Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 28th May 2024

Thousands of Australians have been walking 7000 steps a day this May to raise awareness and acceptance for the 70 per cent of autistic people who experience mental health issues.

Aspect’s annual ’Walk for Autism’ fundraising campaign, now in its ninth year, has raised more than $7.7 million to support the estimated one in 40 Australians on the autism spectrum.

Caroline Springs couple Aaron Lee and Jade Rameka are participating for the first time, walking their 7000 steps each day and raising more than $900 so far. Their daughter, Kaia, was diagnosed with autism earlier this year, making the cause deeply personal.

“It is something that is really close to our hearts and we thought raising awareness around it is a really positive cause,” Jade said.

Aaron said the first week of May was tough but he continued to clock up his 7000 steps a day.

“I also work in warehousing where I do the same amount of steps but I just tried to push past those boundaries and remind myself that I’m doing this for my daughter,” he said.

To make a contribution to Aaron and Jade’s fundraising campaign visit, https://shorturl.at/aaTtj

Aaron Lee and Jade Rameka with their two-year-old daughter Kaia.

(Damjan Janevski) 409020_05

Kitchens in the firing line

By Eddie Russell

Developer Frank Days is racing against time to keep the kitchenettes from his Melton rooming house from being ripped out.

The amenities need to be removed by early June.

The property, which houses nine people, has been deemed non-compliant with Melton council’s planning scheme following a 2022 Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal decision about a similar property in Brimbank.

VCAT ruled that the development was technically not a rooming house because the tribunal member considered the rooms to

be “self-contained apartments” rather than rooms.

Mr Days said the decision is leading to inconsistent council compliance across Melbourne.

“Every council is approaching it differently. Some are saying you can keep a sink, some are saying you can keep a hot plate, others are saying you can have it all,” he said.

“We’ve submitted plans to other councils and they’ve given them the seal of approval.”

Meltoncouncilcitygrowthanddevelopment manager Blake de Alencar Angus said council had to act in accordance with the planning scheme.

“In line with state legislation and VCAT

determinations, enforcement action will be taken if the property is not brought into compliance.”

Mr Days said the council has been helpful during the process.

“They’ve been nothing but willing to assist us in getting these approved, but at the end of the day, they’re … just enforcing the rules. Change needs to come from state level,” he said.

However, a state government spokesperson said it was a matter for council.

MeltonMPSteveMcGhiemetwithMrDays last Thursday to inspect the property.

Mr Days said during the visit, Mr McGhie spoke to an emotional tenant.

“She was pretty much in tears … she has certain health issues that make it very difficult for her to share a kitchen with eight other people. Another tenant, who has become wheelchair bound, is going to have issues with it as well,” he said.

Mr Days was confident change could be achieved moving forward.

“If we get it in front of the right people … they’ll agree that this is the right way to proceed,” he said.

But for now, he will not be committing to any new projects in the area.

“We’ve invested $6 million in Melton over the last two years and we won’t be throwing good money after this.”

Pilot repainted his 4WD

By Tara Cosoleto, AAP

Greg Lynn’s 4WD was painted a different colour when police attended his Caroline Springs home months after he allegedly murdered Russell Hill and Carol Clay, a jury has been told.

Lynn, who was a Jetstar captain, is accused of killing the couple on March 20, 2020, in Victoria’s Wonnangatta Valley and then dumping their remains in bushland.

The 57-year-old has pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder and is on trial at the Supreme Court in Melbourne.

Detective Leading Senior Constable Abbey Justin on Wednesday said cell tower records showed Mr Hill’s phone was near the Great Alpine Road at 10am on March 21, the day after the alleged murders.

Police accessed CCTV footage from the road and found only one vehicle had come from the Wonnangatta Valley in that period, she told the jury.

Sen Const Justin said the vehicle was a grey-blue Nissan Patrol registered to Lynn.

She first attended Lynn’s Caroline Springs home on July 14, 2020, and saw his vehicle parked on a side street but it was painted a light-brown colour, the jury was told.

She admitted it might have been a “sand bank”colourwhenquizzedbyLynn’sbarrister Dermot Dann KC.

Lynn had told police he painted his car that colour after the Wonnangatta trip, Mr Dann said. Sen Const Justin also gave evidence about Lynn’s bank records, which showed he purchased fuel in Mansfield, west of Wonnangatta, on March 21.

It’s alleged Mr Hill and Mrs Clay died on March20afteranargumentbetweenLynnand Mr Hill at Bucks Camp in the Wonnangatta Valley.

Mr Hill had threatened to send his drone footage of Lynn deer hunting near the camp to police, Mr Dann told the jury. He claimed a scuffle broke out after Mr Hill took a gun from Lynn’s vehicle and Mrs Clay was accidentally shot by Mr Hill.

The barrister said Mr Hill came at Lynn with a knife and was accidentally stabbed in the chest as Lynn defended himself.

However, prosecutors allege Lynn intentionally killed Mr Hill and Mrs Clay. Lynn burned Mrs Clay and Mr Hill’s campsite, put their bodies in his trailer and dumped them on the remote Union Spur Track, near Dargo. The trial continues.

Jury shown fragments of bone

Bone fragments belonging to Russell Hill andCarolClaywerediscoveredinremote bushland more than 18 months after they disappeared, a jury has been told.

Dozens of photos of bones, teeth and watch parts uncovered by detectives were shown in the Supreme Court in Melbourne on Thursday.

Caroline Springs airline pilot Greg Lynn is accused of the double murder of Mr Hill and Mrs Clay in March 2020.

He has pleaded not guilty.

Forensic officer George Xydias told the jury he assessed an area of bushland near the Union Spur Track, east of Wonnangatta, between November 29 and December 1, 2021.

A fallen tree trunk 16m away was also analysed and bone fragments along with three teeth and parts of an old wrist watch were located, Mr Xydias told the jury.

The expert said a fire had been lit on the cleared section of land and the bones and other burnt items were thrown into the open tree trunk.

DrDadnaHartman,fromtheVictorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, confirmed at least one of the bone fragments found at Union Spur Track belonged to Mr Hill.

She told the jury she also carried out testingofbonesfragmentsatBucksCamp, where the murders allegedly occurred.

The fragments, found by detectives in March 2022, belonged to Mrs Clay, Dr Hartman told the jury.

Designs revealed for Melton crossing removals

The state government has released concept designs for two Melton level crossings as it strives to make the municipality boom gate-free by 2026

Transport Infrastructure Minister Danny Pearson revealed new road bridges will be built over the rail line at Ferris Road in Melton and Hopkins Road in Truganina, creating a safer and smoother journey for drivers.

The government said that in response to community feedback, new walking and cycling paths will feature on the road bridges thanks to an investment through the Growth Areas Infrastructure Contribution (GAIC) fund.

The early concept designs detail the new rail bridges that will take trains over Coburns and Exford roads in Melton and to the new Melton station.

Major construction is scheduled to begin later this year, with the new station open and all four sets of boom gates gone for good in 2026 – two years ahead of schedule.

“The release of the latest designs is an exciting step towards getting rid of these Melton level crossings once and for all,” Mr Pearson said.

“We’re building a new Melton station, getting rid of four dangerous and congested level crossings and making Melton boom gate

An unsung hero celebrated

Eight years ago, Jan Ogle saw an ad calling for new Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members in the local newspaper.

Ms Ogle says the timing couldn’t have been better.

“My daughters had grown up a bit, so I had a bit more time to give,” she said.

Now co-team Leader at Blackwood CERT, Ms Ogle loves giving back to the community.

“I come from a nursing and midwifery background,soitwasimportanttometogoout and help people,” she said. One of her favourite things about being a volunteer for Ambulance Victoria is the scope of interaction it brings.

“We work closely alongside a variety of paramedics – our local crews, the metro crews, MobileIntensiveCareAmbulance(MICA)and air ambulance teams.

“It’s always different – almost no two jobs are the same.”

CERTs are comprised of volunteer first responders, trained to provide advanced first

aid, and are located in less populated and more remote areas of the state.

However, the work doesn’t stop there for Ms Ogle. She is also involved in the much-loved peer support dog program.

With her pet labrador, Pippa, the duo travel around Victoria, visiting ambulance branches and hospitals to educate and connect people with Ambulance Victoria’s wellbeing and support services.

Theprogramaimstodecreasestigmaaround seeking help and to reduce occupational stress.

“I love going out on the peer dog days and chatting to the paramedics, first responders, the staff and the graduate paramedics,” Ms Ogle said.

“Pip’s just the icebreaker – then you get to chat about how they’re going and make sure they know what wellbeing supports are available to them.”

Eddie Russell

free by 2026, improving safety and busting congestion for locals in the west.”

The Melton level crossing removals will also pave the way for the introduction of larger nine-car VLocity trains as part of the $650 million Melton Line Upgrade, increasing capacity for passengers by 50 per cent.

Locals are being asked to share their ideas to help refine designs for the level crossing removals at Ferris Road and Hopkins Road.

The early designs, online surveys and more information about community information sessions is available at engage.vic.gov.au/ lxrp-melton.

