Star Weekly - Northern - 17th December 2024 by Star Weekly

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17 DECEMBER, 2024

Merry Christmas everyone!

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Children across Melbourne’s northern suburbs, including Harrison, 9, are eagerly counting down the days until the big man in red arrives. As the end of 2024 draws near, the team at Star Weekly would like to wish readers and advertisers a Merry Christmas and safe and happy 2025. The first edition for 2025 will be out on Tuesday, January 7.

‘Malicious’ secret recording By Prealene Khera Police will be asked to investigate a “malicious” and potentially illegal clandestine recording made during a private Hume council briefing, which emerged on social media during the November local government elections. At the Hume council meeting on December 9, councillor Carly Moore raised a motion pushing for an inquiry into a non-consensual recording made during a closed meeting, without the knowledge of its participants. Confidential items were also discussed at the same briefing.

Recording a person without consent is unlawful and a breach of section 11 of the Surveillance Devices Act 1999, the report tabled at the recent council meeting stated. In addition, the report said, section 125 of the Local Government Act 2020 prohibits the disclosure of information a person should reasonably know is confidential information. Cr Moore said the “unauthorised and undisclosed” recording went against the standards council representatives needed to abide by. “The standard you walk past is the standard you accept, and I’m not willing to accept that this conduct is acceptable,” she said.

“We must act with integrity and honesty. We must treat all persons with dignity, fairness, objectivity, courtesy, and respect. “The recording that this [motion] refers to was circulated on social media through an account in the name of someone who was not a party to the meeting where the recording was taken. “How did this person get the recording? If they believed this conduct is acceptable, why were they not willing to put their name to it?” Council will now refer the matter to Victoria Police, requesting an investigation. Cr Naim Kurt said it was important to

understand the legal ramifications of the deed. “[How many] of those briefing sessions were recorded and how many years worth of recordings exist out there, and how [might] they be used in the future?” he said. “So it’s really important I think to get the answers on this.” Council is also expected to seek direction from the local government minister on how councillors and council officers can be protected from breaches of this nature reoccurring. Star Weekly has chosen not to disclose the contents of the recording since it is believed to be illegally obtained.

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Level crossing behaviour warning Passengers are urged to be vigilant around Donnybrook Station following a rise in illegal and dangerous behaviour. V/Line’s executive director safety, sustainability and risk Josef Brennan said there had been a significant rise in people ignoring warning signals, running around the closed pedestrian crossing and boom gates and across tracks to catch a train at Donnybrook Station. “The safety of the community is paramount and it’s extremely concerning to see an increase in people running around activated boom gates to cross the tracks and attempt to

catch a train,” Mr Brennan said. “This type of reckless behaviour is alarming and incredibly dangerous because trains can come from either direction at any time of day and night.” Mr Brennan said in some instances, trains had been arriving into the station while pedestrians were running around the boom gates and across the tracks. In one frightening incident, a pedestrian ignored the closed pedestrian crossing and attempted to cross the Albury Line track, only to notice at the last minute the train was travelling express through the station and

narrowly avoided being hit. “Passengers should allow extra time to ensure they are not rushing for a train because the consequences of risky behaviour around the railway can be deadly,” Mr Brennan said. “At level crossings, please always obey the signs and be patient. It’s never worth risking your life to catch a train.” The Donnybrook Road level crossing services V/Line trains on the Seymour, Shepparton and Albury lines, as well as the Melbourne to Sydney express passenger train and freight trains, so trains can come from either direction at any time.

There has been a sharp rise in reported incidents involving near hits between pedestrians and trains at Donnybrook Station over the past two years. So far this year, there have been 25 reported incidents along the north-east corridor, with 16 of those taking place at Donnybrook Station. V/Line and the City of Whittlesea recently installed fencing along part of the rail corridor to discourage passengers from crossing the tracks. Authorised officers will also have an increased presence at the station, especially during morning peak services.

Extra slip lane investigated

Santa joined Stardust residents Andrew, Renee, Chris, Sarah, Alison and Sharon to encourage everyone to attend the upcoming event. (Damjan Janevski) 447496_06 Inset: Santa’s Kingdom will open its doors to the public as part of the event. (Supplied)

Event sprinkles stardust From Santa’s Kingdom to the Grinch’s hideout, a Wollert initiative is set to bring the best of Christmas together this festive season. Following last year’s magical success, the highly anticipated Stardust Way Christmas Lights event is back again for five days of merriment. Running from December 20 to 24, families will be able to take pictures with Santa, the Grinch and other North Pole residents, while enjoying a spectacular display of lights adorning houses on the street. According to event organiser Renee Gaitanis, the annual affair has become a Christmas hallmark for the community – with support from locals key for its continued success. “I’m so grateful to the community for the [love] they’ve shown us and ask them to keep backing us,” she said.

“In 2023, we had nearly 4000 people attend which is amazing, so if we could get a similar number this year that would be great.” Ms Gaitanis said attendees would not only have an entertaining experience, but would also help raise money for the Starlight Foundation. The event will include food tucks, face painting and plenty of photo opportunities – with some fake snow adding to the fun. Although the event initially faced uncertainty, pending approval from the Whittlesea council, Ms Gaitanis said she was appreciative that an agreement had been reached. “We would have liked to have run the event for longer than what’s been allowed but I’m happy that the council has worked with me in ensuring the event goes ahead,” she said. A Whittlesea council spokesperson said the permit had been granted with all parties

in mind. “The permit includes a temporary road closure of Stardust Way for limited times, carefully aligned with [Environment Protection Authority] guidelines and enables the event to be held safely whilst ensuring minimal disruption to local residents,” the spokesperson said. “In the lead-up to granting this permit, council surveyed residents in Stardust Way and surrounding streets. The valuable feedback received played a key role in shaping the decision, balancing the joy of the event with the needs of the local residents.” Stardust Way Christmas Lights will start at 6 pm on all five days, and will finish at 10pm on most days. For more information, search for the ‘Stardust Way Christmas Lights’ page on Facebook. Prealene Khera

Motorists travelling through the busy Grand Boulevard and Hume Highway intersection in Craigieburn could benefit from an added slip lane if the traffic-reduction measure is found feasible. Hume council is considering the possibility of installing a left-turn slip lane on the west side of the intersection. Currently, three of the four points at the intersection have left slip lanes, significantly improving traffic flow – the point without a left slip turning lane experiences “significant traffic congestion”, according to a report tabled at the Hume council meeting on December 9. Cr Daniel English moved a motion asking council to investigate whether a left-turn slip lane could be added to the relevant section. “Many residents have expressed concern to me about this issue,” he said. “I look forward to working with council officers and other government agencies to deliver this improvement.” According to the report, the intersection is the responsibility of the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP). “Officers would seek to work with DTP to investigate the feasibility of the proposal and whether it could be funded,” the report said. A preliminary assessment and report is expected to be provided to council by March in order to consider budget implications.

Group to ‘do the right thing’ and address poverty in Hume In an effort to address serious and overwhelming levels of socio-economic disadvantage in the municipality, Hume council has backed a bid to establish a dedicated group to draw up solutions to tackle the debilitating challenge. The decision follows councillor Kate Hamley’s impassioned plea to do the “right thing” at the December 9 council meeting. Cr Hamley moved a successful motion to push for the formation of a working committee to investigate options to address socio-economic disadvantage in Hume. It comes after the Victorian Council of 2 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 December, 2024

Social Service’s (VCOSS) Mapping Poverty in Victoria 2023 report found that the region had the highest rate of poverty in the state. “[This] report emphasises how serious a problem social economic inequality has become in Hume,” Cr Hamley said. “Modern day poverty is hidden behind record housing unaffordability, high rents, and household debt. “You might not see it, but there are people in our community that can’t afford food, that can’t afford heating or cooling and can’t afford to leave their homes.” According to the report tabled at the council

meeting, VCOSS’ findings highlighted a pressing need for action, which Cr Hamley’s appeal also mirrored. “With our community in crisis, it’s our duty to act,” she said. “Hume is one of the first local government areas in Victoria with a social justice charter, which even preceded the Victorian charter of human rights and responsibilities. “We have a history of standing for fairness. This motion isn’t a criticism of this council’s action to date, but an invitation to do more, because we can, we should and because it’s the right thing to do.”

