Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 16th January 2024 by Star Weekly

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16 JANUARY, 2024

Ace activity for Summer of Tennis Children inspired by watching the world’s best descend on Melbourne for the Australian Open can get down to Caroline Springs Leisure Centre to develop their own tennis talents. Melton council is hosting two free clinics on January 23 as a part of the CS Summer of Tennis. Caroline Springs Tennis Club coaches will help guide beginners and hone experienced players’ skills, with an eight to 11-year-old class from 10-11am and a 12 to 16-year-old class from 11am-noon. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the Summer of Tennis program is a very popular school holiday activity. “With the Australian Open on this month, this program helps local kids develop a love for the sport that can last a lifetime,” she said. “This is a fantastic place for kids to keep active, meet new friends and dream about hitting winners like their on-court heroes on one of the 12 courts at the Caroline Springs tennis club. “The Caroline Springs sports precinct is a major recreational hub with indoor and outdoor facilities for a wide range of sports and community health programs that cater for people of all ages and abilities.’’ Coach Chris Singh with Ashton (8), Emily (8), Kourtney (10) and Chloe (10). (Damjan Janevski) 382692_08

Link challenge rejected By Liam McNally Moorabool council has expressed its disappointment at the verdict handed down by the Supreme Court late last year relating to the Western Renewables Link (WRL). The WRL is a proposed 190 kilometre overhead high-voltage electricity transmission line that will carry renewable energy from Bulgana, through Moorabool and Melton to Sydenham and requires the acquisition of an easement corridor 100 metres wide along its path. The Moorabool Central Highlands Power Alliance (MCHPA) has 2350 members and has consistently advocated for community

members impacted by WRL and Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector West (VNI West) and raised significant funds to have their concerns heard by the supreme court. The alliance challenged the validity of key decisions made by Energy and Resources Minister Lily D’Ambrosio in February and May, which sought to fast-track the WRL and VNI West projects through ministerial orders. MCHPA challenged the orders on 10 grounds, including that the minister’s reason for making them were allegedly inadequate, legally unreasonable, and that the minister failed to adequately define the changes the orders were making. Included in the court’s summary of the

minister’s reasons for the orders which was addressing power supply reliability issues raised the early phase out of coal-fired power plants and National Electricity Law constraining actions that would accelerate the projects. The court handed down a verdict on December 20 in favour of the minister, with Judge Michael McDonald ruling that the MCHPA did have standing to bring the matter to court, but rejected all 10 grounds on which the MCHPA challenged the orders. Moorabool council chief executive Derek Madden said news of the decision will be difficult for community members who are affected by the project.

“For the community’s sake, we hope that timing of the Western Renewables Link environment effects statement [EES] is not further delayed and goes on exhibition for public comment in late-2024, as is currently planned,” he said. The EES is not an approval process, rather, it enables decision makers to consider whether a project with potentially significant environmental effects should proceed. The EES is set to be exhibited for public comment for 30 business days via the Engage Victoria website in late-2024, during which time people can lodge a submission expressing their views about the proposed project.

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New hours for primary care hub Victorians are continuing to access Priority Primary Care Centres (PPCC) in record numbers, and Melton’s new centre will be extending its hours from February 1. Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas launched the state’s newest PPCC in Melton in late December, as the state passed 250,000 presentations since centres began opening in late 2022. Ms Thomas said it remains difficult for many Victorians to access affordable or timely care from a GP, which is why the government has had to step into primary care to ensure

people get the treatment and support they need, when they need it.” PPCCs partner with nearby hospital emergency departments. They provide free care for people with conditions that require urgent attention but not an emergency response. This includes conditions like mild infections and burns, suspected fractures or broken bones. They also offer pathology and imaging services. Melton’s Station Road Centre is one of 29 centres helping to relieve pressure on busy emergency departments, reduce wait times

and increase affordable, after-hours care options for Victorians. Following the progressive opening of PPCCs since September 2022, more than 6500 people are now receiving care each week, with 40 per cent patients being young children. According to the government 53 per cent of patients have reported that had a PPCC not been available, they would have otherwise gone to an emergency department for common ailments such as lacerations, fractures, minor burns, tonsillitis, and respiratory tract

infections – all conditions that might require urgent attention, but not emergency care. The Melton centre will extend its hours from February 1 to 8am-10pm, seven days a week. Melton MP Steve McGhie said the new centre will be boon for Melton. “It now means locals can be seen and treated quickly and without the stress that comes with waiting in a busy hospital emergency department,” he said. Details: betterhealth.vic.gov.au/priorityprimary-care-centres-ppccs.

Melton’s can cash-in record

Patrick Vella and Jake Hunter. (Damjan Janevski) 382888_04

Family’s horrific campsite ordeal A fundraiser has been set up for a Melton family that was seriously injured when a severe storm toppled trees across their campsite. The Hunter family was spending their yearly summer holiday at Freeburgh Caravan Park near Bright when severe storms tore through the area on January 3. Patrick Vella, a relative who was camping with the family before the storm hit, said the bulk of the trip was full of normal family getaway activities, swimming, riding bikes, kids playing and chilling at the campsite. Mr Vella had left on January 1, but understands that at about 6pm on the third a storm brought severe “cyclone-like” winds through the campsite. While the Hunter family were frantically

trying to save their camping gear, a pine tree was uprooted and another tree had a branch break, both of which fell onto the campsite and the family. The father, Ben Hunter, mother, Bree and kids Kayla (17) and Chelsea (13) were all struck. Only the son, Jake (19) was left unscathed who quickly responded, alerting the campground owner to call emergency services, and guiding them into the site when they arrived. Mr Vella said Mr Hunter was trapped under the fallen tree for about two hours, and was transported to Wangaratta hospital, then Royal Melbourne Hospital where he has undergone treatment for a broken neck vertebrae and multiple surgeries for an ankle “broken to the point where it was almost off”. Kayla suffered a fractured back vertebrae

and spent multiple nights in Wangaratta Hospital. Ms Hunter and Chelsea escaped with minor injuries. Mr Vella said Mr Hunter, the family’s sole income earner, will be unable to work for the foreseeable future, and so Mr Vella has set up a GoFundMe page to support the family during their recovery. “It’s never anything you want to hear,” he said. “They’re a single income family and that’s been taken away from them. Having a mortgage and a car and three kids to raise… we need to do what we can to help out family.” “It’d be greatly appreciated [for anyone] to help them out… that way they can concentrate on recovery.” Details: http://tinyurl.com/29csb4c6

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Melton’s Vic Depot has been named the highest performing metro refund point for the container deposit scheme (CDS). The CDS has achieved a milestone of more than 100 million containers returned, with Victorian’s pocketing more than $10 million in refunds in two months. CDS Vic Depot Melton returned 3.9 million cans, glass and PET plastics. Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos marked the milestone on January 11, at the new Return-It depot at South Melbourne, and said CDS is a great initiative to get people recycling. “It’s remarkable to see so many Victorians get involved in recycling, providing 100 million containers and counting for re-use in new products,” he said. “[This is] instead of [the containers] going to landfill or ending up in the environment and harming our wildlife. “We’re rewarding Victorians who do the right thing, reducing litter and making sure recyclable product don’t end up in landfill.” The CDS is processing an average of about 10 million cans, cartons and bottles across the state every week, with Victorians returning an average of 129 containers per transaction. The biggest day to date was January 5, with 3.18 million containers returned. Mildura is leading the state in container returns having returned more than 4.1 million containers. Of all the containers returned since the scheme commenced, aluminium cans have been the most popular making up 53 per cent of returns, followed by PET with 26 per cent and glass with 18 per cent.

