Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 7th November 2023 by Star Weekly

Established in 1981 as the

proudly serving Melton and Moorabool

7 NOVEMBER, 2023

Birthday

Sale! 399

Australian Chicken Maryland

1699

$ Australian Economy Beef Scotch Fillet Portions

399 kg

Australian Yellow or White Nectarines

Celebrating

52 Years

Jack & Audrey Pioneers 1989

Circa 1996

On Sale Wednesday 8th November until Tuesday 14th November 2023 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

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5 2 nd B i r t h d a y S a l e !

Sunrice White Medium Grain Rice 10kg

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19¢ per 100g

$5.25 per Litre

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Oreo Cookies 128-133g Selected Varieties

599

Reece’s Peanut Butter Cups, Wafer Stick or Nutrageous 42-47g or Hershey’s Cookies ‘N’ Crème 40g

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599

Red Bull Energy Drink 250mL Selected Varieties $10.60 per Litre Single Sell $2.75

25 for

save 90¢

Dentastix Dental Dog Treat 28 Pack 43¢ each

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$15.98 per kg

99 ea

799

Bega Tasty Cheese Block 500g Selected Varieties

KRC Skin On Cocktails or Franks

SAVE $4.25

Bertocchi Aussie Leg Ham

4295

Jameson 6.3% 10x375mL Varieties

Carlsberg 24 Pack

save $10.51

425 ea

Old El Paso Taco Kit 290-520g Selected Varieties

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MULTI-BUY $

115 ea

1399

save $3.51

save $5.25

$ McCain Pub Size Meals 480-500g Selected Varieties

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$1.15 per 100mL

Continental Pasta & Sauce Side Dish 145-170g Selected Varieties

525

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FOR YOUR CHANCE TO SHARE IN OVER $6,000 IN PRIZES $100

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CARD WITH ANY PURCHASE TO ENTER*

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

12584002-KO45-23

9743 4600

Weekly Specials available Wednesday 08/11/23 until Tuesday 14/11/23. 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.

2W MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 November, 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

7 NOVEMBER, 2023

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SIG N U P N O W!

Raise up a hand to help Brookside College students celebrated their graduation from the 2023 Raise program on October 31. Raise is a youth mentoring program through which volunteers create a positive impact on the lives of young people by providing guidance, support and hope. By donating a couple of hours a week, mentors can make a lasting difference in the lives of the next generation, equipping them with the tools to help them navigate life. Raise manager Michelle Tuck said Raise has supported 33 students across three years at Brookside. “Unfortunately, over the three years we have seen a decrease in volunteers for the program,” she said. “Our program can support 15 students from Brookside, however this year we were not able to support this many. “No experience is required to mentor, we support local volunteers through training and provide ongoing weekly support in the form of an on-site program counsellor. Anyone can put their hand up to mentor for our 20 week program.” Brookside College councellor Sandra Pham, assistant principal Karen Jackson, Raise mentor Rohit Sood and Raise councellor Laura Popescu with year 8 students Emily, Maheen, Angel, Ashlee, Kayla and Ruby. (Jacob Pattison) 369815_01

Majdlik elected as mayor By Liam McNally Councillor Kathy Majdlik was elected as the new Melton mayor on November 2. Cr Majdlik is no stranger to the position. She is currently serving her fourth term as Cambridge ward councillor, and is now also serving her fourth term as mayor, having also been mayor in 2012-13, 2015-16 and 2020-21. Amid cheers from the sidelines of the council chamber from her daughter, Cr Majdlik said she was honoured and privileged to be elected mayor for the fourth time. “This is Australia’s fastest-growing

municipality and with that comes challenges and massive opportunity,” she said. “I’m looking forward to grasping those opportunities and working hard to make the City of Melton a community where families want to set up home and thrive. It is the people that live in our city that make our community so great, and inspire me to work tirelessly to help deliver the services and facilities that meet our community’s aspirations. “I am committed to ensuring council continues to work in partnership with the state and federal governments to secure more investment in our community to build on the

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strong investment already underway.” Councillor Steve Abboushi was elected deputy mayor, replacing Cr Julie Shannon. It is Cr Abboushi’s second time in the role having previously served in 2019-20. He said the election was a deep honour and a privilege. “I’m profoundly humbled by your trust and support in granting me this responsibility,” he said. “I’m fully aware of the significant challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in our city. I want to express my sincere gratitude to the residents of the city who have placed their faith in me as councillor in this last term. “Your belief in my ability to serve this

community means the world to me and I promise to continue to work tirelessly in my final 12 months in office.” Cr Majdlik thanked outgoing mayor Lara Carli for her work. Cr Carli thanked fellow councillors for their support, loyalty and trust. “Serving as mayor of Australia’s fastest growing municipality has been an honour and a privilege,” she said. “At times it has been challenging, but it has also been a very rewarding experience and I’m so proud to see us all work together to create a safe, accessible and vibrant community as it continues to grow.”

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Saturday, November 25th 10am - 2pm

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2 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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bid New centres celebrated Funding for Aintree

Melton MP Steve McGhie and former Melton mayor Lara Carli at the Thornhill Park opening. (Provided)

Truganina is aged 4 years and under. The launch follows Thornhill Park’s opening on October 20 by Cr Carli and Melton MP Steve McGhie. The $12.7 million centre boasts four 33-place kindergarten rooms, multi-purpose community spaces, maternal child health suites, a family room, a breastfeeding space and professional consulting and office suites. The facility was funded by $8.4 million from council and $4.3 million from the state government. The project was completed in two stages. Stage one saw kindergarten rooms, outdoor play spaces, car park and associated amenities completed in January 2023 and is already operating. Stage two of the project delivered the multi-purpose community spaces, maternal child health suites, a family room, a breastfeeding space, and additional professional

consulting and office suites. Cr Carli said she was thrilled to celebrate the openings. “With 58 babies being born in the City of Melton each week, building new centres like this is essential to help support our community,” she said. “It is vitally important that families have access to quality early years education that encourages children to flourish in a nurturing environment. “Kindergartens play a vital role in helping young children thrive emotionally and physically and boost learning skills. This facility will do that and allow parents and families to share their experiences and be part of a community that is committed to helping kids thrive. “I’d like to thank the state government for their contribution and working with us on this much-needed project.”

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Melton’s two newest community hubs were officially opened last month. The Mt Atkinson Children’s and Community Centre and Thornhill Park Children’s and Community Centre both celebrated their official openings. On Monday, October 30, the $7.8 million Mount Atkinson centre was officially launched by then-Melton mayor Lara Carli and Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch. The integrated children’s and community hub in features multi-purpose rooms, three and four-year-old funded kindergarten, maternal and child health Services and community space for local programs and services that will address the needs of local children and families. The facility was funded by a $5 million from council, $2.8 million from the state government. About 58 babies are born each week in the Melton, while 11.7 per cent of the population in

Melton council has applied for $2 million in state government funding to fast track a $15 million open space precinct for Aintree. The Aintree Active Open Space Precinct includes a district level playground, public toilets, a dog park, two floodlit soccer fields, a shared path network and a community sports pavilion. The open space precinct forms part of the larger Aintree Community Hub which includes the neighbouring Aintree Children’s Community Centre and Secondary College. Council has $13 million set aside for the project, mostly through developer contributions, and is applying for the last $2 million through the Growing Suburbs Fund. Growing Suburbs is a $20 million state government fund that in 2023 is available for interface councils such as Melton to apply for grants of up to $2 million dollars toward projects in growth suburbs. If the application is successful the project would need to be completed by 2027. Aintree is now home to more than 8100 residents and it is projected to grow by almost 19,000 residents by 2041. Councillor Justine Farrugia said early delivery of this project will play a crucial role in the formation of the relationships and community identity for those new and emerging residents. “The development will provide a safe and welcoming space to meet and form new and lasting social connections with neighbours within walking distance of homes,“ she said. The funding bid follows a September release of an Urban Design Framework for a new major town centre in Aintree that would include a shopping centre about the size of Woodgrove. The state government will announce the funding recipients in December.

