Nsw 20171219 by Star Weekly

DECEMBER 19, 2017 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS + SPORT + PROPERTY GUIDE

(Marco De Luca)

Santa Claus is coming to town

LIEUTENANT JASON SMITH, SANTA, LIEUTENANT DANIEL CACHIA AND FIREFIGHTER CHRIS TAYLOR

Santa is trading in his sleigh and reindeer for a fire truck as he makes his way around Mernda this weekend. With the help of the Mernda CFA, the big man in red will be visiting parks south of Bridge Inn Road on Saturday night and north of Bridge Inn Road on Sunday night. Mernda CFA’s Dean Castle said the annual Santa run is organised by the brigade to help spread Christmas cheer in the community. “The kids absolutely love it. They take photos with Santa and we hand out lollies,” he said. For details on where Santa will be visiting, go to www.merndacfa.com Laura Michell

Crime stats on the slide By Laura Michell Crime is on the decline in Whittlesea and Hume, led by a significant decrease in the number of break-ins and burglaries, latest crime data shows. September quarter data from the Crime Statistics Agency revealed that both Whittlesea and Hume recorded a 17 per cent drop in burglaries between September 2016 and September this year. In Whittlesea, there were 1554 burglaries between July and September this year 12360661-PB32-17

compared to 1877 during the same period last year. In Hume, 2076 burglaries were recorded, compared in 2306 in September, 2016. Whittlesea Inspector Andrew Falconer said the latest crime data was good news for residents. Inspector Falconer said police understood that burglary was the crime that worried residents the most. “We have had a focus on those offenders who are repeat offenders and that is now paying off,” he said. “We have been holding them to account.

“We’re working harder than ever before to put recidivist burglars before the courts.” Inspector Falconer warned people not to be complacent about security over summer. “I want to remind people coming into the warmer months not to leave windows and doors open and valuables lying around,” he said. “We still have a significant number of burglaries where people are walking in through an open door.” According to the latest data, overall crime fell 2.5 per cent in Whittlesea.

In Hume, offences fell 11 per cent. Both municipalities recorded drops in theft and drug offences, with robberies also on the decline in Hume. Hume recorded a slight drop in family violence offences, with reports down 1.8 per cent from September 2016, while offences were up just 0.2 per cent in Whittlesea. Inspector Falconer said Whittlesea police will launch a targeted response team in January, which will focus on number plate thefts. Police data shows that thefts of number plates spiked in January each year.

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Council acts on kinder squeeze By Laura Michell Relocatable buildings will be added to two Hume preschools as the council battles to meet demand for kindergarten places. The council, with the help of the Department of Education and Training, will add the buildings to Craigieburn’s Newbury Community Centre and Roxburgh Park’s Bluebird Way Child and Family Centre. The buildings will be in place for the start of the school year and will add 132 places. They will cost $1.74 million, with the council

to contribute $400,000. The rest of the money will come from Growth Area Infrastructure Contribution funding. A report to last week’s council meeting said the council had received 1013 requests for places in Craigieburn. However the suburb’s preschools have a capacity for 944 children. Newbury Community Centre’s kindergarten is bearing the brunt of the growth, receiving 408 requests for 231 places. In Roxburgh Park, 13 children are on the waiting list. “Throughout 2017, a significant growth in the demand for Newbury preschool and other

‘‘

This will create 132 places for families

’’

- Carly Moore

preschools in the northern growth corridor has been monitored and led council officers to advocate to the state government for assistance in meeting this demand,” the report stated. Cr Carly Moore said the relocatable buildings would allow the council to extend its preschool provisions in Craigieburn and Roxburgh Park.

“This will create 132 places for families who may have otherwise been unable to be accommodated,” she said. “It will ensure all children have access to quality education in the year before school.” The council plans to open four preschools in the next eight years. According to the report, Aitken Hill Community Centre preschool at Craigieburn South will open in 2019. A preschool will open at Greenvale West in 2020 and at Merrifield northern hub in 202. It is hoped a Cloverton preschool will open in 2025.

(Shawn Smits)

Expansion just the right medicine

ATUL YAMDAGNI

Better to try your luck at Mill Park Mill Park has been revealed as a lotto hot spot. The suburb recorded the highest number of division one-winning entries in Victoria this year, with four entries netting more than $9 million in prize money. The Mill Park Newsagency also had the honour of selling one of the largest division one-winning entries in 2017, with a ticket sold in November picking up $6 million. Owner Atul Yamdagni said the newsagency had seen a surge in customers since the win. “When you sell a division one winner, people

start coming in to the store more,” he said. “I think people are attracted to the thrill of lotto.” Data from Tatts reveals that between December 2016 and November this year, Victorian lottery players shared in 141 division one prizes and pocketed more than $216 million. The state had the highest number of division one wins nationally. Tatts spokeswoman Bronnie Spencer said it was important to remember that the lottery was a game of luck. “While it’s exciting to reveal where the most

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lotto wins occur, it’s important to remember that lottery games are entertaining games of chance and every number on your ticket has an equal chance of being drawn, no matter where you buy your ticket,” she said. “We’ve seen clusters of division one wins in certain areas in each state, these vary from year to year and in 2017 we’ve seen division one wins land far and wide across Victoria in both metropolitan and regional areas.”

