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NEWS + SPORT + PROPERTY GUIDE

Former top cop to lead Whittlesea Simon Overland, once Victoria’s top cop, has been revealed as Whittlesea council’s new chief executive.

Mr Overland will be the third chief executive to lead the council in the past 16 months.

Mayor Ricky Kirkham announced the appointment on Thursday, saying the decision had the unanimous support of his fellow councillors and followed an extensive national recruitment process.

He said it was an exciting time to lead the council and that councillors were looking forward to working with Mr Overland.

“Simon comes to the City of Whittlesea with extensive experience in management, leadership and community service, having served as the Secretary of the Department of Justice in Tasmania and as the former chief commissioner of Victoria Police,” Cr Kirkham said.

“He has a passion for community development, quality service delivery and reforming organisations.”

Mr Overland said he was excited to take on the challenge of leading Whittlesea council.

“I feel very honoured in accepting this important appointment,” he said.

“I am looking forward to working with council, staff and the local community to deliver on council’s plans for the City of Whittlesea.”

The council has been criticised in recent months over its decision to change chief executives twice in 11 months.

Former chief executive Michael Wootten was dismissed in March, having only been appointed to the job the previous April.

The council has not revealed the reason for his departure.

Mr Wootten’s appointment followed the shock ousting of long-term chief executive David Turnbull, who had led the council since 2007.

The decision sparked calls from Yan Yean MP Danielle Green for Local Government Minister Natalie Hutchins to investigate whether the council is being effectively governed.

Mr Overland, who will take over from acting chief executive Liana Thompson on Monday, August 21, has been appointed for five years.

(Damjan Janevski)

(Craig Abraham)

Field of dreams

GENERAL MANAGER GERALD ACKROYD Northern suburbs residents will be able to enjoy a meal and glass of wine while admiring the expansive views of the Macedon Ranges when a $35 million development opens its doors at Mickleham next year. Known as Marnong Estate, the development will feature historic homestead accommodation, a restaurant, conference and events space, winery and a microbrewery. ■ Story: Page 5

‘It’s unacceptable’

By Laura Michell Dallas residents and businesses have launched a class action against the operators of a Coolaroo recycling plant at the centre of a toxic blaze.

The lawsuit, alleging that the operators of SKM Recycling acted negligently, was filed in the Supreme Court last Friday by Maddens Lawyers.

It is seeking compensation for residents and businesses for damages and injury.

The Maffra Street plant caught fire on July 13. The blaze shrouded parts of the northern suburbs in acrid smoke and forced Dallas residents out of their homes.

Five people, including a four-year-old girl, were taken to hospital with smoke-induced conditions, while another eight were treated

at a community relief centre. Fire crews took two days to bring the fire under control, with firefighters brought in from interstate to help.

Maddens Lawyers principal Brendan Pendergast said anyone impacted by the fire was automatically included in the class action.

More than 100 people attended a public meeting at the Coolaroo Hotel last Thursday to discuss how the class action would work.

Mr Pendergast said a number of people raised concerns about the impact of the fire on their health, with many reporting ongoing respiratory problems.

“Residents are angry because since February this year, this is the third such incident,” Mr Pendergast said. “They can’t take this anymore.

It can’t be repeated. It’s just unacceptable.”

In a statement, SKM business manager

Robert Italiano said the company was working with authorities to minimise further impact.

He said the fire had brought to a head a much bigger infrastructure issue.

“Rubbish bins are now smaller, recycling bins are bigger and we seem to be one of only a few investing in the necessary infrastructure,” Mr Italiano said. “But of course, the huge volumes of residential recyclables keep on coming and it’s illegal to dump it as waste, so temporary storage is the only answer.”

The plant operates under a permit issued

by Hume council and was due to be inspected by council officers, Environment Protection Authority Victoria and the MFB on the morning of the fire to assess fire risks.

■ Taskforce

Laura Michell

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Mickleham’s field of dreams

By Laura Michell

‘‘

’’

- Dino Strano

homestead and create a tourism facility that locals could also enjoy.

“It is my wish to create a place where people can meet, take their families and get away, even for a short time, from their day-to-day routines,” he said.

“Creating a community space will not only fill a gap in this northern growth corridor of Melbourne, but more importantly, it will raise the profile of the region and give its community a local and vibrant destination of which they can be proud.”

It is hoped that stage one of the resort, which includes homestead accommodation, a 250-seat restaurant and a conference and wedding space, will open in March next year.

General manager Gerald Ackroyd said the development was expected to create about 200 jobs.

(Damjan Janevski)

A $35 million resort featuring accommodation, a restaurant, winery, day spa and brewery is set to open in Mickleham next year.

Donnybrook resident Dino Strano is behind the Marnong Estate development, which is on 405 hectares on Mickleham Road.

Mr Strano has been planning the development, which also features a working farm complete with Angus cattle, for close to two years.

He said he wanted to revive the estate’s 1840s

It will raise the profile of the region

Teen takes a step up The largest audience Keahna Pekin has ever danced in front of is about 300 people.

But that will all change when she steps on to the stage at Hisense Arena in front of more than 10,000 people for the Victorian State Schools Spectacular in September.

The Hazel Glen College student has been chosen as one of 14 principal dancers in the three-hour show, which highlights the talents of more than 3000 government school students across Victoria.

Keahna, 15, will perform in dances alongside the 13 other principal dancers, as well as staring in a solo.

She said she had not been involved in anything like the schools spectacular before.

“This is a very new thing for me, but I am enjoying it because I get to work with different choreographers and learn different styles,” she said.

Keahna, who trains at Epping’s Starz Performing Arts, has been dancing since she was about three years old and hopes to pursue a career in dance.

“I enjoy coming into the dance studio and forgetting all your problems. You can just dance and let out your emotions and no one is there to judge you,” she said.

Victorian State Schools Spectacular is at Hisense Arena on September 10 at 1pm and 6.30pm.

Details: www.education.vic.gov.au/about/ events/pages/spectacular.aspx Laura Michell

Future stages will include a vineyard, micro-brewery, coffee roasting house, day spa and farmer’s market.

