Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 16th July 2024
Fire sparks questions
By Gerald Lynch, with AAP
Western suburbs residents have questioned the management and storage of toxic chemicalsinarea,followingasignificantblaze at a Derrimut factory last Wednesday which blanketed parts of the west in thick smoke.
The inferno was sparked by an explosion at ACB Group’s chemical blending factory on Swann Drive about 11.20am on July 10.
More than 180 firefighters battled the blaze, which took hours to control. Several hotspots were still smouldering on Friday, with fire crews waiting for the site to be demolished before the blaze could be snuffed out.
No one was injured and the cause of the blaze is unknown.
Fire Rescue Victoria deputy commissioner Josh Fischer said authorities would remain on the scene for days, if not weeks.
‘‘ For too long the west has been a haven for toxic corporations, with no regard for the health and lives of those living here ’’
- Catherine Robinson
“This is a complex and dangerous environment, there are a lot of hazards associated with this incident so we’re taking extreme caution and care as we manage those risks for our firefighters from the time of the incident and into the future,” he said.
It has been confirmed the blaze was at the same factory where a worker died and two were injured in a fire last year.
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) issued the site with two notices and inspected it nine times since that first explosion and found it to be compliant.
The EPA’s Steve Lansdell told ABC Radio Melbourne the environmental watchdog would work with WorkSafe and other regulators, given there are are still investigations into the 2023 incident.
Western suburbs resident and Victorian Socialists spokeswoman Catherine Robinson said she was sick of seeing these issues in the western suburbs. “For too long the west has been a haven for toxic corporations, with no regard for the health and lives of those living here. Workers in our suburbs deserve safe workplaces, residents deserve liveable communities. This is a clear systemic failure,” she said.
Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank questioned the management and storage of toxic chemicals in Melbourne’s west. “The west is traditionally a dumping ground for noxious storage and industries and I don’t believe there is enough regard for the safety of residents in this setting,” he said.
The Anti-Toxic Waste Alliance was formed after a similar factory fire in West Footscray in 2018 and several other blazes at recycling plants in the same region. It’s spokesperson Colleen Hartland said it was concerning and the repeated emergencies lessen the community’s faith in the regulators.
“If the regulators are going in, why is it that this still happened? “What is it about these kind of places that you know, even after the death of a worker, they go on to a year later to have another massive fire?”
Premier Jacinta Allan said agencies had enough powers to investigate the lead up to and fallout from the “deeply dangerous” fire.
Locals have been told to keep themselves and their pets away from Kayes Drain, Cherry Creek,LavertonCreekandAndersonsSwamp.
Mr Lansdell said the EPA’s focus was on managing community and environmental impacts from firewater runoff seeping into nearby waterways. He said real-time water
sensors had been placed along Laverton Creek and Cherry Creek, as well as the inlet and outlet of Cherry Lake.
No impacts have been detected at Cherry Lake but lower dissolved oxygen levels have been picked up in Laverton Creek.
Contamination from chemical storage sites includes a diverse range of toxic substances such as per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and heavy metals.
A fire in a Footscray-Tottenham chemical factory in 2018 resulted in levels of PFAS chemicals 16 times higher than the safe recreational water quality levels downstream from the site for two weeks after the incident.
The factory fire in Derrimut. (Pictures: AAP Image/James Ross)
STAY INFORMED
Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial
Giant mural transforms Western BACE
A giant mural has transformed a wall facing Ferris Road into a vibrant masterpiece at Western BACE in Cobblebank.
Titled Growth and Knowledge, the piece symbolises the flourishing ideas and innovation that define Western BACE and the City of Melton’s rapidly growing community.
Plumpton Community Centre underway
The Plumpton Community Centre in the rapidly growing area of Fraser Rise is taking shape.
Services provided by the centre will include kindergarten, maternal and child health, family and early childhood services, breastfeeding support, parenting support, playgroups, immunisations and a wide range of community programs and activities.
The facility is funded by State Government grants of $1.5 million through the Growing Suburbs Fund, and $9 million from the Building Blocks Fund, coupled with $6.6 million in developer contributions and Council’s own contribution of around $300,000.
The centre is expected in early 2025.
The artwork is 48 metres long and eight metres high and was completed by Melbourne muralist Hayden Dewar.
The mural showcases local native flora and fauna, with a towering tree symbolising the idea of growth fuelled by knowledge as its centrepiece.
Coburn Ward with Cr Julie Shannon
Investment in recreation, leisure and community facilities feature in Council’s 2024/2025 budget, which is framed around a $223.1 million capital works program.
I was particularly thrilled to see the allocation of $86,000 to construct two Seniors Exercise Parks – the result of a Notice of Motion I put forward in March 2023.
Other key projects include upgrading Bulmans Road, constructing Bridge Road Community Hub, stage 2 of the Troups Road South upgrade, constructing Weir Views Children’s and Community Centre and the Cobblebank Community Services Hub.
Visit melton.vic.gov.au/budget for more information.
Council also adopted the the Melton Weir Parkland Strategy recently, which will guide the development of parkland around the reservoir.
I’m passionate about this project and am excited we’re now in a position to
improve access and recreational opportunities that will transform the weir into a drawcard for our City and beyond.
I’d like to thank the community and the Weir Committee for their dedication to this project.
Finally, I put forward two Notices of Motion in June, the first requesting that officers prepare a report regarding accommodation services available in our City for people experiencing homelessness, and the second that Council write to Victorian Government and opposition Ministers advocating for increased funding and support for prevention programs to address youth crime in our City, particularly the use of edged weapons.
I look forward to reporting back to the community on their progress.
Feel free to contact me regarding Coburn Ward or Council related issues on 0499 801 302; email: Julie.shannon@melton.vic.gov.au or like my Facebook page @julieshannonformelton
With the new financial year underway, it’s timely to look back on the achievements of the past 12-months.
Capital projects featured heavily with the delivery of Thornhill Park and Mt Atkinson Children’s and Community Centres, redevelopment of the Burnside Heights Recreation Reserve, and upgrades to Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve.
We also laid 134km of paths, 59km of roads and planted over 8,500 trees. Approximately 15 per cent of our community participated in 180 online and in-person consultation activities, and our libraries welcomed 460,000 visitors. Incredibly, we undertook nine million kerbside bin collections, removed 4,350m2 of graffiti, and received 82,000 visits to the Melton Recycling Facility. We supported young people and local groups, awarding over $213,000 to 218 recipients via our Community Grants Program, Resident Achievement Fund and FairGo 4 Youth Fund.
Our Customer Service team responded to 210,490 enquiries, and our Community Care and Active Living team delivered 63,492 hours of domestic and personal care, and property maintenance to 2,270 clients. We established 64 new parent groups, ran 86 toddler groups, and conducted 19,461 Key Age and Stage Consultations.
Of course, this is only a sample of what we achieved, and I cannot wait to see what the next year holds for our wonderful City.
Finally, I’d like to wish a very happy birthday to Hillside resident, Joan Barker, who turned 100 on 8 July. Joan has been a Social Support client for around 12 years. On behalf of Council and the community happy 100th birthday, Joan.
You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at Kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.
Mayor Cr Kathy Majdlik
Deputy Mayor Cr Steve Abboushi
Cr Lara Carli
Cr Justine Farrugia
Cr Goran Kesic Cr Sophie Ramsey Cr Julie Shannon
Cr Bob Turner Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg
Westies facing long commutes
By Gerald Lynch
More people in Melbourne’s west are employed but many are still facing long commutes to get to their jobs each day.
The West of Melbourne Economic Development Alliance (WoMEDA) released its half yearly economic update on Wednesday, which showed employment in Melbourne’s west had increased by 100,000 jobs in just six years.
However, almost half the employed faced a regular commute beyond the west, with 32 per cent travelling to the Melbourne CBD.
WoMEDA chair Professor Peter Dawkins said the alliance was surprised by the results of the study.
The study analysed six different councils, Hobsons Bay, Wyndham, Maribyrnong, Brimbank, Melton and Moonee Valley.
“WoMEDA was set up about eight years ago and two issues we were concerned about were the extent of jobs for people in the region with the huge population growth and if there would be enough jobs for them,”
Professor Dawkins said.
“Not only weren’t employment levels good, but you had to leave your region. There weren’t enough jobs locally and that’s still an issue.
“There’s been a slight change in higher employment and it has one of the best employment ratios, but local jobs are not growing fast enough.”
The report also found there is a 10 per cent gap between female and male employment to populationratiosforresidentsinMelbourne’s west.
Professor Dawkins said after speaking with residents, WoMEDA believes this is due to travel because of lack of local jobs and access to affordable childcare.
Whiletherehavebeensomeimprovements,
Professor Dawkins said more needs to be done to help those in Melbourne’s west.
“The government has done a lot of things, including the employment precincts in Footscray, Sunshine and East Werribee,” he said.
“Now we need to look at how we create more jobs in employment precincts. Our
Sunshine residents urge to donate
A pop-up Lifeblood donor centre on its way to Sunshine, with donations needed as much as ever. The centre will be available between Monday, July 29, and Friday, August 2, at the Croatian Catholic Centre Sunshine, 22 Fitzgerald Road, Sunshine West. There are 85 bookings available for people to donate.
During the week of July 29 to August 2, blood donations can be made at the donation centre from 12.30 pm to 8pm on Monday, July
29; from noon to 8 pm on Tuesday, July 30; and from noon to 8pm on Wednesday, July 31. On Thursday, August 1, donations are accepted from 8am to 3.30pm, and on Friday, August 2, from 8am to 3 pm.
One blood donation is needed every 18 seconds, and can save up to three lives, Lifeblood Australia said.
Lifeblood Australia revealed one in three Australians will need blood in their lifetime, yet only one in 30 donates.
Australia needs about 33,000 donations every week to meet demand for patients. Cancer patients, as a group, are the biggest recipients of blood and blood products in Australia.
If you are between 18-75 years old and are feeling well, you may be able to donate.
