Fun for the family
Local police are putting away their weapons and putting on their smiles for the Watergardens Community Fun Day.
Watergardens Shopping Centre will play host to a day endorsed by Victoria Police and Brimbank council on Saturday, October 19.
At the event, children can meet police officers and other emergency service representatives, with a range of activities and entertainment for the whole family. Police motorbikes will be available for kids to jump on, famous cartoon characters will be roaming the crowd and a sausage sizzle will be cooked up for all to enjoy.
The event will take place in the car park area in front of the Sydenham Library, from 10am to 3pm.
Watergardens Shopping Centre is currently under extra police supervision as part of Operation Cavalcade, and will remain that way until October 12.
Other popular centres such as Woodgrove Shopping Centre and Sunshine, St Albans, and Melton stations are also under higher levels of supervision, in attempts to reduce and catch violence and other crimes.
Brimbank Police senior constable Amanda Hall, leading senior constable Matt Mudie, leading senior sergeant John Harris, and Watergardens staff Minnie Phinkosol, Julie Watson and Muhammad Ali.
(Damjan Janevski) 432469_01
Fire caused no harm: EPA
By Gerald Lynch
The factory fire in Derrimut has been confirmed to have caused little or no harm to nearby residents, according to a report from the Environment Protection Authority (EPA).
OnJuly10,alargefirebrokeoutatachemical factory at 118 Swann Drive. The fire burned for approximately six hours before being brought under control.
An EPA spokesperson said air quality was not an issue during or after the fire.
“The report shows that while solvents stored
in the factory produced potentially harmful emissions during the fire and contaminated firewater that flowed into local waterways, particularly Laverton Creek, the temperature of the fire pushed the smoke plume to a high altitude,” the spokesperson said.
“As a result, air quality was a low risk to human health to nearby residents.
“Chemicalsinalllocalwaterwayswerebelow levelsthatcouldposearisktohumanhealthbut chemical levels in Kayes Drain and Laverton Creek could have been harmful to fish.
“This was resolved quickly and there was no
evidence of harm to wildlife.
“There was no evidence of harm in Cherry Creek or Cherry Lake and we did not find any persistent chemicals – like heavy metals or Perand polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).”
The report provided an overview of the air and water quality monitoring during and after the fire. It assessed any human health risks associated with air and water quality, as well as risks to the aquatic environment.
Both air and water quality testing results found little or no risk of harm to nearby residents. Any localised impacts to waterways
were short lived. Air quality during the fire posed a low risk to human health due to the high temperature of the fire pushing the smoke plume to a high altitude, and wind conditions dispersing and diluting the smoke.
Water quality testing showed there was a low risk to human health through accidental ingestion, inhalation or skin contact.
The EPA will hold a community information session to discuss the report and answer community questions, on Monday, October 14, from 6pm to 7.30pm at the Sasella Park Hall in Deer Park.
STAY INFORMED
Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial
Echoes of Wild
The City of Melton’s art exhibition program supports local and visiting artists to share their work with the community at a variety of places around the municipality throughout the year.
One of the exhibitions on show this month is Echoes of Wild, a series of artworks that explore balance, harmony and rhythm in relation to the natural world by Ana Hanson.
Hanson’s mixed media artworks on wood panels, utilizing pyrography, acrylics, oils, and collage, feature bold patterns and vibrant colours infused with the spirit of our time.
The exhibition invites viewers to explore landscapes with fresh eyes, emphasising the delicate balance needed in our interactions with nature.
Hanson is mixed media visual artist whose work reflects a blend of traditional and contemporary influences.
She specialises in landscape and nature-inspired art and offers a fresh perspective on the natural world.
The exhibition is on display at the Melton Library and Learning Hub at 31 McKenzie Street, Melton until Friday 31 January 2025.
Helping to reduce landfill
Free up space in your red bin and help reduce the amount of waste going to landfill by putting food scraps into your green bin.
Your green bin is called Food Organics Garden Organics or FOGO for short. It is an easy and sustainable way to dispose of organic waste.
Food scraps and garden waste from your FOGO bin is taken to a commercial composting facility to be turned into compost for use on farms and parks around Victoria.
By putting food scraps and garden clippings in your green bin, you free up space in your red bin and less food and garden waste ends up in landfill, reducing the production of harmful greenhouse gases as part of a step towards a greener future.
Bags and caddy liners are not accepted in food and garden organics bins in the City of Melton – even if they are compostable.
Instead, you can line your kitchen caddy, or any container for collecting food scraps, with paper towel or newspaper and empty them into the
Supporting carers in the City of Melton
The annual CARE Melton Expo returns this month.
The CARE Melton Expo focuses on health, wellness and support services by bringing local health organisations, healthcare providers and residents together to promote awareness and access to essential services and is held annually.
Carers, older people and people with disabilities will have the chance to talk directly with service providers about enhancing physical and mental health and wellbeing.
In addition to health-focused activities, the expo at Cobblebank Stadium will showcase various support services available in the area, including mental health resources, financial assistance programs, and social services.
More than 35 exhibitors who deliver care and support services to carers, people with a disability and seniors in the City of Melton will be available to talk to at the CARE Melton Expo.
There will also be a range of interactive workshops, seminars, and a sensory and chill out zone.
The Expo is an opportunity for carers to gain more support and learn about the services on offer in the City of Melton.
WHEN: Friday 18 October 2024
WHERE: Cobblebank Stadium, Stadium Drive, Cobblebank TIME: 10am - 2pm
Visit melton.vic.gov.au for more information.
green bin when full. Green FOGO kerbside collection bins are included as part of options A and B of your waste disposal fees.
That means households can have one green bin, in either 120 or 240 litres, at no additional cost.
Your green bin is collected fortnightly on the alternate week to your recycling bin.
Visit melton.vic.gov.au to find out more about bin collection days in your area and learn what goes in your green bin at melton.vic.gov.au/FOGO
Looking after your pets
Have you added any furry friends to your family in recent months?
Pets are an important part of the family and bring enormous benefits.
They also come with responsibilities, including the requirement to register your dog and cat with Council.
Registration means Council has an up-to-date record of your pet’s name and your contact details so we can quickly return lost pets to their owners. It also helps keep the community safe.
All dogs and cats aged over three months must be microchipped and registered with Council.
It’s easy to do, just visit melton.vic.gov.au/petrego
Brimbank heroin overdoses fall
By William Ton, AAP
More medically supervised injecting rooms are needed across Melbourne, advocates say, as figures reveal overdose deaths remain at near-record highs.
Brimbank recorded the second-highest heroin-related overdose deaths in 2023 with 14, a drop of five from 2022.
The City of Yarra, which hosts a medically supervised injecting room in North Richmond, recorded 19 deaths – five more than the previous year.
In 2023, 547 Victorians fatally overdosed – three fewer than the state’s deadliest year on record in 2022 – according to an annual
report released on Thursday by the Coroners Court of Victoria.
About three quarters of overdose deaths occurred in metropolitan Melbourne, with a majority involving multiple drugs.
Diazepam, a sedative often used to treat anxiety, was the deadliest drug contributing to overdose deaths.
Heroin accounted for the second-highest number of overdose-related deaths, but overall numbers decreased from 230 in 2022 to 204.
Methamphetamineswerethethird-highest contributor.
The City of Melbourne, where the state government abandoned plans to build a
second injecting room in the CBD, observed a fall in overdose deaths involving heroinfrom 24 in 2022 to seven in 2023.
The Victorian Drugs and Alcohol Association said the data showed a clear need for more medically supervised injecting centres in high-risk areas across Melbourne, not just the CBD.
Chief executive Chris Christoforou said the growing adulteration of traditional illicit drugs with fentanyl and synthetic opioids “only increases the risk that fatal overdose numbers will grow”.
Victorian State Coroner John Cain called for public health responses to be strengthened.
Young Alexis is shooting for the stars
The Smart Fone Flick Festival (SF3) is entering its 10th year, but one Braybrook contestant was nowhere near being born when it started a decade ago.
Alexis Truong, 6, has entered the festival for the first time, with her project ‘The Bumper Car’ about a crazy family holiday.
Alexis’ father, Tez Vi Truong is an independent film director, and said he has been her number one fan in deciding to try her hand at a film of her own.
“The story came about from her first experience in a bumper car, which happened
during a family holiday in Shanghai,” he said.
“My wife and I encouraged her to tell this story when we found a writing and storytelling competition with a kids category.
“As I am a filmmaker, she decided she also wanted to tell the story in a visual format, and asked me to guide her in using the iPhone and in-app editing software.”
He said there have been some setbacks, but Alexis hadn’t given up on her goal, and now has the chance to win big.
“She did not get into the finals at the
competition, but we encouraged her to not give up, and continue to be hopeful with future submissions,” he continued.
Alexis shot the whole film with an iPhone, putting together a short film that shows off her experience from her perspective.
“I love telling stories. This is my first film and I hope you like it,” she said.
Alexis and Tez will travel to Sydney in mid-November for a shot at taking out the best kids film award.
Gerald Lynch
“Drug-related harms are complex and are driven by a variety of factors including changes in drug use, availability and regulation,“ he said. “That is why coronial data is so integral to understanding how best to target resources and save lives.”
The report found men were twice as likely to die from overdose, and people aged between 35 and 54 most at risk.
Premier Jacinta Allan in April ruled out a second injecting centre, instead investing $95 million in health measures including a new community service on Flinders Street and further outreach teams.
Lifeline 13 11 14 beyondblue 1300 22 4636
AI election concerns
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expected tomakeanappearanceatlocalcouncil elections this month according to the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC).
Electoral Commissioner Sven Bluemmel has urged voters to think critically about campaign material, while encouraging campaigners to be transparent in the use of any AI-generated or AI-modified material.
In particular, the VEC is calling for visible labelling on any AI-generated or AI-modified election campaign material to ensure voters are not misled.
“Getting campaign information to voters is an essential part of the robust contest of ideas in any election. We know that voters are concerned about mis- and disinformation. Voters need reliable and trustworthy information tohelpthemmakeinformeddecisions about how to vote,” Mr Bluemmel said.
