Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 17th September 2024

Pie oh my! What a win

Melton’s Buddy’s Bakery has been awarded the Best Plain Meat Pie in the 35th annual Great Aussie Pie Competition.

The High Street patisserie’s chunky pie was selected as the winner by The Pie Council, much to the delight of baker Sarel Hok.

“I’m very surprised but very happy … I love doing my job and I’m glad Melton is home to the best pie,” he said. While Hok was reluctant to reveal his secrets, he emphasised the importance of great flavor from bottom to top.

“Some people love to eat a good pie with tomato sauce, and that’s fine, but if the pie has great flavour then they don’t need it.”

The award will be prominently displayed in the shop, and word has quickly spread, with customers traveling from across Victoria to try Buddy’s award-winning pie.

As a result of the win, Buddy’s Bakery will receive a $500 cash prize, a new oven, and various other products and vouchers.

Eddie Russell

Buddy’s Bakery owner Mey Sok with the award. (Damjan Janevski) 431222_03

Shopping centre shelved

By Eddie Russell

Plans to build a Westfield shopping centre in Mt Atkinson have been abandoned, leaving locals in the lurch on “desperately needed” facilities.

The retail destination was meant to sit in the heart of the 30-hectare town centre and act as a commercial hub for the 12,000 residents in Mt Atkinson and Deanside.

A spokesperson from Scentre Group, which own and operate all Westfields in Australia, said the deal fell through due to a lack of feasibility for the company.

“We had explored this potential opportunity with Mount Atkinson Holdings for a significant period of time and could

not reach an agreement that we believe would deliver a commercially viable project for Scentre Group,” the spokesperson said.

It is a major setback for locals, who can spend an hour commuting on Hopkins Road or the Western Freeway just to get groceries.

However, residents like Lavan Ruben are staying positive about the future.

“There is a business case for someone to come and join us down the track,” he said.

“It’s palatable to private investment – with tens of thousands of residents in neighbouring estates, as soon as shops come we will be spending there.”

Mr Ruben conceded the situation was “not ideal” and said homeowners were angered by

the backflip.

“I’mfrustrated–that’sthesentiment.Some people were convinced that it [Westfield] was coming,” he said.

“And why wouldn’t they be? There’s prominent signage everywhere … it’s unconscionable, in a moral sense, that all this branding was used.”

The area around the proposed town centre site is still plastered with Westfield logos.

Mensch Investments is part of the Mt Atkinson Holdings group, which owns the Mt Atkinson Town Centre.

In a statement on September 11, it said it “remain committed” to the growth of the estate, including funding “roads and utilities” to “enable the activation of the town centre”.

Despite Scentre Group’s decision to pull out, Mensch insisted that it will work with stakeholders, including Melton council, to approve plans for the town centre.

A spokesperson from developers of the estate, Stockland, said the company acknowledged the concerns of the community and would do what it could to help.

“We will continue to collaborate closely with all relevant stakeholders to support the planning and delivery of the future Mt Atkinson Town Centre,” the spokesperson said.

Mr Ruben said he hoped someone could “move and shake” to attract private investment in the area.

Better reception for Mt Atkinson

By Eddie Russell

The days of poor phone reception are coming to a close in Mt Atkinson, with the state government announcing it will significantly bolster network connection.

In total, 36 mobile network improvements will be made in Melton and Brimbank areas over the next two years.

The project, to be completed through the Connecting Victoria program, will be progressively rolled out and is expected to be fully completed by mid 2026 .

In Melton, existing mobile infrastructure will be upgraded to provide 5G services and

new mobile towers in Rockbank South will be built to improve coverage for residents in Rockbank and Mt Atkinson, Grandview, and Olivia estates.

As reported by Star Weekly, residents in estates like Mt Atkinson have been plagued by black spots and suffered from zero to little mobile coverage and WiFiconnection.

Local Jaksha Shah welcomed the move.

“It’s a step in the right direction and we really appreciate the state government effort to do something about it,” she said.

“It will be great to see action so I’m positive.”

However, residents will still have to put up

with a lack of coverage for the next few years.

“It [reception] is still poor.

I went to the community centre a couple of days ago and there’s no network there,” said Ms Shah.

“This should’ve happened earlier.”

An NBN business fibre zone has also been delivered in Rockbank to provide high-speed broadband between Rockbank and Mount Cottrell.

In Brimbank, four new towers are expected to be completed between 2025 and 2026.

On July 31, Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch asked Government Services Minister Gabrielle Williams to provide an update on

‘Don’t leave us behind’: Swimmers

A major leisure centre in the area is falling apart, and local swimmers are saying enough is enough.

A new petition is requesting a major redevelopment of Melton Waves.

Nib De Santis, who is the secretary of community group Friends of Melton Waves, said the state of the facility was becoming dangerous and threatening the safety of patrons.

“Bits of metal are falling from the roof ,” he said.

“It was a disgrace.”

Mr De Santis said he understood his request would take considerable time and that the petition was a case of starting the conversation.

“We know it’s got to be updated at some stage, so I thought we should get the ball rolling and get council to plan for future developments.

“These things can take five plus years – you can’t just waltz into council at budget time and ask for $3 million.”

Located on Coburns Road, Melton Waves provides a significant service to the local

population and is “loved” by the community, according to Mr De Santis.

For it to fall into further disrepair would mean the health and wellbeing of those in Melton would be worse off.

“I don’t want to see a scenario where everyone has to drive to Caroline Springs to get access to a pool. Don’t leave us behind, ” said Mr De Santis.

Leisure facility management company BlueFit runs the pool on behalf of Melton council.

Both were contacted for comment.

mobile broadband and wi-fi infrastructure investments for the area.

More than a month later, the minister replied to confirm the details, saying “digital resilience” was essential.

“Reliable access to emergency services via mobile connectivity is critical,” she said.

Ms Grigorovitch said the importance of staying connected was something the state government recognised, with the recent investment a reflection of that sentiment.

“We are delivering mobile network improvements for the City of Melton... something that is well and truly needed,” she said.

A mental health service in Melton for adults aged 26 and older has extended its operating hours.

The Melton Mental Health and Wellbeing Local is now available between 9am and 8.30pm on weekdays and 10am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.

The free service is currently accessible online and does not require a medicare card or GP referral for an appointment. It provides care and treatment for those experiencing mental illness or psychological distress and acts as a ‘front door’ to the health system.

Melton MP Steve McGhie said increasing the availability of such critical support would greatly benefit residents facing mental health issues.

“The Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Melton means people in our community don’t need to travel far to get help – now they can get that help after hours and on weekends.”

The Melton local was established in October 2023 and is staffed by qualified mental health professionals who offer face-to-face telehealth appointments by phone or video calls.

Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt said the system meant no more “jumping through hoops” when getting mental health help.

“We need to make the mental health system easier to access – that’s exactly what the Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Melton is doing by extending its hours,” she said.

Information: betterhealth.vic.gov.au/ mhwlocal.

New Aintree community garden a ‘hub for sustainability’

Greenthumbs in Aintree are a step closer to making their home a ‘hub for sustainability’. Construction is expected to commence on a new community garden in the Woodlea estate this month following three years of designing, planning, and community consultations. The garden will be built at the Timbertop Community Centre and consist of raised garden beds and fruit trees.

It will also feature a variety of interactive installations, such as composting stations, water conservation exhibits, and native plant displays.

Recently, not-for-profit group We Love Aintree received $75,000 from the state government to not only build and manage the garden but run sustainability programs for residents.

put to good use.

“We will be able to strengthen our programs,buildnewpartnerships,andengage more community members in learning about sustainable living,” he said.

A range of activities like gardening groups, food and plant swaps, growing workshops, and environmental events will be available for locals to take part in.

Partnerships with local schools, kindergartens, disability groups, and senior groups, are on the cards in future.

Developer Woodlea, along with We Love Aintree, contributed more than $30,000 to the garden as part of their commitment to turn the area into a place for ‘innovation and discovery’

Project director Matthew Dean thanked the state government for its contribution to the

wellbeing of people living in Aintree.

“The Aintree Community Garden is a central part of our mission to become Australia’s healthiest community,” he said.

“This impressive grant will help the project reach its full potential as a hub for communityeducationandengagementwithin Woodlea.”

Aims of the garden is to provide hands-on learning experiences for visitors of all ages and create a space for neighbours to connect, share experiences, and collaborate on environmental initiatives.

The original Aintree community garden was built in 2018 but removed as the land it was on was sold.

Information: https://www.weloveaintree.org/ aintree-community-garden.

Friends of Melton Waves members Colin Green, president Colin Bailey, Brendan Shanks, Nib De Santis, Georgia Grace, and Teresia Faux. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 430859_01

Director Jono Ingram said community engagement was a major driver of the project and that the money will be

Clay killing was a ‘horror movie’

By Emily Woods, AAP

Carol Clay’s loved ones were filled with immense anxiety for almost two years as they tried to search for the missing 73-year-old.

She had vanished while camping in the remoteVictorianwildernessandherdaughter, Emma Davies, tried to search for her in the days after her March 2020 disappearance but couldn’t because of Covid-19 restrictions.

“I was unable to go to the location where my motherwaslastseenalive,”MsDaviestoldthe Supreme Court in Melbourne on Thursday, September 12.

