Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 23rd April 2024

Walking for a cause

Truck faults create ‘risk’

By Oliver Lees

Melton Fire Station’s heavy pumper fire truck has been taken offline due to recurring faults, leaving the community “at risk” in the event of an emergency.

Heavy pumper trucks are used across the state as the frontline appliance in firefighting efforts.

As well as being needed at structure fires, heavy pumpers also carry specialist equipment for medical emergencies and road crash support.

Melton first reported a fault with its heavy pumper in November, 2021, and has recorded

a further three issues this year in January, February and March.

If the truck was to fail while out on a fire call, as occurred on February 14, the nearest station available to provide support is in Caroline Springs.

United Firefighters Union deputy shop steward for Melton, Tom Upton, said the issue was creating a dangerous situation.

“If the appliance was to break down and there was no replacements available, it would leave the community and firefighters at risk,” he said.

“Recently at a house fire in Truganina, a truck broke down on scene and was unable

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to provide water coverage. Firefighters had to perform a search and rescue without water coverage, essentially putting their safety and wellbeing at risk.

“Residents in our community deserve a world-class fire rescue service, they pay for it through their fire service levy.”

The financing and repairs of this equipment is the responsibility of Fire Rescue Victoria and the state government.

According to FRV policy, trucks should be replaced after 15 years of service. Melton’s heavy pumper has been in operation for 14 years.

A FRV spokesperson said the truck was

currently being repaired and would return to the station shortly.

“Faults previously reported on this vehicle have been rectified and are unrelated to the current maintenance,” the spokesperson said.

“While repairs are completed, a substitute vehicle has been provided to ensure no shortfall in service or safety to the community.

“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.”

Melton personal trainer Sarah Lock is walking the Kokoda Track later this year to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association of Victoria. While that will be a journey in itself, Ms Lock is wanting to get the community involved in the fundraising by hosting the Melton Big Freeze in August.

Sarah Lock is hosting a fundraiser for MND.

Melton Station infested by ants

By Oliver Lees

Calls to protect the historic Melton Station building have hit a snag, with the state government confirming the infrastructure is riddled with white ants, which have compromised its structural integrity.

As reported by Star Weekly , the state governmentintendstoremovetheKaniva-style building on Brooklyn Road to make way for a new station which will have greater capacity to meet Melton’s rapidly growing population.

At a community meeting hosted by the

state government earlier this month, it was indicated that white ants, or termites, had been found throughout the station building making any efforts to retain or relocate it especially difficult.

Melton MP Steve McGhie said he was aware of the issue.

“I am of the understanding that the building has an infestation of white ants,” he said.

“Of course this complicates the retention of the current facility.”

The current station building was relocated to Melton in 1898 and despite having a local

council heritage overlay, it is not protected under the Victorian Heritage Register, meaning it can be torn down.

A previous council heritage report described the building as a “rare” and “significant” structure that represents the origin of the town of Melton South.

Melton District Historical Society president Deb Slattery said it would be a shame to see the building lost, but understood there were extenuating factors complicated the issue.

“I’m all for keeping it, if we can,” she said.

“We do let things go in Melton, there are

Football history comes home

A piece of history has landed at Melton RSL after the family of an ex-service member found a football trophy given to his father during his service in Vietnam.

CliffEvanswasstationedatVungTauduring the Vietnam War, where he served as a flight sergeant in the Australian armed forces.

EarlyinhisserviceMrEvansmadeamistake while on duty and was told he could receive a regulationpunishmentforhismisdeed,orstart a football competition for he and his fellow soldiers to enjoy. He chose the latter.

In 1967, Mr Evans helped to create the Vietnam Football League, which persists to this day, only instead of service members the league is now open to expats and Vietnamese alike.

ThatsameyearMrEvans,nowdeceased,was awarded a trophy for his participation in the first premiership.

Thisyear,thattrophywasfoundbyMrEvan’s children, Matt and Tonya, who were cleaning out the home of their mother, Heather, who recently died.

Melton RSL president Stephen Cook said he

More security at Woodgrove

Extra security will be on patrol at Woodgrove Shopping Centre following an incident last week which resulted in two teenagers being arrested.

One child has been charged and a second one will be charged after they were allegedly involved in a violent incident at a shopping centre in Melton on April 15.

Police responded to the incident at the centre on Barries Road about 5pm, following reports of a group of males fighting, armed with edged weapons.

A 15-year-old Weir Views boy was found with head injuries and taken to hospital.

certain buildings that were supposed to be retained that haven’t.

“But who’s going to pay for the removal?

Whowillpayforthereinstallation?Wherewill it go?”

In the past Melton council has facilitated a heritage committee in consultation with the historical society, however that committee has not been renewed by council since it lapsed late last year.

Ms Slattery said this has made it difficult for her volunteers to be engaged in issues such as the station redevelopment project.

Women’s network

event returns

Moorabool council’s acclaimed networking event for women in business is set to return with renewed vigour and empowerment strategies for the local small business community.

The event will focus on empowering women entrepreneurs through targeted networkingopportunitiesandinteractive breakout sessions centred on digital marketing and personal branding.

Building on the success of previous years, attendees can expect to delve into real-life business solutions and advice, learn the art of leveraging social media for business benefit and engage in facilitating more local business connections.

The breakout sessions will be tailored to marketing strategies for all types of women business owners, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience for all.

Moorabool mayor Ally Munari said the council is excited to host this event once again, fostering empowerment and creating a nurturing space for the small business community to develop and grow.

was humbled by the family’s decision to hand possession of the trophy over to the RSL.

“It’s lovely, it’s going to take pride of place,” he said. “The Evans family moved to Melton 52 years ago and both Cliff and Heather were heavily involved in ex-service organisations.

“She sold badges, went to all of the events. She was the most amazing woman and so family-oriented.

“For her family to give us this trophy, it’s such a blessing.”

Oliver Lees

The highlight of the event will be the keynote address by Nina Christian, founder and proprietor of Agency Bravada, which was honoured as the best marketing agency at the prestigious Australian Marketing Excellence Awards.

The event will be held on May 30, from 9am–3pm, at the Ballan Mechanics Institute, with morning tea and a light lunch will be provided.

Details: www.moorabool.vic.gov.

au/Events/Women-in-BusinessNetworking-Event

Centre manager Kylie Robertson said the centre’s security personnel rapidly responded to the incident with support from police.

“We are grateful no customers, retailers or security were harmed and we continue to assist authorities with their investigation,” she said. “The safety and wellbeing of our entire Woodgrove community is always our overriding concern and something we take very seriously. Our centre is patrolled by our dedicated security team 24-hours-a-day seven days a week, with support from an extensive CCTV network.”

Ms Robertson said there were additional security staff onsite who are working with Melton police.

Police arrested two boys, a 15-year-old from Melton South and 16-year-old from Harkness. The 16-year-old has been charged with affray, possessing a prohibited weapon and being armed with criminal intent, while the 15-year-old was set to be charged with affray, possessing a controlled weapon and being armed with criminal intent.

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Matt Evans and Melton RSL president Stephen Cook, with the football trophy awarded to Matt’s father, Cliff, during his service in Vietnam. The trophy has now been donated to the RSL. (Damjan Janevski) 401781_01

Green wedge plan ‘doesn’t cut it’

By Zoe Moffatt

The state government has been criticised for its plan to protect Melbourne’s green wedge areas, with an expert saying it fails to respond to the major threats.

On March 18, the state government unveiled its green wedge and agricultural land action plan, which it said outlines a focus on preserving green wedges and agricultural land on Melbourne’s outskirts.

Greenwedgesaredefinedasnon-urbanareas of metropolitan Melbourne that lie outside the urban growth boundary. There are 12 green wedgeareasacross17municipalities,including Hume, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Melton, Whittlesea and Wyndham, which form a ring around the city.

Retired environment and planning professor

Michael Buxton said the plan completely fails to protect the green wedges from the threats that face it.

“The [plan] fails to deliver on its acceptance of the need for stronger planning controls to protect the rural land uses of green wedges,” he said.

“This means that the [plan] fails to do what it promised – prevent the further loss of the values of green wedges to incompatible development.”

Mr Buxton said the plan is full of general statements that don’t constitute commitment.

“They don’t clearly state in any measurable way what actions they’re going to take, instead they water down [the] commitments but using vagueterms…suchas‘encourage’,‘strengthen’, ‘better direct’.

“These are undefined, subject to

interpretation and unable to be measured or their effectiveness assessed. After six years of investigation, an action plan which defers action to future undefined measures is hardly adequate.”

Inthefirstactionoftheplan,thegovernment said it will prepare and apply a new planning scheme overlay to protect the Werribee and Bacchus Marsh irrigation districts.

The government said they are the two most significant recycled water precincts in Melbourne’s peri-urban area, which together constitute approximately 3000 hectares of land in Melbourne’s west.

Mr Buxton said while the government does say it is going to bring in a new planning overlay, it doesn’t explain what the overlay is going to do.

“They’re very careful not to state that the

Enjoy a cuppa for cancer research

The kettle will be warm and the cakes ready for the Eynesbury Biggest Morning Tea. Running for the sixth year, the morning tea raisesfundsfortheCancerCouncilwhichwill go towards vital cancer research, prevention programs and advocacy.

One of the organisers, Anne Warren, said the tea was a true community event.

“There’s six of us ladies who organise it each year,” she said.

“Last year we had about 70 people and it was a really big event with morning tea

into lunch.”

The group raised more than $12,000 last year, the biggest amount they’ve raised.

This year the group is focusing on just morning tea instead of the bigger event like it held last year.

There will be raffles and games to raise money, along with plenty of cuppas, food, smiles and laughs.

Ms Warren said the group was aiming to raise $6000 this year, but with money tight for many people at the moment it didn’y know

what to expect.

Entry to the morning is $25, which includes entry and a ticket into the door prize.

Guests are encouraged to bring along gold coins to be involved with the raffles and the games.

The Eynesbury Biggest Morning tea will be held on May 1 at the Eynesbury Discovery Centre from 11am.

Entry is via ticket only. Tickets: https:// www.facebook.com/EYBMT/ or DM Anne Warren on Facebook.

overlay will be tough,” he said. “It avoids mandatorymeasuresexceptforthepreparation of one overlay, two prohibitions and one other mandatory measure.

