Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 5th March 2024

Celebrate autumn

One of Moorabool’s biggest and best community festivals is returning on Sunday, March 17.

Ballan Autumn Festival is an annual celebration of local culture, creativity and community, and is one of the oldest regional country fairs in the shire.

Around 10,000 people flock to the event each year, and the Autumn Festival 2024 promises to be the best ever, with a central stage for entertainment, more artisanal market stalls, and a new seated and shaded dining precinct, along with the festival’s perennial crowd pleasers including the animal nursery.

Don’t miss the grand parade, and get up close and personal with an amazing selection of beautiful vintage cars, browse over 100 market stalls and enjoy music from the likes of The Gordon Gypsies, the Ballan Community Street Band, The Martini Set, and African Star Dance and Drumming Company.

Ballan Autumn Festival spokesperson Kevin Harper said the festival embodies the very essence of the Ballan community.

“It celebrates our diversity, creativity, and unwavering sense of respect for one another,” he said. “By showcasing the talents and contributions of our residents, the festival serves as a platform for unity and togetherness, highlighting what makes Ballan such a special place to call home.”

Wetlands a ‘mood-killer’

By Liam McNally

The wetlands in Thornhill Park are still a “mood-killer” for residents according to Thornhill Park Working Group member Matthew Pearse, who called on council to hold responsible parties to account for the second time on Monday, February 26.

Thornhill Park’s main wetland is a two-hectare area near the corner of Paynes Road and the Western Freeway.

In June last year Star Weekly reported that the wetlands were suffering from constant flooding and a lack of maintenance.

At the time Melbourne Water, which took

over responsibility for the wetlands from developer Wel.Co in late 2022, said a retarding basin was needed to ensure excess stormwater runoffcontinuedtoflownorthtowardsKororoit Creek,anditwouldbecompletedbyChristmas 2023. This would allow for landscaping works to begin the following autumn to address the maintenance issue.

MrPearsesaidthatinNovember,itseemedas if Melbourne Water’s project was taking shape, as flooding levels in the wetland receded, but, afterawetsummerflooding,isnowevenworse in some areas.

“Residents cannot use areas of the wetlands due to pathways being flooded, unsafe

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makeshift walking tracks have formed. The area is becoming an eyesore as Melbourne Water has not maintained the weeds, rubbish since they took over the area,” he said.

“Residentsdonotfeelsafewalkinginpartsof the area and dumpings are occurring.

“The current timeframe was autumn this year for construction works on the wetlands area in time for spring planting but that timeline is now redundant due to the water levels being at the heights they are.”

A Melbourne Water spokesperson said that the retarding basin was completed on time, but the issue was that significant rain slowed construction of a drainage channel that would

connect it to Kororoit Creek and help drain the wetlands.

“While significant summer rain has slowed our progress, once these are joined they will maintain water levels in the area,” they said.

“Weather permitting, we hope to complete this work in late April, early May so that we can turn our attention to landscaping, which we hope can be delivered over the course of the next year.”

In response to Mr Pearse’s public question at the council meeting, Melton council City Futures director said council will contact Melbourne Water to highlight the concerns relating to the wetland.

Melton Branch

1/265 High Street, Melton

9747 2337

Bacchus Marsh Branch

136 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh

Trading hours Monday to Sunday 7am to 4pm

Ballan Autumn Festival coordinator Mel Sheeley and artist who designed the post office sculptures Lou Callow. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 392051_01

$50 million hub one step closer

A $50 million new community services hub project has taken its next step after Melton Council voted on its masterplan report.

The Cobblebank Community Services Hub aims to provide a state-of-the-art space for a range of community, allied health, and education services in one area to help address critical service shortages across the municipality as well as providing office space for commercial tenants.

Threebuildingdesignoptionswerepresented aspartoftheCobblebankCommunityServices Hub master plan report, with a six-storey building estimated to cost $53,770,000 being the preferred option.

Festival organisers

Deirdre Cronin, Louise Scott, Brendan Hehir and Darren Lynch.

(Ljubica Vrankovic) 392053_01

Construction of the hub was originally planned to begin last year, however, council indicatedthattheExpressionofInterestprocess in 2022 received overwhelming interest from organisations and as a result, council reviewed the size and scope of the building.

Council now plans for construction to commence either this year or next, and have the facility operational by 2026.

Thereport,detailingthehub’sprogresscame before council at a meeting on February 26.

Councillor Bob Turner said the project has “been a while coming“ but it’s good to see it moving forward.

“It’s good to see something happening in the

near future there which is going to be badly needed,” he said.

The 5 Star Green Star building received interest from 18 prominent community service providers during the EOI process and has received “substantial interest” from 30 commercial businesses.

It will provide an accessible and affordable space to deliver important services like mental health and family services, as well as culturally specific services.

The hub will be located within the growing Cobblebank Metropolitan Activity Centre on the corner of Hollingsworth and Stadium Drives, close to the Cobblebank Stadium, the

172-year-old Easter tradition returns

The famous festival at “Victoria’s prettiest sportsground” is back this Easter Saturday, March 30.

The Blackwood Woodchop & Easter Carnival will kick off with it’s traditional street parade featuring floats, costumes, a brass band and Hetty the Hen, at 11am.

It will wind its way down to the Blackwood Recreation Reserve on the Lerderderg River for the annual woodchoppers competition as well as market stalls, food vans, family sports activities such as gumboot throwing, tug of war, a children’s zoo and a pet show.

The festival is stepping up its musical talent

this year with performances from blues artist C.W. Stoneking and Australian Celtic band Austral, who combine didgeridoo, Irish pipes, high-powered fiddling, journeying songs and energetic foot percussion.

There’llalsobeScotssingerFionaRossjoined by fellow songstress Christine Kydd, who’ll be visiting from Scotland, and more.

Blackwood Progress Association president Brendan Hehir said the Easter festival has its origins in the 1870’s when events included shooting, rock drilling, explosives and the “new-fangled sport of cycling”.

“The event has then been staged each

Copper theft closes park

Meltoncouncilhasexpresseddisappointment after a copper theft incident at Frontier Park in Aintree.

Copper was stolen from the park over the weekend of February 24.

Council said due to ongoing repairs and maintenance, the park will reopen no earlier than next week.

Power cables were cut in the main power supply, and the distribution board was damaged.

Power has been restored at the site using temporary distribution board while waiting on a replacement to be built, which may take a month.

Melton council Engineering and Asset Services manager Colin Marshall said it’s disappointing when community parks and facilities are the target of vandals.

“Council has restored power to the site but was forced to close to water play area and park to undertake repairs. We thank the community for their patience while repairs are underway.”

In late 2023, Council wrote to Victorian Crime Prevention Minister Anthony Carbines requesting advice on what was being done to minimise the risk of copper theft within Victoria, and request the Minister write to interstate ministers requesting they introduce similar laws to those in Victoria that regulate the sale of copper and other scrap metal to deter illegal activity.

The matter has been referred to police. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.

futureMeltonHospitalsiteandtheCobblebank Train Station. Council has secured $4 million from the state government’s Growing Suburbs Fund, and another application to the state’s Growth Areas Infrastructure Contribution has been submitted.

Melton mayor Kathy Majdklik said the Cobblebank Community Services Hub will be a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet the growing needs of the Melton municipality.

“This project ensures critical services can be accessed locally, promotes employment, supports business and sets up an ongoing revenuestreamforcounciltobuildon,”shesaid.

Services hub to help locals

Locals will soon have direct access to government services at the upcoming Hawke government services hub.

Theeventisdesignedtohelpresidents in Hawke access information and resources to assist them in navigating federal government agencies and will be held on Saturday March 16, 10am to 12pm at the Melton Community Hall.

