Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 13th August 2024

Red Cross milestone

While the trenches of France and Belgium are now nothing but scars on the land, the Ballan Red Cross is still going strong following its inception during World War I.

On August 20, the second oldest Red Cross branch in Victoria will celebrate its 110th anniversary by having brunch at the Ballan Mechanic’s Institute – the very site where members of yesteryear used to meet.

Branch chair Anne Eskadale said Red Cross roots run deep in Ballan.

“We even have families who have been part of the branch from grandmothers through to great-granddaughters,” she said.

Ms Eskadale, whose aunties were also Red Cross volunteers in the Mallee, said it was an “honour” to be involved in an organisation so steeped in history. Red Cross Australia was formed in 1914 when war broke out in Europe, raising money for parcels and knitting garments to send to the soldiers.

When the conflict was over, most branches went into abeyance – a temporary pause – but Ballan kept going, sending “oranges and cigarettes” to soldiers in hospital and their families.

These tireless efforts are a big source of pride for both members and locals, Ms Eskadale said.

Tickets for the 110th anniversary brunch are $20. Tickets: 5368 1128

A bulky Moorabool issue

By Eddie Russell

Moorabool council has sensationally deferred the Moorabool Retail Strategy to a future meeting after spending 50 minutes debating the establishment of a bulky goods centre. Updatesweremadetothestrategyfollowing feedback, including on the identification of a bulky goods location for both immediate and long-term needs to be met in Bacchus Marsh. Bulky goods premises are large areas for the handling, display, and storage of goods such as household appliances, furniture, carpets, tires, and mattresses.

Speaking to councillors, Maddingley

landowner Ross Closter said the current site nominated, a 3.7 hectare block of land at 30 Fisken Street, would fall short of the 10-12 hectares needed.

“One large Bunnings will take up 100 per cent of that site,” he said.

“If we want to entice national retailers and grow jobs in Bacchus Marsh then sufficient landforbulkygoodsdevelopmentisabsolutely critical.

“If that site is the only one then there’s no opportunity for any other retailer to come … we aren’t looking very far in advance.”

Mr Closter said there was no room for hesitation and that a new site needed to be

found soon.

“We need to start the bulky goods process now … we’ve done enough strategies, it’s time to actually take some action,” he said.

However, community planning and development executive manager Henry Bezuidenhout said rushing the process would be a waste of time.

“We can start the process now but it’s unlikely to align with the strategy and projected growth,” he said.

“Fisken Street provides an adequate response to the short-to-medium term needs and any future development will be tied into future growth.”

Following the back-and-forth discussion, councillor Rod Ward suggested moving the recommendation with an amendment.

“BasedonthefeedbackfromwhatI’veheard I’d like to include the capacity to investigate the ability to rezone the land and plan now,” he said.

However, the absence of two councillors and lack of clarification on next steps led to the agreement that a deferral would allow council to pursue a measured outcome and better understand the issue.

The time spent on this one item was almost as long as the entire length of the last council meeting on July 3, which went for 62 minutes.

Anne Eskdale, Mary Williams and Gail Binks from Red Cross Ballan. (Damjan Janevski) 423916_10

Ambulance times on the increase

By Eddie Russell

Response times to urgent medical emergencies have slowed in Melton and Moorabool.

According to new data from Ambulance Victoria, ambulances in the two municipalities are taking longer to respond to code one cases. Code onr cases include heart attacks, strokes, car accidents, and cardiac arrests, and are required to be met within 15 minutes.

A code one case means paramedics turn on sirens and lights to get to an incident as soon as possible.

In this most recent quarter, from April 1 -

June 30, the average response time for Melton was 17 minutes 10 seconds.

Outof3271firstresponses,only52.9percent of ambulances arrived in 15 minutes or less.

This is a dramatic drop off when compared to the quarter before, which had an average response time of 16 minutes four seconds with 59.5 per cent arriving in 15 minutes or under. Moorabool fared no better this quarter, with an average response time of 19 minutes 2 seconds and only 43.1 per cent of timely responses.

From January 1 to March 30, there was a 52.6 per cent rate of timely responses with an

averageresponsetimeof16minutes27seconds.

Victorian Ambulance Union secretary Danny Hill said the results were unsurprising and that paramedics were frustrated with being held back.

“Paramedicsarespendingmoretimeramped athospital,moretimebeingsenttotrivialcases, andlesstimerespondingtogenuineemergency patients,” he said.

“The entire workforce has been screaming ‘iceberg right ahead’, and now the ship is sinking … patients are suffering.”

Ambulance Victoria metropolitan regional director Michael Georgiou said people could

Recycling to raise funds for the SES

The Melton State Emergency Service (SES) unit is raising money to replace its general rescue vehicle with the help of local recyclers.

A new reverse vending machine at 535 High Street gives residents the option to donate the refundstheymakeonrecyclableitemslikecans and bottles.

TheunitneedsanewIvecoDaily50C21Dual Cab – after being specifically fit out with rescue equipment, the cost comes to about $210,000. Claudelle Dalgleish has volunteered with the Melton SES unit for 23 years.

She said the community has the opportunity to invest in their future safety by helping to

replace the “aging” and “outdated” truck.

“By supporting us, in turn we can support the community in a time of need,” she said.

“Hopefully our community will get behind us and support us in replacing this truck.”

Since August 9, 2023, Melton SES crews have responded to 530 requests for assistance (RFAs), making them one of the top 20 busiest units in Victoria.

Ms Dalgleish said having a new vehicle that was responsive and functioning would be ideal for when the call outs pick up in the summer months.

“Everything counts for us … December and

January are so busy for us and while the vehicle works, it’s so old and takes a long time to turn over [the engine],” she said.

Fundraising efforts are not limited to the Container Deposit Machine and the unit is on the lookout for help from anywhere they can find it, said Ms Dalgleish.

“We are going to do a few tin rattles as well … any bit of money is greatly appreciated.”

“It’d be nice if there is a company that would like to donate towards getting the truck, that would be absolutely amazing.”

Eddie Russell

help ease pressure on paramedics in a variety of ways.

“If your matter is not an emergency, consider using alternative care options like Primary Priority Care Centres (PPCC) or the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) and keep our highly skilled paramedics available for patients most in need,” he said.

“Staying up to date with your yearly flu and COVID-19 vaccinations helps protect you, the people around you, and makes a difference reducing demand on our paramedics during this busy time.”

Opportunity for learning

Curiosity will come to life in the west when the City of Melton Learning Festival at the end of the month.

From Saturday, August 31 to Saturday, September 7, the festival will return for its sixth year to celebrate knowledge for all ages and abilities.

The seven-day festival kicks off at the Melton Library and Learning Hub featuring live music, face painting, cooking and gardening demonstrations, and art workshops. During the week, there will be author talks, workshops, and DIY crafts as well.

The theme of sustainability for the 2024 festival means attendees can enjoy more than 40 earth-friendly programs throughout the week.

They can be found at libraries and community centres across the municipality and are about helping preserve the environment now and for future generations.

Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said moving education out of the classroom and into kitchens, gardens, and libraries made learning more accessible and achievable.

“The festival is a great reminder that learning new skills at any age can be fun and rewarding and keeps your mind active,“ she said.

“There are many fun, free activities happening near you. I encourage everyone to challenge yourself by trying something new or learning more about an existing passion or hobby.“

Details : melton.vic.gov.au/ LearningFestival

SES Melton volunteers Claudelle Dalgleish, Peter Swann, Louise Sanders and Ashley Newton. (Damjan Janevski) 424111_03

Daughters of the west get active

Across the western suburbs, the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation is helping women take control of their health and fitness through its Daughters of the West program. Jaidyn Kennedy discovers how the program is making a difference.

Women in the western suburbs are takingcontroloftheirhealththrough the power of knowledge and fitness.

Daughters of the West is a free 10-week program facilitated by the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation in partnership with councils and community health services.

Kicking off in 2017, the program coincided with the Bulldog’s foundational role in the inaugural AFWL season. Ever since, thousands of women have taken part, and the Western Bulldogs have continued their commitment to supporting women of all walks of life in sport, health and wellness.

The program drew inspiration from the Sons of the West, which was established in response to the poor mental and physical health of men in the western suburbs, along with high male suicide rates. Sons of the West recently celebrated its 10th anniversary.

From day one, the Daughters of the West program has set out on a to tackle the growing inequality in women’s health outcomes by building a community of strong resilient women who want to be engaged and involved in their communities.

Running at multiple locations across the western suburbs, a typical session runs for two hours. The first hour will involve a guest speaker before moving onto fun, group-based exercises. The exercises are catered to all levels of fitness, progressing from low, medium to high.

Offering a tiered and flexible approach to exercise ensures that no woman is left behind at any stage of her journey and can start from anywhere.

The Western Bulldogs’ unique position as the only AFL-AFLW in Melbourne’s west has made the club a cultural pillar in the region for over a century.

Women supporting women produces a unique magic and that is certainly on full display when the daughters come out in force to support the AFLW Squad in a mighty display of red, white and blue.

However, the magic extends well past gameday, with women in all stages of life able to lean on each other as they navigate life’s challenges together.

Returning participants have been one of the program’s many successes, but they have also been crucial in reaching out to newcomers who may be nervous, providing a safe, welcoming environment that encourages people to flourish in their best selves.

Dewi Pearce has been a shining light in the program since she took the plunge.

Narrowly missing out at first, her life changed for the better when she secured a last-minute slot last year.

“It’s really built my confidence, and a year on I can see how much more confident and relaxed I am about exercising and just giving

things a go,” she said. “It was great to ease myself in and not feel any pressure from them to do it in a certain way.”

As the mother of a young family, Dewi knows how important is for women to have accessible and affordable exercise programs.

“It’s incredible to access a ton of high-level exercise opportunities for free,” she said.

Affordable exercise programs are becoming increasingly important as the ongoing cost of living crisis affects many individuals and families in the western suburbs.

The Daughters of the West is far more than just an exercise program, embracing a holistic approach to women’s health. Regular guest speakers attend the sessions, covering a wide range of issues from nutrition to mental fitness.

Some important subjects that guest speakers are invited to chat about include gender equality, women in leadership, mental fitness, nutrition, sexual and reproductive health, cultural diversity, alcohol cultures, heart health and cancer prevention.

One the aspects Daughters of the West values most is the importance of having and building strong social networks.

“The social aspect was awesome, I, over the course of the 10 weeks, got to know a number of the ladies, and actually a group of four of us continued meeting,” Dewi said.

Maintaining a healthy diet is something that can challenge us all, which is why the Daughters of the West encourages small yet consistent changes towards healthier eating.

“It feels really approachable and achievable, so chipping away at that each week has a great impact,” Dewi said.

“Just noticing those small changes over a period of time has been so beneficial for my health.”

Daughters of the West has reached women of diverse backgrounds, ranging from cohorts who require the program in their native language to veterans who face very specific challenges.

While the time the women spend in the program is short, the healthy habits and knowledge they pick up is designed to serve them for life.

