All aboard!
The Sunshine Model Railway Club is on track for a big showing this weekend, as it heads to Braybrook for the annual model train show.
Group organiser Joe Saliba said lots of hard work has gone into this year’s display, with the set looking as good as ever. He said his love of trains got him originally involved, and he finds himself unable to step away.
“I don’t know why I keep coming back, it’s like an addiction,” he laughed.
“The club has been going since September 1996, I joined in January 1997 … I have always liked trains since I was about six.”
The club meets twice a week in Albion, on Tuesday mornings and Thursday nights, and encourages anyone wanting to join to have a chat with members at the show.
The team of more than 25 members buys and builds parts and bring them together to create an impressive model.
To the club it in action, head to the Braybrook Secondary College basketball stadium on Burke Street, from 9.30am to 5pm on Saturday, August 3, and 9.30am to 4pm on Sunday, August 4.
Gerald Lynch
Boy ‘must be dead’: Mum
By Emily Woods, AAP
A child left with catastrophic injuries after a car ploughed into him says he was trying to save his three-year-old brother.
“I was being a big brother to my little brother, I pushed him out of the way so he doesn’t get hurt like me,” Huseyin Pek, 8, told his mother after the crash.
Thanh Ngoc Vo had arrived in Australia five days before the September 2023 crash and was practising driving around the block in his wife’s car when he hit the accelerator instead of the brake.
The 49-year-old unlicensed driver ran over
the young children, who were playing in a puddle behind their grandparents’ home in Braybrook.
Huseyin was seriously injured and has undergone several surgeries but may never walk properly again, while his little brother Burak Pek suffered minor injuries.
The boys’ family said they were relieved “justice is served in our favour” after Vo admitted dangerous driving causing serious injury and was jailed on Wednesday, July 24.
“I’m still angry but I came here for my son and I’ll be here for him on our next court date,” his mother Demet Aydin said outside the County Court.
“I don’t accept that he is sorry for what he did to my son.”
Inside the court, a heartbreaking statement from Ms Aydin was read out where she described hearing the crash and fearing the worst.
“Everything went silent, slow motion … all I could hear was revving and bang, bang, bang,” she said. “I thought Huseyin must have been dead.”
Vo was pulling into the laneway when he accidentallysteppedontheacceleratorinstead of the brakes of the Toyota Prado, he told police.
He pushed on the accelerator even further
and hit the two children and three parked cars.
Vo ran from the scene to his home, near the scene of the crash.
When police arrived shortly after, Vo fell to hiskneesinaprayerpositionandwasarrested.
Huseyin’snumerousinjuriesweredescribed as “catastrophic” by prosecutors and required emergency surgery and almost two months in hospital.
He suffered fractures and deep cuts to his head, including a 20cm injury from his left eyebrow to the middle of his head.
■ Continued: Page 4.
Sunshine Model Railway Club members Neil Marshall, Joe Saliba, Lenn Hunter, Ted Allan. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 420009_09
Mayor’s message
Cr Kathy Majdlik
I’m thrilled to announce that the Mayoral Charity Fund is back for another year.
The Mayoral Charity Fund is for small community projects that help local activities continue to grow and thrive in the City of Melton.
Local, not-for-profit community organisations and groups can apply for up to $2,000 to support the development or implementation of projects that benefit the community.
It is a great example of how Council can support our highly valued community groups in the work they do to keep our city active, connected and make it a great place to live.
I encourage all local, not-for-profit community groups and clubs to apply. For information visit: melton. vic.gov.au/communityfunds
The Plumpton Aquatic and Leisure Centre is Council’s largest capital investment, and it was pleasing to see this project take another step forward with the approval of the final masterplan.
The Centre on Beattys Road in Fraser Rise will meet the leisure and wellbeing needs of the community in one of Australia’s fastest growing Council areas. The masterplan was finalised following extensive consultation with the community and other stakeholders that saw more than 1000 overwhelmingly positive responses.
After consulting the community, we have improved the layout and added of several extra features including a multipurpose/events space and rooftop deck, and a second program pool for learn to swim and aqua aerobics.
This will be a destination where people can spend time with family and friends enjoying a range of activities and feel connected to their local community.
You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at Kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.
Cobblebank Community Services Hub
The building masterplan for the state-of-the-art Cobblebank Community Services Hub has been approved by Council.
The Hub, in the heart of the Cobblebank Metropolitan Activity Centre, will provide more than 8,000 square metres of tenancy space and dedicated carparking in a six-storey, 5-Star Green Rating building and deliver critical services for residents.
It will meet the needs of our growing community by delivering access to a wider range of services that will be both easier to access and closer to home. Construction work is expected to start in early 2025.
Melton Business Excellence finalists named
The finalists in the 2024 City of Melton Business Excellence Awards have been announced. Twenty-seven outstanding businesses from hospitality, trades, professional services, and industry are in the running to win a business excellence award in nine categories.
Fair Go 4 Youth Fund is back
Our Fair Go 4 Youth program created to make extra-curricular activities more affordable so children can grow and reach their full potential is back.
Coburn Ward with Cr Bob Turner
It was great to see the new Melton Hospital take another step forward this month.
This is an important project for the City of Melton and the wider region, so it was good to hear the State Government name its preferred consortium for delivering this landmark piece of infrastructure.
It was also good to hear the State Government’s revised timeline for completing the hospital on Ferris Rd, near Cobblebank Stadium by 2029. It will be Victoria’s first fully electric hospital and will feature 24-hour emergency care, more than 274 beds,
an intensive care unit, maternity and neonatal services, mental health services, radiology services, outpatient care and teaching, training and research spaces.
Getting this hospital would not have happened without the community’s strong support and assistance with Council’s campaign.
Council’s term in office comes to an end later this year, and I’d like to thank residents for their input and ideas over the past four years.
Your questions, feedback on issues and projects, and ideas are important
In its 17th year, the Melton Business Excellence Awards recognise and reward the fantastic contributions local businesses make to our diverse City. Businesses are vital to our community and Council is proud to showcase their innovation, resilience and strength.
This year, Council received more than 80 nominations from local businesses. Find out more at melton.vic.gov.au/ businessawards
The program covers up to $400 per year in registration costs for someone aged 8 to 16 to attend community activities that enrich their lives and education. An additional $200 per year will be available for people living with disability. Details are available at melton.vic.gov.au/ fairgo4youth
to Council and contribute to the community’s health and wellbeing. Thanks again and keep the questions and comments coming.
I’d also like to thank all the community and service groups who support our community week in week out, year in year out. You help binds our community together, helping it flourish.
I am available to meet residents most Saturday mornings from 9am, by appointment. Please contact Barb McKenzie on 9747 7200 to book a time, or contact me directly on 0412 584 224 or via email at bob.turner@melton.vic.gov.au
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
Ageing trucks a safety risk: Union
By Gerald Lynch
Firefighters have called on the state government to urgently implement a rolling fleet replacement program after concerns that gaps in Victoria’s firefighting capability were exposed by the worst industrial fire since the creation of Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) in 2020.
The Derrimut blaze on Wednesday, July 10, required nearly a quarter of the FRV operational fleet to be deployed to the ACB chemical factory on Swann Drive in Derrimut.
A critical piece of specialist equipment was absent during the initial response, as it had been moved across the city to cover another truck that was out of service for planned maintenance.
This meant firefighters had to establish positions closer to the fire and to bulk stores of flammable chemicals, using equipment that took longer to get in place.
A 20-year-old fire truck failed twice to produce foam during the fire response.
Fire Rescue Victoria policies set a 15-year replacement age on fire trucks, yet more than 40 per cent of the FRV fleet is already past this age. That will rise to more than 60 per cent by the end of 2025, according to the United Firefighters Union (UFU).
More than 40 per cent of the fire trucks that attended the Derrimut fire were past their use by date.
UFU Victorian secretary Peter Marshall said the availability of equipment and equipment
failures in the response demanded immediate action.
“This is the loudest wake-up call we are ever going to get,” he said.
“We cannot ignore it. The price of inaction could well be paid in human lives.
“Everyone should be concerned by reports that equipment firefighters needed wasn’t there, that they were placed closer to the fire andbulkchemicalstoresasaresult,thattrucks past their use by date had pump failures and that the entire incident had communications blackouts.
“We will not always have luck on our side. Firefighters in Victoria are going to work every day knowing that their truck might break down.
421195_01
Hip, hip, hooray as Tilly turns one
They say a dog is a man’s best friend, but at St Peter’s Catholic Primary School West Sunshine, Tilly is everybody’s best friend.
The wellbeing dog celebrated her first birthday last week, but aside from a quick song and treat, it was business as usual for the school’s star employee.
Principal Grace Frazzica said Tilly has been an integral part of keeping up the wellbeing of both students and staff.
“If you’re feeling great, you want to come into an organisation, if you’re not feeling great you’re staying at home,” she said.
“Tilly unites our school community through our shared affection for her. She fosters a strong sense of unity and belonging among us. We all take pride in caring for her, which deepens our connections with one another.
“Tilly brings happiness to everyone and plays a crucial role in our school community.”
Brought into the school through the dogs connect program, Tilly arrived at eight weeks old, and has been a community favourite ever since.
A typical day for Tilly, who was named after
the Matildas and their triumph in last year’s World Cup, involves greeting the students and parents, and hanging out in the sick bay to cheer up kids who aren’t feeling well.
“In the morning she welcomes the school community at the front… then she does her own personal training from 9 until 11.
“After that she’s out in the yard and in classrooms, and then she goes into the library for some rest … she can’t always be a working dog.”
Gerald Lynch
“Establishing a rolling fleet replacement program with funding to catch up to this potentially deadly problem and stay ahead of it is a smart, responsible and well overdue investment in public protection for the Victorian Government.”
A state government spokesperson said it has provided funding to emergency services and they have the equipment they need.
“We have delivered more than $100 million to ensure our firefighters have the trucks, resources and equipment they need to protect Victorians and keep themselves safe,” the spokesperson said. “Fire Rescue Victoria’s (FRV) vehicles and equipment are maintained by an expert team to ensure they are both safe to use and ready to respond.”