“I wanted to put my hands in the dirt, my feet in river, where my mum was lost, to get answers.”

But one man knew where Mrs Clay was.

Former Caroline Springs resident Greg Lynn, who was found guilty of her murder in June, faced the pre-sentence hearing on his 58th birthday.

After shooting her in the head, he put the bodies of Mrs Clay and her lover Russell Hill into a trailer and drove them to a bush track. He returned seven months later to burn their remains into more than 2000 bone fragments.

Lynn did not reveal where they were buried for 20 months.

“What did happen I can only describe as a horror movie, gross and incomprehensible is an understatement,” Ms Davies said.

Mrs Clay’s sister said hearing about how Lynn destroyed her remains was worse than learning of the 73-year-old’s death.

“This was my sister, my dear sister, who was shot, transported in a trailer like a lump of meat, buried for seven months, and burnt,” Jillian Walker told the court on Thursday, September 12.

“This was all done with absolute intention.

“It was not just a bad decision, it was evil, wicked and unconscionable.”

She said hearing Lynn’s story during his murder trial - that Mrs Clay’s death happened after an angry exchange over Mr Hill using a drone-was“horrific”and“incomprehensible”.

“There was no substantial reason for her being dead, it was senseless and pointless, she

was in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

Ms Davies refused to say her mother’s killer’s name in court - only referring to Lynn as “he” or “him”.

“He stole my mother from me. He took her life, he took her dignity and he took her privacy,” she said.

Lynn, who continues to deny he murdered

Mrs Clay, stared at each of his victim’s family and friends as they cried in court while detailing the impact of his crime.

A jury found him guilty of Mrs Clay’s murder, but he was acquitted of killing Russell Hill, 74.

The 58-year-old did, however, admit destroying the couple’s remains and much of the campsite’s evidence.

He is appealing against the jury’s guilty verdictandhislawyershadflaggedtheywould try to delay his sentence, but on Thursday 12 September informed the court this was no longer being pursued.

Prosecutor Daniel Porceddu called for Lynn to be jailed for life for the “cold-blooded and callous” murder of a vulnerable elderly woman.

He said Lynn showed no remorse, as he continued to deny the murder, and claimed he was motivated to kill Mrs Clay as she was the only witness to Mr Hill’s death.

Lynn deserved the maximum prison term because of his attempts to obliterate all evidence, including the bodies, which exacerbated the anguish of Mrs Clay’s loved ones, he said.

But Lynn’s lawyer Dermot Dann KC argued the jury went down a “forbidden pathway” in delivering split verdicts.

He said there was no clear motive for the killings, as the jury found Lynn did not murder Mr Hill so she was not a witness to anything.

Lynn admitted his treatment of their bodies was “selfish and callous in the extreme”, Mr Dann said.

He asked Justice Michael Croucher to take into account the pilot’s previous good work history, charitable background, that he had been assaulted in jail and lengthy delays to the case. Lynn will be sentenced on October 18.

In the coming weeks we’ll be hosting pop–up information stalls, with local locations outlined below. You can ask questions and learn more about the latest project updates, Environment Effects Statement survey findings and draft Planning Scheme Amendment.

WhereWhen

Greg Lynn spent his 58th birthday at a pre-sentence hearing for the murder of camper Carol Clay.

(Joel Carrett/AAP Photos)

Addressing barriers to PCOS care

By Oscar Parry

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition among women, with symptoms beginning shortly after puberty, during later teen years, or within early adulthood.

Theexactcauseoftheconditionisunknown, and symptoms include irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and hirsutism.

Despite affecting up to 13 per cent of women inAustralia,alackofawarenessanddismissive attitudes are just some of the factors that create barrierstoaccessingcare,saidPolycysticOvary Syndrome Association of Australia (POSAA) consumer representative Lorna Berry.

Ms Berry said she experienced significant barriers herself to accessing effective care for PCOS, with her diagnosis taking “years”.

“I often struggled to have doctors take my concerns seriously. Many healthcare providers were unaware of PCOS,” Ms Berry said.

She said many women are told that they will never have children and are advised to “only return when they want to start a family.”

“Women with PCOS are often told to simply go away and lose weight, which can be particularly challenging due to the insulin resistance commonly associated with PCOS. Unfortunately, many women living with PCOS have had similar experiences and are often unaware that they have the condition at all, leading to delays in receiving appropriate care and support,” Ms Berry said.

She said there are a broad range of factors that contribute to these barriers.

These include a lack of awareness, dismissive attitudes, a focus on weight, inconsistent information, limited access to specialists, stigma, and mental health.

“Accesstospecialists,suchasendocrinologists or reproductive health experts, can be limited – especially in rural or underserved areas, further delaying appropriate care,” she said.

“The physical symptoms of PCOS, such as weight gain, acne, and hirsutism, can lead to stigma and impact mental health, making it even harder for women to seek care and advocate for themselves.”

To address these barriers, Ms Berry said

Research to tackle women’s knee injuries

La Trobe University researchers will advance their ground-breaking work into injury prevention in women’s football after securing $3 million in funding.

The HERknee Centre of Research Excellence was awarded the multi-million-dollar grant by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

HERknee CRE brings together researchers from around the world to tackle knee injury and arthritis burden for women.

La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre’s professor Kay Crossley said studies showed that when women and girls played sport, they had up to eight times higher risk of serious knee injury than men and boys.

“One in two women will rapidly develop arthritis following injury,” she said.

“Women and girls also have worse outcomes following a knee injury or with knee arthritis.

she would like to see several changes to the approach of health professionals, public understanding, and attitudes towards women’s health concerns.

“There needs to be greater awareness and education about PCOS among both healthcare professionals and the general public. This includes understanding the complexity of the condition and recognising the varied symptoms women may experience,” Ms Berry said. “Women should be empowered to take charge of their health, with healthcare professionals listening to their concerns and taking them seriously. Women need to feel confident in advocating for themselves and seeking the care they deserve.”

She said a multidisciplinary approach from health professionals is crucial for managing PCOS effectively.

“This would involve a team of specialists, including endocrinologists, dietitians, mental health professionals, and gynaecologists, working together to provide comprehensive care tailored to each woman’s needs.”

Increased funding and research towards treatments, accessible and consistent care, and more holistic and inclusive treatment options are other changes Ms Berry said she would like to see.

As the consumer representative for POSAA, which aims to raise global awareness of PCOS and assist those diagnosed with it, Ms Berry said that the support association has been involved in the development of evidence-based guidelines – including those published by Monash University.

According to Monash University, this guideline“istheculminationoftheengagement of over 3000 health professionals and the work of 10-plus multidisciplinary clinical and lived experience experts from six continents and 71 countries internationally.”

Ms Berry was a lived experience expert on the guideline.

“The information in these guidelines is grounded in the latest evidence, ensuring that all care and recommendations are both scientifically sound and practically relevant,” Ms Berry said. “[The goal of POSAA] is to bridge the gap between lived experiences and medical expertise, ensuring a future where every woman with PCOS receives holistic, compassionate, and effective care.” She said that an evidence-based approach is crucial for accessing effective care and helping women to make informed choices about their health.

“When guidance is rooted in scientific evidence, it provides a reliable foundation for understanding the condition, exploring treatment options, and managing symptoms effectively. This is especially important because misinformation or outdated advice can lead to ineffective treatments, frustration, and even worsening of the condition,” she said.

As it is a lifelong condition, she said that a multi-phase approach is crucial.

“Understanding that PCOS is a lifelong condition also highlights the importance of a comprehensive and dynamic approach to care. Women need resources that address the different phases of PCOS – whether it’s managing irregular cycles in their teens, addressing fertility concerns in their 20s and 30s, or mitigating metabolic risks later in life.”

Ms Berry said that as research advances, evidence-based guidelines help ensure that women with PCOS receive the best possible care, improving their quality of life and long-term health outcomes.

POSAA has a Facebook page where it shares PCOS news, resources, and information.

Details: https://www.facebook.com/ PCOSAustralia

“Our CRE aims to reduce the risk of knee injury in women and girls, the likelihood of developing knee arthritis in women and girls and the pain suffered.

“Another important part of our work is improving the outcomes in women and girls who have suffered a knee injury or who have developed arthritis.”

The project will combine prevention and rehabilitation expertise across clinical trials, injury surveillance and health economics modelling.

La Trobe Deputy Vice Chancellor (research and industry engagement) professor Chris Pakes said the rise of women’s participation in sport was positive but more needed to be done to protect participants.

“Ensuring everyone can play sport and not incurinjuriesthatbecomecareerendingisvital, guaranteeing that this upward participation trend continues,” he said.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association of Australia (POSAA) consumer representative Lorna Berry. (Supplied)

Helping women talk about money

Health promotion organisation Women’s Health in the North is working to address economic equality for women. Cade Lucas reports.

When Manasi Wagh told me her official title, I had to ask for clarification, thinking I may have misheard or made a mistake.

“I’m manager of economic equality at Women’s Health in the North,” she repeated confidently, as though there was nothing unusual about economic equality being a focus of a women’s health organisation.

That’s because as far as Ms Wagh, Women’s Health in the North (WHIN) and other like-minded organisations are concerned, there isn’t.

