Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 7th May 2024

Celebrating all mums

Mum’s across the west will take centre stage on Sunday.

Their kids have been busy crafting homemade cards, shopping up a storm at the school Mother’s Day stall and putting the finishing touches to their breakfast in bed menus ahead of Mother’s Day.

Among those eagerly anticipating the special day is Jessica McCalman, who is looking forward to having a reason to celebrate Mother’s Day this year.

The first-time mum from Brookfield lost her mum 11 years ago and said Mother’s Day has been a hard time of the year for her ever since.

But this year, Jess will mark the special day with her 10-month-old son, Theodore (Teddy).

“I’m looking forward to celebrating it again,” she said.

“I’m suppose I’m looking forward to spending time with my son. We are going out for dinner.”

Jess said she was enjoying motherhood.

“I’m loving being a mum,” she said, “It probably helps that Teddy is very happy and sleeps well.”

Overpass a ‘death trap’

By Hannah Hammoud

A busy overpass on the Melton Highway in Sydenham has been labelled as a “death trap” due to growing neglect and disrepair.

Resident and support worker, Michelle Wheeler, said each morning, she accompanies a sight-impaired client on a walk across the overpass on the Melton Highway, using the stairs on Sydenham Road.

Ms Wheeler said they have been walking the same route for more than two years and in that time the overpass has become increasingly dangerous in its lack of upkeep. Loose strips, posing as tripping hazards, litter the walkway, as well as a piling build up of dumped rubbish. The stairs themselves also show signs of neglect and decay.

“This is a death trap for those who rely on access via this overpass. Many elderly and

disabled people use these stairs [and] we need to walk single file as the build up [of rubbish] is so bad,” she said.

Despite numerous attempts to address the issue with VicRoads, Ms Wheeler said her

pleas for maintenance and repair have fallen on deaf ears. While occasional cleaning efforts have been made, she said these actions are insufficient and short-lived, with the overpass quickly reverting to its hazardous state.

“My client and I walk the same route every day. She’s always walked that way when she had vision so she’s obviously now comfortable walking that way. Several times we’ve had to go a different way because the stairs are in such bad disrepair, but there is not really another suitablewayforustogo,sometimesitisactually even more dangerous,” Ms Wheeler said.

“We’ve both tripped, both slipped on things or caught our feet. I’ve caught my toes in it before and I can see what I’m doing … she can’t see and often her cane gets caught in the rubbish.

“There are 42 stairs and if she falls or trips then I have to deal with it. If I fall, then she’s

stuck midway on those stairs.

“They are dangerous and filthy, we call them the stairs of death when we get there.”

Ms Wheeler said despite repeated attempts to address the issue with VicRoads, she and her client are often left waiting for action to be taken.

“I’ve contacted VicRoads and they tell us the request is on a docket but it takes forever to get done and when it does get done it’s only half done, they clean it up but there’s no repair. They just come out and give it a quick clean,” she said.

“It was one thing when it was dirty, but it is unsafe and it’s a main thoroughfare. There is an elderly home nearby and they have to use that overpass to get across. It won’t be long before someone hurts themselves if they don’t do something, but they just don’t care.”

VicRoads was contacted for comment.

Michelle Wheeler is calling on VicRaods to repair a Melton Highway overpass in Sydenham.

(Damjan Janevski) 404320_01

Jessica McCalman with son Teddy. (Damjan Janevski) 404934_10

Police target knife-related crime

By Hannah Hammoud

As community concerns continue to grow over knife-related incidents in Brimbank, police say they are investing “significant energy” into tackling the issue.

Brimbank Acting Inspector Cameron Sanderson said overall crimes against the person in Brimbank have dropped by 22 per cent since 2019.

“More than 60 per cent of all assaults in Brimbank are common law assaults which essentially means they are minor assaults with no injuries,” he said. “… We also know

that most stabbings in Victoria occur between parties known, including family violence and intra-criminal incidents.”

In the month of April alone, police charged three locals with knife-related criminal incidents.

On April 21, police charged a Kings Park manfollowinganallegedstabbingatHighpoint Shopping Centre in Maribyrnong.

Four days later, police charged a Braybrook boy after an alleged affray and stabbing at Highpoint Shopping Centre on April 25.

Five days after that, police charged a16-year-old boy who was arrested at a Keilor

Festival first celebration

ThelegendofGiongissettoarriveinStAlbans for a celebration of Vietnamese culture and heritage.

Held for the first time in Australia, the Giong festival is one of Vietnam’s most celebrated occasions.

The festival is set for Errington Reserve this Sunday, and will feature many Vietnamese traditional folk games, traditional music and dances, Giong Legend storytelling, magic tricks, food, prizes and much more.

Event organiser Linda Nguyen said the festival honours the legend of Giong and shares the strength and spirit of the Vietnamese people.

“This is a legend that is thousands of years old. It is our Vietnamese tradition to encourage the spirits of the people who fought back with the enemies long ago in history,” she said.

Ms Nguyen said the festival has found a

home in St Albans due it’s large Vietnamese community.

“In Australia, within the Vietnamese community, this event has never happened before. Usually there are just the popular eventssuchastheLunarNewYearcelebrations and the Full Moon Festival,” she said.

“We are hosting a free event for everyone to attend, not just the Vietnamese community. We encourage people of all backgrounds to come and get to know more about Vietnamese history and culture.”

The festival has been supported by the state government, in collaboration with co hosts Vietnamese Federation Australia, NEWGENs, and Suzucho Karatedo.

The Giong Festival will be held at Errington Reserve, Main Road East, St Albans on May 11, from 11am-4pm.

Creating a green legacy

Keilor’s Overnewton Anglican Community College has been nominated as a finalist in the School Volunteer of the Year category of the 2024 ResourceSmart Schools Awards.

Last year’s winner of the Student Action Team of the Year (Primary) and winner of the Emerging School of the Year in 2022, Overnewton College’s nomination in the Volunteer of the Year category comes off the back of the efforts of the school and its parent sustainability group.

More than 30 volunteers with varied skill sets, such as engineers and sustainability experts, collaborate with staff to develop and deliver on curriculum and infrastructure, resulting in many of the school’s ongoing sustainability initiatives.

Their creativity led them to develop the Party Kit Network program for families to host events without relying on single-use plastics.

Overnewton Anglican Community College principal Emily Fitzsimons said the school community is “incredibly grateful” to the hard work and dedication of the parent

Downs address following an alleged stabbing in St Albans on April 30.

Acting Inspector Sanderson said police are aware that just one incident can “greatly impact” the community’s perception of safety.

Brimbank police have implemented a multi-faceted approach to target the carriage of knives including uniform police conducting 24-7 patrols of Brimbank’s shopping centres and train stations.

“Thisincludesdedicatedoperationstargeting youth gangs as we know they are more likely to carry weapons in public, and targeted searches in public places such as railway stations,”

Acting Inspector Sanderson said. “However, carrying weapons is a societal issue so I’d implore parents and carers to sit down with their kids and explain the dangers of carrying a knife.”

Police are also inviting the Brimbank community to attend the Neighbourhood Policing Forum at Club Italia, 128-152 Furlong Road, Sunshine North, on May 8, commencing at 5.30pm.

The forum will provide the community with an opportunity to talk with police about issues that are important to them.

Details: https://shorturl.at/afgzH

sustainability group.

“The group has taken an amazing life of its own, with 30 active parent volunteers led by parent Stephanie Mitten,” she said. “The whole thing speaks to this collaborative spirit at our college, where parents, staff, and students work together to create positive change.

“The group has a passion for making meaningful impact, not just for our college but for wider Brimbank. We are trying to support sustainable initiatives beyond our gates and to the local Brimbank community.”

There are 22 schools vying for an award in Victoria’s largest celebration for primary and secondary school students, teachers and school volunteers taking sustainability action.

This year, Sustainability Victoria is marking 15 years of the ResourceSmart Schools Awards with the theme, ‘Legendary Legacies – what will you leave behind?’.

Details: www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/ resourcesmart-schools-awards-2024-finalists

Hannah Hammoud

Year 8 sustainability students Destinee, Desi, Amelia and David with the waste-free party kit. The Parent Sustainability Group initiated the Party Kit Network for school and community use to enable children’s parties without single use plastics. (Kim Selby Photography)

Giong festival organisers Son Nguyen, Alain Palines, Ha Nguyen, Mary Ma, Linda Nguyen, Quan Do and David Phan. (Damjan Janevski) 404750_02

Hannah Hammoud

Help us shape Brimbank

There’s still time to provide your feedback on Brimbank’s:

• Council Plan Action Plan for 2024-2025,

• Draft Annual Budget 2024-2025, and

• Financial Plan 2024-2034.

