Star Weekly - Northern - 10th October 2023

Positive pathways are key at Lalor North Secondary

Imagine the finest possible education for your child…

Lalor North Secondary College has no ordinary learning environment. A stimulating, intimate, and inclusive setting, committed to small student teacher-ratios, we are passionate about academic rigour, positive student outcomes, and a confident self-image for every young person.

Our educators are highly experienced professionals, dedicated to excellence and continuous improvement for their students and for themselves.

Every Year 12 student (bar none) discovers

Principal Timothy Cottrell

a highly positive pathway - be it academic or vocational - and we congratulate them all, for they are our future. These fine people will always be members of our proud community.

Last year’s dux received an ATAR above 95 and more students received an ATAR over 80 and over 90.

Our students also have the opportunity for early university entry during Year 12.

Secondary education is an adventure that should flow seamlessly from the primary years, providing excitement, growth, and joy into adolescence and beyond.

Therefore, positive student engagement,

careful guidance, and genuine, authentic human relationships in learning is our priority.

Our young people come to us as children and we wave them off as young adults who continue to create their future.

We take this awesome privilege very seriously indeed.

Our families are our partners and we join with you closely throughout your child’s learning experience. We provide great care, reassurance, and close communication every step of the way. With continued infrastructure enhancement at the college

andinourlocalarea,andourproximitytothe wonderful natural heritage of Darebin Creek, we are blessed with surely one of the most beautiful campuses in Melbourne. We offer very substantial student scholarships in every area of achievement, and these are designed to maximise academic, social, and emotional growthandopportunityforouryoungpeople. It would give me great pleasure to meet with you and your children to share the wonderful educational environment that is Lalor North Secondary College.

Timothy Cottrell, Principal

Lalor Secondary College marks 60 years of education

In 2023, Lalor Secondary College celebrates 60 years of providing an engaging, caring, educational program for the local areas of Lalor, Thomastown and Epping. As part of the celebrations, the school community is reflecting proudly on the many aspects that havemadethisagreatschooloveralongperiod oftime.Thisincludesthewonderfulpeoplethat have been involved previously with the college as staff, students and parents, including the current staff, students, parents and community organisations that continue to establish our school as a calm, caring college that maintains

very high academic expectations for all students.

The focus of the college in recent years has placed the established tradition of academic successalongsidethewellbeingofourstudents.

This has led to students graduating from the college ready for the challenges of their chosen pathways whether it be university, TAFE, apprenticeships or employment. This focus has been supported by extensive extra-curricular opportunities such as the college’s foundation partnership with the ABCN.

Theongoingsocialdevelopmentofstudentsis

also supported by a well-established wellbeing team that includes a school psychologist, three school counsellors and a full time careers leader. This team provides counselling, transition, pathways and career development programming from years 7 to 12 ensuring all students are provided rich opportunities to determine their pathways to a successful future.

The school’s future direction is incredibly exciting and includes the Victorian government and Lalor Secondary College School Council capital works project totalling

$27million.Theworksareduetobecompleted at the end of 2023 and will include a new double court gymnasium, food technology and PE classrooms, a new administration area, wellbeing and library area, a new arts hub, new design technology building, new cafeteria, and a new senior school area.

The newly opened Innovation Centre with two digital technology spaces and a purpose-built maker space and science centre will complement the facilities and continue to allow the curriculum to adapt to the needs of the modern workforce.

The college has one of the most beautiful campuses in Melbourne. (Supplied)

NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND.

St Monica's College, Epping

"Education creates identity".

Proudly, we are 9% above the state-wide average when it comes to our students receiving a University place. We are equally proud to be above the state-wide average regarding TAFE enrolments.

success".

According to The Age's "Schools That Excel" report...

65%

22%

13%

of our Year 12 cohort chose to enrol in University.

of our Year 12 cohort were accepted into TAFE courses.

of our Year 12 cohort pursued apprenticehips and/or employment.

www.stmonicas-epping.com/apply

"Define your own

A bloody superhero

In 1972, Murray Burnes rocked up to a donor centre looking to give blood as a way of managing his then-chronic nose bleeding.

Fifty-one years later he notched up his 850th donation at Lifeblood’s Bundoora Donor Centre on September 22.

Mr Burnes is proud to reach the 850 milestone and has no intention of stopping. “I once had an opportunity to meet a person one of my donations saved after an emergency transfusion, and it was so powerful,” he said. “That moment stays with me as a reminder of the impact blood and plasma donations can have.”

Lifeblood spokesperson Ashleigh Hales said Mr Burnes is an incredible example of someone making a meaningful difference. “One blood donation can save up to three lives, so Murray has saved an incredible 2,550 lives over the years. He is a superhero,” she said.

The Bundoora Lifeblood Donor Centre is open seven days a week. More than 1900 donors are needed in the next month to keep up with the demand for blood and blood products.

New city for the north

By Gerald Lynch

Hume, Whittlesea and Mitchell Shire councils have co-signed an historic partnership committing to the planning and delivery of a new city, Cloverton, that will service the growing northern corridor.

The agreement was reached at a special joint council meeting on Tuesday October 3

Cloverton will be the primary employment and service hub for emerging suburbs of the north including Mickleham, Kalkallo, Donnybrook, and Wallan after being designated as a Metropolitan Activity Centre by the state government.

Cloverton will house 380,000 residents and

provide 50,000 jobs when completed. The city will include shopping, health services, education and recreational facilities. The new city straddles all three council boundaries.

All three mayors agreed that the large scale of the Cloverton area and its strategic location in Melbourne’s rapidly developing northern growth corridor called for a joint effort to deliver the services and community infrastructure required.

Hume Mayor Joseph Haweil said the first-of-its-kind regional partnership is critical in order to meet the challenges ahead and ensure the new city is delivered effectively.

“We know what’s needed to better the lives of our northern communities is a coordination

of effort, imagination and resources,“ he said.

“Through our important local alignment, we are sharing the vision of helping communities stay connected by having access to essential services close to home.

“Cloverton city will ensure the large populationinClovertonandsurroundsremain connected and serviced through a centralised hub close to home, something that can only be achieved through careful coordination of our resources and collaboration across our three council areas as well as the state government.”

WhittleseachairadministratorLydiaWilson agreedontheimportanceofcollaborationwith neighbouring councils, saying it is the best outcome for present and future residents of

the north. “We are thrilled to be a key partner in the creation of a new city of such regional significance right here in the north,” she said.

“As a designated Metropolitan Activity Centre, it is vital that we also work closely with the Victorian Government to ensure the establishment of Cloverton is underpinned by high quality planning and development.

“By working together, we can create exciting new communities where people and families can grow and thrive. We want to create neighbourhoods that cater for the social, economic and infrastructure needs of our diverse community now and into the future.”

Planning for Cloverton is now underway with further consultation to come.

Murray says he has no plans to stop donating. (Supplied)

Shoppers shocked by shooting

By Melissa Meehan, AAP

Four men remain on the run after they killed a man and injured another in a targeted daylight shooting at a busy Craigieburn shopping centre.

The balaclava-clad men surrounded their victim’s white Mercedes before firing multiple shotsintothepassengersideandrearwindows as shocked shoppers watched on, just before 3pm on Saturday at Cragieburn Shopping Centre. A 27-year-old Craigieburn man in the car died at the scene.

Theotherman,a28-year-oldfromHadfield, was taken to hospital in a serious condition where he remains in a stable condition.

Crime command commander Paul

O’Halloran said the incident appeared targeted and linked to organised crime.

“This is a particularly serious and concerning incident, which would have been incrediblyfrighteningforthepeoplewhowere in the car park at the time,” he told reporters on Sunday.

“It’s a terrible incident and we are thankful that no one else was injured.”

Two abandoned burnt out cars found in nearby suburbs are believed to be linked to the shooting.

Investigators believe one of the gunmen may have burnt themselves while setting the cars alight.

Detectives are also investigating whether a shooting at a Keilor house in September is

linked to the shooting victim.

Mr O’Halloran said Saturday’s incident was the most recent in a spate of targeted shootings between criminals, including the similar daylight execution of underworld figure Gavin Preston in Keilor.

He stopped short of linking the shootings butsaidinvestigatorswouldprobeallavenues, including whether it was part of ongoing tensionsbetweenorganisedcrimegroupsover illegal tobacco trade or drug importations.

“There is a number of disputes that are occurring within organised crime groups,” he said.

“Some of them relate to illicit tobacco, some of them relate to drug importation and some can be other financial or personal disputes -

Supporting disadvantaged children

Big Group Hug has settled into its new Thomastown warehouse and is now gearing up for a massive Children’s Week.

Children’s Week is a national celebration of children’s rights and their right to play. This year’s theme and focus is that children have the right to relax, play, and take part in activities they enjoy.

As Children’s Week approaches from October 21 to 29, Big Group Hug invites and encourages the community to support disadvantaged children by making a donation orhostingortakingpartinafundraisertohelp

raise funds for families in need.

Manager Maria Quigley urges everyone to getinvolvedwithChildren’sWeekinafunway.

“We want workplaces and other groups within the community to host a fundraising morning or afternoon tea with the theme of kids’partyfood,akids’partyforkidsinneedif you will,” she said.

“Bring along your favourite childhood party food and take a trip down memory lane all whilst raising vital funds for disadvantaged children in Victoria.”

Big Group Hug is also running a children’s

Motorcyclist awareness key

Hume and Whittlesea motorcycle fatalities in 2023 remain at zero, as the Transport Accident Commission (TAC), Department of Transport and Planning and Victoria Police launch motorcyclist awareness month.

DatareleasedonOctober3,2023,revealsthat no motorcyclists have died on neither Hume norWhittlesearoadssofarthisyear,compared to four each in 2022. These low numbers are no coincidence, and drivers need to remain vigilant on the road to ensure northern roads stay safe for motorcyclists.

TACheadofroadsafetySamanthaCockfield said 60 per cent of motorcyclist fatalities involve other vehicles, making it crucial for drivers to do their part in ensuring the roads are shared safely. “Everyone needs to be aware of who they’re sharing the road with,” she said. “Motorcyclists are encouraged to wear

appropriate protective gear, and drivers should double check for riders at intersections and when changing lanes.”

So far this year, 35 motorcyclists have died on Victorian roads and more than a quarter of these fatalities have occurred since the beginning of spring. TAC said motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable of road users – accounting for 17 per cent of deaths and serious injuries, despite only making up four per cent of registered vehicles. The month-long awareness campaign, led by the Motorcycling CommunityEngagementPanel,willencourage both motorists and motorcyclists to share the road safely. So far this year Hume and Whittlesea have recorded three and four lives lost respectively on its roads for all road users.

Gerald Lynch

Week drawing competition.

The theme is The Gift of Giving, celebrating actsofkindness,generosity,andsharing.There are two age groups, 5-8 years and 9-12 years, with entries closing October 29.