“That is why, as well as the usual authorisationstatementrequirements, I am urging campaigners to meet community expectations by clearly labelling any election material that has been generated or modified through the use of AI.
“There are no laws in Victoria that regulate truth in political advertising. Voters are encouraged to exercise their own judgement and think critically about the information they see, before deciding to let it influence their vote. Voters should look for an authorisation statement, showing who authorised the distribution of the material. This is a legal requirement for all election campaign material.
Voters are also reminded to visit the website at vec.vic.gov.au as the source of truth for all information about the election or electoral processes.
More warning signs needed to avoid river drownings
A report into the death of a man who drowned in the Yarra River says more signage is needed to warn of the dangers of swimming under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Frank Mellia was reported missing, feared drown, two days before his body was found on January 16, 2023 in the Yarra River at Warrandyte.
The 39-year-old Derrimut man met friends at Taroona Reserve January 14 with plans to
swim in the river.
Mr Mellia, who was known to have a drinking problem, met his friends in the car park and handed his suitcase for them to put in their car as he planned to stay with them overnight.
When they returned to the riverbank, Mr Mellia was nowhere to be seen.
Coroner Paul Lawrie found the cause of Mr Mellia’s death was a result of misadventure and that he had a very high blood alcohol
concentration when he entered the water.
“This would have grossly impaired his judgment and his ability to properly co-ordinate his efforts to swim, or to get to safety once he found himself in faster flowing water,” Mr Laurie found.
The Warrandyte reach of the Yarra River is a popular swimming spot and dominated by rock reefs, shallow and deep pools of water and large woody debris.
There are warning signs of strong currents,
submerged objects and sudden drops at other areas along the river, but not at Taroona Reserve, where it’s believed Mr Mellia entered the water.
Mr Lawrie recommended Parks Victoria review signage particularly at Warrandyte River Reserve and Taroona Reserve warning of the river hazards, as well as the danger of using alcohol or drugs while using the river.
- AAP
Alexis Truong, 6, has a short film entered in an upcoming smartphone film festival. (Damjan Janevski) 435251_01
Funds help women play
By Gerald Lynch
Women and girls in Sunshine will find it easier and more enjoyable to play sport as a result of a $75,000 grant to the North Sunshine Eagles Soccer Club (SC).
North Sunshine Eagles SC was selected to receive federal funding as part of the Play Our Way program, which is designed to remove barriers to women and girls participating in sport and physical activity.
It will use the money to offer an accessible low-cost introduction to football, where women and girls have access to a high-quality training facility and a welcoming and inclusive environment, while participating in a host of fun and practical activities.
North Sunshine Eagles SC is one of the
many groups around the nation which will receive Play Our Way funding for participation programs, or new or modified equipment suitable for women and girls across a range of sports and physical activity programs.
Funding is being offered to initiatives nationwide, with a focus on women and girls who face additional barriers to participation.
This includes First Nations women and girls, women and girls with disability or who are from culturally and linguistically diverse communities.
Fraser MP Daniel Mulino gave the club credit for its work in securing the grant.
“Congratulations to North Sunshine Eagles SC for its successful application for this grant,“ he said.
“I am confident its project to increase
participation of women and girls in local football will have a very positive impact for our community.
“Every person has the right to enjoy sport, in their own way and at the level that suits them.”
Federal Sport Minister Anika Wells said the Eagles will be afforded a level playing field with the funding.
“Play Our way is all about creating greater opportunities for women and girls to have an equal chance to get the fun, satisfaction and health benefits sport offers,” she said.
“Thehugeresponsetothisgrantopportunity, and the range of great project ideas, show that Australian communities want to be more supportive of women and girls.”
Details: health.gov.au/our-work/play-ourway-program
Factory blaze in Keilor Park
Just before 1am, Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) responded to the fire on Thomsons Road, where a 10 metre by 15 metre slab factory was alight.
Firefighters entered the burning building with hoselines and assisted by an aerial firefighting appliance began to extinguishthefirewhilstalsoprotecting adjoining fatories.
No one was inside the factory at the time of the fire.
The fire was declared under control at 01.42am, 44 minutes after FRV arrived on scene.
The cause of the fire is yet to be determined but will be investigated.
Victoria Police and Ambulance Victoria attended in support of FRV operations.
The factory on Monday afternoon. (Gerald Lynch) A factory in Keilor Park sustained significant damage when it when a blaze broke out on Monday, September 29.
School building boost
StAlbansEastPrimarySchoolhasunveilednew buildings and spaces, completely rejuvenating the school’s look and feel.
The science, technology, engineering and mathematics centre (STEM), art and performing arts studios, a community room, canteen, and brand new gymnasium were opened after a $16 million investment.
PrincipalPaulBusuttilsaidthenewbuildings are a huge boost for the whole school.
“We know that learning is not confined to textbooks and classrooms, but happens everywhere – in every conversation, every corner, and every experience,” he said.
“With these new facilities, we are creating opportunities for learning in ways that go beyond the traditional classroom setting.
“The design of these spaces invites students to take ownership of their learning and explore how the world around them can be their greatest teacher.”
He thanked St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman for her help in securing the funding.
“This generous funding has made these new facilities a reality, and it is a testament to your commitmenttoeducationandthefutureofour children,” Mr Busuttil said.
“Your support will leave a lasting impact on generations of students who will benefit from these state-of-the-art learning spaces.
“I would also like to take a moment to thank our school council members for their dedication, and tireless efforts throughout this entire process. Your advocacy for our school and students has been unwavering, and without your hard work, none of this would have been possible.
“To our students, these new buildings are here to inspire you. They are places where you can dream big, explore new ideas, and push the boundaries of your learning. The environment aroundyouisdesignedtobeyourthirdteacher, giving you the tools and space to achieve your fullest potential.”
Gerald Lynch
Prinicipal Paul Busuttil and St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman at the unveiling. (Supplied)
Fraser MP Daniel Mulino and North Sunshine Eagles girls players. (Supplied)
Anxiety proves more than a worry
By Cade Lucas
When people think of mental illness, depression is usually the first condition that springs to mind.
Yet being the best known doesn’t make it the most common.
Anxiety affects more Australians than any other mental health condition, with an estimated one in four people suffering from prolonged, intense and unexplained anxiousness at some point in their life.
If this comes as shock, wait until you see the gender breakdown.
While one in five Australian men will experience anxiety in their lifetime, for women it’s one in three.
Even mental illness has a gender bias.
And according to clinical psychologist, Dr Elizabeth Barson, it’s one that’s getting worse.
“For young women particularly between 16 and 24 there’s been a really dramatic increase in anxiety, like up to 40 per cent,” said Dr Barson of a trend that she’s quick to point out, pre-dates the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now the principal psychology educator at Western Health, Dr Barson has treated women with anxiety and other mental health disorders for 20 years.
She said while the causes of the increase among young women was unclear, the reasons why women were more prone to anxiety than men, wasn’t.
Biological factors, medical conditions,
previous life experiences and current life stresses are considered the four main causes of anxiety and as Dr Barson broke each one down, the gender imbalance didn’t seem so surprising at all.
“One of the big things is the hormonal fluctuations that happen for women during their reproductive cycles. Anxiety is much higher at periods when there are hormonal fluctuations.Allofthosehormonesareactually
We’re building an alternative to the West Gate Bridge and there will be disruptions
New lanes are open on the West Gate Freeway, work is underway on the road tunnel and we’re building better connections for faster journeys from the west to the city. As works continue, there will be road and rail disruptions.
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Sunbury Line 26 to 27 October North Melbourne to Sunshine 8.30pm to last train, 29 October
Road disruptions: Closed road and ramp
Williamstown Road, Yarraville Until 5am 17 November
Footscray Road, West Melbourne 8pm 11 October to 5am 31 October
City-bound exit ramp from the West Gate Freeway
City-bound between Dock Link and Appleton Dock roads
heavily involved in the brain,” she explained of a biological factor that overwhelmingly affects one sex more than the other.
As for life experience, Dr Barson said the prevalence of violence against women created a gender divide.
“Forty per cent of australian women will have experienced gender based violence after the age of 15 and those who have are four times more likely to experience anxiety, ” she said, adding that the economic and social factors causing current life stresses were also tilted against women.
“We also know that anxiety is much higher in the poorest one fifth of Australians than the richest one fifth and there’s a lot of gender based financial inequality for women too.”
Fortunately, there is some cause for optimism.
Women speaking up about their anxiety is much more socially accepted and much more common that it is for men and Dr Barson said once that happens, things can rapidly improve.
“The thing is there are very good treatments for anxiety,” she said.
“People who get evidenced based treatment are likely to get a big reduction in their symptomsandforsomepeopletheirsymptoms will go altogether.”
Those symptoms can include panic attacks, a racing heart, headaches and difficulty sleeping, while the most effective treatments are cognitive thereapy, medications (usually anti-depressants) and lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
Or as Dr Barson advised “the strongest evidence is for the combination of all three”. For help and information with anxiety, visit Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ or headspace: https://headspace.org.au/
Women’s health survey results: Page 12.
Western Health psychologist Dr Elizabeth Barson who specialises in treating women’s anxiety.
(Damjan Janevski) 434001
Ravenhall job need to be fulfilled
More jobs are on the way for the west, with Amazon set to build a new logistics site in Ravenhall.
More than 200 jobs will be created when the centre is fully operational, estimated to be at the end of next year, and 1000 jobs will be created in the construction of the facility.
The 8,800 square metre site is currently under construction in Dexus’ Horizon 3023 estate, and will also enable faster delivery to shoppers in the surrounding region.
Amazon Australia director of operations
Sandra McNeil said the facility will be a strong boost to the growing area.
“The Ravenhall logistics site enables us to grow our contribution to the local economy through the creation of jobs and flexible earning opportunities and we look forward to building on our strong relationship with the local community,” she said.
“We’realsoexcitedaboutwhatthisenhanced delivery experience will soon bring to our customers in and around Melbourne and Victoria.