The draft Annual Action Plan includes 81 actions that respond to what we heard and understand is important to our community.

The draft budget outlines our financial commitments to deliver our Council Plan, Together We are Brimbank 2021-2025, and a range of important services, programs and infrastructure. At the end of last year, we asked over 120 community members to share their insights about community priorities.

They told us public realm, roads and footpaths were of highest importance, while climate and conservation were the top priorities for young people.

Our total budget for 2024-2025 is $264.9 million with a total operating expenditure of $263.2 million. We’re proposing to spend $58.7 million on capital works projects for essential infrastructure and assets, such as improving sports, community and early learning facilities, roads, parks, playgrounds and drainage rehabilitation.

Provide your feedback at yoursay. brimbank.vic.gov.au by 16 May 2024

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

• Council Plan Action Plan for 2024-2025, Draft Annual Budget 2024-2025, and Financial Plan 2024-2034

Looking for work? Get the tools and confidence you need to get the job you want at these free jobseeker events being held across Brimbank.

The main event is the Brimbank Local Jobs Showcase on Wednesday 15 May from 2-6pm at Brimbank Learning Futures (Visy Cares Hub). Discover local employment opportunities, meet employers and business owners.

Visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/careersweek for more information.

Lifesaving program launches in Sunshine Sunshine residents can receive free CPR training or host a defibrillator as part of the lifesaving St John Ambulance Victoria program Defib in Your Street. If you live in this suburb, which includes Sunshine, Sunshine North, and Sunshine West - visit defibinyourstreet.org.au to learn more.

• Glengala Village streetscape improvements

• Monash Pizzey Reserve Mural

• Fix the Calder

Stand for Council With Council elections happening this year, now is the time to put your hand up to take on this very important role in your community.

In partnership with Councils, the Municipal Association of Victoria is hosting regional-based information sessions to provide information and inspiration for potential councillors.

The Metropolitan West session will be hosted by Wyndham City Council on Wednesday 5 June. Visit mav.asn.au/ stand-for-council-2024 to learn more about the campaign.

Light Up Errington

The popular sports oval and multipurpose soccer and basketball courts in St Albans will be lit from sundown to 9pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays up until the end of September. This will allow more people to use the space at a time that usually wouldn’t be possible.

Your Councillors are always happy to hear from you

Cr Victoria Borg 0429365527 CrBorg@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Sarah Branton 0407836064 CrBranton@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Thuy Dang 0437744803 CrDang@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Sam David JP 0429355239 CrDavid@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Maria Kerr 0437796630 CrKerr@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Bruce Lancashire 0429637689 CrLancashire@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Jasmine Nguyen 0437740042 CrNguyen@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Thomas O’Reilly 0409210431 CrOReilly@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Jae Papalia (Deputy Mayor) 0437838710 CrPapalia@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Ranka Rasic (Mayor) 0437861296 CrRasic@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Cr Virginia Tachos 0428915671 CrTachos@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Councils told to shape up

By Hannah Hammoud

The state government has introduced new reforms to improve council governance and integrity standards to be in place for the new council term, following the local government elections in October.

The reform of the Local Government Act 2020, introduced into parliament on May 1, aims to elevate governance and integrity standards in Victoria’s 79 councils.

Since the last council elections in 2020, 56 councillors have resigned and 11 councils have had municipal monitors appointed, with one council suspended and one dismissed as a result of governance issues.

In February this year, Local Government Minister Melissa Horne announced Janet Dore and Penelope Holloway had been appointed as monitors to Brimbank council until the end of the year. At the time, Ms Horne said assigning monitors had proved to be effective at guiding councils to make improvements in governance to help them better serve their communities.

“The purpose of local government is to serve its community, and the appointment of municipal monitors at Brimbank City Council will help resolve ongoing issues at the council,“ Ms Horne said at the time.

The decision came after months of tensions among councillors. As reported by Star Weekly , several councillors failed to attend twocouncilmeetingslatelastyearwhichledto

one meeting not being held. Two councillors, Maria Kerr and Virginia Tachos, highlighted feeling unsafe on council.

The new reforms announced on May 1, will provide councils with a uniform councillor code of conduct to create consistent standards of behaviour and increase accountability. A program of mandatory training will also be introduced for councillors and mayors, including annual professional development.

The reforms will also introduce stronger sanctions for councillor misconduct and improvedprocessestoresolveconductmatters earlier. The local government minister will also have strengthened powers to deal with councillors who are putting health and safety at risk or are preventing their council from performing its functions.

Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic said council welcomes the new reforms which will “help support improved governance, accountability and councillor behaviour across the local government sector.”

“Council is committed to the highest level of ethical conduct and integrity and works in accordance with the Local Government Act and all other applicable legislation that govern our work,” Cr Rasic said.

“This February, we welcomed the appointment of municipal monitors to improve behaviour and governance for our community’s benefit and the councillors and the executive leadership team continue to work closely with the monitors.”

AFL star inspires youths

Former AFL star-turned-media figure Brenden Fevola shared the highs and lows of his personal and professional life in a bid to inspire a group of at-risk youth as they graduated from AGAs Flip My Ride program in Deer Park.

The program, a collaboration between AGA (part of the IntoWork Group), Victoria Police, Youth Empowerment Agency, and Jacky’s Gym, aims to steer marginalised youth away from the justice system by teaching them practical skills through restoring cars.

Twenty-one students from areas including Brimbank, Melton, Wyndham, and Maribyrnong completed the program, which not only imparts automotive trade skills but also covers areas such as first aid, money management, anger management, and nutrition.

With an impressive career spanning across 187 AFL games, Carlton fan favourite Brenden Fevola shared insights from his life,

emphasisingtheimportanceofsecondchances and perseverance.

“AGA’sFlipMyRideProgramisn’tjustabout teaching life skills, it’s about transforming lives. As someone who’s faced my share of challenges – I know the power of getting a second chance,” Fevola said.

Since the program’s inception, Flip My Ride has helped 33 participants into employment or further education.

Participants Bryson Cutajar and Sebastian Oliva both had history with Victoria Police when they were referred to the program. Reflecting on their experiences, 14-year-old Sebastiansaidhelikedworkingonthecarsand going on excursions. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Bryson said he learnt new skills which would help him in the future, “I really enjoyed having a meal and getting to know the other participants in the program as well,” he said. Each student graduated the program with a tool kit worth $900.

Former AFL player Brendan Fevola with 15-year-old Cody and AGA youth worker Jacob Wiliams at the Flip My Ride graduation on May 2. (Damjan Janevski) 404679_05

Striking a new chord

Musicians from across Melbourne’s inner west recently gathered at the Williamstown Town Hall for the first official performance of the Inner West Symphony Orchestra.

Since its inception in October last year, the orchestrahasseenaswellinitsranks,withmore than 60 musicians of varying ages and skill levels joining its ensemble. However, there’s ample space for more players, particularly in the string and percussion sections.

For many members, including principal flautist Kim Pearson from Keilor Downs, this marks a first return to orchestral playing after a hiatus spanning over a decade. By day, Pearson is a music therapist, and is relishing the opportunity to take on some serious orchestral works.

“When I first joined I was quite excited about the thought of having an orchestra in the western suburbs,” Pearson said.

Small acts make a big impact.

Recycling in

“I grew up in the south east, and there’s quite a lot of opportunities there for community music, but once I moved to the west I found it quite difficult to find similar opportunities.”

The orchestra’s debut concert showcased a repertoire ranging from the likes of Sibelius to Bizet, Tchaikovsky, and even featured compositions by local talent George Barsoum. Drawing an audience of more than 400 family and friends, the performance was met with resounding applause.

With sights set on their next concert in July, the orchestra is already immersed in preparing new repertoire, including Holst’s ’The Planets’ and Sibelius’s ’Finlandia’.

Rehearsing every Monday night at Footscray Primary School, the Inner West Symphony Orchestra invites aspiring musicians to join its ranks.

Details: www.iwso.com.au.

