School gets fire ready
Toolern Vale and District Primary School is ready to take on the upcoming bushfire season.
The school has received $23,5000 from the state government as part of the Bushfire Preparedness Vegetation Program (BVBP).
The program instructs schools on the best ways to carry out essential maintenance work and mitigate the risk of harm to students, staff, and property in the event of a bushfire
Principal Elizabeth Richardson said it was important to take potential fire danger seriously.
“Our school is located in a lovely bush setting which is important to maintain to reduce bushfire risks. We are very happy to have been provided the money to prepare for the 2024–25 bushfire season,” she said.
“Throughout the year, and particularly during fire danger periods, we will use our funding to ensure that roofs and gutters are regularly cleared and ground level vegetation is well maintained.
“This will allow us to ensure that our school grounds are clear of dry grass and vegetation, up to and adjacent to our school boundaries.”
Eddie Russell
Hospital funding concern
By Eddie Russell
Moorabool council will call on Western Health and the state government to reaffirm their commitments to keep Bacchus Marsh and Melton Regional Hospital open.
In 2021, Djerriwarrh Health was integrated into Western Health, which currently operates the Bacchus Marsh and Melton Regional Hospital.
At the time of the merger, commitments were given that the hospital would remain open and no job losses or reduction of staff would come from the amalgamation of services.
Another commitment was that the
amount of local health services, funding and community programs would not only remain consistent, but increase to match the rapid population growth of the region.
At a council meeting on August 7, councillors decided to write to Premier Jacinta Allan, Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas, Eureka MP Michaela Settle and Western Health chairperson Jill Hennessy, seeking assurances the 2021 commitments would be upheld.
The motion was moved by Councillor Rod Ward, who said there were concerns about the legitimacy of the agreements.
“I have been contacted by some local residents who are working there and they
have made me aware there is a recruitment ban – so if people are leaving, they aren’t being replaced,” he said.
“If there is a [potential] reduction of staff levels, there will be reduction of services being offered to local residents.”
The operational timeline of the new Melton hospital is evidence of why crucial healthcare needs must be met in Moorabool, said Cr Ward.
“I’m deeply concerned that the $900 million hospital in Melton, which was to commence this year, hasn’t, so the need to continue funding services in our growing community is critical,” he said.
Moorabool council chief executive Tom
Madden told councillors that Western Health had reassured council that “services would likely increase” if anything.
Eureka MP Michaela Settle said hiring practices were not the responsibility of the state government but it would continue to support health services.
“The hospital and the boards are responsible for staff hiring policy, not the government,” she said.
“The Labor Government has invested a further 1.5 billion to support hospitals deliver world class care, building on the more than 8.8 billion we invested in the budget.” Western Health was contacted for comment.
Toolern Vale & District Primary council president Kim McCasker and his kids Savannah and Zac. (Damjan Janevski) 425143_02
Councils call for rate cap change
Restrictions on revenue sources, rising costs and population growth are creating ongoing challenges, according to the Outer Melbourne Councils (OMC) group.
Thegroup,previouslyknownastheInferface Councils Group, comprises 10 councils that form a ring around metropolitan Melbourne, including Whittlesea, Hume, Wyndham and Melton.
They commissioned KordaMentha to prepare a report on the funding interface between local and state governments.
The report found that while councils were managing their finances well, they were
facing revenue challenges in the form of the state government’s rates cap, rising costs and population growth.
It found that the state government’s rates cap - introduced in 2016 under the Fair Go Rates System to limit rate increases - was impacting councils’ ability to deliver infrastructure and services, as was rising
OMC representative and Whittlesea council chair administrator, Lydia Wilson said the groupwascallingonthestategovernment,and federal government where applicable, to enter into a new partnerships with local government to address growth challenges.
“This is the great public policy challenge of our time – how do we do growth better?
“We need to meet the needs of today’s communities,planfortomorrow’communities and agree on how we pay for the services and infrastructure our communities need.”
The report made a number of recommendations which the OMC believes will provide a financial platform to support further population growth.
These include cost-reflective indexation of the rate cap, exemptions from the rate cap for infrastructure programs to provide for population growth and exemption for local
Don’t bin coffee cups, recycle them
The launch of a coffee cup recycling program in Melton means caffeinated residents can stop more than 50,000 paper cups going to landfill.
The trial was launched by Melton council in partnership with Simply Cups at the start of the month with bins set up across the area.
This includes the libraries in Caroline Springs and Melton and Cobblebank Stadium.
Melton Environment Group president Daryl Akers said the move was a “step in the right direction” and was a positive approach to tackling waste.
“Thinking along those lines is a good way to deal with the problem – any attempts are
applauded,” he said.
“It’s ideal… better than throwing them into the landfill.”
However, Mr Akers said that there is one solution that is more sustainable than recycling – keep cups.
“A couple of years ago, there was a trend towards reusing your own cup rather than buying single use cups – it would be better if people can go back to that,” he said.
“Reusing over and over again is preferred.
Much of the plastic [in coffee cups] is single use and stays in the environment for decades.”
Morethan2billionpapercupsarediscarded in Australia each year.
Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the initiative helped create a “more sustainable environment.”
“Byrecyclingpapercupsthroughaspecialist processor, we can reduce contamination in kerbside recycling and stop unnecessary waste going to landfill,” she said.
Specialisedrecyclingfacilitiescanturncups into building material, roads and lightweight concrete products.
Coffee cups, takeaway soft drink cups, ice cream cups and compostable/biodegradable cups will be accepted during the trial.
Eddie Russell
government from the state government’s windfall gains tax where landholdings are repurposed for community benefit.
According to the state government, councils can apply for a higher rate cap if they can demonstrate community support and a critical need for spending on services or projects that require a rate rise above the capped amount.
A state government spokesperson said the Fair Go Rates system was reducing the cost of living for Victorians.
“TheVictorianbudget2024-25hasincreased financial support to local government by $161 million to a total of $875 million.”
Djerriwarrh Festival is back again
The beloved Djerriwarrh Festival in Melton will return in November this year.
From 11.30am to 9pm on Saturday November 23, a street parade will shut down the section of High Street between Hannah Watts Park and Smith Street.
Along the route, locals can expect live music, fireworks, a kids zone, a pet expo, an intercultural stage, and a market village.
There will also be an emergency services display and a sustainability lane.
Schools, community groups, sports clubs, businesses, and other organisations in the area can all apply to be involved in the parade or have their own stall.
Applications are open from now and close at 5pm on Sunday September 15.
Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the street parade was “iconic” and would lead to long-lasting memories for participants.
“Whether you are regular in the parade or have never done it before, I encourage your school, club or community group to sign up and be part of something that fills the Melton Town Centre with colour and joy,” she said.
Thethemeforthisyear’sDjerriwarrh Festival Street Parade theme is “The City We Create”.
Applicants are encouraged to share their vision for Melton and help to showcase the strength of the community.
Mt Atkinson residents united behind train station petition
The organiser of the petition requesting a train station for Mt Atkinson said that it has brought the community “very close.”
Manish Baisoya, who led the petition, said it had united the residents of the estate.
“Whatever the outcome, we as a community came together to work on a common cause,” he said.
The petition, which received more than 5000signatures,wastabledinstateParliament last week on August 13 by Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch.
Ms Grigorivitch, who was a staunch supporter and sponsor of the petition, said it was an honour to be involved in the grassroots campaign.
“I’m proud to stand side-by-side with my community in advocating for the need for a train station to be built in Mt Atkinson,” she said.
While the petition was accepted, it does not mean the station is guaranteed but it is more likely to be considered than before.
The rapid growth of the Melton area has exposed a lack of transport options and highlighted a need for increased services, Ms Grigorovitch said .
“We need better and more frequent public transport in our fastest growing suburbs to keep the community connected so they can
easily travel wherever they need to go.”
Mr Baisoya said they would not have got to where they were without Ms Grigorovitch.
“She has been very committed and her staff have been very helpful… we have received really good support from them,” he said.
The lengthy efforts to raise awareness felt “like a marathon,” Mr Baisoya said.
“The last three months… we have spent promoting it, handing out flyers at other train stations and talking to people at shopping centres.”
MrBaisoyasaidthediverserangeoftalentin
Mt Atkinson was harnessed for the campaign.
“Our community is full of smart people
– they all have different skills and we have utilised that from analytics to design and marketing,” he said.
From here, locals will hold their breath to see if it is ‘next stop: Mt Atkinson’.
“I think we have made our mark – people know about us and our need so hopefully we can get something out of it,” Mr Baisoya said.
The petition also received a letter of support from Sri Durga temple in Deanside.
Eddie Russell
Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik recycles a coffee cup. (Damjan Janevski) 424788_03
Changing lives through recycling
By Jaidyn Kennedy
TOMRA Cleanaway’s Victorian Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) has been making a difference in the lives of many in the north and west since its inception last November.
Alysha Constable from Melton started collecting bottles and cans with her son during covid as an activity and to teach him how to play his part in helping the environment.
When they began depositing them for refunds in November, her life changed for the better.
The ongoing cost of living crisis has made the already challenging task of being a single mother to a nine-year-old even trickier.
“It’s given me the opportunity to actually do some work and make some money in an unconventional way,” she said.
“Knowing that even though I’m on a pension and have a disability, I am still going to be able to make enough money for my son and I.”
Financial relief is far from the only benefit the CDS has provided Alysha, it has also helped her overcome tough timesandgainasenseofpurposethrough meeting others and immersing herself in nature.
Dealingwithsocialanxietyhasprovided a barrier to working in conventional workplaces for Alysha, so being able to choose her own hours, locations and workload has given her a sense of independence.
As a lifelong advocate for the environment, cleaning up her local area has become a mission of sorts for Alysha, who wants to leave theplanetingoodshapeforthelikesofherson.
