Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 5th December 2023 by Star Weekly

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2W MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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Wrapping up a busy year As we approach the end of a very busy year, it’s a great opportunity to join friends and family during the holiday season. The Albanese Labor Government has spent the year delivering on our promises – and we haven’t wasted a day. We know that Australians are doing it tough. The cost of living is straining household budgets. That’s why both in Canberra and here at home, I’ve been fighting for our community in Hawke. We’re delivering our $23 billion ten-point plan to help ease cost of living pressures. This is already benefitting locals in our electorate of Hawke, including cheaper childcare for 6,800 families, more Medicare bulk-billing appointments for 83,000 people, cheaper medicines for 23,000 people and free TAFE. The state and federal Labor governments have also partnered to invest $20 million to kickstart the Western Freeway Upgrade between Melton and Caroline Springs – with community consultation open until Sunday 10 December. Have your say on this vital project by visiting the Engage Victoria website. If you or your family need any assistance with federal government matters, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team by calling (03) 9070 1960 or via email at Sam.Rae.MP@aph.gov.au. We can help with issues such as Centrelink, NDIS, Immigration and more. Take care and I hope you get to spend some quality time with your loved ones over summer.

A day for festive cheer The Rehmat Sandhu Foundation is inviting the community to join its annual Christmas celebration at Hannah Watts Park on Sunday, December 9. A full day of free festivities is planned from 10.30am to 3.30pm that will include a range of activities including face painting, music and balloon art, free food with a barbecue, fairy floss, ice cream and popcorn. There will also be Christmas giveaways, a gift for all children who attend and a visit from Santa Claus. The Rehmat Sandhu Foundation is a Melton-based charity that supports people across the west who are living with disability, struggling financially, experiencing domestic violence and much more. Foundation founder Ravinder Kaur said the team has been working to make each Christmas celebration better than the last.

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The Rehmat Sandhu Foundation gearing up for Christmas celebrations. (Supplied)

“The foundation likes to put on a Christmas celebration because they believe in working selflessly and giving back to the community,” she said. “They understand the importance of spreading joy and happiness, especially during the holiday season. “We are excited to see the smiles on the children’s faces and to create a magical and festive atmosphere for everyone involved.” Ms Kaur extended a warm invitation to the Melton community to join in on the day. “This event is not only for the children but for everyone in the community to come together and celebrate the joyous spirit of the holiday season,” she said. “We have planned a range of activities and entertainment that will surely bring a smile to your face and create lasting memories. “So, mark your calendars and join us for a day filled with fun, laughter, and festive cheer.”

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 3W

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Hitch a ride on the festive wagon and give generously In the spirit of giving, West Welcome Wagon (WWW) is inviting the community to join its Christmas Toy Drive, ensuring that the holidays are filled with joy for asylum seeker and refugee children. The drive, running until Friday, December 15, focuses on providing brand new gifts for more than 1000 children across all age groups, from new-borns to 17-year-olds. Amidst the challenges of navigating the cost of living and rental crises these families are facing, WWW aims to bring smiles to the faces of young ones this festive season.

‘‘

We’re running really low at the moment and we have definitely seen an increase in demand for our material - Colette McInerney aid

’’

Donations of new, unwrapped toys for all age groups (0-17) are welcome, with a special call for gifts tailored to teenage girls and boys. West Welcome Wagon chief executive Colette McInerney said the gifts will be delivered to almost 400 households that the organisation supports. “This is my first Christmas with WWW and I’ve come to learn that the public is so incredibly generous. We love the support from the west and we’re looking forward to that generosity with great appreciation,” she said. To contribute to this initiative, community members are encouraged to reach out to donate@westwelcomewagon.org.au or make

The team at West Welcome Wagon are busy wrapping presents for their Christmas Toy Drive. Pictured above: Chief executive Colette McInerney, with volunteers Carly Raymond, Josette Varga and Karen George. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 375965

a drop off directly to the WWW warehouse located at Unit 6, 42-46 Vella Drive in Sunshine West. Locals can also drop their unwrapped gifts off at Bendigo Bank in Seddon, Dr Daniel Mulino’s MP office in Sunshine, or at the Commonwealth Bank Sunshine branch.

WWW is also running a Christmas appeal for financial donations to help keep the organisation floating. “We’re running really low at the moment and we have definitely seen an increase in demand for our material aid, and for basics such as our food packs. We are hoping for

some financial donations to help us purchase other items such as fans, kitchen items, vacuum cleaners and more,” she said. Details: https://www.westwelcomewagon. org.au/

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4W MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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Puppies as Christmas presents? Maybe think twice If you’re thinking about giving your loved one a puppy as a gift this Christmas, Dogs Australia urges you to “think twice”. “Puppies can’t be exchanged, returned or put in the cupboard if the Christmas present isn’t the right fit,” said Dogs Australia president Hugh Gent. “And sadly, many impulsively bought gift puppies will end up in shelters. There’s a huge misconception that pets make great Christmas gifts when, in fact, they don’t. Sure, it’s exciting to see someone’s face when they first see their gift but once the novelty wears off and the reality of owning a dog sinks in, it’s often a different story. Owning a dog is a big responsibility. “Remember, you’re gifting an obligation – and you need to be confident the recipient will be able to provide for the dog beyond puppyhood and for many years to come. Dogs require commitment and they depend on us 24-7 for their care and they need a lot of exercise and attention.” Mr Gent said it’s best to have someone choose their own dog – if they want one – rather than selecting one you think will be a good fit as it’s crucial to ensure a good fit between dogs and their people. “Dogs have personalities just like we do, so it’s important to research the right breed that best suits your personality, your family and lifestyle,” he said. “At Dogs Australia we promote responsible dog ownership – and animal shelters are already packed with homeless animals – and sadly, since the pandemic, more dogs have been surrendered because people can’t cope with them, don’t have time to look after them, can’t afford them, or have just lost interest. Never surprise someone with a puppy – it could backfire spectacularly.”

Six reasons why you shouldn’t give a puppy as a Christmas present: 1/ Dogs are a long-term commitment. Owning a dog is more of a responsibility than a gift. 2/ Dog ownership is time intensive. A dog’s not an ornament to be left in the backyard or a toy you can play with until you get bored. 3/ Owning a dog can be expensive. A dog requires food, toys, trips to the vet, medicine, pet insurance, training, holiday boarding, grooming and more. 4/ Are you sure they want a dog? They might be allergic to dogs, not have the time or patience to care for a dog, can’t afford to care for a dog, do a lot of traveling, and they might not even like dogs! 5/ You might accidentally end up buying from a puppy farm. If you are excited by the idea of buying a puppy as a Christmas gift, you might accidentally end up buying from an illegal puppy farm rather than a legitimate, reputable breeder. 6/ Returning the dog could jeopardise its life. If your loved one doesn’t want a puppy, they might end up surrendering it to a pet shelter.

Owning a dog is more of a responsibility than a gift. Not only do they need a lot of care and training, but they also come with a lot of expenses.

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’Tis the season in Melton and Moorabool to be merry ‘Tis the season for Christmas events in Melton and Moorabool, and the two council areas have a range of festive activities the whole family can get involved in. In the coming week, there’s Diggers Rests’ Community Carols at the primary school on the 7th, and on the 9th Cobblebank is hosting Santa’s Roadshow, Caroline Springs is hosting Carols by Candlelight at the lake foreshore and Christmas in the Park will be held at Adelong Way Park, Bacchus Marsh. The festivities will continue into the following week with Christmas at Bridge Road Community Centre with Western Health on the 13th, the Bacchus Marsh Carols by Candlelight Festival and Christmas Carols at Maddingley Park on the 16th and Hillside Village’s Christmas Family Day as well as the Diggers Rest Toy Run on the 17th. Cyclo Illuminato will hit Bacchus Marsh and Ballan on the 8th and 16th respectively, and Santa and his helper will be in the two areas for the family to meet on the 9th and the 15th. Up until the 15th households can enter the Melton Learning Directory Christmas Lights Competition, which is is giving away prizes across three categories for the most traditional, colourful or energy efficient light display. Each winner will receive a $250 voucher to a local restaurant to enjoy a meal with family and friends. Melton Mayor Cr Kathy Majdlik said Christmas is one of the best times of the year for family and friends to get together and enjoy all the wonderful celebrations. ‘‘We have put together a packed program where family and friends can enjoy each other’s company and celebrate being together at this special time of the year,” she said. “Let us not forget that Jesus is the reason for

the season.” Moorabool mayor Ally Munari said council is excited to have many festive local events and attractions in the lead up to Christmas. “We’ll have our amazing Christmas trees that

have been decorated by local primary school children dotted throughout the shire,” she said. “There will be free activities run by our libraries and youth teams, as well as plenty of external activities including markets, musicians

and carols. We encourage residents to check out our website so they don’t miss out on celebrating and spreading Christmas cheer.” Details: https://ow.ly/JlVj50QeRF2 and https://www.moorabool.vic.gov.au/Events

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6W MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

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A lesson in payphone use Grandchildren nationwide can now connect directly to the North Pole with Telstra’s Free Calls to Santa until December 24, by dialling # HO HO HO (#464646) for free from any of Telstra’s 14,500 payphones across Australia to speak directly with Santa. Telstra’s Free Calls to Santa hotline is an interactive activity that allows children to enjoy the magical experience of speaking directly with Santa about anything they want, from asking about the weather in the North Pole, to what the reindeer like to snack on before their big Christmas Eve adventure, and even share this year’s wish list. For those looking to avoid shopping centre crowds with their grandchildren, dialling Santa from any payphone across the country offers an easy and cost-free alternative. Plus, taking kids to a payphone to call Santa is a great way to teach them how to use and locate their nearest payphone in case of an emergency. Last year there were more than 11,000 calls made from Telstra payphones to the North Pole on Christmas Eve alone. This year Santa’s elves have also helped us liven up a special selection of payphones. Here are some handy payphone tips this holiday season. For kids, calling Santa also provides a fun and easy way to learn how to use and locate their nearest payphone in case of an emergency.