Briefs

Share your thoughts

Brimbank council is encouraging visitors to share their favourite places in Brimbank through an online survey. Council said it would like to know more about the people visiting Brimbank, and what they like to do while they’re in the municipality. The findings from this confidential five-minute online survey will be used to develop a new five-year Visitor Economy Strategy for Brimbank. Participants need to have visited Brimbank at least once in the last 12 months. Gold Class Double Passes to Village Cinemas Sunshine Marketplace will be given to 20 randomly selected participants. The survey will close on May 31. Details: experiencebrimbanksurvey.com.au

Highpoint assault

Police charged a Sunshine North teenager following an alleged assault in Maribyrnong on April 16. It is alleged a group of boys threatened two others, assaulted them and stole their phones at Highpoint Shopping Centre about 7.30pm. The two victims sustained minor injuries and did not require hospital treatment. The group allegedly fled the scene with the stolen phones and were last spotted on Rosamond Road. The 16-year-old Sunshine North boy was charged with robbery. The investigation remains ongoing to identify the other offenders involved.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Keilor Downs resident Kim Pearson performing at the Inner West Symphony Orchestra debut concert in April. (Supplied)

Twins need help to fulfill their nationals dream

It might seem like deja vu because the Twins Charter Little League Development Baseball Team has once again made it to nationals and needs the community’s help getting there.

This time last year, the team, made up of kids aged between 9-12 years old, found out it was on its way to Sydney to compete in the 2024 Australian Little League Baseball Championships.

Now it is back again, representing local clubs from north-west Melbourne, including Williamstown, Sunshine, Essendon, Preston and Fitzroy.

Twins Baseball Charter secretary and mum Amy Chrimes said the club team needs to raise $25,000 to fund the kids on their six day trip to Sydney.

Plan adopted to ‘revitalise’ Alfrieda Street

A plan for a “greener, safer and better-connected” Alfrieda Street has been adopted by Brimbank council.

The Alfrieda Street public realm master plan was adopted by council at its recent meeting and will guide future planning, design, maintenance and associated budget allocation for the development of the St Albans street.

The plan outlines the transformation of Alfrieda Street over the next decade, underpinned by sustainability principles and community-focused urban design.

Council said the master plan envisions Alfrieda Street as a vibrant community-focused corridor that prioritises pedestrians and active living, enhances public spaces, improves mobility and safety, creating safer pedestrian crossings,andbettercyclinginfrastructure.

The master plan aims to improve the design of Alfrieda Street from Main Road East to Taylors Road, including the potential for a civic walk in the St Albans Town Centre, which will include wider footpaths, outdoor dining and trading, more trees and greenery to increase tree canopy, seating, drinking fountains, bins for recycling, spaces for community gatherings and events, and easy access to car parking.

Another section includes a nature walk providing a green and water sensitive corridor with more trees and greenery, spaces for community events and gatherings, wider footpaths, outdoor dining and trading, connection to public transport, safer crossings, and adequate car parking.

The final section includes a neighbourhood walk to encourage walking, as well as increased tree canopy cover with more trees and greenery, increased pedestrian and cycling space, and improved public space amenities.

Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic said the master plan is an opportunity to revitalise Alfrieda Street, and create a “liveable and connected neighbourhood” in the centre of St Albans.

“Alfrieda Street is the commercial and cultural hub of St Albans, and improving these public spaces will support our community’s health and wellbeing, deliver a safe, welcoming and well-connected town centre for everyone to enjoy,” Cr Rasic said. All project timeframes are subject to council approval and budget allocations, as part of the annual budget process.

Council said the master plan has been informed by community engagement over the past three years with input from local businesses, industry and community members.

“With most of the kids being under 12, parents don’t feel comfortable sending their kids interstate without them, so this funding will go to support the families,” she said.

Ms Chrimes said participating in such a prestigious event comes with its financial challenges.

These include travel expenses, accommodation, food, uniforms, equipment andtournamentfeeswhichareexpectedtocost between $3500–$4500 per player.

“Last year we raised part of the funds required and the parents paid the rest,” she said.

“We had no idea how much it would cost last year so we didn’t have very long to raise the funds, this year we are more prepared and have

more time.

“Althoughtheydidn’twin,wethinktheywill do better this time because they have been and now they now know what it’s about and they have been training and preparing well.”

Ms Chrimes said any money raised will help the 13 boys make it to Sydney in time for June 5 to 10.

Details: https://shorturl.at/crty9

Details: https://shorturl.at/fzDP9

Tax cuts for every taxpayer

Twins Charter Little League Development Baseball Team. (Supplied)

Community volunteers bring galactic cheer out west

The Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s (JKWC)hospitalwasbuzzingwithexcitement on May 2, as it played host to a special visit from a community group of volunteers.

Volunteers from the 501st Legion were deckedoutintheiriconicStarWarscostumes, as they brought a galaxy of joy to the hospital for the May 4 celebrations, affectionately known as Star Wars Day.

While the COVID-19 pandemic had disrupted their previous visits, the group returned to JKWC with a mission to spread cheer. Their presence was a familiar sight, having graced the hospital’s halls in the past

with memorable encounters for both children and staff alike.

But the festivities didn’t stop with the 501st Legion alone. Collaborating with the Starlight Children’s Foundation captains and Ronald McDonald House family room volunteers, alongside the hospital’s own dedicated volunteers, bringing smiles to the children and brightening their day.

The volunteers’ itinerary spanned the hospital’s paediatric outpatients and children’s ward, a team effort just ahead of the upcoming National Volunteer Week from May 20-26.

Volunteers came together to brighten the days of sick children at the Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s hospital. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 404951

It was all smiles for Tiana, 6, as she was joined by Star Wars characters a resistance pilot, Jawa, a storm trooper and a droid.

Adhiraj, 5, with his new friend Jawa.

Support for food relief program

By Hannah Hammoud

The Duke Street Community House (DSCH) has continued to advocate its plight for food relief funding as the threat of closure hangs over its future.

Recently featured on 9News, DSCH acting manager Louis Beunder said the food relief program has gained significant visibility, sparking an outpouring of support from the community.

In the wake of the news coverage, the communityralliedbehindthecause,reaching out to the organisation with inquiries about

volunteering, donating, and offering other forms of assistance.

Mr Beunder said the response has been heart-warming,notingthatmanycommunity members reached out simply to express their sadness at the uncertain fate of the program.

“It’s been really nice to have received a lot of support, and at this stage there is no definitive outcome for our food relief program,“ he said.

In February this year, the DSCH shared with StarWeeklythat it’s food relief program operates without funding, and as demand for food relief continues to climb, the future of its

ADHD app wins award

University student Mason Cao has won Apple’s WWDC24 Swift Student Challenge, for the creation of an app designed to help those with ADHD.

The 20-year-old first discovered Swift programming as part of the Apple Foundation Program at RMIT while he was studying a bachelor of computer science.

Mr Cao said the app, MorningDew, is meant to help people with ADHD kick start their day and manage the many distractions mornings can bring.

“For most people when you wake up in the morning you feel groggy, tired and distracted, for people with ADHD it is 1000 times worse,” he said.

Using his own experiences with ADHD, Mr Caodesignedtheappinonlythreeweeks, with accessibility and inclusivity in mind to lessen the stigma around ADHD and show how those impacted can be just as high-functioning as

anyone else in the workforce.

“People with ADHD might start something just trying to get through your morning routine, but then other things take your attention,” he said.

“So MorningDew accompanies you on your morning routine, with alarm check ups and encouragement to keep you motivated and on thepathtogetupandrunningandgetoutwith as little time wasting as possible.”

This is the 13th year of a formal WWDC student program, which Apple created as an opportunityforstudentdeveloperstoshowcase their love of coding.

Mr Cao is one of the student developers from all over the world who submitted an entry to the challenge.

Hewillreceiveaone-yearmembershiptothe Apple Developer Program, a complimentary voucher to take an app development with Swift certification exam, and a gift from Apple.

program has become increasingly uncertain.

The DSCH offers the food relief service with a postcode restriction, accessible to locals living in the 3020, 3019 and 3012 postcodes through a ‘market-style’ service.

Although grateful for the generosity of community donations, Mr Beunder emphasised the need for sustainable support to ensure the program’s longevity. While every contribution, whether food or funds, is appreciated, it’s clear that substantial funding is required to secure the program’s future.

Forthosewillingtocontribute,MrBeunder provided multiple avenues for reaching out,

including email, the organisation’s website contact form, or a simple phone call.

