Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 6th February 2024

Established in 1981 as the

proudly serving Melton and Moorabool

6 FEBRUARY, 2024

New love for bridge

By Liam McNally A historic local landmark, just off the Old Western Highway on the border of Melton and Moorabool, has fallen into disrepair, according to a new community group that has formed with the intent of fixing it.

The Old Djerriwarrh Bridge was a favourite picnic spot for Lita Kerr Tirkkonen’s family when her children were young. She remembers an area that was “ so beautiful” - eating at stone picnic tables, and trekking around the healthy stream and exploring the wildlife.

The sandstone bridge with its distinctive single-arch was built in the 1850s and was an important link between Melbourne and Ballarat in the Gold Rush era.

Now though, Ms Tirkkonen said she feels “quite sad” about what the heritage-listed spot has become - a “forgotten site” that’s overgrown, and littered with waste and even abandoned cars.

“The bridge and site started being neglected when the new freeway was built,” she said.

“The old highway was no longer a thoroughfare for travellers to travel on from Melbourne to Ballarat.

“People are now using it to dump their hard waste and rubbish. The surrounding site of the bridge has old cars, washing machines, and other big items, amongst household rubbish.”

Ms Tirkkonen decided to take matters into her own hands by creating the Djerriwarrh Creek Bridge community group.

The group is active on Facebook, and has begun advocating for the clean-up of the area by contacting around half a dozen government and stakeholder agencies.

In Ms Tirkkonen’s view, the first things required to restore the area include cleaning up rubbish, installing cameras to prevent further dumping, gated but functional car parks, roadside signage stating the history of the bridge and surroundings and ongoing preservation.

“There is so much history relating to the historical bridge and surrounding site,” she said.

“If we can’t have our own government, and other stakeholders take pride and care of the historical bridge and site, community possibly see it as ‘why should we?’”

Melbourne Water is responsible for the stream beneath the bridge, and it has received a number of requests by the local community to help with illegal dumping, which it acknowledges is an issue there.

Melbourne Water Waterway and Catchment Services North West head

Lita Kerr Tirkkonen at the Old Djerriwarrh Creek Bridge. (Damjan Janevski) 386377_02

Victoria Penko said the organisation works across communities to keep 25,000km of Melbourne’s rivers, creeks and catchments healthy – including Djerriwarrh Creek.

“While we’re not the land manager at the Djerriwarrh Creek Bridge site, we’re keen to work with community groups and relevant authorities to determine what they can do to

safely assist in cleaning up the waterway,” he said.

The bridge and surrounding area is owned by the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), which said crews conduct regular inspections and remove any immediate safety hazards. In a statement the DTP said illegal dumping remains an

ongoing challenge and urged everyone to dispose of their rubbish in a responsible manner. Illegal rubbish dumping can be reported to the EPA on 1300 372 842.

The Djerriwarrh Creek Bridge Community group is seeking new members and can be found on Facebook.

Details: http://tinyurl.com/mtjpdkak

PREPARED DAILY USING LOCALLY SOURCED FRESH AND SEASONAL PRODUCTS We now delivery anytime during our trading hours visit us on Google.com.au Open Monday to Sunday for pick-up and contactless delivery.

Order at our website online or Menulog

Delivery through Uber, DoorDash & MENULOG Shop 5/11 -17 Station Road Melton South (Next to Ruby’s & Coles) • Ph 8732 9170

Mention this ad for 10% off Find us at google and click on website, then order your fresh delicious fish and chips 12667479-AA06-24

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

21 - 24 MARCH

T S A ING F

L U L A .

E S M ETS IX.CO

12667103-FC06-24

TICK GRANDPR

2 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 February, 2024

22/1/2024 2:50 pm

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Libs ready for defamation trial

By Callum Godde, AAP A high-profile lawyer has been dressed down in court as exiled Victorian Liberal MP Moira Deeming’s defamation battle with Opposition Leader John Pesutto heads for trial.

In a procedural hearing neither attended on Friday, Justice Michael Wheelahan scheduled a 10-day trial for the case in the Federal Court from September 16.

Mrs Deeming’s case consists of 67 alleged imputations made by Mr Pesutto in media releases, press conferences and radio interviews after she attended a rally in March that was gatecrashed by masked men who performed Nazi salutes.

A 15-page dossier distributed by Mr Pesutto’s office to MPs and media as part of an initial push to expel her from the Victorian Liberal’s parliamentary ranks also forms part of Mrs Deeming’s evidence.

Mr Pesutto has conceded two of the 67

alleged imputations were defamatory but will argue they are substantially true.

Justice Wheelahan expressed concern about the state of Mrs Deeming’s case, taking her barrister Sue Chrysanthou SC to task.

“The first publication, the media release, in its first form comprises 18 lines,“ he said.

“Eighteen lines and you’ve come up with 23 imputations.“ The alleged imputations vary from Mrs Deeming supporting white supremacists and neo-Nazis, Mrs Deeming holding abhorrent white supremacist and neo-Nazi views and Mrs Deeming being a neo-Nazi.

“What’s the difference?“ Justice Wheelahan asked.

“How many ways are there of saying the same thing.“ Mr Pesutto maintains he never accused the now-independent MP of being a Nazi or having Nazi sympathies.

Ms Chrysanthou said the imputations all

conveyed different levels of seriousness.

A narrowing of the meanings would ensure she was not “barking up the wrong tree“ at trial and save her client and the defence time and money, she argued.

“Both parties appear to be well-armed, with respect,“ Justice Wheelahan shot back.

Mr Pesutto’s lawyers will mostly rely on the honest opinion defence, which entitles speakers to express an opinion shown to be substantially true, as well as contextual truth and qualified privilege.

His 57-page defence flags his team will try to limit damages if those arguments fail by suggesting he repeatedly and unequivocally publicly stated he does not believe Mrs Deeming “to be a neo-Nazi, a white supremacist, or anything of similar substance or effect“.

Mrs Deeming’s repeated assertions that Mr Pesutto suggested she is a Nazi or a Nazi sympathiser have “likely to have caused

damage to her own reputation“, his lawyers claim.

During Friday’s first hearing, Mr Pesutto’s barrister Matt Collins KC stepped through the events of the Let Women Speak rally, arguing it had been “hijacked“ by neo-Nazis with a “disgraceful“ banner.

But even that description is disputed, with Ms Chrysanthou suggesting the neo-Nazis were there for a “completely different rally“.

Dr Collins was initially attracted to the idea of a separate hearing to rule on the “extraordinary“ number of alleged imputations, but has since decided it would likely lead to more costs and delays.

“There’s no knockout blow available to either party here,“ he said.

Justice Wheelahan stopped short of ordering Ms Chrysanthou’s team to revise its case but will raise the issue when the matter returns to court on April 26.

They’ll have you dancing in the streets of Ballan

Professor Oli Hinton from the Ballan Community Street Band (Damjan Janevski) 384815_02

with others than playing by yourself,” he said.

“We’re especially looking for additional saxophones, and for street drummers and

“Don’t be shy! Come along and give it a try!”

Details: oli.hinton@gmail.com

percussionists. We have made arrangements that can suit any level of skill, except for absolute beginners.

Authorised by Sam Rae MP, 100 McKenzie Street Melton

Have a say on land survey Melton residents have a unique opportunity to have their say on a strategic vision to boost local jobs and deliver economic growth that keeps pace with the municipality’s rapidly growing community.

The Melton Employment and Industrial Land Strategy is a long-term plan for the use and development of commercial and industrial land in Australia’s fastest growing municipality.

The strategy uses Melton’s abundant supply of commercial and industrial land, population growth and state and federal government infrastructure investment to increase local employment opportunities and foster economic growth.

Key initiatives from the strategy include the identification of an economic corridor along the Western Freeway that will

support existing and future industrial and employment precincts and activity centres, a municipality-wide framework of employment land use and precinct plans that will guide the future use of employment land.

Melton council is inviting feedback on the draft strategy from investors, businesses and the wider community. The strategy hopes to provide certainty to the private sector and the community in the long-term and help inform investment decisions.

Melton Mayor Kathy Majdlik said community input will help create the vision and objectives for employment areas and will also assist council with identifying opportunities and aspirations for those areas.

Consultation closes at 5pm on February 29.

Details: conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/ MEILS

LABOR MADE CHILDCARE CHEAPER FOR MORE THAN 6,800 FAMILIES IN HAWKE

Including Melton & Moorabool 100 McKenzie Street, Melton

9070 1960

Sam Rae

12661981-JD02-24

If you’ve noticed the streets of Ballan grow a little louder in the last 12 months, it may be the handiwork of the Ballan Community Street Band, which has just celebrated its first birthday.

With the assistance of a grant of $2,900 from Moorabool Shire Council’s Community Grant’s Program, the Ballan Community Street Band was established in early 2023, with its first practise session on February 6.

Band co-founder professor Oliver Hinton has been trumpeting the success of the band’s first year.

“The Ballan Community Street Band is a classic mixed street band which are one of the wonders of the musical world,” he said.

“Our music is informal, includes many genres, and we dress up as part of our street entertainment. All of the dozen members are amateur musicians from the local community, playing a range of acoustic instruments.”

Professor Hinton’s proudest moments for the band include the “unknown challenge” of the band’s first gig at the Moorabool Mushroom Festival which went “fantastically well”, and a “wild” gig in May inside the Gordon cafe for their Bohemian Gathering.

Moving forward, the band is excited to be playing in the Ballan Autumn Parade on March 17, CresFest on April 7, on the streets of Creswick, and potentially a spot at White Night Ballarat on June 1.

Professor Hinton said the group is keen to hear from acoustic instrumentalists who want to join in on the fun.

“Whether you already play regularly, or you have an instrument that’s been gathering dust for a few years, bring it along and have a play - It’s much more fun and motivating playing

Tuesday, 6 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 3

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Family’s loss is ‘immeasurable’

By Tara Cosoleto, AAP

44-year-old man’s death.

The judge referred to the family’s victim impact statements, saying they were extremely moving.

“Your speed was outrageous and the impact was severe,” Judge Scott Johns said in sentencing Comport on Friday. “(Mr Singh) was a much-loved husband and father ... he was in the prime of his life.”

Comport sobbed during his October plea hearing, admitting to Mr Singh’s family that he never should have got behind the wheel.

The court was told the unlicensed driver had been travelling 168km/h in a 80km/h zone when he struck the Jeep about 3.30pm.

He had evaded police twice in the preceding 30 minutes, with multiple drivers later telling

An unlicensed driver has been jailed for nine years for killing a much-loved father and well-known Punjabi singer while high on drugs.

Corey Comport, 25, was travelling close to 170km/h when he crashed into a Jeep on the Bulla-Diggers Rest Road northwest of Melbourne on August 30, 2022.

The force of the collision caused the Jeep to slam into a Toyota Kluger driven by Nirvair Singh, who died at the scene from significant head and chest injuries.

Comport watched on through tears as he was sentenced in the County Court to nine years’ jail for culpable driving causing the

detectives they were scared as he weaved between lanes and overtook them.