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4 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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NEWS

Provider named for Melton TAFE The state government’s promise of delivering a TAFE campus for Melton by 2028 is nearing closer with the announcement of a provider to construct and operate the new facility. Bendigo Kangan Institute was announced as the provider of the $55 million constructionfocused TAFE by Skills and Tafe Minister Gayle Tierney. The government is working with Bendigo Kangan Institute to find a suitable location in Melton for the new campus. Bendigo Kangan Institute chief executive Sally Curtain said the organisation is pleased to partner with the state government to make skills and training more accessible to Melton esidents. “Our experience in the region and in delivering construction skills combined with

our strong industry partnerships means we are well positioned to provide training that will create pathways to real jobs,” she said. “Kangan Institute already serves as the largest provider of vocational education and training to the Melton region, with up to 25 per cent of students at our Broadmeadows campus coming from the area.” With a target opening date of 2028, the campus will accommodate around 600 student enrolments each year. The project will be delivered through the state government’s Building Better TAFE fund, which received a boost of $170 million in this year’s state budget, and will also provide support for a new Bendigo Kangan campus in Sunbury, which is also currently without TAFE-led skills training.

Ms Tierney said the project will ensure people have access to great opportunities close to home as Melton grows. “Bendigo Kangan Institute’s new campus will deliver best practice training in the construction fields, without students having to travel long distances,” she said. “We look forward to working closely with Bendigo Kangan Institute to deliver a fit-for-purpose campus that will meet the skills needs of Victoria’s inner west.” Melton MP Steve McGhie also welcomed the announcement. “We are excited to have more high-quality training opportunities for the residents of Melton, to support even more students on their path to their dream careers,” he said.

Bendigo Kangan Institute chief executive Sally Curtain, deputy chair Hal Swerissen, MP Gayle Tierney, Bendigo Kangan Institute board chair Margaret O’Rourke and board member Rudi Pavani. (Provided)

Have your say on buses Melton residents have been encouraged to share their thoughts on bus services in the area. As part of the Metropolitan Transport Forum’s Bus Appreciation Week, then-Melton mayor Lara Carli and Melton MP Steve McGhie joined residents on a bus ride from Woodgrove Shopping Centre. They called for Melton residents to ride their local bus and complete the MTF’s Better Buses survey to help shape an accessible, frequent and connected bus network for the community. Council has called for a review of the municipality’s bus network to start as soon as possible, with modeling in it’s Moving Melton prospectus showing a cost-neutral reconfiguration of existing routes could double frequency and create new routes for

areas not serviced by buses. Cr Carli said all communities should have easy access to a reliable and frequent bus service that helps residents live, work and play. “We need a comprehensive review of our bus network so that it better meets the needs of our growing community,” she said. “We have done the work already. Our Moving Melton prospectus outlines fully costed options for all parties to consider. “A reconfigured bus network for the City of Melton would provide residents with easy access to frequent buses, and connect them to jobs, services, education and more.” Mr McGhie encouraged people to share their thoughts about the local bus service.

Councillor Lara Carli and Melton MP Steve McGhie trying one of Melton’s bus services. (Provided)

“Melton is one of the fastest growing communities and we need to constantly improve and provide the bus services that

meet the community’s needs,” he said. The survey closes on Sunday, November 12. www.surveymonkey.com/r/B593DLB

ELECTRICAL SAFETY RECALL

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6 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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Plan to change town centre By Liam McNally Melton’s “declining“ town centre will undergo a transformation over the next decade, and council’s draft plan on how it will be done will be put out for community consultation from November 6. According to council the town centre has been in decline for some time due to increased competition from Woodgrove shopping centre and emerging centres such as Cobblebank. In early 2021, council began work on a plan that focuses on differentiation to avoid direct competition by maximising opportunities for outdoor settings, walking and active transport and supporting mixed use development. The plan consists of 10 “key revitalisation moves” re-imagining High Street as the heart of the town centre, strengthening McKenzie Street’s role as a “community spine”, creating an active public realm along Toolern Creek, incentivising small business to activate the public realm, facilitating development of the key strategic sites, supporting diverse housing options in the town centre, supporting community health and wellbeing by providing the right facilities and supporting infrastructure, making it safe and inviting for people to move around the town centre, making it easy for people to use public transport services and enabling the town centre to develop sustainably. Ideas in the draft plan include changing the High Street Cross Section by introducing increased areas for outdoor dining, designated bicycle and pedestrian paths complemented by increased tree canopy and landscaped areas,

Hawke MP Sam Rae and former Melton mayor Lara Carli with Brotherhood of St Laurence representatives. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 367594_01

Twenty years of saving Melton community hall and civic centre. (Damjan Janevski) 260628_06

creating a “Library Lane” between High Street and the Melton Library, and reviewing the function of three diamond parks at at the end of Inze, Musk and Judy courts. Redevelopment is also suggested for the Police Paddock, Council land in Damian Street, Civic Centre site, and Fay Street Reserve. City Futures director Sam Romaszko said community consultation on the draft plan is proposed to occur for six weeks from November 6 to December 8, and will include distribution of a brochure, drop in sessions, social media posts. “The plan is a policy framework designed to reverse the decline in activity and guide future development to support long term viability of the Melton town centre,” she said. The final plan will be brought before council in autumn 2024, and individual projects will be budgeted for, or have funding sought following its adoption.

Saver Plus, Australia’s longest running financial education program, celebrated 20 years of successfully building thousands of lifelong savings habits at the Melton Town Hall on November 1. Established by the Brotherhood of St. Laurence (BSL) and ANZ and supported by The Smith Family and Berry Street, Saver Plus helps lower income Australians to build financial skills and confidence and receive up to $500 matched savings for education costs for themselves or their families. In the Hawke electorate 680 participants have saved $313,522.20 and gained invaluable financial literacy skills. Bacchus Marsh participant Jan said when you don’t have enough money long-term you begin to question the point of saving. “Saver Plus taught me that I can save $500 in 10 months, without having a fulltime job,” he said. The Saver Plus initiative has elevated the financial wellbeing score of participants by an average of 77 per cent to 64 – higher than

the Australia average of 59. BSL executive director Travers McLeod said he’s incredibly proud of the positive difference Saver Plus has made over the past 20 years. “It has become a lifelong resource for improved financial wellbeing and confidence for so many Australians and helped to ease the stress of educational expenses, especially those very daunting back-to-school costs,” he said. “We’re excited about growing the impact of Saver Plus even more in the years to come.” Hawke MP Sam Rae said the federal government’s number one priority remains addressing the cost of living challenge. “That’s why I support Saver Plus, to help locals save money,” he said. “Jan and Gaurav are two of the 680 people in Hawke who’ve saved more than $313,000 thanks to this partnership with the Albanese government.”

How about a tree change to Bacchus Marsh/Ballan: Moorabool Shire? We have a fun, supportive, family friendly environment! Consider the ease of travel to and within Moorabool Shire: less traffic and open green spaces to enjoy. Consider the benefits of a positive, inclusive team that offers flexible workdays, weekends and supportive management. We invite you to call Maternal and Child Health Co-ordinator, Fiona Hunter on 5366 7110 for a chat, and to meet our staff and view our facilities.

