A long-awaited upgrade of the Western Highway between Melton and Caroline Springs is finally on the cards, with the federal government to spend $1 billion upgrading the road.
Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister
Catherine King announced the funding – part of a $1.1 billion package which also includes money for works near Ballarat – on Thursday, March 6.
The state and federal government previously funded a business case for the upgrade, announced prior to the 2022 federal election. Work on the business case was completed in December.
Ms King said the upgrade was needed to accommodate the number of people who use the road daily and the region’s projected population growth.
According to Melton council, the Melton to Caroline Springs stretch of the highway is used by 86,00 motorists daily – including more than 5400trucks.Modellingpredictsthiswillriseto 110,000 vehicles daily by 2031.
“We know how important this road is from a freight and logistics point of view, but we also know how important it is to be able to get people to work,” Ms King said.
“We know what happens from 6am to 9.30am in the morning and when people are trying to get home, that tail back, getting back into Melton in particular ... this is a significant and serious investment from the Albanese Labor Government to make sure we improve these corridors.”
State Transport Infrastructure Minister Gabrielle Williams said the federal funding wouldenablethesategovernmenttolookatthe upgrade options proposed in the business case and decide the best course of action.
As reported by Star Weekly, the upgrade of the Western Highway has been one of Melton council’s key advocacy priorities for a number of years.
Last week, council launched its federal election advocacy campaign, calling for investment in the highway, Hopkins Road, Melton Highway, and the Palmers Road Corridor, north of the Western Highway (including Robinsons Road, Westwood Drive and Calder Park Drive).
At the time, mayor Steve Abboushi said the Western Highway was the second-busiest freight corridor in Australia, with over five million tonnes freight movement annually and had fallen well behind in terms of its condition and safety.
Cr Abboushi described the $1 billion funding commitment as fantastic news for the community.
“We are delighted with today’s announcement. The Western Highway upgrade has been a top priority for council and the community, and this funding will deliver much-neededupgradessoourresidentscanget to and from work safely and spend more time with their families,” he said on Thursday.
“This funding demonstrates that working in partnership across all levels of government can lead to positive outcomes for our fast-growing community.
“Welookforwardtocontinuingtoworkwith both levels of government to understand the specificdetailsofthisinvestmentandtimelines for delivery.”
Council said the upgrade is tipped to include extra lanes and upgrades to key intersections.
On Friday, the Liberal Party committed to honouring the funding if it wins the federal election.
Liberal Candidate for Hawke Simmone Cottom said the Western Freeway is congested with cars queuing at exit ramps and traffic dodging potholes.
“I’ve been fighting for improved capacity and safety along the Western Freeway between Melton and Caroline Springs, including improvements to the Ferris Road interchange,” she said.
WesternMetropolitanMPDavidEttershank said the funding was welcome, but the west was still in desperate need of effective public transport.
“The Western Highway is increasingly not
fit-for-purpose, as the number of city-bound cars continues to climb,” Mr Ettershank said.
“We welcome the funding, we’re glad the federal government has stepped up – and we also call on the commonwealth to help fund the upgrade to the Calder Highway, especially thediamond-interchangeatCalderParkDrive.
“But we also prompt the state and federal governments to remember that people need quality public transport. That is the best way to provide long-term relief to traffic congestion and improve service access in the west.
“Yes, roads will be critical as the west continues to expand and so while we welcome the increase in funding, we are also that road construction and repairs take time.
“Let’s get the west’s public transport sorted –thatincludesinvestmentinrailanddirectand frequent bus services.”
Federal Labor Gorton candidate Alice Jordan-Baird, state Melton MP Steve McGhie, federal Gorton MP Brendan O’Connor, federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King, Melton mayor Steve Abboushi, state Transport Infrastructure Minister Gabrielle Williams and federal Hawke MP Sam Rae announce the funding in Cobblebank on Thursday. (Supplied)
Electrify the Melton line: Report
By Laura Michel
Melbourne’s rail network should be electrified to Melton and new stations built at Mt Atkinson and Thornhill Park, according to Infrastructure Victoria.
Last week, the peak body released its 30-year infrastructure strategy outlining a number of proposals to improve public transport, roads and community facilities across the state.
The strategy stated that the state government shouldextendmetropolitantrainservicesfrom Sunshine to Melton by electrifying the Melton line by 2030.
(Hopkins Road) within the same timeframe to support communities without rail access, the strategy said.
“These places have strong population growth and plans for a metropolitan activity centre, including the new Melton Hospital,” Infrastructure Victoria said.
“The extensions would reduce congestion and travel times on many roads and trains during morning peak hours, including the Western Freeway.
“Ourmodellingshowsthattheywouldresult in up to 16,300 more train boardings and around 9000 fewer car trips each day by 2041.”
TheelectrificationoftheMeltonlinewasfirst proposed by the state government in 2018 as
part of the Western Rail Plan.
The planning stages of the project were meant to be completed by 2023.
The state government has not provided a timeline for electrification of the Melton line.
Melton council has been calling on the government to implement the Western Rail Plan and build the Thornhill Park and Mt Atkinson stations.
Council said that while Melton train station was being upgraded, modelling it has undertaken has shown this will not be enough to support the expected demand as the population continues to grow over the coming years.
Infrastructure Victoria also recommended
Joanne Mumford and Jake Langdown need your help to fight rare blood cancers. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 462318_04
An edgy shave to fight blood cancer
EDGE Community Services in Hoppers Crossing on Friday, March 28 will be hosting the World’s Greatest Shave to raise money and awareness for blood cancer research. Between11-1pm,thecommunityisinvitedto comealongandlearnabitaboutbloodcancers.
Battling rare blood cancers is something EDGE’s Jo Mumford is all too familiar with. DiagnosedwithLangerhanscellhistiocytosis (LCH),arareformofbloodcancer,onher50th birthday, her life took a dramatic turn.
The Bacchus Marsh woman went through chemotherapy for two weeks and had the cancer in remission.
The good news was quickly soured when was thendiagnosedwithanotherrarebloodcancer, essential thrombocythaemia (ET).
Her daughter eldest Simmone has been by her side on the journey.
“It was like an exciting moment to have the treatment work, but then to find out she has anotherveryrareconditionwassad,”Simmone said.
Despite the challenges and intensive treatment, JO is getting on with things.
“She is a very strong woman, works five days aweekandstillliveshernormallife,”Simmone said.
Cash splash for parklands
More than $1 million will be spent on conservation, community engagement and future planning at two regional parklands across Melbourne’s north-west.
Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos said the government would provide $1.14 million in grants for five priority projects cross marram baba Merri Creek Regional Parklands and Jacksons Creek biik wurrdha Regional Parklands as part of its suburban parks program.
The marram baba Merri Creek Regional Parklands will encompass over 2700-hectares of parkland from Campbellfield to Beveridge. Jacksons Creek biik wurrdha Regional Parklands will span over 1000 hectares and stretch along Jacksons Creek from Sunbury to Diggers Rest. The government said the five projects will be delivered by managers and land management partners in each parkland,
focusing on future planning, conservation and community engagement.
In the marram baba Merri Creek Regional Parklands, community events will be delivered by the Merri Creek Management Committee.
The funding will support the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation to lead an archaeological study of Jacksons Creek biik wurrdha Regional Parklands.
Sunbury MP Josh Bull said, “Our local community has important connections to our area and this investment will continue to enhance that whilst delivering new green open space”.
Parks Victoria has also received funding to carry out conservation works in both parks to help protect native animals and plants. All projects are expected to be completed by mid-2026.
the government expand the bus network in the outer suburbs. Among the recommended new servicesisabusfromMeltontoBroadmeadows.
Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank welcomed Infrastructure Victoria’s recommendation, saying the west needed better public transport.
MrEttershank’sLegaliseCannabisPartyhas been campaigning for better buses for the west. He said quality public transport was the best way to provide long-term relief to traffic congestion and improve service access in the west.
“Let’s get the west’s public transport sorted –that includes investment in rail and direct and frequent bus services,” he said.
Grants to help community
Greater Western Water (GWW) is encouraging community groups across Melton and Moorabool to apply for a grant or sponsorship through its Thriving Communities program.
Applications are now open for not-for-profit organisations to apply for a grantofupto$20,000forprojectsandup to $5000 for community activities that help local communities, environment and industry to thrive.
Since 2022 GWW has supported over 60 community-led initiatives including the Multicultural Association of Community Empowerment, which received $5000 for its Dandiya Raas celebration. Moorabool Landcare NetworkandGrowWestreceivedalmost $20,000 to rehabilitate the banks of the Werribee River.
The organisation used the grant to remove serrated tussock and artichoke thistle along the banks of the river,which helps to improve water quality and habitat potential, particularly for the vulnerable platypus who live around the site.
“It’s very hard, but we have to stay strong for mum, she makes us stronger.”
The event, which will continue annually, has the objective of raising a thousand dollars on the day .
But Simmone wants people to take home a message to keep long after the event.
Thestategovernmenthasnoplanstoimplement changes to Vineyard Road in Diggers Rest.
Former Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik wrote to Roads and Roads Safety Minister Melissa Horne in September regarding the road and council’s suggestions to modify the intersection.
It came after a notice of motion from councillor Bob Turner at the August council meeting, calling for the state government to investigate community safety concerns and review the timing for the duplication of
Vineyard Road, including the Calder Freeway overpass bridge.
As reported by Star Weekly, the DREAM Diggers Rest Advocacy group also wrote to Ms Horne in January calling for the duplication of VineyardRoad.Thegrouphadbeenadvocating for the duplication since 2022.