It will be hosted by Hawke MP Sam Rae, and will include information on agencies such as Services Australia, the National Disability Insurance Scheme, the Australian Taxation Office and the National Broadband Network.

Mr Rae invited residents to come and ask questions, have a chat and learn more about the support services available.

Easter since 1902 - unless a war or pandemic Intervened,” he said.

“Now, the famous woodchop competition in its 72nd year and gold panning for the kids has replacedthecompetitivehandlingofdynamite.

“Tothecommunitythecarnivalisareminder of our mining and forestry history but also that, ever since the gold gave out, we have been a holiday town. We know how to host visitors year-round but we do it particularly well each Easter Saturday.”

Entry is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, and free for kids under 16. All activities and music are free.

“We’re making it easier for our community to get the help and information they need, by bringing together Centrelink, NDIS and more into one room,” he said.

Melton local Judy Pierce contacted Mr Rae’s office for assistance with Services Australia and her Home Care Package.

“I’ll be attending the Hawke government services hub to speak directly to the services I rely on,” Ms Pierce said.

Locals in Melton, Diggers Rest, Sunbury, Bacchus Marsh, Ballan and surroundsareinvitedtoattendtheevent to speak directly to the organisations and get further information on support available to them.

RSVP by calling Mr Rae’s office on 9070 1960, or by filling in the form at samraeforhawke.com.au/governmentservices-hub/

Help to boost west tree canopy

Schools across Greater Western Water’s (GWW) service area, including Melton and Moorabool, are invited to get involved in this year’s 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 Partnerships, Kessia Thomson is encouraging all 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. Visit Trees for Schools for further information on how to get involved.

The Trees for Schools program is a partnership between GWW, the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, ecoDynamics and local councils through the MoreTreesforaCoolerGreenerWestprogram and Greening the West.

Sharelle is STEMming for teaching greatness

Sharelle Brownbill from Parkwood Green PrimarySchoolhasbeenselectedasoneofnine recipients of the inaugural Toyota Community Trust Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Teachers Scholarship.

Recognised for her outstanding work in educating the nation’s young minds, Ms Brownbill will be awarded $10,000 to cover the cost of pursuing professional development courses in STEM-related subjects.

She was thrilled to be selected, and said she willusethescholarshiptobetterherknowledge.

“The scholarship money goes towards personal development training to enhance my skills further in the STEM area. I have chosen to focus on the technology side of STEM with my training,” she said.

“As a student of the public education system located in country Victoria, who has successfully gone full circle to a private sector career and arrived back in the public system classroom, I have experienced the value of a

supportive and STEM focused education.

“I have seen my own kids develop and succeed through the public education system bothinprimaryandsecondaryschoolwiththe support of highly skilled and focused teachers. I believe that all children have the right to be exposed to all areas of education, including STEM, with a high level of expertise.

Parkwood Green Primary School principal Bobby Kotevski spoke very highly of Ms Brownbill and her work.

“Sharelle is a fabulous science teacher whose passion for science is at the highest degree,“ he said.

“She possesses a combination of personal qualities, skills, and behaviours that enable her to guide and inspire our students and staff effectively.

“She is a great leader, and always has a clear vision of her program and can articulate it to motivate others toward the common goal.”

Gerald Lynch

TAFE achievers recognised

Two local residents were among 40 award winners recognised at the 2024 Federation TAFE Awards for Excellence at a gala event at The Mining Exchange in Ballarat, on February 29.

Recipients across 33 categories were recognised for excellence in their chosen areas of study and presented with certificates by guest speakers including Ballarat deputy mayor Peter Eddy.

The Federation TAFE Apprentice of the Year Award went to Certificate III in Engineering student and Ballan resident Jonah Moloney-Wise, while Melton resident Deanne Smith, who is studying a Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management, received the EJT Tippett Outstanding Achievement Award for outstanding achievement in and dedication to her studies.

Ms Smith worked as a graphic designer for two decades before enrolling at Federation TAFEtochangecareerandfollowherpassion for nature and the environment.

Ms Smith said winning the award was confirmation that changing careers to work and study in a field she cares about was the right one.

“Our cohort was fortunate to have incredible teachers that are passionate about sharing their knowledge, and they delivered content in a supportive, hands-on learning environment. I owe my success to having teachers that did all they could to help their students succeed,” she said.

“A decision to study at TAFE has now opened up a pathway towards higher education that I wouldn’t have thought possible a few years ago, and I am excited for what the future will bring.“

Federation TAFE deputy chief executive Darren Gray congratulated all winners and nominees.

“The award winners have shown excellence in pursuit of their studies and chosen careers and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make within their communities and industries.”

Sharelle Brownbill will use her $10,000 scholarship to further her STEM studies. (Damjan Janevski) 389161_01

Lizard holds up housing

By Liam McNally

The rediscovery of a thought to be extinct lizard has stalled plans for three major development areas in Bacchus Marsh.

Once commonly found in native grasslands west of Melbourne, Victorian grassland earless dragon numbers declined as a result of habitat loss and predators like foxes and feral cats.

The discovery of the earless dragon last year was the first time it had been seen in half a century.

ThestateandfederalgovernmentsandZoos Victoria began establishing a plan to ensure thespecies’recovery,includingaconservation breeding program.

At the time, state environment minister Ingrid Stitt called it an amazing discovery and an “opportunity to recover a species once thought lost to our state and the world”.

“With the help of our partners we will continue to fight the extinction of this critically endangered species – ensuring future generations can see and learn about this incredibly unique lizard,” she said.

While the exact location the lizard was found was not revealed, three major development areas in Bacchus Marsh - which the Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) was in the process of creating Precinct Structure Plans (PSPs) for - have all been paused.

Bacchus Marsh’s population is set to almost double by 2041 and early plans for these three development areas - Merrimu Precinct, Parwan Precinct and Parwan Employment Precinct - were planned to accommodate 33,000 new residents and 7,300 jobs.

The VPA said on its website the three areas have been identified as likely having habitat thatwouldsupporttheearlessdragon,andthe creation of PSPs cannot continue until more

information on the species and its habitat is collected and a clear conservation response has been determined.

A state government spokesperson said the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) is working with the VPA and the federal government to guide planning decisions and support species recovery.

“We’re continuing our conservation efforts following the rediscovery of the endangered

Victorian Grassland Earless Dragon last year - this includes the ongoing assessment of population distribution, habitat modelling and delivery of a National Recovery Plan in partnership with the Commonwealth,” they said.

Moorabool council chief executive Derek Madden also said council is working with the VPA and relevant departments to see what this means in terms of precinct structure planning around Bacchus Marsh.

‘Mr Lucky’ does it again

AMeltoncouplehasconfessedtofeeling a sense of ‘incredulity’ after discovering they’d bagged more than $680,000 in a recent TattsLotto draw.

Thepairheldoneoftheeightdivision one winning entries in TattsLotto draw 4443, drawn Saturday, February 17. Each division one winning entry scored a total prize of $683,814.78.

They came forward to claim their prize almost two weeks after the draw, one winner said she was still shell-shocked by the news.

“One word to describe it –incredulity,” she said.

“It’s still sinking in. We’re still awestruck.

“We were at home last Monday night and we were completing the usual routine. I decided to check our ticket and I couldn’t believe it.

“We had to call one of our daughters to come over and triple-check it for us. Once she saw it, she definitely believed it.

The unregistered division one winning entry was purchased at Melton Lotto & TSG on High Street.

Melton Lotto & TSG owner Phong Thai said he was lost for words when he heard his ‘lucky outlet’ had sold its 64th division one winning entry.

“I couldn’t believe that I had sold yet another division one winning entry so soon,” he said.

“Customersrefertomeas‘MrLucky’, and I sure do live up to the name! We have customers who travel interstate and beyond to purchase tickets from my outlet.”