EntriescanbedroppedintotheThomastown and Airport West warehouses, or sent digitally via the email info@biggrouphug.org

Morningteafundraiserscanberegisteredon the BGH website: childrensweek.biggrouphug. org/signup

Gerald Lynch

so we are working to carefully understand the motivation behind the attacks.”

State Anti-Gangs Superintendent Jason Kelly said it was unclear if the Craigieburn shooting was linked to the tobacco war. He said a new task force was formed with stateandfederalagenciestotargetthegrowing tensions between Middle Eastern organised crime figures.

Luna Taskforce representatives on Sunday arrested 30 people in relation to arsons and extortions, including tobacconists, in the northern suburbs.

Premier Jacinta Allan described the “very public” incident as “very distressing” but said Victoria Police had the tools and resources to investigate.

Nature strip shake up

Whittlesea Council’s new Nature Strip Garden Guidelines will provide residents with more options when designing and maintaining nature strips.

Residents can now apply to plant edible crops in removable planter boxes, providing the opportunity to grow their own produce, as well as adding plants and shrubs up to a height of 90cm.

These changes will allow a greater variety of plants, helping to create vibrant and diverse neighbourhoods.

Whittlesea Council chair administrator Lydia Wilson encouraged residents to explore the new guidelines and learn how they can modify the nature strip adjacent to their property.

“These new guidelines reflect our community’s desire to shape the look and feel of their surroundings, while highlighting our commitment to sustainability and safety,“ she said.

“In addition to the environmental and safety benefits, the guidelines will help add to the appeal of our neighbourhoodsandofferopportunities for people to connect with neighbours over urban gardening. Beautifully landscaped nature strips create a sense of pride among residents and improve the overall amenity of our community.”

The guidelines outline what modifications can be made to nature strips, while prioritising the safety of road users and pedestrians by ensuring clear pathways for movement.

Residents can apply for nature strip modification via the council website.

The Big Group Hug team are encouraging donations of all kinds ahead of Children’s Week. Pictured are: Maria Quigley, Savannah Li, Stephanie Nabbout, Bianca Conry and Sydni Saldana. (Damjan Janevski) 364824_06

Disgust at playground rubbish

By Gerald Lynch

We wouldn’t blame you if you thought you werelookingatalocaltip,butthesephotosare of the Mill Park all abilities play space.

It is one of the biggest and best parks in the Whittlesea municipality, fully fenced and equipped with an accessible playground, including water play, a multi-level climbing tower, a full sized basketball court, multiple sheltered areas and more.

Mill Park resident Mikayla Edwards was appalled when she took her young child to the play space to find it littered with rubbish.

“It’s just disgusting,” she said.

“Imagine being a ratepayer, taking your kids to the park and being confronted with this mess. People need to take more pride in the area.”

Ms Edwards said she visits the Mill Park all abilities play space regularly, and that it is

usually far more well kept.

“Theexcessofrubbishhasonlybeenpresent inthelastfewweeks,butit’sgettingworseand worse, the bins and parks are obviously not being maintained,” she said.

She reached out to Whittlesea council through its Snap Send Solve app.

A spokesperson from the Whittlesea Council said they were aware of the issue and but urged the community to manage their own waste output.

“The bins were emptied and are emptied on a regular schedule. We know it’s a busy time for our parks in school holidays and we always encourage our residents to consider ways to reduce the amount of rubbish they generate,” the spokesperson said.

Bins overflowing, and rubbish where children play. (Pictures: Supplied/Mikayla Edwards)

Josie’s dinner dance is back to raise funds

Local fundraising hero Josie Minniti is inviting the community to come together for a night of fun, fundraising and dancing to support cancer services in conjunction with Northern Health.

A long-time supporter and patron of the Northern Health Foundation, Mrs Minniti has been fundraising for cancer services in Melbourne’s north for more than two decades.

Comingintoits26thyear,theAnnualDinner Dancehasbecomeahighlyanticipatedeventin thecommunity,bringingpeoplefromallwalks of life together to raise funds for a wonderful cause, while celebrating the connection of family and friends.

“Thiseventmeanstheworldtome,”saidMrs Minniti. “We’ve come a long way in the fight against cancer, but there is still much work to be done.

“Together, we can make a difference and ensure that those facing cancer receive the best possible care and support.”

Northern Health Foundation director Melissa Grenville can’t speak highly enough of the work of Mrs Minniti.

“Josie fundraises tirelessly to support cancer services at Northern Health to ensure patients

canreceivethebestpossibletreatmentduringa difficult time,” she said.

“She has made a huge contribution to our hospitaloverthemanyyearsshehasfundraised

Are you aged 70 years or older? You must still vote in the 2023 Referendum

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

for us, and we look forward to this upcoming event.”

The event will he held on October 28 at Ferraro Reception Centre, Campbellfield.

Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1091530

Gerald Lynch

New community space open

Mickleham locals can look forward to more family-friendly spaces thanks to recently completed works on the new Mickleham South community centre.

The centre provides the growing local community with two new kindergarten learning rooms, a playground and a storage shed, as well as four consulting rooms for maternal and child health services and specialist services.

Community members can also access the new centre’s multipurpose rooms, a commercial kitchen, a training room and gathering spaces.

The centre was upgraded as part of the Growing Suburbs Fund, a state government fund supplying grants of up to $2 million to build the facilities needed in fast growing suburbs.

Hume Council also contributed more than $3.6 million to the project, which mayor Joseph Haweil said was necessary and important spending.

“Facilities such as this one are an integral part of the community as they provide a safe space for locals to connect, learn and benefit from each other,” he said. “Hume is one of Melbourne’s fastest growing council areas, and with that comes a great need to ensure the familiesthatmoveintoourdevelopmentareas are provided the essential services they need to feel healthy, supported, and included.”

Minister for Suburban Development Ros Spence was also at the opening of the centre, and she was thrilled for the people of Mickleham to have access to such a great space.

“It’s wonderful to see this project completed for the growing Mickleham community, who can now access more key services closer to home,” she said.

“Supporting projects like the Mickleham South Community Centre is about helping to create more liveable neighbourhoods and more connected and equitable communities.”

Josie at last year’s dinner dance. She’s hoping for another great night of fun and fundraising. (Supplied)

Minister for Suburban Development Ros Spence and Hume Mayor Joseph Haweil with community members at the unveiling of the new Mickleham South Community Centre.

(Hume Council)

After a successful first event, Alpha Wrestling is returning to Pipeworks Market on October 15, 2023 for another weekend of high-flying, bone-crunching action. Get ready for another weekend of edge-of-your-seat thrills as your favorite wrestlers battle it out for supremacy. There will be something for everyone, from high-flying aerialists to bone-crunching powerhouses. So don't miss out on all the excitement! Mark your calendar as early as now and prepare for a weekend of wrestling that you'll never forget!

Discover a wide variety of goods, artisan products, fresh produce, delectable delights, refreshing drinks, trash & treasure, and exciting performances.

Fresh Fruits & Veggies

Discover the enchanting realm of Pipeworks Market, where the beauty of nature's bounty awaits. Indulge in a diverse assortment of fresh and cost-effective produce that will entice both your senses and budget. Come on over this weekend, only here at Pipeworks Thomastown Market!

Shutting the door on gambling

Mandatory closure periods for gaming machine areas will kick start the state government’s latest gambling reforms, following Hume council holding its first gamblingharmsymposium.

On October 3, Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Minister Melissa Horne announced a bill to enforce mandatory closure periods for all gaming machine areas in venues, except Crown Casino, between 4amand10am.

In August alone, a staggering $12 million

was lost to Electronic Gaming Machines in venues across Hume, and $13 million in Whittleseavenues.

Whittlesea chair adminstrator Lydia Wilson said that council supports the reform, andasaMemberoftheAllianceforGambling Reform, Whittlesea Council is dedicated to gamblingharmminimisation.

“Whittlesea Council welcomes the Victorian Government’s legislative reforms for gambling harm minimisation, including closinggamingroomsbetween4amand10am,

Festive singers wanted

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Melbourne’s north with the Whittlesea Community Carols Choir set to begin rehearsals!

Rehearsals are starting on October 11 and will be held every week in the lead up to December 15, when the choir will perform at theWhittleseaCarolsbyCandlelight.

Led by a professional choir leader, the rehearsals will be a fantastic opportunity to meet new people from within the local area, as well as getting to enjoy the fun of singing inachoir.

Mernda resident Shelley Matthews moved to Australia from Ireland more than a decade ago, and has been a part of the choir since 2013,shecouldn’tspeakanyhigherofit.

“Iwaslookingaroundforsocialgroups,just tryingtomakesomefriendsandgetoutinthe community and I stumbled across a flyer at theshopsforthechoir,”sheexplained.

“I really enjoyed it right from the start, I loveChristmas,carols,andsinging.”

Ms Matthews was heavily pregnant when she joined the choir 10 years ago, and joked that her daughter is the group’s youngest ever member.

“You don’t have to be able to sing to join, the group is open and accepting of people of all ages and singing abilities, my dad comes down from Ireland over the holiday period and just comes and gets involved as much as hecan.

“It is a great chance to meet new people and embrace the Christmas spirit,” said Ms Matthews.

Rehearsals are every Wednesday in the Whittleseacouncilofficesfrom7-9pm.

Details: https://arts.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/ what-s-on/workshops/community-carolschoir-2023/

The

What’s on

and we continue to advocate for alternative latenightsocialoptionsforourcommunityat riskofgamblingharm,”shesaid.

Hume Mayor Joseph Haweil said council has been in regular contact with the state government advocating for immediate state mandated regulation of the gambling industry.

“What concerns me greatly as mayor is knowing that Hume’s diversity and socio-economic status make our residents vulnerable to methods used to lure people

into gambling,” he said. “We will continue to push for all proposed reforms to be implemented including mandatory carded play, pre-commitment, a self- exclusion program,andload-uplimits.”

AtitssymposiuminCraigieburnonOctober 2, council hosted experts and advocates to send a strong message to policy makers on Hume’s desire for change. Speakers included Dr Charles Livingstone discussing gambling harm,journalistStephanieConveryonsports gamblingandhumanitarianTimCostello.

Celebrating Seniors

Enjoy activities and events as part of the month-long Seniors Festival celebrations.

Throughout October, senior residents can enjoy free golf lessons, dance classes, movies, music and more. These activities are a great opportunity to connect and have fun with others in your community.

To view full event schedule visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/seniorsfestival

For assistance with booking, please call City of Whittlesea’s Ageing Well team on 9217 2170, or email ageingwell@whittlesea.vic.gov.au

Come and chat to us in Epping

When: Tuesday 17 October 2023, 6.15pm - 10pm

Where: Galada Community Centre 10A Forum Way, Epping

For more information visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/events

whittlesea.vic.gov.au

choir is open and accepting of people of all ages and abilities. (Supplied)

Mental health to the fore

Sinead O’Connell has dealt with mental health issues all her life and has been assisted by many professionals, but now it’s her turn to help others through their struggles.

Thanks to a new free course at Kangan Institute, Ms O’Connell is completing a Certificate IV in Mental Health.

She says the program has enabled her to progress her personal quest to work in the mental health field.

