Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 26th March 2024

‘Trust’ watered down

By Hannah Hammoud

Firefighters in Brimbank have voiced their frustrations over the alarming frequency of equipment failures plaguing their station.

Since September last year, the St Albans Fire Station has received seven replacement vehicles for its fire truck – also referred to as an ‘appliance’.

With nearly two decades of experience in the western suburbs, station officer John Topic said fire crews have deep concerns over the reliability of their equipment.

“We always had faith in our equipment and appliances, whereas now being a station officer [and] being in charge of crews, sending crews into a fire… I always have that reservation in the back of my mind - is that appliance going to work and supply those crews inside the structure with water?”

The consequences of faulty equipment are dire. Crews have been forced to withdraw from dangerous situations due to truck malfunctions, endangering both firefighters and those they aim to rescue.

“It has happened in the past where crews have gone into a structure to battle a blaze or perform a rescue and the truck has shut down. When that happens we have to withdraw the crew for their own safety until we can establish more water,” Mr Topic said.

“What it’s created is a bit of doubt in everyone’s mind with the equipment we’re using, whether it’s going to work for us when we need it.”

Mr Topic said the lack of confidence in the equipment only grows with each replacement, as the quality and reliability of the substitutes remain questionable.

“Our faith in these trucks and these appliances isn’t great at the moment,” he said.

“It hasn’t cost anyone’s life or injured anyone just yet – but why should we have to wait till something that dramatic does happen?”

In recent years, Mr Topic said firefighters havebeenlefttodealwithafleetthatisoutdated and unreliable.

“We might have a truck that’s maybe 15 or 16 years old at the station [and] that’s our allocated appliance which is already overdue its lifespan… but then the replacement truck we getmightbeanevenoldertruck,”hesaid.“Your faith just diminishes each time you get one of these replacement vehicles, you’re not sure what’s wrong with it, what its history is, what problemsit’shadinthepast.Sothistruckcould have come from the other side of Melbourne, we have no idea what the performance of it is like until we actually use it.”

An FRV spokesperson said the safety of firefighters, other first responders and the community is “paramount”.

“FRV is doing everything we can to ensure the highest safety standards,” the spokesperson said.“Replacementvehicleshavebeenprovided to St Albans and Sunshine while FRV’s Fleet Team carries out maintenance work, as is usual practice. “The stations’ own appliances are expected back in service next week.

“All mechanical equipment experiences problems from time to time. However, rigorous internal processes ensure our fleet consistently delivers a high standard of service and, crucially, a safe environment for our people and the community.

“These processes include regular servicing in line with manufacturer guidelines and safety standards, implementing and continually

modernising asset management policies, and enhancing existing vehicles.”

Mr Topic said it has been a combination of inaction from the state government alongside a lack of planning from Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) that has led to trucks not being replaced in an efficient manner.

The situation is equally dire at Sunshine Fire Station, where a crucial firefighting truck, the teleboom, has been absent since February last year. This specialised truck, used for tackling fires in narrow streets, has left firefighters handicapped in critical situations.

Mr Topic said the excuses provided for the teleboom’sprolongedabsencearewearingthin. Despite assurances of repairs and imminent return, the truck remains offline, leaving Sunshine and surrounding areas vulnerable to fire risks.

“I was a firefighter in Sunshine for about 15 years and we used that truck at almost every major house fire, every factory fire, and in the westernsuburbs,especiallylately,we’reneeding that probably every few days or at least weekly. The next nearest truck of the same capability is Thomastown or Richmond,” he said.

A state government spokesperson said FRV vehicles are regularly maintained by an expert team to ensure they are at the standard needed to protect community safety.

“We have delivered record funding in recent years for our fire services to ensure they have the resources and equipment they need to protect our communities and keep firefighters safe,” the spokesperson said.

“... We work closely with FRV to determine what it needs to deliver the best service for the community.”

St Albans Fire Station station officer Kieran Cardillo (front), with firefighters Chris Bloder, Clare Butler and Nathan Miller. (Damjan Janevski) 396286_01

Museum to call Sunshine home

By Hannah Hammoud

Australia’s first Vietnamese museum has officiallyfoundaplacetocallhomeinSunshine.

At the council meeting on March 19, council moved to proceed with a proposal to sell part of the Durham Road car park in Sunshine directly to the Vietnamese Museum Australia (VMA).

The council-owned Durham Road car park site has been a source of controversy across the municipality,withmanyresidentsandbusiness owners raising concerns around the impact the sale will have on parking availability.

In the same meeting that council moved to sell part of the car park, it also accepted a

petition with 211 signatures objecting to the sale.

Council also cited a letter of support for the development with 1868 signatures.

Councillor Jasmine Nguyen said that while the sale of part of the car park will result in a loss of 37 car spaces, council has created a Parking Management Strategy which outlines measures to mitigate the impacts.

“...This museum will serve as a beacon for cross-cultural understanding. It’s not just a museum for Vietnamese Australians - but for the broader Australian community. Let that be clear,” Cr Nguyen said.

“It will honour the rich heritage and contributions of the Vietnamese Australian

population whilst also highlighting the shared experiences of migrants and refugees from all backgrounds.”

Cr Thomas O’Reilly was the only councillor to vote against the sale, and said that a “once in a lifetime project” must be done in the right place.

“The Durham Road car park services a range of businesses including multiple medical spaces that do not have their own car park. In particular the potential lack of spaces in close proximity to these businesses will make it harder for the elderly and vulnerable peoples to access these services. It will also increase the amount of cars parked in neighbouring residential streets with patrons of local

Embracing every hue for diversity

Sunshine Heights Primary School marked Harmony Day with a colourful celebration of diversity.

The day included a vibrant colour run where students, staff, and parents came together as they were splashed in every colour of the rainbow.

Principal David Cocks highlighted the importance of recognising Harmony Day and how increased diversity is helping his school and the local community.

“Sunshine Heights Primary School has really diverse demographics, from parents

who are refugees to parents who are highly skilled and educated in the Australian system,” he said.

“We have 43 different language groups in the school community with different religious and social backgrounds, including LGBT parents and students.

“We aim to ensure inclusion and belonging for all students with different celebrations throughout the year.”

Beyond just a fun event, the Harmony Day celebrations included fundraising to help raise money for the school’s ‘Nugal-nganjin’

community garden.

Throughout the week, the school hosted various activities designed to promote understanding and inclusion, showcasing the school’s ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all.

Mr Cocks said the school acknowledges that Harmony Day aligns with the International Day Against Racism.

“... for us we take this a step further where we not only stand up against racism, but also ableist actions, trans and homophobia, ageism and sexism,” he said.

businesses, residents and museum/function centre visitors to be looking for on-street parking spaces at various points in the day and evening due to their reduced capacity at the Durham road site,” he said.

Several business owners within the Durham Road precinct have voiced their collective concern about the museum’s location, including Anthony Hoang from Sunshine Primary Health.

“I’m all for having a Vietnamese Museum in Sunshine. I just feel that where they want to put it is a bit clumsy and a bit rushed from councils point of view. They have a really good opportunity to put Sunshine and Brimbank on the map but this isn’t the right place,” he said.

Arts, culture feedback

Brimbank council is revising its Arts and Culture Strategy and is seeking feedback from the community.

The strategy will guide council’s arts and culture direction for the next four years.

The aim of the strategy is to grow and support opportunities within the Brimbank community over the next four years through: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander connections, participation and collaboration, leadership and partnership, creative industries, and places and spaces.

Council is seeking feedback on what is important for arts and culture in Brimbank, council’s strategy pillars and objectives, as well as arts programs and activities in Brimbank.

Councillor Victoria Borg said Brimbank council acknowledges the high significance of arts and culture.

“... Amongst other things, arts and culture generate creativity, inspiration, a sense of pride, and last but not least, social cohesion,” she said.

“The current proposed draft strategy includes a new principle specifically related to First Nations engagement. It’s important to have this principle included as it lines up very well with council’s commitment to First Nations people – as such the reconciliation action plan will have more focus on arts and culture.”

Community consultation is now open and will close on Tuesday, April 16. The final strategy will be presented to council for adoption at the council meeting on May 21.

New Indigenous name unveiled for Sydenham Park

Sydenham Park has gone through a rebirth following its recent name change to Woi-wurrung name, ‘Yaluk barring Park’.

At the council meeting on March 19, council endorsed Sydenham Park’s name change to ‘Yaluk barring Park’ following submissions madeonthenamechangefromthecommunity.

In 2022, council considered a notice of motion raised by councillor Bruce Lancashire on changing the name of Sydenham Park to an appropriate Aboriginal name suggested by local Aboriginal groups.

Last year Brimbank council revealed three shortlisted names that were received from the

Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation for the renaming of Sydenham Park.

Following a community consultation process, including 164 feedback responses received from community members, ‘Yaluk barring Park’ has emerged as a fan favourite with a majority of 64.4 per cent in support of the Woi-wurrung name.

‘Yaluk barring Park’ means river trail in the Woi-wurrung language. The name represents the trails people walk along and near the Maribyrnong River.

Cr Lancashire said the name change is one

thatissupportedbytheAboriginalcommunity and will help unlock its tourism potential.

“It’s something we can be very proud of as a community, as a council, that we’re taking this bold step to achieve this and change this name,” he said.