Other than giving the green light to the working group, these motion included the council formally recognising the harm that socio-economic disadvantage is causing to the community, as well appointing the mayor and chief executive to oversee the development of a terms of reference document to guide the purpose, scope and functioning of the working group. Any recommendations arising from this process will be referred for consideration as part of the council’s 2025-26 budget process. Prealene Khera

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Drive to cut the holiday road toll The Amber Community is calling on road users to reflect on their attitudes and actions ahead of another busy Christmas on the roads. In Hume, 30 people have died in crashes since 2019, while another 1093 were seriously injured between 2019-2023, according to figures from the TAC. In Whittlesea, 33 people died in the same period, with those seriously injured amounting to 859. The Amber Community is a not-for-profit organisation that provides counselling to those affected by road trauma and aims

to prevent further road trauma through education. Amber Community spokesperson Kim McAliney said that many deaths and life-altering injuries come from a motoring culture that needs to change. “We live in a culture in which we tend to accept people dying on the roads. Many people think it has happened forever … and will keep happening,” she said. “As a result, many people let their friends drive when drunk, and let their mates use phones while driving. We don’t have a culture

of calling out choices which could kill or injure. We must call it out!” While Christmas should be a time of joy, for those affected by deaths and injuries on the road, it can be one of pain and mourning. Alcohol and drug use, parties and celebrations, and people losing patience amid traffic congestion are just a few things that make the holiday season a high-risk period on the roads. While the Amber Community hosts a series of educational events and facilitates group communication, the conversation about road

safety ultimately starts with oneself. “Ninety-five per cent of car crashes are due to the choices people are making, such as choosing to speed, choosing to text and choosing to drive when drowsy,” Ms McAliney said. “People only need to ask “Could it happen to me?” The Amber Community is always looking for people to share their stories of experiencing road trauma or volunteer their time and resources. Details: https://ambercommunity.org.au/

Kinder fees slashed

Yarra Plenty Regional Library chief executive Jane Cowell (front) joined staff, including Matthew van Hasselt, Tracey Jermiesen, Danielle Butler, Mark Mascia and Jane Hamilton to celebrate ten years of the Whittlesea Library. (Damjan Janevski) 447734_05

Ten year milestone for ‘loved’ library Fifteen years ago, in the aftermath of losses brought on by the devastating Black Saturday fires, a critical question was posed to the Whittlesea community. They were asked to name things of importance that would help them through the crisis – on the list was a permanent library. So, Yarra Plenty Regional Library chief executive Jane Cowell said, work began to create one as part of the Whittlesea Community and Activity Centre. That was a decade ago. “Ten years since the doors opened, the

community’s instinct has been proven correct,” Ms Cowell said. “Anyone who uses the library today can see that it has become an important community hub — a place where people can gather, share interests, ideas, and read and learn.” The Whittlesea Library recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, and according to Ms Cowell, the biggest achievement recorded in all those years is “bringing the library experience to people in new ways”. From regular story time sessions for toddlers, to technology classes for seniors, the space has become a “loved and valued

part of the Whittlesea community”. “Aside from the huge range of resources we have in our collections, the library’s broad range of programs bring the community together in many different ways,” Ms Cowell said. “We are a safe and welcoming space. “We are warm in the winter, cool in the summer and have a kettle on the ready to provide a free cuppa when [people] need one. We are here to help – always – and that is something the community can celebrate.”

Families will no longer have to pay an application fee when enrolling their children at Hume council-run kinders, with the move eliminating financial barriers to access. At the council meeting on December 9, councillors adopted the kindergarten central registration policy to implement a number of changes in the enrolment process. According to a report tabled at the meeting, the redeveloped policy paves way for the removal of paper-based registration, swapping it with an online system. It has also slashed the $17.50 application fee, which the report said, is a “barrier for families to access kindergarten and aligns with the state government’s free kindergarten reform”. “The adoption of the policy will allow for equitable access to kindergarten for all families including those that are vulnerable and those from culturally and linguistically diverse families,” the report added. Councillor Karen Sherry echoed the sentiment. “The application fee was a barrier to some families, particularly in the tough times that we’re facing lately with the cost of living crisis,” she said. “I’m also pleased to say that for people who have difficulty accessing the online system, support will be provided as well in accessing that system. “The kindergarten policy has been streamlined for better access all round.” Prealene Khera

Prealene Khera

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School chalks up national award By Prealene Khera Owing to its “innovation and excellence”, Epping Views Primary School has been awarded a significant honour by a national not-for-profit professional association. The school, which is a member of the Primary English Teaching Association (PETAA), has been bestowed with the organisation’s ‘School Award for Excellence in Primary English Teaching’. Annually, the association gives the accolade to only one school in the country and this year the Epping institute came out on top due to its “strong commitment to continuous learning” and staff collaboration which “… amplifies their impact, fostering an environment of growth for both students and teachers”. “By using rubrics to guide both instruction

and assessment, teachers create clear learning pathways, enabling students to understand expectations and track their progress,” the judges comments read. “Evidence of significant student improvement further highlights the effectiveness of these strategies.” According to Epping Views Primary School acting curriculum assistant principal Jessica Duncan, the national recognition could help put the suburb on the educational map. “It’s a proud moment for our school and the wider community – only one school wins each year, so it’s a tremendous honour,” she said. “Our literacy leaders will be running a webinar for schools across Australia who are members of PETAA to support [them in making] effective changes in literacy

Epping Views Primary School acting principal Rachel Griffiths (front) was joined by students and staff to celebrate their recent win. (Damjan Janevski) 447503_04

instruction to improve student outcomes.” The school’s literacy team is made up of Ms Duncan, leading teacher Chantal Toprtevski,

and acting principal Rachel Griffiths. Ms Duncan said the award highlighted the effort educators had put in to bolster learning in classrooms. “This recognition is incredibly important because teachers work tirelessly, often without acknowledgement,” she said. “Winning this award shines a light on their hard work and dedication, giving them a well-deserved opportunity to celebrate the growth and success their students have achieved in literacy. “[Our] teachers have transformed how they teach reading, writing, speaking and listening, ensuring these areas are more interconnected. “This approach helps students analyse the techniques authors use during reading sessions and apply those techniques in their own writing.”

Alliance for senior support

Hume Anglican Grammar Dux Meron Nona, and Kolbe Catholic College Dux Caleb Katigbak. (Pictures: Supplied)

Relief as students score top marks Students from Whittlesea and Hume were among the tens of thousands across Victoria to receive their VCE results on December 12 – and for some local high-achievers, their top-scores were a “dream come true”. For Hume Anglican Grammar dux Meron Nona, earning the school’s highest ATAR in 13 years – 99.55 – was a combination of resolute effort and dedication. “I’m overjoyed that I was able to push myself for the past 12 months and achieve my absolute best, and that is all I could have wanted,” he said. “The core of my preparation was focused on identifying and working on my mistakes and weaknesses until they became my strengths.” Meron also received three perfect study scores of 50 in biology, general mathematics and chemistry.

“It is amazing that I am able to make my family, teachers and school proud, and continue to inspire the next year levels and show that this accomplishment is achievable,” he said. Kolbe Catholic College’s Caleb Katigbak earned the dux title with an ATAR of 98.35. According to Caleb, the moment was marked by mixed emotions. “[I’m feeling] mainly satisfaction, excitement and some nervousness about the path ahead,” he said. Caleb said his secret to success was habitual study, which is something he advises younger students to do. “Learn how to make deep work a regular practice, remove distractions and you’ll be surprised at how much you can get done,” he said.

Elsewhere, Lalor North Secondary College’s Mansour Belal also made most of an “opportunity of a lifetime to reach for the stars”, according to the school. Mansour came to Melbourne from Syria, enrolling in the Epping-based school in year nine. “I had very limited communication skills when I came, but the teachers here believed in me to do my best,” he said. His best led him to be named the school’s dux. “This is a dream come true,” he said. “The school has taught me that with imagination, belief and courage, anything is possible.”

The North West Melbourne Aged Care Assessment Alliance will provide Single Assessment System (SAS) for older consumers across north-west Melbourne. The SAS is an end-to-end system to support older consumers to access home care and residential aged care services in a way in which they have greater control and choice in the services they receive. The alliance, which has been appointed by the federal government, is made up of multiple agencies including four community health organisations — DPV Health, IPC Health, Merri Health and Your Community Health. DPB Health will led the alliance. “We are delighted to work with our alliance partners to deliver SAS for older people across Melbourne’s north and west,” DPV Health chief executive Don Tidbury said. “Currently older people often have to move between assessment agencies as their needs change, doing their best to navigate an overly complex health system. The new streamlined and single system means older people will get support quicker and more easily with less confusion and duplication. “SAS will provide a much better experience for our older community members to support their journey through the aged care system.” The implementation of the SAS follows reforms into aged care assessment arising from recommendations from the Royal Commission in aged care quality and safety in 2021.

Prealene Khera

Where 960 kinders, schools must be built, and built big Building larger schools could save taxpayers up to $1.5 billion as Victoria is projected to need almost 1000 new kindergartens and government schools in the next decade to keep up with demand. The state will need about 900 new kindergartens, 60 new government schools and 20 per cent more space for TAFE by 2036, according to Infrastructure Victoria’s Learning for Life report. While private and not-for-profit providers can meet some of the need for kindergartens, Infrastructure Victoria said the government 4 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 December, 2024

must step up to fill in investment gaps. The north, west and southeast growth areas of Melbourne would benefit the most from this investment. Victoria will need 138,000 more kindergarten places by 2036 and that could cost up to $17 billion if the government delivers all 900 new facilities for three- to four-year-olds. But depending on the level of private investment, this could cost between $6.1 billion to $11 billion. Most demand for government schools will

be in Melbourne’s fast-growing communities with an estimated 10,000 to 17,000 enrolments by 2036 in Wyndham and Melton in the west, Whittlesea in the north and Casey in the southeast. The state should also expand existing schools in Melbourne’s inner and middle suburbs and begin new education deliveries by 2030, Infrastructure Victoria chief executive Jonathan Spear said. “Our modelling shows the best way to deliver the schools we will need beyond 2026 is to build larger new schools and expand

existing schools where there is land to do so,” he said. Building larger new schools could cost $5.9 billion, a saving of $1.5 billion, compared with the government’s historical approach to delivering school infrastructure. Strong demands for TAFE will require the government to find an extra 125,000 square metres, or 20 per cent, of space by 2030 for Melbourne’s west, north and southeast growth areas. William Ton, AAP

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Bakers’ golden touch

Craigieburn arson attack Detectives are investigating a fire at a tobacconist in a shopping centre in Craigieburn on December 10. Emergency services were called to the blaze at the Craigieburn Road centre about 3.30am. It is alleged three offenders exited a black Holden Commodore which was parked directly outside the store, before throwing an accelerant into the store and setting it alight. The shop sustained significant damage during the fire. Investigators cordoned off the area and set up a crime scene. A Holden Commodore was later located burnt out in Companion Place in Epping shortly before 7am and police are in the process of determining if it is the same vehicle used in the tobacco shop arson.

