He’s been mayor of Whittlesea for just nine weeks, and now Aidan McLindon has his sights set on representing the people of Werribee in state Parliament.
Cr McLindon – who said he won’t step down from the city’s top job while he contests the state election – believes his campaign will help shine a spotlight on issues impacting Whittlesea.
They are the proposed waste to energy plant in Wollert, the state government’s Local Government Act reforms, payroll tax and Australia Day.
“I think we have an opportunity to really say Whittlesea is not going to be taken for granted,” he said.
But Whittlesea councillor Lawrie Cox disagrees. He can’t understand the mayor’s reasoning for contesting a by-election in the west.
‘‘ I think we have an opportunity to really say Whittlesea is not going to be taken for granted. ’’
- mayor McLindon
“The only relevance is that Whittlesea and Werribee both start with a ‘W’,” he said.
“As a councillor in the City of Whittlesea, I have no idea why someone thinks there are goingtohaveanimpactstandinginawestern metropolitan seat rather than a northern metropolitan seat.”
Cr Cox said Cr McLindon should step aside as mayor to ensure “the interests of the City of Whittlesea are protected”.
He said while there is no legal requirement for Cr McLindon to step aside, there was a precedent.
“Precedent has shown that prospective candidates do stand aside to ensure there is no conflict of interest,” he said.
Brimbank councillors Virginia Tachos and Maria Kerr and former Brimbank councillor Trung Luu, former Melton councillor Moira Deeming, and then-Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher all took a leave of absence from their respective councils to contest the 2022 state election.
However, Cr McLindon said he was confident he could carry out his responsibilities as mayor while also contesting the by-election.
He noted there was no Whittlesea council meeting until after the by-election on
February 8.
“People who know me on council know that I work from sun up to sun down,” he
said.
“I will meet all the responsibilities of my role and go to all council briefings.”
The Werribee by-election is not the first time Cr McLindon has stood for state Parliament. He contested the 2022 election in Mulgrave against former premier Daniel Andrews. He also served as a state MP in Queensland.
Cr McLindon said he had a wish list for the Werribee by-election which he wanted Premier Jacinta Allan and opposition leader Brad Battin to agree to.
He said he will give them one week to respond to his wishes before deciding where to direct his preferences.
“IdobelieveIcouldfindmyselfinasituation where my preferences are determining the outcome of the seat,” he said.
One of the items on Cr McLindon’s wish list is for the state government to withdraw plans for four waste to energy plants in Melbourne’s outer suburbs at Wollert, Dandenong South, Laverton North and Lara.
The Wollert plant proposed by Cleanaway and currently being assessed by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and the Department of Transport and Planning has drawn widespread criticism from the community and has been opposed by Whittlesea council.
“I can put the incinerator on a much higher platformandhelpmyneighbouringcouncils,” he said.
Cr McLindon said the government also needed to review changes made to the Local Government Act, which he said were “restrictive” and impacting the ability of councillors to interact with the community.
“The councillor code of conduct is exhaustive.
If I put something on Facebook and someone makes a derogatory comment, the onus is on me to remove it, but often you don’t see it,” he said.
“You can’t banter or talk out policy … robust local representatives are restricted.”
When announcing the reforms in November 2023, the state government said the changes would improve the performance and accountability of councillors.
Also on Cr McLindon’s wish list is for a minute’s silence to be observed on Australia Day; for small businesses with a turnover of $10 million or less to be exempt from payroll tax as long as they employ an extra person; and for retired Werribee MP Tim Pallas to face a public inquiry over his travel expenses, including $72,683 spent on a trip to the UK and Europe just weeks before he resigned.
Whittlesea mayor Aidan McLindon is contesting the Werribee by-election. (Attie Mohebali) 454260_01
Mayor unveils Australia Day plan
By Laura Michell
Whittlesea mayor Aidan McLindon is pushing for a minute’s silence to be observed at 11.59am on Australia Day to acknowledge the “atrocities” of the past.
Under Cr McLindon’s proposal, a bell would then ring at noon, signalling the start of celebrations.
He plans to write to Premier Jacinta Allan and state opposition leader Brad Battin, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and federal opposition leader Peter Dutton to encourage them to adopt his proposal.
But first he will need to overcome a hurdle close to home – Whittlesea council pulled
the pin on its Australia Day celebrations in December 2020.
The council’s then-administrators decided the city would not go ahead with its Australia Day celebrations in 2021, and the council hasn’t held official events on the day since.
At the time, council’s chief executive Craig Lloyd said there was a need for the council to review its events on January 26 “out of respect to our whole community”, adding that “current celebrations on Australia Day don’t include all Australians”.
Prior to 2021, council held a community event on Australia Day which included music, entertainment, food and fireworks. It also held a citizenship ceremony and announced
the winners of the Whittlesea Australia Day awards on that day.
This year, council will host a citizenship ceremony on January 24, while its community award winners will be announced in March.
Cr McLindon said he would put a notice motiontothecouncilcallingforAustraliaDay festivities to be restored and for a citizenship ceremony to be held on January 26.
“To get rid of it when the city is so clearly in favour [of Australia Day] is questionable,” he said.
Cr McLindon said it was his belief that observing a minute’s silence on January 26 would help to unite the community.
“Yes, there were atrocities that happened [in
Library vans roll into the north
Hume’s new library vans rolled into the city’s growing northern suburbs last week as the council strives to improve access to library services.
The vans, named VanGo and The Reading Vroom, will make regular stops across Hume, providing booklovers with the opportunity to borrow and return books or join the library without needing to visit one of Hume’s existing library branches.
TheReadingVroomfeaturesareturnschute and a versatile space for children’s and youth programs and will head out to festivals and events across the city.
Council unveiled the vans at an event in Kalkallo on Wednesday, January 15, which
featured a special story time with mayor Jarrod Bell. The vans also made stopes in Greenvale and Mickleham last week.
Cr Bell said the new vans would supplement thecouncil’slibrarykiosksinsuburbswithout branches.
“Whatweknowaboutthispartoftheworld, in our growing northern suburbs, there’s not the access to library services we so desperately need,” he said,
“By launching VanGo and The Reading Vroom we’re sending a signal to the community to say we’re supporting them.
We’re excited to provide more access to our services.
“We know libraries change lives, and access
is more than just books – it’s the programs and story times – it’s all the elements that a library brings to a community that’s missing here.
“This is a step in the right direction to supporting the Kalkallo community and the Mickleham community.”
Cr Bell said council’s library services plan included the construction of libraries in the city’s north into the future.
“While we have plans to delivering libraries in these areas, we know they’re not there yet, so in the interim we knew this is something we needed to do, and the community has shown their support in droves for this new initiative,” he said.
the past], nobody can deny that. To me, this is a very reasonable proposal to ensure we are all united as a community going froward,” he said.
“I am absolutely sick of our indigenous brothers and sisters being exploited to bring division in our communities.”
Mr Lloyd said council’s position on Australia Day remained unchanged.