“There are two main ways to support us. The first is to get in touch with your local representative and tell them about us and speak out in support of the program and support services as a whole, and hopefully those representatives will likely pass that message on,” he said.

“The second way is through donations, even small increments add up in the end and it will help assist us in the meantime to support the program.”

Details: https://dsch.org.au/

Mason Cao. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 402319_01

Mayor’s message

Cr Kathy Majdlik

The Plumpton Aquatic and Leisure Centre took a big step forward last month, when Councillors voted to approve a new draft masterplan for community consultation.

Hosting a range of activities not available elsewhere in our City, this state-of-the-art hub will transform the community, support health and provide space for local businesses.

The Centre will feature indoor pools, splash play areas, water slides, a sauna, sensory aquatic space, health and fitness areas, allied health spaces, change facilities, and commercial space.

Our innovative water sensory play area will be the first of its kind in Australia.

We’re also investigating whether an additional meeting space and a rooftop deck could be incorporated with an additional level. Now, we want to hear from you.

Council is seeking feedback on design themes, and how you can see yourself using the centre. Community response so far has been fantastic, with hundreds of residents telling us what they think about the draft masterplan. Feedback closes on 21 May.

We’re hosting the following pop-ups:

• Taylors Hill Youth and Community Centre: Wednesday 8 May 4pm – 6pm

• Taylors Hill Shopping Centre: Saturday 11 May 10am – 12pm

• CS Square: Saturday 11 May 2pm – 4pm

• Caroline Springs Library and Learning Hub: Friday 17 May 9am – 11am

To find out more, visit: conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/ plumptonaquatic

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

Melton Careers Expo

Explore new employment and training opportunities at the City of Melton Careers Expo.

Young people and job seekers can expect a huge raft of local, state-wide education and training providers and businesses providing information and looking to hire new talent.

The 2024 event will be held on Tuesday 28 May from 9.15am-2.30pm at Cobblebank Indoor Stadium.

Registrations for attendees and exhibitors are now open.

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

Rural Roads strategy

Residents are invited to have their say about the future of the City’s rural and former rural roads.

Rural, Interface and Growth Area Road Upgrade Strategy (RIGARUS) will review existing rural, growth area and interface roads, and identify areas that need to be improved.

The strategy will not include state or

federal roads, upgrades for roads in established areas or road duplications.

Feedback will inform where improvement is needed and help prioritise projects and upgrades.

Have your say: conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/ RIGARUS

Cambridge Ward with Cr Steve Abboushi

The Plumpton Aquatic and Leisure Centre will transform our community – and we want your thoughts on the state-ofthe-art facility.

The centre, to be built in Fraser Rise, will offer inclusive and accessible facilities which support a healthy, connected community. A range of different pools, play areas for the kids, health and fitness areas, allied health spaces and commercial space are just some of the features.

Council is seeking your feedback on the design themes, the importance of individual features and how you see

yourself using the centre. Residents can do this online or at a series of drop-in events. Visit conversations. melton.vic.gov.au/plumptonaquatic for the dates, times and venues.

The City of Melton is blessed with many fantastic parks and reserves, and we are always striving to make them better and more accessible. One of those is Earlington Square Reserve in Burnside where we are adding accessible play experiences for a broader range of ages, exercise equipment and extra picnic facilities.

The Parkway Reserve will see an improved footpath network, picnic

Free flu vaccines

Melton City Council’s immunisation team is providing free influenza vaccines for anyone eligible through the National Immunisation Program. Eligible people include:

• Children aged six months to under five years.

• Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy.

• People aged 65 years or over.

• First Nations people aged six months and over.

• People aged six months and over who have medical conditions putting them at higher risk of serious disease.

If you do not meet the eligibility requirements for the free vaccine, please speak to your GP or pharmacist for options.

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

facilities and expanded play area to include additional activities for older children and teens.

Finally, the upgrades to Cobblestone Green Reserve that include better paths, new play equipment and more trees are set to be finished this month.

Visit conversations.melton.vic.gov.au for more information on these and other projects.

Please feel free to contact me for Cambridge Ward or Council related issues on 0437 231 680 or steve. abboushi@melton.vic.gov.au, or like my Facebook page @AbbsMelton

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

Rise and run in the west

By Hannah Hammoud

Residents of the western suburbs have a new reason to lace up their shoes and hit the pavement, with the launch of a vibrant community initiative – the Western Suburbs Breakfast Run Club.

Spearheaded by local resident Montana Mercieca, the inaugural social run event took place on Sunday, April 28, marking the beginning of what promises to be a regular gathering for fitness enthusiasts of all levels.

Participants are invited to join at 8am, with the flexibility to run, jog, or walk at their own pace. Following the exercise session, attendees have the opportunity to unwind and socialise over coffee or brunch.

Ms Mercieca shared her inspiration for the initiative, emphasising the need for accessible fitness options in the western suburbs.

“Discovering how inaccessible run clubs were in our local municipal, and my personal quest for social fitness, was what ultimately inspired the breakfast run club initiative,” she said. “Whilst managing my demanding schedule, and having learnt early on in my careerasaprimaryhealthcarepractitioner,the sheerlackofsocialengagementresources,Iwas on a mission to propagate change.”

The Western Suburbs Breakfast Run Club is not just about physical fitness, it’s also a platformforsocialengagementandcommunity building.

“The main consideration when formulating the fitness group was factoring in an inclusive, welcoming environment for individuals of all physical capabilities based in the western suburbs of Melbourne,” Ms Mercieca said.

“After promptly recognising the demand for the initiative like breakfast run club, I was inspired to spread awareness of the group making it accessible to a broader community,

Montana Mercieca is inviting locals in the west to get their legs moving on Sunday mornings. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 402911_02

not Caroline Springs alone.”

With a commitment to accessibility and variety, the run club aims to rotate its meeting locations throughout the western suburbs,

ensuring that residents from all corners can take part in the initiative.

Details: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/406661072251060/

New school and cycle path

A suite of new infrastructure projects in Kororoithasbeenannouncedbythestate government to help more families access essential services close to home.

Kororoit will benefit from more than $27 million worth of projects funded throughtheGrowthAreasInfrastructure Contribution (GAIC) fund, aimed at supporting Victorian families in some of the state’s fastest growing suburbs.

Projects in Kororoit include, $15 million for a new government school in Rockbank North, $11 million for a new shared user path along Hopkins Road and $1.3 million for active transport connections along Taylors Road.

Thestategovernmentisinvestingatotal of $400 million into 37 infrastructure projects across Cardinia, Casey, Hume, Melton, Mitchell, Whittlesea and Wyndham local government areas through the GAIC fund.

These projects complement the more than $685 million worth of initiatives already delivered across Melbourne’s growth areas through the GAIC fund –includingambulancesites,parks,schools and public transport.

The GAIC fund is a one-off contribution payable by landowners developing land that has been zoned for urban use and development in these specific local government areas.

“We’re building new schools and more cycling and walking paths to ensure our growing communities can access jobs, schools and services they deserve,” Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch said. Details: https://shorturl.at/lsyMV

Second chance at an AFL dream

After missing out on fulfilling a childhood dream in last year’s AFL draft, young guns from Melbourne’s west aren’t giving up just yet, and are putting their hands up at a lifeline this mid-season draft. Gerald Lynch speaks with the talented stars about dealing with setbacks and earning a second chance.

While most kids grow up dreaming of pulling on the colours of their favourite football team, only very few are granted the opportunity to do so.

For Lachlan McArthur, a big GWS Giants supporter and a star Western Jet, falling just short has only motivated him more.

“I was obviously a bit flat initially but got some good feedback which kick-started the preseason and had a lot of support around me helping me get better and better,” he said.

“My last year was a bit different to some, I found like I blossomed a bit later than many others which didn’t give me enough time to showcase all traits as a halfback … yeah there was some interest late which got me a combine invite which was a valuable experience, although it didn’t fall my way.

“I got invited to Footscray (VFL) where I did the majority of the preseason and just honed in on what the feedback was and focused on thingsIwantedtobettereachandeverysession whileusingtheresourcestheretoaskquestions and get guidance from surrounding the more technical side of the game.

“It’s a bit different training with the bigger bodies there, they hit harder and the sessions are of higher intensity, but you gain a lot of knowledge working with them.

“Guys like Trent Bianco who has just come off an AFL list … you can sort of just watch how they work and take little bits off them to get better.”

