Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 16th July 2024

‘‘ Sometimes we feel like we are trapped on an island because we can’t get out when there are accidents on the Western Freeway ’’ - Manish Baisoya

Station petition on track

By Eddie Russell

More than 2300 people have signed a petition calling for a train station to be built in Mt Atkinson.

The petition, which will be tabled in state Parliament and is sponsored by Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch, calls on the state government to plan and deliver Mt Atkinson station.

The station would service at least 12,000 locals in Mt Atkinson, Fraser Rise, Deanside, and Grandview, according to the petition.

Pettion leader Manish Baisoya said Mt Atkinson residents’ dependance on motor

vehicles for transport was becoming a serious issue.

“Sometimeswefeellikewearetrappedonan island because we can’t get out when there are accidents on the Western Freeway,” he said.

Future activity in Mt Atkinson, including a planned town centre and hotel, will only exacerbate the traffic, Mr Baisoya said.

He said the train station would help locals access work.

Last week, the West of Melbourne Economic Development Alliance (WoMEDA) released its half yearly economic update, which revealed Melton had a high number of workers who were forced to leave the municipality for work.

Mr Baisoya said the station would also improve access to the Sri Durga Temple in Deanside, one of the largest Hindu temples in Australia.

He said the station would make life easier for the thousands who travel out to attend festivities at the temple.

“In terms of beneficiaries, it’s not just residents but visitors too,” he said.

“In the festive season there might be 10,000 peoplevisiting…buttheydrivebecauseit’sthe only option they have.”

Mt Atkinson resident Farhan Khan is a strong supporter of the petition. He travels to the city three days a week to work, a commute

Winter Wonderland

many others in the area are forced to make.

Mr Khan said young professionals were “struggling” to pay for petrol so frequently.

“Using your car every day … is really expensive and not the way to go on,” he said.

“Most of us need public transport ; but I need to drive for 20 minutes to get a train or bus.”

As reported by the Star Weekly, car parks at nearby stations in Caroline Springs and Rockbank are at capacity as early as 7am.

Petition: parliament.vic.gov.au/get-involved/ petitions/the-proposed-mt-atkinson-trainstation/

■ WoMEDA report: Page 3

Petition leader Manish Baisoya and his daughter Vaanya, 3. (Damjan Janevski:418325)

STAY INFORMED

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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

Mayor’s message Cr Kathy Majdlik

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

Melton jobs a necessity: Report

By Eddie Russell

Melton residents are being impacted by having to travel significant distances to work everyday, a new report has revealed.

The West of Melbourne Economic Development Alliance (WoMEDA) released itshalfyearlyeconomicupdateonWednesday, July 10, which showed employment in Melbourne’s west had increased by 100,000 jobs in just six years.

However, almost half the employed face a regular commute beyond the west, with 32 per

cent travelling to the Melbourne CBD.

WoMEDA chair Professor Peter Dawkins said this high rate of commuting was having negative effects on people.

“While increased rates of working from home have eased some of the pain, it still impacts labour market participation and productivity,” he said. “We argue the need to commute should be reduced through policies aimed at growing jobs inside the region”.

Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said more jobs in Melton would mean less traffic and better work life balance for locals.

“We know that more than 70 per cent of our workforce leave the municipality every day for work, most doing so in cars, which adds to congestion,” she said.

Cr Majdlik said improving accessibility to theMeltonmunicipalitywouldresultinbetter job opportunities for residents.

“Fast-tracking investment in major roads and public transport will facilitate local jobs growth,” she said.

But complacency would push the already busy roads to breaking point and worsen employability considerably, Cr Majdlik

Bacchus Marsh pays it forward

Judy D’Attoma started local charity Bacchus Up to Pay it Forward in 2018.

Since then, she has raised more than $30,000 worth of meals for people struggling in and around Bacchus Marsh.

But she doesn’t do it alone.

“This is an absolute team effort … everyone’s involved in one way or another: the businesses, the cafes, the bakeries, and the community members,” Ms D’Attoma said.

“It’s a win-win for everybody. The money stays in town and the locals are helping other locals.”

Residents can put money into one of 40

collection boxes, where the money is pooled and turned into vouchers valued at $10 for a meal from eight participating businesses in the area.

The vouchers can also be used for hygiene products and pet food.

Ms D’Attoma said there are a variety of reasons that have led to the need for this support.

“The majority of those that contact me are ones that are leaving a family violence situation,” she said.

“Covid has caused a lot of the issues and a lot of people lost their jobs [because of that].

Push to fix station parking

Melton council wants to make parking at train stations in the municipality easier for commuters.

In its council meeting on June 24, a notice of motion that identified a need for better access to car parking at Cobblebank, Rockbank, and Caroling Springs stations was passed.

Thecouncilwillwritetothestategovernment and VicTrack to inform it of community concerns and request an urgent investigation into the matter as well with notifying VicTrack Councillor Bob Turner, who put forward the motion, said the inability to park their car at the stations was forcing people to look elsewhere for spots.

“Car parks at Cobblebank, Rockbank and Caroline Springs train stations are at capacity very early every morning, leaving commuters to seek other parking opportunities away from

the train stations,” he said.

Cr Turner said as a result of this, parking availabilityforotheramenitiesintherespective surrounding areas is also reduced.

The motion outlined the possibility of exploring an increase of car parking supply at the stations.

However, it also suggested the implementationofnewbusroutesasapotential solution to ease pressure on spaces and provide alternative options for commuters.

These services would connect growth areas like Thornhill Park, Rockbank, Mt Atkinson, Deanside, Aintree, and Eynesbury to the train stations in Cobblebank, Rockbank and Caroline Springs.

Councillor Justine Farrugia seconded the motion and said it was a much-needed issue.

Thegovernmentwascontactedforcomment.

said.

“A do-nothing approach will see daily commutes increase from 50,000 to 110,000 by 2051 and a jobs gap of nearly 110,000.”

“That is why local jobs, road investment and improved access to public transport is our major advocacy priority.”

A state government spokesperson said the government would continue to focus on “delivering rail improvements right across Melbourne’s west”, including the $650 million Meltonlineupgradethatwillincreasecapacity by up to 50 per cent.

Grant boost for reserve

Moorabool council has received $100,000 from the state government to upgrade McLean Reserve.

The contribution will go towards building a new powered sheltered space and upgrade informative and historical signage as well as playground equipment.

New playground equipment will include a multi-age tower unit, basket swing, and rockers.