Two hundred new jobs have been created in Broadmeadows following the expansion of a world-class medical manufacturing plant. Global biotherapeutics company CSL opened the $230 million extension to its Broadmeadows plant earlier this month, where it will manufacture albumin – a protein derived from human plasma used in critical care to treat burns and shock. CSL expects the facility to produce therapies valued at $850 million, with plans to export products to the US and Europe, while also producing products for the local market. Chief executive Paul Perreault said the new jobs would be created by 2026. “CSL’s investment in Broadmeadows embeds the site into our global plasma manufacturing supply chain, which now supplies lifesaving therapies to patients in more than 60 countries,” he said. Industry and Employment Minister Ben Carroll said the expansion was supported by the state government. “Not only will this new facility produce life-saving medicine but it will also create hundreds of new jobs for Victoria,” he said. Broadmeadows MP Frank McGuire said the expansion would secure the future of the people currently employed at the site. “CSL’s significant investment will save lives, enhance Victoria’s reputation as an international leader in medical research and adds jobs to the almost 1000 people employed at the Broadmeadows site,” he said. Laura Michell

Laura Michell

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Town hall works under way

PHONE \ 03 8318 5777

Work has started on the redevelopment of the Broadmeadows Town Hall. The work, which is part of the Broadmeadows Revitalisation Project, will involve redeveloping the hall to include a large multi-purpose hall, meeting rooms, conference facilities, a gallery and spaces for businesses.

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Melbourne Victory players Besart Berisha, Kosta Barbarouses and former player Archie Thompson at The Northern Hospital with Harrison, 2. (Shawn Smits) REAL ESTATE SALES DIRECTOR \ JACK GILLESPIE jgillespie@starweekly.com.au ACCOUNT MANAGER DOMENIC SGAMBELLONE \ dsgambellone@starweekly.com.au DISTRIBUTION \ 46,129 copies

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Victory for sick children Children’s ward patients at The Northern Hospital received an early Christmas surprise last week, with Melbourne Victory players visiting the ward. Players Besart Berisha and Kosta Barbarouses joined club ambassador Archie Thompson at the hospital last Wednesday to help bring some festive cheer to the children’s ward. The trio met with patients and their families, posed for photographs and signed autographs. Thompson, who has made a number of visits to the hospital over the years, said meeting and spending time with such courageous kids

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was a privilege. “Being able to bring a smile to so many faces is a truly special experience,” he said. Northern Health chief executive Siva Sivarajah said the visit was a welcome boost for patients, their families and hospital staff. “We appreciate the players taking time out of their busy mid-season schedule to spread Christmas cheer throughout the hospital,” he said. “Having the players here provides a real lift to the spirits of some very sick children.” Laura Michell

Police are appealing for information after a woman was robbed in Broadmeadows last month. The 56-year-old woman was set upon by three women outside a shopping centre on Widford Street just before midnight on November 20. The victim was dragged from her car and the offenders demanded she hand over her keys but they were unable to start her car. They left the scene with the victim’s bag containing $5000, her phone and bank card. The card was used by two men at a convenience store in Glenroy about 12.30am. Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000.

Business award

A Thomastown business has been recognised at the recent Northern Business Achievement Awards. Stainless Services, which specialised in the fabrication and installation of purpose built equipment for food and beverage manufacturing businesses, won the Human Resources Award. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @nstarweekly @star_weekly

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Whittlesea wants new freeway By Laura Michell Whittlesea residents overwhelmingly want a freeway from Thomastown to Beveridge and they want it to happen as soon as possible, according to a recent council survey. More than 1000 residents took part in the council’s E6 traffic corridor study in September and October, with the majority calling for the 11-kilometre road from the Metropolitan Ring Road to the Hume freeway and future outer ring road at Beveridge to be built as a freeway.

Almost 90 per cent of respondents said it was important the road be designed with overpasses and underpasses instead of traffic lights, while almost 84 per cent said it was important that the road be designed for free flowing traffic at high speed. The council conducted the survey in response to a petition from 514 residents who were calling for the E6 to be built as a freeway. The council has long supported the E6 as an arterial road, believing it would improve north-south travel through the municipality.

