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23 FEBRUARY, 2021

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Station move floated By Tara Murray Sunshine or Albion train stations could be relocated as part of construction of the Sunshine Super Hub. The Sunshine Super Hub and Albion station precinct is a landmark project that is set to reinvent Brimbank as a thriving economic centre, according to Brimbank council. The council is hoping the hub will help unlock the municipalities investment, development and employment potential. In preliminary designs for the hub, included in a document presented to last week’s council meeting, the council highlighted two possible scenarios for the future of Sunshine and Albion stations. The first scenario will result in both Sunshine and Albion stations being upgraded as dual ‘existing’ stations, with Albion station to move to the north.

‘‘

make sure these projects deliver lasting positive change - Ranka Rasic

’’

The second scenario involves moving Sunshine station to the north and into the new super hub. The document states, “relocating the station north provides a tremendous opportunity to deliver seamless connection, activation and enhancement of the Sunshine CBD”. Sunshine station was upgraded between 2012 and 2014 as part of the Regional Rail Link. Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic confirmed the council had undertaken preliminary design work on the super hub project. “These options are indicative and exploratory only and further work is needed on the state-led project to determine the best outcome for our community and the western region,” she said. “The Sunshine Super Hub and Albion station upgrades could create Sunshine and Brimbank as the economic powerhouse of Melbourne’s west.” The council has also commissioned art impressions to highlight the “enormous transformation potential” that could be delivered as part of the project. Cr Rasic said the council would discuss the preliminary options with the government. A copy of the document will be sent to the

Artist impressions of what the Sunshine Super Hub could look like. (Pictures: Brimbank council)

federal and state governments as part of the council’s 2021-22 budget wish lists. “Since the government announced the Sunshine Super Hub and Melbourne Airport Rail, Brimbank council has been advocating to

make sure these major projects deliver lasting positive change to our community,” Cr Rasic said. “Council will be discussing these preliminary options with the government to advance our

community’s vision to see these projects deliver more local jobs, safe and more attractive places, inclusive and integrated transport, to help create a green future and celebrate our cultural identity.”

Discover our Success

Congratulations Create The Future

Class of 2020 on Outstanding Results

OPEN HOUSE Monday 15th March 2021 Attendance at the Open House evening or school tours MUST be pre-booked at https://bit.ly/3axSCpL 12482314-LB09-21

$1.2m Gateway to Sunshine transforma�on complete The $1.2 million Gateway to Sunshine transformation project is now complete, with significant improvements to the Hampshire Road and Ballarat Road northern entrance to Sunshine and the rejuvenation of MB Lynch Memorial Gardens. The project was jointly funded by Brimbank City Council ($950,000) and the State Government’s Community Crime Prevention Program with $250,000 in funding support.

Some of the big improvements included feature lighting and planting at the Hampshire Road and Ballarat Road end, and the rejuvenation of the MB Lynch Memorial Gardens provides a welcoming, safe and vibrant garden and public space for the community.

The MB Lynch Memorial Gardens are located at the entrance to Sunshine’s Hampshire Road, with a remarkable history and significance that has not been forgotten in the recent upgrade.

The Gateway to Sunshine project was part of the Hampshire Road Master Plan (2014). The progressive implementation of this Master Plan has seen a transformation of Sunshine’s main street into a unique and vibrant destination, including the soon to be completed Hampshire Road Civic Green in the heart of Sunshine. Photo: Brimbank Mayor, Ranka Rasic, at the rejuvenated MB Lynch Memorial Gardens.

The gardens provide the community with opportunities to connect with Sunshine’s industrial past and heritage through its colours, materials and amenities.

WHAT’S ON any reasons why the name is not appropriate, including how it is considered to not comply with the Naming Rules. Visit yoursay.brimbank. Following an extensive vic.gov.au for more community engagement information. process in 2020, Brimbank The new state-of-the-art Council determined centre will feature a 50 the new name for the metre 10 lane swimming replacement facility of the pool, two massive water St Albans Leisure Centre slides, wellness centre, would be the Brimbank 24 hour gym, community Aquatic & Wellness Centre. program room and more. Under the state’s ‘Naming The vibrant rules for places in Victoria’, multigenerational health Council will now undertake and wellbeing facility will a process to seek and also offer preventative consider any community health, education and objections, prior to social services, all under lodging a naming proposal the one roof. The new with Geographic Names health and wellbeing hub Victoria for gazettal and is supported by a registration. $2 million grant from the A public consultation Victorian Government. period on the proposed official name for the new Stay safe, hub will be open for 45 stay informed days, from Monday 22 Thank you to everyone February till Wednesday who is helping stop the 7 April. Anyone now spread of COVID-19 lodging an objection in our community. For to the proposed name up-to-date information of’ Brimbank Aquatic & about COVID-19 Wellness Centre’ must restrictions visit address their interest in coronavirus.vic.gov.au the naming proposal and

Brimbank Aquatic & Wellness Centre

Share your ideas and feedback on issues and projects that matter to you. Learn more about projects that are open for comment including:

Clean Up Australia Day is back Register your event at cleanupaustraliaday.org.au how to run a successful and COVID safe event, including assistance with promotion and facilitating rubbish removal. Join Australia’s largest Online registrations are annual community free and now open at environmental event on cleanupaustraliaday. Sunday 7 March 2021. org.au Clean Up Australia Day is For more information supported by Brimbank on the event please call City Council, and provides 9249 4000 or email an opportunity for environment@brimbank. volunteers to connect with vic.gov.au each other while cleaning up their neighbourhood by This event is subject to COVID-19 restrictions. collecting and removing Please confirm with rubbish. Council closer to the date To keep the event COVID as changing COVID-19 safe, a maximum of 10 restrictions may impact the volunteers per group can event. work within a particular area at one time. All information in this week’s edition of Brimbank Buzz was Register your own event correct at the time of printing. at a local site that needs some cleaning up or join an For the latest information about the impacts of COVID-19 event today. on Council’s services visit Once registered, Council brimbank.vic.gov.au will provide support on

Clean Up Australia Day is back

Your Councillors

Cr Victoria Borg

Cr Sarah Branton

Cr Thuy Dang

• 2021 Communications and Engagement Survey - Council is seeking community feedback on our communication and engagement activities. We want to better understand the news and information you want from Council, and how you’d like to receive it. Visit yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au to learn more • Brimbank Writers and Readers Festival – Expressions of Interest open Monday 15 February and close Sunday 28 February. For more information visit brimbanklibraries.vic.gov.au/writersfestival • Melbourne Airport Rail – The route of the new link was confirmed late last year after Council advocated heavily for Brimbank residents. Brimbank residents are being encouraged to share their views. Visit airportrail.vic.gov.au to learn more.

Next Council meeting: Tuesday 16 March 2021 Brimbank Community and Civic Centre Level 1, Council Chamber 301 Hampshire Road, Sunshine Due to the current COVID-19 emergency, the council meeting will be closed to the public. The council meeting will be publicly broadcast via live stream and the recording published on Council’s website brimbank.vic.gov.au after the meeting. Call 9249 4000 for more information.

9249 4000

brimbank.vic.gov.au

Visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/council to find your ward Councillors and their contact details.

Cr Sam David JP

Cr Maria Kerr

Cr Bruce Lancashire

Cr Trung Luu

Cr Jasmine Nguyen Deputy Mayor

Cr Jae Papalia

Cr Ranka Rasic

Cr Virginia Tachos

Mayor

Devonshire Road safety improvements Please look out for and follow detour signs. Access to shops, businesses and residences will be maintained throughout construction. Works are scheduled for completion by mid-April 2021. 2 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

George Street traffic lights

New Pedestrian crossing

Bicycle lanes

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Safety improvements are underway along Devonshire Road (between Hampshire Road and George Street) as part of works to improve Sunshine Town Centre.

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NEWS

MP questions vaccine priority By Tara Murray Brimbank’s aged care residents will have to wait at least one more week before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, after all of the municipality’s aged care homes were left out of the week one vaccination schedule. The federal government last week announced that aged care residents in 190 towns and suburbs across the country would begin receiving the Pfizer vaccine as of yesterday. Health professionals will visit aged care

facilities to vaccinate some of the community’s most vulnerable people first. Some locations earmarked for aged care vaccinations during the first week have no recorded cases of the virus. Brimbank had the second highest number of COVID-19 infections in Victoria, according to Victoria Department of Health data. Gorton MP Brendan O’Connor said he was disappointed that his electorate was not included in the initial roll-out. “The Morrison government needs to answer why my electorate of Gorton, which had some

aged care homes would receive the vaccine first was a “complex logistic exercise”. “We do not have community transmission, so there is no burning platform. It’s perfectly safe to take four or five weeks to vaccinate all of the aged care residents,” he said. Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt said vaccinations would be done in “clusters defined geographically to make sure that we have the most effective distribution and that also preserves sanctity of the Pfizer process”. Mr Hunt said a vaccination hub would be set up at Sunshine Hospital.

of the highest coronavirus infections numbers in the country, has been forgotten when it comes to the first locations of the vaccine roll-out,” he said. Mr O’Connor raised concerns about the vaccine’s rollout in federal Parliament last week. “The residents of Melton and Brimbank need to be assured they’ll have access to the vaccine. We know that Scott Morrison is always about the announcement, not about the delivery.” Federal health department secretary Brendan Murphy last week said deciding which

Recyclers on notice

Helen Zagolin’s efforts to keep her centre’s families safe throughout COVID-19 has been recognised. (Damjan Janevski) 228768_02

Focus on pandemic safety rewarded Helen Zagolin is still pinching herself after taking out an education safety award. Ms Zagolin, the manager at St Albans Main Road East Early Learning Centre, was among other educators who tuned into the G8 Education awards virtual online presentation. She said she was pleasantly surprised when she was announced as the winner of the National Stand Out Educator Award for Safety, selected from more than 10,000 educators. Ms Zagolin won the award for her efforts through the COVID-19 pandemic and a blemish-free safety and compliance record over

the past two years. “I’m surprised, I didn’t think it would be me,” she said. “I won the region award in September, so I didn’t think I would win this one as well. “When I heard my name I was over the moon. I’m really proud and honoured to win it.” Ms Zagolin said she does her best to ensure the wellbeing and health and safety for herself, her team, the educators, the children and anyone else who comes into the centre. G8 chief executive Gary Carroll said Ms Zagolin had gone well beyond the job description to ensure the children in her care

and their extended families were safe, informed and assured during the worst of the pandemic. “COVID-19 infections were soaring in the St Albans area and Helen was meticulous in implementing policies and practices that kept her children and team members safe,” Mr Carroll said. “Helen displayed exceptional leadership qualities but it was her unwavering determination to protect the wider family of children, families, educators and community that spoke loudest.”

Three recycling businesses in Melbourne’s west have been issued notices by the Environment Protection Authority to cease accepting more material to reduce fire risk. Manhari Metals was issued notices for its Tottenham and Horsham sites, while notices were also issued to Action Recovery and Recycling for its Brooklyn site and ReSource Pty Ltd for its Sunshine site. Manhari Metals’ Tottenham site caught fire in April, 2019, after previous warnings by authorities over its stockpiling of waste at other sites. On Friday, the EPA said the notices for Manhari Metals and Action Recovery Recycling stemmed from the alleged failure of these businesses to meet regulatory requirements. It said issues identified during EPA inspections mostly involved non-compliance with required size limits and minimum separation distances around stockpiles of scrap metal and combustible recyclable and waste materials. EPA waste crime prevention director Rachel Gualano said officers felt reasonable steps had not been taken to manage and store combustible recyclable and waste materials at the facilities. Manhari Metals has since made its Tottenham site compliant. ReSource Pty Ltd, an E-waste battery and cable recycler, was ordered to stop accepting waste following a fire at its Third Avenue site on Thursday. The EPA said the recycler had not taken reasonable steps in managing its waste stockpile in a way that reduced the fire risk to the community. Goya Dmytryshchak and Benjamin Millar

Tara Murray

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3 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU Briefs

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Grassfire Triple-0 received multiple calls reporting a grass fire threatening fences in Taylors Lakes just before midnight on Friday. Crews arrived at Chalmers Place to find a grass fire spreading in a western direction, away from nearby homes. The bulk of the fire was extinguished within 30 minutes but crews spent several hours at the scene.

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Hoon blitz

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Brimbank and Melton police were out in force last Thursday as part of an operation targeting hoon behaviour. Three vehicles were impounded and 53 drivers detected committing a total of 74 offences. Twelve people were either unlicensed or disqualified, three tested positive for drug driving and 12 vehicles were unregistered.

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Gabrielle Williams. (Supplied)

GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES westeditorial@starweekly.com.au COMMUNITY CALENDAR ENTRIES communitycalendar@starweekly.com.au

Published by MMP Star Pty Ltd ACN 168 220 399 Head Office Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas All material is copyright to MMP Star Pty Ltd. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Paul Thomas. All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit starweekly.com.au

Improving cycling links Cyclists and pedestrians will have a smoother journey with a new shared user path to be built next to the M80 Ring Road. The 1.1-kilometre path will run from the EJ Whitten Bridge to Dodds Road in Keilor East and replace the existing path. The $1.9 million project will also include removing the old path and the clean-up of a sediment pond nearby to improve the amenity of the area. Construction of the path will start in March and will be finished by the middle of the year. The Department of Transport, Major Transport Infrastructure Authority, Parks Victoria and Brimbank Park are working

Get involved – Apply for a Brimbank Community Recovery Grant – Stage 2

together on the project. The new path will add to the nearby Maribyrnong River Trail and Western Ring Bike Trial, giving people in the area another option to cycle or walk through the natural parkland and green space. Roads and Road Safety Minister and Niddrie MP Ben Carroll said the path would give locals more options to get out and about. “We’re giving everyone in Keilor East, Sunshine North, Kealba and the surrounding areas more options to get fit and active.”

