Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 30th January 2024 by Star Weekly

Established in 1981 as the

proudly serving Melton and Moorabool

30 JANUARY, 2024

OAM was a ‘surprise’ By Liam McNally Ballan’s Carly-Anne Myers has almost a quarter-century’s worth of experience in the not-for-profit sector, and on January 26, she was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to community health, and to people with disability. Beginning in a volunteer role for Short Statured People of Australia (SSPA), Ms Myers has gone on to work and volunteer in senior positions for Arts Access Victoria (AAV), Women with Disabilities Victoria (WDV), The Push, Genetic Support Network of Victoria (GSNV), Women’s Health Grampians (WHG) and the Royal Women’s Hospital Women’s Disability Advisory Committee. Along with her highly accomplished career, Ms Myers also has insight into the disability sector through her lived experience as a woman with Achondroplasia, a genetic condition that affects bone growth more commonly known as Dwarfism, however, Ms Myers said she prefers to call it “short stature”. “There are more than 400 different types of Dwarfism, my condition is the most common type,” she said. “My husband also has Achondroplasia, his parents and brother also have Achondroplasia whereas in my family I do not have any family members with the same condition. We have a daughter, Lucinda who is ten years old, she does not have Achondroplasia. “I identify as a proud disabled woman. As a disability activist and advocate, using my lived experience of disability, I am passionate about women with disabilities being recognised as lived experience experts especially when it comes to their healthcare. “I believe it is crucial to centre the voices of women with disabilities and their lived experiences. This is a fundamental step towards respecting our human rights.” Ms Myers said some of her most meaningful volunteer work is with SSPA - a non-profit organisation that provides support and information for people with conditions of dwarfism, their families and other interested members of the community. “Collaborating with my short statured peers to create new projects and opportunities for our members, advocate on issues that affect us and capacity build our organisation so it is around for another 57 years, as well as reducing the stress of our fundraising commitments, which are, mainly directed to our annual national conventions is a privilege. I get to see and even experience the outcomes of this work,” she said.

Carly-Anne Myers OAM. (Damjan Janevski) 384725_06

Some of Ms Myers other proudest achievements have been co-writing an article for the community development publication New Community about genuinely, responsibly and ethically engaging women with disabilities to share their stories about abuse, publication of the WDV’s We Are Experts in Our Health resources, WHG’s Accessibility for All: Safety and Respect for Women with Disabilities in Ballarat project, advocacy work through grant procurement and providing testimony at the

Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability. She also looks fondly on co-founding the Short Arts Collective, producing a documentary for SSPA’s 50th anniversary, being recognised with the SSPA McHugh-Henderson Award, and an SSPA life-membership. Ms Myers said her newest accolade, the OAM, is also a great honour. “It has been quite a surprise, I hope to use it to promote the work of the Short Statured

People of Australia as well as our incredible women’s health services across Victoria,” she said. “I make the most of these opportunities as I feel strongly about women with disabilities sharing their lived experiences with not just the wider community, but with key people who are in positions of influence on issues that directly affect us as women with disabilities. “I don’t think I will ever stop advocating in this space.”

PREPARED DAILY USING LOCALLY SOURCED FRESH AND SEASONAL PRODUCTS We now delivery anytime during our trading hours visit us on www.frilled.com.au Open Monday to Sunday for pick-up and contactless delivery. Order at our website online or Menulog

Delivery through Uber, DoorDash & MENULOG

Mention this ad for 10% off

Shop 5/11 -17 Station Road Melton South (Next to Ruby’s & Coles) • Ph 8732 9170 | www.frilled.com.au 12631610-AV36-23

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

S L IA C E P S T O H D RE

Australian White Seedless Grapes

$ Australian Chicken Drumsticks

299

Australian Yellow & White Peaches

MULTI-BUY $

2 50

for

or $29 ea

VB, Carlton Draught, Carlton Dry 10x375mL Cans

Specials available Wednesday 31/01/24 until Tuesday 06/02/24

3299

3 day sale

FRI 2ND - SUN 4RD FEBRUARY STARTS THIS FRIDAY!

Australian Whole Beef Eye Fillet

Melton 331-345 High St, 9743 4600

Sunbury

Gisborne

Glengala

Delahey Supa Valu

Cnr Station & O’Shanassy, Cnr Brantome & Robertson, Cnr David Drive & Delahey Village Shopping Centre, 9744 4290 5428 3200 Fitzgerald Rd, 8390 6988 Taylors Rd, 9362 1207

Weekly Specials available Wednesday 31/01/24 until Tuesday 06/02/24 or while stocks last. LWS specials available Friday 02/02/24 until Sunday 04/02/24. While stocks last. Pictures used for illustration purposes only. While stocks last. Retail quantities only. No trade supplied. All prices include GST where applicable. Some products or varieties may not be available at all stores. IGA Liquor supports the responsible service of alcohol. Tobacco and alcohol not sold to under 18’s. We reserve the right to correct printing errors. 12656521-AA05-24

2 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 January, 2024

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SECTION

PRICE FREEZE! Until 27th February 2024

Australian Chicken Breast Skin Off

99 kg

(minimum 1.2kg buy)

Chicken Plain Tenderloins

Melton 331-345 High St, 9743 4600

$ Chicken Kebab Sticks

Sunbury

Gisborne

Glengala

Delahey Supa Valu

Cnr Station & O’Shanassy, Cnr Brantome & Robertson, Cnr David Drive & Delahey Village Shopping Centre, 9744 4290 5428 3200 Fitzgerald Rd, 8390 6988 Taylors Rd, 9362 1207

IGAVI9398_310124

12656532-AA05-24

Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 3

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

12637489-ET06-24

IF YOU’RE HAVING A BUT OR HOPPING ON A WANT TO KEEP YOUR AND COMMUNITY SAFE…

LEARN MORE

4 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 January, 2024

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Nicole humbled by OAM honour By Hannah Hammoud Nicole Oborne’s upbringing was similar to many children of first-generation immigrants in Australia. Her Maltese-born parents made the move to Australia in the 1970s, where they built their lives on the foundations of hard work and respect. Like many others, their ambition was to offer their children the best life possible in a country that promised opportunities. It was their strong work ethic that held them in good stead - a quality that has clearly been inherited by their daughter Nicole. With an extensive resume servicing both the community and the financial sector, Nicole has been honoured for her contributions and awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). Nicole has been volunteering as part of the Mother’s Day Classic Foundation since 2007.

‘‘

To me this isn’t recognition of a personal accomplishment, it’s a sense of community accomplishment

’’

- Nicole Oborne

Nicole Oborne with her dog Indigo. (Damjan Janevski) 234071_01

have over 100 events across Australia on Mother’s Day, but to actually have one in my hometown is something special. Just getting to see the local community put their arms around it has been fantastic and I think it’s something that will be long standing for the community.” Nicole’s financial expertise has been employed across a number of roles, including as a partner at PwC Australia, as a member of the association of Superannuation Funds of Australia and as the Chairperson for

‘Spate’ of car break-ins in Weir Views region Melton Police have been made aware of a possible spate of theft from motor vehicles in the Weir Views area. It has been suggested that during evenings and early mornings there is a number of unknown persons walking around the streets and trying car door handles. Police have very few reports of these incidents as it has not been reported to police, but CCTV footage is being shared of the alleged offending on social media. In particular the streets bounded by Exford Road, Waterway, Oldbridge and Tamboritha boulevards. Police are urging victims of crime to report

it to police and not share on social media platforms as restricts police from identifying crime trends and does not provide the intelligence that assists police in performing patrols to reduce these crimes in your neighbourhood. If your vehicle has been broken into, regardless of anything being stolen, or if you are not a victim but have CCTV footage investigators from the Melton volume crime unit would like to hear from you. Details: NHP-MELTON-MGR@police.vic.gov. au (Melton Volume Crime Unit) or 1800 333 000 (Crime Stoppers)

Retirement Savings Centre of Excellence CPA Australia, among many others. Nicole said that for her, it is a combination of all her roles from the Mother’s Day Classic, to the CPA and PwC that have come together to enable her to have the impact that she has today. “I’m really humbled by the fact that someone has seen the impact I’ve had, and it is something that I don’t necessarily set out to achieve, I just consider it to be the interactions I have on a daily basis,” she said.

“I consider myself to be a normal resident of the western suburbs. I’ve lived there all my life, I choose to live there and I’m very proud of how the west has evolved. I was educated there, I grew up there, I drive over the Westgate everyday to come into work in the City and I have a sense of pride going home back over the Westgate and knowing I’m surrounded by a community that cares. “To me this isn’t recognition of a personal accomplishment, it’s a sense of community accomplishment.”

SPECIALISTS IN ALL PERSONAL INJURY CLAIMS • Work Cover • TAC – Motor Vehicle Accidents • Slipping & Tripping Claims • Asbestos Claims • Sexual Assault Claims Nicholas Lyons Accredited Specialist in Personal Injury Law Voted as one of the best lawyers and law firms in workcover and TAC claims in Victoria in 2018 - 2023 by Doyles Guide to the best lawyers in Australia.

33 Bakery Square, Melton • Phone: 5332 1584 (Ask about No Win No Fee)

12660750-MP05-24

The Mother’s Day Classic raises vital funds for breast cancer and ovarian cancer research and has become a community-driven tradition for thousands of Australian families who want to show their support. As an accountant by trade, Nicole volunteers as a board member on the foundation, bringing with her governance and finance skills to ensure the funds raised are secure and channelled into the right places. “But I also have quite a big passion for the purpose,” she said. “I lost my aunt when I was 12 years old to breast cancer. I’ve always had a desire to contribute in any way possible, and I am able to do that as a director on the board, but have also fundraised personally over $100,000 for breast cancer research.” Nicole said for her, the classic brings with it a sense of purpose to mark the occasion. “Seeing the way people interact with each other, and survivors crossing the finish line with their family and friends is so special,” she said. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation had to pivot its events to be community focused, rather than hosting the one large run in Melbourne city. “I took it upon myself to host a community event in Caroline Springs, which has been going for three years now. Last year we were able to fundraise $37,000. “Both the community events and the big event have their own purpose. We

Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 5

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NO stamp duty NO council rates NO hidden costs

Artist impression

Lot 24, Edwin | $640,128*

1.5

Make 2024 your best year yet at Lifestyle Woodlea

Our Display Alley is now open! Come and visit us 9am–5pm Monday to Saturday Enter via Main Gates on Jubilee Road, Aintree

1300 50 55 60 | lifestylewoodlea.com.au * Prices are subject to change without notice. 12658607-KG03-24

6 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 January, 2024

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Briefs

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Cannabis seized

PHONE \ 03 8318 5777 LOCATION \ Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 DISTRIBUTION \ 1300 656 678 distribution@fermax.com.au

ADVERTISING GENERAL SALES INQUIRIES westads@starweekly.com.au CLASSIFIEDS \ 1300 666 808 EMAIL \ sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

GENERAL REAL ESTATE INQUIRIES reads@starweekly.com.au

A labrador patiently awaiting its preventative vaccines. (Provided) EDITORIAL GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES westeditorial@starweekly.com.au COMMUNITY CALENDAR ENTRIES communitycalendar@starweekly.com.au

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

NEWS

Pet vaccination clinics RSPCA Victoria is excited to offer more low-cost pet vaccination days to local pet owners in Melton on February 14. The clinic is run by an RSPCA Victoria vet, and is aimed at making veterinary care more accessible for people and their pets. It will take place at the 3rd Melton Scout Group at the corner of Smith and Henry Streets, Melton. For $59, a dog or cat will receive their preventative vaccines and be checked by an RSPCA veterinarian to ensure they are fit for their vaccinations. Pet owners can also receive professional advice on how to keep them healthy now and into the future. RSPCA Victoria Head of Prevention Rebecca Cook said RSPCA is looking forward to visiting the Melton community.