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New school for Weir Views

President John Bentley with members of the Friends of the Melton Botanic Gardens. (Jacob Pattison) 382457_04

Push for garden safety By Liam McNally Members of the Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden (FMBG) are appealing to the public to help fund a handrail for the Lake Walk path boardwalk. The 72 metre-long boardwalk was built in 2017. FMBG president John Bentley said the boardwalk is used extensively by visitors to the garden and volunteers working there and having no handrail poses a significant falling hazard. “We take guided tours of up to 50 people on guided tours and many of these will include using the boardwalk as part of the tour,” he said. “People have reported feeling unsafe when crossing the boardwalk. Especially people with sight

impairment, have a disability or are elderly. “We have been told of near misses. We have asked people to report any incidents directly to council.” FMBG has started a campaign to raise $15,000 to install the handrail, which Mr Bentley said the group is hoping to be able to install before winter. “Winter is when the boardwalk is slippery due to frost. Frost on the boardwalk is highly dangerous to users and one of their highest concerns in winter,” he said. “People say they have slipped and now take a much longer route around to avoid the boardwalk using the crushed rock paths the Friends have constructed.” Mr Bentley said the group originally approached council to fund the handrail,

however their application was rejected on the grounds that it did not exceed one metre in height - council’s minimum requirement for being obliged to install a handrail. He contends that although the bulk of the walkway is 65cm to 90cm off the ground, this is still a significant fall onto rough ground, and that there is a 6 metre section of the walk that is higher than one metre. “We are greatly downhearted by council dismissal and some are extremely angry. Many people and volunteers believe council should be funding the handrail,” he said. People wanting to contribute to FMBG’s Boardwalk Handrail Appeal should contact Mr Bentley. Melton council was contacted for comment. Details: 9743 3819 or friends@fmbg.org.au

The state government announced on Wednesday, January 10 that a new primary school in Weir Views will open in January 2026. Toolern Waters Primary School (interim name) in Weir Views will cater to 715 students, including 65 places for students with disability. Acting Premier and Education Minister Ben Carroll announced that construction will begin at Tollern Waters and four other future primary schools in Truganina, Wallan, Geelong and Wodonga. “We’re proud to be giving students and their hard-working families in growing communities across our state the world-class schools they deserve, close to home,” he said. “These new schools will give children and teachers the modern facilities to set them up for success – and give families of children with additional needs a choice about their education.” The builds come from a $280 million investment that will eventually support more than 2,800 students. Tenders to build the new schools will open early this year and construction is expected to begin from the middle of 2024. Three schools are set to open in Melton for term one this year - Yarrabing Secondary College in Aintree, Dharra Specialist School in Aintree and Binap Primary School in Brookfield.

Splash into open day Community members are invited to take part in an open day celebration at the new Moorabool Aquatic Recreation Centre (MARC) indoor stadium in Maddingley, the biggest facility of its kind in the shire. On January 20 the community can expect an array of free activities including adult and child-friendly Strength and Stretch classes, children’s disco and various ball sport demonstrations. A sausage sizzle will be provided with a gold coin donation to the Belgravia Foundation, which aims to reduce participation barriers in sport and recreation. The first stage of the $17 million centre, which is yet to be fitted with its long-hoped-for pool, opened in December and and comprises four indoor highball courts, a 340 seat stadium with stand-alone change rooms, entry, reception, kiosk, office and administration areas, Public toilet facilities, Multi-purpose

program spaces, a function room with kitchenette, first aid room and referees room, change room facilities including toilet and shower amenities, storage and plant room and car parking for 118 spaces. Moorabool mayor Ally Munari said council is excited for the community to try it out. “We are thrilled to open the doors of the MARC stadium to the community and showcase the state-of-the-art facilities; it’s not just a stadium, but a hub for fitness, fun and community engagement,” she said. Council has a three-year partnership with stadium operators, Belgravia Leisure, which will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the centre. The community open day will be held on Saturday, January 20 from 10am to 1pm at the stadium located in Taverner Street, Bacchus Marsh. Details: marcmoorabool.com.au

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Eureka MP Michaela Settle, Moorabool councillor Tonia Dudzik, Cr Moira Berry and Moorabool mayor Ally Munari at the opening of the MARC. (Provided)

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Police urge crime data ‘caution’ By Liam McNally Recorded family violence order breaches and recorded family incidents are down in Melton however police say we should be “cautious” about statistics. Latest data from the Victorian Crime Statistics Agency showed a four per cent drop in family incidents in Melton from 2931 incidents to 2815 incidents. This translates to 1362 incidents per 100,000 people. This is the lowest rate in the data on the CSA’s website which is from 2019 onwards and the first time the Melton rate has been lower than

the state average in that period. Family violence order breaches was still the most common offence, but dropped by 243 to 1,669 offences. Moorabool tells a different story with family incidents rising 11.5 per cent on the previous 12 months, with 554 incidents in the year to September. Family violence order breaches was also the most common offence in Moorabool, and rose to the second highest in a decade. However the actual number of offences is much lower than Melton at 319. A Victoria Police spokesperson said family

violence will always be a top priority for police, however they are always cautious when looking at these statistics. “We know this type of offending happens behind closed doors and can often go unreported,” they said. “No one should ever have to feel unsafe in their own home - which is why our detectives are out every day, knocking on doors and ensuring known offenders are complying with their orders. “We understand how much courage it takes for victims of family violence to come forward.” The broader crime statistics show total

offences in Moorabool rose 20.9 per cent to 2445 in the year to September and Melton rose 1.8 per cent to 12,348 offences. The other most common offences were stealing from a motor vehicle and criminal damage in Moorabool and other theft and stealing from a motor vehicle in Melton. Police said when factoring in population growth, overall crime in Melton is at its lowest level since 2014, while overall crime across Moorabool is stable with pre-pandemic levels. “Police are focused on preventing opportunistic offending including home burglaries and car break ins,” they said.

Hume Drive duplication

Peter Bedford. (Jacob Pattison) 382133_06

Racing to save our memories A Bacchus Marsh biker is gearing up in his race against Alzheimer’s disease this year by competing in one of the country’s hardest off-road competitions. In 2022, Peter Bedford represented the Australian Alzheimer’s Research Foundation in the Finke Desert race. Bedford was spurred on to undertake the challenge, his third ever motorcycle race, by the loss of his father to early onset dementia. His self-funded campaign raised $31,000 for the charity. Now, Bedford is midway through a circuit of a dozen Enduro-races to build towards his biggest challenge yet - the 300km Hattah

Desert Race. The race will take place in July, 50 kilometres from Mildura, and Bedford asking the community to “join the fight to save memories” by sponsoring his efforts, with 100 per cent of the money going to support Alzheimer’s research. “Dementia and Alzheimer’s doesn’t discriminate against age… Early onset dementia and Alzheimer’s unfortunately has a history in my family with my father being put into full-time dementia care at 59 years of age,” he said. “Along with this my grandmother and great-grandmother on my dad’s side also

succumbed to dementia-related illness. “My main purpose is to bring much-needed awareness to Alzheimer’s disease and try to generate as much funding and support as possible.” Dementia, which is primarily caused by Alzheimer’s disease, is the second leading cause of death in Australia. More than 472,000 Australians are currently living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and there is currently no cure. Donations can be made via Bedford’s JustGiving page. Details: http://tinyurl.com/366c9f5d

Melton council is duplicating Hume Drive between Gourlay Road and Calder Park Drive by increasing the existing two lanes to four lanes with a new road median. The council said the current single lane carriageway is congested at peak times and the road duplication will improve the flow of traffic along Hume Drive, making it safer for all road users. The project is valued at $8.8 million and construction commenced in December. The council said it is to keep the road open to traffic during the works, but there may be periods of time where there are reduced lanes and delays occur. 40km/h speed limits will be in place throughout the works. Road users are advised to allow extra travel time and to use alternative routes if possible. Traffic disruptions will be communicated ahead of time through electronic sign boards to help drivers plan ahead. As part of the road realignment and duplication council will remove trees and shrubs, which will be re-landscaped with new plants and trees once the intersectionupgrade is complete. Access to the Taylors Hill Village Shopping Centre will be maintained throughout the works. During late 2024, works will be required near to the Taylors Hill Village Shopping Centre that will impact the way vehicles enter and exit the shopping centre car park. The council said it will provide an update ahead of these works and signage will be in place advising of traffic changes.