“If we can reduce the amount of pressure that the next generation is going to feel that’s awesome,” she said.
However, the sheer amount of litter she sees
means that there is still plenty of work to do.
“It’s just so sad to see people still doing it. I wantmysontolearnit’ssoimportantnottodo that,” she said.
Theabilitytoexercisewhiledoingsomething purposeful has been an added bonus.
“TOMRA, inadvertently I’d say, has actually givenmeallofthesenewthingsinmylifethatI just didn’t see coming – and it’s been fantastic.
“This actually working, it’s making a difference in people’s lives- and it’s definitely made a difference to my life.”
While unable to recall the exact amount she has recycled, Alysha estimates it has been at least her own body weight.
TOMRA Cleanaway surpassed its goal of installing 180 sites by August 2024 reaching 196, including 16 in the last two weeks.
IS A NEW BRANCH OPEN IN MELTON?
Branch Manager - Andrew Lloyd
Almost $30,000,000 has been refunded in Victoria. Residents of the West Zone can download the CDS Vic West Zone app to check on the live status of their local refund point, verify container eligibility, and manage and track container refunds.
Details: mytomra.com.au/locations/viccontainer-deposit-scheme/
173 HIGH ST, MELTON | FAMILY OWNED, LOCALLY
Alysha recycling at Woodgrove Shopping Centre, Melton West. Inset: ‘Can Mountain’ coined by Alysha’s son. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 424978
Multicultural centre seeks help
A Diggers Rest Nepalese multicultural centre is seeking support to improve its facilities to better cater for guests and provide more programs to the community.
TheestablishmentoftheAustralianNepalese Multicultural Centre (ANMC) took more than 25 years, with the initial concept formed by a group of Nepali families in 1997.
After gradually raising funds over several years,thegroupwaseventuallyabletopurchase land in Diggers Rest in 2019.
The centre has received federal government and state government funding. The centre applied for another round of state government
community infrastructure funding last year, but was unsuccessful.
ANMC President Gandhi Bhattarai said the centre now requires further support to meet the demands of guests and provide additional programs.
“We got the land … but just how the community [has] demanded, we’re not able to fulfil. So, that’s a bit of frustration … we need urgent support,” Mr Bhattarai said.
“In our culture, the guest we treat as a god … but we sometimes feel like when they come to our place, there are no basic amenities … that makes us very nervous.”
Donations a hot item
Those doing it tough in Melbourne’s west will now be able to enjoy hot meals at home.
Ravenhall charity Western Emergency Relief Network (WERN) has been able to deliver “a year’s supply” of microwaves to struggling families with help from Altona and Laverton Bendigo Bank branches.
Administration manager Ross Butterworth said the microwaves would make a “big difference” to people in need, which includes refugees, domestic violence victims, and homeless people.
“For people going into a home for the first time in a long time, a microwave gives them an opportunity for a hot meal,” he said.
The demand for electrical goods like washing machines, fridges, and microwaves is high, Mr Butterworth said. “There are 12 to 15 families that come through our warehouse every week .. most of them want that [microwaves] amongst other things.
“We always struggle to get enough goods
of any sort but certainly microwaves … so supportfromBendigoandotherorganisations makes a huge difference.”
WERN is a community service project supported and managed by local Rotary clubs, with help from councils and businesses.
It services nine municipalities in the north and west of Melbourne. Mr Butterworth said covering such a large aew was not always easy.
“It’s a big catchment but today we’ve managed to do that reasonably well.
“Commercial support is critical to making the program work – most items that we buy are second hand but Bendigo gave us the opportunity to purchase new stock.”
Bendigo Bank Altona and Laverton senior branch manager Daniela Guertler said “We got involved with WERN because they are a local organisation addressing a crucial need for people trying to establish their households. Being involved in these efforts is incredibly rewarding.”
Mr Bhattarai said the centre is in need of heatingandcoolingfacilities,increasedkitchen amenities,andalargerspaceforhostingevents, language classes and dance classes.
“There is an immediate need, and we are not able to address it. It’s causing a bit of grief.”
Mr Bhattarai said while many still offer monthly contributions towards improving the centre, it is difficult to rely on these alone.
He said the organisation hopes to offer in-house language and dance classes, and become self-sustaining and fully operational –with the centre open for anyone to book as an event space.
“For the first generation leading into the second generation, it’s always that culture shock, and there is a gap, so it would be really good to have those facilities for the kids to engage in,” he said. He said that multicultural centres can play an important role in maintaining wellbeing.
“Especiallythemigrantcommunities…they just miss out on a lot of other things like going out and that sort of thing because life is too complicated,” he said. “They go to the centre and they feel calmer and patient. They will be with other families as well, so it gives them the opportunity to get together and share.”
Melton family raise money for son’s life-changing van
A Melton family is seeking the help of the communitytoraise$70,000tobuyawheelchair accessible van for their son.
Jackson Brown is a four-year-old with epilepsy and an X-linked intellectual disability – a rare genetic disorder that affects 12 people in Australia.
It means he needs full assistance with all aspects of personal care, from bathing and dressing to moving around.
Contact us to arrange a free, no-obligation appointment to get legal advice about your claim and to
His parents, Chris and Kate Brown, as well as uncle Shaun Carr, want to purchase a specially modified van that would allow Jackson to be wheeled in rather than lifted in.
Easing the physical strain will make a world of difference to the family, said Ms Brown.
“Trying to get Jackson in and out of my car and use the wheelchair is not fun on my back,” she said.
“It means that we aren’t trying to lift him in and out… and my parents or sister can help me look after him a lot easier as well.”
It will also make mobility significantly more achievable for both Jackson and his parents, allowing them to move around the community more freely and safely.
“He’s going to have that much more engagement with the community because of this van because he’s not just reliant on me,” said Ms Brown.
On top of having to get to regular appointments at the Royal Children’s Hospital, commuting 30 minutes each way to school next year will place extra strain on the Browns.
Donate: https://gofund.me/9b5a7583
4, needs
WERN volunteer Sue Selleck and Altona and Lavertion senior branch manager Daniela Guertler with the microwaves. (Damjan Janevski) 423931_01
Bollywood star power
It’s not every day that a Bollywood superstar pays a surprise visit to Melton, but that’s exactly what happened last week, as Rani Mukerji popped into the Sri Durga temple in Deanside.
The Indian actress attended the temple on Monday, August 12 to take part in prayer and quiet reflection.
She is in Australia to promote the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, which ends August 25.
Sri Durga temple vice president Gary Verma said Ms Mukerji timed her appearance to perfection.
“She picked a quiet time at lunch – it’s busy in the morning and at night – so she could do her prayer peacefully,” he said.
“Itassuredherprivacyandsafety…without paparazzi.”
Mr Verma said Ms Mukerji was deeply
religious and that the temple made an impression with her.
“Even today, I’m getting messages from her teamsayingthatinfuturewhenevershecomes to Melbourne she wants to visit,” he said.
“From the first door she entered, she was amazed.”
It isn’t the first time a celebrity has visited the Sri Durga temple, which is one of the largest Hindu temples in Australia.
Mr Verma said visiting the temple was a humble way to connect with faith and culture, even for those with fame and fortune.
“We have many sports stars from the Indian cricket team and Indian politicians who have come in the past,” he said.
“No matter what level of stardom you are, you can always stay in touch with your culture.”
Eddie Russell
Briefs
Aerodrome emergency exercise
An emergency management training exercise is being planned at Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome to test the aerodrome’s emergency response plan. The Moorabool Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee (MEMPC) is conducting the exercise, co-ordinated by Shepherd Consulting. The exercise will involve Victoria Police, Country Fire Authority (CFA), Victoria State Emergency Service (SES), Ambulance Victoria, St John’s Ambulance, the Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome Committee of Management, Moorabool council and other members of the planning committee. The exercise will enable agencies to practise their response to a complex emergency situation involving aircraft and fire. It will take place on Sunday, August 25.
Station art wanted Moorabool artists can apply to have their artwork displayed at Ballan station as part of the Transporting Arts Pilot Program. The program aims to enliven the community and passenger experience at transport hubs across Victoria, through public art installations. Artists are encouraged to submit an expression of interest to Moorabool council by Friday, September 6 at 5pm. For more information and details on how to apply, contact: arts@moorabool.vic.gov.au FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Lifestyle Woodlea Open Day
Discover the very best that downsizing in Melbourne’s West has to offer at Lifestyle Woodlea.
Explore our display homes and tour the multi-million-dollar Clubhouse. There’ll also be a presentation at 12pm from My Pension Manager on Age Pension applications and dealing with Centrelink.
When: Saturday 31st August
Time: 11am to 2pm
Scan the QR code to find out more. Call 1300 50 55 60 to RSVP or walk-in on the day!
Rani Mukerji (centre) with members of the Sri Durga temple during her visit. (Supplied)
MY PLACE
De’Arne Marshall is a veteran radio presenter on 979fm Melton Community Radio who loves all things rock ‘n’ roll, especially Elvis. She spoke to Eddie Russell about her connection to the local community.
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?
I have been with 979fm for 25 years, and in the entertainment business since I was 17 years old. My mum and grandmother were professional singers and years ago I promoted up and coming entertainers. I retired from work this year and am looking forward to the next chapter of life – there are so many things I still have to explore and I will make one more trip to Graceland to say my farewell to my idol Elvis Presley, the King.
What is your connection to Melton?
I worked for Bunnings for 25 years, including 19 years at Altona, and then transferred to Melton as my best friend, John Forbes, found out he had prostate cancer. He was a well respected figure and it was too much for him to travel to Ballarat Hospital after work, so I nursed him right til the end and honoured his request to die at home. I have presented Memories of Elvis for many years and have been on air for even longer.
What do you like about where you live?
