Star Weekly - Northern - 21st November 2023 by Star Weekly

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21 NOVEMBER, 2023

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Give a big festive hug

BGH representatives Emina Mesinovic and Bianca Conry with a donation bin. (Damjan Janevski) 373094_01

Big Group Hug is calling on the community to help provide essential items for a clean, safe, and comfortable festive season for children. The not-for-profit group has launched its ‘A Clean and Comfy Christmas’ campaign. Every year, Big Group Hug extends a helping hand to more than 3000 families across Victoria. This Christmas, Big Group Hug is specifically seeking new toiletries for children of all ages, single bed linen and cot and bassinet linen. Big Group Hug manager Maria Quigley said there are numerous ways to help. “Run a goods drive, inspire your family, friends and colleagues to donate essential items for local families, and help provide a clean and comfy Christmas,” she said. “A goods drive is a great way for your family, school or office to come together, give back and make sure that every family has the chance to thrive.” “People could also donate funds as a business or an individual to support families in need this festive season or ask family and friends to make a donation as their gift to you.”

Airport rail link survives By Gerald Lynch The Melbourne Airport Rail Link is readying for takeoff after $5 billion of federal funding was reconfirmed last week. However, exactly when the long-awaited link to the airport will be constructed remains unclear. The federal government released its national infrastructure review on November 16, which looked at all infrastructure projects across the country proposed over the next decade. Fifty projects lost funding, however none of those were in Hume or Whittlesea. Federal funding that survived the cull included

$109.54 million for the Mickleham Road Upgrade, $50 million for the Hume Freeway – O’Herns Road Interchange Upgrade, and $250,000 for a Wollert Rail Feasibility Study. Despite welcoming the federal commitment to funding the airport rail link, Premier Jacinta Allan wasn’t able to say when the project would start citing “incredibly frustrating” negotiations with Melbourne Airport as the reason for ongoing delays. “The negotiations with the airport in terms of delivering the rail line and the station on airport land that is leased by the airport from the Commonwealth government, those negotiations have been frustrating,” she said. “For three years we have been attempting

to negotiate with the airport on how we can best deliver the rail line and the station in that airport footprint, and those negotiations have been incredibly frustrating. “In welcoming the federal government’s commitment to the project, we also welcome the airport to see how we can best deliver this project on behalf of the Victorian community.” A Melbourne Airport spokesperson said “Melbourne Airport Rail link is an important project, and important to get right”. “Our preference has always been, and remains, for an underground station,” the spokesperson said. “The airport station must be fit for purpose and future proof, to ensure that passengers

are well served and so that neither the airport precinct or rail line are constrained as Melbourne continues to grow. “Melbourne Airport remains ready to work with the state and federal governments to develop and deliver this project for Victoria.” Hume mayor Naim Kurt said the link was vital to easy congestion and support employment. “Hume City Council is pleased the Commonwealth government has re-committed to funding for the Airport Rail Link as we see it as crucial project for our local community, in terms of easing congestion and supporting employment,” he said.

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NEWS

Parents fined amid pickup chaos By Gerald Lynch Parents of Harvest Home Primary School students are being fined for parking illegally, but they say poor planning has left them no safe alternatives at school pickup time. Since it was opened seven years ago, the Epping school has grown to about 800 students across prep to grade six, however a quick glance at the parking situation outside the campus would make onlookers think it held just a fraction of that number of students. Tamara Eyre, whose son attends the school, said while the pickup situation has always

been poor, it has reached a tipping point. “It’s gotten to the point now where (Whittlesea) council is bringing someone out in an unmarked van and just handing out fines,” she said. “There are such a limited amount of spots available, school finishes at 3.10pm, but you have to get there at 2.15pm if you want any chance of finding a legal spot.” Ms Eyre said that the next best option was at a nearby shopping centre and oval across the road. “It’s a 10 minute walk, there is no school crossing or lollipop lady there to help the kids

cross what is a pretty busy road. I don’t want my son or other young kids having to navigate that alone. “It’s also not fair on the residents of nearby houses, I feel bad parking on their nature strip but myself and other parents have been left with no choice.” Ms Eyre has received two fines in recent weeks, $192 for stopping in a no standing zone, and $115 for parking on a median strip. She is contesting the fines with council. Whittlesea council director of infrastructure and environment Debbie Wood said she understood parents’ frustration.

“Traffic safety, particularly around schools, is of utmost importance. This is often jeopardised when people park illegally as it obscures the vision of both drivers and pedestrians,” she said. “We understand that parking at schools can be a frustrating experience for parents and Council regularly works with schools to help address parking concerns. “A pedestrian crossing was recently installed on Edgars Road to assist with pedestrians crossing from the rear of Harvest Home Primary School and the Aurora Town Centre where there is additional parking available.”

Animal rescue wins big Second Chance Animal Rescue (SCAR) received double honours at the recent Hume Business Awards. The Craigieburn-based not-for-profit organisation received the award for Innovation and Continuous Improvement, while chief executive and founder Marisa Debattista claimed the Hume Business Leader accolade. Ms Debattista said she was elated to receive the awards. “When they read out my name I was stunned. I am so honoured to have been chosen as the 2023 Hume Business Leader,” she said. “I am truly grateful for this award and would like to thank the team at the Hume City Council for their constant support and belief in the work we do at SCAR, and in my abilities as a leader in the community. “I would also like to acknowledge my entire

team, without these amazing people behind me I would not be where I am today.” Since SCAR opened up in 2008, it has rescued, rehabilitated and rehomed more than 15,000 displaced cats and dogs. “We have also started many pet outreach programs, aimed at helping disadvantaged pet owners to care for and keep their pets in times of crisis,” Ms Debattista said. “The work we do at SCAR literally saves lives, and not just the lives of animals. Pets bring so much to our community, and sometimes a pet is the only companionship and support that a person has in their lives... so looking after their pet means the world to them.” Other award winners were Campbellfield caterers Hearty Health for food manufacturing, Craigieburn’s Vietnamese restaurant VHM Bros for Visitor Economy, and the Melbourne Airport Holiday Inn for Customer Service.

Hume business leader Marisa Debattista and recently adopted dog Bart. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

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Green space concerns By Gerald Lynch Unrest has grown among Broadmeadows residents after learning that one of its only “clean, green spaces” has been sold to Metricon, which plans to build 65 small residential dwellings on the 2.2 hectare site. A former primary school site off Nicholas Street is an area that locals have previously advocated to become a park or public green space. A promotional Metricon sign was recently placed at the site boasting two-four bedroom properties in a ‘multicultural community’. Local residents continued to dig for information and they were shocked to learn that the majority of the land had been sold by the state government to Metricon in 2018. Hume council received the rest of the land, 0.75 hectare, for a neighbourhood park. A spokesperson for Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny said the dwellings being built on this space are important to ensure the public has access to affordable housing. “Housing is one of the biggest challenges Victorians face - that’s why we’re making sure there is a mix of social, affordable and market housing in established suburbs close to transport, jobs and essential services,” said a spokesperson. Broadmeadows Progress Association (BPA) member Shahnoor Janjua said she is extremely unhappy with the decision to use the space for residential development. “My main issue is that there are no clean, green spaces in Broadmeadows for us residents to enjoy,” she said. “It’s really sad and dangerous, especially when you consider that every second house in Broadmeadows is subdivided to have no backyard either. “My family moved into the suburbs for

Broadmeadows resisdents Shahnoor Shah and Raza Jajua at the site of a future 65 dwellings, which they hoped would be a nice open green space. (Damjan Janevski) 372926_02

more space, and I cannot understand why developers are allowed to build slums so far out from the CBD. “People deserve to live in regular sized homes.” Ms Janjua said upon finding out that the space had been sold to Metricon, her concerns grew beyond a lack of green space. “Seventy townhouses to be built in this tiny area… That’s additional dumped rubbish, construction noise, and added congestion us residents will have to deal with,” she said.

Star Weekly has been told the timelines on when the land rights will actually be transferred from the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) remains unclear. “The development of this former school site will deliver a mix of housing that meets the needs of existing and future Broadmeadows residents. It will deliver 0.75 hectares of new and improved public open space that will connect through to the Meadowlink Linear park,” said a spokesperson. Metricon was contacted for comment.

NEWS

Off-leash dogs could see fines Hume residents will be fined if their dogs are found off-leash in a public place. Hume council on Monday, November 13 at its council meeting passed an order under s26 of the Domestic Animals Act 1994, to prohibit dogs from being off-leash in public places for the second time. The order was originally passed by the council in June 2020, but due to an administrative error, the order was not published in the Victorian Government Gazette or a locally circulated newspaper, rendering the order non-enforceable. In September, Hume council recognised the error and moved to refund just shy of $10,000 to residents who had received infringement notices during this time. Councillors at the time admitted the council was at fault and that it only impacted a relatively small number of individuals. Councillor Karen Sherry said while dogs are a great part of our lives, this act is necessary to keep them and ourselves safe in public spaces. We recognise the importance of dogs, wonderful friends for the health and wellbeing of the community,” she said. “The report specifies the off-leash areas and what the responsibility is of dog owners in terms of the dog being under active voice control if it is in an off-leash area, as well as cleaning up after your dog. Gerald Lynch

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Police station hours to be cut By Gerald Lynch Reception hours at Epping police station are set to be reduced from 24 hours to just eight a day under changes announced by Victoria Police. Hours are set to change at 43 Victorian stations temporarily as a result of staff shortages across the state. Officers previously assigned to reception shifts will be deployed to frontline duties. Greensborough and Reservoir stations will also have their reception hours cut. Epping resident Janelle Hellyer said she was

concerned about the move to reduce counter hours. “A manned police station sets a scene of safety for our most vulnerable population. Examples that come to mind are victims of domestic violence, assault, or theft,” she said. “The times proposed are simply not realistic to the emergencies that Epping faces. Our community deserves a safe sanctuary 24-7.” North West Metro acting superintendent Lynette Flynn reassured residents that they will still be able to receive necessary support. “Please be assured – the upcoming

temporary closure of Epping, Greensborough and Reservoir reception counters does not mean the actual police stations will be closing,” she said. “We will still have police working from the stations and patrolling the local areas. “When a police station reception counter is closed, police continue to respond to urgent incidents and prevent crime in the community. “The closures will also mostly be occurring in the evening or overnight when we know reception counters are rarely attended. “Anyone who needs to attend a police station

during these hours can attend Heidelberg, Mill Park, Preston, Broadmeadows or Mernda police stations which will remain open 24 hours. “The community is always directed to call triple-0 for emergencies or the police assistance line for non-urgent reports.” Whittlesea inspector Chris Allen said crime in the area was trending down according tothe latest crime statistics. “Overall crime in Whittlesea has dropped by almost 20 per cent since pre-pandemic, and residential break-ins have also dropped by 36 per cent since pre-pandemic,” he said.