COVID-19 hospitalisations up in the west over summer COVID-19 hospitalisations and community transmissions are increasing in the west due to a new COVID-19 variant, according to Western Health. The latest quantitative wastewater measures indicate high COVID-19 viral loads in Victorian wastewater and this increase in community transmission is linked to the new variant JN.1 which is causing similar impacts internationally. Western Health is urging the population to take steps to limit transmission, especially to protect those at greatest risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19, including 8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 16 January, 2024

people aged 65 and above, people with a disability or chronic medical condition and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Western Health infectious diseases unit head Dr Marion Kainer said it’s important not to become complacent about COVID-19. “It is still a serious illness, and infections, particularly repeated ones, have been linked to increased risk of heart attacks and strokes among other serious conditions,” she said. Western Health suggested six action to protect the community. Wear a high-quality and well-fitted mask, stay up to date with your COVID-19

vaccine which is available at your GP or local pharmacy, let fresh air in by opening windows and doors when you can, get tested if you have symptoms, stay at home if you have COVID-19 for at least five days and until you have no symptoms and take antivirals if eligible. Dr Kainer said well-fitting P2 or N95 respirators provide excellent protection from infection. “If you do become infected, masks also make it much less likely that you will infect your loved ones. Wear masks or respirators in indoor areas or outside if crowded,” she said.

“The outdoors is your friend during this time of increased transmissions. The risk of getting infected outdoors is 20 times lower, and doing things outside as much as you can is one of the easiest and most practical ways to keep safe. “If you’re indoors, open doors and windows as much as possible. If this is not possible due to inclement weather, investing in a HEPA air filter and running it on the highest setting can also reduce the risk of transmission. When traveling in a car, wearing masks or respirators and opening the window, even a little bit, can make a huge difference.”

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Melbourne Renegades Coach Kal Powers sharing some wisdom. (Damjan Janevski) 382326_01

Renegades pay a visit The Melbourne Renegades Cricket Club visited the Melton Indoor Sports stadium to help young sport fanatics hit their holidays for six with a day-camp cricket clinic. Children from seven to 10 got to learn from the best and participate in cricket activities, games, giveaways and more. The Renegades held a number of Cricket Camps across greater Melbourne and beyond over the week, beginning in Melton on Monday, January 8, before heading to Geelong, Ballarat, South Morang, Werribee, Bendigo, St Kilda, Greenvale and Yarraville. The clinics were a chance for kids to develop their skills, meet new friends and pick-up a few tips from special guests.

Melbourne Renegades hosting a school holiday clinic In Melton. (Damjan Janevski) 382326_06

A man accused of fatally injuring a 61-year-old has fronted court charged over the death. Aaron Bernath, from Maddingley at Bacchus Marsh, was on Saturday charged with murder after police found a 61-year-old man injured at a home on Stonehill Drive on the night of January 11. The man was flown to hospital where he later died. Bernath on Monday morning fronted Melbourne Magistrates Court, where Magistrate Vincenzo Caltabiano remanded him in custody. He was earlier charged with a lesser offence before he was charged with murder, the court was told. Bernath, who sat in the dock wearing a grey tracksuit, said, “yes, your honour“, when he was remanded in custody. Victoria Police earlier said Bernath and the deceased knew each other. Bernath is next due to appear in court on May 30. - AAP

Road works Melton council is replacing the intersection at Greigs and Mount Cottrell roads, Thornhill Park, with a new roundabout. Temporary road closures are in place on Mt Cottrell Road until mid-February. During this time a detour will be in place via Iramoo Circuit and Paynes Road for traffic travelling through the northern leg of Mt Cottrell Road. Two lanes will remain open from Mt Cottrell Road to Greigs Road. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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16 January 2024

Mayor’s message Cr Kathy Majdlik

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

We are celebrating Australia Day with a special citizenship ceremony at Cobblebank Stadium where 400 people from our community will be sworn in as new Australians. There will be activities for the whole family including the chance to meet dingos and reptiles and enjoy some face painting. The Country Women’s Association will be selling homemade crafts and the Melton Valley Rotary club is putting on a BBQ where you can enjoy a classic Aussie snag in bread. The event will be held on Friday 26 January from 10.30am to 12.30pm.

New window art at CS Gallery A new window exhibition has been unveiled at CS Gallery that celebrates our diverse community.

diverse community enjoying all the activities that are on offer in our great City. It shows how each member of the community contributes to making the City of Melton such a great place to live, work and play. The artwork stretches across seven windows. Make sure you visit CS Gallery on Caroline Springs Boulevard.

The Picnic by Justine McAllister represents our multicultural and

Keep bags out of your green bin When it comes to your green bin, small acts make a big impact.

With the festive season now behind us, many families are still on holidays, enjoying the long summer days with friends and relatives. So, I’d like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to take care at home, in the community, and especially on our roads over the coming weeks. Council takes the wellbeing of our residents very seriously, and with lots

Council still has many fun, low-cost or free activities for children and young people on offer throughout the remainder of the holidays. Youth holiday activities include mountain biking, self-defence, and fun activities at Melton Waves, while our libraries have heaps of activities for the young, and young at heart, including crafts, 3D pen play, design and laser printing, and OzoTown mini challenges. So, be

Importantly, Council has acquired a parcel of land that will be home to the much-anticipated aquatic centre in Plumpton.

We want to ensure community needs are heard and we look forward to hearing your feedback on how the centre should look. Council appreciates your patience on such an important project as we take the next step towards delivering an aquatic leisure centre that the City of Melton deserves.

Coburn Ward with Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg of major road infrastructure projects underway, or starting shortly, we want to ensure this summer is enjoyable and memorable for everyone.

During all projects, Council will seek to minimise traffic disruptions as much as possible. Visit melton.vic.gov.au/roadworks for more information.

The design and masterplanning process for the centre is already underway, but this land acquisition is another key milestone in a project that will transform the district.

Bags and caddy liners are not accepted in green bins in the City of Melton – even if they are compostable. Instead, you can line your kitchen caddy, or any container used for collecting food scraps, with paper towel or newspaper and empty them into the green bin. Using your green bin correctly means your food scraps and garden waste can be turned into compost. Learn what goes in your green bin at melton.vic.gov.au/FOGO

I’d like to wish all our residents a very Happy New Year, and hope 2024 brings good health, wealth, and success to each of you.

We will continue our capital works program, which includes a series of road works that are already underway. These works will make our roads safer and better suited to the City of Melton’s growing community.

sure to visit melton.vic.gov.au for more information. Finally, Council has started preparing a draft of its 2024/2025 budget. If you, your community group or sporting club has any ideas or initiatives you’d like considered as part of Councillor budget submissions, please feel free to contact me directly on the numbers below. Feel free to contact me regarding Coburn Ward or Council related issues on 0499 801 183; email: ashleigh.vandenberg@melton.vic. gov.au or like my Facebook page @crvandenberg

Next week we mark Australia Day with a special citizenship ceremony and community event at Cobblebank Stadium from 10.30am on Friday 26 January. We are lucky to call this country home, and this is a day where we celebrate the people who make it such an extraordinary place to live. See you there. 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

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all 10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 16 January, 2024

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

12659485-SN03-24

Australia Day celebrations

Happy New Year everyone. I’m really excited about what 2024 will bring for our great city, including a host of vital projects that Council will be working on.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SECTION

Keep bags out of your green bin. Bags and caddy liners are not accepted in food and garden organics bins in Melton City Council – even if they are compostable. Instead, you can line your kitchen caddy, or any container for collecting food scraps, with paper towel or newspaper and empty them into the green bin when full. Using your green bin correctly means your food scraps and garden waste can be turned into compost. Small acts make a big impact.

Learn what goes in your green bin at melton.vic.gov.au/FOGO

12662060-SN03-24

Tuesday, 16 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Lower rate cap ‘difficult’: CEO By Liam McNally Moorabool council is concerned that the state government’s 2.75 per cent rate cap for the next financial year will make it “increasingly difficult” to provide services and infrastructure. Local Government Minister Melissa Horne announced the rate cap of 2.75 per cent for 2024-25 under the Fair Go Rates system. The rate cap for the current financial year was set at 3.5 per cent. The government accepted the recommendation of the Essential Services Commission regarding the cap, which it said is equal to the forecast Consumer Price Index for

2024-25. Moorabool council chief executive Derek Madden disagreed that the rate cap is in line with inflation. “Inflation is currently running at five per cent and is likely to remain higher for longer than previously expected, according to experts and the RBA which will be a worry for many,” he said. “Council recognises the environment we are operating in and is aware of the cumulative impact the setting of the rate cap below CPI for the last number of years is having on the services we offer. “Council believes setting the rate cap well below inflation may not be good practice and

will make it increasingly difficult for rural and regional shires in particular to sustain the level of services and infrastructure that ratepayers demand in the face of rising costs.” Mr Madden said that despite this, the council recognises the financial challenges that residents face and will do its best to work within the parameters that have been set while advocating strongly for the state to provide grant support as needed. “However, meeting the community’s expectations in investment in key areas such as road and asset maintenance becomes increasingly challenging in a low-rate cap environment where severe weather events

have had repeated devastating impacts,” he said. Melton council chief financial advisor Peter Leersen said council has not met since the rate cap was announced and will discuss it next month during preparation of the 2024-25 Council budget. “Ensuring rates are kept as low as possible for residents, particularly in difficult economic times, is always at the forefront of council’s decision-making when preparing the budget,” he said. Ms Horne said Fair Go Rates mean households have certainty over their council rates and in 2024-25, the increase will be kept to the forecast inflation rate.