I love Melton. It has progressed so much since I first came here 15 years ago, there are so many restaurants, businesses, and shopping outlets for all. We have the best community radio station in the west with great presenters bringing you all genres of music, talkback, and news.
Where is your favourite local place to spend time?
My favourite place to be is our local radio station presenting Jukebox Memories on Saturday mornings from 8–10am, RnR Heaven Saturday nights from 6–8pm and then Memories Of Elvis from Saturday, 8pm-10pm.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you?
I have been to Graceland 15 times and will go one last time next year. On one of my many visits a few years ago, I was walking through taking photos and when I got to the ‘Jungle Room’ my camera was going crazy.
When I developed the photos, they all came out beautifully except that one in the ‘Jungle Room’ – it looked like there was a piano in the air and two pairs of arms. When I returned, I placed a framed copy in one of the studios at 979fm and the presenter before me told me he had a medium as a guest on his show who jumped three feet back when he saw the
picture. The medium said he saw Elvis and his twin brother Jessie playing the piano! What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I live in Harkness and it would be good to have a supermarket as I am up near Toolern Vale.
Dancing in a line
TheU3ABrimbankrunsprogramsforseniors all across Brimbank and Melton. Standing for University of the Third Age, the U3A group encourages active retirement, and offers a number of programs to every resident, retired or not, aged 50 and above. Every Thursday, the group runs a line dancing session at the Sydenham Neighbourhood House at 11am. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski stopped by to capture some of the fun.
Tutor Jean Dooley leading the lines. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 424045
MyPlace: De’Arne Marshall has been a radio host for 979fm for 25 years. (Damjan Janevski) 424216_02
Hysterectomy rates are slipping
By Anne Parisianne
Fewer Victorian women are opting to treat heavy periods with a hysterectomy, a new report has found.
The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care’s Women’s Health Focus Report found there had been a 25 per cent decrease in hysterectomy rates in Victoria over the past eight years.
Across Melbourne’s north-west, the decline in hysterectomy rates varied. The Macedon Ranges recorded the largest decline (35.5 per cent), followed by Whittlesea-Wallan (28 per cent), Tullamarine-Broadmeadows (25 per cent), Melton (23 per cent), Hobsons Bay (22.4 per cent), Sunbury (20 per cent), Wyndham (16.6 per cent), Brimbank (12.6 per cent) and Keilor (6.1 per cent).
A hysterectomy is a major operation to remove the uterus and the most invasive treatment for heavy periods.
The commission said the decrease suggested women were opting for less invasive treatments to manage heavy periods.
The report found that over the past eight years, there has been a 10 per cent increase in the rate of a less invasive procedure –endometrial ablation (removal of the uterus lining using heat).
According to the report, one in four Australian women experience significantly heavy periods that seriously affects their quality of life.
About 50 per cent of women did not seek medical care despite the debilitating impact of heavy periods on daily life, which the report attributed to the stigma of menstruation and women assuming their bleeding was ‘normal’.
The commission also developed the 2024 heavymenstrualbleedingclinicalcarestandard to empower women to make informed choices abouthowtheytreatheavymenstrualbleeding.
Commission clinical director and GP, associate professor Liz Marles, said while the decline in hysterectomy rates and increase in endometrial ablation was positive, there was a long way to go to ensure women could access
Australians
Period poverty is ‘alarming’
Women across the northern and western suburbs are finding it difficult to access period products, a new survey has revealed.
Charity Share the Dignity’s bloody big survey found that across Victoria, 65 per cent of menstruators have found it difficult to buy period products.
In Melton, that figure increases to 67.7 per cent of those surveyed, followed by 67.2 per cent in Whittlesea, 66.98 per cent in Moorabool, 66.14 per cent in Wyndham, 65.72 per cent in Hume, 59.61 per cent in Brimbank, 59.41 per cent in the Macedon Ranges, 56.61 per cent in Hobsons Bay and 55.28 per cent in Maribyrnong.
Surveying 153,620 people, the bloody big survey focused on experiences, attitudes and insights on menstruation. It is run every three years to monitor the physical, social and financial impacts of menstruation and to look at period poverty rates across the nation.
Share the Dignity founder and managing director Rochelle Courtenay said the survey results were alarming.
“It breaks my heart to see such high rates of period poverty continuing here in Australia,” she said. “No one should have to go without these basic essentials, yet this issue is alarmingly prevalent.
“Ihaveheardsomanystoriessharedthrough the survey about people’s experiences with period poverty, with some people having used tea towels, or tote bags to try and manage their period with dignity, which is simply unacceptable in a country like Australia.”
MsCourtenaysaidtheresultswillarmShare the Dignity with the evidence needed to create lasting change in Australia.
“I am now focused on ensuring free and dignified access to period products in University/TAFE campuses, and sporting centres as well as campaigning for local councils to ensure their residents can manage their period with dignity,” she said.
Donations of unopened period products and incontinence aids can be made to Share the Dignity’s Dignity Drive during August. Details: sharethedignityorg.au
the full range of treatment options.
“Every woman should have access to care that is tailored to her needs. Yet we know that women’s concerns about heavy menstrual bleeding can be overlooked and it can be hard to access suitable care,” she said.
“While some women may choose hysterectomy, we want to avoid them going straight to the most invasive procedure, withoutbeingofferedlessinvasiveandeffective alternatives and information on the risks and benefits. Hysterectomy cannot be reversed and has increased risk of complications.”
Associate professor Marles said the
commission was seeking three outcomes.
“Firstly, we want women to know they don’t have to put up with symptoms, to feel comfortable talking about their periods and to be aware that there are a range of treatments, which don’t necessarily involve a major operation,” she said.
“Let’s also upskill the healthcare workforce so women are offered the full suite of treatment options, and practitioners can deliver minimally invasive treatments if appropriate, such as the hormonal IUD.
“Finally, health practitioners need to ask women about their menstrual health and tailor care to individual needs, so they receive the most suitable treatment, which differs for each woman.”
University of Sydney gynaecologist and Women’s Health Focus Report expert advisory group member, professor Kirsten Black, said the impact of heavy menstrual bleeding on a woman’s health and quality of life remains under-recognised.
“It has been great that we have seen a shift towards less invasive gynaecology procedures sincethefirstheavymenstrualbleedingclinical carestandardwasintroducedin2017,”shesaid.
“We know that many women with heavy menstrual bleeding can be successfully managed by their GP or other primary care practitioner using medical treatments like the hormonal IUD.
“Healthcare providers need to understand their patient’s menstrual history and whether the bleeding prevents them from going about daily activities and interacting socially. Some women feel they can’t leave the house when they’ve got their period because of fear of excessive bleeding.
“For women with heavy menstrual bleeding, finding the right treatment has the potential to be life-changing.”
Star Weekly wants to hear from you about the health issues affecting women in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs. Our 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.
Donating to the Dignity Drive will help support
who are experiencing period poverty.
Associate professor Liz Marles. (Supplied)
Pageant showcases Samoan pride
By Afraa Kori
Chantelle Tautunuafatasi from Sunshine West was crowned Miss Samoa Victoria, but her journey is far from over.
She is now set to compete for the national crown and represent Victoria in Samoa’s most anticipated beauty pageant.
Chantelle, 24, said it feels “surreal” to compete in the Miss Samoa state and national pageants.
“I’m still processing as we speak but I’m honoured to be in this space, to have been graced with this opportunity and to use this platform to serve my community,” she said.
“Participating in the pageant is something that I’ve always wanted to do and a dream that my family and I have shared. This year I’ve found myself in a position where the opportunity has presented itself and is aligned with where I’m at in this chapter of life. Something that I truly didn’t expect but God’s timing is always impeccable.
‘‘ We all understood that this was a competition but ... empowering each other and lifting up your sister is possible ’’
- Chantelle Tautunuafatasi
“We are off to Samoa in the next three weeks so that I can compete at the National Miss Samoa pageant. So I will be representing the state of Victoria, we have our community fundraiser coming soon so keep an eye out for that.”
Held at Sheldon Reception on August 3, the Miss Samoa Victoria pageant offered culture, class, entertainment and laughs, while bringing the community together.
Chantelle excelled in various categories, winning an award for Best Introduction, Best Sarong, Best Traditional Wear, Best Talent, Best Puletasi and Best Siva Samoa.
“My favourite category was the talent section. The story behind it is something that I hold close to my heart. The Samoan Siapo that I wore belonged to my late grandmother and the Fijian Siapo was a gift from the village that we come from in Fiji; Bureta, Levuka Ovalau. The medley that I sang is a Samoan and Fijian song, dedicated to my ancestors. It was an incredible honour to stand before everyone to represent those who have come before me,” she said.
The secretary of Miss Samoa Victoria, Seumanutafa Pa’u, said it takes bravery, tenacity and determination to compete in the pageant and stand in front of community and loved ones.
“When girls apply to participate in the Miss Samoa Victoria pageant, they embark
on a comprehensive pre-pageant program, closely mirroring the prestigious Miss Samoa pageant held in Samoa,” she said.
“Our pre-pageant program includes stage presence and public speaking workshops, how to walk runway workshops, radio interviews, financial literacy workshop, fundraising events, Aganu’u (cultural) classes all help to
prepare contestants for the big night as well as eases them into serving the public. We find as girls continue the program they become more confident in speaking, how they carry themselves and especially when it comes to the cultural side of things they don’t shy away from it.
“Upon being crowned Miss Samoa Victoria,
the winner represents Victoria on a grand stage and is sponsored by Miss Samoa Victoria Incorporated at the Miss Samoa Pageant in Samoa. The Miss Samoa pageant is akin to Miss America but uniquely centers on reviving, preserving and celebrating our rich cultural heritage. This distinctive approach includes no height restrictions and a stage presentation where contestants perform barefoot, showcasing traditional attire and values. The winner of Miss Samoa then advances to compete as Miss Samoa at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant, which features a diverse array of cultures from Tonga, Hawaii, Aotearoa (NZ), Fiji, Cook Islands, American Samoa, Tuvalu, Niue, Kiribati, and beyond.”