Cluster’s double honour The Northern Schools Early Years Cluster (NSEYC) has won two 2023 Victorian Early Years Awards. The NSEYC, a not-for-profit early years management organisation, won the Improving Access and Participation in Early Learning Award, for its fast-tracking of 15 hours of kindergarten for children at risk. This involves delivering 15-hours of funded kindergarten for three-year-olds across each of its 15 kindergarten services, including Bethal and Meadows primary school kindergartens, Broadmeadows Preschool and Dallas, Upfield and Holy Child kindergartens. As part of its commitment to improving access and participation, the Northern Schools Early Years Cluster Inc. is already delivering 15-hours of free kindergarten for 3-year-olds across each of its 15 kindergarten services. The cluster also took out the Minister’s Award, a special commendation awarded by

the Early Childhood Minister. NSEYC chief executive Sigi Hyett said she and the whole team was incredibly proud to win the awards. “We are absolutely thrilled to have received not one but two of the Victorian Early Years Awards,” she said. “Both of these awards are a wonderful recognition of the amazing work of our teams, partners, families and children at the NSEYC. “As a non for profit organisation who purpose is ‘ To Love a Life of Learning and Living’, we are extremely proud of our achievements and it is a privilege to contribute to developing quality education programs for children in our community. “The prize money will be used to continue supporting quality education and care for our youngest citizens and leaders.” - Gerald Lynch

Northern Schools Early Years board members, from left, Pamela Streete, CEO Sigi Hyett, Val Kariatiana and Lynne Gunning. (Damjan Janevski) 373539_02

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6 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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Tick for northern ‘gem’ planning By Gerald Lynch A future plan for a “gem“ of Melbourne’s north, the Marram Baba Merri Creek Regional Parklands, has been endorsed by Hume council. The council endorsed the future plan for the parklands which is set to be fully achieved by 2050. The parklands stretch throughout Hume and Whittlesea, and have a total area of 2778 hectares. The plan includes improved access to and within the parklands to access points, trails,

and waterway crossings. It will ensure protection and management of the parklands well into the future, and try to improve on a number of themes, including culture and identity, climate resilience, and experience. Councillor Jodi Jackson heavily endorsed the plan, after spending seven years working within the area. “The plan sets out the visions and directions for what will become one of greater Melbourne’s largest parklands,” she said. “I am so thrilled that this parkland is finally going ahead, it is truly a beautiful space and we

are so lucky to have it right on our backdoor. “It’s the culmination of decades of advocacy by Merri Creek management and the surrounding councils. “It provides beautiful natural space for hundreds of thousands of people right across the northern parts of Melbourne to enjoy on a regular basis.” Cr Jackson called it the “gem of our city” and cannot wait for the community to enjoy it in full force. Councillor Karen Sherry said it was one of the most important plans surrounding natural resources that Hume council has worked on

since she joined in 2016. “These parklands will link existing reserves and private land, and be a corridor of connectivity for people, flora, and fauna,” she said. “Passing this report supports us to seek further funding… for bridges, pathways, cycling tracks and vegetation works.” The plan also contains a long-term commitment to return land to the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation (WWCHAC). A launch event with ministers and local representatives is scheduled for November 30.

Something for all in multicultural entertainment Multicultural fun is just around the corner, with the Residents of Epping North and Wollert Community Association hosting an event on Sunday, December 10. There will be loads of free activities on the day including henna tattoos, a photobooth, face painting and live percussion drumming. There will also be live DJs, food trucks, market stalls and entertainment for the whole family. RENW president Paul Seidl said a lot of hard work is going into the preparation for the event and he can’t wait to welcome a huge crowd from all across Melbourne’s north. “The multicultural event is a celebration of diversity, bringing people from all walks of life together,” he said. “It is an opportunity to showcase the richness of our cultural tapestry in the northern suburbs of Melbourne and we hope

to foster a sense of unity and understanding among residents. “The community can enjoy a feast for the senses with diverse cuisines and performances, however the festivities are also a powerful reminder that we are stronger together, and our differences should be celebrated and embraced. “Our main goal in organising the event is to create a sense of belonging and pride in our community. “We look forward to welcoming the community on December 10 at the Galada Community Centre from 4pm.” - Gerald Lynch

Melinda Iliopoulos, Aaradhana (10), Sri Bashyam, and Paul Seidl. (Damjan Janevski) 372568_03

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 7

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU Briefs

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New park name Following community consultation, the reserve located at 18 Rhyolite Drive, Craigieburn, will be renamed the Rhyolite Drive Reserve. Consultation was undertaken with a majority of the community input in support of the new name. The reserve was previously named Aitken Hill Recreation Reserve, but a change was prompted due to concerns that there would be confusion amongst residents with nearby Mt Aitken Reserve. Cr Bell said it was a “common sense outcome” for the name to be changed.

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Northern Health workers expressed their gratitude to donors and their families. (supplied)

Shout-out to donors Northern Health thanked organ and tissue donors on Sunday, November 19 as part of DonateLife Thank You Day. DonateLife began in 2009, and has seen 17,000 lives saved due to the generosity of more than 6000 donors. In the past year, Northern health has had three organ donors leading to nine lives being saved and transformed. Seven donors of eye and tissue also delivered, restoring sight and changing the lives of 14 recipients. Northern Health medical donation specialist Dr David Crosbie expressed his gratitude towards the Northern Health staff as well as donors. The day thanks not only the donors but also families who consent.

“Organ and tissue donation would not be possible without the commitment, teamwork and caring nature that is in place to support the donation team, patients and their families through organ and tissue donation,” he said. “The role of the donation specialist is a very unique and privileged role. It is very humbling to sit with a family and learn about the patient, where they share intimate moments and stories with you, whilst feeling such grief and loss, said Bridget Walters, Nurse Donation Specialist. “The decisions of families saying ’yes’ to donation, have literally saved the lives of others they have never met.” Gerald Lynch

Industrial action being taken by some Whittlesea council staff is over after staff agreed to a new Enterprise Agreement. Sixty council workers, most of them Australian Services Union members, took protected industrial action on several occasions. Whittlesea council said in a statement that a new agreement received a majority yes vote from staff so it will now be lodged with Fair Work Australia for official ratification. ASU deputy branch secretary Tash Wark said workers have mixed feelings about the outcome of this bargaining. “Whilst the deal contains some short-term relief, workers will need continued support to weather the cost of living,“ she said. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building North East Link. We’re also upgrading the Eastern Freeway and completing the M80 Ring Road, making travelling around Melbourne quicker and safer. Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Hurstbridge Line

2 to 18 Dec

Sections of the line

Tram disruptions: Buses replace trams in both directions Route 19

21 to 29 Nov

Stop 7 Queen Victoria Market/Elizabeth Street and Stop 19 Brunswick Road/Sydney Road

Road disruptions: Roads, lanes and ramps closed Eastern Freeway, Bulleen

From 8pm to 6am, until 15 Dec Lanes closed between Burke and Doncaster roads Until 2028

Reduced speeds between Burke and Tram roads

Bridge Street, Manningham and Templestowe roads, Bulleen

At night, until late 2023

Lanes closed at times

Bulleen Road, Bulleen

24 Nov to 5 Dec

Road closed with local access only

M80 Ring Road, Greensborough

At times in Dec

Lanes closed between Greensborough bypass and Plenty Road

Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne 12646277-RR47-23

8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

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NEWS

Ambulance responses improve By Gerald Lynch Hume and Whittlesea municipalities have recorded improved ambulance response times for urgent care according to the latest Ambulance Victoria (AV) response statistics. Code one incidents, those which require urgent paramedic and hospital care and use lights and sirens, are aimed to be responded to within 15 minutes. For those in Hume, the average response time for code one cases from July to September, 2023 was 15.53 minutes, a 1.53 minute

improvement on a 17.06 minute average in the previous quarter. The statistics show 61.2 per cent of response were responded to within 15 minutes, improving on 53.8 per cent from April to June. The average response time for patients requiring urgent care in Whittlesea from July to September, 2023 was 15.22 minutes, with 64.6 per cent of callouts having a response of less than 15 minutes. In comparison to the last quarter, which had an average response rate of 16.26 minutes and only 57.1 per cent of cases responded to

within 15 minutes. Metropolitan regional and clinical operations director Narelle Capp said although Hume and Whittlesea were the third and fifth busiest municipalities in the last quarter in terms of emergency responses, the figures were strong. “We are proud of our hardworking paramedics and it’s great to see performance improving in Melbourne’s north following unprecedented pressures on the health system due to COVID-19,” she said. “Ambulances arrived at ‘lights and sirens’

cases on average one minute and 13 seconds faster than the previous quarter in the Hume LGA [local government area] and one minute and four seconds faster in the Whittlesea LGA.” Ms Capp also expressed gratitude to residents for using the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) sensibly. She said that with new ambulance branches currently being built in both Craigieburn and Epping they were hoping response times would drop even further.

Hitting the big screen A young Broadmeadows local has had a whirlwind few weeks, seeing her short film on the big screen at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), after she won a film competition advocating for safer driving among young Victorians. Cinema company Val Morgan and the Transport Accident Condition (TAC) combined forces for the fifth annual Split Second youth film competition. Broadmeadows’ Sati O?cal, a 22-year-old, was named the winner, receiving a $5,000 cash prize and $70,000 production budget to bring her creative concept to life. Following its premiere at ACMI, the film will be aired in cinemas across the state between October and November. Ms O?cal’s comedic short film, Gadgets, was picked as the winning script from more than one hundred entrants and compares a car’s safety features to the alluring gadgets of a spy car.

Ms O?cal said that it was her love for storytelling that inspired her to get into film. “I have vivid memories of making silly short movies with my sisters on my mum’s Nokia when I was little, and the enjoyment I got from coming up with all sorts of crazy plot lines while playing with my barbies and Legos,” she said. “I’m honoured to be able to use art to encourage people my age to take road safety more seriously. I feel so fulfilled studying screenwriting and am very proud to have my work featured on this scale. TAC chief executive Tracey Slatter said the competition fosters a culture where young people can become actively involved in our efforts towards creating a safer future on Victorian roads,” she said. “This year, Split Second focused on raising awareness of the importance of vehicle safety among young drivers.“

Sati Ocal (centre) alongside the Gadget actors and TAC representatives Helen Reddan (Manager Transport Accident Commission) and Samantha Cockfield (Head of Road Safety Transport Accident Commission). (supplied)

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Tuesday, 21 November, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 9

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We’re moving.

Buzz around the college

From 4 December 2023 we’ll provide all Medicare and Centrelink services at: 1640 Pascoe Vale Road, Coolaroo, Victoria, 3048. Services available at: 16 – 22 Pearcedale Parade, Broadmeadows, Victoria, 3047 are moving on this date. Opening hours at the new location are 8.30 am to 4.30 pm. We’re offering a range of options to do business with us. You can: • use your myGov account, Express Plus mobile apps or phone self service to complete some of your business with us. To ﬁnd out more go to servicesaustralia.gov.au/selfservice • book an appointment for Centrelink services to minimise wait times • have a one-on-one digital coaching session to help access our digital services. To book an appointment call us on your main payment line or go to servicesaustralia.gov.au/phoneus

For Centrelink payments and services call 131 202 to speak with someone in your own language. For Child Support call 131 272 and let us know if you need an interpreter. We will arrange one for free.

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For Medicare call 132 011 and let us know if you need an interpreter. We will arrange one for free.