The other names in consideration were ‘Yerrin taydo Park’, meaning bush walk in the Woi-wurrung language, representing the paths that will run through the parks that people will walk through connecting people to ‘Bundjil’-ormotherearth.Aswellas‘Wurrwu baan Park’, meaning running water in the Woiwurrung language, representing the flow

of water in Kororoit and Jackson creeks in the north of the park.

Brimbank council said that by changing the name, Brimbank acknowledges the cultural significance of the park to the Wurundjeri Woi wurrung people.

The park’s former name was also said to pose a public safety risk as Sydenham Park is not located within the suburb of Sydenham causing confusion for emergency response and transport and mail services when trying to locate the park.

Hannah Hammoud

Sunshine Heights Primary School students Iris, Phoenix and Genevieve. (Damjan Janevski) 395347_01

Toothy win for centre

JindiWorabackChildren’sCentreinStAlbans has been awarded a Smiles 4 Miles Award for its work in oral health education.

The award was presented to Jindi Woraback Children’s Centre on March 19, by IPC Health chief executive Jayne Nelson.

Smiles 4 Miles is an initiative of Dental Health Services Victoria and is implemented locally by IPC Health. The aim of the program is to improve the oral health of Brimbank’s preschool aged children and their families by encouraging healthy eating, healthy drinking, and good oral hygiene.

The award program recognises early childhood services for implementing healthy eating and oral health policies, engaging with families about the importance of oral health,

and educating children through a variety of fun learning experiences based on the Smiles 4 Miles key messages – Drink well, Eat well and Clean well.

Jindi Woraback Children’s Centre director Helen Bonett said the centre appreciates the importance of developing healthy habits from this early age.

“Smiles4Mileshasbeenafantasticprogram which has provided us with necessary resources and information to implement healthier choices at our centre,” Ms Bonett said.

A total of 47 centres across Brimbank, Wyndham Vale and Hobson’s Bay are participating in Smiles 4 Miles through IPC Health.

Briefs

Reusable good drop off day

Brimbank residents can conveniently drop-off their unwanted household items for reuse at the free, reusable good drop off day event on Saturday, April 20, from 9am-2pm at Sunshine West Community Centre. Items in good condition will be donated to local charities, West Welcome Wagon and Helping Hands Mission. Details: https://shorturl.at/LSUZ3

Light up Errington

Brimbank council will be keeping the lights on at Errington Reserve for community use during winter. From April-September, the lights will remain on every Sunday and Friday from sunset until 9pm. Floodlighting will light up Errington Sports Oval and Errington Multipurpose Court to help the community be more active during our colder months.

Fatal fire

Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a fatal house fire in St Albans. Emergency services were called to the Conrad Street house following reports of the fire just after 6am on Friday March 22. A person was removed from the property by fire crews but died at the scene. The investigation remains ongoing into the cause of the fire.

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There were some big smiles at the Jindi Woraback Children’s Centre in St Albans after receiving their Smiles 4 Miles Award. (Supplied)

Schools targeted by thieves

Brimbank schools have been targeted by thieves on the hunt for copper wire piping.

Police are investigating theft and criminal damage at Sunshine College which they believe occured between March 14 and 15.

A subsequent strike at the same school between March 15 and 18 left parts of one school building powerless.

Police said no one was in the building at the time and the investigation into the incidents remains ongoing.

Police are also investigating whether the incidents are linked to a spate of water meter thefts in the north-west between January and March.

Police believe a number of residential properties and schools have been targeted.

Police are looking for unknown offenders who attended Sacred Heart Catholic Primary SchoolStAlbansonWinifredStreet,StAlbans, between February 29 and March 1.

In another incident, unknown offenders attended Holy Eucharist Primary School on Oleander Drive, St Albans between February 21 and 22.

It is understood the offenders forced entry to cages before removing water meters and pipes.

Police have warned scrap metal dealers to be wary of thieves attempting to sell copper

ABBA-solutely fabulous

Keilor Downs College students are preparing to hit the stage with their exciting rendition of Mamma Mia! the musical in May.

Musical director Cat Adey said this year marks the fifth musical at Keilor Downs College.

“We chose Mamma Mia! because we have a lot of kids wanting to be in shows these days so we needed a big ensemble presence,” she said.

“The musical involves the whole school …we wanted to give them all the opportunity to be in it.”

Andit’snotjustthestudentswhoarebuzzing with excitement. Cat said ticket sales for the show are doing better than ever.

“We are hoping to pack out the theatre. We only have three shows so it would be great to sell out all three,” she said.

“Upuntilnowwe’vebeendoingalltheshows in our gymnasium and our own tiny drama

room, but this is the first time we’re doing it in a theatre. We wanted to give the students an opportunity to have full theatre experience.”

But the real magic of this production lies in the personal journeys of its stars, like Tenzin, who takes on the lead role of Donna.

“Our lead, Donna, is a special story. She was too scared to even audition the first couple of years she was at school,” said Cat.

“She first started with a role in the chorus, then the next year a little solo, and now this yearshejustwentforitandhasblowneveryone away.That’swhatmusicaltheatredoesforthese kids, it helps their confidence and they shine.”

Mamma Mia! Will be on show at the Ken Thompson Theatre from May 9-11.

MammaMia! cast members Briana (Tanya), Tenzin (Donna), Sage (Rosie), Ethan (Sam), Sachi (Sophie), Zavier (Sky) and Steven (Bill).

wiring and to report any suspicious activity to police.

A department of education spokesperson said that a “very small” number of water meters have been stolen from schools in recent months.

“...Theseincidentshaveallbeenimmediately reported to Victoria Police,” the spokesperson said.

Sunshine College did not respond to the Star Weekly’s request for comment.

Anyone who witnessed the incidents or has informationisurgedtocontactCrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

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Council is seeking expressions of interest from community representatives interested in joining the Melton Disability Advisory Committee.

Term of committee members appointment is June 202 to December 2024.

The Committee advises Council on issues relating to access and inclusion for people with disability within the City of Melton.

Expressions of interest are open to:

• people with disability (1 position)

• representative from a local community-based agency or group (1 position)

Applications close: Friday 12 April

For further information or assistance with accessibility, contact Council’s Advocacy and Inclusion Officer on 0499 027 473 or email nicolemig@melton.vic.gov.au

(Jacob Pattison) 396042_01

Sunshine College North Campus. (Damjan Janevski) 396878_01

Council to take a stand

By Hannah Hammoud

Brimbank council will raise three motions for consideration at the upcoming Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) state council meeting on May 17.

Council has endorsed three draft motions that will be submitted to the meeting, each highlighting matters of concern, including upgrades to major highways, the establishment of mental health social inclusion action groups, and improvements Victoria’s bus network

The upcoming meeting is an opportunity for council to help influence state government investment and policy on its advocacy priorities.

Council is calling on the state government

to “significantly” increase the level of funding to upgrade major highways in Victoria and to work closer with councils across the state to better understand the deficiencies in their road networks.

Council is also advocating for the state governmenttoincreasesupportforthedelivery of mental health services by expediting the establishment of mental health social inclusion action groups in all local government areas

Onceagain,thestate’sbusnetworkremainsa top concern for Brimbank, with council urging that the state government implement all 10 recommendations outlined in Infrastructure Victoria’s 2023 report ‘Fast, frequent, fair: how buses can better connect Melbourne’.

Council said it will intensify its advocacy

POINT COOK

for significant upgrades to the Calder Freeway and Calder Park Drive, with councillor Bruce Lancashiredescribingthefederalgovernment’s decision to withdraw its $50 million funding commitment as a “travesty of justice”.

“I would have to say it is so disappointing that this funding has been withdrawn. This has been a campaign that has gone back before the administrators, to the previous council and this council has done so much work… to lobby for this,” Cr Lancashire said.

“There’s so much opportunity here [and] fixing the Calder is a very important element of that.

“... There’s so much that’s been done to open up this site, to not continue is a travesty of justice.”

Police briefs

Cannabis plants seized Police have charged two St Albans men after locating a large, sophisticated cannabis set-up at a factory in Fawkner on March 20. Officers executed a search warrant at a factory on Leo Street as part of an ongoing drugs investigation. During a search of the property, police seized 566 cannabis plants with an estimated potential street value of $1.4 million. Two St Albans men, aged 20 and 45, were arrested at the scene. They have been charged with cultivating a large commercial quantity of cannabis.

Fraser rise shooting

Police are investigating following an incident in Fraser Rise on March 20, where shots were fired at a man.

Police believe a blue Audi S3 pulled up alongside a man walking his dog in the Fraser Rise dog park on Monticiano Road about 6.43pm. Two armed men dressed in black exited the vehicle and began firing shots in the direction of a 32-year-old Fraser Rise man. The man was able to run from the area and wasn’t physically injured. The offenders fled in the blue Audi, which was located burnt out on Viridian Drive, Hillside. A second vehicle, a red Holden Commodore, which police believe was likely involved in the incident was located burnt out on Parsley Street, Caroline Springs.

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Brimbank council re-launched its ’Fix the Calder’ campaign last month. Pictured: David Pollard, Mayor Ranka Rasic, Ian Sutherland, and Peter Watson.

