Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 15th October 2024

Lost items ‘irreplaceable’

By Laura Michell

Abreak-inatPaulaChavez’sWeirViewshome

earlier this month has impacted her business and left her without precious items gifted to her by her deceased brother and parents.

Ms Chavez was out with her dogs on Thursday, October 3, when unknown offenders broke into her home via a sliding door.

Once inside, they took two safes containing gemstones and many sentimental pieces, including presents from her brother who was murdered in Los Angeles 45 years ago at the age of 19.

Among the precious pieces that were stolen were “irreplaceable” letters and photos of her brother, items he made in schools, a pair of pearl earrings he gave her, family heirlooms, and gifts from her parents.

Thankfully a beautiful amber necklace that hadbelongedtohermotherwasoverlookedby the thieves.

The safes also contained a collection of gemstones collected by Ms Chavez over a number of years for her work as a jewellery maker.

They also took $15,000 worth of gold as well as sapphires she had recently purchased to create jewellery with, and a collection of jewellery she had been working on to sell ahead of Christmas.

“They took all the jewellery they could find. I was getting ready to put up stuff [on my website] for Christmas. They were my new lines I was feverishly working on,” Ms Chavez said.

“I’d made a beautiful chain that cost $2500 ingoldandsomanyhours,butthatwasstolen.

“This was my business. This was my everything. This was my identity.

“I don’t know how I’d feel about making jewellery if I never see my stolen collections again.”

Ms Chavez said prior to the break-in, she believed she had taken all the necessary steps to secure her home, including ensuring she doesn’t leave her windows unlocked.

But now, she is annoyed with herself for not securing the sliding door and can’t shake the feeling that she left herself open to becoming a

the thieves to offload them.

“I have really weird gems, none of them individually are very valuable. They wouldn’t even know what it is,” she said.

Ms Chavez, who moved to Weir Views nine months ago from the New South Wales

Central Coast, hopes her experience will alert her neighbours to the incident and encourage others to secure their homes.

“Upuntilnow,Ihavebeenquitehappyliving here,” she said.

Police are continuing to investigate the theft.

(Ljubica Vrankovic) 436244_01

Milestone for Taskforce Lunar

More than 80 arrests and 200 search warrants have been executed in the first 12 months of Taskforce Lunar.

Established in October 2023, Taskforce Lunar targets organised crime syndicates and their involvement in the illicit tobacco trade in Victoria.

Whilst illicit tobacco doesn’t generally sit withinstatelawenforcementresponsibility,the increased prevalence of serious and organised crime, including arson, extortion and firearms related violence necessitates it being a top priority for Victoria Police.

Since October 2023, there have been 105 arson attacks at, or linked to, tobacco stores around the state.

Detectives believe that most of the stores targeted sell illicit tobacco and vapes.

Since its inception the taskforce has arrested 82 people, many of these offenders have been charged with serious offences including extortion, arson, firearms offences and aggravated burglary. Among those charged is a 17-year-oldDeansidewaschargedinrelationto two fires at tobacco stores in Glenroy.

More than 200 search warrants have been executed on tobacco stores around Victoria, suspected of selling illicit tobacco and vapes.

Thesewarrantshaveresultedintheseizureof cash, illicit tobacco and vapes with a total value in excess of $37 million, as well 19 firearms, including seven handguns.

Properties in Sydenham and Melton South were searched in July as part of the taskforce.

Police seized 200 kilograms of illicit tobacco, five firearms and shotgun rounds that were improperly stored, documentation relating to the manufacture of illicit tobacco and keys believed to be for illicit tobacco farms at a property in Sydenham.

About 900 kilograms of illicit tobacco and a small quantity of cash were located at another Sydenham property.

Whilst the majority of these fires have resultedinnoinjuries,theyareoftentargetedto shops in residential areas or part of residential buildings.

Investigators want anyone, especially store

Garden show will be bloomin’ great

Spring is in the air and roses are blooming just in time for the Bacchus Marsh Flower and Garden Show.

Held on the last weekend of October, the show has plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained.

Show president Kathy Cairns said organisers were looking forward to seeing what everyone was entering.

“With Covid, it’s our ninth year,” she said. “The first year out of Covid is was a bit down, but last year it really improved.

“Hopefully this year is a bit better again.” The show includes roses and flowers,

cake baking competitions, a plant stall and photography among other things.

Ms Cairns said the roses were the most popular thing people were interested in checking out.

“They are a little bit weather dependent,” she said. “If we don’t get the rain, the roses don’t come out.

“Everyone seems to love the roses.”

The show has a large junior section with the committee handing out forms to all the local schools.

This year they have a new section for the local children.

“We have a colouring competition this year,” Ms Cairns said. “We’re going to put them up on display.

“That is our new big thing.”

There will be plenty of food options available including the local Country Women’s Association’s Devonshire afternoon tea.

There will be stands with the historical society, Darley Neighbourhood House and the Melton Botanic Gardens among them.

There’s also children’s activities.

The show is on October 26, between noon-4pm, and October 27, 10am-4pm.

Details: wwwbmflowershow.org

owners and staff, who have information about these incidents to come forward.

Crime Command Detective Superintendent JasonKellysaidorganisedcrimesyndicatesand their serious and organised crime offending, linked to the infiltration of the tobacco industry, remains a top priority of police.

“Over the last year we have seen a significant amount of work done by our Lunar Taskforce detectives and intelligence practitioners to identify these networks, disrupt their criminal activities and make a high number of arrests and seizures,“ he said. “However, as arson attacks continue, both in Victoria and interstate, we remain concerned over the safety of the broader community.”

Preparing for the fire season

Moorabool council is making sure its staff are prepared for the upcoming fire season.

The council is running an in-house emergency management exercise on October 31.

Exercise Burndawan is to give staff an opportunity to practice the opening and operation of emergency relief centres, including a centre that will house animals, and performing secondary impact assessments to assist the community during relief and recovery from an emergency within the shire. The exercise will allow staff to test the council’s capability, capacity and preparedness in the event of a fire in the upcoming fire season or for a future storm or flood event which may occur.

Chief executive Derek Madden said there are so many variables and things happenandchangeatarapidpaceduring an emergency, so training sessions such as this are vital.

“With the dryer than normal winter months,itisevenmoreimportantforour staff to be aware of their roles to support our communities if an emergency occurs in our area.”

To achieve these objectives, council officers from a wide range of service areas will be in the Ballan and Dales Creek areas to complete the scenario. Key emergency service agencies that have a role in emergency relief centres will be in attendance and neighbouring council emergency management staff will undertaking observations to ensure learnings and improvements can be documented

Kathy Cairns. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Partnership to help young people

Charity Western Chances will be able to provide more young people with scholarships, thanks to a grant from Melbourne Airport.

The airport signed a five-year partnership WesternChances,providingitwith$875,000to providescholarships,employmentopportunity programs and ongoing support to hundreds of young people in Melbourne’s west.

Melbourne Airport also signed a five-year partnership with with Banksia Gardens, providingmorethan$600,000 tosupportearly childhood education and training.

Western Chances founding chair Terry Bracks welcomed the extension of the partnership with Melbourne Airport.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to extend our partnership with Melbourne Airport for another five years, building on a remarkable 15-year history of breaking down barriers and supporting young people in Melbourne’s west,” she said. “Their continued support will fund 650 scholarships, along with our Dream Big Awards, providing life-changing opportunities for our talented young people to thrive and achieve their potential.”

Melbourne Airport chief executive Lorie Argus said the airport is proud to support local charities that make a tangible difference to the lives of so many families.

“The work Western Chances and Banksia

Gardens do for communities in the north and west of the city is invaluable, and we are proud toplayasmallroleinsupportingthat,”shesaid.

“We have two Western Chances scholarship recipients working at the airport whose careers wouldn’t have been possible without the support given to them by the charity.

“Melbourne Airport is the largest employer in the local area, and we recognise the importance of establishing pathways and providing education to give people the skills they need to kick start their careers.”

Melbourne Airport also announced the recipients of the 2024 Community Grants program, which provides $10,000 each to

Theatre company

The newly re-formed Bacchus Marsh Theatre Company is back with a vengeance, with a live music event for the whole family.

The company has been staging shows in Bacchus Marsh for 20-plus years, but hadn’t put on a show since before covid.

But with a new-name and look, the theatre company is putting on two performances of Enough: Just The Way You Are on October 27.

Show director Mai Pyin said the theme of the performance was about being fully yourself and acceptance in the family and the community.

back with a bang

The showcase the talents of local singers and musicians with music ranging from pop to rock and musical theatre.

“With soloists and a full vocal ensemble providing amazing harmonies, all backed by a live band of professional musicians and spectacular light show, this is an event not to be missed,” she said.

Pyin said the reaction to getting the theatre back up and going had been really good. She said it was something the local community needed.

“There was a lot of interest when I put out

the call,” she said. “It’s a lot of the same people.

“It was evident to me at the first rehearsal when people were coming in and squealing ’how are you?’ that people wanted this.

“It’s not just an outlet for creativity, we’ve put together a performance network which the community has found.

The two shows will be held at 11am and 5pm on October 27 at the Impresario Theatre, Bacchus Marsh.

Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/3t3ayv5b

Tara Murray

communitycentresandneighbourhoodhouses within 20 kilometres of the airport. Ten neighbourhood houses received grants this year. Among the recipients was Hillside Community Centre and Neighbourhood House which received funding for its industry pathways project, Duke Street Community House which will use the funding for its empowering migrant women through volunteering program, West Footscray Neighbourhood House which will use the funding for its Wee Folk Weekend Playgroup and Williamstown Community and Education Centre which will use the funding for its Spotswood rejuvenation project.

The state government has announced the next round of the Get Active Kids Voucher Program, with $200 sport vouchers on offer for eligible families.

In an announcement on Monday, October 7, premier Jacinta Allan and Community Sport Minister Ros Spence announced the program, which aims to promote children to join a local sports club or try a new activity.

Families who hold health care cards or other concession cards can apply for vouchers of up to $200 per child to help cover the costs of sports memberships, registration fees, uniforms, and equipment.

Community Sport Minister Ros Spence said that about 150,000 vouchers have been claimed through previous rounds of the program.

“These vouchers are a win for healthy habits, a win for communities, and a win for the huge number of kids who would otherwise not be able to participate,” Ms Spence said.