“By the end of January, we will have held 46 low-cost vaccination events across Melbourne and saved each pet owner at least $50 on average per pet,” she said. “We want to help people care for their pets by increasing their access to veterinary and preventative care, which supports lifelong bonds among families with their cats and dogs.” Appointments at each clinic must be booked online in advance with limited places available. Those with more than one pet must book a separate appointment for each animal. RSPCA said due to nation-wide shortages of the F3 vaccine, the team are currently unable to vaccinate cats, however, can still do basic health checks. Details: rspcavic.org/vaccinationclinics/

Police seized 1934 cannabis plants, mostly from Taylors Hill, and charged one person following the execution of four search warrants over two days in Brimbank and Melton. Officers raided two properties in Kings Park on January 23 where 192 cannabis plants were seized. A 27-year-old Preston woman was arrested. She was released pending further inquiries. Later in the day, a man and woman presented themselves to a police station and were placed under arrest. The 54-year-old Kings Park man was charged with cultivate a narcotic plant, possess a drug of dependence, and theft and was bailed to appear at a later date. The 39-year-old Kings Park woman was released pending further inquiries. Officers then executed search warrants at properties in Caroline Springs and Taylors Hill on January 24. Police located 30 cannabis plants at Caroline Springs, and 1712 at the Taylors Hill address. The investigation remains ongoing.

Motorcycle robbery A Melton business has taken to Facebook to appeal for assistance after it was robbed on January 28. The business said that along with “heartbreaking” damage to the store, four motorcycles were stolen including a 2024 Kawasaki KX450f 50th anniversary model. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

12649520-JC06-24

Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 7

12664872-FC05-24

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 January, 2024

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Emma powers on as top citizen By Liam McNally Citizen of the year is one of the highest honours Moorabool council can bestow to publicly acknowledge local heroes, whose dedication and contributions may otherwise go unnoticed - for 2024 that accolade has gone to Emma Muir. Ms Muir has united the community to form the Moorabool and Central Highlands Power Alliance, now known as the Regional Victoria Power Alliance, and is the founding and current chairperson. For the last 3.5 years she has, through this group, been advocating for the shire and community members, voicing opposition to the high voltage transmission project known as the Western Renewables Link (WRL). This work has involved organising rallies in Melbourne and Ballarat, holding fundraising and community meetings, and meeting with politicians and council on numerous occasions. Ms Muir is also the treasurer of the Pentland Hills Landcare Group and is a member of the Grow West implementation committee. Her past involvements include Little Athletics, Myrniong Primary School, Bacchus Marsh and Ballan football netball clubs.. Ms Muir said the award is really an acknowledgement of the wonderful community groups that she is lucky enough to have been involved with “It makes me proud to see them highlighted in our community and I’d like to acknowledge all the people that are involved in these groups as the hard work that they do has contributed to this award,” she said. “I come from a volunteering family, I think my first induction or mentorship was my grandmother. She spent her entire time driving to Ballarat to do Red Cross, SES, all

Moorabool Citizen of the Year Emma Muir with Moorabool mayor Ally Munari. (Provided) sorts of things. So I did understand that was her work, that was what she did, she didn’t work for pay but she worked by volunteering. “Most importantly I’d like to thank my tireless family and friends who’ve had to suffer countless tree planting days, helping organise helicopters… rescue barbeques, participate in tractor rallies, and even go to protests on the steps of parliament.

“I believe I’m really lucky to live in the Moorabool shire and be a part of such a wonderful community.

“We live in a wonderful part of regional Victoria and I hope that our community groups continue to thrive and that we can all appreciate the work that often goes unnoticed.” Moorabool mayor Ally Munari

congratulated Ms Muir for her service to Moorabool. “Emma has shown resilience in the face of adversity, considers others needs above her own, advocates for change, has united the community in a common cause, and taken action where others may only think about it,” she said

Have Your Say Draft Melton Employment and Industrial Land Strategy

Young Citizen of the Year Ophelia Fernando and Moorabool mayor Ally Munari. (Provided)

Young citizen shines As a part of its Australia Day celebrations, Moorabool council welcomed 37 new citizens and announced the winners of the annual Australia Day Awards at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall. Moorabool residents were recognised for outstanding contributions to the community in four categories, young citizen of the year, community event of the year, mayor award and citizen of the year. Young citizen was awarded to Ophelia Fernando. Currently a year 12 student at St Francis Catholic College, Ms Fernando was nominated for her tireless efforts in the service of community through St John Ambulance; her commitment to social justice within her school; and her contributions to youth development within Moorabool. Ms Fernando gave thanks to council and the community for the recognition. “Creating meaningful friendships was one of the main reasons for me becoming obsessed with volunteering,” she said. “Though, my main reason was to construct a skillset applicable to the medical field, allowing me to aid those enduring physical, emotional and psychological pain, therefore fuelling me

with pride knowing I am relieving them of discomfort. “Job opportunities are a product of volunteering, integrity and interpersonal skills are a product of volunteering, strong, developed and connected communities like ours are a product of volunteering - become a volunteer as a youth or an adult member. My name is Ophelia Fernando, I am a volunteer, and a proud one.” The community event of the year was presented to Moorafun’s Dotty Hazel for the Bacchus Marsh EasterFest. The much-loved community event is run by volunteers provides the community much joy while raising funds for the Bacchus Marsh Hospital. The mayor award went to David Hookey, the 32-year Moorabool resident has been a CFA member for a half-century, as well as a member of Ballan Rotary for 21 years, the Ballan Mechanics Institute for five years, is a part of the Ballan Cemetery Trust. As a committee member of the Moorabool Wind Farm, he has been a tireless worker in the eradication of the European Wasp along the Werribee River. The citizen of the year award went to Emma Muir for her advocacy work with the Moorabool Central Highlands Power Alliance.

Melton Council’s draft Employment and Industrial Land Strategy is out for comment The draft Melton Employment and Industrial Land Strategy sets a strategic vision, directions and a framework to guide the long-term use and development of industrial and commercial land in the City of Melton. This is essential for supporting Melton’s ongoing population growth, fostering local employment and driving economic development. Council invites feedback on the draft Strategy until Thursday 29 February, 2024.

Scan the code to find out more or you can call the the City Strategy Team on 9747 7200 or visit us at the Civic Centre, 232 High Street Melton

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all

12665767-SM05-24

Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 9

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

30 January 2024

Mayor’s message Cr Kathy Majdlik

STAY INFORMED

Our city is blessed with a generous supply of land that can be used to create local jobs and boost economic growth for our residents.

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

To make the most of that commercial and industrial land and help meet the future demands of the city we call home, Council has drafted a long-term strategic vision to use and develop the land. Key initiatives from the Melton Employment and Industrial Land Strategy include identifying an economic corridor along the Western Freeway that will support existing and future industrial and employment precincts and activity centres. There is also a municipality-wide framework of employment land use and precinct plans that will guide the future use of employment land. We want your input on the strategy. This is an opportunity for investors, businesses and residents to have a say on a plan designed to drive employment and economic growth that can keep pace with our rapidly growing community.

Help to plan your road trips As Australia’s fastest growing municipality, Melton City Council needs to deliver new roads and upgrades to reduce congestion and boost safety for all road users.

We have a map that shows you where you may experience delays due to planned works or bad weather. You can also see closed or recently reopened roads on the map.

This requires the partial or temporary closure of roads. Please note, every effort is made to reduce the impacts these works have on our community.

Plan your travel around our city at melton.vic.gov.au/roadworks

Lakeside alive is back Grab your family and friends and enjoy roving performers, great live music and delicious food at Lake Caroline. Lakeside Alive returns, weather permitting, on 10 February from 12pm to 8.30pm and is the perfect way to spend a Saturday. Other highlights include a special Puppy Pit Stop for your pooch, free arts and crafts activities and face painting for the kids, and an African Drumming Space.

To have your say visit conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/ MEILS

To find out more, visit melton.vic.gov.au/lakesidealive

Lakeside Alive is one of our community’s most popular festivals and it’s back on Saturday 10 February. Grab your family and friends and enjoy this free, fun-filled day around Lake Caroline.

Watts Ward with Cr Lara Carli

It was fantastic to see nearly 1,200 residents from our amazing community sworn in as new Australians on Thursday 25 January and Friday 26 January at three citizenship ceremonies across the municipality during the Australia Day celebrations. You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at Kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.

Firstly, I’d like to wish everyone a very happy New Year. There’s lots going on in Watts Ward now, not least of which is the duplication of Hume Drive between Gourlay Road and Calder Park Drive. This much-needed project will increase the existing two lanes to four lanes and add a new road median that will improve traffic flow and enhance safety. The project includes works to widen and realign the road, construction of shared paths and footpath links, installation of new public lighting, and new landscaping.

Naturally, works of this scale will have an impact on pedestrian access, speed limits and traffic in the area, so I encourage everyone who travels along Hume Drive to visit conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/ humedrive for full updates, so you can plan your journey in advance. Lake Caroline will come to life on Saturday 10 February as we once again bring you Lakeside Alive. This family-friendly, fun-filled day features something for everyone; from a Puppy Pit Stop, featuring Puppy Portrait caricature artist, Anthony Pascoe, to an exciting African Drumming Space.

Atherstone Traffic School Kids in the City of Melton have the green light to use Atherstone Traffic School any day of the week – and it’s free. The traffic school is now a public park, so grab your helmet and bike or scooter and give it a go. Children are never too young to learn road safety skills that can reduce the risk of serious injury. The park has intersections and signs that mimic real traffic experiences and is a fun place for children to develop road awareness and gain confidence on bicycles and scooters. The traffic school is at 266 Bridge Road, Strathtulloh.