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Illicit tobacco seized

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Dilsha Lakshani with her winning gingerbread house. (Supplied)

Two Craigieburn locals have baked their way to victory, with Dilsha Lakshani and Leslie Mirandilla nabbing first and second place respectively at the Kangan Institute’s gingerbread competition. A panel of judges comprising industry and alumni evaluated14 gingerbread houses. All students were asked to research and design their gingerbread house using skills and techniques they learnt in their baking course. Ms Lakshani, who was crowned top baker, worked as a banker in Sri Lanka before she moved to Australia last year. Now, she’s striving to become a cake decorator – and her recent win is the icing on the cake. “I feel very happy because this is the first time I’ve won in the baking industry,” Ms Lakshani said. “I love to bake, especially cake, and I like

creative and colourful things. “I enjoy working with fondant, that’s why I made a fondant Santa, snowmen and Christmas tree. It took around 20 hours.” For Ms Mirandilla, receiving the first runner-up medal was a sweet surprise. “I was not expecting to win,” she said. “[Baking] comes from the heart. It [has been] my passion to bake, since I was a child. Starting from nine years old, I was already baking with my mum.” According to Kangan Institute chief executive Sally Curtain, the competition was an opportunity for students to display their talents. “We are incredibly proud of all our baking students who have stepped up to the challenge of testing and showcasing their skills in this creative competition.”

Detectives recently seized significant quantities of illicit tobacco from a storage facility in Craigieburn as part of an investigation into an organised crime syndicate with involvement in the illicit tobacco market. The warrant was executed at the Hume Highway facility, where detectives allegedly located over 250,000 illicit cigarettes, approximately 1020 kg of loose leaf tobacco, and 70 vapes. In total, the illicit tobacco is believed to have an excise avoidance of about $2.5 million. The investigation remains ongoing. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Baseball legend hits a home run The Deeble family is synonymous with baseball in Melbourne’s west and across the world. Tara Murray chats with Jon Deeble, who has just returned to Australia after winning his sixth Major Baseball League World Series championship.

on Deeble is living the dream as he spends his year chasing the baseball seasons. Deeble, who grew up in Melbourne’s west, was raised around baseball and has continued his father’s legacy. He is currently the coach of the Melbourne Aces in the Australian Baseball League, while also a director with the Los Angeles Dodgers. “I’m sort of on the road for half the year around the world,” he said. “I’m in Melbourne for a couple of months, coaching the Melbourne Aces. “I’ve been doing it for eight years. I come home and do the Melbourne Aces in the off season, and then get back on the road.” Deeble said it can get busy going from one to the other but it’s something he loves. It’s been a long journey for Deeble since his first visit to America in 1993. Coaching in Melbourne at the time, Deeble initially said no to moving to the states when he was first asked. “I was playing with the Melbourne Monarchs down at Altona, then their licence was taken away,” he said. “I played for the Waverley Reds for a couple of years, then the Monarchs were coming back into existence and they were owned by the Western Bulldogs and they were going to be affiliated with the Florida Marlins.

Jon Deeble. (Melbourne Aces)

‘‘

I got to LA and thought, ‘what am I doing as an Australian guy teaching Americans how to play baseball?’ - Jon Deeble

’’

“They asked me to coach the Melbourne Monarchs. From there, John Boles and Rick Freeman, who were both with the Marlins, offered me a job in the states. “The first year I didn’t accept it, as I was working with the Bulldogs, but ended up going over there the next year. “I got to LA and thought, ’what am I doing as an Australian guy teaching Americans how to play baseball?’ “So that is why it started.” Deeble was with the Marlins when he won the world championship in 1997 before he moved to the Boston Red Sox when the Marlins owner bought the Sox. He was there for 16 years and won three more championship rings, before he was head hunted by the Dodgers. “I coached Major League in 2005. I’ve spent a lot of time coaching in the minor leagues and at the same time scouting Asia. “I’ve sort of had multiple jobs.” The Dodgers recently won the World Series Championships to give Deeble his sixth championship ring and second at the Dodgers. Deeble said every ring was different. “At the start it was really exciting and it’s still really exciting, because you want to win,” he said. “My part of it is the Asian department, director of the Asia Pacific. “We had Yoshinobu Yamamoto pitch the second game of the World Series and he dominated, he’s one of the guys that I’ve signed. “Shohei Ohtani is another. We’ve been very active in the Asian region, not just with major league guys, but minor league guys as well. “That part of it is really interesting and exciting.” Deeble said he could have never imagined where his career would take him when he first started out. He said how it has ended up as a dream come true. “It’s all I’ve known for work for the past 33 years,” he said. “Tommy Lasorda, who is a legend of the Los Angeles Dodgers, passed away a couple of years ago. He is the original Mr Dodger and

Left: Jon during his Australian coaching days. (AP Photo/Rick Rycroft) Right: Jon coached the Melbourne Aces to a championship in 2019-20. (Supplied)

he signed a photo of himself and gave it to me in 1978 and it said ’Jon, a future Dodger’. “I’ve still got the photo which is really unreal that I would end up working there as an Australian guy. “It’s been a great ride and I’ve met a lot of people and I have a lot of friends in the states. It’s been a hell of a ride, the Dodgers have been an unbelievable organisation.” It’s no surprise that Deeble entered into baseball when he was young. His father Don Deeble played for Australia and was among the first inducted into the Baseball Australia Hall of Fame. Star Weekly is a sponsor of the Sunshine and

Western Region Sports Club’s Don Deeble award which recognises him. Jon Deeble is also a member of the hall of fame, while his brother Michael Deeble also played for Australia. “I’m sure he would be pretty proud,” Jon said of his father. “He was also one that was very quiet, never one to pat you on the back. “He was very quiet or never gave any advice, he just stayed out of it to be honest.” Deeble said he’s happy with where his career is and doesn’t want to climb any higher up the ladder in the states. Among his achievements is coaching the Australian Olympic baseball team for 19 years.

For now, Deeble is focused on the Aces’ season. It hasn’t been the ideal start with rain affecting several of their games, but the Aces were still sitting in second spot heading into the weekend’s matches which were after deadline. “Expectations were to win everything, win the final and that has not changed,” he said. “The first week we lost our Australian players, they were away on the Australian team that is six players. “That was a little tough, now home for two weeks it will start to tell the tale, we need to get better.” Tuesday, 17 December, 2024 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 7

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Pelvic pain and how to manage it Alex Lopes is a pelvic health physiotherapist, the director of Pelvic Health Melbourne in Altona North, and past national chair of the Australian Physiotherapy Association’s Women’s Men’s and Pelvic Health Group. This week she explores pelvic pain.

Pelvic pain is an umbrella term to describe pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic and intimate areas. The pain is usually caused by: • painful periods (35-50% ) • endometriosis or excessive uterine tissue in the abdominal cavity (10%) • adenomyosis which is when glandular tissue of the uterus goes into the uterine wall (20-50%) • polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) the symptoms of which are possible high testosterone, irregular periods, cystic ovaries, increased hair growth, weight gain, acne (8-12%) • irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) which can cause constipation, diarrhea or both with pain (3.5-10%) • overactive bladder when you get the urge to go more often (12 %). Over time these conditions can develop pain sensitisation where you become more sensitive to pain. How can I fix my pelvic pain? With pelvic pain it is important to have the right team around you and, thankfully, in Australia the government has invested significantly in developing endometriosis

Alex Lopes (standing) and some of the team at Pelvic Health Melbourne.

and pelvic pain clinics. Your pelvic health physiotherapist will be a part of this team. The physical stuff Your pelvic health physiotherapist can help. • How often are you clenching your body? Tension and gripping behaviours can aggravate your pain. Draw a big circle on your hand and every time you see this circle scan you body for tension and take notice. Are you gripping? Where? What percent? LET IT GO! • Ice or heat can also help • Breathing and stretches. Try box breathing –

in for 4, hold for 4 out for 4 and repeat. • Stretches – refer to the Pelvic Pain Australia website for great stretches https://www. pelvicpain.org.au • TENS – electrical current over your painful area to help calm the nerves • Massage, dry needling, spinal mobility, exercises for pain and movement The mental stuff • Try to limit the amount of time you are thinking about your pain • If you do think about your pain try saying to yourself “I will get better”

• Challenge yourself to stop avoiding activities due to pain. Gently push your boundaries • Mindfulness and meditation, whatever works for you to relax and breath The biological Seeing your GP or a pain physician for appropriate pain medication can be the turning point - this is not codeine or opiates but medication that works on the brain and spinal cord to help normalise the pain signals to your body. We wish you well with your pelvic health journey and know that help is now out there.

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8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 December, 2024

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COMMENT

Mind your head: top tips for mental health care and end-of-year work dinners can be stressful for people with dietary restrictions. What you choose to eat is no one’s business but your own. Take time before each event to gently let hosts know of your food needs. You’re not being picky or fussy – you’re being true to yourself.