Mr Ackroyd said around 11 hectares of vines had already been planted, with the first batch of wines expected in two-three years.

The property is also home to a 650-head herd of Angus cattle.

“A lot of work has gone in to developing it as a working farm. There is nothing like this here,” Mr Ackroyd said.

“Marnong Estate will also be providing locals with a number of diverse job opportunities.”

Fire prompts new powers A state government taskforce has been set up to audit recycling sites in the wake of a fire at a Coolaroo plant which forced people to evacuate their homes.

The taskforce, comprising Environment Protection Authority, MFB, CFA and Emergency Management Victoria, will identify sites that require action, such as a fire management plan, to protect the community.

Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the taskforce would target recycling sites.

The state government also plans to give the EPA greater power over recycling plants.

SKM Recycling’s Coolaroo site operates under a permit issued by Hume council.

Ms D’Ambrosio said the new powers would further clarify the EPA’s role and require operators of recycling plants to take reasonable steps to minimise risks of harm from pollution and waste.

Hume council chief executive Domenic Isola welcomed news of the taskforce and pending audit. However, he said the council would wait for a full investigation into the fire before commenting.

“The health and welfare of our local residents and businesses should be at the forefront of any action,” Mr Isola said.

The council’s environmental health officers and staff from the Department of Health and Human Services and Victorian Council of Churches have started visiting homes within the evacuation zone to check on residents’ welfare and provide information about cleaning up any ash around the house.

Details: www.hume.vic.gov.au Laura Michell

5 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ JULY 25, 2017

6 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ JULY 25, 2017

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Broady firms as buyers’ favourite

By Laura Michell One of Melbourne’s most maligned suburbs is catching the attention of home buyers, sending prices soaring in recent months.

Latest data from the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) shows that the median house price in Broadmeadows is now $540,000 – up 17.4 per cent from March.

REIV acting president Richard Simpson said Broadmeadows was one of Melbourne’s top-10 growth suburbs, coming in behind Croydon and Doncaster East.

Mr Simpson attributed the price increase to strong competition from buyers looking to secure property in an affordable area.

The median house price in Broadmeadows remains well below Melbourne’s median house price of $822,000.

YPA Glenroy senior sales executive and auctioneer David Taylor, who focuses on selling property in Broadmeadows, said the suburb’s proximity to the city was a big selling point.

He felt buyers were not put off by the suburb’s reputation, preferring to focus on the positives.

“It is only 15 kilometres from the city. If you

go 15 kilometres from the city anywhere else in Melbourne, you are looking at higher prices,” he said.

Mr Taylor said Broadmeadows also offered buyers good access to public transport and freeways.

The increase in median prices makes Broadmeadows one of Hume’s more expensive suburbs, with only Greenvale ($758,000), Gladstone Park ($651,500) and Westmeadows ($550,000) recording higher median prices.

The municipality’s cheapest suburb is Dallas ($408,500).

Mr Taylor said Broadmeadows was popular with investors, however there were some first-home buyers moving into the area.

“We are getting good movement in the townhouses at the moments. Over the past 12 months, they have been selling well,” he said.

“I still think there is growth in the area.”

In Whittlesea, Mernda recorded the highest increase in median house prices, rising 13 per cent to $521,250.

However, it remains one of the municipality’s cheapest suburbs. Only the Whittlesea township has lower median prices ($487, 500).

RSL sends Cub to camp The new school term is only a week old, but Sebastian Pike is already counting the days until the next school holidays.

The seven-year-old will be joining five other Cub Scouts from the Epping North Scout Group at the Victorian Cuboree – a five-day camp for Cubs – from October 2-6.

Sebastian, who has autism, will be attending the camp with his mum, Emma.

However, without the support of the Epping RSL, he would not be able to attend.

The RSL has paid Sebastian’s $600 camp fee, as well as $200 to allow his mother to attend as his carer.

It is also paying for Sebastian’s sister Hailey to attend a school holiday program while he and his mother are away.

Ms Pike said the family was extremely grateful for the RSL’s support.

“Sebastian needs a familiar adult with him as a carer to attend the cuboree and financially

we wouldn’t be able to afford it,” she said.

“This means Sebastian gets to do things all the other Cubs are able to do, and he gets a big adventure.”

Ms Pike said that while Sebastian was a bit anxious about attending the camp, the experience would be great for his confidence.

“He can practise his social skills with kids who are not his school friends, which we have been working hard on,” she said.

Laura Michell

Sebastian, 7, with his gifts from Epping RSL. (Damjan Janevski)

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PHONE \ 03 8318 5777

A Coolaroo recycling company, whose plant caught fire on July 13, has been fined $150,000 after a worker lost his right hand in an aluminium bailer.

WorkSafe took action against SKM Services following the 2014 incident.

Company representatives faced the Broadmeadows magistrates court on Thursday, where the company was found guilty of two charges of failing to provide or maintain a plant that was safe and without risk to health. It was also found guilty of one charge of failing to provide a safe system of work.

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Zaheer Rizwan and his daughter Ziva test out some toys. (Damjan Janevski)

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Toys meant to be lent Like any other toddler, Ziva loves playing with new toys.

The 21-month-old was recently given a sneak peak at the Brotherhood of St Laurence’s new toy library, which has been set up to provide Craigieburn families with greater access to educational toys.

The toy library, located in Connections@ Hothlyn’s community services hub, is open to families with children aged up to six.

Children can borrow a range of toys including cars and trucks, dress-ups, puzzles, scooters, and baby toys.

Brotherhood of St Laurence acting senior

manager John Catto-Smith said toys in the library were designed to help children’s learning and development.

He said the toy library would also help the not-for-profit organisation inform families about local services.

“We hope people accessing the library can also link in with our service if they would like to do so,” he said.

The toy library is at 120 Hothlyn Drive, Craigieburn and is open Tuesdays from 9.30-10.30am during school terms.

Laura Michell

A 14-year-old boy from Coburg has been charged over an incident in which two children were pricked by a syringe at a Broadmeadows supermarket on July 17. The boy was arrested last Thursday and charged with two counts of recklessly causing injury. He was bailed to appear at a children’s court on September 20.

