Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 13th February 2024 by Star Weekly

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proudly serving Melton and Moorabool

13 FEBRUARY, 2024

Lakeside comes alive Lake Caroline was bursting with energy over the weekend for the annual Lakeside Alive festival. On February 10 attendees were treated to a full day of entertainment that included roving performers, a wide range of tasty treats and great live music before finishing with a bang with fireworks over the water. From 12.30pm to 8.30pm families enjoyed a free, fun-filled day while taking leisurely strolls around Lake Caroline. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said Lakeside Alive is a jam-packed day that creates amazing memories for families. “Lakeside Alive combines the great outdoors with free entertainment and delicious food. It’s the perfect way for the family to spend a Saturday afternoon,“ she said.

■ To check out more photos from the day, turn to page 14

Young dancers performing at Lakeside Alive 2024. (Shawn Smits)

‘Children’s safety’ fears By Liam McNally Sydenham MP Natalie Hutchins made a speech in parliament on February 8 calling on Melton council to improve safety infrastructure around a Caroline Springs school precinct. Ms Hutchins said the school day “begins and ends with a fear for children’s safety” among students, parents and teachers who attend the education precinct along Becca Way and Lancefield Drive “due to a lack of traffic management and poor planning at the drop-off and pick-up zones in this area”. The area is home to multiple schools including primary, secondary, a kindergarten

and maternal and child health centre. “Melton council have made a few small improvements; however, I have heard from many parents and staff at the local schools that the zones are ineffective,” she said. Caron Sanni has a son at Springside Primary School and said she’s concerned about traffic safety in the area. “My seven-year-old son confidently rides his bike to school, however, I’m always fearful something will happen to him because of the dangerous traffic flow issues,” she said. “So far, the council hasn’t been doing enough to take the safety of our children seriously.” Ms Hutchins said she has visited the site both during drop off in the morning and in

the afternoon for pick up. “I am extremely concerned with the number of near misses and poor traffic flow,“ she said. “I have written to council on multiple occasions, outlining the school community’s concerns and requests for larger and clearer signage and urgent upgrades to improve safety. “Additionally, I believe that this area would benefit from dedicated zones along Becca Way for drop off and pick up, coloured pavement treatment and fencing or barriers at the Oakview Parade intersection that discourages unsupervised crossing.“ Melton council Engineering and Asset Services acting manager Matthew

Hutchinson said council officers met with schools and community representatives late last year to discuss parking and traffic issues in the education precinct. “A number of improvements have been identified and will be considered as part of council’s budget process,” he said. “Officers will keep the schools and community representatives informed on progress.” Meanwhile, Ms Hutchins said she would continue to “call on Melton council to deliver better safety infrastructure in the area”. “The school community really does need urgent and proactive action. We must work together to find a solution before a serious, fatal incident occurs.”

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RED HOT SPECIALS

$ Australian Red Seedless Grapes

Australian Yellow or White Nectarines

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Woodstock & Cola 12% 4 Pack or Cruiser Double Black 6.8% 4 Pack

Australian Premium Beef Mince (minimum 1.25kg buy)

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Weekly specials available Wednesday 14/02/24 until Tuesday 20/02/24 or while stocks last. Pictures used for illustration purposes only. While stocks last. Retail quantities only. No trade supplied. All prices include GST where applicable. Some products or varieties may not be available at all stores. IGA Liquor supports the responsible service of alcohol. Tobacco and alcohol not sold to under 18’s. We reserve the right to correct printing errors.

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

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Melton 331-345 High St, 9743 4600

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Weekly Specials available Wednesday 14/02/24 until Tuesday 20/02/24 or while stocks last. Market Day Specials available Friday 16/02/24 only. Pictures used for illustration purposes only. While stocks last. Retail quantities only. No trade supplied. All prices include GST where applicable. Some products or varieties may not be available at all stores. IGA Liquor supports the responsible service of alcohol. Tobacco and alcohol not sold to under 18’s. We reserve the right to correct printing errors.

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THE LITERALLY BREATHTAKING BIT

Hit the open road and into the loving embrace of Mother Nature. Hike, climb, crawl (or drive, we won’t judge) your way to the top. The view will take your breath away in more ways than one. Get lost in breathtaking places like Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park.

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FAMILY LAWYER

Senior Family Lawyer Bachelor of Law with a focus on family law and dispute resolution. Member of the Law Institute of Victoria. Natasha is committed to delivering effective legal solutions, support, and advice with compassionate consideration of family law matters. 33 Bakery Square, Melton • Phone: 5332 1584

MYCOmmunity president Ema Corro. (Damjan Janevski) 366362_01

www.saineslucas.com.au

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• Financial Agreements • Child Support • Children and parenting issues • De facto financial settlements• Divorce •Family law property disputes and settlements Natasha Papaelia

Festival a mush-see An entire mycelium of experts will spread the spores of fungal knowledge at the 2024 Moorabool Mushroom Festival. The annual event is due to return to the Bacchus Marsh Town Hall across March 24 and 25, and will celebrate all things fungi. The program includes workshops, art, a social event, a market and more than 24 talks covering topics such as ecology, citizen-science, cultivation, foraging, food, medicine, mycoremediation and mycomaterials. The festival is hosted by MYCOmmunity, a not-for-profit community organisation that aims to increase public awareness about fungi and the vital role they play in the ecosystem, for health and environmental sustainability. The non-profit event will put proceeds from the festival into event costs, to next year’s festival or to local citizen science projects such as monitoring fungi in Wombat Forest. MYCOmmunity president Ema Corro said the event has talks and workshops to

What goes in each bin Food organics garden organics Food scraps and garden clippings only. Remove stickers from fruit.

Yes

Animated Peter Rabbit Soft Plush Toy 22cm

$15.00 Order now on aussietoysonline.com.au

Not in any bin: Electronic waste or power cords, batteries of any kind, chemicals or hazardous waste, building waste, soil or rubble. Scan the QR code to find out what goes where.

For a full list visit melton.vic.gov.au/wasteaz

Recycling

Landfill waste

Items must be loose when placed in the bin. Do not put them in plastic bags. Flatten boxes to save space

Use this bin only for items that can’t be reused or recycled. Avoid food waste in this bin wherever possible.

Yes Fruit and vegetable scraps Meat, seafood, bones, egg shells Leaves, plants, twigs, grass, weeds

Accepted plastic bottles and containers Aluminium and steel tins, cans, foil Glass bottles & jars

Yes Cardboard, cereal boxes, egg cartons Paper, magazines, newspapers, paper envelopes

Broken glassware, crockery and mirrors Nappies, wet wipes, kitty litter, animal droppings

Old clothing, shoes or textiles that can’t be repaired or donated Loose jar lids and bottle caps,pumps, sprays, droppers

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Out of date, inedible food Coffee grounds, loose leaf tea Dairy products including yoghurt

Peter Rabbit

suit everyone. “Anything from total beginner to fungi fanatic,” she said. “I love the opportunity to learn more about fungi from all the different speakers and participants. I also really enjoy seeing the community get together. Ms Corro said she’s particularly excited for book launches at the festival including Mushroom Magic: an Illustrated Introduction to Fantastic Fungi by Sapphire McMullan-Fisher, as well as MYCOmmunity’s pocket guide to fungi of the Melbourne region. “I’m also really looking forward to hearing Justine Karst who is a mycologist from the US who has done some important research on mycorrhizal fungi,” she said. “We’re also really excited to be presenting the results from some of our own local research in Wombat Forest at the event. This includes an environmental DNA study on the effects of storm damage on soil fungi.” Details: https://myco.org.au/fungi-festival/

No Plastic, including biodegradable or certified compostable plastics, coffee pods, tea bags, kitty litter, animal droppings, large branches, tree stumps, liquids, nappies, wet wipes.

No Plastic bags, other soft plastics, clothing, shoes, textiles, coated or waxed cardboard, electronic waste and batteries, crockery, polystyrene (styrofoam).

No Electronic waste and batteries, food and garden waste, household chemicals, recyclable items, soil, building materials.

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 5

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Over 50? Join us for Lifestyle Woodlea’s

Clubhouse Launch

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Tour the brand new, stateof-the art Clubhouse and see everything

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When Thursday 29th February, 6pm - 8pm

Where Lifestyle Woodlea, Enter via Jubilee Road, Aintree 3336

has to offer.

