Keilor capped off the perfect Essendon District Football League premier division season, with victory against Strathmore in the grand final on Saturday.
The Blues led from start to finish and a premiership never looked in doubt. The Blues had contributors across the field as it completed its second perfect season in recent times, having achieved the feat in 2019.
Brimbank council will no longer hold citizenship ceremonies on January 26, in acknowledgement that the date represents a day of ‘mourning and sadness’.
At the council meeting on September 19, councillors voted to shift the Australia Day citizenshipceremonyfromJanuary26,tothree days earlier on January 23 from next year.
The decision follows on from a notice of motion raised in February by councillor Jae Papalia who called for a report to be presented to council with options and recommendations onhowtoacknowledgethedategoingforward.
“January 26 has long been positioned as a day of celebration and unity but for many Australians, this is a day that divides us,” Cr
Papalia said at the time.
The council was presented the report last week, which reflected on the community engagement process undertaken with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and Traditional Owner organisations to understand community sentiment around January 26.
The report noted support from Wurundjeri and Bunurong Traditional Owners, and the Brimbank Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Consultative Committee (BATSICC) to move Brimbank’s Australia Day citizenship ceremony to January 23.
Each year, the council has traditionally hostedacitizenshipceremonyandbarbecueon January 26, in line with previous requirements under the Australian citizen ceremonies code.
In December 2022, the federal government announced an update to the code, to allow councils to hold Australia Day citizenship ceremonies on January 26, or on the three days before and after the date.
The decision to shift the ceremony date was a bone of contention across the council chamber, particularly for councillor Maria Kerr who said she was ‘disappointed’ that the entire community was not consulted on the matter.
On multiple occasions, deputy mayor Ranka Rasic, who was chairing the meeting, had to ask members seated in the gallery to stop disrupting the meeting.
Councillor Jasmine Nguyen continued to speakthroughtheuproarfromresidentsseated inthegalleryandsaid shesawnoproblemwith
movingthecitizenshipceremonytoanewdate.
“I just want to note that this notice of motion was moved already earlier this year in February, [and] we’ve already gone through [the] community consultation process,” she said.
“We engaged with the people who are most impacted by holding the ceremony on this day.”
Councillor Victoria Borg attempted to defer the motion to the next council meeting to allow councillors more time to debate over the matter, but the motion was defeated and the original motion was eventually passed.ed.
A further report on options and recommendations on how to acknowledge January 26 will be presented to council next year.
What a pleasure it was celebrate the winners of our annual Short Story Competition recently. We have some amazingly talented writers in our city and this year, we were flooded with hundreds of entries submitted across all three categories: Junior, Teen and Adult. All entries were of an incredibly high standard, making it no easy task for the judges to choose the winners. Well done to everyone who got involved.
I would also like to congratulate all the participants who graduated from our Daughters of the West (DOTW) program last week. The commitment these women have shown to focus on their health and wellbeing and become the best version of themselves is to be commended.
And finally, we are proud to be hosting a series of free and low-cost activities to celebrate the This Girl Can program. This Girl Can is an empowering campaign that supports women and girls to embrace physical activity in a way that suits them. Whether it’s a little or a lot, what matters is getting some movement into your day. It doesn’t matter if you’re a newbie or a regular, all that matters is you’re giving it a go. From 9 until 15 October, activities on offer include trampoline fitness, Bollywood dance, tennis cardio, soccer, plus so much more. For more information and to book please visit 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
Showcasing a mix of performance, music and visual arts, Reimagine Melton will be held on 6 and 7 October and will transform the heart of Melton Town Centre into a vibrant hub of creativity and family entertainment.
This free, all-ages event will light up the amphitheatre and Bakery Square on Friday and Saturday nights with a series of visual art including animated projections by artist Isobel Knowles.
Highlights across both nights include an interactive digital installation that uses AI to create unique portraits of audience members in real time and LED hologram technology that creates the illusion of moving animations suspended in mid-air.
On Saturday night there will be entertainment and activities available for the whole family, with interactive exhibits, roaming performers, live music and more.
This event is supported by the Melton Suburban Revitalisation Board and the Victorian Government. Visit melton.vic.gov.au/reimagine
Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial
The Melton Seniors Festival is back - and it is bigger and better than ever.
From cultural celebrations to art courses, rock concerts, fitness sessions and more, Melton’s seniors’ community can look forward to a bumper month of activities on offer during October.
This year’s Melton Seniors Festival will feature close to 50 events – and while many of the events are free, bookings are essential.
Getting involved in the festival is a fantastic way for seniors to connect with others, follow their interests, try their hand at something new and make new friends.
The Melton Seniors Festival will run from 1 – 31 October. To find out more visit melton.vic.gov.au/seniorsfestival or drop into the Melton or Caroline Springs Library.
Last month, I had the pleasure of attending the official opening of the Taylors Hill Recreation Reserve Pavilion – an initiative I advocated for, and progressed, back in 2020.
The pavilion delivers a new social space, kitchen, and amenities, along with two additional change rooms, expanded umpire change rooms, and a meeting room, all built in-line with sporting guidelines and all-inclusive access.
A massive win for our local community and sporting clubs. Asking the question, R U OK? can make a real difference to someone who might be struggling with life. That’s why it was a real joy to pop into Brookside P-9 College on 14 September to attend their R U OK? day program, where students participated in activities to teach them how to start meaningful conversations.
Well done to the Wellness Team at Brookside for a fantastic day. And remember, it’s OK to ask R U OK? any day.
Spring is here, bringing with it sunshine, warmer weather, and rain, which means grass is likely to grow quicker over the coming months. While Council is working hard to ensure grassed areas are kept tidy, the grass at your local park may get a little longer than normal.
Rest assured though, our crews will be out mowing regularly, and you can report any areas of concern on our website.
Please feel free to contact me for Cambridge Ward or Council related issues on 0437 231 680 or steve.abboushi@melton.vic.gov.au, or like my Facebook page @AbbsMelton
Brimbank council has welcomed the Victorian government’s housing statement, but has maintained its strong opposition to any plans to ‘water down’ the role of council.
Premier Daniel Andrews unveiled the planning and housing statement on Wednesday, September 20, detailing how the state government will clear a backlog of 1400 housing permit applications that have been stuck with councils for more than six months.
Planning decisions will also be centralised with the Planning Minister set to replace
councils as the decision maker for significant residential developments that include affordable housing.
Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire said while council is encouraged by the state government’s commitment to increasing housing supply, the statement falls short of addressing the urgent need for social and affordable housing.
“Unmet housing need in Brimbank is at an all-time high, with an estimated shortfall of more than 4,000 social and affordable dwellings in Brimbank,” he said.
“... In line with Brimbank’s Social and Affordable Housing position statement,
council is advocating for practical actions by the Victorian and Commonwealth governments to increase housing supply, particularly social and affordable housing.”
Included in the suite of housing reforms announced by the premier, the Department of Transport and Planning will also lead the delivery of seven ‘priority precincts’ across Victoria, focused on building communities around major transport and services hubs, with Sunshine identified as one of seven.
Prior to the announcement, Brimbank council launched its strong opposition to plans from the state government to strip local councils of some planning powers.
The state government’s position follows the Operation Sandon report handed down in late July by the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC), which revealed instances of corrupt conduct involving councillors and property developers within Casey council.
“As the mayor of Brimbank, I strongly oppose any attempts to use IBAC’s findings of one council’s conduct to water down the role of all 79 councils in planning processes,” Cr Lancashire said at the time.
“Greater local government involvement in major planning decisions remains in the best interest of local communities.”
Keilor’s own Little Athletics champs, Leila and Brandon, are set to head off to the Gold Coast following an invitation to attend the 2023 national high-performance camp in October.
Based on individual performances at the recent 2023 Australian Little Athletics Championships and state events, top-performing athletes born in 2009 from across Australia have been invited to compete.
Recently, Leila took out the top spot for the high jump at the 2023 LAVIC State Track and Field Championships, while Brandon won the triple jump at the 2023 Australian National Track and Field Championship.
The camp is designed to offer each athlete an opportunity to improve themselves, on the track, in recovery, preparation, psychology and a better understanding of the journey and process that is required to assist with their own development, in the high-performance
pathway.
Leila is currently in her ninth season at the Keilor Little Athletics Centre, and said she is
excited to be given the opportunity to attend the camp.
“I’m looking forward to making some new
connections with people from all around Australia, but I’m also a little nervous about going,” she said.
Brandonsaidheisexcitedtoreceivecoaching from some of Australia’s top coaches and learn from them about the journey to becoming an Olympian.
“My favourite part about triple jump is combininglotsofsportsthatIlove…running, hopping, jumping, travelling around Australia to compete and meeting new people along the way,” he said.
Olympic gold medallist Glynis Nunn, who is the driving force behind the camp since it began11yearsago,saidsheisalwayspleasedto be able to contribute to the development of up and coming Little Athletes.
“Nothing gives me more pleasure than to see Little Athletes performing at their best and enjoyingthemselvesatthesametime,”shesaid.
Brimbank council has approved plans for a residential aged care facility at 27 Driscolls Road, Kealba.
Ryman Healthcare will transform the six-hectare vacant site of the former Kealba Secondary College.
The plan allows for a retirement village to be built with 140 independent living units, including two and three-bedroom single storey dwellings, a central four-storey residential aged care building accommodating approximately 54 assisted living apartments and 80 rooms for aged care use.
In 2019, a developer took plans to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) seeking to build 196 residential lots and dwellings on the site after being knocked back by council.
The approval by VCAT was conditional on providing pedestrian access to Bellara Crescent Reserve, retention of several trees and changes to the crossovers and kerb layout.
Anearlierdevelopmentplanin2018,which proposed to build 208 residential lots and dwellings on the site, was refused by council, with the refusal upheld by VCAT on appeal.
Cr Virignia Tachos said the Kealba community has been on a ‘long’ journey to reach this stage.
“... There is a real need for greater independent residential aged care facilities in Brimbank,” she said.
“We have an aging community, and whilst this plan is still in its early stages … I believe that this development plan is a huge improvement. It’s respectful to the character of the surrounds of Kealba, and I’m very happy to support this development plan.”