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8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

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Melton prepares for Djerriwarrh The City of Melton’s biggest and best family festival is just around the corner. Djerriwarrh Festival is back with a bang on November 11 - and while it might be in a new location, it retains its family-friendly vibes and jam-packed schedule. High Street Melton will come to life with live music, market stalls, food trucks and tonnes of activities to keep the kids and the family entertained. Celebrations kick off this year with the annual Djerriwarrh Festival Street Parade at the slightly later time of 11.30am and run until

9pm when, weather permitting, the festival concludes with a dazzling fireworks display. The world comes to Melton as the city’s multicultural communities showcase their traditional dance and music with a series of interactive and vibrant intercultural performances on the Main Stage. Pet Expo is back and is the perfect place to learn about local wildlife, meet a dingo and make some furry friends, while the Get Active Expo will showcase plenty of ways to get active and enjoy the summer sunshine. The opening hours for the popular market

stalls have been extended this year and will now be open till 9pm – and with more than 80 stalls to visit, you’ll need the extra time. From unique handmade items to homewares and kids clothing, everyone is sure to find something special to take home. There’s also plenty of options to tempt the tastebuds. With more than 20 different vendors specialising in a variety of food and drinks, visitors are in for a gastronomic treat. Iconic Australian band Regurgitator will be the headline act on the main stage in a line-up that will feature Pseudo Echo, FOOLS, Jess

Hitchcock and Lotte Gallagher. Former Melton mayor Lara Carli said Djerriwarrh Festival will be great fun for the whole family and is not to be missed. “With loads of market stalls, food trucks, activities and an exciting live music line-up there will be something for everybody on the day,” she said. “This is a great chance for our diverse community to come together and celebrate everything.”

Farewell to ‘The Barber’ The family of Frank ‘The Barber’ Palermo are inviting anyone who was touched by his life in Melton to gather outside his old barber shop on Friday, November 10 for a final chance to say goodbye. About 50 years ago Mr Palermo opened his barber shop on Exford Road, one of the first in the municipality. His daughter Anna Ortika said he made many great friends during the time he lived and worked in Melton. “I always remember him standing outside the corner of his shop - he loved that corner,” she said. Although the barber shop closed in 2014, and Mr Palermo moved out of Melton in 2018, Ms Ortika said her father never stopped talking about how much he loved the place. “He would always ask his children to drive him to Melton so he could spend time walking around, chatting with his friends and people

he knew,” she said. “Thank you to the Melton community for the friendship and cherished memories you gave my dad over the years.” Mr Palermo passed away on October 29. His funeral will take place on Friday, November 10, and at 8.15am the procession will pass by Mr Palermo’s old barber shop. Ms Ortika said the Palermo family is inviting the community to gather at 1 Exford Road and wave goodbye. “We will be laying Dad to rest and he will be passing by the shop one last time. Anyone who would like to join us and wave him farewell is warmly welcomed,” she said. Liam McNally

Frank ‘The Barber’ Palermo. (Provided)

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7 November 2023

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

New Mayor and Deputy Mayor elected

Mayor’s message and Ward Talk It is an honour and a privilege to be elected as the Mayor of Australia’s fastest-growing municipality for the next 12 months. I’d like to sincerely thank my fellow Councillors for placing their trust in me for the fourth time. I look forward to leading Council alongside new Deputy Mayor Cr Steve Abboushi and working with Councillors, the Executive team and Council staff to represent our community over the coming year. I also want to thank outgoing Mayor, Cr Lara Carli, and Deputy Mayor, Cr Julie Shannon, for their hard work and dedicated service over the past 12 months. This is a vibrant, diverse and rapidly growing city and with that comes challenges - and massive opportunities. I’m looking forward to grasping those opportunities and working tirelessly with Council to deliver the services and facilities that match our community’s aspirations now and into the future. As Mayor, I am committed to continuing our strong partnerships with State and Federal governments to secure investment for the services and infrastructure projects that our community needs to thrive.

This is a wonderful city. Our backyard is full of family-friendly neighbourhoods, beautiful reserves and parks that make this an amazing place to live, work, raise a family and call home. I’m proud to be Mayor of this city again, and I look forward to representing you and Council over the coming year.

This is work that I’m really proud of and will continue to make it my priority going forward.

I’ve been a proud member of Council’s Disability Advisory Committee (DAC) for the last 15 years where I’ve had the opportunity to advocate for people with a disability – a subject that’s very close to my heart.

The report has been widely welcomed for shedding an excruciating light into the mistreatment of people living with a disability.

Some of the highlights that DAC has achieved recently include facilitating the purchase of a Marveloo – a portable accessible toilet and bathroom available at all major Council events; the delivery of nine disability-centred programs during the Lifelong Learning Festival; the development of two new Access Keys for Taylors Hill and Melton Youth Centres and the inclusion of Auslan interpreters at all major Council events.

Recently, the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with a Disability finalised their report setting out 222 recommendations to improve the lives of people living with a disability, their families, and carers.

Councillor Kathy Majdlik has been elected the City of Melton Mayor until November 2024 and Cr Steve Abboushi was elected Deputy Mayor at a council meeting last week. Cr Majdlik brings a wealth of experience to the role, serving her fourth term on Council and will now serve her fourth term as Mayor, having served as Mayor in 2020/21, 2015/16 and 2012/13. To get in touch with your ward councillors, visit melton.vic.gov. au/councillors

Earlier this Council term, I put forward an initiative, that was subsequently supported by Council, to develop a Masterplan for Lake Caroline.

Make memories at Djerriwarrh Festival

Online and in-person consultations took place earlier this year, garnering over 500 community responses. Council will receive the draft masterplan in late November, and we anticipate it will likely go out for public exhibition in the new year.

The biggest family festival in the City of Melton is back on 11 November. The annual Djerriwarrh Festival is in a different location this year but will keep its familyfriendly vibes and jam-packed schedule. High Street Melton will come to life with live music, market stalls, food trucks and tonnes of activities to keep everyone entertained. The opening hours for the popular market stalls have been extended this year and will remain open until 9pm. Australian band Regurgitator will be the headline act on the main stage.

You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.

Have your say on the Melton bus network City of Melton residents can have their say on the local bus network. Residents have been asked to complete a Metropolitan Transport Forum survey to help shape an accessible, frequent and connected bus network in our community. Melton City Council has called for a review of the municipality’s bus network. To complete the survey, visit surveymonkey.com/r/B593DLB

When: Saturday 11 November 2023. Where: High Street, Melton. Between Smith Street & Hannah Watts Park. Time: 11.30am–9pm.

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

Mayor Cr Kathy Majdlik

Deputy Mayor Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Lara Carli

Cr Justine Farrugia

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

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Council spruiks its achievements By Liam McNally Melton council has presented a report outlining its main achievements for the 2022-23 financial year at a council meeting on Monday, October 30. Highlights from the previous year include delivering multiple children’s and community centres, the Melton Lifelong Learning Festival, three sporting strategies, a new football club for Aintree, more than 4000 new citizens welcomed to the municipality and 19,825 community members participating in 393 community programs. There was also advocacy campaigns including the award-winning Moving Melton

transport prospectus, Fix Our Roads, and state and federal submissions that resulted in $10 million committed each from state and federal governments for a business case into upgrading the Western Highway and $14.9 million in state funding to duplicate the Melton Highway between Crown Drive and The Regency in Plumpton. Deputy mayor Julie Shannon said the annual report tells the story of the past 12 months in Australia’s fastest growing municipality. “It gives me enormous pride to reflect on all that council has achieved for our community in the past financial year and how we were able to again deliver the quality services and programs for our residents,” she said.

“I want to thank our residents for their support over the past 12 months and our executive team and their staff for the hard work that they do for the community.” The biggest challenges for council identified in the report were managing the city’s fast growing population, attracting improved allied health and community services, investment in improved public transport and roads, and delivering key community infrastructure at the right time while navigating labour shortages and cost increases. The report also stated there was a 12 per cent drop in maternal child health participation, which it said was due to increased birth rates and staffing shortages, resulting in the service

needing to prioritise certain patients. Councillor Ashleigh Vandenberg asked if council was doing anything to attract more staff and would it consider relocation funding. Melton council City Life director Troy Scoble said council had been working with the municipal association of Victoria to build service capacity. “We’ve undertaken a number of recruitment campaigns, and a communication strategy… I am happy to report that since June 2022 we have increased our nurses from 14 [equivalent full time] to 21, so we are moving in the right direction,” he said. The Annual Report 2022-23 will be sent to the Local Government Minister.