For McArthur, coming fresh out of school and being overlooked in the draft meant he needed to find a way to fill the time. He is working part-time at Melbourne Airport as a baggage handler for the time being, but his career aspirations if footy doesn’t work out are firmly surrounding sport.

“Down the track I wouldn’t mind going to uni and equipping myself with some further skills in business and sports science, which could benefit me outside of football and also throughout football with learning more about the body and how to manipulate it to get the most out of it,” he said.

A utility player who prefers to be in defence, McArthur described his game as being emulated on two Giants stars in Lachie Whitfield and Lachie Ash, “their run and gun off half back and their very neat foot skills” are the traits he embodies and admires.

However, he feels he didn’t get to best showcase his ability in the Young Guns series, but is hopeful he showed signs of his talent.

“I’m very grateful for being a part of them [Young Guns matches] and that group,” he said.

“I thought I was definitely much better in the first game then the second though I showed

some glimpses in both games. Ultimately though I think I’m better playing halfback and didn’t get a full run in that position which isn’t great but I thought I did well playing forward.”

ForAFLclubswithlistspotsintheupcoming mid-season draft looking for some class and poise, it seems they don’t need to look further than Melbourne’s west, as Calder Cannon Ryan Brodie plays a similar brand to his Young Gun counterpart.

“I try to liken myself to someone like Lachie Whitfield, who produces good movement off the half back line and uses the ball really well,” he said, as I felt a looming sense of deja vu.

“Yeah, missing out on last year’s draft was a bit disappointing but it didn’t really affect me too much as you sort of get a fair idea leading up to it.

“I seemed to deal with it pretty well, where the Calder Cannons told me they would take me on as a 19-year-old player giving me an

opportunity to have another crack at Coates League level which was pretty exciting.

“The group seemed to gel really well together having not known each other up until our first game which made it really enjoyable. For me personally, I just tried to bring my strengths to the games such as run and carry as-well as kicking which I was pretty happy with.

“Being involved in the young guns series was another exciting experience, being selected to play amongst some of the best around Victoria.

“As of right now, I’m just working in retail andmakingmywayaroundfootball,whereI’m thinking of going into university in exercise sciencetotrytostaywithinthesportsindustry, but I’m not 100 per cent yet.”

The Young Guns program has been running since 2022, and it has been successful in putting young talent into the eye-line of recruiters, including Massimo D’Ambrosio, a former Western Jet who now plies his trade for

Hawthorn.

“Seeing guys like D’Ambrosio get drafted through the same pathway I’m currently in does give me good confidence that I can still have a good crack at making the AFL even if it may not be the traditional way,” Brodie said. Oskar Smartt is also a chance to be selected, after the Keilor Football Club local impressed in the Young Guns series, and holds a spot on Essendon’s VFL list.

The mid-season draft is on Wednesday, May 29, with 16 list spots up for grabs, should clubs elect to use them.

Locally, Carlton, North Melbourne, and Richmond have two picks, and Collingwood, Essendon, Melbourne, and the Western Bulldogs have one each.

However, a move interstate could be possible for the boys, with Adelaide and Brisbane holding two picks each, and Fremantle and Gold Coast also having one.

Lachlan McArthur, Ryan Brodie and Oskar Smartt representing the Young Guns. (Pictures: Rob Lawson and Josh Chadwick/AFL Photos)

MY PLACE

Brimbank local and disability advocate, Despina Havelas, chats to Hannah Hammoud about her connection to the community.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?

I am a passionate disability advocate and community member. I am a mother of two young adults and my husband, Chris, is a local scrapper. I love meeting and getting to know what’s happening in my local community. I am also a passionate carer that is fortunate to improve the quality of life for others in my community. I have worked with many community groups and individuals to advance the rights of people with a disabilities and carers. Human rights matter.

What is your connection to Brimbank? My husband is local to Brimbank growing up and I now call Brimbank my home for nearly 25 years. I’m lucky to connect with so many local community members. I was the founder of an autism group for over 10 years, called Autism Angels.

What do you like about where you live?

I like the walking paths near my home. Walking and meeting other locals that live in my area. Health and fitness is important to help us all feel connected. I love the new Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre.

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

I would love to see more local youth programs that connects members of our community to mentor our youth. I was disappointed to find out that there is no room for a carers hub within the Brimbank Aquatic Centre. Carers give so much to others and this space would have made a difference to many local carers.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

The coffee shop, Taylor Café at Keilor Downs

Plaza. The food is tasty and the bonus is the friendly staff and service you get. It is also convenient when a coffee shop is open earlier than the standard 9am opening hours. You get to fit more in your day.

Tell us something people would be surprised

to know about you?

That I was a designer/ dressmaker in bridal wear in my earlier years. I still have strong connection with art.

What change do you hope to create as a local disability advocate?

To continue to connect more families to more local programs and to help them access local services for convenience. Isolation is terrible and with the increase in mental health in our community we need to be more caring and compassionate for each other. That there is always hope and we all can be compassionate.

The return of Walking football to the Keilor Basketball Netball Stadium has been a hit among locals.

Walking football is a fun and inclusive way to stay active, and an opportunity for community members to enjoy a modified version of soccer offering a low-impact way to engage with the sport.

The program emphasises enjoyment over competition and encourages participants to reap the physical and mental health benefits of staying active.

Designed for individuals over 50, though open to all ages, Football Victoria’s walking

football program invites everyone to join in the fun.

The game’s rules ensure safety and comfort, with a focus on keeping one foot on the ground at all times, maintaining a non-contact environment, and avoiding high kicks or heading the ball.

The walking football program takes place every Wednesday at the Keilor Basketball Netball Stadium, 135 Stadium Drive, Keilor Park, from 1-2pm.

Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski stopped by at one of the recent sessions on May 1, to capture all of the action.

Helps

From seasoned players to newcomers, walking football welcomes all to enjoy the sport in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 404722

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

All abilities workshops

Join the Duke Street Community House for free workshops filled with fun and engaging activities and informative sessions alongside a supportive and inclusive community. Workshops range from nutrition, art therapy, wellness and fitness, financial support, mental health and sustainable planting. Workshops are held weekly on Thursdays, from 10am-12.15pm, until June 20.

Clothing repair workshop

Bring along clothing in need of repair to this upcycling workshop hosted by the Kororoit Creek Neighbourhood House on May 11, from 2-4pm. Techniques taught in the workshop are best suited to woven (not stretchy) garments.

■ https://events.brimbank.vic.gov.au/ clothing-repair-workshop/

Women’s only conversation English Make friends, learn new skills and practice English in this fun and free women’s social group. Tuesdays during school terms, 9.30am-noon, at the Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.

■ 9311 9973 or dukest@dsch.org.au

Crafternoons

A free adult social opportunity to get together and be creative. Learn a new craft or bring along your own craft projects. Tuesdays during school terms, 12.30-2.30pm, at the Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.

■ 9311 9973 or dukest@dsch.org.au

Learn to relax

IPC Health is inviting locals to attend a free six-week program offering an introduction into different aspects of relaxation. Learn to relax provides free support for people aged 18 and over who are interested in learning how to relax and ways to effectively manage their stress. Located at IPC Health Deer Park, 106 Station Road, Deer Park, this group will run, from 10.30-11.30am, every Thursday until June 6. Registration is essential.

■ livingwell@ipchealth.com.au or 1300 472 432

Seniors’ lunch

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

■ Pamela, pcostello46@hotmail.com

Black Powder Mill open day

There will be a free open day at the Black Powder Mill on Saturday, May 11, from 10.30am-3.30pm, at the corner of Parklea Avenue and Grassy Point Road, Cairnlea.

Junior soccer

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

■ theclub@sunshineheightsjsc.com.au

Girl Guides

Brimbank District Girl Guides is inviting locals to come and try guides before committing to join. Girls aged 5-18 and

adults are invited to enjoy the fun and friendship of guiding.

■ Carolyn, 0418 536 084

Sunshine Repair Cafe

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

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

Al-Anon Family Groups

Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. Confidential meetings held at the Sydenham Neighbourhood Centre (rear of library) every Wednesday from 1-2:30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary.

Card games

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

■ Leisa, 0425 768 808

Keilor Day View Club

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

■ Robyn, 0425 387 880

Palliative volunteers needed Mercy Palliative Care is looking for

volunteers to visit palliative care patients in their homes to offer social support.