Some handy tips: • Use Free Calls to Santa to show kids how a payphone works and remind them that they can use one when it’s needed. • Fun fact: Every payphone has a unique number you can dial from your mobile. This is a great way to show kids what an old-fashioned phone sound like. How to call Santa: 1/ Head to any Telstra payphone around the country from November 15 to December 24. 2/ To find your nearest payphone, hit search on Google Maps – for example- Payphones Melbourne CBD and surrounds - Google My Maps 3/ Dial #HO HO HO (#464646) 4/ Make sure you’re ready with a few questions for Santa, and to tell him what’s at the top of your wish list.

A message from Santa and a lesson in life.

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With gifts to bear Melton Red Cross Trauma Teddies has received a funding boost to continue providing children comfort in moments of hardship. Over 30 years the charity has hand-knitted thousands of bears and donated them to local medical centres, pathology clinics, and police stations. On Tuesday, November 28, Djerriwarrh Masonic Lodge gave the group a holiday funding boost with a $700 donation. Red Cross Melton Trauma Teddies coordinator Jean Dickson said the donation would provide wool, needles and continued help with more much-needed teddies. “We have delivered many teddies to Bacchus Marsh Hospital, for Torres Strait Island relief and fire relief. I receive great feedback from the staff at pathology departments and medical centres, this gives me a lot of personal satisfaction,” she said. Djerriwarrh Lodge worshipful master Trevor Rosan said the teddies are a valuable community resource. “The relief it brings to kids under trauma is big - they love a teddy to cuddle when they’re in strife, it’s a natural response, give them teddy and they feel better,” he said.

Ethiopian church denied By Liam McNally Melton council has stood by its decision not to grant an Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahido Church (EOTC) a permit to convert a Strathulloh property into a place of worship. In 2021, the Melton EOTC, whose members currently travel to Tottenham to congregate, purchased a property on Ferris Road for $2.65 million with the intention of using it as a place of worship. The land sits in a Green Wedge Zone which allows for places of worship to be built on a

discretionary basis, decided by the council. EOTC committee member Endalkachew Aragaw said church leaders were assured in 2021 that securing a permit would pose no significant challenges, which was crucial to their decision to purchase the land. Mr Aragaw said the decision to knock back the permit had left the congregation deeply disheartened. The application sought to convert a shed on the property, adding three domes reaching 6.6 metres, adding a 30-space parking area, and a toilet block.

“The strong sense of disappointment is accompanied by a feeling of exclusion from being an integral part of the Melton City Council community,” Mr Aragaw said. “We believe in the importance of being included and contributing positively to the community. The rejection has created a sense of disconnect and frustration and even feeling discriminated against, as we seek not just to build a place of worship but also to actively participate and contribute to the broader community.” At a council meeting in October, the

council rejected the permit application after then-mayor Lara Carli used her casting vote to reject the permit. Councillors Sophie Ramsey, Goran Kesic and Bob Turner were absent from the meeting. The council received 194 submissions in support and 79 objections, with the objectors main concerns involving increased noise, traffic and safety concerns, building appearance, residential amenity, inadequate streets and property values. ■ Continued: Page 5

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Latest build plan for rocky road By Liam McNally A new plan to upgrade Troups Road South has been committed to by Melton council, following its last plan being rejected by Melbourne Water. Troups Road South is an unsealed road located in Mount Cottrell on the border of the Melton and Wyndham municipalities, that residents have been calling on council to fix for a number of years. In the past year, the council has completed two intersection upgrades on the road, but

sealing the road stalled due to Melbourne Water rejecting the plan, which the council website said was due to a minor increase in the potential flood impact on some adjoining properties. At a council meeting on Monday, November 27, the council decided on a new plan to seal and stabilise the stretch between Boundary and Greigs roads the next 18 months. The southern end of the road will remain closed while this process takes place. The heavy stabilisation and spray seal will include road widening and is expected to cost $4.5 million and have a life expectancy of five

to 10 years. Troups Road South resident Michelle Spiteri said residents are happy for progress but are sceptical due to previous delays. “We’ve been through this process already… it’s just a stabilisation and seal… they are going to need to be maintained but it’s better than the dust and the mud and the highly unsafe conditions we have now,” she said. “It’s encouraging that things are moving but the construction of Troups Road South is 10 years too late. “These [surrounding] developments should

not have been given the green light without proper road access… people are driving on goat tracks in the fastest growing municipality in all of Australia.” Ms Spiteri said there have already been fatalities on the road and hopes it won’t be too little, too late. “Everything around me has changed in 32 years [of living here] except for the road,” she said. “It’s about a safe traffic network. If our cars have to be road worthy our roads should have to be car worthy.”

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Melton Swim Club head coach Robert Neilson with some of the members. (Damjan Janevski) 374721_03

Swim club seeking more to dive in The Melton Swimming Club has been struggling to keep numbers buoyant since COVID and it’s inviting the Melton and Moorabool community to dive into swim sports this summer. The club provides swimmers living in Melton, Bacchus Marsh and surrounding areas, year round access to competitive swimming opportunities at district, state, national and even international levels. Club president Ken Linder said that pre-pandemic the club boasted more than 120 members, but now there are just 56. “Membership numbers dropped dramatically during the COVID pandemic,” he said.

“Unlike outdoor sports who were allowed to return to the field in limited capacity during the 2020 and 2021 lulls in the pandemic, swimming was completely shut down for around 12 months. “Following the pandemic the cost of living has resulted in discretionary spending being reduced, further impacting on membership numbers.” Mr Linder said the lower participation rates are affecting the prestige of the club. “During the peak of membership Melton Swimming Club won the metro west district male, female and overall champions for seven years running, beating larger clubs from the

district,” he said. “However the reduction in membership has significantly impacted on our younger membership, resulting in a lack of representation at this younger level, the overall result being the club taking out second place at district championships this year. “Swimming is a lifelong skill that can also be an enjoyable and rewarding sport. Joining the Melton Swimming Club will provide the opportunity to further your love of the sport while being recognised for your successes in competition.” Details: http://www.meltonswimmingclub. com.au/

Telstra mobile coverage will be disrupted in Moorabool and Melton while the company upgrades two stations. Telstra will be upgrading its mobile base station in Balliang East to provide better 4G and 5G connectivity until December 8. There will be no mobile coverage from this site in the four days prior, and then on December 11 there will be further disruptions while integration and call testing is performed. Similar works works will be taking place at the Toolern Vale mobile base station, resulting in it being out of service on from December 12 to 15. The station will be back online for the weekend and then out again on December 18 when, weather permitting, the work will be completed. Any calls to Triple-0 from a Telstra mobile while the site is off air will be automatically diverted to any working mobile connection. Telstra regional general manager Steve Tinker said while Telstra’s crews need to work during daylight, but will only be turning off the site when they need to and will have it back on as quickly as possible. “There’s never a good time to undertake this sort of work but once it’s completed, it will mean better mobile services for local residents,” he said

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Council rate debt is on the rise By Liam McNally The amount of households owing property rate fees to Melton council more than tripled within nine months between September 2022 and June. At September last year, 4675 households owed council a combined $11.33 million dollars in rates and by June 30 this figure jumped to $22.8 million from 14,416 properties. The latest figures from September 30, show rates debt has dropped since June, however the number of households owing is still almost

double what it was 12 months prior. More than $16 million was owed in rate debt from among 8168 properties on September 30 this year. Melton council organisation performance director Peter Leerson said residents have told council that increasing interest rates and cost of living increases to items such as utility bills, food and petrol are the main causes of any financial pressure they are feeling. Mr Leerson said the council is committed to supporting its rate-paying residents who are experiencing financial difficulties,

through payment arrangements or short-term extensions and understanding their circumstances to support them in the most appropriate way. “Anyone experiencing financial difficulties can speak with us on the financial assistance options that are available.” Similar patterns have emerged in nearby Wyndham and Hume councils. A Wyndham council spokesperson said the number of households owing rate money has actually decreased since 2020, however the amount owed has risen from $18.8 million to

$34.9 million in June this year. Hume council has recorded a 60 per cent increase in rates owed since 2020, as of September 30, the value of rates outstanding was $54.50 million and at the same time last year it was $42.75 million. Hume councillor Joseph Haweil blamed the increase in council rate debt on bank interest rate rises. “[This is] through the Reserve Bank and its apparent desire to crush working people in order to achieve the economic outcomes it wishes to achieve.”