A place to remember The Maddingley Cemetery has created a memorial site to create a physical visiting space for people whose final resting place is not within the grounds. The memorial was created by the Maddingley General Cemetery Trust and is in the form of a wall adorned with plaques dedicated to people whose ashes are scattered elsewhere. The Allan Comrie Wall provides family and friends the opportunity to visit a place where the passing of a loved one is permanently recorded. Maddingley General Cemetery Trust member Rick Dickson said there has been great community interest in the wall since it was converted into a memorial, with eight plaques already placed there. “It is very touching to see the response we get when people understand the concept,” he said. “When your ashes are scattered, there is no

record that you even existed.” Mr Dickson has plaques for family members on the wall, including his son, whose ashes were scattered in Eltham. “I’m 88 years old... driving way over to Eltham is a long way. It’s going to make it easier for me to have them close by, and I’ve got them close to their grandparents, which is another plus,” he said. The Allan Comrie Wall was named in honour of the current Cemetery Trust chairman’s 40 years of voluntary service, and has a plaque with his name too. “Forty years is incredible and he’s still there every day,” Mr Dickson said. “It’s also unusual having your name on a plaque when you’re still around to read it.” For further information on how a plaque can be installed on the Allan Comrie Wall contact the Maddingley Cemetery.

Allan Comrie at the wall named in his honour. (Damjan Janevski) 370634_02

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Christmas trends for a merry festive season in 2023 demand.

As we approach the holiday season in 2023, it’s exciting to take a look at the emerging Christmas trends that are likely to shape the way we celebrate and enjoy this festive time of the year. While Christmas traditions remain timeless, contemporary influences and evolving cultural shifts are continually influencing the way we approach the holiday. Here are some Christmas trends to watch for in 2023: Sustainable Celebrations: Environmental consciousness is a prevailing trend in many aspects of life, and Christmas is no exception. In 2023, expect to see more sustainable Christmas decorations, eco-friendly gift wrapping, and a focus on reducing waste. Many people are choosing to invest in reusable or recyclable holiday decor and opting for thoughtful, meaningful gifts over excessive consumption.

Inclusive Celebrations: As society becomes more diverse and inclusive, people are making a concerted effort to ensure that Christmas celebrations are welcoming to everyone. This means incorporating more diverse and representative decorations, greetings, and activities that honor various cultural backgrounds and beliefs. Culinary Adventures: Food has always been a central element of Christmas celebrations, but in 2023, expect to see more culinary experimentation. People are exploring international flavors and incorporating new recipes into their festive meals. Outdoor Celebrations: Outdoor Christmas celebrations are on the rise, with more people investing in outdoor lighting, fire pits, and cozy seating areas to enjoy the festive season in the fresh air. It’s an excellent way to create a magical, winter wonderland atmosphere.

Tech-Infused Decorations: With the growing popularity of smart home devices and tech integration, Christmas decorations are getting a high-tech makeover. You can control your Christmas lights, music, and even themed projections through smartphone apps and voice assistants, creating a more immersive and customisable experience.

Virtual Celebrations: The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of virtual gatherings, and this trend is likely to continue into 2023, especially for those with loved ones far away. People will celebrate Christmas through video

calls, sharing meals, opening presents, and even decorating the tree together. Christmas Markets and Local Shopping: Support for local artisans and small businesses is on the rise. Christmas markets and local craft fairs are becoming more popular, providing unique, handmade gifts, and a festive atmosphere. This trend aligns with the desire for authenticity and reducing mass-produced, commercial products. Experiential Gifts: Instead of traditional

material gifts, many are shifting towards experiential presents, such as cooking classes, concert tickets, or weekend getaways. This trend emphasises creating memorable moments and shared experiences over material possessions. Personalised and DIY Decor: Personalised ornaments, stockings, and other decorations are becoming a popular choice, allowing people to add a unique touch to their holiday ambiance. DIY crafts, from handmade wreaths to custom-made table centerpieces, are also in

In 2023, Christmas trends are evolving to reflect a changing world, where sustainability, technology, and personalisation play pivotal roles. While traditions and the spirit of togetherness remain at the heart of Christmas, these trends offer new ways to make the holiday season even more special and meaningful.

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Alternative Christmas Trees: While traditional evergreen trees will always have a special place in our hearts, many are opting for alternative Christmas tree designs in 2023. These may include wall-mounted trees, potted plants, or even artistic, unconventional tree shapes that reflect personal style and creativity.

Mental Health Awareness: In recognition of the stresses that can accompany the holiday season, there’s a growing emphasis on mental health and self-care. Many are making a conscious effort to simplify their celebrations, manage expectations, and prioritise well-being during this busy time of the year.

Tuesday, 7 November, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13

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Freen waste disposal Residents can drop off green and garden waste for free at the Melton Recycling Facility, from November 1 until December 31. Anyone wanting to take advantage of the service must present identification and proof of residency, on arrival. Commercial operators and trucks will not be allowed. Mixed loads will also not be permitted. Limbs and branches must be smaller than 30cm in diameter.

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Published by MMP Star Pty Ltd ACN 168 220 399 Head Office Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas All material is copyright to MMP Star Pty Ltd. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Paul Thomas. All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit starweekly.com.au

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Community champions This International Men’s Day (IMD), Rotary Caroline Springs is taking time to recognise community champions, On November 17, two days before IMD, Rotary members are hosting a fundraising dinner at The Club, Caroline Springs. Local organisations will have the opportunity to nominate people within their ranks and acknowledge their contribution and achievements. Caroline Springs Rotarian Ronald Moss said the dinner will recognise the many champions within Caroline Springs and surroundings suburbs and feature a talk from John Toomey. “All volunteer organisations that give back to our community are champions. No matter how small, we recognise them all,“ he said. The awards dinner will focus on the theme ‘Healthy Men, Healthy World’, in line with the Australian Men’s Health Forum for International Men’s Day. According to the IMD website, a key aim is

to highlight some of the social issues that men and boys face, including the surprising fact that 50 Australian men a day are dying from preventable causes before they reach the age of 75. Australia is one of the healthiest and wealthiest countries in the world and yet men born in Australia die an average of seven years younger than women born in Australia. Sometimes referred to as the “gender health gap”, this disparity in health outcomes includes the fact that men and boys account for three in four suicides, four in five heart disease deaths under 75, three in four alcohol-related deaths, three in four road deaths, 96 per cent of workplace deaths and 70 per cent of deaths in young people aged 15 to 34. The net proceedings from the event will be donated to a charity working for the betterment of community health. For details call Mr Moss on 0403 821 959 or go to https://www.trybooking.com/CMTAF

The Lions Club of Bacchus Marsh have announced that the Skin Check van will be visiting Bacchus Marsh on November 25 and 26 at the Village Green, Main Street. The van will provide a free skin checking service to local people and will be operated by fully trained, certificated and professionally supervised volunteers. Early detection of skin lesions potentially saves lives, so this visit will be a timely support and reminder to local people of the need to take care of their skin. Following the skin check, visitors will be issued with a referral to their GP if there are any suspect spots or lesions. The unit is not a medical clinic, so diagnosis or treatment requirements are not discussed. To book contact Lions Bookings on 0434 702 695.

