Triplets take over
Kurunjang Secondary School is having triple the fun with a new set of triplets starting their first year of high school.
Triplets Yahya, Nuh, and Hud, 12, said they had a fun first day of school and are excited for the year.
“It’s been pretty good,” Hud said.
“There’s more subjects, and I feel like there’s more time to learn everything.” Yahya said they have been making friends quite easily, but many still mistake them for their siblings.
Now that they are in high school, each one said they are excited to explore new things they didn’t get to experience in primary school.
Yahya said he is excited to try AVID, a learning opportunity for maths, science, and literacy, while Hud is excited to learn about computers.
Meanwhile, Nuh wants to make new experiences together with his brothers.
“I want to play sports together,” he said.
“We play soccer and basketball.”
Gordon digs for answers
By Faith Macale
Gordon residents are campaigning against an application for a mining exploration licence that will cover the town.
Steadfast Mining Services has lodged an application for an exploration licence with Resources Victoria.
If approved, the licence will cover land 5.1 kilometres west of Ballan, 4.9km south of Spargo Creek, 1.6km north of Bungal, 2.6km east of Millbrook and the town of Gordon for five years.
Gordon residents said mineral and mining exploration would threaten the peaceful open
spaces and natural surroundings of the town.
ResidentsDemiCooperandMarkPerriman have started a petition against the exploratory license.
Ms Cooper said Gordon is home to about 1393 residents. She said the community just wants Steadfast to “mind their own business”.
“We just see them as very disingenuous in their practices and how they engage with the community,” she said.
“There’s a lot of questions that are being left unanswered, and the person who we wish would answer is not stepping up.
“It might be one licence to the state, but it’s a lifestyle, community, and a township to a
thousand of people on the line.”
Ms Cooper said residents have asked Steadfast managing director Terry Delahunty to speak to the community at the town hall – a request she said he refused.
“If a community is pushing back on somebody with interest in mining in their town as something which the community doesn’t want, I say it’s worthwhile listening to the community,” Ms Cooper said.
Mr Delahunty said Steadfast has complied with the appropriate community consultation requirement of the application, which was to advertise it in local and statewide papers.
“This is a simple application over ground
that we have already held, in the recent past, with absolutely no disturbance to anyone,” he said.
“The advertisements also directed interested people to links to further government published information that clearly explains the rights and obligations.”
Mr Delahunty said he will advise the community of any pending field work.
“Until such time that if and when we discover anything worth further investigation, and have a plan on how to proceed, then we will happily detail those plans to all stakeholders, foremost being, the community,” he said.
Triplets Nuh, Yahya, and Hud, 12, on their first day of high school. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 456369_01
STAY INFORMED
Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial
Melton Night Market this Friday!
The Asian Market will kick off the Melton Night Market series this Friday 7 February from 5pm to 9pm at the Melton Town Centre Amphitheatre.
Featuring spectacular performances including Chinese Lion dancing, Japanese drumming, and Bollywood beats.
A range of delicious food will also be on offer including Asian street food, Chinese dumplings, Sri-Lankan Kottu, Vietnamese Banh Mi, Indian curries and more!
For information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/night-markets
$50 cat adoption
Council has a large number of cats and kittens at our Animal Pound looking for their forever homes, and for a short time the adoption fee has been reduced to $50.
All animals are desexed, microchipped, and vaccinated.
To view the cats available, go to melton.vic.gov.au/animal-adoption or visit the pound at 90-92 High Street Melton between 9.30am-11am and 3pm-4.30pm, 7 days a week.
Watts Ward with Cr Sophie Ramsey
Firstly, I’d like to thank the residents of Watts Ward for electing me as their Councillor. As always, it’s an absolute honour to serve this community, and I can assure you that the messages we received in the lead up to the election were heard loud and clear.
You want Council to focus on our road network, waste disposal and recovery, and on delivering quality services to our residents. You also want us to advocate to the State and Federal Governments for the infrastructure
and services many other communities take for granted: health, transport, roads, and education.
Council has hit the ground running with regular meetings, briefings, and community events underway. In fact, last week, I had the privilege of witnessing nearly 1,000 residents being conferred as new Australian citizens. What a joy it was to share this moment with so many.
We have a number of parks and gardens consultations open; we’ve commenced the exciting process of developing our new Council and
Kindergarten Readiness
Council will be holding online information sessions and open days for parents interested in finding out more about 3- and 4-year-old kindergarten in the City of Melton for 2026.
PARENT INFORMATION SESSIONS – ONLINE:
Tuesday 18 February 6.30pm – 8pm
Thursday 20 February 12.30pm – 2pm
KINDERGARTEN OPEN WEEK: Tuesday 11 March to Thursday 13 March
For information about the online sessions and open days or how to register your child for kindergarten, visit melton.vic. gov.au/kindergarten
Wellbeing Plan. Please take the opportunity to have your say on each of these by visiting conversations. melton.vic.gov.au
Finally, as the kids head back to school, I hope parents finally have the chance to exhale after the long summer break. Let’s look forward to a great year ahead, both individually, and as a community.
Don’t hesitate to contact me at sophie.ramsey@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 067. I’d love to hear your thoughts about Watts Ward.
I would like to begin by congratulating the nearly 1,000 residents who officially became Australian citizens last week. It was my absolute pleasure to preside over the three citizenship ceremonies hosted by Council and to see so many people come together to celebrate as a community.
It’s also great to see another school year kick-off and we wish students returning to the classroom all the best for the year ahead.
Let’s not forget our pre-schoolers who are also commencing their educational journeys. Council runs 27 kindergartens for 3-4-year-old kindergarten, and over the next couple of months we will be running information sessions and open days for our 2026 intake. If you have a child who will be ready for kindergarten next year, I encourage you to explore what we have on offer through our Kinder Readiness program.
I’m also pleased to share that works on the Bulmans Road upgrade are complete. The upgrade will increase safety and reduce congestion, particularly around the local schools in the area. Works included road widening and realignment, additional service roads, on-street parking, shared paths and cyclist lanes. I’d like to thank everyone for their patience while we completed these works.
Finally, with more hot weather expected over the coming days and weeks, please make sure you look after your health, stay hydrated, keep pets cool, and remember to check on relatives, friends and neighbours who may be more at risk of heat related problems.
You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at Steve.Abboushi@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0437 231 680.
Mayor Cr Steve Abboushi Deputy Mayor Cr Lara Carli
Kathy Majdlik
Brandi Morris
Turner
Ashleigh Vandenberg
John Verdon
Zada
The Melton Gold Cup postponed
By Faith Macale
One of Melton’s biggest events, the Melton Gold Cup, has been postponed.
Plans were awash for the cup which was set to be held on February 14-16, but has been postponed until further notice due to water levels at the Melton Reservoir.
Australia’s fastest Blown Alcohol Displacement (B.A.D.) racing boats compete in a number of races at Melton with about 2500 spectators normally attending each day.
Melbourne Roundabout and Speedboating Club commodore Chris Dynon said they were disappointed having to cancel the event. “It’s too unsafe to run speedboats,” he
said. “For safety reasons, we had to postpone because the water levels are at 35 per cent.
“Anything under 35 per cent is too dangerous to run a race because it becomes too narrow.”
The water levels at Melton Reservoir have dropped below 35 per cent, and with water continuing to be released daily, it is projected that levels will fall below 30 per cent by race weekend.
For now, there are no concrete plans for the rescheduled date of the event other than it is going to go ahead at a later date.
“It all depends on nature now,” Mr Dynon said. “We are hoping to run, hopefully, in May or April, but that’s all depending on rainfall.”
The Melton Gold Cup is the first round of the Nationals Drivers Championship, and so many competitors travel from different places around the country.
Mr Dynon said everyone is disappointed because they all love coming to Melton Reservoir. He said they will hold a barbecue on February 15.
“They’re all hoping, fingers crossed, that we getsomeraintorescheduletheevent,”hesaid.
“We’re going to have a barbecue... We’re going to put that on for the race teams and spectators that still want to show up.
“A lot of people plan for this trip so we’re going to put on a barbecue, and open the bar, and just make a day out of it.”
Forage for knowledge at festival
The Moorabool Mushroom Festival is back for a third year ready to spread its knowledge spores.
Mycologist, and MYCOmmunity coordinator Ema Corro said the festival has many activities in store for all the guests.
“We have a bunch of speakers, there’ll be scientists and practical workshops like how to grow mushrooms and foraging,” she said.
Ms Corro said anyone from adults to scientists to kids will find something interesting in which to take part and learn at the Mushroom Festival.
“The children, learning how to grow mushrooms workshops would probably be pretty fun,“ Ms Corro said.
“We have a lot of kids who are just really interestedinfunghi,andinterestedinscience.“
An important part of the event is teaching people how to forage safely.
“The most important thing is to never consume anything that you’re not 100 per cent sure what it is,” Ms Corro advised.
“It’s a harm minimisation thing. If you teach people what to avoid, and how to do things properly, hopefully they’ll be safe.
“An important thing to look at when foraging is not just what the edible species are, but also the potential poisonous lookalike.”
Toassistbeginnerforagers,MYCOmmunity is working with other mycology groups around Victoria to put together a guide on mushrooms.
School road safety warning
Police are warning motorists to slow down around schools as thousands of students return to class this week for the first term of 2025.
Forty eight pedestrians were killed in Victoria last year, including three children aged 12 years or under who were all at, or commuting to and from school when they were hit by a vehicle.
In an effort to prevent similar tragedies, police will have an increased presence around schools this week to ensure motorists take care as children cross roads.
Motorists are also urged to consider the safety of school crossing supervisors as they step out onto roads to help children cross safely.
Police say speed and distraction are major factors in collisions around schools and that officers will be looking out for motorists not
adhering to reduced speed limits or using mobile devices while driving nearby.
State Highway Patrol Inspector, Nicole Yin said everyone needed to take extra care when travelling in school zones.
“Children are amongst our most vulnerable road users. They’re less developed physically, cognitively and have less experience around traffic,” Inspector Yin said.
“It’s up to all of us to ensure kids are protected.”
Inspector Yin said protecting school kids crossing the road began at home.
“We’re also asking parents, carers and teachers to talk to children about the importance of road safety and teach them to stop, look, listen and think when crossing the road,” she said.
“Slowing down means everyone can get to school and return home safely.”
Hunt for killer
Police have released CCTV footage of a vehicle as part of their investigation into a fatal shooting in Burnside Heights last year.
The footage of a dark grey Ford Ranger was released in hope that someone may have seen the car or have knowledge of its occupants at the time of the shooting.
A 34-year-old Wallan man identified as Jason Filippi was found dead in a white Suzuki Swift in August 2024.
It’s believed the Suzuki Swift, in which Mr Filippi was a passenger, converged with a dark grey Ford RangerintheareaofConnorDriveand Remington Street in Burnside Heights shortly before the shooting.
Police said the occupants of the Suzuki Swift attempted to drive away, however they were pursued by those inside the Ford Ranger.
