonglinesthroughsingingand dancing on country.

Other exciting performances include magic shows as part of a mini carnival at the Westgarthtown Historic Precinct, live music at Ziebell’s Farmhouse Museum and Heritage Garden, with youth performances and community dances at Thomas Street Recreation Reserve and Playground.

“The amazing array of music, magic, dance and visual art showcases the local talent from within the Thomastown community and across the City of Whittlesea,” Ms Wilson said.

The event will begin at 6pm at Main Street Recreation Reserve with the journey going along Edgars Creek to the pioneer precinct at Westgarthtown and finishing at Ziebell’s Farmhouse Museum and Heritage Garden. Details: arts.whittlesea.vic.gov.au.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the projects funded through community grants coming to life.”

The new grants program also includes emergency grants and has already opened applications to food share organisations in response to the impacts of cost-of-living pressures.

The new program offers six grant categories: small, medium, large, individual, unincorporated groups and emergency grants.

Details: www.whittlesea.vic.gov. au/grants or community.grants@ whittlesea.vic.gov.au

Art Show

Modern over 50s living, comingsoontoMickleham.

Kolbe academy scoring baskets

By Tara Murray

KolbeCatholicCollege’sBasketballAcademy might be still in its infancy, but it’s making an impact on the state stage.

The academy started in 2021 and despite the setbacks of COVID-19, the academy has thrived in the journey to become the ‘basketball academy of the north’.

In June, the school’s junior girls’ team claimed the under-15 division 2 Victorian College Championships, before the senior girls won the division 2 3x3 state title at the Basketball Victoria 3X Cup last month.

Basketball Academy head Daniel Nolan

said it was exciting to see the teams having this success.

“We’re extremely proud of the program and the basketball academy has been going the last few years.

“The senior girls were able to beat Box Hill and the junior girls were able to win the 5X5 division 2 state championship in June.

“These are definitely the highlights for the academy so far.”

Nolan said that planning for the academy started before 2021.

There were a lot of online sessions early on due to COVID-19 as they tried to keep all the students engaged and helping the players skills continue to get better.

From there it has grown.

“We have a subject in the curriculum now,” he said. “We do fitness testing, we have expert coaches.

“There’s a vision led by the leadership group and the principal in Nick Scully to achieve some goals, and come the state championships we did.

“We want to be known as the basketball college of the north. We want to put Kolbe on the map.”

Nolan said many people hadn’t heard of the Greenvale-based school at the state championships, but he was hoping that was starting to change.

As well as the girls teams winning state

titles, they had boys teams made the state championships in the normal basketball format.

He said the next challenge was to start challenging the best schools across the state, not just the north.

Withtheschoolexpandingtohaveanother campusin2026,Nolansaidtheywerehoping to expand the basketball program as well.

“There are no limits.”

Applicationsarenowopenfortheacademy for next year.

To apply, https://ow.ly/9L2s50Prv2R or for information, dnolan@kolbecc.catholic.edu. au or 8339 3060.

Senior girls team. (Basketball Victoria)

Junior girls team. (Supplied)

Heritage Care takes pride in providing the best of care

Heritage Care is embracing a new era in aged care, with new ownership and management.

Responding to new Commonwealth government mandated requirements in the sector, the company is ensuring it provides the right workforce, technology, environment and resources to deliver the very best of care for older Australians.

Heritage Care is the owner-operator of 11 aged care homes across Victoria and New South Wales offering permanent and respite care with memory support services in selected residences.

Amid the sweeping changes to the aged care industry, it is preparing for the future with wholesale changes of its own.

Broadlyspeaking,theregulatorychangesare designed to compel providers to deliver higher quality care, with easier access to services for residents and their families. Some of the most important changes are a mandatory minimum of 200 care minutes per resident per day, requirements for a registered nurse onsite 24 hours, seven days a week (which Heritage Care has always provided as a matter of policy), greater online transparency of information concerning care provided and strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards.

The standards place further emphasis on the resident by prioritising dignity and choice, driving collaboration with residents and families on care planning, individualised personal and clinical care, daily living support to optimise residents’ independence, ensuring the environment is safe and comfortable and that resident and family feedback is addressed appropriately.

Heritage Care supports these reforms and is actively implementing current standards to a higher level in readiness for future change.

“To demonstrate the impact of the new leadership team and its commitment to

achieving and maintaining high standards throughout the organisation, eight of our homes were subject to reaccreditation audits in the space of 12 weeks,” said John Rutledge, chief executive of Heritage Care.

“All the homes were reaccredited with 100

per cent all-met status against the standards. In addition, our recently acquired home Twin Parks was reaccredited during a transition period. In the coming months and years, we’ll continue to focus on the service we provide for residents. And to invest in our employees who

are tasked with ensuring the highest standard of delivery for some of the most vulnerable in our community.”

For more information contact Electra Tounis, 0410 594 710.

Kathy Warren, head of group operations, Ailiene Faccin, residence manager at Heritage Northcote and Julio Castillo, residence manager at Heritage Epping. (Supplied)

Seize the day and embrace a new, liberating lifestyle

In the quiet whispers of time passing, there lies a profound truth that we often overlook – the ephemeral nature of moments, like fleeting butterflies, flutter by, leaving us with memories etched in the sands of time.

Life’s journey is a dance of choices and opportunities, a symphony of chances that beckon us to take hold of the reins. Among these,awhisperurgesustoembracethechange thatawaits–adownsizerhome,asanctuaryfor a new chapter.

Picture it, if you will – a charming haven tucked away from the hustle and bustle, where the weight of unnecessary possessions fades away. The clutter that once weighed upon your shoulders will find solace in the arms of benevolent charity, making space for cherished treasures and memories to blossom.

Inadownsizerhome,timefindsitselfagentle master, and moments of joy, love, and laughter aresavouredlikefinewine.Thedaysofmowing vast lawns and maintaining unwieldy spaces will be replaced by a manageable sanctuary, where you’ll find more time to bask in the warmth of cherished company.

You will find a newfound sense of liberation. Letting go of the past, you’ll embrace the present with arms wide open.

The shackles of maintenance yield to the freedom of exploration, travel, and adventures that await your eager heart.

Seize the day and make way for the winds of change.

By choosing to downsize at Lifestyle Communities, you’ll discover the art of appreciating a life well-lived, where every day is cherished.

