Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 12th September 2023

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A cuddly delivery

Last week saw a ‘special delivery’ at Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s at Sunshine Hospital, with hospital staff receiving a heartwarming gift of hand-knitted teddy bears.

Kids who live in Brimbank and need specialist care or are very unwell are cared for at Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s at Sunshine Hospital and these ‘trauma teddies’ have been donated to provide comfort to these kids.

The adorable bears were handcrafted over several weeks by a community group of women aged 70 to 90 years, and their thoughtful gesture brought big smiles to the faces of children and staff alike.

Nurse Nicole Millson, expressed her gratitude for the donation.

“Our goal is to create a hospital environment that is as welcoming and comforting as possible and beautiful gestures like this can really make a difference in the lives of our little patients,” she said.

To find out more about volunteering at Western Health, call or email Volunteer Enquiries. Details: (03) 8395 9092 or volunteer@wh.org.au

Brazen daylight cafe hit

By Tara Murray

Police are examining links to organised crime as they investigate a fatal shooting in Keilor on Saturday.

GanglandidentityGavin“Capable”Preston, 50, was killed and another man he was dining with was critically injured after shots were fired outside Sweet Lulus cafe in Keilor Village on Saturday morning.

The village was packed being a Saturday morning and football finals being held just down the road from the cafe.

Security camera footage shows the moment Preston and the other man, aged in his 20s,

were peppered with bullets.

A hooded gunman dressed in black runs from the passenger side door of a black SUV and fires several shots from a handgun at Preston, who falls to the ground as smoke lingers in the air.

The other victim appears to see the gunman just before he fires his first shot and begins to run away as other diners also flee and hit the deck.

The shooter then runs back to the getaway car before it speeds away, with the attack over in less than 20 seconds.

While Preston died at the scene, another man in his 20s was transported to hospital in

a critical condition.

Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt told reporters on Saturday, the younger man was undergoing emergency surgery for gunshot wounds to his stomach.

He said the two offenders then fled in a black SUV, which was found dumped in nearby Blair Court.

“Given the circumstances, we believe it is linked to organised crime,” he said.

“We’reintheearlystagesoftheinvestigation. Anumberofsearchesareunderway,including at the scene.”

He said multiple shots were fired into the upper bodies of both men in front of shocked

diners.

“The incident took place outside the cafe, there were a number of other people dining at the time. It’s unfortunate it has taken place in such a public manner,” he said.

Premier Daniel Andrews attempted to quell fearsofanescalatingMelbournegangwar. He said diners caught up in the daylight shooting would have been traumatised but expressed confidence the offenders would be caught.

“No one should underestimate the resolve of Victoria Police to fight crime and to keep us safe and to deal with incidents like this,” he told reporters on Sunday.

-with AAP

Michaela (8) and Muhummad (10) and nurses Joan Reivers, Maddison McCarvey and Nicole Millson. (Damjan Janevski) 358983_02

Four arrests in transit crackdown

By Tara Murray

PolicewereoutinforceatWatergardensstation

on Wednesday last week as part of the ongoing Omni Operation.

Police from the Transit Safety Division and other units conducted the operation at the station and surrounding areas, which is aimed to detect weapons offences and enhance community safety.

Police spoke with more than 300 people and no weapons were located during the operation.

Four people were arrested for a range of offences including possessing drugs and shop theft. Two were released on caution while the other two will be charged on summons.

One driver will be charged on summons for driving while disqualified and allegedly returningapositiveoralfluidtest.Theirvehicle was also impounded for 30 days.

Another driver will be charged on summons after they were allegedly found to be driving while suspended, while 14 penalty notices were issued for separate traffic-related offences.

An Omni operation provides police with additional powers to detect weapon offences within a designated search area. The powers for the Chief Commissioner to declare a planned search area are set out in the Control of Weapons Act.

It’s not the first time police have conducted this operation at Watergardens, with police having had the extra powers in the search area multiple times in the past few years as they continue to focus on community safety.

Transit Safety Division Senior Sergeant

Flying high with $10,000 in support

St Albans Community Youth Club will be able to employ youth workers to facilitate an after school youth drop out program after receiving support from the Melbourne Airport Community Fund.

The airport is giving $10,000 to 10 separate neighbourhood houses and community centres with funds directly assisting children, teenagers, and adults in their studies, training, and career endeavours.

Melbourne Airport chief executive Lorie Argus said the investment recognises the

importance of neighbourhood houses and community centres and the impact they can have on local communities.

“Our funding fosters learning in the community helping people of all ages to build their skills while promoting social connectivity through group lessons and activities,” she said.

“We hope to remove any barriers that may impact a person’s ability to study and work, which is why we meticulously selected community initiatives that encourage tuition, connections and practical skill-based training

that can lead to employment opportunities. St Albans Community Youth Club manager James Dredge the grant will enable them to employ youth workers to facilitate their after-school youth drop in program and it will make a big difference to the young people of St Albans.

The club’s project was called the Levelling up – The Tin Shed Youth Crew. Taylors Hill Youth and Community Centre wasalsoamongtherecipientsreceivingfunding for its Westside Coffee Training Program.”

Brooke Ayres said the highly visible presence was about boosting safety in and around the Watergardens shopping centre and public transport hubs.

“With no weapons located, that’s a really pleasing sign that our proactive approach is making a difference,” she said.

“We know our presence serves as a strong deterrent to would-be offenders.

“We’ll continue to run targeted operations like this one in a bid to detect and deter offending right across the network.”

Animal cruelty on the rise

Brimbak has recorded the 13th highest number of animal cruelty reports in Victoria, new data reveals.

The RSPCA released Victoria’s Animal Cruelty Data for the 2022-23 financial year, which showed an almost 20 per cent increase in the number of animals needing RSPCA help compared to the previous year. Throughout the municipality, there were 251 cruelty reports, 10 of which resulted in animals being seized or surrendered. State wide the number of animals seized by or surrendered to RSPCA Victoria has increased for the sixth year in a row.

RSPCA Victoria’s chief inspector MichaelStaggsaidthecontinuedincrease in cruelty reports was a worrying trend.

“In the last 12 months, our inspectors have investigated more than 10,000 reports of animal cruelty and seized or took the surrender of 2569 animals across the state,” he said.

“During this time, we’ve also had several investigations resulting in large-scale seizures or surrenders of animals, forcing our teams to find room and resources to care for them in a short space of time. When we prosecute cases of animal cruelty, our shelter teams may need to care for the animals involved as the court cases progress, sometimes lasting months or years.

“[This adds] to the pressure already faced by our near-capacity shelters.”

RSPCA Victoria said it forecasts the number of animals coming into its care via the inspectorate will reach more than 3340 by 2027, which is a 222.7 per cent increase from 2017-18 financial year.

Mr Stagg said some of the factors contributing to this increase include cost of living pressures and a lack of education: “Cost of living pressures may be impacting people’s ability to care for their pets, whether it be their ability to provide suitable food or their ability to pay for necessary medical care. Many people also became first-time pet owners during the pandemic and may need further information or support to help them understand how to care for their animals.”

Welcoming and accessible space now open in Brimbank

Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect

Centres in seven regions, including in Brimbank, are now officially open.

These services are the first of their kind in Australia, supporting the mental health and quality of life of caregivers when supporting someone with mental health challenges, illness, psychological distress or addiction.

Recognising these Victorians are often unabletoworkandwithoutadequatesupport,

the centres offer a welcoming and accessible space, available without need for a referral –giving those with care responsibilities access to a range of services, including information, networks, resources and hardship funds.

Mental Health Minister Gabrielle Williams said central hubs and additional satellite sites now open across regional and metro Victoria, including in Sunshine which caters for Melbourne’s west.

More than 140 people offering lived

experience in supporting people with mental health or addiction-related illness are working at the centres while the centres were also co-designed with families, carers and supporters.

Each hub and satellite location will also provide outreach, phone and online services to meet the diverse needs of the community.

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Connect Centres are part a $93 million investment to

support families and carers

Ms Williams said that the community is so often focused on supporting those living with mental illness that we forget to check on the people caring for them.

“These centres play an important role in not only promoting a better quality of life for caregivers, but also offering practical services, including advice, connection to support networks and access to hardship funds.”

Youth workers Zac Vosper and Oscar Spiteri-Schulte. (Damjan Janevski) 356915_01

Briefs

Energy awards

Brimbank council was among three Melbourne councils to take out the top honours for their work driving renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives at the Cities Power Partnership Awards last week. The Cities Power Partnership Awards was held on September 7, to recognise the work of climate heroes in local governments across the country who are transforming Australia’s energy landscape. Brimbank took home the energy efficiency achievement award for its Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre, which is the first all-electric aquatic centre in Australia.

Big day at bike centre

The Brimbank Bicycle Education Centre was a flurry of activity last Tuesday.

About 50 prep students from St Albans East Primary School were joined by St Albans Secondary College students as part of a big brother-big sister program, with the older students helping the younger ones.

Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire and St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman were also in attendance with the past president of the St Albans Rotary Club which helped start the centre 30 years ago.

The centre’s Neil H ?? said it was a really good day connecting the St Albans community together with centre build on what used to be the edge of St Albans.

He said all the children got a lot out of the day.