RSVP is essential to secure your spot

Call 1300 50 55 60 or scan the QR code to RSVP.

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

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Hopetoun Park expansion plans By Liam McNally A new development is expected for Hopetoun Park that would see it grow by 62 hectares and nearly double its population, following a rezoning greenlight from Moorabool council. At a council meeting on Wednesday, February 7, a Planning Scheme Amendment came before council to rezone 62 hectares of land from farming to neighbourhood residential. The development area, which council has called Hopetoun Park North, is immediately

north of the current Hopetoun Park, bordered by the Western Highway to its north, Hopetoun Park Road to the east, and the natural escarpment to the west. The proposed future development would provide for about 1200 residents and include about 400 lots to be comprised of 1500sqm lots around the periphery of the site, and 800sqm lots within, significant native vegetation to be protected in reserves, active open space, up to 6ha of conservation reserve, an area identified for local activity and retail centre land for a kindergarten, community centre and Maternal

Child Health Centre and a drainage reserve of approximately 0.9ha. More than $10 million will be provided in developer contributions. In its current form, existing land uses are limited to cropping, and some grazing and equine activities. There are two rural dwellings located within the site and identified areas of remnant native vegetation. The land is held by three owners, however the proponent of the rezoning holds the vast majority, 58 ha of the developable land. To progress the Planning Scheme

Amendment for Hopetoun Park North, Council is required to seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning to prepare and exhibit the amendment. Following state government authorisation, a period of public exhibition will be undertaken. Relevant residents, landowners and the wider community will be invited to make submissions to Council on the proposed amendment. A report will be brought to Council following public exhibition and Council will be able request a planning panel to consider any unresolved submissions.

Funding for local sports Six Melton sporting organisations have received a funding boost through the state government’s Sporting Club Grant program. The program provides grants of $1000 to $5000 to grassroots clubs and organisations to address barriers in participation, develop safe and sustainable practices and build social and active local communities. United ITF Taekwondo Australia received $2000 from the funding pool, which president and 8th Dan Black Belt Master instructor Michael Muleta said will go towards an ITF umpire course for Black Belts, instructors and volunteer members as well as a self defence workshop in Melton. “It is always nice to get a little assistance, as it increases the opportunities for those to participate where they may otherwise be restricted financially, particularly in today’s economic environment,” he said. “[The umpire course will make us] able to increase our organisation’s pool of

internationally accredited and skilled referees and judges for all championships moving forwards.” Mr Muleta has a 35 year history teaching taekwondo in Melton, beginning with Thoroughbred Taekwon-Do, which he opened in 1990. It grew into the core of the United ITF Taekwondo Australia Inc, which is the national organisation representing the International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) and consists of schools across Australia and New Zealand. Mr Muleta said there is a huge few months coming up for the organisation including the umpire course, the self defence masterclass, the 4th Global Open Taekwon-Do Championships the 6th ITF Hall of Fame ceremony, and a donation drive for taekwondo uniforms that will be delivered to students in Nepal. Other recipients of the Sporting Club Grants include Melton Padres Softball Club, Melton Stars, Spartans Basketball Club, and the Melton Rugby Union Club.

United ITF Taekwondo Australia Inc president Michael Muleta. (Damjan Janevski) 387626_04

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Tuesday, 13 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 7

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

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NEWS

Briefs

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Alleged baby-killer charged A 29-year-old Hillside man has been charged with the murder of an infant boy in Werribee last month. On Thursday, police charged the man with the murder and child homicide of a baby boy found at a Werribee property on January 19. Paramedics responded to reports of an unresponsive at baby at about 4am and then transported the infant boy to hospital where he died the following morning. The death was determined to be suspicious following a post mortem. While the parties involved in the incident are known to each other, the man is not the biological father of the child.

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Maddingley carjacking EDITORIAL

The Picnic by Justine McAllister. (Supplied)

GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES westeditorial@starweekly.com.au

New artwork unveiled

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

The latest artwork to be displayed on the windows of Caroline Springs Gallery has been unveiled. The new season’s artwork on display at the gallery at Caroline Springs Library and Learning Hub celebrates Melton’s diverse community. The Picnic by Justine McAllister represents the municipality’s multicultural and diverse community enjoying all the activities that are on offer in the city. It is designed to show how each member of the community contributes to making the Melton a great place to live, work and play. The artwork stretches across seven windows and portrays a large communal picnic in an ode to the values of connection, inclusivity and recreation that bind people together. Justine McAllister, represented by Eddie

Zammit, is a west Melbourne-based artist and has been creating large-scale murals for display in public places for more than 10 years. “In my work, I celebrate Melton’s diversity through a communal picnic, embracing all ages, orientations, cultures, and abilities for joyful connection and inclusivity,” she said. Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the artwork is a beautiful celebration of our community and shows why we embrace the diversity that makes the City of Melton such a special place to live. “Justine’s artwork brilliantly captures the connections we feel to our community and those around us,“ she said. “I’d encourage everyone to stop and enjoy the display on the windows, but also take the opportunity to explore the exhibitions inside the gallery.’’ Details: www.melton.vic.gov.au/thepicnic

Police are appealing for public assistance following a carjacking in Maddingley last month. The victim was standing next to his vehicle on Griffith Street when an unknown man ran towards him and assaulted him from behind at about 10.15pm on January 19. The man then took off in the victim’s vehicle, which had the engine running. The victim, a 24-year-old Bacchus Marsh man, was not injured. The vehicle, a white Toyota Hilux bearing registration PROCTR, was recovered by police on January 20 abandoned on Bald Hill, Darley. The offender is described as having a medium build wearing dark pants and a dark hooded jumper. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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13 February 2024

STAY INFORMED

Mayor’s message Cr Kathy Majdlik

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

Each year Melton City Council prepares a pre-budget submission to the state and federal governments outlining our key infrastructure and service priorities.

Win a $100 voucher

Our City is Australia’s fastest growing municipality. Home to 205,867 residents in 2023, our population is expected to reach 440,142 within 30 years.

Kinder sessions

From February until April, Council will be running a green bin inspection program for homes across the municipality.

Come along and explore your local kindergarten as part of Kinder Readiness month.

The inspection will give residents information on how to sort organic waste correctly.

Parents and carers can meet teachers, ask questions and attend information sessions to better inform enrolment decisions.

Thank You

Inspected bins will receive a tag. A special ‘Thank You’ tag means residents have been entered into a monthly draw to win one of four $100 eGift cards.

Next year’s applications open on Wednesday, 20 March.

Sons of the West get active A popular health and fitness program is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Sons of the West, open to men aged 18 and over who live and work in the City of Melton, is a 10-week program delivered in partnership with Council and the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation.

Your child must be four years old by 30 April the year your child attends kindergarten to be eligible for a funded four-year-old place.

Participants meet for two hours to discuss health related topics and take part in group-based exercise.

Registrations for 2024 are still open, and weekly allocations have commenced. Some centres are already full, but others across the municipality still have vacancies.

Each group provides options based on level of intensity, catering for all fitness levels. To register and find out more, visit melton.vic.gov.au/sonsofthewest

Find out more: melton.vic.gov.au/ kindergartens

Watts Ward with Cr Justine Farrugia I hope everyone is refreshed and had a fantastic break with family and friends over the holiday period. A series of major road projects are underway, or scheduled to start during 2024, across our City, including the duplication of Hume Drive between Gourlay Road and Calder Park Drive, Taylors Hill. Work to duplicate the existing two lanes along Hume Drive to four started in December. This project will greatly improve traffic flow and boost safety for local road users. You can find out more about this project by visiting

conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/ humedrive for updates. Council’s Taylors Road Corridor Upgrade Plan covers a series of projects designed to improve road connectivity and safety on one of the busiest roads in our City. One of these projects will see the replacement of the roundabout at the intersection of Taylors and Gourlay Roads, Caroline Springs, with traffic lights. That project is in the design phase and you can visit melton.vic.gov.au/ taylorsroadupgrade for more information.