New name for park
A Keilor North park has officially been renamed, paying tribute to the Aboriginal heritage of the area.
Geographic Naming Victoria has endorsed and gazetted yaluk barring park as the new official name for the former Sydenham Park located in Keilor North.
Theparkis231hectaresandincludes grasslands and river valleys, and is where Jackson Creek, Deep Creek and the Maribyrnong River meet.
It has cultural heritage sensitivity with many Aboriginal archaeological places within the park.
Brimbank council endorsed the name, which means ‘river trail’ in the Woi-wurrung language of the Wurundjeri people, as the preferred new name for Sydenham Park at a meeting in March.
In November last year, council consulted the community on a preferred new name from a list of 3 names provided by Wurundjeri, and 164 responses with a majority of 64.4 per cent supported the new name.
The Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation is pleased with this outcome as it reflects the involvement and collaboration with council on the renaming process, including the proposal of names for the park that hold cultural heritage significance to the Wurundjeri people.
The renaming of Sydenham Park followsanoticeofmotionataJuly2022 council meeting to change the park’s name to an appropriate Aboriginal name suggested by local Aboriginal people.
Park signage will be updated to reflect the new name over the coming months.
Brendan O’Connor to retire from politics at next election
After 23 years in Parliament, Gorton MP
Brendan O’Connor has called time on a career full of exhaustive work to better the lives of the community.
Mr O’Connor will step down at the next federal election, due by May 2025.
He said it was time he spent more of it at home with his daughter Una, as he thanked colleagues and reflected on his time as a parliamentarian.
“If she wasn’t so resilient and remarkable, I would have left the place long ago,” he said. The decision was also to ensure he “could
provide opportunities for capable and energetic members of our government that could step up“ ahead of the next election.
Mr O’Connor served as skills and training minister and was previously employment minister, immigration minister, health services minister and home affairs minister.
He was elected as Burke MP in 2001 before being elected at the Gorton MP in 2004, following electoral redistribution. Mr O’Connor was re-elected in 2007 and 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019 and 2022.
Australian council of trade unions (ACTU)
secretary Sally McManus said Mr O’Connor should be very proud of his contributions and achievements.
“Brendan has dedicated his working life to improving the lives of Australian workers,” she said. “The union movement greatly respected his capacity and integrity. He always brought to any task his strong values, and sharp policy brain.
“He always kept his word and was willing to hit the road and talk directly to working people in their communities and workplaces. We thank him for his great service to the
country and to working people.”
Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney also announced her intention to retire at the next election.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese lauded the achievement of both his cabinet colleagues.
“We’ll always be grateful for the extraordinary example which these two fine Australians give of why people should enter public life to make a difference,” he said.
Gerald Lynch, with AAP
St Peter’s Catholic Primary School wellbeing dog, Tilly, who was celebrating her first birthday.
(Damjan Janevski)
Growing garden help
This Saturday, Keilor’s Horseshoe Bend Community Group (HBCG) members are getting their hands dirty with a working bee, and need all the help they can get.
The group, which recently secured a $5000 volunteer grant from the state government, is getting to work with sights set on a community garden.
Thefundinghasbeenputtowardspurchasing new equipment and facilitating educational programs for volunteers.
Member Lazar Golijanin said every bit of help is appreciated.
“At the moment we are just trying to get the garden beds ready to go … and we are having meetings at the working bees about our next moves,” he said. “For years, the area we look
after had been neglected, there were weeds growing everywhere, so we have stepped in to manage it.”
The group has room to plant eight new trees, andhasanexistingorchard,withplanstogrow outthecommunitygardenanddonateproduce to Foodbank.
There is an upcoming annual general meetingonMonday,August12at7pm,andthe group is looking for new committee members to join.
ThenextworkingbeeisthisSaturday,August 3, from 9am until 1pm, at 113 Horseshoe Bend Main Drive, Keilor. Details: info@ horseshoebendcg.org, or horseshoebendcg. org/home
Gerald Lynch
“I can’t look at his face because I’m in tears,” Ms Aydin said.
She said Huseyin was once “the happiest boy” but his leg injuries mean he may never walk properly again.
“He wants me to give him a time frame for when he will be normal again but I can’t,” she said.
“I don’t know what his future looks like, maybe he won’t be able to walk properly again.”
Ms Aydin hoped Vo would receive a lengthy prison term and will be deported to Vietnam after serving it.
“Doesn’t this man feel sorry, doesn’t he think he should’ve helped my boy?”
Judge Duncan Allen thanked Ms Aydin for her “poignant, tragic” description of what had happened to her child.
“No doubt the most painful thing she’s ever had to do,” he said.
“The impact of what happened that day, and Mr Vo’s driving, has been truly devastating in so many ways.”
Defence barrister Zoe Broughton asked for Vo to be assessed for a community work order but accepted he would serve some time in prison for the tragedy.
“I dont think I could easily stand here and urge Your Honour to avoid any loss of liberty,” she said.
ThehearingwasadjournedtoOctober 28 and Vo, who had been on bail, was taken to prison.
A week to celebrate science
Children and adults can discover and understand details about the universe through the National Science Week exhibition at Scienceworks.
The programs will run from Saturday, August 10, to Sunday, August 18.
of 2 cats per household.
• Additional charges may apply.
• Cancellation and no show policies apply
To book Call: (03) 9364-8742
Email: info@wcd.org.au
This year’s theme, Species Survival – More Than Just Sustainability, invites visitors to delve deeper into the critical issues facing Earth’s biodiversity and explore innovative solutions for the survival and prosperity of diverse species in a rapidly changing world.
Museums Victoria chief executive and director Lynley Crosswell said the program would spark discussions on life’s big questions.
In the Journey Beyond: Australia’s first astronaut, Katherine Bennell-Pegg, will kick off the week with an exclusive interview.
In From Melbourne to Mars: The Hunt for Life in Space, deputy program scientist on NASA’s perseverance mission to Mars, Dr Adrian Brown will join the Melbourne
Planetarium live from NASA headquarters in Washington for a conversation with Museums Victoria’s senior curator of astronomy, Dr Tanya Hill.
In the lightning theatre, a 30-minute live science show will explores the science of glow and luminosity and culminate in a spectacular finale with a giant Tesla coil producing lightning using over two million volts of electricity.
In The Martian Garden, visitors can meet researchers from La Trobe University and experiment with vertical farm robots and future foods – like Martian spinach cheese –to measure psychological responses to space food.
In The Energy is a Superpower, visitors can join a half-day STEM workshop to explore the many forms of energy. Details: museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/ whats-on/.
Anne Parisianne
Planetarium Nights at Scienceworks. (Supplied)
Horseshoe Bend Community Group volunteers Marj Garcia and Lazar Golijanin are working hard to keep up the gardens. (Damjan Janevski) 421336_01
Youth mentors in short supply
By Cade Lucas
Dozens of vulnerable youth in Brimbank in need of adult mentors are going without due to an ongoing shortage.
Youth services social enterprise Sparkways run a mentoring program for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds across the western suburbs.
Yet despite repeated appeals over the last year, Brimbank, along with Melton and Wyndham, still faces a shortage of adults willing to be mentors as the number of young people in need of them continues to grow.
“We have over 15 young people in Brimbank who need a mentor at moment,”
said Sparkways team leader Fletcher Curnow, adding that the demographics of Brimbank make filling the shortfall particularly challenging.
“I think it’s a high need area and it’s a growing community as well.”
Sparkwayscurrentlyhaveaboutfivementors matched with a young person in Brimbank, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds, have experienced trauma, have a disability or come from broken homes.
He said that once young people in the program are matched with the right mentor, the benefits to them are obvious.
“They get the opportunity to build connections with positive adult role models,
Top VCE students lauded
Four former and current students across schools throughout Brimbank received 2023 Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) study awards on July 17.
The awards recognised the outstanding achievements of students completing the VCE, with study scores of 46 or above being celebrated.
Braybrook College alumni Ryan Pham receivedanawardforhisexceptionallaboratory skills, and current year 12 student Matilda Crosbie was honoured for her achievements in psychology, after completing units three and four as a year 11 student last year.
Ryan, now studying for a science degree at the University of Melbourne, said his key to achieving the award was consistent studying and “doing a little bit every day.”
Matildasaidsheandherbestfriendmotivate
each other to study.
“I feel satisfied that my hard work last year has paid off,” she said.
Braybrook College assistant principal Arlene Bailey said the school’s staff and students were proud of Ryan and Matilda.
Also receiving study awards was St Albans Secondary College’s Kelly Lam for an outstanding completion of biology, and Sunshine College’s Sara Banjanin for her work in the VCE VET course of creative and digital media.
A total of 332 awards, including 23 Top All-Round VCE High Achiever Awards, recognisedtheexceptionaldedicationandhard work of 310 students during the 2023 VCE.
Matilda Crosbie received a VCE study award.
(Damjan Janevski) 420212_01
Fun and fitness with Zumba
BrooklynresidentscanjoinaZumbaexperience at Brooklyn Community Hall on Tuesdays.
Instructor Michelle O’Loughlin said Zumba has been good for keeping her active.
Zumba is a high-energy dance fitness programthatcombinesLatinandinternational music with dynamic dance moves. It improves cardiovascular health, aids in weight management and enhances muscle tone and flexibility.
Ms O’Loughlin said Zumba has also helped her overcome osteoporosis.
Diagnosed with the condition at 38, she is now 63 and completely free of it, she said.
“I don’t have to take any medication or anything like that. It’s just through exercise and doing Zumba,” Ms O’Loughlin said.
Her passion for Zumba began at a sports convention, leading her to introduce it in her women’s gym, and she has been dedicated ever since.
In her classes, Ms O’Loughlin said she has a diverse group of participants, from 20-year-olds to 80-year-olds.
“Theyjustdoitattheirownlevel.Theycome, they enjoy the class, the people around them, the music, and just have fun,” Ms O’Loughlin said.
Byfosteringafunandinclusiveenvironment, Zumba builds community connections and promotes mental wellbeing, she said.
Hobsons Bay Council sponsors these sessions.