“Less than 10 of the kids had rode a bike before,” he said. “It teaches them how to ride a bike and along with road safety. That is what w are focused on and how to use a shared path.

“Riding a bike is a good skill to have and they all had a good day.”

Fire in Sunshine North Police are investigating following a fire at a home in Sunshine North on Monday 4 August. Emergency services were called to the Cooke Avenue residence after reports of the fire about 6.30pm. Firefighters arrived on scene within five minutes and found the house well alight with flames breaching through the roof. It took about 30 minutes to bring the fire under control and there was no one inside the residences. The fire is being treated as suspicious. A crime scene guard was placed on the property until detectives attended the scene on Tuesday morning.

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St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman and Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire joined by students of St Albans East Primary School and St Albans Secondary College, as well as representatives of Brimbank Bicycle Education Centre. (Jacob Pattison) 358402_01

Preventing more assault trauma

By Cade Lucas

Sexual assault is a traumatic experience for any victim, but it doesn’t always end with the incident itself.

Disclosing sexual assault to others can also be a source of trauma if not handled correctly, something the Western Region Centre Against Sexual Violence (Westcasa) and Victoria University (VU) are hoping to prevent.

The two organisations have entered into a partnership to deliver a range of training programs on how to respond to someone disclosing a sexual assault.

“That they feel safe, feel believed, that there’s

no judgement and that the person who is supporting the victim survivor is able to offer avenues of referral and options to seek further professional assistance,“ said Westcasa’s Head of Operations Karen Woolford on what victim survivors disclosing sexual assault need and what participants in the training program would learn.

MsWoolfordaddedthathowpeoplerespond has a huge impact on victim survivor recovery.

“Studies have shown that the first three months post-sexual assault is the best time to elicit the best outcome in terms of recovery, but that first experience of disclosing sexual assault, how it is received, has a huge impact on

their therapeutic recovery and their decision to access services.”

Given many sexual assault disclosures are about historical cases that are revealed years after they occurred, the training also covers how to respond to these cases, though Ms Woolford said the approach was similar.

“Even if it’s something that happened in childhood or a longtime ago, the disclosure and reception of that is still very important in the healing process.”

The partnership between Westcasa and VU continues a longstanding relationship between the two organisations which also includes free and confidential on-campus counselling for

Movelle students show off creativity

Movelle Primary School students have gotten creative while looking at the environment as part of the Climate Oasis in Schools program. The school was the first primary school to participate in this pilot program, with the grade 5 and 6 students involved in co-designing a sketched landscape master plan of the school grounds, in collaboration with professional landscape architects from Pollen Studio and sustainability officer Chiara Trimarchi.

In a series of five workshops students

brainstormed design solutions individually and in small groups, to increase urban greening and provide urban cooling.

Design and technologies specialist Melina Cutri said in today’s climate crisis it’s important to empower students to learn and become passionate about sustaining the environment they live in.

“Although I can appreciate the importance of learning theory, I truly believe that the practicality of the ‘master plan’ was essential to the student’s understanding,” she said.

“The students really enjoyed working with industry professionals, such as sustainability officer Chiara, and landscape architects, Bede and Georgia.

“The fact that this was a ‘real life’ project was invaluable to the student’s learning and truly enriched their understanding of all the concepts taught in class.”

School principal Karen Wood has set aside $100,000 of the school’s money to fund some of the master plan and will seek future grants to complete the rest.

Tutor program continues for two more years

Victorianstudentswillgetthetailoredlearning support they need to thrive at school, with the extension of the tutor learning initiative until at least the end of 2025.

Daniel Andrews and Education Minister Natalie Hutchins visited Sunshine North Primary School on September 4 to announce $485 million to extend the program for the next two school years.

Allgovernmentandlow-feenon-government schools will continue to benefit from the program, which will play a key role in building on the progress demonstrated by Victoria’s

nation-leading NAPLAN results. this investment will now make sure every student identified as needing additional support in the 2023 and 2024 assessments at government schools will get it.

Tutors work with small groups of students who have been identified by assessments or by their teachers as needing extra help in their literacy and numeracy, while individual schools determine how tutoring support is implemented, tailoring it to the needs of each student.

The program will now also provide tailored

education support for 500 students in the care system who have become disengaged from school in care settings.

The tutor program called on pre-service teachers, teachers on leave, retired teachers and casual relief teachers to sign up and get back in the classroom, with at least one tutor in all government schools.

Education Minister Natalie Hutchins said, “tutors’ tireless hard work in schools across the state has been paramount to keeping our kids on track, but we’ll continue this work to make sure every child is supported.”

students and compliments the Respect. Now. Always campaign aimed at combating sexual assaults and sexual harassment in Australian universities.

While open to students, the half day training program is mostly aimed at staff and is hoped to one day be an annual requirement for all employees, similar to a first-aid course.

Victoria University students needing counselling or further information can call 03) 919 5400 or email student.counselling@ vu.edu.au.

For 24 hour sexual assault crisis care, call: 1800 806 292.

For emergencies call 000.

New life for equipment

Medical equipment from Sunshine Private Hospital has been recycled for redistribution, with the goods headed towards hospitals in developing countries.

Sunshine Private Hospital has banded together with Australian Unity to donate $125,000 worth of equipment to Rotary Donations in Kind for hospitals in developing countries, including Ethiopia and Zimbabwe.

Rotary Donations in Kind is a volunteer-based recycling facility used to collect and redistribute goods for developing countries and to disadvantaged individuals in the local community.

The donation features three aesthetic machinesandarangeofotherequipment including, trolleys, an operating theatre table, refrigerators, and a number of wheeled beds.

The medical equipment was sourced fromtheclosureofthepreviousSunshine Day Hospital which was replaced with the opening of the Sunshine Private Hospital in February that had been furbished with new equipment funded through Australian Unity’s Healthcare Property Trust.

Australian Unity senior asset manager Peter Beale said the organisation wanted to give the equipment a new lease of life and deliver it to a community that would benefit from the donation.

“We were introduced to Rotary Donations in Kind and we organised to send the equipment to developing countries. They were interested in having any equipment we had available, and the list of donations which started off small just continued to grow,” he said.

Mr Beale said the medical equipment has been diverted from landfill, and was recently packed into a shipment container now on its way to a new home overseas.

“This equipment will be put to good use for a lot longer overseas, which were otherwise headed for a tip,” he said.

Hannah Hammoud

Australian Unity senior asset manager Peter Beale, Unitas Healthcare chief executive Dr Malak Sukkar and Donations in Kind manager Laurie Fisher. (Supplied)

Movelle Primary School principal Karen Wood and students Palace, Sophie and Aaron with their masterplan. (Damjan Janevski) 358315_02

Ovarian cancer hope for women

By Liam McNally

For western suburbs mum Rochelle McKenry, ovarian cancer is a deeply personal topic that reaches deep into her family history, but a new blood test currently in development may change the way she looks at the illness.

Ms McKenry’s family are five-generation BRCA2 carriers, a gene mutation that puts carriers at increased risk of developing certain hereditary cancers including breast, prostate and ovarian cancers.

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal of all cancers affecting women in Australia, and a silent killer.

The current five year survival rate is 49 per cent and this has not changed substantively in 50 years, according to the Hudson Institute of Medical Research (HIMR).

Currently, there is no accurate and reliable detection test for ovarian cancer.

Invasive surgery to remove the ovaries remains the only way to definitively diagnose the presence of malignant disease.

Ms McKenry lost her great grandmother to ovarian cancer, and upon learning they were BRCA2 positive, her mother and aunty made the choice to undergo risk management surgery.

Ms McKenry is also due to undergo the surgery in September, saying she weighed the decision over two years.

“I didn’t want someone telling me that I needed to get rid of parts of my body to live a longer life,” she said. “I’d only just had my seconddaughteranditwasaconfrontingtime.”

In the near future, a new blood test may be available to improve ovarian cancer diagnosis, with the potential to reduce unnecessary surgery.

HIMR, funded by the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF), has developed a

new diagnostic test for ovarian cancer which, pending regulatory approval, may be available for triage use by 2025.

The blood tests will be underpinned by a patented novel biomarker, CXCL10, which is

produced early and at high levels by ovarian cancers, but not in non-malignant disease.

The blood test is now being commercialised by ASX-bound Australian company Cleo Diagnostics Ltd, and HIMR chief executive

Professor Elizabeth Hartland said Hudson InstituteisdelightedtobepartneringwithCleo Diagnostics to take work on ovarian cancer one step closer to delivering a much-needed diagnostic test.

CLEO Diagnostics lead medical advisor Professor Tom Jobling said this new test will help ensure that an optimal management plan can be put in place early, which will streamline the referral process and provide the best care for patients.

“This also extends to patients with benign conditions, where early identification will permit direction to more appropriate use of resources,” he said.

Ms Mckenry said a diagnostic test would be brilliant.

“The prevention of unnecessary risk management surgery is amazing,” she said “Going through that change early in life is hard…yesyou’re removing the riskbuttohave this choice through this blood test, it’s a major breakthrough.

“If this was available to us earlier, I wouldn’t have had to go through two years of trying to come to terms with the reality of taking away my body parts, it’s an emotional rollercoaster.”

Ms McKenry said the test has the potential to be important for her children when they grow older.