The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation’s partnership with Victoria University ensures that all programs are consistently evaluated, determining the best form of delivery for the needs of the community.

The program is open to women and those who identify as women, aged 18 and over who live or work in the west of Melbourne.?

A Vietnamese language version of the program started in July.

Details: westernbulldogs.com.au/ foundation/programs/daughters-of-the-west

Daughters of the West participants. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 415739_14

Daughters of the West participant Dewi Pearce. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 421667_03

Crucial help in the first 1000 days

A clinic at the Royal Women’s Hospital is striving to support babies who have been exposed to drugs and alcohol before birth, and their mothers.

The First Thousand Days Clinic provides careduringpregnancyuntilthechild’ssecond birthday in a bid to better support the next generation.

The pilot program is the first of its kind in the country and will run for three years.

Royal Women’s Hospital neonatologist Dr Anna Tottman said the first 1000 days – the timefromconceptiontothesecondbirthday–is the most rapid period of brain development in the human life course.

‘‘ We recognise that many of the women who come to us, have had really difficult starts themselves ’’

- Anna Tottman

“It’s also a period that is very vulnerable to outside influences and things that can change brain development,” Dr Tottman said.

“It’s also a period of real opportunity where you can positively impact children’s brain development, and we know what happens to you in early childhood actually lays the foundation for a healthy adulthood.

“The environmental impacts upon you as a fetus and as a small child can change the direction of your brain development and thus change your outcome long term.

“And it’s not just brain development; your likelihood of obesity or your likelihood of type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular disease can all be programmed by your exposures in your environment in your fetal period.”

Babies who are exposed to drugs and alcohol before birth are more likely to be born to mothers who themselves have suffered significant childhood trauma, Dr Tottman said.

One of her aims is to remove the stigma surrounding mothers who have used drugs or alcohol during their pregnancy seeking healthcare for the betterment of the child and themselves.

“Drug use in pregnancy is one of those things that is very hard to talk about and

there’s a lot of stigma and a lot of shame around it,” Dr Tottman said.

“We recognise that many of the women who come to us, have had really difficult starts themselves. Perhaps their first thousand days weren’t well supported. Perhaps they were exposed to drugs and alcohol before birth and didn’t get the support that we are now trying to give the next generation.

“Part of doing this is to let people know that there is help out there and you just need to reach out.”

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Dr Tottman and her team monitor the children enrolled in the program to ensure they are meeting their developmental milestones.

“They are at risk of having difficulties with learning motor skills or learning how to sit, learning how to walk and difficulties with communication skills in the first two years after they’re born,” she said. “So we monitor children’s developments and make sure that they are meeting their developmental milestones on time and that’s important to do repeatedly through the first couple of years.

“What you’re doing at four months or six months is very different to what you’re doing at 18 months or 24 months. So it’s important that you capture all of those time points.

“But then we are intervening with developmental physiotherapy, with help with social work support, with finding speech therapy for infants who are showing us that they are having trouble meeting their milestones.

“And we know from other cohorts of high risk children that early intervention and helping children to get back on track and to reach their milestones is one of the most important things you can do for children’s long term outcome.”

Previously, the clinic couldn’t follow children for the full two years of care due to a lack of funding. However, philanthropic support has been put together to enhance the existing state-funded service, with the Women’s Alcohol and Drug Service (WADS) with North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) funding the first year.

Women can self-refer to the Royal Women’s Hospital’s Women’s Alcohol and Drug Service or they can be referred via their GP, midwife or alcohol and drug counselling services.

Royal Women’s Hospital neonatologist Dr Anna Tottman. (Supplied)

The Hogan Home Design The Shores

Car offers drive variety

By Eddie Russell

Melton Toyota has contributed an exclusive vehicle to children’s charity Variety to help raise money for sick kids.

From August 16–24, a convoy of more than 70 themed vintage cars will make the pilgrimage from Swan Hill to Airlie Beach as part of the Variety Vic Bash.

Variety Vic motoring events manager Scott Watson said the “colourful carnival” would take on the “reddest and roughest roads” in Australia.

And now they will do it with a Toyota Tundra, a pick up truck which is yet to be released on the Australian market.

MrWatsonsaidthecarwillbeusedtocarry guitars, amps, stands, and for important rest and recreation.

“We have 20 support vehicles and this particularoneisbeingusedtotakeequipment for our resident muso who entertains us along the route,” he said.

The flagship fundraising event helps kids living with a disability, illness, or disadvantage.

The money goes towards buying essential items for affected children and their families who desperately need support, said Mr Watson.

“For whatever reason, they are unable to access things like services, medical devices, and education, so we fill those gaps.”

Donations are open until the penultimate night of the event on August 23.

“Obviously every cent makes a difference to what we can provide for the kids so we encourage people to pick a car they love and give some support,” said Mr Watson.

Melton Toyota principal dealer Grant Harrison said the Tundra was an “absolute

chariot”thatwasperfectforthegruellingtrip.

“I’ve driven it many times myself through Wombat State Forest and Lerderderg State Forest and it’s a flawless car,” he said.

“These guys are spoiled… it’s comfortable, efficient, and powerful.”

Mr Harrison said the outcome was simple.

“If we can help support Variety, we can help the young kids.”

“They’re the ones coming into the world –not us old people. We don’t need as much as these kids.”

Melton Toyota is also a long-time sponsor for the ’Apollo 11’ car in the Variety Bash, which is driven by a group of mates from Bacchus Marsh.

Donate: https://fundraise.variety.org.au/ event/bash/home

Nominate now

Nominations are now open for the 2024 Victorian Multicultural Awards for Excellence. The awards, which are in their 23rd year, recognise the efforts of Victorians who promote cultural diversity, inclusion, and community harmony.

There are 14 categories covering the Arts,Business&Employment,Emergency Services, Mental Health & Wellbeing, Sport,YouthLeadership,theMulticultural Honour Roll and the Premier’s Award for Community Harmony. Melton MP Steve McGhie said Melton was better off for the work of its multicultural organisations, groups, and leaders.

“Oursuccessasastateisindebtedtothe extraordinarycontributionsofourdiverse communities,” he said.

“These awards pay tribute to those who make our state such a vibrant and welcoming place to live.”

Victorian Multicultural Commission chairperson Vivienne Nguyen said the awards were an important way to acknowledge the tireless efforts and encouraged people to nominate their unsung heroes.

“The VMC believes in showcasing the incredible contributions of our multicultural communities whose work helps shape and foster the harmony that is necessary for all to thrive,” she said.

“This not only recognises exceptional contributions – it also helps all Victorians to understand who we are and what we bring to Victoria.”

Paid and voluntary workers are both eligible for the awards. Nominations close at 11.59pm on September 8.

Details: multiculturalcommission.vic.gov. au/multicultural-awards-for-excellence

Grant to help young leaders

Caroline Springs’ Rotary club is among the community organisations and charities across Melbourne’s north-west to share in $90,000 from the Tobin Brothers.

The Rotary club received $1000 for its Rotary Youth Leadership Award, a leadership experienceforlocalyouthstobuildconnections and learn new skills.

District youth chair Dr Nivedita Nagarale spoke on radio station Magic 1278 and said the donation would go towards an initiative that invested in young people in the community.

“It’s an internationally run program by Rotary clubs all over the world. Our club is

sponsoring a candidate to help develop their leadership qualities and strengthen their personal development,” Dr Nagarale said.

Caroline Springs president Ronald Moss said the generosity of Tobin Brothers was a heart warming gesture which was greatly appreciated.

“Theywantedtogivebacktolocalcommunity volunteers and schools by recognising the amazing work they do,” he said.

Foodbank St Albans, St Albans Barefoot BowlsClub,StevensvillePrimarySchoolandSt Albans Secondary College were also recipients of the donation in the Brimbank area.

Representatives from Tobin Brothers and Rotary Caroline Springs. (Supplied)

Grant Harrison hands over the Tundra to Scott Watson at the Melton Toyota dealership (Eddie Russell)

Winter fun in the west

Melbourne’s west is set for a vibrant August, offeringexcitingeventsfromarts,culture,food and wine to family fun.

Wine lovers can indulge themselves in the exclusive self-guided Urban Wine Wall on the streets and laneways of Footscray and Seddon on Saturday, August 31.

Choose your own adventure as you and your friends move from venue to venue tasting delicious wines thanks to an incredible line-up of winemakers. A fun and unique wine-tasting experience not to be missed

There are plenty of art events for its enthusiasts to enjoy throughout the month.

Show Your Westside: Art Prize and Exhibition returns to Footscray to celebrate and highlight artwork from local artists under the theme ’Westside Stories’. The exhibition

Melton City Council postal election

Vote by post this October

Ballot packs will be mailed to voters enrolled in the Melton City Council general election from Monday 7 October. Complete and return your ballot material ASAP. Ballot material must be in the mail or delivered to the election manager by 6 pm on Friday 25 October

If you will be away

If you will be away when ballot packs are mailed, or your address has changed since Wednesday 7 August, you can request for your ballot pack to be redirected by completing the online redirection form at vec.vic.gov.au/redirections, or call 131 832.

Requests for redirection must be received by 5 pm on Monday 9 September.

Large print and braille ballot papers

Large print or braille ballot papers are available for voters who are blind or have low vision – please register by 5 pm Tuesday 10 September. To register, call 03 8620 1314 during business hours.

Early votes

If you will be away during the voting period (7 – 25 October), you can go to your local election office to vote in person, from 10 am on Wednesday 18 September.

The Melton City Council election office is at: 16 - 18 Palmerston Street Melton

is on display at Footscray Community Centre until August 30.

Art lovers can also view the Chinese Restaurant Playground exhibition, also at the Footscray Community Centre, until September 15. The exhibition by Steffie Yee often-overlooked stories of Chinese migrants in Australia.

Newport’s The Substation will be home to a challengingnewworkfromtheaward-winning Rawcus ensemble from August 20-24. Interior is a visual and aural spectacle about being human.

At the end of the month, the Eynesbury communitymarketwillreturntotown,offering a agreatrangeoffoodtrucksandqualitystalls.

It’s on August 25, from 9am to 2pm, at 479 Eynesbury Road. Dogs are welcome.

How to nominate as a candidate

To nominate as a candidate, you must:

• be an Australian citizen and enrolled on the voters roll for Melton City Council AND

• be eligible to become a councillor should you be elected AND

• have completed the mandatory candidate training before lodging your nomination with the election manager.

To nominate, complete the nomination form and lodge it with the election manager together with the $250 nomination fee. Nomination forms can be lodged by appointment during business hours from Monday 9 September until 12 noon on Tuesday 17 September at the election office. Visit vec.vic.gov.au for more information and to pre-complete your nomination form using the online Candidate Helper. The online Candidate Helper will be available from Tuesday 20 August.

If you use the online Candidate Helper, print your pre-completed form and make an appointment to lodge it with the election manager along with the nomination fee.

Call the election manager from Monday 9 September on 131 832 to make a nomination appointment.

