Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 19th November 2024

Australian

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16 days of activism

The Australian Vietnamese Women’s Association (AVWA) will commemorate the 16 Days of Activism with a special event, on Friday, November 29.

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a global campaign led annually by UN Women.

The campaign runs every year from November 25 (the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) until December 10 (Human Rights Day).

At the Bowery Theatre in St Albans, the opening event will commence at 10am, with a host of speeches and performances.

It will conclude at noon and guests are invited to stay on until 2pm and attend stalls and activities around the St Albans Community Centre and outside on Errington Reserve, including a Walk Against Family Violence.

This event will feature activities and entertainment and gift bags. Lunch and refreshments provided.

AVWA chief executive Nicky Chung said the event is set to be a big success after a big turnout last year.

“Safety is a human right we should all experience, and it starts with the way we show respect to each other,” she said.

 For more turn to page 17.

Rodent road rescue relief

By Gerald Lynch

When Kealba resident Mariana Pacheco was driving down Biggs Street, St Albans, and looked out her window to see a cardboard box labelled ‘free guinea pigs’ she thought someone was playing a prank.

But when she looked inside the box that was left a quarter open to let air in, Ms Pacheco was met by two small, scared guinea pigs.

“I actually thought it was a prank when I saw the box on the side of the road but I had to check it out just in case,” she said.

“The poor things were terrified, I couldn’t just leave them there.”

She posted online in community groups trying to find their owner, conceding that although abandoning them was a poor thing to do, she understands owning a pet can be challenging.

“Sadly, I think there isn’t enough education on where you can surrender pets if you can no longer provide a home for them and people get desperate and just dump them for fear of being treated negatively at the time of surrender,” she said.

“Also, I think people see a little pet and think they don’t take much work. Guinea pigs can require a lot of work to look after and people get tired of it. That’s not an excuse to dump them but it’s possibly a better option

than having them be mistreated or neglected and eventually die.”

Ms Pacheco decided to adopt the orphans, naming them Cookies and Cream, and has built a pen for them in her front yard.

She said they will be available for the whole community to enjoy, giving them a good life and allowing neighbours without pets to join in looking after them.

“They’re both doing well after a stressful start for them,” she said.

“Cookies is very confident and Cream is quite shy. But they love their carrots and greens, mainly the dandelion weeds.”

For no-judgement surrender advice, contact the RSPCA team on 9224 222.

Vietnamese Women’s Association chief executive Nicky Chung, project officer Kim Thien Truong, operations mananger Huy Luu

office manager Dung Huynh. (Damjan Janevski) 442559_01

Mariana with Cookies and Cream. (Supplied)

Greens councillor joins Brimbank

Brimbank has its first Greens councillor in 15 years, after Lucy Nguyen knocked out incumbent councillor Sam David in the Kororoit Creek Ward.

Cr Nguyen secured55.46 per cent of the final vote, marking a significant win for the Greens in Brimbank.

In a series of social media posts, Cr Nguyen said her election was a win for people who wanted politics to be done differently.

“This victory is made up of a collective effort of people who believe we deserve a better, safer and greener neighbourhood. This is just

the beginning. I’m excited to get to work,” she wrote. “I am determined to lead by example. Great outcomes can be achieved for our community through kindness, compassion and integrity.”

Cr Nguyen is one of four new faces on Brimbank council this term. She will be joined by Joh Bauch, Daniel Kruk and Katharine Nikolic.

Cr Kruk said his win followed “hundreds of door-knocks, thousands of steps walking Sunshine, 15,000 flyers hand delivered, round theclocksocialmediaandabout50báhnmì’s”.

“Your voices are clear, we need strong local advocacy to improve liveability and quality of life for our people,“ he wrote on social media.

“From rubbish dumping to crime prevention and environmental protection, I can’t wait to get working for you.”

Crs Victoria Borg, Thuy Dang, Maria Kerr, Ranka Rasic and Virginia Tachos were re-elected having served on council from 2020-2024, while Cr Cr Duyen Anh Pham and CrKimThienTruongservedanearliertermon council.

Brimbank council chief executive Fiona

10 442398_03

Dinjerra story hub set to open

Braybrook’s Dinjerra Primary School has teamed up with youth literacy program 100 Story Building to create a dedicated story hub to help inspire students’ creative writing.

Situated in the school library, the story hub will be officially launched on Tuesday, November 26 following an eight-week collaboration between grade 5-6 students, story hub facilitators and artist Benjamin Adler.

“They’ve transformed the library space using ideas from students across the school and then they worked with an artist (Adler) and they shared their creative process with him and he used the narrative that they’d

written to design the story hub,” said Dinjerra teacher and story hub facilitator Nazlia Edwards explaining how the collaboration worked.

Despite working on the development of the storyhub,Dinjerrastudentshaveyettoseethe finished product and won’t until it is unveiled next week.

Ms Edwards has had a sneak peak though and said Adler’s work will well and truly have the desired effect.

“It’s quite amazing what he’s done and it will really spark creativity from the kids to help them with their writing which is the whole point,” she said.

“They’ll go into the story hub space for writing lessons with their teachers and interact with the installations to help them generate ideas for stories.”

The hub will be open for all students at the school, including at lunch times and despite being in the first of a three year partnership with 100 Story Building, Ms Edwards said it would remain in the school library for the foreseeable future.

“It’ll stay like this for a long time,” she said.

“It’s an absolutely amazing example of student voice and agency.”

Cade Lucas

Blair extended congratulations to the new councillors.

“It is both an honour and a tremendous responsibility to be voted to represent the best interestsofthecommunity,”shesaid.“Together we can build a transformed Brimbank that is beautiful, thriving, healthy and connected – a city that is a great place to live, work and grow.”

The first meeting of the new council is scheduled for 6pm on Wednesday, November 20.

The mayor and deputy mayor will be voted on this night.

Strong result for Vic Uni

Victoria University (VU) has performed well in a national higher education survey.

The QILT Student Experience Survey is the only comprehensive survey of current higher education students in Australia.

VU ranked first in Victoria in four of the six categories measured in the survey.

In skills development, VU was ranked one in Victoria,?5th nationally? and?3rd among publicly-funded universities.

In peer engagement, VU was ranked first in Victoria and ?second nationally and first among publicly-funded universities with engagement scores nearly 20 percentage points above the national average.

The university was also first in the state for teaching quality, fourth nationally and first among public institutions.

VU was also ranked first in Victoria for the quality of its entire educational experience, sixth nationally and fourth among public universities.

“We could not be more delighted. And we dedicate ourselves to keeping up this tremendous focus on getting even better on behalf of our more than 45,000 students,” said VU Vice-Chancellor

Professor Adam Shoemaker of the results which he attributed to the university’s block teaching model. Implemented in 2018, the VU block model involves students learning one subject at a time in four-week blocks in small, workshop style classes.

Professor Shoemaker said “The outcome is down to the stellar efforts of thousands of teaching colleagues at VU. Your work is fantastic and your care for students is legendary.”

Sunshine North company fined by EPA for foam overload

A Sunshine North company has been fined over a foam-without-the-fire incident that polluted the Maribyrnong River.

EPA Victoria has fined R.A. Bell & Co Pty Ltd $3952 for contravening the Environment Protection Act 2017 by allowing 20 litres of concentrated firefighting foam to enter the stormwater system.

The investigation began with a report from the public on August 6.

EPAofficersfollowedthetrailoffoambackto the site on Berkshire Road where the company

provides engineering and maintenance services for fire and rescue agencies.

Theyfoundthecompanyhadfailedtofollow its onsite procedures, allowing firefighting foam to escape into the stormwater drainage network.

EPA Western Metropolitan regional manager Jeremy Settle said that the quick report from the public made all the difference.

“That timely call meant the trail of foam hadn’t been washed away in the stormwater drain and the trail of evidence was still

there to follow,” he said. “Businesses have a responsibility to contain spills on site, through their procedures and measures like having a barrier that can trap liquids before they escape from the property.

“Whether a foam or detergent is toxic or not, many of them deprive the water of oxygen, which can kill fish, the tiny invertebrates they live on, and plant life in and around the river.”

In this case, the firefighting foam is understood not to contain harmful PFAS

chemicals and gradually dissipated in the river. EPA will continue to regulate the company, requiringittoinstallcontrolstoensurethatno more incidents like this can occur.

UndertheEnvironmentProtectionAct2017 and the Infringements Act 2006, the operator has the right to have the infringement notice reviewed or be considered by a court. Members of the public can report pollution by calling EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or at epa.vic.gov.au/report-pollution/ reporting-pollution

Dinjerra Primary School students Ryan 11, Claire 11, Oscar 12 and Anushka in front of the new school’s new story hub set to open on November 26. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

A very special fundraiser

By Faith Macale

Spending Christmas Day in the hospital is not a common thing for most people, but for terminally ill children, that is the norm.

West man Daniel Roberts’ son contracted bronchiolitis and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) at just two months old and spent a week in hospital.

This drove Mr Roberts to raise funds for terminally ill kids through Very Special Kids.

“It was about a week in hospital with feeding tubes and oxygen, and it was a challenging week,” he said.

“It was hard to see your kid go through that.

“It would be even harder if my kid was terminally ill or had cancer or if they’ve got a short life expectancy.”

One night, while scrolling through TikTok, Mr Roberts found Very Special Kids, and from then, started a GoFundMe to raise money for sick children.

“It helps kids with terminal cancer, different disorders that shorten their life expectancy,” he said.

“It’s also about the parents trying to cope in those times.”

“Expenses for hospitals, medical treatment, just general needs … it could be just as simple as just formulas.

Mr Roberts said he heard stories from other parents when his son was in the hospital.

“They’re talking about their kids in the ICU and hospice, it also got to me,” he said.

“Coming up to Christmas, we enjoy buying all your kids presents, but we’ve got to do something nice, and give support to kids who need it.”

Like striking a spark that lit up big flames, Mr Roberts has raised $600, surpassing his initial goal of $500.

“Family, my wife, people at church, and

friends, all the credit goes to them,” he said.

“I just started it, they’re the ones that made it grow.

“Just by donating a small amount or just contributing, you’re doing more for someone

than what you already know.

“If you do it, it’s amazing what you’re doing.”

For donations, visit vsk.grassrootz.com/ do-something-very-special-your-way/ roberts-family

Teens arrested after burglaries

Brimbank police arrested five male teenagers following a string of alleged burglaries and theft of motor vehicles in Melbourne’s north-west in the past month.

It is alleged that a group stole keys to vehicles while the owners attended a number of gyms throughout the north-western suburbs of Melbourne between Sunday, October 20 and Monday, October 28.

No one was physically injured.

Police will allege the group of teens used the stolen cars in a number of burglaries and an armed robbery.

On Wednesday, November 13, police executed multiple search warrants in the north-west.