“The views expressed by [Cr] McLindon, this week regarding a minute’s silence reflect his personal perspective and do not represent the official position of council,” he said.
“At this time, there are no plans or proposals before council to alter its approach to Australia Day.”
Road closure
A key Wollert intersection will be closed until April as part of works to upgrade Epping Road.
De Rossi Boulevard will be closed at Epping Road, the eastbound lane of De Rossi Boulevard at Highpark Drive and Sunfield Drive at De Rossie Boulevard until late April to enable crews to build new lanes.
Traffic lights and new street lights will be installed as part of the works, whileon-roadbicyclelanesandwalking paths will be created.
Epping Road will remain open in both directions. Access to De Rossi Boulevard and Sunfield Drive will be maintained via Linfield Parade.
Access to Wollert Primary School, Kirrip Community Centre, businesses and private properties, including LifestyleLyndarum,willbemaintained at all times.
People travelling through the area are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.
To make dropping off and collecting students at Wollert Primary School easier, drivers are advised to use and park on Highpark Drive instead of De Rossi Boulevard.
Once the intersection upgrade is complete, De Rossi Boulevard will reopen with a temporary arrangement until crews finish upgrading the existing northbound lanes on Epping Road.
Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) is upgrading Epping Road between Craigieburn Road east and Memorial Avenue, adding lanes in each direction.
The upgrade is due to be completed later this year.
MRPV program director Dipal Sorathiasaid“Wethankthecommunity for its patience and look forward to working well together again in 2025.” Details: bigbuild.vic.gov.au/epping
Grant boost for council’s Mernda housing development
Mernda’s Johnsons Road residential development is a step closer to reality after the federal government tipped in $7.1 million for the project. Whittlesea council is developing land on Johnsons Road to create 35 housing lots.
Council purchased the property from the state government in 2014, with the intent of selling the property at a future point for a return to be invested back into community infrastructure.
The council’s former administrators approved the residential development in
late-2021. At the time, the administrators said thirty-twoofthelotswouldbesold,withthree to be reserved for sale or lease to a registered social housing organisation.
Then-administrator Chris Eddy said the development was council’s way of making “a contribution to dealing with those very serious affordable housing issues that we have in the City of Whittlesea”.
The federal government’s contribution to the project will come from its housing support program and will help fund road and civil infrastructure.
Catherine King said the project will include the urbanisation of Johnsons Road and the establishment of shared paths, public space and protection of existing mature trees.
“It’s a really substantial investment in bringing more housing lots to market,” she said.
“The money goes towards that enabling infrastructure that, otherwise, council and the private developer would be paying for.
“And what’s happening across the country,
we’ve found, is that because of the costs of someofthisinfrastructurethathousing,those lots, are just not being released for housing at all.Peopleareland-bankingorsittingonthem waiting for some of those costs to be defrayed, and they’re not coming to market. So, this will bring those 35 lots to market very quickly.” Ms King said the Johnsons Road development was situated at the end of the Mernda train line near existing services and schools.
Hume mayor Jarrod Bell and Cr Ally Watson at the Kalkallo launch of the library vans. (Katrina Ferguson)
Rooms for all at reserve
By Tara Murray
After years of pain and out in the conditions, Tullamarine cricketers and footballers now have a new place to call home at Leo Dineen Reserve.
Hume council announced in August 2021 a $1.4 million investment to upgrade the facilities at the reserve.
It included a new pavilion including accessiblechangeroomsandpublicamenities, as well a new social room, canteen, bar and an external covered viewing area.
A number of issues arose and pushed back the completion date from mid-2022. In December, the rooms were finally opened.
Tullamarine Sporting Club president and cricket coach Peter Labbad said it was exciting to finally get to this point.
“We are stoked,” he said. “We had a pretty good opening held by the council.
“I said in my speech that what has gone on in the world has put things into perspective. The council didn’t know about things that were going to happen and cause delays.
“What they have delivered and what we have now, is outstanding. We have not one complaint about it.”
Labbad said both the cricket and football clubs had been hit hard financially during the delays unable to hold functions at the club and having to play games elsewhere.
He said the cricket club was lucky to get seven to eight people for meals after training while they had no rooms.
The new rooms have already changed that.
“Someonehasbeeninattheclubeveryday,” Laddad said.
“We had a cricket function a couple of days after the opening and there were 120-130 people there.”
“There were kids running around
everywhere. Overnight it has changed, I didn’t believe that would happen.” Labbad said they already had a number of
What’s on
Come and Explore at our Art Exhibition
Discover creativity and talent at the City of Whittlesea’s Art Exhibition.
Featuring 170 stunning works by 140 local artists, this year’s theme, Hope: A Spectrum of Possibility, explores hope in all its forms - from personal dreams to shared goals, and everything in between.
Where: Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre, 35 Ferres Blvd, South Morang
For more information, visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/artexhibition
functions booked for the rooms and would hold a whole cricket club presentation day later this year.
Merit review into runway
Brimbank council is pushing for a review into Melbourne Airport’s $3 billion third runway project, which was given a conditional green-light by the federal government last year.
The council lodged an application for a merits review to contest the decision due to its concerns about noise and health implications for residents, with these implications also relevant to peoplelivinginpartsofHumeincluding Bulla.
In September 2024, shortly after the project was approved, the council called on the federal government to provide additional information.
“Brimbank is keen to understand the detailsoftheconditionalapprovalbefore it can be comfortable with the decision, particularly as Melbourne Airport’s previous plans did not include adequate protection from the adverse impacts of aircraft noise on local communities,” council said in a statement.
A spokesperson for Hume declined to comment on Brimbank’s application, referring to its own statement from September.
“While council supports the airport’s growth,itbelievesthatthisdevelopment can and must occur in a manner which minimises potential adverse effects on the community … council encourages Melbourne Airport and the federal government to continue to provide and explore innovative noise and health measures to minimise and mitigate aircraft noise,” the September statement said.
Skate, play and climb these holidays
Ease into the long weekend by trying out the street-style skate park, shooting some hoops on the basketball and netball courts, and testing your strength on the rock climbing wall.
Bring your own skates, or use the ones provided, and enjoy roller skating lessons. There will also be lawn games, basketball activities, food trucks and some smooth tunes from a local DJ.
When: Friday 24 January, 4pm-7pm
Where: Whittlesea Public Gardens, 158 Barry Rd, Lalor
For more information, visit www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/events
Artwork credit: Lily Chen, The Harmony of Bloom and Flight
Tullamarine Sporting Club president Peter Labbad with Christian (13), Declan (13) and Lucas (12). Ljubica Vrankovic 452621_04
Council doesn’t want incinerator
By Laura Michell
Whittlesea council has called on the state government to reject a plan for a waste incinerator in Wollert.
As reported by StarWeekly, Cleanaway is proposing to build the Melbourne Energy and Resource Centre (MERC) at 510 Summerhill Drive.
The proposed facility would process waste to produce energy for offsite use, involving the combustion, treatment, or bio-reaction of waste in a bid to reduce reliance on landfill and generate energy.