A firearm was subsequently used and possibly fired from the Ford into the Suzuki.
The Ford Ranger was then driven from the area and is believed to have headed along Taylors Road towards the Kings Park area.
“It’s been a couple of years since we’ve started developing this, so we were actually hoping to launch it at the last festival,” Ms Corro said.
“I’m hoping that we get it out by the festival (2025) so we can officially launch it, but we’re pretty much all volunteer run, so it’s a bit of a struggle to get something like that done.
“It’s getting there though.”
The Moorabool Mushroom Festival is on from Saturday, April 12 to Sunday April 13 at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall.
Details: https://myco.tidyhq.com/ public/schedule/events/68998-mooraboolmushroom-festival-2025Faith Macale
The Suzuki Swift then drove to Tenterfield Drive, where the driver flaggeddownthememberofthepublic.
Police confirmed the Ford Ranger was stolen in Deer Park a couple of weeks before the shooting.
At least two people were believed to be in the Ford Ranger.
Homicide squad inspector Dean Thomas said it is believed Mr Filippi has travelled to Burnside Heights to meet with associates.
“We believe that the associates were in that vehicle (Ford Ranger),” he said.
Mycologist and MYCOmmunity coordinator Ema Corro is excited for the Moorabool Mushroom Festival. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 456200_01
The 2025 Melton Gold Cup is postponed until further notice. (Jacob Pattison)316628_09
Prices drop in Burnside Heights
By Faith Macale
BurnsideHeightsexperiencedthebiggestdrop in median house prices among the suburbs in Melton, according to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria’s (REIV).
The new housing market insight reported on the dwelling prices from October to December.
YPA Melton sales manager Ryan Anders said he was expected a strong result in the coming quarter.
“There’s more people coming to open [inspections], more people inquiring on
properties,” he said. “I would say this quarter shouldn’t be any downturn, and it should be starting some sort of move slightly towards the more positive sign.”
Burnside and Burnside Heights are the top two suburbs with the biggest drop in its median sales price in the Melton area.
According to the REIV , Burnside Heights’ median house price fell by 13.1 per cent, with dropping to $738,000 from $849,000.
Burnside’s prices fell by 10.3 per cent with prices dropping from $794,000 to $712,000.
Meanwhile Eynesbury and Hillside both had
a significant rise in their median house prices.
Eynesbury’s median house price rose 11.4 per cent from $605,000 to $674,000.
“It has to do a lot about affordability,” Mr Anders said.
In Hillside, median house prices rose from $735,500 to $802,500, an 8.8 per cent growth.
Aintree had the slightest rise in its growth with 1.2 per cent, with growth from $730,000 to $738,500.
Meanwhile, Taylors Hill’s median house price had the smallest drop at 0.2 per cent, going from $867,000 to $865,000.
Regional areas in Moorabool like Bacchus
Melton metal music to inspire kids
Heavy metal music sometimes has the stigma of being ‘evil’, but Frankenbok guitarist Azza Bok is making moves to change that.
Frankenbok, a heavy metal band in Melton, is hoping to put together a music festival to inspire young people through music.
Bok said his idea for a local music festival came about when he noticed that a lot of people around the area rocking metal band shirts.
“In one little trip for about an hour (in town), I think I saw two Metallica shirts, two Black Sabbath shirts,and some other metal band shirt,” he said.
“I noticed everything from the guy pushing
the trolleys, to the mothers and fathers just getting around, there seems to be a lot of support for the heavy style of music.”
Growing up, Bok said he felt like couldn’t get into trouble because he was too busy channelling his time and effort in music.
That’s what he wants to bring to the youth of Melton.
“Back in the earlier days, we used to play for Freeza. A guy walked up to me, he was a big-bearded fella covered in tattoos, and he asked me if I remembered him,” he said.
“I said, ‘not really’, and he said he went and saw my band when he was 13 in the Freeza show … and I was really inspired by you.
“He now has his own band and is touring Europe.
“In this town, you just expose kids to live music, sometimes that’s all it takes to light up that fire in you.”
Bok is working on getting together multiple bands to donate their time to perform.
“We’re behind the scenes doing everything to make it happen,” he said.
“We want to make it as safe and as viable as we can.
“There are already so many bands that are interested, and if we can make this one go well,maybewecan makethis aregular thing.”
Faith Macale
Marsh, Darley, Maddingley, Ballan and Gordon all recorded a downturn in median house prices.
Gordon’s median house price fell the most, dropping by 13 per cent from $862,500 to $750,000.
Maddingley recorded 1.3 per cent decrease, with median sale price dropping to $619,500 from $627,500.
Despite the drop in the area, Mr Anders said there are still a lot of people moving in the fringes of Melbourne.
“A lot of people are going to that area, and that drives the prices up quite high,” he said.
Moorabool phone survey
Until mid-March, Moorabool households may receive a call from an independent market research agency, National Field Services.
This is a chance for the community to let the council know their feedback on the its performance as part of a community satisfaction survey.
In2024,council’soverallperformance score reached its lowest level in 10 years, but ranked significantly higher than the large rural group of councils in overall council direction.
Last year’s survey found that sealed roadmaintenance,recreational/sporting facilities and community consultation are the top three priorities for improvement,whilewastemanagement, appearance of public areas, and family support services are its top performing areas.
Moorabool mayor Paul Tatchell said he hoped the performance of the new council will meet community expectation.
“It’s up to us to bring the new councillors up to speed very quickly so they can be very effective councillors in the first year,“ he said.
“It’s a very disappointing result, I think there’s a bit of hangover from COVID in last year’s term.
“I would expect to see some improvement this year.“
The survey has been designed to assess the performance of council across a range of measures to identify ways to provide improvement or more effective service delivery to residents.
Personal details and individual responses are confidential. Only the overall results are shared with council.
Details: 5366 7100
Melton continues to advocate for rail electrification
Melton council is still advocating for the completion of the rail electrification in the Melton train line despite delays to the state government’s Western Rail Plan.
The Western Rail Plan, which was first announced by the state government in 2018 and would involve the electrification of tracks to extend Metro services which was meant to have its planning stages completed by 2023. LeadWest chair and Melton councillor Phillip Zada said the electrification of the rail is one of the top priorities they’d like to be addressed in the coming federal election.
“We’re hoping with electrification that potentially could open doors to new stations,” he said.
He said that they have been in conversation about the electrification of the Melton rail line, but are stuck hoping to receive new
information.
“For example, just in my ward (Mount Atkinson), we need a station at Thornhill Park,” Cr Zada said.
“We also need a station in the Mount AtkinsonEstate,weneedRockbankupgraded.
“This is where electrification can either be to upgrade all the stations that are there now, or new stations will have it, or both.”
A Victorian government spokesperson said four level crossings will be gone for good on the Melton line and a new modern Melton station will open in 2026. They didn’t answer questions about a time frame the electrification of the Melton line.
“We’re getting on with delivering our
record investment in road, rail and buses in Melbourne’s west - making the Melton and Werribee line level crossing free and our $650 million Melton line upgrade will boost capacity on the line by 50 per cent,“ they said.
“The opening of the Metro Tunnel and West Gate Tunnel in 2025 will be a game changer for our growing west, helping people get home sooner, and connecting communities with critical jobs and services.“
The spokesperson said the state government had improved the bus network in Melton, connecting Eynesbury and Weir Views with Melton station to give residents direct transport to the Melton station.
Jaidyn Kennedy
Frankenbok members Azza Bok, Owen Spratling, Adam Glynn, and Tom Rossell are making waves with metal music to inspire kids. (Jay Collier)
Teal takeover for ovarian cancer
Cade Lucas
Thesedaysthecolourtealisusuallyassociated with the political independent movement which won a swag of seats at the last federal election.
Withanotherelectionjustmonthsaway,the link between this particular shade of green and independent MPs such as Monique Ryan, Zoe Daniel and Allegra Spender is likely to only grow stronger.
But during February at least, teal will be associated with another, very different cause.
February is national ovarian cancer awareness month and teal is the colour traditionally associated with this disease just as pink is synonymous with breast cancer.
“It’s a really significant event in our calendar,” said acting national advocacy manager with Ovarian Cancer Australia, Bridget Bradhurst of the national awareness month which aims to educate Australians on the disease, advocate for those impacted by ovarian cancer and elevate their voices as well as raising funds for research.
Ms Bradhurst said these aims were particularly important given the disease remained widely misunderstood.
“It does remain the deadliest of the gynecological cancers,” she said of ovarian cancer, which also has the lowest survival rate ofanywomen’scancerandafiveyearsurvival rate well below the average for all cancers.
Along with it being more deadly than is widely assumed, Ms Bradhurst said another commonmisconceptionaboutovariancancer was that there was an effective early detection test for it.
“People still get confused between cervical cancer and ovarian cancer so sometimes
women mistakenly think that if they’ve kept up with their cervical screening – which is very important to do – that that is also protecting them against ovarian cancer and unfortunatelythatisjustnotthecase.Westill don’t have any effective methods of picking ovarian cancer up early,” she said.
The Victorian Government is making it easier for families to find a three and four-year old kinder learning program they can count on.
The Kinder Tick recognises kinder programs that are led by a qualified teacher.
It highlights kindergartens and long day care centres that offer play-based programs to help children learn and grow, before they start school.
“Anotheroneisthatpeopledon’tunderstand is that some ovarian cancer is hereditary and there is family risk involved,” said Ms Bradhurst, adding that discussing risks with close family and relatives was vital.
“Women’s business hasn’t historically been something that people have been comfortable to discuss but without people reallyunderstandingtheirfamilyhistorythey can’tbegintounderstandtheirownriskofthe disease.”
Even without these misunderstandings, battling ovarian cancer can be tough, with symptoms and warning signs often vague and hard to detect.
Fortunately for those who are diagnosed, Ovarian Cancer Australia has invested in dedicated team of nurses who specialise in treating the disease.
The appropriately titled Teal Support Nurse Program is a free, national telehealth service connecting ovarian cancer sufferers and survivors with trained oncology and gynaecological nurses.
Beginning as a pilot program in 2019, the teal nurses now receive federal funding to provide a free service nationwide.
MsBradhurstsaidthenationwideapproach was why it was a telehealth service.
“We’ve done that deliberately to ensure women don’t fall through the cracks,” she said, noting that similar services were now available for other cancers.
“The cancer landscape changing, it’s no longer one size fits all, but more targeted.”
For more information about ovarian cancer awareness month, visit: https://www. ovariancancer.net.au/get-involved/ovariancancer-awareness-month
For information on the teal support nurse program: https://www.ovariancancer.net.au/ find-support/teal-support-nurse-program
It also identifies services that are approved for Victorian Government funding.
Ovarian Cancer Australia teal support team nurses Di, Fiona and Rosetta. (supplied) 455362_01
Vineyard Road safety calls grow
By Oscar Parry
ADiggersRestcommunitygroupiscontinuing to advocate for duplication of Vineyard Road due to ongoing traffic safety concerns.
