Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 15th February 2022

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15 FEBRUARY, 2022

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Chop for charity After growing his hair for two-and-a-half years, 10-year-old Noah decided it was time to cut it off for something different. The Hillside resident decided that while he didn’t want his hair anymore, it could help other people. “I just felt like I wanted to get it cut off,” he said. “My mum asked me if I wanted to donate my hair and I decided I wanted to.” His hair will be used for a wig, while he’s been raising money for the Make A Wish Foundation. Noah decided that he wanted to give to children who really needed it. As of last Thursday, he had raised more than $1000 beating his initial goal of $200. “I just want to see how much I can get now.” Noah had his hair cut on Saturday, but is already planning to grow it again and raise more money to help others. To donate: http://ow.ly/1xmK50HRlNF Tara Murray

Noah cut his hair for charity. Inset: Noah with his new short hairstyle. (Damjan Janevski) 267488

Waste agreement a first By Sarah Oliver Melton council will cease sending household waste to Ravenhall tip in two years after agreeing to send the city’s rubbish to a waste to energy plant in Laverton. Council said the agreement, with Recovered Energy Australia and Solo Resource Recovery, is the first of its kind in Victoria. Under the agreement, council will transition away from sending waste to landfill, with rubbish instead to be processed at the waste to energy plant and converted into electricity.

Council estimates that about 50,000 tonnes of waste will be diverted from landfill each year. It said the reduction in carbon dioxide emissions (Co2) would be the equivalent to planting one million trees. Council said it was one of a number of organisations planning to use the plant, which is expected to begin operating in mid-2024. Mayor Goran Kesic said council was looking forward to implementing the innovative process. “We’re proud to transition away from landfill and lead the way as one of the first

councils in Victoria to process kerbside waste at a waste-to-energy facility,” Cr Kesic said. “This alternative method will help manage waste costs and meet emissions reduction targets. “We look forward to seeing this facility fully operational in the coming years. This is about creating a greener future and providing greater cost certainty around waste processing.” Cr Kesic said ratepayers would also benefit from the change. “This is good news for managing costs. When compared to the rising costs of the state government’s landfill levy, it’s predicted this

will provide ratepayers with a cost benefit in the long-term, as well as an environmental benefit,” he said. “Like our existing waste disposal method, this is charged by volume meaning our residents can influence the cost by recycling and composting more. “We want to continue to work with our residents to reduce the amount of rubbish going into the red bin. It’s the best way to further pass on cost benefits to ratepayers, and initiatives like our food and garden organics disposal are helping our community to achieve this.”

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Language school knocked back By Sarah Oliver An ethnic group’s application to use a property it already owns for a language school has been rejected by Melton council. The Hazara Solidarity Community of Western Melbourne purchased a property in Caroline Springs with the intention of using it for general gatherings and for a language school, however the plans were met with criticism from the community. A report to a Melton council meeting on

February 7 said council had received 24 objections to the application, centred around concerns the proposal was inappropriate for a residential street. Residents were also concerned that traffic in the cul-de-sac would increase if the application was approved. In its application, the group said there would be no more than 30 people on the property at any given time. However, residents raised concerns that the attendance cap could not be guaranteed.

Residents also felt there was no guarantee that music wouldn’t be played on the property Council statutory planning co-ordinator Steve Finlay said council officers told the group early on in the application process of their concerns and advised the group not to go ahead with the application. “At the time, officers said it’s a good use, but it’s just an inappropriate site for the use and we’re happy to work with them to find a more appropriate site for the particular land use,” Mr Finlay said.

Councillors voted to refuse the application because it was not consistent with the planning of residential areas and it would “have a detrimental impact on the residential amenity of neighbouring residents”. Council has offered to work with the group to find a more appropriate site. The Hazara Solidarity Community of Western Melbourne was contacted for comment.

Crime briefs Murder charges dropped A Melton man is one of two men who have had murder charges related to the death of a Bell Post Hill teenager dropped, after pleading guilty to lesser charges. On Thursday, February 4, Alith Wal, 19, and Norlane man Nyal Mainyal, 21, faced the Supreme Court where they pleaded guilty to intentionally causing injury and affray, but had murder charges dropped. They were charged with murder, along with a 17-year-old boy, last year over the death of 18-year-old Mohammad Mohammadi.