Finally, the Plumpton Aquatic and Wellness Centre, which will deliver a state-of-the-art facility for our community, is one step closer after Council acquired a 3.6-hectare parcel of land on Beattys Road in Fraser Rise. The design and masterplanning process for the aquatic centre is underway, and as part of that process, Council will soon be seeking your feedback on how the centre should look. Feel free to contact me about Watts Ward or Council related issues on 0475 907 616 or email at justine. farrugia@melton.vic.gov.au

Budget submissions give us the opportunity to help shape service and infrastructure investment, advocate for key projects, and ensure our community has strong foundations on which to grow. Key priority projects for Council include the Plumpton Wellness and Aquatic Centre and the Cobblebank Community Services Hub. Council has also called on state and federal governments to invest in land acquisition for the Western Intermodal Freight Terminal, upgrade the Western Freeway from Melton to Deer Park and several key intersections. I encourage all residents to keep up with our upcoming projects and advocacy priorities via our website. Valentine’s Day isn’t the only celebration taking place on 14 February. Library Lover’s Day celebrates bookworms, librarians and our valuable community hubs. Our libraries at Melton and Caroline Springs coordinate activities for a raft of age groups, cultural backgrounds and walks of life. Visit the library from 12-16 February to grab special colouring and activity sheets. Teens can also join in a fun Library Lover’s Day “Crafternoon” from 3.30pm on 14 February. You can find out more at libraryevents. melton.vic.gov.au You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.

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

Deputy Mayor Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Lara Carli

Cr Justine Farrugia

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all 10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 13 February, 2024

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

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Mayor Cr Kathy Majdlik

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Mooroolbool rate cap quandary By Liam McNally Moorabool council has deferred deciding whether to apply for a variation on the state government’s 2024-25 rate increase cap of 2.75 per cent. The government announced in December a 2.75 per cent rate cap that it said was based on the Essential Services Commission’s recommendation and is equal to the forecast Consumer Price Index for 2024-25. During a Moorabool council meeting on February 7 councillors discussed whether to apply for a variation to the cap. While the council officer recommendation

was not to apply for a rate cap increase, chief executive Derrek Madden said the constraint had a “significant impact” on council. “We haven’t prepared a budget on the basis of a revenue increase but it does have a significant impact on future years because for the last three to four years, CPI has been running well above where the cap is,” he said. Councillor Tom Sullivan moved to defer the decision as council does not need to notify the state government of its intention until March 31. “It’s not that I’m advocating that we increase it but I’d like to know the full implication of

the decision,” he said. Councillor Paul Tatchell hit out at the Fair Go Rates system as a whole, however he favoured council deciding on the night to go along with the rate cap. “The Fair Go Rates system has been a crock of proverbial since it arrived… all it really did was shift the focus back on the council,” he said. “Whilst it’s not ideal, I’m saying that we don’t apply for an increase regardless. What we need to do is we need to live within our means, so that we can then show where the cost shift is between local government and state government rather than confusing the punters

by saying ‘we need to put the rates up’.” Councillor Tonia Dudzik also voted against the deferral and backed the officer recommendation. “Council staff have actually run the figures and said that it’s possible for us to operate without applying for right cap variation… at the end of the day, we’re here for residents who don’t want their rates excessively raised,” she said. The deferral passed with the supporting votes of councillors Ward, Edwards, Sullivan and Mayor Ally Munari. No councillors directly stated council should increase the rate cap.

Wanders a taste of west Eat Drink Westside is here to satisfy the western suburbs’ growing appetite for good food and wine. Eat Drink Westside is a unique collaboration with Melbourne’s western region councils and the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (MFWF). The much loved feature of the MFWF shines a light on the west’s enviable gastronomic heritage and diverse food culture. The 2024 program includes a total of 19 events involving 46 venues in Melton, Hobson’s Bay, Maribyrnong, Brimbank, Wyndham and Moonee Valley. Part of Eat Drink Westside, Westside Wanders are a special series of 12 moveable feasts or Wanders across Melbourne’s west. Each Wander takes intimate groups of food lovers to three venues, with a MFWF host leading a mini tour and stopping for a bite, a drink or a snack at each spot.

The Wanders are similar to a progressive dinner, with a short walk between spots, celebrating the eating and drinking culture of the neighbourhood. Well-known food-media personalities will host each event. Melton will host two local Wanders, one on March 20 that will visit Simply Indian, Centre Thai and Latin Foods & Wines, and one on March 21 that will hit Caroline Springs restaurants Izumi Japanese, Zuya African BBQ and Fancy Things. Western Melbourne Tourism chair Scott Chapman it is a wonderful opportunity to be working with the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival in developing the Eat Drink Westside program, to showcase the food and hospitality culture that defines our region. Tickets are now on sale. Details: https://www.melbournefoodand wine.com.au/event-series/eat-drink-westside/

Step into the world of culinary delights at SalamaTea in Sunshine on March 19. (Supplied)

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Crackdown on machete laws The state government will crackdown on organised crime and how machetes are classified – as part of new laws to boost police powers on illegal firearms and weapon sales. Introduced into Parliament on February 7, the Firearms and Control of Weapons (Machetes) Amendment Bill 2024 will amend the Control of Weapons Act 1990 to ensure that there is no doubt that a machete is a controlled weapon. By clarifying the definition of a controlled weapon, the legal status of machetes will be absolutely clear – they cannot be possessed,

carried, or used without a lawful excuse or sold to anyone under the age of 18. There have been multiple alleged crimes involving machetes in the last year, including an alleged affray at Watergardens in which 13 teens were charged, including three from the Melton LGA and nine machetes were found. THere was also a home invasion last April in Melton South during which a 31-year-old man was slashed in the face by a machete, and an alleged affray between teenagers at Woodgrove shopping centre last month in which a machete was seized. While machetes are frequently used

for legitimate and lawful purposes, such as clearing food crops, gardening and maintaining trails - the state government hopes that clarifying to traders that machetes are controlled weapons and proof of age must be checked before sale will help police ensure machetes don’t end up in the hands of minors. The penalty for carrying a controlled weapon with an unlawful excuse is a fine of more than $23,000 or a jail term of one year. It is an offence for a person to sell a controlled weapon to any person under

18, with a fine of up to $3,846. It is also an offence for a child to purchase a controlled weapon, with a fine of up to $2,308. Separately, the Bill will amend existing laws to make it easier for police to serve a firearm prohibition order (FPO) on a person. Currently FPOs must be served in person which can prove difficult where a person is avoiding police. Minister for Police Anthony Carbines said the Bill makes it clear that a machete is a weapon and not a tool to be sold to a minor – reducing the risk of them ending up in the hands of someone under 18.

House price growth ‘soft’

Sri Durga Temple Holi Festival organisers Rishi Prabhakar and Gurpreet Verma. (Damjan Janevski) 387735_01

Temple’s colourful celebration Sri Durga Temple in Deanside is welcoming the community to attend its Holi Festival event on March 31. Holi is a vibrant and joyous Hindu festival celebrated predominantly in India and Nepal, but it has gained popularity in many other parts of the world. Also known as the “Festival of Colours”, Holi usually falls in March, marking the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Sri Durga Temple secretary Rishi Prabhakar said attending Sri Durga Temple Holi Festival event can be a vibrant and memorable experience filled with colours, music, food, and

community spirit. “Guests can expect to immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of the Holi festival, where they’ll have the opportunity to play with colours, smear vibrant powders on friends and strangers, and participate in joyous celebrations. They should come prepared to get covered in colourful hues from head to toe,” he said. “Sri Durga Temple Holi Festival event will feature cultural performances such as traditional music, dance, and theatrical presentations related to Holi and other aspects of Hindu culture.

“Guests can enjoy the lively performances while learning about the cultural significance of the festival. “Overall, guests attending Sri Durga Temple’s Holi Festival event can expect a joyful and inclusive celebration of colour, culture, and community, where they can create lasting memories and celebrate the spirit of Holi with friends and family.” The festival will take place from 11am to 5pm. Sri Durga, Australia’s largest Hindu Durga Mata temple, is located at 705-715 Neale Rd, Deanside.