Join the Zumba fun at the Brooklyn Community Hall, 35 Nolan Avenue, Brooklyn, on Tuesdays at 6pm.
Details: hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Community/ Whats-On/Zumba-with-Michelle-atBrooklyn-Community-Hall
which they are often lacking, and therefore they get to set and achieve goals that are important to them such as improved social skills, employment, confidence, self-esteem and important life skills,” Mr Curnow said.
According to Sparkways, 100 per cent of young people report feeling happier, and more confident after being matched with a mentor for at least a year, while 82 per cent report being more aware of how to take care of their own needs and 78 per cent say they know more about how to support their friends.
Three-quarters say they know more about how to look after themselves, while 70 per cent report an interest in pursuing further education.
In order for this to happen though, appropriate mentors need to be found, with Mr Curnow saying finding men willing to become mentors was especially difficult, with most of their applicants being women.
The program is open to adults of all ages and Mr Curnow said eligibility requirements weren’t stringent.
“We provide lots of training and support and really the main thing we need is people who are willing to give back, have lots of empathy and a willingness to learn.”
Mentorships involve fortnightly catch-ups over a 12 months period.
Details: sparkways.org.au/mentoring/ sparkways-mentoring-program
Anne Parisianne
Michelle O’Loughlin.
Raising awareness of stillbirth
By Casey Neill
Jacki O’Farrell had a cardiac arrest during her first birth and was unable to sit up for her first two weeks of motherhood. Her second baby was stillborn.
The Sunshine mum of three says there’s no silver lining to what she’s been through, but she’s determined to use her experience to support others.
Jacki fell pregnant with her daughter Charlie in2020.Afterfinallybeingadmittedtohospital after three days in labour, monitors meant to beclockingCharlie’sheartratekeptslippingoff her tight tummy.
Medical staff broke her waters, placed a monitoring clip on Charlie’s head, and told her Charlie’s heart rate had dropped.
An anaesthetist performed an epidural and Jacki settled in to get some rest, armed with a button to press every 15 minutes for drug delivery. The second time she pressed the button, her body felt drunk, but not her mind.
Jacki had suffered a dural puncture and was being inundated with drugs.
“My hand started going a bit numb. My mouth and tongue started to feel a bit similar,” she said. “The last thing I remember hearing was ‘she’s turning blue’.”
Medical staff performed CPR on Jacki for 12 minutes. “While that was happening I had an episiotomy and Charlie was forcepped out.
“Luke watched them do CPR for about a minute on her. Then he heard her crying, so his
attention focused back on me.
“He was picturing a life without me. He was playing his life out, doing it by himself.”
Jacki woke up with “the worst headache”.
“It felt like someone was crushing my skull,” she said. “My optic nerve was impacted. Everything was really blurry. I thought I was blind.”
Jacki was in ICU while a healthy Charlie was in NICU for monitoring. Jacki was moved to high care and was finally able to hold Charlie –for about 10 minutes, laying horizontally.
“I was leaking spinal fluid from the epidural needle hole every time I sat up,” she said.
“The first two weeks of motherhood were spent laying flat on my back.
“I’m quite maternal. Not being able to care
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for your baby was a massive hurdle.”
About six months later she was diagnosed with PTSD and medicated.
JackifellpregnantwithOakleywhenCharlie was about 10 months old.
“I was excited but then also terrified at the exact same time,” she said. “I couldn’t have anythingcatastrophichappenagain.Iwouldn’t have been able to mentally deal with it.”
But at 31 weeks, she noticed a change in Oakley’s movements.
“Wecalledhimthehurricanebaby,”shesaid. “Itwasreallyeasyformetoidentifywhenthe movements had reduced.”
Doctors confirmed there was no heartbeat.
“We just sat in the room wailing,” Jacki said. “We couldn’t cry hard enough.
“It hit me like a shovel to the face, ‘I have to give birth, I still have to have the baby’.
“I was just screaming ‘I don’t want to do it’.
“I never thought that would happen to us, especially after what happened with Charlie.”
They had a night at home and returned for induction the following day, with wonderful support from the hospital.
A postmortem was inconclusive.
“He moved around so much, the cord was around his neck when he was born, and there was a knot in the cord,” Jacki said. “It’s nothing that anyone could have prevented or changed.”
Their families met and held Charlie, and then they went home.
“Thatwasoneofthemostchallengingthings to experience. Saying goodbye,” Jacki said. “You never want to leave your child anywhere alone.
“I left my baby by himself.”
Having to show up for 18-month-old Charlie every day helped Jacki through her grief.
An urn containing Oakley’s ashes and a photo of their lost son are on display at home. They bought a baby oak tree to mark the first anniversary of his birth.
Four months after losing Oakley, she fell pregnant again.
“His due date was four days after Oakley’s first anniversary,” she said. “I just didn’t want tobepregnantonorafterOakley’sanniversary. I wanted them separate.”
She was booked for an induction the week before and was in active labour for three hours before welcoming Conor.
“Icouldnotbelievethedifferenceinrecovery from Charlie,” she said.
Jacki now dedicates her spare time to raising awareness and money for Stillbirth Foundation Australia and Still Aware through her small business BHOOMI Babe. She sells breastfeeding blankets and burp cloths and donates $5 from each purchase to the charities.
“You look for the silver lining and there is no silver lining, so what’s the next best thing I can do?”shesaid.“It’snotgoingtochangeanything for us, but it might help someone else.”
To others who’ve lost a baby, Jacki says “it’s more common than people realise” and “it’s OK to feel what you’re feeling”.
To their friends and family, Jacki says to avoid minimising their experience.
“We did have friends who just came and sat on our kitchen floor and said ‘what happened, howareyoudoing?’andjustbeingcomfortable sitting there watching us cry,” she said.
“Just asking ‘are you happy to talk about it?’ is a good place to start.”
Have your say on women’s health in the north-west
Star Weekly is aiming to bring the healthcare issues facing women in Melbourne’s west and north into the spotlight with its new health survey.
The online survey is part of the 12-month Women’s Health Matters campaign, which addresses the systemic obstacles and barriers women must overcome when managing their health.
Topicsreportedby StarWeekly includeaccess to specialised and preventative healthcare, availabilityofculturallyappropriatehealthcare, and adequacy of mental health services.
The survey, which is completely confidential, has 16 questions and takes less than five minutes to fill out.
Participants will be asked about what theirtophealthconcernis,iftheyhavetravelled outside their suburb to access healthcare, and if they were happy with the care they have received, among other questions.
Star Weekly news editor Laura Michell said the opportunity to cover these issues was of significant importance to the paper.
“Star Weekly is proud to be able to champion women’s health in the western and northern suburbs over the next 12 months,” she said.
“It is our hope that the Women’s Health Matters campaign will raise awareness of the critical health issues affecting women and advocate for change.”
MrsMichellsaidhearingfromindividualsin the region about their healthcare experiences would help enrich the reporting of these
matters and increase their recognition.
“Results from the survey will better inform our campaign coverage,” she said.
“Star Weekly has created this women’s health survey to help us better understand the healthcare issues affecting women living in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs.”
“Wewanttohearaboutyourstoriesofsuccess and resilience to help motivate and empower other women to seek help and support when needed,” she said. “Women too often pay too little attention to their healthcare needs.”
Scan the QR code above to take the confidential survey.
Jacki and Luke with Conor, Charlie and a photo of baby Oakley. (Supplied)
Taking the chess world by storm
Nine-year-old Point Cook boy, Rheyansh Reddy, will compete in a world chess championship in Italy later this year, Cade Lucas reports.
Point Cook’s Sasirekha Reddy can recall the moment she knew her youngest son Rheyansh was no ordinary boy.
“When he was around four and half one day he came to me and asked how a knight moves on the chess board, ” said Ms Reddy, who wasn’t aware that Rheyansh even knew what chess was let alone had any interest in it.
“I was surprised and asked him ‘do you know you know the other pieces on the chess board ?’ and he showed me all the other pieces and how they moved. I was shocked.”
Chess was hardly foreign in the Reddy household.
Ms Reddy plays herself and her elder son, Druthin, had recently taken it up too, something Rheyansh, unbeknownst to her, had been keeping a close eye on.
Proving he could put theory into practice, in the space of three months Rheyansh went from never having played before to easily beating his older brother.
It was rapid progress that only continued when his mother took him to his first competition in 2018.
“Before he turned five took him to a small tournament at the Wyndham chess club and he won four rounds in the under-16 category in the first tournament in his life. We took him to another tournament he played so confidently and he beat more experienced kids. I could see his confidence and joy when he was playing. He was not thinking ‘I’m going to win this game’, he was enjoying it. Even now he just enjoys the game.”
Now Rheyansh is nine years old and firmly entrenched as one of global chess’ great young prodigy’s, the type of generational talent that has him bestowed with titles like ‘CandidateMaster’andhaspeopleinthechess
community referring to him as a ‘superstar’ and ‘Queens Gambit’ after the Netflix show about an orphaned chess prodigy. They might need to come up with even grander monikers later this year after Rheyansh competes at the world age group championships in Italy in November.
In order to help get him there, the Hobsons Bay Chess Club is holding fundraising event on August 6, where Rheyansh will play a simultaneous exhibition match or ‘simul’
Mr Goh has witnessed Rheyansh’s ability on chess board up close and said he’s every bit as good as advertised.
“Rheyansh started playing in our club when was about five years old and he actually beat me when he was six so that was very impressive,” he said.
“He is very very good. Very, very good.”
against multiple players at once.
Far from showing off, simul’s are a popular way for chess masters to demonstrate their skills and for amateur players to gain valuable experience by playing against a higher-level opponent.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for our juniors to challenge themselves and play against our own junior master,” said Hobsons Bay Chess Club instructor Casey Goh of the fundraising event.
GRUFFALO PLUSH & BOOKS
November’s world cadet championships in Montisalvano won’t be Rheyansh’s first time on the world stage.
Last year he became the first Australian in 35 years to win an Asian age group title when he took out the under-8’s category at a tournament in Bali.
Earlier in 2023 he competed in his first world championships in Batumi, Georgia, finishing 10th.