Teens charged A man called in police after spotting his stolen car being driven in Tarneit on Thursday night. Police air wing monitored the vehicle and guided police on the ground to its whereabouts. Stop sticks caused one of the vehicle’s tyres to blow out along Mt Derrimut Road and five male youths were arrested in the area a short time later. Five teenagers ranging in age from 13 to 16, were each charged with a range of offences. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Tara Murray

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Applications close 21 March 2021 The Stage 2 Brimbank Community Recovery Grants program provides assistance with innovative local recovery solutions needed to respond to the challenges of COVID-19 and strengthen community resilience. There are two categories 1. Brimbank Partner Organisations – up to $15,000 per grant. This is for eligible not-for-profit organisations providing services or programs in Brimbank.

2. Eligible community groups and organisations – up to $8,000 per grant.

School Cleaning Contractor Expressions of interest are invited from cleaning contractors to clean Gisborne Secondary College. Cleaners are required to attend a site inspection to be conducted at 4pm on Tuesday 2nd March, 2021. Contract documents will be emailed at that time of registration.

This is the second round of the Community Recovery Grants program. Community groups and organisations are strongly encouraged to apply. Information on grant eligibility, what can be funded and how to apply is available. If you were unsuccessful in round one, you are encouraged to contact Council prior to resubmitting your application.

Register attendance on gisborne.sc@education.vic.gov.au attention Michelle Croxford, Business Manager. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. All successful applicants must have Department approved cleaning panel status prior to commencing their contract at any Victorian government school.

Grants of up to $600 are available for eligible seniors groups. As part of this grant round Brimbank Council is also offering the Brimbank Seniors Operational Grants - offering financial support for senior groups in Brimbank towards their day-to-day operating costs. Information sessions and training are available to help you.

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For more information on how to apply visit www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/grants or call 9249 4036 or email communitygrants@brimbank.vic.gov.au

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How to Apply

4 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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Push to save open space By Tara Murray Community concerns are yet to be addressed in the planning for the Fitzgerald Road level crossing removal, according to Brimbank council. The state government announced in January that work on removal of level crossings at Fitzgerald Road, Ardeer and Robinsons Road, Deer Park had been brought forward to this year. At last week’s council meeting, councillors resolved to write to Transport Minister Jacinta

Allan and the Level Crossing Removal Project team over a number of concerns they have about the Fitzgerald Road crossing removal. The council had previously written to both in September, raising concerns about loss of open space and biodiversity, traffic noise impacts, air pollution and active transport. The council said it did not receive replies to its letters until work on the project had started. Councillors felt that concerns raised in the letters hadn’t been considered. Last week, Cr Virginia Tachos said the council had not had a say on the project.

“The concerns that the community has are quite valid and if we can negotiate for something better and also have this project undertaken … I think that’s a win-win for our community,” Cr Tachos said. Councillors passed a motion calling for land at 274 Forrest Street, Ardeer to be retained for public space. The Level Crossing Removal Project plans to use the land as a road reserve. Ardeer Green Activity Hub was set to be built on the land, but with the site impacted by the development, it is no longer possible. Cr Sam David said the council can’t stop

the state government from taking the land, so it was up to them to get the best possible deal for the community, including having the state government maintain the area. Cr Sarah Branton said a lot of councillors were disappointed to be losing the open green space and called for the project to include some rehabilitation of green space. The council also wants a commitment that a shared user path will extend from Forrest Street to Station Road, along Tilburn Road, and the provision of a shared path from Robinsons to Station roads via Bon Thomas Reserve.

Tin Shed’s back The doors are back open at Tin Shed. The shed, also known as the St Albans Community Youth Club, reopened on Monday after being forced to close last year due to COVID-19 and its manager moving on. New centre manager James Dredge was happy to open a week later than originally planned after a false start due to last week’s five-day snap lockdown. “I think it’s been closed since about September last year when the manager resigned,” Mr Dredge said. “Because we were in the middle of lockdown, the decision was made to leave it until the appointment of a new manager and it took a while. “I’m getting people from all over the place, really keen to have it reopen. It has a real place in the St Albans community.” Mr Dredge, who previously worked in St Albans, said he jumped at the chance to get back into the local community.

While he has plenty of ideas about what he would like to do at the centre, the first focus is getting the centre, which has been running for nearly 50 years, back up and running. “I’ve only just started and I want to see what they want,” he said. “More than anything, I want to get it open and look to have conversations with the people of St Albans about what they would like to see here. “There is a history of physical activities for young people and I would like them to remain. There will be plenty of new initiatives along the way.” The centre will have an official reopening down the track when everything is back up and running. Until then, Mr Dredge has one message. “Anyone who wants to come in and say hello, come in and do so.” Tara Murray

James Dredge is the new manager of the Tin Shed in St Albans. (Damjan Janevski) 228690_01

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5 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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Scrubbing up nicely By Tara Murray A Western Health nurse and her sister have become fashion designers, launching their own company, ScrubLab. Van Nguyen, who works at Sunshine Hospital, said she came up with the idea after paying a lot of money to get good quality medical scrubs from overseas. She decided that there had to be a better option for local healthcare workers. “The idea came when I graduated and became a registered nurse. I realised we didn’t have access to premium quality scrubs in Australia,” Van said. “I wanted access to better scrubs in Australia, however I wasn’t particularly good with design. I approached my sister Linh, who has a natural flair for fashion, and asked her at the time to design some scrubs.” Van said it had been difficult juggling her job and starting a side business, especially during a pandemic. She said it had involved a lot of late nights and working around her shifts, but it had all been worth it, with her colleagues loving the scrubs. “It’s like we reinvented the wheel. They asked me where I got them from and immediately wanted to place orders,” she said. “Now the majority of nurses at my workplace don a pair of our scrubs. It’s been a very humbling experience. “We have had customers emailing us to thank us for these wonder scrubs, and that they cannot wait for more colours and styles. “We definitely have seen a big increase in sales – about 300 per cent increase.” Van said they would love to expand the business internationally, with a focus in New Zealand and Asia.

Four teens charged Four people have been charged over an alleged aggravated home invasion in Kurunjang late last year. Gang Crime Squad detectives, Melbourne Embona Taskforce and Brimbank Crime Investigation Unit executed a series of warrants in Deer Park, St Albans, Keilor Downs and Fitzroy about 5am last Tuesday. An 18-year-old Fitzroy man and a 17-year-old Keilor Downs youth, who police allege are members of the BDK street gang, were both arrested. On Thursday, police executed a warrant on a Sunbury property, arresting an 18-year-old Deer Park man and 17-year-old Fraser Rise boy. The arrests form part of the investigation into an alleged home invasion in Kurunjang on December 9. Police alleged a group of males broke into the property on Highfield Way about 2.50am, armed with a range of weapons. All four people have been charged with three counts of false imprisonment, and three counts of making threats to kill, as well as intentionally causing injury and theft of motor vehicle. Investigation into the incident is ongoing. Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au Benjamin Millar

The scrubs designed by sisters Linh and Van Nguyen, inset. (Pictures: Supplied)

Things to do

TODAY

kidswest 12483328-DL08-21

6 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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Call for COVID package Brimbank council is calling for the state and federal governments to fund a dedicated Brimbank COVID-19 response and recovery package in the upcoming budgets. The recovery package forms a key part of the council’s wish list for projects to attract government funding. At its most recent council meeting, the council stated the package should invest in local shovel-ready projects, programs and initiatives that can assist the community to recover and rebuild from the health, wellbeing and economic consequences of a prolonged COVID-19 pandemic. In letters to both state treasurer Tim Pallas and federal treasurer Josh Frydenberg mayor Ranka Rasic said any package would help provide the community with further support. “Brimbank was, and continues to remain, highly vulnerable to a prolonged and evolving COVID-19 pandemic,” the letter states. “Many pre-existing socio-economic issues sadly already provided fertile ground for the virus to spread during the height of the pandemic; resulting in some of the country’s most severe and intense case numbers and clusters throughout local aged care, meat works, workplaces, suburbs, postcodes and neighbourhoods. “Despite our collective best efforts in now having contained and mitigated the spread of the virus, significant opportunity exists … to provide our community with further support as we work towards a pathway of recovery.” The letters include the council’s 19 Point Plan for COVID Response and Recovery for re-consideration as part of the 2021-22 budget process. The council has received more than $97 million over the past 12 months in

(Supplied)

By Tara Murray

New role for Papafotiou

Brimbank council is lobbying for funding to aid with the city’s pandemic recovery. (Supplied)

response to local priorities outlined in the 19 point plan but is seeking further support. Council sees the Melbourne Airport Rail (MAR) project and the St Albans Health and Wellbeing Hub as key opportunities for government support. The plan also includes the establishment of a joint government-council COVID-19 Brimbank taskforce, a Brimbank COVID-19 health, wellbeing and economic package, rapid response teams, the Sunshine Priority Precinct including the Super Hub,

extension of the JobKeeper and JobSeeker payments and an integrated transport strategy for Melbourne’s west. “Just like other communities who have received dedicated support packages in response to severe economic and social shocks, such as Geelong through the closure of Ford and the Latrobe Valley though the closure of Hazelwood respectively, our community and region now needs unprecedented stimulus and support,” Cr Rasic said.

Former Brimbank mayor Georgina Papafotiou has been named the first female president of the Greek Orthodox Community of St Albans. Ms Papafotiou was elected to the role at the community’s annual general meeting earlier this month. She said it was a great honour to be the first female president of any Greek community in Brimbank, and just the second female president of any Greek community in Victoria. “It’s one of the many roles that I have been interested in,” she said. “It’s about being able to provide support and make a positive difference in a NESB [non-English speaking background] community. “My priority is to unite and be inclusive of all Greeks across Brimbank.” Ms Papafotiou follows in the footsteps of her father, who was president of the same community for several years in the 1990s. She said one of her aims was to encourage the next generation to get involved in the community.

BECAUSE OF OUR EFFORTS EASED RESTRICTIONS ARE NOW IN PLACE You can leave home for any reason, and the following changes are in place:

Visitors to your home limited to 5 people a day.

Outdoor gatherings are limited to 20 people.

Fitted face masks required indoors, and outdoors where you can’t keep 1.5m apart.

There are limits on visiting hospital and care facilities.

Keep your hands and surfaces clean.

Any symptoms? Get tested and stay home.

For more information go to CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, Melbourne

7 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

On Sale Wednesday 24th February until Tuesday 2nd March 2021

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To Make: 1. Place peas in a bowl, with a fork mash until

Basil, Pea & Zucchini Fritters with Yogurt

coarsely crushed. Add the zucchini, garlic, basil, egg, ﬂour, ½ cup of yogurt (reserve remaining to serve) and stir to combine.

You’ll Need...

Melton Sunbury Gisborne Delahey Glengala

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1 cup (120 g) frozen peas, cooked 1 small zucchini, coarsely grated 1 tbsp Gourmet Garden Cold Blended Garlic Paste 2 tbsp Gourmet Garden Lightly Dried Basil 1 egg, lightly beaten ½ cup (75g) self-raising flour 1 cup Chobani Plain Yogurt 1 tbsp (40 mL) vegetable oil

2. Heat oil in a medium frying pan over medium heat. Spoon 2 tbsp portions of mixture in the pan. Cook for 2 mins or until lightly golden. Flip and cook for a further 1-2 mins or until cooked through. and repeat g Transfer to plate p p with remaining g mixture. Serve warm with a dollop of reserved rved yogurt..

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9 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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Trail upgrades disappoint By Tara Murray Residents have been left underwhelmed by upgrades to the Upper Stony Creek Trail in Sunshine North. While construction is still taking place, the trail was opened last year ahead of the Christmas break. Resident Jamie Ramsay is among those who have been left disappointed by the upgrades. “It’s not usable in its current form on hot days,” he said. “There is no shade, no taps and no toilets. If you’ve got kids you can’t spend a lot of time down there.” Mr Ramsay, who raised the issue during question time at last week’s council meeting, said residents felt like they had been failed by the project. He said project funding does not allow for planting in the northern channel or the extension of the path from behind Camperdown Avenue to Furlong Road. “It’s not what we were promised,” he said. “Everyone seems to be pointing the finger at someone else to complete the project. “Brimbank is one of the least green areas in Victoria. It’s important for the community to have greenery.” Among the works completed are a new wetland with a gravel circuit path, the planting of 9000 plants around the wetland, a circuit path connecting to Gilmour Road, Cary Street and Camperdown Avenue, and a gravel path along the western side of the concrete channel from Gilmour Road to Furlong Road. The project, which is a collaboration between

seven groups, has been plagued by delays and issues since it was announced in 2016. In July 2018, significant deposits of asbestos were found at the site, resulting in remediation works. Works were suspended in July 2019. It was then announced that the project wouldn’t be completed as planned amid funding concerns.