During the public consultation process, council received nine submissions, all of
The king of rock ‘n’ roll will have his spirit embodied at an upcoming tribute show to raise money for St Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Caroline Springs.
On Saturday, October 28 award-winning Elvis tribute artist Sean Luke Spiteri will perform Elvis’ greatest hits from Blue Suede Shoes, Love me Tender, Burning Love and An American Trilogy at the CRC Performing Arts Centre.
“I will be backed by my live band plus a brass section with a stunning lighting show,” he said.
“It’s going to be a huge concert experience. I may also sing one or two gospel songs that Elvis recorded.”
Genesis Entertainment is helping organise the event, and promoter Matthew Spiteri said raising money is a special opportunity.
“This is my local parish. My children were baptised here. It was a great honour to receive the call from Father Richard to help put this event together for him,” he said.
“Elvis was incredibly religious. He disliked being called The King of Rock ’n’ Roll, he would say ‘There is only one King and that’s Jesus’s Christ’.
“Elvis would always sing Gospel Music after all his concerts to help him unwind after a big concert.”
Father Richard Rosse said he’s excited to bring joy to people through music.
“I am hoping it brings the community together for a social gathering for this very special event,” he said.
“We hope that people will join us for this amazing night. If it is a success we are hoping tobringitbackeachyearforthecommunity.”
Tickets and information are available online or 1300 001 238.
Details: www.123tix.com.au
AspartofthenationalAussieBirdCountweek, which runs from October 15-22, Brimbank council will be hosting a guided twilight bird survey at Sydenham Park.
Nowinitstenthyear,theAussieBirdCountis Australia’s largest annual citizen science event, with around 100,000 people participating each year.
The Aussie Bird Count will be used to help Brimbank council and BirdLife Australia develop an understanding of local birds.
Participants will be using the Aussie Bird Count App to record what birds are spotted during the survey.
Participants are reminded to, wear a pair of
sturdy shoes, long trousers, long sleeve top and hat, dress for the weather, bring a water bottle and snacks if needed, use the bathroom before arrival as there are no toilets in the park, and are recommended to register for the Aussie Bird Count and download the app.
The bird count event is open to beginners. Kids are welcome, but must be supervised. No dogs are allowed as the park is a nature reserve.
The Aussie Bird Count will take place on Thursday, October 19, from 5.30-7pm at the Keilor Public Golf Course, 540 Calder Freeway in Keilor North.
Registration is required.
Details: https://shorturl.at/cdlvI
which opposed the proposed plan.
Key issues of concern were the removal of trees and bushes to make way for the development, as well as increased traffic congestion in the area.
The approved planallows for139 treesto be removed, on the condition that the developer replant street and park trees. The plan also notes that 32 mature trees will remain on site and be maintained.
Two vehicle entrance points will be provided via Driscolls Road, which will act as driveways to allow for two-way traffic movements through the site.
In an Australian first, an Aboriginal Healing Unit has opened at the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre (DPFC) in Ravenhall.
The unit aims to provide new culturally safe, community-led and trauma-informed programs for Aboriginal women in custody.
Corrections Minister Enver Erdogan visited the centre on September 18, to open the new unit which includes specially designed accommodation alongside culturally appropriate spaces.
The new facilities include a sensory room, activities room with facilities for art programs, an outdoor cultural area with art-inspired screening and native plantings, and a yarning circle featuring symbolic mosaics and a fire pit area.
Outdoor spaces feature traditional grasses for weaving, Aboriginal totems for various clan groups and a gum tree to provide leaves for cultural ceremonies.
Programs will focus on the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal women within DPFC, and work to support reintegration in a respectful, therapeutic way, with mentoring from Elders and Respected Persons and support to build essential life skills in a safe space for those in both remand and sentenced custody.
Corrections Minister Enver Erdogan said the establishment of the unit is ‘one small step’ towards making the justicesystemsaferandmoreculturally appropriate.
“Reducing the over representation of Aboriginal people in custody is critical and the new Aboriginal Healing Unit will help to address the causes of offending and keep people from coming back into custody,” he said.
The state government has invested $8.8 million for the new unit and programs which will be delivered by Aboriginal community controlled organisation Elizabeth Morgan House.
Aboriginal women at DPFC and community members helped inform the design of the Aboriginal Healing Unit, ensuring the space and programs support the spiritual and cultural needs of Aboriginal women in custody.
The state government said this new unit supports reforms to improve Aboriginal cultural safety for people in custody, stemming from recent coronial investigations and the Cultural Review of the Adult Custodial Corrections System that was released in March.
By Hannah Hammoud
Brimbank council will look at ways to improve community safety following a number of shocking crimes in recent months. Cr Thomas O’Reilly called for a safety report at the council meeting on September 19, following a number of incidents that have occurred in Brimbank overthepastfewmonthsrelatedtoyouthcrime.
Cr O’Reilly said the report will allow councillors to learn more about what is being done to address the situation, note any gaps and to provide strategic suggestions on how community safety could be improved.
Cr Maria Kerr expressed her support for safetyreport,butwasinterruptedbydisruptive members of the public gallery. Deputy mayor Ranka Rasic pleaded with those seated in the gallery to stop disturbing the meeting.
The meeting was adjourned for more than 10 minutes before resuming, only to be paused againaminutelaterforthesamereason,before subsequently returning nine minutes later once some members of the gallery followed orders to leave the meeting.
Cr Kerr said she has been advocating to the state government for more police resources in Brimbank and the west since 2016.
The A+ Abbey Solo Foundation is hosting a spring market fundraiser to help raise money to support families of children with cancer.
In 2009, at three years old, Abbey was diagnosedwithLeukaemia.Fromthen,Abbey underwent a gruelling treatment journey of six years before she died in 2015 aged 9.
The foundation was established to help keep Abbey’s vision alive.
The foundation helps families with timely and practical support while navigating their child’s cancer treatment. Some of the support offered includes parking vouchers, fuel vouchers, emergency accommodation, food, and funeral expenses.
Earlier this year, the Abstar Youth Committee was formed with a group of passionate members from age 7 through to 17.
PresidentofthecommitteeOliviaBarbounis said she had known Abbey since they were both just three months old, when their mums
met through a shared mothers group.
“I’ve been told we were two kids who just clicked right away with one another, and we had birthdays that were one day apart,” she said.
“We both shared the common interests of loving ballet, dance and toys.”
Olivia said Abbey’s dream was to help keep families together at their most vulnerable time.
“Abbey was wise beyond her years. Togetherness was so important to her,” Olivia said.
In order to raise much needed funds for the foundation, the youth committee is hosting a market fundraiser at the Kensington Town Hall on Sunday, October 1, from 10.30am to 3.30pm.
Details: https://shorturl.at/wyN47
“More specifically, floating the idea of a police hub at Water Gardens station. This is a location where youth crime is concentrated. We also need more CCTV in problematic locations, more lighting and of course more funding from the state government for more police in our already stretched police force in the western metro area,” she said.
“... I call on the state government to stop ignoring our communities’ safety.”
A Victoria Police spokesperson said police are focused on disrupting and dismantling youth gangs.
“Brimbank police are investing significant
energy into intercepting young people who are yet to become firmly embedded within gangs as soon as they come on our radar and diverting them to support agencies,” the spokesperson said.
“As part of Operation Alliance, police are also regularly knocking on their doors for bail compliance checks, saturating locations where we know they frequent and are likely to offend and gathering further intelligence on their activities and their associates.”
A state government spokesperson said the allocation of police resources is a matter for the Victoria Police Chief Commissioner.
Council has identified mental health as a top advocacy priority for the municipality, following the endorsement of its draft Brimbank advocacy plan.
At the council meeting on September 19, council endorsed the plan which identifies gold, silver and bronze priorities.
Mentalhealthwasstampedasagoldpriority, alongside the delivery of the Transforming Brimbank program which encompasses the Sunshine Priority Precinct, Albion Station, Sunshine Station, Albion Quarter, Sunshine
Energy Park and an integrated transport strategy.
The new set of advocacy priorities are outlined for the upcoming two years, until 2025, and were determined through a series of workshops, and one-on-one interviews with councillors based on feedback they received directly from the community.
Councillor Virginia Tachos said each of the identified priorities are important to ensure the community is provided with adequate funding, infrastructure, investment and support.
“I’m proud that this council has recognised
the importance of mental health being a key issue and that we will do everything we can to support our community, not just to survive but to thrive,” she said.
The delivery of the Transforming Brimbank program is set to respond to an influx of investment in Melbourne’s west.
Cr Tachos said this investment will enable theconstructionofkeyinfrastructureprojects that will get the west moving again, “literally and economically“.
As part of the advocacy plan, silver category priorities were advocating for pathways to employment, as well as road Infrastructure,
RoyalFreemasonsSpringtimeresidentialaged care home has joined forces with students from Catholic Regional College in Sydenham (CRC) for an intergenerational program.
Year11and12CRCstudentsrecentlyvisited the home to play board games with residents, sing karaoke, and share gifts and stories.
The initiative was spearheaded by CRC student Stephen Condello, whose grandfather is a resident at Springtime.
Stephensuggestedorganisingactivitieswith the residents to his religious education teacher as a way of giving back to the community.
The idea has now grown into a program that
will become a permanent part of the college’s community service module for applied religion.
CRC applied religious education teacher Dale Sutton said so far the program has been a huge success with both the residents and students.
“It helps the students to be more aware of other people in the community, to give back, and be thankful for what they have,” he said.
Next year, students will visit Springtime residents every two weeks and organise a variety of fun activities for them to enjoy.
The college will also hold two fundraising
activities next year to raise money for Springtime’s lifestyle activities program.
Springtime facility manager Kristy Lim said it has been wonderful to see the older and younger generations come together.
“Our residents have absolutely loved spending time with the students. We are also very grateful for CRC’s commitment to fundraise for our home next year. We look forward to continuing and growing the partnership to find different ways to create meaningful outcomes for residents and greater connection between generations,” she said.
including the Calder Freeway, Taylors Road, RobinsonsRoad,BallaratRoadandSydenham Road.