“This is a massive win for jobs growth, will help local families find work closer to home and provide better and faster access to delivery items for our rapidly growing community.’’
Thenewlogisticssitewillbelocatedopposite Amazon’s existing Ravenhall fulfilment centre.
Amazon worked with Dexus to secure the location for the delivery station close to its existing Ravenhall fulfilment centre which is near the proposed Western Intermodal Freight Terminal.
Dexus executive general manager Chris
Mackenzie said “we are proud to partner with Amazon to support their growth across Australia“.
“This project represents the fourth facility beingdeliveredforAmazonacrossournational industrial footprint. Sites like Horizon 3023, Ravenhall industrial estate offer customers premium connectivity enabling them to get packages to customers faster and more efficiently.”
JobswithAmazon’sdeliveryserviceAmazon Flex will also be available for casual couriers.
Funding shortfall threatens African library future
Australia’sfirstAfricanlibrary,artsandhistory museum, Baai Alkebulan House, is at risk of closure after being launched in Footscray last year.
The sanctuary was founded by Tarneit’s Magang Reech assisted by the collective effort of Derrimut’s Guled Ilyas, Melton’s Titan Debirioun, Tarneit’s Ephraim Kassu, Agum Reech, Toto Reech and Matur Reech and Bishop Laryea from Sydney’s AYI Centres, all of whom have been instrumental in shaping the library’s vision.
The library’s supporters all came from a war-torn country and were raised in Australia and see Baai Alkebulan House as their way of giving back to the community.
The word ‘Baai’ means ‘house’ or ‘home’ and ‘Alkebu-lan’ is one of the ancient name for Africa, meaning ‘Mother of Mankind’ or ‘Garden of Eden’.
“What makes Baai Alkebulan unique is its holistic approach to preserving and promoting African and First Nations histories, while actively fostering intergenerational connections. We are more than just a museum or library — we are a dynamic space where African music, family development, and cultural heritage are at the forefront,” Magang explained.
“Moreover,BaaiAlkebulanservesasabridge betweentheAfricandiasporaandFirstNations peoples, highlighting their shared experiences of colonisation, resistance, and resilience. Through art, literature, music, and programs, we don’t just preserve history — we make it a living,breathingexperiencethatconnectspast,
‘‘ Baai Alkebulan serves as a bridge between the African diaspora and First Nations peoples, highlighting their shared experiences ’’ - Magang
Reech
present, and future generations in meaningful ways.”
Baai Alkebulan offers a range of art exhibitions, educational workshops, oral history projects, programs, cultural performance, legal training and excursions.
Magang is concerned there is a lack of sustained support and is calling on parents, educators, community leaders and policymakers to step up and champion their cause.
“Without immediate financial support, we risk closure, which would be a tremendous loss to the community and the heritage we seek to preserve,” he said.
“Baai Alkebulan is a vital cultural hub that nurtures identity, education, and unity. We need the community’s help to continue preserving African and First Nations histories and to provide a space for future generations to learn and grow.
“We realised Baai Alkebulan was at risk when we encountered significant delays in receivingcriticalfunding.However,weremain
committed to seeking new partnerships and opportunities to secure the support needed to keep Baai Alkebulan thriving.”
Hoppers Crossing teacher Asmait Reta has done important work in the six months since Baai Alkebulan’s opening and has seen a shift in young people, many of them at risk.
“The worst thing is when you don’t know where you come from or who you are. But when you know who you are, you’ll be proud of where you come from and that’s why I teach the kids about our culture. I also teach them how to live in harmony with other people and how to respect their family. When you tell kids a story, most of them ask questions which means they are interested and happy to learn somethingnew.Inthebeginning,thereweren’t too many kids coming, but at the moment, we had a lot of kids,” she said.
“I have met some parents at the library and they have thanked me for preparing their children for the future. For adults, we discuss what is going on in our life, share ideas and learn from each other because we want to be good citizens and parents.”
Director of Pam Disability Service and Truganina resident, Puonyuom Mathiang said migrant families have found healing and hope for a brighter future through Magang’s work.
“Magang is one of the most hardworking peopleIhavemetinmylife.Hehasputhisheart and soul into this. Not for his own benefit but for the benefit of the wider community. From babies, adolescents, young adults, parents and the older community, having a space like this
gives us parents comfort and a break knowing our children are connecting, learning and enjoying themselves in a safe environment and off the streets,” Puonyuom said.
“As a parent from my background, there is a disconnect between wanting and how to raise my child ‘Australian’ and ‘Sudanese’. I find it hard to find a community. Baai Alkebulan provides that experience. You can connect with other cultures, other people, parents and children alike have the opportunity to get together. Meeting other young mothers and understanding that we are all in this together is important.”
The closure of Baai Alkebulan House would disproportionately affect parents like Puonyuom.
“There is no other Library that provides culture specific learning that I am aware of or have access to. I would miss having the chance for my son to meet other young African kids, and myself other young African mothers,” she said.
“Young children and young adults would be at home or on the streets not doing anything productive in their lives. The culture would be lost. I have seen some of the young boys that would normally be stereotyped as ‘thugs’ in thatlibraryreadingandhelpingMagangsetup. It provides volunteering opportunities to keep everyone busy. Like I said, it is a community that would be lost.”
To help save Baai Alkebulan House www. gofundme.com/f/baai-alkebulan-urgentfundraiser
Afraa Kori
Back: King Sunday, Magang Reech, Ben Jydo Mayor and Viet Hai Pham. Front: Aynalem Kassu, Nasrine, aged 10, Sydney, aged 9 and Matur Reech. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 433679_06
Elite precinct takes off
Melbourne Airport has unveiled plans for the Elite Park development, an entertainment, leisure and retail precinct.
The 32-hectare site, located between the Tullamarine Freeway and Airport Drive, is expected to support 2140 jobs across a range of industries that will largely be filled from nearbycommunitiesinHumeandBrimbank.
The park is subject to federal government approval, but will be developed in three stages over approximately nine years, with hopes of development to commence in 2025.
The first new tenants are expected to be welcomed by the end of 2026.
Chief of ground transport, property and retail Jai McDermott said Elite Park is designedtoturntheairportintoadestination for work and leisure.
“Melbourne Airport is more than just an airport. We are building community spaces
that create jobs and places where people can spend time with friends and family,” he said.
“Urbnsurf is a great example of this.
Australia’s first surf park is now one of the mostpopularattractionsinVictoria,drawing hundreds of thousands of people each year.
“Elite Park will build on the success of this facility and support the continued growth of the City of Hume as a tourism destination.
“Elite Park will attract a range of tenants, including entertainment and leisure, food and beverage outlets, and large-format retail businesses.”
The plans for the proposed Elite Park precinct are on formal public exhibition from September 26, with the community invited to provide feedback through until December 20.
Details: melbourneairport.com.au/ community/elite-park-development
Briefs
Hillside stabbing
A man was stabbed to death in Hillside early on Friday morning. Emergency services were called after reports that a man had been stabbed at a Chris Court address about 6.50am on Friday, October 4. When police arrived they located a male on the front lawn of the property, with critical injuries. The officers attempted CPR but the man died at the scene. Police were then confronted by another man armed with an edged weapon. Police attempted to negotiate with the man before he advanced toward them. Officers discharged a firearm and the male was struck to the lower body. He was taken to hospital under police guard in a critical but stable condition. Police are not looking for anyone else in relation to this incident, and it is believed those involved were known to each other.
Free travel for seniors
The state government is offering eight days of free public transport for seniors card holders. The decision helps older people participate in the Victorian Seniors Festival from until October 13. The free travel applies to all forms of public transport including trams, trains, buses and coach services in metro and regional areas.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Enjoy Refrigerated cooling in summers Enjoy Heat pump warmth in winters
Replace with reverse cycle heating & cooling system
Artist’s impression of Elite Park. (Melbourne Airport)
Sunshine green housing boost
More housing is being delivered to Sunshine North with a milestone being achieved in the LUMA residential development.
Stage 1 of the development will have 86 homes and it is now 60 per cent complete.
Stage 2 will have a further 85 homes, with a focus on energy efficiency. The dwellings will be ‘all-electric’ with a range of sustainable features as standard to achieve a minimum 7-star energy rating, including solar PV systems with battery storage, double glazed windows, and heat pump hot water services.
Works are also underway on Willowbark Reserve, a 3600 square metre park that is set to become a key feature of the new development.
Incorporating existing trees, Willowbark Reserve will feature a children’s playground, sheltered barbecues, a picnic area and open spaces for recreational activities.
Development Minister Colin Brooks said the increased employment opportunities in Sunshine North, with 765 jobs being created,
was a big boost for the area.
“We’re unlocking surplus government land to deliver more homes to accommodate future growth in Melbourne’s booming western suburbs – close to jobs, transport and services,” he said.
“We’re making home ownership more accessible to more Victorians by opening the door to a broader range of income levels to enter the property market.”
Mr Brooks said a 2.5 per cent deposit is required upfront to secure a home in stage 2, and a further 2.5 per cent deposit six months after signing a contract, with no progress payments required during construction, making buying a house more accessible to families with a wider range of incomes.
St Albans MP Natalie Suleyman said LUMA will be a great addition to Brimbank.
“The west is proudly growing, and LUMA is creating a welcoming neighbourhood that will provide more homes and open space for everyone to enjoy,” she said.
A fluttering good time
To close out the school holidays, the Keilor Librarywastransformedintoabutterflyhouse.
Kids aged six to 12 had the chance to learn aboutbutterflies,maketheirownmaskstotake home,andevenseesomeupcloseandpersonal.
Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski was at the session to capture the fun.
Rayan, 8 (above), and Olivia, 6 (below), getting up close and personal.
Jaxon, 7, Taylor, 4, and Peter, 7, admiring the butterflies. (Pictures:Damjan Janevski) 435114
Living well at any age thanks to Uniting AgeWell
The secret to living well for Joan Tucker is doing the things she enjoys.