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The Epping Road Upgrade has meant a sustainability boost for Wollert Secondary College with the installation of new garden beds. It follows the rollout of new bee hotels, built as part of a collaboration between the Major Road Projects Victoria (MPRV) team and Year 7 students. The initiative aims to encourage the growth of native bee populations by providing shelter from harsh weather while also helping the students learn about bees’ important role in the environment. The project began in July when the team worked with students at the college to build bee hotel structures from terracotta pots and materials sourced from the project site. The team donated all the bee hotel materials along with flowering native plants, which were planted near the hotels to further encourage the bees’ populations. In the second stage of the initiative, MRPV returned to donate and assemble three raised garden beds. Wollert Secondary College gardening program coordinator Brigette Fletcher is thrilled with the way the garden improvements have inspired the students. “The students have been volunteering their time for the upkeep of the garden beds, which has involved planting and caring for the plants as part of the Bee Hotels initiative,” she said. “I’m very proud of the responsibility and commitment of every student to making the project a success.” MRPV director Adrian Furner said the “the initiative reflects our team’s strong focus

Year 7 student Maryam Zadkhor with one of the donated garden beds. (Supplied)

on working with the community to achieve positive environmental and sustainability outcomes”. “With these bee hotels and garden beds, the Epping Road Upgrade and Wollert Secondary College are delivering a great and lasting legacy for the local community,” he said. Gerald Lynch

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NEWS

Cat vaccine shortage hits Hume By Zoe Moffatt Hume council will no longer trap cats due to a nationwide cat vaccine shortage, in what has already had a major impact on shelters. In an announcement on November 10, Hume council announced it would stop trapping cats immediately and for the foreseeable future to reduce the number of cats needing to be taken to shelters. From September 2022 to September 2023, Hume council trapped approximately 1602 cats, which is about 133 per month. Hume mayor Naim Kurt said the council

is doing its part to support the community based on advice from its shelter partners. “The health and wellbeing of cats in care is of utmost importance, as is ensuring the safety of all wildlife in our streets,” he said. “While we’ve been told the situation is temporary, there is currently no confirmation of when vaccines supply will increase. “We encourage the community to do their bit during this critical time by keeping cats in their homes, where they can, desexing and considering cat adoption to ease the pressure on the shelter system.” An RSPCA Victoria spokesperson said the shortage of vaccines includes those that prevent

illnesses like cat flu and panleukopenia. “While faced with these delays, we recommend keeping cats indoors and separated from feline visitors until vaccine supplies normalise,” they said. “Cats with a strong vaccine history may have lingering immunity… however, owners are urged to speak to their vet about these delays and their cat’s needs.” The spokesperson said RSPCA Victoria is actively monitoring the situation, but it has not impacted its ability to admit and care for cats in shelters. “As a result, feline vaccines are temporarily paused at our community outreach programs,

although other general health checks and services such as deworming will continue where possible.” The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) released a statement on October 26 said it has already had a major impact on shelters and some have had to close its doors to new felines. “The key message is to prioritise kittens and delay adult boosters if possible,” AVA said. “Feedback from vaccine suppliers has confirmed the issue is being effectively managed with the highest priority, with some supply available in the latter part of 2023, before normalising in early 2024.”

Alice elevates maths Elevation Secondary College paraprofessional teacher Alice Hu has won the Outstanding Early Career Secondary Teacher Award at the 2023 Victorian Education Excellence Awards. Ms Hu has always had a strong passion for mathematics and improving women’s access to STEM subjects and found her love of teaching after engaging The University of Melbourne mathematics department. She ran logic and career inspiration workshops at the university and worked with teachers to identify mathematics potential in female students. Forty students attended the voluntary workshops, with years 7-9 girls now demonstrating higher ‘mastery’ levels. She then began her career at Elevation in Craigieburn with Teach for Australia, a non-profit organisation that aims to address the inequality of education within Australia.

Year 8 student Ammar Mahmoud is one who has benefited from Ms Hu’s work. Ammar moved to Australia from Egypt in 2018, and has actively participated in the college’s accelerated mathematics program since year 7. He recently won best project in Australia at the National Maths Talent Quest Awards. “Ms Hu guided me through my project, helping me consider details I wouldn’t have thought of otherwise,” he said. “She consistently assisted me during her spare time and has been a strong support in maths since last year when she was my year 7 maths teacher.” College principal Colin Burke was full of praise for Ms Hu saying “Alice has visibly and positively impacted the learning outcomes of all her students“. Gerald Lynch

Alice Hu and her Year 8 student Ammar who she mentored. (Damjan Janevski) 372570_01

What’s on

Christmas is just around the corner Planning a new splash park in Doreen Dust off your Santa hat, warm up your caroling voice and get ready for a festive evening of fun at the City of Whittlesea Carols by Candlelight.

Council will be developing a concept plan for a new splash park and playground in Doreen and we would love to hear your thoughts.

This event will be jam-packed with fun and exciting activities including face painting, roving performances, art and craft activities, a twilight market and, of course, lots of singing.

The new play space will be built at Hilltop Park in Doreen. You can share your thoughts at www.engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au

When: Friday 15 December 2023, 6pm – 9pm Where: Civic Centre lawns, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang For more information, visit www.arts.whittlesea.vic.gov.au

This project will be delivered by the City of Whittlesea and supported by the Federal Government through the Investing in Our Communities Program, and the Victorian Government through the Better Parks and Playgrounds Program and the Community Support Fund.

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Rubbish drive

The DMNC will put its grant to good use within the community. (Supplied)

Grant help for wellbeing Hume and Whittlesea organisations are among those to receive Australia Post community grants. The Doreen Mernda Nepalese Community (DMNC) in Mernda received a grant of $3000 to support a four-week community program in Doreen and Mernda, with an emphasis on health and wellbeing. The program features yoga and meditation sessions in the first week, followed by a rejuvenating Yean Yean Reservoir walk with morning refreshments in the second week. The third week focuses on open discussions about mental health concerns, including family matters, work-related pressures, and

financial stress. The program will conclude with an “It’s OK Not To Be OK“ open house event in the fourth week, encouraging reflection, dialogue, and holistic wellness. DMNC employee Sudip Shrestha shared the plans to improve mental health in the community. “We are developing a strategic plan to enhance the mental health of our community through participative programs, workshops, and sharing sessions. Our goal is to bring community members closer together and foster overall well-being,” he said. The centre for Muslim Wellbeing in

Broadmeadows received $2000, with plans to deliver culturally-responsive mental health first aid training workshops to community leaders and members. The workshops will improve mental health literacy, reduce stigma and build capacity and resilience within the community. Australia Post spokesperson Tanny Mangos said mental health support groups and programs have been identified as an area that requires ongoing support and commitment… this year we are delighted to be able to support such a diverse group of organisations”.

Hume council has launched the next phase of its Keep Hume Clean campaign, with the introduction of a new vehicle for the waste response team. In Hume, leaving unwanted items on the nature strip counts as illegally dumped rubbish. The council said it has seen a flow on effect in recent months of one household dumping rubbish spreading across the whole street and neighbourhood. To counter this, the council has introduced the waste team. The team has spent time out in the community, talking to residents about alternative options for disposing of unwanted rubbish. Via their website, Hume council spoke to the work the response team will conduct. “Through knocking on doors, taping off dumped rubbish on nature strips and leaving information in letterboxes, we have already helped a number of residents book their first at-home hard waste collection and learn about the variety of options Council offers for disposing of waste and unwanted items,” they said. “In the last year, council had to spend $4.7 million on removing up to 4881 tonnes of illegally dumped rubbish from the community. “Household items account for around 60 per cent of dumped rubbish in Hume. “By working with residents directly and focusing on education, the Waste Response team aims to reduce the rate of illegal dumping to make Hume a cleaner, better looking area for all.”

Gerald Lynch

FEATURING.... DISABILITY

Advertising feature

Helping clients into work Gellibrand is passionate about supporting people with disabilities to live their best life; in their way, with whom and where they choose. Our philosophy is about putting people first: Real People, Real Connection, Real Service, Real Outcomes is our passion and our commitment. Gellibrand offers supported accommodation (SIL & SDA), support coordination, community participation 1:1, Meaningful Activities in Partnership (group community participation) and respite supports (STA and MTA) . Gellibrand currently have 6 vacancies in Wyndham, 1 vacancy in Hobsons Bay, 2 vacancies in Melton (Robust House) and 2 vacancy in the Ballarat. For all enquiries please contact us through any of the following channels.

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Not-for-profit NDIS provider Gellibrand Support Services has for more than 50 years supported people who live with disabilities. One of its key aims is to support clients to achieve outcomes they want as valued community members. Employment – both paid and volunteer – is a recent outcome clients are experiencing as a result of years of support From Gellibrant. Duy Nguyen has lived in a Gellibrand group home since 2013. He lives with an acquired brain injury and has historically experienced social and physical challenges, including needing a wheelchair for mobility. However, he expressed his goal to one day have a job. Duy is a computer whizz – he recently built his own from scratch – and, in 2022, after an interview process, Gellibrand Support Services was able to offer Duy a part-time job with the technology maintenance crew. Similarly, this year long-term Gellibrand client Stephen Cauchi achieved his goal to contribute to a workplace, which, for him, is as a volunteer at a St Vincent de Paul’s op shop. When his support team realised how much Stephen loved op shopping, they made enquiries about whether he could volunteer at Vinnies. Stephen patiently worked through a long process of passing administrative checks before his first day finally came. He arrived for his first shift full of enthusiasm for his tasks, especially because they included managing storage of vinyl records, the artwork on which he loves. Gellibrand also has clients who staff cafes and assist with Gellibrand’s corporate proofreading, while others work in nature preservation. People who live with a disability want to be valued members of the community. Becoming workers or volunteers is one way this happens and Gellibrand is all about supporting them to reach goals like these.

Gellibrand client Stephen Cauchi at work.

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NEWS

Land sales drop in city’s north By Gerald Lynch Land sales figures in Melbourne’s north have dropped 11 per cent in the last quarter. A report from RPM Research outlines that potential homebuyers in Hume and Whittlesea are struggling to buy with reduced borrowing capacity and an increased cost of living. The 11 per cent decline was almost double that recorded across the broader Melbourne and Geelong growth areas, where sales fell six per cent. RPM national managing director project

marketing Luke Kelly said while sales had fallen, there were positive take-outs from the quarter. “The northern corridor’s share of total sales across the corridors remains elevated compared to the long-term average and that’s because of its affordability,” he said said. “Owner occupiers made up a healthy 71 per cent of buyers in the north, with just over half of these first-home buyers. “The north also had the lowest average time on market of all corridors at 109 days, which has led to lot absorption continuing to outpace new supply.

“Developers are also offering five to 10 per cent incentives off the headline price of lots which should help spur demand.” The latest quarterly report from RPM shows sales across the Melbourne and Geelong growth corridors fell by 58 per cent to 8129 lots over the 12 months to September 2023. The decline comes after sales rose 13 per cent in the second quarter to 2146 lots, fuelling hopes of the start of a recovery. Mr Kelly said the fluctuation was due to a multitude of challenges facing buyers including affordability, a reduction in

borrowing capacity, and the rising cost of living, and said he doesn’t expect a great rise in the near future. “It appears the June quarter may have been an aberration and not a sign of an upward trajectory, although in good news, while sales were down in quarter three compared to the previous quarter they remain above the first quarter of the year,” he said. “Pressure on demand remains strong, however, due to persistent inflation and the latest increase to the cash rate this month, the market looks like it will remain subdued for some time.”

Hume award winners Hume residents have been recognised at this year’s community awards ceremony, designed to celebrate and honour individuals who have made outstanding contributions. The awards will become an annual celebration of the individuals who foster a sense of pride in the community and keep Hume inclusive and safe. The then Mayor Joseph Haweil congratulated those who went above and beyond to inspire community safety and pride. “Hume is a wonderful place to live, work and learn, and it owes a big thanks to all the incredible residents who reach beyond the day to day to support their fellow community members,” he said. “By creating a revamped community awards event with the I Love Hume Community Awards we’re able to recognise these amazing contributions as unique to Hume and all that makes us great.”

