MAY 3, 2016 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
NEWS + SPORT + PROPERTY GUIDE
Waiting in the wings
(Damjan Janevski)
Finding a way to effectively treat spinal cord injuries is one of Rhiannon Tracey’s greatest passions. The Thomastown resident was left a quadriplegic following a pool accident in Bali in 2009. To help researchers edge closer, Ms Tracey will take part in the Wings For Life World Run on Sunday. The event is held in 34 cities around the world at the same time, with the Melbourne event kicking off at 9pm. ■ Full story: Page 9
Mernda rail makes tracks By Laura Michell Trains are set to depart Mernda by 2019 after the state government announced the allocation of $588 million to fund the long-awaited Mernda rail extension. The money was part of last week’s state budget, which also included up to $139 million to upgrade Plenty Road. Eight kilometres of duplicated track will be built between South Morang and Mernda as part of the rail extension, with stabling yards to be built north of Bridge Inn Road.
A premium station will be built in Mernda, with a second station planned for near South Morang’s Marymede Catholic College. Bidders have been asked to price a third station near Hawkstowe Parade. The project will be managed by the Level Crossing Removal Authority and is expected to be completed in 2018-19. South Morang and Mernda Rail Alliance spokesman Darren Peters described the funding as a win for the community. Yan Yean MP Danielle Green said the rail extension was vital for the community.
“Doreen and Mernda are some of the fastest growing suburbs in Victoria,” she said. “The rail line is desperately needed and will ensure these booming communities are connected to jobs, education and opportunities.” Whittlesea residents will also benefit from the upgrade to Plenty Road, which will be widened from four to six lanes between McKimmies Road and Riverdale Boulevard and from two to four lanes between Riverdale Boulevard and Bridge Inn Road. Council and residents have been lobbying for the road to be duplicated for a number of
years, amid reports that people are taking up to 90 minutes to drive eight kilometres on some days. The government will also set aside more than $77 million to build a diamond interchange at the intersection of O’Hearns Road and the Hume Freeway, although the funding requires an equal commitment from the federal government. Melbourne’s north will also benefit from money for new schools including Edgars Creek Primary School at Epping North and Craigieburn North West Primary School.
WINTER IS COMING! A GREAT TIME TO UPGRADE YOUR SAUSAGE AND SALAMI MAKING SUPPLIES. DEMONSTRATION COURSES ON OFFER. After 40 years of business, Melbourne’s beloved and iconic ‘Cellar Plus’ is changing name and location.
West Melbourne (store) 317 – 319 Victoria St, (Cnr Roden St), West Melbourne Victoria 3003 T +61 3 8560 3640 theartisansbottega
Epping (store and warehouse) 218 Cooper St, Epping Victoria 3076 T +61 3 9422 1711
artisansbottega
Trading Hours: Mon - Fri : 9 am - 5 pm Sat : 9 am - 3 pm Sun: 10.30 am - 2.30 pm (only if advertised!)
artisans.bottega www.artisansbottega.com.au