One of valuable lessons Chantelle took away from winning the Victorian pageant, was that the competition turned to sisterhood.
“I want the message of love and compassion to be shared through my story,” she said.
“One thing that’s so special to me is sisterhood. I came into this experience ready to learn more about myself but also to learn about my pageant sisters who have become my beautiful friends. We all understood that this was a competition but at the same time, empowering each other and lifting up your sister is possible even during a competition. Love and compassion for others can always be given and is free, there is enough hate and negativity in the world and I think it’s really important to remind people of the light that they carry and have the opportunity to spread.”
With her new title, Chantelle was able to promote and preserve her cultural roots and faith.
“My Samoan heritage is something that I proudly carry with me. I try to always incorporateapartofmyculturewhereverIgo, especially outside of our Pasifika community because living in the diaspora, it isn’t seen or represented as much. So whether it’s wearing my traditional clothes or accessories at events, incorporating the Samoan language into my performances, or even just speaking on the importance of the culture, I will always do my best to represent my Samoa in a positive light. Being a representative of the Samoan Community of Victoria is to always treat people with kindness and respect, something that is taught to us and a message that I hope to pass on.
“I’m planning to work with our community to create and promote projects that embrace the beautiful Samoan culture, programs that provide knowledge and opportunities for not just our youth but for all ages to be included in the upcoming events. “My highlight in terms of growth through this experience, has been developing a deeper connection with God. I’ve learnt to lean on him and to trust in what he has planned over my life, whether I was going to be crowned or not, at the end of the day I decided to go out there and have fun but most importantly to go with God.”
Chantelle after her crowning as Miss Samoa Victoria.
Chantelle competing in the Victorian pageant, showcasing traditional dress. Right: Chantelle and the pageant runners-up. (Pictures courtesy New Way Photography)
Leave recyclables loose.
Leave recyclables loose - never put them in bags.
Recycling in plastic bags cannot be sorted as the bags can damage equipment at sorting facilities and present a safety risk to staff.
Putting recycling in the bin loose means more of it can be turned into new things.
Djirra has a ‘very special energy’
For more than 20 years, Indigenous organisation Djirra has been committed to a future without family violence. One year since setting up in Melton, the goal remains the same as Eddie Russell reports.
Meteorologists would tell you that July 9, 2024, was a terrible day, with icy cold winds sweeping the landscape anddarkcloudsreleasinganincessantdrizzle of rain from the skies above.
However, bad weather could not dampen the mood of the 400 people who turned up to celebrate NAIDOC Week at Djirra in the West.
Amongthecrowdofwomen,children,staff, local businesses, and community figures was then Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney.
ShesaidtheimpactofDjirrawasnotlimited by geography and its ability to empower, inspire, and strengthen First Nations people was remarkable.
“I want to acknowledge the important contribution that Djirra makes, not just in this part of the world but right across Victoria,” she said.
“You power our communities for our communities through self determination.”
Ms Burney said in her eyes, NAIDOC Week is “about the future” and that Djirra’s engagement with youth year-round was critical.
‘‘ Djirra’s signature programs are designed by and for Aboriginal women. They are about keeping our women connected and safe, not isolated ’’
- Antoinette Braybrook
“In recent years, we’ve seen a generation of young Indigenous people putting up their hands and I know that you foster that here.”
The occasion coincided with the one year anniversary of the establishment of Djirra in the West, which allows the organisation to expand its reach and network of services to the western suburbs and beyond.
The homecoming has proven significant for chief executive Antoinette Braybrook.
Ms Braybrook, who is also co-chair of national Indigenous justice coalition Change The Record, said “the west is in my blood.”
“I grew up in Melton with my family… so I’m especially proud that Djirra is now such an established part of this community,” she said.
“Djirra in the West is an extraordinary place with a very special energy, and that energy comes from Aboriginal women.”
Djirra provides legal services, runs workshops, and advocates to government for Indigenous women who face family violence – which, unfortunately, is an all too common reality.
“If you are an Aboriginal woman in Victoria, you are 45 times more likely to experience family violence – perpetrated by men from all backgrounds – than other women,” Ms Braybrook said.
Toaddressthisdramaticoverrepresentation, Djirra places an emphasis on getting to the root of the issue to stop it before it happens or in its early stages.
Ms Braybrook said a variety of assistance was on offer to improve the livelihood and wellbeing of First Nations women.
“Our early intervention and prevention programsprovideyetanotheraccesspointfor Aboriginal women and girls to obtain advice from our specialist, legal, and non-legal support teams for their safety,” she said.
“They are essential to ending violence and it is critical that women have access to these programs.”
Being an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation means Djirra is in a stronger position to contact, communicate,
and connect with its audience, Ms Braybrook said.
“Djirra’s signature programs are designed by and for Aboriginal women. They are about keeping our women connected and safe, not isolated.
“The programs take Djirra into our communities and to our women so they don’t have to come to us directly.”
The Victorian Royal Commission into Family Violence has recognised Djirra’s programs as best-practice, particularly its wrap-around approach to the issue.
A wrap-around approach is a common philosophy of care used by organisations that encompasses a defined planning process and builds constructive support networks.
Djirra has four main early intervention and prevention programs: Young Luv, Sisters Day Out, Dilly Bag, and Koori Women’s Place. They provide a safe ways for women to learn about family violence and legal support available to them as well as how to access it.
Sisters Day Out is a one-day wellbeing workshop where Aboriginal women can get information about legal rights and engage with both mainstream and Aboriginal support services.
The sense of community and support present during the program encourages
attendees to share their experiences and, in turn, seek help, Ms Braybrook said.
“Sisters Day out builds trust and breaks downbarrierstoaccessingsafetyandsupport. Djirra’s lawyers, counsellors and case managers are available on the day if a woman chooses to access them confidentially.”
YoungLuv equips Aboriginal teenagers aged from 13 to 18 with the information they need to challenge unhealthy relationships and practise safe behaviours at a formative stage of their lives.
Ms Braybrook said having a communal space to reflect in allows participants to better understand the important issues affecting them.
“The success of Young Luv highlights the extent to which girls value the opportunity to come together in a culturally safe environment to discuss important issues for them with Aboriginal facilitators who understand and share their culture and community.”
The Dilly Bag program is a three-day retreat held on country that draws on cultural principles and heritage.
“This promotes healing and informs Aboriginal women … on how to live culturally safe and meaningful lives,” Ms Braybrook said.
These workshops not only promote and raise awareness of healthy relationships, reducing vulnerability to family violence, but also minimise social isolation as well.
The lack of judgement at Koori’s Women’s Place is “so crucial“ to healing, Ms Braybrook said.
“It provides Aboriginal women and children with a range of support, including free workshops and social activities, connection to one of our legal or non-legal services, or practical support like a warm winter coat and essential groceries.”
Prevention of Family Violence Minister Vicki Ward said the state government would continue to invest in Djirra in the West so it could keep delivering crucial services and championing Aboriginal women.
“It is important to me that we continue to support their work which builds confidence and connection to culture for so many women and girls,” she said.
“I look forward to continuing to work with Djirra as they offer emotional, cultural, and practical support to Aboriginal victim-survivors of family violence.”
Djirra in the West’s next event will be a wood
and
from 11am – 1pm on Thursday, August 29.
Details: https://djirra.org.au/
burning art
crafts circle
Main: Locals gathered in Kurunjang to celebrate NAIDOC Week at Djirra in the West. Left: Djirri Djirri dancers at the NAIDOC Week family day celebrations. Right: Antoinette Braybrook speaks at the event. (Pictures: T J Garvie Photography)
Celebrating the magic of reading
Schools, kindergartens, childcare centres and libraries across Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs are celebrating Children’s Book Week. The annual week, which this year runs from August 17-23, celebrates children’s literature. The theme for this year’s celebrations is ‘reading is magic’. Jaidyn Kennedy asked librarians to share their favourite children’s books.
Hobsons Bay librarian
Georgia Ensor
What is your favourite children’s book? Belonging by Jeannie Baker is one of my favourites (how could you ask a librarian to choose just one book? my head nearly exploded!). I like to read this book with children of all ages. Belonging is a wordless picture book so young children can ’read’ the images and engage with the story at the same level as an older sibling who might notice deeper messages. I love the hopeful message that we can make a positive change to our community through the gradual re-greening of our suburbs.
What is one children’s book everyone should read?
Wilam: A Birrarung Story, written by Yarra Riverkeeper Andrew Kelly and AboriginalElderoftheWurundjeripeople
Aunty Joy Murphy. The book shares both the Indigenous and geographical story of Melbourne’s beautiful Yarra River –Birrarung. The detailed illustrations by Lisa Kennedy sparkle with life! The story invites readers to connect to Country and taketimetostop,lookandthinkaboutthe living history around us. Books that are rooted in local places are really powerful as children feel connected to the story, especially when they spot the Westgate bridge!
Moorabool librarian
Sam Hartwig
What is your favourite children’s book?
The Wrong Book by Nick Bland. This is one of the first books I read to children at story time that ‘breaks the fourth wall’, it quickly became an instant favourite. The illustrations bring the book to life and it’s such a fun story that children of all ages will love. Also, a simple book week costumeideatodressupasNicholasIckle!
What’s one children’s book everyone should read?
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. A classic that has never been out of print since it’s release in the 1960’s. It introduces children to many themes such as the days of the week, different foods, counting and the life cycle of a butterfly. A must-have book for all children!
Lalor librarian
Deb Fothergill
What is your favourite children’s book?
