Star Weekly - Northern - 18th February 2025

Colourful fun in Whittlesea

Colouring South Morang’s Whittlesea Civic Centre on Sunday, February 23, will be the ninth annual colour carnival, to celebrate the community of Whittlesea. Vibrant in character and in colour, the community-led carnival will host lively performances, dances from local schools, a wide variety of food and engaging activities.

Organiser Nishta Goel said the celebration is open to everyone, of any age or cultural background.

The carnival is used to celebrate the festival of Holi, commemorating the beginning of Spring in India. Characterised by colour, dancing and fun, the festival symbolises love, new life and the triumph of good over evil.

“The festival is a true reflection of the City of Whittlesea’s cultural diversity” Ms Goel said.

“The Whittlesea Colour Carnival has become a community favourite because it brings people from all walks of life together to celebrate in the most joyous way – playing with colour,” Ms Goel said. The event is free. Details and compulsory registration: https://tinyurl. com/yaw5vctu

Call to remove mayor

By Laura Michell

A group representing Epping North and Wollert residents is demanding Whittlesea’s councillors immediately remove Aidan McLindon as mayor and dismiss him from council following his decision to contest the Werribee state by-election.

The Residents of Epping North and Wollert Community Association (RENW) has written to councillors, council’s chief executive Craig Lloyd and municipal monitors Peita Duncan and Jude Munro, asking them to act “swiftly and decisively” to remove Cr McLindon as mayor.

The association hopes the letter will be tabled at the February 18 council meeting. Cr McLindon contested the February 8 by-election in Werribee and took personal leave from council from January 23February 8. He had been Whittlesea mayor

for nine weeks when he made the decision to run for the Werribee state seat.

In the letter, seen by StarWeekly , RENW said there was “profound frustration and anger” regarding Cr McLindon’s conduct.

“Many members of our community group have reached out to us to explain their immense frustration regarding Mr McLindon’s actions,” the letter stated.

“As a group of unpaid volunteers who have worked tirelessly for years to do their best to support the wider City of Whittlesea community, we feel deeply betrayed by Mr McLindon who has so quickly taken his new position of councillor and mayor for granted.

“His actions amount to a betrayal of the voters who believed in his promised commitment to serve our community.”

RENW has demanded that council puts forward a no confidence vote and remove Cr McLindon as mayor, remove him from

council, and publicly condemn his actions.

It also wants Cr McLindon to repay all funds received from ratepayers, including paid leave, during the period in which he contested the by-election.

“It is [council’s] collective responsibility to restore public trust by taking decisive action,” the letter stated.

RENW president Paul Seidl said residents felt they had been lied to by Cr McLindon, who during a candidates’ forum run by the association pledged to “do the basics brilliantly.”

He said Cr McLindon had not reached out to RENW since being elected as the Kirrip Ward councillor, despite the association representing the residents of his ward.

“Doing this nine weeks in was not acceptable. So many people felt taken for a ride,” he said.

“We feel he is not a representative of our

community … we all know this is to prop up his own political agenda.”

Mr Seidl said RENW sent its letter to council on Tuesday, February 4, the same day council held an unscheduled, confidential meeting to discuss potential Model Councillor Code of Conduct breaches by Cr McLindon.

According to a leaked copy of the agenda for that meeting, seen by StarWeekly , the other 10 councillors – Daniela Zinni, Blair Colwell, Deb Gunn, Christine Stow, David Lenberg, Lawrie Cox, Nic Brooks, Martin Taylor, Stevan Kozmevski and Jarrod Lappin – planned to apply for Cr McLindon to face internalarbitrationovertheallegedbreaches.

A petition has also been started, calling for Cr McLindon to resign as mayor. It has been signed by more than 1100 people and will be tabled at the February 18 council meeting. Cr McLindon was contacted for comment.

Dancers Erika, 10, Isabella, 11 and Charlie, 11, with carnival host Paul Seidl. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 455473_11

Median strip mowing concerns

By Oscar Parry

Hume council will investigate the option of resuming council-led maintenance of median strip and roundabout vegetation on state-managed arterial roads.

During the council’s February 10 meeting, councillor Naim Kurt called for council officers to investigate the state-led maintenance schedule of arterial roads in Hume as compared to the council’s schedule for its own roads and to analyse the costing for council to take on the responsibility of managing state road median strips.

Cr Kurt said prior to 2019, council maintained vegetation on median strips and roundabouts on arterial roads under a minor maintenance agreement with VicRoads, which he said delivered a “higher standard of maintenance than is currently provided” by the Department of Transport and Planning’s (DTP) private contractor.

“Poor state of roadside maintenance on median strips and roundabouts … has been a consistent source of frustration and complaints from the Hume community,” Cr Kurt said.

HesaidtheagreementwasendedinOctober

2022 by the DTP.

“It’s now gone to … three cuts per year to a height of 250 millimetres compared to Hume’s standard monthly cutting schedule of once every four weeks,” he said.

“Particularly in the lead up to late last year …Ithought…theremightbeablackpanther that might jump out from some of the grass that was overgrown in different parts of our municipality.”

Cr Kurt said if council was to resume the agreement, it would cost an estimated $1.15 million annually.

On the topic of maintaining median

Connecting with others through art

The Craigieburn art show is exhibiting the work of a group that is connecting the community through art.

A part of the annual Craigieburn Festival, the show runs from the February 28 until March 2.

The Craigieburn Art Group, founded 35 years ago, encourages adult artists to develop their skills, create meaningful time to work on their art and builds a community of likeminded and encouraging individuals. Gursewak Singh, member of the group since 2022, has found the group to be an inspiration, pushing him to create his own

exhibit which showed at the local library last year.

“Itisawonderfulcommunityofartistsand I’ve made a lot of good friends and people who are really supportive of the works I’ve created.Theyhavetaughtmealotabouttheir techniques but also the entire ecosystem,” he said.

The art show will exhibit works in a variety of mediums including paint, photography, mosaics, stone art, jewellery, woodwork, printmaking sculpture and mixed medias.

“There are extremely detailed pencil drawings of horses and mosaic works that

are repurposing old material—putting a new perspective on the things that we see everyday as trash—that’s what a lot of art is about,“ Singh said.

Singh’s work includes paintings inspired by the landscapes from his recent trip to Europe and others symbolic of his identity and his sense of diaspora.

The event is held at the Hume Global Learning Centre in Craigieburn and opens at 7pm on February 28 and closes at 4pm on March 2. Entry is free.

strip vegetation, ecologist and native bee researcher Clancy Lester said that low-lying prostrateplantscouldbealower-maintenance alternative to grass and has noticed that the public is increasingly “shifting away from manicured lawns and towards … creating habitat for insects and pollinators.”

Indigenous native flowering species that he said could be used for this purpose include Cut-leaf Daisies, Common Everlasting, Running Postman, Native Violet, and Blue Bells.

TheDepartmentofTransportandPlanning was contacted for comment.

Flag protest court date

ABroadmeadowsmanhasbeenissued a court summons for allegedly waving a Hizballah flag through the streets of Melbourne’s CBD during a protest last year.

On February 6, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) served the 34-year-old with a notice for the offenceofpublicdisplayofaprohibited terrorist organisation.

The offence carries a maximum penalty of 12 months’ imprisonment.

TheAFPwillallegethemanwaveda Hizballah flag in the Melbourne CBD on September 29.

He was summoned to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on March 19.

Assistant Commissioner Stephen Nutt said the AFP would not tolerate crimes that undermined Australia’s security or way of life.

“Investigators have reviewed more than 100 hours of CCTV footage, police body worn camera footage and vision taken at the Melbourne protest and will continue exploring every avenue to identify those involved.,“ he said.

In December last year, the AFP charged a separate Melbourne man, 36,forallegedlydisplayingaHizballah flag during the same protest.

InJanuary2024,theCommonwealth introduced legislation prohibiting the public display or trade in prohibited Nazi symbols and symbols used by prohibited terrorist organisations. The Hizballah flag is a prohibited symbol under the legislation.

In December 2021, the Commonwealth designated Hizballah as a terrorist organisation.

Historic dry-stone walls rebuilt at three sites in Wollert

Historic dry-stone walls that were demolished to make way for new lanes on Epping Road have been rebuilt at three sites in Wollert.

The Major Roads Project Victoria (MRPV) Epping Road upgrade team called in specially-trained experts to rebuilt the walls using traditional methods.

The painstaking process involved fitting together the variously sized stones to rebuild thewallswithoutusingwetbindingmaterials such as grout or mortar.

Eachofthewallingspecialistsinvolvedwas qualified for the job with an international certificate of craftsmanship in dry-stone walling.

MRPV program director Dipal Sorathia said the project team were pleased to have been able to rebuild the walls.

“Conserving local heritage for generations to come is an important part of our work as we deliver safer, more-reliable travel with the Epping Road upgrade,” he said.

Dry-stone walling is regarded as one of the oldest trades in the world.

Victoria’s dry-stone walls are considered European heritage because they reflect aspects of the agricultural, economic and social life at the time of settlement.

The walls began appearing in Australia

One of the rebuilt walls is 90-metres long and is on the north side of Lehmanns Road, while the other two, 60m and 20m long, are on the south side of Pine Park Drive.

following the arrival of European migrants, who were typically from countries with long histories of dry-stone walling, such as England, Scotland, Ireland and Germany.

Dry-stone walls were commonly used in the past to form land allotment boundaries or to contain livestock, reducing the need for shepherds on pastoral estates.

Dating back to the 1840s, the builders of dry-stone walls in the Wollert area used weathered basalt found on the ground’s surface.

Along with providing building material, the use of the surface stones helped clear paddocks to increase livestock feed growth, made land more arable for planting, and conserved timber for fencing.

Dry-stone wallers at work in Wollert. (Supplied)

Craigieburn Art Group member Gursewak Singh. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 457444_01

Kaija Du

Card raids ‘demoralising’

ThieveshaveraidedaThomastowncollectables

store twice in the past few months, crimes fuelled the owner suspects by the lucrative black market trade in Pokemon cards.

In the latest incident two thieves broke into Blacklist Cards and Collectables on Prime Street on Monday February 3 about 4.30am. They forced their way into the store using a crowbar to jemmy open a roller door.

The offenders smashed a display cabinet and forced entry to a storage area, stealing a large quantity of trading cards before fleeing the scene.

Store owner Umit Berkant, who only has been operating the business for nine months, said more than $20,000 worth of items were stolen.

“We’ve obviously come back full circle … and this time, there was damage done to the items inside. They smashed the glass cabinet, theyrippeddownthecarddisplaywall…and they broke into the roller door,” he said.

Mr Berkant said being hit twice was “demoralising“.

“This isn’t just something for fun at the end of the day, this is like our livelihoods, and I’m tryingtomakeafornamemyself,andwehave a very positive community here,” he said.