Officers located and seized a number of vehicles, weapons, clothing, electronic items and jewellery that were believed to be stolen.

Two 17-year-old boys were charged with one count of aggravated burglary and one count of armed robbery, with one remanded in custody to appear before a children’s court on November 13 and the other will appear at a later date.

Another 17-year-old boy was charged with three counts of burglary and one count of theft of a motor vehicle and a 16-year-old boy was charged with two counts of burglary and two counts of theft of a motor vehicle.

They will all appear at a children’s court at a later date.

Another 17-year-old boy was also released pending further inquiries.

Dan Graeme with his six-month-old son Carter. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 442586_03

Exhibition worth bottling

To mark the first anniversary of Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic) and coinciding with National Recycling Week, a new interactive installation has opened at Scienceworks.

The ‘Message in a Bottle’ installation was launched at the Spotswood museum last week and demonstrates the recycling journey of a plastic bottle.

In keeping with the name, messages written by primary school students about what recycling means to them have been placed inside the plastic bottles used to create the installation aimed at highlighting the importance of recycling and how it shapes the planet.

The installation was officially opened Friday, November 1, which was also the first birthday of CDS Vic.

The scheme which allows Victorians to return eligible drink containers for a 10-cent refund at over 640 return points across the

state, has recycled one billion drink containers sinceitstartedonNovember1,2023,generating $100 billion.

Chief executive of scheme co-ordinator VicReturn, Jim Round, said the CDS was just getting started.

“The journey doesn’t stop here,” Mr Round said.

“We are committed to seeing the scheme go from strength to strength over the next 12 months and the years ahead.”

Mr Round said the CDS’s community fundraising outreach was a key part of this.

ThosewantingtovisittheMessageinaBottle installation to learn about recycling, can then put that knowledge into practice by bringing their empty drink containers and depositing them at the CDS Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) located in the Scienceworks carpark.

Theinteractiveinstallationisondisplayuntil January 27 next year.

Cade

Lucas

Briefs

Kealba fire

A large fire broke out in portable buildings and grass land on Sunshine Avenue in Kealba on Thursday, November 14. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) crews were called to the blaze at 7.40pm following reports of a large column of smoke emanating from the Sunshine Road area. Firefighters arrived on scene within six minutes to find a fire covering 100 x 50 metres involving multiple portable buildings and grass land. Additional resources were called for due to the large area involved in fire. Crews attacked the fire on multiple fronts and were able to bring it under control at 8.23pm.

Mental health support

The state government has announced three new programs as part of the $200 million Schools Mental Health Menu, providing targeted mental health support for students when and where they need it most. The Mental Health Menu is designed for schools to select evidence-based programs, support staff and resources which enables schools to select the mental health tools that best match the unique needs of their student cohorts. Through the menu, schools can book trusted services in areas such as social and emotional learning, mental health literacy and eating disorders.

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

Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Brighton Beach Primary School student Anastasia Diamantara at the Message in a Bottle installation at Scienceworks. (Supplied)

Proposal for free buses

By Gerald Lynch

Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank is urging the state government to overhaul Melbourne’s struggling public transport system with a focus on buses.

Arguing that the western suburbs’ bus networks are in desperate need of rerouting, more frequent services, and a trial of free fares, Mr Ettershank has tabled a motion in Parliament seeking immediate reform.

He emphasised that while Victoria’s public transport usage has declined 42 per cent from its 2018 peak, buses hold the potential to turn the system around without the hefty costs associated with new rail infrastructure.

“Buses are cost-effective and don’t require the construction of infrastructure like platforms or tram tracks,” he said. “The main problem is outdated routes that no longer meet the needs of our growing suburbs.”

Highlighting the inefficiency in current routes, Mr Ettershank notes that nearly half of Melbourne’s 400 bus lines serve fewer than 20 passengers per hour, with many routes “snaking around suburbia” rather than providingdirectservicetomajordestinations.

He is advocating for a network that prioritises limited-stop buses along main roads to serve critical locations such as universities, industrial areas, and entertainment hubs.

The proposal includes a 12-month free bus trial to ease the cost of living and gather data on usage.

According to Infrastructure Victoria, each dollar reduction in bus fares increases ridership by almost 20 per cent, and a full bus could potentially replace 50 cars, alleviating traffic congestion and emissions.

Ambo times stagnate

Average code one response time from paramedics in Brimbank has stagnated in the last 12 months, but sits below the target time, according to the latest Ambulance Victoria data.

Ambulance Victoria’s performance results for July to September, 2024, showed the average response time for code one ’lights and sirens’ cases in Brimbank was 14.26 minutes, slightly up from 14.23 minutes for the same period in 2023.

Despite a marginal decrease, it keeps the average response time for code one cases in Brimbank below the 15 minute target time.

There were 3279 code one ambulance call outs to Brimbank during the three months to September.

Paramedics across Victoria responded to 68.2 per cent of code one cases within thetargetof15minutes,upfrom62.4per cent a year earlier.

Brimbank’s results were above state average,with69.8percentofambulances responding to code one cases within 15 minutes, compared to 69.3 per cent at the same time last year.

Morethan3000localshavesignedaFriends of the Earth petition for at least $100 million in additional operational and capital funding to reform the bus network by 2026.

Mr Ettershank also highlighted that new electric buses are already on order for Victoria, aligning with environmental goals.

In addition to cost savings, he believes improved buses would benefit people who are less likely to own cars, like students and the elderly, and enhance connections for communities currently underserved by infrequent or non-existent services.

“Better bus routes and free, frequent services would take Victoria back to being a public transport powerhouse with a network that services the people who need it,” he said. “It’s time we get back on buses.”

Metropolitan regional director Vanessa Gorman said if your matter is not an emergency, consider using alternative care options and keep our highly skilled paramedics available for patients most in need.

“This includes the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED), Urgent Care Clinics and other options such as your GP or pharmacist, or Nurse-On-Call on 1300 60 60 24.”

Western Metro MP David Ettershank is calling for a reform on buses. (Supplied)

Melbourne Disability & WorkAbility Expo

At the Melbourne Disability & WorkAbility Expo you can discover a diverse range of exhibitors showcasing the latest products, services and employment options designed to improve the lives of people with disabilities. From cuttingedge technology and adaptive equipment to healthcare services and educational resources, there's something for everyone.

We are very excited to have Ellie Cole as our Expo Ambassador this year. Ellie will be on stage at the Expo from 11am, Friday 22nd November 2024.

The Melbourne Disability Expo is the first event to integrate the Melbourne WorkAbility Expo.

WorkAbility Expos are funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services, and designed to help people with disabilities find meaningful employment.

At the Melbourne Workability Expo, you’ll find a variety of activities to support your employment journey. Here’s what you can expect:

• WorkAbility Consultation Lounge: Meet potential employers who believe in inclusivity and are eager to discover your talents.

• Practical workshops: Participate in workshops to get you job-ready and provide advice on how to start your own business.

• Support services: Support services

to help you get into the workforce. From training organisations to dedicated service providers, we provide you the opportunity to find the help to support you on your employment journey.

• Networking opportunities: You’ll have the chance to connect with employers who are committed to inclusive hiring practices and support services who are there to help you along the way.

• Learn from your peers: You will get to meet people with disability who have started their own business or who are already in the workforce.

• Workplace accommodations: Learn how to access workplace accommodations to ensure a safe and supportive work environment.

• Resources: Lots of resources to help you find and keep a job.

• Legal rights information: Knowledge about your rights in the workplace and how to advocate for yourself.

• Funding information: Knowledge about what funding is available to support you in the workplace.

The Melbourne Disability & WorkAbility Expo offers a wide array of Exhibitors offering services such as mobility aids, home modifications, accessible travel options, financial advice, employment services and more. It's a one-stop shop for enhancing your quality of life. Enjoy the ease of having everything under one

roof so you can spend your day gathering information and making connections all in a single, convenient venue. Experience an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere where everyone is valued and respected. Our event is designed to be fully accessible, ensuring that all attendees can comfortably participate and engage with exhibitors and activities.

Don't miss out on this exciting integrated event! With interactive exhibits, engaging presentations, and opportunities to

network with others in the disability community, our expo promises to be an inspiring and empowering experience. Join us and be part of a supportive community that celebrates diversity and inclusion.

Melbourne Disability & WorkAbility Expo, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre 22nd & 23rd Nov www.melbournedisabilityexpo.com.au and www.workabilityexpo.com.au

Taranto’s long road to recovery

By Cade Lucas

One of the hallmarks of the rise of women’s sport over the last decade, is the sense that it is different.

Rather than just men’s sport played by the opposite sex, female competitions attract a different crowd, have a different atmosphere and a different sensibility.

Another somewhat less positive difference though, is the disparity in injury rates between male and female athletes, particularly in the football codes.

Put simply, female footballers get more injuries, more often, especially knees, and especially knees where the dreaded anterior-cruciate ligament (or ACL’s as they’re known in sporting parlance) are ruptured.

One of the most debilitating injuries in all of sport, ACL’s require a full reconstruction of the knee and require roughly nine months to recover from, ending the season of those who suffer them.

Sports medicine specialist, Dr David Bolzonello, works with both the men’s and women’s teams at A-League club Western United.

He said the difference in the rate of ACL’s suffered across the two teams was stark.

“We’ve had an ACL per season (two) in the girls and we’ve had two in five (seasons) for the men,” said Dr Bolzonello who added that this disparity wasn’t just confined to soccer.

“Thereisahigherincidence,acrossallsports,

of anterior cruciate ruptures and that’s got to do with predominantly the anatomy of the femalehipandpelvisandthetendencythenfor thekneetodropinwardsinchangeofdirection moments.”

One of the two United players to have ruptured an ACL since its women’s team was established in 2023, is Adriana Taranto, who is nearing a return to action after sustaining the injury during pre-season training in March.

“Rehab has been going well,” said Taranto who praised the the club for its support.

“From the beginning I had the best people around me to ensure I was getting everything I needed both physically and mentally to get through this tough time.

“I have been highly motivated to get back to paying as safely and quickly as possible and everythinghasbeengoingwellsofar,hopefully I’mnottoofarawayfrombeingbackoutonthe pitch.”

Taranto has been working with Dr Bolzonello and United’s physio and strength and condition staff during her rehab, often alongside players from the men’s team also recovering from injury.

She said while their respective treatments were largely the same, the differences between male and female players in recovering from ACL’s and other injuries, weren’t physiological.

“The only difference is the fact that the men are full-time, so they are seen by a physio or strength and conditioning coach pretty much every day,” said Taranto, who like her teammates and the rest of the women’s A-League, isn’t fully professional.

“Even when the main team travel for games or don’t have training for some reason, those injured players or even players who need top ups will still come in and have a session, that is something we don’t have the luxury of doing as we are part-time,” said Taranto, who works as a school teacher when not wearing United’s black and green.