The survey also revealed that residents wanted the road built in the immediate future. More than 86 per cent of respondents said they would use the road. Those who lived within one kilometre of the E6 corridor mostly still preferred the road to be a freeway but raised concerns about loss of amenity, noise impacts and property values. Residents who opposed the freeway idea lived predominantly within one kilometre of the corridor. Mayor Kris Pavlidis said the survey’s

participation rate was one of the highest on a community issue. She said the council would consider the results of the survey early next year. “It is important to remember that while the survey indicates a strong preference for the E6 to be a freeway, it is ultimately up to the state government,” Cr Pavlidis said. “Council can certainly pass on our research to the state government and lobby to get it built. “We understand traffic congestion is a major issue in the City of Whittlesea.”

Turf time as grant helps club Craigieburn’s VI Foster Reserve will be brought back to match condition with the help of a grant from McEwen MP Rob Mitchell. The grant, which was awarded to Craigieburn Cricket Club as part of the Stronger Communities Program, will allow the club to include a turf wicket at the reserve and buy maintenance equipment. The funding will be matched by in-kind donations and money raised by the club. Mr Mitchell said the club’s work would coincide with upgrades being carried out at the reserve by Hume council. “These upgrades will mean many of our teams can stay right here in Craigieburn for their home matches, participate in the club activities after the game and generally make life easier at Craigieburn Cricket Club,” he said.

McEwen MP Rob Mitchell with representatives from Craigieburn Cricket Club. (Supplied).

Laura Michell

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Road upgrade to improve safety By Laura Michell Two Whittlesea roads will face a construction blitz next year with early works on the Plenty and Yan Yean roads upgrades under way. Work to improve Yan Yean Road between Diamond Creek Road and Kurrack Road began last week, while the detailed design and relocation of utilities has started along Plenty Road. Major construction works will start on both roads in the new year. The $139.4 million Plenty Road upgrade will add an extra lane in each direction along a 2.8 kilometre section between McKimmies Road

and Bush Boulevard, as well as the installation of new safety barriers and on-road cycling lanes. There will also be safety improvements to the intersections at McKimmies Road, Mayfield Drive, Childs Road, Rivergum Drive, Bush Boulevard and Centenary Drive. Buses will be given priority at some intersections, while the centre median will be preserved for the future extension of the route 86 tram from Bundoora to South Morang. The work is expected to be finished by late 2018. Roads Minister Luke Donnellan said the

government was also planning to upgrade Plenty Road between Bush Boulevard and Bridge Inn Road. “We know drivers are sick of being stuck in traffic on Plenty Road, that’s why we’re starting early works to cut congestion and boost safety along this key route,” he said. Yan Yean Road will be widened from one lane to two in each direction, while the intersections at Diamond Creek Road, Memorial Drive and River Avenue will be upgraded. The upgrade will also include a continuous centre median to prevent head-on crashes, straightening the road to improve driver

visibility and new service roads to allow residents to access their properties safely. There will also be new off-road cycling and pedestrian paths along the road. The work is expected to be finished in mid-2019. Yan Yean MP Danielle Green said the upgrade would bring a safety boost for motorists. “The growth we’ve seen in the north has put enormous pressure on Yan Yean Road – a vital link connection communities in Plenty, Yarrambat and Doreen – and this important upgrade will bring much needed relief to locals,” she said.

Salvos call for donations Families struggling to make ends meet this Christmas are turning to the Craigieburn Salvation Army for help. Captain Peter Brookshaw said more than 270 families had contacted the Salvos for support. He said the organisation was able to help families with food, vouchers and toys, but it was unable to help as many people as it would like. “The challenge we have is there are more families looking for support than our capacity to help,” Mr Brookshaw said. “We want to help as many people as we can but we have limited resources.” The Salvos have set up a gift wrapping service at Craigieburn Central to help boost their resources. The service will run in the shopping centre’s Target quandrant until Christmas eve.

Shoppers can have their presents gift wrapped for a donation. Mr Brookshaw said anyone wanting to lend a hand to families in need could also donate food or toys to the Salvation Army via the gift wrapping stall or at 75 Interlink Drive, Craigieburn. “We can assure anyone who wants to donate food that we can distribute it just as fast as they donate it,” he said. Laura Michell

Salvation Army captain Peter Brookshaw and volunteer Leah Robinson. (Marco De Luca)

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Ambo planning is slow-going By Laura Michell Craigieburn is no closer to getting its second ambulance station, 12 months after the station was announced by the government. Ambulance Services Minister Jill Hennessy announced the new station on November 27 last year, as part of a $500 million investment in ambulance services across the state. At the time, the government said it was yet to decide on a location for the station. Twelve months on, the location is still not known.

