Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 24th October 2023 by Star Weekly

established in 1981 as the

proudly serving Melton and Moorabool

24 OctOber, 2023

Birthday

Sale! 299

Australian Chicken Drumsticks

(Minimum buy 1.25kg)

$ Australian Premium Beef Porterhouse Portions

99 kg

89¢ ea

Australian Pre-Packed Brown Onions 1kg

1kg bag

89¢ per kg

Celebrating

52 Years

Jack & Audrey Pioneers 1989

Circa 1971

On Sale Wednesday 25th October until Tuesday 31st October 2023 Melton

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331-345 High St,

Cnr Station & O’Shanassy, 9744 4290

Cnr Brantome & Robertson, 5428 3200

Cnr David Drive & Fitzgerald Rd 8390 6988

Delahey Village Shopping Centre, Taylors Rd, 9362 1207

9743 4600

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for

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n a c S RE YOUR IGA WARDS

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Melton

Sunbury

Gisborne

Glengala

Delahey Supa Valu

331-345 High St,

Cnr Station & O’Shanassy, 9744 4290

Cnr Brantome & Robertson, 5428 3200

Cnr David Drive & Fitzgerald Rd, 8390 6988

Delahey Village Shopping Centre, Taylors Rd, 9362 1207

9743 4600

Weekly Specials available Wednesday 25/10/23 until Tuesday 31/10/23. Pictures used for illustration purposes only. While stocks last. Retail quantities only. No trade supplied. All prices include GST where applicable. Some products or varieties may not be available at all stores. IGA Liquor supports the responsible service of alcohol. Tobacco and alcohol not sold to under 18’s. We reserve the right to correct printing errors. 12583988-RR43-23

2W MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

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VIC res. 18+ who are IGA Rewards members and make a purchase in their participating primary store only. Starts 18/10/23 9am AEDT. Ends 14/11/23 11:59pm AEDT. Limit 3 entries/person/day. es/person/day Max 1 entry/tran entry/transaction. Max 1 prize/person. Draws: 1pm AEDT, 21/11/23, 5691 Thomas Holt Drive, Macquarie Park NSW 2113. See https://igarewards.com.au/morgans-birthday-terms for Terms and Conditions. Entries not valid if only purchasing tobacco, gift cards or electronic recharge.

Established in 1981 as the

proudly serving Melton and Moorabool

24 OCTOBER, 2023

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Gallop into spring racing The Bacchus Marsh Cup Day Festival is back after a long wait for an action-packed family day. Emma Dwyer from Webb’s Event group said for many years there’s been requests for Cup Day’s return and finally the team can deliver it. “It’s a whole new team working very hard behind the scenes to deliver the event,” she said. “We have tried to follow many of the stories from the previous cup days and this has inspired many of the activities that will be available on the day.” There’ll be live music including from local legends Recall the 80s, carnival rides, a beer garden, a kids’ chill zone, a family market, free lazer tag for all, giant kids’ games, free pony rides and face painting, a food park, the naming of the Bacchus Marsh Cup fashionista and we can’t forget the real reason for the day, the carnival races displayed on our big screens. The fun kicks off at noon, November 7 in Maddingley park. Tickets are available online. Details: https://www.intix.com.au/ event/bacchus-marsh-cup-day-in-thepark

Nicole Dwyer, Lily-May (5), Victoria (10), Alex Bowerman and Sienna (15) plan to enjoy the local racing festivities. (Damjan Janevski) 365839_02

Spend, not save urges Cr By Liam McNally A Melton councillor has accused past and present councils of focusing on “not spending rather than delivering” in the wake of annual financial and performance statements being adopted at the last meeting. The performance statements show a buget suplus of $798.5 million, however, the vast majority of this comes from developer contributions and a revaluation of council’s existing assets. Council recorded $384.2 million in developer contributions in the 2023-24

budget and $375.9 million from revaluation, leaving an “adjusted operating surplus” of $23.1 million. Deputy mayor Julie Shannon said she was pleased to note the adjusted surplus will be used to fund the carryover of capital works from the 2022-23 budget and said that the community “misunderstands” the way developer contributions work. “These are funds that can only be used for future capital infrastructure projects within respective development areas,” she said. “In many instances these funds fall short of the full cost delivery of the infrastructure needed, which is why this council continues

to focus on prudent financial management and continues to explore opportunities to generate additional revenue.” Council has also noted that $300 million of the developer contributions are non-monetary, meaning assets have been built by developers and transferred to council ownership. However, councillor Ashleigh Vandednberg said she believes the current council and its predecessors have focused on not spending rather than delivering. Cr Vandenberg said her opinion was evidenced by examples including drainage issues potentially delaying the delivery of a

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school in Rockbank and what she called a failure in a council tender inclusion on the Bridge Road extension leading to negative impacts on a new school as well as potentially impacting the construction of the Melton Hospital. “These planning, funding and construction issues have plagued our community long before my election as further evidenced by the Silverdale Estate Sound Wall council error that residents have had to live with for 22 years with no outcome,” she said. ■ Continued: page 3.

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not Maltese president visits Spend, save urges Cr By Liam McNally

Caroline Springs George Cross Football Club was honoured to welcome a visit from an esteemed guest on Sunday, October 15 - The president of Malta, His Excellency Dr George Vella. The president is currently on a tour of Australia, meeting with Maltese communities in Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra, and Sydney. George Cross FC has strong roots with the island nation, being founded in 1947 by Maltese immigrants and to this day 80 per cent of their members are first, second or third generation Maltese. The president visited the club as the last stop of his Victorian tour, The club hosted a luncheon for the president and his delegation that included, Minister Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, High Commissioner of Malta to Australia Mario Farrugia Borg, secretary to the presidency Rosette Spiteri Cachia and Gioconda Schembri from the Maltese Consulate of Victoria. The day included an exchange of gifts between the president and the club, speeches, an exhibition match and a meet-and-greet. President Dr Vella received a warm welcome from a large number of Maltese attendees, and he said the meeting was an emotional experience, seeing different generations of the Maltese community coming together. “This club is a strong testament to how the Maltese identity, in this case, the sporting identity, has been steadily renewed over the years,” he said. “Such clubs have served and continue to serve as places where Maltese people meet and support each other.” George Cross FC general manager Liza

■ From page 1

“Many residents, myself included, are of the opinion and will most likely agree that roads and infrastructure aren’t adequately constructed. Taylors Road is another prime example with frequent accidents and planned works delayed which clearly aren’t for budgetary restraints. “While we can focus on driver error we need to be mindful that people are being hurt and some have died. We need to make sure roads have the best conditions possible to negate driver error.” Council has indicated that it is currently working with Melbourne Water to have temporary drainage decommissioned to enable further drainage works that will facilitate the construction of the school in Rockbank, but the ultimate solution is a developer responsibility, and that the $10.34 million Bridge Road extension is on track to be delivered by 2024, in time to support the delivery of the new Melton Hospital. Melton mayor Lara Carli said council has a “proud track record of investing in what is now Australia’s fastest growing community”. “This financial year we have an ambitious program to invest more than $100 million to upgrade roads, parks and community facilities to make sure Melton stays a great place to live, work and play for everyone,” she said.

The president of Malta, His Excellency Dr George Vella with young George Cross FC players. (Mark Avellino Photography)

Djuric said the day was one that will go down in the clubs history books. “We felt is was such a great honour to be given the opportunity to host the President of Malta and to showcase our Maltese culture in Australia,” she said. “It was inspiring to see that the Maltese in Malta really encourage us Maltese Australians to keep our culture and our language strong here. The visit really enlightens the Maltese

culture within our football community. “The amount of our members who came on the day to meet, perform, and support HE Dr George Vella was overwhelmingly a proud moment for our club.“ ThepPresident was in Australia from October 11 to 23, and his tour included meetings with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton.

Do you have questions about the proposed Western Renewables Link? AusNet is holding community information sessions and webinars to answer questions and explain recent project developments. We thank landholders and communities for their input on the project and we will continue to listen and keep them informed.

Scan the QR code for details of upcoming Western Renewables Link information sessions and webinars.

Landholder feedback

Compensation

Bushfire

As a result of feedback, we’ve made 95 changes to the proposed route so far and have designed the proposed 500kV transmission line with a higher minimum ground clearance of 15m. This will allow vehicles and equipment up to 5m in height to travel and operate under the lines. In addition, vehicles and equipment with a height of between 5m to 8.6m may be permitted to travel and operate under the Western Renewables Link lines subject to an AusNet safety assessment.

We’ve started sharing compensation offers with landholders on the proposed route. Compensation will vary for each landholder and is assessed by an independent and experienced valuer. The valuer considers the impact of the easement and infrastructure on the property, and any difference in market value. We will cover reasonable professional fees to support landholders during this process including valuation advice.

We recognise bushfire is an ongoing community concern. We are designing the Western Renewables Link to withstand bushfire and other hazardous conditions. We’re also working with the relevant authorities to ensure firefighting can occur safely around the transmission line.

Landholders with existing transmission lines with queries about safe operating heights should contact LMG@ausnetservices.com.au or PTW@ausnetservices.com.au .

desktop westernrenewableslink.com.au phone 1300 360 795 � info@westernrenewableslink.com.au � PO Box 638, Ballarat VIC 3353

The proposed 500kV Western Renewables Link transmission line is needed to carry renewable energy from western Victoria to homes and businesses across the state. The project is expected to unlock an estimated $9 billion of renewable energy projects in western Victoria and create 6,500 jobs over the next 15 years.

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Boost for Melton mental health A new Mental health and Wellbeing Local is on track to be delivered for Melton, with providers selected to deliver the services being announced on October 17. Mind Australia in partnership with IPC Health, MidWest Area Mental Health Service, Thorne Harbour Health Ltd and Western Health will deliver walk-in mental health care and support. Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals support Victorians aged 26 years and over to get mental health and wellbeing treatment, care and support closer to home. All support is free, voluntary and easy to access, and you do not need a referral from your doctor to access help.

Mind provides psychosocial support to help people manage daily activities, rebuild and maintain connections, engage with education and employment, and participate fully in the community. Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals adopt a ‘how can we help’ and ‘no wrong door’ approach, to enable more people to access the support they need, including those who have previously been unable to find the right care and/or experienced barriers to accessing services. Support is delivered in-person, telehealth, and via outreach services and a care plan is then designed to match patient goals and preferences – family, carers and supporters can

also be involved pending patient permission. A flagship reform following the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, the Labor Government will deliver 50 Local Services across Victoria by the end of 2026. Mind chief executive Gill Callister commended the government for acting on the recommendations made in the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System and providing the community with access to fast, free and flexible mental health and wellbeing support. “Mind is proud to be chosen to lead delivery of these four new services in Greater Dandenong, Melton, and the Greater

Bendigo-Loddon-Campaspe region. We will be working with a fantastic range of support organisations so that people in need of mental health and wellbeing support can get the right mix of services to meet their needs,” he said. Melton MP Steve McGhie said a community-based mental health service in Melton is going to be a welcome addition. “It’s great to know that mental health care for people in Melton will soon be available in our own backyard. Community-focused mental health care means residents can access life-changing services right here, right now,” he said. The services are planned to commence with providing telehealth support, with centre-based services to follow.