“The government’s job is to protect the green wedges. This is a critical time for its future, if something isn’t done they will certainly be lost. It won’t take long.”

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said department experts developed the plan in consultation with councils, the agriculture sector, and the Green Wedge Coalition.

“We’ve already enshrined protections into the planning and environment act and set up agriculture Victoria’s planning and advisory service and we’re now working with councils and authorities to deliver several more actions this year,” the spokesperson said.

Study seeks answers on wellbeing

A joint research project conducted by two Victorian universities is seeking participation in Moorabool to better understand how key local issues affect wellbeing.

The survey, which is open to any residents of the Moorabool shire above the age of 18, will be conducted by researchers at Deakin University and Melbourne University.

Specifically, the project’s researchers are interested in hearing community attitudes towards the current proposed high-voltage transmission towers in Moorabool Shire and the former proposal to dispose of West Gate Tunnel soil at Bacchus Marsh.

DrAnnaKlasfromDeakinUniversity said more detail on the purpose of the research would be released once the project was complete.

“Research on community responses to these types of issues is important for informing better planning of large-scale projects, taking into account community wellbeing and environmental protection,” she said.

“The funding received for this research project is for a focus on the Moorabool shire area. However, results of the research project will also be relevant to planning-related and environment-related issues in other areas, so may help inform future research and policy in other locations as well.”

To contribute, visit: tinyurl.com/ local-issues-survey

Nowhere to hide for family violence offenders warn police

Victoria Police is warning the state’s most dangerous family violence perpetrators there’s nowhere to hide – as a crackdown leads to a record number of offenders being arrested and brought before the courts each day.

Victoria Police said frontline police and specialised teams – including family violence investigation units and the family violence command taskforce – are proactively targeting andapprehendingoffendersforfamilyviolence crimestoensurethesafetyofvictim-survivors.

Crime Statistics Agency figures show 29,233 family violence offenders were either arrested or summonsed to court last year. It equates to an average of 80 arrests or summons to court each day.

The figures are up slightly on the prior year

when an average 79 arrests or summons were made each day.

That’s one person arrested or brought before the courts for family violence offending every 18 minutes.

The vast majority of offenders were arrested for serious family violence crimes, as well as actively avoiding police detection, outstanding warrants or unserved family violence intervention orders (IVO), stalking and making threats, according to police.

Family violence command assistant commissioner Lauren Callaway said these figures highlight Victoria Police’s continual efforts in tracking down family violence offenders, some of the worst in the state.

“Family violence is completely unacceptable

and there is never an excuse or justification for the crime,” she said.

“We have thousands of police officers across Victoria working tirelessly to apprehend family violence perpetrators and bring them before the courts to ensure the safety of victim-survivors.

“We need family violence perpetrators to stop and really think of the damage they are doing to their partners and children.

“Some go to great lengths to avoid apprehension – including blackmailing victim-survivors or using friends to keep them in hiding – but they’re always in the sights of police.

“Ourmessagetofamilyviolenceperpetrators is clear: closed doors will not protect you from

being tracked down and held to account.”

If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s behaviour support services are available. No to Violence runs a Men’s Referral Service which helps men who use violence to change their behaviour and can be contacted on 1300 766 491.

If you or someone close to you discloses they are a victim of family violence, please believe them and encourage them to contact police or a support service.

Support is available 24-hours-a-day through Safe Steps by calling 1800 015 188 or emailing safesteps@safesteps.org.au

In an emergency call triple-0. If you can’t get to a phone, ask someone else to do it for you.

Margaret Scholten, Anita Smith, Anne Warren, Julie Dixon and Bev Christie are among the organisers of the Eynesbury Biggest Morning Tea. (Damjan Janevski) 401195_01

Taking the MND plunge

By Tara Murray

When Sarah Lock decided to walk the Kokoda Track to raise money to help those with Motor NeuroneDisease(MND), shedecidedthatshe wanted to get the local community involved too.

Ms Lock has paid to walk the track but is required to do fundraising on top of that, with the funds going to the Motor Neurone Disease Association of Victoria.

The association provides support in homes for people who have MND.

As part of her fundraising, Ms Lock is holdingtheMeltonBigFreezeeventinAugust.

Freeze MND and ice bucket challenges have been synonymous with raising money for MND research and which Ms Lock will bring to Melton.

“I’m doing it for a good cause,” she said. “I’ve always loved to do the Kokoda Track and I couldn’t not do it for a good cause.

“I’ve raised money for different charities and this is one that I want to help.”

Ms Lock personally doesn’t know anyone affected by MND.

She said as a personal trainer, her role is to help people improve the way the body moves, which MND prevents.

“I have the ability to move my body, so I want to help those who can’t.”

Ms Lock reached out to Melton council, which approved her plans for the fundraiser, at the at Melton Amphitheatre on High Street.

She said the event won’t be anything extravagant but was hoping other local small businesses would get on board and help her raise funds.

“I’m looking to have an ice bath or something like that and see who can stay in it the longest,” she said.

“You will have to pay to participate.

Hopefully it will be a bit of fun.

“I think it’s important for our community to work together.”

Ms Lock is looking for sponsors to come on board the event, as well as participants and someone to help with a major prize donation

for those who take part in the challenge.

The event will be held on August 3.

Details: 9743 0917 or meltonpt.vic@gmail. com.

Short story comp coming

Aspiring writers and storytellers are being encouraged to enter the Melton libraries’ short story competition

Now in its 19th year, the annual competition is a great opportunity for creatives of all ages to showcase their talents and have their work reviewed by popular authors.

And it’s not just for writers. Short stories can be presented via text, illustration, video, verse, voice, or a combination of any of the above.

Written entries should be no more than 3000 words for adults, or 1500 words for children and teenagers.

For other formats, creators should aim for something no longer than five minutes.

Prizes are awarded across junior, young adult and adult categories.

Children’s author Adrian Beck, young adult novelist Lili Wilkinson, and radio broadcaster and writer Jacinta Parsons will be on the judging panel this year.

Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the competition is the perfect opportunity for our community to tell a story, and have it read by professional authors and experts in the field.

“It’s a chance to unlock your imagination and let creativity soar. I’m invitingaspiringwritersandstorytellers of all ages to share their unique tales and talents and get involved in this year’s competition.”

The competition opens May 6 and closes July 12.

Details: www.melton.vic.gov.au/ MCLShortStory

Sarah Lock is hosting a fundraiser for MND. (Damjan Janevski). 402124_02

‘Selfless’ volunteers recognised

Emergency services volunteers have been recognised for their efforts to rescue school children from a bus accident in Exford near Eynesbury last May and their “brave and selfless” response to another crash Pentland Hills in September, 2022..

On May 16, 2023, a truck collided with a school bus carrying 46 children at Exford.

A large-scale multi-agency rescue taking several hours was undertaken, with several children suffering life-altering injuries in the incident.

To recognise the exceptional leadership, professionalism and dedication of crews involved, members from Country Fire Authority (CFA), Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and Victorian State Emergency Service (VICSES) received awards at a ceremony on Saturday, April 20, 2024.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said he was honoured to present CFA members with theCFAUnitCitationforServiceandtheChief Officer’s Commendation for their incredible efforts that day.

“I’m proud of all our members and our partner emergency services for their exceptional work on an extremely traumatic incident,” he said.

“Ourcrewsfacedthefearofrespondingtoan incidentwheretheyknewsomeofthecasualties which is always incredibly challenging, but crews set their minds to the task at hand and as a result saved many young lives.”

FRV commissioner Gavin Freeman said this was a tragic event, and it was fitting to thank the first responders at FRV, CFA and VICSES and recognise their dedication and service during extremely difficult circumstances.

“Thecrashsitewasaparticularlyconfronting scene,especiallyforthepublic,whowerefirstto assist our emergency responders. Interagency cooperation saw us ‘work as one’, with our

joint effort instilling confidence in our first responders,” he said.

“I’m proud to recognise and thank the FRV firefighters involved through the awarding of a Commissioner’sCommendationandFRVUnit Citation for Service. Our firefighters, along

with CFA and VICSES, worked for many hours to free those who were trapped and offered comfort during this tragedy.”

VICSES chief officer Tim Wiebusch said this award is a welcome recognition of these volunteers’ selflessness and congratulated each

and every one of them.

“These incidents presented unique physical, mental and emotional challenges for our VICSES volunteers, which were only exacerbated by having children involved.”

Bacchus Marsh SES volunteers received a groupcommendationofserviceawardonApril 18, for their response to a collision between a B-double truck and bus on September 21, 2022, which caused the bus to flip and careen down an embankment.

Twenty-seven children and four adults required assistance from emergency services, who were required to lug rescue equipment across difficult terrain and co-ordinate with other rescue providers.

Nobody died in the crash, but two children were airlifted to a nearby hospital while others were treated by paramedics at the scene.

“Ourprofessionalvolunteersshowcasedtheir specialist rescue skills and lived out VICSES’ value commitment to its community in such a complex rescue involving mass casualties, working efficiently and collaboratively with our partner agencies to successfully rescue multiple victims in life-threatening scenarios, whilst assisting multiple walking wounded as well,” Mr Wiebusch said.

SES Bacchus Marsh unit controller Mick Schembri said his crew members always work to provide the best service for the community.

“VICSES volunteers don’t turn out to these incidents in the hope of receiving an award for their response – we turn out to ensure the safety of our community and, along with the otheremergencyserviceprovidersonscene,we were able to do so on this occasion,” he said.

“Our volunteers are resourceful, brave and selfless, and they have provided an important service to their community each day since this event.”

Scout and about in Canberra

Scouts from across Australia were welcomed to Canberra last week, where they were invited to camp on the vista lawn at the home of the Governor-General David Hurley.

More than 1400 scouts, ranging from five to 25-years-old, spent the week based on the lush government property with excursions to explore the natural surroundings and practice their practical skills.

Among them was Ella White from the 3rd Melton Scout Group.

Ella said it was exciting to be able to meet scouts from the broader scout network and participate in the custom of swapping badges with other explorers from different states.

“My favourite part was definitely the cooking,” she said.

“Making French toast on a campfire was a blast!”