“They’re interconnected,” she explained of the relationship between economics and health before adding the obvious rejoinder: “money and finances underpin everything in our lives.”

As far as statements go, they don’t get much harder to argue with than that, though just in case I wanted to, Ms Wagh wasn’t done.

“People experiencing financial distress are twice as likely to experience mental distress at the same time,” she told me, before reeling off a stream of statistics showing women were far more likely to experience financial distress than men.

“Currentlythegenderpaygapis21.7percent which means that every dollar a man earns, a woman earns 78 cents,” Ms Wagh said, adding thatthegapinsuperannuationuponretirement balloonsto47percent,withwomenleavingthe workforce to have babies and being more likely to work part-time, the biggest factors.

‘‘ There’s a shame attached to it ‘oh I cannot manage my money. If you put that together with family violence and financial control, it’s a deadly cocktail ’’ - Manasi Wagh

That’sassumingwomenreachretirementage with a job at all.

“In Australia the statistics for women over 50 are pretty grim,” she said.

“Forty per cent of women over that live in poverty or will retire in poverty, with rates of homelessness high as well.”

For all of these factors, migrant women and those from non-English speaking backgrounds are worse off again, with cultural factors often adding another degree of difficulty on top.

“Our work is focussed on reducing these inequities,” said Ms Wagh of WHIN, one of 12 such health promotion agencies set up across Victoria.

While originally established to serve the large migrant communities of Melbourne’s northern suburbs, Ms Wagh explained that as with the word health, the title should be taken too literally.

“Even though the organisation is situated in the north, the economic equality work we do goes across Victoria.”

As migrant herself, who moved to Australia from India in 2006, Ms Wagh knows intimately how important that work is, particularly in regards to money and finance.

“I came here as an educated person, but still struggled to know which bank to go to and what accounts to open because the names were different, the terminologies were different,” she recalled.

“I did not know what my financial rights were, what my responsibilities were, so these things are all taken into account in designing the program.”

That program is Let’s Talk Money, which WHIN have been offering since 2017.

Let’s Talk Money (LTM) provides tailored financial education to multicultural women through a peer education model where migrant women are recruited and trained in financial literacy, to then educate others from similar backgrounds.

“This approach has proved very successful because not only do the educators have the language skills and cultural understanding but the lived experience of migrating to this country,” said Ms Wagh.

One of them is Maria Zygourakis, the daughter of Greek migrants, who while born in Australia, grew up witnessing her parents struggling to understand the financial realities of their adopted home.

“Many, many times they’ve talked about the language barriers, or the cultural barriers they faced, yeah, when they first arrived,” said Ms Zygourakis who has been teaching financial capability classes for more than two years.

She said given the broad nature of the topic and the even broader range of clients, a needs analysis was conducted before each session to identify the issues to be focussed on.

“For example, recently, I had a group that were elderly Greek migrants, so they wanted somebody to come from Centrelink to talk to them about pensions and assets and property,” she said.

“And then there’s other groups that have recently arrived, and might want to know the simple information such as, how do you open a bank account in Australia and what identification is needed? What are the different types of cards?”

Translatingdocuments,explainingeconomic jargon and ensuring bills or fines are paid on time are other simple tasks participants are helped with, but which can cause serious problems if not understood.

Ms Wagh said cultural issues around women and money and the social stigma associated with financial difficulties are also addressed.

“There’s a shame attached to it ‘oh I cannot manage my money,” she said.

“If you put that together with family violence and financial control, it’s a deadly cocktail.”

As in all other sections of society, family and domestic violence is a huge problem in multicultural communities.

But according to national prevention of violence against women not-for-profit, Our Watch,thefinancialdependencemanymigrant

women have on violent partners, makes them especially vulnerable.

“Asylum seeker women living in the community on temporary visas, as well as migrant women on student and working visas, are not entitled to social security payments. Migrant women also experience other kinds of financial insecurity, including discrimination and racism in the labour market.”

Socialisolationduetoalackoffamilysupport, language barriers and even being more likely to liveinoutersuburbsorregionally,whereaccess to transport is difficult, are other barriers to migrant women escaping violent relationships.

ForMsWagh,it’sthisissuewheretheoverlap between women’s financial and physical health is most important.

“I worked in the health sector and have worked in the family violence sector and the prevention of gender based violence and economic equality kind of sits alongside it.All this work WHIM, LTM) is to prevent gender based financial abuse. It’s my passion in life,” she said.

Left: Migrant women learning financial literacy skills at Let’s Talk Money classes run by Women’s Health in the North. Right: Let’s Talk Money educator Maria Zygourakis (top), and a Let’s Talk Money class in session. (Pictures: Supplied)

Women’s Health in the North economic equality manager Manasi Wagh.

Gardeners grow together

The old adage is ‘keep your friends close and your enemies closer’.

However, flora enthusiasts in Melton and Geelong have chosen to ignore this and opt to keep their friends closer.

On Thursday, September 12, Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden were joined by the Friends of the Geelong Botanic Gardens.

The Melton volunteer gardening group hosted their Geelong counterparts for a five hour tour of the Melton Botanic Garden.

Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden president John Bentley said the crossover was useful in lots of ways.

“It’s good to have collaboration with other friends groups – we learn things from them, which is beneficial.

“They have donated plants to us … and we have purchased from their nursery.”

What goes in my bins?

Briefs

Harkness fatal collision

Melton Highway Patrol officers are investigating after a fatal collision in Harkness on Sunday, September 15. It is believed a car and truck collided on the Old Western Freeway about 7.45pm. The driver, who was the sole occupant of the car, died at the scene and is yet to be formally identified, The driver of the truck, who wasn’t injured, stopped at the scene and has spoken with police.

Hit and run in Fraser Rise

A woman has required surgery for serious injuries from a hit and run in Fraser Rise on Tuesday, September 10. Police said a small blue hatchback struck a pedestrian while she was walking her dog about 6.20pm on Taylor’s Road. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

The day started with morning tea near the lake before attendees were taken to observe and learn about the southern section of the garden.

This was followed by lunch, provided by the Meltonfriends,andthenconcludedwithalook around the north section of the gardens.

MrBentleysaidtheGeelongcrewhadpicked a good time to visit.

“September is a good time to visit because you see the peak of most of the flowering,” he said.

This is not an uncommon thing for the Friends of the Geelong Botanic Gardens to do, butitwasthefirstcrossoverofitskindbetween Melton and Geelong.

“They run tours every couple of months… and last year they asked to visit us as part of their yearly activities,” Mr Bentley explained.

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Not in any bin

Materials that are hazardous, dangerous or bulky are not accepted in any household bin.

Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden president John Bentley hosts the guided tour. (Damjan Janevski)

AFL honour for Gordon volunteer

Sometimes, it is the goals kicked off the field that define the success of a local sports club.

Volunteers like Kellee Frazer, from Gordon Football Netball Club, work tirelessly to keep their beloved teams afloat, giving up their time and energy to make sure others can succeed without acknowledgement.

Now, Ms Frazer has received national recognition by being awarded 2024 Volunteer of the Year by the AFL – something she did not anticipate.

“I was very overwhelmed, surprised, and honouredtoacceptanawardlikethis,”saidMs Frazer.

Afterjoiningwhenshewas18,MsFrazerhas had an extensive involvement with the club for over three decades.

She was granted a life membership in 2022 forarangeofdifferentroles,fromjuniornetball coachandumpiredelegatetoan11yearstintas

secretary and ultimately president in 2024.

However, it hasn’t always been easy going –in 2010, the club came close to collapsing but held on thanks to the persistence of locals like Ms Frazer.

“We worked hard to… develop how to move forward and hit goals to become a successful club,” said Ms Frazer.

“We’ve done everything… to improve and become a place that people want to come to.”

MsFrazersaidsportinregionalcommunities like Gordon was more than just a game.

“You get kids that develop friendships through team sports with kids from other schools and that’s great for the town.

“It’s great for people to come together and catch up and it is really important for the

‘Much needed respite’ for families

Patients and their families at Sunshine Hospital now have a safe haven to go to when the ward gets too unsettling or confronting.

On Wednesday, September 11, a family room was opened by Ronald McDonald House Charities in partnership with Western Health, which runs the site.

The space is found in the paediatric ward on level six of the Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital in St Albans.

It is hoped that the establishment of the family room will offer children, parents, and carers‘much-neededrespite’fromthehospital environment.

Western Health chief operating officer John Ferraro said it was an “important milestone” in the healthcare provider’s history.

“It’s state-of-the-art, it’s first class, and it’s what makes the difference for patients and their families,” he said.

“This is what Western Health stands for –that we can … provide a little bit of relief for children.”

The benefits of the family room are wide-ranging for everyone, said Mr Ferraro.

“Having this outlet where you can go and take your child away and distract them from medical equipment and what’s happening. .. is

significant in terms of their wellbeing.”

A kitchen, lounge and dining area, workspaces and a welcoming outdoor area are offered to those visiting, who might be staying long term while their child is sick.

There are also snacks and refreshments, computers, and internet access available.

According to Mr Ferraro, more than 4000 paediatric patients visit the Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital every year.