Recognise our local landcarers

Indian Senior Citizen Association members. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 367450_05

Lighting up for Diwali celebrations Fraser Rise Community Centre will be illuminated with lights and diyas on November 3 for a Diwali Celebration hosted by the Indian Senior Citizen Association from 6pm to 10pm. Association president Anil Puri said Diwali is one of the biggest festivals celebrated by Indian across the world. Diwali symbolises the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. It marks the day Lord Rama, his wife Sita Devi and brother Lakshmana returned to their homeland

Ayodhya after 14 years in exile. The free event will be hosted by an emcee and include captivating singing and dance performances, games and quizzes, festive food and sweets that showcase the spice-forward flavours of India will be available for purchase and a DJ specialising in Bollywood Entertainment playing music all night. Mr Puri said he is excited to bring the community together to celebrate something that is very close to his heart. “I want children of our community to feel connected to their Indian heritage and hope

that efforts like these each year makes Diwali feel special for them,” he said. “It is heartwarming to see the long-held traditions of Diwali celebrations being passed on to our new generations hoping for these traditions to be carried forward. Watching little kids wearing colourful clothes dancing and celebrating with their families and friends is a real treat for me. “The event is also open to the public and people from all backgrounds and religions are welcome to join and celebrate with us.”

The 2023 Landcare Awards, which aim to recognise the outstanding contributions made by individuals, groups and organisations involved in landcare, are now open for nominations. For more than 30 years the distinguished Landcare Awards program has honoured the unwavering dedication and efforts made by individuals and groups from rural and urban communities. Landcare is a grassroots movement with over 6000 groups, including more than 10 in the Melton and Moorabool area, that deliver a range of positive environmental and community outcomes. Landcare Australia chief executive Dr Shane Norrish said landcare represents the strength of people from all walks of life working together for a common purpose — to protect and manage our vital agricultural lands and natural environment. “The 2023 State and Territory Landcare Awards shine a light on Landcare’s greatest asset – the diverse range of people involved in landcare activities responding to local issues,” he said. “Whether it’s their dedication to preserving the natural landscape, their commitment to their communities, or their leadership in the agricultural sector, these accomplishments remind us that the spirit of hands-on environmental stewardship that underpins the landcare movement is stronger than ever before.” Categories include Australian Government Climate Innovation Award, Australian Government Sustainable Agriculture Landcare Award, Australian Government Individual Landcarer Award, Australian Government Community Partnerships Landcare Award, Coastcare Award and more. Nominations can be made online. Details: landcareaustralia.org.au/ landcare-awards-2023

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Keeping kids on the right TraCS Since 2019 the Alannah & Madeline Foundation has been assisting early years educators in Melton and Brimbank guide children through trauma, and it’s looking to expand its reach in the region. On 28 April 1996, Alannah and Madeline Mikac, aged six and three, were tragically killed alongside their mother and 32 others at Port Arthur in Tasmania. One year later, the Alannah & Madeline Foundation was launched in the girls’ honour by their father Walter Mikac AM and a small group of volunteers, driven by the belief that all children and young people should be able to live a happy and safe life, free from violence and trauma. Alanna & Madeline Foundation head of Trauma Consultancy Service (TraCS)

Kathy Warwick said that about 7 years ago, the organisation received a number of enquiries about its Children Ahead service from early years educators in Melton and Brimbank. “They were dealing with really complex issues related to children experiencing trauma within the community,” she said. “Managing complex trauma is something that is out of their area of expertise but it’s something they’re asked to manage all the time.” In 2019 the state government’s School Readiness Funding allowed the foundation to create a new arm of its work, the Trauma Consultancy Service (TraCS), with Melton and Brimbank being among the first areas of operation.

The program works with educators to build their capacity to understand how trauma presents in a kindergarten or daycare service through delivers trauma training and in-session coaching support. Ms Warwick said the foundation partnered with Monash University to evaluate the program, which found that 50 per cent of educators were considering leaving the workforce and 40 per cent reported exposure to children’s trauma impacted their lives outside work. However, the study found that after undertaking a TraCS program, education centres reported improvement in three key areas - strengthening attitudes of educators, increasing knowledge and strengthening practice.

“It can be really powerful… I’ve watched educators who have changed language, sense of confidence and ability to understand what they’re seeing,” she said. “Educators who are able to recognise a child’s really challenging behaviour and build confidence to engage with that child and the family differently can open up conversations about what’s needed.” The program currently services about 35 centres across Melton-Brimbank, but Ms Warick said the organisation still wants to reach further into the community. “The more we can have educators and services know we exist, the more we’re able to build stronger communities. We strengthen the whole region,” she said.

Grace’s well of support “During his time there he needed a drink of water but the water supply had run out and he had to drink groundwater which was polluted and he spent weeks in hospital as a result. “When he returned to Australia he told us about his experience and we realised how fortunate we are compared to people who don’t have the luxury of running water.” Ms Waddell said a well costs around $12,000 to build and the groups are attempting to raise this money for the people of Yirol to improve their quality of life. Registration is required by October 29 and can be made by calling the church. Other donations can also be made through the church website. Details: 0397460488 or www.muc.org.au

Grace Community is teaming up with Melton’s South Sudanese residents to raise money for a well for the South Sudanese village of Yirol. Women’s Wellness Day will take place on November 4 at Grace Community on Yuille Street in Melton from 2pm to 4pm. For $25 or $15 concession women and teenage girls are invited to attend a day that will include scarf tying, hair braiding and wellness workshops and a high tea. Guests will be provided an African scarf and are invited to wear a hat to recognise the Melbourne Cup. Grace Community leader Sue Waddell said the idea for the day came after a recent trip local Sudanese Community leader James Aboj took to Yirol. “The women and children had to walk around four to five hours each day to obtain water for their daily needs,” she said.

James Aboj, Sue Waddell and Anna Kothea. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 367721_10

Taking strides for stroke Suffering a stroke at age 37 in June 2022 changed Taylors Hill resident Chris Short’s life forever. “It has been without a doubt the hardest challenge of my life,” he said. “For a long time I thought my life was over and I’d never regain the functions I lost. With hard work, discipline, a never give up mindset and my family behind me I’m on a healing journey of a life time and I will never quit.” During November, Mr Short is participating in Stroke Foundation’s major annual fundraiser, Stride4Stroke. The month-long campaign encourages people to get moving to reduce their stroke risk, all while raising much needed funds to support survivors of stroke and their families, and to improve stroke treatment and care. Mr Short said he’s doing this challenge for two reasons. “One, to help the Stroke Foundation in

Community information sessions We are holding community information sessions in your area to answer your questions and explain recent project developments. All community members are welcome to drop in and no registration is required. Bacchus Marsh Bacchus Marsh Public Hall 207 Main Street

1pm –7pm Wednesday, 25 October

Melton Melton Football Netball Club MacPherson Park 783-857 Coburns Road

1pm–7pm Tuesday, 31 October

Scan the QR code for further sessions and information desktop westernrenewableslink.com.au phone 1300 360 795 � info@westernrenewableslink.com.au � PO Box 638, Ballarat VIC 3353 12640334-SN43-23

6 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

Chris Short. (Jacob Pattison) 367387_03

any way I can to help those in the future who have to endure what I have. I’m also doing it to challenge and better myself as one of my biggest hurdles has been overcoming debilitating fatigue,” he said. “My ultimate goal is to recover 100 per cent and I won’t stop until I do.” Stroke Foundation chief executive Officer Dr Lisa Murphy said there’s still time for anyone interested to sign up for the fundraiser or sponsor a participant. “We all have different lifestyles, passions and abilities, how you get active will look different for everyone, that’s the benefit of Stride4Stroke, there are no limits to what you can do,” she said. “Every dollar raised helps us get one step closer to preventing more strokes, saving lives and enhancing recovery for more Australians.” Details: https://www.stride4stroke.org.au/ fundraisers/chrisshort/stride4stroke

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Ausnet ‘protest environment’ Ausnet is still planning to hold in-person community information sessions regarding the Western Renewables Link (WRL) in Melton and Bacchus Marsh in the wake of moving the Newlyn session online due to a “protest environment”. The WRL is a controversial proposed 190km overhead high-voltage electricity transmission line that will carry renewable energy from western Victoria to Sydenham in Melbourne’s north-west, and requires the acquisition of an easement corridor 100 metres wide along the

path of the proposed transmission line. that runs through Melton and Moorabool. Ausnet announced on Wednesday, October 18 that a community information session planned in Newell for Thursday would be moved online. WRL general manager Malcolm Tinker said Ausnet is disappointed for those who planned to come to the community forum. “We respect people’s rights to protest, but we can’t conduct an information session in a protest environment,” he said.

“It is not helpful for those who are there to get more information, and it’s not appropriate for our staff members. We take our duty of care to community and our staff extremely seriously. We will reschedule the event to online and registered one-to-one sessions to ensure we can still answer important questions, especially on key topics such as farming under transmission lines, compensation and bushfire risk.” At this stage, community forums are still planned for Bacchus Marsh on October 25

and Melton on October 31. Moorabool and Central Highlands Power Alliance (MCHPA) chair Emma Muir said she’s disappointed there’s “no meaningful engagement for those in the community”. “I highly dispute that we are violent or intimidating people, we are good community people who want to be told the truth,” she said. “If people would like to attend, it’s an opportunity to hopefully get answers from your questions, however previous engagement has proven Ausnet to distort the truth.”

Water wonderful poster ‘United by Water’ theme, serving as role models for responsible water use,” she said. “Our annual poster competition provides a great opportunity for children to showcase their artistic ability and creativity while highlighting the importance of water as a precious resource. I congratulate everyone involved.” Water saving tips, connected communities, the importance of water and the need to protect it were just some of the ideas students showcased in their poster designs this year. First prize winners in each category went on to battle it out at the state level of the competition, with three local students winning either a first, second or third place prize. GWW awarded the School Prize Award to St Joseph’s Primary School in Werribee. Sponsored by Southern Rural Water, the school will receive $500 to be put towards a sustainable project. Kiesha (Jacob Pattison) 367407_01

Free Kinder: Enrol for 2024 Free Kinder is available for three and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services. Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,500 each year, per child. At kindergarten, your child will: •

learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance

•

learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment

•

build skills and confidence before primary school.

Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2024. Visit: vic.gov.au/kinder

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A Melton South Primary School student has won an award for her artistic and creative achievements, with Greater Western Water (GWW) announcing the prize winners of this year’s hotly contested poster competition. The winners were announced on October 16 as a part of National Water Week. GWW invited kinder and primary school students to design a poster that reflected this year’s poster competition theme, ‘United by Water’ and highlighted the important role water plays in bringing individuals and communities together. Melton South’s Kiesha won third prize for her vibrant design in the grade 5-6 division. GWW Strategy and Partnerships general manager Kessia Thomson said the popular competition attracted more than 800 poster submissions across 35 schools and centres in the local service area. “We are pleased to announce this year’s winners who have demonstrated outstanding creativity and a deep understanding of the

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Fatal collision in Ballan Police are investigating a fatal collision in Ballan on Saturday evening. It is understood a car and pedestrian collided on Old Melbourne Road about 8.45pm. The male pedestrian, who is yet to be formally identified, died at the scene. The male driver of the car stopped at the scene.