Book the tour today on 1300 50 55 60.

Downsizing has never been easier at Lifestyle Communities. (Pictures: Supplied)

Supported camping experiences that maximise fun

Giving everyone the opportunity to travel and experience active recreation is a key priority fortheYwhichoperatesanumberofdisability camps across Victoria for people of all ages.

The profit-for-purpose organisation, which is also a Registered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider, has workedinthedisabilitysectorforover30years across 1:1 support, group programs, NDIS support co-ordination and school holiday programs.

Specialising in person-centred, supported camping experiences that maximise fun, the Y’s disability camps provide a unique opportunity for participants to engage in activities that cater to their specific needs and abilities. These activities are designed to build physical, emotional, and cognitive skills while accommodating individual differences. From outdoor sports to creative arts, campers are encouraged to explore new interests and develop talents in a safe and encouraging setting.

“Y camps are just so much fun” explains Toni Thatcher, Y camp director.

“Nearly every weekend we head off on camp to wonderful locations across Victoria. Each camp location provides different experiences and activities for the participants to enjoy and try something new. Weather that be snow camp, city camps, locations near the beach or our new Y Retreats where we visit music festivals, go glamping or even to the Grand Prix”

Y Retreats, a new boutique camp offering, was built off the back of client feedback. They empower campers to have the choice and control over what their weekend away looks like whilst ensuring all activities are accessible and inclusive. Everyone can participate in their own way while learning and sharing the experience with others.

“We have taken the participants’ lead in designing camping experience which are more unique.” said Toni. “These specialised camps provide an

enriching and individualised experience by offering tailored activities, fostering a sense of belonging, nurturing self-confidence and most of all having fun.”

To enquire about Inclusion Services by the Y’s camp programs please call 1300 699 622 or visit inclusion.ymca.org.au.

A support worker and participant enjoying the giant swing on Y disability camps repeat in the sunbury (supplied)

Aches for public dental sector

Residents in the north requiring public dental care may need to grit their teeth, with average wait times climbing to 25.4 months, according to data obtained by the Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch (ADAVB).

The ADAVB obtained data under freedom of information from Dental Health Services Victoria shows the wait time to access general dental care at DPV health rose 0.4 months since December.

The statewide wait time had also risen 0.4 months in the same period to 16.4 months.

ADAVB president Jonathan Teoh said

long waiting times for dental care can lead to worsening problems resulting in the need for emergency care.

The ADAVB reports that one third of all courses of care are for emergency treatment rather than routine and preventive care.

“A lot of dental diseases are progressive in nature, and so we know that the longer people are waiting for care, and the longer you leave it, the worse it is going to get,” Mr Teoh said.

“If you leave a hole in your teeth for a long period of time, it is only going to get bigger. If we get to things earlier, then we might be able to save peoples teeth instead of having to

Celebration of language

St Monica’s College students took part in a Zorba dance-off, enjoyed international treats and watched a languages movie festival as part of languages week earlier this month.

The week was designed to highlight the choiceoflanguagesavailableattheschool,with students able to study French, Greek, Italian, Japanese and Spanish.

The week-long celebration also featured the SMCOlympicGameswhichinvolvedcountries competing in different sporting events throughout the week, while representatives from the Greek, Japanese, Spanish, French and Italian consulates also visited the school.

Principal Brian Hanleysaid languages are an important part of our curriculum.

“We work hard to offer a wide choice of languages at St Monica’s College. We add to that a range of incursions and excursions as wellasoverseasexperiencestoenhancestudent learnings,“ he said.

Languages faculty leader Maryanne Theodosis said: “The languages curriculum at our college is very unique. Our work as language teachers does not end in the classroom. It continuously instils and inspires lifelong love and passion for languages where thestudentscontinueourlegacyforgenerations to come. We were honoured to have welcomed our esteemed guests and have the opportunity to share, and further broaden our languages program, with them.”

remove them. Losing teeth is going to impact not just peoples dental health, but it will also impact their wellbeing and more broadly their ability to participate in society.”

Mr Teoh said that without further ongoing investments into the public sector, he predicts that the waiting time for public dental care is only going to rise.

“We had some injection of funding in the public sector post-COVID that has certainly been welcome. However, inevitably waitlists are going to creep up after that point as the system does not have enough capacity to meet the needs of the population” he said.

DPV Health chief executive Don Tidbury said DPV Health is committed to supporting all people to access services in a timely manner. “Over the last year DPV Health has expanded its dental workforce to support community needs and is working closely with government and other agencies on strategies to expand dental services and strengthen dental workforce development opportunities.

“To respond to population growth, DPV Health is planning to grow its dental service capacity by at least 20 per cent, with new chairs scheduled to open in 2025.”

St Monica’s College students and staff celebrated languages week. (Supplied)

Apps causing driver distraction

By Zoe Moffatt

Mobile phone apps are now the biggest distraction to people who use their phones while driving, with police noting an uptick in offending with apps like YouTube or Facebook in Hume.

NewTransportAccidentCommission(TAC)

data from a survey of 2492 Victorians and found that 45 per cent of respondents admitted to interacting with an app while driving. Fifty-two per cent said they used a mobile phone in their hands, including 26 per cent who said they made or received a call, and 25

per cent who sent or read a text.

Road policing and community engagement InspectorDarrenPatersonsaidwhiledetection rates remain at the same level in Hume, there has been a swing towards app usage in recent years.

“The type of offending has changed in recent years with a swing from phone calls to using apps like YouTube or Facebook,” he said.

“In the mornings offending drivers are often intercepted ‘listening’ to the news whilst a video is playing in an approved cradle.”

Inspector Paterson said the new data is not a surprise and drivers need to be aware of the

Hume student shines

Hume Anglican Grammar’s vice-captain Saatvik Sehgal has recently been honoured with the Premier’s VCE Award for his outstandingacademicachievementsinsystems engineering.

The award was presented to him at a formal ceremony held on Thursday, July 27, to recognise top-performing students who excelled in their VCE study scores.

Saatvik, who achieved a remarkable study score of 50 in systems engineering, was one of only three students in the state to receive this award for systems engineering.

Saatvik, who has always been passionate about creating things using basic components, said he was very happy he was recognised by a state wide body for his hard work over the past two years.