Events to check out on Jan 26

Hoppys Place owner-operators Tania and Barry Milton. (Kyad Photography)

Animal rescue shelter seeks help Demand for animal rescue services is at crisis level according to a Melton cat-rescue, which is seeking more volunteers. Hoppys Place works with local pounds, vets, and the general-public to rehome stray and surrendered cats who have been abused, abandoned and neglected. Owner Tania Milton said that over the last three months of 2023 demand for their service tripled, and there are now more than 70 cats in their care. “On average, we receive about seven calls per day to help with cats and kittens needing

assistance,” she said. “Now the Christmas presents are starting to come back… we already received two [before the new year].” Ms Milton said cats coming into their care due to domestic violence has also tripled, and she’s seen others need to euthanize animals when they can’t get them rehomed. “Hoppys Rescue is slowly growing and we are reaching out to the general public in the hopes to find some real animal lovers who want to help with the day to day running of the rescue,” she said.

“We are in urgent need of volunteers - IT savvy people to be our profile writers… Transporters for vet runs for both day and afternoon… We also require a few people to look after our auction page and monitor activity and responses. “Please get in contact with Hoppys Place Rescue Inc if you can help our cause.” Ms Milton also urged the public to take responsibility for their pets and have them de-sexed, and emphasised the importance of stamping out back yard breeders. Details: https://hoppysplace.org.au/

With citizenship ceremony’s, activity days and mourning events there’s a broad range of events happening on January 26, reflecting Melton and Moorabool’s diverse community. In the morning Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation will be holding a Survival Day Breakfast Barbeque. From 9.30am to 11.30 am at 26 Exford Road Kirrip will provide breakfast while guests mourn and remember our ancestors who can only be present in spirit. Melton Council is hosting a special citizenship ceremony and free community event at Cobblebank Stadium from 10.30am where 400 people will be sworn in as new Australians. There will be activities for the whole family including the chance to meet dingos and reptiles, face painting, crafts and a sausage sizzle. Moorabool council will hold Australia Day celebrations, which includes presentation of Australia Day awards and an Australian Citizenship Ceremony. It will be held from 9.30 am at the Bacchus Marsh public hall. Eynesbury will be hosting an Australia Day Party from midday that will include water slides, kids rides, food trucks and a collaborative Ipod Shuffle playlist. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said Australia Day is a time to celebrate the people who make the country we are blessed to call home so special. “The citizenship ceremony is a highlight for me and I’m looking forward to congratulating our new citizens,” she said.

Volunteers check in to register the safety of the Melton community A Melton volunteer group that works in conjunction with Melton Police to provide connection and safety to the community is keen to let the community know it is there for them in 2024. The Melton Community Safety Register is a little known but dedicated volunteer group that assists with welfare calls to ensure the safety of people in the local community. The group launched in 2006 as an initiative of the Melton Police. The volunteers work in a room at the station and give a welfare call that usually lasts for just a few minutes, to check up once a week on clients that are registered on their database. If the client can’t be contacted after multiple attempts or through a next of kin, police are

Melton Community Safety Register volunteers with Melton Senior Sergeant Gus Storer. 379380_01

asked to do a welfare check. Melton Community Safety Register volunteer Jan Douglas said making contact

12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 16 January, 2024

is reassuring to not only the client but the volunteer as well. “Originally we started as the Melton Seniors

Register, but there’s a lot of people in the community that are vulnerable, live on their own, are lonely, or would like someone to reach out to them, so now anyone can get a phone call once a week,” she said. “People tell us they look forward to our call. You get to know people that you’re talking to… you can hear in the voice if they’re not well today, and we can pass that on.” Ms Douglas also praised the team’s 30 hardworking volunteers. “We thank all the volunteers for the time and effort they put in, some of whom have been working since the start, nearly 17 years of service,” she said. To request phone calls, ring the register on 9747 7909.

MY PLACE Comfort Kennedy is a 23-year-old Kurunjang woman who, through her dedication to volunteering, was recently named one of Melton’s Young Citizens of the Year. She spoke to Star Weekly about her connection to Melton. Tell us a bit about you and what you do? I love getting out in nature and keeping active. I love a good book, going to the cinema or simply spending quality time with my friends and family. I’m currently completing my Bachelor of Psychology (Honours), working and volunteering. What’s your connection to Melton? I have lived in the City of Melton since late 2018. I also volunteer and spend time with friends in Melton. What volunteer work do you do? I am a current member of the Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) for Melton City Council and an English tutor with the Adult Migrant English program and also have been volunteering as a camera operator and camera director at Equip International Church. What do you enjoy about it, and what impacts have you seen it have on the community? With YAC, I love that I can be part of the decisions that are impacting me and the young people in my community. Being a part of planning and facilitating events such as the youth forum, career expo, or contributing to initiatives that impact young people in Melton. It has extended my perception of the local council, in a good way. These opportunities have also developed my leadership, communication and teamwork capacity. In reflection, I have grown so much and been humbled during various interactions, it has all been very fulfilling. What was it like to be named one of Melton’s Young Citizens of the Year, and what did it mean to you? It was a wonderful experience. I am deeply appreciative and consider it a privilege to win such an award. It means so much more than I can articulate right now. What do you like about where you live?

Comfort Kennedy. (Damjan Janevski) 382734_01

I love how multicultural it is, and the large area Melton City Council covers. I love the events, local shops, free/paid classes available for everyone. For example, I picked up beginner guitar lessons with ‘5 Minutes to Music’ last year in Fraser Rise. I had the best time, met amazing people and learnt from Alan, one of the best music teachers! There’s was so much available to me, when I took time to look. What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

I would love more nature parks and, a bigger and more visible Melton youth facility. There are so many young people in Melton and amazing staff at Melton’s Youth Centre who facilitate events and resources for young people. Hence, that would be awesome to see in the future. Where is your favourite local place to spend time? Oh, that is tough. I really enjoy my time at Melton library. GYG too of course - I spent

numerous nights there towards the end of 2023 writing my thesis and enjoying a taco or two. A few workers probably know me by name. Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. I am a co-manager of my family’s cake business- Cakes n’ Decor Station. Therefore, on the weekends, you’ll find me assisting my mum to create one or more custom cakes and cupcakes for our lovely customers.

Kids splash into school holiday summer fun School holidays and summer sunshine come together to create the perfect conditions for families to get into Melton Waves Leisure Centre to cool off on a fun day out. Photographer Damjan Janevski visited last week to photograph the action.

