Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 5th March 2024

Colour is coming

Kings Park will be bright and colourful for the upcoming Holi Festival on March 9.

Community organisation Women of Brimbank, which is dedicated to empowering women, fostering community connections, and welcoming new immigrants, is organising the event.

Founder and president Poonam Singh, who was awarded the Brimbank Citizen of the year in 2023, said the event is one she is proud to host.

“We are thrilled to organise the Festival of Colours, also known as Holi, a Hindu Indian festival,” she said.

“We extend a warm invitation to everyone to join us for this joyous celebration of culture and community.

“This is one of the many ways we engage with the community, free events such as this are aimed at celebrating diversity and bringing people together.”

The event promises to be a fun day out for the whole family, with food and fashion stalls, Bollywood music from a live DJ and a Bollywood dance performance.

The event will take place from 12pm to 3pm at 35 Kings Road in Kings Park.

Residents fear deja-vu

By Gerald Lynch

Neighbouring residents of the Sydenham Grace residential service site fear plans are afoot to reopen the site after it was forced to shut its doors 18 months ago.

The service had its registration revoked in July 2022 by the Human Services Regulator after a state government investigation found that Grace Disability Services (GDS) was not meeting regulations in place to protect the health and wellbeing of the facility’s 34 residents.

The closure was welcomed by local residents after alleged incidents involving residents of the service roaming the streets and committing unsociable acts, all within close proximity to a kindergarten.

Many residents expressed concerns at the time of the closure that the space would

re-open under a different entity or for a different purpose.

These concerns have heightened with residents spotting workers coming in and out of the site, bringing in bedding material and other equipment.

This caused confusion and anger among residents, after an email from Wintringham Community Housing in 2022 said a re-opening would be discussed with the community.

“Hypothetically, for the site to open as a SRS in the future, an interested party would need to apply for the site to be re-registered as an SRS,” the email said.

“This would almost certainly involve community consultation.”

A Director of Families, Fairness, and Housing spokesperson said no formal application to operate at the location had been lodged.

“Since the closure of the former Supported

Residential Service, the director of it was banned from operating an NDIS service by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission,” they said.

Brimbank city futures director Kelvin Walsh said the council understands owners of the property are looking to reopen it.

An earlier email from council to a resident said that the site had been sold and that the new owners assured the council there wouldn’t be the same issues as previously.

“Council is aware that the owners of the site at 1-5 Profita Avenue, Sydenham, are preparing to open it for a Supported Residential Service (SRS),” he said.

“The current planning permit for the site that was issued in 1992 allows this use to occur,” he said.

“In order for the site to re-open as an SRS, the owner or operator must obtain registration from the Department of

Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) who are the authority responsible for overseeing these facilities. Council understands that this site has not yet been registered for this purpose so will be keeping a watchful eye on it to ensure that the use does not commence until the required approvals are in place.

“Given the issues that were experienced by the surrounding residents when the site was previously operated as an SRS, council understands why they are very concerned about this proposal.”

Dujon Jovan is one resident who believes his fear is coming true.

“We fought a battle to get it shut down for over five years,” he said.

“We had ladies who were residents at the centre knocking on our door at midnight, asking for cigarettes and money.

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Kanika, Poonam, Neha, Manisha with Madhvi 7 and Shanaya 7. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 387636

Councillor in a ‘state of fear’

By Gerald Lynch

A Brimbank councillor has been victim of threats and abuse after calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.

Councillor Viriginia Tachos led the charge on a motion calling for an end to the conflict between Israel and Palestine at the council meeting on February 20.

Following the meeting, Cr Tachos said she had been on the receiving end of abuse and death threats.

She said she has been inundated with calls and messages of abuse, and feels worried for her safety.

“I’ve had to divert my phone so I don’t receive anymore messages. I’m in a state of fear at the moment and I have never experienced

anything like this before,” she said. “Whether the threats are real or not, you feel unsettled.

I’m really concerned about my safety.

“I put through what I thought was a very fair and even balanced condemnation of racism, Islamophobia, anti-semitism, and anything that is extreme. I was certainly not expecting this level of hatred towards me.

“I have learnt to accept as a public person I will receive my fair share of support and criticisms for positions - however there is no place for death threats that have made me feel fearful and concerned. I’ve had to limit my movements as I have also been stalked and filmed in the public realm - matters of which I have discussed with the police and other agencies.”

Cr Tachos explained in the meeting why

localgovernmentcouncillorswerevotingonan issue that was playing out in the Middle East.

“Many have asked me, ‘why bring this into the local council chamber, it’s a complex international conflict, it’s not relevant to your role?’,” she said.

“It is relevant when my constituents who voted for their voices to be represented in the chamber express complete despair and deep unfathomable pain for the immense loss of life, the displacement and the reality that their families and loved ones face daily when they witness the images of war and horror.”

Brimbank council director people, partnerships and performance, Georgie Hill condemned abuse of any form.

“At the February 20 council meeting a motionwiththeheadingCeasefireinGazawas

Thuc’s beautiful journey continues

Brimbank resident Thuc Tran is set to launch her art exhibition this week at the Bowery Gallery in St Albans.

A long standing passion for art and studying began with a Bachelor of Fine Art undertaken in Vietnam in 1995, followed by a Diploma of Arts undertaken in Melbourne in 2000.

Ms Tran’s art is an embodiment of her deep creativity, with pieces using multiple mediums including watercolour, silk painting, and oil painting. She said she is extremely proud of herself as

a stay at home mother to be able to produce an exhibition, and encouraged others in a similar position to keep pursuing their passion.

“A stay at home parent like me can reach their goals, whatever they want to do, keep doingit,don’tgiveuponyourdream,”shesaid.

“I’ve had a carer role for 13 years for my son, so I have been involved with lots of activities with the Brimbank carers support group.

“I have always wanted to share my art with society, and the support group helped me to be involved in the exhibition.

“I have to say a massive thankyou to the support group, without them I wouldn’t have been able to make this happen.

“They helped me get into the society, and be confident in myself and be involved in programs such as art groups, which has helped me find my identity.”

Ms Tran’s art exhibition, ‘Journey’, will be launched at the Bowery Gallery on Friday, March 8 from 6pm to 7pm, and available for public viewing until May 4.

Gerald Lynch

tabled and after a period of debate was carried by council,” she said. “At the same meeting a petition was received from some 3,408 petitioners which also called for a ceasefire in Gazaandthiswasreferredtothechiefexecutive officer for consideration and response.

“Following the council meeting, and as a result of the ceasefire in Gaza discussions, several councillors have reported being harassed or receiving threats from the public. Support is being provided to the individuals involved.

“We take safety and wellbeing of councillors and staff very seriously. Threats of violence, abuse or hate speech have no place in our city. Those found or suspected to be engaging in such activities will be referred to Victoria Police.”

Residents fear deja-vu

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“So, we tried to ring the place and report it and there’d be no one working there. These people were just left free to roam around.

“If it’s going to open up again, we’ve already spoken about, we’ll be shifting houses.

“I can’t go through it again, every second day something would happen, police,firebrigades,ambulances,people on the street fighting, it turned our street into a madhouse.”

Another resident Annie Blight said that after all the complications that arose last time the centre was open, she would much prefer to see the doors stay shut.

“It doesn’t give me much hope hearing that it is going to open again, afterwitnessingthehistoryofitopening and closing multiple times and seeing residents not being properly taken care of,” she said.

“Our neighbourhood has finally known peace without any disturbances, and I think I speak with everyone that we’d much prefer it shut.”

Tragic loss leads to award winning lesson for football club

Caroline Springs Football Club was celebrated attheannualGoodSportsAwardsatParliament House in Canberra, named runner-up for the Good Sports National Safe Transport Award. The national Good Sports Awards celebrate Australia’s best community sporting clubs and volunteers, for their commitment to building healthy and inclusive club environments, and their work with the Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s Good Sports program in tackling topics like alcohol, illicit drugs, smoking, mental health and safe transport.

Caroline Springs Football Club was recognisedforputtingthesafetyofitsmembers

as top priority by implementing transport policies to ensure everyone gets home safe.

Theclub’schildsafetyofficerKrystalDelanty said the club’s focus on road safety came after the tragic loss of one of the club’s coaches in a road traffic accident.

“This loss heavily affected our club and the community, leading us to start heavily promoting road safety and transport to our members,” she said. “We’ve utilised our social media channels and scoreboard during games to promote safe transport messages to as many people as possible.

“Thisseason,weheldaroadsafetyeducation

session with Victoria Police, where officers spoke to players and their parents about distractions whilst driving.

“Additionally, for the last couple of seasons, we’ve hired a bus to transport our guests to our mid-season ball to avoid the risk of drink driving.”

The Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s Victoria manager Mona Malouf said the club should be incredibly proud of its achievements.

“Theseawardrecipientsareshiningexamples of the Good Sports program which is helping buildahealthiersportingnationbysupporting clubs to be the very best they can be,” she said.

Working with almost 12,000 community sports clubs, including over 3,300 in Victoria, Good Sports is Australia’s largest community health sports program.

In Victoria, it’s managed by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation and funded by the federal government.

The recent ‘Celebrating 25 Years’ impact report, highlights the powerful impacts of the Good Sports program, including the reduction of risky drinking at participating clubs by 37 per cent, with a 42 per cent reduction in alcohol-related harms.

Gerald Lynch

Thuc Tran and her art work. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Sydenham Grace building. (Damjan Janevski) 264687_02

Multilingual parent help

By Cade Lucas

Being a first time parent can be difficult enough without the resources, advice and support services needed to navigate life with a newborn, being in a different language.

Despite Melbourne being one of the most multicultural cities on earth, the language barrierhaslongbeenaproblemfornewparents from non-English speaking backgrounds, especially in the western suburbs.

ButanewprogramlaunchedinSunshineon Thursday is designed to change that.

Developed by Deakin University’s evidenced-basedinfantfeeding,activeplayand nutrition (INFANT) program in partnership with the state government, Western Health andlocalfamilies,asuiteof72newin-language resources designed specifically for culturally and linguistically diverse families are now

available across Victoria.

Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas launched the program at the Alexandra Avenue Children’s Centre in Sunshine West and said all parents should have easy access to support and advice for their newborn.

“As a parent you want trusted information that’seasytounderstandandthelanguageyou speakshouldn’tbeabarrier,”MinisterThomas said.

Comprising of 48 videos and 24 written booklets, the new resources contain critical health information including infant feeding to active play and nutrition.

It is the first time this type of information has been made available in Punjabi, Hindi, Urdu, Arabic, Mandarin, and Vietnamese, which is a particularly common language in Sunshine, Brimbank and other parts of Melbourne’s west.

Thao Tran from the Vietnamese First Time Parents support group said the new resources will make a big difference to the local Vietnamese community.

“Sometimes if they could not connect with the language the parent would just give up and not get the help they need,” she said.

“So this is a very great opportunity.”

ProfessorKylieHeskethfromtheInstituteof Physical Activity at Deakin University, helped design the INFANT program 15 years ago and said making its nutritional and active play advice more widely available would benefit the broader community.

“We’ve got more than 15 years of evidence that show that families who take part in this program, have children who are eating more healthily, who are engaging in less screen time and that these benefits continue through the child’s life.”

No meetings until there’s new info

TheEnvironmentalProtectionAuthority will no longer hold regular meetings with residents in regards to the Kealba landfill.

The EPA has held regular meetings with residents to keep them updated in regards to Barro Group’s attempts to put out underground fires that have been burning for more than four years.