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No horsing around in quarantine Twenty-four horses, many of them from overseas, compete in the iconic Melbourne Cup on the first Tuesday in November. The first stop in the lead up to the great race for international competitors is the Werribee International Horse Centre as Jennifer Pittorino discovered.

wned and operated by Racing Victoria, the Werribee International Horse Centre (WIHC) is the only approved Post-Arrival Quarantine (PAQ) facility in Melbourne where horses can remain in full training during the Spring Racing Carnival. Racing Victoria general manager of international and racing operations Paul Bloodworth said the multi-million dollar horses arrive in two shipments at the end of September and beginning of October. “One shipment arrived on Grand Final Day, which was the 30th of September,” he said. “This year was slightly different as we had a horse from Hong Kong, and a horse from England arrive on September 16. “One of those was Romantic Warrior, one of the best horses in the world, as he wanted to have a lead up race to the Cox Plate.” Paul said the two shipments enable the horses to either run in the Caulfield Cup and/ or the Melbourne Cup. Once the horses arrive from overseas, Paul said there is a strict period in which the horses need to remain in quarantine. “They need to do two weeks’ export in their country of origin,“ he explained. “We have a number of approved pre-export quarantine facilities around the world in Europe, Japan and in Hong Kong, which allows us to do that there.” In addition to quarantining overseas, when the horses arrive in Australia they then have to complete a further two weeks post arrival quarantine before they’re released from the strict bio security measures that are in place for four weeks. This year Racing Victoria has welcomed horses from England, Ireland, France, Hong Kong and Japan. “We have a very broad spectrum of countries around the world,” said Paul. “As long as the country where they’re coming from is an approved country by our government, they can come to Melbourne. “They have to have an approved status by the federal government to allow export from their country to Australia.” As many countries have racing industries, Paul and his team work with animals from across the globe. “In my role I am responsible for enticing trainers and owners to bring their horses to Melbourne for the spring carnival,” he said. “I travel to places like Japan and Europe throughout the year meeting with owners and trainers to discuss bringing their horses to Melbourne for the races.” Paul has worked for Racing Victoria for 16 years, and in his current role since 2018. “That’s what I do throughout the year which ultimately ends up with courses arriving here.”

Vauban training. (Supplied)

‘‘

It is quite expensive for owners and trainers to commit to coming to Australia, so we are always very pleased that they’re willing to take that plunge and travel here.

’’

- Paul Bloodworth To prepare for his busy season of recruiting, Paul watches as many international races as he can. “I keep long lists of high quality horses that race around the world. “It’s mostly about building the relationships with the trainers and the owners of these horses. That way when there is a horse that is showing potential to be competitive in the races, you are able to reach out to them.” Paul said most trainers are return visitors who have been to Melbourne in previous years and are happy to come back. “Once I have established relationships with trainers they come to us with which horses they think are suitable, rather than me asking them. “It is all about maintaining contact with the trainers throughout the year, by going and seeing them around the middle of the year to start discussing plans for later in the year.” In addition to his main role recruiting horses, at the Werribee facility Paul and his team ensure the connections of each horse have a smooth, enjoyable time in Melbourne. “My role here is to make sure all the staff and all the trainers and all the owners are happy with how things are going,” he said. “We help them with logistics around flights and accommodation, race day events and more.” The strict quarantine measures enforced at Werribee ensure Australia’s biosecurity is protected.

Breakup arriving at the Werribee International Horse Centre.

The horses can’t leave the facility at all for two weeks and all their care, including showing, is done within the compound in which they live. This ensures no exotic diseases escape and infect animals in the wider community. The horses are also required to undergo multiple nasal swabs across the first two weeks. “These are sent off to laboratories for testing, to establish that they don’t have any exotic disease,“ said Paul. “It’s only when all those swabs are back and clear that none of the horses have any exotic diseases, that the horses are released from post arrival quarantine.” When the horses come out of quarantine they are able to use both the 1700 metre circumference grass track and the 1600 metre inside sand fibre track at Werribee. “They have access to those every day, it’s up to the individual horses or individual trainers how they use the facilities,” said Paul. “Most horses use a mixture of both tracks, they need to move between them depending on the speed of the work that they’re looking to conduct.” Like any other training centre, the horses have designated slots across the three compounds, all of which are in operation at the moment. The three compounds comprise the Newminster compound housing 16 horses across three barns, the Vintage Crop which can

house eight horses across two barns and the American compound which can house eight horses in one large barn. The three compounds operate independently from each other, allowing flexibility around arrivals from different regions without disrupting the quarantine periods of horses in other compounds. “How we train horses is how horses are trained all over the world, they exercise each day to attain a level of fitness which will see them be able to compete in the races. “It is quite expensive for owners and trainers to commit to coming to Australia, so we are always very pleased that they’re willing to take that plunge and travel here. In addition to having a great reputation, Paul said the prize money on offer throughout the Spring Racing Carnival is also a driving factor for many trainers and owners. “Our prize money is fantastic in Melbourne and significantly better than a lot of other jurisdictions in the world,“ he said. “The Melbourne Cup is worth $8 million total prize money, the first prize is worth $4 million, while the Caulfield Cup and Cox Plate are worth $5 million in prize money, and $3 million for each prize. “It is very lucrative and well worth their time certainly. “Our races are very prestigious, the Melbourne Cup is iconic in Australia and around the world.”

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Funding to tackle road trauma Seven Melton and Moorabool football clubs are among the 251 Victorian clubs that will share in more than $600,000 for their efforts in campaigning to eliminate road trauma in their communities. The state government, Transport Accident Commission (TAC) and AFL Victoria have announced this year’s recipients of the TAC Club Rewards program. Recipients receive rewards of up to $10,000 through the program, that encourages clubs to engage with players, members and their communities on key road safety issues and promote safe behaviours, with the dangers of distracted driving a key focus of this year’s campaign. Successful clubs are able to use the money for a range of initiatives including education programs, club transport initiatives, new equipment and uniforms and facility upgrades and improvements. Burnside Heights Football Club received $1800 through this years grant, which

club president Justin Peagram said will go towards a road safety sign on the oval, junior equipment, and TAC branded training tops. “It’s important for local clubs, with costs going up it all helps, and what the TAC has done over the last couple of years with helping community clubs really helps, we certainly appreciate it,” he said. The other local recipients were Ballan Football and Netball Club, Buninyong Football Netball Club, Darley Junior Football Netball Club, Hillside Football Club, Melton Junior Football Netball Club and Melton South Football Netball Club. TAC chief executive Tracey Slatter said road trauma has a significant ripple effect on a community. “There’s no denying the power of peer-to-peer support and education at sporting club level – these clubs should be proud of their efforts to create a culture that prioritises road safety,” she said.

Justin Peagram. (Damjan Janevski) 370614_01

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

Chatty Cafe Melton Are you feeling lonely, isolated or just wanting to make some new friends? If so, Chatty Cafe is for you. The group meets on Friday mornings at 10am, join us for a delicious free coffee from Latin Foods and Wines, 10 Wallace Square, Melton. The meeting point is not huge so there’s a possibility that you may need to sit in the outdoor area. If you need more information you can contact Chatty Cafe Melton on Facebook.

Women’s Support Group Women’s Support Group Melton is for any women who feel they would like to attend a peer support group which is relaxed, friendly and non-judgemental. The group meets weekly at 1pm on Mondays (except for public holidays) at Djerriwarrh Neighbourhood House, 239 Station Road, Melton. We can discuss most subjects that may be of help. Find out more on Facebook at Women’s Support Group Melton.