Operation Omni arrives in Melton Five people were arrested and more than 620 people searched by police at Melton train station on Wednesday, February 9, as part of an operation targeting weapons offences. The operation resulted in five arrests, five Infringement Notices, 164 vehicle checks and over 620 people searched.

Police car pursuit in Melton

LJ on his Husqvarna TC 65. (Supplied)

Generosity gets LJ back on track When nine-year-old LJ last competed at the Arenacross in Bacchus Marsh, a jam-packed weekend of Motocross and Supercross competitions at the end of January, he never expected to wake up to his motorbike gone. In the early hours of Sunday, January 30, it is believed someone stole the Husqvarna TC 65. LJ, who first started riding when he was six after getting a bike from Santa for Christmas,

4 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 February, 2022

said the Arenacross race was going well. “… Until my bike got stolen,” he said. “I finished all my races, packed up and … when I woke up my bike was stolen.” Josh, LJ’s dad, took him to the police station to report the theft. “We did a lot of searching ourselves, looking on back roads and so forth,” Josh said. But the search was unsuccessful. “I don’t feel happy at all about it,” LJ said.

A Go Fund Me page was set up by LJ’s racing friend, Kai, which has a goal of $7500 to replace the bike. “He’s had a lot of support from the motocross community which has been wonderful,” Josh said. “You never expect people to show support in that way and when it does happen, it’s very humbling. It makes you feel very good about the world you live in.”

A man has been charged after he failed to stop for police while driving an alleged stolen vehicle in Melton on Monday, February 7. A woman whose car was allegedly stolen from Weir Views on the night of Sunday, February 6, called triple-0 after spotting the vehicle at a car wash on Barnes Road. After a pursuit, the driver pulled over on Karo Court in Melton and fled on foot. The 29-year-old Mount Clear man was arrested without shortly after.

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Melton drivers charge ahead By Sarah Oliver Two free electric vehicle charging stations have been installed at Cobblebank Indoor Stadium in Melton, providing residents and visitors with a convenient location to recharge their cars. The charging stations, a 22 kilowatts AC dual port charger and a 25 kilowatts DC fast charger, are compatible with all electric vehicles and models, and allow up to three vehicles to charge at one time. Melton mayor Goran Kesic said with more

people opting for electric vehicles, the charging stations provided the infrastructure to support these environmentally friendly choices. “The installation of the charging stations at Cobblebank Indoor Stadium is a win for residents and visitors alike,” Cr Kesic said. “The DC fast charger can add up to 150 kilometres extra range in an hour’s charge, while the AC charger will better suit those who are going to be at the stadium over a longer period.” The charging stations are powered by about 400 solar panels on the roof of the stadium generating 99 kilowatts of solar power.

The stadium also has a 100 per cent renewable electricity contract in place, making the stadium one of the most sustainable buildings within the Melton. Electric vehicles can be charged using the Chargefox app, which can be downloaded from app stores. Allocated bays at the stadium are clearly marked for charging only and instructions for use are on the chargers. Mayor Goran Kesic and deputy mayor Lara Carli. (Supplied)

Five projects get funds Melton council has received a $6.46 million funding boost from the latest round of the state government’s Growing Suburbs Fund (GSF). The council has secured funding for five new projects, including Cobblebank Community Services Hub, Earlington Square Reserve Upgrade, the Parkway Reserve Upgrade, Navan Park Reserve Upgrade and Bridge Road Recreation Reserve Upgrade stage two. The $1.62 million upgrade of Navan Park will improve connectivity and amenity throughout the park by improving tree planting, natural play areas, and amenities around the lake. This will enhance the range of passive and recreation facility offerings for all members of our diverse community. Melton mayor Goran Kesic said the council was delighted with the state government’s announcement and contribution to these exciting projects. “This funding means that vital community

infrastructure including the redevelopment of existing recreation reserves, construction of new leisure infrastructure at Bridge Road, and the delivery of the much-needed Cobblebank Community Services Hub, will get off the ground sooner,” Cr Kesic said. “This is an outstanding result for our community and I’m looking forward to seeing all these projects come to life. “On behalf of vouncil, I extend my thanks to the state government for their ongoing support. “The Victorian government’s Growing Suburbs Fund is a vital program that supports the critical delivery of infrastructure and responds to the pressures experienced by fast-growing and interface outer suburban areas like the City of Melton. “We certainly hope to see it continue long into the future.” Melton City Council chief executive Roslyn Wai, Melton MP Steve McGhie, and mayor Goran Kesic