As previously reported by Star Weekly, the DREAM Diggers Rest Advocacy group obtained data from the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) which showed there were 54 crashes from the intersection of Obeid Drive and Vineyard Road, to the intersection ofDiggersRest–CoimadaiRoadandVineyard Road,from2018toJune,2023– resultingin71 injuries and 22 serious injuries.
On January 18, the group sent a letter to Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa
Horne, again calling for urgent duplication of 3.5km of the road.
Group member Matt Pearse said that DREAM has been advocating for the road duplication as far back as July 2022.
According to Mr Pearse, the group was recently prompted to reanalyse TAC data followinganewsreportregardingroadtollsper Melbourne suburb, with the report showing there had been 10 road deaths in Diggers Rest between 2010-24.
“Sadly this main busy road has had an [alarmingly] high rate of accidents, many of which have contributed to these statistics with a tragic impact – loss of life in Diggers Rest,” he said.
“Vineyard Road as the gateway to Diggers Rest has remained a focus for our group due to a range of factors, including the delivery of a Coles supermarket and [a] future council-delivered community centre on this road.”
Mr Pearse said that councils, including Hume, can assist with continued advocacy.
“We need to stop politicising infrastructure and instead rely on the data and [precinct structure plans] that ensure the community has the infrastructure that is needed as the community grows,” he said.
A spokesperson for the Department of Transport and Planning said that it will continue to work with council, developers and
Junior school opens in Uganda
Eynesbury’s Tori Hirt has realised her dream of opening a not-for-profit school in Uganda.
Ms Hirt opened the Lotus Junior School on Saturday, January 25, in a celebration attended by students, community members and teachers.
“We had about 300 to 400 people on the school grounds, and we were able to provide them food and celebration with music,” Ms Hirt said.
“The kids receive their school uniforms.
“All of our staff and team got to know the community, and I personally got to know a lot of them too.”
Ms Hirt said the school’s fees are enough to cover the teachers’ salary and provide food and essentials for students.
“We’re not profiting, we’re not taking more money than is needed from the families, it’s covering the bare minimum,” she said.
“We really tried to make the staff wages above board, because our teachers are just doing incredible work.
“As long as the school fees cover that, then we’re happy.”
Ms Hirt said the school was already at capacity, with more parents inquiring to get their kids in the school.
“At the moment we have 210 students at capacity,” Ms Hirt said.
“Since we’ve been open, we’ve had 150 to 200 extra inquiries for enrolments.
“It’s been massive and we’ve had lines coming from our office.
“Eventually, we would really love to have that capacity to grow and develop.”
Faith Macale
other key stakeholders to review the Vineyard Road corridor.
“Potential upgrades to Vineyard Road will be considered as part of future network planning,” the spokesperson said.
Melton Mayor Steve Abboushi said duplication of the said road is part of the future planning but it’s a declared VicRoads corridor.
“Ultimately a decision for the Department of Transport and Planning,” he said.
“Council has shared residents’ concerns with the Victorian Government and requested an urgent investigation into the safety concerns raised by the community in relation to the Vineyard Road corridor.”
Park renewal
Renewal of paths in Maddingley Park is beginning this week.
Works will affect the pathway from the main gate at the corner of Grant and Taverner streets to the Station Street exit, as well as the pathway running from the lawn tennis courts to the children’s playground in the Taverner Street exit.
The works will include replacing the existing spray seal path with concrete matching the existing concrete paths within the park.
“The investments in family oriented spaceslikeMaddingleyParkismaking a big difference,“ Moorabool Mayor Cr Paul Tatchell said.
“We have seen in our parks and garden, people are working really hard to try and encapsulate the awesome spirit we have.”
Access to Maddingley Park will not be restricted apart from the sections of pathways under construction.
The works will be undertaken in stages to minimise disruption, however residents will be affected duringconstructionworkswithminor detours in place.
Works are expected to be complete in six to seven weeks.
Cr Tatchell said that the council is pushing to continue to beautify the area, and bring more people in to visit.
“I think the best way to do that is to make sure that the aesthetics are inviting,“ he said.
“You don’t get two goes at a first impression.”
Ambulance Victoria pleads with people not to leave children in cars
Melton was named as one of the suburbs with the most emergency calls for children left in hot cars, with Ambulance Victoria (AV) reminding the community of the life-threatening risks of these incidents.
This summer, AV paramedics have already responded to more than 230 reports of people locked in cars, highlighting the ongoing danger as temperatures soared across the state.
From December 1, 2023 to November 30, 2024, paramedics were called to a total of 1211 cases.
AV director of regional and clinical operations Steve Doyle said although the data suggests cases have reduced over the last 12 months, the number of call-outs during hot weather is deeply concerning.
“We are urging Victorians to never leave kids or elderly people in parked cars, even on mild days,” Mr Doyle said.
“The temperature inside a vehicle can double and become deadly within minutes … it is particularly dangerous for children to be left inside vehicles, as a child’s body temperature rises three to five times faster
than an adult,” he said.
Of the 1211 call-outs over the past year, paramedics treated 134 patients at the scene, and only one patient required transport to hospital.
“We know that children can often become accidentally locked in cars … we encourage parents and carers to make sure keys are kept with them and to be alert while loading family membersinandoutofvehicles,”MrDoylesaid.
“Accidents happen, and if someone does get locked in a vehicle, call [Triple Zero].”
Triple Zero Victoria executive director of
emergency communications services Michael Fawcett said between December to February each year, the organisation receives an average of more than 480 calls from people reporting children left in hot cars.
“Last summer, [Triple Zero] calls from the suburbs of Pakenham, Melton, Hoppers Crossing, Craigieburn and Dandenong were most common,” Mr Fawcett said.
“Don’t hesitate to call Triple Zero … if you see a child in a car on a warm day because temperatures can become dangerously high very quickly.”
Lotus Junior School Uganda, opened by Eynesbury local Tori Hirt.(Supplied) 456826_03
Dream run to Canada
Melton resident Jayde Young is running fast towards her dream as she represents Australia in a cross country competition in Canada with Sports Travel Australia.
Jayde said she started late in her track and field stint, but to represent the country in her field is one of her biggest goals in life.
“I feel a little pressured, but I think it will be more once I get there and starting at the race,” she said.
“At the moment I am still a bit shocked about it.”
She runs the 400 metres track and field which started to compete in when she was 13 years old.
“There’s been a lot of support from my parents,” Jayde said.
“They’re the ones taking me to training and competitions.
“My coaches have also given me a training plan.
“My team mates were all very happy for me, and they’ve supported me by pushing me more during training.”
Jayde’s parents, Andrew Young and Donna Ross, said they are proud of her.
Jayde needs $10,000 to fund the trip, plus money for lunch and dinners for 20 nights.
Jayde said the opportunity to compete overseas is going to open up many opportunities for her, especially in terms of receiving scholarship grants for university.
“If people could donate, every little bit helps,” she said.
Jayde is set to compete in Canada at the end of June .
Donations: https://tinyurl.com/3f22zypk
Briefs
Collision at Coburns Road
A two-car collision occurred on Coburns Road in Melton. One person has been taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries after the collision at 7.45am on January 28. Police said the accident is still under investigation, and that circumstances are yet to be established.
No gear, no fear
A motorcycle rider, identified as a Melton man in his 20s, was observed by highway patrol as it turned on to Minns Road, Kurunjang from Coburns Road. The rider was wearing only a helmet for protection as he accelerated to over 150km/h as his mobile phone flew out of the pocket of his shorts in the process. Eyewatch Melton reported that the rider was intercepted, and was found to not have a motorcycle licence. The vehicle, a Yamaha R6, was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1,111 and the male will be summonsed to court at a later date.
Jayde Young runs to fulfil her athletic dream. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 456327_01
What to look for in a community when downsizing
At Lifestyle Communities, downsizing isn’t just about moving to a smaller home but about upgrading your lifestyle. With over 20 years of experience in independent living, we know that the right community should give you the freedomtoenjoylife,connectwithlike-minded people, and feel secure in a place that truly feels like home. Whether you’re dreaming of a coastalescapeoravibrantneighbourhoodwith plentyofsocialevents,herearesomekeythings to consider.
Location and Convenience
Where you live sets the tone for your lifestyle. Being close to family and friends makes life moreenjoyable,whileeasyaccesstohealthcare, shopping, and restaurants ensures your day-to-day is hassle-free. Consider whether the area matches your interestswhether that’s beachwalks,parkstrolls,orthebuzzofcitylife.
A Sense of Community
A welcoming, friendly community makes all the difference. Social events like BBQs, trivia nights, and group outings create opportunities toconnect.Havingaccesstoclubsandhobbies, such as gardening, arts and crafts, or fitness classes, adds to the experience. Living among like-minded people fosters a supportive environment where every day feels more fulfilling.
Facilities That Enhance Your Lifestyle
A great community should feel like a holiday every day. A stylish clubhouse provides a place to meet, relax, and celebrate, while pools, gyms, and walking tracks help you stay active. If you have a pet, finding a community with pet-friendly spaces ensures they’ll be as happy as you are.
Peace of Mind
Feeling safe in your home is priceless. A community with secure access offers privacy andsecurity,allowingyoutorelax.Andhaving a next-door neighbour you can rely on when
you’re off enjoying your retirement in the Bahamas? That’s peace of mind you can’t put a price on.
Low-Maintenance Living
Enjoy more free time with a home designed for easy living. Smart, modern layouts maximise
space and comfort, while minimal upkeep means no more worrying about mowing lawns or fixing fences. Take the time to visit, talk to current homeowners, and explore what’s on offer. When you find the perfect balance of security,
socialactivitiesandlifestyleperks,you’llknow, you’ll get that ‘feeling.’
Thinking about downsizing? Discover the vibrant lifestyle waiting for you at one of our Lifestyle Communities today. Call 1300 50 55 60 to speak to a member of our team.
Centres bag award nominations
Taylors Hill Youth and Community Centre, and Hillside Community Centre have started the year strong after being nominated as finalists in the 2024 Neighbourhood House Vic Awards for delivering programs that promote gender equity and wellbeing.
The annual awards recognise and celebrate the valuable work of neighbourhood houses at a state-wide level.
Taylors Hill Youth and Community Centre has been nominated for the Fiona Richardson Award for Gender Equity for its Women in Business and Entrepreneurship project (WIBE), which recognises projects that promote participation, support and
opportunities, and celebrate the diversity of girls and women.
The WIBE project, delivered in partnership with the Multicultural Association of Community Empowerment (MACE), addressed gender inequality amongst Indian women in Melton in the areas of economic empowerment, education, social connection and wellbeing.
More than 500 local women participated in the program, which included workshops, business coaching, and education and training support.
Meanwhile, Hillside Community Centre has been nominated for the Good Health and
Oliver tops list again
Olivermaintainedits11-yearstreakasthemost popular male baby name in Victoria in 2024. For girls, the most popular name last year was Isla.