Darley Community Art Garden Learn how to propagate plants at Darley Community Art Garden on Saturday, November 18, from 1.30pm to 2.30pm. Attendees will learn the different methods of propagating including layering, dividing, and taking different types of cuttings. A must-have skill for all keen gardeners, bring along your own secateurs to practice! $15. ■ https://www.darleycommunityartgarden. org/

Beauty course Discover a range of beauty therapies and techniques in Melton South Community Centre’s four-week pre-accredited Intro to Beauty course. Learn about makeup application, manicure styles, body waxing and much more and take materials home with you, along with a certificate that can help you into further study or employment. $120 or $90 concession. For information and enrolments, call the centre. ■ 9747 8576

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,

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is from Whittlesea council’s Diwali festival. Vaishnari (9) and Danyata (8). (Damjan Janevski) 369882_01

November. 25 Call the centre for information including times and prices, or to enrol. ■ 9747 8576

or $105 concession. For information and enrolments, call the centre. ■ 9747 8576

Herbal foot bath workshop Cake decorating course Enhance your existing cake decorating skills in Melton South Community Centre’s three-week Intermediate Cake Decorating Course. 10am to 12.30pm, November 14 to 28. Practice on cupcakes and discover piping techniques, fondant skills and sugar craft that can take your baking to the next level. $110

18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

Discover a new level of relaxation in Melton South Community Centre’s two-hour Herbal Foot Bath Workshop. Learn about what makes a great natural foot bath, then make five jars of herbal mixture to take home with you. 9.30am to 11.30am, November 18. $60 or $55 concession. For information and enrolments, call the centre. ■ 9747 8576

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

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

2 9

1 8 6

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

9 6 2 8 5 1

7 6 3 2 1

ACROSS

DOWN

Withdraws (7) Questions (7) Exaggerated statements (9) Cold meat dish served in a jellied mould (5) Sudden gust of wind (6) Actress, – Jolie (8) College (6) Yield (4) Biblical garden (4) Art of dwarfing shrubs or trees (6) Used to hold a letter (8) Part of former Yugoslavia; capital Sarajevo (6) Basic food made with water, flour and yeast (5) Belonging to a thing by its very nature (9) Someone who has stopped working for a living (7) Coach (7)

1 5 9 10 11 12 14 15 19 20 24 25 27 28 29 30

No. 158

Division (6) Mediterranean Island nation (6) Neglected (8) Frozen flakes (4) Australian state (10) Rubber (6) Broken (8) Athenian philosopher (8) Wooden spoon, proverbially (5,5) Recall (8) With the most mass (8) Camellia (8) Engineless aircraft (6) Simultaneous performance of action, speech or song (6) Shallow dish to hold a cup (6) Sport tidbit (abbr) (4)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 13 16 17 18 21 22 23 26

DECODER

No. 158

1 3

4 6 2 3 8 9 1

1 8

4 7

QUICK CROSSWORD

5 3 7 1 5 hard

8 9

10 11 12 13

B 18

AGILE AGREE ALLEY AROMA BELIE BUYER CAGEY CHASE CHIEF CIVIC COPES DIMES DRIFT EERIE ERROR EVERY FIRES GONER GRANT GUILT HEADS HOARD

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

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

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

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: 8 words: Good 12 words: Very good

E U

4 LETTERS DAUB DREW ERAS FEAT NICK ROSE SAGS SEES SITS STAG TOSS TRAP TUBS WEST

No. 158 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

What is the national dish of Spain, consisting of yellow rice cooked with saffron, chicken and seafood? Who is the French impressionist painter famous for his water lilies series?

What was the theme song for TV show The Golden Girls?

In which country is the world’s highest waterfall, Angel Falls, located?

Who invented Kevlar, used to make bulletproof armour?

Which letter represents the speed of light in physics?

T T A R

C K

A P E D D O R E O L E S

QUICK QUIZ

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

N O T

WHEEL WIDOW WIDTH YELPS

PARTNER SUNDIAL TERSEST

6 LETTERS CAPERS PEDDLE STAYED WRITES

8 LETTERS DEMUREST DEPRAVES INITIATE OMELETTE

7 LETTERS COUPONS DAMSELS OPOSSUM

10-11-23

ICIER IMAGE INANE KILTS OGLED ORBIT PAVED PEARL SASSY SCENE SNOWS SNUFF SPICE STEER STYLE SURER TIGHT TSARS UNITY UNTIE VERGE WATTS

cell, cello, CELLULOSE, close, clue, clues, cole, coleus, coulee, cues, else, lose, louse, sell, sloe, slue, sole

L O

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

D R

No. 158

' 5 , ) 7

5 LETTERS ABODE ABOVE

P D

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

17 words: Excellent

hard

5x5

medium

3 LETTERS ACE AGE ALE BOA CHI DEN DIM EEL EGG EWE GNU ITS NET NIL NIP ODE OFF ONE ORE ROD SEE TOP TOY USE

P O H E G M N C V Y R U T

easy

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

K Q X S L D F I W J A B Z

WORDFIT

Who wrote The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy?

Which city in Japan is known as the 'City of Ten Thousand Shrines'?

Which marine mammal is known for its long, spiral tusk?

10 Heath Ledger (pictured) was posthumously awarded an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in which film? ANSWERS: 1. Paella 2. Claude Monet 3. Thank You for Being a Friend 4. Venezuela 5. Stephanie Kwolek 6. c 7. Douglas Adams 8. Kyoto 9. Narwhal 10. The Dark Knight

No. 158

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

SUDOKU

Tuesday, 7 November, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 19

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MyMedicare changes explained By Christoper Carter, CEO of North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network

And if you do register, you will still be able to see other GPs and other clinics if you need to. You will never be turned away because you are registered with a different practice. Registered or not, your medical data remains private. And, registered or not, conversations between you and any GP will remain confidential. You can sign up to MyMedicare if you have a Medicare card or a Department of Veterans’ Affairs Veteran Card. There are three ways to

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Patients have been able to register for MyMedicare since October this year and general practices have been able to sign up for a few months now. It’s worth noting, though, that not all practices have done this yet, so if you go to register you might end up just putting your name down – and someone will be in touch later. That’s fine. MyMedicare is going to end up making a big improvement to our health system – but it’s a gradual process. There’s no hurry. And that’s a good thing.

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get the ball rolling. You can do it yourself using your Medicare online account or the Medicare app on your phone. The GP or practice you nominate will then finish it off. Or you can do it in reverse and ask your doctor to start the process the next time you visit. You’ll get a message to finalise it using your Medicare account. Finally, your general practice will have a stock of paper forms and you can do the whole thing the old-fashioned way.

12321532-HM36-16

Over the past few months, you might have heard about something called MyMedicare. And if you haven’t, don’t worry, because you’ll likely hear a lot about it as we roll into 2024. So, what is it, and do you need to get involved with it? MyMedicare – and, no, there isn’t a space between the two words – is a nationwide Australian government project aimed at encouraging deeper relationships between people and their doctors. Technically, it’s known as a “voluntary patient registration model”. It encourages people to link up with single GP (or general practice) to ensure that both parties have a deep and detailed understanding of each other. This will lead to better care, because the chosen doctor will have a good understanding of the patient’s situation, medical history and challenges. Under the new model, too, GPs are able to provide extra bulk-billed services, such as longer telehealth consultations, to registered patients, pushing out-of-pocket costs lower. More and more bulk-billed extra services will become available as MyMedicare develops, with these planned to roll out during the next couple of years. All up, MyMedicare is a very good idea, and something experts have been suggesting for a long time. It’s important, though, to understand what it isn’t, as much as what it is. The first thing to remember is that registration isn’t compulsory. It is entirely up to you. And if you choose not to register with a particular doctor or practice you will still be able to go there for treatment and support. That will never change.