A development licence application has been submitted to the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and a planning permit application has been submitted to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP).
Two rounds of community consultation have been held in relation to the project, with the community overwhelmingly opposed to the proposal.
A community advocate group – No Northern Incinerator Wollert – was started to raise awareness about the proposed facility and lobby against its approval.
At a council meeting on December 17, councillors added their voices to the growing opposition.
Councillors backed a council officer’s submission to DTP and EPA urging the state government to reject the proposal in its role as decision-maker.
Council chief executive Craig Lloyd will also write to the planning and environment minister to advocate against the proposal.
Council’s decision reflects concerns about the facility’s potential impact on local
School is ready to open
The final touches are being put in place ahead Wirrigirri Primary School opening its doors to students later this month.
TheWollertschoolwilltakeitsfirststudents this year, with 100 students expected to attend the school. Principal Bec Spink said it was an exciting time.
“It’s an amazing experience and a bit of a journey to get there,” she said. “We’re super keen to get the staff on site. At the moment we’ve got about 100 students and we’re expecting that number will continue to grow.”
The school has students in all grades, with about half of them in prep.
Ms Spink has been principal since April
and has been working hard to put together an experienced and diverse teaching group.
She was previously a teacher and then assistant principal at a new school in the Craigieburn region.
Ms Spink said the students and staff were lucky to have great facilities at Wirrigirri.
“The design of the learning hubs has been quite amazing,” she said. “The spaces allow collaborative work across the kin groups.
“There’s an amazing play space with an adventure playground, a gaga pit and open grass area from day one.”
Grade 1 to grade 6 will start on January 31, with the preps to start on February 5.
SUMMER SIZZLER CASHBACK
amenities, human health, the environment, traffic and the surrounding community.
Additional issues include its proximity to residential areas and the facility’s misalignment with state and local planning frameworks.
Mayor Aidan McLindon said while council supported innovative waste solutions, it could not endorse a project that raises unresolved concerns about its impact on residents and the environment.
“We owe it to our community to advocate for sustainable practices that align with their needs and expectations,” he said.
In September, four northern suburbs Labor MPs – climate Action, Energy and Resources Minister and Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio, Thomastown MP Bronwyn Halfpenny and Yan Yean MP Lauren Kathage and federal Scullin MP Andrew Giles – backed a
parliamentary petition opposing the facility.
Cleanaway, in its online response to communitysubmissions,saidtheSummerhill Drive site was chosen following a review of 200 potential sites and is 1.4 kilometres from existing residential areas in Wollert and 1.2 km from future residential developments.
“The proposed waste-to-energy facility offersanappropriateandproductiveuseofthe land, which is already surrounded by several industrial facilities making it unsuitable for residential development,“ Cleanaway
It said a human health risk assessment (HHRA) identified no unacceptable risks to community health, noting that the risk of odour impacts was low.
The EPA and DTP are still assessing the applications, with the EPA seeking additional information about the proposal from Cleanaway in November.
Wirrigirri Primary School principal Bec Spink. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 453426_02
CLASSIFIEDS
STEM workshop fun
Whittlesea’s libraries are the place to be these school holidays for families looking for free entertainment. Taj,8,(picturedwithdadLeigh)wereamong the kids taking part in a STEM workshop at Whittlesea library last Wednesday.
During the session, participants learnt how to build solar panel-powered cars and took part in a rocket experiment.
The fun continues at Yarra Plenty Regional Libraries five Whittlesea branches until the end of the school holidays.
Whittlesea library will host a Taekwondo and self-defence session for kids on
Wednesday, January 22, from 10.30-11.30am, while Lisa Foley, co-author of the 18,000 Holes in the Universe series, will be hosting a workshop for budding authors at Thomastown library from 11am-noon on the same day.
Also on January 22, the NGV Kids on Tour program will make a stop at Mill Park library, giving kids a chance to show off their creative skills from 2-4pm.
OnThursday,January23,kidscanlearnhow to make solar-powered robots, helicopters, planes,windmills,airboatsandthree-wheeler bikes at Thomastown library from 2-3pm.
Briefs
Epping collision appeal
Police are appealing for public assistance following a collision in Epping. A truck and a car collided at the intersection of Cooper and High streets about 9.20pm on Tuesday, January 14. The truck rolled multiple times before coming to a complete stop, police said. The female driver and sole occupant of the car was not injured. The male driver of the truck was taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries.
Missing man’s remains found
Police have confirmed human remains found at a Wildwood property are missing man Adrian Romeo. Adrian was last seen about 5.30pm on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at his home in Craigieburn. The 43-year-old told his family he was going to visit associates in Greenvale. He never returned. Detectives searched a Wildwood property between July and December last year. During searches on November 27 and December 10, a number of items were located which were then subject to forensic analysis. It has now been confirmed that those remains are those of Adrian. A 58-year-old Wallan man was charged with Adrian’s murder in July while a Greenvale man, 60, and a Wallan man, 29, were charged with assisting an offender in December,
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Leigh helps son, Taj, 8, make a solar-powered car. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 452890_05
Ace wheelchair action at Hume
Top tennis players from around the world made their way to Craigieburn over the past fortnight to compete in the Victorian Wheelchair Open and Melbourne Wheelchair Open. The events are held in the lead up to the Australian Open’s wheelchair competition. Star Weekly LJUBICA VRANKOVIC visited Hume Tennis and Community Centre to capture the tennis action.
Martin De La Puente from Spain is world number 3. 443517_32
Brazilian Daniel Rodrigues in action at the Melbourne Wheelchair Open. 443517_04
Australian Sonny Rennison. 452446_27
Australian Yassin Hill. 452446_46
World number 2, Alfie Hewett, from Britain. 443517_09
Tom Egberink from the Netherlands is world number 6. 443517_25
America’s David Wagner serves during the Victorian Wheelchair Open. 452446_06
South Africa’s Mariska Venter on court at the Victorian open. 452446_32
Paralympic gold medalist and world number 1 Tokito Oda from Japan takes part in the Melbourne Wheelchair Open. 443517_02
Columbian Angelica Bernal was among those to take to the court for the Melbourne open. 443517_16
Australia’s Ben Weekes during the Victorian Wheelchair Open. 452446_01
Greg Crump- coach for junior players (Ljubica Vrankovic) 452446_29
Broadmeadows roadmap funding
A roadmap to revitalise Broadmeadows will developed after Hume council received a $3.3 million grant from the federal government. The funding, provided through the government’surbanprecinctsandpartnership program, will enable council to work with the Broadmeadows Suburban Revitalisation Board, the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, state agencies, private developers and local non-profit organisations to develop a masterplan for the suburb’s CBD.
Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said the roadmap would help create better connections
between Broadmeadows’ public transport infrastructure, council facilities, libraries, community spaces, commercial spaces and parks.
“This funding for a masterplan development is the first important step in making Broadmeadows more connected. It’s the perfect example of partner organisations working together for community betterment,” she said.