Ms Horne responded to the council on January 29 in a letter that was tabled at the council meeting on Monday.
The letter said Vineyard Road is a primary arterial road connecting Sunbury and Melton
Education hub started
A sod-turning ceremony for a new Catholic educational facility being built in Thornhill Park has marked an exciting milestone for the wider community.
The St Padre Pio Catholic Primary School and Children’s Hub are set to open to families in February 2026.
Founding Principal Daniel Bermingham said St Padre Pio is unique and exciting for both Melton and the Melbourne Archdiocese of Catholic Schools as it is the first school in Australia to bear the name of St Padre Pio, and together with St Marianne Cope in Mt Atkinson, will be one of the first combined Catholic primary School and children’s hubs to be built on the same site.
“This will truly be a learning place of difference and a landmark project for the Archdiocese,“ Mr Bermingham said.
“I am honoured and privileged to be the founding principal. To have the opportunity to work with an empty canvas and to develop the story of St Padre Pio from the ground up
will be such a rewarding experience for the community, myself, and all involved.”
Stage one will include nine classrooms, a STEM space, full administration and staff areas, three spaces for three-and-four-yearold early learning, a designated before-and after-school care area, basketball courts, a full car park and extensive landscaping.
Future stages of the build will include additional classrooms and specialist spaces, an indoor gymnasium and arts centre, further play spaces, outdoor learning facilities, and a fully synthetic oval.
Gladys Barreta
St Padre Pio founding principal Daniel Bermingham. (Supplied)
Sod turned at new school
A secondary school will be built in Cobblebank in an effort to meet increasing enrolment demand from the growing community.
Deputy Premier and Education Minister Ben Carroll and Melton MP Steve McGhie recently visited the site and turned a sod at the school grounds that will cater for up to 865 students, including 65 with disabilities.
Mr Carroll said Cobblebank Secondary School would provide a great education to families in this growing community.
Cobblebank Secondary College (interim name) is scheduled to open in term one 2026.
Once opened, the school will include two multi-storey buildings and a community hub, the state government said,
The facilities will include specialist areas for technology, science, music and drama as well as two hard courts and a sports field.
and the corridor has been identified as requiring future upgrades.
Ms Horne said the government had no plans to implement the council’s ideas.
“The Department of Transport and Panning [DTP] regularly receives suggestions for changes across the state’s transport network,“ she said.
“These are considered based on various factors including the extent to which a solution would improve safety or congestion, the number of road users travelling along the road,
the need to cater for vulnerable road users and historical safety records.
“Whilst DTP has advised there are currently no plans to implement changes at this location, feedback and input from Melton City Council will be considered as part of the DTP’s assessment and management of Victoria’s road network.
“In the meantime, DTP will continue to work with council, developers and other key stakeholders to review the Vineyard Road corridor.”
Mr McGhie said the school will provide Cobblebank students with the facilities and classrooms they need to succeed.
Ciar Foster has been appointed principal of Cobblebank Secondary School.
She has over 14 years’ experience in school leadership roles and has worked across three secondary schools, most recently as principal of University High School in Melbourne.
Cobblebank Secondary College will be a supported inclusion school with specialised facilities and capabilities designed to accommodate students with disabilities, the government said.
Details on how to enrol and enrolment boundaries will be published later this year.
Haskell and Architectus were appointed the project’s architects in October 2023, while ADCO Constructions was appointed as the builder in November 2024.
Deputy Premier and Education Minister Ben Carroll and Melton MP Steve McGhie at the site of the new Cobblebank Secondary College. (Supplied)
TAFE award for Jennifer
Federation TAFE’s outstanding achievers were celebrated at the 2025 Federation TAFE Awards for Excellence with 42 award winners announced at a gala event in Ballarat on Thursday27February.
Among the winners was Bacchus Marsh resident Jennifer Levy who was awarded the Middy’s Electrical Western Country Award. Jennifer studied Certificate 2 in ElectrotechnologyatFederationTAFE.
“Winning the Middy’s Electrical Western Country Award was such a great surprise. It’s a great feeling to know that my hard work and dedication to my apprenticeship has been recognisedandI’mverygrateful,“Jennifersaid.
Recipients across 30 categories were recognised for excellence in their chosen areas
of study and presented with certificates by industrysponsorsandcommunityleaders.
Federation University pro vice-chancellor VET & Pathways and chief executive TAFE DarrenGraycongratulatedthewinners.
“Congratulations to all the 2025 Federation TAFE Awards for Excellence winners and nominees. These awards celebrate the outstanding achievements, determination, and enterprise of our students, apprentices, trainees, and teachers, as well as the support of localemployersandindustry,“hesaid.
“Theawardwinnershaveshownexcellencein pursuitoftheirstudiesandchosencareers,and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make within their communities and industries.”
Briefs
Help name new tunnels
With the West Gate Tunnel project nearing completion, motorists won’t just be able to drive along the two new tunnels under the Yarra River, but have the opportunity to name them too. The state government is calling on Victorians to submit possible names for the two tunnels, with cash prizes on offer to those who enter before March 31. Anyone who submits a valid entry will go into the draw to win a $500 fuel voucher, while the winning entrant will have the opportunity to donate $2,500 towards a community organisation or charity. The final names will be revealed later this year before motorists drive through the tunnels. Details: westgatetunnelproject.vic.gov.au/ nameyourtunnels
Spirit of Anzac Prize
A dozen Victorian students have the opportunity to embark on a fully funded 11-day study tour to Gallipoli, Türkiye, where they will retrace the footsteps of the ANZACs. Veterans Minister Natalie Suleyman invited students in years nine to 12 to apply for the 2025 Spirit of Anzac Prize and gain a deeper understanding of Australia’s wartime history. Applications are open until Monday, April 28. Details: www.vic.gov.au/soap
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT
Web: starweekly.com.au
Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Jennifer Levy received her award from Middy representative Michael Eyssens.
Cannabis law change
A Caroline Springs mother has welcomed a law change that protects medicinal cannabis patients from automatically losing their licence if they test positive to the drug while driving.
As of March 1, the Road Safety Act was amended to allow magistrates to exercise sentencing discretion for drivers who test positive for the cannabinoid chemical tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) if they hold a valid prescription for medicinal cannabis and are unimpaired while driving.
Ms Davy, who takes medicinal cannabis to manger her multiple sclerosis and endometriosis, said the change was long overdue.
“I am so thankful we have a government that is willing to listen to the experts and patients when it comes to medical cannabis and driving,” she said.
“I have been a med can patient for five years now and this law change is so positive for me. I will no longer have to feel anxious getting in the car and going about my day.
“I used to be fearful every time I drove past a police car. As a single mother with multiple chronic illnesses my car is my lifeline. Thank you to the governments for the change in these outdated laws, it really is a no brainer.
“This is our prescribed medication, we have as much of a right as everyone else on a
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prescribed medication, to drive.“
Western Metropolitan MP David Ettershank, who represents the Legalise Cannabis Party, said medicinal cannabis users lived in fear of losing their licence under the old laws.
He said that prior to the amendment, even trace amounts of THC resulted in a six-month loss of licence for a first offence and Victorian magistrates had no power to intervene.
“From March 1 magistrates have the power to say, ‘You are a medicinal cannabis patient, you have provided your current script, and you weren’t impaired behind the wheel – you can keep your licence’,“ he said.
Pool a priority
Funding for the Plumpton Aquatic and Leisure Centre is the number one item from Melton council’s Growth Areas Infrastructure Contribution (GAIC) Fund.
The council at its February council meetingendorseditsgrantapplicationsfor the fund and the Growing Suburbs Fund.
The council is seeking $15 million for the aquatic centre to match the federal government’scommitmentfromtheGAIC fund. It will also put in an application for $5 million for the Shogaki Drive Road construction and Mount Cottrell Road signalised intersection.
Council documents said construction on the aquatic centre would get underway thisyearandrepresentsoneofthecouncil’s biggest capital works projects ever.
“It is recommended to apply for $15 millionundertheGAICprogramtomatch federalgovernmentfundingtomakethisa truly three level of government approach to deliver aquatic, leisure and allied health facilities,” council said.
“It is recommended to focus the application on seeking funds for a specific component of the facility – with a package of works to the value of $15 million focussing on water features including learn to swim pools, warm water pool and sensory aquatic space.
“PALC will provide critical skills required for water safety and health and wellbeing. The project is estimated to cost more than $100 million.”
ThecouncilsaidtheShogakiDriveRoad construction and Mount Cottrell Road signalised intersection has been in the infrastructure pipeline, with preliminary planning and concept plan completed.
Fiona Patten, David Ettershank, Alice Davy and Amity Mara have welcomed the Road Safety Act amendment. (Supplied)
MY PLACE
Tim Hawthorne is the vice president of community theatre group, Moonlite Theatre. He chats to Laura Michell about life in Moorabool Shire and the importance of community theatre groups.
What is your connection to Moorabool?
I have lived in Moorabool for the last 10 years, and have previously worked in Moorabool for nine years, currently volunteer for several local not-for-profit organisations.
What do you like about where you live?
We are so close to nature, we have platypuses in the Werribee River, we have the Werribee Gorge State Park and Lerdergerg State Park on our door step.
What, if anything, would you like to change about where you live?
The roads. The state of local roads are atrocious, and potholes need to stopped being refilled, and be properly patched, as the refills hardly last weeks.
How did you come to be involved in Moonlite Theatre?
I was performing at another community theatre company, with a fellow member of Moonlite Theatre, and they told me about the theatre company and went to their next performance of BaccChat.