“I’m studying this course because I’ve suffered from mental health issues all my life. I’m in recovery, but I’m in a place now where I can help other people,” Sinead said.

“I’ve been in and out of the mental health system for probably 23 years and I saw a lot of youth just not getting the support they deserve and I just want to give back.

“I hope to empower people to choose a quality life. I hope to empower people to advocate for themselves and to see past their illness and see themselves as a human being.”

Kangan Institute acting chief executive officerJanelleArenasaidthenewmentalhealth course is designed to prepare individuals for a career in an in-demand sector.

“We are thrilled to be part of the learning journey of our new mental health students, and we look forward to the impact that they’ll make as part of the future mental health workforce.”

Kangan Institute is celebrating World Mental Health Day on October 10 with a spotlight on students who are preparing for a career in mental health support.

Briefs

Fatal stabbings

Two people have died in separate stabbing incidents. A Campbellfield man was charged with murder following a stabbing on October 2. A verbal altercation broke out between two men on Scammel Street at about 1.30pm. A 55-year-old Campbellfield man was taken to hospital with life threatening injuries and later died. The alleged perpetrator, a 57-year-old Campbellfield man, was arrested at the scene and charged with one count of murder. In an earlier incident, a 46-year-old Craigieburn woman was charged with murder after a fatal stabbing at Clonbinane. Homicide Squad detectives charged the woman following the death of a man just after 11.30pm on Saturday September 30. Emergency services were called to Spur Road where a man was found with a stab wound in a vehicle. The 50-year-old man died on the scene.

Blessing of the fleet

The City of Whittlesea Civic Centre hosted the 27th annual Blessing of the Fleet on Saturday October 7. Emergency personnel, as well as staff from councils, joined religious leaders from the Bahá’í, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu and Islamic Dua communities. Blessings were offered for the emergency service personnel and their equipment ahead of the fire season.

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Sinead O’Connell with one of her Kangan teachers Rebecca May. (Supplied)

Fords back to life in Mickleham

By Gerald Lynch

Ford Australia, along with engineering specialists RMA Automotive, have begun re-manufacturing right-hand drive F-150 trucks for Australian customers at a production facility in Mickleham.

Star Weekly was invited to a tour of the impressive 21,000 square metre facility, where the team, composed mainly of locals, was wasting no time on getting to work on the re-manufacturing of Ford’s iconic trucks.

The level of detail and care being put into the trucks was fascinating, with an assembly line boasting 65 individual stations.

The facility has the capacity of both space

and labour to complete the re-manufacture of 20 F-150s every day.

The re-manufacturing process is extremely detailed to ensure that no quality is lost in the right-hand drives. It includes a full strip of the chassis as the F-150 begins its journey down the production line.

The trucks receive new wiper linkages and blades, a new towbar, new electrical harnesses and climate control features.

They also adapt and improve child restraints, door switches, radio system, brake pedals, carpets, and drive footrests among many other features.

One of the great features of the Mickleham facility is the jobs it has provided to the people of Melbourne’s north.

General manager RMA Automotive Holdings, Australia, Trevor Negus spoke of the importance of local workers in the production of the trucks, saying a wide range of cultures and backgrounds are employed in the hard-working environment.

“Almost all of our production staff are living in these developments around here, hence why our programs with the Whittlesea Council have been so successful,” he said.

“They’ve drilled into the local community, screened people for us, and now we’ve got people from all different sorts of underrepresented backgrounds working with us.

“Thereisalotofdiversityinbothage,gender and culture. We’ve got a pair of refugees from

Iraq that have been in five different camps across Europe, and they’ve been able to settle down here and are absolutely delighted to be working here.”

RMA Automotive’s partnership with the Whittlesea Council has allowed many highly qualified immigrants who have recently made their way into Australia to receive a two-week intensive English course before settling in as part of the workforce.

The opportunities that RMA and Ford are providing to northern residents of underrepresented backgrounds are invaluable, giving them employment opportunities and a strong sense of purpose. Customer deliveries throughout Australia are set to begin in November.

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions

Road disruptions: Closed roads and lanes

Lemonwood Drive, Greenvale

Until late NovemberAt Mickleham Road

Bulleen Road, Bulleen Until late 2023Lanes closed at times

Bridge Street, Bulleen At night, until late 2023 Lanes closed at times

Manningham and Templestowe roads, Bulleen

At night, until late 2023Lanes closed at times

travel

As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re upgrading roads to reduce congestion and improve travel times. We’re also building North East Link making travelling around Melbourne and to the airport quicker and safer.

The facility has provided many jobs to northern locals. Right: 20 F-150s are completely re-built every day. (Pictures: Supplied)

A life full of new possibilities

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.

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

‘‘ 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

Attheheartofhisnewfoundsupportsystem was Habib Alsaidie, his NDIS care worker. Habib played the roles of guide, 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 accessibility features, empowered Mahmoud to 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 and practice at AMES, explained the challenges 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 into a brighter future. As he pursues his dreams of education, work, family, and independence, Mahmoud serves as a beacon of hope for others 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. (Supplied)

Mixed picture for northern crime

By Gerald Lynch

Crime across Hume and Whittlesea increased last financial year, but police are less concerned with the figures and more concerned with combating family violence, burglary and theft related crime.

According to Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) data Hume recorded 18,257 offences in the year to 30 June, up 5.6 per cent from the year prior.

Whittlesea had an 8 per cent increase in crime with 12,921 offences recorded, compared to 11,964 the year prior.

Hume acting inspector Shayne Kerley said increase in offences could be attributed to COVID lockdowns the previous year during

which crime fell substantially, and when compared to the last pre-pandemic year of 2019 the figures are actually an improvement.

“Overall crime in the Hume area has dropped by 13 per cent since pre-pandemic. Hume police will also continue to focus on youth crime, home burglaries, car thefts, and firearm related violence,” he said.

“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.”

Family violence incidents have remained relatively steady, dropping by 4.7 per cent compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Mural a sight to see

SouthMorang’sRiversideCommunityActivity Centre is set for a mighty boost in appearance following an art installation from the students at Plenty River College.

In collaboration with the Whittlesea council Youth Services team and local artist Sophie Arrighi, each student painted a wooden puzzle piece that will be formed together to create a complete artwork.

City of Whittlesea chair administrator Lydia Wilson said Council was thrilled to be supporting this collaborative endeavour.

“This project is not just about creating a stunning public art installation; it’s about celebrating the creativity and diversity that thrives within the City of Whittlesea,“ she said.

“The mosaic artwork is a testament to the unique talents and perspectives of our youth.“ Onestudentleadingthechargeis18-year-old

aspiring support worker Jay, with a strong passion for art and assisting others he has thrived being part of this project.

For his puzzle piece, Jay painted a spotted marsh frog, inspired by tadpoles he found in Mill Park.

He has been a major asset to this project, offering invaluable advice for young artists eager to make a difference in the community.

“I’d encourage other young artists to get in touch with their local youth service. There are so many opportunities available, and youth development officers are always happy to empower and support you,” he said.

The art piece aims to capture the spirit of connection and community and will be visible at the Riverside Community Activity Centre soon.

Gerald Lynch

“The statistics also indicate Hume police are continuing to arrest offenders for breaching family violence orders – with an increase of 5.7 per cent since pre-pandemic. This highlights the proactive approach taken to monitor offenders and hold them accountable for their actions.”

Acting inspector Kerley said this is a positive sign, but there is still work to do to ensure everyone felt safe in their own homes, and that improving family violence remains a priority.

Whittlesea inspector Chris Allen echoed the sentiment surrounding the uptick of figures being nothing to be alarmed about.

“Given the twelve months to June 2022 included around three months of strict COVID

lockdowns,themostaccuratecomparatorwhen gauging overall crime trends is the most recent reporting period unaffected by any restrictions – the twelve months to June 2019,“ he said. “Overall crime in Whittlesea has dropped by almost 20 per cent since pre-pandemic, and residential break-ins have also dropped by 36 per cent since pre-pandemic.”

He said theft from motor vehicles was still a major issue.

“Locally, we are still seeing thefts from motor vehicles occur, in particular tradies’ vehicles being broken into and having valuable tools stolen. While our officers have made a number of arrests, we strongly encourage you to take your valuable items with you when you park.”

Tune into Plenty Valley FM 88.6 in an emergency

Plenty Valley FM 88.6 is the local community radio station and designated emergency broadcasterservicingMelbourne’souternorth east.

Following test broadcasts in the late 1980s, it has been broadcasting to the local area since 1990.

With the establishment of Emergency Management Victoria following Black Saturday, Plenty Valley FM has built a partnership of nearly 15 years with Emergency Management Victoria (EMV). Station representatives also attend local Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committees at the Whittlesea, Nillumbik and Banyule councils.

Key areas 88.6 Plenty Valley FM protects as partofitsroleasanemergencybroadcasterare the communities and urban growth fringes that circle the Plenty Gorge Parklands region. The Parklands area and surrounds are widely recognised as one of the most bushfire prone areas in Victoria.

Station president Craig Wright said “This year’s fire season is expected to be very challenging. Having a bushfire survival plan and educating family and friends about it, as well as understanding how to act on it is going tobeincrediblyimportantwhereveryoulivein the local area.”

“We provide the community with the information they need and, in some cases, to act upon in a timely manner. Our presenters are preparing early for the season ahead by undergoing refresher training to ensure they can identify and deliver messages calmly on air. In the event of an emergency unfolding, updatescancomeintothestationveryquickly.”

Plenty Valley FM 88.6 has general and specialist music, lifestyle programs as well as multicultural programs which allows it to connect with local CALD communities.

In the event of a declared emergency, whetherfireorothernaturaldisasteraswellas HAZCHEM incidents, Plenty Valley FM 88.6 suspendsprogrammingasdirectedbyincident controller agencies to provide key community

safety information.

Tostayupdated,peopleshouldtuneabattery powered radio to 88.6FM in case mains power and mobile coverage fails.

Plenty Valley FM relies on donations,

memberships and sponsorships (the community radio term for radio advertising) to continue its vital emergency work and to stay on air. You can visit www.pvfm.org.au to learn more.

The Plenty Valley FM broadcast van, and a map of the Plenty Valley FM Licenced Service Area. (Pictures: Supplied)

A Lifestyle Community has so much to offer. (Pictures: 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!

Navigating the aged care system with confidence

Transitioning a loved one into aged care can be a difficult time for everyone involved. At Heritage Care, we know it can be daunting so we’re here to help.

We acknowledge that the ageing journey is different for every individual, however there are often signs that sneak up on families highlighting the need to transition to professional care. By being informed about caregiving choices and staying flexible goes a long way to making better decisions about your loved one’s care.

Many families are unprepared for challenging events that commonly occur as people age and hasten the need for residential care.

Take Hazel’s story for example.

“I was living a typical life as a senior until one day I experienced a bowel obstruction. It landed me in intensive care for three days and I lost the ability to walk properly. Suddenly I needed around the clock care and support” Hazel explained.