Sarah Oliver

(Supplied)

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Ambulance wait times increase By Sarah Oliver Ambulance response times continue to worsen in Melton and Moorabool, according to the latest data from Ambulance Victoria. The latest performance data for the three months to December, 2021, shows the health system is still under significant pressure from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Melton, the average response time for code one calls increased to 17 minutes and 36 seconds between October and December, 2021, compared to 15 minutes and four

seconds in the three months prior. There were 2905 calls made compared to 2275 in the previous three months. Moorabool’s response time also increased, rising 20 minutes and one second compared to 17 minutes and 6 seconds. Ambulance Victoria metro regional director Michael Georgiou said the record demand in Melton was partly caused by a large number of confirmed and suspected COVID-19 patients requiring transport to hospital, along with significant growth in the area. “In addition to an increase in demand for

care, our performance in Melton has been impacted by time spent offloading these patients at health services along with the extra infection control requirements we have in place to keep our people and patients safe, such as wearing PPE and cleaning our ambulances,” Mr Georgiou said. “We are doing everything possible to relieve pressure in the system and get more paramedics back on the road and to patients quicker. While there are signs that infection rates are slowing, we remain very busy and continue to ask all community

members to help us by saving tripl-0 (000) for emergencies.” Ambulance Victoria is continuing to invest in new initiatives to meet the needs of the growing Melton municipality. “Last year, we added extra crews at Ravenhall and Hillside to better meet increasing demand during the busiest periods at these branches,” Mr Georgiou said “This will make a real difference to our busy paramedics who are dealing with an extraordinary workload, but also for patients during these peak times.”

A faithful milestone The gold rush, an infamous bushranger, two world wars and a period of debt – the Melton Christ Church Anglican Parish celebrated it all and much more on Sunday, February 13, marking 150 years of service. Reverend Neil Taylor took on his role the same day the state went into lockdown in 2020 and quickly learnt to pivot. As with changes throughout the church’s history, Mr Taylor brought services to his congregation online, including the installation of two large TVs to support his sermons. The updated building with live-streaming is a far cry from what the church was in its hay-day. Parish historian Carolyn MacGavin has done extensive research on the church and the building. Although the site of the church on Unitt Street is the same, the building was destroyed in the late 1980s due to being unsafe. The land was first set aside for the church in 1851 with the church gradually being built until 1867 when they were out of funds and

without a roof. “When more money was found, it was completed, ready for an opening service in January 1869,” Ms MacGavin wrote. One of the most bizarre moments in the church’s history is the four services conducted by bushranger Captain Moonlite, AKA Lay Preacher, who’s real name was Andrew George Scott. He then made a “sudden departure” to Sydney. The current building finished construction in 1985, but not without causing some debt. “Sometime in 1983 this parish went into debt to the tune of $228,404,” Ms MacGavin wrote. “Thirty-eight years later the debt was paid off.” An original stained glass window from 1903 still resides in the church, which was created by those who made some of the windows in St Paul’s Cathedral. “After 150 years on this site, we look for many more years yet to serve,” Mr Taylor said.

Reverend Neil Taylor with Susan Butcher and Emily Davie.

(Damjan Janevski) 267621

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New year 12 test The General Achievement Test (GAT) will look different for Melton and Moorabool VCE and VCAL students this year with students’ literacy and numeracy skills measured against new standards in a reformed test. The changes have been made to explicitly report students’ literacy and numeracy scores in order to bring the Victorian GAT in line with similar tests in other states and territories. The test will be held at the beginning of September this year as opposed to the usual date in June.