Nathan (9) helping keep Ryan (5) afloat. 382746_05

Stefan (10) hanging out and cooling off. 382746_06

Loriana spending a day out with her sons Marcus (9) and Jeremy (7). 382746_01

Mary and her daughter Isabella (9) having a swim together. 382746_02

Family fun with siblings Rian (9), Siera (7) and Dion (5). 382746_03

Briana (11) and Addison (9) having a splash together. 382746_04 Tuesday, 16 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13

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Mum warns of water beads harm By Tara Murray Western suburbs mum Sana Awan is warning parents about the danger ‘water beads’ can cause after her son had to have one surgically removed after swallowing it. Ms Awan was having a quiet night in when her eldest daughter said, “mum, Muhammad has something in his mouth”. Ms Awan rushed to her seven-month-old son Muhammad Usman and discovered he had a “water bead” in his mouth - a tiny, round polymer ball commonly sold as a child’s sensory toy. She tried to remove the bead with her finger but thought that Muhammad had swallowed it. He was coughing and distressed and Ms Awan became worried. Some brands of water bead can potentially expand up to 400 times their original size when they come into contact with water, presenting a choking hazard if ingested. “The bead came from inside a squishy frog toy that burst,” Ms Awan said. “I googled water beads and they can be quite dangerous for kids, but a lot of people don’t know the dangers. They can be dangerous for older kids too because kids might think they look like food and want to put them in their mouths.” After her call to Nurse-On-Call was transferred to Victoria’s Virtual Emergency Department, Ms Awan and Muhammad were directed to go straight to Sunshine Hospital. “I was very worried,” she said. “His tongue was blue and he was really uncomfortable. I knew we had to get help. We went to the hospital and the doctors and nurses were great. Ms Awan took a water bead with her into the hospital and put it in a glass of water to help

Muhammad Usman has now recovered (Supplied)

demonstrate how fast the bead was expanding and how large it would become. Muhammad was kept under observation and no symptoms were observed, but his situation deteriorated when he began to have difficulty breathing. A medical assessment and a chest imaging confirmed that the water bead had actually entered Muhammad’s lung, expanded and was causing a life-threatening blockage. He was transferred to the Royal Children’s Hospital where the bead was

surgically removed. Sunshine Hospital paediatric emergency medicine director Associate Professor David Krieser said it was a very serious situation that quickly became a life-threatening medical emergency. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and Choice have issued safety warnings about water beads in recent years due to the choking hazard and the beads often being brightly coloured and attractive to children.

Associate Professor Krieser warned parents to be very cautious with water beads, especially in a household with children under five years of age. Symptoms to be aware of are choking, breathing difficulty, vomiting or abdominal pain. Ms Awan is just grateful her son is safe. “All I want to say is be careful with these toys, they can be very dangerous if little ones inhale them. We don’t want any family to go through what we went through.”

GRUFFALO PLUSH & BOOKS

Order now on aussietoysonline.com.au 14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 16 January, 2024

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COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

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

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

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

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

This week’s photographer’s choice is from the F15 national championships held last week. (Jacob Pattison)

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 Valley Ladies Probus Club

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

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

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

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

Community Band Melton Cycling Club 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

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

Melton Bridge Club The Melton Bridge Club has weekly social bridge sessions at the Melton Library on Fridays from 10am-noon. Come along to play an exciting, social card game and have loads of fun. Bridge offers the suspense of poker, the cerebral qualities of chess and the excitement of athletic sports, all in a relaxed and social setting.

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

Melton Combined Probus Club 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

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

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, 0498329290

BusyFeet Hillside

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

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 11-11.45am Saturday mornings. ■ Ross, 0411 228 311

Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh

Sunrise Social Groups

Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh make reusable shopping bags from rescued 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, 2-5pm. ■ https://63ec55b8628d6.site123.me/

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

Melton Trauma Teddies

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park

Bacchus Marsh and District Garden Club

The Rose Carers meet Wednesdays from

The club meets on the second Tuesday of

Tuesday, 16 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15

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

easy

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

5 3

8 3 5 7 2 9 2 7 8 4 3 2 9

7 3

medium

3 6 9 8 2

7 2 4

QUICK CROSSWORD Conspiracy (5) Falls; gives way (9) Female name (7) Foozle (7) Matured (8) Specify (6) Insect (3) Form before butterfly (11) Technology devices (11) Muscle contraction (3) Fuel oil (6) Half-hearted (8) Someone who has stopped working for a living (7) Truancy (7) Learning; erudition (9) Give way; surrender (5)

25 26 27

Link (10) Citrus fruit (4) Hired killers (9) Having three dimensions (7) Polish (5) Form words (10) Principal church of a diocese (9) Endorse (9) Modern music genre (7) Neophyte (7) Male name (5) Theme (5) Honey drink (4)

4 5 6 7 8 13 15

ACROSS 1 4 9 10 11 12 14 15 17 19 20 21 24

No. 168

16 18 19 20 22 23

DOWN Fellow student (9) Capital of Northern Ireland (7) Looped rope (5)

1 2 3

DECODER

No. 168

1 6 2

7 3 9

3 5

9 6 8 7 1

3 9 4

hard

10 11 12 13

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

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

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

Today’s Aim: 11 words: Good 17 words: Very good

C D

No. 168

/ $ 9 ( 1 ' ( 5

AVERT BOGUS CANOE CHEAT CHESS CLIFF DANCE DEATH DELIS EASEL ELDER EVADE EVENT FAUNA FOALS GEESE GENES HEART HOTEL IDLER INNER

4 LETTERS DYES EDGE FLEA GETS OPAL SEAR SETS SILO SLID YARN 5 LETTERS ABIDE ACTED ARISE ASHES

LASER LEERS LEVEL LIBEL NEEDS OLIVE OVERS PEARS PLATE RESTS RIVET ROUTE RULER SCALE SHIRE SLEWS SLING STAIR STEMS STRIP TIARA

UNCLE UTTER

INERTIA ITALICS RIPPLED STERILE

6 LETTERS BEDLAM DESERT FLOWER MASSES REBELS THIRDS

8 LETTERS IDEALISE ITEMISED LAVENDER LOVELIER

7 LETTERS DIETARY IMITATE

10 LETTERS DETERRENTS REMORSEFUL

19-01-24

No. 168 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

W E D G E P E N S

D M I T R A C E A T I N

A G L

16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 16 January, 2024

cede, ceded, club, clue, clued, cube, cubed, cuddle, decibel, decide, deduce, DEDUCIBLE, deuce, deuced, dice, diced, educe, educed, educible, iced, lice, lucid, ludic

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

3 LETTERS AIL ATE BYE DEW DRY EAR EEL ELM ERA ERR FED ICY IMP LIE NOR OIL ONE ORE OVA RUE SEW SPY

N N

T 20

T C

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

M R

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

23 words: Excellent

hard

5x5

medium

easy

6 4 8 7 1 9 6 5 8 9 4 7 5 8 7 1 5 4 8 7 9 4

K U R DV F A S G P Y EW

9 6

Q C X I O BMN J H Z T L

WORDFIT

QUICK QUIZ

How many stars are on the flag of the European Union?

Dolly, the first mammal to be cloned from an adult somatic cell, was what kind of animal?

What is an abacus used for?

Sisters Alana, Danielle and Este are the members of which US rock band?

The Thinker is a bronze sculpture by which French artist?

Which 2022 film, starring Adam Driver (pictured), is based on a 1985 novel by Don DeLillo?

What four letters are found on the coloured buttons on an Xbox game controller?

Of the six types of coins of the Japanese yen, how many have holes in them?

Which country are Chupa Chups lollipops from?

10 Ha is the abbreviation for what metric unit of measurement?

ANSWERS: 1. 12 2. Sheep 3. Performing arithmetic calculations 4. HAIM 5. Auguste Rodin 6. White Noise 7. A, B, X, Y 8. Two 9. Spain 10. Hectare

