Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 17th February 2026

Recycling for rescues

A Bacchus Marsh woman is turning her recycling into rescue relief.

Local animal lover Rachel Gormley is collecting bottles and cans and donating every cent raised to struggling animal rescue groups, proving small change can make a big difference.

Mrs Gormley said her drive to help animals has only grown stronger, crediting her husband, clients and the Bacchus Marsh community for their unwavering support.

Now, she’s urging locals to dig into their recycling bins to lend a helping hand to local rescues.

 Read the full story on page nine.

A slippery problem

By Jack O’shea-Ayres

Multiple snake sightings have been made at Burnside Heights Recreation Reserve, prompting safety concerns from Burnside Springs United Cricket Club and renewed callsforassistancefromauthorities.

AsnakewassightedonFriday6February emerging from the curator’s shed at the club’sgrounds.

According to the club, the reptile exited through the door seal without the shed being opened and moved directly towards theclub’scuratorashecrouchedtounlock apadlock.

It then reportedly travelled along the top oval while an under-10s match was underway, before leaving the playing surface and heading toward a drainage area between the shed and a shipping container.

Club committee member Tony Planinic said the incident had caused genuine concernamongfamilies.

“The area where the snake was first observed –near the curator’s shed and the adjoining grassed space – is a popular spot where younger children often wait while theirsiblingsorparentsareonthefield,“he said. “It’s understandable that the sighting

hascausedanxiety.”

Mr Planinic said after initial contact with Melton council snake-removal line on Friday, the club was notified a snake-catcherwouldnotattend.

“They acknowledged our concerns but advised that, because the snake had already vacated the shed, they were not requiredtoattend,”MrPlaninicsaid.

“This was despite the snake entering the playing surface for a short time and later into a drainage area. It was considered to bewithinitsnaturalenvironment.”

Another snake sighting occurred on Saturday 7 February, this time on the top

ovalbeforemovingontothedrainagearea.

The club said authorities were contacted asecondtime.

“Once again, they understood the concerns raised, but because the snake was technically located within a reserve, there were legal limitations on whether they could intervene or relocate it,” Mr Planinicsaid.

He said the close encounter had left the club’s curator shaken, with the snake emerging about 15 centimetres from his hand.

 Continued: Page 4.

Police station concerns

By Jack O’shea-Ayres

The opening hours of Caroline Springs Police Station have been cut despite community calls for the station’s front desk tobeopenaroundtheclock.

Victoria Police announced temporarily reduced hours for the station on 30 January via a post on the Eyewatch - Melton Police ServiceAreaFacebookpage.

Accordingtothepost,thestation’scounter hours will be Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 10am and 6pm, reduced from9am-5pmdaily.

A Victoria Parliament petition urging a review of the station’s counter hours and policeresourcingintheregionreceived457

signatureslastyear.

It called on the state government to urgently review policing needs across the CityofMeltonandmakeCarolineSpringsa 24-hourpolicestation.

Local resident Sean Monalto said the outcomeofthepetitionwasdisappointing.

“We didn’t get the numbers we were hopingfor.I’mabsolutelydisappointedwith theoutcome,”MrMonaltosaid.

“The current government hasn’t shown any indication that the safety of Victorians isapriority.

“Victoria’s safety has gone down the toilet.”

Police minister Anthony Carbines was contacted for comment. A Victorian

government spokesperson responded, telling Star Weekly police officers were not needed“sittingbehindadesk“.

“The best place for highly-skilled police officers is out in the community preventing crime and keeping people safe, not sitting behindadesk,”thespokespersonsaid.

“Keeping Victorians safe in 2026 means prioritisingfrontlinepolicepatrols.”

Despite the changes in desk hours, the spokesperson ensured police presence in thecommunitywouldnotbeaffected.

“Therehavebeennochangestothepolice deployedtoyourcommunity.AllVictorians continue to receive a 24-hour, seven-day policeresponse,”thespokespersonsaid.

“Changes to counter services will

One-way screws stop two-bit thieves

In the fight against number plate thefts, police in Melton are hosting a ‘Safe Pl8’ event where locals can learn how to secure anti-theft screws to their vehicle’s number plates.

On Saturday 28 February, police will be fittingfreeanti-theftscrews,alsoknownas one-way screws, in a bid to tackle vehicle theft.

Offenders often use stolen plates to avoid identification when committing serious offenses such as petrol theft, drug trafficking and burglary, according to police.

The session will take place at Bunnings

Melton, at 56 High Street and kicks off at 11am.

Melton SES volunteers will be out and about helping to fit the anti-theft screws until3pm.

“Melton’s SES are a real key local community group who do phenomenal work,” Acting Sergeant Joanne Mutsaerts said.

“These offences are often the centre of more serious offending. They’re often used byoffenderstohidetheidentityofavehicle whencommittingothercrimes.”

The anti-theft screws are more difficult to remove as they can only be turned in a

singular,clockwisedirection.

“We encourage everyone in the community to attend one of the safe plate days so they can receive a free anti-theft screw fitted to their vehicle,” Acting SergeantMutsaertssaid.

CrimeStoppers Victoria will also be on site to provide information on crime prevention, and home, vehicle and personalsafety.

Incaseyoumissoutontheday,anti-theft screws can also be found at hardware stores, automotive parts stores, and petrol stations.

Details:police.vic.gov.au/safepl8.

A slippery problem at Burnside Heights reserve

“That close encounter has left him with genuine fears for his safety … This has placedadditionalstrainonouroperations,” hesaid.

The club advised members via a Facebook post on Monday 9 February to avoid the walkway between the concourse andcurator’sshed,keepchildrencloseand notapproachthesnake.

Mr Planinic said the club’s priority was to have the snake “safely removed and relocated” to a nearby creek area, but

procedural constraints had complicated thatprocess.

“Our intention has always been straightforward: to have the snake safely relocated to a more suitable habitat for the wellbeingofboththeanimalandthesafety of our members, players, and the residents of Burnside Heights who use the facility,” hesaid.

“Whilst the club has an excellent working relationship with Melton council, thissituationhashighlightedhowredtape and bureaucracy can sometimes get in the wayofcommon-senseapproaches.”

ensure police are conducting patrols and responding to calls for assistanceproviding a more visible presence to keep ourcommunitysafe.”

Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch said she supportsthedecisionbythecommissioner.

“Victorians receive a 24/7 emergency response from Victoria Police no matter wheretheylive,“shesaid.

“We back the Chief Commissioner’s plan to deliver a safer Victoria and a new-look Victoria Police - retaining more members and getting more of them on the on the streetsdeterringcrime.”

Inanemergency,thecommunitycancall triple-0 or for non-urgent reports, call the PoliceAssistanceLineon131444.

Police briefs

Sunshine man charged

A 25-year old Sunshine man was arrested following an incident in St Albans on 11 February. Police were called to a business on Furlong Road about 12.15am after reports a man had broken into the property. Staff, who were still on site, secured themselves in a storeroom and contacted police. Police were quickly on scene and arrested the Sunshine man. He was taken to hospital for treatment to existing injuries. The man has since been charged with criminal damage and trespass and was bailed to appear at Sunshine Magistrates’ Court on 25 February.

Deanside rollover

Police are appealing for public assistance as they investigate the circumstances surrounding a collision in Deanside on 10 February. Emergency services were called to the Western Freeway, inbound near Hopkins Road, following reports a truck and ute had collided about 4.15am. The truck rolled as a result of the collision, with a section of the freeway closed throughout the day. The driver of the truck, a 63-year-old Beaufort man, was taken to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the ute, a 29-year-old Truganina man, was taken to hospital with minor injuries. Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or www. crimestoppersvic.com.au

Chainsaw attack

A Melton council spokesperson told Star Weekly the removal of the snake was deemed“illegal”.

“As the snake had also moved into an area that is considered its natural habitat, it would have been illegal for our snake catcher to try to remove or relocate it,” the spokespersonsaid.

“Our snake catcher is meeting with the cricket club to conduct some education in relation to snake behaviour and safety and provide further advice in terms of snake proofing the equipment sheds.”

Police have charged a man following an alleged criminal damage incident in Point Cook on 12 February. Officers responded to reports of a 43-year-old man allegedly damaging the front door of a property on Hyde Park Terrace about 1.15pm. Footage posted to social media shows a man striking the security door with an axe, a machete and then cutting through it with a chainsaw. A resident of the property, a 35-year-old man, was inside the house but was not injured. Police will allege the 43-year-old then left the scene and damaged a number of vehicles parked nearby on Friar Park Place. The man from Point Cook has since been charged with two counts of causing criminal damage, two counts of assault with weapon and two counts of unlawful assault. He was bailed to appear at Wyndham Magistrates’ Court on 30 April.

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Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

School campaign ramps up

By Jack O’Shea-Ayres

Families, educators and disability advocates across Melbourne’s west are calling on the state government to commit to building a new special development school (SDS), warning the region is facing a critical shortage of specialist school places.

Communityleaderssayexistingschools are operating at or beyond their capacity, leaving many students with disabilities without access to appropriate, local and inclusive education.

Advocacy group Equality for Autism is currently calling for 10,000 signatures to secure a new special developmental school for Melbourne’s west.

“Every child deserves access to a safe, supportive, and well-resourced learning environment,” Equality for Autism chairperson and co-founder Jeff O’Donnell said.

“Rightnow,familiesinMelbourne’swest are being left behind. The lack of specialist school infrastructure is forcing students to travel long distances or miss out on the tailored support they need to thrive.”

According to advocates, Sunshine’s Special Development School has a capacity of 200, while Yarraville’s SDS has a capacity of 85 students

A new specialist school in Aintree was also opened by the state government in 2024.