Council received 97 nominations from Hume residents wanting to thank their peers’ for their efforts, from art that connects us to land, or through volunteering and community education. The awards have replaced the former Australia Day ceremony, and includes eight categories of; academic excellence, advocacy and social justice, arts and creative expression, community service excellence, environmental stewardship, outstanding cultural leadership, outstanding community leadership and sports recreation achievement. The winners include Muhammad Waqas Khan, Dianne Moon, Teena Moffatt, Fatma Khodr, Harsimran Kaur, Shammi Parekh Ally Watson, and Ayad Putros. Hume council community award recipients. (Tim Carrafa)

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Interchange plans begin

Yousef (3) causing some mischief... (Damjan Janevski) 370255_02

Nuha (9) wanted some quiet reading time. (Damjan Janevski) 370255_03

Action from Chatterbox Star Weekly’s Damjan Janevski headed out to Broadmeadows library to check out Chatterbox, a play-based program for pre-schoolers aged three-five. The program runs weekly on Tuesdays and encourages conversations and imaginative play between parents and children, whilst helping to develop kids’ communication and social skills, along with their creativity, fine and gross motor skills, and problem solving. Broadmeadows library team leader Jacqui Auhl said the program usually has around 10 children participating with their parents or carers.

Nada (5) enjoying some colouring. (Damjan

Sisters Nabaa (6) and Nema (4) hanging out at the dollhouse. (Damjan Janevski) 370255_04

Planning is underway for a potential Camerons Lane Interchange at the Hume Freeway in Beveridge. Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) is investigating options for the potential new interchange to provide safe and efficient access to the Hume Freeway at Beveridge. The potential interchange would also reduce traffic congestion, improve travel times, and cater for increased demand, with projections of Beveridge’s population rising from 7191 to 73,745 by 2041. MRPV’s planning is seeking a clearer understanding of the area and the environmental and social impacts it could have. The planning will build on previous development work by the Department of Transport and Planning. MRPV’s planning includes roadside technical investigations, which may require traffic control measures such as temporary lane closures, stop/slow traffic and set speeds. Traffic disruptions will be kept to a minimum and will avoid busy periods. MRPV project director Michael McClean said the potential interchange would be a critical link to the Hume Freeway for the fast-growing community at Beveridge. MRPV will provide an opportunity for public feedback on the potential interchange early next year. A business case for the potential interchange is being developed and is expected to be complete in 2024.

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FEATURING ... HALCYON HIGHLANDS

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Are you ready to join the Halcyon Highlands club? Stockland’s newest lifestyle community in Melbourne’s north, Halcyon Highlands, will set a new benchmark in seniors’ living when it launches later this month. Designed for the modern senior over 55, Halcyon Highlands is the perfect community for those looking to downsize without compromise. Project director Lachlan Atkins said the resort quality facilities will be a real point of difference in the market. “What we’re creating will be something very special in terms of luxury facilities, right on homeowners’ doorsteps. “Through thoughtful masterplanning, Halcyon Highlands is a lifestyle community that complements the natural surrounds of Melbourne’s north. “The leisure and lifestyle facilities have been strategically positioned in the centre of the community, creating a vibrant hub for homeowners,” Lachlan said. “Having empathy to the local area informed the design of the facilities, with landscaping themes connecting the buildings to the ground, creating a ‘softer’ built form.” Split into three precincts, the facilities provide ample opportunity to relax, socialise or get active. The Clubhouse is the perfect place to foster new friendships with neighbours. It features a modern lounge and bar, private dinning area, social alfresco and barbecue space, gold class style cinema, library and games room. Take it on or take it easy in the Health and Wellness precinct, which includes a fully equipped gym, indoor swimming pool and spa, sauna and treatment room. Completing the facilities is the Sporting Grounds, where friendly competition abounds with a bowling green, pickleball courts, event

lawn and fire pit. To learn more about the lifestyle on offer at Halcyon Highlands, visit: Halcyon Highlands Lifestyle | Halcyon Highlands | Halcyon (stockland.com.au). All photographs. illustrations. statements

and information are for illustrative purposes only and are based on information available to and the intention of Stockland at the time of creation and are subject to change without notice. No diagram. photograph, illustration, statement or information amounts to a legally binding obligation on or warranty by Stockland

and Stockland accepts no liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person who relies on them either wholly or in part. Indications of location, distance or size are approximate and for indicative purposes only. Subject to change.

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Artist’s impression. Subject to change. Images relating to landscaping are indicative only and may show mature plantings which may not be mature at settlement.

Now selling

New homes now selling at Halcyon Highlands from $479K* Our highly-anticipated first release included 15 home sites and a variety of beautiful home designs, with a choice of four bespoke colour schemes. Boasting a state-of-art clubhouse, including a health & wellness precinct and abundant sporting facilities, Halcyon Highlands will offer a rich and rewarding lifestyle for homeowners. Visit the Halcyon Highlands Sales Suite Open Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–4pm 640 Craigieburn Road, Mickleham Vic 3064

Halcyon Highlands

Scan the QR code to find out more, or call us on 1800 050 050 *Price correct as at 08/11/2023. Subject to change and availability. All photographs, illustrations, statements and information in this advertisement, are for illustrative purposes only and are based on information available to and the intention of Stockland at the time of creation (November 2023) and are subject to change without notice. No diagram, photograph, illustration, statement or information amounts to a legally binding obligation on or warranty by Stockland and Stockland accepts no liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person who relies on them either wholly or in part. Indications of location, distance or size are approximate and for indicative purposes only. Subject to change.

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16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

FEATURING ... MY BUSINESS

Advertising feature

Massive online toy sale Batting above Aussie Toys Online, an independent Australian-owned business, is gearing up for a festive shopping season by announcing a spectacular Black Friday sale, offering customers an opportunity to snag their favourite toys at up to 65 per cent off until 1 December 2023. Catering to a diverse clientele, Aussie Toys Online has become a household name, especially in regional Australia. Despite being a small business, it has managed to carve out a niche for itself with a loyal customer base that extends not only across the country but also reaches international destinations, including New Zealand and North America. “We consider ourselves more than just a business; we’re a family dedicated to providing our customers with an exceptional shopping experience,” said manager Sarah Thomas. “Our commitment is to deliver joy and happiness to children and families, and this Black Friday sale is our way of spreading the holiday cheer.” Known for their extensive collection, Aussie Toys Online boasts a wide range of quality toys, featuring popular brands like Bluey, Goo Jit Zu, The Wiggles, Hey Duggee, Paddington Bear, Octonauts, Thomas and Friends, Akedo, and many more. The selection also includes timeless classics such as Jenga, ensuring there’s something for every child’s taste and preference. In addition to toys, the company offers a diverse array of products, including costumes, books, and children’s homewares. The comprehensive range makes Aussie Toys Online a one-stop-shop for parents and gift-givers, seeking high-quality, entertaining, and educational items for children. To celebrate the holiday season and give back to its loyal customers, Aussie Toys

Sarah and Will get ready for the massive Black Friday sale at Aussie Toys.

Online has launched its Black Friday sale, featuring discounts of up to 65 per cent on selected items. The promotion runs until 1 December 2023, providing shoppers with an excellent opportunity to stock up on gifts for the upcoming festive season. “We understand the importance of making the holiday season special, and our Black Friday sale is designed to make quality toys and gifts more accessible to families.”

For those looking to take advantage of these incredible deals, Aussie Toys Online encourages shoppers to visit their website at aussietoysonline.com.au and explore the diverse product offerings. With stocks limited, customers are advised to act swiftly to secure the best deals on their favourite toys before the sale concludes on 1 December 2023.

Students from Roxburgh College had the chance to get up close and personal with the Melbourne Renegades women’s team, as part of the state government’s Active Schools program. Melbourne Renegades Women players taught students from Roxburgh College a variety of cricket skills at the Junction Oval before the students settled in to watch the team’s clash with the Sydney Thunder. The joint initiative by Cricket Victoria, Melbourne Renegades and Active Schools encourages all children but particularly girls, to get active and involved with community sport. The initiative includes a toolkit for school leaders and teachers, advice from expert Physical Activity Advisors and funding for schools with about 500 schools participating since Active Schools was launched in 2021. Education Minister Ben Carroll said physical activity is key to health and wellbeing which is why the government is delivering Active Schools to more than 400 schools this year. “Giving students more opportunities to increase their physical activity ensures they get the best start in life and helps them develop lifelong healthy habits.” Greenvale MP Iwan Walters said “We’re making sure more local students across Greenvale can enjoy the benefits of participating in sport through their education… it’s so encouraging to see our cricket stars of tomorrow develop their skills even further with the Active Schools program.”

CRAIGIEBURN CENTRAL CORNER AITKEN BOULEVARD & CENTRAL PARK DRIVE SHOWING 10th NOVEMBER - 3RD DECEMBER

CRAIGIEBURN, Corner Aitken Boulevard & Central Park Drive 10th November to 3rd December

NOVEMBER Friday 10th November Session 1: 7.30 pm Saturday 11th November Session 1: 2.30 pm Session 2: 6.30 pm Sunday 12th November Session 1: 11.00 am Session 2: 3.00 pm Wednesday 15th November Session 1: 7.30 pm Friday 17th November Session 1: 7.30 pm

Saturday 18th November Session 1: 2.30 pm Session 2: 6.30 pm Sunday 19th November Session 1: 11.00 am Session 2: 3.00 pm Wednesday 22nd November Session 1: 7.30 pm Friday 24th November Session 1: 7.30 pm Saturday 25th November Session 1: 2.30 pm Session 2: 6.30 pm

Sunday 26th November Session 1: 11.00 am Session 2: 3.00 pm Wednesday 29th November Session 1: 7.30 pm DECEMBER Friday 1st December Session 1: 7.30 pm Saturday 2nd December Session 1: 2.30 pm Session 2: 6.30 pm Sunday 3rd December Session 1: 11.00 am

*ALL PRICES ARE PLUS BOOKING FEES*

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BLACK FRIDAY EVENT S ALE

Up to 60% off On select items while stock lasts. Sale ends 01 Dec 11:59 PM AEDT.

aussietoysonline.com.au

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COMMUNITY

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

Creative arts and fitness

meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30–45 minute walk. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/ Eventbrite/Homestead-WalkingGroup-493400784027

Banksia Gardens Community Services is running yoga and jewellery making classes every Tuesday. ■ 9309 8531

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

Phone connect program This is a free community service for older people and people with disability, living on their own in the Hume and Whittlesea regions. Through the Community Connect Program, you will receive regular phone calls from a volunteer to check that you are safe, secure and well. ■ 8301 8863

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday from 11.30am-1pm at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park. ■ https://shorturl.at/cER26

Craigieburn Toastmasters Craigieburn Toastmasters supports community members in developing and practising their public speaking, leadership, and communication skills. They meet the first and third Thursday from 7.00-9pm at the Craigieburn Guide Hall, 33 Hamilton St, Craigieburn

Tai chi for health Come along to Homestead Community

Education and community centre

This week’s photographer’s choice is of Jessika Moveeley at the Kyneton Cup. (Damjan Janevski) 372769_01

and Learning Centre in Roxburgh Park for a lesson in tai chi, a low impact exercise program to build strength. Everyone is welcome. It’ll be held every Monday from 10-11am. ■ https://www.hume.vic.gov.au/ Eventbrite/Tai-Chi-for-Health317365848797

Adult education Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and

brushing up on English skills. ■ 9309 8531

Senior citizens meet The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park. ■ Beulah, 0411 422 398

Homestead Walking Group

Do you or someone you know need help learning English or understanding technology? Craigieburn Education and Community Centre is offering free beginner English and computer classes to eligible residents. Small, relaxed and friendly classes, drop in and say hello at 20 Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn. ■ 9308 1477 or https://www.craigieburn. org.au

Whittlesea Historical Society The Whittlesea Historical Society meets on the third Sunday of each month at Whittlesea Bowls Club at 2pm. Visitors are most welcome to attend. ■ 0414 740 778 or www. whittleseahistoricalsociety.org.au

Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and

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Grandstand and two-storey pavillion at the Regional Football Facility in Tarneit. (Western United)

Fan Brooke Muscat with the 21/22 A-League Men’s championship trophy.