‘‘

It’s not what we were promised - Jamie Ramsay

’’

Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic last week said that the project has provided residents with a well-designed, usable green open space and natural environment. “The project has created a vibrant space, with walking paths and wetlands that the community can enjoy for decades,” she said. “The Upper Stony Creek Project continues to remain an advocacy priority for council. Council will continue to identify opportunities for further funding. We’ll also continue advocating and raising the need for the project to be completed to the original intended scope.” Melbourne Water’s water services planning manager Lauren Mittiga said they were pleased with the project’s progress. “Construction is still taking place, including on the new stormwater harvesting system, as well as minor maintenance work. However the wetlands are now finished, giving Sunshine North a new community open space and walkway to enjoy.”

Chloe (top left) was able to interview tennis star Donna Vekic (bottom right). (Supplied)

Youngster aces Zoom Chloe Singh got the opportunity of a lifetime when she interviewed world number 33 tennis player Donna Vekic via Zoom. Chloe was set to toss the coin before a match at the Australian Open, but when that was cancelled due to COVID-19, she and 11 other young tennis stars got the opportunity to interview their tennis heroes online. Seven-year-old Chloe said she was excited to speak to Vekic. The Sydenham Tennis Club player said her

favourite part was getting to ask her questions, including whether Vekic would have dinner with her. While Vekic said yes, Chloe was unsure if that would go ahead. Chloe, who has grown up playing tennis, said playing rallies were her favourite part of the game. Deer Park Tennis Club’s Musemma Cilek was one of six young stars to interview world number three Naomi Osaka.

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Calder Park safety fears By Tara Murray Calder Park Raceway could be a “ticking time bomb” if nothing is done to improve the safety of the site. Brimbank councillors raised concerns about the track and the overall site at last week’s council meeting, following concerns from residents. Mayor Ranka Rasic said residents are concerned about the condition of the site and what appears to be a lack of maintenance. “The community near the Calder Park site has raised their concerns with me about the condition of the site,” she said. “This includes not only the racetrack component but also the open paddocks. Residents are concerned about the apparent deterioration of the racetrack, buildings and the safety of the racetrack site.” The track has been mostly unused in recent years following a family dispute by former owner Bob Jane and his son Rodney Jane in the early 2010s. In December last year, tumble weed from the site invaded nearby properties, while a fire in January this year damaged fences of nearby houses. Cr Rasic said residents had been calling for action for years. Fellow Taylors ward councillors Maria Kerr and Bruce Lancashire also raised concerns. Cr Lancashire said it was quite a serious issue. “It may be a ticking time bomb for us with what may happen,” he said. “We were all shocked by the fires that went through there and the lack of fire breaks.” Cr Kerr said Calder Park had the ability to become something amazing for the community and that the council had to look at ways of improving the area.

Council has raised concerns about Calder Park and surrounding land. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 228695

The council will write to Calder Park Raceways Pty Ltd, as owners of the Calder Park site, outlining concerns about the general condition of the raceway grounds and surrounding land and requesting site and fire management plan. They are also seeking a meeting with owners

to discuss the site, the recent serrated tussock seed (tumbleweed) event and grassfires. They will also write to the Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio, the Environment Protection Authority, Agriculture Minister Mary Anne Thomas and Fire Rescue Victoria.

NEWS

Building bridges Brimbank council is seeking Moonee Valley council’s co-operation to progress work on the River Valley bridge As reported by Star Weekly, neither council is willing to take ownership of the bridge once it’s built, which is delaying construction and leaving residents frustrated. Cr Trung Luu raised a notice of motion at last week’s Brimbank council meeting, asking the council to follow up its previous request to the state government to help solve the issue. The motion also called on the council to seek Moonee Valley council’s co-operation in advocating to Parks Victoria to come to an agreement on ownership for the bridge. Cr Luu said he wanted to see development of the bridge without any further delay. “Without actual ownership of the bridge, the planning application and the bridge development can not proceed,” he said. “The bridge promotes connectivity, health and encourages residents to walk and cycle as an alternative mode of transport. This motion is to address current issues and community concern.” Cr Virigina Tachos suggested an additional point to the motion, that the council look at getting costings for how much it would cost to maintain the bridge. The amended motion was passed unanimously. Tara Murray

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Council defers landfill decision By Tara Murray Brimbank council has just over a month to decide where its waste will go after deferring a decision about the future of its landfill service last week. The council was set to award new landfill service contracts at last Tuesday’s council meeting, but instead voted to defer the item to a future meeting. The current deal between the council and Cleanaway expires on March 31, with no option to extend it.

There is just one council meeting before the end of March – March 16. Council officers recommended the council award contracts to Cleanaway on a four year guaranteed basis and to Hanson Landfill Services on a non-guaranteed basis for four years. There are two extension options of two years each, subject to negotiation and satisfactory performance over the initial period. Cr Bruce Lancashire offered up an alternative motion, with two different options. In option one, the four-year contract with

Cleanway would be guaranteed for 12 months initially and reviewed annually. No changes were proposed for the Hanson Landfill Services contract. Option two would result in four-year, non-guaranteed contracts for both Cleanway and Hanson Landfill Services. Cr Lancashire then raised the motion to defer the item, which passed unanimously. Mayor Ranka Rasic said the council was working to award a new contract as quickly as possible before the expiry of the current contract.

“Landfill services (including the state government landfill levy) cost Brimbank residents $5.5 million per year and we want to make sure we deliver the best value for money. “We will continue exploring all viable options that will both service our residents, whilst minimising the landfill effects on our environment. “For far too long our area has been a dumping ground for waste and it’s time council carefully consider all options, both now and in the future, with our community and environment in mind.”

Camille’s driven to help Joan Camille Caranto’s passion for helping others has been recognised, with the 18-year-old awarded the first Bronwen Merrigan Scholarship. Duke Street Community House launched the scholarship in honour of former house manager Bronwen Merrigan. Ms Merrigan was house manager for 20 years and was recognised as Brimbank citizen of the year in 2009. She died of cancer in 2019. Current house manager Lana Bedford said Ms Caranto impressed the panel with her resilience to overcome difficult personal circumstances, her academic achievements, her sports leadership and her significant volunteer contributions to the Brimbank community. The Bronwen Merrigan Scholarship comprises a $3000 grant and mentoring program to give young women assistance to pay for things such as course fees, computers

and tools and equipment. Ms Caranto, who goes by Camille, said she was honoured to receive the scholarship. “I am genuinely grateful to be the inaugural winner of the Bronwen Merrigan Scholarship,” she said. “Words cannot express how thankful I am for this opportunity. I hope I am worthy to represent the works and advocacy of Bronwen Merrigan in honour of her in the community.” Ms Caranto is about to start studying nursing and said she applied for the scholarship to help with the cost of her education. Among Ms Caranto’s goals is to join a medical mission in a Third World country. “I believe that my experience will develop me as a caring and humble person. This will also broaden my view of the world and those around me,” she said. Tara Murray

Joan Camille Caranto. (Supplied)

Victoria University Secondary College

Congratulations Class of 2020

Outstanding Results College DUX Jimmy Truong - ATAR 97.30

JOIN MELTON CITY COUNCIL’S RECONCILIATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE

DUX Runner-Up Huy Quoc Ly - ATAR 97.25

Council is seeking expressions of interest from the community, especially Aboriginal and/or Torres Stait Islander members, to join our Reconciliation Advisory Committee for 2021.

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OPEN HOUSE - Monday 15th March 2021 Morning Campus Tours Tour 1: 9:20 am Tour 2: 10:30 am

The voluntary committee meets once every three months and provides advice on the implementation of Council’s Reconcilation Policy and Reconciliation Action Plans.

6:00pm Welcome and Information 6:15pm Presentation by College Principal 6:30pm Interactive Tours

Additional Tours available by appointment, contact the office 9363 1155

Expressions of interest close on Sunday 28 February. For further information: To download an Expression of Interest form, visit melton.vic.gov.au/rac or contact Council’s Aboriginal Community Engagement Officer on 9747 5740 or annettev@melton.vic.gov.au

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Call for EPA investigation By Tara Murray Brimbank council is calling on the Environment Protection Authority to launch an investigation and audit of all EPA-licensed facilities in the municipality. The council wants the EPA to look at the compliance of companies with EPA conditions of operation and operating standards, with a particular focus on odour, unpleasant emissions and noise. It also wants the community to be informed of the results of the investigation via a community forum.

Cr Virginia Tachos raised a motion at last week’s council meeting, stating ongoing odour and noise issues from local businesses were a daily occurrence for residents. She said it was time the EPA took a robust look at all the licensed sites in the city. “There is often one name that keeps appearing in advice I receive about the issue … the site is operating under an EPA licence,” she said. “Over a number of weeks and months now, community members have raised the issue of noise and smell impacting their lives across

Brimbank. Whether it is the unbearable odour from the ongoing fire at the Kealba landfill, putrid smell associated with the processing of animals and animal products in Brooklyn, odour from putrescible waste being processed, or noise from the industry. “How is it that EPA-licensed sites can continue to have such an ongoing detrimental impact on the daily lives of our residents?” Cr Tachos questioned how the EPA can be failing to protect the community after repeated calls to action. She said it was time for the EPA to rebuild confidence in the community by.

“I call on the EPA to engage in a meaningful way with our community, to hear their concerns, to understand the impacts and to act on those concerns as they are charged to do.” Deputy mayor Jasmine Nguyen said while she hadn’t been on council for very long, she’s quickly released how big this issue is. “I’ve been contacted by so many people who are concerned about the odour issues. “It’s a call for real action.” The council will also write to Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay councils seeking their support.

Babies sought for trial Babies are being sought for a study to assess the effectiveness of osteopathic care in reducing crying in colicky infants. Williamstown osteopath Julie Hjorth is among a handful of practitioners from across Australia, the UK and Switzerland chosen for the Crying Unsettled disTressed Infants Effectiveness Study – the CUTIES trial. The study is being run by the University College of Osteopathy in London in conjunction with Southern Cross University. Ms Hjorth has been a qualified osteopath for 10 years and a clinical supervisor and sessional lecturer in the School of Health and Biomedical Sciences at RMIT University since 2016. She said the study was a ‘superiority trial’ to see if standard osteopathic treatment showed a more significant reduction in crying time of colicky babies than light touch. Now, she is seeking to recruit babies from across Victoria.

“We need infants that are between one and 10 weeks old when the study starts,” she said. “The main criteria is they need to be unsettleable, like crying and unsettled, for at least three hours a day for at least three days in the one week. “We will have them in for up to four consults over a two-week period. “In the meantime, the parents will be taking a ‘crying diary’ … which will [record] how many minutes the infant’s crying each day.” The parent will not know until after the two weeks if their infant received targeted tension release (standard osteopathic care) or generic tension release (light touch). The study is free. Details: Julie Hjorth, https://fergusonstosteo. com/ and 0415 412 500. Goya Dmytryshchak

Osteopath Julie Hjorth with 10-week-old baby Jack. (Damjan Janevski) 228808_01

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MY PLACE Hillside doctor Victor Lin may come from a scientific and medical background, but the arts and community are equally dear to his heart. He speaks with Benjamin Millar What is your connection with Hillside? I grew up in the northwestern suburbs, living in St Albans for a time before moving to Hillside in 1999. I attended a local primary school, and while I went on to study at a high school in South Yarra and later at the University of Melbourne for my biomedical and medical degrees, I continued to live in Hillside throughout my years as a student. What do you love most about the area? What I love most about the area is its sense of community. While the area looks very different now compared to when we first moved in, the one constant feature has been the geniality of the people who live in the area. We’ve gotten to know some very good people over the years and it continues to be the people who make the suburb such a privilege to live in.

(Damjan Janevski) 227663_01

What are your favourite local places? I am a closet foodie and enjoy going to new places to eat. Two local restaurants that I am a big fan of are La Porchetta at Watergardens Shopping Centre and Quang Vinh in St Albans. What can you tell us about your work in health? I currently work as a junior doctor at the Royal Melbourne Hospital and blood cancer researcher at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research. I am passionate about breaking down barriers for people in the community to lead healthy and productive lives and over the years have spearheaded

a number of initiatives aiming to improve health literacy among young Australians and reduce deep-seated inequities that exist in the community with respect to key social determinants of health.

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What can you tell us about your charity work? I am co-founder of three not-for-profit organisations, including the Australian Cancer and Health Sciences Consortium (ACHSC), which aims to empower young Australians to

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make a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer; the Australian Students’ Society of Haematology (ASSH), the first professional society in the country for students interested in blood disorders; and Teaching for Impact (TFI), an initiative galvanising students and working professionals from diverse backgrounds to make tangible contributions towards the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through education. I am also Board Member of several other not-for-profit organisations, including Eternal Possibilities and the Student Science Squad; served leadership positions within the Melbourne University Health Initiative (MUHI); and provided pro bono consulting to several other charities, including Strive Student Health Initiative and Crepes for Change. For this and other work, I was privileged to have been a Finalist in the Saward Dawson Community Service and Social Impact Award as part of last year’s Victorian Young Achiever Award program and was humbled to be nominated again this year. What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you? While I come from a scientific and medical background, I harbour an enduring affinity for the arts. I love classical music and still play the piano recreationally. I am also a big fan of the work of many of the classic novelists, playwrights and poets. The arts provides a foray into aspects of humanity that are often overlooked in science and medicine and has to a large degree helped me build a more nuanced understanding of myself and a broader perspective on what truly matters in life.