To book an appointment to donate call 13 14 95 or book online at www.lifeblood.com.au or on the Donate Blood app.
Gerald Lynch
next strategy paper will have ideas on how to do that.”
Brimbank deputy mayor Jae Papalia said the report showed the importance of local jobs and adequate transport options.
“The delivery of Melbourne Airport Rail is a significant investment that the state government must make that will drive investmentandlocaljobgrowthinBrimbank and Melbourne’s west,” she said.
“Coupled with the implementation of the Sunshine Station Masterplan and the delivery of wider precinct planning, Sunshine is set to emerge as the CBD of the west, accommodating up to 43,000 additional residents and an additional 29,000 jobs by 2051.”
Organic waste tour
Brimbankcouncilisinvitingresidents to find out how the food and garden waste collected from kerbsides are turned into nutrient rich composts and mulches at Veolia’s Bulla facility. A council spokesperson said the tour would be incredibly interesting for locals to see.
“Small actions like correctly sorting your kitchen scraps and garden clippings into your food and garden organics bin can make a big impact. Your food and garden waste can be turned into compost instead of ending up in landfill. This helps conserve our valuable resources and minimise greenhouse gases,” said the spokesperson.
“Come and find out how the food and garden waste collected from your kerbside is turned into nutrient rich composts and mulches at Veolia’s Bulla facility using their state-of-the-art technology.”
Veolia is working collaboratively withcounciltodivertorganicmaterial from landfill. This facility processes 85,000 tonnes of organic material annually from 11 north-western councils.
The tour will depart from the Brimbank Community Civic Centre, 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine, at 9.30am on Wednesday, August 21, and will return on the minibus by 1pm.
Participants must wear covered flat shoes e.g. no high heels or sandals, and appropriate clothes to cover your skin such as pants and long sleeves. You will be provided with a high visibility vest and safety glasses to wear on site.
Final rehabilitation begins for Annandale Road quarry site
Multiple regulators are working towards the rehabilitation of the Somerset Quarry’s Annandale Road site.
Resources Victoria held an information and feedback session last week at the Overnewton Gatehouse Hall in Keilor, offering the communityachancetoaskquestionsandlearn abouttheworkthathasbeendonetothispoint.
Resources Victoria staff gave a short presentation on how they are regulating the quarry.
The site has now finished extraction and is starting final rehabilitation.
Locals will see earthworks and increased truck movements over the next 12 months as the quarry wraps up.
In April, the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) fined the operator of the quarry $9616 after finding industrial wastewater flowing down a hillside towards Arundel Creek and the Maribyrnong River. Waterwasbeingpumpedoutofadamonthe premises and onto the hillside, and a sample takenbyEPArevealedelevatedlevelsofcopper, iron, lead, nickel and zinc. It was then that occupier, Disposabin Pty
Ltd was ordered to introduce planned dust managementmeasuresandimplementcontrols to prevent the discharging of wastewater or stormwater containing waste from the premises.
Resources Victoria has written a series of notices to prevent a number of unauthorised waste products from entering the site, as mud removal and dust generation are being heavily focused on and managed, with hopes of rehabilitation being complete within the next 12 to 18 months.
Resources Victoria regulatory operations
executive director Chris Webb said the overhaulinregulatorswillseethequarrybetter managed going forward.
“Thekeymessageisthatweknowthishasbeen a problem for some time, and the frustration is understandable. We acknowledge that, but with a new group of regulators involved our aim is to bring this site to completion,” he said. “From our perspective the quarrying finished some time ago … so it’s really about pushing the site towards final rehabilitation.”
Gerald Lynch
Donor Services nursing assistant Dee Luecken and donor Robert Walker. (Damjan Janevski)
Airport rail stuck in its tracks
By Gerald Lynch
Premier
Jacinta
Allan has de-railed hopes of a Melbourne Airport rail by the end of the decade, despite the airport agreeing to an above ground station.
Ms Allan said the four-year delay that was initiallyflaggedduringthestategovernment’s budget announcement in May would stand, with completion of the project not to be until at least 2033.
“With delay does come cost and so this will be something that the Commonwealth government will need to work through with its project partners,” she said.
“Our appetite was there some years ago to get this project done by 2029. And that was based on the best advice from our experts and
engineers on how we could get this project delivered as quickly as possible.
“That was always our stated aim. But that was back in 2019 and since then we have seen ... ongoing, frustrating delays brought about bytheairport’srefusaltoacknowledgethatan above-ground station is a fantastic outcome.“
On July 8, Melbourne Airport chief executive Lorie Argus said the airport recognisedtheneedtogetonwiththeraillink in the interests of travellers, the city, Victoria and the airport’s third runway expansion.
“Victorians have waited long enough for an airport rail line,” she said. “We will work with the Victorian government to deliver their preferred above-ground station at the airport so the rail line can become reality.
“With an estimated 45 million travellers
a year predicted to be using our airport when the third runway opens, the rail link will support a massive increase in passenger numbers and billions of dollars in additional economic activity for Victoria.
“While Melbourne Airport has consistently advocated for an underground station, we are prepared to compromise on our position to ensure we have more transport options in place for the millions of new passengers that will visit Victoria and the airport precinct’s expanding workforce.”
Melbourne Airport will spend about $3 billion building an additional north-south runway by 2042.
The development plan for the third runway iscurrentlywaitingonthefederalgovernment for approval.
Changeover begins ‘magical year’
Ronald Moss will once again take the reins of RotaryCarolineSpringsafterbeingappointed president for a second time.
The changeover from 2023-24 president Vijay Susarla to Mr Moss took place on Saturday, July 6, at the Caroline Springs Scout Hall in Burnside Heights.
Mr Moss said he was still pinching himself after becoming president of the Rotary Club for the second time.
It almost seems unreal that I am again chosen … I accept the role willingly and know that I have an amazing group of people backing me,” he said.
“It’s an important changeover of role to ensure the continuity of what we do.”
Mr Moss vowed to build on the work of his predecessors.
“Over the last year we have achieved a lot but there is still much to be done as we move into our magical year of Rotary,” he said. The magic of Rotary is the presidential theme for Rotary clubs around the world.
Mr Moss said the work of each individual to help others was where the real magic lay.
“We serve to change lives by imagining how we can create hope in the world through the magic that is each and every serving Rotarian who volunteers their time to give back to the community.”
“We are stronger together. Together we will make a difference. Together we are the magic of Rotary.”
Author and self-discovery and leadership coach Iris Du, who is a Caroline Springs resident, spoke at the event.
Four new members were also inducted as fellows of the Rotary club.
Eddie Russell
Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic was pleased by the airport’s decision, and hoped to see works begin as soon as possible.
“The next step recommended by the mediator is to start ‘no regrets’ work on the Sunshine Precinct. Not only is this a critical part of the Melbourne Airport Rail, but it’s also going to start to deliver benefits for residents, bringing people and jobs to the west,” she said.
“This year the Victorian government set ambitious targets for housing in each Local Government Area. It’s hard to see how we can achieve those targets without critical government investment in the development of the Sunshine Precinct and the nearby Albion Quarter. We can’t afford any more delays.”
Youth urged to report crime
Crime Stoppers Victoria is working with young Victorians to combat increased rates of youth violence by asking them to ‘Share If You Care’ in a new campaign. According to Crime Statistics Agency data, there has been an increase in serious and violent offenses committed by individuals aged 14 to 17, with 6433 crimes against a person recorded in the past12monthstotheendofMarch2024. The new campaign is asking young people to share footage on their phones with Crime Stoppers, while staying unknown.
Crime Stoppers will further empower young people in the fight against crime by taking the campaign to schools. Resources will be available for students, parents and guardians to help with the tough conversations regarding youth violence.
“It doesn’t matter who you are, the question is, who are you protecting by not sharing what you know? Crime Stoppers gives you a way to speak up without fear. Young people can easily put in an online report and share images and videos they already have on their phones. Online reporting also allows them to share content they may be seeing on social media” Crime Stoppers chief executive Stella Smith said.
About 66 per cent of reports to Crime Stoppers Victoria are made online. Ms Smith said providing information such as footage can change the outcome of an investigation and assist police massively.
Details: 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au
Illicit tobacco linked to major crime boss seized in west
More than $6 million worth of illicit tobacco, hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash and firearms have been seized in police raids on properties across Victoria linked to an organised crime boss involved in the illicit tobacco trade.
The joint operation with the Australian Tax Office and detectives from Victoria Police’s Lunar and VIPER taskforces discovered 3.3 tonnes of illicit tobacco, more than $170,000 cash and 11 firearms as part of their investigation into the cultivation and distribution of illicit tobacco in Victoria.
Police executed 10 search warrants on properties across the state alleging they are linked to a significant leader of an organised crime syndicate involved in the illicit tobacco network.
Detectives searched five residential properties in Sydenham, Delahey and Melton South in Melbourne’s north-west.
They seized 200kg of illicit tobacco, five firearms and shotgun rounds that were improperly stored, documentation relating to the manufacture of illicit tobacco and keys believed to be for illicit tobacco farms at a property in Sydenham.
A 30-year-old man at the address is expected to be charged.
About 900kg of illicit tobacco and a small quantity of cash were located at another Sydenham property with police expecting to chargea39-year-oldmanwithpossessingillicit tobacco to defraud the revenue and possess proceeds of crime.
A 47-year-old man living at a Melton South
property was charged with illicit tobacco and drugs crimes, possessing the proceeds of crime and firearms offences.
Police found 1.5kg of cannabis, about $60,000 cash, 10 shotgun rounds and 1000kg of illicit tobacco at his place.
He was bailed to appear at Sunshine Magistrates Court on October 2.
Police seized about 1.2 tonnes of illicit tobacco,about$90,000cashandsiximproperly stored firearms at two properties in Delahey.
A 35-year-old man at one of the houses will be charged with possessing illicit tobacco to defraud the revenue, possessing proceeds of crime and firearms offences.