Crime prevention plan

The state government has announced $700,000 for a project to reduce youth crime in Broadmeadows. The project will target high-risk recidivist young people aged 10-24 living within 100 metres of Banksia Gardens public housing estate.

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Police deploy hi-tech DNA

By Laura Michell Whittlesea home owners will be given the chance to stamp their valuables with “synthetic DNA” as part of a six-month trial to reduce burglaries and make it easier to return stolen goods.

As part of the trial 1000 homes across Whittlesea and Geelong will receive kits containing a unique synthetic DNA code, which will enable them to mark and register valuable items such as jewellery and technology equipment.

The kits will be delivered by local police and Neighbourhood Watch volunteers from August and will contain a clear liquid that can be applied to up to 50 items.

If a marked item is stolen and recovered, police can use a UV lamp to identify the liquid and test it to determine the DNA code and its registered owner.

Inspector Paul Tysoe said the trial used ground-breaking technology.

“Police will be able to identify where the property came from and potential offenders will be dissuaded from committing offences in that area,” he said.

“I am sure that crooks will want to find easier targets than our area when they realise the increased chances of being caught.”

Inspector Tysoe said Whittlesea was chosen as one of the trial sites because of increased burglary and crime rates last year.

According to Crime Statistics Agency data, there were 1787 burglaries in the municipality in the 12 months to March, up from 1710 in

the year to March 2016. Overall crime rose 11 per cent, with 16,726 offences in the 12 months to March.

Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Tess Walsh said the pilot program was an Australian first but the technology was already being used by police in the UK and New Zealand.

Inspector Tysoe said local police were also working with Whittlesea council to create a diversion pilot program.

‘‘

I’m sure that crooks will want to find easier - Paul Tysoe targets

’’

The program is aimed at offering first-time adult offenders rehabilitation programs to address the reasons for their offending, such as gambling, drug and alcohol addiction, or anger management issues.

If the offender completes the program, police will exercise their discretion and will issue a formal caution instead of charging them.

Inspector Tysoe said similar programs were already running across the state, but Whittlesea’s program was different as it was seeking funding for support agencies to run the rehabilitation programs.

He said a business case was being developed for the pilot program, which would be used to secure philanthropic donations.

“We want to build the community’s capacity to offer these services for people before they become offenders,” he said.

Inspector Paul Tysoe is moving on from his job in Whittlesea to forensics. (Marco De Luca)

Top cop making a move Inspector Paul Tysoe has swapped his job as Whittlesea’s top cop for a new role in forensics.

The inspector was Whittlesea’s local area commander for the past two and a half years, but last Thursday was redeployed to Victoria Police’s forensic science lab at Macleod.

Inspector Tysoe said his new job would be very different to his role at Whittlesea.

“I am going from overseeing a staff of 200 to a staff of 10. I will be overseeing training,” he said.

Inspector Tysoe has worked across the northern suburbs for the past 25 years, and has been stationed at Darebin, Nillumbik and Banyule. He said he felt his biggest achievement as Whittlesea’s top cop was forming strong

relationships with the community and increasing the social media presence of local police.

In May, Whittlesea became the latest area to launch an Eyewatch page on Facebook, allowing police to connect with residents over social media.

“The big thing has been community co-operation and the understanding by the community that they have a role to play in crime reduction,” he said.

Taking over from Inspector Tysoe will be Inspector Andrew Falconer, who will start work at Mill Park police station in two weeks.

Laura Michell

9 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ JULY 25, 2017

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Town centre back on track

By Laura Michell

CURTAINS & SHEERS

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The Mernda Town Centre is a step closer to finally being built, with amended plans for the development presented to Whittlesea council last week.

The new plans propose to reposition the first stage of the town centre further north towards the future Mernda train station, as well as repositioning Main Street to run east-west from the railway line.

A report to councillors said the amendment was necessary due to changes arising from the Mernda Rail Extension, with designs for the Mernda train station only finalised by the Level Crossing Removal Authority earlier this year. It said the changes would integrate the centre with the train station and pedestrian networks.

Stage one of the town centre will include supermarkets and associated retail and road infrastructure.

The amendment will be approved by the council once the land owners have agreed on developer contributions for the site.

Mayor Ricky Kirkham welcomed the amended plans.

“There has been a lot of discussion in the community about seeing this developed,” he said.

“Connecting the town centre with the rail station is a key outcome. This is a really great outcome for our community.”

The town centre, which will be built next to the Mernda train station and diagonally opposite the Bridge Inn Hotel, has a long history.

Council originally approved a development plan for the site from Woolworths in July 2009.

In September 2012, the developer submitted a revised plan, which was approved by council.

Sunbury is targeting family violence in the Arabic speaking community after reports reveal it is where the majority of Hume’s family violence issues lie.

Sunbury Community Health has started a program, Arabic speaking Families: Safe and Strong, to work with women and children who live in the Hume and Moreland areas.

The program was established because local data found the majority of people who experienced family violence and sought support in Hume were Arabic speaking.

More than 90 per cent of family violence referrals by Hume Risk Assessment Management Panel and Kildonan’s Integrated Family Violence Program were for Arabic speaking women, in the year to March 2017.

The new program offers Arabic speaking financial counsellors, caseworkers and family violence counsellors to those experiencing family violence.

Family violence counsellor Danielle Beaini said she thought the program would be “very beneficial”.

“It does help to not have to worry about people not understanding your culture,” Ms Beaini said. “It will give them the extra push to get help.”

Clients can be referred by local agencies and self-referrals.

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NEWS

Hume mayor Drew Jessop is pleased buildings in Hume are on the Open House list. (Damjan Janevski)

Open a door to history Visitors to Woodlands Historic Park will have a rare chance to tour one of Hume’s oldest buildings at the weekend.

The doors to Woodlands Historic Homestead at Greenvale will be opened to the public as part of Open House Melbourne.

The homestead, which was built in 1842, is now part of Living Legends – the international home of rest for champion horses.