The end-of-year holiday period can be heaps of fun – an opportunity to catch up with friends and family and generally celebrate the good things in life. But it can also turn into a time of stress, exhaustion and sadness. However, there are ways to manage the different demands at this very busy time of year. Here is our handy guide to taking care of your mental health as 2024 ends and 2025 begins. Don’t be afraid to say no: From work functions to family gatherings, the holiday period can be full of invitations and expectations. Opportunities to catch up with colleagues, friends or relatives can quickly turn into a packed social schedule. When the prospect of a get-together makes you feel more worried than excited, then it’s probably time to gently decline the invitation. Pace yourself: It can be good to realise that you have invitations to lots of different occasions in a short period of time – but it can be exhausting to accept them all! It’s important to protect your energy reserves and your privacy during this period. Think carefully about which invitations to accept. Make sure you schedule some rest time between events. If you’re tired and grumpy, neither you nor anyone else will enjoy themselves. Be kind: When talking to friends and family about holiday season commitments, using polite and considerate language just makes everything flow more smoothly. Declining an invitation to a party can feel challenging – we may feel pressure to please others – but doing so gently and firmly makes the process much easier.

Remember, not everyone has a family: This time of year is full of family catch-ups, but not everyone is connected. For some members of your community, this can be a time of loneliness and isolation. Perhaps think about reaching out and checking in on your acquaintances, making sure they are okay.

Practice self-care: What do you like to do to relax? Perhaps you like to go swimming, or ride a bicycle, or read a book, or do yoga. It’s important to make sure you quarantine time for yourself. Everything works better when you’re rested and refreshed. Watch your wallet: At this time of year it is very easy to spend lots of money, and run up hefty credit card bills. Buying presents for people we care for can make us feel good and fulfilled – but that feeling can turn to sadness and resentment if we drain our bank accounts to do so. It’s a cliché, but it’s not the cost of the gift that counts – it’s the thought. Manage your expectations: Sometimes, with the best will in the world, things don’t go as planned. Trains run late. Cars break down. You can wake up feeling poorly – or just more tired than you expected. Sometimes you’re going to disappoint others,

or disappoint yourself. And you know what? It doesn’t matter. Forgive yourself. Let go of the idea of perfection. Enjoy the moments that happen, and forget about the ones that don’t. Not all family moments are happy moments: The holiday period can be a time of big family gatherings. For some this can be an occasion for joy and togetherness. For others, though, it can be a time of friction and argument. Some family members may hold views with which you disagree. Is a big reunion the right time to mount a challenge, or is it better to simply avoid the subject? Your mental and physical health are more important than once-a-year family obligations. Don’t be afraid to turn down invitations if the thought of attending doesn’t fill you with joy. A chicken is not a vegetable: Family feasts

Reach out when you need to: At this time of year, it’s not unusual to feel lonely or sad. Friends and family can sometimes provide help – but sometimes too it’s good to reach out to others. Head To Health is a free national service that can help you find the help you need, in the right place at the right time. Dedicated mental health counsellors will talk with you and link you with the most appropriate service to provide you with support and care. You can make contact through the website – headtohealth.gov. au -- or make a free call on 1800 595 212 between 8.30am - 5pm weekdays (except public holidays). If it’s urgent, here’s what to do: Head to Health is not a crisis or emergency service. For urgent support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467. If you need immediate help or are at risk of harm to yourself or others, call 000. This article was provided by North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network.

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COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Youth pool party Get ready for the ultimate pool party experience, as the Youth Pool Party is back at Whittlesea Swim Centre on Friday, December 20, from 2.30-4.30 pm. This is your chance to kick off the summer holidays with a splash, and best of all — entry is free for all high school aged students. Whittlesea Swim Centre, 50 Walnut Street, Whittlesea.

Xmas Nightmare Get ready for a free night of spooky thrills and festive fun at Xmas Nightmare on December 20, from 6-8 pm. Enjoy free snacks and scary face-painting, socialise with other young people in the community, and experience a safe, alcohol and smoke-free environment. Ages 12-17 are welcome, and the event is close to public transport and parking. Epping Memorial Hall, 827 High Street, Epping.

Seniors donor day Senior community members are invited to participate in a special donation day at the Bundoora Donor Centre. Held on the first Tuesday of every month from 1 to 3pm, this event is designed to create a welcoming and social environment for seniors while encouraging regular blood and plasma donations.

Christmas craft for kids Make your own Christmas bear in this engaging, craft activity for children of all ages. Get ready to have a jolly good time at Kalkallo North Community Centre on December 18, from 10.30 to 11.30am.  kalkallonorthcc@hume.vic.gov.au or 9356 6520

Community singing group Join the Broadmeadows Community Singers on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. No previous experience needed, just a love of singing.  Sonja, 0429 587 285

Chatty Cafe Join Mill Park library’s Chatty Cafe for a coffee, tea, and biscuits and meet new friends. The cafe is open every Thursday, from 6.30-7.30pm, at 394 Plenty Road, Mill Park.  https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/

This week’s picture is of Maribyrnong mayor Pradeep Tiwari (middle) with performers ‘Discovery Daft Punk Tribute’ ahead of Footscray’s New Year’s Eve celebration. (Damjan Janevski) 449657_01

TAC L2P Program The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) L2P Program is a community-based program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed.  Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371

dance from 7-11pm. All are welcome.  Liz Munro, 0409 712 613, or lizmunro7@gmail.com

Adult education Banksia Gardens Community Services is running adult education courses including an introduction to computers and brushing up on English skills.  9309 8531

Senior citizens meet The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park.  Beulah, 0411 422 398

Homestead walking group Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30–45 minute walk.  https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club The club meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and first Sunday of the month. It also has indoor carpet bowls, bingo, and snooker and on the third Saturday, and a 10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 December, 2024

help learning English or understanding technology? Craigieburn Education and Community Centre is offering free beginner English and computer classes to eligible residents. Small, relaxed and friendly classes, drop in and say hello at 20 Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn.  9308 1477 or https://www.craigieburn.org.au

Whittlesea Historical Society Craft and conversation Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday weekly craft group, from 1-3pm, and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends.  humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Craigieburn Toastmasters Craigieburn Toastmasters supports community members in developing and practising their public speaking, leadership, and communication skills. It meets the first and third Thursday, from 7-9pm, at the Craigieburn Guide Hall, 33 Hamilton Street, Craigieburn.

Education and community centre Do you or someone you know need

The Whittlesea Historical Society welcomes anyone interested in the history of the City of Whittlesea area. A meeting schedule is available on the society’s website.  www.whittleseahistoricalsociety.org.au

Indigenous Community Gardens Westmeadows Indigenous Community Garden members are hosting a monthly open day on the first Saturday of each month, 11am-noon, to showcase the gardens at the corner Toora Drive and Redan Court. All are welcome.  Eva Mazzei, emmmazzei@gmail.com

Craigieburn Residents Association Do you live in Craigieburn and wonder what’s happening re-roads and facilities, or have a concern you’d like to raise so

it can be addressed? Go along to the Craigieburn Residents Association and tell them about it. The association liaises with Hume council, as well as state and federal government organisations to get the job done. They also give annual donations to a local charity each year. They meet on the last Wednesday of the month at Selwyn House, Selwyn Avenue, Craigieburn, 7.30pm.  craigieburnresidents@gmail,com, or 0401 369 311

Community lunch in Roxburgh Park Join the Homestead Team, along with members of the community for a free lunch and make some new friends whilst you’re at it. Lunch will be prepared by the Turkish Women’s Association. The lunch will be held every Wednesday, from 11.30am-1pm, at Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Road, Roxburgh Park.  https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

Menergise men’s walk and talk Every Thursday from 7pm, starting at the Mernda Neighbourhood House. A nightly walk for men to get some exercise and shoot the breeze in the breeze.  0475 454 133

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

ENTERTAINMENT

Christmas fun on the Savannah Werribee Open Range Zoo (WROZ) is the place to be this Christmas Day, with the zoo open from 9am to 5pm with a full schedule of fascinating keeper talks and walking paths. Guests can gander at gorillas, lions, hippos, monkeys and all types of African wildlife doing their thing on the savannah. The iconic safari buses will be shuttling to-and-fro, giving visitors the opportunity to learn about species like giraffe, zebra and antelope. If you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Jabulani– the 3-month-old southern white rhino calf who has become something of a celebrity these days.