Detectives also raided five large rural properties in Landsborough and Barkly in Victoria’s west where they didn’t find any illicit
tobacco, although each property had evidence of recent tobacco harvest.
Policefound20,000illicitcigarettesandcash at a separate Barkly property and interviewed and released a 40-year-old man, pending further inquiries.
The seizures demonstrated the police focus on targeting criminal syndicate leaders, directors, facilitators and organisers, Victoria Police Acting Superintendent Mark Hatt said.
“That remains a key priority for us, and we are doing absolutely everything we can to target them, to bring this criminality to an end and to make involvement in illicit tobacco as unattractive a proposition as possible for organised crime groups,” he said.
William Ton, AAP
Vijay Susarla, mayor Kathy Majdlik, Cr Steve Abboushi, and Ronald Moss at the Presidential Changeover. (Supplied).
Produce for those in need
A grant to combat food insecurity has been given to The One Box to help families in Sunshine.
Awarded by Sunshine Marketplace’s Vicinity Community Grants program, the $9000 funding will go towards fresh produce being given out to families in need throughout Brimbank.
Brand manager Anna Savva said with a long waitlist of schools to assist, the funding will help them enormously to serve the growing needsofthecommunity.
“At The One Box, our mission is to ensure as many people as possible have access to fresh, nutritiousfood.Withanextensivewaitlistof80 schools, we prioritise supporting communities withthegreatestneed,”shesaid.
““Ourfresh,high-qualityproduceboxesaim
to alleviate some of the economic pressures these families face. Independent research by Monash Business School shows reliable fresh food relief has fundamental benefits beyond financial or nutritional benefits – building community connection and trust, inclusion and dignity, and greater family wellbeing, whichisexactlywhatthesefamiliesneedtoget backontheirfeet.”
Sunshine Marketplace centre manager Chris Holmes said the centre was “looking forward to seeing how this grant will help support them and are excited to be able to continue to build stronger connections with important community groups”.
Gerald Lynch
Briefs
Fatal crash in Delahey
A motorcyclist died in a crash in Delahey on Wednesday, 10 July. It’s believed the rider lost control while travelling towards Kings Road from Mcnicholl Way just before 10.30pm. CPR was performed, however, the yet-to-be formally identified rider died at the scene. Anyone who witnessed the collision, or with dashcam is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au
Last chance to speak up Brimbank residents have less than a week remaining to have their say on draft governance policies released late last month. Key changes proposed in the draft Brimbank Governance Rules 2024 include changes to the Councillor Code of Conduct, including an updated definition of misconduct, a values statement added to make the code of council easier to understand, and a prohibition on inciting hatred, especially racial and religious vilification. The changes are seeking to earn and uphold public trust, following a series of incidents within council, which led to municipal monitors being assigned to oversee council proceedings, and the recent three-week suspension of councillor Maria Kerr. The full draft Governance Rules 2024 are available via the online ‘Your Say’ portal.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Sunshine Marketplace’s Kevin Nguyen and Chris Holmes with The One Box program manager Emily Wild (centre). (Supplied)
Traumatic birth support prioritised
steering her from a corporate career back to healthcare.
“It was literally because of my friend’s very sad birth that I became a midwife.”
The birth reflections team was established at the women’s with the help of funding for late-career midwives, allowing experienced clinicians like Kath to focus on debriefing and birth reflection roles.
By Hannah Hammoud
In the halls of the Royal Women’s Hospital, a specialist team of seasoned midwives stands out for its unique initiative in supporting women who have faced unexpected outcomes during childbirth.
Kath Cruickshanks is part of the birth reflections team at the women’s. Her journey intomidwiferybeganwithaprofoundpersonal experience.
“I became a midwife a long time ago because I was privileged enough to be at a friend’s very sad birth. We knew that it was going to be a sad birth, and I was just the support person,” she said.
This event was a turning point for Kath,
“One of our projects was setting up this service at the hospital and seeing womenwhohavehadanunexpectedoutcome,” Kath said.
These outcomes can range from serious post-birth bleeds and severe perineal tears to emergency caesarean sections.
The team’s mission is clear: they see women before they leave the hospital to help them understand their birth experience, answer any lingering questions, and ensure they have the necessary support systems in place.
“It’snotourjobtotalkinthedebriefmoment – our job is to listen,” Kath said.
“It might help them to piece together the moments that led up to the birth, and as senior clinicians we can explain it if they didn’t quite
Kath Cruickshanks is part of the birth reflections team at the Royal Women’s Hospital. (Supplied)
understandoritwastoorushedatthetime.We also make sure that we ask for their feedback on what we as clinicians could have done differently and we also ask them if they would like to give feedback about any particular staff member.”
This year, Birth Trauma Awareness Week (BTAW), which runs from July 16-22, highlights the theme of informed consent, a cornerstone of respectful maternity care. Informedconsentgoesbeyondmerelysaying
Toilet birth scars remain for mum
Lauren Green’s son made an unconventional entrance to the world – into a toilet.
Laurencanseethefunnysidesevenyearson, but the sudden birth left deep scars she’s still coming to terms with.
The nurse had always wanted to be a mum and completing a half marathon flicked a switch in Lauren and spurred her to try for a baby.
FinanceNickwashesitantatfirst,butLauren told him it might take time.
“Then I think we pretty much got pregnant the first time we tried.”
At 38 weeks and one day, Lauren and Nick decided to have one last date night at their local pub.
Lauren went to bed and woke to contractions at 1am.
“While I was sleeping I was obviously dilating and I didn’t know,” she said.
“I thought ‘I’ll just let it happen for a bit, it could be Braxton-Hicks or it might go away’.
“It got pretty intense pretty quickly so I woke Nick up.”
Nick ran a bath for her but she soon got back out.
“I was restless, it didn’t feel right. I was walking around the house remembering my Calmbirth sessions, breathing through it and being mindful.
“I felt comfy on the toilet. The position that yourbodyisinwhenyou’reonthetoiletisquite natural for that process.”
LaurenhadaTENSmachineonherbackand was timing the contractions using her phone. They got closer together and more intense so Nick called the hospital.
On learning that Lauren was only three hours in, the midwife told her it’d be a while longer and she should take some Panadol.
“I thought ‘they’re two minutes apart and they bloody hurt. What do you mean I can’t come in yet?’.
“I had a funny contraction that felt very different from the others.”
Lauren felt like her body was pushing.
“It happened again and I felt Otis’s head coming out.
“Onthethirdweirdcontraction,hecameout into the toilet.
“Nick came barrelling into the bathroom and got him out.
“He was passing him through my legs.
“It was scary.
“I just put him on my chest and said to Nick, ‘You need to call an ambulance’.
“I just sat there then, in shock.”
The ambulance arrived in less than 10 minutes.
Lauren started having contractions again
once she arrived at the hospital.
“That hurt more than the ones I’d had before Otiswasborn,”shesaid.“Iaskedforpainrelief.
“They said to me ‘You had the baby without anything so you’ll be OK’.
“I was lying on the trolley with Otis on my chest and my placenta still inside me.
“After that I felt very calm and I had a beautiful midwife who helped me through the process of delivering the placenta.
“I think my body was fighting it. I was so stressed.
“Once the placenta was out I finally just got to rest.
“Otis was completely fine.
Lauren lodged a complaint with the hospital
following her experience.
“I spent quite a bit of time thinking about what would have happened if he wasn’t breathing,” she said.
“I do spend a bit of time thinking about that – less these days, but more in the year or two after.
“It’s definitely left me with some scars.
“It’s changed the way I think about things.
“We had floated the idea of just having one child before we had Otis anyway, but after that I was like ‘nope, I’m done, I can’t go through that again’.
“I don’t want to go through that again.”
Casey Neill
yes to a procedure. It involves understanding the choices, risks, and benefits involved.
Kath said she has witnessed a positive shift in recent years, where women’s experiences are being listened to and acknowledged.
“Women are amazing. Women’s bodies are amazing. I think to sit there and listen to their stories as a senior midwife is a privilege.
“One of the common themes that pops up when we talk to women is communication. Communication is the number one thing that we are still hearing from women and still working on.”
Kath believes that effective communication and continuity of care are vital.
“Whilst we can help women prepare for birth, we can’t always plan for 100 per cent of everything that happens. Birth is very fluid … it changes on a turn of a dime. We’re hoping that with the work we’re doing we’re able to really stop and help women to be heard and listened to and get on the right pathway before they leave the hospital,” she said.
“Women are being heard and acknowledged with their trauma … I can’t tell you how vital this work is.”
Study challenges coping strategies
A La Trobe University study is hoping to challenge traditional categorisations of coping strategies in a bid to promote autonomy and create empowering childbirth experiences.
The study by the university’s Judith Lumley Centre examined the current coping strategies, with the findings suggesting a shift towards a more holistic approach. It comes amid growing concerns about birth trauma and maternity care experiences that were highlighted in the final report of a New South Wales Parliamentary Inquiry into Birth Trauma, handed down in late May.
In the study, senior researcher and study lead Dr Laura Whitburn, senior researcher Dr Lester Jones and physiotherapist, birth doula and lead author Janine Shifman proposed reframing coping strategies as ‘intrinsic’ and ‘extrinsic’ to shift the focus away from medical interventions.
Intrinsic strategies are those that can be self-generated by women, while extrinsic strategies require the use of equipment or the help of someone else.
The study surveyed 56 women having their first baby at Mercy Hospital for Women, between February and May 2021. Thinking about labour pain as productive and purposeful pain, feeling safeandsupported,andpreparingarange of coping strategies, were identified as three factors most important to women.
“People may assume that pain relief or having their pain under control during labour is a priority but, in fact, it wasn’t explicitly listed among the most important factors to women,” Dr Whitburn said.