The design proposed for the removal of the Ferris Road level crossing. (Supplied)

Jan Ogle volunteers for Ambulance Victoria. (Supplied)

A court sketch of Greg Lynn. (AAP Image/Paul Tyquin)

Melton residents cashing in big

Melton residents are champions when it comes to recyling with more than 14.7 million containers returned to the Melton depot since the state government’s Container Deposit Scheme started in November.

Williamstown is leading the state with over 18.6millioncontainersreturned,whileMelton is Melbourne’s second-best performing site with residents having returned 14.7 million containers.

Across Victoria more than 500 million cans and bottles have been recycled. An average of 138 containers are returned per transaction with CDS Vic processing around 17 million

cans, cartons and bottles statewide every week.

Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos visitedtheCDSVicDepotinMeltonlastweek.

Mr Dimopoulos said containers collected through CDS Vic are transformed into all kinds of new things, including material for roads, furniture, construction, textiles and more – creating new economic opportunities that will support more than 600 jobs across Victoria.

He said thanks to the generosity of Victorians, more than $260,000 has already been donated to the scheme’s 3000

participating charity partners - including Citizen Blue in Williamstown, Scouts Victoria in Glen Waverley and Envirobank in Kangaroo Flat and East Bendigo.

Melton MP Steve McGhie congratulated Melton residents for their commitment to recycling.

“Residents right across Melton have embraced our recycling initiative – reducing landfill and putting thousands of dollars back into their pockets,” said Mr McGhie.

The Melton depot, which has handled 14.7 million cans, glass, and PET plastics in just over six months, is operated by KARI in

Operation: get Elise to Disneyworld

They say it takes a village to raise a child.

In this case, however, it takes a village to send that child to America so she can sing for Disney.

Elise Hetherington is a nine-year-old Melton local who has been chosen to audition at Disney’s International Showcase in Orlando, Florida.

Her father Matthew says Elise’s goal has been clear from the start.

“Her dream has always been to sing on stage, especially for Disney,” he says.

After a series of auditions via Zoom, Elise was selected to go to Sydney for a showcase

event. However, the trip was costly.

“I decided to drain every bit of soup I had to get to Sydney, and I don’t really have anything left,” Matthew says.

Registration just to enter the showcase is $890, and tickets to watch are $175. Flights, accommodation, and passports will cost about $4000 each.

But Matthew says it’s worth every cent.

“If she goes on and gets a gig with Disney or Disney Australia it would be extremely life changing for her,” he said.

The community has already started to rally around Elise, with Melton council and Elise’s

GP family violence training

The North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) is on a mission to protect and support patients experiencing family violence through its innovative program, Primary Care Pathways to Safety. This program equips general practice staff with the necessary tools to provide trauma-informed care to victim-survivors.

The program offers tailored training to GPs, practice nurses, practice managers, and reception staff. The aim is to enable them to effectively assist patients disclosing intimate partner violence or other forms of domestic abuse. Support ranges from providing information on local services to alerting emergency organisations for immediate protection.

Developed in collaboration with the

University of Melbourne’s Safer Families Centre of Research Excellence, which developed targeted training protocols, the program began in 2019, with funding provided to 30 practices across Melbourne’s north and west for training and resources.

One of the 30 practices is the Deer Park Medical Centre. Practice manager Namarata Malhotra said “Beyond merely identifying signs of abuse, they (staff) serve as frontline advocates, offering compassionate support, and actively facilitating connections between affected patients and the essential resources and services needed to navigate and overcome such challenging situations.”

NWMPHN is now in the process of recruiting another 30 practices to undertake the training.

partnership with Clean Vibes, a sustainable event waste management company.

KARI is a not-for-profit organisation that supports Aboriginal families and youth. They also manage a second refund point in Coburg North and employ 17 people from mostly First Nations backgrounds across both sites.

Once fully rolled out in August, Victorians willbeabletoreturneligibledrinkcontainers to around 600 refund points across the state. To find your nearest refund point and for more information, visit cdsvic.org.au.

music school getting involved.

Jasmine Lynch is Elise’s singing teacher and manager of Melton Music. She says Elise’s success would be a good boost for the area.

“It’s like a claim for Melton really – this girl who made it on Disney is a local. How could you not want to get behind that?” she says.

“She just needs help getting there but she’s got the talent and the drive to make it once she gets that chance.”

To donate to the GoFundMe page, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/funding-thevoice-of-an-angel Eddie Russell

Weir Views is set to receive an early learning and childcare centre (ELCC) in 2026.

The new ELCC will be built at Toolern Waters Primary School, which is currently undergoing construction in preparation for its January 2026 opening.

Melton MP Steve McGhie says the addition will provide the future generation with the necessary early learning experiences it needs.

“We’re investing in children and the local community here in Weir Views. Every family deserves to have access to local and affordable early childhood education and care,“ he said.

“I’m excited about the opportunities these facilities will bring for local children, local schools and their communities.“

Mr McGhie said the convenience will save parents from added time and stress.

“This new initiative will make the transition between kinder and prep seamless and help families avoid the dreaded double drop-off.”

TheELCCisdesignedtomeetdemand for the area’s growing population, which has faced a shortage of early learning facilities.

It will also feature dedicated community space for programs and services like maternal and child health, allied health, playgroups or other child and family services.

Toolern Waters Primary School will have places for up to 715 students, including 65 students with disabilities, to help ease pressure on surrounding schools trying to cope with increasing enrolments.

Elise, 9, out the front of her music school (Damjan Janevski). 409157_04

The ‘critical’ first 1000 days

Australia is grappling with the twin crises of family violence and housing shortages. At the Caroline Chisholm Society (CCS) these two nation-wide issues have come to a head as Hannah Hammoud reports.

The Caroline Chisholm Society – based in the western suburbs of Melbourne –provides wrap-around family services to prevent the need for child protection involvement for thousands of women and their children who might otherwise have entered or experienced the trauma of out of home care.

CCS chief executive Jennifer Weber says early intervention and prevention is the key to working towards positive outcomes for vulnerable women.

“We are experiencing a demand for services, particularly for women who are pregnant and impacted by family violence and homelessness,” Ms Weber said.

‘‘ Pregnancy is often a very vulnerable time for women and it can often be the trigger life-event where women start to experience violence ’’ - Jennifer Weber

“We know from research that pregnancy is often a very vulnerable time for women and it can often be the trigger life-event where women start to experience violence.”

Ms Weber said services like the CCS aim to provide essential support to pregnant women, allowing them to self-refer to family services priortochildbirth.Thegoalistoconnectthese expectant mothers with resources early on, ensuring their safety and readiness for their baby’s arrival. However, the current surge in demand has meant that pregnant women are often not prioritised until after their baby is born.

This delay can lead to severe consequences. For instance, when at-risk mothers give birth, childprotectionservicesmaybecomeinvolved immediately if there are concerns about the mother’s ability to provide a safe environment for the baby. In some cases, mothers have reported being told they cannot take their baby home or continue breastfeeding because child protection has decided to place the baby

in care due to perceived risks.

Ms Weber said a common scenario involves mothers who are escaping family violence and have been unable to secure stable housing during their pregnancy. Upon giving birth, they face immediate scrutiny from child protection services. If they are found to lack safe housing, their newborn may be required to stay in the hospital until suitable accommodation is found. This situation forces new mothers into a frantic search for housing, under the pressure of knowing their baby cannot come home until it is resolved.

Ms Weber said funding received by the CCS limits what the organisation can do in the early intervention/prevention space – called the “first 1000 days” – a critical time between a woman’s pregnancy and her child’s second birthday. The first 1000 days represents a time that can be an opportunity for both “tremendous potential” as well as a time of “potential risk of adversity and vulnerability.”

Ms Weber said funding for family services liketheCCSisthe“loosechangeinthecouch” to supporting this increasingly vulnerable cohort of women.

“Wearenotaskingformillionsandmillions of dollars but we are asking for the discussion and serious consideration to be given to how we can be funded,” she said.

“There are more than 2000 women in Victoria needing help and there are very limited pathways into services for women. Instead of somebody putting them onto a waitlist, we can start working with them straightaway,andwegetreallygoodoutcomes when we do this because we can move very quickly to stabilise the situation.

“To me, the housing first principle is first and foremost. In the government budgets there are very grand themes that seem to be identified,butwhataboutwhenorganisations areendeavouringtodowhattheseaspirations are trying to solve by coming up with real solutions. But we in fact still can’t get access to respectable housing solutions, and by that I mean not putting pregnant women into hotels that most of us would never want to be staying in, and they’ve got two to three days to stay there and then they’ve got to find somewhere else.”

A state government spokesperson said victim survivors of family violence are prioritised for social housing.

“Housing allocations for family violence survivors have grown by 49 per cent since 2019-20,” the spokesperson said.

“We have also invested more than $72 million in the Victorian Budget 2024-25 to provide immediate support and emergency accommodation for survivors of family violence.

“The Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Vicki Ward recently met with the sector to hear about what is working well and what more we can do to provide emergency accommodation for those escaping family violence.”

Ms Weber said the CCS wants the government to enable them to work with women “sooner rather than later”.

“We want them to help us find houses and accommodation that can be available for six to 12 months at least in the short term to stabilise mum’s situation,” she said.

Ms Weber said in the prenatal stage, providing timely support to expectant motherscanbeapivotalmomentthatchanges the trajectory of their lives and the lives of their unborn children.

