Get Melton moving: Council
By Laura Michell
Mt Atkinson resident Gaurav Sharma’s daily 25-kilometre commute to the city by car takes him up to 90 minutes.
Heandhiswifewouldliketotakethetrainto work, but doing so is fraught with challenges.
“We struggle with the train from Rockbank stationduetolongtraveltimes,unsafeparking, and overcrowding,” Mr Sharma said.
What should be a 10-minute journey by car to the train station, can take up to 30 minutes, with another 15 minutes to find parking. Overcrowded trains mean the couple is often unable to board and have to wait 20 minutes for the next one, adding more time to their commute.
Mr Sharma is sharing his story as part of Melton council’s ‘Let’s get the City of Melton
Moving’campaign,whichiscallingforfurther federal investment in the municipality’s rail and roads.
Council launched the campaign this week, calling on all major parties contesting the May 3 federal election to commit to additional investment as a matter of priority.
Council said the campaign’s top priorities are the electrification of the Melton rail line and new stations at Mt Atkinson, Thornhill Park and Calder Park.
Also on the list are urgent upgrades to key roads including Hopkins Road, Melton Highway, and the Palmers Road Corridor north of the Western Highway (including Robinsons Road, Westwood Drive and Calder Park Drive).
Mayor Steve Abboushi said with the population of the City of Melton set to almost
doubleinthenext30yearstoasizegreaterthan Canberra, investment in adequate transport infrastructure needed to happen now.
“More than 70 per cent of our workforce travel outside the City of Melton to work every day, our major arterial roads are already heavily congested and our rail services at capacity,” Cr Abboushi said.
“At the rate we are growing, we can’t afford to wait any longer for this critical investment.”
So far, Labor and the Liberal Party have both committed $1 billion to upgrade the Western Highway, while Labor and the state government have announced $300 million to upgrade the Calder Freeway’s Calder Park Drive diamond interchange.
Liberal leader Peter Dutton has also announced plans to cut funding for upgrades to Sunshine station if the Coalition wins
government, which council said would put the electrification of the Melton line at risk.
Council said electrifying the rail line and stations at Mt Atkinson, Thornhill Park and Calder Park would allow for a 27 per cent increase in public transport usage and also result in 12,000 fewer cars on the road each day.
“There’s a lot more investment needed for our community,” Cr Abboushi said.
“Our residents are spending more time travelling than what is needed, meaning less time spent with family and friends.
“Our growing community needs efficient, frequent public transport to get our them, where they need to be sooner and safer.”
For more federal election stories, turn to pages 4 and 5.
Melton mayor Steve Abboushi (centre) with councillors Brandi Morris, Julie Shannon, Lara Carli, Kathy Majdlik, Phillip Zada and Sophie Ramsey at Rockbank station. (Supplied)
Melton line electrification ‘at risk’
By Laura Michell
Reallocating funding for upgrades to Sunshine station to projects elsewhere in Melbourne risks future plans to electrify the rail line to Melton, Melton council and the chair of LeadWest havewarned.
On Tuesday, April 1, federal opposition leader Peter Dutton and opposition infrastructure spokeswoman Bridget McKenzie announced that a Coalition government would redirect $2 billion the federal government committed for upgrades at Sunshine station and $2.2 billion committed for the Suburban Rail Loop to other rail and road projects.
These include duplicating Donnybrook Road and planning for the extension of the Upfield train line in the north and extending the Frankston train line to Langwarrin and Baxter in the south-east.
Mr Dutton and Ms McKenzie said the Coalition would also provide an extra $1.5 billion for Melbourne Airport Rail, with the state Liberals to provide $1.5 billion if elected in 2026.
They said upgrades at Sunshine station to connection regional and suburban passengers totheairportwouldbefundedundertheextra $3 billion, however, they have not committed to funding other improvements at Sunshine which would pave the way for electrification
of the train line to Melton.
LeadWest chair and Melton councillor Phillip Zada said removing any funding from the upgrade to Sunshine station would have a “detrimental effect”.
“If they take these funds away, it risks the electrification [to Melton], airport rail and freight lines,” he said.
“With the growth in the west, we need the electrification to Melton.”
Cr Zada said Mr Dutton and Ms McKenzie needed to justify reallocating the funding and talk to the community to understand why the upgrades are so important, adding that Melton residents have been waiting a long time for upgrades to their rail line.
Creekside buskers strike a chord
Bringing the best of street performances to their school grounds, students from Caroline Springs’ Creekside College participated in an energy-filled busking event to raise money for an important cause on April 3.
Held each year for nearly two decades, Busking Day is the school’s annual fundraiser fortheRoyalChildren’sHospital’sGoodFriday Appeal.
Creekside College teacher Katia Gerovasilis
said the event was organised by students to make a difference in the lives of kids the hospital assists.
“This is an important event in our school calendar because it’s a great opportunity for us to contribute positively to our community,” she said.
“It’salsoalotoffunforbothstaffandstudents and a great way for students to showcase their artistic performance talents.
“Students work with their teachers to create a festival-like atmosphere by setting up a range ofstalls,activities,gamesandperformancesfor the school community to enjoy.”
This year the school is hoping to raise $8000 for the hospital, and Ms Gerovasilis said the community could help students and teachers reach that goal by donating online.
Details: fundraise.goodfridayappeal.com. au/fundraisers/creeksidek9college/gfa
“They don’t understand what it means to be in the west,” he said.
Melton mayor Steve Abboushi said the full upgrade of Sunshine Station is required to create more capacity and platforms for additional services for Melton.
“We are strongly calling for a commitment and timeframes for the electrification of the Melton rail line. Our growing community deserves equity in access to efficient, frequent public transport,” he said.
“With half of our residents lacking access to publictransportwithinwalkingdistance,and an additional 45,000 commuters projected over the next 30 years, electrification of the Melton rail line needs to happen as a priority.”
Troups Road upgrade complete
Upgrades to Troups Road South in Mount Cottrell have been completed, with works undertaken between Boundary Road and Greigs Road.
The project included upgrades to drainage and driveway culverts, road widening and sealing the road surface as well as the installation of new signage and line markings.
Melton, mayor Steve Abboushi said the works have transformed a road that often turned muddy during wet weather into a road that provides another option for vehicles to travel around the city and beyond.
“We would like to thank local residents and the community for their patience while we completed these much-needed road upgrades,” Cr Abboushi said.
Resident Kate Williams said the upgrade to the road is a great step forward for the community which needed to be done urgently for the safety of drivers and residents.
“It needed to be done, it was a nightmare with cars getting damaged daily, having a dirt road in the middle of a metropolitan area is not a good idea,” she said.
“Since its opened, we are really impressed on the time saved on being able to detour from Hopkins Road and having multiple ways to get to Werribee.
“It took a while to get it done but a lot of the community will be happy council took action on it.”
Cyclists get ready to ride a lucky loop in Mt Atkinson
The ultimate cycling event, Lucky Loops, will be back next month, inviting seasoned riders, bike enthusiasts, and keen cyclists to the west.
The non-competitive event boasts a vibrant and multicultural spirit where people can ride theirbikeandparticipateindifferentcategories for prizes.
This year’s Lucky Loops will be held on Sunday, May 4, at the Edmund Rice Community Services in Mt Atkinson. Program co-ordinator Michael Naismith said the event is designed for those new to bike events but also offers enough thrills for those who have participated in bike events before.
“It’s called Lucky Loops because every time
youcompleteashorterloop,yougointoalucky dip and you can do another lap and try your luck again,” he said.
“It’s a rare opportunity to have a bike event in the outer west. For families and individuals who are interested in a bike event, it is welcoming and comfortable for people of all levels to participate.’
Participants will be able to choose their own distance to compete at, which will range from two kilometres to five kilometre loops.
ThisisthesecondyearLuckyLoopshasbeen running with the first event received very well, especially by the younger crowd.
Mr Naismith said there will be a new section
with new obstacles this year which will be an exciting addition to the event.
“The event offers something that you don’t find in the outer west of Melbourne and we’re trying to do it in a way that makes the diverse cultures we have in the west feel welcome to attend,” he said.
Prizesonthedaywillincludebikeequipment, accessories, clothing, LEGO, chocolate, lollies, and other toys, with the event supported by Stockland.