The most common intrinsic strategies identifiedincludedbreathingtechniques, generatingapositivemindset,movement and keeping active. Extrinsic strategies, such as using a bath or shower, the use of a TENS machine or having physical contact from support people or a known support person, were recorded as the most common among respondents.
“We’re hoping this will change the conversation and mindset from ‘you’re not coping anymore, so let me take over’ to ‘you’re not coping anymore, so let’s support you with what you need to get you back on track,” Ms Shifman said.
Lauren and her son Otis. (Rob Carew) 386841_01
The journey through birth trauma
By Hannah Hammoud
Thirteen years ago, Leanne Murphy’s life was irrevocably changed by a traumatic birth experience that left her battling with severe physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
Leanne’s ordeal began with the birth of her daughter, Molly, her second child. Despite having had a positive experience with her first child, her expectations for a similar outcome were shattered.
“I was in hospital for 12 hours. I was in the right place at the right time. There was no doctor and no midwife in the room when my daughter was born. It got really scary and I was anxious, and we ended up having to push the emergency button. It was a fear response. I knew that something was wrong, my husband and I were in the room together, no doctor, no midwife … I was calling for help but no one was coming,” Leanne recalled.
Leanne said Molly entered the world amidst chaos.
‘‘ She basically burst out of me and skidded across the bed ... She was actually on my chest before anyone came into the room ’’
- Leanne Murphy
“My husband banged on the emergency button, and to be honest, Molly was coming whethertherewasanyonethereornot.Shetore meallthewaythroughinherentrytotheworld … she basically burst out of me and skidded across the bed on the amniotic fluid and my husband caught her. She was actually on my chest before anyone came into the room,” she said.
The delay in medical response was just the beginningofaseriesoftraumaticevents.During the childbirth, Leanne suffered a fourth-degree tear, leading to severe complications. Despite being in hospital for five days, Leanne said she was discharged without the necessary surgical repair.
“I had poo falling out of me, and post-baby bleeding coming out of an orifice that is now a gaping wound,” she said.
“Why wasn’t I sent to the general anaesthetic repair like I was told? Immediately, or within six hours, or 12 hours, or the next day, or the nextday.AfterfivedaysI’mactuallydischarged without the repair done.”
Despite being well-prepared for childbirth through classes and research, nothing had prepared her for the aftermath of a severe tear.
“Nothing was ever said about the impact of having a fourth-degree tear and what to look out for … there’s no literacy on that, I didn’t know what to ask,” she said.
“How do you ask a question when you don’t know what the question is? How do you know what to ask? I didn’t know what to ask.
“People are like, ‘We don’t want to scare mums before they have their kids’, ‘You can’t
share your story Leanne because you’ll put mums off having kids,’ – well that’s absolutely not fair. You need to have the information so thatyoucangointotheexperiencewell-armed, and well-equipped, so that when – or if –something does go wrong, you’ve got a plan.”
Once she was discharged, Leanne said the struggle to find a surgeon willing to repair the damage added to her torment.
During this period, Leanne was confined to her home, unable to perform basic tasks or care for her children. Leanne’s experience of isolation and helplessness was only further compounded by financial strain.
“I was 34 years old and I couldn’t leave the house. I couldn’t take my kids for a walk, go shopping,ormeetfriends.Ididhaveamother’s group and that was at my house. I said to them, ‘If you don’t come to my house I can’t go’.”
With her husband off work to care for her and their children, and her own maternity leave running out, Leanne said her family faced economic hardship, forcing them to sell theirhouseandmovetoamoreaffordablearea, losing their support network in the process.
Despite these overwhelming difficulties, Leanne found a way to turn her pain into purpose. She retrained as a counsellor, specialising in birth trauma healing.
“The whole takeaway from this was that there was actually no help, I fell through the gaps,” she said.
“In 10 years, I thought the statistics would improve, but there are still 30,000 birth trauma mums a year.
“I’m really proud of what I’ve been able to overcome. I’m reclaiming, and I’m offering a space that wasn’t there for me, and needs to be
there for everybody.”
In 2021, Leanne published a book, Mummy went to hospital, to help her children understand her many hospital visits as she underwent surgeries to repair the damage.
Reflecting on her journey, Leanne remains resilient and hopeful.
“I’m really proud of who I am and who my family has become on the back of this trauma.
We have been pushed to the worst parts of life and had to survive,” she said,
“When the worst happens, there is support there.Youhavetoadvocateforyourself,butyou have to look for support. It’s hard to find the support but it is there. I strongly recommend that people reach out for support, whether that’s for their physical injuries or emotional support.”
YOUR NEW CAREER ... starts here
Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part Time sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.
Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.
The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.
Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.
The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.
Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au
Leanne Murphy with her book in 2022. (Damjan Janevski) 267709_04
Leanne Murphy suffered trauma during the birth of her second child. (Damjan Janevski) 413521_06
NAIDOC Week in Brimbank
NAIDOC Week was celebrated from July 7 to July 14. The celebrations kicked off at the Brimbank Community and Civic Centre on Monday, July 8, with events held at neighbourhood houses across the municipalitythroughouttheweek.Thisyear’s themewasKeeptheFireBurning!Blak,Loud &Proud.
Star Weekly photographers Ljubica Vrankovic and Damjan Janevski were on hand to capture the best parts of the week, includingboomerangpainting.
Adelaide, 5 and Edward, 8. (Damjan Janevski) 417674_09
Event facilitator a Sydenham Neighbourd House Tamay Beam. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 417591_02
Lily, 7. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 417591_09
Aunty Lee-Anne Clarke and her daughter Ella, Lisa Maza, Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic, Rachael Maza, and councillors Sam David and Thuy Dang. (Supplied)
Aunty Lee-Anne Clarke and her daughter Ella. (Supplied)
Emma, 10. (Damjan Janevski) 417676_01
Marvelous, 5, Michael, 8, and Blessing, 8. (Damjan Janevski) 417674_01
Marvelous is proud of his work. (Damjan Janevski) 417674_06
Sheneli, 7. (Damjan Janevski) 417676_06
Caroline Chisholm students ready for their challenges
Caroline Chisholm Catholic College is an inclusive and faith-filled co-educational secondary high school located in Melbourne’s inner west.
It has three campuses across two sites, both located in the heart of Braybrook and accessible by public transport.
Its unique setting allows students to enjoy a single-sex education from years 7 – 9, before moving to the senior co-educational campus in years 10 – 12.
Caroline Chisholm is committed to an education that views each student as an individual, made in the image of God. It pursues excellence in teaching and learning and promotes lifelong learning and spiritual growth.
The college’s holistic educational, religious, pastoral, and co-curricular programs are aimed at forming ‘men and women for others’ – young people who are compassionate, competent, conscientious, and committed.
Its students develop knowledge and skills, such as communication, teamwork and critical thinking, to allow them to be ready to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
The key focuses at the college include student wellbeing, learning and teaching as well as faith and mission. Each of these key focuses are led by one of our college’s deputy principals.
The college has been performing strongly academically, as across the past three years, it has delivered a year-on-year uplift in the percentage of VCE study scores of 40 and over.
During student’s time at the college, it aims to encourage them to not only focus on their academics, but to achieve a well-rounded experience. It has an extensive sport, music, performing arts program as well as many different student clubs to encourage students to pursue their passions and talents. Students are supported by dedicated staff who ensure that they can become the best they are called to be.
To book a tour, discuss the enrolment process or find our more information about what sets Caroline Chisholm Catholic College
apart, visit: cccc.vic.edu.au Applications for year 7, 2026, close on Friday, August 16.
Caroline Chisholm Catholic College encourages its students to explore their talents fully. (Supplied)
Torch shines for Special Olympics
Athletes from Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs made their way to Casey earlier this month for the Winter Special Olympics.TheJuly6-7eventatCaseyStadium and Casey Fields platformed a number of athletes with intellectual disabilities and autism – with a summer games to follow in September.
An opening ceremony at Casey Stadium included a march of athletes and the Victoria Law Enforcement Torch Run. It was followed by tournaments of basketball, gymnastics, netball, bocce and table tennis.
Wyndham netballers, and preparing to hoist the Olympic flag.
Left: Melbourne North athletes (centre) and Melbourne West athletes (above). Right: The opening ceremony at Casey Stadium. (Pictures: Stewart Chambers) 416905
Indigenous dancers welcome the athletes, and Special Olympics affiliates march into the stadium.
The Games torch enters the building (left), and the lighting the flame (above).
Keeping kids in school
By Gerald Lynch
An innovative new program to help keep Victorian students engaged in schooling and complete year 12 has been launched.
AGA developed the year 10 multi-industry pathway program to offer greater opportunities for students to explore their career options while continuing their education.
By offering both vocational pathways alongside the traditional pathway to a Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), the program caters to year 10 students who may be unsure about their future career path or at risk of disengaging before completing secondary school.
Taylors Lakes Secondary College student Bevan Troia joined the program in term one this year, and so far, he’s tried building and construction, electrotechnology, with plumbing and automotive left.
Now, he is more confident about his career choices and completing year 11 and 12 before eventually pursuing a trade.
Bevan enjoys weekly trips to AGA’s purpose-built trades training facility and would recommend the program to others.
“If you don’t know what you want to do in school, I’d suggest to come here and try out the four main trades,” he said.
The multi-industry pathway program was developed in close collaboration with local Department of Education staff, and offers students the opportunity to explore a range of trades, including automotive, building and construction, plumbing, and electrical.
BrimbankMeltonjobs,skills,andpathways manager Maria Cox said the idea for the program arose from the recognised need to keep students engaged in school, and support their career decision-making and transition
to further education and employment.
“The misconception students taking up a trade don’t need to complete high school is just that—a misconception,” she said.
“We have found that completing year 12 sets our young people up for success and contributes to enhanced literacy and numeracy skills, lifelong learning skills, and skills for work.”
Oneofthekeybenefitsoftheprogramisthat it aligns with the state government’s support for recognised VET units being accessible to all students in Victoria. This means students
cangaincredittowardsaVictorianCertificate of Education/ Vocational Major (VCE/VM) while exploring their vocational options in year 10, allowing them to make an informed choice about their future.