“I am so overjoyed that my hard work throughout the last two years has been recognised. I have always had a passion for

creating things using basic components. It’s somethingIhavepursuedsinceyear8,”hesaid.

Hume Anglican Grammar said it was proud of Saatvik’s extraordinary academic success, especially considering that he achieved top results while studying as a year 11 student.

“Our students are dedicated and passionate about their studies and that same dedication and passion is shared by our wonderful staff. We are extremely proud of Saatvik’s academic achievement,” principal Bill Sweeney said.

Saatvik is currently studying year 12 and hopes to pursue a career in an engineering discipline such as mechatronics.

“My dream role would be leading a project in the space industry, as I love the idea of space exploration,” he said.

risks they are placing themselves and all other road users at.

“A large proportion of our enforcement data suggestthatmobilephoneusecontinuestobea heavily identified offence.

“Even with legislation changes surrounding the use of mobile phones in vehicle, we have seen little decline in the detection of these offences.

“Distraction offences contribute to varying types of collisions that ultimately could have been avoided.

“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility and the road toll this year is having a devastating

impact across our community.”

This new data is released amid a tragic year on Victorian roads with 175 people killed so far, which is 36 higher than the same time in 2022.

The state government has increased the penalties for using a mobile device while driving to a $577 fine and four demerit points. New mobile phone and seat belt wearing detection cameras have also been introduced throughout the state to reduce road trauma. Inspector Paterson said operations in cars, foot and on bike patrol will continue to run to detect distracted drivers.

Robot hits road upgrade

A high-tech robot has joined the Craigieburn Road upgrade on the front line to make the job of surveyor’s line marking the road easier and safer.

Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) said the state-of-the-art three-wheeler will help surveyors complete work more safely without the strain of bending over to mark dots on the road next to live traffic and allow the line marking of the road to be carried out more efficiently.

The robot – about the size of a domestic lawnmower – will ensure surveyors on the project continue to have the best equipment, and the flexibility to respond to the evolving challenges of road construction, MPRV said.

Dubbed the ‘TinySurveyor Terra’, it is equipped with advanced GPS and automation technology to deliver precise, reliable measurements faster than traditional methods and can autonomously paint extremely precise points, with accuracy of between one and three centimetres.

MRPV and construction partner Fulton Hogan have invested in the surveying technology, which saves surveyors countless hours of manual work and minimises risks to

human safety on site.

On the Craigieburn Road upgrade, the robot has been completing surveying activities in about one-fifth of the time that it would normally take to do the job on foot.

This has helped keep surveyors out of the elements and away from live traffic – getting the job done more efficiently, MPRV said.

A major factor of its use is that the surveyor is more situational aware, without the need to constantly look down to the screen attached to the survey device.

The TinySurveyor Terra has been online since July with other similar type robots to hit the beat later this year on other road projects, including the nearby Sunbury Road upgrade.

MPRV senior project manager Dimuth Gammampila said the next-gen surveying robothasquicklybecomeanimportanttoolfor the Craigieburn Road upgrade.

“Our surveyors are able to be so much more efficient with this newer and technologically advanced robot, as part of our investment to give our team the resources they need to work safely in all areas of construction.”

TheCraigieburnRoadupgradeisexpectedto be completed in 2025.

Saatvik Sehgal with his award. (Supplied)

Harper Sercombe

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

10 years ago

August 13, 2013

Abdi Aden enjoys his new life after escaping from Somalia’s killing squads in 1991 when many of his companions were gunned down. He has a heartfelt plea for Prime Minister Kevin Rudd about boat people. “No one flees their country unless they have to,” the Craigieburn father of three says. “No one sets out on the ocean to die. Boat people must be desperate to brave rough seas; they must be escaping persecution.”

7 years ago

August 23, 2016

More Northern Health patients will be able to have surgery closer to home – and sooner – with a $17.3 million upgrade of Broadmeadows Health Service due to start.

5 years ago

August 14, 2018

Students at Edgars Creek Secondary College are being taught in an unfinished school, according to the school council.

1 year ago

August 23, 2022

Hume council is calling on the state government to take action to stop “land banking” by developers amid concerns it is driving up house prices.

NEWCAREER ...startshere

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

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Mending workshop

Do you have clothes or textiles that need mending but you have no idea where to start, how to do it or even the tools to even attempt to mend them? Take part in a basic mending and textiles repair workshop on Saturday, August 19, at Janefield Community Centre, 2 Manchester Crescent, Bundoora, from 10am-1pm, to learn some mending skills. Topics covered include button repair, sewing a patch onto clothes and tonal mending. All attendees will receive a travel sewing kit and reference materials to take home. Registration essential.

■ https://events.humanitix.com/basicmending-and-textile-repairs-cow-resilientcommunities-workshop-series

Read, Play, Connect

Join other families for a Read, Play, Connect session at Galada Community, 10a Forum Way, Epping, on Wednesday, August 23, from 10.30am-noon. The event will feature story time, games and activities for children.

■ https://www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/984064

Pool party

Dive into FReeZA’s Purple Pool Party at Mill Park Leisure Centre, 33 Morang Drive, Mill Park, on Saturday, August 26, 6-8pm. There will be a DJ, pool games, prizes, giveaways and free food and drinks. Recommended for young people aged 12-18.

■ https://www.trybooking.com/CJVHE

Business network

Join the City of Whittlesea Business Network at Slices Restaurant in Doreen for a morning of networking on Thursday, August 24, 9-11am, at 1/80 Hazel Glen Drive, Doreen. Event exclusive to business network members. To join, email: business@whittlesea.vic.gov.au. Registration required.

■ https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/cityof-whittlesea-business-network-tickets674917896597?aff=oddtdtcreator

Coffee with council

Enjoy a coffee with Whittlesea council on Tuesday, Augsut 29, 1-2.30pm, at BASE Cafe, shop 53/400, Westfield Plenty Valley, McDonalds Road, Mill Park. ■ whittlesea.vic.gov.au

Meditation

Take part in a blissful 45-minute journey into relaxation and inner peace during a deep peace guided meditation session at Greenvale West Community Centre, 7 Ventura Way, Greenvale, on Thursday, August 17, 6.15-7pm.