Joan, who at the age of 95 is treasurer at Pascoe Vale South Uniting Church, doesn’t need a calculator to work out her equation for happiness.
“It’s your attitude to life,” she explains.
“You can be old at 45, but young at 95. It’s up to you!”
Her cosy unit is her sanctuary where she spends her days reading, watching a bit of telly and doing crosswords and puzzles.
“Puzzles keep the mind sharp,” she says.
An astute mind and a flair for numbers is something Coburg-raised Joan has always had. She first used the comptometer, which preceded the calculator, and worked for 47 years in accounts and wages at what is now Vic Roads.
Over the years, Joan stayed with her parents and looked after them in their old age. Her Mum passed away at the age of 101.
Joan sold the old family home and bought her unit – all in the space of one day!
“The moment I saw my unit I thought yes, I can live happily here for the rest of my life,” Joan explains.
Thanks to a government-funded home care package through Uniting AgeWell, she continues to be content in her home and has some help when she needs it.
Joan reckons the longevity in the family can be attributed to a healthy lifestyle and good genes.
“My Mum and Dad were given a bottle of whiskey on their wedding day in 1924, and they put it in the cupboard to be used for medicinal purposes only. We must all have been pretty healthy over the years – it’s still unopened. I can honestly say I’ve never had a drop of alcohol in my life!”
If you are interested in learning more about home care packages with
visit unitingagewell.org/our-services/home-carew
Joan Tucker. (Supplied)
Unlocking potential worldwide
Eynesbury’s Tori Hirt is transforming education with the launch of her new school in Uganda as Afraa Kori reports.
Tori Hirt’s journey began with a powerful decision to leave her comfortable Australian life and gain a closer understanding of global issues in order to inspire change.
“I always wanted to do something regarding a school or an NGO (non-governmental organisation). This was the perfect option for me after my experience living in Uganda and it made sense,” said the 24-year-old.
“I witnessed a lot of corruption while in Uganda by those running schools, NGOs and especially in orphanages. This was a big drive for me, because everyone was looking like they wanted to help children and vulnerable individuals, but all money and benefits went into the pockets of directors and leaders that knew how to use the system to their benefits.
The Ugandan school system is also poor and childrenareoftenlefttofallthroughthecracks, so that was another big driver. Children have a lot of responsibilities at home which is also prioritised, health issues and extremely low financial environments really restrict children from attending school.
“It doesn’t have many welfare/support groups there and only a few schools had high school fees. So it made sense to establish an accessible education centre there.”
‘‘ Once we start looking into issues or areas that aren’t directly in front of us, perspectives and our lives truly change ’’
-
While the challenges looked gigantic, Tori realised it was the perfect opportunity to take on her dream project, which she has been financing from her own pocket so far.
“Corruption within areas such as children, vulnerable people is so high in Uganda and I want to do the right thing by the community and give them what they deserve and not lie or do it for the wrong reasons. I have worked in child protection within Uganda and worked closely with vulnerable kids, adults and especially women so this school really is for them. I just want to see people really grow and do well. This is also the perfect time for me, it just makes sense to do it now.
“Everyoneisdifferentandeveryonehastheir own goals such as building a house, having a family of their own etc. But I really just want to be able to help others and have a positive impact on the world. So opening this school really does mean the world to me and I just hope we do everything right by these kids.”
Due to welcome its first students in 2025, Lotus Junior School will benefit Ugandan students and families in the village of Nakalama, which is situated in the east of the country.
“LotusJuniorSchoolwillhaveabigemphasis on child safety and wellbeing,“ explained Tori.
“Ourchildrenwillbefedeverydayatnocost tothefamilies,meaningeverychildgetsameal which is not a common occurrence at all, most children do not eat and are left hungry while at school. Students will access free physical and dental checks twice yearly, parents will get school fee help and already reduced fees to reallyencourageschoolattendance.Schoolfees are compulsory at all Ugandan schools and if they are not paid, students are turned away and cannot attend. At Lotus Junior School this system has been removed and a new family support system is in place to encourage school attendance and help our community.”
Parents like Hussein Isabirye, who was concerned about the safety and education of his children, now has hope for a better future.
“I’m very happy for giving us Lotus Junior School and I appreciate the people of Australia for giving us that school in our society. I promise that we shall be together with it and support each other in everything.”
Building new connections with leaders and community groups in Uganda has helped Tori realise her dream.
“From the start of this project I had a very good friend who is our country director (CD) and principal at Lotus Junior School who is versed in business, welfare and the education system which made this process a lot easier. His knowledge and experience have assisted so much while we developed the school,” she said
“Land was easy to access. We got approval from the village’s chairman for the school and a written contract was made. The hurdles were generally things involving money and corruption. However, due to having Ibrahim actively apart of all things a lot of it was alleviated and we had really positive experiences while establishing the school.
“We have hired teachers and school staff, appointed leadership, expanded our land already due to growing demand and exceeding capacity. All buildings and land development will be finalised by December, which is really exciting for us all.”
Tori’s support system in Australia also provided unwavering encouragement and guidance.
“I worked in a school in Melton for 5 years, learnt a lot of administration, welfare and curriculum wise and then when I moved over to Uganda I was very connected with schools due to my role in child protection and safety. I witnessed a lot here, learnt a lot and hope I can really create something special that has a child focused approach and elements that can really enhance a child’s life.
“My youth has probably really influenced
my approach. I had opportunities to work and experience life overseas in vulnerable communities. I went to good schools, had positive role models and influences growing up and my family have always been so incredibly supportive and encouraging of all my ambitious and crazy ideas. I have also grown-up watching family members make incredible differences within the community and hope that I can contribute something even one quarter of the size of what they have.”
Tori hopes her journey encourages young people, entrepreneurs and educators to make a difference in their own way.
“Ihavelearntalotoflessons–Noteveryone has good intentions, protect your heart but never close it, be wise, show confidence and take lessons as a big win,” she said.
“Don’t regret missed opportunities, everything happens for a reason so take the opportunities. Ask for help always, get advice andsupportandgrowyourcircleofsupporters who will be there for you when you need it.
“Obviously at the moment there are a lot of crisis happening both domestically and internationally. I understand that times are hard for people to support things that they don’t directly see. Just because it’s global, in a small community/village that people don’t know about or haven’t heard of doesn’t make the lives of those there any less important. Once we start looking into issues or areas that aren’t directly in front of us, perspectives and our lives truly change.”
To support the school go to gofundme. com/f/lotus-junior-school
Tori Hirt
Every child deserves a chance to thrive.
Their smile says it all. Tori Hirt with young Ugandan students.
SHOWCASING BRIMBANK
Luba Grigorovitch MP is a dynamic force in politics, embodying resilience and passion in everyendeavour.Asadedicatedrepresentative, she channels her energy towards championing the concerns closest to her constituents’ hearts.
Ms Grigorovitch’s leadership is marked by a uniqueblendofempathyandtenacity,ensuring that the voices of her community resonate in the corridors of power. Her unwavering commitment to social justice, education, and community empowerment reflects a profound understanding of the issues that matter. Luba Grigorovitch MP stands as a beacon of positive change, inspiring confidence in her ability to navigate the complexities of governance and andshapeabrighterfutureforthosesheserves.
Trung Luu MP embodies the Australian spirit of resilience, determination, and opportunity. As your voice for the west, he is an avid advocate for the issues that resonate with his community, such as public transport, cost-of-living, infrastructure, and crime. His unwavering commitment to bring equal opportunity for all.
Green Gully Soccer Club
Come and enjoy all that Green Gully Soccer Club has to offer! Visit the bistro for delicious meals. Enjoy a parma on Wednesday or steak on Thursdays. Join us for Members Night on Wednesdays, participate in bingo on Thursday nights, or take advantage of Happy Hour on Fridays from 6pm to 8 pm. We have got something for everyone!
Mt Derrimut Golf Club
If you’ve ever wanted to try golf but weren’t sure where to start, this is your opportunity! Take advantage of free introductory golf
clinics at Mt Derrimut Golf and Community Club. Two 45-minute sessions run by PGA professionals and trainees. All equipment and balls provided complimentary. Mt Derrimut Golf and Community Club features an 18-hole golf course, driving range, premium club fitting, mini golf and a restaurant and bar with panoramicviewsoftheMelbournecityskyline. Golfers of all abilities and ages welcome! The club prides itself on being a facility for all. Bookings are essential and spots are limited. Follow the QR code to secure your space.
David Ettershank
Public transport must be accessible to all, but Melbourne’s west lacks reliable options. Some areas are completely cut off, or the services are so poor they might as well not exist. These ‘transport deserts’ are not just an inconvenience – they contribute to social disadvantage and isolation. People are forced to rely on cars, meaning further expense for households already doing it tough, not to mention the impact on the environment and congested roads. It’s time for a change, it’s time for better public transport for the West. Go to betterbuses4thewest.com.au to find out more.
Green Gully Reserve, Keilor.
Healthcare access a top concern
survey asking women to share their health concerns with us.
The campaign is stiving to address the systemic obstacles and barriers women must overcome when managing their health.
Access to healthcare and the costs associated with seeing a doctor are the top health concerns of women living in Melbourne’s western and northern suburbs, a Star Weekly survey has found.
As part of the Women’s Health Matters campaign, Star Weekly ran a six-week online
Survey respondents told us that their top health concerns were access to healthcare, affordable healthcare, healthcare providers’ lack of knowledge about women’s health issues, cervical cancer, breast cancer, menopause and incontinence.
A massive 76 per cent of survey respondents said they travelled outside of their suburbs to access healthcare.
Women who took the survey told us they
travelled between 20 and 50 minutes to access healthcare.
The most common reasons were to access specialist care and to see a trusted GP.
The survey also found that women living in the northern and western suburbs are typically waiting at least one month to secure an appointment with a specialist.
Thirty-two per cent of respondents said they had seen a specialist for a women’s health issue in the past 12 months, while 84 per cent had visited their GP for a women’s health issue in the past six months.
Women told us that most commonly, they had booked a GP appointment for concerns
about menopause and heavy periods, and to access cervical screening.