AGAalsocollaboratedwithVETspecialists from Deakin University to explore ways of enhancing delivery to school-age students. By placing a strong emphasis on applied learning principles and taking into account how young people learn, this collaboration has resulted in notable improvements in student attendance and outcomes.
Final chance to give feedback
Thereisn’tlongleftforlocalstohavetheir say on the proposed plans for the Albion Quarter.
With online feedback open until Sunday, July 28, and an in-person opportunity from 7am to 9am at Albion Station on Tuesday, July 23, time is running out for residents to have their voices heard.
The Albion Quarter identifies the area surrounding Albion station and covers areas within the suburbs of Albion, Sunshine North and Sunshine. It is one of the three distinct areas of the Sunshine Precinct. It presents an opportunity to revitalise employment uses, provide complementary residential uses and better integrate the area with the rebuilt Albion Station. “We have commenced work on a Structure Plan which will support the transition of Albion Quarter from the current mix of industrial-focused businesses to supporting Melbourne’s next generation of jobs, innovation and services, and provide a space for new residential dwellings close to public transport and active transport connections,” according to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP).
The DTP is also investigating design options to revitalise Stony Creek in Albion Quarter as an ecological and community place, with integrated water management. A draft plan for the Albion Quarter will be put together after the engagement period closes.
AGA trainer Mark Freurwith student Bevan, 16. (Damjan Janevski) 418343_04
Fans flock to United training
Western United fans made their way to Tarneit’s Ironbark Fields on July 9 to watch an open training session ahead of the A-league Men’s season. Players took the time to meet fans after the session. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic capture the action.
Tomoki Imai with a young fan.
Abel Walatee took to the pitch.
Tate Russell takes a selfie with a fan.
Above: The players signed fans’ jerseys after the training session. Below: Abel Walatee meets some fans.
Players Matthew Sutton, James York, Tomoki Imai, Jordan Lauton, Abel Walatee, Dylan Leonard with supporter Dritan Miftari.
Left: Head coach John Aloisi greets a young fan. Centre: Oliver Lavale during the training session. Right: Goalkeeper Matthew Sutton signs a jersey. (Pictures: (Ljubica Vrankovic) 417037
Jordan Lauton works on his skills.
No
or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
6
1 ClosingTime is a 1998 song by which band?
2 For which three films has Octavia Spencer (pictured) been nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the Academy Awards?
3 In baking, what is a pâte brisée?
4 After Rome, what is the most populous Italian city?
5 What is the name of the port that the Sydney Harbour bridge crosses? 6 The TikTok logo was designed to resemble what kind of symbol?
7 Computer software company Adobe was founded in which decade?
8 Which penguin species is known for its unruly yellow crest and red beak?
9 In layers of skin tissue, is the dermis above or below the hypodermis?
10 The big wave surfing competition known as ‘The Eddie’ is held in which country?
No. 194
No. 194
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
Pop up blood drive
Got a bit of time next month? Time to give blood and change lives? One in three people in Sunshine will need blood, and they need people like you to give it. It’s popping up in town from July 29 to August 2 at the Croatian Catholic Centre Sunshine on 22 Fitzgerald Road, Sunshine West.
■ lifeblood.com.au, or 13 14 95
Deer Park Senior Citizens AGM AGM for 2024, held at the Deer Park Lions Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park. Monday, August 12 at 1pm. There will be an election of the committee and other general business.
■ 9363 7326
Women’s only conversation English Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to make friends, learn new skills and practice English in this fun and free women’s social group. Tuesdays during school terms, 9.30am-noon, at Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.
■ 9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au
Crafternoons
Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to a free adult social opportunity to get together and be creative. Learn a new craft or bring along your own craft projects. Tuesdays during school terms, 12.30-2.30pm, at the Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.
■ 9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au
Sunshine Heights Junior Soccer Club
The club is on the lookout for more girls to join its junior soccer teams from ages under-8s through to under-14. If you are keen to join, training is held every Tuesday and Thursday at Castley Reserve from 5.30pm – except for under 14 girls who train from 6.30pm.
■ theclub@sunshineheightsjsc.com.au
Girl Guides
Brimbank District Girl Guides is inviting locals to come and try guides before committing to join. Girls aged 5-18 and adults are invited to enjoy the fun and friendship of guiding.
■ Carolyn, 0418 536 084
Sunshine Repair Cafe
Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Café in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.
■ sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082
Card games
Love playing the card game 500? Card games are played every Monday, from 7-10pm, at the Sunshine RSL offices, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine.
■ Leisa, 0425 768 808
Al-Anon Family Groups
Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. Confidential meetings held at the Sydenham Neighbourhood Centre (rear of library) every Wednesday, from 1-2:30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary. The group is also offering two introductory Alateen meetings in the July
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of L2R Dance members Nolly Zaa Thang, Jacinda Richards, L’wel (Ligi) and Hena Memishi. (Damjan Janevski) 416960_01
school holidays on July 3, and 10, at the same time as the Al-Anon meeting in an adjacent room. Facilitated by two certified (WWCC) and experienced Al-Anon members. Parents are invited to bring their teens and join the adult meeting.
Keilor Day View Club
The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies.
■ Robyn, 0425 387 880
Deer Park Lions Club
Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park.
■ Michael, 0417 307 572
Sunshine Community Brass
Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays, from 7.30pm.
■ Andrew, 0419 444 620
St Albans senior citizens
St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm. Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day.
■ Roma, 0435 991 064
Palliative volunteers needed
Mercy Palliative Care is looking for volunteers to visit palliative care patients in their homes to offer social support.
■ 9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au
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.
Women’s Support Group Melton is for any women who feel they would like to attend a peer support group which is relaxed, friendly and non-judgemental. The group meets weekly at 1pm on Mondays (except for public holidays) at Djerriwarrh Neighbourhood House, 239 Station Road, Melton. The group can discuss most subjects that may be of help
■ https://ow.ly/QVwJ50Q5g42
Caroline Springs Rotary
The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via Zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall, from 7pm.
■ rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com
Melton 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
Seniors lunch
Deer Park Branch of National Seniors Australia hosts a lunch on the third Friday of each month at different venues. The group also arranges activities each month, sometimes to the theatre, morning melodies, train or bus trip. The group also holds a general meeting at The Club in Caroline Springs on the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm. Locals are invited to join in for lunch or just attend the meeting and make new friends.
■ Pamela, pcostello46@hotmail.com
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
Camaraderie drives new play
By Eddie Russell
Elves, orcs, dragons, and warriors are coming to Melton this week, with Melton Performing Arts bringing acclaimed playwright Qui Nguyen’s SheKillsMonstersto life.
The production follows protagonist Agnes, who attempts to learn more about her dead younger sister through the beloved fantasy role playing game Dungeons & Dragons.
Tickets are available for two shows on Saturday, July 20 at 2pm and 7pm.
The play blends comedy and drama as the charactersfacechallengesoftherealworldand otherworldly respectively.
Cast member Josh Tooth, who is also on the
Melton Performing Arts committee, said the group was about more than just putting on plays.
“Our ethos is not necessarily driving our own productions but providing a means for people to put on their own interests,” he said.
“Our passion is building performing arts in the community.”
Tooth, who is an “avid” Dungeons & Dragons fan, said the story appealed to him because of his own experiences playing the game.
“Coming from a ‘D’n’D’ background and loving that connection that comes from a ‘D’n’D’ group … my favourite part is the way the main character explores the relationship
with her sister … through playing the module that her sister created.”
Darin Casler plays Miles, the boyfriend of Agnes.
While Casler does not have the same love for the game as other cast members, he can still see what it means to them.
“I’ve never played ‘D’n’D’ but Katie [a cast member] sent us a video of the creator of the playsayinghelearnedEnglishthroughplaying it,” Casler said.
“That camaraderie resonates with me; I have friends that play and they get together and communicate after all these years.”
Shakespeare classic, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, will be played until July 20 at the Bluestone Church Arts Space in Footscray.
The Sevenfold Theatre Company play, set in ancientAthens,promisestocaptivateaudiences with its story of young lovers’ adventures in a magical forest where fairies meddle with their affections, causing chaos.
With mistaken identities and love potions, chaos reigns until the fairies set things right, leading to weddings and joy for all (kind of).
Uniquely incorporating live music and
sound,thecastscreatealivescoreusingvarious instruments, voices, and their own bodies.
Carefully crafted acoustic soundscapes create the forest’s ambiance, build suspense and enhance the mood of each scene.
Director Mitchell Wills said, “Our rendition of dream is exploring something new for the company, live music produced entirely by the actors on the stage. Although it was rather terrifyingnottohavesheetmusicfortheactors to learn before the first rehearsal, what we have gained is this living, breathing and incredibly charming soundscape from start to finish”.
Performer Lore Burns said, “I was quite nervous joining this show to start with due to my ongoing recovery from being hit by a car last year and being unsure of how I would go physically, but it’s been so much fun that even whenI’mexhaustedIfeelsupportedandhappy.
“I’ve never had to play cello whilst simultaneously delivering a monologue before, so that’s been a fun/scary challenge and something very unique in the show.”
VivaItalia!iscomingtotheBoweryTheatrethis week,showcasingaseriesofworksbasedonthe Italian travels of local artist John Barcham.
The exhibition is a collection of some of Barcham’s most esteemed pieces, all under the umbrella of his wife’s heritage and their trips together.
“The creation of this series of works spans about 10 years. They are my response as an artist to my involvement with Melbourne’s Sammachese (people who come from San Marco in Lamis) community as well as trips with my Sammachese wife to Italy and San
Marco in Lamis in the beautiful Gargano region of the province of Puglia,” he said.
“The works have never been shown in their entiretyandshowntogethercontainanarrative of my personal Italian journey. All the works are created from direct experience using my own photography as studio reference.