Mayor’s message

Cr Kathy Majdlik

This weekend is one of the most important dates of significance on the Christian calendar, Easter. For me and Christians around the world it marks the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour.

The City of Melton is a richly diverse community, made up people from over 150 nations and many faiths, many of whom are also marking important dates of religious significance.

Our Hindu residents are celebrating Holi and it’s also a significant time for our Muslim community as they observe Ramadan, making this an important time of year for many in our community. Attending a place of worship will be important to many members of our City over this period.

I am thinking of those who may be facing challenges during this time and encourage others to extend a helping hand to those who may need it.

It’s also the beginning of the school holidays, and the chance for students to take a break from school and participate in fun activities, make friends or explore new talents. Our community centres and local libraries will host workshops, excursions, parties, and other creative endeavours. We’ve planned so many low cost and free activities for people of all ages to enjoy.

Bookings are essential, and places are filling up fast. To find out more, visit: melton.vic.gov.au

If you’re driving somewhere over this period, please be careful on the roads and take regular breaks so you get to your destination safely. Have a fantastic Easter, stay safe and I’ll see you after the holidays.

You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.

Explore your business vision

Develop a new vision for your business at Venture Melton’s free online strategic planning workshop. The event runs from 10am-1pm on Friday 10 May.

Learn how to analyse the perspectives of stakeholders, assess internal business capabilities and resources, and the key concepts of strategic planning.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll be able to identify key initiatives and know how to make them a reality.

Registrations are essential.

Book online: vmbusinessnetwork.com

Tea workshop

Come and celebrate Eid, with a delightful tea journey. The Islamic celebration marking the end of Ramadan is celebrated by Muslims around the world, including many in the City of Melton.

Quickly and easily connect with us online:

facebook.com/cityofmelton

Learn the benefits of tea, how to identify different origins, its rich cultural history and indulge in a special tasting.

The workshop will run from 11am12.30pm on Tuesday 2 April at the Melton Library and Learning Hub.

Find out more: libraryevents.melton.vic.gov.au

Heritage Festival launch

Kick off the Melton Libraries’ Heritage Festival in style on 18 April. Local bands will provide great tunes, and residents can get a taste of some of what the festival has to offer. Explore fun facts about Harry Houdini, check out the Veterans Association’s new ‘Peace, Love and Unity’ quilt, or go on an audiovisual adventure

Cambridge Ward with Cr Goran Kesic

Everyone will have seen the vital road upgrades taking place around Cambridge Ward.

These exciting projects are part of a series of works across the City that will ease traffic congestion and make our roads safer and better suited to our rapidly growing community. I’m really pleased to say that this work is progressing well.

The roundabout at Caroline Springs Boulevard and Rockbank Middle Road is one of busiest intersections in our community. Replacing the roundabout with traffic lights will help manage congestion during peak periods and boost safety for all road users

including pedestrians and cyclists. Visit conversations.melton.vic.gov. au/csboulevardrockbankmiddleworks to help make your travel plans.

The Taylors Road Corridor Upgrade Plan covers a series of projects designed to improve road connectivity and safety on one of the busiest roads in our City. Visit melton.vic.gov.au/ taylorsroadupgrade for updates and more information.

Nominations are open for the 2025 Community Achievement Awards. Council’s annual Community Achievement Awards celebrate the significant contributions made by

chronicling Australian migrants. The Heritage Festival will also celebrate its new ‘Collecting Family Cookbooks’ program, helping local families digitise their much-loved recipes and making them part of Melton Library’s permanent collection.

Find out more: libraryevents.melton.vic.gov.au

community leaders and volunteers across the municipality.

This is your opportunity to nominate a friend or colleague who you believe deserves recognition for their achievements and contributions to the Melton community. Email communitygrants@melton.vic.gov.au for more information. Nominations close at 5pm, Sunday May 5.

Finally, I’d like to wish you all a very Happy Easter and hope you get to enjoy time with family, friends and neighbours. Please feel free to contact me on 0437 241 436 or goran.kesic@melton.vic.gov.au regarding any Council issues.

Mayor Cr Kathy Majdlik

Deputy Mayor Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Lara Carli

Cr Justine Farrugia

Cr Goran Kesic

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

Funding bid for soccer’s growth

By Liam McNally

Melton council has inspected options for $1 million worth of upgrades at City Vista Recreation Reserve (CVRR) but is yet to refer the project to the upcoming budget.

At a Melton council meeting last month a report was tabled on the options and costs to install a media tower and undercover grandstand seating at CVRR.

CVRR, established in 2019, is the Melton area’s only regional level soccer facility and is home to the Caroline Springs George Cross Football Club.

The stadium currently has more than 600 seats, and can fit a total of about 2000 people. It was built with a media room, but it does not have unimpeded sitelines, the club has been using a scaffolding tower to comply with Football Victoria requirements.

Council has costed undercover tiered seating thatwouldadd240seatsandaprofessionallevel media stand would allow for higher-profile matches to be played at the stadium. Council estimated a fully-enclosed media tower would cost $366,000 and the grandstand would cost $645,000.

The report was noted, however there was

Farewell to a ‘legend’

The Caroline Springs RSL farwelled its oldest veteran when Allan Godfrey died on Wednesday, March 20.

The centenarian, who had spent his adult life in the west and his final years in St Albans, was an integral part of the Caroline Springs RSL and a lauded member of the wider community.

Mr Godfrey signed up for World War II at just17.HisjourneystartedinDarwin,wherehe was stationed for 13 months, and took him to New Guinea, Philippines, Borneo and Malaya where he rescued Australian prisoners of war.

Caroline Springs RSL president Peter Burquest said in his older years Mr Godfrey wasstillhappytoserve,throughsellingbadges, visiting schools and helping with Anazc Day services.

“He got a lot of enjoyment out of it, he always reckoned the RSL had kept him going,” Mr Burquest said. “He was happy to be with us and we were so happy to have him. He’s such a

legend – a legend of that era. He was someone everyone looked up to and the kids loved him. It’s sad he’s not going to be here anymore and the kids are gonna miss him.”

In 2022, Mr Godfrey was honoured with a 80-metre mural on the Aintree Walk of Honour depicting his likeness.

Mr Burquest said Mr Godfrey had always wantedtomakeitto100,andwhenhedid,AFL legend Kevin Sheedy visited to help celebrate.

“He was rapt,” Mr Burquest said. “He was a larrikin… He said ‘you know I barrack for Fitzroy, don’t ya Sheedy?’”

Mr Burquest said if Mr Godfrey had a life philosophy it was “stay happy and don’t worry too much”. “We’re honoured to have known him, and honoured with his presence around the place. He’ll be remembered for a long time.

I hope that on the last route march he’s resting in peace. He’ll go to the right place, he’s a good bloke.”

no mention of the costs being referred to the upcoming budget considerations.

Caroline Springs George Cross Football Club president Mark Sultana said it was “disappointing” to not see the project referred straight to the budget.

“It should be done sooner rather than later so we can bring the facility up to standard to attract a higher level of game,” he said.

“In the western suburbs it is the premier precinct so it should have the highest standard we can give it - We’ve always got to add value and keep it up to date.

Mr Sultana said that in his view, $1million

sounds like an overestimation, however he thinks that the value will not be a waste regardless. “Boutique stadiums are the way soccer will reestablish itself,” he said.

“We’re in a massive growth zone, so people will resonate with an exciting atmosphere in the area and it’ll grow the sport.”

Melton council Recreation and Facility Activation manager Aaron Biscan said there is still time for the upgrades to be considered in the council budget.

“Plans and costings for the proposal can be considered as part of council’s current and future budget deliberations,” he said.

Allan Godfrey. (Supplied)

West’s buses stuck in ‘dark age’

By Cade Lucas

Bus services in the western suburbs are stuck in a ‘dark age’ a community forum was told on Thursday 14 March.

Thecommentwasmadewhenacolourcoded map of west’s bus network was displayed at the ’Why is the West still waiting for Better Buses in 2024?’ forum in Williams Landing.

The map from University of Melbourne public transport expert, Dr John Stone, showed the western suburbs covered in black, the colour indicating poor performance.

Given the the name of the forum, neither the

colour of the map or the ‘dark ages’ comment cameasashocktotheaudienceorthespeakers, including Victorian Greens leader Samantha Ratnam, Melton Labor MP Stephen McGhie andWesternMetroMLC’sTrungLuu(Liberal) and David Ettershank (Legalise Cannabis).

Organised by Sustainable Cities and the Point Cook Action Group, the forum followed on from a protest outside Werribee station on March 9, where activists demanded the state government finally release it’s plan for improved bus services first commissioned in 2021.

Greens leader Samathan Ratnam accused

Colour fun with Holi

The Community organisation Indian Women in Australia (IWIA) is inviting the community to celebrate Holi Festival at Hannah Watts Park on March 24.

IWIA’s Holi in the West event will bring a vibrant and lively atmosphere filled with colour, music, delicious food, and joyful celebrations from noon to 8.30pm.

The iconic colours-smearing wll be accompanied by lively traditional folk and Bollywood music, joyous dance performances, an animal farm for kids, kids and adult rides, shopping stalls, kids’ stalls, and traditional food all wrapped up in colourful attire and vibrant decorations.