To register for the exhibition or donate, visit: https://shorturl.at/W1L8Q
Rheyansh Reddy is a chess champion. Above: Rheyansh with some of his trophies. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 420043
Nourishing lunchbox ideas for the cooler weather
Winter is a great time to pack hearty and nourishing foods in lunch boxes to keep kids warm and satisfied throughout the day. Here are some ideas for winter-friendly school lunches:
Soup in a Thermos: Pack a thermos full of warm soup, such as chicken noodle, tomato, lentil, or vegetable soup. Pair it with some whole grain bread or crackers for dipping.
Hot Sandwiches: Makesandwicheswithwarm fillings like grilled cheese, turkey and cheese, or meatball subs. Wrap them in foil to keep them warm until lunchtime.
Pasta Salad: Prepare a cold pasta salad with hearty ingredients like whole wheat pasta, roasted vegetables, and grilled chicken. It’s filling and can be eaten cold or at room temperature.
Quiche or Frittata: Bake mini quiches or frittatas filled with vegetables, cheese, and maybe some ham or bacon. They’re delicious served warm or cold.
Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Bake potatoes and fill them with toppings like cheese, broccoli, chili, orbacon.Wraptheminfoiltokeepthemwarm until lunch.
Warm Grain Salads: Makesaladsusinghearty grains like quinoa, barley, or farro, mixed with roasted vegetables, nuts, and a flavorful dressing. They’re filling and can be enjoyed at room temperature.
Warm Fruit: Pack warm fruit like baked apples or pears in a thermos with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey. It’s a
comforting and nutritious treat.
Homemade Muffins or Scones: Bake muffins or scones with whole grains, fruits, and nuts. They’re perfect for a cozy snack during the winter months.
WarmDrinks: Packathermosofhotchocolate, herbaltea,orwarmappleciderforacomforting beverage option.
Trail Mix: Make a custom trail mix with nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and a few chocolate chips
The due dates for our scholarship applications will be on the 30th of August, 2024
contact Andrew Atherton on 9361 3888 or andrew.atherton@education.vic.gov.au or Michael Gruis on 9365 4111 or michael.gruis@education.vic.gov.au or Kayla Di Benedetto on 9365 4111 or kayla.dibenedetto@education.vic.gov.au or visit our website www.copperfieldcollege.vic.edu.au
ered by our dedicated teachers.
Scholarships are awarded for two years commencing in Year 7 and then reviewed going into year 8. Scholarship recipients will be Grade 6 students who will be attending
for a sweet and satisfying snack that provides energy and warmth.
Remember to consider your child’s preferences and any dietary restrictions when preparing their lunch box meals.
College in Year 7 the following year. The Scholarship is valued at approximately $4500 and includes the following
100 days brighter: Albanvale Preps celebrate milestone
Albanvale Primary School, a beacon of excellence is celebrating a major Prep milestone
In the bustling landscape of educational choices, Albanvale Primary School emerges as a standout in the community, renowned for its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, holistic development and inclusive values.
As the Preps at Albanvale Primary have discovered, it offers more than just a place of learning—itprovidesanurturingenvironment where every child can thrive.
The whole school community comes together every year to celebrate the Preps’ 100 days of school.
In recognition of this milestone the newest membershaveaspecialmorningteaandbuddy activities, culminating in a Prep centenarian dress-up parade.
At Albanvale Primary School, the pursuit of excellence isn’t just a goal but a daily practice ingrained in its curriculum. With a tailored approach catering to diverse learning needs and styles, the school ensures that each studentreceivesthenecessarysupporttoexcel.
Emphasising foundational skills in literacy and numeracy shown through consecutive outstanding NAPLAN results, coupled with innovative teaching practices, Albanvale Primary School equips its students with a robust academic framework essential for their future endeavours.
AtAlbanvalePrimarySchool,allclassrooms are equipped with current technology to unlockthe21stcenturylearningenvironment. Each student in the school has access to their own laptop, with a 1:1 laptop program in Years 3 to 6, which enables eLearning tools to be integrated across learning domains and prepares students with the skills needed for success now and into the future.
Classroom learning programs are enhanced with the support of school camps, excursions, and whole-school events. Recently, Albanvale Primary School held its inaugural STEM week and athletics carnival. Dressed in their house colours, students competed in a range of events, with Yellow House victorious on the day.
An upcoming event which is much loved by the wider community is the Albanvale PS LITFEST, recognising students’ achievements in reading and writing. Students at Albanvale Primary School celebrate this event with a dress up parade of favourite book characters, SWPBS Book Fair, spelling bee competition, writer’sgalleryandtheAlbanvalereadingcafé, where parents and their children can share and celebrate their love of reading over a coffee and hot chocolate provided by the school.
Albanvale Primary School exemplifies the significance of prioritising student inclusion and engagement through the implementation of school-wide positive behaviours and restorative practices. Achieving gold status, thehighestrecognitionforembeddingSWPBS approaches into the school culture, Albanvale Primary School fosters a sense of community, respect, and accountability among students and staff. School-wide positive behaviours establish clear expectations for behaviour and promoteapositiveschoolclimateandfostering a sense of belonging. Restorative practices empower students to take responsibility for theiractionsanddevelopempathyandconflict resolution skills.
Albanvale Primary School stands as a beacon of educational excellence, offering a bright future for the community.
Embrace the opportunities that Albanvale Primary School provides by enrolling today to be part of a school community dedicated to realising every child’s fullest potential.
ENROL ONLINE
Albanvale Primary School Preps are celebrating 100 days of school. (Supplied)
Preps mark 100 days of learning at St Peter’s
As the new school year unfolded at St Peter’s Catholic Primary School, West Sunshine, it eagerlywelcomedthePrepstudents,excitedto embark on a journey of growth, learning and discovery. Now, as the school celebrates their first 100 days of school, it is proud to share the remarkable progress these young learners have made in such a short time.
From the moment they stepped into the classroom, the Prep students embraced the ‘St Peter’s way’, quickly adapting to the school’s nurturing and inclusive environment.
The first days were filled with wide-eyed curiosity and a few nervous smiles, but it wasn’t long before those smiles turned into confident grins, and the curiosity blossomed into a love for learning.
One of the cornerstones of the approach at St Peter’s is fostering a sense of community and belonging. The dedicated teachers and staff have worked tirelessly to ensure that every child feels seen and valued. Through interactive activities, engaging lessons, and a supportive atmosphere, the Preps have thrived, building strong foundations for their educational journey.
In these first 100 days, students have explored various subjects, from literacy and numeracy to art and physical education. They have learned to read their first words, count
with confidence and express their creativity through vibrant artwork. Each milestone reached is celebrated, not just as an individual achievement, but as a collective success that underscores the spirit of collaboration and encouragement at St Peter’s.
One of the highlights of this period for the school has been witnessing the friendships that have formed among its Prep students. Through play, shared experiences and cooperative learning, they have developed social skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom. The joy of seeing them support and uplift one another is truly heartwarming and reflects the strong sense of community that defines St Peter’s.
As the school looks back on these first 100 days,itisfilledwithgratitudefortheincredible journey the Preps have embarked upon. Their enthusiasm, resilience, and curiosity inspire the school every day. St Peter’s is excited to see how they will continue to grow and flourish in the years to come, and is committed to providingthemwithanexceptionaleducation that unlocks their potential.
St Peter’s believes that every child’s journey is unique, and it is honored to be a part of these early steps. Here’s to many more days of discovery, learning and joy for the wonderful Prep students!
St Peter’s Preps cebrate 100 days of school. (Supplied)
Justin Spagnuolo
With a proven track record over the last 10 years and having called over 400 auctions with over 400 5 Star reviews. Justin’s commitment and energy levels are unmatched. Justin leads a high class team to deliver incredible service and phenomenal results across the Sales and Rental departments.
Contact: 0432 155 830
Seb Kowlessur
Seb is an accredited auctioneer with years of experience. Seb speaks multiple languages including French, Creole and English. Seb’s incredible career has seen many repeat clients coming back due to his personal and consultative approach.
Contact: 0415 444 691
Tri Bui
Having been in the Real Estate industry for many years. Tri offers an exceptional blend of personalisation and professionalism when helping anyone looking to Buy or Sell. Speaking multiple languages including Vietnamese and English, Tri’s dedication to his clients is a true testament to his calming and supportive nature.
Contact: 0432 288 111
Brooke Single
With a decade of experience, Brooke is your go to for all things Property Management. Managing a small portfolio, our motto is “ Do more for less people”. Our goal is to never be the biggest but our goal is to help both renters and rental providers better than anyone can.
Contact: 03 9425 2272
David Cassar
David’s personal touch with every home he has had the pleasure in selling, is why David’s many repeat clients continue to use him. He offers an ability to articulate your home better than anyone. With a heart of gold and friendly nature, David’s ability to communicate has made him a highly regarded figure in Real Estate.
Contact: 0410 701 980
Jeremy Bondoux
Spark Real Estate is proud to offer an inhouse Finance service. Jeremy has years of experience with the biggest and best banks has led him to partner his business with Spark Real Estate. We make it easy for buyers to buy off us with this service, which sellers find quite reassuring. If you are looking at refinancing or applying for approval. Reach out to Jeremy today.
Contact: 0408 614 514
Contact us today on 03 9425 2272 if you are looking at Buying, Selling or needing assistance with Property Management and Finance. Our team is a one stop shop with over 400 + 5 star reviews helping the local and neighboring communities.
A slice of Italy
VivaItalia!has arrived at the Bowery Theatre, showcasing a series of works based on the 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 exhibition is available for free public viewing from 9am to 5pm every weekday until September 7.
Star Weekly photopgrapher Ljubica Vrankovicvisitedthe gallerytocapture the art.
John Barcham with some of his work.
(Pictures: Ljubica Vrankovic) 420838
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Enquire today to secure this allotment, you don’t want to miss out!
David Falcone I 0413 116 717 I davidfalcone@atrealty.com.au atrealty.com.au /davidfalcone
Cubs are the mane attraction
Whosaidgrowingupisn’tfun?WerribeeOpen Range Zoo’s lion cubs are taking their first stepsintoadulthoodastheybegintoformtheir striking iconic manes.