■ 9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au

Deer Park Lions Club

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

■ Michael, 0417 307 572

Sunshine Community Brass

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

■ Andrew, 0419 444 620

St Albans senior citizens

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

■ Roma, 0435 991 064

Sunrise Social Groups

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

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

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

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

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

Melton Bridge Club

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

■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club

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

■ Ann, 0425 705 150

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Maombi Bongwa (front) Frances Sesay (back) with their handmade tote bags. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 403140_08

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number

ACROSS

1 Kitchenware (4)

3 AD (4,6) 10 Non-professional (7)

11 Japanese paper folding (7)

12 A sweet cold drink (8)

13 Excuse (5)

14 Spindle (4)

15 Agitated (10)

18 Gratification (10)

20 Duster (4)

21 Adage (5)

23 Ponder (8)

26 US state (7)

27 Pirate’s sword (7)

28 Child of one’s child (10)

29 Principal (4)

DOWN

1 Worship (4)

2 Journeyed (9)

4 Account of events (9)

5 Layer that absorbs most of the sun’s UV radiation (5)

6 Largest of the Ryukyu Islands, south of Japan (7)

7 Baghdad native (5)

8 Started (9)

9 Note (4)

14 Annoying (9)

16 Relating to a specific discipline (9)

17 Neighbour of Mexico (9)

19 Member of ancient Germanic tribe (7)

22 Country (5)

23 Collision of one or more vehicles (5)

24 Very small amount (4)

25 Book ID (1,1,1,1)

5

9 words: Good 13 words: Very good 18 words: Excellent Today’s Aim:

1 Which country does soy sauce originate from?

2

Endless Summer Vacation is a

album by which singer? 5 Which 2003 film stars Julia Roberts, Kirsten Dunst and Julia Stiles (pictured)?

True or false:

No.

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 6/10

Safety: 8/10

Thirst: 7/10

Practicality: 7/10

Comfort: 8/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 8/10

Well equipped and keenly priced

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Launched here in 2004, the small Cerato hatch or sedan has been one of Kia’s biggest sellers, often sharing the Australian sales podium alongside Toyota Corolla, Hyundai i30 and Mazda3.

The current, fourth generation, Cerato has been on sale here since 2018 with an upgrade in 2021 adding new tech features as well as the fresh new Kia logo.

The next generation Cerato is due early in 2025 but it will be given a name change, adopting the global name of K4.

Let’s hope that Kia doesn’t face the same negative buyer reaction that Nissan did back in 2006 when, under instructions from its Tokyo head office, the popular and well-established Pulsar nameplate was dropped and replaced by the unknown Tiida leaving potential buyers either confused, angry, or both

We don’t anticipate that happening with the Cerato/K4 change. Kia has one of the smartest marketing teams in the business, as shown by its brilliant sporting superstar advert for the upcoming Tasman ute.

But, enough about the future, the Cerato remains on sale now as an excellent alternative in its small hatch/sedan category.

It comes with the choice of four variants: S, Sport, Sport + and GT, all with either five-door hatchback or four-door sedan bodies. Prices rangefrom$27,060fortheSthroughto$36,860 for the GT. There’s no difference between the hatch and sedan.

Don’t get too excited about the use of the Sport and Sports + name. Both models get the same 2.0-litre petrol engine with the same modest outputs as the S. Sport and Sport+ do get 17-inch alloy wheels while the S has 16-inch steels.

Our test vehicle was the Sport + hatch.

Styling

The 2021 Cerato upgrade was one of the first models to get the new stylised badge which has now spread across the Kia range.

Other new features include a revised headlamp design extending the grille pattern out to the car’s flanks, the reworked front bumper adding a sleek sporty character.

Front foglamps are slotted into the air intake grille, sharpening the looks up front. In profile the Cerato hatch is a model of restraint, with one exception, An alternative design for the 17-inch alloy wheels differentiates the Sport and Sport + from the rest of the range.

At the rear the exhaust has been concealed for an up-to-date hatchback appearance.

Drivelines

Cerato S, Sport and Sport+ are powered by a 2.0-litre,four-cylinderpetrolengineproducing 112 kW and 192 Nm, while the GT comes with a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder motor with 150 kW and 265 Nm.

The 2.0-litre engine is paired to a six-speed automatic while the GT’s turbo engine gets a double-clutch (DCT) seven-speed auto.

Minimal sales saw the demise of the previous six-speed manual gearbox at the 2021 upgrade.

Interior

Kia Cerato has a well-designed and practical interior with everything in the right place.

There’sreasonablerearlegroomalthoughthe sunroof in the GT does limit head space.

Rear seat occupants also get a fold down

armrest with cup holders, USB socket and air vents.

Sport+ has leather-appointed seats, heated upfront, that are comfortable without being supportive in a lateral context.

Other carryover features include electrochromic mirror, and power exterior folding mirrors, soft-touch trim, illuminated glovebox and passenger-side seat-back pocket. Luggage space with the rear seatbacks folded is 428 litres in the hatch and 502 litres in the sedan.

Infotainment

Standard across the Cerato range are a 10.25-inch audio-visual unit with an LCD screen and a 4.2-inch TFT LCD cluster.

The latter displays information such as drive mode (normal, eco, sport, smart), average and instantaneous fuel consumption, trip meter andodometer,fuelrange,lanekeepassiststatus driver attention level and compass bearing.

Built-in satellite navigation, with 10-year MapCareandSUNAtrafficupdates,alsoallows access to DAB digital radio, voice recognition, wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, plus the dial-up soothing Sounds of Nature.

To maintain occupant aural pleasure all round, a rear-seat sleep mode can be called on to limit the speaker level in the back for occupantstoenjoyamorerestfulenvironment.

Safety

Ceratocomeswithacomprehensivelistofsafety features that include six airbags, enhanced ABS brakes, stability control, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane follow assist, lane departure warning and driver attention alert.

Therearealsofrontandrearparkingsensors, high beam assist; reversing camera; and two IsoFix child seat anchor points.

Sport + and GT add blind spot recognition; blind spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross traffic alert, safe exit warning; and enhanced AEB to include pedestrian and cyclist recognition.

Anoptional$1000SafetyPackisavailablefor theSandSportmodelsthataddsaCyclistAEB, electronic parking brake; blind spot detection; and rear cross traffic alert.

Driving

As mentioned previously, performance from the 2.0-litre models is only modest but it’s the same story with its direct competitors. Zero to 100 km/h is just under 10 seconds.

It’s left to the GT with 1.6-litre turbo power to carry the sporty flag, with the speed from a standstill coming up in roughly seven seconds. Ride and handling remain pleasantly unchanged, with the Sport + keeping the tried-and-true McPherson Strut front end and couple torsion beam axle at the back tuned especially for Australia by our own engineers.

Suspension is reasonably supple, though rough Aussie country roads can occasionally troubleit.Noiseandvibrationarewelldamped.

The latest Korean models are almost up with the Europeans due to their driving dynamics being uprated to suit Australian drivers’ tastes.

Steering provides a quick response from good feedback.

Fuel consumption from the 2.0-litre engine is listed as 7.4 litres per 100 kilometres in the combined urban / highway cycle. We averaged 8.3 L/100km during our week-long test of the Sport + hatch.

Summing up

Cerato has played a significant part in the spectacular rise of Kia in Australia over the past decade or so. It’s been the brand’s best-selling model for much of that time and still, despite the current model due for imminent replacement, sitting in second place behind the Sportage SUV.

The modest performance isn’t especially important to most of its owners who just want a compact, affordable and reliable vehicle.

TheupcomingK4willalmostcertainlycome with a significant price hike so it might be an opportune time to check out the Cerato and do a bit of haggling with your local dealer.

Cerato has played a significant part in the spectacular rise of Kia in Australia over the past decade. (Pictures: Supplied)

Warrick signs on with Gorillas for two seasons

New Grand United coach Andrew Warrick is looking forward to a fresh challenge.

The Gorillas announced Warrick as senior coach for the next two Victorian Turf Cricket Association seasons.

He joins the club from Golden Point in the Ballarat Cricket Association where he has previously led the club to premiership success and has been one of league’s top performers with ball in hand for many years.

He also has Victorian Premier Cricket experience where he previously played for Essendon in the first and second XIs.

Warrick said having done a lot of travelling to coach at Golden Point it was nice to be able to coach closer to the home, being based in Melbourne.