The money is a major boost to the overall renewal project at McLean Reserve, which will cost $640,000 and is expected to be delivered before June 30, 2025.

Moorabool mayor Ally Munari said theobjectiveoftheimprovementproject was multi-purpose in design.

“The project aims to enhance the reserve’s functionality, improve its aesthetic appeal, and celebrate its historical significance for the community,” she said.

“The objective … is to transform the existing space into a … space that meets the needs of the Ballan community.”

Eureka MP Miechaela Settle said the money would contribute to making a more vibrant and accessible meeting place for locals.

Cost of living has also been a major factor.”

“Somepeoplejustcan’tcopewitheverything that’s going on in the world right now.”

Bacchus Up to Pay it Forward also helps operate a community pantry in Darley and planted 30 fruit trees at primary schools to help children who are food insecure.

Ms D’Attoma said the reaction from those being helped was often quite emotional.

“A lot of them cry, so I’ll go and hug them and then I cry with them,” she said.

“They believe that no one notices them.”

Eddie Russell

“A strong community comes from strong investment in our people. McLean Reserve is where families and friends come together, have some fun, and get involved - we’re making it easier for them to do that through the council support package,” she said.

The $25 million council support packagefundsprojectsthataredesigned to increase tourism and improve local infrastructure.

Eddie Russell

Bacchus Up to Pay it Forward founder Judy D’Attoma with collection box at the Royal Hotel (Ljubica Vrankovic) 417900_01

Help to tackle homelessness

By Eddie Russell

Melton will be among three other areas in Melbourne’s north and west to tackle homelessness through a new initiative.

On Thursday, July 11, the state government outlined its Homes First program, which is designed to support hundreds of homeless Victorians to get their own homes.

As part of the program, the government will invest $48 million to help 500 households access long-term housing and support over the next three years.

The program will aim to support people to find a safe and secure home first and then access services to help sustain the tenancy, the government said.

Charity Melbourne City Mission has been selected to deliver the program in Melton.

Melton,aswellasBrimbankandHume,was identified as needing more support services for people experiencing homelessness or at risk of sleeping rough.

Housing Minister Harriet Shing said the program would encapsulate a variety of measurestogetpeoplesecureaccommodation

for the long term.

“Homes First will provide practical, on-the-ground support to hundreds of Victorians right across the state,” she said.

“This is an opportunity to break the cycle of homelessness – because we know that having secure, stable housing with wraparound supports leads to better outcomes across the board.”

Ms Shing noted that homelessness was a multifaceted issue and there was a lot to consider when helping those impacted by it.

Gardens recognition a step closer

The Melton Botanic Gardens are one step closer to getting international accreditation.

The gardens have already been awarded international accreditation for their dryland eucalyptus arboretum by international conservation peak body, ArbNet. The garden is managed by volunteer organisation Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden.

President John Bentley said this was “part of the process” in the friends’ strategic plan to get the 27-hectare site recognition on a global scale.

Locals and tourists alike enjoy the “premier

destination”, Mr Bentley said.

“We are attracting people from all over the state and overseas travellers have been recommended to come here,” he said.

“A couple of years ago one of the visitors on the guided tour said the botanic gardens had put Melton on the map.”

Mr Bentley said the gardens are an important gathering space for families as well.

“Lots of people exercise and take their kids here, especially around the lake. It is a place to immerse yourself in nature,” he said.

Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden has 100 active volunteers, as well as more than

400 financial members, who provide financial support by paying a membership fee.

The eucalyptus arboretum is looked after by the ‘gumnuts group’ that has 10 members to tend to the trees.

Mr Bentley said everyone involved was humbled.

“We just all plod along and work away but … the recognition is exciting.”

The Arbnet Arboretum Accreditation Program is designed to help those interested in flora to meet professional standards and advance the conservation of trees.

Eddie Russell

“Finding people a place to call home is one part of breaking the cycle of homelessness, the other is making sure they have the support they need to thrive,” she said.

Those eligible for help will receive responsive and flexible assistance, including counselling for mental health, drug and alcohol, and financial issues as well as aid for those experiencing family violence under the program.

At least 10 per cent of Homes First funding will be targeted towards Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.

Water bills to increase slightly

A small increase in water bills is on its way as The Essential Services Commission has released its final decision on Greater Western Water’s (GWW) price submission, which is now in effect.

Typical annual water and sewerage bills for residential owner-occupier customers will increase by a small amount, but below the rate of inflation.

For 2024-25, average annual bills will rise $31 a year in the central region and $35 in the western region, which includes Moorabool and the majority of Melton.

Ongoing cost of living pressures drove a strong commitment to keep bills stable.

GWWmanagingdirectorMareeLang said the organisation was committed to getting the best for the west, ensuring sustainable and resilient water services for all customers.

“We are investing $1.69 billion in infrastructureandtechnologytoservice booming populations and rapid growth in Melbourne’s central and western regions,” she said.

“Treatment plant upgrades will improve waterway health in the WerribeeandMaribyrnongcatchments, supportingourcommitmenttohealand care for Country.

“We are also pleased to see the ESC support our stormwater harvesting fund, which provides alternative water for public open green spaces.

Our community was strongly in favour of this work, which saves precious drinking water and improves liveability.

“As the first price review since GWW was formed in 2021, this plan sets solid foundations for growth, and makes the long-term investments needed for the growing west to thrive.”

Land sale paves the way for Aintree indoor sports centre

Sporting enthusiasts in Melbourne’s west get excited! A new sports centre is coming to your neighbourhood.

Residents in Aintree, in one of the state’s fastest-growing communities, will no longer have to travel to nearby suburbs like Melton and Caroline Springs to participate in sporting activities after Woodlea sold a block of land to Melton council which will be home to the future Aintree indoor sports facility. The future complex will include a variety of indoor sports, fitness and community amenities that will benefit people of all ages

and abilities.

Atimelineonwhenresidentscanexpectthe new feature is yet to be announced. Woodlea agreed to sell the land early, enabling significant cost savings for the council,whichwillbereinvestedinthefacility and other community projects.

Set to be located near the corner of Aintree Boulevard and Warhawke Road, and next to the Dharra Specialist School and Yarrabing Secondary College, the sports venue will be close to a hub of entertainment with the local Coles and shops nearby.

Woodlea project director Matthew Dean said the team is excited to partner with the council on this significant community achievement.

“Thisfutureindoorsportsfacilityisanother step towards Woodlea’s goal of becoming Australia’s healthiest community,” Mr Dean said.