In its the EPA’s latest release to residents, western metropolitan region regional manager Steve Lansdell said they had been talking with community members about the meetings, The EPA has been limited in what it can say with legal action against Barro Group in progress.

“We spoke with key community leaders recently, and residents at our last session,“ he said. “We will now hold community sessions when we have new information to share. We will continue to give you email updates monthly to keep you informed. We will also check inwhentoschedulethenextcommunity information session.“

TheupdatesaidtheEPAhadinspected the site three times in January during drillingworkanddidn’tsmellanyodour during those visits.

“Barro Group continue to install gas bores around the landfill hotspot,“ Mr Lansdell said. “The bores will track any changes in the hotspot. Information from the bores will help them finish their hotspot remediation design.“

Health Minister, Mary-Anne Thomas (third from left) with staff, parents and babies at Alexandra Avenue Children’s Centre in Sunshine West.

Unemployment drops, says data

Nominations open for the 2024 We Are Brimbank Awards

Help us recognise the outstanding contributions of our local community leaders, residents, businesses, young people and community groups.

This year’s We Are Brimbank Awards, which include Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year, will celebrate individuals and groups who positively impact our community and inspire others through their exceptional dedication and service. There are two new award categories: Community Group of the Year and Sports and Wellbeing Award. NominationscloseSunday7April

If you know of a project, organisation, community group or community leader that deserves to be recognised, don’t hesitate - nominate them now by completing the online form on Council’s website brimbank.vic.gov.au/waba

Award categories for individuals, groups and businesses

• Citizen of the Year

• Young Citizen of the Year

• Arts, Culture or Tourism

• Community Engagement

• Environment or Sustainability

• Sports and Wellbeing

• Community Group of the Year

Visit yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au to learn more about projects that are open for comment including:

• Draft Reconciliation Action Plan

• Fix the Calder

Brimbank Writers and Readers Festival 2024

The festival offers 18 no-cost events between 14-23 March

There’s something for all ages. Featuring Kon Karapanagiotidis, Tony Birch, Noah Riseman, Dinaku Mckenzie, Nornie Bero, John Marsden, Amra Pajalic, and more. Visit brimbank libraries.vic.gov.au to explore the program and book your tickets.

Celebrating diversity

You’re invited to Brimbank’s Cultural Diversity Week events, which run between 18-24 March

Cultural Diversity Week is Victoria’s largest multicultural celebration, held annually to coincide with Harmony Day on 21 March

Our exciting program of events will help you celebrate the diversity and proud community spirit in our municipality. For a full list of events and to register, go to: brimbank.vic.gov.au/culturaldiversity-week

Kinder Readiness Month

Will your child be turning three or four years old next year? We’re offering faceto-face and online information sessions throughout March to guide you through the kinder registration and enrolment process. You’ll get the chance to ask questions, check if your child is registered, and update your details. To find out more, go to brimbank.vic.gov.au/kinder

International Women’s Day

Join us to mark this important day on Wednesday 6 March from 3pm with afternoon tea and a panel discussion at Watergardens Town Centre.

The audience will be able to listen to a keynote address by Maria Dimopolous, Board Chair of Safe + Equal, followed by a discussion with guest panellists. Visit events.brimbank.vic.gov.au to learn more.

By Gerald Lynch

Brimbank has Melbourne’s equal highest jobless rate, despite a drop in the number of people without jobs, new data reveals.

National Skills Commission data reveals Brimbank’s unemployment rate fell to 6.4 per centinSeptember2023,downfrom7.2percent 12 months prior.

Despitethedrop,Brimbank’sunemployment rate ranks equal highest with Greater Dandenong.

Kings Park and St Albans North are among some of the suburbs with the highest unemployment rates in the state, wth 9.5 and 9.6 per cent respectively.

The Victorian unemployment rate was 3.9 per cent.

DirectorofcityfuturesatBrimbankCouncil, Kelvin Walsh, said unemployment was an ongoing concern for council.

“Brimbank has a higher unemployment rate compared with Greater Melbourne. This is a consistent long term trend, partly attributed to historicalfactorswithintheCityincludingsome higher levels of socioeconomic disadvantage in parts of the municipality,” he said. “Council is focused on reducing the unemployment rate in Brimbank through improved employment pathways, upskilling and job readiness for our community and facilitating jobs generating investment attraction through the Economic Development Strategy 2022-2027.

“Historically the reasons for higher unemployment in Brimbank have been the impacts of broader international, national and state level economic restructuring over the

past 20 years and while manufacturing is still the dominant industry, many of the new and emerging industries are seeking employees with higher qualifications or they employ less people.”

Taylors Hill-based not-for-profit organisation Future Connect chief executive Deirdre Hardy noted a number of reasons for the high employment rate throughout Brimbank.

Future Connect helps create opportunities that lead to improving education, training and employment pathways for young people in Brimbank.

“What we have noticed is that post-COVID, a lot of people mid-career have wanted to move jobs and have been able to, but for people just starting a career, particularly in skilled work, it can be really difficult to find a job,” she said.

“A lot of people we see struggling for jobs in Brimbank lack social capital. This is often because many young people living here have one or both parents born overseas, giving them a poorer network, and seeing them adopt intergenerational trauma.

“There are lots of industries with shortages, suchasmanufacturing,whereemployerscould be more flexible about what they’re looking for, a lot of jobs have a stock standard requirement needing a licence, first aid training, and a white card, even if it isn’t really needed for that specific job.

“For young people of low socio economic statusinBrimbank,theymaystruggletoaccess acarorevenalicence,meaningtheyareunable to attain these jobs.”

Explore Keilor’s history

The police hut was restored by Brimbank council in late 2021. It originally was imported from England to Australia in the 1850s during the Gold Rush.

Keilor Historical Society

“Come and have a good look around, buy some material about the history of the region,” she said. “There will be an afternoon tea with refreshments, and a live band for all to enjoy.

“It is a great chance to learn about some of the market garden families who lived and worked in Keilor.

“The families came from all over the world and contributed to the farming history of this region.”

The prefab police hut and Harrick’s Cottage will be open for display.

“We have written about some of these events and the extraordinary individuals who have lived and worked here in this area previously,” Ms Jennison continued.

“It’s about families such as the Milburns (DavidMilburnarrivedinMelbournein1853), the Wallaces, the Browns, the Senserricks, the Skopilianos and Koroneos families and the Battaglias and the Vargius.

“People attending will learn about the experiences and the farming methods.”

The Rural Heritage of Keilor event takes place on 152 Harrick Road in Keilor Park on Saturday, March 16 from 12.30pm to 5pm.

Gerald Lynch

Keilor Historical Society vice president, Susan Jennison and event organiser, Fred Ackerman. (Jacob Pattison) 391515_01

Litter problems at can recycling

By Gerald Lynch

The Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) was introducedtocutlitter,butisitreallyworking?

A reverse vending machine (RVM) at the Avenue Shopping Centre in Ardeer has been consistently surrounded by litter, according to fed up residents.

The state government said the introduction of the CDS was important to help transform Victoria’s waste and recycling system.

According to the government CDS Vic provides shared benefits to the community, environment and economy by delivering more and better recycling, less waste and

less litter.

However,localresidentAndrewVamvoukis said he is tired of seeing the area covered in rubbish.

“I shop there regularly and the place constantly looks like a dump,” he said.

“Not just in front of the machine but all around it. People leave boxes, cartons and tubs after putting all their cans in.

“It completely defeats the purpose of what the machine was brought in for.”

A spokesperson from TOMRA Cleanaway, which administers the scheme in the west, said regular cleaning occurs but encouraged users of the machines to not litter.

Embracing the dragon

Catholic Regional College in St Albans celebrated Lunar New Year in a big way.

The school dedicated a whole week to the celebrations. The Year of the Dragon was celebrated with decorations, as the Dragon is considered to be the most powerful animal in the Zodiac, and signifies strength.

The 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,andhaveexistedforthousandsofyears.

College principal Christina Utri said the week was a big success.

“Over the past week we have enjoyed a number of activities to celebrate the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Dragon,“ she said.

“The week had something for everyone:

calligraphy, badminton, chop stick games, origami and bamboo dancing.

“Red envelopes sharing good luck and inspiring quotes and Asian inspired foods in the canteen completed the week.

“A very big thank you to all the students and staff who organised and were part of the events.

“What makes our community unique is the space we offer for students to celebrate and share their culture.”

The events were ran by year 8, 9, and 10 leaders at the school, giving students a chance to harness their leadership and organisation skills.

Gerald Lynch

Corey, 15, Mia, 15, and Mia, 14, with Lunar New Year dragons. (Jacob Pattison) 389265_01

“TOMRA Cleanaway is responsible for maintaining the refund collection point network in the CDS Vic West Zone and conducts regular site maintenance including site cleaning, multiple times each day,” the spokesperson said.

“Customers who make use of CDS Vic West Zone reverse vending machines are encouraged to take their rubbish home and dispose of materials in their household general waste and recycling bins.”

Mr Vamvoukis had noted that as a regular shopper he had seen some cleaning of the area, but not enough.

“They do get around and clean it, but I

doubt it’s every day and it’s definitely not multiple times a day, no way,” he said.

TOMRA Cleanway’s spokesperson said despite the mess in Ardeer, they are pleased to see the community in Melbourne’s west embrace the machines.

“We are thrilled at the enthusiasm that residents across the West Zone have shown for Victoria’s container deposit scheme, CDS Vic. Since the scheme commenced on 1 November 2023, over 114 million containers have been returned across the CDS Vic West Zone,puttingmorethan$11millionbackinto the pockets of local residents and community groups.”

End of our level crossing woes

By Gerald Lynch

The Mt Derrimut Road level crossing removal has been completed, and the community came together on the weekend to mark the milestone.

The crossing within the Deer Park Station precinct has long been labelled as dangerous by locals, and on Saturday, March 2, the wait for a safe solution was finally over.

A celebration with food, drinks, and face painting took place at the precinct to mark the end of works.

Brimbank Mayor Cr Ranka Rasic attended thecelebration,andspoketotheimportanceof

the removal and its benefit to the community.

“This is a massive project and a huge improvement to the Deer Park Station and the bus interchange, both for public transport users and local residents,” she said.

“The removal of the level crossing, completed in 2023, has increased safety and reduced traffic congestion, and is already delivering benefits to local road users.“

She said the removal supports the growing number of people using the station, as well as improving the visual aesthetics of the precinct, and she is excited about the prospect of further upgrades.

“Transformative infrastructure like this

Recognising local greats

NominationsfortheWeareBrimbankawards areofficiallyopen,withanumberofcategories to recognise outstanding locals.

The headlining awards are Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year.

The Citizen of the Year is to be awarded to a member of the community whose dedication, selflessness, and leadership have had a profound impact in Brimbank.

The Young Citizen of the Year should be a person aged between 16 and 25 years with a strong passion and commitment to being part of a brighter future for Brimbank. This could include being heavily involved in community projects, volunteering their time, ordemonstratingactsofremarkablekindness.

There are also a number of award categories returning for another year; Arts, culture or tourism, community engagement, Environment and Sustainability.

This year there are also two new awards, one for Sports and Wellbeing, seeking out a sports club or individual promoting health and fitness in a positive way.

Further, there is a group award for the Community Group of the Year. This will go to a group showing outstanding dedication to improving the lives of Brimbank residents through events or services.