Premier Jacinta Allan said that the program aims to assist busy families by making sure every child can get active this summer.

“Whether they like basketball or ballet, every kid deserves to have a go at the sport they love,” Ms Allan said.

The program is open to children aged up to 18 who are named on a Commonwealth Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card, and named on a Medicare Card.

Special consideration is also available to support children in care, temporary or provisional visa holders, migrants and international students.

Families can apply for the vouchers online before redeeming them at an activity provider such as a local sporting club.

Pedestrians, cyclists warned as swooping season dives in

Swooping season is rife in the west, with a number of hotspots and swooping points revealed.

Keilor Park Drive has had multiple recent sightings of swooping birds, and one resident reported losing their ear phone after being swooped by a magpie.

Sunshine West has also been an area of concern, with three magpie attacks reported near Glengala Road this spring.

Boyle Terrace Corner in Burnside has also had multiple reported sightings and swoopings in recent weeks.

WildlifeVictoriahasprovidedarangeoftips tohelpprotectyourselfagainstswoopingbirds.

First, it’s important to know your local swooping hotspots. Stay informed about areas like parks, schoolyards, and bike trails that are known for swooping birds.

If you can, avoid these areas altogether. The most effective way to protect yourself is simply to steer clear of places where birds are known to swoop. However, if you must pass through, move calmly and quickly, as running may trigger an aggressive response.

Wearing a hat or carrying an umbrella or stick to hold above your head can help protect you.

For cyclists, wearing a helmet is essential, and it’s advisable to dismount and walk

through swooping zones.

You might also consider drawing a pair of ‘eyes’ and attaching it to the back of your hat or helmet. Birds may be less likely to swoop if they feel watched.

Remember, do not harass wildlife by throwing stones or interfering with birds, as this can escalate their defensive behavior.

It’s also crucial not to destroy nests. Disturbing nests can lead birds to rebuild, prolonging the swooping behavior.

Additionally, avoid feeding swooping birds, as this can encourage them to become more aggressive.

Whenever possible, travel in a group. There’s

safety in numbers, and this can reduce the likelihood of attacks.

Lastly, consider putting up warning signs to alert others about swooping birds in the area, or ask your local council to provide these notifications.

Swooping birds are a natural occurrence in both urban and rural areas, including parks, gardens,bikepaths,andschoolyards,especially where birds are nesting.

More information and full swooping map: wildlife.vic.gov.au/managing-wildlife/ swooping-birds

Gerald Lynch

Director Mai Pyin. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 436229_01

Call to preserve old inn

By Afraa Kori

The Bacchus Marsh and District Historical Society is calling for the future owners of the town’s Border Inn to ensure the building’s history is preserved.

The historic hotel will be auctioned on Friday, October 18, at noon.

Historical society member Pat Burchat said she and several other members were concerned about the Border Inn’s future.

“We are worried for its future, that the council will be more inclined to think of the monetary benefits, rather than the historical benefits or that they allow the building to be replaced,” she said.

“The problem is that the town has already lost some significant sites to demolition in the past 40 years, which has already impacted the town,makingitmoreofasuburbanfeelrather than an historic town.

“We would like to see the hotel preserved to its former glory with the historical charm and old English style it once held. It will take the new owners time and money to achieve this, so we are hoping the purchase is by the right people. It would be good to see the public at the auction and if there are any concerns they could be there.”

Mrs Burchat said the two-storey building was built in 1850 by John Pilmer.

It was through the first lessee, James Watt, the Cobb & Co Coach service was established, the first such service in Victoria, which ran from Melbourne, through Bacchus Marsh to Ballarat.

Mrs Burchat said the hotel is a pioneering pre-gold rush building and also hosted the first meeting of the Bacchus Marsh Road Board in 1856 and the inauguration of the Ivy Lodge of Tree Gardeners in 1851.

“Thesignificanceofthebuildingissuchthat

it is on the Victorian Heritage Database and has an heritage overlay. Given this protection it is hoped that the building will retain its historical perspective,“ she said.

“Over its 174-year history there have been changes of owners and additions made. It is believed the 1850 section still survives. We are hoping the public will show their support of this significant building.“

First National Rayner Real Estate director Marcus Rayner said the hotel’s heritage would be respected in the sale process.

“We’re obviously drawing people’s attention to the fact that it is an historically-listed building and there are limits to what you can do with it,“ he said.

“The vast majority of the inquiry that we have and in fact everybody that I know that’s inquired about it isn’t looking at it for anything more than to open it up as to what it already was. So, I don’t have much fear and the

Doing some important training. (Supplied)

current owner has been good about this, like he’s also not trying to fleece anybody here.“

Mr Rayner said they’re looking for someone with pub experience to reopen the hotel, which will benefit the community.

“We only have four pubs in Bacchus Marsh, so this one being closed means we’re down to three. So, there’s been strong interest and we’re hoping to sell for around $2.5 million.

“Wedon’thaveanadultoranupmarketwine bartypesituation.There’smoreofarestaurant type pub and the town desperately needs just somewhere to go and drink. The town also needs some reasonable accommodation to be able to put more skilled workers or people that come in under contract for a short-term stay. With the housing crisis and the lack of rentals, there’s just nothing at the moment. This pub is big and is good for accommodation, so we need it for transient workers that come to town.”

Paramedics urge asthma plan update

With spring in full swing and warmer weather expected soon, paramedics are reminding asthma sufferers to update their action plans to stay safe.

Asthma can affect people of all ages and, if unmanaged, can develop into a serious health concern.

Ambulance Victoria emergency management director Justin Dunlop said creating an asthma action plan is an easy and potentially lifesaving step.

“It’s simple – visit your GP and they can create a plan with you,” he said.

“Everyone’s asthma action plan will look different, and it will help you manage your condition, ensuring you don’t find yourself in an emergency.”

Adults should update their asthma action plan yearly, while every six months is recommended for children.

Hay fever sufferers who have also experienced asthma symptoms such as wheezing, breathlessness, shortness of breath, coughing and chest tightness, are also being encouraged to visit their GP.

Mr Dunlop said taking preventative action will make a real difference for our busy paramedics.

“Follow your asthma action plan, and most importantly, if a person is having difficulty breathing and their reliever medicine is not working, don’t delay in calling triple-0,” he said.

Training at a stretch

Three young giraffes at Werribee Open Range Zoo are completing some important training in a fun way.

Jesse, Wayo and David are learning how to touch their noses to a target, in an effort to ensure they will be comfortable during routine medical checks and procedures that require them to be awake.

To familiarise them with participating in proactive healthcare, they are encouraged to voluntarily enter a training area where one keeperrewardsthemwithacarrotfortouching their nose to a stick. A second keeper can then start getting them accustomed to important health care behaviours, such as touching their necks for a voluntary blood draw, holding still for dental x-rays, or even hoof care.

Zoo savannah keeper Alison Edwards

explained why some procedures must happen while the giraffes are awake.

“You can imagine that anaesthetising a huge giraffe would be quite a feat, so this training is to get them comfortable with keepers being close so we can do a stress-free blood draw while they’re awake.”

Eachunderthreeyearsofage,theyhavebeen described as playful yet fast learners.

“David is obsessed with food so he’s motivated by the treats, Wayo is shy so he’s a little more hesitant, and Jesse is like the excitable kid in class so he’s always keen to be part of the action.” Ms Edwards said.

The youngsters, who arrived at the zoo last October, also learn from the older giraffes and give them a run for their money out on the savannah.

That’s because it’s our job to get injured people large lump sum settlements from the TAC or WorkSafe in the form of damages for pain and suffering and economic loss.

We can’t fix your injuries, but we can help to relieve the financial burden and stress of being injured and of having your lifestyle and earning capacity greatly altered.

“No-Win-No-Fee” offered.

The Border Inn will be auctioned on October 18. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 436599_03

fighting fatigue,

Working 17 continuous hours causes impairment equivalent to .05 blood alcohol concentration level.

Working long, multiple days in a row by yourself can be part of the job but consider the cost to you and your family.

Check in with yourself and others around you.

Know the signs of fatigue, visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/farmfatigue

It’s never you, until it is.

Raising funds for a special cause

As the Daniher Drive came to Darley on Thursday there was a mix of emotions.

There was a lot of excitement as the drive, which included nearly 60 cars set off, on a four-day trip.

Darley Park was the first stop on the drive which aims to raise money and awareness in the fight against motor neurone disease (MND).

The Darley and Bacchus Marsh community got behind the cause with a barbecue and plenty of activities for children.

For the Daniher family, which has been behindthisandtheBigFreeze,it’salsoachance to spend time together as a family.

Ben Daniher, the son of former AFL player and coach Neale Daniher who is fighting the ‘beast’ said it was incredibly touching to see the support they had received.

“Sometimes when you’re in the thick of it, you sort of don’t realise how special it is,” he said.

“After these events, the Big Freeze and the driveandyourealisehowincrediblethesupport is, not only from the friends and family, just people across Victoria and Australia,

“People raise money all year to come on the drive,thetownsthatwevisit.Weareincredibly humbled and touched by the support, we know that without this support that we wouldn’t be able to raise as much money as we do, would not be able to put as much money in research and care.”

Daniher encouraged anyone who couldn’t be on the drive and wanted to donate, to do so.

Details: https://support.fightmnd.org.au/ dd-giving-day

Reducing nappy stress

A group of Melbourne mums were faced with a decision on what to do with unused nappies that no longer fitted their children.

In most instances, parents would throw away the nappies and not give it a second thought, however, these mums decided to gather similar donations from other parents and distribute those nappies to families in need.

To create an outlet for people to find them, they launched a Facebook group in October 2013, as a place for families to distribute nappies.

Altona North’s Pelvic Health Melbourne has become one of the west’s largest collection points for the collective.

Pelvic Health Melbourne’s Kylie Conway said she saw a post about the Nappy Collective on Facebook in 2017 and felt inspired to get involved.

Ms Conway is now trying to spread the issue on how dangerous ‘nappy stress’ is not only for babies but for the family as well.

“Nappy stress describes the experience of families who do not have enough nappies to change their children as often as needed, some 280,000 children under five years of age across Australia are estimated to suffer nappy stress each year,

“This can cause skin and urinary infections, difficultyaccessingchildcare,andpoormental health for parents who experience financial and emotional distress as a result of being forced to keep a child in unclean nappies.