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Brazilian international soccer stars are set to pass on their skills at the seventh annual Woodlea Soccer Clinic.

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Brazilian international soccer stars are set to kick up a storm at the seventh annual Woodlea Soccer Clinic. Hosted by the Tour of Hope, the clinic gives kids aged five to 15 the unique opportunity to be trained by former World Cup-level soccer stars. The clinic will kick off on Saturday, October 28, at the Woodlea community, and will feature a delicious South American barbecue, paying homage to the Brazilian Soccer stars who will be coaching on the day. Brazilian international soccer star Mineiro has been named as one of the coaches at the clinic who will be helping kids to build speed, strength, and stamina, teaching not just skills, but discipline, teamwork and mental ability. Other soccer players attending will include Paulo Sergio, Xandao, Gabirel Davies, Lamartine da Silva, Fabio da Silva Neto and Luiz Felipe. Woodlea Soccer Clinic will be officiated by

Melton mayor Lara Carli, Football Victoria president Antonella Care, Woodlea executive director Peng Hong Wong, and Tour of Hope principal organiser Beram Kumar. Woodlea project director Matthew Dean said he is looking forward to the return of the soccer clinic and knows the community is excited about it too. “In light of the Matilda’s recent performance at the FIFA World Cup, we are expecting a very enthusiastic group of prospective soccer stars at this year’s clinic,” he said. “At Woodlea, our annual soccer clinic is a community favourite. It brings our passionate, diverse community together for a day of fitness and it’s always a lot of fun. “It’s not every day that aspiring players get to share the pitch with soccer stars, including the legendary Mineiro, and we know this experience will inspire and empower our young players.”

Stores in Bacchus Marsh, Kurunjang, Melton West and Melton South were among 34 police attended as part of an investigation into organised crime syndicates linked to illicit tobacco. During the searches, investigators uncovered intelligence that suggested a property in Beveridge may be a storage facility for illicit tobacco. A warrant was subsequently executed at the MacGregor Road address, where police located over 700kg of loose-leaf tobacco. In total, police seized 53,147 e-cigarettes with a street value of over $1.5 million, 712,385 cigarettes with duty excise evaded totalling over $884,000, over one tonne of loose-leaf tobacco, with duty excise evaded approximately $1.7 million, 2 kg of cannabis, over $26,000 in cash, a small quantity of cocaine;, two ASP batons and industrial tobacco manufacturing equipment. Six people were arrested over the two-day period. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 9

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

24 October 2023

Mayor’s message Cr Lara Carli

STAY INFORMED

It’s been an honour and privilege to serve as Mayor of Australia’s fastest growing municipality for the past 12 months. It’s been rewarding and challenging, but it has filled me with pride watching our safe, thriving and accessible community grow. Council has left no stone unturned when it has come to advocating to all levels of government to ensure our City becomes an even better place to live, raise a family and work. Over the past 12 months, we have delivered a significant capital works program including community centres, new and upgraded playground and road upgrades. One of those projects was the Thornhill Park Children’s and Community Centre, which was officially opened last week and has improved access to early childhood and health services for this community. Other highlights include a new sports pavilion and major upgrades at Taylors Hill Recreation Reserve and continued work on the Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve. A commemorative space, co‑designed with the Wurundjeri Woi‑wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and the Melton Historical Society was established in the Melton Cemetery to acknowledge the unmarked graves of Aboriginal Ancestors and early settlers. These initiatives complement more than 100 community services Council offers to residents and our hugely successful major events. Thank you to everyone who supported me as Mayor. I look forward to continuing to represent my community and advocate for your needs as a Watts Ward Councillor. Feel free to contact me about Watts Ward or Council-related issues on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au or visit my Facebook page at: facebook.com/Cr.LaraCarli

Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

The Djerriwarrh Festival is back Iconic Australian band, Regurgitator, will headline this year’s Djerriwarrh Festival, supported by music legends, Pseudo Echo. When: Saturday 11 November 2023.

Adding to the high‑profile live music line‑up will be exciting free activities and performances in the kids’ zone, a big street parade to kick things off, market stalls bursting with wares from local artists and designers, a food truck alley serving delicious treats, a pet expo, and captivating performances at the intercultural stage.

Climb inside a police car, learn CPR and jump on a fire truck at the emergency services display. And if you’re keen to get a little more active over summer, the Get Active Expo will provide plenty of inspiration. The jam‑packed day of activities and entertainment will be topped off with fireworks.

Free green waste disposal

Cambridge Ward with Cr Goran Kesic

Summer is just around the corner and that means getting ready for the fire season. To help with that, City of Melton residents can drop off green and garden waste for free at the Melton Recycling Facility, from 1 November until 31 December. Available to both property owners and renters in the City of Melton, this Council initiative encourages people to prepare for the upcoming fire season. The Melton Recycling Facility is open seven days a week between 8am to 4.30pm. Free disposal will be available until December 31 (except for Christmas Day).

Details and conditions at melton.vic.gov.au/gardenwaste

I’m pleased to provide residents with an update regarding some of the exciting road infrastructure projects planned for Cambridge Ward. As outlined in Council’s 2023/24 Budget, planning and design works have commenced on major roads upgrades in Caroline Springs and Taylors Hill, not least of which is Caroline Springs Boulevard. With around 27,500 vehicles travelling along the boulevard between Taylors Road and The Crossing each day, and around 34,000 travelling between The Crossing and Rockbank Middle Road, it’s important to ensure everyone can drive, cycle, and walk safely through our beautiful City. To this effect, one of the key projects we have in the works is upgrading the roundabout on the corner of Caroline Springs Boulevard and Rockbank Middle Road to a signalised intersection. This $3.7 million project is expected

Where: High Street, Melton. Between Smith Street & Hannah Watts Park. Time: 11.30am–9pm

More details: djerriwarrhfest.com.au

to commence before the end of the year. The roundabout at The Crossing will also be upgraded to a signalised intersection, and this $634,509 project is currently in the tender stage. To round off major works along the boulevard, a $1 million project to upgrade and duplicate the intersection at Taylors Road is also in the design phase. Last, but certainly not least, a $361,000 project to upgrade the roundabout at Taylors Road and Westwood Drive in Taylors Hill to a signalised intersection is currently in the design phase. Residents can keep up to date with all these projects by visiting budget.melton.vic.gov.au or by following Council’s Facebook page @cityofmelton. Please feel free to contact me on 0437 241 436 or goran.kesic@ melton.vic.gov.au regarding any Council issues.

Your Councillors – Visit melton.vic.gov.au/councillors to find your ward Councillors and their contact details

Mayor Cr Lara Carli

Deputy Mayor Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Justine Farrugia

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Kathy Majdlik

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all 12587356-AV43-23

10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

Advertising feature

Furlong 2023 gets underway over Melboune Cup Operation Furlong 2023 is a state-wide Road Policing Operation over the Melbourne Cup long weekend period. It aims to increase driver awareness and journey planning, while reducing road trauma during this high risk time on our roads. This 5 day Road Policing Enforcement Campaign will run from Friday 3 November to Tuesday 7 November. Road Policing Advisor Sergeant Marty Wallace from Westgate Highway Patrol said the operation will be conducted throughout all operational Police Regions and Police Service Areas during the five days, using all available personnel from local road policing units, general duties and other regional resources. The police operation will be targeting the main causes of lives lost and serious injuries in crashes which are impaired driving, speed, fatigue, distraction offences and seatbelt compliance Police will be out in force both to educate drivers and to enforce road rules, with a view to preventing lives lost and serious injuries. We’re watching your speed. Are you? Motorists are requested to stay within the speed limit, don’t drink alcohol or take drugs and drive, leave your mobile phone out of reach, wear your seatbelt and make sure you are well rested. Fatigue is one of the biggest killers and is a major cause of the loss of life on Victorian roads. Drivers are requested to plan their trip, be patient and ensure that you take at least a 15 minutes break at least every two hours and don’t drive if you are tired. Drivers planning to travel during this period can expect to see an increase in vehicles travelling on our major freeways and highways throughout the state. Road trauma isn’t just about the lives that

Acting Sergeant Samuel Dunn and Acting Senior Sergeant Kristy Briffa. (Damjan Janevski) 365954_01

are lost – it’s about the enormous impact on the community, from the family members, to the emergency services workers who have to deal with these tragedies on a daily basis, to the police who have to deliver the devastating news to loved ones. All of the community has a responsibility and a role to play in reducing road trauma. RoadSafe Westgate Community Road Safety Council Chairman Mr Jim Giddings said it has been demonstrated time after time that speed is a contributing factor in most road crashes. Therefore stay within the speed limit and drive to suit the conditions you face. Speeding affects both the risk of a crash

happening and the severity of injuries sustained when a crash does happen. Mr Giddings said to make sure you’re not putting yourself or others at risk on the roads, put your phone away where you can’t be tempted to use it, for example in the glove box or in the boot to avoid being distracted. He also said the work of his group along with initiatives like the Operation Furlong during the 2023 Melbourne Cup long weekend would hopefully reduce the number of serious road crashes on our roads. He asked the community to report speeding drivers to Crime stoppers number 1800 333 000. Holiday driving has its challenges and

drivers should drive in the hours they are normally awake, take regular breaks to reduce fatigue and allow extra space between vehicles. Drivers need to adapt to the conditions of the road. The onus is always on the driver to suit the conditions they are facing, and that includes the quality of the road. If you plan to have a drink then plan not to drive, taking a big risk like drink and driving is just not worth endangering your live or the lives of other road users. Before embarking on any driving trips drivers should check their tyres, windscreen washers, brakes and lights. Remember, travel so that you arrive at your destination safely and enjoy your Melbourne Cup Holiday weekend.

DRIVING IS NOT A GAME! SPEED KILLS! Don’t make a Grave Mistake Speed is the largest single factor in fatal road crashes on our roads. RoadSafe Westgate and your local council support reporting speeding drivers to Crime Stoppers.