Ethiopian church denied ■ From page 1

Socio-Cultural Syriac Inc. Association president Mukhles Habash. (Damjan Janevski) 375146_02

Helping Syriacs settle in the west members only,” he said. “But after we have evaluated our capacity and found a huge need in the community, we made the decision to expand the support to the broader community and to put the support in a more professional form. “Form-filling is an issue among refugees and migrants who are new to the country, but it is more obvious among the people have language barrier and low literacy levels.” The association supports Syriac community in Victoria through supporting settlement of new arrivals and strengthen social connections among Syriac families through

Funding for tiny towns Tiny towns and communities in Moorabool can now apply for grants to create more projects and stronger local connections through the state government’s Tiny Towns Fund. Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas has called on local community groups to submit their ideas and apply for a tiny towns grant, with applications now open. “Our tiny towns have so much to offer and we’re helping them unlock new reasons for people to visit, explore, work and live in them,” she said. “From barbecues at the park to community centres, these projects will make a difference to those who need them in towns across Macedon Ranges, Hepburn, Mount Alexander and Moorabool.” The fund will offer grants between $5000 and $50,000 to deliver infrastructure projects, such

as hiking trails, splash parks, playgrounds, community hall and library upgrades, public art and more. Eligible applicants include community and non-profit groups and councils in towns with under 5000 people across regional Victoria and outer metro-Melbourne. Regional Development Minister Gayle Tierney said the fund will help attract more visitors.“Whether it’s renovations to a community centre or new barbecues at the local park, [the investment] will support local businesses and jobs, and help attract more visitors,” Ms Tierney said. “With more people than ever before choosing lifestyles away from major cities, new initiatives like Tiny Towns will help ensure regional and outer suburban communities continue to flourish.”

social programs. The group aims to preserve Syriac culture through organising and celebrating cultural events and also encourages English learning and supports civil participation to work towards a maintained integration by delivering programs that link the community with service providers and government agencies. The group operates on Saturday mornings from 9.30-11am in the Fraser Rise Children and Community Centre. Bookings can be made via WhatsApp. Details: 045768631

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A new program has been set up to aid Syriac refugees and migrants with their settlement in Melton and Brimbank. The Socio-Cultural Syriac Association’s community helpers program will assist people with free form-filling assistance from the Fraser Rise Community Centre on Saturday mornings. Association president Mukhles Habash said Syriac community is one of the most active emerging communities in Victoria and the community is mainly settling in Hume, Melton and Brimbank councils. “In the past, we were helping our association

The application was refused due to being in a Green Wedge Zone and not being consistent with the orderly planning of rural residential areas and it would have a ‘detrimental impact on residential amenity’. Now-mayor Kathy Majdlik said allowing a church in a Green Wedge Zone would set a dangerous precedent, while councillor Goran Kesic said that many of the congregation’s members arrived in Australia as refugees fleeing conflict, and establishing a church in Melton would reflect the resilient and devout nature of the community. Councillor Steve Abboushi raised a motion to rescind the decision at the November 27 council meeting which was supported by councillors Sophie Ramsey and Goran Kesic. He said at the October meeting that the council had already set a precedent by approving other places of worship in Green Wedge Zones, and he has a fundamental issue with communities objecting to places of worship in residential zones. Councillors Abboushi and Ramsay weren’t at the meeting to vote on the motion and neither was councillor Ashleigh Vandenberg, who supported granting a permit at the October meeting. The recission motion, which was raised before a large crowd of supporters and objectors, was defeated 4-2. Cr Carli backed council’s original decision saying it has caused so much angst in the community and the recession motion was a “waste of time”. Mr Aragaw said they intend to take the matter to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

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Alarm sounded over GP taxes A Melton councillor has raised concern over how payroll taxes on GP clinics may impact access to medical care in the municipality. At a council meeting on Monday, November 27, councillor Justine Farrugia moved for council to write to the state Health Minister to enquire if the state government is doing anything to minimise the impact of a “payroll tax increase” in Melton “I know many residents within our municipality who have three or four doctors clinics on the go, as they cannot get an appointment for them or their family when they really need it, when they are very ill,” she said. “Increased payroll tax will only further

add to the lack of appointment availability, particularly at bulk billed clinics, making it difficult for our residents to get medical care when they need it most and affordably, particularly with increased pressures of cost of living.” While payroll taxes on GP clinics aren’t strictly increasing the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has been campaigning against what it calls a new interpretation of the Payroll Tax Act. RACGP Victoria Faculty chair Dr Anita Munoz said that until two years ago clinics operating under a tenant doctor model were not prosecuted under that act. “We are now getting clinic after clinic

contacting our peak bodies saying that where never before they had a problem, they are now being notified by the State Revenue Office, that they are liable for payroll tax,” she said. “We continue to hold the position that GPs are not employees of clinics and the relationship between tenant doctors and clinics is one of service provision not employer employee. “If the [State Revenue Office] applied a retrospective tax bill on clinics in the Melton area there will be some closures of some clinics… general practice operates on very small margins and those businesses simply will not be able to pay enormous retrospective tax bills for five years of tax plus fine.”

Dr Munoz said GP clinics will have to collect the money directly from patients because the businesses cannot absorb the cost. “And in collecting the money directly from patients we will no longer be able to bulk bill them because the Health Insurance Act says that is not permissible. So we will see the end of bulk billing in those areas.” According to the state government the number of SRO payroll tax investigations into general practice medical services is almost half what it was under the previous government. A government spokesperson said there has been no change to the way payroll tax is assessed.

Women in sport breakfast

Grace and Lincoln at their Mini Market stall. (Keshi Creative)

Mini-moguls: Kids are off to market Kids in Moorabool and Melton are being given the chance to showcase their artistic flare and enterprise at the Pulse Group’s upcoming Mini Market in Bacchus Marsh. The Mini Market, being held at the Big Apple Cafe on December 16, will showcase stalls of handmade crafts created by children. The market will include t-shirt designs, woodwork and jewellery created by local kids, who are getting the chance to have the experience of a market and creating their own stall without the overheads and pressure of a

traditional market. Many stallholders and buskers have been debuting their products and music for the first time and events so far have enabled children and youth to develop confidence and connection with their local community. Arna, 14, said she will be there with her stall ‘Sew Cool Pets’ for the second time. “I started making pet bandanas for my dog, I then came up with different sizes and unique patterns,” she said. “I saw an ad for local children to participate

in a market and I thought it would be good to allow people to experience the joy of dressing up their pets. “On my first time at the market stall my sales were good which motivated me to create more so I could attend the next monthly market. “It was so nice to see the different talents emerging from young people in my local community and dressing up the dog mascot ’Floki’ was also enjoyable.” The market will be held at the Big Apple Cafe, 432 Bacchus Marsh Road, from 10am to 2pm.

Melton council is hosting a special, free breakfast to celebrate women in sport and empower the next generation of sportswomen on December 12. Speakers at the 2023 City of Melton Women In Sport Breakfast will share their stories of success, as well as the challenges they have faced and overcome to reach gender equity in their sporting code. Australian paraclimbing champion Sarah Larcombe will deliver the keynote speech. Larcombe is an elite paraclimbing athlete, scientist and disability advocate and was the first Australian to win an International Federation of Sport Climbing World Cup. The event, which is open to the whole community, is being held at Witchmount Estate, Leakes Road, Plumpton between 7.30am and 9am. Melton Mayor Kathy Majdlik said it is vitally important that all women, young or old and from any background have opportunities to participate in sport. “By encouraging women to take part in community sport, share their skills and ideas, we build stronger, more connected and resilient neighbourhoods,” she said. “As we saw with the Matildas this year, we have come a very long way in getting behind female teams and promoting female participation in sport but there is still a lot of room for growth, which is really exciting.” Details: trybooking.com/CNNAR

Council texting owners to get 20,000-plus pets registered Have you received a text from Melton council about your pet? More than 20,500 cats and dogs in the Melton municipality are microchipped but not registered, according to the council. Pet owners are being urged to register their cats and dogs so they can be quickly reunited with the furry members of their family if they go missing. Melton council is currently sending text messages to residents who have a pet who is microchipped but not yet registered with council. When council finds a lost animal, it scans for a microchip to identify the pet’s owner. Sometimes the contact details on the

microchip can be out-of-date or belong to a former owner, which causes delays in reuniting the pet with its owner. Registration means the council has a record pet’s name and contact details, so it can quickly return lost pets to their owners. It also helps keep the community safe. If your dog or cat is more than three months of age, it is a legal obligation to ensure your pet is microchipped and registered with council. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said pet owners can heavily boost the chances of being quickly reunited with their lost furry friends if their dogs and cats are registered with council. “Owning a pet brings enormous benefits but

it also comes with responsibilities, including the requirement to register your dog and cat with your council,” she said. “Often lost pets end up in animal shelters because the owners haven’t had them microchipped, registered with council or updated their contact details. “Pets are part of the family, and we want to ensure we can reunite pet owners with their furry friends as quickly as possible, that’s why it is so important to register your pets.” Details: melton.vic.gov.au/petrego Melton residents are being urged to register their pets. (Unsplash/Andrew S) Tuesday, 5 December, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 7

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Battery one of biggest in world By Liam McNally with AAP Construction has begun on one of the world’s biggest battery facilities for storing renewable energy in Fraser Rise. Premier Jacinta Allan and State Electricity Commission (SEC) Minister Lily D’Ambrosio turned the first sod on the $1 billion Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub on Thursday, November 30. The hub on Holden Road will comprise three battery components totalling 600 megawatts in size, and is being developed in partnership with renewable energy investor Equis Australia.

Once complete, the hub will provide 1.6 gigawatt hours of energy storage, enough to power up to 200,000 homes during peak periods, which Ms Allan said is roughly around the size of Geelong and Ballarat combined. It will be the largest system in the southern hemisphere and third largest in the world. The hub is expected to be operational by 2025, when it will start storing excess rooftop solar and surplus energy from the grid, providing extra power to meet Victoria’s growing demand. The state government is targeting 95 per cent renewable energy generation by 2035.

