Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 28th January 2025
Cricket pioneer honoured
By Faith Macale
One of the pioneers of women’s cricket in Australia, Raelee Thompson, was left “flabbergasted” when she learned she was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia this January (AM).
The Hillside resident was recognised for her contributions on and off the field in the Australia Day honours. Thompson said one way to look at being made a Member of the Order of Australia was as pay off for her hard work, but said she only played cricket because she’s passionate about it.
“I really loved playing cricket, and the administrative roles are ways I can return the favour,” she said.
Thompson was a cricketer for 20 years playing interstate and internationally, and was also an administrator.
She played 16 test matches and 23 one-day internationals as a part of the Australian women’s cricket team and captained the team to an Ashes win.
Thompson, who was a right-arm medium fast bowler, became the oldest player to in test cricket to claim a maiden five wicket haul at the age of 39.
She was also a former coach, captain and a player for the Essendon and Maribyrnong Park Ladies Cricket Club.
Thompson was also just as busy off the field in the cricket world.
“I was a Victorian and Australian selector, a match referee at one stage, and I was on the Australian Women’s Cricket Council as a delegate for Victoria,” she said.
“In my later years, I just go and watch my old club (Essendon and Maribyrnong Park) play, and mentor young kids that play there.”
Thompson is in the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame, Shepparton Sports Hall of Fame, and the Victoria Police Sporting Hall of Fame. She spent 17 years in the police force.
She is also an honorary life member of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in London.
Despite her many accolades, she has two in particular that she is proud of.
“Captaining Australia to a 2-1 win over England in an Ashes series in 1984-85,” she said was the first one. “Australia hadn’t won a series against England for many years.
“Another is being admitted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame.
“There isn’t anything bigger or better than to be recognised by your own peers.”
Thompson said it didn’t matter where she was playing cricket, she loved the contest of the game.
“It was a game that I started playing in high school, and it just grabs you more than what the other sports did,” she said.
“This particular game is a mind game. A lot of people don’t recognise it, but it is.”
Thompson said she didn’t know who put her name in to be appointed as an AM, but she was thankful.
“It is a nice feeling that someone recognises the work that you’ve done even though I wasn’t doing it for that reason,” she said.
AM recipient Raelee Thompson. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Big battery transformer arrives
By Faith Macale
Two new giant 335-tonne transformers have arrived at the 600-megawatt Melbourne RenewableEnergyHub(MREH)inPlumpton.
There are 444 Tesla Megapack “big battery” components at the MREH, and the transformers are the last piece that will connect the battery’s power to the grid and allow it to be pumped at higher voltage.
This means that the “big battery” will be able to store enough renewable energy to power 200,000 homes during peak periods, according to the state government.
StateElectricityCommission(SEC)Minister
Lily D’Ambrosio said the government would soon plug a publicly-owned energy asset into the electricity grid for the first time in more than 25 years.
Lumea, part of the Transgrid Group, is in charge of connecting the transformers to the grid.
Lumea executive general manager Craig Stallan said the team was excited and very proud to be working with Equis and the SEC to help them realise this important project.
“The accelerated development of the MREH plays a key role in meeting Victoria’s
Gold pan at Blackwood
Brush up on your panning skills, the Australian Gold Panning Championship is back in Blackwood on Saturday, March 1, at the Blackwood Cricket Ground.
Victorian Gold Panning Association president Marcus Binks said all are welcome at the event, whether you are a rookie or a master at the art of gold-panning.
“The way the championships work is we have a series of heat,” he said.
“There’s 20 people in that heat that get the same amount of gold, but they don’t know how many pieces.”
Between five to 10 flakes of gold will be in each competitor’s bucket. They are given a small bottle to put the gold they have panned, and the person who pans all the gold the fastest wins.
About 80 to 100 competitors join the championships every year, with at least eight categories ranging from solo competitions,
under-16s, veterans 65-plus, to team competitions.
“Gold in Blackwood dates back to 1858, I think that’s when gold was first discovered in Blackwood,” Mr Binks said.
“The Lerderderg River contained gold.
“There is also a Golden Point in Blackwood, which is appropriately named for what they are.”
Mr Binks said the Australian Gold Panning Championship is a glimpse of the history of the town, and encouraged everyone to join in on the fun.
Faith Macale
ambitious timeline of renewable energy and net zero targets,“ he said.
“We are working to safely connect this enormous battery to the grid, improving system strength and enabling access to renewable, affordable and reliable energy for consumers.”
The 1.6 gigawatt-hour (GWh) battery is the first project from the SEC’s initial $1 billion investment as part of the newly rebooted SEC’s target of 4.5 gigawatts of new renewable energy generation and storage projects.
The big battery is set to come online later this year.
Rhiannon Binks pans for gold at 2024 Australian Gold Panning Championship. (Supplied)
Two giant transformer have arrived at the Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub. (Supplied)
Cecil family hopes for answers
PeterCecilhopesapolicedecisiontoreopenthe investigation into the death of his daughter 28 years ago will finally bring his family closure.
As reported by Star Weekly, Alana Cecil was 16-years-old when she was found dead at a vacant house on the corner of Barrys and Stations roads in Melton on November 10, 1996.
She died of an apparent drug overdose.
There were drugs in Alana’s system and needle marks in both arms but a later autopsy report showed she hadn’t had drugs for three months beforehand. DNA from two men was found on and in Alana.
Police at the time said they didn’t think her death was suspicious, but that didn’t sit well with Peter.
Since the day Peter lost his beloved daughter, he has dedicated his life to find out what happened to his girl.
There have been two coroner’s inquests and others delayed and postponed, which left the family with no answers and feeling that the system had failed them. The first inquest gave an open finding, which remains today.
Last year, Peter shared Alana’s story with New Zealand-based podcaster Ryan Wolf in the hope of finding answers.
Hewasrecentlygivenrenewedhopethathis questions would be answered when Victoria Police reopened the investigation into Alana’s death. Peter said he has mixed emotions about the latest investigation.
“I feel positive, but it’s been explained to me
that all stops are out in terms of a thorough investigation,” he said.
Peter said sharing Alana’s story with Ryan had been incredibly helpful. He credits Ryan with turning up new evidence.
He said there’s a very big number of people who are aware of Alana’s case and he hopes the authorities will be very careful about the investigation and be accountable.
“The family is desperate for the answers,” he said.
“Ilovemydaughter.Ifshewashere,she’dbe fighting for herself.
“It’s been so long so nothing is guaranteed and I understand that, the family just wants closure, and a proper chance to grieve.”
Young fundraiser strives to help dogs
A 10-year-old Melton girl is raising money for local dog shelters in need of supplies.
Samar, who dreams of becoming a veterinarian, has been raising money for eight months.
Shehaswalkeddogs,createdpaintingsofpet and sold bookmarks as a way of raising money.
During the school holidays she raised $150. “I like to help animals, and I like to give back to the community,” she said.
Her mother, Nilab Nawadi, couldn’t be more proud.
“I love the fact that I have raised a daughter that is not selfish,” she said. “She’s caring, she has empathy, and it makes me happy to know that she’s doing such a great job.”
Samarsaidherfamilysupportsherinitiatives as much as they can.
“I would support her with everything she does,” Ms Nawadi said.
New schools are on track
Tarneit Plains Primary School in Mount Atkinson is one step closer to completion.
Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch announced that construction has officially started at the school, which is set to open in term one, 2026. In December, Blayne Wallis was appointed principal, and is set to start the role from term two this year The school is a supported inclusion school, with specialised facilities and capabilities designed to accommodate students with disabilities.
“We are proud to be delivering the new Tarneit Plains Primary School (interim name), which will offer capacity for up to 575 students, including 50 with disabilities, in the fast-growing west,” Ms Grigorovitch said.
Groundworks for the school, including inground service installation and pouring of slabs for the administration building, two learning neighbourhoods and the community
hub, began in November have since been completed.
Meanwhile Cobblebank’s supported inclusion school, Cobblebank Secondary School, has moved into the design stage. The secondary school is set to accomodate 865 students, including 65 students with disabilities.Ciar Foster has been appointed principal of Cobblebank Secondary School. The school is set to open in the first quarter of 2026.
Meanwhile, construction is ongoing at ToolernWatersPrimarySchoolinWeirViews. It is set to open in Term 1, 2026, with three learning neighbourhoods, administration and library building, outdoor hard courts, a community hub with indoor multi-use court, canteen and arts/music spaces, and a sports field. Samantha Fleming has been appointed principal.
Big night of Melton racing
A gold coin donation for entry to this Saturday night’s blockbuster harness racing meeting at Melton Entertainment Park could end up securing you a huge return.