He said it’ll compliment other amenities in the area such as soccer fields, a skate park, dog park, and playground equipment.

“We’re excited to see this space come to life over the next few years.”

Mayor Kathy Majdlik said the council sought the right location for an indoor sports facility in Aintree.

“As one of the fastest growing communities in Australia, Melton City Council is committed to providing the services and facilities our residents need to thrive. This is an important step forward in our planning for the future sports facility as we focus on our vision for a healthier, more active and connected community,” Cr Majdlik said.

Matthew Younan

President John Bentley with members of the ‘Gumnuts’ team. (Damjan Janevski) 417860_04

‘Keeping busy’ helps Joan to reach 100

Hillside local Joan Barker celebrated her 100th birthday last week, enjoying a cake to cap the major milestone.

Born in England on July 8, 1924, Joan spent the duration of World War II in London while her husband was a prisoner of war in Germany for four years.

After the birth of their first child, difficult financial conditions helped spur the move to Australia, Joan said.

“We couldn’t find anywhere to live; every house was full up and we were already living in a house with three other families,” she said.

After reading about the ‘10 pound pom’ program in the newspaper, the Barkers ended up in the Melbourne suburb of Brooklyn.

Joan said they settled in quickly.

“We managed to find a house that we could buy – it was quite easy in those days to get a house but it took us 14 years to pay off.”

The death of her husband 25 years ago led her to Hillside, where she still lives independently.

“My husband died 25 years ago and I was on my own so my daughter, who lives here, said I had better sell the house and come live near her.”

Joan ’s longevity should come as no surprise. It’s in her genes – her mother lived to 91 and an aunt made it to 105.

Joan said “sitting around and doing nothing” was how not to live a long and fulfilled life.

“I know a lot of people who do that and I tell them to get up and do something,” she said.

“Washing, cooking, gardening, cleaning – I do everything I can. You’ve got to keep busy.”

Eddie Russell

Joan Barker celebrated her 100th birthday in style. (Supplied)

Briefs

Operation Calvacade

Police have launched the second part of Operation Cavalcade, which will operate in Melton. Residents can expect to see the public order response team, mounted branch, and transit police in the area. Part one, which ran during May, led to 70 arrests.

Fatal crash in Truganina

A driver has died after crashing into a tree on the morning of Wednesday, July 10. The incident is believed to have occurred about midnight on Boundary Road. Police are investigating the fatal crash and the driver is yet to be formally identified.

Plea to take care on roads

Police have issued a road safety warning to all motorists following a horror period on the state’s roads. Eight lives have been lost since Monday, July 8, bringing the total lives lost to 154, compared to 152 at the same time last year. Police are urging everyone to take extra care, including slowing down to maintain a safe braking distance, especially during periods of wet weather and poor visibility.

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Fears ambulances will ‘pile up’

By Eddie Russell

Melton council will seek to double the amount of lanes on Ferris Road in an attempt to ease future congestion.

Council will write to the state government to seek the reclassification, declaration and duplication of the road as a matter of urgency. Reclassifying and declaring the section of Ferris Road between Bridge Road and the Western Highway would mean it would become an arterial road and therefore the responsibility of the state government.

With the opening of Melton Hospital on Ferris Road in 2029, as well as already existing traffic, council forecasts an increased level of congestion will unfold unless more lanes are added to the single carriageway.

Councillor Sophie Ramsay said the investment was critical to ensuring that the road would not become a headache for drivers down the track.

“It is vital that these projects are future-proofed,” she said.

“I want to reduce redundant works and avoid more costly additions later by doing it

properly the first time.”

Cr Ramsay said there had to be more thought put into big projects and not just with a quick fix in mind.

“The thing that I don’t get is… we seem to put the work in – and that’s not us [current council] – then we come back a couple years later and do it again,” she said.

“Our roads are at capacity at the moment … the duplication is a priority for each and every one of us.”

She noted the potential ramifications for paramedics as well as commuters if the road

Landcare looks after Mother Nature

The Moorabool Catchment restoration program is underway after receiving more than$350,000infundingfromBarwonWater.

The initiative, which is spearheaded by the Moorabool Catchment Landcare Group, aims to enhance water quality and riverside vegetation along the waterways of the region.

Moorabool Catchment Landcare Group co-ordinator Jackson Cass said the scale of the project was the most extensive he had worked on since joining the organisation in 2020.

“One unique thing about this particular project is we’ve secured funding to work on the tributaries that run into the river, whereas

previously we’ve only been able to work on the river itself,” he said.

“It’sgoingtoallowustodeliverrevegetation in the Moorabool catchment … It will have reallypositiveeffectsontheriparianhabitats.”

Riparian habitats are areas of land that occur along the edges of bodies of water, like riverbanks and floodplains.

Barwon Water is not just a silent partner in this endeavour, Mr Cass said.

“We will be working quite closely with them over the next four years – we all want the project to be successful,” he said.

Private landholders and community

stakeholders are also involved in the project, giving the Landcare group crucial access to the Moorabool River catchment area.

“Without that collaboration we would not be able to deliver this project,” Mr Cass said.

“We’ve never been able to work with landholders like this.”

The program commenced work on June 30 and will take four years to complete.

Works include extensive revegetation efforts, weed control, stock exclusion fencing, and pest animal management.

Eddie Russell

was not increased in size prior to the hospital’s completion.

“With the proposed hospital about to commence being built you are going to have ambulances piled up trying to get to it.”

The Melton Hospital will service 130,000 patients each year from Caroline Springs, Rockbank, Bacchus Marsh, and Melton and includes a 24-hour emergency department. Construction is expected to commence this year.

The state government was contacted for comment.

Funding for multicultural events

TwoorganisationsinMeltonhavebeen allocated state government grants to help them run multicultural events.

The Fijian Community Association Victoriareceived$6000tohostits2024

Fiji Day Multicultural Celebrations, while Vision Hub Australia received $5930 to put into its Multicultural Eid and Food Festival.

Melton MP Steve McGhie said investing in these local groups was an important element of celebrating diversity in the area.

“This funding ensures our multicultural and multifaith communities stay connected to their culture, traditions and identity – and can share this with all Victorians,” he said.

The grants are designed to support community organisations to host festivals and events from July 1 to December 31.

MulticulturalAffairsMinisterIngrid Stitt said the state government was committed to providing opportunities to a range of organisations.

“Ensuring Victoria’s diverse communities have every opportunity to celebrate their culture is key to strengthening social connection, inviting all Victorians to learn about and embrace different cultures,” she said.