According to state government data, 389 babies were named Isla last year and 570 were named Oliver.
Sunbury mother Christie Lougoon was one of the parents contributing to the new Olivers inVictoriaandsaidthatsheisgladthatsheand herhusbandJasonsettledonthepopularname after their son was born in March last year.
“When we knew I was pregnant, it was our top contender name that we agreed on,” she said.
She said that the pair liked that Oliver was a traditional-sounding name while still seeming relatively obscure compared to others, with the name “definitely” suiting their newborn.
“We refer to him as Ollie … I can’t see him named as anything else. I love it, it’s gorgeous
… I’m glad we landed there,” she said.
Ms Lougoon also considered the name Oakley and Mr Lougoon suggested the name Harvey.
She said that she is not surprised that Oliver was the top boys’ name last year.
Otherpopularnamesin2024includedNoah and Henry at second and third place for boys and Charlotte and Amelia at second and third for girls.
There were a total of 79,239 births registered in Victoria last year.
According to the state government, Oliver will need to stay on top for another 13 years to break the all-time record for the most popular boys’ name, with that record currently held by John – which was the most popular boys’ name from 1929–51.
Oscar Parry
Well-Being award for its Ageing Artfully Art Project.
The project provided a platform for seniors to come together, reflect upon, and paint their experiencesofageingwellintheircommunity.
Participants engaged in a series of workshops, resulting in the creation of artwork that was displayed in a pop-up exhibition as part of Melton council’s 2024 Seniors Festival celebrations.
Melton mayor Steve Abboushi congratulated the two community centres on their nomination.
Winners of the awards will be announced in March.
Crafty fidget toy
Eachmonth,StephanieMartinezwillsharean exciting craft project designed to inspire and spark creativity.
Stephanie starred in the first season of MakingItonNetwork10,whereshediscovered and ignited her passion for crafting.
Join Stephanie as she explores the endless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materials into something extraordinary. This month, Stephanie is creating a paper fidget toy.
Step-by-step guide
Materials:
Assorted coloured paper/cardstock
Skewer
Straw Bead
Equipment: Scissors
Glue stick
Hot glue gun
Step 1
Cut ten strips of coloured paper and four circles from cardstock.
Step 2
Arrange the paper strips evenly around one cardstock circle and glue them in place. Then, glue another circle on top to secure them.
Step 3
Repeat the previous step with the other ends of the strips, attaching them to the remaining two circles.
Step 4
Carefully insert a wooden skewer through the centre of both circles. Use a hot glue gun to attach a bead at the top for security.
Step 5
Cut a small piece of straw and make several cuts to create tabs. Thread the straw onto the skewer and glue the tabs to the bottom circle.
Sunbury mother Christie Lougoon with her baby Oliver. (Supplied).
Ageing Artfully Project by the Hillside Community Centre is up for Neighbourhood House awards. (Supplied)
Taste of the tropics, the hottest fruit trends for 2025
Move over mangoes, it’s time to go beyond bananas.
Traders at Melbourne’s wholesale fruit and vegetable market have revealed the hottest trends in produce for 2025, with exotic flavours and exciting new fruit varieties set to take Australia by storm.
These unique fruits are bursting onto the local greengrocer’s shelves with their intriguing flavours and nutritional benefits:
Jujube: Also known as the Chinese red date, this small, sweet, and crunchy fruit has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Packed with antioxidants, it’s often enjoyed fresh or dried and added to soups for a touch of sweetness.
Blood Mandarins: Also known as the Early Sicily, this delicious cross between a clementine mandarin and a tarocco blood orange is an easy-to-peel variety that offers a burst of juicy sweetness with a hint of berry flavour.
BlackSapote: Dubbedthe“ChocolatePudding Fruit,”thisintriguingfruitboastsadarkbrown, chocolatey flesh with a creamy, custard-like texture. It’s a healthy and delicious alternative for chocolate mousse or custard.
Canistel: With an egg yolk-like texture, this unique fruit, also known as the egg-fruit, is a perfect addition to milkshakes, ice creams, and smoothies.
Star Apple: This fruit that comes in deep purple and green varieties has a star-shaped pattern formed by its seeds, and offers a sweet, jelly-like texture with hints of tropical fruits and grapes.
Thanh Truong, also known as ‘The Fruit Nerd’, from Melbourne Market store Aus Asia Produce, says the jujube is a fruit that is set to boom in 2025.
“Native to China but now grown in most Australian states, the jujube tastes like a
crunchy apple with intense flavors,” Truong said.
“It’s famous for being dried and used in soups for sweetness and boasts more antioxidants than most other fruits.”
Mahmoud Roumieh from Super Sweet ProducesaystheBlackSapoteishispickofthe fruits set to trend over the year ahead.
Known as the chocolate pudding fruit, this unique superfood is gaining attention for its health benefits and creamy, pudding-like texture.
There are many ways to use it — enjoy it as a treatjustlikepudding,blenditintosmoothies, bake it into cakes, or whip it into mousse.
Roumieh says ripe black sapote blended with coconut cream makes a “delicious diabetes-friendly dessert”.
Look out for fruit that has changed from green to dark brown, and when soft and gooey are in prime eating condition. What they lack in looks at this stage they make up for in taste!
Consumers are encouraged to explore these exciting new fruits and embrace the diversity
of produce available at local independent fruit and vegetable retailers.
“By supporting local greengrocers, you’re not only discovering unique and delicious produce but also contributing to the vibrant community of independent businesses,” says Graham Gee, from The Happy Apple greengrocers.
Shoppers can find their local greengrocer via abetterchoice.com.au, an initiative that supportslocalindependentfruitandvegetable retailers across Australia.
Star apple.
Blood mandarin.
Jujube fruit.
An alternative school in Epping is helping students who have struggled at mainstream schools to re-engage with learning. For some of the students, the move to the Y Community School has been life-saving, as Prealene Khera finds out.
The school saving young lives
Most footy scoreboards towering over school grounds stand at a height of about 20 feet, their LED displays diligently tracking winners and losers.
But when year six student Zane desperately clawed his way to the top of one, he didn’t need the board to illustrate what defeat looked like.
At just 11 years old, he had been told by his teachers that he’d never amount to anything.
Eventually those negligent barrages carried Zane to the edge – nearly two storeys away from death.
“I really didn’t think I was going to get this far in life back then,” Zane said, now aged 15. Zane’s suicide attempt was brought on by his experience at a mainstream school, where according to him, he was incessantly chastised.
“It was very hard,” he said.
“I would feel like they were out to get me … they really wanted me gone.
“Ninety per cent of the time I did blame myself.”
Often after coming home from school, Zane would lock himself in his room with a recurring belief occupying his head.
“I would say to myself that it was all my fault”.
And every time it’d be followed by a chilling afterthought.
“Is it really worth it?”
Towards the end of primary school, Zane was officially diagnosed with autism, ADHD, auditory processing disorder, high anxiety, and oppositional defiant disorder.
Following the diagnosis, a behavioural plan was developed for him to allow the school to better manage Zane’s learning outcomes.
Despite this essential blueprint, his mum Rebecca Hall said, improvements were few and far.
“He pretty much struggled the whole time,” she said.
“They just didn’t have the skills to manage his behaviour or to even educate him which is really sad because every kid deserves an education whether they’ve gotten some diagnosis or not.”
Not only was the school severely unequipped to provide a healthy-learning environment for Zane, Rebecca said its approach aggravated matters.
“We eventually found out they were telling him that he would never get a job,” she said.
“He was branded the naughty kid.
“Every time he would get in trouble at school he would self harm – he used to gouge his leg with a metal ruler.”
Witnessing Zane go through those episodes was extremely gut-wrenching for Rebecca and her husband Shane.
“It was awful and we were walking on eggshells quite because we didn’t want to exacerbate it,” Rebecca said.
“We blamed ourselves a lot.
“Throughout that entire time he was showing signs of depression, and he had become quite withdrawn– it was heart-breaking.”
In the middle of year nine last year, Zane was expelled from school.
“I appealed that decision but the education department told me that the teachers were scared and intimidated by him,” Rebecca said.
“Hearing that broke my heart, my kid wouldn’t hurt a fly.”
When the school closed its doors to Zane, another live-saving one was about to swing open.
Soon after expulsion, at the advice of his psychologist, Rebecca enrolled Zane into the Y Community School in Epping.
It’s a move that has been life-changing for the Halls.
“The Y school has been an absolute godsend,” Rebecca said.
“If my son was still in a mainstream school,
I guarantee he would not be here.”
Schools like the Y make an important contribution in addressing educational disadvantage by serving young people who are disengaged from mainstream education, according to a submission made by the Independent Schools Australia (ISA) into the ‘Review to Inform a Better and Fairer Education System Consultation Paper’.
“Students are often referred from community services, juvenile justice and other schools – both government and non-government,” the report stated.
“[These schools] have developed programs and structures designed to re-engage students in education and prepare them for further training and employment.”
Since 2014, the number of alternative schools has almost doubled and enrolments have almost tripled – as of 2022 there are 96 institutions that cater to students who don’t do well in conventional settings, the submission said.
This philosophy of ensuring no one is left behind is one the Y strongly reinforces: “All
young people want to learn and do well and should have the right to achieve their full potential regardless of circumstances and the barriers that have prevented them engaging fully in education”.
As a new student, Zane carried the weight of being told he wouldn’t do anything worthwhile in his life, into the Y.
Several months later, he went to parliament with his fellow classmates to advocate for increased funding for independent schools.
According to campus principal Sarah Abbott, it’s hard to imagine Zane as anything but capable.
“Just reading his profile, looking at the previous data on him, hearing him talk about what he used to be like and how he used to behave, what he used to do – it’s a completely different person to what we’ve always seen at our school,” she said.
“[Coming here] has meant life or death for Zane.”
Ms Abbott said most of her students have had similar experiences at some point in their lives.
“Every single student has had challenges in a mainstream setting, ” she said.
“We have a number who have come to us with safety plans from their mainstream schools because of attempts of self harm.
“It’s devastating – they’ve only been looking for somewhere where they fit in.”
That feeling of not belonging, “no one should be feeling that way in the first place,” Zane said.
“For me, it finally feels like people are proud of me and that I’m not doing anything wrong.
“Before, I tried to do my best at all times but no one believed that. I’m just like other kids, I want to just be the best I can and live a good life and it feels like I finally can.”
This has been one of Rebecca’s biggest fights — ensuring her son was in a safe and supported environment.
But she never doubted his abilities.
“He was never naughty, he was just misunderstood,” she said.
If you or anyone you know is in need of support, contact Lifeline 13 11 14.
Zane Hall has finally found a school where he feels like he fits in. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 455462_01
The Y community school’s principal Sarah Abbott advocates for the importance of independent schools. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 454190_01
Zane and his mum Rebecca Hall believe if it wasn’t for the Y community school, Zane would’ve continued to struggle. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 455462_07
Fear spreads of Russian invasion
Williamstown amateur historian BARB MCNEILL is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she writes of the panic that spread through Williamstown and surrounding suburbs in the 1850s when residents thought Russian invaders had arrived to pillage the colony.
