Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 3rd October 2023

Crime rate rises in Brimbank

By Hannah Hammoud

Recorded criminal offences have increased by 4.6percentacrossBrimbankinthe12months toJune,accordingtonewdatafromtheCrime Statistics Agency.

Brimbank recorded 753 more offences in the 12 months to June 2023, compared to the previous 12 months, with a total of 17,122 criminal offences.

There was an increase in offences in St Albans and Sunshine, remaining the top two spots respectively for offences in the municipality.

Stealing from a motor vehicle (2215 offences recorded), and other theft (1582 offences recorded) remained as the top two offences in Brimbank.

Though Victoria Police has opted to refer to pre-pandemic levels as a more ‘accurate’ comparison to crime rates across the state.

“Given the twelve months to June 2022 includedaroundthreemonthsofstrictCOVID lockdowns, the most accurate comparator when gauging overall Victorian crime trends is the most recent reporting period unaffected by any restrictions – the twelve months to June 2019,” said Victoria Police.

Pedalling pair set for

Brendan Smith has been taking part in Australia’slargestonedaybikeridesince2017.

Usually cycling alongside his friends from a former workplace, this year’s ride is a little different for Brendan as he hits the road with his seven-year-old son Elijah.

Australia’s biggest bike ride, United Energy Around the Bay, takes place on Sunday, October 8. The day is set to be a game-changer for riders of all ages and cycling levels from the 17km family ride to the iconic 220km classic and the exclusive 300km club.

The Caroline Springs duo, Brendan and his son Elijah, will be taking part in the 17km

Brimbank Local Area Commander Acting Inspector Pat Cantone said compared to pre-pandemic levels, overall crime in the Brimbank area is 8.5 per cent lower.

Inspector Cantone said Brimbank police will continue to focus on youth crime, home burglaries, car thefts, and firearm related violence.

“We are making significant strides in each of these areas, as we continue to prioritise our resources according to the latest crime trends, community concerns, and ultimately where we can prevent the most harm,” he said.

Brimbank recorded a 3.2 per cent increase

largest ride

family ride. Brendan said his first ride in 2017, was a tiresome 100km ride, made easier with the company of friends.

“I thought it’d be more ambitious than it was, but we cruised along and averaged about 25kms an hour. Catching up with friends that I used to work with was the highlight of the day and I guess was why I kept coming back each year,” he said.

After cheering on his dad in previous years, this year will be Elijah’s first time taking part in the event.

“When I rode last year, my wife brought him down. He met me at the finish line, and

I could just see the excitement on his face. I saw some other little kids with their bikes and I thought next year I’d get Elijah down with me,” Brendan said.

Brendan said he encourages everyone to get involved and give the ride a go, describing the feeling of reaching the finishing line as ‘rewarding’.

“It’s not as hard as it sounds, and with everyone ri ing around you it inspires you to go that little bit further and push yourself a little more,” he said.

HannahHammoud

in family violence incidents compared to the previous 12 months, however compared to pre-pandemic levels, Inspector Cantone said incidents have remained ‘steady’, having risen by 0.7 per cent.

“While this is positive, the issue of family violence will continue to be a major priority forBrimbankpolice–nooneshouldeverhave to feel unsafe in their own home,” he said.

“The statistics indicate we are continuing to arrest offenders for breaching family violence orders which highlights the proactive approach taken to monitor offenders and hold them accountable for their actions.”

Space for nature play

YMCA Derrimut’s Early Learning Centre is changing the way children enjoy outdoor play, with a new nature-inspired playground project underway.

The centre received a $490,010 grant from the state government’s Building Blocks Improvement program to transform the existing playground into an engaging and inclusive nature-inspired playground.

The major upgrade will feature dedicated outdoor spaces customised for different age groups allowing for age-appropriate, safe, and enriching learning experiences for each child.

The new design includes sandpits, water play areas, climbing structures, vegetable gardens, and artistic spaces, seamlessly blending with the natural environment to promote creative play.

A vital part of the renovated design is theadditionofa’YarningCircle’,aspace aimed to encourage respectful dialogue and celebrate diversity.

YMCA Victoria chief executive Carolyn Morris said a well-designed environment invites children to invent, construct, explore and thrive.

“The physical environment plays an essential role as the third teacher, stimulating children’s curiosity and sparking the joy of discovery,” she said.

Reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability, the new playground will incorporate shade trees, rainwater tanks, and the use of sustainable materials. The introduction of natural areas, environmental features, and plant life is poised to foster children’s connection to and respect for the environment.

KororoitMPLubaGrigorivitchjoined centre manager Kranthi Kummara and YMCA Victoria’s executive manager of early learning Julie Bowe to turn the first sod on September 26.

Accused was ‘unfamiliar with driving’, court hears

A driver accused of crashing into two children playinginalanewaybehindtheirgrandparents’ home was unfamiliar with driving a car and had only been in Australia for six days.

Ngoc Thanh Vo is charged with dangerous driving over a crash in Braybrook, in Melbourne’s west, on Tuesday evening 25 September.

Athree-year-oldboysufferedminorinjuries, while an eight-year-old boy has undergone surgeries for multiple serious injuries after being pinned between two cars.

Vo, who arrived in Australia from Vietnam

six days before the incident, allegedly mistook the accelerator for the brake when driving in the laneway behind four townhouses.

Police told Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday Vo was unlicensed and generally unfamiliarwithdrivingacarwhenhewentout on his own for a drive around the block in a Toyota Prado.

CCTV footage allegedly shows Vo return to the laneway where the vehicle suddenly accelerated, striking three parked cars and the two children

Theyoungerboywashitbyoneoftheparked

cars while the older one was pinned between the Prado’s bull bar and the back of a second car.

Both he and the car were pushed over a concrete gutter at the end of the laneway, down a grass embankment, across a road and into the fence of a neighbouring property, the court heard.

He remained pinned until emergency servicesarrived,andhassufferedpelvis,legand femoral artery injuries which have required surgeries, police said.

The court heard Vo was in Australia on a

partnervisa,livingwithhiswifewhosupported him in court.

Police have sought 12 weeks to put together a brief of evidence, which is expected to include mechanical reconstruction of the crash and forensic analysis of the boys’ injuries.

Vo, who is on bail, is due back in court on January 31, 2024.

He is also charged with reckless conduct endangering serious injury, unlicensed driving and careless driving.

Karen Sweeney, AAP

Brendan Smith and his son Elijah, 7, are taking part in Australia’s largest one day bike ride. (Damjan Janevski) 362346_03

Celebratethe VictorianSeniors FestivalinBrimbank

Victoria’s largest seniors’ festival returns in October and we’ve got some great nocharge and low-cost events happening in Brimbank throughout the month.

The fun includes the Come and Try Golf Clinic with PGA Professional Scott Wearne. The sessions on Tuesday 3 October, and Thursday 5 October were booking out fast. Seniors Card holders can also enjoy a no-charge screening of the movie My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3, on Friday 13 October, 10am-12.30pm

Another great drawcard is sure to be the activities at the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre in Keilor Downs. This will include Aqua Movers, a low impact cardio class and chair aerobics. Some of our other aquatic centres and community facilities will also be hosting events.

There are also some great events for foodies. This includes the St Albans Foodie Tour, the Cultural Kitchen with local community chefs sharing recipes from their cultures.

The month of activities aims to help seniors in the community live their best life. You can find more local activities at brimbank.vic.gov.au/ seniors-festival-2023 or search the official Seniors Festival website seniorsonline.vic.gov. au/seniorsfest23

Visit yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au to share your ideas and feedback on issues and projects that matter to you. Learn more about projects that are open for comment including:

• Development Contributions Plan 2022 and Planning Scheme Amendment C214

Be Bold Festival returns

Come along to the Be Bold Festival in Brimbank for a fun-filled day of arts, culture and creativity on Saturday 7 October, 11am-5pm

Enjoy arts, music, markets, food and activities for the whole family at the Bowery Theatre and Gallery and St Albans Community Centre.

Gardening for renters

This My Smart Garden workshop shares valuable tips for renters about how to make the most of their gardening space.

The online workshop is hosted by gardening expert Kaye RobertsPalmer of Blue Bee Garden Design on Thursday 12 October, 7.158.15pm. Visit brimbank.vic. gov.au/events to learn more.

Your

Tackling those ‘tween’ troubles

By Hannah Hammoud

Raising young children is no easy feat, but for educator, author and award-winning speaker Michelle Mitchell, raising ‘tweens’ can be particularly challenging.