While research is being done into how to reduce the higher incidence of knee and other injuries in female athletes compared to men, Dr Bolzonello agreed that economics were also part of the solution.

“I hope that our game evolves to where the club has the resources to look after these girls as full time professional athletes.”

Bringing together our vibrant North West communities, our open day will showcase the very best of Lifestyle Communities®

Enjoy complimentary coffee and food trucks while you explore our stunning display homes and take a guided tour of our state-of-the-art clubhouses. Our friendly homeowners and Lifestyle team will be on hand to answer any questions and share what makes these communities truly special. Lifestyle Deanside | 85 Mushu Street, Deanside Lifestyle Woodlea | 17 Tranquil Road, Aintree

Lifestyle Deanside | Indoor pool

Lifestyle Woodlea | Clubhouse

Western United midfielder Adriana Taranto is nearing a return from a serious knee injury. (Supplied)

New Councillors sworn in

Council has welcomed 10 Councillors who have been elected to represent our residents for the next four years.

Cr Julie Shannon (re-elected) Stringybark Ward

Cr Sophie Ramsey (re-elected) Watts Ward

Cr Bob Turner (re-elected) Cambrian Ward

Cr Brandi Morris Coolibah Ward

The Mayor and Deputy Mayor will be elected at a Statutory Council Meeting this Thursday 21 November commencing at 7pm.

Members of the public can attend the election or livestream it via Council’s website.

Cr John Verdon Hilltop Ward

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg (re-elected) Jackwood Ward

Cr Lara Carli (re-elected) Sugar Gum Ward

Cr Kathy Majdlik (re-elected) Lake Caroline Ward

Cr Steve Abboushi (re-elected) Bullum Bullum Ward

Cr Phillip Zada Mount Atkinson Ward

Fire Danger Period declared

The Fire Danger Period for the City of Melton commenced on Monday 18 November.

Following a drier-than-average autumn and winter, residents are encouraged to be vigilant with fire preparation and clear any overgrown vegetation from their properties.

Property owners are prohibited from lighting fires without a permit during the Fire Danger Period. Burn-offs must be registered online at the Fire Permits Victoria website, firepermits.vic.gov.au, or by calling Triple Zero Victoria on 1800 668 511.

Residents can drop off their green waste at the Melton recycling facility for free until 15 January.

For information visit melton.vic.gov.au/gardenwaste

Community Grants & Funding Programs now open

Community groups and individuals in the City of Melton are encouraged to apply for Council’s Community Grants or Funds, all year round.

The following grant and funding programs are available to eligible applicants:

• Community Grantscommunity groups, clubs or not-for profit organisations with an idea or activity that benefits the community.

• New Groups Fund – support for new clubs, groups or associations requiring assistance with set-up costs.

• FairGo 4 Youth Fund –support to assist disadvantaged young people to participate in local extra-curricular activities.

• Resident Achievement Fund – support for individuals who have been selected to participate in state, national and international activities.

The next round of Community Grantscloseon31December2024. Other Community Funds grants can be applied for at any time.

For information and to apply, visit melton.vic.gov.au/communitygrants or contact our Community Grants & Awards Team via communitygrants@melton.vic.gov.au or 9747 7247.

Carols by Candlelight 2024

A special screening of the Grinch Christmas Movie will kick-off the event, followed by community performances and carols. There will be market stalls, food trucks, face painting and of course the opportunity to meet Santa! For information and to view the program, visit melton.vic.gov.au/carols

Djerriwarrh Festival this Saturday!

Don’t forget to join us this Saturday 23 November for the Djwerriwarrh Festival and experience a day of family-friendly activities and entertainment in Melton.

The Street Parade will kick-off the festival at 11.30am with floats, dances and costumes galore along High Street (between Station Road and Smith Street).

From 12pm, High Street and Melton Recreational Reserve will be a hive of activity with live music, market stalls, food trucks, a pet expo and vibrant intercultural performances on the Main Stage.

The Main Stage will continue pumping into the evening with live acts including The Superjesus, Bachelor Girl, Sara Berki and Charlie Needs Braces from 5pm.

Fireworks will cap off the festival with a dazzling display set for 9pm (weather permitting).

To view the program, visit djerriwarrhfest.com.au

MY PLACE

As far as passionate locals go, Graeme Blore is as driven as they come. He has been outspoken about transport and fire issues in the area for some time, and he chats to Gerald Lynch about what pushes him to advocate for change.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?

My name is Graeme Blore. I am now retired after spending the last few decades of my career working with youth and refugee families, to make the most of my Masters in Counselling.

What’s your connection to Brimbank?

My wife and I have been part of the Brimbank community for 19 wonderful years. We’ve truly made it our home and cherish the vibrant, welcoming spirit of our neighbourhood.

What do you like about where you live?

The west is full of life and diversity, offering an incredible array of food, beautiful parks, and natural beauty. It’s a place where different cultures come together, creating a rich and dynamic community.

What would you change about where you live?

Our community in the west could really benefit from additional resources and facilities, especially public transport. We face long wait times for buses—sometimes up to 40 minutes - and the routes are limited. Sunshine Hospital is a fantastic, modern facility, but incredibly the only bus route that serves it travels from Highpoint to St Albans station. So, if you’re comingfromArdeer,(a10minutedrive)getting to the hospital can take around an hour with a combination of bus and train, plus a 10-minute walk. Our proximity to Melbourne Airport is a great asset, as we’re only 15-25 minutes away by car. However, public transport options to the airport take around 1.5 to 2 hours each way.

A direct bus service from Sunshine station to Melbourne Airport would be a tremendous improvement and make a big difference for many in our community. The business precinct there are calling out for a bus service from Sunshine.

On the recreational front, our local parks could use more diverse facilities. Cairnlea’s main reserve, for instance, has a wonderful large dog park and a small playground for young children, but it lacks other amenities like basketball courts, skateparks, and tennis or volleyball courts. Adding these types of facilities would provide valuable and inclusive activity options for our youth and help foster a more engaged and active community.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

Brimbank Park is our go-to spot. It’s such a peaceful escape from city life, and the Lumbar Cafe there serves up some amazing food. It’s a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of our area.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you?

I’m a passionate motorbike enthusiast with 54 years of riding experience. I’ve had the chance to explore amazing places, including a 12-day adventurethroughsouthernSpainandMorocco with fellow Triumph riders. Currently, I’m enjoying rides on my 2021 Indian Challenger wheneverIcan.It’safantasticwaytoexperience the freedom of the open road!

Graeme Blore. (Damjan Janevski) 428204_01

Premium new estate, Taylors Rise, launches in Deanside

TaylorsRiseDeansideisanewlandestatenow

selling premium lots with pricing starting at $345,000, brought to you by the developers of Taylors Hill.

The land lots in the current Stage 1A release range from 350m2 to 581m2 and are conveniently positioned close to the established amenity of Taylors Hill and Caroline Springs.

From local parks and walking trails to schools, shops and public transport, life’s essentials will be within easy reach at Taylors Rise. The Caroline Springs Train Station and town centre are only minutes away, as is the City Vista Pavilion and Sports Field – a $13 million facility featuring two synthetic fields and one grass field.

Further afield, Watergardens Shopping Centreishometomajorretailers,moredining options and Hoyts Cinemas, while driving to the CBD takes just 45 minutes. A bus stop will be located right on the estate’s doorstep on Taylors Road, making public transport easy and accessible.

Taylors Rise itself has education and recreation at its heart. Families will love the convenience of a future new primary school, community centre, local commercial centre and 2.2ha sports reserve planned for the centre of the estate, set to bring the community together and enhance the lifestyle of local residents.

Along with the sports reserve, getting outside and active is made easy with local parks, a waterway reserve, and hectares of conservation reserves featuring walking and cycling tracks connected to the estate. The surrounding area is also a hub of education, with high quality childcare, kindergartens, primary and secondary schools catering for learning and potential at every age.

Taylors Rise is set to be a welcome addition

to

KEILOR RETIREMENT VILLAGE MARKET DAY

the community, as it caters for the growing local population and adds additional amenity to the area.

Stage 1A has just launched with high demand. For stock availability and more, visit taylorsrise.com.au, or call Sergio Masini on

0437 638 334 with any enquiries. The sales office is open 11am–5pm 7 days a week at 766 Taylors Road, Taylors Hill.

Bypass the ATAR for success, health and happiness

Currently, a quarter of a million Australian students are overwhelmed by the high-stakes pressure of Year 12 exams—an outdated system that promises to “define their future”, but at what cost?

Peter Hutton is the executive director at Global Village Learning, a highly progressive school in the Macedon Ranges.

This exam season, Peter urges education providers and policymakers to reimagine the ranking system and empower students to thrive beyond the limitations of the ATAR.

“Let’s champion transparency, wellbeing, and genuine learning opportunities that do not hinge on a ranked, scored VCE,” he said.

“For two years, teachers focus solely on exam preparation, students sacrifice sleep for late-night cramming, and a booming market of professional tutors caters to families who can afford them. This singular focus has now filtered down, with elements replicated even within the upper primary years.

“This cycle breeds anxiety, stress, and a misconception that exam success will shape one’s entire life.”

Mounting evidence shows that the ATAR systemisincreasinglyirrelevantforuniversity entry with less than 20 per cent of all new undergraduates relying on their ATAR for entry.

The relentless pressure of Year 12 exams seepsintofamilylifeandstrainsthewellbeing of students. Research from Professor Viviana Wuthrich of Macquarie University found that 31 per cent of students showed signs of severe stress, and 26 per cent displayed symptoms of severe depression.

“As a parent, I felt like I lost my kids to the stress of Year 12 exams. For three years, their evenings were consumed with endless studying—a sacrifice that should never be a necessary part of growing up.”

Global Village Learning (GVL) is a learner-led, Montessori-inspired community that nurtures autonomy, creativity, and real-world problem-solving.

GVL is pioneering a new approach: Ignore the ATAR. Focus on what actually matters for

your future, sidestep the ATAR and scored VCE completely. In 2025, GVL is opening the Pathways and Futures Hub, a senior program focused on building confidence, entrepreneurship and citizenship skills in young adults - qualities that are well aligned

with a rapidly changing world of work. Enrolments are now open to young people aged between 15-20 who want to unlock a future of choice, possibility, and growth. Find out more at gvl.vic.edu.au/ pathwaysfutures/

Hitting pancaretic cancer for six

By Tara Murray

The local cricket community is coming out in force to raise funds and awareness of pancreatic cancer.

The inaugural PanKind Power Play T20 event will be held on November 24, where Yarraville Club will face the Western Colts in a T20 match at Hansen Reserve.

Clubbers captain-coach Mitch Johnstone came up with the idea of the fundraiser after his father Michael Johnstone was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer earlier this year.

Michael, who helped set up the Hillside Football Club, was also a keen cricketer.

Mitch said they wanted to help raise funds with this type of cancer not as well known

as others.

