Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 27th January 2026

GP honoured

By Jack O’shea-Ayres

Bacchus Marsh GP Ravin Sadhai believes in connection, communication, and community wellbeing for all.

A Bacchus Marsh local since 1983, Dr Sadhai has been practising at Bacchus Marsh Medical Centre since 2005.

On Monday 26 January his service to medicine and the community of Bacchus Marsh was recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).

He said values were built around those of his late father, who died12 years ago, and inspired Dr Sadhai to follow in his footsteps.

After seeing some blokes you’d normally expect to be healthy and okay have sudden events like heart attacks, I decided we better do something about men’s health -

Ravin Sadhai

“MydadwasaGPintownformanyyears. He was heavily involved in the medical community,” Dr Sadhai said.

“We’re immigrants to Australia, My dad always wanted to be involved with things locally and I was sort of forged in that way. There was always a desire to be involved.”

It’s that very ethos which encouraged Dr Sadhai to start the Pub Clinic, a free pub-based men’s health clinic centred around fostering healthy relationships and getting the conversation going on health and wellbeing.

“Afterseeingsomeblokesyou’dnormally expect to be healthy and okay have sudden events like heart attacks, I decided we better do something about men’s health,” Dr Sadhai said.

“Having spent six years in Dublin, Ireland, completing my medical degree, I saw the pub as a central hub. So in 2008, the pub clinic was born.”

DrSadhaithenextendedtheconversation to involve even more of the Bacchus Marsh and surrounding communities.

Dr Sadhai then extended the conversation to involve even more of the community.

“Aboutthreeorfouryearsagowedecided after some discussion to come up with the Ladies’ Lounge, where we have women’s health presented in a similar forum.

“They’re all done in the Bacchus Marsh community at The Plough Hotel.”

The clinics feature guest speakers, information sessions from health professionals,andtheopportunitytofoster healthy connections and conversations with those from the community.

Fromhumblebeginningsinitsinception

in 2008, Dr Sadhai has watched it steadily grow over the years.

“We had about 20 people show up to the first clinic as a general men’s information night,” Dr Sadhai said.

“We generally get between 120-140 blokes coming along.

“A lot of people hear about it just through word of mouth.”

ButasDrSadhaiexplains,thePubClinic wouldn’t exist without the community involvement.

“It’s the support of the community that keeps it alive,” he said.

“People from the Lions club come along,

the CFA, the footy clubs. They’ve been big supporters of the initiatives.”

Despite his work, Dr Sadhai remains humble and wants nothing more than to give back to the community he loves so much.

“It’s a great honour,” Dr Sadhai said of the OAM. “It’s not just an honour for me, but for my family, including my late father and my wife. They tend to be by my side both spiritually and physically.

“It’s recognition not just for myself, but for the people around me as well.”

The Pub Clinic and Ladies’ lounge: https://www.thepubclinic.au.

Runners push for new loo

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

Next month, Bacchus Marsh’s community parkrun at Peppertree Park will celebrate its 250th event, but participants are still without access to a nearby toilet.

To highlight the issue, runners and community members will gather at 7.45am on Saturday 7 February, bringing rolls of toilet paper as part of a campaign calling for funding for a new toilet facility to be considered in Moorabool council’s 2026 budget.

Costings have been completed for a standard public toilet at the reserve, but

parkrun participant Sarah Guy thinks an all-accessible changing places facility is more appropriate.

“The closest toilet is an eight minute walk away at best, and it requires walking off the parkrun track,” she said.

“There’s already been costings completed for a toilet, but our campaign is about pushing council to add it to this year’s budget.

“If you’re going to chuck a toilet there, it’s gonna cost a bit of coin, so it should be accessible to all members of the community.”

Changing Places facilities are larger

than standard accessible toilets, with extra features and more space to meet the needs of people with a disability, as well as their carers.

“The parkrun is a five kilometre run, walk, or roll - anyone and everyone can take part” Mrs Guy explained.

“It’s growing in popularity, and the current toilet isn’t in a particularly handy location.”

Growing parkrun participation, general use of the walking track, and visitors passingthroughthetownonaregularbasis has opened up the conversation for a need for a new facility at the park.

Harry’s cut above for a worthy cause

MeltonbowlslegendHarry‘TheMudFlap’ Plias, known for his iconic money-raising mullet, will go under the razor to again raise money to support conversations, awareness and action around mental health in the community.

Harry is aiming to raise $500 through Bowl For Your Lives (BFYL), an initiative promotingpositiveconversationsaround mental health and the benefits of lawn bowls.

Donations can be made through a Gofundme page, set up by Harry’s club mate Lisa Trewarne who said the BFYL charity means a lot to her, Harry and the club.

“BFYL is a very important charity to both of us and the club and something we donate to every year,” Lisa said.

“This charity is one I hold close to my heart,” Harry explained.

“People always get a kick out of seeing me shave my head and I get to know that I can make a difference by doing something so simple.”

Lisa said the support so far had been nothing short of incredible.

“Everyone around the club has been amazing,” Lisa said.

“We have had the Gofundme up for

two weeks now and managed to raise $300 which is a great start,” added Harry.

“I shaved my head two years ago for the same cause and we raised $1700 which was amazing.

“Yes, I will miss it when it’s gone, but I am looking forward to growing it back to shave it again for this charity in the future.”

Above it all, Harry let one message ring clear.

“Melton Bowls club is always a home to anyone struggling.”

To donate: https://www.gofundme. com/f/shave-the-mudflap.

Dumping crackdown as rebate program opens for 2026

EffortstocurbillegaldumpinginMeltonare set to intensify, with new support available to help clean up parks, reserves and other public land impacted by dumped waste. Applications have opened for the illegal dumping clean-up rebate program, designed to assist councils and public land managers with the ongoing challenge of removing illegally dumped waste. Under the program, eligible public land managers, including councils and Crown land Committees of Management, can

receive support to clean up priority waste in cases where those responsible cannot be identified or where recovering costs is not feasible.

Surveillance and enforcement activity will also be ramped up in a bid to target known dumping hotspots, with the EPA leading efforts to identify offenders and hold them to account.

Melton MP Steve McGhie said the initiative would support efforts to keep Melton clean, healthy and safe.

“The park is getting used more and more often - for the parkrun and as a place thatpeoplestopinwhentravellingthrough town,” Mrs Guy said.

Regular park runner and Moorabool mayor Steve Venditti-Taylor is backing the calls for facilities at the park.

“I’ve done about 52 parkruns and I’m one hundred per cent behind it myself,” he said. “We’re not just looking at the toilet, we’ve got plans for upgrades to barbecues and other things, as well.

“We’ve got about 1000 people using it every week, so when it comes to a toilet, it’s a no-brainer.”

Police briefs

Teen charged

Police have charged a boy following an alleged series of obscene exposures and sexual assaults in Melton. Police executed a search warrant at a property in the Melton area, arresting a 13-year-old boy on 22 January, following an alleged series of incidents at Navan Park in Melton where a male was seen exposing himself while riding a bicycle on 11 and 14 January. It is further alleged sexual assaults at the same location occurred against one woman on 16 January and two separate women on 21 January. The 13-year-old was charged with three counts of sexual assault and four counts of sexual activity directed at another and was bailed to appear at a children’s court at a later date.

Five arrested

Five men from the western suburbs have been charged in relation to an alleged brawl at a Southbank licensed premises late last year. It’s alleged the brawl took place overnight on 15 November at the premises on Southbank Boulevard where four men from from New South Wales were assaulted in a bathroom by two males, before the altercation continued into another room. The alleged offenders fled the scene once police arrived, while the four victims later attended hospital with minor and non-life threatening injuries. On 21 January, police arrested the five men while executing search warrants at properties in Altona North, Altona Meadows, Point Cook, Hoppers Crossing and Laverton. A 29-year-old man from Altona Meadows, a 22-year-old man from Point Cook, an 18-year-old man from Hoppers Crossing and two 18-year-old men from Altona North were all later charged with violent disorder and affray.

Car fire arrests

EnvironmentMinisterSteveDimopoulos said the program would help public land managers deal with the costly impacts of illegal dumping and keep local areas clean.

“Too often councils and public land managersareleftwithacostlymesstoclean up from the actions of wrong- doers – this rebate scheme provides support to help cover these costs and keep our suburbs and towns clean,” he said.