Melton MP Steve McGhie said he supported the calls for new specialist schools.

“I am a strong advocate for a special development school in the west,” Mr McGhie said.

“I have advocated for one in Melton and I am sure it is being considered by government.”

Community representatives said the limited capacity is particularly concerning given rising diagnoses of severe to profound disabilities among children in the region.

Special development schools provide tailored programs for students with intellectual disabilities, physical disabilities and complex needs. They offer specialised teaching, allied health support and purpose-built facilities designed to help students reach their full potential.

To all those Unsinkable Guys out there –

The campaign is calling on the state government to commit funding for a new SDS in Melbourne’s west, while also engaging with families and educators during the planning process in a bid to ensure the school is appropriately resourced to meet current and future demand.

Mr O’Donnell said the push was not politically motivated.

“We are not attacking the Victorian state government as this issue should be a bipartisan issue with everyone supporting this goal,” he said.

You might think it’s safe to have a few drinks around water, skip the life jacket when you’re out on the boat or go for a swim without checking the conditions.

But statistics prove that 4 out of 5 drownings are men.

Just remember that no one’s unsinkable.

“Building a new special development school is not just an investment in infrastructure. It’s an investment in inclusion, equity, and the future of our community.” A state government spokesperson said specialist schools across the west are benefiting from upgrades.

Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch said she supports the Equality for Autism group.

Petition: https://www.parliament.vic. gov.au/get-involved/petitions/new-special-developmental-school-for-melbournes-west

Sod turns on new centre

Construction has officially commenced on the first major shopping centre to deliver convenience to the growing Deanside community.

DeliveredbyNationalintegratedproperty, constructionandinvestmentgroupOreana, Deanside Central will offer 8200 square metres of Net Lettable Area (NLA) across a 21,000 square metre site on the corner of Hopkins Road and Conservatory Drive whencompletedinearly2027.

The site will be anchored by a Coles supermarket and feature up to 30 retail outlets, set with Liquorland, Yes Yes Indian Supermarket, Anytime Fitness, Direct Chemist Outlet and a number of other retailers who have also already committed, alongsidebeautyandanumberoffoodand beverageoperators.

“The commencement of construction at DeansideCentralmarksanothersignificant milestone in Oreana’s commitment to supporting Melbourne’s expanding outer

suburbs with vital retail infrastructure,” he said.

“These neighbourhood centres are fundamental to establishing well-connected, liveable communities in emergingresidentialareas.”

Deanside Central will serve as the first major retail hub for the fast-growing community,whichexpandedbymorethan 13,000 residents between 2023 and 2024 alone, with more than 4000 new homes being expected to be added each year until 2046.

“Deanside Central will bring essential retail and everyday services directly to the local community, enhancing everyday life forresidents,”MrSasssaid.

“We’re focused on delivering convenient, welcoming centres that become genuine gathering places and make daily life easier forlocalfamilies.”

Briefs

Pedestrian crossing works

Construction of four raised pedestrian crossings began on Main Street, Bacchus Marsh on Sunday 15 February. Three existing zebra crossings were upgraded to asphalt raised crossings, with a new raised crossing installed west of the Main and Young streets intersection. Construction takes place Sunday to Thursday, 9pm–7am, with traffic management in place.

Road resurfacing

Moorabool’s motorists are being advised to plan ahead, with the Gordon Freeway overpass set to close for two days as part of essential asphalt renewal works by the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP). The full closure will occur on dates scheduled between Monday 16 February and Monday 30 March, with exact dates yet to be confirmed. DTP says the community will be notified at least one week in advance via electronic variable message signs. During the closure, traffic will be detoured onto surrounding council-managed roads, with drivers urged to follow all traffic control signage and allow extra travel time. There will also be rehabilitation works on the Western Highway near Old Melbourne Road at Ballan, while resurfacing is planned for sections of the Geelong-Ballan Road.

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Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Wake up to leafy walking trails, friendly neighbours and resortstyle amenities just a short stroll from your front door. From the pool, gym, bowling green and more, everything is designed for easy living in a secure and connected community.

Discover beautifully designed, low-maintenance homes at Lifestyle Communities® Brookfield from just $349,000*.

Mayor’s message

Cr Lara Carli

Over the past two weeks, I have been busy meeting with key government stakeholders to continue to raise awareness about Council’s Advocacy Priorities and the needs of our growing community.

Last week, I met with Federal Ministers and senior advisors in Canberra to discuss our core priority areas, including job creation, commercial investment, improved transport options, education and skills, and strengthening community wellbeing and liveability.

These meetings allowed us to ensure that the needs of our rapidly growing community are clearly understood by key decision-makers at all levels of government. Alongside my fellow Councillors, I remain committed to ensuring our City’s needs are clearly communicated and that Council continues to play an active role in shaping positive outcomes.

Council has also launched its ‘Greening the City of Melton’ campaign, a commitment to creating a more sustainable, comfortable and liveable City. This includes major upgrades to our parks and reserves, expanding our urban tree canopy through our extensive tree-planting program, and working closely with developers to ensure greener neighbourhoods. This initiative focusses on making sure our open spaces are green and welcoming to ensure a healthy, connected and more resilient City as we continue to grow.

Finally, I’m looking forward to celebrating International Women’s Day on 8 March. It’s an important reminder to recognise the contributions of women and girls in our community, and to reflect on the role we each play in helping them thrive.

Feel free to contact me about Sugar Gum Ward or our City more generally on 0409 951 020 or email at: Lara.Carli@melton.vic.gov.au

Fun for kids at the library!

Melton City Libraries has a range of fun, free activities throughout the year for children of all ages. From reading and songs, to writing and crafts, there is sure to be something for everyone to enjoy while learning new skills.

• Baby Bounce (0-12 months)

• Toddler Time (1-3 years)

• Preschool Storytime (3-5 years)

• Family Tales (0-8 years)

• After Schooligans (5-12 years)

• Little Writers (7-12 years)

• Teen Crafternoons (12-18 years)

There are also STEM Clubs, chess workshops and much more! For information and to view session days and times, visit melton.vic.gov.au/ library-programs

LAKESIDE ALIVE 2026

Saturday 21 March 2026, 12pm – 8pm

Lake Caroline, Caroline Springs

Join us for a day by the lake full of live music, delicious food, market stalls,

roving performers, twilight fireworks and free family entertainment.

Make sure you pop this one in your calendar! For information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/LakesideAlive

Lake Caroline Ward with Cr Kathy Majdlik

We are proud to celebrate the people who make our community welcoming and such an amazing place to live, and each year, we do this through our Community Volunteer Achievement Awards.

Nominations for this year’s awards are now open, recognising locals who go above and beyond to support others and strengthen community spirit.

Residents can be nominated across five categories, including Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, and awards recognising leadership in disability access and inclusion, equity, and intercultural engagement.

Nominations close on Saturday 28 February, with winners announced in May, during National Volunteer

Week. If you know someone making a positive difference, we encourage you to nominate them at melton.vic.gov. au/volunteer-awards

We also continue to support residents and organisations through our Community Grants and Funding Programs, which are available all year round. Not-for-profit organisations can apply for grants of up to $5,000 to deliver projects that support community connection, creativity, health, and wellbeing.

In addition, funding opportunities are available to support emerging groups, individual achievements, and young people experiencing disadvantage through the New Groups Fund, Resident Achievement Fund, and FairGo4Youth Fund respectively.

Support for older residents

Council currently has places available through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) for personal care and flexible respite to help older residents stay safe, comfortable and independent at home and in the community.

To be eligible, you must be aged 65 years or over (or 50 years or over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) and complete an assessment to determine suitability for services.

For information, call 9747 7373 or visit melton.vic.gov.au/ home-support

Together, these initiatives reflect our commitment to building community capacity and ensuring everyone can participate in community life.

Finally, a draft concept plan for the Boathouse Reserve event lawn and play space at Lake Caroline has been prepared, and residents will be invited to provide feedback on this community space in March. Keep an eye out on City of Melton Conversations and Council’s Facebook page for information on how you can share your input.

You can contact me about Lake Caroline Ward or our City more generally on 0412 584 058 or email Kathy.Majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au

More than just four walls

For people who are socially isolated, culturally diverse or part of the LGBTQIA+ community, finding a space where they feel safe and welcomed can be a challenge. Courtney Black discovers how neighbourhood houses and other service organisations are working to change that.

When people think of a safe space, they might imagine comfort or security. But for people who are socially isolated, culturally diverse or part of the LGBTQIA+ community, safety can be shaped by far more than just four walls.

A new report by Neighbourhood Houses Victoria (NHV), titled Safe and Welcoming Community Spaces, reveals what matters most to these groups, and what determines whether someone walks through the door of a community space, or turns away.

NHV president Keir Paterson said a key first step in creating a safe space is implementing visible signs of inclusion.

“We looked into what cultural and linguistically diverse (CALD) people find welcoming in a space and it can be something really simple like having the word ‘welcome’ in different languages,” he said.

“They walk into a space and they know immediately that this is somewhere that’s accepting of them and their culture.”

The report found that visual signs of inclusion made many cohorts of diverse people feel safe and comfortable when entering a space.

“Some cohorts in the community might be carers, or neurodiverse people, or they might have lived experience of social isolation… it is important they feel welcome,” Mr Keir said.

Whittlesea Community Connections (WCC) quality coordinator, Anas Qishta said visual inclusion is significant in safe spaces, but it is important that this is not tokenistic.

“There are things organisations can do like a ‘welcome here’ sticker or a pride flag or a trans flag to help people feel welcome,” he said. “It’s even more important that the safety and risk mechanisms behind those are actually in place.”