Ms D’Ambrosio said the hub will meet a quarter of Victoria’s target of 2.6 gigawatts of energy storage capacity by 2030. Victoria’s state-owned electricity assets were privatised in the 1990s, before last year’s Victorian state election, Labor promised to bring back the SEC if it secured a third term. It earmarked an initial investment of $1 billion towards renewable energy projects overseen by the commission to deliver 4.5 gigawatts of power to replace the state’s aging coal-fired power stations. Ms D’Ambrosio said the commission, which received more than 100 registrations of interest

for its first investment, would own 38.5 per cent of the battery project. “We’ve made a commitment that across the entire 4.5 gigawatt portfolio... The SEC would have majority control that is 51 per cent,” she said. “That will grow as new projects are in.” A press release from when Labor announced the return of the SEC said “the government will own a majority in each new project”. Opposition Leader John Pesutto said it amounted to a broken promise. “This is not a government-owned project,” he said.

Crackdown on councillors

The St Albans Lunar Festival, 2022. (Supplied)

Summer scales up in the west December is here and with it comes the holiday season and a plethora of activities and events for people to get involved in across Melbourne’s west this December and January. Western Melbourne Tourism executive officer Richard Ponsford said as summer warms up, Melbourne’s west is coming to life with a fantastic array of events and experiences. “There is a great energy across the west,” he said. “The region is set to offer a relaxed and enjoyable summer holiday season for everyone. Outdoor cinema, bars are buzzing or simply enjoy the beautiful twilight evenings along the rivers, or at the beach. “The west really kicks into life in early 2024

with the Lunar New Year events, particularly the St Albans Lunar Year festival in early January.“ ALWAYS LIVE and Metro Trains kick off the action with End of The Line in Williamstown on December 9. The free family-friendly festival brings together the best local talent together with performances from Alex Lahey, Eliott, Meghna and Philly at Commonwealth Reserve. Also on the 9th is Wyndham’s Carols By Candlelight at the beautiful Werribee Mansion, and later on Christmas Eve is the Eynesbury December Christmas Market. Footscray’s Night Market is on Fridays throughout December, and then you can

bring in the new year at Footscray Park with carnival rides and stellar performances including Regurgitator. Moving into January, SO FRENCHY SO CHIC hits Werribee Park on the 14th. The event connects France to Australia through French contemporary music, gastronomy, fashion and lots of Champagne. On January 21 Melbourne’s largest and longest-running Lunar New Year Festival, is back to usher in the Year of the Dragon. The St Albans Lunar Festival, which began in 1998, has grown into a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity, attracting over 80,000 guests and showcasing the rich multicultural tapestry of the St Albans community.

Melton and Moorabool councils have welcomed coming state legislation aimed at improving the performance and accountability of councillors across the state. Local Government Minister Melissa Horne announced legislation to be introduced early next year that will include mandatory training for elected representatives, a uniform councillor code of conduct and strengthened powers for the minister to address councillor conduct. “Victorians rightly have high expectations of their local councillors and these changes will ensure residents can have confidence their best interests are being served,” she said. Reforms will give the minister the ability to suspend or disqualify individual councillors found to have created a risk to health and safety or prevented the council from performing its function. The chief municipal inspector will also have enhanced powers, including the ability to issue infringement notices. Almost 30 councillors have resigned across the state since January, while municipal monitors have been appointed as an urgent intervention to protect local communities eight times in 18 months. The amendments to the Local Government Act 2020 will address recommendations made by integrity bodies such as the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) and the Chief Municipal Inspector. Moorabool mayor Ally Munari said council understands why the state government has introduced changes. “Hopefully we’ll see good results relating to this once the legislation is implemented,” she said. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said council looks forward to seeing the proposed legislation when it is introduced.

Developers seeking bump in land sales for Christmas Developers are boosting buyer incentives in the western growth corridor as they look to shift stock in the lead up to Christmas according to RPM Group. The move follows new RPM figures showing sales in the western corridor, which includes the local government areas of Melton and Wyndham, falling by 6 per cent in the September quarter to 765 lots, a 33 per cent decline from the same quarter last year. The median lot price rose slightly by 0.6 per cent to $385,000 while the median lot size was stable at 350sqm.

The decline in sales mirrored that of the broader Melbourne and Geelong growth areas where sales fell 6 per cent to 2,023 lots in the September quarter, as prospective buyers faced a multitude of hurdles from reduced borrowing capacity through to stubborn inflation and cost of living pressures. New supply in the western corridor fell sharply by 22 per cent to just 611 new lots, which is the lowest figure since the third quarter of 2013. RPM project marketing national managing director Luke Kelly, said the slowing rate of lot

absorption had pushed developers to hold off releasing new land. “New supply is now at a low, which is concerning for the future as there won’t be a pipeline of land ready to go when the market turns,” he said. “Owner occupiers made up just 59 per cent of purchasers in the west – the equal lowest proportion of the four growth areas and indicative of the challenges buyers are facing in the current market. “However, on a positive note first-home buyers made up 68 per cent of all owner

occupier buyers, demonstrating there are still opportunities for buyers to take that first step on the property ladder.” Mr Kelly said developers in the western corridor were focused on shifting titled stock and doing deals in the weeks leading up to Christmas, a positive for qualified buyers. “Developers have less than two months to shift the titled stock on their books which has led to a significant increase in incentives being offered to buy now, which are sitting in the range of 5 to 10 per cent off the headline price,” he said.

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5 December 2023

Mayor’s message Cr Kathy Majdlik

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

Melton City Council is committed to creating a city that celebrates diversity and is inclusive for everyone living with a disability and their families.

Christmas Lights competition

Library staff learn AUSLAN

The popular Christmas Lights competition is on again.

Staff at libraries in the City of Melton and Council Customer Service Officers recently completed level 1 in AUSLAN training.

The Melton Learning Directory Christmas Lights Competition is giving away prizes in three categories for the most traditional, colourful or energy efficient light display. The winner in each category will receive a $250 voucher to a local restaurant to enjoy a meal with family and friends.

The sessions ran for four weeks and covered the basics of AUSLAN conversation and terminology, the origins of the language, barriers the Deaf community face and what hearing people can do to better accommodate Deaf people.

To learn how to enter and safety tips for you light display, visit the Melton Learning Directory website. The Competition closes at 5pm, Friday, 15 December.

Emerging artists work on show

Staff can now have basic conversations in AUSLAN with members about their lives, reading and accessibility requirements. Next time you’re at the library, put our staff’s AUSLAN skills to the test, they would love to have a conversation with you.

The Ascent 2023 exhibition is showcasing the artwork and design of 25 emerging artists from the City of Melton. The artists are all in year 10 and the works include drawing, painting, ceramics, mixed media and photography. Ascent is a celebration of the creativity, ingenuity and unique perspectives of local emerging talent and is running until 14 December at CS Gallery, 193-201 Caroline Springs Blvd, Caroline Springs. Visit melton.vic.gov.au/ascent2023 for details.

Coburn Ward with Cr Julie Shannon I’d like to express my thanks to the community for their support during my time as Deputy Mayor. I relished serving you and look forward to continuing to do so as your elected Coburn ward Councillor. Copper theft is a serious issue throughout Victoria. In 2018, the government passed a law prohibiting dealers from paying cash for scrap metal to minimise the risk of illegal activity. Not all states have similar legislation, reducing the effectiveness of Victoria’s laws. A consistent, nation-wide

approach to reduce the risk of copper theft is required. At our October Council Meeting, I put forward a Notice of Motion requesting Council write to the Minister for Crime Prevention, requesting advice on actions being taken to minimise the risk of copper theft; and where legislation does not exist in other States, write to Ministers requesting they introduce similar laws. Officers are actioning this Notice of Motion, and I will keep you updated on outcomes in future Ward Talks. Finally, I attended a Walk With Her event last week, where we shone a

spotlight on violence against women. Around two-in-five women have experienced violence since the age of 15, with at least one woman killed by an intimate partner each week. Support services are available if you are experiencing family violence. Visit vic.gov.au/family-violence-support. If someone is in immediate danger, call triple zero (000) and ask for police. Feel free to contact me regarding Coburn Ward or Council related issues on 0499 801 302; email: Julie. shannon@melton.vic.gov.au or like my Facebook page @ julieshannonformelton

As the mother of a daughter who lives with disability, I was extremely proud to open a Changing Places facility at the Caroline Springs Leisure Centre in the lead up to International Day of People with Disability on 3 December. More than 326,000 Victorians rely on Changing Places toilets, and we now have four in our city. The others are at Melton Waves, Cobblebank Stadium and the Melton Library and Learning Hub. This will now also be a standard feature in all major council facilities. Changing Places provide facilities for people living with a disability – who cannot use standard, accessible toilets – to ensure they can attend and participate in community activities. They are a welcoming and inclusive place that allows them to change and use the bathroom and, importantly, provides them with dignity and support. Inclusive recreational facilities like these mean people with disability can participate more fully in their community and can lead healthier, happier lives with their friends, family and carers. Does your sports club, community group or organisation have an initiative you think Council should deliver in the 2024/25 budget? We are inviting organisations and residents to tell us what projects should be considered in the 2024/25 budget. You can submit your proposal until 17 December at: melton.vic.gov.au/ budgetideas You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.