Nominations close 12 noon Tuesday 17 September.

Briefs

Petition closed

The petition to get Mt Atkinson a train station has now closed after being extended until last Friday August 9. Since last reported by Star Weekly, it has gained more than 300 signatures, taking the total number to 5062. The petition will be tabled in Parliament on August 13 by Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch, who is sponsoring the petition.

Health survey

Star Weekly wants to hear from you about the health issues affecting women in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs. Our 16-question Women’s Health Matters survey will help inform our reporting during our 12-month women’s health campaign. The confidential survey will take less than five minutes to complete and can be found by scanning the QR code.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Candidate information sessions

10:30 am Wednesday 4 September at Melton Library, 31 McKenzie Street, Melton

6:30 pm Thursday 5 September at Caroline Springs Library, 193-201 Caroline Springs Boulevard, Caroline Springs

Candidate information kits containing nomination forms and other electoral information will be available online and from the election manager.

State-enrolled voters can register for free VoterAlert SMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au

Diego Pizarro, John Utans, Judy Shelley, Yenny Fervent, Jim Kellam and Sally Walshe AKA ’Lady Mohawk’ get ready for Show Your West Side. (Damjan Janevski) 420221_01

Mayor’s message Cr Kathy Majdlik

I’m pleased to say the City of Melton Learning Festival is back bigger and better than ever. The festival is a seven-day celebration of curiosity, learning and fun at events for people of all ages and abilities.

This is our sixth Learning Festival, and with more than 40 programs at libraries and community centres across the municipality throughout the week there’s something for everyone.

The Melton Learning Festival takes place from 31 August to 7 September. Check out the fun-filled program and book your place at melton.vic.gov.au/ LearningFestival

On a sad note, I was shocked to hear about the sudden passing of former Maribyrnong Mayor, Councillor Sarah Carter.

Cr Carter was a valued member of our Local Government family and will be greatly missed. She was a proud and passionate advocate for her community and the western region.

Cr Carter was the first woman to be elected mayor of Maribyrnong three times and served on the Council since being elected in 2008. The loss of someone who had so much love for her community and the west in general will be deeply felt across our region. She leaves a valued and lasting legacy.

On behalf of the City of Melton, Councillors, Executive Leadership Team and staff at Melton City Council I extend our sincerest condolences to Cr Carter’s family, friends, colleagues at Maribyrnong City Council and the residents whose lives she touched.

You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at Kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.

Coffee cup recycling trial

Melton City Council is launching a trial coffee cup recycling program that aims to stop more than 50,000 paper cups going to landfill and give them a second life.

The two-year trial run in partnership with Simply Cups starts this month and will take place at six Council sites across the City of Melton. Visitors to the Caroline Springs Library, Melton Library and Cobblebank Stadium will also be able to take part in the recycling program.

It is estimated that more than 2 billion paper cups, which could fill 2,250 garbage trucks, are discarded in Australia each year. Disposable paper cups cannot be recycled via standard kerbside recycling as they contain waterproof plastic lining.

However, if collected and processed at specialised recycling facilities, the cups can be converted to make building material, roads and lightweight concrete products.

All types of paper cups including coffee cups, takeaway soft drink cups, ice cream cups and compostable/biodegradable cups will be accepted during the trial.

Visit melton.vic.gov.au/ CoffeeCupRecycling

Coburn Ward with Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

Melton City Council recently adopted its 2024/25 budget, centred around a $223.1 million capital works program.

The budget focusses on the services, programs and infrastructure that are critical to building a liveable and connected community including crucial upgrades to our roads to ease congestion and help to improve safety.

Two big commitments in Council’s budget were $11.9 million to complete the upgrade of Bulmans Road in Melton West and $6.2 million for the Stage 2 upgrade of Troups Road

South in Mount Cottrell. Others include upgrades to Rees Road and modifying the intersection at Station Road and Richard Road.

It was great to see the clubs that call Melton Recreation Reserve home move into their new pavilion. The new pavilion will be a hub for local football, netball, and cricket clubs and a great place to watch the action on the ground.

Female friendly changerooms, umpires’ rooms, community social and meeting space, a kitchen and a kiosk are included in the new building.

I’d like to congratulate the 27 outstanding local businesses named

$100 Gift vouchers up for grabs

Book Week is coming - and it’s not just for kids. To celebrate Book Week 2024, we’re inviting all young people aged 12 to 18 to bring your favourite books to life.

Bookface is a viral sensation where you choose a book and strategically align your face, or another part of your body, to blend in with the cover. Two $100 gift vouchers are up for grabs for the most creative entries.

The Melton City Libraries Bookface competition is open from Saturday 17 August until midnight, Friday 30 August 2024.

as finalists in the 2024 City of Melton Business Excellence Awards. The annual awards recognise and reward the fantastic contributions local businesses make to our diverse City. Good luck at the awards evening on 4 September.

If there is anything you want me to raise at Council meetings, please contact me by phone or email.

Feel free to contact me regarding Coburn Ward or Council related issues on 0499 801 183; email: ashleigh.vandenberg@melton.vic. gov.au or like my Facebook page @crvandenberg

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

Funds for environmental groups

By Eddie Russell

The future is looking green for Moorabool as 14 environmental volunteering groups received funding from Melbourne Water as part of Landcare Week.

The money will help organisations in the areadeliverarangeofcommunityprogramsto protect and restore the natural environment.

The groups could apply for two grants – one of up to $20,000 to deliver on-ground works to landscapes or $500 to cover administrative costs.

Blackwood and Barry’s Reef Landcare Group received $10,400 to help stop the

spread of the English holly as part of The Holly Project.

Secretary Diana Dawson said the invasive species was threatening the native landscape ofWombatStateForestandsurroundingareas.

“It is becoming a transformer weed – if left to keep expanding its range, it will transform the structure of our bushland,” she said.

“Once established, holly can grow to large trees which are difficult and expensive to remove.”

Tackling the issue was a cooperative effort, said Ms Dawson.

“Our group will be using the funds to work with others in and adjacent to the Wombat

Dogs offer assistance

Assistance dogs mean a lot to those who rely on the help of their furry friends.

AndthisisnoexceptionforMark*,aMelton resident and former police officer who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Mark has taken his five-year-old labrador Molly to Melton Assistance Dogs for more than three years , something which he said has not only helped him with his condition but engage with the world again.

“I wouldn’t be getting out as much as I do. It gets you back into society – a lot of blokes with PTSD tend to stay home and that’s it,” he said.

Reflecting on International Assistance Dog Week, Mark said Molly had a number of ways to help him navigate the symptoms of his condition.

“If I’m having nightmares, she’ll jump on the bed and wake me up, or if I’m getting

aggro she’ll stand between or in front of me,” he said.

“She can sense when I am [distressed] and put her head on my knee.”

There are a variety of reasons why people need assistance dogs, said Mark.

“There are a couple of ex-army and ex-police but… there’s quite a few [people] when you get down to it.”

Whatever the reason, the dogs are specifically trained to deal with their owner’s unique medical needs.

“Some can tell if you are about to have a fit or heart attack, alert you before it happens and get you to sit down before you pass out,” said Mark.

International Assistance Dog Week is designed to honour service dogs and their trainers who improve lives on a daily basis.

*Not his real name.

Forest to build our knowledge about holly.

“We will document case studies of how local land managers are tackling holly and hold field days so landholders can come along and share ideas on how to manage holly.”

Ms Dawson said despite their charming nature, the plants were damaging and that Moorabool residents could help reduce their impact.

“While the holly berries look pretty and remind you of festivity… it is best to remove them and replace them with non-invasives,” she said.

“Carefully pulling holly seedlings out at your place when the ground is damp is a very

good way to assist.”

Moorabool Landcare Network, Moorabool Catchment Landcare Group, and Upper Williamsons Creek Landcare Group all receivedmorethan$17,000fortheirinitiatives. The other 10 organisations were allocated $500 for management.

Melbourne Water regional landcare coordinator Barry Kennedy said it was encouraging to see the work of environmental volunteers across Victoria.

“All the staff at Melbourne Water appreciate the work of our community groups along with neighbours and friends to change our world for the better, one project at a time.”

Meta’s claims about Facebook revealed as fake news

In the first half of 2024, one-third of Australians accessed Facebook for news, a new study reveals.

The finding contradicts Meta’s long-standing assertion that news content is a minor part of the Facebook experience for most Australian users.

Meta has previously used this claim to justify its decision to abandon commercial agreements with local publishers.

The implications of this are significant for the local journalism landscape, especially for the more than 230 newspapers who are part of Country Press Australia, the association representing the interests of regional and rural newspapers across the country.

The research emphasises the essential role that news media plays in Australia, particularly how regional newspapers contribute to offering balanced and precise news coverage.

More than 40 per cent of Australians cited news access as a key motivator for their daily social media activity, with this tendency more noticeable among Gen Z and millennials at 60 per cent and 53 per cent, respectively.

Country Press Australia president Andrew Schreyer said there were significant industry challenges ahead, and forecast potential closures of up to 50 member outlets as current agreementsundertheNewsMediaBargaining Code with Meta near their expiration.

The study also found that while overall Facebook usage is waning, half of the Australians still turn to social media for news, with 25 per cent using it as their primary news source.

These findings starkly contradict Meta’s position that news is a minimal component of the content seen by Australians on its platforms, which Meta claimed represents less than three per cent of the total.

This study, initiated by News Corp and conducted by Dynata, refutes those statements. This research release aligns with the media

industry’s wait on the Albanese government’s decision regarding Meta’s obligations under the News Media Bargaining Code, which might compel Meta to negotiate compensation for content with news providers. Meta has threatened to block Australian news content should these costs be enforced.

In an article published in The Australian on Monday, News Corp Australasia executive chairman Michael Miller expressed concerns over Meta’s threats to remove news content, potentially replacing it with less reliable sources. He also criticised Meta for its lack of accountability.

The study shows strong public support for social media responsibility, with 85 per

cent of Australians agreeing that platforms should prevent the spread of false or harmful information.

Withouttrustworthyjournalism,66percent believe the societal impact would be negative, anticipating increases in misinformation and decreased media diversity.

MrMillerhighlightedthesignificantimpact these findings have on public understanding and the obligations of large tech companies, criticising Meta for avoiding transparency.

This analysis of 2,500 Australians confirms the integral role of social media in their news consumption habits, countering Meta’s underestimations of news relevance on its platform, and exposing the misleading nature of its claims.

Mr Schreyer further highlighted the implications for democracy.

“Democracy in areas without local news is lost. Who is going to stand up to a council decision that doesn’t meet the pub test? Who is going to shine a light on issues when people don’t have a big enough voice to get their message out?

“The research underscores the vital role that regional newspapers play in providing accurate and diverse perspectives.

“As Australians show a growing dissatisfaction with Meta, the study reaffirms the importance of maintaining a strong and independent local press to ensure accountability and transparency within communities.”

Country Press Association president Andrew Schreyer.