In the report, participants emphasised that the culture of an organisation was more important in shaping their sense of safety than visual cues.

Mr Qishta said the community services sector was shifting from focusing on safe spaces to creating affirmative ones.

“The general sentiment is that a safe space without affirmation is encouraging neutrality,” he said.

WCC hosts rainbow support groups at local high schools, which he said acts as an affirming space for LGBTQIA+ youth.

He said when young people see tangible examples of lived experiences they can relate to, it helps them feel seen and connected to staff.

“They know straight away whether or not people are going to be okay with who they are as a person,” he said.

“Perhaps there will be a staff member in the group who is from a multicultural or migrant background and is also queer-

identifying themselves ... that really helps with affirmation.”

He said when direct representation was not possible, it was important that the content shown to students reflected their identities.

“There is power in representation … for example we show them examples of people in media who are gender diverse which really bridges the gap.”

In the report, privacy also emerged as a key concern beyond visual inclusion and affirmation. Mr Qishta said confidentiality is essential in creating safe spaces for diverse young people.

“We create an autonomous, student-led space for young people … our role is to give them the tools to do so safely.”

He said his hope for the future is to see more casual drop-in spaces for youth.

“Our students are lacking … longterm access, it takes a lot of time to build that rapport before all that work is in some

ways lost.

“That’s the first thing that needs to happen, creating those spaces where young people from different groups can actually come in and hang out.”

The report found that there is a desire forcasualdrop-inspacesformorethanjust LGBTQIA+ people but also seniors, CALD and socially isolated people who often cited increased hesitation in participating in formal, structured programs.

Mr Paterson said there is an overall lack of drop-in spaces, and it is difficult to deliver this without further support.

“People told us they’d really like spaces where they can just drop in, have a seat, have a coffee and catch up with someone,”

Mr Paterson said.

“If a neighbourhood house is owned by council, that means working with council to see how [drop-in spaces] could be implemented and whether funding is available.”

Creating an informal environment was important to Thomastown Neighbourhood HousemanagerLizSkitchwhendeveloping her new community hub.

“There are so many barriers to so many other spaces … to go into a coffee shop you might have to buy something … in another space you face discrimination,” Ms Skitch said.

“We allow walk-ins, people don’t even have to book online because bookings can be a barrier,” she said.

Socially isolated groups consistently felt negatively about formal protocols in community spaces, such as reporting to an office or signing in, as it reminded them of institutional settings, the report stated.

The report recommended community spaces create an informal atmosphere instead, with simple visuals like an open front door, couches, colourful artwork or garden beds to encourage people to enter.

Ms Skitch said she creates familiarity and comfortability through consistent programming.

“Our development model is about providing the community with what they want … once we know a program works we keep it.”

She said most programs at TNH run at the same time every week, with some operating for more than five years without schedule changes.

“It’s reassuring for people to know it’s on at the same time every week.”

Ms Skitch said programs would continue even if attendance numbers were low, or if a volunteer was unavailable.

“The worst thing is when people turn up and an activity is not on.

“Ifavolunteerissick,I’llruntheprogram myself … it’s about quality, not quantity.”

Mr Paterson said the report is an important step to making spaces safer, but that there is more work to be done.

“We’re always trying to make sure that each neighbourhood house is responsive to their communities... but as a sector, we need to evolve and we get better at meeting the needs of specific cohorts,” he said.

Cans for rescues

By Jack O’shea-Ayres

A Bacchus Marsh animal lover is turning bottles and cans into cash for struggling animal rescues, proving that giving back doesn’t need to break the bank.

Rachel Gormley, a Bacchus Marsh local since 2012, has launched a grassroots fundraising effort by collecting recyclable containers and donating the proceeds to local animal rescue organisations.

After nearly 18 years working in the corporate sector, Mrs Gormley made the leap into pet services, running a dog walking and pet care business she described as her “dream job”.

Mrs Gormley said the idea to fundraise through recycling came organically.

“I was literally just recycling my cans the other day and then I came home and thought, how do I raise money for rescues? I haven’t done it for a little while,” she said.

“It costs people nothing to do it. All they have to do is give me their recycled goods, I turn it into cash and give it to the rescue.”

Despite a terminal cancer diagnosis two years ago, Mrs Gormley’s want to give back has never changed.

“I’ve been unwell, but I’m just starting to get back on my feet now. That’s why I want to rack it up a bit.““

Mrs Gormley credited her recovery, in part, to strong community support.

“My husband has been amazing, and my clients have been phenomenal. Some I’ve had for nearly 10 years,” she said.

“The support system in Bacchus Marsh has been incredible. My clients have turned into my friends.”

Mrs Gormley’s passion for helping animals, she said, is driven by heartbreak over animal cruelty cases and the growing pressure on rescue organisations.

“My heart breaks when I see animal cruelty cases,” she said.

“Since Covid, the amount of animals

being dumped is unbelievable. These rescues are busting at the seams.”

She will be donating the proceeds to Second Chance animal rescue in Craigieburn.

Details: https://www.facebook.com/ SitNGo.com.au

Level the field

Football Victoria has launched a parliamentary petition urging the state government to invest in soccer infrastructure across the state, as rapid growth continues to place pressure on local clubs including Melton Phoenix.

The Level the Playing Field petition gives clubs and players the opportunity to have their concerns raised directly in the Victorian Parliament, and for the Phoenix the issue is close to home. With participation growing rapidly across Melton, the club said its facilities have not kept pace with demand.

It said limited change room space relative to the number of teams and pitches has forced the club to made tough decisions, including turning players away.

“We’re forced to turn players away or cap programs not because of a lack of interest or passion, but because our facilities simply haven’t kept pace with demand,” the club said in a statement.

The club noted strong support from Melton council in recent years, with the council funding upgrades to facilities that were previously in disrepair, however continued growth means further investment is needed, and that council requires additional state funding assistance to deliver the next stage of improvements.

6Melton MP Steve McGhie said he would advocate for improved facilities with his government colleagues.

MY PLACE

For more than two decades, Bacchus Marsh has been more than just an address for one passionate local, it’s been a home in every sense of the word. Drawn to the town in 2003 for its country charm, Natasha Evans quickly formed a deep connection to the valley’s landscapes, wildlife and tight-knit community. She chats with Jack O’Shea-Ayres.

What’s your connection to Bacchus Marsh?

It’s my home , and very dear to my heart! We wanted to live in the country but still within reach of Melbourne, so we chose Bacchus Marsh. I have been in the area since 2003 and have formed a real attachment to it.

What do you like about where you live?

It feels like a big country town and is easilyaccessibleandpeoplearefriendly. I love the river Red Gums and the two rivers running through the Bacchus Marsh valley.

What, if anything, would you change aboutwhereyoulive?

I would have more native understorey plantings and trees planted in parks and around the town to help the wildlife and to provide shade for pedestrians. This would also mean less mowing for the Council!

Where is your favourite local place to spendtime?

That’s a hard one! I love hiking and birdwatching in Werribee Gorge, Long Forest Mallee Reserve, and the local Peppertree Park walking trail next to the Werribee River.

Tell us something people would be surprisedtoknowaboutyou... IalsovolunteerwithFriendsofWerribee River through Bacchus Marsh, and I’m the vice president of Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance.

What inspires you to volunteer for GardensforWildlife?

I truly believe that we can make a difference to the planet by starting in our own backyards. I love to meet like-minded people and help them to enhance their gardens to better support biodiversity.Ilovesharingtheknowledge I have gained through formal education and my years of observing nature.

Faces of the west

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

I have dedicated more than three decades to public education, beginning my teaching career in 1990. I have always believed in education’s power to transform life trajectories—particularly for young people whose circumstances may otherwise limit opportunity.

Appointed Principal of Kurunjang Secondary College in October 2023, I brought deep system knowledge and a clear focus on lifting outcomes through high-impact teaching, strong leadership, and a culture of high expectations and genuine care. Since then, we have seen measurable improvements in student engagement and attendance, reflected in Attitudes to School Survey data and improving NAPLAN results.

“My ambition is clear: for Kurunjang Secondary College to be the school of choice—known for strong learning, high expectations, and authentic care for every student.”

I am especially proud of our literacy work. Long before it became widely discussed, I championed explicit, evidence-based literacy instruction in secondary settings. At Kurunjang, this sits within a new instructional model aligned with the Department of Education’s updated teaching framework. As it embeds, strong classroom practice is already evident, and we are confident it will further strengthen student outcomes.

As a principal from a culturally and linguistically diverse background who grew up in Melbourne’s northern suburbs, I understand how education opens doors. That lived experience continues to shape my moral purpose and leadership.

Ogston

Since

Dan Symons Campus Lead, New Gisborne

Dan Symons joins Global Village Learning as the Campus Lead for New Gisborne, bringing a thoughtful, relational approach to leadership and learning. Dan has spent much of his professional life exploring how schools can shape culture, not just through programs and outcomes but through the way daily learning experiences support curiosity, belonging and growth. His work is shaped by a deep interest in how young people make meaning, form identity and connect with their communities. These questions are central to the learning journey at GVL.

With a strong focus on wellbeing, Dan pays close attention to how learning environments interact with stress, anxiety and neurodiverse ways of being. His practice is grounded in care and connection, and he sees education as a trustbased partnership between learners, families and Guides.

He also brings a love of storytelling, often using film, literature and shared narratives to spark thoughtful conversation and deeper reflection with young people.

Dan chose to join Global Village Learning because it brings together the elements he values most: a learner-led, community-connected, human-centred approach to education. He is excited to contribute to a growing community that places relationships, relevance and real-world impact at the heart of learning.