“The $3.3 million is really about providing [council] the opportunity to put that roadmap together so that ... public spaces work for the people who live here.”
Hume mayor Jarrod Bell said council was “thrilled” with the funding announcement.
“What we know is when levels of government work together, when we then partner with fantastic community and education and employment organisations like Brite, like Kangan, like Banksia Gardens, good outcomes happen, and we are absolutely committed to taking this opportunity that you’re affording our city to then partner with all those organisations and the federal government to bring a new chapter of revitalisation of employment, of education, of making Broadmeadows what it has always meant to be the capital of Melbourne’s north,” he said.
“And this is a really key first step in that roadmap that will get us to where we need to
be so that Hume and Broadmeadows can meet that potential that we’ve always spoken about.” Broadmeadows’ local Basem Abdo – who is Labor’s candidate for the Calwell electorate with Maria Vamavkinou set to stand down at this year’s federal election – said the funding commitment was “well overdue”.
“For me, it’s exciting to see the investment in housing, the investment in infrastructure, the investment in community services, and economic and social frameworks that this investment brings is to revitalise Broad meadows, to make Broadmeadows into a central business district, and to put our area on the map.”
Government stumps up $11.5m for sport hub
The Regional Sports Precinct in Mernda is a step closer to being built, after the federal government committed $11.5 million towards the project.
The government will provide Whittlesea council with $10 million from its Thriving Suburbs Program and $1.5 million from its Play our Way Program.
TheThrivingSuburbsgrantwillhelpdeliver the indoor sports stadium component of the project, including four multi-purpose netball and basketball courts, council said.
The stadium will also feature changerooms, accessible toilets, foyer, reception area, kiosk office space, storage areas and more.
Earthworkstopreparethesitefortheindoor stadium are continuing ahead of council awarding a construction tender in 2025.
The Play Our Way Program grant will help
fund the construction of eight outdoor netball courts and associated infrastructure such as lighting, fencing and coaches’ shelters.
According to a VicHealth report released in April 2024, Whittlesea ranked 73rd out of 79 Victorian local government areas for
We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions
As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re building North East Link. We’re also upgrading the Eastern Freeway and completing the M80 Ring Road in Greensborough, making travelling around Melbourne quicker and safer.
Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions
Hurstbridge Line 11pm 31 Jan to last train 27 Mar
Heidelberg to Eltham
Road disruptions: Closed roads, lanes and ramps
Bridge Street, Bulleen Until 11.30pm, 24 Jan Lane between Manningham and Bulleen roads Peters Street, Watsonia At times until late Feb Between Grimshaw and Knight streets Service Road, Watsonia At times until late FebBetween Todman and Sarong streets
Greensborough Road, Greensborough At times until late 2025 Between Hobson and Nepean streets
Greensborough Bypass, Greensborough
10pm to 5am, 20 to 24 Jan
M80 Ring Road, Greensborough At times until early Feb
Eastern Freeway, Doncaster At times, 3 Feb to early Mar
Lower Plenty Road, Yallambie
Watsonia-bound between M80 Ring Road and Grimshaw Street
Between Plenty Road and Greensborough Bypass
Doncaster-bound between Bulleen and Burke roads
Early Feb to late AprLanes between Martins Lane and Greensborough Highway
organised sport participation among women and girls.
The outdoor netball courts will help meet current demand but also boost participation rates among women and girls across the region.
Mayor Aidan McLindon said the Regional Sports Precinct is a vital piece of social infrastructure that will provide Whittlesea’s growing communities with the sporting facilities they so desperately need.
The state government is also supporting the Regional Sports Precinct through a $10 million election commitment to assist building the indoor stadium.
It has also provided $10 million from its Growth Areas Infrastructure Contribution fund to assist council build the transport infrastructure surrounding the precinct.
Mayor, Aidan McLindon, McEwen MP Rob Mitchell and Cr Jarrod Lappin with members of local sporting clubs on a visit to the site of the future indoor sports stadium. (Supplied)
Kids get crafty in school holidays
The NGV Kids on Tour program made a stop in Gladstone Park and Lalor this week, where children took part in some creative school holidayfun.Theactivitiesincludedananimal headband making class, where participants designed cat or dog ear headbands inspired by their own pets, created pompom flowers and clothes for paper dolls and took part in Bogong moth drawing activity with Wadawurrung artist Deanne Gilson. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic stoppedbyGladstoneParkandLalorlibraries to capture the fun.
Leila, 6, created a dot pattern. 452515_11
Eshal, 6, with her pompom flower creation. 452404_07
Elif, 7, and mum Sule enjoyed the crafty activities. 452404_06
Gianna, 3, and mum Sabina joined in the fun at Lalor library. 452515_13
Kinza, 8, and Shayan, 7, show off their creations. 452404_03
Hugo, 6, and Anita, 9, joined in the fun at Gladstone Park. 452404_04
Kiren Deep with daughter Eliza, 3, during the session at Gladstone Park. 452404_01
Davina, 8, with her furry friend headband. 452515_04
Let’s talk about intimacy pain
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 writes about intimacy pain.
One of the major reasons women come into our clinic is due to new or long term intimacy pain.
Intimacypaincanbeamajorsourceofstress for women and their partners. The pain means both partners refrain from being intimate which can lead to guilt, anger, anxiety and miscommunication.
Why do women experience intimacy pain?
Young women may get pain due to tight pelvic floor muscles or because the area is pain sensitised. Pain sensitisation usually involves a nerve problem. This pain sensitisation can develop from excessive painful periods, endometriosis, adenomyosis or polycystic ovaries (PCO) or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
For pregnant or postnatal women hormonal changes may contribute to vagina dryness causing new intimacy pain or from new increasing pelvic floor muscle tension. After childbirth women may experience pain from recovering scarring from birth trauma or tissue dryness.
Perimenopausal women (from 40 - 44 years oldandbeyond)oftenexperiencenewintimacy pains as the vagina shrinks both in length and width as well as vaginal dryness.
So how can I fix my intimacy pain?
It depends on the cause, so getting help from an excellent women’s health GP, gynaecologist or pelvic health physiotherapist is ideal to diagnose the cause and address all the factors that are contributing to your pain.
But some good tricks to try at home include:
• For vaginal dryness try a silicon based lube as this does not absorb into the tissue like water
Advertising feature
basedlubesdo.Itcanalsoincreaseyourtissue sensitivity for the mature woman.
• For just a little bit of pesky scar tissue don’t be afraid to gently feel your bits and you can massage that scar tissue away just like you would on any other part of your body. If you are unsure see your pelvic health physio for guidance.
• If you are perimenopausal talk to your GP about the merit of a topical oestrogen cream which can bring back the bounce in your vagina making the tissue stretchier and improves your natural lubrication significantly. Please note the cream needs to be applied to the outside as well as inside. Ovestin cream is better than the vaginal pessaries.