No. 168

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

SUDOKU

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Peugeot releases all EV SUV By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring Launched here in September 2023, the e-2008 is Peugeot’s first fully electric passenger. A compact SUV, it joins the e-Partner compact electric van as well as the Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) versions of the 3008 SUV and 508 sedan. Future electrified models will follow in 2024 with the launch of E-208 hatchback, E-3008 mid-sized SUV, e-Expert medium van and 408 PHEV. The petrol-powered Peugeot 2008 has been on sale here since 2020. It comes in two variants, Allure and GT each with a PureTech 130 engine that generates 96 kilowatts of power and 230 Newton metres of torque mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The previous GT Sport model, with a more powerful (114 kW/240 Nm) engine was dropped from the range in 2022 to effectively make way for the e-2008. STYLING Peugeot 2008 is a stunning looking car from every angle. The front is large and expansive grille with a complex chequered louvered-style fill. The window lines swoop up beautifully as they pass the centre of the rear doors. The wheel arches are large and carry black lips to emphasise that it’s an SUV. Interestingly, the e-2008 bucks the current trend in EV design where the front is closed off, by retaining the grille from the petrol variants. It’s only there for cosmetic purposes with the only difference being that the fill matches the body colour. There are large scallops in the doors and a black panel all the way across the rear that carries large lights. The roof extends beyond the glass top and sides to give a sort of spoiler look. The e-2008 comes with 18-inch Evissa black diamond cut alloy wheels. INTERIOR Although it’s classed as a five-seater, like most cars of similar size the 2008 is more a four-plus-one. Those in the front seats might have to give up some legroom to make better space for tall rear travellers. The e-2008 comes with the latest version of the Peugeot i-Cockpit which combines the small sport steering wheel with a large head-up instrument panel and central infotainment touch screen, blended together and ergonomically positioned. The front seats are heated with power adjustment for the driver seat, which includes lumbar and massage. The e-2008’s boot has the same volume as the petrol models. That’s 434 litres with all seats in use, and 1467 litres with the 60:40 rear seats both folded down, although they don’t fold flat. There’s a slim out-of-sight area below the floor ideal for storing the charging cables. The petrol 2008s get a space saver spare wheel but the e-2008 only has a tyre repair kit. POWERTRAIN The e-2008 is based on Peugeot’s Common Modular Platform and combines a 50 kWh battery with a 100 kW front-mounted electric motor driving the front wheels to provide up to 260 Nm of torque with a driving range of up to 330 kilometres using the WLTP test regime. There are three driving modes Sport, Normal and Eco. The charging point is located at the rear passenger’s side and has the usual AC and DC sockets. With three-phase power and a 16A Wallbox the maximum charge rate is 11 kW for a charge time of around five hours. Using a 7.4 kW 32A Wallbox that increases to 7.5 hours and, with a 10A domestic electrical power plug, full charge will take around 24 hours. Using a commercial DC 100kW quick charge 0 to 80 percent can be achieved in about 30 minutes. SAFETY The e-2008 hasn’t been ANCAP tested but the petrol variants were tested in 2019 and received the maximum five-star rating. Safety consists of six airbags, a rear-view camera, autonomous emergency braking and

Peugeot adds electric economy to the great looks of the 2008 SUV.

advanced grip control with snow, sand and mud modes. There’s also driver attention alert, forward collision warning, blind spot warning, lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance, in-crash braking, auto hazard light activation and tyre pressure monitoring. The e-2008 adds adaptive cruise control, enhanced autonomous emergency braking, active lane following assist, and acoustic vehicle alerting system which generates an audible signal outside the vehicle for pedestrian safety. Missing is rear cross traffic alert and a 360-degree camera. Two ISOFIX child seat anchors along with three top tethers are provided. INFOTAINMENT Peugeot e-2008 gets a large 10-inch horizontal infotainment screen that is clear and reasonably easy to use. Our preference is always a vertical screen because you can see much more without the need to scroll, but the Peugeot does work better than most. There’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smart phone mirroring, as well as DAB+ radio

and satellite navigation. DRIVING Entry is quite easy even for larger occupants and the seats are large, supportive and comfortable. Like all other electrified vehicles, the instant torque provides exhilarating speed off the mark. The dash to 100km/h takes fairly modest 9.0 seconds, well below that of most of its competitors. The car’s regenerative braking can be accessed through a button on the centre console rather than the more convenient steering wheel paddles of most EVs. It does not have a single-pedal mode. The battery adds 324kg on to the tare weight of the e-2008 when compared with the petrol 2008. There’s a sedate feel in the cabin during normal driving that almost feels like you’re in a larger car, even a prestige car at times. The French do like their comfort and this shows up beautifully. That’s despite the slightly sporty set up in the suspension. On the open road with twisty bits, it handles

nicely and gives feedback through the steering wheel. On motorways its smooth and almost silent, bump-thump is felt through some joints in other ones it’s fine. SUMMING UP Although the e-2008’s combination of price ($60k) and range (330km) compares poorly against its Chinese rivals that are getting under the $40k mark and in excess of 400km it will still appeal to the loyal band of Peugeot fans looking at moving into an EV for the first time. As with all Peugeot vehicles, the e-2008 comes with a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty and eight-year 160,000 km battery warranty. RATINGS n Looks: 9/10 n Performance: 8/10 n Safety: 8.5/10 n Thirst: 7.5/10 n Practicality: 8/10 n Comfort: 8/10 n Tech: 8/10 n Value: 7.5/10

Tuesday, 16 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Australian batsman David Warner has announced his retirement from which form of cricket?

4. Australian rules footballer Lin Jong played 65 games for which AFL club between 2012 and 2021?

12. Matildas defender Charli Grant recently joined which Women’s Super League club?

2. New Collingwood AFLW coach Sam Wright played 136 games for which AFL club?

5. Perth and Sydney are host to the second edition of which international outdoor hard court mixed-gender team tennis tournament?

13. Which Australian defeated Novak Djokovic in the recent United Cup tournament?

3. The 2023-24 Detroit Pistons recorded the longest losing streak in a single NBA season, with how many consecutive losses?

14. The Sydney Swans will be celebrating what milestone anniversary in 2024?

6. US businessman Mark Cuban recently sold his majority stake in which NBA team?

15. Which Melbourne Renegades player and former Australian Twenty20 captain recently announced his retirement?

7. What type of venomous animal forced a break in play during a qualification match at the 2024 Brisbane International?

16. What is the nickname of the NFL team based in Buffalo, New York?

8. Mitch Kenny last played for which NRL club?

17. In which state does the 2024 Santos Tour Down Under take place?

9. Following the merger of the XFL and USFL, which American football minor league is set to debut in March 2024?

18. Which country is hosting the AFC Asian Cup tournament in 2024?

10. English 16-yearold Luke Littler made history by becoming the youngest player to reach the semifinals of which World Championship?

Tom Daley

Novak Djokovic

19. Japanese baseball star Shohei Ohtani will play for which Major League team in 2024? 20. What was the first sport women were allowed to compete in at the 1900 Olympic Games?

11. How many Test matches did David Warner play in his career?

28. Adelaide player Mark Keane previous played for which other AFL team?

21. The first Commonwealth Games was held in what year? 22. The Diamonds represent Australia in what sport?

29. Which country won the 2024 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships?

23. How many Olympic medals does Tom Daley have?

30. And who did they beat?

24. Which retired wrestler is coming to Australia in February for a series of shows? 25. In what year did the Adelaide 36ers last win the NBL championship? 26. Lara Dunkley plays for which Super Netball team? 27. What are the nicknames of the two MLB teams that play out of Los Angeles?

1901

1. One Day International 2. North Melbourne 3. 28 4. Western Bulldogs 5. United Cup 6. Dallas Mavericks 7. Snake 8. Penrith Panthers 9. UFL (United Football League) 10. World Darts Championship 11. 112 12. Tottenham Hotspur 13. Alex de Minaur 14. 150 years 15. Aaron Finch 16. Bills 17. South Australia 18. Qatar 19. Los Angeles Dodgers 20. Tennis 21. 1930 22. Netball 23. Four (one gold, three bronze) 24. The Undertaker 25. 2002 (the 2001-02 season) 26. Queensland Firebirds 27. Dodgers and Angels 28. Collingwood 29. US 30. Sweden V

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St Anthonys remain undefeated It was another strong performance from St Anthony’s in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association’s Jensen Shield on the weekend, chasing Hanging Rock down with relative ease. ‘ After sending Hanging Rock in and dismissing them for 137, the Saints were able to chase the runs down in just 24 overs and only four wickets down. The Saints finished 4-141. Gurinder Singh Grewal was a clear standout for the Saints with both with the ball and taking five for 16 from his seven overs, before making an unbeaten 57 in the chase. “The team is going really well, and we’re building really nicely, hopefully towards a finals spot,” coach Jason Orr said. “There is a lot of experience in that team, and I think the confidence is there with that

bat that we can chase down any score. “We’ve now got a couple of guys in the middle order who are quite quick and play it like a 20-20 style game and it worked for them yesterday and they got the score really quickly which puts confidence in us moving forward. “We’re very happy with Gurinder, he’s been very consistent. A lot of the middle order guys have been really consistent throughout the year and the bowlers share the wickets around as well. They’ve had good years and Gurinder is a good bowler, he’s a smart cricketer, he’s been around for a while, he knows his game pretty well and played well.” The Saints sit in second spot, equal ladder leaders Aintree, with both sides undefeated. With just five rounds to go before finals, each win is becoming more and more important. “We just take it one game at a time,” Orr

said. “I think the important thing for us is to try and get a home final, I think with a home final your half halfway there, or a good chance to get into the grand final. “So that’s a big thing for us, but we need to keep winning, just to get confidence in guys and keep the momentum going.” Next week the undefeated sides will face off in a mouth-watering clash at Woodlea Reserve, which Orr and his side can not wait for. “It’s going to be a tough game, they’ve gone really well all year,” he said. “The game earlier in the season was called off because of rain so it’s going to be a real test for us but I’m confident that we can get through it.” Harper Sercombe Jason Orr (Shawn Smits)