“It’s a bit of a fresh challenge,” he said. “I’m looking forward to getting down there.

“I know Alan and Jack Hale. I worked with Alan [Grand United president] and I did a bit of coaching at their club through the Australian Cricket Institute.

“My wife and I just had a baby and it was a big time commitment driving to Ballarat a couple of times a week.

“Grand United made a good pitch and it was a good opportunity.”

Warrick says he knows a little bit about the club coming into the role and would start meeting the majority of the playing group the next few weeks.

He said he’s keen to build on what the club has been able to do the last few years. The Gorillas finished runners-up in the division 2 competition in the 2023-24 season after winning the division 3 title the season before.

The club has played off in three straight

grand finals.

“The last couple of years they’ve had a good young group,” he said. “The first and second XI are hungry for success.

“I can bring in a bit more experience to the group and help take the next step. The club is looking forward to having a bit of consistency with a coach in place that can bring in a few different ideas to training and game day.”

Warrick will be a playing coach which will help strengthen the Gorillas bowling unit.

He said there were others at the club talking to existing and new players in regards to what the squad looks like next season.

Warrick said they would look to start pre-season in August and then start to ramp things up.

Tara Murray

Solid start for Westvale

By Tara Murray

A packed road schedule has been a challenge but it hasn’t shown in the results for Westvale in the FV state league 2 competition.

With six of its first eight games on the road and having made it through to the fifth round of the Australia Cup, Westvale has done a lot of miles already this season.

With the exception of a loss to Keilor Park in the previous round, coach Bill Georgopoulos has been pretty happy.

The club had four wins from its first five games, having scored a massive 20 goals.

“We’ve started off pretty well,” he said. “It’s a long season though and there’s still a long way to go.

“We’ve got three away games coming up in the next three weeks. We’ve already played in Shepparton and Dandenong and had a few injuries.

“It has been challenging.”

Georgopoulos said he was unsure why they

had so many road games early in the season but it means at the back end of the season they will finish with the majority at home.

He said they set themselves a pass mark of 16 points after the first eight games, with the side having achieved 12 after five rounds.

“Hopefully we can go a bit better than last year when we finished in fifth,” he said. “The goal is always to finish better than the year before.

“We are still a fairly young side which isn’t always easy as there is some inconsistency.”

Georgopoulos said having been in state league 2 last season does help the side for those who are still at the club and preparing for who they play.

The side though is completely changed to last season.

“We’ve managed to bring in a few boys from other countries,” he said. “They’ve come to Australia and signed with us and that always helps,

“There’s only seven boys from last year. We

Surey departs the Knights

Melbourne Knights poor start to the National Premier League season has seen the club sack its coaches.

After the Knights’ loss to Oakleigh Cannons on Friday night, the Knights made the call to change its coaches.

“The Melbourne Knights Football Club would like to announce that it has made the difficult decision to part ways with head coach Ben Surey and assistant coachCraigMooreeffectiveimmediately.

“After over a decade of service to the Club, including as a senior men’s player and captain, junior’s technical director, assistant coach and more recently head coach, we sincerely thank Ben for his service and dedication to our club over the years and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

“Staytunedforfurtherannouncements to follow regarding the head and assistant coaches replacements.“

Surey took over as coach from Ben Cahn who moved north to take on the role of coach at A-League side, Brisbane Roar. He has since departed the Roar. Surey played for the Knights for nine seasons before serving as the club’s under 20’s coach, as well as being caretaker coach on two occasions.

In the lead up to the Cannons coach, Surey told Star Weekly that they hadn’t been far off getting a couple of wins in recent weeks, but couldn’t make the most of their opportunities.

He said the vibe around the group had remained really strong and they needed to keep going through the processes and be honest with each other.

Moore has since been appointed Werribee City’s coach after it parted ways with coach Domenic Barba.

kept the core but I’m always looking to bring in other younger players.

“Our average age is 22 and half or 23, we are a very young team. We punch above our weight with the resources available.”

?? said the opportunity to play National Premier League side Oakleigh Cannons had been massive for the club.

He said while they had fallen short in the Australia Cup, losing 5-1, they had their opportunity to have the scores 2-2 at one stage.

“Once they got their third goal, I put on a few youngsters off the bench to restrict the minutes of a few players,“ Georgopoulos said.

Westvale was set to play the Whittlesea Ranges on Friday night in round six after deadline.

Having been sent from the field against Keilor Park, Georgopoulos was expecting to miss the match through suspension.

“Whittlesea Ranges are in third spot, two points behind us,” he said. “They are one of the bigger sides in the competition.”

Ben Surey.

(Supplied)

New Grand United coach Andrew Warrick (right). (Supplied)

Farhan Farah (right) is one player who has returned for Westvale. (Joe Mastroianni) 322193_04

Falcons continue to win

By Tara Murray

The City West Falcons continued on their winning ways with a big win against the Casey Demons in the Victorian Netball League championship on Wednesday night.

The Falcons piled on the goals early on and were able to continue that throughout the high scoring affair.

With the game in control at half time, the Falcons rotated their players to continue to try different combinations.

While the Demons won the final quarter, the match was well and truly over, with the Falcons winning 87-68.

Falcons coach Marg Lind was pretty happy with the performance.

“We got 25 goals in the first quarter and I think that is what set it up,” she said.

“I sent a message out today [Wednesday] and it was that we’ve got to get off to a good start.

“I don’t think we could ask too much more and they’re always going to score a bit within the Emma Ryde-Coad.

“So you’re going to have to anticipate they’re going to get a high score. she’s hard to beat.”

Lind said the good start had allowed them to rotate players a bit and get players some court time.

Chelsea Imansani played big minutes at wing attack, while Jenna Ogier played her most minutes this season at goal attack.

Jane Cook finished with a massive 71 goals for the game and played a strong game in goal shooter.

Lind was happy with what she saw from Soli Ropati when she moved into wing attack in the second half.

The Falcons have one injury concern out to come out of the match, with skipper Maggie Lind coming off in the first quarter.

Marg Lind said her daughter had a tight calf and wasn’t feeling fantastic, so they made the call not to risk her after such a great start.

“She called it,” Lind said.

“It was good to give Chelsea a run there and I think they did OK.”

The Falcons are also preparing for Shimona Jok not to be playing much with them.

Jok was called into the Mavericks match day 10 for their Suncorp Super Netball clash against the West Coast Fever and did a really good job. She wasn’t with the Falcons against the Demons.

The Falcons move up to second on the ladder with the North East Blaze having a loss.

The under-23s returned to the winners list

after two straight losses, beating the Demons, 50-39.

The Falcons led in the first half before the Demons took the front late in the contest.

It was the Falcons that settled late in the scrappy game to win, 50-39.

Lind said they were starting to find the right combinations in the end.

“Holly[Adams-Alcock]andLani[Fauonuku] in goals looked pretty good,” she said. “I

Devils look to improve

Everything that could go wrong has gone for Keilor Park in the early part of the Essendon District Football League division 1 season.

The Devils have lost their first four matches and struggled at times to match it with other sides.

Football manager Scott Kempster said it has been a tough period to start the season.

“It hasn’t been great,” he said. ”We started the season underdone to be fair, with a lot of new players who hadn’t had a lot of sessions together.

“We knew the first game would be tough and we struggled a lot with cohesion and synergy.

“Since then it has all gone pear shaped. Out ofthatside12playershavebeenoutwithinjury.

“The Rupo [Rupertswood] game was a disaster,welostsevenplayersoutofthatgame.”

Compounding the injuries is the departures of Kyall Parker and Oscar Sasalu since the season has started. Parker has returned to his former club while Sasalu wanted to play at a higher level having made Williamstown’s Victorian Football League list.

Kempster said they had shown some good signs against Roxburgh Park and Tullamarine but hadn’t been able to put it all together.

He said they had shown an improvement in effort and were hoping to see some better

results on the scoreboard.

“We’ll get a few back from injury in the next three to four weeks and we should improve in the second half of the season,“ he said.

“Hopefully we’ll see a more consistent effort and see the players gel a bit better. It’s not the start that we wanted, but it’s a long season and we’ve got two-thirds of a season to show improvement.

“Every team goes through these bad runs, ours is just at the start of the season.“

The Devils had a much needed bye on the weekend.

Kempster said they had several sore players after Anzac Day and it was a good opportunity to freshen up.