■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/ Eventbrite/Deep-Peace-GuidedMeditation-686340180957#

Science week

Celebrate Science Week with Hume Libraries at Greenvale West Community Centre, 7 Ventura Way, Greenvale, on Friday, August 18, 11.30am-12.30pm. There will be a special science-themed story time with an experiment at the end. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Science-Week-Celebration-at-GreenvaleWest-Community-Centre-686993675577#

Tree mulching

A tree mulching day will be held in Craigieburn on Sunday, August 20, from 9.30am-2.30pm, at Craigieburn Service Depot, 153 Craigieburn Road. A maximum of four cubic metres of clean, freshly cut, tree branches will be accepted for mulching. You will also need to bring proof of Hume residency, such as your rates

notice or driver’s licence, to participate in the service.

■ hume.vic.gov.au

Understanding cannabis

Gain an understanding of cannabis and its risks, and explore strategies to support communication with your child and increase their safety during an online session organised by Hume council on Thursday, August 31, 7-8.30pm. Registration essential.

■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Understanding-Cannabis-Supporting-YourTeen-653449353607#

Creative arts and fitness

Banksia Gardens Community Services is running yoga and jewellery making classes every Tuesday.

■ 9309 8531

Craft and Conversation

Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday weekly craft group from 1-3pm and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends.

■ humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park

Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday from 11.30am-1pm at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park.

■ www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/

Roxburgh-Park-Homestead-Communityand-Learning-CentreWeekly-CommunityLunch-317411976767

Tai Chi for health

Come along to Homestead Community and Learning Centre in Roxburgh Park for a lesson in tai chi, a low impact exercise program to build strength. Everyone is welcome. It’ll be held every Monday from

10am – 11am.

■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/Eventbrite/ Tai-Chi-for-Health-317365848797

Adult education

Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills.

■ 9309 8531

Senior citizens meet

The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park.

■ Beulah, 0411 422 398

Homestead Walking Group

Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesday’s for a 30–45 minute walk.

■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/ Eventbrite/Homestead-WalkingGroup-493400784027

Community phone connect program

This is a free community service for older people and people with disability, living on their own in the Hume and Whittlesea regions. Through the community connect program, you will receive regular phone calls from a volunteer to check that you are safe, secure and well.

■ 8301 8863

The Whittlesea Historical Society

The Whittlesea Historical Society meets on the third Sunday of each month at Whittlesea Bowls Club at 2pm. Visitors are most welcome to attend.

■ 0414 740 778, or www.whittleseahistoricalsociety.org.au

Indigenous community garden

Westmeadows Indigenous Community Garden Members are hosting a monthly open day on the first Saturday of each

month 10am-noon, to showcase the gardens. Address: Corner Toora Drive and Redan Court, two entrance access. All are welcome.

■ Eva Mazzei, emmmazzei@gmail.com

Education and Community Centre

Do you or someone you know need help learning English or understanding Technology? Craigieburn Education and Community Centre is offering Free Beginner English and Computer classes to eligible residents. Small, relaxed and friendly classes, drop in and say hello at 20 Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn.

■ 9308 1477, or https://www.craigieburn.org.au

Community garden

Learn how to grow edible plants in this social gardening group which is developing the productive front garden at Sunbury Neighbourhood House. All skill sets welcome. Next working bee Saturday, August 19, 10am-12.30pm, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Repair Cafe Sunbury

Join the Repair Cafe for a cuppa and a skill share repairing broken household items; preventing landfill and promoting kindness, on Saturday, August 19, 10am- 12.30pm.

Take off weight 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 Off Weight Naturally) every Thursday at 9am at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ Rhonda, 0409 740 924

Sunbury Art Society

The Sunbury Art Society meets each Friday and Saturday from 10am-3pm at the Boilerhouse, Jacksons Hill, to paint or draw over a cuppa with other like minded people.

■ Ken, 0407 062 568, or Robyn, 0438 383 639

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

This weeks photographer’s choice picture is of dancers Lily, Liana, Saoirse, Jada, Hannah, Sienna and Fifi preparing for the Exford

Primary Charity Gala.

(Damjan Janevski)

351231

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 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 Lucerne (7)

21 Tableland (7)

DECODER

1 14

2 15

3 16

4 17

5 18

6 19

7 20

8 21

9 22

10 23

11 24

12 25

WORDFIT 9-LETTER

12 345678910111213

481327659

752169843

675813294 346295781

234976518 598731426

963458172

127684935

183276459

742861395

915723648

257194863 526317984

694538217 839645172

easy medium hard

368459721

471982536

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

M 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

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

4 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

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

SPORTS QUIZ

1. How much was Port Adelaide fined for not following proper concussion protocols in their recent AFL match against Adelaide?

2. Who was named player of the series in

3. What kind of animal is the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup mascot Tazuni?

4. How many minutes did the longest point in a professional tennis match last for?

5. The upcoming movie Challengers revolves around which sport?

Which African nation is playing Australia, Brazil and Venezuela in a series of basketball friendlies in August?

Which NBA team was Michael Jordan part-owner of from 2006 to 2023?

Who did Samantha Stosur defeat to win the US Open tennis title in 2011?

In which year was the Monaco Grand Prix first held?

How many Formula 1 Grand Prix victories does Daniel Ricciardo have?

Who captained Australia at the 2023 Netball World Cup?

Which national team did Australia defeat 61-45 to win the 2023 Netball World Cup?

13. Which national team did Jamaica defeat 52-45 to win bronze at the 2023 Netball World Cup?

14. Which Rugby League legend was the inaugural captain of the Brisbane Broncos?

15. Which country in Central Europe is hosting the 2023 World Athletics Championships?

16. Which cricketer is captain of Australia's Twenty20 team?

17. Nathan Lyon is set to play the next Big Bash League season for which Victoria-based team?

18. Which national team knocked the US out of the 2023 Women’s World Cup?

19. Which NFL team was sold in July 2023 to a group of investors including former NBA legend Magic Johnson?

20. Which country is set to host the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup?

21. The Dodgers and the Angels are MLB teams from which US city?

22. In which year did Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis win the Men’s Double’s title in the Australian Open?