Finally a word of caution. If you have pelvic pain, which means your intimacy pain is burning and lasts for the duration of intimacy and continues afterwards beyond minutes, then this is normally a nerve issue and needs treatment.
Conditions such as vulvodynia, vestibulodynia, clitorodynia, vaginismus, anal pain, proctalgia, perineal pain and abdominal pain are all under the umbrella term pelvic pain.
Discover your next adventure at cruise expo
Geelong Travel’s highly anticipated Travel and World Cruise Expo returns to the city on Sunday, February 2, at GMHBA Stadium.
The annual event promises to be packed with fantastic holiday ideas, exclusive travel deals and expert advice – all with free entry.
With more than 25 engaging travel presentations covering everything from luxury ocean and river cruises to outback Aussie adventures, this expo is your one-stop destination for travel planning.
It’s your chance to meet representatives from the world’s top travel companies, who are ready to help you design your dream itinerary and secure exclusive offers.
Among the expo guests will be celebrity chef Gabriel Gate who will serve up a French cooking demonstration and highlights of Scenic Tour’s luxury European river cruises.
Stuart Coffield, who heads up the family-owned and operated Geelong Travel company, said the popular event’s winning attraction is its lineup of expert travellers.
“We don’t have people reading from brochures or clicking on YouTube links,” he said.
“You get to talk to people who have been on the tours and have real experience – their presentations are amazing.”
Geelong Travel’s 20 experienced team members will be on hand to help expo visitors with enquiries and bookings.
And there’s a travel experience to suit everyone. Among the exciting presentations will be:
· The Ghan and Indian Pacific – Australia’s Great Rail Journeys;
· The wonders of Canada and Alaska with APT and Travelmarvel;
Explore the new world of Viking’s Ocean, Rivers & Expeditions;
Trafalgar’s Tour Differently – the experts, the icons, and hidden secrets of travelling with ease; Bucket list adventures including The Kimberley, Africa, South America and Asia with APT and Travelmarvel; Mustsee places and Immersive cultural experiences throughout Asia and beyond with Wendy Wu;
· Travelling to Antarctica and the Arctic with Quark Expeditions;
· New Zealand coach tours with Grand Pacific Tours; and Small group fourwheeldrive expeditions throughout Australia with Outback Spirit.
The team at Pelvic Health Melbourne.
The Cinque Terra.
Gabriel Gate will serve up a French cooking demonstration and highlights of Scenic Tour’s luxury European river cruises. (Supplied) Santorini.
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Recently retired Tohu Harris was captain of which NRL team?
2. Phil ‘The Power' Taylor won a record 16 world championships in which sport?
3. Which Olympics was the first to include synchronised diving?
4. Noah Balta most recently played for which AFL club?
5. Which Australian basketballer was first to reach 1000 NBA games played?
6. Which two US college teams will play off in the 2025 national championship game?
Australia’s Daniel Sanders competed in which vehicle category of the 2025 Dakar Rally?
Luke Sayers was most recently the president of which AFL club?
In what year is a Papua New Guineabased team set to debut in the NRL?
What is the real name of US golf professional Fuzzy Zoeller?
Bernard Tomic made his only Grand Slam quarterfinals appearance at Wimbledon in which
What is the name of Britain’s top level rugby league competition?
13. Which Australian horse race has the highest prize value?
14. Who was the only cricketer to take over 30 wickets in the 2024–25 Border Gavaskar Trophy series?
15. Canadian basketballer Shai Gilgeous-Alexander plays for which NBA team?
16. What is the most popular sport in India?
17. The upcoming sports action drama film F1 will star which actor as driver Sonny Hayes?
18. Titleist is a popular brand that manufactures balls used in which sport?
19. Suncorp Stadium is located in which suburb of Brisbane?
20. In which year was the A-League Women’s division founded?
21. Glenn Maxwell plays for which Big Bash League team?
22. What is the title of the recent documentary charting the life of tennis great Jelena Dokic?
23. The Belinda Clark Medal is awarded to the women’s player of the year in which sport?
24. Brisbane Broncos player Ezra Mam recently received a ban of how many NRL matches?
25. How many matches make up the 2025 Women’s Ashes cricket series?
26. And which ground is hosting its first-ever daynight Test match during the Women’s Ashes series?
27. Who currently sits third on Australia’s all-time men’s Test wicket tally with 539 scalps?
28. How
29.
30.
what
many combined Olympic medals have sisters Jess and Noemie Fox won?
The Adelaide Giants, Sydney Blue Sox and Melbourne Aces are all teams that play which sport?
In
year was a pink cricket ball first used in Test matches?
Jess Fox
Bernard Tomic
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
ACROSS 1 Postal receipt (5) 4 Female cleaner (9) 9 US writer (1817–62), Henry David – (7) 10 Distribute (food) (5,2)
11 Rear (9) 12 ‘70s dance genre (5) 13 Twenty-first letter of the Greek alphabet (3) 14 Melodramatic (11) 16 Able to be maintained consistently (11) 19 Male sheep (3) 20 Baghdad native (5) 22 Lasting (9) 25 First (7) 26 Mournful (7)
US state (9) 28 Persuasion (5)
Scheme (3-2) 2 Qualities of a room that determine audibility (9)
Bit (5)
Wariness (7)
European country (7)
Universal (9)
Satisfies (5) 8 'Not to worry' (2,7) 13 Assumes the worst (9)
Keep steady (9)
Beatles song, – Wood (9)
Attacks with thickened petrol bombs (7)
Language of Myanmar (7)
Foreign (5)
23 Vigilant; observant (5)
24 Unspoken (5)
1 The prancing horse is the logo for which prestige car company?
2 Brass is an alloy of which two metals?
3 Who wrote the classic children's book TheVery HungryCaterpillar?
4 Name the British monarch that abdicated from the throne in 1936.
5 Which Dutch artist painted TheNightWatch?
6 Christoph Waltz (pictured) won an Oscar for his portrayal of Dr. King Schultz
7 Is Mavis Staples a famous a) basketball player, b) singer or c) cinematographer?
8 Phoenix dactylifera is a palm species that produces which fruit?
9 In the title of the television series, what does the acronym M*A*S*H
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
Inclusive tennis
A free weekly tennis program for people with disabilities and/or special needs, or if your just struggling to access mainstream sport programs. Held at Epping Tennis Club, 861 High Street, Epping, on Thursdays from 5-6pm, beginning January 30.
play.tennis.com.au/eppingtennisclub
Colour carnival
The Whittlesea Colour Carnival- Northern Holi is on Sunday, February 23, noon-6pm at the Whittlesea civic centre, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang. There will be colour play, food trucks and stalls, a live DJ and Zumba session. Entry is free.
https://www.trybooking.com/CYCIY
Business network
Looking to grow your business connections, share ideas, and meet like-minded professionals in the local area? Join the City of Whittlesea Business Network at its next networking morning and build valuable connections with fellow business owners, discover opportunities for collaboration and partnership, and exchange ideas and insights to help grow your business. On Tuesday, February 11, 9am-11am at BASE Westfield Plenty Valley, Shop 53/400 McDonalds Road, Mill Park. Bookings essential. Attendees must be a member of the City of Whittlesea Business Network.
business@whittlesea.vic.gov.au
Pet vaccination clinic
RSPCA Victoria is hosting a low-cost pet vaccination and health clinic on Wednesday, January 29, 9.30am-4.30pm..
