Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 25th June 2024

By Hannah Hammoud

A ground-breaking national campaign promoting the HPV self-collection option for cervical screening is helping bring empowerment and choice to women’s health acrossAustralia.

This initiative aims to address health equity by reaching under-screened populations, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, culturally and linguistically diverse communities (CALD), and patients withdisabilities.

The National Cervical Screening Program

encourages women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 74 years of age to have a cervical screening test every five years through their healthcare provider, in a bid to reduce illness anddeathfromcervicalcancer.

The Cancer Council details that self-collectioniswhenawomanorpersonwith a cervix takes their own sample for cervical screening. A health care professional provides a cotton swab as well as instructions on how to collect the sample. A private place is also offeredtocollectthesample.

The Department of Health and Aged Care reports that about 800 women are diagnosed

with cervical cancer in Australia each year, and about 70 per cent of these cases occur in women who have never screened or were not up-to-datewiththeirscreening.

GenWest sexual and reproductive health team leader Sarah Lorrimar said the initiative willhelptobridgethegapincervicalscreening participationamongdiversepopulations.

“It’s going to make a huge difference to how many people are accessing a cervical screen,” she said. “Cervical screens can be uncomfortable for anyone. For most people, going and getting a cervical screen isn’t the mostpleasantexperiencebutthenthere’sother

Women’s Health Matters

Star Weekly is shining a light on the healthcare issues facing women in the western and northern suburbs.

Over the next 12 months, our ‘Women’s Health Matters’ campaign will focus on the challenges facing women, including access to specialised and preventative healthcare, the availability of culturally appropriate healthcare and the adequacy of mental health services. We hope the campaign will help to raise awareness of critical healthcare issues for women and advocate for underserved communities in the west and north, particularly those in fringe suburbs and from minority communities.

We want to empower women in the north-west to address their healthcare needs.

Included in the campaign will be stories of resilience highlighting personal accounts of women who have overcome health challenges, advocacy initiatives, community engagement and collaborations with healthcare organisations.

We also want to hear from you about your individual healthcare experiences. If you have a story you would like to share, please get in touch via westeditorial@starweekly.com.au

people where the process actually makes them feel unsafe and has emotional and physical effects on them too. There are people that have had medical trauma and sexual trauma that the process of getting a cervical screen can be extremely daunting for them and being able to self-collect means that they’ve got a greater senseofsafety,comfort,andcontrol.”

Ms Lorrimar said for women who have undergone female genital cutting, the traditional cervical screening process can be particularlydaunting.

■ Continued: Page 9.

Highly trained professionals are taking care of women’s health in the west every day. (Picture courtesy: Royal Women’s Hospital)

Crime up in Melton, Moorabool

By Eddie Russell

Recorded criminal offences increased in Melton and Moorabool in the 12 months to March, new data reveals.

According to the Crime Statistics Agency, the number of recorded offences in Melton rose by 8.9 per cent, from 12,146 in March 2023 to 13,227 in March 2024.

Moorabool recorded a 21 per cent increase from 2185 to 2644 during the same period.

A Victoria Police spokesperson said the increase in crime in Melton was largely due to a rise in property offences, including car

thefts, and retail store thefts.

There were 1331 steal from motor vehicle offences record in Melton in the year to March, up from 1027 the previous year.

Retail store thefts rose from 441 to 762 during the same period.

Melton recorded a drop in breaches of family violence orders, from 1883 in the 12 months to March 2023, to 1438 in the year to March 2024.

“The number of family violence order breaches remain high as police continue to proactively target perpetrators and hold them to account,” the police spokesperson.

“Our message to those experiencing family violence is clear – when you are ready to come forward, we will be here to listen and support you.”

In Moorabool, family violence order breaches went up to 406 offences compared to 304 at the same time last year.

Another Victoria Police spokesperson said that police in the Moorabool area were putting particular emphasis on preventing family violence.

“Family violence remains a top priority for police, and an increase in order breaches can be attributed to the proactive work of family

New power line could close airfield

The operator of the Melton airfield fears it will be forced to close if AusNet proceeds with plans to install power lines at the end of the main runway.

As reported by Star Weekly , AusNet is planning to install overhead high-voltage electricity transmission lines over 190-kilometres across western Victoria as part of the Western Renewables Link. AusNet is currently preparing studies which will be lodged as part of the project’s environmental effects statement (EES).

Melton Air Services operator Evan Reeve said recent work carried out in the area by AusNet revealed that the transmission lines

would come “within 100 feet of airborne planes”.

“With a power line of that magnitude so close to the runway … it becomes a safety issue, especially with trainee pilots,” he said.

“There’s no margin for error at all.”

Mr Reeve said the wires, which would run across the flight path at the end of the runway, were hardly visible.

“You can see the towers but you can’t see the lines. I think the last thing on your mind [when flying] is remembering to dodge these things.”

Mr Reeve said the plan would impact his livelihood and that he is already out of pocket.

“I’ve got $100,000 of legal expenses from… engaging solicitors to talk to AusNet’s solicitors and getting reports done.”

An AusNet spokesperson said the company has engaged aviation experts to prepare a report as part of the EES and was figuring out the best way to move forward before the transmission lines are put in place.

“We are continuing to work with Mr Reeve to understand his concerns and help mitigate potential impacts to his business as planning for the Western Renewables Link progresses,” the spokesperson said.

Eddie Russell

violence investigation unit detectives,” the spokesperson said.

“Detectives are regularly knocking on the doors of perpetrators to ensure offenders know they are being monitored and breaches are more easily identified.”

The top three suburbs for crime in MooraboolwereBacchusMarsh(897offences), Darley (592offences) , and Maddingley (328 offences).

Rounding out Melton’s top three suburbs was Melton (2008 offences), Caroline Springs (1374 offences) and Melton South (1286 offences).

Children on the move in Melton

Primary schools students in Melton will be encouraged to strap on their helmets and lace up their shoes by a new state government initiative.

The Kids Active Travel Program will see Melton schools increase the number of students that walk, scoot, and ride to and from school.

Theprogramwillintroduceeducation sessions, awareness campaigns, and the installation of travel facilities like bike parking and storage to local schools in the area.

Melton MP Steve McGhie said it would equip the next generation with the tools to live healthily and prioritise positive routines.

“This new program will help local Melton kids get active before and after school by riding, walking or scooting to and from school,” he said.

“Incorporating exercise into the daily school trip will help kids learn healthy habits without adding a lot of time into Melton families busy schedules.”

The initiative will also take place in Hume, Geelong and Bendigo.

Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence said the government was aiming to set up young people to live better.

“We’re determined to reverse the trend of one in four kids not getting enough exercise – walking, scooting or riding a bike to school is a great active way for kids to start the day.”

Resident pleads for ‘third world country’ road to be fixed

A Mt Atikson resident has called for upgrades to Hopkins Road, likening the major thoroughfare to a dirt road.

Resident Manish Baisoya said the 8.4-kilometre long stretch between the Western Freeway and Doherty’s Road needs a complete resurfacing and four additional lanes.

“It’s become a very dangerous bottleneck … there are some sections that are to a rural standard,” he said.

“Sometimes you feel like you are living in a third world country.

“I am from New Delhi … in terms of

transport the local roads there are in a much better state than what we have here.”

Mr Baisoya said the number of potholes on Hopkins Road made it like driving on a ‘dirt road’.

“This is such an important arterial road –it’s connected to freeways and people use it to get to both Wyndham and Melton,” he said.

However, a state government spokesperson saidrecentworkson1.4kilometresofHopkins Road had improved conditions.

“We’ve completed resurfacing works along Hopkins Road as part of our current maintenance program, delivering safer,

smoother journeys for thousands of drivers each day,” the spokesperson said.

Mr Baisoya said previous repairs on Hopkins Road had only been ‘Band-Aid’ solutions.

“They fix it and it goes back to the same conditions soon after,” he said.

However, he acknowledged results would not come overnight as Mt Atkinson residents also advocate for other necessary infrastructure projects in the area.

“It’s going to take a long time because it’s not just the road we are fighting the battle for – we have active petitions for a train station

and bus routes,” he said.

The opening of a train station would significantly alleviate the traffic in the area and offer a preferable outcome to many, Mr Baisoya said.

“It has a domino effect on the freeways and on local roads … if I had the option I would take the train and there are many people like me [who feel the same],” he said.

“There are already 30,000 residents within five kilometres of the proposed Mt Atkinson train station.”

Eddie Russell

Evan Reeves says the proposed installation of transmission lines in front of the runway would shut down Melton airfield (Damjan Janevski) 414725_01

Cashless Eynesbury backlash

By Eddie Russell

Cashless trading has been introduced in Eynesbury but one local believes the move will alienate some sections of the community.

As of Monday, June 24, all businesses within Eynesbury Quarter, which is operated by developer Resimax Group, do not accept cash as a payment method. This includes The General Convenience Store, Ms Peacock Kitchen & Bar, Birdy & Co Cafe, and the Golf Pro Shop.

Resimax Group said its analysis of

transaction data from all Eynesbury Quarter businesses indicated only 11 per cent of customers pay with cash.

Eynesbury resident Anna Madigan said the move is not considerate of all those in the community.