IWIA founder Reena Rana said the central idea behind Holi is to foster a sense of unity, joy, and inclusivity among people, regardless of caste, creed, or social status.

“Holi transcends social barriers and brings people together. It’s a time when people forget

theirdifferencesandcometogethertocelebrate with colours, music, and dance,” she said.

“It promotes social harmony and unity among people of all backgrounds. Holi is deeply rooted in Hindu culture and tradition andorganisingHolicelebrationshelpspreserve and promote these cultural values, passing them down from one generation to the next.”

Ms Rana said organising a Holi event for Melbourne’s west is an incredibly rewarding experience filled with joy and satisfaction.

“One of the most fulfilling aspects of organising a Holi event is witnessing the community coming together in celebration. Seeing people from diverse backgrounds, ages, and walks of life gather to enjoy the festivities creates a sense of unity and camaraderie.

“It will be an opportunity to forge new friendships and strengthen existing bonds. Holi events provide plenty of opportunities for guests to capture memorable moments.”

the government of having its priorities wrong.

“They are funnelling billions of dollars into huge projects when people can’t get a bus within half an hour of walking distance from their home,” she said. “That should not be happening in a place like Victoria.”

Truung Lu said the problem in the western suburbswasthatunliketheeast,therewereless public transport options.

“In the east they’ve got buses, trains and trams and trams cover 80 per cent.”

Melton MP Steve McGhie was the only government representative at the forum and said buses faced unlikely opposition from

property developers who didn’t want them in new residential estates and small businesses who didn’t want their customers travelling to spend money elsewhere.

He said he would continue to advocate for better buses within government and encouraged those in attendance to do so too.

“Continue to harass people like myself, the minister and the government,” he said.

David Ettershank summed up the feeling of many when he told the audience: “West is the bestthatitgetsomuchlessandIthinkthatsort of embodies the problems we’re dealing with.”

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Students at state secondary schools in Melbourne’s west will have more learning and development opportunities for outside the classroom with a $100,000 grant awarded to Western Chances.

Western Chances, is a charitable foundation with a focus on empowering people in Melbourne’s western region to achieve their potentialthrougheducationalscholarshipsand life changing opportunities.

Since 2006, Victoria University (VU) has been associated with Western Chances as they provide scholarships, opportunity programs and ongoing support to students in Melbourne’s west.

VU said it is proud that Western Chances will increase its presence at the Footscray Nicholson Campus as part of a new ‘flipped campus’ agreement.

Western Chances founder and chair Terry Bracks said VU becoming a major pro bono partner of Western Chances was an important next step for the two organisations.

“Through this major alliance, we are poised to create new opportunities for our young people and pave the way for increased access to education, skills, learning pathways, and employment,” she said.

“At the heart of this partnership lies a deep-rooted belief in the power of education

and our profound love for the west.

“That’s why we have worked so well together over the past 18 years and are looking forward to the incredible journey ahead.

“We are thrilled to receive this funding which will empower young people through access to opportunities to nurture and grow their talent and leadership.”

This builds on the successful VU initiatives such as access scholarships, which provides an additional$1000toWesternChancesrecipients studying at VU, while bringing secondary school students onto campuses to experience university life, and student engagement opportunities.

VU Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker said equity in education was a strongfocusintherecentlyreleasedUniversities Accord and the elevated partnership with Western Chances speaks to that point.

“The expanded space at Footscray Nicholson Campus will enable Western Chances staff, students and volunteers to really elevate their support of young people in the west of Melbourne,” he said.

“VU is famous for providing the highest quality of equitable opportunities for all. We are delighted to continue this proud tradition withWesternChancesnow,tomorrowandinto the future.”

Professor Adam Shoemaker, Footscray MP Katie Hall, VU student Karlee McCulloh, with Terry Bracks AM, Founding Chair Western Chances with Deputy Premier Ben Carroll. (Supplied)

Kritika Sharma and her son Rehansh, 2, and Reena Rana. (Damjan Janevski) 394787_02

Meet the Principal

Effie Sultana

Vision At St Albans Heights PS our graduates will be empowered to thrive, collaborate and think critically. They will be supported by the school community and will be at the centre of all decision making. All students will be provided with highly effective instruction, in every classroom, every day. They will have sound literacy and numeracy skills and an inquiring mindset to create opportunities to live successful lives. They will develop positive social and emotional capabilities and a strong moral compass in order to effectively contribute to society.

VALUES

St Albans Heights Primary School’s values are:

H.E.R.B.

Honesty Excellence Respect Belonging

We provide a structured, supportive and motivating educational environment where every child experiences a stimulating curriculum with challenging and achievable goals that will meet their individual needs.

We offer Physical Education, Visual Arts, STEM and Japanese as our specialist areas and we offer English as an Additional Language Support, small group and individual learning support for students needing assistance and for those who are above in their learning. We offer a free breakfast club, before and after school care and so much more!

ST ALBANS HEIGHTS PRIMARY SCHOOL

1 Norwich Street St Albans

Phone 9366 3127 | www.sahps.vic.edu.au

Karen Wood

Karen Wood is the Principal of Movelle Primary school in Kings Park. Karen embraces the motto of ‘Our students Our future’ in her boutique school. In her 15 years as a Principal Class member, Karen always embraces a supportive and inclusive leadership style, guiding her school to success and earning the Gold Status in School-Wide Positive Behavioural Support (SWPBS).

Under her leadership over the past 5 years, Movelle has not only rebranded itself visually and academically, but also in fostering an environment where every student feels valued and supported.

Beyond the awards and international recognition, Karen remains deeply invested in the wellbeing of Movelle’s students. She is often found in classrooms, engaging with students, providing support and guidance to her staff. Karen’s open door policy encourages collaboration and fosters a sense of community among students, staff, community groups and parents.

Karen has been a long standing advocate for inclusivity, ensuring that every student, regardless of background or ability has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.

Elaine Hazim

I am proud to lead VUSC - a welcoming, caring and inclusive school community. I started my career as a teacher at Deer Park Secondary College which is now the site of our Junior Campus. Prior to teaching, I worked as a medical microbiologist but decided that teaching was my passion and this is still the case today. I was appointed as Principal in 2019, after serving as an Assistant Principal for six years. As both a teacher and mother of two boys, I believe that all students can achieve success in their chosen pathway, with conscientious effort, persistence, resilience and the right support. Our school gives students every opportunity to explore their passions and interests, to help them grow in their own unique way. I wamly invite prospective students and their parents/carers to our Open House event on Monday 22nd April to see what makes VUSC so special.

VICTORIA UNIVERSITY SECONDARY COLLEGE

39 Gum Rd, Kings Park VIC 3021

Phone 03 9366 8892 | www.movelleps.vic.edu.au

movelle.ps@education.vic.gov.au

Rita Grima

Rita Grima has worked in education for over 30 years and has held the principalship at St Columba’s College since 2018. Her immense leadership experience has made her a great asset to the St Columba’s College community, and the programs and processes introduced over the last five years have pushed the College forward and continued the legacy of innovation.

As a mother of three daughters, Rita’s commitment to girls’ education runs deep. Her belief in challenging students to think big and to be women of change, is imbued throughout the College.

When asked what makes St Columba’s College special? Rita responded:

“Our students and their commitment and positive attitude, appreciation of being challenged to be their best and using their voices in standing up against injustices;

Our Sisters of Charity heritage that challenges us to always put the other at the centre;

The staff who are committed, generous, creative and are focussed on delivering the best learning and wellbeing outcomes for our students;

And the special connection that successive generations of women within a family have to the College. They are proud that St Columba’s is a part of their family’s history.”

12670567-AA13-24

12678638-FC13-24

Council misses reserve mark

By Hannah Hammoud

Aftersevenyearsandtwomilliondollars,local clubs have been told that the long-awaited upgrades to Green Gully Reserve will no longer go ahead.

At the council meeting on March 19, a divided Brimbank council eventually voted to scrap the planned sports facilities at the site. Council said it has determined the project to be both too costly and too complex after it discovered Aboriginal artefacts at the site which could potentially blow the cost estimate of the project from $16,150,000 to $17,700,000.

Over the last four financial years, council

has spent more than $2 million on the project.

In 2022 council also extended the project timeline by an additional 12 months, with the revised completion date of June 2025.

Councillor Bruce Lancashire attempted to raiseanalternatemotiontosavetheprojectby seeking alternate funding options if required by delaying other projects.

However the decision was ultimately made by mayor Ranka Rasic after a stalemate was reached between councillors. Crs Bruce Lancashire, Maria Kerr, Virginia Tachos, VictoriaBorgandThomasO’Reillyeachvoted to save the project but were unsuccessful due to the votes of councillors Jasmine Nguyen, Jae Papalia, Thuy Dang, Sam David and

Ranka Rasic.

“We have spent $2 million of ratepayers’ money already on this failed project,” said Cr Kerr.

Green Gully Soccer Club general manager

Raymond Mamo said the club had been left blindsided by council’s decision.

“We’re extremely disappointed with the outcome. I had no idea that this was even being discussed at the council meeting. As far as I was concerned this was done, this was concluded… it’s already been delayed by over a year,” he said.

“It’s just come out of left field.”