In1854,Melbourne’smaintopicofconversation was the Crimean War and the brutal atrocities of the Russian Army.
When the conflict began in 1853, Melbourne became very wary of Russians. After all, Victoria had vast goldfields that no enemy could resist plundering, so the authorities askedSydneytosparesometroops,andSydney responded by sending a small force to protect the southern city.
The continuing hostilities in the Crimea convinced Melbourne that the Russians would soon be on their way to commit wholesale pillage of the colony.
Companies of eager volunteers were organised to repel the enemy, fortifications werehastilythrownupalongthecoast,andthe population settled down to await the inevitable invasion.
Shortly after nightfall on 7th September 1854, the unmistakable sound of cannon fire boomed over Hobson’s Bay. It was immediately followed by showers of rockets exploding in the sky, and sharp bursts of artillery fire. All over Melbourne, homes and pubs were rapidly emptied as the cry went up: “The Russians are here!“
Terror-stricken mobsin Port Melbourne pointed to a sinister red glow in the sky.
“Look- they’re burning Williamstown!“
Volunteers scurried to their assembly points while the regulars marched to their posts, determined to defend Melbourne to the last man. Civilians charged around collecting an impressiveassortmentofmuskets,waddiesand pitchforks and by the time the news reached Governor Hotham and Captain Lonsdale, the city was armed to the teeth.
Captain William Lonsdale, formerly of the 4th Regiment, immediately mounted his horse and galloped importantly into Melbourne, which reverberated with rockets and guns blasting away all over the port.
Stopping a fear-crazed civilian who brandished a shovel at him, Lonsdale sharply asked for the latest news.
“Russians,“ the fellow babbled.
“They landed at Williamstown, but the 40th Regiment beat them off. Now they’re coming up the Yarra!“
“They’ve sunk most of our ships,“ panted a passer-by.
“The boys at the Williamstown breakwater have killed hundreds of them.“
EverywhereLonsdalelooked,hesawfrenzied preparations for war. Innkeepers were handing out free grog to the gallant troops on their way to the front.
Prepared for a long siege, women were hauling in food supplies, and several elderly gents were practising duelling with enormous enthusiasm.
Believing that it was only a matter of time before the city was overrun by wild Tartars and sword-waving Cossacks, Lonsdale took his horse at full steam to Port Melbourne.
En route, it struck him that despite the terrible bombardment going on, the Russians were very poor shots indeed. For a city that was being sacked and burned, Melbourne appeared to be remarkably intact.
With a grunt, Lonsdale reined in at the beach of Port Melbourne, where an enormous crowd was demonstrating its willingness to die in defence of the city. They were joined by the 12th Regiment, who, with a squeal of fifes, announced that they, too, were ready to sacrifice their lives. Drums throbbed, bugles blew, and the lads took up a fighting stance with fixed bayonets.
Screams of rage and terror burst out as more cannon fire rocked the beach. Ladies wept and bade farewell to their doomed lovers, and one poor young volunteer, finding the situation
intolerable, disgraced himself by bursting into tears and howling for his mother.
Lonsdale remained on his horse, drumming impatient fingers on the pommel. Straining his eyes in the gloom, he shouted, “Where are the confounded Russians!?“
As the hysteria of the crowd made it clear that no intelligible answer was forthcoming, the captain angrily forced his way through the swarm and ferreted out the habourmaster, who washappilydrinkingruminthecomfortofhis office.
To Lonsdale’s curt query, the fellow laughed his head off. “Russians? Bless you sir, it’s only the Great Britain celebrating her arrival.“
The iron-hulled Great Britain, until 1853 holding the crown as the world’s largest passenger ship, was the most reliable of all emigrant vessels. Her principal engineer was the famous Isambard Brunel;hisassistanttheaptlynamedThomas Guppy.
The ship wasn’t guaranteed unsinkable, but nervous voyagers felt reassured when told about these wonderful men.
Lonsdale’s enquiries revealed that the Great Britain, on her third voyage to Australia and with hundreds of passengers on board, had recently spent three tiresome weeks in quarantine at Portsea, owing to a smallpox scare after a passenger had died.
The dread yellow flag had been hoisted and
the ship docked at the Sanitary Station where isolation was so strict that passengers and crew were not allowed even to post letters to their loved ones.
Everyone was vaccinated. No sympathy whatsoever was shown to the whingers who grumbled about the inconvenience to seven hundred people that had been created by one passenger’s death. Either you submitted to the jab, or you were marooned at Portsea for the restofyourdays.Itisamootpointifanyoftheir descendants were amongst those who groused about the Covid lockdowns in Melbourne...
As soon as it was confirmed that there were no further cases of the terrible disease, the Great Britain thankfully sailed to Melbourne.
On seeing the friendly lights of Hobson’s Bay, her skipper, the amiable Scotsman, Captain John Grey, felt so happy to be back in civilisationthathedecided,withoutfirstasking anyone’s permission, to fire his cannons.
The crews of anchored ships, delighted to relieve the boredom, responded with their own cannons, as well as rifles, rockets and flares.
Blissfully unaware of the terror that reigned on shore, they were enjoying the impromptu display immensely.
Satisfied that no Russians were lurking in Hobsons Bay, Captain Lonsdale rode off to report to Governor Hotham, and the troops packed their rifles and went quietly home.
Barb McNeill in her Williamstown study. (Damjan Janevski) 432421_03
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
Bacchus Marsh Country Women’s Association
Join Bacchus Marsh Country Women’s Association for their first public event of the year. An art sale with complimentary Devonshire Tea held on Wednesday, February 19 from 1 to 3pm for $5 an entry. Bacchus Marsh CWA is based at the Darley Community & Civic Hub, REAR 182 Halletts Way (enter from Wittick St).
RSVP by Monday, February 17 to Karin: karin.wilsonexchange@gmail.com, or 0417 344 968.
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 Night Market
Ignite your senses at the City of Melton’s vibrant Melton Night Market! Across three unforgettable nights on the first Friday of February, March and April from 5pm to 9pm at the Melton Town Centre, immerse yourself in flavours, rhythms and traditions inspired by Asia, Europe and Oceania.
melton.vic.gov.au/Out-n-About/ Events-Activities/Melton-Night-Market
National Sustainability Festival
The Friends of Melton Botanic garden are holding a free guided public walk tour on Sunday, February 9 at 10am at the Melton Botanic Garden as part of their celebration of the National Sustainability Festival. Booking is essential
RSVP: John Bentley, +613 9743 3819 or https://fmbg.tidyhq.com/public/schedule/ events/69055-national-sustainabilityfestival-mbg-guided-tour
Melton South Community Centre
Melton South Community Centre’s term 1 program is available now and open for enrolments, with options for all the family. View the program at meltonsouth.org.au, visit the centre at 41 Exford Road.
9747 8576.
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
Cancer Support Group
MelMarsh Prostate Cancer Support Group is for prostate cancer patients and their
carers and meets on the first Thursday of the month, from 12.30-2pm, at Melton South Community Centre. Attendees are encouraged as members share their journeys through what could be a very traumatic time of their lives. Explanations of medical terminology used in the treatment of this cancer are given in this group.
Grenville, 0412 741 865
Chatty Cafe Melton
Are you feeling lonely, isolated or just wanting to make some new friends? If so, Chatty Cafe is for you. The group meets on Friday mornings at 10am for delicious free coffee from Latin foods and wines at 10 Wallace Square, Melton.
https://www.facebook.com/ groups/352071857283331
Women’s Support Group
Women’s Support Group Melton is for any women who feel they would like to attend a peer support group which is relaxed, friendly and non-judgemental. The group meets weekly at 1pm on Mondays (except for public holidays) at Djerriwarrh Neighbourhood House, 239 Station Road, Melton. The group can discuss most subjects that may be of help
https://ow.ly/QVwJ50Q5g42
Caroline Springs Rotary
The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via Zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall from 7pm.
rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com
Melton Men’s Group
Melton Men’s Group meets every Thursday, from 5-8pm, at Arnolds Creek Children’s and Community Centre, 19 Claret Ash Boulevard, Harkness. Focusing on senior men’s mental and physical wellbeing. Join the group for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including carpet bowls, pool or table tennis.
meltonmensgroup.home.blog
Take weight off naturally
Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Weight Off Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton.
Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739
Parkinson’s support group
The Melton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the second Thursday of the month, 10.30am-12.30pm, at Kurunjang Community Centre, 33-35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. New members and carers are welcome.
Helen, 0409 186 576
Melton Bridge Club
The Melton Bridge Club has weekly social bridge sessions at the Melton Library on Fridays from 10am-noon. Come along to play an exciting, social card game and have loads of fun. Bridge offers the suspense of poker, the cerebral qualities of chess and the excitement of athletic sports, all in a relaxed and social setting. If you like playing cards this is for you.
Rosemary, 0407 894 817
Melton Friendship Group
An over-55’s singles friendship group for social engagements, fun outings, dinners, movies, dancing chats and walks. Enrich your life, no more loneliness or isolation. Nothing but fun and friendships.
0406 493 734
Melton South Knit & Natter
All are welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa.
9747 8576
U3A Melton
U3A Melton offers among its activities a book group, Australian history and a gentle exercise class for those 55 and older who are retired or semi-retired who wish to stay mentally and physically active.
0419 563 016
Melton Combined Probus Club
The Melton Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am.
9746 0271
Community singing group
If you love to sing, come join the Melton Singers. The group rehearses regularly and also performs at aged care facilities. The group is very relaxed and sings songs mainly from the 1960s and 70s. It meets Tuesdays at 10am.
Val, 0418 667 150
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Tayla Funaro, who was a ballkid at this year’s Australian Open. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 455509_01
Artists move into their new Ballan headquarters
Members of the Ballan Artists Collective have been busy the past few weeks settling into their new location on Inglis Street.
Member Miranda Williamson said the groupisecstatictobeinthenewvenue,which they will be opening with an exhibition on Friday, February 7.
“We’re moving stuff in today, and we’ve been renovating for the last four weeks,” she said.
“We’ve got a bit of the garden to do still, but we’re exhibition ready.”
The new exhibit, themed Pop Culture, is the group’s first exhibition in the new location.
“It will be a nice, bright, good mixture of everything,” Ms Williamson said.
“I think a lot of people think of that retro, sort of hippie look as well. It just depends on what generation people are from, and how they interpret it.”
The group’s new place has been the talk of the town, according to Ms Williamson.
“People have been coming by to check our progress constantly,” she said.
“We’re right next to the post office, and many people go past everyday, so it’s had a lot of chatter, and lots of excitement.”
Members expects a little more foot traffic now that their studio is situated on the main road.
“We have the gallery and the shop, as usual,” Ms Williamson said.