“A lot of lovely people come in and try to support us, and it’s obviously disheartening knowing that this stuff happens, and you really can’t do much about it.”

Police confirmed to Star Weekly that they had charged a man following a burglary at a Prime Street business in Thomastown on November 30. They allege the man gained access to a trading card store by smashing a glass panel in the early hours of the morning. The man allegedly stole a quantity of trading cards before fleeing.

Umit Berkant’s Thomastown store has been targetted by thieves twice in recent month. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 458071_05

A 27-year-old Tarneit man was charged with burglary, theft and criminal damage. He was bailed to appear before the Heidelberg Magistrates’ Court on March 6. Anyone who has CCTV, dashcam footage or any other information that could assist

investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Arrests over car thefts

Six people have been arrested by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) in relation to stealing motor vehicles from parking lots at Melbourne Airport over the past six months – with the incidents promoting calls for increased security by regularusersofthespace.

Earlier this year, frequent flyer Steven Ross booked a spot in the airport’s value car park zone before heading to New Zealandforacoupleofdays.

Prior to his flight, Mr Ross said he had heard rumours of vehicle-related thefts intheareaandasaprecautionattacheda steeringwheellocktodeteranypotential thieves.

“About three days into my trip, I got a callfrommywifeandshesaidthefederal police had phoned her and told her that somebody had attempted to steal the car,”MrRosssaid.

“They smashed one of the windows, and then probably realised the lock was on.”

A Melbourne Airport spokesperson said they were aware of some incidents andhadappropriatesystemsinplace.

“As with other car park operators, we workcloselywithVictoriaPolicetodeter thievesandbringperpetratorstojustice,” thespokespersonsaid.

“Melbourne Airport already has thousands of CCTV cameras, which are monitored 24 hours a day. We also have 24-hour security patrols, boom gates at everycarparkexitandapermanentAFP presence.

“Ifyouwanttostealacarhere,youwill becaught.“

Hume to explore new rate system

By Laura Michell

Hume council will explore the introduction of a differential rating system which would chargeadifferentrateinthedollartodifferent property classes.

Council currently uses a flat rate system which applies the same rate in the dollar to every property across the municipality.

The introduction of a differential rating system would enable council to vary the rate in the dollar charged to different classes of

property, such as residential, commercial or industrial.Thesystemwouldnotalterthetotal rates raised by council, which is determined by the state government’s rate cap.

At council’s Monday, February 10 meeting, councillor Sam Misho asked council officers to provide options and scenarios on how differentialratingmayimpactthedistribution orallocationofratesacrossthevariousclasses of properties within Hume.

He said differential rates were already used by a number of councils across Victoria,

addingthatcouncillorshadplannedtoexplore the issue during the last term of council but had to postpone their plans as a result of the pandemic.

“We use a blanket approach when applying rates over four classes of property based on capital improved value,” Cr Misho said.

“A residential property is not an income producing property compared with a commercial or industrial property.

“This report seeks to explore whether a differential rating system is more appropriate

Count down to St Mary’s school fair

The community fair at St Mary of the Cross Mackillop Catholic Parish Primary School is just weeks away, bringing together the school communityforadayofcelebration.

From 10am to 3pm, the day will be filled to the brim with entertainment, food, and thrilling carnival rides, offering something for everyone, while raising funds for improving projectsattheschool.

Live performances and entertainment will be a standout feature, with a variety of acts including local dancers, a martial arts demonstration, a Bollywood dance group and

a DJ from one of the school families spinning thedeckstokeeptheenergyhighallday.

StMaryoftheCrossMackillopCommunity and family engagement leader Kristie Hocking said community was the heart of everything at theschool.

“Relationships are the heart of everything that we do here at the school. We can’t teach children, we can’t work with families if we don’thaverelationshipswiththem,”shesaid.

“When we put on events like this that allow people to come, with their families and friends, and extended families, [including]

grandparents,itmakesthoseconnectionswhen wegobackintotheclassroommucheasier.

“You’vegotsomethingelsetotalkwithabout those children, and then with the families as well, and it’s great for the families to see the teachers in a more relaxed environment, out havingfun,andthestudentsloveitaswell.”

The event is on March 22, at 47 Farmhouse Boulevard,Epping.

There will be no ATM on-site, so be sure to bringcashandcardforpurchases.

Please email smcm.epping.fair@gmail.com ifinterestedinbeingamarketstallholder.

in our municipality.”

Cr Naim Kurt said he was keen for council to explore a differential system, noting that developers and and big businesses pay the same rate in the dollar as the owners of a one-bedroom townhouse in Broadmeadows.

“Ratesareasystemoftaxationandasalevel of government, it is our job to soften the hard edges of any rates system,” he said.

Council officers will prepare a report for councillors on the issue as part of council’s 2026-27 budget process.

Boost for care in the north

Initial designs for the new Northern Hospital Ambulatory Care Centre have been released.

Health Infrastructure Minister Melissa Horne announced the project will make up stage one of a massive $813 million hospital redevelopment – with Kane Constructions named as builder ahead of works beginning in early 2025.

The four-storey standalone building will become a central hub and permanent home for outpatient ambulatory health services, clinical and outpatient health services, as well as administration.

The redevelopment’s second stage will then see the delivery of a new emergency department and inpatient unit tower, with both stages set to create up to 2200 jobs during construction.

Set to be located on Cooper Street, the new emergency department will include a mental health and alcohol and other drugs hub, dedicated acute behaviour treatment space, paediatric treatment zone and new inpatient beds.

Once complete, it will increase the number of treatment spaces to almost 200 and support an extra 30,000 emergency patients every year.

Ms Horne said the massive redevelopment of the Northern Hospital is a significant investment that will future proof healthcare in Melbourne’s growing northern suburbs.

Thomastown Bronwyn Halfpenny, Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio and Yan Yean MP Lauren Kathage all said the redevelopment will ensure families in Melbourne’s north will received the best health care.

New vision for a thriving, connected community in Hume

The 2045 Hume Community Vision for “a thriving community with a strong sense of belonging” has been adopted by council.

The 2021 vision was reconsidered as Covid-19 and a growing population shifted what the community may have valued, a report to the February 10 council meeting stated.

A panel of representatives from the communityalsocreatedmorespecificthemes for the city’s vision including equality, equity, and inclusion and connection,

being a well connected and well serviced, environmentally centred and a responsible and well governed city.

Councillor Karen Sherry said the vision represented community desires to find value beyond economic prosperity and into a sense of belonging, inclusion and purpose.

“They want to be thriving environmentally and socially,” she said.

An expression of interest process received 160 responses, of which 47 members were chosen that aligned with the demographics

of Hume. The vision, made for and by community, seeks to inform council plans for the next four years and continue to guide decisions beyond that, Cr Sherry said.

“[The panel representatives] expressed how important this vision was to them and they placed a lot of energy and effort into developing it,” Cr Sherry said.

Cr Carly Moore noted that, in her experience, the interest and feedback from community in something council has put forward is unprecedented.

Growth in population which has already occurred and is forecasted to almost double inthenext20years,isaparticularimportant change that the vision had to consider, according to Cr Moore.

“Our city is definitely barrelling down a highway right in front of us and [rising populations] is definitely something to think about” mayor Jarrod Bell said.

Kaija Du

Milio, 10, Samuel, 9, Scarlett, 10, Salvatore, 9, Sofia, 11, Luca, 10, Tommy, 8, Liana, 6, Romeo, 7, Jacob, 8 and Scarlett, 6, are counting down the days to the fair. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 457625_01

Kangan healthcare training boost

By Kaija Du

A world-class health centre designed to train Victorians in a modern facility that simulates the real-world health environments has opened in Broadmeadows.

The centre, part of the Kangan TAFE Institute, will be used to teach nursing, community services, aged care, childcare, mentalhealth,disability,pathology,andallied health.

With the space for 1400 students, the

program will also provide 13 of the 80 free TAFE courses offered by the Victorian government.

The centre was opened on Thursday Februray 13 with Premier Jacinta Allan touring the site and meeting with students.

Kangan Institute chief executive Sally Curtain said the world-class facility was deliveredontimeandonbudget,andwillgive studentstheskills,experience,andconfidence to thrive in the health and care industries.

The centre includes state-of-the-art

laboratories, simulation suites and spaces for one-on-one training.

“Our Centre of Excellence is a launching pad for rewarding and in-demand careers. With strong partnerships across industries, communities, and universities, we’re not just keeping up with today’s needs—we’re helping shape a healthier, stronger future for Melbourne’s northern corridor and beyond,“ she said.

Board chair Sharan Burrow said Kangan Institute is ready to empower the next

generationofhealthandcareworkersthrough the new Health and Community Centre of Excellence.

The Broadmeadows centre is open and currently taking applications for 2025 enrolments for 18 courses.

Existing Kangan Institute courses in areas like mental health, disability, justice and early childhood education and community services will now be delivered from the Centre of Excellence.

Details: https://tinyurl.com/h58vxvep

Indoor cricket centre means play all year round

An indoor cricket centre has opened in Greenvale,openingtheopportunityforcricket tobeplayedallyearround.

The Hume Indoor Cricket Centre opened at the Greenvale Recreation Centre on Friday afteranumberofyearsofplanning.

ThenewfacilityIncludesacrickethubwhich incorporates a six-lane indoor cricket training centre which will be complemented by an adjoiningpavilionandadditionalsportsfield.

The hub will also provide an administrative base for Cricket Victoria’s north-west regional staff.

Community sports minister Ros Spence, who helped open the centre, said it is hoped thatthenewcentrewouldgivetheopportunity to the community for individuals and teams to hone their skills in one of Australia’s favourite sports.

“We’re giving the local cricket community quality, modern facilities they can be proud of – and that foster the next generation of Victoriancricketstars,”shesaid.

milliontoconstructthecentreand$9.4million wasinvestedbyHumecouncil.

FINDYOURTRUENORTH ATCALLISTOPLACE

Just14kmsnorthoftheCBD,CallistoPlace offersluxurylivingforthosewholongforan unencumberedlife.

Thisvibrantandgrowingover55’scommunity isforpeoplewholovelifeandarereadyto jumpintoajoyful,activelifestyle.

Everyapartmentisdesignedtocapturenatural lightandoffersexceptionalqualityindesign, layout,andfittings.

Withgracioussharedspaces,astate-of-theartwellnesscentreandarangeofoptionsfor socialconnection,you’llwonderwhyyouwaited tofindyoutruenorthatCallistoPlace!

The state government committed $1.5

Greenvale MP Iwan Walters said that, “this is a major boost for our booming cricket communitywhonowhaveworldclassfacilities

to enjoy playing the sport they love, closer to home.”

Kaija Du

Hume Indoor Cricket Centre is opened. (Supplied)

A win for Merrifield

Twelve community projects have been awarded grants as part of the 2024 Merrifield Community Partnerships Program.