For only $59, you can get your dog or cat’s health checked by one of RSPCA’s dedicated and experienced shelter veterinarians. Staff can also provide professional advice on how to keep your pet healthy now and into the future, for a low fee. At Homestead Community and Learning Centre, 30 Whiltshire Drive, Roxburgh Park.
9205 2760
Young parents group
DPV Health’s Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies program in partnership with Whittlesea council, Brave Foundation and Westfield Plenty Valley is a group for young parents every Thursday, from 10.30am –noon during school term. The group is a supportive space that allows young parents to form friendships and develop their parenting skills. It also allows for their young children to play and socialise with other children. At The Y at Westfield Plenty Valley, 415 McDonalds Road, Mill Park.
Asha Robinson, 0491 934 819
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/
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
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
The 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 dance from 7-11 pm. All are welcome.
Liz Munro, 0409 712 613, lizmunro7@ gmail.com
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
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
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 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 www.craigieburn.org.au
Whittlesea Historical Society
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 host a monthly open day on the first Saturday of each month, 11am-noon, to showcase the gardens at the corner of Toora Drive and Redan Court.
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, at 7.30pm.
craigieburnresidents@gmail,com, or 0401 369 311
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
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Addison, Eva and Olivia escaping the heat at the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre. (Attie Mohebali)
Big summer of cricket heats up
Plenty Valley. 453746_25
Plenty Valley’s Ava Schivo. 453746_08
Plenty Valley’s Eden Boland. 453746_23
Plenty Valley’s Daani Jawanda. 453746_01
Jake Mulqueen. 453549_05
Geelong’s Erin Moloney. 453746_12
Geelong. 453746_21
Jake Mulqueen. 453549_02
The summer school holidays are made for representative cricket. Competitions and matches are being played across Melbourne with bragging rights on the line. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shootingsomeofthejuniorVictorianPremier Cricket championships.
Panthers to field their first senior team in 2025
Merrifield Panthers will take their next step in their football journey, with senior football to join the ranks for the first time in 2025.
The Panthers made their debut in the Essendon District Football League last season with three junior sides.
The club has seen massive growth and are looking to field five junior sides along with a senior thirds side this year.
Panthers president Paul Higginson said it was a pretty exciting time for the club to have senior football.
He said starting a senior program was six years ahead of schedule which was exciting for the community.
“It’s definitely something that we wanted to get up early on and we’re really excited it’s come to fruition,” he said.
“We tried to get a couple of dads last season to run it but we didn’t quite have the numbers. They continued to get their fitness up
“They’re looking forward to it.”
Higginsonsaidthey’dalreadyhad30players come to training and other guys who had been in contact about getting involved, some in a non-playing capacity.
He said the interest had surpassed what they were expecting and they weren’t looking for any other players but were still looking for volunteers to help out.
“We know the population around the area is mostlythat20to40agegroup,”hesaid.“Many have moved away from home and their footy clubs and stopped playing footy.
“A lot retired three, five, even 10 years ago and are keen to get back into playing.”
Simon Marchitto has come on board as coach of the senior side, with Trent Wilson to be an assistant coach.
Higginson said one of the biggest things aboutthemen’ssidewastoprovidesomewhere as an outlet and help with the mental health
which many men neglect.
“I am a major advocate for supporting men’s mental health,” he said. “Giving the men in the community an enjoyable and safe place to come and play football and be around other blokes that they can call friends has been one of my life’s greatest achievements.”
Higginson said the plan eventually was to have more senior sides and be able to play in the Saturday competitions and provide that pathway all the way through the age groups.
They are also looking at expanding into women’s football in 2026.
On the junior side this season, the Panthers are looking to field two under-8 sides, an under-10, under-12 and under-14 side.
Higginson said they were still looking for players for their under-14 side.
The club is also hunting for sponsors.
Scott is on the rise
By Tara Murray
Hannah Scott’s rise through the softball ranks has been quicker than what she expected.
Scott made her Victorian senior debut as an 18-year-old and had been part of the Australian Junior Spirit. She was looking to representthenationalteamagainlatelastyear.
That quickly changed when she got a call from Australian Spirit coach Laing Harrow saying she had been called up to the senior women’s team.
“It was absolutely unreal,” she said. “I had a call from Laing a couple of weeks out from the series.
“HegavemethenewsplayingwiththeSpirit and I could not believe it, I think I was nearly crying all day with excitement and happiness.
“It has been a dream of mine since I was a young girl, it was just surreal.”
Scott said it was an amazing experience and she would take a lot from it going forward. She said the hard work was just beginning.
“I was so excited to take the diamond for the first time, such an incredible experience,” she said.
“Ihavetokeepworkinghardanddeveloping my game and getting stronger and getting faster and working on all the different aspects of my game.
“My goal was always to be playing in the Olympics. Leading in 2028 I want to play as much softball as I can.”
Softball will return to the Olympics in 2028 with Scott keen to help the Australian team qualify for the event.
For Scott, the softball diamond has always been home.
“I was about three or four when I started playing,” she said. “I started playing T-ball as mum had played her whole life and my nan and pop as well.
“My mum played baseball for Australia and I’dalwaysaroundsoftballevenwhenIwasina pram, sitting and watching her play.
“It’s a massive family sport for us, we’re there every weekend, We’re the first ones at the ground and the last ones to leave, I just love everything about the sport “
Scott, who grew up in Mernda, started her softball at the Cheetahs Softball Club in the Northern Districts Softball Association.
Broncos reveal new signings
Hume City Broncos have locked in their second import for the Big V women’s championship season, while bringing back of Australia’s brightest prospects to the side.
AmericanMaddyHollandwilljointhe Broncos for 2025.
“A 2022 graduate of St Marys College in California, the 181 centimetre forward was second all-time in the Gaels history books with 507 assists and was ninth in program history with 1517 points,” the Broncos said in the announcement.
“Since graduating, Maddy has played professionally in Ireland and Holland and is now looking to showcase her range of basketball skills and talent on the hardwood floors of the Big V championship division competition.
New Broncos coach Brooke Davenport said they were rapt to secure someone of Holland calibre.
“Maddy’s playing stats demonstrate that her passing skills and scoring capability will contribute to our team’s competitiveness in 2025 and she will be a great fit for the team first-fun culture the women’s program has committed to.”
Davenport revealed that the Broncos had signed Sarah Portlock for the 2025 season as well.
A Broncos junior, Portlock has been partoftheBasketballAustraliaCentreof Excellence and has represented Australia at junior level.
She said the club was like a family to her. Whilesoftballhasbeenhertruelove,Scottis also a talented footballer.