Details: https://events.humanitix.com/ lucky-loops-ngvenk85
Gladys Barreta
Lucky Loops is the ultimate cycling event, crafted to bring together the vibrant multicultural spirit of the west. (Supplied)
Creekside College students Bentley, Lily, Kayla and Jacob rocked the stage. (Damjan Janevski) 469709_01
Calder funding promised … again
By Laura Michell and Prealene Khera
After withdrawing funds for the Calder Freeway in 2023, the federal and state governments have put the project back on the agenda, with a fresh promise to invest $300 million towards its repair.
The funding will be used to build a long-awaited diamond interchange at Calder Park Drive, which once complete will improve safety, reduce congestion and provide better access.
The proposed funding comes nearly two years after the federal Labor government cancelled the $50 million promise made by
the previous Liberal government in 2019.
The project was axed by Infrastructure Minister Catherine King in November 2023 following an infrastructure spending review.
At the time, Ms King said it was not realistically going to be delivered with the available funding, had made little to no progress over a significant amount of time, and did not align with national priorities.
The decision was followed by the state government revealing it would indefinitely pause funding for the freeway upgrades.
When it is built, the new interchange will improve access on and off the Calder Freeway.
HawkeLaborMPSamRaesaidtheupgrade would improve safety and congestion on the freeway.
Melton council has welcomed the funding, noting the road is a key access point for Hillside, Taylors Hill, Fraser Riser and Caroline Springs residents.
Council said traffic at the Calder Park Drive intersection often banks back onto the freeway during peak times, increasing the chance of accidents.
Entry to the freeway is currently one way, with drivers having to travel north-bound and perform a U-turn and merge into fast-flowing traffic to travel city-bound.
Autmn school holiday fun in Melton
As school holidays kick-off, families in Melton will have plenty of entertainment to choose from with council rolling out a jam-packed program.
Activities for all age groups are on offer this holiday season at centres across Melton. Some of the highlights include a stop motion studio event in Caroline Springs where participants aged nine to 12 will be able to use characters, props and a bit of movie magic to bring their story to life, one frame at a time.
There’s also a circus skills workshop for the more acrobatically inclined.
As part of the sessions, children will have the opportunity to learn a range of circus tricks including hula hoops, spinning plates, flower sticks, juggling and parachute activities.
Designed as an introduction to the exciting world of circus, this workshop is tailor-made for children of all abilities, offering a wide range of engaging activities.
Additionally, there’s some activities
Melton South man jailed
A 51-year-old Melton South man has been sentenced to four months’ jail after pleading guilty to three charges of animal cruelty.
According to the RSPCA, the man faced the Sunshine Magistrates Court on March 24.
The man owned a Staffordshire Bull Terrier with a non-surgically docked tail and was also suffering from skin and ear infections, the RSPCA said.
The animal was seized and transferred to RSPCA Victoria for veterinary assessment, care and rehabilitation.
RSPCA Victoria’s treating veterinarian said the animal was suffering and in pain.
“[The dog’s] tail was severed with scar tissues and scabbing over the stump…[and] damaged tail vertebrae likely caused by inflammationandinfection,”theveterinarian said.
“Docking the puppy’s tail by means of strangulation by application of a rubber band would cause great pain and suffering… and is inhumane.
“The tail would have been extremely painful for days [to] weeks after the band was initially applied.”
The man was sentenced to four months’ jail, to be served concurrently with separate offences unrelated to animal welfare.
The relevant offences are covered under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.
Anyone found guilty of cruelty offences can face fines of up to $49,397.50 or 12 months’ imprisonment.
Anyone with concerns about the welfare of animals is urged to make a report to RSPCA Victoria at rspcavic.org/cruelty-report/ or by calling 03 9224 2222.
Mayor Steve Abboushi said it was fantastic to see the federal and state government working in partnership to make roads safer for Melton residents.
“Together with Brimbank City Council, we have been advocating for a full diamond interchange at Calder Park Drive to provide safer access for our residents on and off the Calder Freeway,” he said.
“Along with the rail level crossing removal on Calder Park Drive by the Victorian Government, this new interchange will help improve traffic flow, to and from the freeway, making entering and exiting it much safer.”
Safety works for blackspots
Two known crash sites in Melton and Mount Cottrell will undergo a facelift to improve road safety thanks to new funding.
Under the Black Spot Program, the federal government has invested over $885,000 towards improvements on Greigs Road and Mount Cottrell Road, as well as Exford and Mitchell Roads.
A roundabout will be installed at the intersection of Greigs Road and Mount Cottrell Road, and lanes will be realigned along Exford Road to provide a channelized right-turn short lane into Mitchell Road.
Regional Development Assistant Minister Anthony Chisholm said removing black spots across Australia’s road network is a major part of the ongoing commitment to work with state and territory governments to fund the priority road safety works they identify.
planned for older children through the Young Communities initiative.
There’s a range of free and low cost fun including a cooking class, where kids can bring their cooking skills and organisers will provide the ingredients.
A sketch class is also available for Caroline Springs kids interested in learning the fundamentals of digital art.
For the full list of activities, visit: www. melton.vic.gov.au/News-Media/Autumnschool-holiday-fun
“We recently announced a significant boost to road safety funding, which includes a commitment to increase annual Black Spot Program funding to $150 million starting next year,” Mr Chisholm said. “The program is also drivenbycommunities,forcommunities. So, I encourage anyone who knows of a Black Spot near them to consider nominating that site for investigation.”
Melton mayor Steve Abboushi said council thanked the federal government for its commitment to safety improvements on local roads.
“As our population continues to grow and more pressure is put on our roads, investment in safety improvements is critical to ensure all road users can move safely around our city,” he said.
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One of the activities kids will be able to participate in these holidays is the stop motion workshop. (Supplied)
Where curiosity comes alive
Adventure through Kyabram Fauna Park’s expansive wetlands and bushlands, and explore a stunning array of birdlife and unique native animals.
Relax at the Fauna Park Café with our playful meerkats, or enjoy a BYO BBQ while the kids are entertained at the playground.
Kids visit free on weekends, public holidays and Victorian school holidays.* *zoo.org.au/kids-visit-free
Lion cub birth sends a roar west
By Jaidyn Kennedy
Werribee Open Range Zoo roared with pride when it announced the birth of its future king or queen of the jungle.
The lion cub was born on the evening of Sunday, March 23 to seven-year-old mother Asali and eight-year-old father Sheru.
The zoo’s African river trail keeper Kieralie Braasch said the birth is incredibly exciting and the little cub is already hitting some very impressive milestones.
“The cub appears to be embracing its solo life without sibling competition, as it is thriving in
both size and development,” Ms Braasch said.
“Cubsareusuallybornwiththeireyesclosed for three days and don’t take their first steps for 15 days; however, this cub amazingly had its eyes open at the three-hour mark and was on the move after just 15 hours.”
This was the first time a single cub has been born in the zoo’s 41-year history, with most litters containing two to four cubs.
MsBraaschsaidbothmumandcubaredoing extremely well and developing their bond.
“As with any birth, it was a sleepless night as keepersandourzoovetsobservedAsaligointo labouronremoteaccess24-hourdencameras,”
Spudfest back in town
A weekend to celebrate the impressive amount of spuds grown in the region will take place at the Great Trentham Spudfest that is kicking off in just under a month.
This year marks the 17th edition of the iconic festival, which has brought together local potato growers, artisans, musicians, food vendors, and history to showcase the region’s finest offerings.
The celebrations are set for the weekend of May 3-4 and will be held in the historic town of Trentham and the surrounding districts.
The 2025 program for Spudfest includes a Street Fair held in the heart of town, the Spud Olympics, a Great Spud Scavenger Hunt, a gnocchi-making class, and more.
Festival co-ordinator Kyle Theobald noted that Spudfest remains a largely free event, with a selection of specially curated activities requiring tickets.
“On Saturday, our legendary Street Fair
is held in the heart of Trentham, with four main precincts packed full of spud food, fresh regional produce, our local makers market, live music, and, of course, the fabulous Spud Olympics. It’s a great carnival atmosphere,” Mr Theobald said.
This year will feature two new events: the inaugural Digging Deep: Cooks in Conversation on Sunday morning, featuring award-winning cookbook author and TV host Alice Zaslavsky, local chefs Tony Tan and Liam Downes, and moderator Jacinta Parsons at The Mechanics in Trentham. Additionally, there will be an exclusive four-course feast celebrating the humble Trentham spud at the famous Du Fermier restaurant, hosted by local chef, author, and farmer Annie Smithers, on Saturday evening.