“It’s discrimination against the elderly and the children because it’s blocking them from making purchases at their local stores,” she said.

“Not everybody can pay by card.”

Ms Madigan said some of those affected, including her mother, did not have the

technological know-how to adapt to the change.

“I won’t be able to take her for a meal at the local restaurant any more because she doesn’t have a choice,” she said.

“Children can’t even go to the milk bar anymore because parents aren’t going to give their kids the credit cards.”

A Resimax spokesperson said that they did not want to dismiss the agency of elderly Eynesbury residents.

“We recognise the challenges some age groups may face with technology changes.

New tanker for Caroline Springs

Caroline Springs Fire Brigade has a new heavy tanker in operation, enhancing firefighting capabilities and bolstering the safety of volunteer firefighters.

Caroline Springs captain Anthony Jenkins said the new heavy tanker is a next generation tanker and will enhance the brigade’s ability to serve the community.

“It has additional water carrying capacity, it’s higher off the ground and it has better capabilities as far as four wheel drive and off road vehicles,” he said. “It’s much easier for our members to operate and it’s a lot safer with new rollover protection cages.

“We trained tirelessly for weeks so that we’d be ready to use it as soon as it was handed to us.”

The Caroline Springs Fire Brigade has 51

members, 40 male and 11 female, with 28 operational members who respond to more than 450 call outs each year.

The brigade assists with incidents including grass and scrub fires, bushfires, house fires, road accidents and floods.

The heavy tanker has a modern interface, and is equipped with the latest safety features including a 4000-litre water tank, and rollover and burn-over protection to ensure volunteers are protected inside the vehicle.

Valued at $460,000, the tanker has an electric rewind hose reel to increase efficiency and reduce volunteer fatigue.

The dual cab capacity means more crew memberscansitinsidethecabin,keepingthem safe from high temperatures.

Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch joined

Free RSPCA service offers

Melton pet owners relief

Pet owners in Melton will be able to access a special RSPCA service on Thursday, June 27. Healthy Pet Day will take place at Melton South Community Centre and will run from 10am – 4pm.

The free check up is led by RSPCA experts and covers a broad scope of issues.

RSPCA Victoria community outreach manager, Dr Lauren Roberts, said the appointments were beneficial for both animal and person.

“These services are completely free … and would cost over $150 all up per animal,” she said.

“We want to keep the local pets happy and healthy for years to come, and pet owners in

need will have access to … the best possible service thanks to our friendly vets, vet nurses and animal behaviourists.”

Dr Roberts said the healthy pet day offers a range of services.

“Our expert animal care team provides vaccines, pet check-ups, microchipping, flea and worm treatment, along with behavioural advice, resources, and pet food.”

Everyanimalrequiresaseparateappointment to ensure they receive the care they need. Cats mustbeinasecurecarrycageanddogsmustbe on a lead. Attendees must be over 18, a resident within the Melton municipality, and have a valid concession or health care card.

Bookings: rspcavic.org/healthypet/

members of the Caroline Springs Fire Brigade and representatives from the Country Fire Authority (CFA) to officially hand over the new appliance and thank volunteers for their work.

“It’s a pleasure to officially hand over the heavy tanker to the Caroline Springs Fire Brigade,” she said.

“This deserving brigade is now better equipped to respond to fires and protect the community.”

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said tankers are a vital part of CFA’s fleet.

“The new tankers are state-of-the-art firefighting vehicles and we’re committed to providing our volunteers with the best and safest infrastructure,” he said.

Gerald Lynch

However, it would be dangerous to assume that members of our ageing population cannot learn and use new technology,” the spokesperson said.

“By embracing innovation as a business, we can ensure that we cater to the needs of the people who live in our communities in an efficient and effective way.”

Resimax cited RMIT research, which predicts that a cashless society in Australia is inevitable, and new government legislation for occupational health and safety as reasons for the move.

Women of Melton can now register to partake in the Daughters of the West health and fitness sessions.

The free 10-week program is delivered in partnership with Western Bulldogs Community Foundation and Melton council, and will begin next month.

Cobblebank sessions will begin Tuesday, July 16 and run from 10am–noon at Cobblebank Stadium.

In Fraser Rise, sessions will start Wednesday, July 17 at 6.30–8.30pm and take place at Fraser Rise Children’s and Community Centre.

Mayor Kathy Majdlik said that those eligible should be encouraged to join in by the many benefits of the program.

“Daughters of the West has inspired local women to make healthier changes and improve their lifestyles,” she said.

“It’s a great way to get expert advice and support for improving your health and wellbeing while making some friends along the way.”

Participants must be over the age of 18 and live or work in the Melton municipality.

Women of all fitness levels can take part in exercise under the guidance of trained staff, with groups to cater for a range of abilities.

Details: melton.vic.gov.au/ daughtersofthewest

Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch with representatives from Caroline Springs CFA. (Supplied)

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Two fines, one infringement

By Eddie Russell

A Kurunjang couple has been fined twice for the same offence by Melton council because their rental property is listed in both their names.

Solomon Hayle-Mesfin and his wife, Sara Ewetnu, were initially fined $600, but now have to pay over $1200 because they are both named as the owners of the house.

Mr Hayle-Mesfin said the result was both

confusing and unfair.

“We pay one land tax, one council rate, and one water service, so why two infringements?” he said.

“I’ve been in Australia for 20 years and I’ve never heard such kinds of things.”

Mr Hayle-Mesfin initially received an infringement notice for $100 for ‘failing to ensurenaturestripismaintainedinaccordance with local law’.

A further $500 was added for ‘failing to

comply to notice to comply’, due to the property’s tenants failing to meet an extension date set by council.

Mr Hayle-Mesfin said tenants could not complete the necessary gardening due to heavy rain in December.

An average of 79 millimetres of rain fell on Victoria that month, the highest rainfall total for December since 2017.

Following this, Ms Ewetnu received a separate fine for the same two infringements.

Scouts recycle to get to Queensland

Bacchus Marsh Scout Group is raising money to send its members to Queensland for a major national Scouts event.

And it is doing it through the container deposit scheme (CDS) stations found all over the Moorabool region, at which residents have recycled more than three million containers since November 2023.

The scout group is aiming to raise $3000 to send six youths to the Australian Jamboree, which will take place in January 2025.

Bacchus Marsh Scout Group leader Damien Hodges said the camp was the “pinnacle” of

everything that members learn, but getting there was not easy.

“It’s the culmination of all they’ve learnt on their scout journey,” he said.

“With the cost of living at the moment we are trying to do a lot of fundraising to help our youth get up there and participate.”

Entry to the Jamboree is $2600 for one participant.

People who recycle their containers can choose to donate their refunds to Bacchus Marsh Scout Group by downloading the CDS app and selecting the group as the charity of

choice.

So far, $239 has been raised.

Mr Hodges said the efforts were an investment in the future leaders of Moorabool.

“What we put in now in developing them will pay dividends … to our whole community moving forward,” he said.

“Scouting programs really focus on development of youth … in physical, cultural, and spiritual growth areas.”

Eddie Russell

A council spokesperson said council was within its rights to fine the couple individually for the matter.

“If the required works are not carried out, both property owners may be fined on the basis that they are individually responsible for compliance in relation to the property they own,” the spokesperson said.

The dispute has left Mr Hayle-Mesfin feeling ‘very disappointed’ and ‘upset’.

RSL says thanks

The Bacchus Marsh RSL Sub-Branch wishes to give our sincere thanks to the community for their continued support during our recent Anzac Day Commemoration Services.

We conducted not only a Dawn Service, but services at aged care and sporting facilities, the Coimadai War Memorial and a presentation at Bacchus Marsh College.

In excess of 5000 residents attended these moving services which are growing every year.

We also say a sincere thank you to our community for buying an Anzac token and the giving of donations. These funds go to supporting our current and ex-service members. This ongoing support is needed and greatly appreciated.

As a way of saying ‘Thank you’ we invite the community to a free barbecue on Saturday, June 29 commencing at 10.30am – 2pm. We also invite you to come into the RSL to join us for a cup of tea/coffee and view our memorabilia spanning over 100 years. Service members will be there to answer any questions you may have. Come and see if you have a relative on one of our service boards. We also encourage you to consider becoming a member of the Bacchus Marsh RSL Sub-Branch. We have three tiers of membership, service, affiliate and social. There will be someone available to explain the membership options and what we are able to offer to the community. We look forward to seeing you all at the barbecue, even if only for a sausage and a quick chat! Once again, we say, Thank you!

Lest We Forget

Melbourne Rebels departure impacts school academy

The ripple effect of discontinuing Super Rugby club Melbourne Rebels will be felt as far as Melton.

The Melbourne Rebels support Academy Movement, an organisation which sets up elite sporting programs in schools to help students from underprivileged backgrounds engage with education.

Melton Secondary College is home to the first academy,which startedthreeyearsagoand focuses on rugby union.

FounderanddirectorofAcademyMovement, Jimmy Orange, said that the disbanding of the

club will likely impact future projects.

“We had some pretty big plans in the future which are in doubt now with the Rebels’ licence being taken away,” he said.

“It was a team that was continuing to try and grow community presence and it’s tough to see them pulled away from that.”