She played in the Coates Talent League with the Northern Knights, before making her Victorian Football League Women’s debut last year with Carlton.
“I’ve played footy, maybe five, six years now,” she said. “I love footy as well, it’s kind of my winter sport... It’s really good for my fitness.”
Scott said playing AFLW was always a goal of hers as well, but softball remained the main focus.
After the highs of her Australia debut, Scott was back on the pitch with the Victorian team at the 2025 Gilley’s Shield Open Women’s National Championships
The team finished fourth in the division one competition.
Speaking during the event, Scott said they had been hoping to play finals.
Scott said her focus now was to continue working hard at the Victorian Institute of Sport and play as much softball as she can, whether locally, nationally or internationally.
“With the other recent signing of 200 centimetre Australian junior representative and home-grown junior Sarah Portlock, I’m excited about the potential of our playing group to make an impact on the competition next year,” Davenport said.
Guard Kenna Holt is the other import for the Broncos, who was previously announced.
Holt, was a standout player at Bishop Manogue High in America and spent two seasons as a scholarship player for the Nevada Wolf Pack.
She attended a couple of Broncos training sessions last year and impressed Davenport.
Centre Harmony Harder, who previously played for the Broncos, has also joined the squad.
Sammy Labros, Genevieve Mucha, Oriana Siamoa, Tashia Overby, Georgia Keighran, Paige Tawaf and Eliza Ogilvie are all returning to the Broncos line up for 2025.
Tara Murray
Simon Marchitto (right) will coach the Merrifield Panthers thirds side. (Supplied)
Hannah Scott representing Australia for the first time. (Henry Barker). Inset: Hannah Scott representing Victoria. (Softball Victoria)
New era for players and officials at Dallas City
A new chapter is to be written for Dallas City Soccer Club.
The club had been known at Hume United, but will head into the new chapter with a new name to reflect the local community.
The club said the change reflects the club’s dedication to representing the vibrant spirit and pride of the suburb through the beautiful game.
The new name has been well received by the local community.
Aspartofthenewera,theclubhashadanew committee come on board, led by president Atilla Toplu.
Toplu said it was exciting for the club going forward.
“The club has been struggling for a fair few yearswithsponsorshipandthemanagementof the club,” he said. “It was going south and me being a Broady [Broadmeadows] boy, born and bred all my life.
“I thought it was time to give back. That is
our intention and got our committee together.
“I love the game. At the age of 50, I’m always willing to learn or do something new. Bottom line we’re here for the community and the youth.”
Having grown up in the area, Toplu knows the challenge that the youth faces.
Hesaidtheywanttobecomemorethanjusta soccerclub,butahubforthecommunitywhere everyone wants to come.
Another one of the club’s focuses is to ensure that it remains affordable so that local families can remain involved.
“We want to shake it up a bit, be aggressive,” he said. “We want to give back and get as many sponsors on board. Getting mums and dads on board too.
“It doesn’t have to end with soccer, there’s a lot to offer. Everyone is welcome to come down.”
The club has set a five year goal and growing its junior program is a big focus.
Another one of the new committee, Mesut Ates, said there’s 120 juniors registered for this year, up from 70 last year.
Hesaidafewyearsago,therewereonly15-20 children. The club wants to make sure that the coaches for these sides also have the relevant training.
The club will also have a women’s side for the first time this season.
“It’s a brand new team,” Toplu said. “That is very encouraging for the local community and it makes me proud.”
Onthemen’sside,MarkGaleawillremainin charge of the club’s FV state league north-west 2 side.
Toplu said Galea is a valuable asset they wanted to keep at the club. He comes from a junior coaching background which will also benefit the club.
Tara Murray
VTCA pull of a thriller
By Tara Murray
The Victorian Turf Cricket Association representativesidetimeditsruntoperfection against a Dandenong District Cricket Association team.
The VTCA was going for a hat-trick of wins after winning matches between the two teams the past two years and was made to work for it.
The VTCA managed to hit the winning runs with two balls remaining.
Coach Mitch Johnstone said it was another good day between the two associations.
“The DDCA probably had its strongest team in three years and our team probably wasn’t as strong as the other two years.
“We still were able to find a way.”
Johnstone said each of the three games that they had played had been slightly different way, but all had been good occasions.
The VTCA had a number of changes during the week from the team that was named.
Johnstone, who ended up playing after initially only going to coach, said it was hard
to attract some of the top line players, who had done a lot at higher levels.
“We’ve rewarded some players who have put their hands up each year, with Matthew Gaskett and Donovan Pell two of those guys.
“Hopefully we’ll hold on to them going forward. Both played pivotal roles.”
The DVCA got off to a flyer and were about 70 off eight overs
The VTCA was able to peg it back.
“We were going around the park early on,” Johnstone said. “We took the pace off the ball and bowled a lot of spin.
“We were able to restrict them for the rest of the day.”
The DDCA finished its 40 overs at 9-204. Johnstone said they were happy with that total. Joel Brett took three wickets, while Gaskett, Johnstone and Ryan Metz took two wickets each.
The VTCA was in trouble early at 2-4 and with a longer tail than usual there were some nervous faces.
But the VTCA middle and lower order stepped up led by Aaron Maynard (39) and
Rivergum’s Jarrod Bannister was the star of the show in the latest Diamond Valley Cricket Association Mash Shield Summer Smash matches.
The Kookas were in action on Thursday night against Thomastown United and it was the Bannister show.
The Kookas decided to bat, piling on the runs as they made 2-176.
Bannister finished 100 not out off 54 balls in an innings that included 11 fours and two sixes.
United had some small partnerships, but failed to have any big ones. It finished 9-128 off its 20 overs. Rohan Desai top scored with 26 for United.
The win moves the Kookas to the top of pool B after three matches. In the pool B match on Tuesday night, Thomastown lost to Dennis Thomastown was bowled out for 80 in the 18th over. Dennis hit the winning runs with an over remaining, finishing 8-81.
In pool A, Mernda beat Laurimar in a thriller. The Demons made 6-110 from their overs with Ryan Marnell top scoring with 24 not out.
The match came down to the wire, with the Demons doing just enough as theyrestrictedthePowerto5-105.Luke Richardson scored 45 for the Power.
South Morang was also on the winners list on Tuesday night.
After winning the toss, the Lions made6-162fromtheiroverswithRicky Lee top scoring with 53 not out.
his son Kobi Maynard (10 not out).
The pair spent time at the crease together.
Johnstone said it was really cool to see them out there together.
“Wetryandgiveaspotforayoungerbloke,” he said. “Kobi showed a lot of composure late in the innings.”
Gaskett was named player of the match.
While he had a mixed bag with his bowling, he made 42 off 53 balls after coming in at number seven to help get the side across the line.
Johnstone said it was a really even contribution across the side.
The VTCA is already starting to plan for next year
“I’ve spoken with Zoran [Havranek] and with other coaches Duncan Harrison and Mick Andriadis.
“Do we have the side more a development side or go with experience.