Christmas will be jolly, but the fun will last all summer. From January 26, the splash park will be in full swing at Hippo Beach where kids can beat the summer heat and play in the water while looking out at the three gorgeous hippo girls. There will also be a kid-friendly DJ playing jungle beats at hippo beach daily. Every Saturday from January 4 to March 8, WORZ’s iconic Sunset Safari event will also be up and running. Visitors will be able to adventure onto the savannah for an intimate, extended safari tour in the evening and delight in immersive African performances, while enjoying cocktails

and snacks at Hippo Beach or feast with family and friends on a traditional African braai barbecue. Christmas may be a holiday for us, but Zoos Victoria wants the public to know it is important to respect other creatures. While research suggests that anthropomorphising wildlife may increase visitor-animal connection, it risks perpetuating the idea that the animal would make a good pet. Giving animals in captivity the control and choice is key to maintaining their positive welfare. Jaidyn Kennedy

Festive Sandra is lighting up Melton For 30 years, Melton local Sandra Brogan has spread Christmas cheer around her neighbourhood with an annual Christmas display at her home. The annual display started when Sandra’s dad started decorating for Christmas with some blow-up reindeer and Father Christmas at his home, and when he moved to Melton, he continued to do it for the kids in the neighbourhood. Three decades later, Sandra continues the tradition. “One Christmas Eve, we had nearly 300 people come,” Sandra said. “You can’t get a park in our street or the street opposite me. “They park around the corner and walk back. “It’s really quite nice.” The theme changes yearly – this year’s is white Christmas – but one consistent part of it is her daughter, Kelli, performing carols. “Growing up we didn’t have expensive decorations,” Kelli said. =“As a family we made decorations, always had a Christmas tree and always celebrated together. “We would watch Christmas movies and talk about how cool it must be in America to see the houses decorated.” Last year, she released her Christmas song, Joy When we Believe, to celebrate the holidays. “My family’s love of Christmas was the inspiration for my song Joy When We Believe,” Kelli said. “The lyrics describe the pleasure and wonder we see in children at Christmas time and the togetherness of families at Christmas. “Everything I experienced as a child and even now at Christmas is what I tried to capture in the lyrics of that song.” Kelli said she loves performing at her mum’s house for Christmas. “In the past, when I was living at mum’s, I performed most nights during December,” she said. “I will perform this weekend and every night from next Thursday through and including Christmas Eve. “It is always so much fun as the community enjoys the live music and the atmosphere it

Sandra Brogan has been doing a Christmas display for 30 years at her home in Melton. (Damjan Janevski) 449690_01

creates while looking at the lights. “Some even have requests, as they come back each year.” Besides the display and musical performance by Kelli, Sandra has also prepared a surprise for the children. “On Christmas Eve, we have characters

coming,” she said. “This year, we have Bluey and Bingo, Father Christmas, The Grinch, Mother Christmas is coming. “We’re also having Olaf and Elsa from Frozen.” Faith Macale

Öznur’s mesmerising showcase on display

Öznur Ates’ magical exhibition is now up at the Town Hall Broadmeadows gallery. (Damjan Janevski) 449465_02

A culmination of nearly 17 years worth of work, Öznur Ates’ latest exhibition is an invitation to experience something magical. Showcased at the Town Hall Broadmeadows gallery, Mesmerising Moments casts a spell on viewers through an intricate play of colours on water. Ates makes the art of Ebru — a traditional Turkish artform of aqueous surface design — her own. She combines contemporary ideas with strong traditional techniques to harness the expressive qualities of flowers. As with many decorative art forms, Ms Ates uses floral patterns to build unseen connections and develop communication between oneself and others. For her, each flower has a voice of its own that

speaks to individuals with a unique spiritual language. “When I was creating my work, my focus was on my identity, and my feelings,” Ates said. Even though her brush was guided by an instinct to express herself, according to Ates when people see her art, they’ll see themselves reflected too. “I think everyone will see a part they can resonate with,” she said. While this exhibition is not Ates’ first, it is her first local showcase. “I live in Meadow Heights and I’m excited people in [my] community will get to see it,” she said. The exhibition also showcases a video work made for the 2023 Hume Winter lights festival. Mesmerising Moments is now open for visitors, and will run until March 9.

Zookeepers are ready for Christmas at Hippo Beach. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 448518_04

Sunshine to welcome Lunar New Year Set the date in your calendar’s now, as the busy Sunshine shopping precinct on Hampshire Road is set to be overrun by The Sunshine Lunar New Year Festival on Sunday, January 26. Presented by the Sunshine Business Association, the free multicultural event runs every year, celebrating the lunar calendar, a time of renewal and for friends and family to come together to celebrate the start of a new year. The Sunshine Lunar New Year Festival or Tét Festival will bring the culturally diverse community together in a safe and fun environment. A huge day of free family fun, live entertainment, children’s rides, street performers, music, dancing, street food, face-painting, magical Lion and Dragon dancing, red-pockets and firecrackers ending with spectacular fireworks. A large performance stage with seating area will burst with exciting musical acts, live multicultural bands and dance groups will entertain the community and showcase their cultural heritage and talented musicians. A wide array of street food stalls of many nations, super fun small and large children’s rides including the massive Ferris Wheel, face-painting, showbags, street-performers cultural kid’s activity zone will take over Hampshire Road. Sunshine’s favourite local sporting groups will also attend and present fun kid’s activities. A vibrant Lion and Dragon dance complete with long string fireworks will take place at 6pm at the stage ending with a traditional Lunar New Year display of fireworks at 9pm. Hampshire Road, between Devonshire and Foundry Roads will be closed to traffic on the day.

The 2024 event was packed with action. (Kenny Ho)

Tuesday, 17 December, 2024 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 11

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Management and Staﬀ at Network Classifieds would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year. THE CLASSIFIEDS DEPARTMENT WILL BE CLOSING ON MONDAY 23RD DECEMBER 2024. WE WILL BE OPEN ON FRIDAY 27TH DECEMBER AND MONDAY 30TH DECEMBER AND WILL RESUME NORMAL HOURS FROM FRIDAY 3RD JANUARY 2025 202448002-MC48-24

12 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 December, 2024

SPORTS QUIZ 1. The Mighty Jills compete for Australia in which sport? 2. Former AFL players James Hird, Gary Ablett Snr and Nathan Buckley all wore what number guernsey? 3. A standard game of table tennis is a race to what score? 4. Ronnie O’Sullivan and Stephen Hendry are famous players of what sport?

5. Who is the current interim coach of the Matildas? 6. Which high jump technique was popularised by a US gold medal winner at the 1968 Olympics? 7. Originating in Finland, which humorous hobby sport is most popular with teenage girls? 8. The PWHL has announced teams will play how many regular-season games, an increase from their inaugural year? 9. The festive 2024 rom-com Christmas in the Spotlight is inspired by the real-life relationship of which famous athlete? 10. Before starting her career as a rugby player, NZ powerhouse Portia Woodman played which other team sport professionally?

Patrick Dempsey

13. How many goals did the Brisbane Lions score in their loss to North Melbourne in the AFLW grand final?

Ronnie O'Sullivan

14. Basketballer Bryce Cotton scored how many points in an NBL game in the Perth Wildcats’ win over New Zealand? 15. True or false: Australia finished ahead of France in the Paris 2024 Olympics medal tally. 16. Which Aussie Rules club was known as the Prince Imperials in 1880–81, named in honour of Napoleon III’s only son? 17. South African-born Brydon Carse took 10 wickets in a match representing which Test cricket nation? 18. Which Kookaburras legend has retired from hockey with a record 451 international appearances for Australia?

11. Which Australian racing driver made his Formula One debut in the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi?

19. Grey’s Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey finished in what position in the 2015 Le Mans 24 Hour motor race?

12. Which Australian fast bowler missed the second Test against India due to a side strain injury?

20. Gout Gout is the name of a 16-year-old Australian competing in which track and field discipline?

21. Olympic medallist skateboarder Arisa Trew was recently given which pet animal as a reward for her win? 22. The International Cricket Council recently criticised Australia for refusing to play which nation? 23. How many Matildas players scored their first international goals in their first friendly match against Chinese Taipei? 24. Which Australian city recently withdrew its bid for the 2030 Gay Games? 25. Jerry West is the player silhouette featured in the logo of which sporting league?

26. The NHL has a new team in 2024/25 based in which US state? 27. How many teams are competing in the 2024/25 WNBL season? 28. How many games did the North Melbourne AFL Women’s side lose in the 2024 season? 29. The late Neale Fraser was a champion in which sport? 30. With her 2024 win, how many consecutive Best and Fairest awards has AFLW player Monique Conti now won at Richmond and the Western Bulldogs?

2012

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1. Ice hockey 2. Five 3. 11 4. Snooker 5. Tom Sermanni 6. Fosbury flop 7. Hobby horsing 8. 30 (up from 24) 9. Travis Kelce 10. Netball 11. Jack Doohan 12. Josh Hazlewood 13. One 14. 59 15. True 16. Footscray/Western Bulldogs 17. England 18. Eddie Ockenden 19. 22nd 20. Sprinting 21. Duck 22. Afghanistan 23. Three 24. Melbourne 25. NBA 26. Utah 27. Eight 28. None 29. Tennis 30. Seven

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Tuesday, 17 December, 2024 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 13

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

easy

6 3 1 7 9 2 5 8 9 1 5 2 8 1 2 7 4 9 5 8 9 1 3 3 6 1 9 7 3 5 6 8 medium

2 4 5 8 9 2 8 7 3 5

5 4

10 11 12 13

8 6 3 1 7 9 2 4 5 2 4 7 5 6 8 3 9 1 1 5 9 3 4 2 8 6 7 3 8 5 4 1 7 9 2 6 7 2 6 8 9 3 1 5 4 4 9 1 2 5 6 7 3 8 6 7 8 9 2 4 5 1 3 5 3 2 6 8 1 4 7 9 9 1 4 7 3 5 6 8 2

7 6 2 4 5 8 9 1 3 3 5 9 1 2 7 8 4 6 4 1 8 6 3 9 5 7 2 1 3 7 8 9 6 4 2 5 9 2 6 3 4 5 7 8 1 5 8 4 2 7 1 6 3 9 8 4 3 5 6 2 1 9 7 2 9 5 7 1 4 3 6 8 6 7 1 9 8 3 2 5 4

12 words: Very good

E E

14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 December, 2024

No. 216

D R I F T

5 LETTERS ABOUT ABOVE ADAGE AFTOS AMASS ARENA AVERT BALDS CANED DEBUT DIRER DRIFT DROOP ENTRY ERASE FUSSY GONER GORED GRASS HALTS INANE