Tuesday, 7 November, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 21

MOTORING

Charm offensive from Cherokee By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring Who’d have thought it? After years of mixing it with off-road heavy hitters the Jeep Grand Cherokee has taken on a certain charm, with its latest version of the Overland making a play to join the SUV aristocracy. With its new-found power to please and attract, the Aussie Cherokee five-seater new order is represented by three variants – Night Eagle at $77,950, Limited ($83,950) and Overland, starting at $98,450, all before on-road costs. All are powered by a single petrol V6 engine. The opening pair come with single-speed all-wheel drive, with low range and coil springs, while the Overland (on test here) has a low range transfer case and height adjustable air suspension. In comparison, the previous Cherokee roster included high spec Summit and S-Overland, with a 3-litre turbo-diesel V6, set back buyers around $85,000, plus on-roads, $10,000 under the petrol new chum. Two cost options now include a Luxury Tech Group ($4500) and Off Road Group ($2750), pushing the price over $100,000. The test vehicle boasted the luxury pack. As far as customer care is concerned, the so-called ‘Jeep Wave Commitment’ includes capped servicing, five-year/100,000km warranty and lifetime roadside assistance, providing the regular service schedule at a Jeep dealer is adhered to. STYLING Following on from its big brother Grand Cherokee L the WL Grand Cherokee is shorter by around 300 mm of overall length and 128 mm of wheelbase, and in looks is more SUV than Jeep 4x4. With this modern, upmarket move, however, the newbie refuses to let go completely of its Jeep roots with the company’s trademark seven-slot radiator grille up front. Twin-pane panoramic sunroof and 20-inch alloy wheels add appeal both inside and out. INTERIOR With the trimmed body comes five seats instead of seven, with top-notch Nappa leather cladding, a big twin-pane sunroof opening up the cabin, and LED ambient lighting to set the tone at night. There’s more room (1067 litres to the roof), too, to accommodate the better class of cargo (luggage). This is upped to 2005 litres with the rear seat backs folded. The space includes a 12V power outlet, four tie-down points, and a full-size spare wheel nestled under the floor. As mentioned above, the test vehicle was also blessed with $4500 worth of the Luxury Tech Group extras, including front seats that are 12-way power adjustable, with memory and massage function, there’s four-zone climate control and second-row ventilated outboard seats and window shades. Up front digital rear-view mirror is augmented by a wireless charging pad.

The Grand Cherokee has trimmed down and smartened up to take on some of the stiffest competition in its segment. (supplied)

INFOTAINMENT A 10.5-inch screen with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, plus a nine-speaker Alpine sound system and satellite navigation, are among standard Overland features. Jeepish by nature, small buttons on the back of the steering wheel, once discovered, are handy for digital radio control, mini paddle gear-shifters there not so convenient. Power access comes via twin USB-A and USB-C points, as well as a 12V outlet and wireless charging pad up front. The second row includes air vents and power outlets. Jeep’s Uconnect Services, via a paired smartphone, allows users remotely to lock and unlock the vehicle, send navigation destinations to the car, and check vehicle status for things like fuel level, tyre pressure, along with alerts for possible break-ins. ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS Unlike the previous Grand Cherokees – with optional turbo-diesel or V8 power - the new WL range is limited to a single 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine producing 210 kW and 344 Nm, mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission. SAFETY The five-seat petrol models have earned a

22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

four-star ANCAP rating, as opposed to the seven-seater’s five-star, due to a problem with the performance of the rear seat belts. Standard systems include active emergency braking and pedestrian/cyclist detection, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning with active lane keeping, advanced brake assist, front and rear parking sensors and 360-degree camera view. A word about lane departure warning: there seems to be little consistency in its workings, the beeps come thick and fast or not at all, under pretty much identical driving conditions. Artificial intelligence, indeed. DRIVING The accelerator pedal needs some concentrated attention, with the car being a bit skittish from the get-go, especially on inclines with ragged surfaces. Conversely, with peak torque not coming up until 4000rpm, it’s not surprising the new Grand Cherokee Overland feels short on performance on the bitumen. On road, the Grand Cherokee Overland is said to be capable of fuel consumption of 9.9 litres per 100km on the combined urban/ highway cycle. The Tester averaged more than 13 litres per 100km around town and 7.6 on a

motorway dash. Off road, the SUV takes advantage of Jeep’s Quadra-Trac 2 Active 4x4 System with Selec-Terrain, low-range transfer case and Quadra Lift air suspension. For an extra $2750 the Off Road Group adds 230 mm rear axle, electronic limited-slip differential, Trail Rated badge, 265/60 R18 Goodyear all-terrain tyres, 18-inch polished/ painted alloy wheels, fuel tank/transfer case / front suspension skid plate, which is good enough to earn the company’s trail rating won over the Rubicon Trail in Nevada, one of the most testing off-road challenges in the US. SUMMARY The new Grand Cherokee Overland won’t be every rusted-on Jeep fan’s favourite, but could attract the attention of a more discerning soft-road adventurer. RATINGS n Looks: 8/10 n Performance: 6/10 n Safety: 7/10 n Thirst: 5/10 n Practicality: 8/10 n Comfort: 7/10 n Tech: 8/10 n Value: 5/10

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SPORT

Salary cap to come into play One local football league is adopting a salary cap for its women’s competitions. On Tuesday the Essendon District Football League announced it will be formally adopting a women’s salary cap program commencing in 2024 following a two-year trial period. Within the trial all three of the women’s divisions had a different salary cap, the premier division cap is set to rise for 2024, however both division 1 and 2 will remain the same.. EDFL chief executive Andrew Johnston said this announcement was about making the league a progressive one. “We want to see ourselves as a progressive league,” Johnstone said. “We think it’s a great step forward to reward the female side of football. “It’s been around for a significant amount of years and probably hasn’t got the rewards that it deserves. “So it’s a step in the right direction. “We’ve had the trial in place for two years now, and we’ve found that females transferring from club to club has reduced.” For the 2024 season there is set to be another influx of women’s teams entering or returning to the EDFL with Craigieburn, Roxburgh Park, Keilor Park returning to the field. “There’s no pressure on clubs to pay their players,” Johnstone said. “We just want to reward all the hard work that clubs do and the females do trying to get them up. “They can use the salary cap to entice

females to come to the club, stay at the club, get new players from other areas.” A full copy of the statement released by the league is below. “The EDFL and its clubs are committed to the growth and prosperity of women’s football and conducted this trial in the best interests of growing the game, in particular for those clubs that have a limited junior base in under-age girls. Feedback from the clubs indicated there was very strong support for the concept of having a female cap that is completely separate from the men’s cap to support the rapid progression of women’s footy in our league. Data has also shown that transfer rates have reduced and stabilised from 2019 to 2023 indicating a higher retention rate of players in women’s programs since the commencement of the trial. The adopting of the salary cap does not mean clubs are obliged to make any payment to female players. Those that do will come under the same rules and regulations as per AFL Victoria Community Club Sustainability - Guidelines for Player Payment Rules.” Harper Sercombe

Shannon Mcferran (Jacob Pattison)351740_02

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Which AFL coach was recently praised for saving a man’s life in Bali? 2. Who is the current topranked UFC athlete? 3. In the span of 12 months, what are the three clubs Brodie Grundy has played at? 4. Which two Matildas players scored hat tricks in their Olympic qualifier against the Philippines?

5. And by how many points did they win that game? 6. Thanasi Kokkinakis is from which Australian state? 7. Which soccer team is older, Manchester City or Manchester United? 8. Which Wallabies coach recently resigned? 9. Is the Rolex Paris Masters tennis tournament played on a hard court or clay court? 10. Which former hurdler and Commonwealth Games gold medallist is competing on the current season of The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition?

16. Michael Prior recently stepped down as the head coach of which AFLW team? 17. Australian Chelsea Gubecka was recently announced as the country’s first 2024 Olympics squad member in which sport? 18. What is the name of the racket or paddle sport beginning with P that uses a hard plastic ball? 19. Which two teams played off in the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final?

12. Which women’s national team was once known as the Southern Stars?

20. Which A-League Women’s team made a return to the competition this year after a 13-year absence?

13. The Melbourne Mavericks are a new team that will compete in which sporting league in 2024?

Matildas

15. And which state does Maxwell represent in domestic cricket?

11. Australian basketballer Josh Green plays for which NBA team?

Daniel Ricciardo

23. In what position did Daniel Ricciardo qualify for the 2023 Mexico City Grand Prix?

28. Former sports agent Ricky Nixon played for which three VFL/AFL clubs?

24. And in what positions did Daniel Ricciardo and Oscar Piastri finish the 2023 Mexico City Grand Prix?

29. Which CameroonianFrench mixed martial artist and boxer did Tyson Fury defeat in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia?