Scouting is a family affair for Ella, whose

mother was also a scout locally in her younger years.

According to data collected by Resilient Youth Australia in partnership with Scouts Australia, the focus on outdoor education delivered through the scouting experience provides significant wellbeing benefits to young people.

The study found scouts indicated a healthier mental state than non-scouting peers of the same age.

Speaking before the scouts arrival, governor general Hurley said he was pleased to welcome the large cohort.

“I am delighted that the grounds of Government House will be the backdrop for so many scouts from across Australia to come together,immersethemselvesinteam-building activities and forge lifelong friendships,” he said.

The scene of a bus crash at the intersection of Exford Road and Murphys Road at Eynesbury. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)

Ella White enjoying her trip to Canberra. (Scouts Victoria)

Almost ready to serve

In preparation for the opening of Victoria State Emergency Service’s (VICSES) newest unit in Aintree, volunteers have passed a major milestone.

A blend of both seasoned and fresh recruits have completed their initial training at the VICSES Melton unit. This milestone marks a crucial step in ensuring the readiness of emergency responders for the community in Melbourne’s west.

Scheduledtocommenceoperationslaterthis year, the Aintree unit will play a pivotal role in delivering essential emergency aid.

Most recently volunteers focused on familiarising themselves with the unit’s Medium Rescue Truck (MRT), with plans for supervised crew member training and more advanced exercises to follow shortly.

With construction of the unit’s state-of-the-art facility nearing completion, 25 dedicated volunteers have already committed

to serving in the unit which will service the growth corridor bridging Melton and Melbourne’s western suburbs, including Caroline Springs.

Among the eager volunteers are local residents Tanya Inkret and her husband, Alex Setterfield, driven by a shared passion for community service. Tanya said she and Alex were proud to be part of the new unit.

“Being part of VICSES’ new Aintree unit is a fantastic opportunity to give back to a community I now call home,” she said.

“Nothing has been too hard for our trainers and support staff, and it has created an inviting and accommodating atmosphere which I’m proud to be a part of.”

The Aintree unit is poised to accommodate up to 70 volunteers, with its new facility boasting six vehicle bays and its own large training space.

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

The Victorian Government is making it easier for families to find a three and four-year old kinder learning program they can count on.

LED BY A QUALIFIED TEACHER

The Kinder Tick recognises kinder programs that are led by a qualified teacher.

PLAY-BASED LEARNING PROGRAM

It highlights kindergartens and long day care centres that offer play-based programs to help children learn and grow, before they start school.

Briefs

Evading police

Police arrested a man after a vehicle was allegedly driving erratically and evading police in Melton on Monday. Police sighted the car leaving a convenience store on Coburns Road towards High Street in Melton about 3.50am on April 22. The car was allegedly observed travelling at more than 150km/hr in 60km zone. The Holden then entered the Western Freeway, where it was allegedly observed travelling at more than 180km/hr in 100km zone. It then drove onto the opposite side the freeway, travelling along the wrong side of the road. The vehicle was located in Wentworth Road about 4.15am, where the driver was arrested and taken into custody. A 27-year-old Melton South man is currently assisting police with their inquiries.

Customer experience survey

Melton council has engaged Customer Service Benchmarking Australia (CSBA) to survey community members who have made a recent inquiry or service request. The survey provides an opportunity for customers who have recently contacted council to provide feedback that will assist council in understanding where it has done well, and where it can improve. Participation is optional and responses will be anonymous.

Details: 9747 7200. FOR

FUNDED AND APPROVED BY THE VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT

It also identifies services that are approved for Victorian Government funding.

Providing hope for those in need

More than 900 young people and their children have been helped by Hope Street’s First Response Youth Service in Melton. The service first opened in 2018 and provides emergency emergency refuge accommodation and outreach services, with construction of a second site in Whittlesea under way.

Of the young parents who have so far engaged with Hope Street services, more than 90 per cent had improved access to safety for their children, according to the service.

“HopeStreethelpedmetonavigatethrough different decisions I had to make. They helped me with baby things, food vouchers

‘‘ With an estimated 28,200 young people aged 12–24 years experiencing homelessness on any one night, this is a national crisis ’’ - Donna Bennet

and moral support,” said Anna (not her real name), a young mum who received support in Melton.

Hope Street found young people whom

engagedwithitsserviceswere94percentmore likely to have a connection to community services, 77 per cent had improved mental health, 70 per cent had improved physical health, and 63 per cent of young people exited into safe and secure housing, up from 30 per cent before help from Hope Street.

Speaking in the lead up to Youth Homelessness Matters Day on April 17, Hope Street chief executive Donna Bennet said the success of the program was behind the decision to expand it to Whittlesea.

“Hope Street is excited to continue this important first response youth service and be a part of the Melton community in a way

Filmmaker’s mental health tribute

When Caroline Springs filmmaker Giovanna Hammond lost her director of photography to suicide during the COVID-19 pandemic, she swore she would never make another film again.

Hammond and her director of photography hadabondforgedthroughyearsoffilmmaking dedicated to mental health awareness. However, the sudden loss shattered her resolve, leading her to swear off filmmaking altogether.

Yet, a vivid dream reignited her passion, prompting her to honour her colleague’s last wish: to continue advocating for mental health through film. Thus, ‘Mask of Darkness’

was born, a film exploring the masks people wear amidst mental health struggles.

The project became Hammond’s tribute to her late friend, through tears and memories, she poured her heart into the film.

“I felt empowered to get this message out there so that his death doesn’t go in vain. This film is suicide awareness in itself,” she said.

“The main message of this movie is for people to really check in with people. If you have a gut feeling that someone is not ok then just ask, and really notice. Really deeply check in with people… sometimes people say they’re ok but they’re not,” she said.

that supports young people to achieve their potential,” she said.

“Statistically however, with an estimated 28,200 young people aged 12–24 years experiencing homelessness on any one night, this is a national crisis.

“The federal government needs to protect funding through legislation for diverse youth homelessness support, accommodation and housing models, including guaranteed social and public housing for young people.

“Given this national emergency impacting the most vulnerable citizens, governments with wider community support need to be bold and significantly.”

Wreath bound for Gallipoli for Anzac Day

A wreath made by the Caroline Springs RSL Sub-branch will be laid at Gallipoli on Anzac Day by Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch.

Ms Grigorovitch is part of a Victorian delegation heading to Gallipoli, Türkiye, to mark this year’s Anzac Day celebrations and to attend the official dawn service.

Ms Grigorovitch said she was delighted and honoured to receive the invitation.

“I have accepted on behalf of my constituency to remember those who had served and those who died to defend Australia,” she said.

“This is clearly a wonderful opportunity to represent both the community of Kororoit and the local Caroline Springs RSL Sub-branch at the Gallipoli service.

The Caroline Springs RSL Sub-branch has provided her with a wreath, sewn by member Lorraine Gladman to lay at the dawn service.

Ms Grigorovitch plans to visit the graves of those from our area who lost their lives in battle.

‘Mask of Darkness’ carries a powerful message about the importance of genuine connections and community support in combating mental illness.

Hammond emphasises the need for individuals to check in with loved ones and recognise the signs of hidden struggles.

Hammond proudly notes her daughter’s involvement, who wrote and performed the film’s theme song, stepping out of her comfort zone to contribute to the cause.

As the film prepares to make its rounds in international film festivals, Hammond invites viewers to subscribe to her YouTube channel Locked In Productions, where ‘Mask of Darkness’ will be shared after its festival run.

Her itinerary also includes a wreath-laying ceremony at the Mausoleum of Ataturk with the signing of the book of honour, visiting the Lone Pine Memorial as it’s such a sacred and important site to those who served and the memories of the many that fell as well as a meeting with the Türkiye president.

Australia’s longest-running and most popular all-historic motorsport event, Historic Winton, will be held on 25th and 26th May 2024 at Winton Motor Raceway, near Benalla.

Spectators will see more than 40 historic car, motorcycle and sidecar races and the traditional Sunday Parade Lap of selected display vehicles.

Organised by the Austin 7 Club, the 47th Historic Winton invites spectators to bring their historic cars, bikes, trucks, buses, caravans and other vehicles for a massive car park display.

Caroline Springs resident Giovanna Hammond is an independent filmmaker and critical incident and trauma counsellor. (Damjan Janevski) 399277_01

Book helps foster inner strength

By Gerald Lynch

A book dealing with impact of family violence on children will be available at the Orange Door services across Melbourne’s north-west.

The Orange Door is a support service available to adults, children and young people who are at risk of experiencing or have experienced family violence, and for families who need support with the development and wellbeing needs of children.

Originally from Mildura, 20-year-old author Connor Pall has relocated to Melbourne, and has published his first children’s book ‘The Shadow That Follows’, which will now be made available for free at all Orange Door centres, after officially launching at the Broadmeadows centre last week.

The book deals with complex topics, as it follows the journey of a young boy who finds inner strength to battle difficult situations that no child should ever have to face.

Writing a book that discusses topics of such sensitive material in a way that children can understand seems like a tough task, but for Mr Pall it was simple.

He wanted to create the resource he wished he had through his own history of dealing with family violence as a child.

“Withmylivedexperienceasamalesurvivor of family violence, growing up in an unsafe home … I never had the language to express what I was experiencing,” he said.

“I wish I had something like this book when IwasgrowingupsoIcouldgetthesupportthat all kids and all people deserve.

“I have created the book from my own experience, to make sure kids know they have a right to safety and freedom in their own homes.”

point kids in the right direction.”

“If a kid has read this book at school or at a library … Speaking to a safe adult about their experience is always a good place to start,” he said.

“These adults will be able to help out and

As someone who was provided support by the Orange Door himself, Mr Pall said he hopes his book can lead children to speaking out and finding the help they deserve.

Spuds take centre stage

Trentham is gearing up for the 16th Great Trentham

The festival celebrates the potato heritage and community spirit in the region. Festival co-ordinator Kye Theobald said this year’sSpudfestpromisestobebiggerandbetter than ever before.

“This year we are running across two days and are delighted to say that Spudfest is still a freeeventthankstothesupportofoursponsors and partners,” she said.

“We are also introducing some specially curated events that will require a ticket.