4 LETTERS CEDE DABS DUET EVES GLAD HEAT LATE LENS LETS NEST REDO REDS TRIP TSAR TYPE

LAGER LATHS LETUP LUNAR NICER NIECE NOISY PIKED RADAR RASPS REACT REFER SCENE SCOUT SEEDY SENSE SNORE SPORE STATE TASTE TONES TRACT

TREES TRUED YESES

MISTAKE NONSTOP VOODOOS

6 LETTERS ORANGE ORGANS RESIDE STRODE

8 LETTERS GALACTIC NAMELESS SENTENCE UNDERDOG

7 LETTERS ANORAKS BELLIED LEAGUED

11 LETTERS ABOMINATION GRANDSTANDS

20-12-24

No. 320 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

S E E D Y

N O D E A M U S T E N S E G G E S A S S

3 LETTERS APT CPA EKE ERA EVE GEE HUE ION ITS LEG LIT NEE OLD RAN RUB RUE SOS TAR TEA TEN TOE URN VIE

code, coded, coincide, COINCIDED, coined, coned, dice, diced, died, dine, dined, diode, done, iced, iodide, iodine, node

4 6 3 5 8 2 1 7 9 9 2 5 6 1 7 8 4 3 7 1 8 3 4 9 5 6 2 5 3 9 1 7 6 4 2 8 1 7 2 8 3 4 9 5 6 8 4 6 2 9 5 7 3 1 2 5 7 9 6 8 3 1 4 3 9 4 7 2 1 6 8 5 6 8 1 4 5 3 2 9 7

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”. Today’s Aim: 8 words: Good

WORDFIT

9-LETTER WORD

S A

17 words: Excellent

13 23

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

hard

A S

22 19

5 25

26 14

medium

easy

5x5

5 6 8 1 2 6 5 2

6 7

V H Q DWL Z J F P MK U

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Thief (9) Cowboy literary genre (7) Assign (5) Extraordinary thing (10) Formerly Persia (4) Comparative conclusions (9) Thoroughgoing, exhaustive (2,5) Lowest point (5) Rotorcraft (10) Suppress (9) Painting of the countryside (9) Wetter in terms of weather (7) Redolent (7) Sugary (5) Of equal value (2,3) To dispense, to – out (4)

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Rule (3) Request form (11) Determination (7) Bestowed (7) Negatively charged subatomic particle (8) Reddish metal (6) Tavern (3) Means (11) Regions (11) Possess (3) Eight-legged animal (6) Resonant (8) Realm of an independent Islamic chieftain (7) Grain from cassava (7) Leader of a cause (11) Prosecute (3)

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No. 216

QUICK CROSSWORD

QUICK QUIZ

Riga is the capital of which country?

Which Brontë sister wrote the 1847 novel Agnes Grey?

Actor Ryan Reynolds (pictured) is co-owner of which UK soccer team?

And under what pseudonym was it published?

Which film won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2001?

In what century was Genghis Khan born?

Where in the human body does carpal tunnel occur?

How many times was England's King Henry VIII married?

In chess, how many different game pieces are there?

10 Which Chinese city is situated at the mouth of the Yangtze River?

ANSWERS: 1. Latvia 2. Wrexham FC 3. Gladiator 4. Wrist 5. Six 6. Six 7. Anne Brontë 8. Acton Bell 9. 12th century 10. Shanghai

No. 216

L A G E R D E B U T T R A C T A B O V E A R E N A R A D A R B A L D S I N A N E T O N E S H U E I T S L E T U P G E E S T R O D E D I R E R R E D S L E A G U E D N E E G L A D R E D O R A S P S R U B H E A T G A L A C T I C A N O R A K S M I S T A K E L A T E T E N N A M E L E S S D R I F T E V E S C E D E S N E S T N O N S T O P T S A R A F T O S O R A N G E A P T T R U E D L E G I O N N O I S Y S N O R E A V E R T S C O U T N I C E R D R O O P S E N S E Y E S E S S E E D Y

SUDOKU

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MOTOR

RATINGS Looks: 8/10 Performance: 7/10 Safety: 7/10 Thirst: 5/10 Practicality: 7/10 Comfort: 7/10 Tech: 8/10 Value: 6/10

From the get-go there’s a hint of excitement from the Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce Plug-in Hybrid. (Pictures: Supplied)

Alfa plug-in a flash of the future By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring In the ideal automobile trifecta of performance, economy and little nasty pollution Alfa Romeo has its money on plug-in hybrid electric vehicle technology, with the Tonale Plug-in Hybrid Q4 carrying top weight. The new edition to the premium SUV line-up has form – sprinting from rest to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds, the ability to travel up to 60 kilometres on electric power alone with 34g/km CO2 tailpipe emissions. Top speed is 135km/h in full electric mode and 206km/h in hybrid. While the figures speak for themselves, like SUVs of this ilk, the Veloce spec vehicle comes at a hefty price – from $77,500, plus on-road costs. Options of 20-inch alloys add $1500, or two premium paint finishes $1600 or $2500 respectively. Equipped with the Alfa Q4 all-wheel drive system, the front wheels are powered by the petrol engine, the rear wheels by an electric motor, providing up to 208kW of power. The car takes advantage of a 7.4kW AC on-board charger and a Type 2 Smart Charging Port that enables home AC or public AC charging. The Tonale Veloce Plug-in Hybrid Q4 is covered by a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty and Alfa Romeo roadside assist support package.

Styling On the outside there’s plenty going on with Dark Miron body kit with matte inserts, Dark Miron ‘Scudetto’ front grille finish, Veloce badging and in line with the ‘electrification’, Alfa’s historic logo has been reinterpreted in an elegant elettro-biscione serigraphy on the dark tinted privacy glass left rear window. Automatic LED matrix headlamps with adaptive beam and dynamic turn indicators share space with gloss black painted power folding heated exterior mirrors with Italian flag. The Tonale Plug-in Hybrid rolls on 19-inch diamond cut alloy wheels with stand-out Brembo red brake callipers.

Interior Inside the cabin is luxury all round with perforated black leather-accented seats with embroidered Alfa Romeo logo and dark grey double stitching, plus dark grey accent stitching on front centre armrest and door trims. Front seats are heated and ventilated. Aluminium door sills, steering wheelmounted shift paddles and floor pedals add a sporting touch, while customisable ambient lighting has found its place on board from post-September models.

for up to 60km electric range or in tandem with the petrol engine. A 7.4kW AC on-board charger and a Type 2 Smart Charging Port enables domestic AC charging or public AC charging. Alfa Romeo says it takes less than two-and-a-half hours to fully charge the battery from the on-board system. The test car battery was topped up by 20 per cent in 90 minutes through a home three-pin plug set-up. The local Type 2 public charger required a BYO cable. Sadly, this Tonale was bereft of one. The Tonale Plug-in Hybrid has earned a five-star Euro safety rating. Nothing from ANCAP yet. Autonomous driving features include active blind spot assist with rear cross traffic alert, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane support system, and driver behaviour alert. There’s a 360-degree camera with dynamic guidelines, front, rear and side parking sensors and Magic Park, plus traffic sign recognition and intelligent speed control.

that point the way to an incomparable driving experience. From the get-go there’s a hint of excitement from the Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce Plug-in Hybrid, with its instant torque electric motor. And there’s no letting up with a surprising range of advanced automobile systems on offer. For example, with its rotary drive selector, it is capable of calling on Dynamic, Natural or Advanced efficiency (DNA), plus ESC Off modes, to arouse the interest of any driver. Dynamic has the petrol engine and electric motor combining for sporty performance; Natural produces optimum power with minimum fuel consumption; and Advanced Efficiency uses electric power only for low emissions in city traffic. ESC Off has the driver in full mechanical control of the vehicle in Dynamic mode. Alfa Link stumps up the suspension with variable damping for optimum handling and comfort, and rear axle geometry comes into action on fast cornering. Then there’s e-Coasting Descent, which intervenes in place of the exhaust brake, even when the throttle is released, to recover energy when slowing, even when the brake pedal is released.

Driving

Summary

Alfa Romeo has attached to the Tonale Plug-in Hybrid that much (over)used term DNA to describe a series of driver assistance systems

Alfa Romeo has taken the Tonale Veloce Plug-in beyond the range of the run-of-the-mill petrol/ electric hybrid.

Infotainment A 10.25-inch touchscreen taps into infotainment and navigation, while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto join Alfa Connect services and DAB+ digital radio being fed through a supreme 465W 14-speaker Harman/ Kardon sound system. There is a wireless charging pad and front and rear USB-A and -C ports.

Engines/transmissions The Tonale Plug-in Hybrid Q4 powertrain combines a 132kW 1.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated with a six-speed automatic transmission providing traction to the front axle with an electric motor supplying 90kW of peak power and 250Nm of torque to the rear axle. A 306V 15.5kWh lithium-ion battery is good

Safety

Tuesday, 17 December, 2024 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 15

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Hot cricket season in full swing The summer season is finally heating up and with it there has been some cracker matches including on Saturday. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting the some of the action.