The bronze category featured local business support and climate emergency. While it was deemed ‘business as usual’ for continued advocacy regarding the Melbourne Airport third runway, major parks and playgrounds, electronic gaming machines and gambling and the Calder Park Station.
Council said it is also strongly advocating for the recommitment by both state and federal governments to the Suburban Rail Link Airport project.
Brimbank council said it is unlikely to reach its target of achieving a 50 per cent landfill diversion rate without introducing a universal Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO) service by 2030.
Councildelivereditswasterecycling and litter strategy community report card for the past year at the council meeting on September 19.
Brimbank’s diversion rate for 2022-23 was 42 per cent, with more than 30,700 tonnes of waste being recycled.
Council currently has an opt-in FOGO service with about 63 per cent of households having the optional green waste recycling bin.
The state government will require all council’s to introduce a universal FOGO service by 2030, but the waste report noted that council may wish to consider doing so in advance of the 2030 deadline to help meet its own waste strategy targets.
Cr Virginia Tachos said that whilst moderate increases are happening in Brimbank with regards to the diversion away from landfill rate, it will not be until the universal FOGO service is introduced that Brimbank will see ‘real’ reduction in waste.
Brimbank households were applaudedforachievingasignificantly improved FOGO contamination rate of 1.7 per cent compared to 3.28 per cent recorded over the 2021-22 period.
With summer just around the corner, Australians are sitting down to plan their next holiday, take leave from work and hopefully not have their flight cancelled.
A local disability services and support organisation is helping make travel accessible for all residents through its latest travel initiative.
Distinctive Options Travel (DO Travel) launched this year after five preliminary trips in 2022, and is dedicated to opening up the world for people with disabilities.
Business development manager Paul Pearman said anyone who requires support to go on holiday can use the provider, in particular participants on the National
Disability Insurance (NDIS) Scheme. “NDIS funds enable DO Travel to provide the support staff to travel with them,” he said. “Support can be provided on a one on one basis or there may be one support person for a small group.
“Some people have been to the Gold Coast for a winter break with a one to one support worker, while others have joined our group expeditions.
“We take the time to understand the barriers people have faced in the past and will do everything possible to make sure we are able to provide the support required before finalising your travel.”
MrPearmansaidtheyhavenoticedademand for supported holidays and will be hiring more
staff so they can offer a variety of new holidays.
“Werecentlysupportedagroupoffunloving participants to go on a Queensland cruise to Moreton Island out of Sydney… We have also ran a 3 day local trip to Ballarat and Sovereign Hill.
“People with disabilities have dreams of travel yet may not have the resources available to them to conceptualise or complete the trip.”
Mr Pearman said the service is open to any participants on the NDIS scheme, no matter wheretheylive.DistinctiveOptionshascentres in Sunbury, Macedon Ranges, Brimbank and Bendigo.
The Brimbank Croquet Club is extending an invitation to the local community to try their hand at croquet.
To mark the beginning of Seniors Month, which runs throughout October, the club will be hosting a free, come and try day event for locals to learn to play croquet as well as meet and make new friends.
Brimbank Croquet Club member Sue Pattison said croquet is a sport for all ages and fitness levels. The low-impact sport is particularly appealing to an older demographic as it is played on a flat ground at a comfortable pace, with minimal bending required.
“Our come and try day is open to anyone
and everyone. Mainly the people that play croquet are retirees, but croquet is something that anyone and any age group can play and enjoy,” she said.
TheBrimbankCroquetClubusesthecourts of the Victorian Croquet association based in Cairnlea, and is always open to welcoming new members to join the club.
The come and try day event will take place on Tuesday, October 3 from 9.30am at 65 Nobel Banks Drive in Cairnlea.
Morning tea will be provided, followed by a sausage sizzle lunch.
Registrationisrequired.RSVPbyThursday, September 28, through text 0409 931 871 or email bcroquetclub@gmail.com.
Seniors Month Celebrate Seniors Month in Brimbank with a range of activities hosted by Brimbank council in October. Try your hand at social pickleball, dancing bingo, water workouts and more. Details: https://www.brimbank.vic.gov. au/EVENTS?page=2
Tradies Surf Challenge returns Surfing Victoria and WorkSafe Victoria have announced the return of the WorkSafe Tradies Surf Challenge at URBNSURF this October. The event will take place on October 29, and aims to bring together surfing tradies from around the state to Australia’s first wave park for a fun and relaxing surfing competition. Limited entries are now open via www.surfingvic.com
Police impound motorcycles
A Taylors Lakes man is among two people who are set to be charged after being caught travelling nearly triple the speed limit in west Melbourne. Police first spotted the learner riders inbound on Footscray Road, where they were detected on laser travelling 116km/h in a 40km/h zone about 8pm on September 17. Police pulled over two men, a 21-year-old from Taylors Lakes and a 19-year-old from Camberwell. Both bikes were impounded by police for 30 days at a cost of $896.10 each.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT
Web: starweekly.com.au
Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
From 8pm Sunday 8 October until 7am Saturday 2 December 2023, the Wurundjeri Way and Dudley Street intersection will be closed. This is so crews can continue building a new city bypass that will remove traffic from the CBD and better connect the north, city, and the western suburbs.
During this time, Footscray Road will be reduced to one lane in each direction between Shepherd Bridge and Waterfront Way. Use Dynon Road instead.
We understand these closures may be disruptive to you. Thanks for your ongoing patience as we work as quickly and safely as possible to get the job done.
Remember to plan ahead and allow for extra travel time.
TamanGrillHouse,whichwasestablishedin 2021, is a family run and owned restaurant.
The journey has allowed its founders to follow their dreams and open a traditional European grill house with a modern Australian twist.
With 10 years of experience cooking in the finest restaurants across Melbourne, the Taman Grill House head chef is excited to present a vision of fine food to be enjoyed by all guests.
The caring and committed staff ensure diners have a fantastic experience each
and every time.
Taman Grill House is now taking bookings for Christmas parties and family catchups. The team also hosts birthdays, baptisms, gender reveals and many more rememberable events. Whether it be in-house or through Taman Grill House’s catering service, you will be able to find all the information on the website at www. tamangrillhouse.com.
Look out for weekly specials including Thursday steak night, Friday parma night and plenty of other weekly specials.
The Silos Bistro at the Sunshine City Club is now available for events.
The Silos Bistro team has been working hard behind the scenes to put together a special offering to help patrons curate their next celebration. The function room is available and caters for up to 50 guests with a connecting beer garden and bowling green. Call the team and book in your next event. Take a look at the Silos’ comprehensive
packages on the website at www. sunshinecityclub.com.au/functions
Contact Geoff 0400 749 859 or Diana 0425 330 811 for your next function.
SilosBistroisopenTuesdaytoFriday.Pasta night is on Tuesday, from 5.30pm – 8.30pm, for just $16. Parma night is on Thursday, from 5.30pm– 8.30pm, for just $17, Sunday carvery for just $20. You can also catch a live band from 8.30pm every Saturday.
Lunch: Tuesday - Sunday from 12.00pm - 2.00pm
Dinner: Tuesday - Saturday 5.30pm - 8.30pm
With the days getting longer and the nights getting warmer, what better way to spend an evening than watching the sky change from day to night, the city skyline light up and the best menu on offer in Braodmeadows.
City View Bistro, the dining experience at Melbourne Greyhounds – The Meadows - has released a new menu for spring. Mouth-watering 300 gram chargrilled porterhouse stakes are available in two different options; a classic surf ‘n’ turf topped with crispy tiger prawns and a chimichurri drizzle, served with fat cut chips and house salad or a not-so-traditional option served with duck fat roasted potatoes and seasonal greens, finished with a pink peppercorn jus.
After a different protein? There is pork ‘three’ ways, or pork belly salad as well as chicken schnitzel or karaage options.
Seafood options abound with flathead fillets, city view marinara tossed with spaghetti and a pan fired barramundi on seasonal greens. On the topic of greens, the roasted vegetable stack is joined by potato gnocchi as the vegetarian main options.
Start your night with eggplant chips or popcorn chicken to name a few starters and complete the experience with ice cream ‘nachos’ death by chocolate, or pannacotta, just two of the new desserts that join sticky date pudding as the perfect way to finish the night.
A look over the extensive beverage list reveals a fresh rose that matches the peach tones in the city skyline as the sun sets, or if the night is feeling rich, celebrate with a good red, there are plenty to choose from.
(Pictures: Supplied)
Lastly of note the ‘chef’s specials’ change weekly, to keep things fresh, especially if you have become a regular. Once again chef Steve Collins has delivered an outstanding array of options. Pair these dishes with the all-new wine list selected by the hospitality manager extraordinaire, Harrison Thackray and you will understand how one night out at City View Bistro will not be enough.
Bookings can be made at melbournegreyhounds.org.au or by calling (03) 9355 5222.
The days are getting longer and the nights are getting warmer. What better way to spend an evening than watching the sky change from day to night, the city skyline light up and the best menu on offer in Braodmeadows.
City View Bistro, the on-site dining experience at Melbourne Greyhounds - The Meadows has released a new menu for spring. If you have never dined with us before why not try somewhere new? If you have dined with us, come back and try the new delights we have on offer.
Either way, come on down to The Meadows this Saturday!
Bookings can be made at melbournegreyhounds.org.au or by calling (03) 9355 5222
Brimbank council has endorsed its 2023 governance rules after the matter was defered at the previous council meeting.
Council was scheduled to adopt the new rules at the council meeting on August 22, but a motion moved by councillor Jasmine Ngyuen cited the need for further discussion toconsiderpotentialamendmentstotherules.
“Having received feedback from the wider community … I do propose to councillors
that there needs to be further consideration of the governance rules,” Cr Ngyuen said at the time.
The proposed rules had undergone a three week period of community consultation with a majority of submissions received from residents referencing concerns about the introduction of rule 55.16 that allows the chair or a nominated council staff member to choose not to read out any part of a public question that is in the nature of a submission.
The submissions objected to the new rule
with concerns about the censoring or editing of public questions.