Our Kiddie Korner will keep little ones happy with face painting, craft activities, and giant bubbles; while roving performers and food trucks are perfect for the grown-ups. There will be a car show and fireworks (weather permitting) and a mainstage featuring great live music. Visit melton.vic.gov.au/lakesidealive for all event day details. Feel free to contact me about Watts Ward or Council related issues on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au or visit my Facebook page at: facebook. com/Cr.LaraCarli

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

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, 30 January, 2024

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

12659488-RR05-24

Mayor Cr Kathy Majdlik

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Dedicated officer recognised A Melton police officer who has been in charge of the Melton Crime Investigation Unit since 2011 has been awarded an Australian Police Medal. Spanning a 41-year career with Victoria Police, Detective Senior Sergeant Barry Jenks’ roles have included uniform, criminal investigation unit (CIU), and international deployment. During 2004 and 2005, Detective Senior Sergeant Jenks was seconded to the Australian Federal Police (AFP) international deployment group – Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands.

He led AFP Operations, managing large scale rioting in Honiara that lasted for six days and was commended for his work. Since 2010, Detective Senior Sergeant Jenks has worked as a guide for No Roads Expeditions, leading over 20 treks across the Kokoda Track. A number of the participants are emergency services and defence force personnel and are integral in improving the mental health and wellbeing of participants. In 2006 he became a detective senior sergeant at detective training school where he undertook a number of strategic projects and was instrumental in training new detectives.

In 2011, Detective Senior Sergeant Jenks returned to Melton, joining the CIU. Victoria Police said he is a leader in reducing the incidents of networked youth and youth gang offending in the Melton and it has been achieved through strong community stakeholder engagement to reduce youth gang crime, through information sharing with partners where these crimes frequently occur. Detective Senior Sergeant Jenks said he’s incredibly proud and honoured to receive the Australian Police Medal and especially pleased it occurred while working at Melton. “Melton has been such a large part of my

policing career. I was first stationed here in 1983 and despite heading off to other opportunities, I always returned,” he said. “I thoroughly enjoy working with this community and most importantly I’ve been lucky to work with wonderful people throughout my career, none more so than the current team at Melton. In so many ways those people are the reason I have received this award and I’m very grateful.” Victoria Police chief commissioner Shane Patton congratulated Detective Senior Sergeant Jenks and five other police officers recognised with awards on January 26.

More school bus services

James, Tommy, Finn and Logan. (Jacob Pattison) 382452_02

Double duos are ready to learn Two sets of twins, who are also best friends, are preparing to take on their first foray into education together at Eynesbury Primary School. When the four five-year-olds were just a few months old, mums Lauren and Nicola met by chance on Halloween. The kids have been inseparable ever since. Nicola said her pair, Logan and James, are apparently a little louder and more prone to risk-taking than Lauren’s, Tommy and Finn, until they all get together.

“The four boys together are loud, seem very similar and they all like similar things,” she said. “The boys are very close and the seem to feel more secure knowing that they all have each other. “They love to be around each other. They argue and fight like they are brothers.” Lauren said the siblings will each be separated for their first classes, but each gets a best mate to start with instead. “I’m nervous and excited,” she said.

“This is the first time they will be separated, they are nervous but relieved that they may not be starting school [classes] l with their brother but they get to start with their best friend. “It will be nice for them to have some independence from each other, to learn and grow and explore and develop their own identity. It will also be nice for them to have a break from each other.” Eynesbury Primary School opened in 2021, and begins term one this week.

The state government is rolling out new bus services across Melbourne’s outer suburbs for the school year to support the surging number of students in growth corridors. Public and Active Transport Minister Gabrielle Williams announced the $25 million investment from the Victorian Budget to introduce, modify and extend school bus services across the state on January 24. “Through Victoria’s Bus Plan we’re delivering a modern bus network that encourages more people to take the bus,” she said. In Melbourne’s west, students at Springside West Secondary College will benefit from an extra Aintree – Springside West SC service, while the new Yarrabing Secondary College will receive a return service for students living in Thornhill Park and Rockbank. Six new dedicated services will support the new Bemin Secondary College in Truganina, linking students based in Williams Landing, Truganina and Hoppers Crossing. The start of Term 1 also sees a new morning and afternoon service introduced for students from South Werribee and Wyndham Vale attending Walcom Ngarrwa Secondary College in Werribee – another new school opening its doors in 2024. The extra services are part of a wider update of Wyndham’s school bus network to ensure resources reach areas where demand is high and to reduce duplication. The extra services will be introduced from the first day of Term one on Tuesday, January 30.

The west is still the cheapest place to rent despite record increases Melbourne’s west is the cheapest rental market in any Australian city despite jumping 13.1 per cent in the last year, according to a new report from CoreLogic. Median rent in the west Melbourne statistical area, which encapsulates the area from Footscray out to Little River and Bacchus Marsh, has reached an all-time-high of $491 per week. Despite this, the area is the cheapest capital city area to rent in, and the eighth cheapest area in the country. Most of the areas cheaper than the west were in remote west of Queensland, Victoria and NSW and in the north of South Australia.

CoreLogic Research Australia head Eliza Owen said the price jump in the west is due to a cascade effect with people being priced out of more expensive areas due to the wider rental crisis, as well as the area receiving a high portion of overseas migration to Australia. “It is very concerning to see our cheapest rental markets see such high increases… a lot of the areas that were once thought of as affordable, have now lost that affordability status,” she said. “For a lot of people, after the private rental market, that’s it. They start facing housing insecurity, they start facing homelessness.

“And part of that is because in the background of this rental market upswing, we’ve seen a gradual decline in investment in social housing over decades.” The jump reflects nationwide rental market pressure, with 72 out of 88 statistical areas in the current at record-high median prices. The national median rent rose 8.3 per cent, compared to an average annual increase of two per cent in the 2010s. Ms Owen said she expects the rate of increase to slow down with some bumps in supply but not to stop. “We basically need more dwelling supply, particularly in social and affordable housing,

but the supply of dwellings takes time,” she said. “I think you’ll get the demand side response sooner than the completion of adequate dwellings, and that’s going to look like more share-housing, people moving into cheaper areas… or it could mean more people in insecure housing, crashing on couches, experiencing homelessness. “Renters tend to be on lower incomes. So for the lower income households, this is going to be a really testing time, and it’s a stressful time.” Liam McNally

Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

12655740-KG05-24

12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 January, 2024

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Kirrip pays tribute to ancestors By Liam McNally The day the First Fleet arrived at Botany Bay, Australia, January 26, 1788, is recognised as a public holiday in Australia, but for many it is a day of mourning that marks the beginning of the end of Aboriginal sovereignty, which had existed for at least 65,000 years prior. To recognise this, Kirrip Aboriginal Corporation held a Survival Day breakfast, billed as a place to go to “be connected to mob… while we mourn and remember our ancestors who can only be here in spirit”. About 70 people gathered including Aboriginal and general community members and Melton MP Steve McGhie. The day included a barbeque, smoking ceremony, an Aboriginal flag raising a speech from Kirrip deputy chair Lucy Webster. Kirrip chief executive Peter Webster said it was an amazing turnout, however, he also described a year of setbacks for his community,

with the referendum result and threats he said the “no” vote resulted in including funding cuts and an end to Treaty negotiations, as well as a lack of communication with local government. “It’s really disappointing to see some of the feelings of people out there [in Australia] at the moment,” he said. “At the moment everyone’s wondering around [Kirrip] having a talk and supporting each other because it is a difficult day. “It’s a significant date that needs to be changed because it’s not true reconciliation until we can get everyone in Australia to celebrate Australia at the same time, taking into account everyone’s feelings, not just a few.” About 40 per cent of local councils have stopped holding citizenship ceremonies on January 26 after it stopped being a requirement last year. Mr Webster expressed frustration at Melton

and Moorabool going ahead with their events. “I think it’s disappointing that councils aren’t more supportive of all their community,” he said. “At the moment when you don’t at least have a conversation or acknowledge that it’s not recognised as a day for all Australians then you’re only meeting a portion of your community. “We have the same council, doing the same things, and nothing’s changed.” Despite this, Mr Webster said Victoria’s fastest growing aboriginal population isn’t going anywhere. “We’re going to keep talking and wanting a safe place where we can celebrate who we are,” he said. “We are the oldest surviving culture in the world, and everybody should be proud of that. “Something has to change, and it’s got to change from grass roots… it should be the voice of all community.”

Kirrip chief executive and proud Kamilaroi man Peter Webster.

Lake Caroline comes alive

Gareth Wilson with his son Jack (12) and Trevor Oliver. (Damjan Janevski) 383568_03

Get your fix of wings and wheels Bacchus Marsh Wings, Wheels and Coffee will be soaring and roaring back into the Bacchus Marsh Airfield on Sunday February 4. Run by the Bacchus Marsh Holden Car Club, the coffee car and air show is back for its sixth year, with a large array of cars, motorbikes and aeroplanes. From 9am-4pm the event is open to all car and aviation enthusiasts. Whether you are all about the classic cars, the JDM machines, the hot rods, super cars and everything else in between, make sure you get out to Bacchus Marsh airfield to check

out the show and show off your ride. Coffee vans and food trucks will also be onsite to help fuel the day of the day of sky and land motorised action. Last year the event raised $25,000 for local community organisations and in 2024 proceeds from the $15 per vehicle entry fee will be donated to groups including the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday appeal, Blue Light Disco events and pony, basketball and BMX clubs. Car club member and event organiser Trevor Oliver said they’re hoping to raise the

bar this year and are expecting about 1500 attendees. “We are excited, we have an RAAF 100 Squadron WW2 Mustang, the Sharks Aerobatic Team from South Australia, T28 Trojan and Harvard War aeroplanes, the HELITEC Water Bomber will do a maintenance run and aerobatic displays by some of the best pilots in Australia,” he said. The Bacchus Marsh Airfield is located on Cummings Road, Parwan. Details: https://ow.ly/5Qox50Qv8q4

Caroline Springs will be bursting with energy when Lakeside Alive returns bigger and better than ever. Lake Caroline will come alive on Saturday, February 10 from noon to 8.30pm. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said Lakeside Alive is the perfect way for the family to spend a Saturday afternoon. “There’s something for everybody at Lakeside Alive, with activities for kids, adults and the whole family including your fur babies,” she said. “The area around Lake Caroline will be jam-packed with so many things to see and dovand it is a great way to make some amazing memories with your family.’’ The main stage will feature a wide variety of live music on and two local dance schools will be performing at the amphitheatre throughout the day. The kiddie corner will provide free face painting, arts and craft activities, a play space and the chance to watch Becky Bubble blow giant bubbles. There will be roving buskers and performers all around the lake and the chance to drum up a storm at the African drumming space. For fur babies there is a special puppy pit stop that will treat them like stars while you grab a puppy portrait from a caricature artist. Local businesses surrounding Lake Caroline are supplying delicious, tasty treats, outdoor dining opportunities and food trucks.