My favourite children’s book isThe Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson. It has so much to offer, great rhyming and key words that children remember and anticipate, ‘his eyes are orange, his tongue is black; he has purple prickles all over his (wait for a response from the crowd …) back’. It is a good opportunity to talk about imagination, we know he is not real but that’s OK. There is also a great message about problem solving and how a very little mouse can outsmart a big bad Gruffalo.
What is one children’s book everyone should read?
For me
The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien is a wonderful read for an older child. It is anintroductiontoanamazingfantasyworld with beautiful language and imagery, a lesson in friendship, honour and adventure.
Romsey Librarian
Rae Good
What is your favourite children’s book? I can’t decide on just one. I’m going with Slinky Malinky Early Bird by Lynley Dodd as a favourite for home use when my own children were smaller, as Slinky Malinky was very similar to our cat. And I love Let’s Get a Pup by Bob Graham for the diversity shown in the illustrations.
What is one children’s book everyone should read?
Again, very difficult to answer, but I really love Wilfred Gordon McDonald Partridge by Mem Fox. The books I will be reading for story time during Children’s Book Week are early childhood book of the year nominees – The Concrete Garden by Bob Graham and One Little Duck by Katrina Germein and Danny Snell.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication
Melton South Community Centre
Melton South Community Centre offers a range of 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. The 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 to noon at the Avenue Bowling Club on 254 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh
Krystyna, bacchusmarshladiesprobus@ gmail.com
Community band
The Greater Western Community Band meets Thursdays from 7.30 – 9.30pm. Rehearsal venue is the Bridge Road Community Centre, Strathtulloh (Melton South). The band is available for events. Brass, woodwind and percussion players are always welcome.
Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582
Melton Ladies Probus Meets from 10am on the second Wednesday of each month at Melton Country Club on Reserve Road, Melton. All visitors are welcome.
Dianne, 9743 7446
Fishing club
Didyabringyarodalong Angling Club of Melton and Bacchus Marsh is a fishing club that welcomes and encourages people of all ages, genders and fishing abilities to partake in enjoying the outdoors in a relaxing and friendly environment. The club holds monthly fishing competitions at various locations, fresh and saltwater. New members are most welcome. Upcoming events will be listed on this page.
Andrew, 0407 303 438, or Wayne, 0414 785 366
Lights of Wisdom
The Bahá’ís of Moorabool invite you to Lights of Wisdom, a tranquil space to share the insights from the great spiritual traditions of mankind. Sessions will be held at the Lerderderg Library, Bacchus Marsh, every first Friday of the month. Starting time: 7.30pm. Entry is free.
mgilsant9@gmail.com
Seniors’ lunch
Deer Park Branch of National Seniors Australia hosts a lunch on the third Friday of each month at different venues. The group also arranges activities each month, sometimes to the theatre, morning melodies, train or bus trip. The group also holds a general meeting at The Club in Caroline Springs on the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm. Locals are invited to join in for lunch or just attend the meeting and make new friends.
Pamela, pcostello46@hotmail.com
Bacchus Marsh CWA
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 Monday to
Flower & Garden Show
Entries will soon open for the annual Bacchus Marsh Flower & Garden Show at the Town Hall. Flower and produce, cake decorating an photo competitions, plant sales, children’s activities and more! Save the date for a local family event on the weekend of October 26-27, 2024.
Nicki Paull, 0418 363 305
Wednesday 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 Street). 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-noon. New and potential members are welcome to attend events.
bacchus.cwa@gmail.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
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
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
Take weight off naturally
Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Weight Off Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton.
Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739
Melton Friendship Group
An over-55’s singles friendship group for social engagements, fun outings, dinners, movies, dancing chats and walks. Enrich your life, no more loneliness or isolation. Nothing but fun and friendships.
0406 493 734
Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club
The Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 10am at Melton Country Club. New members welcome.
Ann, 0425 705 150
Melton South Knit & Natter
All are welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa.
9747 8576
Zonta club meets Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton.
Janet, 0421 080 923 or info@zontaclubofmelton.org.au
(Shutterstock)
A colourful Punjabi celebration
By Eddie Russell
Moorabool residents can look forward to a special Punjabi celebration on Sunday, August 25.
Unite Foundation, a Bacchus Marsh based not-for-profit organisation, will host its Teeyan Bacchus Deeyan from noon to 5pm at Bacchus Marsh Public Hall.
Teeyan is a festival that takes place throughout Punjab and focuses on daughters, sisters, and mothers.
ItgoesfromApriltoAugust–atimeinIndia when the onset of the monsoon occurs.
Organiser Navi Neelon said the occasion was
a sort of homecoming for women who had left home to start a family and new life.
“The word Deeyan is like daughters,” she said.“Mymumandherfriendswhowerenewly married used to come back to their parent’s house and get together with old friends, sisters, and mothers.”
The traditional celebrations are a way to reconnect with home and community, said Neelon.
“Whenthemonsooncame,girlscouldgoout and celebrate by dancing and singing – there was no social media [back then].”
“In the old times, girls weren’t let out… so it was a celebration, but now it is a way to leave
your stress at home and have fun.”
The event was originally going to take place at Darley Park Community Centre but due to demand there was a need to upsize the venue.
Neelon said the event was “very beautiful” and that attendees would not go “empty handed”.
“They will come and see that they are in Punjab – there are a lot of prizes and gifts as well as food on offer.”
On top of that, three different dance groups made up of kids, teens, and women will all be there.
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/ events/landing/1265621
Musical showcase is a ‘huge effort’
The musical talents of the Hobsons Bay City BandwillbeonshowattheAltonaCityTheatre onSunday,whenthebandtakesthestageforits annual concert.
Band members have been preparing for the performance for the past three to four months under the guidance of musical director Wayne Bowden.
Band vice president and French horn player Roger Lewis said the concert was shaping up to be a great showcase.
“There are some really challenging pieces. It’s been a huge effort,” he said.
“The annual concert is where we deliver the
really challenging work. It is where we really get to show what we can do.”
Lewis said the concert would feature music which would appeal to people of all ages, with the band to perform Frank Sinatra hits, music from Wicked the musical and modern pieces such as Fanfare for the Next Generation, among other works.
He said the piece which stood out for him was Vesuvius, which he described as a piece written for a concert band.
“It’s very percussive and dynamic with beautiful melodies throughout,” he said.
“Everyone has a starring role in this one.”
Sunday’s concert will feature about 28 of the band’s members playing reed, brass and percussion instruments.
Lewis, who has been in the band for 10 years, said members ranged in age from young studentstoseniorsintheir80s.“Thereisnoage limit, it is all about the music,” he said.
The Hobsons Bay City Band annual performance is at Altona City Theatre on August 25, from 3pm. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for concession and are available at the door. Details: hbcb.org.au
Laura Michell
Dorothy and friends’ concert spectacular
Dorothy and her Wiggly friends will be doing the dippy do dinosaur dance all the way to Wyndham later this year.
The beloved green and yellow dinosaur is touringAustraliafortheDorothytheDinosaur Spectacular Show and will be stopping at Events Encore Centre in Hoppers Crossing for a cup of rosy tea and some top-tapping fun.
Youngsters (and their parents) will be able to Romp-Bomp-a-Stomp to The Wiggles’ greatest hits including Rock-A-Bye Your Bear, Hot Potato and Do the Propeller, with Dorothy and her friends to perform an array of show-stopping songs.
The mega mix of hits is sure to have fans shaking their hips with Wags the Dog,
St Albans Secondary hit the stage
St Albans Secondary College is hitting the stage this week, with a production of We Will Rock You by English playwright Ben Elton.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, where issues of famine and climate change have been addressed through technology, the remnant human race thrives in settlements designed and run by large corporations.
Working together, putting differences aside and utilising technology, safe settlements were established.
The hero, Galileo, is drawn into rebellion, his dreams lead him along a dangerous path where he encounters a group of misfits – the ‘Bohemians’.
The production includes many of the memorable hit tunes of the English pop band Queen.
Director Melissa Tamraz said she couldn’t wait to have the show unveiled this week.
“Following the success of Cinderella, Time After Time, I was excited to have been appointed as the director of this year’s production for the Musical Appreciation Club (MAC),” she said.
“I took a risk in proposing a show that was more rock concert than musical.
“This year, we have a young cast and crew with many students acting for the first time, some in lead roles.
“MAC has a proud tradition at the school and many past students return each year to contribute or simply to enjoy the show. It is a place where students build confidence, discover hidden talents, make lifelong friends, and learn to value and appreciate the arts.”
The show premiered on Monday, August 19, but plays again on Tuesday, August 20, before one final show on Thursday, August 22.
Shows are at 7pm at the school’s performing arts centre.
moving their arms like Henry the Octopus and singing ‘quack, quack’ with Captain Feathersword.
Tickets for the first show at 10am October 1 have sold out with tickets, for a second show now available – but get in quick because they are sure to go like hot potatoes!
The second show is at 12.30pm on October 1.
Seating for this show is general admission and seats are not reserved at the time of booking. Both adults and children will require a ticket. Children under 12 months old will not require a ticket for entry but will be required to sit on the lap of a parent or guardian
Details: https://thewiggles.com/dorothy
Dorothy the Dinosaur is coming to Hoppers Crossing. (Supplied)
Navi Neelon, Kumari Rai, Paramjeet Bagri and Harmel Kaur in their traditional garments for Teeyan. (Damjan Janevski 425336_03
Gerald Lynch
St Albans Secondary students Api and DT, who are part of the We Will Rock You performance. (Damjan Janevski) 425271_05
The Hobsons Bay City Band members Cathy Finn, Murray Smith, Hannah Prouse and Roger Lewis. (Damjan Janevski) 424372_02
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Melbourne-born cyclist Neve Bradbury placed third in the 2024 edition of which international race?