“Celebrating our great potato region across two days is a great opportunity for visitors to stay and plan a full weekend of discovery with friends and family.”

DayoneofSpudfestwilltransformTrentham into a carnival scene, with activities spread across four main precincts and finish with Spudfest Cèilidh at The Factory on Market Street, an evening of Celtic music, food and dancing.

A bus tour led by the Trentham Historical Society will offer insights into the heritage-protected Spud Huts in the area.

Day two includes farms in the region being open for tours.

Visitors can explore local produce on the self-guided Farm Gate Trail, participate in The Great Spud Scavenger Hunt, join a Historical Society Tour, or discover the secrets of the Red Beard Historical Bakery’s 133-year-old Scotch oven and potato bread.

Farmer Luke Wicker will sell his range of potatoes at the festival, with Wicker potatoes having been grown in the area for more than 100 years.

“Spudfestisoneofthebiggestdaysoftheyear around town. So you really have to come along and try our spuds and celebrate our history.”

The festival will take place on May 4 and 5.

Details: https://www.trenthamspudfest.org. au.

Anne Parisianne

Prevention of Family Violence Minister Vicki Ward said that although she understands it can be very difficult for families in vulnerable situations to reach out for help, she wanted to assure them that there are services available.

“The police should always be a point of call

for families who are feeling unsafe, but you can utilise the Orange Door without involving police,” she said.

“Every door is open, walk in, there are a number of people here who can wrap around, triage the support that you need and find services that will help in the longer term.”

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part Time sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

Visitors at the Great Trentham Spudfest. (Supplied)

Spudfest.

Author Connor Pall with Prevention of Family Violence Minister Vicki Ward and Broadmeadows MP Kathleen Matthews-Ward. (Gerald Lynch)

Mayor’s message

STAY INFORMED

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

Lake Caroline draft strategy

Have your say on the future of one of our City’s most popular open spaces.

The Lake Caroline Draft Masterplan and Activation Strategy will guide how we develop and activate the reserve and its surrounds.

A community drop-in session will take place on Saturday 4 May from 10am-12pm at the Caroline Springs Library and Learning Hub, 193 Caroline Springs Blvd, Caroline Springs. You can respond to the draft strategy until Monday 6 May 2024.

Find out more: conversations. melton.vic.gov.au/ lakecarolinemasterplan

Guiding Melton Weir’s future

Residents can tell us what they think on a strategy aimed at improving parkland around the Melton Weir.

The Draft Melton Weir Parkland Strategy lays out a plan to link open space, explore recreational opportunities and make the most of the scenic setting.

Give your feedback via an online survey by visiting conversations. melton.vic.gov.au/ meltonweirparklands

Survey closes Monday 6 May 2024.

Coburn Ward with Cr Bob Turner

With Anzac Day falling this week, Australians in towns, suburbs and cities around the nation will pay tribute to our brave servicemen and women, past and present, and honour their sacrifices.

It is a day when we remember those who gave their lives so we could live freely and peacefully. The Anzac spirit – courage, endurance, mateship and sacrifice – that was forged in the fire of Gallipoli in 1915 lives on today and shall never be forgotten.

Lest we forget.

There are many dedicated and passionate people in our community who make an enormous difference to the lives of others. Council wants to recognise and celebrate them with our annual Community Achievement Awards, but we need your help.

This is your chance to nominate someone you believe has made our community an even better place to live. Nominations close at 5pm, Sunday 5 May 2024. Visit melton.vic.gov.au/ CommunityAchievementAwards for details.

Finally, congratulations to the men who will next month complete the free Sons

Community grants

Our new and improved community grants program is now open.

The program supports local applications that celebrate diversity, civic leadership and pride, encourage social connection and community participation.

Non-profit groups based in the City of Melton can apply for grants up to $5000 across five categories including environment and nature, festivals and events, sports and hobbies, healthy and safe living, and the arts. Applications can be submitted at any time.

For more information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/ communitygrants

of the West health program. Developed by the Western Bulldogs, this is a vitally important program that gives men access to practical support and advice for living a healthier lifestyle. Well done for taking control and deciding that your health and wellbeing were worth fighting for.

I am available to meet residents most Saturday mornings from 9am, by appointment. Please contact Barb McKenzie on 9747 7200 to book a time, or contact me directly on 0412 584 224 or via email at bob.turner@melton.vic.gov.au

Cr Kathy Majdlik

As Australia’s fastest growing municipality, investment in our public services and infrastructure is more important than ever before.

By 2051, more than 440,142 people will call the City of Melton home. Because we’re experiencing such rapid growth, our City needs further investment in public transport and road infrastructure, local jobs and health services to create intergenerational improvement.

With the release of the State budget next month, we’re hoping to see further investment to support our growing region.

Reconfigurations of the bus network and new train stations at Mt Atkinson, Thornhill Park and Calder Park Drive would get residents out of their cars onto public transport.

Investment in the Plumpton Aquatic and Leisure Centre and the Cobblebank Community Services Hub would accommodate much needed allied health and community service needs.

While looking to the future of our community, it’s also important we commemorate the past.

Anzac Day pays tribute to our brave armed forces veterans who have given their all in the pursuit of freedom, peace and democracy. Council is proud to support our RSL sub-branches in holding Anzac Day events.

We also pay tribute to Allan Godfrey, one of our last World War II veterans who passed away in March aged 100. A much loved and respected member of our community, and we will miss him dearly. Rest in peace Allan and thank-you for your service.

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

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

A small act makes a big impact.

Did you know food scraps can also go in your green bin, along with garden clippings, to be turned into compost? If you live in the City of Melton you can opt in to receive a green bin at no additional cost.

Learn more at melton.vic.gov.au/FOGO

Pesutto and Libs woo the west

At this rate, Victorian opposition leader John Pesutto will know his way around Watton Street better than Spring Street.

It was down Werribee’s main drag on Thursday, April 11, that the Liberal party leader walked and talked shop with shoppers and shop owners, while a phalanx of advisers and colleagues hovered nearby.

Earlier in the day, the alternative premier visited a number of local sporting clubs and businesses where he addressed functions, posed for photos and provided a sympathetic ear to their concerns while accusing the state Labor government of taking them for granted.

Justfourdayslaterhewasbackagain,butthis time with the whole shadow cabinet in tow for a meeting at the Wyndham Park Community Centre on Monday, April 15.

The meeting featured presentations from localbusiness,communityandcouncilfigures, before a meet and greet session over lunch and a press conference where Mr Pesutto once again bagged the government for their neglect of Wyndham and the west, a message he said he’d heard during his ‘many’ visits to Wyndham in recent months.

Many visits?

A reminder: Wyndham and the broader north-west of Melbourne is an area where the Liberals hold precisely zero lower house seats, either state or federal.

The last Liberal to represent the state seat of Werribee left office when Dick Hamer was premier and in any case, the next state election is still the best part of three years away.

So why then are the Liberals regularly beating a path over the West Gate Bridge, through roadworks and traffic jams, to a place that has for decades been an electoral desert?

“I would argue that the most important reason to be out is to hear from locals about their priorities,” said Mr Pesutto when asked this question by Star Weekly following Monday’s shadow cabinet meeting.

“We understand fully that areas like Werribee are being neglected and we don’t think that’s fair or right,” he said, highlighting public transport, particularly the multi-billion suburban rail loop being built in Melbourne’s east,butwhichisn’tduetoreachWyndhamfor decades, if ever, as a prime example.

“Our concern with projects like that and blowouts on other projects is that it’s starving areas of like Werribee vital funds that they need to cater for growth. There’s enormous growth in areas like Werribee, far outstripping the growth that you’re getting in the inner suburbs. So it’s about doing what’s right and about how do we develop our state fairly.“

‘Fairness’, ‘neglect,’ ’being taken for granted’ – Mr Pesutto uttered these words and phrases almost as often as ‘and’ and ‘the’ during our conversation.

It was no accident.

The sense that voters in Melbourne’s rapidly growingouternorth-westfeeltakenforgranted by a Labor government who accept their votes but ignore their needs, is palpable and the opposition have clearly sniffed an opportunity.

A cynic might argue that they also have no other choice.

Out of office for all but four years of the 21st century and seeing their own heartland in the eastern and bayside suburbs eaten away by Labor, the Greens and the teal independents federally,theLiberalPartyhastomakeinroads into the outer north-west in order to survive, with even Mr Pesutto conceding that it hasn’t just been the ALP who have neglected the area.

“It’s because our party structure in terms of our membership hasn’t traditionally been strong out here,” he explained of why his party had performed so poorly in the area.

It’s a point backed up by Wyndham GP and former independent candidate for the state seats of Werribee and Point Cook, Dr Joe Garra.

“They (the Liberal Party) have their little branches and they just put up a candidate and you go ‘who’s this person?’ no one knows the candidate usually and then the candidate disappears once the election is over,” said Dr Garra of the Liberal’s lacklustre recent campaigns.

“I think it’s pleasing that they’re making a concerted effort to be seen locally and listen to people.”

Dr Garra was one of the people the Liberals listened to on Monday when he addressed shadow cabinet about issues affecting the health system in Wyndham such as the GP payroll tax.

ButwhiletheLiberalsaremakingmoreofan efforttolistentotheconcernsofpeoplesuchas Dr Garra, there’s still scepticism as to whether voters in Wyndham and neighbouring areas will listen to them.

Among them is pollster and former Labor strategist, Kos Samaras.

Mr Samaras said while the frustration among outer suburban voters with Labor was real, that didn’t mean the Liberals would necessarily benefit.

“There’s no real strong evidence to suggest that voter is being converted to the coalition,” hesaid,addingthiswaspartofanationaltrend of outer-suburban voters moving away from the two major parties.

“This is largely driven by what we define as millennialsandGenZ,whocomefromdiverse backgrounds. This is a complete move away from the major party system and hence, the Liberal Party is not going to capitalise on these defections.”

Rather, Mr Samaras predicts the biggest threat to Labor in the north-west, both at a state and federal level, will come in the form of well known and well funded independents.

“I suspect these communities are looking for an alternative. Sometimes that alternative manifests itself as a well known independent like we saw in the Sydney seat of Fowler (ex

Liberal turned independent, Dai Le won the seat from Labor at the 2022 federal election) and sometimes like what we saw in the state seat of Werribee in 2018.”