A roadside drug test showed he was under the influence of GHB, methamphetamine and ketamine.

Judge Johns noted the devastating impact of Comport’s driving on Mr Singh’s family, especially his wife Harpreet Kaur and their two young sons.

The judge referred to the family’s victim impact statements, saying they were extremely moving and powerful, and their pain “leapt off the page”.

“The enormity of the loss is immeasurable,” he said.

“He was the centre of his wife’s world and his children’s ... he was relied upon by so many.”

Judge Johns accepted Comport was genuinely remorseful and ashamed of his offending.

He also acknowledged the 25-year-old had a traumatic childhood, diagnosed mental illnesses, including schizophrenia, and he had been abusing drugs since his early teens.

That “constellation of factors” moderately reduced Comport’s moral culpability but the offending was still very serious and a jail term more than the eight-year standard was required, Judge Johns said.

Comport was sentenced to nine years in prison but he will be eligible for parole after five years and eight months.

His licence was cancelled and he was disqualified from driving for five years.

Speeding still worries police

Racers in the 2023 Melton Gold Cup. (Jacob Pattison) 316628_09

Powerboats ready to roar this month Some of the fastest circuit boat racers in Australia that hit speeds of up to 240kmph will be competing for the Melton Gold Cup across February 16, 17 and 18.

Now in its 28th year, the Melton Gold Cup will have Australia’s fastest Blown Alcohol Displacement (B.A.D.) racing boats and 2,500 daily spectators descend on the Melton Reservoir.

Bring your chair and blanket for a picturesque day enjoying exciting speedboat racing with family and friends.

Melbourne Runabout and Speedboat Club Commodore Chris Dynon said for the first time this year the races will include the first round of the Australian drivers championship, which is run over four rounds around the country, and TV coverage from 7plus and 7mate will ensure its bigger than ever.

“You will never see anything like it - when the boats are all lined up coming down the front straight and heading to the first turn it has you jumping to your feet… And the speed of them all doing 150mph all trying to be the

first to the corner and then all battling it out for three laps just trying to take out the win,” he said.

“The event isn’t just about boat racing, it’s about putting back, we donate the gate-taking to Beyond Blue.

“So, get behind it as it’s an important charity, and if you haven’t seen powerboat racing you won’t be disappointed with three days of action pack side by side racing, with lots of action.

“So bring your chairs and sit back and be ready for anything to happen.”

Speeding drivers made up more than 60 per cent of offences detected by police in Melton and Moorabool during a four-day statewide road policing operation on the January 26 long weekend.

Operation Amity involved a highly visible police presence on Victorian roads and highways in an effort to reduce road trauma. Police detected 2,261 speeding offences across the state, with 75 occurring in Melton and Moorabool.

A total of 5,206 traffic offences were detected during Operation Amity, with 118 detected locally. In Melton and Moorabool police caught 16 unregistered vehicles, six disqualified drivers and five drunk drivers.

Road Policing assistant commissioner Glenn Weir said despite police warnings, they continue to detect a concerningly high number of motorists for speeding during these long weekend operations.

“Most speed detections are for low to mid-range speeding, which suggests to us that many motorists think it’s acceptable to travel just a little bit over the speed limit,” he said.

“What many motorists don’t seem to grasp is that speeding continues to be the leading cause of serious injury and fatal collisions – a quarter of last year’s fatal collisions were as a result of speed.

“Any form of excessive or inappropriate speed, whether it be 5km/h to 25km/h over the limit, significantly increases the likelihood of being involved in a collision.”

With the return of school this week, police are urging motorists to adhere to the 40km/h speed limit in school zones.

Don’t rely on your mains water supply in a bushfire.

gww.com.au/bushfires 4 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 February, 2024

Phone 13 44 99

12651581-JC49-23

You could experience low pressure or no supply.

Make sure you’ve got enough drinking water in your emergency kit for everyone in your household.

Please visit our website for more information.

Translation & Interpreter Service 13 14 50

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Relief demand triples

Ambulance times down

By Liam McNally Demand for the Western Emergency Relief Network (WERN) has more than tripled in the last eight years, and it’s asking for extra support to help vulnerable members of the community.

WERN is a volunteer-run organisation that provides emergency relief and assistance through its Member Welfare Agencies.

Its primary service is providing material aid including furniture, appliances and bedding to people in need.

WERN administration manager Ross Butterworth said that when WERN launched in 2015 it helped three to four families a week with an average of 11 items per order, but today it’s supporting 10 to 12 families per week with an average of 35 to 40 items supplied per order.

Since December, wait-times for an appointment with WERN have blown out to almost a month, where they used to be almost non-existent.

“I was part of the working party charged with setting up the WERN program and I have never experienced the level of requests we have today,” Mr Butterworth said.

“The obvious impact is the cost of living and the increasing number of families in crisis, together with the impacts of the floods in October 2022 starting to impact on services such as ours as families are recovering to resettle their lives after the battles with insurers, financial institutions, and in some cases councils.”

Mr Butterworth said to help meet rising demand, WERN is seeking more volunteers and donations.

“Supply and demand has always been challenging… as the demand surges we have struggled to get sufficient numbers of required items into stock for clients. “Whitegoods

Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics are reaching patients in Metropolitan Melbourne faster than a year ago, and Melton emergencies had the biggest time improvement in wait times.

Ambulances responded to incidents in Melton three minutes and 21 seconds faster than a year ago, however the wait time was at 16 minutes, one minute longer than the response time target of 15 minutes.

Metropolitan regional director Michael Georgiou said the average response time to Code 1 “lights and sirens” cases across Victoria was now under 15 minutes for the first time in more than two years.

“While there is more work ahead of us, it is encouraging our response to Code 1 emergencies improved a full minute and 46 seconds across Victoria compared to a year ago,” he said.

“Our dedicated paramedics and first responders are to be commended for the outstanding care they deliver to communities across the state.”

The last quarter of 2023 was the busiest in AV’s history with 154,267 emergency cases. This includes 99,833 Code 1 cases – the second most on record – and 54,434 Code 2 cases.

Between October and December 2023, paramedics across Victoria responded to 67.3 per cent of Code 1 cases within the statewide target of 15 minutes – up from 60.2 per cent a year ago.

Outside the city, Moorabool also had a large decrease in wait times from 21 minutes and 18 seconds to 17 minutes and 36 seconds.

WERN Wednesday shift supervisor Geoff Coates readying furniture to be donated. (Damjan Janevski) 386245_02

and beds are always a problem in attracting sufficient numbers. WERN is very fortunate to have two volunteer technicians repairing broken or damaged whitegoods so we can accept fridges, washing machines and dryers whether they are working or not,” he said.

“WERN is supported with some fantastic donors and incredible donations but is always in need of more.

NEWS

“More Volunteers will provide WERN the opportunity to increase appointment times and access, to operate our Collections Team more frequently to increase the numbers of donations collected and to handle the increased volumes of donations needed.

“All volunteers and support is welcome and there are many different roles available.”

Details: warehouse@wern.org or 8372 4110.

Retiring soon? Homes in Tarneit from $390K

VILLA 133

VILLA 129

VILLA 19

VILLA 14

VILLA 60

$400K

$390K

$560K

$530K

$525K

1

1

2

1

1

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

Book a tour with our sales specialist Andrea on 0458 603 047 to discuss your retirement living in these friendly and welcoming communities.

rcavillages.com.au

83 Kulin Drive, Tarneit

2 Availability and pricing correct at publication date 31.1.2024

2

12666946-JH06-24

Tuesday, 6 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 5

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

12655744-SN06-24

6 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 February, 2024

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Briefs

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

CONTACT US

Fatal collision Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal collision between a car and a motorcycle in Melton on Sunday.

Emergency services were called to the intersection of Coburns Road and Western Freeway about 12.10am. The yet to be formally identified male rider of the motorcycle died at the scene.

The driver of the car is speaking to police but the exact cause of the collision is yet to be determined.

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

Moorabool retail strategy GENERAL REAL ESTATE INQUIRIES reads@starweekly.com.au

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

Reverand Dr William Osagiede in the newly finished church. (Damjan Janevski) 384797_01

A Sureway to celebrate Sureway International Christian Ministries has finished building its new church building in Melton and is inviting the community to come celebrate its grand opening.

Over the past 12 months, Sureway has been constructing the 1000sqm new church which includes an auditorium , office areas and specific rooms for foodbank and friendship groups.

Sureway will be celebrating its completion with events over three days from February 9 to 11.

From 7.30pm Friday former Australian Christian Churches vice president Pastor Alun Davies is ministering a revival service, on Saturday from 7.30pm Dr Clement Iyoha from Atlanta Georgia USA will be holding a free concert for the community and the grand opening will commence on Sunday at 4pm where Pastor Alun Davies will formally cut the ribbon to officially open the church for worship.

Senior Pastor Dr Reverend William Osagiede said seeing the church complete is a dream come true.

“This building has been my main desire for the last 12 years , with lots of prayers and planning going into this project,” he said.

“I am so glad and excited that we are part of the Melton community, helping to enhance the spiritual atmosphere in our community, Sureway is very connected to people.

“As the senior pastor of Sureway Melton, I am pleased to be able to serve the community through our new facility and see many people connecting again to the Savior Jesus Christ.

“The Melton community are welcomed to come fellowship with us on Sundays from 10.30am until about 12.30pm, Tuesday Bible Study from 7pm to 8pm and Fridays from 7.30pm to 9pm.”

The church is located at 11 Nitro Drive, Melton.

Moorabool council is developing a Retail Strategy to grow and sustain a vibrant network of retail activity centres that offer the best possible range of goods and services to Moorabool residents and visitors.

Council is asking residents to have their say and help shape the future of retail within the Moorabool municipality before March 3.

Lunar New Year Melton and Caroline Springs libraries are hosting a special roster of activities this week for Lunar New Year. Celebrate The Year of the Dragon with a special Toddler Time, Storytime and After Schooligans, listening to festive stories and creating your own dragon. The libraries have also acquired mahjong sets available for drop-in sessions.

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

NO STAMP DUTY !

FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES

Two Bedrooms, Spacious Open Plan, Second Living/Study, Outdoor Entertaining 2 2

Villa 26 | $535,000 – Great Village Location

1

FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES

• Secure community

• Bowling green

• Exclusive gym

• Caravan storage

• 24/7 emergency call system

• Low maintenance

• Hair dressing salon

• Country Club bus

• Spacious Country Club

• Resort style facilities

• Live in onsite Manager

• Pet friendly

168 Underbank Blvd Bacchus Marsh 3340

QUALITY, SECURE RETIREMENT LIVING!

bellbrookgardens.com.au

Talk to Denise Sniegowski Your Lifestyle Consultant

0455 910 793 Sole agents for Country Club Living

12666802-MP06-24

• Large lounge, second living or study, private rear living and short stroll to community club house

FREECALL 1800 633 672 Tuesday, 6 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 7

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Grassroots support for youth LGBTIQA+ youth in Melbourne’s western suburbs will soon have access to a new Queer Psychosocial Outreach Program (QPOP).