The “Step Into Our World” A. G. Hunter Cup competition will see 10 people randomly drawn and allocated a horse in race six on the card.
When the race is over, horses that fill the placings will win their corresponding entrants a cash prize of $2000 (first), $1000 (second) and $500 (third).
The catch? You must be at Melton Entertainment Park to claim your prize, with entries taken via QR code around the venue.
While the night’s action will be hot on the track – headlined by the Sportsbet A. G. Hunter Cup and Yabby Dam Farms Great Southern Star – there’s also stacks to keep you entertained between races.
There will be urban market stalls, food trucks, free kids activities, roving entertainment, a live DJ and outdoor bar.
Gates open from 5pm, with the first race set for 6.04pm.
“I know that she does good, and it’s going to help the community, and I am 100 per cent for it.
“I came here as an immigrant and Australia has given us so much, so if we can give back to the community, why not? I want my kids to understand that.”
Faith Macale
For more information or to book race night dining, visit thetrots.com. au/events/2025-a-g-hunter-cup.\\
Tim O’Connor
IN
PERSONAL INJURY CLAIMS
Voted as one of the best lawyers and law firms in workcover and TAC claims in Victoria in 2018 - 2023 by Doyles Guide to the best lawyers in Australia.
Samar, 10, is raising money for local dog shelters. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 454961_01
Alana Cecil died 28 years ago in mysterious circumstances.
Awesome possum walk
A possum walk created a new attendance recordfortheEynesburyEnvironmentGroup.
Group member Daryl Akers said about a dozen people came to the possum walk on January 18 instead of the average of four that attends their events.
“For a while, it seemed as though we would be disappointed, but as the sky darkened and the evening star grew brighter low in the western sky, the brush-tailed possums slowly emerged from the many hollows of the possum tree,” he said.
“Myriads of stars became visible in the darkening sky, with Mars glowing brightly high in the northern sky.
“Surprisingly, we also noticed several microbats emerging from the hollows in the possum tree.”
The group, which included four children, were really excited to witness the animal in the wild.
Birthday bash for parkrun
Don your favourite Hawaiian shirts on Saturday, February 1 for Toolern Creek parkrun’s 10th birthday.
Run director Tracey Donald said it will be a big celebration with a beach party theme.
“We’re asking everyone to dress up, and just come down,” she said.
“A lot of runners, especially those who were there in the first event, we’re trying to get them all back, and celebrate that we’ve been going for 10 years.”
The parkrun’s 10th birthday is jam-packed with an expected 150 guests joining the run.
“We also have the Medibank truck coming
down which will give you free health checks, and they’ll have giveaways,” Ms Donald said.
“It’s going to be a big party vibe, so it’ll be really, really fun.”
Since the Toolern Creek parkrun began in 2025, more than 4000 people have attended, including at least 400 volunteers.
“It is a great community where everyone is welcome, and over the years some great friendships have been made, and we have seen babies grow into kids who are taking part themselves now.”
Toolern Creek parkrun’s birthday bash will beonSaturday,February1at7:45amatBridge Road, Strathtulloh.
“There was a bit of squealing which frightened the possums a bit but they came back,“ he said.
“One little girl, she had a notebook with her, and she wrote down that we saw 13 possums.”
Mr Akers said he was happy to see that the younger generation are taking interest in the country’s nature and wildlife. He said they were the future.
“A lot of people like me, we’re getting on in age,andwe’renotgonnabearoundforever,but it would be good to think that younger people developed interest in the local environment and wildlife.
“As they get older, hopefully they carry that on.”
Mr Akers encouraged the community to be mindful of the native wildlife that might stumble upon your backyard.
Briefs
Sprint car and other items seized
About $200,000 of stolen goods, power tools, personal items, a shotgun and a quantity of ammunition were seized at a property in Diggers Rest on Wednesday, January 15. Melton police are looking for the owners of the items. There were also a number of vehicles including trailers, cars, trucks, quad bike and tilt tray trucks seized, with some owners still to be identified. A particular item the police had been focusing on is a “sprint car”. The owner was found on Saturday, January 22
Infrastructure theft
Moorabool council has reported that the top railing posts of the guardrail along the walking track at Ballan Mineral Springs have been stolen, damaging council property and created significant safety risks for anyone using the walking track. Council is taking this matter seriously and will be addressing the damage as a priority.
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Toolern Creek parkrun directors Mel Fischer and Tracey Donald has a party planned for the run’s 10th anniversary. (Supplied)
Possums in the bush are usually quite timid but in an urban environment like Hannah Watts Park, they quickly become accustomed to human presence. (Supplied)
Hopes fuel plan will help prices
By Faith Macale
The state government announced a plan this week to lock and cap fuel price rises in Victoria, which Melton residents hope will mean their suburb no longer has some of the highest fuel prices in the western suburbs.
Melton resident Jordan Mizzi has been compilingdataonwesternsuburbs’fuelprices for a year and a half.
“A trend I’ve seen in the past year is that Melton service stations seem to move in sync with each other,” he said.
“They also hold their prices high for longer than everyone else.
“Melton fuel stations hold their prices steady at the top for two weeks out of a month long price cycle as opposed to a few days we see everyday.”
Mr Mizzi said that due to the high prices of petrol in Melton, some residents prefer to drive out of town to source cheaper fuel.
“One argument that we have is that it’s
cheaper to drive out to Bacchus Marsh,” he said.
“It might cost $2 to get there, but you’re actually saving $20 on a full tank.
“People are actually driving out of Melton to fill up, but not everyone can afford that.”
InOctober2024,MeltonMPSteveMcGhie’s office released a report into petrol prices in Melton.
The research found that Melton has the highest average petrol price per litre in the western suburbs, and that Melton has very little petrol price variation.
Mr McGhie alleges there has been fuel price gouging in Melton for years.
“I have raised it a number of times with the ACCC and Consumer Affairs,” he said.
“I had a parliamentary intern produce a report into fuel prices in Melton which showed by comparison we are paying the highest prices in metropolitan Melbourne.
“I have told our community to boycott Melton fuel stations until they lower their
prices in line with other locations.”
One of the recommendations in the study was to legislate the implementation of a state-run petrol price tracking application, which has resulted in the government’s Fair Fuel Plan.
The Fair Fuel Plan will require mandatory fuel price reporting from more than 1,500 fuel retailers across the state. Fuel companies will be compelled to publicly report their price changes the day before they take effect and lock in those prices for 24 hours. At present fuel price reporting is voluntary.
The plan and a new fuel finder feature on the Services Victoria app will be phased in over 2025.
Pressure grows to invest in the west
By Faith Macale
Advocacy group LeadWest is calling on the federal government to invest in Melbourne’s west at the upcoming federal election.
On Thursday, January 23, LeadWest announced its advocacy priorities saying that Melbourne’s west has been left behind and had not received its fair share of funding compared to other regions in Australia.
LeadWest chair and Melton councillor Phillip Zada said transport and infrastructure critically needed greater government investment.
“We actually have statistics show that the east side of Victoria, for example, has been getting more funding than the west in terms of large scale infrastructure projects,” he said. “We want us to grow.
“There’s a big push for public housing, and housing in general. We’ve got estates popping up left, right and centre, and we need the infrastructure to support that.
In Melton, Cr Zada said that there are “two and a half big ticket items”.
“First is the Western Highway, we need the road upgraded, we definitely need overpasses and we just need that fix,” he said. “We’ve also got the electrification of the Melton train line. We’re hoping with electrification, that potentially could open the doors to new stations.
“Lastly, fixing the Calder. Even though it’s right on the boundary of Melton and Brimbank, it is still something that we definitely need to look at because it is one of
the biggest and most used freeways, and we need that upgraded.”
Cr Zada stressed that Melbourne’s west is one of the more disadvantaged regions in Australia.
“The upcoming election offers an important opportunitytoredressthefundingimbalance, and to invest in Melbourne’s west, an area critical to help the federal government achieve its target to build 1.2 million new homes by 2029,” he said.
A federal government infrastructure
department spokesperson said they are working closely with the state government to deliver a credible and sustainable pipeline of projects that support transport productivity, resilience, sustainability and liveability.
The state and federal governments on Thursday announced that $333.5 million was being invested towards the Werribee Main Road – Princes Freeway Interchange upgrade and the Ballan Road intersection upgrade,“ they said.
Melton market goes dark
Melton Town Centre amphitheatre will host a night market on the first Fridays of February, March and April, featuring live music, traditional performances, market stalls and mouth-watering cuisines from around the globe.
Melton mayor Steve Abboushi said the Melton Night Markets are a fantastic way to celebrate the municipality’s cultural diversity.