Learn to make a spin drum

Eachmonth,StephanieMartinezwillshare anexcitingcraftprojectdesignedtoinspire and spark creativity.

Stephanie starred in the first season of Making It on Network 10, where she discovered and ignited her passion for crafting.

JoinStephanieassheexplorestheendless possibilities of crafting and turn everyday materials into something extraordinary. This month, Stephanie is creating Chinese New Year spin drums.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

30 years ago 14 February 1996

Melton traders were last week devising a strategy to defend themselves against the expected impact of the proposed Sydenham Regional Shopping Centre development.

20 years ago 14 February 2006

Melton Mayor Chris Papas has been tippedasapossiblechallengertoTelmo Languiller for the seat of Derrimut in November’s state election.

Chinese New Year spin drums

Materials - cardboard - cord - 2x beads

- rounded craft stick

Equipment - scissors - glue gun - awl (or something sharp to poke a hole) - pencil - ruler

Step 1: Cut out 2 cardboard circles (9cm) and 1 cardboard strip (3cm wide) long enough to wrap around the circle.

Step 2: Curve the strip and glue it around the edge of one circle to form the drum.

Step 3: Before closing the drum, poke one hole on each side, directly opposite each other.

Step 4: Thread a piece of cord through both holes and tie a bead to each end on the outside.

Step 5: Poke a hole in the centre of the bottom of the drum. Slide a rounded craft stick into the hole and glue it in place to make the handle.

Step 6: Glue the second cardboard circle on top to close the drum.

Step 7: Decorate the drum.

Step 8: Hold the handle and twist the drum side to side to play. Happy Chinese New Year!

15 years ago 15 February 2011

Meltonresidentsarestrugglingtomake ends meet with power bills rising $100 a year and further straining household costs, according to a leading charity.

10 years ago 16 February 2016

Moorabool residents may have to pay average rates of up to $1960 next financial year if the council applies to have a new rate cap lifted.

Cruise North America

By Lee Mccarthy

Take in historic cities and rugged shores with Viking’s 15-day Canada and East Coast Explorer voyage from Toronto, Ontario to Fort Lauderdale, Florida or vice versa.

Fifteen days, seven guided tours, two countries and countless meals and experiencesensurethisistheperfectonce inalifetimecruise.

Start the cruise in Toronto savouring the diversity of Toronto’s food scene and exploresomeofthecity’streasures.

On day two, guests can experience the series of locks, canals and channels that comprisetheSt.LawrenceSeaway.

Day three, those who wish to can be immersed in the religious heritage of Trois-Rivieres during a trip to a historic shrinetotheVirginMary.

Guests can explore the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield during an exhilarating Zodiac ride or take to the water in a kayak and explore the surrounding with a member of the Viking ExpeditionTeam.

For the culinary lovers enjoy a selection oflocalfavouritesasyouexplorethecity’s culinary roots during a walk around Trois-Rivières.

Travellers will step back in time to explore the intriguing history of Quebec City during an excursion through its old town or explore the contrasting landscapes that form the Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area during a hiking excursion.

Experience the world’s largest naval base in Norfolk, travel Nova Scotia’s shores and rugged landscapes and visit Quebec’sNationalParks.

Viking’s inclusive value includes everything you need, such as a guided excursionineveryport,allonboardmeals including alternative dining venues, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, unlimited Wi-Fi, 24-hour specialty tea, coffee, and bottled water, access to the state-of-the-art Nordic spa, self-service laundry,andalltipping.Withnochildren, no casinos, fewer than 1,000 guests, and all veranda staterooms, Viking’s award-winning ships take you as close as possibletoeachdestination.

Guests can go underground in Cape Breton and get a glimpse of what life was like digging coal at the Cape Breton MinersMuseum.

One treat guaranteed to please is a visit

toPeggy’sCovetoenjoyadeliciouslobster lunch in the picture-perfect postcard seaside village or discover distinctly Nova Scotian wines during a visit to Petit Rivière Vineyards in the Lahave River Valley or sample a selection of local beer in Nova Scotia’s picturesque South Shore district.

Enjoy Charleston’s southern charm and colonial homes and embark on a guided exploration by motor coach or experience the natural beauty of the low country duringavisittooneoftheonlyteamfarms intheUnitedStates.

LearnhowtopreparetypicalCharleston dishes during an interactive cooking demonstration and explore the streets of Charleston during a walking tour as guests are invited to step inside one of the city’shistorichomes.

The cruise arrives in Ft. Lauderdale Florida, with many guests taking advantage of the Post Cruise Extension to enjoy additional days exploring. A two-night extension in Ft Lauderdale costs from $1499 and is a stunning end to atrulystunningfifteendays.

While sailing, guests can attend lectures, watch a film in the eight

thousand laser-projected panoramic screen in The Aula or focus on wining and dining, whatever the choice, Viking offers an unbeatable holiday in understated elegance.

Right now, the cruise is priced from $12,295 per person for a Nordic Balcony saving up to $2500 per booking with Viking’s“Flyfree,flightupgradecredit”. Bookbefore31March2026.

7 Nights

Dec 2026 - Mar 2027

Your unforgettable holiday includes:

Iconic Experiences, Expertly Escorted

Full day Barossa Valley tour with lunch and wine tastings including: Saltram wine estate, lunch and wine tasting at Lambert Estate, visit to Barossa Valley Chocolate Company, photo stop at Menglers Hill Lookout, vineyard tour & wine tasting at Jacob’s Creek visitor centre, stop at Beerenberg Farm, and free time in Hahndorf to explore the historic German settlement

2 day Kangaroo Island tour including: Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery, Clifford’s Honey Farm, In-Flight Birds of Prey Display at Raptor Domain, Seal Bay Conservation Park guided beach walk, lunch at Emu Bay Lavender Farm, Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, and Flinders Chase National Park

Full-Board River Elegance

3 night Murray River cruise on board PS Murray Princess with all meals and sightseeing Tour of Murray River Bridge and historic Roundhouse

Guided nature walk of Salt Bush Flat Taste Riverland food and wine

Dragon-Fly flat-bottomed boat wildlife tour

Hand-Picked Hotel Stays

3 nights four-star hotel stay in Adelaide with breakfast

1 night four-star hotel stay in Kangaroo Island with breakfast, lunch and dinner

All Flights, Taxes & Transfers

12 DAYS • 1 COUNTRY 11 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL • MAY, AUG-DEC 2026; JAN-JUN, AUG-DEC 2027; 2028

Step into the land of pharaohs and timeless wonders. Viking invites you to experience Egypt like never before. Sail the legendary Nile on a 12-day cruisetour through Egypt and enjoy an included shore excursion to the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum — the world’s largest archaeological museum and home to Tutankhamun’s treasures. Witness history in the making while indulging in the comfort and elegance of Viking’s award-winning river ships.

From $11,395pp in Standard Stateroom From $13,695pp in Veranda Stateroom

Above and beyond

By Jack O’shea-Ayres

Local Gordon legends Lisa Plaisted and Jessica Wibberley are set to hit the road for the second time raising funds and awareness for mental health with Beyond Blue’sannualrally,BeyondtheBitumen.

Beyond the bitumen is all about going bush, using rally driving techniques in navigation and driving to get participants to a predetermined destination through theunbeatentrack.

It’s all about spirit, fun and getting the conversation going around mental health, with all funds raised going directly to BeyondBlue’scause.

Lisa and her sister began the tradition at last year’s first ever Victorian rally, followingthetragicdeathofLisa’spartner.

“In 2024 my partner Matthew passed away. He was always full of laughter and jokes, lighting up any room he walked. It all started from there, really,” Ms Plaisted said.

Shesaidtheexperienceliftedaweightoff hershouldersduringanemotionaltime.

“It was really liberating. The first couple ofdayswereprettyemotional.Wewerethe youngestandonlyall-girlsteamtodoit.”

What made the rally even more special forLisawasthecarwhichtookherandher sister on the 1500 kilometre journey, a BA FalconutebelongingtoMatthew.

“The ute was Matthew’s, which he’d transferred to me before his passing. We decided to dedicate that ute to doing the rallies,”MsPlaistedsaid.

“It’s a bit of a talking point, people stop to ask about it and it starts conversations, it just gets people chatting and that’s the wholepoint.”

BUSINESS PROFILE

Sisters Lisa Plaisted and Jessica Wibberley will set off on their 1500km journey on 26 February. Inset: Lisa and Jess’s BA Falcon ute, formerly belonging to Lisa’s late partner. (Pictures: Supplied)

Thisyear’sjourneystartsinGeelongon26 February, heading towards Warrnambool, thenthroughMtGambier.

Ms Plaisted the rally is a powerful reminder of human connection, and how conversationscanmakeadifference.

“It doesn’t matter whether you’re male or female, your background or culture. It doesn’t matter who you are, you can do it,” shesaid.

“Things can break down and go wrong,

but that’s when you get chatting. It’s just suchagoodexperience.”

DonationscanbemadetoLisaandJess’s cause at https://beyond-bitumen-vic. raiselysite.com/lisa-plaisted Ifyouorsomeoneyouknowisstruggling, supportisavailableathttps://www.lifeline. org.au/.

Heritage changes are on the way

Moorabool council has moved to formally protect more than 100 heritage places across the western part of the shire, voting to adopt an amendment to its heritage planning study at the Wednesday 4 February meeting.

The amendment implements the West Moorabool Heritage Study 2A Review, applying the Heritage Overlay to 106 individual properties and seven heritage precincts across Ballan, Blackwood, Bungaree, Gordon, Lal Lal, Millbrook, Mount EgertonandWallace.