Youth Projects received a $239,968 grant from the state government to expand support for LGBTIQA+ youth living in Melbourne’s western suburbs.

Youth Projects is an independent, registered charity providing front line support to young people and individuals experiencing disadvantage, unemployment, homelessness, alcohol and other drug issues.

The new QPOP initiative is aimed at providing essential support to LGBTIQA+ youth aged 12-24, specifically those with

varying abilities such as autism, ADHD and psychosocial challenges.

The charity has a number of sites throughout Melbourne including in Melton, Footscray, Hoppers Crossing, Point Cook, St Albans, Sunshine, Taylors Lakes and Werribee.

The QPOP program, scheduled to commence in March 2024, aims to initially support 80 young people with plans to evaluate, scale and increase this support in coming years.

Youth Outreach coordinator Maddy Bieleny said the program will provide tailored and individualised support to each young person.

“Across all the regions that we work in, we see young people everyday who are looking

for support, particularly with their mental health. At the moment about 60 per cent of the young people who access our youth outreach program identify as LGBTQIA+ and all of them have identified mental health concerns,” she said. “... We know that LGBTQIA+ youth have a variety of different challenges and barriers that they face, but regardless of how the young people present, we work collaboratively with them. They could be facing barriers like employment or education, mental health, family violence etcetera.

“Our holistic outreach model means that we can meet young people where they’re at.

We not only work alongside young people to support them to identify the goals they want to achieve, but we meet them in the community wherever they’re comfortable, whether that be the home, school, park or at a cafe, to provide that wrap-around holistic support to focus on the whole person within their whole context.”

The QPOP program can be assessed in a number of ways, youth can drop-in to the Youth Projects Werribee Youth Hub and speak with the staff there. Alternatively the Youth Outreach team can be contacted directly on (03) 9304 9100 or a refferal form can be submitted through https://www.youthprojects. org.au/forms/find-support.

CFA ready for championships

Flavour Fest is returning to Aintree in March. (Supplied)

Flavour Fest returns to the west A celebration of community, culture and cuisine is on the horizon with Flavour Fest returning to Frontier Park in Aintree on Saturday, March 2.

From noon to 9pm the free event will include tasty bites from Victoria’s most popular food trucks and a stellar line up of music artists who will have the crowd dancing into the sunset.

For those over 18, Flavour Fest will have a dedicated Beer Garden showcasing local boutique brewers, wine distillers and artisan spirits from Melbourne’s west.

Families will find plenty of fun at the ‘Play Zone’, with a sustainability-focused

immersive art experience by the Slow Art Collective, roving artists and plenty of other interactive activities, a Wellness by Woodlea area where guests can try activities that encourage mindfulness and feel-good vibes, a giant Ferris Wheel and multiple rides, and the event will conclude with an epic firework display.

Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said Council is pleased to be partnering again with Woodlea to deliver a quality family-friendly festival.

“Flavour Fest is a chance for residents to celebrate what they love about where they live and for visitors to get a taste of what the west has to offer,” she said.

“Not only is this going to be a fantastic day out for everyone, but it is an opportunity to highlight and support some of the west’s amazing boutique food businesses and talented artists.”

Woodlea Project Director Matthew Dean is excited to see Flavour Fest grow to new heights in 2024.

“Flavour Fest is a much-loved and anticipated event in the Woodlea calendar.

We’re looking forward to welcoming some of Australia’s most esteemed musicians and hospitality businesses to Woodlea, and showcase everything our growing community has to offer,” he said.

CFA is encouraging brigades across the state to compete in this year’s CFA/ VFBV State Firefighter Championships in March.

Mooroopna Recreation Reserve will again be the site of the events, with the Urban Junior State Championships kicking off on March 16 and 17. The Senior Urban and Senior Rural events will be held the following weekend, March 23 and 24.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said the State Championships have a rich tradition and are an integral part of CFA. “The Championships are a great opportunity for our members to engage in some friendly competition with their brigade and fellow firefighters,” he said.

“It’s also a great way for the community to see what we do and hopefully we can inspire them to join their local brigades.

“I highly recommend brigades get involved in the event which includes practical firefighting activities utilising hoses, hydrants and other equipment.

It’s also fantastic for teamwork and comradeship.”

Hannah Logie from Strathmerton Fire Brigade has competed in the State Championships for the past eight years and says it’s a highlight of the year.

“I have been competing since I was 11 years old and my whole family has been involved over the years too,” she said.

“It’s a great event because you make friends, you get fit and most importantly, you have a good laugh... it’s the best fun.”

Interested brigades need to register

by February 16.

Details: vfbv.com.au

Guide to help schools, parents with kids’ school refusal Parents, carers and teachers in Melbourne’s west will now be better placed to pick up on early warning signs of school refusal, thanks to two new resources from youth mental health service Orygen.

School refusal is defined as “school non-attendance that parents and carers are aware of”, and is associated with severe emotional distress at the prospect of attending school.

Despite the limited data on exact school refusal rates, a 2023 parliamentary paper reports that the rate of school refusal rates grew by 50 per cent between 2018 and 2021.

Orygen workforce development and service 8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 February, 2024

implementation director Sian Lloyd was on the team that developed the toolkits and said the two resources are designed for clinicians and for schools.

The resources are titled ‘A Guide for Supporting School Attendance for schools, and ‘A Collaborative Approach To Supporting Young People Experiencing School Refusal.’

“Even though we have written both frameworks for those particular audiences, they are really helpful for parents and carers of young people,” she said.

Talking from personal experience, Ms Lloyd approached her school coordinator with the framework when she noticed one of her

teenagers beginning to display signs of school refusal.

“I started noticing things like not wanting to go in the morning, tummy aches and those sorts of excuses,” she said.

“So, I approached the school and said I have some concerns and here are some of the approaches we can take.”

“It was quite easy to put those things in place and my child’s experience was that their attendance improved and we didn’t have an issue anymore, but we also nipped it in the bud really early.”

Orygen chief of research translation Rosemary Purcell said there are several reasons

which could lead to school refusal including the start of the school year, new teachers, new classmates and schools.

“Children can have high anxiety and can feel overwhelmed in a classroom environment,” said Ms Lloyd.

The resources include a checklist of potential early warning signs including difficulty attending school after weekends and holidays, disrupted sleep cycles, tearfulness, clinginess and dawdling before school , feeling sick before school.

Details: https://ow.ly/KUTe50QwAWf. Jennifer Pittorino

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Cynthia sings with soul

By Liam McNally If you watched the first week of Australian Idol season 9 you may have noticed a homegrown talent woo judges with a touching soul performance.

She didn’t look it, but when the 19-year-old Cynthia Ragesh from Kurunjang stood before the judges - Amy Shark, Marcia Hines and Kyle Sandilands - she said she was “terrified”.

“I was actually sick and had tonsillitis for my audition and because of my song choice, I knew I had to hit that big note right off the bat which was incredibly nerve wracking,” she said.

“Just standing there in front of the judges on the Australian Idol logo will forever feel surreal to me.”

Cynthia prevailed over her nerves when she performed Something’s Got a Hold on Me

by Etta James, winning her a “yes” from all three judges, a Golden Ticket into the top 30 Australian Idol Contestants, and even a hug from Marcia.

Cynthia grew up in a very musical household. Which she said helped her develop a broad taste in music, but she has a particular connection to the Etta James track.

“My song choice had a bit of a double meaning,” she said.

“I have always been a lover of older music and particularly admire Etta James. She has such a unique powerful voice and was a Black woman making music at a time where racism and segregation were very much prevalent.

She inspires me so much to continue breaking barriers, especially with music.

“The second part of my reasoning behind my song choice being that when I was younger, my friend and I had watched the movie Burlesque and became instantly obsessed with the glitz and glamour of it all. The first song of

Cynthia Ragesh auditioning for Australian Idol. (provided)

the movie is a rendition of Something’s Got a Hold on Me sung by Christina Aguliera.”

Cynthia said getting the judges’ approval was an “insane” feeling.

“I honestly couldn’t believe it. My mum and I have watched these kinds of shows all throughout my childhood and adolescence and although I never said it out loud, I’d

always hoped it would be me on one of those stages one day,” she said.

“As a whole, auditioning for Australian Idol was such an amazing experience. I was surprised at how lovely and genuine all the people were.”

You can follow Cynthia’s Idol journey on channel 7 and 7plus.

NEWS

Warm Safe Home project Seniors Rights Victoria (SRV), a key service provided by the Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria has partnered with Housing for the Aged Action Group (HAAG) to revitalise the Warm Safe Home project.

The trio will actively work with other community groups and grassroots organisations to raise awareness of elder abuse, housing affordability, and other issues facing older Victorians, including those in Melton and Moorabool, in the lead up to World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) on June 15.

The Warm Safe Home project uses community art and the icon of the house to talk about older people’s right to feel safe and live free from fear.

Participating groups will be provided with a comprehensive Warm Safe Home toolkit and crafting templates to facilitate artistry, creation, and engagement in the months leading to WEAAD. Once completed, participating organisations will arrange to display the homes in public places in their local areas, on the WEAAD website and as part of a showcase awareness event that will be held at the Melbourne Town Hall on June 13.

Seniors Rights Victoria and COTA Victoria chief executive Chris Potaris said in situations of elder abuse, the home can become a place of danger.

“Raising awareness of the scourge that is elder abuse ahead of WEAAD is of utmost importance,” he said.

12649523-AV07-24

Tuesday, 6 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 9

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

starts First Nations woman is School on a high new head for WestCASA

Annette Vickery is the new CEO of WestCASA. (Damjan Janevski) 386561_01

population.

“The board has been really clear that they want to have confidence that we’re engaging with every community sector, and making sure everyone knows that the two kinds of service we provide. We provide the reduction of trauma for people impacted by sexual violence.

And we do education and capability building

in communities around around eliminating sexual violence.”

Ms Vickery said a particular focus of WestCASA’s education programs would be around consent saying she is “very keen to get into high schools, sporting groups, any kind of young adult groupings, getting in there and talking about what affirmative consent is.”

12666030-JB05-24

The Western Region Centre Against Sexual Assault (WestCASA) has a new chief executive, an important appointment for reasons beyond just the position itself.

Annette Vickery is the first Indigenous person to lead WestCASA or any other centre against sexual assault, the significance of which isn’t lost on her.

“It’s elevating First Nations women’s voices, particularly in an area where First Nations women over represented,” Ms Vickery said.

WestCASA is a community based not-for-profit sexual assault counselling service that both supports victim-survivors and runs education and training programs aimed at preventing it.

The service operates right across the western suburbs, an area Ms Vickery knows well.

“I’ve lived here for 22 years now, which, in western metropolitan terms makes me a blow-in still,” laughed the Sunshine resident who also spent three years in Melton while studying psychology and working as a reconciliation officer.

She also spent 10 years as chairperson of the Western Aboriginal regional Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee.