Molly walks with her owner in Hannah Watts Park. (Damjan Janevski) 423971_01

300 for McGuane

Keilor coach Mick McGuane is set to bring up his 300th game as senior coach in the Essendon District Football League, becoming the first senior coach to do so at one club. Tara Murray chats with McGuane and a couple of people he has impacted along the way at the Blues.

Mick McGuane might be the senior coach of Keilor, but it’s not unusual for him to be watching the thirds, the under-18s or the juniors every weekend.

While it might not seem important, for McGuane it’s part of what has made Keilor so great for such a long period of time.

McGuane’s love of football goes back to when he was a kid.

“My dad was coach at Sebastopol and I was the mascot,” he said. “I could not wait to play and get muddy.

“I’ve seen a lot of kids who are six or seven with their footballs wanting to do the same thing. That is what this club is about.”

Many of the players McGuane has watched in the past 17 years have been among the 219 players to play senior football under him.

‘‘ He puts a spin on things in a way that motivates players ... He has the gift of the gab ’’ - Nick O’Kearney

OnSaturday,August17,McGuanewillcoach his 300th senior game for the Blues.

McGuane is more focused on the team and the club than what he has achieved.

His AFL playing record speaks for itself and he had coaching success at Burnie and Gisborne before he joined the Blues.

“It is something I didn’t aim at,” McGuane said before his milestone game. “I didn’t look too far ahead when I started.

“I got told that 11 players from the preliminary final team had left and it was a late appointment and the club was looking to navigate relegation for the first time.

“Itookthatpersonallyandsomethingtoaim for … The rest is history and we went on to win the first premiership.”

McGuane said his love for winning keeps him competitive and looking for ways to improve.

He has had to reinvent himself and the club on a number of occasions.

McGuane’s interest in the junior program is not just as a supporter. He has coached a number of age groups along the years.

“Developing your junior program leads to stability and sustainability which is what you want,” he said. “I’m invested in that and you personally want to evolve them as young people and players.

“Iputmyhanduptocoach.Ihaveaninvested interest with my son as well.

“The club is in good shape and you know who is who that is coming through.”

In 2012, McGuane coached the club’s under-16 team to a premiership.

Five of those players ended up on AFL lists. Jay White, who was in the side, played his 300th game for the Blues recently.

Star midfielder Nick O’Kearney was one of the players in the under-16 team HewasoneofthosemanykidsthatMcGuane watched from the side lines.

“He started to come and watch and offer a little bit of advice and the relationship has grown the longer I was at the footy club,” O’Kearney said.

“The guidance and the relationship grew when I started to transition into seniors. The summer of 2011 I started training with the seniors.

“I got some confidence the more sessions I did and come the early part of the year he said he wanted to sit down with dad and I.

“He asked if I wanted to play a couple of practice matches and gain some experience. Come a couple of weeks out from round one, he floated that he thought I would be up for round one.

“I made my debut under Mick at 15.”

O’Kearney didn’t play many games under McGuane at that stage as bigger things were on the horizon. He was eventually taken by St Kilda in the rookie draft.

When O’Kearney’s AFL dream didn’t work out, he didn’t hesitate to come back to play under McGuane at Keilor.

O’Kearney said McGuane was the best coach he’s ever had.

“His knowledge,” he said. “He puts a spin on things in a way that motivates players as well.

“He has the gift of the gab and being able to adapt. I’ve experienced that for a long time.

“He takes such a vested interest in footy and your personal life.

“It was tough for a while and I wanted to get my love back for the game and I got that at Keilor.

“When I’ve had tough times especially with my neck, he was the first person at my place to offer support.

“I’m thankful for him and hopefully we can win a couple more flags together. I wouldn’t be surprised if he coaches for another 10 to 15 years.”

Current Keilor president Ray Sheridan said McGuane’spreparationforgamesissomething most people wouldn’t realise.

“I thought I knew a lot about football and Mick made me realise how much I didn’t know,” he said.

He said it is quite remarkable that McGuane has reached this milestone, with coaching a winning business.

The club will hold a function after the game, which happens to be against Greenvale, the side McGuane coached his first game against.

Alotofformerplayersareexpectedtoattend.

“He loves game day,” Sheridan said. “He’s a good winner and also a good loser.

“He always sees positives out of losing as well.”

Looking back at his coaching career, McGuane said it was hard to pick a favourite game, with four premierships among the mix.

The first in 2008 he told the then captain Lee Fraser after losing the second semi final that he believed they could win the premiership – and they did.

After a few lean years, the Blues won in 2016 with a different group. Then there’s the perfect seasons of 2019 and 2023.

In terms of the best players he’s coached, there’s a few standouts.

“I always felt like Dean Galea was clearly the best forward,” he said. “Jarrod Garth was a ripper as well.

“Talking mids, any of Leigh Fraser, Ricky Marcy, Corey Ellis, Nick O’Kearney, Dylan Joyce, those types.

“Andrew Browne is the clear standout in the ruck, Down back Micka James was a stalwart.

“Jayden Laverde is still in the AFL system. Then you have Curtis Taylor, who is at North Melbourne, who gave us another avenue to goal in 2016.”

McGuane has already signed on for next year.

While the spotlight is on him this week, he’s focused on the bigger task at hand.

TheBluessitatopthepremierdivisionladder and are red hot premiership favourites.

“To be 35 games undefeated [before the match with Airport West] it’s a credit to the club and people involved.

“We are the hunted out there, people want our scalp.”

The club rooms will be open until late on Saturday for celebrations.

Main: Mick McGuane in action this year. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 422892_25

Above, top: Dylan Joyce and Mick McGuane with the 2016 premiership cup. (Damian Visentini)

Above: Mick McGuane in 2009. (Emily Lane)

Police urge calm amid shootings

By Gerald Lynch

After two shootings in as many days, Melbourne’s north-west police are out to alleviate concern.

LateonFriday,August2,policewerealerted to a fatal shooting in Burnside Heights. Emergency services were called to reports of a man with a gunshot wound outside a property on Tenterfield Drive about 9.10pm. The victim, a 34-year-old from Wallan, died at the scene.

Then, on Sunday, August 4, about 5.30am, a man was driven to a hospital with a gunshot

wound after being involved in a “targeted” attack in Melbourne’s north-west.

The man presented with “non-lifethreatening injuries”, according to Victoria Police.

It is believed he was shot on Evergreen Avenue in Albanvale.

North-West metro division three acting superintendent Andrew Markakis said both shootings are believed to be targeted attacks, although believed to be isolated incidents and unrelated to each other.

“We are undertaking proactive patrols right across Brimbank and Melton with a very high

level of saturation of police presence, through Operation Cavalcade,” he said.

“Resources drawn from specialist support areas such as police horses walking down the streets of where incidents have occurred to bolster police presence, mitigate community harm, and provide reassurance.”

After strong trial runs of Operation Cavalcade in the months of May and July, the operation will continue to run in Brimbank and Melton, in attempts to keep residents as safe as possible.

“Of course we can’t stop every offence … however, we will throw everything we have

Couple offers cuddles amid grief

Families grieving the death of a baby will have access to a cuddle cot at Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital, thanks to the generosity of Katelyn and Joel Hughes.

On what was meant to be the happiest day of Katelyn and Joel’s lives; the due date of their first child, the couple spent Wednesday, August 7 turning personal tragedy into an opportunity to help others.

Baby Fletcher’s heart stopped beating three months ago, in his mother Katelyn’s womb. He was born sleeping on May 2, at a gestation of 26 weeks and one day.

The only solace came in the form of their hospital’s ‘cuddle cot’, which is a specially designed cooling cot that allows families to

spend extra time with their baby.

“Because of this cuddle cot, which had been donated by another family, we were able to spend almost three full days with our baby boy,” Katelyn said.

“It meant we had time to invite our families in to meet our son. No time would ever have been enough, but we are so grateful we could spend this time with Fletcher and our family, making special memories before saying goodbye.”

After Fletcher’s passing, Katelyn and Joel began raising money for Bears of Hope, an organisation that supports families who have lost a baby.

Their initial aim was to raise $6500 –

enough to give one hospital one cuddle cot, but when they hit their target in less than 24 hours, the donations kept pouring in until they had enough to buy two.

They donated one to a Geelong hospital and the other was given to Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital.

Western Health newborn services nurse unit manager Michelle Ryan said the Hughes family’s generosity was inspiring.

“Katelyn and Joel have been able to turn their tragic loss into something really positive for other families going through what they’ve been through,” she said.

“They are giving other families that most precious gift – time with their babies.”

at it to mitigate harm to the community,” Mr Markakis said.

“At the moment we are exploring all the leads we have in the hope that we can make imminent arrests.”

A teenager was also stabbed with a machete in Caroline Springs on Thursday, August 1, at the CS Square Shopping Centre, about 5.15pm.

He was rushed by ambulance to Royal Melbourne Hospital with life-threatening injuries to his hands, head and torso.

Mr Markakis said the incident was also separate from the shootings.

Petition slows to a halt

Moorabool council has rejected a petition calling for the speed limit on Ballan-Egerton Road to be reduced.

The petition, which received 14 signatures, requested a new speed limit of 60 to 70 km/h be implemented on the section of Ballan-Egerton Road near Devlins Road.

The existing limit is 80 km/h which Mount Egerton residents living directly off or near the road said was “unsafe”. It was stated in the petition that “speeding drivers and a crest at Devlins Road” caused a “safety hazard for residents entering and exiting their properties”.

More than 650 vehicles travel on the road every day.

Areviewofthecurrentspeedlimitwas conducted in accordance with VicRoads guidelines and it was found that the zoning of the road was appropriate. The Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), which has the authority to approve and deny speed change requests, did not support the reduction.

In a statement to council, the DTP said“Minimalaccesspointsontheroad, current environmental conditions, little to no pedestrian activity, and no crash history supports the current speed limit of 80km/h”.

There have been no crashes reported around this location in the last five years.

Council has since installed a curve warning sign and a 60km/h speed advisory sign before the bend approaching from Ballan.

Joel and Katelyn Hughes with the cuddle cot they have donated to Western Health. (Supplied)

Mini Olympians strut their stuff

While the Games were under way in France lastweek,pupilsatKingsParkPrimarySchool hosted their own version of the Olympics.

The school Olympics, which took place on Friday, August 9, included a range of events such as three-legged races, rubber chicken relays, and tug-of-war.

Parents and community members were then invited to attend the ‘closing ceremony’ which included medal presentations and a flag-bearing parade.

Classes from each year level were given a country to ‘represent’.

Teacher Lucy Bull said the buy-in from the kids reflected the positive mindset they had to education.

“They’ve been researching their countries, learning words and numbers in the languages of countries they have no real connection to,” she said.

Ms Bull said the engagement with the community was “really exciting” for the school, which only opened at the start of 2023.

“We have doubled in size this year with all the new families coming into the community and events like this help bring us together,” she said.

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Donating to save lives

Residents of Melton rolled up their sleeves to provide life-saving support last week.