The developers of Merrifield have been giving away grants ranging from $500, and up to $10,000 across four categories including culture, health, and connected and smart since 2017.

This year the Nepalese Community Mickleham, STEM Catalyst, Divine Performing Arts Academy and Indo Australian Welfare Club were some of the first-time recipients.

Nepalese Community Mickleham vice president Nirajan Bhatta said he was keen to introduce a Teej Festival to the Merrifield community.

“Teej Festival is one of the most significant cultural festivals for Nepalese Hindu women and we are so pleased to be able to create awareness and celebrate this festival in

Merrifield,” he said

The Bush Bus, Gaayip Yagila Primary School, Mickleham Secondary College, Kidding Around Australia, and Seed Six were also successful grant applicants.

Merrifield resident Sidra Fahim was awarded grants to support four initiatives – music playgroup, community playgroup, women’s social club and Merrifield kids holiday program.

“I’m deeply committed to be giving something back to the Merrifield community and I am so thrilled to be receiving funding again this year from the Merrifield Community Partnerships Program,” she said.

“Thefourprogramswillbuildevenstronger community connections and new bonds and the latest addition, Merrifield Kids Holiday Program, will provide an enriching and supportive environment during the school holidays.”

Briefs

Roxburgh Park road rage

Two men have been arrested following a road rage incident where the victim was allegedly assaulted by a group of motorcyclists on February 6. It is understood a man was travelling north on Sydney Road in a black Volkswagen Golf sedan when a group of motorcyclists drove erratically in front of him about 10.30pm. There was allegedly an altercation between the driver and the riders at the intersection of Sydney Road. The riders allegedly assaulted the 46-year-old Donnybrook man, who was taken to hospital with non-lifethreatening injuries. A 17-year-old Greenvale teen and a 19-year-old Altona Meadows man were arrested after police executed search warrants last week. The pair have since been released, and are expected to be charged on summons with dangerous driving offences.

Business awards

Nominations are open for the City of Whittlesea Business Awards which celebrate the excellent talent and innovation of the business community. The awards provide a platform for entrepreneurs, innovators, and hardworking operators across the municipality and are open exclusively for members of the City of Whittlesea Business Network.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT

Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Lauren Menezes, Raj Khania, Nirajan Bhatta, Deepak Tiwari,, Sukhdev Singh Dhaliwal, and Satnam Singh Chahal. (Pam Kiriakidis)

Downsizers drive demand at eco-friendly community

The first release of sustainable homes in the latest land lease community in Beveridge is attractingstronginterestfromlocaldownsizers looking for green, low maintenance homes and lifestyle benefits, according to developer Ingenia Lifestyle.

The community is the first in Australia to achieve a Green Star Homes Designed assessment for all designs across the 262 home community from the Green Building Council of Australia. Green Star Homes are cheaper to run, more comfortable to live in and good for theplanet,andcansaveresidentsover$2,000a yearonhouseholdbillscomparedtoanoriginal 30 year old gas powered home.

The masterplan features 262 architecturally designedhomesandresort-stylefacilitiesspread over 10 hectares. Priced from $475,000**, the homes come with a host of sustainable features such as solar power, hot water heat pump, high performance insulation, all electric appliances, thermally efficient windows, and heat recovery ventilation.

Ingenia CEO John Carfi said: “We’re pioneering a new era of sustainable land lease communities that enhances resident quality of life while lowering running costs. With people livinglonger,retirementdollarsneedtostretch further.We’reproudtoofferretireeshomesthat represent the future of affordable, sustainable retirement living right here in Beveridge.”

Retirees Jon and Cheryl Abbott said the home’s green features were a big attraction.

“We currently live in a 43 year old house so moving into a home that uses less energy and is more environmentally friendly is a big tick for us.

“Like everyone, we’re not immune to cost of living pressures, so bill savings will be a significant benefit stemming from our decision.”

The community clubhouse will feature

a lounge area, bar and billiard tables, gold-class-style cinema, indoor heated pool, gym and yoga studio, library, hair salon, croquet and pickleball courts, barbecue area, community garden and workshop.

Construction of the homes has commenced, with the first residents expected to move in mid-2025.

Land lease communities are an increasingly popular option for senior Australians seeking affordablehomes,premiumfacilitiesandsocial activities, with more than 130,000 retirees living in land lease communities around the

country.***

The Ingenia land lease model means the buyer owns the house but leases the land it is on via a weekly site rental fee. There are no exit fees, deferred management fees (DMF) or stamp duty and buyers get to keep any capital gains.

For more information on Ingenia Lifestyle Springside in Beveridge go to https:// ingenialifestyle.com.au/springside-beveridge or visit the sales office at Craigieburn Central Shopping Centre, opposite Australia Post.

*Compared to an original 30 year old gas home based on Kinesis ‘Green Star Home Sustainability Analysis Report,’ Oct 2024. Visit Ingenialifestyle.com.au/Beveridge for more information.

**Price is based on owning your home and leasing the land and is correct at the time of printing and subject to change without notice. 29.1.25

***Australian Land Lease Communities – An Overview, September 2024, Chadwick Property Valuers.

Ingenia CEO John Carfi with retirees Jon and Cheryl Abbott.

Call to end tanning trend

By Oscar Parry

This January marked the 10-year anniversary sincethebanningofcommercialsolariumbeds acrossAustralia.

Despite this ban, Cancer Council Victoria reports that a large number of Australians are still taking part in dangerous tanning trends –with these trends affecting young Australians, includingyoungwomen.

According to the Cancer Council, skin cancer has maintained its place as the state’s fifth most common cancer, with more than 3000 Victorians diagnosed with melanoma in 2023.

Cancer Council Victoria SunSmart program head Emma Glassenbury said the organisation is aware of harmful social media trends emerging recently, such as glamorising tan lines.

“We’re seeing harmful beauty norms glamorisingtanningandweknowthisimpacts women,”MsGlassenburysaid.

“We’re deeply concerned to see trends on social media emerging with young people showingofftanlinesandusingtheUVindexas a tanning tool rather than a warning … people should use the UV index to know when they shouldbeusingsunprotection.

“These trends are really fuelling harmful attitudes towards sun tanning, particularly among young women, and increasing lifetime riskofskincancer.”

MsGlassenburysaidmostyoungAustralians believe their risk of getting skin cancer is low and almost one in three young Australians believethatit’ssafetosuntanattheirage.

“Young people are really susceptible to the social media messages, and it’s irresponsible for these platforms to be hosting misleading and dangerous content glamorising tanning – which is actually increasing skin cancerrisk,”shesaid.

Cancer Council Australia started a federal government-backed campaign to counteract harmful social media trends around sun tanningbehaviours,titledEndTheTrend.

“This campaign is targeting young Australians and really promoting through social media platforms and … influencers to end tanning trends … highlighting that UV damage can occur just in 15 minutes to your skin,”MsGlassenburysaid.

Along with UV exposure increasing your risk of skin cancer, she said that it is also the cause of 80 per cent of premature ageing, causingwrinklesandsunspots.

Ms Glassenbury said a tan is the result of melanin production after skin is exposed to UV radiation, which is produced by the body as a way of protecting the skin, and is a sign of skindamage.

“Wereallywantpeopletoembracetheirown naturalskintone…andtotouseallfiveforms of sun protection whenever the [UV index rating]isthreeandabove,”shesaid.

Ms Glassenbury said it is important to use all five forms of sun protection, which are wearing skin-protective clothing, using PF50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing a broad-brimmed hat, seeking shade, and wearingsunglasses.

Mental health ward re-opens

Northern Health re-opened its mental health division’s ward 7, making it the third largest mental health unit in Victoria.

The ward, established when the hospital opened in 1998, will now be a 25-bed inpatient unit for women aged 18 to 65, who require hospital-based care due to acute deterioration of current mental illness, or acute exacerbation of chronic mental illness that cannot be managedinthecommunity.Itwillbethe first women’s mental health unit in the northerncatchmentarea.

The unit’s workforce includes 59 staff frommanydisciplinesincludingnursing, social work, occupational therapy, consultant psychiatry, psychology, adminandlivedexperience.

Northern Health mental health executive director Belinda Scott said the unit was a major stepping stone, moving towardsafutureindeliveringspecialised andholisticcare.

“HereatNorthernHospitalEpping,we have 80 adult mental health beds – this is the largest number of public mental health beds on a single site in Victoria,” shesaid.

“This creates an opportunity to do things differently, to move towards specialist care not just for women but for all consumers using Northern Health Mental Health services. This marks the firststepintransformingcare.

“The Royal Commission asked us to think about what transformation looks like, and I think as a team, we’re really focusedontransforminghealthcare.”

Cancer Council Victoria is reminding people to use all five forms of sun protection when the UV index rating is three and above. (Supplied).

Cost relief the right prescription

By Holly Hales, AAP

Government-subsidised access to hormone therapy for menopausal women will make a “meaningful difference“ to the lives of countless sufferers, experts say.

Three menopausal hormone therapiesEstrogel Pro, Estrogel and Prometrium - will becomeavailablethroughthePharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from March 1.

Currently, more than 100,000 Australian women are paying privately for the medicines that cost around $650 per year.

Under the PBS, eligible patients will pay $7.70 each month if they’re pension and concession card holders or $31.60 if they’re general patients.

Endocrinology lead at Jeans Hailes Clinic, Sonia Davison, said the subsidy would make “a meaningful difference” to countless women’s lives.

“For far too long, menopausal women have had their experiences dismissed and faced barriers to accessing affordable treatment options,” she said.

One in four women experience severe or prolonged menopausal symptoms that affect their quality of life and may require treatment.

“While menopause is a normal and natural part of ageing, it’s important that women realise that the symptoms affecting their quality of life are very treatable,” Dr Davison said. “Too often, menopause is dismissed as simply hot flushes or moodiness. The reality isthat,forsomewomen,thedramaticdropin hormone levels can cause a raft of symptoms that may last for years.”

Menopause, which typically sets in around theageof51andcanleadtohotflushes,night sweats, sleep deprivation, muscle and joint pain,moodchangesandincreasedirritability,

brain fog, and decreased concentration and executive function.

Symptomsoftenlastforaroundsevenyears.

The Australian Medical Association highlighted the funding for long-term contraceptives as particularly significant, and the expansion of clinics to encompass menopause and perimenopause.

“This announcement is a major investment inwomen’shealthandwillprovidesignificant relief for women across Australia,” its president Danielle McMullen said.

Pharmacy Guild of Australia national president Trent Twomey said the initiative

What’s on

Join us for Clean up Australia day

Register your local clean up site today or join one of many planned sites to help make our environment cleaner and greener for everyone.

City of Whittlesea is inviting the community to participate in Clean up Australia day. You can sign up as an individual, group, business or school. It’s a great way to keep our local spaces looking great for everyone to enjoy.