2. Which country has won every women’s team archery gold medal since the event’s inception in 1988?
3. Where have the Winter X Games been held every year since 2002?
4. In swimming relays, does the term ‘anchor leg’
6. Sir Donald Bradman scored a total of how many runs in his Test career?
7. Both from the same Australian state, what are the only two AFL clubs that have never used a No.1 draft pick?
8. How old is Australian Olympic gold medallist skateboarder Arisa Trew?
9. Chinese freestyle gold medallist Pan Zhanle accused which Australian swimmer of snubbing him in the opening days of the 2024 Olympics?
Which country is credited with invention of the game darts?
Caitlin Parker and Charlie Senior both won Olympic medals for Australia in what
In snooker, which coloured ball is worth two points?
13. What animal did Arisa Trew's parents agree to buy her as a present for winning gold?
14. Cameron Murray is the current captain of which NRL team?
15. What was the only nation the Matildas defeated at the 2024 Paris Olympics?
16. Test cricketer Graham Thorpe played for which country?
17. Retiring AFL player Andrew Gaff has played his entire career with which team?
18. The GWS Giants play home matches in which other capital city besides Sydney?
19. How many combined Paralympic Games medals did Dylan Alcott win in both wheelchair tennis and wheelchair basketball?
20. RAC Arena is located in which Australian capital city?
21. Australian hockey player Tom Craig was arrested during the Olympics for allegedly buying what?
22. The Australian men’s basketball team lost against Serbia in the quarterfinal at the Olympics despite leading by how many points during the second quarter?
23. Former Australian Test opener Joe Burns now represents which country in international cricket?
24. Which country defeated Egypt 6-0 at the Olympics to win a bronze medal in the men’s soccer event?
25. Nicola Olyslagers won Olympic silver in which event?
26. Port Adelaide thrashed ladder-leaders Sydney by how many points in Round 21 of the AFL?
27. Wayne Bennett will return to which NRL club as head coach beginning in 2025?
28. What is the name of the Big Bash-style T20 cricket tournament being staged during August in the Northern Territory?
29. What are the names of the official mascots of the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games?
30. True or false: tennis great Novak Djokovic won his first Olympic gold medal at Paris 2024?
SUNBURY Officespace availableforrentin Sunbury.Mustbeanonprofitorcommunity organisation.Forfurther information,please contactKarenon0418 526096$250p/w sunspecinc@bigpond.com
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every
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 Flower (5)
4 Mitigation (9)
9 Thespian (5)
10 Banishment (9)
11 Chore (6)
12 Flirt (8)
14 Railway vehicle (10)
15 Freckle (3)
17 Vegetable (3)
19 Credit card brand (10)
23 Of late (8)
24 Carefree (6)
26 Partner (9)
27 Intending (coll) (5)
28 Ancient Greece’s so-called father of history (9)
29 Cleverly escape (5)
DOWN
1 Stopping devices (6)
2 Canadian province (7)
3 Napoleonic battle (7)
4 Riding (4)
5 Permitted (10)
6 Obliteration (7)
7 Had being (7)
8 Fierce storms (8)
13 Adviser (10)
16 Come nearer to (8)
18 Plaintiff (7)
19 Imperiled (7)
20 Toiletry (7)
21 Domed building (7)
22 Caesar (6)
25 Scottish loch (4)
3
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
Excellent Today’s Aim:
6 words: Good 9 words: Very good 13
I U N
1 What is the silkworm’s preferred food plant?
2 Which former English monarch is known as Good Queen Bess?
3 What are the names of Queen Mary’s (pictured) twins?
4 Who were the inaugural winners of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901?
5 In which state or territory is the Barkly Tableland located?
6 The 2007 film The Mist is based on a novella by which author?
7 Who composed the opera Don Giovanni?
8 True or false: persimmon is a citrus fruit?
9 Who was the first Australian to play in the NBA?
10 What is the world’s smallest owl?
The carnival seems far from over
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
The Carnival continues to be a popular attraction, despite people movers making way for SUVs.
Like Toyota did with Tarago’s radical rebirth as the ‘egg’ in the 1990s, Kia has rewritten the people mover rules to produce a GUV (Grand Utility Vehicle).
The Carnival is quite unlike any car we’ve craftedbefore,saystheSouthKoreancarmaker. Fusing SUV-inspired design with a unique attitude, the Carnival uses progressive styling that boasts an aesthetic like no other.
Featuring a luxurious interior for eight, lavishly equipped with next-generation Kia technology, the Carnival allows driver and passengers to travel in grand comfort and style. “We didn’t just build a people mover; we upgraded it to a GUV (Grand Utility Vehicle).”
The ‘Grandeur’ did not come without its sacrifices: Carnival no longer comes to market under 50 grand and the flagship GT-Line tops off the fleet at $72,910. Choose from SmartStream 3.5-litre V6 petrol or a SmartStream 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine for an efficient everyday drive.
A smooth eight-speed automatic transmission is available on both models. A hybrid, to surface soon, will make use of a 1.6-litre petrol motor.
With five Carnival variants, prices open at $50,150, plus on road costs for the petrol V6 S, while the range tops out at $72,910 for the GT-Line diesel. On test was the GT-Line Lite diesel on offer for $68,580. The GT-Line HEV hybrid will top out the lot at $76,210 when it arrives.
The Carnival continues to be backed by Kia’s seven-year unlimited-kilometre warranty and free one-year roadside assistance.
Styling
The MY25 Carnival may be big, but on the outside, designers were unashamedly worshipping at the altar of modern-day minimalism. It’s smooth going all round, with nary a hint of unnecessary embellishment.
Not that it’s bland, by any means. Kia says it called on the electric EV9 and reworked ICE SUV Sorento with the new car’s pedigree. Unlike other models of its ilk, new Carnival owes more to the SUV than the van.
A broader grille, flanked by vertical LED headlamps, and LED daytime running lights give the Carnival a solid stance, while the clean uncomplicated rear is highlighted by a full width LED strip.
The GUV rides on large 19-inch machined alloy wheels, with styling cues lifted from the EV9. There’s no fighting for attention from laidback chrome styling elements.
Interior
The Carnival is built for transporting big families and their clobber. With improved interior dimensions due to a longer wheelbase, increased length and width, generous leg, head and shoulder room is available all around.
As well as seating for eight, there is still generous luggage space of 627 litres with all seat backs up. Folding down the second and third row exposes an incredible 2827 litres of luggage space. Second-row seats also fold down and slide forward, while a 60:40 split third row gives even greater flexibility.
Power sliding rear doors open automatically afterafewsecondswhenasmartkeyisdetected next to the vehicle. Similarly, power tailgate auto-close shuts automatically when it detects the user with the smart key leaving.
Three-step adjustable ventilated front seats and heated front and rear seats offer a comfortable travelling environment. With 12-way power driver’s seat including four-way lumbar support and two memory settings, preferred exterior mirror and driver seat positions can also be stored.
With Smart Temperature Comfort Control, the car automatically switches on the driver’s heated seat/steering wheel or ventilated seat if there’s a major difference between the climate
control setting and the cabin temperature. Open up the sky for the whole family via split a tilt-and-slide sunroof.
Infotainment
A class-leading 12.3-inch driver instrument clusterand12.3-inchinfotainmenttouchscreen display driving information and data. A user-friendly interface allows pinch, zoom, swipe and customisation with split view.
Over-The-Air technology enables software and map updates directly to the vehicle while on the move. These updates improve key vehicle functions, such as powertrain, steering, suspension, electric motor, battery, airbags, and advanced driver assistance systems.
Keep eyes on the road with the windscreen colour head-up display, focusing on driver alerts, vehicle speed, and turn-by-turn navigation instructions.
Using a camera in the rear spoiler, the digital interior mirror provides improved visibility unhindered by luggage, seats, passengers, water or stains on rear glass. A simple toggle can return the digital image to a standard electro-chromatic mirror if preferred.
Quality sound from a Bose 12-speaker audio can be augmented by distinctive 3-D colour customisable mood lighting. Wireless smartphone fast charging is available, as well as through intuitively placed USB charge ports for outboard passengers.
Engines/transmissions
The four-cylinders inline turbodiesel engine delivers 148kW of power and 440Nm of torque
drivingthefrontwheelsthroughaneight-speed automatic transmission. Kia claims the motor uses 6.5 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres on the combined urban/highway cycle, while putting out carbon dioxide emissions of 170g per 100km.
The test vehicle recorded consumption of 8.2 litresofdieselper100kilometresinthecityand 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the open road. The maker recommends the diesel particulate filter system be occasionally ‘cleaned’ by an extended run of consistent higher-speed motoring.
Safety
With the wellbeing of up to eight Carnival occupants, safety is paramount, resulting in a five-star ANCAP rating.
Standard systems include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist, plusjunctiondetection,lanedeparturewarning and lane keeping assistance, blind-spot assist and rear cross-traffic alert. Up front is high beam assist.
On the move there’s adaptive cruise control, intelligent speed limit assist, multi-collision braking and trailer stability control, reversing cameraandfrontandrearparkingsensors,and rear occupant alert. Connected services with SOS call function is at hand for crashes.
Carnival Sport adds Highway Driving Assist 1, while Sport+ and above take on parking collision avoidance – rear (AEB reverse), blind-spot view monitor, 360-degree camera, junction cross, lane oncoming, lane direct avoidance and Highway Driving Assist 2.
Finally,there’ssteering,braking,accelerating and stop-start traffic jam assistance.
Driving
Surprisingly no slouch off the mark, the inevitable diesel engine note did intrude into the cabin, but not enough to be an annoyance. Braking was also more efficient than expected.