“With costs of living soaring and more familiesexperiencingsocialdisadvantagethan ever before, there is an urgent need to provide nappies for families with low incomes, at risk of homelessness, escaping domestic violence, seeking asylum, or at the conclusion of court proceedings when children are unexpectedly returned home.

Melton City Council postal election

Check the mail for your ballot pack

Ballot packs containing voting material were mailed to enrolled voters from Monday 7 October.

This is a postal election only.

If you do not receive your ballot pack by Tuesday 15 October please visit vec.vic.gov.au to complete the online replacement form, or call 131 832 to arrange a replacement.

Candidates

Candidates who have nominated for election are listed in the ballot packs and at vec.vic.gov.au

A photo and candidate statement will also be included if provided by candidates. Responses to a candidate questionnaire, if provided, are available at vec.vic.gov.au

How to vote correctly

You must complete your ballot paper correctly for your vote to count. Put the number 1 in the box next to the candidate you want to see elected, then number all the other boxes in order of your choice. You must number every box and only use each number once.

How to return your ballot pack

Put your completed ballot paper in the ballot paper envelope, complete the declaration, then post it ASAP using the reply-paid envelope provided, or hand deliver it during election office hours to: 16 - 18 Palmerston Street

Melton

Voting is compulsory

Voting is compulsory for all voters who were enrolled at 4 pm on Wednesday 7 August. This includes state-enrolled and council-enrolled voters.

If you don’t vote and don’t have a valid excuse, you may be fined.

Your completed ballot pack must be in the mail or hand delivered by 6 pm Friday 25 October. State-enrolled voters can register for free VoterAlert SMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au

“Notonlydoesnappystressimpactchildren, but it also takes a significant toll on parents who are often forced to choose between essentialslikenappiesandfoodforthemselves to help stretch their limited funds.”

Details: https://www.thenappycollective. com/where-to-donate-nappies

“Families in need of nappies are often escaping domestic violence, facing homelessness,experiencingfinancialhardship or seeking refuge.

Daniher family: Chris, Jan, Ben, Lauren, Rebecca and Terry. (Pictures: Ljubica Vrankovic) 435381

Left: The event included a hat design competition. Right: A massive crowd turned out to welcome the drive to Darley.

Marko Kmecko and Shaun Noonan.

Above: The Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh provided a barbecue. Below: There were plenty of activities to entertain the crowd.

Nappy Collective volunteer Kylie Conway (left) delivering donated nappies to a community partner. (Supplied)

Time to talk about menopause

By Gerald Lynch

As World Menopause Day approaches on October 18, it’s crucial to shed light on the often-misunderstood transition that many women face.

Western Health women’s health specialist Dr Aetka Neel said there are several misconceptions about menopause.

She said that one major misunderstanding is thatsymptomscanonlyoccuraftermenopause is officially diagnosed.

In Australia, the average age of menopause is 51, but symptoms can start much earlier –typically five to 10 years prior.

“Menopause is defined as 12 months without a period,” Dr Neel said.

“However, many women experience a range of symptoms long before that.”

Another common myth is the belief that hot flushes are the predominant symptom of menopause.

While about 70 to 80 per cent of women do experience them, Dr Neel emphasised that symptoms like joint pain, sleep disturbances, and mood swings are also prevalent.

“It’s not just about hot flushes and night sweats,” she said.

Additionally, many women mistakenly think a blood test is necessary to diagnose menopause.

“That’s absolutely not true,” Dr Neel said.

“Menopause is diagnosed based on symptomsandtheindividual’smenstrualcycle

history, excluding other conditions.”

She also highlighted the misconceptions surrounding treatment, with some women led to believe that nothing can be done to alleviate symptoms.

“There are various treatments available, including lifestyle changes, complementary therapies, and medications,” she said.

“On the other hand, it’s also false to think there’s a one-size-fits-all solution; each woman’s experience is unique.”

For women currently in their 40s, Dr Neel offered several strategies to help prepare for menopause.

“It’s never too early to start,” she said.

“Lifestyle changes are really important. A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, limiting refined carbs, and regular exercise are essential.”

She emphasised both cardiovascular activities for heart health and weight-bearing exercises to support bone density.

Dr Neel also highlighted the benefits of mindfulness,whichhasbeenshowntoalleviate

Join us for an online project update on the Diggers Rest level crossing removal projects.

We’re removing the level crossings at Old Calder Highway and Watsons Road, Diggers Rest in 2025.

Join the project team for an online update to learn more about construction progress, future works, changes to the way you travel around the area and how you can stay up to date with the project.

Everyone is welcome. Registration required.

When Wednesday 23 October, 6.30pm – 7.30pm

Where

Online via Zoom (registered attendees will receive a link)

Register Scan the QR code or visit trybooking.com.au/ CWBZZ by 6.30pm Tuesday 22 Oct.

various menopausal symptoms.

“Practising mindfulness can help with hot flushes, mood changes, and irritability,” she said.

Educating oneself about menopause is also crucial.

Dr Neel advised women to seek out reliable resources to understand what to expect.

“Studies have shown that women who are informed and view menopause as a positive transitiontendtoexperiencefewersymptoms,” she said .

Dr Neel said common topic of discussion is hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

She said many women benefit from HRT, which can be prescribed by GPs or menopause specialists.

“HRT is effective in managing hot flushes, night sweats, and even mood symptoms,” she said.

She emphasised the importance of understanding the risks associated with HRT, particularly in light of past studies that raised concerns about breast cancer.

“Those studies were flawed, focusing on older women.”

“We now know that if women start HRT around the time of menopause and are under 60, the absolute risk is low, especially when used for less than five years.”

Dr Neel also detailed how HRT is administered, explaining that women with a uterus need both estrogen and progesterone, while those without a uterus can take estrogen alone.

“There are various methods of delivery, with transdermal options often being safer,” she added.

It’s estimated that about 20 per cent of women undergoing menopause opt for hormone therapy.

Mentalhealthisanothercriticalaspectofthe menopause experience.

Dr Neel noted that mood swings and emotional changes are common during this transition.

“Psychotherapy, counselling, and talk therapy can be incredibly beneficial,” she said.

“There’s still a stigma around seeking help, but these therapies are effective.”

For women juggling family responsibilities and feeling isolated during menopause, Dr Neel’s advice is simple: talk about it.

“Eighty per cent of women experience symptoms during menopause, so discussing it with friends or other women can help reduce feelings of isolation,” she said.

She also noted the rise of online menopause support groups, which provide a platform for women to share their experiences and seek advice.

“It’s crucial that we normalise conversations around menopause,” Dr Neel said.

“With approximately half the population being female, it’s a shared experience that we need to discuss more openly.”

Increased menopause awareness vital: Inquiry

A senate inquiry into menopause and perimenopausehasmade25recommendations to the federal government to better support women to manage their symptoms.

Among the recommendations were calls for an awareness campaign, flexible working conditions for women experiencing menopause and reviews of treatment costs.

The Senate Community Affairs References Committee conducted the inquiry to examine the economic consequences of menopause and perimenopause, their physical health impacts, the mental and emotional wellbeing of people experiencing menopause and perimenopause and the impact on caregiving responsibilities.

The inquiry also considered medical professionals’ awareness of menopause and perimenopause symptoms and treatments and cultural and societal factors influencing perceptions and attitudes.

It conducted seven hearings during the year-long inquiry.

“Duringtheinquiry,thecommitteelistened to the stories of hundreds of women, heard from academics, clinicians, businesses, public health bodies and government departments. The evidence told a compelling story that in Australia, women do not always receive adequate support to manage their symptoms, both in the health system and in their workplaces,” the committee’s report stated.

“The experiences women shared with the committee indicate that for some women, menopause has had a significant impact on their career, ability to work and income. It points to the importance of developing a more robust evaluation of these issues to inform the development of policies to support women in the workplace.”

HER Centre Australia research fellow and research manager, Dr Eveline Mu welcomed the recommendations.

“I ... am pleased that menopause and perimenopause are finally receiving the attention they deserve”“ she said.

“Wearehopefulthattheserecommendations will not only address the physical symptoms, but will also shed much-needed light on the mental health impacts of menopause, which have been overlooked for far too long.

“With this increased recognition, we also hope to see more funding dedicated toward research on the mental health aspects of menopause, and particularly the impact of brain sex hormone shifts and the pursuit of novel treatments to target the underlying neurobiology.”

Dr Aekta Neel.

(Ljubica Vrankovic) 436103_04

Construction underway for the eastern bridge retaining wall at Old Calder Highway, Diggers Rest.

Baking in new west jobs

Job opportunities in Ravenhall continue to grow as Allied Pinnacle prepares to open its new purpose-built Victorian facility.

Now that construction has concluded and the doors are just weeks from opening, the leadingflourandbakerymanufacturermarked the occasion with a ceremonial cherry blossom planting and ribbon cutting.

The Ravenhall Distribution Centre, now Allied Pinnacle’s largest footprint nationwide, will play a key role in distributing flour and bakery goods, servicing several Australian states and territories including Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania.

The site officially opens on Monday, November 18, offering a range of jobs across logistics, warehousing and administration, while also supporting local suppliers and service providers.

Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch said “It’s fantastic to see Allied Pinnacle making such a significant contribution to the local community.”

“The Ravenhall Distribution Centre will provide valuable jobs and opportunities, helping to boost the region’s economy. I commend Allied Pinnacle for its commitment to innovation and sustainability and I’m proud to see Victoria play such a central role in Australia’s food manufacturing industry.”

Allied Pinnacle chief executive David Pitt said the opening was the start of an exciting chapter.

“This facility not only strengthens our ability to serve customers across multiple states but also reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality products,” he said.

“We’re proud to contribute to the local economy and look forward to creating more opportunities for growth in the region.”

The distribution centre features a test kitchen for customers, integrated fit out, corporate office, and integrated sustainability measures.

Briefs

Ballot packs in the mail Voters should check the mail for their council election ballot packs. Electoral commissioner Sven Bluemmel encouraged people to vote as early as possible.