OnMonday,August5,apopupblooddonor centre was set up at Melton Community Hall to save locals having to travel to the nearest Lifeblood centre in Airport West.

The pop-up centre will be in Melton until Friday, August 16, and is set to make a return in November.

One blood donation can save up to three lives but is needed every 18 seconds or 33,000 times a week.

Lifeblood spokesperson Emily Granland congratulated those who had already donated and urged more locals to get involved.

“The need for blood does not stop, so we’d like to thank our local donors in Melton for rolling up a sleeve to donate blood and encourage others in the community to follow their lead. Every donation can make a life-changing difference to patients in need,”

she said.

Ms Granland said the donations would go to those who needed it the most and was often used in dire situations.

“Blood is used to treat people with cancer and blood disorders, women giving birth and patients in surgery. In the event of a serious trauma event or emergency, up to 100 blood donations may be needed to save just one life.” Melton is also home to Australia’s top active donor, Paul Jenkins.

“He has reached an incredible 880 blood and plasma donations. While that figure is not possible for everyone, the good news is every single donation counts,” said Ms Granland.

There are more than 160 appointments left for the final three days of the pop up centre from August 13 to 16.

Bookings: https://my.donateblood.com.au/ app/appointments/donationtype

Eddie Russell

Donor Mark Young and nurse Sepi Halalupe at the donor centre. (Damjan Janevski) 423866_05

Team Samoa displayed their flag with pride during the parade at the end of the day (Pictures courtesy Lucy Bull)

Kids representing Ukraine were loud and proud in their yellow and blue colours.

Classes gathered in the school hall for the ‘closing ceremony’ to celebrate the festivities.

The three-legged race was a test of coordination and trust.

A rare display of sun came just in time for the outdoor events.

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 UK broadcaster (1,1,1)

3 Surplus (11)

9 Products of a calculator (7)

10 Seraphic (7)

11 Hormonal disease (8)

12 Brand (6)

14 Belonging to him (3)

15 Unkempt (11)

17 Travel review site (4,7)

19 A metal (3)

20 People of the Czech Republic (6)

21 Unblemished (8)

24 Treachery (7)

25 Japanese paper art form (7)

26 Heavy construction vehicles (11)

27 Vapour (3)

or foreign

No

nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

DOWN

1 (Of the eyes) inflamed to redness (9)

2 Pirate’s sword (7)

3 Food dressing (5)

4 Desiring ownership (10)

5 US politician, Paul – (4)

6 Astronomical unit of distance (5-4)

7 Forbidden by law (7)

8 Type of agave (5)

13 Daughter of Zeus (10)

15 1974 Charles Bronson film (5,4)

16 Ancestral lines (9)

18 Wrong (2,5)

19 Indonesian sea cucumber dish (7)

20 Thicket (5)

22 Counterparts (5)

23 Keyboard error (4)

1 Which country produces the most wine?

2 What is the name of the media production company founded by Reese Witherspoon (pictured) in 2016? 3 Which Olivia Rodrigo song was the most streamed on Spotify in 2021?

Astigmatism affects what body part?

5 The Shinano River is the longest and widest river of which country? 6 Sandra Bullock

No.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

Friends of Melton Botanic Garden

This month’s meeting on August 14 will feature guest speaker Bec Light from BeeResponsible. The topic is honey bees and their sustainability - highlighting what people can do. BeeResponsible is in Diggers Rest. Honey and related products will be available to purchase at the meeting. Meetings are at Botanica Springs Community Centre, 249 Clarkes Road, Brookfield. Raffle tickets are $1. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own cup/mug. Supper is provided. Please email or call to let organisers know you are attending so they can put out enough chairs.

■ 9743 3819

Moonlite Theatre

Moonlite Theatre will be holding auditions for its upcoming performance of Double Trouble a two-play comedy show, with auditions by appointment to be held at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church Hall, 19 Gisborne Road, Bacchus Marsh on Tuesday, August 13 at 7pm, Thursday, August 15 at 7pm and Saturday, August 17 at 1pm. To arrange an appointment, please email. Various roles are available for 18+. For role descriptions, please visit https://www. facebook.com/moonlitetheatre and https:// vdl.org.au/vdl-audition/double-trouble/ ■ moonlitetheatre3340@gmail.com

Melton South Community Centre

• Melton South Community Centre offers a range of CPR & First Aid courses, with the next round scheduled for Saturday, August 31. For more information, including times, costs and courses available, call the centre.

• Discover how to create your own stunning candles at home in Melton South Community Centre’s upcoming Soy Candles & Melts workshop. Scheduled for Monday, August 19, this one-day workshop (10am-12.30pm) will teach you all the tips and tricks, as well as give you an opportunity to purchase candles and equipment. Everything is provided; each student will take home two candles and a pack of wax melts. Cost: $90/$85 concession; call for inquiries and enrolments.

• Melton South Community Centre’s term three program is available now and all courses are open for enrolments. Get the program at meltonsouth.org.au or pick up a copy at the centre, located at 41 Exford Road, Melton South.

■ 9747 8576

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

Community band

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

■ Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582

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

■ Dianne, 9743 7446

Fishing club

Didyabringyarodalong Angling Club of Melton and Bacchus Marsh is a fishing club that welcomes and encourages people of all ages, genders and fishing abilities to partake in enjoying the outdoors in a

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Elliot, 5, who has raised $700 for cancer council by cutting his hair and donating it. (Damjan Janevski) 424118_01

relaxing and friendly environment. The club holds monthly fishing competitions at various locations, fresh and saltwater. New members are most welcome. Upcoming events will be listed on this page.

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

Lights of Wisdom

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

■ mgilsant9@gmail.com

Seniors’ lunch

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

■ Pamela, pcostello46@hotmail.com

Cancer Support Group

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

■ Grenville, 0412 741 865

Bacchus Marsh CWA

Do you enjoy crafting, baking, day trips, local dining, market stalls, fundraising or supporting NFP organisations? That’s just some of the things that the ladies do within the branch. From time to time they host guest speakers, themed morning/afternoon teas and special occasions. Our delicious jams, pickles, relishes, toys, handmade and wearable items are available for sale, as

well as our cookbook. They are open to the public Mon-Wed 9am-noon, enjoy morning tea, a Devonshire Tea or hot soup during these colder months. They are based in the Darley Community & Civic Hub, Halletts Way (next to childcare centre) (enter from Wittick St). Catering for private events is available by request. Branch Meetings are held every second Thursday of the month and Craft day is every fourth Thursday of the month at the Hub from 10am -12pm. New and potential members are welcome to attend events.

■ bacchus.cwa@gmail.com

Chatty Cafe Melton

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

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

Women’s Support Group

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

■ https://ow.ly/QVwJ50Q5g42

Caroline Springs Rotary

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

■ rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

The Gap on Graham

The Gap provides a place for Melton youth to hang out, socialise, play games and learn new skills. The centre holds a night for girls aged 10 to 18 years, at 5 Graham Street, Melton, on Wednesday evenings. There is also a drop-in night for anyone aged 12 to 25 years old.

■ Val, 0414 769 605

Melton Men’s Group

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

Take weight off naturally

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

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

Parkinson’s support group

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

■ Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Bridge Club

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

■ Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Melton Friendship Group

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

■ 0406 493 734

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club

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

■ Ann, 0425 705 150

Students prepare for an Odyssey

By Anne Parisianne

Community members can watch Bayside P-12 College students’ latest show, The Odyssey, at Altona City Theatre this August.

The performance will tell the story of King Odysseus’ journey home after the Trojan War.

Set against the backdrop of the ancient Mediterranean, the story follows Odysseus as he battles monsters and the god Poseidon to return to his homeland, Ithaca, and reunite with his wife and son.

Volunteer performing arts technical

advisor Nicholas McQuade said the students collaborated on the story and contributed their own ideas to the stage production.

The script is not solely written by the staff, as the students have actively participated in shaping what they want to see on stage, he added.

“They’ve crafted the story along the journey, which, you know, not many other schools get that opportunity,“ McQuade said.

“I think it encouraged them to be creative.“

About 70 students from years 7 to 12 will perform in the show.

“They’ve been spending hours after school tirelessly rehearsing, practising and making sure that they get the details right,“ McQuade said.

The Altona City Theatre will host three performances at 7pm on Wednesday, August 21,Thursday,August22,andFriday,August23.

Details: bayside.vic.edu.au/the-odyssey

the exhibition. (Supplied)

Students’ hard work goes on show

The artworks of St Albans Secondary College VCE Students are set to shine in an exhibition at Fortyfive Downstairs gallery.

St Albans Secondary College is a multicultural school with over 53 cultures represented.

Students bring their own unique cultural perspective and aesthetic to the creation of works.

When students at St Albans Secondary College engage in the creative process there are a range of intercultural experiences that influence the resulting works.

This then enables students to appreciate different cultural values and perspectives.

Head of visual and performing arts Nick D’Aglas said he was proud of all students and staff who helped to get the exhibition prepared.

“The art staff at this school include the current writer of the VCE Art Making and Exhibiting textbook, Mr Michael Bowden and Miss Della Butler who came to teaching after establishing a career in cultural organisations,” he said.

“The exhibition is a rare glimpse into the potential that is unlocked when we are able to

embrace cultural diversity.

“We have had a longstanding relationship with Fortyfive Downstairs and we were absolutely delighted to be invited, as the first state school, to exhibit in their gallery.”

The works of St Albans Secondary College’s talented VCE art, design and technology students will be on exhibition in Melbourne’s CBD from August 13.

Opening night is from 5pm to 7pm, at the Fortyfive Downstairs Gallery, 45 Flinders Lane. The exhibition will be viewable until August 24.

Bringing Dr Seuss to life at Thomas Carr

Thomas Carr College is preparing to turn heads with its production of ’Seussical’ later this month.

In preparation for the premier on Thursday, August 29, students and staff have been honing their skills three to four times a week after school and on Sundays.

The message of helping a friend, not giving up, the fragile sweetness of the natural world and the pure power of the imagination made Dr Seuss a fitting theme.

Between cast and crew, 45 students across years 7-12 are involved in what is truly a team effort.

Cast, backstage crew, lighting and sound

engineers, makeup artists and animators all work hard to make sure the production runs smoothly.

Gracing the stage is an exciting and frightening adventure, but the cast have taken on the challenge with enthusiasm.

Abby Fernando is playing Cat in the Hat and said she loves performing.

“I love playing different characters and getting out of my comfort zone. I love the feeling of being on stage and hearing the crowd applaud, it’s great,“ she said.

In the spirit of not giving up, the cast have persevered through the trials and tribulations of performing.

An evening of true crime

True crime enthusiasts in the west are in for a treat.

At 6.30pm on Friday August 16, former homicide detective Charlie Bezzina will host a talk about one of themosthigh-profilecasesinVictorian history at Melton Entertainment Park.

The Frankston serial killer, Paul Denyer, murdered three women in the early 1990s before being arrested by police and charged.