United ready for homecoming After four seasons of ‘home’ games across Victoria and Tasmania, Western United is finally coming home to Tarneit. Gerald Lynch speaks to a superfan and an inaugural player on what it means for the club and community. Western United is getting closer to taking the next major step in its A-Leagues dream. This season, United will play its first men’s and women’s home games at the Regional Football Facility in Tarneit. With the proposed main 15,000 seat stadium still in the latter stages of planning, the club will host games in an on-site make-shift venue. It features a 1000-seat grandstand, with temporary seats to be installed around the ground, giving it a capacity of 5000 fans. After seasons of travelling far and wide to follow her beloved United now in the rear-view mirror, one of its most passionate fans, Brooke Muscat, is relieved that the green and black will be playing in the west. “It’s going to be amazing for not just the fans but for the club to finally have somewhere they can settle and truly start building,” she said. “The memories of travelling to watch the team will stay with me but it is really going to be great to not have to drive more than an hour to get to a game.” While Muscat said the club is one of her greatest passions, she understands why other western residents haven’t jumped on board yet due to the nomadic nature of the club’s first four seasons. But she expects the homecoming to be a huge boost on multiple fronts. Muscat is part of the group that runs the Western Core, the official active supporter group for the women’s team, while has been a member of the men’s side since day one. “I think it’s going to give the club a massive boost in support as there will be that stability and certainty about where home is for us,” she said. “The club can finally target fans with confidence, telling them where it is playing all its matches instead of having to explain and try to market games across multiple venues in multiple cities. “It’s no good telling a kid and their family in Tarneit to support a team that’s for the western suburbs, but you have to go to Ballarat if you want to watch them. It’s not something that will get new supporters on board. “Being in a permanent home is going to be a significant moment and will be a game changer for their community engagement.” Muscat was born and bred in the west, and despite being a Melbourne Victory fan during her childhood, she said jumping on the United bandwagon was an easy decision. After a serious injury while playing soccer as a teenager, Brooke subsequently stopped playing and stopped watching, falling out of love with the game. However, in 2017, when her childhood club Altona Magic opened up its women’s program, she picked the sport back up, and her love started to blossom again, just in time for Western United’s bid to join the A-League. “I guess that is what drew me to Western 20 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

Sebastian Pasquali of Western United dribbles during the A-League Men’s soccer match between the Brisbane Roar and Western United. (AAP Image/Pat Hoelscher)

United, it was the pride I have for the region and for all the west has done in shaping me as

‘‘

It’s going to be amazing for not just the fans but for the club to finally have somewhere they can settle and truly start building.

’’

- Brooke Muscat a person,” she said. “My love of the game through playing revived my interest and passion for also watching and it just made sense to start again and be a part of something new, so I was all in. “I still remember that feeling and the tears flowing when I tuned in to the announcement that said the bid was successful. “That’s how I knew this was the club for me and in time could become the club for all of the people in the west of Victoria.” Muscat urged her fellow western residents to rally behind United in its homecoming,.

“Just come along to a game, tickets are always affordable and the quality of football is there, the kids will love it,” she said. “I don’t think you’ll regret being a supporter of this underdog team.” While many fans have been attached to the club since its inception, only two players from the inaugural 2019-20 season squad have stood the test of time. One is club captain and Socceroo Josh Risdon, and the other is Sebastian Pasquali. Still just 23 and full of potential, Pasquali said he is feeling really strong physically and mentally this season and ready to put four injury-marred seasons behind him. Originally from Wangaratta, he moved to Maribyrnong for high school to chase his soccer dream. Pasquali joined Melbourne Victory’s youth academy at 15 years old in 2015 and after catching the eyes of the soccer world in a friendly match against Italian giants Juventus, he was purchased by Ajax Amsterdam at 16. However, when Western United came calling in 2019, Pasquali couldn’t turn down the offer for more senior level opportunities and the chance to be part of history in the heart of Melbourne’s west.

“We’re extremely excited and can’t wait to get in there (Regional Football Facility in Tarneit). We want to represent and play for the people in the west, so it’ll be an amazing opportunity to be able to do that,” he said. “All the fans have been amazing for the past few years, and we’re looking forward to seeing them support us when we move out there. “There are lots of passionate football fans in the western suburbs, we see our fan base growing, and the population of the west is always growing as well. “We’re positive and really excited to see our fans come out to Tarneit and continue on this journey with us.” With only short stints at both of his former clubs, Pasquali said he plans to continue to stick around for the foreseeable future and is bullish with what’s to come. “We’ve just got such a good culture, he said. “Amongst the playing group and the whole club really, we sort of have a really good feeling of togetherness, and it’s a really family orientated club. “This season we’ve got a relatively new, younger squad. With that, we’re able to bring lots of attacking and energetic football.”

PUZZLES

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

1 2 5

5 1

7 9 7

7 3 2

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

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

Bliss (8) Thespians (6) Punctuation mark (5) Cancer of the blood-forming tissues (9) Shun (6) Galley (7) Diplomatic representative sent on a mission (8) Mowing tool (6) From the mouth (5) Giving (8) Reproduction (7) Siddhartha Gautama (6) Dangerous aquatic reptile (9) Confined to an area (5) A planet (6) Prison-breakers (8)

1 5 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 20 21 24 27 28 29 30

No. 160

Wealthy (4) Truce (9) Break violently (5) Small US state (8) In a state of disorder (7) Activeness, effort (coll) (5) Type of steel (9) Male deer (4) Humiliate (9) Dental soreness (9) Hound of Hades (8) Lever setting off a gun (7) Flyer (5) Singing voice (4) Greek letter (5) Additional (4)

1 2 3 4 6 7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23 25 26

DECODER

No. 160

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

4 4 5

10 11 12 13

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

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

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

Today’s Aim: 14 words: Good 21 words: Very good

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

QUICK QUIZ

6 LETTERS DAPPER EERIER MOOTED ROAMED 7 LETTERS COMFORT CREMATE EDUCATE MUSTARD

8 LETTERS ARMOURED DOMESTIC FISHIEST THRILLER 11 LETTERS COMMISERATE VACATIONING

Vasco da Gama was the first European to reach which country by sea?

Patrick Mahomes plays which position for the Kansas City Chiefs?

What is American rapper Ice Cube’s (pictured) real name?

In what year was American singer Selena murdered by her fan club president?

What type of currency is used in Vanuatu?

Which Ancient Greek goddess was also known by the name Kore?

What play was Abraham Lincoln watching when he was shot?

A S T Y L T R A L O U R

No. 160

A K E D

NURTURE OUTLIVE

TREES TYING VASTS

GOUGE GREET HOIST INANE IVORY MATTE MEANT MERGE NAILS NEVER NOTES NULLA REUSE SCENT SODAS STEAL STEEL STUDY STUMP SWELL TIRES TORSO

24-11-23

P U F

4 LETTERS AGES AIRS BEST CARS CYST GETS JIGS JUST NAGS ODES ONUS SECT SELL STEP VICE

H E D S

5 LETTERS ALIBI ANVIL AUDIT AVERT BLAST BLUER BUTTE CALVE CHEAT CHEFS DEEDS DELVE DONOR DROSS EASED EBBED EDGES EMITS ENSUE EVENT FONTS

No. 160

$ 9 ( 5 7

flow, flown, flows, folk, fool, fools, fowl, fowls, loft, lofts, look, looks, loon, loos, loot, loots, lost, lows, slot, slow, solo, stool, tool, tools, TOWNSFOLK, wolf, wolfs, wool

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

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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”.

28 words: Excellent

hard

medium

9-LETTER WORD

easy

5x5

4 1 5 3 7 6

2 4 4 5 8 2

W P Q T I O G Y C A N S Z

9 8 6

X J H U M L R B E V F D K

3 LETTERS ADO AMP ARE ASH AVO BEE CPA DEN EAR ELM ERR HEW HUE ICE NEE NOR ODE OVA PAL PAS RUG UTE VIA

WORDFIT

Sandra Oh played Cristina Yang on which TV series? The name Vanessa was invented by which author in the 1700s?

10 The Saturn gaming console was developed by which company 1. India 2. O’Shea Jackson Sr 3. Vatu 4. Persephone 5. Grey’s Anatomy 6. Johnathan Swift 7. Quarterback 8. 1995 9. Our American Cousin 10. Sega

No. 160

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

SUDOKU

SECTION

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ORDER IN COUNCIL On 13 November 2023, Hume City Council (Council) made an Order under Section 26(2) of the Domestic Animals Act 1994. This Order is effective from 12:01am, 14 November 2023. 1. Revocation of previous Orders All previous Orders made by Council under Section 26(2) of the Domestic Animals Act are revoked. 2. Dogs must be on leash The person in apparent control of a dog must keep the dog attached to a leash held by means of a chain, cord or lead, in any public place within the Council’s municipal boundaries, unless the dog is in a designated off-leash area or Council has granted permission for an off-leash activity to take place, such as for dog obedience club activities, dog show or the like. 2.1. Dog owners must adhere to the following: 2.1.1. Dog off-leash areas adjacent to schools will revert to dog on leash areas during the hours of 8.00 am to 5.00pm 2.1.4. Dog owners to carry a receptacle for the effective removal of any excrement left by their dog and pickup and Monday to Friday on school days. appropriately dispose of any excrement left by their dog. 2.1.2. Dogs must not be tied up within 10 metres of a school or preschool entry. 2.1.5. Authorised officers must be trained and competent to use procedures that support the Order in Council. 2.1.3. Dogs must not be tied up near a pathway such that they can encroach onto the pathway. 3. Dogs in Off-leash Areas 3.1. Subject to Clauses 3.2 and 3.3 of this Order, a dog may be exercised off a leash in a designated off-leash area 3.1.3. remains in effective voice control or hand control and within consistent sight of the dog at all times provided the person in apparent control of the dog: 3.1.4. does not allow the dog to worry, cause a nuisance or threaten any person or animal. 3.1.1. carries a leash, one for each dog, sufficient to bring the dog under effective control 3.1.2. complies with any site-specific rules or regulations, including but not limited to time restrictions and regulations associated with fenced off-leash areas 3.2. If a dog is off-leash in a designated off-leash area, the dog must be brought under effective control by means of a leash if the dog is within 10 metres of: 3.2.1. a car park or roadway 3.2.6. a school or preschool boundary 3.2.2. outdoor exercise equipment 3.2.7. wetlands or a water body 3.2.3. formal picnic facilities, including BBQ facilities or a permanent picnic shelter, even if these facilities are in 3.2.8. a market or community event e.g. festival, fun run a designated dog off-leash area 3.2.9. if a dog is in a designated off-leash area, the dog must be brought under effective control by means of a 3.2.4. formal sporting competition or training events leash within 50 metres of a play space, playground, BMX/skate facility or similar. 3.2.5. a shared footpath or trail, nor impede other people using trails 3.3. The following areas are designated dog off-leash areas: Reserve Name