After melting the hearts of Australians as newborns last year, now one-year-old males Jango and Mwezi are starting to sprout an adorable short fuzzy fur collar around their necks, shoulders and ears.
Werribee Open Range Zoo African river trail keeper Laura Hickleton said the cubs’ manes are starting to darken in complexion and provide a contrast to their yellow-golden coat.
“The growth of their manes marks the cubs’ transitionintosub-adults,whichiscomparable to humans reaching their early teenage years,” Ms Hickleton said. “They’re also looking a little lanky in stature and their manes are quite patchy and different colours. So, they are definitely in their awkward ‘teenage’ phase.”
But Ms Hickleton said the cubs still have a few more development years before they reach
the thick, luxurious and pristine look of their seven-year-old father Sheru.
“Their manes will fully develop anywhere between four-to-five years of age. So, they still havequiteabitofgrowingtodo,”MsHickleton said.
A mane has many important physiological functions. It is a visual indicator of a lion’s dominance – males with larger, darker and more impressive manes can be perceived as more formidable and authoritative leaders and are more likely to win disputes over territory, food and competitions for females.
Manes also provide a thick layer of protection during physical encounters with rival lions as the hair can absorb the impact of bites and blows. Manes are also used to obtain the attention of lionesses during displays of courtship.
Mane growth can vary between lions and is believed to be influenced by a combination of genetics, nutrition, environmental and hormonal factors.
The cubs are starting to sprout an adorable short, fuzzy fur collar. (Supplied)
Staff admiring the art.
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Immune system organ (6)
4 Clearly demonstrate; prove (6)
10 Was (5)
11 Gaseous fuel (9)
12 Binding agreements (9)
13 Port city in Belgium (5)
14 A counting number (6)
15 Cicatrix (4)
19 Greeting (Ital) (4)
20 Overseas (6)
24 Dollars (coll) (5)
25 The common people (3,6)
27 Training (9)
28 Sharp protrusion (5)
29 Restraint (6)
30 Commands (6) DOWN
1 Chosen (8)
2 Plant yielding fragrant oil (8)
3 Declare one’s approval (7)
5 Traveller (7)
6 Family members (6)
7 Forces out (6)
8 Fashion designer, – Jacobs (4)
9 Ill from ocean movement (7)
16 Northern Indian state, Jammu and – (7)
17 Fuel pit (8)
18 Consultants (8)
19 Gush (7)
21 Software (7)
22 The best at (6)
23 Discharge (6)
26 Scottish island (4)
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
9 words: Good 13 words: Very good 18 words: Excellent Today’s Aim:
3 LETTERS
1 What was the name of the boat in the movie Jaws?
2 Dan Brown’s 2003 novel The Da Vinci Code opens with a murder in which museum?
3 What type of reptiles are leatherbacks and ridleys?
4 Janus is the ancient Roman god of what?
5 In which city are the Spanish Steps located?
6 Who, alongside Jordan Peele (pictured), created the sketch comedy series Key&Peele?
7 The Palace of Versailles was built in which 17th-century architectural style?
8 In carpentry, what is a plumb bob used for? 9 Lydia Deetz, Barbara Maitland and Otho are characters in which Tim Burton film?
10 Goulash is the national dish of which European country?
No. 196 No. 196
Business awards finalists named
Thefinalistsinthe2024CityofMeltonBusiness Excellence Awards have been announced, with 27 making it through out of 80 nominees.
The businesses range from hospitality, trades, professional services, and creative industries and are eligible to win from one of 11 categories.
Categories include new business or start up; visitation and hospitality; disability inclusion; professionalservices;health,wellnessandcare; equality diversity and inclusion; innovation and transformation; and sustainable produce or process.
Deniz Ahmet from No09 The Café, Elise Laguna from That Singing Studio, and Thi Duyen Anh Nguyen are up for Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
All businesses have the chance to win the Mayoral Achievement Award and Business of the Year.
The winners will be announced during the awards evening at the Windmill Gardens Reception on September 4.
In its 17th year, the Melton Business Excellence Awards recognise and reward the fantastic contributions local businesses make to Melton.
Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the initiative celebrated the success of local businesses and would help them thrive moving forward.
“The diverse range of businesses in Melton are the lifeblood of our community and council is proud to showcase their innovation, resilience and strength,” she said.
“I would like to thank every business that took the time to nominate. The judges were impressed with the high calibre of all the submissions.”
COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
New Business or Start Up
•StoktakeAustralia
•No9TheCafé •Kidzalia
Visitation and Hospitality
•PunthillCarolineSprings
•WitchmountEstateWeddings&Events
•MadameDolceCafe
Disability Inclusion
•AutismGoals
•AustralianIntegratedCareServices
•IhatiWellness
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Professional Services
•VarconGroup
•GarageandRollerDoorServices
•TwinkleDrivingSchool
Health, Wellness and Care
•BarmFitness
•HitfitMelton
•RehmatSandhuFoundation
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
•MeltonMusic
•InsightClinicMentalHealthServices
•KumonCarolineSpringsNorthEducation Centre
Young Entrepreneur of the Year
•No9TheCafé–DenizAhmet
•ThatSingingStudio–EliseLaguna
•CarolineSprings
Innovation and Transformation
•StoktakeAustralia
•YellowFINRoboticSolutions
•ABMTGroup
Sustainable Produce or Process
•LivingKoko
•BeeResponsible
•CDSMelton
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication
Pop up blood drive
Got a bit of time next month? Time to give blood and change lives? One in three people in Sunshine will need blood, and they need people like you to give it. It’s popping up in town Until August 2 at the Croatian Catholic Centre Sunshine on 22 Fitzgerald Road, Sunshine West.
■ lifeblood.com.au, or 13 14 95
Deer Park Senior Citizens AGM AGM for 2024, held at the Deer Park Lions Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park. Monday, August 12 at 1pm. There will be an election of the committee and other general business.
■ 9363 7326
Keilor Day View Club
The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies.
■ Robyn, 0425 387 880
Palliative volunteers needed
Mercy Palliative Care is looking for volunteers to visit palliative care patients in their homes to offer social support.
■ 9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au
Deer Park Lions Club
Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park.
■ Michael, 0417 307 572
week’s
choice is of actress
Theatre Company. (Damjan Janevski) 420441_01
Women’s only conversation English
Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to make friends, learn new skills and practice English in this fun and free women’s social group. Tuesdays during school terms, 9.30am-noon, at Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine. ■ 9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au
Crafternoons
Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to a free adult social opportunity to get together and be creative. Learn a new craft or bring along your own craft projects. Tuesdays during school terms,
12.30-2.30pm, at the Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.
■ 9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au
Girl Guides
Brimbank District Girl Guides is inviting locals to come and try guides before committing to join. Girls aged 5-18 and adults are invited to enjoy the fun and friendship of guiding.
■ Carolyn, 0418 536 084
Sunshine Repair Cafe
Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit
Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Café in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.
■ sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082
Sunshine Heights Junior Soccer Club
The club is on the lookout for more girls to join its junior soccer teams from ages under-8s through to under-14. If you are keen to join, training is held every Tuesday and Thursday at Castley Reserve from 5.30pm – except for under 14 girls who train from 6.30pm.
■ theclub@sunshineheightsjsc.com.au
Al-Anon Family Groups
Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. Confidential meetings held at the Sydenham Neighbourhood Centre (rear of library) every Wednesday, from 1-2.30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary. Facilitated by two certified (WWCC) and experienced Al-Anon members. Parents are invited to bring their teens and join the adult meeting.
Card games
Love playing the card game 500? Card games are played every Monday, from 7-10pm, at the Sunshine RSL offices, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine. ■ Leisa, 0425 768 808
This
photographer’s
Katrina Gauci from the Wyndham
Winners of the 2023 Melton Business Excellence Awards. (Melton Council)
2024 City of Melton Business Excellence Awards finalists
Display four years in the making
By Eddie Russell
Artist Britt Salt loves that her latest exhibition has found its home in the “community hub thoroughfare” that is the CS Gallery.
She said seeing kids, adults and staff interact with SpatialMurmuration, which is now available to view at the Caroline Springs Library, is awesome.
Viewers can enjoy five tapestries and eight drawings of Salt’s, who spent the last four years working on the display.
Salt said the pieces, a variety of large scale public artwork and small intricate ink
(Pictures: Supplied)
drawings, are often compared to ‘op art’ – the use of black and white geometrical shapes to create images of optical illusions.
“Across all the work there’s a bit of a trick of the eye happening … people say it looks like [prominent op art trailblazer] Bridget Riley,” she said.
“People say at first glance it looks computer generated but I have to say it’s all by hand.”
However, Salt said her work differs from this style because of her fascination with order.
“Unlike modernism and other historical, 60s-based art movements … I tend to use
Show combines culture and music
Preparetobesweptawayonaculturaljourney as the Altona Theatre hosts an extraordinary performance featuring composer and multi-instrumentalist Lamine Sonko and Ngiyampaa singer-songwriter Pirritu on August 16.
This event will feature music that combines traditional cultural knowledge and contemporary styles, creating a rich and diverse musical experience.
Sonko said he’s looking forward to sharing his music and culture.
“Both of us come from a very rich cultural background, so the evening will be full of storytelling,” Sonko said.
“From my said, I’ll be sharing music from
Senegal, from my heritage.”
He said his performances are deeply rooted in his heritage as a guewel (cultural role) of the Sing Sing clan and Korings of Kaabu, and a member of the Serer, Wolof and Mandinko cultural communities of Senegal.
With his distinctive traditional vocal style, alongside kora, sabar percussion, and guitar, he defines new ways to re-imagine traditional African, contemporary synthesis in music.
“it’s going to be an evening, a combination of Senegalese music infusion with Western classical music,” he said.
Pirritu, meaning ’Brett’ in the Ngiyampaa language,offersadeeplypersonalandmelodic journey through his music.
Adopted by a non-Aboriginal couple as a newborn, Pirritu was raised to be proud of his Aboriginality and began his cultural journey at the age of 14.
His music is driven by his love for his daughter and his passion for reconnecting with his heritage.