Last week, a spokeswoman for Ms Hennessy told Star Weekly the government was working with Ambulance Victoria to determine the best site. “We are currently undertaking a feasibility analysis of a number of potential sites, and we’ll be making further announcements when the analysis has been completed,” the spokeswoman said. The new state-of-the-art station will be in addition to Craigieburn’s existing ambulance station on Lygon Drive. It will feature a drive-in, drive-out garage

bay for vehicles, rest areas, training rooms, bedrooms, modern amenities and a fully-fitted kitchen. Ms Hennessy said the new station would help paramedics to respond more quickly to emergencies. “In a medical emergency, every second saves lives. That’s why we’re ensuring people in Craigieburn get the right emergency care, quickly, when they need it,” she said. Ambulance Victoria data revealed that in the three months to September this year, the average code one ambulance response time

in Hume was 12.16 minutes, down from 14 minutes in September last year. Ambulance Victoria aims to arrive at code one emergencies within 15 minutes. However, paramedics responded to just 78.7 per cent of code one emergencies in Hume within the target. Earlier this year, the government fast-tracked the allocation of a new paramedic team to Craigieburn. The team of 14 is a mix of graduate and experienced paramedics and was allocated to the station to boost response times.

Theatre of employment A pilot program using theatre to teach English to refugees has shared in more than $343,000 in community grants from Hume council. Not-for-profit group EQubed, in conjunction with Broadmeadows Performing Arts, received $3500 from the council to develop the six-month pilot program that will use performing arts to promote the learning of English as an Additional Language among Hume’s new arrivals. Broadmeadows Performing Arts’ Damien Pree said he came up with the idea for the program after talking with new arrivals about their experiences learning English. “A number of students talk about how they get a lot of opportunities to read and write English but they are looking for ways to listen and practise their English,” he said. “The big issue for many refugees and migrants is that until they have a good understanding of English, it is very difficult for them to make

money and be employed. “I want to find ways to use performing arts to assist in English acquisition so we can reduce the time it takes for refugees to become employed.” The council issued grants to 150 other local organisations, including Campbellfield’s Second Chance Animal Rescue, which plans to use the money to develop an outreach program to support community members to take care of their pets; and the Gladstone Park Senior Citizens Club, which will use the money to engage more seniors in activities. Mayor Geoff Porter said the grants helped local groups to deliver services. “These organisations help make our community vibrant, and many of their activities would not be possible without some financial support,” he said, Laura Michell

Broadmeadows Performing Arts’ Damien Pree with student Rafael. (Supplied)

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MY PLACE Maureen Rundell spent 30 years in the Australian Army Reserves, training officers for their military driving licence. These days, she is a member of the Mernda Rail Extension’s community reference group. She speaks with Laura Michell. How long have you lived in Whittlesea? I have lived in South Morang since 2011, so almost seven years. We retired here. My aim was always to go to a retirement village and Arilla is central to all my children. Where did you live before? We lived in Diamond Creek for 37 years. You spent almost 30 years in the Australian Army Reserves. Tell us about your role. I was a transport sergeant and trained and tested officers for their military driving licence. I grew up wanting to drive trucks but it was the wrong generation and the wrong era. So, when I was 32 and my children were at school, I decided it was something I still wanted to do. It also allowed me to serve my country. That was something I always wanted to do, but being a girl, my parents didn’t want me to. (Marco De Luca)

What do you like about Whittlesea? I like this area because I feel really safe. Also the shopping centre and transport are close by. Obviously the new rail line is quite important to us. What, if anything, would you like to change?

Are you involved in any community groups?

I would like for the Route 86 tram to be extended up to South Morang and for public transport to be improved and the roads to be expanded a bit.

I was on the committee at Arilla as secretary for five years but I retired from that this year. I am still actively involved in the crafts stall and social activities. I became involved in the

community reference group for the Mernda Rail Extension in 2014 when it was first announced that the rail extension would be built. I live in a retirement village that backs onto the train line and I became involved so I could put the views of people in the village to

the group. Where is you favourite place to spend time? If I am going out for a coffee or a quick meal, I like to go to the Coffee Club at Plenty Valley.

SEASON’S GREETINGS The staff at Star Weekly wishes all our readers and customers a happy, safe Christmas and a prosperous New Year. We’ve enjoyed bringing you the best local news coverage in the region and look forward to bringing it to you in 2018. The last edition for 2017 will be Tuesday 19th of December. Our first edition for 2018 will be published on Tuesday 23rd of January Our office will close at 12 noon Tuesday 19th of December 2017 and re-open Tuesday 2nd of January 2018.