Sunbury’s Rupertswood Mansion will also be part of the program, which features houses and buildings that reflect Melbourne’s history.

Mayor Drew Jessop hopes Hume’s inclusion

in Open House Melbourne will help residents to feel proud of their city.

“We are so proud to have such an array of fantastic cafes, restaurants, wineries, museums and galleries all within our city,” Cr Jessop said.

“Whether it’s grabbing brunch and some of the best coffee in Craigieburn, dining on authentic pasta in the Westmeadows Village or visiting a winery in Sunbury, there’s plenty to love about Hume.”

Details: www.hume.vic.gov.au/openhouse Laura Michell

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MY PLACE Graeme Bushby has watched Mernda grow over the past 30 years. Now he is advocating for infrastructure and services for his community as the new president of the Mernda and District Residents Association. He speaks with Laura Michell.

How long have you lived in Mernda and what brought you to the area?

I have lived in Mernda for 30 years. I came to Mernda for peace and open space, while still being within range of the city.

How has Mernda changed over the past 30 years?

There has been lots of development. I live in the old township and I used to look out over the back of my place and be able to see cows grazing. Now I see roofs.

What do you like about living in Mernda?

I like living in Mernda because I feel safe. My neighbours are all friendly and we help each other.

Has the area changed for the better? What, if anything, would you change?

I love it up here and I don’t think I will ever leave but I think the changes could have been done better.

With all the new development, crime has gone up. I feel safe where I live because people don’t bother us here. I also think all the developments around us are closing us in and destroying the local ecology.

What is your favourite local place to spend time?

I enjoy going to Yan Yean Reservoir for peace and quiet. I like travelling along the Murray River also.

(Joe Mastroianni)

How long have you been a member of MADRA? I have been involved with MADRA since it was formed in 2003. I am the last of the founding members still active with MADRA. Why did you join?

I first became involved with MADRA when the council and developers excluded the old township from services such as natural gas.

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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 communitycalendar@starweekly.com.au. Deadline for copy and announcements is noon Tuesday.

Beekeeping

Learn the ins and outs of beekeeping at Whittlesea library on Saturday, July 29, 10.30am-12.30pm. Sue Zuber from Buzz of the Bees will be on hand to answer questions about the legal requirements and practical aspects of keeping bees.

At 57 Laurel Street.

■ 9716 3028

La Festa di San Donato

Winter warming

Come together with friends and neighbours for a community gathering and winter feast at Mernda Village Community Activity Centre, 70 Mernda Village Drive, on Friday, July 28, 6-7pm. Enjoy performances by local musicians and Melbourne Playback Theatre, who bring stories to life. Healthy food will be available at reasonable prices, or bring your own to share. Hosted by Whittlesea council and Ausdance.

■ 9217 2172

Family history

Start researching your family tree at Whittlesea library from Tuesday, August 1.

Librarian Liz Pidgeon will be on hand to introduce you to the library’s family history resources, including British Newspapers Archive and Find My Past. At 57-61 Laurel Street, Whittlesea, from 2-3pm.

■ 9716 3028

Neighbourhood house

Pop into Thomastown Neighbourhood House, 52 Main Street, on Mondays from 6-7.30pm until August 28, to take part in

Donato and Maria Polvere with Saint San Donato statue.

(Joe Mastroianni)

community conversations. There are also makers morning drop-in sewing sessions on Thursdays from 10am-1pm, and meditation classes on Wednesdays from 10-11am.

■ 8376 6939

Jobs fair

The Melbourne North Jobs Fair brings together jobseekers, employers, work providers and industry bodies to talk about employment and career opportunities in the northern suburbs. It’s at Uni Hill Conference Centre, 30 Graduate Drive, Bundoora, on Thursday, August 3, 1-7pm.

■ 0408 340 587

NEWS

Celebrate La Festa di San Donato at St Luke’s Church, David Street, Lalor, on Sunday, August 6, 1.30-6pm. San Donato was a medieval saint famed for performing miracles, such as giving sight to the blind. The celebration has been held at the church since 1976 and is one of Whittlesea’s longest-running cultural celebrations.

■ 9217 2174

Sunday Wine Co. delivers curated wine packs to your door, so you have more time to spend with friends. Offering free metro shipping, Sunday Wine Co. is changing the experience of ordering wine online with a stylish, fun and easy-to-use website. Three readers will win a selection of three wines each, beautifully presented with a set of drink coasters (each valued at $80). www.sundaywineco.com.au To enter, click on the WIN tab at www. starweekly.com.au and follow the prompts. Entries close at 11.59pm on Sunday, July 30 and will be drawn the next day at 380 City Road, Southbank, 3006. Entrants must be over 18 years old and reside in Victoria. See our Competition Terms & Conditions for more details. All winners will be contacted direct by the prize supplier and within seven days of the winners being drawn.

Cultural afternoon

Learn about the culture and traditions of Pakistan by sharing songs and stories in Urdu at Craigieburn library, 75-95 Central Park Avenue, on Sunday, July 30, 1-3pm.

■ 9356 6980

Poppy making workshop

Join 5000 Poppies co-founder Lynn Berry at Thomastown library, 52 Main Street, on Wednesday, July 26, 10.30am-2.30pm and help crochet poppies for the Australian War Memorial. Bring a ball of red yarn and a 3mm crochet hook or knitting needles.

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13 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ JULY 25, 2017

EDUCATION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPECIAL FEATURE

Learning in the digital age T

echnology in classrooms is nothing new, but the exponential growth of digital devices – especially in the past decade – has made it a much more common part of the learning experience in Australia.

As technology has progressed in leaps and bounds, the curriculum, schools and teachers have all had to keep pace.

Joanne Blannin, a digital learning leader with the University of Melbourne’s graduate school of education, says Australian students in years 2-10 have a new digital technology curriculum to work from.

“We used to have the ICT (information communication technology) curriculum that, in the past, if you were in year 3 you could put together a PowerPoint presentation about your favourite insect and you would have achieved a successful outcome,” she says. “The difference now is students are learning about how digital systems like a Wi-Fi router works, and how it connects to the internet.”