“I’ve worked in Koori courts. I worked for Victoria Police as the Aboriginal advisory unit manager, and I was the deputy CEO of the Victorian Aboriginal legal service for six years.

For two years, I was the CEO of Thirrili which is a suicide prevention organisation,” Given her own background, Ms Vickery is understandably keen to work with the Indigenous communities in the west, along with the region’s vast multicultural

It’s been an exciting start to the new school year for students living in Melton.

Three new schools opened their doors for the start of term one and two extra bus services are helping deliver students to school in Australia’s fastest growing municipality.

The new schools are Dharra Specialist School in Aintree with capacity for 148 students, Binap Primary School in Brookfield, which has capacity for 575 students, including 50 places for students with disability, and Yarrabing Secondary College in Aintree, which has capacity for 550 students.

As well as new schools, the state government announced two additional school bus services in the City of Melton.

The additional bus services will run to Springside West Secondary College and the new Yarrabing Secondary College.

Melton Mayor Kathy Majdlik said the additional schools and bus services increase accessibility to education for residents from some of Melton’s newest estates including Aintree, Thornhill Park and Rockbank.

“We will continue to represent the community to seek investment for more schools. We will also continue to advocate for a review of the existing bus network and the delivery of additional bus routes, so more residents have access to employment, education and Services,” she said.

Order now on aussietoysonline.com.au 10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 February, 2024

FEATURING ... SENIORS

Advertising feature

Live a full life unlimited at Lifestyle Communities At Lifestyle Communities, we believe in life without restrictions.

One with the freedom to do the things you love, and the confidence to be whoever you want to be. Where every new day is a fresh opportunity. It’s a philosophy that rings true, in our best-in-class homes and clubhouses.

Whether you’re working, semi-retired or retired, come and join a community where Life is Unlimited.

Join in on pickleball, croquet, yoga, arts and crafts, woodworking, bowls and swimming.

There are also happy hours, guest speakers,

musical entertainment and much more. Plus, you’ll have loads of new friends to enjoy all of this with and a beautiful home to live in.

The community is thoughtfully planned and designed making it easy to get around and enjoy.

Lifestyle Communities promotes a lifestyle that emphasizes freedom. The choice to do your thing, your way. Live independently whilst also enjoying a vibrant social life and a variety of recreational activities.

Buying a home at Lifestyle Communities means embracing a life where your horizons

are boundless.

With a host of activities and an abundance of new friendships waiting for you, your days will be filled with excitement and companionship.

Here, you are not just living, you are thriving, and it’s a testament to the limitless possibilities of a life unencumbered by restrictions.

Come and experience the freedom to be you, every day, in your new home at Lifestyle Communities.

Details: www.lifestylecommunities.com.au

Life. Unlimited.

Downsizer homes now selling.

lifestyle brookfield

By Lifestyle Communities®

12664732-FC06-24

1300 50 55 60 111- 139 Coburns Road, Brookfield

Tuesday, 6 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

‘‘

It’s something to be grateful for to see that it’s not going to die ... it’s very profound now in the community

’’

- Andrew Caihoang

Dragon and Lion Dancers at the St Albans Lunar New Year festival. (Supplied)

Celebrating Year of the Dragon February 10 is the first day of the 2024 Lunar New Year. Across the west Lunar New Year celebrations in Footscray, St Albans, Sunshine and Braybrook have grown into culture-spanning events that attract tens of thousands each year. Liam McNally spoke to some of the organisers behind these events to gain an understanding of their significance as we enter the Year of the Dragon.

T

hich Phuoc Tan remembers life as a boy in post-war Vietnam as hard, but during difficult times Tet festival, the Lunar New Year celebration, always brought people together.

He remembers a joyous energy – running around with the neighbourhood kids through air filled with the noise of music and firecrackers and smells of delicious food, seeing what treats and gifts they could collect amid crowds and colourful performers.

At just 11 years old, Thich was forced to flee Vietnam in a boat, a dangerous journey that saw him wanting for food and water and face three encounters with pirates while he was at sea for nine days.

In 1981, the year he came to Australia as a refugee, Thich took his Seminary Precepts with The Most Venerable Thich Phuoc Hue in Sydney in 1981.

Since 1997 The Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan has been the Abbot of the Quang Minh Temple in Braybrook.

In his role he said he takes great pride in continuing and sharing his religion and traditional Vietnamese culture through events like Lunar New Year.

“The role of my temple in our community is to preserve our faith, for sure, but I think more than half of our activity is cultural – to preserve what we have lost for the country,” he said. “I enjoy my role, but the responsibility is not small.

“The temple role is very important to keep people together and also harmonise the community.”

This Lunar New Year, on February 9, the Quang Minh Temple temple is expecting about 4,000 attendees.

12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 February, 2024

Mayor Cr Cuc Lam (middle), Peter Nguyen, Kim huong Nguyen, Minh truong Vice President, Duc Dung, Thuy Kim Le, Ven Thich Phuoc Tan, Binh le. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 381923_01

The festivities will get underway at about 6pm, with Lion and Dragon dancing performances, food, and midnight fireworks.

Thich said the entire community is invited to join.

It’s exciting, when you blend the atmosphere with the drums and you see the dragon and the firecrackers,” he said.

“We try to create what brings us joy and happiness when we think about home, back in Vietnam. We tried to create those for the next generation to come to enjoy.

“We welcome all to come and join in the New Year celebration with us.”

On February 10, we will enter the Year of the Dragon. Dragon is considered to be the most powerful animal in the Zodiac, and signifies strength. Year of the Dragon is considered a

good time for growth and boldly starting new things.

The dragon and lion dances are some of the most iconic traditions of Lunar New Year events, and have existed for thousands of years.

Andrew Caihoang began lion dancing through the Vietnamese Buddhist Youth Association at five years old, now with 22 years of experience he leads performances at events at the St Albans, Sunshine, Footscray, Quan Minhn Lunar New Year celebrations and many other events throughout the year.

His team of up to 40 volunteers undertake demanding training and conditioning to prepare for the performances which will include a team in a lion costume, alongside a “Happy Buddha” or monk, dancing to drums, gongs and cymbals.

“The music acts as a heartbeat of the lion,” he said. “Everyone in our team is very passionate about Lion Dance. So when we hear the drum… that’s what gets us fired up and motivated because we like to perform for the community.

“There’s a lot of cultural symbolism.

Lion Dance is believed to bring good luck, fortune and ward off evil spirits during its performances… and bring joy and happiness.”

Andrew said that he’s proud to be able to continue the Lion Dance tradition for both people that immigrated to Australia, and the wider community.

“A lot of people when they immigrated to Australia, they pretty much left everything they had behind, including some of their cultural traditions. I took a while for them to slowly adapt or bring those traditions over and for it to be accepted within Australia,” he said.

“It’s something to be grateful for to see that it’s not going to die, it won’t go away at this point,

it’s very profound now in the community… It’s a vibrant cultural performance that people are willing to enjoy and watch. So that’s something that I think we should all be grateful for.

“We’re all volunteers and to be able to continue doing what we’re passionate about without having the expectation or being rewarded is something that I feel quite proud of.”

Along with Lunar New Year’s Eve at Quang Minh, Andrew’s team will perform at the Lunar New Year celebration in Footscray Park on February 17 and 18, organised by the Vietnamese Community in Australia Victorian Chapter (VCA-VIC).

VCA-VIC president Duy Quang Nguyen has been helping to organise Lunar New Year events since he came to Australia in 1982.

Duy said Vietnamese community has been organising Lunar New Year celebrations in Australia since 1975, they started small in backyards, but the first major one was at Footscray Park in 1982, which attracted more than 50,000 people, so he is excited to be bringing it back there.

“Australia has become my country now, I have lived here for over 40 years – over two-thirds of my life, I love this country” he said.

“For the first few years I missed Vietnam very much, it takes time.

“We had to try to adapt with the new country and we tried to keep our culture and we try to pass it to our children… now Tet has become a part of the Australian multicultural [fabric].”

“We are proud of what we contribute to the Vietnamese community and the Australian community as a whole… now we are Australian so anything we do is for Australia.”

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMENT

Rhinos mud-dle through summer The rhinos at Werribee Open Range Zoo are beating the muggy heat this summer by wallowing in specially created mud baths on the Zoo’s savannah.

The crush of five rhinos is making the most of Melbourne’s mix of rain and heat by rolling, splashing and sitting in the mud, which is fantastic for their skin as it acts as a natural sunscreen.

Savannah keeper Debbie Jones said visitors touring through the 30-hectare savannah on the Zoo’s safari buses can observe the rhinos wallowing all together on hot-and-rainy days.

“Rhinos are very playful so they love to splash around, but when they find a comfortable spot in the mud wallow they can stay for hours basking in the sun and cooling themselves off,” she said.

“The mud also protects their skin from insects and stops it from drying out in the sun.”

The rhinos can often be seen wallowing alongside each other as they spend important bonding time.

“All of the rhinos wallow differently. Some of them are more playful than others and can get their whole body submerged in the mud, while others, like 17-year-old male Kifaru, are a little too big to roll all the way over,” Ms Jones said.

“We’re very lucky at Werribee Open Range Zoo to have enough space for five wallows, so the rhinos can bond by spending time together in the mud as they would do in

Rhinos wallowing at Werribee Range Zoo. (Pictures: Supplied)

the wild.”

There are fewer than 20,000 Southern White Rhinoceros remaining in the wild with populations under serious threat from illegal

poaching and habitat destruction. The species is classified as Near Threatened in the wild by the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List.

The rhinos at Werribee Open Range Zoo form part of a regional breeding program to maintain an insurance population in the fight against extinction.

Fibre Power!

Get your daily dose of regularity™

From

99 c per day

*

Unlock the secret to gut health and constipation relief with Sunraysia Prune Extract Helps relieve constipation naturally

More than 70 prunes in every jar

Helps promote gut health and improved digestion

Naturally rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals including potassium, dietary fibre, magnesium, Vitamin K, Boron and Sorbitol

Enjoy a teaspoon daily, or mix with any food, tea, yogurt or use in cooking

Sunraysia Prune Extract is a food and not a medicine

* for constipation relief

Scan now to save $5 star.sunraysiapruneextract.com 1800 778 637

12666701-AP06-24

Free from chemicals and one hundred percent natural

Tuesday, 6 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 13

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Maintenance starts on bridges The Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) will begin major proactive maintenance works on Pyrites Creek Bridges at Anthony’s Cutting on the Western Freeway on February 13.

The works will focus on the structural supports and road surface of the eastbound and westbound bridges.

During the works, the freeway will remain open to light and heavy vehicles, with traffic management and reduced speeds in place.

There will be bridge closures for up to five months from late March.

During the first of these closures, two westbound lanes of traffic will be maintained

on the freeway, with one eastbound lane available to traffic.

As works shift to the westbound lanes, the opposite will apply, with two lanes of eastbound traffic maintained and a single lane of westbound traffic available.

All over-sized and over-mass vehicles more than 2.55 metres wide will be detoured on the Old Western Highway. The project is expected to take up to six months and be completed by mid-2024, weather permitting.