Mitchell authored the book ‘Tweens’ published this year, where she describes the ages of nine through to 12 as the throes of the ‘between’ years, where kids are not quite a child but also not yet a teenager. She says these ‘tween’ years embody a very specific stageofdevelopmentthatonceunderstoodwill revolutionise the way people parent, educate and support those in their care.

Sharing her wisdom, Mitchell is set to visit Taylors Hill’s Gilson College on October 10, to help guide parents through these turbulent years.

Mitchell describes the ‘tween’ years as the most rapid period of development for children since toddlerhood.

“Right now, before the full pressures of high school hit, you have a window of opportunity that can change the trajectory of adolescence andbeyond,”readspartofherbioforthebook.

GilsonCollegewellbeingcoordinatorAndrea Farquharson said the ticketed event is open to theentirecommunityinMelbourne’swest.She said the presentation will benefit anybody who is navigating the terrain of raising a ‘tween’.

“Tweens can be a tricky time as children are headinguptowardsthoseteenageyearsandare trying to work out who they are without their parents,” Ms Farquharson said.

Highlights include music from the Brimbank Multicultural Community Choir, cooking demos that champion food from all over the world, Vietnamese culture is celebrated with a large scale interactive art installation on Errington Reserve oval, and you can see some amazing art exhibitions in the Bowery Gallery. Learn more about this no-charge event at creativebrimbank.com.au/bbf

Spring bird survey at Sydenham Park

During national Aussie Bird Count Week, you can take part in a guided twilight bird survey at Sydenham Park, on Thursday 19 October Bird watchers will meet at the Keilor Public Golf Course in Keilor North from 5pm. Visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/events to learn more.

Cr Victoria Borg 0429365527 CrBorg@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Sarah Branton 0407836064 CrBranton@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Thuy Dang 0437744803 CrDang@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Sam David JP 0429355239 CrDavid@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Maria Kerr 0437796630 CrKerr@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Bruce Lancashire (Mayor) 0429637689 CrLancashire@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Jasmine Nguyen 0437740042 CrNguyen@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Thomas O’Reilly 0409210431 CrOReilly@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Jae Papalia 0437838710 CrPapalia@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Ranka Rasic (Deputy Mayor) 0437861296 CrRasic@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Virginia Tachos 0428915671 CrTachos@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Mitchell’s book uses the results from her own survey of more than 2000 parents and tweens, along with interviews with experts whose insights are used to touch on the friendship issues, mood swings, confidence crises, technology habits, sibling rivalry, body image concerns and seemingly inexplicable behaviour of ‘tweens’.

Are

“As they start to individuate though this time frame, we want to support them to do so in a healthy way. This presentation is all about equipping a trusted adult to be able to support children through these years.”

Tickets to the presentation event are $30 and will take place at Gilson College Taylors Hill on Tuesday, October 10 from 6pm.

Details: https://michellemitchell.org/ parent-event-tweens-gilson-collegemelbourne/

The referendum will be held on Saturday 14 October 2023. Voting is compulsory even if you are 70 years of age or older.

If you can’t make it to a polling place on voting day, you may be eligible to vote early.

For more information go to www.aec.gov.au or call the AEC on 13 23 26

Appropriate COVID-19 safety measures will be in place at all polling places.

Voting is compulsory for Australian citizens aged 18 years and older. If you don’t vote, you may be prosecuted. Voting more than once is a criminal offence.

2023 Referendum, Saturday 14 October

aec.gov.au | 13 23 26

Gilson College wellbeing coordinator Andrea Farquharson and teacher librarian Kamini Woods. (Jacob Pattison) 360085_01

Melton sticks with January 26

By Liam McNally

Melton council has opted to continue to hold a citizenship ceremony on January 26, and will step up the size of the event by moving it to Cobblebank Stadium.

The matter was discussed at a council meeting on September 26, following a federal change to the Citizenship Act late last year which no longer requires local councils to hold citizenship ceremonies on Australia Day.

Historically, Melton has held a ceremony on January 26 at the Willows. Council officers recommended the date of this ceremony be changedbasedontheassociatedcostofholding an event at the park on the public holiday.

According to a council document it costs ratepayers $59,000 to hold a ceremony that confers citizenship on 200 new Australians at the Willows on January 26, while non-public holiday ceremonies held at Cobblebank Stadium cost $11,400 to confer citizenship on 400 people.

Councillor Ashleigh Vandenberg supported the officers’ recommendation on the basis that the money saved from holding the event on a different day could be put towards holding more ceremonies.

“We often get various emails from residents who are going to become Australian citizens thatthewaitlististoolongandtheyreallywant to become citizens as soon as possible allowing

them to get on with their lives,” she said.

Councillor Sophie Ramsay moved an alternate motion to continue holding the ceremony on January 26 but to move it to Cobblebank.

“Australia Day and the citizenship ceremonies that go along with Australia day have been an important civic event for this community since I’ve been elected on to council for the last 22 years,” she said.

Cr Ramsay added that moving the event to Cobblebank and inducting more citizens on January 26 would reduce the cost of the event.

In the past six weeks nearby councils in Brimbank, Maribyrnong and Macedon Ranges all elected to move their citizenship

Smartphone film in finals for award

A Caroline Springs filmmaker has been named a finalist for the 9th annual international Smart Fone Flick Fest (SF3).

SF3 is an Australian film competition that celebrates movies shot entirely on smartphones which this year attracted 458 entries from 60 countries, competing for morethan$50,000acrossmultiplecategories.

Ronald James Baculo is a finalist in the main award and the Luma Touch Finished on Mobile award for his film The Art of Living (with a Mechanical Keyboard).

TheLumaTouchFinishedonMobileaward goes to movies that are not only filmed on

smartphones, but also edited and completed all on a mobile device without the help of a computer or laptop.

Mr Baculo said this is the first time he’s made about a dozen films over the past decade, but this is the first time he’s done an end-to-end production entirely on his phone.

“I was literally editing this film while on the train commute or even in bed,” he said.

“I’m also a big advocate for mobile filmmaking because it democratises the process of filmmaking, empowering ordinary people to tell their stories without

the need for expensive camera gear or going to an exclusive film school.

“I feel really honoured to have my little short film selected at SF3 especially since it’s one of the biggest smartphone film festivals in the world and it supports local Australian filmmakers.”

The SF3 Gala Finals take place in Sydney the weekend of November 18.

Then, Friday November 24, the festival arrives in Melbourne for a co-screening with another of the world’s largest smartphone film festivals – MINA at ACMI in Federation Square.

ceremonies, citing that the day is considered as a day of mourning for Aboriginal people.

While this area of the debate was largely left out of the meeting’s discussion, councillor Bob Turner did acknowledge it.

“It’s not a council decision whether Australia Day is on the 26th of January or not,” he said.

“If the government decides it’s going to be on whatever other day then so be it. But right now it’s the 26th and I feel we should have our Australia Day celebrations.”

Cr Vandenberg voted against the motion, Councillor Steve Abboushi Abstained and all other councillors voted to keep the citizenship ceremony on January 26 and move it to Cobblebank stadium with a larger capacity.

Melton’s thoughts on council

Residents in the Melton municipality are slightly more satisfied with their local council than last year according to the findings of the 2023 Community Satisfaction Survey. For the past nine years, Melton council has conducted an annual community satisfaction survey through an independent research organisation.

The results, tabled at a council meeting on September 25, found Melton resident’s overall approval of council rose from 6.5 to a score of 6.9 out of 10, similar to average results for western region councils and metro councils of seven out of 10.

Satisfaction rose for core governance, perceptions of safety, planning and development outcomes and appearance and quality of new development, while it decreased for customer service and community services for babies, children, youths, seniors and persons with disability.

Councillor Justine Farrugia said the survey provides critical insights to what matters to residents and opportunities for improvement.

“It is an important snapshot that helps to tell the story of those who live in the city of Melton,” she said.

“Our waste and recycling services along with our libraries, community events and festivals performed at a high standard with residents rating them as ‘excellent’.”

A quarter of respondents named traffic management as a main issue for council to address, 13 per cent brought up roads and road works and 12 percent raised parks, gardens, and open spaces, and eight per cent raised safety, policy and crime.

‘Special rate’ extended for local businesses to host events

Brimbank council is set to extend the St Albans Town Centre Marketing and Business Development special rate, allowing businesses to continue hosting local events and activities.

At the council meeting on September 19, council resolved to give notice of its intent to declare the special rate for a further five years.

Introduced in 2019, the special rate scheme provides continued funding from Brimbank council to support events promotion and businessdevelopmentinitiativesinStAlbans.

The St Albans Business Group Association Incorporated (SABGAI) wrote to council requesting the special rate be renewed, with the current special rate ending on June 30, 2024.