While residential aged care did not immediately come to Hazel’s mind, with help from her children, she weighed up her options and agreed to experience a short stay at Heritage Epping. She has never looked back.

“You can still live a great life in a residential aged care home. The support here allows you to live freely without the burden of fear. Everyone is nice and you will feel welcomed and loved.”

Michelle, the loving daughter of another member of the Heritage Care family, shares these words of advice “If you’re unsure about whether it’s time to find a place for your parent in a residential aged care home, know that you’re not alone. Ask for help and arrange professional care if your gut is telling you thingsarenotright.Recognisethesituationfor whatitisandembracethenextchapterofcare.”

“Get to know the aged care system, talk with the staff, understand what residential aged care can provide. Your loved one can

greatly benefit and live a life of happiness and joy when family forms a partnership of care with providers.”

To book a free, non-obligatory meeting with a Heritage Care team member, visit heritagecare.com.au

Resident Hazel (on right) with Suzie, recently enjoying Heritage Epping’s 5th birthday party celebration.

Embrace the best of life at Melba Vale Country Club

Melba Vale Country Club is continuing to thrive and is a popular place for over 55s and retirees.

Melba Vale Country Club is part of the Country Club Living group and is located at 1390 Pascoe Vale Road, Coolaroo. The Country Club is conveniently located only 5 minutes from the Broadmeadows Shopping Centre and is close to public transport.

We welcome you to share the experience and have your own private tour and a cuppa with manager Gregory.

Villa 50 (shown below) is now priced at an enviable price point of $418,000 and with no stamp duty, representing an offering that is rare for this type of quality home. The many features of this very versatile floor plan include built in robes to bedrooms, two-way ensuite and a second separate toilet, a very functional kitchen that boasts stone bench tops, quality appliances and ample storage, spacious open plan living design and an added living space / study or guest bedroom, secure internal access direct from garage, and outdoor Alfresco area perfect for entertaining.

This home is conveniently located close to the caravan and boat storage area – making it ideal for the caravan enthusiast.

At Melba Vale Country Club, visitors and residents are delighted by the bright and happy atmosphere. You can embrace life and live your retirement just the way you want.

Come along and tour Melba Vale facilities, which boasts a magnificent community club that houses a hairdressing salon, library, pool table and club bar. Other facilities include a gym and an outdoor bowls rink.

The Country Club is staffed with on-site management and has a 24-hr emergency call system. The Country Club bus also commutes residents on shopping and social outings.

Village manager for the Country Club, Gregory Nicholls, welcomes inspections Monday–Friday 10am–4pm or by private appointment. Visit Melba Vale on-line at

melbavale.com.au or contact Gregory today for your own private tour on Free Call 1800 503 225. Register for inspections today to avoid

disappointment. Enjoy a quality lifestyle at Melba Vale Country Club Coolaroo. Live in luxury and security at the finest Melbourne retirement village.

Residents enjoying the Country Club bar and sporting facilities. (Supplied)

Making life easier with serviced apartments

Serviced apartments within a retirement village are ideally suited to older people who would like to live independently with some help to make life easier. They are typically located within the village community centre where there is always someone to talk to and a relaxed community atmosphere to enjoy.

There are many benefits of serviced apartment living at Latrobe Retirement Village in Reservoir including:

Live independently with extra support

• Benefit from visiting health professionals and allied health services

• Social activities to suit every lifestyle and ability

• This is not aged care, you live independently with a helping hand.

Chef-prepared daily meals

• Every meal is freshly prepared and full of flavour

• Enjoy the social side of eating in the dining room or if you prefer, you can have your meal delivered to your room.

Social activities

• Join in as much or as little as you like. There are morning teas, music and other entertainment, art, craft, hobby groups, bowling green, board games, movies, events, swimming, shopping, and day trips in the village bus.

Safety and security

• Emergency call buttons are in every unit.

• Nursingstaffatthevillageforpeaceofmind.

Be freed from cleaning and laundry

• Your assisted living apartment will be cleaned for you every week.

• Laundering of bed linen and towels will be

done for you.

Affordable pricing

• Centennial Living’s Latrobe Retirement Village has serviced apartments with an

entry price less than you might expect, ranging from $140,000 to $215,000.

• When you move in, you pay a monthly service fee, contact us to find out more about the costs.

For more information on Centennial Living’s Long Island Village –Fill in the contact form at www.centennialliving.com.au or call 1300 098 000.

Lindsay finds a new home and a friendly community

Mr Lindsay Kelly moved into one of Estia Health homes through the respite short term program.

His wife Joy is already a resident and he had beenmakingadailytriptoseeher.Sadly,after anastyfallhefoundhimselfinhospital.When released, it was suggested he didn’t go straight home but instead book some short-term respite care. Naturally, he chose where his wife was residing.

At 94, Mr Kelly was already in a self-care unit and unfortunately finding this difficult to manage, so he decided that he loved living at Estia Health so much that he would stay.

So, what does he have to say about his new home?

“The staff are marvelous, so caring and considerate,thefoodhereisgoodtoo,thereisa good variety, plenty of it, it’s homely and more

than we need! Plus, there is entertainment, singing if you want it, walks and games. The organisation is great and what’s nice for me is that there are quite a few chaps here and I spend a bit of time with them, which is good. I also get to spend more time with my wife. It’s just incredible,” Mr Kelly said.

So, what is his favourite part of the day?

“Well, it’s knowing that I can go out if I want too and that before I do, I am up, fed and dressed without any effort on my part. I am so well taken care of, if I would like to go for a short walk to the shops or just a general walk, I’m not exhausted before I go. My wife absolutely loves having me here too and we spend a lot of time together again, we have been married for 64 years and we don’t like being apart.”

Short term respite is a solution for many

families who are currently taking care of their loved ones, but may need a short break, have appointments, or want a holiday and are unable to care for their loved ones during this time. Taking regular breaks from your caring responsibilities can help you to maintain your own health and wellbeing and make your caring role far more sustainable in the long run, as caring for a family member can be rewarding, but also very tiring.

The time period is negotiable, generally we advise a carer take a two week break at a time. This allows you to have a well-earned rest and gives your loved one time to settle in to respite care, plus time to get to know their fellow residents and the staff. Also, time to enjoy being part of the Estia Health family and all we have to offer.

Lindsay

A special week dedicted to celebrating selfless carers

Carers across the City of Whittlesea will be celebrated at a local event in recognition of National Carers Week, an annual celebration that acknowledges the remarkable contributions of carers across Australia.

This year’s celebration, taking place from October 15 to 21, will shine a spotlight on the millions of Australians who provide support and care to loved ones facing various challenges.

MillParkresident,ErikaCiccone,isaformer full-time carer for her husband, and regularly took part in a council-run carers group.

That group shut down, inspiring Erika to start her own group, Connecting Carers

in South Morang.

Erika is looking forward to the upcoming CarersWeekeventsandwantstoremindcarers theimportanceofself-careandtoconnectwith others who understand their journey.

“City of Whittlesea’s carers group helped me so much to become who I am today. I want to be an advocate for carers,” she said.

“It’s important to meet people going through the same things you are, so you can know you’re not alone.”

Whittlesea Council chair administrator Lydia Wilson has expressed her admiration for Erika’s dedication and leadership.

“Erika’s commitment to supporting carers

Enjoy two weeks complimentary short-term respite care on us

in our community is truly commendable. Her selfless advocacy and establishment of the Connecting Carers Group play a crucial role in providing a sense of community and empowerment for carers in the City of Whittlesea,” she said.

“National Carers Week is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the tireless efforts of carers like Erika and to raise awareness about the challenges they face daily. The City of Whittlesea is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive community that values and supports its carers.”

We understand the ongoing challenges people are facing particularly for older people living alone in community.

That’s why we’re offering complimentary short-term respite care at no cost to you* During a respite stay residents enjoy; meeting new people and warm conversations over freshly cooked nutritious meals, hobbies they love and the opportunity to try a new activity or two.

Our entire team are here to give care and support, with our Registered Nurses providing 24/7 care for all personalised clinical needs.

Estia Health Dandenong’s short-term respite care offers:

Round-the-clock care: short-stay respite residents are cared for by professional nurses on duty 24/7, providing a safe and supportive environment for residents to feel at home.

Engaging activities and nutritious food: the opportunity to participate in meaningful daily activities, build connections with other residents and enjoy freshly cooked, nutritious meals prepared daily by our chef.

Protection for everyone: our homes follow strict infection prevention and control processes, have additional trained employees and follow all government advice and directions, which are monitored by our trained infection prevention control champions.

T&Cs: Only valid at Estia Health Coolaroo and South Morang. Must have a valid aged care assessment for respite care. Must have available respite days. If extending respite post two weeks, normal fees Basic Daily Care Fee applied. Offer valid from 1 October 2023 – 30 November 2023. Respite must be booked prior to 30 November 2023. Offer valid once. All pharmacy costs must be paid.

If you feel you or someone you know could benefit from a short stay in our home, call our team on 1300 682 833

Estia

can support

Erika with her husband Tony. (supplied)

Mr

Kelly. (Supplied)

Callisto Place demonstrates how to live your best life

Today’s retiree has high expectations. They want to live well, stay active and - as long as it’s within their budget - they expect to enjoy the finer things in life. With 90 luxurious apartments over six levels in buzzy Bundoora, Callisto Place fits the brief, and then some.

Location-wise, the vibe is youthful and exciting with a mouth-watering diverse array of things to do. The community is positioned right in the heart of Melbourne’s ‘university town’ adjoining La Trobe University and next to the RMIT campus. It’s a dynamic town centre with a range of diverse housing types

andayoungerdemographic.Theareaisserved by numerous dining, cafe and shopping options, with Woolworths, Dan Murphy’s and numerous retailers just a short stroll away from the residences.

Polaris 3083 is an excellent example of urban renewal and has collected two prestigious awards - the 2016 UDIA Excellence Award for Urban Renewal and the 2017 UDIA Environmental Excellence Award. Adding to its appeal, it is surrounded by diverse residential architecture including contemporary and heritage designs and

sustainable, connected living.

Callisto Place sits proudly at the centre of the redevelopment and the exterior is boldly contemporary in design. Inside the apartments, the quality is spot on, in design, layout and fittings.

The apartments feature spacious open floor plans, with designs that capture natural light and winter garden balconies to soak up the views.

Premium Fisher and Paykel appliances sparkle in sleek kitchens with stone benchtops and gleaming timber floors.

There are also plenty of shared spaces for residents to build friendships and enjoy new experiences without leaving home. There is also a show-off residents’ lounge, state-of-the-art gym, residents kitchen, bar and dining room, library and cinema, games room with billiard table.

At the end of a busy day, there’s secure basement parking, so residents can simply drive in, hop in the lift and go straight to their private sanctuary. Living their best life.

Hyson’s first The Callisto Place display apartment is open for viewing now.

Artist Impression

Six tips to help you care for someone with a disability

If you care for someone with a disability, it’s important to prioritise looking after yourself as well. Here are 6 tips to help ease some of the pressure:

1/ Are you eligible for payments?