“This election is postal, so it’s important to complete and return your ballot material as soon as possible to make sure your vote counts,” Mr Bluemmel said. Candidates who have nominated for the election are listed in the ballot packs and on the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) website at vec.vic.gov.au. Voting is compulsory for all voters who were enrolled for this election at 4 pm Wednesday, August 7. Voters who don’t vote may be fined.

Keeping kids safe online

The state government is launching community consultation on age limits for social media, with the findings set to shape a new social media education program. The online survey gives parents, teachers and young people the opportunity to share their experiences and concerns about social media use. Findings will shape a new social media safety program – Safe Socials. The program will be delivered in schools as a resource for students, teachers and families about how to live with social media. The survey at engage.vic. gov.au/safesocials will be open until November 1.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au

Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Flour Alliance chief executive David Pitt, Takao Yamada, and Yu Nagaki at the Ravenhall centre.

Cricket, an opportunity to grow

By Tara Murray

Among the players preparing for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association season are seven players who have come out from Vanuatu.

While several Vanuatu players have come out before and played in several different competitions, there hasn’t been as many in one go.

With different managers and contacts sometimes those opportunities have dried up after a couple of seasons.

Vanuatu high performance manager and nationalcoachChrisLaffansaidhewaskeento those connections back up and going.

Hesaiditwasanexcitingopportunityforthe players to come out to Australia and play.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to get as much experience as possible,” he said. “It’s a different environment to ply their trade in.

“We’ve got seven playing in the VTCA and two others in some other competitions, including one in the women’s premier competition.

“It’ssomethingthatI’mreallyexcitedabout.”

Laffan said one of the biggest challenges was getting the opportunities for the players.

Manyplayerslooktodoseasonalworkatthis time of year so they have to find viable options so the players are willing to come across.

“We put the opportunity in front of the players and they take everything up,” he said. “We had to put something conceivable that stacks up against seasonal work.

“It’s good to give them a chance and to get nineplayersouthereandIcouldn’tbehappier.”

Laffan used some of his contacts in the VTCA to help find players a home. Laffan previously played and coached at Craigieburn. He said Kane Twentyman, whose company Ferox supplies the players with a lot of equipment, had been really good using his

contacts as well.

Laffan said the VTCA was keen to make it work as well.

“We are thankful for the VTCA and Zoran Havranek for their commitment to the improvement of cricket in the Pacific and support of our players developing in the VTCA,” he said.

Joshua Rasu will play at Craigieburn, Nalin Nipiko and Williamsing Nalisa will play at (DouttaStars,SimpsonObed atWestNewport,

Laffan said but luck it worked out that the players were spread across different grades.

It gives the players a range of opportunities and also gives more cricketers the opportunity to play against cricketers from Vanuatu.

Many of the players haven’t played much red ball cricket before.

‘Gives massive experience we want this, they want it to happen year on year,” Laffan said.

“The talent is there. The island of Port Vila is not too different to the population of Craigieburn and they have the opportunity to play national cricket.”

Laffan, who just happens to be back in Australia at the moment, said the players had taken ownership of their journeys as well and they were excited to experience club land.

“Thistripisaboutgivingthemtheexperience and me being here and being able to work with them as well, put in good space going forward.”

Steve Sandy at Gellibrand and Darren and Womajo Wotu at Footscray Angliss.

Darren and Womajo Wotu. (Supplied)

Silver screen societies play on

In the age of streaming, film societies continue to bring together movie lovers keen to share their appreciation of the silver screen. Oscar Parry explores the appeal of film societies.

Film societies unite members to enjoy cinema in a social environment, promoting a sense of community and a shared appreciation of the medium.

One of them is the Macedon Ranges Film Society, with an active base of members who meet each month to watch and discuss a feature-length film at a hall in Woodend.

Society president Christine Caley said the appealofthesocietyextendsbeyondthescreen.

“We feel that the members who come for a film night, they come for two reasons: to see the film and to be involved in a group … the communication and friendship is equally as important as the film,” Ms Caley said.

“They get supper and they can have a glass of wine. It’s very convivial. In a lot of ways, it’s not at all like a cinema [where] you go and see a film with a bunch of strangers and then you walk out and that’s that. This is something else entirely, it’s a social networking [event] as much as watching a film,” she said.

Beginning as a small group about 15 years ago, Ms Caley said that the first meetings were “ad-hoc,” where films were screened at the Woodend Community Centre, before relocatingtoaroomatthebackoftheWoodend Library.

“Overthattime,weacquiredourequipment. Part of our membership fees go towards that equipment fund, so now we own all our own equipment … all our equipment is 4K. We’re always looking to give back to our members,” she said.

The society now meets at the Norma Richardson Hall, which contains a drop-down cinema screen.

The group’s committee meets towards the end of each year to select 11 films for the following year’s screenings.

Ms Caley said selecting films as a committee is a lengthy process, with considerations including film length, suitability, clarity, visual appeal, and audio quality.

“Every now and again, we’ll show a film that we’re not sure about and it will surprise us by being popular,” she said.

“It’s quite like a book club … in that they comealongtoseefilmstheyhaven’tseenbefore and are often pleasantly surprised.”

The selection process is also informed by feedback collected from members through a token rating system, where viewers rate films out of five at the end of each film.

Since its inception, membership of the film society has grown and remains active, Ms Carley said. “The members we have are very happywithit.Weneverfailtogetmostofthem there on a film night, even in the middle of a dreaded Woodend winter … I think that says a lot about it.”

She said the society is hosting its third short filmfestivalthisNovember,titledCoolClimate

Cinema, featuring 12 short films.

Federation of Victorian Film Societies president and Macedon Ranges Film Society vice president Henry Screen said film societies unite people in enjoying film as a “powerful” medium, with the venues designed to replicate a high-quality cinema experience.

“It’s a shared pleasure of what film can do in terms of storytelling, entertainment, and education … I’m often surprised how you can watch a film and come away having learnt … some historical facts you never knew before. And at the same time as that’s going on, you’ve been entertained,” Mr Screen said.

He said the Federation of Victorian Film Societies consists of 75 member societies, with most located in regional Victoria.

In terms of influence on the film industry, Mr Screen said film societies can help create awareness of independent and local filmmakers, with the federation also funding a scholarship for Deakin University film students.

With the rising popularity of streaming services,MrScreensaidthatsofar,theimpacts

on membership numbers and film society screening events have been minimal.

“One of the issues though with streaming … isthattherearesomanycompetitivestreaming services now that are hoovering up the rights to films, and most of them don’t want to give access to the rights … that is a downside … as far as we’re concerned,” he said.

Originating in France, film societies have a

rich history in Australia.

Film historian and former Federation of Victorian Film Societies member John Turner has been a member of multiple film societies over the past 70 years and said that DVDs and downloading has made public screenings easier to manage.

“There’s no running around with great cans of films any more like we used to, dashing to the airport on the night of the screening to try and get the film in time,” Mr Turner said.

“In the earlier days, the really keen film society people were all socially and politically motivated … the government and ASIO used to photograph people going into meetings,” he said. “These days, people join film societies because there’s so much stuff out there, both films and downloads, that they want to trust somebody to pick out the best for them … they just want to learn more about film.”

This year’s Macedon Ranges Film Society Cool Climate Cinema short film festival will be held on Saturday, November 23, from 4pm attheNormaRichardsonHall,Woodend,with tickets available online.

Macedon Ranges Film Society secretary Lorraine Rutherford and president Christine Caley at the Norma Richardson Hall. (Damjan Janevski) 281178_02

Attendees at Macedon Ranges Film Society’s Cool Climate Cinema short film festival in 2022. (Supplied)

Native flowers gaining popularity

I read recently about a Victorian flower farm called Ducks Landing Native Flower Farm that promoted the idea that native Australian flowers in season are an excellent choice for a bunch of flowers.

The flower farm is in Buninyong almost due south of Ballarat, about 11km away from the rural city. It is here at Ducks Landing Native Flower Farm that the magic of growing Australian natives happens. They encourage the philosophy of giving locally grown Australian native flowers rather than buying imported exotics.

Some people may decide that buying Australian natives is for them. Especially when you consider that the alternative might betobuynon-nativeflowersthathavetravelled from overseas or interstate to you. Not to mention, had umpteen chemicals sprayed on them before you receive them, to keep them fresh enough for you to be interested in buying them.

Now, to a Melbourne florist making it their goal to sell only Australian natives.

According to its website, the Bush Florist, an online delivery model, is “a passion project by the team from Azalea Flowers in South Melbourne who after years of stocking the largest range of Native Flowers in Melbourne thought it was time to let these beauties take centre stage”.

Bush sources rare and unique blooms of Australian natives from independent growers

around the country. They deliver flowers within metropolitan Melbourne.

To more on Australian natives. Who’s curious about what’s in flower right now within Melbourne and in the coming months

of spring? Who would like to know more about a particular Australian native or two?

The Austral Indigo tree or large shrub (Indigofera australis) is a plant belonging to the legume family that is in flower right

now. It will flower throughout spring. It is an evergreen flowering Australian native that grows up to two metres. The Austral Indigo tree is native to every state of Australia. So, of course, they grow well in Melbourne too. In fact, they grow in poor soils in almost any climate here in Australia.

The Austral Indigo tree has lovely pink or purple flowers that bring lots of beneficial insects into the garden. It’s probably best to enjoy the flowers on the tree as they lose their vibrancy quickly in a vase of water. The flowers will be on the tree from early to late spring as long as the air remains cool.

One of the smart things about this plant is that it helps nearby plants in the garden by increasing the nitrogen levels in the soil. One of the many smart things about Australian Aboriginalpeopleisthattheyusedthecrushed leaves of Austral Indigo to add them to water to kill or stun fish, like eels and Murray cod.

So, what native Australian flowers can people buy this spring? I’d recommend banksiasintheseearlydaysofspring.Theycan have beautiful flowers from autumn through to spring. This is when many banksia species will be covered in nectar rich flower spikes. Banksia ericifolia, a dwarf form of banksia, is an early flowering species that flowers from throughout three out of four seasons with attractive red flowers that transition into orange shades.

Maybe you’d like to be growing your own Australian natives to pick bunches of flowers from. Maybe you’re already growing them. Maybe you’d like to buy Australian native flowers for yourself or to gift them onto someone else. If you’re able to get out and about, see if you can spot some flowering Australian natives around Melbourne and beyondthisspring.GowellinyourAustralian native experimentations and appreciations.