Lessons from a blooming flower movement at BaccChat By Liam McNally Moorabool flower farmers and tech-entrepreneurs Nikki Davey and Sam Baff will be sharing the challenges and successes of their flower-powered online platform Grown Not Flown at an upcoming BaccChat event. Grown Not Flown is an online platform and app connecting flower farmers and consumers that emphasises supporting the slow flower movement aimed at reducing flower miles, celebrating seasonal locally grown flowers, and raising awareness around the environmental impacts of imported flowers. Co-founder and chief executive Ms Davey

said Grown Not Flown has blossomed from a passion project during COVID. “As relatively new flower farmers we found that there were no accessible technologies dedicated to assisting flower farmers or small-scale producers that would enable them to easily connect with consumers, manage their farming operations or support new growers,” she said. “Essentially, it’s a farmers market in your pocket - we provide seasonal produce at your fingertips.” “Currently, within Australia, around 50 per cent of flowers sold are imported. There are so many amazing micro and small-scale growers, and with the Grown Not Flown

platform it makes it easy to search, source and connect with your local growers.” In under three years the platform has created a directory of 1200 farms with users from 37 countries and earnt Ms Davey the 2023 National AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award. Ms Davey said the growth has been incredible. “When we first started Grown Not Flown, we hoped that it would work, but we had no idea it would become the global platform that it is today…we feel really privileged that we get to do what we do everyday and shine a spotlight on all the incredible benefits of supporting small-scale producers and locally

grown flowers,” she said. She said she’s excited for the upcoming talk and wats to get the message out that “not all flowers are grown equal”. “There are so many incredible reasons to support local - the majority of local flower farmers are also small businesses who use regenerative and sustainable practices to grow seasonally and produce some of the highest quality flowers within the industry,” she said. “In addition to this, you’re supporting local farmers, communities, economies and the environment.” The free event be held February 3, 10-11am at the Lerderderg library.

Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

H A R N E S S

T H E

H A P P I N E S S

SAT

3 FEB M E LT O N E N T E R TA I N M E N T PA R K

FREE ENTER TAINMENT FOOD TRUCKS KIDS ACTIVITIES OUTDOOR MARKET LIVE MUSIC GOLD COIN ENTRY G R O U P

DOUBLE HEADER S E N Tr a c k

A .G HUNTE R CUP YA B B Y D A M FA R M S

GRE AT SOUTHE RN S TA R

VISIT THE TROTS.COM. AU 12664956-KG04-24

14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 January, 2024

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

How will the stage 3 tax cuts work?

SMCV chief executive Monica Majak and member Natalia Achol Kiir. (Jacob Pattison) 383009_03

Rising demand for food By Liam McNally The Sudanese Mothers Coalition in Victoria (SMCV) has donated more than 40,000 food items in the past 13 years to people in Melton and Brimbank, and it’s seeking community volunteers to expand its reach. SMCV is a non-for-profit agency established in 2009 that works with South Sudanese Communities, particularly families, and young people at risk of disengagement from education, employment and other essential services. The SMCV’s mission is to support women and young people to improve their lives through confidence and resilience building,

mental health and a sense of belonging to Australian society. Among SMCV’s support work is its food donation program, which works with the state government, South Sudanese Communities, local grocery stores, and African United Farms to secure food delivery and donations to vulnerable young people and parents from Sudanese and South Sudanese community backgrounds. SMCV chief executive Monica Majak said the food program is hoping to expand, but needs more volunteers and resources to do so. “The food donation has increased due to rising living costs. There is a need to help young people and parents in need and be able to have

healthy food and good nutrition,” she said. “The SMCV has a developed plan for cooking, collecting, transporting, and distributing food items to the households. However, the SMCV do not have proper logistics, including storage facilities, transportation methods, and the frequency of pickups due to lack of resources,” she said. “We seek to recruit volunteers to assist with various tasks, including collecting, sorting, and distributing food. Volunteers are essential for the success of a food donation program.” The SMCV is also hoping to raise funds for a minibus, and is seeking computer donations. Details: 0431 023 688 or monmajak@gmail. com

The federal government has flipped on its promise to keep stage three tax cuts, however the overhauled scheme will result in lower taxes for the vast majority of Melton and Moorabool residents. Anyone earning less than $146,000 per year is set to benefit more from the new tax scheme compared to the original version of the stage three cuts. According to Profile I.D, just 2.3 per cent of Melton residents and 3.4 per cent of Moorabool residents earn more than $156,000 per year. The new version of stage three cuts will reduce the 19 per cent tax rate to 16 per cent for incomes between $18,200 and $45,000, reduce the 32.5 per cent tax rate to 30 per cent for incomes between $45,000 and the new $135,000 threshold, increase the threshold at which the 37 per cent tax rate applies from $120,000 to $135,000 and increase the threshold at which the 45 per cent tax rate applies from $180,000 to $190,000. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the changes at a National Press Club Address on January 25. “The federal government is being very upfront with the Australian people that when economic circumstances have changed, it is a responsible thing to do to change our policy. And we are changing our policy for the right reasons,” he said.

Far left: Ivy, 9, finds it easier on the easel. Left: Elizabeth, 10, showing off her nature-inspired art. Above: Bonnie, 8, painting the finishing touches, and Ruben, 6, in a smock and ready to rock.

Kids get creative

Above: Avril, 8, polishing off a masterpiece, and Samuel, 5, experimenting with creativity. Far right: Pearl, 10, honing her artistic process. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 385251

Children finished their school holidays on a bright note at the Eynesbury Discovery Centre Arts for Kids Workshop on January 25. Guided by a professional artist, young creatives created their very own canvas to take home and contributed to a community canvas to display in the centre for all of Eynesbury to see. Photographer Damjan Janevski visited to capture the creative process. Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Flags fly for new Aussies By Liam McNally On January 26, Melton council welcomed 400 new Australian citizens at a special event at Cobblebank Stadium. The day included activities for the whole family including music, a sausage sizzle, face painting and the chance to meet dingoes and reptiles, and enjoy some face painting. Muam Zo, originally from Myanmar, said he was excited to become one of Melton’s newest Australian citizens and wants to become more involved in the community. “I once couldn’t imagine it, but now I’ve got the opportunity, it’s a privilege,” he said. “Now I’m Australian, I have to settle my mind, my heart and everything in Australia and live like an Australian and contribute as much as I can to the nation.” Naha Patil and her son also became new Australians on Friday. Ms Patil was born in India, and her son in New Zealand. After 8 and a half years in Australia the whole family are now citizens of Australia.

“The day was so good,” she said. “Thanks to the mayor and council for putting in lots of effort in arranging this function, it’s very awesome. “[Becoming a citizen] feels very good, it’s not a privilege, it’s earned.” Ms Patil’s son also said it feels nice to become a citizen, and the day was a lot of fun. Claudine Morales, originally from New Zealand, became a citizen after 17 years living in Australia, and said she was excited about getting to vote. “It’s been a long way, but it finally came… it feels good,” she said. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the citizenship ceremony is a highlight for her on council’s calendar. “Australia Day is a time to celebrate the people who make the country we are blessed to call home so special,” she said. “This is a great opportunity for everyone to come together and enjoy the community spirit that makes this city such a wonderful place to live.’’

Muam Zo with his family Nuniyan Lily Zo, Vanrolen and Rokimthang. (Liam McNally)

Australia Day marked in Melton and Moorabool With citizenship ceremonies, activity days and mourning events there was broad range of events happening on January 26, reflecting Melton and Moorabool’s diverse community. Reporter Liam McNally got some snaps from the different activities on the day.

New citizen Claudine Morales with husband Antonio and son Marcus.

Moorabool council’s Australia Day award’s ceremony.

New citizens Paule and Chinette Aguilor with their kids.

Sisto, Kylie, Lovetta and Malakai Tafuni and Melton’s citizenship ceremony.

16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 January, 2024

Uncle Andrew McDermott with grandkids Alyra, Reid and Willow at Kirrip’s Survival Day Breakfast.

LJ Singh with Tom, Zaara and Aria.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

25 years ago

20 years ago

15 years ago

February 1, 1984

January 27, 1999

January 27, 2004

January 27, 2009

Beth McDonald has been selected as Melton’s Citizen of the Year. A life-long resident of Melton, Ms McDonald has been involved with the town’s tennis guides, Red Cross and basketball groups over the last 20 years.

Melton Pistol Club plans to relocate to Macpherson Park following Melton council’s decision to rezone the land it uses.

The Melton Bloods Football Club is concerned the worsening condition of Macpherson Park’s main football oval could mean the team will be unable to play there this season.

The battle over Melton’s moral ground has gone online, with more than 280 people joining a pro-strip club group on social networking site Facebook.

12666030-JB05-24

40 years ago

Order now on aussietoysonline.com.au Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Dream comes true for Jayden A dream has become reality for a Maribyrnong Sports Academy student, Jayden Kim. Jayden, his father and his school’s sports director speak to Gerald Lynch about the opportunity of a lifetime to join the Pittsburgh Pirates in the Major League Baseball.

aseball has always been a part of Jayden’s family. His father David Kim, played in Melbourne from the age of 14 and later moved to Seoul, South Korea, where he played in the Korean Professional League for seven years. Jayden played his early baseball in South Korea for his Little League city team, Ilsan West. Jayden was often picked as the most valuable player and went on to win a record five championships in one year. While it seems unbelievable now that Jayden would’ve ended up playing any other support his father David said that while he would’ve always loved to see Jayden follow in his footsteps and take up baseball, it didn’t always appear likely. “He started off just playing soccer and tennis and golf and all the other sports, and yeah, we just figured, you know, he enjoys soccer more,” he said. “But at around age nine, out of the blue he just said ‘dad can I try baseball?’ Obviously with my career playing baseball, knowing how tough the sport is, I was kind of like, yeah, I don’t know if you really want to do that, but if you want to try it so bad then yeah, go ahead. “He fell in love with it, and I guess the rest is history.”