The independent candidate on that occasion was none other than Dr Garra, who gave long-time incumbent and state treasurer, Tim Pallas, a fright by securing almost 20 per cent of the vote and pushing the Liberals down to third.

But after contesting the neighbouring seat of Point Cook in 2022, something he now concedes was a mistake, Dr Garra saw his vote go backwards, as did other independents such as Melton candidate Dr Ian Birchnall.

“A lot of people seem to go back to minor parties rather than independents,” reflected Dr Garra on the difficulties facing independent candidates at a state level.

What all sides agree on is that there is an anti-Labor vote to be had, it’s just a matter of whether the Liberals can secure it . Afterall, the party has taken other outer suburban seats off the ALP, particularly in Melbourne’s south-east and Sydney’s west, so why not Melbourne’s north west too?

Mr Samaras said there are some key differences, particularly among migrant communities, that work against the Liberal Party in places like Wyndham, Melton and Craigieburn.

“If you think about the Indian-Australian community, for example, those Indian Australians living in Sydney are more likely to have supported the Liberal Party in the past versusthoselivinginMelbourne,”MrSamaras said,somethingheattributestohouseandland packages in these areas, being significantly cheaperthanequivalentplacesinSydney’swest

such as Camden.

“We got migrants who couldn’t afford the $1 million homes and hence were more likely to vote for Labor.”

Another hurdle for the Coalition is that for allthefrustrationandvoterfatiguewithLabor, the party still has deep roots and a formidable campaign infrastructure in Melbourne’s north-west. It won’t be surrendering it to anyone without a fight.

“The only time the Liberals pay attention to Melbourne’s western suburbs is when they’re cutting funding, closing schools and hospitals and going to war with workers,” was the typically combative response from Mr Pallas to the opposition stepping on his turf.

The government provided Star Weekly with blizzard of figures to counter the argument they are neglecting the west, including $1.5 billion for the new Footscray Hospital: $650 million to upgrade the Melton train line; nearly $700 million for upgraded roads and intersections across the west, $32 million for West Gate Bridge maintenance works; 50 new early learning centres; scores of new and upgradedschoolsanddozensof levelcrossings from Melton to Newport being removed.

Expect those and other figures to be repeated ad-nauseam between now and next state election in November 2026, when Labor will seek to win a fourth term in office while maintaining its hegemony on the north-west.

There’s no guarantee that Mr Pesutto will even make it to that election as Liberal leader, but when asked if the party will run a stronger campaign in places like Wyndham, with better candidates, more volunteers and more corflutes, he was unequivocal.

“You bet.”

Werribee MP and state treasurer Tim Pallas.

Liberal upper house member for Western Metropolitan, Trung Luu, at the shadow cabinet meeting in Werribee on April 15.

Opposition leader John Pesutto speaking with a Watton Street trader on a recent walk down the Werribee shopping strip.

Left: Mr Pesutto also visited the Werribee Football Club. Centre: GP and former independent candidate for the seats of Werribee and Point Cook, Dr Joe Garra, addressed shadow cabinet about health issues in Wyndham. (Pictures: Supplied) Right: Shadow cabinet members mingle with guests following their meeting at the Wyndham Park Community Centre on Monday April 15. (Cade Lucas) 402414_01

MARC top of funding wish list

Moorabool council is calling on the federal government commit funding in the federal budget to help build the rest of the Moorabool Aquatic and Recreation Centre. Thecouncilhasanumberofprojectsitwants funded in the upcoming state and federal budgets, with the MARC being the biggest project.

Moorabool chief executive Derek Madden saidcouncilcontinuestoadvocateverystrongly

for funding for the rapidly growing shire.

“We are hopeful the federal government agrees to fund the remaining $15 million shortfallinthedeliveryofthemuch-needed$80 million sporting facility in Bacchus Marsh,” he said. “Stage one is now complete with the indoor stadium recently opened to the public.

“This funding request was a federal election commitment from a few years ago, so we’re askingthemtohonourthatcommitmentasthe

need has only increased over time.”

Council has sought $15 million in federal governmentfundingforseveralyears,tomatch its $15 million commitment and $10 million from the state government, for the centre in Taverner Street, Bacchus Marsh.

Stage two will consist of a dedicated bowls and community hub, while the indoor pool complex is part of stage three.

Council figures reveal many other towns

Community roots shine bright

A Bacchus Marsh dentist who began his local career in a modest one-chair dental practice was ‘deeply honoured’ to be presented with the centre of excellence award by a globally recognised dental implant company.

Sunbury Dental House owner Dr Fong Yong was just the second recipient across Australia and New Zealand to be presented with the award from the Straumann Group.

DrYongsaidhisjourneyinSunburybegan11 yearsagowhenhetookthereinsofhispractice, which now operates six locations throughout Melbourne’s west, including Diggers Rest. “What started with a single clinician has blossomed into a dynamic group of over

30 skilled practitioners,” he said. “This remarkable journey of growth and service all began in Sunbury … [and is] a testament to the foundation laid in this community.”

Dr Yong said being acknowledged by the most prestigious and globally recognised dentalimplantcompanyaddsanextraordinary level of prestige to this accolade.

“This recognition not only highlights my contributions but also underscores the innovative impact of our work on the field of dental implantology.

“For the past 20 years, I’ve dedicated myself tointegratingthelatesttechnology,techniques, training, and materials into the area. I never

expected to receive any award for it.”

With deep roots in the Sunbury community, Dr Yong said his dental practice, Dental House Group, has a vision to forge connections and foster a strong sense of belonging among community members.

“Ibelievethatcontributingtoourcommunity lends an additional layer of significance to my life that transcends professional accomplishments.

“It’s about making a lasting, positive impact, offering support where it’s needed, and cultivating a spirit of unity that benefits everyone involved.”

Zoe Moffatt

similar in size to Bacchus Marsh have indoor aquatic facilities and the need is shown in Bacchus Marsh, with 56 per cent of surveyed outdoor pool users saying they’ve travelled outside Moorabool to attend indoor pools in other municipalities.

Among other projects the council would like funded are a major investment in roads across the shire and a little athletics track at Masons Lane Reserve.

Water week competition

Entries for this year’s National Water Week poster competition are now open and Greater Western Water (GWW) is inviting primary, kindergarten and early learning students to enter.

Students across Melbourne’s north-west are encouraged to apply for the popular competition.

Last year, GWW received more than 800 entries from 35 schools and early learning centres, across five age categories, with three local students going on to win statewide prizes.

This year, students are being asked to design, draw or paint a poster that reflects this year’s poster competition theme, “Water for all, inspiring action” which highlights the important role water plays in bringing individuals and communities together.

First prize winners from GWW’s local competition will automatically be entered into the state competition, with winners announced during National Water Week in October.

GWW strategy and partnerships general manager Kessia Thomson said the competition serves as a great opportunity for students to learn about the value of water.

“We’ve seen some incredible entries over the years that promote water saving tips, highlight how water connects communities and the need to protect water as a precious resource,” she said.

“We encourage all local students to get on board this great competition again and do our area proud.”

Students can win a voucher of up to $100 for themselves or $500 for their school to spend on a sustainability project.

Therearecategoriesforeachagerange, from early learning and kindergarten to grade 6. Entries close on September 6.

Details: https://www.gww.com.au/ about/community/national-water-week

Straumann Group representatives Fabiana Canepa, Nikki Luca and Suzette Eyes presenting Dr Fong Yong with the award. (Supplied)

MY PLACE

Kamal Arora is a Kurunjang resident who, outside his full-time work in records management, volunteers for Sri Durga Temple in Deanside and volunteers for an NDIS provider in Truganina. He spoke to Liam McNally about his connection to the local area.

Tell us a bit about you and what you do?

I moved from India to Australia in 2006. I lived in Perth for a couple of years but mostly lived in Melbourne, travelled across western and southern states of Australia. Initially, I started working with Woolies and later found my place in records management.

Tell us about your connection to Sri Durga? When my daughter started learning classical dance over the weekends, we started visiting the temple regularly. I saw the work happening and felt that this work is never ending so I starting helping at each event. Duties range from driving elderly to and from their place, decorations in the temple, purchasing supplies when needed and kitchen duties.

Tell us about your connection to Melton? We moved in from St Albans’ bustling streets to our calmer courts of Melton and bought our first home in 2014.

What do you like about where you live?

I like large blocks, quiet streets, creeks, walks, treks near Bacchus Marsh and the school near our place.

What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

We are a growing family with two kids plus we are nature lovers who like to live away from sharp construction noises and busy traffic. I find that open spaces are very important for growing up children. We are already living a dream, however, if situations and economics stay favourable, Darley is another suburb we can think about going to.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

It is difficut to find spare time with two young children, yet we go to Hannah Watts parks and Naven Park near Harkness and we don’t miss Djerriwarrah Festivals. Our Sundays are mostly spent in temple where children are engaged in learning.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.

I developed an odd skill over the COVID lockdowns – while gardening and pruning our trees, I collected a lot of sticks and

turned some of them into magic wands. Well, they don’t have magic in them but kids enjoy playing with them. I also made a lot of whistles out of sticks. I gave out more than 50 whistles to children. I have some more left, if anyone want free whistles please reach out to me.

(Damjan Janevski) 397079_01

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

Bacchus Marsh CWA

Do you enjoy baking, crafting or fundraising to support the community? Check out what the Bacchus Marsh branch of the CWA does and meet like-minded ladies. The group goes on day trips, market stalls, enjoys local dining and craft days and hosts guest speakers. It is are open to the public on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, from 9am-noon for morning or Devonshire Tea at the Darley Community and Civic Centre, Hallett’s Way (enter from Wittick Street). Jams, knitted, crocheted and sewn items are for sale, as well as its cookbooks. It is currently running a Mother’s Day raffle until the May 9, only $2 per ticket.

■ bacchus.cwa@gmail.com

Melton South Community Centre

Melton South Community Centre’s term two program is out now and open for enrolments, with options for all the family. To view the program, go to meltonsouth.org. au or pick up a copy at the centre.