Dwelling prices in the west are increasing slower than anywhere else in Melbourne, according to the latest data from CoreLogic. Median dwelling prices in the west Melbourne statistical area, which comprises Brimbank, Melton-Bacchus Marsh, Wyndham, Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay, increased by 0.8 per cent in the past 12 months. The greater Melbourne median increase was 3.9 per cent with the outer east increasing most in the city at 6.9 per cent. The national median increase was 8.7 per cent. CoreLogic research director Tim Lawless said west Melbourne’s median dwelling value of $664,519 is the second lowest median dwelling value across the sub-regions of Melbourne, after Melbourne-Inner, where the median is weighed down by a large proportion of units. “The softest growth conditions over the past 12 months have been centred within the regions with lower dwelling values, a trend that has been evident broadly across Greater Melbourne over the past 12 month period, where lower quartile dwelling values have risen by a smaller amount relative to the upper quartile of the market,” he said. “Across Melbourne, the quarter of the market with the lowest dwelling values were up 2.5 per cent over the year compared with a 4.4 per cent gain in values across the upper quartile. “Despite ongoing cost of living pressures, high interest rates, low consumer sentiment and affordability constraints, homes are still selling. Housing demand has been buoyed by high migration, but also tight rental markets that have probably incentivised renters to transition towards home ownership if they can afford to do so.”

‘Critical north-south corridor’ still waiting for review Melton council is still waiting on the state government to review the “critical north-south corridor” of Calder Park Drive, Westwood Drive and Palmers Road so it can be declared a state arterial road. About 12 months ago Melton council wrote to multiple MPs requesting “urgent and formal declaration” as a state arterial road and a commitment to “immediately upgrade the corridor as a matter of priority”. At the time, Melton council was under the impression that the roads had been identified

as a future arterial road, meaning upgrades would become the responsibility of state government instead of council. The state government said the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) would look to review the Palmers Road corridor to determine whether it’s suitable to declare some sections as an arterial road. A year later, the review has not begun, and when asked by Star Weekly, the DTP indicated it was still planned but did not specify when it would begin. A section of the south of the Western

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

Freeway is already a state-owned road, and the government has committed to delivering road widening and intersection upgrades over an 8 km section there, along with the the removal of the Robinsons Road and Calder Park Drive level crossings. The state government will also consider duplication north of the Western Freeway and construction of the Calder Park Drive freeway interchange in the future. Melton council City Futures director Sam Romaszko said council wants an upgraded road network to improve liveability, productivity and safety for residents.

“Calder Park Drive, Westwood Drive and Robinsons Road form a critical road corridor that connects to major highways and freeways,” she said. “Traffic modelling indicates that Westwood Drive, Calder Park Drive and Robinsons Road carry more than 30,500 vehicles each day, with this number expected to rise to 38,500 by 2031. “The Palmers Road corridor will improve quality of life, road safety and attract commercial investment into an important employment precinct.” Liam McNally

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Giving young people new hope Young people are the hidden story of the housing crisis, according to an annual report from leading Melton youth homelessness service Hope Street. According to the report young people make up 25 per cent of the homeless population in Victoria. Australia wide 37.4 per cent of people experiencing homelessness are under the age of 24, including children. In Victoria youth homelessness rose 29 per cent in a decade. Hope Street chief executive Donna Bennet said this is an unacceptable social situation in Australia.

“Victoria’s commitment to crisis response services with Hope Street provides a nation leading response, but the impact could be greater with a bold federal government youth housing reform and national legislation with dedicated resourcing to address youth homelessness,” she said. The annual report details how the hidden crisis of child and youth homelessness is primarily experienced by young people couch surfing and living in overcrowded dwellings after family violence, extreme disadvantage and poverty.

A lack of affordable housing available to young people trying to enter the rental market has meant that front-line service responses are seeing a 150 per cent growth rate in homelessness for people under 24. Hope Street provides a successful first response youth service for young people and young families who need a safe place with specialist and responsive assistance in Melton, and is currently planning on expanding it into Whittlesea. The construction of state of the art therapeutically designed service in Whittlesea

is expected to be completed in mid-2024 pending further support from the federal government. Ms Bennet said the life-long impact of homelessness on a young person is reduced by early intervention support services and improved access to sustainable housing. “We need reform that is enshrined in legislation that protects vulnerable young people. This situation has not occurred overnight, this is the result of decades of neglect on social policy direction that has failed young people experiencing disadvantage.”

Ten years of wellbeing The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation has celebrated 10 years of its leading Sons of the West (SOTW) health and wellbeing program and its now taking registrations for 2024. SOTW is a free 10-week program facilitated by the foundation in partnership with local councils and community health services across Victoria. The program is aimed at men aged 18 and above, and strives to empower men to make their health and wellbeing a priority by giving them the tools and knowledge. Since its inception, over 5000 men have been inspired and educated, with the program delivered across 27 suburbs in the West including Melton and Fraser Rise. Bulldogs chief executive Ameet Bains said program has significant benefits for physical health, mental health and a real sense of connection and belonging to those who participate.

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Brett Patriekos said participating in SOTW was one of the best decisions he’s ever made. “I really enjoyed the program – what it taught us around being men in today’s society and the role that we play was a key take away,” he said. “The exercise routines were great … and just the comradery, and learning more about community really made it a great program” Bulldogs player Buku Khamis said being involved in the program has in turn had a positive impact on his footy. “I’ve learnt how important it is to open up about your mental health – we all suffer at times, especially as men. Overall, it’s a great way to interact as well.” SOTW is on at Cobblebank stadium, weekly from Tuesday, March 5 to May 14 from 10am to noon and Fraser Rise Children’s and Community Centre, from Wednesday, March 6 to May 15, 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Details: melton.vic.gov.au/sonsofthewest

Bulldogs players Bailey Dale and Buku Khamis at the SOTW 10th anniversary launch. (Supplied)

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Facility along with Westmeade Hospital. He completed a postgraduate in Germany with Professor Aidi Palti and also completed an implant and implant crowns course with Assoc Prof Stephen Chen and Dr Tony Dickinson. Dr Crawford also performs many surgical extractions, as well as implant surgery, fillings, crowns, bridges, veneers, inlays and onlays under general anaesthetics in hospital facilities. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and children and making memories at their beach house. To book an appointment with Bill contact Main Street Dental Practice on 5367 5355.

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12668179-ET07-24

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

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU Lakeside Alive returned to Lake Caroline on February 10 for a free, fun-filled day of food and entertainment. Photographer SHAWN SMITS was there to document the celebrations.

Lake Caroline comes alive

The warm weather made a perfect day for strolling around the lake.

Families enjoyed the magical entertainment.

A lakeside dancer leaps into the air.

The Kiddie Korner provided hours of enjoyment.

All manner of street performers impressed crowds on the day.

Performers brought the shoreline to life.

Fireworks ended the event with a bang.

Roaming performers brought magic to the day.

The day included no shortage of tasty treats.

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

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NEWS

MY PLACE Mollie van der Linden is a Melton South teenager who was named Melton council’s 2024 Young Citizen of the Year for her volunteer work with Specialist Hoops - a basketball program that works to get kids and adults with physical and intellectual disabilities involved in the sport in Melton and Bacchus Marsh. She spoke to Star Weekly about her connection to the area. Tell us a bit about you and what you do? I am currently studying year 11 at Staughton College. I’m a basketball coach for Wolfpack Basketball and Specialist Hoops Basketball, as-well as a representative player for Bacchus Marsh Under 18 Girls. Aside all of this, I play basketball for Melton Under 18 domestic for Wolfpack and Bacchus Marsh Panthers Under 19 domestic. Tell us about your work with Specialist Hoops? At Specialist Hoops I particularly help out with the senior group but will also lend a hand if the junior group needs help. I run short interval activities with the senior group which includes shooting, passing, dribbling and even some mini matches. Tell us about the Young Citizen of the Year award, how did it feel to be recognised? I received the Young Citizen of The Year Award of 2024 for my contribution to Specialist Hoops Basketball. I was very honoured to be receiving this award and very surprised to be nominated by Emily Attard and Specialist Hoops. It feels amazing to be recognised for the work I do for the community. I am currently in my fifth year of volunteering for this amazing organisation.

What do you like about where you live? I like how it has developed into a multicultural suburb with people all around the world coming to live here as their forever home. What, if anything, would you change about where you live? I personally believe that there is nothing that needs to be changed about Melton as it’s a loving community. Where is your favourite local place to spend time? I like to spend my free time at Cobblebank Basketball Stadium, my weeks involve either coaching basketball or playing basketball and I spend the majority of my free time at the basketball stadium. Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. It surprises people when I say that I’m studying to become a sport physiotherapist. Is there anything else you’d like to say? I would like to say thank you to Emily Attard and Specialist Hoops Basketball for giving me many opportunities to become who I am today.