“Our children legally can’t test for this gene until they’re of age … For them, I hope that this gene won’t change their life,” she said.

“I hope they will live a long and prosperous life, life is filled with worries but that shouldn’t be one of them.

“The world of BRCA2 is changing, people, the government, and the health system are becoming more aware. I hope that by the time [they’re older they’ll have] tests like this blood test, and I hope they will have something like this for breast cancer as well.”

Rochelle McKenry (middle) with her mother Beverley Butler (left), her aunty Glenda Cusack (right) and her daughters Matilda, 5 and Lillian, 8. (Supplied)

Helping little Daisy grow

Welcoming a child is meant to be one of the most exciting things in the world, but for Rebecca Harris and Alistair Woodard it was anything but as Tara Murray reports.

After a tough pregnancy, Rebecca delivered baby Daisy at just 27 weeks at theJoanKirner Women’sandChildren’s at Sunshine Hospital on May 10.

At just 475 grams, Daisy is the smallest baby born at the hospital.

Daisy would spend the first three months of her life at the hospital and her and her parents have been frequent visitors ever since.

“I didn’t have the best pregnancy, I was quite sick, I had hyperemesis,” recalls Rebecca.

“We found out that Daisy was going to be small, we knew she had a condition called IUGR, which is intrauterine growth restriction.

“So we knew she was going to be born small and then one weekend I started feeling sick, I ended up in hospital with preeclampsia and then three days later she was born.”

While expecting Daisy to be small, the pair thought she would be at least 500 grams.

Rebecca,anurseherself,saidhowsmallDaisy was wasn’t something they expected.

“It was really confronting, she was tiny,” she said. “She could fit in your hand. But she’s doing really well, she’s 2.7 kilos now.

“It sort of happened all of a sudden, so I was onlikeamonitorandyoucouldseethatshewas havingdipsinherheartrate,anditallhappened all at once.

“We were rushed down to have a caesarean and I was feeling very overwhelmed and scared but everyone there was so supportive and the staff were just so lovely. It honestly made it so that you can deal with a bad situation, all the people were so lovely.”

Alistair said it felt like they just copped

everything through the pregnancy.

Home for the next three months would be Western Health’s Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s at Sunshine Hospital, starting with the NICU ward.

Both Alistair and Rebecca said the hospital felt more like a home away from home.

“Wealwaysfeltwelcomedthere,wewereable to go in anytime,” said Alistair.

“The nurses were so friendly.”

Rebecca added, “We spent three months in the NICU, and honestly the staff made me feel so comfortable”.

“We felt welcomed there, we were able to go in anytime. They really became like a second family. They became like my friends in a way.

“Everybody knew Daisy, because she’d started at the NICU… the nurses would pop in and see her and they’d be like ‘how’s Daisy going?’”

Daisy quickly became famous at the hospital firstly because of her size and then as she was so healthy as well. That was the most astounding thing,everyonewasshockedathowshethrived.

Being at the hospital however, eventually took at toll on her parents.

“We got frustrated I guess towards the end, butthatwasjustourownimpatienceofwanting to get her home,” Alistair said.

“Of course, the hospital wouldn’t let us take her home until they felt comfortable that she wasinagoodplace.Andofcourse,intheend,it was the best decision.

“She’s come home and she hasn’t had any issues being home.”

Both Rebecca and Alistair highlighted

supportive staff at the hospital had been during their stay.

Consultant neonatologist Dr Gillian Foo, whowasoneofDaisy’sdoctors,saidforthestaff it’s about making sure the whole family is being looked after.

“You change lives in one of the hardest times in a family’s journey,” she said. “Things change so quickly. You’re on the journey with them. The babies grow in the intensive ward unit and then follow them with check-ups.

“It’s a vulnerable time in their lives and it’s a shared experience that not many people understand. I think it’s one of the most rewarding specialties.”

Dr Foo said when families return to the hospital many of them call the nurses and doctors ‘aunties and uncles’ as they’ve become part of the family.

When Daisy left the NICU, Dr Foo’s daughters had a special parting gift for her.

“We like to acknowledge how hard it has been for the family,” Dr Foo said. “We like to have graduation ceremonies and it was only fitting to have a graduation hat.

“It’s great that my family gets to see the work I do and the families know that we do care.”

Once babies like Daisy leave the NICU there is still plenty of support for the families and services available.

Daisy still has a feeding tube so requires assistance from dietitians and the nutrition team. There’s speech therapists for the children and mental health support for the parents the whole way through.

Dr Foo said they wouldn’t be able to do

the work they do without the support of the community.

“We have a very diverse population in the west,” she said. “We try and cater for a large range of cultural needs.”

Now with baby Daisy at home, Rebecca and Alistair are adjusting to life as new parents.

Bothsaidthebiggestadviceforanyparentsin the same situation is to lean on all the support that is available through the NICU and other organisations like Life’s Little Treasures and Miracle Babies.

They said also make sure you also take care of yourself.

Rebecca thanked the hospital team, saying they wouldn’t be where they are without them. Both are now enjoying life at home with Daisy,whostillhasafeedingtubeasshedoesn’t have the ability to take full bottles.

“I think the biggest challenge was just having to let go in a way for me,” Rebecca said. “I’m very structured and I like to know what’s going to happen next.

“But in this regard, I had to let Daisy do her thing, grow when she needs to grow. You don’t really know what’s coming next.

“Of course we got to know her little personality while she was in the hospital, but then bringing her home she definitely turned into a different baby.”

Alistair added, “It’s so good that we still go back to John Kirner as well. So we get to see the same doctors that looked after her on the ward. The continuity has been great.”

To donate to the Western Health’s NICU ward: give.whfoundation.org.au/donate-now.

Dietitian Vicky Saunders, Dr Gillian Foo with Alistair Woodward and Rebecca Harris with their baby Daisy, and nurses Nicole Millson and Samantha Dean. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 358828

Alistair Woodward and Rebecca Harris with their baby Daisy.

SHOWCASING BRIMBANK

Lakes Fresh Food Market

Welcome to the enchanting Mediterranean world of Lakes Fresh Food Market located in Taylor’s Lakes. Since 2008, the family-run business has been a lot more than just a grocery store – it’s your direct route to the heart of Europe. The warm and welcoming staff, an extension of the owner’s own family, infuse a vibrant atmosphere of the thriving shop with a personal touch. Whether you’re in the mood for cuts from the butcher or delectables from the deli – Lakes Fresh Food Market has got you covered. Fresh fruits and all your essentials await, all under one roof.

Hop on board and be part of the journey, where family togetherness, amazing flavors and a vibrant community spirit all come together in a fantastic blend.

Medical One

Looking for a GP in Brimbank? Look no further than Medical One. The practice has three conveniently located centres in Sunshine, Taylors Lakes and Sydenham.

GPs consulting at these centres offer general check-ups and a range of specialised treatments.

Booking an appointment is easy-just visit medicalone.com.au or call Sunshine at 03 9310 2948, Taylors Lakes at 09 9390 8222, and Sydenham at 03 9390 3311.

Find your local Medical One and access experienced exceptional GPs, right in your neighbourhood.

Paradise Corner

Paradise Corner is an authentic Sri Lankan restaurant. The team does all sorts of Sri Lankan food from short eats to main meals. Paradise Corner also specialise in indoor and outdoor catering. It is located at shop 7/28A Hume Drive, Sydenham. Stop by and try the authentic and perfect bite of Sri Lankan cuisine at Paradise Corner .

Maverick’s Window & Gutter Cleaning

Maverick’s Window & Gutter Cleaning is your dedicated local family-run business, proudly serving the north west suburbs. The team’s commitment to excellence is unwavering, approaching every task with a genuine smile. What truly distinguishes Maverick’s Window & Gutter Cleaning is the

passion the team shows for their work. They don’t just provide a service; they infuse it with love and enthusiasm.

The team’s deep-rooted connection to the community fuels their desire to deliver nothing but the highest quality service. They believe that when you love what you do, it shows in the results. The team’s dedication to their craft shines through in every project they undertake.

When you choose Maverick’s Window & Gutter Cleaning, you’re not just choosing a service provider; you’re choosing a team that cares deeply about your satisfaction.

Maverick’s Window & Gutter Cleaning takes pride in being a local business that embodies the values of quality, dedication, and a warm, welcoming smile.

Slices Restaurant

Slices Restaurant has established itself not only for its sublime locations and unique decor, but an extensive menu created using only the freshest and finest ingredients.

The restaurant offers a picturesque blend of urban and rustic design features, from the warmth of timber and custom-made finishes to distinctive lighting and decor.

It’s the perfect location for intimate or group bookings in a relaxed and comfortable environment,andhosttoavarietyofexclusive and diverse function spaces for any occasion.

Slices Restaurant is home to contemporary Italian and Australian cuisine, boutique wines, spirits and specialty cocktails. The chefs focus is to develop a balance of flavours and textures to a classic menu.

The Lakes Health & Fitness

For those looking to improve their swimming skills, The Lakes Health & Fitness offer learn-to-swim classes six days a week, led by accredited learn to swim instructors. The hydrotherapy pool is perfect for those seeking aquatic therapy, especially beneficial for arthritis and rehabilitation.