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

Mayor Cr Kathy Majdlik

Deputy Mayor Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Lara Carli

Cr Justine Farrugia

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all 12587385-KG49-23

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Hit and run Police are seeking public assistance after a Hillside woman was injured in a hit-run in St Albans earlier this month. It is believed the driver of a white Nissan X-Trail SUV was travelling along Main Road East when they struck a pedestrian at the intersection of McKechnie Street about 10.50am on November 15. The victim, a 49-year-old Hillside woman, sustained serious injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment. The driver of the Nissan SUV stopped briefly to check on the pedestrian and then fled the scene. Police have released a CCTV image of a vehicle believed to have been involved. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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NEWS

Big W Woodgrove staff Tarin, Bridgette, Frank and Angela. (Jacob Pattison) 375729_03

A tree for festive giving BIG W shoppers in Melton will once again be able to donate to the annual Giving Tree at Woodgrove Shopping Centre. The spirit of the Giving Tree invites customers to share in the spirit of Christmas and support families doing it tough this year. From now until Christmas Eve, customers can place an unwrapped gift under the Giving Tree. BIG W has partnered with Good360 Australia to match all 177 stores with a local charity. This year the Giving Tree will support 106 organisations across Australia including women’s shelters, youth centres, homeless shelters and children in hospital. In 2022, the Giving Tree initiative saw BIG W customers and staff collect and distribute over 10,000 gifts nationwide, with popular donations including toys, books, games,

Have your say on reserve

stationary and puzzles. In addition to The Giving Tree Initiative, BIG W is once again also supporting five children’s hospitals around the country by selling $2 and $5 tokens to raise much needed funds for life saving and life changing programs. The Victorian proceeds of the tokens will benefit the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI). Big W managing director Dan Hake said it has been a challenging year for many Aussie families and the Giving Tree is a way to support people in the community who need it most. “Our goal is to help as many families as possible experience the joy and spirit of Christmas this year,” he said. “With many households finding it tough, we want our customers to know that even the smallest gift can still make a big difference.”

A concept sketch has been created for the future of the Mclean Reserve and Moorabool council is keen to hear the community’s thoughts. The concept was developed based on internal stakeholder input and community feedback from phase one of the community consultation. Responses can be made online until Sunday, December 17. Details: https://moorabool.engagementhub. com.au/mclean-reserve-phase2

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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More childcare for Ballan

Toolern Vale CFA. (Supplied)

Funds for new CFA tanker Toolern Vale CFA has received $223,333 in funding to support itts ongoing service to the local community as part of the Victorian Emergency Services Equipment Program (VESEP) grants. The annual program provides funding to Victorian emergency services volunteer groups to purchase essential operational equipment, vehicles and appliances and minor facility improvements. Toolern Vale CFA captain Jared Watson said receiving this grant allows the brigade to replace one of its aging tankers with a light

tanker that is specifically suited to Toolern Vale, providing enhanced safety for members and increasing operational effectiveness. “The brigade has been working towards the goal of having a modern crew cab 4WD tanker for a long time and we are excited to see the hard work of our members and the community that supports us be rewarded,” he said. Through this round of grants, CFA brigades have received more than $10.8 million, Victoria State Emergency Service units received more than $2.4 million, Life Saving Victoria’s surf lifesaving clubs received more than $850,000

and Marine Search and Rescue crews received more than $350,000. Melton MP Steve McGhie said the program provides volunteers with the equipment and facilities they need to continue their selfless work. “Victorian emergency service volunteers work incredibly hard to keep our communities safe, which is why we’ve invested more than $123 million in VESEP grants to support the critical work they do,” he said. “We’re grateful for all that they do to protect our community.”

Families in Ballan won’t have to wait much longer with a brand new early childhood education service on the way. Set to open its doors shortly, the new Yaluk Burron Early Learning centre is located on the corner of Stead and Steiglitz Streets, operated by the Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-operative Ltd. Providing 100 additional places for the town in a Centre-based Day Centre setting, it will give more local families the opportunity to access early childhood education. The federal government is investing $600,000 into the new service through the Community Child Care Fund (CCCF) limited supply grants program. The CCF is a $16 million federal investment to help establish new early childhood education services in regional communities that currently have limited or no services operating in their area. Hawke MP Sam Rae visited the new centre and said the new service for Ballan would help take pressure off local families. “I’ve seen first-hand the challenges faced by families when there aren’t enough early education spots for local kids,” he said. “This means more parents can get back to work when they want to, and will give our little ones the opportunities they deserve.”

SUMMER 2023

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NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU The Youth Advisory Group Team.

Above and right: Milly at the Gumnut Painting stall. Below: Will showing off his popcorn goodies.

Make way for headspace Day headspace’s Youth Advisory Group took over the Melton Library for headspace Day – a day of activities from scavenger hunts and arts and crafts to poetry and audio workshops on Tuesday, November 28. headspace community awareness officer Melissa O’Neill said it was a fantastic celebration of the young people in our community. “The community response was amazing. We hope to have many more events like this in the future to connect community to services,” she said.

Adam and Nicola at the face painting station.

Above: Cheyenne and Matt at a scavenger hunt station. Right: Aaron and Rose making badges. Below: Andy running the slam poetry workshop.

Attendees Anthony, Haylea, Scarlett and Casey. (Pictures: Jacob Pattison) 374013

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COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Mens Fella-ship Men from all walks of life are invited to connect with their community and catch up over a cuppa at the weekly Fella-ship social group, meeting on Wednesday afternoons between 1-3pm at the Melton South Community Centre. The catch ups are free and no bookings are required. ■ 9747 8576

Chatty Cafe Melton Are you feeling lonely, isolated or just wanting to make some new friends? If so, Chatty Cafe is for you. The group meets on Friday mornings at 10am for delicious free coffee from Latin foods and wines at 10 Wallace Square, Melton. ■ https://www.facebook.com/ groups/352071857283331

Women’s Support Group Women’s Support Group Melton is for any women who feel they would like to attend a peer support group which is relaxed, friendly and non-judgemental. The group meets weekly at 1pm on Mondays (except for public holidays) at Djerriwarrh Neighbourhood House, 239 Station Road, Melton. The group can discuss most subjects that may be of help. ■ https://ow.ly/QVwJ50Q5g42 This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Norm Morris in a B24 Liberator bomber restoration hanger in Werribee. (Damjan Janevski)

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

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

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

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

Melton Friendship Group. Join the Melton Friendship Group for singles 55 and older. Meet fortnightly for coffee and chat nights and organised affordable outings and events. ■ 0406 493 734

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

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

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

Melton Bridge Club The Melton Bridge Club has weekly social

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

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

fabric. They need people to cut, sew, iron and market our bags. The group meets on the first Sunday each month at Darley Neighbourhood House 2pm-5pm. ■ https://63ec55b8628d6.site123.me/

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park

Bacchus Marsh Garden Club

The Rose Carers meet Wednesdays from 10am-noon at Maddingley Park, corner of Grant and Taverner streets, Bacchus Marsh, to maintain two beautiful rose gardens. All volunteers are always welcome. ■ Elaine Greenhall, 0418 171 119, or 0400 052 857

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

Melton Cycling Club

Community Band

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

The Greater Western Community Band holds rehearsals on Thursdays, 7.30-9.30pm, at Blackwood Drive Hall, Melton South. The group welcomes musicians young and old to come along and join in with the band. Also available to perform at events and festivals. ■ Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582

Melton Combined Probus Club

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

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

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

16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

If you love to sing, come join the Melton Singers. The group rehearses regularly and also performs at aged care facilities. The group is very relaxed and sings songs mainly from the 1960s and 70s. It meets Tuesdays at 10am. ■ Val, 0418 667 150

Rotary Club of Melton The Rotary Club of Melton invites new guests to join its meetings, held on the first and third Tuesday of every month, 6pm at Tabcorp Park, Melton. ■ meltonrotary@gmail.com

Melton Trauma Teddies Melton Trauma Teddies are seeking volunteers to assist with knitting, stuffing, or stitching teddy-bears that go to children in their time of need. ■ Jean 0412 931 498

Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh make reusable shopping bags from rescued

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

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

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

easy

8 5 2

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

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

QUICK CROSSWORD

Present to someone new (9) Meet requirements (7) Land measure (imp) (4) Independent official who investigates citizens’ complaints (9) Wandering from place to place (7) Destructive insects (7) Surgery chamber (7) Break into pieces (7) Motor (6) Untruths (4) Subject (5)

7 8 9 15

ACROSS Church officer (6) Wages (8) Poem (5) Criticism (7) Impeached US president (5) Teachers (9) Darling (8) Excellent (6) Astronomical cloud (6) Female server (8) With healing properties (9) In addition (5) Launched weapon (7) Luxury (5) Box (8) Finish (6)

1 4 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 19 23 25 27 28 29 30

No. 162

17 18 20 21 22 24 26

DOWN Vast Sudanese grasslands (7) Copy (5) South-West Pacific region (7) Metal body protection (6) Mean (7)

1 2 3 5 6

DECODER

No. 162

hard

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

Today’s Aim: 19 words: Good 29 words: Very good

H T

bash, bath, bathe, bathes, bathos, baths, BOATHOUSE, booth, bosh, both, bush, ethos, haste, hate, hates, haute, heat, heats, hoes, hoot, hoots, hose, host, house, HOUSEBOAT, oath, shea, shoat, shoe, shoo, shoot, shot, shout, shut, sooth, soothe, south, those, thou, thus

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

No. 162

6 7 $ 0 3

ALTER ALTOS APART ARENA AROSE ATONE CANAL CRANE CRATE DOILY EATEN EDGES FRETS GENIE HALER ISSUE LODGE MANIA NESTS OASES OVERS PARSE PEDAL

4 LETTERS APED EELS EVIL EYES HIRE HOUR PAID POND RANT RENT SARI SEWS SPAS TOES TUNE 5 LETTERS ABATE ACORN ALARM

LLAMAS PREFAB TOMCAT

PEEPS PURER RADIO RASPS REAPS RENEW SCARF SEATS SELLS SHAFT SLEDS SLEET SNIDE SNOOP STAMP TABOO THERE TWIRL USUAL VIRAL

TATTOOED TRESTLES

7 LETTERS ABSTAIN COOPING DESPAIR OUTSIDE RUNNIER SECULAR

11 LETTERS NECESSITATE PESTILENCES

8 LETTERS INTERNET SHRAPNEL

6 LETTERS ELECTS

08-12-23

No. 162 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

O N G S O R N E

T A F F A D L E B O U T

S L A

9-LETTER WORD

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

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

10 11 12 13

S 20

O N

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

F L

A A

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

40 words: Excellent

hard

5x5

medium

easy

3 LETTERS APE ARE AWE CAD CUT DAD EKE ERA EVE FIT FOR ICE ILK ITS LIE MET NEE NIT PAL PET SET TAN TOE

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

D VMP K T F OH Z Q J X

9 5 7

G R E I C A NWU Y L S B

6 7

WORDFIT

QUICK QUIZ

A person suffering from friggatriskaidekaphobia is afraid of what?