What’s your connection to Melton? I have lived in Melton for the last 15 years and I love what the community offers including MacPherson Park, Melton Waves and basketball stadiums. Mollie van der Linden. (Provided)

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COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Terrarium workshop Create your own unique living centrepiece in Melton South Community Centre’s upcoming Terrarium workshop. Students attending on Saturday, February 24 from 10am to 11.30am will discover how to create an indoor botanical feature under the expert guidance of a qualified horticulturalist. $70 or $65 concession, everything is provided. For enquiries and enrolments, call the centre. ■ 9747 8576

Beginner cake decorating course Those new to the world of baking are invited to sign up for Melton South Community Centre’s four-week Beginners Cake Decorating course. Create your own sponge cake and discover how to decorate it using fondant and buttercream, with the opportunity to practice your new skills on cupcakes. $145 or $140 concession. For enquiries and enrolments, call the centre. ■ 9747 8576

Men’s Fella-Ship The free Men’s Fella-Ship social group returns to Melton South Community Centre for 2024, meeting each Wednesday at 1pm. Men of all ages are invited to come along for a cuppa, a chat and the opportunity to make new friends. No bookings required. For more information, call the centre. ■ 9747 8576

This week’s photographer’s choice is Street dance crew Kihmo Quintela and Giuliano Hammal. (Damjan Janevski) 386998_01

guest speakers and participate in activities including carpet bowls, pool or table tennis. ■ meltonmensgroup.home.blog

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Melton South Knit & Natter

Melton Trauma Teddies

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

Melton 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

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

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 Bridge Club

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park

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

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

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

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

Community singing group 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

U3A Melton

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

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

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

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

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

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

Garden Club 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

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

1 4 6 1

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

4 7 3 5

6 7

6 9 3

1 9 2 4

ACROSS

DOWN

Chic (6) Structure in C programming language (6) Cad (5) Accept reluctantly (9) Russian guitar-like instrument (9) Gods (5) Middle (6) Scheme (4) Pig meat (4) Uniform (6) Beautiful maiden in Muslim paradise (5) Putting others need above their own (9) Heights (9) Seabird excrement (5) Guarantee (6) Rests (6)

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

No. 172

Sexual abstinence (8) Nose like a beak (8) Relating to the stars (7) Coaching (7) Result (6) Blood-sucking African fly (6) Hire-car (4) Even-tempered (7) Reasons (7) Inscribe to (8) Tropical storms (8) Hint (7) Against the law (7) Group of words (6) Fancy hotel rooms (6) Waistband (4)

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

DECODER

No. 172

4 2 1 7

QUICK CROSSWORD

6 8

1 8

5 9 4 hard

9 8

1 6 7 8 4 1 8

8 7 2

10 11 12 13

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

F V T P ZW DM L H X K F B 23

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

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

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

No. 172 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

E E P

O R N E

S P A T S W I D O W A L O N E

' , 7 + ( 5 ( '

AFOOT ALIEN ALONE ANGEL ATLAS AVAIL CARAT CARGO CHEAP CITED COLON CORDS DEALT DEEDS EDGER EERIE EGGED ICONS IMPLY LAGER LEERY LODGE

4 LETTERS AGES ALLY CASE CASK DEEP IDLE MESH PARE POOR RUSE SLEW STEP TOUR YENS 5 LETTERS ADAGE ADORE

QUICK QUIZ

MANOR NAIVE OCEAN PALED PEEVE POETS PROSE PURRS RAISE RESTS ROGUE ROUGE ROUSE SAUTE SLEET SLIDE SMALL STEEP STONY STREW SWAPS TACOS

Which prime minister committed Australia to the Vietnam War?

Is a rhea a bird, a flower or a type of scarf?

Amy Poehler (pictured) starred as mid-level, small town bureaucrat Leslie Knope in which US sitcom?

Which Australian-British author created the character Mary Poppins?

Is croup typically experienced by children or the elderly?

Referring to the explosive, TNT is an abbreviation of what?

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

No. 172

TAPES TEETH TENET TERSE

SOLDIER TEAPOTS TOILETS

6 LETTERS EASELS RASCAL SEDATE SENATE

8 LETTERS DESOLATE DISPLACE DITHERED ENDORSED

7 LETTERS DOLLIES GENTILE RAUCOUS

16-02-24

alacrity, apical, atypic, atypical, capita, capital, carat, carl, carp, carpal, cart, city, clap, clarity, clay, clip, crypt, lacy, laic, lyric, pact, PARALYTIC, pica, piracy, racial, racy, rapacity, talc, typical

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

3 LETTERS ALE ASH ASK ATE EAT EGO EVE GEL HIM ILL IRE LIE MRS ORE OUR OVA SAT SEA SEE SUE UFO VAT WED YES

S O

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

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

29 words: Excellent

hard

medium

9-LETTER WORD

easy

5x5

1 4

3 2

A GU J R IOQN S E Y C

7 9 9 8 2

WORDFIT

Who played Sheldon Cooper on The Big Bang Theory?

In the board game Risk, which continent is worth the most?

The classic children’s character Paddington Bear was said to be a migrant from what country?

10 What is put inside a chicken breast to create the dish chicken kiev?

ANSWERS: 1. Robert Menzies 2. A bird 3. Parks and Recreation 4. P. L. Travers 5. Children 6. Trinitrotoluene 7. Jim Parsons 8. Asia 9. Peru 10. Garlic and butter

No. 172

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

SUDOKU

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

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SPORTS QUIZ 1. Jakara Anthony won a gold medal for which sport at the 2022 Olympic Winter Games? 2. Which three players have defeated Daniil Medvedev in an Australian Open final?

3. In February, which stadium will host the first WWE event in Australia since 2018?

11. A napkin used by which soccer superstar will be auctioned off in March?

4. Battledore was an early forerunner of which modern game?

12. Matildas coach Tony Gustavsson is from which country?

5. Sydney Swans coach John Longmire played for which VFL/AFL club from 1988-99?

13. Which cricketer won the 2024 Allan Border Medal?

6. Is a cricket ball or baseball larger?

14. And which cricketer the 2024 Belinda Clark Medal?

7. British athlete Sky Brown is the youngest professional in the world in which sport?

15. In what year was the NRL’s Dally M Medal first awarded?

20.How many times has an Asian country hosted the Summer Olympic Games?

16. The Iron Claw is a 2023 biographical movie about a family involved in which sport?

21. In what year did the Australian Baseball League begin?

17. In what year did Mike Tyson have his last professional fight?

22.Which former WWE wrestler had their acting debut in the movie The Marine?

8. A badminton player must be the first to score how many points, with a two-point lead, in order to win?

18. Jürgen Klopp is the outgoing manager of which English Premier league club?

9. The 2005 film The Greatest Game Ever Played centres on which sport?

Mike Tyson

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19. How many teams will compete for the 2024 Formula One World Championship?

10. Which AFLW club does Darcy Vescio play for?

25.The term ‘deke’ is most commonly used in which sport? 26.And what does it mean? 27. How many NBL championships does Melbourne United have? 28.MLB team the Tampa Bay Rays were previously known as what?

23.Tennis player Dylan Alcott recently appeared on which Stan TV show?

29. How many years are there in between each Ashes series? 30.Former footballer Dani Laidley played for which two AFL clubs?

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The Camry Hybrid is a class act By Chris Riley Before discussing the Camry Hybrid, it should be pointed out that you can’t actually buy one right now. With a two-year waiting list due to production delays, Toyota Australia has been forced to “pause“ orders for Camry hybrid variants due to extraordinary demand. A new ninth generation Camry was unveiled in the United States in November, so it will be interesting to see how Toyota plays this one. At some point it will have to switch from production of the current model to the new one. Toyota reveals 90 per cent of Camry sales are now the hybrid. This may result in a different specification and/or different price point at the time of delivery.