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NOW

FIRST EDITION 2021

Get involved in the Brimbank COVID-19 recovery - Apply for a Brimbank Stage 2 Community Recovery Grant Council is offering one off Community Recovery Grants to support new or the expansion of existing innovative community-led and community based initiatives. This will support the community’s COVID-19 recovery and strengthen community resilience. There is evidence within our Brimbank community of deterioration in mental, social and physical health, as well as economic hardship and financial stress. Brimbank Council is offering Stage 2 Community Recovery Grants to continue assisting with innovative local recovery solutions needed to respond to these unique challenges and strengthen community resilience. This grant is in addition to the Stage 1 round of the Community Recovery Grants which closed on 4 October 2020. The Stage 2 Community Recovery Grants will consist of two categories. 1. Brimbank Partner Organisations – eligible not-for-profit organisations delivering services or programs in Brimbank. Applicants in this category can apply for a grant up to $15,000.

Eligible not–for–profit organisations, community groups and organisations are invited to submit a grant application. If your application was unsuccessful during the Stage 1 round, you are invited to resubmit a revised application in this round. To improve your application, please contact the Grants Officer to obtain feedback on your Stage 1 grant application. The Grants Officer can be contacted by phone 9249 4036 or email communitygrants@brimbank.vic.gov.au

Key Dates Applications can be made from 22 February 2021 until 21 March 2021 via brimbank.vic. gov.au/grants

How to Apply For more information on how to apply, visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/community/ brimbank-community-grants-program or call the Grants Hotline 9249 4036.

2. Eligible Community groups and organisations. Applicants in this category can apply for a grant up to $8,000. Please note: Stage 2 Community Recovery Grants will prioritise eligible community groups and organisations.

MAYOR’S MESSAGE Cr Ranka Rasic Mayor

I am pleased to welcome you to the first edition of Brimbank NOW for 2021. Council had its first meeting for the year on 16 February, where we discussed many projects that are planned to enhance Brimbank, aid recovery and community support. Applications are now open for the Stage 2 round of the Community Recovery Grants, to support new or existing innovative community led or community based initiatives in Brimbank. There are two categories open and we are inviting applicants to apply now via brimbank.vic.gov.au/grants The winter applications for our community sports subsidy program, In2Sport, are also open. The program encourages young people to get involved in local sports, regardless of their financial situation. This year, Council has made some changes to the In2Sport eligibility criteria to allow those financially impacted by COVID-19 to apply. For more information or to apply, visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/in2sport Lastly, I’m delighted that Council has continued to focus on our environmentally conscious projects, including the annual pop up recycling day in March.

Apply now for In2Sport Brimbank’s In2Sport subsidy program, which helps young people take part in community sport, is open for applications. Children aged between six and 18 years are eligible to apply for the program, worth up to 75 per cent of the club membership fees or up to a maximum of $200 financial assistance, at participating Brimbank sports clubs. To check your eligibility or to apply, please visit brimbank.vic.gov.au/in2sport

Council is proudly supporting City West Water in its water conservation campaign, Make Every Drop Count, encouraging Brimbank residents and businesses to be mindful of every drop they consume. And works have commenced on the Dempster Park Stormwater Harvesting Project in Sunshine North. Please stay safe, stay at home if you’re feeling unwell and get tested at any of the local testing sites if you have any COVID-19 symptoms. E: CrRasic@brimbank.vic.gov.au M: 0437 861 296

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Capital Works New health and wellbeing hub update Work on Brimbank’s new state-of-the-art health and wellbeing hub, on the site of the former St Albans Leisure Centre, has progressed extensively in the past six months and the final design work is now almost complete. After Council awarded the Design and Construction Contract in June 2020, demolition of the St Albans Leisure Centre was completed in August, and earth works are expected to be finished by the end of February. In-ground services and pouring of concrete ground slabs has started across the site. This includes pouring the lift shaft foundation and two of six ground slab pours. Piling and ground slabs are expected to be finished by the end of March. The next step will include installing most of the structural steel and concrete pours for levels 1 and 2. At this point, the structure will come out of ground and create a significant visual change to the site, showcasing the impressive scale of the facility to passing cars on Taylors Road.

Recent improvements • Council delivers $1.2 million Gateway to Sunshine transformation project - The $1.2 million Gateway to Sunshine transformation project is now complete, with significant improvements to the Hampshire Road and Ballarat Road northern entrance to Sunshine and the rejuvenation of MB Lynch Memorial Gardens. The project was jointly funded by Brimbank City Council ($950,000) and the State Government’s Community Crime Prevention Program ($250,000). The Gateway to Sunshine project delivers great benefits for the community with enhanced activity and safety in the town centre. The works include feature lighting and planting at the Hampshire Road and Ballarat Road end, and the rejuvenation of the MB Lynch Memorial Gardens in Sunshine.

Construction is expected to be completed in 2022. The new, state-of-the-art health and wellbeing hub will feature a 50 metre, 10 lane swimming pool, two massive water slides, wellness centre, 24 hour gym, community program room and more.

• Glengala Village Project - Glengala Road Shopping Precinct has had a makeover aimed at encouraging more people to walk, cycle and shop in their local neighbourhood. The works include safe road art, new outdoor seating and dining, pop up parks, landscaping and shopfront improvements. Importantly, the project has also delivered improved road safety. This includes traffic calming road art, a temporary speed limit reduction to 20 km/hr, additional signage and in the coming weeks we’ll be installing a raised pedestrian crossing and speed cushions. The works were funded by a $120,000 State Government grant, which is part of 20 minute neighbourhood initiative to create more inclusive, vibrant and healthy neighbourhoods.

• Devonshire Road safety improvements - Safety improvements are underway along Devonshire Road (between Hampshire Road and George Street) as part of works to improve Sunshine Town Centre, and include: – Traffic lights at George Street & Devonshire Road – Pedestrian crossing with flashing lights at Clarke Street – Bicycle lanes markings on Devonshire Road – Clarke Street traffic direction changed north to south (one way). Works are scheduled for completion in April 2021. Access to shops, businesses and residences will be maintained throughout construction.

Looking forward

• North Sunshine Local Activity Centre - Works will soon start to upgrade the public realm within this local activity centre. The upgrade will include new pavements, seating and plantings. These works are being jointly funded by Council and the State Government.

Works underway • Dempster Park Stormwater Harvesting Project - Work has officially started on the Dempster Park Stormwater Harvesting Project in Sunshine North. This state-of-the-art system will harvest, treat and reuse up to 11 million litres of stormwater each year for irrigation, saving precious drinking water supplies. It is expected to be finished by August. • Local cycle route connection, Deer Park Construction works are nearly completed for a new shared user path from Davitt Drive to Robinsons Road, Deer Park.

Brimbank Mayor Cr Ranka Rasic (right) and Member for St Albans Natalie Suleyman MP (left) at the upgraded MB Lynch Memorial Gardens in Sunshine.

In-ground services and pouring of concrete ground slabs has started across the site.

• Northumberland Road Suburban Park, North Sunshine – Park upgrade works will start soon and include new play items, plantings, pathways, picnic shelter, BBQ, picnic tables, fitness equipment.

Brimbank Mayor Cr Ranka Rasic recently joined the Member for St Albans Natalie Suleyman MP to officially open the upgraded precinct and newly transformed gardens for the community. The Gateway to Sunshine project was part of the Hampshire Road Master Plan (2014). The progressive implementation of this Master Plan has seen a transformation of Sunshine's main street into a unique and vibrant destination, including the soon to be completed Hampshire Road Civic Green in the heart of Sunshine.

It will be a vibrant and welcoming multigenerational health and wellbeing facility with a state-of-theart aquatic and leisure facility, while also offering preventative health, education and social services, all under the one roof.

• Robinson Court Reserve, Delahey - Park upgrade works are underway and expected to be completed by April. The works include: installation of a new play combo, triple swing, seat rocker, climbing posts, climbing net, picnic seat, BBQ, drinking fountain, bin and tree planting.

• Kevin Flint Dog Park - Works will be starting in the coming months to construct a new fenced dog park in Kevin Flint Memorial Reserve, Cairnlea. The fully enclosed dog park will include pathways, seating, shade tree planting and natural areas for the dogs to explore. It will also include separate areas for shy and elderly dogs. These works are being jointly funded by Council and the State Government. • Glengala Pocket Park - Works will be commencing in June to construct a new pocket park in Glengala Road in Glengala. This will transform a piece of underutilised road to a shady pocket park for the community. These works are being jointly funded by Council and the State Government.

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Life’s road trip record ed

Xiang Li.

(George Russell OAM)

Inset: Xiang

Australia’ s Deer Park outback has been last week in a new exhibition brought to . launched Self-taugh 5000 kilom t artist Xiang Li mad Australia etre solo road trip e a last year and used to outback inspiratio n for that The trip was her ﬁrst solo exhib as ition. anyth stayed in a vineyard ing but smooth – not long Li that burn ago car in a sand and was locked ed down outside her She said storm. female empthe trip was abou t self-conﬁd owerment and build ence ing “Life is just . like a road trip, never abou t and it is “It is abou the destination,” experienc t the people we she said. e we met and the On the trip, had.” she colle from her car for whic cted the red dust named. h the exhib ition is The exhib conjunctio ition, which is being run in be at the n with Brimbank council, Hunt Club will Centre in Com munity Deer Park until Marc Arts Details: au/red-du https://creativebrim h 11. st-exhibit ion-by-xia bank.com. ng-

Li’s artwo rk. (Supplied)

Crackdo wn on h oons

By Tara Mur

Tara Murr

ray

Brimbank on duty Highway last Mon crack ing patro day nigh down on surprised t, hoon drive l officers are rise in hoon fatalities. that either incidentsaid they were rs amid a meet recent Senior Cons s. The didn’t end A fema le in fema four occupants of table Aym police were le and three on Dalr ympl the after being was left with signi males, were Commodore, a 60 to 80 vehicattending hoon with e said ficant injur ejected meets, up wrap taken to people les in atten ies occu non-life-t hreatening ped arou from a car that a week. pants were dance, multwith up to Dela injuries. hospital people per car, you’re nd a pole ended hey. Two of the looking ejected iple times who turne in Kings “It’s unfo Senio at 450-5 d up. Park, belie r Constable from the car. In a secon rtunate, “Highway 00 said. it is expe d accident, Dalr ympl patrol was ved both four in the cted now, e investigato accidents out in force Last Mon “Both ” he Furlo vehicles were obser were hoon said they appe second accident was rs . -related. ared to be ng Road on ved racin were told who we were high speed on the freewThe car not far fromday, two serious g crash heading towa ramp near call crash well.” ay es, with drive The inexp the less rds Derrimutand Leading a hoon meet in Derr es occurred and cars split up on about 11pm. than 10 years erienced drivers rs Leading the Western imut. a short time as they have as expe Senior ConsSenior Constable “Seat rienc Ring belts seem later one e,” he said. Rod Hold Senior Cons Senior Constable table Dalr of the cars, Road to be an Lead table Dalr ymple, whoHudson and the en Commodore Hudson crack ing and ymple said back of a sedan, collid a black that ing Senior Cons issue too.” were both down vehicle trave 15 minutes polic table Huds on hoon ed into road. state and driving acrose were befor lling on the same into the pole, there e the first car on said cars that had a significan t database s the crashed atten Derrimut was a gathe -Lave on the Senior Cons ded hoon events. ring in the “There were rton area. attend hoon table Dalr ympl 150-plus e said meet cars, with about three $800 under couns in Brimbank those who can be cil laws, offences. on top of fined police OUT

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Albion Federation Residential Village 639 Ballarat Road Albion Sadie Black Cafe 31 Perth Avenue Ardeer Coles Express 1-5 The Avenue (Cnr Fitzgerald Road) Braybrook Coles Supermarket Braybrook 67 Ashley Street Braybrook Central West Shopping Centre 65-67 Ashley Street Braybrook Braybrook News & Lotto 127 South Road Burnside Burnside News and Lotto 15 Westwood Drive Burnside Heights Milkbar 102 Tenterfield Drive Cairnlea Cairnlea Town Centre 100 Furlong Road Cairnlea Harcourts Real Estate 1a/100 Furlong Road Caroline Springs Caroline Springs Civic Centre/Library 193-201 Caroline Springs Boulevard Caroline Springs Brad Teal Real Estate Caroline Springs Shop 4, 242-244 Caroline Springs Boulevard Caroline Springs Ray White Real Estate Caroline Springs Shop 8, 234 Caroline Springs Boulevard Caroline Springs CS Square Centre 29-35 Lake Street Deer Park Smart Smile Dental Suite 4, 20 Clairview Road Deer Park Deer Park Club 780 Ballarat Road Deer Park Bells Real Estate - Deer Park 813a Ballarat Road Deer Park Biggin and Scott Real Estate Deer Park 817a Ballarat Road Deer Park Comm Unity Plus Community Neighbourhood Centre 822-824 Ballarat Road Deer Park Foodworks 803 Ballarat Road