For more information on local clean up sites and to register visit www.cleanup.org.au/cleanupaustraliaday

When: Sunday, 2 March

was a significant step to address gaps in women’s health services.

AssistantHealthMinisterandformernurse Ged Kearney said it would “shift the dial on an entrenched culture of medical misogyny”.

Otherpromisesina$573.3millionpackage will be implemented after the upcoming election if Labor secures another term.

They include more pelvic pain clinics and greater Medicare rebates for both menopausehealthassessmentsandlong-term contraceptive insertion, which can cost hundreds of dollars.

The 2024 parliamentary inquiry into

menopause recommended newer forms of therapies be subsidised through the PBS to bolster supply and “ensure appropriate access and lowered costs for all women who need it”.

The opposition has welcomed the move, with health spokeswoman Anne Ruston describing the new funding as an extension of the former coalition government’s work on women’s health.

Senator Ruston confirmed the coalition would match the funding package but remainedconcernedithad“neverbeenharder or more expensive” for women in Australia to access primary care.

PRACC 2025 performance season is here

Check out the spectacular line-up of must-see shows at Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre (PRACC) in South Morang.

The upcoming season will feature a variety of performances: from shows by some of Australia’s favourite singers, such as Silvie Paladino, Glenn Starr, and Rachel Beck to family-friendly comedy from the Trash Test Dummies, there’s something for everyone.

For more information and to secure your seats visit www.pracc.com.au

MY PLACE

Eden Park resident and Whittlesea Historical Society (WHS) president Barbara Miller is dedicated to her community, with a passion for preserving Whittlesea’s rich history. Pam Kiriakidis spoke with Barbara about her relationship with the town, and her role at WHS.

What is your connection to Whittlesea?

My family moved to the Whittlesea township on Decimal Currency Day in 1966. The whole family was involved in the WDTA tennis competition in the district for many years during the 1960s and early 1970s. I still live in the district, in Eden Park.

What do you like about where you live?

I like the country feel of Whittlesea, with the convenienceofthecitycloseby.Imeetpeople I know when I’m in town, and the locals are friendly. Whittlesea offers many services, a good range of shops, and opportunities for joining interesting community groups.

Tell us about your role as president at the Whittlesea Historical Society?

I took on the role of president in 2023. I see my role as guiding the society to be steadily growing and financially viable, to encourage a program of interesting activities, and to actively advocate for the preservation of our local history. This year WHS celebrates 50 years, so we are already planning towards a special celebration in September.

What do you enjoy most about being president?

I enjoy working with a great team of people who are passionate about local history and willing to work hard to make information available to others. Making connections with other community groups in the area is of great importance to me, both to make the WHS well-known and to gain ideas for our own progress. Occasionally, we get the opportunity to dress up in period costume, and that can be fun.

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

My husband and I are winemakers, with a small vineyard where we produce between 500 and 600 bottles of wine a year depending on the season.

Eden Park resident and Whittlesea Historical Society president Barbara Miller. (Supplied).

Up to $40k in rebates*

Make your best move yet, today.

Stockland Halcyon Highlands is a new over 55s gated community in the heart of Mickelham with no exit fees or stamp duty. Discover resort-style living for over 55s with architecturally designed, 7-star energy-efficient homes which will redefine your lifestyle so that you can live more and maintain less.

Now is the time to step into your new lifestyle at Stockland Halcyon Highlands, with up to $40K* in rebates and flexible settlement timeframes on selected sites* available for a limited time only.

Nestled within Stockland’s masterplanned community Highlands, just 30km from Melbourne’s CBD, enjoy secure, gated living near shopping, medical centres and over 30 parks and recreation reserves. At Halcyon Highlands you will have exclusive access to resort-quality facilities including a Gold-class style cinema, pickleball courts, a bowling green, indoor pool and more.

With flexible settlement terms* and no hidden fees, you can now step into your new lifestyle at Halcyon Highlands with confidence.

Visit our Welcome Centre

1 Whites Lane, Mickleham

10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday and open by appointment on Saturday

To make an enquiry or find out more, call 1800 050 050 or scan the QR code.

Artist’s impression. Subject to change.

Halcyon Jardin,

Halcyon Evergreen

Artist’s impression. Subject to change.

Artist’s impression. Subject to change.

Museum idea to preserve history

By Oscar Parry

From rabbits to film history – a Sunbury resident is calling for a museum dedicated to stories from the suburb’s past.

Lifelong Sunbury resident and musician Chris Galea said he would like to see a “decent-sized” museum covering a range of topics from the suburb’s history.

“There are so many things about Sunbury over the years, from industry to pop festivals … shows that were filmed at Emu Bottom [and] very much in the Australian psyche …

like Tandarra and Cash and Company,” Mr Galea said.

“So many people are interested … we’ve got a dedicated history [Facebook] page, and it’s been added by so many Sunburnians that there is a wealth of old history on that page.

“That could be transferred into a building where people could actually go and feel and see it and smell things.”

Mr Galea said one aspect of Sunbury’s history that could be covered is the former RupertswoodRabbitCannerythatwasowned by Rupert Clarke.

He said the cannery employed a large team who would skin and process rabbits in solder-sealed cans, ready to be exported.

“It was a great source of cheap protein but it also helped with the rabbit population, because Sunbury’s had a massive rabbit population since forever,” he said.

“During the depression, people would come up on the trains … and they would line the Sunbury Railway Station all holding rifles and shotguns … could you imagine that happening today?”

Mr Galea said on Saturday mornings in

Exciting tales told to furry friends

A program encouraging children to practise reading aloud to cats and kittens will be offered permanently at Campbellfield’s Lort Smith adoption centre.

Lort Smith and Hume libraries partnered to trial the Tales for Tails program last year. The program offers free, 30-minute sessions forchildrenagedfiveto12topractisereading at the adoption centre.

Lort Smith spokesperson Suzana Talevski described the trial program’s results as amazing.

“The positive effects extended beyond the animals; the children’s confidence, motivation, and literacy skills flourished,” she said.

According to Lort Smith, research demonstrates that reading aloud to animals increases interest and improves self-confidence. The non-judgemental audienceisdesignedtoprovideacomfortable settingtopromotehuman-animalbondsthat encourage empathy and compassion.

Alongside the benefits for the children, the program hopes to increase adoption rates and animal wellbeing.

“Our shelter animals benefited greatly from the extra socialisation and human interaction, making them more comfortable and in many cases, more adoptable,” Ms Talevski said.

The mutually beneficial program is the first of its kind in the area, with other similar initiatives being implemented internationally.

The sessions run on Thursdays after 4pm and can be booked on the Hume libraries website or via 9356 6900.

Sunbury during the ‘60s and ‘70s, you could “almost guarantee a knock on the door” from two children or teenagers selling pairs of rabbits.

“All that history that belonged just to the rabbits in Sunbury … it’s got generations of history just about rabbits,” he said.

Mr Galea suggested a museum of this type would “ideally” be located on Jacksons Hill and include a café – giving visitors the opportunity to “spend a lot of time, be comfortable, have a break, [and] look around.”

An Epping man has been charged following an arson attack at a Craigieburn tobacco store in December.

The 32-year-old was arrested on Spencer Street in Docklands shortly before 11am on Thursday, February 6.

He was interviewed by police and charged with arson and theft of motor vehicle.

The man will appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

Police also executed search warrants were at residential addresses in Glenroy, Reservoir and Epping.

A 25-year-old Reservoir man was interviewedbypoliceandisexpected to be charged on summons.

The charges follow an incident where emergency services were called to a blaze at the Craigieburn Road store about 3.30am on Tuesday, December 10.

Anumberofmenwereseenexiting a black Holden Commodore parked directly outside the store, before throwing an accelerant into the store and setting it alight.

The shop sustained significant damage during the fire.

The same vehicle was stolen from an address in Bundoora about 1.20am that morning.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with any information about serious and organised crime linked to the illicit tobacco trade is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au

Five-year-old Rosie reads to Simba at the Lort Smith Adoption Centre in Campbellfield. (Supplied)

Kaija Du

The violence, the bullying, the daily put-downs—it was a humiliation ritual. Throughout my career, I’ve led schools through major transformations, creating environments where students take control of their own learning. When I was principal at Templestowe College, we threw out the old rulebook—students

That’s why I lead with a “yes is the default” mindset, creating an educational environment where ideas are encouraged, not blocked by unnecessary rules. The philosophy is simple: say “yes” by default, unless an idea takes too much time, too much money or negatively impacts someone else.

Now, as Executive Director of Global Village Learning, we are preparing students for life—not just exams. That means fostering independence, adaptability, and a love of learning that goes beyond the classroom. I believe that young people have far greater capacity than we often give them credit for, and my job is to make sure they have the support, resources, and encouragement to realise their full potential.

Timothy Cottrell

Discovery Evening Wednesday 26th March 2025

Imagine the finest possible education for your child…

We are no ordinary learning environment. Our rapidly growing school has emerged as a highly innovative alternative, focussed relentlessly upon the unique needs of every individual and a determination to allow all to flourish in learning, wellbeing, and a feeling of community. We are uncompromising in pursuit of this goal, and it permeates all our activities and programs.

A stimulating, intimate, and inclusive setting, committed to small student teacher-ratios, we are passionate about academic rigour, physical and mental wellbeing, positive student outcomes and a confident self-image for every young person.

Our educators are highly experienced professionals, dedicated to excellence and continuous improvement for their students and for themselves. Every year 12 student (bar none) discovers a highly positive pathway, be it academic or vocational and we congratulate them all, for they are our future. And our students have the opportunity for early University entry while they are still in year 12 through our partnership with the Centre of Higher Education studies.

It would give me great pleasure to meet with you and your children to share the wonderful educational environment that is Lalor North Secondary College.

Tracey Kift

PENOLA CATHOLIC COLLEGE

First day fun for Wollert preps

A new school in Wollert welcomed 51 prep students this month, marking an exciting milestoneforthegrowingcommunity.

Wirrigirri Primary School officially opened its doors officially at the end of January, with grade 1 to 6 students starting in the facilities which includes a learning neighbourhood, three relocatable classrooms, a relocatable administrationbuildingandaplayground.

Once completed, the school will include an administration and library building, three learning neighbourhoods, a community hub, hardcourts,acarparkandasportsfield.

Principal Bec Spink said it was a smooth transition for all students, including the preps on theirfirstdayonFebruary

“We had lots of play-based fun experiences set up for them, [the preps], to ease their transition to make sure they are familiar [with] the environment, from what they are used to from kindergarten,” she said. “They went on a school tour … to find out where to go if they need help, they had a look at the playground, where our scienceandartspacesare,andspentthemorning doingsomefunplay-basedlearning.”

Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic stopped by the school to capture all of the fun of theprepstudents’firstday.