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Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

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Free green waste drop

Matthew Lucas and Stephen Ryan filming at the Melton Botanic Garden. (Provided)

Horti-Culturalists here By Liam McNally Followers of the Horti-Culturalists may have noticed a local gem appear in one of the team’s latest episodes, with the team taking viewers on a tour of the Melton Botanic Garden’s Eremophila collection. The Horti-Culturalists is a YouTube series run by horticulturist, Dicksonia Rare Plant Nursery owner and former ABC Gardening Australia presenter Stephen Ryan along with amateur enthusiast Matthew Lucas. For about two years the duo’s channel has been dedicated to documenting rare and unusual plants, trees and shrubs in an outdoor setting, as well as teaching about various gardening techniques. Mr Ryan said the team is very happy with

how the channel is developing. “We’re having a great time, part of the reason I leapt at the opportunity is because I know a lot of elderly horticulturists who passed away and took their knowledge with them this is something to store that knowledge in perpetuity,” he said. The episode filmed in the Melton Botanic Garden focuses on a lesser known group of Australian plants, the Eremophilas. Eremophilas are dry climate flowering shrubs that show huge diversity of flower, foliage and form - from dense mat forming ground covers to very large shrubs, large silver foliage and tiny bronze leaves as well as flowers in an extraordinary array of colours. The episode looks at 12 species of Eremophilas within the garden, and includes

a guest appearance from Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden (FMBG) members Barb and David Pye for tips on propagation. Mr Ryan said what the FMBG volunteers ahve created in such a short period at the Melton Botanic Garden is an amazing accomplishment. “In only a couple of decades to make something so comprehensive - [FMBG president] John Bentley has an amazing group of like minded enthusiasts around him who’ve pushed this forward,” he said. “Melton should be congratulated on having such an important botanic garden.” At the next FMBG meeting Mr Ryan is giving a talk on Californian, Central and South American Plants on November 8 at 7.30pm.

Moorabool Shire residents can drop off green waste at no cost to any of the shire’s transfer stations for the month of November to prepare their property for the 2023-24 fire season. The service was introduced in a response to community feedback from over 700 community contributions for Moorabool’s Waste and Resource Recovery Strategy 2030. There is no restriction on the volume of green waste received from properties as long as it is received in a residential vehicle or trailer. Residents will be required to show proof of residency such as a driver’s licence or utility bill. Moorabool mayor Rod Ward said it’s a great initiative that he encourages residents to take advantage of. “It’s going to be a long, hot summer with increased bushfire risk so the more clearing and cleaning up around your property you do, the better,” he said. To be fire-season ready, green waste should be cleared from your property including undergrowth and fallen branches, leaves from gutters and grass. Tree stumps and branches over 200mm in diameter are not accepted within this service. Residents must ensure green waste is not mixed with household garbage, building materials, recyclables, or any other contaminant. In addition to the green waste service, residents are reminded that free recycling for e-waste, whitegoods, batteries, scrap metal and recyclables accepted in the yellow lid kerbside bin is available at the transfer stations throughout the year.

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Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

The Blues finally have a home The $4 million redevelopment of the Ballan Recreation Reserve is complete and officially open. Eureka MP Michaela Settle joined Moorabool Shire Council mayor Rod Ward, and members from the Ballan Football Netball Club to officially open the new pavilion on Friday, October 20. The new sports pavilion includes a large function room, kitchen and bar, office space, meeting rooms and storage sheds for the sporting clubs. New change rooms have four female friendly change rooms, umpire change rooms, and a tiered concourse provides an optimal view of the oval. The project was originally due to be completed last October, but faced multiple delays which Moorabool council said was due to weather and trades. The location of the

Representatives from state government, Moorabool council, and BFNC at the reserve opening. (Provided)

pavilion will allow for an extension of the oval to meet senior AFL football standards. The Ballan Recreation Reserve will be the home of several community and sporting groups including Ballan Football Netball Club,

Ballan Cricket Club, Ballan Tennis Club, Ballan Bowls Club, and the local karate club. Ballan Football Netball Club president David O’Hanlon said the project has been a long time coming, but there’s excitement building around town now that it’s complete. “We’ve now got a home base after so many years without footy at home… We played four games at home for the better part of five years,” he said. “It’ll be nice to get back home, hit the reset button and have a fresh start. “We’re all looking forward to getting back home, we’ve got state of the art facilities. It should be a good time to be involved.” The $4 million redevelopment was funded using $3 million from the state government and contributions from council, Ballan Recreation Reserve Committee, Ballan’s

Bendigo Bank and the Goldwind community fund. Ms Settle said she can’t wait to see the upgrade help community sport flourish. “We know Ballan is a proud sporting community. From a new space to cheer on the Ballan Blues to new facilities for our local tennis club and karate students, our upgraded recreation reserve will bring benefits to our community for generations,” she said. “For our kids, sport is a chance to create life-long bonds. I can’t wait to see community sport flourish with these upgrades.” Moorabool mayor Rod Ward said the completed reserve is an outstanding result. “Not only for the sporting clubs that will use the facility weekly, but for the entire community who will be able to access the space for functions and meetings,” he said.

A game-changing new breast cancer technology Women living in Melbourne’s western suburbs now have access to a new, ‘game-changing’ surgical technique used in the treatment of breast cancer. Earlier this month, Kathleen Carlisle became the first Victorian in the public healthcare system to benefit from a new radar localisation technology used in breast cancer surgery. Called SCOUT, the new technology allows surgeons to operate with unprecedented precision, resulting in more successful surgeries, optimising breast conservation strategies and enhancing outcomes for women. Kathleen, 70, retired dancer and gym instructor, underwent breast cancer surgery at Sunshine Hospital on October 6, using the new technique. “When I heard about this new technology from my surgeon I jumped at the chance,” she said. “The old way of doing things sounded really uncomfortable and I’m so grateful to Western Health and my surgical team at Sunshine Hospital for giving me the chance to try this new procedure”. The traditional method of locating a tumour in breast cancer surgery is for a radiologist to insert a wire into the tumour on the morning of breast cancer surgery, with the surgeon then using the wire to locate and remove the tumour. For the patient, this effectively means two procedures in one day and sometimes an uncomfortable and stressful overnight stay. Kathleen’s surgeon, Dr Sophie Nightingale, described the new technology as “game-changing”. “This technology is amazing. It’s much less invasive, and less stressful for patients,” she said. “It allows us to be more accurate, and patients lose less breast tissue during their surgery compared to the wire method.”

Kathleen Carlisle and Dr Sophie Nightingale at the Sunshine Hospital. (Damjan Janevski) 365970_04

The SCOUT Reflector can be implanted ahead of the day of surgery and allows real-time radar detection of the location of the tumour with millimetre accuracy. The technology works by implanting a small “reflector”, the size of a grain of rice, into the breast tissue. This can be done days or weeks

before surgery and can potentially be combined with a breast tissue biopsy, to further reduce the number of procedures for a patient. Western Health acting head of surgery Dr Bernard Allard said the team is excited to have the technology at Sunshine Hospital.

“As well as the clear benefits to patients, it will help us work more efficiently. We’ll have less down-time and more flexibility in booking times for surgeries which saves our healthcare system money and allows us to help more people in our community,” Dr Allard said.

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DINING OUT

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What dishes to choose when you decide to go Italian

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• Ravioli and Tortellini: Stuffed pasta is a favorite in Italy, with various fillings such as cheese, spinach, and ricotta. These pasta parcels are often dressed in simple but delicious sauces. • Tiramisu: A famous Italian dessert, tiramisu is a heavenly combination of ladyfingers soaked in coffee and layered with mascarpone cheese and cocoa. It’s a

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medley of fresh vegetables. • Panna Cotta: This creamy, custard-like dessert is often topped with a berry or caramel sauce, making it a sweet, silky way to conclude your meal. • Agnolotti: These are small, filled pasta pockets, typically stuffed with meat or cheese, and served with various sauces, often including butter and sage. • Cannoli: Hailing from Sicily, these sweet pastry tubes are filled with a sweet ricotta-based cream, and they’re often adorned with chocolate chips or candied fruit. • Olive Oil: In many Italian restaurants, you’ll be served fresh, crusty bread with extra virgin olive oil for dipping. The quality of the olive oil can make a significant difference in your dining experience. • Seafood: From cuisines along the Italian coast, you’ll find exquisite seafood dishes, such as Frutti di Mare (mixed seafood) or grilled calamari. • Saltimbocca: A Roman specialty, this dish features thin slices of veal wrapped in prosciutto and sage, cooked in white wine and butter. • Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella cheese is often served as a Caprese salad or on pizzas, celebrated for its soft, creamy texture. • Parmigiana: Dishes like eggplant parmigiana consist of layers of breaded and fried eggplant, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese. These traditional Italian dishes showcase the country’s diverse culinary heritage, with each region contributing its unique flavors and techniques. When dining at Italian restaurants, you have the opportunity to savor a rich tapestry of flavors that reflect Italy’s love for good food, fresh ingredients, and culinary tradition. Buon appetito!

delightful way to end a meal. • Gelato: Italian ice cream is renowned for its creamy texture and intense flavors. Popular options include chocolate, pistachio, and hazelnut, though you’ll find a vast array of flavors to satisfy your sweet tooth. • Minestrone: A hearty vegetable soup, minestrone varies from region to region but generally includes beans, pasta, and a

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Traditional Italian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its rich flavors, regional diversity, and emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients. When dining at Italian restaurants, you can expect to encounter a delightful array of dishes that reflect the country’s culinary heritage. Here are some of the classic Italian foods you can often find at such establishments: • Pizza: Originating in Naples, pizza is one of Italy’s most famous culinary exports. Traditional pizzas are simple, with thin crusts, fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and various toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, and basil. The Margherita, with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, is a classic favorite. • Pasta: Italy is synonymous with pasta, and you’ll find an extensive variety on restaurant menus. From the famous Spaghetti Bolognese to Fettuccine Alfredo and Lasagna, each region has its unique pasta dishes. Don’t forget about the ever-popular carbonara, made with eggs, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper. • Risotto: A creamy rice dish, risotto is a staple in northern Italy. It’s often flavored with ingredients like saffron, mushrooms, or seafood. The most renowned version is the Risotto alla Milanese, infused with saffron. • Antipasti: These are appetizers designed to whet your appetite. You’ll often find dishes like Bruschetta (toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil), Caprese (tomato, mozzarella, and basil), and Prosciutto e Melone (thinly sliced ham with melon). • Osso Buco: This Milanese specialty features braised veal shanks in a rich sauce, typically served with saffron-infused risotto. The tender meat and flavorful sauce make it a beloved dish.