Farmer Jenna Bruton will be selling spuds at Spudfest. (Wild Little Swallows Photography)
Volunteer tin rattlers wanted
The countdown is on for the 2025 Good Friday Appeal and Uncle Bobs Club (UBC) is looking for volunteers to assist in Melton, Brimbank and the northern suburbs.
UBC, a long-standing charity, was founded in 1942 to benefit the lives of children with medical needs in Victoria.
What started with four men donating a “bob“ (a shilling) at the Riversdale Hotel in Hawthorn has grown into a large network of volunteers and fundraising efforts across Victoria.
UBC fundraising and volunteer manager Stacey Ramadge said UBC has been involved with the Good Friday Appeal since 1942, raising money for children’s health, wellbeing, and local paediatric wards.
The charity is calling out for volunteers to
Ms Braasch said. “But Asali is showing all the positive maternal behaviours keepers would hope to see from a first-time mum – she is groomingthecubandtheyarereallysnuggling uptoeachother.“Thecubisalsodrinkingmilk ferociously – it cannot stop!”
Forsix-to-eightweeks,Asaliandhercubwill bond in a private den, away from public view to mimic wild behaviour where a lioness would allow a cub to grow before introducing it to the pride.
The lion cub will have its first health check to determine its sex and will be named in the coming weeks.
Council is inviting passionate, community-minded people to express their interest in joining one of the following Advisory Committees:
Arts and Culture
assist in a variety of ways, this Good Friday, including intersection collections, raffles, sausage sizzles, counting room assistance, and at the annual Kids Day Out event held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
“Our main focus is not only to support the Good Friday appeal but to raise funds in local areastosupportchildren’shealthandwellbeing and paediatric wards in local hospitals,“ Ms Ramadge said.
Ms Ramadge said volunteers need to be 16 yearsorolderandhaveaworkingwithchildren check, while counting room volunteers must also have a police check.
Anyone interested in volunteering should call 9335 6300 or visit: ubcvic.org.au
Katya Ewing
Disability
As a committee member, you’ll use your leadership and relationship-building skills, with relevant expert and communtiy knowledge, to provide advice and recommendations that reflect our community’s needs. Applications close 5 pm Monday, 21 April 2025
For more information, or to apply, visit melton.vic.gov.au/ advisorycommittees or call 9747 7200.
The Uncle Bob Club volunteers Paul Etherington, John Traill, Stacey Ramadge with her daughter Sadie, 4, and Linda Cron. (Damjan Janevski) 467572_01
Lioness Asali with her first cub. (Supplied)
A pregnancy cut short
Luci Hadler gave birth to her daughter Coco only 29 weeks into her pregnancy. She spoke with Jena Carr about the challenges of giving birth prematurely.
Everything about Luci Hadler’s pregnancy over three years ago was going normally until she hit the 29-week mark.
The 43-year-old didn’t initially have many issueswithherpregnancy,despitebeingclassed as high-risk due to her age of 39 at the time, until events led to the early birth of daughter Coco Deppeler on May 10, 2021.
“It was a completely normal pregnancy, and I was healthy and not sick at all. I was perfectly fine...untilmywaterbrokeat29weeksandfive days into my pregnancy,” Luci said.
“It was a Saturday morning, and I went straight into hospital … I still had no signs of labour, and I felt perfectly fine, but I was hospitalised immediately after my water broke.
“The same thing happened with my older daughter, who was born nine years earlier. I was 36 weeks pregnant when I had her, so it was a much safer pregnancy. So, I definitely knew what was going on.”
After being hospitalised in Geelong, Luci was transferred to Mercy Hospital for Women in Heidelberg so she could be near a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
“I was an inpatient there until Coco was born at 31 weeks. Doctors had to keep a close eye on me because the risk of infection was a lot higher,” she said.
‘‘ For parents of premature and sick babies, the NICU journey is not just emotionally and physically exhausting as it can also be financially devastating ’’ - Kylie Pussell
“She was born at 1537 grams, so she was tiny. We were very lucky, though, that she was borningoodconditionandhadnootherissues apart from her prematurity.
“She spent the first week in NICU at special care in Melbourne before she was transferred to Barwon Health, and she spent the next six weeksthereinspecialcarenurseryinGeelong.”
Preterm labour begins before the 37th week of pregnancy, with babies born before this time more likely to need help with breathing and keeping warm.
Luci said the concerning pregnancy and birth of her daughter was a “stressful time” for her and her husband as they were away from home.
“My husband, from the first time I was hospitalised, also got accommodation in Melbourne. So, he was close by, but that was on a night-by-night booking,” she said.
“I finished work six weeks earlier than I planned to finish. I planned to work up until about 37 weeks, but I had to finish work abruptly, so I didn’t have a lot of annual leave banked up.
“I was lucky with the couple weeks of annual leave that I did have, but that was still about seven weeks of working and pay that I missed out on because I had to finish work straight away.
“I did get the 18 weeks of paid parental leave afterCocowasborn,butitwasstillsevenweeks less than I had with my baby at home, which is what you’d expect from a normal pregnancy.
“The bills still needed to be paid, and you
stillneedtokeepahouseholdrunningathome, so costs are just an extra stress that you’ve got on top of the emotional side of having a prem baby.”
Coco has come a long way since being born prematurely, and Luci said that “you would never know she was a prem baby”.
“She’s going to be four in May, which is exciting. She’s very active and talkative and she goes to day care four days a week. She’s in three-year-old kinder this year and she’s loving that,” she said.
More than 48,000 babies require specialised care for premature or sick births each year in Australia, according to the Miracle Babies
Foundation.
Co-founder and chief executive Kylie Pussell said there was a need for the federal government to provide more support and paid leave for parents.
“For parents of premature and sick babies, the NICU journey is not just emotionally and physically exhausting as it can also be financially devastating,” she said.
“Up to half of NICU parents will experience mental health challenges, yet the current government Paid Parental Leave entitlements do not reflect the unique and complex needs of these families.
“Many of these parents are using their paid
parental leave whilst their baby is in hospital, placing higher financial pressure on them to return to work earlier than their peers who had a full-term, healthy baby.
“A critical care payment for the time spent in NICU should be made available through additional paid parental leave for neonatal (the first 28 days of a newborn infant’s life) families.
“We firmly believe all babies should be discharged from hospital with the same paid parental leave entitlements, so we are calling for an additional paid leave to support parents when a baby is born prematurely or in hospital for over two weeks, during the most critical care period in hospital.”
Geelong’s Luci Hadler with husband Matt and daughters Coco and Siena. Inset: Coco spent a total of seven weeks in the NICU. (Pictures: Supplied)
Landcare grants for youth
Young people who want to learn and care for Victoria’sbiodiversityandnaturalenvironment are now eligible to apply for the Victorian Junior Landcare and Biodiversity Grant.
Schools, Scouts, Girl Guides, youth groups, junior Landcare groups in Victoria, and cross-border schools with Victorian students are encouraged to apply.
Eligible applicants can apply for up to $5000 to assist them with biodiversity projects and activities.
Funding is available for projects that engage young people in activities under two focus areas: biodiversity-focused education activities and biodiversity-focused on-ground projects.
Previous grant recipients, the Melton Wildflower Girl Guides, obtained a grant to help implement their project, Helping Grow Melton Botanic Garden, raising awareness and educating the Girl Guides on numerous topics relevant to the natural environment, including identifying locations and ideal habitats of local native fauna.
The project encompassed planting suitable indigenous vegetation, including shrubs, herbs, grasses, and a few trees.
Unit leader and acting district manager for Melton district, Kerry Martin, said the Melton Girl Guides will consider applying for the grant this year, as it will prove to be beneficial for the girls’ learning.
“We have already done the Great Western Water program, which made the girls think about where the water comes from and its sustainability,” she said.
“We are always doing things to educate ourselves about the environment like clean up Australia day and other community events.
“We will consider applying for the grant to provide girls a pathway into learning about the environment and Victoria’s biodiversity.”
In 2025, a total funding of $450,000 has been providedfortheVictorianJuniorLandcareand Biodiversity Grants.
Details: https://landcareaustralia. smartygrants.com.au/vjlcbg25
Briefs
Spate of local arrests
Police have arrested 36 people as part of multiple operations conducted over four nights in March in Brimbank and Melton. During the operation, which ran from March 12 to 15, police arrests included two teenagers aged 17 and 18, who were allegedly attempting to access a tobacco store on Ballarat Road in Sunshine. A further two locals were among those arrested after police took notice of a white Jeep Cherokee allegedly displaying false number plates in Taylors Hill. Police attempted to intercept the vehicle on Calder Park Drive when it failed to stop. The alleged occupants then exited the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot. Police successfully located the two men and the vehicle was confirmed to be allegedly stolen, with police locating a traffickable amount of cannabis inside along with $2500 in cash.