At the most recent meeting on September 19, councillors moved to endorse the new rules and acknowledged the ‘great deal’ of interest generated by the community.
Cr Victoria Borg said updates had been made to the wording of rule 55.16 which emphasised the intent of the rule was in the interest of maximising the number of questions that can be answered during the time allowed for public question time.
The Keilor Cup tournament is set to kick off this Thursday night, with more than 200 teams registered for this year’s blockbuster event. The tournament will have boys and girls teams from throughout Victoria compete in divisions from Under 7’s to Under 13’s for their chance to be crowned champions.
The games will start on Thursday night and are played in a knock-out style competition with finals set to be held on Sunday, October 1.
Vice president Nicole Camilleri said this year has the most number of teams playing in the tournament’s history. There are more
than 2300 participants registered to play, and a crowd of more than 8000 people are expected to attend over the four days.
“WehaveteamscomingfromasfarasPhillip Island and Albury. It’s fantastic to see that we have nearly 40 girls teams registered this year, double the amount from last year,” she said.
Camilleri said everyone is invited to come down and enjoy the tournament, with 2023 markingits23rdyearofbringingexcitementto the community.
“The Keilor Cup is completely organised and executed by volunteers. From line marking
grounds, scheduling fixtures, food and drink services, equipment set up, marshalling, score updates, presentations, it’s all done by the hardworking committee and club volunteers. We are extremely proud of this achievement and can’t be more thankful to the wonderful volunteers that work tirelessly to make our tournament one of the best in Victoria,” she said.
Details: https://keilorparksc.com.au/ keilorcup/
Hannah Hammoud“Lots of robust discussions were held to make the subsequent required changes,” she said.
Rule 55.17 was also updated to make it clear thatawrittencopyofquestionssubmittedand the answers provided at a meeting must be published in the minutes of the meeting.
Other key changes to the governance rules include, allowing virtual meetings ongoing and to create a mode of attendance process to include whether meetings will be held in person, virtual or hybrid.
Brimbank council’s Be Bold Festival returns with a fun-filled day of arts, culture and creativity on Saturday, October 7.
Thefestivalwillfeaturemusicfroma diverse range of groups including, the Brimbank Multicultural Community Choir, the Sin Frontera Band, the Burundian Drumming Group and 2Fiddle.Strings.
There will also be a special Resonate Youth Music Showcase that will bring to the stage a line-up of young and local emerging musicians.
The day will feature traditional cultural dances from Tinikling (The Philippines) and Kud Dukat (Bosnia), as well as a theatre installation Obang (Korea) in the Bowery Theatre for babies and their families.
Cooking demonstrations can be found in the Cultural Kitchen, with chef Shane Delia cooking up Middle Eastern favourites, plus local cooks who will create Malaysian, Cameroonian, Vietnamese and Indian dishes.
OutontheovalatErringtonReserve will be a large-scale interactive art installation of the giant L?c Long Quân to celebrate Vietnamese culture, as well as exhibitions in the Bowery Gallery by artists Callum Watson, Liam San Jose and Lee Agius.
Therewillbesomethingforeveryone to enjoy at the festival with a range of creative workshops and activities including, Paint in the Dark drop-in sessions, Boomerang throwing with Uncle Ian Hunter, Kooky Karnival games, and more.
Details: creativebrimbank.com.au/ bbf
Remote areas of Timor-Leste are getting improved access to clean water and working toilets thanks to a project managed by Rotary Club of Caroline Springs president Vijay Susarla.
TheprojectisbeingdeliveredthroughRotary International’s water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH)programs,inwhichRotary’speopleof action mobilise resources, form partnerships, and invest in infrastructure and training that yield long-term change.
Since 2017, the Timor-Leste WASH project has delivered 62 water tanks and seven toilets.
Through late August and early September
Mr Susarla with consortium member Justine Paragreen visited Timor-Leste on a scoping trip for the next stage of the WASH project to assess 12 potential sites for toilet blocks and water tanks in several villages, as the project expands from the Baucau District, into the Manatuto and Viqueque Districts.
In this next stage, the consortium is hoping to fund the installation of a further 20 5,500L watertanksandthreetoiletblocks-madeupof three cubicles, with handwashing facilities and WASH training.
The team met with the chief of each village, members of the Ministry of Health and Timorese government, committees, religious leaders, teachers, and community members, as well as Engineers Without Borders (EWB).
Along the way, the team visited Manlala, where42of124houseswhichhostanaverageof 20 residents were without toilets, and infection is common, as well as schools including Liaholiho School in the village of Afalocai which has no toilets, water or hand washing facilities for their 30 students.
Mr Susarla said his fifth trip to Timor-Leste was a rewarding experience.
“It is a very tough place to travel around, moving 20kms can take three hours,” he said.
“It is a very hard area, but the reason we go back is because we are helping.
“People say they appreciate us being their to care for people in the remote areas…It is definitely rewarding, at the end of the day.”
Mr Susarla said he hopes construction will begin for the latest round of tanks and toilets by June next year.
Liam McNallySchool holiday fun is well underway across all Brimbank libraries with a range of creative and educational activities on offer for local kids.
At the start of the September holidays, Brimbanklibrarieskickedoffanaction-packed superhero-themed program, with lots of activities and events running until Sunday, October 3.
Star Weekly photographer Jacob Pattison visitedthecomicdecoupageactivityheldatthe Deer Park Library to capture all the creativity in action.
PRINT AND PRINT AND PRINT AND ONLINE SALES ONLINE SALES ONLINE SALES
EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE
REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED
40 years ago
September 28, 1983
Jobs and community projects are the big winners following this week’s setting of the rates by Sunshine Council.
30 years ago
September 29, 1993
Children would continue to suffer abuse and some would die as a result of funding cuts to welfare services, according to the manager of Western Family Services in Footscray, Mr David Murray.
20 years ago
September 23, 2003
Residents surrounding a proposed estate in Hillside are up in arms over what they say will become a traffic hazard.
10 years ago
September 24, 2013
Investigations continue into a Deer Park house fire that killed two people early last Friday.
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
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication
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
Social pickleball
Celebrate Seniors Month in October 2023
with a weekly special pickleball event that runs every Monday over October. Brimbank council is inviting locals of all skill levels to join the activity at the Keilor Basketball and Netball Stadium on October 2, from 9am to noon.
■ https://www.trybooking.com/CKQFG
Dancing bingo
St Bernadette Seniors and Social Club is inviting seniors to attend Dancing Bingo on October 3 from 9.30am-12.30pm at 21 Cooke Avenue, North Sunshine. No cost to participate along with free morning tea and refreshments.
■ www.trybooking.com/CKPTX
Active Discovery Day: Golf clinic
As part of the Victorian Seniors Festival, Brimbank council is inviting locals for a free come and try Golf Clinic with PGA Professional Scott Wearne. The event will take place at the Keilor Golf Course on October 3. Session one will run from 10-11am and session two from 11am to noon. Bookings are essential.
■ https://www.trybooking.com/CKQGL
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
National Seniors Australia - Deer Park
Deer Park Branch of National Seniors Australia host a lunch on the third Friday of each month at different venues. The group also arrange activities each month, sometimes to the Theatre, Morning Melodies, train or bus trip. The group also holds a General Meeting at The Club in Caroline Springs on the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm. Locals are invited to join in for lunch or just attend the meeting and make new friends.
■ Pamela, pcostello46@hotmail.com.
Sunshine Halloween Street Party
The Sunshine Halloween Street Party will return this year on Tuesday, October 31. The event will take place along Hampshire Road from 4-7pm. The family-fun day will feature trick or treating, face painting, costume parade and street performers.
■ https://shorturl.at/dknIW
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.
Sunshine Repair Cafe
Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Café in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.
■ sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082
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
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
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
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
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
SUDOKU
No.
ACROSS
1 One who believes in sharing evenly amongst the community (9)
6 Temperate (4)
10 Poem (3)
11 Armour that covers the chest (11)
12 To make more attractive (8)
13 Difficult (6)
14 Puerto Rican actor, – Guzmán (4)
15 Expresses disapproval (7)
20 Supervisors (7)
21 Landlocked West African country (4)
25 Discharge (6)
26 Producing haze (8)
28 Ornamentation (11)
29 Phone program (abbr) (3)
30 Preservative (4)
31 Visible features of an area (9)
DOWN
1 Grow rapidly (8)
2 A species of buttercup (8)
3 Heads of a monastery (6)
4 Beyond words, indescribable (9)
5 Examine (4)
7 Roma is its capital (6)
8 Dragnet (6)
9 Work; use (7)
16 Height (9)
17 Line dividing the earth and the sky (7)
18 Vista (8)
19 First name of Italian composer Verdi (8)
22 Strata (6)
23 Sudden gust of wind (6)
24 Indicates (6)
27 One of the seasons (US) (4)
1
M N A
I E
10 words: Good
15 words: Very good
20
S
S
A N G N
assign, ASSIGNING, gags, gains, gassing, gins, nags, nisi, sags, sang, sans, sign, signing, signs, sing, singing, sings, sins, snag, snags
QUICK QUIZ
S E N D A D D Y A W A R E M A N I A N I C E R S T E R N
2 The 80-foot Uniroyal tyre that was used as a ferris wheel at the New York 1964-1965 World’s Fair is now located in which US state?