“Just in a little cute building with a lot
more character. We’ve got a big garden area that is now easily accessed as well.”
The new premises also has a mural at the back which was a collaboration between the group and members of the community.
The Ballan Artist Creative Pop Culture Exhibition will open on Friday, February 7, starting at 5pm, and will continue until Sunday, March 2.
Faith Macale
Ballan Artist Collective members Michael Rizzo, Miranda Williamson and Tracey Taylor have been busy adding the finishing touches to their new location before its opening. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 455200_03
A display of elegance
Brimbank locals will have the unique opportunity to explore the gracefulness of ‘Ao Dai’ – a traditional Vietnamese dress commonly worn by women – as part of a new exhibition in Sunshine.
The collection curated by the Australian Vietnamese Arts and Culture (AVAC) will allow visitors to discover the beauty of the traditionaloutfitwhileembracingthecultural heritage of Vietnam.
According to AVAC president Mai Nguyen, the ‘Timeless elegance of Women’s Ao Dai Exhibition’ will bring together dresses from
different decades.
This showcase will consist of three collections: Áo Dài V??ng Tri?u (Royal Áo Dài), Áo Dài T? Thân (four piece Áo Dài) and the Áo Dài Tân Th?i (Modern Áo Dài).
“This year marks 50 years of settlement of the Vietnamese community in Australia so we wanted this exhibition to honour the traditional beauty of the Vietnamese national costume,” Ms Nguyen said.
“We wanted to introduce this beauty to the community and to highlight the multiculturalism in Australia and in
particular in Sunshine.”
According to Ms Nguyen, the cultural significanceofthisexhibitioncan’tbeignored.
“Engaging in this experience will foster a profound appreciation for the intricate craftsmanship and skill demonstrated by the artisans behind these exquisite garments,” she said.
“It will contribute to a heightened understandingandrespectfortherichheritage of the traditional Vietnamese apparel.”
The exhibition will be up until March 27 at the Sunshine Art Spaces Window Gallery.
Springfield comes to Newport
Lots of people are fans of The Simpsons and lots of people enjoy pub trivia nights and for those who like both, next TuesdaynightinNewportistheplaceto be.
ASimpsonstrivianightwillbeheldat theNewportSocialClubonFebruary11 hosted by Australia’s self styled ‘experts’ of themed trivia, Grape Vine Events.
“Our business runs more themed trivia than anyone else in the southern hemisphere,” said Grape Vine Events’ ‘Lord Commander of Entertainment’ Kevin Munro.
“We were around years prior to the pandemic, but became even more popular when we streamed trivia for people in lockdown over the better part of 18 months. It’s nice to sometimes be stopped by people on the street who recognise us from that time.”
These days it’s the monthly themed trivia nights at the Newport Social Club on Mason Street that the company is known for, with the coming months to feature Disney, Avatar, The Last Airbender, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Taylor Swift, and Star Wars themed events.
On February 11 though, it’s the Simpson family and various other characters from the long-running cartoon who will be the subject of 40 questions across eight rounds.
“Each round covers a different member of the family and their interactions with the other characters from Springfield,” said Mr Munro.
“The activity itself is punchy in that it runs for 90 minutes, which is just the rightamountoftimetohaveagreattime without overstaying our welcome. We also feature songs from the Simpsons catalogue, and everyone gets right into it,” he said.
For more information and to book, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/ the-simpsons-trivia-newport-tickets1210148519799?aff=oddtdtcreator
Werribee’s ‘best kept secret’ is back for jazz lovers
The Werribee Jazz Club is back and ready to swing better than ever in 2025.
From 2-5pm on Sunday, February 9, The Pearly Shells will usher in a new year of jazz for a club that has been the heart of the scene in Werribee for over 30 years.
President Neville Roe said the club is “Werribee’s best kept secret, but it shouldn’t be.”
Each month, the club meets at Werribee Bowls Club at Churnside Park on Watton Street and features a live act.
Despite the seniority of many of the members, the club is open to anyone with a passion for the genre and live music.
Jazz, with its characteristic improvisation that sprung out of roots music in the American South, covers a wide array styles,
instrumentations and implementation of “it’s hard to put the finger on the pulse” Mr Roe said.
For many of the members, jazz is more than just music they listen to and meet over for three hours on a Sunday.
“It’s something that we grew up with after the war,” Mr Roe said.
“If we didn’t have the direct connection
with jazz ourselves, our parents did.” The price of admission for members is $18 and $22 for non-members, guests are always encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks will be available at moderate prices. Visitorsarewelcomeandthoseinterestedor have other inquiries about the club can give Jenny a call on 0419 558 481.
Jaidyn Kennedy
Mai Nguyen is encouraging everyone to attend the Ao Dai exhibition. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 456182_04
SPORTS QUIZ
1. During his career, 2025 Australian of the Year Neale Daniher played 82 games for which AFL/VFL club?
2. Which women’s rugby sevens team did Australia defeat to win the Australian leg of the 2024–25 World Rugby SVNS series?
3. By what name is Brazilian former
4. Which men’s rugby sevens team defeated Australia to win the Australian leg of the 2024–25 World Rugby SVNS series?
5. British racing driver Lewis Hamilton competes for which Formula One racing team?
6. Which country in Southeast Asia is hosting the 2025 ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup?
Which former Australian tennis professional was most recently part of Jannik Sinner’s coaching team?
What sport has long been considered ‘America’s pastime’?
Which AFL/ VFL club did John Cahill coach from 1997–1998?
10. Gilbert provides the regulation brand game ball for which sport?
11. What freak incident caused Monica Seles to leave tennis for over two years?
12. Which Ecuadorian professional road racing cyclist won the 2025 Tour Down Under?
13. In soccer slang, what is a ‘worldie’?
14. Australian Luke Plapp is known for which sport?
15. What innocuous item caused a delay in the quarterfinal between Alexander Zverev and Tommy Paul in the 2025 Australian Open?
16. In a viral moment at the 2024 Olympics, on what was the first ever all-Black gymnastics podium, Simone Biles and Jordan Chiles were photographed bowing to which new gymnastics champion?
17. Matildas defender Alanna Kennedy recently signed with which NWSL club?
18. And which US actress was a founding owner of that club?
19. AFLW player Zimmie Farquharson plays for which team?
20. Sam Mitchell played 22 games for which other AFL club after he was traded by Hawthorn in 2016?
21. ‘The Sharks’ are the Australian men’s team in which sport?
22. Who is the current captain of the Sydney Swans?
23. How many black squares are on a chessboard?
24. Jessica Campbell is the first ever female coach in which sporting league?
25. And which team does she coach?
26. An entirely animated, almost real-time feed of the Australian Open was streamed on which platform throughout the competition?
27. In which year did Don Bradman play his last Test for Australia?
28. Simon Whitlock plays which sport for Australia?
29. How many times has Kelly Slater been crowned the WSL champion?
30. The Braves are the MLB team of which US city?
Simone Biles
Jannik Sinner
To
ACROSS
1 Skin on the head (5)
4 Commonsensical (9)
9 Roof’s projecting edges (5)
10 Power cells (9)
11 Collusive syndicate (6)
12 Nullify (8)
14 Informal bulletin (10)
15 Capture (3)
17 Melody (3)
19 Sorcerers (10)
23 Soon (8)
24 Thief (6)
26 Large powerful sea monster (9)
27 Sun-dried brick (5)
28 Speaks to (9)
29 Finished (5)
DOWN
1 Offensive odour (6)
2 Unfavourable (7)
3 Own (7)
4 A precious stone (4)
5 Exercises (10)
6 Mistakenly (2,5)
7 Instruction (7)
8 Plastic unit containing audio or visual tape (8)
13 Linen (10)
16 Spanish headscarf (8)
18 Distant (7)
19 Hub for military planes (7)
20 Quarantine (7)
21 Forbidden (7)
22 Ally (6)
25 Singles (4)
1 Which singer had a UK No.1 hit single with WhentheGoing GetsTough,theToughGet Going?
2 In cricket, in which year did South Australia first win the Sheffield Shield?
3 Which James Bond actor starred in the 1988 film Taffin?
4 Ops, or Opis, was the ancient Roman goddess of
7 In which European city was Erwin Schrödinger born in 1887?
8 Who did Betty White (pictured) play in The Golden Girls?
9 What Russian alcoholic drink is made from cereals and stale bread?
10 Shall We Tell the President? was written by which famous author?
Happy return for Genesis G70
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
The gift that keeps on giving: due to an ‘unscheduledincident’onarecenttestcarIwas left with a gap on my normally crowded ‘dance card’.
No sweat, said the Australian importer, why take a reprise with the Genesis G70?
Even though I had spent time with the Sports Luxury Sedan earlier in the year, when the upgraded G70 had left a generally positive impression, a second bite of the luxury ‘fruit’ was eagerly accepted.
TheG70,whichstartedasamid-sizedluxury sedan with a young and sophisticated design in 2017, was reborn in 2023 as a luxury sports sedan with a differentiated design identity and superior driving manners.
The MY24 upgrade consists of two variants, a Sports Luxury Sedan and a Shooting brake (station wagon) debuting Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Genesis Connected Services and over-the-air software updates. Ride and handling also make use of new-generation Electronic Control Suspension.
The Shooting Brake is powered by a 2-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine; the Sports Luxury Sedan by a 3.3-litre V6 turbo. Both are mated with an eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission feeding the rear wheels.
Available from $80,065 to $86,914 for the 2025 range of models in wagon and sedan body types, all G70s come with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, with private usage, complimentary servicing for the first five years or 50,000km, roadside assist (10 years if serviced by Genesis) and concierge and courtesy vehicle service for five years.
STYLING
The Genesis G70 Sports Luxury Sedan has performance-linked head-turning looks with traditional sports sedan styling mated with the latest technology. Upgrades include new badges, new wheel design and additional exterior colours.
Up front the new emblem features what is described as a guilloche pattern, roughly translated, a type of repetitive decoration symbolising eternity in ancient Assyrian architecture, would you believe.
Newly designed 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, shod with Michelin pilot Sport 4 tyres, are the perfect complement to a red Brembo brake package. The updated look is topped off by a selection of 13 colours, including three matte finishes, and new gloss finishes Vatna Gray and Kawah Blue.
INTERIOR
Refined upgrades stamp the cabin with a true sports luxury character. For example, Nappa leatherseatsinFogGrey–heatedandventilated upfront,heatedintherear–andleather16-way adjustable driver’s seat and door trim and console are joined by a heated electronic tilt and telescopic adjustable steering wheel. And not forgettingsports-stylealloypedals.
Hey, but hang on there. The rear seat is no place for long legs. In fact, depending on the positioning of the driver and front passenger seats the space speaks 2+2. Toe room fares no better, with front seats too close to the floor for tootsies.
Head and shoulder space are very much mid-size sedan scale. A restricted loading aperture leaves the boot a dark cave-like 330 litres with seat backs up. A temporary spare wheel fits under the floor.