“It’saboutbringingpeopletogether,”hesaid.

“Whatever funds we can raise for PanKind is really good and can help others out.

“PanKind has got behind it

The stars of Yarraville Club will be in action on the day, while other positions will be auctioned off to raise funds, which will all be donated to PanKind.

The Colts was the old Sunday team of MichaelJohnstone.Someofhisoldteammates including Tarek Moughanie and Craig Berger will play in the charity match, along with former West Indian Darrel Brown.

Some of those players have played with both Johnstones.

Mitch said there would be plenty of

Young writers workshop

Award-winningauthorAlicePungisreturning to the west where she grew up to lead an autobiographical writing workshop.

Young writers and creatives from the west aged 18-30 will be guided through the principles of drawing on their own lived experiences in writing.

Pung, whose own memoirs such as ‘Growing Up Asian in Australia’ and ‘Unpolished Gem’ have earned her wide acclaim, will coach participants through various writing styles to unlock their personal stories.

Delivered by Western Edge as part of its OpenPageWorkshopSeries,thefreeworkshop issuitableforanyone,whethertheyareaspiring novelists or just having their first go at writing.

Designed to inspire diverse voices and encourage budding storytellers to find their voices, the program will provide a supportive, low-pressure environment that hopes to push boundaries.

Western Edge executive director Georgia Naidu performed in the Melbourne Theatre Company’s stage adaptation of Pung’s ‘Laurinda’ in 2022.

“I have personally experienced Alice’s work changing the lives of young, marginalised people, and I can’t believe how lucky we are to have Alice coming in to work with our community,’ she said.

“Writing workshops usually come with a fee attached and they demand a level of writing experience. Open Page is as unique as our young artists of the west. It is free, and no writing experience is required.”

The workshop will be held at the Tarneit Community Learning Centre between 6-9pm on Wednesday, November 20.

Jaidyn Kennedy

activities on the day to cater for all ages and to raise some money.

“There will be some games to get people involved,” he said. “We’ll have like a Woolworths Blast at half time and we’ll have hitting the signs like in the old Mercantile Mutual Cup and people have to donate if they hit them.

“There will be an auction with some Bradman memorabilia and Cricket Victoria has donated some signed Melbourne Renegades shirts.

Mitch said they were hoping to make this an annual match.

A barbecue will be held from noon and the match will start at 1pm.

Donate: https://tinyurl.com/2wfw29sb

Bold festival fun in St Albans

St Albans was a hive of colour last weekend as the annual Be Bold Festival returned to town.

The Bowery Theatre and the St Albans Community Centre hosted host a number of activities for the entire family to enjoy, with a focusoncelebratingthearts,culture,creativity, and the people of Melbourne’s west.

Therewerepaintingsessions,music,markets, cultural performances, fashion and food.

Also joining in the celebrations were the Giant Puppets of the West, created by Snuff Puppets.

Puppet facilitator Lachlan Plain said while the puppets have featured at the festival previously, this is the first time all groups they work with will be represented.

Snuff Puppets has worked with multiple cultural groups to create many puppets that represent different cultures within the west.

Uncle Shane Charles conducted a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, while there was also a very special performance by the renowned Djirri Djirri Dancers.

The Fops by Born in a Taxi roved around the festival. (Pictures: Carla Gottgens)

Polynesian dancers wowed the crowd.

Top: An Indian drummer performs at the Be Bold Festival. Above: Festival-goers joined in the dancing fun.

Acclaimed author Alice Pung will be leading a workshop for young writers. (Supplied)

Michael Johnstone (front) with some of stars of Yarraville Club. (Supplied)

Eggnog is a creamy, rich beverage traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season. Its origins are thought to date back to medieval Europe, where people drank “posset,” a warm, spiced milkdrinkwithwineorale.Overtime,eggnog developed into the creamy, custard-based drinkweknowtoday,oftenflavoredwithwarm spices and occasionally spiked with alcohol. Eggnog is made with milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Some recipes include alcohol, like rum, brandy, or bourbon, while others keep it non-alcoholic. The drink has a unique flavor that combines sweetness with the warmth of spices and the richness of eggs, making it a comforting holiday treat.

Basic Eggnog Recipe

Here’s a simple, classic recipe to make eggnog at home. This recipe makes about 4-6 servings.

Ingredients

4 large eggs (or just the yolks if you prefer)

1 cup granulated sugar

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus more for garnish)

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)

Optional: ½ - 1 cup rum, brandy, or bourbon, depending on your preference

Method

Beat the eggs and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs (or egg yolks) and sugar together until smooth and creamy. This mixture should become pale yellow and increase in volume slightly.

Warm the milk mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat the mixture gently, stirring constantly to prevent scorching, until it’s warm but not boiling (about 70°C).

Temper the eggs: To avoid curdling, you’ll need to “temper” the egg mixture.

Gradually add about ¼ cup of the warm milk mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly. Continue adding the warm milk slowly until about half has been incorporated. This will raise the temperature of the eggs gradually.

Cook the eggnog: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk and cook over low heat.

Stir constantly until the mixture thickens slightly (around 77°C) and can coat the back of a spoon. Avoid boiling, as it can cause the mixture to curdle.

Add alcohol (optional): If you’re adding alcohol, mix in your preferred spirit (rum, brandy, or bourbon) once the eggnog has thickened and removed it from the heat.

Chill and serve: Allow the eggnog to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill. The flavours will meld as it sits. Serve in cups or mugs, and sprinkle a little extra nutmeg or cinnamon on top for garnish. Enjoy!

Eggnog can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, though fresh is best for the best flavour and texture.

TIPS AND VARIATIONS

For extra creaminess: You can add an extra ½ cup of heavy cream for a richer texture.

Non-alcoholic version: Simply omit the alcohol. For extra flavour, try adding a bit of almond extract along with the vanilla.

Spice adjustments: Adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to your liking or add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth.

Frothy topping: Whip some heavy cream and add a dollop on top of each serving for an even creamier finish.

Eggnog is a versatile drink that can be tailored to personal preferences, whether spiked with your favorite spirit or made extra thick and creamy. Enjoy it cold or slightly warmed as a comforting holiday treat.

A patch of grassland paradise

In the heart of Sunbury sits a grassland considered to be the best left in Melbourne, as Oscar Parry discovered.

What might first appear as an overgrown paddock in the middle of Sunbury, the Evans Street Grassland isconsideredthe“crownjewel”ofMelbourne’s grasslands, and is a sanctuary for native and endangered flora and fauna.

This is part of the message Grassy Plains Network facilitator Adrian Marshall wants to impart.

“It really is like a living museum in a way. We’re down to only one per cent of our grasslands left, and most of that one per cent isn’t nearly as good as what you find at Evans Street,” Mr Marshall said.

Not appearing too visually attractive from a distance, he said the beauty of the site is what you see once you are among the vegetation.

“I use the analogy of snorkelling – it’s like when you’re standing there on the beach or knee-high in the water, all you see is water, but as soon as you put on your mask and put your face down underneath the water, suddenly … you see all of this amazing stuff,” he said.

About 10,000 years old and forming in the previous ice age, the Evans Street Grassland is rich with native flora and fauna species, with many at risk of local extinction.

“Ithas,Ithink,150orsospeciespresentthere

… and a dozen or two dozen that are listed as threatened under state or federal nature laws … if we lost Evans Street Grassland, there would be 17 species that would no longer be found in the City of Hume … it just shows how fragile the thing is,” Mr Marshall said.

He said Victoria’s grasslands are mostly found on the Victorian Volcanic Plain – a largeareaofabout500volcanoesthatstretches from the Yarra River to the South Australian border

“Sunbury is a volcano. Often they don’t look particularly like massive Mount Etna things or anything.”

Dominated by Kangaroo Grass, a sign of a healthy grassland, he said other key flora species include Wallaby Grass, Spear Grass, Silky Bluegrass, and rare species of Pelargonium, Pimelea, rice flowers, pea flowers, and more.

He said a botanist walked through the site about 30 years ago and was amazed by what he saw, writing to the government to advocate for its protection – with a local environment group soon joining in on its protection.

Despite this, Mr Marshall said there were attempts to develop the site, including a proposal for a car park.

The site is now permanently protected by a Trust for Nature conservation covenant.

“It’s got a nice fence with [no] gates, you can just walk in … there’s a nice sign that tells you all sorts of good stuff about it. There’s a nice bench you can sit on, you can have your lunch there. It’s just incredibly inviting … all of that just tells people that this is an important place, there’s value here,” Mr Marshall said.

With the introduction of sheep and cattle to Australia, much of Victoria’s native grasslands were decimated.

“When John Batman arrived here in 1835, his surveyors and explorers basically saw incredibly lush pastures all the way to the border and there was a grass rush. So within 16 years of John Batman arriving, there were 16 million sheep in Victoria,” Mr Marshall said.

“Theyjustthrivedonthisbeautifulgrassland, but they also ate it all, they brought in weeds, they compacted the soil, and there were a whole lot of cascading things that happened because of that. So now the grasslands that we have are pretty much the most endangered ecosystem in Victoria,” he said.

However, he said livestock held intermittently at the Evans Street site “accidentally” maintained it by preventing excess thatch.

“Grass doesn’t get rid of its dead leaves, it just keeps growing new leaves. So all those dead leaves can get thicker and thicker, and when that thatch gets so thick, it can stop light and water getting down to those thick tussock

spaces between the tussocks. And that means all the [flowers] aren’t getting the light and water they need … and when they die out, they leave a weed-shaped hole, and weeds can come in ... and then the whole cycle can go to hell, pretty much,” he said.

One third of the Evans Street site is burnt eachyeartodistributetheeffectsonsectionsof the land, with a large increase in native flowers booming in the months following a burn.

Mr Marshall said thatalong with these appeals, grasslands “punch above their weight” in storing carbon and can absorb water, promote pollination, and clean the air –all contributing to “urban resilience.”

He said species at the Sunbury site could be hundreds of years old, with a dense and branched out root system under the ground.

Mr Marshall held a tour at the site with the Victorian National Parks Association on Wednesday, November 13.

The entrance to the Evans Street Grassland is adjacent to Timins Street in Sunbury –but tread carefully as you walk through this important site.

‘‘ If we lost Evans Street Grassland, there would be 17 species that would no longer be found in the City of Hume … it just shows how fragile the thing is ’’ - Adrian Marshall

Grassy Plains Network facilitator Adrian Marshall at the Evans Street Grassland.

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski). 443458

Recapping 16 days of action

As Zonta Clubs throughout the world fulfil an extensive and thought-provoking calendar of events throughout their 16 Days of Activism Campaign to eliminate violence against women, it is interesting to look back on how this event came about.