The Victorian grassland earless dragon. (Zoos Victoria)

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New ZINE for youths

Moorabool Youth Services is holding a special afternoon tea to celebrate the launch of its inaugural Youth ZINE on March 15.

Youth ZINE is a self-published booklet produced twice a year that represents the voices and experiences of young people in Moorabool through their creative interests and passions.

This is done through poetry, short stories, photography, acrylic art, digital art and sketches – all put together in a colourful publication.

This edition six young creators contributed tothebooklet,anditwaseditedandsupported by the youth services team at Council - but

council hopes that in future volumes, young people will have a more active role in editing, layout design and general direction of the messaging behind the ZINE.

Moorabool mayor Ally Munari congratulated the six young people involved in publication.

“They have shown great creativity and passion for the project,” she said.

“I look forward to seeing the publication becomearegularfeatureoftheworkfacilitated by our talented youth services team.”

The Youth ZINE Launch will take place on Friday, March 15, from 4pm to 5.30pm in the James Young room at the Lerderderg Library.

Farming with the Western Renewables Link

Briefs

Police investigate ‘lewd act’ Police are investigating after a man performed a lewd act on a bus in Kurunjang in December. Police were told a man got on a bus and engaged in sexual activity in the presence of a child about 3.30pm on December 10. The 458 service was heading towards Kurunjang. Investigators have released an image of a man they believe may be able to assist them. He is perceived to be of Caucasian appearance, medium build, short brown hair and a short brown beard. He was wearing a red shirt, denim jacket, grey jeans and a dark cap.

Drink-driver nabbed

A 30-year-old Caroline Springs man had his vehicle impounded for 30 days at a cost of $932.40 and had his licence suspended for 12 months after allegedly being caught drink driving on February 27. About 8.45pm police received multiple triple-0 calls reporting a red Kia Sportage being driven in an erratic manner on Caroline Springs Boulevard. Police attended and after short time patrolling located the vehicle and intercepted it. After providing a positive preliminary breathe test the driver was conveyed to the Melton police station where they undertook an evidentiary breath test providing a reading of 0.168.

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Farming activities

Many farms currently operate under the 6,500 kilometres of existing transmission lines across Victoria. Within the proposed Western Renewables Link easement (up to 50m either side of the transmission line) permitted activities will include:

• Cropping

• Grazing

• Market gardens

• Orchards and horticulture nurseries (excluding buildings)

• Water storage dams (subject to sufficient clearances)

• Operation of irrigation equipment (rain guns not permitted)

Vehicles and equipment

We have designed the proposed Western Renewables Link 500kV transmission line with a higher minimum ground clearance of 15m. Vehicles and equipment of up to 5m in height will be able to travel and operate under the transmission line. Vehicles and equipment between 5m and 8.6m in height may be permitted under the Western Renewables Link subject to an AusNet safety assessment. Under existing AusNet transmission lines, vehicles and equipment with an operating height of more than 3m require a permit from AusNet.

Webinar sessions

You are invited to attend a webinar session to hear from specialists and ask questions about farming activities within and near the proposed easement for the Western Renewables Link.

Webinar 1 Monday 25 March 11am-12.30pm

Webinar 2 Monday 25 March 7-8.30pm

Moorabool mayor Ally Munari with the first ever Youth ZINE. (Supplied)

Melton takes a position on Gaza

By Liam McNally

The war in Gaza was the subject of debate among councillors and the public at a Melton council meeting on Monday, February 26, with council opting for an official position that “international matters is a responsibility of international leaders”.

The council meeting with Cr Lara Carli bringingamatterofurgentbusinessforwardin theagendaduetowhatshecalledanincreasing volume of correspondence to councillors.

Cr Carli had four points in her motion, that council “acknowledges the deep concern and grief some members of our community experience as a result of international

conflicts”, “condemns any conflict that result in the loss of innocent lives”, “recognises that council’s responsibility is in providing good governance and services for the wellbeing of the City of Melton community, and that representation regarding international matters is a responsibility of international leaders and the federal government”, and that council “will share correspondence received in relation to any international matters to our local federal Members of Parliament”.

Allcouncillorsvotedinfavourofthemotion, except for Councillor Steve Abboushi, who abstained. At the December council meeting heandCouncillorGoranKesichadspecifically called for ceasefires in Gaza.

Zonta is ready for IWD

Zonta Club of Melton is celebrating International Women’s Day (IWD) with a celebration dinner on March 14 at the Melton Country Club.

IWD is celebrated around the world on 8 March each year, and Zonta Club of Melton president Bianca Heaney said the club has been celebrating IWD for 26 years.

“IWD and Zonta go hand in hand to empower women world wide. Our mission and vision align,” she said.

“The theme this year is Inspire Inclusion. When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world,” she said.

“And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance and empowerment.

“So we invite women and men to join us

for dinner.”

The dinner from 7pm to 11pm will include the presentation of the Woman of Note award, which goes to a local woman who has made a significant contribution to the community.

The night will also feature guest speaker humourist, mathematician, journalist and author of more than 20 books, Kerry Cue.

Ms Cue is billed to deliver a talk that will take audiences on a journey through the challenges and quirks of womanhood.

Zonta International is a leading global organisation of individuals working together to build a better world for women and girls.

Anyone is also welcome to come along to Zonta Club of Melton meetings which are held on the first Monday each month.

Details: www.zontaclubofmelton.org.au

Councillor Bob Turner said Melton is one of the most multicultural cities in Australia and it’s council’s role to support all of them.

“I’m not able to take sides in conflicts and disadvantaging our residents from one side or the other…National issues should be left to the federal government,” he said.

CrAbboushisaidheunderstandsCrTurner’s position but believes that it’s important to stand up to segments of the community when itcomestoanyissueswhetherit’sinternational, national or local issues. Almost half of the 24 public questions asked of councillors at the meeting were about the conflict, centred around claims that council was failing to demonstrate solidarity with Palestinian people

andwasn’tdirectlyaddressingquestionsonthe issue from the community.

Council officers maintained that Melton residents are treated equally and made points similar to the position taken at the beginning of the meeting.

Councillor Ashleigh Vandenberg said she had also received a lot of emails in relation Palestine and Israel conflict.

“At all junctions I’m anti violence and anti war for it is the people that suffer the most as hospitals are filled with innocent people,” she said.

“As a First Nations woman I understand this issue and the complexities surrounding an outcome for everyone, but we need peace.”

22nd March 2024

From 10am

Melton Country Club - 28-30 Reserve Rd, Melton

Wednesday 20th March Helloworld Travel Bacchus Marsh 5367 5151

Zonta Club of Melton members Annette Pedersen, Janet Stewart, Lyn Hill and Jane Sultana with books that inspire them. (Jacob Pattison) 391545_06

West land the most affordable

Melbourne’s western growth corridor has taken the mantle as the city’s most affordable region to buy new land, with a median lot price of $365,000 during the December quarter according to a new report.

RPM Research, Data and Insight’s 2023 Victorian Greenfield Market Report revealed it was the first time in almost five years the west had claimed the title of most affordable of Melbourne’s four growth corridors, with a 5.2 per cent dip in prices seeing it overtake the northern corridor, where values lifted 2.4 per cent to $378,900.

The west accounted for the lions’ ‘share of

sales during the quarter, with 723 new lots changing hands, representing 41 per cent of alllandsalesacrossthefourgrowthcorridors – and eclipsing the north at 531 sales, south east at 379 and Geelong at 137.

The figure was boosted by strong demand in Melton, where sales lifted 10 per cent, making it the only Melbourne region to experience growth during what was a tough quarter across the board.