23. Who is the captain of the Australian women’s national cricket team?

24. Current Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey once captained which AFL team?

25. Sam Kerr missed the first two matches of the FIFA Women's World Cup due to what injury?

26. And against which team did she make her first appearance after recovering?

27. As of July, Max Verstappen and which other driver have won Grands Prix in the 2023 Formula One World Championship?

28. What nickname is Australia’s tennis Fed Cup team called?

29. Excluding 2023, how many World Cups has the Australian netball team won?

30. Liam Stocker has played for which two AFL teams?

Daniel Ricciardo

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IGA Friendly Supermarket Broadmeadows

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Milk Bar Broadmeadows

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Broadmeadows Central Shopping Centre

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Coles Supermarket Broadmeadows

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Andrews Place Milk Bar Bundoora

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Good & More Asian Grocery Bundoora

Bundoora Fruit Market Bundoora

Mr Asian Grocer Bundoora

Uni Factory Outlets Bundoora

Uni Hill Town Centre Bundoora

RMIT Campus Store Bundoora

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Bundoora Hotel Bundoora

Woolworths Supermarket Bundoora

Shell Service Station Bundoora

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Caltex Woolworths Service Station Bundoora

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Polaris 3083 Shopping Centre Bundoora

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The Lott Campbellfield

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Meadow Heights Newsagency Coolaroo

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Real Estate Agents Everywhere

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,

AT

MODEL RANGE

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)

A GLANCE

Bundoora closing in on precious double chance

Bundoora have taken a further step to securing a double chance in the Northern Football League division 1 finals series.

The Bulls were 37 point victors in their clash against Hurstbridge on Saturday, maintaining their spot in third on the ladder.

The home side were in control of the game from the outset, taking a 14 point lead into half time.

Bundoora coach Michael Ryan said he was rapt with his team’s 11.8 (74)- 4.13 (37) win.

“I thought it was set up with our pressure around the football and then the ability to be efficient with their entries inside 50,” he said.

“We were able to put some scoreboard pressure on the opposition pretty early in the game, in pretty tough conditions for both teams to play in.

“We’re pretty happy with where we are sitting but we’re far from content as well, we

know how tight it is up the top and it is such a tough competition.

“Ensuring that we put our best foot forward to make sure we can keep this winning form going.”

Things began to open up for the Bulls in the third term, as the scoring dried up for Hurstbridge due to inaccuracy. The traveling side only managed one goal from 11 scores in the second half.

“We absorbed quite a bit of pressure that they threw at us from the five to 20 minute mark of the third quarter,” Ryan said.

“They definitely owned the ball in their front half quite a bit and I thought our backs stood up really well.

“Off the back of that we were able to win the quarter on the scoreboard, just by being efficient with our passing inside 50.”

With two wins in a row for Bundoora with games against seventh and eighth placed

Macleod and West Preston to come, the Bulls could take a four game winning streak into a qualifying final.

“We know Macleod, especially on their ground, is always a tricky task to face as well, so we’re definitely not taking them lightly,” Ryan said.

“We’re going to have to be at our best again, because it is such an even competition.”

After losing to Heidelberg in a grand final last season by only 15 points the Bulls are desperate to correct last season’s result.

Meanwhile, a winless Whittlesea had a 14.15 (99)-6.10 (46) loss to Banyule.

In division 2, Thomastown lost to Diamond Creek, Epping suffered a loss to St Mary’s and South Morang fell short against Panton Hill.

In division 3, Mernda beat Lalor 48.25 (313)-0.2 (2) and Laurimar had the bye.

Harper Sercombe

Tigers score a third win

By Tara Murray

Westmeadows is wishing the Essendon District Football League division 1 season could go on a bit longer.

The Tigers, who have struggled this season, have now won their last two games to take their season tally to three wins.

With it, the Tigers have a slight chance of being able to avoid relegation.

Coach Ash Flavel said there’s part of them that wishes the season still had more than one week remaining.

He said things were starting to come together for the group and it was reflecting on the scoreboard.

On Saturday, the Tigers faced Craigieburn which had to win to keep its small finals hopes alive.

Flavelsaiditwasatoughcontestthroughout most of the day.

“Craigieburn is a very good side,” he said. “We started well, but it was an arm wrestle for the whole day.

“We were in front for most of the day. We were able to kick away in the last quarter. It was nice for once to kick away and not go the other way.”

Flavel said throughout the season they had let things slip for a quarter and it had proved costly, but this time they were able to hold off the Eagles and win the final quarter.

Shaun Knott kicked four goals for the Tigers, while Korey Flavel-Wood kicked three goals.

Knott was named the Tigers best.

Flavel said there were plenty of standouts on the day.

“Shaun Knott down back with Jarrod Petersen and Michael Portelli were the three main ones down back.

“It was our best game for the midfield outside of last week. Nathan Sparks, Jake Hatton and Jordan Kosteas were good.

“Our forwards also stood up.”

For the Eagles, Harry Albon was named their best.

For the Tigers, they have a small glimmer of hope of avoiding relegation now.

Glenroy will be relegated, but the second relegation spot is uncertain.

The Tigers sit a game and percentage behind Tullamarine and Keilor Park heading into the final round.

The Tigers this week face Keilor Park.

Flavel said they had already done the maths to try and work out what they need to do to survive. He said it was like a grand final for them.

“We need to win the game and beat Keilor Park by about seven-eight goals,” he said.

“We need to keep them to a low score as well. It is going to be hard, but the way we are playing I think we can do it.

Ramsay is the new coach at Whittlesea

Whittlesea has turned to Garry Ramsay to lead it into the future in the Northern Football League.

The division 1 club, which will be relegated to division 2 next season, announced the signing of Ramsay on Sunday as it’s first major step in the club’s plan to build long term, sustainable success.

“Garry brings a wealth of experience, a reputation for driving standards and achieving success over a long, highly acclaimed career,” the club said.

“Within the NFNL, Garry mostly recently spent four years with Montmorency producing great results for their club. This came after a highly successful stint at Macleod, which included a premiership and four consecutive grand final appearances between 2015 and 2018.

“Garry is also known for coaching the NFNL’s senior men’s representative team to the number one spot on the AFL Victoria Community Championships rankings in 2019. He coached the representative side from 2017 to 2019.

“We strongly believe Garry will lead us in “building for success” and re-establish our winning culture. In a positive appointment for our club, we are excited about rebuilding a future that members are proud of, which delivers sustained success on and off the field.”

Ramsay has been appointed for the 2024 and 2025 seasons.