Mr Mamo said the club is struggling to keep up with the growing demand for sport

Cancer takes a heavy financial toll

Western suburbs woman Deb Fryers has always lived a full and exciting life, until she was diagnosed with blood cancer and her world was flipped upside down.

Diagnosed with Primary Myelofibrosis in 2019, Ms Fryers went from being extremely independent, earning a strong income, travelling the world, and owning her own home to the complete opposite.

MsFryerssaidshewasforcedtosellherhome as she couldn’t afford to pay the mortgage. At the same time, her condition left her unable to work which landed her on the disability pension.

“I lost my parents quite young so I didn’t have the family to help me. There were about two or three years of real homelessness, couch surfing and sleeping in my car,” she said. AfteralongbattlewiththeVictorianhousing department , Ms Fryers now lives in long term permanent housing.

While continuing her health battles, Ms Fryers has found solace in the Leukaemia Foundation which she said had been extraordinary.

“They recently gave me $100 for my glasses because I have to wear glasses now, because my eyes are deteriorating,” she said.

“Theyalsooffermentalsupportaswellwhich I didn’t know about.“

The Leukaemia Foundation is also supporting Ms Fryers financially with transport vouchers to enable her to go to her medical appointments.

Ms Fryers’ story is only one of the 50 per cent of patients who have had to leave their jobs and are unable to return to work following a diagnosis, according to the Leukaemia Foundation.

“Research shows that more than 43 per cent of the 19,500 patients diagnosed with blood cancer in the past year, experienced out of pocket treatment costs totalling hundreds, and sometimes thousands of dollars,” said a Leukaemia Foundation spokesperson.

According to the foundation, the weighted average out-of-pocket costs to an individual with blood cancer ranges from $5,000-$11,000, comparedwithothercancerpatientswhoincur around $2,500 in out-of-pocket costs.

Ms Fryers said she her finances are now stable and has learnt to live within her means.

“I feel the most well I’ve been in a really long time because I have a great support system, I have a good therapist and I have made really good friends,” she said.

“Although I still face financial crisis.”

Jennifer Pittorino

in the municipality.

“For season 2024, we had 1295 expressions of interest for players to come and play at Green Gully soccer club, but we are limited to the number of people we can accept.

“Sport is growing, these days it is really demanding on clubs. We struggle from year to year. This decision is really putting back sports in the western suburbs… there is a lot of work that’s gone into it by previous and current councillors. This is not good news, and for the detriment of the children in the western suburbs. We’re talking about the mental well being of kids and being active and playing sports. The most important part is these kids need to be playing sport.”

2025 school zones out

The state government has released next year’s school zones on the Find my School website, making it easier for families to enrol in their local government schools for 2025.

The updated website will help give families certainty as they begin the process of enrolling their child in a government school.

Next year, 25 school zones in Victoria will change to improve accessibility and accommodate six new schools that will open.

As enrolment processes start to begin in early Term 2, the updated 2025 school zones will give families with children starting primary and secondary school next year the most up to date information.

The Find my School website allows families to find their designated neighbourhood government school and other government schools nearby – giving them clarity on what their government school options are for their children.

Schools can be found by typing in a residential address or searching by school name or categories such as primary, secondary, or specialist school.

The 2024 school zones are still available and should be used for any further enrolment decisions for the 2024 school year.

To find your local school zone, visit findmyschool.vic.gov.au and to learn more about the enrolment process, visit vic.gov.au/starting-school.

Deb Fryers and her dog Billy. (Jacob Pattison) 393178_03

Tuesday mornings at the Keilor Basketball Netball Stadium have been buzzing with the sound of bouncing balls and shuttlecocks for the past six weeks of social table tennis and badminton sessions.

From beginners to seasoned players, these sessions catered for anyone seeking a casual and social sports experience.

Participants were able to enjoy a welcoming atmosphere, opportunities to socialise with fellow players, and chances to build and improve their skills in both table tennis and badminton.

While the six weeks of fun has now wrapped up, Star Weekly photographer Jacob Pattison was able to pay a visit to one of the sessions on March 19, to capture all the action.

Peter Sidley enjoying a social game of badminton.

Left: Aruni Hewapathiranage has her eye on the prize. Centre: There is plenty of fun to be had at the Keilor Basketball Netball Stadium. Right: Bruce Angus is quick on his feet.

A place for everyone

Harmony Day is all about belonging, and at St Albans Heights Primary School (SAHPS) there is no better way to celebrate the occasion than with its annual welcome barbecue.

SAHPS community liaison officer Leanne Etemovic said the day was an opportunity for families to meet the staff and get to know otherfamiliesthatmakeuptheschool’sdiverse community.

“Our families got to experience each other’s cultures, enjoyed Henna, face painting, experienced sack races, egg and spoon races and made badges and art displays to show their solidarity that followed this year’s theme of ‘Everyone Belongs’,” Ms Etemovic said.

“We also invited families to come dressed in their cultural dress or orange, to showcase our dynamic multicultural community that we here at SAHPS are very proud of. Families participated in zumba sessions, performed cultural dances and much more.”

Top: It was a sea of colours for St Albans Heights Primary School’s Harmony Day celebrations. Above: Student Elijah and his mum Angalina with beaming smiles. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 388043

Prep student Edward.

Prep student Meher.

Grade 1 student Roslyn.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Junior Soccer

Sunshine Heights Junior Soccer Club is on the hunt more girls to join its junior soccer teams from ages under-8s through to under-14s. If you are keen to join, training is held every Tuesday and Thursday at Castley Reserve from 5.30pm, except for under-14 girls who train from 6.30pm. ■ theclub@sunshineheightsjsc.com.au

Girl Guides

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

■ Carolyn, 0418 536 084

Sunshine Repair Cafe

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

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

Al-Anon Family Groups

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

Confidential meetings held at the Sydenham Neighbourhood Centre (rear of library) every Wednesday from 1-2:30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary.

Card games

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

■ Leisa, 0425 768 808

Keilor Day View Club

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

■ Robyn, 0425 387 880

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

■ 9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au

Deer Park Lions Club

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

■ Michael, 0417 307 572

Sunshine Community Brass

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

■ Andrew, 0419 444 620

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Self Defence

This program is perfect for beginners, but open to all females who are eager to learn and grow in this dynamic martial art.??Join Complete MMA Derrimut and discover

the empowering and transformative benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and self defence. Experienced instructors will guide you through the fundamentals, helping you build confidence, strength, and self-defence skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.??Don’t miss this opportunity to challenge yourself, make new friends, and unleash your full potential.

■ completemixedmartialarts@gmail.com

St Albans senior citizens

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

■ Roma, 0435 991 064

Sunrise Social Groups

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

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

Seniors lunch

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

■ Pamela, pcostello46@hotmail.com

Reusable goods

Declutter your home, help someone in need and support a more sustainable future by being part of the Brimbank Reusable Goods Drop-off Day. Brimbank residents can conveniently drop-off their unwanted household items for reuse at this no charge event on April 20 from 9am-2pm at West Sunshine Community Centre.

■ https://ow.ly/kQCw50QBwKU

Special Easter Services

Looking for somewhere to celebrate the meaning of Easter? Brimbank Presbyterian Church are holding two special services during this time at Sydenham Neighbourhood House located in the Watergardens shopping centre near the railway station. The first is on Good Friday, March 29, and the second on Sunday, March 31. Both services will begin at 10am. All are welcome.

■ 9307 6583

Easter egg hunt

Join in for an Easter Hunt in the St Albans Town Centre. Children of all ages are invited to take part in a hunt that will take them on a journey through the town centre. Find the code words to complete the hunt and you’ll receive a special Easter gift. The free Easter hunt will take place on March 27, from 4-7pm staring at the St Albans Library.

■ https://shorturl.at/pAIU0

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

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

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

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, 0425 705 150

This week’s photographer’s choice is the Ultimate Harry Potter experience at Wyndham Cultural Centre featuring Lily Phung and Ryan Jordan. (Damjan Janevski). 395593_01

SPORTS QUIZ

1. In which sport can you win the Davis Cup?

2. How many kilometres is an Ironman Triathlon?

3. What is an octuple champion?

4. And who is the only boxer to win this accolade?

5. At which Olympic Games did Simone Biles make history by becoming the first woman since 1984 to win four gymnastics gold medals in a single Olympics since 1984?

6. What nickname is the South African Rugby Union team known as?

7. John Lowe was the first player to get a perfect score in what sport?

True or false: tennis was originally played indoors?

In curling, what is the top weight of a standard stone?

How wide is a gymnastic beam?

A 2024 Indian Wells tennis match between Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev was interrupted by what unusual disruption?

12. Jason Demetriou coaches which NRL team?

The WNBL team Southside Flyers were formerly known by what name?