INFOTAINMENT
There are three separate screens to keep an eye on – one central infotainment screen mounted on top of the dashboard, which runs the car’s smartphone mirroring, voice recognition, satellite navigation, digital radio and driver settings, A touchscreen in the stack below, plus separate buttons and switches for controls to air-conditioning, while a digital driver display is situated behind the steering wheel.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are wired, not wireless as in many of the G70’s European rivals.
TherearetwoUSBpointsforrearpassengers, while all can take advantage of digital radio DAB+ through a 15-speaker Lexicon premium audio system.
ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS
G70 the Sports Luxury Sedan is powered by a 3.3-litre V6 turbocharged petrol engine mated withaneight-speedtorqueconverterautomatic transmissiondrivingtherearwheels.Premium unleaded (95 RON) has it stumping up 247kW at6000rpmand510Nmfrom1300to4500revs.
SAFETY
The Genesis G70 Sports Luxury Sedan scored a five-star ANCAP rating from 2018 testing. With 10 airbags scattered around the cabin, there is a long list of active safety features.
These include autonomous emergency braking with cyclist / pedestrian awareness and junction turning function, adaptive cruise control, blind spot warning, lane assistance, road sign recognition, driver attention warning, rear cross-traffic alert, 360-degree DRIVING
The low stance of the car and major seat bolstering present a skinny slot for getting in and out of the front seats. However, the driver cansoonsettleinthankstoa16-wayadjustable seat with memory function.
Start-upisaccompaniedbythecharacteristic V6 engine note, which is reassuring in these days of electric vehicle stealth. Combined fuel consumption claimed by the maker, 10.4 litres per 100 kilometres, translated on test to 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres in built-up area crawling and 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres on a motorway cruise.
The sedan’s ride and handling have been refined with the introduction of a new generation Electronic Control Suspension whichreducesdampinglag,increaseddamping force, improved control logic and a wider damping force window, both softer and harder.
TheGenesisG70SportsLuxurySedanglided through the city and suburbs in the default comfort mode. Cruising the highway is where the G70 was happiest.
Switching to Sport unleashed a completely different drive. The suspension stiffened, the ride took on a roguish character and the power pedal reacted sharply to the tiniest touch.Itwasasifthecarwasurgingthedriver to ‘give it a go’. Sport+ mode to another time
and place.
Back in the built-up environment, the Intelligent Speed Limit Assist tells the driver of the current speed limit based on navigation data and road sign recognition. In addition, the system is able to help the driver to change speedduringSmartCruiseControlorManual Speed Limit Assist.
The blind-spot camera that appears in the driver display every time the indicators are activated are a distraction I could take or leave, while the over-intrusive beeping and
the tyre pressure monitor comes up with more numbers than a Keno card. However, the head-up display with a digital speedometer, live traffic sign recognition, and turn-by-turn navigation assistance gets my vote every time. In the unlikely case of the addition of a tow ball, the G70 Sports Luxury Sedan can tow up to 1200kg braked, or 750kg unbraked.
SUMMARY
The Genesis G70 Sports Luxury Sedan really does stand out from the pack, especially in its upgrade state.
The Genesis G70 Sports Luxury Sedan really does stand out from the pack. (Supplied)
Cricketers weren’t just battling against each other but also the heat on Saturday as the race to finals heats up. Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting some of the action.
Summer bowls up extreme heat
Westmeadows’ Pathum De Mel. 456799_03
Seabrook’s Jordan Lynch. 456805_01
Kingsville’s Hammad Khan. 456806_05
Bundoora’s Narinder Sharma. 456802_01
St Andrews-Footscray’s Sohail Hussain. 456805_11
The Colin Cass Cup. 456806_12
Craigieburn watches on. 456799_13
Kingsville’s Rahmatullah Khwaja. 456806_02
Craigieburn’s Samuel Laffan. 456799_06
Bundoora United. 456802_13
Georgies are ready to attack the new season
A season of consolidating, Caroling Springs George Cross is focused on success in the Victorian Premier League.
The Georgies finished seventh last season in their first season in the VPL1 competition after two straight promotions.
Finding some consistency in the back part of the season, Georgies coach Eric Vassiliadis said they were hoping to build on that.
“I think we learned a lot from the first season in the VPL1,” he said. “We had a slow start to the season before sorting things out in the back end of the season last year.
“It was a good indication and it was important for us to work and build on in the pre-season.”
Vassiliadis said the biggest improvement they needed was in the front third of the pitch after struggling to score at times.
He said they were confident in the group that they had up forward.
“We’ve worked hard as a playing group and coaching group and as individuals,” he said.
“We’ve attracted some new players and retainedsomeothersandhopefullyhavesome success.”
Vassiliadis said they had retained about 12
players from last year, not wanting to make changes of the sake of making changes.
He said they were really happy with the squad.
“We’ve improved on areas that we lacked and we have built some genuine depth to cover injuries and suspensions.
“We’re making sure everyone is on their toes. We’ve got a good core group that has been together for a while.”
Among the new signings are Josh Whitley, who has been part of two championships. He was in the United Kingdom last season.
Vassiliadis said one of the most exciting things was that they’ve been able to add players from their youth league set up.
“We’ve added three guys from the youth league side who will play key roles in the squad,” he said.
Deeble winner crowned
By Tara Murray
Don Deeble winner Jesse Trembath is set for plenty of time on the greens before he heads to college later this year.
Trembath on Wednesday night was named the 2024 Don Deeble winner, beating out nine other young sporting stars.
He received $5000 as the winner, with joint runner-ups AFLW draftee Sierra Grieves and runner Lucy Cleveland receiving $2500 each.
Speaking after he was crowned the winner, Trembath said it was pretty incredible.
“I’m just super grateful,” he said. “I didn’t know what to really expect.
“I had my hopes up and it was a good night and it couldn’t have ended even better. The money will be really helpful, golf is a pretty expensive sport.
“There’s so much travel and that will go straight to that.”
Trembath was the March nominee for the Deeble award.
The Point Cook resident was a talented cricketer and footballer before deciding to focus on golf when he was just four.
“Dad likes to take credit for it,” he said. “I think it was more my grandmother, she loved to take me and my brother out when were younger and it went from there., “I just loved it, and that was really it. It’s really fun, you have the love for it and you really enjoy it, it doesn’t feel like hard work every day.”
Playing on local courses at Kooringal and Sanctuary Lakes, Trembath continued his improvement and was soon identified by Golf Victoria.
He holds the current course record at Kooringal Golf Club shooting a 63 in April last year, while he was a 2023 state team member, Golf Victoria high performance team and a Callaway “Next Program” representative.
He has won the Victorian Junior Amateur and Victorian Junior Masters in 2023 and in 2024 he was one of only two juniors to qualify for the Victorian Open.
After finishing year 12, Trembath has committed to Iowa State University and will head to America in August.
He said it was an easy decision to go to college instead of going professional.
“No one really went to college 10-15 years ago, all the golfers stayed in Australia,” he said. “Over the last five years everyone has gone and there’s so much more opportunity over there.
“All the best players are over there, all the money is over there. Once I saw some people were going over there, I wanted to do.”
Trembath said his dad, Craig Trembath, was probably his biggest role model. Craig won Commonwealth Games gold in shooting.
Jesse said there two sports have a lot of similarities.
“Him being a shooter he was in a very static sport as well, like gold, an individual sport,” he
said. “There’s so much that I’ve learned from himasmuchasIdon’twanttolistentohimtoo much, I’m getting better at taking his advice.”
Trembath said that he would spend the next few months getting his game ready for college. He is currently working on changing his swing after identifying things he wasn’t happy with.
“I didn’t want to get there and have to be figuring things out with my swing,” he said.
“We have one eye on the changes with home grown players and pathways and we’ve been working hard with the technical director and junior coaches to have that pathway.”
The Georgies season gets underway on Saturday night against Langwarrin.
Vassiliadis said they were looking forward to getting the season underway.
He said they have some big expectations this season.
“We tried to consolidate last year and it was the first time we’ve done that as a club,” he said.
“We’d worked hard for five years.
“Our president Mark [Sultana] wants to play for promotion and we want to be doing that this year.”
Tara Murray
Sports shorts
Ballarat NL
Bacchus Marsh has welcomed back former captain Kaila Saker for the Ballarat Netball League season.The club said Saker is a well-known and highly respected player within the club, and her return is met with great enthusiasm from both teammates and supporters alike. “A strong midcourt player and a versatile attacker, Kaila brings a wealth of experience and skill that will undoubtedly lift our team’s performance in the upcoming season,” the Cobras said. “Her strategic understanding of the game, combined with her agility and determination on the court, makes her an invaluable asset to our squad.”
GDCA
Harkness further cemented its spot in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Jensen Shield top four. Facing Sunbury United on Saturday, Harkness made 8-201 from its overs with Gurinder Singh Grewal top scoring with 48. United fell well short, finishing 7-123. Harkness sits third on the ladder. In the Johnstone Shield, Eynesbury lost to East Sunbury while Aintree lost to Kilmore.
VTCA
Sydenham-Hillside is through to the next round of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition. The Storm finished its pool matches with a big win Sunbury. The Storm made 9-130 from its overs with Dylan Knight top scoring. The Roar had a terrible start with the bat and was in trouble at 5-8. It crumbled to be all out for 64. Darcy Edwards took 4-11 for the Storm. The Storm finished the pool rounds undefeated, finishing ahead of St Albans. Burnside Springs United ended its campaign with a final over loss to Grand United.
A-League
“It’s the priority the next few months before I leave so when I’m there, I’m ready to go.”
The Don Deeble Sports Star Award is sponsored by the Yarraville Club Cricket Club, Strathmore Community Bank, the Deer Park Club, Ascot Vale Sports and Trophies and Star Weekly Newspapers.
If you would like to nominate a monthly winner, emailing swrsportsclub@gmail.com or 0408 556 631.
Rising Western United Jordan Lauton has signed on for another two seasons after a stunning start to his A-League Men career. Lauton, who came through the club’s academy program, signed his first senior contract this season after making his debut the season before.
Jesse Trembath. (Tara Murray)
Caroline Springs George Cross. (Ljubica Vrankovic)
Lion cubs fall short in Craig Shield grand final
Melton fell just short of claiming its first J G Craig Shield in more than 20 years on Sunday, losing the grand final to Brighton.
The Lions went through the pool rounds of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association under-15 competition undefeated.
After winning both their finals, they moved into the grand final on Sunday, which was played in hot conditions.
Lions coach Joel Mitchener said before the match that he thought it would be a bit of a mental battle in the heat.
Brighton made 5-163 off its 35 overs after being sent in by the Lions.
Jackson Matthews took two wickets for the Lions, while the rest were single wicket takers.
The Lions got off to a solid run chase and were 1-42. The loss of 3-4 halted the Lions momentum
They managed to push on, but ran out of overs being bowled out on the final ball for 150.
Mahib Khan Sahibzada Mir, who came in at number nine, top scored with 24.