Fungi festival
Join a celebration of all things fungi in Bacchus Marsh on April 12 and 13 for the annual Moorabool Mushroom Festival. Learn about all aspects of fungi, including ecology, citizen-science, cultivation, foraging food, medicine, mycoremediation and mycomaterials. It’s at Bacchus Marsh Public Hall, 207 Main Street. Details: https://myco.org.au/fungi-festival/
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Melton Girl Guides at Elements camp in Ocean Grove October 2024 with (back row) Willow, Ally, Emily, Mariah, Erin Martin (leader), Kayla and Alyssa, (front row) Milly, Amanda, Jaymie, Audrey, Kaitlyn, Katelyn and Kerry Martin (leader).
Cooking up world record
By Gladys Barreta
The stats are out and Rockbank local Evette Quoibia is the official Guinness World Record holder for the longest continuous time an individual has cooked.
It was no easy feat, as the previous world recordholderforthelongestcookingmarathon had cooked for over 119 hours in the kitchen. Ms Quoibia has now taken the reins with a remarkable 150 hours cooking for a total of six days.
‘‘ I was hallucinating at some points ... my cooking brain was still active and all the food still tasted amazing ’’ - Evette
Ms Quoibia, a self-taught chef, runs the catering service Jollof Vibe in Kensington, serving West African cuisine.
Thecompetitionwasglobal,withcontestants joiningfromasfarawayasCanadaandGhana.
“It was a super crazy experience. I was worried about standing for 24 hours and cooking for that long, with pain in my legs and arms,” Ms Quoibia said.
“I felt there was a miracle that carried me through the experience. I was hallucinating at some points because I was so tired, but the interesting thing was, my cooking brain was still active and all the food still tasted amazing.”
The cooking marathon required Ms Quoibia to have something on the stove at every moment, preparing food to be served up constantly. Every four hours, contestants
were allowed a 20-minute break to nap, use the restroom, or alternatively a five-minute break every hour.
Dishes of up to seven kilograms were served withpeopleliningupforupto24hoursoutside OtaoKitcheninAbbotsfordwhereMsQuoibia completed the competition.
“I love how there were so many people together and everybody was having fun and enjoying the food, which made the whole experience worth it for me,” Ms Quoibia said.
“If I didn’t get the record, that would have been enough for me.”
Ms Quoibia said doing the marathon was her way of giving a voice to her community
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andachievingsomethingsignificantinherlife.
“I’ve always wanted to do something out of the ordinary that gave me an opportunity to have a voice,” she said.
“In society, if you haven’t done anything big or great, people don’t listen so I’ve always felt like I wanted to do something impactful.
“I was born during a war having come from Liberia and didn’t have the opportunity to get a proper education. I realised I was made for something more, so this was my opportunity to inspire.
“I don’t know what the future holds, but I want to go back home one day and make a change, and I want to have a voice.”
Cop car rammed
Police have charged two men following a police ramming in Kurunjang. It is understood a red Holden Commodore sedan was travelling east on Kirkton Drive about 3.50pm on April 2, when officers attempted to intercept it. The driver of the Holden allegedly rammed the car into two marked police vehicles before hitting with a fence.
The driver, a 36-year-old Kings Park man, was arrested. It is alleged officers found a quantity of .22 ammunition, a flick knife, an extendable baton, stolen identity cards, about 25g of Methylamphetamine, cannabis, cash and four stolen registration plates.
The man was charged with kidnapping, false imprisonment, prohibited person possessing a firearm, intentionally exposing a police officer to risk by driving, theft of motor vehicle, handling stolen goods, possessing drugs of dependence, possessing ammunition and possessing prohibited weapons.
As part of the investigation, police executed a search warrant at a property on Stewart Crescent, Rockbank, about 7.45pm on April 2. It is alleged officers located1.2litresof1,4Butanediol(GHB), about 22g of Methylamphetamine, about 25g of cannabis, a small amount of heroin, a stolen registration plate and a large amount of cash.
A 36-year-old man from Rockbank was arrested. He has been charged with possessing and trafficking drugs of dependence, handling stolen goods, possessing proceeds of crime and bail offences.
Evette Quoibia holds world record for cooking for longest time. (Damjan Janevski) 468076_03
Quoibia
Memorial Park
Detailed designs for the first stage of your new memorial park have now been completed and you can be one of the first to see them.
Harkness Memorial Park has been designed for, and with, the community, ensuring it’s more than a final resting place, but a versatile space where people can gather, reflect, and connect.
Visit our pop-up event where you can view the plans, share your thoughts and feedback, and talk directly to the team helping to bring this project to life.
harkness.gmct.com.au
harkness@gmct.com.au
When: Saturday, 12 April 2025 9am – 11am
Urgent care clinics at injury time
By Christopher Carter, chief executive, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network
Autumn is a season beloved by sports fans. It’s football time. It’s netball time. It’s soccer time.
And that means it’s also injury time.
Cuts, sprains and fractures are all part and parcel of Australia’s shared love of getting out on a sports field to kick, throw or hit a ball around.
Unfortunately,gettinghurtisafactoflifefor the thousands of kids and adults who turn out every week for training and matches.
And let’s not forget all those who kick the footy or bounce the basketball in the driveway, onlytotakeatumbleintheheatofthemoment.
It used to be that a sprained ankle or wrist mid-game resulted in one of two outcomes: an uncomfortable day or two waiting to see a GP, orseveralhourssittinginahospitalemergency department.
These days, thankfully, there is a third option: urgent care clinics, or UCCs.
UCCs give you more options to see a GP or nurse when you need care for urgent, but not life-threatening, injuries and illnesses.
Exact details may vary from clinic to clinic, but in general they are open seven days a week across extended hours.
Treatment is free, and there is no need to make an appointment, nor to have a Medicare card.
All UCCs have services such as pathology and imaging either in the same building or nearby. (There might be charges for these.) Each, too, is linked up to a nearby hospital and the ambulance service – so if it turns out you need really serious care really quickly, they can get you there really fast.
The majority of sporting injuries, though, can hurt a bit, but are relatively minor in the
scheme of things.
In most cases, the ideal thing to do after a spill on the field (or the driveway) is to go and see your regular doctor or medical centre.
Sometimes, however, that’s not an option because appointments aren’t available as soon as you’d like. So, the next best option is to head for your nearest UCC.
You should think about doing this if you’ve torn a muscle, suspect a minor fracture, or
copped an errant elbow.
InourregionthereareUCCsinCraigieburn, Carlton, Maribyrnong, Melton, Moonee Ponds, Richmond, Sunbury, Sunshine and Werribee.
There are also plenty of others across Victoria – so they are still an option if you get hurt during an away game.
Forfulldetails,andtofindtheUCCnearestto you wherever you are, check out this webpage:
betterhealth.vic.gov.au/urgent-care-clinics
The other good options for urgent care are to ring Nurse-on-Call on 1300 60 60 24 or visit the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department at vved.org.au on your computer or smart phone.
And, of course, if it’s a serious injury, don’t delay. Call triple-0 straight away. And one last message: good luck to you and your team!
A injury on the netball court doesn’t have to result in a trip to hospital. Try visiting an urgent care clinic instead. (Shutterstock)
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
Community courses
Melton South Community Centre’s term two program of courses and events is now available, with learning activities for all the family. The centre is at 41 Exford Road, Melton South.
meltonsouth.org.au or 9747 8576
Try taekwondo
Melton South Community Centre is offering free taekwondo come and try sessions for girls aged 8-14 as part of the Melton council’s Girls Can initiative. Classes are from 5.30-6.30pm on Tuesday, April 22 and 29 or Wednesday, April 23 and 30. Places are limited and bookings are essential.
9747 8576
Easter high tea
Bacchus Marsh CWA is hosting an Easter high tea on Wednesday, April 16, from 10am-noon. Cost: $25pp. Bring your Easter bonnet. Bookings required by Monday, April 14. The high tea will be held at the rear of 182 Halletts Way (enter from Wittick Street).
karin.wilsonexchange@gmail.com or 0417 344 968
Friends of Melton Botanic Gardens
The Friends of Melton Botanic Gardens will host their monthly meeting on Wednesday, April 9, from 7.30pm, at Bridge Road Community Centre, 260-266 Bridge Road, Strathtulloh. There will be updates on what is happening at the botanic garden and the friends’ activities. The guest speaker will be Greater Melbourne Cemeteries Trust landscape designer Carlo Missio. All welcome. Supper provided, BYO mug.