From Monday, November 25 to Tuesday, December 10, communities will come together with the encouragement and organisation of these Zonta Clubs for specialist days including A Day of Envisioning, A Day of Knowledge, a Day of Remembrance, A Day of Listening, A Day of Allyship, A Day of Advocacy and of course A Day of Orange as the colour orange symbolises a brighter future, free from violence and is the colour for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

The history behind the 16 Days of Activism is both compelling and heartbreaking with the International Women’s Development Agency

On November 25, 1960, sisters Patria, Minerva and Maria Teresa Mirabal, three political activists who actively opposed the crueltyandsystematicviolenceoftheTrujillo dictatorship in the Dominican Republic, were clubbed to death and dumped at the bottom of a cliff by Trujillo’s secret police.

The Mirabal sisters became symbols of the feminist resistance, and in commemoration of their deaths, November 25 was declared International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women in Latin America in 1980.

This international day was formally

recognised by the United Nations in 1999.

In June 1991, the Centre for Women’s Global Leadership (CWGL), alongside participants of the first Women’s Global Institute on Women, Violence and Human Rights, called for a global campaign of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

The 16 days begins with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and ends with International Human Rights Day on 10 December– highlighting thatviolenceagainstwomenisafundamental violation of human rights.

A far cry from Australia, but the sisters’ legacy has reached all corners of the globe and kicks off the 16 days of activism calls for an end to violence against women.

The dates for the campaign were chosen to link violence against women and human rights and emphasise that gender-based violence against women is a violation of human rights.

Zonta Says NO to Violence Against Women began in November 2012 and Zonta International’s ongoing efforts to end violence against women and girls at the international level are carried out through the Zonta’s International Service Program and through Zonta’s partnerships with the United Nations and its agencies.

Since the program’s inception in 1999, more than US$32.7 million has been provided to support projects to improve women’s health, provide better economic opportunities and prevent gender-based violence in 66 countries.

See what the others don’t

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When it comes to property, with view.com.au you see all.

Auction Saturday 30th November at 12 noon 10% deposit balance 30 days

• This three bedroom brick veneer home in need of major repair. • Renovate with a little care and imagination, build your dream home or potential development site (STCA), the choice is yours.

• Offering huge potential and numerous possibilities. • Large allotment measuring approx. 554m2.

• Situated close to Norm Talintyre Reserve (approx. 800 meters), The Avenue Shopping Centre (approx. 1 kms), Talintyre Road Shops (approx. 800 metres), numerous schools & public transport. Also excellent access to the Western Ring Road (approx. 2.5 kms) RENOVATE OR DETONATE!

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

National seniors meeting

On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at The Club in Caroline Springs, with meals available to purchase. They also hold lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more.

 0425 713 004 or

lesley1.collins@outlook.com

Learn to Relax Group

IPC Health’s Living Well team is running a free Learn to Relax Group at IPC Health Deer Park, 106 Station Road, every Tuesday at 11am. This group is for people over 18 years who are interested in learning how to relax and finding ways to effectively manage their stress. Registration is required to attend this group.

 livingwell@ipchealth.com.au or 1300 472 432

Women’s only conversation English

Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to make friends, learn new skills and practice English in this fun and free women’s social group. Tuesdays during school terms, 9.30am-noon, at Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.

 9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au

Crafternoons

Duke Street Community House is inviting locals to a free adult social opportunity to get together and be creative. Learn a new craft or bring along your own craft projects. Tuesdays during school terms, 12.30-2.30pm, at the Duke Street Community House, 27 Duke Street, Sunshine.

 9311 9973, or dukest@dsch.org.au

Musicians Wanted

Westgate Concert Band is seeking new members. Do you play Woodwind, Brass or Percussion and are looking for a welcoming place to play enjoyable and challenging music? Rehearsals held Saturday mornings during school terms, 9am to noon, at Braybrook College.

 westgateconcertband@gmail.com

Sunshine Heights Junior Soccer Club

The club is on the lookout for more girls to join its junior soccer teams from ages under-8s through to under-14. If you are keen to join, training is held every Tuesday and Thursday at Castley Reserve from 5.30pm – except for under-14 girls who train from 6.30pm.

 theclub@sunshineheightsjsc.com.au

Girl Guides

Brimbank District Girl Guides is inviting locals to come and try guides before committing to join. Girls aged 5-18 and adults are invited to enjoy the fun and friendship of guiding.

 Carolyn, 0418 536 084

Sunshine Repair Cafe

Do you enjoy fixing things or have skills in mending clothing and textiles? Kororoit Neighbourhood House is looking for volunteer repairers for the newly launched Repair Café in Brimbank. Events happen once a month and are an opportunity to meet others in the community and share your skills while helping fix broken household items.

 sunshinerepaircafe@kcnh.org.au, or 0413 434 082

Al-Anon Family Groups

Al-Anon Family Groups is offering help and hope to anyone living in an unhappy home because a loved one drinks too much. There are no contracts to sign, just

a voluntary donation to cover room rental. Confidentiality is protected. Confidential meetings held at the Sydenham Neighbourhood Centre (rear of library) every Wednesday, from 1-2.30pm. New members welcome. No appointment necessary.

Kealba Car Meet

A typical first Sunday of each month in Kealba is a coffee and a car meet. The event has a strict no hooning policy, with car lovers of all ages encouraged to come down and enjoy the spectacle. Held in the car park of the Kealba Milkbar Convenience and Cafe, 29 Driscolls Road, from noon to 2pm, with the next meeting on Sunday, December 1.

Card games

Love playing the card game 500? Card games are played every Monday, from 7-10pm, at the Sunshine RSL offices, 99 Dickson Street, Sunshine.  Leisa, 0425 768 808

Keilor Day View Club

The Keilor Day View Club meets at 11am on the first Thursday of each month at Green Gully Soccer Club, Green Gully Reserve, Club House Place, Keilor Downs. The club is inviting locals to come along and enjoy a meal and fun with a friendly group of ladies.

 Robyn, 0425 387 880

Palliative volunteers needed

Mercy Palliative Care is looking for volunteers to visit palliative care patients in their homes to offer social support.

 9313 5700 or MPCVolunteerCoordinators@mercy.com.au

Deer Park Lions Club

Deer Park Lions Club is looking for new members. It holds dinner meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at the Deer Park Senior Citizens Club, 119 Station Road, Deer Park.

 Michael, 0417 307 572

Sunshine Community Brass

Sunshine Community Brass is looking for trumpet and percussion players to join its vibrant band of musicians. With more than 90 years of history, the band rehearses at 45 Furlong Road, North Sunshine, on Tuesdays, from 7.30pm.

 Andrew, 0419 444 620

St Albans senior citizens

St Albans Senior Citizens group meet at the centre at the corner of Alfrieda and William streets, St Albans, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 9am-2pm.

Annual membership: $10. Cost: $1 entry on attendance day.

 Roma, 0435 991 064

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

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 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 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

This week’s photographer’s choice is of Newport performer Donna Jackson who has a new cabaret show. (Damjan Janevski) 442708_01

Djerriwarrh Fest makes a return

The City of Melton’s biggest family festival is back with a bang when Djerriwarrh Festival returns on Saturday, November 23, with its family-friendlyvibesandjam-packedschedule.

Celebrations will kick off with the annual Djerriwarrh Festival Street Parade at 11.30am withfloatsanddancesandcostumesgaloreand continue until 9pm when, weather permitting, thefestivalconcludeswithadazzlingfireworks display.

From noon, High Street will spring into life with live music, market stalls, food trucks, and many more activities to keep the kids and the family entertained.

The world comes to Melton as the city’s multicultural communities showcase their traditional dance and music with a series

of interactive and vibrant intercultural performances on the main stage.

Melton council chief executive Roslyn Wai saidthefestivalisjam-packedwithgreatthings to see and do for the whole family.

“With a colourful street parade, loads of market stalls, food trucks, activities, and an excitinglivemusicline-upitpromisestobefun and entertaining,” she said.

“This is a great chance to plan to meet up with friends and family to create some new memories at this much-loved local festival.’’

Along High Street, Melton’s intercultural communities will be showcasing traditional dance, food, and music while the more adventurous can meet local wildlife and even a dingo over at the pet expo.

There will be roving performers, art installations, and lots more happening throughout the day including the new fit and informed zone where local businesses and sports clubs will showcase their wares.

Sustainability Village is the place to go to find tips and tricks on how you can make the world a more sustainable place for the future.

Don’t miss the market stalls where you are sure to find something special to take home.

There are also plenty of options to tempt the taste buds with more than 20 different vendors specialising in a variety of food and drinks.

The Superjesus will be the headline act on the main stage in a line-up that also features Bachelor Girl, Sara Berki, and Charlie Needs Braces.

Williamstown to become dog town

Dogs will have their day at Commonwealth ReserveinWilliamstownonSunday,December 1.

It’swheretheRotaryClubofPointGellibrand will be holding its annual Dog Day in Dog Town event from 10am until 2pm.

An afternoon to be enjoyed by the whole family, not just the dog, the event consists of a dog parade and walk to Pier Farm and back, followed by dog competitions such as cutest dog, smallest dog, biggest dog, most obedient, best costume, best dressed, best tricks and best fairy dog.

There will even be competitions for the canine that most resembles their owner and

the one the most looks like a famous movie character.

All dog breeds are welcome, though they must be friendly and socialise well with other dogs.

“Bring your friends, kids and anyone who wants to show off their pooch at this event,” said Point Gellibrand Rotary Club’s Gael Meadowcraft encouraging Hobsons Bay locals and their dogs to come along.

Admission is $20 which includes entry to the dog parade and dog competitions as well as giveaways.

“There are lots of lovely grassy spots to relax, stalls and information regarding dog rescue

organisations and dog adoption agencies,” Ms Meadowcraft said.

A sausage sizzle will also be on offer and if they’re lucky, there might even be a snag or two for dogs as well as their owners.

All money raised from Dog Day in Dog Town will go towards the many local charities supported by Point Gellibrand Rotary.

There is more information on the Rotary Club of Pont Gellibrand Facebook page or by emailing: rotarypointgellibrand@gmail.com.

Tickets are available at: https://www. trybooking.com/CWGPG

Cade Lucas

Ceramics exhibition in the Macedon Ranges

The Old Auction House in Kyneton is hosting Buttlejorrk’s annual art show in conjunction with Macedon Ranges Potters, featuring the stunning work of local artists across pottery, ceramics, sculpture, and more.

The exhibition showcases the talent of several local artists from the two groups, with all works also for sale.

Pieces will include stoneware, raku, porcelain, sculpture, and ceramic pieces.

Old Auction House owner and gallery director Rhain DiPilla said that the exhibition presents a diverse range of styles, glazes and approaches.

“We love seeing … how each artist can sort of meld the same materials to very different finishes and outcomes and uses,” Ms DiPilla said.