14. Which two states took part in the 2023/24 Sheffield Shield Final?

15. Ellyse Perry holds the record for taking how many wickets?

16. Which New Zealander was named player of the series in the 2024 Australia-New Zealand Test match series?

17. Swimmer Cate Campbell called which rival nation 'sore losers' in 2023?

18. Australian-born surfer Connor O’Leary will represent which country at the Paris Olympic Games?

19. Which nation made a $3 billion bid for the ATP and WTA tennis tours in March?

20. Basketballer Joe Ingles currently plays for which NBA team?

21. Cricketers Sophie Molineux, Ellyse Perry and Georgia Wareham won the 2024 Women's Premier League with which team?

22. What specific names does the Tasmania Football Club give to their club colours of green, red, and yellow?

23. Sydney Rooster Spencer Leniu was suspended for how many matches after Round 1 of the 2024 NRL season?

24. Which basketball team did the Southside Flyers defeat to win the 2024 WNBL Championship?

25. Which former AFL footballer, set to be inducted into the Carlton Hall of Fame, kicked 575 goals for the club?

26. Which two basketball teams are facing off in the 2024 NBL Finals?

27. American boxer Keith Thurman pulled out of a scheduled March 30 contest against which Australian fighter?

28. Papua New Guinea-born Xavier Coates plays as a winger for which NRL team?

29. Which NFL quarterback is said to be on the shortlist of running mates for US presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr?

30. WrestleMania XL is set to be held in April in which US state?

A

226.3

Tennis

1.

2.

km 3.

boxer who has won major world titles in eight different weight classes 4. Manny Pacquiao 5. 2016, Rio de Janeiro 6. The Springboks 7. Darts 8. True 9. 44 pounds (19.96kg)

10. 4 inches (10.16 centimetres) 11. A swarm of bees 12. South Sydney Rabbitohs 13. Dandenong Rangers 14. Western Australia and Tasmania 15. Six 16. Matt Henry 17. USA 18. Japan 19. Saudi Arabia 20. Orlando Magic 21. Royal Challengers Bangalore 22. Myrtle, rose, and primrose 23. Eight 24. Perth Lynx 25. Brendan Fevola 26. Melbourne United and Tasmania JackJumpers 27. Tim Tszyu 28. Melbourne Storm 29. Aaron Rodgers 30. Pennsylvania

Simone Biles

Carlos Alcaraz

2903

To

ACROSS

1 Baby dog (coll) (3)

3 Linguistic (10)

10 Zeppelin (7)

11 Bedbound (7)

12 Stimulus (9)

13 That following (4)

15 African horned animal (10)

17 Agricultural land (4)

19 Old sailor (coll) (4)

20 Taking over leadership (10)

23 German automobile manufacturer (4)

25 Work independently (9)

27 Speech (7)

28 Ships (7)

29 Expert (10)

30 Idiot boxes (3)

DOWN

1 Act of stealing other’s work (10)

2 Narrow-minded (9)

4 Pleasure (9)

5 Doubly (5)

6 Gulch (6)

7 Sepals of a flower (5)

8 Vein of metal (4)

9 A Japanese religion (6)

14 Literary assistant who copies manuscripts, etc (10)

16 Us (9)

18 Relative position (9)

21 The best at (6)

22 Beachgoer’s two-piece (6)

24 Father’s brother (5)

25 Ultimate (5)

26 Inserts (4)

DECODER WORDFIT

3 LETTERS

9-LETTER WORD

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 nouns ending in “s”.

Today’s Aim:

No. 178

The process of writing in shorthand is known as what?

How many petals do geranium flowers usually have?

What river runs through the city of Budapest?

Teresa Palmer (pictured) and Nicholas Hoult starred in which 2013 film based on a novel by Isaac Marion?

What is an adze?

Where is the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center located?

Kevin Bartlett played 18

8 Who is the protagonist of H. Rider Haggard’s 1885 novel KingSolomon’sMines?

9 What number was the last Apollo mission?

10 Which part of the lamb is known as the ‘fry’?

No. 178

No. 178

No. 178

Lexus Luxury lives up to name

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Effectively an upmarket version of the Toyota LandCruiser, the Lexus LX large premium SUV has been around since the mid-1990s.

The latest (fourth generation) LX arrived here at the end of 2021 shortly after the new LC300. It comes with petrol or diesel power, four equipment variants, three seating options and a host of new safety and tech features.

ThefourvariantsarebaseLX,SportsLuxury, F Sport, and Ultra Luxury. The first three are available with either petrol or diesel engines, the Ultra Luxury is petrol only.

Prices range from $151,561 for an LX500d seven-seaterthroughto$213,561fortheLX600 Ultra Luxury.

Styling

There’s not a lot of scope for adventurous styling in large 4WD/SUVs such as the LandCruiser, Nissan Patrol or Lexus LX, so much of the work on differentiating between them goes into the grille.

In the case of the LX the designers certainly haven’t pulled any punches. The well-established Lexus spindle grille is huge and dominates the front of the vehicle.

In the entry-level LX, Sports Luxury and Ultra Luxury variants it features seven brushed chrome horizontal bars. To our eyes such so much chrome in such a large grille doesn’t look like it belongs in a premium luxuryvehiclesuchasthis.Wemuchpreferthe more subtle black mesh fill used in the F Sport models. Other we talked to had the opposite opinion so it’s very much down to personal taste.

In profile there’s little to distinguish the LX from its LandCruiser sibling. The base LX models rolls on 20-inch alloy wheels; the higher-specvariantsallget22-incherstogether with a standard moonroof.

The rear features an eye-catching full-width LED light bar with LED taillights.

Interior

The LX comes with the choice of four, five or seven seats depending on the grade. Our test car was the flagship Ultra Luxury and the name says it all. With just two individual rear seats, it’s clearly aimed more at the corporate rather than the family market.

The rear occupants are seated in twin captain’s chairs with 48-degree reclining; massage function; deluxe headrests; passenger-side ottoman, and exclusive quilted upholstery. The central touchscreen between the rear seats allows passengers to control the seats as well as the rear climate control.

Unusually, although the rear seats can be reclined, they do not have length adjustment and legroom can be restricted for taller passengers. The problem can be alleviated, subject to the agreement from front seat occupants, with the seat tilt mechanism moving the front seats forward.

Safety

Standard safety features across the LX range include 10 airbags; autonomous emergency braking including for pedestrians and cyclists; active traction control; dynamic radar cruise control; lane departure warning and correction; intersection turn assist; road speed sign assist; downhill assist control; hill start assist; crawl control; front and rear parking sensors and support brake; reversing camera with washer; pre-collision safety system with emergency steering assist; multi-terrain select and monitor; blind spot monitoring; rear cross traffic alert; adaptive high-beam System; 360-degree camera; and tyre pressure warning.

Engines/transmissions

The previous V8 petrol and diesel engines are gone, replaced by the 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel, as used in the LandCruiser, but also with the option of a new 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol.

Both engines have smaller capacities than their superseded equivalents but with

significantly more power and torque but lower fuel consumption. Specifically, the petrol unit petrol V6 puts out 305kW at 5200rpm and 650Nm from 2000-3600rpm; while the diesel produces 227kW of power and 700Nm of torque from 1600-2600rpm.

Bothenginesarepairedtoa10-speedtorque converter automatic transmission.

Infotainment

Three screens come into play for the LX. In the centre console There’s a 12.3-inch colour touchscreen for infotainment features including satellite navigation and smartphone mirroringofwiredAppleCarPlayandAndroid Auto.

Directly below there is a 7.0-inch display that controls the off-road settings as well as air conditioning. In front of the driver is an 8.0-inch LCD screen with normal dashboard information.

There are USB-A and USB-C sockets below the centre console as well as in the rear where there is also a HDMI input. There is a wireless phone charger located in the rear armrest / control panel with two more USB-C ports inside the armrest.

There are touchscreens mounted to the back of the front seats which allow rear passengers

to access AM, FM and digital audio as well as their choice of entertainment through either USB or HDMI using wireless headphones.

Audiophiles will be blown away by the premium Mark Levinson Reference sound system with, believe it or not, 25 speakers.

Driving

Getting into and out of the big LX is a bit of a climb but is helped by side steps, interior grab handles and height-adjustable suspension which enables the vehicle to be lowered by 27mm. Then, depending on the drive mode selected, it can be raised to a maximum of 103mm.

The push-button start / stop button has been enhanced and now comes with a fingerprint sensor for added security. It can cater for up to 10 different drivers

LikeitsLandCruisercousinthesheerbulkof the Lexus LX doesn‘t really suit it to the urban environment. Having said that the range of cameras, sensors and safety features such as rear cross traffic alert and lane departure warning should keep most drivers out of trouble.

The turning circle of 12.8 metres is impressively tight for such a vehicle of its size.

Once out into open territory the LX600 was

a delight to drive. It’s smooth, comfortable, refined and powerful with impressively low noise levels. No matter what the road surface the big Japanese 4WD simply loped over it with never a sign of it being unsettled.

The ride is relatively firm which will satisfy most Australian drivers.

The 10-speed gearbox is seamless and almost seems able to anticipate when changes are required.

During our night drive we were able to test the Lexus BladeScan system which adjusts the high beam on the LED headlights to provide optimum lighting without affecting other drivers. Once we got used to the blue high beamlightfluctuatingonandoffonthedriver’s display screen, we found it worked well.

The big Lexus is a thirsty beast with fuel consumption listed at 12.1 litres per 100 kilometres. We averaged 12.9 L/100km during our test.

Summing up

Giventhatitwasourtestcar,we’vedeliberately concentrated on the LX600 Ultra Luxury in this review but will be getting into the family-oriented seven-seat LX500d shortly and will take it out onto our favourite off-road route.