President of the SABGAI Sebastian Agricola said since the introduction of the scheme, the association has been able to extend its activities significantly.

“Muchhasbeenachievedbutmuchisstillto be done to continue all the good work. Hence the association is in favour of extending the scheme another five years,” he said.

Allpropertyownersandbusinessoperators will receive information about the special rate, which is proposed to commence on July 1, 2024, and end on June 30, 2029, raising a total of $832,583.15.

This equates to almost $160,000 in the first year, increasing at a rate of two per cent each year for the term of the scheme.

Brimbank mayor Bruce Lancashire said many great events and activities are funded by the special rate.

“Italsomakespossibleanongoingprogram of marketing and business development

initiatives that help boost the number of people who visit St Albans for a meal or shopping,” he said.

The special rate pays for the appointment of a professional marketing coordinator, promotional, advertising, marketing and business development.

Several activities are funded by the special rate, including the St Albans Lunar Festival, Westside Crawls as part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, Easter and Christmas activities and support for the council’s Enjoy Local Activation program.

Ronald James ‘RJ’ Baculo showing off his filming set-up. (Damjan Janevski) 363082_07

Soil facility: ‘Not what we want’

By Hannah Hammoud and Jennifer Pittorino

Members of a local air quality advocacy group are calling on the state government to prevent a Brooklyn waste management company from building a soil-washing facility.

In a letter penned to the Environment Minister Ingrid Stitt, the Inner West Air Quality Community Reference Group said the Brooklyn and West Sunshine communities ‘vigorously oppose’ the development of the proposal in the interests of the health, safety and liveability of its residents.

“This community has been fighting for more than 20 years for the right to breathe clean air and are sick and tired of being the city’s dumping ground. This proposal has left residents distressed and wondering if their plight will ever be taken seriously,” the letter read.

Waste management company ResourceCo saidinalettersenttoresidentsthatitisseeking to submit a Development Licence Application for the addition of a soil-washing facility within the existing site at 125 Bunting Road, Brooklyn.

ResourceCo said it intends to receive 200 tonnes of material per hour from 6am to 6pm through Monday to Friday, with an annual limit of 500,000 tonnes per year.

The company said material that arrives at site will be stored in designated areas within existing sheds to await processing.

“As a part of this process, proactive communityengagementiscurrentlyunderway. The proposed facility is an extension of our existing soil reuse and recycling capabilities to removecontaminantsfromsoil,makingitready forreuse,”aspokespersonforResourceCosaid.

The Inner West Air Quality Community Reference Group was established by the state

government in 2018, with representatives from the community, local councils and community groups,toinvestigateandbetterunderstandair pollution issues, concerns, and sources across Melbourne’s inner west.

Reference group member Geoffrey Mitchelmore said in 2020 the group recommended that the state government phase out work in the Brooklyn industrial precinct, advising that it be moved outside of the metropolitan Melbourne area.

“We have asked the government to stop this and now we have this major organisation wanting to do this five days a week, 12 hours a day,” he said. “It is a big operation and it’s exactly what we didn’t want to have to deal with. The material will be coming from

right across Melbourne on 240 trucks a day and mostly 240 trucks out, which is not what we want. When the West Gate tunnel project is finished, we’re expecting an extra 7000 trucks a day, this will just add to that. The place is just going to be one great big truck parking lot.”

Mr Mitchelmore said the group is calling on the Environment Minister to stop the development.

“We are hoping that the Minister will react and do something about it, and act on what we recommended three years ago,” he said.

“We were hoping that we would see a lot more of these organisations disappear over the last three years, but it hasn’t happened, and it’s time that it does happen.

“We have been in this dreadful industrial situation for the last 17 years. We are hoping the pressure we put on now will sort it out.”

Brimbank council’s director of city futures Kelvin Walsh said council has not received formal notification of any proposal for the site.

“Council is aware residents of Brooklyn are very concerned about this proposal,” he said.

“...Thesiteinquestionhasacurrentplanning permit for a recycling operation. Once council is provided with details of the proposal, a thorough assessment will be undertaken to determine whether the current permit authorises the proposal or whether further planning approval is required.”

TheMinisterforEnvironmentwascontacted for comment.

Tyre & Auto Service

Local residents are calling for the development of soil washing facility in Brooklyn to be stopped. (Jacob Pattison) 362700_01

Briefs

Sunshine station elevators

Metro Trains have returned the elevator on the Station Place side of Sunshine Station to service as of September 21. The elevator had been out of action since September 4, as the Metro Trains team awaited a replacement part for repairs.

Hotspot report

The EPA has said it is awaiting an auditor-verified report on Barro Group’s landfill hotspot remediation plan at the Sunshine landfill in Kealba, which would see the final remaining hotspot extinguished by depriving it of oxygen.

The EPA said it will assess the report which it expects to receive shortly.

The court process continues and Barro Group’s next hearing is scheduled for April 15, 2024. Details: https://www. epa.vic.gov.au/for-community/currentprojects-issues/kealba

Registrations open

Winners are grinners

The staff and children at Parkwood Green Preschool in Hillside are all smiles after receiving their second Smiles 4 Miles award.

Smiles 4 Miles is an initiative of Dental Health Services Victoria (DHSV) which aims to improve the oral health of children and their families in high-risk areas across Victoria. The program is implemented locally by IPC Health, mostly in preschools.

IPC Health acting chief executive Jason Hodge congratulated everyone involved with the award.

“Well done to Parkwood Green Preschool who worked together with IPC Health’s Smiles 4 Miles Health Promotion Coordinator and

getting this approved by DHSV,” he said.

“Parkwood Green Preschool has achieved this award for the second time with assistance and guidance of IPC Health since starting in the program in 2018.”

IPC Health reports that in Brimbank, 46 per cent of children in the age group 0-5 years and 70 per cent in the age group 6-8 years attending publicdentalservices,haveatleastonedecayed, missing or filled tooth.

Parkwood Green Preschool spokesperson Kate Bader said IPC Health has been a huge support for helping the school to achieve this milestone. “We are extremely pleased by this recognition for our efforts,” she said.

Brimbank council has opened up registrations for the Garage Sale Trail event coming up in November. Locals can host a sale or shop the trail of pre-loved goods across Brimbank. Register for free at www.garagesaletrail. com.au/brimbank

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Parkwood Green Preschool in Hillside have received their second Smiles 4 Miles award. (Supplied)

A life full of new possibilities

As a congenitally blind man born and raised in north-west Syria, Mahmoud Alsayad seemed destined for a life of endless hardships, but a mere month into life in Australia and now settled in Wollert, Mahmoud is dreaming big as Gerald Lynch discovered

Born in Aleppo, Mahmoud’s early years were marked by challenges, primarily because of his disability. Despite his yearningforeducation,hestruggledinaschool systemill-equippedtoaccommodatehisneeds.

“My parents didn’t know about the school for vision-impaired children, so I didn’t attend until I was much older,” Mahmoud recalled. His family’s rigid control over his life, stemming from their misunderstanding of his capabilities, left Mahmoud feeling like a prisoner in his own home.

As if navigating life with blindness wasn’t demanding enough, the outbreak of civil war in Syria in 2012 plunged Mahmoud into a world of constant fear and uncertainty.

“It was very scary, and I was always stressed. BecauseIcouldn’tsee,itwashardtoknowwhat was going on, so it was scary,” he admitted.

As the conflict escalated, Mahmoud and his family were forced to flee Aleppo, a city gradually succumbing to destruction and under relentless siege. For several years, they moved from place to place in search of refuge, ajourneyfraughtwithdangeranduncertainty.

It wasn’t until 2016 that they made a dangerous 12-hour journey into Turkey, crossing rivers and passing through remote farms to reach a hiding place in a small village. They sought refuge as illegal immigrants, living on minimal financial support from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). Mahmoud’s brothers managed to find work in construction, allowing the family to survive, but this newfound stability brought Mahmoud increased isolation.

“I was by myself. My family would put me in aroomandleaveme.Unfortunately,myfamily didn’t want me to do anything for myself; to study or work or go out to places. They saw

my life as just eating, drinking, and sleeping,” Mahmoud said.

Even simple desires like going shopping for clothes were denied to him, and his family’s shame in public because of his disability weighed heavily on him.

Inaboldanddaringmovethathekeptsecret from his family, Mahmoud applied for a visa to Australia with the help of an uncle. It took three long years for his visa application to be approved.

“Iwastiredofbeingtreatedasanon-human.

I wanted to get out of that storage room and study and work and build a future,” he

explained. Mahmoud was granted a subclass 202 visa, which is designed for individuals facing substantial discrimination or human rights abuses.