Get festive at Point Cook

ShareinthejoyofChristmaswhenthe 18th annual Christmas at the Lakes makes its way back to Breezewater Reserve, Point Cook, on Saturday December 7

Between 4pm-10.30pm, guests will be treated to a series of performers, carolsandafiercedisplayoffireworks, as local residents, businesses and groups gather for one of the area’s biggest events of the year.

Those who want to be taken for a ride– in the good way– will be spoilt for choice with a series of amusement rides on offer for all ages and excitement thresholds.

Among the stars will be Point Cook’s own magnificent and multi-talented Taysha Farrugia, who is riding the momentum of her debut single ‘Fearless’.

The Cross Culture Choir will lead the carols because Christmas would not be Christmas without a choir, so have your singing voices ready. It will be gastronomy galore with food trucks and stalls treating taste buds to a variety of multicultural cuisines.

The sweet tooths in attendance will certainly not be neglected, with showbags available at the admin marquee.

Anyone who wants to help spread the holiday spirit and join the committee are invited to message Christmas at the Lakes on Facebook.

Entry is a gold coin donation, which helps ensure that Christmas at the Lakes can be enjoyed for years to come.

On-site parking will be available for $5 per car, with cash and card both being accepted.

More: www.facebook.com/ XmasattheLake

Jaidyn Kennedy

Connected with the exhibition, Macedon Ranges Potters will also launch their book titled The Potters Kitchen, featuring members’ favourite recipes and including photographs of their handmade plates, cups, and dinnerware at work.

Originally formed in 1976, Buttlejorrk is a collective of artists from Macedon Ranges and Sunbury, with the name Buttlejorrk referring to the area located to the west of Sunbury.

Buttlejorrk’s annual art show will run until Tuesday,December24andThePottersKitchen book will launch at an event on Saturday, November 30, from 2–4pm at the Old Auction House, 52-56 Mollison Street, Kyneton. Thevenueisopeneverydayfrom10am–4pm. Details: https://www.theoldauctionhouse. com.au/

The Cross Culture Choir will lead this year’s carols. (Supplied)

Point Gellibrand Rotary Club members Gillian Partington, Roger Goga, Gael Meadowcroft, Sally Jandric and Ron Coleman with their dogs ahead of their annual Dog Day in Dog Town event on December 1. (Damjan Janevski) 442321_03

The Old Auction House gallery owner Rhain DiPilla. (Damjan Janevski). 443499_05

Melton’s jam-packed Djerriwarrh is back with a bang.

BE ERECTED ON ANY OR EITHER OF THE SAID LOTS HEREBY TRANSFERRED ANY BUILDINGS OTHER THAN TWO DWELLING HOUSES WITH USUAL OUTBUILDINGS”

The applicant for the permit is: MR M P KLISANIN

The application reference number is: P455/2024

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at:

•WWW.BRIMBANK.VIC. GOV.AU/BUILDINGDEVELOPMENT/PLANNING/ ADVERTISED-PLANS •CONTACT CITY PLANNING ON 9249 4606 OR EMAIL info@brimbank.vic.gov.au, FOR A COPY TO BE POSTED

•BRIMBANK COMMUNITY AND CIVIC CENTRE, 301 HAMPSHIRE ROAD, SUNSHINE (Monday to Friday, 8:45am to 5:00pm)

The responsible authority will not decide on the application before: 04/12/2024

The Contact Officer is: Candy Chan, (9249 4598)

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority. Any comments received will be placed on the electronic file associated with this application and will be available for inspection.

An objection must be in writing and sent to the Brimbank City Council either:

•Online at www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/buildingdevelopment/planning/planning-permit-applications/ planning-permit -support-or-objection

• Email info@brimbank.vic.gov.au • By post to PO Box 70, Sunshine, Vic, 3020

•In person at Brimbank Community and Civic Centre, 301 Hampshire

PROPOSED DISCONTINUANCE AND TRANSFER TO COUNCIL OF ROAD AT 137235 SINCLAIRS ROAD DEANSIDE VICTORIA

PUBLIC NOTICE INVITING SUBMISSIONS UNDER SECTION 223

Melton City Council (“Council”), gives notice under section 206 and clause 3 of Schedule 10 of the Local Government Act 1989 (“the Act”) that Council proposes to discontinue and transfer to itself part of the road at 137-235 Sinclairs Road, Deanside Victoria, and being part of the land in certificate of title volume 11208 folio 537 and along with part of the hiatus land adjoining its eastern boundary shown enclosed by continuous thick lines and hatched on the plan below.

PROPOSED DECLARATION OF PUBLIC HIGHWAY

PUBLIC NOTICE INVITING SUBMISSIONS UNDER SECTION 223

Melton City Council (“Council”), pursuant to section 204(1) of the Local Government Act 1989 (“Act”) proposes to declare part of the road at 137-235 Sinclairs Road, Deanside Victoria and being part of the land contained in certificate of title volume 11208 folio 537 and part of the hiatus land adjoining its eastern boundary shown enclosed by continuous thick lines and hatched on the plan below, being a road in Council’s municipal district, to be a public highway for the purposes of the Act (“the proposal”).

Further information regarding the proposal can be obtained from Sian Rainford, on 9747 5764.

Any person may make a submission on the proposal. Any person wishing to make a submission must do so in writing by 25 November 2024.

Any person making a submission is entitled to request in the submission that the person wishes to appear in person, or to be represented by a person specified in the submission, at a meeting to be heard in support of that submission.

All submissions will be considered in accordance with section 223 of the Act.

Submissions should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, and can be hand delivered to Council’s Office at 232 High Street, Melton Victoria 3337 or posted to the following address:

The Chief Executive Officer City of Melton PO Box 21

Melton Victoria 3337

All submissions will be considered in accordance with section 223 of the Act. No further community consultation process will be undertaken.

Any person making a submission is entitled to request in the submission that the person wishes to appear in person, or to be represented by a person specified in the submission, at a meeting to be heard in support of that submission.

Any person requesting to appear in person or to be represented by a person specified in his or her submission will be notified of the day, time and place of the meeting of the Council or of a committee determined by the Council to hear submissions.

Following consideration of submissions, Council may resolve not to discontinue the road or to discontinue the road and either sell the land from that road or retain the land.

ROSLYN WAI Chief Executive Officer

Melton Victoria 3337

Any person requesting to appear in person or to be represented by a person specified in his or her submission will be notified of the day, time and place of the meeting of the Council or of a committee determined by the Council to hear submissions. Following consideration of submissions, Council may resolve to declare the road to be a public highway or not to declare the road to be a public highway.

Roslyn Wai Chief Executive Officer

ADVERTISERS PLEASE

advertise unless the

number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part Time sales executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

1 Vision-related (5)

4 Major sale (9) 9 Camper (7)

10 Relating to the natural emblem of a clan or tribe (7)

11 Thoughts; ideas (7)

12 Made sense (5,2) 13 Well pleased (9)

15 Bag (4)

17 Just (4)

19 Pain in a nerve pathway (9)

22 Common crumble ingredient (7)

25 Forbidden (7)

26 US state home to the Grand Canyon (7) 27 Scrutinise (7)

28 Designer of goods and structures (9)

29 French painter, Edgar – (5)

1 Wearer of rose-tinted glasses (8)

2 Conveyance through (7)

3 Settler (9)

4 Danish writer, Hans – Andersen (9)

5 Unneeded (5)

6 Valued (5)

7 Travelling from place to place (7)

8 Break loose (6) 14 Undeniably (5)

15 Right side of a ship (9) 16 Loss of hair (8) 18 Hurting (7)

20 Getting bigger (7)

21 Polished (6)

23 Bedeck (5)

24 Hold responsible (for something bad) (5)

7 Which reality series did singer Kesha (pictured) appear in before she rose to fame?

8 In the first instalment of the Curious George children’s book series, who is George’s companion?

9

10

No. 213

New MG HS is bigger and better

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

The MG HS is the Chinese importer’s largest vehicle.

A mid-size SUV, it competes - although not toosuccessfullysofar-againstwell-established models like the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Nissan X-Trail and Kia Sportage.

MG HS has been on sale here since late 2019 andhasjustbeenreplacedbywhatiseffectively an all-new model. It’s larger in length, width and with a longer wheelbase than before, all of which contribute to providing extra interior space. Indeed, it’s larger in most dimensions than most of its rivals.

There are three variants: Vibe, Excite and Essense with prices ranging from $33,990 to $40,990 driveaway. Although these prices are around $3000 more than the previous models they are still at the lower end in its category.

The top-spec Essence was our test vehicle.

On release, the new HS only comes with a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine but with both a conventionalpetrol/electrichybrid(HEV)and plug-in electric hybrid (PHEV) due to follow early in the new year.

Styling

Styling for this second-generation HS is a step up from the fairly conservative design of its predecessor with a much more attractive premium look.

The front grille is wider than before with a new design featuring a combination of brushed aluminium and piano black.

MG is making full use of the original British company’s iconic badge attached to the front of the bonnet, tailgate and wheels as well as inside on the centre of the steering wheel and on the key fob.

All HS models have full LED automatic headlights with manual levelling together with LED daytime running lights and LED tail-lights.

Rear fog lights are also standard but only Excite and Essence get them at the front.

The entry level Vibe comes with 18-inch alloys, Excite and Essence get 19-inch alloys.

Interior

MG HS is longer, wider and with a longer wheelbase than most of its direct competitors andthistranslatesintoexcellentinteriorspace.

Entry is easy to manage and the additional wheelbase and width improve on the already capacious interior space.

There’s a real feeling of quality and prestige inside the MG HS that gives the impression it could easily be a much more expensive vehicle. It has a really solid feel, fit and finish is excellent, with well-crafted soft touch surfaces mixed with piano black.

At the front there are two USB-A ports, a 12V power outlet and a wireless smartphone chargerintheEssence.Storagespaceislimited with two cupholders sitting right behind the gear selector level and no easy spots for phones, wallets and the like.

There is a sunglass holder.

Rear legroom is excellent and there’s plenty of headroom despite the Essence’s panoramic sunroof. The extra width together with a flat floor, air vents, twin USB ports, grab handles with lights and map pockets make for a comfortable space that’s just about suitable for three adults rather than the usual two plus a child in most cars of its size.

Boot space is 507 litres with the seatback in place, expanding to 1484 litres when they are folded. There is some useful storage space under the bootlid and a space-saver wheel below that.

Infotainment

One of the biggest improvements in the new HS are the twin 12.3-inch screens. There’s a virtual driver cluster display behind the steering wheel and the colour infotainment touchscreen in the centre of the dashboard. Both screens are easy to read and operate. Smartphone mirroring is available through cabled Apple CarPlay or Android Auto with two USB ports at the front and another pair

at the rear. Satellite navigation is standard in both variants.

Satellite navigation is standard in the Excite and Essence.

Engines/transmissions

As before, the new HS is powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine but with increased power and torque: 125 kW (up from 119 kW) and 275 Nm (from 250 Nm).