Mr Orange said the partnership with Melbourne Rebels was a major source of inspiration for students.

“There’s obviously a massive sense of pride forkidstogettowearthelogoofaprofessional team.”

A key focus of the program is to explore the scope of careers that can be enjoyed in sport.

Mr Orange said it was this “point of difference” which helps students look forward to life beyond school.

“We have gone on excursions to AAMI Park to not only see the players up close, but more importantly, spend the day meeting people behind the scenes.”

These behind-the-scenes operators included gameday managers, strength and conditioning coaches, performance analysts, and even CEOs.

Mr Orange said these experiences translate to the classroom and are helping students shape a better future for themselves.

“Record numbers of year 12s from Pacific backgrounds are graduating from VCE pathways and now looking at tertiary education,” he said.

“Rugby union values respect and discipline and that is sometimes what our students need toengageinschoolandbecomebetterstudents overall.”

Eddie Russell

Elliot and Stuart from Bacchus Marsh Scout Group at a local CDS depot (Damien Hodges)

Getting health right for women

By Associate Professor Ines Rio

Being a woman often feels really tough. It can be hard on your body: periods, pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause. It can be hard on your mental health: the load of caring for children, ageing parents, finances, making a happy home and lives for others. And the juggle of it all.

This is all made harder by less pay for the same work, less superannuation, and more unpaid work compared with men. It is expected that we bear the burden of what is needed in a family and shoulder the lion’s share of effort when things go awry.

We have less power, less of a voice. We are less heard. And all of this is exacerbated if you have a disability, don’t speak English, are parenting alone, experience trauma or violence or have a partner who doesn’t respect you as an equal.

We so often eat the burnt toast, take the smaller portion of food, spend money on our kids and forsake our own desires. We pay too little attention to our health needs, leave our cancerscreeningtoolateandputupwithwhat we wouldn’t want our daughters to endure.

There is an overdue conversation about women’s health and wellbeing happening now. It highlights the high prevalence and wide-ranging harm of family violence, and that our health and social system is gendered against women.

It is a system that pays doctors better to have

lots of short consultations rather than fewer longer ones, where they can deeply listen to women’s complex and often multiple health concerns.

Women tell us they often don’t feel listened to, and their health issues are diagnosed late.

Screening breakthrough

The GenWest team includes Family and Reproductive Rights Education Program (FARREP) workers who have long advocated for a more sensitive screening method.

“Now that there’s the option of a cervical screen that they can self-collect without the speculum that makes it much easier for people and is a much more safer process,” she said.

The Australian Centre for the Prevention of Cervical Cancer (ACPCC) is playing a pivotal role in the campaign by delivering healthcare provider education. This education focuses on the importance of self-collection and how to support patients through the process.

Ms Lorrimar said it is necessary that healthcare providers are well-informed and proactive.

“Because people don’t know what they don’t know,” she said.

“Being given healthcare information is really important and I think it’s essential for healthcare professionals to provide that information to people so that they can be proactive with their healthcare, to look after their bodies and know what to look out for when things don’t seem right.

“It’s also really important for healthcare professionals – particularly in Melbourne’s west. It’s such a diverse community that I think healthcare professionals also need to keep upskillingandmakingsurethey’refiguringout new ways to best work with all those different communities … it’s really important that healthcare professionals provide a safe space and are forthright with a lot of information around things like screening.”

The federal government reported that more than 315,000 women had self-collected as of March, with 27 per cent of screening tests done that way.

The option to self-screen has been particularly positive for people who have never screened or are overdue, with one in three first-time screeners and 40 per cent of overdue screeners taking up the self-collection option, the government said.

For more information on the National Cervical Screening Program and to access translated resources, visit: https://shorturl.at/ lLDIi

Translated resources can be found at: https:// shorturl.at/DdrNM

Healthcare providers can find additional resources and webinars at: https://shorturl.at/ znjnj

childcare, work is hard, and finances and independence get even harder. It’s not all doom and gloom. There are often joys to our gender. Think of more and deeper familyandsocialrelationships,thejoyofbeing a mother or daughter, being the lynchpin of a family, and often of a community, and viewing success as much broader than money and career.

And there are some welcome changes happening. There is longer maternity leave, companies are required to report on gender pay gap, and provide greater support for women experiencing violence.

And at last, minimum wages are increasing in some our most feminised workforce, such as aged care.

But to achieve equity for women and improve women’s lot, we need more changes across society, including our health, social, housing, education and work systems. As a doctor, I have loads of ideas about what we need. But the solutions shouldn’t be led by doctors. They need to be driven by all women. Star Weekly is running a series on women’s health – what keeps women well, what makes them unwell, what help they need, what stops them getting this help, and what would work to break down those barriers. When has the right help changed their world?

I applaud the newspaper group for this initiative. For if we get it right for women, we get it right for everyone.

Research is mainly done on men and only then applied to women.

Women too frequently don’t have financial and housing stability, without which it’s almost impossible to be healthy and properly address illness. And without good, affordable

* Associate Professor Ines Rio is a working GP. She is also a member of the National Women’s Health Advisory Council, Chief Medical Officer at Monash University, the Chair of North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network’s Board, the Deputy Chair of Sexual Health Victoria and an advisor to the TherapeuticGoodsAdministration.

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Associate Professor Ines Rio. (Supplied)

■ From page 1.

Sexual and reproductive health team leader Sarah Lorrimar. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413208_06

Portraits

of college unity

Heathdale Christian College’s Melton campus celebrated its 10th anniversary in style, hosting a special exhibition night.

The school’s gallery space was decked out with portraits of the teachers by year 11 students.

Organised by art teacher Hannah Cutter, the exhibition was inspired by the Archibald Prize, a prestigious national art award.

Ms Cutter said that while took some time for students to warm up to the project.

“The students were shocked at first to find out that they would be following the process of such an award,” she said.

“They were quite daunted and scared, but once they started working on their pieces, they embraced it.”

Ms Cutter said the success of the occasion instilled a noticeable sense of pride in the students, who were joined by staff, families, and community leaders.

“They loved the formality of seeing their work framed and displayed in the gallery, with their artist statement next to it,” she said.

“This current cohort has really lent itself to the studio feel and working together, which is what makes it so special.”

Principal Iain Belot said the evening served as a reminder of the power that art has to unite people, which was evident in not only the artwork but the relationships fostered between artist and subject.

“Opportunities like this draw people into the heart of the school and the heart of the community,” he said.

“They empower people to build connections through conversation and learn about others through the eyes of our talented students, who have captured the personhood of the teachers they have painted.”

Eddie Russell

Briefs

Plant theft

More than $2200 worth of new plants were stolen within hours of them being laid in Maddingley. Approximately 247 plants were planted in a roundabout on Monday, June 17, at the Werribee Vale Road and Halletts Way intersection. In a post on its Facebook page, Moorabool council said it was ‘disappointed’ to find the plants missing from the roundabout. Among the shrubbery was a mixture of Casauarina glauca cousin and Acacia cognata limelight, both of which are native to Australia.

Electrical fire warning

This winter, fire services are warning Victorians to be aware of the risk of fires from everyday electrical household items. Residents are being advised to keep the safety and maintenance of their electrical equipment front of mind when it comes to appliances such as clothes dryers, electric blankets and recharging portable devices. In 2022-23, Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) and CFA responded to more than 5,137 structure fires across the state, which includes house fires.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Principal Iain Belot and student Lily at the Heathdale Christian College 10th anniversary exhibition (Supplied)

Mentors helping women succeed

By Narelle Coulter

When Sarah Constable and Nikki* meet for coffee or a walk in St Albans, they look like old friends catching up for a chat.

They talk about movies, television shows, music, their pets and families.

However, the lives of Sarah and Nikki only intersected earlier this year thanks to early intervention program Women And Mentoring (WAM).

WAM supports women and non-binary people who are in contact with the justice system, offering them support and friendship in their local community. Volunteers use their life experiences to empower women to make change in their lives.

‘‘ It is nice to hold that space for someone, to allow them to trust another person in their life ’’

-

Sarah Constable

Sarah, who has worked as a mental health nurse and is now a paramedic, became involved with WAM after seeing a Facebook advertisement calling for volunteers.

“I work full time in the ambulance service now and missed working with marginalised populations,” Sarah said.

“Most of WAM’s clients are referred from thejusticesystemandmayhaveconcernswith housing and drug and alcohol addiction. I’ve worked a lot in that space and feel comfortable in that aspect. I wanted to reconnect with someone in that position and see them grow and meet their goals.”

Sarah underwent training provided by

Volunteer

mentor

Sarah Constable. (Damjan Janevski) 413251_04

WAM before being matched with Nikki and receives ongoing support from fellow mentors through peer supervision. She and Nikki meet weekly or fortnightly in the community.

“We mostly go for a walk or get a coffee and

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collating documents or go to the library with her to print documents.”

Sarah said she is enjoying walking beside Nikki on her journey towards a more positive life.

“Often women don’t have people they can trust. As an outside person with no vested interestitisnicetoholdthatspaceforsomeone to allow them to trust another person in their life and allow them to navigate a healthy relationship and model those behaviours.