Which award-winning singer was born Natalie McIntyre?

In the Star Wars universe, what ‘forest moon’ is home to the Ewoks?

Vesak is a holy day observed in which religion?

The Round House in Western Australia was originally built for what purpose?

Lead singer of Foo Fighters, Dave Grohl (pictured), was once the drummer for which iconic ‘90s band?

What is the name of the largest island of Fiji?

In which month of 1666 did the Great Fire of London occur?

Which great classical composer died of a suspected stroke in 1750 in Leipzig, Germany?

10 Sadie Madison and Sunny Madeline are the children of which US actor and comedian?

ANSWERS: 1. Friday the 13th 2. Macy Gray 3. Endor 4. Buddhism 5. A prison 6. Nirvana 7. Viti Levu 8. September 9. Johann Sebastian Bach 10. Adam Sandler

No. 162

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

SUDOKU

Tuesday, 5 December, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services V Fencing & Gates

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29 .00

• All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication. • After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear. • The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item. • Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer. • The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain.

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18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

SPORTS QUIZ 13. Who was captain of the Australian men’s ODI cricket team before Pat Cummins?

4. Which NFL team won the 2016 Super Bowl?

1. The father of which NBA star has landed a fulltime coaching job at the Illawarra Hawks?

5. Five low-ranking tennis players have been banned by the ITA for committing what offence?

2. Nick Kyrgios called which tennis star ‘superhuman’ after winning the ATP Finals for the seventh time?

14. Chicago has how many MLB teams? 15. And what are their names?

6. Who is highest-paid female athlete in the world?

3. At their recent show in Perth, Coldplay made a heartfelt tribute to which late sports star?

16. Who scored the only goal in Australia’s game against Denmark in the group stage of 2022’s FIFA World Cup?

7. Which WBBL player hit a six with a broken bat in a recent match at North Sydney Oval?

17. How many players are in a curling team?

8. How many times has Stephanie Gilmore won the Women’s WSL World Tour Championship?

23. Shamera Sterling, winner of the 2023 Super Netball player of the year award, plays for which Super Netball club?

18. Which team won the Stanley Cup in 2022?

9. Mckenna Grace played the younger version of which figure skater in a 2017 film?

19. WWE wrestler Becky Lynch is married to which fellow wrestler?

24. Which Perth-born Australian golf professional won the 2023 Australian PGA Championship?

20. In what year did the Carlton Football Club last win an AFL premiership?

10. How many times have the Socceroos placed in the top four at a FIFA World Cup?

21. Courtney Bruce, winner of the 2023 Liz Ellis Diamond award, plays for which Super Netball club?

11. Which two countries are co-hosting the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup?

22. Which national men’'s tennis team defeated Australia in the final of the 2023 Davis Cup?

12. How many Australians have won the Tour de France?

Becky Lynch

Stephanie Gilmore

25. Which two teams qualified to play off in the 2023 AFLW Grand Final?

28. Which team did Brisbane Blaze defeat to win the final of the 2023 Women’s Hockey One competition? 29. Monique Conti, winner of the 2023 AFLW best and fairest award, plays for which club? 30. The 2023 film Next Goal Wins is based on a documentary focused on which national soccer team?

26. The 2023 LA Bowl college football game is sponsored by which former NFL star? 27. Which team did Brisbane Blaze defeat to win the final of the 2023 Men’s Hockey One competition?

0812

1. Jayson Tatum 2. Novak Djokovic 3. Shane Warne 4. The Broncos 5. Match-fixing 6. Serena Williams 7. Grace Harris 8. Eight 9. Tonya Harding 10. None 11. West Indies and America 12. One (Cadel Evans) 13. Aaron Finch 14. Two 15. The Cubs and the White Sox 16. Mathew Leckie 17. Four 18. Colorado Avalanche 19. Seth Rollins 20. 1995 21. West Coast Fever 22. Italy 23. Adelaide Thunderbirds 24. Min Woo Lee 25. Brisbane Lion and North Melbourne 26. Rob Gronkowski 27. NSW Pride 28. Canberra Chill 29. Richmond 30. American Samoa

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The Victorian Equal Opportunity Act 1995 makes it unlawful for an advertiser to show any intention to discriminate on the basis of sex, pregnancy, race, age, marital status, political or religious belief or physical features, disability, lawful sexual activity/sexual orientation, HIV/AIDS status or on the basis of being associated with a person with one of the above characteristics, unless covered by an exception under the Act. As Network Classifieds could be legally liable if an unlawful advertisement is printed, Network Classifieds will not accept advertisements that appear to break the law. For more information about discrimination in advertising, contact your legal advisers or the Equal Opportunity Commission.

Motoring V

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

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CALL 1300 666 808 Tuesday, 5 December, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 19

MOTOR STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

X-Trail roots in ‘enemy territory’ By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring In one of the most competitive segments of the automobile industry one company has called on rivals for one of its most important products. Nissan has put together its fourth generation X-Trail with parts from the Mitsubishi Outlander on a Nissan-Renault Alliance CMC-F platform. Weighing in with six petrol-powered variants in front or all-wheel drive – there are two e-Power hybrid electric vehicles on the horizon – the bitser takes on the task of making up ground on well-established rivals such as Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson. The new X-Trail comes with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in front-wheel drive, or optional Intelligent 4x4, with all four grades – ST, ST-L, Ti and Ti-L, with a mix of five or seven seats – fitted with an Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission. Well-equipped from the entry-level ST front-wheel drive at $36,750, plus on-road costs, to the range-leading Ti-L AWD, $52,990, on test was the ST-L AWD 7 seat priced at $46,290. All X-Trails are covered by Nissan’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and roadside assistance over the same period. Service packages are available.

Styling Nissan says the new CMF-C platform, from its alliance with Renault, allows for 27 per cent greater torsional stiffness than before, while the use of ultra high-tensile steel in the body has almost doubled over the old car. Weight savings have been found by using composite material for the rear tailgate, and aluminium for the front and rear doors, front fenders, and bonnet. The test car paint job turned out to be something of a work of art, the basic white with black highlights really holding the redesigned rear together, giving the vehicle a unique, sharper look than before. The signature V-Motion grille and double-decker headlamps add to the Nissan(ness) of the MY23 model, while two-tone body colours – white and black here – make their Nissan debut. The ST-L rolls on 18-inch alloy wheels.

Interior A spacious cabin is versatile, with sliding second row seats to allow for passable access to the optional third row, maximising seating for up to seven. Rear doors open wide, allowing ease of loading. Despite retaining the same 2705mm wheelbase as the previous X-Trail, there’s more space in the second row, with generous leg and knee room. There’s no skimping on headroom. The big let-down, however, is the lack of legroom in a third row only suitable to take children. Synthetic leather seats, heated at the front, include power-adjustable driver’s seat. There’s dual-zone climate control, 360-degree parking camera view, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and leather-accented steering wheel. Inside, the vehicle is dominated by black surrounds. However, brown inserts scattered around the cabin, plus white contrasting stitching surprisingly give the gloom a lift. Storage includes generous cup holders up front, room for big bottles in the doors and a huge central bin. Under the console is another large tray. The boot floor is split into two removable panels that lift and slot in vertically to separate and hide items. It also includes limited under-floor storage for slimmer items. The X-Trail has a temporary spare wheel.

Infotainment The ST-L is fitted with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and AM, FM and DAB+ digital radio.

The new Nissan X-Trail puts on a face to challenge any of its mid-size SUV opponents. (Pictures: Supplied)

There’s a USB-A and C port up front – two more USB ports (one USB-C and one USB-A) in the back – and a wireless charger. One blessing is the air-conditioning controls are left out of the touchscreen, instead in the form of a row of dials and buttons that are easy to use when driving. The driver also can take advantage of an instrument display consisting of twin analogue dials flanking a 7-inch screen with important info such as speed, fuel economy, safety systems and tyre pressures.

Engines/transmissions Launching on a brand-new platform, the new X-Trail is offered with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine – the same unit as in the Outlander – producing 135 kW of power and 244 Nm of torque. In front-wheel drive or optional Intelligent 4x4, all grades are fitted with an Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission. Maximum braked towing capacity has been increased to 2000kg.

Safety Advanced safety tech earned the X-Trail a five-star ANCAP rating in 2022. On hand is lane keeping assist, lane centring assist, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, traffic sign recognition, driver attention alert, front

20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE ST 2WD $36,750 ST AWD 7 seat $37,790 ST-L 2WD $43,190 ST-L AWD 7 seat $46,290 Ti AWD $49,990 Ti AWD ePower hybrid $54,190 Ti-L AWD $52,990 Ti-L AWD ePower hybrid $57,190 SPECIFICATIONS Nissan X-Trail ST-L AWD 2.5L 4-cylinder petrol, CVT automatic, AWD SUV

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Nissan dealer for drive-away prices.

and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree vehicle view and door exit warning. Forward autonomous emergency braking, with pedestrian and cyclist detection, while low-speed reverse AEB is handy when parking, the latter producing a shock to the driver’s system when first introduced to it in the test vehicle without forewarning.