9743 3819
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 Boulevard, Harkness. Focusing on senior men’s mental and physical wellbeing. Join the group for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including carpet bowls, pool, table tennis, cards and chess.
Trevor, 0404 494 649, or 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
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
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
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
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 5367 4390
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
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
Rose cares of Maddingley Park
The group meets every Wednesday from 10am-noon at the Commemorative Rose Garden, Maddingley Park on the corner of Taverner Street and Grant Streets, Bacchus Marsh. They maintain the two rose gardens at the park. Volunteers are welcome and no experience is necessary to join .
Elaine, 0400 052 857 or Judy, 0428 463 538
Community band
The Greater Western Community Band meets Thursdays from 7.30 – 9.30pm. Rehearsal venue is the Bridge Road Community Centre, Strathtulloh (Melton South). The band is available for events. Brass, woodwind and percussion players are always welcome.
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
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.
www.facebook.com/ groups/352071857283331
Melton Trauma Teddies
Melton Trauma Teddies are seeking volunteers to assist with knitting, stuffing, or stitching teddy-bears that go to children in their time of need.
Jean, 0412 931 498
This week’s photographer’s choice photo is of the new elephant enclosure at Werribee Open Range Zoo. (Damjan Janevski) 468666_01
Young performers take the mic
A free story-led festival and open mic event is coming to Brimbank on April 12 at the Bowery Theatre.
A collaborative showcase of young artistic talent, Cinespace and South by South East Asian (SXSEA), alongside Brimbank Youth Arts are presenting a night of film, live performance and free food.
Across a series of workshops, young participantsofCinespaceandSXSEA’s‘About Us, For You: A Festival of Stories’ program, have honed their skills in storytelling to create music, film, and theatre works, and these will now be showcased at the event.
Brimbank’s FReeZA will be presenting its bi-annual Half-Baked Open Mic for young people as well to practise their performances in front of a crowd, whether it’s a dance, spoken word, song, diary entry or instrumental.
The collaborative event is set to captivate audiences according to SXSEA founder Pranati Narayan Visweswaran.
Ms Visweswaran said the program was also a great opportunity for the young performers — some of whom may be doing it for the first time.
“It is incredibly important for us to support
young people in their journeys with the creative arts,” she said.
“It can be such a transformative and rewarding experience to see what you have created come to life, and feel supported by those around you.”
The performances will kick-off at 3pm.
Details: https://creativebrimbank.com.au/ half-baked-apr-2025
Pranati Narayan Visweswaran is asking people to come along and support the young performers. (Damjan Janevski) 469472_01
All aboard the Dinosaur Line!
Full steam ahead – the Bulla Hill Railway is warming up its locomotives for its next public run day this month, with passengers offered clear views of giant Jurassic reptiles and the picturesque Macedon Ranges.
Known as the Dinosaur Line, the railway weaves past several colourful dinosaur statues, including a large animatronic figure.
Run by a group of passionate volunteers, the organisation will host its next public run day from 10am–4pm on Sunday, April 20, with the
call for the last ride at 3.45pm.
Railway promotions officer Sue Brabazon said there is “something for everybody” at the site,andthatthevolunteers“justloveoperating the trains for the public”.
“We’ve got a range of trains on the go – we’ve got steam, we’ve got diesel, we’ve got battery. We have shelters for hire, the train playground, … we’ve got a train outline that you can have your photos with as well … plus all of our many dinosaurs to find around the track,” Ms
Brabazon said.
“Itkeepsthekidsallentertainedwhilethey’re havingagreatride…aswellasallthebeautiful views looking out towards Mount Macedon for the adults … everyone gets wowed by that.”
Tickets are $5 each for anyone over 12 months of age and can be purchased on the day with cash or card.
The Bulla Hill Railway is located at 15 Green Street, Bulla.
Details: bullahillrailway.org.au
Bandroom set to host birthday gigs
Yarraville’s Kindred Bandroom turns 19 this month and appropriately for a live music venue, is hosting a run of gigs to celebrate.
From Wednesday, April 9 through to Saturday, April 12, six shows, including two afternoon shows, will be held at the Harris Street venue which is part of the larger Kindred Studios complex.
US singer-songwriter, John Craigie, will kick off Kindred’s birthday party shows on April 9, as part of a three-week run around Australia.
Joining Craigie will be Portland, Oregon folk-country artist, Kassi Valazza, who will be making her Australian debut.
On Thursday, April 10, Raga Saga will play a free afternoon show from 2-4pm playing a mixture of North Indian classical music and melodic jazz. That evening, Kindred’s regular free jamnight,FlowMotion,willbeheldwith special guests, Super-Band, playing two hours of high-energy, improvised groove music.
OnFriday,April11,seven-pieceSydney metal band, Battlesnake, will headline a birthday rock party with support from Melbourne’s Peach Fuzz, Milk After Sex and Destrends DJs.
On Saturday, April 12, six-piece, genre-fluid, psych-jazz and rock group, Big Cat, will play a free afternoon show starting at 1pm.
Later that night, legendary Melbourne based nine-piece ensemble, Ausecuma Beats, will close out Kindred’s birthday celebrations with support from vocalist and percussionist Immy Owusu, Dom Carpenter Trio and AKA Zeb.
Tickets and information: https:// moshtix.com.au/v2/venues/kindredbandroom-vic/8260
The Princess Bride takes over Penrose Place this weekend
You can’t visit the fictional kingdom of Florin in person, but you can come down to Penrose Place in Tarneit and watch one of its finest love tales on the big screen.
On Saturday, April 12, the beautiful Princess Buttercup and the brave Westley will swashbuckle their way through adversity to be together in The Princess Bride – and you’ll be able to watch it comfortably.
Six-fingered swordsmen, murderous princes and rodents of unusual sizes will attempt to stop the two lovers from being together, but nothing is stopping you from coming along with loved ones and chilling out with a bag of
popcorn.
MuchlikePrinceHumperdinck,yourfriends might get slightly jealous if you don’t invite them along, so it’s probably best to let them know you’re going and avoid what Buttercup and Westley go through.
There will be pre-movie themed entertainment to enjoy, so pack your picnic blanket, grab dinner and settle in for an evening of outdoor cinema fun.
Some bean bags will be provided, but it is best to bring your own chairs.
Your furry friends will be allowed along to this event, but they must stay on a leash and
under supervision at all times. Light refreshments will be available onsite including coffee, hot drinks, ice cream, fairy floss and popcorn.
Pre-movie entertainment starts at 5pm, with the movie commencing at 6pm.
This session is part of Wyndham council’s free Movies in the Park series.
Details: www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/ moviesinthepark
Bulla Hill Miniature Railway volunteers Brian Parkinson, Kris Siderov, and Ronald Goold. (Damjan Janevski) 418028_01
Come see The Princess Bride at Penrose Place. (Supplied)
LARGE YOUNG HOME IN POPULAR
1238
Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part time Sales Executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.
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.
Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starnewsgroup.com.au
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to
ACROSS
1 Beachgoer’s two-piece (6)
4 Masses of bees (6)
10 Cavalry weapon (5)
11 Banishment (9)
12 Root out (9)
13 Popular garden figure (5)
14 Sufficient (6)
15 Brink (4)
19 Actor, – Gosling (4)
20 Family head (6)
24 Hand digit (5)
25 Blend (9)
27 A continuous expanse of land (9)
28 BeautyandtheBeast heroine (5)
29 Bears (6)
30 Brigand (6)
DOWN
1 Follower of a particular religion (8)
2 Australian animal (8)
3 Requiring (7)
5 Argue (7)
6 Very large, horned, planteating animals (abbr) (6)
7 Season (6)
8 Roman garment (4)
9 Goes regularly to (an event, etc.) (7)
16 Executive group in government (7)
17 Exhaustive (8)
18 Sharpest vertical angle (8)
19 Reconstruct (7)
21 A branch of mathematics (7)
22 Adhesive (6)
23 Central Asian fruit (6)
26 Ballet skirt (4)
four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 Whose song How to Make Gravy was also the title of his 2010 memoir?