“Doing this has helped me understand what other people face and their barriers and by default, that makes you appreciate your own life.”

WAM chief executive Tricia Ciampa said more volunteer mentors are needed in the west.

“Over the past few years we have seen demand for our mentoring service increase

ENQUIRIES

Geelong Day Surgery 21 - 29 Princes Highway Norlane VIC 3214 P 03 5222 1560 E reception@geelongdaysurgery.com.au W www.geelongdaysurgery.com.au

Going dry for a cure

As winter and rain roll in, Dry July is just around the corner. Gerald Lynch speaks to Werribee’s Zach Thornton about the cause that asks people to give up or give.

More than 160,000 Australians have taken on the challenge of abstaining from alcohol for the month of July, but few would have stronger motivating factors than Werribee’s Zach Thornton.

After losing his father to cancer at a young age, he decided to jump on board and participate in Dry July during lockdown in 2020.

Feeling that alcohol was too easy to give up, Zach also threw in soft drinks and his beloved iced-coffees, as well as a 31-kilometre run at the end of the month, one kilometre for each day.

Less than a year after taking part in Dry July, in April 2021, Zach’s twin sister Zoe was diagnosed with breast cancer.

This spurred Zach to continue the challenge each year, and instead, run a kilometre for every year he and his sister had been around.

In 2021 it was 26, and this year, with Zoe making a full recovery, Zach will run 29 kilometres at the end of July, to celebrate Zoe, and help continue to raise funds.

For Zach, it took some time to get on board with the cause, but he looks back on it as one of the best decisions he’s made.

“I’ve always felt a sense of desire to advocate for causes, but before 2020 I hadn’t quite jumped on that one yet,” he said.

“I probably hadn’t really entirely reconciled my experience with losing my dad to cancer yet, but then I thought what better way to recognise and celebrate him, and do good to raise funds for those who have gone through it and are going through it.

“I know it’s seen as ‘difficult’ but it’s not, in the grand scheme of things. I do it for those aroundmeandobviouslyZoebecameafactor.

“If I can run for a couple of hours at the end of the month, and get off alcohol and sugary stuff, and use that to raise a few thousand, that’s all the fulfilment I could need.”

He said being around a football club and

‘‘ What I have to give up does not compare to what Zoe went through, what Dad went through, and what all the other Zoes and Dads are going through ’’ - Zach Thornton

beingasocialperson,hehasrunintoinstances where abstaining from drinking alcohol has made things slightly less enjoyable, but the sacrifice pales in comparison to that of those battling with cancer.

“Tarneit’s [his football club] mid-season ball has been in July the last two years, and dealing with people when they’re drinking and you’re not can be difficult,” he said.

“Ifyou’reinasettingwherealcoholispartof the fun, it can be a bit hard … but it genuinely doesn’t phase me … because what I have to give up does not compare to what Zoe went through, what dad went through, and what all the other Zoes and Dads are going through.”

In his first four years of participating, Zach has raised $12,218 toward various causes, and this year, he has his sights set on a $3000 goal, going toward the Royal Melbourne Hospital.

To those on the fence about getting involved ahead of this July, he just had one message; do it.

“I think it’d be the easiest decision you could ever make,” he said.

“If you have someone you want to celebrate or raise awareness for, just commit to it … the challenge is worthwhile.”

The cause behind Dry July dates back to the first Dry July in 2008. Three mates, Brett, Kenny, and Phil, wanted to take a break from alcohol, so they decided to abstain for the month of July, coining it their ‘Dry July’. They

also wanted to raise money for a cause very close to their hearts, so they asked family and friends to sponsor them.

Hoping to raise $3000 to buy a TV for their local cancer centre’s waiting room, the campaignwasahugesuccessraising$250,000.

Since 2008, Dry July Foundation has continued to support cancer service organisations and has raised over $90 million for more than 80 organisations across Australia.

Dry July interim chief executive Gillian Odbert sees the cause as a way to raise awareness and give back to a cause that affects so many people.

“Like so many Australians, cancer has impacted many of my family and friends, including my mother, father and some of my uncles, so it has always been a cause close to my heart,” she said.

“For me, Dry July is unique because you can raise funds to support cancer patients with different variants through so many national, regional and local support organisations across Australia.

“It’s a tangible way to pay forward the support those services have given my family over the years.”

She said in her time working with the cause, there has been many great instances of people going above and beyond, but one story of two sons honouring their late father stands out above the rest.

“Last year we had two brothers, Tadgh and Declan Waddington, who raised over $17,000 for their chosen beneficiary, Ballarat Regional Integrated Cancer Centre (BRICC),” she said.

“In loving memory of their father, Mark, who passed away in August 2022 from a rare form of cancer, the Waddington brothers set themselves the task of adding to their Dry July bykickingagoal(AFL)foreverydollarraised.

“The donations rolled in, and the boys stuck to their word. In late July, Declan and Tadgh

kicked thousands of goals and successfully wrapped up their Dry July with a bang!

“It is amazing what participants will do to raise funds, knowing the impact the services Dry July Foundation funds have on the lives of people affected by cancer.” Dry July funds support people affected by cancer when they need it most. Funds raised provide invaluable services –whetherit’saridetoalife-savingappointment, guidance from a specialist nurse, connection to an information service, access to therapy programs or a bed close to treatment.

Up until the end of June, Werribee business Western Landcare Services, has committed to matching any funds donated to Zach’s fundraiser up to $400.

Donate: https://www.dryjuly.com/users/ zach-thornton

Twins Zach and Zoe Thornton. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413607_04

Dry July interim chief executive Gillian Odbert. (Supplied)

Community unites for Refugee Week

Refugee Week celebrations were held last week, with the City of Melton holding a number of events to mark the occasion.

On Thursday, June 20, community members headed to Fraser Rise Community Centre to attend a Unity in exodus: Celebrating family in finding freedom symposium.

Those who met had the opportunity to learn about and address the challenges faced by refugee communities in the area.

The event was held in partnership with the Melton Interfaith Network, a group that aims to foster an inclusive community and embrace faith diversity.

Mayor Kathy Majdlik said the council-led events were a way for people of all walks of life to come together and understand each other.

“Gathering together and sharing stories is a great way for us all to celebrate the wonderful contributions refugees make to our community,” she said. “We value the unique skills, new perspectives, and cultural diversity that refugees and asylum seekers bring to our city.

Eddie Russell Left to right: Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik; Panel member Shankar Kasynathan; Speaker Emma Dawson; Joe Nunweek from WestJustice. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 413432

Speakers at the Refugee week event ‘Unity in Exodus: Celebrating Family in Finding Freedom Symposium’, with Melton councillors.

Infrastructure key to housing

By Eddie Russell

Melton and Moorabool councils have warned more infrastructure will be needed to accommodate the state government’s proposed 2051 housing targets.

Under the draft target released last week, Melton is set to receive 132,000 homes –the third most in the state after Greater Geelong (139,800) and the City of Melbourne (134,000).

It means the number of homes in Melton, which is currently 69,300, will almost triple in

less than three decades.

Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said that the houses could not be built without regard for other essential services.

“There needs to be considered planning around a diversity of housing stock and accessible active open spaces,” she said.

“We also need assurances of timely delivery of critical state infrastructure including water, power, communications, roads, public transport, education and allied health services to support this growth.”

However, she said that Melton council would

make the necessary efforts to help where it could with the project.

“As one of Australia’s fastest growing metropolitan areas, Melton City Council continues to be committed to working with the Victorian Government on delivering all that our city needs.”

Moorabool is also set to see a significant increase.

It already has 16,300 current homes, and is expected to receive a further 19,100.

Merrimu, Parwan, Hopetoun Park, and Ballan are all areas that have been earmarked

RSL documentary honours veterans

A documentary paying tribute to the work of the Caroline Springs RSL premiered last week, in a celebration of dedication and passion.

Equipped with an idea that they could make a difference for other veterans in the area, two passionate Vietnam veterans, Peter Burquest and Murray Lewis, established the Caroline Springs RSL sub-branch in 2014.

The documentary was made with help from the veterans council and state government, and was named ‘Those Who Serve’.

It details the impact that the Caroline Springs RSL and its sub-branch has had on its members and the broader community, and the difficult experiences of war veterans from their serving days.

Among members featured in the documentary is WWII veteran Allan Godfrey, whodiedonMarch20,justafewdaysshyofhis

101st birthday.

Mr Godfrey enlisted aged 18, starting his journey in Darwin, where he was stationed for over a year.

From Darwin, he continued on to New Guinea, the Philippines, Borneo, and Malaya, where he saved Australian prisoners of war.

Living in St Albans with his great-grandchildren in recent years, Mr Godfrey was a very active member in the community and played an important part in the Caroline Springs RSL.

He is also among the faces of the 600 metre Walk of Honour memorial featured in the documentary, which is located in the Woodlea estate.

The tribute was made in 2018, and includes 150 individual plaques, honouring Australians whohadfoughtinwarsrangingfromBoerWar

to Afghanistan.

WoodleaprojectdirectorMatthewDeansaid the purpose of the initiative was to honour the military association, and included inspiration fromthemembersatCarolineSpringsRSLand school children’s drawings.