Nominations are now open until midnight on Sunday, April 7, and can be made at brimbank.vic.gov.au/waba

Last year’s Young Citizen of the Year Kayla Parker and Citizen of the Year Poonam Singh, with former Brimbank Mayor Bruce Lancashire. (Supplied)

can have a big and positive impact. We’re looking forward to working with the state government on the upgrades to Albion and Sunshine stations and the benefits these projects will also bring to Brimbank,” she said.

The recent upgrades to Deer Park station also sees it become Victoria’s first rail station with a rooftop garden, and falling in line with the garden, thel level crossing removal project team has recently planted more than 5000 native grasses and wildflowers on top of the station buildings, and a further 50,000 trees, shrubs, flowers and grasses are being planted in the broader station precinct.

Airport works underway

Early works are underway ahead of the start of construction on stage two of Naarm Way at Melbourne Airport, which will transform the way people arrive and depart the airport.

Construction on stage two will start this month and will provide a direct connection from the Tullamarine Freeway to new dedicated pick- up and drop-off zones in the T123 car park, reducing traffic congestion and enhancing safety.

The project will necessitate the closure of up to 2000 parking spaces, which will reduce capacity, particularly during peak travel times.

Melbourne Airport ground transport, property and retail chief Jai McDermott, said

there will be temporary inconveniences while construction is underway.

“This project will take an estimated 70,000 cars off Terminal Drive each day and provide a more resilient road network designed to reducestressforpassengerseitherdepartingor arriving,” he said.

“It does, however, mean we have to remove parking spaces in the value car park and in the T123 parking facility to make way for this upgrade, so we encourage everyone to book parking online to secure the best rate, especiallyduringpeaktimesliketheupcoming long weekend and Easter holidays.”

The second stage set to open in 2026.

The level crossing has now been fully removed at Deer Park Station. (Supplied)

Creating green spaces

Brimbank schools are invited to get involved in Greater Western Water’s (GWW) Trees for Schools program to help increase tree canopy cover and create more green spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Up to 4000 native trees are available as part of the program, which GWW will distribute through an expression of interest process open to every primary and secondary school located in their service area.

Eligible schools will be given up to 50 trees, along with stakes and guards to protect the trees until they can grow independently.

Mapping and analysis has shown the western region currently has the lowest tree canopy cover in Melbourne at 5.5 per cent. In comparison, canopy cover in the eastern suburbs is 25.9 per cent.

GWW’s general manager of strategy and partnershipsKessiaThomsonisencouragingall eligible schools to get involved and contribute to a greener, healthier western region and a more climate resilient future.

“Tree canopy improves air quality, cooling through shading and provides habitats for birds, insects and some mammals,” she said.

“The program will not only raise awareness about the benefits of green spaces and how trees help to reduce urban heat, but also provides an opportunity for an active learning environment.

“Students can participate in preparing sites, planting trees and doing general maintenance and watering.”

Ms Thomson said GWW hopes to build on the success of last year’s program where 27 schools in the region received more than 1000 trees to plant.

GWW’s service area covers the local government areas of Moorabool, Melton, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, MooneeValley,WyndhamandYarra,andparts of Hume, Macedon Ranges and Melbourne. Expressions of interest are open until Monday, April 22.

Details: https://shorturl.at/acew2

Briefs

House fire

Fire fighters responded to a house fire in St Albans just after midday on Wednesday, February 28. Crews arrived at the Wilpena Court property within six minutes to find the single storey, brick dwelling, issuing flames and smoke. The incident was bought under control within 15 minutes. The fire affected the garage and the rear of the dwelling, with heat and smoke impacting a neighbouring property. A young family, who occupy the home, safely evacuated before fire crews arrived and there were no injuries reported.

Arson arrest

Police arrested a man following an arson attack at a reception centre in Thomastown. A search warrant was executed at an address in St Albans on February 29. A 20-year-old St Albans man was taken into custody and was expected to be charged with two counts of criminal damage by fire, reckless conduct endangering serious injury, theft of motor vehicle and commit indictable offence whilst on bail. The warrant follows an incident on February 22 where emergency services fought a fire at a reception centre on Settlement Road, Thomastown. Police allege a man set the premises alight, before fleeing. Nobody was injured during the incident, but the building sustained significant damage.

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Students from Riddells Creek Primary School planting their trees in 2023. (Supplied)

Six arrested for tobacco import

Six north-western suburbs men have been charged for allegedly trying to import 10 million illicit cigarettes into Victoria after a 16 month investigation.

It is alleged some of the men work for freight and transport logistics companies in trusted positions.

The six men faced the magistrates court on Tuesday, February 27 and are facing up 10 years imprisonment for the alleged importation, which had an estimated value of $15 million. It will be additionally alleged the syndicate attempted to avoid paying millions of dollars in Commonwealth excise. Search warrants were executed on February 27 at a number of businesses and

homes in Melbourne’s western suburbs.

It will be alleged several of the men have linkstothegroupsuspectedofbeingbehinda series of illicit tobacco imports into Victoria.

A 35-year-old Fraser Rise man is accused of using his position employed in transport and logistics to assist the syndicate to covertly collect and move the consignment he believed contained the illicit tobacco shipment upon its arrival into Australia.

A45-year-oldPointCookmanisanalleged facilitator for the criminal syndicate was arrested at a residential property on Tuesday.

He was accused of planning and facilitating the criminal tobacco import and using trusted insiders with knowledge of the

transport and freight logistics industry in a bid to evade detection from law enforcement and subsequent Commonwealth taxes.

Both were charged with conspiracy to import tobacco products with the intention of defrauding the revenue.

It is alleged three of the group, including a 35-year-old Truganina man, a 31-year-old Altona Meadows man and a 35-year-old Craigieburn man, were involved in the importation and distribution of illicit tobacco throughout Victoria and have been charged with aiding, abetting, counsel or procure the importation of tobacco products with the intention of defrauding the revenue.

A 40-year-old Tarneit man was charged

Leaping into life on February 29

One of Taylors Lakes newest residents has the bragging rights to the rarest of possible birthdays.

Newborn Parker Jack was born at 8.52am on Thursday, February 29, one of three new bubs born on the leap year day at Sunshine Hospital.

Parker was born via Caesarean section, so there was no big surprise, but mother Jacqui Muscat said that won’t stop the jokes coming

in.

“My nephew’s friend’s grandfather is the only person we know born on February 29, theyhadbeenjokinglatelythathewascoming up on his 18th birthday,” she said.

“Don’t quote me, but I think that makes him 72.”

Jacqui,nowamotherofthreeboys,saidthis time around it was hard to find the perfect name.

“It was nothing significant really, it was just a name we really liked, after searching through lots of name books we finally decided on Parker,” she said.

She said in the non-leap years, Parker will have to wait for his presents until March 1.

He has two older brothers, three and five, who are eager to meet the newest member of the family.

Gerald Lynch

with alleged proceeds of crime offences and failing to comply with a court order.

Victorian Crime Command Commander Paul O’Halloran said crime involving tobacco has gotten out of hand.

“In particular, the past 12 months has given rise to a large number of deliberate and reckless arson attacks across a range of business, in particular tobacco retailers,” he said.

“We have been very clear about the risk this presents to the broader community and the potential for someone to be killed or seriously injured due to these fires.”

Akzo Nobel provides update

At the recent Community Reference Group meeting, Akzo Nobel, the paint manufacturer based in Sunshine North, presented significant advancements in their odour and noise mitigation efforts.

For odour control, independent air quality consultant Cam McNaughton shared updates on the latest modelling of the site’s odour profile.

The analysis revealed that current measures, including the installation of a Regenerative Thermal Oxidizer (RTO) and other actions, have resulted in a remarkable 74 per cent reduction in site-wide odour emissions compared to historical levels. Future measures, such as the closure of the resin plant and the deployment of a concentrator wheel, are anticipated to bring emissions within the target range, achieving an impressive 89 per cent decrease from historic levels.

Regarding the odour concentrator wheel, a permanent solution for treating odorous compounds from the paint plant, plans are complete, and a meeting with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is scheduled for the review of the application.

On the noise front, progress has been made with a noise wall, although construction delays have occurred. A surveyor’s site visit has taken place, and construction is expected to commence in the coming weeks.

Independent acoustic consultant Guy Baxendale provided an update on noise modelling, indicating improvements in noiseemissionssincetheprogrambegan in 2021. The company is committed to addressing community concerns and keeping residents informed about further developments.

CFA proud to continue supporting the Good Friday Appeal

Easter is just around the corner, which means CFA volunteers throughout Brimbank are about to hit Victorian streets and rattle tins to fundraise for the annual Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) Good Friday Appeal.

For 73 years, CFA has been a proud major fundraising partner of the Good Friday Appeal, raising more than $37 million since 1951.

Last year, CFA brigades helped raise a massive$1,606,287fortheappealbyvolunteers shaking tins on fire trucks, standing at traffic lights, in camping grounds and at clubs.

CFA deputy chief officer Alen Slijepcevic was recently joined by Caroline Springs

brigade members 1st Lieutenant David Topp plus firefighters Jake Busutill and Stephanie Robson to help launch the appeal.

They were joined by faces of the appeal Emily and Finley and their families.

Caroline Springs brigade has raised $96,434.47intotalfortheGoodFridayAppeal, edging closer to the $100,000 milestone.

Captain Anthony Jenkins is the new Collection Group Manager for the brigade.

The father-of-five also has a strong connection with the hospital, one of his daughters was helped by the team there.

“My daughter, just 18 months then, had her finger cut off and reattached by the plastics

team at the Royal Childrens after an accident with a door. She is 13 now and you’d barely know it’s been reattached,” he said.

“I am so grateful for the appeal and the hospital especially after seeing first-hand the good work they do. They make you feel so comfortable as a parent too.”

Mr Slijepcevic said he was extremely proud of CFA’s long-standing relationship with the Good Friday Appeal.

“It’s a cause close to the hearts of many of our members – whether they were former patients at the hospital or have family who have been touched by the RCH’s world-class service.”

Caroline Springs brigade members Stephanie Robson, Jake Busutill and David Topp with faces of the appeal Emily and Finley. (Provided)

Jacqui Muscat with her newborn Parker Jack. (Western Health)

By Jennifer Pittorino

For more than 33 years, Elizabeth Drozd has worked in community service and it’s only now she feels it is time for her to move on.

Ms Drozd, the chief executive of Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS) based in Maidstone, will retire in July.

“I feel like I have reached a stage in my life where I would like more time off than the usual four weeks of annual leave,” she said. “I am excited to explore other options in terms of lifestyle and interests.”

‘‘ Everything in life changes, it was a big decision but I am very comfortable with it ’’

- Elizabeth Drozd

With an impressive resume, Ms Drozd found it difficult to pinpoint one highlight of her career.

Recalling memories of her time on Brimbank council and her long career at the AMCS, she has loved it all as a proud westie.

“I have always worked in the western region of Melbourne, which is also where I live in the city of Maribyrnong,” she said. “For me there have been quite a few highlights, I could probably list 10 or 20 events.

“But what really comes to mind first and foremost is the practical assistance that I have provided directly to individuals, families, communities and organisations.”

Ms Drozd said she is also very proud and pleased with the employment opportunities that AMCS have offered to trans people of immigrant backgrounds.

ForMsDrozdthisretirementisabittersweet experience, although she is confident it is the right move.

“On one hand it was a very tough decision which I knew would come, I had decided I would do it this year,” she said.

“I will certainly miss the people I work

with, we spend most of our daytime hours with colleagues and I love the multicultural character of the workforce.

“However,everythinginlifechanges,itwasa big decision but I am very comfortable with it.”