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Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15

BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Gathering at the Big Blue Table October marks Mental Health Month across Australia. Throughout the month, Australians are encouraged to gather around the table and talk about mental health. Hannah Hammoud discovers more about Beyond Blue’s ‘Big Blue Table’ initiative.

early half of the people living in Australia will face a mental health condition in their lifetime. Across the nation, Beyond Blue is encouraging everyone to share a meal and start a conversation about mental health to support those impacted by anxiety, depression and suicide. Big Blue Table fundraising events will take place throughout October – Mental Health Month – to help fight the stigma surrounding mental health, one meal at a time. Beyond Blue lead clinical advisor Dr Grant Blashki said the best piece of advice he can give to people participating in the Big Blue Table, is to remember that you don’t need to have all the answers. “Never underestimate the value of just listening,” he said. “You don’t need any special qualification to do that. People just want the opportunity to share their concerns or share their stories. It’s tempting sometimes when people start talking about their own issues, to interrupt them and jump in with your own stories, but if you can just sit back a bit and just listen, that’s often very valuable. “Remember, you don’t have to be a psychologist. That’s something that some people can find a little bit daunting. All it is, is a good conversation, an open chat, and an opportunity to link people with support - but you don’t need to have all the answers. “One of the exciting things about the Big Blue Table is that human beings have for thousands of years sat around for a meal, and shared their feelings together. It’s one of the great ways to make people feel relaxed, and not rushed and it’s really part of our DNA to sit around together and talk about things. Dr Blashki said there has been a big change in the national conversation surrounding mental health, especially amongst young Australians, a development he describes as ‘beautiful’. “The conversation is much less loaded than it used to be. People are beginning to talk about mental health in the same way they might speak about their physical health, it has become very open,” he said. Working as a GP, Dr Blashki said there has been a ‘cascade’ of challenging events that have happened in the past few years, from the COVID-19 pandemic, extreme weather events and the current cost of living pressures which have seen mental health front and centre for many Australians. “Even though people are much more comfortable talking about mental health issues now, the reality is that many people don’t go and get help,” he said. “About one third of people don’t go and get help, and there’s different reasons for that. Some people might think their issues aren’t serious enough, or that they should work it out themselves, and some people are also worried about the costs of mental health services. These sorts of barriers are still very much there.” “Our message is for people to put up their hand early, get some help and like any sort of health condition, the earlier you get onto it the better. “There is a lot going on in the world at the moment, and it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed with the avalanche of information out there. People should feel reassured and important to remember that there’s a lot of good help out there. Whether it be through a GP, mental health professionals, Beyond Blue or other mental health organisations.” Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, where more than $570,000 was raised, Beyond Blue is encouraging people to gather around the Big Blue Table again in 2023. Organising a lunch with co-workers, a group picnic in the park or inviting friends for dinner and creating a safe space where

Beyond Blue says hosting a meal with your guests can help create a safe space where everyone feels comfortable talking about mental health. (Supplied)

“One of the exciting things about the Big Blue Table is that human beings have for thousands of years sat around for a meal, and shared their feelings together.” - Dr Grant Blashki people can express how they truly feel can be life changing. Over in the west, the team at Barry Plant Werribee are looking to top their fundraising effort for this year’s Big Blue Table, after raising more than $12,000 in 2022. One of the lead organisers, Martin Nardo said the occasion is a chance to get the community together and raise money for a ‘good cause’. Mr Nardo said he first heard of the Big Blue Table on the radio, and wanted to do something for the local community. “In the community alone we had seen a number of local residents fall into depression in the last two years with the added pressure of the pandemic. It was just an opportunity to spread awareness and give an opportunity to people who might have been struggling during that time,” he said. Mr Nardo is encouraging locals to grab a ticket for this year’s event that will be hosted at the Sporting Globe in Werribee on Friday, October 27, offering live music, finger food, and best of all, a chance to chat and meet others in the community. “We are hoping to beat last year’s fundraising amount, and everything goes directly to Beyond Blue. It’s a good cause for us all to get together and bring the community together,” he said. Tickets to the event are $100. For those looking to attend, contact the team at Barry Plant Werribee. Big Blue Table events can take place for any meal, including brunch or afternoon tea, and in any setting such as at home, the workplace or local sporting club. People who register early will receive a free host kit, which includes a guide, table

16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

Last year the Wyndham community came together to raise more than $12,000. (Supplied)

Beyond Blue is calling on Australians to bring their support to the table this Mental Health Month. (Supplied)

decorations and conversation starters designed to get the discussion going. Hosts are also provided with tips and tricks, including budget friendly hacks, to create a tasty, cost

effective and stress-free event. To find out more about the initiative and register to host your Big Blue Table event, visit bigbluetable.com.au.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR 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

Bacchus Marsh Flower and Garden Show The Bacchus Marsh Flower and Garden Show is returning across October 28 and 29. The competition schedule includes roses, cut flowers, floral art, Australian natives, junior, pot plants, garden produce, jams and preserves, photography and cake decoration. There’ll be a number of stall, talks and kids activities. Saturday noon-4pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. Admission $5 for adults, under 16’s free. Bacchus Marsh Public Hall, Main Street. ■ www.bmflowershow.org

Caroline Springs Rotary The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall from 7pm. ■ rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Melton Ladies Probus Meets from 10am on the second Wednesday of each month at Melton Country Club on Reserve Road, Melton. All visitors are welcome. ■ Dianne, 9743 7446

The Gap on Graham The Gap provides a place for Melton youth to hang out, socialise, play games and learn new skills. The centre holds a night for girls aged 10 to 18 years at 5 Graham Street, Melton, on Wednesday evenings. There is also a drop-in night for anyone aged 12 to 25 years old. ■ Val, 0414 769 605.

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Ema Corro, a fungi expert doing a BaccChat event for Moorabool council. (Damjan Janevski) 367040_01

■ 0406 493 734

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club The Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 10am at Melton Country Club. New members welcome. ■ Ann 0425705150

Melton South Knit & Natter All are welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa. ■ 9747 8576

Take weight off naturally Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Weight Off Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton. ■ Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739

Zonta club meets Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. ? Suzanne, 0417 512 420

U3A Melton Parkinson’s support group The Melton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the second Thursday of the month 10.30am–12.30pm at Kurunjang Community Centre, 33-35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. New members and carers welcome. ■ Helen, 0409 186 576

U3A Melton offers among its activities a book group, Australian history and a gentle exercise class for those 55 and older who are retired or semi-retired who wish to stay mentally and physically active. ■ 0419 563 016

The Melton Bridge Club has recommenced weekly social Bridge sessions at the Melton Library on Fridays from 10am-noon. Come along to play an exciting, social card game and have loads of fun. Bridge offers the suspense of poker, the cerebral qualities of chess and the excitement of athletic sports, all in a relaxed and social setting. If you like playing cards this is for you. ■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

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

Community singing group If you love to sing, come join the Melton Singers. The group rehearses regularly and also performs at aged care facilities. The group is very relaxed and sings songs mainly from the 60’s and 70’s. It meets Tuesdays at 10am. ■ Val, 0418 667 150

Bacchus Marsh and District Garden Club The club meets on the second Tuesday of each month except January, from 7.30pm, at The Laurels, 229 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh. Guest speakers and supper provided. Yearly membership $15. New members welcome. ■ Michelle, 0421 106 268

Community Band Greater Western Community Band, (founded 1991) is based in Melton. Rehearsals are on Thursdays, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, at Blackwood Drive Hall, Melton South. The group welcomes musicians young and old to come along and join in with the band. Also available for performance at events and festivals. ■ Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582

Over 50s Social Group Melton Combined Probus Club

Melton Bridge Club

Sunday rides. There are three different riding groups to cater for different abilities starting at 7.30am. The rides finish at Lazy Moe’s for a cuppa. ■ 0403 057 003

The Melton Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am. ■ 9746 0271

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park The Rose Carers meet Wednesdays from 10am-noon at Maddingley Park, corner of Grant and Taverner streets, Bacchus Marsh, to maintain two beautiful rose gardens. New volunteers are always welcome – with or without experience. ■ Elaine Greenhall, 0418 171 119, or 0400 052 857

Melton Cycling Club Melton Cycling Club meets for regular

18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

A friendly group of people aged over 50 who enjoy each other’s company while attending events and outings such as dinners, shows, dancing, cinemas and more. If you live in the Melton area and would like to meet new friends, in a welcoming group environment, this is for you. ■ Marlene, 0498329290

BusyFeet Hillside BusyFeet is a dance and movement class for children with intellectual and physical disabilities. Classes create a fun and inclusive environment for kids aged 6 to 16 to try new things and build social skills, as well as giving a chance for parents’ respite. 11am, to 11.45am Saturday mornings. ■ Ross, 0411 228 311

Sunrise Social Groups GenWest Sunrise Social Groups are currently seeking new members for their Melton, Brimbank and Wyndham programs. The free groups are organised by Genwest and provide a social space for women, gender diverse and nonbinary people, who have a disability, chronic health issues and/ or mental health challenges. ■ https://genwest.org.au/what-we-do/ health-wellbeing-programs/

First Aid courses Melton South Community Centre offers a range of First Aid courses, including HLTAID009, HLTAID011 and HLTAID012, and is now taking enrolments for Saturday, November. 25 Call the centre for information including times and prices, or to enrol. ■ 9747 8576

Reflexology workshop Discover the ancient practice of reflexology in Melton South Community Centre’s upcoming workshop. Running on Saturday, October 28, from 9.30am to 12.30pm, this course will teach you all the essentials of this natural healing method. All materials provided; $60 or $55 concession. Call the centre for information and enrolments. ■ 9747 8576

Preserves workshop Learn how to create your own fruit and vegetable jams and preserves at Melton South Community Centre on Sunday, October 29. From 10am to 1.30pm attendees will discover the essential techniques and take home jars of their creations. Everything is supplied. $45 or $40 concession. Call the centre for information and enrolments. ■ 9747 8576

Patisserie & Baking Skills course Take the first step to a new career in Melton South Community Centre’s 6-week pre-accredited Intro to Patisserie & Baking Skills course. Make a variety of bread, cake and other baked goods and take them home with you each week, along with a certificate. Thursday or Saturday classes available, starting in November. $90 or $70 concession. For information and enrolments, call 9747 8576.

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

easy

5 3 1 8 1 4 7 5 2

8 2 7

7 6

7 9 8 5 8 6 3 2 9 1 6 7

2 3

Clients (9) Land measure (imp) (4) Insect before butterfly (11) Circus (8) Strut (6) Cross-cultural internet joke (4) Disregarded (7) They’re found in laksa or pho (7) Small case for small articles (4) Heavenly body (6) Aligned (8) Diversion (11) River in Hades (4) Sounds made to indicate an incoming call (9)

14 19

24 25 27 28 29

DOWN Subterranean burial chamber (8) Medical term (8)

1 2

medium

8 9 7 1

7 8 3 5 7 6 6 1

No. 156

Flower (6) Apart (9) Slave (4) Arrest (6) Merited (6) Sea robbers (7) Action (9) Limb part (7) Male horse (8) Ways of speaking (8) Playing suit (6) Swampy (6) Type of nut (6) Mark left by a wound (4)

3 4 5 7 8 9 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 26

ACROSS 1 6 10 11 12 13

QUICK CROSSWORD

DECODER

No. 156

5 2 3 1 9 3 6 4 7

6 2

1 5 4 hard

9-LETTER WORD Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Today’s Aim: 21 words: Good 31 words: Very good

CUTER DEEDS EDGER ELUDE ELVES ENTER FACED FIVER FROGS GENES HARED HOVEL IDEAL IMAGE MACHO MATED NAIVE NESTS NOTED ODDER OMEGA OUNCE

4 LETTERS ANEW DEEP EELS MUGS RIFE SLAY SLIP SNOB STEM TUGS 5 LETTERS AGILE ALIBI ALOUD APART BOSSY CARAT COMBS

PACTS REVUE RIVAL SEEDY SHOPS SHOTS

6 LETTERS CALLER HARROW KETTLE NOBLES PASSER TRUCES

SOLED SPENT STRAY STYLE THERE TIERS TIMED

7 LETTERS CAREFUL CONFINE ENTRIES OVEREAT PATTERN VERTIGO

8 LETTERS AMERICAN DEPORTED DESERVED HOMESPUN 10 LETTERS DISTRESSES PRETENSION

TRACE TRAIL TRIBE UNITS VERGE WOODS

27-10-23

No. 156 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

H O S

QUICK QUIZ

Which team won the 2013 AFL Grand Final?