3 Which Boston Celtic great was also known as ‘The Chief’?
4 What type of food is pecorino?
5 Who directed the film Dances with Wolves (1990)?
6 In which country was the world’s largest firework lit, on February 8, 2020?
7 What is the name of Stan’s sister in South Park?
8 Which English alternative rock band formed in Sheffield in 1978 and was fronted by Jarvis Cocker (pictured)?
9 In what year did superhero Spider-Man first appear?
10 True or false: the falcon can fly at speeds of over 400km per hour?
Today’s Aim: 3 LETTERS ARC ARE COL EAT GUT HAT HER HE'S HUH ILL KEN NEE NIP OAF OVA ROW SKI TIE TRY VAT VET WEB WIN YET 4 LETTERS BATS CLEF DOTE FOES HITS NEAR NEST ODES ROOT SLAY SODA TSAR YAMS YMCA 5 LETTERS ACTED ACUTE ADMIT ALIVE ALOUD ANTIC AORTA ARENA AROSE ASHES ASPEN ATLAS AVERT AWING BRUSH CARGO CASED CRASH CRUDE DAIRY GUESS HATED INPUT MAPLE MINCE MINER NEEDS OILED PASTA PATIO RHINO SAUTE SHAMS SHOAL SIEGE SLEDS SNEER SPEED SPOON SPOTS STEER SWATS SWEET THEFT TIGER TILDE TOTES TRITE TULIP WAIVE 6 LETTERS CASTER ENTERS REWARD STRINE 7 LETTERS ERASERS HOSTILE INSANER ROUTINE SARDINE TRIBUTE 8 LETTERS ALARMING DEFIANCE DESERTED SHAFTING 12 345678910111213 1415 1617181920212223242526 U S T P R M I Z A J G Y K D O W V B L Q N E F X C H 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 29-09-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com 319568742 631895427 127486539 874219653 548127396 463952871 256743918 792634185 985371264 easy medium hard 758426139 325784691 561837942 619375428 196253784 482691375 243918567 874169253 937542816 293765814 582417369 978143625 817324596 761938452 154682973 645891237 439256781 326579148 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 XH ANSWERS: 1. Frostbite 2. Michigan 3. Robert Parish 4. Cheese 5. Kevin Costner 6. The US 7. Shelley 8. Pulp 9. 1962 10. False
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”. I G D D Y
•All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication.
•After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear.
• The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item.
• Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer.
• The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain.
The Minister for Planning has approved Amendment C217brim to the Brimbank Planning Scheme. The Amendment came into operation on 24 August 2023 when a notice was published in the Victoria Government Gazette.
The amendment corrects various provisions of the Brimbank Planning Scheme including mapping and ordinance corrections.
A copy of the Amendment can be inspected, free of charge, at the Department of Transport and Planning website at www.planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange a time to view the Amendment documentation. A copy of the Amendment can also be inspected, free of charge, at the offices of the Brimbank City Council, Brimbank Community and Civic Centre, 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine by contacting 9249 4000 to arrange a time to view the Amendment documentation and on the Brimbank City Council website at www.brimbank.vic.gov.au
(Council) made at its Council Meeting held on 19 September 2023, notice is given that at the Council Meeting to be held on 12 December 2023 it is the intention of the Council to declare a Special Rate (Special Rate or Scheme) under section 163(1) of the Local Government Act 1989 (Act). The purpose of the Scheme is to defray expenses to be incurred by the Council in providing funds to the St Albans Business Association Group Incorporated (SABGAI), which funds, administratively only and subject always to the approval, direction and control of the Council, to be used for the purposes of the appointment of a professional marketing coordinator, promotional, advertising, marketing, business development and other incidental expenses as are approved by the Council and agreed to between the Council and the SABGAI, all of which are associated with the encouragement of commerce, retail, and professional activity and employment in the St Albans Town Centre (Scheme Area or Centre).
The Special Rate will be based on geographic criteria, having regard to the location and the capital improved value of those commercially rateable properties in the Centre that are used, or reasonably capable of being used, for commercial, retail or professional purposes.
The Council considers that each rateable property and each business included in the Scheme Area that is liable or required to pay the Special Rate will receive a special benefit because the viability of the Centre as a commercial, retail and professional area will be enhanced through increased economic activity.
In performing functions and exercising powers in relation to activities associated with the encouragement of commerce and retail activity in the area for which it is proposed the Special Rate will be declared, the Council intends to levy and spend an amount of $159,987.84 for the first year of the Scheme, with such Special Rate amounts increasing at a rate of 2% per annum, raising in total an amount of $832,583.15 over the five year period of the Scheme.
The Special Rate is to be declared, and will remain in force, for a period of five years commencing on 1 July 2024 and ending on 30 June 2029.
For the period of the Scheme, the Special Rate will be declared and assessed as follows:
Each commercially rated property will be levied an amount that is based on capital improved value (CIV) currently 2023 that is multiplied by an amount of 0.0004313, combined with a minimum charge of $200 and a maximum charge of $3,000 in each year and increasing at a rate of 2% per annum.
The Street Name and Property Numbers (inclusively) included in the Scheme Area in St Albans includes: 2 – 70 and 171 Alfrieda Street, 1 & 7 Collins Street, 2 – 22, 30 & 32 and 1 - 23 East Esplanade, 18 Elaine Street, 1 Gratz Street, 276 – 334 and 315 - 329 Main Road East, 340 – 360 and 29 - 103 Main Road West, 25 - 27 McIvor Road, 22, 38, 52 & 70 McKechnie Street, 1 - 3 Princess Street, 2 & 4 and 3 & 5 St Albans Road, 10 – 26 and 17 Victoria Crescent.
The Special Rate will be levied by the Council sending a notice of levy annually to the persons who are liable or required to pay the Special Rate, which will require that the Special Rate must be paid in the following manner -
•by one annual payment to be paid in full by the due date fixed by the Council in the notice, which will be a date not less than 30 days after the date of issue of the notice; or
• by four instalments, to be paid by the dates which are fixed by the Council in the notice.
The properties proposed to be included in the Special Rate will be subject to revaluations and supplementary valuations each year in accordance with relevant legislation.
Council will consider cases of financial and other hardship and may reconsider other payment options for the Special Rate. There will be no incentives for payment of the Special Rate before the due dates for payment.
For the purposes of having determined the total amount of the Special Rate to be levied under the Scheme, the Council considers and formally determines for the purposes of sections 163(2)(a), (2A) and (2B) of the Act that the estimated proportion of the total benefits of the Scheme to which the performance of the function and the exercise of the power relates (including all special benefits and community benefits) that will accrue as special benefits to all of the persons who are liable to pay the Special Rate is in a ratio of 1:1 (or 100%). This is on the basis that, in the opinion of the Council, all of the services and activities to be provided from the expenditure of the Special Rate are marketing, promotion and advertising related and will accordingly only benefit those commercially rated properties and the businesses included in the Scheme that are used, or reasonably capable of being used, for retail, commercial or professional purposes.
Copies of the proposed declaration of the Special Rate (which includes a detailed schedule and map of all properties included in the Scheme Area and the amounts payable by each property) are available for inspection during normal office hours at the Council Customer Service Centre, 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine for a period of at least 28 days after the date of the publication of this notice, being until at least 26 October 2023.
Any person may make a written submission to the Council under sections 163A and 223 of the Act.
In addition, any person who will be required to pay the Special Rate to be imposed by the proposed declaration, whether an owner or an occupier of a property included in the Scheme, has a right to object to the proposed declaration and may also make a written objection to the Council under section 163B of the Act. An occupier is entitled to exercise the right of objection if they submit documentary evidence with the objection which shows that it is a condition of the lease under which the person is an occupier that the occupier is to pay the Special Rate.
Written submissions to be submitted to the Council under section 223 of the Act and written objections to be lodged with the Council under section 163B of the Act must be received by the Council by 5pm on 26 October 2023. Submissions and/or objections must be in writing and addressed to the Director City Futures C/- Brimbank City Council, PO Box 70, Sunshine 3020. Submissions can also be emailed to info@brimbank.vic.gov.au
Any person who has made a written submission under section 223 of the Act and has requested to be heard in support of their written submission is entitled to appear in person or to be represented by a person specified in the submission at the meeting of the St Albans Special Rate Hearing Committee at 6pm on 27 November 2023 at the Brimbank Community and Civic Centre, 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine.
Any person making a written submission under section 223 of the Act is advised that the Council is no longer required to make available for public inspection submissions received in accordance with section 223 of the Act. Accordingly, all submissions and personal information in submissions will be handled as authorised or required by law, including under the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014.
Council will consider any written submissions and take into account any objections in accordance with sections 163A, 163B and 223 of the Act.
Any persons requiring further information concerning the proposed declaration of the Special Rate should in the first instance contact Council’s St Albans Town Centre Place Manager on 9249 4000.
Kelvin Walsh Director City Futures12630366-JC39-23
1. Radio personality Chrissie Swan announced that an interview with which former sports star was the ‘worst experience’ of her career?
2. Australian runner Stewart McSweyn broke a 17-year national record at which Diamond League meeting racing event in Brussels?
3. Who will Australian Tim Tszyu fight in the highly anticipated fight on October 15th?
4. And which state will host the fight?
5. Which tennis tournament is returning to the summer season?
6. In climbing sports, what does the term ‘beta’ mean?
True or false: the Melbourne Demons were eliminated from the 2022 AFL finals season in straight sets (two losses)?
Which AFL team has never qualified for finals?
In the comedy film Dodgeball:ATrue UnderdogStory, what was the name of the underdog team?
Matildas goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold plays for which Super League club?
Which AFL star is known by the nickname Bazlenka?
12. Which legendary Australian athlete recently had a stand at Sydney’s Accor Stadium named after her?
13. Which NRL team used to be known by the name Eastern Suburbs?
14. Which Australian swimming star is known by the nicknames Arnie and Terminator?
15. Jamaica has won 87 Olympic medals in athletics and a single medal in what other event?
16. Which soccer coach was recently nominated for Men’s Best Coach at the annual FIFA Awards?
17. Former AFL star Dani Laidley played for and also coached which team?
18. NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers was injured in his first game with which team?
19. The Athletics are a Major League Baseball team based in which US city?
20. What nation is currently first place in the FIBA Men’s Basketball World Rankings?
21. GWS Giants coach Adam Kingsley played 170 games for which AFL club?
22. Which national cricket team did India defeat to win the 2023 ACC Men’s Asia Cup?
23. Australian golf professional Lucas Herbert hails from which regional Victorian city?
24. Matildas midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross plays for which Women’s Super League club?
25. Australian mixed martial artist Jack Della Maddalena competes in which UFC weight division?
Grand
The Brimbank City Council has prepared Amendment C214 to the Brimbank Planning Scheme. The amendment applies to all land in the municipality with the exclusion of land within the Sunshine Metropolitan Activity Centre.