How often does Moonlite Theatre stage local productions?
Moonlite Theatre stages two productions each autumn and spring, we also are invited to perform at BaccChat in December and often at retirement villages.
Why do you think community theatre groups are so important?
Community theatre groups are important as they strengthen connection with a community by bringing people together who are interested in the performing arts, provide opportunities for personal growth, and allow individuals from diverse backgrounds to express themselves and build relationships, all whilst having fun and continuing to learn and improve with other performers and theatre enthusiasts.
NEW TO BACCHUS MARSH, MELTON AND SURROUNDS
1. Does your Owners Corporation Manager keep the commission for the insurance they place with YOUR Owners Corporation money? On an insurance premium of $5,800, the manager can receive $850 which was received with your money.
2. Does your Owners Corporation Manager charge your Owners Corporation for disbursements? Around $60 to $70 per lot.
3. Does your Owners Corporation Manager visit your Owners Corporation at no charge? Hourly rates for property visits can range from $170 to $240 per hour. Owners Corporation Managers just charge for ‘extra’s’ and owners are unaware of what they are paying for.
1. Adept Body Corporate puts the commission into the Owners Corporation bank account by way of a reduction in the management fee invoice! I.E. on a $2,500 management fee, the Owners Corporation would only be charged $1,650 in management fees ($2,500-$850).
2. Adept Body Corporate does not charge disbursements as disbursements are tax deductable by the management business so why double dip!
3. Adept Body Corporate makes two (2) FREE property visits per year. Other visits at $125 per hour. Any invoices for property visits etc. are submitted to the Chairperson as an act of transparency by Adept Body Corporate
If your Owners Corporation Management contract is up for renewal, talk to Adept Body Corporate.
Brian Scadden info@adeptbodycorp.com.au
Phone 0497 997 911
How can people get involved with Moonlite Theatre?
We regularly meet once a month on the last Saturday of the month for play readings and theatre games, outside of that we regularly audition for our upcoming plays which can be found in local newspapers like the Star Weekly, on our website, and our
page.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I was an extra in a movie and worked with Sam Neil. I recommend anyone interested in film looking for an extra opportunity, as it is interesting to see how films are made.
Ready for their revue
musicworx is a community group that seeks to bring people together to nurture and share their creativity, passion and talent in all things musical.
Initslatestmusicaltheatrerevuetobeheldin SunshineNorth,musicworxisbringingseveral songs ranging from Maria’s iconic Do Re Mi in theSoundofMusictoWhenIGetMyNamein Lights from The Boy from Oz to the stage. musicworx founding member and director Simone Cremonasaid she and her team have chosen songs that are diegetic, where the characters are aware they are singing and dancing, or where the song itself describes the power of song and dance. The tagline for the revue is “We’re making a song and dance about it” and this revue will be a celebration of the uniting force of song and dance, she said.
The 37 performers ranging in age from seven to 30 come from all corners of the community, bring multifarious experiences in different modes of dance and song.
Ms Cremona explained that musicworx, which is based in Caroline Springs, and this musical theatre revue is about “giving an opportunity to people to be in engaged in the craftoftheatremaking,tosharethiswithother people and to develop experience and skills.”
The show is on March 15, with lunch and dinner sessions.
Audience members have the option to book theatre seating or cabaret table style sitting where they can enjoy a meal while watching the show.
Details: https://tinyurl.com/4jhsy2zc
Katya Ewing
The musicworx performers ready to bring musical theatre magic to the stage. (Supplied)
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Tim Hawthorne. (Supplied)
Changing birth control attitudes
By Kaija Du
I was put on birth control when I was 14, three years later after 250 consecutive days of menstrual bleeding and seven alternative birth control methods, I discovered that the drug wasthinningthewallsofmyuterus.
When I questioned how the hormones were impacting my body, my mother was ushered fromtheroomasdoctorsquestionedmeabout my sex life and shovelled me from test to test and clinic to clinic, searching for pregnancy andSTDs.
I brought up concerns with friends and discovered that many had already stopped taking birth control, using the ineffective ‘fertilityawarenessmethod’instead.
Theytrackedtheircycleandonlyparticipated in unprotected sex in the 15-20 days that the bodywasleastfertile.
According to the National Library of Medicine, fears of, or experiencing side effects is the main reason people stop taking birth control.
Unintended pregnancy often follows as they fail to find alternative contraception and continuetohaveunsafesex.
Turnedoffbythesideeffectsandambiguous chemical composition, the safe-sex movement isatriskofbecomingredundant.
According to Family Planning NSW, contraception use, and particularly the most popular method, the pill, decreased from 2008 to 2016 for woman aged 15-19. Women’s
Health Australia also found that women using no contraception as a method increased from 2013-2018.
Sitting in the many doctor clinics, gynaecologist waiting rooms and ultrasound bedsIconsideredthesamechoice.
Thenarrativesofweightgain,moodchanges, libido decrease, menstruation changes and insertion pain for permanent contraception deviceswereallveryreal,andopenlydiscussed on social media, but not spoken about in medicalcentres.
According to the National Health Institute, 83 per cent of women also found that their medical practitioners never mentioned the possibilityofsideeffects.
Many of my friends had been prescribed the drugfrom13-years-oldasaneasyandeffective
solution to acne. They have since complained that they were not warned of the impact of introduced hormones, particularly on young people.
Lower libido, mood swings and weight gain are rarely mentioned in medical centres and only briefly covered in the fine print of the A1 sized warning leaflet that comes with most birthcontrolpills.
Meanwhile, according to the National Institute of Health, 51.6 per cent of women reported experiencing mood changes and/or sexualsideeffectswhileonthepill.
In the search for health and wellbeing, new generations are questioning everything entering their body, including the small yellow pillstheyaretakingeveryday.
This change also means that people,
particularly on social media are much more open about their experiences, in sex, menstruation,menopauseandcontraception.
This means people like me can find informationtheyunderstand,createdbypeople withthesameneeds,desiresandexperiences.
Manyteenagerswanttoescapetheconfining walls of medical centres with their dismissals about the impact of menstruation and side effects of the pills and find information on socialmedia.
In particular, user-generated-content is preferred as creators are unafraid to share their real, and sometimes gross experiences. Although sometimes helpful, these platforms can falsely pose as medical information sources, providing solutions like ‘fertility awareness’ that is not a recommended or fool proofcontraceptionmethod.
On February 9, a $573 million women’s health package was announced by the federal government, and it is bringing the costs and access barriers for contraception down and willfundincreasedtrainingaboutmenopausal treatmentandcontraception.
However, improved accessibility will not improve safe-sex measures for those consciouslyavoidingcontraception.
The tried, tested and reliable contraception pill remains important, but largely unchanged inthelastfivedecades.
Women deserve to be listened to and they need relatable information about their hormonalchangesandchoices.
The impact of social media is unavoidable, but we need to fill the void that leads to disinformation and ensure women can gain transparent medical solutions and build a strongertrustbetweendoctorsandpatientsfor thefuture.
*Kaija Du is a University of Melbourne journalismstudent.
Kaija Du. (Attie Mohebali)
Preserving important memories
In an Australian-first, a Vietnamese museum and cultural centre will be built in Sunshine, sharing the stories of migration and refugee settlement. As Prealene Khera discovers, the museum will act as a “memory palace” for the Vietnamese community.
In December 1981, Thanh Tran found himself desperately clinging to the side of a boat with half his body fighting the pull of an unforgiving sea, and a machine gun aimed at the back of his head.
Between the palpable heat of the bullet whizzing past him, and the wet splintered wood grating his fingers – he could only think of escape.
That day, six years after the South Vietnam capital Saigon fell and the bloody protracted war concluded, Thanh was caught attempting to flee from the clutches of a country deeply engulfed in economic and political turmoil.
He was jailed for nearly four months and was only released after his father bribed authorities.
Between 1981 and 1984, Thanh tried to escape 21 times, resulting in two additional prison sentences.
Towards the end of 1984, he finally got away. He left the shores of Vietnam, shoulder to back, with 90 passengers corralled in a narrow damp boat slightly longer than a regular city bus.’
The salt in the wind was made sweeter by the promise of emancipation in the horizon.
During that turbulent journey, the engine of the not-fit-for-sea vessel malfunctioned, leaving the refugees stranded in foreign waters,roughly500kilometresfromMalaysia.
Theydriftedhelplesslyfor19days,enduring dehydration, grief, and the harrowing death of four young men.
Eventually,Thanhandhisfellowpassengers were rescued by a French ship and taken to Hong Kong where they were placed into refugee camps.
Seven months later, Thanh was on a plane to Australia.
“When I landed, I felt like a caged bird being released,” he said.
From 1975 to 1995, more than 1.4 million Vietnamese refugees, like Thanh, sought
freedom by undertaking a perilous journey on overcrowded and crippled boats, hoping for a better future in other countries.
In those 20 years, Australia took in more than 110,000 asylum seekers from Vietnam. Their arrival on safer soil translates to
hundreds of thousands of stories that have for the past five decades been restricted to oral retellings – until now.
The country’s first Vietnamese museum and cultural centre was recently given the green light to be developed in Sunshine.
Vietnamese Museum Australia president Tammy Nguyen with the model of the museum, at the location where the centre will be built.
(Ljubica Vrankovic) 460726_01
Once complete, it will preserve the stories of migration and refugee settlement.
The $20 million Vietnamese Museum Australia(VMA)willrecord,exhibitand educatecitizensthroughlivingartefacts, preservation and interpretation.
It will also inspire the future generations of Vietnamese-Australians, ensuring the refugee history isn’t lost to the passing of time, according to VMA president Tammy Nguyen.