8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ DECEMBER 19, 2017

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

Walk through Bethlehem

Take a walk through Bethlehem and celebrate the meaning of Christmas on Thursday, December 21 to Saturday, December 23 at St Peter’s School, 32 Wedge Street, Epping, from 7pm. Entry by donation. ■ 0477 942 254

Summer reading club

Read as many books as you can this summer to win great prizes as part of the Hume libraries Summer Reading Club. Running until January 31, the reading club is open to young people aged up to 17. Visit your local branch to sign up. ■ www.humelibraries.vic.gov.au

Make a sock puppet

Mernda carols

Create your own sock puppet and put on a puppet show at Whittlesea library, 57 Laurel Street, on Thursday, January 11, 11am-noon. Bring your own old sock. Bookings essential. ■ 9716 3028

WIN THIS Have you ever found a painting so enticing that you wanted to jump right in it? Now you can at Artvo Immersive Gallery. Interact with more than 100 spectacular 3D artworks for the ultimate selfie opportunity. Here’s your chance to win one of 10 family passes for Friday or Saturday night entry. http://artvo.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, January 7 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.

(iStock)

Warm up your vocal chords for the Mernda Community Carols on Christmas Eve. Santa and the CFA will be making a special appearance. At Mernda Village Green, Galloway Drive, from 6.30-8.30pm. ■ 0430 505 593

NEWS

Learn coding

Learn the basics of coding and complete fun tasks like performing commands or creating your own games on Thursday, January 11 at Craigieburn library, 75 Central Park Avenue, 3-5pm. ■ 9356 6980

Stained glass craft

Visit The Age Library on Monday, January 8, to create your own colourful paper

stained-glass design to display at home. At 1093 Pascoe Vale Road, Broadmeadows. ■ 9356 6900

At 2A May Road. Bookings essential. ■ 9465 2353

Chemistry challenge

Join the kids sewing club at Thomastown library on Wednesday, January 10, 10.30am-12.30pm. Material and machines provided. At 52 Main Street. ■ 9464 1864

Make a trip to Lalor library’s chemistry lab on Wednesday, January 10, 2-3.30pm to learn about chemical reactions and create invisible ink, crazy putty and glowing water.

Kids sewing club

If you live in a suburb near grasslands, you’re at risk of fire. If you live directly next to parks or paddocks and a fire starts, walk at least two streets back. If you live two or more streets away, stay where you are. Grassfires are unlikely to spread into built up areas. Stay alert and monitor conditions. Don’t drive, visibility may be poor, accidents are likely, and you could block emergency services.

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This delightful replica terrace in Rivergum estate perches opposite one of the prettiest spots around – Plenty Gorge Parklands, with Plenty River, shady picnic and barbecue areas, walking tracks and wildlife forming an idyllic “front garden”. It’s also close to all the action – South Morang station, Uni Hill Town Centre and Westfield are less than 10 minutes away, and bus and tram stops, cafes and shops are even closer. Starting on the house’s first floor, there

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are three grey-carpeted fitted bedrooms, separate toilet and the gleaming main bathroom with white tiling and charcoal vanity bench. The large main bedroom up here has a walk-in robe and similarly decorated en suite with the indulgence of a spa. It also has french doors that open to the lace-trimmed front balcony from where those park views come into their own. Imagine sitting here, with an evening wine in hand, soaking in the peace of parkland.

Downstairs, a study off the entry hall could serve as fourth bedroom – it neighbours a powder room. The carpeted open lounge room across the way complements the more casual family-meals space at the back. The tiled kitchen, following the classic black-and-white palette, has excellent storage – including a corner pantry – a breakfast bench, tiled splashbacks and stainless-steel appliances. The laundry is separate.

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FOOD REVIEW

CONSIDER THE SAUCE Kenny Weir gets his pub on at the Victoria Hotel Like several others in Melbourne’s inner west in recent years, the Victoria Hotel has undergone a rebirth. Often a lot of the interest and conjecture surrounding such enterprises is about whether the necessary makeover can be achieved while maintaining a down-to-earth pub feel. Our visit to the Victoria Hotel leaves us with a strong belief that those behind it have achieved just that – and with elan. There is much dark wood and a central, rectangular bar surrounded by high tables and stools, with regular tables at one end. The old dining room is still in play, and adjacent to that an outdoor area has been created by leaving much of the old look that was uncovered in the makeover just as is. The place still reeks of pubbiness. Likewise, the menu entices and excites us with what seems like a very savvy mix of pub tucker combined with deft tweaks. The price range is right in the pub zone, too. As you’d expect, the garlic bread ($8) here is not your usual sloppy, foil-wrapped loaf. Here, the good bread is sinfully dripping with butter, tarragon, parsley and chervil. Nat loves his black pudding and pork scotched egg with watercress and apple chutney ($14). I am afforded a sample taste, finding it to be tasty but preposterously rich. The spring vegetable and samphire fritters ($13) are a light delight, expertly fried and served with cucumber and mint yogurt. I have to look up samphire when I get home