MrBezzina,whowasontheinfamous case, said people can look forward to a detailedbreakdownoftheinvestigation not offered anywhere else before.

“The story has been told many a time but here you have an opportunity to hear from the investigator involved as opposed to hearing it through the media,” he said.

“A significant amount of people have read about it over a number of years but here’s a chance to hear about it live.”

A thrilling combination of evidence, interview footage, and key elements of the investigation that led to the charges will all be revealed to illustrate the depth and gravity of the crime, Mr Bezzina said. “The investigator’s point ofview,fromfindingthefirstmurderto finally making the arrest the day after we found one of the victims, will show what is involved in such a significant investigation.”

Morbid curiosity is an undeniable part of human nature and Mr Bezzina will provide an insight into a real world example.

“This is one of those rare moments –and thank goodness it’s rare – that we have a serial killer amongst us,” he said.

Attendees will also have the chance to ask questions about the case and other crime-related matters.

Tickets are $45 and include a meal. For bookings, email enquiries@ mepark.com.au or call 8746 0600 Eddie Russell

Sophie McCavanagh, performing as Maizy Labird, said performing on stage has its challenges.

“I can get a bit of stage fright especially singing in front of people, but I have realised throughout this that everyone is in the same boat, and no one is here to judge you. Everyone is really supportive,“ Sophie said.

Seussical win run across three nights from Thursday, August 29- Saturday, August 31, with a 7pm start time.

Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1231436

Jaidyn Kennedy

Thomas Carr College students Sophie, Abby and Gorgi are starring in the school’s production of Seussical. (Damjan Janevski) 422491_01

Bayside P-12 College students Bia (front), Maia, Amelia, Tom, Hayley, Katrin and Jeremy. (Damjan Janevski) 422449_01

Students with some of the artwork that will be on show in

Party for four googly-eyed giants

It’s party time at Werribee Open Range Zoo following the arrival of four new charismatic ostriches who can bust a move and have the keen desire for a peck.

The 13-year-old curious male big-birds –Thando, Kambuni, Zazu and Orville – were recently introduced to the zoo’s savannah and areturningheadswiththeirtallphysique,dark feathery plumage and handsome big eyes.

Werribee Open Range Zoo savannah keeper Resistance Manyepera said the bustling ostriches are bringing a flurry of hectic energy and enthusiastically exploring their new surroundings.

“These four boys all have different personalities,” Mr Manyepera said.

“Zazu is the dominant male in the group and can often be seen patrolling around the savannah. He also likes to dance too.”

Despite their reputation as somewhat awkward birds, ostriches engage in an impressive dance during courtship. Zazu fluffs up his feathers and spreads his wings wide, creating an impressive visual display. He then performs a series of intricate movements, including bobbing his head, swaying from side to side, and gracefully lifting and lowering his wings.

Mr Manyepera said the ostriches have quite a bit of competition on the Savannah – a home theysharewithsixotherspecies–sotheyoften liketoshowcasetheirconfidencebypuffingout their chests.

“Sometimes they spread their wings out and stand tall to try and look much bigger among the other animals,” Mr Manyepera said.

“This is really interesting because this is the first time these ostriches are seeing giraffe, rhinoceros, zebra and all the other animals we havedownonoursavannah.So,theyareslowly learning how to interact them, understanding which animals they can get close to and which animals they should stay away from.”

Thecommonostrichisnativetosub-Saharan Africa, where they inhabit a range of habitats

including hot savannahs, deserts and open woodlands. It is the world’s largest bird, growing up to 2.7 metres tall and weighing almost150kilograms.Theyarealsotheworld’s fastest flightless bird and the fastest of all two-legged animals on the planet, running at speeds reaching 69 km/h.

Werribee Open Range Zoo is now home to a flock of eight male ostriches. Visitors have the opportunity to see the four new arrivals on a savannahbustourthatrunthroughouttheday and are included with entry.

The ostrich is the world’s largest bird, growing up to 2.7 metres tall and

almost

Four new ostriches are calling Werribee Open Range Zoo home. (Pictures: Supplied)

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 8/10

Safety: 8/10

Practicality: 7/10

Comfort: 8/10

Tech: 8/10

Value: 7/10

Genesis G70 looks ‘big and bold’

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Although it’s been on sale in overseas markets since 2016 and in Australia since 2019, the Genesis brand remains largely unknown here.

During our week-long road test of the Genesis G70 we regularly had to explain that it wastheluxurysub-brandofHyundai,akinthe relationship between Lexus and Toyota.

TheG70isamidsizedsportssedanorstation wagon, the latter variant coming with the rather ostentatious title of Shooting Brake. The name harks back to pre-automotive days and referred to horse-drawn carriages that were used for transporting aristocratic shooting parties and all their gear.

G70 competes against cars like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

The latest upgrade, launched in November 2023 added Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Genesis Connected Services and Over The Air (OTI) software upgrade capability. New generation Electronic Control Suspension provided enhanced ride and handling.

Styling

The exterior of the G70 sedan is big and bold with neat cutouts for the wide-set LED headlights and black air intake vents. In line withthecurrentsedandesigntrendsit’salmost coupe-like in profile.

The MY2024 update added new emblems, redesigned wheels and additional exterior colours.

Interior

The inside of the G70 oozes class and quality with quilted leather seats and door trim.

Front seat space is fine with good leg and headroom but legroom could be compromised if there are tallish rear seat occupants. A tall transmission tunnel effectively limits rear carrying capacity to a pair of adults.

We found front storage to be limited with a small centre console box, two cupholders and smartphone charger in the front not leaving room for other items like key fobs.

Bootcapacityisafairlymodest330litres.The Shooting Brake extends it to 465 litres. Both have space saver wheels beneath the boot floor.

Engines/Transmissions

Genesis G70 comes with the choice of two turbocharged petrol engines, a single-turbo four-cylinder 2.0-litre and twin-turbo 3.3-litre V6.

The 2.0 T-GDi, is a 2.0-litre four with direct fuel injection and a single, twin-scroll turbocharger that produces 179kW of power at 6200 rpm and 353Nm of torque from 1400 to 3500 revs.

The 3.3 T-GDi V6 has a capacity of 3.3 litres withdirectfuelinjectionwithtwinsingle-scroll turbochargers. Peak power of 272kW comes in at 6000 rpm and maximum torque of 510Nm with a nice spread between 1300 and 4500 rpm so most drivers will have the engine at peak torque all the time.

Both engines require 95 RON petrol. Combined fuel consumption is listed at 8.7 litres per 100 kilometres for the 2.0T and 10.2 L/100 km for the 3.3T.

Power is transferred to the road in both models through an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.

Both engines are Euro5 emissions compliant and run on 95 RON unleaded petrol. Fuel consumption is listed at 9.1 litres per 100 kilometres for the 2.0T and 10.4 L/100 km for the 3.3T.

Infotainment

Display is through an embedded 10.25-inch touchscreen that gives access to Radio Data System (RDS), satellite navigation SUNA live traffic updates; DAB+ digital radio; AUX/USB audio input; Bluetooth audio streaming; Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility; Bluetooth phone connectivity; and wireless phone charging.

The 12.3-inch instrument cluster has full LCD display with 30 functions and three

display themes.

There are four USB ports, single USB-A and USB-CinthefrontandtwomoreUSB-Cinthe rear.

Both models get a 15-speaker Lexicon by Harman system with a 660W 11-channel external digital amplifier and Quantum Logic Surround Sound.

Safety

Standard safety features in both Genesis G70 include 10 airbags, advanced ABS brakes with Brake Assist and Multi Collision Braking, Manual Speed Limit Assist, Forward and Reverse Parking Distance Warning and Rear View Parking Guidance,

The standard Genesis Active Safety Control system adds Blind-Spot Collision Warning,

Driver Attention Warning; Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian detectionandlane-changeoncomingfunction; High Beam Assist; Lane Keeping Assist; Rear Cross-TrafficCollisionAvoidanceAssist,Smart CruiseControlwithStopandGofunction,and Surround View Monitor.

Pedestrian safety features add an active bonnet lift system and backup light guide function.

Driving Genesis G70 shares a number of components, includingthe3.3-litreengine,withtherecently discontinued Kia Stinger.

WhiletheG703.3Tisaimedmoreatfamilies than the sportier Stinger. Around town it’s like

driving in a smallish limousine; smooth, quiet and comfortable.

G70 has five drive modes: Smart, Eco, Comfort, Sport and Custom settings. In normal driving it’s at its best in Comfort rather than Sport because it still has plenty of grunt on offer.

On the open road we went for Sport, where the steering is sharp, tight and responsive. There is good low-end acceleration with only a mild hint of turbo lag.

Genesis G70 provides excellent levels of comfort and convenience for the driver with multiple powered seat and lumbar adjustment options including inflatable side bolsters that are automatically raised when the Sport Drive mode is engaged, and just as important for long-distance driving, lowered when reset to Comfort.

Both Genesis models have been tested in local conditions to come up with an Australian-specific chassis, suspension and steering settings.

Fuel consumption in the 3.3T is listed at 10.4 litres per 100 kilometres, we averaged 11.3 L/100km during our test. The 2.0T drops down to 9.0 L/100km.

Summing Up

During our week-long test the Genesis G70 impressed us with its styling and driving pleasure. It’s a solid contender in the affordable premium-car field, although it’s doubtful that potential prestige car buyers see the South Koreans in the same light as the Brits and Germans.

The Genesis brand remains largely unknown in Australia. (Pictures: Supplied)

Locals shine at the Olympics

Here’s a quick look at how the locals faired in the past week at the Olympics.

Artistic swimming

Australia finished ninth overall in the team event with a score of 728.43. The team, which included Wyndham’s Putu Anastasia Kusmawan finished with a team personal best in the team acrobatic routine, scoring 211.97. It was 15.35 points higher than their world cup performance in May. The overall team score was 44.89 higher than their May score, also a team personal best.

Athletics

Linden Hall’s campaign came to a disappointing end in the 1500 metres. A calf injury prevented Hall from reaching her best, finishing eighth in the repechage. Joseph Deng’s men’s 800 metres also finished in the repechage, finishing in fifth spot. Hurdler Celeste Mucci was another not to go past the repechage, finishing sixth in her race in a time of 13 seconds flat.

Basketball

The Australian Opals have returned to the medals for the first time since 2012. After losing to the Americans for a shot at a gold medal, the Opals bounced back against Belgium on Sunday night. Both teams had their moments in the first three quarters, with Belgium leading by one point heading into the final quarter. The Opals took control in the last but couldn’t shake the Belgians. A couple of mistakes from Belgium and Steph Talbot block sealed an 85-81 win for the Opals. Craigieburn’s Ezi Magbegor played the game of her life with 30 points and 13 rebounds. She was named in the second all-star five team. Skipper Tess Madgen, who came up big late, finished with 10 points.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which nation is the current world No.1 team in men’s rugby union?