“I often think of it as a sliding doors moment,” Ms Weber said.

“Consider the case of a pregnant woman who arrives in Victoria from another state, fleeing family violence and other issues. She has been couch surfing, and her Centrelink payments have been disrupted due to her unstable living conditions. In the final weeks of her pregnancy, she visits a Centrelink office to fix her payment issues. During her visit, she starts to reveal more about her situation, which raises red flags. The Centrelink social worker then comes over to speak with her and this is where the sliding doors moment happens. The social worker has a couple of options, they could either flag her case in the system or they could call the Caroline Chisholm Society. Within hours of us getting that call, we’ve set up a practitioner, a doula to support mum during her childbirth, and because we’ve been able to provide wrap around services we can then start addressing housing and other issues and child protection doesn’t need to be involved.”

Ms Weber said this scenario underscores the critical need for proactive support systems for expectant mothers, especially those in vulnerable situations.

MsWebersaidthecurrentsystemoftenfalls short with many expectant mothers facing delays and barriers when seeking support, sometimes resulting in situations that could have been avoided with timely assistance.

“We need to do better for anyone regardless of their particular situation – not having to sit and wait at intakes to be considered for a few nights of accommodation. But particularly so for a pregnant woman, it’s such a critical time for them as they are about to give birth, if child protection gets that call and has to investigate once mum gives birth… this is not going to be a great outcome.

“If baby has to be removed from mum and go into care, what’s that going to cost? Not just the social and emotional wellbeing of mum and bub, but on the system itself?”

Caroline Chisholm Society chief executive

Jennifer Weber. (Damjan Janevski) 407746_01

(iStock)

‘A big sister’ to students in need

By Eddie Russell

Navigating the leap from primary school to high school can be terrifying, something that EdConnect volunteer Shirley Harsley understands better than most.

Ms Harsley spends her day off in Melton, at Wedge Park Primary and Kurunjang Secondary College, helping students make the transition.

Shesaidvolunteeringinschoolsispartofher life-long goal to assist the next generation.

“Iwanttocatchtheonesthatfallthroughthe cracks if I can. If they don’t have the support that they need before [the transition] then later down the track it does affect them,” she said.

“There’s so many things that are new to them when they go to high school … so [I am] a friendly face there to settle them in and see how they are going.”

EdConnect Australia allocates and directs volunteers to local schools with young people who need mentoring or learning support.

Ms Harsley said more vulnerable students could be reached if additional schools engage with the EdConnect program.

“I’d like to see more schools involved. We assisted over 19,000 students across Australia last year and we are looking to increase that number.”

A counselling background, as well as a youth mental health accreditation, allows Ms Harsley

to provide the students with the guidance they require.

“I offer support emotionally, academically, or whatever the child needs. I’m just like a big sister I suppose; someone to talk to,” she said.

The connection that grows with the students is one that runs deep, Ms Harsley said.

“One of the very first students I saw came back to the school after starting secondary schoolandaskedtheprincipaltotellmethathe was okay and had settled in, which was really nicebecauseyoudon’treallygetachancetosay goodbye,” she said.

Shirley Harsley. (Supplied).

Police have arrested a St Albans teenager, and another teen in a Keilor East cemetery, following an alleged theft of a car in Hillside and evade through the west on May 22. It is alleged the car was stolen in Royal Crescent, Hillside about 1.30am.

Two occupants of a stolen Toyota Corolla, allegedly armed with machetes, approached a 20-year-old Hillside man who had just parked hisredKiaSorento.Thetwoteenagersallegedly chased and assaulted the 20-year-old, before stealing his keys and the Kia.

Police spotted the stolen Kia and Corolla on the Calder Freeway a short time later. The vehicles were followed to Keilor, where stop sticks were deployed.

The Kia came to a stop at a service station on KeilorParkDrive,beforethetwooccupantsled on foot into a nearby cemetery. One teenager was arrested by a member of the Dog Squad in the cemetery. Police arrested the other teen a short time later.

The 16-year-old Hoppers Crossing boy has been charged with armed robbery, theft of motor vehicle, being armed with a controlled weapon with criminal intent, possess a controlled weapon, and traffic related offences.

Tax cuts for every taxpayer

The 17-year-old St Albans boy was released and is expected to be charged on summons at a later date.

The 2012 grey Toyota Corolla and its occupants are yet to be located and the investigation remains ongoing.

New display details history

The Bacchus Marsh and District Historical Society has announced the opening of its latest walldisplay. LocatedintheLerderdergLibrary, the display shows local historical events along a timeline, beginning with British colonisation in 1788 and continuing all the way through to the year 2000.

President John Spain said the inclusion of regional and global events provided a fresh context and a unique lens for viewers to understand the significance of events.

“It’s a little different from previous displays in that happenings outside our district are displayed with images of Bacchus Marsh from the same time periods” he said. “For example, the establishment of the Bacchus Marsh Primary School occurred in the year before the discovery of gold at Buninyong.”

Mr Spain said this newest edition incorporates modern technology.

“The society has also, for the first time, included QR codes in the display. Visitors to the display can use the QR codes with their mobile phones to access detailed historical informationaboutthedepictedevents,”hesaid. Another new feature of the display is the use of ‘before’ and ‘after’ images, highlighting how much the local landscape had changed.

Posting for connection

This month, one million households across the state will receive a special prepaid postcard thanks to Australia Post and Beyond Blue.

The Connection Postcard program is entering its fourth year, with a strong focus on encouraging greater community connection and supporting mental wellbeing across the country.

According to Ending Loneliness Together’s State of the Nation Report, nearly one in three Australians struggle with loneliness, especially in remote or regional areas, causing Australia Post to increase its distribution of postcards in this year’s program.

The two-part ‘Connection Postcard includes important mental health information and Beyond Blue contact details, and a detachable second part including a pre-paid postcard for recipients to pen a personalised note to send to a friend or loved one.

Created by regional Australian artist, Jocelyn Proust, the brand-new illustration includes two fairy wrens in a vibrant natural setting to signify the power of communication for connection and begins with the words, ‘sharing this postcard because I care’.

Australia Post general manager of community and stakeholder engagement, Nicky Tracey, said Australia Post is proud to be expanding the campaign in 2024.

“We know that when we connect, we feel better. This is why we’re delighted to be a longstanding partner of Beyond Blue, helping to connect people with each other and to mental health information,” she said.

“Last year’s Connection Postcard campaign demonstrated that 95%** of recipients who sent on the postcard felt more positive.”

The postcards include encourage people to share a thought, share a memory, and share a story.

Local election information

In partnership with local councils, the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV)isholdingaseriesofinformation sessionsaimedatprospectivecandidates and the wider community.

Sessions can be attended both in person or online, and will provide information about the role and purpose of local government, roles and responsibilities of the mayor, local councillors, and the chief executive, election process and candidate requirements, councillor training and development opportunities, as well as what newly elected councillors can expectafteranelection.Participantscan register to attend more than one session, including outside their municipality.

To support and encourage diverse candidates, MAV will host additional sessions for women, people with disabilities, LGBTQA+ people, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, youth, and linguistically diverse communities.

“Whilepeoplehaveneverbeenmoredigitally connected,theresearchshowstoomanypeople experiencefeelingsofdisconnection,loneliness and isolation. In our fourth year in partnership with Australia Post, we hope to continue fostering genuine connection through the simple act of sending a personalised postcard,

BeyondBluechiefexecutiveGeorgieHarman said the expanded campaign is coming at a time when greater community connection and awareness about accessible and affordable mental health support is critical.

while also encouraging people to look after their mental health and know that Beyond Blue is always there for them with free support around the clock,” she said.

“Whether it’s a simple conversation, a supportive gesture, or a shared experience, fostering connection is essential for nurturing resilience, reducing isolation, and promoting overall wellbeing.”

The next local council election will be held in October 2024. To become a candidate, residents must be an Australian citizen aged 18 years or older, be enrolled in the council they’re contesting and have completed the mandatory local government candidate training. The metropolitan west session will be held on Wednesday, June 5, at the Wyndham Civic Centre, 45 Princes Highway, Werribee. The metropolitan north session will be held on Thursday, July18,attheTownHallBroadmeadows, 10 Dimboola Road, Broadmeadows Details: mav.asn.au/stand-forcouncil-2024

New paramedics ready to serve the community

New paramedics will join the ranks at Ambulance Victoria’s (AV) Point Cook and Tarneit branches, following a graduation ceremony in Sunshine last week.

The graduates have joined AV’s Advanced Life Support (ALS) paramedic ranks, having completed the Graduate Ambulance Paramedic (GAP) program.

GAP participants undertake a structured, on-road supervision and learning program for at least 12 months after completing their university degrees, before becoming fully qualified ALS paramedics.

Theprogramhelpsgraduatestransitionfrom the classroom to the ‘real world’, integrating into day-to-day team responsibilities and activities, AV said.

The attendees at Sunday’s ceremony brought a diverse range of life experiences and motivations to their career at AV, with the group including new parents, a former retail worker, an ex-teacher and individuals following in the footsteps of family members.

Taryn Daly’s big brother Stuart has been a paramedic in Wodonga for almost 10 years and she said it was special to have him at her graduation.

“He’s 12 years older than me and such a big role model in my life,” Taryn said.