Council unanimously approved the amendment after considering a reportfromanindependentplanning panel, which found the proposal had a strong strategic basis and aligned withstateandlocalplanningpolicy.

The amendment attracted 13 submissions during its public exhibition between March and April last year, with four submissions objecting to heritage controls on specific properties. Others sought factual corrections or updates to statementsofsignificance.

The amendment will permanently apply heritage controls through the Moorabool Planning Scheme. Some works will now require a planning permit, including demolition, major alterationsornewdevelopment,with someminorworksexemptthankstoa new exemptions document designed to avoid unnecessary costs and red tapeforlandowners.

Empowering young minds at Aspire – Enrol for 2026!

More than just childcare, Aspire is a community built on connection. Our educators take the time to truly know each child, creating classrooms filled with warmth, joy and a sense of belonging. Families can feel confident knowing their children are safe, supported and thriving eachday.

Guided by our four pillars — Exceptional Care, Every Day; Joy in Every Moment; Learning That Sparks Curiosity; and Together, We Grow - Aspire partners with families to raise confident, curious and capablelearners.

We’re proud to offer a strong network

of Aspire centres, with 9 locations across the Melton area, giving families flexible, high-quality early education options close tohome. Familiesareencouragedtosecure theirplace,withlimitedvacanciesavailable at Aspire Deanside and Deanside Village, AspireThornhillParkandThornhillVillage, Aspire Rockbank Village and Aspire Weir Views. With so many convenient locations, finding the right fit for your child and your routinehasneverbeeneasier.

Each of our centres offer high-quality programs that are tailored to support the transitionsthroughoutachild’seducational journey, from our nurseries, all the way

through to kindergarten. Through our inspiring and safe learning environments, children are supported to help them reach theirfullpotential.

Because these early years matter most, andatAspire,wemakethemextraordinary.

We go above and beyond to empower young minds with curiosity, confidence, andcompassionthatlastsalifetime.

With 2026 enrolments open, there has never been a better time to begin your Aspirejourney.

Come and see the difference genuine care makes and enquire now at our nearest Aspirecentre.

registertodayand

Positioned in one of Brookfield’s most sought-after, tree-lined courts, this architecturally designed family home sits proudly on an impressive 1,112m2 (approx.) allotment and offers space, quality and lifestyle in equal measure. With Melton Christian College at the end of the street, Melton Train Station within walking distance and easy access to schools, shops and transport, the location is simply unbeatable. From the manicured gardens and striking façade to the light-filled interior, this home makes a statement. Step inside to be greeted by a soaring 15ft ceiling void and feature windows that flood the living spaces with natural light over beautiful encaustic tiles.

The master bedroom is a true retreat,

featuring plantation shutters, feature lighting, triple set cornicing, ceiling fan, walk-in robe and a renovated ensuite with floor-to-ceiling tiles and matt black fixtures. Opposite sits the dedicated theatre room, perfect for relaxed family movie nights.

Upstairs, the loft provides a flexible space including a bedroom with exceptional storage, a study and its own private retreat overlooking the main living zone, making it ideal for teenagers, guests or a home office setup.

At the heart of the home, the stunning kitchen showcases shaker-style cabinetry, 40mm stone benchtops, half shell handles, De’Longhi 900mm freestanding cooker, upgraded sink and tapware, overhead cabinetry, double-door pantry and walk-in

Located in one of Harkness’ most desirable pockets, this exceptional home sits on a massive 1,173m2 (approx.) block and delivers space, luxury and lifestyle in equal measure. Featuring four huge bedrooms, the master impresses with a walk-in robe and luxury ensuite with double vanity, spa bath and oversized shower. Multiple living areas include a theatre room, open-plan living and a large rumpus. The stunning kitchen showcases an 80mm stone island, 20mm stone throughout, Smeg 900mm freestanding cooker, walk-in pantry and quality appliances. Outside, enjoy a huge alfresco, Colourbond pergola, landscaped

gardens, workshop shed and plenty of space for kids and pets. Extras include refrigerated heating and cooling, high ceilings, stone benchtops, downlights and double garage with internal access.

Price $939,000 - $969,000

Agent Kate McGlone 0401 853 244 & Ryan Anders 0434 900 300

Private Sale Open Times Saturday the 21st of Feb 2:00pm – 2:20pm

pantry. The adjoining open-plan living and meals area is enhanced by soaring ceilings, feature windows and a gas fireplace, creating a warm and inviting space yearround.

Three further bedrooms with built-in robes are serviced by the updated central bathroom, while the renovated laundry offers stone benchtops, great storage and direct access to the double garage. Outside is an entertainer’s dream, with an oversized pergola overlooking the saltchlorinated swimming pool complete with water features and lighting. The backyard also includes extended concreting, established gardens, planter boxes, open grassed areas and secure fencing, while the double garage offers convenient drive-

through access.

With features including ducted heating, evaporative cooling, CCTV, internal server, upgraded window furnishings, Tasmanian Oak flooring, gas fireplace, extensive storage and irrigated gardens, this is a premium family home in a premium location.

5 + Study22

Price $1,059,000 - $1,119,000

Agent Tahlia Hall 0422 419 589 & Ryan Anders 0434 900 300

Method Private Sale Open Times Saturday the 21st of Feb 1:00pm – 1:30pm Land size 1112m2

This extraordinary lifestyle property set on approximately 41.5 acres in Coimadai offers luxury, space and breathtaking surrounds just a short drive from town. The home features five bedrooms plus study, multiple living zones, a private theatre, retreat areas and a spectacular kitchen with premium appliances, stone benchtops and quality finishes throughout. Upstairs and downstairs living options make this ideal for large families or entertaining. Outside, enjoy electric gates, a tree-lined driveway, multiple paddocks, a large dam, three water tanks and a huge shed with

space for multiple vehicles. With stunning views from every angle and exceptional upgrades throughout, this is a once-in-alifetime lifestyle opportunity.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Pastry baking

Learn some new pastry and baking skills at the Melton South Community Centre, starting 21 February. Cost: $120 or $100 concession.

 9747 8576

Computer classes

Computer classes starting at the Melton South Community Centre. Absolute beginners computers, being safe Online, Canva and more.

 9747 8576

First Aid Qualification

Update your First Aid qualification on Saturday 21 February at Melton South Community Centre. This course includes CPR (HLTAID009), which is required to be updated annually, as well as training on asthma and anaphylaxis.

 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

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.

 rotarycarolinesprings@gmail.com

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Evening of folk at Ballan

Get ready for an unforgettable night of music and storytelling as the Festival of Small Halls brings world-class folk talent to Ballan next month.

On Wednesday 4 March, Ballan’s Neighbourhood House is set to come to life with the incredible sounds of Irishborn Canadian Irish Mythen and Aussie Kaurna Cronin as they bring their Festival of Small Halls Autumn tour right to Moorabool’s doorstep.

Local artist Jayden Spence will also be taking to the stage to kick off the evening of folk talent.

Irish Mythen’s latest release Little

Bones earned them recognition right around the globe, including a 2020 JUNO nomination for Contemporary Roots Album of the Year.

“This will be my 10 year anniversary of Small Halls Australia and I cannot put into words how words just how bloody stoked I am to be back,” Mythen said.

“This magical country, these incredible audiences - they just give me life, and every single day is an adventure. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to head back out on the road.”

Kaurna Cronin also boasts a long list of impressive recognition. A previous recip-

ient of Folk Alliance Australia’s Artist of the Year and a two-time Australian Folk Music Awards nominee, Cronin is an Australian folk-rock rover whose songs reflect the human condition.

“I’m so looking forward to being back on the road in Australia,” Cronin said.

“I grew up traversing the country in my parents’ beat-up yellow Toyota Hiace top-top van, so I’m excited be out on those roads again, and sharing songs with the Small Halls tour.”

Guitar virtuoso to take centre stage

The tiny, yet very mighty, Melbourne Chamber Orchestra is making its way to the west later this month.

The orchestra will present its new show Flexible Sky, starring Slava Grigoryan, on Friday 27 February at the Clocktower Centre in Moonee Ponds.

The show celebrates innovation and aims to delight audiences with a world-premiere performance by Joe Chindamo, a composer celebrated for his cross-genre fluency.

Grigoryan’s artistry will shine in Vivaldi’s D major Concerto, a baroque gem

sparkling with charm and vitality.

In Flexible Sky, Melbourne Chamber Orchestra showcases Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata before finishing with a rhythmically charged and emotionally satisfying close in Matthew Hinderson’s Song and Dance.

Grigoryan has built a prolific international reputation as a classical guitar virtuoso. His long-standing relationships with Sony Classical, ABC Classics in Australia, ECM in Germany and his own label Which Way Music have resulted in more than 30 solo and collaborative albums

spanning a wide range of genres.

He has appeared at numerous national and international arts and guitar festivals, won four ARIA Awards for Best Classical Album, and performs regularly as a soloist with all of Australia’s symphony orchestras. Grigoryan has completed three critically acclaimed tours with the Australian Chamber Orchestra and has performed at many of the world’s leading venues.

The Melbourne Chamber Orchestra is led by artistic director Sophie Rowell. The show starts at 7.30pm.

Models would like the pleasure of your company at February gig

Iconic Melbourne band and ARIA Hall of Fame inductees, Models bring their post-punk -new wave vibes to Kindred Bandroom in Yarraville on Friday 20 February.

When they formed in the late 1970’s, Models were hailed as one of the most innovative and imaginative Australian bands and were often spoken of in the same breath as the Birthday Party, The Sports and INXS.

Four decades later, and while plenty about the band and their contemporaries has changed, their approach to making music hasn’t.