Driving Performance has seen the benefit of extensive engineering work, with the ST-L skipping along nicely on the bitumen. An upgraded (9 kW / 18 Nm) 135 kW/244 Nm 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine delivers more pep with little noise, vibration and harshness making their way into the cabin. Fuel consumption on test rose as high as 11.5 litres per 100 kilometres in town traffic, while the best recorded was 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres on a motorway run, averaging within the 7.8 combined urban/highway consumption claimed by Nissan. Following a full overhaul of chassis and suspension tuning, the new X-Trail has improved on-road ride and handling considerably. With the new Intelligent 4x4 system designed to react quicker than before, power off road is seamlessly transferred from front to rear wheels to help with stability and traction. As well as hill descent control, the X-Trail ST-L offers five drive and terrain modes – Auto, Eco, Sport, Snow and Off-Road – accessed by a rotator on the centre console.

Summary It’s anyone’s guess how the Nissan will compete on the congested mid-size SUV sales trail. The well-specced ST-L could hold the key.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Melton on a roll with another win in pennant Melton’s strong run of form continued on Saturday as it claimed another win in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 2, section 2. Having come off a grand final appearance last season, Melton picked up where it left off and sit on top of the ladder at the halfway mark of the season, with only one loss for the season. Melton coach Todd Trewarne said there were a number of reasons for their strong start to the season. “Obviously hard and training and stuff is paying off,” he said. “Camaraderie is a big thing for us. “Everyone is getting along really well and we’ve got a couple of fly in players, who bring fresh faces and a fresh mindset. “There’s depth at the club as well. Our second side is in the same division and not as strong as the first side but there’s a lot of good players more than capable of being in the top 16 at the club. “They are certainly putting pressure on with their performances.”

After thinking that they might not get on the green on Saturday due to rain, Melton was able to come away with another strong win, beating Moonee Valley 2, 105 (16)-78 (2). Trewarne’s rink won 28-17, Flynn O’Shaughnessy’s rink won 22-15 while Chris Barritt-Eyles’ rink was the big winner, winning 37-20. Trewarne said they had hit a really good run of form, dropping just two rinks in the past five weeks. Melton sits 26 points clear of second having played every team once. Trewarne said while they believed they were better placed than last season, they weren’t looking too far ahead. “We sort of had a couple of things go wrong last season and had a bit of inexperience in the group,” he said. “Having the fly in players come down, there’s a different feel and they beef us up a bit at the back end. “We’re not looking at finals. It’s just one game at a time.”

Trewarne said things were going really well off the green for the club as well. Melton this week host Moonee Ponds on Saturday. Meanwhile, Bacchus Marsh continued its strong form in division 2, section 1 with a big win against Melton 2. Bacchus Marsh controlled three of the four rinks on the way to a 100 (17)-65 (1) win. Glenn Sargent’s rink won 30-12, Justin Webber’s rink won 33-17 and Matthew Young’s rink won 20-19. Phil Minniti had to share the points with David George after finishing 17-all. Bacchus Marsh sits on top of the ladder 15 points clear of Deer Park 2, having won all their matches. Melton 2 sits in eighth spot. Tara Murray

Flynn O’Shaughnessy has been a handy inclusion this season. (Supplied)

Sports shorts VTCA Sydenham-Hillside shone with the bat on Tuesday night against the Doutta Stars in one of the rare games to go ahead in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition. The Storm smashed a massive 7-192 from its overs with Ishan Nilaksha top scoring 53 at the top of the order. The Stars were quickly in trouble at 5-11 in reply. The Stars put up a fight but never looked likely, restricted to 9-79. Stefon King was the destroyer for the Storm, taking 4-6 off his four overs.

Coates Talent League Western Jets Lucca Grego and Bacchus Marsh’s Sam Lalor have been named in the Vic Metro and Country boys summer hub training squads respectively. The squad contains 24 players and will take one in two high performance training camps over the summer months to further assist players in their preparation for the 2024 Coates Talent League season.

AFL

Mark Torcaso

Torcaso departs United Western United women’s coach Mark Torcaso has made the decision to leave the club effective immediately. Torcaso made the decision to resign from his position in order to focus fully on his role as coach of the Philippines women’s national team. This decision came in consultation with the Philippine Football Federation and with Western United, with the club saying it gives its full support to Torcaso in pursuing this international opportunity. While he departs as head coach, Torcaso will remain connected to Western United in an advisory role, continuing to facilitate the club’s development pathway for talented players in the west. Torcaso said it had been an honour to represent Western United as a head coach, affirming his anticipation at seeing the team continue to grow. “The club has meant everything to me, the players, the staff and everyone involved in it. To be part of this is something so special and unique,” he said. “I cannot wait to continue watching this team evolve – this team has the capabilities to go all the way. My connection with the women’s team will remain, just in a different

way. I am looking forward to this and helping in whatever way I can.” In light of these changes, United has appointed Kat Smith as the club’s new head coach. One of the leading minds in Australian women’s football, Smith becomes United’s first ever female head coach and will continue the growth of the program which Torcaso started. Smith guided Western Sydney Wanderers to their second-best ever points tally in the A-League last season and boasts a breadth of experience in the Australian national team set-up. Smith has worked in assistant coach and analyst positions across youth and senior national teams, including a key analyst role during the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup. Returning to the A-League, Smith said she is ready to write the next chapter in Western United’s short history. “This is a great opportunity. Building on the foundations and aiming for the next level is an exciting challenge,” she said. “Our key focus will involve meticulous planning and preparation, effective communication and continuous improvement. “Collectively, we will strive for excellence

and take a collaborative approach to achieving success. I acknowledge the challenge that the season brings and will endeavour to create a winning culture and an enjoyable environment for all involved.” Football general manager Mal Impiombato added his delight at securing Smith to continue developing the future of United’s women’s program. “We are thrilled to welcome Kat to our football club. Kat is an extremely talented coach with a wealth of knowledge and experience, and we are buoyant about the impact she will have at Western United,” he said. “We welcome Kat to the club and look forward to seeing her continue to build on the foundations that have been set in our women’s department.” Alongside Smith, Chelsea Noonan will continue in her role as assistant coach and extend her already outstanding work with the team. Noonan has previously worked as an assistant coach with the Republic of Ireland under-17 women’s national team. Smith was set take her first session as United coach on Monday as the team begins preparation for the round seven clash against Adelaide United.

Former Bacchus Marsh Cobra Liam Duggan has been named as captain of the West Coast Eagles. The 26-year-old has played 158 AFL games in his eight year career and will lead the struggling Eagles alongside star forward Oscar Allen. Duggan was drafted out of the Cobras and Western Jets.

EDFL The Essendon District Football League women’s premier division competition will remain at eight teams next season. The league revealed the structure of the top flight and the fixture, which isn’t normally released until the new years. Last season’s division 1 winners, Essendon Doutta Stars, move into the top division, while Strathmore, which finished bottom of premier division has been relegated. The women’s season kicks off on April 13 and each team will play each other twice. Grand final day is slated for August 24.

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Tuesday, 5 December, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 21

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Runs come but luckless Titans go down again It’s been a luckless start to the season for the North Western Titans, going down in another tight loss on Sunday afternoon in Baseball Victoria summer league. The Titans faced top-three side Waverley for their round nine metro major 1 clash, losing 9-7. The struggling Titans have won just one of their nine games so far, but coach Danny Haymes said the wins and losses don’t tell the whole story. “We’re working through some little things that we’ve been developing,” he said. “We have a lot of new players at the club that are new to the games so we’re working through some areas that we need to improve on. “We’re getting better week by week, even though we’ve only won one game we’ve been unlucky in a handful of games. “Our offence has been what’s lacking, our defence isn’t too bad, but we certainly need to improve our offence.” Speaking before the game against Waverley,

Haymes said it would be a good opportunity to put what they have been working at on show. Before the weekend’s match the Titans had been averaging just 3.38 runs a game, to equal a season high of seven runs on the weekend is an encouraging sign heading into the Christmas break. “We had a pretty tight game against them last time we played them, we lost 6-1 but it was only 3-1 until about the fifth dig, so it was a pretty tight game,” Haymes said. “We’re expecting a hard game again and we’re at home and we are pretty hard to beat at home, even though we’ve lost a couple of games at home this season, we’ve been very competitive. “We’re still optimistic that we’ll have a crack and try to get a win.” In the higher up premier divisions of the Baseball Victoria summer season, the competitions are set to split in half after the break, however with the smaller competition

of metro major having just six teams, it is still unclear how the league will restart post break. However, with two games upcoming before the break Haymes is hoping his team can start to turn its luck around. “I’d like to see us get some wins for the work that we’ve been doing on the training track because I don’t think the results have been that bad,” he said. “As long as we’re competitive, we set our own goals, the results are not always the end all of what we’re looking at, we’re looking at what we’re doing as a group to improve and the end results will come eventually.” The Titans are set to play St Kilda on Sunday. Harper Sercombe