In the broader western growth corridor, sales declined five per cent, significantly lower than the 12 per cent fall in Melbourne’s new land market where a total of 1770

sales were achieved in the three months to December.

Despite the fall in activity, prices remained stable across Melbourne during the quarter, declining just 0.5 per cent to an average $386,900, while the median lot size shrank 1.1 per cent to 350 square metres.

RPM project marketing national managing director Luke Kelly said while overall it had been a tough end to the year, buyers had entered 2024 with renewed confidence.

“Purchasers are recognising they are now in the box seat to negotiate a good deal, with the sustained period of constrained sales

150-year-old church paves the way

St Bernard’s Church in Bacchus Marsh is turning 150 this year and as a part of celebrations they are inviting parishioners to have their names immortalised in pavers that could be on display for 150 years to come.

Catholics arrived to the Bacchus Marsh area in 1841, according to Margeret Love, a memberofthecommitteeorganisingthe150th celebrations.

“The first Masses were celebrated in a barn on John Leahy’s property in the area then known as Tipperary Flats,” she said.

“We think Irish Catholics, many from Tipperary, arrived at the top of Anthonys Cutting during times of good rains, to a view

that reminded them of home.”

More than three decades later, St Bernard’s was constructed on Lerderderg Street, Bacchus Marsh, in the backyard of what was once a Manor House built by Captain Bacchus.

Ms Love said she’s heard many stories of parish community during her anniversary research, including one Frank and Maria Candeloro feeling welcomed when they moved to the area in the 1950s.

When Maria was pregnant, parishioners Bill McHugh spotted her throwing cabbages up to Frank on the truck and lifting boxes of tomatoes. To convince her she shouldn’t do that Bill committed to riding to their field each

day as soon as he finished work and help Frank get the truck loaded for market.

Ms Love said that the Candeloro’s have been generous supporters of the church ever since.

As a part of St Bernard’s anniversary commemorations, engraved pavers are currently available to purchase to display on church grounds.

Committee member Ellen Xanthoulakis said that while the 150th anniversary will be a wonderful time to look back at the church’s incredible history, the pavers project will also give an opportunity to acknowledge that St Bernard’s is still very much alive and active today and look forward to the future.

favouring a buyers’ market,” he said.

“Developers are continuing to offer incentives in the order of five to 10 per cent, saving an average of about $30,000, and the selection of titled lots available means purchasers can have their choice of homesite and start building immediately if they desire.

“The combination of expected rate relief with falling inflation is likely to improve affordabilityandeasecost-of-livingpressures for everyday households.”

Six arrested over illegal tobacco

A Fraser Rise man was among six men 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 links to the group suspected of being behind a 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.

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.

“Wehavebeenveryclearabouttherisk this presents to the broader community and the potential for someone to be killed or seriously injured due to these fires.”

Federal budget wish-list released for urban fringe councils

Peri Urban Councils Victoria (PUCV) has made a pitch to the federal government for a bigger slice of the federal funding pie to avoid playing catch-up on essential community infrastructure.

PUCV is an advocacy group made up of representatives from different shire councils that interface metropolitan Melbourne and Victoria’s largest regional cities including Moorabool.

Moorabool councillor Moira Berry is a current member and former chair.

Last week, PUCV board members traversed the halls of Canberra, meeting with ministers, opposition ministers and local members of

parliament to press the case for increased investment in the fast-growing fringe regions.

PUCV chair, councillor Michael Leaney, said the peri urban region has a huge role to play in delivering solutions to Australia’s deepening housing crisis.

“However we need the enabling infrastructure to keep pace with growth,” he said.

“Our roads are already clogged by 66,000 residents commuting to employment outside the region, plus we accommodate 10.5 million tourist visitors per year.”

The peri urban councils adjacent to MelbourneandGeelongaresomeofthefastest

growing in the country, with a population that is expected to increase by more than 30 per cent by 2036.

Thesubmission2024-25makesthecasethat peri urban regions require critical investment in enabling infrastructure that is beyond the capacity of local government in a rate capped environment.

It calls for specific investment in civic and cultural infrastructure, job creation, digital connectivity and transport connectivity.

Cr Leaney said because peri urban councils are on the doorstep of both metro Melbourne and Victoria’s largest regional cities people rightfully expect a high standard

of infrastructure and services, for both work and play.

“Now is the time to learn from the mistakes of the past, and make sure the infrastructure investment matches the projected urban growth,” he said.

Moorabool council chief executive Derek Madden said the submission advocates for issues that unite all peri-urban councils.

“The PUCV is focused on issues and projects across all peri-urban councils so the submission focussed on roads in particular. We are very keen to ensure Moorabool Shire receives its share of funding to improve our road network,” he said.

Ellen Xanthoulakis and her daughter Maisie, 4. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

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.”

Scoreboard to settle

Melton council has taken stock of scoreboards at sports reserves within the municipality, and is planning to take upgrades to this year’s budget deliberations.

Following a motion from councillor Steve Abboushi at a council meeting last year, council conducted an analysis and found half of the 18 “key” active recreation reserves in Melton don’t have up-to-standard electronic scoreboards.

At a meeting on Monday, February 26, council decided it will consider funding new electronic scoreboards for eight reserves before the next budget is released.

Atanestimated$80,000perscoreboard installation, council said it would need to allocate $640,000 to ensure all major reserves have at least the base level of electronic scoreboard available.

If accepted for the 2024-25 budget, council would install scoreboards at Aintree Recreation Reserve, Arnolds Recreation Reserve, Blackwood Drive RecreationReserve,IanCowieRecreation Reserve, Kurunjang Recreation Reserve, the MacPherson Park Baseball Precinct, Spring Hills Recreation Reserve and Taylors Hill Recreation Reserve.

The MacPherson Park Rugby Precinct also does not currently have a electronic scoreboard, however, one has already been committed to as part of a current upgrade project.

CrAbboushisaidthereporthighlights a“greatneed”intheMeltonmunicipality to make sure recreation reserves are at a particular standard.

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

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,” Annette said of her decision to devote 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 specialist service, Antoinette is treating IWD 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.

20 years of enriching lives at Lifestyle Communities

Lifestyle Communities is where downsizing your home means upgrading to a vibrant life filled with boundless possibilities.

They’re not just builders; they’re architects of unforgettable experiences and designers of homes filled with an undeniable sense of belonging.

They cater to the young-at-heart in their 50s and above, whether still working, retiring to reinvent, or just ready for a change. It’s a place where neighbours soon become close friends and where laughter and fun never get old.

Celebrating excellence

Two decades of passion and innovation are behind Lifestyle Communities’ commitment to purposeful, joyful living. Managing director and co-founder James Kelly shares:

“Our homeowners are the heartbeat of our community. From day one, our mission has been clear: to be a ‘business for purpose’ that enriches lives and fosters meaningful connections”.

“Wesetouttocreateanupliftingexperience for downsizers, to offer a space that strikes the perfect balance between connection and privacy, independence and activity. With a clearly defined purpose and commitment to this goal, 20 years later, we’re proud to say that we still lead the market in our product offering.”

Lifestyle upgrade

Beautifully designed, low-maintenance homes are surrounded by state-of-the-art amenities. The clubhouseis the pulsation hub

of the communities offeringa sophisticated arena of leisure, social mingling, and wellnessdesigned to make every moment a cherished memory.You can join friends for a delightful lunch, break a sweat in the gym, or unwind by the pool.

Timeless commitment

With over 25 communities across Victoria, Lifestyle Communities has an unwavering long-term commitment to its communities, nurturing them for the long haul.

“We reimagine, revitalise, and reinvent, ensuringthateachcommunityisalignedwith ourpursuitofexcellence.LifestyleBrookfield, our inaugural community, stands tall as a testament to our enduring dedication,” Mr Kelly said.