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Deer Park Cellarbrations liquor store 809 Ballarat Road Deer Park Australia Post - Deer Park 827a Ballarat Road Deer Park Deer Park IGA 8 Hatchlands Drive Deer Park Brimbank Shopping Centre Cnr Neale Road & Station Road Deer Park Derrimut Village Shopping Centre Foleys Road Deer Park Coles Supermarket Deer Park Foleys Road (Derrimut Village Shopping Centre) Deer Park Deer Park Library 4 Neale Road Deer Park Burnham Real Estate Deer Park 93 Station Road Delahey Calder Real Estate 10/350 Taylors Road Delahey IGA Delahey 260 Taylors Road (Delahey Village Shopping Centre) Delahey Delahey Community Centre 80 Copperfeild Drive Derrimut Sunshine Golf Club 475 Mt Derrimut Road Derrimut YPA Estate Agents - Derrimut Shop 9, 20 Mt Derrimut Road Footscray Wards Newsagency 100 Nicholson Street Hillside Foodworks Hillside 49-69 Wattle Valley Drive Hillside Parkwood Green Community Centre 88 Catherine Drive Keilor Brad Teal Real Estate - Keilor 684 Old Calder Highway Keilor Daniel Real Estate 702 Old Calder Highway Keilor Keilor Community Hub 704b Old Calder Highway Keilor Keilor Newsagent 700 Old Calder Highway Keilor Keilor Retirement Village 868 Old Calder Highway Service Road Keilor Downs Centro Shopping Centre 80 Taylors Road Keilor Park Frank’s Supermarket 5 Fosters Road Keilor Park Ferguson Plarre Bakehouse Shop 32, 40 Keilor Park Drive

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Kings Park Westvale Community Centre 45 Kings Road St Albans Homes Group Real Estate 63 Alfrieda Street St Albans Westside Real Estate 1a Alfrieda Street St Albans IGA St Albans 18 East Esplanade 9364 3388 St Albans Barry Plant Real Estate St Albans 1-7 Elaine Street St Albans Sunshine Hospital 176 Furlong Road St Albans Joan Kirner Women’s & Childrens Hospital 176 Furlong Road St Albans ABC Real Estate 286 Main Road East St Albans St Albans Newsagency 304 Main Road East (9366 2273) St Albans Ray White Real Estate St Albans 308 Main Road East St Albans Raine and Horne St Albans 352 Main Road East St Albans YPA Estate Agents St Albans 67 Main Road West St Albans First National Eeal Estate St Albans 8/346 Main Road West St Albans Danny & Co Real Estate St Albans 352 Main Road West St Albans People In Real Estate 1 Princess St St Albans Stockdale and Leggo St Albans 9 Alfrieda Street St Albans Sweeney Real Estate St Albans 22 Alfrieda Street Sunshine Hocking Stuart Sunshine 134 Durham Street Sunshine Stockdale Leggo Sunshine 273 Hampshire Road Sunshine Thomson Real Estate Sunshine 3/473 Ballarat Road Sunshine Brotherhood of St Laurence Lvl 6, 12 Clarke Street Sunshine Bells Real Estate Sunshine 14 Devonshire Road Sunshine Sunshine RSL 99 Dickson Street Sunshine Barry Plant Real Estate Sunshine 271 Hampshire Road Sunshine GL Lee Real Estate

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Sunshine 275 Hampshire Road Sunshine Douglas Kay Real Estate Sunshine 280 Hampshire Road Sunshine Sunshine Library 301 Hampshire Road Sunshine Brimbank City Council 301 Hampshire Road Sunshine Sunshine Plaza 324-328 Hampshire Road Sunshine Sweeney Real Estate Sunshine 4a/282 Hampshire Road Sunshine Sunshine Marketplace 80 Harvester Road Sunshine Woolworths Supermarket Sunshine 80 Harvester Road (Sunshine Marketplace) Sunshine North North Sunshine Post, News and Lotto 69 McIntyre Road Sunshine West Morgan’s Super IGA Supermarket 475 Fitzgerald Road Sunshine West Bottler Sunshine West Drive in Liquor 79 Glengala Road Sunshine West Coles Supermarket Sunshine West 136 The Avenue Sydenham YPA Estate Agents Sydenham Ground Floor, 15-17 Overton Lea Boulevard Sydenham O’Brien Real Estate 17b Overton Overton Lea Boulevard Taylors Hill Taylors Hill Land Sales Cnr Taylors & Gourlay Roads Taylors Hill Watervale Shopping Centre 2-14 Calder Park Drive Taylors Lakes Professionals Real Estate Shop 27 3 Melton Highway (Taylors Lakes Shopping Centre) Taylors Lakes Taylors Lakes Lotto Shop 8 3 Melton Highway (Taylors Lakes Shopping Centre) Taylors Lakes YPA Estate Agents Taylors Lakes Shop 5, 399 Melton Highway (Watergardens Shopping Centre) Taylors Lakes Watergardens Shopping Centre 399 Melton Highway

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Sunset Safari shines bright Werribee’s Open Range Zoo is committed to fighting wildlife extinction. One of its latest experiences gives visitors an exclusive glimpse into the lives of the animals it strives to protect .... As the sun sets over Werribee Open Range Zoo’s 45-hectare savannah, the many African animals that call the zoo home are at their most active. It’s a magical few hours, dipped in an orange glow, that’s not usually seen by visitors but relished by keepers. Starting this month, the Zoo’s immersive wildlife experience, Sunset Safari, gives visitors the chance to experience the after-hours wonder for themselves, and will run funtil March 13. Visitors can see the zoo in an entirely new light as safari guides drive small-group buses through the open range habitat, which is home to some of the world’s most iconic animals, including rhinoceros, giraffe, zebra and ostrich.? The mesmerising experience also includes performances of African drumming, dance and song. Werribee Open Range Zoo director Glen Holland said Sunset Safari is an exclusive glimpse into the lives of the precious animals that call the zoo home. “This is the closest you can get to an authentic African Safari and there’s no plane ticket required,” Mr Holland said. “Through the stories your guide shares, you will learn about the plight of species in the wild – such as Southern white rhino – and how you can join us on our journey to secure a future rich in wildlife.” Proceeds from Sunset Safari help Zoos Victoria support international conservation partner, Rhino Fund Uganda, in their efforts to save the Southern white rhino from extinction. Rhinos are under serious threat from

(Pictures: Supplied)

poaching due to an escalating demand for rhino horn. It’s estimated that three African rhinos are killed every day, and less than 20,000 Southern white rhinos remain in the wild. Rhino Fund Uganda aims to

recover the country’s population of rhinos following their extinction in the region in the 1980s. Sunset Safari is held from 5.30pm to 9pm every Saturday to March 13, as well as Valentine’s Day. Entry to the

special after-hours event costs $79 for adults and $49 for children. Food and drink packages are sold separately and can be pre-booked or purchased on the night. To book or for more information visit www. zoo.org.au/sunsetsafari

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Back to school Twins Colby and Sebastian, and Rania and Dania, were among the excited pupils starting school at Furlong Park School for Deaf Children last week. The school reopened for 2021 on Thursday and there was plenty of fun for the two sets of twins and their school friends. Colby and Sebastian, 8, and Rania and Dania, 6, are two of three sets of twins at the school this year. The school has about 65 students. A third set of twins will start on February 11 and will be part of the school’s early years program. Principal Lee Bullock said it was possibly the first time the school had welcomed three sets of twins.

(Damjan Janevski) 226450_01

Back to school

Twins Colby and Sebastian, and Rania and Dania, were among the excited pupils starting school at Furlong Park School for Deaf Children last week. By Tara Murray The school reopened for 2021 on Two western suburbs advocates are calling for government action after a waste management Thursday and there was plenty of fire fun for in Brooklyn last week.

Tara Murray

There have been at least eight factory, waste management or tip fires across the west and Hume since October, while the Kealba landfill has had underground fires burning continuously for more than a year. Former LeadWest chief executive Craig Rowley and former state MLC member Colleen Hartland say enough is enough. “It’s a long-running issue,” Mr Rowley said. “It doesn’t matter which party has been in power at the time, they haven’t done enough clean-up of the west.

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“The urgency to clean it [industry] up has never been greater.” Mr Rowley said during his time with LeadWest, from 2010-18, one of the biggest concerns raised by local councils was the need for a cleaner, greener and more liveable western metropolitan area. “We were constantly talking about it with the other tiers of government, about the investment needed in the west to make it cleaner and greener. “It just seems that it is taking a long time to get there.” Mr Rowley said an Environment Protection Act, which changes how the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) regulates pollution, waste and contamination in Victoria, had been

delayed for 12 months. “We’ve been waiting for so long to have confidence to be able to breath fresh air. Confidence that our creeks aren’t going to be polluted.” He suggests forming a steering committee which would include the EPA, WorkSafe, MFB and council representatives to have a co-ordinated approach to industry clean-up. “I don’t think questions are being asked on Spring Street as often as they should.” He also proposed government funding to help bring old industrial estates up to the 21st century and the introduction of better air quality monitoring systems. Ms Hartland is a member of the Facebook group Anti-Toxic Waste Alliance, which was

set up after the West Footscray warehouse fire which spewed toxic fumes across the western suburbs for days in August 2018. She said the group, a non-political alliance of community groups, organisations and individuals, wants action. “There’s been a spate of these fires,” she said. “There’s been three in the last 10 days. “The EPA and the state government don’t seem to be taking it seriously.” Ms Hartland said the group wanted more regulation on industrial sites, clear information about when the EPA is called in and when and for how long air quality equipment is set up. She has also called for the act to be introduced. ■ Fire

probed: Page 3

12481573-NG07-21

Fire sparks call to arms

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NEWS

FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

February 18, 1981

February 20, 1991

February 20, 2001

February 22, 2011

Sunshine council has reconstructed its progressive noise pollution by-law to avoid a head-on confrontation with the Environmental Protection Authority [EPA].

Sunshine Primary School celebrated 100 years.

Brimbank residents in low socio-economic circumstances will suffer most if Brimbank council goes ahead with plans to cut funds or withdraw support to six neighbourhood houses.

A groundbreaking prison visit program has been launched in Deer Park to support “the forgotten victims of crime”.

The best in Point Cook retirement living

Established homes now available

Villa 221

Villa 23

Villa 18

Villa 26

$499K $TBA $650 $605 2

Prices valid at publication date.

From time to time selected villas become available for sale to new residents of RCA Villages. These are not brand-new units and, on occasion, have additions and/or improvements included.

Freecall: 1800 645 264 pointcookvillage.com.au • 320 Point Cook Road, Point Cook For more information about our range of retirement communities visit: rcavillages.com.au 21 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

‘‘

The club hasn’t seen me as a trans person but as a person - Mia Smith

’’

Making history Mia Smith has made history in the Western Region Football League, becoming the first transgender player to be granted permission to play in any of the league’s competitions. She spoke with Tara Murray about what it means to be able to take to the field for North Sunshine’s women’s side this year.

ia Smith never had aspirations to play with North Sunshine in the Western Region Football League women’s competition. Smith, who is transgender, joined the club as a supporter and was happy watching the club’s women’s team from the sidelines. She started to help out where she could and last year joined the club’s committee. That led to a few training sessions with the Roadrunners, and sparked a dream to one day pull on the jumper in a game for the club. That dream is now a reality. The WRFL recently granting Smith permission to play for the Roadrunners women’s side this season. A WRFL spokesperson said Smith was the first transgender player to take to the field in the league. Her approval to play was granted under the Australian Football League community football gender diversity policy. “It’s so amazing,” Smith said last week. “I’m flying high. “The club has been absolutely tremendous. The club hasn’t seen me as a trans person but as a person.” Smith said it was special to be the first transgender player to take to the field in the competition. “It’s pretty mind blowing,” she said. “I know a lot of transgender playing at the moment and to be the first in this league would be awesome.” Smith first formed a bond with the Roadrunners at her former workplace, Pride of our Footscray Community Bar, when team members dropped in for a drink.

Mia Smith is presented with her jumper at training. (Pictures: Supplied)

She said that as the team was supporting her in her work, that she would support them on the field, and went to watch them play. “I just went along to support them,” she said. “I would watch them play four players down … win or lose, each week they played as if there was a point or two in it. “The players are so amazing and I’m in awe the way they do it.” Smith joined in training sessions last year before COVID-19 shut down the season. She returned to the field again with the team ahead of the upcoming season.

22 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

“I had no interest in playing footy until a few years ago,” she admits. Smith, who is 53-years-old, said she hadn’t played any sport, including football, since finishing school. She said she would love to play a couple of seasons. “I don’t want special rights, I just want equal rights,” she said. “The committee, and especially the women’s team, has been amazing. I’m so lucky I bumped into them, it’s been life altering.” North Sunshine club president and former

women’s coach Rob Telfer said inclusion is what community football is about. Telfer was among those at the Footscray bar the night Smith first met the women’s team. He was honoured to present Smith with her jumper at training recently. “This just shows how far football has come,” he said on the club’s website. “It [football] should be open to everyone, that’s what our club is about, giving everyone a go. “When I got the news I was proud; proud that it is our club that has taken the hard steps to fight to make sure we got a result, the result

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COMMUNITY

Return to lockdown Victoria was plunged into a five-day stage 4 lockdown last week as a “short, sharp circuit breaker” against a “hyper-infectious” outbreak of the UK strain of COVID-19. In scenes reminiscent of just under 12 months ago when coronavirus first struck, shops were closed and streets fell silent. Star Weekly photographers Joe Mastroianni and Damjan Janevski captured the eerie quietness.