Grampians and Barwon South West DTP executive director, Michael Bailey said the works were essential for the long-term future of the bridges.

“We’re being proactive in our improvement works on the Pyrites Creek Bridges, to ensure the strength of the bridges for years to come,” he said. “As western Victoria continues to grow, so too do traffic and freight volumes using the Western Freeway – these works will ensure that these structures can cater to those increased volumes.”

Since the bridges were built in 2012, higher-than-expected movement has been identified as part of the Department’s routine inspections.

By carrying out proactive maintenance now, we can ensure the bridge is safe for both current and increased volumes of traffic

in the future.

Mr Bailey urged drivers to plan ahead for their journeys.

“We would like to thank the local community for their patience while we undertake these important works. We would also like to remind drivers to slow down for our road workers,” he said.

The Western Freeway is a key freight route for agricultural industries to get their goods to market, as well as an important connection for commuters to jobs and services in Melbourne and Ballarat.

20,000 vehicles use this stretch of the Freeway every day including 2,900 heavy vehicles.

Reminder to slip, slop, slap

Country Pensioners Association secretary Neil Wathen. (Jacob Pattison) 385494_02

Grab yourself a cuppa and connect A Melton senior’s group is inviting more of the community to come and connect with new and old friends while enjoying weekly activities.

The Combined Pensioners Association Melton (CPA Melton) has been operating since 1989, but as 2024 gets underway, group president Lorna Pawley is keen to get more community members on board.

“The club provides a chance to meet new people and create new friendships that sometimes lead to meeting up on other days,” she said.

“Membership is open to any pensioner in the community, there is no age limit.

“Members are welcome to come and grab a cuppa and biscuit and sit and chat or get involved in any of the activities… The committee is also planning to have occasional trips.”

CPA Melton meets on Tuesdays and Fridays, the Tuesday meetings include a morning of activities including line dancing, pool, darts, cards and crafts from 9am to 11.30am, then an afternoon session from 1pm to 3pm with carpet

bowls, cards and crafts.

The Friday meeting includes the same morning program from 9am to 11.30am, and an afternoon bingo session. Bingo books are on sale from 1pm to 1.30pm at a cost of $2 per book.

The group operates out of the Melton Seniors and Learning Centre, 1 McKenzie Street, Melton.

Melton CPA has a $10 annual membership and $1 attendance fee per meeting.

Details: 9747 5200

With the new school year underway the state government is reminding students and parents across Victoria, including in Melton and Moorabool, of the importance of being sun smart in the schoolyard as UV levels reach record highs.

The back-to-school warning follows the release of new research that highlighted the major impact exposure to UV radiation during childhood can have on skin cancer risk.

Skin cancers including melanoma are preventable by using sun protection and educating children at a young age about the dangers of UV exposure and how to stay safe in the sun.

With the back to school routine in full swing, the advice to parents is clear on how to keep their children safe - teach them to apply their own sunscreen, so they know how to do it independently before and during school, attach sunscreen to their backpack, so it can be an easy reminder to reapply at school, label their child’s hat, so they can easily grab it before heading outdoors and encourage their child to look for shady spaces while outdoors.

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said Victoria’s lifesaving SunSmart program has been keeping children safe for 30 years.

“As the UV radiation increases, it is now more important than ever for kids to be taught and practice Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide,” she said.

from an outlet near you

12665596-AP06-24

It's FREE

14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 February, 2024

SCAN TO FIND YOUR OUTLET

starweekly.com.au/find-my-newspaper

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

Sewing courses

or without experience.

Whether you’re new to the world of sewing, or a seasoned amateur wanting to hone your skills, there’s a course available for you at Melton South Community Centre.

Discover how you can create and tailor your own garments and homewares and save money in the long-term. Tuesday or Thursday courses available. $30 or $20 concession. For information and enquiries, call the centre.

■ 9747 8576

■ Elaine Greenhall, 0418 171 119, or

Beauty treatment course Take some time for yourself and learn how to save money on expensive beauty treatments by doing them yourself. Melton South Community Centre’s pre-accredited four-week course (February 17 to March 16) is a perfect gateway to employment or further study, or you can simply use your new skills in the comfort of your own home. Topics covered include nails, waxing, makeup and more. $135 or $95 concession; some kits included. For information and enrolments, call the centre.

■ 9747 8576

0400 052 857

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Francis Acquah who was awarded an Australia Day honour for his work in medicine.

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

(Damjan Janevski) 385509_01

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

■ meltonrotary@gmail.com

Patisserie course

Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh

Learn how to create your own stylish and delicious pastries and desserts in Melton South Community Centre’s 6-week Intro to Patisserie course. This pre-accredited course is perfect for anyone wanting a new career, or even for home bakers wanting to enhance their skillset. Create your own breads, cakes, pastries and puddings and take them home to enjoy. Thursday or Saturday morning classes available. $90 or $70 concession. For information and enrolments, call the centre.

■ 9747 8576

Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh make reusable shopping bags from rescued fabric. They need people to cut, sew, iron and market our bags. The group meets on the first Sunday each month at Darley Neighbourhood House 2-5pm.

■ https://63ec55b8628d6.site123.me/

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

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

for coffee and chat nights and organised affordable outings and events.

■ 0406 493 734

Garden Club 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

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

Take weight off naturally

Zonta club meets

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

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

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

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

■ https://www.facebook.com/ groups/352071857283331

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

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

■ Helen, 0409 186 576

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

■ rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

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

■ Dianne, 9743 7446

The 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

Melton Friendship Group Join the Melton Friendship Group for singles 55 and older. Meet fortnightly

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

■ 0419 563 016

Melton 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

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

■ Jean, 0412 931 498

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park 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

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

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, 6 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15

SECTION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services Placing your classified advert is so easy...

We install All types of fences including Colorbond and paling fences.

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

Removal of old fence if required

Grow your business with

(include your name, address and phone number)

We accept payment by:

TRADES & SERVICES

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)

INTING SAIDA’S yPA Guaranteed

Cooling & Heating Services 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

Top Qualit EST. 2008

r mmercial • Interio • Domestic • CoHo vation no Re • es m w • Exterior • Nepa • Roof Painting • Plaster Re irs

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

REPAIR, SUPPLY AND INSTALLATIONS

V Garden Services

AMAZING GARDEN SERVICES

“Advertising in the local paper is an easy way for my business to reach the local community.”

- Bashyrr

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

Call Joe 0498 375 094 - 7 days V Painters/Decorators

SAIDA’S PAINTING Top Quality Guaranteed EST. 2008

• Domestic • Commercial • Interior • Exterior • New Homes • Renovation • Plaster Repairs • Roof Painting

0416 561 594 0403 610 782 gau.com www.saidaspaintin

Call for a Free Quote

AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING

12593192-AI10-23

12435708-LB03-20

Speak to our classified team and find out how easy it is to advertise. Start building your brand today and be seen every week in Network Classifieds Trades and Services.

V Air Conditioning

12642070-ET42-23

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

Lou’s Colorbond Fencing

From plumbers to pest control, carpet cleaning to building services, dry cleaning to computer repairs, lawn mowing and more, Network Classifieds has been connecting local businesses with the local community with our Trades and Services each week.

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

Deadline for all classifications is 1:30pm Monday.

Call Chris on 0401 230 861

12357251-LB28-17

V Fencing & Gates

12402755-RA44-18

V Trades Business Profile

12664534-SN05-24

V Deadline

0416 561 594 0403 610 782 www.saidaspainting.com

Call for a Free Quote

Find work locally in the

Evaps from

JAD COOLING AND HEATING $2800 0425 804 593 or 0425 876 176

Employment

Call 1300 666 808

section of Network Classifieds.

AU 21094 Lic 42666 jadhc@live.com.au 12640914-KO42-23

V Bathroom & Kitchens

V Carpenters

SAME DAY TV ANTENNA SERVICE

TD CARPENTRY

12420493-CG25-19

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

0488 816 557

Kitchens & Bathroom Renovations 12619650-JB29-23

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

Same Day TV Antenna Service

· 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.

EXTREME REBLOCKING The best Reblocking & Underpinning

Phone 0401 005 760 12499953-AV25-21

G6638978

• Full Insurance • Building permit supplied • Pump to be used • 100% Computer leveling • Since 1999

General Classifieds

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

8348 5441

V Reblocking/Underpinning

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

section of Network Classifieds.

Call Sam for a Free Quote

V Electricians

extremereblocking@outlook.com

9324 8575 or 0409 237 487

www.topedgekitchens.com.au MEMBER OF MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

V Bricklayers

Brimbank & North West Star Weekly

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly

Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Star Weekly

Maribyrnong & Hobsons Bay Star Weekly

AK BRICKLAYING All Types of Bricklaying Restoration Work ฀Brick Fences ฀Repair Work

Contact Adam 0422 250 675

• 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

Reg No 8659 12623993-ET31-23

0499 929 222 0401 013 153

Domestic, Commercial, Industrial - Home Security a Specialty 12418345-SN21-19

Free Onsite Quote Pensioner / Senior discount Local Technicians

12639993-HC41-23

V Antennas

Call Scott 0423 745 993 rec 21164

ADVERTISE UNTIL SOLD*

NICK’S RE-BLOCKING SERVICE

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

PH: 9360 5357 Mobile: 0412 378 193 Registered Building Practitioner

G6795050AA-dc29Apr 1132314-LB19-14

$

29 .00

• All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication.

• After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear.

• The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the PRICE of your item.

• Business advertisements, rental hire, pets & livestock and real estate are not included in the offer.

• The publisher reserves the right to decline any booking for the purpose of ongoing gain.

Wyndham Star Weekly Run my advert in:

Northern Star Weekly

2 papers - $7 extra 3 papers - $14 extra 4 papers - $21 extra 5 papers - $28 extra 6 papers - $35 extra

ADD A PHOTO FOR AN ADDITIONAL $8.00.

12593578-AV11-23

16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 February, 2024

SPORTS QUIZ 1. The Matildas were part of the longest World Cup penalty shootout in history against which team in the quarterfinals of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup? 2. And which player kicked the winning goal?

3. Who, in 2024, became the youngest darts player to throw a televised nine-darter?

4. NBA player Joel Embiid became just the ninth ever person to do what on January 22nd, 2024?

12. Which Collingwood father/daughter player recently departed the club for Carlton?

5. In which year did the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks win their first and only NRL premiership?

13. Cody Rhodes is the son of a famous wrestler known by what nickname?

6. Which two cities are scheduled to host the 2026 Winter Olympic Games?

14. Climate Pledge Arena is the home of which NHL team?

15. The San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs last faced off in the Super Bowl in which year?

7. The fan club known as the Carota Boys support which ATP tennis player?

8. Which Wests Tigers player’s contract was recently terminated?

16. Which English cricket player recently took nine wickets in his debut Test match against India?

9. How many times has Yuna Kim won the World Figure Skating Championships?

17. New York has how many major league sports franchise teams?

18. Australian darts player Simon Whitlock is known by what nickname?

10. In which Australian city is the sports venue 1573 Arena located?

19. Marcus Stoinis recently re-signed for the Melbourne Stars for how many years?

11. The 2024 Australian Open men’s final marks the first time since what year that, out of Novak Joel Embiid Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, none have featured?