“It was a privilege to be able to create a memorial of this size,” he said.

“Wewantedtobuildsomethingthathonours the ones who lost their lives in the war, the families who were left at home, and the ones who brought the war back in their mind.

“Those Who Serve is a testament to the incredible work of the Caroline Springs RSL. It not only highlights their dedication to serving veteransbutalsoshowcasestheirpivotalrolein fostering community resilience.”

Gerald Lynch

for growth moving forward.

Moorabool council chief executive Derek Madden said the targets were manageable provided infrastructure projects were met.

“The Victorian Government targets, although higher than what council have forecast, are within an acceptable range based on our current planning,” he said.

“Overall, the growth targets are not a huge concern provided investment is made in much needed community infrastructure projects such as the local indoor pool and major road works.”

Legislation to lift standards

Stategovernmenthaspassedlegislation which it hopes will improve council governance and integrity standards, so Victorians, including those in Melton and Moorabool, can have confidence in the local governments that serve them.

ThereformoftheLocalGovernment Act 2020, passed through Parliament last week, will elevate governance and integrity standards in Victoria’s 79 councils – and will be in place for the new council term following the local government elections this October.

Since the last council elections in 2020, 56 councillors have resigned and 12 councils have had municipal monitors appointed, with one council suspended and one dismissed as a result of governance issues.

Following the local government elections in October this year, councils will have a uniform councillor code of conduct to create consistent standards of behaviour and increase accountability. A program of mandatory training will also be introduced for councillors and mayors, including annual professional development.

The reforms introduce stronger sanctions for councillor misconduct and improved processes to resolve conduct matters earlier. The Minister for Local Government will also have strengthened powers to deal with councillors that are found to have created a serious risk to health and safety or are preventing their council from performing its functions.

Caroline Springs RSL members (L-R) Andrew Marshall, Amy Mahoney, Washington Escano, Peter Burquest, and Wendy Mason at the premiere. (Supplied)

PUZZLES

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 Expend (3)

3 Choice (10)

10 Applaud (7)

11 Southern Pacific region (7)

12 Facilities of a building (9)

13 Ancient South American civilisation (4)

15 Florida fort (10)

17 Large jug (4)

19 Accepted standard (4)

20 Child of one’s child (10)

23 Keyboard error (4)

25 Insipid (9)

27 Members of a powerful military caste in feudal Japan (7)

28 Hub for military planes (7)

29 They protect the eyes from the glare (10)

30 Charter (3)

DOWN

1 Ineffectual (10)

2 The British Treasury (9)

4 Rest (9)

5 Moves steadily (5)

6 Watery (6)

7 Babysitter (5)

8 Web auction site (4)

9 Acting with ease (6)

14 Rainbow-coloured (10)

16 Painting of the countryside (9)

18 British civil service (coll) (9)

21 Said when raising a glass (6)

22 Light reddish brown (6)

24 Arab state (5)

25 Counterparts (5)

26 Egyptian goddess (4)

Using the nine letters in

four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

1 Colloquially, what is a cakewalk?

2 Where is the Bredikhin crater located?

3 For which three films has Daniel Day-Lewis won an Academy Award for Best Actor?

4 In which city was Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja born?

5 To which continent is the kangaroo rat native?

6 In which year was X (formerly Twitter) created and launched?

7 Maleficent is the main antagonist in which animated Disney film?

8 Which motor company makes the vehicle X-Trail?

9 Matt Damon (pictured) stars as a former criminal named Max in which 2013 sci-fi action film?

10 What is a female moose called?

No. 191

No. 191

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club Meets on the first Thursday of every month from 10am – noon at the Avenue Bowling Club on 254 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh ■ Krystyna, bacchusmarshladiesprobus@ gmail.com

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

Community band

The Greater Western Community Band meets Thursdays, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Rehearsal venue is the Bridge Road Community Centre, Strathtulloh (Melton South). The band is available for events. Brass, woodwind and percussion players are always welcome.

■ Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582

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

Fishing club

Didyabringyarodalong Angling Club of Melton and Bacchus Marsh is a fishing club that welcomes and encourages people of all ages, genders and fishing abilities to partake in enjoying the outdoors in a relaxing and friendly environment. The club holds monthly fishing competitions at various locations, fresh and saltwater. New members are most welcome.

■ Andrew, 0407 303 438, or Wayne, 0414 785 366

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, from 7.30pm. Entry is free.

■ mgilsant9@gmail.com

Deer Park National Seniors

Deer Park Branch of National Seniors

Australia arranges activities each month, sometimes to the theatre, morning melodies, train or bus trip, and lunches. 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

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

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

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

The Gap on Graham

The Gap provides a place for Melton youth to hang out, socialise, play games and learn new skills. The centre holds a night for girls

aged 10 to 18 years, at 5 Graham Street, Melton, on Wednesday evenings. There is also a drop-in night for anyone aged 12 to 25 years old.

■ Val, 0414 769 605

Melton Men’s Group

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

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

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

Parkinson’s support group

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

■ Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Bridge Club

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

■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

week’s photographer’s

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

Zonta Club meets

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

■ Janet, 0421 080 923 or info@zontaclubofmelton.org.au

U3A Melton

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

■ 0419 563 016

Melton Combined Probus Club

The Melton Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am. ■ 9746 0271

This

choice is of Guy Walter and Michelle Richards from the Lancefield Witches Fair. (Damjan Janevski) 413693_01

Xgenz set to light up Sunshine

By Gerald Lynch

Get set for a night of classic rock hits, as the Xgenz band returns to Sunshine this Friday night.

At the Double Deuce bar in Sunshine North, $10 tickets will be available at the door to experience a show that has been rocking Melbourne’s west for many years.

With drink specials and pool tables, the night is sure to be filled with fun.

Xgenz guitarist and founder Terry Koutsouras said the band loves to play in

Sunshine.

“We are regulars there, we’ve built a great relationship with the venue and the community,” he said.

“We play there every couple of months, we love playing there. We get a crowd of all ages, and we engage with our crowd.

“All our songs are ones you can dance to and sing along to, it’s all about having a good time.”

Xgenz plays exclusively covers of classic rock music, but Terry said no two shows have the same track list

“We are very particular with the songs we

play, and we play to our audience,” he said.

“It’s pointless just playing songs I like, it’s all about what the crowd wants.

“We’re a very energetic group, and we thrive off the crowd. Our music hits you where it counts.”

The band has been around for more than five years, and has seen many personnel changes, but Terry said the current group is among the best ever.

Doors open at 6pm at the Double Deuce bar at 264 McIntyre Road, Sunshine North, on Friday, June 28.

Eynesbury rugs up for a cool festival

The Eynesbury Winter Festival is returning for this year’s school holidays.

HeldattheEynesburyEstateHomestead,the all-ages festival will span from Thursday, June 27, to Sunday, July 14, and boast a variety of activities and special guests.

This includes DJ Lenny Pearce, Olympic gold medalist Steve Hooker, and players from Western United Football Club.

Pearce will play a special opening weekend set at Winter Solstice, which takes place on Saturday, June 29.

Pearce said on a personal level, the occasion had a particular sentiment attached to it.

“I create a lot of my music right here at home

in Eynesbury, and there’s something so unique and special about launching my new album where it all began,” he said.

His debut album, The Wiggles Sound System: Rave of Innocence, is a reimagining of classic Wiggles hits in the form of electronic dance music.

Pearce is not the only one bringing the heat for the Winter Solstice Night – there will also be a fireworks display and giant bonfire.

Kids’ Fun Day, on Saturday, July 6, will be hosted by Hooker and Western United players will engage in a penalty shootout with attendees.

Festival-goers can also expect to enjoy an ice

rink, carnival zone, night market, ice hockey exhibition match, and food trucks.

Resimax Group founder and managing director Ozzie Kheir said the occasion would be a highlight for families and showcase life in the area.

“The Eynesbury Winter Festival is an opportunity for us to share Eynesbury’s unique nature with people across Melbourne and celebrate the growing community we have helped to build here,” he said.

Details: https://eynesbury.com.au/ winter-festival/

Chilly street party to warm up Wyndham

The arrival of winter means a drop in temperatures, but also a spike in fun and entertainment in central Werribee, with Wyndham’s annual Winter Street Party returning on Friday, June 28.

Running from 4pm to 9pm, the 2024 Winter Street Party will take over Watton Street with fire shows, street performers, interactive art installations, marshmallow toasting, live entertainment, kids’ activities and much more.

Local creatives will be given a platform to show off their skills, with a winter market featuring 30 local Wyndham artists and

makers and two live music stages featuring Wyndham musicians and performers

A highlight of this year’s event will be Leor, a 4 metre tall marionette that is set to steal the show.Witnessingthismagnificentgiantpuppet come to life is likely to build an appetite, but fortunately hungry patrons won’t have to look hard for a place to eat.

Whether you’re up for a cosy dinner, or prefer to grab a bite on the go, businesses will be open late with special offers and delicious winter dishes to indulge.

To accommodate the wintery fun, there

Winter fun in Williamstown

Winter is coming to Williamstown.

From Friday, June 28 to Sunday, July 14, Commonwealth Reserve and Nelson Place will be the ideal location for a wintry family trip.