“When the visa came through, I didn’t accept straight away. I was unsure about what to do. I didn’t know what life would be like in Australia,butitcouldnotbeworsethanthelife I was living,” Mahmoud reasoned.

He embarked on research about Australia using his phone, discovering services for the blind and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

Mahmoud’s arrival in Australia marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. He became a client of AMES Australia, which, in turn, referred him to NDIS provider New Ability Services. With no friends or family in Australia, he found solace in supported accommodation.

At the heart of his newfound support system was Habib Alsaidie, his NDIS care worker. Habibplayedtherolesofguide,translator,and, most importantly, friend.

“Habib has done an amazing job for me. He is like a brother. I want to thank everyone who has supported me,” said Mahmoud.

Mahmoud’s happiness and newfound sense of independence in Australia were significant factors in his decision to make this journey.

“I came to Australia because I need to be independent. I want to learn English, study, and work. I want to have a family and build a future,” he said. He also hoped to reunite with his girlfriend Ana, who had been resettled in Germany with her family.

The early days in Australia were made easier with the generous gift of an iPhone from the Australian technology company MOORUP. This iPhone, equipped with vision

accessibilityfeatures,empoweredMahmoudto communicate, text, and call others simply by using his voice. It became his link to the world.

Mahmoud’s story is not the only of its kind. He is part of a growing number of refugees with disabilities finding safety in Australia. In 2023, AMES welcomed about a dozen newly arrived refugees with disabilities, a marked increase from previous years.

Anthony Ferretto, manager of operations andpracticeatAMES,explainedthechallenges these individuals face in their home countries and their anxieties about their settlement experience in Australia.

“In Mahmoud’s case, we approached the Department of Home Affairs for additional funding to support Mahmoud’s accommodation and personal care needs,” Mr Ferretto said.

This strategic planning led to Mahmoud’s placement in supported accommodation with a live-in carer who could communicate with him in his native language.

Today, Mahmoud stands on the threshold of a new life. He embodies resilience, courage, and the unshakeable belief in the human spirit’s capacity to rise above adversity. His journey from the shadows of despair to the light of hope is an inspiring testament to the compassion and support he has received from people and organisations dedicated to making a difference in the lives of refugees like him.

Mahmoud’s story reminds us that, with determination and a helping hand, even the darkest of circumstances can be transformed intoabrighterfuture.Ashepursueshisdreams of education, work, family, and independence, Mahmoudservesasabeaconofhopeforothers facing similar challenges, proving that the human spirit can thrive against all odds.

NDIS care worker Habib Alsaide, AMES operations manager Anthony Ferretto, Mahmoud Alsayad and AMES case manager Adiel Martin. (Pictures: Supplied)

Mahmoud with carer Habib.

‘‘ I was tired of being treated as a non-human.

I wanted to get out of that storage room and study and work and build a future ’’

- Mahmoud Alsayad

Carroll keeps west close to power

By Cade Lucas

Melbourne’s north-west has lost a premier but gained a deputy.

Former premier Daniel Andrews was born in Williamstown, but new deputy-premier, Ben Carroll, was born in Airport-West and represents the seat of Niddrie, taking in parts of Brimbank such as Keilor and Keilor Park.

The former public transport minister, who entered parliament in 2012, was briefly a contender for the top job before a deal was struck that resulted in Jacinta Allan replacing Andrews and Carroll replacing her as understudy.

It’s unlikely either will have the influence over Melbourne’s north west that the former premier did though.

Labor’s dominance over the area (where it holdseverystateandfederalseat)andAndrews dominance over it, meant he arguably weilded more power over the north and west than anyone before him.

This was demonstrated in the aftermath of his resignation as a succession of western suburbs Labor MP’s offered glowing tributes.

“He demonstrated his commitment to the west too in building the infrastructure our growing western suburbs require,” said federal MP for Lalor, Joanne Ryan.

“It’s been an honour to work with you in deliveringforMelbourne’sWest”saidLaverton MP Sarah Connolly.

“If you look out the window, you might be able to see a local legacy of Dan’s leadership,” said Footscray MP, Katie Hall, referencing infrastructure projects like the Westgate Tunnell and the new Footscray Hospital. Elsewherethereactionhasbeenmoremixed.

Altona GP and former national president of the Australian Medical Association, Dr Mukesh Haikerwal, praised Andrews’

leadership at the beginning of the pandemic when they cooperated to contain outbreaks in the west.

“That was very positive,” said Dr Haikerwal of their relationship before things went downhill.

“It sort of went off the rails when there were nonsensical directions, like the Westgate bridge provided some kind of barrier.

“If you were on one side of the bridge you wereintroubleandifyouwereontheotherside you weren’t,” said Dr Haikerwal of measures he described as cruel and militaristic, the most notorious of which was the locking down of public housing towers in Flemington.

”They were locked up and had limited services provided to them,” said general secretary of the Sudanese Community

Association of Victoria, Yassin Firea, whose members were among those affected.

“Yes some of them they are not happy about that experience.”

However, Firea said Andrews earlier defence of the Sudanese community during the African gangs crime scare meant he was still highly regarded.

“The media targeted them (Sudanese youth) really badly and politicians like Peter Dutton, his comments about the Sudanese were very inflammatory and made people feel they are not welcome in the community.

“The good thing about Daniel Andrews at the start of his term he stood up to this and started to make a positive impact in terms of dealing with Sudanese youth,” said Mr Firea wholivesinCarolineSpringsandalsocredited the former premier for building infrastructure in the west.

However, for Werribee South’s Joe Garra, it’s more about what the west missed out on under Andrews than what it received.

“We’re one of the few places that had level crossing removals but not station upgrades” saidMrGarrawhoispresidentoftheWerribee South Ratepayers Association.

“We’re not gonna get any benefit from the suburban rail loop for 30, 40 years at a minimum.”

It was this sense of neglect and being taken for granted that led Mr Garra to run as an independent at the last two state elections.

“It wasn’t as much about winning but making it more marginal so we could get some services.

The marginal seats get the most spending.”

He was sceptical that new premier Jacinta Allan would treat the west any different.

“We definitely need more focus but I don’t know how they’re gonna do it now without any money.”

Ben Carroll looks on as then Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews speaks to media following a tour of a level crossing removal site. (AAP Image/James Ross)

Independent retirement with Centennial Living

Centennial Living is a company that prides itself on generating a relaxed friendly atmosphere in its villages, where residents feel welcome and have a sense of belonging to a community.

The benefits of social connection and friendship, stimulating activities in a range of amenities, a safe environment and the feeling of support being there when needed has made Centennial’s villages happy places in which to live.

Centennial Living Keilor offers two levels of accommodation – independent living and serviced apartments.

Whilst maintenance and gardening is provided in the village, people who choose independent living reside in their own home and have the freedom to take care of meals, cleaning, laundry, and other household tasks how they wish.

When people may need more help, serviced apartments can be a good choice. Daily meals are served in the dining room or delivered to the apartment and weekly cleaning and heavy laundry is provided for serviced apartment residents. Other in-home care services can also be arranged to suit individual requirements.

Both styles of accommodation are fitted with emergency call systems.

While the seven Centennial villages in Victoria vary in some aspects, recreational facilities include indoor heated swimming pools, barbecue areas, a community centre and lounge, hobby garden, games room, arts and crafts, senior’s gym, bowling green, indoorbowls,men’sshed,aquaaerobicsanda hair and beauty salon. Pets are also welcome.

The resort-style living is ideal for people who want to downsize from the family home and have a lifestyle that offers social connection and absolute independence.

Inez, who has asked to have her surname omitted from publication, has been living in the Keilor village for eight years. She says that she really enjoys village life, and that the activities are very popular at Keilor but with no pressure to participate.

“You’ve always got support. You’ve always got someone here,” Inez says.

“You can do as much or as little as you want. There’s so much offering at the village, you’ve just got to tap into it and most people do.”

Like all Centennial Living villages, the Keilor village is close to shops, amenities, and recreation in the wider community. It is particularly close to health care – there’s a medical consultation suite near the entrance of the village.

For more information, visit www.centennialliving.com.au.

Inez has resided at Centennial Living’s Keilor village for eight years and absolutely loves it.

(Supplied)

Create a lifestyle only limited by your imagination

At Lifestyle Communities our homeowners are at the core of what we do.