With two albums to his name, Pirritu’s work weaves folk instrumentation with his unique vocals, echoing the gentle winds and waters of his ancestral lands.
This captivating show is set to take place at Altona Theatre on Friday, August 16, from 7.30pm.
Anne Parisianne
geometry and architecture as foundations to explore that,” she said.
However, Salt loves that human nature triumphs over order – something that is evident in both the process and end result.
“The fact these are by hand and take long stretches of time to make means you inevitably get these slippages or glitches were you see the human and the hand behind the process,” she said.
“I don’t call them mistakes because I see themaspositivethings– Ireallyrelishthem.”
SpatialMurmurationsis available in the CS Gallery until October 14.
Drag Bingo at the castle
Keilor’s Overnewton Castle is set to host its famous dinner show once again, n with the return of the Drag Queen Bingo Night.
The event, back by popular demand, promises an evening filled with laughter and unforgettable performances by Melbourne’s boldest drag queens, Lady Lou Bricant and Spencer Street.
On Friday, August 9, from 7pm to 11pm, guests can indulge in a night of comedy and entertainment.
A ticket includes six exciting rounds of bingo, complete with bingo pads and pens, alongside seven dazzling live drag performances.
The drag queens will bring their signature style and humor, keeping attendees on the edge of their seats.
Attendees will also have the chance to snap photos with the performers and win prizes throughout the night.
Drinks will be available at bar prices after the initial cocktail.
Don’t miss out on this night full of entertainment at Overnewton Castle, 51 Overnewton Road, Keilor.
Tickets: shorturl.at/iMcth
Explore Werribee’s public art on self-guided walking tour
Explore Werribee’s most iconic street art murals with a self-guided trail and free audio tour.
Starting at the Wyndham Cultural Centre andfinishingatKellyPark,thekilometre-long walking tour through the city centre will take about an hour to complete.
The trail takes in works by artists including Ash Keating, Tom Gerard, Ghost Patrol, Minna Leunig and Makatron.
ThetourbeginsinthecarparkofWyndham Cultural Centre where a large-scale mural was created by Keating using paint-filled fire extinguishers in 2006. From there, participants move on to the opposite side of
the centre to view an abstract mural by Drez, painted in 2022. Head along Watton Street to the Coles wall toview Ghost Patrol’s creation, before making your way to the Coffee Pot laneway on Watton Street to view a piece created by Tom Gerrard in 2018.
Other stops include David Lee Pereira’s 110-metre floral mural in the Station Place laneway, created in 2022, Makatron’s 2018 artwork on the laneway beside the Twigg Family Law building, Minna Leunig’s 2019 piece on the Kelly Park toilet block, Hayden Dewar’s mural on the Werribee Water Tank – which can be seen from Kelly
represented by MAMAM – a 41-metre-tall mural.
At each stop, you can listen to the artist talk about their work – no apps required. All you need is your mobile phone and headphones to listen to the audio recordings.
At each site, you’ll also find a QR code and website link to the audio recording.
The tour is suitable for all ages and each bite-sized interview includes a conversation with the artist who created the work – it’s like having your own personal guide.
Details: shorturl.at/c6Dua
Drag Bingo has become an Overnewton Castle staple. (Supplied)
David Lee Pereira painting his mural in Station Place in 2022. (Damjan Janevski) 278761_02
Park – and Mooroop Yarkeen by Tommy Day / Jirri Jirri,
Brett Lee aka Pirritu, and right, Lamine Sonko.
Artist Britt Salt. (Janelle Low).
MY PLACE
Life as the Victoria Police north-west metropolitan superintendent is full on for Michael Cruse, but outside of work he is just another St Albans resident. He speaks to Gerald Lynch about life in and out of the force.
What does your role entail?
In June 2022, I started as the divisional superintendent for north-west metro division three which encompasses the Brimbank and Melton [local government areas]. I’m responsible for all police services in those areas including general duties, detectives and investigators, crime scene services members, the highway patrol, our proactive police and intelligence officers. I’m very privileged to lead a team of talented and dedicated employees who strive to provide outstanding service delivery to the community.
What led you to your current role and career?
Prior to this role I was an inspector at the Counter Terrorism Command. I was also an inspector in Bendigo responsible for the detectives and investigators. I’m very lucky to have had a diverse career but there are so many parts of the police force that you can specialise in. The opportunity to experience such different roles, requiring unique skillsets and involving varied challenges is something that should make policing very appealing to potential recruits. Within the division there are now several qualified drone pilots –something I could never have envisaged when I first joined! I think future police will have even more diverse roles and skills.
Did you grow up in Brimbank? What are some of your favourite places to visit? I grew up on the north coast of New South
Wales, but now have family who live in St Albans. I also do some road cycling in and around Keilor.
What do you like about working in Brimbank?
It would have to be the people I get to work with–bothinVictoriaPoliceandourexternal stakeholders. It makes coming to work every day a lot easier when everyone is equally as passionate about helping the Brimbank community. From a policing perspective, it is a very dynamic area and no one day is the same as the last, which I really enjoy.
What do you do on your time off from work?
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family. I try to start the day with exercise and am part of a few cycling groups. I also compete in amateur motorsport (circuit racing) with my brother which helps me disconnect from work and I wish I could do more often!
What do you want the community to know about you?
Victoria Police is in the midst of its biggest recruitment drive ever, so I’d encourage anyone looking for a new challenge to consider a career in policing. It’s a very rewarding job, you get nine weeks paid leave a year and the opportunity to make a difference in the community. For further information go to police.vic.gov.au/careers
Victoria Police north-west metropolitan superintendent Michael Cruse (Damjan Janevski) 420392_01
Uhi performs on the world stage
By Tara Murray
Sunshine College student Alan Uhi has been mixing it with the world’s best athletes at the Olympics.
The rising swimming star is one of four Tongan athletes competing at the Games.
He was one of his country’s two flag bearers at the opening ceremony despite it being just his first Games.
School assistant principal Jodie Parsons said the whole school was getting behind the year 12 student.
“It is exciting,” she said.
“He’s here as an international athlete and all the teachers and students are really thrilled for him.
“He works so hard in the mornings before school as well as being a year 12 student, it’s a huge effort on his behalf.”
UhiwasborninTongaandcametoAustralia at the start of 2020.
Parsons said the 18-year-old sort of keeps his swimming achievements to himself.
He won several medals at the Oceania games last year while has competed at the World Championships.
“He went to swim at an international competition last year and everyone started thinking he was a good swimmer.
“He goes under the radar and doesn’t spruik himself. We all got excited and he thinks it’s not that big a deal.
“Everyone is so proud of him.”
Parsons said Uhi is the third person connected with the school to make an Olympics team, with the other two were back in 1964.
William Earle ran in the men’s 100 metres and the 4 x 100 metre relay and Michael Ryan competed in the men’s 400 hurdles.
SPORTS QUIZ
1. In ice hockey, each team has how many positions?
2. Who was the captain of Manchester United in 2015?
3. In 1999, which team won the AFL grand final?
Uhi swam the heats of the 100 metres backstroke on Sunday night, Australian time.
He swam in the first heat, finishing in sixth spot with a time of 1:00.62. He finished in 46th place.
Parsons said they were looking at replaying his race at school the following day and celebrating his achievements.
She said not just the school but the whole community was getting behind him.
She said Uhi wasn’t someone that seemed to get nervous.
“He is the calmest kid I have met to be honest,” she said.
“He is so happy to be there and participating at the Games. He didn’t think it would happen to him.”
Elsewhere on the opening two days, South Sudan won its first ever Olympic basketball game.
The side beat Puerto Rico on Sunday night, Australian time, 90-79.
Keilor Thunder’s Kuany Kuany didn’t take to the court.
TheAustralianBoomersgotofftotheperfect start with a win against Spain on night one.
The Boomers led for much of the night and were able to fight back after Spain took the lead inthethirdquarter.Itwouldbea92-80winfor the Boomers. Josh Giddy scored 17 points and had eight rebounds. Dante Exum didn’t play as he recovers from a dislocated finger.
He is expected to be back for the Boomers third game.
Alan Uhi (Supplied)
5. Mike Tyson experienced his first loss to which boxer?
6. In NBA history, how many games have been played on Christmas Eve?
7. In baseball, how many feet are between each
What is the maximum amount of points you can score in curling?
Which ball in snooker is worth seven points?
What are Baltimore known as in the NFL?
Who was appointed caretaker coach of West Coast for the remainder of the 2024 AFL season after Adam Simpson’s sacking?
What colour is associated with the West Coast Fever netball team?
Japanese Paralympian Shingo Kunieda has won three gold medals and dozens of titles in which racquet sport?
14. Which country not usually associated with the sport won the first women’s rugby union World Cup in 1991?
15. How many Test wickets did James Anderson finish up with after his recently-ended long cricketing career?
16. And which English fast bowler took 12 wickets on debut against the West Indies, which was Anderson’s final Test?
17. Which nation enters the stadium first during Olympic opening ceremonies?
18. 2024 Wimbledon ladies’ singles tennis champion Barbora Krejcikova represents which country?
19. AFL player Lance Collard was banned from playing for how many weeks for using homophobic language?
20. Which Sydney Roosters second-rower was named player of the series in the 2024 edition of State of Origin?
21. Robert Murphy was the captain of which AFL team from 2015–2017?
22. In snooker, how much is the pink ball worth?
23. Kelvin Kiptum won which 2023 marathon with a time of 2:01:25?
24. Which is the only Grand Slam tennis tournament to use a clay court?
25. In golf, how many strokes under par on an individual hole is a condor?
26. How long is Canberra’s current premiership drought, the secondlongest active in the NRL
27. Which well-known AFL umpire announced he will be retiring at the end of the season?
28. And which team holds the longest active drought?
29. Which national women's team is known as the Australian Jillaroos?
30. Former Olympian Shane Heal captained which team at his last game at 2004 Athens?
Barbora Krejcikova
Mike Tyson
Scarafilo comes home with silver
Winning a silver medal at the under-16 girls National Basketball Championship has made Jadya Scarafilo even hungrier to succeed on the court.
The Westmeadows resident just missed out on being selected last season as a bottom under-16 player, but made the most of her second chance.