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

Bundoora Probus

Bundoora Probus meets on the second Wednesday of each month at St Peter’s Anglican Church hall, Alma Road, Bundoora, at 10am. Make new friends at excursions, lunches, coffee mornings, walks, craft sessions and Morning Melodies programs. Hear guest speakers at monthly meetings.

 Leanne, 0419 004 997

Craft and garage sale

Bridgewater Retirement Village will host a craft and garage sale, on Saturday, March 29, 9am-noon, at 9 Wedgewood Road Roxburgh Park. Stall holders wanted.

 Liz Munro, 0409 712 613

Craigieburn Festival

Save the date for Craigieburn Festival on Saturday, March 1, from noon-9.30pm. This jam-packed family-friendly day promises entertainment and activities for all ages, including carnival rides, multicultural performances and a fireworks display.

At Anzac Park, Central Park Avenue, Craigieburn.

Colour carnival

The Whittlesea Colour Carnival- Northern Holi is on Sunday, February 23, noon-6pm at the Whittlesea civic centre, 25 Ferres Boulevard, South Morang. There will be colour play, food trucks and stalls, a live DJ and Zumba session. Entry is free.

 https://www.trybooking.com/CYCIY

Young parents group

DPV Health’s Healthy Mothers Healthy Babies program in partnership with Whittlesea council, Brave Foundation and Westfield Plenty Valley is a group for young

parents every Thursday, from 10.30am –noon during school term. The group is a supportive space that allows young parents to form friendships and develop their parenting skills. It also allows for their young children to play and socialise with other children. At The Y at Westfield Plenty Valley, 415 McDonalds Road, Mill Park.

 Asha Robinson, 0491 934 819

Chatty Cafe Join Mill Park library’s Chatty Cafe for a coffee, tea, and biscuits and meet new friends. The cafe is open every Thursday, from 6.30-7.30pm, at 394 Plenty Road, Mill Park.

 https://www.yprl.vic.gov.au/

Community singing group

Join the Broadmeadows Community Singers on Tuesdays at 7.30pm. No previous experience needed, just a love of singing.

 Sonja, 0429 587 285

Adult education

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

 9309 8531

TAC L2P Program

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) L2P Program is a community-based

program developed to assist eligible young Victorian learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain driving experience required for a probationary licence. Volunteer mentors needed.

 Cynthia Petridis, 0435 653 371

Senior citizens meet

The Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club regularly meets for games of bingo, carpet bowls and a chat over a cuppa, at the coroner of Carrick and Elmhurst drives, Gladstone Park.

 Beulah, 0411 422 398

Homestead Walking Group

Enjoy some fresh air, beautiful gardens and meet other locals. Volunteer leaders will meet at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre at 9.30am on Wednesdays for a 30-45 minute walk.

 https://tinyurl.com/2wbet35x

Broadmeadows Senior Citizens Club

The club meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and first Sunday of the month. It also has indoor carpet bowls, bingo, and snooker and on the third Saturday, and a dance from 7-11 pm. All are welcome.

 Liz Munro, 0409 712 613, or lizmunro7@gmail.com

Craft and Conversation

Craigieburn library is hosting a Wednesday weekly craft group, from 1-3pm, and everyone is welcome. Join the craft and conversation group and share your love of all things crafty. Bring your current project and make new friends.

 humelibraries.vic.gov.au

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Cristopher Pizarro Gutierrez who is Yarra Plenty Regional Libraries’ ambassador of library love. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 459458_01

Zivreet, 5, puts her balancing skills to the test in the playground, and below, Cora, 5, tests out the slide.

Melissa and Jeron get to work. (Pictures: Ljubica Vrankovic) 453635

Millani, 5, settles in to her new classroom.

Nynnette, 4, checks out the playground, and Majd, 5, settles in on his first day.

Teacher Tracey Webster with the new preps.

Festival set to be a fruitful event

After weeks of preparation, the Werribee Park Heritage Orchard Summer Fruit Tree Festival will return on Sunday March 2.

This festival is one of the largest fruit tree gatherings in Australia. It is a day to celebrate growing fruit trees and preserving heritage varieties.

At the main stage, Craig Castree holds grafting demonstrations and answers all the gardening questions. Heritage fruit workshops will be held, and visitors will be able to taste fruit picked from the orchard.

Rare and heritage fruiting plants and trees will be available to purchase to start or complement your own collection. There are

pruning demonstration to show you how to look after your fruit trees. You can walk through the orchard on a guided tour and hear about its journey over the last few years. You can also join the Werribee River keeper for a tour along the river, listen to talks from Werribeeks on beekeeping or learn how to create worm farms by Wormlovers. Enjoy live music, watch the blacksmith at work, grab a bite to eat, and browse the stalls selling all things gardening and more. Be inspired by the thriving community gardens and explore the historic buildings dating back to the 1800s with visits from Friends of Werribee Park (in farm attire).

All activities are free, with a gold coin donation for parking.

The Orchard dates back to the 1870’s when Thomas Chirnside started planting his orchard on a significant scale.

In partnership with Parks Victoria, a community group was formed in 2010 to look after the orchard. The WPHO is run solely by volunteers and provides horticultural training in preserving, growing and selling rare and heritage fruit trees. New volunteers are always welcome, no experience required.

To become a volunteer, register with ParkConnect - https://www.parkconnect.vic. gov.au/Account/Login/Register

Small halls host big acts in Ballan

The festival of Small Halls is coming to Ballan on March 5 and bringing folk music artists from across Australia and the world with it.

Taking to the stage at Ballan Neighbourhood Hous will be UK-born singer-songwriter Lucy Farrell and Hat Fitz and Cara, a high-energy duo from the Sunshine Coast.

Opening for the artists is western Victorian singer Paper Cranes.

Small Halls is a community driven regional music tour which has run for 12 years, partnering with councils to visit 15 to 20 communities in a month.

The festival brings one international and one Australian artist to town.

“Particularly for regional agricultural

communities that are working all the time, it becomes a really wonderful pivot point, because music can be such a healing and powerful thing and a great way to spend the evening,” this year’s autumn tour producer, Isobel bartlett said.

The tour is partnering with the Port Fairy Folk Festival to bring larger artists to the area.

This also brings awareness to the event and has brought audiences to follow the event into small towns, Bartlett said.

Thesecrowdsandtheconnectionwithbigger artists also help leverage local artists like Paper Cranes.

“The impact is amazing. Previous tours have allowed historical halls to be saved

from demolishment by proving their value, communities have raised money to buy a new fire truck and defib and councils have applied forfundingfornewsoundequipment,”Bartlett said.

The festival concept originates from Prince Edward Island in Canada, a folk music heavy area which has utilised a similar touring structure since 2008.

In 2013, the concept was introduced in Australia before Ontario, Canada, started its Small Halls festival in 2014.

The show at Ballan Neighbourhood House is on March 5 at 6:30. Tickets are $20 for adults. Details: https://smallhalls.flicket.io/ Kaija Du

Saddle up for rodeo action at Whittlesea

Whittlesea PBR Rodeo is expecting its best show yet at the Whittlesea Showgrounds on February 22, as part of the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) Australia Tour.

Celebratingits52ndyear,therodeoisknown for its thrilling bull-riding action, but this year’s event promises even more excitement.

In addition to the intense bull rides, it will feature an exclusive invitational Saddle Bronc competition, showcasing bucking horses from all across the country.

All the action will be showcased on the big screen, giving the people of Whittlesea the best experience of PBR at the showgrounds, where

residents can also make use of food trucks, amusements, ice-cream vans, wood-fired pizza and much more.

FMXfreestylemotocrossriderswillopenthe show at 5pm.

Tarraroo Rodeo Company director Russell Green said the show was expected to be a sell out.

“Whittlesea is one of the most exciting and entertaining rodeos … in Australia today,“ he said.

Gates open at 2pm, for a 5pm start.

Details: www.ticketebo.com.au/ tarraroo-rodeo/whittlesea-pro-rodeo-2025.

Whileapicturecanbeworthathousand words, dancing can sometimes be worth a whole new language — with an upcoming performance in St Albans putting that idea to the test.

Without Words is a dance-theatre performancethatwillvividlynarratethe journey of a person grappling with the profound challenges of communication and self-expression.

Created by Brimbank local Amelia Minh Vu, this show is inspired by Melbourne’s street dance scene.

Ms Vu said dance has always been a subconscious form of expression for her.

“I realised I felt more like myself when I danced with people, more than when I had conversations with anyone,” she said.

“Personally, words can get hard to come out of my mouth sometimes for no particular reason, whereas dance lets you pour out whatever you feel through your body.

“Whoever watches the performance, they’ll enjoy the abstract storytelling, and perhaps gain a new profound love for street dance.”

Showcasing her work in front of the community is exhilarating, Ms Vu said.

“I’m nervous and excited,” she said.

“Brimbank has been my home since birth, and it’s awesome that I get to finally share my creativity for the first time with and within the local community.”

Without Words will feature different dance styles including krump, waacking, house and hip hop.

The performance will run across two days on February 21 and 22, from 7 to 8 pm at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans.

Details: creativebrimbank.com.au/ events

High-energy duo Hat Fitz and Cara will perform at Ballan Neighbourhood House next month. (Supplied)

Rare and heritage fruiting plants and trees will be available to purchase. (Supplied)

Amelia Minh Vu is ready to kick it up at our upcoming performance. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 459347_04

Packaged liquor licence application

I/We, Taiming Ou applied to Liquor Control Victoria on 21 November 2024 for the variation of a packaged liquor licence at 671-675 High Street Thornbury VIC 3071. The variation pertains to an extension of the packaged liquor area. Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that:

•it would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated, and/or

•it would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol. An objection must state the reasons for the objection. All objections are treated as public documents.

Objections must be made in writing to: Liquor Control Victoria PO Box 1019 Richmond VIC 3121

Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice.

Packaged liquor licence application

I, George Varghese applied to the Victorian Commission on 21 June 2024 for Gambling and Liquor Regulation on (date) for the grant of a packaged liquor licence at 796F Pascoevale Rd. Glenroy VIC 3046.

Any person may object to the grant of this application on the grounds that:

•it would detract from, or be detrimental to, the amenity of the area in which the premises are situated, and/or

•it would be conducive to or encourage the misuse or abuse of alcohol

An objection must state the reasons for the objection.

All objections are treated as public documents.

Objections must be made in writing to: Victorian Commission for Gambling & Liquor Regulation GPO Box 1988, Melbourne VIC 3001

Objections must be made no later than 30 days after the date of this notice.

on Plan of Subdivision 646750B to allow for the construction of a verandah

The applicant for the permit is: R Borg - Install A Veranda

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application on the City of Whittlesea website via the following link https://www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/building-planning-development/planning/advertising/

The application reference number is: PLN-44141

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority: City of Whittlesea, 25 Ferres Blvd, South Morang.

This can be done during the office hours of 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday. This service is free of charge.