Fitness enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover a 2000 sq ft gym on-site, equipped with top-notch equipment. Morning and evening exercise classes add flexibility to your fitness routine, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The team looks forward to you coming to visit the clean and safe facilities.

Overnewton Castle.

Organ Pipes National Park is a popular Brimbank destination.

STAY INFORMED

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

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Rates notices

If you’re a City of Melton ratepayer, you will have recently received your rates notice. The first instalment is due on 30 September.

Your rates support everybody in our community – from newborn babies to our older residents. Rates allow Council to provide a range of services, programs, facilities, and community infrastructure, from footpaths, streetlights, local roads and bins, to parks, gardens, libraries, sports facilities, and community centres.

The average rate increase for 2023/24 is 3.25%, below the State Government’s 3.5% rate cap, with nearly half of all households seeing an increase less than that, and we’re providing an $85 pensioner rebate for eligible property owners.

We understand that some people in our community may be facing financial difficultly, and this is something Council has taken into account in considering rates payments. If you are having difficulty paying your rates, please give us a call.

For full information about how you can pay your rates online, by direct debit, BPAY or in person, visit melton.vic.gov.au/rates

Reimagine Melton lights up 6-7 October

The two-night Reimagine Melton event will transform the heart of Melton Town Centre into a vibrant hub of creativity and family entertainment.

This all-ages event will light up Melton’s amphitheatre and Bakery Square with visual art, including animated projections by artist Isobel Knowles, family-friendly interactive exhibits, roaming entertainment, live music and more.

Visit melton.vic.gov.au/reimagine

Spring school holiday fun

The school holidays are almost here, so get in quick and book your kids into our exciting holiday activities!

From cooking to self defence workshops, Dog Art for Teens, a day at the movies, sports for all abilities and more, there’s something for everyone these school holidays.

Details and bookings at melton. vic.gov.au/schoolholidays

Coburn Ward with Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

With school holidays fast approaching, it’s a great time for kids and teens to get out and about, try new activities, and make new friends.

Council offers a variety of school holiday activities for all ages, including Library programs like Art with Dogs for Teens, creating your own book, and STEM.

Our Young Communities team is offering activities like fishing, self-defence, casual play at Caroline Springs Leisure Centre and Cobblebank Stadium, as well as sports for all abilities; and our community centres are hosting crafts, cooking and yoga activities for primary and secondary aged children. Visit melton.vic.gov.au for more information.

Festival season is also coming up, kicking off with our much-loved Djerriwarrh Festival on Saturday 11 November.

Regurgitator and Pseudo Echo will feature as our headline acts for the mainstage, with exciting free kids’ activities and performances in the kid’s zone, a big street parade, market stalls, food truck alley, pet expo, and captivating performances at the intercultural stage, also on offer. And everything will be topped off with a fantastic fireworks display! Visit djerriwarrhfest.com.au or follow MeltonCityEvents on Facebook for information about this outstanding festival.

Finally, if any local clubs or groups would like me to pay them a visit, so I can see firsthand the wonderful contribution you make to our community, please get in touch to arrange a time.

Feel free to contact me regarding Coburn Ward or Council related issues on 0499 801 183; email: ashleigh.vandenberg@melton.vic. gov.au or like my Facebook page @crvandenberg

Mayor’s message

With the arrival of spring, it’s a great time of year to get out and about and discover your own backyard. Council is committed to creating outdoor spaces where residents can relax, exercise and play, so I encourage you to check out one of our great new playgrounds that have been delivered recently, including Centenary Reserve in Kurunjang, Splendour Circuit in Diggers Rest and Banchory Green in Hillside.

You may have also noticed that works have begun on the Kids Zone in Melton Town Centre. The new play space has been designed to be an engaging space for our younger community members and their families and is just one initiative of the Melton Revitalisation Project, supported by the Victorian Government. You can find out more about the Kids Zone and other Melton Town Centre Revitalisation projects at our website.

And finally, we are proud to have been named as a finalist in the Victorian Early Years Awards! Our Imagination Magic Program is a finalist in the ‘Supporting Parents to Build their Capacity and Confidence’ category.

Imagination Magic is a popular monthly performing arts and literacy program for babies, toddlers and pre-school children, and their parents and caregivers. It encourages child interaction and provides children with a fun, creative, stimulating experience filled with music and movement. You can find out about upcoming Imagination Magic Sessions and book at our website.

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

Calls for state vape crackdown

By Liam McNally

Melton council is appealing to the state governmenttoinstigateacrackdownonvaping products, in line with what is happening in South Australia.

NewlawswereintroducedinSouthAustralia in July requiring retailers to show proof that vaping products being sold are nicotine-free andprovideinformationabouttheire-cigarette suppliers, importers or manufacturers, that will enable products to be traced.

The new conditions are an interim measure to combat vaping products while the federal

government works through its plans to stop the importation of non-prescription e-cigarettes and the banning of vapes in retail settings and single-use disposable vapes, announced last month.

Melton council would like to see similar measuresimplementedinVictoria,withdeputy mayor Julie Shannon moving for council to write to Victorian ministers requesting licencing conditions on vaping products, in line with the recent South Australian vape crackdown.

A state government spokesperson said the health and safety of young Victorians is

Fighting the inner critic

A new exhibition is on its way to the Sunshine Art Spaces Gallery, demonstrating the role art plays in mental wellbeing for those with mental illness and how art therapy can be used to manage that mental illness.

Local artist ‘UniqMoHo’ discovered a new drawing technique called Zentangles, which she found kept her calm and focused.

“Zentangles helped me to be mindful and stay focused on what I was doing,” she said.

“It calmed me down and helped me to not worry about a whole lot of really big life events that were happening at the time.”

The exhibition will run for six weeks beginning on Friday, September 15, described by ‘UniqMoHo’ as an exhibition using art therapy.

“Theexhibitionisaboutmylivedexperience with chronic mental illness and how after 30 years of relentlessly trying different treatment options, art therapy has been

transformational,” she said.

“I do art therapy on a weekly basis at the Hunt Club in Deer Park and this has transformed my life, my family and enabled me to interact with the community.”

‘Death by Rainbow’ is a multimedia exhibition, which UniqMoHo said was created by focusing on one particular aspect that contributes to some of her mental illness.

“It is sort of an inner critic like that inner voiceweallhave,thatputsusdownandmakes us second guess everything,” she said.

“I started using art to engage with this internal critic and debate with it and kind of fight with it to help me better understand it.”

The exhibition is divided into four chapters, UniqMoHo titled them as Conception, Recognition, Awareness and Victory.

“I hope this exhibition will make people comfortable to use the words mental illness and help people find comfort in discussing it.”

Finding a sense of home

A new exhibition at the Melton Civic Centre reflectsonoureverydaylivesandcelebratesthe unique details that make our neighbourhoods home.

Love Where You Are, a collection of vibrant paper art and collage from Caroline Springs artist Tess Angala, explores how we can find a sense of home with great community support and creativity.

MsAngalasaidthethemeforthisexhibition is showcasing Melton, how people celebrate being in the moment, appreciating the present and being grateful for the space under our feet.

“I am fascinated with colours, patterns and designs on paper and fabric,” she said.

“Most of the materials used here are scraps that I repurposed into artwork. I think it is important to be conscious about the environment in every little way possible.”

Tess Angala is a mum, illustrator, stationary designer, baker, writer, engineer and paper

crafter who started her creative journey in the 2000s in Manila, Philippines.

All the creative magic takes place in her home studio in Caroline Springs where she runs her gifts and homewares business.

Featuring quirky illustrations, inclusive themes and abstract portraiture that represent the diversity of our local Melton community, Love Where You Are is Tess’ first exhibition and part of Melton council’s groundwork program.

The program aims to grow the creative practice of artists living and working within Melton to enrich the city’s creative ecology and economies.

It gives artists access to mentorship and curatorial advice from Council’s arts and events team, marketing and promotion support for their creative practices, and exhibition space at Melton Library and Learning Hub and Melton Civic Centre.

The exhibition will be open until February.

the government’s highest priority: “We have been working with other governments across Australia on how we can stamp out the sale of illegale-cigarettesandlookforwardtoworking withtheCommonwealthtoimplementsomeof the strictest vaping restrictions in the world.”

The general retail sale of e-cigarette products that contain nicotine is prohibited in Victoria unless by a pharmacy with a medical prescription, however the South Australian lawswereintroducedinparttodealwithvaping products that illegally do not list nicotine as an ingredient on the packaging.

South Australia Health Minister Chris

Picton said many e-cigarettes, particularly the disposable variety, are not labelled as containingnicotinewheninfacttheydo-often in very high concentrations.

“I am really concerned about the alarming rates of young people becoming addicted to vapes, with parents regularly contacting my office about the problem,” he said.

Since 2017, the sale, advertising and use of all e-cigarette products is regulated in the same way as tobacco products in Victoria, while policeenforcelawsaroundnicotine-containing e-cigarettes local councils are responsible for enforcing other laws.

Tess Angala.

(Damjan Janevski) 356944_01

UniqMoHo. (Damjan Janevski) 358733_01

Youth fest full of fun

School students were invited to the St Albans Community Centre to participate in a creative youth fest last week. The free event encouraged the kids to get creative and have some fun after school, and they all left the event with a smile on their face!

Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski visited the festival to capture the great work being done by the creative St Albans students. It was all

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

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

hands on deck at St Albans Community Centre. Top

right: Rory.

Above, left to right: Quynh, Ava and Noah. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 358211

Animals go wild for spring feast

Werribee Open Range Zoo’s animals are tucking in to the culinary delights of native blossoms and blooms to celebrate the arrival of spring.

The sun’s rays are awakening an explosion of vibrant floral delicacies at the zoo - including hibiscus, grevillea and acacia - much to the delight of wildlife palates.

Werribee Open Range Zoo Natives Life Science manager Jacinda Goodwin said, while vibrant colours are often alluring for animals, it’s the taste that appeals most.

“Our Eastern grey kangaroos and critically endangered Orange-bellied parrots absolutely adore grevilleas because they contain a sweet honey-like liquid,” Ms Goodwin said.

“The plants have distinctive yellow, pink or red flowers with long, thin petals that can be quite brush-like in appearance.

“Grevillea is also an irresistible and important food source for many nectar-eating birds, butterflies and bees, which will visit suburban backyards.”

Over on the zoo’s Savannah, antelope herds of Blackbuck and Lowland nyala are exploring flower trails of purple hibiscus.

SavannahkeeperLaurenIrvingsaidHibiscus blooms are particularly popular.

“Hibiscus are trumpet-shaped blooms that have bright and ruffled petals,” Ms Irving said. “The antelope love them because they have a nice tart flavour with a sweet nectar at the base. These flowers are also great because they’re high in vitamin C.”

Acacia is top of the menu for the Zoo’s inquisitive Vervet monkeys and Eland herd.

“Acacia is made up of small, round flowers that occur in clusters to make a characteristic bright yellow display,” African River Trail keeper Gunther Venables said. “It is irresistible tomanyspecies,especiallytheVervetmonkeys,

because it is high in sugar and resembles a naturally occurring sweet treat.”

All blossoms and blooms at Werribee Open Range Zoo are provided to the animals in moderation as part of a rotating daily schedule

of food-based enrichment. Keepers aim to replicate food items and experiences that are similar to what the animals come across in their wild environment.

Members and visitors to Werribee Open

Range Zoo may have the opportunity to see animals engaging with blossoms and blooms along the walking trails or during a Savannah bustour,whichrunthroughoutthedayandare included in entry.

Nestled within the charming suburb of Delahey, 10 McNicholl Way offers the potential for a comfortable and convenient lifestyle. This 3-bedroom house with 2 bathrooms presents an opportunity to create a warm and welcoming home.

The property features a double garage, ensuring ample space for parking and storage.

The open plan living area provides a versatile space for family gatherings and entertainment, allowing for a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas.

While the house may be in need of some tender care, its potential shines through. With a bit of loving attention, this property can be transformed into a haven of comfort and personal style.

Conveniently situated near the Watergardens Shopping Centre, residents can easily access a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The location also provides proximity to essential amenities and transport connections, making daily life more convenient.

Top: A critically endangered Orange-bellied parrot nibbles on grevillea, and a Vervet monkeys devour acacia. Above, left to right: Lowland nyala is attracted to hibiscus; Eland tucks into acacia; An Eastern grey kangaroo nibbles on grevillea at the zoo. (Pictures: Zoos Victoria)

Learning fest fun

Brimbank and Melton residents young andoldwereinvitedtoembracethejoyof learning this year at the Melton Learning FestivalfromSeptember2to9.

With more than 35 events across the Caroline Springs and Melton Library and Learning Hubs the festival

promised something for everyone from young adventurers to seasoned knowledge-seekers.

Star Weekly photographerJacobPattison visitedanIntergenerationalStorytimeand Play event to capture the celebration of wonder,curiosity,funandknowledge.

Melton residents came together for intergeneration entertainment, lead by learning officers Camie and Maria (pictured above).

(Pictures: Jacob Pattison) 358441

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

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED?

Art meet-up

Come and work on your art with fellow artists, stay for a cuppa and a chat afterwards, with all abilities welcome in this untutored space. BYO materials. The meet ups will run Wednesdays until September 27, 12.30-2.30pm.

■ www.trybooking.com/CJEOM

Lighting up Errington Errington sports oval and multipurpose courts will be lit up from sundown to 9pm on Wednesday and Saturdays up until the end of September as part of the Youth Fest in the West 2023 for people to make the most of the sporting facilities.

■ Sport@brimbank.vic.gov.au

VCE drop-in study spaces

Dedicated study spaces for VCE students are available across neighbourhood houses and community centres between various times between September 18 and 30. You can do group revision sessions or study by yourself for your upcoming exams.

■ https://bit.ly/brimbank-study

Mario Kart Championship

Come and race Rainbow Road for fun, prizes and bragging rights at Sunshine library on September 21. The L2P team presents a Mario Kart Championship with a competition for ages 12-16 and 16-25. There will be food and drink provided. Registering is necessary.

■ https://bit.ly/brimbank-mario-kart

Drop-in volleyball

Drop-in volleyball will be held at Keilor Basketball Netball Stadium on September 21. Two sessions will be held, one for 13-18-year-olds and one of 18-plus. No previous experience is required. Make sure you register your interest.

■ https;//bit.ly/brimbank-snr-volley

Clothing swap

Are you wanting to get some new clothes while getting rid of some of your old ones? As part of the Youth Fest in the West 2023, a clothing swap is being held at the Brimbank Learning Futures centre on September 26. Bookings are essential.

■ https://bit.ly/brimbank-swap

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

Casual basketball shooting

The Keilor Basketball Netball Stadium is hosting free open shoot-around sessions every Monday from 1-3pm in September. Participants can bring their own basketball, have fun and improve their game.

■ https://shorturl.at/bsEY0

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.

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

Deer Park Lions Club

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

■ Michael, 0417 307 572

Sunshine Community Brass

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

■ Andrew, 0419 444 620

St Albans senior citizens

St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day.

■ Roma, 0435 991 064

Caroline Springs Rotary

The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency

Relief Network in Ravenhall from 7pm. ■ rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Melton Ladies Probus

Meets from 10am on the second Wednesday of each month at Melton Country Club on Reserve Road, Melton. All visitors are welcome.

■ Dianne, 9743 7446

The Gap on Graham

The Gap provides a place for Melton youth to hang out, socialise, play games and learn new skills. The centre holds a night for girls aged 10 to 18 years at 5 Graham Street, Melton, on Wednesday evenings. There is also a drop-in night for anyone aged 12 to 25 years old.

■ Val, 0414 769 605

Melton Men’s Group

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

■ meltonmensgroup.home.blog

Take weight off naturally

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

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

Parkinson’s

support group

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

■ Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Bridge Club

The Melton Bridge Club has recommenced weekly social Bridge sessions at the Melton Library on Fridays from 10am-noon. Come along to play an exciting, social card game and have loads of fun. Bridge offers the suspense of poker, the cerebral qualities of chess and the excitement of athletic sports, all in a relaxed and social setting. If you like playing cards this is for you.

■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Melton Friendship Group.

Join the Melton Friendship Group for singles 55 and older. Meet fortnightly for coffee and chat nights and organised affordable outings and events.

■ 0406 493 734

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club

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

■ Ann, 0425 705 150

Melton South Knit & Natter

All are welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa.

■ 9747 8576

Zonta club meets

Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton.

■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

U3A Melton

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

■ 0419 563 016

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 week’s photographer’s choice photo is of Max Augoustakis and Zac Main at the radio station where they do a weekly segment called ‘Self-Titled’. (Damjan Janevski) 358073_01

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 Danish writer, Hans

– Andersen (9)

6 Electronic music player (4)

10 Yank (3)

11 Right away (11)

12 Graveyard (8)

13 French (6)

14 Umpteen (4)

15 Italian composer (7)

20 Enlarge (7)

21 Church recess (4)

25 Soporific drug (6)

26 Dictator (8)

28 New birth (11)

29 Speck (3)

30 Bring up (4)

31 Unconvinced (9)

DOWN

1 Subterranean burial chamber (8)

2 Army unit (8)

3 A Japanese religion (6)

4 Be involved (9)

5 Uncovered (4)

7 Spanish rice dish (6)

8 Solid carbon dioxide, commonly (3,3)

9 Dangers or risks (7)

16 Wealth (9)

17 Skipper (7)

18 Occasionally (8)

19 Abstaining from alcohol (8)

22 Scary genre (6)

23 The capital of Austria (6)

24 Convincing (6)

27 Invites (4)

DECODER WORDFIT 9-LETTER WORD

Today’s Aim:

18 words: Good

27 words: Very good

36 words: Excellent

M

A R I N T

arum, atrium, aunt, etui, inure, manure, mature, menu, MINIATURE, minuet, minute, minutia, minutiae, mute, nature, nutria, ruin, rumen, ruminate, rune, runt, triune, true, tuna, tune, tuner, turn, unarm, unit, unite, unmet, untie, urea, urinate, urine, uteri