This is the third Ronald McDonald House Charities family room in Victoria – the others are in the Monash Children’s Hospital and Wodonga Hospital.

development of kids and teens.”

The close bond forged with others is one of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering, said Ms Frazer.

“You make lots of friends at lots of other clubs and you know how hard others work to pull it together every week for the community,” she said.

Itisseeingthededicationofothersthatmakes winning Volunteer of the Year particularly meaningful.

“Knowing that makes it special that they picked me,” said Ms Frazer.

On Thursday September 5, former AFL superstarJobeWatsonmadetheannouncement in front of a gathering of Ms Frazer’s family, friends, and club members.

Arrest after carjacking

Police have arrested a 31-year-old Bacchus Marsh man after he evaded authorities in an allegedly stolen vehicle on September 10.

Police attempted to intercept a stolen truck on Gisborne-Melton Road in Toolern Vale when the driver failed to pull over at about 8am.

The truck was dumped on Melton Road in Gisborne South a short time later, before the driver allegedly carjacked a woman in a white ute.

The woman received minor injuries during the incident.

Police followed the stolen ute through Gisborne, Woodend and Lancefield. Stop sticks were used on Lancefield-Tooborac Road.

The driver of the stolen ute continued and entered a petrol station on Main Road,whereitwasinvolvedinacollision with another car and a police vehicle. A police officer was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The male driver ran from the scene and was arrested nearby at about 10.35am.

The man was taken into custody and will be interviewed by detectives. It is alleged he was also involved in a carjacking on Oak Street in Seymour on the weekend, where a 77-year-old man received non-life-threatening injuries.

State government funding fuels legal help in Melton and Brimbank

Fundinginthisyear’sstatebudgethaspowered the Brimbank and Melton Community Legal Centre (BMCLC) to continue its services for another four years.

The centre provides specialist legal services, targeted intervention and support for young people. BMCLC received funding in the 2024-25 budget to continue the Melton Family Violence Program for an additional four years.

One of the main assets at the BMCLC is commUnity+, a multi-disciplinary community agency that prwovides services

acrossVictoriawhilelookingforopportunities to deliver programs and support to people experiencing disadvantage or hardship in communities rich in cultural diversity.

Earlier this month, staff welcomed St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman to see exactly what they do. During her visit, Ms Suleyman spoke to lawyers delivering front-line services for the BMCLC in St Albans, learned more about the family violence program and met with the commUnity+ team.

Ms Suleyman said backing organisations such as commUnity+ in this year’s budget

was important, and highlighted the incredible job they do to ensure everyone can access the justice system.

“CommUnity+ delivers transformative services in St Albans, supporting our local community when they need it most,” she said.

CommUnity+ chief executive Tracey Gaudry said the services they provide encompass the strong values of people in Melbourne’s west.

“BMCLC, a program of commUnity+, is core to our commitment to deliver programs, services and support to people experiencing

disadvantage or hardship in communities rich in cultural diversity,” she said.

CommUnity+ general manager of family community services Cameron Bloye said they aim to support marginalised communities.

“The mission of commUnity+ is to support andempowercommunitiesinthewestwhoare experiencing disadvantage, marginalisation and are vulnerable,” he said. “Through our legal program we aim to resolve legal issues throughthedeliveryofclient-centred,holistic, collaborative, high-quality and specialised legal advice and assistance.”

Patient Gia Huy,10, with brother Liam, nine months, and mum Thi Huong Nguyen in the new Ronald McDonald Family Room. (Robin Bristow)

AFL 2024 Volunteer of the Year Kellee Frazer with Jobe Watson. (Supplied)

Lifestyle Communities, the smartest move you’ll make

In today’s economy, making smart financial choices is crucial. At Lifestyle Communities, weofferauniqueopportunitytodownsizeyour expenses while upgrading your lifestyle. Our Woodlea and Deanside communities provide significant financial benefits and a vibrant way of life for those 50 and above, whether still working, retiring, or ready for a change. Downsizing to a Lifestyle Communities

home typically costs 75-80 per cent of the local median price, allowing you to free up equity in your current home for greater financial freedom. Enjoy life on your terms—whether that means travelling, starting a new hobby, or simply savouring more leisure time.

Asahomeowner,you’llalsoenjoyfreeseaside holidays at Club Lifestyle on the Bellarine Peninsula. Whether you prefer a cosy villa,

Lifestyle Deanside

Open Day

Big SPRING sale on selected ‘ready-tomove’ homes.

parking your caravan at our premium powered sites,ortakingaroadtripinourfullyequipped motorhomes, it’s our way of saying thank you.

Lifestyle Communities at Woodlea and Deanside offer more than just a home—they provide a vibrant, engaging community where you can thrive. With luxurious homes at affordable prices, outstanding amenities, and a strong sense of community, it’s no wonder so

Over 50? Bring

many of our homeowners recommend us to their friends and family.

Discover the smartest move you’ll ever make at Lifestyle Woodlea or Lifestyle Deanside. There’s no better time than now.

Book a tour today by calling 1300 50 55 60 and start living the life you’ve always dreamed of.

your

grandkids

for a day of fun with fairy floss, movies, popcorn, face painting, and balloons.

While the kids are entertained, indulge in a cup of coffee and donuts as you t our our incredible homes and amenities.

Take advantage of our big SPRING sale on selected ‘ready-to-move’ homes.

Get a real feel of what life could be like in the vibrant community, and have any of your questions answered by our friendly sales team.

When Saturday 21st September 10am – 1pm

Where Lifestyle Deanside Clubhouse 85 Mushu St, Deanside

RSVP to 1300 50 55 60 or walk-in on the day!

Lib MP weighs in on Ferris Road

Western Victoria Liberal MP Bev McArthur has echoed Melton council’s calls for Ferris Road to be declared and duplicated.

Speaking in state Parliament this month, Ms McArthur slammed the state government for a lack of vision and action.

She claimed the current plan for the single lane road is “short-sighted and hopelessly outdated,” and incompatible with the current population growth.

“Cobblebank is growing rapidly, with annual percentage increases into double digits. The population will triple in just 10

years,” Ms McArthur said.

“Withthenewtowncentreincludingatrain station,astadium,ashoppingcentre…aswell as a long-promised new hospital, journeys will increase enormously.”

Ms McArthur said failure to act now would create a range of negative repercussions.

“Failure to futureproof the development will increase congestion, reduce safety, cut productivity and slow economic growth.”

She has called on Roads Minister asked Melissa Horne to re-evaluate plans for Ferris Road.

“Reconsider the single-lane bridge, declare the road an arterial route, and commit to providing the infrastructure Melton actually needs.”

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said “Ferris Road, south of the Western Freeway Interchange, provides an important north-south connection to the growing community of Cobblebank and we willcontinuetomonitortrafficconditionsand growth in the area to ensure that our network is equipped to meet the changing demands of the community”.

Johan’s ‘optimistic view’ rewarded

The future of Melton is in good hands with young leaders like Jonah Hermance.

A year 11 student at St Francis Catholic College, Jonah was recently awarded the Youth Champion of the West by the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation.

However, this came as a surprise to the local teen, who accepted the award on July 26 at Grazeland.

“It was quite unexpected, to be honest. I found out from mum, who told me I was on a shortlist,” said Jonah .

To win, Jonah had to ‘demonstrate

incredible potential or achievement’ and ‘contribute to the betterment’ of those living in the community.

He earned the recognition by creating safe spaces and facilitating conversations on mental health amongst male adolescents, particularly in activities like sport.

Particular assessment criteria for the award included impactful and innovative leadership, collaboration and community engagement, and measurable outcomes – something that Jonah has delivered in spades.

He said mental health was something that

was “very important” to him and that he wanted to help others get through difficult times.

“I like to have an optimistic view on life –sometimes you hit a certain point [in life] that feels incredibly low but when you get out of that, it’s difficult to get that low again.”

Recently announced as one of the school captains for next year, Jonah has no plans of slowingdownwhenitcomestohelpingothers.

“I’m looking at doing a psychology course at uni … and I’d like to have a program on it next year and beyond [at school],” he said.

The spokesperson also said the government was confident the planned Ferris Road level crossing removal project will allow for additional upgrades, improving safety and reducing congestion.

In a council meeting on June 24, a notice of motion was passed for council to write to the state government to seek the reclassification, declaration and duplication of the road as a matter of urgency. Council noted the construction of the new Melton Hospital, would likely cause a significant increase in traffic.

Young people in Melton and Moorabool can have their say on important issues by joining next year’s YMCA Victoria Youth Parliament.

Applicationsforthe2025programare now open, with 120 spots available for Victorians aged between 16 and 25.

The state government is investing morethan$165,000tosupporttheyouth parliament, which gives participants the opportunity to draft, debate, and vote on bills in a three-day intensive sitting held in chambers of the Victorian Parliament.

YouthMinisterNatalieSuleymansaid young people could “use their voices to influence change” by being involved.

“OursupportfortheYouthParliament is one of the ways we’re backing young people in Victoria to lead, grow, and reach their full potential,” she said.

Bills that pass in the youth parliament are presented to the government for consideration – they have already helped shape more than 30 Victorian laws, including a new recycling scheme, mandatory wearing of bike helmets, and banning the sale of soft drinks in government schools.