With an ice-skating rink and an unmissable view of Melbourne as your background, Commonwealth Reserve will be a sight to behold.

Also at the reserve there will be the HMAS Castlemaine, captivating roving light installations and a DJ for music to set the scene as you skate the night away.

Light displays will transform three landmark buildings across Nelson Place every day from 5pm until 10pm. For a bit more extra weekend fun there will be interactive light painting from 7.30pm to 9.30pm each Friday and Saturday for the duration of Winter in Williamstown.

HobsonsBaymayorMattTylersaidthe eventshowcasehowmuchWilliamstown has to offer.

“Williamstown is such a beautiful place at any time of year, but I can’t wait toseeittransformedthiswinter,”hesaid.

“There’s so much to do in Williamstown, from great places to eat and drink and plenty of historic places to visit and explore, and this event is going to shine a new light on what is already one of our city’s most popular places.“So get rugged up and come and explore the beauty of winter in Williamstown.”

Details: experiencehobsonsbay.com

Max Westwood

will be some rolling road closures and traffic management in the run up to the event.

Station Place and sections of Watton Street will be closed to traffic from 6am on Friday, June 28, until 2am on Saturday, June 29.

Access between Bridge Street and Comben Drive will remain open with traffic management in place, while the designated taxi zone in Station Place will be relocated to Comben Drive.

As a result of these road closures, patrons are encouraged to get public transport to the event.

Eddie Russell

Melbourne and the HMAS Castlemaine will provide the perfect backdrop to Winter in Williamstown. (Supplied)

A young girl captivated by the entertainment at last year’s Wyndham Winter Street Party. (Supplied)

Xgenz will play in Sunshine on Friday, June 28. (Supplied)

DJ Lenny Pearce with Chelsea, 4, Mila, 1, Matteo, 1, and Mason, 10, at Eynesbury Homestead. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413826_01

SPORTS QUIZ

1. What animal is the mascot of the A-League team Macarthur FC?

2. Melissa Wu recently became the first Australian diver to qualify for how many Olympic Games?

3. The USA beat Canada and what other nation in the Group Stage of the 2024 Twenty20 World Cup?

4. The NBL team Melbourne United was previously known by what name?

5. The harness racing track Menangle Park is located in which state?

6. Alex de Minaur recently achieved his highest-ever ATP ranking of what number?

7. Sydney Swans forward Joel Amartey recently kicked how many goals in an AFL match against Adelaide?

Which Super Netball team recently parted ways with head coach Bec Bulley less than halfway into a four-year contract?

The WNBL will have a new team next season based in which regional Victorian city?

. Which Richmond AFL star recently reached the milestone of 300 games?

In the NHL, what are Ottawa also known as?

Who won the men's WWE Royal Rumble in January?

In darts, what is the regulation distance between the player and the front of the board?

14. 8.95m (29ft 4.5in) is the distance held by Olympic World Record holder Mike Powell in which event?

15. In the 2022 AFL Grand Final, how many points did winners Geelong score?

16. Which country won the gold medal in the women's all-around gymnastics at the 1988 Summer Olympics?

17. The sport of rowing as we know it today came from a rivalry between Oxford and which other university?

18. How many points under par is a birdie in golf?

19. Shuttlecocks are mainly made from duck or goose feathers and what other material at the tip?

20. In which US city did pickleball originate?

21. What is the name of the new team joining the A-League Men’s competition later this year?

22. Swimmer Ariarne Titmus broke the world record for which event at the Olympic selection trials?

23. Which country did Australia dismiss for 72 in their third T20 World Cup fixture?

24. And which spinner took four wickets for the Aussies to claim Man of the Match honours?

25. Which legendary film actor finished second at the 1979 Le Mans 24 Hour motor race?

26. The Venus Rosewater Dish is presented to the winner of which women’s tennis tournament?

27. Matildas soccer star Sam Kerr plays for which Women’s Super League club in England?

28. Which Melbourne Demons AFL star suffered a lacerated spleen, a punctured lung and four broken ribs against Collingwood in the King’s Birthday clash?

29. Which golfer famously won the 2000 US Open by 15 strokes?

30. Stade de France, the country’s largest stadium, was originally built for which major 1998 event?

Sam Kerr

Lexus LBX is small but stylish

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

LBX is the Lexus equivalent of the Toyota Yaris Cross, but is it more than that?

With a truncated, low-riding version of the Lexus ‘spindle’ grille, the letters apparently stand for ‘Lexus Breakthrough X(cross)-over’. It’s a Lexus, yes and a crossover, but we’re not sure what makes it a breakthrough.

Sitting below the UX, it is the smallest Lexus to date and only the second model to carry a three-letter name, instead of the usual two letters, after the halo LFA supercar from 2011.

L was reportedly added to the combination to avoid a clash with Citroen which owns the rights to BX, a model the French marque produced from 1982 to 1994 – when it was replaced by the Xantia.

Styling

There are three grades from which to choose, withpricesstartingfrom$47,550pluson-roads for the LBX Luxury 2WD, $52,990 for LBX Sports Luxury 2WD or $56,990 for LBX Sports Luxury AWD.

Our test vehicle was the entry level Luxury grade finished in pearlescent white. It can be identified by 18-inch alloy wheels with a dark grey and bright machined finish, LED headlights with adaptive high beam, rear spoiler and privacy glass and a two-tone finish.

Inside, the LBX Luxury has black NuLuxe upholstery for the seats, steering wheel, door and instrument panel trim, with contrasting red stitching, front and rear carpet floor mats, heated front seats, two-zone climate air with remote function, wireless phone charging, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, ambient interior lighting, smart entry and start and a powered tailgate.

The front seats are heated with eight-way power adjustment for the driver with two-way lumbar support and memory function.

Sports Luxury adds unique 18-inch wheels and a unique finish on the rear pillar which combines thin strips of gloss and non-gloss finish to create a stylish geometric expression.

Inside, it gains a combination of artificial NuLuxe and Ultrasuede upholstery, suede cloth trim for the door, instrument panel, and console box, and a premium leather shift knob and heated steering wheel.

The higher grade also gains Head-Up Display (HUD) with touch-sensitive steering wheel controls, multi-colour ambient interior lightinganda13-speakerMarkLevinsonaudio and active noise control.

Lexus Teammate advanced park is also included to make parking even easier.

LBX comes standard with a five-year/ unlimited kilometre warranty, plus a three-year complimentary subscription to Lexus Encore which provides exclusive offers withluxuryhotelpartners,invitestoeventsand experiences and fuel discounts at participating Ampol servos.

Infotainment

Multimedia is supported by a 9.8-inch touchscreen display with satellite navigation, paired with a six-speaker Panasonic audio system compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto.

Up to three users can save their personal settings for the multimedia, vehicle settings and active safety parameters.

There’s wireless charging, three front and two rear USB-C ports, as well as front and rear 12V accessory sockets.

But bear in mind the charge sockets are USB-C, so that old USB-A to -C cable is not going to work.

Engines/transmissions

Thehybridsysteminfront-driveLBXcombines a1.5-litrethree-cylinder,AtkinsonCyclepetrol engine that produces 69kW/185Nm, with a single electric motor that generates a combined output of 100kW.

In comparison, the donor Yaris Cross has a smaller electric motor and delivers

67kW/120Nm, with a peak output of 85kW.

A CVT-style continuously variable auto offers two modes: Eco and Normal.

Safety

As yet the LBX has not been rated for safety by ANCAP.

Lexus Safety System+ provides a comprehensive suite of safety features, including eight airbags, which is designed to help provide protection for drivers, passengers, and other road users.

It’s equipped with the Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pre-collision Braking (PB), which may be able to detect preceding vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists in the daytime, as well as oncoming vehicles and motorcycles in the daytime.

A camera mounted on the steering column monitors driver attention.

If, like me, you often drive one-handed, with that hand in the 12 o’clock position, you’ll get in trouble from the system because the camera cannot see your face.

We kid you not. The system may even shut down the car if it becomes really concerned.

Driving

We didn’t get off to a good start with the LBX.

Although the key was in the cabin, it somehow managed to lock itself. Good thing there’s a secret button that can be used to release the doors.

After that hiccup LBX refused to start, as in the electrical system played totally dead - no lights, no nothing.

After jumpering the car, it was finally coaxed into life, but then did the exact same thing a couple of days later. Grrr . . .

It may have been a failing 12-volt battery, but deciding to take no chances we treated the LBX as a plug-in hybrid, connecting it to a trickle charger each time we returned home.

While the 12-volt battery is located under the back seat like my old Beetle, it is possible to charge the car from the fuse box under the bonnet.

Thankfully, there were no further recurrences.

Although the car reports the current state of the hybrid system, the instrumentation does not extend to a monitor for the secondary battery as it has done in many other cars over the years.

The project lead engineer Kunihiko Endo said engineering the car to provide the level of refinement expected from a Lexus was a challenge.

Beingasmallervehiclespacewaslimitedand they had to adopt a different approach to the traditional use of sound insulation.

Does it work? Yes and no.

Back in the day, the V8-powered Lexus LS 400 was the quietest car we had ever driven.