In 2023, which artist broke the record for most Grammys in history?

Which band released the albums The Getaway, Stadium Arcadium and The Uplift Mofo Party Plan?

What is the capital of Greece?

What is the West African dish Fufu?

Who won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor at the 2022 awards?

What is the chemical symbol for lead?

10 Which Australian TV singing contest returned in 2023?

C O W L

L I T S U G H T N L A Y

F O I

acme, calm, came, camel, camp, cape, caplet, celt, cilia, ciliate, cite, claim, clam, clamp, clap, cleat, climate, clime, clip, eclat, elicit, epic, ileac, iliac, impact, IMPLICATE, italic, lace, laic, lice, licit, mace, malice, mica, mice, pace, pact, pica, place, plaice, plicate, talc

5 3 7 4 1 2 6 9 8 9 4 1 3 8 6 5 7 2 6 2 8 7 9 5 1 4 3 2 5 6 9 4 1 3 8 7 1 7 3 6 2 8 9 5 4 4 8 9 5 3 7 2 6 1 7 9 4 2 5 3 8 1 6 8 6 2 1 7 9 4 3 5 3 1 5 8 6 4 7 2 9

No. 156

( / 9 ( 6

7 4 2 3 5 6 1 9 8 6 5 3 1 9 8 2 4 7 8 1 9 4 2 7 5 6 3 4 7 5 6 8 9 3 2 1 9 2 8 5 1 3 4 7 6 3 6 1 7 4 2 9 8 5 1 9 4 8 6 5 7 3 2 2 8 7 9 3 1 6 5 4 5 3 6 2 7 4 8 1 9

1 8 9 6 3 5 7 2 4 2 7 6 1 9 4 8 3 5 4 3 5 2 8 7 6 9 1 5 4 3 7 2 6 1 8 9 7 1 8 4 5 9 3 6 2 6 9 2 3 1 8 4 5 7 8 5 1 9 4 3 2 7 6 3 6 4 5 7 2 9 1 8 9 2 7 8 6 1 5 4 3

10 11 12 13

T W 18

L O

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

S H

I U

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

42 words: Excellent

hard

5x5

F G Y AME S N C O D B V

medium

3 LETTERS ADD ADO AGE AIL APT BOA CUE DUO EBB EGG EKE GOP HUE NEE NET PEG PER PRO TNT TWO WEB YES

easy

Z KH R U I L J Q P X TW

1 6 3 8 6 6 5 1 3 5 9 7 1 3 9 4 4 7 6 7 4 2 6 1 7 9 5 6

WORDFIT

Jennifer Coolidge (pictured) plays Tanya McQuoid in which 2023 series?

In which US state is Yosemite national park located?

ANSWERS: 1. Hawthorn Football Club 2. Beyoncé 3. Athens 4. Troy Kotsur 5. The White Lotus 6. California 7. Red Hot Chili Peppers 8. Mashed starchy root vegetables 9. Pb 10. Australian Idol

No. 156

0 $ & + 2 6 + 2 3 6 3 $ & 7 6 + 2 9 ( / $ 3 $ 5 7 $ / 2 8 ' 7 , 0 ( ' 2 0 ( * $ 6 7 5 $ < ( % % ( 1 7 ( 5 < ( 6 $ , / . ( 7 7 / ( ' , 6 7 5 ( 6 6 ( 6 + 7 3 $ 7 7 ( 5 1 ) , 9 ( 5 & 8 7 ( 5 7 8 * 6 $ 0 ( 5 , & $ 1 0 8 * 6 1 ( ( & 2 1 ) , 1 ( & $ 5 ( ) 8 / ( * * ( ( / 6 ' ( 3 2 5 7 ( ' ' ( ( 3 ( / 9 ( 6 % 2 6 6 < ( 1 7 5 , ( 6 : * + $ 5 5 2: 3 5 ( 7 ( 1 6 , 2 1 $ * ( % 2 $ 7 5 , % ( ' 8 2 5 , 9 $ / 1 $ , 9 ( 6 3 ( 1 7 ( ' * ( 5 7 5 $ & ( ( / 8 ' ( :2 2 ' 6 6 2 / ( ' ' ( ( ' 6

SUDOKU

Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 19

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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MELTON TREE & STUMP REMOVALS “Your Local Tree & Stump Removalist” • Fully Insured Tree Lopping • Mulching & Stump Grinding

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1229835-ACM22-16

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20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

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฀

0421 421 640

Call 0430 332 368

Lou’s Colorbond Fencing

Phone 0401 005 760

฀ ฀ ฀

KS Heating & Cooling

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12402755-RA44-18

Specialising in ✔ Pergolas and deckings ✔ Fencing ✔ Framing ✔ Home Renovations Free Quotes

฀

1232632-ACM26-16

We SADIE IGA PTY LTD applied to Liquor Control Victoria on 23/08/2023 for the grant of a packaged liquor licence at 2 Sadie Ave, Thornhill Park 3335. Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that: • it would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated, and/or • it would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol. An objection must state the reasons for the objection. All objections are treated as public documents. Objections must be made in writing to: Liquor Control Victoria PO Box 1019 Richmond VIC 3121 Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice.

V Heating

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TD CARPENTRY

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

Colorbond, Timber, Pool Fences, Gates and Retaining Walls. Call Jarrod for a free quote

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12499953-AV25-21

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12532852-NG04-22 12619650-JB29-23

• 40 Years Family FR Owned & Operated QUO EE TES • 25 Year Warranty • Senior/Pensioner Discount #1 in MELTON

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0412 184 772

NICK’S RE-BLOCKING SERVICE

IMPOUNDING OF LIVESTOCK ACT 1994 NOTICE OF IMPOUNDED LIVESTOCK The following animal has been impounded from within the municipal district of the City of Melton by Council Authorised Ofﬁcers. 1 White, Male Sheep (Ram) displaying illegible ear tags Was impounded on Monday 16th of October 2023 from the Exford Road area Exford. If not claimed and fees paid by Monday 31st October 2023, this animal will be disposed of in accordance with the impounding of livestock Act 1994 or sent to a valid rescue organisation. All enquiries regarding the above-mentioned animal should be directed to Council’s Animal Management Unit on 9747 7200. Attention Ofﬁcer Tiffany Naughton, Animal Management. 12643124-JC43-23

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NEWS

MY PLACE Annette Pedersen is a retired physiotherapist of almost 50 years. She spoke to Star Weekly about her connection to Melton and the multiple community organisations she volunteers with.

Annette Pedersen. (Damjan Janevski) 368029_01

our community. We meet on the first Monday of the month. For more information email info@ zontaclubofmelton.org.au.

Public Notices and Event

Style Cut Salon

CLASSIFIEDS EARLY DEADLINES 12643393-ET43-23

Melbourne Cup Day Classified deadlines for Tuesday, 7th November issue of the Melton/Moorabool Star Weekly as follows:

Beauty Services

Friday 3rd November at 1.30pm

Hair up & makeup $80 Massage $60 per hour Jacuzzi & Sauna $30pp includes refreshments 2hr sessions. Children under 6 free M: 0497 677 931 www.stylecutsalon.com

12640413-HC41-23

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12561969-JC32-22

$110/ 30mins Open 7 days 48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B

Tuition

NEED A TUTOR? Tutor for 8 years. WWCC. Yr 7-10 English. VCE English. VCE Global Politics. Provides individual online tutoring via zoom and in person at local libraries. Please contact me for pricing, times and questions. Email: chels.toka6@gmail.com

Pets & Services

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(Sister Joy or Sister Vinney) 05.08.1928 – 11.10.2023 Aged 95 Passed away peacefully with daughters Cheryl and Moira beside her. Beloved Maternal Child Welfare Nurse at Melton and then at Ron Davis Pharmacy - giving advice to new mothers and babies for generations. Special mention to Maureen, Yvonne and mum’s nursing colleague Di for their friendship. ‘Recognition of contribution to Melton City Council’ was presented by the Mayor Bob Turner. A life given to caring for others. Loved by many. Resting in peace.

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12643443-KG43-23

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12423634-SN31-19

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Don't have a VIC Driver's Accreditation or Working with Children's Check? Don't worry, we will happily work with you on obtaining them! Successful applicants must be available to work both morning and afternoon shifts and hold all 3 licences before commencing their position. BusBiz are also seeking relief drivers for existing driver base. Contact: Human Resources 5032 1068 www.busbiz.net.au

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General Notices

What do you like about living in Melton? We are very fortunate to live very close to Navan Park and lake, after moving from central Melton in 1994. We have seen the area

transform from an open, virtually treeless place, with a lake that shrank to a small size every summer, to a lovely park with good walking and cycling tracks, playground, barbecues and off-lead dog area. Birdlife abounds now trees have matured. Melton Botanic Garden is another special place, what a vision by John Bentley and his team to transform this area on Ryans Creek – and such wonderful work done to establish this. Now many volunteers also help to maintain and grow the garden. On the whole, the people in Melton are very friendly. What, if anything, would you change about where you live? Personally, we would love the old Melton Courthouse to be a cafe again! It had a lovely atmosphere inside, and has plenty of outdoor area to sit in good weather. We need a hospital ASAP – driving to Sunshine/ Footscray / Werribee is getting more and more challenging, and Ballarat is still almost an hour away. The on-going issue of infrastructure lagging so far behind development. Ferris Road overpass and Cobblebank Ferris Road rail crossings are prime examples. Single lanes just don’t cope. Melton South virtually gridlocks at school times, especially when trains come through. What’s something people would be surprised to know about you? I am a weather nerd – I check out synoptic charts, forecasts and rain radar at breakfast, plus a visual check of sky – clouds, wind direction, etc. I have kept a rain gauge record for almost 30 years. My father also had the weather “eye”, and my nephew also. Husband and daughters, no!