With no hard and fast plans for her retirement , Ms Drozd said the next year will

involve 12 months off.

“I don’t want to make any commitments but alsotakethistimetolookatwhatIwanttodo,” she said.

“The Japanese have a term Ikigai, which translates to something that gives a person a sense of purpose, a reason for living.”

Elizabeth Drozd. (Supplied)

Multicultural Dementia Care and Support Centres

Australian Multicultural Community Service (AMCS) has recently added Dementia Care andSupportCentrestoitsrangeofcommunity support initiatives, with no cost to attendees.

Within a short space of time, the feedback from carers and their loved one is extremely positive and more centres are opening on a demand-basis.

The aim of the centres is to recognise and assist both the carer and their loved one who has been diagnosed with dementia. Appreciating that the carer faces many practical and emotional challenges in their role, the centres assist by empowering carers through education and wellbeing sessions and enabling them to meet other carers and share experiences and ideas. They have the opportunity to meet in a friendly and safe environment and to receive mentoring support from experienced professionals.

The program enables people with dementia to engage in activities that are suited to their abilities in a welcoming group setting.

Christina and Chandra have been attending the program along with their carers, Cooper and Praveena. Together, they have formed a friendshipandareoftenchattingandlaughing during group activities and enjoying their free lunch! Sharing life stories and experienceshas brought a strong connection.

Carer feedback includes,”It’s a great place to meet other carers and share experiences. It’s a safe place where you can learn and laugh. I don’t feel alone anymore”.

The FREE Dementia Care and Support Centre program runs over five sessions. For further information call AMCS (03) 9689 9170

Helping Francesca at home

Francesca Catroppa migrated from Italy 70 years ago and met her husband in Melbourne. Now widowed, she lives alone in her own home, with the support of a Home Care Package, provided by Australian Multicultural Community Services (AMCS).

At 93 years old, Francesca enjoys the company of other people and struggles to cope with social isolation. As part of her Care Plan goals, she wanted to find a regular activity that would meet her social needs.

AMCS is a not-for-profit organisation and has a strong focus on community engagement and social inclusiveness. AMCS organises her transport and support worker to access her social clubs once per month and

Home Care Support & Community Services

We provide culturally appropriate support to our senior community. For over 40 years, our professional team have empowered the lives of senior Victorians, to live safely and independently in their own home. Home

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supports Francesca during the activity, as the group doesn’t provide this level of support to members through her Home Care Package funds.

Not stopping there, Francesca also wanted to find a music related activity, as she is talentedsingeranddancer.Previously,AMCS assisted Francesca with finding an Italian speaking association that organises monthly functions for its members, celebrating traditional Italian music and dance.

Francesca is absolutely delighted by her musicalactivityandnowhastheopportunity to sing and dance to the songs of her childhood, with the bonus of socialising with other Italian speaking people.

Multicultural

Our FREE 5-session program supports carers and their care recipient:

• Small group sessions to share experiences & ideas

• Information sessions to increase knowledge & confidence of dementia care

• Fun activities in a welcoming environment, with lunch provided

Francesca Catroppa.

Chandra attends the Dementia Care and Support Centre program.

Isabel’s story of caring with the right support

Isabel’s life changed almost immediately with the birth of her second daughter, Elise. Healthcomplicationsmeantthathernewborn needed round-the-clock care and supervision, and home soon became the hospital.

For many months, taking care of their daughter’s additional needs took up to 20 hours a day for Isabel and her husband. Even the less demanding days had to be planned from start to finish. Juggling numerous health appointments whilst ensuring the children were fed, bathed, engaged outdoors and enjoying themselves left little time for a personal life.

“When you become a carer as well as a parent, it detracts from everyone else,” Isabel shared.

“You can’t spend as much time with your husband or your own parents or your other child; it’s very all- consuming. There’s not much room for the spontaneous. There’s just a lot of planning involved to get through our day”.

But gradually, things started to get better.

Elise excelled in therapies and her curious personality began to shine through.

Isabelalsogainedaclearerunderstandingof her role as carer and started connecting with Carer Gateway and other community support programs. Carer Gateway provides essential support to carers, addressing the common issues of isolation, exhaustion and depression. Its free services, including counselling, emergency respite, and peer support, significantly provide relief and assistance to the carer improving their wellbeing.

For Isabel and her family, small milestones, like being able to make it down to the shops as a family, marked steady progress in Elise’s development.

And with Elise getting stronger, Isabel has got better at finding opportunities to take

little breaks, such as enjoying a quiet meal or catching a coffee with a friend.

“It’s taken a lot of work to kind of get her from where she was a few months ago to

where she is now. I want to keep doing that role up until she’s at the point where she can just go to playgroup or kinder or whatever, without an issue.

“It’s because I know I can give her the best chance at life by pouring in that time to her now and by pouring in that effort, it’s because I know her best.”

A day to create a more inclusive world for women

As the Member for Kororoit, I am proud to have celebrated International Women’s Day this year with a morning tea at our electorate office in Caroline Springs. It was a wonderful opportunity to come together and reflect on the importance of women’s rights, safe spaces, and the significance of celebrating this day. During our morning tea, amidst laughter and camaraderie,Ihadtheprivilegeofpresenting

awards to exceptional women who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, resilience, and dedication to empowering others. It was a moment of recognition and appreciation for their tireless efforts in shaping our community.

Ithasbeen101yearssincewomenwontheir right to stand for the Victorian Parliament and for the first time ever, women make up half of the Victorian Parliament. It serves

as a reminder of the progress we’ve made in advocating for gender equality and the work that still lies ahead.

The theme for International Women’s Day 2024 being celebrated this year on 8th of March is ‘Inspire Inclusion’. It’s a powerful message that resonates deeply with me. When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we create a better world—one where every woman

feels a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. Together, let us continue to inspire inclusion and create a more inclusive world for women. Because when women are included, our communities thrive, and our society becomes stronger!

Happy IWD everyone!

Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch

Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch celebrates International Women’s Day with staff and constituents.

Kathy helps change patients’ lives one smile at a time

Inside a room at KND Denture Clinic in St Albans, dental prosthetist Kathy Danoucaras consults her patients, creating a plan for their dentures.

There is a Dux plaque on a wall showing Ms Danoucaras’ achievement of being the best student in her prosthetist class in 1992.

“I love my job,” Ms Danoucaras said.

“By changing people’s smiles, I see people feel more positive about themselves, and it has been very rewarding for me.”

Ms Danoucaras, the director of KND Denture Clinic, is a highly accomplished dental professional.

She completed her apprenticeship at The Royal Dental Hospital Melbourne in 1988.

Fluent in Greek, Ms Danoucaras has also managed to connect with Greek-speaking patients and care for them.

Ms Danoucaras said her father, Tony, a dental technician, inspired her to pursue the profession that has traditionally been dominated by men.

When Ms Danoucaras was 13 years old, she often visited the laboratory where her father worked. She would sit on a laboratory bench, watching her father do his job. Her father also shared foundational knowledge and skills with Ms Danoucaras, contributing to her early expertise.

Her initial journey was not without a challenge.

Ms Danoucaras failed the first time she took the dental prosthetics course entrance tests. She decided to re-sit the tests for a second time and passed.

“When I first started my job, I was one of the only few females,” she said.

And when her son was still young, she often did two shifts in one day to secure time to care for her him.

Now, Ms Danoucaras has been in the

industry for 40 years.

“Throughout my career, I’ve never felt like not coming to work,” she said.

“It’s not just about business for me. I listened to my patients,” she said.

With two other prosthetists, Ms Danoucaras has owned KND Denture Clinic in the St Albans area for more than 25 years.

The clinic, whose prosthetists are members of The Australian Dental Prosthetists Association (ADPA), provides services including full dentures, implant retained overdentures, cobalt chrome/metal dentures, partial dentures (acrylic), sports mouthguards, and repairs and relines.

The clinic accepts patients without a referral for treatment.

In her free time, Ms Danoucaras enjoys going to a gym and swimming to keep fit. She also likes walking accompanied by her little Jack Russel dog.

Last year, despite her busy working schedule, Ms. Danoucaras did a ’10-day Walking Challenge’ for Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre to raise funds for cancer research. She walked for 150 km during these ten days. Friends and family donated more than $5,000 to support her cause.

She also held a Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser at Keilor Football Club last year for cancer research.

Her accomplishments go beyond her academic and professional achievements.

“I’m proud of my job,” Ms Danoucaras said.

“I certainly do recommend more women getting involved in this industry.

“Some patients prefer to see me because they feel more comfortable to be treated by a female dentist prosthetist.”

Parisianne

Anne

Dental prosthetist Kathy Danoucaras at work. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 390521_03

Looking after the health of women in the west

IPC Health wishes the women in our communities a wonderful International Women’s Day!

The theme this year is to inspire inclusion and as an organisation, we’re committed to maintaining a barrier-free and welcoming environment for all members of our diverse communities.

As your local community health care provider in the west, we offer a range of integrated services to improve and support your health and wellbeing. Our dedicated women’s and young people’s health nurses not only provide important health care services, they also work with clients from a number of diverse backgrounds offering dignity, privacy and a safe space for clients. From practical advice on cancer screening, menopause, periods and sexual health to family planning, continence advice and free condoms, our nurses provide confidential care and guidance where you can about talk anything without judgement!

Our nurses have recently rolled out self-collection cervical screening tests. This small change has had a big impact for our clients, especially those from refugee backgrounds.The traditionalway of clinician-assisted collection can prove to be confronting or feel embarrassing, resulting in avoidance of these important health screens.

“The use of self-collection tests has made a big difference for clients who may have been undecided about coming in for an appointment. Now we can provide guidance and assurance and they can perform the collection in a time and place where they’re most comfortable. It’s another example of community health care offering inclusive services and workingwithour clients,“ says nurse Jo from the women’s and young people’s

health service

With six campuses across Melbourne’s west, we work with you to identify your individual health and wellbeing goals. Our extensive community partners ensure that you

receive the right care tailored to your needs. From mental health and aged care services to volunteering and GP clinics, we also provide outreach, support groups and group classes.

Visit our website at www.ipchealth.com. aufor more information and get in touch on 1300 472 432 to see how we can move your health and wellbeing journey forward together.

IPC Health dedicated women’s and young people’s health nurse Jo.

Leading Ladies of Real Estate

International Women’s Day celebrated on the 8th March is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. We wanted to take thisopportunitytorecognisetheremarkable women within our own lives and the Ray White Taylors Lakes family.

DirectorPeterTravlosisproudtohighlight theimportantwomeninhislife,includinghis mother, sister and daughters. Their influence and support have undoubtedly played a vital role in his life.

At Ray White Taylors Lakes, we are

committed to supporting and championing the women in our office as they pursue their personal and professional goals and create an environment where every woman feels empoweredtobecomeleadersineveryaspect of their lives.

We also want to acknowledge the Corporate Team at Ray White, who organise a variety of events throughout the year aimed at inspiring and empowering women across our organisation. In conjunction with the industry wide initiative Leading Ladies of Real Estate, Ray White aims

to build a community that supports and inspireswomenintheindustrytochasetheir potential.

The Leading Ladies of Real Estate focuses on three key areas: Recruitment and Empowerment: Amplifying the presence of women and attracting outstanding female talent specifically in the Real Estate Industry.

CareerAdvancement: Offering pathways for career development through showcasing journeys from some of the industry’s most successful women.

LeadershipOpportunities: Nurturing and endorsing women to step into leadership roles within the industry.