Itwassoquietthatitwasoftendifficulttotell whether the engine was running and we kept double-starting it.

Fast forward and the LBX is not that car.

You cannot escape the fact that this is a small vehicle with a short wheelbase, and the ride tends to be choppy on our second rate roads.

Engine noise is also very apparent under hard acceleration.

The front suspension features a new MacPhersonstrutsetupwithupdatedgeometry to ensure straight-line stability and minimal understeer.

At the rear, front-drive variants use a rigid torsion beam while the AWD variant employs a trailing arm, double wishbone set-up to accommodate the rear motor.

The chassis has been strengthened with multiple braces, short pitch welding techniques and more than 19 metres of structural adhesive to maximise torsional rigidity.

Thebonnetmeanwhileismadeofaluminium to save weight.

The dash from 0-100km/h takes 9.2 seconds and it has a top speed of 170km/h.

Combined fuel consumption from the 36-litre tank is a claimed 3.8L/100km, using standard 91 RON unleaded, with CO2 emissions of 85g/km.

LBX features a bi-polar nickel-metal hydride battery, which Lexus reckons offers much greaterpowerdensityandthroughputpotential than traditional lithium-ion cells.

The nickel-metal hydride battery is

positioned underneath the rear seat.

Aside from electrical problems, LBX feels like a definite step up from Yaris Cross. The drive experience is generally satisfying, but performance is adequate rather than exhilarating.

Theleather-accentedsteeringwheelisamong the best we’ve used, smooth, chunky and easy on the fingers.

Fuel consumption is good, but higher than expected, at 4.9L/100km after 420km, compared to the manufacturer’s claim of 3.8L/100km.

Two Isofix child seat anchors are offered in the rear, but rear legroom is pretty much non-existent.

The boot however has a larger capacity than expected.

A puncture repair kit is provided in lieu of a spare tyre and wheel.

Of note the infotainment system needs a bit of work.

There’s no home button and no facility to connect to Android Auto if your phone does not automatically re-establish a connection upon re-entering the vehicle.

Wefoundtheoverhead360degreecameraso annoying that we opted to turn it off.

As soon as vehicle speed drops to a crawl, it switchesonobscuringthemaporwhateverelse is on screen. Grrr . . .

The satnav is second rate, offering very little information in regard to street signs and upcoming turns.

We switched to Waze instead. Grrr . . .

Summing up

Sorry, but that’s a no from us. LBX is too small and has too many annoying traits.

In fact, apart from growing its market share, we’re left wondering whether models like the UX and LBX risk eroding the reputation that Lexushasbattledtobuildoverthepast30years or so. Then again younger drivers recognise and find the styling appealing, so maybe we are just not part of the demographic that Lexus has in its sights.

Chris Riley says LBX is too small and has too many annoying traits. (Pictures: Supplied)

The Rams finally break through

By Tara Murray

It’s been more than 2200 days in the making but the Western Rams are back on the winners’ list.

Having not won since May 5, 2018, when they were still in the Riddell District Football League and still known as Rockbank, the Rams had the longest losing streak for a senior men’s side in Victoria.

That all changed on Saturday, with the Rams not only getting the win but putting on a performance they could only dream of in the Western Football League division 2.

Facing North Sunshine, which hasn’t had many wins in recent years, it was a match up of the battlers that had everyone talking.

It was the Rams that came away with a 29.24 (198)-4.3 (27) win.

Coach Ash Pritchard said there were plenty of celebrations along with some mixed feelings.

He said it was a big night for some of the players after the game.

“It was an unbelievable day,” he said. “It’s hard to explain.

“There was a lot of emotion and I couldn’t be happier. The reserves also got the win, it’s been a long time since they’ve both got wins on the same day.”

The Rams found themselves in the unusual position as favourites entering the game. Outside of their last up performance against Braybrook, Pritchard said they had put together some really good football.

“We’ve seen some vast improvement and we saw it all put together yesterday [Saturday],” he said.

“We tried to keep them pretty calm during the week. North are a lot like us and we

understand the situation they are in.

“We didn’t want to get ahead of ourselves and we didn’t want to play the game before it arrived.”

The Rams led 47-0 at half time and the margin was 98 points at the main break, It continued to grow and it allowed the side to enjoy the moment and celebrate something that was long awaited.

“I didn’t pick that,” Pritchard said of the margin. “It was a pleasing result and it has been what we’ve ben doing over the last month and being able to put it all together.

“It was amazing for the people who have supported in the club in the dark times. Those who had been there for a long time, I made suretheywereonthegroundasthesirenwent.

“The likes of Luke Roberts, Matthew Voight have been there a long time and seen some dark times.”

Pritchard said he could have named any of the 22 in the best.

Jarryd Underwood, who he said was their barometer this season, kicked 10 goals.

Skipper Ryan Tyson had a really strong game as did Tyler Lewis, who kicked three goals.

Pritchard said the group is content on just one win.

The Rams move up to 12th on the ladder.

“The boys need to know what they are couple of,” he said “They are capable and do some really good things.

“This is now the standard now for the next six to seven weeks.”

The Rams this week face Sunshine Heights, which also only has one win for the season.

“It’s another challenge and another opportunity to represent the club. We’ll go in with the mindset we can win it.”

Michael Walsh. (Ljubica Vrankovic). 413385_01

Jake Mallia. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413385_04

Western Rams winning team. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_413385_31

Josh Casey. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 413385_26

More celebrations for the Western Rams. (Ljubica

Western Rams celebrate. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_413385_33

Ballarat Football League clubs mourn Sullivan

Emotions were high on Saturday in the Ballarat Football League.

Melton footballer Billy Sullivan died in the lead up to the round, leaving the local sporting community in shock.

Sullivan, who had played every senior match this season, had previously played with Melton South and Darley as well.

Melton on its Facebook page said that Sullivan had become part of the furniture of the club in his first season there.

“Billy is a much loved character and has played every senior game this season. It has been great watching him out there with his cousin and best mate Brody [Sullivan],” the club said.

The Bloods were able to get a win for Sullivan, beating the Sunbury Lions in a top of the table clash at Clarke Oval.

The clash lived up to the hype with the Bloods getting home in an arm wrestle, 8.11 (59)-8.7 (55).

Ryan Carter kicked four goals in the win.

Lachlan Watkins was named their best, while Brody Sullivan was also named in the

Bloods best.

The Bloods remain on top, percentage ahead of East Point with the Lions now in third spot.

Billy Sullivan’s other two teams, Darley and Melton South, played each other.

“Billy was a much loved Panther who played all of his junior football for Melton South before going on to the Western Jets,” Melton South said on social media.

“Billy was an integral part of our senior side, remembered for his dashing play on the wing. COVID and an ACL were costly for Billy and us as a club as we missed some of Billy’s best years.

“But it wasn’t just on the field that Billy was loved. Off the field, with his infectious smile and cheeky sense of humour, he was always fun to be around. People were better for having Billy in their lives.”

The Devils said Sullivan joined the club last year and was part of the senior team for some time although injuries cut his season short.

“Billy was always kind, caring and wanted

to make sure everyone was having a good time,” the club said.

“He was always seen with a smile on his face, with his infectious grin and giggle bringing joy to those who were lucky enough to see it.”

On Saturday, the Devils came away with a big win, winning 26.9 (165)-7.5 (47).

Billy Myers kicked nine goals in the win. Elsewhere, it was a tough day out for Bacchus Marsh which had a loss to Redan.

The Lions getting the win, 16.10 (106)-8.6 (54).

Grego steps up a notch

By Tara Murray

Western Jets star Lucca Grego is using the lessons he learned last year to take his game to the next level.

Grego was part of the Vic Metro squad last season as a bottom ager and is again part of the squad this year.

He said he has helped massively for him as he looks to put out some good performances in his draft year.

“Coming in this year, I think it helps with leadership,” he said. “There’s a few kids in the side this year that didn’t play 16s, didn’t play 18s as a bottom ager, to already be there and come up to help these kids just starting their football journey through the talent pathway at metro.

“Playing metro last year has built me up for this year. I’ve done all the building blocks last year and done all the hard work for me to go out and enjoy it last year.”

Game one of the national championships is already under Grego’s belt, where he had 17 possessions.

The teenager said it was very quick in not the best footy conditions.

“It was a lot of fun and I’m keen to play the next three.”

While football is the dream now for Grego, it wasn’t his main focus when he was growing up.

Grego actually made the under-12 Victorian rugbyleagueteamfortheSchoolSportnational championships in 2018.

He told StarWeekly back then, that one of his dreams was to become a professional rugby league player.

“We lived in Queensland for about seven or eight years,” Grego said. “I started playing up there, and definitely was the dream from an early age.

“Being around Melbourne was definitely one reason, my grandfather was a big footy player. He played under-19s for South Melbourne back in the day and was a really good footballer.

“He kind of coaxed me into playing a couple of games for Altona Vikings and then I fell in love with it.”

Grego moved his football out to Bacchus Marsh where he now lives. He was at the Cobras until this year, when he decided to join Essendon District Football League premier side, Keilor.

He is yet to play a game with the Blues due to Coates Talent League and Vic Metro commitments, but Blues coach Mick McGuane is having a big influence on his career.