Residentsareencouragedtoreportillegal dumping to the EPA on 1300 372 842

Police arrested two people after a car was allegedly set alight in Seddon. Emergency services responded to reports of a car ablaze on Walter Street about 5.30pm 19 January. No one was inside the car at the time of the fire. A 23-year-old Thomastown woman was arrested on Nicholson Street about 5.55pm and a 22-year-old man from Hoppers Crossing was arrested in Albert Street shortly after. Both were released pending further inquires.

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Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Cemetery is taking shape

Victoria’s largest cemetery to be developed in over a century is taking shape at Harkness Memorial Park.

The128-hectaresiteissettoopeninearly 2027.

The main works contract has been awarded to construction company Building Engineering, appointed to deliver the first stage of the memorial park after early works were completed in November 2025.

During the process, natural elements in trees and plants were introduced to the site, designed to regenerate the land and increasebiodiversityalongthetreecanopy.

The unique legacy project is being planned and designed to grow with the west’s diverse and changing community over the next 100 years.

Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust chief executive Andrew Eriksen said the appointment of the main works contractor is another significant step in bringing this critical project to fruition.

“So far, much of Harkness Memorial Park has been imagined, whether through conversations, consultations, renders, or plans,” Mr Eriksen says.

“Now the wait is over, and we can start seeing the park’s roads, buildings, and future memorial spaces taking their physical shape.”

Building Engineering will soon start preparing the grounds for site-wide earthworks, road and building construction, and the beginnings of future memorial spaces, which will be developed over the coming months.

Briefs

Possums galore

A record crowd turned out for an evening of wildlife watching when the Eynesbury Environment Group hosted a family-friendly possum walk near Hannah Watts Park beside Toolern Creek on Saturday 17 January. A record 22 people attended the guided walk, with children making up half the group. Despite early concerns the large number of participants might deter the local possums, patience paid off as around half a dozen of the furry fellas eventually emerged from their tree hollow at dusk. Two brush-tailed possums were first spotted cautiously surveying the crowd, before more appeared, climbing over the dead tree they call home. The sighting highlighted the surprising abundance of urban wildlife along Toolern Creek, where ancient red gums provide vital habitat.

Waste vouchers for renters

Renters of Melton are being encouraged to take advantage of their hard waste benefits. If your rental property receives a Melton council bin service, you can access two hard waste collections each financial year, two drop-offs at the Melton Recycling Facility, or a combination of one of each. Renters don’t need approval from their landlord to book the service and residents are encouraged to book online and spread the word so others don’t miss out.

FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Club signs Malta deal

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

It’s not every day you hear of a sporting club being backed by an entire country, but it’s the case for Caroline Springs George Cross Soccer Club.

The Fraser Rise-based National Premier League (NPL) club has just signed a fouryear deal with Visit Malta, which will promote Malta through Georgies across Victorian and national soccer platforms.

The club is already rich with history, formed in 1947 by Maltese immigrants it bears the George Cross medal on its jersey as part of the club’s official emblem honour-

ing Maltese culture.

Georgies’ president Mark Sultana said the partnership was about more than sponsorship, describing it as a unique opportunity to share Maltese culture with the wider community.

“This is about promoting not only Malta itself, but also reaching the broader community through Football Victoria, Football Australia and the wider Maltese community,” he said.

“Everyone is excited and can see the potential.”

George Cross has long embraced its heritage, proudly wearing the George Cross

medal on its jersey and embedding Maltese traditions throughout matchdays.

The club was based in Sunshine before moving to Fraser Rise.

“We’vebeenpushingourheritagestrongly across our football club,” Mr Sultana said.

“There’s a lot of opportunity and synergy for us to promote another country through our football club. Malta is a powerhouse in tourism, and it makes sense.

“But let’s not underestimate the multicultural side of the club, it’s not just for Maltese people. It seems to resonate with everyone.”

He said the four-year deal would help brand George Cross nationally while open-

Support local learning in Melton South

Melton South Community Centre is calling for community support as it prepares to roll out a new round of adult education and community programs for term one, while continuing to rely on vital funding and fundraising to keep its doors open.

Operating as a neighbourhood house and a learn local facility, the centre offers a wide range of programs, short courses, support groups and essential services aimed at welcoming and connecting the Melton and Melton South community.

Courses offer training and skills to the community in computer technology, introductions to industry and other job-re-

lated programs designed to improve employment prospects, support those starting their own businesses, encourage volunteering and provide pathways to further study.

Program coordinator Danielle Clarke said term one classes for 2026 would feature many familiar favourites, alongside some new picks.

“The most popular class is probably our floristry class and range of computer classes,” she said.

“We get a lot of people coming in as beginners.”

Beyond education, the community

centre plays a key role in supporting vulnerable residents, with a food pantry located in the waiting room and a weekly foodbank operating every Friday.

“We have a food pantry here in the waiting room where we take donations of tinned goods and non-perishable items,” Ms Clarke said.

To help fund its programs and services, the not-for-profit centre will be participating in Grill’d Melton Woodgrove’s Local Matters initiative throughout February.

“Fundraising is vital for us to continue our work,” Ms Clarke explained.

“People typically arrive shy and vulner-

Fraser Rise residents can have a say on permanent road closure

Fraser Rise residents are being called to have their say on proposed traffic changes linked to the construction of a new intersection at Saric Street on Taylors Road. Melton council has received a request from a developer to deliver the new intersection and is seeking community feedback on traffic management arrangements during the build.

To allow the works to proceed, Krateron Street will be closed at Taylors Road, starting Monday 23 February and remaining closed until October.

A temporary no right turn into or out of Chateau Promenade will also be in place during this period.

Once construction is complete, right turns into and out of Chateau Promenade will be reinstated, while Krateron Street will remain permanently closed to traffic on Taylors Road, with residents instead accessing Taylors Road via the new Saric Street intersection.

Council said Krateron Street was not designed with higher traffic volumes in mind, and the long-term plan has always

ing doors to new partnerships.

“It elevates the brand and ticks another box,” he said.

“It gives us the ability to share the power of this sponsorship with other sponsors, through Maltese news outlets and by reaching out to other Maltese businesses.”

The agreement comes as the Georgies continues its rapid rise, earning promotion back into to the NPL competition in 2026, the state’s top tier.

“There’s a lot of history to this club. It’s our job as custodians to make sure we promote that, and this partnership helps us do exactly that.”

Frustration as Western Freeway congestion worsens

Aintree residents are speaking out over worsening congestion and safety concerns on the Western Freeway, as daily commutes stretch longer and traffic volumes continue to rise.

Local Hira Gill said weekday trips on the freeway between Melton and Caroline Springs should take under 20 minutes, but regularly blow out to 40 or 45 minutes, particularly during peak hours.

“It’s crawling traffic most mornings, with dangerous merges and constant stop-starts,” Mr Gill said.

Mr Gill said hopes were raised during the 2025 federal election, when upgrades to the Western Freeway were promised.

Nearly a year on, he said residents are still waiting to see meaningful construction on the most congested section of the road.

“Traffic keeps worsening,” he said.

“We were told relief was coming, but nothing has changed on the ground.”

Safety concerns are also mounting around the Leakes Road interchange at Rockbank, which lacks traffic lights and has been the focus of ongoing community campaigning and protests.

“Exiting at Leakes and turning right toward Aintree is nightmare fuel,” Mr Gill added.

“Frustration leads to risky moves –cutting in, hard braking – and that’s when accidents happen.”

Transport Victoria data shows dozens of crashes in recent years across nearby interchanges, with residents warning that near-misses and minor incidents often go unreported.

“Reports cite 29 crashes between the interchange and Westcott Parade in recent years,” Mr Gill said.

“The true danger is far higher, which is why we can’t keep waiting.”

As development continues across Melbourne’s west, residents say road upgrades must keep pace with population growth to prevent congestion becoming entrenched.

Mr Gill said decision-makers must treat western suburbs infrastructure as a priority rather than a future promise.

“We contribute so much to Melbourne. We deserve better,” he said.

been for vehicles to use the wider Saric Street, which connects directly to Hume Drive.

During the works, detours will be in place via Saric Street, Hume Drive and City Vista Court. Alternative routes will also apply for right turns at Chateau Promenade using the Sinclairs Road roundabout.

Community members are invited to share their feedback on council’s website until Monday 2 February.

Details: https://tinyurl.com/CityofMelton.

Melton council has also been advocating for improvements on the Western Freeway previously saying the the road has rural- standard infrastructure and wants it upgraded all the way from Deer Park to Melton.

Traffic modelling commissioned by Council indicates that this will increase to over 110,000 vehicles per day by 2031. Hawke MP Sam Rae was contacted for comment.

Faces of the west

Each week Star Weekly photographers are out and about capturing events and people across the west.