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority. An objection must be sent to the responsible authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 4 March 2025. If you object, the responsible authority will inform you of its decision.

For information regarding access to Planning documents relating to this application please contact Council’s Building and Planning Department on 9217 2170. 12750227-FR08-25

OF

FOR

PERMIT (Section 52 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987)

The property affected by the application is located at: 14 Porepunkah Street MERNDA VIC 3754

The application is for a permit for: Variation of MCP AA3442 Clause 1.2 (Side and rear setbacks) on Plan of Subdivision 734533U to allow for the construction of a verandah outside the Building Envelope

The applicant for the permit is: R Borg - Install A Veranda

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application on the City of Whittlesea website via the following link https://www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/building-planning-development/planning/advertising/

The application reference number is: PLN-44144

You may look at the application and any documents that support the application at the office of the responsible authority:

City of Whittlesea, 25 Ferres Blvd, South Morang.

This can be done during the office hours of 8:30am to 5:00pm, Monday to Friday. This service is free of charge.

Any person who may be affected by the granting of the permit may object or make other submissions to the responsible authority. An objection must be sent to the responsible authority in writing, include the reasons for the objection and state how the objector would be affected.

The Responsible Authority will not decide on the application before 4 March 2025.

If you object, the responsible authority will inform you of its decision.

For information regarding access to Planning documents relating to this application please contact Council’s Building and Planning Department on 9217 2170.

Epping VIC 3076. RFNSA reference: 3076021

1.The proposed facility consists of the addition of new Telstra equipment (including 5G) and associated works, as follows:

•The installation of six (6) new panel antennas, each approximately 2.5m in length on new mounts on a new headframe on the existing monopole

•The installation of three (3) new panel antennas, each approximately 0.80m in length on new mounts on a new headframe on the existing monopole

•The installation of five (5) new outdoor units (ODUs), each with a base area of not more than 7.5m2

•The installation of a new Telstra meter in the group meter panel

•The installation of ancillary equipment for the safe and proper operation of the facility such as a cable ladder, cable tray, cables, combiners, feeders, a GPS antenna, meter panel, remote radio units, support mounts, etc.

2. Telstra regards the proposed installation as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”), based on the description above.

3.In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/ or comments should be directed to: Archie Aparicio of Genus at Feedback@Genus.com.au or via post: Suite 4, Level 6, 111 Phillip Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 by 5pm on Thursday, 6 March 2025. Additional information may also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3076021 Telstra Limited ACN 086 174 781Genus Services Pty Ltd ABN 56 090 105 141

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which team finished on top of the ladder at the end of the 2024–25 NBL regular season?

2. Brad Donald most recently coached which sport’s Australian national women’s team?

3. Super Bowl LIX was held in which US city?

4. What medal did cross country skier Rosie Fordham win at the recent U23 World Ski

5. Dricus du Plessis defeated Sean Strickland in their middleweight title fight at UFC 312, held in which Australian state capital?

6. Which player was awarded MVP of Super Bowl LIX?

7. Australian surfer Tyler Wright was the women’s winner of the 2025 Pipe Pro, held off the coast of which US state?

Jordan Mailata is the first Australian to play in and win the championship game of which US sports league?

Australian middledistance runner Cameron Myers recently broke the world under-20 indoor record for what distance?

After which marine mammal is US golf professional Craig Stadler nicknamed?

How many top-10 seeded opponents did Madison Keys defeat to win the 2025 Australian Open?

Mauro Schmid and Ally Wollaston won the 2025 men’s and women’s titles of which Australian cycling race?

13. An NRL rule tweak will punish defenders judged to be ‘playing for’ obstruction penalties by awarding what to the opposing team?

14. Which Australian golfing great reportedly helped arrange a meeting between US president Donald Trump and Australian ambassador Kevin Rudd?

15. Who became the first person to coach a team in both the AFL and AFLW when he was appointed head coach of the AFLW’s Gold Coast Suns in January?

16. In which city will the 2025 NBA All-Star game be held?

17. Which NFL team won this year’s Super Bowl?

18. And who was the feature performer during the halftime show?

19. Prior to their recent February victory, when was the last time Australia won a Test series in Sri Lanka?

20. Two NBA exhibition games will be held in Australia this October: in which city will they take place?

21. Which Adam Sandler character is a failed ice hockey player?

22. How many countries currently have Test Match status?

23. What is the name of France’s Grand Slam tennis event?

24. In what year did Sydney host the Summer Olympics?

25. Who won the Brownlow Medal in 2003?

26. How many lions are in the logo for the England cricket team?

27. David Beckham made his professional debut for which Premier League club?

28. In golf, what is a double bogey?

29. Which animal was the Brisbane AFL team previously associated with?

30. Former American football player Terry Crews starred in which police procedural sitcom?

(Collins, Rybakina, Swiatek, Sabalenka)

Craig Stadler

To

Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

ACROSS

1 Linen fibre (4)

3 Huge statues (10)

10 Holiday spots (7)

11 1970s band, – Lake & Palmer (7)

12 Bluetooth (8)

13 Horse’s call (5)

14 Chinese currency (4)

15 Medications given to a patient (10)

18 Synthetic (10)

20 – and cons (4)

21 Plant secretion (5)

23 Manacles or fetters (8)

26 New (7)

27 Dismiss (7)

28 County town of Dorset (10)

29 Black mineral (4)

DOWN

1 Stronghold (4)

2 Attacker (9)

4 Related to childbirth (9)

5 Auguries (5)

6 Breastbone (7)

7 Japanese dish (5)

8 Combination into a whole (9)

9 Conifer, e.g. (4)

14 Not seasonal (4-5)

16 Mountain danger (9)

17 From Oslo, e.g. (9)

19 From Helsinki, e.g. (7)

22 Lecher (5)

23 Teams (5)

24 Smooch (4)

25 French for prize (4)

1 What is the capital of Ethiopia? 2 In which US state is the John F.

3 Which chemical element has the symbol Bi? 4 In which state or territory is Coffin Bay?

5 True or false: the giraffe is

b) 1793 or c) 1843? 10 True or false: some tarantula species are venomous?

Ford Ranger Tremor goes off-road

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

Ranger has been kind to Ford.

Released in 2022, clever marketing has seen the current model become Australia’s best selling ute.

Along with plenty of eye candy, that strategy includes a seemingly endless stream of grades andspecialeditionsofwhichtheTremorisone.

As we speak there are nine different grades from which to choose and a warehouse full of options to make it yours.

Even the Ranger’s SUV counterpart, Ford Everest is starting to gain some traction in a highly competitive section of the market.

In a nutshell, Tremor (nice name by the way) is a cut-price version of the Ranger Wildtrak X and like the Wildtrak X it is targeted at the off-road enthusiast. Competitors include the Nissan Navara Warrior and Mazda BT-50 Thunder.

Styling Ranger is large, at just over 5.4 metres long, 2.2 metres wide and 1.9 metres high, with a 3270mm wheelbase and 12.9-metre turning circle. Its sheer size can be a problem when it comes to parking and negotiating city streets, not to mention turning around and threading the ute between trees and so forth off road.

Prices for Ranger start from $36,880 plus on-roads for the barebones 4×2 XL single cab chassiswitha2.0-litreturbodieselandanauto.

But the so-called 4×4 sport utilities attract the most attention, starting with Sport, XLT andWildtrak-at$66,140,$63,640and$69,640.

Then there’s the petrol-powered Raptor (yes, petrol powered) which sits well above them all, with a breathtaking price tag of $90,440 - plus on-roads of course.

WhileWildtrakXwasbasedontheWildtrak, theTremorisbasedonthelowerechelonSport, but both offer the same enhanced capabilities. Upto1150Tremorswillbebuilt,pricedfrom $69,690pluson-roads-hardlybudget-friendly?

Released early 2023, Wildtrak X was priced at $75,990.

Working out exactly what you get for your hard-earned dough is no easy task.

Tremor has all the features of the Sport Double-Cab 2.0L Bi-Turbo 4×4 model, with a long list of following additions including: full-time 4WD, 17-inch Asphalt Black alloy wheels, General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres, 30mm increase in track, Trail Turn Assist and Trail Control, rock crawl Drive Mode, Tremor badging and styling Tremor-embossed vinyl seats, front and rear black Ford oval badges and option of Conquer Grey paint, Tremor branded all-weather front and rear floor mats, overhead auxiliary switch bank for aftermarket accessories, honeycomb grille with auxiliary grille LED lights, 2.3mm steel front bash plate, cast aluminium side steps and extended sports bar.

Tremor is available in a range of six exterior colours. White is standard, the other five are a $700 option.

Infotainment

Tremor scores a smaller 10.1-inch portrait touchscreen and 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster, with Bluetooth, voice control, built-in satnav with 12-month connected navigation services, DAB+ digital radio, both wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six-speakeraudiopluswirelessphonecharging. There’sUSBA+Cportsfront,a12voltoutlet in the console box and a 400W AC outlet at the rear of the console.

FordPass app allows you to view vehicle status.

Safety

Tremor scores a five-star safety rating with a rear view camera and nine airbags, including driver and passenger knee airbags along with the latest centre airbag which provides added

protection to front seat occupants in side impact crashes.

There’s also Autonomous Emergency Braking w/ Junction Assist, Blind Spot MonitoringwithCrossTrafficAlertandTrailer Coverage, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Traffic Sign Recognition and Lane Centring, Lane Keeping System with Road Edge Detection and Driver Alert System.

There are two top tether and two ISOFix child seat anchors.

Driving

Suspension is independent at front with traditional leaf springs at the rear, but the shocks are mounted outside the chassis rails, which helps to reduce sideways movement.

Brakes are ventilated discs front and rear, which is great news, while this model is fitted with chunky off-road rubber.

A full-size alloy spare is provided.

The all important tub measures 1464mm in length, 1520mm wide and 525mm deep, with 1217mm between wheel arches.

A step is cleverly located either side of the rear bumper to facilitate access, but simply reaching in is not feasible.

Thisparticulargradeisratedtocarrya937kg payload and of course it can tow a 3500kg braked trailer.

Upgrades include shielded heavy duty power steering.

New springs and dampers, together with 17-inch wheels and chunky General Grabber AT3 265/70 series rubber boost ground clearance 26mm to 260mm. That’s 12mm shy of range-topping Raptor.

Wading depth is 800mm.

The setup includes premium heavy duty Bilstein shocks and increases the track front and rear by 30mm, contributing to better stability - both on and off the road.

A locking rear diff is standard.

Tremor’s off-road credentials are also bolstered by three electronic aids: Trail Turn Assist, Trail Control and Rock Crawl.

Trail Turn Assist reduces the turning radius by applying brakes to the inside rear wheel in tight situations (but it’s not available with the diff locked).