The Amendment proposes to implement the draft Brimbank Development Contributions Plan 2022 (Brimbank DCP 2022) by replacing Schedule 2 to Clause 45.06 (Development Contributions Plan Overlay) with a new Schedule 2 and inserting the Brimbank DCP 2022 at Clause 72.04 (Incorporated Documents). It also proposes minor changes to Local Planning Policy by inserting relevant objectives, strategies and reference documents at Clause 21.11 (Community and Leisure Facilities).
You may inspect the Amendment, any documents that support the amendment and the explanatory report about the amendment, free of charge, at:
•the Brimbank City Council website at https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/building-and-planning/strategic-planningand-development/planning-scheme-amendments; and/or
•during office hours, the office of the planning authority, Brimbank City Council, 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine 3020;
•the Department of Transport and Planning website at http://www.planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange a time to view the Amendment documentation.
Any person who may be affected by the Amendment may make a submission to the planning authority about the Amendment. Submissions must be made in writing giving the submitter’s name and contact address, clearly stating the grounds on which the Amendment is supported or opposed and indicating what changes (if any) the submitter wishes to make.
Name and contact details of submitters are required for Council to consider submissions and to notify such persons of the opportunity to attend Council meetings and any public hearing held to consider submissions.
The closing date for submissions is 3rd November 2023. A submission must be sent using one of the following methods: post to the Strategic Planning Unit, (Brimbank City Council) PO Box 70, Sunshine 3020, email to strategicplanning@brimbank.vic.gov.au, or completing the online submission form at https://yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au/.
The planning authority must make a copy of every submission available at its office and/or on its website for any person to inspect free of charge for two months after the amendment comes into operation or lapses.
Kelvin Walsh Director City Futures26. How many ACC Men’s Asia Cup titles has India won?
27. Which Australian golf professional won the LPGA's 2023 Queen City Championship?
28. Which national team defeated Australia, for the first time in 69 years, at the 2023 Rugby World Cup?
29. By what score did South Africa defeat Australia in their 2023 series of five One Day Internationals?
30. Australian middle-distance runner Linden Hall holds the national record over which distance?
Classified deadlines for Tuesday, 3rd October issue of the Brimbank & Northwest Star Weekly as follows:
Thursday 28th September at 1.30pm
CONTRACT NO: 23/3276A
Panel for the Provision of Sustainable Catering Services
Tender closes 2.00pm, Tuesday 17/10/2023
Tender Documents are available to download from Council’s website www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/tenders
The MG HS +EV is a mid-sized SUV from the Chinese manufacturer that is making such an impact on the Australian market.
The name can be a little misleading because it’s not fully-electric but rather a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and so comes with a petrol engine together with a battery that can be charged in the same manner as an EV.
Plug-in hybrids are an excellent concept but in practice, at least at this stage of their development, they don’t make a lot of sense. Firstly, they are typically at least $10,000 more expensive as their petrol-only equivalents.
Secondly, because they use relatively small batteries, the EV-only range is quite low and once the battery has expired, they just become another hybrid but a tad heavier due to the battery.
The MG HS +EV competes against similarly-sized PHEVs such as the Mitsubishi Outlander, Ford Escape and the just-released Mazda CX-60. With driveaway prices starting at $49,690 it’s the cheapest of the four and comes with the longest (seven-year) warranty.
MG HS +EV comes in two variants, Excite and Essence. The latter was our test vehicle.
Styling
MG HS +EV is a neat and conservative vehicle without anything to make it stand out from the SUV crowd. The front is dominated by a large honeycomb grille with the familiar ‘MG’ badge at front-and-centre. We often wonder how many buyers, especially younger ones, recognise that iconic badge and its history – we suspect not many.
The grille then flows into wide, narrow headlamps with daytime running lights above extended lower air vents, also honeycombed.
The Essence variant comes with 18-inch diamond cut alloy wheels, LED headlights, front foglights, puddle lights that project the MG logo onto the ground and a panoramic glass sunroof with a sunshade.
Excite only gets halogen headlights and 17-inch alloys.
Four body colours are available, all metallic: pearl white, sterling silver, black pearl and diamond red.
Interior HS +EV is a good size, with large comfortable seats, plenty of rear legroom and air vents for back seat passengers. Entry is easy to manage and there’s good interior space. Rear legroom is acceptable and there’s plenty of headroom despite the Essence’s panoramic sunroof.
Excite comes with polyurethane/PVC seats while the Essence steps up to two-tone leather front sports seats with power adjustment and heating as well as LED ambient lighting.
Boot space is a reasonable 451 litres with the rear seats in place and expands to 1275 litres with the seatbacks folded. Essence comes with a powered tailgate. The battery charging cable is stored below the boot floor meaning that there’s no room for a spare wheel, instead you’ll need to rely upon the supplied tyre repair kit if you get a puncture, a growing risk in pot-hole riddled eastern Australia.
The boot is shallow but offers a reasonable 451 litres rear seats up and 1275 litres with the seat backs folded. The Type 2 charge cable is stored under the boot floor where it doesn’t get in the way, but also leaves no room for a spare wheel (a reinflation kit is provided).
Powertrain
Power comes from a 1.5-litre 119 kW / 250 Nm turbo-petrol engine, together with a 16.6kWh battery pack and 90kW electric motor that combine to provide an impressive combined output of 189kW and 370Nm.
It is mated to a 10-speed EDU II automatic gearbox, which consists of six-speed auto for the internal combustion engine and four-speed electronic drive unit.
All-wheel drive is available in the petrol-only HS but, at this stage, the +EV is front-wheel drive only.
AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE
HS 1.5 Vibe 2WD: $32,990
HS 1.5 Excite 2WD: $35,990
HS 2.0 Excite X AWD: $38,990
HS 1.5 Essence 2WD: $39,990
HS 2.0 Essence X AWD: $43,990
HS 1.5 Essence Anfield: $41,690
HS +EV 1.5 Plug-In Hybrid Excite 2WD: $49,690
HS +EV 1.5 Plug-In Hybrid Essence 2WD: $53,690
SPECIFICATIONS
MG HS +EV Essence 1.5-litre petrol / electric plug-in hybrid five-door wagon
Battery charge time is listed at around seven hours from a normal household socket. We were able to charge from empty to full in just under four hours from our home 7kW JetCharge wall box.
Infotainment
Inside there are two large screens, a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster with built-in satellite navigation and a 10.1-inch multi-function high-definition infotainment colour touch screen with large user-friendly displays.
The twin information screens are easy to read and operate although, as is becoming increasingly common, too many of the most-used features needed screen taps rather than through physical knobs.
Smartphone mirroring is available through cabled Apple CarPlay or Android Auto with two USB ports at the front and another pair at the rear. Satellite navigation is standard in both variants.
The big touchscreen is impressive and provides sharp and clear vision through the reversing camera.
One side of the digital instrument cluster is devoted to the petrol engine, while the other keeps you up to date on the battery level as well as how much assistance the electric motor is providing – with three figures for consumption across the bottom.
Both variants get the same six-speaker 3D surround sound audio system.
The HS PHEV is yet to receive an ANCAP crash rating but the petrol variants were tested in 2022 and received the maximum five stars.
Standard safety features in both variants include six airbags; enhanced ABS brakes; electronic stability program; active cornering
brake control; front seat impact absorbent door padding; hill start assist; emergency automatic door unlocking and hazard light activation; tyre pressure monitoring; reversing camera; and rear parking sensors.
Essence adds a 360-degree surround-view camera.
Both models also come with the MG Pilot package which adds enhanced features such as adaptive cruise control; forward collision warning; automatic emergency braking; lane departurewarning;trafficjamassist;intelligent cruise assist; blind spot warning; rear cross traffic alert; intelligent headlamp control; and speed assistance system.
As with most hybrids the HS +EV takes off using the battery but once under moderate acceleration the petrol engine takes over. Unlike some others though it is possible to drive purely under battery power by tapping the ‘EV’ button on the centre console which ensures that the engine doesn’t activate while ever there is charge in the battery.
Fuel consumption is listed at 5.8 litres per 100 kilometres under the city cycle but drops down to just 1.7 L/100 km on the combined city/highway cycle.
Note that it does need 95 RON premium fuel and charging with a standard power point takes about seven hours using a standard 10A power point.
Maximum range under battery-power alone is a claimed 63 kilometres so the only way to get even close to the 1.7 L/100 is to stop the car every 100km and fully recharge the battery before heading off again. Not a very practical scenario.
Midway through our week in the HS +EV we did a specific test entirely in EV mode with the battery fully charged. We chose the
flattest available route and with conservative driving he got close to the 63 kilometre distance.
At the other end of scale we tested the fuel consumption with no charge in the battery and averaged 6.9 L/100km on our predominantly motorwaydrivefromGosfordtoSydneyhelped alongbytheusualbrakeregenerationfeatureof most hybrids.
These issues aside we found the plug-in MG to be a pretty impressive vehicle. The instant torque and silent running of EVs contribute to a very enjoyable driving experience. There’s little or no excitement, but that’s the norm with vehicles at the smaller end of the SUV segment. Steeringisabitontheheavysidebutresponsive enough.
The amount of brake regeneration when decelerating cannot be adjusted but we found that the level was just right, effective without being too intrusive.
The steering is okay but doesn’t provide a lot of feedback and the same can be said of the brakes which could do with more feel.
Whether the extra $10k for the +EV over its petrol-only HS equivalents can be justified will depend on buyer’s individual circumstances. For urban buyers with short distance commutesandahomefast-ishwallboxitwould make sense.
Ataround$50kthepriceisnotthatmuchless than mainstream offerings from the Japanese, principally Toyota’s best-selling RAV4 Hybrid, which although it is not a plug-in does provide excellent fuel economy.
Importantly, with long waiting times for most of its competitors – including the aforementioned RAV4 – buyers can get into most MG models within weeks rather than waiting many months.
Running onto the MCG on the last Saturday in September is something many a young footy fans dream about. Next weekend that dream comes true for the 46 players who will line up in the AFL grand final. Jennifer Pittorino speaks to an ex-player and a fan about what the big day means to them.