Styling Sitting long and low, the current model was face-lifted in early 2021, at which point the hybrid became an option for all four grades. The face-lifted model features stronger front-end styling and enhanced safety features, including Toyota Connected Services. Externally, the entry-level Ascent has undergone an extensive transformation at the front end with redesigned bumper and upper and lower grille that features distinctive horizontal bars that offer a more refined aesthetic. Ascent Sport, SX and SL grades received wide flared side fins and a lower spoiler that stretches the width of the car, giving it a wide planted stance while the honeycomb grille mesh adds to its sporty flair. New design wheels ranging from 17- to 19-inch in size were also introduced, SX featuring a black sports finish Prices for Camry kick off at $30,990 for the 2.5-litre petrol Ascent. The Ascent Hybrid is $2500 more at $33,490. Ascent Sport Hybrid is $36,290, SX Hybrid is $39,190 and SL Hybrid is $46,990 – all before on-road costs. Eight bold colours are available, while premium paint adds $575. Our test vehicle was the well-equipped, top of the line SX finished in blue mica metallic, which at $46,990 represents excellent value for money. Entry level Ascent comes with alloy wheels, cloth trim and manual air conditioning, LED lights, with keyless smart entry and start plus two-zone climate control for hybrid models. Ascent Sport gains satellite navigation, while the sporty SX scores sports front seats, 19-inch alloys, sports suspension, paddle shifters and leather-accented trim. SL features heated and cooled front seats, power adjustment for the driver and front passenger seat, with memory and power lumbar adjustment for the driver, electric boot opening, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and a panoramic sunroof. There’s also adaptive cruise control, auto high beam, LED daytime lights, auto lights and wipers, and front and rear parking sensors. A redesigned centre console incorporates a larger standalone 9.0-inch touchscreen that now sits higher above the air vents for easier access and better visibility. SL adds head-up display which projects information on the lower area of the windscreen. Camry is covered by the five-year warranty, with capped-price servicing for the first five years/75,000km with each 12-month/15,000km service costing $220.

Infotainment All models feature the latest generation multimedia system with AM/FM and DAB+ radio, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto (wired) compatibility and myToyota apps including Waze and Stitcher (IOS) and WebEx (Android). Ascent Sport adds satellite navigation with enhanced voice recognition with the SL model delivering superb sound reproduction through a nine-speaker premium JBL audio system.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Camry Ascent: $34,320 Camry Ascent Hybrid: $36,820 Camry Ascent Sport Hybrid: $39,620 Camry SX Hybrid: $43,020 Camry SL Hybrid: $50,320 SPECIFICATIONS Toyota Camry SL 2.5-litre hybrid petrol-electric four-door sedan

Access to Toyota Connected Services is complimentary for three years. There are two USB-C charge ports in the rear and a USB-A port in the front console as well as a 12V/120W power accessory socket.

Engines / transmissions The 160kW 2.5-litre hybrid powertrain is now offered across the range and accounts for 90 per cent of sales. The hybrid system employs a 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine that works in seamless combination with a pair of electric motor generators. Torque is rated as 221Nm which is oddly slightly less than the figure provided for the petrol engine on its own. Petrol Ascent has a conventional eight-speed conventional auto, while the hybrid is equipped with a CVT-style continuously variable automatic.

Safety Camry receives a five-star safety rating but that rating which dates back to 2017 is due to expire in December this year. Dual frontal, side chest, side head-protecting (curtain) and driver knee airbags are standard. Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian and daylight cyclist detection and a lane keep assist (LKA) system with lane departure warning (LDW), plus Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also standard. The Toyota Safety Sense suite of safety systems has been enhanced with the addition of road sign assist, emergency steering assist, lane trace assist and intersection turn assist on every model. Connected services can automatically call a 24/7 Toyota Emergency Call Centre and relay the location of the vehicle in the event of a collision that requires intervention, or if an airbag deploys. The driver is also able to request emergency assistance via an SOS button on the overhead console and if the vehicle is reported stolen. It can assist authorities to help track the vehicle’s location via the Stolen Vehicle Tracking (SVT) service.

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

Driving The combination of the petrol engine and two motor generators delivers seamless, linear power delivery through an electronic continuously variable transmission. There are Eco, Normal and Sport modes, while manual sequential shifting is provided via the shift lever or through paddle shifters on the premium SL and sports SX models. The hybrid system requires no user intervention. It works just like a conventional car and does not require charging from a power outlet compared with an EV or plug-in hybrid. It is a self-charging system that draws power from the brakes, when the car is travelling downhill or in stop-start city driving. It’s a well-proven system that delivers significantly less fuel consumption. With a 50-litre fuel tank, fuel use for the SL is a claimed 4.5L/100km and it takes premium 95 unleaded, but is E10 compatible. We were punching out a consistent 5.2L/100km on a 2100km return trip between Sydney and Brisbane. To put this in perspective the petrol model uses 6.8L/100km -- which is also a very good figure. Interestingly, our SL rides on 18-inch wheels, while the sporty SX gets larger 19s. This is because the ride is fairly firm to start with, so the 18-inch wheels are likely to produce a plusher ride in the luxury model. You could always option it with 19s if this is an issue. Entry Ascent is the only grade that comes with a full-size spare wheel. The others get a space saver (but more boot space as a result). As has long been the case with Toyota hybrids, push the start button and nothing appears to happen. The petrol engine remains dormant but the dash comes to life indicating the system is ready. The engine kicks in once speed exceeds 20km/h, even when EV mode is evoked. The system switches automatically between hybrid and electric mode as driving conditions demand. Scrolling through the driver information display shows the direction of energy. That

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

is when the electric motor and/or the petrol engine is operating, and when power is being fed to the front wheels and battery. Out on the highway Camry hybrid is almost silent, with the dash showing an EV symbol occasionally as it seamlessly cuts in and out, supporting or being charged by the petrol engine. Most of the background noise comes from the 235/45 profile Bridgestone Turanza tyres, which says something about the refinement of the hybrid package. Alas you can’t get a V6 anymore and to be frank we miss the punch of a six, but you’re not buying the Hybrid for its performance -- you’re buying it for economy. Sport mode helps . . . a little. Camry is generally an easy relaxing car to drive, with light steering and surprisingly little tug from the lane assist system, but plenty of annoying chimes. It goes where you point it and stops, rather abruptly in fact if you hit the brakes too firmly. The ride can be harsh at times depending on the road surface, but it’s not a deal breaker. Although if you frequent Sydney’s Parramatta Road you might think otherwise. Adaptive cruise control works well and generally retains the desired speed, but was troubled by a series of small up-and-down hills. It accelerated to accommodate the rise, but failed to adjust quickly enough on the descent, exceeding the set speed by several kilometres per hour. The SatNav can also be slow to respond. The boot is large and deep with a 524-litre capacity in the hybrid.

Summing up The fact there is a two-year waiting list and that Toyota had been forced to cancel further orders for Camry Hybrid speaks bucket loads. Despite the demise of the Falcon and Commodore, it proves there’s still room for traditional family sedans, and it shows this must be a good one.

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Medwin back after hard year on the sidelines Aimee Medwin will give Western United a significant boost for the remainder of the A-League women season after rejoining the club. Medwin made an immediate impression in her nine appearances for Western United last season before her campaign was cruelly cut short by an ACL injury. The 24-year-old has remained in connection with the club throughout her rehabilitation program and is now ready to step back into her number five jersey alongside her teammates. Speaking ahead of her return to action after almost 12 months on the sidelines, Medwin said she is overjoyed to be officially back with the team and expressed her gratitude for the club’s support. “Obviously it’s been a long time in the making, and it’s been really good to finally come back into the team. I’m really excited to be back,” she said. “For me, it was really good to be in and around the group and still feel like I was part of the team. Obviously the support staff have been so amazing with me, helping me get back

(Linda Higginson / Western United)

on the field. It’s been really nice to be around the group. “I feel really good. Coming back I feel faster,

I feel stronger, so that’s really good for me and I just want to continue that until I get back on the field.”