“Immersing ourselves in other cultures and traditions is the best way to learn and build respect for one another,“ he said.
“Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the shared joy of diversity through food, music, and culture.”
TheMeltonNightMarketkicksoffwith the Asian Market on Friday, February 7, featuring a range of spectacular performances including Chinese Lion dancing, Japanese drumming, and Bollywood beats.
European charm will transform the town centre on Friday, March 7, with everything from Moulin Rouge shows to Oompah music, as well as a range of delectable European fare on offer.
An Oceania theme will cap off the night markets on Friday, April 4, with Polynesian dancing including the Haka and Hula, and more amazing cuisines. Eachmarketwillrunfrom5pmto9pm. Details: melton.vic.gov.au/night-markets.
Maribyrnong council’s Cr Susan Yengi, LeadWest chair Melton council’s Cr Phillip Zada and Brimbank council’s Cr Katherine Nikolic launches LeadWest’s advocacy priorities.
Dedicated volunteer honoured
By Faith Macale
Russell Hendry’s six decades of volunteering were recognised on Australia Day when he was named Moorabool’s Citizen of the Year.
He said it was an honour to be granted the title which was presented during a ceremony on Australia Day.
“I’m not good on getting awards, I usually just do action,“ he said.
“It’s appreciated, for sure.“
Mr Hendry has volunteered at many different organisations in Moorabool shire from sports clubs to emergency services for 60 years.
He was involved with the Coimadai Cricket Club as a player and volunteer between 1971
and 1974, and served as captain in 1973.
Mr Hendry has served the Bacchus Marsh Cricket Club as a committee member, president, player, coach and volunteer for more than 50 years and is still involved in the club.
He was a charter (founding) member of the Bacchus Marsh Lions Club in1972 and continues to be actively involved in the club.
Mr Hendry joined the Bacchus Marsh CFA in 2009 as a volunteer and member, and has not stopped since.
“It’s very satisfying,“ he said. “Working as a volunteer, it’s very satisfying too.
“You get your rewards out of the work you do, not in the awards you get.“
He was a charter (founding) member of
New citizens welcomed
A thousand Melton residents have become Australian citziens.
Melton council held three citizenship ceremonies across the long weekend, including on Australia Day.
Melton mayor Steve Abboushi said Australia Day is a time to celebrate the people who make the country that we are blessed to call home so special.
“It’s great to see so many conferees being sworn in this year in the City of Melton and reflects the amazing diversity of our wonderful city.”
New citizen Rozanna Nicdao, who is from the Philippines, said she’s ecstatic now that she’s an Australian citizen.
“Now that I’m an Australian citizen, I think I’ll have more opportunities, and then travel around the world,“ she said. “I’m really excited to have the blue passport.“
Ms Nicdao first came to Australia in 2018 and said that it has been a journey to finally be a citizen.
Her partner, John Lheynary Artillero said he was really happy for Ms Nicdao, and intends to become an Australian citizen too in the near future.
Meanwhile, Samoan-Ghanaian family, Gloria, and Issah Zakari, and their 15-year-old daughter, Lorisha, can now call themselves proud Australians.
“We’ve been here for over 10 years, so we’re very happy and excited,“ Gloria said.
“It wasn’t easy, we went through the process of permanent residency before the laws changed.
Issah said he’s excited to finally be an Australian citizen.
“I’m free to do what I want to do,“ he said.
“There are a lot of opportunities for me now.“
The Zakari family said anyone wanting to become an Australian citizen should just take the chance.
Faith Macale
the Bacchus Marsh Lions Club in 1972 and continues to be actively involved in the club.
Mr Hendry was surprised to be nominated, let alone win the award.
“When you look at it, there’s thousands and thousands of volunteers, and it’s just their normal life,“ he said.
“It’s just the way you live.
“I’ve always been like it, event into my working career, you look at helping other people.“
Mr Hendry encourages everyone to take part in the community.
“If they volunteer, they’re going in the right direction,“ he said. “It’s very good to think that people consider volunteering, and giving.
“It makes the world a better place.“
Melton and Moorabool gather to celebrate Australia Day
Rain didn’t dampen the Australia Day celebrationsinMeltonandMooraboolasmore than 1000 new citizens pledged their public commitment to Australia on Australia Day. Melton held three citizenship ceremonies, while Moorabool welcomed 34 new citizens and awarded its outstanding citizens with the Australia Day awards. Star Weekly’s Faith Macale was among the action.
Melton councillors take a selfie with Melton’s newest Australian citizens.
Moorabool mayor Paul Tatchell addresses the new Australian citizens of Moorabool.
Moorabool town crier Gavin Barker cried his last public announcement at the Moorabool Australia Day celebration.
Melton mayor Steve Abboushi administers the pledge of commitment to Melton’s new Australian citizens.
Glora Zakari, Lorisha and Issah Zakari are among Australia’s newest citizens.
Rozanna Nicdao celebrates her citizenship with her partner, John Lheynary Artillero, and baby Reinary. (Faith Macale)
Russell Hendry is Moorabool Shire’s Citizen of the Year. (Faith Macale)
Hints on managing menopause
By Faith Macale
Recently, a video of a woman with her head steaming on a cold night due to a hot flush has gone viral on TikTok.
With over 10 million views, people are learning more about hot flushes and why they happen.
Hot flushes are only one of the many symptoms women might go through during menopause.
Jean Hailes for Women’s Health chief executive Dr Sarah White said the menopause transitionhappenswhenawoman’sbodyruns out of eggs and ovarian function declines.
“You run out of eggs, you have these wildly fluctuating hormones, and as a result, you have symptoms,” she said.
“It’s that period where you have those symptoms is often called perimenopause.
“You go through this perimenopause phase, and then menopause itself is just one day in the calendar.
“It’s 12 months after your final menstrual period, so you don’t even know you’ve gone through menopause until it’s kind of happened already.”
Menopause transition has symptoms like hot flushes, night sweats and hormone fluctuations,butnoteverywomanexperiences symptoms.
“For about 25 per cent of women, they’ll
have virtually no symptoms or no symptoms at all,” Dr White said.
“For about another 25 per cent, they’ll have very severe symptoms during the menopause transition, and everybody else that has symptoms range from mildly annoying to reallyannoying,buttheycanallbemanaged.”
Dr White said most Caucasian women have hot flushes and night sweats which can get overwhelming.
“Ifithappensatnight,it’sanightsweat,”she said.
“It can wake you up and interfere with your sleep.
“For some women, it’s just unpleasant, for some annoying, and for some really quite debilitating.”
For some other ethnicities, for example, Asians, it could be joint pains, which are more common than hot flushes and night sweats.
“Your biology impacts, your psychology impacts, and in fact, your social and cultural norms impact how you experience menopause,” Dr White said.
Dr White said being in good health is the best way to prepare for menopause, with women encouraged to give particular thought to their bone and heart health in the their 30s.
“These are two things that once you go through menopause, become problematic,” she said.
“We want women to be exercising, so that’s both weight-bearing exercise, but also doing some lifting of weights.”
“One of the other things that happens during menopause is weight starts to shift on our body. A lot of women put on weight during menopause.
“That’s not inevitable, but the menopause does shift where that weight sits on your body to make it all come to the stomach phase, and that has implications for cardiovascular health later.”
Despite the different experiences, going through menopause is inevitable.
“If you have ovaries, you are going to go through menopause. There’s no avoiding it,” Dr White said.
“I really would like people to understand thateverybody’sexperienceisveryindividual. Some people will sail through, and they’re the lucky ones, some people will have a really difficult time, and we need to make sure that those women have the support they need.”
Dr Sarah White, chief executive of Jean Hailes. (Supplied)
Young Muslims using their voice
Conflict in the Middle East is affecting diaspora groups across the world. JAIDYN KENNEDY spoke
to two western suburbs
residents who are using their voice to help young Muslims at home and abroad.
The conflict in Gaza has paused, Israel and Hezbollah may have agreed to a ceasefire in southern Lebanon and the Assad political dynasty has been toppled in Syria, but the effects of war still reverberate across Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs.
While many Muslim members of the Lebanese, Syrian and Palestinian diasporas face the daily prospect of losing friends, family and property, two young Muslim professionals are advocating to ensure their dignity and identity are not lost.
Twenty-three-year-old lawyer Ghazi Zoghaib and 22-year-old Bachar Houli Foundation (BHF) representative Marwan El-Houli differ in profession, but are united by their faith and voice.
Mr Zoghaib first found himself advocating in a civic capacity as a year 6 student at Altona Green Primary School, as a member of the student representative body.