Speaking before the grand final, Mitchener said he was proud of what they had achieved.
The last time the Lions won the event was 25 years ago, with now senior men’s coach Damian Costigan part of that team.
“It is an awesome achievement,” Michener said. “They all can’t wait for it. “When we started the process we thought
Track record smashed
By Lachlan Mitchell
The harness racing world may have just witnessed one of the greatest battles in the sport’s modern history, as Swayzee claimed the 2025 A.G. Hunter Cup for NSW, edging out younger brother Leap To Fame and shattering the track record in the process.
The Jason Grimson-trained seven-year-old was sent out a $5 chance after drawing wide on the second row. Main danger and younger brother Leap To Fame was confined to being buried deep on the pegs after drawing eight.
The Cam Hart driven two-time New Zealand Cup winner was able to ease his way to the top after the Mark Jones trained Tact Mcleod was the early front-runner
Swayzee quickly found the top as they passed the post for the first time while the Grant Dixon trained and driven Leap To Fame was forced to sit midfield.
Dixon moved on the winner of over threemillion-dollars and found himself in the running line with no cover sitting third with
Swayzee still leading proceedings.
As the pair turned for home it was a neck and neck battle with Leap To Fame looming up alongside the Cam Hart driven charge.
The 2024 Victoria Cup winner was able to hang on and add a A.G Hunter Cup to his already glowing resume. The Cran and Chriss Dalgety-trained Republican Party rounded out the placings.
The emphatic win also broke the A.G Hunter Cup track record set in 2019 by Tango Tara (1:53.2) with Swayzee setting Melton Entertainment Park alight in a mile rate of 1.51.9.
Master trainer Jason Grimson was still in awe as he claimed his thirteenth Group 1 victory at just 31 years of age.
“That was pretty cool to watch, seeing all those good horses go to the line like that, I am just glad he stuck his head out when he did, butitisjustanincredibletime,”Grimsonsaid.
Meanwhile, Watts Up Partytime has stunned punters twice in one night, winning both the heats and the final of the Group 1
we had a strong side, but it’s tough to make the grand final.
“We didn’t plan for it.”
Mitchener said the group was rapt to have made the final and entered it with plenty of confidence.
He said captain Arjun Itankar had been the standout for the side. He was later named the west group player of the tournament.
“He has been amazing,” he said. “He’s in the top two leading run scorers and has opened the batting for us.
“He’s led the way and is a good player.”
For the Lions, whose senior program has been struggling a bit, seeing the younger players step up is encouraging.
Many of them are already part of the Lions senior program.
“They’ve still got a bit of work in them, but seeing them at a senior level they are then leaders in the junior side,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Lions first XI has nearly conceded first innings points to Ormond on day one.
The Lions were bowled out for 123, with Ormond finishing the day at 4-115.
Tara Murray
Bacchus Marsh on top
Bacchus Marsh further cemented its spot at the top of the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 2, section 1. Havingcomeoffastrongperformance the week before, Bacchus Marsh backed it up with a dominant performance against Altona on Saturday.
On the road Bacchus Marsh won 93 (18)-68 (0) as well as just about ending Altona’s finals hopes.
Phil Minniti’s rink had a 24-22 win, MatthewYoung’srinkwon22-13,Glenn Sargent’s rink won 26-21 and Simon Cornock’s rink won 21-12.
The win has Bacchus sitting nine points clear of Werribee heading into the second last round.
Keilor and Rosamond, which make up the top four, still have chances to finish in the top two.
Bacchus Marsh faces Rosamond this Saturday in the second last round.
Melton 2 had an 83 (14)-75 (4) against Yarraville Footscray. Despite the win, Melton remains bottom.
In division 1, section 1, Melton had a tough task against top side Glenroy.
The Mustangs pushed Glenroy all the way, but fell short,76 (14)-69 (4).
The winning skips for Melton were Todd Trewarne, who won 21-15, and Oscar Jones, who won 16-13.
$250,000 Great Southern Star at massive odds.
The Andy Gath-trained squaregaiter took out the heat in at an opening quote of $26 before a powerful performance to outrun Inter Dominion winner The Locomotive at $81 to give the master trainer his fifth Great Southern Star victory.
“Not in our wildest dreams did we think he would win it,” Gath said.
“Some of the others were expected, I saw him three fence and saw him travelling and thought we would be really unlucky, but he is just a short course specialist – he is a lovely horse.
Driver Kate Gath couldn’t believe her luck winning the Group 1 feature for the trotters on Sportsbet A.G. Hunter Cup night.
“What an outstanding effort by the little fella and I didn’t see this happening tonight,” Kate Gath said.
The short priced The Locomotive finished second while the Marg and Paddy Lee-prepared Keayang Chucky rounded out the placings.
The Mustangs remain in seventh position with two rounds remaining. They sit 12 points behind YarravilleFootscrayintheracetoavoidthesecond relegation spot.
Meanwhile in the Ballarat Highlands Bowls Region Highlands division 1, Diggers Rest suffered a big loss.
Romsey was too strong for Diggers Rest, winning 75 (16)- 43 (0).
Simon Cornock. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 448428_09
Melton’s Craig Shield side. (Supplied)
Swayzee. (Stuart McCormick)
Emmerson Hitch steps up at Devils as co-coach
Emmerson Hitch is taking the next step in her football journey, stepping up as co-coach of Darley’s Ballarat Football League women’s side.
Hitch has been a playing assistant coach in recent years but this season will join Brett Faulkhead as co-coaches.
Hitch said she was excited for the opportunity.
“It’s pretty surreal,” she said. “I’m just 24 and I’m on the same level as Brett as we go for a potential three-peat.
“It’s a big honour and I’m excited to do it.”
Hitchsaidshehadalreadybeentakingsome of the running of training sessions and taken on a lot of leadership both on and off field.
She said her and Faulkhead already had a good relationship they were hoping to build on.
“We’re always on the same page,” she said.
Emmerson Hitch. (Ljubica Vrankovic)_420267_01
“We have regular meetings.”
Hitch has been coaching for four years, having coached under-18s and under-16s.
This year she’s a forwards coach at the Western Jets girls program.
It’s a program she came through herself.
“I have a bit of experience coaching and senior experience with older girls,” she said. “With the Jets I’m seeing the other side. I had the experience as a player, so I know what they are going through.
“Iwanttopreparethemforthatexperience.”
The Devils head into another season confident with the list that they have. Having won the last two premierships, they have a number of players wanting to join the club.
“We’ve had a core group for the last two-three years which is really positive and it’s an environment we can create success from,” Hitch said.
“We’ve had a lot of players who want to come to play for Darley. “
Hitch said the biggest signing of the off season was former Devil Tamara Henry.
Henry, who is aligned with Collingwood’s Victorian Football League Women’s side,
Centrals’ strong outing
By Tara Murray
Melton Centrals produced one of its best batting performances of the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Russell Pollock Shield season on Saturday.
Centrals have produced some more competitive matches this season but at times has been let down by its batting.
On Saturday, it showed some fighting resolve against Moonee Ponds as it was bowled out for 217 in the final over.
Coach Warren Haffenden said it was pleasing to see the side put together an innings like that.
“It was really good to put a competitive total on the board,” he said. “We posted an extra 50 to 60 then what we were looking at early.
“The best thing for us was those partnerships through the middle. Even though it was 20 somethings, we haven’t had that.”
Steve Robertson was the key at the top of the order, making 73. Haffenden said he had
a really strong season with the bat.
Haffenden said the innings was a step in the right direction and showed what they had been working on.
“We’ve taken a bit of a step which this season was about,” he said. “We’ve struggled the last few years.
“We’re seeing progress and we are getting there. We’ve been a bit more competitive.
“We’ve won one game… we’ve lost one by five runs and one by 20 odd. It’s something we haven’t done in the last few years.”
Haffenden said they would take plenty of confidence into week two of the match. He said they were hoping to finish the season off strongly in this match and the rest of the games.
“I’ve been happy with our bowling and fielding this season,” he said. “We had an off day against Pascoe Vale, but 99 per cent of the time it’s been good.
“We just haven’t been making enough runs. Hopefully it all comes together this week.”
Haffenden said things across the club were going well, with the rest of their men’s sides all
played for the Devils before she was drafted by Adelaide.
She didn’t play an AFL game.
Hitch said they had added a couple of players from Melton as well, while some of their young talent was coming through the ranks.
“We’ve got a lot of young girls knocking on the door,” she said. “We’ve signed two young girls.
“Charli Parsons-Jones is just 15 and she’s a talent.
“Evie Johnson is 16. They are up with us and another girl Evie Fitzgerald, who is 17, from the Western Jets has stepped up as well.
“We have some awesome juniors coming up and young ones in the under-16s. It’s good for our depth in the future.”
Tara Murray
Lions on top
Darley is on top after day one of its match with Buninyong while Bacchus MarshisintroubleagainstWendouree in the Ballarat Cricket Association.
With finals spots on the line, every match is vital in the run home.
On Saturday, Buninyong won the toss and decided to bat in warm conditions at Darley Park against the Lions.
It was tough going for the Bunnies with the Lions able to bowl them out within 56 overs.
The Bunnies made 156.
Dilan Chandima took four wickets for the Lions, while Madushanka Ekanayaka took three as he opened the bowling.
The Lions’ run chase didn’t get off to the best start, losing two early wickets. Theywereabletosteadyandfinished the day at 3-63.
Sajith Dissanayaka will resume on 34 not out, with Chandima falling for 18 on the final ball of the day.
It’s a must win for the Lions who sit in seventh spot, eight points outside the top four.
It was a tougher day for the Bulls against Wendouree.
The second placed Bulls decided to bat at CE Brown Reserve.
The Bulls never got going as they were bowled out for 101 in the 52 over.
Will Lalor top scored with 24 with Jayden White-Powell the only other batter to reach 20.
in finals contention as the season gets to the pointy end.
“The vibe has always been good when I’ve been at the club,” he said. “We’ve got lots of juniors and these kids are starting to come into the seniors.
“It’s good to see the progress.”
Meanwhile, Burnside Springs United has already claimed first inning points against Wyndham Vale.
Burnsidemadejust101withOscarHodgetts top scoring with 21.
Despite the low total, it was enough with Wyndham Vale bowled out for 48 in the 40th over.
Shohan Rangika took 5-15 for Burnside and Mathew Sanders took four wickets.
In the Evans-Clark Shield, Melton South Royals need 225 against Bellbridge.
Praveen De Silva took five wickets for the Royals.
Scores for Sydenham-Hillside’s senior division match with Deer Park and Caroline Springs’ Roy Picone Shield game with East Keilor are unavailable at time of deadline.
Wendouree, another one of the sides just outside the top four trying to sneak in, finished the day at 1-77.
Sam Crea has the wicket for the Bulls.
Darley’s Madushanka Ekanayaka. (Shawn Smits) 205415_22
Steve Robertson. (Damjan Janevski). 203266_02