Keeping cool on the savannah

As the Victorian summer continues, zookeepers and experts from Werribee Open Range Zoo explained to Jaidyn Kennedy how they help the animals keep cool when the mercury rises.

Slip, slop slap. Stay in the shade. Keep hydrated.

People who have spent a summer in the Great Southern Land would have these sun safety steps down pat.

Well, not just people.

The animals at Werribee Open Range Zoo (WORZ) have their own ways of keeping cool during heatwaves in Victoria –some of which aren’t too different from our own tried and true measures.

WORZ life sciences manager Dominic Moss said Victorian heatwaves can be more intense and sudden, with sharp temperature spikes compared to other parts of the globe.

“[When] animals aren’t naturally adapted… extra cooling strategies are so important,” he said.

“Different species cool themselves in different ways.

“Some examples are that Elephants flap their ears to release heat, rhinos wallow in mud to keep cool and protect their skin, as do elephants, big cats pant and rest in shade, while smaller carnivores seek cooler ground or dig to escape the heat.

“In general, animals use a combination of behavioural and physical strategies to stay cool in hot weather.”

Leading what is known as the cool-down crew is the zoo’s nine-strong elephant herd, who have been making waves in nearly two million litres of water across the Elephant Trail’s two mega pools.

The scenes Mr Moss describes don’t sound too different to what happens at Werribee Outdoor Pool just up the road.

“The elephants love dunking each other, blowing bubbles with their trunks and splashing water over their backs, and the calves often treat the pools like a giant playground, sliding, chasing and copying the adults,” Mr Moss said.

The herd’s “cool aunty” Kulab, typically leads the pool parties, and calves Kati, RoiYim and Aiyara love to join in.

The zoo’s five Southern White Rhinoceros also choose a soak as their preferred form of cooling down, taking advantage of muddy wallows – rolling, splashing and basking for hours.

Mud proves to be an all rounder in the cosmetics department, serving as natural sunscreen and insect repellent all in one.

Having thick skin is typically considered a strength, but if not handled with care, it can be an Achilles’ heel on the sweltering savannah.

“Animals with thick skin, darker colouring, large body size or limited ability to sweat, such as elephants, rhinos and big cats, can be more vulnerable in extreme heat, particularly if conditions are humid or prolonged heat events,” Mr Moss said.

The zoo’s lion pride embrace the heat with frozen meat blocks hung from trees, encouraging jumping, pawing and teamwork.

Two-year-old cubs Jango, Mwezi and Kianga love to claw and tug at the icy piñatas before dragging them down and settling in for a long, lazy lick in the shade.

Across the African River Trail, Serval sisters Nanki and Morili leap onto tree stumps to reach iron-rich icy poles.

“The icy poles are made using animal-specific ingredients like meat, blood, insects and vegetables, frozen in moulds,” Mr Moss said.

Curious meerkats make sure they get stuck into insect-filled ice slushies that are scattered across rocks and tunnels.

“Meerkat slushies often include mealworms, crickets and other insects blended with water,” Mr Moss said.

“They’re completely safe for animals, but definitely not designed for human taste buds.”

The humans still enjoy them, at least in a non-consumptive way.

“All enrichment is carefully planned and prepared before animals enter the space,” Mr Moss said.

“Keepers work behind the scenes using protected contact methods, timing, distance and barriers so animals are safely occupied elsewhere before enrichment is set up.”

There are important reasons why these treats aren’t spoon fed.

African River Trail life sciences coordinator Ben Gulli said ice-based enrichment helps animals stay cool while still engaging their natural instincts.

“Hiding food in ice encourages foraging, problem-solving and physical activity, es-

pecially during cooler parts of the day,” Mr Gulli said.

“It keeps animals mentally stimulated, thenallowsthemtorestoncetemperatures.”

While the animals are a smart bunch and good at managing their own affairs the zookeepers know what to do if there’s an emergency.

“Keepers closely monitor behaviour, appetite, movement and breathing, and watch for signs like lethargy, excessive panting or reduced activity, especially during extreme temperatures,” Mr Moss said.

He said teams will intervene if they suspect something is truly amiss.

“Animals are immediately moved, given access to cooler areas, given access to and the shade, water or mud, and monitored closely,” Mr Moss said.

“Veterinary teams are involved if needed, and cooling strategies are adjusted until the

animal is comfortable.

The team is pretty attentive to the details that help minimise the risk of those situations occurring.

The maintenance of the rhino’s mud wallow is a pretty good example.

“Keepers regularly top up water levels, monitor mud depth and texture, and ensure the wallows stay clean and safe,” Mr Moss said

“During hot weather, wallows and pools may be refreshed more often to keep them effective and inviting.”

And last but certainly not least of all, he gave a little pro tip about how the zookeepers themselves keep cool during scorchers. You could probably hazard a guess.

Plenty of water, wide-brim hats, sunscreen and occasionally an ice cream from the Ben and Jerry’s on site at Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Congestion fuels link calls

By Jack O’shea-Ayres

Moorabool council is calling on governments to move beyond studies and promises and deliver tangible upgrades to the west’s road network, as congestion in Bacchus Marsh emerges as a focal point in a broader infrastructure debate that spans local, state and federal governments.

In December councillors voted in favour of writing to the state and federal governments, as well as the opposition, seeking bipartisan commitment to an eastern link road aimed at easing chronic congestion through the town centre.

Bacchus Marsh sits at the centre of a growing regional traffic problem, with much of the town’s local traffic and heavy vehicles funnelled through a single central intersection. Council argues an eastern bypass linking Geelong Road and Gisborne Road, with a freeway interchange, would divert heavy vehicles and through-traffic away from residential streets.

According to a council report, the need for an eastern link was first identified in the late 1990s, when Bacchus Marsh had a population of about 11,700. Today, the town’s population has more than doubled to 26,763, representing a 128 per cent increase

and is forecast to exceed 55,000 by 2046.

Further pressure is expected from the planned Merrimu Precinct Structure Plan, which could add around 20,000 residents across 7000 new homes, according to council.

Councillor Rod Ward said decades of advocacy had yet to translate into construction, despite a $3 million planning study.

“Everyone has recognised the critical need for an eastern link solution for over two decades,” Cr Ward said.

“Can we just get on with it?”

A state government spokesperson said “We’re always looking at how we can up-

Nine hours, one King and zero ad breaks

Veteran broadcaster Duane Zigliotto has cemented his place in Australian radio history after achieving a national record for the longest uninterrupted marathon of Elvis Presley music.

What began as a one-off tribute to the King, gradually grew over the years, culminating in a nine-hour broadcast featuring nothing but Elvis Presley songs on Thursday 8 January on Melton Community Radio. The effort set a new Australian record and now sits second on the world stage,

just behind a famous 12-hour tribute by a personal friend of Elvis, Radio Luxembourg DJ Tony Prince, following Elvis’s death in 1977.

During the marathon, Mr Zigliotto played 226 Elvis tracks selected from an extensive personal repertoire of 760 songs.

“I’ve always been an Elvis fan, I was the first person to produce an Elvis tribute back in 1984. Each year on the 8 January I’ve done a tribute and each year has gotten longer and longer,” he said.

We might even do it longer next year.”

“I’m a promoter and manager of talent in the real world, and this was about celebrating music and legacy.”

Listeners can continue the Elvis celebration every Saturday night at 8pm, with an Elvis radio program presented by De Arne Marshall to take you on a tour through Graceland.

“The Elvis name will never die in music. The music might change but Elvis will always be there,” Mr Zigliotto said.

grade roads and reduce congestion in growing communities like Bacchus Marsh”.

“We’ve invested $3 million into a planning study for an eastern link road to improve traffic flow and safety.”

However, council noted that despite a preferred alignment being identified in early 2025, the Transport Victoria website currently states there are no plans to build the eastern link.

Councillors say without firm funding commitments, congestion will only worsen as the town continues to grow.

Star Weekly contacted the federal government for comment.

Moorabool’s local recreation reserves, community halls and CFA buildings are winners in successfully obtaining funding to improve their telecommunications.

Ten places in Moorabool are set to receive funding under the Skymuster Strengthening Telecommunications Against Natural Disasters (STAND) Program.

Ballan Recreation Reserve, Ballan Racecourse and Recreation Reserve, Lal Lal Community Hall, and Clarendon Recreation Reserve were just some among the many with successful outcomes from expression of interest submissions, with funding used to install WiFi internet via NBN to their premises.

Moorabool’s council was asked to also nominate additional sites used as emergency relief centres or where the community may shelter if isolated during emergency events.