This year on the 15th March 2024 the women in the Ray White Taylors Lakes team are looking forward to attending the seminar focused on empowering women to take control of their financial wellbeing and create a secure future for themselves.

Happy International Women’s day to all our family, friends and clients.

Some of the Ray White Taylors Lake team: Shayla Azzopardi, Helena Krilis, Amanda Micallef, Mieka Parkinson, Nuria Celentano, Angela Travlos-Tsonis, Angela Criscione, Teresa Nguyen, Cristina Maccarrone and Keely Bryant.

Women leading by example

International Women’s Day (IWD) has long been a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, while also marking a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. The theme for IWD 2024 is Inspire Inclusion, which two leading women in the west know all about as Jennifer Pittorino discovered.

As mum to two young girls, Macedon Ranges councillor Annette Death takes pride in being a role model for them and the next generation.

Annette was elected to Macedon Ranges Shire Council in 2020 following a desire to be a “voice for our local community”.

In 2022 she was elected mayor for the first time and was re-elected mayor in 2023.

“I really enjoy being an active member of the community and after talking with different people, I realised these were some real key issues that people were concerned about,”Annettesaidofherdecisiontodevote herself to local government.

“So I wanted to run for council to be a voice for our local community.”

Her time in local government has allowed Annette to demonstrate that women can succeed in leadership positions.

“I am very fortunate to be in a leadership position as a female because I feel you can lead by example,” she said.

“Being a female, many of my female friends have learned so much about local government through that process, including my children.”

Not many children get to watch their mum at work, but Annette has found bringing her girls, aged seven and 10 to work, a positive experience each time.

“I do think they know a great deal about local government that many other children wouldn’t,” she said.

“They’ve been able to join me at council meetings and come out to events and see me in public speaking positions.

“It’s really motivated them and inspired them to be confident in public speaking and to think about important local issues.”

Finding balance in life can be hard enough as it is, something Annette has experienced being a mum and mayor.

“There are cons that come with being in a leadership position with young children is really the caring responsibility,” she said.

“And also finding the time for my partner, because being mayor many of the events and meetings take place out of hours.

“...So it’s quite a bit of time out of the house in the evenings and on weekends.”

Out of the house at night has come with freedom in other aspects of life. Annette now has flexibility during the day which she has embraced.

“I’ve been available for school drop off and pick up which has been really nice,” said Annette.

“Something I haven’t been able to do in other career roles.”

Annette said the team at Macedon Ranges acknowledge that IWD is an opportunity to raise awareness around gender issues and promote the work that women are doing globally.

“Inclusion is a really important part of the gendered conversation,” she said.

“Particularly around intersectionality and thinking about how we can get people from a variety of different backgrounds and for it and different females from different cultures involved in all elements of our society.”

Annette said she has been fortunate to have been surrounded by many women in leadership roles during her career.

“A highlight for me being mayor, are the other female leaders that I’ve been able to meet,” she said proudly.

“At Macedon Ranges three out of four of our executive leadership team are women and I’ve been empowered by that.”

Learning and growing from other women in leadership roles, Annette has learnt to be kind to herself in her journey.

“Be kind to yourself. If you’re passionate about what you’re doing, you will make a

‘‘ Being a female, many of my female friends have learned so much about local government through that process, including my children ’’

- Annette Death

difference,” she said.

“We can add layers of expectations when we’re in leadership roles around performing well.

“And then being a parent and being a partner it is really important that you acknowledge the great work that you’re doing because you can feel stretched across all those different roles.”

Passion for her community and helping women is something important to Melton resident and chief executive of Djirra, Antoinette Braybrook AM.

Renowned Aboriginal community controlled organisation Djirra delivers holistic and culturally safe family violence services to Aboriginal people who are experiencing family violence or have experienced it in the past.

“Djirra works with Aboriginal people across Victoria who are experiencing, or at risk of experiencing family violence, over 98 per cent are Aboriginal women and their children,” she said.

As an Aboriginal woman leading a specialistservice,AntoinetteistreatingIWD as a time to reflect on the lack of inclusion of Aboriginal women.

“There’s a long history of Aboriginal women not being counted or included through International Women’s Day movements and events,” she said.

“For me, IWD provides an opportunity to bring voice, visibility and amplify our unique experiences when it comes to family

violence, incarceration and child removal.”

For more than two decades Antoinette has dedicated her time to Djirra, her true passion.

“I have been the chief executive for 21 years, this is my life,” she said.

“It’s not work as such. I always say Djirra is in my blood.”

The past year was a big one for Antoinette, with the launch of a new service in Melton, and the defeat of the Voice Referendum left her with a lot to reflect on.

“Since the failed referendum, I have decided that I’m not going to do things the same as I have done previously, this is a new way for me,” she said.

“I am going to focus on the six million people who voted yes for Aboriginal recognition and listening to us. I remain in the yes. Djirra remains in the yes.”

Looking forward, Antoinette has big plans for the future of Djirra and has faith that young women can follow in her footsteps.

“Through my career, I’ve had many incredible Aboriginal and non Aboriginal men and women support me in my journey to Djirra,” she said.

“One bit of advice is make sure you keep those people close to you, that you trust and who you know want to invest in you.

“Be strong in your culture and identity and never doubt that. Set some ambitious goals which will keep driving you forward.”

IWD will be celebrated at a wide range of locations across the west on Friday, March 8.

‘‘ IWD provides an opportunity to bring voice, visibility and amplify our unique experiences when it comes to family violence, incarceration and child removal ’’

- Antoinette Braybrook

Annette Death, and inset, with her daughters Alma and Valda.

Antoinette Braybrook AM.

From the field to our hearts

By Sydenham MP Natalie Hutchins

Sporthastheuniqueabilitytouniteus,divide us, evoke emotions, and inspire generations. It feels like just yesterday that our nation was captivated by the awe-inspiring performance of the Matildas as they smashed gender stereotypes, broke viewing records and captivated our collective imagination.

Their journey wasn’t just about victories on the field; young girls like my granddaughter were watching and believing that they can one day realise their own dreams. The Matildas’ value of inclusivity resonates deeply, echoing the sentiment of this year’s International Women’s Day campaign theme: “Inspire Inclusion.“ In a world where differences too often divide us, the spirit of inclusivity reminds us to celebrate women’s achievements, resilience, courage, and determination.

Across the Sydenham district I am so proud to witness a culture of women’s empowerment, equality and inclusion within our sports clubs. Local heroes like Hillary Pollock of the Taylors Lakes Football Club who tirelessly advocated for female-friendly facilities, ensuring that future generations of players feel valued and respected. Monika Palczak of the ETA Buffalo SC not only shines on the field but also off it, rallying club support and fostering a sense of belonging for all. And then there’s Anne-Marie Kilman, whose dedication to the Keilor Football Club exemplifies the true essence of community spirit,spanningnearlytwentyyearsofservice.

These remarkable women are just a handful ofthemanyotherswholeaderwithinourlocal sports community and often do so behind the scenes. Their commitment and passion serve as inspiration for a more inclusive future for all.

AswecelebrateInternationalWomen’sDay, let us honour these local gamechangers and renew our commitment to supporting young women and girls both off and on the field.

That’s why visible, equal acknowledgement of women’s achievements is a key part of Victoria’s new gender equality strategy and action plan, Our Equal State – which I was proud to launch as the Minister for Women. Our equal state lays out a roadmap for the Victoriangovernmentoverthenextfouryears of action and commitment to gender equality. Byelevatingthecontributionsofwomenofall backgrounds and experiences, this helps open the door for the next generation of women leaders and role models.

If you’re a local woman who volunteers, works or plays sport I invite you to join me to celebrate IWD on March 8, 10-11.30am at the Keilor Golf Course.

Happy International Women’s Day to all the incredible women who inspire us to dream big and make our community a more equal and resilient place to call home!

RSVP or further information: Natalie. Hutchins@parliament.vic.gov.au, along with the following information, guest name and residential address and any dietary requirements

Natalie Hutchins. (Supplied)

Boost for federal food funding

By Cade Lucas

Charitiesacrossthewesternsuburbswillshare in $1.6 million in federal government funding to help them provide emergency food relief.

The funding announced last week is part of the $14.4 million Emergency Relief and Food Relief package delivered nationally to providers of essential items, such as vouchers, food, and clothing.

The charities in Melbourne’s west to receive funding are Sacred Heart Mission, Australian Multicultural Community Services, Community Information & Support Victoria,

The Salvation Army, Uniting, Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency Co-operative, CatholicCare and Anglicare.

Anglicare Victoria’s Emergency Relief Services Coordinator for the western suburbs, Suzanne Keil, said the funding was a welcome response to the increase in families and working Victorians who were reaching out to the agency for help.

“Weknowfamiliesinthewestarefeelingthe crunchasthecostofeverythingrises,withour metro emergency relief programs seeing a 40 per cent jump in new families and individuals asking for our help,” Ms Keil said.

“Alotofthesefamilies,about70percent,are private renters coming to Anglicare Victoria for help after a year of frequent increases and high rents. Many people we see can’t afford their rent, but they can’t afford to move, so in desperation they find themselves depending on Emergency Relief support to survive.

“About one in every three people we’re seeing have energy bills they can’t pay or are falling behind on payment plans because they can’t cover rising energy costs. One family said the other day they just don’t turn on their air conditioner anymore. We’ve had some absolutely sweltering days in the west this

Ready, set, read: More books for kids

Kids across Brimbank are preparing to put their heads in books ahead of the 20th annual Premier’s Reading Challenge.

Brimbank mayor Cr Ranka Rasic recently met with Sydenham MP Natalie Hutchins at the Sydenham Library for the launch of the challenge, and to celebrate funding for the library.

Mayor Rasic said the funding enables Brimbank Council to support schools and students with resources and books.

“The $25,000 state government grant will helpustoprovidemorebooksforchildrenwho are reading as part of the Premier’s Reading Challenge. Reading is a life skill which can improve the social and economic outcomes of individuals and the community,” she said.

“Children in Brimbank can access reading materials that have been written specifically for them. Reach out to your school if you or your child wants to take part in the Premier’s Reading Challenge 2024.”

The Premier’s Reading Challenge engages and encourages children and students to read a set number of books and record their efforts online.

Since the challenge first began in 2005, more than 4.3 million students have read over 60 million books.

If you have a child who would like to participate in the challenge, speak to your school for more information.

Gerald Lynch

summer, but the stress of what it would cost themtoruntheairconwastoooverwhelming.” Anglicare, like the other charities receiving funding, operates throughout the western suburbs, including in Wyndham, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay and Maribyrnong.

Susan Keil said anyone in those municipalities who was struggling to put food on the table and make ends meet, should get in touch.

“We can connect you with all kinds of support, from that emergency relief to financialcounselling,mentalhealthandmore. We’re here to help.”

Community grants open

The next round of the Dysons Community Grants program is open in March.

The Dyson Group of Companies, incorporating the legendary Cobb and Cobrand,isrunningthegrantsprogram for the fourth year.

The program was established to provide grants in support of the many sporting, educational, welfare and community groups around Victoria, and to date more than 80 grants have been distributed.

Program manager Grant Deacon said the program aims to support a range of community-based organisations at grass roots level. “The Dyson Group is very happy to be able to support so many community groups,“ he said. “We are pleased that our grants can make a difference to so many people who work and volunteer with these groups by helpingthemwiththeirspecialprojects.”

There are two rounds of grants annually, each with $10,000 available with maximum grants of $1000.

Eligible organisations include pre-schools, primary and secondary schools, sporting clubs, not-for-profit groups, charities, welfare agencies, local societies and volunteer emergency services.