23 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

COMMUNITY STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

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

Language cafe Wyndham residents can practice their English skills, meet new people, connect with the community and learn from others at the language cafe on Thursday, February 25, 12.30-1.30pm. Electronic device and registration required. You will be provided with a link to attend after registering. ■ www.wyndhamtogether.com.au/event/ language-cafe-2/all/

Kinder open night Kindergartens across the City of Whittlesea will open their doors to the public on Thursday, February 25, 5.30-7.30pm. Take the opportunity to speak with teachers and discuss programs on offer at kindergartens across the municipality. Bookings not required. ■ 9217 2170

Leadership program Brimbank residents can apply to take part in the Brimbank Community Leadership Program to build and strengthen their capacity in community leadership and participation. Registrations close Friday, February 26 and chosen participants will be informed by Thursday, March 4. The course will be conducted online at no charge between March and May 202.1 ■ 9249 4000 or cgprograms@brimbank. vic.gov.au

Detox your home Brimbank residents can clear out household toxic chemicals at a pop-up collection day on Saturday, February 27, 9am-3pm at Brimbank council’s operations centre, Stadium Drive, Keilor Park. Online registration required. ■ www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/ detoxyourhome

Through the lens

Photographer Damjan Janevski was all aboard for some fun during this shoot with the Bulla Hill Railway on their fully functional miniature steam train. Janevski wanted to make it look like a ’real train driven by giants’, so took this particular photo with an ultra-wide-angle lens and positioned the camera low to emphasise the perspective.

Spot’s birthday party

Outdoor yoga and pilates Enjoy the great Wyndham outdoors on Saturday, February 27, at 8.30-9.15am for pilates and 9.30-10.30am for yoga. No booking required. Open to all ages and levels of fitness. Turn up to the Little Growling Cafe grass area, 180 Davis Road, Tarneit. Cost: $5 per person, per class. ■ 0438 304638 or bewiseyoga@gmail.com

Dream big festival The Dream Big Festival will be held at Mt Carberry Reserve, 41 Exford Road, Melton South on Sunday, February 28, from 3pm. There will be arts, sport, a marketplace, food, live music and performances. Entry is free. ■ 9361 9377 or healthpromotion@djhs.org.au

Open studios Macedon artists are opening up their studios to the public on February 27-28, 10am-4pm. Brochures with a map of studio locations available at The Gallery, Mt Macedon and Gisborne Library. ■ Search @openstudiosmacedo on Instagram

Friendly frogs for your garden Frogs are indicators of healthy environments. Hume residents can learn about what frogs and tadpoles need, and how to add these elements to their garden during a free webinar on Thursday, March 4, 7-8.30pm. Residents can also learn about local species of frogs, and

environmental changes that threaten them. ■ https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/humecity-council-16445167964

World Day of Prayer People are being invited to pray for the needs of Vanuatu and its people at local church services and events on World Day of Prayer, Friday, March 5. This year’s theme is ‘build on a strong foundation’. ■ www.worlddayofprayeraustralia.org

Lost and found exhibition Until Thursday, March 11, Hume residents can witness Lisa Buckland’s first solo exhibition, exploring a personal journey of grief and recovery through art. The exhibition is at Town Hall Broadmeadows on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am-4.30pm. Those unable to attend in person can view the exhibit online. ■ 9205 2200 or gallery@hume.vic.gov.au

Show information session Whittlesea Agricultural Society is holding a show information session on Sunday, March 14, noon-2pm, at the Whittlesea Agricultural Society administration building, gate 1, McPhees Road, Whittlesea. Free sausage sizzle and heritage display. ■ 9716 2835

Movie night Enjoy live music and a screening of Beauty and the Beast on Friday, March 19 at The Nook, Sunbury. Gates open 5.30pm, with entertainment from 6pm and the movie screening at 7pm. BYO picnic and blanket or buy food. Registration required. ■ https://bit.ly/3tJGM4D

Take off weight naturally Struggling to lose weight? Struggling to get motivated? Want to try and do it in a

24 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

friendly and less stressful atmosphere? Come and join TOWN (Take Off Weight Naturally) every Tuesday at 6pm at the Darlingsford Barn, Darlingsford Boulevard, Melton. ■ Catherine, 0416 612 517, or Bob, 0411 824 739

Heritage walks Enjoy a 90-minute leisurely heritage walk with guide John, starting at the Williamstown Visitor Information Centre in Nelson Place, each Tuesday at 9.20am. Each week covers a different route. ■ John, 0418 377 336

Childcare places Occasional child care is available at Outlets, Newport Community Education Centre, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Sessions are available from 9am-12pm, 9am-2pm or 11am-2pm. Child care subsidies offered. ■ 9391 8504 or www.outletsco-op.com.au

■ https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/hume-

city-council-16445167964

Get into golf month March will be filled with golf activities and offers at Keilor Public Golf Course. The free events will run at 540 Calder Freeway, Keilor North. Stay up-to-date on events happening each day by searching @keilorgolf on social media. ■ 0414 918 533 or email kpgc@belgravialeisure.com.au

Siva Somoa dance Learn Siva Samoa dance with Hobsons Bay’s own Tama Tatau. The group supports young men who have been brought up in Australia to learn Samoan and Pacific songs and dances of their ancestors. Sessions are held Mondays, 5.30-8pm, and Fridays 5-7.30pm, during school terms. Cost: 10 per class ■ Victor, tamatatau@live.com or facebook.com/tama.tatau

Alcoholics Anonymous Regular face-to-face meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous have resumed. Meetings are held at St Thomas Anglican Church, 117 Synnot Street, Werribee, on Mondays from 7.30pm, and St Andrew’s Church Hall, Williamstown, on Wednesdays from 7pm. ■ Werribee: 0412 432 760. For other face-to-face and Zoom AA meetings call 1300 22 22 22 or visit wwww.aatimes.org.au

Make your own lantern Sunbury residents can join Indian artist Manan Walia to make individual bark ‘tree’ lanterns on Sunday, March 21, 10am-noon at the Hume Global Learning Centre, 44 Macedon Street, Sunbury.

(iS to ck )

Celebrate lovable pup Spot’s belated 40th birthday on Saturday, February 27 from 10.30-11.30am, at the grass area behind Caroline Springs Library, corner Lake Street and The Parade. Bring your own picnic rug and/or cushions. ■ 9747 5300 or library@melton.vic.gov.au

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY

Your pictures Star Weekly readers share some of their favourite moments with family, friends and colleagues.

Maisies celebrates her first birthday with 10-year-old Russ and Misty.

Rose Camilleri took this photo of Werribee South at sunset.

McEwen MP Rob Mitchell, Whittlesea Secondary College principal Lian Davies and school captains Harmony Lower and Alicia Biancon recently unveiled a Black Saturday memorial plaque and garden designed by school chaplain Fran Salvestrin. Within the school community, 21 people, including four students and a teacher, died in the bushfires on February 7, 2009. Ms Davies said the garden was symbolic of the school’s emergence from the disaster.

Nat Harris snapped this stunning Wyndham sunset last week.

Nine month-old Olivia enjoying some backyard summer fun with her mum Lauren.

Tarneit Senior College VCAL students held a Valentine’s Day event recently. They sourced roses from Dorothy’s Werribee, made sweets, set up a photo booth and filmed promotional videos. VCAL co-ordinator and teacher Jamie Calleja-Bailey said the students invested $500 into the project and made a total of $886. He said the students would put the funds towards their next business initiative, which is a catering company. 25 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

PUZZLES SUDOKU

No. 017

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

easy

6 1 9 2 5 3 4 1 8 4 7 9 3 8 4 8 3 6 2 4 5 6 3 9 5 4 4 8 2 6 7 medium

1 9 4 8 9

3 1

2 8 4 6 5 1 3 7 3 4 8 1 1 9 8 5 2 6 5 5 4 8 6

QUICK CROSSWORD ACROSS

DOWN

Snakes (6) Non-sexual (8) Roman Christianity (11) Spoken word music (3) Ghost (7) French country house (7) Clerics (7) Folding paper art (7) Refrain; pass (7) Striking (7) Gathers (7) Thoughts; ideas (7) Hitch; bind (3) Efficiency increasers (11) Under the pump (8) Softly (6)

1 4 10 11 12 13 14 17 19 20 21 23 26 27 28 29

No. 017

1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 14 15 16 18 22 23 24 25

Roosters (5) Power cells (9) End; withdraw (5) Ancient waist garment (9) Orchestral drummer (9) Carer (5) Imprisoning (9) Two-wheeled vehicle (4) Childhood friends (9) Brazen (9) Variety of rock (9) Relative position (9) Steep (5) Satellite (4) Pig (5) Cheeky; lively (5)

DECODER

No. 017

hard

7 7

10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

Y 18

9-LETTER WORD Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Today’s Aim: 23 words: Good 34 words: Very good 46 words: Excellent

D A

3 LETTERS AGE CAR DUE DYE GEE GET GNU HAT IDS ILL ION LID MAP MOO ODE PIE SAG SAW SEC SOS TNT WEB WEE YES 4 LETTERS ALAS CYST GALS GEED GIST ILLS MAPS OBOE POOR REST SPAT SPOT STOP TIER 5 LETTERS ABATE

ADAPT AGAIN ALERT ALIEN ASIDE ASSET BALES BRISK CHASE CHEWS CLAIM CREST CRUST DRESS DROOL EAGLE EASEL EDGED ELEGY EPICS EVILS GENES

No. 017

HELLO LADLE LEAVE LEVEE MACHO ODOUR OMEGA ONYAS OPENS PASTA PATIO PAVED PEDAL PETTY PIVOT SHADE SLAYS SLEEP STALE STEEP STRUT SWAPS

SWEEP THESE USAGE VENUE VINYL 6 LETTERS ANNULS MOSTLY ONUSES SENILE

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26 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

SECTION

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

networkclassifieds.com.au Trades & Services

Place your ad in print and online www.networkclassifieds.com.au V Trades Business Profile

V Bathroom & Kitchens

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Bill 0410 48 14 17

We accept payment by:

TRADES & SERVICES

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฀

฀ ฀

JAD COOLING AND HEATING ฀ ฀

฀

V Builders & Building Services

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Call Je

Andrew 0425 852 621 12412038-FA09-10

KS Heating & Cooling

Call 0430 332 368

G6425413AA-dc5Nov

V Asphalting

AIR CONDITIONING COOLING & HEATING 12461679-JW39-41

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We NEVER

9998 3725

www.Ser viceToday.com.au

Lic No. AU 51273

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12481914-SG09-21

V Air Conditioning

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V Carpet Cleaning Carpet Steam Cleaning

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฀ ฀

฀

฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ace_cooling@hotmail.com

12447213-FA17-20

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General Notices section of Network Classifieds.

฀ ฀

12420493-CG25-19

CALL 1300 666 808 V Alarms

EXCEL ALARM SERVICES Security, Intercom & CCTV Camera Upgrades To Full HD Install & Servicing Existing Systems and all areas.

0408 537 247

9484 6954

www.excelalarms.com

12392210-ACM28-18

816 479

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V Bathroom & Kitchens

*conditions apply

FLETCHERS

BASED ON LOCATION CARPET CLEANING UPHOLSTERY CLEANING ABN 92 465 717 255 18 Years Experience FREE DEODORISING

ABN: 226 347 499 92

฀

CARPENTER/JOINER CARPENTER/JOINER ELECTRICIAN PLUMBER

12445949-RC14-20

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Carlton Jackson Adrian Jackson Damien Jackson Aaron Jackson

www.mrkitchens.com.au

12476756-SN03-21

฀

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All Types Of Concreting VM CONCRETING ฀

Call Victor on 0412

฀ ฀

฀

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084 469 or 9747 1999

Kitchens & Bathroom Renovations · Plumbing · Tiling · Electrical · Carpentry · Plastering · One stop shop - Kitchen, bathroom, laundries & renovation needs. · Complete service from start to finish, including kitchen 3D design. · Appliance packages available. · Bathroom tapware, accessories & tiles on display in our showroom. Showroom by appointment only Free Quotes & Mobile Ensuite Hire. terms & conditions apply Please note that we specialise in renovations - we do not do repairs or maintenance

8348 5441

www.topedgekitchens.com.au

SMALL SMALL CONCRETING CONCRETING JOBS JOBS "We do all the small jobs that the bigger companies don't have time for" Up to 60 square metres Shed floors, paths, driveways etc. Coloured, plain, slate and stencil. FREE MEASURE & QUOTE Workmanship guaranteed, with over 30 years experience

Phone Tony 0404 775 573

12416265-CG17-19

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NDIS accredited

12482163-NG07-21

฀

12396477-DJ34-18

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Patchwork, Ex Specialising, in Cornices New homes n Building Maintenance ConstructioExternal 7 592 Internal & remy 0401 22

12429226-CG42-19

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12463437-NG40-2

12434534-LB03-20

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AIR CONDITIONING AND HEATING ฀

Carlton Crew

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V Air Conditioning

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12479454-CG05-21

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12425486-CG35-19

V Deadline

Place Your Classified Ads Online Your advert will appear in print and online! 27 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

Trades & Services

Place your ad in print and online www.networkclassifieds.com.au V Fencing & Gates

V Furniture Removals

FUSSY FURNITURE REMOVALS Competetive prices - time starts at your door. Will beat any reasonable quote.