Bulls in good position Bacchus Marsh is on its way to finishing its first season in the Ballarat Cricket Association strongly. After winning the toss and batting on Saturday against Buninyong the Bulls got off to a tricky start. Opener Alex Porter never got going as he was struck in the pads and given out leg before wicket for just seven of 46 balls. His partner James Lidgett however was fantastic, making 130 off 226 balls, only striking seven fours and two majors, due to a slow outfield at Maddingley Park. Coach Paul Baker said it was one of his star batters finest knocks. “I’ve been back at the club for three years now and I think that’s the best that I’ve seen him bat in my time back,” he said. “He averages about two tons a year, that was his third this year. It was really tough to bat on, he faced well over 200 balls and a batsman of his calibre would normally finish with a bigger score but the ground itself was very slow and was so hard to score boundaries on.” Lidgett is the fourth highest run scorer in the BCA this season, with 437 runs at an average of 54.63. Batting at eight, Armi Wakefield was then able to make a quick cameo performance of 33 from 38 balls to boost the Bulls score to 7-244 from their 80 overs. “He was probably the difference between us finishing around 200 or getting to 240,” Baker said. “His innings was really good, he chipped in well, I thought he gave us that extra boost so I was very pleased with his knock.” Barker said he was pleased with reaching 244 on Saturday, as he said it was above his par score. “We were happy, the ground was very slow so anything over 200 we thought was a bonus on Saturday,” he said. “240 was a good day, we batted well all day so I was quite happy with that. “[Next week] I think we just need to bowl in the right areas and field well, it’s going to be hard to score on but that’s not to say it can’t be done. But I’d like to think we’ll give it a good shake.” After moving across from the Gisborne and District Cricket Association this season, the Bulls have been competitive. While finals are now off the cards, Baker said finishing the season strong will be very important. “We’re aiming to try and finish with two wins which would give us six for the year, if we were able to do that in our first year in the Ballarat league, that would be ok,” he said. “It’s probably more than we expected, it’s

Georgies win league opener

Bacchus Marsh’s James Lidgett. (Shawn Smits) 205498_05

a tough competition and the learning curve has been quite steep but the boys are finding their feet a bit now. “It’s been pleasing, it’s been a great season

United’s general manager of football Mal Impiombato hailed Medwin’s return as an important one for the run-in towards the A-League finals. “We are delighted to reintroduce Aimee as a part of our playing squad and we are all looking forward to seeing her return to the pitch,” he said. “Playing an integral part of our inaugural season success, Aimee has shown incredible resilience through her rehabilitation with the support of our high-performance staff. “Aimee’s addition will be a significant one for our team heading into the latter part of the season and we look forward to having her help our push for finals football.” Medwin signed for Western United after round one last season and quickly became a regular fixture in the side. Her athleticism and quality on both left and right flanks made her a versatile and reliable option, one which Kat Smith will gleefully integrate into her squad for the rest of this season. She was listed on the bench for United’s clash against Brisbane Roar on Sunday.

actually. “After playing in the GDCA forever, the switch to the Ballarat has taken a little while.”

Caroline Springs George Cross made a winning start to life in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition. After back-to-back promotions, the Georgies face a new challenge this season in the second highest competition in the state. On Saturday, the Georgies got their season off on the right note, beating Melbourne City, 3-2. The Georgies started the better of the teams and led 2-0 before City hit back with two of its own to have the scores locked at 2-2 at half time. The Georgies were able to find a winner in the second half to win, 3-2. Russell Currie scored twice for the Georgies, with Jordan Tucker scoring the other goal. Speaking to the club’s broadcast partners Onflow Media, Georgies coach Eric Vassiliadis said they were happy to come away with the points. “It was a really cagey affair,” he said. “We know these sort of academy teams are coming ready and prepared. It’s always going to be a challenge. “For us the work rate and the endeavour, the desire to buy into how we want to play was exceptional. “The outcome was one thing but when you sort of work really hard to get two goals up and they score two world class goals which are undefendable, it has the impact of potentially affecting and disrupting the morale of the group. “I thought the group’s desire to come in after the second half and stay focused, stay positive, was the highlight. “A good way for us to start. We’ll take this one and move on.” The Georgies this week face Werribee City on Saturday evening at home. Meanwhile in the opening round of the Australia Cup, Melton Phoenix started with a big win against Elwood City. The Phoenix led 1-0 at half time before piling on the goals to come away with a 4-1 in the knock out competition. Westside Strikers won in thrilling circumstances against Mentone. After playing all the second half with 10 men, scores were locked at 1-1 at the end of extra time. The Strikers eventually won 11-10 on penalties. Spring Hills is also through to the next round with a 4-1 win against Tullamarine.

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 21

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Bears eyeing off top four return Burnside Heights has added height and depth as it aims to get back into the Essendon District Football League division 2 top four. The Bears’ best was competitive last season, but injuries late in the season put pay to a second straight top four berth. While the Bears have been quiet on social media with their new signings, the club was one of the busiest when clearances opened on February 1. Daniel Hovey, who kicked 100 goals for the Suns in the Western Region Football League division 3 competition headlines the recruits. Lachlan Evans, who won the Northern Football League division 3 best and fairest award, is another that is set to have a big impact. Brandon Brunalli, Ryhan Thomas, Brock Goldsworhty, Jaydon Stiles, Andrej Krunic and Nicholas Cugliari are others who have put in clearances. Bears coach Cole Harvey said they had been pretty active since they knew they wouldn’t

play finals. “Obviously we needed some fire power up forward,” he said. “We were able to find avenues to goal but we were able to put it on the scoreboard. “Daniel came up and watched some of our games when he had byes. He will give us a focal point up front. “He is a good get, he’s been a good player for a long time.” Harvey said Evans would provide them with plenty of flexibility being able to play in the middle and up forward and expects him to be good for them. Nick Gregson is another one that will come across and be a marking forward, while Styles has kicked more than 800 goals in his career. Harvey said after struggling for height last season, they would be a lot taller this year. “We’ll have seven or eight players over 195 centimetres,” he said. “We felt like our system was OK.

“We have picked up 14-15 new recruits to bring into our system.” Harvey said the other key for them was depth. He said for a club of their size, the minute they got injuries they couldn’t match it with the top sides. He said there were a number of younger players who had limited opportunity last season that would be pushing for senior selection as well. “We had injuries towards the end of last season and we fell away quickly. Against Coburg Districts we played four 16-18 year olds and managed to win the game. The numbers have been strong and we’ve got a couple of match stimulation against better opposition and then practice matches. “I can’t wait.” The Bears kick off their season on April 12 at home under lights against Hadfield. Tara Murray

Daniel Hovey. (Supplied)

Briefs EDFL Hillside has been dealt a blow with forward Bailey Ryan on the move. The Sharks have been busy during the off season, but Ryan is on the way. Having been Victorian Football League listed last season, clearance has been lodged for Ryan to join Essendon District Football League premier division club Essendon Doutta Stars.

Bowls Bacchus Marsh suffered a rare loss in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant division 2, section 1 competition. Facing Werribee, Bacchus Marsh lost 77 (15)-61 (3). Matthew Young was the winning skip for Bacchus, while Justin Webster’s rink had a tie. Bacchus remains on top, but the Bees and Deer Park 2, have cut the gap to eight with one round remaining. In division 2, section 2, ladder leaders Melton had a 108 (17)-51 (1) win against Ivanhoe. Melton has a 69 point lead at the top of the table.