Mayor Venditti-Taylor said it was wonderful to see so many additional locations receive the funding.

“With a quick turnaround required on the EOI process, council’s emergency management team and the Moorabool Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee nominated sites where emergency relief centres may be required during emergency events, so we’re delighted to see every one of them receive this vital telecommunications infrastructure that will be invaluable during emergencies, such as the upcoming bushfire season,” he said.

MY PLACE

Melton local Saran Konteh is a community-leader, mother, and strong advocate for better, safer, and more diverse communities for all. Founder of The Wellness Table, Saran turns dining into dialogue, breaking down the structural barriers facing young people from African-heritage, refugee-backgrounds and culturally diverse communities. She spoke with Jack O’Shea-Ayres.

What’s your connection to Melton? I’ve lived in Melton for over six years, and during that time it has become where I’ve built community, relationships, and a sense of grounding. Connection to a neighbourhoodoftencomesfromeveryday moments: recognising familiar faces, watching areas grow, supporting local businesses, raising children, and feeling invested in the wellbeing of the people aroundyou.Overtime,Meltonhasbecome part of my personal and professional journey, shaping how I show up in community spaces and how I advocate for belongingandequity.

What do you like about where you live? What I love most is the diversity: the richness of cultures, stories, and communities that coexist here. The food reflects that diversity, and it’s something I genuinely enjoy. I’ve also seen significant development over the past six years, from improved access to swimming pools and recreational facilities to markets and family-friendlyspaces.Thesechangeshave made everyday life more accessible and connected, particularly for families and youngpeople,andthere’sarealsensethat Meltoniscontinuingtogrowandinvestin itsfuture.

What, if anything, would you change about where you live?

If I ever reached a point where I felt consistently unsafe, radically marginalised, or stripped of a sense of belonging due to discrimination, that would raise difficult questions about staying. However, given my background in youth work, criminal justice, and community advocacy, my instinct is not to leave quietly but to challenge systems that exclude. I believe change comes through collective voice, accountability,

and community-led action. Rather than walkingaway,Iwouldfightforsafer,more inclusivespacesnotjustformyself,butfor otherswhomaynotyetfeelempoweredto doso.

Where is your favourite local place to spend time?

One of my favourite local spots is Culpa Espresso Café in Woodlea - it’s welcoming and familiar. I also enjoy walking around my neighbourhood and spending time near the lakes and ponds...which offer momentsofpeaceandreflection.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

30 years ago

24 January 1996

Melton Shire’s police numbers will receive a significant boost when 18 officers are assigned to the new CarolineSpringsstation,duetoopenin early-midApril.

20 years ago

24 January 2006

Hopes of a town square in Bacchus marsh have been dashed by the proposed sale of a prominent Main streetsite.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.

People are often surprised to learn that I’m quite introverted by nature. Despite working in community spaces and leadership roles, I value solitude, quiet walks, and reflective time - that’s where I rechargeanddomybestthinking.

How has The Wellness Table connected you with others living around Melton? TheWellnessTablehasbeenameaningful way for me to connect with people across the Melton community through shared

conversations around wellbeing, identity, and belonging. It creates intentional spaceswherepeoplefromdiversecultural backgrounds can come together, reflect, and build genuine connections grounded in care and mutual understanding. Alongside this work, I continue to bring my skills and commitment to supporting CALD students through a mental health program based in Melton. While these are separate initiatives, they are deeply connected in values, both driven by the belief that culturally safe spaces, representation,andearlysupportmatter.

15 years ago

25 January 2011

Moorabool farmers say above-average rainfallwillhelpthemgetbackontheir feetafteryearsofdrought.

10 years ago

26 January 2016

Almost 650 new classrooms will be neededoverthenextdecadetocaterto Melton’s rapidly growing population, newresearchhaswarned.

Discover the last frontier

By Lee McCarthy

DISCOVER the ‘White Continent’, fabulous Antarctica and sail with Viking’s Antarctic Explorervoyageforthirteenmagnificentdays.

Journey to the stunning Antarctic Peninsula, a landscape defined by blue-hued icebergs, immense glaciers and snow-covered shores.

Walk in the footsteps of great explorers and venture into the world’s last truly wild frontier and participate in meaningful science on board Viking’s state-of-the-art expedition vessel.

Each day can bring unexpected wonders as guests embrace the ever-changing Antarctic weather as the ship sails pristine waters in search of epic wildlife.

The embarkation city, Ushuaia is the southernmostcityintheworld.Itssplendid setting, tucked between the Beagle Channel and the southernmost slopes of the Andes, lends it an outpost atmosphere, as do the Antarctic explorers readying for the expeditions that depart from here.

Purpose-built for expeditions, Viking’s ships provide superior handling, comfort and stability even in the roughest seas.

Just some of the extra benefits guests receive on joining a Viking cruise include 24 hour room service, king size bed with luxury linens and pillow, floor to ceiling heated drying closets for expedition gear, heated bathroom floor with spacious glass enclosed shower, anti-fog mirrors, premium Freyja toiletries, free Wi-Fi connection, 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports, 24-hour specialty coffees, teas and bottled water, beer, wine and soft

drinks with onboard lunch and dinner, complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Centre, self-service launderettes.

All this and much more including a Viking Expedition Kit with a variety of equipment to explore at no extra charge, all Viking excursion gear needed for any relevant excursions and one complimentary landing or shore excursion in every port of call

A fleet of military pro zodiacs, Special Operations Boats, two-seater kayaks and two yellow submarines enhance traveller’s experience, and all the inclusions ensure guests make the most of their expedition without having to keep paying extra.

Antarctica has inspired explorers and adventurers for centuries. In this icy

wilderness, guests will marvel at icebergs glimmering in serene bays and mountains cloaked in white rising from the mainland basalt cliffs.

These stunning landscapes evoke both utter tranquillity as Weddell seals lounge on ice floes, and breathtaking drama as glaciers thunderously calve into the sea.

In these cold and nutrient-rich waters, humpback, fin and minke whales have been known to greet expedition ships that venture into their habitat.

As with all Viking ships, the expedition vessel doubles as a classroom in which travellers can learn more about the next destination by joining the Viking ‘Resident Scientist’ for lunch on board before

heading back out to explore.

Guests can choose to get explore with dedicated experts in their field or relax and enjoy from the comfort of the ship. Those whochoosetostayonboardcanrelaxamid the luxurious and beautiful appointed surroundings in comfort, with heated couches and lava rock ‘firepits,’ allowing guests to enjoy the outdoors no matter the temperature.

On offer right now and for those who book before 31 March is Vikings “Fly free, flight upgrade credit or save up to $2,500 per couple.” The cruise is priced from $19,795 per person in a Deluxe Nordic Balcony.

For further information please contact Viking on 138 747 or Viking.com.

Bergen

From

Stateroom From $32,295pp in Penthouse Veranda

ICONS OF THE VIKING AGE

Bergen to Copenhagen or vice versa

22 DAYS • 8 COUNTRIES • 17 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • MAY-AUG 2028

From $21,495pp in Veranda Stateroom From $26,295pp in Penthouse Veranda

BRITISH ISLES & IRELAND

Belfast to London or vice versa

15 DAYS • 4 COUNTRIES • 13 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL • APR-MAY, JUL-SEP 2027; APR-SEP 2028

From $13,295pp in Veranda Stateroom From $15,795pp in Penthouse Veranda

*Choose one offer per booking (all guests must select the same): Companion Fly Free (Economy) up to AU$2,500 per couple (code CFE25) OR Business Class Air Credit AU$2,500 per couple (CFB25) OR Cruise-Only Save AU$2,500 per couple (CRX25). Valid on selected 2026–2028 Viking Ocean voyages. New bookings only, prices in AUD per person (twin share), subject to availability, not combinable. Greenland, Iceland, Norway & Beyond based on 28 June 2028 departure. Icons of the Viking Age based on 11 May 2028 departure. British Isles & Ireland based on 17 April 2028 departure. Booking window: 02 Dec 2025 – 31 Mar 2026 (AEDT). Full T&Cs: viking.com.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication

Charity Golf Day

Rotary Caroline Springs will host its Inaugural Charity Golf Day on Friday 20 March, featuring a full day of golf and networking with breakfast and lunch provided. The event brings together golfers, sponsors and local businesses to build connections while supporting Rotary community projects. Sponsorship opportunities are available, with limited places allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. More information: rotarycarolinesprings.org.au/Stories/golfday-20-march-2026

 rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Melton South Community Centre

Term 1 Program of classes out now. A range of computer, craft, cooking, music, First Aid classes available as well as kids activities.

 meltonsouth.org.au for a full copy of the program or call 9747 8576 for more information.