Three-time premiership winning footballer Brian Lake said he enjoyed every minute of his three grand final experiences.
“The week leading up to the grand final is very structured, there is always something to look forward to,” said Lake who is now the Caroline Springs men’s coach in the Western Region Football League.
“As soon as you win in the prelim you think youarejustgoingtobestressedaboutSaturday, but the whole spectacle of grand final week kept me busy.”
LakebeganhiscareerattheWesternBulldogs in2002,quicklybecominga’defensivemonster’ due to his ability to out muscle his opponent and hold marks in contested situations.
In2013,LakewastradedtoHawthornwhich culminated in his first AFL premiership, when Hawthorn defeated Fremantle. It was also in this game that Lake won the Norm Smith Medal for best on ground.
Lake went on to win two more premierships at the club in 2014 and 2015, the first time Hawthorn had won three successive premierships in its history.
Lake announced his retirement after playing his last game for Hawthorn in the 2015 grand final.
Sometimes referred to as Hawthorn’s lucky charm, Lake said the trio of grand final wins might have just been a coincidence.
“Some people had mentioned it to me before I said I was the difference,” he said, laughing.
“In 2012 they didn’t make it to the end, and in 2016 they went out in straight sets, so you could say I was just a coincidence.”
In the lead up to his first grand final, Lake said he made a conscious effort to get to the ground early to absorb the build-up and atmosphere.
were already there, the big Hawthorn logo, took it all in and then before you know it was game time.“
Before he ran out to play Lake performed his pre-game ritual which he picked up at his first evergameandendedupemployingthroughout his whole career.
“I didn’t want to take anything for granted, I didn’t know I was going to play 200 games,” he said.
“That first game was a very proud moment. I made sure I went in the toilet and put my guernsey on in the mirror, so I could watch myself put it on.
“That’ssomethingthatkeptgoingfortherest of my life, so I made sure every time I put on
Hawthorn’s win in 2013 was Lake’s favourite premiership, an achievement he said he will never forget.
“To have that happen in your first year, you are absolutely blessed, it’s not easy to do,” he said.
“It was a huge feeling of relief, yes thank god we won and the game is over.”
Lake said the next two wins were different, he was able to enjoy them more.
“Even though the game wasn’t over at half time, we were in really good control and we were able to enjoy that last quarter a little bit more.
“People love watching a close grand final but it’s not as good when you are in it.”
As a coach, Lake now experiences grand finals from watching from the side lines and can sympathise with the stress and anxiety felt by fans.
Western Bulldogs cheer squad member Sharon Cutajar has been lucky enough to witnessherbelovedBulldogswinaflagin2016.
“Just walking through the MCG on grand final day was like a dream come true,” she said.
“Every single year you would watch the grand final and the parade and wonder when is it going to be our turn, are we ever going to experience this?“
Having experienced her team win the flag, Sharon said watching the season’s ups and downs now is not as stressful.
“Of course we were cheering for them this year, but it’s a completely different experience for us now because we have had our time,” she said. “We have been a part of it, we have experienced it, so it is not as hurtful now watching the grand final if we are not in it .”
Growing up Sharon and her five siblings supported the Bulldogs, and now as an adult she bleeds red, white and blue.
“It is an indescribable feeling. I see the bulldogs in everything I do, including decorating my house, which has grown and will continue to.”
Born in South Australia, Brian Lake was an Adelaide Crows supporter.
“Like anyone that lived in South Australia, we went for the Crows as soon as they came into the league.
“I remember watching Darren Jarman win that first grand final, it was very memorable.”
Only one team will emerge victorious on Saturday September 30.
While Lake said he had hoped GWS would win their first flag, Collingwood was now his favourites for the 2023 premiership.
The Western Region Football League could be set for massive changes for the 2024 season in a report released by the league.
In a report sent out to clubs on Friday night, the league has proposed divisional changes, to shift its 22 clubs into two divisions.
The report named Western Region Football Netball Review Draft recommendations, which has been seen by Star Weekly, has proposed division 3 be removed. Currently there are eight teams in division 1 and seven teams in each division 2 and 3. There had been 10 teams in division 1 and eight in division 2 previously, but Deer Park and St Albans left thecompetition,whileGlenOrdencouldn’tget a side up this year. Clubs have been told they have up until September 24 to ask questions to the league about the report before it will go to its next stage.
If this was to occur it would mean, division
1 would be a 10 team competition with both of division 2’s grand finalists, premiers Parkside and runners up Albion, move up to the top flight. While division 2 would be a 12 team fixture. Several club presidents have confirmed the report and the proposed changes.
“The WRFL will work closely and provide club development staffing resources to those clubs that may need extra assistance as they move from division 3 into division 2 football,” thereportsaid.“Itisevidentthatyouthfootball must be a key area of focus of the league for the future sustainability of clubs of the WRFL.
“There are some clubs with no pathways from juniors to youth football at all, some that require strengthening of relationships between juniors and seniors and others that require assistance in recruiting and retaining players.
“There was an overwhelming amount of feedback that the grading for junior grades of
football is currently not working as well as it could be.”
The salary cap and points of each division will be determined in the coming weeks the report said. The proposed division 1 clubs are Werribee Districts, Point Cook, Altona, Yarraville Seddon Eagles, Caroline Springs, Spotswood, Point Cook Centrals, Hoppers Crossing, Parkside and Albion.
Division 2 would consist of Newport, Sunshine, Wyndhamvale, North Footscray, Braybrook, Suns, Albanvale, Sunshine Heights, West Footscray, Tarneit, Laverton Magpies and North Sunshine. The report also recommended the league change names to the Western Football Netball League. The league has had massive growth in netball in recent years, with six divisions this year.
Keilor Thunder star Zac Triplett has been elevated to Melbourne United’s roster for the upcoming NBL season.
Triplett has spent the last two seasons withMUasadevelopmentplayer,where he appeared in 19 games. Triplett’s deal includes a club option for the NBL25 season as well.
The 21-year-old sharpshooter is coming off a strong season in the NBL1 South with the Keilor Thunder, averaging 16.5 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists a game.
Triplett, who played his junior basketball at the Thunder, has been a key player for the Thunder since it moved the NBL1 South competition.
United coach Dean Vickerman touched on Zac’s development the past two seasons and how he believes he can contributetoUnited’sNBL24campaign.
Triplett has suited up for United in 19 games the past two seasons, averaging less than five minutes a game.
“Over his time with us Zac has really grown both physically and as an athlete,” he said. “He’s a great, confident shooter that we know can come in and make smart plays while stretching the floor.
“Knowingyourrolewithinthisleague is crucial, and Zac is someone that knows how to execute his role perfectly within the game plan.”
Spring Hills fell just short of claiming its first Victorian Premier League women’s title. Playing in the division for the first time, Spring Hills finished third after the regular season before making it through to the grand final against Essendon Royals.
Spring Hills had control of the match for most of the game, leading 2-0 with 15 minutes to go.
The Royals found some magic late to score three times to seal the championship with a 3-2 win. Spring Hills coach Tom Markovski said they were so proud of what they group had been able to achieve this year.
“It was fantastic to make the finals with a young squad,” he said. “We probably should have won the match.
“We were 2-0 up with 15 minutes to go. We had a couple of unlucky mistakes from the youngsters.
“It’sagreatachievementandI’mreallyproud
of the girls.”
Markovski said they continued to give the young girls in their program an opportunity at the highest level they could.
They had nine players who are under-17 make their senior debuts this season. Four of them started in the grand final.
“Thatisreallypleasing,”hesaid.“Thegirlsput in a great effort and it was a great achievement playing against some good experienced girls, some who have come down from the NPL [National Premier League].”
Markovski said heading into the season they had been hoping to finish in the top four and make finals. He said they achieved what they had been hoping for.
“I always play to win,” he said. “My aim was to be in the top four and we achieved that.
“The first six weeks see where ware at and from there we were able to finish third. It’s fantastic for us.
“We had a lot of girls go overseas during the season and still have three away now.”
Spring Hills narrowly missed out on automatic promotion in the NPLW for next season,withthetoptwoteamsattheendofthe regular season being promoted.
Markovski said they never know what will happen in the off season with other teams.
“If a team pulls out it might open a door for us,” he said. “Our seniors and reserves both finished third and weren’t far off.
“We want to build on that and improve.”
While the women’s side has just finished their season, there’s been changes happening behind the scenes with the men’s program.
The club has announced that John McAloon won’t be continuing on as men’s coach next season after deciding to step down.
The Stallions finished second last in state league 4 west and will be relegated.
“?? said they were restructuring their men’s program and would look to run it similar to how they run the women’s program.
The club is set to announce a new coach and technical director in the next couple of weeks.
Following Triplett’s elevation, United has signed Tom Koppens as a development player for the NBL24 campaign.
Koppens, who has been playing with MU as a training player across the offseason, is coming off a standout season playing with the Sandringham Sabres in the NBL1 South.
St Albans believes it has all bases covered as it aims to return to finals in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division.
The Saints were in the finals mix until the final round, before a loss resulted in them finishing in seventh spot.
New Saints captain-coach Shafraz Mohammed said the pre-season had been really good.
“It’snotlongnow,theseasonstartsinacouple of weeks,” he said. “We’ve done everything we can and had a really good pre-season.
“We’ve done a lot of fitness work and had a couple of practice games. I’m very happy with it.”
The Saints have added in four players to last season’s squad, with just one departure.
Mohammed will play a key role for the Saints with the ball this season, having helped his previous side, Footscray United, to two
straight premierships.
Ashen Abeykoon joins Mohammed in crossing from Footscray United. He has been named in two VTCA teams of the year and took 40 wickets in the 21-22 season.
Akila Ishanka joins the club from St Andrews and has been one of the top players in the competition, being named in the VTCA teams of the year five times.
The other signing is Nils Priestley. He’s headeddownunderthisSummerinsensational form, having played in England where he made 147 not out from 66 balls in a T20 match.
On the other side, the Saints have lost Geeth Alwis to Westmeadows.