VICTORIA HOTEL Address: 43 Victoria Street, Footscray Phone: 8320 0315 – according to Native Tastes of Australia, it’s a “native succulent also referred to as sea asparagus, swamp grass, salicorne, glasswort, pickleweed and sea beans”. Had we known our fritters would be so similar to the bhaji we regularly eat in Indian joints, we may not have ordered them. Still, very enjoyable. Bennie is very happy with his 250-gram $30 rump, cooked medium rare and served with fine salad, anchovy butter and triple-cooked fries. Nat and I both go for the pork schnitzel with kohlrabi remoulade, the same triple-cooked fries and grilled lemon ($25). It’s both surprising and beguiling to find our meals so determinedly monotone. A splash of colour would not go amiss! The key is in the eating, however – and in that regard, Nat and I enjoy our meals very much. The pork is quite thick – i.e. not hammered into wafer thinness – and juicy with wonderful flavour. The salad – effectively a slaw – adds just the right touches of contrasting textures and tastes. Kenny Weir is the founder of Consider the Sauce, the definitive guide to eating in Melbourne’s western suburbs – www.considerthesauce.net

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networkclassifieds.com.au 13 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ DECEMBER 19, 2017

SPORT O’Donnell welcomes summer selection Plenty Valley young gun Rhiann O’Donnell is looking to make the most of her opportunities this summer. O’Donnell, 19, didn’t have the season she was hoping for with the Bats last season and didn’t expect any higher honours would be on the horizon. The Victorian selectors had other ideas, picking her in the VicSpirit squad. “It has been great,” she said. “I’m coming into the system at the right time. “It was initially a bit of a surprise to be selected. The sport has become more professional. It’s so good to be in that environment and learning off players.” More surprises were to come, with O’Donnell also named in the Melbourne Renegades Women’s Big Bash League squad. She said that selection was the icing on the cake.

O’Donnell, who is yet to make her debut for either side, said she was looking to take in as much as possible. She said even watching the opening round of the WBBL she had noticed the level of cricket had gone up. “I think for me, it’s just about learning and trying to tick all the right boxes,” she said. “I want to develop my game as much as possible. There’s players such as Molly Strano, Meg Lanning and Kristen Beams. “And the WBBL, you’ve got the internationals. It’s such a good environment. “I’m being a sponge and soaking it all in and I want to lift my game to their level.” Playing cricket is something that O’Donnell has enjoyed since picking up the bat as a child living in Mildura. She was part of the pathways program and moved full-time to Melbourne 18 months ago

after spending several years travelling back and forth. Now one of the more experienced players of the Bats line-up, O’Donnell is trying to impart some of her new-found knowledge on her teammates. The Bats are sixth in the Victoria Premier Cricket one-day competition and fifth in the T20 competition . “Adam [Drinkwell, Bats coach] has been brilliant and just what we needed,” O’Donnell said. “We haven’t got off to the start we would have liked. We’ve ticked a lot of boxes in the 50 over games. Hopefully there’s a few more good results coming our way.” O’Donnell is one of two Bats players in the VicSpirit and Renegades squads – the injured Tayla Vlaeminck was also selected. Tara Murray

Demons keep the faith By Tara Murray Tullamarine can see the positives in what has been a tough Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division season so far. Looking to blood some younger players this season, the Demons went into the final round before Christmas on the bottom of the table without a win. While disappointed, Demons president Matthew Pixton said the short-term pain was all for long-term gain, with the club fielding its most ever senior sides. “We stuck to our guns with what our ambitions for this season were,” he said. “We haven’t got any wins in the senior side, but it’s pleasing from a president and committee perspective that the club is still buzzing. “We still have the positivity around the club and we’re setting a really good platform.” Pixton said the biggest issue for the top side had been a lack of consistency. He said while he had expected some inconsistency, the team had to ensure they were having less down moments. “We’ve been good for half hour or 45 minutes and then it drops off. We can’t afford to do that in the senior grade,” he said. “The senior guys are starting to hit form and we need them to perform and drag the younger guys along with them. “We knew blooding young kids, there would be some inconsistency.” Pixton said the approach of playing some of the younger players was starting to show results, with four players having an impact in the top side. He said they were juggling giving the players a go in the seniors, while making sure they were being given the opportunity when on the field. “Tim Matson is a 16-year-old all rounder,” he said. “He played the first game in the twos and has been in the ones since. He’s had some big performances with the bat and ball, despite the figures not always showing. “He doesn’t drop his head after a bad ball or being hit for a boundary. “Dylan Watts has had some good performances with the bat and looks promising, while Kobe Walters and Zack Zuehlke are sharing the last bowling spot. “We don’t want them sitting in the ones for several games bowling a few overs and batting at number nine, so we’re switching them through.” Import Mark Mbofana has played the past two matches and Pixton said they were expecting a big 2018 from him. The Demons are hoping more consistency and a win are just around the corner. “We gave ourselves a chance against Seddon and were disappointed with the result,” Pixton said. 14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ DECEMBER 19, 2017