“IreallybelievethattheVietnameserefugee story is a significant part of Australian history,” Tammy said.
“When the White Australia policy was abolished, the Vietnamese community were among the first beneficiaries of that, and their migration has really shaped multicultural Australia today.
“The one thing the Vietnamese people can carry with pride is our indomitable spirit and this museum will create a space where we can honour the stories reflecting that resilience.”
While the landmark institution will house incredible stories of the Vietnamese “boat people”, the centre’s facade is equally symbolic.
The museum’s design includes tall, red panelsresemblingbamboo,uniquelyarranged to reflect towering waves.
This distinctive exterior represents the fusion of Vietnamese culture, the arduous refugee journey by sea, and the iron-rich red soil of Australia.
“There’s been a lot of thought that’s gone into the design,” Tammy said.
“We wanted to have ties to our new
homeland as well, so the reddish colour is very important.
“The Vietnamese community is so grateful for the opportunity to have been accepted into the country – we wanted to incorporate that and honour that too.”
The VMA team has also put in extensive work to connect with a large number of community members to create the museum’s exhibitions.
“There’s a great urgency in gathering those oral histories as the first generation
‘‘ If we don’t know where we’ve come from, we can’t really think through where we’re going ’’ - Paul Bowers
photographs, diaries, records ofthejourney,thearrivaland of people’s subsequent lives and successes in Australia.
“Creating a museum isn’t just about what exhibits are shown in the galleries, it’s also about what collections are built for the future of ongoing research and study.”
The museum will not only tell the stories of how the community has grown from refugees needing a home to becomingavibrantpartofAustralianculture, but it will also point to where their future might lie.
“If we don’t know where we’ve come from, we can’t really think through where we’re going,” Paul said.
So, he added, this museum is a “memory palace” for the Vietnamese community, and a bedrock for posterity.
While it may be a critical reservoir of formidable accounts for succeeding generations, the promise of a
Vietnamese-centred cultural space in Sunshine is already making waves within young people in the community.
As a daughter of displaced refugee parents, for 25-year-old Liên Ta, the development of the museum has come as a pleasant surprise.
“Growing up there wasn’t a lot of acknowledgement of the Vietnamese community, so it feels like the museum lends us more legitimacy,” she said.
“Even though I was never a refugee, it is a part of my identity, because it is a big part of my parents’ identity, but it wasn’t something I could really explain to others.
“With this museum, people will be able to understand a part of me that even I couldn’t adequately put into words.”
Liên said, as someone who grew up feeling unseen, there was never the expectation to be understood.
No longer side-lined, the community’s stories will never again be out-of-sight or masked.
“To archive something is to see it as worthy of being remembered,” Liên said.
The ground-breaking ceremony on March 16 will mark the start of construction on the significant VMA centre, which is expected to open late
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A model of the museum. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 460726_03
Liên Ta is proud to have her community’s stories highlighted at the museum. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 461348_04
Vale,
Help shape the west’s future
Businesses and industry groups and which call Melbourne’s west home are being encouraged to provide feedback on a plan for the future of the region.
With the west of Melbourne’s population to reach one million in 2026, and 1.3 million a decade later, the West of Melbourne Economic Development Alliance (WoMEDA) is keen to understand business, industry and community priorities for the region.
WoMEDA chair Peter Dawkins said the organisation is hoping business and industry leaders will read its consultation paper,
Towards an Economic Development Strategy for the West of Melbourne 2025, and provide feedback.
“What should the infrastructure investment priorities be? With a growing capacity of skilled professionals, how do we encourage private sector investment to provide matched employmentopportunities?”MrDawkinssaid.
“Werribee Zoo is a world-class visitor attraction.Whatcouldbethewest’snexticonic visitor destination?
interested members of the community, from across the west on these and other important questions to help shape our strategy.”
WoMEDA will release its economic development strategy 2025 in August, which the alliance said would lay the groundwork for its future efforts to promote an adapting, economically viable and sustainable west of Melbourne”
The alliance said that to put a population of 1.3 million into perspective, a population of that size is bigger than the last Census night’s combined populations of Tasmania, Northern
Raha Abukar Noor, Milki Bashir, and Tifahri Basha pose with Eesha Elephant who will be appearing at the Little Africa Night Market in Footscray on March 15. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 460283_10
March brings mayhem in the west
March in Melbourne’s west is a vibrant mix of flavour and fun, with a list of events and attractions every bit as diverse as its famously multicultural community.
It’s fitting then that one of those attractions is the Victoria Multicultural Festival from March 21-23.
Taking place at Grazeland in Spotswood, the festival will offer flavours, entertainment and cultural performances from around the globe.
Flavours, entertainment and culture from around India will be featured at events celebrating Holi, the Hindu festival of colours which this years falls in March.
The biggest Holi event is the West Footscray
Festival of Colours at Barkly Village on March 22, while Bolly Holi will be held at the Point Cook pop up park on March 15.
BollyHoliispartofthebroaderKalaidescope Festival which also features a Pasifika event at Point Cook pop up park on March 23.
The west’s large African diaspora will be catered for at the Little Africa Night Market in Footscray on March 15, while Indonesian culture will be the focus of Gameland Square in Byron Plaza, Footscray on March 29.
Also in Footscray on March 29 will be Weird Out West II, featuring live electronic music in the Footscray Library Courtyard.
The free light festival, LIT, returns to
Wyndham Park in Werribee from March 27, while in the inner-west ,the annual Yarraville Festival takes place on March 23.
Arts events across the month of March include the inaugural Footscray West Writers FestivalfromMarch28-30,whiletheBrimbank Writers and Readers Festival will celebrate its 20th anniversary from March 13 to 22.
The Melbourne International Comedy Festival brings ‘Comedy Out West: The Final Showdown’toKindredStudiosinYarravilleon March 27 and the Brimbank Comedy Gala to the Bowery Theatre in St Albans on March 28. The month ends with the Avalon International Airshow from March 29 to 30.
Territory and the Australian Capital Territory. “Importantinvestmentshavebeenmadesuch as the West Gate Tunnel, the new Footscray Hospital and the Wyndham Law Courts, along with the expanding number of schools across the west,” WoMEDA said. “However with projected unabated population growth, a re-envisioning of the west of Melbourne is required. In particular the region will need far more local jobs for it population.”
Submissions on WoMEDA’s consultation paper can be made by Monday, March 31 via executiveofficer@womeda.com.au
Melton Hwy development
Maximise Group has acquired a significant 12-hectare landholding at 2231-2257 Melton Highway, Melton, whichitwilldevelopintoamajorgateway industrial and retail precinct.
Claudio Romano, managing director at Maximise Group, said the site, which was purchased for $44 million, presents the company with an opportunity to capitalise on the region’s strong population growth and increasing commercial demand.
“This purchase underscores our confidence in Melton’s future as a key economic hub. With strong underlying land value and a rapidly expanding local community, our vision is to create a dynamic industrial and retail precinct that will drive long-term employment and investment opportunities for the region,“ he said.
“Melton continues to emerge as a major growth area in Victoria, with significant infrastructure and residential developments supporting its evolution into a thriving commercial centre. Maximise Group’s latest acquisition aligns with the company’s strategy of securing prime sites with strong future potential.“
The site at 2231-2257 Melton Highway, Melton.
FEDERALELECTIONSURVEY
What issues matter most this Federal Election in suburban Australia?
As one of the largest publishers of independent community news in Victoria, Star News Group is conducting this simple survey to gauge community sentiment around the forthcoming federal election.
Please take 5 minutes to have your say and be part of this important conversation. The results of the survey will help us gauge the appetite of readers toward the forthcoming Federal Election and we will share results with our readers.
You can either fill in the survey below and email in or complete the survey online (Simply scan the QR code below)
1. What do you see as the single most important issue in the upcoming federal election?
8. Regarding immigration policy, do you believe the next government should:
Increase immigration
Reduce Immigration
Keep it about the same
9. At this point are you more likely to vote for:
2. Please select the top 5 of the following issues that are "Extremely Important" to you:
Electricity Prices
Climate Change Policies
Inflation (Cost of Living)
Health Services
Immigration and border control
National roads and rail infrastructure
Water infrastructure
Broadband interenet access
Please specify:
3. Please select the top 5 of the following issues that are "Least Important" to you:
Electricity Prices
Climate Change Policies
Inflation (Cost of Living)
Health Services
Immigration and border control
National roads and rail infrastructure
Water infrastructure
Broadband interenet access
Please specify:
4. Which is more important to you?
Cheapest electricity possible
Reducing carbon emissions
5. Do you support nuclear energy in Australia?
Yes No
6. Would you support a nuclear plant in your local area?
Yes No
7. Where would you most like to see a local increase in federal funding, and why?
Local hospitals
Local national highways
Local infrastructure project Defence
Other
Once completed, please scan or photograph your completed survey and email to:
A major party (Labor or Coalition)
A minor party
An independent
10. On a scale of 1 to 5, (5 the highest), how significant do you think the influence of social media is on public discourse and political decisionmaking in Australia?
1 2 3 4 5 Why?
11. On a scale of 1 to 5, (5 the highest), how concerned are you about global security currently?
1 2 3 4 5 Why?
12. On a scale of 1 to 5, (5 the highest), how concerned are you about housing affordability in your region?
1 2 3 4 5
13. In your opinion, how important is improved national road and transport infrastructure in your region?
1 2 3 4 5
14. What specific infrastructure projects do you believe should be prioritised in your region?
15. Are there any other local or regional issues that you feel are not getting enough attention in the federal election campaign? Please share your thoughts.