“We would co-ordinate with teachers on things that we thought would be beneficial for the students,” Mr Zoghaib said.
“I enjoyed being able to advocate for others and many suggested that I could be a very good lawyer one day.”
“I gave a speech in my year six graduation and remember telling my peers that after moving onto high school, I would one day become a lawyer.”
The laughter of a few detractors did not deter Mr Zoghaib as he fulfilled the message of his speech.
As he progressed through his studies, the notion of justice within the Australian legal framework became the guiding principle of his legal identity.
Accessibility, one of the defining tenets of Australian justice, can be hindered by a lack of financial resources and a lack of understanding the law itself.
Minimising these potential barriers has become the core of Mr Zoghaib’s professional philosophy and practise.
“My goal was to become a lawyer who is able to provide effective, efficient but most importantly affordable legal advice, in order to be a voice for the voiceless.”
“I truly view being a lawyer as a means to help people.”
“Many think it’s for financial reasons, but personally I genuinely want to play my role in society to help others.”
Mr Zoghaib also advocates through local non-for-profit organisations, co-ordinating youth events and programs, including many initiatives that provide financial aid to those in need overseas.
“Atthemoment,mymaingoalisadvocating fortheinnocentciviliansinbothLebanonand Palestine during the on-going conflict, with a
major focus on advocating for the provision of urgent financial assistance and aid to those in need,” he said.
While his voice and work stretch across the globe, the initial motivation was sourced close to home.
“What drew me to become a community leader was that while I was growing up, I felt that we, as Muslims and in particular Lebanese-Muslims, were not portrayed in the best of light,” he said.
“We faced a lot of unfair criticism.”
“I have therefore been driven to be a tool to show the rest of Australia that there are practicing Australian-Muslims like myself whoareverysuccessfulandwell-educatedina plethora of industries such as law, healthcare, construction and economics.”
“I want other young Muslims to feel that they can reach their dreams and goals while still being true to who they are.”
As the partnerships and stakeholder engagement co-ordinator at the BHF, Mr El-Houli harnesses the power of sport to bridge societal gaps.
“I’ve witnessed first-hand how sport serves as a powerful vehicle for community engagement, social cohesion, and advocacy,” he said.
“Through sport, young people don’t just build physical and leadership skills – they develop important life values like teamwork, respect, and resilience, which are the cornerstones of effective advocacy and bridging the gap between Muslim and non-Muslim communities.”
His work goes beyond the members of his own faith, but seeks to achieve a better society for all Australians.
“One of the most effective ways of bringing Mohammed and William, or Fatima and Emily, together to meaningfully interact is
through sport. In a team setting, individuals from diverse backgrounds unite around a shared goal. Sport has a unique power to break down barriers and establish genuine connections.
“While Australia is generally known for celebrating multiculturalism and religious diversity, some of the biggest issues that young Australian-Muslims currently face are related to identity, discrimination, and rising Islamophobia.”
Citing the particular moral and psychological impact the events in Gaza have had on those aged under 18, Mr El-Houli is striving to help Muslim youth achieve their best.
“The most rewarding part of my work is
helpingtheseyoungpeoplerepairandembrace their identities as Australian-Muslims with pride and confidence, ultimately guiding them toward becoming the best versions of themselves.”
“Now, more than ever, it’s crucial for all Australians to stand together in rejecting discrimination and supporting the inclusion of Muslim communities.”
The values of justice, compassion, humility, and integrity are the tools of Mr El-Houli in his pursuit to craft a better world.
“These teachings inspire me to lead by example, always striving to embody the principles of Islam in my daily actions. My faith drives me to contribute to meaningful change in the community.”
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
Book chats after dark
Do you wish you had a group of reader friends to chat with about that book you just finished? Join Book Chats after dark at Lerderderg Library, 215 Main St, Bacchus Marsh for monthly catch-ups to chat about what you’ve been reading, share book recommendations and enjoy a few snacks. This is an 18+ event, happening every first Thursday of the month. Stevie Fisher, 53667100
5X7 Art Prize
Artists in Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melton and Wyndham can take part at the annual 5X7 Art Prize. Participants can register to enter by attending in person at Louis Joel Arts & Community Centre, 5 Sargood Street, Altona on Wednesday, February 5, from 7pm to 9pm, at the art room, or on Saturday, February 8, from 10am until noon, at the foyer area. hbas@y7mail.com, or www. hobsonsbayartssociety.org.au
Bacchus Marsh CWA
An art sale with complimentary Devonshire tea will be held on Wednesday, February 19, from 1 to 3pm, for $5 an entry. Bacchus Marsh CWA is based at the Darley Community & Civic Hub, 182 Halletts Way (enter from Wittick Street). RSVP by Monday, February 17 Karin, karin.wilsonexchange@gmail.com, or 0417 344 968.
Movies in the Marsh
Movies in the Marsh is an opportunity to socially connect over something many love, movies. Movies in the Marsh is held at Lerderderg Library on the last Friday of each month. Next screening is on Friday, January 31. Booking is essential.
The Ballan Artists Collective has moved into its new home, and is ready to showcase it to the world. Members will hold a Pop Culture exhibit, the first in the new location at 123 Inglis St, Ballan on Friday February 7 until Sunday, March 2. ballanartistscollective@gmail.com, ballanartistscollective.com/
Women Working Together
A program connecting women aged 50 above in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Melton. 9655 2131, or EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au
Over-50s Sunday games
Life Activities Club Victoria is running a games and cards afternoon every Sunday from 2-4pm at Kurunjang Community Hub, 35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. A newly-created friendly group which enjoys sharing a laugh and making new friends. Everyone is welcome because “life is better together“. Deb, 9614 3017, office@life.org.au
Darley Neighbourhood House
The Darley Neighbourhood House and Learning Centre is at 33-35 Jonathan Drive, Darley. It offers free and low-cost activities for all. There is a monthly repair cafe, a community pantry, a fortnightly chatty cafe and venue hire is available. www.bit.ly/DNHnow, or 53674390
National seniors meeting
On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at The Club in Caroline Springs, with meals available to purchase. The branch also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities
such as theatre visits, bus trips and more. 0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@ outlook.com
Zonta club
Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. Meetings include guest speakers. Janet, 0421 080 923, info@ zontaclubofmelton.org.au
Melton Over 50s Social Group
Join a friendly group of people aged over 50 who enjoy each other’s company while attending events such as dinners, shows, dancing, cinemas and more. If you live in the Melton area and would like to meet new friends, in a welcoming group environment, this is for you.
Marlene, 0498 329 290
Rose carers of Maddingley Park
The group meets every Wednesday from 10am-noon at the Commemorative Rose Garden, Maddingley Park on the corner of Taverner Street and Grant Streets, Bacchus Marsh. They maintain the two rose gardens at the park. Volunteers are welcome and no experience is necessary to join .
Elaine, 0400 052 857 or Judy, 0428 463 538
Community band
The Greater Western Community Band meets Thursdays from 7.30 – 9.30pm. Rehearsal venue is the Bridge Road Community Centre, Strathtulloh (Melton South). The band is available for events. Brass, woodwind and percussion players are always welcome.
Melton Valley Ladies Probus
Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets on the second Friday each month at 10am at Melton Country Club. New members welcome.
Ann, 0425705150
Fishing club
Didyabringyarodalong Angling Club of Melton and Bacchus Marsh is a fishing club that welcomes and encourages people of all ages, genders and fishing abilities to partake in enjoying the outdoors in a relaxing and friendly environment. The club holds monthly fishing competitions at various locations, fresh and saltwater. New members are most welcome. Upcoming events will be listed on this page.
Andrew, 0407 303 438, or Wayne, 0414 785 366
Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens
The Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens recommences its activities this month, starting with the indoor bowls on Sunday, January 19, followed by bingo and cards on Tuesday, February 4. Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens looks forward to meeting up with new members at the Andy Arnold Centre 10 Bennett Street, Bacchus Marsh. hopem@optusnet.com.au
Melton Concert Band
Rehearsals are on Thursdays from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at the Bridge Road Community Centre, Bridge Road, Melton South. Musicians of any age who able to read Music are welcome to come along with their instrument (oboe, bassoon, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, percussion).