The engine is mated to a seven-speed DCT automatic transmission feeding power to the road via the front wheels.

Running on 91 RON fuel with a claimed fuel consumption of 7.3 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined urban / highway cycle.

Safety

OneofthemainreasonsthattheearlyChinese entrants into the Australian market struggled was because of poor safety equipment. That’s no longer the case and, although the new MG HS has yet to be tested by ANCAP, the previous model had been tested in 2019 and achieved the maximum five-star rating.

ANCAP test criteria has tightened since then but so has the range of safety features in the new HS so there’s little doubt that it will get the top mark when it is tested next.

Standard features include seven airbags, enhanced ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution and emergency brake assist, and electronic stability program, reversing camera, hill start assist with auto hold, automatic door unlocking and a collapsible steering column.

Also standard is the MG Pilot advanced driver assistance system. A comprehensive package of safety equipment, it features active emergency braking with pedestrian and cycle detection, adaptive cruise control with traffic

jam assist, intelligent speed limit assist with traffic sign recognition, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, driver attention alert and intelligent high beam assist.

Unfortunately,MGhasfollowedthegrowing cost-saving trend of switching a majority of controls to the multimedia touchscreen, including the most commonly-used audio and air conditioning.

There are numerous alarms and warning sounds that often work together, often without a visual explanation of the reason for the warning. There is also an alert telling the driver to keep their eyes on the road when, as often as not, they are looking at the screen to try and find out why another alert is being sounded.

While many of these alerts can be turned off it’s only temporary. As soon as the engine is re-started they return as default settings.

Driving

Access to the cabin was relatively easy. We were able to slide across into the driver’s seat without any undue bending or climbing easily with the power seat adjustment in the Essence there if needed. Driving position can be optimised with tilt and reach adjustment to the steering wheel. while many drivers will choose to turn off the aforementioned features prior to taking off. The 360-degree camera in the Essence has a number of settings and will be worth the extra cost for those who spend the majority of time around in urban areas.

Large windows and side mirrors provide excellent all-round visibility while the three-spoke steering wheel had the top half clear to allow an unrestricted view of the driver’s information display.

While the drivetrain of the new HS is essentially the same as the previous model,

the extra size has added weight to the vehicle so performance isn’t a strong point. Most mid-sized SUVs are much the same, primarily designed for family transportation.

Having said that, there’s enough power for comfortable motorway cruising and sufficient torque when needed on hills or overtaking.

The ride is noticeably firmer than the outgoing HS and certainly enhanced the driving experience.

Likewisethesteeringfeelhasbeenimproved although there’s a bit of body roll in corners.

Summing up

Like early generations of Japanese and Korean vehicles, MG broke into the Australian market largely through cheap prices. As history showed, that would change with quality and reliability improvements being matched by price increases.

We’re now seeing the same thing happening with Chinese vehicles. This is particularly noticeable with the recent launch of the MG4 and significant upgrades to the MG3 and HS. Despite price rises all three of these vehicles remain are still cheaper than competitors in their respective market segments.

The new MG HS is a major step forward in terms of its styling, build quality and technology. For potential buyers it’s certainly worth including their mid-sized SUV shortlist.

MG has taken a new approach with its standardwarrantywiththeprevioussevenyear / unlimited distance coverage now extended to 10 years but with the distance cut back to 250,000 kilometres. Unlike Mitsubishi’s conditional 10-year warranty MG vehicles do not need to be serviced at their dealerships but just require logbook conditions to be followed.

The new MG HS is a major step forward in terms of its styling, build quality and technology. (Supplied)

Battling the elements

It was a typical Melbourne weekend as local sports people battled both the heat and then the rain as they tried to hit some runs. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out in the heat on Saturday shooting the action.

Footscray’s Dylan Brasher. (443942_01)

Werribee Giants’ Joe Jaco. (443946_05)

Above: Yarraville’s Alexander Wood. (443945_01)

Right: Altona’s Luke Medlock. (443945_06)

Footscray’s batters waiting to come in. (443942_04)

Top right: Yarraville Club’s batters. (443951_20)

Above: Footscray’s Dylan Brasher. (443942_01)

Left: Altona North’s Aiden Elkington. (443948_10)

Left: Seddon walk on the field. (443948_01) Centre: Yarraville Club’s Viraj Lakshitha. (443951_05) Right: Sunshine in the field. (443953_14)

Deer Park is settling into the premier season

Deer Park is taking it one week at a time in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant premier division competition.

The two-time defending champion had a 3-1 record heading into weekend’s round, which was after deadline, after a slow start to the season.

HeadofbowlsoperationMarkCaseysaidthe season had been going well so far. The side was in second place heading into round five.

“We have been very happy with how the team has hit back after losing our first round, winning the last three games has brought us back into a great position and the feeling amongst the group is great,” he said.

“We feel like we are gaining some good momentum, but importantly we are really pleased that we have been able to provide some of our junior players with opportunities of playing in premier division.

“We believe this will only benefit them for later in the year, and of course for years to come.”

Casey said they’d had several players performingatahighlevelearlyon,butwouldn’t single out any individuals.

He said it was a real team effort across the board that had been the most pleasing part.

Casey said the younger players who had got theiropportunitieshadshowntheybelongedat that level.

“Young Bailee Randell (16), Addy Ryan (15) and Harry Coleman (14) have all been involved in some of the premier matches this year.

“WealsohaveEllieDixonperformingwellso we couldn’t be any happier with their progress.

“They are all outstanding kids who have a huge future in the sport.”

The Parkers were due to face Essendon on Friday night, after deadline.

Casey said that was their only focus at this stage.

“In premier division, the competition is that strong we can’t look further than our next game against Essendon,” he said.

“They’reflyingatthemomentsoweareinfor a big challenge.

“Overall the club has been undefeated for the past two weeks which is incredible so we are just looking forward to having as many wins as we can to set us up for a launch at finals after the Christmas break.”

The Parkers second side has also had a good start to the season, sitting 3-1 in division 1, section 1.

In division 2, section 1, Keilor is undefeated after four rounds.

KeilorwassettofaceRosamondonSaturday, after deadline.

Tara Murray

Abdallah joins the Cavs

By Tara Murray

Green Gully has secured the signature of the National Premier League’s best player for next year’s season.

The Cavaliers announced on Wednesday that they had signed Aamir Abdallah as he makes the move from Hume City.

He had a breakout year with Hume, claiming the competition’s top honour, the Gold Medal after polling 32 votes.

He also won the players’ player award and the Bill Fleming Medal as the best player judged by the NPL commentary team.

He finished with 14 goals and eight assists in 20 games.

Speaking after the awards, Abdallah told Star Weekly the move to Hume was about getting more playing time.

Speaking to Green Gully media, Abdallah said he was excited to join the club.

“Obviously it means a lot,” he said. “I’ve always held the club at a very, very high standard.

“I’ve known much about the club through the years but I’ve never played for them or anything.

“I’ve had mates who played at the club and always held it in high regard.”

Abdallah said he had spoken to several clubs in the off season but he said it proved to be not much of a decision in the end.

Hesaidthehistoryoftheclubwassomething he wanted to be involved with, while reuniting with David Chick, who coached him at Hume for most of the season, was another one.

“Chicky came five to six rounds in,” he said. “I didn’t know much about him and he had been at the club before.

“He would give me… a bit more freedom to do what I would like to do in the front third with everything else more rigid there’s a plan and a structure.

“I’ve always found it easy to play under him so I think him being at the club at least makes it even more easier.”

Chick said that he was surprised that Abdallah was available in the off season and they jumped at the opportunity to sign him.

“He made it known to us and we had some conversations and it turned out to be the best option for us,“ he said.

“He has fitted in well with everyone. It’s nice to bring him in, having worked with him, he’s a fantastic guy and a great player.”

Chick said there’s always a risk when bringing in new players, but he said that risk disappears when you already have a connection.

He said everything he had seen from Abdallah had been nothing short of excellent.

The Cavaliers started pre-season last week and would train for five or six weeks before a break at Christmas.

Chick said they had a bit of a different squad to last season.

“We’re working on bringing in what fits with what we need,” he said. “There had been a little bit of turnover but we kept a lot of who we wanted to keep.

“We’ve got some good additions and hopefully we’ll add one of two more.”

Among those who join the squad are four players that have been promoted from the club’s under-23 side.

Chick said they were impressing early in pre-season and would be pushing for starting spots.

Western Jets coach Trent Dennis-Lane is on the move having secured an AFL coaching role.

After two seasons at the Jets, Dennis-Lane will head to Sydney having signed with Greater Western Sydney as a development coach.

Dennis-Lane, who played 29 games for the Sydney Swans and St Kilda, has focused on coaching since his AFL days were over.

The 36-year-old has spent the last two seasonsascoachoftheJetsboysprogram having previously held positions at the Sandringham Zebras in the VFL and St Kilda’s Next Generation Academy.

Dennis-Lane said when he was appointed to the Jets role that the opportunity coach full time was what attracted him to the role.

The Jets finished 10th this season in the Coates Talent League.

Giants executive football general manager Jason McCartney welcomed Dennis-Lane to the club.

“Trent comes to us with a great resume and a wealth of experience working with the best young talent in the country and we see him as the perfect fit for this role,” McCartney said.

“Bringing a quality person into our program like Trent will only further benefit our players and their development.

“We’re excited to welcome Trent and his partner Nina back to Sydney and to our Giants family.”

Meanwhile, the AFL drafts will take place this week.

The first round of the draft will be held on Wednesday night, before the rest of the rounds on Thursday night and the rookie draft on Friday.

Lucca Grego is seen at the Jets best hope for the Jets, while Lucas Impey and Keighton Matofai-Forbes were both also invited to the AFL state combine testing after impressing AFL clubs.

Trent Dennis-Lane. (Supplied)

Matt Baus. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 387679_06

Aamir Abdallah has signed with Green Gully. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 400925_19

Netball competition will host 70 teams next year

The Western Netball League is continuing to grow with the league set to have more than 70 teams next season.

Big plans are in place for the continued growth of the competition for this season and beyond according to netball and events coordinator Jordan Dalliston.

Dalliston said they were looking at 75 teams next year for the first time ever with no club failing to get sides the following season.

There were 59 teams across teams this year.

Werribee Districts, Hoppers Crossing and Sunshine Heights will all have sides next season, while the Hobsons Bay Netball Association becomes the first non-aligned club to join the competition.

“All the clubs netball wise are strong and thriving on the back of the league’s support,” she said.

“We have signed a contract for courts at the State Netball and Hockey Centre for division one to three and division four to seven at Whitten Oval.

“We’re looking to try and hone in on a third venue as well. We’ll look to have 10 to 12 teams

in a division and we’re looking at not having as many byes.

“We’llhavea16roundcompetition,butitwill be more spread out to maximize involvement.”