As a carer, you may be eligible for carer payments. Explore servicesaustralia.gov. au/carer-payment for more information. Additionally, the person you care for may also be able to get a Disability Support Pension. Find out at servicesaustralia.gov.au/disabilitysupport-pension

2/ Make an emergency care plan

An emergency care plan has all the information about the person you care for in one place. It makes it easy for someone to take over from you in a hurry, or if you need to talk with a health care professional. Find out how to create one at carergateway.gov.au/ planning

3/ Learn how to deal with challenging behaviours

Some people with a disability can have challenging behaviours, such as aggression or violence. Find out how to prevent or manage these behaviours at carergateway.gov.au/ managing-health-behaviour

4/ Managing incontinence

Some people with a disability are incontinent, meaning they can’t hold in urine or faeces. Learn how to manage incontinence at carergateway.gov.au/managing-healthbehaviour, plus get additional support buying incontinence products at servicesaustralia. gov.au/continence-aids-payment-scheme

5/ Get help around the home

If your care role leaves you less time to do jobs

around the house, you might need extra help at home. There are many services that can help you, from providing meals to cleaning and making home repairs. Find out more at carergateway.gov.au/home

6/ Need some respite care?

Respite care is when someone else looks after thepersonyoucareforwhileyouhaveabreak. If you need time to do everyday activities, deal with stress or look after yourself, visit

carergateway.gov.au/what-respite

You may care for someone by yourself, but you’re not alone – it’s okay to ask for support. Simply visit carergateway.gov.au today or call 1800 422 737.

Gardening group encourages participation and growth

Mambourin is an NDIS registered disability service provider based in the western suburbs of Melbourne, offering a wide range of supports for people with disability.

Mambourin’s Sunshine Community Hub is located at the end of Stanford Street, tucked behind Parsons Reserve. They offer services – known as choices – to assist their community members get the most out of life. These include life skills choices, social and interest choices, community access as well as employment and training pathways.

The nursery and gardening program is one of the popular programs offered at the Sunshine hub. The hub’s gardening group participates in this program three days per week,andspecialiseincultivatingsucculents.

The gardening group is empowered to do everything when it comes to the nursery, including propagating from cuttings, re-potting and ensuring the succulents are healthy when ready for purchase to the wider Mambourin community. The group also oversees the general maintenance of the hub’s gardens and grounds.

“I like working on the nursery because we help each other to get the work done.”, says David about the program.

Steven, who is also part of the gardening group, says “[The program] really makes me feel valued that I contributed to the work around the hub.”

Mambourin’s Sunshine hub also offers programs and support in developing life skills, such as independent living skills, communication skills and guidance on personal health and wellbeing.

While many service options take place in a group setting, Mambourin also offers flexible individual support, taking care to match the best support worker to each individual.

“Being a part of Mambourin means I’m

able to connect people with disability to everything and anything they want to be a part of,” says Raeleen, Sunshine Community Hub manager.

“To find out how we can support you, get

in touch to arrange a tour. You’ll meet our amazing team who will show you what we’re all about.”

Mambourin’s NDIS and Intake team also offerssupporttohelppeopleunderstandwhat

fundingthey’reentitledtoandwhichservices can help them reach their goals. Contact them on 03 9731 9200 or via www.mambourin.org.

The nursery and gardening program is one of the popular programs offered at the Sunshine hub. (Supplied)

Pacific Epping to undergo major refurbishment works

The owners of Pacific Epping have announced the centre’s popular Hunter and Gatherer (H&G) precinct will undergo a significant refurbishment to create a dynamic and enticing new environment — providing greater access to quality produce and celebrating the cultural diversity of northern Melbourne’s rapidly growing community.

This project will deliver an even better version of customers’ favourite place to buy their food – from family essentials through to speciality produce from around the world for those shoppers who like to uncover new tastes and connect through food.

Pacific Epping general manager Andrew Drivas said the centre’s location within one of Melbourne’s strongest growth corridors was a key factor in the decision to upgrade the precinct and provide an even better retail experience.

“ThepopulationofEppingandsurrounding suburbs is expected to swell more than four per cent per annum between now and 2026 — more than double the Melbourne average,“ he said.

“Thisprovidestheidealconditionstoevolve the offerings at Pacific Epping. This project will provide greater access to quality produce andcelebratetheculturaldiversityofnorthern Melbourne’s rapidly growing community.

“The already very popular H&G precinct will be upgraded and remixed to see some much-loved existing H&G vendors enhance their offer, while also providing customers with access to exciting new retailers and products.

“We’re looking forward to partnering with businesses on this significant redevelopment and welcome customers to experience the new-look H&G precinct next year,” he said.

Coles and Aldi supermarkets will continue to operate throughout the redevelopment, to

ensure residents can continue to fulfil their everyday grocery needs.

“This project is an example of the ongoing evolution of retail and lifestyle offerings at Pacific Epping to better meet the needs of our

customers now and in the future,” Mr Drivas said.

“Pacific Epping is always changing, and revitalisation of the H&G precinct is one example of how we are fast-tracking new

and exciting retailers as part of our ongoing investment for the community.”

Work on this exciting development will commence in early November 2023 and is expected to take approximately 12 months.

Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio and Whittlesea Council chair Lydia Wilson at the ceremonial turning of the first sod. (Supplied)

By Gerald Lynch

South Morang’s Quarry Hills Regional Parkland is set for a large scale overhaul with three projects planned.

The first project, the Granite Hills Major Community Park, is now under construction. The park will have a focus on nature play, as well as providing connections to walking trails and will include a boardwalk winding through two waterbodies.

The playground will also boast a number of activities including a 40 metre flying fox, giant slides, a large undercover area with barbecues and tables, and will be well equipped with

public toilets and a Changing Places facility.

Council chair Lydia Wilson said the park is an important project as part of the council’s broader vision to activate the Quarry Hills Regional Parkland precinct.

That vision includes establishing an Aboriginal Gathering Place to promote reconciliation, cultural connections and improvethehealthandwellbeingofIndigenous residents.

ConstructionoftheQuarryHillsConnecting Trailsprojectwillsee5.5kilometresofwalking and cycling trails built to allow people to explore the area’s natural environment, and will start in early 2024.

New place to gather

Whittleseacouncilrecentlyawardeda contract to Victorian-based 2Construct PtyLtdtoconstructtheplacewhichwill be built in South Morang.

The local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community has long advocated for a dedicated space from which to participate in cultural practices and knowledge-sharing. The centre is set to be built at the Quarry Hills Regional Parkland and will play host to a variety of services and programs that will help to improve the health and wellbeing of Whittlesea’s growing Aboriginal population. There will also be opportunities for the broader community to learn about Aboriginal culture through storytelling and events.

“Notonlywilltheparkbeago-todestination for families wanting to spend quality time together in a safe and accessible park, but it will also be the gateway to our municipality’s defining open space feature,” Ms Wilson said.

“The park’s design has been informed by an extensive community consultation process and aligns with our goal of creating Liveable Neighbourhoods, as detailed in our Whittlesea 2040 strategy.”

Construction of the waterbodies is currently underway and will be followed by work on the park’s entrance and car park.

The playground is set to be completed in late 2024.

Whittlesea administrator Peita Duncan said the place will be located on Wurundjeri Country and connect to the site’s landscape, flora and fauna.

“We are proud to be progressing such an important project, which we know will empower our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members and provide so many benefits,” she said.

“I want to thank everyone who has been involved in getting us to this point, not least of all the Whittlesea Aboriginal Gathering Place Advisory Group and Whittlesea Reconciliation Group.”

Construction is anticipated to begin nextyearandisexpectedtoopenin2025.

CAREER ...startshere

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

Sod turned on new park

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Craigieburn Residents’ Association

The next meeting of the Craigieburn Residents’ Association will be held on Wednesday October 25 at Selwyn House Community Centre, Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn at 7.30pm. All welcome. The group’s last meeting will be on November 29. This Christmas meeting will include a light supper.

■ craigieburnresidents@gmail.com

Creative arts and fitness

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

■ 9309 8531

Craft and Conversation

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

■ humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park

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

■ https://shorturl.at/cER26

Tai chi for health

Come along to Homestead Community and Learning Centre in Roxburgh Park for a lesson in tai chi, a low impact exercise program to build strength. Everyone is welcome. It’ll be held every Monday from 10am – 11am.

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

Adult education

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

■ 9309 8531

Senior citizens meet

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

■ Beulah, 0411 422 398

Homestead Walking Group

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

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

Phone connect program

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

■ 8301 8863

Education and community centre

Do you or someone you know need help learning english or understanding technology? Craigieburn Education and Community Centre is offering free beginner english and computer classes to eligible residents. Small, relaxed and

friendly classes, drop in and say hello at 20 Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn.

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

Whittlesea Historical Society

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

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

Indigenous Community Gardens Westmeadows Indigenous Community Garden members are hosting a monthly open day on the first Saturday of each month 11am-noon, to showcase the gardens. At the corner Toora Drive and Redan Court, two entrance access. All are welcome.

■ Eva Mazzei, emmmazzei@gmail.com

Take off weight naturally

Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Off Weight Naturally) every Thursday at 9am at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ Rhonda, 0409 740 924

Crafternoon

Get crafty over a cuppa at a social group for adults. Some supplies and equipment are available or bring your own projects and craft items. Every Tuesday at 1pm-3pm during school terms, all welcome. Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury. ■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Sunbury Art Society

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

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

Arts and games night

Get creative at the Sunbury Youth Centre each Wednesday from 3.30pm to 5.30pm. The free program is for people aged 12 to 18 years old, at 51-53 Evans Street, Sunbury.

Music and Singalong

Bring your instrument or your voice to a social group for adults. Songs with lyrics and chords can be viewed on the big screen, all skill sets welcome. Wednesdays 9am-noon, at Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury.

■ www.sunburyhouse.com.au

Craft and conversation

Head down to the Sunbury Library on Mondays at noon for the craft and conversation group. The program is free and open to people aged 15 years and older.

■ https://bit.ly/39BIu2O

Hume Men’s Shed

The Hume Men’s Shed (Sunbury) is a non for profit organisation, meeting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings at 158 Evans Street Sunbury. The group caters for men be it carpentry, welding, metal work, gardening or just to chat.

■ sunburymensshed.com or 0438 677 425

Have a laugh

Moonlite Theatre is proud to present its upcoming performance of Have a laugh. Consisting of a radio play, improv and a short comedy play. Showing from 8pm Friday, October 13, 2pm & 8pm Saturday, 14 October 2023 at Holly Trinity Anglican Church Hall, 19 Gisborne Road, Bacchus Marsh.

■ 0491 179 761

Summer Fashion Parade

Gisborne Uniting Church will host a Summer Fashion Parade by Kays Classic Fashions on Monday, October 16, at 1.30 pm at the Church in Brantome Street, Gisborne. There will be great brands at low prices to suit ladies sizes 10 – 24, as well as a ‘specials’ rack. Entry is $10 which includes afternoon tea and door prizes.