The program also includes the YMCA Victoria Youth Press Gallery, which provides young people interested in journalism with an opportunity to develop skills in journalism, photography, videography and social media.

Applications are open until October 13 and the program will take place in July next year.

Apply: vicyouth.ymca.org.au/learningand-leadership.

Jonah Hermance. (Damjan Janevski) 431192_02

Creative talent shines at school

On Friday September 6, an array of artworks were on display in an inaugural Thornhill Park Primary school art exhibition.

The pieces, made by students, covered a range of topics and techniques inspired by famous artists, including Andy Warhol, Vincent Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, Henri Matisse, Jeannie Baker and Claude Monet. One of the standouts was the display of Egyptian masks, inspired by the recent Pharaoh Exhibition at the NGV.

The show was organised by visual arts teachers Sally Shoebridge and Victor Pody.

Ms Shoebridge said a mixture of excitement and pride was in the air when families arrived at the exhibition.

“It is truly an amazing level of work we have seen and the whole school has been buzzing with excitement,” she said.

“It was a fun and entertaining night for all.”

The school is looking to do the exhibition biannuallyfollowingthesuccessfulfirstevent.

The work of Mexican painter Frida Kahlo was a major source of inspiration. (supplied) 431870_04

Students also paid homage to Claude Monet’s classic water lillies. (supplied) 431870_03

The extensive display took place in the school hall for students, staff, and families to browse. (supplied) 431870_06

Thornhill Park Primary School’s inaugural art show was a huge hit, with plans for more in future. (supplied) 431870_05

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

Bacchus Marsh Baptist Church

The group would love to invite the local community to its Blind Auction Night at 31-35 Holts Lane in Darley on Saturday September 21. The event starts at 7pm.

 https://facebook.com/events/s/kingdomculture-auction/1048425330196036/

Melton Over 50s Social Group

Join a friendly group of people aged over 50 who enjoy each other’s company while attending events such as dinners, shows, dancing, cinemas and more. If you live in the Melton area and would like to meet new friends, in a welcoming group environment, this is for you.

 Marlene, 0498 329 290

Melton Bowling Club

Even though the AFL season is ending, the lawn bowls season is already underway with practice games and tournaments. The club has a $3600 prize money bowls triples all day tournament on Friday September 26. The Pennant competition starts the first Saturday of October.

 Lyn Edwardes, 0412 406 462

Rose carers of Maddingley Park

The group meets every Wednesday from 10am to noon at the Commemorative Rose Garden, Maddingley Park on the corner of Taverner Street and Grant Streets, Bacchus Marsh. They maintain the two rose gardens at the park. Volunteers are welcome and no experience is necessary to join.

 Elaine, 0400 052 857 or Judy, 0428 463 538

Flower & Garden Show

Entries will soon open for the annual Bacchus Marsh Flower & Garden Show at the Town Hall. Flower and Produce, Cake Decorating & 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

Melton South Community Centre

In partnership with the ATO, the Melton South Community Centre is offering free Tax Help from now until October 28. 45-minute appointments are available to individuals wanting to complete their 2023-24 tax return; eligibility criteria apply. Appointments on Monday afternoons only; Hindi-language assistance available.

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

 9747 8576

Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club

Meets on the first Thursday of every month from 10am 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

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,

This week’s photographer’s choice pictured is of Western Health registered midwife/ nurse Amber Borg, holding two newborns, Bailey and Avleen. (Damjan Janevski) 430304_01

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

Take weight off naturally

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

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

Parkinson’s support group

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

 Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Bridge Club

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

 Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Melton Friendship Group

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

 0406 493 734

‘Caveman’ comedy offers laughs

As the Brimbank Comedy Festival gets underway this weekend, one comedian who has been all across the country and world performing is set to give local’s stitches this Saturday night.

Tim ‘Caveman’ Barrot, who some have said is the oldest upcoming comedian in Australia will light up the Footscray Hotel with laughter at 6.30pm on Saturday, September 21.

Wedged into a weekend of finals football, he plays at the perfect time for football fans looking for a break from the stressful scenes of their teams battling it out on the big screens at the pub.

Join him on a wild journey that spans

continents and defies expectations.

From near-death experiences in Antarctica togettinggoatsstonedinTurkey,he’sseenitall and lived to tell the tale.

As a tour guide in countries he never knew existed, Barrot invites you to experience the excitement of each moment, while secretly being grateful you weren’t actually there.

His comedy is a unique blend of adventure, honesty, and relatability, drawing audiences in with his engaging storytelling style.

Giventhenatureoftheworldatthemoment, withcost-of-livingstrugglesrifeinMelbourne’s west, Barrot has waived the costs for his show, and encourages everyone to “just show up and

have a good time.”

Hehaspreviouslybeenapartofopenmicsin thearea,butSaturdaywillbeasolodebutinthe west for Barrot.

“Iamsuperexcited,asaworkingclassmiddle aged man, I fit in perfectly with the west,” he said. “It is a melting pot of multiculturalism down there, so my experiences of travelling hold me in good stead to be able to connect with the whole audience.”

Gerald Lynch

Pencil in the Craigieburn art expo

Visitors to the Craigieburn Art Group’s annual art expo in October will enjoy works in a variety of mediums from embroidery, woodwork and printmaking to traditional painting, drawing and pastels.

A highlight of the Hume artistic calendar, the show traditionally took place as part of the Craigieburn Festival in March.

However, in recent years the group has staged its expo, Art & Beyond, later in the year at the Global Learning Centre above the Craigieburn Library.

This year the show falls on the weekend of October 11 to 13.

President of the Craigieburn Art Group Vicki Catchpole will be among those displaying work.

Vickidescribedherartas“representational” and “realistic”.

“I’ve previously done a lot of acrylic painting, but this year I decided to focus on printmaking,“ she said.

The show, which is free to view, will feature artworks by 20 individual artists and creatives from the Hume area.

“There will be a variety of exhibitors from established artists to beginners,“ said Vicki. Visitors will have the chance to win a piece of art by purchasing a ticket in the raffle, proceeds of which will be donated to local Scouts.

Outgoing Hume mayor Naim Kurt has agreed to open the show in an unofficial capacity.

Art group members will stage demonstrations at 11am and 1pm on Saturday and 1pm Sunday.

Vicki encouraged anyone interested in art to join the group on Mondays at Selwyn House. Pariticipants meet at 3pm and 7pm.

“We have people of all artistic abilities, ages, physical ability and from different cultures. Everyone is welcome,” she said.

Young entrepreneurs host twilight market

As the sun sets behind Werribee Gorge on the evening of Thursday September 19, young entrepreneurs will take over Bacchus Marsh. From 5–7pm at the Village Green on 197 Main Street, the Youth Twilight Market will be open to people of all ages to enjoy activities, food and stalls run by locals aged 12 to 25. The event was designed by year 12 students from Indie School Bacchus Marsh in conjunction with Moorabool council.

A wide range of products will be on offer including pet bandanas, gemstone jewellery, artwork, pencil cases, and more.

If you fancy items made from clay, crochet, 3D printing, or upcycled materials, there will be something for you.

Grace Green teaches the students who came up with the event.

She said that the cohort wanted to focus on “celebrating youth empowerment” —

something they determined was best achieved by working with young business people.

“They have been to involved in all of the planning and execution of the event. We are very excited to see it all come together,” she said.

A deadly circus performance

Community members can immerse themselves in the extraordinary talents of First Nations artists at Footscray Community Arts during the Deadly Fringe program, part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival.

This year’s program, which will run from October 1 to 20, promises a diverse and thought-provoking array of performances that reinforce First Nations voices and perspectives on stage.

For this year’s festival, Na Djinang Circus will collaborate with Circa Cairns to present In Place.

In Place is the culmination of a year-long journey where local participants tended to a native plant, fostering a deep connection with the land, their work and themselves.

This journey will be interwoven into the performance, merging artistic expression with nature to examine society’s impact on the environment and its profound resonance within us all.

Audiences can expect a stunning displayofacrobaticskillandsophisticated storytelling.

NaDjinangCircus-aMelbourne-based contemporary circus company and a First Nations-led company - explores fundamental human characteristics from an Indigenous perspective. Its art and ethos reflect traditional and contemporary values.

Circa Cairns, supported by the Queensland Government and the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation, is dedicated to creating bold art from the nexus of place and culture.

Details at: https://melbournefringe. com.au/event/in-place/.

Anne Parisianne

“They got heaps of businesses that are run by youthtogetherandcreatedstallsforthingslike face painting, games, popcorn and fairy floss.”

Entry is a gold coin donation, with all proceeds going to the Starlight Children’s Foundation.

Ms Green said the charity was specifically selected by students, who feel a close affinity with Starlight’s work.

“They did a lot of research into who they wanted to donate funds to and Starlight was chosen because… they are able to do a lot for the people that they work with,” she said.

“The students are excited to contribute and help the foundation.”

Ms Green said she was most excited for the “lucky” person who will win a hamper featuring a globe skateboard, macpac jacket, and handmade terrariums.