Sixty-eight per cent of women said they had accessed preventive health screening such as cervical and breast screening in the past year.
The results of Star Weekly’s survey mirror theoutcomesofastategovernment-runsurvey earlier this year, in which women and girls shared their experiences of feeling ignored or dismissed by clinicians who attributed their pain to psychological and personality factors, as well as culturally unsafe care. They also told the government about cases of delayed diagnosis, and the high cost of care.
Women’s Health Matters Survey Results
Women’s health issues you have sought help for in the past months
Cervical screening
Menopause
PCOS
Mental health
Heavy periods
Your top women’s health concerns
Access to healthcare
Affordable healthcare Healthcare providers’ lack of knowledge about women’s health issues
Cervical cancer
Breast cancer
Menopause
Incontinence
Blood pressure
Self-care
Periods
Endometriosis
Diabetes Low iron
•76% travel outside of their suburb to access health care.
•The top reasons for travel were access to specialist services and because you liked the GP.
•The average wait time for a specialist appointment was one month. What you told us...
•Most people travel between 20 and 50 minutes to access health care.
Have you seen a specialist for a women’s health issue in the past 12 months?
Have you seen a GP for a women’s health issue in the past six months?
Simplyregistertodayand
To solve a Sudoku
Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Ordering off the menu (1,2,5)
5 Southern European country (6)
10 Happen (5)
11 Not inspected (9)
12 Computer network linking newsgroups (6)
13 Benchwarmer (7)
14 Accumulated (8)
15 Sharp cutting utensils (6)
18 Sick (6)
20 Mixture (8)
21 Trap, catch (7)
24 Creations (6)
27 Assailant (9)
28 US city (5)
29 Tips (6)
30 Hailing from Tyrol (8)
DOWN
1 On (4)
2 Inherited from one’s family (9)
3 Biblical character (5)
4 Members of a trust (8)
6 1970s band, – Lake and Palmer (7)
7 Bread-maker (5)
8 Spoke to (9)
9 Cicatrice (4)
14 Neighbour of Mexico (9)
16 Grant (9)
17 North Italian region (8)
19 Tidiest (7)
22 Change smoothly from one section to another (5)
23 Cardinal direction (4)
25 Ladies’ man (5)
26 Conceal (4)
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words
four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 Nuuk is the capital city of which country?
2 Which Dutch explorer was the first known European to reach New Zealand?
3 Shirley Temple’s trademark song OntheGoodShip Lollipop was from which film?
4 The rings of Saturn are primarily composed of what?
5 ‘As-salamu alaykum’ is a spoken greeting in what language?
6 Mount Macedon is located in which Australian state?
7 A xylophone is made of what material: wood, metal or clay?
8 For which movie did Gary Oldman (pictured) win the Academy Award for Best Actor?
9 Turpentine is created by distilling what?
10 What is tyrotoxism?
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
Learn to Relax Group
IPC Health’s Living Well team is running a free Learn to Relax Group at IPC Health Deer Park, 106 Station Road, starting on Tuesday, October 15 at 11am. This group runs weekly for six weeks and is for people over 18 years who are interested in learning how to relax and finding ways to effectively manage their stress. Registration is required to attend this group.
livingwell@ipchealth.com.au or 1300 472 432
Women’s only conversation English Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to make friends, learn new skills and practice English in this fun and free women’s social group. Tuesdays during school terms, 9.30am-noon, at Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.
9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au
Crafternoons
Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to a free adult social opportunity to get together and be creative. Learn a new craft or bring along your own craft projects. Tuesdays during school terms, 12.30-2.30pm, at the Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.
9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au
Musicians Wanted
Westgate Concert Band is seeking new members. Do you play Woodwind, Brass or Percussion and are looking for a welcoming place to play enjoyable and challenging music?
Rehearsals held Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am to noon, at Braybrook College.
westgateconcertband@gmail.com
Sunshine Heights Junior Soccer Club
The club is on the lookout for more girls to join its junior soccer teams from ages under-8s through to under-14. If you are keen to join, training is held every Tuesday and Thursday at Castley Reserve from 5.30pm – except for under 14 girls who train from 6.30pm.
theclub@sunshineheightsjsc.com.au
Girl Guides
Brimbank District Girl Guides is inviting locals to come and try guides before committing to join. Girls aged 5-18 and adults are invited to enjoy the fun and friendship of guiding.
Carolyn, 0418 536 084
Al-Anon Family Groups
Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. Confidential meetings held at the Sydenham Neighbourhood Centre (rear of library) every Wednesday, from 1-2:30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary.
Kealba Car Meet
A typical first Sunday of each month in Kealba is a coffee and a car meet. The event has a strict no hooning policy, with car lovers of all ages encouraged to come down and enjoy the spectacle. Held in the car park of the Kealba Milkbar Convenience and Cafe, 29 Driscolls Road, from noon to 2pm, with the next meeting on Sunday, October 6.
Card games
Love playing the card game 500? Card games are played every Monday, from
7-10pm, at the Sunshine RSL offices, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine. Leisa, 0425 768 808
Sunshine Repair Cafe
Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Café in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.
sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082
Keilor Day View Club
The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies.
Robyn, 0425 387 880
Palliative volunteers needed
Mercy Palliative Care is looking for volunteers to visit palliative care patients in their homes to offer social support.
9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.
au
Deer Park Lions Club
Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new
This week’s photographer’s choice was of a possum at the Junior Ranger School Holiday Program. (Damjan Janevski) 434391_01
members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park.
Michael, 0417 307 572
Sunshine Community Brass
Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays, from 7.30pm.
Andrew, 0419 444 620
St Albans senior citizens
St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm.
Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day.
Roma, 0435 991 064
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
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 over, the lawn bowls season is already underway with practice games and tournaments. The Pennant competition starts the first Saturday of October.
Lyn Edwardes, 0412 406 462
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
The Stones to rock Stony Creek
With a name like Stony Creek Music Festival, it was only a matter of time before the music of the Rolling Stones would be featured.
The tenth anniversary edition of the Yarraville festival will be dedicated to music of Mick and Keith and company when it takes place on October 19 at McNish Reserve.
Yarraville locals and festival stalwarts Rebecca Barnard and Shane O’Mara will be joined by some of the country’s best musicians in playing Rolling Stones hits, while other acts including the The Black Curtains, Rosaries, Bowlos,andDelsinkiandtheQuietCoachman are also part of the line up.
“Absolutely,” said festival co-coordinator
Janine Wiggins when asked if the day was a homage to the Stones, before adding that it was much more than that too.
“Overallthefestivalisverymuchacelebration of our community who otherwise wouldn’t come together under normal circumstances,” said Ms Wiggins who has been involved in running the event since its inception.
“This year it’s the Rolling Stones, last year it wasTomPetty.We’vehadthePaintersDockers perform,” she said, listing off a string of local artist’s who graced the festival stage.
But of all the artists involved through the years, Ms Wiggins said Barnard and O’Mara were by far the most important.
“Rebecca Barnaard has been the absolute driver behind this and Shane O’Mara. Without Rebecca and Shane the festival quite simply wouldn’t take place.”
Thefamilyfriendlyfestivalrunsfrom1pmto 6pm on Saturday October 19. Entry is free and food is available, while picnics are also encouraged.
Cade Lucas
Exhibition echoes nature’s beauty
A new art exhibition in Melton explores balance, harmony, and rhythm in the natural world through mixed media artworks.
Echoes of Wild, by Caroline Springs local Ana Hanson, is open for viewing at the Melton Council Civic Centre from now until January 31 next year.
The use of pyrography, acrylics, and oils on wood panels create bold patterns and vibrant colours to embody a blend of modernity and tradition.
Ms Hanson said striking the balance was a “process of exploration.”
“I’ve been interested in incorporating unexpected uses of media; things you wouldn’t think of putting together like wood burning and aerosol,” she said. “I’ll go in with a rough plan but things will take an unexpected course… a lot of it is an adventure.
“In more recent years… I’ve been interested in finding ways to honour the tradition of landscape art but approach it in a way that is informed by the modern world.”
Most of the pieces were developed over 2024, but no matter how much time it took to make them, they always stuck with Ms Hanson
outside of the studio.
“A lot of heart and soul goes into the art –when I’m not making something it lives in my mind. It’s like a good book, you still think about it when you are not reading and an art project is exactly the same.”
Ms Hanson’s favourite piece is ‘Sunshine of the Valley’, which was inspired by nearby Organ Pipes National Park.
“It’s a relatively simple piece but I feel like it captures the vibrancy of modern style… I’ve always loved nature too.”
Eddie Russell
Join Western United for picnic on the pitch
Western United is welcoming one and all to Ironbark Fields this Saturday, October 12 for the inaugural Picnic At The Pitch family day.
The free event will kick off at 11am with the men’s squad playing in a intra-club friendly, after which the green and black community willhavethechancetomeetA-Leaguesplayers, watch on-stage performances and connect with the football community.
There will also be an exclusive membership offer available only to fans that attend the family day, so the club encourages everyone to visit the membership stand.
Kids can enjoy football inflatables, face painting, henna tattoos and the Wyndham Street Surfer Van, while bigger kids can hang out among market stalls, DJs and stage performances from the likes of Pataka Dance Group, Karen Community Dance Group,
Good News Luthern College, Club Iteka and Brazilian Drummers. Fans will be given one of the first opportunities to view the club’s inner sanctum with behind-the-scenes tours of Ironbark,
venturing into the change rooms and tunnels the players walk through every day. Therewillbeplentyofopportunitytoengage with the communities that are the beating heart of football in the west, with a number of junior clubs and Walking Football 4 Health Victoria setting up stalls on the day.
You can also view and pre-order the 2024/25 kits and pick up your latest bits of Western United gear from the merchandise van as well as free giveaways and lots more all throughout the afternoon.
A photo booth and food trucks will ensure happy memories will be captured and bellies won’t leave empty.