Lions put up brave fight Melton was unable to win its second game for the season on Saturday, although it didn’t go down without a fight against St Bernard’s in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-west. The Lions lost the toss with St Bernard’s deciding to bat, which at first seemed like the perfect toss to lose as they had St Bernard’s on the ropes at 6-34, including three wickets in four balls for Rhys Berry to put Bernard’s at 4-15. Yet an eighth wicket partnership between Conor McGuire and Kyle Adams rescued St Bernard’s taking their side from 8-59 to 9-167, before eventually ending the innings at 9-173. Berry was the standout bowler for the Lions taking 3-20. Lions’ coach Mitch Stephens said it was disappointing to not reap the benefits of their good early work. “There have been a couple of moments throughout the year where we have bowled well throughout the middle but haven’t been able to close off an innings, just certain little areas in terms of where we are bowling and our lines and plans that we’re not executing at the moment,” he said. “We’ve spoken about that as a bowling group and I’m sure the guys are working hard on their plans and working with Ben MacRae (captain). It’s just not coming off at the moment which is very disappointing. “Rhys Berry has been awesome for us all year and he’s only missed out on wickets in one game this year so he’s been a massive inclusion for us this season and he benefits on and off the field, he works hard off the field as well and supports his teammates around him which is great. “They are very good competition St Bernard’s, but I think our boys just lost key moments of the game yesterday and we spoke about it after the game, it was another game that we have been in the fight for but we’ve found a way to lose, it’s disappointing but these little moments keep adding up throughout the year.” The Lions’ innings began better than their oppositions with Brenton Cook opening the batting and top scoring for his side with 54. However, the rest of the innings was scarred by wickets falling close together, making partnership batting and run scoring tough. The Lions were bowled out for 149 with seven balls left in the innings. “All credit to Brenton Cook again, he’s starting to come through now with his runs, he’s had two starts the last couple of weeks, but he knows he really missed out on going big after a dominant start like that,” Stephens said. “Our middle order just lose key wickets at the moment in clumps, you can never get on top in a run chase when you lose wickets in clumps. “We only lost by 24 runs, it’s not the worst

Sports shorts A-League Western United’s round 13 game in the A-League Men’s competition has been postponed. Western United has worked with Australian Professional Leagues to seek a venue for the men’s fixture against Adelaide United on January 20 for a number of weeks. After several venues were turned down due to lack of availability, including AAMI Park, GMHBA Stadium, Mars Stadium, Morshead Park and Ikon Park, United was granted permission to postpone the fixture until a later date. The postponement will allow this fixture to be held at the club’s new venue upon its completion.

Ballarat FNL The Ballarat Football Netball League will kick off on April 13. The league announced its fixture late last year, with no Good Friday games to occur this year. Darley has a big start to the season taking on East Point in round one and then it’s the football and netball grand final rematch in round two, both under lights. Bacchus Marsh will start its season against Ballarat, and Melton South will host Melton in the local derby. The first Darley and Bacchus Marsh derby will be held in round three.

Ballarat NL Bacchus Marsh is holding trials ahead of the Ballarat Netball League season. The Cobras will hold trials on February 1 between 6-8pm at the Maddingley Park netball courts, as they assess players for all six teams. Trial registration is free, with paid contracts offered to A-grade selections. Details: https://ow.ly/ vntF50QqbNI.

Ballarat NL Melton is holding netball trials for this year’s Ballarat Netball League season on February 3 between 10am-noon. The club is holding trials for all six of its sides starting at A-grade and down to under-19s. Details: netball@ meltonfnc.com.au or 0435 798 216.

Rhys Berry (Jacob Pattison)372628_05

result… It was disappointing but we’re still learning, still developing from a lot of key points during the game.” Next week the Lions face Taylors Lakes, in another one-day match, which remain in a strong position on the ladder despite losing their last two matches.

20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 16 January, 2024

“Every week is different, especially in the white ball game, it’s whoever performs best and for longer on the day,” Stephens said. “We speak about being more disciplined for longer, so we will bring our best and no doubt go hard again.”

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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United ties despite two goals from Daniel Penha Western United remain on the bottom of the A-League Men’s table after a last minute goal denied the club victory against Macarthur on Friday night. Ben Garuccio got United off to a perfect start with a goal inside the opening couple of minutes but the Bull’s Ulises Davila struck either side of half-time to put Macarthur in the lead The green and black continued to dominate and finally broke through to equalise through Daniel Penha, and the Brazilian went on to score a stunning second goal to put United back in front. That goal seemed like it might have been the winner but Macarthur stayed in it and Davila completed his hat-trick in the 90th minute to ensure both sides left with a point. United coach John Aloisi said while the sides split the points, it felt like a loss. “Not because we had the lead because we

dominated, and we had the majority of the opportunities,” he said. “We lost our way a little bit in the first half for about 20 minutes, then we gained control again towards the end of the first half, then we had control of the game in the second, they caught us with a bad mistake from us for their second goal. “But what’s pleasing is that even though the position we were in the boys didn’t drop their heads, they kept going, they kept fighting. Especially in these conditions because we’re not used to these conditions down in Melbourne and they kept on going and deserved to be in front. “Then we copped a late goal which was unfortunate because it was first of all a handball earlier, that they couldn’t bring back because the play had gone on, but it was a very clear handball from their player and then it hits Davila head and then hits Jacob Tratt’s

head and it goes in the top corner. “At the moment that’s what we’re having to deal with, we just have to keep focussing, keep pushing to the next game now, get the next result and then try to get a win.” A shining light for United was the brace of Penha who returned to form in a pleasing way for Aloisi. “Daniel had been out of the game for a long period of time with an ACL injury, it was going to take him time to get to the level we know he can get to and believe he can get to,” Aloisi said. “I had a bit of a chat to him before the game because he’s feeling that he needs to be the one to take the team forward and I just told him to be calm and enjoy football because he was out of football for a year and to enjoy the game. “I hope this is a start and he keeps on performing like he did today.”

Daniel Penha (Western United)

Teams lock in finals spots

Caroline Springs George Cross (Mark Avelino)

George Cross aims high By Harper Sercombe Caroline Springs George Cross has its sights set on becoming a foundation member of the National Second Division (NSD) competition The competition, which will be between the A-League and National Premier League competitions, is set to kick off in 2025, with the first eight teams already announced. The rest of the inaugural teams are to be announced this year. George Cross was always keen to be a part of the NSD however, with the competition first scheduled to kick off in 2024 it did not believe it had enough time to fully acquit itself to the requirements a national competition demands. In a statement, the club confirmed their willingness to become a foundation member of the new competition. “The NSD offers the club, players, and the broader community a platform to thrive and contribute to the growth and success of football nationwide,” the statement said. “With a rich history spanning more than 75 years, the organisation has played a pivotal role in nurturing and developing players at both a grassroots and elite level in both Malta

and Australia.” President Mark Sultana told Star Weekly the extra year runway into the NSD will provide the club with enough time to get its ducks in a row. “George Cross itself was a part of the initial inquiries into the National Second Division… but we opted to not go with the first round of applications only because… it probably wasn’t the right time for the club,” he said. “The fact that they [Football Australia] have come out now and said that NSD is going to be a 2025 scenario has given us a full year to execute and understand in actual facts what it means for the football club. “And that aligns a fair few of the members and let’s say private equity people that would probably want to invest into the George Cross national second tier team. “Now that the club is into the NPL2 program means that the club now has the appetite to extend its progress and its growth into a national element of football.” The club has only recently returned to relevancy in a soccer sense with back-to-back promotions and facilities that are at a professional standard, with Its City Vista

facilities being used by Western United in the A-League Women’s giving the club the clout it once had. “That gives credibility to our product as a football club and a very strong brand is also key,” Sultana said. “We have a very strong, 76-year-old brand that has been part of a national football program when we were in the NSL. “The team, the board, the coaches and all the members have done a great job in getting this club back to where it needs to be, it now again has credibility within the football world. “We’ve got the ground, we’ve got [a 20 year continuance] of the lease, we’ve got council support, we’ve got strong membership, strong leadership in the board, a great coach, and there’s a strong brand and we all know branding is important especially when we’re talking at a national level.” While Sultana admits there is still water to go under the bridge with slight facility upgrades in terms of seating and lighting yet to happen, and further equity investments still to come on board, he and the club is steadfast on being an inaugural member of the NSD.