Holiday your way

The dedicated Lifestyle team is constantly striving to exceed expectations, recently launching Club Lifestyle at Lifestyle Bellarine, which offers free seaside escapes to all Lifestyle Communities homeowners. Homeowners can choose to stay in a cosy villa, bring their caravan and enjoy one of the premium-powered sites, or embark on a road trip in a fully equipped Lifestyle Motorhome.

Life enriched

Lifestyle Communities provide not just a home but a lifestyle. Discover a community that shapes unforgettable experiences, nurturesmeaningfulconnections,andtailors a vibrant lifestyle to enrich your everyday life.

Saba leading the way in dentistry and gender equality

Dr Saba Farooq, a local dentist and owner of Main Street Dental Practice Bacchus Marsh, celebrates International Women’s Day (IWD) byreflectingonitssignificanceandtheimpact of gender equality on her life.

Dr Farooq highlights IWD’s role as a global platform for women’s achievements and a call for accelerated gender parity.

“I want to be part of the effort that changes the reality for every woman,“ she states.

Inspiration played a key role in her journey. Her father, a pioneering dentist and orthodontist in Pakistan, instilled a belief in limitless possibilities with hard work.

“He was a strong advocate for girls’ education,“ Dr Farooq recalls.

Her supportive brother and husband further empowered her.

Her husband, she says, “encouraged me to pursue my dreams, whether it’s starting a business or taking career-advancing opportunities”.

Investinginwomenisinvestinginprogress, Dr Farooq argues.

“When women have equal access to resources and opportunities, they contribute morefullytosocietyandtheeconomy.Gender equality leads to a more just and peaceful world.“

Shebelievesinempoweringwomenthrough education, entrepreneurship programs, and access to capital. Advocating for fair pay, parental leave policies, and tackling unconscious bias are also crucial.

Dr Farooq exemplifies this empowerment.

“I’ve inspired many young women to become dentists and businesswomen,“ she says, highlighting her role as one of the first Pakistani women dentists and business owners in Australia.

Her story embodies the spirit of IWD, paving the way for a future where women can achieve their full potential.

Dr Saba Farooq.

Looking after the health and wellbeing of women

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. As the demand for ageing at homeservices in the community continues to rise, we’re making sure that our aged care and disability support services are easy to understand and access. Getting the right level of support can be a daunting process so our teams offer in home visits with guidance and practical help, from the application stage and setting up appropriate services to tailored care management and regular reviews to make sure everything is running smoothly.

Most of our teamscome from multicultural backgrounds and can speak languages in additionto English, but if needed, we can also arrange interpreter services so that we can continue to provide the most inclusive services possible for all of our community members.

“The work I do as a case manager I find rewarding, working closely with the client and their family to determine what’s best in terms of supports and services to help them daily and keep them comfortable and independent in their own home for as long as possible. We’re also able to alleviate stress on their family carers as well,“ says case worker Anastasia from the aged care and disability support team

WithsixcampusesacrossMelbourne’swest, 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.

au for more information and get in touch on 1300 472 432 to see how we can move your health and wellbeing journey forward, together.

Anastasia from IPC Health’s aged care and disability support team.

Open letter details tower fears

The Regional Victorian Power Alliance (RVPA) has issued a resolute declaration opposing the proposed construction of high voltage transmission towers that make up the proposed Western Renewables Link (WRL) and VNI West in an open letter addressed to Premier Jacinta Allan.

The alliance’s concerns come in the wake of the collapse of six transmission towers at Anakie on February 13.

“It is imperative that we address how and why these towers failed,” it said.

“The proposed construction of 400 kilometres of transmission lines through regional western and north western Victoria for the proposed WRL and VNI West projects

raises significant safety concerns for our communities, especially considering the use of proposed outdated technology.

“The collapse of these towers not only resulted in electricity outages for over 500,000 households at a yet to be accounted massive economiccostbutalsoposedaseverethreatto regional lives and the environment.”

The letter claims the state government’s reliance on the Australian Energy Market Operator’s guidance, without considering independent expert advice on energy transition and “superior solutions for high voltage transmission lines”, is unacceptable.

“The recent CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology state of the climate report

highlighted the increasing frequency of extreme weather events due to global warming. In such a climate, it is imperative that we invest in transmission networks that are not only reliable and resilient but also sustainable and efficient,” the letter said.

“The proposed WRL and VNI West High Voltage Transmission projects do not meet these criteria.”

The government, however, has said design standards for transmission towers have been upgraded in recent years to ensure towers can withstand more frequent strong winds.

A state government spokesperson said new transmission lines will be built to the latest design standards to ensure towers withstand

200 rescue milestone for SES duo

Two 17-year-old volunteers have been making their mark with the Melton SES by attending almost 200 combined callouts since November.

Aiden Stylianou and Riley Dalgleish are both residents of the Caroline Springs area who joined the SES as junior members about a year ago.

Each are following in family footsteps, with Riley’s parents having 45 years combined experience in the SES and Aiden’s father being the Melton unit controller and an SES life member.

Aiden said for him, joining the SES was a “no-brainer”.

“I want to follow in the footsteps of my father Wayne [Stylianou]... I like being part of

ateamandlearningnewskillssuchasfirstaid, communications, leadership, how to manage complex and continually changing situations and changing people’s lives,” he said.

Riley said joining the SES has helped him increase my confidence.

“I’ve been lucky enough to be able to bring some of leadership, communication, and planning skills into my Studies as a year 12 student,” he said. “We train on a Monday night and I attend emergency calls when I’m available which doesn’t interfere with school or my homework.”

Melton unit community engagement deputy controller Yvonne Newton said the boys are great and are always willing to learn.

“They mix well with all the other members

and always share a smile,” she said.

Ms Newton said Melton SES has responded to 373 emergency calls since November 1.

“This summer has been challenging, severe storms, flash flooding have heavily impacted local communities around Melton,” she said.

“In the past, the summer period has been associated with enhanced risk of fire, however the frequency and intensity of severe thunderstorms has increased. Particularly on hot days we are seeing damaging winds, heavy rainfall leading to flash flood, and the potential for large hail.”

Details: https://www.ses.vic.gov.au/join-us/ volunteer.

storms and other extreme weather Victorians are routinely facing as the climate changes.

“Progressing critical transmission projects like WRL and VNI West will deliver cheaper, more reliable renewable energy to homes and businesses across Victoria and keep the lights on,” they said.

The RVPA called on the government to establish a power grid that is reliableminimizing outages and their detrimental effects, sustainable - minimizing environmentalimpactandadaptingtoclimate change, and affordable - Considering the full triple-bottom line economic costs over the lifespanofthisinfrastructure,notjustupfront direct investment.

Marching into good times

Summer festival season is dying down but in the lead up to Easter there’s no shortageofeventsandactivitiestocheck out in the west and Western Melbourne Tourism highlights list.

Steve McCurry’s 100-photograph exhibition ICONS exhibition opened at the SeaWorks Maritime Precinct in Hobsons Bay on February 28, and will run until May.

From March 8-28, Wyndham Park in Werribee’s LIT offers wondrous landscapes transformed by brilliant lightingexperiencestoexplorewhenthe sun goes down.

The Yarraville Festival returns on March 10 offering a true celebration of theInnerWest,thefestivaloffersquality food, entertainment and activities for locals and visitors of all ages.

March 14-23 is the Brimbank Writers and Readers Festival - ten days packed with events, authors in conversation, workshops and an entertaining theatre work by First Nations Ilbijerri Theatre.

The West Footscray Festival of Colours is on March 16, the annual festival at Barkly Square coincides with the colourful Indian Festival of Holi.

Then,EatDrinkWestsidefromMarch 15-24, includes 12 Westside Wanders, with one in Melton and one in Caroline Springs.