‘‘

There’s a lot to worry about with the language and a new culture, but I’ve been dreaming about this - Jayden Kim

’’

After spending 20 years as a scout at Minnesota Timms, David picked up a role as a remote scout at the Pittsburgh Pirates at the end of 2022. The Pirates had Jayden on their radar since 2021 and David said the club spoke to him about Jayden more before he started working with them. “They were very professional about the whole process, once I joined the Pirates it was radio silence about Jayden,” he said. “It was to the point where it was frustrating, they wouldn’t allow me to see reports, any meetings on prospects I would have to leave. I get it, but I don’t get it, but I sort of get it,” David chuckled. While it was tough to be left in the dark about his son’s draft prospects, David said the last thing he wanted was to be a ‘helicopter dad’. “I had to know my spot in the organisation, you don’t want to be ‘that guy’, and in the end the only real say I had was basically more of a confirmation on what they already saw… they asked me about his level of interest, his work ethic, it was all pretty easy to see by how he goes about it on the field,” he said. After only moving to Australia two years ago, the plan was for Jayden to finish school and hopefully move to America to play college baseball. The decision was difficult to let Jayden go to the professional game so early on and without him finishing his schooling, but after weighing up the options they decided they couldn’t turn down the opportunity. “I think the decision to go pro, with Jayden having English as a second language, even though he is an Australian citizen, was probably going to put us behind the black ball,” he said. “It’s hard enough for you know, someone fluent in English to go to a big time school, college in the States, let alone someone you know, just getting his feet immersed in English. “So, we felt the pressure of keeping up his grades at a college along with performance on the field, compared to just concentrating on being a baseball player was too much, and he

Jayden in his Pirates gear. (Instagram)

Jayden playing for Maribyrnong Sports Academy. (MSA) Inset: Jayden with teammates in the Australian camp, 2022. (Baseball Victoria)

can always return to school afterwards.” Jayden is saying his final goodbyes before setting off to join the Pirates in early February and said he cannot wait to join his new teammates. “Just really excited, nervous but excited,“ he said. “There’s a lot to worry about with the language and a new culture, but I’ve been dreaming about this. “No family is coming with me, I’ll be living with teammates in a dorm, just can’t wait to get started.” Jayden said there will be no special going away party, he is instead using his final days in Australia to work on his left hand game and make sure he is ready to impress from day one.

18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 January, 2024

Maribyrnong Sports Academy director Mark McAllion said that when Jayden arrived at the school in 2021, what he lacked in English skills, he made up for and more in work ethic and passion. “He was crazily enthusiastic to get over here and get stuck in,” he said. “He even wanted to know if we had a school song, he was intending on writing one at some point. “He was always an extremely polite kid with a great attitude, he made friends and earnt the respect of everyone around him very early on.” Mr McAllion has seen a number of strong athletes come through the academy, including another MLB product last year, but he said

Jayden has one of the highest ceilings he has seen. “His potential is huge, his work ethic will hold him in really good stead, and he’s obviously extremely talented,” he said. “I mean, I’m not a baseball expert, but he’s definitely got a lot of the attributes of an elite athlete, definitely.” The MLB season tees off on March 20, so Jayden will have six weeks to try and push for an early season debut, but settling into life in America is at the top of the priority list. The Pirates started last season well with a 20-9 record, before ending the campaign with a 76-86 record, finishing fourth of five in the national league central division.

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Melton South Community Centre Melton South Community Centre’s term one program of courses is now available and open for enrolments. The program is available for viewing at meltonsouth.org.au, with hard copies available at the centre as well as being delivered to local households. For information and enquiries, call the centre. ■ 9747 8576

Men’s Fella-Ship The free Men’s Fella-Ship social group returns to Melton South Community Centre for 2024, meeting each Wednesday at 1pm. Men of all ages are invited to come along for a cuppa, a chat and the opportunity to make new friends. No bookings required. For more information, call the centre. ■ 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

This week’s Photographer’s Choice picture is of Broadmeadows auctioneer, Martin Evans. (Damjan Janevski) 384484_01

Women’s Support Group

Take weight off naturally

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

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

on the first Sunday each month at Darley Neighbourhood House 2-5pm. ■ https://63ec55b8628d6.site123.me/

exercise class for those 55 and older who are retired or semi-retired who wish to stay mentally and physically active. ■ 0419 563 016

Garden Club 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

Parkinson’s support group

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park

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

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

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

Melton Ladies Probus

Melton Bridge Club

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 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. If you like playing cards this is for you. ■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Caroline Springs Rotary

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

Melton Men’s Group Melton Men’s Group meets every Thursday from 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

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

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 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

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

Rotary Club of Melton 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, 0425 705 150

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

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

Community Band 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

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, 0498 329 290

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

Melton Trauma Teddies 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

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 fabric. They need people to cut, sew, iron and market our bags. The group meets

Sunrise Social Groups GenWest Sunrise Social Groups are currently seeking new members for their Melton, Brimbank and Wyndham programs. The free groups are organised by Genwest and provide a social space for women, gender diverse and nonbinary people, who have a disability, chronic health issues and/ or mental health challenges. ■ https://genwest.org.au/what-we-do/ health-wellbeing-programs/ Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 19

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 170

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.

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

easy

3 6 7 9 2 5 6 7

9 6

2 4 5 7 6 2 3

3 5

7 9

DOWN

Heavenly girdle (6) Ancient Irish language (6) 'Not on your –' (5) Grant (9) Belonging to a thing by its very nature (9) Whinny (5) Concurred (6) Border (4) Give for temporary use (4) Designate (6) Fish (5) Midwestern US city (9) Device used to increase volume (9) Wild dog (5) Sibling (6) Interfere (6)

1 4 10 11 12 13 14 15 19 20 24 25 27 28 29 30

No. 170

Semi-autonomous region of Tanzania (8) Tardy (8) Whenever (7) Better (7) Boy’s name (6) People of the Czech Republic (6) Video storage discs (abbr) (4) Candied citrus peel (7) Waitress who serves drinks (7) Revulsed (8) African deer (8) Network of crossed strips (7) Wrap a baby tightly (7) Takes by theft (6) Body (Lat) (6) Fat (4)

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 16 17 18 19 21 22 23 26

4 5

3 7 4

DECODER

No. 170

6 3 1 5

2 6 7

6 1

8 6

8 2

1 8 5 hard

10 11 12 13

N Y 22

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

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

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

30 words: Very good

S V

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

QUICK QUIZ

1 What is the softest rock mineral?

4 Who is the premier of Western Australia?

C H E

P L I T E A C E A T I N

20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 January, 2024

HEEDS HELPS INANE IRATE LASER LOATH MAXIM NOTED PERIL PROVE RAVEL REAMS REGAL RESET SABRE SASSY SEEDS SIDES SLEWS SNOBS SONES

3 What is the name of Sam Smith’s 2023 studio album?

S P L

ADAGE ADEPT ADORE AGAIN ALONE AORTA ARISE BABES CRANE DIETS DITTO DOTES EATEN EAVES EDGES ERATO ERROR EVADE EXTRA GENUS GROSS

2 Is the Nile river northflowing or south-flowing?

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

No. 170

H E R E

6 2 / ' , ( 5

SPEAR TENET TORSO TRACE TRIOS WADED WELTS

7 LETTERS DENSEST EARBASH LEERIER NEEDING RUMMAGE SOLDIER

6 LETTERS EBBING OBSESS RESALE SENILE

8 LETTERS DISASTER ENTITLES REPAIRED SILVERED

02-02-24

No. 170

airs, also, lours, lousy, oils, rails, rays, rivals, roils, rosily, rosy, sail, sailor, salvo, salvor, sari, saviour, savour, savoury, savoy, silo, slay, slur, soar, soil, sola, solar, soli, soul, sour, sourly, soya, surly, various, VARIOUSLY, virus, visa, visor, visual, yours

T C

Today’s Aim: 20 words: Good

4 LETTERS ACHE ARCS CESS DEBT HATS INTO LAPS LAWS MASS MELT SECT URNS UTES WETS 5 LETTERS ABETS

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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

40 words: Excellent

hard

9-LETTER WORD

medium

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

1 5 4 7

easy

5x5

3 LETTERS ADS ALE ATE BAR CAP CUB DEN DEW EEL EGO ERA EVE EYE IDS IOU MRS NOR ODE PUN ROE SUE TEA TOP TOT

L WI U G Z PM J K C HX

6 2

F D B A S OQ T V R E N Y

8 1

1 3

6 9

1 7 8 3

WORDFIT

5 Is a feather star a type of calligraphy pen, a marine animal or an astrology term? 6 Ljubljana is the capital of which country?

7 Sam Heughan (pictured) is best known for his main role in which drama series? 8 What is an exonym? 9 True or false: nail polish was invented as early as 3000 BC? 10 Which animal is the closest living relative to the koala? ANSWERS: 1. Talc 2. North-flowing 3. Gloria 4. Roger Cook 5. A marine animal 6. Slovenia 7. Outlander 8. An established, non-native name for a geographical place or group 9. True 10. Wombat

medium

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

2 1 8 3 5 6 4 2

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SECTION

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services

General Notices

V Deadline

V Bathroom & Kitchens

Placing your classiﬁed advert is so easy...

J & R Tregambe Constructions

Online: networkclassiﬁeds.com.au (24/7) Phone: 1300 666 808 (Open 8.30-5pm Mon-Fri) Email: sales@networkclassiﬁeds.com.au

House Maintenance & Repairs

V Public Notices and Event

Bathroom Renovations

Builder Reg No VBA DBU-2192

VISA/MASTERCARD/EFTPOS (1.5% credit card processing fee applies. Cheques and money orders can be posted in or hand delivered to our local ofﬁce)

Call Joe 0418 304 970 joetregambe@gmail.com

HIA Member 512290

• Replacement of six (6) existing panel antenna with six (6) new panel antenna (each antenna no longer than 2.8m in height) mounted on a new triangular headframe atop the monopole, • Relocation of three (3) existing Active Antenna Units (AAUs) (each antenna no longer than 1m in height) mounted onto the new headframe, • Installation of ﬁve (5) new AAUs and provisions for four (4) future AAUs (each antenna no longer than 1m in height) on the new headframe and • Installation of associated ancillary equipment including but not limited to the replacement of thirty-nine (39) remote radio units (RRUs) for eighteen (18) RRUs, with provisions for two (2) future RRUs on the new headframe and two (2) GPS antenna to the existing equipment shelter to ensure proper functioning of the facility.

V Carpenters Ask about our discounted ongoing advertising rates and how choosing more newspapers gives your advertising more impact and saves you money...

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

Phone 0401 005 760 12435708-LB03-20

V Air Conditioning

12499953-AV25-21

G6638978

V Electricians

2. Optus and Vodafone regard the proposed works as a low-impact facility under Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the description above.

Domestic, Commercial, Industrial - Home Security a Specialty

AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING REPAIR, SUPPLY AND INSTALLATIONS Evaps from

4. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: CPS Technology & Infrastructure, (02) 9300 1700, submissionsVIC@cpstech.com.au by 5pm on Wednesday 14th February 2024.