“He’s helped me with studying, with any questions I have and giving me advice.

“It was great finishing my grad year and to be able to tell my brother my results and sharing my achievements with him.”

Taryn said her brother has been one part of a supportive network as she stepped into her new career.

“My partner Brandon has also been very supportive – he always has dinner ready when I get home from work, or when I’m studying he’s always cooking and cleaning,” she said.

Since beginning her paramedicine studies, being able to help a wide range of people has been the highlight for Taryn.

“My favourite thing about being a paramedic is helping people every day,” she said.

“You go into people’s homes when they’re dealing with their toughest moments so it’s a unique role – I find it fulfilling and rewarding.

“I enjoy meeting all different kinds of people every day and talking to patients and their families.

“And I love that I get to come to work and do all that alongside some of my best mates.”

AV chief executive Jane Miller said the graduation was a big achievement for the new paramedics.

“We congratulate all our newest advanced life support paramedics on completing their time as a graduate ambulance paramedic and are thrilled to celebrate this milestone in their careers,” she said.

“It’s fantastic to hear what motivated each of them to become paramedics, and while these

reasons vary, we are all linked by a passion to help and care for our community.

“This group have already spent significant time on-road making a positive impact to patients across the state, so they understand what an honour it is to provide best care to all Victorians, and we’re excited to have them join us in delivering that.”

ThenewparamedicswillbebasedatTarneit, Point Cook, Dallas, Sydenham, Hillside, Belgrave, Seymour, Clyde North, Inglewood, Morwell and Winchelsea.

The graduates during Sunday’s ceremony. Taryn Daly (above) with peer support dog Ted. (Pictures: Supplied)

Gisborne Post Office team Joe, Jamie and Tanya. (Supplied)

DJs in Diggers Rest

A group of students from Diggers Rest Primary School have been busy remixing songs to use the power of music to connect.

During term two, 10 boys from grade six have been selected to participate in a weekly DJ-Podcast program run by DJ ‘Ragz’ from Urban Movement.

Assistant principal Brad Kemp helped select the students for the program, who all requested to participate.

“We felt like we needed to connect those students in a fun and engaging environment,”

YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here

Mr Kemp said.

“We’ve had a very positive response from all the students, they’re looking forward to producing [a] DJ set with their songs.”

The program is designed to engage students at a deeper level within the school community and build a stronger sense of inclusion and connectedness.

Throughout the program the students have developed a range of skills which will allow them to prepare for a life beyond primary school.

Briefs

Arson charge A Deanside boy has been charged following an investigation into two tobacco store fires in Glenroy earlier this month. The 17-year-old was arrested on May 23 and was charged with criminal damage by fire (arson), theft of a motor vehicle and possession of a prohibited weapon. The boy was bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date. The arrest follow two fires at separate tobacco stores in Glenroy on May 17. Emergency services were initially called to a business on Morgan Court about 4.15am, with a second fire being reported at a Belair Avenue premises only minutes later.

Recognising Victoria’s volunteers Nominations are now open for the Victorian Volunteer Awards 2024, and can be submitted for inspiring individuals or organisations, who are helping make Victoria an even better place to live through their volunteering. Nominations for the 2024 Awards close on Monday, July 22. For more information, and to nominate a Victorian making a difference, visit volunteeringvictoria.org.au/awards.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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

Gay day gathers an award

The Bacchus Marsh Lawn Tennis Club has been named as a finalist in Tennis Victoria’s community awards for its facilitation of an inclusive tournament held earlier this year.

Across two days in February the club hosted A Gay Day On The Green and welcomed 72 players from across the state, as well as one player from the United States, to have a hit.

Since joining the Gay and Lesbian Tennis Alliance, the club has hosted the event on several occasions, with its first iteration receiving support from Moorabool council in 2022.

Club secretary Shane Jenkins said it was a fantastic event that was growing in popularity.

“We have a number of LGBTQ folks among our membership, so it’s both inwardly and

externally supportive,” he said.

“It’s more than just turning up to a play, there’s a big social aspect.

“The more inclusive and well rounded we are, the better.”

The idea was spearheaded by club president BenWhitewiththesupportofKate-lynPerkins from Tennis Victoria.

Mr Jenkins said the club was ecstatic to receive the recognition.

“We are chuffed to be a finalist, it’s a great accolade for everyone at the club,” he said.

The winner of each award category will be announced at an event at the Kooyong Lawn tennis Club on May 23.

DJ ‘Ragz’ and participating students. (Supplied)

Oliver Lees

Attendees at A Gay Day On The Green. (Supplied)

‘‘ This is the result of many years of being connected with the sport ... I’m genuinely thrilled ’’

- Stacey West

Stacey West’s netball passion

Stacey West has stepped up to take on the biggest role in Netball Australia, appointed as the organisation’s new chief executive. She chats with Tara Murray about the role, the future and the enjoyment she gets from stepping onto court as a coach with the Sunbury Lions.

Stacey West might have the toughest job in Australian netball, but come Saturday afternoons her focus is the Sunbury Lions. West was recently announced the next chief executive of Netball Australia, having filled the role in an acting capacity.

It’s a role that comes with its challenges, with netball making the headlines for the wrong reasons multiple times in the past 12 months. While she spends her weeks looking at the big picture of netball, she’s also invested in her local netball community.

West got involved with the Sunbury Lions in 2022 to help support the club at which her daughter was playing.

She never looked back.

“I love coaching my daughter,” she said. “I love being part of a club. I love being part of a community of football netball league. I love being part of the Netball Victoria community.

“Igetalotoutofbeingreallyconnectedevery weekend and giving back to something that I love, but also it gives me a lot.

“I turn up at the court and I love it … I’m filled with so much joy and being able to be connected to people that also get joy out of netball, it’s my real happy place.”

West said becoming the chief executive of Netball Australia was never on her radar.

She joined Netball Australia 13 years ago and has been performance executive general manager for the past four years.

“It’s been an incredible journey,” she said. “I think someone asked me if it was ever on your list when you were a little child when you wrote what you wanted to do when I grew up. No, the CEO of one of the most incredible female sports in this country was not was not where I wanted to be.

“This is the result of many years of being connected with the sport and having played multiple roles from player to coach to administrator and still being very deeply connected to the sport on a range of levels has enabled me to be really well positioned for this opportunity as a CEO.

“I’m genuinely thrilled”

West said her initial response to taking on the interim chief executive role was to do it as that was what the sport needed.

Slowly, as she started to feel the breadth of the role, West started to enjoy it.

West’s keenness for the job was noticed by those close to her.

“I also saw the sport take some steps into change across that period so it gave me some confidence that the sport was ready and I was in a good position to lead how we do the next version of ourselves,” she said.

“I remember sitting at home with my husband one night and he looked at me and he saidtome,‘you’regoingtogoforthisrolearen’t you?’ Even he noticed a change.”

It hasn’t been smooth sailing for netball in Australia the past 12 months.

Suncorp Super Netball contract standoffs and negative public reaction from players and fans, to Collingwood pulling out of SSN have caused mistrust to grow.

Just a day after her official appointment, a score drama meant a match that had been calledawin,wasactuallyadrawandextratime was needed.

West said the incident again demonstrates that people want the sport to be better.

“The sport is in a process of delivery, but it also has to keep discovering what it needs to do better and that’s what is so exciting,” she said.

“We keep evolving and we make a commitment to keep doing that.

“We don’t want any fault or any error, we don’t want anyone to be impacted.

“Sowedoworkveryhardtoensurethatallof you know that all of our processes and people are well supported but sometimes, you know things occur and it allows us to make some change, which is good.”

West knows that many people don’t trust Netball Australia after what occurred. She said they have a really clear and aligned vision on where they want the sport to go.

“We want to grow participation,” she said. “We want to enhance the experience of all of our grassroots players and coaches and umpires.

“Wewanttobemoreinclusive.We’vejustgot to ensure that people can play the game, can access the game and can love the game.

“From grassroots right through to high performance.”

From an SSN point of view, West said they want to see some real growth in the competition.

She said all the data is showing more people are watching netball than ever. West said focusingontheeightcurrentclubsandmaking sure they’re sustainable is a priority.

“We want to continue to explore both what is happening now, but what might be a good idea moving forward is what we do next,” she said.

“Wehaveeightexistingteams.Wewantthem to be achieving to their maximum potential and then we continue to explore what might be moving forward.“

Westsaidshe’sgratefultobeinvolvedatboth ends of the netball landscape.

She said being part of the local netball community helps fill her bucket and allows her to be just a normal netball coach.

She said being involved in the community allows her to see what others are experiencing.

“I’m a volunteer coach that gives up her time for the betterment of the club and the sport,” she said.

“My hopes are that they [others on court] don’t know that I am [CEO] but for those that do, again my hope is that I’m no different.

“When I turn up in my Sunbury Lions hoodie, I’m not the CEO of Netball Australia at the moment.”

Stacey West is Netball Australia’s new chief executive. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)

Stacey West and her daughter Tahlia West. (Alizah Woodgate)

New babies on the Savannah

calves – a spectacular and mysterious species of antelope – recently born at the zoo.

Werribee Open Range Zoo Savannah keeper Katie Jones said the tiny calves are difficult to spot because they spend their first few weeks separated from the herd.

calves when they think the coast is clear, and the calves re-join the rest of the herd when they’re old enough.”