We’re always so proud when we hear how their lives have changed since making the move. From stories of new-found connection to rediscovered passions, it’s always a joy to witness these transformations. It’s a testament to the genuinely life-changing

power of moving to a community of supportive, like-minded people, that over 50 per cent of our sales come from referrals. When you live in a Lifestyle Community, you get to live life on your own terms. With so much on offer, and so many opportunities open to you, your days are spent however you want. If you’re feeling like a change-up,

wanting more connection, or looking to dedicatemoretimetoyourpassions,Lifestyle Communities is here to make it possible. You can throw yourself into a hobby you’ve been neglecting, or take up a new one. You can head off jet-setting knowing your home is safe and secure while you’re away. And whether you love singing or

sport, trivia or tai chi, there’s an activity to get stuck into and a group to join. You’ll be living amongst people who, like you, are determined to get all the joy and excitement they can from life.

Create a life that suits you, amongst like-minded people, where the only limit is your own imagination!

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE PREMIERS

Picture: JAMES

Gardening the Japanese way

School holiday fun has wrapped up across Brimbank with students returning to class this week for the beginning of Term 4. Across the break, there were a range of fun-filled creative activities on offer for kids to fill their days with.

Star Weekly photographer, Damjan Janevski paidavisittotheWestvaleCommunityCentre in St Albans to capture local kids embracing their green thumbs in a step-by-step tutorial to learn how to create and take care of their very own mini Japanese moss ball, known as a Kokedama.

Above: Orlando, 5, showing off his green thumb.

Below: Elvie, 7, enjoying her school holiday break.

All smiles for Reizo, 11, and Xiya, 7, as they show off their Kokedama plants.

There were some budding gardeners at the Westvale Community Centre. Pictured are Chloe, 11, hard at work, and Oscar, 7, ready to take home his new Kokedama plant. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 361420

Giant school holiday fun

School holidays in Caroline Springs were a new type of “massive” with Giant Games and Sports coming to the the Caroline Springs Leisure Centre and Cobblebank Indoor Stadium. Among the array of oversized games kids could test their soccer skills on the four metre by four metre inflatable soccer dart kickball game then see how many goals they could score in 15 metre by 10 metre inflatable Soccer Pana Cage.

YOURNEWCAREER ...startshere

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

EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE

REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED

provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Charlotte, 6, on the big connect 4. Above right: Clement, 6, on the giant chess board.

Left: Jordan, 9, testing her skills on the soccer dart board. Centre: Alex, 9, taking his shot. Right: Axl, 9, defending the big goal. Above right: Jeremiah, 9, lines up for a goal. (Damjan Janevski)

Lachlan, 9, defending the goal.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED?

Walking football

Brimbank council is inviting locals to celebrate the Seniors Festival with a weekly walking football program commencing on Wednesday, October 4, and running every Wednesday for the month of October. All skill levels are welcome. Equipment provided.

■ https://www.trybooking.com/CKQDW

Be Bold Festival

Brimbank council is calling on locals to join the celebration of arts and culture in Melbourne’s west with the return of the Be Bold Festival. The free event will include performances, art, music, dance, food, children’s activities, creative workshops and more. All ages are welcome to attend the event on October 7, from 11am-5pm at the Bowery Theatre & Gallery and St Albans Community Centre.

Come and Try Fencing

Western Swords is offering free fencing training every Thursday during school terms, from 6.30-8pm, at St. Albans Meadows Primary School. All ages from 7 on up are welcome, and all gear is there to borrow.

■ https://www.westernswords.org/

Girl Guides

Brimbank Distict Girl Guides is inviting locals to come and try Guides before committing to join. Girls aged 5 to 18 and adults over 18 are invited to enjoy the fun and friendship of guiding.

■ Carolyn 0418 536 084

Teens gaming and gambling webinar

IPC Health, along with partners Brimbank council and Maribyrnong council, are hosting a free webinar about gambling in gaming. Aimed at adults, the webinar will look at the gamification of gambling and provide strategies to support young people as well as a Q&A. The free webinar will take place on October 17, from 7-8pm. Registration is required.

■ https://www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1097283

National Seniors Australia

Deer Park Branch of National Seniors Australia hosts 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

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

Sunshine Repair Cafe

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

share your skills while helping fix broken household items.

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

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.

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

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

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

St Albans senior citizens

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

■ Roma, 0435 991 064

Caroline Springs Rotary

The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings

in person or via zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall from 7pm.

■ rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Melton Ladies Probus

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

■ Dianne, 9743 7446

The Gap on Graham

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

■ Val, 0414 769 605

Melton Men’s Group

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

■ meltonmensgroup.home.blog

Take weight off naturally

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

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

Parkinson’s support group

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

■ Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Bridge Club

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

■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Melton Friendship Group

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

■ 0406 493 734

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club

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

■ Ann, 0425 705 150

Melton South Knit & Natter

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

■ 9747 8576

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Elvis tribute artist, Sean Spiteri who is helping to raise money for St Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Caroline Springs. (Damjan Janevski) 362808_01

PUZZLES

No. 153

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1 Trophy (3)

3 Great playwright (11)

9 Finger-end guard (7)

10 Tedious conversation (7)

11 Follower of Martin Luther (8)

12 2000 Olympic city (6)

14 And not (3)

15 Free (11)

17 Body of water to the East of Italy (8,3)

19 South (Span.) (3)

20 Royal male (6)

21 Original (8)

24 Drank (7)

25 Porch (7)

26 Anarchy (11)

27 Gosh (3)

DOWN

1 Disputed Spanish region (9)

2 Hint (7)

3 Cavalry sword (5)

4 Mediterranean port of Egypt (10)

5 Catch sight of (4)

No. 153

6 Excessively optimistic person (9)

7 Progress (7)

8 Before time (5)

13 Punctuation mark (10)

15 Showing a tendency to be easily angered (9)

16 Group of three taking part in an activity (9)

18 Colourful arc (7)

19 Voyaging on water (arch.) (7)

20 Small bottle (5)

22 Classifies (5)

23 Combines (4)

DECODER WORDFIT

WORD

Today’s

Aim:

S A I

O D R

E V

L

O O D H B

behold, beholds, bled, blood, blooded, bloods, BLOODSHED, bold, bole, bolo, boodle, dole, doled, doles, doodle, doodles, held, hold, holds, hole, holed, holes, lobe, lobed, lobo, lobs, lode, loos, loose, loosed, lose, oleo, slob, sloe, sold, sole, solo, soloed

No. 153

E D R G L A S S R A D I O O D D E R P E E V E E N D E R

QUICK QUIZ

1 How many rovers are in operation on Mars?

2 What is the main religion in China?

3 Formosan languages are indigenous languages of which island nation?

4 Bifanas (pictured) are a traditional dish of which country?

5 Explorer Vasco da Gama was the first European to sail to which ocean?

6 Collins class refers to what kind of sea vessel?

7 'Typhoon' is used to describe weather events in which hemisphere?

8 How many legs does a prawn have?

9 Which two countries start with an 'A' but do not end with an 'A'?

10 What grape variety is the most grown in the world today?

No. 153

No. 153

SPORTS QUIZ

1. What is the name of Super Netball’s newest team to debut this season?

2. Who was St Kilda’s first and only premiership coach?

3. West Ham defeated which team 3-1 in the Europa League Group A match?

4. Discussions have been raised for which accolade to be renamed after the late AFL legend Ron Berassi?

5. What position does Ellie Carpenter play in the Matildas national team?

6. What has been said to be the most-anticipated player match up in this year’s AFL preliminary final?

Which song plays each time Brisbane’s Charlie Cameron kicks a goal at a home game?

Which current AFL coach is the longest-serving in the league?

Which US ice hockey teams have come Down Under for a special game in the Global Series?

GWS defeated Collingwood by how many points during the 2019 preliminary final?

Two NHL teams appeared in the Global Series games played recently in which Melbourne venue?

12. Who defeated the Wallabies 40-6 in the Group Stage of the 2023 Rugby World Cup?

13. Which team won the 2023 VFL Grand Final?

14. Former Collingwood AFLW star Chloe Molloy joined which team for the 2023 season?

15. Which year did 2023 AFL Grand Final teams Collingwood and Brisbane Lions previously play off in a grand final?

16. Australian Tom Carroll is a former champion of which sport?

17. Before this season, when was the last time the Brisbane Broncos played in an NRL Grand Final?

18. What event did actor Jason Statham compete in for England at the 1990 Commonwealth Games?

19. How many points did Collingwood defeat the GWS Giants by in the 2023 AFL preliminary final?

20. Which NBL team plays its home games at MyState Bank Arena?

21. Brisbane overcame a 30-point deficit to beat Carlton by how many points in the preliminary final?

22. Which two teams qualified to play in the 2023 NRL Grand Final?

23. In what position did Oliver Piastri finish the 2023 Japanese Grand Prix?

24. Which two teams qualified to play off in the 2023 NRLW Grand Final?

25. Which Victoria-based Super Netball team withdrew its licence from competition at the end of the 2023 season?

Council Meeting Dates 2024

26. Charles ‘Chas’ Brownlow played for which VFL/AFL club?

27. How many marathons has women’s world record holder Tigist Assefa competed in?

28. Herbert Henry ‘Dally’ Messenger played rugby league for which Australian state/territory?

29. Which team won the 2023 A-League Men’s Grand Final?

30. Which team won the 2023 A-League Women’s Grand Final?

*Note: In accordance with Governance Rule 75.1, notice for each meeting listed above will indicate whether the meeting is to be conducted: 1. wholly in person; 2.wholly by electronic means; or

in person and partially by electronic means.

www.brimbank.vic.gov.au

localnewspaper...