“Thisfundingisallaboutsupporting multicultural communities, and fostering a diverse and inclusive society where everyone is celebrated and feels welcome.”

More than 240 organisations will share $1.8 million from the program and the Regional Multicultural Festivals and Events Fund.

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

Moorabool Catchment Landcare Group president Andrew Wells, co-ordinator Jackson Cass, Barwon Water catchments and waterways team leader Brigid Creasey and planning delivery and environment general manager Seamus Butcher. (Barwon Water)

Caution urged after SES rescues

The Bacchus Marsh State Emergency Service (SES) unit is urging people to be more careful when hiking, after performing two search and rescues in the same weekend.

An incident at Werribee Gorge on July 2 required four SES volunteers to to find an injured woman in the dark

Once found, the patient was lifted out by a VictoriaPolicehelicopterviawinchabout7pm.

Unit controller Mick Schembri said this assistance was not uncommon.

“We work very closely with Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria, successfully conductingaroundhalfadozen‘winchrescues’ a year,” he said.

Mr Schembri said there had been “at least

‘‘ Don’t rely on mobile mapping to be your primary map – the GPS on your phone is great but if you break it you have nothing ’’ - Mick Schembri

four” helicopter rescues this year.

The next day, the unit was called in to find a person who had fallen down a one metre cliff face in Werribee Gorge.

They were walked out safely with the help of

the Bacchus Marsh crew.

The CFA, Victoria Police, and Ambulance Victoria all attended the scene.

Mr Schembri said keeping track of your locationisthebestwaytoassistrescueteamsto find you when lost.

“It’s very helpful if people know the last emergency marker they passed and note terrain features to help us narrow down where they are,” he said.

Preparation was key to avoiding anything bad happening when on hiking, Mr Schembri said.

“Ifyouaregoingout,goearlyinthemorning so you have the full day to complete the walk,” he said.

Changeover begins ‘magical year’

Ronald Moss will once again take the reins of Rotary Caroline Springs after being appointed 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

“Look at the weather, take plenty of water and food, and make sure you have the right clothing.”

Mobile phones are a useful tool when out in the bush but are not trustworthy, Mr Schembri said.

“Don’t rely on mobile mapping to be your primary map – the GPS on your phone is great but if you break it you have nothing. Take a paper based map that is less than two years old,” he said.

Mr Schembri said the SES is anticipating more rescues in the future as the weather warms up heading into spring and summer. “It ebbs and flows – we get a lot [of calls] in September.”

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.

AccordingtoCrimeStatisticsAgency 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 past 12 months to the end of March 2024.

The new campaign is asking young people to share footage on their phones with Crime Stoppers, while staying unknown.

CrimeStopperswillfurtherempower 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.

About66percentofreportstoCrime 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

Grants to help three Melton multicultural groups flourish

Three cultural organisations in Melton have received money to pursue infrastructure projects that will help them better serve their communities.

This includes the Sri Durga Temple in Deanside, which received $400,000 from the state government to build a new car park.

The Hindu temple hosts religious festivities almost every month and is a meeting place for the Indian community in the municipality.

The $1 million project will provide 158 car park spots for visitors attending the temple, which also has a culture and education centre.

Secretary Rishi Prabhakar said the sheer

volume of people who go to the temple means a car park is an absolute necessity.

“The carpark is the only missing link … it allows us to manage the traffic and make the journey easier for attendees,” he said.

Mr Prabhakar said the site was “one of the biggest temples in the southern hemisphere” and that the amenity would boost its legitimacy.

“It looks more presentable with so many people coming in, it looks bad without it,” he said.

Members of the temple were grateful for the contribution, Mr Prabhakar said.

“It is a big support … we are very, very thankful to the government,” he said.

The temple’s biggest occasion in October attracts about 15,000 to 20,000 people to the temple, with smaller events still reaching 10,000 people.

Mr Prabhakar said there was a high level of multiculturalism demonstrated at such celebrations.

“A lot of people want to connect with the community and culture,” he said.

“It’s a Hindu temple but everyone is welcome to come and enjoy it with us.”

Itisexpectedthecarparkwillbe completed by December.

TheEthiopianOrthodoxTewahedoChurch in Melton received more than $275,000 in funding to also build a new car park, as well

as installing heating and cooling systems in the church.

Shree Swaminarayan Agnya Upasna Satsang Mandal received $400,000 for the construction of a multicultural, multipurpose facility.

Melton MP Steve McGhie said the state government would continue to invest in these organisations to ensure they could adequately service

“We want to ensure Melton’s multicultural communities have the support and facilities they need to celebrate and share their culture with all Victorians,” he said.

Eddie Russell

Vijay Susarla, mayor Kathy Majdlik, Cr Steve Abboushi, and Ronald Moss at the presidential changeover. (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.

Melbourne West athletes.

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).

Melbourne North athletes.

The opening ceremony at Casey Stadium. (Pictures: Stewart Chambers:416905)

Easing climate change anxiety

A new website is helping to address young people’s anxiety about climate change. Max Westwood talks to one of the project’s creators, Phoebe Quinn.

The anxiousness young people feel about climate change prompted University of Melbourne research fellow and PhD candidate Phoebe Quinn, who has a background in creating resources for disaster recovery, to team up with University of Melbourne research fellow Katitza Marinkovic Chavez to tackle the issue.

Together they began a project titled, Young Climate Superpowers.

“The idea with this project is really to work with young people to develop together a set of resources that can help them understand their strengths in relation to climate change,” Ms Quinn said.

The project aims to ease the anxiousness young people are feeling about climate change.

“[Young people are having] all sorts of difficult emotions about climate change, including anger, sadness and anxiety. So the idea is that this is to figure out what are some useful ways of still engaging with the topic of climate change, but in a way that has a more positive impact in terms of young people’s wellbeing, but also the sort of the change that they can make in the world if they want to.”

Ms Quinn and the Young Climate Superpowersteambelievedhearingfromyoung people would be the best way to ease their fears.

Todothat,31youngVictoriansagedbetween 12 and 25 were invited to take part in a series of workshops.

“We really saw that there was potential for some more resources that were created both with, and for, young people. We were really kind of curious and excited to see what those resources might look like,” she said.

One of the resources Ms Quinn and her

team made was a website containing all the information collected from workshop participants.

The website provides an inclusive and fun environment for the youth to tackle this behemoth of an issue that is climate change.

The team created a list of seven “climate superpowers” which they believed young people can use to address climate change.