Nyala are a shy species of antelope that prefer to dwell in dense forest areas in order to camouflage.

If you look carefully, you might spot some very big ears poking through the long grass at Werribee Open Range Zoo’s Savannah.

“After the calves are born, the mothers use a behaviour called ’stashing’ where they hide them in long grass or at the base of trees to protect them from potential predators,” Ms Jones said.

Ms Jones said the striking white vertical stripes that run down their shimmering chestnut fur are what makes them so unique.

“They’re not the best runners and have

they rely on the dappled sunlight casting patterns similar to the stipes and dots on their backs.

“It can take quite a lot of looking through the trees to see them and even zookeepers struggle sometimes.”

Lowlandnyalaareamedium-sizedantelope native to south-eastern Africa. Males can be identified by their large spiralling horns. Scientists estimate nyala have lived for over five million years, making them older than

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One of the four Nyala calves born at Werribee Open Range Zoo. Right: You can often spot the calves hiding in the long grass. (Pictures: Supplied)

Nominate for business awards

Nominations for the 2024 City of Melton Business Excellence Awards are now open. Businesses within the City of Melton can nominate themselves or others they believe deserve to be commended for their efforts. The awards provide an opportunity for traders of all sizes to showcase their strengths and celebrate what sets them apart.

MeltonmayorKathyMajdliksaystheawards are an acknowledgment of the great services provided to the community.

“Our businesses are the backbone of our local economy, and it’s important we recognise their outstanding contributions,” she said.

“Whether you’re a small, family-run operation, a large, well-established business, or something in between, it’s a fantastic chance to celebrate your achievements and the services and products you provide to the community.”

This year’s award categories include: innovation and transformation; equality, diversityandinclusion;disabilityandinclusion

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago May 30, 1984

Melton council will ask agents associated with the Newmarket Saleyards to investigate relocating the livestock selling complex at Rockbank.

25 years ago May 26, 1999

Western Water is planning to access more water in the towns of Bacchus Marsh, Toolern Vale and Rockbank which is servicedbytheMerrimuReservoirsystem.

Initiative; sustainability excellence; health, wellness and care; visitation and hospitality; new business/start up; professional services; and young entrepreneur of the year

Applications are reviewed by a number of independent and experienced business professionals. Following this, the judges will rank the applications and determine a maximum of three category finalists.

The winners will be announced on Wednesday, September 11 at the awards night.

The Business of the Year Award is open to business across all sectors that demonstrate highdeliveryandachievementinthreeormore of the above award categories. It will be decided by the judging panel made up of individual category award winners. Applications close midnight on Friday, July 12.

To apply: https://www.melton.vic.gov.au/ Services/Business/Business-Events-andPrograms/Business-Excellence-Awards

20 years ago May 25, 1994

Moorabool mayor John Cutler and other non-Bacchus Marsh councillors are turning up the heat on the Victorian Electoral Commission.

10 years ago May 27, 2004

Darley’s Savannah Warwick is like any other five-year-old girl – she likes animals, dolls and cuddles. Yet the Pentland PrimarySchoolpupilisoneofabout15,000 children who are born with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) – and on Friday, May 30, her fellow pupils and teachers will don orange for PWS Awareness Day.

Winners of the 2023 Melton Business Excellence Awards. (Melton Council)

Program to promote inclusivity

Deaf Children Australia (DCA) has launched its new blueprint program, designed to foster inclusivity for deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children within local sports and recreation clubs.

This initiative aims to bridge the communicationgapwithasuiteofdeaf-friendly resources.

DCA reports that parents of DHH children often struggle to integrate their kids into everyday activities due to a lack of accessible options.

In response to these struggles, DCA has developed the blueprint program which

includes a comprehensive toolkit to assist local sports and recreational clubs in welcoming and supporting DHH children.

Central to the blueprint program are 12 short videos featuring the experiences of DHH children, parents, coaches, and clubs.

The resource pack also includes posters, flashcards, information sheets, window decals, and links to videos demonstrating more than 100 Auslan signs across 10 recreational activities.

LocaldeaffootballerTomSharplessayshehas benefited from inclusive sports environments that have supported him through his sports

journey.

“I have played sport since I was five. I started at Auskick in Caroline Springs, which was my local community club. I loved playing and was excited to be with other kids my age. I loved going each week to Auskick and playing with all the other kids,” he said.

“My mum encouraged me to take part but she made sure the coaches knew I was deaf so they didn’t think I was being naughty by not listening to them. There was this lovely coach who was very kind and supportive to me and would make sure I knew what to do and he helped me along the way.”

(Damjan Janevski)

New group to share family history

When Darley Neighbourhood House put out the idea of forming a family history group they were unsure what the reaction would be.

Looking for ideas and activities that would work in the community, the group held an initial session in early May and were overwhelmed by the response.

“It was an opportunity for people to come together and learn from each other,” said house manager Renee Knight.

“It was one of those ideas where we wanted to see is there was some interest in forming a

group.

“There were a couple of locals who had some interest in family history who helped us test and the waters. In terms of numbers we were hopeful of getting five or six, we had 12 come along to the first meeting.”

Local Tim Hogan, who has experience in family history research, gave a run down and was able to get the conversation going.

With the interest, the house is going to have afamilyhistorygroupmeetonceamonth,with the members to have their chance in helping

form how the group grows.

“The key thing is the community get something out of it,” Ms Knight said. “The first meeting we had some people with lots of experienceandsomewhowererealbeginners.”

The group will meet the first Thursday of every month at 1.30pm at the neighbourhood house.

New members are welcome with Ms Knight saying the more people involved the more information that will be shared.

Sharples said inclusive sporting clubs are key to developing a strong community that is welcoming and inclusive of deaf and hard of hearing children and young people.

“The blueprint program hopefully will encourage clubs to be more proactive in promoting inclusivity. I hope many more clubs want to welcome deaf and hard of hearing people like Sunshine Heights Football Club, Taylors Lakes Football Club and Altona Sports Cricket Club have welcomed me,” he said.

“... I love running around the field with that ball in my hand always trying my best to kick that incredible goal.”

Level crossing project to start soon

Two level crossings will be removed in Diggers Rest, with works to get under way in the coming weeks.

It is estimated that 8000 vehicles travel over the level crossings, located on Old Calder Highway and Watsons Road, every day.

Road bridges will be built to permanently separate vehicles and trains on the Sunbury Line.

The construction of bridges over thissectionoftrackisexpectedtosave 36 minutes of boom gate down time according to the state government.

The works are not expected to be completed until 2025, with the majority of the project commencing later in the year.

Initial work will include setting up temporary fencing, site offices, works areas, signage, and removing vegetation at Old Calder Highway.

The project also includes upgraded and accessible walking paths, cycling paths and pedestrian crossings in the Diggers Rest Station precinct, as well as improved lighting and the installation of CCTV cameras.

Over 35,000 new trees, shrubs and grasses will be planted in the project area, including a diverse range of native plants natural to the surrounding environment, as part of a landscaping effort to create new public spaces.

Longer bus bays will also be built to the west of Diggers Rest Station to service existing and future bus routes.

Tim and Irene Hogan are part of the Darley Neighbourhood House family history group.

406447_02

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

First Aid courses

Enrolments are now open for Melton South Community Centre’s next round of first aid courses, scheduled for Saturday, June 29. Available courses include HLTAID009 (Perform CPR), HLTAID011 (Provide First Aid) and HLTAID012 (First Aid in an Education & Care Setting).

■ 9747 8576

Lights of Wisdom

The Bahá’ís of Moorabool invite you to Lights of Wisdom, a tranquil space to share the insights from the great spiritual traditions of mankind. Sessions will be held at the Lerderderg Library, Bacchus Marsh, every first Friday of the month. Starting time 7.30pm. Next session on June 7 will be devoted to the theme of gratitude. Entry is free.

■ mgilsant9@gmail.com

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

Bacchus Marsh CWA

Baking, crafting, day trips, local dining, market stalls and fundraising are just some of the things that the ladies do within the branch. From time to time it hosts guest speakers, morning and afternoon teas and special occasions. Catering is available by request. Jams, pickles, toys, handmade items and wearables are available for sale, as well as the CWA’s famous cookbooks. Open Monday-Wednesday, 9am-noon for morning or Devonshire Tea ($5-$8) at Darley Community and Civic Hub, Halletts Way (enter from Wittick Street). New members and visitors are welcome. Branch meetings are held the second Thursday of the month and craft day is the fourth Thursday of the month.

■ bacchus.cwa@gmail.com

Horticulturist chat

Horticulturist, author and presenter Craig Castree will speak at the June Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden meeting on June 12. Those at the meeting will learn about soil microbiome, which is about learning how to improve your soil. Castree’s talks are down to earth, informative and entertaining. The June meeting starts at 7.30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend the monthly meetings, at the Botanica Springs Community Centre, 249 Clarkes Road, Brookfield.

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of the Melton South Primary School colour run.(Damjan Janevski) 408205_01

Melton Bridge Club

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

■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Melton Friendship Group

An over-55’s singles friendship group for social engagements, fun outings, dinners, movies, dancing chats and walks. Enrich your life, no more loneliness or isolation. Nothing but fun and friendships.