“Iwasextremelyproudofmyselfasitshowed all my hard work at practice, in the gym off the court paid off,” she said. “I worked extremely hard to be selected and my hard work was rewarded.
“The experience was amazing in fact it was everything plus more, the laughs, the stories that were shared, the friends that were made. It has made me hungrier to get there for under-18s. “Yes, there were days that were tough but with the coaches’ support it allowed me to exceed expectations.”
Scarafilo said she was so proud of her team. They lost the grand final to Queensland South,
83-62 to finish with a silver medal.
“Our team did an incredible job,” she said. “You wouldn’t believe it but we were hit with injuries and health issues throughout the campaignandwefacedsomanychallengesjust to get the team to nationals, to walk away with a silver medal around my neck just shows we rose above it. We banded together and got the job done.”
Scarafilo,whoplaysforKeilorThunder,tried many sports growing up.
She didn’t always love basketball.
“Originally with basketball I would run up and down the court crying but it was the one sport I always went back to,” she said. “It becamealovedhobbyofmineveryquicklyand I was keen to get better.’
While basketball remains her first love, she’s also fallen in love with football. She started playing with Strathmore in the under-16s last season.
“I tagged along with my friend to a training
session and loved it,” she said. ”I started off not knowing how to kick the ball or how to bounce it to playing in a winning grand final and taking home the BOG [best on ground] medal.
“Theyaretwodifferentsportsinmyeyesand they both make me smile. Footy makes me feel free and it allows me to challenge myself but the team spirit is just awesome so different to basketball.
“Basketball has been a huge part of my life andwillcontinuetodoso,Ilovethembothand hopefully can be a dual athlete as I get older as it will be too hard to choose.”
Scarafilo said she has so many goals that she still wants to achieve in her sporting career.
“I want to make state teams for both footy and basketball, play NBL1, WNBL or even look at a college pathway.
“So many decisions but just get back to workinghard,staygroundedandseewheremy journey takes me.”
Falcons into decider
By Tara Murray
The City West Falcons took another step towards their championship dream with victory against the Boroondara Express on Wednesday night in the Victorian Netball League championship.
The three-time reigning champions, with Covid in middle, won the semi final between the top two teams to win through to the grand final.
The Falcons started slow and it was game on for the first quarter with the Falcons leading by one goal.
After the first break it was all the Falcons who were able to run away with a 77-54 win. Falcons coach Marg Lind was thrilled they were back in the final game of the season.
“I think the team has been solid this year and I think they really deserved to be there to contest the grand final,” she said.
“We’re very pleased. I think tonight [Wednesday] the experience really showed. I thought Cookie [Jane Cook], Maggie [Lind], Mon [Montana Holmes] in particular, that attack end were really super calm when it was tight.
“Then the defence end came good in the second half when it counted. We’re starting to show they’ve been there before and they know what to do.”
Lind said the Express cheer squad put a bit of pressure on their girls early, but said once they got over that they were able to settle.
She said defensively they’d put a lot of time into preparing for Melbourne Vixens training partner Ruby Barkmeyer, who ended up missing the game with illness.
Lind said the switch of bringing Mel Oloamanu onto the court in goalkeeper and Sophie Hanrahan out into goal difference really worked for them.
“That’s a big out for them,” she said of Barkmeyer. “All of a sudden we were faced with a team that doesn’t have her and are a lot quicker, a different attack end.
“It took us a quarter to work that out. The switch definitely worked and I think Soli [Ropati] improved her one-on-one and shut down the centre pass the goal attack was forced to come over.
Jane Cook shot 65 goals at 100 per cent to continue her dominance for the Falcons.
Uneeq Palavi got more minutes back in the side having returned from national and Suncorp Super Netball commitments.
Lind said she had some good moments, while Olivia Cameron was solid in attack as well.
With the margin blowing out the Falcons were able to give Chelsea Imanisani and Genna Ogier some court time.
‘That’s really important and they’ve been there the whole year,” Lind said “They’re two
Tara Murray
Montana Holmes. (Robbab Photography)
very committed players.
“They don’t have that experience and haven’t been in a grand final before. We have to reward them as well.”
The Falcons will have the week off and face the winner of the Hawks and Express preliminary final.
Lind said they were hoping they would have Lucia Fauonuku back from injury for the grand final.
It was heartbreak for the Falcons under-23s, who were knocked out by the North East Blaze.
The Falcons trailed by 12 goals at three quarter time before getting it back to one goal late in the final quarter.
The Blaze steadied to win 51-49.
Lind said there was a lot of potential in the side and they would continue to build around that core.
The Essendon District Football League senior finals will again be played at Windy Hill and Coburg City Oval.
The league last week announced its days and locations for its men’s and women’s finals, which will kick off on August3withthemen’spremierdivision grand final on September 21 to end the season..
Finals action will start with the women’s division 1 and 2 finals on August 3
The semi finals will be held at John McMahon Reserve, Sunbury and Lakeside Reserve in Roxburgh Park before the preliminary finals will be held at Buckley Park, Essendon.
Coburg City Oval will host the grand finals on on August 17.
The women’s premier division finals will start a week later with John McMahon Reserve and Lionheart Reserve, Taylors Lakes.
The preliminary final will be held at Lakeside Reserve, with the grand final to be held on August 24 at Windy Hill.
Men’s finals will kick off on August 24 for both division 1 and 2.
The division 1 qualifying final will be held on August 24 at Greenvale Recreation Reserve and the elimination final the following day at Coburg City Oval.
The semi finals will be held at Joe Brown Oval, Keilor on August 31 and September 1. Preliminary final weekend will be held at Greenvale Recreation Reserve with the grand final to be September 14 at Coburg City Oval.
Division 2 men’s finals series will be a three week series. The semi finals will be held at Rupertswood’s Salesian College and Greenvale Recreation Reserve on August 24 and 25.
The preliminary final will be held at Salesian College for a second straight year while the grand final will be on September 7 at Windy Hill.
Men’s premier division finals series will kick off on August 31.
Thisyeartherewillbeatopfiveinstead of the usual top four. The qualifying final is set down for Greenvale Recreation as long as Greenvale isn’t playing.
The elimination final on the same weekend, the two semi finals and the preliminary final the following two weekends will all be held at Coburg City Oval.
The grand final will be held at Windy Hill on September 21.
Jayda Scarafilo. (Supplied)
Barbieri ready for the challenge at Westgate
New Westgate coach Anthony Barbieri is hoping to have an impact late in the FV state league 1 north-west season.
Westgate announced that Barbieri would take on the role after the club parted ways with Peter Schwellinger, who was in his first season as coach.
Barbieri said it would be a new challenge.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge,” he said. “To be honest I’d had a fair few offers floating around to coach.
“I was waiting for the right one to pop up and I know a few people at the club. You never say never.”
Barbieri has had a long and successful coaching career spanning more than 13 years. He has won multiple state league and NationalPremierLeague1titles,alsoreaching NPL semi finals and finals several times with Avondale.
Most recently he took Chisholm to back-to-back state league 3 and 4 titles.
Barbieri said there were a lot of things that
attracted him to the Westgate role.
“I knew a few people and I knew the club was in a good position and I don’t think they’ve ever played at the next level.
“It’s good challenge for myself to see what I can do.”
Barbieri is under no illusions about what it will take to earn a promotion spot.
After 16 rounds, Westgate was in fourth spot, four points off second spot. Westgate has a game in hand on the top sides after its round 16 match was postponed.
It’s believed that the top two teams are set for promotion.
“It’s a really tough competition,” he said.
“You have to just look at the ladder and some of the playing squads which have boys that have been at NPL level.
“There is good quality out there in the league and more competitive than the next tier up from what I’ve seen.
“It holds us in good stead to challenge and we’ll see what happens.”
Barbieri said it’s hard to make wholesale changes to the squad late in the season, but backed in the group that he has at his disposal.
“It’sagoodgroupandwe’vehadareasonable season up until now,” he said. “I want to instil my style and philosophy into the game.
“The boys have been good the last couple of weeks since I’ve taken over.
“I have a new set of ideas and bit of experience helps. Hopefully it’ll put them on the right path.”
Westgate was set to face fifth placed Sydenham Park on Saturday night, after deadline.
The Reds were three points behind entering the match.
Barbieri said there were no easy games in the competition.
“You need to show up and make sure you perform on the day,” he said.
“The are looking forward to it.”
Tara Murray
Cleveland has big goals
By Peter Howe
It was a Thursday night in March and the last Victorian Milers Club meet for the season.
Organisers have put up a $2000 Olympic qualifying bonus to any athlete that can win the race and hit the Olympic qualification standard.
In the women’s A 1500 metres race, fifteen-year-old Lucy Cleveland, lined up on the start line with then Australian record holder Linden Hall, Australian 800 metre record holder Catriona Bisset and world championship representative among others.
Cleveland knew the race would be fast and she ensured she remained in control.
Holding her form, Cleveland finished strongly for fourth place, in a time of 4.24.83, a qualifying standard for the World under-20 Track and Field Championships.
It was a coming of age for Cleveland, who now knew she could hold her own.
“Standing on the starting line of that event I realised how incredible that opportunity was, I was one of the youngest in the field,” she said.
“Running against Olympic athletes gave me the confidence to know I can compete at that level and be successful.”
Cleveland has displayed a resilience beyond her years and just loves to run.
She tried many sports, but nothing was like the thrill and the challenge that running did. Cleveland joined little athletics as an under-six athlete.
“You’ve got to give every event a go. I loved the social aspect and I didn’t care where I finished,“ she said. “When I first started out, I wanted to be a hurdler, much to my coach’s dismay.”
Cleveland is coached by Stu Macaulay and competes with Western Athletics.
Her first Victorian Track and Field Championship was as an under-14 athlete and she surprised herself.
It was here that she achieved both the 800 metres and 1500 metres qualifying standards for the Australian Track and Field championships, winning silver in both events.
In achieving the 800m national qualifying standard, Cleveland also broke former Australian Olympian, Morgan Mitchell’s Western Athletics under-14 800 metres club record which she had been chasing all season. Cleveland is now the holder of more than 30 Western Athletics club records.