Western United

Winning Victorian team (supplied)

Gold for Attard’s Vics By Harper Sercombe Under the guidance of Melton coach Emily Attard the Victorian Ivor Burge women’s team won a national basketball title. Attard only recently took control of the Ivor Burge side, a competition for people with an intellectual disability. The 22-year-old first joined the side as an assistant coach in 2022 as a 20-year-old. The side played their gold medal game against New South Wales, winning by a comfortable 22 points. With seasoned campaigners Montana Haag and Mia Wilson top scoring for the Vics with 17 and 15 points respectively. Attard, who runs Specialist Hoops in Melton and Bacchus Marsh, said she was thrilled with the result. “It was an unreal experience, it’s not everyday you get the opportunity to coach a nationals team, especially to take them to a finals, let alone a gold medal, so it was an unreal experience overall,” she said. “I was really hesitant about applying for the head coach role this year, for myself

personally, I thought I needed a bit more experience but it was great to have the trust of Basketball Victoria to be able to encourage me to take the role and really step up my coaching and my knowledge and put it to good use. “The disability and inclusion space is a huge thing for myself, and being able to coach athletes with an intellectual disability or an intellectual integration is a huge thing to be able to work with those athletes and let them thrive at the highest level they possibly can here in Australia.” After winning the same competition last season, the Victorians were out to defend their title, with a different looking team line-up. One player who didn’t change was Haag, who won her second consecutive most valuable player award. “Montana works really on and off the court to be the best player she can be and she’s done really well over the past 12 months to continue her playing whether that’s been through the Big V competition as well as representing Australia at the global games,” Attard said. With no major competitions scheduled until the next Ivor Burge championships,

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

Attard said she is committed to maintaining the team synergy up through a new program in conjunction with Basketball Victoria. “My next step with the Victorian girls will be trying to implement a state development program with Basketball Victoria,” she said. “Try to implement a program where they can continue to develop their skills throughout the year so they don’t get forgotten about until the next championships.” It wasn’t just the Ivor Burge women’s side who took out gold for Victoria with the men’s Ivor Burge side winning as well as both men’s and women’s under 20s teams. “Victoria has always been known as one of the strong states,” Attard said. “The past few years with COVID we’ve had our ups and downs but it was really nice to be able to have all four teams playoff in the gold medal game and win as well as our two second teams for the under 20s to play off in the qualifying finals. “It just really shows that basketball in Victoria has a stronghold and it’s really continuing its legacy of being one of the strongest states.”

Aimee Medwin will give Western United a significant boost for the remainder of the A-League women season after re-joining the club. Medwin made an immediate impression in her nine appearances for Western United last season before her campaign was cruelly cut short by an ACL injury. The 24-year-old has remained in connection with the club throughout her rehabilitation program and is now ready to step back into her number five jersey.

Matildas Western United’s Chloe Logarzo is back in the Matildas squad for the upcoming Olympic qualifiers against Uzbekistan. It represents a return to Matildas’ camp for the first time since November 2022 and is just reward for Logarzo following a lean 18 months. After a cruel spell of injuries saw her miss out on last year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup, Logarzo has returned to top form. Through 14 appearances this A-League women season, Western United’s co-captain has been one of the best players in the competition, scoring five goals and providing two assists. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Nations Footy Cup ready to kick off in February The Nations Footy Cup is back for another year, with plenty of big names putting their hands up to be involved. The competition involves players representing countries in both men’s and women’s competitions. This year’s event will be held at Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve. After having eight countries involved in the first year of the competition, it grew to 19 teams last year. This year there will be 15 teams, with 11 teams in the men’s competition and four in the women’s competition. Australia will have two teams in the men’s competition. Malta, Lebanon, Greece, the Allies, a World team, New Zealand, Fiji, Italy and Afghanistan also fielding teams, with the competition to be played across three different divisions. In the women’s competition, Australia, the world, Allies and New Zealand

Lucas Sporle, Enayte Samadi,Tricia Devine and Ahsan Ebrabhimi (Ljubica Vrankovic)

will field teams. One of the organisers Beejay Johnson said it takes a lot of work to put the event together. Johnson founded the event with Michael

Ogliarolo. “The challenge is sponsorship for the competition and players,” she said. “It takes nine months of planning to get the event up and running but we are proud of what we have built. It’s an honour to represent your country and get to do it with your friends and players you would typically play against during the home and away local season.” Johnson said the Diggers Rest Football Netball Club, Diggers Rest Bulla Cricket Club and Melton council had been supportive. She said there had been a number of key sponsors that were on board including Kaos Recovery, Covelli’s Cleaning, The Eleet Caroline Springs, Sargeants Conveyancing and Burgertory. Johnson said the role of Melbourne New Zealand Football Club president Eric Tom, who has been with the competition since the

beginning has been instrumental in building the profile of the cup and football. A majority of the players come from Essendon District Football League teams. Among those involved on the day is Ibby Taha, Omar and Zak Saad for Lebanon which is coached by former Westmeadows coach and now Richmond Victorian Football League assistant Mo Kaakour. New Hillside recruit Robbie Castello is an assistant coach for the Italian team, while former Melbourne player Russell Robertson and North Melbourne and Melbourne player Majak Daw are involved with the Allies. Former Keilor forward Dean Galea is playing for Malta, while Hillside gun Josh Covelli is playing for Italy. Johnson said they want to eventually expand the competition nationally. The cup is being held on February 25.

Falcons lose grip on top

Bacchus Marsh (Damjan Janevski) 245808_02

Armfield excited by team By Harper Sercombe Dennis Armfield has been loving his time since landing at Bacchus Marsh. The former Blue was announced as the Cobras’ coach ahead of the Ballarat Football League season in October. Armfield said he is excited with the talent he has at his disposal including some fresh recruits and players returning to the club. “It’s been a real refresher for myself to come and experience something different,” he said. “It’s really heart warming to be a part of that sort of country town feel, it’s something that I thought I’d enjoy, but I’ve enjoyed it more than I thought I would. “We’ve been able to recruit a couple and bring a couple of old faces back which is always nice. More importantly is probably retaining the young talent that we have that finished off the year so well last year. “I think that’s a vital cog to our wheel, we kept those boys because they showed some great light towards the end of the year, finishing off with four wins in a row.” The recruits have been headlined by former AFL teammate of Armfield’s Andrejs Everitt. Everitt has joined the club as a playing assistant coach after spending 10 seasons

at the top level with the Western Bulldogs, Sydney Swans and Carlton, where he played 131 games and booted 93 goals. “We’ve been together for a while now and his knowledge, his wisdom, but his ability to develop young talent is just next to none, it’s sensational,” Armfield said. “I think what he’s been able to do already in his couple of months with our footy club has been superb and it’s what our club’s about at the moment. We are a very young list, a few ageing faces that’s for sure, but our development is going to come from the fast tracking of these guys. “It allows me to worry about game plan and education and him more of the development side of things which has been very appreciated from my end.” With Everitt’s help Armfield said he has been delighted at the development he has already seen within the playing group. “We’ve had six or seven players currently training on VFL [Victorian Football League] lists, some have been welcomed back to us now and some are still there,” he said. “That’s vital for not only their development but our development and the standards that they’ve brought back to training and the lifting of those standards and the expectations and not only that but internally

we’ve had some great young talent from our under-19s. “They’ve really pushed themselves and pushed the more experienced players to lift their game. That also comes from the recruits and the returning players, you hear them making mention of how exciting, how energetic and enthusiastic our list is and it’s a pleasing thing to have.” While Armfield said he is realistic of where his team sits, his goals stretch much further beyond 2024’s win-loss ratio. “I came in with a clear goal that I wanted to seek improvement and wanted to lift our standards and increase our professionalism but ultimately build stronger connections within our organisation both on and off the field.,” he said. “The old analogy of you’d go to war with your mates… That’ll lead to the improvement both from a week to week and hopefully yearly basis. I don’t want to set any barriers because I’m still learning the competition and I do my due diligence and there are some really good sides in our competition. “For me it’s just about building connections, getting on the same page and a club first mentality throughout our individual players.” The Cobras will begin their season against Ballarat on April 13.

Caroline Springs has lost top spot in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Roy Picone Shield after losing its top of the table clash with the Williamstown Imperials. Playing on Saturday and Sunday, it was the Imperials that got the boost heading into the pointy end of the season. After winning the toss and deciding to bat, the Imperials made 159, bowled out in the 55th over. Tom Burton top scored with 62. Gavin McCallum was the pick of the bowlers for the Falcons, taking 5-32 off 14 overs, including five maidens. The Falcons lost two early wickets to be in trouble at 2-12. The Falcons were then able to put together a small partnership, but that soon came to an end. The Falcons went from 3-63 to all out for 102. Skipper Shiran Rajakaruna top scored with 28 as just three players reached double figures. The Imperials now sit on top of the ladder, two points clear of the Falcons with two rounds remaining. In senior division, Sydenham-Hillside has slipped outside the top two after falling to Deer Park in a top of the table clash. The Lions made 323 on day one with Daniel Sartori starring with 168 off 216 balls. The Storm had some good partnerships early in its innings to give themselves a chance, but their tail didn’t show much resistance as they were bowled out for 208. Gayashan Weerasekara and Ishan Peiris top scored with 51 apiece. The Storm slip to third after Yarraville Club beat Aberfeldie.

Shiran Rajakaruna (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Tuesday, 13 February, 2024 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

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