He said the coaching staff were still really positive and hoping to turn things around.

Ithasn’tbeenallbadnewsfortheDevilswith their women’s side being really competitive in their return to the competition.

On Anzac Day the side got their first win of the season beating Tullamarine.

Kempster said that win will give them some confidence.

The Devils men this week face a big test this week against Maribyrnong Park.

Tara Murray

Eagles, Cavs, Saints through

North Sunshine Eagles, Green Gully and St Albans Saints’ Australia Cup journeys will continue into the sixth round, while Western Suburbs and Sydenham Park’s came to an end.

The conclusion of the round five matches occurred last week to decide the final 10 teams of the Victorian stage.

The Eagles faced fellow Brimbank side Western Suburbs on Tuesday night.

State league side Western Suburbs openedthescoringinthefirsthalf,before the goals scored twice in the second half to claim a 2-1 win.

Yusuf Karadag and Redouane Sarakh scored for the Eagles, while Tatsuhiro Takezaki was the goal scorer for Western Suburbs.

Sydenham Park’s run came to an end against Preston Lions.

Scores were locked at 0-0 at the end of regular time before the Lions scored twice in extra time to win 2-0 and move on to the next round.

The following night Green Gully and St Albans both won through to the sixth round.

The Cavaliers had a dominant performance against Ballarat.

Eiloan Kifle opened the scoring before Jamie Latham and Mo Adam scored before half time to give the Cavaliers a 3-0 lead.

Adam scored a second in the second half to complete a 4-0 win.

The Saints faced East Bentleigh. It was East Bentleigh that opened the scoring in the 25th minute through Josh Oresti.

The Saints then hit back through Scott Bakkor in the 36th minute and two minutes later he gave his side the lead.

ALukeCabrajagoalinthe90thminute was the icing on the cake in a 3-1 win.

thought they were going to do that at half time and they didn’t and I was like come on,

“They’ve probably played top four teams the last couple of weeks. They couldn’t drop this one tonight, as they probably shouldn’t have dropped Peninsula.

“There’s a bit of potential there.”

The Falcons face the Wilson Storage Southern Saints this week in what Lind said would be another good test.

The draw for the sixth round had already been completed with the Cavaliers to face the Saints.

Caroline Springs George Cross, which won through the previous week, will face Altona City and North Sunshine Eagles will play Avondale.

The winners of the sixth stage will go ontothenationalpartofthecompetition.

Ben Chisholm. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 333186_73

Soli Ropati. (Robbab Photography)

Celebrations all round for Howitt

It was somewhat fitting that North Sunshine’s Cameron Howitt played his 300th career game against Albion on Saturday.

While the Western Football League division 2 clash was a one-sided affair with Albion getting the win, both clubs celebrated Howitt’s achievement.

And both clubs are close to his heart.

“I started at Albion when I was eight and played in the under-10s,” Howitt said before the milestone. “I played 160 games for Albion.

“I will now have played 140 with North Sunshine since joining in 2013. I only found recently from my uncle who is an Albion legend that my 300 falls when North Sunshine faces Albion.

“I couldn’t believe it.”

Howitt said there are seven or eight players from when he started playing at Albion who will be on the opposition side, including Josh

Bench and Dylan Sloman.

ItwasaweirdfeelingforHowitthavingnever played against Albion with the two sides in different divisions until this year.

He still knows 90 per cent of people at the club and is regularly at the club.

ForHowittthemovetotheRoadrunnerswas meant to be only for a year.

Now he couldn’t see himself going anywhere else.

“My mate got me to come across in 2013 to play with him and a couple of boys,” he said.

“It was going to be a one year thing and then I was going back to Albion.

“ItturnedoutIlovedNorthSunshine.There’s been a lot of bad times on the scoreboard but things are on the up.

Howittsaidit’shardtodescribewhyhekeeps staying at the Roadrunners but said they feel like there are positive times ahead.

“The club is given nothing,” he said. “A lot of people leave and then come back a few years later.Wecan’tpaywhatotherscananditmakes it hard to keep them.”

Aswellasbeingaplayer,Howitthastakenon adrivingroleintheclub’sjuniorprogram.One personhehasgotdoneonanumberofoccasions to help out is his great mate, Collingwood premiership player Will Hoskin-Elliott.

Howitt got involved with getting the juniors going in 2018 and it’s got him even further involved at the Roadrunners.

“I want to be there the day we play finals,” he said. “I want to see us having under-8s through to under-18s and seniors.

“That is what keeps me going. We have under-8s, and under-10s at the moment hopefully we will have under-12s next year and build on that.”

Tough night for Thunder

By Tara Murray

An understrength Keilor Thunder had a tough night out against the Ballarat Miners on Saturday night in the National Basketball League 1 South.

Already missing New Zealander Tera Reed, the Thunder were dealt another blow leading up to the game, with Opals squad member Maddy Rocci hurting her ankle at training on Thursday night.

While the Thunder were missing their stars, the Miners had a night out in a 90-72 win. A Miners win never looked in doubt after they led 25-17 at the first break.

Thunder coach Kristi Harrower said it was a tough night for the group.

“They were really good opposition,” Harrower said. “They have three legit WNBL starters that can play great basketball.

“Chloe Bibby is in the Australian squad and it was really tough for us. Injuries to two of our main players made it hard.

“They were an experienced group and we couldn’t stop them on the night.”

Harrower said they spoke about the Miners three stars before the game started but weren’t able to stop any of them.

Chloe Bibby, Abigail Wehrung and Mehryn Kraker scored 85 of the Miners’ 90 points such was their dominance.

Harrower said they were able to go on some runs, but weren’t able to do it for long enough.

Harrower said the loss of Rocci hurt with not only her playing ability but also her leadership and experience on the floor.

“As much as we have a great team, we have a young team,” she said. “Izzy Bourne is only 23 and she had a bad night.

“The two Lilys [Lilly Rotunno and Lily Carmody] are only 18 and 20 and Grace [Graham] is only 20.

“They are a young group that is inexperienced facing an experienced team.”

Harrower said the experience though would help the younger players grow as they get the opportunity to see what it is like to play at the next level.

Penina Davidson was the standout for the Thunder in the loss with 35 points.

Sports shorts

Basketball

Keilor Thunder’s Kuany Kuany has been named in the South Sudan Olympic basketball squad. A 50 man squad was named with the Thunder star set to play a key role in the final team. Kuany has been captain of the side in recent years. Former Longhorns basketballers, who have been abased at Braybrook, including Jackson Makoi, Deng Adel, Achor Achor and Mangok Mathiang are also part of the squad.

Bowls

Deer Park Club has announced its line up for the upcoming Victorian Bowls League. The side combines a mix of the sport’s household names that collectively hold the rights to a number of state, national, commonwealth and world titles. Current Deer Park representatives Matthew Baus, Nathan Bush and Mark Casey along with new signing Brenton Coad and New Zealand’s Ali Forsyth will represent the Parkers at the VBL.

Netball

“She was big on the offensive end,” Harrower said. “She carried the team and was big for us.”

The loss has the Thunder sitting in third spot with seven wins and two losses.

Harrower said they were hopeful Reed would be back in a couple of weeks, while they were expecting Rocci to miss two to three weeks.

Now having played five rounds, Harrower said they have an idea of where they sit in the competition.

“I think we are up there, that’s for sure,” she said. “There are some things we need to put in place, it’s about finding the time.

“Hopefully get through these injuries and we can still be competitive.”

The Thunder men also lost to the Miners on Saturday night.

The Miners led from start to finish in the 113-83 win.

The Thunder now sit ninth on the ladder with five wins and four losses.

The Thunder teams this week face Dandenong Rangers on Saturday night.

Westside Saints’ Amalani Fauonuku has been named in the Australian netball under-17 squad. The teenager was picked in the squad following her performances at the national championships earlier this year. She is one of 36 athletes picked in the initial squad and will participate in a training camp in July at the Australian Institute of Sport. For Fauonuku, the news she made the squad came as a huge shock especially as she is bottom age. For more, head to www.starweekly. com.au.

VTCA

Sunshine United has appointed James Muirhead as captain-coach for next season. Muirhead, who joins the club from Newport-Digman, played premier cricket with St Kilda and Footscray, before also featuring in the BBL for the Adelaide Strikers, Melbourne Stars and later earned an international callup to debut for Australia against England during the 2013-14 summer.

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