Large spindle grille is the standout feature of the Lexus LX. (Pictures: Supplied)

Taylors Lakes wilkommen new German recruits

Theysayfootballisagameofconnectionwhere people of all backgrounds can unite behind a common goal.

But it’s rare that those features are as clearly on display as they were on March 17, when Taylors Lakes’ inaugural senior women’s side welcomed three German backpackers to try out the sport for the first time in a pre-season hit out against Keilor Park.

Paola Richter, Alina Bernhardt and Hatice Bozkurt were introduced to the sport by Lions coach Joe Antonetti.

Antonetti had been renting out a property to the three women who are based in Australia temporarily on work and travel visas.

After inviting them to practice, Antonetti said he had no qualms about giving the trio the authentic Australian experience of playing their first proper match.

“The group really embraced them, it didn’t matter that they had no experience, we were just glad to have them,” he said.

“They’re still learning the rules… [but] they didn’t want to miss the opportunity to play a sport on the other side of the world.

“I wasn’t the most skilled player, so I

understand the value of being taught the basics.”

Given her natural height, Richter was thrust into the guts as a backup ruck late in the match while Richter and Bozkurt were given game

time mostly in flank and wing positions.

For their part Richter, Bernhardt and Bozkurt had their hands full coming to terms with the complexities of the game.

Each of them confessed they struggled

Blues ready to go again

By Tara Murray

Keilor coach Mick McGuane is optimistic his side will have another strong year in the Essendon District Football League premier division.

Coming off an undefeated season, while the club’s reserves, thirds, under-18s and top under-16 side all went deep in finals, the Blues had plenty to celebrate last season.

McGuane said it had been another strong pre-season.

“We’ve done some good training blocks and got through the practice match stage, relatively healthily,“ he said.

“Now it’s about seeing who is available week to week. We have nine players contracted to Victorian Football League lists and another one training.

“Wehave15playersinthepathways,14atthe Western Jets and one at the Calder Cannons.

“That is what we are about.”

McGuane said someone like Campbell Gray was one that stood out of those at the higher level.

He said while he was earmarked for their senior program they believed he was a VFL

calibre player. A conversation about that has ultimately ended in him signing with Essendon’s VFL side.

TheBlueshavemanagedtokeepthemajority of last season’s premiership team in tact, with 20 of the 22 players re-signing.

Matthew Clark will play over the other side of the city, while Jonathan Marsh is moving back to New South Wales.

McGuane said a forward of Clark’s calibre was hard to replace, while Marsh’s work commitments had changed and he had to take it.

The Blues haven’t added many new players, but have added two players who have been on AFL lists or rookie lists.

Josh Honey, who played his junior football with Keilor returns to the club, while Cody Brand joins the club from the Sunbury Lions.

“Cody is a young player still finding his feet and it getting better every week,” McGuane said.

“It’s out Clark and in Brand, who will play a bit of ruck as well.

“Josh is finding his feet after leaving the AFL system. We gave him time and let him breath and we didn’t see him before Christmas.

particularly with one aspect of the game: handballing.

Nonetheless, Richter said it was an unforgettable experience.

“It was fun [and[ a bit scary,” she said. “The team is great, we didn’t feel like we had only been there for a short moment.

“They gave us a good feeling.”

But as enjoyable as it was, their footballing career is destined to be short lived.

They’ll all be returning to Europe in April, meaning they’ll miss the Lions’ historic first regular season matchup against the Sunbury Kangaroos on April 13.

Antonetti said he believes his side was showing positive signs

“It’s the aim of every club to have a senior women’s team and this year we bit the bullet and made the decision,” he said.

“There’s a core group of girls who have been involved in junior teams for a few years at the club.

“The intent was really good [in pre-season], the girls have a great bond among themselves.”

Oliver Lees

Sports shorts

Bowls

Deer Park’s Jay Bye-Norris claimed the Bowls Victoria metro west champion of champions singles title. Bye-Norris was in scintillating touch as he progressed through the stages and in the final producing a near flawless display of bowls claiming the title 25-5. He will now play off in state champions week against the champions of all the other regions.

VTCA

Keilor Park has announced the signing of Ben Schwarze for the next Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 3 season. Schwarze has been appointed senior captain as he returns to the club after playing the past 10 seasons with Glenroy. Schwarze boasts a career tally of 3487 runs, scoring 306 runs at an average of 34 from his 11 games this season, including a century and a 50. The Devils finished bottom in division 2 this season and will be relegated.

Coates Talent League

“He’s done quite significant work since.”

McGuane said there were a number of youngsters who would also push for senior spots, with history showing McGuane isn’t afraid to give them a chance.

Despitegoingthroughtheseasonundefeated last year, the Blues had 36 different players play senior football.

“We didn’t lose a game [doing that] so it bodes well for the future,” McGuane said. “The players are patient and understand why the system works the way it does.”

The Blues kick off their season on Friday in their annual Good Friday clash with Strathmore.

The match also doubles as a grand final rematch.

While there’s been a coach change and some player changes at the Mores, McGuane has stayed focused on his side.

“I never try to get caught up with all the innuendo,” he said. “We’ll wait until the team comes out and see how we are against and how we think they will play.

“They’ve added [Trent] Durmont which adds depth in the middle... They’ve got some very experienced players in the back line.”

There’s Keilor talent aplenty in the Western Jets squad for the Coates Talent League boys season. Fourteen Jets have been named in the squad, including Lucca Grego, who has been part of the Vic Metro training squad. Xavier Kardachi is the sole representative from Sunshine and Hillside’s Noah Asciak is also in the squad. Caroline Springs’ Lukas Hare and Christian Kitanovski are also in the squad. The Jets season was due to get underway on Saturday against the Northern Knights, after deadline.

Coates Talent League

Four Keilor players have been named in the Western Jets’ Coates Talent League girls squad for this year. Estelle Grimaud, Dakota Reynolds, Lexi Kerry and Olivia Costello are in the squad, along with Hillside’s Ella Davis and Ella Stasinousky. The Jets season gets underway on April against the Sandringham Dragons, with the side having a bye in round one.

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Hatice Bozkurt, Paola Richter and Alina Bernhardt. (Anthony Villani)

Majority of Keilor’s premiership side is back in 2024. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 362605_03

Strong Storm blows in to claim T20 premiership

Sydenham-Hillside made short work of Coburg to claim the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association women’s division 1 T20 premiership.

The top two teams faced off in the decider on March 17, but it was all one way traffic as the Storm won the match in less than 20 overs.

Both teams finished the regular season with seven wins from their 12 matches.

Brunswick batted first on Sunday and was bowled out for just 64. It was all single wicket takersfortheStorm,whichusedsevendifferent bowlers.

The Storm batters wasted no time chasing down the runs, finishing 1-69 in just 7.5 overs.

Arabella Wilson top scored with 22 before retiring due to give the other batters an opportunity.

Wilson, who has come out from England this season, said she had really enjoyed the challenge of playing with the Storm and in Australia.

“I’ve had a great experience out here,” she said. “I’m very proud of the team and the girls have worked hard to get there.

“To get the runs within 10 overs is really good.”

Wilson said that from the start of the season throughtotheend,hercrickethadimprovedas had the rest of the team.

Storm women’s cricket representative Michelle Repacholi said winning a premiership meant a lot to the group.

“We’ve had our ups and downs but we improved and in the end we had 20 players come together and developed throughout the season.

“We got one premiership and the other side made the semi finals.”

Repacholi said they approached anyone they could in the off season as they tried to get more numbersforthesides.Repacholiwascaptainof the second side.

She said it didn’t matter if they knew how to play or not, it was about having fun.

“We can teach them to play,” she said. “We’ve created an amazing fantastic environment.

“We had about 150 people watching and more than half were kids.”

Repacholi said the reason for the women’s

program was to ensure their juniors girls have somewhere to play cricket in the future. She said they need to ensure that the program is successful for the next generation.

“We are creating that pathway for these

Thunder signs new stars

By Tara Murray

Keilor Thunder has further enhanced its National Basketball League 1 South women’s title hopes with the signing of two more Women’s National Basketball League stars.

Having already locked in Maddy Rocci and Isabelle Bourne, the Thunder announced MelbourneBoomerpairTeraReedandPenina Davidson had also joined the club.

Davidson has been a key player for the Boomers for a number of seasons, while Reed was a sixth player of the year finalist in the recent WNBL season.

Thunder coach Krisiti Harrower said she had spoken to the pair last year about coming across and it had fallen into place.

“There are huge signings for us,” she said. “It is good for the program.

“I got to know who these girls are being part of the Boomer program. I tried to recruit them early days but we didn’t know what was happening with the New Zealand team and the Olympics, “They’ve now committed, which is huge. They want to come to play for me which is really good for the program, which is one thing I wanted this year.”

Harrower said for her when she was putting the team together, it wasn’t just about the players, but the people they were as well.

She said it was a nice feeling that these top line players want to come and play for her.

“I played at the highest level and I had the respect of the players,” she said.

“The biggest thing for me, the thing I loved most was teaching. Giving back my experience.

“I worked with Maddy Rocci at the Opals last year and she wanted me to mentor her. These people want to come and play for me, it does add some more pressure.”

Harrower said the hardest thing early on for the group, but making sure they get the connections right on court.

With WNBL commitments, the squad is yet to train together.