Please contact the number provided if you
are intending to visit. 0401 474 582
Australian Gold Panning Championships
The Australian Gold Panning Championships is on Saturday, March 1, at the Blackwood Cricket Ground Recreation Reserve Road, Blackwood. vicgoldpanning@gmail.com
Melton Trauma Teddies
Melton Trauma Teddies are seeking volunteers to assist with knitting, stuffing, or stitching teddy-bears that go to children in their time of need. Jean 0412 931 498
Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh
Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh make reusable shopping bags from rescued fabric. They need people to cut, sew, iron and market our bags. The group meets on the first Sunday each month at Darley Neighbourhood House, 2-5pm. https://63ec55b8628d6.site123.me/
Bacchus Marsh and District Garden Club
The club meets on the second Tuesday of each month except January, from 7.30pm, at The Laurels, 229 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh. Guest speakers and supper provided. Yearly membership $15. New members welcome. Michelle, 0421 106 268
Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club Meets on the first Thursday of every month from 10am to noon at the Avenue Bowling Club on 254 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh Krystyna, bacchusmarshladiesprobus@ gmail.com
Sally Hamond, 0401474582
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of St Albans Cricket Club’s Mitchell Pittaway ahead of Pink Stumps day on February 1. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 455296_01
Brimbank photographer in powerful exhibition
A Brimbank resident has contributed to a moving showcase depicting the resilience and fortitude of domestic violence survivors.
Photographs taken by Keilor Lodge’s Shannon Meilak form part of the ‘Black and White’ exhibition created by members from Underneath My Umbrella — an agency providing community support for women impacted by domestic, family and sexual abuse.
The exhibition features a collection of stories written by survivors of domestic and family violence.
Each narrators was coupled with an artist, who created a work on canvas to accompany their story.
In addition to these works, each of the narrators had their photographic portrait
taken.
ThesepictureswerecapturedbyMsMeilak, who said being involved in the exhibition was incredibly significant for her.
“The opportunity to participate in this exhibition was for me, more of a call to action,” she said.
“As a woman who has experienced sexual abuse, I wanted to uplift women who had been silenced, by helping them to tell their stories and to be seen.”
Whenpeoplewitnessthesetalesofcourage, Ms Meilak hopes they see the exhibition in a positive and empowering light.
“When women unite, we build inclusive and supportive communities,” she said.
“Whilstmostacknowledgethatmoreneeds to be done to protect women, my hope is that
visitors will recognise the strength required to share these stories, and inspire others to advocate for greater recovery support at the local level.“
Black and White will open at the Coonara Community House, in Upper Ferntree Gully on February 17.
Prealene Khera
Wicked wares at the fair
GetreadytohaveawickedtimeastheWitches Fair lands in Bacchus Marsh for the first time.
Organiser Michelle Richards said the event is a journey of “magik” where guests can explore an eclectic mix of stalls, each presenting an assortment of mystical supplies, Tarot readers, physic Mediums and rare treasures.
“It’s always farmer’s markets that come to country towns all the time,” she said.
“Doing something like the Witches Fair, which is for the alternative, and curiosities products and crafts, smaller towns tend to be sat on those opportunities.
“That was always the aim. More of a
minority product, but all-inclusive.
“It’s a lot of natural herbs and oils, and often a lot of entomology, like butterfly pinning.”
The Bacchus Marsh Witches Fair is free and open to all, but some activities on offer will need bookings made on the day.
“They’ll see a lot of crafts, a lot of handmade items, that’s for sure,” Ms Richards said.
“You can make appointments on the day with the actual tarot (readers), and psychics, as well.
“There’s a bit of everything for everyone.”
The Witches Fair first began in Lancefield, but Ms Richards said she fell in love with the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall when she opened
a stall in a market held at the venue a couple of years ago.
“It’s a great venue. The location is perfect, as well,” she said.
“We took a drive there and met up with one of the committee members, and decided then and there we wanted to try doing a few witch fairs this year, and broaden the location.”
The Bacchus Marsh Witches Fair will be held on Sunday, March 16 at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall.
Faith Macale
Film is a fine romance
Romance will have a green hue that is far from new this Valentine’s Day, and that is because a free outdoor movie screening of Shrek will be held at Wyndham Park on Friday, February 14.
Pre-movie themed entertainment will kick off at 6pm, before the blast from the past with an all star cast begins at 7pm.
Set in a land far away, love proves universal when it defines the adventures of Shrek and Donkey who become believers when they see the faces of Princess Fiona and Dragon.
Despite being a great flick for lovers, it is a full family affair– so you can bring along the kids and enjoy a night out together in celebration of true love, friendship and happy-ever-afters!
If you thought love was only true in fairy tales and meant for someone else but not for you, there’s nothing to lose in coming to watch a classic– you might just meet a damsel in distress or a misunderstood introvert with many layers that guard a good heart.
For those who might find themselves accidentally in love, it is early enough to go home together and put Shrek 2 on.
Picnics are permitted, alcohol is prohibited and movie goers are encouraged to monitor weather conditions, because if Shrek himself lived in Melbourne and was asked about the forecast he might say “You know, sometimes things are more than they appear.”
Footscray set to host fabulous First Nations showcase
Midsumma, Australia’s premier queer arts and cultural festival, is underway for 2025 and so too is its spin-off event, Midsumma Westside, with a number of events and performances being held across the western suburbs.
Among them is the upcoming Blak and Fabulous Performer Showcase at Pride of our Footscray Community Bar on Barkly Street.
Billed as an intimate but upbeat evening of First Nations performance and discussion, Blak and Fabulous will take place on Friday, January 31, at 8pm.
The year’s showcase will be headlined by the current reigning Miss First Nations Supreme Queen, Cerulean.
Joining Cerulean will be Stone Motherless Cold and event host 2JOOCEE, with each doing live performances as well as sharing their experiences of being queer First Nations creatives during question and answer sessions.
“The black and fabulous show is an amazing event,”saidPrideofourFootscrayCommunity Bar manager, Matthew O’Keefe.
“It’s the third year that it’s running. It used to be called the first nation’s drag festival and it was renamed to include a broader range of artists so it’s still first nations based, but includes singers and dancers rather than just drag queens,” he said.
Tickets are still available for the one hour showcase, one of a number of Midsummer Westside events Pride of our Footscray are hosting throughout the festival.
The night before, the Queer Comedy Gala willbeheldatthevenue,aswillABCDComedy on February 6, Magic Men of Summer Risque Revue on February 1 and All-Star Pride Drag Bingo on February 7.
Details: www.midsumma.org.au/whats-on/
Queer First Nations performer, Cerulean, will be appearing at the Blak and Fabulous showcase in Footscray on January 31. (Kyle Archie Knight)
Michelle Richards (right) and Guy Walter (left) are bringing the Witches Fair to Bacchus Marsh. (Damjan Janevski) 410897_02
Shannon Meilak from Keilor Lodge is the photographer behind the Black and White exhibition portraits. (Attie Mohebali) 452162_10
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which new US-based women’s 3-on-3 basketball league includes teams such as Mist, Phantom, and Lunar Owls?
2. Australian swimmer Shayna Jack is taking part in which Network 10 reality series?
3. The Australian leg of the 2024–25 SVNS international rugby sevens tournament
4. Which Network Nine sports presenter’s comments prompted Novak Djokovic to boycott an on-court interview at the 2025 Australian Open?
5. In 2024, which brand showcased their designer shoes in an impressively choreographed synchronised swimming routine?
Which Twenty20 cricket team has won the most BBL titles, with five?
The Sydney Sixers, Adelaide Strikers, Brisbane Heat and Sydney Thunder Twenty20 cricket teams have all won how many WBBL titles each?
Which Swiss road racing cyclist won the 2025 Women’s Tour Down
Which two NFL teams are set to play off in the 2025 AFC Championship game?
10. And which two NFL teams are set to play off in the 2025 NFC Championship game?
11. In which year did Nick Kyrgios first qualify for the Australian Open?
12. And which English tennis player eliminated Nick Kyrgios in straight sets during the first round of the 2024 AO men’s singles tournament?
13. What is the only gold standard World Athletics Continental Tour event held in Australia?
14. Australian international cricketer Kim Garth was born in and previously played international cricket for which other country?
15. What caused the majority of the Magic Millions horse race meeting to be delayed a week?
16. Which English acting Dame owns the racehorse Zenarinda?
17. At which Olympics did Romanian Nadia Comaneci become the first gymnast to score a perfect 10?
18. Which fast food brand sponsors the Big Bash League?
19. Australian Open third-seed Carlos Alcaraz is how old?
20. Australia’s Test tour against Sri Lanka is the first non-Ashes overseas men’s Test tour to be shown on free-to-air TV since which year?
21. Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir are the most decorated Olympic figure skaters of all time for which country?
22. How many players are on the court for one team during a game of volleyball?
23. Former Australian swimmer Emma McKeon is in a relationship with which fellow swimmer?
24. Paul Heyman is the current right-hand man of which WWE wrestler?
25. The sand-filled holes on golf courses are called what?
26. Sidney Crosby plays for which NHL team?
27. Which two drivers race for Ferrari in Formula 1? 28. In what year is the next
And where is it
Winter Olympic Games? 29.
being held? 30. What colours are the Tasmania Football Club?