Eddie Russell

President of the Craigieburn Art Group Vicki Catchpole with a piece of her work. (Damjan Janevski)

Vicki Catchpole

Up: Margot Mansfield, down: Maya Davies, Dhananjaya Johnson and Cassia Jamieson. (Supplied)

Tim ‘Caveman’ Barrot will perform at the Footscray Hotel on Saturday. (Supplied)

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which Carlton player returned to play finals just 180 days after he suffered a third ACL injury?

2. Which is larger: a squash racquet or a pickleball racquet?

3. Which English cricketer will join Melbourne Stars this summer, having been chosen as the No.1 pick in the BBL Draft?

5. To achieve the highestpossible score in darts, all three of your darts must land in which segment?

6. The Packers, the Zephyrs and the Bullets are all previous nicknames of which NBA team?

7. Which three AFL clubs are captained by players who wear the number 9?

8. Brisbane Stadium is also known by what witchy nickname?

What unusual punishment for arriving late to training was allegedly the catalyst for former Canterbury Bulldog Jackson Topine leaving NRL in 2023?

Taylor Gosens was Australia’s only 2024 Paralympic athlete to compete in which sport?

Which Australian batsman scored 80 from 25 balls in the first match of the Twenty20 international series against Scotland?

Lauren Parker became Australia’s first dual-sport Paralympic medallist in how many years, after winning triathlon and cycling medals?

13. Which rising British tennis star defeated Australian Alex de Minaur in the US Open men’s quarterfinals?

14. Italian racing driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli will debut in 2025 with which front-running Formula One team?

15. In which year was the AFL’s Brownlow Medal first awarded?

16. The son of which wellknown sports presenter made his debut recently in American college football?

17. Which country was recently bowled out for a total of 10 in a Twenty20 international against Singapore?

18. Australians Kaden Groves and Ben O’Connor won stages of which major annual cycling event?

19. Prolific goalscorer Erling Haaland, who plays for Manchester City, represents which national soccer team?

20. The so-called ‘Spoon Bowl’ was played by which two bottom NRL teams in round 27?

21. How many gold medals did Australia win at the 2024 Paralympic Games?

22. Which Sydney AFLW co-captain recently suffered a season-ending ACL rupture?

23. Which tennis player won the 2024 US Open Men’s singles title?

24. Australia recently swept which team 3-0 in a Twenty20 International series?

25. Which team finished top of the 2024 NRL ladder at the conclusion of the season?

26. ENGIE Stadium is the home ground of which AFL team?

27. Which Major League Baseball team is on course to finish season 2024 with one of the worst records in the league’s history?

28. The 2024 biographical sports movie Young Woman and the Sea tells the story of the first woman to swim what body of water?

29. Kate Roffey recently stepped down as the president of which AFL club?

30. The NBL Blitz pre-season tournament was held in which location in 2024?

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

ACROSS

1 Annoyers (5)

4 Settler (9)

9 Formula (7)

10 People who speak (7)

11 One who evens the score (7)

12 Greek conception of afterlife (7)

13 Arrived at a judgement (9)

15 Relating to audio equipment (2-2)

17 Declare to be true (4)

19 Not here (9)

22 Type of paint (7)

25 Wed (7)

26 Paraguayan monetary unit (7)

27 Whenever you like (7)

28 Conglomeration of fabric scraps (9)

29 Hankerings (5)

DOWN

1 Very small amount (8)

2 Irish speakeasy (7)

3 One who makes less progress than others (9)

4 One half of Oxbridge (9)

5 Supple (5)

6 ‘Not on your –!’ (5)

7 Local law enforcer (7)

8 Recommence (6)

14 Go ashore (9)

15 Common greeting question (3,3,3)

16 Indecency (8)

18 Green (7)

20 Preparing writing for publication (7)

21 End a phone call (4,2)

23 Indisposed (5)

24 Egyptian capital (5)

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

1 What is the capital of Guyana?

2 Paul Mescal (pictured) co-starred with Olivia Colman and Dakota Johnson in which 2021 film?

3 Which of the big cat species is typically the largest?

4 What protein is the main substance that makes up fingernails?

5 The Costume Institute Benefit is the formal name for which annual fashion event?

6 Name the 2018 novel by Trent Dalton that was adapted into a 2024 Netflix limited

7 Canon, Nikon and Olympus are well-known brands of what?

8 Which actor do the films MorningGlory, DoctorStrange and The Time Traveler’s Wife have in common?

9 Who painted the famous fresco The Creation of Adam?

10 Which Central American country is often referred to as ‘the

Power surge for Kia’s Sportage

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

With hybrid buyers lighting up the EV market, great things are expected of the recent addition to the Sportage SUV range.

Driven by the surge in hybrid sales, the Toyota RAV4 has overtaken the Ranger and HiLux to become the best-selling vehicle in Australia.

So, it’s not before time that Kia has introduced a hybrid variant to its popular Sportage medium SUV range, which the company confidently anticipates, at 300 units per month, will contribute 20 per cent to total Sportage sales.

“The Sportage range was already an excellent medium SUV package in a very popular and competitive segment and the addition of the Hybrid variant strengthens our offering considerably,” says Damien Meredith, Kia Australia chief executive officer.

The Sportage HEV is available in two trims – SX FWD and top-of-the-range GT-Line –with power coming from the same 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol/electric hybrid system as the larger Sorento Hybrid.

This is mated with an electric motor and lithium-ion polymer battery delivering a combined petrol/electric output of 169kW and 350Nm.Pairedwiththepowerplantisadial-up, shift-by-wire six-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels.

Based on the fifth generation Sportage, both hybrids feature 18-inch machined alloy wheels with temporary spare, while the GT-Line Hybrid (the test vehicle) adds a heated steering wheel.

The SX HEV FWD goes on the market for $45,950, while the flagship Kia Sportage GTLine HEV FWD sells for $55,420, both plus on-roadcosts.EachiscoveredbyKia’sgenerous seven years/unlimited kilometre warranty, the battery seven years/150,000 kilometres.

Styling

The body is defined by Kia’s Opposites United design language characterised by sharp lines amplified by bold surfaces with unique graphics. Up front the Kia signature Tiger Nose black grille links with distinctive curved

LED daytime running lights and headlamps.

In a nod to marketing, the polished metal Kia badge is hard to ignore.

From the side the Sportage HEV stands its groundinthemid-sizeSUVsegmentwithbold blackplasticwheelarchcladdingandcleanlines linkingthefuturisticfrontwithasleekfastback and taillights cut into the body. A broad back supports an impressive width.

Interior

The heart of the top-shelf GT-Line is a curved touchscreen flanked by air vents giving the impression of width to the cabin. The 12.3-inch screenactsasacentreofconnectivityfordriver and front passenger, while the similar-size instrument cluster incorporates the latest display with clear and precise graphics.

A Blind-Spot View Monitor ‘sees’ what is potentially in the driver’s blind spot.

Unlike the ICE models, the HEV centre console features a dial-style gearshift knob as well as electronic parking brake with Auto hold. Storage includes cup holders and a large open space under the padded armrest.

Leather appointed seats include eight-way power driver’s seat, with two-way lumbar support. Front seats also are heated and ventilated.Boot,accessedbyasmarthands-free power tailgate, is a usable 586 litres with the seat backs up, expanding to a generous 1872 litres with them folded. A rare EV bonus is a

kit.

Infotainment

Smartphone wireless capability sadly is absent but there is a wireless phone charger as well as USB-A and USB-C ports. As is the case with other top-line Sportages, the GT-Line HEV is fitted with a premium eight-speaker Harman/ Kardon sound system as well as DAB+ digital radio and Bluetooth connectivity.

Engines/transmissions

Power in the Sportage Hybrid comes from the same 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol-electric hybrid system as the larger Sorento Hybrid, which mates a 132kW/265Nm four-cylinder petrol engine with a 44kW/264Nm electric motor and a 1.49kWh lithium-ion polymer battery (combined petrol + electric output is 169kW and 350Nm). A six-speed automatic transmission puts power to ground via the front wheels, ensuring a smooth transition between gear changes.

Safety

The Sportage GT-Line HEV carries a top five-star ANCAP rating on 2022 testing. Included are autonomous emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection, rear cross traffic alert, active cruise control, lane keeping assist with steering intervention, blind

spot monitoring, 360-degree surround view cameras, front and rear parking sensors, trailer sway control and hill descent control. Front, front-sideandcurtainairbags,plusfrontcentre airbag complete the picture.

Driving

Refined is the only way to describe the GT-Line HEV manners. The engine and electric motor work together in conjunction with the conventional six-speed automatic transmission for a reasonably enjoyable driving experience. However, the lack of all-wheel drive does cause some chaos via the front under heavy acceleration.

Transitionbetweenengineandelectricmotor was done with quiet efficiency and is matched by a mostly unperturbed ride. Braking is good too and the regenerative system is consistent and pulls up the car well.

Fuel consumption is claimed by the maker to be 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the ADR 81/02 combined urban/highway cycle. The test vehicle came up with, I feel, an honest 6.5 litres per 100 kilometres.

Summary

It remains to be seen whether the Sportage Hybrid can hang on to the coat-tails of the runaway Toyota RAV4 petrol-electric and make it all the way to the top. Only time will tell.

space saver spare wheel rather than a puncture

As the footy season starts to wrap up, there’s plenty of elation and heartbreaking stories. StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic was there capturing the action on Saturday.