Community band

The Greater Western Community Band meets Thursdays from 7.30-9.30pm. The rehearsal venue is the Bridge Road Community Centre, Strathtulloh (Melton South). The band is available for events. Brass, woodwind and percussion players are always welcome.

 Sally Hamond, 0401 474 582

Lights of Wisdom

The Bahá’ís of Moorabool warmly invite you to ’Lights of Wisdom’ – a monthly event providing an opportunity to relax in a tranquil environment and reflect on inspiring themes. The event is held on the first Friday of each month from 7.30–8.30pm at the Lerderderg Library in Bacchus Marsh. This is a free community event open to all.

God, movie and chat

A free community event is held every second Friday of each month with a film with spiritual themes screened followed by discussion. All thoughts are welcome. Bring your own sandwich. Tea, coffee, and popcorn are provided. The event is hosted at Holy Trinity Anglican Church Hall, 19a Gisborne Road, Bacchus March.

 bacchusmarshanglican.org.au

Probus Club of Melton Ladies

The Probus Club of Melton Ladies meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 10am at the Melton Country Club. It is a social club where all ladies are welcome.

 Glenda, 0418 504 616

Women Working Together

A program connecting women aged 50 above in need of assistance, with mentors and mentees. Open to women across the western suburbs, including Melton.

 9655 2131, or EmploymentSupport@ cotavic.org.au

Zonta club

Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. Meetings include guest speakers.

 Janet, 0421 080 923, or info@zontaclubofmelton.org.au

Melton Over 50s Social Group

Join a friendly group of people aged 50 and older who enjoy each other’s company while attending events such as dinners, shows, dancing, cinemas and more. If you live in the Melton area and would like to meet new friends, in a welcoming group environment, this is for you.

 Marlene, 0498 329 290

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Japan’s Momoko Ohtani in action at the Victorian Wheelchair Open. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 528131_32

Rose carers of Maddingley Park

The group meets every Wednesday from 10am-noon at the Commemorative Rose Garden, Maddingley Park on the corner of Taverner Street and Grant Streets, Bacchus Marsh. They maintain the two rose gardens at the park. Volunteers are welcome and no experience is necessary to join .

 Elaine, 0400 052 857 or Judy, 0428 463 538

Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club

Meets on the first Thursday of every month from 10am-noon at the Avenue Bowling Club on 254 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh

 Krystyna, bacchusmarshladiesprobus@ gmail.com

Melton Valley Ladies Probus

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets on the second Friday each month at 10am at Melton Country Club. New members welcome.

 Ann, 0425 705 150

Sewing in Melton

If you love sewing, head on down to the Melton South Community Centre. Bring along your machine and materials and make new friends as you swap tips and work on your own projects. 9.30am–3pm each Tuesday. Each session costs $5.  9747 8576

Melton South Community Singers

Singers of all levels are welcome at the Melton South Community Singers. This free and friendly group meets at the Melton South Community Centre and rehearses to perform at local venues and events. The group meets from 12.15-2pm on the first and third Tuesday of each month. No bookings are required.

 Sue, 0400 082 413

Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens

The Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens look forward to meeting up with new members at the Andy Arnold Centre, 10 Bennett Street, Bacchus Marsh.

 hopem@optusnet.com.au

Melton Concert Band

Rehearsals are on Thursdays from 7.30-9.30pm at the Bridge Road

Community Centre, Bridge Road, Melton South. Musicians of any age who are able to read music are welcome to come along with their instrument (oboe, bassoon, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, percussion). Please contact if you are intending to visit.

 0401 474 582

Cancer Support Group

MelMarsh Prostate Cancer Support Group is for prostate cancer patients and their carers and meets on the first Thursday of the month, from 12.30-2pm, at Melton South Community Centre. Attendees are encouraged as members share their journeys through what could be a very traumatic time of their lives. Explanations of medical terminology used in the treatment of this cancer are given in this group.

 Grenville, 0412 741 865

Chatty Cafe Melton

Are you feeling lonely, isolated or just wanting to make some new friends? If so, Chatty Cafe is for you. The group meets on Friday mornings at 10am for delicious free coffee from Latin foods and wines at 10 Wallace Square, Melton.

 https://www.facebook.com/ groups/352071857283331

Friendship Group

For all aged 60 and older – are you looking for some new friends? Then this group is for you. The Melton and Surrounding areas Friendship Group meets fortnightly for a coffee and chat night and organises affordable outings such as dinners, movie nights and many social events – plus occasional weekends away, and local or overseas holidays.

 Shirley, 0419 006 525 or Vera, 0406 493 734

Over 50s games and cards

Melton Club 50+ runs a games and cards afternoon every Sunday from 2-4pm at Kurunjang Community Hub, 33 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. Join this friendly group and make new friends over games and a cuppa.

 Denise, 0403 840 241 or Sharon, 0407 461 069

Women’s Support Group

Women’s Support Group Melton is for any women who feel they would like to attend a peer support group which is relaxed, friendly and non-judgemental. The group meets weekly at 1pm on Mondays (except for public holidays) at Djerriwarrh Neighbourhood House, 239 Station Road, Melton. The group can discuss most subjects that may be of help.

 https://ow.ly/QVwJ50Q5g42

Caroline Springs Rotary

The Rotary Club of Caroline Springs is inviting new guests to join its meetings in person or via Zoom. Meetings are held every Wednesday at the Western Emergency Relief Network in Ravenhall from 7pm.

 rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

Melton Men’s Group

Melton Men’s Group meets every Thursday from 5-8 pm at Arnolds Creek Children’s and Community Centre at 19 Claret Ash Boulevard, Harkness. Focusing on senior men’s mental and physical wellbeing. Join them for a cuppa and a chat, listen to guest speakers and participate in activities including, carpet bowls, pool, table tennis, cards and chess.

 Trevor 0404 494 649 or https://meltonmensgroup.home.blog/

Parkinson’s support group

The Melton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the second Thursday of the month, 10.30am-12.30pm, at Kurunjang Community Centre, 33-35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. New members and carers are welcome.

 Helen, 0409 186 576

Melton Bridge Club

The Melton Bridge Club has weekly social bridge sessions at the Melton Library on Fridays from 10am-noon. Come along to play an exciting, social card game and have loads of fun. Bridge offers the suspense of poker, the cerebral qualities of chess and the excitement of athletic sports, all in a relaxed and social setting. If you like playing cards this is for you.

 Rosemary, 0407 894 817

Two artists, one exhibition

Two local studio artists will exhibit their work in a shared exhibition in Brimbank.

Studio artists Ziggy Firth and Augustine Ang have created separate bodies of work, displayed in distinct sections of the Sunshine Art Spaces.

Firth, who goes by the artist name of ‘Ziggy Filth’, said working in the space has helped her to literally expand her practice.

“The paintings that I’m doing are largescale. They’re very vibrant,” Firth said.

“Because I’m using a studio in Sunshine Art Spaces, I can explore bigger sizes. I’m used to working small-scale so basically I’m translating a lot of sketch books to something for a wider audience. It’s been good for me.”

Firth said she draws from a range of different inspirations for her art, including classical Renaissance paintings, contemporary video games, and Hello Kitty.

“Cute things in general … bright youthful

things,” she said.

“There’s a lot of playful, colour, cartoon-y imagery.”

Ang works using paper collage and paper animation.

Hisworksexplorehowuniversalrhythms and inner cycles interconnect with living beings, culture and the natural world.

Ang’s thematic explorations culminate through various methods of interacting with paper, such as cutting, slicing, ripping,

Dynamic duo will make Werribee laugh

The Umbilical Brothers are back down under and they have locked in a laugh out loud show in Werribee.

On Sunday 8 February the globally successful comedy duo will perform Speedmouse– their new act– at the Wyndham Cultural Centre.

Winners of BAFTAs, an Emmy, and the Helpmann Award for Best Comedy Performers, The Umbilicals have wowed audiences in more than 40 countries.

Throughout their careers they have played packed stadiums and even supported comedy titans like Robin Williams. Expect live-action chaos, frame-byframe hilarity, and the kind of comedic

chemistry that’s made them legends of Australian comedy.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering them for the first time, Speedmouse is a laugh-out-loud celebration of imagination, timing, and mischief.

The duo’s trademark interplay to cleverly twist theatrical rules and everyday situations is the reason they amass more than 200,000 online video views a month.

The act will live, unfettered and unfiltered, so you won’t know what’s coming until it hits you.