■ 9747 8576

Cancer Support Group

MelMarsh Prostate Cancer Support Group is for prostate cancer patients and their carers and meets on the first Thursday of the month, from 12.30-2pm, at Melton South Community Centre. Attendees are encouraged as members share their journeys through what could be a very traumatic time of their lives. Explanations of medical terminology used in the treatment of this cancer are given in this group.

■ Grenville, 0412 741 865

Chatty Cafe Melton

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

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

Women’s Support Group

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

■ https://ow.ly/QVwJ50Q5g42

Caroline Springs Rotary

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

■ rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Melton Ladies Probus

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

■ Dianne, 9743 7446

The Gap on Graham

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

■ Val, 0414 769 605

Melton Men’s Group

Melton Men’s Group meets every Thursday from 5-8pm at Arnolds Creek Children’s

and Community Centre, 19 Claret Ash Boulevard, Harkness. Focusing on senior men’s mental and physical wellbeing. Join the group for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including carpet bowls, pool or table tennis.

■ meltonmensgroup.home.blog

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

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

Parkinson’s support group

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

■ Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Bridge Club

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

■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Zonta club meets

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

■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

Melton 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

Melton South Knit & Natter

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

■ 9747 8576

U3A Melton

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

■ 0419 563 016

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park

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

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

Melton Cycling Club

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

Moe’s for a cuppa.

■ 0403 057 003

Melton Combined Probus Club

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

■ 9746 0271

Community singing group

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

■ Val, 0418 667 150

Melton Trauma Teddies

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

■ Jean, 0412 931 498

Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh

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

■ https://63ec55b8628d6.site123.me/

Garden Club

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

■ Michelle, 0421 106 268

Community band

The Greater Western Community Band holds rehearsals on Thursdays 7.30-9.30pm at the Bridge Road

Community Centre, 260 Bridge Road, Strathtulloh. The group welcomes musicians young and old, to come along and join in with their local band.Woodwind, brass and percussion instruments. The group is available to perform at events and festivals.

■ Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582

Over 50s Social Group

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

■ Marlene, 0498 329 290

BusyFeet Hillside

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

■ Ross, 0411 228 311

Sunrise Social Groups

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

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of comedian Lisa Gatenby. (Damjan Janevski) 401135_01

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which Major League Baseball team has won the World Series a record 27 times?

2. Who did Shane Warne dismiss when he delivered his 'ball of the century' in 1993?

3. Who is the current captain of the Australian men’s national soccer team?

4. The disbanded Jaguares franchise were a Super Rugby team based in which country?

5. According to a recent decision, in which sport have transgender women been banned from international competition?

6. Who was the last AFL player to kick over 100 goals in a single season?

Which Kiwi fast bowler is the all-time leading wicket-taker in T20 international cricket?

Which is the only Formula One team to have competed in every season since the championship began in 1950?

The 1904 Olympic Games in St Louis coincided with which other event in the same city?

Andy Murray has been runner-up in which tennis tournament on five occasions?

How many FIFA continental zones are there?

12. An NBA basketball court is how wide to the nearest metre?

13. What nickname does the Australian bowls team go by?

14. Which capital cities in Australia have not hosted the Commonwealth Games?

15. What substance is a pool cue often dipped in?

16. How many women’s football clubs are taking part in the 2024 Sapphire Cup?

17. What is the minimum age for an Olympic archer?

18. What are curling stones made of?

19. Matildas star Caitlin Foord and which other player scored in their friendly against Mexico?

20. True or false: ice resurfacers used for winter sports are called Zambonis in reference to their inventor?

21. Steve Smith signed with which Major League Cricket team in the US?

22. Who did the Indiana Fever select with the first overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft?

23. 223cm (7ft 4inches) tall basketballer Jongkuch Mach represented which state at the 2024 U18 National Championships?

24. Which team finished top of the table at the end of the 2023–24 A-League Women regular season?

25. In which track and field throwing event does Mykolas Alekna hold the men's world record of 74.35m?

26. Who won the 2024 US Masters?

27. A jacket of what colour is traditionally awarded to the winner of the US Masters?

28. Chance the Gila monster is the costumed mascot of which NHL team?

29. The Australian men's national team of which sport is known as the Kelpies?

30. Recently retired footballer Nathan Murphy played for which AFL club?

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

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”.

2

3

4

5

6

7

MG4 XPower Hatch

– is it hot or not?

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

As we began this review of the MG4 XPower the company announced that it was switching to national driveway pricing for its entire fleet.

In the case of the MG4 range the new driveaway prices replace the previous manufacturer’s RRP and equate to savings of around $3000 to $5000.

The fully-electric MG4 was added to the MG range midway through 2023.

Unlike the ZS and HS EVs which are modified versions of the respective petrol vehicles, MG4 is a dedicated EV and the first to use the innovative Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) that will underpin a new generation of MGs.

MSP features rear-wheel drive, 50:50 weight distribution and thin battery technology.

MG4 comes in a choice of five variants: Excite 51 kWh, Excite 64 kWh, Essence 64 kWh, Essence 64 kWh, Essence 77 kWh Long Range and XPower 64 kWh.

The first four models have a single, rear-mounted motor, while XPower – the one we’re reviewing here – adds a front motor for all-wheel drive.

Driveaway prices now range from $39,990 fortheRWDExcite51kWhthroughto$59,990 for the high-performance AWD XPower.

Styling

While the MG ZS and HS models follow the predictable and functional SUV styling, MG4 is easily the most attractive vehicle we’ve seen yet from the Chinese carmaker.

A sleek profile is topped by a two-tone roof and there is an active intake grille shutter – no need for an ugly radiator intrusion up front. It rides on 18-inch alloys with aerodynamic covers, with LED rear lights, distinctive rear centre light bar and a twin-aero rear spoiler. There is no specific badging to distinguish the XPower from the rest of the MG4 range, apart from the name being shown on the tinny orange brake calliper covers.

XPower also gets re-tuned suspension for

25 percent extra stiffness, beefier anti-roll bars front and rear, re-calibrated steering and torque vectoring.

Interior

There’s little inside the XPower to distinguish it from the rest of the MG4 range.

Only the inclusion of a Track Mode feature activated from the touchscreen allows the driver to check lap and stage times, giving a clue to its performance alter ego.

The aforementioned Modular Scalable Platform creates good cabin and storage space, bearing in mind that it’s a compact hatchback and slightly smaller than Toyota Corolla, Hyundai i30 and Mazda3.

The two-level boot floor caters for 363 litres with the rear seats in place and 1177 litres when folded.

Infotainment

Infotainment features across the MG4 range include a 10.25-inch multifunction colour touchscreen, configurable 7.0-inch LCD digital instrument cluster, four-speaker audio, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB and FM Radio, multi-function steering wheel controls and three USB ports.

XPower adds satellite navigation with voice control and EV trip planning, 360-degree parking cameras, six-speaker premium audio with sound field calibration, and wireless smartphone charging.

The MG iSmart system integrates car, internet and communication enhanced by voice activation and remote-control features on XPower and Essence models.

Powertrain

XPower is the only MG4 variant to have electric motors for both the front and rear axles to provide the benefit of all-wheel drive.

All others have rear-mounted motors powered by either 51 kWh (Excite), 64 kWh (Excite or Essence) or 77 kWh (Essence Long Range) batteries.

The dual-motor, all-wheel drive MG4

XPower uses the mid-range 64 kWh battery to produce 320kW (150 kW from the front motor and 170 kW from the rear).

This, together with 600Nm of torque, makes it the most powerful production MG in Australia to date, capable of 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds.

Range is listed at 385km on the WLTP cycle. Not surprisingly that will drop down under aggressive driving.

There are four regenerative braking levels down to one-pedal mode.

Safety

MG4 received the maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating when tested last year.

Standard features include six airbags, enhanced ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and emergency brake assist, and electronic stability program, reversing camera, hill start assist with auto hold, automatic door unlocking and a collapsible steering column.

Also, standard is the MG Pilot advanced driver assistance system which adds lane keep assist and departure warning, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergencybraking,trafficjamassist,intelligent headlight control, speed assistance system and driver inattention alert.

Unfortunately, MG has followed the growing trend to switch various controls to the touchscreen, including the most commonly-used audio and air conditioning.

While it might suit the stylists it takes far too much of the driver’s attention away from the road ahead.

Interestingly, there’s a move underway in Europe where Euro NCAP are planning to deduct points where certain functions are not easily accessible via physical knobs and/or buttons.

Let’s hope that Australia’s ANCAP assessors follow that lead.

Driving

The first thing that you notice when you’re

ready to set off in the MG4 is that there’s no starter button or ignition key.

Rather, the car is ready to go within a few seconds of the driver sitting down and once the ‘Ready’ light shows on the driver information screen, it’s simply a case of moving a circular knob from ‘P’ to either ‘D’ or “R’.

One of the most appealing features of all electric vehicles is the instant acceleration that can see them leap ahead of the traffic from standstill.

The MG4 XPower raises the bar even further withitsstunning3.8-second0-100km/hsprint.

The jury’s still out on whether the XPower meets the hot hatch pub test.

While it clearly ticks most of the boxes in terms of its spectacular acceleration and speed, it doesn’t provide the same driver input and feedback as its petrol-powered rivals.

For a start there’s no manual gearbox – well, no gearbox at all – which is such an important ingredient for the driving enthusiast.

Likewise, while silent running is a positive feature for most EV buyers, the XPower misses out on the characteristic hot hatch engine sound track.

Ride and handling, although very good, lacks the feel of established hot hatches nor is it as balanced through corners.

Summing up

Ever since the first of the new Chinese MGs arrived here in 2018, we’ve found ourselves cringing a bit when cornered by devotees of the classic British sportscars that carried that iconic badge for decades.

Notanymore…becausetheMG4ingeneral, and the XPower in particular, can hold their own in any company.

With prices breaking through the key $40k barrier and range over 400km, depending on thevariant,theyopentheEVmarkettoawhole new customer base.

At just under $60k the XPower offers almost supercar performance at a fraction of the price.

But does it qualify as a hot hatch? We’d say no – not enough driving enjoyment.

Warriors made to pay the price

By Tara Murray

The Western Warriors will go back to basics after the most disappointing performance of their short history in the Victorian Netball League championship.