Off-roading capability is further enhanced

Close on the heels of last year’s Wildtrak X, comes another special edition Ranger — the off-road focused Tremor. (Pictures: Supplied)

with the inclusion of a Rock Crawl drive mode and Trail Control.

TrailControlisakindoff-roadcruisecontrol that can take control of acceleration and braking at low speed.

Rock Crawl drive mode provides optimal slow-speed traction and momentum on loose and rocky surfaces.

There’s no doubting Ranger is an impressive ute, but we can’t understand the family attraction when an SUV would be more comfortable and even better off road.

To get the best out of a ute you really need to jack them up and that creates problems when it comes to getting in and out, not to mention the effectithasonhandlingandsteeringgeometry.

Tremor rides a bit higher, but in the end its length and long overhanging tail are limiting factors, together with things like the side steps and rigid plastic mudflaps which are easily damaged.

Sand and moderately rough fire trails should present no problems, but after that you might

want to exercise some caution.

Even the 26mm lift makes getting in and out of the ute more difficult and this becomes apparent stretching with your foot to find the ground. The ride is also noticeably firmer thanks to the suspension changes and all-terrain tyres compared to the Platinum version we drove previously. It becomes jiggly over smaller bumps in the road and occupants may find themselves reaching for something to hold onto when it comes to corners.

Throttle response from the 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel is strong, with very little turbo lag, but tends to become a little jerky on and off the accelerator.

Outontheopenroadhowevertheutecruises smoothly and easily.

Steering is light around town but weights up nicely at speed, with plenty of communication for the driver.

The cabin is trimmed in vinyl water-resistant upholstery, with all weather mats which might be practical but are also cheap.

The start button occupies what was the key barrel on the steering column and takes some getting used to.

The stubby transmission lever is a pain in the butt.

You need to release the transmission with your middle finger and changing between drive and reverse requires some precision. Small thumb switches on the side of the lever are provided to change gears manually. They workokay,butagainsomeaccuracyisrequired. We found ourselves mistakenly clicking the thumb switches to move the car into drive or reverse.

Change paddles would be a lot easier. Raptor gets paddles.

Summing up

Close on the heels of last year’s Wildtrak X, comes another special edition Ranger - the off-road focused Tremor.

Ford says it’s targeted at those who couldn’t afford the X, but comes with the X essentials. But if you couldn’t afford the X, it’s unlikely you’llhavethefundsfortheTremoreither-not at $70K plus by the time it hits the road.

Who’s kidding who? Just saying.

There was a slice of winter on Saturday as rain played havoc on the sporting fields. There was still some action able to get underway with Star Weekly photographer Ljubica Vrankovic shooting some of the action.

Winter blast proves challenging

The old Sunshine rivalry was back ont he pitch. 458408_06

Supporters at the North Sunshine Eagles and Caroline Springs George Cross match. 458408_10

Romsey players waiting to bat. 459470_16

Romsey’s Taylor Stevenson. 459470_05

Rupertswood’s Joe Honner. 459472_01

It was a good day for Rupertswood. 459472_05

North Western Titans’ Jarrod Johns. 459469_11

Caroline Springs George Cross’ Aydin Sayan. 458408_01

North Western Titans’ Cy Haymes. 459469_03

Rupertswood’s Joel Muir. 459472_08

Sunbury United’s Pulindu Kiriella. 459470_01

Kookas fall short in their smash grand final bid

Rivergum fell just short of claiming the inaugural Diamond Valley Cricket Association Mash Shield summer smash title.

The Kookas faced Dennis in the first of the three summer smash grand finals on Sunday at Montmorency.

Despite some rain around and a short rain delay, the match was able to get a result without it being shortened.

The Kookas won the toss and decided to bat.

After a good start they struggled and were bowled out for 117 with two balls remaining.

Suvra Saha top scored with 30 at the top of the order, with fellow opener Harish Ravichandran (20) the only other player to reach 20.

Vivek Dhankar took three wickets for Dennis.

While not having many runs on the board, the Kookas kept themselves in the game. They had Dennis at 6-71.

But Thomas Sweetman would stand between them and victory. Sweetman made 77 not out off 42 balls to guide his side to victory

with two balls remaining, Dennis finished 6-119.

Jarrod Bannister and Saha took two wickets each for the Kookas.

Not surprisingly, Sweetman was named player of the match for his performance with the bat.

Speaking after the game, Kookas captain Matt Perri said they really enjoyed the format andthenewconcept.Thecompetitionreplaced the Northern Region T20 competition that used to be played between DVCA and North Metro Cricket Association sides.

“Dennis you were too good and I think were undefeated all tournament ,thoroughly deserved,” he said. “Tommy, some good hitting, really took the game away from us.

“Proud of the effort as we didn’t have much on the board but we worked pretty much to that last ball.

“A game of inches really.

“We’ve got something else to focus on now. We’ve enjoyed this but focus on the two-day cricket now.”

Dennis captain Daniel Martini said the Kookas had been bench mark in the Mash Shield competition and it was nice to get one over them.

The two sides both crossed to the DVCA this season.

In the Barclay Shield super smash grand final, Rosanna had a huge win against North Eltham Wanderers.

Rosanna made 7-140 from its overs with Sam Sheehan making 55.

After putting on 29 for the opening partnership, it went all wrong for the Wanderers who were bowled out for 56.

Patrick Bourke took 5-8 off four overs.

In the Money Shield super smash, Eltham beat Lower Plenty.

Lower Plenty made 9-103 from its overs with William Jenkin and Jackson Smith top scoring with 23 apiece.

Eltham hit the winning runs in the 17th over, finishing 4-104.

Tara Murray

Donnybrook plays well

By Tara Murray

It was a frustrating day with the weather on Saturday, but Donnybrook made the most of its time on the field in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Russell Pollock Shield.

Sides were on and off all day on Saturday, with some sides not even taking to the pitch at all due to rain.

Donnybrook managed to get nearly a whole day’s play in against Melton Centrals and it was a good day out for the side.

President Noel Seipolt said having to take covers on and off all day for a number of their matches was frustrating.

He said in Donnybrook itself, it had avoided rain the past month until the last two days. Seipolt said they were really happy with how the first XI side went about it in Melton. Centrals were bowled out for just 58 in the 31st over.

Kamalpreet Singh took 6-25 off 16 overs for Donnybrook with Vikram Mandhotra taking three wickets.

Seipolt said they all bowled really well.

Donnybrook then put the foot down with the bat and finished the day at 6-251 off 37 overs.

Puneet Sharma made 80 off 59 balls.

“It was a really good run rate,” Seipolt said.

“The way that they play they have to hit it in the air all the time.

“We could be going for our second outright in a row if we get one this week . Our seconds got an outright last week as well and are in a good position again.

“All our sides are playing well.”

An outright win could keep Donnybrook’s top two hopes alive heading into the final round.

It is currently eight points behind Pascoe Vale Central and five points behind Barkly Street Uniting, which it plays in the final round,

Seipolt said they were hoping they could go at least one step further this season having been knocked out in the semi final last year.

“The boys are hitting their straps at the right time of the season.

It could be a big month for Donnybrook

T20 final four teams decided

The final four of the Victorian

Cricket Association T20 competition have been locked in.

The quarter finals were played on Tuesday night with some thrillers played out.

Deer Park was too good for Point Cook Centrals. The Sharks, who play in division 3, were the lowest ranked team left in the competition and had a big test ahead of them. The Sharks batted first and made 5-134 for their innings.

Max Pritchard top scored with 50, while Aaron Shellie was the only multiple wicket taker for the Lions with two.

The Lions made the runs with two overs remaining, finishing 6-138. Skipper Dean Russ top scored with 42.

Deer Park is the only senior division team left after Sydenham-Hillside and Westmeadows suffered losses.

The Storm fell short against an inform Altona North side.

Batting first, the Storm made 8-120 from its overs with Anthony Barton top scoring with 41.

Connor Smith took four wickets for Altona North.

After losing an early wicket, Altona North North was steady through most of its innings.

It lost a couple of wickets with victory insight, but managed to get the job done as it finished 7-121.

with finals coming up.

Seipolt said they could achieve something he doesn’t think they’ve done before.

“We have all 10 sides in the four and we should have 10 sides playing in finals. I don’t think we’ve had a season where every team has played finals, but anything can happen.”

Jacana has the bye.

Meanwhile in senior division, Craigieburn is in trouble against St Albans.

On a damp wicket, the Saints were bowled out for 147 with Benjamin Radford taking four wickets.

The Eagles top order failed though and they will resume at 4-13.

Westmeadows match with Sydenham-Hillside has become a one-dayer after no action on day one.

In the Steve McNamara Shield, Tullamarine was bowled out for 55 against the Williamstown Imperials.

The Imperials will result at 1-10.

Greenvale Kangaroos didn’t get on against Newport-Digman and it will be a one-dayer this Saturday.

Haydn Wilkinson top scored with 31. Anthony Alleyne took four wickets for the Storm.

TheDruidsknockedoffWestmeadows in its match in another match that was decided with an over to spare.

The Warriors made 6-153 from their overs with Donovan Pell top scoring with 68. After losing an early wicket, the Wizards put on 121 for the second wicket partnership to take control of the game. The Wizards did enough to finish 3-156. Michael Hay top scored with 68 not out off 53 balls.

Sunshine beat PEGS in the other match. The Crows made 5-144 from their overs with Troy Stone finishing with 43 at the top of the order. Shakeem Clarke took two wickets for the two wickets for PEGS. PEGS never looked likely as it finished 9-95.

Sunshine will play Altona North in the semi finals, while Deer Park will play the Druids.

Mohan Singh. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Jarrod Bannister. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 449509_11

Turf

Isgrove stars late to help Hume City to victory

Lloyd Isgrove saved his best for last to help Hume City get on the board in the National Premier League.

After a loss in round one, Hume was keen to find some form and a win on Friday night against the Dandenong Thunder.

The Thunder scored just before half time to lead 1-0 at the break.

Isgrove levelled the scores in the 82nd minute and then he got a winner in the 94th, giving Hume City a 2-1 win.

Hume coach Riccardo Marchioli said it was nice to be back at home and get the win on the board.

“It was a really important win,” he said. “I think every game will be critical.

“I think Lloyd is the best player in the league and it’s nice to have someone like that working his magic.

“He can change games and we saw that last

year. We’re lucky to have him.”

Marchioli said even when they were still down with 10 minutes remaining they were confident that they could get the job done.

He said they had shown in the first couple of rounds and pre-season that they can run out the games well.

Marchioli said it was something that they had worked really hard on in the off season and would use that as an asset this season.

“I was confident that we were going to score,” he said. “I thought if we were going to score in the next five minutes that we would take the three points.

“Wehaveonlyscoredinthelast10minutes.

We are never out of the game and it’s never over, until it’s over.”

Marchiolisaidtheyfelttheywouldbereally dangerous if they could hit the scoreboard early in games with their finishing ability.