Models have always done things their own way.

As the authors of The 100 Best Australian Albums (which featured Models’ The Pleasure Of Your Company) stated “Melbourne electronic outfit Models followed a distinctly perverse and disjointed course from the outset”.

The long and winding course will see them stop by the inner west next weekend, not far from where founding bass player, Mark Ferrie, and current drummer, Ash Davies, live.

Sean Kelly and Andrew Duffield round out Models current line-up and will be

This year’s event in Ballan serves as the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of Port Fairy’s Folk Festival right here in the community, with Ballan’s Neighbourhood House Mechanics Hall serving as the perfect destination with years of history hosting weddings, funerals, festivals, and everything in between.

Tickets are priced at $20 for full admission and $15 for concession and are available at https://festivalofsmallhalls. com/ballan-2026/.

Festival of Small Halls is a series of tours which takes the best folk and contemporary acoustic artists performing at two of Australia’s largest festivals and sends them on the road to tiny halls in regional communities across Australia.

New chapter for festival

Lovers of literature rejoice!

The Brimbank Writers and Readers Festival is returning next month for its biggest event to date.

Thirty-four events will run over six days, from 12-17 March, featuring artists, cooks, gardeners, film makers, songwriters, book authors and a dating expert.

Brimbank mayor Virginia Tachos said the program offers a diversity of stories and perspectives that reflect the community.

“For 21 years, the Brimbank Writers and Readers Festival has played an important role encouraging writing talent in Brimbank and Melbourne’s western region. And to celebrate we are presenting the biggest festival to date with a huge line-up of creative talent,” Cr Tachos said.

The festival’s opening night will spotlight author Nam Le, winner of the Dylan Thomas Prize and the Prime Minister’s Literary Award for fiction and author of ‘The Boat’ and ‘36 Ways of Writing a Vietnamese Poem’. Le will share stories about cultural heritage, family, and collective identity.

Author Andy Griffiths, who has sold more than 19 million books in over 35 countries and is renowned for his cheeky and irreverent humour, is also part of the line up.

Other festival highlights include Alita Brydon (‘Bad Dates of Melbourne’), comedian Nelly Thomas (‘The Single Life of Us’), authors Darryl Jones and Dave Witty, artists Callum Morton and Jen Berean, filmmakers Adrian Ortega, Kalu Oji, Kaede Miyamura and Goran Stolevski, and media professionals professor Andrea Carson, author and journalist Margaret Simons and ABC radio journalist Luke Siddham Dundon.

joining Davies and Ferrie for the special one-off show which kicks off at 7.30pm.

Despite more than 40 years together, punters attending the show shouldn’t expect a nostalgia act.

Models have had long periods in hibernation, but have never broken up and have continued to record and release new material.

Andrew Duffield said even their earlier songs still sounded fresh.

“We don’t think of them as being old,” he said.

Models never go out of style.

Details: https://shorturl.at/DAa9f

Other authors include Deborah Ong, Kate Mildenhall, Santilla Chingaipe, Aunty Fay Stewart-Muir, Andrea Rowe, Marguerita Stephens, Andrea Carson, Jen Berean, Darcy Green, Thomas Vowles, Jax Bulstrode and many more.

The festival also offers a range of workshops for participants looking for help to share their own stories.

Topics include, how to write picture books, self-publishing, reliable writing practice, writing for reels, and healing through poetry, among others.

Funded by Brimbank council and Victoria University, all events and activities are free to attend.

Details: brimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au/ BWRF

Star Weekly seeks an enthusiastic Full or Part time Sales Executive to work across our print, digital, social and online platforms.

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future.

The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business.

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance.

The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

Send your application letter and resume to: Advertising Sales Manager, Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au www.starnewsgroup.com.au

SPORTS QUIZ

1. In TheWaterboy, what is the nickname of the team Adam Sandler’s character eventually plays for?

2. Who is Australia’s Chef de Mission at the 2026 Winter Olympics?

3. Quentin Peterson last

4. Which Ipswich-born Australian sprinter recently announced he will not be competing at the 2026 Commonwealth Games?

5. Brisbane Broncos prop Payne Haas will play

The national netball team of which country is known as the Sunshine Girls?

Los Angeles Laker Jaxson Hayes recently served a one-game suspension

Australian golfer Elvis Smylie recently won the 2026 edition of which LIV

Which two teams took part in the 2026 AFL Origin

Who will Australia face in the opening game of the 2027 Rugby World Cup?

11. In curling, what is the object thrown known as?

12. And what are they made of?

13. Who created the martial art Jeet Kune Do (JKD)?

14. To the nearest million, what is the 2026 AFL salary cap?

15. Which NBA player is nicknamed ‘The Beard’?

16. Which sport league is abbreviated as NPB?

17. Which team won Super Bowl LX (2026)?

18. And in that game, who became the second Australian to play in a Super Bowl?

19. Which running back was awarded the MVP of Super Bowl LX?

20. Which politician was booed during the 2026 Winter Olympics opening ceremony?

21. What is the last name of English cricketing brothers Tom and Sam?

22. Which 2026 reality TV show pits Australian athletes from different sporting codes against each other?

23. How many players are there in a handball team?

24. Which two countries participated in the Olympic ice hockey game known as the ‘Miracle on Ice’?

25. And in which year was that Olympics held?

26. Alongside Josh Giddey, which other Australian basketballer will earn $38 million in 2026?

27. In snooker, what colour is the ball that is worth five points?

28. Which MLS team shares its name with a firstresponder NBC show?

29. True or false: ultimate frisbee is a contact sport?

30. Mark Evans is currently the CEO of which AFL club?

1 Supplicates (5)

4 Provider of information (9)

9 Belittle (5)

10 Middle Age armour (5,4)

11 For blinking (6)

12 Formal request signed by many people (8)

14 Choice (10) 15 Exclamation of surprise (3)

17 Tentacle (3)

19 Public estimation (10)

23 Slow (8)

24 Skilfully produces (6)

26 Purifying (9) 27 Greenish (5)

28 Game birds (9)

29 Frozen shower (5)

1 Heavenly body (6)

2 Non-professional (7)

3 Local law enforcer (7)

4 Measure of length (imp) (4)

5 Brotherhood (10)

6 Length of a film (7) 7 Miraculous (7)

8 Masterful (8)

13 Relative dimensions or size (10)

16 Disability (8)

18 People of Malta (7)

19 Viewing figures (7)

20 Fears (7)

21 Disconnected (7)

22 Appearance (6)

25 Ova (4)

1 What is a cowslip? 2 Is Quito, the capital of Ecuador, in the Northern or Southern Hemisphere?

3 Actor Kristen Stewart (pictured) stars in a 2016 music video for which rock band?

4 What unit of measurement is used to measure the height of a horse?

A

7 What is the only type of penguin found above the equator?

8 What pen-name did writer Eric Blair go by? 9 A hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat and coated in breadcrumbs is known as a what?

10 The first episode of Doctor Who aired in which decade?

Further bonus for Ioniq 5

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

The Ioniq 5 burst onto the local electric vehicle scene more than three years ago likethegreyhoundfavouriteoutofatrapat the Dapto Dogs.

The Dapto dishlickers have since gone to thedogs,withthetrackwindingup,butthe Hyundai-built Ioniq 5 crossover SUV has continued to live a storied life, which has included being named the 2022 World Car of the Year.

Now the MY25 Ioniq 5 five-seat SUV locally has won styling updates, new features and technology, and two new battery sizes delivering up to 570km of range. Three model grades are on offer, with the choice of Standard (440km) and Extended (up to 570km) range of powertrains, plus optional N Line and Digital Mirror Packs.

ThebaseBEV,with63kWhbattery,comes to market at $69,800, plus on-road costs. With an 84kWh battery from the Ioniq 5 N,thepricegoesupto$75,800.ADynamiq, with the latter battery, sells for $80,800 and an Epiq tops off the lot at $84,300.

The N Line Pack adds exclusive styling and unique 20-inch alloy wheels, while Epiq gains LED projection headlights with an intelligent front lighting system.

All Ioniq 5 models are covered by Hyundai’s five-year, unlimited kilometre vehiclewarrantyandeight-year,160,000km high-voltage battery cover.

Styling

Already a leader in the design of electric vehicles, Hyundai stylists were cluey enough to lay a light hand on the iconic Ioniq 5.

The new look is highlighted by a revised front bumper, skid plate and ‘hidden’ lighting, plus flat aluminium badging. New 19- and 20-inch alloy wheels

reshape the car’s unique profile, while at the rear, a revised bumper, spoiler and the addition of a windscreen wiper, and one of 10 exterior colours, complete the look.

Interior

A nod to the past is a reworked centre console with simpler seat heating and ventilation controls via buttons. Also given a lift are seat pattern, steering wheel, instrument cluster bezel and multimedia screen.

Lookingintothefuture,theMY25Ioniq’s cabin introduces the latest iteration of Hyundai’sConnectedCarNext-Generation Cockpit, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluelink Connected Car Services and Over-The-Air updates.

The entry-level Ioniq 5 now has single-tone black wool and eco-processed leather upholstery in place of the previous two-tone cloth. An eco-processed black leather is now standard on Dynamiq and Epiq interiors.

Cargo storage ranges from 527 to 1587 litres; 57 litres up front in the rear-wheel drive and 24 litres the all-wheel drive. There’s a centrally located large bin and cupholders, plus a wireless smartphone charger.

Rear-seat legroom is limited by the battery pack lodged under the body. Headroom is just the opposite.

Infotainment

The latest Ioniq 5 features the award-winning Connected Car Next-Generation Cockpit, incorporating multimedia and instrumentation in an all-in-one interface inspired by the interface of the ubiquitous smartphone.