No. 150

T

1 In which year was Gmail first released (in beta): 1998, 2001 or 2004?

2 Bundaberg is a city found in which Australian state?

3 Does the term ‘BreadTube’ refer to content creators on the left or right side of the political spectrum?

4 What is the title of Taylor Swift’s album released in December 2020?

5 Which company owns the social cataloging site Goodreads?

6 Taipei is the capital of which country?

7 In terms of image resolution, what does dpi stand for?

8 What is a drupe?

9 Teresa Palmer (pictured) stars as which character in the British fantasy series ADiscoveryofWitches?

10 In which year was the first female editor of TheAge appointed?

GAL ICY IDS ITS NIP NOT ORE PEN PEP PRO ROE SET TOO YAP ZOO 4 LETTERS BARB DUNG DYED EBBS ESKY KIDS OATH SACS SASH SEEN SLED STOW USER WADS 5 LETTERS ABOVE ACHES ACRID ADOBE AGREE ALIBI AMAZE AMBER AMBLE AORTA ARENA BARGE BASIS BIDES BLASE BORNE BREED BROOK CANED CLIPS CRIBS CROSS DEMON DENSE DIMER DOING GLOBE HALOS HIDES INANE INTER IRATE MADAM MEDAL MEMOS MINES MOODY NESTS NIECE ORDER SALAD SANDS SEEDS SLEDS STARE STATE STOVE THETA TRUMP VISAS 6 LETTERS CAMPER GEARED MADDER METRES 7 LETTERS AMOEBAS FALTERS IMPEDES MILITIA RETCHED ROASTED 8 LETTERS COLOSSAL MERCIFUL OBSOLETE OPPONENT 12 345678910111213 1415 1617181920212223242526 E F O X S N H D V W T A L R Y P B U I M J G C K Q 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 15-09-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com 562781394 615897423 743925186 139542867 498253671 981376542 874639215 327164958 256418739 easy medium hard 379825614 247351896 138569472 612943587 583697241 426718953 854176329 961482735 795234168 514287936 738629514 983765142 862391457 495178263 247913685 379456821 621534798 156842379 1 14 7 20 2 15 8 21 3 16 9 22 4 17 10 23 5 18 11 24 6 19 12 25 13 26 KZ ANSWERS: 1. 2004 2. Queensland 3. Left 4. Evermore 5. Amazon 6. Taiwan 7. Dots per inch 8. A stone fruit 9. Diana Bishop 10. 2020

No. 150

No. 150

No. 150

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which North Melbourne coach announced they would be leaving the club?

2. NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers joined which team after nearly 20 years with the Green Bay Packers?

3. Michael Smith is best known for competing in which sport?

4. Which country holds the most Olympic gold medals for tennis?

5. Which upcoming biographical sports film stars Adam Driver and Penélope Cruz?

6. Which NRL team does fullback Latrell Mitchell play for?

In which year was Etihad stadium’s name changed

In which year did Carlton last compete in a Grand Final?

Stefanos Tsitsipas terminated his partnership with which star coach for the second time?

Which 2017 sports documentary follows Bryan Fogel’s investigation into doping?

11. Which men’s team defeated the US 110-104 at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup?

12. How many times has jockey Damien Oliver ridden the winner of the Melbourne Cup?

13. Heath Streak played international cricket for which African nation?

14. The John Worsfold Medal is awarded to the player voted best and fairest of which AFL club?

15. The 2023 Vuelta a España multi-stage cycling race is set to take place in Spain, Andorra and which other country?

16. What is the national sport of Nepal?

17. Who was announced as captain of the AFL’s 2023 All-Australian team?

18. American billionaire Mark Cuban is the majority owner of which NBA team?

19. Which national rugby union team is known as Los Pumas (The Pumas)?

20. Danish tennis professional Caroline Wozniacki is married to which former NBA player?

21. Which African nation’s basketball team recently qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games for the first time?

22. Which North Melbourne player won the 2023 AFL Rising Star Award?

23. How many seasons did the Collingwood Magpies netball team compete in the Super Netball competition?

24. Which team did the Australian men’s cricket team recently sweep 3-0 in a Twenty20 International Series?

25. Who coached the Australian Boomers at the 2023 FIBA World Cup?

26. Which AFL premiershipwinning coach will present the Jock McHale Medal at the 2023 AFL Grand Final?

27. Which NRL team finished top of the ladder at the conclusion of the 2023 regular season?

28. How many movies have there been in the Rocky/ Creed film franchise?

29. What international team sport was recently announced as a probable event for only the second time at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games?

30. Which Matildas star will play for Real Madrid in the upcoming Liga F competition?

South Sudan

Harry Sheezel

Leading with light in auto design

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

In a display, which can only be described as a case of automotive smoke and mirrors, the new Hyundai Kona is designed to look like an electric vehicle – no radiator grille – whether an EV, hybrid or petrol powered.

The maker Hyundai says this is to make the whole range of the small SUV, including petrol variants - EV and hybrids are due here by year’s end - blend in with traffic better in the future.

The ‘petrols’ on offer at present are a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with a CVT automatic and front-wheel drive, and a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder with an eight-speed torque converter automatic and all-wheel drive.

Prices for the second-generation SUV start at $32,000 and rise to $46,500, plus on-road costs. The N-Line pack adds an extra $4000. Considerably more kit does come with the price premium.

The new Kona is covered by a five-year 100,000 kilometre warranty and attracts Hyundai’s Premium Roadside Support Plan free for the first 12 months and renewed annually for up to 10 years so long as the vehicle is serviced by Hyundai.

Styling

If there were a patron saint of electric lighting, say St Osram, the new Kona would pay him or her homage, for the car’s design makes Hyundai literally a leading light in automotive design.

The absence of a grille apart, up front the full width of the compact sports utility vehicle is emphasised by an LED strip light – similar to one which debuted in the Staria – on the leading edge of the bonnet from wing to wing.

Not far behind is a similar single bar across the rear, highlighting the futuristic (EV) view from behind. Outboard lighting matches the front triangular set-up. Inside and out the new Kona is bigger than its predecessor. In profile, apart from muscular wheel arch covers, the rest is very much de rigueur for the class.

Interior

Atatadover4.3mlong,1.8mwideandalmost 1.6 m tall, the ‘small’ SUV is more spacious on the inside too thanks to a 60 mm increase in wheelbase front to back. This translates to much more leg room in the back compared with before. Head room is more than adequate for the average adult.

Absent in the 2.0 is a shift-by-wire transmission stalk to the right behind the steering wheel found in Premium and turbo grades. In its place here is a conventional centre-console gearshift.

Storage abounds, with bins in the front doors big enough for large bottles and two retractable cup holders in the centre console, plus a generous glove box, as well as wireless charging, USB-C jacks and a 12V socket.

Rear doors can take small bottles and there are two cup holders in the fold-down centre armrest and pockets on the front seat backs. Adjustable ventilation outlets and a pair of USB-C power sockets are in situ. The boot will hold 407 litres with the rear seat backs raised, or up to 1241 litres with them folded flat. A space-saver spare is carried.

Infotainment

A high-resolution 12.3-inch widescreen digital infotainment display sits above the centre stack, which incorporates climate control air-con buttons. Directly in front of the driver is a digital instrument screen inside a 12.3-inch panel.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto are standard low down the model range, while Premium variants with satellite navigation have only wired systems.

This is due to change later this year with wireless becoming available to all.

Hyundai’s Bluelink connection enables remote access from a paired smartphone

with vehicle location, remote lock and start services, plus the ability to contact emergency services in the event of an accident.

Engines/transmissions

The Kona and Kona Premium come with either a naturally aspirated Atkinson cycle 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine sending 110 kW and 180 Nm at 6200 rpm and 4500 rpm, respectively, to the front wheels through a CVT automatic transmission.

Hyundaiclaimsacombinedurban/highway fuel consumption figure of 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres, while the test car came up with 6.1 litres per 100 kilometres over a week of varied driving conditions.

Safety Kona is on board with Hyundai’s SmartSense safety system, which includes front and rear autonomous emergency braking (with car, ‘powered two-wheeler’, pedestrian and cyclist detection), blind spot view and collision avoidance, lane-following and lane keeping assist.

There’s also rear cross-traffic alert, active cruise control, safe exit warning, surround view monitor, driver attention warning and tyre pressure monitoring. A multi-collision brake is designed to minimise the chance of additional impacts after an initial crash and an emergency stop signal

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE

Hyundai Kona 2.0 $32,000

Hyundai Kona 2.0 N-Line $36,000

Hyundai Kona 2.0 Premium $39,500

Hyundai Kona 2.0 Premium N-Line $42,500

Hyundai Kona 1.6 turbo N-Line $40,000

Hyundai Kona 1.6 turbo Premium N-Line $46,500

OPTIONS

Metallic paint $595 (all models); sunroof $1500 (Kona Premium) ; Light grey, sage green interior $295 (Kona Premium}

SPECIFICATIONS

Hyundai 2.0L 4-cylinder petrol, CVT, FWD Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Hyundai dealer for drive-away prices.

function are also standard.

There are seven airbags, including a front centre bag to minimise front occupant injuries in a side impact, as well as three top tether anchors and two Isofix positions across the rear seat.

Driving

Riding on the standard 18-inch wheels the Kona kept up a steady march over some rough country roads and reduced cabin noise intrusion to an acceptable level on concrete motorway surfaces.