Banksias look eye-catching in a native floral arrangement.

A child’s view of family violence

By Afraa Kori

A new documentary from western suburbs husband and wife team, Vincent Lamberti and Lisa Albert, is striving to shed light on the impact of family violence on children.

Revealed: KillJoy, now streaming on Stan, was directed by Lamberti and produced by Albert. It tells the story of a mother’s death, a community’s silence and a child’s journey to understand how the law allowed them to live with their father who killed their mother.

Lamberti said KillJoy offered the unique view of family violence from the perspective of a child.

“It privileges the point of view of the child in the story and that doesn’t get enough attention,” he said.

“It’s understood by organisations like Our Watch for example now, that the next big push in understanding family violence is to understanditfromthechild’sperspective.The child[KathrynJoy]inthiscaseisnowanadult of almost 40 years old, but Killjoy tells their story from the earliest age of consciousness that they had and how the story of their mother’s killing changed over time as they became older and understood more. There was so much that was kept from them and as theygleanedmoreandmoreinformation,that story grew, morphed and developed.”

The film also challenges the stereotypes and misconceptions society has about family violence.

“There’s a sense, even today amongst a significant section of the community that feel like ‘his crime in killing her was not as great because she was having an affair’ and I think Killjoy challenges that,” Lamberti said.

“It also challenges the blind belief we tend to have that the law will be uniform. The notion that the best thing to do for children is to protect them by not talking about it, I think the film really really challenges that.

“When we see people are suffering from family violence or any trauma, we don’t all

know how to deal with it. But we can offer a space where people are able to talk about it and feel acknowledged. You don’t have to fix it,that’swhattherapistsandsocialworkersare for.”

Lamberti said Killjoy offers men a powerful learning tool to understand the unique challenges women face.

“I learned a lot about gender issues through making the documentary and that’s something that I’m thankful for,” he said.

“There are things I don’t fully understand because I haven’t obviously experienced it, but I came to understand how women and girls can feel more insecurity and sense of danger in the world, than men.

“There are things men take for granted, like walking down a street at night. While I’ll be aware of any dangers but generally I don’t have to feel like that is a dangerous thing to do. I think a lot of women and girls do and that’s unacceptable.”

Lamberti said Killjoy has also resonated with many women, directly or indirectly affected by family violence.

“You rarely see older women getting an opportunity to speak. There’s been a number of people who said I just couldn’t believe what I was watching and it took me a day or two before I could message you or email you about it because it was just so emotionally affecting.

“I don’t think many people get through without crying. I wanted to give as much as I possibly could as a film can manage of Kathryn’s experience viscerally, to actually feel it emotionally and physically because it’s through emotional engagement that we change, that our brains and minds change.

“While it’s important to raise awareness on family violence, we want to inspire action. There’s a whole impact campaign that is being built on the back of this film. Kathryn is really passionate about establishing a peer group support network for people like themselves

‘‘ The film shows how trauma can ripple through an individual and a community and continue to be felt for many years. But it is also a film about hope and recovery and coming to terms with one’s past ’’

- Tristram Williams

who have been bereaved by domestic homicide.”

After watching Killjoy, Yarraville’s Tristram Williams said it changed the narrative that trauma is not the event but its distortion.

“In reflecting on my own life, it made me think of how fortunate I am! I think KillJoy’s power is in its beauty; the story is obviously one of tremendous pain and grief, but it is told in such a way that you are always drawn in. And its focus is always on the human, on Kathryn’s journey. The story is somehow universal despite its specific horror: the story of trauma and recovery,” he said.

“The film shows how trauma can ripple through an individual and a community and continue to be felt for many years. But it is also a film about hope and recovery and coming to terms with one’s past.”

To view the documentary go to https:// www.stan.com.au/watch/revealed-killjoy2024

Some of those involved in the documentary: Vincent Lamberti, Jill Brodie, Lisa Albert and Anna McGirr. (Anna McGirr)

Left: Stills from the filming of Revealing: Killjoy. Right: Vincent Lamberti with Kathryn Joy. (Tim O’Keefe)

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

Ladies probus

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

 Ann, 0425 705 150

Zonta club

Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. Meetings include guest speakers.

 Janet, 0421 080 923, or info@zontaclubofmelton.org.au

Cookie dough fundraiser.

Get your Christmas baking organised with the Bacchus Marsh Country Women’s Association cookie dough fundraiser. Running from October 17-November 1 there are 10 flavours available for purchase.

 https://www.facebook.com/ helpingcountrywomen

First aid courses

CPR and First Aid courses are running at Melton South Community Centre on October 19 and November 30. Various courses available.

 9747 8576

Computer courses

Advance beyond the essentials with Melton South Community Centre’s eight-week Intermediate computers course. Using Windows 11 laptops and Microsoft Office 2022, discover how to store files, maintain your computer and much more. The course will run from October 24 to December 12, on Thursdays between 9.30am-noon.

 9747 8576.

Tax Help

In partnership with the Australian Tax Office, the Melton South Community Centre is offering free tax help from now until October 28. Forty five minute appointments are available to individuals wanting to complete their 2023-24 tax return. Eligibility criteria apply. Appointments on Monday afternoons only with Hindi-language assistance available.

 9747 8576

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

Rose carers of Maddingley Park

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

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

Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club

Meets on the first Thursday of every month from 10am to noon at the Avenue Bowling Club on 254 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh.

 Krystyna, bacchusmarshladiesprobus@ gmail.com

Lights of Wisdom

The Bahá’ís of Moorabool invite you to Lights of Wisdom, a tranquil space to share the insights from the great spiritual traditions of mankind. Sessions will be held at the Lerderderg Library, Bacchus Marsh,

This week’s photographer’s choice is of Western Bulldogs player Vaomua Laloifi supporting her teammates from the stand during open training. (Damjan Janevski) 435967_01

every first Friday of the month. Starting time: 7.30pm. Entry is free.

 mgilsant9@gmail.com

Cancer Support Group

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

 Grenville, 0412 741 865

Chatty Cafe Melton

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

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

Women’s Support Group

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

 https://ow.ly/QVwJ50Q5g42

Caroline Springs Rotary

The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings

in person or via Zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall from 7pm.

 rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

The Gap on Graham

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

 Val, 0414 769 605

Melton Men’s Group

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

 meltonmensgroup.home.blog

Take weight off naturally

Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Weight Off Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton,  Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739

Parkinson’s support group

The Melton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the second Thursday of the month, 10.30am-12.30pm, at Kurunjang

Community Centre, 33-35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. New members and carers are welcome.

 Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Bridge Club

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

 Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Melton Friendship Group

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

 0406 493 734

Melton South Knit & Natter

All are welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa.

 9747 8576

U3A Melton

U3A Melton offers among its activities a book group, Australian history and a gentle exercise class for those 55 and older who are retired or semi-retired who wish to stay mentally and physically active.

 0419 563 016

Students take on Shakespeare

Students at St. Mary’s Parish Primary School in Williamstown are out to prove that you can never be too young to tackle Shakespeare.

On Thursday, October 17, grade 5 and 6 students at St Mary’s will present a unique, modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet set within the familiar halls of their own school.

Guided by their teacher Daryl Marmion the students have spent 10 weeks immersing themselves in their characters, perfecting their lines, and preparing to bring this timeless story to life.

“Throughout the play, students will deliver

some of Shakespeare’s most famous lines with a contemporary twist,” said Mr Marmion.

“From Juliet’s heartfelt question, ‘What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet’, to Romeo’s passionate exclamation, ‘But, soft! What light through yonder window breaks?’ this production promises to capture the essence of the greatest love story of all time.”

The performance takes place at the school and seats are limited, so those interested in attending are encouraged to contact St Mary’s to reserve their ticket.

Mr Marmion said the performance was

not to be missed, with the students’ hard work, dedication, and creativity set to come together in a way that will both inspire and entertain.

He thanked those behind the scenes who have helped make the production possible.

“A special thank you to all students front and behind stage, Ms Gina for helping with props and staging and Ms Sal, Ms Karangelis and Ms Angelia for their support in taking classes during extra rehearsals.”

For more information, contact St. Mary’s Parish Primary School on 9397 7926 or email at: info@smwilliamstown.catholic.edu.au

Show gives artists a chance to shine

The Ballan District Artists Collective and The Ballan Arts Space have collaborated on a dual exhibition featuring a variety of artwork by local artists.

A member of the management committee and president of Wombat Regional Arts Network Inc, Miranda Williamson said the artists involved in the exhibition had unique styles and perspectives.

“Our theme was techno or organic and hide and seek. Most people have gone with the theme and it’s a very difficult theme, it turns out,” she said.

“When I read the theme of techno organic, I wouldn’t have considered some of the things that some of the artists have come up with, especially because it’s a techno portion of it. But just seeing how people interpret the theme has been interesting for myself.”

The exhibition provided a platform for artists to show their works in public.

“A lot of our artists, when they’ve joined the collective, haven’t been the sort of artists that showed their work before. So, we’ve ended up with a lot more people than we ever thought were artists in the area joining. The exhibition provides that opportunity for networking and skillsharing,” she said.

“Some of our artists have even got collectors of their work now that are local that come in and try to get their work. We’ve got a lot of sculptures at the moment in this exhibition and there were people that were really interested and there was a lot of discussion with people that came in. The artist has gotten a big commission out of it so the exhibition creates that opportunity and discussion.

“Thewholegalleryisanot-for-profitsothat the community’s got somewhere to exhibit. We keep our prices low. We get grants to cover things so that we’re not relying on our artists to cover costs. We don’t discriminate, we let everybody that’s a member contribute to the exhibition. We got a huge variety

because we don’t say no to the artwork.”

The exhibition ‘Techo and/or Organic and Hide & Seek’, is on show until November 3.

Locals and visitors are also encouraged

to attend the Ballan’s Art Space’s Hide & Seek Festival on November 2 from 10am to 9.30pm.

Deadly line up set to rock Treaty in the Park

ThebestofAustralia’sIndigenoustalentwillbe on full display at Treaty in the Park on Sunday, November 24.

A celebration of First Nations’ culture and music,theeventisanewjointinitiativebetween the First Nations’ Assembly of Victoria and Wyndham City Council.

The day will feature an all First Nations lineupthatincludesDanSultan,Mo’ju,Kutcha Edwards, Brolga and Madi Colville-Walker.