Mr Deacon said so many community groups rely on volunteers to deliver their services. “We are so grateful for their work and excited to be able to support them. The applications we receive demonstrate the aims and achievements of so many hard working people.”

The grants program will open on March 1 and run to March 31.

Details: http://dysongroup.com.au/ about/community-grants

Sydenham MP Natalie Hutchins, Audrey, Amelia and Brimbank Mayor Ranka Rasic. (Supplied)

Zoo welcomes rare species

Werribee Open Range Zoo is celebrating the birth of five precious scimitar-horned oryx calves – a rare species of antelope that was once teetering on the brink of extinction.

Thecaramel-coloured,wobblyleggedcalves have all been born in the last month and are slowly finding their feet on the zoo’s vast Savannah.

Werribee Open Range Zoo Savannah keeper Katie Jones said the new arrivals are a major conservation success as the species was extinct in the wild until December last year.

“Thankstointernationalbreedingprograms like the one we have at Werribee Open Range Zoo, numbers of this precious antelope have been steadily increasing after the species was declared extinct in the wild in 2000 by the ICUN Red List of Threatened Species,“ Ms Jones said.

“Thesenewcalvesarestilltinyandadorable, and they’re settling in so well with the rest of the heard.“

As the calves grow, zoo visitors can see them sitting together in a creche group, learninghowtowalkontheirwobblylegs,and evenrunningaroundwiththe’zoomies’inthe afternoon.

The calves are named after areas in Chad wheretheirspeciesnowsurvives.Theirnames are Dababa [pronounced Dahba-bah], Kobe [Koh-bee], Tibesti [Tib-es-tee] and Salali [Sah-lah-lee] - with the most recent calf still to be named.

Ms Jones said the calves will rapidly change in appearance as they grow.

“Lucky for the mothers, oryx are born with very tiny horns, which you can barely see,“ Ms Jones said.

“As they become adults, the ribbed, sharp horns will grow to curve all the way to their backs, which they use for scratching, protection from predators, sparring

and courtship.“

Scimitar-hornedoryxwereoncewidespread, with an estimated one million roaming across North Africa. However, overhunting, habitat destruction and competition with domestic livestock eliminated the antelope from their natural range by the early 1990s.

After international breeding efforts by more than 200 zoological institutions,

oryx were down-listed to endangered, with approximately 600 individuals now thriving in a protected reserve within Chad.

Werribee Open Range Zoo visitors have an opportunity to see these precious oryx calves each day and also after the sun sets during the Sunset Safari experience, which is running each Saturday from 5.30pm to 9pm until March 9.

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

Girl Guides

Brimbank District Girl Guides is inviting locals to come and try guides before committing to join. Girls aged 5-18 and adults are invited to enjoy the fun and friendship of guiding.

■ Carolyn, 0418 536 084

Sunshine Repair Cafe

Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Cafe in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.

■ sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082

Al-Anon Family Groups

Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected.

Confidential meetings held at the Sydenham Neighbourhood Centre (rear of library) every Wednesday from 1-2.30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary.

Card games

Love playing the card game 500? Card games are played every Monday from 7-10pm at the Sunshine RSL offices, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine.

■ Leisa, 0425 768 808

Keilor Day View Club

The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies.

■ Robyn, 0425 387 880

Palliative volunteers needed Mercy Palliative Care is looking for volunteers to visit palliative care patients in their homes to offer social support.

■ 9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au

Deer Park Lions Club

Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park.

■ Michael, 0417 307 572

Sunshine Community Brass

Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays from 7.30pm.

■ Andrew, 0419 444 620

St Albans senior citizens

St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day.

■ Roma, 0435 991 064

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

(Damjan

from 7pm.

■ rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

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/

Seniors lunch

Deer Park Branch of National Seniors Australia hosts a lunch on the third Friday of each month at different venues. The group also arrange activities each month, sometimes to the theatre, morning melodies, train or bus trip. The group also holds a general meeting at The Club in Caroline Springs on the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm. Locals are invited to join in for lunch or just attend the meeting and make new friends.

■ Pamela, pcostello46@hotmail.com

Business workshop

Brimbank council is holding a practical workshop is designed to help small business owners plan their marketing for

the coming year on March 5. It is tailored to suit small businesses and provides a lean approach to marketing. This is a hybrid event so please indicate when registering whether you will be attending ’in person’ or ’’virtually’.

■ https://ow.ly/7l9450QBwxv

Smart garden

In this My Smart Garden event, Edible Eden Design’s Karen Sutherland will teach you how you can create habitat for animals in your own garden, how to increase your garden’s biodiversity, and the importance of garden biodiversity. The event is online on March 5 from 7pm.

■ https://ow.ly/A7oA50QBwyL

Food, culture, community Delight your taste buds and be inspired. Embrace the richness of culture, diversity, traditions and community through the universal language of food. Join ‘Melburnian of the Year’ Kon Karapanagiotidis, Jaclyn Crupi, Hamed Allahyari and Nornie Bero for an evening of conversation in the opening night of the Brimbank Writers and Readers Festival on March 14 from 6.30-8pm.

■ https://ow.ly/nYVW50QBwA9

Garden show

Team up with your neighbours and friends and showcase the fruits and

vegies triumphs from your gardens at the annual flower and garden show hosted by our local gardening experts from the Sunshine Golden Age Garden Club. The club is seeking entries from community members to bring their best flowers, fruits, vegetables, pot plants, photographs, cookery, handcrafts to enter into the colourful display. Community welcome to come and view the displays and share your ideas with fellow garden enthusiasts. Free admission and refreshments available.

■ https://ow.ly/RUft50QBwIn

Reusable goods

Declutter your home, help someone in need and support a more sustainable future by being part of the Brimbank

Reusable Goods Drop-off Day. Brimbank residents can conveniently drop-off their unwanted household items for reuse at this no charge event on April 20 from 9am-2pm at West Sunshine Community Centre.

■ https://ow.ly/kQCw50QBwKU

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of science teacher Sharelle Brownbill, who has been given a $10,000 grant to further her STEM studies.

Janevski) 391167_01

QUICK

ACROSS

1, 19-down Author of Alice'sAdventuresin Wonderland (5,7)

4 Practical (9)

9 Controller of meeting (5)

10 Ship’s petty officer (9)

11 Birds of prey (6)

12 Severe or harmful (8)

14 Makes a good point (10)

15 – de toilette (3)

17 Extraterrestrial craft (1.1.1)

19 Black and white (10)

23 Period of instruction (8)

24 Protozoan (6)

26 Music-makers (9)

27 Soldier of Hebrew Bible (5)

28 Replicated (9)

29 Sham (5)

DECODER

DOWN

1 Cabinet (6)

2 Argue noisily and angrily (7)

3 Waitstaff (7)

4 Bars (4)

5 Extremely greedy (10)

6 Govern incompetently (7)

7 Acrobatic apparatus (7)

8 Interpret (8)

13 Group of owls (10)

16 Rump (8)

18 Perfect (7)

19 See 1-across

20 Member of ancient Germanic tribe (7)

21 Breastbone (7)

22 Somewhat (6)

25 Utilised (4)

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

Today’s Aim:

19 words: Good

28 words: Very good

38 words: Excellent

No. 175

WORDFIT

3 LETTERS AID

4 LETTERS ARIA BIRD BYES COST DEEM FEDS HEAD PEWS PROD SEEP SLUM SPED STUD TSAR WETS

5 LETTERS ACUTE AGREE AORTA ATONE AWAIT AWARE AZURE CARAT COMET DENIM DETER DOZEN

1 Who is the creator of comic strip CalvinandHobbes?

2 Myocardial infarction is the medical name for what bodily occurance?

3 Quentin Tarantino’s (pictured) 2021 debut fiction book is a novelisation of which of his films?

4 Belmopan is the capital city of which Central American country?

5 In which decade was the Rubik’s Cube invented?

6 Lion’s mane is one of the largest species of which marine animal?

7 The geometric shape torus can be colloquially described as what kind of shape?

8 The annual music festival Coachella is held in which US state?

9 What is the main flavour of the sweet spread kaya?

10 Novelist and poet James Joyce was born in which country?

No.

No. 175

No.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Name the five sports that make up the modern pentathlon.

2. Which two golfers have won the most PGA Tour wins, with 82 each?

3. Hayley Raso was shortlisted for which international soccer award in 2023?

4. What are the three disciplines of fencing, which share their name with the type of blade used?

5. The cork centre of a baseball is known as a what?

6. Which Melbourne Demons star was recently forced into retirement following a concussion?

Name the ATP tennis tournament hosted annually in Doha.

Which country did retired gymnast Nadia Comaneci represent?

Australian Isaac Cooper won gold at the World Aquatic Championships for which event?

Which former AFLW player is set to join Channel 7’s 2024 commentary team?

How many goals did the Matildas score in their first Olympic qualifier against Uzbekistan?

WWE recently made its return to Australia with its Elimination Chamber event held in which city?

13. Actor Tom Selleck was originally offered what kind of sporting scholarship to Montana State University?

14. What colour are the laces on an AFL football?

15. A set of golf clubs is limited to a maximum of how many?

16. What sport is played by the central characters in the US TV series Yellowjackets?

17. Which Norwegian figure skater and actor holds the women’s record for the most Olympic and World Titles?

18. What is the title of tennis star Andre Agassi’s 2009 memoir?

19. Who is the coach of Manchester United FC?

20. What sport is set to premiere at the 2024 Paris Olympics?

21. Which stadium hosted the recent Matildas Olympic qualifier against Uzbekistan?

22. NRL star Adam Reynolds recently signed a contract extension with which club?

Melton City Council has reviewed its Governance Rules, which are proposed for adoption at the Council Meeting scheduled for 25 March 2024.

23. Jordin Canada won the WNBL MVP award after playing with which team during the 2023/24 season?

24. The LIV Golf League is returning to which Australian city in April?

25. Which NBL team has a mascot known as Birdman?

26. Cricketer Nathan Lyon recently called for an end to Test Series of what length?

27. Competitors from which two countries will compete under the banner of Individual Neutral Athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics?

28. The Winnipeg Jets are a team in which sporting competition?

29. In what year did Essendon last win an AFL final?

30. Darcy Moore is the captain of which AFL club?

1. Fencing, swimming, equestrian show jumping, pistol shooting and cross country running

2. Sam Snead, Tiger Woods

3. Ballon d'Or Féminin 4. Foil, épée and sabre 5. Pill 6. Angus Brayshaw 7.

Toyota coupe in race to catch up

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

It has taken more than a decade but the Toyota 86 has finally been given the boost it has deserved, with the third iteration joining the GR Supra and GR Yaris to benefit directly from Toyota’s multi-championship-winning involvement in international motorsport with Toyota Gazoo Racing.

It has some catching up to do.

Evolving from the original 86, launched in Australia in 2012 signalling Toyota’s renewed commitment to sports-car engineering –remembertheSupra,MR2andCelicaGT-Four - the classic front-engine/rear drive coupe has picked up the pace of the past 10 years.

The GR86, says Toyota, builds on this heritage with improved performance, dynamics, technology and styling, while retaining the affordability and usability of its predecessor. There’s no doubting the engineering advances over the original. The GR86autowillhit100km/hinbetween6.3and 6.8 secs, depending on the model, according to the maker.

However, there are some question marks against the pricing and comfort and convenience of the new car. The GR86 comes in two grades GT and GTS in manual and automatic versions. The new GR86 is priced at $43,240,pluson-roadcosts,fortheGTwiththe GTS (the test vehicle) costing $45,390, more than $8000 over the previous model (from $32,180).