Steering followed suit with positive feedback from the road, while disc brakes, ventilated at the front, had little trouble stopping the 1.4 tonne-plus vehicle in the dry-only conditions encountered.

Speed presented only one problem and that was purely electronic. The test car speed-sign recognition indicator suffered from a form of dyslexia: the 10 km/h speed limit registered in a shopping centre car park remained unchanged through several streets before the instrumentdisplayswitchedtothecorrectlegal limit.

Other speed limits were slow to catch up and slip roads constantly over-rode the legal motorway limit.

Constant speed limit and lane keeping audible warnings turned out to be overzealous, and while made to be turned off, were not easy to silence.

Summary

In typical Hyundai fashion the new Kona 2.0 stands apart in its class from a design point of view and it will be interesting to see what the hybrid and full electric models can come up with under the skin later this year.

Unique design features look to an electric future for the new Hyundai Kona. (Pictures: Supplied)

‘Great additions to our side’: United signs trio

Western United’s signing blitz continues ahead of the A-League Women’s season.

United has re-signed Philippines star Jaclyn Sawicki for her second season with the club, while young talents Lucy Richards and Natalie Picak have joined the side.

SawickistartedinallthreeofthePhilippines’ matches at the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup, playing a significant role in an historic tournament for her country.

After completing her extension, Sawicki said she is delighted to confirm her future with the green and black and is buoyed by how the team is looking heading into the new campaign.

“I am extremely excited and grateful to be part of another season with Western United,” she said.

“Given the results from our first season, we are naturally going to set high expectations for ourselves going into season two and I think the girls are going to come in determined to push for even more.

“It looks like we have added some great additions to our side so I am really looking forwardtoseeingwhatwecandoasacollective for this Club this year.”

After shining in the FV National Training Centre and Emerging Matildas programs for a number of years, Richards joined Calder United in 2023 and has continued to impress.

The 21-year-old can play on either flank as a full back or a winger and produced a match-winning display in Calder’s NIKE F.C. Cup Final win last month.

Having been a train-on player at Melbourne City in previous seasons, Richards said she feels ready to make the step up and become a fully-fledged A-League player.

“I’m super excited to sign my first professional contract with Western United and just extremely grateful to the Club for the opportunity,” she said.

“From training and playing with some of the girls at Calder, it’s clear this group has heaps of

drive coming into the season, so I’m keen to get started with the squad and try to help build on the success from last year.”

Goalkeeper Picak joined the roster on a scholarship deal.

The 18-year-old has signed after impressing for Calder throughout the NPLW Victoria season this year.

As a standout junior player, Picak then moved on to the FV NTC program and has found her breakthrough at senior level with Calder in 2023.

Picak’s form recently earned her the first nationalteamcall-upofheryoungcareerasshe joined the Young Matildas in a training camp last week. Now set to take her first professional opportunity in the A-League, Picak said she is counting down the days until she gets started.

“I am super excited to sign for Western United. It’s always been a dream to be part of an A-League club, especially my home club,” she said.

Raza to lead the Lions

By Harper Sercombe

Taylors Lakes has found the man to lead them for the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association season.

Last season’s club champion Aamir Raza will be playing-coach for the upcoming 2023-24 season after returning to the club last year, having been prevented from playing the season before due to COVID-19.

In his hiatus from the Lions he played at Minster, Southall Park and Malden Wanderers cricket clubs, in the Kent and Surrey cricket leagues respectively.

Coaching the Lions was never something Razawasplanningondoingwhenhere-signed at the club for this season.

“I was just looking forward to coming back and playing some more cricket,” he said.

“It was quite a shock to hear that Alex [Deuchar] (former coach) was gone, we got on quite well, we were quite good friends.”

Within 24 hours of Deuchar’s departure Raza said he got a call to interview for the position, something that he said he couldn’t turn down.

“Toactuallygetthejobwasoutofmywildest dreams, everything just happened so quickly,” he said.

Being an imported player, Raza is only in Australia to play cricket for Taylors Lakes, which he said will help his coaching while not detracting from his on field capabilities.

“There’s no point being a good coach and then turning up on Saturday’s, scoring no runs and taking no wickets and not doing the job that you’re actually supposed to do,” he said.

“I feel it won’t be as difficult as many people think… I’m able to dedicate the time whether it means I have my extra sessions a week, or if I’m turning up an hour early… I don’t see that being an issue.”

After finishing last in 2022-23, winning just the two games, the Lions have been able to bring in a host of players to help push them back up the ladder.

Fast bowler Adam Sylvester will join the fold from English county side Worcestershire. Top order batsman Nilan Fernando has also joined the club and will work as the batting coach. Welsh opening batsman Steffan Roberts is another added to the squad. Leg spinner Melisha Deshapriya also joined the club, coming across from Grand United in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association with Fernando.

With all of these new players at Raza’s disposal he is feeling bullish about what his side can do this summer.

“I think winning games of cricket’s the key, we’ll be taking it one game at a time,” he said.

“Obviously, the goal is to win the flag, that goes without saying.

“We aim to make finals and once you make

Sports shorts

NPL

North Sunshine Eagles’ Redouane Sarakh claimed the National Premier League 3 best and fairest at the NPL awards night last week. Champions Caroline Springs George Cross dominated the other awards following its championship and promotion. Joshua Whiteley was named the players’ player, coach of the year was Eric Vassiliadis and Whiteley was also the tied golden boot winner, with 16 goals from 22 appearances.

EDFL

The Essendon District Football League division 2 team of the year is out and four Taylors Lakes’ players have been named in the best 22. Christopher Vulic was named on ball, Aaron Vendramini on the wing, Luke McCormack in full back and Jack Burns was named on the bench.

VTCA

Sunshine YCW has announced a host of signings ahead of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 5 season. Wicket keeper-batsman Amitoj Kang has signed with the club. Young gun Noah Smith is a hard hitting all-rounder who hails from Albury-Wodonga. Smith joined the club as an 18-year-old, with a bowling average of 14.72 and a high score of 93 in senior cricket.

AFLW

The AFL women’s combine will take place on October 8 at Margaret Court Arena and AIA Centre. Three Western Jets players were invited. Midfielderforward Kristie-Lee Weston-Turner from Sunshine Heights, midfielder Kiera Whiley from Hillside and midfielder-forward Tamara Henry from Darley. Calder Cannons talented forward Sarah Grunden from Keilor was also invited.

WRFL

The Western Region Football League has released its women’s team of the years. Caroline Springs Caitlin Pretty, Nikki Perrett and Chazlize Sindon were named in the division team, while in the division 2 team were North Sunshine’s Aalivah Tyea and Braybrook’s Jennifer Tang.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT

finals we aim to win the flag and that goes across all grades.

“Two weeks ago I had a squad of 10 to 14 names, I now have a squad of 17 and that 17 needs to come down to 11 on match day.

“The boys know that there are positions up

for grabs and it is a fresh start, everyone will get a chance to prove themselves.

“We will be backing players, we have a lot of young talent within the club to come through and I think we just need to work to that.”

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Natalie Picak. (Jacob Pattison) 346097_03

Aamir Raza. (Damjan Janevski) 200782_02

Cobras book a grand final date with the Suns

Albanvale is into the Western Region Football League division 3 grand final.

The Cobras faced West Footscray at Hansen Reserve on Saturday in a preliminary final in a match of two tales, with the first half being a tight contest before the dam walls burst open in the second.

The game started tight with just two goals separating the sides at quarter time. When half time rolled around it was just nine points the difference.

However, an eight goal third term from the Cobras stretched the lead out to 52 points at three quarter time.

The goal kicking continued into the last quarter, with the Cobras adding another five majors to give them a 65 point victory.

The Cobras won 20.11 (131)-9.12 (66).

Reece Field booted five majors and was amongst the Cobras best, Liam Montrose slotted four, Daniel Bartolo kicked three. Joel Rattya kicked two in a best on ground performance.

The Cobras will now face the Suns in the grand final after losing to them by 80 points in the penultimate round of the season and 30 points just two weeks ago in a qualifying final.

Having lost at the same time last season, it was a relieved Cobras coach Nick Smith.

“We would have been very flat if we didn’t make the grand final,” he said.

“I feel like we’ve changed a lot of things and done things differently, it meant a lot to do better than we did last year.

“Now we’re there, anything can happen.”

The eight goal third term was some of the Cobras best footy for the year Smith said, however, it didn’t come without its challenges.

“There was a lot going on, we lost a couple of players in the second quarter,” he said.

“Jackson Smith got stretchered off with a lower leg injury and our captain (Jacob Maschewski) did his shoulder, they ended up going in the same ambulance.

“That was pretty massive, being down two of our best players and down our captain and

vice captain.

“And then the boys came out and did that in the third quarter, it was remarkable. One of the most amazing things I’ve been a part of considering what we were up against at half time.”

Neither Smith or Maschewski will be available for the grand final.

Now the only focus is on the Suns, it will be the third time the sides have met in the last five rounds of footy.

“Every time we go in with something different, my theory is you don’t lose, you learn,” Smith said.

“We’re confident that some of the tweaks and adjustments we’ve made will get us close to the Suns.

“I’d just be happy to be in that last quarter with the game on and a chance to win a flag.”