She then competed at the national championships.
“In my first nationals, I finished 15th in the 1500metres. Iwastherefortheexperienceand I learnt what was required to compete at the level.”
Cleveland has a rigorous training regime that sees her running up to 50 kilometres per
week along with srength and conditioning sessions,andpilatesaspartofherrehabilitation following a sacral stress fracture that stopped her from competing in her under-15 season.
Being injured and not being able to do what she loved became a light bulb moment for Cleveland,
“When you have something taken away from you, you realise how much you love it and it makes you even more determined,“ she said. “I really learnt the importance of the one percenters which has made a huge difference to my running now.”
Cleveland’s return to the track in under-16s was a sign of things to come, winning gold in the 800 metres and silver in the 1500 metres at the 2023 Victorian Track and Field Championships.
She again represented Victoria at the Australian championships, finishing sixth in theunder-161500metreandhadastrongcross country season, winning silver at state and national level.
Her first national medal wasn’t without its challenges for Cleveland, who battled significant mental health issues. Her running played a pivotal role in her recovery.
Earlier this year, Cleveland won gold at the
Sports shorts
VSDCA
Taylors Lakes has announced its first recruit for the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association season. Chalitha Chamoda is a left handed opening batsman and right arm opening bowler, who joins the club from Plenty, where he scored 652 runs and claimed 20 wickets last season. Chamoda will be part of the Lions coaching panel and will work closely with the young pace-seam bowlers, in particular.
Australia Cup
Western United’s Australia Cup run was short lived. United headed up to Darwin to face the Newcastle Jets in a play off fixture for a spot in the final 32 teams. Despite leading all the positive metrics, United was on the wrong end of a score line. The Jets scored three times in the first half to take control of the game on the scoreboard. The match was put beyond doubt in the 60th minute with the Jets scoring their fourth goal. United scored a late consolation goal to make the score 4-1.
VTCA
Victorian championships in the 3000 metres, 1500 metres and 800 metres in the under-17 age group.
She followed it up at the national championships finishing with a personal best andsilvermedalinthe800metresandabronze medal in the 1500 metres.
Cleveland said her heroes are Jess Hull, Abbey Caldwell and Amy Cashin.
Cleveland is in year 10 at Emmanuel College in Point Coo and wants to become a physiotherapist.
On the track she has big goals.
“My athletics dream is to represent Australia at the 2032 Brisbane Olympics,” she said.
“Maybe, even at the 2028 Olympic Games; I will only be 19, but who knows? My first goal, however, is to wear the green and gold at the 2026 under20 World Athletics Championships or the World Cross Country Championships.”
The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly
If you would like to nominate a monthly winner or attend a dinner, contact swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.
After 10 seasons leading Sunshine, Troy Stone is stepping down as player-coach of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association side. During his time, Stone was a crucial part of the Crows success, guiding them through the transition from Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association to the VTCA and playing a vital role in the club’s three consecutive first XI premierships. With a second child on the way, Stone decided it was time to focus on his family. Stone will remain on as a player.
Olympics
Keilor Thunder’s Kuany Kuany has been named in the South Sudan basketball team for the Olympics. Kuany was one of three Thunder players in the bigger squad, but was the only one to make the final team which was announced on Thursday.
Joel Nikolic. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 414027_08
Lucy Cleveland. (Supplied)
Georgies rue a ‘wasted opportunity’ says coach
Caroline Springs George Cross may have done enough to seal its fate in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition, but coach Eric Vassiliadis is thinking what might have been.
After two straight promotions, the Georgies faced a stiff challenge early in the season and for much of the year was in the relegation battle.
They started to find form in the back part of the season to move into the middle part of the ladder.
Vassiliadis says he has mixed thoughts on the season, which has two rounds remaining.
“I think as an organisation looking back at this year we see it as a wasted opportunity,” he said.
“We took the wrong approach at the start of the year as a group. It coincided with some difficulties with injuries and suspension.
“We could not pick up points early, as soon as we got the team where we needed it to be, it’s been a good way to finish the season.”
Vassiliadis said they had a good formula
the last couple of years and they had gone away from that.
He said as a coaching group it’s been the hardest they’ve had to work to try and find the solutions needed.
“It’s not easy to turn things around when you’re in a rut,” he said. “We’ve been able to do that.
“I’m proud of the group.”
On Saturday, the Georgies faced the Eastern Lions. Riki Hosoai and Joseph Ridley were the goal scorers for the Georgies.
Vassiliadis said it was a really strong win.
“We were understrength and we used the opportunity to play some younger players,” he said.
“We had five 15,16,17 and 18 year olds that got an opportunity to come up and they know with that comes responsibility as we still want to win.
I think they were all on the pitch when we got the win”
Vassiliadis said he would have some tough selection decisions this week with a number
of senior players set to return.
He said having all those players, most who havecomethroughtheclub’sprogram,shows the pathway they have set up is working for them.
The Georgies face the North Geelong Warriors this Saturday in the second last round,
Vassiliadis said they want to consolidate the last couple of rounds,
“From fifth to 10th it is really tight,” he said. “We want to finish as high as we can. It’s a better platform for next year.”
Joining the Georgies in VPL1 next season will be North Sunshine Eagles,
The Eagles secured their promotion with two rounds remaining with a 4-3 win against the Boroondara-Carey Eagles on Saturday.
Tara Murray
Cats are sitting pretty
By Tara Murray
Albionstampeditselfastheclearpremiership favourite in the Western Football League division 2 competition.
After narrowly beating Newport in the previous round, the undefeated Cats faced Sunshine in a top of the table clash.
The Kangaroos only loss of the season came in the first meeting between the two sides.
It was the Cats that got off to the fast start and were able to open by a 26 point lead at quarter time.
It was a lead that would prove vital and something the Cats built on in the second half as they ran away with a 9.12 (66)-4.5 (29) win.
Cats coach Blake Richards said these were the sort of challenges they had been looking forward to.
“It was a good day for the footy club,” he said. The last three weeks we’ve had some tougher games against some sides to the top end of the ladder.
“It was good against Newport and we had
a few players out so we tried some guys in different positions.
“We added a few more yesterday.”
Richards said it was wet and pretty slippery all day.
He said the start was the key to the match.
“We were first to get to the footy which was really good,” he said.
“We kicked four goals to one in the first quarter and when it’s wet it’s hard to come back from there.
“We controlled the first half and it flowed on from there.”
The Cats again threw the magnets around in the second half.
Daniel Bramich, who was thrown forward last week and started their this week, moved into the ruck.
“The last couple of weeks we’ve had some key forwards out,” Richards said. “We put him in the ruck yesterday.
“The fact that the guy we’ve put at full back, Juy Capp, has held the role up well, the experiment has worked really well.”
Christopher Tomazos, Joshua Bench and Caleb McPherson were named the Cats best.
Keilor just hold on
Keilor’s winning streak passed 700 days but it wasn’t without a fright in the Essendon District Football League premier division on Saturday.
The Blues faced Strathmore in a top of the table clash on Saturday in wet and cold conditions at Lebanon Reserve.
The match lived up to its billing with the result going down the wire, with the Blues winning, 9.13 (67)- 8.17 (65).
For most of the game, it was the Mores that looked the better team but they weren’t able to convert on its dominance.
Theykicked1.9inthesecondquarter, while the Blues kicked 3.4 to lead by 21 points at the half.
The Mores turned up the screws in the third quarter kicking 5.4 to take a four point lead into the final quarter.
Both sides had chances in the final quarter. A Chris Kosmas goal after an end to end play put the Blues back in front with minutes to go.
Mitch Purcell had the chance to be the hero for the Mores, but missed. The ball was headed back in the Mores forward line as the siren went.
Josh Honey, Kosmas and Oskar Smartt kicked two goals each for the Blues.
Mathew Medcraft kicked two goals for the Kangaroos with Ethan Sivijs named their best.
The Cats now sit two games clear on top of the ladder.
Richards said they would start focusing on what they need to do for finals.
He said they’ll start to get some players back in the next few weeks, including skipper Cooper Muir this week and Jesse Cavanagh is looking at a return in the first week of finals.
“We’ll have a really good block before finals and look to get them fitter,” he said.
“We play some of the lower sides, we want to do everything right for finals.”
In other results, Braybrook’s slipped outside the top six with a 9.14 (68)-1.4 (10) loss to Braybrook.
Sunshine Heights came from behind to beat the Western Rams, 12.11 (83)-11.8 (74), while Albanvale beat Laverton, 16.9 (105)-6.12 (48).
North Sunshine lost to Tarneit 15.12 (102)-4.14 (38).
Defender James Bailey, Honey and Corey Ellis were named the Blues best. The Blues sit 12 points clear at the top of the ladder after 14 rounds.
In other matches, Deer Park got bragging rights against East Keilor, winning 12.9 (81)-9.16 (70).
After scores were level at quarter time, the Lions were able to come away with a 12.9 (81)-9.16 (70) win.
Four players kicked two goals each for the Lions. Jack Noonan and Alex Tran were named their best.
The Lions remain in ninth spot.
In division 1, Hillside came from behind at three quarter time to beat Tullamarine, 11.23 (89)-10.5 (65) and Keilor lost to Oak Park, 18.7 (115)-6.5 (41).
Taylors Lakes and Burnside Heights both had wins in division 2.
Tyler James. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 416141_23
Joshua Michetti. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 418791_13
The wet weather was back on Saturday and with it came some cracker football and soccer matches. StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the action.
Weekend of wet weather sport
Peter Modafferi. (421579_04)
Thom Jonkerman. (421570_02)
Newport’s Mohamed Fofana and Braybrook’s Patrick Farrelly. (421550_12)
Yarraville Seddon upset Werribee Centrals. (421569_04) Paige Cook. (421569_10)Albion’s Brandyn Di Sisto takes down Sunshine’s Stuart Purves. (418791_05)
Rin Takagi. (421570_16)
Albion’s Joshua Michetti and Sunshine’s Declan Moloney. (418791_01)
Some smiles on the boundary line. (421550_32)
Abdu Zuberi. (421579_09)
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