A high-octane affair, this fast-paced gig is a blend of physical theatre, vocal wizardry and comedic genius.

Be seated for 5pm and start, sit back, relax and get ready for 75 minutes of uninterrupted, unhinged action.

Speedmouse contains adult themes and course language, so the show is recommended for those older than 15 and with parental guidance— or whichever word doesn’t sound lame.

They are currently performing six different theatre shows across the planet, so make sure to follow more of their work.

Tickets are $69 full price and $64 for concession holders.

Footscray to host misfit poetry party thanks to Slamtidote

Having made their first venture out west in November last year, Melbourne poetry collective Slamtidote is making a quick return with a show in Footscray on Thursday 29 January .

As with their first performance in the inner-west, Slamtidote’s appropriately titled All Poets Are Misfits event will be held at Misfits Bar on Chambers Street from 6pm until late.

The event is one of the collective’s bi-monthly poetry parties where live music performances, a spoken word open mic and a raffle fundraiser are held

alongside poets reciting verse. Slamtidote was established with the aim of showcasing the the talent of marginalisedcommunitiesthatmightfallunder ethnic, queer, and femme umbrellas, and it does this not only through regular poetry parties, but also by publishing zines, with four released last year alone.

The poetry parties also provide local creatives with opportunity to sell their own work as well as perform, while a percentage of the money generated from the fundraising raffles goes towards a different charity each month.

stretching, and scratching. Ang aims to evoke a wide range of emotions through his work, from the fun, weird, and absurd to the heavy, poignant, and deep.

The Sunshine Art Spaces Studio Works exhibition is open until Thursday 12 March at Sunshine Art Spaces Window Gallery, 2 City Place, Sunshine. Entry is free and no bookings are required.

Exhibition spells it out

From A to Z, Pamela Irving’s An Artful Alphabet invites audiences to rediscover the building blocks of language through a delightful, eccentric and imaginative lens.

Exhibiting at CS Gallery until 16 April, the exhibition by acclaimed Australian artist Pamela Irving transforms the 26 letters of the alphabet into a playful procession of wall-mounted sculptural figures.

Each letter is reimagined as a character, crafted from discarded and familiar objects.

Think Ken and Barbie dolls, plastic animals, wooden blocks, toys and trinkets that might have been familiar items you grew up with.

Carefully assembled and housed inside old cigar boxes and biscuit tins, the works are instantly recognisable and often quietly unsettling, pairing cheerful, sometimes maniacal expressions with deeper reflections on modern material culture.

While the exhibition is designed to delight both adults and children, there is more beneath the surface.

Irving uses the alphabet as a framework to explore contradictions around waste, overconsumption and nostalgia. Her sculptures question how quickly objects move from treasured trash, and what new meaning can be created when the mundane and discarded are given a second life.

Unapologetically facing our fastpaced, stuff-filled world, An Artful Alphabet balances absurdity with hope.

The mischievous figures acknowledge the realities of climate change and environmental decline, while still offering joy, humour and wonder, an invitation to rethink how we value the objects which surround us.

Slamtidote is hoping to soon register as a not-for-profit.

All Poets Are Misfits will be presided over by MC’s Britt, Tierney and Lian, feature live performances from Melbourne musicians Pia Nesvara and Shesoblu, and musical accompaniment by improvisational keyboard player Izzy.

Entry is free, though those interested in entering the fundraising raffle are required to RSVP beforehand.

Details: https://ra.co/events/2346430

Irving is an award-winning painter and sculptor whose career spans more than four decades.

Her vibrant works feature in major public and private collections including Museum Victoria, Artbank, Geelong Art Gallery, and MAR Ravenna in Italy.

With its colour, curiosity and clever commentary, An Artful Alphabet is an exhibition well worth spelling out on your summer calendar.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which men's T20 cricket team is the only Big Bash League team yet to win a title?

2. Scott Robertson was most recently head coach of which country’s men’s

3. In which city was Andy Murray born?

4. Northern Territoryborn former cricketer Damien Martyn played representative cricket for which Australian state?

Which horse won the 2026 Magic Millions 2YO

Which arena is the largest Australian Open venue?

The top-tier professional basketball league in Great Britain for men and women is known by what

Amateur tennis player Jordan Smith won the 1 Point Slam at the 2026 Australian Open, as champion of which state?

Which two NFL teams are set to play off in the 2026 AFC Championship game?

Which two NFL teams are played off in the 2026 NFC Championship game?

11. Following his most recent victory, how many times has snowboarder Scotty James now won the Laax Open?

12. Name tennis player Daria Kasatkina’s fiancé.

13. Which team recently won the Africa Cup of Nations?

14. Australia’s SailGP team is co-owned by Hugh Jackman and which other Hollywood star?

15. An image from which sport won the 2026 World Sports Photography Awards?

16. Who recently became the oldest singles player to play in the Australian Open?

17. What sport does the 1993 film Rudy feature?

18. What is the quadrennial football tournament contested by only South American teams known as?

19. Regarding BASE jumping, what does BASE stand for?

20. The Los Angeles Dodgers recently signed which former Houston Astros and Chicago Cubs outfielder?

21. To how many points is a badminton game played?

22. And how many games constitute a match?

23. The Houston Dynamo play in which league?

24. Alyssa Healy made her international cricket debut in which year?

25. Burley is a manufacturer of which ball?

26. The Brave and the Adrenaline are teams in which Australian league?

27. Drew McIntyre currently holds which WWE title?

28. In the AFL, who will captain the West Coast Eagles in 2026?

29. In which year did Roger Federer win his first Wimbledon title?

30. Who currently holds the record for the most goals for the Toronto Maple Leafs?

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

13 Loud and forceful (10)

15 Clergyman (9)

16 Clarified (9)

18 Orator (7)

19 Exaggeratedly enthusiastic (7)

20 Part of the limb remaining after amputation (5)

22 Brings up (5)

23 Yen (4)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The

1 What is the world’s largest inland body of water?

2 Jennifer Saunders (pictured) and Joanna Lumley co-stared in which 90s British sitcom?

3 Which Beatles member’s solo work includes the 1973 album LivingintheMaterialWorld?

4 Cardamon, cinnamon, ginger, star anise and clove are commonly used in which spice mix?

5 In the fairytale, what three things does the miller’s

7

8

9 Which politician is quoted to have said: ‘If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.’

10 In 1967, the first ever human heart transplant was performed in which country?

Sealion 6 is impressive

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

BYD’s Sealion 6 is one of the new breed of superhybrids.

So called because they are plug-in hybrids with larger batteries that deliver greaterelectriconlyrange.

These PHEVs are starting to gain traction in the market, with a 136 per cent increase insalesinrecentmonths.

Fully charged, with a range that exceeds 100km in some cases, they can be used in electric-only mode for the weekday commute.

Forlongertrips,theircombinedpetroland electric range exceeds 1000km, removing any lingering fear of being stranded with noaccesstoanelectriccharger.

Styling

Thefive-seatSealion6comesinfourgrades: Essential, Dynamic Extended Range, Premium,andPremiumExtendedRange.

Prices range from $42,990 for the Essential, $46,990 for Dynamic Extended, $52,990 for Premium or $52,990 for Premium Extended - all prices before on-roadcosts.

NotsurewhythePremiumandPremium Extended are priced the same, but they’re unlikely to sell many of the Premium variantsatthisrate.

The Essential and Dynamic Extended variants are front wheel drive; Premium modelsaddasecondelectricmotorandare all-wheel drive. Extended Range versions alsoacquirealargerbattery.

Our test vehicle was the entry Essential model. In fact, it presents so well that we needed to confirm it was actually the base model.

Standard kit includes synthetic leather trim and dual-zone climate air with rear outlets, keyless entry and start, six-way power adjustment for the driver seat and four-way for the front passenger, rear privacyglassandafull-lengthglassroof.

There are also adaptive cruise control, high beam assist, traffic sign recognition, auto lights and wipers, a manual-adjust rear vision mirror, plus LED lighting front andback.

All grades roll on the same 19-inch alloys fitted with the same GitiComfort tyres and thereisnothingtodistinguishthemapart.

Instrumentation is provided via a customisable 12.3-inch digital screen housedinaconventionalbinnacle.

Atyrerepairkitissuppliedintheeventof apuncture.

Sealion 6 is covered by a six-year/150,000km warranty plus eight years/160,000km coverage for the high-voltagebattery.

Servicing is due every 12 months/20,000km with maintenance costs forthefirstfiveyearsatotalof$1543.