Grand United, St Albans and Altona North all locked in finals spots in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition on Thursday night. Rain played havoc again with many matches scheduled for Tuesday night. Several matches were rescheduled to a couple of days later. Grand United upset Sydenham-Hillside in the Hughes group on Thursday night. The winner of this match would move through to the next round, with both sides having beaten the Doutta Stars. The Gorillas won the toss and decided to bat, making 9-144 from their overs. Leniko Boucher top scored with 56 from 41 balls at the top of the order. Ben Green was the pick of the bowlers, taking four wickets. The Storm finished 9-93. Ishan Peiris top scored with 48. St Albans beat Melton South to top the Hassett group. Having both beaten Burnside Springs previously, the winner of this match would progress to the next round. The Saints, who are in senior division, batted first making 9-124 from their overs. The lower ranked Royals put up a fight but were restricted to 9-99 from their 20 overs. Altona North faced Footscray Angliss on Thursday night in its rescheduled match. Angliss were bowled out for 93 in with nine balls remaining. Domenic Di Guglielmo and Connor Smith took three wickets each. Altona North had no issue in the run chase, finishing 4-97 in the 14th over. The three teams join Point Cook Centrals, Yarraville Club, Williamstown Imperials, Deer Park and Keilor, which have already qualified for the finals.

Grand United’s Benjamin Doll. (Luke Hemer) 205108_06

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Burras bowlers doing well as club looks for win While the losses keep coming for Diggers Rest Bulla in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup, the pieces are starting to come together for the club. While the Burras again lost on the weekend, this time to Macedon, they were competitive in defeat, keeping the Cats to just 161 from the 40 overs. The Burras fell short in the chase making bowled out for 136 in 43 overs. Captain-coach Darren Quarrell said his side has come leaps and bounds in the bowling side of the game, however, they still leave much to be desired in terms of their batting. “The fielding side of it was very good, it’s been a huge improvement on what we were doing before Christmas, it’s a big change,” he said. “So we’re going well in that side of the game but our batting is a different story. “The total was definitely chasable, there

Tristan Krizanic (Ljubica Vrankovic)

were a couple of batsmen there who should have made runs but didn’t. There were a couple there that I think threw their wicket away which I wasn’t happy about.

“But there were also a couple who stepped up, who showed a bit of guts to try and get the total, but it just wasn’t to be.” Nathan Anderson and Lachlan Andrews led the way with the ball, taking 3-15 and 2-27 respectively. “Nathan is a stump to stump bowler, he can torment the batsman and then bowl an inswinger and get an LB [W] or a bowled,” Quarrell said. “He’s an awesome bowler to square them up and tie the runs down. Lachie had a bit of trouble, he kept on bowling it down the leg side, bowled a few wides, but once he got it on track he was very hard to hit away.” With the bat the highlight was young recruit Tristan Krizanic who made 31 batting at four. With Sunbury Kangaroos to come on the weekend Quarrell said he is hoping some

of his batsmen can get that first win they are desperately seeking for. “Nathan [Crosland] batted really well during the one-dayer, so hopefully he can back that up… Tristan has been batting great this season,” he said. “Alex Hassett’s a bit up and down at the moment but he’s just come off turf so he is trying to adjust to the hard wicket which is understandable. “A couple of others need to work on mentally preparing themselves to get themselves in first and then start playing their shots instead of swinging across the line at the start. “[Our goal for the rest of the season is] to win one.” Other winners were Rupertswood, Sunbury United and Macedon. Gisborne and Romsey’s match was abandoned due to rain.

New squad unveiled for the Big V

Under-15 winning Central Highlands team. (Supplied)

Highlanders claim Cup By Tara Murray It might have been a rainy end, but Central Highlands have claimed the inaugural under-15 girls Cricket Victoria Country Cup. The cup, which is part of a rejigged pathway system, had the best players from the regional areas in Victoria face off against each other. The Highlanders finished on top of their pool with three wins from four games, to face the Gippsland Pride, in the grand final. While the game got underway, only 14 overs were played as rain set in. As the highest ranked team after the pool rounds, the Highlanders were awarded the title. Highlanders coach Jenna Fowlie said it was a bittersweet way to win the title. “We got out there and managed to get 14 overs,” she said. “I knew we would get a start, it was a matter of how long the rain held out for. “We didn’t get back out there so it was a bit of an anti climax.

“We are ecstatic to get the win.” Fowlie said the thought hadn’t even crossed her mind heading into the game that they were the highest ranked team and would be crowned the winner had there been no result. In the 14 overs they did play, the Highlanders were on top having the Pride in trouble at 4-31. Tanae Grero had two wickets for the Highlanders. “We were in a really strong position,” Fowlie said. “Without being arrogant, we had the best batting line up and would have been confident chasing any total down.” Fowlie said she knew back in September that the group they had was something special and thought they could go pretty far in the tournament. Among the team were Riddell’s Tess Arthur and Tessa McNair, Ballan’s Sarah Burton and Clover McIIwaine, Bacchus Marsh’s Tanae Grero and Amelia Whiteway, and Malmsbury’s Aaliyah Terbeeke. Fowlie said the spread of contributors

22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 16 January, 2024

across the board was one of the biggest keys to winning the title. “Jayda Wright hit a 50 in every game but one,” Fowlie said. “Bridget Stute, her opening partner was really good as well. “Clover McIlwaine, Tess Arthur, they got a few wickets each. Clover was our top wicket taker with six and we bowled every team out. “It was an all round performance and players were scoring runs throughout the series.” For Fowlie, who has been involved in the Highlanders program for 17 years, it’s the first time she’s been part of a winning team. She said she recalls two other girls teams for the region claiming titles in that time. Fowlie said it’s pretty special to be part of the group that won the first Country Cup. “It’s a little disappointing that we didn’t get to play as part of 16 teams [as in the old format], at the same time it is nice to win. “Our names will be there in the records forever.”

The Melton Thoroughbreds have unveiled their whole Big V squad for this year’s Big V men’s division 2 season. The squad is full of familiar faces with many having been part of last year’s team or the Thoroughbreds Country Basketball League side. Blake and Liam Allison, who both returned to the club last season, are back on board this year. Both play crucial roles on and off the court. The pair were the Thoroughbreds second and third leading scorers last season and led the side in rebounds, while Liam was the side’s leading players in assist. Jackson Jones is another back from last season, finishing second for the side in assists per game. Campbell Jones also returns. Both Jones boys were part of the Thoroughbreds CBL team in the off season. Michael Thompson and Aaron Gadsden were both also big players for the Thoroughbreds team last season, despite missing games with injury. Tonga Matapule otutaha is a new signing for the Thoroughbreds. Matapule otutaha played basketball for Melton previously and has represented Victoria Country at the national championships previously and was part of the Thoroughbreds winning CBL side in the 2022-23 season. Milan Savic is another familiar name to Thoroughbreds fans who is joining the side. Savic was part of the Thoroughbreds’ CBL side last season. Aleks Milivojevic brings state championship experience having played with the Hume City Broncos, while Josh Miller is back for another season. Jimmy Mullins returns to the side and also brings plenty of experience.

Jackson Jones (Jacob Pattison) 326150_01

SPORT Cricketing action heats up again Despite some rain around, there was plenty of cricket action in Melbourne’s north-west on Saturday. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic caught some of the action.

Brandon Misfud. 383086_04

Ishan Perera. 383093_04

Amitoj Kang. 383093_02

Taylors Lakes. 383089_09

Samuel Hope. 383089_01

Muhammad Kapasi. 383085_06

Joshua Hahnel. 383085_05 Tuesday, 16 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

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