The superpowers are: Social superpowers that help you learn about climate change and what to do about it; human superpowers that are your skills, knowledge, experiences and talents; cultural superpowers that help you understand and know the world, and how you

act within it; political superpowers that help you influence decisions affecting you; financial superpowers, relating to their opportunities to use savings, income, time and effort in a way that helps the environment; built superpowers that help transform our cities, buildings, facilities, services, houses, vehicles, technology, water, and energy infrastructure to make them more sustainable; and natural superpowers the help you connect to nature.

“If a young person stumbled across this website and sees that it was created by a young personjustlikethem,it’sademonstrationofone of the ways that they could make a difference and contribute and use their various skills,” Ms

Quinn said. “Behind the climate superpowers idea is that everyone has those superpowers, they can use them in all sorts of ways.”

Ms Quinn and her team hope they’ve been able to create a tool to help teachers inform their students about climate change.

“Teachers [are] saying that they really loved thewebsiteandtheywerereallykeentoactually useitintheirteachingandintheirconversation with their students,” she said.

Quinn said one thing she has learnt through the project is how powerful young people are when they are working together towards a common goal.

“It’s been very compelling.”

Emma, holding up artwork for the project, and April and Scarlett looking at the artwork. (Pictures: 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.

Laurenwenttobedandwoketocontractions 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)

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 thechildbirth,Leannesufferedafourth-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

Leanne Murphy suffered trauma during the birth of her second child. (Damjan Janevski:413521)

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

MY PLACE

Caroline Springs resident Iris Du is an author, leadership strategist, human behaviour, and self-discovery and leadership coach. She spoke to Eddie Russell about her connection to the local community.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?

I’m a proud resident of Melton, a business owner, and a passionate community advocate. My journey to Australia began at 15 when I arrivedfromHongKongalone,withoutfamily, friends, or guidance. My parents’ sacrifices and their vision for a better future for me inspired this move. As an only child, they wanted to provide me with opportunities they never had — a safe environment to grow and thrive, building a brighter future for my own family.

Despite having to navigate a new country alone as a high school dropout, I was determined to embrace the opportunity my parents had given me. Their sacrifices paved the way for me to be here, and I am forever grateful.

What is your connection to Melton?

I live in Caroline Springs. The reason I moved here a few years ago was to start a family in a community that is very family-oriented and affordable. As a new mum, my partner Thai, our eight-month-old son Tyrus, and I have built our lives here. The sense of togetherness, the calming lakes, the beautiful parks, and the rapid growth of young families have made Melton an ideal place for us. Being involved in local community groups has helped me connect with local residents from all different walksoflife,andIhavegrowntoappreciatethe community even more.

What do you like about where you live?

I love how family-oriented the whole suburb is. Everything I need is within a short distance, which is incredibly convenient. I love that I can access different council programs easily. As a new mum, I can easily access maternal and child health services. The library has become a favourite spot for me and my bub; we visit weekly, and it’s a great place to connect with other mums. Being a first-time mum with limited family support can be quite challenging, so these community resources are invaluable.

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

I would love to have a safer community. It’s not just about having more police presence, but connectingtheneighbourhoodwhereeveryone looks out for each other and empowering all of us to know we can all take part in it in various ways.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

Definitely Lake Caroline. I moved very close to the lake because of its beauty. It’s a hidden gem that surprises all our friends and family members when they visit. I even did my engagement, newborn, and birthday photoshoots there — that’s how much I love it. I’ve also created a Mums and Bubs Lake Caroline walking group, where I get to walk around the lake with other mums and bubs weekly. As my little one grows, I’m looking forward to spending more time at the playground, creating even more meaningful friendships for him and myself.

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

In 2022, I was selected to star in the ground-breaking TV show Adventure All-Stars, the world’s only socially conscious travel series that combines adventure and philanthropy to inspire others to make a difference, reaching nearly 200 million viewers across 195 countries. My commitment to philanthropy was highlighted through this experience, as I was recognised for raising over $10,000 in support of Project Karma, an Australian charity that fights child sexual abuse, exploitation, and online child sexual crime in Australia and Southeast Asia. The experience was transformative. We travelled to secret locations in Gippsland to uncover the best and most exciting experiences. Despite my fear of swimming, heights, and not knowing howtorideabike,Iparticipatedfullyandgrew immensely from it. It was an unforgettable journey.

Djirra in the West celebrates NAIDOC Week

Indigenous organisation Djirra celebrated NAIDOC Week with a very special family day at their Djirra in the West headquarters in Kurunjang.

Poor weather did not deter locals from turning out in force, with the sold out event bringing in more than 400 people from 10am – 2.30pm.

Djirra chief executive Antoinette Braybrook said seeing the community come together for the occasion, in her hometown, was rewarding.

“My family and I grew up in Melton – it is in my blood – so I’m particularly proud that Djirra is now such an established part of this community,” she said. “Women, kids, friends, supportersandlocalbusinessesall…laughed, danced, connected, and celebrated culture and community together.”

Activitiesincludedmayapaweaving,T-shirt making, face painting, and a reptile display.

The yidaki workshop and Djirri Djirri dancers were also highlights.

Ms Braybook said the theme of this NAIDOC, Keep the Fire Burning: Blak, Loud and Proud, was particularly relevant to the work Djirra does.

“We know we are making a real, positive difference to women’s safety in the western region,” she said.

“In just one year, demand for our specialist legal and non-legal services at Djirra in the West has soared an extraordinary 14 times.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney joined Hawke MP Sam Rae in attending the occasion.

In Moorabool, there was a smoking ceremony, live art session, and story telling session.

Mayor Ally Munari said adopting a statement of commitment to Indigenous

peoplewasoneofmanystepstakentoimprove the current situation.

“Council outlined its commitment to actions… to understand and be aware of closing the gap in disparities between

and more.”

Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people in health, employment, education, social and emotional wellbeing,

Eddie Russell

Women, children, Djirra staff, community members, and local business owners came together on the day. (T J Garvie Photography)

(Damjan Janevski 418042

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. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 417037)

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.

Jordan Lauton works on his skills.

Head coach John Aloisi greets a young fan.

Goalkeeper Matthew Sutton signs a jersey.

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

Melton South Community Centre

Melton South Community Centre offers a range of First Aid courses, with enrolments open for the next round scheduled for Saturday, July 27. Save money in the long-term and get the nourishment you and your family need with classic, delicious soups and breads in Melton South Community Centre’s new four week course (10am – noon, July 29 to August 19). Escape the cold and join a small lively group making warm, nutritious meals that will become family favourites in no time. $65/$60 concession.