Registration: https://www.intix.com.au/ event/western-united-family-day?lid=9gbtlcx 93c6s
Jaidyn Kennedy
Lemony S Puppet Theatre is set to captivate audiences with its innovative production’Ada,Asmin&TheAnalytical Engine’ running for two exclusive performances at Bowery Theatre in St Albans as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival.
This enchanting tale intertwines the life of Ada Lovelace, the pioneering Victorian mathematician, with the struggles of Asmin, a newly-arrived Turkish refugee navigating remote learning during challenging times.
ThestoryunfoldsasAsminencounters amagicalcatnamedMrsPuff,whoguides herthroughthewondersofcyberspaceto connect with Ada across time.
This unique collaboration, featuring young performers Ada Williams Kriegler as Ada Lovelace and Asmida Aslan as Asmin, explores vital themes of education rights for girls and the empowering shifts that occur when young women pursue their dreams.
Drawingfromreal-lifeexperiences,the narrative sheds light on the challenges faced by girls denied an education worldwide, with significant input from Asmida and her family.
The production also incorporates mathematics crafted by Asmida’s father, Deniz Aslan, reflecting real-world academic struggles.
In addition to the stage performance, a companion documentary titled ’Purple Violets’ further pushes these themes, showcasingagirls’soccerteaminEastern Turkey and the ongoing struggles for gender equality in education.
Audiences aged seven and above can catch the show at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans this weekend.
It will run on Saturday, October 12 from 3pm to 4pm, and Sunday, October 13 from 11am to 12pm.
Tickets: melbournefringe.com.au/ event/ada-asmin-the-analytical-engine/ Gerald Lynch
Players will be on hand to sign autographs. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_417037_10
Asmida Aslan, Ada Williams Kriegler, and Mrs Puffs. (Phil Erbacher)
Stony Creek Music Festival musicians and organisers Michael Clarke, Mary Dowling, Rebecca Bernard, Janine Wiggins and Harry O’Mara. (Damjan Janevski) 434712_04
Artist Ana Hanson. (Damjan Janevski) 435242_01
SPORTS QUIZ
1. How many runs did Australian cricketer Travis Head score in the opening match of the ODI series against England?
2. How many non-Victorian teams play in the AFL?
3. In which year did Australia last win the Davis Cup?
4. How many votes did Patrick Cripps poll in his record-breaking Brownlow Medal win?
5. How many times has popular Supercars driver Craig Lowndes won the Bathurst 1000?
6. Which Victorian bowler took a remarkable 7/12 in a recent domestic One-Day Cup match against Tasmania?
The Wallabies lost by how many points in a close finish against the All Blacks in the first Bledisloe Cup Test?
The Australian Diamonds defeated which team 2-1 in a recent netball series?
Who is the only NRL player to have played over 400 career games?
In which year did current title-leaders McLaren last win the Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship?
By how many points did Brisbane defeat Sydney in the 2024 AFL Grand Final?
How old is 2024 AFL Norm Smith medallist Will Ashcroft?
13. Which Formula 1 driver was recently replaced by Liam Lawson in the RB Formula One Team?
14. Andrew McQualter was recently named as coach of which AFL team?
15. The Sydney Roosters and which other team are taking part in the 2024 NRL Women’s Grand Final?
16. Which legendary Australian singer joined Katy Perry as part of this year’s AFL Grand Final pre-game entertainment?
17. Roosters prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona will miss the NRL Grand Final after a failed judiciary appeal saw his ban extended to how many matches?
18. WADA recently appealed the decision to clear which tennis star of doping?
19. Former NBA player Montrezl Harrell is currently playing as an import for which NBL team?
20. NBA star Karl-Anthony Towns was recently traded to which team?
PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE A MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 4G/5G AT: BURNSIDE HEIGHTS RECREATION RESERVE, TENTERFIELD DRIVE, BURNSIDE HEIGHTS VIC 3023
1.The proposal to co-locate a Telstra facility with the existing Optus facility on the Council pole consists of:
Installation of (3) panel antennas 2.688m long at a height of 17m on the existing Council pole
Ancillary works including the installation of (6) Tower Mast Amplifiers, (6) Remote Radio Units, (3) Junction Boxes and a GPS antenna.
Installation of a (3) Telstra Out-Door-Units, (1) Extension Cabinet and (1) SPD Box at ground level
There is no height increase to the facility.
2.Telstra regards the proposed installation as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the description above.
3.In accordance with Section 7 of C564: 2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/ or comments should be directed to: Emily Wardlaw on behalf of Telstra, 0422 685 472, PO BOX 586, Elsternwick VIC 3185, consultation@acquirecomm.com.au by Wednesday 23rd October 2024. Further information can also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3023016
Telstra Limited A.C.N 086 174 781 Acquirecomm Pty Ltd A.C.N: 603 876 240
21. Tara Davis-Woodhall and her partner Hunter went viral for their celebration after she won gold in what event at the Paris Olympics?
22. And which event did Hunter then win gold in at the 2024 Paralympics?
23. Dacron, Kevlar and Vectran are all materials used in modern versions of what sport-related weapon?
24. Travis Kelce will make his acting debut in an upcoming Ryan Murphy show titled what?
25. How many players are on each team in a futsal match?
26. What part of an AFL uniform shares its name with a breed of dairy cattle?
27. The GWS Giants mascot G-Man has what colour hair?
28. Which beverage company sponsors teams in soccer, ice hockey, Formula 1 and NASCAR?
29. Iconic soccer player Mia Hamm won how many FIFA World Cup championships in her career?
30. And in total how many World Cup tournaments did she compete in?
Tara Davis-Woodhall
Practical, stylish and easy to drive
By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring
Mitsubishi ASX is the smallest vehicle in the company’s four-model SUV range beneath the Eclipse Cross, Outlander and Pajero Sport.
ASX (the acronym stands for Active Sports Crossover, not Australian Stock Exchange) has been around since 2010 and competes against a host of rivals in the small SUV category including Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, Kia Seltos, Subaru XV, Toyota C-HR and the class sales leading MG ZS.
Despite being largely unchanged throughout the decade, ASX has been a star performer for Mitsubishi thanks to a combination of sensible design, functionality and sharp pricing.
The ASX comes with the choice of six variants: GS, ES, MR, LS, GSR and Exceed. The first four are powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine, while the GSR and Exceed step up to 2.4 litres. GS comes with the choice of manual or CVT automatic transmission, all others are auto only.
Buyers looking for a used ASX will get the option of diesel power and/or all-wheel drive but the current model only has petrol and front-wheel drive.
Prices range from $24,490 for a manual GS though to $35,240 for the Exceed.
Styling
Recent upgrades have given ASX a much bolder look especially with the latest version of the Mitsubishi Dynamic Shield front end. That and other tweaks have turned it into one of the best-looking vehicles in its class.
Wheels range from 16-inch steel with the GS to different styles of 18-inch alloys in the other variants.
LED headlights and daytime running lights are standard on all models with ES and above adding LED fog lights.
Our test vehicle was the ES model with a new Street accessory pack.
The pack adds a large black front spoiler, front and rear skid plates in black with red highlights, black tailgate protector, black exteriordoorhandlecovers,stainlesssteeldoor scuff plates and ‘Street’ decals.
Interior
The dashboard of the ASX reflects the vehicle’s age with a small 8-inch touchscreen at the centre rather than the larger sweeping screens that are now in fashion. However, as was the case with the ignition key, we don’t mind that at all. The screen is angled towards the driver and within easy reach.
Importantly, the aircon and audio controls are large knobs located below the screen that can be operated with minimal driver distraction.
Rear seat legroom is pretty good for all but more than six-foot passengers who will need the usual compromise with those in front. Five can be carried but it’s better if the three in the back are kids.
There’s good headroom in all seats, although that could be an issue with the panoramic sunroof in the top-of-the-range Exceed.
Models up to the LS have fabric seat trim. The GSR gets microsuede trim and synthetic leather bolster with Exceed having powered and heated leather seats.
The gear shifter in ES Street is trimmed in aluminium and leather.
Bootspaceis393litreswiththerearseatbacks in place.
Engines/transmissions
Going against the present trend towards turbocharging, both ASX engines are naturally aspirated.
The GS, ES, MR and LS get a 2.0-litre powerplant with outputs of 110 kW and 197 Nm at 4200 revs. The GSR and Exceed come with a 2.4-litre engine with power of 123 kW and torque of 222 Nm at 4100 rpm.
The GS manual has five speeds. All other models have continuously variable automatic transmission.
Safety
Standard
safety features across the ASX range include seven airbags, enhanced ABS brakes, emergency stop signal, forward collision mitigation,activestabilityandtractioncontrol, hill start assist, rear view camera, and two Isofix child seat anchors.
The entry-level ES can be ordered with an ADAS package which adds lane departure warning; automatic dusk sensing headlights; blind spot warning; lane change assist; and rear cross traffic alert. These features are not available in the MR but are standard in the LS, GSR and Exceed.
Infotainment
All variants have an eight-inch touchscreen system in the top centre of the dashboard. It’s clear and easy to read with only minimal distraction needed to operate. There’s also voice activation.
Bluetooth pairing is fast and intuitive and there’s smartphone mirroring through wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto along with DAB digital radio where available.
The Exceed gets a nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate premium sound system as well as integrated satellite navigation. Other models get four- or six-speaker generic audio.
There are twin USB-A ports at the base of the centre console in the GS and ES and two more, also USB-A, in the rear of the higher-spec models.
Driving
The ES Street that we tested had an ignition key rather than the almost universal push-button start in its competitors. That’s not necessarily a negative, especially with older buyers like ourselves,wholikethefactthatwealwaysknow where the key is located instead of rummaging around trying to find where you’d tossed the key fob.
For those who prefer push-button start, it’s standard from the LS models upwards.
The ASX is easy to drive and while not sporting it handles normal day-to-day driving competently. Ride comfort is good and the suppression of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) works well.
The 2.0-litre engine does not reach anything like peak power of 110 kW until 6000 rpm, while torque is similarly tardy, at 197 Nm at 4200 revs.