Tim Matson is getting his opportunity in Tullamarine’s top side. (Damian Visentini)

“We think we have a good performance against a top side in us. Our senior guys are hitting form and that’s what we need. “Hopefully we can string a few good performances together.”

The Demons played Doutta Stars on Saturday in their final match before Christmas, afater Star Weekly went to press. For the result on that game and other VTCA matches, go to www. starweekly.com.au/sports.

Rhiann O’Donnell is looking to make the most of her opportunities. (Shawn Smits)

Brunswick fights back Brunswick extracted some revenge over Plenty Valley by knocking the Bats out of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association T20 twilight competition. Facing each other for the second time within a week, after the Bats won their two-day clash at the weekend, it was a reversal of results on Tuesday night. The Bats failed to fire with the bat and were bowled out for just 63 in the 18th over. Needing a miracle and a lot of early wickets, the Bats weren’t able to find either on the way to a solid loss. The Wicks had little trouble chasing down the runs, finishing 1-68 with 11 overs remaining. Scott Sanders was the star for the Wicks, taking 4-3 and then following it up with 50 not out. It’s the second straight year the Wicks have knocked the Bats out of the T20 competition, both times in the second round. The win moves the Wicks into the quarter finals. Joining them is Altona, which defeated Hoppers Crossing, Chasing Altona’s 6-118, Hoppers Crossing was bowled out for 87, despite Melbourne Renegades star Trent Lawford making 44 runs. Endeavour Hills fell short against Oakleigh which had the highest score of the round with 3-175. Yarraville was the second west side through to the quarter finals, beating St Bernards OC. The Eagles made 6-142, with St Bernards 9-101 in reply. Elsternwick made the runs needed against Moorabbin with an over in hand, while Caulfield easily got the job done against Kew, after the former made 8-90 batting first. In the remaining game, Croydon made 1-141 with 15 balls remaining, chasing Box Hill’s 5-138. The quarter finals are due to be played this week. Meanwhile, Plenty Valley was due to face Preston in a one-dayer on Saturday, after Star Weekly went to print. A win would cement the Bats spot in the top two. For the scores of that match, go to www.starweekly.com.au/sports Tara Murray

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SPORT

Wizards look to weave some magic A mixture of top and bottom-age players will hopefully hold the North West Wizards in good stead come January’s Cricket Victoria under-18 state championships. The Wizards, who had a strong championship campaign early this year, are hoping they will again have a successful tournament, with a number of talented players in their squad. Wizards coach Dervis Duradbegovic said there was a lot of talent in the north west metro area, not just at under-18 level. “There’s a lot of talented juniors in the area,” he said. “I’m a firm believer of succession plans and giving as many bottom-age players an opportunity as possible. “The talent pool is deep and so is the skill set. It’s looking positive from an individual and team basis. “We’ve got a really deep list and expecting a lot of things from the group.” He said the talent in the north west area had been highlighted with five players from this year’s under-16 squad named in the initial Vic

Metro under-17 squad and another five named in the initial Vic Metro under-19 squad. Essendon’s Patrick Willach is expected to be the key in the batting order for the Wizards. He scored two 100s and averaged 126 in this year’s state championships. Greenvale Kangaroos’ Jordan Buckingham will spearhead the bowling attack. Duradbegovic said Buckingham, who had made his premier cricket first XI debut, had made really big inroads in the past 12 months. “Last time he was bottom-age and it was his first year in the pathways,” he said. “He got into the initial under-19 Vic metro squad as a bottom-age player. He will head up the bowling.” Bottom-age players Stephen Mihelakos-James, who was player of the tournament in the under-16 championships earlier this year, and Kyle Novacek are expected to be among the other players to watch for the Wizards. Other players in the squad are Will Thompson, Fergus O’Neil, Ravi Fernando,