As for comfort and convenience, getting in and out of the car can be fraught. Not only is the vehicle close to the ground, the two doors, on the wide side to allow entry to the back seats,havelimitedopeningintightspotsfound in modern public parking, requiring a degree of suppleness. On the plus side, there’s enough space to take four specialist wheels for a day at the track.

The GR86 is covered by Toyota Warranty Advantage, offering five-year unlimited

kilometre coverage extending to seven-years on engine and driveline, with capped-price servicing for the first five years or 75,000km and each 12-month/15,000m service costing $280.

Styling

On the outside, the GR86 retains the outgoing model’s sporty shape and proportions, while Toyota Gazoo Racing’s global motorsport input has added cooling and aerodynamic improvements with a 0.276 coefficient of drag.

Longer and lower than the previous 86, the new GR86 features a long bonnet, sloping rooflineandtaperedrearendwithaprominent lip spoiler, giving the vehicle a low, planted stance. GR badging front and rear.

The GTS has the advantage of intelligent adaptive LED headlights with auto-levelling and headlamp cleaner, LED daytime running lights and rear fog lights. Dual exhaust pipes and GR badging front and rear, plus 18-inch black alloy wheels with 215/40R18 tyres, complete the sporty look.

Interior

The new GR86 is offered in two trim levels, the GT featuring black fabric upholstery, while the GTS wears two-tone Ultrasuede and leather-accented upholstery in black/silver or black/red. While offering four sports-style deep-set seats, the coupe is strictly a 2+2, with rear leg room something of a myth, even with average-size adults in the front.

The 237 litres of luggage space is enough, Toyotaclaims,tocarrythefore-mentionedfour spare wheels for a day of circuit driving, when the rear seats are folded, or to take luggage for a weekend away.

Infotainment

All variants feature an upgraded 8-inch multimedia infotainment system with DAB+ digital radio and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The screen is

Toyota GR86 GT Manual and Automatic:

Toyota GR86 GTS Manual and Automatic:

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

mated with a configurable 7-inch TFT colour LCDdisplaywithaTrackMode,designedwith help from Toyota Gazoo Racing’s professional drivers, to provide real-time readouts for circuit driving.

The six-speaker audio system is boosted by Active Sound Control for quality sound reproduction, hence occupant enjoyment.

Engines/transmissions

Powering the GR86 is a new 2.4-litre horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine producing a maximum of 174 kW and 250 Nm, at least 22 kW and 38 Nm over the 2-litre motor it takes over from. Pairing with the unit are either a six-speed manual or six-speed torque-converter automatic, with the latter featuring paddle shifters and a range of drive modes to tailor performance to driver preferences.

Straight-line acceleration is also improved, with the GR86 automatic able to sprint from zero to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds.

Safety

Standard equipment across the range includes seven airbags, reversing camera with dynamic guidelines, ABS brakes, vehicle stability control, tyre pressure warning and front/rear seatbelt warnings.

Automatic models add more active safety equipment including pre-collision braking with pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection,

parking support brake with rear parking sensors, active cruise control, and lane departure alert. GTS grades further add rear cross traffic alert and blind spot monitor.

Driving The naturally aspirated boxer engine provides linear throttle response and the ability to rev effortlessly up scale, with technologies including optimised D4-S direct injection helpingtoprovidesignificantlymoretorquefor better mid-range response.

With pleasant memories of the original 86, frankly, I would have traded in the auto transmissionofthetestvehicleforthesix-speed manual any day. More fun.

Toyota advises premium unleaded fuel and claims a combined urban/highway consumption of 8.8 litres per 100 kilometres. The test car recorded 10.7 litres per 100 kilometres in city traffic and 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the motorway.

Multiple advances have been made under the skin, including revisions to the suspension andsteering,withlarger-diameterfrontbrakes and chassis reinforcements that significantly improve torsional and lateral rigidity.

A focus on weight reduction and a lower centre of gravity result in sharper agility, handling and responsiveness. A limited-slip Torsen differential on the rear axle is designed to maximise handling.

Those wanting to take their GR86 to the trackcanalsochoosefromfivedifferentvehicle stability control settings ranging from full on to being completely switched off.

Summary The GR(-ed) Toyota 86, from the beginning, presented a few challenges. For a start there was the wallet-stripping price increase, then the need for human contortions to get in and out of the extra-low slung seating and finally, a smooth, if uninspiring, automatic driving experience. However, it’s getting there.

After a decade, Toyota is finally a serious sports car contender with its GR86 sports coupe. (Supplied)

Aaron Millichip. 392482_04

Shijit Chandran Poovathingal. 386617_14

Jonathan Burton 386617_03

Simeon Tuilagi. 389832_03

Matthew Krul. 389832_07

Matthew Grose.

Rasanjana Jayarathna.

Western Crusaders. 389832_01

Oliver Davidson. 392492_01

Dimantha Fernando. 392482_02

Gordon’s big decision

By Peter Howe

This month’s Don Deeble Sports Star Award nominee Mia Gordon might have some tough decisions to make over the coming years.

The 16-year-old is still in the Western Jets under 18 training squad hoping for a spot in their final team for 2024, but also part of Cricket Victoria’s Vic Metro under 16 emerging players squad.

The scholarship holder at Maribyrnong Sports Academy has spent three full years in the under 16 program and is hoping for a spot in the under 19 program.

“I really enjoy playing both sports and all of my coaches are very supportive of me playing the two sports at the moment,” Gordon said.

“Cricket is number one, but AFL is right up there.”

Gordon grew up playing both football and cricket for Caroline Springs, where she has played over 100 games in both sports for the club. She has now amassed over 240 games of cricket for her pathway clubs.

Gordon is growing up with three brothers and her parents, all of whom played cricket in the summer and Aussie rules football in the winter.

“My parents are great role models, they are the best, their message to all of us is to enjoy what you do and be the best you can be,” she said.

“I was eight years old when I realised I could get a Macca’s voucher if I played cricket and played well. That was my incentive to join up and play.”

Gordon was extremely disappointed to learn that the vouchers were not on offer after she joined but loved the game so much, she kept at it.

“I played in the Caroline Springs U11 boys’ team, I preferred to play against the boys because I saw it as more of a challenge early on,” she said.

Gordon was fast tracked and identified as a talented cricketer and was soon in the Victorian Metropolitan Representative under 12 team as a 10-year-old. She was then added to the under 14 and under 15 Youth Premier League Series. Soon the recruiters came knocking again and she was added to the Cricket Victoria under 15 Development Squad filling in a game as a twelve-year-old.

Gordon’s biggest break was to be selected in the first XI Premier Cricket team at Essendon Maribyrnong Park Cricket Club, aged 13.

“It was surreal,” she said.

“I was playing in a senior team with Australian cricketers, Molly Strano and Elyse Villiani. I put my quick progression down to

playing with strong mentors and under good people who only wanted the best for me.

“I have had so much support from Rob Ward, George Shaw, Libby Howe and Alison Whan as coaches from the beginning. My work ethic is to train how you play and my desire to be the best I can be for the team.”

Gordon has recently returned from the under 16 National Carnival in Hobart, where she opened the batting for Vic Metro and was the team’s most valuable player for the tournament.

“We won the championships for the first time in 14 years,” she said. “It was a great

experience and I wish I could play the high level games every week.

“Everyone in the team knew their role and understood the game plans. It feels great when those plans come to fruition and everyone in the team just clicks.”

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 swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.

Western Warriors are ready to go

The Western Warriors can’t wait for the Victorian Netball League championship season to get underway.

The Warriors are one of three new clubs that will take to the court in the VNL this season, with plenty of work having been done behind the scenes.

Warriors coach Kim Bailey said practice is good, but nothing beats getting on the court for the real thing. The season kicks off on March 6.

“It’s snuck up on us,” she said. “We had our practice match and tried some different combinations ang get the girls out on the court.

“We’ve been stuck with a few injuries with the under-23s and some girls came up from the development team along with the younger girls have a chance to step up and see how they go.

“Kiara Boyd was part of the under-15 SSV team last year, Liv Powell was at the City West Falcons and Charlee Duff-Tyler has been in a VNL environment as well.

“They were ready to step up.”

Bailey said the injured players including Brydi Hutchinson, Narena Baker and Leona Hristovska should all be fit for the first game of the season.

On the championship side of things, Bailey said they were working hard to make sure the team was set to go for round one.

The group has a mixture of youth and experience, with a number of players returning to the court.

“We’ve been working on defence a bit more with a couple of players having not played for a while.

“We’re getting them back to the level of required. We face Geelong in round two who have Zanna Woods which will be a really good test for them.”

Another getting used to being back on court is Vanessa Augustini.

Augustini, who grew up in Melbourne’s west, has previously played in the VNL championship division, while was also a training partners for Collingwood’s Suncorp Super Netball team.

Augustini is a late addition to the Warriors

Eagles likely out of the finals race

Sunshine Eagles are unlikely to play off in the Baseball Victoria summer league finals following back-to-back poor performances.

The Eagles were in a strong position but with just two games to go, following Saturday’s clash against Berwick (played after deadline), everything would need to go right for a finals berth.

Coach Stuart Clayton said it has been a tricky period for the Eagles with players being hit with injuries of varying degrees.

“There’s a lot of guys that are going down at the moment,” he said.

“I don’t know whether it’s because we’re playing so many games or what it is, we’re getting a bit older too and maybe just not recovering as quickly as what we used to.”

In last Tuesday’s game against Waverley, the Eagles narrowly lost 4-1, despite Jai Pouaka-Grego throwing another good game.

“Young fella Jai pitched a really good game, he was fantastic,” Clayton said.

“We made an error in the third or fourth innings and then they got a runner on and they then got a couple of hits back to back which gave them that extra couple of runs to put us away.

“We had our chances last week, if we had won on Sunday that would’ve put us within a game of Essendon (in fourth position) but having lost it kept us out of finals.”

Last time the Eagles faced Berwick, they dominated in a 22-1 win. Speaking before the game Clayton said he hoped history would repeat itself.

“Everything we hit we hit on the nose and went in the gaps, that was a freaky game that one,” he said.

“I’m pretty sure they’ll come out fighting this week. We’re looking to finish the season off with three wins and then go into next season with a positive attitude.”

side.

“I kept nagging her a lot,” Bailey said. “She’s coming back after having a little baby and some time off netball.

“She strengthens our attacking end and she played with Julia [Woolley] at Geelong. She has fitted in seamlessly.

“She still loves the game and has a passion for a game. It changes our structure and it gives us something different.

“With Simona Di Filippo and Ruby Shannon, it’s quite a mosquito fleet.”

The Warriors start their season on March 6 against Boroondara Express.

Bailey said there would be lot of excitement from the playing group.

“Getting to put on the dress and really excited to put on the uniform.

“There’s really good enthusiasm to see what we can do. You can do all the training in the world, but it’s not until game day you can see what we can do.

“Hopefully it’ll be good.”

Tara Murray

Mia Gordon. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Coach praises strong second-half performance

Green Gully is off to a good start in this year’s National Premier League season.

Last weekend the club had its second win from the first three games of the season, beating the Manningham United Blues 4-1.

With the score being 1-0 with the Cavaliers up at halftime, coach Stephen Downes said it was good to come out strong after the break.

“Wemadeafewchangesathalftimeandthe boys did well in the second half to come away with a victory,” he said.