2. What distinguishes rhythmic gymnastics from other disciplines?

3. In which country are the annual World Bog Snorkelling Championships held?

4. What year did Melbourne last host the Summer

Basketball The Boomers Olympic campaign is over after losing to Serbia in overtime in the quarter finals. The Boomers jumped Serbia early on and led by 24 points in the first half. The Serbians bought the margin back and led at

5. Is the standard Olympic archery target distance 30, 50, 70 or 90 metres?

6. Who scored the winning goal for England in the 1966 soccer World Cup?

7. Which horse won the 1916 Grand National?

8. Who holds the record for the most wins in the World Chess Championship? was cricketer Mike synchronised swimming

Which country was mistakenly introduced as North Korea during the Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony?

Steve Corica is the inaugural head coach of which new A-League soccer club based in New Zealand?

three quarter time with scores level at the end of regular time. A 13-8 overtime period gave theSerbiansthewin,95-90.JoshGiddeyscored 25 points, while Dante Exum scored 12. Taekwondo Leon Sejranovic fell short of his goal of a

13. In what year did the 3x3 Basketball format debut at the Summer Olympics?

14. Ferrari Formula One driver Carlos Sainz Jr. has signed to drive for which team in 2025?

15. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Australian Christopher Burton won a silver medal in which sport?

16. In Round 21 of the AFL, which midfielder played his milestone 400th game against Carlton?

17. Brendon Starc, brother of cricketer Mitchell, competes professionally in which sport?

18. Which Australian swimmer won gold in the women’s 200m freestyle event in Paris?

19. Coach Tony Gustavsson recently parted ways with which Australian women’s national team?

20. Which driver won the Belgian Grand Prix, only to be disqualified after the race due to an underweight car?

21. How many AFL players have played 400 games?

22. And how many have NRL players have played 400 games?

23. By what nickname are Port Adelaide known by in the SANFL competition?

24. 2024 Olympic medallists Grace Brown and Penny Smith both come from Camperdown, which is located in which Australian state?

25. Which Major League Cricket T20 franchise, captained by Steve Smith, won the 2024 tournament?

27. Italian Olympic gymnast Giorgia Villa went viral for being sponsored by makers of what type of food?

28. Who is England’s current One Day International and Twenty20 International captain?

29. Which AFLW team plays its home games at Victoria Park?

30. By what name is the women’s Tour de France race known?

medal in the 80 kilograms men’s event. He lost his round of 16 match 2-0, before losing in the repechage 2-0 to Edi Hrnic. In the 58 kilograms men’s event, Bailey Lewis lost to Mohamed Khalil Jendoubi, 2-0 in the quarter finals.

26. Aussie Jack Robinson is participating in what event at the 2024 Paris Olympics?

Giorgia

Carlos Sainz Jr Jr.

Ezi Magbegor dominated the bronze medal game. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)

Cobras set

up local

Bacchus Marsh put together a strong performance to keep its Ballarat Football League women’s season alive.

The improved Cobras finished the regular season in third spot, just two per cent clear of East Point.

It meant it set up an elimination final with Carisbrook.

Carisbrook finished the regular season in bottom spot with one win that came against the Cobras.

There would be no repeat this time round with the Cobras winning, 11.7 (73)-0.2 (2).

Cobras coach Alan Johnson was pretty happy with the result.

“It’s always nice to get a finals win,” he said. “Finals are a different game and people lift to different levels.

“Teams can connect differently and It’s always a challenge no matter where you finish on the ladder.”

On Sunday, the Cobras took control of the game early to set up the result.

finals derby with Carisbrook

They kicked four goals in each of the first two quarters, while holding Carisbrook scoreless.

After the break they were able to continue to build the lead.

“We played well,” Johnson said. “We contributed as a team and used our run well.

“We played well across the whole ground which helps.”

Jamie-Lee Speakman kicked five goals for the Cobras in a best on ground performance.

Rita Azzopardi and skipper Amy Garofalo kicked two goals each.

Johnson said Speakman was extremely good while Azzopardi, Erin Keenan, Zali Spratling and Zaylie Le Huray were also strong contributors as everyone played a role.

He said it was up there with the best performances they’ve had this season.

The Cobras now have two shots at making their first women’s grand final.

The first is against reigning premiers and local rivals Darley on Sunday.

On Sunday, the Devils inflicted Redan’s first loss of the season in the qualifying final, winning 3.6 (24)-0.9 (9).

Johnson said they were keen for the challenge against the Devils. The last time the two teams played it was the Cobras that won what was believed to be their first win against the Devils.

He said they would look to challenge the Devils the best they can.

“It’s a new week now,” he said. “We’ll take the game in our stride and look to play our best football.

“The girls are pretty excited about it and all you can do is hope.”

In the other elimination final, East Point beat Lake Wendouree. It will face Redan in the other semi final this Sunday.

It was a good weekend for the Cobras with their under-19 youth girls side also winning through to the major semi final.

The minor premiers won 2.7 (19)-2.2 (14).

He has a heavenly run

By John Dunne

Highly promising three-year-old Hes From Heaven is suffering from an embarrassment of TAB Eureka riches in the Jess Tubbs stable. With the Tubbs trained Fighter Command securing a berth in the world’s richest harness race after taking out The Beautide in Hobart last week, Hes From Heaven will be kept for the three-year-old classics after he continued to build a picket fence form line when he took out the Australian Pacing Gold Pace at Melton.

Sent out favourite, Hes From Heaven was given plenty of time to balance up from his outside front row draw before Greg Sugars pressed forward and wrested the lead off American Legacy after a short battle.

Hes From Heaven was allowed more rein by Sugars approaching the home turn and the son of Sweet Lou bounded away to score from Earl Of Pembroke and Younggiftedandblack in a mile rate of 1:54.9 for the 2240 metres.

Sugars said he was taken by the win.

“He’s putting together quite an impressive record overall,” Sugars said. “Tonight he was really opened up in the early stages to work

forward and find the front which is something he hasn’t done before, so it was really pleasing that he handled that and finished off up the straight.

Sugars indicated Hes From Heaven will head towards the feature races in the next couple of seasons.

“He’s certainly got his fair share of ability and being only a three-year-old, there are some pretty decent three-year-old races later on this year so we will be targeting those races,” he said.

“Hopefully he will keep developing as a four-year-oldandwecanaimhimattheserious four-year- old races next season.”

Hes From Heaven, who is raced by Ron Anderson and his son Robert, has now won his past five starts taking his career record to six wins from 10 outings.

Sundons Courage, a stalwart of Victorian trotting, is closing in on $500, 000 in stake earnings after he accounted for his more fancied rivals in the Aldebaran Park Trotters Free For All.

Jack Laugher, taking the reins behind Sundons Courage for the first time, allowed the son of Sundon to lob along on the pegs at

Darley snares an upset win

Darley produced one of its best performances of the Ballarat Football League women’s season to upset Redan in the first week of finals.

The Lions entered finals undefeated and having beaten the Devils by 11 points in the final round.

The Devils were able to turn the table on Sunday.

The Devils kicked the first goal of the game and managed to get the margin out to 16 points at half time.

Redan struggled to convert in the third quarter kicking six points, while the Devils kicked the only goal of the quarter to extend the margin by one. They were able to continue to make it hard for the Lions to score, holding on to win, 3.6 (24)-0.9 (9).

Kim Bessell kicked the only three goals of the game.

Heidi Pearce, Amelia Williams Otutaha and Lilli Condon were named the Devils best.

Devils coach Brett Faulkhead said it was a really strong team performance from the group.

“Everything clicked and the belief in the girls was there,” he said. “The bond the girls have created for each other was there.

“They performed for each other.”

the rear of the field while the $2.20 favorite Aldebaran Vera took up the front running.

Sundons Courage was still last around the final bend, however once in sprint lane the 11-year- old displayed a scintillating turn of foot to reel in the leaders down the home stretch and score running away from stable mate Ebonys Avenger in a mile rate of 1:58.1.

Laugher said the Chris Angove trained winner was an old marvel.

“It’s the first time I have driven him and he went super,” Laugher said. “He just keeps getting the job done and I think he’s won a race every season he’s been racing.

Laugher said a change of gear proved effective after Sundons Courage overraced when unplaced at Melton the previous week.

“Last week he just got too fired up and they changed the bit around so I just kept him quiet in the warm up and he seemed fine, he settled better in the race tonight and obviously the bit worked wonders,” he said.

“They said he had been working well but things just haven’t been going his way at the races.”

SundonsCourage,whohassired25livefoals, has now won 27 races along with 39 placings.

The win sets up a semi final clash with local rival Bacchus Marsh in the semi finals. The winner will go through to the grand final, the loser into a preliminary final.

Last time the two teams played, the Cobras upset the Devils.

The final is set to play at Darley Park. Faulkhead said they would look to prepare for the game this week.

“It’sabiggameagainsttheCobrasand the grand prize is a spot in the grand final and loser into the preliminary final,” he said.

“It’s good for the local football community.”

Tara Murray

Kim Bessell. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 420267_15

Tara Murray Amy Garofalo. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 420267_04

Hes From Heaven. (Stuart McCormick)

Caroline Springs players primed for a final tilt

The development of Caroline Springs younger players has been the difference for the Western Football League division 1 side this year.

After making a grand final in 2022, the Lakers missed finals all together last season.

The Lakers didn’t look to make too many changes to their list in the off season and the decision has paid off with the side sitting in second spot with three rounds to go.

Football manager Shaun Rainer said their playing group had made massive inroads this season.

“We didn’t bring much in from last year,” he said. “We’ve got a fit and firing squad which is the best part and we’ve been playing some good football.

“We’ve been able to get that consistency and that has helped produce some results.

“The turnaround from last season has been the younger guys that have stepped up.

‘Some have been in the system a couple of years like Jamie Ristoski and Alipate Bryant. They’ve playing pretty confident football.”

Rainer knows while things have been going their way, it can pretty quickly change.

Thisyearhasproducedoneofthemoreeven division 1 seasons, with every team having won at least three games so far and a number of close games.

Rainer said it would be an exciting few weeks before finals.

“We want to make sure we lock away the double chance,” he said. “We’ve seen so far in results that you can’t just rock up and think that you’re just going to win.

“Every team you’re playing could be a side you’re possibly playing in finals.

“We want to go into the finals on the back of some good results.”

The Lakers had a big test this Saturday against Altona.

The Vikings have been one of the inform teams in the competition.

“It’s an eight point game,” Rainer said before the game. “They’ve had some really good results and really turned around their early season form.

“We definitely won’t take that game lightly.”

The Lakers were able to come through the test with flying colours.

A 35-1 first quarter set the match up for the Lakers who won every quarter in the 16.11 (107)-4.6 (30) win.

Bailey Raak kicked five goals in the win.

Keenan O’Shea and Bryant were named their best.

The win locked up second spot with two rounds remaining.

Indivision2,theWesternRamslosttoWest Footscray, 23.17 (155)-13.1 (79).

Meanwhile in the women’s competition, the Lakers locked in a double chance with a big win against Laverton.