Ph: 0413 693 216 | 0422 437 935

F & J ROLLER DOORS

12479887-JW04-21

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V Plasterers

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12360798-DJ33-17

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Call Sam

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฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ Registered and Insured

V Guttering

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★ New & Existing ★

Homes

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1232632-ACM26-16

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฀ 12447748-LB18-20

Handyman Service

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12416765-SN19-19

Ph Sergio 0431 649 907

Email: admin@catoggioplumbing.com

HOME MAINTENANCE • Concrete Pressure Wash • Concrete & Landscape • Roof Pointing • Plaster Repairs • Painting Interior & Exterior • Rubbish Removal • Free Quotes

Colourbond and Timber Fencing

FENCING & R E PA I R S ฀฀ ฀

฀

Call Wayne 0482 966 097

AARON & JOHN’S DEMOLITION & RUBBISH REMOVALS

฀

Phone Bernie 0408 455 305 28 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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CALL: 0415 177 388 Lic No. 116785

V Television/Video/Audio

MAINTENANCE PLUMBER

ANTENNA MAN

All Plumbing & Maintenance at low prices.

Call Tom on 0419 388 264 FREE DESIGN-CHEAPEST PRICE

For free quote call Mob: 0423 595 388 Email: sales@lnkitchens.com.au Showroom: 24 Berkshire Rd, North Sunshine

Call 0434 525 311

CHEAP BIN HIRE AND RUBBISH REMOVAL

1231835-RC25-16

Specialise in: - Kitchens, vanities, laundries, wardrobes, storages Glass: Splashback, shower screen, mirrors, glass.

• Demolition Specialists • Backyard Cleanups • Concrete Broken or Cut & Removed • Tree Lopping & Removal • Rental Cleanups • Deceased Estate Cleanups We Take Anything Away

PENSIONER DISCOUNT

V Kitchens

12418962-22-19

1173390-DJ08-15

✓ Removal of old fences ✓ Specialist with any gates

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V Rubbish Removal

ALL WEST 12475377-JW51-20

Colorbond, Tubular & Timber Fencing & Gates

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Call Mark 0401 478 799

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12481950-JW07-21

MEL FENCING

TILE COAT For all roof restoration needs. Cleaning, repointing, painting, leak repairs, etc…

ALL WEST HOME MAINTENANCE • Concrete Pressure Wash • Concrete & Landscape • Roof Pointing • Plaster Repairs • Painting Interior & Exterior • Rubbish Removal • Free Quotes Call Wayne 0482 966 097

12367852-ACM41-17

Call 0403 948 894

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V Roofing

12450404-AM23-20

12424718-SN34-19

Specialising in ColorBond, Timber Fencing and all repairs.

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• 100% Australian Made & Owned • 10 years replacement warranty • Electric, manual or combination • Single and group remote controlled • Connected to smoke alarm (auto-lift) FOR FREE MEASURE & QUOTE PH: 9336 0005 JORDAN: 0413 708 238

V Home Maintenance

PH: 0402 264 750

OZTEC WINDOW SHUTTERS

SERVICING ST ALBANS AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

฀ ฀

Bill 0410 48 14 17

Call Ned for a FREE QUOTE

V Roller Shutters

V Handy Persons

V Fencing & Gates

� 17 Years Guarantee � 10% Pensioner Discount � Council Permit Supplied � Computer Levelling

9366 7831 - 0417 556 963

Lic 27257

Mini Loader, Excavator & Tipper ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀

� Free Quote � All Suburbs � Insurance � Elevation

yes we can

0421 421 640

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DB-L-29449

David: 0425 811 882 Ash: 0403 619 333

• Fridges • Freezers L011010 / AU-05387 • Air Conditioners • Car Re-gassing

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For our FAST

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RJ GUTTERS

ABN 40 640 572 030

MEL-ASH REFRIGERATION

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Simon 0422 899 759

V Excavators

฀

Call Us Today...

12451044-NG24-20

REC 17959

PLEASE CALL JESSE ON 0412 827 875

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St Albans Plumbers g All Pricinnt Up-Fro

MOWING PLUS MORE ฀

977914

V Refrigeration

Free Quotes & Fully Insured | Call Mal 0432 977 043

฀ ฀ ฀

G6519072AA-dc21Jan

Tel: 9309 2351

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CALL ANE ELECTRICS TODAY OUR SERVICES INCLUDE Switchboard upgrades ŽǁŶůŝŐŚƚ ŝŶƐƚĂůůĂƟŽŶƐ ^Ɖůŝƚ ƐǇƐƚĞŵ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ͬ ŝŶƐƚĂůůĂƟŽŶƐ All electrical service and repairs

G6795050AA-dc29Apr 1132314-LB19-14

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Lic 30742

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0419 508 734

1233958-CG26-16

12451043-NG24-20

Lic No. REC 30504

฀

• Lawn mowing/Edging • Hedge trimming • Gutter cleaning • Garden clean up • Green Waste removal

Registered Building Practitioner

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MR GARDENS

We NEVER

FREE SMOKE ALARM

PH: 9360 5357 Mobile: 0412 378 193

MIRMICLicPLUMBING 35031

0450 820 170 - 7 days

12480916-SN06-21

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NICK’S RE-BLOCKING SERVICE

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Call Joe 0498 375 094 - 7 days

SERVICING ST ALBANS AREA FOR OVER TEN YEARS

20 years’ experience

ALL SUBURBS ★ RAISING ★ LEVELLING ★ UNDERPINNING ★ RESTUMPING WITH CONCRETE OR REDGUM STUMPS ★ COUNCIL PERMIT ★ ALL WORK GUARANTEED

V Plumbing

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yes we can

Reg No 8659

฀

AMAZING GARDEN SERVICES

Lighting Power Points Phone & Data Hot Water And more...

Marcus: 0403 715 536 catcoplumbing@gmail.com

MEMBER OF MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

Call Jeremy 0401 227 592

฀

Installation of Split System Air-conditioners General Plumbing | Rooﬁng | Sewer and Stormwater Drainage

V Reblocking/Underpinning

JRA PLASTERING CARPENTRY & PAINTING

A1 Garden Maintenance & Rubbish Removals ฀ ฀

CATCO PLUMBING AND AIR CONDITIONERS

Receive 10% OFF when you mention this ad

V Garage/Garage Doors

9746 7785

Lic No. 116785

12482742-LB08-21

Reliable & Experienced Removalist | 2 men - from $85 per hour.

฀ ฀

9988 9159

V Painters/Decorators

V Garden Services

St Albans Electricians

Senior discount Cards welcome

12480716-CG06-21

section of Network Classiﬁeds.

FREE QUOTES Mobile: 0478 129 330 | ABN. 43462185813

g All Pricin t Up-Fron

All Aspects of Landscaping FREE QUOTE Call Tony: 0421 203 745

Employment

Residential - Commercial - Industrial

V Electricians

Lifetime Warranty!

TKKK LANDSCAPING Bob Cat Tipper Hire

www.rmfencing.com.au

NATHAN FENECH CONCRETING All • Footings • Slabs • Foundations • Concrete Paving • Concrete Restorations NO JOB TOO SMALL!

772 304

12473978-JW50-20

Domestic - Commercial - Industrial s Slate s Exposed s Plain s Colour s Stencil s Restore Driveways Seal and Concrete Cutting Free quotes Call Ricky on 0431 261 855

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C915642-JM14-11

D & R CONCRETING

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12386073-RC18-18

C753520-KK1-10

For free quote call David on 0413 789 755 AH: 9323 0977

Ph: (03) 8360 9997 Ray 0422 118 920

12402111-RA43-18

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12477100-CG03-21

Steel Fences Made to Measure s Steel Fences s Double/Single Gates s Pools s Gardens s Auto/Manual Sliding Gates s Picket & Slat Fencing s Aluminium Security Doors & Windows s Fly screens s Window Roller Shutters Accessories Sale Now - Free Quote – Cheapest prices!

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GT V CONCRETING

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R & M Fencing (Vic)

0408 993 912 or 9331 6391

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12463437-NG40-20

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12398667-SN37-18

s Plain Concrete s Coloured Concrete s Slate impression s Stencil

KITCHEN FACELIFTS

12370916-RC45-17

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12401756-CG42-18

12400595-SN40-18

30 years experience

Gates & Pergolas ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ ฀ Lou 0412 339 445 Tony 0431 339 739

V Plumbing 12450405-AM23-20

Lou’s Colorbond Fencing

AFFORDABLE CONCRETE PAVING

V Kitchens 12402755-RA44-18

V Concrete Products & Services

Lic 38337

HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TECHNICIANS ANTENNA SERVICE ALL AREAS

DIGITAL ANTENNAS AMPLIFIERS TV OUTLETS

0409 888 228

12469374-CG46-20

General Notices V Public Notices and Event

12340308-HM08-17

Trees Pruned Reshaped Grubbed out. All Foliage/Rubbish Removed Fully Insured $10m Pensioner Discount

Free Quote 7 Day Service 45 yrs exp.

C & D Schroeder 9337 3695 or 0415 816 882 V Washing Machines

JD Call out $40

Mob: 0414 484 932

General Classifieds V Personal

Vinny is 37yrs old, ﬁnancially secure, 183cm, 83kgs with black hair & brown eyes. He enjoys the outdoors, dinning out, family, travel and trying out new adventures. Vinny is looking for a genuine lady in his local area. To speak with Vinny please call

1800 261 848 0488 200 554

$100/ 30mins Open 7 days 48 Davies Avenue, Sunshine North 9364 0770 SWA6566B

V Clearing Sales VANOSHY PRE LOVED GOODS We buy and sell household items, if you are having clean out we pay cash for unwanted items in good quality condition. Ph: 9360 4190 or 0466 907 714 V Health And Fitness

NATURAL PLUS

7 days, 9.30am - 9.30pm. 5 City Place, Sunshine. Phone 9311 0198.

KEL TORI Chief Executive Officer 12483220-NG09-21

ADVERTISERS, in this section are qualified practitioners and offer nonsexual services.

Sell it local

1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new Optus and Vodafone equipment and associated works as follows (including 5G); • The replacement of the existing headframe with a new headframe; ,QVWDOODWLRQ RI ÀIWHHQ QHZ SDQHO DQWHQQDV (not more than 2.8m long); • Removal of six (6) existing panel antennas; • Installation, relocation and removal of ancillary equipment including RRUs, antenna mounts, feeders, cabling, combiners, and other associated equipment; and • Works within the existing equipment shelter. 2. Optus & Vodafone regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the description above. 3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Jessica Bradbury/0428 526 796, or via the Lendlease Wireless Consultation inbox at optus.enquiries@wirelessconsultation.com.au or =HQLWK &HQWUH /HYHO 7RZHU % 3DFLÀF +LJKZD\ Chatswood NSW 2167, by 5pm, Wednesday, 10th March 2021 4. If you would like to know more about this site, further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/3030012

Natural Place

Relaxation Massage Clinic 5 City Place, Sunshine 9.30am-11pm 7 days Phone: 9311 0198 V Pets & Services ADVERTISERS PLEASE NOTE Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identiﬁcation number. It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identiﬁcation number is included in the advertisement or notice. For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

V For Sale

FREE CLASSIFIEDS • Available in the For Sale or Wanted Classiﬁcations only. • 4 lines of copy • Ad will run for 2 weeks • 1 item per advertisement • Item must be priced under $100 • Private party only – household and personal items • No animals, automotive or plants • Ads must be submitted via email to sales@networkclassiﬁeds.com.au 12477681-CG03-21

V Garage Sales

12400498-CG38-18

PLACE YOUR

V Public Notices and Event

Professional Services

Want to place an ad but not sure where to start? Call our helpful classiﬁed team between 8:30am-5pm Mon-Fri for FREE advice!

Employment section of Network Classifieds.

Brimbank City Council Rabbit Control Program

Employment V Positions Vacant

Brimbank City Council is conducting a Rabbit Control Program to take place between Monday 1 March 2021 and Monday 5 April 2021.

Ready for take-off? Our industry is commencing its recovery from its longest ever shut-down, so there has never been a better time to start your career in aviation. Swissport, the world’s leader in airport ground handling services, some of the biggest names in aviation.

• Taylors Creek Valley, Keilor • Green Gully Reserve, Keilor All areas will be clearly sign posted.

If you have dreamed of working on the airport, working with Swissport is the opportunity you have been waiting for. From working in the baggage sorting room to driving baggage tractors, from pushing back aircraft to supervising teams, Swissport will provide you with comprehensive training to do these roles and more.