The club will also have a new looking football department will be headed up by Doug Prow and Brent Toll. Mick Meyer will be a liaison-transition manager.

The club said the reinstatement of an under-19 team in the NFNL is a critical piece in the club’s future development, with an experienced coach to be announced at season’s end.

“Theboyshaveabitofbeliefatthemoment.”

Meanwhile, the Tigers have been busy off field, having signed three-quarters of their list for next season.

Flavel said he was meeting with more players this week.

“We’re not sure whether we’re playing in

division 1 or division 2 next season, but the main objective is to sign everyone on the list this year.

“We’ll be in a really good position for 2024.”

In other results, Tullamarine sealed its spot indivision1withan18.12(120)-12.11(83)win against Roxburgh Park.

Garry Ramsay (Supplied)

Jesse King kicked two goals on Saturday. (Jacob Pattison) 331317_17

Aaron Evans. (Shawn Smits)

Promotion beckons for in form Bundoora United

Bundoora United knows it needs to continue winning to ensure promotion and a championship in FV state league 4 north.

After finishing last season in fourth spot, Bundoora has been the team to beat in state league 4 north, sitting on top with two rounds to go.

Bundoora sits on 47 points, six clear of Brunswick Zebras.

With a goal difference of 13, it would take a miracle for Bundoora United not to seal top spot.

Club treasurer Malina Triantafylidis said the club’s men’s side had never found itself in this position for a long time. The club was on top of the state league 5 north ladder in 2021 when the season was called off due to COVID-19.

“It has been quite some time between promotions for our club,” she said.

“Two years ago we got promoted as another team had pulled out of the league.

“It is quite an achievement for the team this year.”

Triantafylidis said there had been a lot of work done in the off season by the committee

and coach Milton Sakkos to get the side to where it is.

“We got a lot of players brought in to get a team that can win,” she said. “I would say the commitment of the senior men is seeing them push harder to get the wins.

“It is a massive achievement for the men to be on top of the ladder.”

On Saturday, Bundoora beat Thornbury Athletic, 4-2.

Bundoora led 2-0 at half time before finishing it off in the second half.

Pacers through to final

By Tara Murray

The Whittlesea Pacers sent a statement to the Altona Gators as they booked a spot in the Big V men’s division 2 grand final.

After narrowly losing a semi final to the Gators, the Pacers had to win through to the grand final the hard way.

On Saturday night, the Pacers easily accounted for the Wallan Panthers in the preliminary final, winning 104-66.

Pacers coach Des Radoslovic was thrilled with the performance of the group against the Panthers.

“We wanted to make a statement last [Saturday] night and we did it for the full four quarters,” he said.

“We didn’t think we played that bad last week and played well in quite a few areas. We just played it safe and not in tune with our brand and our identity.

“It was about playing the game on our terms and playing to our style and strength and we played well.”

ThePacersledbyfourpointsatquartertime, before breaking the game open in the second quarter to lead by 27 points at half time.

The Pacers won each of the last two quarters to come away with the big win.

Radoslovic said they knew that their game style would eventually take its toll on the Panthers.

“We have a high intensity defensive and a fast moving offensive,” he said.

“We have a bit more depth than other sides and we still left some points out on the court.

“Wallan started well, but there comes a period when teams can’t run with us.

“Whether it’s half way through the second quarter or in the third, we break them.”

ThePacershadfourplayersindoublefigures led by Brendan Hughes with 26 points coming off the bench.

Every player also got court time.

Radoslovicsaidtheyknewtheirdepthwould show in big matches like this. He said at times training was harder than games with the talent that they have in the squad.

“Brendan Hughes came off the bench and gave us 26 points,” he said. “Jason Dirkx has two points.

“Next week it could be Dirkx getting 26 points. We don’t rely on one or two players “We have a good even spread and go right down to eight or nine.”

The Pacers now face Altona in the grand final at Altona. The Gators are the only team to beat the Pacers this season.

Radoslovic said they were looking forward to the challenge.

“We were the best team all season and they were the second best team looking at results,” he said.

“We expected to play them in the grand final. As we sit now, Altona had the week off and we had a really strong performance last [Saturday] night.

“We will be at full strength and we think that we are better placed than if we had scrapped across the line in the first final.”

There were mixed results for the Pacers youth league sides in their grand finals.

The youth league two women’s side stunned

Bellarine, winning 88-40.

The Pacers run included an incredible 28-1 third quarter.

Indiana Bodley was named best on court for her performance which included 19 points.

Radoslovic said they were hoping this was the start of getting a women’s side back up and running next season.

It was heartbreak for the youth league men’s 2 side, losing to the Sunbury Jets in overtime.

The Pacers missed a shot on the buzz of regular time to get the win, before falling 74-71 in overtime.

Triantafylidis said with the competition being so close, they are constantly chasing their tail in the competition.

She said they need to just keep winning to ensure they achieve what they are aiming for.

The club’s women’s side which plays in state league 1 north-west have already secured promotion and are also aiming for promotion.

With a small committee of just five people, Triantafylidis said this season had been a massive achievement for the club.

“Beyond the individual team achievements, the success of our players reflects the collective efforts of our community,” she said.

“Coaches, volunteers and our members, all invest their time, energy and unwavering support.

“The community spirit at our club is truly unparalleled.

“We take pride in knowing that these pending promotions will not be a victory only for the individual teams, but a testament to the spirit, hard work and perseverance that defines our club.”

Tara Murray

Sports shorts

Big V

Two Hume City Broncos players have been named finalists for the Big V men’s championship all-star five and most valuable player awards. Corey Fiddes and Toryce Manassa were named among the 12 finalists for the awards. Craigieburn’s Courtney Strait was named as a finalist for division 1 awards, while Whittlesea Pacers Pat Green and Gabe Evans have been nominated for the division 2 awards.

NFL

Inaugural Whittlesea women’s coach Jarrod Kindell has stood down as coach of the Northern Football League side. Kindell started coaching the side back in 2019,with the club saying the program wouldn’t exist without him. “Jarrod led the team to a preliminary final in 2022 and has played a key role in developing women playing skills across all ages,” the club said. “Jarrod will not be lost to us as he will play an integral role in the newly formed women’s football department.”