12565959-HC35-22

What’s your connection to Melton? I came to Victoria in 1971 from Tasmania to train, met and married a Victorian and stayed. After a year renting in Maidstone, we bought a house in Melton, and moved here at the end of 1975, on a federal dlection day – made it to vote with 5 mins to spare! We liked the lower cost of housing, open spaces, accessibility to regional areas as well as Melbourne. Another reason was my husband was already coming up for further light plane flying lessons at Fogarty’s Field (now Melton Airfield) in Coburns Road. Tell us about your work with Zonta? The Zonta Club of Melton has been active in town for 23 years, and we are part of the global service organisation, Zonta International – with the focus on ‘Building a Better World for Women and Girls’. We fundraise for projects such as scholarships for grade 11 girls in three local schools, dignity bags for women escaping domestic violence or at risk of homelessness, ovarian cancer research, plus we make and supply soft breast cushions to women after breast surgery at hospitals in our region, and assemble birthing kits for distribution to birth attendants in third-world countries. November 25 to December 10 we participate in 16 Days of Activism against domestic violence, with two events in pipeline on November 26, a ‘Walk with Her’ in the morning with Western Health promotion team , and another event in conjunction with Melton Central Cricket Women’s match in the afternoon. Plus - watch out around our libraries for our ‘Orange Ladies’ displaying signs related to reducing domestic violence in

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‘S’ puts on a Jolion show By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring The Chinese automobile maker GWM Haval has spiced up its popular small petrol sports utility vehicle segment with the addition of a Jolion S, as well as doubling up on the hybrid models to two. With the Jolion Premium acting as the entry-level, at $28,490 drive-away, the ‘S’ variant ($36,990), slots in the six-model range between the Ultra and the two hybrids, the lesser with Lux trim and priced the same as the S. The Jolion Ultra Hybrid ($40,990) tops off the line-up. The new Jolion S, on test here, stands alone from the rest of the model range with a pepped-up power plant, fresh multi-link rear suspension and various unique black exterior features for a sportier appearance. Inside the cabin, only on the ‘S’, is a new layout of buttons directly under the centre dash infotainment screen, preventing their accidental operation. Owners benefit from GWM’s seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty and economical capped price servicing costs for five years. STYLING Setting the Jolion S apart from other models are black 18-inch wheels, black door mirror caps, black roof rails, black side garnish, and blacked-out lower front and rear bumpers. Jolians in general, feature a multi-faceted pattern of daytime running lights bookending LED headlamps and fog lights. The grille adds to the shine with sparkling finish and horizontal accents to create a bold, if flashy, show. The car’s profile is standard SUV lines with a coupe-like roof curve approaching the C-pillar. Except having more badges than a Scout jamboree, the rear is as plain as the front is glitzy. INTERIOR The general occupant opinion was that heated front seats were some of the most comfortable in this class of car, while faux leather with contrast stitching and Haval logo was good enough to give the impression of the luxury of the real thing. That as maybe, but the lack of angling the driver’s seat base for added comfort and the absence of lumbar support shaved off some of the shine. The leather-clad steering misses out on reach adjustment. It’s angle only. Thanks to a long wheelbase the bench-like back seat accommodates three across with generous legroom. In addition are air vents, USB charge ports behind the centre console, rear map pockets, bottle holders in the doors, and a fold-down centre armrest with extra cup holders. Headroom is compromised by the sloping roofline and sunroof, as is the rear view is restricted by the angled window. Storage is taken care of by a central bin and a pair of cup holders in two sizes in the centre console, while door pockets can fit bottles. Boot space checks in at 430 litres (enough to take a couple of big suitcases) and 1133 litres with the 60:40 second row stowed. There’s room only for an under-floor space-saver spare.

The Jolion S has pepped up the Haval SUV range.

INFOTAINMENT A 12.3-inch touchscreen crowns the central dashboard and a 7-inch digital display sits directly in front of the driver. Topping this off is a head-up windscreen display featuring digital speedo, speed limits and lane discipline diagram. Connectivity consists of the 12.3-inch colour multimedia touchscreen linked to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Audio is handled by a six-speaker system, which misses out on a volume knob or toggle, other than on the steering wheel. The front passenger is left out, limited only to using the audio menu via the touchscreen. The Jolion S continues the quirky driver focused camera constantly checking whether he or she is paying attention to matters at hand. A camera fixed to the A-pillar serves up an audible ding and the admonishment ‘Hey, don’t stray!’ on the touchscreen on catching what it thinks is concentration wavering. Chinese checkers? It’s all a bit naff to me. ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS The Haval Jolion S is powered by an upgraded 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine hitched up to a seven-speed dual clutch automatic transmission driving through the front wheels. This is enough to come up with a maximum 130 kW and 270 Nm, 20 kW and 50 Nm above the trio below it in the line-up.

22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

SAFETY Standard safety features include seven airbags including front-centre, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection. There’s lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control with stop/go and safe exit warning. Unfortunately, some of the assistance is a tad too keen comfortably to help out. Cameras create an all-round plan view of the vehicle, while Haval’s A-pillar-mounted spy camera keeps a check of the driver’s behaviour behind the wheel. All Jolians are rated five stars for safety on 2022 testing. DRIVING Despite upgrades to the powerplant, the turbo turned out to be a little hesitant to connect, especially on inclines. This was even more pronounced in reverse gear, when power came in annoying bursts. Once on the move, however, the Jolion S put on a boisterous (some would say harsh) performance, especially when wound up. Ragged edges did appear in stop/start city motoring. As stated by the maker, expect a combined urban/highway fuel consumption of around 7.5 litres per 100km, compared to the standard 1.5’s 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres. A 55-litre tank takes 91 RON unleaded petrol. The Jolion S is the only model in the line-up

to be fitted with a multi-link independent rear suspension, in place of the standard torsion beam set-up, which the maker claims offers ‘enhanced ride and handling’. The test car took to sweeping around fast bends with the tail fixed firmly to the road. However, the suspension was susceptible to a bang or two from behind on bumpy roads. The rotary gearshift is wayward in selecting (D)rive or (M)anual mode and spins without any transmission connection if not careful. On the other hand, new push-button climate control switches on the centre dash have alleviated the previous faults with the touch controls, which were easy to catch accidentally while resting the palm when working the touch screen. SUMMARY While the price of the Haval Jolion S is $3000 up on the past petrol flagship, the Ultra, there is more in the newbie’s performance and packaging to more than justify the financial jump. RATINGS n Looks: 7/10 n Performance: 6/10 n Safety: 8/10 n Thirst: 7/10 n Practicality: 8/10 n Comfort: 7/10 n Tech: 8/10 n Value: 7/10

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Western United’s dream start Western United kicked off its 2023-24 campaign in outstanding fashion, defeating Melbourne City 2-0. Lachie Wales broke the game open with a neat finish in the 60th minute but Melbourne City debutant Tolgay Arslan equalised just two minutes later. There were chances at both ends but United was awarded a penalty in the final five minutes of normal time, which Noah Botic duly dispatched to send the Green and Black faithful into raptures. The win is United’s first in the opening round of the season since the Club’s first ever season, getting the season off to a dream start. Coach John Aloisi named four debutants in his first starting XI of the season, with Tom Heward-Belle starting in goal and Daniel Penha, Angus Thurgate and Riku Danzaki lining up across the midfield. Botic started up front with Wales alongside and Josh Risdon led the team out as club captain for the first time. Post game Aloisi said he was extremely happy with Botic’s work, scoring the team’s second goal. “The first year he (Botic) was here, he played an NPL (National Premier League) game and we had a penalty, and he didn’t take it,” Aloisi said. “And I said to him, ‘Why didn’t you take that penalty?’, and he said ‘Someone else wanted it’. I said, ‘You’re a striker, you want to score goals, be that player to score those important goals’. “That’s how much he’s matured and grown. He’s only 21 but he’s still matured in the sense that he believes he’s the one that can lead the line. “We’ve got players that can help him with

Noah Botic (Western United)

that, but he showed good composure when he was fatigued right at the end of the game to win it. “He didn’t have a lot of opportunities but he kept on believing that his moment would come. It did and he took it.”

Following a difficult spell, Botic joined United in 2021, but it took until the 2022-23 season for him to truly show the competition what he was all about, scoring six goals in 21 games after finally earning consistent opportunities in the senior side.

With Serbian striker Aleksandar Prijovic departing, he looks set to lead the charge up-front in United’s 2023-24 season. United return to action next Saturday night, when they face Western Sydney Wanderers in Sydney.

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which GWS star called the AFL ‘inherently biased’ in regards to the ‘favoured treatment’ of Victorian clubs? 2. What was the reason the Constellation Cup Game 1 between the Diamonds and the New Zealand Silver Ferns was halted? 3. Of the 24 rounds in the 2023 AFL season, how many games resulted in a draw?

4. How old was Simone Biles when she won her first gold medal? 5. Name the Australian speed skater who won Olympic gold after after all his competors crashed?

13. What team does Mary Fowler play for in England’s Women’s Super League? 14. AFL player Tyler Brockman was recently traded to which team?

6. How many premierships has Collingwood won to date?

15. How many NBA teams has Ben Simmons played for in his career?

7. St Kilda veteran Jade Gresham has officially been traded to which club?

16. At which Olympics did athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos make their famous Black Power Salute?

8. Which tennis star announced she would be returning to play professionally in 2024 after her pregnancy? 9. Which tennis tournament will Rafael Nadal be making his Grand Slam return to? 10. Which AFL player has a viral cooking channel on TikTok? 11. Which nation did England lose to by 69 runs in the ICC Cricket World Cup?

Ben Simmons

12. Which Australian boxer recently defeated Brian Mendoza in a title bout?

Rafael Nadal

17. Australian punter Arryn Siposs last played for which NFL team? 18. Which former cricketer recently received a payout from the BBC for an accident on the TV series Top Gear? 19. The NHL team Boston Bruins has which animal as its mascot? 20. Bonnie Toogood and Stephanie Cain are the co-captains of which AFL Women’s team? 21. Which former professional surfer was recently elevated to legend status in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame?

22. Which former rugby union player was recently elevated to legend status in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame? 23. Kai Jones most recently played for which NBA team? 24. Which Brisbane Bullet was recently given a five-match suspension after a game against the Cairns Taipans? 25. Which horse won the 2023 running of The Everest thoroughbred horse race?

27. And which retired NBA player was recently named Reebok’s vice president of basketball? 28. Australian cyclist Saya Sakakibara won the 2023 World Cup title in which variety of racing? 29. Michael Prior is coach of which AFLW club? 30. Which player scored in England’s recent 1-0 win over the Socceroos at Wembley Stadium?

26. Which retired NBA player was recently named Reebok’s president of basketball?

2710

1. Tom Green 2. Power outages 3. Two 4. 16 years old 5. Steven John Bradbury 6. 15 (VFL/AFL) 7. Essendon 8. Naomi Osaka 9. 2024 Australian Open 10. Christian Petracca 11. Afghanistan 12. Tim Tszyu 13. Manchester City 14. West Coast 15. Two (Philadelphia and Brooklyn) 16. 1968 Mexico City Olympics 17. Philadelphia Eagles 18. Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff 19. Bear 20. Essendon 21. Layne Beachley 22. Mark Ella 23. Charlotte Hornets 24. Aron Baynes 25. Think About It 26. Shaquille O’Neal 27. Allen Iverson 28. BMX 29. West Coast Eagles 30. Ollie Watkins Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

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New coach and operations manager for Sharks Hillside has strengthened its women’s program in the Essendon District Football League, bringing in a new coach and operations manager. Blaise Ferraro will coach the Sharks’ senior women in 2024. Ferraro is the Sharks’ current games record holder, a former senior men’s premiership captain and life member. He also has nine years of assistant and head coaching experience under his belt. Ferraro has retired from playing to take the role with the women’s side. “That was a big decision for me personally,” he said. “I’ve had some experience with the women’s program before, when we started up the juniors at the club, I coached one of the teams.” The Sharks finished in sixth position in the EDFL premier division this season, with four wins from their 13 matches. With the aim next season, to boost up the ladder. “While they finished towards the bottom of the ladder, they weren’t really at any threat of

relegation,” Ferraro said. “There are no confirmed outs at the moment, all of the team of the year players and the VFL [Victorian Football League] experienced players are all committed to play next year which is good. “We’ve got a handful of players returning who have been away from the club for the last few years. “So far it’s looking promising so hopefully we can move up the ladder sooner rather than later.” To team up with Ferraro the club has added Chris Baba to oversee its women’s program. Baba comes with a wealth of experience, with a background in sports administration and has worked at Carlton and the Western Bulldogs football clubs in various business development and sponsorship roles. He also spent a couple of years working within the recruiting team at the Bulldogs being responsible for scouting and reporting on prospective AFL talent.