16. What age group do you fall into? 0-25 26-40 41-60 61-75 Over 76
First Name: Last Name: Daytime Contact Phone No:
Thank you for completing the survey. We really appreciate your support and value your opinion - Star Weekly Team
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
Hearing checks
The Hearing Australia bus will visit Melton Waves Leisure Centre on March 12, from 7.30am, and Woodgrove Shopping Centre from 1pm on the same day. Visit the bus for a free in-person hearing check.
https://www.hearing.com.au/
Melton Men’s Group
Melton Men’s Group meet every Thursday from 5-8pm at Arnolds Creek Children’s and Community Centre, 19 Claret Ash Boulevarde, Harkness. Focusing on senior men’s mental and physical wellbeing. Join the group for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including carpet bowls, pool, table tennis, cards and chess.
Trevor, 0404 494 649, or https://meltonmensgroup.home.blog/
Lights of Wisdom
The Bahá’ís of Moorabool invites you to Lights of Wisdom, a monthly event providing an opportunity to relax in a tranquil environment and reflect on inspiring themes. First Friday of every month, 7.30-8.30pm, at Lerderderg Library, Bacchus Marsh. This is a free community event open to all.
mgilsant9@gmail.com
Candle making
Learn to make your own soy candles at Melton South Community Centre, with workshop on Saturday, March 15 for kids from 10.30-11.30am, and adults from noon-2.30pm. Kids aged 5 and over can safely make their own candles with no flames or fragrance, and adults can create their own candles with the fragrance of their choice. The kids’ workshop costs $17, while the adult workshops costs $90/$85 concession.
9747 8576
First Aid course
Melton South Community Centre is offering engaging and informative First Aid courses on Saturday, March 29 for anyone seeking to obtain or renew a nationally-recognised certificate. Available one-day courses include HLTAID009, HLTAID011 and HLTAID012.
9747 8576
Melton Friends Group
An over-50’s singles friendship group for social catch-ups for dinners, movies, chats, walks and shows. Nothing but fun friendships,
Vera, 0406 493 734
Women Working Together
A program connecting women aged 50 above in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Melton.
9655 2131, or EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au
Over-50s Sunday games
Life Activities Club Victoria is running a games and cards afternoon every Sunday from 2-4pm at Kurunjang Community Hub, 35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. A newly-created friendly group which enjoys sharing a laugh and making new friends. Everyone is welcome because “life is better together”.
Deb, 9614 3017, or office@life.org.au
Darley Neighbourhood House
The Darley Neighbourhood House and Learning Centre is at 33-35 Jonathan Drive, Darley. It offers free and low-cost activities for all. There is a monthly repair cafe, a community pantry, a fortnightly chatty cafe and venue hire is available.
www.bit.ly/DNHnow, or 53674390
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Dr Kushagra Bendale, Neha Kolape and Samarth Turekar ahead of the Wyndham Holi Festival on March 15. (Attie Mohebali) 463750_01
National seniors meeting
On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more.
0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@outlook.com
Zonta club
Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. Meetings include guest speakers. Janet, 0421 080 923, or info@zontaclubofmelton.org.au
Melton Over 50s Social Group
Join a friendly group of people aged over 50 who enjoy each other’s company while attending events such as dinners, shows, dancing, cinemas and more. If you live in the Melton area and would like to meet new friends, in a welcoming group environment, this is for you.
Marlene, 0498 329 290
Rose carers of Maddingley Park
The group meets every Wednesday from 10am-noon at the Commemorative Rose Garden, Maddingley Park on the corner of Taverner Street and Grant Streets, Bacchus Marsh. They maintain the two rose gardens at the park. Volunteers are welcome and no experience is necessary to join .
Elaine, 0400 052 857 or Judy, 0428 463 538
Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club Meets on the first Thursday of every month
from 10am to noon at the Avenue Bowling Club on 254 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh.
Krystyna, bacchusmarshladiesprobus@ gmail.com
Community band
The Greater Western Community Band meets Thursdays from 7.30 – 9.30pm. Rehearsal venue is the Bridge Road Community Centre, Strathtulloh (Melton South). The band is available for events. Brass, woodwind and percussion players are always welcome.
Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582
Melton Valley Ladies Probus
Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets on the second Friday each month at 10am at Melton Country Club. New members welcome.
Ann, 0425 705 150
Fishing club
Didyabringyarodalong Angling Club of Melton and Bacchus Marsh is a fishing club that welcomes and encourages people of all ages, genders and fishing abilities to partake in enjoying the outdoors in a relaxing and friendly environment. The club holds monthly fishing competitions at various locations, fresh and saltwater. New members are most welcome. Upcoming events will be listed on this page.
Andrew, 0407 303 438, or Wayne, 0414 785 366
Melton Concert Band
Rehearsals are on Thursdays from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at the Bridge Road Community Centre, Bridge Road, Melton South. Musicians of any age who able to read Music are welcome to come along with their instrument (oboe, bassoon, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone,
tuba, percussion). Please contact the number provided if you are intending to visit.
0401 474 582
Cancer Support Group
MelMarsh Prostate Cancer Support Group is for prostate cancer patients and their carers and meets on the first Thursday of the month, from 12.30-2pm, at Melton South Community Centre. Attendees are encouraged as members share their journeys through what could be a very traumatic time of their lives. Explanations of medical terminology used in the treatment of this cancer are given in this group.
Grenville, 0412 741 865
Chatty Cafe Melton
Are you feeling lonely, isolated or just wanting to make some new friends? If so, Chatty Cafe is for you. The group meets on Friday mornings at 10am for delicious free coffee from Latin foods and wines at 10 Wallace Square, Melton.
Melton Trauma Teddies are seeking volunteers to assist with knitting, stuffing, or stitching teddy-bears that go to children in their time of need.
Jean 0412 931 498
Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh
Boomerang Bags Bacchus Marsh make reusable shopping bags from rescued fabric. They need people to cut, sew, iron and market our bags. The group meets on the first Sunday each month at Darley Neighbourhood House, 2-5pm.
https://63ec55b8628d6.site123.me/
Autumn fest is a Ballan favourite
Kicking off the colder weather and the beauty of fallen leaves will be the annual Ballan Autumn Festival, set for Sunday, March 16. The much-loved community event anticipates a cracking line-up of local talents and a colourful offering of foods of different cuisines.
A line up of local talent taking centre stage on the Moorabool Wind Farm Stage this year will include Five O’Clock Charlie, Ballan Community Choir, Lake Mist, Ballan Community Street Band, Great Chefs of Europe and the Studio C Dance School.
The Community Bank Ballan & District Grand Parade will kick things off at 10.30am. There will be over 100 stalls this year, many being local artisans, local groups and emergency services displays.
The food court will have 20 options of cuisines from all around the world including sweet treats.
Ballan Festival Association stall co-ordinator and vice-president Miranda Williamson is excited for the festival, with local traders already gearing up to welcome everyone and decorations are starting to pop up around town.
“The Ballan Autumn Festival is the biggest day of the year for our area and as a community we love sharing everything Ballan has to offer,” she said.
“The whole festival is organised and ran by localvolunteers,paidforbysponsorshipsand donations and culminates in a memorable family fun day.”
Gladys Barreta
A favourite community festival is back on Sunday, March 16, 9am-3pm. (Supplied)
Watch Willy Wonka in Werribee
Come and see Wonka in Werribee and you’ll be in a world of pure imagination on Saturday, March 15.
You won’t need a golden ticket to book a date with family and friends to chill out under the palm trees at Kelly Park between 5-8pm. A modern take on a timeless classic that can spread joy between generations is plenty of reason to spring out of bed.
While it may not be a pony or a squirrel, parents are encouraged to bring along their kids and treat them to a movie night. Screening during the autumn twilight,
moviegoers might be blessed with a violet sky that resembles Violet Beauregarde – and one can be assured it would be a much more pleasant presence.
Sometimes the good thing about a remake is that while the taste of each take may change, the essence of the story will never lose its flavour- and the formula of this story has been tested plenty of times.
There will be pre-movie themed entertainment to enjoy kicking off from 5pm, so pack your picnic blanket, grab dinner from a nearby business and settle in for an evening
of outdoor cinema fun.
While it is always good to refrain from watching too much TV – or eating too much chocolate – a movie and a few treats every once in a while doesn’t hurt.
Much like the conditions of visiting Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, children must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
Check out the full movie program: wyndham.vic.gov.au/moviesinthepark
Jaidyn Kennedy
Country music will come to the banks of the Maribyrnong on Sunday, March 30 whenSummerSoundsontheRivertakes place.
Held on the Maribyrnong River Reserve Landings between the Joseph Road apartments and the Heavenly Queen Temple, the second annual concert is supported through Maribyrnong council’s Love Your West grants program and is organised by local resident, Sue Kirk.
“We put on an afternoon of jazz last year with a couple of food trucks, a stage and some sound equipment,” said Ms Kirk of 2024’s inaugural concert.
“This year we’re running it again featuring country music as our live entertainment.”
Ms Kirk said she chose country music for no other reason than to offer something different.
“Next year it could even be heavy metal,” she laughed.
Rather than a full line-up, Melbourne country music supergroup, The Silver Saddles,featuringStKildamusicidentity Freg Negro, will play a number of sets from 4pm to 7pm.
“I just want to provide some entertainment in a fun and healthy environment,“ she said of her motivation for organising the low-key event, which is free of charge, free of alcohol and has a capacity for about 300 people.
“There’s plenty of space down there,” Ms Kirk said of the Reserve Landings venue.