“The response by people, particularly Italians, to the work is quite extraordinary. During the 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s Italians were often subject to ethnic vilification. This coupled with the then government policy of assimilation rather than today’s policies of
Comedy at Crossroads
For a play about a disappointing Friday night at the pub, the Wyndham Theatre Company putting its latest production, AfterDinner , on Friday and Saturday nights might seem like a brave move.
But director and WTC member Fiona Scarlett is confident audience members leaving the Crossroads Theatre, where AfterDinneris on until July 20, will have had a much more enjoyable evening than the characters depicted in the play.
“It’s definitely very funny and the cast bringalotofcomedytotheroleandreally good character work,” Scarlett said.
“The narrative is very simple but the characters are really well developed.”
Those characters include Paula, Monika, Dympie. Stephen and Gordon who all just want have a good night at the pub.
But when the band doesn’t play, the waiters ignore them and people can’t keep their issues to themselves, the farce begins.
Written by Australian playwright Andrew Bovell in 1987, After Dinner features costumes and a soundtrack which will transport audience members back to the Friday night dance floors of almost four decades ago.
Scarlett said this was one of the factors that attracted WTC to the play.
“We were searching around for theatre pieces that had a smallish cast and a simple set and I’d come across this play yearsandyearsagoanditjuststuckinmy mind as a nice snapshot of Australiana,” she said, highlighting Werribee local Katrina Gauci as Dympie and James Hammond as Stephen as performances audience members should look out for.
After Dinner is on at Crossroads Theatre on July19 and 20 at 8pm, with a 2pm matinee on Saturday.
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/ CSIKJ
Cade Lucas
multiculturalism has meant that subsequent generations have lost touch with much of their language and culture.”
The exhibtion will be unveiled at a launch event on Friday, July 19, at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans, from 6pm to 8pm, and will then be available for free, public viewing from 9am to 5pm every weekday until September 7.
Gerald Lynch
The Sevenfold Theatre Company performers Amy Watts, Lore Burns, Lucy May Knight and Jackson Cross. (Damjan Janevski) 416680_04
John Barcham in his home studio with a piece that will be on display in the gallery. (Supplied)
Cast member David Prince in his costume for character ‘Orcus’. (Supplied)
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Apart from black and white, which three colours typically feature on an archery target?
2. Who is the captain of the Opals?
3. The 1981 historical drama Chariots of Fire is centred around what sport?
4. The government has pledged a record investment of how many million dollars to the Australian Sports Commission?
5. What is typically the largest sport in the Summer Olympics, by both number of events and number of athletes competing?
6. True or false: neither Cate nor Bronte Campbell have won an individual Olympic gold medal?
7. How many Essendon footballers were suspended as a result of the early 2010s supplement saga?
8. Manx cyclist Mark Cavendish broke what all-time record at Stage 5 of the 2024 Tour de France?
9. The highest-paid player in the league, Shohei Ohtani plays for which Major League Baseball team?
10. Which two tennis players, Australian and Swiss
13. An injury to what body part has forced Aryna Sabalenka's withdrawal from Wimbledon 2024?
14. Which Canada-based NHL team did the Florida Panthers defeat to win the 2024 Stanley Cup?
15. Which country is making its debut in the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship?
16. Australian sisters Jess and Noemie Fox will compete at the 2024 Summer Olympics in which sport?
17. The 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup is scheduled to be hosted in which country in October?
18. Which two years did Australian golf professional Cam Davis win the PGA Tour's Rocket Mortgage Classic?
19. Which team selected Canadian ice hockey player Macklin Celebrini first overall in the 2024 NHL draft?
20. Which nation’s American football team did Canada defeat to win the 2024 IFAF U20 World Junior Championship?
21. By how many runs did India defeat South Africa in the final of the T20 Cricket World Cup?
22. And which Indian fast bowler was named player of the tournament?
23. Picked second in the 2024 NBA draft, French basketballer Alex Sarr played for which NBL team?
24. Which Mercedes F1 driver won the Austrian GP after Max Verstappen and Lando Norris clashed during the race?
25. Which national league is faced with a potential ball shortage ahead of the finals due to a pay dispute?
26. Which New Zealand-born rugby union player is the captain of Australia’s national team?
27. Which country topped the overall medal tally at the 2022 Winter
28. Which AFL team, playing away from home, beat ladder-leaders Sydney by one point in Round 16?
29. In what year was the distinctive jersey introduced for the King of the Mountains leader in the Tour de France?
30. In which year did cricketer Trevor Chappell infamously bowl an underarm delivery against New Zealand?
Yellow, red, blue
Notice of Approval of Amendment Amendment C225brim
The Minister for Planning has approved Amendment C225brim (the Amendment) to the Brimbank Planning Scheme.
The Amendment came into operation on 27 June 2024 when a notice was published in the Victoria Government Gazette
The Amendment implements the Brimbank Planning Scheme Review (2017) and updates the local policies in the Brimbank Planning Scheme by replacing the Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) and Local Planning Policy Framework (LPPF) at Clause 21 and Clause 22 with a Municipal Planning Strategy (MPS), local policies within the Planning Policy Framework (PPF) and selected local schedules, particular provisions, and operational provisions consistent with the structure introduced by Amendment VC148
A copy of the Amendment can be inspected, free of charge, at the Department of Transport and Planning website at www.planning.vic.gov.au/public-inspection or by contacting 1800 789 386 to arrange a time to view the Amendment.
A copy of the Amendment can also be inspected, free of charge, during office hours, at the offices of the Brimbank City Council, 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine and on the Council website at www.brimbank.vic.gov.au
Kelvin Walsh
Director City Futures
Olympic Games in Beijing?
Goolagong Cawley
Jasprit Bumrah
Aryna Sabalenka
Lando Norris
Cannon fires first shot in EV race
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
The GWM Cannon has become the first full electric utility in Australia, the Alpha Ultra Hybrid muscling in between the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Mac and the full-sized pick-ups from Chevrolet, Ford, Ram and Toyota.
The Cannon dual cab flagship also strengthens GWM’s New Energy Vehicle strategy, becoming the brand’s sixth NEV offering following the Jolion Hybrid, Tank 300 and 500 hybrids and Ora EV.
Coming in three variants with a 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel engine, or 2-litre turbo petrol motor, the latter linked with a hybrid powertrain, all are mated with a nine-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4×4 system.
Prices start at $51,990 for the Cannon Alpha Lux diesel, the Alpha Ultra diesel comes in from $57,990, while the hybrid Alpha Ultra takes flagship honours from $64,990. All are drive-away prices. . All are covered by the maker’s seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty.
Standard equipment includes LED headlights, a 360-degree camera, dual zone climate control, locking rear diff, 12.3-inch instrument cluster, 12.3-inch information screen, wireless smartphone mirroring, six speaker audio, power adjustable driver’s seat, leather-style upholstery and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The Ultra grade adds panoramic sunroof, 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, heated, ventilated, massaging front seats with power adjustment, while the Ultra Hybrid takes on head-up windscreen display, power folding exterior mirrors with memory, semi-automatic parking assist and auto reverse assist.
GWM Cannon Alpha Ultra Hybrid buyers enjoy a seven-year, unlimited kilometre warranty, seven years roadside assist and five years of capped price servicing.
Styling
As mentioned above, the new Cannon Alpha leaves the opposition (literally) in the shade, with dimensions of 5445mm long, 1992mm
wide,1924mmheight,and3350mmwheelbase, and 35mm longer overall, 57mm wider, 38mm taller and 120mm longer between the front and rear wheels than the standard GWM Cannon Ute.
This gives the newbie a solid stance on the street and the test vehicle’s black paintwork offers maximum contrast, with just enough chrome work, and LED headlamps.
The tailgate holds a few surprises. The whole soft-open gate folds down at the press of a button in the centre of the GWM hallmark. Touch the same button for a second and the 60/40 gate opens barn door-style for ease of loading and unloading the tub.
Interior
Nappa leather upholstery and heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats are complemented by a heated steering wheel, plus two-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated rear seats with welcome function and wireless phone charger.
Rear leg and head room are generous and occupants can take advantage of a panoramic roof and sliding rear window as in the Nissan Navara for extra ventilation.
Infotainment
Inside, there is a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 10-speaker Infinity sound system, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, head-up windscreen display and wireless smartphone charger. An unusual addition is an analogue clock, found more in top-shelf saloons such as Bentley and Lexus, and 64-colour ambient lighting,
Engines/transmissions
The range-topping 2-litre turbo petrol hybrid enginedeliversacombined255kWofpowerand 648Nmoftorqueagainst135kWand480Nmof the 2.4-litre turbodiesel. Both are hooked up to a nine-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive with lock-up front and rear differentials.
The Ram 1500 V8 pick-up has been available with a mild-hybrid system for some years.
This is no mild hybrid where the electric motor only assists the internal combustion
engine and cannot drive the wheels without using the ICE, as with the Ultra Hybrid.
Safety
No word on the Cannon Alpha Ultra Hybrid ANCAP safety rating yet but the GWM Tank 500 SUV, which shares much of its platform and cabin with the Alpha ute was recently awarded a top five-star rating by ANCAP.
Standardsafetyfeaturesincludeautonomous emergencybraking(withpedestrianandcyclist detection), adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, front and rear cross-traffic assist, lane-keep assist, lane centring, emergency lane-keeping, traffic sign recognition and surround-view camera with transparent chassis mode.
Cannon diesels have four parking sensors up front and four at the rear, while the Ultra Hybrid has six up front and six at the back.
The Alpha offers seven airbags, including a front-centre bag between the driver and front-seat passenger.
Driving
First up, just a word about the ‘voice of the vehicle’: Has driving come to this? During time with the Cannon Alpha Ultra Hybrid the person behind the wheel (and passengers) were ‘assaulted’ by a constant stream of inane audio and visual female pleas to ‘concentrate on driving’ for seemingly little reason. ‘Florence’ in the machine even urged the driver to ‘take a break’.