DOL Location Descriptor

Suburb

On Active Reserve

Time Restrictions apply *

Melways ref

Anderson Reserve

2-14 Glen Allan Street

Broadmeadows

Yes

6 H11

Broadmeadows Valley Park including Broadmeadows Dog Park (adjacent to John Ilhan Memorial Reserve)

Barry Road (west & south of sporting precinct & along ridge & east of north-south path)

Broadmeadows

6 F3

Broadmeadows Valley Park Ripplebrook Drive between - Ripplebrook Reserve Johnstone St & Dimboola Rd

Broadmeadows

6 E7

Seabrook Reserve

20 Goulburn Street

Broadmeadows

Yes

Will Will Rook Pioneer Cemetery

220 Camp Road

Broadmeadows

Bulla Recreation Reserve

17-45 Green Street

Bulla

Bolinda Road Reserve

via Horne Street

Seth Raistrick Reserve

Reserve Name

DOL Location Descriptor

Suburb

On Active Reserve

Time Restrictions apply *

Melways ref

John Coutts Reserve

46-48 Katrina Drive

Gladstone Park

6 C11

Ginifer Reserve

206-224 Carrick Drive

Gladstone Park

Yes

6 C10

Bradford Avenue Reserve

26-40 Bradford Avenue

Greenvale

Yes

179 A8

Drummond Street Reserve

11-25 Drummond Street

Greenvale

Yes

179 A12

Greenvale Recreation Reserve

Section Road

Greenvale

Yes

178 G7

7 A8

7 B9

Jacana Reserve

59-79 Johnstone Street

Jacana

Yes

6 D8

Jacana Valley Yes

177 B6

Campbellfield

1678-1700 Sydney Road

Campbellfield

Yes

Progress Reserve

27-59 Almurta Avenue

Coolaroo

Aitken Creek Reserve

between Hothlyn Drive & Railway line

Craigieburn Dog Park Craigieburn Gardens

157-159 Johnstone Street

Jacana

6 E9

Meadow Heights

179 H10

7 J8

Broadmeadows Valley Park Between Somerton Road & - Northern Reach Barry Road

7 F6

Lakeside Drive Reserve

27-51 Lakeside Drive

180 A6

Yes

7 A2

Roxburgh Park

Yes

Craigieburn

387 B11

Emu Bottom Wetlands (excluding Horseshoe Bend)

300 Racecourse Road

Sunbury

362 F7

127-147 Craigieburn Road,rear of Craigieburn LeisureCentre

Craigieburn

387 A10

Eric Boardman Reserve

224-256 Mitchells Lane

Sunbury

Yes

381 G5

Heysen Drive Reserve

381 J2

136-170 Craigieburn Road

Craigieburn

Yes

387 A9

between Heysen Drive & Reservoir Road

Sunbury

D.S. Aitken Reserve Hothlyn Drive Reserve

110-118 Hothlyn Drive

Craigieburn

Yes

387 A12

Langama Park

89-107 Mitchells Lane

Sunbury

Yes

381 K6

Spavin Drive Lake

Aldridge Drive

Sunbury

362 B11

Stewarts Lane Nature Reserve

between Coates Court & Streeton Court & south Stewarts Lane

Sunbury

361 K12

Hume Tennis and Community Centre

corner Marathon Boulevard & Newbury Boulevard (open space north of centre)

Craigieburn

Yes

386 D5

Mt Ridley Conservation Reserve

Mt Ridley Road

Craigieburn

387 A1

Sunbury Park including Sunbury Dog Park

60 Harker Street

Sunbury

382 E6

Newbury Park

corner Newbury Boulevard & Grand Boulevard (west of hockey field)

Craigieburn

386 E2

Sunbury Recreation Reserve – Clarke Oval

Riddell Road

Sunbury

Yes

382 C2

The Nook

Vaughan Street

Sunbury

382 G4

Vic Foster Reserve

16-32 Pines Way

Craigieburn

Yes

387 A7

Leo Dineen Reserve

52-60 Spring Street

Tullamarine

Yes

15 H2

Gibb Reserve

185 Blair Street

Dallas

Yes

7 A4

Trade Park

241 Melrose Drive

Tullamarine

5 H12

Laura Douglas Reserve

57-75 King Street

Dallas

Yes

7 B4

Tullamarine Reserve

300 Melrose Drive

Tullamarine

Yes

5 H11

Carrick Drive Reserve

300 Carrick Drive

Gladstone Park

6 B8

Westmeadows Reserve

136 Ardlie Street

Westmeadows

Yes

5 K6

Willowbrook Reserve

317 Mickleham Road

Westmeadows

Yes

5 K6

*Time restrictions – Dogs must be on leash between 8am – 5pm Monday to Friday on school days Maps and restrictions for designated dog off-leash areas can be viewed on Hume City Council’s website www.hume.vic.gov.au 4. Dog Prohibited Areas 4.1. Dogs are not allowed: 4.1.4. within the boundary of a play space, BMX/skate facility, or similar facility 4.1.1. in ‘dogs prohibited’ areas 4.1.5. to rush at, attack, bite, worry or chase wildlife. 4.1.2. on sportsfields unless the sportsfield is a designated dog off-leash area 4.1.3. to enter any water body 4.2. Dogs are prohibited from entering the following areas: Street Address

Suburb

Melways ref

11 Academy Drive

Broadmeadows

7 C6

Amberfield Grasslands

361 Craigieburn Road

Craigieburn

386 F9

Kalkallo Commons

100-130 Hunter Street & 56Mitchell Street

Kalkallo

367 F2

Somerton Red Gum Reserve

193B Hume Highway

Somerton

180 D5

Albert Road Nature Reserve

110 Albert Road

Sunbury

362 C7

Evans Street Grassland

128 Evans Street

Sunbury

382 D5

Dogs Prohibited Areas

Street Address

Suburb

Melways ref

Fullwood Drive Ceremonial Ring

76 Fullwood Drive

Sunbury

381 H1

Sunbury Cemetery

88 Shields Street

Sunbury

382 E7

Tandara Reserve

155 Phillip Drive

Sunbury

381 G1

The Parkway Reserve (Western section)

475 Racecourse Road

Sunbury

362 E5

Martin Dillon Reserve

Wildwood Road (near 400)

Wildwood

384 A12

12650425-JB47-23

Dogs Prohibited Areas Maygar Grasslands

4.3. Dog Prohibited areas reverting to dog on leash areas include: Site

Street Address

Suburb

Melways ref

Grey Box Woodland

1-7 Columbia Court

Broadmeadows

7 D6

Konagaderra Bridge Reserve

Near 225 Konagadera Road

Oaklands Junction

365 B8

5. Non-application to specified dogs or greyhounds Clause 3 of this Order does not apply to any dog which has been declared a Dangerous Dog, menacing dog or restricted breed dog under the Domestic Animals Act 1994, or toa greyhound which must be restrained in accordance with the restraint requirements under section 27 of the Domestic Animals Act 1994. 6. Definitions For the purposes of this Order: ‘Leash’ means a dog leash sufficient to control and restrain the dog that is no more than 2 metres in length. ‘Council’ means Hume City Council. ‘Public Place’ Places where the public are permitted access whether on public or private land. Includes areas such as parks, gardens, reserves, footpaths, roads, public halls,markets, sports facilities as defined in the Summary Offences Act (1966). Tuesday, 21 November, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 23

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Understanding the Mazda range By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring The Mazda lineup is becoming increasingly difficult to understand. Once upon a time there was the Mazda2, Mazda3, and Mazda6 and it was easy to follow the progression (not forgetting the MX-5 and RX-8 sports cars). Then along came the SUVs, denoted by a CX in front of the number CX-3, CX-5, CX-8 and CX-9. All good so far, except perhaps for CX-3 which actually sits on the same platform as Mazda2, making it smaller than its name might suggest. More recently the CX-30 and MX-30 were added, including a fully electric version of the MX – Mazda’s first EV. We’re not sure how or where the MX fits in, but to be frank it’s a bit of a non-event anyway with its silly doors. Now they’ve begun adding extra digits to the CX range, in the form of the CX-30, CX-60 and CX-90. It’s all a bit confusing and the thing is if we’re confused, how must the buying public feel, and isn’t that bad for sales? Which brings us to the subject of our test drive, the all-new, five-seat CX-60, a car that’s reportedly designed to take Mazda into hitherto uncharted premium territory. Sitting on new rear-wheel drive architecture with straight six rather than V6 engines, there’s no prizes for guessing which brand Mazda has in its crosshairs - make that BMW. STYLING The launch of the Mazda6 in 2002 was something of a turning point for the Japanese brand. Since then, it has demonstrated an uncanny ability to produce cars that are more than the sum of their parts, vehicles that look and feel more expensive than they actually cost to build. This design philosophy, known as Stylish, Insightful and Spirited, has seen Mazda climb to the number two position in the Australian market, second only to the seemingly unassailable Toyota. But, like other Japanese and Korean car makers, Mazda must be starting to feel pressure from the Chinese, whose cars are rapidly getting better and have begun pinching sales from established brands. They can’t match the Chinese on price, so the only place left to go is up, producing more expensive models that carry a greater profit margin because they are unlikely to sell as many. The CX-60 is the first of these models. Mazda reckons CX-60 takes the premium experience to a new level. It’s a high-quality concentration of design, driving dynamics, technology and comfort developed around what customers want from a mid-sized SUV. That’s the spin anyway. Whether people want or are prepared to pay more for their cars is another matter. CX-60 is priced from $59,800 plus on-road costs. There’s three grades and three different powertrains from which to choose, all of them hybrids - Evolve, GT and Azami. And, at a time when most manufacturers are downsizing engines, always the innovator, Mazda has opted to go big with two six-cylinder offerings. Kicking off proceedings is the 3.3-litre turbocharged six-cylinder petrol Evolve from $59,800, followed by the 3.3-litre turbocharged six-cylinder diesel from $61,800 and finally a 2.5-litre four cylinder turbocharged plug-in hybrid that starts from $72,300. Whatever grade you choose, you can pick any one of these powertrains. Our test vehicle is the CX-60 Azami with the 3.3-litre petrol hybrid and optional Takumi package, priced from $75,000 plus-on road costs. Standard equipment includes artificial leather and dual-zone climate control with rear vents, while the steering wheel and transmission lever are trimmed in real leather. Wheels range from 18 to 20-inch in size, with black body cladding and heated 24 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

Premium push: The five-seat Mazda CX-60.