Headliner Dan Sultan said he is excited to be performing.

“These gigs are always so much fun and it’s also great to play a small part in something that is so important. I’m excited to share the stage with such a mighty lineup and to be with everyone celebrating on Wadawurrung Country,” Sultan said.

Wyndham CEO Stephen Wall said the day was an important initiative that connects First Nations people and allies through live music

Make the most of senior fun

Seniors will be spoilt for choice in St Albans when the Bowery Theatre hosts two events for elders to enjoy.

Sunday, October 26 will mark a full day of intergenerational activities that include free pampering, food, art and conversation.

From 11am to 2pm, The Treasures project will take place, featuring seven seniors who have been interviewed by curious young people.

They will tell stories of what has been loved and lost, surviving wars, poverty, migration,hardworkandextraordinary changes over 100 years.

Also at the Bowery from 11am to 12.10pm, seniors are encouraged to celebrate the incredible life and music of the Forces Sweetheart.

Bringing to life the music from the 40’s to 60’s, the concert is full of insightful facts and music to have attendees laughing and singing along.

Entry is free, but bookings are required: trybooking.com/events/ landing/1262217

Footy lunch

On Monday, October 21 the Brimbank AnglicanChurchhallinKeilorwillhold a free footy legends lunch that people of any age can attend.

Join footy legends Kevin Sheedy and David Schwartz for a series of keynote speeches and an interactive question and answer session.

Kevin Sheedy is one of Australia’s most celebrated and enduring sporting figures. Listen to him share insights into his 50 year career as player and coach, his role in establishing the AFL Coaches Association and his support of anti-racial vilification laws in the game.

Strongly regarded for his service to sport and the community, Sheedy has been an AFL innovator, especially his work with Aboriginal players and their commuities.

and storytelling.

“WyndhamhasoneofthelargestAboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in the western region and this is an important initiative for our city,” he said.

The co-chair of the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria Ngarra Murray encouraged people get behind the day.

“If you’re mob, come enjoy a deadly day in the park and enrol with us to help get Treaty done,andifyou’reanallycomeandlearnmore and walk with us. It’s a journey that needs to be led by First Peoples, but it’s a journey best taken together.”

Kids under 15 and Victorian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people enrolled with the city go free, while the general public and concession holders can find tickets at: www. TreatyInThePark.com.

Jaidyn Kennedy

David Schwartz will share personal insights into his AFL career, where he is renowned for his exciting playing style.

Tickets: trybooking.com/events/ landing/1272211

Students from St. Mary’s Parish Primary School in Williamstown rehearse for their upcoming production of Romeo and Juliet. (Damjan Janevski) 430277_01

Afraa Kori

Tracey Taylor with her artwork. (Damjan Janevski) 433601_02

Two of the performers in the Treasures show. (Supplied)

Dan Sultan will rock Wyndham Park. (Supplied)

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Who was runner-up in this year’s Brownlow Medal count?

2. Who was runner-up in this year’s Norm Smith voting?

3. Which NRLW team finished on top of the ladder?

4. Which country is hosting the Women’s T20

6. Melburnian Johnny Furphy will start his NBA career with what team?

7. Who was the first Australian to play in the NBA?

8. In which city was Mal Meninga born?

9. Two sets of NRL and AFL teams share matching animal branding; what animals are they?

How many consecutive NRL Grand Finals have the Penrith Panthers played in?

How many points did the Penrith Panthers win the 2024 NRL Grand Final by?

Who won the Clive Churchill Medal in the 2024 NRL Grand Final?

What AFL club was Melbourne player Clayton Oliver rumoured to be seeking a trade to?

The Matildas will play Brazil and what other nation in two friendlies in November and December?

15. Sri Lankan spinner Praveen Jayawickrama was recently banned from cricket for how long?

16. Which Melbourne Storm player was accused of biting an opponent in the 2024 NRL Grand Final?

17. Patty Mills will play for what NBA team in the 2024/25 season?

18. And what Australian city presented Mills with the 'keys to the city' in 2014?

19. Ford and which other manufacturer are featured in the Supercars Championship?

20. How many rounds are there in the Supercars Championship in 2024?

21. Steph Catley, Kyra Cooney-Cross and Caitlin Foord currently play for which Women’s Super League team?

22. Brian Goorjian is the coach of which NBL team?

23. Which country has 33 players taking part in the current AFL Women’s season?

24. Olympic gold medallist Jessica Fox was recently announced as a presenter for what upcoming sporting event?

25. Which Australian cricketer was recently ruled out from bowling for up to three months due to a stress fracture in his back?

26. In what year will the Tasmania Devils debut in the AFL?

27. In late October, which Australian boxer will fight Russian Bakhram Murtazaliev in a super middleweight world title match?

28. Aussie Matthew Hayball currently plays what position for NFL team New Orleans Saints?

29. Which country won the most recent International Rules Series played in 2017 between AFL players from Australia and Gaelic footballers from Ireland?

30. The Major League Baseball team based in Cleveland is known by what nickname?

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

ACROSS

1 Underground railway (6)

4 Made a watery sound (8)

9 Member of a Jamaican religious movement (5)

10 Progressed (9)

11 Follow (5)

12 Doppelganger (4-5)

13 Primula vulgaris (8)

15 Heralds (6)

16 Beginner (6)

18 US state (8)

23 Texting (9)

24 Venetian explorer, – Polo (5)

26 Contribute (9)

27 Synthetic fibre (5)

28 Evening prayer (8)

29 US state (6)

DOWN

1 Distribute (food) (5,2)

2 Transport vehicles (5)

3 Dabbler (7)

5 Russian who studied reflexes (6)

6 Long-spouted containers (7)

7 Pleasure (9)

8 Bumper cars (7)

10 Wooded valleys (5)

14 Incapable of being seen (9)

16 Hindu greeting (7)

17 Odds (7)

19 Bird of prey (5)

20 Its capital is Bucharest (7)

21 Quantities (7)

22 Sight (6)

25 Parts in plays (5)

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 To which plant family does lavender belong?

2 In what year did Radiohead release their first single Creep?

3 Which Australian actor played Viggo Mortensen’s (pictured) son in the film adaptation of Cormac McCarthy’s novel The Road?

4 Red Leicester, Tilsit and Bel Paese are all types of what?

5 How many flea species can fly?

6 Which disco group included members Victor Willis, Randy Jones and Glenn Hughes?

7 Who painted Les toits de Collioure in 1905?

8 Is the state of Karnataka in the southern or northern part of India?

9 What part of the body does the word buccal refer to?

10 Which large seabird has been known to live for more than 50 years?

Qashqai e-Power takes the high road

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

Back in the ‘noughties’ the Pulsar hatchback was not pulling its weight in Europe, so the maker Nissan decided to beef it up and give it a new name: in this case the Qashqai, and a new identity, the compact SUV.

Down Under it became the Dualis, before following in Euro-fashion with the Qashqai moniker. Now it has gone hybrid … but, Jim, not as we know it.

While the popular petrol/electric hybrid these days uses both power sources to drive the vehicle, Nissan’s e-Power system leaves the internal combustion engine to charge the battery only, hopefully giving the Qashqai the performance of a full electric vehicle without any plug-in problems (eg: range anxiety).

And, as befitting a rare and exclusive model, the Aussie Qashqai e-Power comes in top Ti specification only. The flagship trim includes e-Power badging and premium front grille, approaching sound for pedestrians and active noise cancellation, as well as e-Pedal Step and regenerative braking.

Needless to say, the shift is no downsize in comfort and convenience. The Qashqai Ti e-Powerautochecksinat$52,090,pluson-road costs. This compares with the entry-level Qashqai ST at $34,390.

While the latter makes do with a three-cylinder 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine and CVT transmission, the Ti Hybrid calls on a premium-fuelled 1.5-litre turbo complemented by a 2.1kWh lithium-ion battery and single-speed auto.

Nissan’s five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty is industry standard. Roadside assist covers a similar length of time.

Styling

Panoramic glass roof is fixed, while the sunshade is electrically retractable. It’s LED lighting all round, including daytime running lights and turn signals. As well as 19-inch alloy wheels, a graphite rear bumper finish and e-Power front grille are unique additions.

Interior

The cabin comes with quilted leather accented seats, which offer power adjustment up front as well as driver memory and massaging functions for both front occupants. With four up, the Qashqai is welcoming to ‘tall timber’. A

third person can squash into the middle of the rear where air vents, and USB-A and USB-C charge points are handy.

Ambient lighting sets the tone.

Back there is a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders, map pockets behind both front seats, and bottle holders in the rear doors.

ISOFIX anchors are situated on the outboard seats, as well as top-tether points across all three rear positions.

Boot space is up there with the best in class – capacity for the Ti is 452 litres with the rear seat backs upright, expanding to 1376 litres with them folded. The lack of any sort of spare wheel, does the owner no favours, a tyre repair kit can present a stressful challenge and a call to roadside assist.

Infotainment

A 12.3-inch central screen, with access to wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto and similar-size advanced instrument cluster, 10.8-inch head-up windscreen display and 10-speaker Bose audio are highlights. Embedded satellite navigation with live traffic updates, AM/FM/DAB+ digital radio, as well as USB-A and USB-C connectivity are joined by a wireless smartphone charger.

Engines/transmissions

The Qashqai’s e-power system consists of a high-output battery, complemented by a world top ten 116 kW 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, developed by Nissan’s luxury Infiniti arm, a power generator, inverter and electric motor for a total power output of 140kW.

The petrol engine generates electricity, which can be transmitted via the inverter to the battery pack, the electric motor or both, through varying compression ratios, according to driving requirements. This unique power source supplies the wheels directly, so response is instant and seamless, for a smooth driving experience, without the need for external charging.

Safety

The Qashqai attracts a five-star ANCAP rating based on 2021 testing. Standard safety features include seven airbags, including. front-centre. Autonomous emergency braking features pedestrian and cyclist detection, plus junction assist.

Alsoacrosstherangeareactivespeedlimiter, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision and lane departure warning, lane keep assist, rear parking sensors, reversing camera, traffic sign recognition and tyre pressure monitoring.