■ 5428 3852

The Gisborne Singers

The Gisborne Singers are presenting Brahms Liebeslieder Waltzes, a collection of love songs in Ländler style for voices and accompanied by one piano, four hands. It will be held on Sunday, October 29, 2pm, at Church of the Resurrection, Macedon.

■ http://gisborne.harmonysite.com

Amateur Radio Club

The Macedon Ranges Amateur Radio Club meets on the third Saturday of the month at the Woodend RSL Hall, 32 Anslow Street, Woodend at 10am. If you are interested in amateur radio or already have a call sign we’d love to meet you.

■ http://www.mrarc.org.au

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Evie, 5, with sunflowers as part of a local initiative to give away free seeds. (Damjan Janevski) 362972_01

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

No. 7482 75 96 543 2

QUICK CROSSWORD

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.

ACROSS

1 Looks for (5)

4 Pathological self-admirer (9)

1 Pathological self-admirer (9)

9 Contain (7)

9 Contain (7)

1 538 27 54 3549

3 Aqualung (5)

Aqualung (5)

4 Foes (7)

5 Natural (7)

4 5 Natural (7)

6 Talents (9)

6 Talents (9)

easy 243 5 9 567 4 2 549

10 Instrument for crushing material into small pieces (7)

10 material into small pieces (7)

11 Subtle change by degrees (9)

12 US state (5)

13 Swine (3)

14 Bug poison (11)

16 Tools (11)

19 Long, slippery fish (3)

20 Cavalry sword (5)

22 Charity (9)

25 Print process (7)

26 Drank (7)

27 Dangled (9)

28 Unkempt (5)

DOWN

1 Throw (5)

2 Gives something and receives another (9)

86 2 61 7 9

7 Country (5)

8 Relating to the body (9)

7 Relating to the body (9)

13 Female religious leader (9)

14 From Israel (9)

15 Beyond words, indescribable (9)

17 Coped (7)

18 Cared for (7)

21 Dollars (coll) (5)

23 Puzzle (5)

24 Currently (5)

1 78 5 48 1

hard

medium 29 7 8657 96 3

57 3 74 42

41 15 78 9

DECODER WORDFIT 9-LETTER

acquit, ACQUITTAL, actual, alit, aqua, aquatic, attic, laic, quail, quittal, tacit, tact, tactual, tail, tala, talc, taut

No. 154

1 In which city are the headquarters of the United Nations located?

3 Who was the 23rd prime minister of Australia and longest-serving Australian Labor Party prime minister?

4 Which planet in the solar system is farthest from the sun?

5 What is the name of the founder of the Scout Movement?

6 What was the name of the assassination plot in which Guy Fawkes was famously involved?

7 With which legendary king do we associate the castle and court of Camelot?

8 Which football team did Charles Brownlow, namesake of the Brownlow Medal, play for?

9 Mark Zuckerberg (pictured) is the founder and CEO of which social networking site?

10 What is the highest peak in the Caucasus Mountains?

L C I A L W R V R T D C N D N E A G L O W C R A V E R A T E D I C I N G D E N S E A T Q U A T 8 words: Good 12 words: Very good 17 words: Excellent Today’s Aim: 3 LETTERS ACE CAB CON EAR EVE FED HEM HUB KEY NEE NON ONE ORE OUT RIP RYE SAG SEE WAN WIN WIZ YEW 4 LETTERS DIES EASY EBBS ELSE GEED MAMA PAWS SOUP STAG STIR 5 LETTERS ABOVE ACING ACTED ADAGE ALIAS ALONE ANGST APING ARENA ATOMS AVERT AWAIT AWAKE BONES BRINE CAMEL CANOE CATER DRAFT DRAPE DRESS EDGES ENSUE ENTER EVADE INANE MIGHT MINCE MONTH NEARS NEVER PALER PENCE RIDER RILED RIVAL ROSES SCANT SEAMS SECTS SEIZE SLEWS SNEER TRAYS TREES TRUES VOICE WHEAT 6 LETTERS CEASES DRAWER ERRANT SPARSE USHERS VERSES 7 LETTERS AMATEUR ARISING AUSTERE GROCERY NEUTERS SATANIC 8 LETTERS ARRAIGNS PENITENT PRESENTS WARRIORS 10 LETTERS DISMISSIVE TREASURIES 12 345678910111213 1415 1617181920212223242526 O S J W Q F C B I G V T R K H M U P X E Y L Z N A D 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 13-10-23 Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com 276489351 391567248 825314769 543271896 784192635 469758123 918635472 652843917 137926584 easy medium hard 825173469 346285791 971826543 637498215 758941632 584739126 419652378 192367854 263514987 238964517 482635179 941256783 159873462 795128346 867349251 674512938 316497825 523781694 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 ND ANSWERS: 1. New York City 2. April 3. Bob Hawke 4. Neptune 5. Lord Robert Baden-Powell 6. The Gunpowder Plot 7. King Arthur 8. Geelong (VFA) 9. Facebook 10. Mount Elbrus

No. 154

No. 154

No. 154

SkinPower!

Revitalise your skin from the inside out with Sunraysia Prune Extract

Free from chemicals and one hundred percent natural

More than 70 prunes in every jar

Naturally rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals including potassium, dietary fibre, magnesium and vitamin K

Helps keep skin hydrated and healthy

Anti-ageing - helps prolong youthful glow

Helps promote skin cell regeneration –improving skin tone and texture

Enjoy a teaspoon daily, or mix with any food, tea, yogurt or use in cooking

Trades & Services

General Notices

1987)

The application is for a permit to: Vary Restriction No. 1 (vi) of Covenant Restriction PS803931Y, to allow for the proposed dwelling to be constructed outside of the approved building envelope of Memorandum of Common Provisions AA8599

The applicant for the permit is: R Varughese

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application on the City of Whittlesea website via the following link https://www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/ building-planning-development/planning/advertising/

The application reference number is: PLN-41258

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority: City of Whittlesea, 25 Ferres Blvd, South Morang. This can be done during the office hours of 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday. This service is free of charge. Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority.

An objection must be sent to the responsible authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 24 October 2023.

If you object, the responsible authority will inform you of its decision.

For information regarding access to Planning documents relating to this application please contact Council’s Building and Planning Department on 9217 2170. 12640065-KG41-23

General Classifieds

V Adult Services V Pets & Services

AMBER 22yo.Justarrived. New in town. Excellent service. Hot and sexy. Avail.now. 0410 135 462.

ANNA 22yo. Just arrived. New in town. Excellent service. Hot and sexy. Avail.now. 0433 439 831.

V Massage Therapists

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexualservices.

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

General Notices

V Public Notices and Event

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS AND VODAFONE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G Monopole Facility, Greenbrook Shopping Centre, 53 McDonalds Road, Epping VIC 3076 Site Ref: M8002, www.rfnsa.com.au/3076007

1.The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows:

Replacement of an existing five-bay equipment cabinet with a new seven-bay eqiupment cabinet

Installation of a new concrete pit adjacent to the equipment cabinet

2.Optus and Vodafone regard the proposed installation as a low-impact facility in accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (Amendment No.1, 2021) based on the description above.

3.Notification is being undertaken in accordance with Section 7 of Industry Code C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment.

4.Members of the public may obtain further information on the proposed work, and we invite you to provide written comments about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Optus’ representative c/- Elliot Nelson, Catalyst ONE Pty Ltd; phone: 02 4022 9533; email: consultation@catalystone.com.au and post: PO Box 1119, Crows Nest NSW 1585 by 5:00pm on 25 October 2023.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR PLANNING PERMIT

(Section 52 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987)

The property affected by the application is located at: 29 Quail Avenue WHITTLESEA VIC 3757.

The application is for a permit to: Variation of Restriction A of Restrictive Covenant PS648222S, comprising alteration of the approved building envelope and driveway envelope plan under the Memorandum of Common Provisions AA6244.

The applicant for the permit is: K Barnes

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application on the City of Whittlesea website via the following link https://www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/ building-planning-development/planning/advertising/

The application reference number is: PLN-41512

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority: City of Whittlesea, 25 Ferres Blvd, South Morang. This can be done during the office hours of 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday. This service is free of charge.

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority.

An objection must be sent to the responsible authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 24 October 2023.

If you object, the responsible authority will inform you of its decision.

For information regarding access to Planning documents relating to this application please contact Council’s Building and Planning Department on 9217 2170.

Motoring

The ultimate 4x4 dual cab ute

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

Well, hello. We’d almost forgotten about the other Korean – you know, SsangYong.

After some financial woes, restructure and change of ownership, SsangYong is back in business selling cars, with two SUVs and a 4x4 dual cab ute to offer.

Originally launched here in 2004, Musso was available as both a ute and SUV, the former calledtheMussoSports,whichattractedbuyers with a bargain price and Mercedes-sourced turbo-diesel.

These days ute and SUV have parted company, but it’s the Musso 4x4 dual cab ute thatwearecheckingouthereanditsbidtograb a slice of the lucrative sports utility market.

Launched in 2018, Musso is offered in two lengths with different-sized tubs, but is not available in cab-chassis form with a metal tray replacement.

Styling Musso comes in a choice of short or long wheelbase, both with the same 2.2-litre turbo-diesel.

The short wheelbase version is 5095mm long, with a 3100mm wheelbase and 1300mm long tub – and can carry a 790kg payload.

At 5409mm, the XLV is 314mm longer, with a stretched 3210mm wheelbase and extended 1600mm tub that is able to accommodate a full tonne (1020kg). The shorter version is fitted with benign five-link coil suspension and is more of a sports focused model.

Tick the box for the long wheelbase option and it also comes with supportive leaf springs at the rear and is targeted at the working end of the market.

Both versions have independent, double-wishbone front suspension.

There are two grades from which to choose, ELX and Ultimate, with a couple of add-on packs from which to pick.

Prices start from $36,790 driveaway for the short wheelbase ELX with a six-speed manual.

ThelongwheelbaseELXis$38,290driveaway, also with a manual. An auto adds $2000.

Ultimate is priced from $43,090 driveaway, with an auto and metallic paint thrown in. Addingthelongertubtakesthepriceto$44,590 and topping it off with the Luxury Pack takes the total driveaway price to $47,590.

Metallic paint is $495, the XLV Pack $1500 and Ultimate Pack $3000.

Even at these prices it leaves plenty of overhead for further optioning the vehicleand there’s plenty of them.

Sports bars, fender flares, side steps, tub liner, roller tonneau, under-body protection and sports suspension kits are available.

There’s a choice of six colours. Atlantic Blue is standard; Grand White, Silky White Pearl, Marble Grey, Space Black or Indian Red cost extra.

Standard kit includes cloth seats and manual air, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 18-inch alloys, cruise control, LED daytime running lights, front fog lights, projector headlights with integrated LED turn signals, frontandrearparkingsensors,autohighbeam, auto lights and wipers and an auto dimming mirror.