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

Impressive SUV at bargain price

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Although Korean carmaker SsangYong has been in the Australian market for the past 20 years it has never been able to get close to the success of its compatriots Hyundai and Kia.

The company has gone through financial difficulties over the years and been taken over at different times by SAIC, Daewoo, Mahindra and, earlier this year, by a new entrant in the automotive scene – KG Mobility.

SsangYong currently has three models in its range, the Musso ute and two SUVs, mid-sized Korando and, this week’s test vehicle the medium-large Rexton.

Rexton languishes near the bottom of the large SUV segment well below the big hitters like Toyota Prado and Kluger, Ford Everest and Isuzu MU-X, which is a pity because, after our week behind the wheel, we came away highly impressed.

Drive-away prices starting from $47,990 makeitafairbitcheaperthanthesecompetitors with a seven-year warranty adding to the value equation.

Like the ute-based Everest and MU-X, the Rexton sits on the same platform as the SsangYong Musso.

Three variants are offered, ELX, Ultimate and Ultimate Sport Pack, formerly sold as the Black Edition.

A third variant, called Adventurer, will be added later this year that will slot between ELX and Ultimate in terms of both specs and price.

All come with seven seats, a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine, eight-speed automatic transmission and 3500kg braked towing capacity.

Styling

The constraints of fitting three rows of seats don’t allow for much flexibility in the roofline of large SUVs and Rexton has the same conservative profile as its rivals. Most of the work therefore gets done at the front and rear.

Rexton has an attractive intricate diamond-style grille with the company logo, which few people recognised, at the top/centre.

Both variants come with quad-style LED headlights, LED daytime running lights and LED front fog lights.

At the rear the tail lights and number plate lights are also LED.

The high-mounted stop lights are integrated into the rear spoiler.

Wheels are 18-inch diamond-cut alloys.

Rexton Ultimate adds privacy glass, powered sunroof and tailgate and iIlluminated front door scuff plates.

There are six colour choices: grand white, Atlantic blue, fine silver, marble grey, pearl white and space black.

The limited Black Edition is based on the Ultimate model and comes with a re-designed front with diamond-shaped grille elements, deep gloss black finish and new-style LED fog lights.

Other dark touches include black 20-inch alloy wheels and black painted roof rails.

There are only two colour options: space black or pearl white.

Interior

Like most in its class Rexton has a fairly high stance which can challenge shorter occupants, but on the positive side the high seating position provides ideal viewing.

There are thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) leather-look seats in all three rows.

The front seats are powered, comfortable and supportive as well as being heated and ventilated.

Attractive quilted trim can be found on the seats and around the front console.

Storage space is good with sliding covers for the drink holders and phone charging bay.

The rear seats are finished in the same quilted trim while the second-row seats can tilt backwards to about 50-degrees – subject of course to the approval of any third-row occupants.

Thesecond-rowalsohasafold-downarmrest with two cupholders and small storage area.

Ultimate adds driver’s seat and door mirror memory system, touch-sensing front door locks, heated leather steering wheel, ambient interior mood lighting and third row airconditioning controls.

Access to the third-row seats and space once there provides the usual challenges and are best left for children.

Even then the seating is low and there’s only small, triangular windows which provide a claustrophobic feel.

Boot space with all seats in place is limited.

Engine/transmission

The 2.2-litre turbo-diesel generates maximum power of 148kW at 3800 rpm and healthy peak torque of 441Nm from 1600 revs.

Fuel consumption is listed at 8.7L/100km.

The eight-speed automatic comes with the convenience of steering wheel mounted shift paddles.

It has part-time 4x4 with low and high range and an automatic-locking rear differential.

Safety

Although Rexton hasn’t undergone ANCAP crash testing it does come with a good range of safety equipment in both variants.

They include nine airbags, autonomous emergency braking with forward collision warning, lane change collision warning, safety distance warning, blind spot warning, smart high beam, front vehicle start warning, rear

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE

Rexton ELX: $47,990

Rexton Ultimate: $54,990

Rexton Ultimate Sport Pack: $56,990

SPECIFICATIONS

SsangYong Rexton 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-door wagon

cross traffic warning, tyre pressure monitoring system, Isofix child seat anchors for the outer centre seats and trailer sway control.

There are front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera, with a 360-degree camera in the Ultimate.

Infotainment

The larger of the two screens is the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster which can be customised to suit different situations.

At just eight inches, the infotainment touchscreen is smaller than we’re used to in the latest vehicles.

It’s also relatively basic and doesn’t include built-in satellite navigation in either variant.

There are six physical buttons and a round knob below the screen for the most commonly

used functions and more buttons and another knob for the air conditioning controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both wired and a wireless smartphone charger is added for the Ultimate.

Driving

Despite its modest 148kW power output, 441Nm of torque means the combination of 2.2-litre diesel engine and eight-speed auto transmission pulls the big vehicle along in a smooth, relaxed and surprisingly quiet manner.

It certainly loses nothing in comparison with its better-known and more expensive competitors.

Steering is relatively light and there’s a fair bit of body roll through corners, but that’s par for the course with large SUVs.

During our test we averaged 9.3L/100km, reasonably close to the listed 8.7 L/100km.

Summing up

We haven’t tested a SsangYong Rexton for quite a long time and came away pleasantly surprised.

It’s very well priced but not at the expense of safety equipment, convenience features or technology.

It not only beats competitors on price but comes with a seven-year unlimited warranty together with seven-year roadside assistance. Certainly worth a comparative test drive.

SsangYong Rexton is an affordable alternative in the family SUV market. (Pictures: Supplied)

Note: These are drive-away prices and include all government or dealer delivery charges.

Hard work pays off for winners

Finals fever hit Melbourne’s north-west the last six weeks with sporting finals across a number of different sports including, football, netball, basketball, hockey, lacrosse, soccer, tennis and the list goes on. Here’s some reader snaps of some of the sporting achievements in the finals.

Left: Caroline Springs under-14 premiers. Centre: MRTA association open winter pennant season winners Lancefield. (Supplied) Right: Under-16s grand final between Tarneit and Caroline Springs. (Robert Nichol)

Riddells Creek under-14 DF premiers in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition.

Riddells Creek under-14 LN runners-up in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition. (Pictures: Supplied)

Riddells Creek under-12 BW premiers in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition.

Riddells Creek under-19 MA runners-up in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition.

Riddells Creek under-16 girls MD div 1 Sunbury Basketball Association winter season premiers.

Riddells Creek under-16 GB premiers in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition.

Riddells Creek under-12 RG runners-up in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition.

Riddells Creek under-16 BW runners-up in Sunbury Basketball Association winter competition.

Knights’ fairy tale comes to a ‘roaring’ end

Melbourne Knights’ dream Australia Cup run has come to an end.

The campaign that will now live in Knights folk law was ended by A-League side Brisbane Roar last weekend.

The Knights were the last National Premier League club remaining in the final four, marking a truly special season for the Brimbank-based club, reaching semi finals in the NPL, Dockerty Cup and Australia Cup.

While the Roar were eventual 1-0 winners, with Thomas Waddingham scoring in the 18th minute, the Knights were more than competitive, holding possession for 48 per cent of the time.

More than 5100 fans packed into Knights Stadium to watch the Knights take on the Roar, and did not leave disappointed with the effort put up by the home side.

Knights’starattackerGianAlbano,whohas scored four goals across in the Australia Cup

campaign, was blown away with the support shown to his side.

“Very special night, I mean look at the attendance, it’s brilliant for the fans to come out, it’s definitely a 12th man for us,” he said on the post game broadcast.

“Unfortunately we couldn’t get the win, but it’s amazing the crowd that came out.

“It’s everything … it gives you that extra boost in the 90th minute, it’s amazing.”

Albano has been at the club since January 2019, with this match marking the end to his fifthseasonattheKnights,withamomentlike this something he has been long anticipating.

“[It means] absolutely everything, I’ve been waitingforthisforyears,throughCOVIDand all that which disrupted a couple of seasons,” he said.