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A dad with his baby during Splash Time

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Babies make a splash

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Melton Waves Leisure Centre will be the host of monthly free swimming lessons for infants and their parents. Splash Time is a sensory based program purposely designed to introduce infants and their parents to the aquatic environment in a fun, social and nurturing environment. With mum or dad joining their child in the water and guided by two fully qualified swim instructors, Splash Time is an educational program structured around developing parental aquatic skills and building experience in handling a baby in water. Parents will be given direction on how to gradually expose their baby to water for the first time, in a controlled environment and at their own pace. The lessons are designed to help babies feel

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safe and fully supported in the water as the three foundation holds including front hold, side and back hold are each demonstrated and practised during the session. The program is also designed to encourage parents to have fun and promotes one-on-one bonding with their child in a social aquatic ‘playgroup’ environment. A new environment and new physical activity will also result in the babies being relaxed and sleeping well after class. The next session will be held on March 3 and continue on the first Wednesday of each month until December. Details: splashtime.com.au Sarah Oliver

The state government is providing a boost for regional builders during the pandemic through public housing works that have created thousands of local jobs right across the state. Almost $500 million has been invested to upgrade and maintain more than 23,000 social housing units across Victoria and build 168 new social housing dwellings. This funding, combined with the $5.3 billion Big Housing Build, has helped keep the building and construction sector humming during the pandemic.

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8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 February, 2022

Know your rights. Learn more about the campaign, the legal challenge, the EES pr speak with your local MP's. Bacchus Marsh / Darley: Monday, February 28th 7:00pm – Bacchus Marsh Public Hall. 207 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh Ballan: Tuesday, March 1st 7:00pm – Ballan Lawn Bowls Club. 5 Cowie Street, Ballan (Free BBQ) Springbank: Wednesday, 2nd March 7:00pm – Springbank Football Club, Ormond Road, Wallace (Free BBQ) Melton: Thursday, March 3rd 7:00pm – Melton Community Hall. 238 High St, Melton

Star Weekly is an independently owned company which prides itself on its long history of community experience but also its investment in the future. The successful applicant will need to possess good people skills to enable them to meet with local businesses to sell solutions through our advertising platforms to help promote their business. Sales skills/experience: • Ability to maintain existing professional relationships and to create new ones • Ability to meet defined sales and activity targets • Excellent listening skills • Accuracy and attention to detail • Effective time management to meet deadlines • Ability to operate in a team • Demonstrates initiative and flexibility • Effective oral and written communication Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme. Send your application letter and resume to: Mandy Clark Group Advertising Sales Manager mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au

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No compensation plans: airport By Tara Murray There are no plans to compensate residents affected by changed flight paths due to a third runway at Melbourne Airport. The airport recently released its draft master plan and major development plan which include the construction of a third runway, which will run north-south. The new runway is expected to take four to five years to build in a staged process, and will be located 1.3 kilometres from the existing south-west runway. It will be 3000-metres long and will result in the shortening of the east-west runway and changes to flight paths.

There will be three different ways the runways can be used, with both arrivals and departures to use the new runway. The plans have left many Brimbank residents devastated about the possible impacts on their lives. Some Brimbank residents will have more than 200 planes a day flying over their homes. With many Brimbank and Bulla residents worried about increased flights, questions about compensation have been raised. Some residents would like double glazed windows and help sound proofing their houses. Melbourne Airport chief of infrastructure Simon Gandy said there are no plans for compensation. “Melbourne Airport opened in 1970 with

two runways, and a plan for two more,” he said. “The proposed parallel north-south runway is in line with the hashtag layout that has been part of approved airport plans since 1990 (before privatisation). “We understand residents want certainty about what options might be available to them, and at this very early stage in the runway approval process, there are no plans for compensation.” Mr Gandy said if they were to look at compensation in the future, that it would be a matter for the airport to determine in partnership with other stakeholders, including the Federal Government, and would likely take the form of assistance with noise attenuation

measures such as installation of double glazing or insulation. Mr Gandy said no compensation for changed flight paths and impacts to residents had been provided before. He said while some other airports had offered compenstation, Melbourne Airport was in a different position. “Compensation schemes have been established in Sydney and Adelaide for properties within defined areas, for defined periods of time,” he said. “However it should be noted that both those airports are much closer to major residential areas than Melbourne.” To have your say on the airport plans: https:// caportal.com.au/melair/virtual.