As mentioned above, diesel consumption was pretty much in line with the maker’s claim of 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle, the test car recording 8.2 litresper100kilometresusedincitycommuting and 5.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the open road.
Covid put the kybosh on any Aussie suspensiontuningpreviously,butKiaclaimsto have rectified this with the MY25 model being modified Down Under. It has: ride is smooth and unfussy, handling is impressively akin to that of a smaller vehicle.
Carnival can match any of four different drivingmodes–Normal,Eco,SportandSmart. Finally, there’s the ersatz mode: the drive you’re having when you’re not driving – the GT-Line gets Remote Smart Park Assist, allowing owners to manoeuvre their vehicle out of a tight parking space from outside the car using the key fob. Impressive!
Summary
SUV, move over for the GUV. And, while the GT-Line diesel has many ‘what’s not to love’ features all round, it’s basically down to price differential between the Lite and ‘Heavy’.
The Carnival is built for transporting big families and their clobber. (Pictures: Supplied)
Pondering what might have been. 425636_56
Werribee Centrals’ Khayle Forsyth and Caroline Springs’ Dijana Vasilevska. 425677_06
Burnside Heights’ Kynesha Barker. 425636_13
Burnside Heights’ Holly McGregor and Brodie Stevens share a moment. 425636_54
Caroline Springs’ Shekeine De Satge. 425677_04
Caroline Springs celebrate a goal. 425677_14
Caroline Springs’ Jasmine Bongiovanni. 425677_27
Five years ago a dream became a reality as Western United made its first steps onto the field in a practice match against Caroline Springs George Cross.
The two teams, who shared City Vista RecreationReserve,willdobattleonThursday night again, exactly five years since that first match.
United assistant coach Andrew Durante can’t remember the exact scoreline, but remembers the first match well. He was part of that first team to take to the park.
“It has flown,” he said. “It is crazy.
“I remember it being a huge occasion being the new team in the league.
“It was our first competitive game and putting on the jersey, walking out in front oa lot of fans.
“City Vista was packed as people came to see what it looked like.”
The United team was stacked on that first night.
For the record, Western United won 4-0 with Valentino Yuel, Pain, Dylan Pierias and Apostolos Stamatelopoulos the goal scorers.
“We were excited to get out there and play,” Durante said.
Going back to City Vista for the game brings back a lot of memories for Durante.
He said the venue would always hold a special place in the hearts of United, with the club based for much of the first five years
“They helped us out at the beginning,” Durante said. “The facility was fantastic and what we needed.
“Georgies will always be a part of our club. To go back there five years to the day is pretty amazing.
“They are a proud part of our history and there’s great people at both clubs.”
Having moved full time to Ironbark Fields in Tarneit it’s been a different off season for United.
Durante said the concept of their own
By Tara Murray
Mathew Sproule ends his time as Melton Centrals coach on a high with an upset win against Diggers Rest on Saturday in the Riddell District Football League.
Sproule, who was in his second stint as Centrals coach, announced to the playing group before the final round that he would be stepping down.
Sproule, who lives in Ocean Grove, said while he loves the club and group, it was the best decision for him.
“There’s too much travel,” he said. “When your son says to you after round two that it’s too much travel and you have too much work on, you know deep down.
“I told the club on Thursday. Hopefully they’ll announce some recruits in the next week or two and get things organised for next season.”
CentralsonSaturdayhadoneoftheirbiggest wins in a number of years and of Sproule’s
time, knocking off Diggers Rest.
WhiletheBurrashadlittletoplayfor,having already locked up a double chance, the win was still a special one.
“It was a pleasant surprise to finish that way,” Sproule said. “The playing group the last two weeks has shown a lot of motivation and played out the season really well.
“They’re a great group and turn up every night and it was nice to reward them.”
Sproule said with a couple of big milestones the last couple of rounds, the group really bought it and wanted to honour their mates.
On Saturday, the Centrals got the win against the Burras, 8.3 (51)-5.15 (45).
It was close all day with Centrals leading by 11 points heading into the final quarter.
They were able to hold on as the Burras came hard in the last quarter.
Sproule said they knew they had to shut down Mitch Day and Mitch Jensen if they were to get the win.
“We kept their impact to a minimum,” he
stadium was something that had attracted him to sign with the club to start with.
He said it would be nice for the supporters who have travelled around Victoria to watch them being able to come to their home base.
It’s been an off season of change for United with a different looking squad to the last couple of years.
Durante said it was an exciting time for the club.
“It’s fantastic to see yong players from thea academy system get scholarships into the first team,” he said.
“It’s fantastic for the club to come into the first team environment and there are good senior players as well.
“A full season at Taneir tis great.
“It will really help results. I’m excited about it.”
Western United will face Caroline Springs George Cross on August 22 from 7pm.
Jamie Lobb steps down
Jamie Lobb will finish up as Diggers Rest coach at the end of the season, with one of the competition’s best players named as his replacement.
The Riddell District Football League club announced on Friday that Lobb had decided not to continue on next season.
“Jamie and the club have been discussing his tenure throughout the season and while our preference was to maintain Jamie in the role, he has indicated that he would like to spend more time with his family,” the club said in a statement.
“Fortunately for the club Jamie will not be lost to us, and he has committed to staying involved with the club in an off-field role for season 2025 and beyond.
“Jamie has an incredible record as senior coach and in the four completed seasons (two cancelled and one pending) that Jamie has led the club we have had two senior premierships, three reserves premierships and a runner up which highlightsthestrengthoftheclubduring his reign.
“Jamie has also been a great support to the committee during his tenure and has always worked hard on sponsorship, functions and anything else the club required from him.
“We feel comfortable in saying that nobody has had a bigger impact on the club since he took over as coach in what has been a very successful period.”
While Lobb is stepping back, Shaun Campbell will take over as a coach.
United to face George Cross exactly five years on Sproule goes out on high
said. “ Jonny Ferri did the job on Day. He’s been beaten twice for the year.
“Dylan McDonald was on Jensen. He kicked a couple of goals, but there were a couple of times that no one was stopping him.
“The backline was great.”
Brad Layton kicked five goals in a best on ground performance. Sproule said it was his best game for the club and that he had benefited from the return of Milan Savic, who helped with the forward structure.
The win was Centrals third for the year, with the other two coming against bottom side Lancefield.
Sproule said with a lack of depth and numbers overall, it had been tough season.
“We lost six or eight players,” he said. “It was a little big challenging and we didn’t have the numbers in the twos.”
Sproule said he wasn’t planning on coaching anywhere else next season.
HesaidhewasopentootherrolesatCentrals depending on the circumstances.
Campbelljoinedtheclubthisyearfrom Parkside and had an instant impact. His coaching background involves being an assistant coach for the Western Bulldogs AFLW program.
“Shaun has a strong reputation as a leader and has had success in previous coaching roles at Wagga Tigers as well as recent experience at the elite level,” the Burras said.
“After joining us earlier this year Shaun has impressed everyone with his football nous, relationship building and commitment to his preparation.
“Shaun and the club are extremely excited about the role and will look to make further announcements about playersre-signings,assistantcoachesand recruits in the coming weeks.”
On Saturday, the Burras suffered a shock loss to Melton Centrals.
Tara Murray
Joining Durante in the team included Alessandro Diamanti, Ersan Gulum, Scott McDonald and Connor Pain.
Bradley Layton. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 409292_32
Back- Ross Vassiliadis, Tyler James, Andrew Durante, Michael Vonja and Sebastian Pasquali. Front- Sienna Muscat, Kenan Cindrak, Benjamin Cindrak, Elisa Cindrak.(Supplied)
Sharks knocked out in straight sets
Hillside’s return to Essendon District Football League women’s premier division finals has ended in a straight sets exit.
Having been the minor premiers, with just one loss for the regular season, the Sharks proved no match for Oak Park and on Saturday Aberfeldie.
Abers dominated the preliminary final with the game over at half time, with the margin 30 points.
While the second half wasn’t as free flowing on the scoreboard, the damage had already been done.
Abers claimed the win, 9.3 (57)-3.3 (21) to win through to a fourth straight grand final, with the two Covid-19 seasons in the middle.
Sharks coach Blaise Ferraro said you have to fire at the right time of the season and they didn’t.
“Very rarely do you go from the bottom of the ladder to a premiership in the same year,” he said.
“They bought some top end talent and we were missing a few players, that was the main difference in the end.
“Their ball use was a lot above ours and that hasbeenaweaknessallyearandthatshowed.”
The Sharks had a few outs heading into the game and that was compounded by skipper Hannah Ibrahim being a late out.
It meant they had to shuffle their midfield around and they had several players playing their first season game for the season.
Ferraro said they started the game OK before a few mistakes allowed Abers to start to put some scoreboard pressure on.
“Their entries inside 50 we could not stop,” he said. “Hannah being a late out didn’t help.”
Yara Taylor, Lisa Parisi and Caitlin Sargent were named the Sharks best.
Sargent, who won the league’s goal kicking, finished with two goals.
Ferraro said the loss was part of the journey and they would only be better for this season
He said they couldn’t have expected the season they’d had when it first started.
“They made a commitment to each other and it was pretty much a new group,” he said.
“The buy-in was there during the year.
“You have to be at your best at the right time of the year and we weren’t. Abers have been up there for the last couple of years and haven’t been able to get over the line [2022-23].
“It doesn’t just happen as you want it to. Next year we’ll come back even stronger.”
Meanwhile, the Sharks division 1 men finished the regular season in third spot after a final round loss to Maribyrnong Park.
TheSharksfaceWestCoburginaqualifying final this weekend.
Josh Covelli needs two goals for the game to kick his 100th.
Tara Murray
The Bears fall just short
By Tara Murray
Burnside Heights was left to rue missed chances as it fell just short of its first ever Essendon District Football League women’s premiership.