Coach Ben Cahn has been fantastic for the club in his first season at the helm, winning the NPL Victoria coach of the year award in

early September.

Cahn has spent time around the country applying his trade and has recently been linked to a number of A-League coaching positions. Albano said he is ready to make the leap.

“[He is] 100 per cent ready. Just the commitment he’s shown to us, flying in between here and Brisbane, he’s just had a kid, it’s amazing the commitment he’s shown to us, 100 per cent he’s ready,” he said.

While the Knights 70th season comes to a close, it is one that will be looked on favourably, especially the epic Cup run with victories to Queensland club Lions FC, South Australia’s Campbelltown City and NPL Victoria’s Heidelberg United.

The Australia Cup final will be played on Saturday night when Roar take on Sydney FC.

Sports shorts

Kaing takes on the world

By Peter Howe

Theod ore Kaing returned from Bosnia as any thirteen-year-old teenager would, excited about what he has seen, talking about the fun that he had and the experiences he had.

The difference between Kaing, who is also known as Teddy, and other tourists was that he had just represented Australia in the 2023 Cadet World Taekwondo Championships.

“The fighting was so different to anything I had experienced,” he recalls. “I was supported by the other 17 athletes and coaches from Australia, it was a great team environment to be part of.”

Kaing’s bronze medal finish at the Bosnian Open, which he also competed while overseas also offered illuminating perspectives.

He observed distinct differences in fighting styles overseas and realised that his usual strategies weren’t as effective.

This eye-opening experience has prompted him to consider incorporating diverse techniquesintohisrepertoireforfuturebouts.

Among the key takeaways are the importance of proper nutrition and sleep, as well as the need for better preparation for the unique challenges of international competition

Kaing was enrolled into taekwondo by his

parents when he was four years old.

“I don’t think my family wanted me to sit on my backside, they wanted me to get active,” he said.

“I started with the basic moves. It was just the sport for me. I learned about how to kick, it was great and free from strict rules. I tried swimming but I really couldn’t see myself doing lap after lap of a pool.”

Kaing started his tournament competition slowly and he started to improve and by the end of 2018 the then seven-year-old was ranked number one in Victoria and first nationally in his division.

In 2019, Kaing was number one in Victoria but had lost his top national ranking, before regaining that national number ranking before COVID-19 hit in 2020.

To be selected to go to Bosnia in August, Kaing was ranked number one in Australia.

Kaing’s training program is hectic but well planned and supportive of his young age.

“I train four mornings a week at the Maribyrnong Sports Academy under the guidance of their strength and conditioning staff and taekwondo coaches.

“The program focuses on core strength and flexibility.

“My evening training sessions at the club, Notorious Martial Arts, focusses on sparring

for 2 hours a night and Saturdays. My mum makes me swim one afternoon a week to improve my cardio.”

Kaing lists his strengths as his speed and acknowledges that while in Europe he learned that he must develop his upper body strength.

He is currently a black belt with one stripe, called a ‘dan’, and has held a black belt for four years.

Taekwondo grades its fighters by age, height, and weight.

Kaing fights in the 152cm, 35-47 kilogram division.

“My aim is to represent Australia in the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane. “I will be 22 years old and moving into the peak of my career.

“It’s a tough ask because Australia will only select two men and two women to represent us. “Right now, I love everything about my sport.

“I am very grateful for everyone who supports me. I won’t let them down.”

The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsoredbytheYarravilleClubCricketClub, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers.

If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.

EDFL

Keilor players made up more than a quarter of the Essendon District Football League men’s premier division team of the year. Brad Xavier was named at centre half back, while Corey Ellis, who enjoyed his first full season with the Blues after returning to the club, and Nick O’Kearney round out the stacked engine room. Kyle O’Connor patrols the wing in the side, Matthew Clark at centre half forward and skipper Kane Barbuto were also named in the side. In the women’s premier division team of the year, Madeline Barton has been named on the half forward flank, while Megan Neill will again start in the ruck for the side.

A-League

Western United young gun Jake Najdovski has committed to Western United until the end of the 2025-26 A-League season. The 18-year-old attacker is western born and bred and has progressed rapidly through the talent pathway in the Western United Academy. After impressing in both the Under 21’s and the Under 23’s, Najdovski signed his first professional contract last year and made his senior debut in the Australia Cup against Edgeworth Eagles in August.

Coaching

The Western Region Football League is one of three regions to be involved in a new AFL Victorian female coaching academy. The academy which was launched last week, is aimed at attracting more female coaches into community football. The first edition of the female coaching academy is set to start in November this year and conclude in March 2024. The program will be piloted in three regions including the WRFL, as well as Barwon and the South East.

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Nick O’Kearney. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 362605_56

Harper Sercombe Gian Albano. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 350275_22_10

Teddy Kaing. (Supplied)

Another medal for Burnside Heights star Trang

Burnside Heights’ Krissy Trang consistent season has been rewarded, with the midfielder winning the Essendon District Football League Women’s division 1 best and fairest award.

Trang dominated the vote count winning by a massive 12 votes, finishing the count on 26 votes from her 16 matches.

She finished ahead of Essendon Doutta Stars’ Neve Crowley, who ended up with 14 votes.

This is Trang’s second league best and fairest award after winning the award in premier division in 2019 and she was also runners up last season.

Trang said this year’s award was a reward for hard work.

“I think I had an outstanding year, so when I got the invite [to the awards night] I wasn’t surprised but it’s always a privilege coming here, I love it,” she said.

“I think I deserve this one more [than the first] because in my pre season, on and off the field, I worked hard.

“I tried to lose a bit of weight and my fitness has gone up and it obviously has paid off with winning the best and fairest.”

Trang said the whole team improved this year, not just herself.

“Coming down from premier division to division one I think our girls were more switched on so I think we were up and about and wanted to get back into it straight away with pre season,” she said.

“This season was a lot better than last season for us girls.”

Burnside had a great season back in division 1 however, it is bittersweet as they had one foot in the grand final, when they lost in a thrilling preliminary final against Greenvale.

Burnside were up 15 points at three quarter time, yet it wasn’t enough.

“There were opportunities that we could have had that we missed, that last 10 seconds really broke us and all of us girls were heart broken, but it’s a part of footy,” Trang said.

“It’s [motivation] definitely, next year back

again, hopefully we make it to the top again and come back with a trophy.”

In the women’s division 1 team of the year, four Burnside players had the 24 player squad. Ebony Stevens was named at half back, while Kayla Ravanello was named on a half forward flank. Trang was named as a rover and Holly McGregor was named on the bench.

Alisa Magri from Greenvale won the goal kicking award with 48 majors, and Jets coach Troy Newton was named coach of the year.

Former Socceroo signs with United

Socceroos star Nikita Rukavytsya will add proven firepower to Western United’s attack in the A-League Men’s competition after signing a one-year deal with the club.

Rukavytsya has collected 23 Soccerooscapsspanningthreedifferent decades from his debut in 2009 to his latest appearance in 2021, testament to his consistency and continued quality. Two of his caps came at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa with substitute appearances against Germany and Ghana.

The pacey attacker was also a constant through various youth teams at international level and played in all three matches for the Olyroos at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.

Rukavytsya played with Maccabi Haifa last season and the side reached the UEFA Champions League group stage last season.

Zach Lisolajski. (Supplied)

Young Socceroo chance

By Tara Murray

This time last year, Zach Lisolajski had just finished the FV state league 1 north-west season with Sydenham Park.

Fast forward 12 months, and the teenager is getting ready to represent Australia as part of the Young Socceroos squad at the Marbella Week of Football in Spain.

The Marbella Week of Football is bringing together some of Europe’s top young international sides, with Australia joining the party for three matches across the week in mid-October.

Lisolajski said it was a very exciting opportunity.

“It’s a bit unexpected,” he said on Monday. “ThelastcoupleofdaysI’vehadallthesethings I’ve had to do.

“I’m pretty shocked and overwhelmed to get this opportunity. I’m really excited, not just for me, but for my family too, for my name I guess and put my name up there.

Lisolajski, who started playing soccer at Sydenham Park in under-7s before progressing up the ranks making his senior debut when he was just seven.

He spent last season with the Newcastle Jets, learningtheA-LeaguesystemaspartoftheJets academy.

Lisolajski said he couldn’t have dreamed of the last 12 months he’s had.

“Iwouldn’thaveexpectedtobewhereIamat the moment,” he said. “But I guess with all the hard work, you can get as far as you want to, if you go for it.”

Lisolajski said he enjoyed being up at the Jets having the opportunity to train full time with the A-League side while playing with the club’s National Premier League side.

He said he’s a different player to when he left.