Offering hope to others Point Cook’s Christian Rechichi says that his own journey with mental health has inspired him to fundraise for Beyond Blue during February. Mr Rechichi is participating in the Febfast campaign, for which he is giving up alcohol until February 28, in return for donations towards Beyond Blue. He is aiming to raise a $300 for the foundation. Febfast, run annually by the Youth Support and Advocacy Service (YSAS), raises funds to support young people facing drugs, alcohol or mental health issues. Mr Rechichi, who is studying to become a doctor, said that he has been experiencing mental health issues for the past five years “Luckily I had a lot of support,” he said. “Truth is, not a lot of people are that lucky.” Mr Rechichi said that as a child, he also acted

as an “anchor” for a friend who was facing their own struggle with mental health. “Beyond Blue is such a marvellous foundation and it helps those who may not feel like they have that support,” he said. “As a child suffering from undiscovered mental health in the past, it is extremely hard to speak up and if Beyond Blue had more publicity/funding, they could prevent more trauma from surfacing.” Mr Rechichi said that although February was already underway, he would encourage other people to join Febfast. “If you are considering doing some charity work, this is your sign,” he said. “It could be Beyond Blue or maybe even something that resonates closer to yourself. “Help people that need it more than us - put some good out in the world.”

Christian Rechichi.

(Damjan Janevski) 267210

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15 February 2022

STAY INFORMED

Mayor’s message Cr Goran Kesic

Council services and facilities: melton.vic.gov.au/COVID19 Quickly and easily connect with us online: melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

Jobs, economy and roads We’ve outlined local jobs creation and economic recovery as the key focus of our submissions to the State and Federal budgets. Our list of key priorities which we need the State and Federal governments to fund include construction of a freight terminal in the west, fully funding Melton Hospital, upgrades to major roads including the Western Highway and Melton Highway, the Outer Metropolitan Ring project, electrification of the Melton Line, higher education, and more. Partnering with the State and Federal governments on these major projects will help create 120,000 jobs and return $19 billion annually to the economy. In recently years, the governments have invested in key projects in our city, and it’s critical that these partnerships continue as we become Melbourne’s fastest growing municipality. You can find out more about what we’re advocating for at melton.vic.gov.au/advocacy

Take a class Melton Learning’s programs have returned to our community facilities for term 1, including yoga, zumba, cooking, music and children’s activities. See what’s on offer and book your place at meltonlearning.com.au

I’m delighted to tell you that we’ve received $6.46 million from the State Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund to put towards five new projects.

This will help manage waste costs for ratepayers, and each year it will divert about 50,000 tonnes of waste from landfill.

New waste-toenergy process We’re introducing a new waste processing method that will benefit the environment and ratepayers. Instead of sending household waste to landfill, we’ll send it to a facility that will convert it into electricity.

We’ll implement this at a new facility in Laverton from mid-2024, replacing the need to send kerbside waste to Ravenhall once we transition to this new service.

We have a free one-on-one support service for City of Melton residents who need help finding work. Visit melton.vic.gov.au/jobadvocates

Coburn Ward with Cr Bob Turner

News that both the Labor and Liberal parties have committed to building the Melton Hospital was welcomed by Council and the community alike. It’s been a long time coming, and it’s a thrill knowing no matter who gets elected in November, our much-needed hospital will become a long-awaited reality. Council also recently received a $4 million funding boost from the Victorian Government, through their Growing Suburbs Fund, to construct the Cobblebank Community Services Hub, a $16.91 million allied health, education, and social services facility. We also received over $1.36 million to help upgrade Navan Park Recreation Reserve, and construct Stage 2 of Bridge Road Recreation Reserve. Fantastic outcomes for our community.

This generous funding, together with significant Council contributions, will ensure these projects will get off the ground sooner. Of course, we continue to advocate to the State and Federal governments for other key infrastructure needs across our city, including major projects like fully funding the Melton Hospital and major road upgrades, and I will keep you updated on any progress.