■ 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

CLASSIFIEDS EARLY DEADLINES KING’S BIRTHDAY

Classified deadlines for Tuesday, 11th June issue as follows: Friday, 7th June at 1.30pm

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.

ACROSS

1 Uncovered (7)

5 Tools used to hold a wood or metal workpiece (1,6)

9 Amply (11)

10 Angry crowd (3)

11 Votary (6)

12 Comfort (7)

14 Directs (4)

15 Uneducated (10)

17 Rival (10)

19 Book ID (1,1,1,1)

20 Induct (7)

22 Resolve (6)

25 Pester (3)

26 Offender (11)

28 Raffle (7)

29 Forest workers (7)

1 See (4)

2 Alias, pen-name (9)

3 Lecher (5)

4 Submissive (11)

5 Hair product (3)

6 Launch a tirade at (3,4)

7 Latin American dance (5)

8 Section title (10)

12 Aficionado (11)

13 Partial (10)

16 Christmas plant (9)

18 Instance (7)

21 Spectacle (5)

23 Capital of Italy’s Piedmont region (5)

24 Advantages (4)

27 Narrow beam (3)

apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

1 What kind of food are poffertjes?

2 Who is the narrator in Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief?

3 Colloquially, what is a sparky?

4 What kind of fruit is ume?

5

What year did World War II end?

Natasha Lyonne

stars as Charlie Cale in which comedy series?

What is an archipelago?

And what is the world’s largest archipelagic state?

Advocaat is a traditional Dutch beverage made with

sugar and what kind of alcohol?

(pictured)

CX-30 a winner for Mazda

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Launched here in late 2020 the Mazda CX-30 is a small-medium SUV that squeezes into the space between the company’s original SUVs, the compact CX-3 and the mid-sized CX-5.

Between them, these three vehicles accountedforjustoverhalfoftotalMazdasales in 2023 and were a major factor in the brand being locked solidly into second place behind Toyota in total sales.

CX-30 was given a minor upgrade in late 2023 that included improved connectivity and fuel efficiency, together with a new model grade, the GT SP.

The CX-30 now comes with five equipment levels, in ascending order: Pure, Evolve, Touring, GT SP and Astina.

Prices range from $33,290 for the Pure FWD through to $47,390 for an X25 Astina AWD. On-road costs need to be added.

Styling

CX-30 has quite a conservative design which is likely to appeal more to owners at the older end of the age-scale. The shape is similar to the Mazda3 hatch but 100mm taller with 25mm extra ground clearance.

Although technically an SUV it has a sporty profile that’s almost coupe like.

At the front there are swooping headlamps flanking a large black version of the current Mazda family grille with an attractive textured fill. All variants get daytime running lights, LED in the Astina, halogen in the others.

The new GT SP gains a sleeker, more sporty appearance with exterior styling enhancementsintheformofblackalloywheels, a black front grille and mirror caps finished in piano black.

The entry-level CX-30 Pure comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, all higher-grade models roll on 18s.

Outthebacktherearewraparoundtail-lights, small roof spoiler, twin exhaust pipes and black plastic in the bumper.

Nine colours are available, five of them metallic are costed options.

Interior

The quality of the cabin has taken the CX-30 to a new level. The driver benefits from a high seating position and auto dimming rear-view mirror. The leather-clad steering wheel offers a comfortable grip, plus paddle shifts and the air vents are angled to the driver, servicing the dual zone air-conditioning.

Versatilestorageincludesagood-sizedcentre console, and a space below the fascia thanks to theuptakeofanelectricparkingbrake,plusbig door bins.

The dashboard isn’t as expansive as others in the segment but is well laid out and easy to read.Welovethefactthatitresistedthecurrent trend of locating almost all controls in screens by the use of physical knobs for adjusting air conditioning and audio.

Pure and Evolve have manual black cloth seats. The others have two different grades of leather (black and burgundy) and 10-way power adjustment.

Versatilestorageincludesagood-sizedcentre console, and a space below the fascia thanks to theuptakeofanelectricparkingbrake,plusbig door bins.

In the back, CX-30 has good headroom but legroom for taller passengers could be a problem. The smallish centre-rear seat is not unusual in this size class in that it’s hampered for footroom by the central tunnel.

There are air vents and a fold-down centre armrest with twin drink holders.

Bootspaceis317litreswiththerearseatbacks folded. A space-saver wheel is stored under the boot floor.

Engines/transmissions

CX-30 offers either a Skyactiv-G 2.0-litre, or Skyactiv 2.5-litre petrol engine, mated with a six-speed Skyactiv automatic transmission, plus front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

RATINGS

Looks: 7/10

Performance: 8/10

Safety: 9/10

Thirst: 8/10

Practicality: 8/10

Comfort: 7/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 8/10

The 2.0-litre Skyactive-G 2.0 generates 114 kW at 6000 rpm and 200 Nm at 4000 revs is available with all spec levels apart from the Touring SP.

Two variants, the Evolve G20e M and X20 Astina e-Skyactiv are mild hybrids and share the G 2.0 engine with a 24V lithium-ion battery.

The larger Skyactiv-G 2.5 engine has a 2.5-litre capacity with outputs of 139 kW at 6000 rpm and 252 Nm at 4000. It is available in the FWD or AWD Astina spec-level as well as Touring and Touring SP, AWD only.

The previous entry-level Pure came with a six-speed manual gearbox option but that was dropped with the latest upgrade and all models now have a six-speed torque converter automatic.

Infotainment

The top spec Astina and GT SP variants each get a 10.25-inch colour display. All below have an 8.8-inch centre screen. Note that neither is a touchscreen but rather the control system uses a rotary dial and accompanying buttons, situated on the centre console.

It’s large enough and within easy reach of the driver to minimise the amount of time taken away from looking at the road ahead.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wired in the Pure and Evolve, wireless in all other models. Likewise, there are USB-A ports in Pure and Evolve and USB-C ports and wireless charging above.

Satellite navigation is standard across the CX-30 range.

Safety

Mazda has a long-standing and admirable focus on safety and this continues in the CX-30 which achieved one of the highest ANCAP crash scores to date, with 99 per cent in adult occupant protection.

All variants come with a comprehensive list of safety features including seven airbags (now with a driver’s knee bag), autonomous emergencybrakinginbothforwardandreverse, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control with stop/go, lane-keep assist, traffic sign recognition, rear parking sensors, reversing camera, advanced speed assist system and IsoFix child seat anchorages.

The higher-spec models add a 360-degree view monitor, cruising and traffic support (traffic jam assist), front cross-traffic alert, driver monitoring and front parking sensors.

These latter features are available in other variants with an optional Vision Technology Pack.

Driving

Entry is relatively easy and the seats are supportive and comfortable. The steering wheel is height and reach adjustable and, even in the base level Pure, has leather wrapping as does the gear lever.

The 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine in our test Evolve lacks sharpness of the a turbocharger in the at 2.5 although the six-speed automatic worked well and had the SUV country cruising with confidence.

The new-generation Skyactiv Vehicle Architecture contributes towards excellent ride

quality and interior sound levels. Coarse-chip surfaces do increase noise levels although not to the same extent as others in this class.

Handling is accurate and the steering wheel provides the right amount of feedback.

Cornering is accurate enough, but this is not a sports sedan, and is certainly not claiming to be one.

Fuel consumption on our test route sat in the nine to ten litres per hundred kilometres in suburban, motorway and rural segments. It dropped to just over the claimed 6.5 L/100km.

Summing up

The CX-30 was the first Mazda model to adopt the two-digit suffix which was introduced to highlight the brand’s aim of pushing into the premium segment and competing against the big-name Europeans. It has subsequently been joined by the similarly-sized MX-30 together with CX-60, CX-70, CX-80 and CX-90 larger SUVs.

The CX-30 is a pleasant car to ride in and to drive. It’s built to Mazda’s usual high quality with a semi-premium feel, neat styling and, though not the cheapest in its class, offers good value for money.

It also achieved one of the highest ANCAP crash scores to date, achieving 99 per cent in adult occupant protection.

Like all new Mazda vehicles, the CX-30 comes with a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, as well as five years of Mazda Premium Roadside Assistance. Service intervals are every 10,000km or 12 months, whichever comes first.

The CX-30 is a pleasant car to ride in and to drive. (Pictures: Supplied)

There was plenty of action on the sporting fields on Saturday and Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the football, netball and soccer action.

Action from around the grounds

1/ William Thornton-Gielen. 09292_19

Michael Sdregas. 409297_02

Lachlan Evans and Dean Halliwell. 409294_02

Sunbury Lions against Coburg Districts. 409288_06 7/ Melton Centrals against Kyneton. 409292_39 8/ Balmoral in action. 409297_04 9/ Marcus D’Angelo. 409294_04

Devils continue to turn up the heat in the BNL

Things are travelling along nicely for Darley in the Ballarat Netball League.

Last season’s runners-up had some changes in the off season and have gone with a bit of younger line up, but it’s done little to halt the Devils.

After six rounds the Devils are undefeated, with their wins including victories against North Ballarat and the Sunbury Lions, who are both expected to be among the mix.

Devils coach Di McCormack said they were really happy with how things were going along so far.

“They are training really hard and nearly all the A-grade side are at training and working together,” she said.