Infotainment

Infotainment comes in the form of a 12.8-inch touchscreen that rotates, offering voice control, Bluetooth with audio streaming, FM and DAB+ digital radio, built-in satellite navigation, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (both wired or wireless) plus generic six-speaker sound.

No AM radio band means you won’t be able to hear emergency transmissions, for instance when there’s been an incident in oneofSydney’smanytunnels.

Dynamic and up get a premium 10-speakerInfinitysystem,alongwithtwin wirelessphonechargers.

Updates are over-the air and the BYD Store allows users to download a variety of applications,includingYouTubeandasuite

ofarcadegames(forthekids).

NFC connectivity means you can set up yourphonetolockandunlockthecar.

ThereareUSB-Aand-Cchargingportsin boththefrontandbackplusa12-voltsocket inthefront.

Safety

Five-starsafetyencompassessevenairbags, including a centre airbag to prevent front seat occupants knocking heads in a side impact.

There’s also a 360-degree reversing camera, rear parking sensors and autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car,VulnerableRoadUser,Junction &Crossing,andBackover).

Lane support includes lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), plus an advancedspeedassistancesystem(SAS).

There’s also blind spot, child detection andpayattentionwarnings.

Top-tether and ISOFix child-seat anchor pointsareprovidedfortherearseats.

Engines/transmissions

Essential’s hybrid powertrain produces a combined 160kW of power and 300Nm of torque, driving the front wheels through a reduction-style,single-speedtransmission.

Driving

The styling is round and feminine, taking itscuesfromcompetitorssuchasTesla.

The five-seat Sealion 6 is 4775mm long, 1890mm wide and stands 1670mm high, witha2765mmwheelbase.

Significantly, that is 175mm longer than the best-selling Toyota RAV4, as well as 35mmwiderand15mmlowerthantheRAV, with a 75mm longer wheelbase - adding up tomoreinteriorspace.

Parked alongside RAV, the Sealion is noticeably larger and having driven both vehicles back-to-back in recent weeks, it’s the Sealion that stands out - although we should mention there’s a new RAV on the way.

It’s an impressive feature but a bit gimmicky, because there does not appear tobeanypracticalapplication.

RATINGS

Looks: 7.5

Performance: 8

Safety: 7.5

Thirst: 8

Practicality: 8

Comfort: 7.5

Tech: 8

Value: 8

Overall: 7.8

Essential’s hybrid powertrain consists of a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, combined with a single electric motor and 18.3 kWh battery - that sendspowertothefrontwheels.

ExtendedRangevariantsacquirealarger 26.6kWhbattery.

Essential produces a combined 160kW of power and 300Nm of torque, driving through a reduction-style, single speed transmission.

Witha60-litrefueltank,ittakespremium 95 unleaded, with fuel consumption a claimed 1.1L/100km with anything more than25percentbatterycharge.

Electric only range is around 80km (WLTP).

It’s your choice whether you charge the Sealion or drive it as a standard self-charginghybrid.

Time and circumstances will probably providetheanswertothatquestion.

Petrol and electric fill points are located eithersideattherear.

Essential can be charged at a maximum rateof7kW(AC)or18kW(DC).

Itwilltakeuptoeighthoursusingapower point and the supplied granny charger, or upto10withthelargerbattery.

A wallbox reduces this time to two to three hours, while a fast DC charger takes from30to40minutes.

When driving you can easily toggle between EV and HEV powertrain options (electric or hybrid), with a toggle conveniently mounted on the centre console.

Therearethreedrivemodes:Eco,Normal and Sport, plus two settings for the level of steering effort required - Comfort (lighter) orSport(heavier).

The level of regenerative braking can also be altered, but only through the touchscreenmenus.

Thetouchscreenitselfrotatesatthetouch ofabuttononthesteeringwheel,returning to its default landscape position when the car is switched off (but resuming the desiredorientationuponrestart).

In portrait mode it can’t be seen if you wear polarised sunglasses, nor does Android Auto (and presumably CarPlay) workinthismode.

Our phones connected quickly and easily to the infotainment system which is smart enough to drop aircon fan speed during phone calls to reducebackgroundnoise.

The start-stop button for the powertrain is located close to hand at the bottom right-hand cornerofthecentreconsole.

The system is designed to operate primarily in electric mode, with support from the petrol engine for charging and additionalmumboifrequired.

In HEV mode the battery charge in our test vehicle hovered between 60 and 70 per cent.

You can take a deep dive into the system and adjust this figure, but it works well left toitsowndevices.

Sealion 6 is generally comfortable and easy to drive, with plenty of rear legroom andagood-sizedluggagearea.

Blackandbrownupholsterywithcontrast stitching lends an upmarket ambience, but may not be to everyone’s liking (my wife didn’tfancyit).

There’s plenty of cabin storage, with large door bins, two large cupholders in the centre console and a tray that offers side by sideslotsforphones.

But don’t expect it to charge your phone, notinthisgradeatleast.

There’s also another largish storage area belowthemainconsole.

Luggage capacity is a modest 425 litres, nodoubtattheexpenseofrearlegroom. There’s also some underfloor storage available. We found the charge cable for the car stashed in a bag to one side of the luggagearea.

While Sealion 6 is a smooth operator around town, it demanded more rigorous testingonpoorer,secondaryroads. We took it for a punt along some of our favourite loop through the backlots and while we can report that like most SUVs it’s a compromise - it’s not the worst thing we’vedriveneither.

Handling is safe and predictable and it didn’t start to get out of shape in corners unlesspressedrelativelyhard.

Throttle response in the low to mid range is excellent, but it seems to run out of puff afterthat.

Rather than punching the accelerator, we found moderate force seemed to elicit a moresatisfyingresponse.

Nowforthebestpart.Unlikethemajority of Chinese SUVs we’ve tested, the driver assist systems in this car are for the most partunintrusive.Yay!

In terms of fuel consumption, we were getting 4.1L/100km after some 350km of driving,withthepromiseof555kmtogo. Norangeanxietytoseehere.

Summing up

TheBYDSealion6isakeeper.

It joins a short list of Chinese vehicles that we at Cars4starters would consider buying.

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Lions tough weekend across the board

Meltonwasunabletocapitaliseonastrong start in the Cricket Victoria Women’s Community Cricket Competition Shield 1 competition.

The Lions were on the road on Sunday against Werribee and decided to bat after winning the toss.

The Lions put on 44 for the first wicket to give the side a strong start and a platform to build on.

They lost three wicket quicks to give Werribee some momentum.

While they were able to get a partnership in the middle order, they weren’t able to continue on and finished 9-134

Srishti Batra top scored with 42 at the top of the order with fellow opener Yashika Batra, who made 11, the only other player to score double figures.

Werribee set the run chase up early.

The Tigers put on 56 for the first wicket and at 1-98 were well and truly on top.

While they lost three quick wickets to give the Lions some hope, they got the job done with three overs remaining.

The Tigers finished 4-137.

Lexie Boon took 2-24 for the Lions.

After 14 rounds, the Lions sit in 13th spot with 27 points.

Melton faces the Greenvale Kangaroos Black side this Sunday. Meanwhile, Melton slipped to a second

straight loss in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west on Saturday. It was tough going with the bat for the Lions against Mt Waverley.

Mt Waverley won the toss and decided to field despite the warm weather.

Burras’ focused

By Tara Murray

Diggers Rest Bulla is hoping a return to form is on the way in the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield.

The Burras have dropped their first two games before Christmas, but are still in second spot after a strong first part of the season.

Diggers Rest Bulla captain-coach Evan Long said they hadn’t resumed the season in the way they would have liked but they’ve done the hard work to still be in a good spot.

“Two losses on the bounce is not ideal,” he said. “After Christmas we’ve been slow out of the blocks.

“I’m not sure how to put a finger on it.

“Hopefully from this week onwards we can improve on the last two weeks.”

The Burras are in the middle of their match against Eynesbury which is looking for its second win of the season.

The Eagles had a good day with the bat making 6-227.

Brandon Shearson top scored with 68 for

the Eagles.

Long said the Eagles batted well but they did let themselves down in the field at times.

“You bat your overs out and you can make a good score,” he said.

“Credit to them for making that score. It wasn’t through lack of effort on our side.”

With the hot conditions, the Burras used 10 bowlers.

Evan Long and Stephen Morris took two wickets each.

“I’ve played in hotter conditions than that,” Long said. “But bowling 23 overs was not in the plans.

“Charlie Hammond-Collins was back this week and got hit with a ball to the eye and had to go off after bowling just five overs.

“We were down a bowler for the rest of the day.