After falling just short against an undefeated Boroondara Express in the previous round, the Warriors were full of confidence heading into their match against the Bendigo Strikers on Wednesday night.

The Warriors though had no answers for the Strikers who had a comfortable 60-45 win.

Warriors coach Kim Bailey was left shellshocked following the performance.

“It was really disappointing after such a good game the week before and losing by only a goal,” she said. “To come out and put that on the court is a bit perplexing. I don’t know what happened.”

Bailey said the Strikers had been on a bit of a roll and that they had played really well. The two sides are the two new teams in the championship competition this year.

She said they had done their homework and it paid off.

“They took our goalers and midcourters out of the game,” she said. “Milly Brock had a good game and we couldn’t stop her.”

Bailey said after a slow start that they had managed to get the margin back to six goals at half time.

The focus was to level the score heading into the final quarter, but they weren’t able to do that.

She said that in a number of the key areas, the Strikers were on top.

“We had 34 negative turnovers, they only had 24,” she said.

“They had 15 intercepts to our six, they were telling things. They had more opportunities.

“We normally shoot in the 90s, we shot at 78 percent.Wecouldnotgetitinefficientlytoour shooters.”

Kim Borger shot 21 goals for the Warriors, well down on her normal impact.

Bailey said Akira McCormack gave them something different in the circle, but it came too late.

Bailey said they would take a lot out of the game and there were things that they would still need to work on.

“Good teams have sustained good games together,” she said. “We need to do that, we need to be more consistent.

“Hopefully that was just an abnormally. Nothing we did worked.”

Despite the loss, the Warriors, who are in ninth spot, sit four points outside the top four.

ItwasatoughnightfortheWarriorsunder-23 sidethatledallnightagainsttheStrikersbefore losing 54-53.

Bailey said they had costly turnovers at the wrong times. She said the group needs to get into a winning mindset.

The Falcons next match against the Hawks will be their first at Cobblebank Stadium in Melton on Sunday.

Bailey said they were hoping to get a big crowd out to watch them on their home court.

As well as the under-23s and championship side, there will be an exhibition game beforehand.

The action starts at 11.30am.

Vanessa Augustini. (Netball Victoria/Grant Treeby)

‘Relief’ as Cobras break through for first win

Bacchus Marsh made hard work of it, but broke through for its first win of the Ballarat Football League season.

The Cobras opened their account with a hard fought win against Lake Wendouree at CE Brown Reserve.

The Cobras led by 14 points at quarter time, before straight kicking had the Lakers in front by eight points at half time.

After the break, the Cobras cleaned up their kicking, having kicked 11 behinds in the first half, and regained the lead heading into the final quarter.

The Cobras managed to outscore the Lakers in the final quarter to win, 11.16 (82)-11.9 (75). Cobras coach Dennis Armfield said it was nice to get the monkey off the back.

“I would have liked it a little bit easier, but it’s always a relief to get the win,” he said. “It’s nice for myself, but it shows the club is heading in the right direction.

“The joy for the boys to get that first win.”

Armfield said they took lessons from their first round loss to Ballarat, when they faded

late. He said coaching wise they got their rotations and positional changes correct. He said Saturday ended up being a game of

two halves.

“We come out and played some really good footy, but we couldn’t capitalise on the work. I think our first six shots we kicked six behinds and they went down the other end and kicked one.

“To Lakers credit they kicked very straight. Wewereabletowinthemorecrucialmoments to get over the line.

Jake Owen kicked three goals for the Cobras, while Ashton Craig got two.

Armfield said Tyson Shea was a standout leading from the front in the contested football, while Luke Goetz gave them first use out of the ruck.

Jack Kovacevic went back and did a job in defence while Ashton Craig continued his good start to the season.

The Cobras this week face local rivals Darley.

While new to the Cobras, Armfield is aware of the rivalry between the two clubs.

“My in-laws have lived here from many years and I was told right from the very start,

Devils undergo renewal

By Tara Murray

The next generation is starting to come through for Darley in the Ballarat Netball League.

After two straight grand finals with a similar line up, there have been some changes at the Devils in the off season.

Devils coach Di McCormack said it was always hard losing key pieces of a squad, she was looking forward to the new challenge. She said what she had aimed for when she took over as coach is starting to come to fruition.

“The last two years I’ve known what the side has been that I’ve gone out to coach,” she said. “There’s a bit of an unknown and there’s a number of fresh faces.

“The club is in a really good position and doing a great job of developing their players. They now have a chance to play at the highest level.”

The Devils have lost Rebecca Hicks, who was the competition’s leading goal scorer last season, who has joined the Sunbury Lions.

Star defender Grace Markovic is also on the move, having crossed to Hepburn in the Central Highlands Netball League

Anna Lawley has joined the club and will form a strong combination in the defence end.

Ella Closter has stepped up to A-grade and will fill the void left by Hicks.

Olivia Cawthray, who spent much of last season injured, is back fully fit as well.

McCormack said it was exciting for Closter, who has made her Victorian Netball League under-23, have the chance to step up.

“I’m super proud of her,” she said. “She’s had a lot of foot injuries and she’s still been able to get where she is.”

Chelsea Mason and Lucy Taylor, who were also part of the under-19 premiership team last season with Closter, will also play some A-grade this season. Holly Barrett another of that team played in round one as well.

McCormack said they had a lot of Darley juniors flowing through the other grades which was a really good sign for the future of the club.

The Devils started the season with a solid win against East Point. Key midcourters Prue Stanley and Shannon Blackman both missed the match.

TheDevilsonSaturdayfacedNorthBallarat in a grand final rematch.

The Devils were able to get some region, winning 43-42.

Cawthray shot 31 goals for the Devils.

McCormack said while they would love to get back to another grand final, for them this season it’s about the bigger picture.

McCormack said it would take a while for

things to click. She had only three in person sessions with them before the season started due to an overseas trip.

“There will be some challenges,” she said.

“There’s a few good recruits.

“We’re aiming to make the top six and

pick a side and stay on that side.

“Heath Scotland, who coached Darley, is already sending me messages.

“It’s a good opportunity at their ground. They are a quality team and no better challenge.”

Darley and North Ballarat played out another thriller, this time under lights at MARS Stadium in the grand final rematch.

Both teams found it hard to score with North Ballart winning, 5.11 (41)-5.8 (38).

Melton made it two from two with a second straight 100 point plus win, this time against Sebastopol.

After smashing Melton South in round one, the Bloods faced a tougher opposition in the Burras, in what was expected to be a close match.

The Bloods came out firing and kept the pressure on throughout, winning 25.13 (163)-6.8 (44).

ItwasanothertoughweekforMeltonSouth, which lost the Sunbury Lions., 26.8 (164)-3.2 (20).

Favourite takes title

Mark Pitt completed a winning quartet when he piloted short priced favourite Bay Of Biscay to an effortless win the $150,000 Alabar Bloodstock Nutrien Equine Classic (3YO colts and geldings) final at Melton.

Bay Of Biscay was allowed to bowl alongofhisownaccordintheleadbefore throwing a 27.1 last 400 metres at his rivals to score by nine metres from NSW pacer Snakeskin.

Pitt conceded the race was Bay Of Biscay’s to lose.

“He was back in grade tonight and I thought his runs up at Menangle were pretty super, so I thought he just had to go around tonight,” he said.

Pitt said it’s always satisfying to perform on feature race nights.

“These big races are the ones we all want to win and it’s been great that I’ve been able to win four on a night like tonight,” he said.

Talented NSW filly Lux Aeterna made it a one act affair scoring back-to-back wins in the $150,000 Woodlands Stud Nutrien Equine Classic (3YO Fillies) final.

Sent out the $1.28 favourite, Lux Aeterna led comfortably from her favourable barrier and reeled off a 55.7 last 800 metres to post an easy 23 metre win from Thesunandthemoon and Ignite The Fire.

The same three horses filled the placings in last year’s two year old fillies final.

Lux Aeterna had finished unplaced in the Bathurst Gold Bracelet final and Riverina Oaks at her past two starts and it was a relieved trainer-driver Rickie Alchin who returned after the race.

“Just off the back of her last three runs it’s just good to see her back and she felt pretty good tonight,” he said.

“And taking nothing away from the opposition, if she’s going to be competitive in the (NSW) Oaks next week then she had to win like that, it’s just very good to have her back.”

John Dunne

anything can happen from there.”

In other results. Melton lost to Sebastopol, 43-41, Melton South lost to the Sunbury Lions, 67-46 and Bacchus Marsh lost to Lake Wendouree, 70-22.

Dennis Armfield (right) coached his first win on Saturday. (Supplied)

Matilda Elliot (Jacob Pattison) 334038_07

Clubs calling for changes to the WFL

A Western Football League coach is among those calling for changes to be made to the competition structure, or risk losing clubs and players.

In the off season, the league moved from three divisions to two divisions. The top division increased to nine teams, while division 2 has 14 teams after Glen Orden failed to get a team up.

Concerns about blowouts in the scores were circulating before the season started and they were validated in round one.

Sunshine beat North Sunshine by 252 points, while Albion and Newport also had 100 point wins, while Braybrook won by 92 points.

A coach of a division 2 side, who didn’t want to be named, is calling on the league to make changes now.

“Had they listened to the people, this wouldn’t have happened,” he said. “When you

have the top teams in division 2 that could comfortably beat some division 1 teams, it’s hard.

“Multiple clubs want it to be changed and it needs to be fixed before it is too late.”

The coach said that they believed that it needed to return to three divisions or if it was too hard in terms of fixturing, keep the same fixture but play two different finals series, with a finals series for the bottom seven sides.

The coach said if changes weren’t made it would have a massive impact on the competition. He said other clubs shared the same view and wanted changes.

“People are leaving straight away,” he said. “Some teams struggled to field teams in round one.

“Tarneit was calling out for players and it’s only round one.

“We will see senior teams forfeit this season.”

The coach said he was expecting 400-plus losses during the season and that fans would turn away from turning up if they knew they were expecting big losses.

“The WFL has to act and respond to this before it’s too late,” he said. “They will kill the participation of people in sport.”

Sunshine coach Ben Chapman said after his side’s big win against North Sunshine, that top teams from division 2 should not be playing the low teams from division 3 so early in the season.