Call Scott 0423 745 993 rec 21164

JAD COOLING AND HEATING $2800

12665790-SN06-24

V Fencing & Gates

12656354-HC50-23

• Service and repair to all types of coolers and heaters • Split air conditioning sales & installation • Duct cleaning • Gasﬁtting and installations • CARBON MONOXIDE safety checks to all heaters L144673 Call 0412 681 837 Lic 33818 ARC Rec D19778

V Antennas

ADVERTISE with us and get better results

Same Day TV Antenna Service

V Adult Services

V Pets & Services

Rainbow Club

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE

Free Onsite Quote Pensioner / Senior discount Local Technicians

Open 7 days

V Massage Therapists

FAST FRIENDLY EFFICIENT Phone 7am-8pm | installmyantenna.com.au

0488 816 557

V Bathroom & Kitchens 12420493-CG25-19

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

CALL 1300 666 808

· Plumbing · Tiling · Electrical · Carpentry · Plastering · One stop shop - Kitchen, bathroom, laundries & renovation needs. · Complete service from start to finish, including kitchen 3D design. · Appliance packages available. · Bathroom tapware, accessories & tiles on display in our showroom. Showroom by appointment only Free Quotes & Mobile Ensuite Hire. terms & conditions apply Please note that we specialise in renovations - we do not do repairs or maintenance

www.topedgekitchens.com.au

Find it in the

Real Estate

Specialist in • Lawn mowing • Edging Pruning / Hedge Trimming • Regular Maintenance • Rubbish Removals • Tree Lopping • Gutter Cleaning

V Reblocking/Underpinning

NEW STAFF?

MEMBER OF MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

NICK’S RE-BLOCKING SERVICE

ALL SUBURBS ★ RAISING ★ LEVELLING ★ UNDERPINNING ★ RESTUMPING WITH CONCRETE OR REDGUM STUMPS ★ COUNCIL PERMIT ★ ALL WORK GUARANTEED

Fill your position online www.networkclassiﬁeds.com.au

FREE SMOKE ALARM

PH: 9360 5357 Mobile: 0412 378 193

Find your Local Professionals in our

Registered Building Practitioner

Trades & Services

G6795050AA-dc29Apr 1132314-LB19-14

V Tree Lopping/Surgery

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

Family-owned business looking for Casual HC or HR driver to join our team. • Day shift Monday to Friday. • Proven experience in a similar role will be advantageous. • A valid forklift licence will be advantageous. • Competitive Pay rate. • Can work 24+ hrs per week. • Excellent communication skills. • Ability to effectively follow procedures and instructions.

Contact akila@westsidemeats.com.au or call 0499 209 316

section of Network Classiﬁeds.

NEED

AMAZING GARDEN SERVICES

Reg No 8659

HC /HR TRUCK DRIVER (Bacchus Marsh)

FARM HAND (Bacchus Marsh)

V Positions Vacant

V Garden Services

Call Joe 0498 375 094 - 7 days

Kitchens & Bathroom Renovations

V Positions Vacant

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

Employment

12565959-HC35-22

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

12619650-JB29-23

SAME DAY TV ANTENNA SERVICE

8348 5441

$110/ 30mins

48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 0468 693 833

0499 929 222 0401 013 153

Employment

General Classifieds

section of Network Classifieds.

Andrew for a Free Quote 0421 836 152

Experienced person required for mixed farming operation in Parwan, which is 45 minutes west of Melbourne. Must have livestock experience in cattle & lambs and general farm duties. HR Licence preferred not essential. Contact akila@westsidemeats.com.au or call 0499 209 316

Motoring V Wrecking

FREE CAR REMOVAL Pay up to $500 for most cars Dead or Alive

12321532-HM36-16

Cooling & Heating Services

Gates & Pergolas ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ Lou 0412 339 445 Tony 0431 339 739

12423634-SN31-19

Lou’s Colorbond Fencing

12402755-RA44-18

AU 21094 Lic 42666 jadhc@live.com.au

12652832-AI48-23

0425 804 593 or 0425 876 176

12621309-AP29-23

12642070-ET42-23

• EVAPORATIVE COOLERS • SPLIT SYSTEMS • HOT WATER SYSTEMS • DUCTED HEATING

3. The proposed infrastructure will comply with the ACMA EME regulatory arrangements. An EME Report and further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au site number 3337020.

12623993-ET31-23

• Sheds • New Homes • Factories • CCTV • Fault Repairs • LED Lighting • Renovations • Switch Boards • Stove & Oven Repairs • Down Lights • Power Points • Electrical Vehicle Charger • Security Lighting • Free Quotes • Phone & Data Points & NBN

SWA6566B

Deadline for all classiﬁcations is 1:30pm Monday.

TD CARPENTRY

12666003-SN05-24

We accept payment by:

1. The site at which this works is being undertaken is located at 799 High Street, Melton West VIC 3337. The proposed works include the installation of new 4G and 5G equipment and associated works on the existing 30m monopole. The proposed works comprise of:

12666622-MS05-24

(include your name, address and phone number)

PROPOSAL TO CONDUCT UPGRADE WORKS TO EXISTING 5G MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT EXISTING TELECOMMUNICATIONS SITE AT MELTON WEST

12644678-AI44-23

• Specialised professional team • Personal supervision by Joe • Reach out for a free quote • Pensioner’s discount available

LMCT 10268W

7 days a week service Call Gus for a free quotation on

0435 904 818

Buy & Sell in our

Motoring section of Network Classifieds.

CALL OR VISIT US ONLINE! networkclassifieds.com.au

Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 21

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Who is the captain of the West Indies test cricket team? 2. Which team won the inaugural NRL premiership in 1998? 3. Who was Australia’s second-highest ranked male tennis player at the beginning of the 2024 Australian Open, following Alex de Minaur?

4. The first turn of Mount Panorama Circuit, home of the Bathurst 1000, has what imposing nickname?

12. True or false: National Hockey League players were not allowed to play in the Olympics until 1988?

5. What colour shirt does Tiger Woods famously prefer to wear in the final round of a golf tournament?

13. How many players are in a handball team?

6. Which water-based sport is known as Octopush in the UK?

15. Abbey Holmes played for which AFL team?

7. Ji Wallace became the first and only Australian to ever win an Olympic gymnastics medal at the Sydney 2000 Games, when he claimed a silver medal in which event? 8. In which month will this year’s Suncorp Super Netball Finals Series begin?

Tiger Woods

14. Who is the captain of the Matildas?

16. The Los Angeles Rams last won the Super Bowl in which year? 17. Which country won the Asian Cup in 2014? 18. How many points is a goal worth in Gaelic football? 19. Out of which city do The Wizards play basketball?

9. Similar in style to polo, what is the national sport of Afghanistan?

20. The 2023 film The Boys in the Boat revolves around which sport?

10. Two-seam, fosh and screwball are all examples of what?

21. The Diamonds represent Australia in which sport?

11. Which NBL team plays out of the WIN Entertainment Centre?

Alex de Minaur

22. Which Australian Olympic champion swimmer recently announced his retirement at age 27?

23. Welshman Stephen Williams recently won what Australian cycling race? 24. Who won the ‘player of the match’ award in the first test between Australia and the West Indies? 25. Which US city will host 2024's NFL Super Bowl LVIII?

28. How many kilometres is a marathon run over? 29. Which Australian city has recently submitted a bid to Cricket Australia for a new Big Bash League franchise? 30. Which sport do the Canberra Cavalry play?

26. Which city were the Los Angeles Lakers based in before moving to their current home? 27. The 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games were held in which country?

0202

22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 January, 2024

12536910-CG08-22

1. Kraigg Brathwaite 2. Brisbane Broncos 3. Alexei Popyrin 4. Hell Corner 5. Red 6. Underwater hockey 7. Trampolining 8. July 9. Buzkashi 10. Baseball pitches 11. Illawarra Hawks 12. True (the IOC had an ‘amateur only’ policy) 13. Seven, including goalkeeper 14. Sam Kerr 15. Adelaide Crows 16. 2022 17. Sri Lanka 18. Three 19. Washington 20. Rowing 21. Netball 22. Mack Horton 23. Tour Down Under 24. Travis Head 25. Las Vegas 26. Minneapolis 27. South Korea 28. 42kms 29. Canberra 30. Baseball

Place Your Classified Ads Online Your advert will appear in print and online!

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

MOTOR

Honda sneaks in hybrid SUV

The new CR-V e:HEV RS brings fuel economy to the Honda flagship. (Pictures: Supplied)

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring Honda has electrified its most popular vehicle. And who would know? One of the world’s biggest makers of internal combustion engines has been very quiet about the coming of the CR-V e:HEV RS. The Honda CR-V has long been an SUV staple for families around the world. Some 13.5 million units have been sold globally since the nameplate launched back in 1997. Two decades on, in its sixth generation, it is still the brand’s top-selling model in Australia. A late-comer to the petrol/electric generation in Australia, the five-seater e:HEV RS features a two-litre direct injection engine mated with a two-motor hybrid system putting out a combined 152 kW of power and 335 Nm of torque via an electronic Continuously Variable Transmission to the front wheels. Honda says e:HEV RS, elevates the CR-V with a dynamic edge. Its sporty appeal is amplified by body-coloured lower bumper and wheel arch trims, while piano black accents on mirror covers rear spoiler, B and C-pillar trims further enhance its sophistication. Inside, red stitching accents across the cabin, coupled with a distinctive black headliner, creates an ambiance of exclusivity and style. Surprisingly, with running-cost economy to the fore – a key step in Honda’s electrification strategy to realise carbon neutrality for all Honda products and corporate activities by 2050 - the hybrid system is limited to the flagship (most expensive) model. Some compensation comes with the RS coming well equipped compared to the rest of the range. Talking of cost, Honda Australia has adopted an agency sales model with fixed pricing that eliminates purchase-price haggling and shopping around, something Honda says it has received positive customer feedback on. The 2024 Honda CR-V range straddles $44,500 to $59,900 drive-away. The latter – the flagship Honda CR-V e:HEV RS hybrid – was on test. The SUV comes under Honda’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with 24/7 roadside assist. Service intervals are 12 months or 10,000 kilometres and capped.

Styling A more powerful, sporty silhouette is achieved by pulling the front pillars back, increasing both the nose length and the wheelbase adding to the overall length. The ‘nose job’, however, seems a bit over the top but the maker says it provides functional contributions including visibility and aerodynamic performance. VTi LX and e:HEV RS get Honda hallmark Berlina Black 19-inch five-circle spoke alloys, over the standard 17 or 18s, for added sporty flair.

Interior Honda says the interior of the all-new CR-V has more cabin and cargo space with seating to suit ‘a broader range of customer lifestyles’ (fatter folk). Lateral support is the loss here, together with flatter and firmer seating. On the upside, all CR-V models now come with rear seat sliders, allowing 190 mm of movement forwards and backwards. This makes children easier to manoeuvre into position, or fit longer items in the cargo area. Rear seat reclining offers 16 positions with an additional reclining angle of 10.5 degrees, helping prevent rear passengers from getting fatigued on long drives. Access to the 589 litres of boot space comes via a power tailgate operated from an external switch. Fold the 60/40 seat backs and 1636 litres becomes available.