The Ti e-Power adds Intelligent 360-degree camera,movingobjectdetection,frontparking sensors, ProPILOT lane centring, alarm system, intelligent park assist (semi-auto park) and side parking sensors.

Driving Nissan engineers worked on keeping the e-Power driving experience ‘connected’, with petrol engine speed remaining relative to vehicle road speed no matter what the energy demands are. This ‘Linear Tune’ removes any disconnect felt by driver or passengers in performance or sound.

Nissan reckons the Ti e-Power should average around 5.2 litres per 100 kilometres on a combined urban/highway cycle, with carbon dioxide emissions of 117g/km. The tester ran between 4.5 and 6.2 litres per 100 kilometres over a week, which equates loosely to the maker’s combined consumption claim.

The e-Power demands 95 RON premium unleaded petrol in the 55-litre capacity fuel tank for an expected range of up to 1050km. Onepedaldriving,asintheLeaf,isbeneficial in stop/start town travel, removing the need for the driver to keep up the constant shift of one foot from the accelerator to brake pedal and back.Callede-PedalStep,thesystemallowsthe driver to speed up or slow down using a single pedal.

Reducing the Qashqai to a slow crawl, with stoplightilluminated,willnotbringthevehicle to a complete stop. As for Drive Modes, Eco is for lazy days, Normal is down to day-to-day business, while Sport summons up the promise of an adrenaline-fuelled wild weekend. Well, sort of …

The chassis is set up on the sporty side, the stiffsuspensioncompetingwith(anddefeating) the softer clubby cabin surroundings, while Active Noise Cancellation uses the audio system to play a competing frequency to cancel out ambient noise.

Summary

Automobile magicians continue to pull petrol/ electric rabbits out of the hat, with hybrids being the prominent breed. Nissan is the latest to sprinkle eco-fairy dust over pesky pollutants.

Nissan engineers worked on keeping the e-Power driving experience ‘connected’. (Pictures: Supplied)

Players finally hitting the park

The sun was out on Saturday and with it many cricket and baseball seasons got underway. StarWeeklyphotographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the action.

Melton’s Ameir Majur. 436972_11

Seabrook captain Daniel Kilfoy. 436966_06

Werribee Centrals’ Usman Ashraf and Luke Simpson. 436966_03

Bacchus Marsh’s Zak Martinez. 436974_04

Melton Thoroughbreds’ Max Vanberkel. 436974_14

Altona’s Charlie Ward. 436967_04

Williamstown’s Fraser Hay. 436967_01

Sunshine’s Josh Byrne. 436968_03

Sunshine’s Deacon McPhail. 436968_10

Bacchus Marsh’s Maisy Hammond. 436972_17

Coach Grech keen to continue building the Rams

New Western Rams coach Connor Grech is keen to continue the momentum the side built in this year’s Western Football League division 2 season.

Back on the winners list for the first time in more than 2000 days, the Rams finished the season with two wins and were competitive in a lot of games.

It was the Rams first season in the Western league.

Grech said it was exciting to take on the opportunity,

“I’m definitely excited and looking forward to it,” he said. “It’s close to where I’m living with all the traffic these days. It works well.

“They were competitive and they turned a corner.”

Grech has been involved in the league before, coaching St Albans under-18 team previously. He’s also been part of the Calder

Cannons coaching set up as a development coach for the girls program and coached interleague for the past four years.

Grech highlighted the performances of the side this year as something that attracted him to the role.

“We had five games where we lost by five goals or under against some good teams,” he said.

“At stages we were in front. We’re looking to be as competitive as we can be next season.

“The competition will evening up a little bit with Albion, Newport and Sunshine going up. It opens the competition wide open.”

The Rams have re-signed a lot of the playing group, including Tyler Lewis who polled well in the league best and fairest.

Grech said there was a good culture and the playing group was keen to stick around.

Now they are looking to add some more

pieces to the puzzle.

“We’re talking to some guys and hopefully we can get some through the door,” Grech said. “We’ve been very lucky to find two young rucks, 19 and 20-year-old ruckman and we’re pretty happy with those two.

“That will build our ruck division, we were a bit undersized last year. Very happy with some of the signings so far.”

Grech said the main focus for him was to continue to build on the hard work that has been done the past couple of years.

“They won two games last season, we’re looking to build on that,” he said. “We don’t want to put a ceiling on ourselves, we’ll see what happens.

“Want to be an organised, do the best things that we can do, be professional and see where it takes us.”

Tara Murray

Swayzee claims Vic Cup

By Tara Murray with Lachlan Mitchell

Swayzee kept it in the family when he demolished his rivals in Saturday night’s $300,000 Group 1 Victoria Cup at Melton.

The older half-brother to Leap To Fame, who was pre-race favourite for the cup before being shock race-eve scratching.

Cam Hart, Swayzee’s driver, made it his night as he came from a back row draw to work to the front and stay there.

Swayzee held on to beat stablemate Curly James just 0.4sec outside the track record. Hart said it was pretty special to come away with the cup.

“Unbelievable, especially after that performance,” he said Harness Racing Victoria.

“Jase [trainer Jason Grimson] said he was as good as he’s ever been and I probably took confidence out of the battle that he and Leap the Fame have had before and they’ve run the arms off the clock with him not here.

“I thought I would drive him like the best horse and he certainly was.”

After a stunning sectional ride, Hart had no fear that Swayzee had already run its race.

“Once he gets in that gear he can sustain it.

I know the horse pretty well.”

Hart said the win was extra special to do it with Grimson, who he has worked with the past three years.

The pair are great mates.

Elsewhere, trotting juggernaut Just Believe has added another group 1 to his incredible CV with a second Bill Collins Trotters Sprint.

The Jess Tubbs-trained squaregaiter didn’t have things his own way and had to fight of the challengers, the Chris Lang-prepared Ollivici and the John Justice-trained Mufasa Metro to salute by 1.4m.

Driver Greg Sugars was confident his charge would find a second that winning edge.

“I knew he would rally, cause he always does fight so hard,” Sugars said.

“I was a bit concerned when Chris (Lang) pushed the button on Ollivici upon straightening and I thought we had a bit of a fight on our hands here.”

Centrals add experience

Melton Centrals has added a bit of experience and a touch of class with two big signings for the Riddell District Football League season.

Centrals announced that Fabian Brancatisano and Hisham Kerbatieh wouldbejoiningtheclubfornextseason. Both played with Sunshine in the Western Football League division 2 competition last season and were part of the premiership team.

Fabian brings extensive experience to the team, having played 30 VFL [VictorianFootballLeague]gamesacross Coburg, Port Melbourne, Werribee, and Essendon,” the club said.

“He’s also a standout at the local level with over 100 premier division games, and has represented Loddon Valley, WRFL and EDFL [Essendon District Football League] in interleague games, “We’re looking forward to seeing Fabian’stalentandleadershiponthefield this season.”

Kerbatiehhasalsopreviouslyplayedin the VFL having played with the Calder Cannons before that.

“With an impressive record of 50 VFL games with Carlton, Williamstown, and Coburg, Hisham brings a wealth of experience to the team,” Centrals said. “He’s also an elite goal kicker, having slotted over 500 goals in 300 games, and has proudly represented the EDFL in eight interleague matches.

“We can’t wait to see Hisham in action this season as he adds his incredible skill and experience to our team.”

“We were pretty happy with him going in after a five-week break, but he was going to be slightly vulnerable tonight, to win in the way we did, it was very pleasing.”

Majority owner, Malcolm Wells was once again stunned by the his pride and joy .

“I have owned horses since 1976, but nothing even close to this. He is a beautiful horse to be involved with and he has got a never say die attitude,” Wells said.

Wells’ had his doubts if his star trotter would get the job done.

“When Ollivici kicked I thought geez we are going to be in trouble, but he never gives up, he is just a magnificent horse,” he said.

French import and newest acquisition to the Andy Gath stable, Callmethebreeze finished right at the back of the field after breaking gait with 150m to go.

The Northern Hemisphere-import was forced to spend most of the trip three wide, before stumbling in the concluding stages.

Ollivici and the Ewa Justice-driven Mufasa Metro rounded out the minor placings.

As well as the new signings, Centrals announced the re-signings of Josh Thomas, Dylan McDonald, Hayden Sproule and Caleb Higgins in the last week.

They come after the announcement of Damian Zanic as coach for the next two seasons.

Jason Grimson and Cam Hart. (Stuart McCormick)

Connor Grech. (Supplied)

Fabian Brancatisano. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 431491_08

Royals kick off the cricket season with a bang

A once in a lifetime performance from Saman Kumara Muthuwadige got Melton South Royals off to the perfect start in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Evans-Clark Shield on Saturday.

Making his debut for the Royals, Muthuwadige finished day one of the two-day clash with Roxburgh Park with 14 wickets. Muthuwadige finished with nine wickets in the Falcons first innings and took another five in their second innings.

With three wickets still remaining to be takenondaytwohistallycouldbeevenbigger.

Royals coach Adam Miller said it’d been a long time since he’d seen a day of cricket like that.

“It was good to get off to a good start and get some points on the board,” he said. “Muthuwadige has 14 wickets and it’s only game one.

“He took 9-5 including a hat-trick and then finished with 5-7 in the second innings. Everything was going right.”

The Royals won the toss on Saturday and decided to have a bowl.

They needed just 13 overs and two bowlers as they rolled through the Falcons for just 18.

The Royals then went in the hunt of quick runs as they tried to claim an outright victory on day one.

They declared at 7-84 with Keshara Lakshan and Joshua Sutton making 22 each.

With a lead of 66, the Royals sent the Falcons back in.

The Falcons will resume at 7-74 with a lead of eight runs.

Miller said it would have been good to get the whole 10 points on day one with a bit of rain forecast for day two.

For the new coach, everything has gone to

plan so far.

He said the group has the bigger picture in mind.

“We’ve brought some guys in to try and help us get to finals,” he said. “It’s not so much the performances, it’s getting everyone on the same page.

“The ones and seconds are on the same page and the thirds and fourth XIs are on the same page. We want to build the club to be a successful one.”

As well as bringing in some new recruits, Miller said being able to get the likes of former coach Leigh Edwards back out there had been massive as well.

He said Edwards had been a big help to him in the coaching side of things.

“He picks up things I might miss.”