20. Which A-League team does Bruno Fornaroli play for?

Yuna Kim

21. Prior to their 2024 test win in Australia, when did the West Indies previous win a test in this country?

26. In the Women’s National One Day Cricket Competition, what is the name of the team based in Canberra?

22. What are the name of the two conferences that make up the NFL?

27. Jack Silvagni plays for which AFL team?

28. Luc Longley will be joined by Horace Grant and which other former Chicago Bulls champion for an upcoming tour named No Bull?

23. Two-time Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka is from which country?

24. Which country recently won the Netball Nations Cup? 25. Who did the Socceroos beat in their recent Asian Cup Round of 16 match?

29. The Winter X Games are traditionally held in what famous American skiing town?

30. What was the nickname of the now defunct NBL team based in Geelong?

0902

1. France 2. Cortnee Vine 3. Luke Littler 4. Score 70 points in a single NBA game 5. 2016 6. Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo 7. Jannik Sinner 8. David Nofoaluma 9. Twice (2009, 2013) 10. Melbourne 11. 2005 12. Tarni Brown 13. American Dream (Dusty Rhodes) 14. Seattle Kraken 15. 2020 16. Tom Hartley 17. 11 18. The Wizard 19. Three 20. Melbourne Victory 21. 1997 22. AFC and NFC 23. Belarus 24. Australia 25. Indonesia 26. ACT Meteors 27. Carlton 28. Scottie Pippen 29. Aspen, Colorado 30. Supercats

Rainbow Club

Employment

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

12621309-AP29-23

Tree Lopping/Surgery

Andrew for a Free Quote 0421 836 152

Find it in the

Professional Services section of Network Classifieds.

General Classifieds

V

Positions Vacant

V

Pets & Services

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.

ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE 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

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

FARM HAND (Bacchus Marsh)

Trades & Services

$

CALL 1300 666 808

6cm (H) x 3cm (W)

Only 33.00

HR Licence preferred not essential.

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

Real Estate

CALL:

฀

฀

Motoring

section of Network Classifieds.

NEED

or email sales@networkclassifieds.com.au

Advertise with us and get better results

12666622-MS05-24

Advertise your GARAGE SALE here

Must have livestock experience in cattle & lambs and general farm duties.

12644936-SM44-23

DRESS

STREET AD

section of Network Classifieds.

Experienced person required for mixed farming operation in Parwan, which is 45 minutes west of Melbourne.

HAVING A CLEAN UP OR DECLUTTERING YOUR HOME?

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

Find your Local Professionals in our

Garage Sales

SUBURB

NEW STAFF?

Professional

DISCRIMINATION IN ADVERTISING IS UNLAWFUL

HC /HR TRUCK DRIVER (Bacchus Marsh)

12565959-HC35-22

V

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

Open 7 days 48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 0468 693 833

section of Network Classifieds.

V

$110/ 30mins

V

Massage Therapists

V

Wrecking

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

12321532-HM36-16

$BMM (FPSHF PS 4FC

V

SWA6566B

C1093409-JO39-13

LATIN ROOF RESTORATION

t 3FQBJST 3FTUPSBUJPO t $FNFOU 5FSSBDPUUB 5JMFT t )JHI 1SFTTVSF $MFBOJOH t 3FCFEEJOH 1PJOUJOH t "DSZMJD $PBU 4ZTUFN t $MFBO (VUUFST %PXOQJQFT t 'SFF RVPUF t ZFBS HVBSBOUFF

Adult Services

Employment

12666003-SN05-24

V

Roofing

12652832-AI48-23

V

General Classifieds

12423634-SN31-19

Trades & Services

LMCT 10268W

Fill your position online

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

www.networkclassifieds.com.au

0435 904 818

Buy & Sell in our

Motoring section of Network Classifieds.

Tuesday, 6 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

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

easy

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

3

1 5

4

Perjurers (5) Release (9) Heckles (7) Lever setting off a gun (7) Territory ruled by an Islamic monarch (7) Student (7) Not moving (9) Pig meat (4) Book ID (1,1,1,1) Release (9) Even now (7) Wetter in terms of weather (7) Doubter (7) Island in the North Atlantic (7) Relating to (9) Follow in order (5)

12 13 15 17 19 22 25 26 27 28 29

Common name for the USA (7) Deliverance from harm (9) Reckless (9) Locations (5) Horse’s call (5) Bony; gaunt (7) Mistakes (6) Exaction (9) Prerogative (9) Resent someone’s pleasure or good fortune (8) Distribute (food) (5,2) Beasts (7) Revulsion (6) Pursuing (5) Type of agave (5)

2

ACROSS 1 4 9 10 11

No. 171

3 4 5 6 7 8 14 15 16 18 20 21 23 24

DOWN Women’s underwear and nightwear (8)

1

DECODER

No. 171

6

7

8 4 1 8

7 2

3

1

6 3

6 4 9 1

QUICK CROSSWORD

3 4

2

7

8

5 hard

9 8

8 3

3 1

1 4 2

22

23

24

25

26

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

L

Today’s Aim: 8 words: Good 12 words: Very good

R

U

No. 171 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

7 2 5 7 8 5 ( '

ADAGE AFOOT AGENT AGILE ALIBI ALTAR AMEND APPAL BEECH CRASS DEALT DRAMA DRILY EDGED EVENT FETED GENIE GLIDE HERBS IGLOO ISSUE LADLE

4 LETTERS AIDE BLOW CLAY DEED DEER EGGS EYED IDEA MATS PALE RUGS SLEW STUN USED 5 LETTERS ABOUT

QUICK QUIZ

LEGAL LILAC LODGE LORRY MAGIC MELON METAL MIRES MOTIF MUTED NIECE OCEAN ORDER PUFFS REINS RINSE ROMAN SALAD SCENE SCREW SPANS STOWS

STYLE TIERS TOPIC UPPER YABBY

DENSEST EDDYING FORMULA KEENING

6 LETTERS COSIER NEEDLE REGARD STERE

8 LETTERS CLEANEST FORETELL LIKEWISE TORTURED

7 LETTERS COATING COMMUNE

1

In which Californian city is the sitcom The Big Bang Theory set?

7

Who said the famous quote, ‘float like a butterfly, sting like a bee’?

2

Which sea does the Rhine river drain into?

8

What is the hardest mineral on Earth?

3

The term microfibre refers to synthetic fibres of what size?

9

Pamela Isley is the real name of which enemy of Batman?

4

How many colours feature on the South African flag?

5

What character does Ellen Pompeo (pictured) play on Grey’s Anatomy?

6

Dried plums are commonly sold as what fruit?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

N D E D

E

A L A H R O S E E R S E

G A V

18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 February, 2024

No. 171

09-02-24

S

S

A

I

A S T

E

U

A

aria, aril, aura, aural, AURICULAR, carl, carr, curia, laic, lair, liar, lira, luau, racial, rail, rial, rural

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

E

C

3 LETTERS ACE ALE ARM BAN BET DOE EAR EAT EGG END ICE ION IRS LIE ODE POP RAW REV RIG ROE RUE TAB UFO USE

L

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

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

R S

21

H S

N

20

L R

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”.

R

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

L

10 11 12 13

X F

17 words: Excellent

hard

V

9

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

19

medium

G

8

9-LETTER WORD

easy

5x5

7

18

9 6 2 1

4

6

17

2

5

16

8

4

B UVD EMK P J G T X F

5

3

15

9 2 8

4 2 7

2

O A C WS R Z N Q I H L Y

7

2

14

1 9 2

WORDFIT

10 What is somnambulism more commonly known as?

ANSWERS: 1. Pasadena. 2. The North Sea. 3. Less than one denier per filament. 4. Six (black, blue, green, red, white, yellow).

5. Meredith Grey. 6. Prunes. 7. Muhammad Ali. 8. Diamond. 9. Poison Ivy. 10. Sleepwalking.

No. 171

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

SUDOKU

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

MOTOR

Qashqai is all grown up

By Chris Riley Once known as Dualis, Nissan’s small SUV the Qashqai has grown in size and stature over the years.

Sitting between the Juke and X-Trail in terms of size, the current, third generation Qashqai was launched in 2021.

It’s 60kg lighter than before, stands taller, longer and wider, and has a longer wheelbase -- and of course costs more.

That means more room for luggage, and more knee and leg room for rear seat passengers.

What’s not to like?

Styling The latest, third generation Qashqai comes in four grades: ST, ST+, ST-L and Ti, priced from $33,890 to $47,390.

They are all powered by the same turbocharged petrol engine, but will soon be joined by an e-Power hybrid model, priced from $51,590 -- $4200 more than the Ti. Premium paint adds $700, while five two-tone colour combinations options are also available.

Our test vehicle was the ST-L priced from $42,190.

Standard kit includes 19-inch wheels, combination cloth and artificial leather trim, two-zone climate control with rear air vents and an eight-way power-adjust driver’s seat with lumbar control.

The front seats are also heated and so is the steering wheel, but alas there’s cooling for the seats. That goes for all grades (Hello, Aussies do not need heating).

Other equipment includes push-button start, electronic park brake with auto hold, automatic lights and wipers, auto dimming mirror, auto folding door mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, auto-levelling adaptive LED headlights plus LED tail and daytime running lights.

Qashqai is covered by a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty with roadside assistance for the same period.

Service is due every 12 months or 15,000km.

Infotainment Infotainment consists of a large (for a vehicle this size) 12.3-inch touchscreen that supports Bluetooth, voice control, AM/FM and digital radio, satellite navigation, traffic sign recognition, wired Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay plus standard six-spear audio.

There’s wireless charging and USB A+C ports

Qashqai has grown in size and stature. (Pictures: Supplied)

in the front and back (rear are charge only) and 12 volt outlets in the front and luggage area.

Engines / transmissions The last time I drove Qashqai it was powered by a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine.

This time around our ST-L tester is powered by a 1.3 litre four cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that generates 110kW of power and 250Nm of torque, the latter from 1600-3750 rpm.

Drive is to the front wheels through a CVT-style automatic.

Safety Five-star safety includes seven airbags (front, side and curtain airbags, plus a centre airbag in the front) and a surround view monitor with moving object detection for parking.

Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car, Vulnerable Road User, Junction Assist and Backover) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and an advanced speed assistance system (SAS) are also standard.

Driving The transmission incorporates auto engine stop-start, with Standard, Sport and Eco drive modes plus steering wheel-mounted gear change paddles for accessing the seven steps or simulated gears.

A stiffer chassis and more sophisticated multi-link rear suspension promises better ride and handling.

Bonnet, doors and front guards are made of aluminium to save weight, while the tailgate is made from composites and saves 2.3kg.

With a 55-litre tank, fuel consumption is a

claimed 6.1L/100km and premium 95 unleaded is recommended.