Ultimate adds black 18-inch alloys, artificial leather, heated and cooled front seats, heated steering wheel, 360-degree camera and walk-away locking.

Our test vehicle was the short wheelbase Ultimate with $205 Luxury Pack fitted at $46,685 driveaway.

It adds Nappa leather, dual zone climate air, HID headlights, power-adjust front seats, powered driver lumbar support, heated rear seats and a power operated sunroof.

Musso is covered by a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with seven-year roadside assistance and seven-year capped price servicing.

The warranty extends to commercial use.

Infotainment

Infotainment consists of an 8.0-inch touchscreen, six-speaker audio, Bluetooth,

AM/FM radio and wired Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

It’s not the fastest, or most intuitive system that we have used – but it’s not the worst either.

At times it can be difficult to see, particularly in strong sunlight.

The front console offers two USB-A ports, a 12V/120W power outlet and a cigarette lighter.

Engines / transmissions

A 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel produces 133kW of power at 4000 rpm and 400Nm of torque from 1400-2800 rpm.

The latter figure rises to 420Nm in the longer XLV but is available over a narrower band from 1600 to 2600 rpm, presumably because it is expected to carry heavier loads.

Transmission is six-speed manual or six-speed auto, with drive to the rear wheels and selectable four-wheel drive, with 2Hi, 4Hi and 4Lo ranges. It also has an auto-locking rear diff.

Safety

As yet Musso has not been rated by ANCAP for safety and we cannot justifiably award more than five points for this feature on this basis.

But the safety story is a strong one with six airbags, a rear-view camera and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Front Vehicle Start Warning, Active Rollover Protection and Driver Attention Warning.

Ultimate adds Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Rear Cross Traffic Warning (RCTW) Lane Change Collision Warning (LCW) and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Two ISOFIX and three top tether child seat anchors are provided.

The entry level model lacks reach adjustment for the steering wheel, but in a real faux-pas the rear-centre seating position is equipped only with a lap seat belt.

It’s been a long time since we’ve seen one of these in a modern vehicle.

Driving Musso’s new body-on-frame platform is shared with the SsangYong Rexton.

The rigid body-on-frame design features high strength steel with eight large mounting points that contribute to lower levels of road

noise and a more refined ride.

Weighing up to 2090kg, it can tow a 3500kg braked load and is equipped with trailer sway control as standard.

Steering is hydraulic in ELX but Ultimate scores speed sensitive power steering, with an 11.8-metre or 12.2-metre turning circle depending on wheelbase.

And,insomethingofararityforthesegment, itcomeswithfour-wheeldiscbrakes,ventilated at the front -- most of the more fancied utes still come with rear drums.

With a 75-litre tank, fuel consumption ranges from 7.9 to 9.0L/100km, depending on grade and wheelbase.

Nexen N Priz RH7 road tyres are fitted, with 255/60 18s for Musso and 235/70 17s for XLVsilver for ELX and black for Ultimate.

A full-size spare is provided.

We’ve always felt the tub in the Musso was too short, a bit stubby even compared to other utes. The latest model addresses this issue, at leastwiththelongwheelbaseXLVwhichboasts one of the longest tubs in its class.

Having said that, we were still able to transport a heavy, power adjustable hospital-style bed in the short wheelbase, even though the end jutted over the tailgate.

Fortunately, it was only for a short distance.

Although our test vehicle was not fitted with side steps, grab handles at each of the four doors makes entry easier.

Rear legroom is limited, particularly for knees which press the back of the front seat.

Musso is push-button start and performance is surprisingly strong, both off the mark and in roll-on acceleration.

You can change gears manually with a thumb-operated switch on the side of the transmission lever.

The feel is solid but nothing fancy, with stiff suspension that generates plenty of old school shake and shudder. Large bumps are likely to produce some steering wheel backlash.

The digital instrument cluster looks a bit underdone and while you can choose from three different skins, it needs to be more configurable.

In terms of dimensions, the standard tub is 1300mm x 1570mm x 570mm, with a width of 1100mm between wheel arches. The longer tub is 1600mm, with other dimensions the same.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE

ELX manual, $36,790

ELX auto, $38,790

ELX XLV manual, $38,290

ELX XLV auto, $40,290

Ultimate auto, $43,090

Ultimate XLV auto, $44,590

Ultimate Luxury auto, $46,090

Ultimate XLV Luxury auto, $47,590 SPECIFICATIONS

SsangYong Musso Ultimate 4x4 dual cab utility, 2.2-litre turbo-diesel, 6spd automatic, part-time 4WD

Note: These prices are driveaway and include government or dealer delivery charges.

Thefirstholds1011litreswhilethelongertub has a 1262-litre capacity - an increase of almost 25 per cent.

As for off-road capability, Musso presents mainly as a farm or worksite candidate. Weekend warriors will need to invest in a lift kit and some chunkier all-terrain rubber to tackle anything tougher.

Low range gearing and a locking rear diff deliver plenty of traction, with hill descent control as well as hill start assist to help.

But a silly 23-degree approach angle, modest 215mm ground clearance and equally shy 350mm wading depth are limiting factors, the former when it comes to negotiating tricky fire trails with some rock hopping involved.

But the foundations are good and Musso certainly has potential.

We were getting an impressive 7.1L/100km after more than 500km.

Summing up

Musso is the proverbial value for money.

The styling is generic but the basics are there, it just needs fine tuning to meet market expectations.

To wit we live in a digital world and that means digital radio and a wireless charge pad need to be added.

It’s got the desired black wheels but a sports bar and soft tonneau (at minimum) are needed to complete the look that 4x4 dual cab buyer’s desire.

CarPlay and Android Auto are okay when they work, but when you’re out in the sticks and run out of reception, built-in navigation is your friend.

Theseelectronicaidsareallavailableinother markets, but have obviously been removed to keep down the price.

While resale could be an issue, Musso presents as a quality product with more than enough off-road capability for most, at a price that is frankly difficult to ignore.

Don’t forget the Nappa leather and vented front seats.

Musso – hard to pass up at the price. (Pictures: Supplied)

Dons win with Prespakis on fire

Essendon has pulled off a sensational 10-point come-from-behindwinoverGeelong,climbing back into the AFLW top eight in the process.

Left with a sour taste in their mouths after a 20-point loss to Collingwood last round, the Bombers overcame a scoreless first term to win 4.5 (29)-2.7 (19) against the Cats at Reid Oval on Sunday.

The sixth-round win provided Essendon midfield star Maddy Prespakis with family bragging rights over younger sister Georgie in their second AFLW skirmish.

Maddy also celebrated her 50th game in style with 33 disposals and six clearances as she arm-wrestled Georgie (26, 10) for dominance in the midfield.

The younger Prespakis, in her 25th game, kicked the game’s first goal but was denied by the umpires who ruled - without an AFLW score review system - the ball was touched.

The ever-prolific Chloe Scheer broke through twice to give the Cats a 14-point lead whilethehostswerescorelessbyquarter-time.

A desperate Essendon went to work in the second term, leading contested possessions 14 to four for the term and generating three of the first four inside 50s.

With a minute left on the clock and only three behinds on the scoreboard, Amber Clarke snapped the ball towards goal.

As the ball looked sure to spray across the face, it miraculously bounced backward to slot through the posts and give the Bombers a much-needed six points.

Bombers co-captain Bonnie Toogood cut the margin to one point to kickstart the second half and bring herself within three goals of 50 career majors.

With scores level at three quarter-time, Georgia Nanscawen (24 disposals, six clearances) worked diligently to put the ball

SPORTS QUIZ

1. How many points did Collingwood win the 2023 AFL Grand Final by?

2. Which team does the 2023 Dally M medal winner Kalyn Ponga play for?

3. The Qizhong Forest Sports City Arena is set to host which ATP tennis tournament?

back in the hands of the Bombers.

Daria Bannister kicked truly to put Essendon in the lead and was backed by another from Clarke to seal the win.

Bombers’ coach Natalie Wood said she was pleased with the team’s performance.

4. The Bathurst 1000 is an annual race in which series?

5. How many kilometres long is a marathon?

6. Which Australian swimmer won the 2022 World Swimmer of the Year?

7. Harry Kane recently announced his departure from which English Premier League team?

What is the training

Which team recently won the 2023 Laver Cup tennis tournament by

Who is the most decorated Australian

Which NRL awarded the 2023 Clive Churchill

Which AFL player awarded the 2023 Norm Smith Medal?

“Geelong have been going really well at the start of the season and we were a bit off our game,” she said.

“We had a lot of work to do, so I’m probably most impressed that we were able to adapt a few things in our game style and put ourselves

13. Which NRLW player was awarded the 2023 Karyn Murphy Medal?

14. Which team did Newcastle Knights defeat 24-18 to win the 2023 NRLW Grand Final?

15. Which Australian bowler took a hat-trick versus the Netherlands in a recent warm-up match?

16. Which two teams qualified to play off in the 2023 WNBA Finals?

17. Which Northern Irish golfer was particularly upset at an opposing caddie during the 2023 Ryder Cup?

18. An officail at the 19th Asian Games suffered a fractured leg after being struck during which throwing event?

19. Retired US baseball pitcher Curt Schilling won how many World Series championships?

20. Travis Kelce plays tight end for which NFL team?

21. What is the name of the annual Indigenous Rugby League carnival held in New South Wales?

in the contest.

“Maddy [Prespakis] has got a great ability to stand up each week, she shoulders a lot for us… I thought Maddy set the tone for us.”

Essendon (3-3) faces off with eight-placed Richmond next round.

22. In what year was the Los Angeles Olympics boycotted by Russia and more than a dozen other countries?

23. Which AFL team has the first pick in the 2023 National Draft?

24. Which nation did the Wallabies defeat in their final group match of the 2023 Rugby World Cup?

25. How many AFL/VFL premierships has Collingwood won?

26. And which player was Collingwood’s top goal kicker of the 2023 season?

27. Which US gymnast is to have the double pike vault skill named after her?

28. Which NBL team plays home games at RAC Arena?

29. Who is the Australian women’s cricket team currently playing a Twenty20 International series against?

30. Which city will host the NFL Super Bowl this current season?

Simone Biles

Travis Kelce

Kane

Amelia Radford (Essendon FC)

Academy in camp during AFL Grand Final week

SixCalderCannonsandtwoNorthernKnights players were amongst those participating when the Bachar Houli Senior Academy took on the Victorian Diversity All-Stars at Victoria Park on Thursday morning.

The Victorian Diversity All-Stars team features Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and players from culturally diverse backgrounds who either feature on Coates Talent League lists or have been involved in talent pathways programs.

Cannons’ players Mohammad Abdallah, Adam Sweid, El Achkar, Amin Naim and Mahmoud Taha and Knights’ Zane Souleiman were a part of the academy team while Divjot Singh from the Cannons and Milun Fernando

of the Knights played for the diversity all-stars.

The Bachar Houli Senior Academy came together in Melbourne to take part in a week-long football program during the 2023 AFL Grand Final week.

The academy is a high-performance football talent program for 15 to 18-year-olds from an Islamic background.