“He is probably one of the best coaches

that I’ve ever had,” he said. “The way he communicates to all the players and the way he breaks down the game of footy is just unbelievable.

“He is already mentoring me and helping me along the way, what he has done for me know, helpedimmenselyandcankeeponproviding.”’

Grego said he doesn’t model his game on anyone and tries to play like himself. Some people have said he plays like Collingwood premiership player Isaac Quaynor.

Grego is hoping to continue his strong form this season to hear his name called out at the end of the year.

He is currently also juggling year 12, which means he schedules his week every Sunday to make sure he’s got everything planned.

Grego said getting drafted would mean a lot to him. “It would mean everything to me,” he said.“I’veputallthishardworkinthelastthree years and to get drafted would be icing on the cake.

“I’m just focusing on school and footy. I’ve got exams in about 14 weeks, really knuckle down in school and continue to play the good footy I’m playing at the moment.

“Just have fun with it and not take it too seriously. I think everything should fall into place.”

Hard decision for Marshall

An impressive victory by Son of Mac in the Renown Silverware Pace at Melton on Saturday night furthered the case for trainer Kyle Marshall to embark on a trip to Brisbane in the coming weeks. Sent out as favourite, Son Of Mac settled parked out the leader Oxo Ah Lister before Marshall elected to press on for the front running with 12,000 metres to travel.

Given full rein, Son Of Mac reeled off a 56.7 last 800 metres scoring with authority by five metres from the Julie Douglas trained Jaccka Connor and Clymenus.

Marshall said Son Of Mac became fired up when Carramar Solomona made a mid-race move towards the lead.

“He got quite keen behind the mobile and came out of it a lot better than I expected but he got a bit keen when that horse came around and we had no option but to press forward,” Marshall said.

“He stuck it out and we were lucky enough to get that one cheap quarter and he’s found the line nice, he’s getting fitter and it’s just good to get him back,” he said.

Marshall admitted he was relieved to be back in the winner’s stall with Son Of Mach following the pacer’s past two unplaced efforts at Melton.

“His first start when Chris drove him he went very poor but I put it down to the stable having a virus and last week we had no chance from the back when they went 1:52,” he said.

Marshall said the opportunity to winter in the sun at was on the radar

“I’ll talk to the owners but everything is planned and if we do decide to go we are ready,” he said.

Earlier in the night Chris Alford hinted the Marshall prepared emerging open class pacer Bach wouldn’t be out of place should connections opt to head northfortheQueenslandConstellations after taking out the opening event.

The son of Bettors Delight enjoyed an economical trip behind Yambukian before Alford pulled into the sprint lane and the five-year-old mustered sufficient momentum to grab Yambukian on the line to get the verdict by a head in slick mile rate of 1:51.7.

John Dunne

Lucca Grego. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 410527_24

Tara Murray

Billy Sullivan (Supplied)

Double pain for Warriors as finals hopes fade

Western Warriors slight finals hopes are all but over in the Victorian Netball League championship with two losses last week.

It was a fast-finishing Warriors that left it too late to get the points in their match against Boroondara Express on Wednesday.

Coach Kim Bailey was left to lament another sluggish start.

For a second straight week, the Warriors come late from a big deficit but were unable to chaseitback.AgainsttheExpress,theWarriors lost 66-63.

“Close yet again, we just can’t give teams that big of a start,” she said.

“So yeah, disappointing. You know, the good thing is we know we can come back, (we) just can’t get that far down. We were flat to start, it looked like we were flat.

“It took us a while to work into the game, but we tried a few different combinations and

just giving them time to come off the court like Simona (Di Philippo), for example, came off the court, had a look at what’s going on, then

goes back on and she had a great second-half.

“Same with Ruby (Shannon), was a little bit behind the play, came back on and probably had the best defensive game for the season.”

The Warriors were down by 12 goals at one stage, but outscored Boroondara 19 to 12 in the final term.

The Warriors will be without goal defence Natalie Tommasini for a few weeks.

“It’ll be a little bit difficult, but we’ll live,” Bailey said.

“With Elly (Randall) stepping up tonight, we’ve got Georgia Berry, and we might bring Eliza Gollant up.”

TheWarriorsunder-23sdefeatedBoroondara by 10 goals, 56-46 which Bailey said “would give them the world of confidence”.

“They played tonight like we thought they could play the whole season so (it was) really pleasing. We’re coming to the back end of

Ragheb keen to improve

By Peter Howe

Taye Ragheb has a lot to be excited about over the next couple of months.

The rising taekwondo star will watch on with anticipation as two of his coaches Leon SejranovicandStaceyHymeralongwithBailey Lewis will represent Australia at the Olympics.

“I am absolutely over the moon with excitement, my adrenaline is pumping,” he said.“Itrainwiththesepeopleeveryweek,they are so amazing.

“They are my sporting heroes.”

The teenager is hoping that will be him one day.

Ragheb started taekwondo when he was just six. His mum wanted him to do a sport. He tried soccer, footy and even gymnastics but it was only when he tried martial arts that he became an instant fan.

“As a six-year-old I loved the challenge of getting better and being able to show my strength,” he said.

“I was very competitive and loved being able to improve. When I started winning medals in competitions I liked it even more.”

Ragheb, like all youngsters, was initiated into taekwondo and had to learn Poomsae first. Poomsae is the non-combative arm of

taekwondo where you learn the movements that you take into the combat arm.

He was eager to put the pads on and fight someone.

Ragheb was seven when won a silver medal at his first fight at the Victorian state competition. From there he went on to win his first Victorian state title and has medalled at every competition in Australia since.

He is currently the 2023 senior under-68 kilogram bronze medallist, having won the 2022 under-73 kilogram gold medal.

Ragheb attends the Maribyrnong Sports Academy coached by Sejranovic where he spends six hours a week training.

He then heads to the Victorian Institute of Sport three times per week for his performance pathway training and then his club training at Notorious Taekwondo a further three nights per week.

“Notorious is my second home and my coaches and fellow athletes are my family,” he said. “I spend up to 15 hours a week training and honing my skills. Taekwondo has taught methevaluesofrespect,discipline,gratefulness and humility.”

Combinehisrigoroustrainingschedulewith year 12 study, there’s a high commitment and and discipline required to sustain high levels of

the season and they can finish off positively hopefully. The smiles on their faces when they get a win was worth a million bucks.”

The Warriors were back in action on Sunday in the first match of round 18.

They headed up to Bendigo to face the Bendigo Strikers.

The Strikers lead by four at quarter time and the margin was back to two at the main break. It was still anyone’s game heading into the final quarter with the Strikers leading by three goals.

There was no fast finish for the Warriors this time, with the Strikers winning 54-44.

The Warriors were without Julia Woolley in the match. Kim Borger shot 32 goals in the loss. The Warriors sit second bottom with five wins. In the under-23s, the Warriors lost to the Strikers, 48-46. Both teams face Melbourne University Lightning on Sunday in round 19.

Lions looking to roar again

Damien Costigan will attempt to guide Melton back up the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association ladder this season.

Costigan has been named coach of the Lions, taking over from Mitch Stephens. Melton finished 15th last season and Costigan is excited about the prospect.

“I’m just excited to coach the club that I’ve been a part of for over 25 years, so whilst I didn’t see the opportunity coming, I’m going to take it with both hands and look forward to getting the club back to where it belongs,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to it…can’t wait to get started.”

Costigan is hoping that most of its playing group would return this season.

The Lions though be without seamer Rhys Berry, who has returned to coach his old club Diggers Rest Bulla. Berry was a model of consistency last season with 32 wickets at 15.65 and other than in round eight, took at least one wicket in every match.

“Rhys was fantastic,” Costigan said.

performance.

“I have Sunday off where I catch up on my studyandmyrest,otherwiseitisjustgo,gogo,” he said.

“But I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Ragheb has travelled to two overseas competitions.Thefirsthetookplentyoflessons outofit,fightingsomeexperiencedfighters,the second he won his first international fight.

Ragheb said he is unsure what he wants to do at the end of year 12 in terms of a career, but one thing is clear.

“I do know it will need to fit in with my goal of representing Australia at the next Olympics in the USA in 2028 and then Brisbane in 2032,” he said. “I am looking forward to the national championships later this year. Many overseas competitors travel to the tournament, and I get another opportunity to improve my skills and hopefully medal.

Ragheb is this month’s Don Deeble sports award nominee.

The award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and StarWeekly

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

“Not just on the field but off the field, so he will take (some) replacing. But I’m more than confident that we have some really good performers in the twos last year like James Robertson so we’ve got options and hopefully we can add another one or two to that as well.”

CostigansaidMeltonwouldcontinue to play young cricketers with an eye to the future.

“We’ve got some under-15, some good under-13s really coming through, so I’m excited not only what we’ve got now, but in the next year or two,” he said.

“Hopefully those juniors can transition into the senior program and help us start the next step. I think communication is going to be key for it. I want to build long-term success, not just getting success this season.

“It’ll make building a foundation and a culture that’s going to give us the best chance for long-term success.”

Kim Borger (Grant Treeby/NV)

Taye Ragheb in action at the 2022 Australian National Championships in Queensland. (Australian Taekwondo)