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.
ACROSS
1 Eight-legged animal (6)
4 A board game with letter-tiles (8)
9 Mosquito-borne disease (7)
11 Inhabitant of Tel Aviv, say (7)
12 Level of hot or cold (11)
13 Biological blueprint (1,1,1)
14 Food of the Olympian gods (8)
16 Banish (5)
19 Teams (5)
20 A golden anniversary (8)
22 Dazzle (3)
24 English scientist who explained gravity (5,6)
26 Territory ruled by an Islamic monarch (7)
27 Princess Diana’s maiden name (7)
29 Grotesque imitation (8)
30 For blinking (6)
DOWN
1 Total (3)
2 Pakistani capital (9)
3 Spooky (5)
5 Sex (6)
6 Contract (9)
7 Bakery item (5)
8 Period of 17th-century English queen (11)
10 A Middle Eastern language (6)
12 Clear (11)
15 Stubborn (9)
17 Exactly the same (9)
18 Carnival (6)
21 Aptitude (6)
23 Nickname of Eva Perón (5)
25 Dirge (5)
28 Colour of strawberries (3)
1 What colours appear on Norway’s flag?
2 True or false: Hurricane Sandy was the largest Atlantic hurricane on record by diameter?
3 Hilary Duff (pictured) starred as Sophie in which sitcom?
4 Podgorica is the capital of which country?
5 Laurence Tureaud is the birth name of which US actor?
6 Lake Garda is located in which European country?
7 Which 2021 film stars Jenna Ortega and Maddie Ziegler?
8 Which actress stars as Katniss Everdeen in the Hunger Games film series?
9 The Space Needle is in which US state?
10 Who was the Australian prime minister when decimal currency was introduced?
Honda ZR-V is pick of the bunch
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
You might think the ZR-V is the smallest of Honda’s SUVs but you’d be wrong because the latecomer actually slots between the HR-V and long-serving CR-V.
It’s taken us a while to catch up with the ZR-V, but it has been worth the wait because ZR-V is the pick of the bunch.
STYLING
ZR-V is a good-looker, in an understated way with its Maserati-inspired grille.
It’s available in three petrol-only grades plus a range-topping hybrid, petrol-electric version. Prices start at $39,900 for the VTi X, followed by $43,400 for the VTi L, $49,900 for the VTi LX and $55,400 for the hybrid e:HEV LX.
All prices are driveaway.
Our test vehicle was the ZR-V VTi LX priced at $49,900.
Standard kit includes 18-inch wheels, LED lights front and back, leather trim, dual-zone climate control, 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, keyless entry and push-button start, walk-away door locking, power adjustment for the front seats, heated front and rear seats, plus heated steering wheel.
There’s also rear privacy glass, a frameless, an electric parking brake, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, traffic sign recognition, auto high beam, auto lights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors and a hands-free power tailgate.
A space saver spare is supplied in the event of a flat tyre.
ZR-V comes with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with 24/7 roadside assistance and five years of free access to Honda connected services for what it’s worth.
Service is 12 months/10,000km and capped at $199 per visit.
INFOTAINMENT
Infotainment is headlined by a smallish 9.0-inchtouchscreen,withbuilt-innavigation, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, Bluetooth with support for voice control and audio streaming wireless Apple Carplay and wired Android Auto and over-the-air updates.
There are two USB ports in the front, one USB-A the other USB-C, plus two more USB-C ports in the back and 12 volt outlets in the front and luggage area.
Wirelesschargingisstandardonthismodel.
SAFETY
ZR-Vunexpectedlyscoresafour-starsafetyfor Australia,despitehaving11airbags,including front-centre and driver’s knee airbag.
Apparently, a different front bumper beam is fitted to Australian vehicles, which affected test performance in some test impact locations.
While no observable effect on test performance was identified, ANCAP says Honda is yet to provide information as to why the additional beam has been excluded.
Active safety includes autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control with low-speedfollow,driverattentionmonitoring, lane-keep assist, traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, front and rear parking sensors, plus tyre pressure monitoring.
ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS
The 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine drives the front wheels through a CVT-style continuously variable automatic transmission. It produces 131kW of power at 6000 rpm and 240Nm of torque between 1700 and 4500 rpm.
DRIVING
It’s inoffensive, comfortable and easy to drive,
and provides adequate accommodation for four adults - five at a pinch.
The cabin feels classy with soft-touch surfaces and a full-width mesh grille that hides the normally exposed front air vents. Controls are simple and generally easy to use as we have come to expect from Honda over the years.
Physical buttons are offered to the right side of the touchscreen for oft used functions, with other controls are located lower down for the air conditioning.
The instrument panel can be configured as dials or bars and you can select detailed information to display, but it lacks the bells and whistles of competitor systems.
The transmission supports manual gear changes, with change paddles and six steps or pseudo gears.
Therearealsothreedrivemodesfromwhich to choose: Eco, Normal and Sport, which are self-explanatory.
Fuel consumption for this model is a claimed 7.2L/100km and it takes standard 91 unleaded.
We were getting 8.0L/100km from the 57-litre tank after about 250km of driving, including an enthusiastic spell on our favoured test route.
This is very close to the long-term 8.1L/100km average that the car showed after almost 2000km.
The 1.5-litre turbo feels a little underdone on torque, but plant it and the thing takes off well enough.
Wetriedthisseveraltimesandalthoughthe initial response was a little tardy, it quickly recovered, the revs ramping up to around 5500 rpm where the needle hovered.
We kept waiting for the transmission to change up, but of course that didn’t happenbecause it’s a CVT.
Instead, like a rubber band, the drive ratio changes to optimise response.
Sport mode proved pretty good, but for ultimate control changing gears manually produced the most satisfying result.
Ride and handling are surprisingly good, remembering this is a one-size-fits-all family SUV.
We had to push quite hard to get the car out of shape.
Not unexpectedly, the engine does become a little harsh under hard acceleration.
But engine, wind and road noise are fairly subdued the rest of the time — with the exception of coarse bitumen.
It’s a common theme.
Unlike CarPlay, Android Auto requires a cable to connect your phone to the infotainment system, with a choice of USB-C or older USB-A ports in front.
Having just purchased a new cable for this task, we were disappointed to discover that the USB-C to C port does not support data transfer.
Unlike the X-Trail that we drove recently, however, we were able to maintain a stable USB connection with USB-A.
So, remember to pack one of each sort just in case.
According to the specs, this thing is supposed to have a premium Bose 12-speaker sound system, including a subwoofer.
Not seeing it guys. Where are the badges declaring its existence?
If you’ve got it, flaunt it - that’s what we say.
SUMMING UP
The only blot in the ZR-V’s otherwise spotless copybook is the price, that and the four-stars for safety.
At $49,000 it’s pretty steep for what is a smallish SUV, especially when you line it up against the cheaper and larger Chinese offerings.
And therein lies the problem, not just for Honda but all the established brands in the Australian new car market.
At least Honda has a strategy.
The only blot in the ZR-V’s otherwise spotless copybook is the price, that and the four-stars for safety. (Supplied)
It may have been a long weekend but it didn’t stop local sporting competitions from making the most of the sunny weather. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting the action.
Long weekend sporting hits
Tarneit Central’s Gurjeet Singh Manes. 55344_01
Tarneit Central. 455344_16
Werribee’s Matthew Burton. 455343_08
Spotswood’s Jakson Knight. 455340_01
Spotswood’s Declan O’Brien. 455340_05
Taylors Lakes’ Saihaj Jaspal. 455343_01 Druids’ Samuel Hall. 455342_01
PEGS’ Omar Phillips. 455337_01
Altona Roosters’ Dishnaka Manoj. 455337_04
Altona North’s Asela Aluthge. 455342_18
Harper makes Sydenham-Hillside history
Matthew Harper was there for day one when Sydenham-Hillside made the move into senior cricket.
Twenty-six years later, Harper is still playing in the same team and he become the first person to play 300 senior games at the club.
Speaking before the milestone, Harper said it was pretty special to become the first person to play 300 games.
“I started off at the club as a kid,” he said. “I was two years in juniors in under-14s and under-16s before seniors even started.
“I played in the first game for the club [second XI] 26 years ago. I was a 16-year-old kid.
“I played the first game with my father, I was not thinking about what happened 26 years later.”
A lot has changed since Harper first began. Harper is now a lawyer and with his wife, their law firm is one of the club’s major
sponsors as they look to give back to the club.