2 Who played Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars films?
3 In which ocean is Christmas Island?
4 In which US drama series did Australian actor Jesse Spencer (pictured) star as Matthew Casey?
5 In the TV show TheSimpsons, what breed of dog is Santa's Little Helper?
6 With which song
7 Giuseppe Verdi's 1871 opera Aida was originally commissioned to celebrate the opening of what?
8 What is the only part of the human body that can’t repair itself? 9 Balaklava is a town in which Australian
No. 264
No. 232
Be swift for the new Suzuki
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
It’s ironic that the Swift Sport Turbo is the oldest, unchanged model in the Suzuki lineup, but at the same time still manages to shine as the star of the lineup.
Yep. The third generation Sport dates back to the 2017 Frankfurt motor show, it’s still a great little performance package at a super affordable price, and proof positive of the old saying: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
In June, 2020, Suzuki added a 48-volt mild hybrid to the car for the European market, but alas Australia never benefited from that update.
Styling
Dual exhausts, a sports bodykit and roof-mounted rear wing, together with the optional two-tone paint job transform the Swift Sport Turbo into a desirable little hatch.
There’s just the one model, priced from $32,990 driveaway. It’s available with a choice of six-speed manual or conventional six-speed auto. An auto adds $2000, metallic paint $595 or two-tone paintwork $1095, bringing the total price to $36,085 with the works.
Given the Sport has not moved on from the previous architecture and hasn’t been updated in a while, nor has it been mentioned in dispatches, there’s a good chance it is living on borrowed time.
So. If you have a hankering for one, get going and get one, or you could find the Sport slipping through your fingers.
Standard equipment includes cloth trim, single-zone climate air conditioning, tilt and reach adjust steering wheel, driver seat height adjust, D-shaped three-spoke sports steering wheel, keyless entry and start, electric folding mirrors, auto lights and mirror (but not the wipers), rear park sensors, driver info display. Oh, and somewhere along the line they added a digital speedo.
Swift Sport is covered by a five-year warranty.
Service intervals are pegged at 12 months or 10,000km.
Infotainment
Infotainment consists of an insect 7.0-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, voice control, satnav, a reverse camera, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus six-speaker unbranded audio with MP3 compatibility. MP3s . . . remember them?
A small information display located between the two instrument dials provides trip, fuel consumption, distance to empty etc.
You won’t find any USB-C ports in front, just a single USB-A port and a 12 volt outlet.
Safety
The current Swift attracts a measly single star safety rating from ANCAP, but it is unlikely this rating applies to the Sport.
The original rating, issued in 2017, has long since expired.
So, it was safe back then, but may not be as safe as competitors these days.
Safety encompasses six airbags, electronic stability control and advanced safety stuff such as auto emergency braking, lane departure warning, weaving alert, blind spot alert, rear cross traffic alert, high beam assist and adaptive cruise control.
Engines/transmissions
Sport is powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged four cylinder petrol engine that produces 103kW of power at 5500 revs and 230Nm of torque, the latter between 2500 and 3000 revs. It’s available with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic (subject of our test), with steering wheel mounted gear change paddles.
With a 37-litre tank, fuel consumption is a claimed 6.1L/100km whether it is the auto or manual, and it takes 95 premium unleaded.
Driving
Although described as a five-seat hatch, you’d be lucky to fit five in the Sport — let alone four. Rear legroom is limited.
The sports seats are a snug fit and the side bolsters make getting in and out more difficult than would normally be the case, not to mention pressing uncomfortably into my thighs.
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Safety: 8/10
Thirst: 8/10
Practicality: 8/10
Comfort: 7.5/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 8/10
Overall: 7.9/10
The front seats are manually adjusted and trimmed in an attractive combo of cloth, with red stitching and Sport logos.
There are two cup holders in the front between the seats, with room for larger bottles in the doors.
There is no centre console and no rear air vents, not that they’re really needed.
The dash features some coloured pieces of trim with a carbon-fibre like finish, but you’ll find it’s all hard plastic.
A flat-bottomed, leather trimmed sports wheel hides two, old-style analogue instrument dials that flank a central information panel.
Cycling through the panel brings up a series of graphics: clock, motion, torque and power, acceleration and braking graphs, and one for turbo boost.
There’s also a digital speedo, which in a car like this is an absolute necessity.
Sport is push button start, but like other Suzukis, you need to be careful putting it into drive.
Dragging the transmission lever all the way back engages manual mode. The result is lots of revving, until you work out what is going on, but the tranny will eventually change up when the engine red lines.
Punching the accelerator produces a surprisingly fun, surprisingly engaging response, that is both tactile and audible.
Sport is not lightning quick, but it does make all the right noises and there’s enough there to get the blood pumping. The dash from 0-100km/h takes a sharpish 7.2 seconds and overtaking can be accomplished almost at will.
Suspension is MacPherson strut front and torsion beam with coil springs rear.
Steering is excellent and the brakes are aggressive, with a ride that is firm but not harsh. At the same time we did manage to
find the bump stops a couple of times.
The tyres generate quite a bit of noise on coarse bitumen, but that’s par for the course with small cars where it’s harder to disguise. With 17-inch alloys and exey 195/45 Continentals, Sport sits securely on the road, turns in nicely and has plenty of mid-corner grip.
Push really hard and it will ultimately understeer, with some lift-off oversteer under hard application of brakes.
The turning circle by the way is crap and tight carparks can be a trial, even in a car this size.
Whether you opt for the auto or manual, fuel consumption is a claimed 6.1L/100km.
We were getting 6.9 from the tiny 37-litre tank after some 727 km (and it takes premium 95 RON unleaded).
The boot looks larger than before, but of course that’s because it doesn’t have to fit a spare – just a puncture repair kit.
Summing up
Suzuki Swift Sport Turbo is a bit old school, but that’s a good thing.
A small hatch, turbocharged four cylinder engine and manual gearbox provide the essential ingredients for some affordable driving fun.
Don’t let it slip through your fingers.
Suzuki Swift Sport Turbo is a bit old school, but that’s a good thing. (Pictures: Supplied)
Game on for local sports clubs
It was the start of new eras and new beginnings across the football fields and netball courts for several clubs as the local competitions kicked off. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.
Melton South’s Matthew Notman. 469984_07
Melton South’s Kevin Klix. 469984_26
Macedon’s Lilli Collins. 466906_12
Riddell’s Charrouf Habib is tackled. 466906_03
Kyneton’s Ethan Foreman. 466908_09
Melton South’s Stella Coleman. 469990_02
Gisborne Giants’ Matt Quigley. 466908_06
Diggers Rest’s Casey Smart. 469990_14
East Sunbury’s Brendan Fevola and Sunbury Kangaroos’ Michael Treweek. 466902_09
Sunbury Kangaroos’ Dean Halliwell. 466902_11
East Sunbury’s Joshua Crump. 466902_04
Yambukian steps out of shadow of sibling
Despite building an imposing career resume, the Andy Gath trained Yambukian finds it difficult to step out of the considerable shadow cast by his younger sibling.
In most other families, Yambukian’s record of six metropolitan successes en route to more than $230,000 in prize money would be the headline act.
Not when your younger half-brother happens to be eight times Group 1 winner Catch A Wave.
Yambukian again showed his penchant for racing at Melton when he led all the way in the CNR Router Bits Free For All on Saturday night.
With Jordan Leedham in the sulky, Yambukian showed his customary gate speed toheadoffstablemateTangoTarashortlyafter the start with his main danger Bulletproof Boy working around to keep him company. In the run to the line Yambukian managed
to stave off a gallant Bulletproof Boy by half a head with Tango Tara three metres away third in a mile rate of 1:51.7 for the 1720 metre sprint trip.
Leedham said finding the lead was the
catalyst in winning the race.
“He was a lot sharper tonight than what he usually is and from the wide draw I was able to get across,” Leedham said.
“It was a quick first 200 (metres) off the gate but once I got across to the pegs he came back to me straight away and I was able to get a cheap second quarter.
Then he got rolling down the back and he was good enough to hang on.”
The seven-year-old’s race track performances are not lost on Gath.
“I know he’s often referred to as Catch A Wave’s older brother but his record shows he’s a good horse in his own right,” Gath said.
“He’s a genuine horse who always gives his best.
He’s a 120 rater now so it all gets down to barrier draws in these free for alls but he’s always hard to beat when he finds the front.”
Trainer Joe Pace mapped out plans for a
469984_10
Burras on the board
By Tara Murray
Diggers Rest passed its first test of the Riddell District Football League season, beating newcomers Melton South on Saturday.