“It has been really good. We haven’t just bought in players. Anna Lawley has been a great pick up, but her partner is set to be at the club as well.

“They are gelling really well. We haven’t even had Shannon [Blackman] play.

McCormack said one of the most pleasing things was seeing the development of some of the younger players.

She highlighted Jaimee Smith who has been in the A-grade the last couple of years and is now getting consistent minutes.

Ella Closter. (Ljubica

Another is Lucy Taylor, who is in her first year in A-grade, and is getting more court time than she expected.

The other is Ella Closter, who is showing she

can play both goal shooter and goal attack.

“This group listens really well,” she said.

“They’re learning to work the ball really well.” McCormack said while they’re happy with

Bloods rebound to win

By Tara Murray

Melton found the perfect way to respond from itsfirstlossoftheseason,withabigwinagainst Darley on Saturday in the Ballarat Football League.

Having started the season well, the Bloods are starting to get some big tests come their way. They didn’t come much bigger than defending champions, Darley on Saturday Both teams entered the game on the back of a loss.

The Bloods flew out of the blocks and led by six goals at quarter time and were able to still hold a four goal lead at half time.

The second half was all the Bloods on the scoreboard, kicking the only seven goals of the half to win, 16.8 (104)-5.6 (36).

Bloods coach Troy Scoble said the group had responded perfectly from the week before.

“Wegotintothemindsetthatyoulearnfrom losses and we were able to do that during the week,” he said.

“Win or loss this week the way we trained after the loss was really strong and we would learn a lot from this week.

“The competition is so even and both sides are competitive and it’s good to get the result.”

Scoble said they changed a few things during the week which they were able to implement.

He said they’ve struggled against Darley in the last couple of years, so they wanted to change it up.

While the scoreboard showed a big win to the Bloods, Scoble said the game didn’t feel like that.

“The effort and pressure around the ball was really good and we played well in other areas,” he said.

“It was similar to some of our other games against time spots, it was pretty even but we were able to have a bit more of an impact in front of goal.”

Braedan Kight kicked seven goals for the Bloods and said his kicking was one of the big differences between the sides.

He said it was a really strong team performance which was pleasing.

For the Devils, Adam Azzopardi was named their best.

ThewinkeepstheBloodsinsecondspotonly behind the undefeated Sunbury Lions. Scoble said they were pretty happy with the start to the season.

“It’s a new game style in place,” he said. “We’ve won four out five games against some strong side and we’re happy with where we did.

“There is a long way to go and a lot of improvement in what we want to try to put in place.

“We’re in the right direction.”

The Bloods this week face Lake Wendouree. In other results, Melton South lost to

how things are tracking, there’s still things that they can improve on.

She said the end to the game against the Sunbury Lions, which they won by four goals, was a case and point of that.

“We should have won that game by eight,” she said. “We had four fantastic turnovers in the last minute and turned the ball straight back by rushing.

“It’s a bit of a habit and we did it in the grand final last year. We get flustered. It’s something we’re aware of and that we need to work on.”

The Devils this week faced Melton. They were able to come way with another win, beating the Bloods, 61-33.

Ella Closter shot 34 goals for the Devils to lead all scorers on court.

For the Bloods, Kimberley Philipps shot 20 goals.

The Devils sit top, while the Bloods are in ninth spot.

Meanwhile, Melton South beat Sebastopol 48-40.

Tahnysha Salanoa shot 24 goals for the Panthers.

The Panthers sit in second spot.

Tara Murray

O’Sullivan celebrates his first metro win

Young reinsman Sean O’Sullivan achieved a career milestone when he landed his first metropolitan win after Angus Indiana completed a hat trick of wins in the Logical Staffing Solutions Pace Final at Melton.

O’Sullivan allowed Angus Indiana to lob along at the rear of the field before embarking on a three wide sojourn around the field with a lap to travel.

Despitecoveringextraground,Angus Indiana ($4.20) raced to the lead with 100 metres to travel and held on to score by a head from Silver Mystique with Im Wesley three metres away third.

O’Sullivan conceded it wasn’t an easy steer on the Scott Rains trained pacer.

“It was a bit of hard drive a hard race but it was worth it in the end, my first metro win,” O’Sullivan said.

O’Sullivan said the son of Heston Blue Chip overcame the inevitable mid race move.

“I was thinking when I got back to last that it’s going to be hard from here and I’m going to have to make a move at some point and that was the game plan going into the race,” he said.

“I didn’t really expect the favourite to go around again and sit outside and I was a bit worried at that point but once I got outside that horse he was full of running, even after going pretty hard that first half.

He went really good, real super.”

O’Sullivan said he was glad to retain the drive after steering the horse to victory at his previous outing.

“I won with him last start at Yarra Valley and Scotty rang me and told me that he would keep me on for the final and I was pretty pleased with that,” he said.

O’Sullivan cited the support he has received from trainer Glen Bull.

Sebastopol. The Burras jumped out of the blocks and led by 46 points at quarter time. It took until the second half for the Panthers to score a goal in the 15.17 (107)-4.10 (34) loss.

Bibby was named the Panthers best.

“It’s my best season so far, I think this is my 18th win and I’m happy that Glen has given me a go and it’s a big thrill for me,” he said.

The 22-year-old is the son of 2017 Gordon Rothacker Medallist and Hall Of Fame Inductee Jim O’Sullivan. John Dunne

Vrankovic). 409293_20

Jarrod

Braedan Kight kicked seven goals. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Thoroughbreds are back on the winners list

Melton Thoroughbreds are back on the winners list in the Big V men’s division 2 competition.

After dropping matches either side of a bye, the Thoroughbreds were able to turn it around against the Collingwood All Stars on Saturday night.

The travelling Stars started the better of the sides and led by four points at quarter.

The Thoroughbreds got going in the second quarter to turn the deficit into a six point lead at the main break.

It was goal for goal in the third quarter with the margin still at five points heading into the final quarter.

The Thoroughbreds were able to finish strongly to win the quarter and the game, 93-82.

Thoroughbreds coach Mick McCallum said in the end they wanted it a bit more.

“It definitely felt good,” he said. “We wanted it more and wanted to get back on the winners list.

“We’re still not playing great basketball at the moment.”

McCallum said they had to fight hard and were able to respond when they were challenged in the final quarter.

He said he did think for a little bit, not again after the last couple of games.

Every Thoroughbreds player got minutes on the court, as they looked to share it around.

Milan Savic top scored with 26 points.

The win moves the Thoroughbreds back up to second with a 7-3 record.

McCallum said they were leaps and bounds ahead of where they were 12 months ago.

He said a good off season and adding some more depth had been crucial.

One player who has helped with that is Jeff Crowe, who had retired from this level of basketball.

“He was hanging around training and one thing led to another,” McCallum said.

“He was interested, so how can you say no. He has been amazing even just having him on

the bench.

“He can talk everyone through things.”

The Thoroughbreds have a big test this Saturday, facing the Craigieburn Eagles in a top of the table clash.

McCallum said they had spoken about that game after the match. He said the aim for them was to finish in the top four.

In the youth league men’s division 2 competition, the Thoroughbreds fell just short against the Wallan Panthers.

Scores were level at quarter time before the Thoroughbreds led by six points at half time.

In the second half, the Panthers were able to do enough in each quarter to come away with a 76-68 win.

Tyson Hamilton top scored with 19 points as the rest of the starters struggled to hit the scoreboard.

The Thoroughbreds this week face the Pakenham Warriors on Saturday night and Gippsland United on Sunday.

Tara Murray

Gorton’s talent on show

By Peter Howe

Fifteen-year-old Ruby Gorton claims she was indoctrinated and had no choice but to play hockey because her parents were both hockey players and more recently coaches

It meant she spent endless hours around hockey clubs.

“I think I have karma on my side now with my parents spending their time taking me to club, regional and state training,” she laughed.

“I tried swimming and dancing but really, they had no chance of succeeding, I was ultimately passionate about playing hockey.

“I was four years old when I first picked up a stick. Dad was coaching so I either sat in the car bored or I picked up a hockey stick and played around.”

Gorton played her first competitive game when she was eight where there was just one other girl in the team.

“It made me very competitive because the boys wouldn’t pass to us, so we had to outperform them to get a starting position.”

Gorton’s skills blossomed in 2019 when she was selected in the School Sport Victoria under-12 team and the regional team, the Western Wildcats under-13s.

There were nearly 100 players trying out for the state team.

Gorton has now been selected in those teams every year including the 2024 where the teams were recently announced.

“This year I have been selected in both the under016 outdoor and indoor teams, and with changes in selection criteria I have made

the under-15 outdoor team to play at the Australian Games at the Gold Coast in June.”

Gortonbelievesitwasherclosestickcontrol and determination that lead to her selection in those teams.

“I play as an attacking midfielder,” she said. “I love scoring goals, over 100 to date. My level of fitness is also critical to my role.

“I have a personal best of seven minutes 30 seconds for 2km and a 2.35 for 800 metres and was recently named the ICCES [Independent Country Co-Educational Schools] under-16 champion at Lakeside Stadium.”

Gorton has been selected in Footscray’s women’s premier league team since she was 13, playing against women who are more than double her age, many of whom have Olympic representation.

Gorton also plays indoor hockey.