body-coloured exterior mirrors that dim and fold automatically, along with a power-operated tailgate. There’s also head-up display, 7.0-inch driver display, LED lights, auto high beam, keyless entry and start, auto dimming mirror, auto lights and wipers, and front and rear parking sensors. GT and Azami add 20-inch alloys, panoramic sunroof, full leather trim, heated steering wheel, electric steering wheel adjustment, heated power-adjust front seats, 12.3-inch infotainment and a fully digitised 12.3-inch instrument cluster and 12-speaker Bose audio. They also boast the new driver personalisation system which automatically adjusts the driver position to each driver. The system uses facial recognition to remember each driver’s preferences. Azami ups the ante with Nappa leather, ventilated front seats, LED ambient lighting, leather side door trim with courtesy light, 360-degree see-through monitor and adaptive headlights. It also adds easy entry and driving position guide to the personalise system. Our test vehicle was also fitted with the $2000 Takumi package which includes white Nappa leather, white maple wood console panel and cloth dashboard panel with ‘Kakenui’ stitching. CX-60 is covered by a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty with five-year roadside assistance, with service intervals of 15 months/15,000km. INFOTAINMENT Infotainment consists of a 10.25-inch display which grows to 12.3 inches in higher grades, but as is the norm with Mazda neither are touchscreens and must be controlled from the centre console. Eight-speaker audio is standard with Bluetooth, built-in navigation, AM/FM/DAB+ digital radio, Apple Carplay and Android Auto (wireless and USB), plus wireless phone charging. There’s two USB-C ports front and back, plus a 12V/120W socket in the front, 150W AC socket in the back, plus another 12V/120W socket in the luggage area. The plug-in hybrid scores a rear 1500W AC three-pin power outlet. ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS The 48-volt mild hybrid powertrain delivers 209kW of power from 5000-6000 rpm and 450Nm of torque from 2000-3500 rpm, propelling the wagon to 100km/h in 6.9 seconds. In comparison, the diesel delivers 187kW and 550Nm while the plug-in hybrid puts out

241kW and 500Nm. With auto-stop-start and an eight-speed auto, drive is to all four wheels via a torque on demand system. It is predominantly rear-wheel drive. SAFETY Five-star safety includes front, side and curtain airbags, as well as a driver knee airbag and centre airbag designed to stop front seat occupants bumping heads in a side impact. There’s a 360-degree camera, Smart Brake Support (SBS) with Turn-across traffic and Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) with Vehicle Exit Warning. Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User and Junction Assist) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and blind spot monitoring (BSM) are also standard. DRIVING CX-60 feels big and hefty. It’s 16.5cm longer than CX-5, but 16cm shorter than CX-8. And it weighs 1949kg, about 220kg more than the top CX-5 - but 28kg less than the range-topping diesel CX-8. Mazda argues the large capacity 3.3-litre engines actually improve efficiency. It says the higher volume of air enables more complete combustion and a wider lean-burn range, leading to lower fuel use and reduced engine emissions. With a 58-litre tank, fuel consumption is a claimed 7.4L/100km, compared with the 2.5-litre turbo CX-5 which is good for 8.2 (and it takes standard unleaded). Mazda says the use of a clutch in place of a torque converter means switching between gears is clean and rhythmic. It also enables accurate control of the electric motor. But it’s not the smoothest. Drive modes include Normal, Sport, Off-Road and Towing. Performance is strong, six-cylinder strong, with a feel and note to match, as the wagon gathers speed, remembering it’s a straight six. Just driving around, however, it feels like an excited dog on a leash. The transmission, which also manages assistance from the electric motor, seems unable to settle down, constantly straining forward and falling back again. Prodding the accelerator in any gear produces an initial, half-second hiccup before the wagon responds. Cleverly, when you back off and the engine is no longer under load, the tacho needle flat lines as the six shuts down for several seconds at a time. Oddly, of the various drive modes, Off-Road

mode felt the more relaxed, even without leaving the bitumen – and that’s where we left it. But it’s not all peaches and cream, because twice in the course of the week the CX-60 refused to start. Put the transmission in Park, the message warned us. Trouble is, we were already in Park and no amount of prodding the start button could spur the thing into life. Park resides up and to the right by way of explanation. Further investigation revealed it was possible to put it in Park, but not fully in Park, even though the light confirmed it was. The transmission needs to be pushed firmly forward and all the way to the right before it will start. It’s all good, once you know the trick, but we found the change generally awkward to use when moving rapidly between forward and reverse. The suspension is biased towards the softer end of the spectrum, with a cabin that is well insulated but feels somewhat isolated, detracting from the overall drive experience. CX-60 sits reasonably flat and corners enthusiastically, but jars on city roads and became bouncy at speed on a country run. After going through the routine to set up driver personalisation, it failed to activate when we returned to the car. Guess you need three profiles, one with glasses, one with sunglasses and one without or remember to take them off. Walkaway locking is signified by the mirrors folding. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t (a bit of a worry). The long thin infotainment screen is ideal for Android Auto which splits the screen in a 2:1 ratio, with the larger section just right for navigation and the smaller area perfect for music. Having said that, the screen went blank at one point and returned only after we switched the car off and on. Unlike most hybrids, fuel consumption drops fairly quickly on the motorway. We were getting 9.2L/100km after close to 400km of mixed driving including some dirt roads, but this dropped to 8.7L/100km on the run into Sydney. SUMMING UP If it was our money, we’d take the top-of-the-line CX-8 turbo-diesel Asaki LE. It is a little larger, but doesn’t feel so and costs slightly less at $72,010 plus on-roads. With quilted leather and real wood inlays, the CX-8 simply oozes class, with sharper ride and handling belying its size. It also gets better fuel consumption. Grab one while you can.

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SPORT

Viclanders pleased with grand final appearance Hume Tennis and Community Centre came agonisingly close to claiming its first Tennis Victoria Premier League title, just falling short in the women’s decider. After the men’s team made the final last season, Hume entered both men’s and women’s teams in the same season for the first time. The men’s side, the Highflyers were hit by injury, and weren’t able to repeat last season’s heroics, but the women’s team stepped up. Called the Viclanders, the team made it through to the grand final where they were defeated by MCC Glen Iris Valley Demons, 2-4-26 to 0-1-17. Hume tennis’ Tim Connelly said while they were disappointed that the women’s team couldn’t get over the line, they were proud with what they achieved. He said they thought they had a really talented team coming into the competition. “It was good, the other team had a couple of

players in Seone Mendez and Jaimee Fourlis, who have both been in the top 150 in the world. “We had two players from Queensland. Kayla [McPhee was so good and lost to Jaimee 10-8 in a third set tie breaker.” Hume local Leann Carbis was also part of the team which was encouraging for all the local players. Connelly said after losing their top player Dayne Kelly and with Corey Gaal restricted to just doubles, they decided to focus on giving some local players the opportunity. “Going in our roster was pretty similar [originally].. There was the opportunity to give some of the young boys a chance. “Arda [Karakas] lives in Craigieburn. He’s just 17 and won a match and played against players with world rankings. “Luke [Sorensen] is 19. We didn’t win a match but we were on the wrong side of three super tie breakers, it was really close.”

Connelly said it was a massive opportunity to play against some of the biggest teams in the state. “There were four teams that had both men’s and women’s and we were the fourth team,” he said. “They are such iconic clubs and it’s good to show how tennis is going in Melbourne’s north. All the other teams [with the exception of Diggers Rest] are from the south of Melbourne. “It’s super exciting for the region and we want to grow awareness of tennis in Melbourne’s north. Hume has a first class facility.” Connelly said they were able to get some juniors involved and some were able to be courtside during matches. It’s a big few months for the centre ahead of the summer of tennis. The centre will host its first UTR pro tennis event later this year. Tara Murray

Hume Tennis Viclanders team (Supplied)

Debt threat hangs over northern clubs

Thameera Adikarinayake Mudiyanselage celebrates a wicket. (Jacob Pattison) 374047_04

Weerakoon stars in win Harper Sercombe Tullamarine is back on the winners list in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association McNamara Shield season. The Demons won the toss last weekend and decided to bat against Royal Park Brunswick and started the match strong, despite an early hiccup. The Demons finished at 4-266 with number five Nishitha Weerakoon the star, making an unbeaten 109 off 151 balls. Captain-coach David Scott was also not out at the end of the innings with 51 from 58 balls. “We had solid contributions from a number of players which was good,” Scott said. “Danny’s been a class player for a long time, he’s sort of that steady rock for us up the top, and he’s done it a few times. He looked really good, unfortunately he didn’t go on and make a 100 for himself. “Nishi [Weerakoon] has been outstanding for us this year already, he just seems to have a lot of confidence, that’s his first 100

for the club. “After putting 266 on the board we thought that was a pretty good score so we felt pretty confident heading into the second day.” On day two, the Demons headed onto the field and knocked over Royal Park Brunswick in extraordinary fashion with Harry Meehan collecting seven wickets, with the side dismissed for 105. “He just didn’t bowl a bad ball, he was on the spot from the start of the day and put them under pressure and made them play everything, he’s a class act” Scott said. “We brought him across from England to add a bit of talent to our bowling, and he’s been excellent. “In round one he took four wickets, so he’s been a strong contributor to our eleven and it was a really big day for him.” The Demons were unable to record the outright victory with the Royals digging in for their second innings scoring 1-37 from 26 overs. “We bowled quite well in that first innings,

so you can’t quite expect to do that too many times,” Scott said. “We had a chat as a group and said we were going to have a crack at it but it probably wasn’t expected that we were going to go out there and get it. “But it wasn’t too bad because it gave us an opportunity to give a few boys a bowl who haven’t had much of a chance.” The Demons face Keilor Park next weekend in another two-day clash at the Keilor Park Recreational Reserve. It was the Demons second in in three games. Scott said it was always going to take some time for them to settle in this season. “Obviously we’re new to the division after coming down a grade, so we’re just trying to find our place and find all the other sides,” Scott said. “It’s still a few games away until we can start to assess the competition, so we’ll be expecting a tough fight for sure and we’ve got to make sure that we bring similar qualities that we have this week into next week.”

Several Hume and Whittlesea soccer clubs are at risk of being ineligible to compete in the 2024 Football Victoria season, due to being in debt. Football Victoria released a statement on Tuesday saying that clubs across the state were in about $2 million debt to FV, which was an unprecedented figure. The statement read, “a significant number of clubs failed to meet their financial obligations in 2023… as a result, clubs who are unable or unwilling to meet their financial obligations will be regarded as ineligible to participate in the 2024 season.” Football Victoria listed all clubs that are financial on its website. A further 15, including National Premier League team Hume City, are on payment plans to the organisation. Tullamarine, Greenvale United and Uni Hill Eagles are also on payment arrangements with those clubs listed as compliment. Hume United, Plenty Valley Lions and Roxburgh Park United were not on the list at all, indicating they are currently not compliant. If the clubs are unable to rectify their financial situation, they would be in danger of a merger or closure ahead of the 2024 season, the statement read. “While it is expected most clubs will be able to rectify their debts ahead of season 2024, FV recognises that some clubs are not financially sustainable,” it said. “This may result in mergers, acquisitions or closures – which although challenging – would ultimately lead to stronger and more sustainable clubs who can offer a better football experience for their members and the community they serve. “This matter is of the highest importance to the players, parents, guardians and families who form the backbone of our football community. It is imperative that any registration fees you pay ensure your ability to participate in 2024. “If you pay a registration fee to a club that is in debt and in breach of its financial commitments, your funds may be unrecoverable as the club may not be fit to compete in the 2024 season.” Harper Sercombe Tuesday, 21 November, 2023 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 25

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Kangaroos confident in the chase Everything was set up for Greenvale Kangaroos to snatch its first win of the Victorian Premier Cricket season, however they were unable to do so. Last weekend, the Kangaroos were sent to the field against the Camberwell Magpies and made the most of their opportunities, dismissing the Magpies for 220 from 84 overs. “It’s always good to take 10 wickets,” Kangaroos coaching director Ash Cavigan said inbetween the two days. “For our bowling group, it was a good confidence boost for them, because it was tough going the week before down in Geelong (declared at 4-354). “It was good for that bowling attack to bounce back and good for Praveen Dilanka to get some wickets (4-41). “There was a good run out in there as well, we’re working pretty hard on our fielding at

the moment to make sure that it gets up to the standard it needs to be at this level. “So it was a good day, good result and the boys have put themselves in a really good position to chase them down and win the game.” With a young bowling attack, and a new captain at the helm, Cavigan said it has been a learning curve for the group. “It’s all new, all round,” he said. “So they’re just trying to find out what suits certain bowlers in terms of conditions and the batters they come up against and getting the combinations right. “We’re working through a lot of that at the moment, but they rock up to training and do the work and they’ve given us 100 per cent effort and that’s all we can ask for at the moment. “We’ll keep learning and getting better I hope.”