■ 9747 8576

Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club

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

Community band

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

■ Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582

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

■ Dianne, 9743 7446

Fishing club

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

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

Lights of Wisdom

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

■ mgilsant9@gmail.com

Seniors’ lunch

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

■ Pamela, pcostello46@hotmail.com

Bacchus Marsh CWA

The group does crafting, baking, day trips, local dining, market stalls, fundraising, and hosts guest speakers as well as themed morning and afternoon teas. They are open Monday to Wednesday from 9am - 12pm 9am-noon and are based at the Darley Community & Civic Hub. Branch meetings are held every 2nd Thursday of the month and Craft day is every 4th Thursday of the month at the Hub.

■ bacchus.cwa@gmail.com

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

Cancer Support Group

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

■ Grenville, 0412 741 865

Chatty Cafe Melton

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

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

Women’s Support Group

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

■ https://ow.ly/QVwJ50Q5g42

Caroline Springs Rotary

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

■ rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

The Gap on Graham

The Gap provides a place for Melton youth to hang out, socialise, play games and learn

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

■ Val, 0414 769 605

Melton Men’s Group

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

Take weight off naturally

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

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

Melton Bridge Club

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

■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Melton Friendship Group

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

■ 0406 493 734

Parkinson’s support group

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

■ Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club

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

■ Ann, 0425 705 150

Melton South Knit & Natter

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

■ 9747 8576

Zonta club meets

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

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

U3A Melton

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

■ 0419 563 016

Melton Combined Probus Club

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

■ 9746 0271

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 youngersisterthroughthebelovedfantasyrole 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.”

Tickets: trybooking.com/events/ landing/1231636

‘Unique’ take on Shakespeare classic

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.”

Details: events.humanitix.com/sevenfoldtheatre-company-inc-presents-a-midsummernight-s-dream.

Exhibition brings a taste of Italy to St Albans

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, After Dinner , 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: 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.

The Sevenfold Theatre Company performers Amy Watts, Lore Burns, Lucy May Knight and Jackson Cross. (Damjam Janevski:416680)

John Barcham in his home studio with a piece that will be on display in the gallery. (Supplied)

Gerald Lynch

Cast member David Prince in his costume for character Orcus. (Supplied)

6

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

3

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

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 tallerand120mmlongerbetweenthefrontand 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 tolurchoffthemark.Onthemove,thebigfella 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. (Ljubica Vrankovic:418821)

Brightness behind the clouds for Hillside and West Coburg’s game.

Melton’s Kimberly Phillips. (Ljubica Vrankovic:418824)

Hillside’s Josh Covelli. (Ljubica Vrankovic:418823)

Yarraville Seddon pushed Caroline Springs. (Ljubica Vrankovic:418793)

Sunbury Lions’ Sarah Croft and Melton’s Emma Vitalone. Melton goalkeeper Taylar Storier.

Melton and Werribee teams. (Ljubica Vrankovic:418820)

Melton’s Ryan Carter (left) and Sunbury Lions’ Ben Eales.

Caroline Springs came out on top against Yarraville Seddon. 418793_04

Jamie Bolger steps up to coach the Eagles

Jamie Bolger is excited to step up and coach Eynesbury in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association.

The Eagles announced that Bolger would step up into the role and had already started planning for the season ahead.

Bolger said the timing was right for him to take on the challenge.

“I’m very excited and I’m looking forward to the challenge,” he said. “Three years ago I was a previous role doing coach but it was interrupted with work commitments.

“I have a bit more time at work now which allows it to work. I put my hat back in the ring and want to continue the work that has been done beforehand.”

Bolger has had coaching roles at Melton Centrals, St Anthony’s and Melton before coming across to the Eagles.

He’s hoping to bring that experience to this role.

“I’ve had a lot of experience but I’ve had to jump in and out of coaching with family

commitments and work,” Bolger said.

“I’m really excited about where the club is and the people around it. My family is heavily involved.

“It’s a family oriented club and there’s a general good feel about the club.”

Bolger said one of his big focuses was to continue to bring young players into the senior sides.

The Eagles have blooded a number of youngsters in recent time.

“We want to get juniors into seniors and from a seniors point of view look to develop them by surrounding them with good experienced players.

“Some have made the chance to go further and some have done really well in the last five to six years.

“Hopefully they’ll return at some point and play in the firsts.

The Eagles will have a new president as well with Brandon Shearson stepping up to the role.

Bolger said Tristian Francis, who was previously president and coach before that,

had done a brilliant job getting the club to the position its in.

He said Francis would still play a key role on field in the first XI and nothing changes around the club.

Bolger said he wants to build on last season where the club’s top side finished sixth in the Johnstone Shield.

“We want to blood as many kids as possible and look to play finals cricket this year,” he said.

“We knocked off a couple of the top sides and were in a lot of games for long periods of the day.

“Myself and the older guys need to find a bit more consistency each week and over the season

“Our eyes are on finals that is our aim, it’s a pass mark.”

Bolger is also hopeful of attracting some more local talent to the club and possibly look at furling an extra side next year.

Warriors look to future

By Tara Murray

The Western Warriors proved no match for the City West Falcons but they got a glimpse at the future in the Victorian Netball League championship.

The top of the ladder Falcons went in as red hot favourites in the western derby at the Altona Sports Complex on Wednesday night.

Theyjumpedoutoftheblocksandwereable to come away with a strong 82-56 win.

Coach Kim Bailey said they always knew they were up against it. She said even though they had been together for nearly the whole season they were still finding those connections.

“It’s always a tough game as they are a quality side,” Bailey said. “You can tell they have been together for a number of years.

“We gave the opportunity to give some of the girls a chance to get on court.

“Eliza [Gollant] had a great game in goal defence and was well supported by Elly Randall.

“Akira McCormack played a half and had a great game as well. We need to give these girls opportunities and get court time under their belts to get ready for the future.”

The Warriors named Julia Woolley their best on court for her performance in goal attack, especially in the second half.

Bailey said she combined well with McCormack.

Vanessa Augustini and Ruby Shannon had good games in the midcourt and Georgia Berry worked really hard against Falcons shooter Jane Cook.

Meanwhile, the Warriors under-23 side produced one of its best performances of the season to knock off the Falcons, 54-51.

Bailey said they were thrilled with the performance of the girls.