“Do we leverage the team of the year and they have the first opportunity to play and we fill the gaps around them, or look to some of the younger players?”
While Panton Hill put on 56 for the first wicket, it never seemed likely as it was restricted to 6-124.
In the Barclay Shield on Tuesday night, Riverside was too good for Epping. Riverside made 5-130, with Jaedyn Kearney and Naman Sharma takingtwowicketseachforthePingers. Epping got off to a solid start, losing some key wickets in the middle of the innings to fall short 7-116.
Tom Emmins and Shaun Barker top scored with 34 apiece. North Eltham Wanderers beat Diamond Creek in the other match on Tuesday night.
On Tuesday night, Bundoora Park was too strong for Banyule. The Thunderbolts made 5-140 from their overs with Harry Sellick top scoring with 36 before being run out.
Banyulefellwellshortasitwasbowled out for 97 in the 19th over. Logan Plant and Clayton Pringle took three wickets each for the Thunderbolts.
New president Atilla Toplu. (Supplied)
The VTCA representative side. (Supplied)
The Stars knock off ladder leaders Rosebank
The confidence is growing for Lalor Stars in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Money Shield.
After a few tough seasons, the Stars have started to put together some consistent cricket and are pushing for a top four spot,
On Saturday, they produced their best result fortheseason,knockingofftopside,Rosebank.
Captain Ricky Mittica said it was a really good win.
“It was huge for us,” he said. “Jordy [Jordan Steele] came on for us and took five for not many.
“He said he wasn’t going to bowl, but ended up bowling for an hour straight.
“They were 4-200 but we were able to find a way.”
The Stars had made 8-273 on day one of the match with Steele making 83 and Riley Scott 77.
Mittaca said they were happy with that after being 2-4, with the pair about to put on more than 150 for the second wicket.
After being on top and batting well in the middle order, Rosebank was bowled out for 258 in the 76th over.
Steele took 5-44 to be the pick of the bowlers and get his side over the line.
The win moved the Stars to third on the ladder after 10 rounds. They sit a game back from Rosebank which remains on top.
Mittaca said it’s nice to see the group get some reward for effort.
“It has been a tough few years,” he said. “We got a few players back which was nice and the young kids are coming through.
“Ethan [Baade] and Patrick [Taylor] have had some opportunities the last few years and now have some more support. It’s nice to get a few wins.”
Mittaca said the aim for them now was to play finals. He admits that it will be a task, with it being a tight competition where
Bulldogs’ important win
By Tara Murray
Bundoora United got an important win in the race of finals in the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Barclay Shield.
With not much separating the pack, every win in the run home is important.
The Bulldogs were able to beat Epping for a second straight round on Saturday, this time in a two-dayer.
Bulldogs captain Joel Thompson said they didn’tmindthenewformatthatwastrailedthis seasonwhensidesfaceeachotherback-to-back.
“We were in a good position before Christmas,” he said. “They wanted to trial something different playing the same side either side of Christmas,
“It’s normally one of those things you play a side and then wait half a season to play them again.
“We thought playing them again so soon was a good thing so we could implement some things straight away.”
The Pingers made 9-161 on day one of the match.
Thompson said while the total wasn’t a massive one, with a slow out field it wasn’t an easy ground to make runs on.
The Bulldogs plans were also thrown into disarray with one of their players taken to hospital on the morning of the match needing stitches in his foot.
Once the game got underway the Bulldogs hadenoughcontributorstomarktherunswith more than 12 overs remaining, finishing 6-163.
Scott Barnett top scored with 74 not out, while Thilina Hereath came in at number eight and made an unbeaten 26.
“Thilina put us in a really strong position,” he said. “He can bat all across the line up.
“He opened for us in the grand final last year and he’s in a new different role which he has adjusted to.”
After 10 rounds, the Bulldogs sit in sixth position, only a game behind second.
Thompson said it was proving to be a really close season. He said they want to be challenging come the end of the season.
“I think as a competition, anything can happen,” he said. “The win helps set us up
anyone can beat anyone.
The Stars next match is a one-dayer on Saturday against Greensborough.
“They smashed us in the first game,” Mittaca said. “We made 180 and they got it one down.
“We know it will be a tough contest. Hopefully we keep winning and the confidence is starting to grow.”
In other results, Lower Plenty was way too strong for Banyule, Plenty beat Eltham, Lower Eltham had a solid win against Bundoora Park and Montmorency made easy work of Greensborough.
Hurstbridge, Panton Hill, Thomastown United, DenniS and Mernda were the winners in the Mash Shield.
-Tara Murray
Briefs
VTCA
Westmeadows captain-coach Donovan Pell has put pen to paper for an extra two seasons, signing on to the end of the 2026-27 Victorian Turf Cricket Association season. The extension means that Pell will become the club’s longest serving captain. On Saturday, the Warriors lost to Aberfeldie. Abers resumed at 2-108 in reply to 113 and got first innings points with ease before declaring at 7-215. The Warriors finished 4-124 in reply. The Warriors sit in sixth spot after eight rounds.
Big V
The Hume City Broncos have signed Robbie Coman for the Big V championship men’s season. Coman is a power forward hailing from New Zealand has represented his country as a Junior Tall Black (U19’s) and has spent the past 4 seasons in the New Zealand National Basketball League. He was a key member of the Otago Nuggets championship winning side in 2022 and has most recently won a national championship and tournament most valuable player in 2024 for Otago in New Zealand’s Tupu league
VSDCA
and put us in a good position.”
The Bulldogs will face Heidelberg in round 11 on Sunday in a standalone Australia Day game.
The side has played on Australia Day for a number of years and with going up a division have now joined forces with Heidelberg to continue the tradition.
Thompson said they were hoping to have a big crowd come down and watch them.
“It’s a special occasion,” he said. “It’s the only game on the day and hopefully we’ll have a big crowd down there to come and watch.”
In other Barclay Shield matches, Bundoora held its spot in the top four with victory against Macleod.
Chasing 141, the Bulls finished 9-174. Harkaran Gujral top scored with 69 at the top of the order.
The Bulls sit in fourth spot, equal on points with second.
Heidelberg, North Eltham Wanderers and Research Eltham Collegians were the other winners.
Plenty Valley came away with the win against Kew in the opening round of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association T20 competition. Kew made 7-134 from its overs with Kishor Mahato and Musaddiq ali Hamza taking two wickets each for the Bats.The Bats got the winning runs in 16.2 overs, finishing 5-137. Sunil Dhamala made 51 off 34 balls at the top of the order.
VTCA
Westmeadows was too strong for the Greenvale Kangaroos in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition. The Kangaroos made 9-98 from their overs. Babar Aziz top scored with 25. Angus Price took four wickets for the Warriors. The Warriors got the winning runs with 14 balls remaining. Stephen Mihelakos-James and Rhys Gleisner made 22 each for the Warriors. The Warriors are undefeated after three rounds.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Jordy Steele (right) was the match winner on Saturday. (Supplied)