Students also use apps to – for example – track their favourite insects, learn more about them and share the information online with classmates.

Joanne says the curriculum aims to prepare students for the future workforce – for jobs that

will likely involve technologies and require the types of skills that are being taught alongside how technology is used. They include problem solving; how to think critically, creatively and entrepreneurially; and collaborating with other students online.

Teachers are also having to study to keep up with the latest ways to use technology.

“Some schools are already working with the new curriculum easily,” Joanne says. “For others, this is brand new, with new outcomes that [many] teachers were never taught. It was not a part of their teacher education.”

Technology can be part of any STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) class, but Joanne says schools are also integrating technology throughout their curriculums.

“Schools can connect it to other parts of the curriculum,” she says.

“If they’re learning English or history or geography, then they can connect with the idea of digital systems.”

As well as devices such as laptops and smartphones, coding is becoming part of the school vernacular.

In Melbourne, some schools have started coding clubs in recent years. Many such clubs

run outside normal school hours. “In the past couple of years I’ve worked with about 600 schools across Australia – remote, private and Catholic,” Joanne says. “There are pockets of excellence … where the school and teachers are really ahead of the game.”

DOES TECHNOLOGY HELP LEARNING?

A

range of studies has shown the effectiveness, or lack thereof, of learning when technology is used in classrooms. Joanne says its benefit for students comes down to how individual teachers use technology as part of lessons.

“A laptop is an inanimate object – it is what the teacher and the student do with that object that supports student learning or not,” she says.

“For a teacher who has a real ability to teach and exciting ways to teach, [devices] seem to work really well because they’re just another tool in the teaching toolkit.

“If you are a very traditional type of teacher, who relies mainly on speaking at the students rather than working with the students, you might find teaching with technology more challenging.

“Blaming the technology [for not providing

effective learning] just doesn’t seem very useful to me because the effectiveness of it really comes down to the user,” she says.

Beyond making classes more immersive and fun, technology also makes learning more connected across the world. That means it is more purposeful, Joanne says.

Innovations include websites such as Skype in the Classroom, which has a list of scientists or experts from all around the world that teachers can ask questions or book to talk to classes.

“I had a scientist in Antarctica talk to a class on Skype and he turned the camera around to show the students the penguins out of the window,” she says.

Another time, a scientist in Arizona talked to a class in Darwin about the desert.

“Those things offer so much more than a textbook and an atlas,” Joanne says. “It’s the kind of learning they’re going to need when they leave school and enter the workforce.”

THE FUTURE OF SCHOOLS

T

he future of eduction is already here, experts say. Joanne says a lot of schools that got money under the Building the Education Revolution scheme in the past 10 years built

ENROL NOW FOR 2019 Discover new ambitions and aspire to achieve excellence at Marymede Catholic College. Applications for our 2019 intakes are now being accepted.

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60 Williamsons Road, South Morang VIC 3752 | T: +61 3 9407 9000 | F: +61 3 9407 9010 | www.marymede.vic.edu.au 14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ JULY 25, 2017

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

The global curriculum Australia is one of many countries to introduce a digital curriculum. Ours is a national curriculum, interpreted individually by each state. Britain introduced a specific coding curriculum in 2013. The US also offers web-based learning in coding and training in computer science.

Melissa Heagney

(iStock)

open-plan classroom buildings. That followed a push towards non-traditional classrooms: rooms designed for more than a teacher at the front, speaking to students.

“We know, particularly in primary school, [traditional] is not the only way that students can work in a classroom,” Joanne says.

“My doctoral research is looking at teachers who do use technology and what factors help them do that. One of the factors that’s coming out very strongly is that teachers are going to have to work far more closely together.”

She says a shared understanding of technology is necessary, because there’s no way for an individual to keep up with everything that is happening.

“Teachers need to be able to say ‘I don’t know how to do this but if someone in our team does, then we can all do it’,” she says.

More collaboration is also needed between year levels and schools, as well as work to teach to students’ skill levels and understanding, rather than age groups.

“Open-plan spaces (classrooms), if they’re used well, they can really help teachers do that,” Joanne says.

EDUCATION

Enrol Now for Year 7 2019 Applications close Friday 25 August 2017 Prospective parents and students can view the College either on a Twilight Tour or as it functions on a normal school day.

Our Lady of Mercy College 52 Cape Street Heidelberg VIC 3084 T (03) 9459 2511 | F (03) 9459 0579 W www.olmcheidelberg.catholic.edu.au A Ministry of Mercy Education Ltd ABN 69 154 531 870

Term 3 School Tours Wednesday 2 August 9-10.30am Thursday 10 August 9-10.30am Visit our Website to make a booking.

15 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ JULY 25, 2017

EDUCATION STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPECIAL FEATURE \

Learning in the digital age

Screen time S

martphones, tablets, phablets, laptops, gaming consoles and smart TVs – students have seemingly endless ways to look at screens as part of study or during their downtime.

The average Australian household has six internet-connected devices, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Surveys also show we’re spending between 46 and 65 hours a week staring at our screens. The time children aged 5-16 spend in front of screens has doubled since 1995, up from three hours a day to more than six.

This growing amount of screen time for students worries many experts, including those in the field of health. They are concerned about the possible impacts on children’s physical, social and mental wellbeing.

But the reality is that technology is so interwoven into today’s schools and classrooms that it is not as simple as telling young people to “switch off”. How can parents and students navigate screen use in healthy and productive ways?

How much is too much?

WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY The Department of Health has similar recommendations to the American Academy of Pediatrics about screen time.

The AAP recommends: • Babies from birth to 18 months avoid screen time altogether (apart from occasional video chatting).

• Children aged 2-5 should have no more than one hour of screen time per day.

• Those six and older should have consistent limits on their screen time.

But Joanne Blannin, a digital learning leader with the University of Melbourne’s graduate school of education says it’s not as simple as just enforcing time limits.

“The thing that I would ask is, ‘How do you define screen time?,” she says. “Is it watching TV, is it doing maths homework, is it programming a robot, or coding or Facetiming with grandma? Because there’s not one clear definition, it’s hard to say, ‘OK, in grade six

you should only have two hours of screen time’, because these are all very different activities.”