Infotainment Focus is on a digital instrument display, nine-inch touchscreen audio system with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, plus front and rear illuminated USB charging ports for the driver and passengers.

Engine and transmission The all-new CR-V features a new more powerful two-motor hybrid system, mated with Honda’s 2.0-litre direct injection Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine. The motors are now mounted side-by-side rather than in-line with the engine crankshaft as in previous generations. The all-new E-CVT motor spins at 14,500 rpm and produces 135 kW peak power with 335 Nm of torque. The generator motor, which

spins at 17,000 rpm, puts out 120 kW, and is dedicated to charging the battery pack. The system’s combined output is 152 kW.

Safety The all-new CR-V maintains its position as a leader in active and passive safety technology, including improved Honda Sensing driver-assistance technology with a new front camera and radar system. An updated Honda Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure is designed to distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front, side, and rear of the vehicle. The CR-V gets 11 airbags all up, including a centre airbag to prevent front seat occupants’ heads from crashing.

Driving There is no argument with the treatment of the driver when it comes to getting behind the wheel of the CR-V e:HEV RS. The front of the cabin has been designed with the driver front and centre, by improving the range of vision and adjusting how objects are viewed in the driver’s frame. Bonnet character lines run along the top of the inner sides of the front tyres, to enable the driver to easily discover the tyre positions. The A-pillar inner surfaces have been designed to run parallel to the direction of travel so the driver’s line of sight is drawn to this. To further improve forward vision when turning, side mirrors have been moved to create a wider gap between the mirror and the front side corner garnish. Under way, the car is no ‘bitumen burner’ but is programmed to get the best out of the petrol/electric hybrid combination. There is little obvious switch in systems, which includes the CVT. Cabin noise is far from intrusive and a 12-speaker Bose sound system makes the best of cabin architecture. Honda claims the hybrid CR-V returns 5.5 litres per 100 kilometres of fuel in the combined urban/highway, which turned out to be spot on for the test car in real time. A bonus is the requirement of 91RON petrol. The e:HEV is equipped with a toggle Drive Mode selector, which switches between

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Honda CR-V VTi X $44,500 Honda CR-V VTi L $48,800 Honda CR-V Ti X7 $46,800 Honda CR-V Ti L7 $53,000 Honda CR-V VTi L AWD $51,300 Honda CR-V LX AWD $57,000 Honda CR-V e:HEV RS $59,900 SPECIFICATIONS Honda CR-V e:HEV RS 2.0L 4-cylinder petrol, 2-motor hybrid, CVT automatic, FWD

Note: These prices are drive-away.

Economy, through Normal to Sport, the last chipping in with Active Sound Control to match the sporty characteristics.

Summary Honda has produced a winner with the CR-V e:HEV RS, taking out the Car of the Year award of a prominent Australian print and online media member for 2023, so it has the hand of experts at its back.

Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Long weekend sporting action There was plenty of sporting action on the long weekend and Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out there capturing those starring with the bat and ball.

Tom McConville. 385454_01

Max Birthisel. 385451_01

Allister Powell. 385460_01

Jarrod Parsons. 385460_06

Stefon King. 385461_01

Lasanga Guruge. 385458_02

Aidan Brasher takes out a wicket. 385451_10

Chathura Malluwa Wadu takes out a wicket. 385458_12

Adam Yates. 385454_03

24 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 January, 2024

Scott Pittaway. 385461_10

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Lions aiming at second win after solid day one Melton produced a solid day to be well and truly in the mix for victory against Strathmore in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-west. In a bottom of the table clash, with one win between them, both sides fancied their chances to come away with some much needed points. The Lions won the toss and decided to bat at Canning Reserve, making 204 as they were bowled out with nine balls left in the innings. It was a different looking Lions line up, with coach Mitch Stephens coming in and opening. He would top score with 62. Stephens said they were reasonably happy after day one, but know they could have had a few more runs on the board. “That is definitely a par score,” he said. “The ground was very slow and soft and got better as the day went on. “We were aiming for 200-220 on that ground. We spoke after the game that we lost nine wickets in 40 overs after tea.

“It was pretty disappointing. In the two day format you need to look to score in the back end and catch up. “A couple of guys were able to do that.” As well as Stephens opening the batting, the Lions had two players make their first XI debuts, Lachlan Peterson and James Robertson. Stephens said they both had deserved their opportunity. “They kept knocking the door down,” he said. “They’ve done everything we’ve asked of them, “We’re rapt for them. “Lachie is only 17 and looks to have a bright future. Robertson is 26 and his first year at the club. “Both have worked really hard off the track and the hard work is paying off.” Now with a solid score on the board, Stephens said they were hoping to convert it to another win. He said whichever team performs better for

longer would come away with the points. “We need to hold onto our catches, Strathmore dropped some,” he said. “We need to take 10 chances and not have to create 15-20 catches.” In a good sign for the future, the Lions under-15 J G Craig Shield side made it through to the semi finals of that competition. Stephens said if they can get a lot of those players in the senior program, there would be plenty of good signs for the future, “The last couple of years we’ve made the semi finals with Joel [Mitchener] in charge,” he said. “There’s some good kids coming through. Last year’s captain has been playing in our twos. “There’s others coming through and the challenge is to have more come through at senior level. Getting results early is always really good.” Ben MacRae (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Tara Murray

Bacchus, Melton both score wins

Caroline Springs George Cross. (Mark Avellino)

Georgies ready to play By Harper Sercombe Caroline Springs George Cross is hoping to make it three in a row as it begins to wind up for the Victorian Premier League 1 season. The club has been promoted rapidly over the last three years, from state league 1 in 2021, to the tier of soccer below the top flight National Premier League for the upcoming season. While the bar, stakes and challenges are set to rise again when the club takes to the pitch on February 10, coach Eric Vassiliadis said he is ready to go. “I’m looking forward to what’s going to be another challenging season, coming off a couple of really successful ones,” he said. “But this is now one step further, there’s definitely been some changes to the squad so we’re working really hard in the preseason to embed some of the new boys we’ve signed but also to think about readjusting what we have to do to make sure we’re successful this year. “I think it’s important that we continue to

reflect on the things that we’ve done well and bring more of those and the things that have caused us harm or risk to try and continue to reduce those things. “But importantly we’ve had a core group of players that have been together for some time, so I think they’re well and truly on board, it’s just about making sure that we bring some freshness, some new ideas, some new energy into the group on and off the park, that includes coaching staff and players. “That’s been the focus, to try and refresh the squad a little bit, continue to build some hunger but making sure that we’re not really going to change our DNA too much.” Some of the players that Vassiliadis is excited to see in the red and white stripes include Nikola Jurkovic, Liam O’Connel, Russ Currie and Ko Sawada. He said there are more players that the club are talking to that could be in the squad by the time match day one rolls around. “There’s definitely some really experienced high quality players that have come

in,” he said. “But I also think through this pre-season we’ve really unearthed some good young talent that’s played a big role through the pre-season. “That being said we definitely want to make sure we’re still moving forward in terms of the pipeline of players coming through.” While a promotion into the NPL would be a fairy tale finish to the Georgies’ campaign over the recent years, Vassiliadis said he knows fairy tales don’t always come true. “We are just working with all of our resources, with all of our people to try to maximise the opportunities of winning the next game,” he said. “If we could achieve something magical like a back-to-back-to-back we would etch our names into some sort of folk law, that is an amazing aspiration. But I’m pretty sure that there’s 13 other clubs looking at doing something similar. “It’s going to be a lot of fun, I know that much, we’re going to enjoy it and hopefully things fall our way.”

Bacchus Marsh and Melton continued on their winning ways in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 2 competition. Bacchus Marsh, which sits atop the section 1 ladder, easily accounted for Club Sunbury 2. While the two teams are at opposite ends of the ladder, Sunbury didn’t let Bacchus Marsh have it all its own way. In the end, Bacchus Marsh claimed the win 87 (16)-61 (2). Glenn Sargent’s rink won 28-12, Dean Warner’s rink was 27-14 and Justin Webster’s rink had a 20-15 win. Phil Minniti’s rink suffered a 20-12 loss. Bacchus Marsh now sits 25 points on top of the ladder after 11 rounds. Glenn Arthur and Minniti, who suffered their first losses on Saturday, remain at the top of the player rankings. Bacchus Marsh plays fourth placed Keilor this Saturday, in the third last round. Melton 2 had a 75 (12)-66 (6) win against City of Melbourne to move up to sixth on the ladder. The side is 34 points behind Keilor. In section 2, Melton’s top side had a good win against Strathmore. It was all one way traffic with the Mustangs winning, 90 (18)-58 (0). Flynn O’Shaughnessy’s rink was the big winner on the day, winning 22-7. Todd Blackburn’s rink won 19-17, Todd Trewarne’s rink won 20-14 and Chris Baritt-Eyles’ rink won 29-20. After 11 rounds, the Mustangs sit a massive 52 points clear on top of the ladder. The top 11 players in the section are all Mustangs players, with Oscar Jones having a perfect season so far, with his rink having won every week. The Mustangs this Saturday face Essendon 2.

Dean Warner (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 25

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Just Believe races past $1million in prizemoney Champion trotter Just Believe became the first Australian bred trotter to earn $1 million in prizemoney after taking out the V. L. Dullard Cup at Melton on Saturday night. Sent out a prohibitive $1.08 favourite, Just Believe worked to the lead with 1600 metres to travel and it was left to outstanding mare Queen Elida to issue a challenge with 400 metres to travel. Queen Elida got to the wheel of the Just Believe on straightening, however with Greg Sugars barely moving a muscle, Just Believe reeled off a slick 26.8 last 400 metres to score with plenty in reserve by two metres from Queen Elida. “He’s just a wonderful horse and keeps getting the job done. he just loves racing and is such a pleasure to be around,“ Sugars said. “It’s been such a wonderful ride with this horse, it’s not only his race track deeds and what he’s achieved but its been the support we’ve received from right around the world and the people are really behind him and want to see him do well.

Just Believe (Stuart McCormick)

Sugars said the race provided a perfect final hit out in preparation for next week’s Group 1 Yabby Dam Farms Great Southern Star. “Tonight you couldn’t have scripted it any better for him and it was just a beautiful little hit out to have him cherry ripe for next week,” he said. Ironically, the win was Just Believes first

success in the V. L. Dullard Cup after finishing third behind New Zealand trotter Majestic Man in the race last year. The win was the Yabby Dam Farms bred eight-year-old’s 25th from 67 race starts. Half an hour later Just Believe’s stable mate Better Eclipse too passed $1 million in stake earnings after saluting in the Casey Classic

Melton’s familiar faces

John Dunne

Sports shorts VSDCA Melton finished the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association T20 competition without a win. The Woodsmen, who are on top of the north-west competition, beat Melton to lock in second spot in the T20s. The Woodsmen continued their strong form with the bat, making 6-174. Jarrod Martignago top scored with 59, while Lachie McKenna made 50. Stephen Shields took three wickets for the Lions. The Lions struggled to get going with only Joel Mitchener passing 16as the side was bowled out for 105 in the final over.