“It was really good,” she said. “We led at quarter time after a really strong first quarter.

“We had a little bit of a dip in the second and we continued to hold on and get the win.

“The win was so pleasing for these girls who have worked so hard. They had a really good training session on Monday night.”

The Falcons came hard in the second half, but the Warriors were able to hold their composure which they’ve struggled with at times,

Bailey said it was nice to get a win like at the back end of the season and it’s reward for the hard work they’ve put in.

The Warriors finish off their season on Wednesday night against the Wilson Storage Southern Saints.

Bailey said they were hoping to finish the season on a high.

The championship side sits in 10th spot with six wins and the under-23s in 10th with five wins.

“We had a competitive game against them last time,” she said.

“We want to finish the way we started with

Sports shorts

Paralympics

Melton’s Chris Addis is headed to the Paralympic Games. Addis has been named in his first Paralympic team as part of Australia’s table tennis team. The 12-player team is Australia’s largest since 1968 and the second largest to represent the nation in the Paralympic Games foundation sport.

Big V Melton fell agonisingly short of knocking off ladder leaders Craigieburn Eagles in the Big V men’s division 2 competition. After giving up an 11-point lead at quarter time, the Thoroughbreds worked hard to get back into the game. They came home strong, winning the final quarter, 30-22, but it wasn’t enough, losing 106-102. Milan Savic top scored with 33 points. The Thoroughbreds sit in fourth spot.

RDFL

Diggers Rest came away with the points against Lancefield in a big day for the club in the Riddell District Football League. Reserves coach Jeff Heritage celebrated his 300th game as a player with a best on ground performance in the seniors’ win, 15.8 (98)-3.4 (22). Shaun Campbell and Brodie Meyers kicked five goals each in the win. Meanwhile, Melton Centrals had a 16.15 (111)-10.6 (66) loss to Kyneton. The Burras sit second on the ladder, while Centrals sit second bottom.

EDFL

Hillside got a reality check in the Essendon District Football League division 1 competition. The Sharks faced West Coburg in a top of the table clash. with West Coburg winning, 15.10 (100)-9.13 (67). Josh Covelli kicked four goals with Lucas Failli named their best. The Sharks remain in second spot but are a game behind West Coburg. In division 2, Burnside Heights had a good win against the Sunbury Kangaroos. In the women’s competitions, Burnside Heights and Hillside both had wins.

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a win.

“To be honest we’re a bit disappointed with the ladder position. We had some really close games many times and couldn’t get across the line when we needed to. “There’s still some positives out of our first season.”

Sophie Hanrahan and Akira McCormack (Robbab Photography)

Tara Murray

Jamie Bolger (Supplied)

Ladies In Red ready for Queensland Constellations

Champion race mare Ladies In Red primed herself for a share of the Queensland Constellations spoils with a narrow win in the Koala King Free For All at Melton on Saturday night.

Punters who partook of the $1.25 on offer about the mare were on good terms with themselves when she strolled to the front with 1200 metres to travel of the 1720 metre sprint trip.

However, it was a different story a lap later when driver David Moran was vigorously guiding the six-year-old to victory managing to hold off her fast finishing stablemate Mach Dan by half a head in a mile rate of 1:52.5.

The Emma Stewart trained mare will fly to Brisbane on Tuesday to contest nest Saturday night’s $150,000 The Golden Girl over 1660 metres.

Moran acknowledged the race will provide a stern test for the country’s premier race mare.

“It’sweirdbutinsomewaysthemiledoesn’t suit her as much as the longer distance races where she can chance gear and grind them into the ground and they’re not good enough to go with her,” Moran said.

“Having said that, one of her main dangers Aardies Express only just fell in at Albion

Park on Saturday night, so if we can turn it into a staying test then she is probably the one to beat, “he said.

Moran was quick to point out the quality of the opposition that finished behind her at Melton.

“Mach Dan is a proven Group 1 horse who had the sit on her and the third horse (Rakero Rebel) has been flying,” he said.

Moran hinted that Ladies In Red’s long term future on the race track could hinge on her performance at Albion Park in The Golden Girl.

“She may have come back to them slightly but it’s tough to expect her to keep beating the boys, so what happens in Brisbane back against her own sex will probably determine her future,” he said.

The win launched a successful quartet for the powerful Stewart stable.

Talented three-year-old Bay Of Biscay

Bloods stun the Lions

By Tara Murray

Melton sent a message to the rest of the Ballarat Football League competition, doing a demolition job on the Sunbury Lions on Saturday.

Playing each other for the second time in three rounds, most people would have expected a close match up like last time.

Instead, supporters watched on as the Bloods came away with a 17.14 (116)-5.9 (39) win.

Bloods coach Troy Scoble said it wasn’t the type of match they were expecting.

“You never do [expect] playing one of the top teams,” he said of the margin. “Sometimes you get the momentum and are able to cash in.

“We seemed to be able to do that yesterday [Saturday]. We thought we would be playing a similar game to what we had two weeks ago.”

Scoble said the focus for them leading into the match was getting a good start, having not had a good record coming back after breaks.

On the scoreboard the Bloods did and they were able to build on that momentum across the next three quarters.

The Lions didn’t kick a goal until the third quarter.

Scoble said they were able to get the momentum early and that was the key.

“We played in our front half for most of the time,”hesaid.“Wecompetedwellandgetting clearances and getting the ball forward.

“We took our chances when we had them. Sunbury had their chances, they had a lot in the first half.”

Scoble said they tightened up their defence after quarter time, feeling they were a little bit off in the first quarter.

“They got the majority of their goals from free kicks,” he said. “I was happy with our defensive aspect of the game.”

Braedan Kight kicked five goals while his younger brother Jordan Kight, chipped in with four.

Scoble said both really cashed in and were among the best.

He said Jack Walker and Jaycob Hickey were also good as were the defenders.

The win keeps the Bloods on top of the table and all but secures them a finals spot with six rounds to go.

Scoble said that was the first box they wanted to tick this season.

“As the season goes on its how you go against the best sides in the competition that will decide where you finish,” he said.

“We play three of the top five sides in the back half. Sunbury was the first one. You at least want to play well as it’s very important.”

The Bloods this Saturday face North Ballarat.

returned to the winning list with a stunning win in the Nevele R Stud 3YO Pace.

Mark Pitt gave the son of Somebeachsomewhere the run of the race in the one out one back trail before pulling out on straightening and Bay Of Biscay powered down the home straight to score running away by 10 metres from stablemates Kingman and the favoruite Some American in a mile rate of 1:51.4.