The glory and the heartbreak

Sam Conway. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 431496_17

The Werribee crowd. (431496_26)

Footscray’s Charlie Clarke. (431495_12)

Footscray’s Jedd Busslinger. (431495_04)

The Riddell supporters. (431490_10)

Josh Grabham and Arron Bray. (431490_47)

Hoppers Crossing’s Chase Guy. (431493_20)

Sunshine celebrates its premiership. (431491_59)

Celebrations for Sunshine. (431491_35)

Caroline Springs’ Alipate Bryant. (431493_02)

The Coppinger sisters celebrate. (431489_50)

Riddell’s Finonnuala McKeagney-Stubbs. (431489_03)

Melton South a step closer to joining the RDFNL

There’s a sense of relief for Melton South after Riddell District Football Netball League clubs voted in favour of the club joining the competition.

As previously reported, Panthers members unanimously voted in favour of leaving the Ballarat Football Netball League to join the RDFNL.

The club has had a tough time on the footy field for a number of years, with its senior side not winning a game the past two seasons.

The RDFNL board felt that the Melton South is a natural fit from a geographical and competitive standpoint as well as satisfying the netball component.

It meant the next step was RDFNL clubs, both junior and senior, voting on whether they wanted the Panthers to join the league.

There was a special general meeting on Wednesday night with clubs then voting on the Panthers future the next couple of days.

More than 50 per cent of clubs had to accept the Panthers for them to be accepted.

“The RDFNL is pleased to announce that all votes are in and there was a majority 79 per

cent vote for the acceptance of Melton South Football Netball Club joining the RDFNL for the 2025 season,” the league said in a statement.

The league said 60 per cent of senior clubs, which will now face the Panthers, voted in favour.

The Panthers junior sides already play in the league with the senior club having been part of the competition before it joined the BFNL in 1997.

Panthers president Matthew Collins said it was nice to have a bit of more certainty about the situation.

“There’s still a bit of water to go under the bridge, but all indications are it should be OK,” he said.

“We’re very happy but it’s been a couple of nervous days.”

Collins said there had been a few more clubs vote against it than they would have thought but they were relieved it had all

Rising trio make history

By Tara Murray

Three locals were part of the first Victorian First Nations team that is competing at Netball Australia’s inaugural First Nations Tournament.

The tournament was held at the State Netball Centre in Parkville from September 13-15, featuring Australia’s best under-23 First Nations athletes.

Speaking before the event, Sunbury Lions Jemiah Niki said it’s super cool to be part of a team like this. Niki was also a development player with the Western Warriors.

Niki is from Jawoyn, Murry Island and Saibai Island heritage.

“You always dream of this stuff as a young netballer and to be living out a dream is just awesome,” she said. “To hear about the competition and space for other women and girls like me made my heart so warm.

”We don’t have many spaces for us in sport so hopefully this opens up doors for other sports to follow along. And then to hear I was selected in the team made it 100 times better.”

Melton Centrals and City West Falcons Elisa

Butterworth-Gonebale said being part of the team is an incredible honour.

Butterworth-Gonebale is a Wagiman-Ngan Giwumirri woman.

“Itprovidesaplatformforustocelebrateour culture, showcase our talent and represent our community with pride,” she said. “I’m really excited it’s going to be hosted in Melbourne where our families and communities can come along and be a part of this special event.”

Butterworth-Gonebale said there was a mix of excitement and gratitude for those who’ve been championing this opportunity for a long time.

“When I found out I was going to be a team member I felt a deep sense of pride,”she said. “The chance to represent the Victorian Aboriginal community in such a way filled me with excitement but also a strong sense of responsibility to work hard and do my community proud.”

Chloe Éyre, who also plays for Melton Centrals and the Falcons, also said it was a privilege to be selected in the first official Victorian First Nations team.

The Wamba-Wamba woman said she was

passed. He said speaking with the committee and executive committee that everyone was very happy.

“It’s a great chance tobecompetitiveagain,” he said. “We are under no illusions that we are just going to go in and win a premiership, “We’re happy to play in a league where we should be competitive.”

Collins said they wanted to thank the clubs andleagueforacceptingthem,whilethanking the Ballarat league for the great years they had been part of it.

The RDFNL has written to AFL Victoria and the Ballarat Football Netball League to inform them both of the RDFNL’s position.

A transfer of leagues procedure will now be followed as per AFL Victoria rules.

If AFL Victoria approves the move, the Panthers will be one of two new senior clubs next season.

Gisborne Giants, who have had under-19 football and D-grade netball this season, is set to have a full complement of teams next season.

Bozinovski resigns with United

Rhys Bozinovski will continue to call Melbourne’s west home after signing with Western United until the end of the 2026-27 A-League season.

Bozinovski, who played his junior soccer at Spring Hills, has amassed 25 performances for United, having made his debut as the third youngest player for the club.

He is currently part of the Australian under-23 side set up including just returning from the PacificAus Sports Football Series.

Bozinovski is set to launch his career even further and said Western United was the perfect place for him to do so.

“I’m extremely pleased to re-sign with the club for a few more years. It feels like home at Western, so it was a no brainer,” he said.

“It’s been a long journey starting in the youth team and it’s been a privilege to break into the first team and also get many national team call-ups as well.

“This season I feel more established and ready to go, and I feel very excited toplayinfrontofallthefansatIronbark Fields. It’s been a good pre-season and I can’t wait to give everything for the club.”

proud to be representing her state.

“I was very excited when I first heard about the indigenous team and I’m rapt to have the opportunity to be part of it,” she said. “I’m looking forward to meeting other indigenous girls and competing against the other states.”

All three said they were hoping the tournament would be a massive success.

Niki said she was hoping to see some ‘killer netball’ and meet some amazing girls, while opening up some more doors.

Butterworth-Gonebale said it’s about representing their people in sport and it building on what their communities state and national programs like the Budgies have been doing for years,

Eyre said she thought it would be lots of fun and something that she wants to be part of in the future.

RACV is partnering with Netball Victoria to help support the team as part of its’ efforts to promote First Nations participation.

RACV head of partnerships Megan Ballantyne initiatives like the First Nations Tournament improve accessibility of netball to diverse communities

United football general manager Mal Impiombato hailed Bozinovski’s early development and is eager to see more from the young midfielder.

“Rhys has been a credit to himself and our football club ever since coming into our environment and I am delighted that he has extended his stay for a further two seasons,” he said.

“In the three years he has been at our club, we have watched Rhys represent Australia, make his professional debut and go on to become an important part of our current squad.

“The future is certainly bright for Rhys and we are incredibly enthusiastic about his potential. I am looking forward to seeing him continue to push himself and become a key leader in our community, both on and off the pitch.”

Melton South is set to join the RDFNL. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Jemiah Niki with the goal attack bib. (Supplied)

New name and newlook logo for St Anthonys

It’s a new beginning for St Anthonys Cricket Club,whichhaschangeditsnametoHarkness Cricket Club.

The Gisborne and District senior club revealed the new name and a new look logo ahead of the season.

Club president Marc Turner said it was something they had considered for a number of years.

The club is based in Harkness which is behind the decision to change it to that.

“One of the main things is that people say where do you play? “ Turner said. “The name came from when we played in the Churches competition, which we haven’t been playing in for many years.

“We played against teams like St Johns, St Andrews.

“Some people didn’t want to associate with a catholic club and that hurt us. We thought we’d do a revamp and hopefully try and get a few sponsors and a few more players.”

Turner said speaking to the playing group it had been all positive.

He said they still wanted to keep the

traditions of the past and they didn’t want to forget the past despite a new name.

Turner said they were hoping to connect with the community more with the name change.

It’s been a tough few years for the club, but Turner said they were hoping they were starting to come out the other side of it.

“We haven’t had a sponsor so it’s been hard,

but we are starting to get back on our feet,”he said.

“Bar sales have been our main source of income, but our playing group has changed so we’re not selling as much.

“We’ve had the support of the players and a few more numbers, it’s looking like it could be getting better.”

Last season on field, Harkness had two

Devils get a third chance

By Tara Murray

Darley is hoping its third time lucky after winning through to the Ballarat Netball League grand final on Saturday.

The Devils, who have lost the last two deciders, were hoping they would have the chance to finally break through for the premiership this year.

Standing in their way on Saturday in the preliminary final was North Ballarat, the side that beat them in the last two grand finals.

TheDevilswereabletodoenoughinthelast quarter to open up a lead and it was enough as they won, 37-32 in changing conditions which included hail.

Devils coach Di McCormack said it feels great to be back in the grand final.

“I’m happy that we have got there,” she said. “We started rocky in the first quarter and we made too many mistakes.

“Credit to the girls, they normally get into their heads. They worked on our plan and they

got the job done.”

McCormack made some changes early on that she thought helped settle them.

The combination of Monique Nagle and Ella Closter in goals worked well, with Nagle back in shooter instead of out the front.

Closter started shaky but stood up well later as she returned from hand surgery. She still has stitches in her hand which McCormack thought was the reason for the slow start.

The other move was to bring Prue Stanley on in wing defence.