The continuously variable transmission performance was adequate in city driving but came up wanting on overtaking. Sports mode had the ASX upping the ante with six-step operation.
It’s nicely responsive, which we like as it’s more pleasant to drive than many of the small displacement turbo-petrol engines that are in vogue nowadays.
Steering has a pleasant nice feel and gives the driver good response. Cornering is simple and the ASX generally follows the chosen line without you having to correct it midway through.
Road noise is generally well damped, but some stretches of Australia’s notorious coarse-chip surfaces set up a fair bit of noise in the cabin.
Fuel consumption with the 2.0-litre engine is listed at 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres. During our usual mix of urban and motorway conditions we averaged 9.1 L/100 km.
Summing up
The Mitsubishi ASX is a bit of an enigma because,despitebeingstillinitsfirstgeneration after 14 years, it remains one of the best-selling vehicles in the compact SUV segment.
Having said that, regular styling, technology andsafetyupdates–togetherwithkeenpricing – has allowed it to keep pace with its many, much younger rivals.
It’s practical, stylish and easy to drive and will appeal to both young families with preteen children and retirees alike.
Note that Mitsubishi is headlining its advertising with an industry-leading 10-year warranty. It certainly sounds attractive on the surface but less so when you drill down because not only is the 10-year deal dependent upon having all servicing done exclusively at Mitsubishi dealerships, but also the distance is limited at 200,000km.
If you choose to have your servicing done elsewhere then the coverage drops down to five years and 100,000 kilometres.
No doubt that will suit many buyers but deter others. Do your own sums.
Despite being largely unchanged throughout the decade, ASX has been a star performer for Mitsubishi.
The weather gods weren’t on the side of cricketers, baseballers and lawn bowlers as many seasons kicked off on Saturday. While many were cancelled midway and others rained out on the day, there was still plenty of action with StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic getting some of the action.
Wet weather mars season start
East Sunbury players walk off. 435787_04
Romsey’s Taylor Stevenson and Chris Burkett. 435786_03
Eynesbury’s Jamie Bolger. 435787_02
Gisborne’s Riley Vernon. 435786_10
Bryce Fleming in Broadford’s McIntyre Cup debut. Ljubica Vrankovic_435783_06
Damien Edwards dives to make his ground. Ljubica Vrankovic_435783_22
Sunbury United’s Fabian Fernando and Damien Edwards. 435783_01
Rupertswood celebrates Matt Twentyman’s best on ground performance. 435782_21
Gisborne ahead of its round one clash. 435786_01
Sunbury Kangaroos’ Michael Fox. 435782_01
Gaskett carries on family football tradition
When Keilor’s Jhett Gaskett claimed the J.Coleman Medal as the best player in the Essendon District Football League premier reserves competition, he was unaware of an amazing family connection.
Gaskett, who returned to football this season, polled 22 votes to finish 10 clear of teammate Melvin Tataya at the league awards night.
Winning the medal was a shock to begin with. An even bigger shock came the next day. “I didn’t know what to expect but I didn’t think I would win it,” Gaskett said. “I went to show my grandfather [Michael Kemp] the next day and he said I’m pretty sure I won that.
“He found his medal in his hanky draw.” Kemp won his in 1979 when he was playing for the Essendon High School Ex-Students side.
Gaskett said it would have been nice had he
played for Keilor too, but it was still a special moment for the pair to both have won the medal adorning the Essendon full forward’s name.
“I was in real shock,” Gsskett said. “To do it 45 years apart that is crazy
“He was getting emotional as anytime he does when his grandkids do well. When we were getting the photo, he almost had tears in his eyes.
For Gaskett, it was a return to football this year.
Last year, he spent the winter in England. He went over with his brother Matthew, who was keen to play some cricket over there.
Jhett said he wanted to travel and cricket was just something to do over there.
Before that Gaskett had played juniors and under-18s at Keilor. He also played 15 games with the Western Jets in 2022.
Gaskett said he had so much fun this season.
“I was rapt,” he said. “I had a bit of time off footy and I came back to play with my mates.
“I loved it but I definitely didn’t expect it [winning the best and fairest].”
Topping off the season for Gaskett was a premiership. He said it was lot nicer to win it in the manner they did after his last premiership in 2019 came after the siren.
Gaskett said he was unlikely to play cricket in the off season. He’s got another sporting achievement in mind.
“I’ve always wanted to play senior football,” he said. “When I played juniors we used to play on a Sunday and then we’d watch the seniors and run water on the Saturday.
”I want to strive to play at the highest level I can. I want to knuckle down with footy pre-season and have a crack at breaking into a strong senior team and see what happens.”
Tara Murray
Hughes makes history
By Tara Murray
Burnside Heights’ captain Jordan Hughes didn’t think he’d done enough to come away with the Essendon District Football League division 2 best and fairest.
Already a winner of the medal, Hughes was in front heading into the final round from Joshua Trembearth.
Hughes didn’t play the final round, so it was a nervous watch.
He managed to do enough to hold on, winning on 20 votes, one clear of Trembearth.
“I knew I had a reasonably good first half but I was found a bit wanting in the second half of the season,” Hughes said. “Having not played the last game, I didn’t think it was going to help me.
“It’s just an honour to be here around it all with five other players from my league, just goes to show the depth and quality that we have. It’s amazing.”
The Bears captain, who was also named captain of the division 2 team of the year,
thought teammate Lachie Evans would take home the medal.
Evans finished in equal third on 16 votes with Sunbury Kangaroos captain Mitch Streiff.
“I had him pencilled in to win, probably $1.50,” Hughes said of his ruck.
“He makes my life a lot easier in the ruck-midfield combo. I can’t do what I do withouthimhelpingmeout,he’sbeenawesome this year.”
Hughes played a slightly different role this season than what he did last year. With a couple of high quality forwards added to the team, he could spend more time in the midfield.
“Last year we didn’t have that quality and height to play that position,” he said. “Causing me to spend a bit of time down there as well.
“Definitely freed me up a bit. Still like to get down there and kick a goal, everyone loves that.
“It was good, it allowed me to spend a bit more time on the ball.”
Last time Hughes shared the award with Cooper Keogh, who has now gone on to play in the Victorian Football League.
Castello new Blues coach
A familiar face will take on the senior women’s coaching role at Keilor for next year’sEssendonDistrictFootballLeague women’s premier division season.
The Blues recently announced Giovanni Castello as coach for the next two years.
He spent several years as part of the Blues girls junior program and coached theclub’sunder-18girlstoapremiership last season.
Castello said he was excited to get back into coaching at Keilor
“The role became vacant and I felt like they needed some direction,” he said. “I coached a lot of the 18s to a premiership last year.
“I think they needed a voice they had heard before and we wanted to keep them all at the club.
“I want to get us back to where we should be.”
Castello stepped away from coaching this year with his daughter, part of the Western Jets Coates Talent League program.
Hesaidhavingcoachedmanyofthose girls for three to four years they needed a new voice for their football journey,
The under-18s managed to win another premiership this year.
Castello said the talent in the club was one of the reasons why he was keen to take on the women’s role.
“I know most of the girls and that’s the main reason I took on the job,“ he said.
Hughes said it was a little bit different winning it by himself.
The win makes Hughes the first player to win two division 2 best and fairest medals.
Not bad for someone who didn’t play any footballforsevenyearsashefocusedonplaying basketball in the Big V.
“Basketball was always my thing,” Hughes said. “I played footy very sporadically over the years.
“I was always a basketballer, I never thought I would win a club best and fairest, to be honest, let alone a league one.
“Pleasantly surprised.”
Hughes said there was a lot of motivation in the group after a straight sets finals exit.
“Especially amongst the older guys,” he said. “Try and spread that knowledge that it’s not an easy job to get to where we got to.
“You have to hold some of that, keep some of that fire and juice going for the following year. To fall short when we did, injuries aside, it burns.
“Hopefully we can go two steps better.”
“Ït’s worked the last four years and we’ve had growth in the women’s program. It’s an exciting time for us.“
After finishing second bottom this year with just two wins, the Blues are hoping to rise back up the ladder.
Castello said it would be a process building the side back up and he expected them to be more competitive next year.
“We’ll probably have half a dozen or so under-18s come up,” he said. “We might have some who left the club come back and we’re confident in getting a full list together for next year.
“The girls stuck fat with it this year showed a lot of resilience. Most of them are coming back.“
Castello said the club was really keen to increase its commitment to women’s football and they were would be plenty of growth through the ranks.
Tara Murray
Jordan Hughes. (Tara Murray)
Jhett Gaskett (right) and his grandfather Michael Kemp. (Supplied)
Guy Barbuto signs on to lead Sunshine as coach
Sunshine has backed in Guy Barbuto to lead its return to Western Football League division 1 next season.
Barbuto took over as the Kangaroos coach part way through this season when Ben Chapman stood down due to work commitments and helped guide the side to premiership glory for the first time since 1976.
The club announced that Barbuto would remain in the role for the 2025 season after the success the club had this year.
Barburto joined the Kangaroos for the 2024 season having been involved of a number of other successful programs, including the Calder Cannons, Avondale Heights and Keilor. The coaching panel will remain the same with Barbuto saying they might add one other person to top it off.
“It is good,” he said. “I had to work around someworkcommitmentstomakeitachievable.
“I’mgratefulandreadytocrackin.Hopefully we retain everyone bar the retirement of Murray Boyd.
“I’m looking forward to it.”
For Barbuto it’s the first time he’s been directly involved in division 1 as a coach or player.. Though, his father was at Parkside manyyearsagowhenitwasindivision1,which Barbuto remembers.
Barbuto said it was an exciting time for the club going forward.
“We have a google young group, especially a lot of 24-28 year olds,” he said. “They are all staying and our under-18s and reserves won the premiership too.
“There’s depth in the ranks that makes our job easier.”
Barbutosaidtheyhadalreadystartedlooking at recruiting.
The first role they’ll be looking to fill is the
ruck spot that is left vacant by Boyd.