“I’ve always said that with our line up, we bat deep and bowl deep. We didn’t go in with those plans, but you want to give opportunities to blokes as well so come crunch time you can rely on them.”

Longsaidtheywouldhavetoensurethey

It proved to be the right decision with Melton bowled out for 133 in the 44th over.

Clarke Alaimo top scored with 32 not out MtWaverleylostacoupleofearlywickets but was able to steady and come away with a big win.

Mt Waverley finished 2-135.

Melton sits 10th on the ladder after 11 rounds. The Lions sit 15 points outside the top six.

It was a tough weekend for Melton’s J G Craig Shield as it was knocked out in the first round of finals.

Made up of the best under-15 players in the region, the Lions were looking to make it through to a second straight grand final. They finished second in the west pool behind Yarraville.

TheLionsbattedfirstonSaturdayagainst Coburg, making 9-122.

Samraat Sharma top scored with 29 at the top of the order.

Coburg made the runs with eight overs remaining, finishing 5-125.

Aariz Alam Khan took two wickets for the Lions.

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Ballarat CA

Bacchus Marsh has closed the gap on the top four in the Ballarat Cricket Association top four. Having made 226 on day one of their match with East Ballarat, the Bulls were able to bowl Mt Clear out for 118 on Saturday. The Bulls now sit seventh on the ladder, nine points outside the top four. Meanwhile, Darley lost to Mt Clear. Having made 176 on day one of the match, the Lions bowlers had to toil hard on Saturday. Mt Clear made the runs with ease, finishing 6-227. Ben Whitehouse took 3-52 for the Lions. The Lions sit in third.

Bowls

Bacchus Marsh and Melton both had to settle for sharing the points in their respective Bowls Victoria weekend pennant matches on Saturday. Bacchus Marsh’s division 1, section 1 match with Deer Park 2 was abandoned due to the heat rule, as was Melton’s match with Essendon in division 2, section 2. All teams in those matches got nine points each.

VTCA

face 80 overs on day two to ensure they get the job done.

Still sitting in the top two, Long said they wanted to ensure they stayed in a strong position ahead of finals.

With the other two sides in the top three, Eastern Hill and Kilmore playing each other, the result against the Eagles is vital.

Elsewhere In the Johnstone Shield, Lancefield is on top against Harkness.

The Tigers were bowled out for 183 in the 61st over with Harvey Lehner making 81.

Ricky Dhawan and Simarjeet Singh took three wickets each for Harkness.

Harkness had to face 10 overs at the end of the day.

Itwastoughgoingasitsfirstthreebatters all went out for ducks.

Harkness will resume at 3-6.

The Sunbury Kangaroos put on a solid total in the local derby against East Sunbury.

The Kangaroos made 193 before being bowled out in the 75th over.

Corey Woolley top scored with 54.

Nathan Dent took 3-51 for the Thunder.

A final round loss resulted in Burnside Springs United finishing second in its pool in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association T20 competition. Bellbridge was able to get the job done against Burnside on Tuesday night. Burnside made 7-100 from its 20 overs. Joel Croswell took 3-17 for the Bears. The Bears made hard work of the run chase, but did enough to finish 6-103. Three players took two wickets each for Burnside. Meanwhile, Sydenham-Hillside lost to Yarraville Club.

VSDCA

Melton got its first win of the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association T20 competition against Altona on Tuesday night but it wasn’t enough to make finals. Altona made 7-131 from its 20 overs with Max Birthisel top scoring with 51 not out. The Lions took the game deep and hit the runs with two balls remaining, finishing 7-132. William Collins made 63 at the top of the order.

Gerada takes the reins

By Tara Murray

Mick Gerada was looking forward to the challenge of being an assistant coach for Caroline Springs women’s side this season.

Having been part of the under-18 coaching set up the past couple of seasons, he was stepping up as the Lakers top side makes the move to the Essendon District Football League premier competition.

When coach Alex O’Shea decided to step down in December, she suggested that Gerada take on the role.

With the support of O’Shea and the committee, he jumped at the chance.

“It’s big shoes to fill,” he said. “I have a lot of respect for what Dean Ellis and Alex

O’Shea have done and I now take over.

“It’s really exciting and it’s a big opportunity and I’m grateful for the opportunity.

“I want to thank Alex for her support and it’s really important for me taking on the role to have that support and guidance.”

Having come off six straight grand finals and winning the Western Football League women’s premiership, Gerada is working within into a strong program.

It’s not just the women’s side that excited him, but also the next generation in the under-16s and now under-19 team.

“We have a strong senior program,” he said. “I’ve been involved with the under-16s and under-18s program the last few years and seen that growth.

“We’ve won the last two flags [in the under-18s].”

Having been part of the under-18 coaching panel, Gerada isn’t a complete stranger to the EDFL competition but it would still present a challenge.

He said the playing group was excited for the new challenge ahead of them.

“We’ve been a really strong club and we’re going into a new competition and see how we fair up,” he said.

“There’s some amazing sides in the league and there’s been some amazing clubs in the Western Football League.

“It will be a real challenge.”

Gerada said they were actively recruiting but their main focus would be to look from

Frigo makes the winter Olympic team

By Tara Murray

Sunbury-raised Airleigh Frigo has been named in the aerial skiing team as Australia announced its second-biggest winter Olympic team.

There will be 52 athletes representing Australia, with 27, including Frigo, making their Olympics debut.

Born in 1999 and raised in Sunbury, Frigo came to aerial skiing through a childhood in gymnastics and other sports, a pathway shared by many in Australia’s freestyle ranks.

“I loved the competitive nature of sport and feeling like I could do things that others couldn’t do” Frigo said on the Olympics website.

“I started aerials when I was 18 years old and knew I wanted to represent Australia at the Olympics Games.”

Frigo, who now lives in Melton, joined the Victorian Institute of Sport and the

national aerial skiing setup, progressing through domestic and international development pathways before earning an Olympic Winter Institute of Australia athlete performance contract in 2023.

That came after she made her international debut in early 2019 and has made massive inroads in her career since.

Her international breakthrough arrived in January 2025 at Lac-Beauport, Canada, where she earned her maiden World Cup medal, finishing third behind teammate Laura Peel and the USA’s Karenna Elliott. It was a composed, career-first podium that confirmed her step up to consistent finals contention at the top level.

Two weeks later she helped create Australian history at Deer Valley, Utah.

On an evening of heavy snow and truncated training, Australians swept the podium for the first time in any FIS Freestyle World Cup event, with Peel first, Danielle

within the club.

He said they already had a strong squad and there would be opportunity for others to step up into the senior program.

“There’s some girls who are coming up that are really strong,” he said.

“With it now going to an under-19 competition it means some of the girls have another year in under-19s which is exciting for them.

“There’s a number of girls at the Western Jets and in the futures program. It’s very exciting for the club.”

“We will play some of them throughout the year.”

The Lakers will start their season on 11 April against Greenvale.

Burras make a coaching change

Diggers Rest has had a late coaching change ahead of the Riddell District Netball League season.

The Burras announced last year that Deepak Patu would coach the side in 2026, returning to the league where he previously coached the Western Rams.

Patu is a four-time Australian National Championships representative and has an extensive playing and coaching background.

The club announced last week in a statement that he was no longer able to continue with the role in the club.

The Burras held trials in October for their teams for this season but are yet to announce any signings.

Scott second and Abbey Willcox third, while Frigo finished fourth to complete an unprecedented Australian 1-2-3-4.

From the six World Cups leading into the Games she achieved four top-10 performances.

She jumped to bronze and fourth in World Cups in early 2025 and followed that a few weeks later with eighth at the World Championships.

The Olympics website said with a first World Cup podium, a World Championships top-eight and multiple finals across 2025 and 2026, Frigo has established herself within Australia’s aerials team.

The Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games run from 6-22 February.

“Whether you’re talking about aerials, moguls, halfpipe, snowboard cross or bobsleigh, we now have many regular World Cup podium performers,” Australian Winter Olympic Team Chef de Mission Alisa Camplin said.

“While we are naturally disappointed, we completely understand Deepak’s decision and wish him and his family all the very best moving forward,” president Shane Bishop said in the statement.

“The club would like to sincerely thank Deepak for the energy, enthusiasm and hard work he brought during his short tenure with us. We acknowledge his efforts in helping establish a strong foundation for what we believe will be an exciting new chapter for our netball program. Firmly believing that when one door closes, another opportunity presents itself, the club has been actively seeking a new coach and is currently progressing some exciting prospects.”

The Burras’ A-grade side struggled in 2025 and finished in 10th spot with one win and two draws for the year.