“She was outstanding,” McCormack said.

“She hasn’t played a lot of wing defence but putting her on gave us that speed.

“We knew she had the legs and she would have that patience and settle us and she did a fantastic job.”

After trailing by four at quarter time the marginwasbacktotwoathalftimeandscores were even at the last break.

The Devils made a couple of early errors before settling to run away with the win.

“We turned over five of their centre passes

teams.

It’s first XI lost the Jensen Shield grand final, while its second XI was ineligible to play in its grand final following a tribunal decision.

Turner said they were hoping to have three senior sides this season in a boost for the club.

Meanwhile, the fixture for the top two grades of the GDCA season has been revealed. Both grades will start with a one-dayer on October 5.

Broadford will play in McIntyre Shield for the first time since joining the competition, while Diggers Rest Bulla has been relegated to Johnstone Shield.

Johnstone Shield will have a new team this season, with Seymour-based Eastern Hill, joining the competition.

The division will have seven teams again, with Riddell dropping down into the Jensen Shield.

Anyone interested in sponsoring Harkness can contact the club.

Tara Murray

Sports shorts

VTCA

Sydenham-Hillside has announced another signing for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division season. Anthony Barton joins the club from Aberfeldie. Barton is a former Victorian under-19 captain and Footscray Premier Cricket premiership-winning opening batsman. The Storm said he brings a wealth of experience to an already strong batting order, The Storm was runners-up in its first season in senior division.

EDFL

Hillside star Josh Covelli has been named in the Essendon District Football League division 1 team of the year. Covelli, who finished with 98 goals in the regular season, was named at full forward. Despite the Sharks finishing third on the ladder, Covelli was the only player from his side named in the team.

FV

Melton Phoenix’s hopes of promotion are over. After finishing second in FV state league 4 west, the Phoenix faced Fawkner in the first of two possible promotion play off games. Fawkner, which finished second in state league 4 north, claimed a 3-2 win. Fawkner led 3-0 at half time before the Phoenix comeback fell just short as the Fawkner was down to nine men for part of the match. Fawkner progresses to the next round while the Phoenix’s season is over.

and we scored off all of ours which was the aim,” she said.

“That was the difference.”

McCormack said they were strong defensively as well with Anna Lawley and Matilda Elliot standing up.

Closter finished with 19 goals, while Olivia Cawthray finished with 14

The Devils now face the Sunbury Lions in the grand final.

The Lions beat the Devils in the semi finals in a match that could have gone either way.

“It was a game of momentum,” McCormack said of that final. “Hopefully we get the better of them like we did the first time round.

The Devils’ only other side in the grand final is their under-19s, who are going for back-to-back titles.

Like the A-grade side it will be their third straight grand final. They will face Redan, which they beat earlier in the finals.

Melton South will feature in the E-grade grand final against the Sunbury Lions.

RDFL

Diggers Rest made it three premierships in a row in the Riddell District Football League reserves competition on Sunday. After a 3.4 to nothing first quarter, the Burras were able to set the tone all day. The margin was reduced to 14 points at half time before the Burras kicked six goals to one in the second half to win, 11.5 (71)-4.4 (28). Jordy Brown, Rocco Scuteri, Brad Sluggett and David Tyquin kicked two goals each for the Burras. Tom Evans was awarded the best on ground medal.

St Anthonys will now be known as Harkness. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Darley’s A-grade side. (Supplied)

Keayang Zahara claims win over Violet Stanford

IT was billed as match race and one that had trotting fans salivating at the prospect of the unbeaten fillies Keayang Zahara and Violet Stanford going head to head in the Classic Connection Vicbred Super Series (3YO Trotting Fillies) Finals.

In the end punters got it right when they backed the Margaret Lee trained Keayang Zahara into $1.60 favoritism while the Nathan Jack prepared Violet Stanford drifted out to start a clear $3.60 second elect.

Jack, looking for an early advantage, pressed on for the lead from his wide front row draw and opted to maintain a genuine tempo during the middle stages of the event.

JasonLeemadeamid-racemoveonKeayang Zahara to sit parked outside Violet Stanford with a lap to travel.

KeayangZaharamomentarilydroppedinfor a trail before Lee pulled out on straightening and Keayang Zahara clicked into another gear bounding away from Violet Stanford to score by 13 metres in a mile rate of 1:56.8.

The race left leading race caller Dan Mielicki astounded as he was moved to say ‘she is the best three-year-old trotting filly I’ve ever seenand that’s a big statement’.

And then followed the ultimate accolade when Mielicki declared that ‘she took off like Maoris Idol in the last 50’ Lee, who gave a victory salute on the line, was delighted with the performance.

“Thisfillyisvery,veryspecialtous,”Leesaid.

“Atleastiswasgoodfortheraceeventhough I probably wasn’t enjoying it in the run but Nathan (Jack) made a real race of it with the two unbeaten fillies and it was good that she lived up to how good we think she is,” he said.

Lee admitted he had to make his move despite the genuine tempo set by Jack on the leader.

“IknewwewererunningassoonasIhooked out and that was how we found it with Nathan who drove a great race- he did everything he could to beat us,” he said.

Lee said the daughter of Volstead handled the false start with aplomb.

“I’ve got a lot more confidence now with her manners, she’s come a long way from as a yearling with a bit of a mind of her own,” he said.

Lee said there are a plethora of future racing options for the filly including a possible trip across the Tasman.

“TherehasbeentalkofgoingtoNewZealand with her but I’ll leave that up to Mum and the uncles or just staying home and picking up the good fillies’ races and perhaps the Derby,” he said.

ThewinwasKeayangZahara’sthirdGroup1 success from only six career starts and she has pocketed almost $150,000 in prize money.

John Dunne

Devils’ disappointment

By Tara Murray

Darley’s Ballarat Football League season is over with the Devils to rue missed chances in an overtime preliminary final loss to East Point.

Hoping to make it back to the decider for a second straight season to defend their title, the Devils suffered heartbreak on Saturday afternoon.

The Devils and Kangaroos were locked at the end of regular time before Kangaroos found something in extra time to claim the 11.14 (80)-10.13 (73) win and a spot in the grand final.

Devils coach Dan Jordan said they had their opportunities to win the game.

“We didn’t quite do it,” he said. “I felt like we had some really good periods where we controlled it and they did too, but couldn’t edge the gap enough to get ascendancy on the scoreboard.

“Wewerereasonablyconfidentheadinginto three quarter time, I thought we had played

well to that point.

“Eastwereprettyresilientandtheystayedin thegameandprobablyhadabitofmomentum going into that overtime.”

The margin was 16 points in favour of the Kangaroos at quarter time and then 16 points in favour of the Devils at the main break.

The Kangaroos led by just two points heading into the final quarter.

The Devils had the wind in that quarter.

Jordan said they had some really good opportunities to get back in front late in the quarter.

“Even in the last 20 seconds we had an unpressured snap on goal,” he said. “It went out on the full, in those games you always look back at the moments late in the game.

“There were plenty of moments early as well. Didn’t quite put enough gap where we wanted to.

“Overall we were happy with the game and how we played.”

The Kangaroos were up and about in the extra time period and were able to put it on

the scoreboard with three goals early.

Billy Myers kicked four goals for the Devils, while Joel Cadman and Brett Bewley named their best.

The loss ends the Devils premiership defence.

Jordan said they never felt like they were playing at full capacity this season.

“I felt like during the whole season we were chasing our tail a bit,” he said. “Injuries and so forth during the year and couldn’t quite settle our side.

“We hung in there and won the games that we needed to but we also probably not quite in that top two pack that East and Melton were.

“We came together late and were trying to play our best football. I had the feeling that we were chasing a bit, probably deserving that East and Melton play off in a grand final.

“Weren’t quite there for a number of reasons.” East Point will face Melton in the grand final on Saturday at City Oval from 2.30pm.

Lakers bow out of finals

Caroline Springs’ grand final dreams cametoahaltonSaturdayintheWestern Football League division 1 preliminary final. After two hard finals, including losing its semi final in extra time, the Lakers faced Hoppers Crossing in the preliminary final on Saturday for a spot in the decider. The Lakers were aiming to make their first division 1 grand final, having won their first final in this division a couple of weeks ago. It was toughconditionsatSkinnerReservewith rain, hail and plenty of wind making it tough for players.

The Warriors led by four points at quarter time before extending the margin to 13 points at the main break after kicking the only goal of the second quarter. Hoppers Crossing continued to grow the lead in the third quarter with the margin 18 points at three quarter time,leavingtheLakersataskinthefinal quarter.Thegamebrokeopeninthefinal quarter with the Warriors running out the stronger of the teams with six final quarter goals to come away with an 11.9 (75)-4.7 (31) win.

It was all single goalkickers for the Lakers.

BillyCrofts,MitchellBongiovanniand Max Tessari were named their best for the Lakers.

Jed Anderson, Ryan Kitchen and Chase Guy were named the Warriors best. Hoppers Crossing, which finished bottom last year, will now face Werribee Districts, last season’s premiers, in the grand final this Saturday at Avalon Airport Oval.

The connections of Keeyang Kurki. (Stuart McCormick)

Brett Bewley. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 403538_36

Keenan O’Shea. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 431493_05