25. Which jockey won the 2015 Melbourne Cup riding Prince of Penzance?

21. Which horse won the 2023 Cox Plate?

26. Which national teams did the Matildas play in their three Asian Olympic qualifiers in Perth?

22. Former Perth Wildcats head coach Trevor Gleeson served as an assistant coach for which NBA team?

27. Which Australian basketballer was selected with first overall pick in the 2023 NBA G League Draft?

30. Tennis professional Jenson Brooksby represents which country?

1. Simon Goodwin 2. Jon Jones 3. Collingwood, Melbourne and Sydney Swans 4. Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord 5. Eight 6. South Australia 7. United (Formed in 1878 vs City in 1880) 8. Eddie Jones 9. Hard court 10. Jana Pittman 11. Dallas Mavericks 12. Australian women’s cricket team 13. Super Netball 14. 40 15. Victoria 16. West Coast 17. Swimming 18. Pickleball 19. New Zealand and South Africa 20. Central Coast Mariners 21. Romantic Warrior 22. Toronto Raptors 23. Fourth 24. Seventh and eighth 25. Michelle Payne 26. Iran, Philippines and Chinese Taipei 27. Jack White 28. Carlton, St Kilda and Hawthorn 29. Francis Ngannou 30. The US

1011

14. How many balls did it take Glenn Maxwell to reach 100 in Australia’s ICC World Cup match against the Netherlands?

Tuesday, 7 November, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Cricket from around the grounds Star Weekly photographers Jacob Pattison and Ljubica Vrankovic have travelled around the grounds to catch the best cricket action to kick off the summer. They were at the Gisborne & District Cricket Association match when Diggers Rest played Woodend and were also on hand to capture Deer Park’s clash with Keilor in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association.

Diggers Rest’s Tristan Krizanic (Ljubica Vrankovic)

(Ljubica Vrankovic)

Dean Russ (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Deer Park’s new recruit Dean Russ (Ljubica Vrankovic) 24 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 7 November, 2023

Mohammed Alfar from Deer Park (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Diggers Rest’s Adam McDonald (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Mohammed Alfar from Deer Park (Ljubica Vrankovic)

SPORT Young Burras up for the challenge It’s been a tough start to the Gisborne and District Cricket Association season for the young Diggers Rest Bulla outfit. While the Burras are winless from their first four matches, they have been close in three of the match ups. “We’re a young side, still trying to find where we fit in, but as soon as we find that out I reckon we’ll start winning some games,” playing coach Darren Quarrell said. “We’ve had some injuries as well.” One of the main injuries to the Burras starting XI came to Quarrell, doing his hamstring which saw him miss both round three and four, however, made his return to bowling over the weekend against Romsey. “It will be good to get back on,” he said before the match. “It’s been pretty frustrating, on the sidelines going ‘I could have probably go this bloke out here’.

“But after not playing for five years, you sort of expect something like this.” The Burras came as close as they have been to a victory this season last weekend against Rupertswood. “The last game was a close one,” Quarrell said. “A few of the guys stepped up and made some runs. “Little Rodg [Daniel Rodger] got a four-fa which was pretty good to start the season and get a few wickets. “He’s getting really, really, really better with his bowling from when I last saw him, he’s really improved, so he’s probably the one to watch this season, on the bowling side.” Quarrell said to improve the team’s performance he is hoping for some more runs from his top order. “If our openers, or top four gets a decent start we’ll start getting some better scores, and

be more competitive,” he said. “We’ve got the bowling attack. “We’re just trying to find our lineup for the batting to see who will click being an opener or a middle order batsman. “Because they pretty much didn’t get a sniff last year to know what the actual competition was, being in the Johnstone Shield last year. “So it’s a huge, huge step for them. “But as I keep telling them, it’s a good learning curve for them to know what they’re up against.” The Burras played the undefeated Romsey over the weekend, in what was set to be a tough match. Speaking before the game Quarrell said he knew the key to making the match competitive. “If we get Chris Burkett and Ben Way cheap they may struggle,” he said. Adam McDonald (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Beall returns to United Reigning A-League women goalkeeper of the year Hillary Beall will look to go one better with Western United, making her return on loan from National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club Racing Louisville FC. The American was a revelation for Western United in its debut season in the A-League, keeping seven clean sheets to help United to second place on the table and an appearance in the grand final. One of the team’s vice captains last season, Beall received a list of accolades over the course of the campaign A-League player of the month in January and February, A-League save of the year and the Western United player of the season, on top of the league’s best goalkeeper honours. Set for her return to the Green and Black, Beall said she was itching to get back and tend to unfinished business with her teammates. “It was an incredible season we had in our first year. We fell short twice of some hardware, so I think that is definitely something I am coming back for, to win a championship,” she said. “I really enjoyed my time at Western so I am really grateful the club is bringing me back in with the girls. “Obviously the main goal is to win a championship. Coming back though, I now have two years as a pro under my belt and I have found myself and my confidence, so I will bring that to the group.” Western United general manager of soccer Mal Impiombato said Beall’s return was an indicator of United’s growing intent to be competitive and successful in the A-League. “Hillary was the best goalkeeper in the competition last season and we are delighted to have her return and be a key part of our roster again,” he said. “Her accolades and awards spoke to the quality she brought on the pitch and it was important for us to bring that back into our squad as we continue to aim high in the Liberty A-League.” In other Western United news Young Matilda Avaani Prakash will realise her enormous potential at Western United, signing her first professional contract in the A-League Women. At 16 years of age, Prakash has a remarkable resume having represented Australia at Under-17 and under-20 level while also training as part of the Future Matildas program this year. In 2022, she was part of the Junior Matildas side that won the Australian Football Federation Women’s Championship, playing alongside Western United defender Silver Bell Morris in that team.

Cup challenge

Hillary Beall. (Joe Mastroianni). 309000_21

Reaching a long-term goal in signing her first professional contract, Prakash said she is overjoyed to sign for Western United and is anxious to get started in the A-League. “I am very grateful to Western United and can’t wait to play. I have been working very hard toward this for a number of years now,”

she said. “I am super excited and honoured to play alongside the talented players in the team and be guided by Mark. This is only the beginning of my professional football career, and I aim to bring finesse to Australian football and play a game that players and fans both enjoy.”

Western United academy young gun Luka Coveny is set for a memorable moment after being selected in the New Zealand squad for the upcoming FIFA under 17 World Cup held in Indonesia. The talented centre-back has developed significantly since joining United’s Academy in 2023, becoming a mainstay in the heart of defence for the under 21’s side. Coached by his father Vaughan, Luka Coveny will hope to continue following in his footsteps with the Kiwi icon having made 64 appearances and scored 30 goals for the All Whites. A tall and physically dominant defender, Coveny excels in aerial duels and one-on-one defending while also demonstrating a strong ball-playing ability to help his side build up from the back. Western United academy director Anthony Frost said Coveny’s work ethic and improvement was reflected in this landmark moment in his young career. “We are thrilled for Luka to be given this opportunity and immensely proud of the work that he has put in to earn this chance,” he said. “Since joining our academy, Luka has consistently demonstrated his willingness to learn and improve each day and has been a key part of our senior academy set up. “The opportunity to play at a World Cup does not come around every day, and we are excited for Luka to enjoy the experience of this tournament and use it to continue furthering himself on and off the pitch.” New Zealand have been drawn into a difficult Group F in the tournament alongside European powerhouse Germany and two sides from the Americas in Mexico and Venezuela. The 24-team tournament kicks off on Friday 10 November AEDT, with New Zealand’s first match coming against Venezuela. The side will be out to earn a top-two finish in the group to guarantee progression to the Round of 16, while the best four third-placed teams will also secure qualification.

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