The cabin feels more upmarket, is reasonably spacious and unexpectedly comfortable, and caters to our preference for cloth rather than sticky leather under our backside.

There’s 15mm more headroom, 28mm more knee room in the rear than before which helps to elevate the experience, with USB A + C charge ports provided for front and rear passengers.

The rear doors open almost 90 degrees, making it easier for parents to get kids in and out of car seats.

Bottle holders in the front doors are large enough to accommodate larger drink bottles.

The rear tailgate has grown a pointy ridge which in part explains the larger luggage capacity; 429 litres in this grade.

ST-L misses out on a full-blown digital instrument cluster, but the analogue dials are large and easy to read, with a small digital info panel between them for detail.

The touchscreen is easy to operate and you don’t need to go digging for the aircon controls, with real knobs at your fingertips.

The overall effect is snug and avoids the lit-up look of a Christmas tree that some cars have and will appeal to easily intimidated mature buyers.

Performance is perky, even a little livelier than we remember thanks to a bit more torque, but there’s an initial pause as the turbo spools up.

It’s a little disconcerting, especially when you’re trying to punch through a hole in the traffic, but apart from that Qashqai gets along pretty well and doesn’t use very much fuel.

In manual mode, in sixth or seventh gear, you can hit the accelerator and absolutely

nothing happens. It just sits there.

The low profile transmission lever is a snack to use as are the gear shift paddles.

For a CVT it’s surprisingly quiet and refined, avoiding the zoominess that plagued Nissan’s earlier efforts.

Some people could find the ride a bit firm, but it depends largely on the roads you travel.

Handling within the constraints of its target market is safe and predictable.

We were getting 7.2L/100km after close to 400km of mixed driving.

Summing up Qashqai is a solid offering that doesn’t want for much, especially in ST-L form.

Any shortcomings such as the turbo lag are not deal breakers, but can be irritating at times.

There will be many buyers looking to this car as a cheaper option than the X-Trail which continues to grow in size and price.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE ST 1.3L CVT, $33,890 ST+ 1.3L CVT, $37,890 ST+ 2-Tone 1.3L CVT, $38,390 ST-L 1.3L, $42,190 ST-L 2-Tone 1.3L, $42,690 Ti 1.3L, $47,390 Ti 2-Tone 1.3L, $47,890 Ti e-POWER, $51,590

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

Tuesday, 6 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 19

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Action from around the grounds It was another big weekend of sport in Melbourne’s west. Star Weekly photographer JACOB PATTISON was out there catching some of the action.

Daniel Sartori. 386770_06

Jack Brown. 386771_01

Kane Holden. 386774_01

Dan Schuppan. 386771_07

Tarique Jeffrey. 386776_08

Angelo Emmanuel. 386770_02

George Pritchard. 386773_07

Dulan Pabasara Waduge. 386776_01

Aamir Raza. 386773_01 20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 February, 2024

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

‘Buzzing to go’: Football dream becomes reality

By Harper Sercombe It’s been a fast moving 18 months for Western United’s Zach Lisolajski.

In 2022, the young-gun was playing state league 1 soccer with Sydenham Park and last year he represented Australia as part of the Young Socceroos squad at the Marbella Week of Football in Spain.

Now just last week he made his professional debut in United’s A-League Men’s clash against the Western Sydney Wanderers.

“Thursday after training I found out I was travelling [to Tasmania] and once I found that out I was buzzing because I’d never had that type of experience before of travelling with an A-League squad,” he said.

“Then it came to game day and I was just warming up on the side towards the end of the game and the boss [coach John Aloisi] told me to start getting warm and as soon as he told me that I got a bit nervous but I got a heap if energy go through me and I was buzzing to go on and make my senior debut.

“I had no idea it was going to happen, it was

just out of the blue he just turned around and said Zach warm up.”

Lisolajski. said it is something that he has dreamt of since he was a kid and his making his dream a reality has only increased his drive and motivation.

“I remember when I use to go and watch A-League games with my parents and they use to say to me ‘you could be on that pitch one day’ and I’d say back ‘I wish I could be on that pitch’ and now I’ve made my senior debut that dream has come true now it’s just about pushing harder and go higher,” he said.

“It’s just made me want to train even harder, and push even harder at training, push to get a lot more game time and push to get as far as I can.”

Lisolajski only came on for the final 15 minutes, replacing fellow young-gun Kane Vidmar, but said it was an unforgettable experience.

Western United academy mates of Lisolajski’s, Matthew Grimaldi and Jake Najdovski were introduced in the final 10 minutes as well, making it four of the 11

players that finished the game for United being from its academy.

“Getting on the pitch knowing you’re playing with some of the top players in the league and just moving the ball around,” he said.

“It’s a good opportunity for all of us, they’re all good players, good technique, so it’s good to move around on the pitch with them, it’s good to play with the academy boys.”

Lisolajski spent the 2022-23 season with the Newcastle Jets, learning the A-League system as part of the Jets academy.

With a season in an A-League environment under his belt, Lisolajski has switched clubs in the off season, moving closer to home and joining Western United on a youth development agreement.

He said the transition back to Melbourne’s west has been a great experience.

“I’ve found it really easy to move in, it’s a good coaching staff, a good bunch of boys they get around you,” he said. “They’ve welcomed me very well which has helped a lot especially at training.”

Zach Lisolajski. (Supplied)

Sports shorts Basketball Melton’s Ameir Major has been named in the under-18 women’s country team for the upcoming national basketball championships. Major was named in the 12 player squad that will compete in the tournament in Queensland in April.

Bowls Bacchus Marsh suffered a rare loss in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 2, section 1. Facing Keilor, Bacchus lost 84 (16)-74 (2). Glen Sargent was the only winning skip for Bacchus, winning 25-13. Bacchus remains on top of the ladder. In division 2, section 2, Melton was too good for Essendon 2, winning 90 (18)-62 (0). Melton remains on top of the ladder having been the standout team so far this season.

GDCA Luke Roberts.

(Jacob Pattison) 323330_03

Western Rams positive The Western Rams are full of life and excitement as they get set to embark into their first season in the Western Region Football League.

It’s been an off-season full of changes for the former Riddell District club, with coach Ash Pritchard also arriving at the club.

While Pritchard said he is aware of the club’s storied past which includes not winning a game since 2018, he is confident heading into 2024.

“I know it’s going to be a challenge,” he said.

“I’m totally aware of their past history being a local boy myself, so I’ve followed them for a fair while and watching their progression or lack of progression to be honest.

“We’ve been getting stuck into it and we’re looking pretty good in terms of numbers and getting our fitness base organised, so I’m really looking forward to it.”

Pritchard said numbers have been promising throughout pre-season with his players sharing his excitement into the club’s new beginnings.

“The boys are looking forward to it, going from the Riddell league to playing divisional football is going to be a change for everybody but they’re excited because what we need to do is basically change the narrative around the football club,” he said.

“I’m no world beater, I’ve been around

football my whole life, I’ve travelled around different states to get more experience, so I believe I could make a difference, what that difference may look like is yet to be seen but I’ve committed to it and I’m looking forward to it.

“I’m trying to teach them a different way of playing the game. I’m trying to get their mental capacity stronger and we’ve got to get used to winning, so it’s going to be a process.

“I believe they can do that, just looking at the guys I’ve got at training, there are some skilful kids there that I can work with. I look at the future as a bright thing and something to look forward to.

“We just need to change the narrative and the thought process of this particular club around the league, because the perception is that they are easy beats which obviously in the past they were but we’re going to stop that.”

The success of the Rams won’t be determined by where they finish on the ladder, Pritchard said, with his focus firmly set on seeing internal growth shoot through.

“I’m not going to put any win-loss ratios in place because that becomes unrealistic,” he said. “But I’m quietly confident with what I’ve seen and the skill level of some of the players that we do have. We can build a team around

that, and we will just stay positive.

We’re not going to win every game and we’re not going to lose every game. We’re just going to stay in the contest and keep moving with the times, look after each other and enjoy it hopefully.

“I wouldn’t believe that the boys would have had much fun in the past, so I want to make footy fun again for them. Something to look forward to going to, something to enjoy and spending time with their friends and winning games of footy.”

The Rams life in the WRFL is set to begin in a baptism of fire when the club takes to the field during round one against last seasons’ division 3 premiers, the Suns.

However, with a drought breaking and a famous piece of the club’s history to come with a win, Pritchard is hoping it can come sooner than later.

“I’m planning for that to happen in round one,” he said.

“We’re going to go into that prepared, we’re not going to be going into it questioning ourselves. We’ll see how it goes, we’re confident and we’re excited.”

Diggers Rest Bulla is again on the back foot in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association McIntyre Cup. The Burras won the toss and decided to bat. They were bowled out for 159 in the 55th over. Tristan Krizanic top scored with 33. Woodend got off to a good start with the bat and will resume at 2-77. In the Johnstone Shield, Aintree is on top against Riddell having made 364. Ali Asghar top scored with 109, while Jashanpreet Singh made 97.

Baseball It was a mixed Saturday for the North West Titans women’s sides on Saturday in Baseball Victoria metro north-west competition. The Titans Black team had a 0-0 draw with Preston, while the Orange team had a big 15-2 win against Mitchell Majors.

The Orange team sits in eighth spot, while the Black team is bottom.

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

Harper Sercombe Tuesday, 6 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 21

SPORT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

‘Stuck to the plan’: Lions back on winners list Some tight bowling backed up a solid batting display to guide Melton to its second win of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-west season.

Facing Strathmore in a bottom of the table clash, the Lions took plenty of confidence into day two on Saturday.

The Lions had made 204 on day one, bowled out with nine balls left in the day.

The Mores had the better start to day two and were cruising at 1-72.

The wickets started to fall and once they started they didn’t stop as the Mores were bowled out for just 122.

Lions coach Mitch Stephens said for them it was about sticking to the process and hoping things would turn their way.

“In the position they are in, we knew that things can turn pretty quickly once you get a couple of wickets,” he said.

“We got their second and third wicket and it calmed the nerves a little. We have though let sides get eight or nine down and then get away from us.

“We stuck to the bowling plan and targeted one side and were able to get the last couple few wickets.”

James Robertson in his first XI debut was the pick of the bowlers, taking 5-18.

Stpehens said Robertson really stuck to the bowling plan and was rewarded late.

“I’m rapt for him,” he said. “He came in form and winning form in the twos.

“He might have had a few nervous moments early on but once he got a couple of wickets he was away for us building in the areas we were talking about.”

Stephens said the most pleasing thing for him is the playing group is still driving the standards and wanting to get better.

He said it was what worked for them last season when they just missed out on finals and has remained a big focus this year.

The Lions remain second bottom on the table despite the win.

With four rounds remaining, Stephens said the focus was to continue to build on this result.

“Some more wins would give the group a bit of confidence heading into next year,” he said.

“The twos should play finals and we sent a couple of guys back to the twos to find some form.

“Dylan Jobsons took 13 wickets and Josh Luca made 75 and made strong cases to come back in. It makes us in better form.