Western Melbourne Tourism executive director Richard Ponsford said March is another “epic month” in the west.

“With an exciting lineup of events... tickets are selling fast this year so be sure to book soon,” he said.

Riley Dalgleish and Aiden Stylianou. (Provided)

Hopes for state funding splash

By Liam McNally

A Western Metro MP has voiced his support forthestategovernmenttohelpfundthefuture

Plumpton Wellness Centre

The aquatic centre is currently in its master planning phase, which will continue with concept designs until July 2024.

Councilishopingforittobeastate-of-the-art facilitythatincludesanindoorpool,anoutdoor pool,agym,warmwaterpools,programpools, community café spaces and other allied health spaces.

Council also plans for the centre to include Australia’s first water sensory area – including water features, interactive wall elements, and a heated pool with a beach-style entry.

The high-tech multi-sensory environment will be specially designed to cater for people of all ages and abilities to create opportunities and connections that enhance and contribute to wellbeing.

Construction is expected to begin in August 2025,withaimsforthefacilitytobeoperational in July 2027.

Melton council applied for state government fundingthroughthelatestroundoftheGrowth Areas Infrastructure Contribution (GAIC) fund.

GAIC funding comes from payments made by developers in Melbourne’s growth areas to the state government, which is then designated to essential infrastructure projects.

InParliamentWesternMetroMPTrungLuu

voiced his support for the Plumpton Aquatic and Wellness Centre to receive GAIC funding.

“Melton city is in my region and currently has only one council-owned swimming pool, butthatisnotenoughtocaterforthelargearea in the growth corridor…The centre will service 90,000 people in an area expected to grow to 170,000bytheyear2040,”hesaid.“Theaquatic centrewillnotonlyprovideaplaceforresidents to socialise and improve their physical health and mental wellbeing but also allow children and adults to access water safety programs.

“I urge the minister to look favourably on their application.”

Melton Mayor Kathy Majdlik said the Plumpton Aquatic and Wellness Centre will be a state-of-the-art facility with a focus on

wellbeing, accessibility and inclusion.

“The centre will promote active lifestyles, foster social networks, and enhance the liveability of our communities,” she said.

“Council is committed to constructing critical community infrastructure, and will actively pursue additional funding opportunities. Funding from state or federal governments will enable Council to deliver district level projects for the fastest growing community in Australia.

“The concept for the Plumpton Aquatic and Wellness Centre is based on our community’s needs, addressing local allied health service gaps.”

Thestategovernmentsaiditisstillreviewing applications.

Proud to support this year’s Good Friday Appeal

Easter is just around the corner, which means CFAvolunteers,includingthoseinMeltonand Moorabool, 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.

“The remarkable thing about our volunteers is that not only do they give up their time to volunteer with CFA, they also happily give their time to fundraise for causes like the Appeal,” he said.

“It’sacauseclosetotheheartsofmanyofour members – whether they were former patients at the hospital or have family who have been touched by the RCH’s world-class service.

“We’re incredibly proud of our members’ continued fundraising efforts and pleased to once again support the Good Friday Appeal in 2024.“

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

Plan to manage green wedge

The Green Wedges Coalition has welcomed a decision by Melton council to adopt a plan to properly manage the Western Plains South Green Wedge.

Green wedges are state government-zoned areas that lie outside the urban growth boundary and are designated for a mix of agriculture and low density activity, typically restricting a lot of development.

The Western Plains South Green Wedge spans across the southern area of the Melton municipality and he north-western area of Wyndham.Thewedgeischaracterisedbyopen

volcanic plains and scattered native grassland flora and fauna.

The Western Plains South Green Wedge management plan identifies a vision, and actionsforthesustainableuseanddevelopment for the section of the Western Plains South Green Wedge located within Melton.

The Western Plains South Green Wedge Management Plan is defined by six themes, peopleandconsultation,agriculture,irrigation and natural resources, infrastructure and land use, roads and rural amenity while supporting economic activity, environment based

around increasing community awareness and knowledge and landscape, which emphasises development must be carefully located to minimise impacts on long views unique to the Western Volcanic Plain and cultural heritage whichstatesbothculturalheritageandhistoric built form will be protected and celebrated.

Green Wedges Coalition coordinator Rosemary West said welcomed the plan.

“Green wedges are described as the lungs of Melbourne, they help make Melbourne one of the world’s most liveable cities,” she said.

“We’ve seen too much urban use being

permitted [in Melbourne’s 12 green wedges] to replace environmental and agricultural land and to blight scenic rural landscapes. Melton is in the heart of the western volcanic plains grasslands, and there’s not much of the grasslands left.”

Council received 23 submissions during consultation. Four raised concern about farming on rural-zoned land being restricted, which the council assured will not happen. Eight submissions requested the rezoning of land in the green wedge from a rural land use to an urban land use.

Tragic loss leads to club’s award winning lesson

Caroline Springs Football Club was celebrated at the annual Good Sports Awards at Parliament 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’sGoodSportsprogramintackling 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.”

TheAlcoholandDrugFoundation’sVictoria 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

Promoting stronger road safety has been a whole club effort for the Lakers. (Supplied)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

150th anniversary

St. Bernard’s Church, Bacchus Marsh, celebrates 150 years in June. Commemorative engraved pavers are on sale for $50 each. Up to 3 lines of writing - 16 spaces per line. See St. Bernard’s Facebook page, the Piety Stall after mass or contact the parish office for an order form. Orders close April 2.

■ bacchusmarsh@cam.org.au

Hearing Australia

information session

In conjunction with Hearing Australia, Melton South Community Centre is holding a free community information session at 1pm on Wednesday, March 20. Attendees can discover how to preserve their hearing for longer and learn about new advances in hearing technology, with free initial hearing checks available to interested participants. Afternoon tea is provided. Bookings essential.

■ 9747 8576

Dessert workshop

Create fluffy and delicious desserts in Melton South Community Centre’s upcoming sponge and Swiss roll workshop. Students attending on Sunday, March 17, 10am-2.30pm will learn how to make and decorate a sponge cake from scratch, and then adapt those skills to make a Swiss roll. Everything is supplied. $80 or $75 concession.

■ 9747 8576

Cake workshop

Make your next high tea event extra special by enrolling in Melton South Community Centre’s new petit fours cakes workshop and discovering how to create traditional bite-sized cakes, perfect for dessert, teatime or even just a treat. Everything is provided at this four-hour workshop on Sunday, March 24, 10am-2pm. You’ll take home a selection of cakes at the end. $65 or $60 concession.

■ 9747 8576

Men’s Fella-Ship

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

■ 9747 8576

Chatty Cafe Melton

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

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

Women’s Support Group

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

■ https://ow.ly/QVwJ50Q5g42

Caroline Springs Rotary

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

■ rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Melton Ladies Probus

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

■ Dianne, 9743 7446

The Gap on Graham

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

■ Val, 0414 769 605.

Melton Men’s Group

Melton Men’s Group meets every Thursday from 5-8pm at Arnolds Creek Children’s and Community Centre, 19 Claret Ash Boulevard, Harkness. Focusing on senior men’s mental and physical wellbeing. Join the group for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including carpet bowls, pool or table tennis.

■ meltonmensgroup.home.blog

Take weight off naturally

Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Weight Off Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton.

■ Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739

Parkinson’s support group

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

■ Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Bridge Club

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

■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Melton Friendship Group

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

■ 0406 493 734

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club

The Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 10am at Melton Country Club. New members welcome.

■ Ann 0425705150

Melton South Knit & Natter

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

■ 9747 8576

Zonta club meets

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

■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

U3A Melton

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

■ 0419 563 016

Melton Combined Probus Club

The Melton Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am.