It was a dominant display with the Lakers winning 23.19 (157)-0.0 (0).

Jacinta Kondis kicked nine goals in a best on ground performance.

The Lakers face Werribee Centrals for a spot in the grand final this weekend.

Burras’ double chance

By Tara Murray

Diggers Rest returned to form and locked up a double chance in the Riddell District Football League on Saturday.

It had been a tough few weeks for the Burras, who uncharacteristically dropped two matches in a row, including being held goalless against Riddell.

The Burras had a bye last round giving it the chance to reset.

On Saturday, they returned to the field against Romsey with both sides focused on trying to finish in the top three.

It was a more Burras-like performance, winning 12.10 (82)-6.8 (44).

Burras coach Jamie Lobb said it was nice to bounce back in that manner.

“It has been a tough five-six weeks,” he said. “The bye came at a good time.

“WeshouldhavewonagainstKynetonwhile we put the cue in the rack against Riddell. We didn’t play at all.

“We had seven changes come back into the

side that helped. It changes your structure and we were confident that we were going to play well.”

Co-coach Mitch Jensen led the inclusions for the Burras. Luke Delahey, Ryan Mullins, Brandon Sarich, Steven Fogarty and Jake Brown were among the others.

Lobb said they also had a few players like Mitchell Day and Marcus Calvaresi, who had just come back into the side and hadn’t played a lot of footy this year.

“It was nice to have them all out there,” he said.

Lobb said they set the tone during the week for how they wanted to play.

“We started the way we wanted to play,” he said. “We’d had a good week on the track.

“We controlled it for most of it. We could have been a bit more in front, but we missed some easy shots.

“We looked dangerous when we went inside 50 which was good. We doubled the inside 50s against Kyneton, but we didn’t look like scoring.”

Briefs

RDNL

The Riddell District Netball League top five is locked in heading into the final round. An upset win from Melton Centrals against Macedon sealed its final spot. Centrals won that match, 59-46. In other matches, Woodend-Hesket beat Kyneton 54-28 and sealed the minor premiership, Wallan beat Lancefield, 47-35 and Romsey was too strong for Diggers Rest, 66-42. The Hawks will finish in first, but the other four positions could change in the final round.

Ballarat FL

Darley got a big win against the Sunbury Lions to move up to third on the Ballarat Football League ladder. Both sides are already assured of finals spots and it was the Devils that won 19.7 (121)-8.8 (56). The Devils did all the damage after half time, kicking to 13 goals to three having led by five points at half time. Elsewhere, Melton beat Bacchus Marsh, 27.14 (176)-7.8 (50).

Ballarat NL

Mitch Jensen kicked six goals in a best on ground performance. He missed several shots as well.

JustinTenagliadidthejobonJackJedwabin what Lobb said was a really even performance.

“We had key targets for each line and we hit those targets, so it makes it easier,” he said.

The win had the Burras in third spot.

They are equal on points with second placed Wallan, but are now a game and significant percentage ahead of Romsey in fourth, meaning they will finish third at the worst.

Lobb said the match against Romsey was an eight point game in the battle for a top three spot.

The Burras face Melton Centrals in the final round.

Lobb said they still have a few more players to come back in the next couple of weeks.

On Saturday, Centrals pushed Macedon for most of its match.

Neither side could break away with Macedon doing enough to win, 10.8 (68)-8.5 (53).

Darley fell short in the top of the table clash in the Ballarat Netball League on Saturday. Facing the Sunbury Lions, the Devils lost 55-47. The Lions broke the game open in the third quarter, which they won 15-9. Olivia Cawthray shot 28 goals for the Devils. The Devils are now in third spot heading into the last two rounds. Back-to-back losses has seen Melton South slip to fifth spot. On Saturday, the Panthers lost to Redan 64-25, missing several of their stars. Elsewhere, Melton beat Bacchus Marsh, 74-24.

FV

Melton Phoenix’s hopes of promotion received a hit with a shock loss to Balmoral on Saturday in FV state league 4 west. Needing to finish second to go through to a play off match, the Phoenix has slipped to third after its 2-0 loss to Balmoral. It sits two points behind Keilor Wolves in second. The Phoenix face Barwon this week.

Campbell Wearne. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 420263_12

Tara Murray Alipate Bryant. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 416136_16

Sharks look to bounce back after qualifying loss

Hillside is hoping to take the lessons of its qualifying final loss to bounce back bigger in the Essendon District Football League women’s premier division.

Playingtheirfirstfinalssince2019,formany of the side it was their first finals experience at this level.

While the Sharks finished on top, it faced a tough task in knocking off last year’s premiers Oak Park for the first spot in the grand final.

The Kangaroos jumped out of the blocks and kicked three goals to nothing in the first quarter.

It was game over by half time with the Kangaroos leading by 38 points.

The Sharks were able to reduce the margin in the second half, but it was too late with the Sharks winning, 7.6 (48)-2.4 (16).

Sharks coach Blaise Ferraro said it was one of those days.

“It wasn’t overly unexpected, we didn’t come out to play,” he said. “We’ve been a little bit flat for a couple of weeks and there was a

little bit of inexperience there.

“A lot of girls were having their first crack at it. Everyone was a little bit fumbling.

“They were good and we were a little bit off.”

Ferraro said once you concede a lead like that, it’s always hard to come back from that.

He said they were able to stabilise it in the second half once the game was over.

Caitlin Sargent and Nikita Wright were the goal kickers for the Sharks.

MiaSpiteri,Sargent,EllieNeralic,LisaParisi and Annie Gray were all solid contributors, with Ferraro saying there were no standouts.

Ferraro said they wouldn’t take many positives out of the game.

“We get that finals experience under our belts and what it’s going to be like with that added pressure,” he said.

“It’s the first time we’ve been behind all year and we had to adjust to that as well.”

It doesn’t get any easier for the Sharks in the preliminary final, facing Aberfeldie.

Abers beat Essendon Doutta Stars in the

elimination final, 8.5 (53)-4.4 (28).

The last time the two teams played, Aberfeldie gave Hillside its first loss of the season.

Ferraro said they are keen to make sure they had a better performance this week.

“They are a strong outfit as well,” he said. “Preliminary finals are never fun, but it’s a reward for a good season.

“It was a bit of dead rubber last time we played and we knew we would likely play them again.

“That game could have gone either way... We’ll make some adjustments.”

In good news for the Sharks, the club announced that Ferraro had re-signed for next season.

He said he was happy to put pen onto paper.

“I have enjoyed this year,” Ferraro said. “Regardless of what happens now, I’m rapt and happy that the club and players want me back.”

Bears storm home

By Tara Murray

Burnside Heights put a disappointing first finals performance behind it and stormed into the Essendon District Football League women’s division 1 grand final on Saturday.

The minor premiers showed more of the form we had become used to this season in Saturday’s preliminary final win against Airport West.

Four goals to none in the first quarter set the game up and from there the Bears confidence grew.

They continued to build the lead in every quarter on the way to a 12.11 (83)-0.5 (5) win.

Bears coach Michael Davis was thrilled with the result.

“We controlled the contrast and took our chances,” he said. “We worked as a group and it’s been four years in the making.

“We’ve been working towards it and we’re now in a second grand final and it is pretty special.”

Davis said despite being disappointed the week before they had a lot of belief in

what they could do and tried to put that performance behind them and focus on Airport West.

He said the group was really switched on from the start.

“We were in control and we had options,” he said. “ We rewarded our players and got it forward and were able to kick goals.

“Early in the season we struggled to convert, we were able to be 5.5 at half time, it was good to be a bit better.”

Davis said with the game in their control at the main break, the group were up and about and keen to get the job done.

Bella Negri kicked four goals and Kayla Ravanello kicked three goals.

Davis said their midfield led the way in the win.

He highlighted Krissy Trang, Ebony Stevens, Payton-Ani Ozols, Holly McGregor and Bethany Correia.

The Bears will now face Greenvale in the grand final at Coburg City Oval at 2.25pm.

The Jets will be playing off in a third straight grand final, while the Bears are

Panthers looking at options

Melton South Football Netball Club’s future will be on the agenda at a special general meeting later this month.

The club has called the meeting for August 21 with discussions to be held in relation to club structure and affiliation.

Only club members are permitted to attend.

Club president Matthew Collins told Star Weekly last month the club has had a conversation with the Riddell District Football Netball League in regards to their future and maybe looking at changing leagues.

“There’s nothing concrete, we’re just exploring our options,” he said. “We can’t keep going the way we’re going.

“Players get sick of losing.”

The club previously played in the RDFNL from 1973 until making the move to the Ballarat Football Netball League in 1997.

On the football field, the club has struggled for a number of years and they haven’t won a senior game this season and were winless last season as well.

In netball, their A-grade side is set to play finals and has been a shining light in recent years.

playing in their first grand final since its first season in 2018 when there was one division.

The two teams have split the four matches between them 2-2, with the Jets winning the most recent match, the qualifying final.

Davis said they were expecting a hard contest in the grand final. He said they wanted to keep this week as normal as possible and try and enjoy it.

“The home team has lost all four of the matches so far,” he said. “This week there will be some venom [following the qualifying final loss].

“We’ll make sure the girls are on top of things and not looking too far ahead. We’ll keep it light hearted and enjoy it.

“We don’t want to play the game in our heads between now and then.”

The Bears men’s division 2 side had the bye on the weekend.

They’ll face Taylors Lakes in the final round on Saturday.

The winner will finish on top with the two teams to also face each other the following week for a spot in the grand final.

It’s not the first time the Panthers have called a special general meeting to discuss structure and affiliation in recent times.

The club held one in August 2018

A motion was moved for the committee to look at the club’s affiliations as they looked for the best option for sustainability and the viability of the club, long term.

Netball was seen as a major focus with the club having strong numbers in that program.

Despite that motion, it remained status quo for the Panthers with their seniors in the BFNL and juniors in the RDFNL.

On Saturday, the Panthers had one of their better performances of the season.

While losing 17.9 (111)-13.9 (87) to Redan it was the side’s highest score of the season.

The Panthers this week host Ballarat before finishing off the season against Sebastopol.

Tara Murray

Holly Mcgregor. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 422916_07

Annie Gray. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 416139_16

Action from around the grounds

Ljubica Vrankovic was in

Greenvale’s Jason Kenneth. 424311_29

Meekness Payne looks to get past his opponent. 424321_11

Altona Gators’ Samson Rocker shoots. 424321_03

A big Craigieburn Eagles crowd. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_424324_11

Plenty Valley Lions’ Reilly Armstrong. 424318_02

Lalor’s Michael Gravina. 424317_02

The Craigieburn Eagles bench. 424324_16

Epping’s Joshua Bawden. 424317_22

Whittlesea Pacers’ Ethan Bateman and Westgate Imperials’ Mabeny Mabor. 424320_31

Plenty Valley Lions’ Jesse Walker. 424318_03

Westgate Imperials’ James Avgerinos. 424320_15

A Greenvale water person is all smiles. 424311_11