It’s been a bit of an off season of change for Hume, which includes Marchioli coming in as coach.

He said the change room had been one of the more special he has been a part of.

“There’s been a little bit of turnover, which we felt was necessary,” he said. “We will take some time to gel.

“It’s one of the most special teams I’ve been part of which has made it a lot easier to understand the culture.

“The staff have been working extremely hard. We’ve worked really hard, harder than a lot of other clubs.”

Hume City faces Green Gully in round three.

In the Victorian Premier League 2 competition, Whittlesea United had a 2-2 draw against the Boroondara-Carey Eagles.

Pacers are ready to go

By Tara Murray

Whittlesea Pacers have locked in a new import and some key recruits as it aims to go further in the Big V men’s division 1 competition.

The Pacers had a strong first season back up in the division 1 before a disappointing finals series.

Having kept their core group together the Pacers are keen to have another short at the title.

Pacers coach Des Radoslovic said it was already full steam ahead for the season ahead.

“We are hoping to contend again,” he said. “We start practice matches this week.

“Hopefully we can go a couple of steps better.”

Import Raheem Anthony arrived in Australia last week.

Radoslovic said Anthony was keen to start his professional career in Australia.

“He’s a very explosive player,” he said. “He was a division 3 all-star player before playing in division 1 his last year.

“He still had really solid numbers in the

NCAA. We think he will have a big impact in our league

“Speaking with him on the phone, we spoke about game style and program. He thought this was the best place to showcase his skills.”

Anthony has big shoes to fill with last year’s import Meekness Payne winning the league most valuable player award.

Payne is playing in the National Basketball League 1 competition in New South Wales this year.

Radoslovic said the two imports are very different players.

“Meekness was a tall four man who was more of a scorer,” he said. “Raheem is 6’4, 100 kilograms and a powerful guard.

“He will generate our offensive. Ash Bryar, who was our point guard, has retired. He got injured last year and it put more pressure on our younger guards.

“Now Raheem comes in and the ball will be in his hands.”

Having had a real spread of scorers last season, Radoslovic said they were expecting more of the same this year.

The similar core has remained led by

Sports shorts

EDFL

Roxburgh Park has announced two big signings for the Essendon District Football League division 1 season. Luke Smith, who won Westmeadows best and fairest last season, returns to his junior club where he won five best and fairests in a row. He has played the past four seasons at Westmeadows. Meanwhile Brad Coulson brings more than 70 games of South Australian National Football League experience to the Magpies. He is described as an elite talent who brings leadership and a big-bodied presence to the midfield.

Premier Cricket

Rain ruined Greenvale Kangaroos hopes of a second win in the Victorian Premier Cricket season. Having made 7-309 on day one of their match with Essendon, the Kangaroos were hoping the bowlers would finish the job. Only 18 overs were bowled on Saturday due to the weather, with Essendon 0-92. The Kangaroos will finish their season with a two-dayer against Melbourne University.

VSDCA

Patrick Green, Jason Dirkx and Angus Fischer.

Other new signings include Jah Soloai from Hume City Broncos, who is expected to give them a big presence defensively, Owen Stephens, who won the youth league 2 men’s most valuable player award a couple of seasons ago, Tom Scott, who played under Radoslovic at the Altona Gators and Bernolf Abary,whohasplayedyouthleagueatAltona and Wyndham.

Radoslovic said all bought different skill sets that they believed worked with their game style.

The Pacers senior men have spent the season training with the club’s youth league side.

Just two players from last year’s team have returned with the new side made up of players from the club’s under-18 and under-20 programs.

The Pacers fell just short of promotion in youth league men 1 in the play off games held in early February.

“They did quite well to win the first game,” Radoslovic said. “From where they were in the beginning, they did a really good job.

Plenty Valley has slipped to sixth in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association south-west. The Bats were due to face Preston in a two-dayer on the weekend, but it became a one-dayer after day one was washed out. The Bats were bowled out for just 112 in the 38th over with Chenutha kavinda Wickramasinghe top scoring with 24. Preston hit the winning runs in the 18th over, finishing 2-115.

DVCA

Rain halted play in all the Diamond Valley Cricket Association Barclay Shield matches on Saturday. Bundoora was 2-26 against Heidelberg when play was abandoned, Diamond Creek was 0-58 against Epping, while Riverside was 0-38 against Bundoora United. All matches will resume this Saturday. It was a similar case in the Money and Mash shields, with the exception South Morang and Thomastown’s match. South Morang declared at 8-212, with Thomastown finishing the day at 4-90.

Tara Murray Lloyd Isgrove. (Ljubica Vrankovic)

Whittlesea Pacers are ready to go again. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 424320_01

Merrifield Panthers sitting pretty on top

MerrifieldPanthersstrongformhascontinued intheNorthNorthWestMetropolitanCricket

Association George Luscombe Shield.

The Panthers sit atop the table with one loss for the season and again piled on the runs of day one with their clash with Gladstone Park.

Panthers president Harmandeep Bhathal said things were going really well.

“We are on top of the ladder and we should win this week,” he said. “We have lost just one game for the season.”

On Saturday, the Panthers made 296 as they were bowled out in the 61st over after being sent in.

Tarun Gupta top scored with 98 after coming in at number eight.

Bhathal, who is also the first XI captain, said it was a really good score in challenging conditions with many matches across Melbourne called off.

“We’re very happy, especially in those conditions,” he said. “It was skiddy and

raining all day.

“We were at 6-136 before Tarun came in and hit seven fours and seven sixes. Hopefully we can defend that.”

Rahul Mall took five wickets for the Burras, while Gurpartap Singh took three.

The Panthers will then finish the regular season against the Chargers, who will also play finals. The Darebin Chargers and Tarneit Central are also set to play finals. Tarneit will only miss out if Kealba Green-Gully can pull off a miracle. Meanwhile, the Panthers T20 campaign came to an end on Tuesday night in the semi finals.

The Darebin Chargers made 5-183.

The Panthers could only manage 7-169 in reply to end their campaign. Dhruv Poojari Redhu top scored with 68.

Bhathal said they were beaten by a good side that played better on the day. Brunswick is the other side through to the grand final.

Things have been going well across the club,

with all their sides, both seniors and juniors, in positions to play finals.

He said with their senior program so new, they couldn’t have asked for much more from them.

“We’ve on top and we have the momentum going,” he said. “We can not expect any more.

“We’ve lost one game and are playing some good cricket.”

In the Vic Kyte Shield, Lalor Stars were 1-60 off 15 overs against RMIT when that game was called off.

Northern Lions made 178 against the Chargers before having the Chargers in trouble at 6-97.

In the Athol Attwater Shield, Hume made 283 against Genesis.

Tara Murray

Nations line up for cup

By Tara Murray

The Nations Footy Cup is back bigger and better than ever this year.

The event, which is being held at Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve on February 23, with at least 20 teams set to battle it out in the fifth edition of the event.

Co-owners Beejay Johnson and Michael Ogliaro said they were excited to see the event return to Diggers Rest, with upgrades to the ovals and facilities completed.

There will be five women’s teams and at least 15 men’s teams.

“We held our carnival here last year, and we were absolutely stoked to once again be hosting at this fantastic venue,” they said.

“The support from Melton council, especially local councillor John Verdon, the local footy and cricket clubs, and the community has been incredible, and we look forward to continuing to grow the Nations Footy Cup here for years to come.”

This year Timor-Leste joins the competition for the first time in the men’s competition, marking an exciting opportunity to showcase the incredible talent within this community

and further highlight the growing diversity of the Nations Footy Cup.

The Team World men’s side has been revamped and will bring a fresh energy and talent to the competition.

They will be led by Western Bulldogs star Jamarra Ugle-Hagan as coach, whose experience and skill will be a huge asset to the team.

In the women’s competition, there will be the introduction of Team Italy which will be coached by Taylors Lakes women’s coach Joseph Antonetti.

Meanwhile, Albania returns to the competition after a short break and coach

Amet Aliuvsko is confident his team has what it takes to make a serious impact this year.

Italy will have four teams this year.

Team Australia women’s coach Ron Sikora, who has coached the side since the start, will again be in charge of the team.

Former Geelong player and Sunbury resident Abbey McDonald will be part of that team.

Hillside star forward Josh Covelli has been named Italy’s captain. He is coming off kicking 100 goals in the Essendon District

Second tier comp unveiled

Soccer’s new national second tier competition has a name - the Australian Championship - but as yet there is no road map towards promotion and relegation with the A-League Men.

Launched by Football Australia on Wednesday, the competition kicks off on October 10 and will “complement” and sit between the ALM and the National Premier Leagues.

As previously flagged, the competition is no longer the pitched full home-and-away format, but will instead feature four groups of four teams.

Victorian clubs Preston, South Melbourne and Avondale are joined by NSW counterparts Marconi, Sydney United 58, Sydney Olympic, APIA Leichhardt and Wollongong as eight foundation clubs.

The other eight clubs are made up of premiers from the respective NPL competitions around the country, with each group to have two foundation clubs and two premiers. The groups will play a home-and-away format, with the top two teams from each group qualifying for finals, and the grand final taking place on the weekend of December 6-7.

Football League division 1 competition.

Burnside Heights’ star Krissy Trang will lead the Team World women’s side. Trang last year became the first female to claim three EDFL league best and fairests.

Josh Chatfield, who has signed full time at Deer Park will be representing Team World. He was formerly Footscray’s Victorian Football League side.

Other big names include Tom Baluch, who is known as Prime Train, who will captain the Allies, former Frankston VFL player and 18-year-old Noah Van Haren, who made his senior football debut at 15.

Johnson and Ogliaro said they were keen to keep growing the cup in the future.

“We want to select our best men’s and women’s teams and compete internationally against the likes of AFL USA or AFL Asia,” they said. “We also have plans to introduce a junior carnival to further develop the next generation of footy talent.

“We can’t wait to see what the future holds.”

Off the field, there will be plenty of activities off the field including jumping castles, face painting, and food.

Gates open at 8am.

The Australian Championship is clearly connected to the NPL competition, while extending it to a full home-and-away format will depend on its success. But there is no definitive timeline of completing the football pyramid through promotion and relegation to the ALM.

Australian Professional Leagues chief executive James Johnson said how the competition evolved would also depend on the success of the first season.

“In terms of the connectivity, right now, the focus has been on getting the second tier up and running and moving it from a conversation to something that is tangible, which we’re doing at the moment,” he said.

“We have deliberately connected it to the NPL and that’s the first step. In terms of how that connection works with the APL, that’s something we don’t want to be prescriptive about at the moment, simply because we want the second tier to work.”

Caroline Springs George Cross said in November it still wanted in this year’s competition. It was one of six clubs Football Australia said was unable to meet the mandatory financial requirements.

The Nations Footy Cup is back this weekend. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 458095_04

Rajwinder Singh. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 455344_03