He’salsoalargepartofthejuniorprogram.
“We didn’t even have changerooms,” he said. “We caught up after the game at one of the players’ houses.
“It was pretty basic. We weren’t always a turf club, we played on matting before that.”
Harper said the friendships were the biggest thing he takes out of his time at the club.
He said many stopped playing 10-15 years ago, but they were still really good mates.
“Most don’t play now, but we are still friends,” he said. “Having that social outlet, your friends group of out that.
“I’m so appreciative of the club for being able to facilitate those friendship groups.”
Harper said the 2016-17 second XI premiership, which was the club’s first on turf, was also a pretty special moment.
He also won a premiership in 2006-07 while the club was still in the North West
Metropolitan Cricket Association.
Harper has also won the club’s president medal in 2011-12, most valuable player award in 2011-12 and 2021-22, and the Muir Shield competition batting average in 2011-12.
Harper said he wasn’t good enough to play in the first XI, but still enjoyed his cricket just as much anyway.
The Storm had a function on Saturday to honour Harper and had invited his friends and family down for the day.
Harper said he knows that he’s starting to get to his end of his playing career.
He said he hopes his two young children will eventually play at the club, while when he hangs up the whites he won’t be lost to the club.
“I’ll always be part of the club watching or playing.”
Tara Murray
Lions look for positives
By Tara Murray
Melton’s back part of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association south-west season won’t be defined by how many wins it has on the board.
The Lions have struggled this season with just one win in the Saturday competition and one win in the T20 competition.
Lions coach Damian Costigan said they wanted to continue to build and see improvement as a group and individually.
“We’re seeing what we can get out of the season,” he said. “We want to get some wins in terms of developing the youth.
“We’re excited with what is coming through and we just want to get wins out of the playing list.
“We need to play competitive cricket for longer.”
The Lions two wins so far have come in T20 matches. Costigan said that the shorter format allowed them to take the pressure off.
“We would love a few more,” he said.
“The boys have been impressive in the T20 stuff and we have got a couple of wins there.
“They are just enjoying it.
“They have worked hard and are putting in second to none. It’s a reward for them and it boosts morale.”
Melton lost its second match of the T20 competition on Tuesday night, to knock it out of finals contention.
The Lions, who were facing St Bernard’s OC, batted first and were bowled out for 100. Jack Dickson top scored with 22.
The Snowdogs hit the winning runs with three overs remaining, finishing 3-103.
It was single wicket takers for the Lions.
Costigan said in longer format they need to sustain a higher level for longer and not have as many lapses.
He said they were starting to see some more experienced players come back through the grades including Conrad Farrugia, Alex Kerr and Chris Hopes was helping.
Costigan said the most exciting thing was that there was so much talent in all their sides, it was just a couple of years of putting it altogether.
“It is really exciting more come through in the seconds and thirds as well,” he said. “I’m excited for what the future holds.
“We’ll try and develop some stuff around training and do a lot of work for the rest of the season.”
On Saturday, the Lions lost to Altona.
The A’s made 176 before the Lions were bowled out for 124 in reply.
In good signs, the Lions under-15 J G Craig Shield side is undefeated and through to the semi finals after another good win on Sunday.
Costigan said coach Joel Mitchener had put
Larry sets up Hunter Cup
The premier pacer in this part of the world, Leap To Fame, is on track to defend his Sportsbet A. G. Hunter Cup crown after a regulation win in the Casey Classic at Melton on Saturday night.
Grant Dixon allowed the six-year-old time to balance up before wrestling the lead off Tact Mcleod inside the first 400 metres, with visiting Kiwi Republican Party working around to sit parked over the 2240 metres.
Tact Mcleod did his best to make a contest of the race in the straight and got to within a metre and a half of Leap To Fame on the line as the champion reeled off a slick 26-second last 400 metres to record a mile rate of 1.52.6.
Dixon said he felt the need to keep Leap To Fame’s mind on the job after finding the lead.
“He seemed pretty good. He was probably a bit casual in front until I pulled the plugs out and got him back on the bit, but he was good on the line,” Dixon said.
Dixon was happy that the run will have the son of Bettors Delight at his peak for his Hunter Cup assignment.
“The other horse got close to me in the end, but he wasn’t going to let him past. I think the run will do him good for next week as he’s got to go to 2800 (metres) and it will do to sharpen him up a bit more,” he said.
Leap To Fame is the $1.50 favorite for Saturday night’s Group 1 $250,000 Hunter Cup at Melton.
Emerging trotter Keayang Chucky gave his rivals a start and a beating withastunningwinintheWoodlands Stud Dullard Cup.
The Marg and Paddy Lee-prepared six-year-old blundered in the score up, settling 40 metres off the body of the field while his main danger Queen Elida worked to the lead mid race.
Jason Lee pulled Keayang Chucky four wide down the back, but was still giving Queen Elida 20 metres on straightening.
Keayang Chucky unleashed a powerful finishing burst to reel in Queen Elida over the concluding stages.
John Dunne
Matthew Harper. (Supplied)
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McCormack departs Darley in a surprise move
Darley coach Di McCormack has made the call to step back from the Ballarat Netball League club.
The Devils announced on Friday that McCormack had made the decision to step away after five years at the club.
“After an incredible five years, Di has decided that it is time to step away to spend more quality time with her family,” the club said on social media.
“We are so eternally grateful for all the work she has put into the club over the last several years and the evident progress we have achieved under her leadership.
“Multiple finals appearances, grand finals and BFNL league awards are only a few of the accolades we were lucky to have under Di’s guidance.
who have been the core of the A-grade side in recent years.
The club’s A-grade side has played in three straight grand finals, having never made an A-grade grand final before in the Ballarat league.
The club’s under-19s also made three straight grand finals, winning the last two with many of those players progressing through the ranks.
All the A-grade squad has signed on for this year.
rewarding and cherished of my entire netball coaching journey, and I am filled with so much love and gratitude for everything this club has given me.
“Iamincrediblyproudofallwe’veachieved together as a club over the past five years. It wasn’t just me who built such a fantastic netball program. It was the incredible group of girls who trusted me as their coach, the support of an amazing committee who always had my back, and the collective efforts of so many.”
“Although we are so sad to see her go, we are thankful for the last seven years and wish her well for her much deserved time with family.”
On the Devils post, McCormack said she was a little heartbroken having made the decision.
McCormack joined the Devils after having coached Rupertswood to a premiership in the Riddell District Netball League in 2019. With her came across a number of players
“Leaving Darley has been one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make,”she said. “I will always be a Devil at heart.
“My years at Darley have been the most
Butt wants more history
By Lachlan Mitchell
What Bart Cummings is to the Melbourne Cup,AnthonyButtistotheA.G.HunterCupa true champion with a record seven victories spanning more than 30 years.
The Kiwi reinsman sits in clear air at the top of the honour roll with not even the late great Vin Knight coming close with two successes.
The 58-year-old won his first Hunter Cup in 1994 with Blossom Lady, who also gifted Butt his second the very next year.
“I won most when I was based in New Zealand and it was always a really good race for the New Zealand horses,” Butt said.
“You could come through the New Zealand Cup in the spring and get them used to the standing starts, and it always suited the New Zealand horses really well.”
The current distance of 2760m is much shorter than Butt’s first win in 1994 over 3280m, with the race moving from a standing start to a mobile in 2017.
“It is a long-distance race. They need to have
a good foundation before they get here. It’s not like a sprint race,” he said.
“It is one of the three bigger races in Australia with the Miracle Mile and the Inter Dominion. Great horses were winning even before my time.
“I always found the big races are the easiest to drive in and all the form is easily exposed – you know the horses and the strengths and weaknesses, and you know how things are going to pan out.
“It’s easier to drive in maybe over a maiden race in the bush.”
The Harkness-based horseman’s last win came over a decade ago in 2013 with Mah Sish, but the winner of over 60 Group 1 races puts his maiden Hunter Cup at the top.
“The first one with Blossom Lady because I was pretty young and I brought her for my grandfather who was training her,” he said.
“That was my first big win in Australia, but they have all been good and they’ve all been different with different story lines.
“Mister D G (2004) was great because he
was the son of Blossom Lady with the same group of owners.
“Mr Feelgood (2009) was also great because he had just come over from the U.S.A.”
The honour that comes with being a seven-time champion is not lost on Butt.
“When you start driving, you wish you could win any of those big races,” he said. “As akidgrowingup,allthebestKiwiswouldrace all the best Aussies.”
Butt will chase his eighth Sportsbet Hunter Cup on Saturday at Melton Entertainment Park with Tact Mcleod for Kiwi trainer Mark Jones.