■ 9746 0271

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park

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

■ Elaine Greenhall, 0418 171 119, or 0400 052 857

Melton Cycling Club

Melton Cycling Club meets for regular Sunday rides. There are three different riding groups to cater for different abilities starting at 7.30am. The rides finish at Lazy

Moe’s for a cuppa.

■ 0403 057 003

Community singing group

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

■ Val, 0418 667 150

Rotary Club of Melton

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

■ meltonrotary@gmail.com

Melton Trauma Teddies

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

■ Jean 0412 931 498

Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh

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

■ https://63ec55b8628d6.site123.me/

Bacchus Marsh and District Garden Club

The club meets on the second Tuesday of each month except January, from 7.30pm, at The Laurels, 229 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh. Guest speakers and supper provided. Yearly membership $15. New members welcome.

■ Michelle, 0421 106 268

Community band

The Greater Western Community Band holds rehearsals on Thursdays 7.30pm to 9.30pm at the Bridge Road Community Centre, 260 Bridge Road, Strathtulloh. The group welcomes musicians young and old, to come along and join in with their local band. Woodwind, brass and percussion instruments. They are available to perform at events and festivals.

■ Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582

Over 50s social group

A friendly group of people aged 50 and older who enjoy each other’s company while attending events and outings such as dinners, shows, dancing, cinemas and more. If you live in the Melton area and would like to meet new friends, in a welcoming group environment, this is for you.

■ Marlene, 0498329290

BusyFeet Hillside

BusyFeet is a dance and movement class for children with intellectual and physical disabilities. Classes create a fun and inclusive environment for kids aged six to 16 to try new things and build social skills, as well as giving a chance for parents’ respite. It’s held from 11-11.45am Saturday mornings.

■ Ross, 0411 228 311

Sunrise Social Groups

GenWest Sunrise Social Groups are currently seeking new members for their Melton, Brimbank and Wyndham programs. The free groups are organised by Genwest and provide a social space for women, gender diverse and nonbinary people, who have a disability, chronic health issues and/ or mental health challenges.

■ https://genwest.org.au/what-we-do/ health-wellbeing-programs/

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. (Damjan Janevski) 391167_01

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)

9-LETTER

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

PRO PUT SKI TEE TIE TNT TOT UGH WRY YET

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. 175

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?

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: $43,240

Toyota GR86 GTS Manual and Automatic: $45,390

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 and steering, with larger-diameter front brakes 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

Simeon Tuilagi.

Matthew Krul.

Matthew

Rasanjana Jayarathna.

Western

Oliver Davidson. 392492_01

Dimantha

Saints turn things around to book a grand final

After a number of tough seasons, St Anthony’s has something to smile about with a Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield grand final spot locked in.

Having struggled for numbers on field and those to help out off field, the Saints dropped down from the top grade down the ranks.

Under first year coach Jason Orr, the Saints havestartedtoturntheonfieldresultsaround.

On Saturday, they produced a dominant all round performance against Melton South to win their semi final and progress to the final game of the season.

“It’s really good,” Orr said. “It’s been very hard to compete against the other clubs in Melton.

“We keep trying to get going and get some new players. We’re trying to tap into the area around Arnolds Creek.

“Hopefully we can keep going for years to come.”

On Saturday, the Saints couldn’t have asked for a much better performance against the Melton South Royals.

The Saints won the toss and managed to bowltheRoyalsoutforjust89inthe30thover.

The Saints shared the wickets around with Gurinder Singh Grewal and Zac Giblett, both taking three each.

Orr said they bowled and fielded well to restrict the Royals to that total.

At 4-42 in the run chase there were a few nervous moments for those on the side lines watching including Orr.

“We lost a few early wickets but our captain Zac Giblett soldered through and got us over the line.

“We bat deep but there were a few nervous moments. Having our captain being out there made things a bit better.”

Giblett finished 73 not out off 71 balls, with the next highest score just five.

Orr said Saturday had been a really good day with the club hosting a past players day and having another side in finals action on the other field.

The Saints now face Aintree in the grand final after Aintree beat Lancefield in the other semi final.

Orr knows they will have a tough match against them. Orr was part of the Saints last first XI premiership five years ago.

“They are a good club and a good team,” he said. “In a grand final anything can happen.

“We played Aintree once this year and they did win that.

“We know what we’re up against and it’s a small ground, hopefully it’ll suit our side.”

In the Jensen Shield, Aintree will face Wallan in a semi final this weekend for a spot in the grand final.

Tara Murray

Lions crowned premiers

By Tara Murray

The Lions were the standout team all season and showed exactly why in the grand final, beating cross town rival Bacchus Marsh on Sunday in the grand final.

Lions playing coach Aileen Kilmartin was pretty ecstatic following the game.

“We have done well,” she said. “We’ve been in the competition going on our fourth year and it’s amazing to see what we’ve done after struggling for a few years.

“We’ve now come out on top.”

Kilmartin said despite being involved in the local sporting community, she didn’t realise how big the rivalry was between Darley and Bacchus Marsh.

She said they got along really well with the Bulls women and having Bacchus Marsh part of the grand final made it even better.

The Lions won the toss on Sunday and

decided to send Bacchus Marsh in.

The Lions had three early wickets and soon had a fourth to have the Bulls in trouble at 4-37.

A partnership between Jenna Fowlie and Emily Kennedy got the Bulls back on track, before they lost their last four wickets for just seven to be bowled out for 92 in the 23 over.

Fowlie top scored for the Bulls with 26.

Tameeka Morrissey was the pick of the bowlers for the Lions, taking 4-17.

Kilmartin was happy in between innings with her side on top of the game.

“As a bowling team, the ladies we do have are all really good friends and bowl well together as a team,” she said.

“All year we’ve been a good batting side and we do have one player that was averaging 70 every game.”

The ace in the pack that Kilmartin knew they had, Kim Bessell stepped up and showed what she could do in the Lions innings.

Bessell hit 72 not out off 67 balls to guide her side to victory. The Lions finished 2-98 in

RDFNL names interleague coaches

The Riddell District Football Netball League has announced its interleague coaches, with the league to have representative senior women’s football for the first time. The league will face the Southern Football Netball League on May 11. It’s been five years since the RDFNL played senior interleague.

Leading the charge on the football field for the men’s team will be Wallan coach Daniel Nolan.

Nolan has coached in the league for severalseasonsnowandhasdeveloped strong relations with opposition players and coaches as well as having an extensive knowledge of the league and its players.

Macedon forward Jason Cooke is the under-19s coach.

Cooke had success with his Macedon under-19 charges in last year’s RDFNL competition winning the premiership.

Heading up the women’s program is Scott Caton who is the newly appointed Woodend Hesket women’s senior coach.

Club development manager Grant McMillian was pleased to appoint three well regarded coaches to the football roles.

just 20 overs.

FortheBullsMackenzieElmerandKennedy took a wicket each.

Not surprisingly Bessell was named best on ground.

“First ball was a bouncer and she hit it for six,” Kilmartin said. “We’re all like how do you do that?

“We’re struggling to see the ball and she does things like that. Whether it’s batting, bowling or fielding, she’s a great all rounder.”

Kilmartin said they were hoping that the premiership would help them continue to build their female program at the club.

“We have six or seven girls in our junior sides, but can’t play in the GDCA team as you have to be 13.

“My daughter [one of the younger players] is a top five bowler in the competition and we have a couple who were playing footy for Darley who have come and played.

“There’s five or six that will likely make the step up and start playing women’s cricket. Hopefully get more girls on board at Darley.”