Bay Of Biscay is likely to head north to contest the Group 1 $150,000 Queensland Derby at Albion Park in a fortnight.

Miki To Success continued to build on his picket fence form line completing four consecutive wins when he outsprinted his rivals along the sprint lane in the Hygain Metro Maiden while Gawn made it back-to-back wins when he led all the way in the Beraldo Coffee Pace.

Lions squad taking shape

Melton’s squad for the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association is starting to come together.

Having announced Damian Costigan as coach, the Lions have announced some key signings and re-signings. Internationals Jack Dickson and Will Chesterman are coming out to play in Australia this summer.

“Jack the former Irish international representative is a top order bat who is known for his versatility and ability to hit 360 degrees,” the club said on social media.

“Currently playing List A cricket for Munster Reds in Ireland, Jack will add class and power to the top of our list for the upcoming season.

“Will is a classy top order bat currently starringforYeovilCricketClubaveraging well over 40 his last three seasons.

‘Chesty’ will add plenty of talent and experience to the squad and is set for a big impact this year.”

Left arm quick Harsh Parmar has also joined the club.

Parmar has first XI playing experience with Port Melbourne and has spent the past two seasons with Sunshine Heights taking 40-plus wickets at an average of under 20.

Jason Hibbert also returns to the club havingspentlastseasonwithGellibrand.

He was part of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association division 4 premiership and was named in the team of the year after making more than 400 runs for the season.

The four will join a number of returning players.

SkipperBenMacRaeisbackalongwith opening partner Brenton Cook, who will play for the Lions for a second season.

Stalwart Ben Jones is also back to lead the bowling attack

Ben MacRae. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

John Dunne

Ladies In Red. (Stuart McCormick)

Scoble said they were looking forward to the opportunity to head up to Ballarat and play against a different type of side. North Ballarat comes into the match on the back of a loss to Darley. The Devils trailed early before managing

to hold on to win, 9.13 (67)-8.7 (55). Matthew Brett and Brett Bewley were named the Devils best. Elsewhere, Bacchus Marsh suffered a 12.12 (84)-7.13 (55) loss to Lake Wendouree. Melton South had the bye.

Jordan Kight. (Ljubica Vrankovic:418821)

Western Jets eye strong finish to their season

TheWesternJetsarehopingtofinishtheCoates 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 Field they’ve been part of the Vic Metro squad, while Gossow is part of the coaching team.

Gossow said she’d been thrilled with their development this season.

“Sierrahashadareallystrongyearforusand 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.”

Gossow highlighted Alex McBride-Loane as 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 as a group, with both teams playing the Devils.

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.”

Rams score second win

By Tara Murray

It took Western Rams more than 2200 days to get a win on the board but it took only three moreroundstogiveasecondoneintheWestern Football League division 2 competition.

The Rams and Tarneit entered Saturday’s match with a win apiece, both coming against North Sunshine.

The Titans led early as the Rams were wasteful in front of goal. Not much separated the two teams all day.

The Rams were able to kick away late to get a 10.19 (79)-9.6 (60) win.

Rams coach Ashley Pritchard said a match was like that was what football was about

“It was a really good game of football,” he said. “We were evenly matched and we didn’t get away from them until the end.

“They hit the front early in the last quarter and we knuckled down and we were really good.

“I said to the boys that is what winning is about… We worked hard for that.”

Pritchard said their focus heading into the game, like every week, was to be competitive. He said knowing where both sides were on the ladder, they knew that they were in with a chance if they did the hard work.

“They challenged us numerous times,” he said. “We faced those challenges.

“We didn’t kick straight though. Maybe if we kicked straighter we could have put it away a bit earlier.”

DamonLewisandJarrydUnderwoodkicked three goals each.

Pritchard said it was their leaders that really led the way.

“TylerLewiswasoutstandingagain,”hesaid.

“Our captain Ryan Tyson led from the front.

“Matthew Paull in his first senior game was good on the ball as a big bodied ruck.

“Damon Lewis and our vice-captain MatthewVoigt.Ourleadersledfromthefront.”

The Rams remain 12th on the ladder, but are not a game clear of Tarneit and two of North Sunshine.

Pritchard said that confidence was growing in the group.

“AfterNorthSunshinewelookedatwhatwas coming up the next five to six weeks,” he said.

“Wethoughtifwecoulddothehardworkon the track, we could probably win another three or four.

“We ticked one off. We want to be super competitivethisweekandwethinkwecouldbe a chance. We want to win a few more games.”

The Rams this week face Albanvale which is

Daniel Penha departs United to head home

Daniel Penha will depart Western United after one of the great individual seasons in the A-League men’s club’s history,withtheBrazilianoptingtoplay closer to home due to family reasons.

The 25-year-old played the 2023-24 season on loan at Western United from Atletico Mineiro, recording seven goals and three assists in 22 appearances.

Conversations had been ongoing throughout the off-season to extend Penha’s stay, however due to personal reasons he has made the difficult decision to remain closer to Brazil

Penha said the joy he has had in representing the green and black will remain with him forever.

“I would like to say thank you. Thank you to each of you who has always supported me since I arrived at the club,” he said.

pushing for a finals spot.

Meanwhile in 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.

JeromeCaterino,whokickedthreegoals,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 the women’s competition, Caroline Springs continued its good form against Yarraville Seddon.

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 goals for the Lakers, while Jacinta Kondis 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.

“I was very, very happy last season. I’veenjoyedeverysinglemomentwehad together. You showed me unforgettable respect and made me and my wife feel at home in Australia.

“Thank you so much for all of your support. I will never forget you. I hope we can meet again in the future and share more beautiful moments.”

Western United football general manager Mal Impiombato said Penha’s effect on the club would remain in the future and insisted the entire green and black family remains behind him.

“As a player and as a person, Daniel has epitomised everything we stand for at Western United and while we have tried our best to keep him at our club, sometimes there are things bigger than football and we are fully supportive of Daniel’s decision to be closer to his family,” he said.

“His talent on the pitch and his infectious positivity and kindness made him a joy to work with, and the impact he had on everyone at our Club will undoubtedly stick for some time.

“Daniel, Larissa and their family will always be welcome back at Western United and on behalf of everyone in our Green and Black family, I send my very best wishes to them for the future.”

Tara Murray Laura Kane (middle) with Sarah Poustie and Sierra Grieves. (AFL)

Damon Lewis. (Ljubica Vrankovic:413385)