“I wouldn’t want it so packed that people were crawling over each other.
“Come down, enjoy a picnic or the small number of food trucks and enjoy and meet your local community.”
Cade Lucas
One-man show explores identity and a heartfelt journey
Ras-Samuel’s move from Ethiopia to Australia as a nine-year old was underscored by abuse, homelessness, and crime — he is now portraying his immigration story through a captivating performance at the Bowery Theatre.
Through The Hyena, a one-man show, Ras-Samuel brings his gripping journey to the stage.
Baring his heart, he shares the deep connection he has with his grandmother, and reflects on his identity.
“The Hyena is a story that is loosely based on
my life experience,” Ras-Samuel said.
“It’s a love story between me and my grandmother.”
To develop the story, he worked in collaboration with dramaturg Bernadette Fam who he said was integral to making his ideas
“sharp and strong for theatre”.
In the performance Ras-Samuel grapples with the representation of immigrants in the media and how certain stereotypes impact their sense of self.
Hesaidtheshowisaboutfindingthebalance of how to coexist in the western world without
forgetting your roots
Hehopesthataudiencememberswillemerge from this one-act preview of the show feeling represented.
“I hope someone out there comes and sees this show and … can find the courage to share their stories.”
The Hyena will run at the Bowery Theatre in St Albans on March 14 to 15.
Details: creativebrimbank.com.au/ the-hyena
Katya Ewing
Enjoy another classic film at Kelly Park. (Supplied)
Ras-Samuel’s The Hyena is a gripping showcase. (Supplied)
Moorabool
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Australian golfer Ryan Peake qualified for the 2025 British Open by winning which recent tournament?
2. Which team finished on top of the ladder at the end of the 2024–25 WNBL regular season?
3. What number jersey was Michael Jordan once forced to wear in a 1990 game versus the Orlando Magic?
4. Hudson Young and Morgan Smithies most recently played for which NRL club?
5. Which state cricket team did New South Wales defeat to win the 2024–25 Women’s National Cricket League final?
6. What is the name of the fictitious professional basketball team at the centre of the Netflix RunningPoint?
Which men’s state cricket team did South Australia defeat to win the 2024–25 One-Day Cup?
Wrigley Field is the home of which Major League Baseball team?
Which men’s under-20 national team did Australia’s Young Socceroos defeat to win the 2025 AFC U20 Asian Cup?
Professional baseball player George Herman Ruth Jr. was better known by what name?
The Laureus World Sports Awards were established in which decade?
12. In an orthodox boxing stance which foot is placed in front?
13. In which sport do competitors refer to ‘catching a crab’?
14. In horse racing, the Triple Crown is awarded to a horse that wins which three Australian races?
15. And which races constitute the US Triple crown?
16. Which two AFL clubs will have new captains in 2025?
17. Who was selected by Collingwood as the No.1 pick in the 2024 AFLW Draft?
18. Which team won the first match between the Lakers and the Mavericks since the controversial trade of Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis?
19. Which Olympic sprinter is a contestant in the 2025 season of Australian Survivor?
20. In February, which Australian cricketer was referred to and subsequently cleared by the ICC over a ‘suspect’ bowling action?
21. Which city’s team name is based off the Mighty Ducks franchise in the NHL?
22. The Ashes originated from an Australian Test victory in which year?
23. Who won the Brownlow in 2024?
24. Which former Australian tennis player won the French Open in 2019?
25. How many individuals are in one artistic swimming team at the Olympics?
26. Andrew McQualter coaches which AFL football club?
27. In skateboarding, what does it mean to be goofy-footed?
given name?
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Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.
The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.
Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.
The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.
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28. The surname of which Australian historical figure is also a type of pool game?
29. WWE wrestler Drew McIntyre is from which country?
30. What was Muhammad Ali’s
Guineas, the Rosehill Guineas and
Marcellus Clay Jr.
Muhammad Ali
7
AfterHours is a
of which novel by Franz
2 Is Fitzroy Island closer to
or Cairns? 3 An American Anhinga is a type of what?
Who painted the oil composition Irises in 1889?
True or false: wicker baskets are made
Tucson travels on the hybrid road
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
Hyundai has thrown the switch to power up the Tucson, while dimming it down, stopping at hybrid systems as opposed going for full electric vehicle status.
In keeping with this are refreshed styling, plus an array of new and upgraded technology.
The popular medium SUV, in its fourth generation, has retained the 2.0 MPi petrol and 1.6 T-GTi turbo-petrol powertrains with a choiceoftwoorall-wheeldrive.Threetrimsare now on offer with an optional N Line package available across the range.
The Tucson has plenty of pull, boasting a 1900kg towing capacity, plus a first-in-class panoramic curved 12.3-inch infotainment/ driver display backed by wireless Apple CarPlay, Bluelink, connected car services and over-the-air remote software updates.
Hyundai has added a more dynamic look to the SUV with new bumpers and lighting, plus a refined cabin with steering column shift-by-wiredriveselectionandfloatingcentre console with boosted wireless charging pad.
The maker’s SmartSense safety system now has Highway Driving Assist, while a new head-up display presents important driving and navigation information. On test was the Tucson Elite Hybrid N Line front-wheel drive, selling for $48,600, plus on-road costs.
The new hybrids are covered by Hyundai’s five-year unlimited kilometre vehicle warranty and eight-year 160,000 kilometre high-voltage battery warranty, as well as Hyundai’s Lifetime Service Plan, Premium Roadside Support and satellite navigation updates.
Styling
The Tucson front has put on some style with a more aggressive grille, which conversely incorporates ‘hidden’ daytime running lights. LEDheadlampsfindaplaceinarobustbumper moulding underscored by a silver skid plate.
The picture is completed with a new bumper and LED taillights, an integrated ‘H’ emblem
in the rear glass and model-specific newly designed 18 or 19-inch wheels, depending on the model.
The test car carried the optional N Line pack consisting of exclusive 19-inch wheels, grille,frontbumperandslideplate,plusNLine badging. The rear sports a new rear bumper, skid plate and twin exhaust outlets.
Interior
The MY25 cabin has been given the once-over to especially appeal to the lifestyle active family. Focus are a steering column mounted drive-by-wire shift selector and floating centre console.
The Elite and Premium variants feature classy leather appointed seats for up to five, while the N Line pack goes further with black leather and suede, red stitching, plus exclusive N Line seat and steering wheel emblems. General storage includes large door pockets and a deep lidded console box. Cargo space runs from 582 litres to 1903 litres depending on the seats in use. The spare wheel is a space saver variety. A height and speed adjustable tailgate is operable via a button on the key fob or by simply standing at the back of the vehicle with the key.
Infotainment
A 12.3-inch touchscreen, introducing Hyundai’s next generation user interface, is standard across the 2025 Tucson range and comesupwithfourtimesthecomputingpower and 15 times the graphical processing power of the previous system.
A host of functions is led by wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, AM/FM/ DAB radio, Hyundai Bluelink, Bluetooth multiconnection, USB-C input, quick control (swipe down) menu, and over-the-air updates. Elite and Premium variants add Bluelink sat nav with turn-by-turn directions, live traffic updates, voice control, SMS playback and split screen function. .Bluelink connection is free for the first five years and includes automatic
collision notification, emergency call access, remote control climate and vehicle functions, among other things.
A similar-size configurable digital instrument cluster takes on a classic look with needle-style gauges. Hybrid versions can be customised to display a power gauge or tachometer. Depending on the drive mode.
Engines/transmissions
Tucson Elite N-Line test vehicle was powered by a 1.6-litre 4-cyl turbo-petrol/electric hybrid system, mated with a six-speed automatic transmission, driving the front wheels.
The petrol motor put out 132kW of power and 264 Nm of torque.
The electric motor contributed a further 47.7kW of power, making a combined maximum of 172kW. The latter made use of a lithium-ion polymer battery of 1.49kWh and 270 volts.
Safety
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Safety: 8/10
Thirst: 8/10
Practicality: 7/10
Comfort: 7/10
Tech: 7/10
Value: 8/10
The Tucson Hybrid has a five-star ANCAP safety rating on 2021 testing. The vehicle body features high-strength, lightweight construction to maximise torsional rigidity.
Active safety comes with Hyundai’s SmartSense suite, which includes forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, blind spot collision avoidance, safe exit warning, driver attention warning, high beam assist and smart cruise control.
A surround 360-degree view of the car and rear-viewmonitor,plusdistancewarning,area great help when parking.
Driving
Quick, yet quiet is the best way to describe the Tucson hybrid’s behaviour. The turbo dials up the power, while the electric motor plays its part in smooth going, as does the six-speed auto transmission.
Road noise on coarse road surfaces is the only intrusion into the cabin. The suspension coped with generally few complaints, while the brakes had their sharp side if rushed into action.
Gear selector is a twist-shift to the right of the steering column which takes some getting used to but clears the way for an uncluttered centre-console controls such as drive modes. These include Eco and Sport, of which the latter added sharpness all round to the drive. Smart mode switched the car between Eco and Sport to ostensibly maximise economy and performance, if that’s possible.
Hyundai claims combined urban/highway fuel consumption of 5.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The test vehicle came up with 4.6 litres per 100 kilometres on the motorway and averaged up to 9 litres per 100 kilometres during a week’s running around town.
Summary
It’s anybody’s guess whether buyers will take the hybrid route to Tucson electric vehicles. It’s a veritable traffic jam in this segment.
The Tucson front has put on some style with a more aggressive grille. (Pictures: Supplied)
Finals action is really started to heat up with several premiership teams crowned and many other sides sealing their spots in grand finals and in finals. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.