“The hardest thing has been trying to get everyone together,” she said. “With a new coach, new players and new system.

“It’ll be a big first few rounds trying to bring everyone together. We might have to play a bit on instinct to get us through early.”

Harrower said the signing of high quality talent would help the younger Keilor girls help further develop.

She said while they might not have as many chances with a deeper squad, it will only benefit them in the long run.

“They’ll come in and push our players and

push them to get better,” she said.

“The young ones get to train against quality players day in day out and learn so much training against them.

“They need to be sponges.”

The Thunder start its season on April 5 against the Frankston Blues.

Harrower knows with the squad they’ve put together there is some big expectations.

“There is pressure,” she said. “I have put a really good team together.

“We’ve got a lot of WNBL players who are great people as a start. Hopefully we’ll get the squad together really quickly and put everything in place.

“As every team, I hope we can do well and hopefully win a championship. I hope we are right up there.”

kids,” she said. “We need to keep this going, we don’t want them not wanting to play. “We need to make sure that the momentum keeps on going.”

Tara Murray

Knights on the improve

The Melbourne Knights’ National Premier League season is starting to get on track.

After a slow start, the Knights have come away with points in their last three matches, including two wins.

Speaking before Friday night’s match with Hume City, which was after deadline, coach Ben Surey said it was nice to finally start to see some reward for effort.

“It was a difficult start losing the first two games and we had a bit of a wake up call against Port Melbourne,” he said.

“It’s been really pleasing since then, we’re heading in a good direction and played some really good football.

“The last three weeks we could have had a really good goal difference if we’d been able to score.”

Surrey in his first season as coach said they knew it was going to take some time to come together with a new squad

He said it had taken a bit longer than they would have liked. One of the areas that Surey knows they need to continue to improve is converting on the scoreboard.

“The first two weeks we were struggling to create chances and it was a real focus for us,” he said.

“Now we’re creating a lot of chances, it’s just the final ball and final finishing.

“When we’re able to achieve that, it’ll be good to watch.”

The Knights were in action on Friday against Hume City, which despite four wins from its first six games, had a coaching game during the week.

Surey said before that game that had expected a tough challenge, which was made a little harder by the coaching change.

There is no NPL action this weekend due to Easter, but the Knights will still be in action in the Australia Cup.

The Knights, in their first match of the knockout tournament, drew fellow NPL side South Melbourne.

Surey said they were hoping for a big crowd on Thursday night.

“Hopefully we’ll get a bit of crowd for the tie,” he said. “There’s not many other NPL side meeting each other.

“It’s a big draw for us and looking forward to it.”

Tara Murray

Sydenham-Hillside’s premiership winning team. (Supplied)

Above: Penina Davidson. (AAP Image/Mark Evans) Right: Tera Reed. (AAP Image/Rob Prezioso)

Storm to come back better after top grade loss

Sydenham-Hillside is proud in defeat but is wondering what might have been after the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division.

Playing in its first season in the top grade, the Storm won through to the decider against Deer Park, which was in the same spot 12 months earlier.

The Lions showed their strength across the last two weekends to seal their first senior division premiership.

Storm coach Warren Hackney had mixed feelings after the game.

“I’m really proud to get to that point of being a senior division grand final,” he said.

“You know, it’s been the top two sides in the whole of the VTCA, it’s a huge achievement for a club that came in at entry level, seven or eight years ago.

“We’re really proud of how far we’ve come but still a bit of bitter swallow because when you make it to these games to you want to do well and you want to put your best foot forward and unfortunately, we’re out classed

and it just gives us here the driver I think now to to want to try and push ahead and make amends and and go on better.”

The Storm needed early runs on Saturday if it was any chance of pushing the Lions.

It resumed at 8-141 still well behind the Lions first innings of 225.

It didn’t take long for the Storm’s innings to be over, bowled out for 157, and giving the Lions a first innings lead.

Skipper Anthony Alleyne top scored with 84 not out.

Hackney said they didn’t get enough out of their batting across the whole game.

“Unfortunately, we didn’t get the runs we wanted out of our bats in this game felt our bowlers toiled pretty hard and worked their butts off,” he said.

“It just didn’t go away for about his unfortunately and it’s a shame because they’ve performed so well over the course of the season and they deserve to be able to show their skills off a little bit.”

“Their batting depth got us in the end. To

have them 6-100 in the second dig and for their eight, nine and 10 come in and put on another 100-150 runs.

“That was the difference in the game.”

The Lions were bowled out for 265 in their second innings. Stefon King and Adrian Neill took three wickets each.

It left the Lions needing 334 for victory. The Storm attacked from the start and with wickets fell and the side slipped to 9-75.

Number11TimGrech(17notout)andNeill (30) fought hard and add some respectability to the total with the last partnership.

The Storm was eventually bowled out for 121.

Hackney said they would look at what Deer Park did the past 12 months to see how they can take the next step.

“We’ve just got to take the learnings from it and apply them as we I think we have done pretty consistently over the last six or seven years,” he said

Tara Murray

Lions crowned champs

By Tara Murray

The rise of Deer Park in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association is complete.

Having risen up the ranks to the senior division, the Lions went agonisingly close to pulling off an upset 12 months ago.

The Lions recruited well in the off season and went again this season, better prepared and hungrier to go even further.

They would be the best team all season and showed exactly that in the grand final, beating Sydenham-Hillside the last two weekends.

Lions coach Mick Andriadis said he was absolutely rapt for the boys and everyone involved.

‘It’s been a great season really,” he said. “We were undefeated for a long time and then lost a couple games towards the end.

“Then our semi final and obviously into this weekend and last weekend, the four day granny. The boys were brilliantly led by Dean Russ and I can’t be more proud of the group and everyone involved at Deer Park.”

Andriadis said last season they were lucky to make finals and then the grand final, where

this season was a little bit different.

The Lions had one hand of the trophy after the first weekend of play.

It resumed at 8-141 still well behind the Lions first innings of 225. It wasn’t enough for Andriadis to not have some nerves during the week.

It didn’t take long for the Storm’s innings to be over, bowled out for 157, and giving the Lions a first innings lead.

The Lions went back out to bat and at 6-100 it was game on.

Angelo Emmanuel stuck with and was 93 not out overnight and he managed to get his century and he helped guide the Lions to 265, giving them a lead of 333.

Emmanuel finished with 136 which would later earn him man of the match honours.

Andriadis said it was great for Emmanuel to finish the game with a century.

“It would have had a tough night sleep thinking about his hundred and the match is still in the balance,” he said.

“If we had lost a few quick wickets, they would have had you know seventy overs to try to chase 250-odd, but we didn’t get them

Calder opens its account

CalderUnitedopeneditsaccountunder new coach Kogulan Sabaratnam in the National Premier League Women’s competition on Saturday.

After a first up loss, it was a slow start for the new looking Calder side against the Essendon Royals in perfect conditions at Keilor Park Recreation Reserve.

The Royals took the lead just before half time after taking the ball from end to end after a Calder corner.

Calder used the break to regroup and it took just minutes before the side levelled the scores through Akane Shimizu at 1-1.

Ten minutes later Calder took the lead for the first time through Larissa Walsh before an own goal in the 63rd minute doubled the lead.

The Royals got one back not long after to keep the game alive.

Calder snuffed out the Royals chances in the 74th minute through substitute Jennifer Lum to increase the lead to 4-2.

That would be the final margin.

any more chances and we set them obviously a tough target with not many overs remaining.”

With nothing to lose, the Storm hit out to try and get the runs.

They were bowled out for 121.

Fawad Malook took 4-24 for the Lions.

Andriadis said that the Storm were a tough side and they’ll be better and stronger next year and will be hungrier again next season.

“Now we’ve got a taste for one, we might be hungrier as well,” he said.

While there’s been a number of recruits for the club, Andriadis and skipper Dean Russ both paid tribute to Ricky Suvada who has been through the tough and the good times with the club.

“He’s just great for a person that’s played all their life at one club,” he said. “He’s probably taking a hundred calls from other clubs throughout his time

To go to another club and he’s just stayed with Deer Park I’m rapt for him and I’m sure me, Ricky and a few of the boys tonight, we’re gonna have an absolute belter and I’m looking forward to it.

Calder this week hosts Brunswick Juventus on Saturday afternoon in round three.

Meanwhile, the FV league men’s state league season got underway on the weekend.

In state league 1 north-west, Brimbank Stallions started their season with a 2-1 win against Strathmore, while Sydenham Park started with a 2-0 win against Clifton with Dylan Murnane & Evan Christodoulou scoring for the Reds.

Western Suburbs, who were promoted in the off season, started with a 3-3 draw against Whittlesea United, while Westgate started its season with a 2-1 win against Geelong.

In state league 2 north-west Westvale Olympic beat Albion Rovers, 4-3.

Keilor Park beat Lalor United 1-0 to start life in state league 2 after being relegated in the off season.

Adrian Neill (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Deer Park premiership side (Supplied)

THURsDAy

FRIDAy

sATURDAy

Essendon

Port Adelaide V Melbourne (AO)

sUNDAy MARCH 31

Western Bulldogs V West Coast (MRVL) Richmond V Sydney (MCG)

MONDAy APRIL 1

Hawthorn v Geelong (MCG)

Tom Pilcher

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