“We have a pretty strong side in the twos and they won outright on the weekend.”

Tara Murray

Cassar’s knockout award

By Harper Sercombe Boxing devotee Jacob Cassar has etched another win to his record as he was awarded the Sunshine and Western Region Sports Club Don Deeble Sports Star Award.

Cassar was named the winner for the 2023 award, after being selected from the 10 monthly nominees. He received $5000 for winning the award.

Soccer star Alana Cortellino and basketball young-gun Jack Inella finished joint runners up and were awarded $2500 each.

Amid nine other incredible athletes Cassar said it was incredible to win the award, which has only provided him with more motivation to work hard.

“I couldn’t believe it, it was amazing, all these incredible athletes, it’s an honour,” he said.

“It makes me feel good, but it makes me want to train harder, and definitely improve.

“There are heaps of great athletes here and it was very eye opening for me to see how hard everyone trains. It goes to show the quality of athletes we have.”

Cassar is taking the boxing world by storm, currently, the 17-year-old has an untarnished record with 28 wins coming from his 28 bouts.

His last fight was representing Australia in the USA at the RIP City Fall Classic, where he brought back a belt for his country.

As a featherweight he is ranked number one in Australia and the Commonwealth in his age group and 16th in the world.

In 2022 Cassar was selected as the best male boxer of the tournament in the under-19 Australian Championships. Cassar was selected in the 2019-2023 Victorian Futures team by state coach Marcos Amado and was subsequently selected into the Australian Institute of Sport under-19s and emerging squad by the current Australian coach, Jamie Pittman.

The Taylors Lakes resident is currently captain of the Victorian boxing team and spent time throughout last year at the Queensland Institute of Sport with the Australian team preparing for the 2024 Pacific Games as a qualifying event for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Unfortunately for Cassar, he was overlooked for the Australian Olympic team due to his young age.

Cassar said while he eventually wants to turn pro, his goal is firmly set on representing his country at the highest level first.

“I’d love to go to the Commonwealth Games and Olympics, that’s my dream,” he said.

“It would mean everything, that’s my dream, that’s the goal.

“Definitely after that I would love to go pro and hopefully become world champion.”

With boxing being a sport that is constantly requiring travel and much of it falls on the athlete’s dime, Cassar said the $5000 he received for the award will go a long way.

22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 February, 2024

Rhys Berry (Jacob Pattison)372628_02

Lions sneak home and still eyeing finals Darley pulled off a dramatic run chase against Brown Hill in the Ballarat Cricket Association on Saturday to keep its finals hopes alive.

Needing 128 for victory, the Lions’ run chase wasn’t an easy one on day two of the match.

In trouble at 5-27 the Lions needed to dig deep.

The wickets continued to fall with the Lions slipping to 7-52 and staring down the barrel of a defeat.

Drew Locke joined Axel Morton at the crease and the pair started the fight back.

They got the side to within nine runs of victory when Morton lost his wicket.

Locke and Madushanka Ekanayaka were able to do enough to get the Lions over the line.

The innings finished at 9-143 when Locke, who came in at number nine, fell for a well made 71.

The Lions remain in sixth spot, sitting nine points outside the top four with three rounds remaining.

Meanwhile, a Daniel Lalor century wasn’t enough for Bacchus Marsh to get over the line against Golden Point.

Lalor, who was playing only his third match of the season, gave his side a shot at chasing down the 8-299 that Golden Point made on day one of the match.

The Bulls were in trouble at 2-6 and then 3-25 and then again at 6-94.

Lalor stayed steady in the middle and brought up his 100. Once he hit triple figures he lifted his run rate.

His last 56 runs came off just 24 balls as he made a massive 156.

He would be the last wicket to fall, with the Bulls finishing 9-258. Bradley Croxford was the only other batter to make an impact, making 41 not out at number 10.

The Bulls sit in seventh spot after 12 rounds with four wins.

Darley this round faces NapoleonsSebastopol and Bacchus Marsh takes on Buninyong, with both matches two-dayers.

Jacob Cassar.

“Travelling, training expenses, it’ll definitely help so much, I’m so grateful,” he said.

“I struggle to get a fight in Victoria so I’m always travelling. I’m off next week to Canberra so it’ll help.

“There’s another tournament later next month, king of the ring, so [the money] will definitely help then.”

The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers.

If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact wrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.

Lions get second win of the season.

Melton got its second win for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association women’s division season on Sunday.

Having had a women’s team for a number of years, the Lions had been without one since the 2018-19 season.

The Lions rebooted their team for this season under the guidance of former player Kareena Jacobsen-Logan who has been a playing-coach this season.

Jacobsen-Logan said the return of women’s cricket to Melton has been fantastic.

“It’s been amazing having the women’s team at Melton, the club has been really supportive and helpful,” she said.

“We had about five players that had played together previously, we have roughly 20 girls registered and have been rotating selections based on availability, so the same team hasn’t been playing together the whole season.

“We have been a little unlucky with the washouts and cancelled games being against

more levelled competition, having to play the top two teams twice has been a little confidence shaking but the girls have learnt a lot by playing top quality teams.”

The Lions faced Point Cook on Sunday, winning their second game for the year against the bottom placed side.

The Lions won the toss and decided to bat at Saltwater Reserve, posting a score of 7-136 from their 20 overs. The Lions were clinical with ball in hand, defending their total easily with Point Cook only managing 9-66 from their 20 overs.

“The girls really came together and played as a team,” Jacobsen-Logan said. “Every player is contributing to the wins, which was evident on Sunday.”

While it has been a successful return for the Lions, Jacobsen-Logan said the club is always on the lookout for more players.

“We are always looking to recruit, we have recruited two girls just this week, with only

two games left for the season,” she said.

“We have a couple of young ones that are learning from the older girls and Gavin Boon has been assisting with specialist training which has been developing the girls skills really well.”

With recruitment a priority for the Lions, Jacobsen-Logan said the signs from the current crop are promising.

“All the girls seem super keen to come back next year, so we are definitely hoping to build the skills, confidence and team bond to be more competitive next season,” she said.

The Lions sit seventh on the ladder.

The Lions play Williamstown CYMS on Sunday, before finishing their season against Aberfeldie.

In other matches, Caroline Springs suffered a rare loss to Westmeadows.

Harper Sercombe Amy Hibbert is one of Melton’s stars. (Supplied)

Storm stay in second

By Harper Sercombe Despite a disappointing first day with the bat, Sydenham Hillside bowled its way to victory against St Albans on Saturday in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division.

Last week the Storm were dismissed for 129, however after a good start with the ball in the late afternoon on day one continued on Saturday as the Saints were knocked over for just 98.

“We were a bit disappointed with our batting performance in week one of the game, so we were pretty determined to take some wickets at the end of day one which we managed to do, which was great to be able to take some momentum into day two,” coach Warren Hackney said.

“Then on Saturday starting off day two, it was really important to make it hard for them to score and to get some early wickets and thankfully the bowlers did an excellent job building pressure until their batters cracked and it was nice to see it seal the win before the tea break.”

The Storm’s best bowlers were Stefon King, 3-34 off 19 overs, which included nine maidens. Shehan Wedikkara, 4-8 and Benjamin Green, 2-7 both also had an impact.

“King opened the bowling, and he bowled fantastic all day from one end, and then Ben and Shehan were also very good at the other end and got a few wickets between them,” Hackney said.

“It could end up being a really important win for our season really because if we lost they were looking to jump above us but as it turns out we’ve now put some space between us and them on the ladder, so it was a really important win.”

The Storm was then presented with another opportunity to bat to attempt an outright victory, while it didn’t eventuate Hackney said it was good to get some extra time in the middle into his side’s top order.

Opening batsman Deakyn McIntyre, was dismissed for just three in the first innings and made a 52 not out in the second dig.

“It was a case of shutting out the game but also getting some quality batting time in as well, and a great opportunity for Deakyn so it was nice to see him get a 50,” he said.

Next week the Storm face the undefeated Deer Park, in a two-day Saturday-Sunday clash, which is set to be a true test heading into finals.

Even though the Storm are sitting in a strong spot in second, Hackney said he is cautious of taking anything for granted heading into

Stefon King (Ljubica Vrankovic)

the final three rounds of the home and away season.

“Deer Park are the runaway leader and flag favourites so it’s going to be great to have a look at them up close and see if we can find a way to bring them down,” he said.

“We’re in a good position at the moment,

but the next few weeks are going to be hugely important, we’re not a certainty to play finals and we don’t take anything for granted, we’ve just got to try and bank the wins that we need to lock our position in the top four and then hopefully if we can do that, the aim is to try to finish as high up as possible.”

Leaping ahead Queensland champ Leap To Fame ticked another box in a career destined for greatness with a big Grand Circuit victory on foreign soil in Saturday night’s SENTrack A G Hunter Cup. The megastar five-year-old backed up his Inter Dominion triumph from mid-December with a bold front-running display in the $500,000 time-honoured feature at Melton.

The result took the son of Bettors Delight’s earnings past $2 million and his career record to 32 wins from 42 starts.

“I’ve been in the sport a long time and it’s taken a long time to get to some of these great races, but I’m so pleased to finally have a horse that can do what he’s doing,” trainer-driver Grant Dixon said in the moments after his first Hunter Cup success.

“It’s great to have the ride with Kevin and Kay (Seymour) because obviously they have been in the sport a long time too and they’ve entrusted me with this horse.”

Dixon bided his time from a wide front row draw, but eventually put the pressure on early leader Catch A Wave and strode to the front shortly after the winning post the first time. He then controlled the race from the top and shot for home into the straight, gripping on to defeat New Zealand raider Dont Stop Dreaming by 1.6m.

“I thought he (Catch A Wave) would be happy to sit on me and he didn’t try to hold me out too much,” Dixon said.

“We kicked along at a reasonable pace, and I was just pleased he was able to hold on.”

Kevin Seymour was on-track to witness the victory, telling Gareth Hall “you can’t imagine what a thrill it would be” to win Victoria’s premier pacing event.

“It’s a great journey,” he said.

“At our age, almost touching 84 which is a bit long in the tooth, but we’ve been waiting the entire time we’ve been in the sport to get a nice Australian-bred horse.

“We had Mr Feelgood, but it was a little bit different.

“I have got to pay tribute to my partner, Peter O’Shea. He’s a thorough gentleman and you could not ask for a better partner.”

Tim O’Connor Tuesday, 6 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

NEW HOME 21 SQUARES $786K NO STAMP DUTY

BACCHUS MARSH

VILLA 130 | $786,000 – Epping Design Spacious Living – Quality Fittings

New Display Now Open ONLY 45 MINS TO MELBOURNE CBD

3

2

1

2

21 Squares and well appointed kitchen Three large bedrooms plus study Vibrant, social and secure environment Resort style facilities & onsite management

Talk to Denise Sniegowski

0455 910 793

New 2 and 3 bedroom homes from $509,000 12652584-AI06-24

168 Underbank Boulevard, Bacchus Marsh

Sole agents for Country Club Living

FREECALL 1800 633 672