Finals, finals and more finals
Gellibrand snuck home against Caroline Springs. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 464005_12
It seemed fitting that Jodi Quinlan celebrated International Women’s Day with a win at Melton on Miracle Mile night.
Joining forces with the Rick Cashman trained My Uncle Stan ($18), Quinlan latched onto the three wide train down the back before the five-year-old unleashed a powerful finale to score by a neck from Blake Bolac in a mile rate of 1:53.8.
Quinlan admitted she had second guessed herself down the back straight.
“I thought that I had buggered up when I didn’t go in front of Herbie on Blake Bolac but I didn’t want to take the risk in case Kerryn (Manning) didn’t come out because if I had to go on my own I don’t win,” Quinlan said.
“The good thing that worked out in the end was that Herbie’s horse is strong and keeps going which suits this horse because if he gets left in front he has a tendency to ease off,” she said.
Quinlan was quietly confident of a forward first-up showing from My Uncle Stan who hadn’t graced the racetrack since September.
“His trials have been great and his first-up
run was great as well and I knew if he had a chance to have a crack at them late then they’ll know he’s there,” she said.
Quinlan created history when she became the first Victorian reinswoman to win a Miracle Mile partnering Sokyola to victory in 2004.
She has since been joined by Kate Gath who steeredCatchAWavetovictorytwoyearsago.
Later in the night Michael Bellman continued to edge his way through the ‘nervous 90s’ when he scored an upset win on the Craig Hoban trained Give Dave A Wave in the Mimosa Homes Pace.
Bacchus claims pennant
By Tara Murray
Bacchus Marsh had to dig deep to come away with the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant, division 2, section 1 premiership on Saturday.
Bacchus Marsh trailed for much of the match up against Keilor at Deer Park and was headed towards disappointment.
But Bacchus Marsh found something late and was able to come over the top of Keilor to win, 77 (6)-71 (2).
Bacchus Marsh’s Tanner Dickson-Arthur said it was a pretty special feeling.
“It’s pretty good to be honest,” he said not long after they claimed the title. “We were losing the whole day. Keilor jumped out of the blocks and had a massive lead.
“All our rinks trailed all early on.
“We bobbed up in front in the final four to five ends and that was the difference.”
Dickson-Arthur said the group realised duringthematchthatthiswasitfortheseason and they couldn’t leave anything out there.
He said that was when they started to turn things around.
“We had to have a crack now,” he said. “It
was no use saving them for next week if we didn’t have a game.”
Phil Minniti’s rink won 22-15, Glenn Sargent’s rink won 19-17 and Matthew Young’s rink won 21-19.
Simon Cornock’s rink lost 20-15.
Dickson-Arthur said the performance of Young against Keilor coach Mark Jacobsen was pivotal in getting the win.
“MarkJacobsenisoneofthegreatestplayers of all time,” he said. “He is a decorated player.
“He was beating Matt for most of the day. Ten ends to go they were in front. We were able to come back.”
Dickson-Arthur who came back to the club this season said they had set out a couple of goals at the start of the season which they had been able to achieve.
He said they always had a lot of belief in the squad.
They will return to division 1 next season. Last time Bacchus Marsh played in division 1, it came straight back down.
“Last time we had the talent,” he said. “We lost a couple of players and myself moved away.
“We have the talent to stay up in division
Sent out a $61 chance, Give Dave A Wave settled towards the rear in the running line however Bellman eased out onto the back of Plains In Heaven in a three wide trail with 700 metres to travel.
Give Dave A Wave reeled in Plains In Heaven half way down the home straight before surging clear to score by four metres from that horse with Spirit Of Pearl seven metres away third.
ThewinbroughtupBellman’s1999thcareer success.
Bellman concedes the pending milestone had brought with it a level of frustration.
“I’vebeencrawlingtowardsitthelastcouple of weeks so it will be good to get it out of the road,” Bellman said.
The accomplished Bellman has made it his niche landing long shot winners.
“I don’t know why, perhaps the punters think the driver has no ability and I tell people that horses can’t read the form so I drive them all like they have got a hope,” quipped Bellman.
John Dunne
Sports shorts
RDFL
Diggers Rest has signed Nathan Aidonis for the Riddell District Football League season. Aidonis is described by the Burras as a tight checking defender who has been a consistent feature of a strong Caroline Springs unit in the Western Football League. James Waters also crosses from the WFL, where he played at North Footscray. Waters has the ability to play both ends of the ground.
Ballarat NL
Melton has announced the first signings for its Ballarat Netball League A-grade side for this season. Jess Bartlett continues her long association with the Bloods and will be part of the side. Bartlett is seen as a highly respected player, coach, teammate and mentor at the Bloods. Victorian Netball League player Lucia Fauonuku joins the club. Fauonuku plays for the City West Falcons and has also represented Tonga on multiple occasions.
GDCA
and we were competitive last time. Some of those sides we were competitive against last time are now up in premier division.”
Dickson-Arthur said coming back and winning another premiership at his home club was pretty special.
Bacchus Marsh’s second side suffered a defeat in its grand final on Saturday to Hoppers, losing 87 (16)-67 (2).
Dickson-Arthur said they had been outplayed on the day, but had already secured the goal of being promoted up into division 3.
“Both our first and second sides have been promoted, it’s massive for the club,” he said.
“That is what we set out to do.
“When we joined the competition we had teams in division 2, 6, 7 and 8. Now we have teams in division 1 and 3, which is pretty good.
“Hopefully we can attract some more players.”
Bacchus Marsh was back in action on Sunday in the sectional finals. It defeated Ringwood by 12 shots to move into the next round.
Dickson-Arthur said before the match that anything now was a bonus.
A final round win was enough to seal a finals spot for Aintree in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield. Aintree finished with a one-dayer against Diggers Rest Bulla. Aintree made 156 before restricting the Burras to 7-129. Aintree finished fourth and will face Wallan in the first week of finals for a spot in the grand final. The Burras finished in sixth. Eynesbury, which finished bottom, had a bye in the final round.
A-League
It was contrasting results for Western United in the A-League competitions on the weekend. The women’s side travelled to Perth to take on Perth Glory and returned with no points as it lost 3-0. United remains in fourth spot, but has played more matches than every other side. On Saturday night, United had a 4-1 win against the Wellington Phoenix in a completely dominant performance. United now sits clear in second spot, five points behind leaders Auckland.
FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Matthew Young was a standout on Saturday. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 463998_18
My Uncle Stan. (Stuart McCormick)
Melton to take the positives, finishes with win
Melton hasn’t got the results it has been after but has found growth in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association south-west.
The Lions have just two wins for the season, but have shown some good signs especially after the Christmas break.
Lions coach Damien Costigan said they knew the results weren’t where they should be, but sees the positives.
“There’s been growth in the whole playing list,” he said, “We’ve excited about the future.
“We haven’t got the results but I think we’ve been in a lot of games at crucial times.
“We’ve been competitive and in really good positions and challenging top sides. We just aren’t staying in games for long enough.”
Costigan said youth and a lack of experience played part in not being able to play out whole games.
He said it would be a good learning experience for them to take forward.
The Lions will take plenty of positives out of the season with a number of younger players making their debuts.
Jhett Ramsay, Clarke Alaimo and Harry Scardamaglia all stepped up into the top sides at times this season.
Cavigan said getting Joel Mitchener back in the first XI had been really good as well, as had been getting games in the Lachlan Peterson.
The Lions sixth XI made finals, while their third XI needs things to go their way this weekend to play finals.
The Lions finished their season on Saturday against Taylors Lakes.
They produced one of their best performances of the season to get their second win on the board.
It was the bowlers that set up the win, bowling the Lions out for just 78 in 29 overs.
Brad Jones, Peterson, James Roberts and Mitchener took two wickets each.
The openers got through unscathed early on and allowed the Lions to get the runs with ease. They finished 2-80.
Mitchener top scored with 43.
Costigan said before the game that they were confident of getting the win.
“We’ve played some good contested footy since the Christmas break,” he said. “Hopefully we finish with a win and can take some momentum into the pre-season.”
Costigan said they would definitely look at adding a bit more experience to the squad for next season.
He said they were already talking to people.
‘It will add to the development of the youth,” he said. “Five of our seven junior sides are in finals. It’s pleasing that we have youth coming through. We need to add some experience to the list.”
Tara Murray
Royals are into granny
By Tara Murray
Melton South Royals are finally through to a Victorian Turf Cricket Association first XI grand final after many near misses.
Having been around the mark firstly in the Russell Pollock Shield and now the Evans-Clark Shield, the Royals have always fallen short of that last game of the season.
But not this season, with the Royals to face East Coburg this weekend in a two-day grand final.
“It’s nice to have our ones and twos in the grand final,” said Royals opening bat Blake Ivory. “The twos have been continually challenging and been in six grand finals in the past six years.
“It’s the first time in a long time for the ones to be in the grand final as well.”
The Royals semi final went down to the wire against Bellbridge on the weekend.
The Bears won the toss and decided to bat first.
They were bowled out for 173 in the 61st over.
Ivory said it wasn’t their best performance in the field.
“We were pretty confident in our ability,”
he said. “We didn’t bowl overly well, but to keep them to 170 on a good wicket was very pleasing.”
Keshara Lakshan took 5-40 off nearly 22 overs for the Royals.
The Royals then had a tricky period late on day one with the bat.
They managed to get through unscathed and finished the first day at 0-30, making the task a slight bit easier.
The focus on day two was making sure they got the runs, no matter how long it took.