Dalliston said they were looking to have a pre-seasontournament,whichwouldhelpwith grading.

There will be a number of theme rounds throughout the season, with Pride Round to be one of the biggest focuses.

The league’s interleague program will also expand to two teams, up from one this year.

The league is working on changing the structure of the umpiring system in the competition and has a new netball coordinator, Woody Tangaroa.

They will continue to follow the Netball Victoria structure that is in place and will remain without player points to facilitate growth.

Dallistonsaidtheywantedtobeawelcoming competition for everyone.

The competition had 20 non-binary or trans people play this season.

“It’s about inclusion,” she said. “We follow

the rules and regulations in place from Netball Victoria.

“We welcome all trans and non-binary players, no questions asked. They just need to get a clearance from the league.”

Dalliston said the league was focused on growth in the future.

Medwin glad to be back

By Tara Murray

Western United’s Aimee Medwin says having time away from the game last year after a serious knee injury proved to be a blessing in disguise.

Medwin got back and managed to get eight games at the back end of the season and it led into her first ever first A-League women’s pre-season.

She said having a full pre-season makes a massive difference.

“I took a lot out of it,” she said. “There are a lot of new players and it’s been really great for us.

“It’s something you value as a player. It gives you time to settle into different formations and the last few years I’ve changed positions.

“You can solidify knowledge in that area.”

Medwin said while missing the first part of last season with an ACL injury was hard, she was able to refresh.

She picked up where she had left off the year before.

“Coming back from a long term injury like

an ACL, it’s a common theme where you feel really good,“ she said.

“The time away was a blessing in disguise for me. The rehab process was as good as it wasandIgotbackintotheswingofthingsand played eight games at the end of the season.”

This season Medwin has taken on a more attacking role in the team.

It was a challenge she was loving and allowed her to show different sides of her game.

“It has been a bit of learning and training in a new attacking style,” she said. “I’m coming in and trying to be as aggressive and calm at the same time.

“Ithasbeengood.Ienjoythemoreattacking role. I’ve been a defender the last few years after being an attacker as a kid.

“Going forward I want to be a lot more creative and use my athletic traits and my strengths against the opposition and not have to defend an opponent as much.”

From a team perspective, Medwin said things had been going really well with a number of new faces.

She they had a good group of girls who were really supported.

Onfield,Westernhasstartedwithawinand a draw. Western was set to face Melbourne Victory on Sunday, after deadline.

Medwin said they had been happy with how things had been going.

“Against Central Coast it was a bit frustrating as we thought we could have scored and won the match,” she said.

“Against Wellington Phoenix we were happy. We’ve had some good performance and some good learning along the way.”

Medwin said for the next period it would be continuing to take the learnings out of it as they settle into the season.

“We want to keep the momentum rolling forward,” she said. “We want to keep the energy high and try new things.

“The coaches want us to try things and make mistakes as we go, the ethos of how we want to play.

“The opening rounds we are still figuring things out. We’ve got some bit matches coming up.”

The league was looking at a junior competition in 2026 with games to be played midweekandlookingatrepresentativefootball. She said they were also looking at a men’s competition in 2026.

T20s kick off

St Albans and Sunshine were among the winners in the opening round of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition.

The competition launched with a new format, with less groups and more teams in each group.

Therearenowfivepoolroundsinstead of three.

In the Lawrie group, St Albans got the win without bowling a ball, with Footscray Angliss forfeiting.

The Druids came away with the win against Grand United in the Taylor group.

The Wizards made 5-138 from their overswithTomHazell-Evanstopscoring with 60 not out at the top of the order.

Leo Turnbull-Gent took two wickets for the Gorillas.

Grand United lost frequent wickets throughout its innings to be restricted to 9-122.

Nilan Fernando top scored with 22.

Sunshine had an easy win against Burnside Springs United.

Burnside was bowled out for 75, with Isuru Yaddehige taking four wickets for the Crows.

The Crows lost their top order, but it didn’t matter as they finished 3-76.

In the Pointing group, Bellbridge wasted little time in chasing down Sunshine Heights total.

Sunshine Heights were bowled out for 71 with Siddhant Bindroo top scoring with 13.

Bellbridgeneededlessthaneightovers to get the runs, finishing 0-72. Arun Joiya and Daniel Spencer, made 33 each. LavertonupsetSunshineUnitedinthe other match.

Laverton made 5-138 from its overs with several contributions throughout the order.

The Tigers lost wickets late, which provedcostlyasitwasrestrictedto6-127. Matthew Sipala top scored with 48 Altona North, Point Cook Centrals, Point Cook, Seddon, West Coburg St Andrews, Doutta Stars, Haig Fawkner and Sunbury were among the other winners.

Altona North’s Asela Aluthge was the star of the show on night one.

Aluthge made a massive 135 from 71 balls in an innings including 14 fours and eight sixes as Altona North made 4-211 against Wyndham Vale.

Tara Murray

The Western Netball League competition continues to grow. (Local Legends Team and Sports Photography.)

Aimee Medwin. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 395273_09

Lions showing ominous form early in the season

Early signs are strong for Deer Park as its new-looklineuphashitthegroundrunningin the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division.

The defending champions were one of the biggest movers in the off season and their stars are shining brightly early.

On Saturday, the Lions made it two from two with a big win against Craigieburn.

Lions coach Mick Andriadis said everything had been good so far.

“Everyone has gelled pretty good,” he said. “ We have a big game this week against Yarraville Club.

“We want to try and duplicate last season, getting wins as quickly as we can. It gives you a bit of breathing space with everyone chasing extra points late in the season.”

On Saturday, the Lions narrowly missed out on getting an outright win against Craigieburn.

Havingmade9-299,theLionshadtheEagles in trouble at 3-21.

The Eagles were bowled out for 154 in their first innings. The Lions sent them back in looking for the full 10 points.

The Eagles fought hard, finishing 8-87.

Andriadis said it was disappointing not to get the outright win, but pleasing they put themselvesinthepositiontodosowithwickets hard to come in other matches on Saturday.

“Craigieburn was good,” he said. “In the end we had about 10 overs to get two wickets and we weren’t able to get one.

“That was disappointing as we had a chance from nothing going right early in the day.”

Fawad Ahmed was the key for the Lions in the first innings, taking 6-43 after the Eagles batted well early on day two.

In the second innings the Lions shared the wickets with Upul Bandara taking three wickets.

Andriadis said the most pleasing thing out of the game was the breakout innings from Lachlan Fitzgerald, who has returned to the club this season.

The Lions now face Yarraville Club, which is also undefeated.

Andriadis said it would be a good test and he expected the Clubbers to be around the top of the table as well.

Overall he said the vibe was really good at the club.

In other matches, Sydenham-Hillside was too good for St Albans.

The Saints were defending 167, which Storm easily chased down as it finished 5-197. The Saints finished 1-109 in their second innings

Keilor lost a final over thriller to Westmeadows.

Having made 8-221, the Blues took the game to the final over. The Warriors hit the winning runs with four balls remaining, finishing 8-222.

Sunshine United had a tough day in the field against Yarraville Club.

The Clubbers finished 1-296 in reply to the Tigers 204.

Crows enjoy a hot start

By Tara Murray

Sunshine has gotten off to a flying start to the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Isaacs-Howarth season.

Under new coach Shafraz Mohamed, the Crows have claimed two wins from as many completed games with a new attacking game style.

Mohamedsaidtherewasaspecialsomething about the group that they’ve put together.

“I had a good feeling about this,” he said. “The talent in the team is unbelievable and the best I’ve played with. I’ve played with many clubs.

“The talent is definitely there.. We are still at 70 per cent capacity, once we get to 100 per cent watch out.”

Mohamed said the group had bought into the style of cricket that he wanted them to play. He’s been happy with how they were batting so far, with more than 600 runs on the board already.

“We’ve been setting an attacking game and it’s worked for us,” he said. “Shiraz [Mohamed Munas Mohamed] and Troy up the top is the key.

“The middle order is in form. Ashen Abeykoon is a good signing and Pramud Hettiwatte is a very good first class player.

“He already has something like 16 wickets and 180 runs.”

On Saturday, the Crows completed the task against Altona North.

The Crows had made 8-276 on day one of the match.

Altona North started well but weren’t able to get any big partnerships going as it was bowled out for 220.

Mohamed said the biggest difference with the side this season was in the bowling group which they had reinforced with a number of recruits.

He said they faced some tough conditions but were able to get the job done.

“The outfield was lightning and it was a hot day,” he said. “The boys stayed up for it.

“We have a good spin attack despite being two bowlers short with injuries.”

Hettiwatte took four wickets for the Crows.

Mohamed said they were keen to keep the early momentum going the next few weeks.

The Crows next match is a two-dayer against the Altona Roosters, starting this Saturday.

“The challenge is to keep them fit,” he said. “We’ve had a big workload and the training has been intense.

“We’ll try and look after their bodies and we will be OK.”

In other results, PEGS got the point against Oak Park St Francis de Sales.

Chasing 213, PEGS finished 5-215 to claim the win.

IntheSteveMcNamaraShield,GrandUnited has a big win against the Greenvale Kangaroos.

Defending 9-338, the Gorillas restricted the Kangaroos to 116. Leo Turnbull-Gent took three wickets for the Gorillas.

In the Roy Picone Shield, Keilor Park beat Point Cook, Sunshine Heights got the win against Pascoe Vale Hadfield and Caroline Springs beat Kingsville.

Keilor Thunder’s biggest name is back for next year’s National Basketball League South 1 women’s season, while the Thunder has signed another player who has been in the WNBL system.

Captain Maddy Rocci has committed forasecondseasonandsaidshe’sthrilled to be back in the black and red.

Rocci has an impressive basketball history, including playing for the Australian Opals and is part of the Southside Flyers WNBL team this season.

In her first season with the Thunder, Rocci averaged 17 points and nearly six assists a game as she led the Thunder to a grand final.

Kasey Burton is the first new signing for the Thunder’s women’s program.

Burton brings a wealth of experience to the squad, having played for the Melbourne Tigers and Bendigo Braves.

She was a key contributor for the Braces undefeated run in the NBL1 South championship in 2023.

Burton averaged eight points and six rebounds a game this year.

Burton was a development player with theBendigoSpiritforthe2019-20season, making her WNBL debut that season.

She has previously played under Thunder coach Kristi Harrower at the Melbourne Tigers.

“With the ability to dominate both ends of the floor, Kasey is a versatile forward who can stretch the floor with her 3-point shooting, and defend against bigger post players,” the Thunder said.

“Her experience and leadership will be invaluable as we gear up for the new season.”

On the men’s side, the Thunder has announced the re-signings of Ryan Phillipe and Daniel Poelsma.

Maddy Rocci. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Tara Murray Fawad Ahmed. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 442420_05

Dilip Tharaka. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 443953_07