Meanwhile a petition has been set up by one fan who has accused the league of deliberately forcing lower category recreational clubs to extinction.

“The heartless decision to take away the third division in 2024 will shut the doors for multiple clubs,” the petition said.

The WFL said it wouldn’t be commenting at this stage.

Lakers score huge win

The motivation remains high for Caroline Springs in the Western Football League women’s competition.

The Lakers fell agonisingly short in the division 1 grand final last year to Spotswood and having kept the core group of their side togetherwillagainbeupamongthefavourties.

Lakers coach Alex O’Shea said it was nice to have footy back.

“It’s a new competition with only one division which is nice, with different teams. We’re down from two teams to one as with women’sfootynumberswilldropoffattimes,” shesaid.“We’refocusingononewomen’steam and have a strong junior program throughout the club and years to come hopefully we can build up a second team again.

“We have a really strong under-18 team with six girls playing at the Western Jets.”

O’Shea said it had been nice to keep the core

group together so they can continue to keep the continuity of the group. She said they had made some changes off field as well to help build the program and remain strong.

“We’ve restructured the coaching team and bought in a few extra coaches, some line coaches and we’ve changed the outlook for the season and how we move forward,” she said.

“I have high expectations of the girls, but it’s good to remember that we need to have a good time and have fun and remember why we want to play footy.”

O’Shea said the playing group had plenty of motivation after falling just short last year.

She said many players trained together in the off season without the coaches.

On field, she said several girls have different roles this season and she was keen to see what they could do.

The Lakers started the season with a loss

structure

A league report released in September, said the WFL will work closely and provide club development staffing resources to those clubs that may need extra assistance as they move from division 3 into division 2 football.

“It is evident that youth football must be a key area of focus of the league for the future sustainability of clubs of the WRFL,” the report said.

“There are some clubs with no pathways from juniors to youth football at all, some that require strengthening of relationships between juniors and seniors and others that require assistance in recruiting and retaining players.

“There was an overwhelming amount of feedback that the grading for junior grades of football is currently not working as well as it could be.”

Tara Murray

Sports shorts

Australia Cup

Spring Hills is through to the next round of the Nike F.C Cup. Spring Hills faced Ashburton and were able to come away with a 9-0 win. Spring Hills will face Essendon Royals in round five, with only 20 teams remaining.

RDFL

Diggers Rest bounced back after its first loss of the Riddell District Football League season with a big win against Melton Centrals on Saturday. The Burras led 44-2 at quarter time and it set the tone for the rest of the match, with the Burras winning 21.12 (138)-3.5 (23). Shaun Campbell kicked seven goals in a best on ground performance for the Burras. Dylan Jobson kicked two goals for Centrals, while Milan Savic was named their best.

RDNL

Diggers Rest opened its account in the Riddell District Netball League on Saturday. Facing Melton Centrals, the Burras jumped out to a 22-6 first quarter and were able to maintain the bad throughout, winning 63-35. Leona Hristovska shot 31 goals for the Burras, while Lauren Creed shot 20. For Centrals, Helen Aumua shot 23 goals.

FV

to Werribee Centrals. O’Shea said they were beaten by a better opposition on the day.

“Wedon’twanttolose,butwetakealotfrom that and will build throughout the season. We can continue to correct those things that we need to work on.”

The Lakers got on the winners list on Saturday, beating Wyndhamvale. It was a big win for the Lakers, winning 13.17 (95)-0.2 (2).

Jactina Kondis kicked five goals for the Lakers in a best on ground performance. Kyah Tessari and Rebecca Marshall also had strong games. The Lakers face Yarraville-Seddon this Saturday in round three.

The Lakers men’s division 1 side also got its first win of the season on Saturday, beating Hoppers Crossing, 9.18 (72)-6.12 (48).

Bailey Raak kicked four goals for the Lakers and was named their best. The Lakers host Parkside this Saturday in round three.

Westside Stirkers had a big win on Saturday against Barnstoneworth United in the FV state league 4 west competition. After leading 2-0 at half time, the Strikers were able to finish it off in the second half, winning 3-1. David Torres Suarez scored twice for the Strikers. Melton Phoenix made it two in a row with a win against Bell Park. The Phoenix led 1-0 at half time before both teams scored in the second half, giving the Phoenix a 2-1 win. In state league 5 west, Spring Hills had a 3-1 win against ETA Buffalo Club of Victoria.

Jacinta Kondis kicked five goals on Saturday. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 359360_29

Squash star Tina Ma continues her strong form

Tina Ma has spent much of the last few weeks on the squash court, with plenty to show for it. The Melton rising star competed in three major tournaments in the short time, coming away with two major titles and having another opportunity to represent her country

She said while there was plenty of action on court, it actually felt like a breeze for her.

“Two weeks before the competitions started I was still extremely focused with training, and working hard to get results I hoped for,” she said.

“Over the last week was when the competitions were held and thankfully all my training paid off as I won the under-15’s Australian Junior Open title and the under-15’s Oceania Junior Championships title for the third consecutive year in a row.

“I also got selected to play for Australia in the Trans Tasman Test Series against New

Zealand, and my matches also ran very smoothly across those two days.”

Ma said while she was wanting to go in and have some good competitions, she had exceeded her own expectations.

“I played way better than I thought I would’ve,” she said.

“I was definitely nervous at the beginning with all the tournaments, luckily I managed to overcome that and managed to play at my best and gain a lot of experience from it too.”

Ma said she loved the opportunity to represent Australia again, saying it was a real honour.

She said it’s her aim every year to make the national team.

“Weallplayedincrediblywell,andmanaged to beat New Zealand 20-11,” she said.

“Apart from squash though, I also had lots of fun connecting with other players in the

team and we had a really great time on court cheering each other on, and off court making memories that I’ll never forget.”

Ma said she couldn’t have done what she has the last three weeks without the support of her coaches,RichardCagliariniandAnthonyHill, training partners at Squash Logic Melton, parents, friends and her sponsor Technifibre.

With no major tournaments the next few months, Ma said she will play a few more senior tournaments to gain more experience for the Australian Junior Championships in September and October this year.

Her main aim of making the 2032 Olympics remains the big goal.

“That’s always been a dream of mine that I’ll keep on pushing hard to achieve, and maybe one day I’ll make it.”

Bears find a way to win

By Tara Murray

Burnside Heights will take plenty out of its first two matches of the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 season. The Bears are undefeated after two very different performances against Greenvale and then Tullamarine on Saturday.

Bears coach Michael Davis said it had been a bit of a slow start for them.

“We had seven girls leave to various clubs or not play for various reasons,” he said.

“We have four new girls that are learning the system and there’s a new coach and a different style of football.

“We are playing more defensive and looking to lock the ball in and have repeat inside 50s.”

Davis said that their leaders, led by captain Kayla Ravanello, had been doing a really good job directing the side on field.

On Saturday, it was a frustrating win for Davis to watch on the sidelines.

The Bears struggled with accuracy but were able to do enough, winning 3.13 (31)-1.0 (6).

“It was terrible,” Davis said of the goalkicking. “Most were 15-20 metres out and

the wind was going straight down the middle of the ground.

“It wasn’t panic stations, we were in complete control. We just didn’t take our opportunities.”

Bella Negri kicked two of the three goals for the Bears.

Nikkita Asani-Davis and Ashley Zahara were named their best.

Davis said while it was a frustrating game to watch, it would give them plenty to take forward.

“The good thing about the outcome of the Greenvale game, we played good clean football, which was different to the weekend,” he said.

“We’re slowly getting information to work with that we can get right over the coming weeks.”

Davis, who is coaching the side for the first time, said it was a different challenge coaching women.

He had previously coached under-18 boys and under-18 girls teams before.

For him the biggest thing is about building the culture.

Bulls name new coach

New coach Bacchus Marsh cricket coach Sam Crea said being able to coach in his home town was something he dreamt of.

Crea was announced as the coach of the Ballarat Cricket Association club, replacing Paul Baker who is now coaching close to his home.

Crea said he’s looking forward to the challenge ahead of him.

“When I moved to the area five years ago, I dreamt of coaching a club close to home,” he said. “I was approached by the club at the end of my season with Grand United and they were saying their senior coach might be finising up and there could be an opportunity.

“My time at Grand United was ending. Thedirectionoftheclub[BacchusMarsh] wants to go and the strong core values n the community sits well with me.”

Crea spent two seasons at Grand United, starting his coaching career at his junior club.

He said he learned so much in that time.

Coming to the Bulls, Crea has some connections at the club and the community as a whole. He has coached in the Central Highlands and Gisborne and District Cricket Association as well meaning he is familiar with many of the players.

“It’s about continuing to build on the platform on what has been done in previous years.

“We want to build something for the future and for the under-18s to come up into senior football.”

This Saturday, the Bears face Strathmore-Pascoe Vale, which is yet to win a match.

The Bears men’s side is also undefeated after two rounds in the division 2 competition.

The Bears faced the Northern Saints on Saturday.

After the Bears led early, scores were level at half time. It was the Bears leading by 23 points at three quarter time.

They were able to hold strong in the final quarter, winning 14.11 (95)-11.9 (75).

In division 1, Hillside caused an upset win against West Coburg.

The Sharks came from 21 points down at three quarter time to win a thriller, 17.9 (111)-16.12 (108).

In the women’s premier division, Hillside had a big win against Westmeadows, 13.17 (95)-0.2 (2).

“I play at the footy club,” he said. “During 2020, I trained with the club as I couldn’t train with Grand United [due to COVID].

“I’ve coached three of the boys playing this year. It’s a fresh start for me but I know enough people inside the club.”

Crea, who played Victorian Premier Cricket,saidhewouldbeaplayingcoach, with his best cricket still ahead of him.

The new coach said he didn’t know much about the Ballarat Cricket Association, but knows they are in a strong competition. He and the club are keen to build on their first season in the competition.

“This year was move a developing year,” he said. “Many of them had not played turf before.

“They have put the right steps in place and we’re looking to bring some old players back to the club.”

Tara Murray

Tara Murray Tina Ma (Rogue Gun Photography and Media)

Kiara Asani-Davis (Ljubica Vrankovic)