FV

Uni Hill Eagles are one step closer to claiming the FV state league 3 north-west title. A 1-0 win against Point Cook on Saturday, has the Eagles sitting four points clear with two rounds remaining. Craigieburn City is now in second spot, after a 2-1 win against the Heidelberg Eagles in the battle between second and third. The Eagles face Sunbury United this Saturday, while Craigieburn City faces the Western Eagles.

AFL

Many of the most promising under-17 boys footballers from Victoria, New South Wales, ACT and Queensland were in action on Sunday in the under-17 futures matches at Avalon Airport Oval. The teams consisted of players who are eligible to be drafted next year. Among those in the teams were Calder Cannons’ Harry O’Farrell, Noah Scott, Jayden Nguyen, Damon Hollow and Nash King, along with Northern Knights Lucas McInerney, Liam Farrar and Zak Johnson.

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Jordan Talevski (Ljubica Vrankovic) 350285_08

Brendan Hughes had a big game off the bench (Basketball Victoria)

Broncos into decider with a win over Wyndham

The Hume City Broncos are the first team through to the Big V men’s championship grand final, after stunning Wyndham at home on Saturday night.

After a strong win in the first week of the finals, the Broncos took plenty of confidence into the semi final at Eagle Stadium.

The Broncos jumped out of the blocks and led 8-0, before Wyndham took control and led throughout the rest of the rest quarter and the next two quarters.

The Broncos started to take control of the game late in the third quarter and finally hit the lead again with 5.11 left on the clock in the final quarter.

From there it was all the Broncos, as they came away with a 93-82 win.

Broncos coach Matt Foster said they were relieved to have got through to the grand final at the first chance.

“It feels good,” he said. “It’s a bit of pressure off not having to play next week and get the win there.

“They made some shots like they do, ran us down the court and we were fortunate that

the guys were able to turn it around a little bit, come up with some big stops and a few of them came up with some big baskets.”

Foster said for them in the last quarter and half it was about making the most of their opportunities while limiting Wyndham’s.

He said only in the last 20 seconds of the game he was comfortable that they had done enough to get the win.

“We came up with some big plays,” he said. “Some offensive rebounds and then defensive rebounds.

“In the first half we were giving up defensive rebounds and they were getting second shots and you can’t give Wyndham second shots, as they make them.

“It was about giving them one opportunity andrunningbackatthemwithsomebigplays.

“When it’s closer shots tend to not drop as much, unless you have the momentum and we had a bit of momentum.”

Troyce Manasse top scored with 33 points, as five players scored double figures.

Manasse was one of the key signings for the Broncos this season, as they looked to provide

more support for Chris Elder.

“We think we have 13 guys to do different jobs for us at different times,” Foster said. “Different games suit different players.

“Eli [Elijah-Taye Saifaleu] came in and had some huge minutes and some huge shots. Chris Kaba came back and had some big baskets.

“Troyce was fantastic for a few mines there and Euro [Elder] doesn’t get the recognition he deserves half the time. He played the full game on Maurice [Howard] and kept Maurice quiet as much as you can to keep him quiet.”

The Broncos now have the week off and will facethewinnerofthepreliminaryfinalbetween Wyndham and the McKinnon Cougars.

It will be the second grand final that Foster has led the side to, having coached the side in their loss to McKinnon in 2019.

It was a big night for the Broncos, with their youth league 1 men’s side beating Wyndham in the grand final, 91-76.

HaydenMcIntoshtopscoredwith28points.

Tara Murray

Big V award nominees

Two Hume City Broncos players have been nominated as finalists for the Big V senior championship all-star five and most valuable player awards.

Corey Fiddes and Troyce Manasse are both nominated and have starred throughout the season including in the finals series.

Manassa averaged the most points for Hume at 20.65, as well as eight rebounds and almost five assists a game. Manassa was also nominated for the defensive player of the year award.

Bundoora United women’s soccer team. (Supplied)

United is kicking goals

By Tara Murray

Bundoora United is punching above its weight with its female soccer program.

The club has just three female sides, one junior and two senior, but are set to play in the second highest women’s competition next year. BundoorasitsontopoftheFVstateleague1 north-west with three rounds remaining, with the top two teams guaranteed promotion.

With promotion already locked up, the side is focused on winning a championship.

Club treasurer Malina Triantafylidis said it would be a massive achievement for the club. “Wehaveseniorwomen’sandafullunder-12 girls team,” she said. “We do have other girls playing throughout the club.

“We recruited our old coach Jonathan Barrientos back to the club who has been in the W-League [A-League Women’s] for many

years.

“He came back and his commitment to the game and the girls is second to none.”

With a top two finish the side is set to play in the Victorian Premier League next season, which is only below the National Premier League Women’s competition in the state.

Triantafylidis said the aim for the girls long term was to make it into the NPLW competition. Short term, they have another one.

“The championship is the aim for the team,” she said.

Triantafylidis said the club, which has five volunteers running the show, is keen to further increase the female presence at the club.

“TobepromotedintheVPLisquiteunheard of for a small program like us,” she said.

“We have 15 per cent females at the club

which is quite low and we want to life that to 40 per cent by 2025.

“We are a small community club. For a club of our size having not many hands on deck, it’s a massive achievement.

“I’m really proud of the club.”

On Sunday, Bundoora United faced Lara United in the third last round.

Scores weren’t available by deadline.

In other results, Mill Park beat Craigieburn City, 3-2. Mill Park scored the only goal of the first half, before Craigieburn took the lead with two of its own.

Mill Park scored the winner in the 74th minute. Mill Park sits in seventh spot and Craigieburn City in eighth.

Bundoora United this week faces Clifton Hill, while Craigieburn City is on the road against Keilor Park and Mill Park plays North Geelong Warriors.

Fiddes averaged almost 14 points per game to go with his 8.5 boards and two assists a game, and was a key player in the Broncos’ win over the Jets in the first week of finals.

Hume coach Matt Foster has been nominated for coach of the year after taking his squad to second on the ladder, losing five games for the season.

Craigieburn Eagles coach Andrew Seidel was nominated for division 1 women’s coach of the year, with his side finishing fourth, after finishing last in 2022. Courtney Strait from the Eagles has been nominated for the all-star five and most valuable player awards as well as the defensive player of the year award in division 1.

Whittlesea’s division 2 men’s coach Desmond Radoslovic is also up for the award, with his side only losing the one game for the regular season.