Sunshine United’s Matthew Sipala. 449507_01

Rivergum’s Jarrod Bannister. 449509_08

Sunbury’s Jack McGann. 449516_08

Jacana’s Brett Jensen and Dhanushka Abeynayake. 449511_03

Thomastown United’s Rohan Desai. 449509_01

Keilor Park’s Zachary Cotter. 449517_03 16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 December, 2024

Craigieburn’s James Portou. 449507_08

Point Cook Centrals’ Dimantha Fernando. 449517_07

Grand United’s Faez Ahmed Qureshi. 449516_03

Melton Centrals. 449511_01

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SPORT

Greenvale Kangaroos face a tough T20 period The Greenvale Kangaroos are glad the Victorian Premier Cricket T20 rounds have come to an end. The Kangaroos went winless in the T20 part of the season that was played across three Saturdays, with the first of those days washed out. Coaching director Ash Cavigan said the shortest format of the game hadn’t come at a good time for them. “It can go either way with the T20s,” he said. “We’re not sure our group is at the stage. “It’s about cricket IQ as well as the skills. We’ve learned a lot and there’s still a lot more to learn.” Cavigan said looking at a lot of the stats it was the power plays and surges where they struggled the most and they would look at that information deeply. On Saturday, the Kangaroos faced Melbourne and Casey South Melbourne. Cavigan said they lost the game against

Melbourne in the first four overs of the game after not getting the power play right. Melbourne put on 0-50 in those first four overs and went on to make 3-170. It was all single wicket takers for the Kangaroos. The Kangaroos finished 8-115 from their 20 overs. Odil Perera top scored with 33. Cavigan said they let slip the game against Casey South Melbourne, which would have given them their second win for the season. The Kangaroos batted after winning the toss, making 6-154 from their overs. Will Luxton top scored with 56 while Perera made another 30. Casey South Melbourne ended up hitting the winning runs with three balls remaining, finishing 4-155. It was single wicket takers again for the Kangaroos. Cavigan said they take some positives out of the T20 games.

“For some guys it can be a circuit breaker,” he said. “Odil Perera made a couple of 30s batting at number five and he hadn’t batted in their position so it’s something we’ll look at. “Musa Hussain was back in the wickets and we need him bowling well.” The Kangaroos will face Northcote in a one-dayer on Saturday in the last game before the Christmas break. Northcote sits in 13th spot. Cavigan said they want to continue to keep building. “We need to take that next step,” he said. “We need to get more contributions more often and get the basics right more often. “I think the guys are feeling really positive about it and hopefully throughout the four teams we can get a couple of games on the right side.” Tara Murray

Musa Hussain. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 445369_02

T20s continue

South Morang women’s premiership team. (Supplied)

Lions’ premiership joy By Tara Murray South Morang capped off a landmark season with the North Metro Cricket Association Lorraine Ireland women’s Lenore Smith Shield spring premiership. The Lions claimed their second women’s premiership in stunning fashion after a demolition job with the ball against Pascoe Vale Central earlier this month. Lions captain Jessica Parker said the premiership was the icing of the cake for the club’s women’s program this season. “It’s very exciting,” she said. “We worked pretty hard in the off season to try and grow our program. “We wanted to have two women’s teams and have a girls team for the first time at South Morang. “We’ve been able to have two women’s sides and two girls teams in the space of three years. “Winning the premiership was icing on top. It meant a lot to all of us.” Parker said they’ve worked closely with the girls teams, with many of those players

stepping up to play in the women’s side. She said they wanted to have that pathway for the juniors that were coming through. Having won the division 3 premiership a couple of seasons ago in 2022, the Lions this season had put a focus on claiming the division 2 premiership. Parker said they knew that they would likely play in division 1 the following season, so they wanted to step up on a winning note. “We thought it was a good opportunity to get the division 2 premiership,” she said. “We thought we had the team to do it. “We are a well balanced team and a good team. We ticked the box and the goal was achieved.” In the grand final, the Lions faced Pascoe Vale Central. Parker said the performance was one that they could only have dreamt of. The bowlers got the job done, with Pascoe Vale bowled out for just 58. Natasha Kiper and Kristy Carbis took four wickets each for the Lions. Parker said the bowling group did a brilliant

job to put them in that position. She said the message during the break was to take their time and be sensible. The Lions finished 1-59 in the 21 overs. Carbis top scored with 26 not out, while Parker was unbeaten on 22. “We wanted to lose as few wickets as possible,” Parker said. “It was great.” Parker paid tribute to coach Mick Kay who made sure they got the basics right each week. Parker said they were looking forward to the challenge of going into the top grade. The summer season starts in early January. “We have work to do,” she said. “Heidelberg, Hurstbridge and Epping are the teams to beat. “We won the division 3 premiership against Heidelberg and they have gone on to have a lot of success and set the benchmark. “We’ll train hard and we will face them at some stage. We’ll set goals for division 1.” As well as growth in the women’s program, the club has grown to more than 20 teams. Parker said the club was looking to fundraise to be able to improve their training facilities to cater for the growth.

There was plenty of action in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition on Tuesday night. All teams played their third round matches on Tuesday night with some teams in action for the first time. In the Benaud group, PEGS beat Maribyrnong Park St Marys. The Lions were bowled out for 71 in 16.2 overs. Chancey Bandara took 4-13 for PEGS. The chase lasted 12.1 overs, with PEGS easily getting the wins and finishing 2-75. Airport West St Christophers also got a win, beating Keilor Park. The Eagles made 6-169 before bowling the Devils out for 89. In the Border group, Gellibrand and Yarraville Club both had wins against Seddon and Werribee Centrals respectively. Seddon made 8-150 against Gellibrand with Tom Foulds top scoring with 56. Gellibrand put on 90 for the first wicket to set up the win, finishing 5-151. The Clubbers made quick work of the Centurions bowling them out for 56. The Clubbers got the runs in nine overs, finishing 2-57. In the Bradman group, Doutta Stars got the win against Footscray United. The Bulldogs made 9-121 with Sanju Jayasekara top scoring with 37. The Stars got the runs in 18 overs, finishing 4-123, while West Coburg Andrews defeated Aberfeldie. In the Hassett group, Oak Park St Francis de Sales was too good for the Greenvale Kangaroos. Oak Park made 2-192 before restricting the Kangaroos to 7-121. Westmeadows got the points in the other match after Jacana forfeited. In the Lawrie group, St Albans and Sydenham Hillside both had big wins against Sunbury and East Keilor respectively. In the Ponting group, Deer Park and Sunshine United got wins against Laverton and Bellbridge respectively. In the Taylor group, Sunshine got the win against the Druids. The Wizards finished their overs at 9-98 with the Crows making 6-99 in reply. Grand United forfeited its match to Keilor. In the Waugh group, Point Cook Centrals beat Altona North. Altona North made 8-96 from its overs. The Sharks made 5-99 in reply in nearly 15 overs. Newport Digman also got the points, beating Williamstown Imperials.

Tuesday, 17 December, 2024 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 17

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Thomastown players seek more consistency Thomastown has added some more experience as it seeks to close the gap between its best and worst in the Northern Football League division 2 competition. The Bears played finals this year, but proved no match for the top sides who had their measure, and they were knocked out in the first week of finals. Co-coach Sash Spiroski said that was their biggest focus heading into 2025. “The biggest thing is we have beaten a team in the top three the last few years,” he said. “That is one of the major things that we want to tick off. “We want that consistency and have had the ups and downs of three wins and then three losses. “We need to be more consistent across 18 rounds.” The Bears signed the majority of their playing list while they were still playing this year, with just one player departing.

Spiroski said having locked in the playing group made things a lot easier come the pre-season. He said it being their second season as co-coaches as well also helped. “It has been good and like all pre-seasons it has been tough,” he said. “We’ve had solid numbers which has been good. “With one under our belts you know what to expect and what to do. It’s been easier this time round.” Spiroski said they had looked to fill holes they believed they had in their squad, adding a handful of players. The club has announced four new signings on social media. Spiroski said they had looked to bring in some players who had experience in big games. “Having people with experience on grand final day, that helps,” he said. “When you get some of that experienced aspect it only makes the side better.”

Deakyn Smith is the biggest signing for the Bears so far. Smith is Victorian Football League-listed with the Casey Demons. “He is great mates with Youseph Dib and mates with some of the other boys,” Spiroski said. “He came down and had a look and he liked what he saw and the vision of the football club. “He came down to the first couple of trainings before his VFL training sessions. He’ll be a huge asset for the club in 2025.” Ruck Blake Ross and Luke Baniowski both cross from West Coburg, which has played off in three straight Essendon District Football League division 1 grand finals. James Guicas crossed from Keilor Park where he was a goalkicker for the side. The Bears kick off their 2025 season on April 5 against Panton Hill. Tara Murray