The all-new 12.3-inch multimedia system features a CPU with four times more computing power and 15 times

more graphical processing power than the previous system.

Added to this is a high-definition 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster displaying sat nav directions, visual SmartSense safety alerts, plus speedo, tacho, fuel and temperature info in digital form or classic needle-type gauges.

Bluelink Connected Car Services and Over-The-Air software updates are available across the range, the former free for the first five years of ownership.

Engines/transmissions

The MY25 Ioniq 5 2WD comes with a 63kWh battery in Standard Range and is upped to a 84kWh battery in Extended Range, with a lithium-ion permanent magnet synchronous electric motor and single-speed automatic transmission

putting out 125kW of power and 350Nm of torque to the rear wheels.

Safety

Seven airbags, including front centre, side are the prelude to top safety, which also includesforwardcollision-avoidanceassist 2, forward with oncoming vehicle, evasive steering assist, smart cruise control and lane assist.

Intelligent front lining automatically dips the beam in the face of oncoming traffic to avoid dazzling drivers.

Driving

As I’ve said before, I’m not a fan of flush door handles, which are not the easiest to operate with one hand. That said, I cannot fault the smooth, quiet powertrain operation and general lack of intrusive cabin turbulence.

As well as battery boosts extended the Ioniq 5 operation, the MY25 model has undergone improvements to ride and handling through increased chassis rigidity and revised suspension tuning. Chassis changes include upgraded body reinforcements in the B and C pillar door surroundsandanunderbodycrossbar.The increased body stiffness has led to positive impacts. These include improved steering response and feedback, reduced vibration throughthesteeringwheel,enhancedbody control and stability, plus improved noise, vibration and harshness suppression.

Summary

“With greater range and an array of safety and technological upgrades, the refreshed 2025 iteration of our award-winning Ioniq 5 gives EV buyers an even more persuasive SUV package,” says Hyundai Motor Company Australia chief executive Ted Lee. My thoughts too.

Sport around the grounds

Burnside United on top

By Tara Murray

Burnside Springs United couldn’t have asked for much more on day one of its Victorian Turf Cricket Association Russell Pollock Shield clash. with Donnybrook on Saturday.

With top spot still on the line in the last two rounds, a win is important for both Burnside and Donnybrook in the top of the table clash.

It was Burnside that was on top after day one of the clash.

“Honestly, it was a really good day,” captain-coach Ashan Ranaweera said.

“It played out exactly had we wanted it to. We wanted to keep them to 140 and then see what the boys could do.

“I’m so proud of the boys and what we are doing.”

Burnside needed just 60 overs to bowl Donnybrook out for 140.

Shohan Rangika continued his good form with 5-32 off his overs.

Burnside will resume at 2-31 on day two of the match.

Ranaweera said while disappointed to lose two late wickets it was something that happened with pressure late on the day one with not many overs to face.

He said they backed their batters in on day two to get the job done this Saturday.

Ranaweera said they had seen this match as the big one heading into the final series.

A win against Donnybrook would put it 10 points ahead of Donnybrook and at least

seven ahead Roxburgh Park, to go one step closer to sealing top spot.

He said things were going well across the whole club.

“The players are the difference,” he said. “They are doing a lot of hard work and we are on top of the ladder in our firsts, seconds and thirds.

“We didn’t plan anything in particular.

“We started with a plan and stuck with the plan all the way through to the end

“They are all training hard.”

Burnside’s form has also transpired into the T20 competition.

Burnside will play in the semi finals on Tuesday night against Glenroy for a spot in the group B grand final.

Ranaweera said ti was exciting for the

Consistency key to Warrior’s finals hopes

By Tara Murray

The Western Warriors are hoping a bit more consistency will push them into the Victorian Netball League finals for the first time.

The Warriors have finished with six wins in each of their first two seasons but have struggled to match it week in, week out.

Last season they dropped several games that they should have won.

Warriors coach Kim Bailey said they had looked to add some more depth across the court.

“It’s really exciting and it’s been a long pre-season,” she said. “We’re ready to go.

“We’re looking pretty good and I think we have strengthened our defence line.

“Megan Allen will make a big difference in regards to physicality.

“Finn [Fionnuala Mckeagney-Stubbs ] adds a different dimension in the defence line as well.

“Mia Lavis in attack has been working really hard with Kim Borger. Kali Dolphin has been incredible in the mid-court and I’m excited to see what she can do.”

Borger had announced her retirement from VNL after last season, but will play this season as well as being an assistant coach for the 23 and unders.

She will replace Rebecca Hicks who can’t commit to playing after moving to the country.

“Kim came out of retirement to help us,” Bailey said.

“Her fitness is the best I’ve seen in a long time. There’s more different combinations with her and Mia and there has been a really good success.

“It’s always been seamless with her and Poppy [Douglass].”

Bailey said having Ruby Shannon back at full fitness would help them massively in the midcourt after she missed several weeks with an ankle injury last year.

Olivia Ellis is another who will return from injury and help the defensive midcourt position.

Allen makes the move from England to play for the Warriors, having played in the English Netball Super League.

“She sent out an email saying she wanted to come out and play and did we have any

playing group as its the first time they’ve got to finals in the turf T20 competition.

“Who knows what we will happen,” he said. “You can’t tell how it will exactly go.

“We’re excited for it.”

Elsewhere in the Russell Pollock Shield, Melton Centrals are in trouble against St Andrew’s Footscray.

Centrals were bowled out for 119 in the 48th over.

Captain Warren Haffenden top scored with 31 not out.

The Saints will resume at 3-67.

In senior division, Sydenham-Hillside has already conceded first innings points against Deer Park while in the Roy Picone Shield, Caroline Springs made 7-304 against Melton South Royals.

RDFL

Diggers Rest has announced another signing for the Riddell District Football League season. Dylan Stone joins the Burras from the Wangaratta Rovers. He has Victorian Football League experience and a regular Ovens and Valley Murray Football League interleague representative. The Burras said he has skill, speed and big-game nous.

EDFL

Hillside has announced four new signings for its women’s program for the Essendon District Football League season. Lily McRostie joins the Sharks from South Melbourne Districts in the Victorian Amateur Football Association where she won the club best and fairest. Lusiya Azina moves over from Darley from the Ballarat League, while Jodie Willis and Shontaine Barker both join the club from Melton.

BCA

Bacchus Marsh has already claimed first innings points against Buninyong in the Ballarat Cricket Association. Buninyong won the toss and decided to bat and was bowled out for 78. Bradley Croxford took 3-14 for the Bulls, while three other players took two wickets each. The Bulls finished 2-94 at stumps. Meanwhile, Darley made 213 against Napoleons Sebastopol. The Dragons finished the day at 1-2 in reply. Darley needs to keep on winning if it is to play finals.

Bowls

spots,” Bailey said.

“We had a couple of chats on teams and watched some footage and it was very impressive.

“We’ve been delighted with how she has fitted in with the group.”

The Warriors have a number of practice matches lined up before the season gets underway on 11 March.

Bailey said consistency would be the biggest key for them.

“We need to make sure to get over the line in close games to make finals,” she said.

“We know we can make finals.

“We know how to buckle down and do what we need to do.”

Meanwhile, Bailey said they had kept the core group of their under-23s together and added some more depth.

She said Charlize Bellette, who joins from Geelong, in attack and Taylah Easton, who is an Australian under-19 squad member, in defence would make a difference.

“The girls didn’t finish as high as we would have liked,” she said.

“Another year under their belts in VNL will hopefully make a difference.”

Melton claimed top spot in the Bowls Victoria weekend pennant division 2, section 2 competition. The Mustangs finished the regular season with a 101 (18)-59 (0) win against Deer Park 3 to lock in top spot and a home final on Saturday. The Mustangs finished four points clear of Moonee Ponds who they will face on Saturday for a spot in the grand final. The loser will play in a preliminary final on Sunday against the winner of Altona 2 and Rosamond. Bacchus Marsh finished its division 1, section 1 season on a winning note, beating Port Melbourne, 102 (16)-68 (2). The win moved Bacchus Marsh off the bottom of the ladder. FOR

& Moorabool Star Weekly

Eagles claim a big scalp

Eynesbury Eagles pulled off one of the upsets of the Gisborne and District Cricket Association Johnstone Shield season on Saturday.

With just one win of the season, the Eagles put a dent in Kilmore’s finals hopes with a solid performance to claim their second win of the season.

The Eagles were bowled out for 177 late on day one of the match.

On Saturday, they got off to a perfect start with an early wicket.

Kilmore managed to put a couple of small partnerships together, but the Eagles kept taking wickets at the right time.

The Eagles would take the final three wickets for just four runs to seal the win as they bowled Kilmore out for 9-128, with

one batter not batting at all.

Majid Khan took 3-15 for the Eagles.

The win moves the Eagles up to sixth spot, now above Harkness and Lancefield.

The Eagles face Lancefield the next two Saturdays in a two-dayer which would go a long way to seal its fate in the Johnstone Shield.

Diggers Rest Bulla got another win in the quest for a top two spot.

Facing the Sunbury Kangaroos, the Burras had made 226 on day one of the match.

The Kangaroos resumed at 0-7 on Saturday.

They were able to put some early partnerships together to put pressure on the Burras.

Once the Burras got through the middle

order, the tail showed little resistance and the Kangaroos were bowled out for 168.

Tristan Krizanic took 3-41 for the Burras.

The Burras are now clear in second spot, behind runaway leader Eastern Hill which is all but certain to finish top.

The Burras face Kilmore in the next round.