The division 1 grand final on Saturday was theBearsfirstgrandfinalsincetheirinaugural year in 2018.
Having finished on top, the Bears made the grand final the hard way after losing to Greenvale in the first week of finals.
They won the preliminary to set up another clash with Greenvale in the grand final.
The Bears led by a goal at quarter time on Saturday before the Jets kicked the first four goals of the second quarter.
A goal after the siren to the Bears made the margin 13 points at half time before it was goal for goal in the third quarter.
Both teams missed shots early in the last quarter before the Bears kicked a goal after a 50 metre penalty nearly 11 minutes into the quarter to reduce the margin to a goal.
The Bears tried everything to get a goal to leave the scores, but with no success.
A point with a minute to go for the Jets was enough to seal an 8.4 (52)-7.3 (45) win and the premiership.
Bears coach Michael Davis said they didn’t take their chances when they were there.
“In the last quarter we had enough inside 50s and we didn’t take our chances,” he said. “A few calls didn’t go our way either.
“I’m extremely proud of them. To get within seven points of winning the whole competition, is something to be proud of.
“That second group of players have gotten better and the stars have been phenomenal.”
Davis said when he took over at the start of the year they were hopeful of getting into the grand final after going out in straight sets last season.
He said the grand final was a higher level of football from what they’d faced throughout the season.
“One of the under-18s who played said to me she’d never played a game like that before,” he said.
“I said welcome to senior footy.”
Kayla Ravanello kicked three goals for the Bears, while Bella Negri.
Krissy Trang, Holly McGregor and Payton-Ani Ozols were named the best.
Trang was awarded the best on ground medal after getting her side going in the middle of the ground in the second half.
Davis said Trang, who has won two league best and fairest awards, keeps getting better.
“She is an inspirational leader and person,” he said. “She started the season slowly before getting into her groove.
“She works harder than everyone else from her team and the opposition.”
Davis said once the disappointment settles they will focus on going one step further next year.
The club has a number of under-18s who will come into the senior program.
Sports shorts
RDFNL
Finals match ups are locked in for the Riddell District Football Netball League. In the senior football, Riddell has the week off, while Diggers Rest will face Wallan in the qualifying final. Romsey and Macedon will play in an elimination final. In the A-grade netball, Wallan and Riddell will play in the qualifying final and Macedon will face Melton Centrals in the elimination final. Woodend-Hesket has the week off. The qualifying finals will be held on Saturday at Romsey Park and the elimination finals on Sunday at Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve.
Ballarat FL
Melton had a day out against Lake Wendouree in the Ballarat Football League on Saturday. The Bloods jumped out of the blocks and led eight goals to two at the first break. It was a sign of things to come with the Bloods winning, 30.12 (192)-8.4 (52). Ryan Carter and Braedan Kight kicked six goals each, with Jaycob Hickey named best on ground, Elsewhere, third-placed Darley won the local battle against Bacchus Marsh, 15.11 (101)-11.1 (77).
Western FL
Top spot will be in the line in the final round of the Western Football League division 1 competition. Caroline Springs locked in a top two finish with a 13.10 (88)-9.8 (62) win against Point Cook Centrals on Saturday. The Lakers enter the final round of the season two points behind Werribee Districts. The two teams face each other in the final round.
Ballarat NL
Darley kept its hopes of a top two finish in the Ballarat Netball League. The Devils faced local rival Bacchus Marsh on Saturday and was able to come away with an 82-21 win. The Devils sit in third heading into the final round. A win in the final round and a loss to North Ballarat would have the Devils finish second. Melton South, which has a bye in the final round, finished the regular season with a 54-30 win.
“We had four of them play at various times togetafeelofwhatitisabout,”hesaid.“There’s seven who are ready to play senior football. “Hopefully the older ones will stick around as well.”
Yara Taylor. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 416139_07
Krissy Trang. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 425636_44
Darley to contest a third straight grand final
Darley is through to a third straight Ballarat Football League women’s grand final and kept its hopes of back-to-back premierships alive.
The Devils produced a stunning display in the second half of its semi final with local rival Bacchus Marsh to come away with a 15.15 (105)-1.1 (7) win.
DevilscoachBrettFaulkheadsaidthegroup was really excited and so proud of what they had achieved so far.
“We have worked damn hard to get to this point,” he said. “We’ve had a lot of injuries and a lot of road blocks this year.
“We had one game where we played five under-16 players to come up and help us out. The girls’ resilience and the culture they are building is growing every week.”
The Devils went in as favourites against the Cobras but it was the Cobras that had won the last meeting between the teams.
Faulkhead said they were keen to put out a strong performance against the Cobras.
“The girls didn’t shirk the situation and they
pulled together,” he said. “It meant a lot for the club because at the end was the reward of playing in a grand final in two weeks time or playing in Redan in a preliminary final.
“The girls made their decision.”
While the Devils led 40-6 at half time, the Devils weren’t happy. Faulkhead said they knew they could play better football.
“The first half was a bit scrappy and not our normal game,” he said. “We talked at half time about what was missing and the things we needed to do.
“The second half we played our own game and showed what we had been working on this year. It paid off.”
Faulkhead said the Cobras stuck with them for half game but the Devils extra polish showed in the second half.
Kim Bessell kicked six goals for the Devils, while Madalyn Clarke kicked four goals.
Faulkhead said everyone really contributed to the win.
“The leadership group took part in the
discussion at half time,” he said. “Everyone contributed.
“If you have a weak link on a chain, the link will break and we didn’t have one.”
Tara and Erin Keenan, and Zaylie Le Huray were the Cobras best.
The Devils now get the week off before the grand final while the Cobras will face Redan, which beat East Point.
Faulkhead said having been in the same spot last year, they know the luxury of having the week off.
“We’ve got a few niggles and it gives them time to recoup,” he said. “We’ll put in the rehab and get them right.
“The hard part will be picking the 24 for the grand final. We had a few back this week and maybe one or two more back for the grand final.
“We’re very proud of what we have been able to achieve this year.”
Caroline Springs through
Caroline Springs is through to a fifth straight Western Football League women’s grand final.
The Lakers became the first team through to the grand final with a good win against minor premiers Werribee Centrals on Saturday.
The Lakers jumped out to an 11 point lead at the first break and the margin was still seven points at the break.
Three goals to one in the third quarter increasedtheleadto19pointsatthefinalbreak.
The Lakers managed to hold the momentum in the final quarter to win, 8.6 (54)-5.9 (39).
Lakers coach Alex O’Shea said it was pretty exciting to be through to another grand final.
“We’re rapt and we’re still letting it sink in,” she said on Sunday. “The girls did well.
“Werribee was on top and we knew it would be a challenge and we played some really good footy.
“Weweren’texpectinganythingcominginto the game.”
O’Shea said going into the finals they knew everyteaminthetopfourcouldbeateachother in what had been a really competitive season.
Against the Centurions, she said the playing group stuck to the task at hand all day.
“I thought the girls played a great team game,” she said. “They played as a team and played their role for the team and did it for the four quarters.
“Werribee came at us at different times and we had the ability to stay composed and regrouped and that ability got us the win.”
O’Shea said the experience of the past few years in finals had really helped in some of those pressure moments.
She said you don’t know what to expect in finals, but there are key moments you have to take and they took them.
“We focused on what we want to work on as a team and we know in those moments what to do,” O’Shea said.
Jacinta Kondis continued her good form with five goals up front for the Lakers.
Alana Ellis, Jordin Williamson and Hannah Herring were named the best.
O’Shea said she didn’t think there were any standouts and that it was a real team effort.
The Lakers now have the week off before the grand final.
They will face the winner of Werribee Centrals and Parkside Spurs preliminary final in the grand final.
O’Shea said the grand final would be a whole different ball game and they will forget about what has happened in the past.
It will be a different preparation for the Lakers heading into this grand final.
“We’ve never had the week off and gone straight into the grand final,” O’Shea said.
“We’ve played in the one versus two game on a number of occasions but always played the following week.
“It’s a bit of a different feeling. We’ll look to managetrainingandemotionsforthenexttwo weeks.
“We’re grateful to be there and we’ve worked hard all season. We’ll recover well and prepare for whoever we face.”
Tara Murray
New Melton Thoroughbreds women’s coach Richard Morin wants to help the side go even further in the Country Basketball League north-west season.
The Thoroughbreds will have a women’s team for the third time this season having progressed both seasons.
Last season the Thoroughbreds made thefinalsbeforebeingbeatenbyeventual champions Bendigo Braves. Morin, who was assistant coach last season, said he was excited by the new opportunity.
“I’ve been coaching for a number of years and I was an assistant coach for the youth league [Big V] at the Ballarat Miners in the season that just finished,” he said.
“I’ve coached basketball at VJBL [Victorian Junior Basketball League] level for a number of years. This role was appealing to me as we did really well last year.
“It’s a young team and we made the finals last year. Another opportunity to have another go at it and I think we can take these girls further.”
Morin said early conversations with last season’s playing group was that most were going to come to try outs and were keen to be part of the team again.
One area the side did lack last season was experience. Last season the average age of the playing group was 15 with the oldest player 18.
“I’ve made some calls to try and get some older heads,” Morin said. “If they do come it will be great.
“It would be nice to get a few older heads for a more of a leadership role, that was something we lacked last season with an inexperienced side.”
Morin said he put a five year plan to theThoroughbredscommitteeinregards to where he saw the program heading. Morin is also keen on re-establishing a female Big V presence.
“The idea is hopefully these girls want to be part of that. Hopefully we can build the women’s program up again and put Melton back on the map in the Big V.” Trials for the women’s side are on August 21 and 25.
Details:https://tinyurl.com/335m3wnf
Tara Murray
Emmerson Hitch. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 420267_01
Nyomi Stowers. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 425677_01