Both opening bats went early on day two and they slipped to 4-72.
Praveen De Silva and Keshara Lakshan put on a good partnership to get their side back on track.
Three quick wickets saw the Royals go from 4-131 to 7-131 and turned the game back around.
The Royals had enough batting in the shed, making the runs with about seven overs remaining.
They finished 7-176.
“Bellbridge bowled really well,” Ivory said.
“We thought outside of us, they were the team to beat.
“We were rapt to get the win.”
Lakshan top scored with 42 not out.
The Royals will face East Coburg in the grand final, after it snuck home against Sunshine YCW in the other semi final.
Ivory said he was expecting a good challenge.
“We have a healthy rivalry with them,” he said. “In a grand final, you are never sure.
“We’ve earned our spot in the grand final and we will give it a red hot crack.”
Meanwhile in the Russell Pollock Shield, Burnside Springs United failed to fire against Pascoe Vale Central in its semi final.
Burnside won the toss and decided to bat in the warm conditions.
It never really got going as it was bowled out for 112 in the 43rd over.
Shohan Rangika top scored with 40 as just four players reached double figures.
Pascoe Vale Central knocked half of those runs off before stumps on day one, finishing the day at 1-60.
Pascoe Vale Central lost a couple of quick wickets when victory was in sight to give Burnside some hope but it was short lived.
It was a big win in the end for Pascoe Vale Central, which finished 3-113 in 64 overs.
Joshua Kelly took two wickets for Burnside.
It’s been a successful return to the Ballarat Highlands Bowls Region Highlands competition for Mt Cottrell.
The club had been playing in a metro west competition, but decided that the Highlands competition this season as it was a better fit going forward.
On Saturday, it played off in the division 3 grand final.
Selector Mick Matthews said the season had exceeded all expectations.
“The Highlands competition was short one team and they had a bye,” he said. “They asked us to come across.
“We’ve been really impressed with it and we’re really happy. We had some players, like my wife, who have started playing this year and have been able to hold their spots.
“Some of these players have never made a grand final ever, some have never played sport before.
Matthews said the decision to switch competitions in the off season was made to make things easier for the Thornhill Park-based club.
“We only have 24 members and in the metro competition there were four rinks and 16 players,” he said. “At times we struggled for numbers.”
“We were travelling to places like Williamstown and Port Melbourne, we had been in that competition for about nine years.
“In the Highlands competition, it’s only 12 aside and it means we’ve got plenty of players.
“We have to travel a bit further, but it’s less stressful.”
While it was a successful season in making the grand final, Mt Cottrell was unable to come away with the premiership.
Kyneton 3 was too strong, winning 64 (14)-55 (2).
Des Roche was the winning skip for Mt Cottrell, with his rink winning 26-20.
The club is hoping with the results this season would allow them to attract more players to the club for next year.
Kyneton claimed the division 1 title, while Woodend won the division 2 competition.
Tara Murray
Lachlan Peterson. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 448423_12
Joshua Sutton. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 464004_07
Burnside Heights fined, salary cap and points cut
Burnside Heights will have less player points and a reduced salary cap among penalties handedoutafteraplayerpaymentsdisciplinary committee hearing on Monday night.
The Essendon District Football League released a statement saying that the club had beeninbreachofthedivision2men’sallowable player limit of $83,300 by $20,560 in 2024. The committee, appointed pursuant to the EDFL player payment rules, heard charges laid against Burnside Heights arising from reports made by an integrity officer.
Under penalties, Burnside Heights’ total teampointslimitwillbereducedtofourpoints below the competition maximum for each of the 2025, 2026 and 2027 football seasons. The club’s allowable player payments limit will be reduced by 20 per cent for each of the 2025, 2026 and 2027 football seasons.
Burnside Heights has been fined $20,000, with$10,000ofthe$20,000suspendedpending compliance with the EDFL player payment rules for the 2025, 2026 and 2027 football seasons.
Burnside Heights will be subjected to a mid-season review of their allowable player payments and an end-of-season integrity review at the conclusion of the 2025 season.
Theleaguesaidsuspensionofthefinewasasa result of the club’s cooperation and admissions and the committee took into account in the club’s favour the full cooperation of the club’s new executive committee.
“Burnside Heights was completely honest and cooperative throughout the integrity review and disciplinary committee hearing, which is appreciated by the EDFL,” league chairman Ian Price said.
“Ourclubsmustcontinuetounderstand,and adhere to, the league’s rules and regulations, and we’ll continue to support and educate our clubs in providing a fair and vibrant competition.”
Burnside Heights also released a statement on its social media following the decision.
The Club said it is extremely disappointed it has found itself in this position and apologises to its members, fans, sponsors and the wider Bears family.
“The Bears have been built on foundation of hard work, development and a spirit of fair play, we have not met these expectations in this instance“ the statement said.
“The club has fully cooperated with the integrity review process and is fully committed to working with the EDFL into the future to ensurewearefullycompliantwithallrulesand
The Bulls go into finals
By Tara Murray
Bacchus Marsh will play finals for the first time in the Ballarat Cricket Association after a thrilling final round win against cross town rivals Darley.
Itwasavirtualeliminationmatchinthefinal round,withtheBullsandLionsneedingtowin to play finals. A couple of outright results was theonlywayoneofthoseteamswouldn’tfinish in fourth.
Bulls captain-coach Sam Crea said it was pretty exciting for the club to achieve playing finals in only their second year in the competition.
“The club has long term aspirations and for usinoursecondyear,withthechallengeswe’ve had through this year it is pretty special.
“We know there is still work ahead of us. We still have to face Mt Clear this week.”
Crea said the script couldn’t have been written much better with the two local rivals facing each other in the final round with finals on the line.
Day one of the match was all about the bowlers.
The Bulls had been bowled out for 125, with
the Lions resuming on Saturday at 4-35.
Crea said the wicket flattened out during the week and was always going to be a bit more batter friendly.
“We toiled away,” he said. “They had a couple of guys working hard and batting really well.
“We knew we would create six chances, We dropped a couple of chances though.
“We had then 8-50 and then dropped two catches in an over. It should have been 9-50.
Jarrod Burns and Madushanka Ekanayaka fought hard for the Lions to get them within sight of the target.
Crea said the pair didn’t look for boundaries, just tried to tick the scoreboard over.
Theyputon42beforeBurnsfellfor42,which had come off 153 balls.
The game then turned again.
“We gave Will [Lalor] a couple of overs and he bowled Jarrod with a nice ball,” Crea said. “He then bowled two full tosses and was taken out of the attack.
“The game had everything. We knew we would create another one of two chances and we stuck to that belief.”
Ekanayaka and skipper Ben Longhurst got the score past 100 to give their side some hope.
regulations required for participation by AFL Victoria and the EDFL.
“Since being elected last November, the new executive leadership and committee have been focusing on ensuring the club has a successful, engaging and viable future, a club that once again provides an opportunity for players of all ages and backgrounds to develop into the best players and people they can be, in a safe, inclusive and family friendly environment.
“Theclubhasreviewedanumberofoperating policies and guidelines, making the necessary changes to ensure we correct the failings of the past and never find ourselves in this position ever again.
“To all the Bears family, we thank you for your ongoing support and we will make you proud to be a Bear once again.”
Tara Murray
Storm and Falcons out
A total of nearly 300 wasn’t enough for Sydenham-Hillside in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division.
Hoping to make the grand final for a second straight season, the Storm faced the difficult task of knocking of reigning premiers Deer Park in the semi finals on the weekend.
The Storm batted first on Saturday and after losing a couple of early wickets, seemed destined for a big score.
Skipper Anthony Alleyne was the key in the innings, making 133 to help guide his side past 200.
The Storm’s progress halted late in the piece as it finished day one at 9-291.
The Lions batters made the most of a flat wicket on Sunday and had no trouble getting the runs, making them with more than 15 overs to spare.
Alleyne was the only multiple wicket taker, taking two.
The Lions now face Yarraville Club in the grand final.
In the Roy Picone Shield, Caroline Springs lost a thriller to Gellibrand.
The Falcons made 181 on day one of the match with Mohammad Mehdi top scoring with 62 at the top of the order Daniel Le-Paez (30 not out) and Supun Perera (39) provided some late runs to help the Falcons post a defendable total.
That dream ended on 106 when Longhurst fell to give the Bulls the win and a finals spot.
Burns top scored for the Lions, while Ekanayaka made 20 not out off 87 balls.
Crea took four wickets for the Bulls with Shanin Silva taking three.
The Bulls finish in fourth spot and the Lions slip to sixth behind Golden Point.
The Bulls will face Mt Clear this weekend in a two-dayer with a spot in the grand final on the line.
Crea said facing Mt Clear would be a good challenge.
“Eastern Oval is a good track,” he said. “They’ve been the best side all season, the most consistent.
“Theybeatuscomprehensivelyinaone-dayer before Christmas. People might doubt us, but we know what we are as a club and we can match it with the best.”
Crea said across the club they had shown somereallystrongformwithanumberofother sides playing finals.
It will be a big weekend for Bacchus Marsh, with its women’s side hosting Macedon in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association women’s league grand final.
It was a chase that would go down to the wire.
Gellibrand was in trouble at 7-116 before skipper Paul Hetherington and Brayden Macdonald put on nearly 50 for the eighth wicket.
The Falcons managed to break that partnership and get another wicket. They were unable to get that last wicket though, as Gellibrand finished 9-183.
Jermaine Levy took three wickets for the Falcons.
Anthony Alleyne. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 463997_20
Bacchus Marsh will play finals. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 462439_15