It was a bit of an unknown for the Burras heading into Saturday’s clash, with the Panthers returning from the Ballarat league this season. The Panthers haven’t had a win in a few years.
The Burras led all day in the contest as they came away with a 17.9 (111)-7.7 (49).
New Burras coach Shaun Campbell said it was a bit of an unknown heading into the game.
“It’s good to get the monkey off the back,” he said. “It was a little bit different [having a new opponent].
“We were mainly worried about ourselves to be fair. We knew their good players and had put a little bit into them.
“We were more worried about our structures and execution. Next time we’ll be more prepared.”
Campbell, who has also been named
co-captain with Jaidyn Caruana, said they were really happy with how they executed the game plan and how they went about it.
He said with seven new faces in the team it was about trying to find those connections.
“We were happy, but the extra time in the quarters we weren’t used to,” he said. “The majority of players haven’t played with the longer quarters and it was a lot hotter day.”
Campbell said they would look to build as the season goes along with the new group.
He said they wanted to add some more talent to the squad after last season.
“I was pretty lucky to get a few new players in,” he said. “Some wanted to come and play with friends.
“It’smorethantheclubisusedtowelcoming in. We went out in straight sets last year so we wanted some extra top end talent.
“We know the depth has been there with the reserves having so much success. We’re in a good spot.”
For the Panthers, Sam Hurst, Sam Darley and Mitch Fino were named their best.
The Burras will face Romsey this week, in
winter holiday in Brisbane after his talented trotter Harry Stamper returned to the winning list in the Yabby Dam Farms Trotters Free For All.
Sent out a well-supported favourite, Harry Stamper worked to the front inside the first 400 metres of the race and was never headed thereafter scoring by four metres from Im Bobby and Watts Up Partytime.
It was the six-year- old’s first win since August last year however Pace cited issues with the horse’s stifles as the reason for his absence from the winner’s stall.
“His stifles started locking up after the Inter Dominion heat at Newcastle which is why he kept galloping on the first turn,” Pace said
“We tried everything including injecting them but nothing worked and then we tried a ‘stabbing’ procedure under anesthetic and it has turned him around,” he said.
Tim O’Connor
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RDNL
The two new sides in the Riddell District Netball League competition came away with some points in the opening round. The Gisborne Giants got a first up win against Kyneton, while Melton South had a draw with Diggers Rest. In other matches, Riddell beat Macedon, 53-44, Lancefield was too strong for 56-43 and Woodend-Hesket started its title defence with a 59-38 win against the Melton Centrals.
RDFL
Melton beat Mount Alexander Falcons in the opening round of the Riddell District Football League women’s competition. The Bloods led 23-0 at quarter time and were able to remain in control, winning 6.8 (44)-1.1 (7). Pauline Hutchins kicked four goals for the Bloods in a best on ground performance. Macedon and Lancefield were the other winners.
Ballarat NL
Darley started the Ballarat Netball League season with a hard fought win against Melton in the Ballarat Netball League on Saturday. The Devils led at each of the breaks as they went on to win, 49-38. Olivia Cawthray scored 36 goals for the Devils, while Tahnysha Salanoa and Akira McCormack shot 19 goals apiece for the Bloods. Bacchus Marsh pushed Lake Wendouree in its match but fell short, losing 39-33. Kimberly Philipps shot 20 goals for the Cobras.
EDFL
what will be a good test of where they are.
“Theyhaven’tchangedtoomuch,”Campbell said.
“They’ve got Jack Jedwab back full time.
“We’re looking forward to the challenge.”
The Panthers will face Melton Centrals this Saturday in the first local derby.
In other matches, Melton Centrals started the season with a loss under lights against Woodend-Hesket.
The Hawks led all game and were able to hold off the Centrals to win, 9.12 (66)-7.8 (50).
Bradley Layton kicked three goals for Centrals.
Evan Donoghue, Dylan McDonald and Hisham Kerbatieh were named their best.
Gisborne Giants first senior game ended with a big loss to Kyneton, losing 21.15 (141)-4.7 (31).
Tigers coach Ethan Foreman kicked seven goals in the win.
Joshua Lee was named the Giants best.
Romsey had a big win against Lancefield, while Riddell started its premiership defence with a win against Macedon.
Hillside upset last season’s premiers Oak Park in opening round of the Essendon District Football League women’s premier division competition on Saturday. It was a hard fought contest with the Sharks taking the lead in the second quarter after a scoreless first quarter. The Kangaroos levelled the scores early in the last quarter, before Natasha Campbell on debut for the Sharks kicked the winner with three minutes remaining. The Sharks winning, 4.3 (27)-3.3 (21). In division 1, Burnside Heights come from behind to beat Tullamarine, 2.4 (16)-1.1 (7).
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Strong start to the season for Melton Phoenix
Melton Phoenix is starting to find its voice under new coach Vince Massara in the FV state league 4 west season.
Massara joined the Phoenix in the off season and it has been a strong start, with three wins from as many matches.
Massara said he can’t complain too much with a perfect start.
“We had mixed pre-season results as we were finding our voice, but I definitely feel we made some steps in the last few weeks, so it’s good to see that in the first two games,” he said before the weekend’s match.
“Pre-season was good. Mixed results-wise, but when you’re trying to work out the best way to play and working with a new team, you sacrifice some preseason results.
“The biggest disappointment was losing the Australia Cup tie, but it acted as a good kick up the backside too.
“The players have been really great with working through any little bumps and seeing the bigger picture.”
Massara said while they had started the
season well, they know there’s still a long way to go and improvements to be made.
The Phoenix scored nine goals in their opening two matches, showing their scoring prowess early on.
Massara said while they were scoring, the focus of the group was much wider than that.
“What I love about the group is that even though we’ve scored nine goals in two games, I think if you asked most players, they’d highlight the goals we conceded as irritations,” he said.
“You never go out expecting to score four or five goals a game. Just go out there, constantly do the right things, stick to our plan, and chances will come. Some days they go in, and some they don’t; That’s football.”
On Saturday, the Phoenix beat Melbourne City, 2-0. Adamson Ajayi scored both goals.
Massara said while the playing group was all new to him, they had been able to keep the core group from last season together this season.
He said after finishing second last season, and having enough points to win most leagues,
they didn’t want to do anything too crazy and rebuild when they didn’t need to.
“Obviously we’ve lost some players from last season, that’s totally normal, but we’ve also recruited well too,” he said.
Massara said they had a huge month to start the season, with a lot of home games. He said it would be a good test to see where they are.
“Having said that though, there’s no easy games at state 4 level, with the league restructuring next season every game is massive for every team.
“We just need to keep doing the right things, and give ourselves the best chance to do well.
”
Tara Murray
Bloods win tough contest
By Tara Murray
There was no easing into the Ballarat Football League season for Melton as it faced finals-like pressure in its opening round win against Darley.
The Bloods have usually opened their season against Melton South and had some big wins against the struggling Panthers in recent years. With Melton South leaving the competition, the Bloods faced another finalist from last season in the Devils first up.
Bloods coach Troy Scoble said it was a different feeling.
“Playing Darley first up, it was like finals first up,” he said. “It was a tough contest.
“Last year we were able to build into the season, where this year we hit the ground running.”
Scoblesaidwiththeweekoffafterroundtwo, a hard fought contest early on was really good for them.
He said both sides were pretty tired come the end of the game.
It was the Devils that got off to a better start but there was not much between the sides at
any of the breaks.
The Bloods were able to do enough to come away with a 9.13 (7)-8.7 (55) win.
Scoble said they had to work hard to get the points.
“They jumped us early on in the game and their pressure was really high,” he said. “We settled into the game.
“Both defences were on top and it was a struggle with the contested footy. It was a real see-sawing game with a lot of contests.
“It was a finals-like feel and fortunately we were able to convert a few in the last quarter.
Ryan Carter and Braedan Kight kicked two goals each for the Bloods.
Scoblesaiditwasarealmidfieldbattleandhe was happy with how they held up led by Jaycob Hickey, Blake Souter and the two Walkers, Jack and Lachlan.
Jordyn Cotter and Lachie Watkins were both strong down back.
For the Devils, Michael Edwards kicked four goals. Former St Kilda and Essendon player Nick Hind was best for the Devils in his first game for the club.
The Bloods, who also unveiled their
premiership flag on Saturday, have managed to keep their core group together again.
Scoble said they were missing four or five of their best side on Saturday.