Joanne says research supports students being actively engaged with technology.

“Passively watching YouTube videos, that’s fine, we all need down time,” she says. “But there are many other ways to be creative and collaborative with technology, and that’s the kind of learning we want to see for our students.”

Allowing students to use technology such as laptops and tablets enables them to be involved in online projects and collaborate with other children in games such as Minecraft, in which players can build and create together.

This encourages creativity and teaches students to work with others to solve problems – which will be necessary skills for the future workforce.

But the downside of too much screen time can include not getting enough physical activity, leading to obesity and other health-related issues, such as poor mental health or interrupted sleep.

“To avoid difficulties with sleep, we need to

manage the use of devices in the bedroom,” Joanne says. “If your 15-year-old is sleeping with a phone in their bedroom, that’s probably not a great idea.”

Setting boundaries Joanne says setting boundaries for children and teenagers is one of the best ways to allow them to use their devices but also get the sleep and physical activity they require to stay healthy.

Parents already set boundaries for such things as what their children wear and eat.

Screen time should be part of that.

“Parents tend to think they’re in control of the technology their children are using, but children can figure out how to do what they want to do,” Joanne says. “[Parents] need to come up with a family media plan for how and when their children use devices at home – and stick to it.”

Melissa Heagney More information: » healthychildren.org/English/media

St Monica’s College, Epping LEARNING IS DELIVERED AT ITS BEST THROUGH COEDUCATION!

There are many reasons why: • Being together throughout the day, feelings of comradeship and friendships develop in a natural way between girls and boys • Breaks down sexist attitudes in both genders • Boys and girls learn in a natural classroom environment, not sheltered away from each other • In a classroom setting, both female and male perspectives are explored • Coeducation reflects 100% the diversity of society.

Coeducation, in other words, IS the real world • Humans live in a coeducational world and consequently enjoying the coeducation experience in school years should form a holistic person, confident and wise Enrolments for Year 7, 2019 close on Friday 25 August, 2017.

For further information about enrolment please contact the College Registrar on 9409 8444.

16 Davisson Street, Epping VIC 3076 16 Davisson Street, Epping VIC 3076 Phone: 8800 • Fax: 9408 7531 Phone: 94099409 8800 • Fax: 9408 7531 admin@stmonicas-epping.com Email:Email: admin@stmonicas-epping.com Web: www.stmonicas-epping.com Web: www.stmonicas-epping.com 16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ JULY 25, 2017

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

EDUCATION

TIPS FOR DEVICE USE AT HOME Know what your children are doing online – are they watching five hours of YouTube or are they creating collaboratively in Minecraft? It’s easier to make screen-time decisions based on what they’re doing.

2

Make time for kids to do other things. Parents need to drive this by ensuring their children are getting outdoors and getting involved in sport and other activities.

3

Be mindful of your child’s posture and eye strain. If they’re on the iPad and lying upside down on the couch, it’s not great for their spine.

Likewise, staring at a screen for long periods without a break is not good for anyone’s eyes.

4

Make sure technology is used in a public space in the house, especially while children are younger. That means you can keep an eye on what your child is up to.

5

Make sure your children are the proper minimum age to be on Facebook and Instagram (13, according to guidelines for both). Aside from the obvious risks of being on social media while too young, it can also mean they are exposed to advertising meant for someone much older.

‘‘

If your 15-year-old is sleeping with a phone in their bedroom, that’s probably not a great idea

’’

(iStock)

1

– Joanne Blannin \ digital learning leader

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For further informa�on, please call the school on (03) 5782 2211, email info@kilmore.vic.edu.au or visit our website on www.kilmore.vic.edu.au.

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17 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ JULY 25, 2017

Where caring is a way of life Dr Steven Hatzikostas is no ordinary obstetrician and gynaecologist. He’s a high-ranking specialist who provides patients with his personal mobile number so they can call him if the need arises – any time, day or night.

T

his is a clear signpost to his level of commitment to care excellence.

“Delivering babies is a focus of my life, it’s not just a job – it’s a way of life,” Dr Hatzikostas. “I love what I do – everything is wholehearted.”

An obstetrician dedicated to complete service, Dr Hatzikostas cares for every patient personally and strives to be present at every single birth. He puts himself on the spot to share the experience, attend to any complications and to offer well-grounded advice and care.

“I believe strongly in private practice care, where women aren’t shuffled between doctors or given zip-in, zip-out consultations,” he says.

“Women need to feel confident about their pregnancy and delivery care … I treat consultations as a time to carefully explain every aspect and encourage questions. It’s really personalised care of a high order.”

The doctor’s approach has been consistent throughout his many years of practice. He says it’s a part of him, who he is as a person and physician.

His credentials are impressive.

While studying for his medical degree at Melbourne University, he concurrently gained a masters degree in science and published research carried out at the Howard Florey Institute of Experimental Physiology and Medicine.

He trained in internal medicine for many years at Royal Melbourne Hospital before

Dr Steven Hatzikostas matches a wealth of experience with high levels of communication. (Pictures: Supplied)

starting his specialist training in obstetrics and gynaecology. Following experience in England, he worked as consultant obstetrician at Royal Women’s, Northern and Box Hill hospitals for many years.

Dr Hatzikostas aims to establish a high level of communication with his patients.

“I often use simple diagrams to explain medical conditions and management,” he says. “When it’s appropriate, I provide brochures and even algorithms of treatment

plans. In all cases, every patient has a comprehensive understanding of processes, with evidence-based explanations and risk/ benefit analyses of alternative treatment options.”

Gynaecological care is based on proven methods, so Dr Hatzikostas will resort to surgical treatment options if conservative measures fail or are found to be inappropriate.

“My approach empowers women to

be in the driver’s seat,” Dr Hatzikostas says. “Their concerns are never fobbed off or dismissed and, together, we form a partnership to achieve optimum outcomes.”

Dr Hatzikostas consults at Northpark Private Hospital, Suite 3, 135 Plenty Road, Bundoora, and Neal Street Medical Clinic, 5 Neal Street, Gisborne.