By Harper Sercombe Melton has welcomed back a suite of premiership players as it attempts to make amends for last year’s Ballarat Football League straight sets finals exit. After winning the premiership in 2022 the Bloods suffered no premiership hangover, only losing four games for the year. However, half of the losses came in the most important games of the season. Following the one point semi final loss to East Point, premiership coach Aaron Tymms announced his departure from the club, paving the way for Troy Scoble to take the reins. Player retention and recruitment was always going to be the first major test for Scoble. With just two players leaving the club and quality coming through the doors, he said he has been filled with confidence. “Whenever there’s a change in coach at a footy club, especially locally, there’s that opportunity for all players to consider where their future is going to be,” he said. “So for us to get an endorsement from 98 per cent of the list was really good for the club. “I think the players were quite aware that the new coaching team would be somewhat different to what they had recently experienced. It was a really good opportunity for them to think about whether they wanted to be part of that. “For us to then get that we felt like that endorsed the vision that we were going to take the club on.” Amongst the players arriving at the club are brothers Jaycob and Lachlan Hickey, Bailey Mawson, and Harrison Hanley, all of which are 2022 premiership players. Scoble said the talent that was returning was quite strong. “There’s some really exciting young talent that have already played in premierships at senior level, so you’d like to think that they’re really going to add some strength to the squad,” he said. “Our focus has really been on bringing Melton people back who weren’t at the club. We’ve brought a couple of players back who had left the club or stopped playing for whatever reason. “We’ll have probably five or six players return plus a group of players that were either unable to play last year or give limited commitment, have now stepped up their commitment. “We’re really excited about our squad, it’ll be a local squad, which is something that the club has been really proud of in recent years.”

completing a memorable night for Jess Tubbs’ and Greg Sugars’ Larajay Farm outfit. Sugars opted to surrender the lead to Bulletproof Boy on the $1.45 favourite and await his chances along the sprint lane while his main danger the Mark Purdon trained Don’t Stop Dreaming landed in the one out one back trail. Purdon made his move approaching the home turn and Don’t Stop Dreaming quickly loomed up ominously, however Sugars was able to ease out off the back of the leader and Better Eclipse sprinted quickly to outlast the Kiwi by half a head. “He’s a great horse and for a horse who has just earned $1m he has probably flown under the radar for most of his career and has just kept getting the job done,” he said. “He’s a wonderful horse and it was a great hit out for him tonight and hopefully there’s bigger things to come next week.

Ballarat CA Bacchus Marsh’s run in the Ballarat Cricket Association T20 competition has come to an end. The Bulls faced East Ballarat in a semi final last Tuesday night. East Ballarat piled on the runs, making 5-223. Jack Powell was the only multiple wicket taker for the Bulls, with two wickets. The Bulls fell well short, finishing 9-158. Blayde Baker top scored with 43.

Australia Cup Melton Phoenix, Westside Strikers and Spring Hills will all be part of the opening round of the knockout Australia Cup competition. Teams from the state league 3, 4 and 5 along with regional teams were in the first round draw. Spring Hills drew Tullamarine, Westside Strikers drew Mentone and Melton Phoenix will face Elwood City. The competition starts on the weekend of February 9.

Ballarat CA It was a tough day for Bacchus Marsh in the Ballarat Cricket Association on Saturday. Facing Golden Point, the Bulls spent the day in the field as Golden Point made 8-299 from its overs.Hamish Lyle and Jack Powell took three wickets each for the Bulls. In Darley’s match against Brown Hill, Brown Hill was 3-52 after 27 overs. Jordan Kight (Ljubica Vrankovic) 338083_03_1

Scoble said finals remains his goal for the season, yet he is keen to unearth some talent along the way. “We know that we’ll have a really deep list of talent so we’re really committed to try and give as many players across the whole list a senior opportunity as possible,” he said. “But certainly our major goal will be to be a finals team and once we get in a position

26 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 30 January, 2024

if we’re able to qualify, then we will look at where we might be able to finish. “My assessment of the whole league is that it’s a very even league and anyone of seven or eight teams could finish in any of the top seven or eight spots, so I think it’s going to be a very even competition again.” Melton is set to kick off its season against rivals Melton South on April 13.

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

Phoenix is keen to keep the momentum rolling On the back of promotion out of FV state league 5 west, Melton Phoenix is keen to keep the momentum rolling in state league 4 west this season. Coach Darren Traynor said it has been a strong off-season for the club, with fresh talent arriving at MacPherson Park. “It’s been going really well, it’s been pretty positive,” he said. “It’s been very promising, we’ve added a bit of new blood to the team to refresh and keep everyone on their toes. “We’re still in the midst of recruiting. We’ve been on the front foot, supported by the club, we have to though… While we’ve got promotion and while we’re going well, we’ve got to really capitalise on that. “We can’t just be happy to sit because we got a promotion. I want to keep going and try to

capture this for as long as we can and amongst doing that build a sustainable plan where we’ve got kids coming through, which we have. “A couple of kids come into the senior squad to train, who probably won’t play much senior football this season but it’ll keep them at the club so in another two or three years time

they’re good to go.” Not only is there internal growth coming through, Traynor said he is happy with the players he has secured at the club. However, he said he is keeping things close to his chest for now. The season doesn’t get underway until mid March. “There’s a couple of really good individuals and they’re experienced campaigners who have played in a league or two higher but they’re really good people,” he said. “I’m big on that, you need to have good people. Most of the time before you get a good footballer you need a good person. “We feel like we’ve signed three really good people and in addition to that we’ve got three really good footballers so we’re really happy with our signings so far.

Storm eye seven to win Sydenham-Hillside need seven wickets for victory in its Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division clash with St Albans. The Storm batted first on Saturday afternoon and struggled to get their innings underway losing two wickets for just 10 runs. It seemed like the Storm were on a roll at 3-79, but it then went on to lose their next three wickets for no runs. Storm lost another wicket not long after, putting them into a spot of bother at 7-84. Cameos from Thomas Barlas and Shehan Wedikkara late in the innings helped the Storm reach 129 before they were bowled out in the 55th over. Opening batsman Dombagaha Peiris was the Storm’s top run scorer making 50 from 97 deliveries. With overs still remaining in the day, St Albans went in to bat. The Saints batted well in their 21 overs and will resume at 3-60 on Saturday. In other results, Caroline Springs are in a winning position after day one of its division 3 clash against Sunshine Heights. The Falcons took to the field first and bowled Sunshine Heights out for 126 in 54 overs. Gavin Mccallum was a clear stand out with the ball, taking 6-43 from 15.2 overs, taking the final five wickets of the innings. The Falcons then went out to bat and made a big dent in the chase, finishing the day at 2-111. Captain Shiran Rajakaruna led from the front smashing an unbeaten 86 from 69 balls in a knock that included 15 fours. In division 4, Melton South Royals are just 87 runs away from its fourth win of the season. The Royals were strong with the ball on Saturday against Laverton, taking wickets consistently throughout the innings. Nathan Geisler had a terrific spell with the ball, taking 3-16. With the three wickets taking Laverton from 2-69 to 5-72. A run out from Thilan Maduranga and Joshua Sutton put an end to Laverton’s innings, with the Royals dismissing them for 150 from 49 overs. The Royals were left just shy of 30 overs to bat out the day and were able to etch themselves closer to victory. They will resume batting at 3-63 after 28 overs, with opener Nathan Waites and captain Andrew Hodgart as the not out batsman. In division 5, Melton Centrals could be on track for its first win of the season, against Jacana. After batting first on Saturday the Centrals posted a score of 10-139 from 66.1 overs. The innings had contributions from a range of players, with the top scorer being opener

Burras go down again

Stefon King (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Steve Robertson with 34. After dismissing the Centrals, Jacana had 11 overs to survive. However, the Centrals were able to collect 2-11. Mitchell Roshier was the wicket taker, with 2-5. Also in division 5, Burnside Springs United has already claimed a first innings victory over Seabrook.

“We’ve signed a defender, midfielder and potentially a goalkeeper and there’s one or two more to come in.” While the state league 4 season won’t start until March, the Phoenix will take to the pitch for the Australia Cup in early February. “Elwood [City] on the 10th of February, they’ll be very decent, they’re a state three south-east team and finished mid-table,” Traynor said. “They’ll be a really good challenge for us and it’ll be really good to have it at home too. “It’s something a bit different and being a knockout phase it’s really good. It’s about whoever has a good day on the day will progress to the following round and it’s good to play a club that we’ve never played before.” Harper Sercombe

Seabrook batted first, and was dismissed for 61, then Burnside batted and chased the runs down and were able to add another 48 runs, finishing on 109. Seabrook then were able to get another 11 overs of batting in and will resume on Saturday at 2-25, where Burnside Springs will attempt to collect an outright win and the full points on offer.

Diggers Rest Bulla remains winless in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup after being convincingly beaten by the Sunbury Kangaroos on Saturday. Last week the Burras won the toss and batted, and were dismissed for just 126. The Kangaroos were able to chase the runs down on Saturday, declaring at 7-158, claiming a first innings win. Burras’ coach Darren Quarrell was the best with the ball claiming 3-52 off a massive 28 overs. The Burras then batted again, closing out the overs at 2-109, surviving an outright defeat. In the second dig with the bat, opening batsman Nathan Crosland was able to put some runs on the board making 63, while Quarrell made an unbeaten 32. The Burras remain in bottom spot, nearly 11 points behind Rupertswood. The Burras will travel to Woodend on Saturday for another two-day clash. In the Johnstone Shield, Aintree also suffered defeat as it could not chase down the target set by Kilmore. After sending Kilmore in to bat, Aintree bowled it out last week for 253 from 68.3 overs. Paras Sharma was Aintree’s best bowler taking 4-37. With the bat Aintree was unable to get the runs, despite a good start with opener Jashanpreet Singh top scoring with 81. The club’s last five wickets were lost for just 40 runs as it was bowled out for 200. Aintree remains in fourth position. Eynesbury also went down on Saturday, with Broadford narrowly missing out on an outright victory. In the first innings, Eynesbury were bowled out for just 81. In response Broadford made 206 before they declared six wickets down. ‘ Yet the Eagles were able to dig in and only lose the one second innings wicket, finishing the match at 1-92. Opening batsman Jason Davis top scored with 63 not out. Eynesbury sit in sixth spot, just under 14 points behind Aintree.

Tuesday, 30 January, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 27

12659078-KG03-24