The source of all this ‘evil eye’ was a camera attached to the A-pillar focused on the driver –so distracting. In the end, this driver could not even bother to seek out a way to switch off the system: too busy concentrating on driving.
Fromrest,theturbo-petrolwasatadtardyon the take-up and when engaged had a tendency to lurch off the mark. On the move, the big fella was relatively easy to get on with, although the suspension had a habit of resisting easy going over blemished bitumen.
Overtaking was capably executed, and light steering came into its own on slow parking manoeuvres, which were not the ‘friendliest’ with such a bulky vehicle. GWM claims a fuel consumption of 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the combined urban/highway cycle.
The test hybrid recorded at worst, more than 15 litres per 100 kilometres around town and 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres on a trip down the motorway.
Three all-terrain drive modes, eco, normal, sport, are very much set and forget for the driver. Sport mode reduces throttle power regeneration, while Normal/Eco mode increases deceleration of system-regenerating energy. It can also lock front and rear differentials.
Towing capacity is a healthy 3500kg braked and 750kg unbraked. Wading depth is up to 800mm.
Summary
The GWM Cannon Alpha is big on things like interior space and towing strength, and the Ultra Hybrid frugal on fuel use. On the downside, the touchscreen is not easy to manipulate while on the move. As for the intrusions of ‘Florence’ in the machine, if that’s artificial intelligence, you can shove it!
The Cannon dual cab flagship strengthens GWM’s New Energy Vehicle strategy. (Supplied)
Snapping around the grounds
There was plenty of action across Melbourne’s north-west at the weekend. StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic shot some of the action.
Sunbury Lions’ Brock Landt. 418821_23
Brightness behind the clouds for Hillside and West Coburg’s game. 418823_06
Sunbury Lions’ Sarah Croft and Melton’s Emma Vitalone. 418824_03
Melton goalkeeper Taylar Storier. 418820_02
Melton and Werribee teams. 418820_21
Melton’s Ryan Carter (left) and Sunbury Lions’ Ben Eales. 418821_12
Caroline Springs came out on top against Yarraville Seddon. 418793_04
Revved up Falcons beat Warriors
A pregame rev up made sure the City West Falcons were switched on for their home clash against the Western Warriors in the Victorian Netball League championship.
The Falcons under-23s were disappointing in the first game on Wednesday night, and Falcons coach Marg Lind said she wanted to make sure the championship side was switched ontomakesuretheydidn’tsufferthesamefate.
They started well and were able to build a solid performance on the way to an 82-56 win.
Lind was pretty pleased with the performance.
“I ripped into them after the under-23s performance,” she said. “They let them get out to a 10-goal lead and I said, look they have come to play and we don’t want to lose our momentum’’.
“We played pretty well. They threw everything at us. We’ve done some good work on footwork and it paid off.
“Juls [Julia Woolley] and Kim [Borger] have quick feet.”
LindsaidtheFalcons’attackingendputouta really strong performance and made few errors across the night, especially in the first half. They rotated the defensive combinations as well.
“Sussu’s [Liai] footwork had been really good,” Lind said. “We played her with Mel [Oloamanu] and Sophie with Mel and Sophie [Hanrahan] and Sussu,
“They all offered different aspects and played really well.”
Lucia Fauonuku played enough minutes to qualify her for finals, while Oliva Cameron has also played enough quarters to qualify after coming in as a replacement player.
Lind said they were also hopeful of having star shooter Uneeq Palavi back from Suncorp Super Netball competition for the final round of the season.
While things are coming together for the championship side, it’s an easy equation for the under-23s. They need to win in the final round or likely miss out on playing finals.
On Wednesday night, they lost 54-51 to the Warriors.
Lind said it was a really disappointing performance from the group and they weren’t mentally switched on.
The Falcons face the Casey Demons in the final round.
Thechampionshipside,alreadyknowsit will facetheBoroondaraExpressinthefirstweekof finals, with a grand final spot on the line.
The under-23s need to beat the Demons, or if they lose, they need bottom side Gippsland Stars to beat the Peninsula Waves, who sit two points behind them.
Lind said the championship side wanted to get through the final round unscathed.
“We need to make sure we keep our eyes on everything and not get ahead of ourselves,” she said.
“Casey will be tough and always a nemesis for us.”
Tara Murray
Saints eye a strong finish
By Tara Murray
St Albans Saints are focused on trying to avoid relegation from the National Premier League competition.
The Saints have struggled this season, with just four wins, the lastest coming in the most recent round.
Coach Cameron Watson said the win against Heidelberg United was much-needed.
“It was definitely nice to win at home considering the amount of games we’ve had at home,” he said.
“Hopefully it’s a stepping stone for the last month of football. We’re unclear how many go down so we want to be out of the bottom two.
“We need to make sure we are third last or above.”
Watson said the win against Heidelberg United was one that would give the side plenty of confidence in the run home.
Heidelberg United sits in the top six and is aiming for a finals berth.
The Saints scored in the second half to win
1-0.
“The first 20 minutes was cagey by both sides,” he said.
“They had a couple of first half chances and in the second half as well.
“We had our two or three chances, which included the goal. It was good that the boys didn’t let them come out in front and we kept a clear sheet.
“We haven’t had too many of those games.”
Among those to run out for the Saints was former Melbourne Victory captain Leigh Broxham, in his first game for the club.
Watson said it was exciting to see him out there.
“He was great,” he said. “I’ve known him for such a long time.
“I gave him a call and he said why not. He’s been playing so long he was probably missing the game.
“Hopefully he can help me and boys. It all happened quite quickly and he was able to play the whole 90 minutes.”
Oliver Dragicevic, Lucas Byrns, Michael
Sports shorts
Soccer
Western United duo Jake Najdovski and Dylan Leonard have been named in the Young Socceroos team for the 2024 ASEAN under-19 boys’ championship. The tournament, which was formerly known as the AFF Championship, featured 12 members from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Football Federation, and will be held in Indonesia.
VPLW
Keilor Park has added some goal scoring power for the back part of the Victorian Premier League women’s season. Keiwa Hieda scored two goals on debut for the Eagles against Geelong. Hieda moved to Australia in 2022, where she won the VPLW with Preston Lions, before moving to Calder United in the National Premier League women’s. Her performances earned her a spot in the A-League with Western United, helping them to a top four finish. The Eagles were third on the ladder heading into the weekend.
Cricket
Martinovic, Ryan Mudaliar and Josh Fowler are other new signings.
Watson said all the boys who got out there for their debuts played really well.
The Saints sit in 13th spot after 21 rounds, just one point behind Manningham United Blues.
The Saints were set to face Altona Magic on Sunday, after deadline, in round 22.
The Saints play all but one of their games at home for the remainder of the season.
Watson said the biggest thing for them was making sure they are mentally switched on for every game.
“It doesn’t matter who you play,” he said. “Heidelberg is a good team with some good players.
“We want to try and repeat those efforts no matter who we play.
“Half of the balance is mindset and turning up and being motivated. Physically we know what is required.
“We want to keep improving and put ourselves in a good position.”
Former Caroline Springs batter Farzan Chowna has been named as part of Cricket Victoria’s first, talented rookie program. The high-performance initiative will further bolster Cricket Victoria’s connection with Premier Cricket to enhance the development of the next generation of Victorian rookies. This will involve tailored individual plans for all identified players, targeted skill development, analysis and leadership sessions, training and education opportunities with the Victorian senior squad, while also working closely with the Melbourne Stars and Renegades T20 teams and performance managers.
Olympics
Former Keilor Thunder player Dante Exum has been named in the Australian Boomers squad for the Olympics. The Dallas Mavericks star was named in the 12-man squad after a number of warm up games. The Thunder’s Maddy Rocci missed out on the Australian Opals squad despite strong form in all the warm up games.
FOR MORE SPORT,
Olivia Cameron. (Robbab Photography)
Josh Divin. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 405192_05
Eagles flying high to keep lofty ambitions alive
Keilor Park set lofty expectations heading in the FV state league 2 north-west season and it remains on track.
After struggling last year and being relegated from state league 1 north-west after finishing second bottom, the Eagles have one loss in the first 14 rounds.
Coach Serge Sabbadini said they knew they neededtohaveagoodseasonafterlastyear,but it had been better than what they had expected.
“We had to turn it around,” he said.
“We pulled out all the stops and it’s working OK.
“It was disappointing dropping down a division and we had to make sure to come back up again.
“We are aiming to be in the NPL [National Premier League] which is two divisions above. We have to win two promotions.”
Sabbadini said the aim for them this season was to do enough to make sure that they get promoted back into state league 1.
He said now with the position they’ve in, they have everything in front of them.
“Threemorewinswilllikelygetuspromoted, while four wins will likely give us the title.”
Sabbadini said the biggest thing for him leading into this season was having coached the side for the last nine weeks of last season.
He said it gave him a head start on what they needed in the squad, staring with defence and building from there.
“We made a big effort to get good people,” he said. “Not just good players, but good people for the club that want to play for us.”
Sabbadini said they had a few injuries at the moment so their depth has been tested.
They had three starting players out of their side in their round 14 wins.
“I wanted to have a squad of 16 to 18 really good players in case we got some injuries.
“The squad is really strong and it’s not just three players.”
The Eagles were set to face Geelong Rangers on Saturday afternoon, after deadline.
They then face second placed Westvale Olympic this week in a massive match.
Sabbadini said as a whole club things were
going well and they were really ambitious
‘The women’s side are close to promotion as well,” he said. “The club has the facilities and need to be in the NPL.
“I’ve been coaching in that division my
Jets eye strong finish
By Tara Murray
The Western Jets are hoping to finish the Coates Talent League girls season strongly.
It’s been an interrupted few weeks for the competition, with not as many games due to the under-18 national championships.
Coach Hayley Gossow said there’s both positives and negatives about the break.
“It’s been a bit on and off with Vic Metro,” she said.