Deakyn Smith. (Rob Carew) 325648_36

Duff-Tytler’s big decision Heckmann goes big

By Tara Murray Calder Cannons rising star Cooper Duff-Tytler had a tough decision to make. The talented youngster from Woodend, was just at home on the basketball court as he was on the footy field. He had represented Australia in basketball at junior level, while the small glimpses on the footy field had him part of the AFL futures game on grand final day on the MCG. When he was selected in the AFL Academy, which includes 30 of the top players in the country, Duff-Tytler decided he needed to make a decision. “I think my love for the game and ultimately i chose what I thought would give me the best opportunities and most successful in,” he said. “Ultimately it came down to what I wanted to do every day in my future. “I could have continued playing both. For me I didn’t want to keep kicking along doing both and separating my time and trying to keep up with the others. “I wanted to put all my time into one sport and try to excel and get the best out of myself. “Hopefully I’ll utilise my opportunities and give myself the best chance to be successful next November.” Duff-Tytler said he couldn’t have imagined being part of the AFL Academy 12 months ago. He said while it was something that you always see others part of, it wasn’t something that had crossed his mind due to basketball. The group earlier this month held its first camp with Duff-Tytler saying it was a really good achievement. “It was a good experience to come together for the first time and meet all the boys,” he said. “It’s a good group of boys and I think we all got along well. “I’ve got a back niggle at the moment which kept me out of training, but I was able do to do some running on the side and all the off field side experience. “Getting to talk to some of Geelong’s AFL boys and just education around high performance and nutrition. “Got to do some club interviews at the end which was exciting.” Selection in the academy was on the back of his futures game performance and his back part of the Coates Talent League season. He made his debut in round 12 and played six matches for the Cannons, named in the best in four of them. “The last three months after basketball ended I got to play some consistent footy with Woodend-Hesket as well as Calder,“ he said. “It was good just to get out there and put some games together and gel with the different teams that I was playing with. “It was exciting to play down at Woodend 18 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 December, 2024

Cooper Duff-Tytler. (Calder Cannons)

and make the senior debut for the local club as well as getting to put on the Cannons jersey with the boys I’ve done a fair bit of training with over the past three months. “Hopefully a lot more to come” With both schools footy at PEGS and Cannons commitments, Duff-Tytler said he was hoping to sneak in a couple of games in with his local side next season. As part of the academy, the players will train with an AFL club during the pre-season. Duff-Tytler will train with Essendon in the

new year to allow him to recover from his back complaint. He’s hoping that next pre-season he’ll be doing a full AFL pre-season. “Watching the draft this year, with some mates and some people I play with… Just the motivation and reinforcement that it’s an exciting 12 months ahead,“ he said. “If you put your head down and do the work you can get the results at the end ultimately what I’m aiming for come November {in the draft].

South Morang’s Karl Heckmann was the star of the show in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association summer smash competition on Tuesday night. Playing in the Mash Shield pool A competition against Hurstbridge,Heckmann made 106 not out off 55 balls. His innings included six fours and eight sixes. The Lions finished with 1-170. Hurstbridge never got going and was bowled out for 70 with just two players scoring double figures. Jamie Bellam and Ricky Lee took three wickets each for the Lions In the other match, Panton Hill was too good for Laurimar. Panton Hill made 7-122 with James Wigginton finishing with 61 not out at the top of the order. Bailey Lawrenson took two wickets for the Power. The Power finished 7-122 in reply. Rian Boddy top scored with 41. In pool B, Rivergum opened its account with a big win against Mill Park. The Kookas made 6-162 with Jarrod Bannister top scoring with 79 off 44 balls. The Tigers finished 5-119 in reply. Dale Rigby top scored with 61. Dennis also got a win on Tuesday night beating Thomastown United. Thomastown United made 7-113 from its overs with Rohan Desai top scoring with 41. Dennis got the runs with more than four overs remaining, finishing 3-116. Epping suffered a second straight loss in the Barclay pool A. Facing Research Eltham Collegians, the Pingers made 6-105. Todd Hughes scored with 36 not out in the middle order. The Collegians made the runs with ease, finishing 2-106. Diamond Creek made it two from two in the other pool A grade, beating Riverside. North Eltham Wanderers and Riverside will play this Tuesday before the competition returns in January. In pool B, Bundoora’s first match of the competition ended in a loss to Heidelberg. Heidelberg made 6-138, with the Bulls bowled out for 93 in reply. Clayton McCartney top scored for the Bulls with 38. The Bulls were set to be back in action on Sunday, after deadline, against local rival Bundoora United. In the Money Shield pool A, Montmorency beat Lower Eltham and Eltham was too good for Greensborough.

Kooks survive scare from Thomastown United Rivergum survived its biggest scare of the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Mash Shield season on Saturday to remain undefeated. Thomastown United pushed the Kookas all the way on day two of their match, but the Kookas experience shone late to hold on. A run out in the final over was the difference in the end. Kookas coach Corey Altis said Thomastown United kept coming at them. Chasing 222, Thomastown United was in control with the bat at 0-87. Altis said it was very similar to their innings when they got off to a flier. Things then started to turn in favour of the Kookas as they took 5-14. “We were able to break through and take some wickets,” he said. “The wickets didn’t come easy and we had to really work into it.

Corey Altis. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 449509_10

“Matt Perri and Jarrod Bannister bowled some tight overs in the middle.” Dulanga Lakmal was keeping United in the game and was batting with patience.

It took a terrific caught and bowled from Sean Neary to end his day nine runs from victory. It meant the game went down to the final over with the Kookas needing one wicket. They got it on the second last ball to bowl United out for 219. Bannister took four wickets for the Kookas while Suvra Saha took two. Altis said matches like these were the ones they needed to help prepare them for finals. The win takes them to a 7-0 record and nine points clear at the top of the ladder. Having moved from the North Metro Cricket Association in the off season, it’s been a season of the unknown for the Kookas. “We didn’t know anything about the opposition,” Altis said. “If you’d said at the start of the season we would be on top of the ladder, we would have taken it.

“We’re not the finished product and we’ll work week to week to get better and get contributions from everyone and win games.” The Kookas still have Gary Bell and Paul Unkles to come back into the side as well after Christmas. They face Mernda in a one-dayer this Saturday before the Christmas break. The two sides then face off in the first round after the break. “They’re starting to move up the ladder,” Altis said. “They’re dangerous with both the bat and ball. “We’ll find out a bit about them in the next couple of games. I think they will be up there.” In other results, Mernda beat Hurstbridge, South Morang beat Mill Park, Thomastown lost to Dennis and Laurimar beat Panton Hill. Tara Murray

Sports shorts Big V The Sunbury Jets and Hume City Broncos will start their Big V championship seasons with a local derby. The Big V season will kick off on March 29, with the Jets to host the Broncos women’s and men’s sides. Both Broncos sides will then back it up the next day at home against the Pakenham Warriors. The rest of the fixture was set to be released later last week.

AFLW The AFLW draft was set to be held on Monday night, after deadline. Several Northern Knights and Calder Cannons were among the hopefuls hoping to hear their names called out. For all the details, head to www.starweekly. com.au

Northern FNL

Benjamin Radford. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 449507_03

Eagles close in on a win By Tara Murray Craigieburn has put itself in prime position to get its first win on the board in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division. In the final game before the Christmas break, the Eagles host Sunshine United which is also searching for its first win. After day one, it’s in the favour of the Eagles. Eagles coach Sean Bathman said it was a performance they had been working towards. “I’m really happy,” he said. “They bowled really well and we got off to a good start with the bat. “We’ve worked pretty hard at training on being competitive and it has come all together. “It would be fantastic if we could get the win.” The Eagles won the toss and decided to send the Tigers in. It proved to be the right decision as the Tigers were bowled out for 139. While the Tigers lower order added some respectability to the score late, Bathman said anytime you keep a side to under 150 you are

happy despite late runs added to the total. Benjamin Radford was the pick of the bowlers for the Eagles, taking 5-51. The Eagles then had to face 12 overs at the end of day one. They managed to get through unscathed and will resume at 0-33. Nathan Pappin will resume at 14 not out and Dilum Weerarathna on eight not out. “It’s always good when the openers get through,” he said. “It’s always a weird time. “You have 12 overs to bat but you can’t win the game, but you can set it up having not lost any wickets overnight.” Bathman said they need to apply themselves in the same way on day two. He said this was like a 12 point game. Bathman, who is in his first season as coach of the side, said he was happy with how they were progressing. “If we stick to the plans and do what we can to be successful,” he said. “We’re building every week and nothing is a certainty in cricket.

“The standards are better as well. We’re really looking forward to what we can do next week and hopefully get our first win of the year.” Elsewhere, Westmeadows piled on the runs against Yarraville Club. Led by captain-coach Donovan Pell the Warriors made 9-302 from their 80 overs. Pell made 156 before being run out. In the Steve McNamara Shield, Tullamarine has already conceded first innings points against West Coburg St Andrews. The Demons were bowled out for 66 with the Redbacks making 5-120 before sending the Demons back in. The Demons will resume at 1-34. Meanwhile in the Evans Clark Shield, Roxburgh Park will resume at 0-11 in reply to Sunshine YCW’s 5-247. In the Russell Pollock Shield, Jacana made 229 against Melton Centrals, while Donnybrook is 2-45 in reply to Moonee Ponds’ 93.

The Northern Football Netball League has appointed Michael Peacock as chair for the next four years. The league’s board appointed Peacock as chair in a board meeting, replacing Scott Walker, who will remain on the board in 2025. Peacock said it was an honour to accept the chair’s role after serving on the board for the previous three years and gave credit to Walker for his contribution in the role. “My main objective as chair is to support the ongoing professionalism and leadership of the board and staff, which will help the NFNL remain as a premier sporting league, on and off the football field and netball court,” he said.

FV Lalor United has announced a new goalkeeper for next year’s FV state league 2 north-west season. Phillip Petrovski joins Lalor with more than 10 years of experience at National Premier League level including with clubs such as Heidelberg United,Northcote City and most recently Moreland Zebras. Japanese forward Goshi Yamamoto has also joined the club from German club SV Bosnian Ffm, while midfielder Basile Desire is another signing. FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly Tuesday, 17 December, 2024 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY 19

PLUS YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A $250 KALLO TOWN CENTRE GIFT CARD!* See website for entry details

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