“All of our appointed coaches have a great passion for Interleague football and are giving up their time on top of their club coaching roles so are very well committed,“ he said. “It is an honour for players and coaches to be able to represent their league, and Interleague games provide another opportunity to display the calibre and depth of football talent that exists in the RDFNL.“

Katie Clarke in her first season of A-grade coaching at Macedon has been named the netball coach. Clarke has been a key member of many RDFNL representative netball teams on court.

League netball manager Grace Bibby said Clarke has been a massive supporter of the RDFNL.

“She brings so much energy and fun to our competition and we are confident she will put a very competitive team together to take on Southern Football Netball League,” she said. “Both leagues have great depth to their competitions and we are looking forward to showcasing a great game of netball in May.”

Gurinder Singh Grewal took three wickets on Saturday. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Darley’s women’s premiership team (Supplied)

Darley capped off a strong season on the field with its first Gisborne and District Cricket Association women’s T20 title.

Mustangs finally break through for premier win

It’s been four seasons in the making, but Melton is finally Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 2, section 2 premiers.

Afterfallingshortinthegrandfinalthepast three seasons, the Mustangs finally claimed the much wanted title they were after.

It was a dominate display by the Mustangs in the grand final, winning 116 (18)-66 (0) against Ivanhoe.

Mustangs president Anthony Briggs said it was a pretty special feeling to finally get the premiership.

“It was awesome and a massive day for the club,” he said. “To come together how the season has panned out.

“We had some dominant performances during the year and it happened again yesterday [Saturday].”

Briggs said things started well when they drew a rink draw they were happy with. He said having Todd Trewarne’s rink face the rink of Guy Spiden who is their best player worked in their favour.

From there it was all the Mustangs.

“One rink got off to a flyer, the Todd

Blackburn’s rink they were dominant all day,” Briggs said. “It made it easier for everyone else with them being streets ahead.

“It was pretty much over at half time and we added some shots after that, it was outstanding.”

The win was capped off by Trewarne’s rink winning on the final end to claim all four rink

wins.

Trewarne’s rink won 22-21, Blackburn’s 36-7, Flynn O’Shaughnessy’s rink won 31-18 and Chris Barritt-Eyles rink won 27-20.

Briggs said with five or six ends left int he game, they knew they had done enough to get the win and they could enjoy the moment.

He said the support they had from Melton

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.

EmilyBrebnerwasabletostickaroundwith 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 monthsinthemaking,acoupleofnewplayers 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.

people who had made the trek down had also helped and made the day more special.

Briggs said a lot had been spoken about missing out the last three seasons and this means a lot to them after everything they’ve gone through.

The side will now be back in division 1 next season.

“Itwasspokenaboutthatwehadbeeninthe grand final the last four years,” he said. “We wanted to get the result and we had the right team to get it done.”

The Mustangs didn’t have a lot of time to rest as they were back in action on Sunday as the divisional finals started.

Briggs said before the match there were a few sore heads, but they were pretty buoyant and confident of getting a result.

The Mustangs season will continue on with a 78-49 shot win against Parkdale in the divisional quarter finals.

The Mustangs will face Narre Warren in the semi finals.

Tara Murray

Hesitate continues to catch eyes

Damien Burns is hoping unbeaten juvenile Hesitate will catch the eye of slot holders for this year’s inaugural Protostar in Queensland.

Burns prepares just a small team at Snake Valley, just outside of Ballarat, and has unearthed what he thinks is potentially the best horse he’s had in a 20-year training career.

Hesitatebacked-uphisdebutwinwith a dominant performance in Saturday night’s TAB Premiere 2YO Stakes at Melton, zipping home in a slick final quarter to run down stablemate Stormy Woods while holding off first-starter Archie Moth.

Burns then used the TrotsVision broadcast to put his horse’s name forward for the $500,000 two-year-old feature at Albion Park on July 27.

“I think this horse could be the best horse I’ve trained,” Burns, who also drove the son of Sportswriter, said.

“I’ve got a pretty big opinion of this bloke and a little while ago I saw that race in Queensland - the slot race - so I’m hoping someone might give us a spot.

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 beenabletostandupafteraveryearlynervous 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.

“I love the horse. He’s just beautifully natured, a natural two-year-old and he’s got high speed as well as strength.

“They don’t come around like this very often. I’m pretty lucky.”

Burns, who has prepared talented types such as Mornings, Youaremy Sunshine and Solesseo Matuca in a training career that boasts 89 wins, is eyeing off the Shakamaker 2YO Classic back at Melton on March 23 for Hesitate’s next start.

“I still haven’t really let the horse go to be honest, so I don’t know how good he is,” Burns said.

Hesitate’s second career victory was Burns’ third two-year-old triumph of 2024, with Stormy Woods also winning at Ballarat on Thursday.

Julie Douglas trained the only double on Saturday night at headquarters, with Clymenus winning the opening event on the card before Ideal Escape led all the way in the fast class clash.

Tim O’Connor

Caroline Springs premiership side (Tara Murray)

Melton’s winning weekend pennant team. (Supplied)

Disappointing season comes to end for Lions

Melton will take the disappointment of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association north-west season and build on it next season.

After just missing finals last season, the Lions had high hopes for this season.

The side though was without a win before Christmas and only finished with ?? wins for the season.

Lions coach Mitch Stephens said they were disappointed with how it played out.

“Coming off the previous season when we had six or seven wins as a group we thought we were heading in the right direction on the back of Benny MacRae’s strong season,” he said. “But we’ve been disappointing.

“It was a new group with a few out and a few in. We’ll take the positives where we can and there’s a lot of improvement to come and a lot to work on.”

Stephens said a lot of players had shone bits and pieces during the season, but

weren’t able to put it all together for the whole season. He highlighted Alex Kerr’s final innings of the season, Joel Mitchener making his first half century at that level, Rhys Berry taking 30 wickets for the season and Brenton Cook making some solid contributions as positives to take out of the season.

The Lions form throughout the season was reflected in their final match of the season on Saturday, where they lost to Preston.

Preston batted well and set the Lions a total of 233 for the win.

Berry and Dylan Jobson took three wickets each for the Lions.

The Lions batters were unable to bat out

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.

“Ireallyenjoyplayingbothsportsandallof 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

the 40 overs though and were bowled out for 185.

“Preston come out with intent with chance to play finals if things went their way,” he said.

“The way they batted they went hard after the bowlers. The bowlers fought back hard.

“Our batting has let us down for a majority of the year and did again on Saturday.

“We’renotgettingenoughruns.Wegotalot of starts and not going on with it.

“Alex Kerr was able to make the most of his start and get some time in the middle but it didn’t come off consistently enough.”

Kerr finished with 84 off 98 balls.

While the season is over for the first XI, the Lions second and third XIs are still alive.

Stephens said it’s exciting for the club to have those sides both in finals action and are hoping they will progress further than the first week.

- Tara Murray

Sports shorts

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.

Nike F.C Cup

The first two rounds of the 2024 Nike F.C Cup were released on February 28, with 74 teams learning their fate. Round one will be played on the weekend of March 17 and round two is set to be played on the weekend of March 24. The entrants for round one women’s state league 3, 4 and 5 as well as regional and metropolitan clubs. In round 2, Caroline Springs George Cross will play Dandenong City.

Big V

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.

The fixtures for the upcoming Big V season have been released, with the division 2 men’s competition kicking off on March 16. In round one, the Melton Thoroughbreds will face Mornington on March 16.

VTCA

Sydenham-Hillside will host a home final in the first week of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division finals. Facing Yarraville Club in the final round of the season, the match was to decide who would host the first week of the finals, with the teams to finish second and third no matter what. The Clubbers made 9-192 with the Storm getting the runs with one ball remaining, finishing 7-193. Caroline Springs and Burnside Springs United will also play finals in their respective divisions.

Web:

Melton

Mia Gordon (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Brenton Cook (Ljubica Vrankovic)