Inquiries: 9467 9444 or visit www.drstevenhatzikostas.com.au

OBSTETRICIAN & GYNAECOLOGIST M.Sc., M.B.B.S., F.R.A.N.Z.C.O.G.

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SPORT Second half blitz seals the game for Bulls

Bundoora’s Joseph Palazzolo slides in for a mark. (Damian Visentini)

A blistering second half was enough to secure a fourth straight win for Bundoora, proving far too strong for Eltham in the Northern Football League’s top division.

While the two sides went into the game at opposite ends of the ladder, Eltham took the fight up to Bundoora on the Bulls home deck but ran out of legs late as the home side took a 16.17 (113)-7.3 (45) victory.

In difficult conditions, and with a strong wind blowing, Bundoora had twice as many scoring shots as its opponents but missed some good opportunities as it led by just nine points at quarter-time.

A wasteful 2.6 in the second term meant Eltham remained in the contest at the long break, but the two goal margin to that point would be as close as the visitors would get. A 5.6 to 2.1 third quarter put the result beyond

doubt, while a final quarter barrage of 5.3 was made all the better by stopping Eltham from registering a score.

Gary Moorcroft continued his strong recent form with five goals, while Josh Grabowski was one of the best on the ground and picked up four goals himself.

With Northcote Park going down in a big loss to top-placed Macleod, Bundoora now sit equal second on points, just percentage behind Northcote Park in a logjam at the top of the table.

Elsewhere, Whittlesea grabbed a confidence-boosting win over Montmorency to give it hope of a late season move up the table.

Going into the round just percentage off the bottom of the ladder, Whittlesea staged a second-half comeback to grab its fourth win

Fade-out proves costly

By Ewen McRae A bad 15 minutes in the second quarter ultimately cost Westmeadows in its clash with Hillside on Saturday, with the home side falling to a 29-point loss.

While the two teams sit at opposite ends of the Essendon District Football League division one ladder, Westmeadows was able to take first use of a strong breeze to take an early lead in the contest.

The nine-point buffer at quarter-time may have been greater had the home side kicked a little straighter, with just two majors coming from eight scoring shots, but at the other end it was able to contain the powerful Sharks forwards to just one goal.

However, the tide turned viciously in the second quarter, with Hillside making full use of the wind to slam on ten goals to blow the game wide open.

With one of its youngest sides for the year on the park, Westmeadows had no answers to the onslaught, according to coach David Connell.

“We went away from everything that we wanted to do for ten minutes in that second quarter, and that ultimately cost us,” Connell said. “It probably made the game look worse than it was, because I thought we played quite well for most of it.

“We had five guys out from the week before, three midfielders, our main forward and our main back, so we knew we were going to be up against it with an inexperienced side, and that lack of senior blokes cost us with some inconsistencies.”

The final scoreline of 16.17 (113)-7.14 (56) showed the gap between the two sides, but Westmeadows was able to prevent a final quarter blowout, matching the Sharks on the scoreboard despite kicking into the wind.

While the lack of senior players on the park hurt Westmeadows on the day, Connell said he was impressed with some of his under 19s.

“Corey Field played his first game and played 100 per cent game time down back, and only had one goal kicked on him, so he did a great job for us,” Connell said.

“Young Josh Hale had probably his third game for the seniors in three or four years and probably played his best game, and Jordan Hollow from the under 19s was our best goalkicker with three, so there were some encouraging signs out there.”

Elsewhere, Greenvale held onto top spot on the premier division ladder with a convincing 41-point win over Maribyrnong Park.

The Jets kept the Lions to just 29 points for the game as they strode to a 9.16 (70)-3.11 (29) win.

Craigieburn remain winless this season following an 85-point loss to Aberfeldie.

22 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ JULY 25, 2017

of the season, 12.13 (85)-7.16 (58). Early in the game it looked to be going to the pre-game script, with Montmorency taking a two-goal lead into the first break and holding it into half-time.

But Whittlesea came out in the third term with a purpose, and four unanswered goals swung momentum firmly in the Eagles favour.

Montmorency kicked a wasteful 0.7 for that term, and while it was marginally better in the last quarter with 2.2, the Eagles could sense a win and kicked five goals to seal the win.

Brenton Briffa and Janan Daniel kicked three goals each for Whittlesea to be among the Eagles most influential players.

With five games to play, Whittlesea moved a game clear of relegation.

Ewen McRae

Sports shorts Northern Football League

Lalor was only able to match it with Fitzroy Stars for a quarter as it was blown away after the first break in its division two clash. Trailing by just a goal at quarter-time, Lalor conceded 19 goals to four in the following three terms and fell to a crushing 22.18 (150)-7.6 (48) defeat. Meanwhile Thomastown was shown just how big the gap is between the top four and the rest as it went down to Lower Plenty in their match up. Going into the game on the same number of wins, but with vastly different percentage, Thomastown conceded seven unanswered goals in the first quarter and never got back in the hunt as it fell to a disappointing 22.15 (147)- 7.7 (49) loss. The Bears remain fifth on the ladder.

Soccer

Whittlesea United consolidated its place at the top of the state league three north-west ladder on Saturday, handing second-placed Brimbank Stallions its second straight loss. With the two sides just one point apart on the ladder going into the contest it was a pivotal game in the context of the season, and it was the home side which proved far more effective up forward all day. United held a one goal lead at half-time, and two more unanswered goals in the second sealed the points to move them four points clear of the Stallions with just a handful of games to play.

Basketball

Hume City’s Championship women’s side flexed its muscle in its clash with Warrandyte on Saturday, running away with a 57-point hammering. The Broncos were in control all game, allowing them to share the minutes around the full squad on their way to a 89-32 win. Every player in the squad got some valuable court time, and all bar one player hit the scoreboard, with Colleen Planeta a clear standout with 26 points, 11 rebounds and five assists. The fifth-placed Broncos will take on tenth-placed Diamond Valley this weekend as they look to build on their strong recent form in the run towards finals.

FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklysport @star_weekly Hillside’s Oskar Brown spoils Brock Heathcote on Saturday. (Shawn Smits)

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Cannons find form at right time

By Ewen McRae Calder Cannons may have won just their fourth game of the season last week, but they remain firmly in the hunt for a TAC Cup finals berth.

With the evenness of the competition coming to the fore more than ever before this year, the Cannons are now just percentage adrift of the top eight, and two games away from a home final with five games to play.

Calder coach Andrew Johnston said the side was seeing the benefits of finding some form as the season has gone on.

“We struggled a bit early on, probably only one win in the first half of the year,” Johnston said.

“But the last couple of months have been a lot better, and the whole competition is about improving and that’s come through for us in recent times.

“It now gives us an opportunity to maybe sneak into the eight, the sides aren’t far ahead of us now, but we can’t really look too far past Oakleigh in the next game.”

The final game before the bye gave fans a chance to see what the Cannons were capable of, running over the top of top four side Murray

Calder Cannons coach Andrew Johnston says his side can still make an impact this season.

(Marco De Luca)

Bushrangers on their home deck. Johnston said it could be a turning point for his side.

“It gives the boys some belief,” he said.

“If the boys play like that more often, in games and then week on week, then you give

yourself every opportunity of making an impact. We knew we had a strong bottom-age group, and in the TAC Cup it’s all about how quickly you learn and adjust, so we knew if things started to click that we could be around

Eagles show true grit to keep finals alive Craigieburn came through its weekend of Big V division two with a perfect two win result, but it was not without its nervous moments.

Taking on Wallan on Saturday and Camberwell on Sunday made it a big weekend for the Eagles, and they stood up in the big moments to keep their place near the top of the table.

Craigieburn coach Simon Wilson knew the importance of the weekend in the context of their season.

“We needed both wins to secure a spot in the top four, and with top two getting the first week of the finals off it was important for us,” Wilson said.

“Both games were gritty, and we just managed to make our shots when we needed them.”

The Wallan game on Saturday night was closer than the 93-83 scoreline suggests, with the Eagles making a number of shots in the home stretch to increase the margin by the final whistle.

There was a high load placed on the Eagles key players, with Dexter Graham (28 points, 17 rebounds) and captain Liam Watt (29 points) both playing 40 minutes to ensure their side took home the win.

In Sunday’s game it went right down to the wire, with some clutch plays by the experienced players in the Eagles squad proving telling in the final result.

The lead switched multiple times throughout the contest, with Graham (16 points, nine rebounds) again crucial to the contest, and Blake Dickinson (18 points, 10 rebounds) and Jae Dickinson (18 points, eight rebounds) lifting when the side needed them.

Scores were locked at 81 apiece just moments left in the game when Watt was fouled to send him to the free-throw line with 0.2 seconds on the clock.

He made the first free throw to secure the win, 82-81.

Wilson said his side was starting to come together nicely with just this weekend’s match against Altona to play before finals.

“Our goal at the start of the season was to be there at the end and play finals, so we’ve ticked one box off,” he said.

“It’s exciting to be there and play finals, and from there it is anyone’s game.

“Hopefully the hard work that we’ve put in this season pays off, and as long as we turn up and are focused we give ourselves every chance.

“If we want it more than the other teams we can definitely go out and compete in these finals.”

Ewen McRae

the finals mark and that’s the way it looks now.”

While the side is focusing on getting one of the coveted finals places, AFL recruiters are gearing up for another busy draft season.

Johnstone said there were a number of players he believed would be picked up in either the national or rookie drafts in November, chief among them Noah Balta, who is predicted to go high.

“His [Balta] athletic ability is very good, and he can play up forward, down back, and in the ruck so his versatility is very high,” Johnston said. “He’s a sensational player, so if he’s not picked in the top 20 then recruiters don’t know what they’re talking about.

“Guys like Brad Bernacki, with his contested ball winning and leadership, stand out to be at least rookied, and Aidan Tilley as a 19-year-old has really come on this year and we think he’s got the pedigree to handle AFL. “And then there’s Mitch Podhajski who played Vic Metro and showed his run and defensive attributes against South Australia, and has shown he can go forward with us so he’s versatile too.”

Calder Cannons will resume their season against ladder leaders Oakleigh this Saturday.

Hume stung by early strikes A double strike by ladder leaders South Melbourne in the first half was too much for Hume City to recover from, as it fell to a 2-1 loss in the NPL on Saturday night.

With Souths looking to consolidate top spot it was always going to be a tough contest for Hume, but it was not without its chances early as Theodore Markelis and Jayden Prasad both had good scoring chances in the opening 20 minutes, and goalkeeper Michael Weier made a diving save at the other end.

The visiting South Melbourne opened the scoring in the 25th minute after a penalty was awarded against Hayden Tennant, and doubled its advantage ten minutes later to take a stranglehold on the game.

A late chance just before half-time was cleared by the Souths defence and they took a two goal lead into half-time.

After the break the home side wasted little time in clawing its way back into the game as Prasad scored just four minutes after the resumption to give the home side a sniff.

Hume City controlled much of the play in the second half, but despite some good looks at goal by Atilla Ofli and Liam Boland was unable to find the equaliser.

Three corners in stoppage time gave Hume City its best chances, but on a windy night it was hard to control the set play and Souths held on for the win.

Hume City sit eighth on the table, with the chance to move up when it takes on seventh-placed Oakleigh on Friday night.

In NPL2 West action, Whittlesea Ranges scored an upset 2-0 win over second-placed Moreland Zebras.

A brace to Jacob Colosimo proved the difference in the contest as they handed the Zebras just their fourth loss of the season, and kept the Ranges ahead of Melbourne Victory on the ladder.

Colosimo opened the scoring after 15 minutes, and doubled the lead 15 minutes into the second half, while some strong defence all day meant a clean sheet for the visiting Ranges.

Whittlesea will look to complete the Moreland double when it faces third placed Moreland City this Saturday.

Craigieburn captain Liam Watt stood up in the big moments at the weekend. (Shawn Smits)

Ewen McRae 23 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ JULY 25, 2017