Gabe Evans and Pat Green were nominated for the all-star five and most valuable player awards. Evans was also nominated for the defensive player of the year award. Max Stojanovic from the Pacers was nominated for division 2’s youth player of the year.

Elijah-Taye Saifaleupolu (Ljubica Vrankovic) 353161_11

Corey Fiddes (Ljubica Vrankovic) 347372_32

Demons crash out of the finals in straight sets

Mernda is out in straight sets after losing its elimination final to the Fitzroy Stars in the second week of the Northern Football League division 2 women’s finals.

In a one sided display at Epping Recreation Reserve, the Stars dominated the Demons winning 11.12 (78)-1.2 (8).

MerndacoachGarthDuncansaidhethinks the long season may have caught up with his team.

“It’s hard to put my finger on one particular thing that went wrong,” he said.

“It wasn’t really effort or anything like that, Ithinkwejustranoutofabitofsteamtowards

the end of the year.”

After coming up from division 3 at the start of the year, Duncan said he is proud of what the team has been able to achieve throughout the season.

“We were moving up to the unknown, we weren’t really sure what to expect,” he said.

“Now we’ve had a full year in division 2, we know the standard we have to be at and we know the levels we need to be at to be really competitive in this division.

“Finals from last year in division 3, to finals in division 2, it’s a massive jump up and the experience the girls will take out of it will be

of endless benefits.

“Obviously the results are disappointing but stepping up a division, being able to make finals and be competitive for the majority of games in the year, it’s a massive achievement.”

Afterafullseasonindivision2,Duncansaid improvements have to be made by everyone if they are to go a step further in 2024.

“You obviously want to add people to your list where you think there may be a little bit short in certain areas,” he said.

“It’s also internally as well. Not just players and coaches and little things from the club’s point of view. Everyone can definitely improve

Future bright for Hume

By Harper Sercombe

With only two matches to play in the National Premier League season, Hume City has already begun focusing on the future.

With its sixth head coach since the start of last season, the club has been through a plethora of changes recently.

However, since current coach Cameron Watson stepped up about the round six mark, the club has been heading in a positive direction, enforcing strong standards in a collaborative effort to get the club back to its glory days.

“Between round six and half way through the season there were a few changes … there was just that little period where you just had to put your head down and just get through,” he said.

“Wehavegoodpeopleattheclub,sowewere never in doubt that we wouldn’t get through it on and off the field.

“It’s just when you’re in that moment it can be a little bit tricky and a little bit tough, but we got through it in the end.”

With the door for finals shut for City, Watson said they have already started their preparations for next season, hoping they can hit the ground running in pre-season.

“We’re trying to get the club back to where they were and where they had success and I guess that’s started with the planning for the off season and moving into next season,” he said.

“Trying to make the club come together againandgetthatfamilyfeelbackandbuildon the end of this season and building into 2024.

“As a coaching team we’ve added some little changes and elements to the team’s game and individual games, trying to improve the team as a collective.

“I think that took a little bit of getting used to. But over the last four to five weeks we’ve really seen that on the field.

“Wewanttowinandwewanttobesuccessful and be playing finals.”

Watson and his coaching staff’s determination on setting higher standards across the board at the club, is something he says is already returning dividends.

“The message we were giving the players and how they responded, we started seeing that so that was a big thing for me and as a coaching staff it was a real big positive,” he said.

“[We] could see some sort of change in a small period of time and that just goes back to building on the momentum that we’ve created.”

As much as Watson is insistent on internal improvements he said he is realistic when it comes to needing to have turnover within his squad at seasons end, especially within the teams offence.

He said anyone would naive to think that there wouldn’t be any changes to the squad.

“There will definitely be changes … but

our message is going to be the same, just the expectation with that message is going to be a lot higher,” he said.

“For the players coming in and for whoever stays they will be well aware of knowing what we want from them.

“They seem to be enjoying what we’ve given them so far, and we will keep building on that and it’s just going to be a lot more detailed and

a lot more precise come pre season and next season.

“Westruggledforalargepartoftheseasonto convert chances which was quite evident

“We would like to strengthen our attacking options because that’s what wins you games, I think defensively we’ve been quite solid.”

On Saturday, Hume had a 1-1 draw with Port Melbourne.

going into next year.”

Fitzroy Stars will now play Heidelberg in a preliminary final where the winner will face St Marys in the big dance.

In other results within the NFL men’s competitions, division 1 side Bundoora won its match against Hurstbridge 11.8 (74)-4.13 (37).WhittlesealosttoBanyule,14.15(99)-6.10 (46).

In division 2, Thomastown lost to Diamond Creek, 13.10 (88)-8.8 (56). Epping lost to St Marys, 10.14 (74) 8.13 (61). South Morang lost to Panton Hill, 8.13 (61)-7.8-50.

Harper Sercombe

Connell to coach Tulla next year

David Connell will continue on as Tullamarine coach in the Essendon District Football League.

Connell, who coached the Demons for five years, stepped down from coaching the side last season and took on the presidency role.

But when the club decided to part ways with coach Ben Tankard, Connell stepped back into the coaching hot seat.

“David Connell will return to the role of senior coach on a permanent basis,” the club said on social media.

“David has been our head coach since 2018 and stood down at the end of last season to have a break from coaching.

“Since returning to the role as caretaker coach six weeks ago, David’s coaching style has seen improvements on the field from the playing group and a real hunger to compete.

“The club have a desire to rise quickly in 2024 and play finals football again, and the coaching selection panel felt David was the best credentialed person with values aligned to the club to achieve this next season.”

Connell said that he is re-energised and super keen to get to work over the off season and build this list again to have us back where we belong next season.

The club has also announced that Daniel Devine will remain as skipper next year. The club said that Devine’s leadership had been outstanding and really held the group together in what had been a tough season.

Tim Matson has also committed for next season and will be elevated to the role of one of the vice-captains.

“Timmy’s form and leadership down back in the back half of the year after injury has been career best and we are excited to see him continue to grow,” the club said.

“The club is confident with these appointments we have the right people in place to lead the way in making this club great again.”

The Demons sit in ninth spot with one round remaining after beating Roxburgh Park on Saturday.

Tara Murray

Mark Ochieng (Ljubica Vrankovic) 347368_02_12