“We’re giving younger players an opportunity,” he said. “It’s something we’ll looktocontinuetodoallyeartobringthatnext group in.
“Ben McMahon, who returned to the club this year, Oscar Greenshields, Chase Scoble, Harrison Hanley and Josh Stewart all came into the team.
“Billy Crofts is back at the club, he was a junior here. He’s VFL-listed with Footscray, so we’ll see how many games we are with him.”
While they are the defending premiers, Scoble said they don’t see themselves as the hunted.
He said they go in with the mentality they want to be the best team in the competition.
Bacchus Marsh also kicked off its season with a win as it beat Lake Wendouree, 19.10 (124)-10.11 (71).
Jake Owen kicked seven goals in the win, while Josh Huxtable was best on ground with four goals.
Ranaweera joins Burnside
Burnside Springs United has announced Ashan Ranaweera as its coach for the Victorian Turf Cricket Association Russell Pollock Shield season.
Theclubsaidafteralongandthorough process it had appointed Ranawerra as coach.
“Ashan has played 58 first class games in Sri Lanka before moving to Australia,” the club said on social media.
“Most recently he has been captain-coach of the Sunbury Cricket Club in the VTCA division 3 [division 2], “Ashan’s vision for the club moving forward has made us all excited for what the future will bring.”
Ranaweera told Star Weekly he was excited for a new challenge.
“I’m really excited,” he said. “There’s a lot of new players and a lot of younger players,” he said.
“Hopefully everything goes well and I’m looking forward to working with them and Darren [Ballie], the president.”
Ranaweera said a friend suggested the role to him saying they had a number of good junior teams.
With a passion for developing young players, the role seemed to be the perfect fit.
“They have good numbers and good facilities,” he said. “It’s a new club with a lot of new faces.
“I have 15 years experience and I was captain-coach last year at Sunbury.
“They need some new leadership here to help bring the juniors up.”
Ranaweera will be captain-coach and help add to Burnside Springs United’s top order, while he can also bowl.
He said Ballie was looking at bringing in some other players, while many of the core group had already re-signed.
Ranaweerasaidworkingonthemental side of the game would be one of his focuses,astheclubaimstogoatleastone step further after being knocked out in the semi finals the past two seasons. The mindset is different in finals,” he said. “The set up of normally compared to finals, they are more excited and everything has changed.
“It’s something we’ll talk about at the start. Working on the mentality is one of my main goals.”
Ballie said they were excited to have Ranaweera on board, with many of the juniors already keen to get to work.
Tara Murray
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Luke Buttigieg. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 464931)
Georgies bounce back on to the winners list
Caroline Springs George Cross showed its character as it returned to the winners list in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition on Friday night.
The Georgies had dropped its past couple of games and slipped away from the top couple of teams. It was a much better performance against Moreland City on Friday, winning 2-1.
“It was a massive challenge for us after the outcome of the previous week,” said coach Eric Vassiliadis “It was a real test of character and mindset. We stayed confident and on the front foot and it was definitely the reaction I thought we would have.”
Vassiliadis said they didn’t make the most of their chances in the first half having had a fair bit of control.
Hesaidtheydidn’tdroptheirheadsandwere able to find a way in the second half.
“I can understand why Moreland City has
been getting results the last six weeks,” he said.
“We stayed calm and we stayed brave.
“Whenthegameisnil-allandyou’reexpected to win and you’re missing chances, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. “We were brave and there wasabitofqualityfrombothJaidenDiamantis and Josh Joshua Whiteley. Triantafilos Skapetis also stepped up.”
Vassiliadis said he thought they had the better of the game and deserved to get the win.
Hesaidwhilethey’vehadsomemixedresults the past few weeks, it will hold them in good stead for the future. “It was about learning fromlastweek,”hesaid.“Weowneditandwere in the same position as last week and we were brave this time.”
The Georiges sit fifth on the ladder after nine games. Vassiliadis said he feels they should have an extra six points on the board at this stage and be up there with the top couple of
sides.
“I think everyone expected it to be tight this season,” he said. “There’s been some surprising results and it’s about momentum.”
The Georgies face Melbourne City on Saturday in round 10.
Meanwhile, Western United set a new club record with a fifth straight A-League men’s win on Saturday night, overcoming Perth Glory 3-1 at Ironbark Fields.
Rhys Bozinovski had the home side off to a flyer with his fourth goal in three matches with barely two minutes on the clock, but Perth made sure John Aloisi’s men had to work for it.
JaylanPearmanscoredalovelyequaliserafter half-time but United’s extra quality ultimately told as an own goal restored the lead before Ramy Najjarine slotted his first in Green and Black to seal the deal.
Lakers’ strong start
By Tara Murray
Caroline Springs put together a good first up performance to come away with a convincing win against Yarraville Seddon in the Western Football League women’s competition.
The Lakers showed no signs of rust in the opening round match as they controlled the contest throughout to come away with an 11.4 (70)-0.4 (4) win.
Lakers coach Alex O’Shea said it was nice to be back out on the field and see the group put together all the hard work and effort they had done during the pre-season.
“It was a good game, Yarraville Seddon is a very respected side,” she said. “We stuck at our structures and focused on what we wanted to focus on and stuck to the game plan.
“We played four quarters of footy and we were happy with the effort.”
Jacinta Kondis kicked four goals for the Lakers and was named among their best with Nyomi Stowers and Jordin Williamson.
O’Shea said it was a really even team contribution across all the lines.
It’s been a good off season for the Lakers, who are hoping to go one step further than
last season.
O’Shea said they have now put last season behind them.
“We’ve put in the hard yards in the past couple of years,” she said. “Last year and the way it panned out, we didn’t take our opportunities.
“It’s stuck with a lot of girls over the pre-season. It was a learning curve and how we want to improve and what we want to implement this season.
The Lakers have been able to strengthen their squad with some key additions.
“The Stevens sisters [Ebony and Brodie] have come across from Burnside Heights and have played a lot of women’s footy and have great experience and skills,” O’Shea said.
“Akima Manoah [joint league best and fairest winner] comes from the Suns and brings a high level of experience. She reached out to us and we invited her down and she enjoyed herself and decided to stay.
“Vanessa Baldwin was a Caroline Springs junior and has come back to the club. They all want to be part of the program and we have more depth in the team.
A big plus for the Lakers this season is the
Cobras, Devils remain undefeated
Bacchus Marsh and Darley came away with big wins for a third straight week in the Ballarat Football League women’s competition.
The cross town rivals are the early pacesetters in the competition, with both teams undefeated after three rounds.
The Cobras were at home on Sunday against Lake Wendouree.
Bacchus Marsh scored a couple of early goals before being able to extend the margin the next two quarters.
The side saved its best for the final quarter with five goals, to come away with a 13.15 (93)-0.0 (0) win.
Isabella Farella and Jacinta Reid kicked three goals each for the Cobras.
Melanie Freeman and Chloe Walker were named their best.
The Devils continued on their good start with a 70 point against East Point also on Sunday.
The Devils travelled up to Ballarat to take on the Kangaroos.
They were able to score consistently across all four quarters to come away with a 12.12 (84)-2.2 (14) win.
return of their reserves side.
TheteamisplayingintheEssendonDistrict Football League reserves competition and started with a win also against Yarraville Seddon.
“It gives opportunity for the girls who have different aspirations for footy,” O’Shea said.
“Some want to have a social kick and a bit of fun. We have the opportunity for seniors or reserves and no one is missing out.”
Meanwhile, Caroline Springs and Yarraville Seddon men’s sides played out another thriller with the Eagles getting over the line.
The Eagles led at every break, including by 36 points at three quarter time as the Lakers failed to convert in front of goal.
The Lakers came home hard in the final quarter, kicking 5.5 to two points but it wasn’t enough as they fell just short, 9.15 (69)-11.6 (72).
Malik Elfakahani and Tate Wood kicked two goals each for the Lakers. Lachlan Mellon, Alipate Bryant and Ben Caluzzi were named their best.
In division 2, Western Rams lost to Sunshine Heights.
Kim Bessell and Madalyn Clarke both kicked three goals. Lilli Condon made it three straight best on ground performances.
Charlotte Hill and Jenna Burke were other standouts.
This week, Bacchus Marsh faces its biggest challenge so far, Redan, while Darley is at home to Carisbrook.
Meanwhile, Darley’s Charlie Parsons-Jones is part of the under-16 Victoria Country squad that is competing at the national championships currently.
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BACCHUS MARSH