After bowling the Magpies out, it was nervy times in the Greenvale camp when Justin Galeotti and Odil Perera took to the crease to see out the final two overs of the day’s play. The Kangaroos resumed at 0-0 on Saturday. Cavigan said heading into day two that partnerships would be crucial in the run chase. The side had yet to be dismissed for less than 200, so took plenty of confidence into the second part of the run chase. The Kangaroos were unable to chase the runs down being dismissed for 154 from 74 overs. Bernard Kelly top scored with 47 not out as just three players reached double figures. The loss leaves the Kangaroos still without a win. Harper Sercombe Damith Perera (Jacob Pattison) 374043_08

Prince goes big for Bulls

Sam Gilmore kicking a goal for Heidelberg in its grand final this year (NWM Studios)

New dawn for Paradians By Harper Sercombe Old Paradians’ transfer into the Northern Football League is already paying dividends with the move inciting players and coaches to the famous club. Experienced NFL coach Ben Turner has landed at Garvey Oval and is ready to lead the club into its next era. “I’m very excited by the challenge and opportunity to coach the Old Paradians Football Club,” he said. “We kicked things off on Monday night and we had a great number on the track, we had about 60-plus that jumped on the track and got things started for us which was great to see. “There were a variety of types there, we had long serving players, we had guys that are only sort of new to the football club and we had a number of new players join us on the track so the feeling was good.” Two of the fresh faces on the track were prized brother-recruits, Sam and Will Gilmore. Sam is a three-time NFL division 1 premiership player with Heidelberg, including as premiership captain the last two seasons. He is also a two-time Frank Rosbrook Medal winner and three-time team of the year member. While Will is returning to the Paradians as a multiple best and fairest winner and 26 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 21 November, 2023

member of the Victorian Amateur Football Association team of the year. “It’s awesome, it’s a great endorsement for our football club,” Turner said. ‘It’s a great opportunity for us to be able to dig into their experiences and their journeys... [I’m] very excited and very lucky to have been able to secure both of their services.” The acquisition of the Gilmore brothers and Turner himself was only made possible thanks to the transfer of leagues the club has gone through. Turner said the move was made for the betterment of the football club, which felt like it wasn’t probably weren’t performing as best as it could whilst in the VAFA. “A fresh start in the Northern Football League was probably going to revitalise and rejuvenate many people involved at the football club,” he said. “With player retention and encouraging other players to come to the football club, and now with some higher profile recruits jumping on board, it feels like this move has been a really timely one.” Success has followed Turner around the NFL, from his time at Greensborough, to Lower Plenty and more recently at Banyule. Now, he is hoping to take his experience in the league and share it with some of the players who are less familiar with it. “I think that’s important, looking around at the group last night, we’ve got a number

of boys that have been part of the amateur competition and haven’t necessarily had the exposure to the northern league,” he said. “I feel like we’ve got enough there, to have us covered for the move, and I’ve coached in the league so I’ve got an understanding of how things operate.” While Turner said player retention has been fantastic to go with the clubs’ recruits, he is still on the lookout for some more players to help fill some gaps within the list. Former Eltham vice-captain Kyle O’Sullivan was announced as a new signing on Tuesday. “We’ve been building nicely with recruiting, and we’ve been able to attract a variety of different players from other clubs,” Turner said. “We’ll continue to do so up until the season starts and we want to encourage anyone who wants to represent the club to come down to training and get involved.” Heading into uncharted territories for the club provides Turner with a blank canvas and minimal expectations on the season ahead. “Being placed in division 3, ultimately we just want to be as competitive as we can be on a weekly basis,” he said. “We want to be difficult to play against and whatever part of the ladder that means we fall upon, for us it’s about building. “There’s no bold expectations here.”

Bundoora’s Talwinder Prince was the star of the show in the opening round of the Northern Region T20 competition on Tuesday night. The Bulls opening batsmen smashed 100 against Bundoora Park to help guide his side 5-222 of its 20 overs. The Thunderbolts pushed the Bulls total but ultimately fell short, finishing 8-191. Bronson Hill top scored with an unbeaten 83. Shupinder Taggar took three wickets for the Bulls. Mernda recovered from a poor start with the bat to beat Laurimar in its match. The Demons were in trouble at 5-18 before scrambling to make 6-106 from their overs. Michael Edwards top scored with 35. Travis Baker took 3-17 for the Power. The Power were in trouble early in its run chase and never recovered, finishing 8-101. James Baker took 4-7 off his four overs. Epping had a big win to open its account against the Lalor Stars. Most of the Pingers batsmen got a start, with the Pingers making 6-242 with skipper Josh Henkel top scoring with 81. The Stars never looked likely in the run chase, finishing 8-125. Bundoora United made light work of its run chase against Keon Park in the opening round. Keon Park started well and were 1-52 before being bowled out for 107 in the last over. Thilina Herath took 3-10 off his three overs. The Bulldogs were never in trouble in the run chase, finishing 2-108 from just 5.4 overs. Joel Thompson made 76 off just 23 balls, which included eight sixes. Lower Plenty, Old Ivanhoe Grammarians, Holy Trinity, Eltham, Greensborough, Plenty, North and Eltham Wanderers. Rivergum was among the teams with a bye in the opening round. Round two of the pool matches is scheduled for November 28 and round three is on December 12. Tara Murray

SPORT After three wins, Bulldogs push for finals berth There’s a sense of determination surrounding Bundoora United this season in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Money Shield. After missing out of finals last season on percentage, the group is determined to bounce back this season and again push for finals. The Bulldogs have started the season strongly and now have three wins from their first five games. Bulldogs captain Joel Thompson said the group was keen to atone for last season. “The end of last year burned all winter for us,” he said. “Finals are where the team wants to be playing, so to miss out narrowly is a massive drive for us.” The Bulldogs made light work of their run chase against Banyule on day two of their match on Saturday. Having restricted Banyule to 148, the Bulldogs resumed at 2-21. The Bulldogs were able to build some partnerships early on day two and when they lost a wicket it didn’t come

in clumps. It didn’t take long for the runs to be chased down, with the Bulldogs finishing 5-150 in just 44 overs. Luke Joyce top scored, finishing 47 not out. Thompson said it was one of those matches that they needed to win. “It was a good opportunity to chase down a small total,” he said. “They are the ones that are challenging to get the job done. That’s the pleasing factor and with the ladder so close, winning those low scoring games will go a long way to get us back into finals contention.” Thompson said things were tracking along really well throughout the club. Chris Daw has taken over the coaching role from Thompson. “He has been doing a wonderful job for us,” he said. “It’s a really fun environment and training numbers are really strong which we didn’t really see in the past on Tuesday nights.

“We’re seeing 30-40 players and that rolls into Saturday. All four teams had a win on Saturday and that is a reflection of that.” Thompson said while he’s no longer coaching, he was still spending plenty of time about the club helping out the committee and other areas behind the scenes. With the side sitting fifth after five rounds, Thompson said the focus was to continue momentum into the Christmas break. “We want to get into a good position before Christmas,” he said. “We still don’t know the fixture for after Christmas. “We want to be in a good position at Christmas which makes it more relaxing.” In other matches, Eltham beat Montmorency, Lalor Stars lost against Plenty, Lower Eltham was way too good for Bundoora Park and Greensborough beat Laurimar. Tara Murray Bundoora United’s Myer Zealley. (Shawn Smits) 205847_03

Briefs Soccer Roxburgh Park United’s Danella Butrus has been named in the Junior Matildas training camp squad as the side prepares for the AFC under-17 Women’s Asian Cup. The 24-player squad will spend this week at a training camp at the Australian Institute of Sport.

EDFL The Essendon District Football League has released dates for its women’s competitions for next year. The season proper will kick off in April, but there are some Good Friday games played beforehand on March 29. The season will run until August, with the structures still to be determined. If division’s have equal numbers, sides will play 14 games each, with a three-week final series involving the top four teams.

DVCA

Amy Gaylor (right) (Joe Mastroianni). 265355_35

Young gun is now a Don

Bundoora and Epping both suffered losses in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Barclay Shield on Saturday. Having made 9-164 against the North Eltham Wanderers, the Bulls were unable to stop the Wanderers top order which finished 1-167 in reply. The Pingers failed to chase down Heidelberg’s 218, bowled out for 179. The Pingers sit second on the table and Bundoora bottom.

EDFL By Harper Sercombe Calder Cannons midfielder Amy Gaylor has joined Essendon’s AFLW list as an expansion club pre-signing. The Bombers announced on Friday that Gaylor had agreed to join the Bombers ahead of the draft next month. An inside player with slick skills and clean hands, the 18-year-old impressed in her six Coates Talent League games in 2023, averaging 17 disposals and seven tackles per game despite missing most of the season through injury. Rewarded for her return from injury with an appearance in Vic Metro’s final match of the 2023 season, Gaylor accumulated 10 disposals and six tackles in a win over Vic Country. Gaylor’s physical attributes make her an enticing prospect for the Bombers. She recorded the highest vertical leaps at the 2023 draft combine and performed strongly in both speed and endurance testing. “It’s pretty amazing, I’m pretty excited to be

at the Essendon Football Club, it’s a great club and I can’t wait to meet all the other girls and get started,” Gaylor said via a video released by the Bombers. “At the start of the year I had a knee injury, it was an expected ACL but we went to surgery and it turned out it wasn’t, so it was great news. “But obviously that three month span was pretty tough, with footy being my outlet, especially in year 12, so that was pretty tough, but after the surgery I had six weeks to get back for the Vic Metro game. “So I worked my ass off and it paid off I guess.” With Essendon coming off the back of a maiden finals appearance in just its second season within the AFLW, Gaylor said she can’t wait to get stuck in for next season. “You can tell from the group that all of the players are driven and especially being led by Bonnie [Toogood] and Steph [Cain],” she said. “They look like they push each other each

and every day, so I’m really excited to get into that. “I think that’s part of my identity, working hard and determined and to be the best, so I think I’ll fit in well. AFLW list and recruiting manager Georgia Harvey is excited to see Gaylor join a budding young Essendon list ahead of 2024. Gaylor was rated one of the highest prospects heading into the season and was part of the AFLW academy. “We’re really pleased to welcome Amy to the football club,” Harvey said. “Amy is a player that we’ve tracked for several years through the talent pathways at junior level. She has some really exciting attributes that will complement our list moving forward. “She has genuine speed but is also aerobically well-balanced, so we look forward to developing her further in our program.” Gaylor’s local club is Strathmore and she was part of the club’s Essendon District Football League division 1 women’s premiership in 2022.

The EDFL has confirmed the 2024 season dates for the senior men’s football competitions. The season will again run from April to September in all three competitions, with Good Friday games to take place on March 29. Premier division sides will again play 18 games with the top five sides to play finals, a change from the normal top four With division 1 being an 11-team competition and division 2 being a nine-team competition, each side will play 16 games. Division 1 will remain a top five finals series and division 2 will remain top four. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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