“The experience he brings is invaluable really,” Ferraro said. “We’re really lucky to get somebody like that involved and want to be involved. “People with that resume and who are that enthusiastic, you can’t put a price on it.” With Ferraro and Baba now steering the ship, the goal is simple. “To play finals will be the main goal,” Ferraro said. “They’re a pretty close group already which is handy and they are all excited and ready to go. “Pre-Covid they were playing finals and making prelims, so they have experience being there, they’ve had a taste of it before so they definitely want that back.” Harper Sercombe

Blaise Ferraro (Supplied)

Western Rams want out Riddell District

Chris Daley is set to take the Sharks forward (Ljubica Vrankovic) 353250_32_

Daley to lead Sharks By Harper Sercombe Hillside has announced Chris Daley as its new men’s coach. Daley has been involved in football for over 40 years with over 25 years of experience within the Essendon District Football League. He joined the Sharks for the 2022 season, serving as an assistant coach under Charlie Denaro. Denaro announced he was stepping down from the role during the season. Now, at the helm of his own senior side for the first time he said he is keen to get going. “Being fortunate to be an assistant for the last two years, I’ve had a good look at the list,” he said. “The beauty of it is that we’ve actually signed the entire list before the senior coach was announced. “So we’ve created a club and a culture that people are really happy to be a part of, the playing list is very tight, it’s very talented. “We’ll just tweak it a little bit, add a couple of top end players to it and I think we can take some bigger steps again.” Daley said he takes confidence out of the

players signing on at the club, demonstrating their willingness to fully buy into what the club is seeking to achieve. “Where the club started from a couple of years ago, it was basically a complete rebuild from almost nothing,” he said. “We lost quite a few players over the summer leading into the 2022 season, so to build on that and to get to where we’ve got to reasonably quickly speaks volumes to our program. “The fact they re-signed immediately, shows they can see the light at the end of the tunnel and I’m pretty sure they want to be a part of it.” This season the Sharks performed strongly in division 1, finishing fifth and defeating rivals, St Albans in the first week of finals. It was the Sharks’ return to finals since the 2018 season. “[A premiership] would be the icing on the cake,” Daley said. “But if we can improve again, I don’t think we need to improve a great deal. “We were competitive against pretty much every side barring [eventual premiers] Deer Park.

24 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 24 October, 2023

“We showed great signs, we beat Rupertswood, we beat every other team in the competition. “We won our first senior final in over 10 years and our first ever division 1 final. “I think the path that we’ve taken and the growth that we’ve got within our group, if we just add a couple of top end players, and those boys will improve again straight away. “There’s no real cap on what we might be able to do. “At the end of the day every club wants to win the premiership, and as a club we’re in a much better space as a whole to go up, should that be the case.” While Daley isn’t focusing on one particular position to add “top end talent” to, there was one prerequisite on the players entering the club. “We’ll be looking to add valuable people to our club before we add the best players, and make sure they complement our list,” he said. “We’ve created a great culture and we don’t want to damage that in any way, shape or form. “You’ve got to be really careful about the player you bring in.”

The Western Rams have weighed up their future within the Riddell District Football Netball League. The struggling Rams haven’t won a game since 2018 which prompted decision makers at the club to question whether it should move into the Western Region Football League. The club hosted a special general meeting on October 18 to discuss and vote on the move, where it was unanimously agreed that a move into the WRFL would best suit its needs. Acting president Stephen Lalli-Cafini said it would be the best outcome for the club. “Our location, we’re right in the middle of the west, so there won’t be a whole lot of travel,” he said. “We want to go across and be a bit more competitive. “The league [RDFL] is just going to continue to get stronger and stronger, and just where we are I think it’s better suited for us to be playing in our own region.” While a move is the Rams aim, they will still need the permission of both leagues and AFL victoria. “I’m going to now make a formal request with the WRFL… to make sure we’re not just a good fit for them but they’re a good fit for us,” Lalli-Cafini said. Since the club last won a match, against Bradford in round four of the 2018 season it has been dominated in nearly every game it has played. Including boasting an average losing margin of 109 points this season. The side only managed an average score of 15.63 across this season. If the Rams were to move to the WRFL they would be the fourth club to leave the RDFL since the 2018 season, joining Sunbury Kangaroos (left for the 2019 season to the Ballarat Football League), Broadford and Rupertswood (both left for the start of the 2021 season to the Outer East Football Netball League and the Essendon District Football League respectively). Both the RDNFL and the WRFL were contacted for comment. Harper Sercombe

SPORT Davis back at the Bears as new women’s coach Burnside Heights has appointed Michael Davis as its seniors women’s coach. Davis is no stranger to the Bears having been the club’s inaugural under 18’s boys coach back in 2014. He has coached previously at both junior and senior levels and more recently was the under 18’s girl’s coach at Taylors Lakes. Coaching again wasn’t on Davis’ mind, however the lure of coaching his twin daughters got him back involved at the club. “They asked me to put my hand up… it wasn’t on the horizon that I’d ever do it again, but when your kid asks you to do something, you have to do it,” Davis said. “I coached my boy so I have to do the right thing by the girls.” The Bears had a great Essendon District Football League division 1 home and away

season this year, finishing in second position, losing just three games. However, all of their good work fell away in finals, going out in straight sets to Greenvale and the eventual premiers Essendon Doutta Stars. “It’s exciting to see where we can go together,” Davis said. “By adding a game style or a game plan into their general ability. “There’s a good strong core of footballers there, it’s just a matter of working with the lesser lights and getting them up to speed to take the pressure off the better football players.” One of the best players in the team and competition, is midfielder Krissy Trang who won her second league best and fairest this season. She also won the award in the premier division in 2019 and she was runners up last

season. “Most of the squad at this stage is returning,” Davis said. “Our plan is to see where we set up and make finals and then after that, we’ll see what happens. There are other clubs fielding teams for the first time this year, so there’ll be more challenges and you don’t know where these players have come from. But we’re talking to a few girls that I’ve coached in the past and I know, and we’ve had a couple of people reach out that want to join the Bears. “There’s probably four [women] that I’m aware of at this point in time, but it’s still early, we’re still four weeks away from preseason starting.” Former coach Jeff Stevens stepped down from the role after having five seasons at the helm of the Bear’s women’s program.

Michael Davis (Supplied)

Sports shorts WRFL Caroline Springs has added to its senior women’s program bringing in Shaun Rainer as a senior assistant coach to Alex O’Shea in 2024. The club said that Rainer will bring a breadth of knowledge and experience to our girls, having a vast coaching experience at different levels. “He spent 7 years as a coaching assistant at Hoppers Crossing Football Club to their senior men, before joining our own senior men’s coaching team,” it said via social media.

AFL

Keiwa Hieda scored her first A-League goal (Western United)

United is back on track Western United mounted another trademark comeback in the A-League Women to claim a priceless 2-1 win over rivals Melbourne Victory on Sunday. Mark Torcaso made one change to his starting 11, and it was a big one, Matildas’ star Chloe Logarzo led the team out as captain in her first start for the Club. Alyssa Dall’Oste continued in goal and joined Grace Maher in making her home debut, while Lucy Richards was named on the bench for the first time. Looking to right some of the wrongs from last week, United started this game with a much higher tempo, looking to get forward early with Kahli Johnson getting a few looks at Jessika Nash on the left-hand side. United’s early impetus ultimately amounted to nothing and Victory were able to get up the other end and take the lead in the 15th minute. Western United continued to work to find a footing in the game and slowly began to show positive signs in possession, knocking the ball from side to side and getting into the final third. Johnson won a corner that was flicked on by Hannah Keane before deflecting out for another corner, and that set piece nearly resulted in an own goal with Victory clearing

their lines in the nick of time. United continued in that vein and dominated much of the back end of the first half, with the only thing missing being the equalising goal to show for it. Immediately out of half time, United sought to continue its spell of dominance but couldn’t quite enjoy the say some success in possession. Against the wind, it became increasingly difficult for United to work the ball up the pitch but there remained some nice passages of play to work the ball higher up the pitch. The Green and Black began to edge further forward and after a couple of corners in quick succession, Torcaso’s team finally had its equaliser. Adriana Taranto’s in-swinging delivery held up slightly in the wind and her sister was alive to it, with Melissa nipping in front of Williams and flicking the ball into the net despite Kayla Morrison’s best efforts on the goal line. From there, Victory began to take the ascendancy and held more of the possession, making it difficult for United to get out of the defensive third. But United wasn’t to be deterred, showing its customary grit and determination to wrestle the lead on the stroke of injury time. After winning the corner from which it came,

substitute Hieda scored her first professional goal, steaming in to finish from virtually on the goal line after Williams had saved Keane’s effort up into the air. “I thought we played quite well to be honest, I thought we kept possession of the ball,” coach Mark Torcaso said. “We probably didn’t do it so well in the first 25 minutes or so but once we regained confidence in possession in that last 10 minutes of the first half we looked pretty solid. “We brought that into the second half and then we were confident we could find a way to score. “Just the way that we remained composed in possession in the way we built up was really satisfying. “The conditions were pretty difficult for the girls.” The women are on international break next week as Torcaso heads to coach the Philippines women’s national team. “To get three points before the [international] break is so important for us and I’m so proud of the girls today and they deserved that win,” Torcaso said. Following the break, United will play Melbourne City at City Vista at 4pm on Sunday November, 5.

Former Western Jet and Darley player Zak Butters has capped a breakout year by winning the John Cahill Medal as Port Adelaide’s 2023 AFL best and fairest player. The 23-year-old was remarkably consistent after a slow start, polling votes in all but two of the club’s 25 games. The John Cahill Medal win caps a strong season where Butters earned his first All-Australian blazer and won the AFL Coaches’ Association Champion Player of the Year award among other accolades after a move from the forward line into the midfield. “I’ve put more into myself as I ever have this year,” Butters said in his acceptance speech. “If you keep showing up, you get what you deserve, so the more you put in the more you get out of it. I like to live like that as well.”

BFL Bacchus Marsh has added former AFL player Andrejs Everitt to the club for the 2024 Ballarat Football League season. Coming on board as a playing assistant coach, Everitt is continuing his long association with the Cobra’s new coach, Dennis Armfield. Having played at the highest level with the Western Bulldogs, Sydney Swans and Carlton Football Club, Everitt has a wealth of experience and footy knowledge to share, along with his hunger to play alongside and mentor our young senior playing list. Everitt was taken at pick 11 in the 2006 draft and played 131 games at the highest level, kicking 91 goals in his career across the three clubs. FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Tuesday, 24 October, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 25

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