The academy uses football as a vehicle to promote mental and physical health and wellbeing.Theprogramalsoaimstostrengthen cultural identity by building confidence through education and developing leadership skills to inspire the next generation of leaders.

The academy team’s coaching panel are all members of the Bachar Houli coaching

pathway program, led by head coach Mohammed Kaakour who this year served as an assistant coach with Richmond’s Victorian Football League program.

Participants took part in a host of football, education and personal development sessions over the course of the week.

AFL multicultural and Bachar Houli talent programsmanagerAhmedSaadsaidbeingpart of the academy is an important step in the on and off-field development of the participants.

Saad also played 33 AFL games for St Kilda, and kicked 48 goals.

“The program helps to develop football, personalandleadershipskillstofurtherdevelop as our participants as athletes and young men,”

Saad said. “We hope our participants can also impart these skills within their football clubs and communities.”

The academy team arrived in camp last Monday as part of the week-long program. Players were put through their paces when they took part in AFL Combine modelled testing on Monday afternoon.

The squad trained at the Swinburne Centre on Tuesday and Wednesday, with Richmond coach Adem Yze on hand to welcome players during their opening session.

The Bachar Houli Senior Academy also took part in an exhibition match against the Alex Rance Academy at the MCG on Sunday morning.

Broncos lose key player

Hume Broncos has lost one of its best Big V championship players.

Star player Troyce Manassa has left the club to join Wyndham for the 2024 season.

Manassa leaves the club after spending the last two seasons at the Broncos, where he was a part of the championship men all star side and nominated for the defensive player of the year just last season.

Last season he averaged 20.77 points, 4.91 assists, 7.91 rebounds and 2.95 steals a game.

“Wyndham is aligned with my core values both as a player and a person, and I’m excited to join the club and push the Wyndham way forward,” Manassa said.

“With the preexisting relationships I have here, it makes joining a new team so much easier knowing that I’m surrounded by people that I trust”.

Manassa rejoins Wyndham coach, Lucas Allen, after working together in 2019.

Allensaidhesharedsimilarsentiments to that of Manassa.

“Troyce was the first person I met with following the end of our season, and we are incredibly excited to have him join us for the 2024 season,” he said. “The signing of Troyce and the excitement that comes with it is multi-faceted.

Bernard Kelly. (Damjan Janevski) 203919_06

New era for Kangaroos

By Harper Sercombe

It’s the dawn of a new era at the Greenvale Kangaroos ahead of the 2023-24 Victorian Premier Cricket season.

Withanarrayofnewplayersandcoachesthe club is ready to begin its rebuild as excitement levels in and around the club begin to rise.

“The club’s undergone significant change with the playing list and coaching structure so like all pre-seasons it’s been a lot of work,” Kangaroos’ director of coaching Ash Cavigan said.

“We’re pleased that we’ve been able to stabilise things and settle a new group in and we’ve been really happy with the boys all pre-season, giving great effort.

“Now it’s about switching into competition mode and seeing where we’re at.”

Amongst the list changes at the club includes, top order batsman and Sri Lankan first class cricketer Damith Perera.

“It was really, really exciting and pleasing to get that through,” Cavigan said.

“It was good to secure him, an experienced player, a class player so he’s going to be really important for what will be a really young team.”

Another massive signing for the club was acquiring Justin Galeotti as first XI captain. Galeotti is formerly from the Clarence Cricket Club in Tasmania and was a part of the Essendon Cricket Club as a first XI player in the VPL.

“He’s hit the ground running with his leadership which is what I expected, which is great,” Cavigan said.

Other players in the mix to play first XI cricket at the Kangaroos include, young top order batsman Lishan De Silva, Praveen Dilanka from Frankston Peninsula, young leg spinner Ivan Zmak, Jordan Kosteas and Kalhan Sineth from Elsternwick.

With the Kangaroos finishing the 2022-23 season in last place, there is only room to grow and the club is embarrassing this, using the upcoming season to put the foundations in place to be able to bear the fruits of their hard

work in the years to come.

“Just providing a really good environment for the boys to play their cricket, that’s pretty much been our focus,” Cavigan said.

“Get good people into the coaching group, so they can recruit young talent and just provide a great place for them to play cricket, that’s going to be year one for us really.

“We’re going to be really young, which means that’s more development more than anything else, there’s going to be lots of highs and lows with that.

“As long as they’re enjoying their cricket and they feel like the club is providing them with what they need to play their best cricket and be good young men.

“From there we’ll add talent, that’s our strategy.

“Every week’s going to be tough for us, it’s a toughcompetition,sowe’lljustdoourbestand tick off the things that we think are important for us and learn and get better.”

The Kangaroos will opened their campaign on Saturday against Prahran.

“He is experienced internationally, he is a proven winner, we have worked together and won a championship previously, and he is at a stage in his life where his maturity and experiences will be invaluable elements of his leadership within our team”.

Broncos’ coach Matt Foster has been reappointed for next season following the Broncos grand final appearance.

Troyce Manassa. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 347372_12_2

Swinley to take Eagles’ women’s team forward

Tobi Swinley has been named as the Craigieburn Eagles Big V division 1 women’s coach.

Swinley arrived at the club last season where he was lead assistant coach. Before his arrival at the Eagles he was part of a championshipwinning team with Keillor’s division 1 men’s side, but was forced to retire not long after due to injury.

Swinley then moved into coaching where he recently assistant coached two teams to a gold and a bronze medal at a national level for Victoria University.

Nowheisheadofhisownside,somethinghe said is an exciting opportunity.

“It’s definitely a huge honour,” he said. “To lead a team, and have people put trust in you for an entire season, most people probably only get under 10 seasons in their adult career, so to be able to play a role in that is a really big honour, it’s a big responsibility too.”

Last season the Eagles finished in fourth position, losing in a quarter final to Western Port by nine points. However, Swinley doesn’t yet know exactly how many players from last season are staying at the club.

“I’d like to have a little bit more security in that regard,” he said.

“But we do have Myra Wood and Ellen Cox returning which is pretty huge.

“Imports are always a bit of a challenge but we are absolutely hoping to keep Courtney [Strait], she’s a huge part of our team and our culture.

“Wedohaveabitofabudgettoacquiresome talented bits and pieces to go along with our team from last year.

“Becausewewererightthere[lastyear],every other team that was in finals we genuinely believe we could have beaten.

“It really showed that one or two extra pieces can make all the difference in the long run.”

While playing finals again is certainly the goalfortheEagles,Swinleysaidatthispointhe is thinking beyond that.

“It’s really hard to make a prediction with finals… it depends how other teams look and how other teams buy in,” he said.

“My goal is to really put some of the foundational pieces down to build a functional women’s senior program at Craigieburn.

“To have a really good system flowing from junior’s to youth to women’s, it’s been a little bit disjointed in the past, so it’s something that I’m really hoping to sink my teeth into and then genuinely develop the players I have on my team.

“Player development and personal development are really huge, and on the top of my priority list.”

Ryan departs the Bulls

By Tara Murray

Bundoora coach Michael Ryan walks away from the Northern Football League division 1 club with plenty of memories.

After four years in charge at the Bulls, Ryan is stepping away from the role.

“To have had the privilege to be the coach at Bundoora FNC the past 4 years is one of the best life memories I will ever have,” said a message from Ryan on the club’s social media.

“Spewing we couldn’t have finished off with theultimategoalbutwecameacrossaclubwho are and will continue to be a powerhouse for a longtimeandfullcredittoHeidelbergFootball Club there is no fluke that you continue to be adding silverware to that trophy cabinet.

“Amy Ryan, thank you for the unconditional support you have given me, I have loved our Saturday afternoons at the footy and seeing Parker there at the break and sneaking over to give him a hug.”

Ryan said footy clubs are a great social-support outlet for male and females and that everyone at the club saw first hand three years ago the emptiness that was experienced when that was taken away for a period of time He said then coming back you could see how important being aligned to a sporting club is for people.

Ryanpaidtributetotheplayinggroup,which has played off in the last two grand finals.

“TheplayinggroupIcouldnotaskforamore respectfulandhardworkinggroupofmenwho play hard but enjoy each other’s company away from footy and that’s why the connection is so strong on field,” he said.

“Thankyoutothesupporterswhocomeweek in and week in to watch us play and support us nomattertheresultguyslikeCliffyPennmake football clubs.

“DanielYounan,you’reoneofthebestpeople I’ll ever meet and I cannot thank you enough for being the first player to put their hand up and re sign at the end of 2019 when you had no idea what direction we were going in as a club but you backed me in and I will never forget that.

“The culture at this club is second to none and has been set up from past and previous players… but to see first hand guys like [Brent] Nipper Marshall and Luke Collins continue on this legacy gives me confidence that the best Is yet to come and I am looking forward to seeing the boys enjoy each others company each Saturday.”

President Paul King said that Ryan’s dedication and volunteerism has been inspiring.

“The Bundoora Football Netball Club

said.

Cannons’ best and fairest

Calder Cannons hosted their best and fairest awards nights last week.

In the Talent League boys side it was a two way tie for the Robert Hyde medal between Mahmoud Taha and Jayden Nguyen. Taha is an attacking midfielder who has impressed throughout the 2023 season.

He played 12 matches for the Cannons throughout the season, averaging 27 disposals, 2.7 marks, 5.3 tackles and 5.3 inside 50s. Taha was also able to hit the scoreboard, booting seven goals across the season.

Nguyen is an underage talent who is expected to go to another level next season as he hits his draft year.

This year Nguyen averaged 19.2 disposals, 2.8 marks, 1.9 tackles, 2 rebound 50s and 2.3 inside 50s, in his 13 matches.

Nguyen wasn’t able to have the same scoreboard effect as Taha, only kicking five goals for the year.

AminNaimcamethirdinthebestand fairest, booting 26 goals from 14 games.

Lachie Hall was handed the coaches’ award while the Corporal Cameron Braid award for the most courageous player went to Jordan Croft.

Croft has a father-son link to the Western Bulldogs and is likely to be taken in the first round of the draft.

Inthegirl’steamKayleyKavanaghwas awarded the Meg McArthur award for theteam’sbestandfairest.Kavanaghwas fantastic throughout the season, playing 11 games for the Cannons. Kavanagh averaged 25.3 disposals, 4 marks, 8.3 tackles, 1.4 rebound 50s and 3.2 inside 50s for the year.

Maddison Albrecht came second and Yasmin Welsford was third.

Amy Gaylor was said to be the most courageousplayer,whileAvaGeradawas handed the coaches’ award.

Kayley Kavanagh. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 338826_13_25

Harper Sercombe The Eagles are hoping Courtney Strait stays at the club. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 350267_02

committee acknowledge Michael’s countless hoursspentinrecruitment,preseasontraining, gamedayreadinessandthementoringofyoung men to be the best versions of themselves,” he

“Michael

has been the cornerstone of fostering an inclusive environment that promotes friendship, memories, and personal growth. He simply values the contribution of all people.”

Michael Ryan. (Supplied)