Tara Murray

The Bulls charge ahead

A new-look Bacchus Marsh opened the Ballarat Cricket Association season with a strong win against Golden Point on Saturday. With a new coach and a few changes to the playing group, the Bulls are always going to take time to settle.

Whiletheywillonlygetbetter,captain-coach Sam Crea was ecstatic with how they started the season.

“It was great to start off with a win,” he said. “I was impressed with the way the boys went about it and everyone played their role.

“We lost eight or nine players from last year and we lost four or five key players. We came together as a team.

“Wegotthreewinsoutoffivematcheswithin theseniorgroup,itwassomerewardforeffort.”

Crea said they were expecting to have ups and downs throughout the season but that was all part of the process.

Joining Crea at the Bulls this season are his brother Matthew Crea and Jayden White-Powell, who all played at Grand United

in the past couple of years.

Matthew is a left arm spinner and bat who can execute well, while White-Powell is an opening bat.

Shanin Silva joins the club from Bundoora and is an allrounder.

Crea said there would still be plenty of opportunity for younger players coming through the program.

On Saturday, the Bulls won the toss against Golden Point and decided to bat.

Crea said that would be the plan for most of the season.

They finished with 9-238 from their overs.

“We set the tone early with Jayden and Alex Porteraswewentarunaballthefirst10overs,” he said. “We put them on the back foot before they came back into the game when they took 4-20.

“We were 6-144 before Alex and Kosh McGrath batted well.

“Alex made 106, his first 100 in a couple of years.”

Sports shorts

RDNL

Melton South has announced that Anna Edmonds will continue on as coach of the club’s netball program. The Panthers said that Edmonds was excited for the new era of the club as it moved to the Riddell District Netball League and she was looking forward to continuing to grow the program.

A-League

Ben Garuccio has added his name into another page of Western United’s history books, becoming the club’s third-ever A-League men’s captain. Already having had the experience of wearing the armband for part of last season, Garuccio’s permanent appointment reflects the widespread respect he garners from across the club. Garuccio will be supported by Tomoki Imai who will continue as vice-captain for the second straight season.

VSDCA

Melton suffered a first up loss against Caulfield in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association south-west. Caulfield made 7-193 off its 45 overs with Brad Jones and James Robertson taking two wickets each for the Lions. The batter failed to fire for the Lions, who were bowled out for 103. Joshua Luca top scored with 25 before being run out. The Lions face Port Melbourne this week.

A-League

McGrath finished with 50 not out in just his third first XI game.

Crea said it was a testament to him to show that ability having not had many chances in the past.

The Bulls started well with the ball and had Golden Point in trouble at 2-17. Golden Point was eventually bowled out for 109.

Crea said they stuck to their bowling plan and made it hard for Golden Point to score.

Armi Wakefield, who is just 16, took 3-27 off his seven overs, while Angus Jones, who is almost 18, took two wickets opening the bowling.

Crea, who also took two wickets, said it was exciting to see the youth stand up.

The Bulls this week face Lake Wendouree.

Crea said they were excited for another challenge against one of the top sides.

In other matches, Darley beat Mt Clear.

The Lions made 181 before bowling Mt Clear out for 159.

Tara Murray

New Western United goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln has received her first Matildas call up. The 21-year-old was one of 23 players named in the squad by interim coach Tom Sermanni. Lincoln was one of two players to receive their first Matildas call up, along with midfielder Daniela Galic. “The young, uncapped players in Daniela and Chloe come high regarded thanks to their performances over the last twelve months, including helping the CommBank Young Matildas to their best Asian Cup performance in almost two decades,” Sermanni. United captain and former Australian representative Chloe Logarzo wasn’t among those included in the squad.

Armi Wakefield. (Jacob Pattison) 374059_18

Saman Kumara Muthuwadige took 14 wickets on day one. (Supplied)

Burnside keen to perform better this season

Burnside Springs United is using the disappointment of last Victorian Turf Cricket Association Russell Pollock Shield season to drive it this season.

In just its second season in the competition, Burnside made finals but a batting collapse left the side just short of its first grand final in the competition.

With the same group back again and with some key additions, Burnside coach Cass Elorza is excited about what they can achieve.

“It has been a long pre-season and we’re looking forward to getting out there,” he said before the game with Barkly Street Uniting.

“Our first year was a free hit as we came into the competition… We learned the competition and learned the teams.

“We ramped it up a little bit more with four of our five teams playing finals, all four got knocked out of the grand final.

“Our first XI team getting knocked out, that hurt a lot. All the boys straight after the game said we would regroup and be back next year.

“We had primed at the right time but didn’t perform on that weekend.”

Elorza said across the board they had kept most of the playing group.

There had been a couple of retirements from the second XI, while some of the younger ones wouldn’t be available until after Christmas due to school.

Burnside has added several key recruits to their first XI side.

Isira Silva, who has previously played with Melton in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association, joins the club from Barkly Street Uniting.

He made 379 runs and took 11 wickets last season.

Mathieson King, who has played VTCA senior division with St Albans and Yarraville Club, has also come across.

He was a premiership player at Burnside in under-16s.

Third signing Armit Sandhu who joins the club from Sunbury United in the Gisborne

and District Cricket Association.

Elorza said all three would play in the first XI and play pivotal roles. He said they were getting 40 at training every night.

One of the biggest things for the club this season will be having full access to both their ovals for the first time in a number of years.

“It’s a new era for the club,” he said. “We’ll have a new shirt design.

“Our ones have not played a home game in three years. It’s the first time in five years that we can have two teams playing at home at the same time.

“We’ll be able to enjoy that again without all the travel.”

On Saturday, Burnside Springs started its season.

Barkly Street Uniting was bowled out for 202 with Shohan Rangika taking five wickets for Burnside.

Burnside will resume at 5-76.

Lions kick off with wins

By Tara Murray

Bacchus Marsh Lions kicked off their Country Basketball League women’s north-west season with back-to-back wins on the weekend.

After a bye in round one, the Lions started their season against the Melton Thoroughbreds on Saturday night.

The match came down to Jordan Wilson free throws with three seconds to go. She sank both to give the Lions a 66-65. They then backed it up with a 70-43 against the Maryborough Blazers on Sunday.

Lions coach Monique Caparello said it was nice to finally get out there and play some basketball.

“It was good to get the two wins,” she said. “We had a week to look at some teams sheets and names on rosters to prepare.

“We went with the flow and it was definitely a nailbiter on Saturday night.”

Caparello said the biggest message out of Saturday night was that the Thoroughbreds were playing their third game of the season,

while they were playing just their first and things would only get better.

“I got to see how we play,” she said. “We didn’t take as many opportunities as we could have in transition.

“CBL is different from Big V and it’s a lot more physical. It’s a learning curve for us and it’ll be back to the drawing board for us.”

It was a physical game with 52 fouls paid across the two teams.

Wilson finished with 24 points for the Lions, while Jelena Savic scored 13 points.

For the Thoroughbreds, Ruby Murphy top scored with 18 points including hitting four three-pointers.

Caparello said it was positive to see the group already made some adjustments from game one to game two, saying they were a lot more comfortable in the offence and it showed on the scoreboard.

Wilson top scored in Sunday’s match as well with 19 points.

While Caparello is new to the club, the core group has started the same.

Burras open their account

It was a winning start to the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield for Diggers Rest Bulla on Saturday.

After a bye in round one, the Burras were in action in a one-dayer against Eastern Hill at Kings Park Reserve, Seymour.

It’s the first time the two teams had faced each other with Eastern Hill joining the competition.

The Burras won the toss and elected to bat.

It wasn’t the greatest innings as the Burras were bowled out for just 96.

Dylan Caruana top scored with 29 as there were four ducks in the innings.

The Burras bowlers were able to turn the game back in their favour.

They bowled Eastern Hill out for just 45.

Daniel Rodger took 5-8 off eight overs.

Kilmore got on the board with a win against Eynesbury. Kilmore made 7-190 before restricting the Eagles to 144.

Ryan Cran top scored with 31 for the Eagles.

Wallan made it two from two with a win against Aintree.

She said a lot of the girls had played Big V between seasons and grown a bit.

They were keen to improve on last season.

“Finals are achievable for this group,” she said. “We’re taking it one game at a time but the goal is to play finals.”

The Lions have another double header this weekend facing the Mildura Heat and Swan Hill Flyers, both on the road.

The Lions men also opened their season with two wins on the weekend.

On Saturday night, the Lions beat the Thoroughbreds, 119-94.

The damage was done in the middle two quarters, which the Lions won 64-51.

Hunter Salmons top scored with 29 points, while Daniel Salvatore scored 21 points.

For the Thoroughbreds, Tyson Hamilton put up 32 points.

On Sunday, the Lions beat the Blazers, 90-76.

Hunter Salmons scored 20 points and Salvatore had 18 points.

They have a double header like the women this weekend.

Aintree made 9-154 from its 40 overs with Gurbeer Singh top scoring with 62.

The Magpies made the runs with more than six overs remaining, finishing 4-158. Nathan Fowler made 67 not out for the Magpies.

The Jensen Shield got underway on Saturday with Riddell and Harkness among the winners.

The Bombers proved too strong for Rupertswood. Rupo made 8-153 from its overs. Owen Arthur and Matt Lloyd took two wickets each for the Bombers. The Bombers chased the total down with ease, finishing 3-155. Luke Castle, Harry Fisher and Lloyd all posted scores in the 40s.

Harkness, formerly known as St Anthonys, started its season with a win against Lancefield. The Tigers made 9-175 with Lachlan Mitchell top scoring with 56 not out. Harkness made 6-197, hitting the winning runs with nearly eight overs remaining.

Bacchus Marsh celebrates the win. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 436972_19

Tara Murray Shohan Rangika. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Bellbrook Gardens Open Day

Homes available from $530,000 NO STAMP DUTY!

Bellbrook Gardens Country Club is excited to invite you to attend our next Open Day to be held at the Club House.

Light refreshments will be served. This will be a great opportunity to visit our wonderful community facilities, view Villas for sale and learn more about retirement living.

Monday 21st October at 10.30am 168 Underbank Boulevard Bacchus Marsh 3340

Please RSVP online to bellbrookgardens.com.au or FreeCall 1800 633 672

RSVP Essential – Places are limited

For any queries please contact Denise Sniegowski We look forward to catching up with you soon!

BACCHUS MARSH