Danny Haymes (Shawn Smits)

sign Hillside eyes experience Rams Pritchard By Tara Murray

Hillside’s focus on bringing some more experience into its side has paid off with the club signing the Caruso brothers and Damian Cavka. The Essendon District Football League division 1 team announced that Fort and Nate Caruso have signed with the club. Both have been with Greenvale in recent seasons having played with Northern Saints previously. Fort was a two-time Morrish Medallist in the old TAC Cup competition and played by Coburg and Richmond in the Victorian Football League. Nat also played for both Coburg and Richmond in the VFL. For first year Sharks senior coach, Chris Daley, getting both players is a massive bonus. “We’ve managed to get a couple of good players,” he said. “The club has had a couple of goes over the last few years to get the pair and get them out of Greenvale. “They are loyal guys. We sat with them both at the same time and they took a month to make a decision. “They are quality guys and will help compliment what we are trying to do.” The addition of the Caruso brothers comes after the club has already signed Robbie Castello. Castello joins the club from Keilor Park, but he has previously played at Maribyrnong Park and Westmeadows and played VFL. Daley said the arrival of Castello had opened some doors. “It was a no brainer,” he said. “He has coached previously and is well regarded and he is a great guy.” The club on Thursday night then announced the signing of Cavka. The former AFL-listed player Cavka played for Keilor last season, but missed the premiership through injury. Speaking before the signing announcement, Daley said many clubs had spoken to Cavka and they were keen to have him on board. Jake Gatto and Habib Hosni are the other signings announced by the club so far. For Daley, who has stepped up from the assistant coach role following the departure of Charlie Denaro, it has been the perfect start. “The entire list had signed before the coach was announced, which is a good sign of where we are heading,” he said. “We were confident in the list and have unveiled some high end players with experience and that helps us grow. This year the club won their first final in division 1 and Daley said they were hoping it was only the beginning.

The Western Rams have locked in a head coach for 2024 while awaiting a decision on where it will play next season. The Rams announced that they had secured the services of experienced coach Ash Pritchard via social media earlier this month. Pritchard has coached across the country going back to the early 2000s where he coached the Manunda Hawks in Cairns. He then moved down the coast to coach Robina for two years. In 2015 he was a part of a strong Sunbury Lions set up, before moving back to Cairns to take on a role at the South Cairns Cutters. His most recent coaching stint came at Lismore Swans, where he led them to their first finals appearance in 20 years. The struggling Rams haven’t won a game since 2018 which prompted decision makers at the club to question whether it should move into the Western Region Football League. The club hosted a special general meeting on October 18 to discuss and vote on the move, where it was unanimously agreed that a move into the WRFL from the Riddell District Football League would best suit its needs. WRFL clubs are set to vote on whether to allow the Rams into the competition this week, with just a majority vote needed. President Stephen Lalli-Cafini previously told this paper said it would be the best outcome for the club. “Our location, we’re right in the middle of the west, so there won’t be a whole lot of travel,” he said. “We want to go across and be a bit more competitive. “The league [RDFL] is just going to continue to get stronger and stronger, and just where we are I think it’s better suited for us to be playing in our own region.” Nat Caruso. (Jacob Pattison) 330731_01

The Sharks were knocked out in the semi finals by Rupertswood. “We played finals this year, we want to get through to a grand final,” he said. “It was great for the club and it’s a great opportunity in my opinion.” The Sharks have been back at training for

22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 5 December, 2023

three weeks, with Daley saying the numbers had been fantastic. “The boys had been doing their own training before we come back,” he said. “We’ll give them six weeks off over Christmas and then we will be back as we’ve got an early start to the season with a Good Friday game.”

While Greg’s away, Amy heads to championship Greg Sugars enjoyed a perfect start to the 2023 Inter Dominion carnival in Queensland on Friday night and his sister-in-law was enjoying some extra opportunities at Melton in his absence on Saturday evening. Sugars is up north with the team of Better Eclipse and Just Believe, who won respective pacing and trotting heats during the opening round of ID23 at Albion Park. Closer to home, wife and trainer Jess Tubbs and her reinswoman sister Amy combined to claim the opening heat of the Gordon Rothacker Memorial Championship with the handy Vee Em Gee Macray. The three-year-old filly made it back-to-back victories with an all-the-way success in the 2240m event, leading easily from gate five before racing clear in closing quarters of 28.2 and 27.7 to beat Illawong Awesome and Corravally Star. “It’s a real treat to get to have a turn while

Greg’s on holiday,” Amy, who hadn’t driven a winner since May 19, said. “We deserve it, (Greg’s sister) Kylie and I having a little go. He gets to go up in the sunshine to the Inter Dominion and we stay home in the mud, so we get to have some drives tonight and it’s really good fun.” Vee Em Gee Macray’s win was her seventh at start 22, with prizemoney earnings now up over $60,000. “She’s just been in a lot of really good races. She finishes in the middle, she runs great times, then every now and again she gets an opportunity to really shine. “She felt super happy and so I just went with it. She felt like she knew what she wanted to do and I said ‘great – I love going fast!’.” Andy and Kate Gath combined to claim the second heat with Magnetic Terror after the five-year-old worked forward from the back row to sit parked and then crushed his

opposition by nearly 8m. The $20,000 Gordon Rothacker Memorial Championship Final will be staged at Melton on Saturday, December 9. Later in the night, Bulletproof Boy took his earnings past $500,000 with career win 37 in the D H Steel Free For All. Trainer-driver Scott Ewen sat patiently midfield in the running line before the brilliant eight-year-old produced his customary sprint to wear down leader Outlaw Man in the home straight. Ewen said he had contemplated taking the son of Art Official to Queensland for the Inter Dominion carnival, but was happy to stay in Victoria and allow Bulletproof Boy to “gobble up things here” while his biggest rivals were interstate. Tim O’Connor Vee Em Gee Macray (Supplied)

Centrals get jump on Roos

Emmie Morin (Jacob Pattison)373467_12

Season over for Melton A youthful Melton Thoroughbreds side was unable to get the job done on Saturday night, with an experienced Bendigo Braves outfit putting an end to their 2024 Country Basketball League north-west campaign. While the Thoroughbreds were at home in the semi final clash, experience on the court prevailed with the Braves winning 93-47. The Braves are heading to their fourth consecutive CBL women’s grand final, having won the championship two of the last three seasons, including the last one, and were runners up in the other year. Momentum was against the Thoroughbreds early at Cobblebank Stadium as the Braves got away to a flying start, being 11 points up at quarter time. The Thoroughbreds seemed to have their heads back in the game as the second term got underway trimming the lead to 10 at the half. However, a half of competitive basketball was as much as the Thoroughbreds could handle on the weekend, with the Braves increasing their lead by 15 points in the third

quarter, and by another 21 points in the last. For the Thoroughbreds, Ella Macleod and Elle Price were the standouts putting up 13 and 12 points respectively. The Braves’ Poppy Blanch was her side’s best with a game high 30 points. While a semi-final departure was not what the Thoroughbreds were looking for, they can take plenty of confidence from their season, winning eight of their 10 regular season fixtures, including beating the Braves in round four. The Thoroughbreds’ team boasted an average age of just 15, with their oldest player just 18 years old, indicating an exciting future ahead for basketball in Melton. It was heartbreak for the men’s side as well, which fell short against the Mildura Heat on Saturday night. The Thoroughbreds had to make the long trek up to Mildura as they hoped to qualify for a second straight grand final. The Thoroughbreds started the better of the two sides and took a five point lead into the first

break. The second quarter was another close one, with the Thoroughbreds able to extend their lead to six points at the main break. After half time Mildura turned up the heat and started to take control of the game, hitting the lead half way through the quarter. A 28-19 quarter turned the six point deficit into a three point lead heading into the final quarter. It was much of the same in the final quarter, which the Heat won 27-15, to run away with a 93-78 win. Milan Savic top scored for the Thoroughbreds, while Bol Bak chipped in with 19 points. While the two Melton teams were knocked out, it will still be a big Saturday night at Cobblebank Stadium. Both the men’s and women’s north-west grand finals will be held at Melton. Kyneton Tigers will face the Bendigo Braves in the women’s grand final from 5.15pm, with the men’s grand final between the Braves and Heat to follow.

Melton Centrals made light work of the Greenvale Kangaroos in the opening round of the Cricket Victoria Women’s Community Cricket competition shield 2 one-day competition. Having finished third in the T20 competition and just missing out on the grand final, the Centrals enjoyed going to the longer format on Sunday. After being sent in, the Centrals made 8-117 from their 36 overs. Skipper Candace Hulett top scored with 36 off 48 balls. Centrals quickly had the Kangaroos in trouble with the ball, having then 4-10. It would prove a hard slog for the Kangaroos who would be bowled out for 45 in the 18th over. Erin Keenan was the main destroyer with the ball, taking 5-11 off 6.1 overs. Kim Gasior also bowled superbly, taking 2-10 off her seven overs. Centrals face Parkfield this Sunday. Meanwhile, in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association women’s competition, Bacchus Marsh and Darley both came away with wins in different fashion. Bacchus Marsh beat Gisborne. The Bulls made 5-111 from their 20 overs with Emily Kennedy and Sarah Bamford both making 24 each. Dragons coach Brianna Woodburn was the pick of the bowlers, taking 2-20 off her four overs. The Dragons started strongly before losing a couple of wickets. The side was able to steady and were sitting at 2-70. As they went to push the run rate the wickets started to fall. The Dragons finished 8-86, having had just nine players bat. Woodburn top scored with 29 before being run out and Ruby Watts made 22. Emily Kennedy and Ashley Gillard took two wickets each for the Bulls. The Bulls sit in third spot not with three wins and the Dragons are in fourth spot. In the other match, Darley got the points with Kilmore forfeiting the game. Darley will play Macedon this Sunday in a top of the table clash.

Tuesday, 5 December, 2023 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

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