The horse produced a top performance to finish a close second to champion rival Leap To Fame in Saturday night’s Casey Classic.
The Hunter Cup will be one of two major features on the February 1 card at Melton alongside the Group 1 Great Southern Star for the trotters.
In the Great Southern Star, horses compete in heats early in the night and then qualifiers back up for the final later in the evening.
“I will miss Darley more than words can express. You are an incredible, talented, and sensational group, and it has been an honor to coach you.”
The Devils haven’t announced McCormack’s replacement.
Tara Murray
Sports shorts
Ballarat NL
Bacchus Marsh has added key defender Ella Logan to its squad for the Ballarat Netball League season. Ella brings a wealth of skill and experience to the court, along with impressive height that strengthens her dominance in the defensive third,” the club said. “Her ability to read the game and anticipate opposing moves allows her to effectively shut down attackers, making her a formidable presence on defence.”
Ballarat FL
Chris Lear and Jamie Fulton are headed to Maddingley Park for the Ballarat Football League season. Lear joins Bacchus Marsh from the Suns in the Western Football League, where he was a premiership player. Fulton comes to the Cobras from Bell Park in the Geelong Football League and is currently playing in the Northern Territory Football League over the summer.
VFL
Mace Cousins has become the second Darley player to sign with Werribee in the Victorian Football League. A graduate of the Western Jets, Cousins has shown his ability to impact the game both offensively and defensively as a part of that back six. Cousins brings exciting potential after being named Geelong’s best first-year player in 2023. The 22-year-old arrives at Werribee having played 12 VFL games, with the dashing defender averaging more than 13 disposals and five marks per game. Bacchus Marsh’s Isaac Nixon has also joined Werribee.
A-League
Western United has added another explosive young talent to its A-League Men roster, securing goalkeeper Alex Nassiep to the longest contract in the club’s history. The 18-year-old has committed until June 2028, seeing him spend the next three-and-a-half years developing his trade at Ironbark Fields. Standing at 194 centimetre tall, Nassiep has been in the Western United Academy since 2023 and risen through the ranks.
Di McCormack. (Supplied)
The A.G Hunter Cup crown is on Saturday night. (Supplied)
Royals keep the winning momentum going
A coaching change has done little to halt the Melton South Royals run in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Evans-Clark Shield.
The Royals sit atop the table after nine rounds, undefeated and playing some good cricket.
Despite the results on field, the Royals decided to part ways with coach Adam Miller over the Christmas break.
Royals president Paul Davies said they thought the time was right to make the decision.
“As a committee we made the decision what we thought was the best for the club moving forward not only this season, but into next season.”
Davies said they were happy with the results this season, with their second XI now starting to get some wins on the board as well.
In the first XI, things couldn’t be going much better.
Leigh Edwards. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
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“It is exciting to see the pleasing results that have gone so far this season,” he said.
“Everyone in the firsts have done their part and we want to make sure we keep on the winning path.”
On Saturday, the Royals easily accounted for Roxburgh Park in a one-dayer.
The Falcons were sent in and bowled out for
just 101 in the 31st over.
Zaid Hirani took 5-40 for the Royals.
Davies said the most pleasing thing for them was the batting performance. The Royals batters at times this season have lost clumps of wickets and made the task harder for the bowlers.
The Royals lost just two wickets in the run chase, finishing 2-102.
“Our batsmen did what they needed to and only two wickets down,” he said.
“Our bowlers have done the job all season. Our batsmen got the job done.”
Leigh Edwards top scored with 50 not out for the Panthers.
Davies said despite the good position the side finds itself in, they weren’t looking too far ahead.
“We’ll take it one week at a time,” he said. “We have a couple of tough games coming up and hopefully we’ll get through those and
Bulls fall short in the T20
By Tara Murray
Bacchus Marsh’s hopes of a first Ballarat Cricket Association title were dashed on Sunday as it fell short in the T20 grand final. Playing in their first grand final since joining the competition, the Bulls proved no match for Ballarat Redan.
Ballarat Redan batted first and made 4-167 from its overs. Sam Crea took two wickets for the Bulls.
At 3-104 the Bulls had a good platform, but the wickets started to flow. They lost 7-25 to be all out for 129.
Will Lalor top scored with 29.
Speaking before the game, Crea said the group was keen to taste some success.
“It’s really awesome,” he said. “We’ve started to put ourselves in the mix in the T20 and we’re in a good position in the normal season as well.
“We are really excited to play in the game… We’ll have some really good players playing for us and so will they.”
The Bulls made the grand final after beating Golden Point in the semi finals on Tuesday night.
Golden Point made 6-143 from its overs. Matthew Crea was the only multiple wicket taker for the Bulls with two.
The Bulls hit the winning runs with more than two overs remaining, finishing 3-144. It was a familiar name stealing the show for the Bulls.
Victorian Premier Cricket players Jack and Daniel Lalor returned to their home club for the match.
Daniel made 45 off 37 balls, while Jack made 47 off 33 balls. Their cousin Will was also in the runs, finishing 17 not out.
Crea said having Jack and Daniel back at the club was really good for everyone involved.
He said Jack’s performance was enormous while Daniel’s innings was just as good if not better.”
“It’s massive what they can bring off the field,” he said. “The professionalism, the mannerisms.
“The younger boys get such a good opportunity to learn off them and talk about cricket.
“I’ve been part of cricket for a long time and I understand it.”
Crea said Jack and Daniel were quick to ask when the grand final would be, as they wanted to put their hands up to play.
‘I haven’t had to call them and ask them to play,” he said. “Jacob Pawlowicz and Archie Lalor have been prepared to play for us too.”
While the focus was on Sunday, the Bulls had day two of their two-day match with Golden Point first on Saturday.
Golden Point made 240 on day one.
“Last night [Tuesday] we were talking
about being focused on Saturday,” Crea said before day two. “We want to play finals. If we make 241 we potentially put ourselves in a good position to play finals.”
The Bulls did exactly that, hitting the winning runs with three overs remaining.
consolidate our spot at the top of the ladder.” Elsewhere, Sydenham-Hillside got another win in the senior division competition.
Facing Airport West St Christophers, the Storm made 188 with Gayashan Weerasekara top scoring with 40.
The Eagles fell well short, bowled out for 104. Sanka Ramesh Abeyruwan took four wickets.
In the Roy Picone Shield, Caroline Springs bounced back and got a big win against East Keilor.
East Keilor was bowled out for 117 with the Falcons making the runs two down, finishing 2-118.
Meanwhile in the Russell Pollock Shield, Burnside Springs United had a big win over Barkly Street Uniting, while Melton Centrals lost to Pascoe Vale Central.
Tara Murray
Western United came away with points in both its matches last week to charge back into finals contention in the A-League Women.
On Tuesday night, United beat strugglers Perth Glory 4-1 to charge back into finals contention.
CoachKatSmithwantedlastFriday’s 1-1 draw with Melbourne City to be a “line in the sand” that set up United’s back end of the season.
It clearly worked with United dominatingfromtheget-goatIronbark Fields, registering 24 shots (10 on target) to Perth’s eight (two).
An own goal from Glory’s Claudia Valletta in the 36th minute, courtesy of a mis-timed attempted clearance, gave United an early advantage.
Two minutes later, Grace Maher doubled the lead with an Olimpico - a goal direct from a corner kick - that her teammates watched nestle inside the net at the back post with glee.
United’s Melissa Taranto joined the party in the 71st minute, letting loose a long-range skidding shot that beat goalkeeper Casey Dumont and landed in the bottom corner of the net.
Gabby Hollar gave Perth a brief lifeline 10 minutes later when she scrambled home from a corner.
ButAimeeMedwinsealedvictoryfor United in the 87th minute.
A Kiara De Domizio attempted shot deflected into Medwin’s path and she toepoked home at the back post.
On Saturday, United was back in action against Adelaide United.
While Western had a dominant display across the 90 minutes, it had to settle for a draw.
Adelaide took the lead inside the opening 10 minutes despite a strong start from the visitors, but that turned out to be really the only joy the hosts had in their attacking third.
Western commanded proceedings from there on and finally equalised in the 61st minute via Catherine Zimmerman’s third goal of the season.
Chances went begging and the final ball was at times just an inch away from falling in Western’s favour, giving Kat Smith and her side a great deal of confidence to take into the coming weeks. Western now sits seventh, only goal difference outside the top six.
Darley slipped to seventh after not being able to defend 342 against Mt Clear. Mt Clear
Bacchus Marsh finished 8-241 with Will Lalor top scoring with 88. With three rounds remaining, the Bulls sit in second spot.