”It’s always a long season and it gives them a break, but the momentum wears a little bit.”
The break gives many of the Jets the opportunities to play at their home clubs.
For a couple in Sierra Grieves and Lou-Lou Fieldthey’vebeenpartoftheVicMetrosquad, while Gossow is part of the coaching team.
Gossow said she’d been thrilled with their development this season.
“Sierra has had a really strong year for us and was best on ground in the academy game.
“Lou-Lou has been a bit more with school
footy, then all-stars and now metro. It’s been a good balance for her.
“I’ve been really pleased with how they’ve attacked their footy this year. They’ve shown positive signs and improvement in games.”
For the Jets it has been an up and down season with just two wins from eight matches in the Coates Talent League season.
Gossow said there had been a mixture of performances with a young squad.
“We’ve had a young list this year, two-thirds bottom age,” she said. “We’ve played some good footy and it’s been good to see all the young kids getting games and development for next year.
“Some of our top agers are new with most of our new recruits, 17-year-olds.”
GossowhighlightedAlexMcBride-Loaneas one of the standout bottom agers this season.
“She’s been a standout,” she said. “She’s a train on with the metro squad.
“She’s been part of the 16s, the futures program and now in the under-18 program.
We played a handful of games last year as a 16-year-old.
“Last year she played as a forward, this year she’s been more in defence and as our second ruck.
“It’s been good education in different roles.”
The Jets are back in action this Saturday, travelling down to Tasmania to face the Tassie Devils.
Gossow said she wasn’t keen on the cold weather, but it would be good for the side along with the boys team to travel down there asagroup,withbothteamsplayingtheDevils.
For the rest of the season, Gossow said they’re keen to get as much out of the players as they can.
“I think we want to see them all do well,” he said. “As coaches we want to continue to help them develop as girls and finish the season.
“We’ll look at what areas they want to hone in on and focus on working hard at training and take learnings into games and see the little improvements.”
Gritty Knights back on track
The Melbourne Knights have turned their National Premier League season around to be back in finals contention.
After a tough start to the season which resulted in a coaching change, the Knights were sitting in eighth spot after 21 rounds, just two points outside the top six.
Captain-coach Ivan Franjic said it was pleasing to have got their season back on track.
“We’ve definitely back in the finals mix,” he said. “I’m never fully happy, but I’m happier.
“It’s been some hard work and it’s slowly working and paying off.”
Franjic paid tribute to his team for the hard work they’ve done to turn the season around and get back in the mix for finals for a second straight year.
He said sometimes things like this happen quickly, other times it will take a bit more time.
“The boys have been putting in the hard work and the results are coming.”
To help try and secure that finals spot, the Knights added some players in the transfer window before it closed.
Hatim Far comes across from France having previously played in the country’s second division. More recently he had played in division 3 and 4.
Geoffry Lino comes from Bentleigh Greens with Franjic saying he fills a need as a striker-winger where they lacked a bit of depth.
Anton Primorac is the third addition joiningtheclubfromMelbourneVictory.
Franjic said he was still really young and will have to be patient but he fits their system.
Tommy Semmy and Felipe Sanchez have departed the club.
The Knights were due to face fifth placed Heidelberg United on Friday night, after deadline.
Franjic said they weren’t planning on changing what they had been doing.
“We take it week by week,” he said.
“Wefocusontheweekaheadandtakeon who we are playing.
“We focus on ourselves and we want to win every game. It we win every game we will be in the top six.
“Heidelberg are a really good team. We are up for the challenge and looking forward to getting a positive result.”
Tara Murray
whole life. We want to get into that division for the juniors and the junior women in the club.
“The whole club is crying out to be in NPL.”
Tara Murray
Keilor Park is flying this season. (GEM Photography)
Laura Kane (middle) with Sarah Poustie and Sierra Grieves. (AFL)
Saints just hang on to bring down Tullamarine
St Albans was able to do enough to hold on and comeawaywiththepointsagainstTullamarine in the Essendon District Football League division 1 competition.
The battle between fourth and fifth came down to the final kick of the game, with a shot from Stephen McCallum to win the game for the Demons missing.
For the Saints, it gets them back on the winners list after two straight losses.
“It’s good to be back on the winners,” coach Zammy Muhtari said,
“Itwasatoughgameandtheconditionswere tough.Welostacoupleofgamesandhavesixto eight players out at the moment.
“We had to make some adjustments and just find a way. We have the mentality of the next person come in and play a role.
“We take the four points and move on.”
Muhtari said the breeze at one side favoured
one side of the ground before it became swirly.
There was also a bit of rain for the Demons first foray to Leo Dineen Reserve.
Muhtari said the Demons really fought hard and it was whichever team took their opportunities in the end that would get the win.
“We were 16 points up at three quarter time,” he said. “We had the first two shots of the final quarter.
Tulla,theyfoughtandmadethemostoftheir opportunities late [to get back into the game]
“They had their opportunities to win the game and we were able to hang on. McCallum marked with 20 seconds to go.
“He ran in and kicked it on the siren. He kicks that we go down. This time we were on the right side which is pleasing.”
Mason Dipetta kicked three goals for the Saints while Ben McManus and Andrew Papazoglou kicked two each.
Muhtari singled out the performance of Jayden Kretiuk, who stepped up in the ruck, and did a good job against Michael Sikora.
He said it was also good to see Alex Tsia overcome some diversity earlier in the year, to make his senior debut.
Thunder is finals’ bound
By Tara Murray
Keilor Thunder is hoping to take some strong form into its first National Basketball League 1 South women’s finals series.
The Thunder finished the regular season in second spot after splitting its two final round matches.
The second of those matches was against the Knox Raiders, with the win giving the Raiders the minor premiership
Thunder coach Krisiti Harrower said heading into the final round that both its matches were important.
“We win both those matches, we finish top,” she said. “It’s a massive weekend for us.
“We didn’t have a good game against the Dandenong Rangers a couple of weeks ago, We have had to refocus and regroup and get ready for finals.
“We have been working hard the last couple of weeks and focusing on things we have to focus on.”
Harrower said while disappointed to lose to the Rangers, only their second loss of the season, they took plenty of positives out of it.
She said it was a good thing for them.
“Sometimes when you keep winning you don’t focus on things that you need to,” he said.
“It’s really good to refocus and regroup and work hard on things.
“We’re getting ready for this weekend and finals the week after.”
Harrower said they would have taken the season they had at the start of the year.
She said she’s been surprised by the way the group has gone.
“They are such a good group to coach,” she said. “We don’t have any egos or high maintenance.
“They make my job easier.”
The Thunder’s finals boosts have received a boost with guard Maddy Rocci to be present for the rest of the season.
Roocci had been in contention to make the Olympics team, but missed out despite strong performances in all the lead up games.
Harrower, who represented Australia at ?? Games, said missing out is one of the hardest things to go through.
“Being selfish, it is good for us,” she said.
The Saints sit fourth on the ladder. Just one game and percentage separate the top four.
“It feels like a real even competition,” he said. “We lost two games in a row, but we had opportunities to win, we were in front in both games.
“Weweren’tabletoproducethatfourquarter performance. We want to push for that third spot, but we have a tough run home.”
The Saints this week face Keilor Park before they have the bye.
Muhtari said it would give them a chance to freshen up some players with a number to return in the coming weeks.
Andre Srour, Bol Kolang, Adeola Akintola and Jackson Volpato are among those set to return.
Caroline Springs continued its good form as its pushes for Western Football League women’s top two finish with a win against Yarraville Seddon.
With not much between the top four sides, every result is important in the back part of the season.
The Lakers scored the only five goals of the first half to lead by 32 points at the break.
The Eagles got on the board in the third quarter to reduce the margin to 21 points at the final change.
It was the Lakers who finished the stronger, winning 8.6 (54)-2.1 (13).
Skipper Caitlin Pretty kicked three goalsfortheLakers,whileJacintaKondis and Nikki Perrett kicked two each.
Stephanie Thompson, Jasmine Bongiovanni and Alana Ellis were named the Lakers best.
The Lakers sit in second position, percentage behind Werribee Centrals. The Suns and Parkside are a game back, but have a game in hand.
In other results, North Sunshine lost to Werribee Centrals, 35.20 (230)-1.0 (6). In the men’s division 1, Caroline Springs won a thriller against Parkside, 10.12 (72)-10.8 (68).
The Lakers led at every break and managed to hold off the fast finishing Magpies, who kicked five goals in the final quarter.
“The Olympics are the pinnacle.
“The only good thing for Maddy and it’s hard to tell her, she still has another two or three Olympics depending on how long she wants to play for.
“It’s tough for her at the moment and it’s not something you get over in a couple of days. It takes some time.
“She had her support group around her and we’re lucky to have her back and she’ll play a big role for the team.
“She is a leader of the group and good to have her back.”
It will be a first finals series for the Thunder in their third season in the NBL1 South women’s competition.
Harrower said they need to go out with confidence and belief and it should hold them in good stead.
“Whatever happens, happens,” she said.”
It was heartbreak for the men’s side which suffered two final rounds matches to slip out of the top eight.
The Thunder finished with the same amount of wins as eighth, but had a poorer percentage.
Jerome Caterino, who kicked three goals, was named the Lakers best along with Alexander Paech and Jamie Ristoski.
The Lakers sit in second spot, eight points clear of third placed Yarraville Seddon.
In division 2, Sunshine Heights beat North Sunshine, 18.20 (128)-2.5 (17) and Sunshine was too strong for Braybrook, 28.19 (187)-3.6 (24).
Albanvale had a tough day against Newport, losing 19.16 (130)-7.4 (46) and Albion remains undefeated after beating the Suns, 23.19 (157)-3.3 (21).
Nyomi Stowers. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 418793_24
Jayden Kretiuk stood up for St Albans. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Penina Davidson will be a key for Keilor Thunder in finals. (NBL1/Keilor Thunder)