“He’ll still be around the club,” Barbuto said of Boyd. “He loves having a beer with the boys. “Losing him is like losing a father figure on the field, that is what will hurt us the most.”
Barbuto said they would also look to add another key defender, a key forward and an experienced midfielder.
The Kangaroos in their announcement said that Barbuto had added a wealth of knowledge and guidance to the football program and they look forward to continuing the progression for season 2025 and beyond.
Meanwhile, Sunshine has started announcing its re-signings for next season.
The first announcement was captain Patrick O’Keefe with Daniel Torcia also on board for next season.
Tara Murray
Paech wins Priest medal
By Tara Murray
The regular long trip down to Caroline Springs paid off for Alex Paech, who was crowned the Western Football League’s Barry Priest Medallist.
Paech, who joined the Lakers this season, was a fly-in, fly-out player, with work commitments in the Alice Springs.
On Thursday night, he was awarded the Western league’s highest men’s honour.
Paech finished on 16 votes, two clear of Dillon Viojo-Rainbow, who was going for his third straight Priest Medal.
Paech, who happened to be in Melbourne for the awards night, said it was a pretty special honour.
“It’s back to reality now,” he said on Monday. “I start the NT [Northern Territory} season on Friday.
“It was a massive honour and you don’t play for those sorts of accolades. They brought me in as a FIFO [fly in, fly out] player this season and to see the rewards for all those efforts is nice.”
Paech played just eight games during the regular season, the majority in the first half of the season.
He said he thought he could poll some votes early but others would overrun him, but with it being a low count he was able to hold on.
Paechsaidyouhavetohaveareallypositive attitude to be a player that flies in for games. “I flew in for eight games,” he said. “It’s not too bad if you have the right attitude.
“It can be tough and it can be tiring, but you have to stay positive.”
Paech played in the club’s three finals matches as well. He was named in the best in two of those three games.
He said it was disappointing not to go further in the season, but there were a lot of positives going forward.
“I could not speak highly enough of the club and the culture,” he said. “I think it was definitely disappointing [the end].
“But we lost by 10 goals to Yarraville in round one and then we went on to make a preliminary final.
“We were disappointed to not make the grand final and push for some finals success.
“There’s a lot of young boys still two to three years off their best footy which is a positive.”
Paech will now focus on the NTFL season. It will be a new challenge for him.
“I’m playing with a new club this season,” he said. “I’m playing for Nightcliff which made the grand final last year.
“Hopefully I came contribute in some way to them being a successful club.”
Sports shorts
EDFL
Hillside has announced the signing of Danica Pedersen for the 2025 Essendon District Football League women’s premier division season. Pedersen is a Victorian Football League women’s listed player at Williamstown but comes to the Sharks with plenty of experience at the Seagulls, Collingwood and Carlton. “We are super excited with this addition and look forward to Danica bringing leadership and defensive capability to our backline next season,” the Sharks said in their announcement.
Coates Talent League
Sunshine’s Xavier Kardachi and Yarraville Seddon’s Sierra Grieves took out the top awards at the Western Jets best and fairest awards night. Kardachi won the boys best and fairest on 20 votes, one clear of Keilor’s Thomas McGuane.and Lucca Grego another vote back. In the girls best and fairest, Grieves finished on 30 votes, three clear of Maribyrnong Park’s Alex McBride-Loane with Keilor’s Olivia Castello in third.
EDFL
Taylors Lakes has announced its first new signing for next year’s Essendon District Football League division 1 season. Jake Hobbs, who has played plenty of football at the Lions, returns. He has spent time at Essendon’s Victorian Football League program while he’s more recently played with Bundoora and Deniliquin. The club said Hobbs brings leadership, experience, a high football IQ and skill level that is second to none.
VAFA
PEGS has announced Dr Rob Kerr as its coach for next year’s Victorian Amatuer Football Association season. Kerr is a former PEGS student and first football captain before going on to play in the AFL. Kerr has worked as a sports psychologist for both the Sydney Swans and North Melbourne and served as assistant coach to Kevin Sheedy at Essendon. He was also the Bombers football operations chief executive and was chief executive of the AFL Players Association. More recently he has coached Gisborne to back-to-back under-18 premierships in 2022-23 in the Bendigo Football League.
Alex Paech. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 430075_11
Guy Barbuto. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 431491_05
Cougars are ready for exciting new challenge
Sunshine YCW is hoping to carry the momentum of the last Victorian Turf Cricket Association season into this season.
The Cougars first and second XI teams both claimed the premierships last season and will play in the division 4 and division 4 seconds competitions respectively.
Cougars secretary Rory O’Connor said they were keen to get back out on the pitch.
“It’s looking really good,” he said. “We’re very excited by what is to come.
“I think winning a couple of flags helps and we’ve done a lot of work to develop the culture and we want to make off field really good.
“We want to get as many numbers as we can.”
The Cougars have added six or seven players with most of those players under the age of 25.
O’Connor said it meant that there would be plenty of pressure for spots across all the grades.
“Guys will be dropping down the ranks and they will try and keep the retention
of their spots.”
Bailey Williamson, a middle order bat, has joined the club from Albury-Wodonga.
Connor Marum joins the club having spent the past eight seasons playing with Coburg at the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association.
Jarrem Jefferies-Hayes and Charlie Carter both return to the club after playing elsewhere which is a positive sign.
Jefferies-Hayes is a top order bat and Carter is an all-rounder.
O’Connorsaiditwasmassivegettingformer players back to the club.
“Charlie Carter is coming back from Coburg which is good for us, he won a few junior flags with us.
“Hamid Diab had a bit of time off last year for year 12 and is back this season as well. We call him the general for his tactical nouse of depth.”
Having gone up a grade after winning division5lastseason,itwillbeanewchallenge
for the group.
O’Connor said it would be interesting to see how they went.
“I think there’s a few differing views,” he said. “[Coach] Lachie [Lewin] to go on with how we’ve been going.
“From my point of view, I’m happy to see how we go. Expectations can keep changing throughout the year.”
The Cougars third side was in action on the weekend as it kicked off its season.
The top two grades had to wait another week with the VTCA making the call that not enough grounds were ready to play on Saturday and cancelled all games.
The match will be played on the catch up round.
Sunshine YCW is now set to start its season this Saturday against Laverton.
Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association also cancelled action on Saturday with round one now a one-dayer this Saturday.
Eagles’ positive start
By Tara Murray
The Sunshine Eagles promising start to the Baseball Victoria summer league premier leaguewasbroughttoahaltbyrainonSaturday.
The Eagles faced Fitzroy on Saturday in round one and led 2-0 after two innings. Rain then hit and that would be it for play.
The game was declared a draw as five innings weren’t reached.
Eagles coach Stuart Clayton said they had been looking really good early on.
“It bucketed down for a good hour,” he said. “We didn’t get to play enough innings.
“They didn’t get a hit and we had five or six hits in the first two innings but we couldn’t keep the rain away.
“It was still pretty good and we were able to get a couple away.”
Clayton said it had been a really positive off season for the club and they would only get better as the season goes.
The Eagles were missing several key players in their opening match.
Australian star Darryl George was on holiday and will soon join the Australian squad and he won’t play many matches this season.
Main pitcher Jamie Young is out injured.
“He’s got a back injury,” Clayton said. “He won’t play until after Christmas.”
Import James Williams III is due to arrive in time for round three.
Williams is from Huntington Beach in Southern California and played college at William Jessup University and University of California.
Clayton said the footage he had seen showed that he could swing a bat and was handy in the field.
“We’re looking forward to him coming,” he said. “He’s a catcher and he looks really good.”
The Eagles also added a number of players in the off season. Tayler Rowe, who hasn’t played for seven years, pitched on Saturday.
Billy Parsons, who claimed the league’s best player award for the 2020-21 season, will also be back around his Australian Baseball
Sandra Ibarguen is set to inject an explosion of athleticism and flair into theWesternUnited’sA-Leaguewomen’s attack with the Colombian striker signing on for the 2024-25 season A-League women’s attack with the Colombian striker signing on for the 2024-25 season.
The 22-year-old arrives with a burgeoning reputation in her homeland having represented Colombia at under-20 level and broken through at club level in the top division.
Ibarguen is coming off a season where she scored six goals in 12 matches for Deportivo Pasto having shone for Llaneros in prior seasons.
Ready to begin a new chapter in her career in Australia, Ibarguen has ambitions of making a name for herself at Ironbark Fields.
“I can’t wait to get started,” she said. “As a forward I like to score and create goals, so playing in a strong team also gives me the platform to contribute and play my best football.
“I am sure I will learn a lot here and it would be a dream to win a trophy for the club.
“The facilities look great and building a connection with the fans is very important. I can’t wait to score my first goal at Ironbark Fields for Western.”
League commitments.
With the few absences early on, Clayton said they were focused on trying to stay at least at 50 per cent win rate for the first five to six rounds as the group to settles in.
“Two years ago we finished second bottom,” he said. “Last season we missed out on finals by 0.2 per cent.
“We are hoping to be around the mark again. Hopefully we’ll get everyone back after Christmas and hopefully we’ll be at our best for the business end of the season.”
This season the top flight will stay as one division instead of splitting midway through. Each team will play each other twice before a knock out series where the final two teams are left.
Clayton said Baseball Victoria was trying to match up to the American college system. Off field things are going well for the Eagles with their new ball pen just finished and work underway on their hitting tunnel.
Sunshine is at home in round two this Saturday against Essendon.
Western United coach Kat Smith is eager for Ibarguen to put the league on notice this season.
“Sandra has that x-factor as a striker that will get our fans on their feet and I am incredibly excited to see her working together with the rest of the team,” she said.
“We want to play entertaining and dynamic football at Ironbark Fields this season and Sandra will be a big part of the attacking football that we wish to play.
“Her qualities as a person have been extremely impressive and I am looking forward to her joining the group and showing her quality in the Ninja A-League this season.”
The Colombian has arrived in Tarneit and will join pre-season training as the side continues to work towards the season opener on November 1.
Tara Murray Max Weise. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Allister Lovelock. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