“There’s still a lot to work on and improve but it was a good result going into Heidelberg on Friday night [after deadline], it gives us a good basis to kick on.”

The win against the Blues came after a disappointing 2-0 loss to Hume City in round two. Downes said it was good to see the maturity of the group shine through in the bounce back.

“It’s always good to win. In my post match comments after the Hume game I said, ‘I thought we performed well, we just didn’t take our chances which would have affected the outcome of the game’,” he said.

“It was a tough game but we performed well, we didn’t take our chances and we got punished in moments.

“It was definitely good to bounce back with a win because we’re a young group so it’s good for coincidence to have the ability to bounce back and not just stay and think about a defeat.”

One of the Cavaliers best performances so far this season has been new recruit Luca Tevere.

TeverecameacrossfromthePortMelbourne Sharks in the offseason and has scored in both of the Cavaliers winning games so far.

“He’s been very good,” Downes said. “We know Luca’s got quality.

“In the last three years I think he’s always played at a high standard at this level.

“Whenwebroughthimin,wewereexpecting big things from him, and we’re expecting even more to come from him as well because he’s got a lot of ability and if we continues the way he’sgoinghopefullyhegetsintodoublefigures thisseasonwithhisgoalcontributionsaswell.”

The Cavaliers played Heidelberg on Friday

night (after deadline), Downes said he was looking forward to playing under the Friday night lights once again.

Saints claim T20 title

By Tara Murray

After a disappointing Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division season, St Albans has still walked away with some silverware claiming the T20 title.

The Saints were crowned the kings of the shortest format on Tuesday night, defeating Grand United in the grand final.

Saints coach Shafraz Mohamed said it was nice to get some reward for their season.

“It is exciting since the team isn’t going to make finals, at least we get some silverware,” he said.

“We took it seriously. I’ve played in four losing T20 grand finals with Keilor.

“The format and the team we have we’re more suited to the shorter format. We have too many all rounders.

“I thought we had a very good chance with the quality we had.”

Grand United won the toss and decided to bat. The Gorillas finished 9-106 from their 20 overs with Hashan James top scoring with 36.

Arosh Gamage was the pick of the bowlers

for the Saints.

Mohamed said they were happy with that total.

“Our bowling is our strength,” he said. “ Even on Saturdays we’ve been able to restrict teams and are yet to bowl our 80 overs

“I’m not surprised we bowled well and kept them under par.”

The Saints batters were made to work hard for the runs. They would eventually hit the winning runs with an over to spare, finishing 7-107. Lihan Dulshan was the star with 38 not out off 36 balls to guide his side home. He was named player of the match.

Mohamed, who previously played against Grand United in the lower grades, said that Grand United had bowled and fielded well and bought the pressure they are known for.

While the Saints walk away with the T20 title,theywillmissfinalsintheseniordivision.

Thesidewassittinginseventhplaceheading into the final, a game and percentage behind fourth placed Aberfeldie.

Mohamed in his first season as coach of

the Saints said it was disappointing not to be featuring in finals action.

“We have about four occasions where the game was ours until the final session,” he said.

“Sydenham-Hillside made 129, Aberfeldie 140 and we missed out by four runs on an outright against Craigieburn.

“We were nine runs short against Sunshine United a couple of weeks ago. We needed our batters to dig deeper.

“Had those results gone our way, we would havebeensecondontheladderanditwouldbe a different outcome next week.”

The Saints finished their season on Saturday against Deer Park, after deadline.

Mohamed said the side would be better for the experiences next season.

“It’s been a new crew for me,” he said. “There’s been four new players and it’s been a bit of a task getting everyone to gel.

“It’s a work in progress and not something that I could achieve in a short period of time. “We’re only going to get better if everyone sticks together and plays to each other’s strengths.

“We’re looking forward to the weekend, it’ll beatoughchallengebutwe’relookingforward to it,” he said.

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WRFL

Glen Orden will not field a senior men’s team for the upcoming Western Region Football League season. The Hawks were unable to take the field in 2023 for the second time in six seasons and despite attempting to get one up and running for this season it has failed to do so. Instead the Hawks will attempt to field a ‘thirds’ side. The club announced Rod Williams as its coach for the next two seasons in February. An updated fixture is set to be released in the coming days.

WRFL

Northern Territory Football League star Braedon McLean has re-signed with Western Region Football League club Caroline Springs for the 2024 season. McLean plays for the Wanderers in the NTFL. He arrived at the Lakers last year due to a connection with Lakers star and former Wanderers player Josh Cubillo. Initially, he was going to be a fly-in player for the club but relocated to Melbourne and featured in 16 games across the 2023 season. McLean won the NTFL rising star award in the 2010-11 season.

EDFL

Deer Park has announced young-gun Josh Cooper has joined the club ahead of the Essendon District Football League premier division season. Having moved to Melbourne from Brisbane, Cooper is currently a listed player with the Northern Bullants in the Victorian Football League. Cooper is a product of the highly successful AFL Brisbane Lions academy having been in the program for the past eight years. Last year at age 17, he was elevated to the Brisbane Lions VFL program. He also represented the Allies and played in all games in the 2023 national championship carnival. Via social media the club said, “Josh is an elite runner and ball user on both sides of his body. He is also an excellent intercept marker and a great decision maker. His high work rate, height, and versatility will allow him to play numerous positions and roles in our team.”

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St Albans T20 title winning team (Supplied)

Liam Driscoll. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 347368_08

Final round win puts YCW into finals

There were more than a few nervous moments for Sunshine YCW on Saturday afternoon.

The YCWs needed to win their final round match against Melton Centrals and hope results went their way to play finals in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Russell Pollock Shield.

The YCWs did the first part of the job with a convincing win against Melton Centrals and then it was a waiting game.

“Anything can happen on the final day,” said secretary Rory O’Connor. “Everyone was on tender hooks.

“There were two games that we needed to go our way and they were the two games where there was no live scoring.

“One of our guys lives with someone that plays for Jacana. He got the word they had won.

“It was the Jacana game that ensured that we got into fourth spot, we were ecstatic there for a while.

“We had a function last night and everyone

was smiling and laughing and quite excited.”

Having just missed out on finals last season, there was a completely different feeling for the group on Saturday.

O’Connor said there was a lot of belief in the group and they were really close.

Against Melton Centrals, the YCWs put out a strong all round performance to beat the bottom side.

Centrals were bowled out for just 107, with Matthew Williams the pick of the bowlers with 4-29, while Heshan Umendrea took 3-8 off his 6.5 overs.

The YCWs openers got them off to a flier, making 73 for the opening partnership. With the platform set they were able to chase down the runs, finishing 3-111.

Usman Quddusi top scored with 52.

The YCWs now face minor premiers Donnybrook in the semi finals for a spot in the grand final.

Burnside Springs United will face Seabrook in the other semi final, both Saturday-Sunday

matches.

O’Connor said they know they have a challenge ahead of them.

“Anything can happen in finals,” he said. “We got a reverse outright against them a couple of weeks ago that we can make anything happen.

“They are a good side and they will probably be feeling pretty confident heading into finals after their season.”

The YCWs second XI is also playing finals.

Things off the field are going well for the club with a number of re-signings headed by captain-coach Lachie Lewin.

O’Connor said the re-signings showed they were on track with what they were doing.

“From a committee point of view, we’ve been doing a lot of work to create a club that people want to come to.

“One of the metrics of success is re-signing these guys. They are enjoying it.

“Who knows where this can end.”

Tara

Falcons go back-to-back

By Tara Murray

Caroline Springs has claimed back-to-back Victorian Turf Cricket Association women’s T20 titles.

The top side all season, the Falcons knew they would be in for a test against Westmeadows in the grand final.

The two teams were playing off in a third straight grand final and the Warriors had won the last match up between the two teams.

The Falcons first and got off to a nervous start and were in trouble at 2-9 early.

That brought Caitlin Pretty and My Yen Au to the crease.

The two slowly built a partnership before taking things on late, including 19 runs off the penultimate over, to finish 3-123.

Pretty finished unbeaten on 74 from 53 balls, while Yen Au was run out for 42.

That partnership would prove to be the difference in the match.

The Warriors started slowly also and were quickly in trouble at 3-8 and it would soon be 7-55.

Emily Brebner was able to stick around with opener Danielle Linton and the Warriors were finally able to put on a partnership.

It wouldn’t be enough, with the Warriors falling well short, finishing 7-94.

Kyah Marum took 3-14 from her four overs to be the pick of the bowlers.

Falcons captain Alisha Fowler said the two sides also have really good tussles against each other.

“Whether high scoring runs or low scoring runs it’s a good game,” she said. “We love playing you guys and we love the challenge and that rivalry and we can still come in and have a beer afterwards too,

“To our girls this has probably been 12 months in the making, a couple of new players join us this year which has been great.

“We put in a lot of hard effort, I’m so proud of each and every one of you.”

Gary Pretty came on as coach this season to help the Falcons take their game to the next level.

He was ecstatic to come away with the premiership.

Parkers through

DeerPark’shopesofback-to-backBowls

Victoria weekend pennant premier division titles remain alive.

After a disappointing first week of finals, the Parkers bounced back against Bundoora on Friday night in the preliminary final.

The Parkers though jumped out of the blocks and led 13-0 after six ends.

Bundoora got on the scoreboard in the seventh end and after 22 ends had managed to get the margin back to three.

From there Deer Park was able to get the margin back to eight after 23 ends. Throughout the rest of the match, Bundoora would bring the margin back under five before Deer Park would take it out again.

The Parkers were unable to break Bundoora which was still within four shots after 68 ends.

The margin was nine shots after 74 ends and Bundoora kept pushing, but fell short, losing 80 (12)-74 (6).

The Parkers won just one rink and it would end up being enough.

The deciding rink would be the one between Jay Bye-Norris and Josh Corless, with Bye-Norris winning 32-6 to guide his side into the grand final.

He said there was plenty of motivation after the result the last time the teams played when Westmeadows won a low scoring affair.

“There was a bit of motivation there,” he said. “We identified a couple of key players.”

Pretty said they had said going into the game that they would need 120 on the board if they were a chance of getting the win.

He said both his daughter and Yen Au had been able to stand up after a very early nervous moments after losing to early wickets.

Pretty said Caitlin knew how to stand up in the big moments. She was named best on ground in the grand final for a second straight year.

With the ball, Pretty said the aim was to halt the momentum of the Warriors which they did by taking frequent wickets to put them back under pressure.

Pretty said there was still plenty of work to do going forward as they look to further improve the women’s program.

He didn’t rule out the club trying to get two sides up next season if they could get the numbers.

Matthew Baus’ rink lost 22-15. Aron Sherriff’s lost 22-16 and Ryan Tainton’s rink lost 24-17.

The Parkers who are looking to go back-to-back will face Moonee Valley in the grand final on Sunday at the Dandenong Club.

Moonee Valley won the semi final between the two sides after getting off to a strong start.

It was a good weekend for the Parkers with their second side claiming the division 2, section 1 title.

Facing Werribee in the grand final, Deer Park 2 won 76 (17)-64 (1).

Ray Morrissey’s rink won 20-19, Neil Smith’s rink finished 18-all, Paul Dorgan’s rink won 16-11, while Andrew Myers rink won 22-16.

The Parkers will be in division 1 next season.

Theywillalsoplayinthesectionfinals starting this weekend, as the overall division 2 winner is crowned.

Caroline Springs premiership side (Tara Murray)

Murray Lachlan Lewin is leading the way for Sunshine YCW. (Ljubica Vrankovic)