Mohammed said while Alwis is a big loss, they felt like they had more than replaced him.
“It’s hard losing someone with that experience,” he said. “We have covered his loss with what we have picked up.
“We think we have everything covered.”
The Saints season will get underway on October 7, but the fixture has yet to be confirmed.
Mohammed said he was hoping to continue his good record of recent seasons at his club.
“Nothing short of making finals for me,” he said. “I’ve made finals the last three years and won two flats.
“Hopefully I can keep the streak going at St Albans.”
Mohammed said they would like had a bit of a break before the season kicks off after having such a big pre-season.
Meanwhile, Westmeadows will replace Haig Fawkner in senior division this season. The Warriors were set to be relegated to division 1, but instead Haig will be the side to drop down.
Keilor is hoping another pre-season under the belt will help it produce a more consistent Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division season.
Keilor finished second bottom last season, but the closeness of the competition meant it was still in contention for finals heading into the final round of the season.
Coach Duncan Harrison said they would stick with a pretty similar list for the upcoming season.
He said that they’d had a really good pre-season.
“We’vehadagoodsolidpreparation,”hesaid. “There’s a nice enjoyment around the group.
“The list is pretty similar. We’ve lost Alfie Miles who has gone to premier cricket which is the goal.
“We’ve brought in an Englishman, Nick Taylor, who played at Greenvale last year, and a young Indian.”
Harrison said they felt last season they had the right players, they just didn’t put it together consistently enough.
Keilor won just four games for the season.
“We were disappointed last year,” he said. “We probably coughed up a few games we should not have.
“The ladder doesn’t lie. We need to be a bit more consistent and that has been the focus throughout the pre-season.”
Harrison said having such a young core it was always going to take some time to put it all together.
Hesaidtheywerehopingthatitcouldbethis season.
“We’ve talked about that group of six or seven young kids and getting 30 or 40 games into them,” he said.
“They’vegotthatnow.MatthewGaskettwon the VTCA medal and his improvement was amazing.
“Hopefully we’ll have one or two similar to him this year.”
GaskettwasoneoftwoKeilorplayerstohead over to England in the off season to continue to play cricket.
Another massive experience for many of the group, was a trip the club made to Sri Lanka in April.
“Weplayed10gamesofcricketinSriLanka,” Harrison said. “It was really good for the development of the players.
“We had a couple in the UK as well. It’s helped them mature as people and improve their games.”
Keilor season is set to get underway on October 7.
Harrison said the group had set their target on playing finals this season.
“Top four,” he said about their aims. “I don’t feel like it was a talent thing last year.
“We were disappointed we didn’t make the four last year. We’re aiming to play finals and
Brimbank Stallions is on the hunt for a newcoachwithAndrewMarthdeparting the FV state league 1 north-west club.
The Stallions announced on social media on Tuesday it had made the difficult decision to part ways with Marth.
“Both Andrew and the board of Club Italia were not in agreement with the direction of Brimbank Stallions FC and amicably came to this decision,” the social media post said.
“Andrew’s appointment to our club seven years ago was a significant achievement, as he is highly regarded withintheVictorianfootballcommunity.
“WetakeprideinthefactthatAndrew’s tenure with Brimbank Stallions FC has been his longest coaching stint, and it has been a fruitful relationship for both parties. His invaluable assistance in securing our club’s successful NPL [National Premier League] junior license with FV cannot be overlooked.
“Onthefield,Andrewbroughtusgreat triumphs,includingtwopromotionsand remarkable runs in the Australia Cup, elevating our club to unprecedented heights.
“His “winner take all” style instilled fear in our opponents, as he consistently extracted the best from our players. Moreover, his leadership fostered a strong bond among the team, forging friendships that will endure.”
The Stallions finished in fourth spot this year, 14 points behind champions Altona City which was the only team promoted. It was the best finish the club has had in state league 1 north-west for a completed season.
The club was in second spot in 2021 when the season was cancelled due to COVID-19.
MarthtookovercoachingtheStallions midway through the 2017 season helping guide the side to the state league 3 north-west premiership that year. Twelve monthslatertheyfinishedsecondinstate league 2 north-west to seal promotion and move into state league 1 north-west.
Tara Murraywould be disappointed if we didn’t achieve it.”
Meanwhile on the women’s side of things, it’s been a tough off season with it s eeming like the club wouldn’t get a team up at one stage.
Harrison said they lost about eight players to Victorian Premier Cricket.
He said it had been a real challenge to get where they are ahead of the season.
“Wewillhaveayoungside,nottoodissimilar to last year.” he said.
“We had a good young team hoping to play somegamesonturfandtheymadegrandfinal. We’ll see how we go.”
Premiership number three was extra special for Keilor captain Kane Barbuto.
Having been part of the 2016 premiership and then skippering the side in a best on ground performance in 2019, this year felt different.
Barbuto had to step away from playing last year at his beloved Keilor due to work and his family.
This year, he returned and took back up the captaincy to lead the Essendon District Football League premier division side.
On Saturday, he captained the side as it completed the perfect season.
“This one was a completely different experience to what I’ve felt before,” he said. “I’ve played in three and there’s something special about that one and the group that we’ve got.
“It’s been a weird last four years with COVID.. We reached the heights we did in 2019, got the season cancelled in 2020 and 11
games in 21.
“Then last year I had to step away personally, just my family and make sure my job was all good.
“I had a little bit to repay the team for that. No one has ever told me that but I knew personally… I just needed this one for the boys I needed to repay this one a little bit.”
Barbuto said heading into the game was the most nervous he has ever been and was a wreck the last couple of days.
He said one the siren went, he was fine.
“The nerves were unbelievable,” he said. “Scoreboard pressure was massive. To capitaliseandgetonthescoreboardearly,even me personally gives you a bit of confidence to kick another.
“For the group to stay that lead five goals going into three quarter time and to kick early goals and we knew that we had that run on that we weren’t going to be stopped.”
Having been part of one of the greatest EDFL comebacks on Windy Hill against Strathmore, Barbuto said it was only when they were 10 goals up with 15 minutes to go
they knew they had done enough.
The umpires awarded Barbuto the Reg Rose Medal as the best player on the ground. He also won the medal in 2019.
Having lost a number of key players at the end of last season, Barbuto said they didn’t know what to expect this season.
He said once they got half way through the season, that they were onto something special.
“Tobehonestwedidn’tknowwhattoexpect coming into this year,” he said. “We’ve got to trust Mick [McGuane], he is mastermind behind what we do.
“I’ve never played in a team that chaotic and that freely before one of the best teams I’ve ever played in.”
For Barbuto, he’ll celebrate the premiership and then work out what the future holds.
“I had to cap off a good career at Keilor, I don’t know if I go it or not.”
- Tara MurrayKeilor capped off one of the more dominant Essendon District Football League premier division seasons, with a well deserved premiership on Saturday afternoon.
Undefeated throughout the regular season, the Blues had an average winning margin of more than 50 points.
They smashed Pascoe Vale in the semi final, with Strathmore doing the same thing to the Panthers in the preliminary final.
Come Saturday, the Mores were full of confidence having had a strong second half of the season in their quest for back-to-back titles.
The Blues hit the scoreboard early as they made the most of their forward entries.
The margin was 11 points at quarter time and three goals at half time in the favour of the Blues.
The second half would be all the Blues.
They led by five goals at three quarter time, before their running ability came to the fore in the last.
The margin blew out to 61 points, before the Mores kicked a couple late. The final score was20.7(127)-11.9(75)showingthedifference between the Blues and the other teams this year.
Blues coach Mick McGuane said what they had achieved this year was pretty significant.
“They’re a great bunch of boys,” he said. “I don’t think a lot of people in the footy industry realise how difficult it is to go through undefeated.
“I thought our back half of the year was really strong and solid. Today [Saturday] we had to step up against a team that was in fantastic form and match hardened. We had one game in about 28 days, I think.
“It was a testament to the players’ discipline, the way we worked and what we worked on in that period, without playing games.”
McGuane said both sides had periods of control in the grand final and he felt it was the third quarter that would prove to be the difference in the end.
“I thought we cracked them and I thought it would take a very good team to beat this team, playing the hard contested brand we play.
“We are a very good running side. When you have high octane type performances like we have, we want to play chaos, play quick, if the ball is alive a lot you have to get from contest to contest which we are good at.
“We outnumbered spread and we used the
ball and we sort of did that.
“I thought we had a number of winners right across the board which is why we ran out quite comprehensive winners at game’s end. “ Matthew Clark kicked five goals for the winners, while Kane Barbuto kicked four and Christos Kosmas and Nathan Colenso kicked three each.
Barbuto won his second Reg Rose Medal for the best player in the grand final, after winning it in 2019.
McGuane said it could have gone to a number of players.
“I thought [Nick] O’Kearney was stiff,” he said. “I loved the way that Kane went about it, we isolated him with the right match up early.
“O’Kearney finished with close to 40, Clark kicked five. Colenso replaced [Damien] Cavka and kicked three and did what he did in front of the ball.
“Kosmas,isthebrotherinlawofCavka,and he had a lot to play for.”
The result is a long way from the start of pre-season when the Blues had a number of more experienced players either retire or go to lower levels. McGuane said it would have been easy to sit back and look at who they lost, instead of making change.
“You get to work with the group at your disposal,” he said. “This is the way
you should train, quick entry, embracing imperfections and the group we had in front of the ball.
“We kept kicking winnings scores. We averaged 133 throughout the year for that to stand true in a final, it does get tough and it does get hard to hit the scoreboard, goes to show what we put in 10 months ago.”
For nine of the group, it’s the second time they have been part of the premiership that capped off a perfect season.
For Barbuto, it was premiership number three for the Blues. For McGuane, number four.
“You don’t go down that path of how many you can get,” McGuane said. “A person reminded me today, post game, that you’ve been to Tassie and coached premiers and championship [undefeated] team and you’ve done it twice in the space of four years [at Keilor].
“It’s something we couldn’t do in 137 year history, doing a lot right and we believe in what we know and what we do, to give these young boys a taste of what victory is like at the pointy end of the season, pretty proud the work we’ve put in.”