Corey Baker, Angus Price, William Blair, Charlie Winchester, James Deasy and Josh Docking. Duradbegovic, who is also involved at Greenvale Kangaroos, said all the players would benefit from the experience, on and off the field. Duradbegovic said while they would love to make finals, the main focus was getting the most out of the experience. Last time round, the Wizards’ championship run was ruined by rain. The Wizards made it through to the semi-finals undefeated, but missed out on playing in the grand final on percentage when the semis were washed out. Tara Murray

Jordan Buckingham is expected to be among the key players for the North West Wizards. (Damian Visentini)

Sports shorts EDFL

Roxburgh Park has appointed Jamie Lunt as its women’s coach for next year’s Essendon District Football League season. Lunt, who has previously coached junior sides, returns to the Magpies to take on the senior women’s coaching role. It will be the third season the Magpies will have a women’s side. The Magpies finished ninth this season in a combined EDFL and Western Region Football League competition with three wins. So far 14 clubs have expressed interest in playing in the stand-alone EDFL competition next season, and the league expects more teams to look at fielding a side in the new year. This year seven EDFL-aligned sides had women’s teams.

Football

Thomastown continues to build as it announces more signings for next year’s Northern Football League division 2 season. The Bears, who finished fifth this year, have announced a number of signings including Dylan Chapman, Jake Ingaliso, Salvatore Mamone, David Janevski, Ahmed Fahour and Matthew Ferraro. Most recently they have signed Anthony Capeci from South Morang and Tommy Bonson. The Bears start their season on April 14 against Lower Plenty. Nick Coffield is enjoying life as an AFL footballer. (St Kilda Football Club)

Embracing the AFL life By Tara Murray New St Kilda recruit Nick Coffield didn’t have to wait long to find out how tough an AFL career would be. Taken at pick eight by the Saints in the recent draft, this year’s Northern Knights skipper was pushed to his limits in his first training session. “I shot myself in the foot,” he admitted. “I didn’t eat or drink enough and mid-session I had a bit of a spew. Other than that, it’s been good. I’ve made sure that I’ve been preparing for sessions well now.” While it was a tough start for the 18-year-old, he’s quickly thrown himself into the AFL life and is thoroughly enjoying it. He said that while the workload was a little tougher than he had expected, it wasn’t anything he couldn’t handle. “I’ve absolutely loved it and all the boys have been so welcoming,” he said. “I’m making the transition from being an unemployed 18-year-old to a footballer.

“Growing up, what kid doesn’t want to play AFL?” Coffield is training four to five days a week and said he was slowly getting used to the long hours. Still living at home at Eltham adds a few more hours to the day. He’s getting up at 5am to make it to Seaford in time, meaning a lot of early nights. He said that once the club moved back to Moorabbin, he might look at moving out of home to cut the travel time. Coffield is training in the midfield group, despite spending the majority of the TAC Cup season playing for the Knights at half-back. He averaged 21 possessions for the Knights this year and averaged 22 possessions while playing for Vic Metro at the national championships. His maturity and leadership skills were something that also stood out in his last year of junior football. Long term, Coffield said he saw himself as a big-bodied midfielder.

As well as learning St Kilda’s game-plans, Coffield is quickly getting to know his new teammates. “I didn’t really know anyone before coming in,” he said. “I’d met Jade Gresham through the Knights, but that’s about it. “I’m trying to sponge off everyone … it’s about trying to get knowledge off them. “I didn’t know what to expect at training – I’m just giving it everything.” Coffield said his focus was on making sure he did everything he could to be the best footballer possible. While an AFL debut next year would be a dream, it’s not something he’s thinking of just yet. “I’ve living in the moment and trying to embrace it all,” he said. “We are in early December, and come March or April, if I’ve been stressing about when I will get a game, I would be insane. “I can’t wait to be in the midfield and get some games. It’s every kid’s dream.”

CrIcket

The annual Ruby Shield will be played on Wednesday night, December 20, at Willowbrook Reserve in Westmeadows. The T20 match will have Westmeadows Cricket Club take on the Westmeadows Football Club to raise money for The Smith Family’s Christmas Toy Drive. The match starts at 7pm.

FFV

Lalor United has signed Klim Dimitrieski for next year’s FFV state league 4 season. Dimitrieski joins United from state league one north-west premiers Altona Magic. United coach Tony Sterjovski said he was absolutely thrilled to add the experience and goal-scoring ability of Dimirieski. He joins Sash Grozdanoski as an off season signing. Skipper Igor Kolevski has also re-signed. FOR MORE SPORT, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklysport @star_weekly 15 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY \ DECEMBER 19, 2017

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