“It was very good to learn how the system works, compared to say going back to Sydenham Park training.

From training three nights a week, to five times a week, every day, solid hard, high intensity and with good players.”

With a season in an A-League environment under his belt, Lisolajski has switched clubs in the off season, joining Western United on a youth development agreement.

He said he jumped at the chance to come back to Melbourne’s west.

“I spoke with my agent and it’s probably the

best option for me to come back home, not just for my football, for my family too,” he said.

“It is amazing, going to training every morning, knowing that you’re at home. When I’m at training I’m a different player being back home.”

Lisolajski,whosaidtheYoungSoccerooscall up is a step in the right direction, said he was hopingtomakehisA-Leaguedebutthisseason and be in the squad every week.

Western United football general manager said the quality Lisolajski has shown since arriving at the club justified his Young Socceroos selection.

“We have been extremely impressed with Zach since he came into our environment and we are delighted for him to have this opportunity with the Young Socceroos,” he said. “It is of continued importance for us to provide a platform for young players to thrive on an international scale and we are proud of Zach for earning this opportunity.

“Added to that, we are delighted to incorporate a talented young player from the west into our program and we look forward to watching his continued development at our Club.”

Rukavytsya has shone for Maccabi Haifa in Israel’s Ligat ha’Al for the best part of the last seven years, winning two golden boots and two league titles while also winning the Israel State Cup with Hapoel Be’er Sheva, where he spent one season in between two spells at Maccabi.

After putting pen to paper to join the green and black, Rukavytsya said he was looking forward to returning to Australia and helping the side challenge at the top of the league.

“I’m excited for this season,“ he said. “It’s a relatively fresh club but it already tasted success a few years ago and I’m looking forward to having a successful season.

“My main goal this season is to give my experience, quality and my 100 per cent to the club. From what I’ve heard, there are great people and everyone who’s involved with the club, and the fans.

“So hopefully we can have a successful season and make everyone and the fans happy.”

Western United coach John Aloisi said Rukavytsya’s introduction to the side would add significant quality on the pitch and invaluable leadership off it.

Krissy Trang (Ljubica Vrankovic) 350281_04_5

Storm ready to bowl over the senior divison

Sydenham-Hillside is ready for the challenge of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division season.

It has been a rapid rise of the VTCA for the Storm, winning premierships in four of the last five seasons, resulting in it climbing from division 4 in the 2018-19 season to senior division for the upcoming summer.

NowtheStormisreadytohitthecompetition once again said new coach Warren Hackney.

“It’s going to be a big step but we’re looking forward to the challenge,” he said.

“We’ve been pretty fortunate and been able to hold onto most of the guys and top up a little bit by adding what we thought might help our push in the higher grade.

“So we’re hopeful of being competitive.”

One of the Storm’s big signings for the

summer is Scottish fast bowler Adrian Neill.

Neill has a number of international appearances under his belt and has recently been involved in World Cup qualifiers where Scotland fell agonisingly short of qualifying for the ICC Cricket World Cup being held in India

later this month.

“We’re excited by the fact that he’ll be able to offer us something a bit different to what we’ve had with his extra height and bounce,” Hackney said. “So we’re looking forward to having him on board.

“We’ve also got a couple of guys who we’re looking to bring in who are not as big of names… but they’re guys that we envisage will help us improve.”

It’s Hackney’s first year at the helm of the Storm,afterbeingachampionplayeroftheclub being the all-time leading first XI run-scorer, a five-time premiership player, a former captain amongst other accolades.

Now as he sets to lead the club he loves to senior division glory, Hackney is not setting a ceiling at what his side can accomplish.

Gorillas back on the climb

By Harper Sercombe

Grand United is continuing to build ahead of theVictorianTurfCricketAssociationdivision 2 season.

The Gorillas, who won last season’s division 3 title, have had a number of changes in the off season as they get ready to compete at the higher level.

“We want to be where we are for now, but we don’t want to be there for longer than what we need to, we’re pretty ambitious and we’re looking to climb even higher,” president Alan Hale said.

“We’re looking forward to the challenge but at the same time there’s a longer term plan to get to that top division of the competition, and hopefully in the not too distant future.

“The short term goal is the ‘GU’ way, we go out there to win every week and going up a division’s not going to change our mindset or the way we approach every game.”

The club have announced several signings with more to come over the next week.

Scottish international Oliver Davidson joins the club as a big signing.

“Ollie is a highly talented all-rounder playing two ODI’s [one-day internationals] for Scotland and making his List A debut for Worcestershire in English County Cricket,” the Gorillas said on social media.

“NotonlywillOlliebefeaturingwithbatand ball this summer, but he will also be working closely with our junior program.”

The signing of Robinson comes after the Gorillas announced the re-signings of two key players in last season’s premiership.

Jayden White-Powell is back from a third season at the club.

“Since joining the club two seasons ago; the hard-hitting opener has been a mainstay at the top of the GU batting order taking the game to opposition attacks,” the club said.

“We can’t wait to see him out in the middle and behind the stumps at Parsons Reserve this summer.”

Premiership winning coach Sam Crea is also back on board this season.

“Taking 32 wickets after returning from Premier Cricket, Sam was instrumental in leading the mighty Gorillas to premiership success in season 2022-23,” the club said.

All-rounderHashanJameshasalsore-signed for the upcoming reason, the club said James was “an integral part of our club’s successes.”

Kane Holden returns to the Gorillas senior ranks after a strong junior career, Cameron Howitt is back for another season, Kyle Holden has also signed on along with premiership all-rounder Sachinta Silva.

Hale hinted at the announcements of more international recruits to arrive before the season kicks off on the weekend.

“We’re keeping it under wraps,” he said.

“A couple of international, high level recruits whoplayinavery,veryhighlevelcompetition.”

While the Gorillas have been on a recruiting spree, Hale said the club were able to retain the core of their premiership side.

“One of our great strengths is having a strong junior program and guys that have been at the club a long time don’t generally like to go elsewhere,” he said.

“I think in last year’s premiership we had six people play junior cricket at the club.”

The Gorillas will face Keilor Park on Saturday afternoon to kick off their summer.

“The first goal is to stay up,” he said.

“But we’ve been fortunate enough to climb through the grades fairly quickly, so each year we’ve not wanted to set any limit in what we thought could be achieved.

“Although this year is a much bigger step I feel than those we’ve taken in the last four or five years, we’re not wanting to put too much pressure on ourselves.

“So who knows if we do manage to get things right, the sky’s the limit, anything’s possible.

“We’d be wrapped to think we could make finalsandifyoucandothat,anything’spossible from there.”

The Storm will face last year’s grand finalists Deer Park when the season kicks off on October 7.

Harper Sercombe

VTCA Fixture released

The Victorian Turf Cricket Association fixtures have been finally released ahead of the season kicking off this weekend. Clubs will play nine two-dayers and just three one-dayers this season in return to more games of the longer format.

Last season several games which were scheduled for two-dayers became one-dayers after much of the first part of the season was washed out.

As reported by Star Weekly, there has been a late change to the senior division with Westmeadows staying in the top flight and Haig Fawkner going down to division 1, the Isaacs Howarth Shield.

The season starts with a one-dayer across all the top grades.

Aberfeldie hosts last season’s premiershipYarravilleClub,Craigieburn faces Westmeadows in the local derby, Deer Park hosts the promoted Sydenham-Hillside, the Druids play Sunshine United and St Albans faces Keilor.

In the Isaacs Howarth Shield, there have been a number of changes from last season which has followed on into other divisions.

West Coburg and St Andrews have merged and will play in that division, while Haig Fawkner has dropped down andFootscrayUnitedhasbeenpromoted, their third promotion in three years.

Round one matchups include Altona North hosting Sunshine, Footscray United against Seddon and Haig Fawkner taking on PEGS.

Division 2, the McNamara Shield, has also had a few changes.

Tullamarine has dropped down from division 1, while both Sunbury and Grand United have been promoted.

In round one, Altona Roosters face Williamstown CYMS, Grand United plays West Newport, Greenvale KangaroostakeonTullamarine,Sunbury plays Keilor Park and Newport-Digman plays Royal Park Brunswick.

In division 3, the Roy Picone Shield, Sunshine Heights avoided relegation while Maribyrnong Park St Marys has been promoted.

Division 4, the Clark Shield, is completely different from last season, with the top four teams of division 5 all being promoted.

It means East Coburg, Footscray Angliss, Melton South and Point Cook Centrals are all in the higher division. The division 5 is yet to be released.

Ben Green. (Joe Mastroianni) 273069_02

Grand united celebrate a wicket. (Joe Mastroianni) 274015_06