“Many state level players also play indoor,” shesaid.“Itisadifferentgame,fasterandhasa higher level of involvement on a smaller field.

“It’sverydifferent,Iprobablypreferoutdoor if I had to make a choice. I prefer the patterns of running in the outdoor game.”

Gorton is a naturally gifted leader. From her early years she has been in team leadership roles, including captain and vice-captain capacity in state, representative and club teams.

She said she enjoys being a role model.

“I want to be an inclusive leader and love being able to bring players together for a common goal.”

Gorton spends much of her week involved in hockey. She umpires on Saturdays, attends

an elite support program while working on her strength and conditioning three times a week.

There’s also training for state teams, training for juniors and seniors at Footscray.

Living in Eynesbury and going to school in Bacchus Marsh, it means a lot of time in the car.

“I often eat, sleep and complete my homework [in the car]”

Gorton puts her success down to a couple of things, one, the work she does away from structured hockey training by focusing on her fitness and the second is the coaching she receives from her Hockey Victoria High Performance coaches, Mitch Hayden and Milagros Arrotea.

Gorton has her sights clearly set on the 2032 Olympics.

“I do have some options though, I was born in England and I can also represent Scotland,” she mused.

“I would love to play in a professional hockey league when I finish school. There are leagues in the Netherlands and India now, who knows in the future.”

Gorton is the June Don Deeble award nominee.

The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers.

If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.

Diggers Rest sent a reminder to the rest of the Riddell District Football League, ending Riddell’s unbeaten start to the season.

The two powerhouses fought it out in the hard slog all day on Saturday, with scoring hard to come by. Having had the last two weeks off, the Burras were able to use their fresh legs to come home strong and win, 8.6 (54)-6.10 (46).

Burras co-coach Jamie Lobb was pretty happy to come away with the points.

“It was really good,” he said. “We haven’t played our best footy yet and had two weeks off to set ourselves up for this game.

“It was a weird game with how low scoring it was. It was highly contested and the ball was moving around quickly but there was a lack of scoring.”

Lobb said the amount of pressure there was around the ball, contributed to both sides struggling to hit the scoreboard.

In the end, he said their ability to run out quarters was the difference.

“Towards the end of each quarter we thought we’d be able to get them at the back end of the third and fourth quarter,” he said.

“We were able to kick a couple of goals late in the last quarter and played some smart footy.”

Mitchell Day and Brodie Meyers kicked two goals each for the Burras.

Lobb said ruck Hayden Davis was their standout.

“It was his best game for the club,” he said. “He played one out against Josh Grabham. Hopefully it’ll give him a bit of confidence and boost that he can play senior footy.”

For the Bombers, Dean Galea was the only multiple goalkicker, kicking two goals. Jesse Horton and Ben Sonogan were named their best.

The Bombers remain on top of the ladder ahead of the Burras and Romsey, but have played one extra game than both those sides.

Lobb said they have a good platform to set up their season.

“It wasn’t our best footy,” he said. “It was a good competitive game and we kept in the game when it wasn’t going away.”

The Burras face Kyneton this Saturday, before another weekend off due to the King’s Birthday bye.

Burras beat the Bombers

Melton Thoroughbreds Mick McCallum. (Jacob Pattison) 326150_11

Ruby Gorton (Clickinfocus)

Centrals building into season with strong results

ThingsarestartingtocometogetherforMelton Centrals in the Riddell District Netball League.

After a slow start to the season, Centrals have started to put some strong performances together.

OnSaturday,theyputtogethertheirstrongest four quarter performance against Kyneton.

Playing each other for the first time, Centrals jumped out of the blocks and led by 10 goals at quarter time.

The margin was out to 19 goals at half time.

Centrals were able to continue their momentum in the second half to win, 72-41.

Centrals coach Randy Pereira said they were starting to find their feet.

“It was our first clean sweep as well,” he said.

“In A-grade it was a really good win.

“It helped that Laura Bennie wasn’t in their side but I’m not sure how much of a difference it would have made.

“We have started slow, yesterday [Saturday] we were strong from start to finish. We started well and were able to increase the lead.”

Helen Aumua shot 36 goals for the Centrals.

Pereira said the young shooter had lifted her shooting massively since early in the season.

He said Elisa Butterworth-Gonebale has beenstartingtogelwiththesideaftermissinga couple of weeks while Avana Hobson has built into the season after breaking her finger just before round one.The win moves Centrals to fourth on the ladder with three wins and three losses.

Avana Hobson said he was pretty happy with how the group was going.

“We’re still very young,” he said. “We have three 17-year-olds, two 18-year-olds and a couple of 19-year-olds.

“We should have beaten Riddell. We were seven goals down at three quarter time and hit the front.

“We should have never been seven goals down to start with. The first two rounds we were awful and we’ve started to hit our straps.

Warriors stun Cougars

By Tara Murray

The Western Warriors produced one of its strongest performances of the Victorian Netball League championship season to knock off the Geelong Cougars.

Playing at home at Cobblebank Stadium in Melton for the second time on Friday night, it was a performance the Warriors had been working towards.

After starting off well, the Warriors were able to hold a lead throughout, winning 66-57.

Warriors coach Kim Bailey was thrilled with the performance.

“It was really pleasing for the girls to come out and play really well,” she said. “They played four quarters of consistent netball.

“There was a lull of about five minutes… But they stuck to the game plan which was good.” Bailey said despite it being a Friday night there was a really good crowd at Cobblebank and a really good atmosphere.

She said the group really enjoys playing at the court and bringing this quality netball to the local area.

The Warriors goalers continued to show they were finding form in a partnership.

KimBorgershot46goalswithjustonemiss, while Julia Woolley shot 20 at 100 per cent.

“To miss one goal for the game, that wins you the game,” Bailey said. “Juls missed last Sunday and had she played we might have got a win. They are two of the best goalers in the competition.”

“We had some awesome turnovers in the mid court which was really pleasing.”

Having lost to the Cougars back in round two by 23 goals, the Warriors created a 32 goal turnaround.

With the Cougars sitting around the top four, the performance was one of their best for the season and keeps them in touch with the top four

“If you compare the two games, it was completely different,” Bailey said. “The structures are different and we didn’t know each other.

“We are finally knowing what we are doing, I can’t be prouder. Geelong have set the benchmark along with the [City West] Falcons for so many years.

“There’s an aurora around them. A lot of girls have played for them and I’ve coached there, it was a great win.”

The win moves the Warriors to four wins of the season. They are one of three teams with that record.

The Warriors under-23s had a 55-34 loss to the Cougars.

Bailey said they still need to do some work

on making sure they put out a four quarter performance.

“The first three quarters they played well,” she said. “We capitulated in the last quarter.

“Weneedtoworkoutwhythisishappening. We’re a little perplexed why we can’t play 60

“Things are really good and the season is really close.”

Centrals this week face third placed Woodend-Hesket beat an understrength Romsey, 73-41.

Diggers Rest caused an upset, beating Riddell.

The Burras hosted Riddell and were slow out of the blocks.

The Bombers led by six goals at quarter time, but the margin was back to two goals at the main break.

Scores were level heading into the final quarter. It was goal for goal in the final quarter with the Burras winning 44-43.

Alice Sacco was best in the win for the Burras,whileFinnualaMcKeagney-Stubbshad a strong game for the Bombers.

Macedon beat Lancefield in the other game. Tara Murray

Sports shorts

VPL

Caroline Springs had to settle for a draw with Werribee City in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition on Friday night. Neither side was able to score in the first half with both players having a player sent from the field during the game. Both sides were able to convert penalty goals to finish locked at 1-1. Thomas Biss was the goal scorer for the Georgies. The Georgies sit in 11th spot with 16 points.

FV

Melton Phoenix had a difficult hit out against the Keilor Wolves in FV state league 4 west. Keen to cement its spot in the top part of the ladder, the Phoenix trailed 2-1 at half time. After the break it was all the Wolves, who came away with a 4-1 win. Meanwhile, Westside Strikers lost to Balmoral 3-1. The Phoenix remain in third spot, but are now five points behind the Wolves, but have played one less game. The Strikers sit in seventh.

EDFL

Hillside and Burnside Heights continued on their winning ways in the Essendon District Football League competition. In division 1, the Sharks smashed Keilor Park, 28.12 (180)-10.8 (68) in the battle between top and bottom. Josh Covelli kicked 13 goals in a best on ground performance. In division 2, Burnside Heights had to fight hard for the points against the Sunbury Kangaroos. The Bears did most of the damage in the second quarter to win, 15.8 (98)-11.8 (74).

WFL

Caroline Springs returned back to earth in the Western Football League division 1 competition. After four straight wins, the Lakers lost to Point Cook on Saturday, 13.8 (86)-7.20 (62). Mitchell Bongiovanni was named his side’s best in the loss. The Lakers slip to third with the loss. In division 2, Western Rams lost to Albanvale, 9.9 (63)-5.7 (37).

minutes of netball.”

Bailey said one pleasing aspect was getting

Eliza Gollant back from a knee injury.

The Warriors play the Peninsula Waves on Wednesday night. In the championship division, the Waves sit bottom.

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Kim Borger (Netball Victoria/Grant Treeby)

Mariah Vankerkvoot. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_409291_13