Elsewhere, Eastern Hill had a big win against Harkness.

Eastern Hill made 9-483 on day one of the match giving Harkness a big challenge.

Harkness lost early wickets and were in trouble.

The middle order showed some resistance but it wasn’t enough.

Harkness was bowled out 135.

Simarjeet Singh top scored with 26.

Georgies return to top flight competition

By Tara Murray

It was a day almost eight years in the making for Caroline Springs George Cross on Saturday.

The Georgies made their return to the National Premier League on Saturday after rising back through the ranks.

There was a big crowd at City Vista Recreation Reserve to see the Georgies face Bentleigh Greens, who had also been promoted after last season.

Georgies coach Eric Vassiliadis said their club and the supporter base had a lot to offer the NPL competition and it was a reward for all the work they’ve done to get back into the top flight.

“It was awesome,” he said. “It started for us almost eight years ago. It was surreal.

“We’ve still got a job to do but to see the community there it was wonderful.

“To have the community invested into the match day experience, we’re looking forward to many more days like that.”

On field, the match ended in a 0-0 draw.

Vassiliadis said they would only be better for the run and the experience under that

pressure.

“It was a game of two halves,” he said. “It was an arm wrestle and both sides were cagey in the first half.

“We edged them out in the first half but didn’t have that potent edge up forward.

“The second half was end-to-end and it could have gone either way. Both sides had to settle for a draw.”

Vassiliadis said it was disappointing not to walk away with the three points but they weren’t completely disappointed with the match.

“We will be stronger next week,” he said. “We’ll likely get a couple of boys black.

“Josh Whiteley will be back while Morgan Filer and Emmanuel Prifti will be a chance as well.

“The boys understand they have to win these games if we want to do something special.”

Vassiliadis said their squad was reasonably healthy to start the season and they had a deep squad with the amount of matches they have to play this year.

The Georgies will face Green Gully in round two on Friday night.

Eastern Hill batted again and finished with 6-158 in its second innings.

Mandeep Singh Aujla and Vamsi Krishna Budhavarapu Ayyavaru took two wickets each.

Harkness will face Sunbury Kangaroos in the next round.

In the women’s A-grade competition, Bacchus Marsh returned to the winners list against Lancefield.

The Tigers made 4-97 from their 20 overs, with the Bulls finishing 1-98 in reply. Sarah Bamford finished 51 not out for the Bulls.

In the B-grade competition, Melton Centrals lost to East Sunbury.

The Thunder made 3-84 with Centrals 7-67.

Lions fall short

Melton almost pulled off a win in a low scoring affair against Williamstown in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association east-west on the weekend.

The Lions travelled to Williamstown Recreation Reserve to take on the Seagulls with both sides searching for late season wins.

Melton won the toss and decided to bat.

The Lions struggled to get partnerships going early one with the loss of three early wickets.

While Ben MacRae was batting well those around him were struggling to stick with him. Skipper Chris Hope and MacRae managed to put on 40 before the wickets started to fall again.

The Cavaliers lost 2-1 to Heidelberg United on Friday night.

Vassiliadis said this match was massive for the club.

“It’s the biggest individual game in the last 15 years,” he said. “It’s our Maltese derby.

“It’s a massive game for us to celebrate and enjoy.

“Green Gully put out a super performance against Heidelberg so it will be a massive challenge.

“We are 10 minutes from each other and hopefully our supporters will come out and support us.

“We will go as hard as we can.”

Meanwhile, Springs Hills had a 0-0 draw with Keilor Park to start the NPLW’s season on Friday night.

After the first round of the Dockerty Cup-Australia Cup competition, Melton Phoenix is through to the next round after Fortuna 60 forfeited.

Westside Strikers beat Mount Eliza, 1-0, to win through to the next round as well, while Spring Hills was knocked out of Yarra Jets, 6-1.

While the tail tried hard, the Lions were bowled out for 141 in the 60th over. MacRae top scored with 62, with Archie Cairns next best with 20.

The Seagulls started well and at 2-106 were in a good position to come away with the win.

Melton kept fighting and took 6-7 to have the Seagulls at 8-113 and game one. The Seagulls kept their composure and were able to get the job done, finishing 8-143. Cairns took 4-42 for the Lions.

The Lions, who sit 11th, face Noble Park in two-dayer in the next round. Meanwhile in the Cricket Victoria Women’s Community Cricket Competition Shield 1 competition, Melton lost to La Trobe University Ironfeathers. Melton made 6-156 from its 37 overs with Liz Trakosas top scoring with 49 not out. The Ironfeathers made the runs with more than seven overs remaining, finishing 5-158. Amy Hibbert took 3-17 for the Lions.

Swayzee goes back-to-back

By Bronte Nieuwenburg

Leap To Fame’s older brother Swayzee upstaged him again in another epic Hunter Cup and denied him a $1 million bonus at Melton last night.

Just as he did last year, Swayzee used a better barrier draw to lead and fend-off Leap To Fame in a tight finish with NZ’s best pacer Republican Party a close third. It was the same trifecta as last year.

Despite being headed off by Leap To Fame on the home turn, Swayzee’s driver Cam Hart never lost faith.

“When Leap To Fame only got a head in front,Iknewmyguywouldkick-backlikehe always does,” he said. “Just when I thought I was holding Leap To Fame, I had to look back to the inside and fend off Republican Party.”

Despite racing in an era dominated by Leap To Fame, Swayzee has proven himself a champion stayer with two Hunter and two NZ Cup wins, along with a Victoria Cup and Blacks A Fake triumph.

“This sits right up with the best moments I’ve had,” Hart said. “Last year’s Hunter Cup was really special, but this was a stronger field again and had such a big build up.

“He’s just been such an amazing horse to me. Jase (Grimson, trainer) has done an incredible job with him.”

Grimson has nursed Swayzee back from a career-threatening bowel infection which sidelined him for much of the middle stages of last year.

“We wondered if he’d make it back for a while,” owner Mick Boots said. “I honestly

would’ve been happy with a top four finish tonight, but he just doesn’t like getting beaten, does he.”

Leap To Fame was racing for a new $1 million bonus after winning the Ballarat, Cranbourne and Ballarat Cups at his previous three starts.

There was early drama when reigning NZ and Victoria Cup winner Kingman was checked and galloped soon after the start.

“The horse went amazing to pick himself up again and still be there at the top of the straight. I was really proud of the horse and he came through it well,” Kingman’s trainer-driver Luke McCarthy said.

More drama followed the race when Republican Party’s part-owner Greg Ayres lodged a protest against the photo-finish result for second, which the judge gave to Leap To Fame by a nose.

“I disputed the photo because you could see a discrepancy, but the stewards stayed with the judge’s decision and I respect that,” Ayres said.

“Our horse ran a great race and we love coming to Australia so there are no hard feelings.”

Emma Stewart’s star stayer Miki To Success was he first locally-trained pacer home with a booming run for fourth.

Mission completed as Keayang Zaharar romps home

By Adam Hamilton

Therewasasmuchreliefasexcitementwhen Keayang Zahara romped home and banked a $500,000 bonus in the Group 1 Great Southern Star.

Co-trainer Paddy Lee conceded it had been a stressful road to banking the bonus and landing the most significant win of his family’s career so far.

“That was a long six weeks,” he sighed. “I’m glad it’s over and she got the job done.”

Keayang Zahara, who boasts 25 wins from 26 starts, set-up bonus tilt by winning three key lead-up races, the Maori Mile, along with the Ballarat and Cranbourne Trotters’ Cups.

Along with the $500,000 bonus, she banked another $153,900 for her heat and final wins last night.

“We’re glad we had the three wins and couldskipKilmoretogiveustwoweeksinto tonight,” Lee said.

Keayang Zahara cruised home in the first of the two Great Southern Star heats in a very cosy 1min58.2sec mile rate for 1720m, beating stablemate Jilliby Ballerini, who sat outside her.

Another of the Marg and Paddy Leetrained mares, Jilliby Dreamlover, led throughout to win the second heat.

Rivals were dealt a mortal blow in the final when Jilliby Dreamlover, Jilliby Ballerini and Keayang Zahara drew barriers one, two and three respectively.

As expected, Jilliby Balllerini crossed Jilliby Dreamlover at the start and then took a trail on Keayang Zahara.

That’s how they finished with Keayang Zahara winning by 8.7m over Jilliby Ballerini, with another 8.1m away to Jilliby Dreamlover.

“She’s just a freak this mare, next level,” driver Jason Lee said. “Any queries I had about backing up for two runs in a night weregoneassoonasIgotoutonthetrackto warm-up for the final.

“You dream of being in these big races let alone winning them. You see others win them and think how cool it would be to do it one day.

“I’mreallyhappyforMarg(Lee)andPaddy more than myself. They’ve been trying to win this race for five or six years now.”

Asked about the bonus, Jason Lee said: “Money isn’t everything, but we’ll have a decent party with that money.”

Now comes planning for the next few months with the stable of trotting stars.

“First thing is back here in two weeks where I’d say Keayang Zahara will run in the Grand Prix and there is a mares race for

(Ballerini),” Paddy Lee said.

“I don’t think we’ll take any of them to Menangle. It’s a really tough race on them the Hammerhead Mile (March 14).

“Cambridge is where we’ll take two. Zahara will be one and we’ll decide closer to it whetherBalleriniorDreamloveristheother one.”

TheCambridgefeatureisthe$NZ600,000 TAB Trot, won by Just Believe and Arcee Phoenix over the past two years.

“There are some other big races in NZ afterCambridge,butwe’llgetthroughCambridge and then make a call on if we stay over there longer,” Paddy Lee said.