The poison used is Pindone on carrots. There is an antidote for this poison which is Vitamin K1 available at all vets. Unrestrained pets may be at risk if they eat poisoned carrots, or rabbits. Contractors will inspect the area daily to remove rabbits. For more details regarding the areas being baited please contact Council’s Environment Department on 9249 4000.

12483622-CG09-21

ROOM FOR RENT Bacchus Marsh, close to train station, furnished room, $180 per week, 2 weeks bond required. Call Ronald: 5367 4410.

General Notices

Real Estate

section of Network Classifieds.

V Auto Services/ Repair

WE PAY

$250 min for Drive-Ins

We are looking for people from a range of backgrounds, particularly people with experience in operating vehicles and supervising teams and offering accelerated advancement opportunities for people with the aptitude and the drive to fast-track their career in aviation.

www.brimbank.vic.gov.au

V To Let

Call or visit us online! networkclassifieds.com.au

AIRLINE BAGGAGE HANDLING AGENTS

The Rabbit Control Program will take place at the following locations:

Any car just bring it to 5 Holcourt Rd Laverton or we can tow away & still give you $200 min. We also buy vans, min $400

Swissport has been committed to delivering safe and high-quality services in Australia since 1992. If you want to be part of Swissport’s growth in Australia and take part in the nation’s recovery from COVID, as our border restrictions are removed and the industry ramps up, there has never been a better time to join the Swissport team.

Ring Robert

0417 012 961 LMCT9297

V Wrecking

Looking for an exciting new challenge?

section of Network Classifieds.

Employment

If this sounds like you, and you’re looking for a new challenge, rewarding new career, lots of training and development opportunities, then don’t miss out

FREE CAR REMOVAL

APPLY NOW!

Pay up to $500 for most cars Dead or Alive

www.swissport.com.au/work-with-us/

LMCT 10268W

SITUATION VACANT

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12415686-CG16-19

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The Melton City Council has prepared Amendment C170 to the Melton Planning Scheme. The amendment proposes to implement the findings of the Development Plan Overlay Review January 2019 which recommends eight of Council’s 16 existing DPO Schedules be removed either partially or in their entirety as they are no longer an appropriate planning control, given the development that has occurred. The amendment applies to significant parts of the Municipality within the suburbs of Brookfield, Burnside, Burnside Heights, Caroline Springs, Hillside, Ravenhall, Taylors Hill and Truganina. You may inspect the Amendment, any documents that support the Amendment and the explanatory report about the Amendment, free of charge, online: at the Melton City Council website, www.melton.vic.gov.au/planningschemeamendments; and at the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning website, www.delwp.vic.gov.au/public-inspection Any person who may be affected by the Amendment may make a submission to the planning authority about the Amendment. Submissions must be made in writing giving the submitter’s name and contact address, clearly stating the grounds on which the Amendment is supported or opposed and indicating what changes (if any) the submitter wishes to make. Name and contact details of submitters are required for Council to consider submissions and to notify such persons of the opportunity to attend Council meetings and any public hearing held to consider submissions. The closing date for submissions is Wednesday 7 April 2021. A submission must be sent to the Manager City Design and Strategy, Melton City Council, PO Box 21, Melton 3337, or via email to citysupport@melton.vic.gov.au The planning authority must make a copy of every submission available at its office and/or on its website for any person to inspect, free of charge, for two months after the Amendment comes into operation or lapses.

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29 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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Heading in the right direction

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring Jeep Compass has been on sale on-and-off in Australia since 2007 when the iconic American company finally realised that 4WD lookalikes, then being called SUVs, were becoming increasing popular and often being bought in place of conventional passenger cars. Shortly after its launch, Compass was joined by a second compact Jeep SUV called Patriot. Its more rugged looks proved more appealing than the softer Compass which quietly slipped from the Australian import list at the end of 2009. Compass returned in 2012 and now has the compact Jeep SUV field to itself following the withdrawal of Patriot in late 2017 when the current, third-generation version was launched. The latest update, in January 2020, saw a couple of name changes with the previous entry-level Sport now called Night Eagle and the higher-spec Longitude now S-Limited. The four-model range is completed with the Limited and Trailhawk variants.

Engines / tranmissions Night Eagle, Limited and S-Limited are powered by 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol with outputs of 129 kW and 229 Nm. Trailhawk uses a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel with slightly less power (125 kW) but significantly more (350 Nm) of torque. Night Eagle is front-wheel drive with a six-speed automatic transmission while the other three variants are driven by all four wheels with nine-speed auto. Jeep, in line with its more serious off-road credential, tags the Trailhawk as a 4x4 rather than AWD. Off-road credentials with Trailhawk include raised ride height and steeper approach, ramp-over and departure angles. Traction in Trailhawk is through the Jeep Active Drive Low 4WD system, with Rock mode added to its Selec-Terrain control.

Styling With so many of its competitors going for sweeping lines and angles it is refreshing to see that, in true Jeep fashion, Compass sticks closer to the utility part of the SUV name. A non-negotiable feature of all Jeep designs is the seven-slot grille. The much smaller version in Compass works really well with the wide

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Compass Night Eagle 2.4-litre petrol FWD: $36,950 Compass Limited 2.4-litre petrol AWD: $42,950 Compass S-Limited 2.4-litre petrol AWD: $45,950 Compass Trailhawk 2.0-litre turbo-diesel 4WD: $49,450

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Jeep dealer for drive-away prices. Jeep Compass Night Eagle is an attractive and capable small SUV. (Pictures: Supplied)

stance of this latest version. In profile, Compass styling looks very much like a smaller version of its larger Cherokee and Grand Cherokee siblings. The Night Eagle which we tested comes standard with an attractive black painted roof and black 18-inch alloy wheels as well as an optional ($1950) dual-pane panoramic sunroof.

Interior There’s a feeling of quality inside the Compass that wasn’t always there. The cabin feels airy and light too which is often difficult to accomplish in a SUV of this size. Front headroom is good despite the optional sunroof in our test car and there’s space in the back to seat a couple of relatively tall adults. There are air vents and USB ports in the rear. Storage space is pretty good. There’s no flat area between the front seats although there is a convenient phone-size alcove at the bottom of the dashboard. There’s also a useful storage box under the front passenger seat which can be accessed by tumbling the base of the seat forward. Perfect for keeping prying outside eyes away from secure items. The 438-litre is one of the biggest in the class and is well shaped with space for a couple of decent-sized suitcases.

Additional features across the range now include autonomous emergency warning and braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic detection, reversing camera, tyre pressure monitoring, trailer sway control, rear parking sensors, hill hold control and two Isofix child seat mountings. The Limited and S-Limited variants add all-wheel drive, front and rear parking sensors, parallel and perpendicular park assist, automatic high beam, adaptive cruise control and disconnecting rear axle. The off-road focused Trailhawk uses an enhanced 4x4 system, off-road suspension, hill descent control, tow hooks and underbody skid plates. It also gets a full-size spare wheel; the other variants have space savers.

Infotainment All models use the Jeep Uconnect system displayed on an 8.4-inch touchscreen monitor with satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard in all models. Apart from the usual phone and audio features Bluetooth provides integrated voice control commands. Compass Night Eagle gets a six-speaker audio system, the higher spec models step up to a premium BeatsAudio nine-speaker package that includes a subwoofer.

Safety Jeep Compass gets the now-expected five-start ANCAP rating starting with seven airbags, including one for the driver’s knees, enhanced ABS brakes and stability program.

30 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

Driving Getting into and out of Compass isn’t difficult and, unlike some of its small SUV rivals in this small SUV market the front seats are large,

comfortable and with low but supportive bolsters. They proved ideal for a couple of relaxing longish trips that we made. Although there is keyless entry, start-up is through the rare nowadays key-in-ignition method, something that we actually still prefer. There’s excellent visibility in all directions, helped rearwards by a lower headrest in the centre seat. Although nothing exciting, the 2.4-litre petrol engine is more than adequate around town and for motorway cruising. Out on the rural terrain it needed plenty of revs to climb steepish hills and any fast overtaking needed a fair but of preparation. There’s a nice balance between handling and ride comfort and it settled quickly after hitting the occasional pothole. Steering is predictable and responsive. Factory-tested fuel consumption is listed at 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres. We averaged 9.4 L/100 km during our test.

Summing up Jeep Compass is a small SUV with big promise. More than just a far cry from the vehicle it is replacing, its all-round performance and much improved interior makes for a classy act. In an important step forward for those potential buyers concerned about Jeep reliability the company now provides a five-year standard warranty although, disappointingly, the warranty distance remains at 100,000 km warranty.

SPORT Young stars make grade By Michaela Meade Four junior players from the Broadmeadows Basketball Association have been selected for Basketball Victoria’s State Development Program. The program is the first step for players who want to represent Victoria or join an Australian junior representative team. The program will be run at Broadmeadows for athletes from Melbourne’s north-west. Broadmeadows Basketball Association’s Anastasia Gak, Sarah Portlock, Scarlett Robinson and Zachary Thomas said they were excited to begin the training sessions. Sarah described the tryout process as daunting. “When we arrived there I was definitely nervous, because I didn’t know what was involved,” she said. “I was also very excited

Anastasia, Sarah, Scarlett and Zachary. (Supplied)

because it is just a great opportunity to meet other girls [with] the same passion for basketball, and develop my basketball skills. “I’m excited to have the opportunity to improve my basketball.”

Jets sign key duo The Sunbury Jets have announced the return of two of their biggest stars for the upcoming Big V women’s championship season. The Jets last week announced that Orla O’Reilly and Jacinta Beckley would take to the court this season. O’Reilly has been a star for the Jets, and the competition, in her three seasons at the club, having been named an all-star each year. She was also the league grand final most valuable player in 2018. O’Reilly said she was excited to get back on the court following a year off after the birth of her first child. “I am thrilled to be back with Sunbury for another season,” she said. “After a year away from basketball, it’s so great to be back on the court with the girls. “I’m excited to get started and am looking forward to be competing for another championship.” Coach John White said O’Reilly brings an unparalleled level of creativity and excitement to the team. “Orla’s ability to score when needed, her craftiness on and off the ball, and her ability to facilitate and bring others into the game are impressive but what stands out, even more, is that she is a professional and she lives it. “Her leadership and approach to the game will only help our group grow.” Beckley is another key piece of the puzzle for the Jets. She was part of the team in 2019 and was due to suit up for the 2020 season before it was cancelled. Beckley returned to New Zealand during lockdown and said she was excited to get back to Sunbury after so long away. White said he was ecstatic when he heard that Beckley was keen to return. “Having Jacinta back at the Jets will bring more IQ and stability to our frontcourt, on top of that, she’s been working hard back home and is in amazing shape so I can’t wait to see what the next level of her game look likes.” The Jets kick off their season at home on March 4 against Chelsea. Tara Murray

Anastasia said she was surprised when she found out she had been selected for the program. “I had to read the letter a couple of times for it to sink in.” Zachary said he set himself the goal of being selected for the program after the COVID-19 pandemic stopped the 2020 program. “I worked really hard to keep myself fit and to keep my skills up,” Zachary said. “Getting into the program is an incredible opportunity … I get to work with some of the best basketball coaches in Victoria. “Basketball and education go together for me, so it would be great if basketball could help to open up the possibility of studying at a college in the USA.” Scarlett also hopes the program could lead to playing overseas. “I hope to one day play college basketball in America and then see where it takes me from there,” she said.

New Melton Thoroughbreds coach Lucas Bourke. (Supplied)

Bourke returns to Melton New Melton Thoroughbreds men’s coach Lucas Bourke asked many people for help in his previous stint as president at the club. So when the club asked him to step up and take on the role as the men’s Big V coach weeks out from the upcoming season, he was happy to oblige. Bourke’s appointment follows playing coach Chris Johnson signing a deal to play in the Western Australian NBL1 season. “It’s a different place these days,” Bourke said. “I was already back at the club this year coaching my son. It was nice to be in the position to help out. “I then took on the men’s coaching role this season, as I saw that was what the club needed. “When I was president I asked people to step up and when people asked me to, I felt I had to.” Bourke coached at Ballarat and Keilor in his four years away from the club and has coached junior teams for more than 20 years. He has coached both Vic Metro and Vic Country teams to junior state titles. He said while coaching senior teams hadn’t been his ambition, he was excited to take on the role. Bourke has a challenge ahead of him – round one gets under way on March 13. He is still putting a squad together, reaching out to some new and old faces to try and complete the group. Bourke said the loss of Johnson was massive, as there was no one in the squad who could step up in that position. “We’re looking to bring in some new talent,” he said. “We’re looking to make some small improvements to the roster before the season starts. “There’s some old faces, some smart guys, so hopefully that will count for a bit.” Former division 2 competition most valuable player Jeff Crowe returns to the club. Crowe, a championship player with the club, has more recently played with Keilor Thunder. Sam Byron is another key player in the squad. After an interrupted pre-season, Bourke said the biggest focus now was building for the future. “The expectations for this year are about building the program back up and creating a strong foundation. “That’s the number one goal. “If we’re in a position to push for finals, then we’ll look to push for them.” The Thoroughbreds kick off their season at home against Wangaratta North East [formally NE Bushrangers] on March 13. Tara Murray

Orla O’Reilly in action. (Shawn Smits) 31 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 23 February, 2021

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