Harper Sercombe

Liam Montrose (Ljubica Vrankovic)359352_42_7

Season over for PEGS

PEGS season has come to an end in the Victorian Amateur Football Association.

The old grammarians exceeded expectations in 2023, after winning the division 1 premiership last year and making finals in the premier C division, with new coaches and a new captain.

Although, the back-to-back fairy tales was not to be, losing in an elimination final to Parkdale Vultures on Sunday.

PEGS finished the home and away season in third spot, missing out on the double chance, costing them in the elimination final.

The Vultures started well, taking a handy 15 point lead into quarter time. In the second term, inaccuracy hurt PEGS, kicking two goals five behinds, trailing the Vultures by 19 points at the half.

In the third term the Vultures started to get a bit more of a grip on the game, kicking three straight goals to give them a 29 point lead.

Christos Kosmas (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Blues display strength

By Tara Murray

Keilor is one step closer to the perfect Essendon District Football League premier division season, through to the grand final.

After a week off after the season, the Blues were out in full force on Sunday against Pascoe Vale in a semi final.

The Panthers came early, but they proved no match for the Blues, who went on to win, 20.14 (134)-6.10 (46) earning the first grand final spot.

Blues coach Mick McGuane said it was a pretty solid display of footy from his side.

“After a break which was a bit different to the usual format the boys were wary of the opposition, but are a steely minded group,” he said.

“They played a strong brand of footy for two hours.”

McGuane said that the Panthers had a crack early which they expected. He said his group was able to get control of the game pretty early and that followed throughout the match.

“We were quite efficient going inside 50 and we controlled the contested footy and

the clearances.

“Our defence held up and they scored just six goals from 45 or 46 inside 50s, which was really pleasing.”

McGuane said to see the group make sure they kept their foot down in the second half, was really pleasing.

He said with spots still on the line for the grand final, players know what they are playing for.

“The players are aware that it’s horses for courses with selection,” he said.

Damien Cavka and Matthew Clark kicked four goals each for the Blues, while Christos Kosmas chipped in with three goals.

McGuane said he didn’t want to single out three or four players who had starred in the game, saying across the board it was a high quality performance.

Online, Corey Ellis and Nick O’Kearney were named their best.

The Blues now have the week off before the grand final, with Pascoe Vale to play Strathmore in the preliminary final this weekend. Strathmore beat East Keilor in the other semi final.

McGuane said as far as he was aware, they had got through the game unscathed with no injuries from the game.

As for the week off McGuane, said it had been a long year and it comes with the territory of being undefeated and everyone chasing you.

“You have to keep finding ways to stay at that level to win a premiership,” he said. “The players have been great and I’ve had the best seat in the house.

“Winning 19 in a row at premier division is hard.”

It was a big weekend for the Blues, with their reserves winning through to the grand final, while their under-18s won through to a preliminary final.

Their thirds side has already won a premiership as has their under-16 division 1 side, where McGuane said a strong senior program starts with.

“It bodes well for a strong club.”

In division 1, West Coburg won through to faceDeerParkinthegrandfinalthisSaturday. Meanwhile,OakParkclaimedthedivision2 premiership, beating the Sunbury Kangaroos.

Thegameseemeddeadandburied,but PEGS were still up for the fight, bringing the margin to just 10 points during the last term. More missed opportunities couldn’t bring PEGS within the gap. The Vultures were too strong in the end winning 9.8 (62)-6.11 (47).

PEGS leading goal kicker for the seasonJackFennerwasamongstthegoal kickers, alongside other key forwards Riley Simmons and Tom Saggio.

Midfielder Andrew Macdonald had anothergreatperformance.Rebounding half back Jack Mckernan was also fantastic. Intercepting defenders Dave Fahey and Oscar Bales were solid in defence.

The Vultures will now face Camberwell in a preliminary final where the winner will face Ivanhoe in the grand final.

David Fahey (Jacob Pattison)346094_04

Heartbreak for Albion as Parkside takes the cup

It was grand final heartache for Albion and joy for Parkside in the Western Region Football League division 2 grand final.

The Cats faced the Magpies on Sunday afternoon at Yarraville Oval with the tension palpable about the ground.

After losing last year’s grand final to the undefeated Point Cook Centrals, the Magpies weredeterminedtodowhattheyfelttheywere deserving of, however, it didn’t come without a fight from the Cats.

The Cats jumped out to a great start, putting the Magpies on the back foot early, kicking five first term goals to two.

Although they were down by 22 points the Magpies got away with it lightly, with the Cats also kicking six behinds in the first term.

With the game seemingly on the line early in the second term, the Magpies showed they were up for the battle.

From there the Magpies were able to hit the scoreboard, however inaccuracy hurt them too, kicking two goals and five behinds in the second term to cut the margin back to just one straight kick at the main break.

In the premiership quarter the game was as even as could be, taking 23 minutes for the first goal to hit the scoreboard.

The Magpies went bang, bang, and stole the lead back before the Cats replied with two of their own, taking a four point lead into three quarter time.

Cats’ coach Blake Richards had a simple message at three quarter time.

“I guarantee you, us as a group, the Albion Football Club, the way we’ve been over the last 10 years is a hundred times hungrier than them,” he said. “We need this more than them, wearehungrier,wedeserveitmorethanthem, get that in your head.

“This is all about hunger. At the end of a grand final it’s about who wants to work harder, who wants to get to more contests, who wants to put their head over the ball.

In the last term it was ferocious, contest after contest. The Magpies were able to get the first of the term and put their noses in front.

The Cats returned serve with only minutes left on the clock, as Ashton Muir put one through from a set shot.

With about a minute left in the game and the Magpies down by four, skipper Campbell kicked out from full back., his torpedo punt finding the chest of a team mate. He rolled and sent the ball down to Jy Lambley. Lambley wound up from just inside the centre square, the ball trickled through and the Magpies were four points. The siren sounded and the crowd erupted as the Magpies were premiers.

Lakers fall short by one point

By Tara Murray

It was heartbreak for Caroline Springs as its premiership dreams ended by the barest of margins in the Western Region Football League division women’s grand final on Sunday night.

Facing Spotswood in the final game of the year for a third straight year, the Lakers went into this one as the underdogs.

The two teams had one premiership each from their previous two battles.

The Wolves had finished top of the ladder this year, while the Lakers had finished third and had to come through a preliminary final.

On Sunday night, the two teams put on an absolute thriller. It was hard contested football, with neither team giving an inch.

The Wolves led by one point at quarter time, then the Lakers led by the same margin at half time.

Two goals to one in the third quarter gave the Wolves a five point lead heading into the final quarter.

The Lakers kicked the first goal of the final quarter to lead by one point.

The Wolves levelled the scores and then managed to get an all important behind to take the front.

It was a nervous last few minutes with the

Wolves having a number of repeat inside 50s.

The Lakers managed to get it forward in the last minute and got the ball right to the goal line. The siren would go with the ball deep in the Lakers forward line.

The Wolves had done enough to wipe away the disappointment of last year’s grand final loss, with a 5.5 (35)-5.4 (34) win.

Lakers coach Alex O’Shea said they threw everything at Spotswood.

“It was a great game of footy, it went down to the wire,” she said. “Congratulations to Spotswood, very well deserved.

“They were the best team all year and top of

the ladder and they have fought just as hard as we have.

“I’m just extremely proud of my girls and the way that they fought for four quarters and played our style of footy.

“I told them to have your head up high, we may not have won today [Sunday] but I felt like we were true winners throughout the season in our team environment, you can not ask for more.”

O’Shea said the message was to play their game and give it everything that they had.

She said they did that but weren’t quite able to do the job.

“When it’s your moment, take your moment, take your chance and I felt like our girls really did that today, we took it to the now premiers,” she said.

O’Shea said the final few minutes the game could have gone either way. She said it was hardbeingaheadandtryingtodefendthelead and then switch to trying to win the game.

The Lakers kept winning the ball in their defensive 50, but struggled to get it in their half of the ground with Spotswood having set up a wall.

“They won, well deserving winners and our girls fought right to the end, I couldn’t ask for more,” she said.

“You never know how long is left, the crowd

was getting involved .You know move on for next year.

“I told everyone we’re back for another next year and we’ll see how we go.”

Shekeine De Satge kicked two goals for the Lakers, while Kyah Tessari, De Satge and Nikki Perrett named their best.

The grand final was the Lakers fourth in a row and their fourth in five completed seasons since having a senior women’s team.

O’Shea said their female program was one that the club was proud of.

“Caroline Springs Football Club really values the women’s’ program at our club,” she said

“We’re always willing to promote the juniors and work with the juniors between the junior and senior women’s program.

“We’re very proud of that and we’ve worked hard with the committee and also those involved just to be a trail blazer in women’s footy in the WRFL.

“It’s something we are very proud of and excited about for the future.”

In the division 2 women’s grand final, West Footscray beat Wyndhamvale, 6.7 (43)-6.5 (41).

The Roosters led all day and had to hold on as the Falcons came home hard in the final quarter.

Harper Sercombe Cody Bench (Ljubica Vrankovic) 359359_56

Jacinta Kondis (Ljubica Vrankovic) 359360_29

Caroline Springs players take a moment after the game, (Ljubica Vrankovic) 359360_51