Job seeker support

It’s only February, and already 2022 is shaping up to be a stellar year for our city.

We’ve secured funding for a community services hub at Cobblebank which will attract allied health, education and social services; and for stage two of the Bridge Road Recreation Reserve; as well as upgrades to Earlington Square Reserve, The Parkway Reserve, and Navan Park Reserve.

It’s also been a pleasure to see two local shopping strips receive fresh facelifts as part of Council’s Shopfront Renewal Project. Twenty traders in and around Scott Street, Melton, and Staughton Street and Exford Road, Melton South, took part in the program, receiving grants to help bring their shopfronts to life. The results are great, and I hope locals are enjoying the improvements. Finally, I’d like to express my gratitude to past members of the Melton Residents Association that folded recently – another unfortunate COVID casualty. They were active advocates for key infrastructure within our community and served fellow residents well. I am available to meet with residents most Saturday mornings from 9am, by appointment. Please contact Barb McKenzie on 9747 7200 to book a time, or contact me on 0412 584 224 or bob.turner@melton.vic.gov.au

Last week, we also announced a new waste processing method that will convert household waste into electricity and help manage waste costs. In means we will transition away from landfill, diverting about 50,000 tonnes of waste and reducing Co2 emissions that equate to planting one million trees each year. A new facility will be built in Laverton to undertake this process for several organisations, including Melton City Council and is expected to operate from mid-2024. We look forward to seeing this facility fully operational in the coming years. This is about creating a greener future and providing greater cost certainty around waste processing. Please feel free to contact me on 0437 241 436 or goran.kesic@melton.vic.gov.au regarding any Council issues.

Your Councillors – Visit melton.vic.gov.au/councillors to find your ward Councillors and their contact details

Mayor Cr Goran Kesic

Deputy Mayor Cr Lara Carli

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Moira Deeming

A vibrant, safe and liveable City accessible to all 10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 February, 2022

Cr Kathy Majdlik

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

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NEWS

Sex work decriminalised in Vic By Sarah Oliver The decriminalisation of sex work, which was cause for controversy recently in Melton, has now been made law, ensuring sex workers in Victoria have the same protections and recognition as any other worker in the state. The Sex Work Decriminalisation Act 2022 will address persistent discrimination and stigma experienced by sex workers and remove limits on the independence of sex workers to make free and fair choices about their employment. The reforms will also contribute to improved safety and welfare for street-based sex workers. Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Minister Melissa Horne said

every Victorian deserves to feel safe in their workplace. “This is a historical day and a ground-breaking step towards ensuring sex workers receive the same rights as any other employee in the state,” she said. “Sex work is legitimate work and should be regulated through standard business laws. We’ll establish a new regulatory framework and ensure an efficient transition to the new business model.” Workplace Safety Minister Ingrid Stitt said: “Decriminalising sex work will improve sex workers’ access to services that all workers have the right to – a safe workplace, healthcare and legal help”. Sex workers report their working conditions as unsafe in both the licenced and unlicenced

sectors, including violence in the workplace, deterrents to reporting violence, and a lack of compliance with safe-sex measures. The changes will also allow industry regulation to be managed through existing agencies, such as WorkSafe, the Department of Health and local governments. Decriminalisation of sex work in Victoria will occur in two stages. The first phase is set to commence in May and will remove most offences and criminal penalties for individuals participating in the act of consensual sex work. It will also introduce anti-discrimination protections for sex workers. The second phase is expected to commence in late 2023, and will include the remainder of the reforms, and repeal the sex work licencing

system. In November 2021, some Melton councillors raised concerns with the decriminalisation of sex work and made the decision to run a community campaign to raise awareness for the bill. The community survey is still open for Melton residents to raise any concerns or queries, and closes at the end of March. Feedback will be sent to the state government for review as part of any potential future amendments. Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg was the only councillor who opposed the motion to have a community campaign, saying “ratepayers’ money and council officer time could be better utilised somewhere else”, with the campaign estimated to cost $2000.

Help keep children safe A new recruitment drive has been launched to find people to join Victoria’s child protection workforce to help keep children safe and families strong. The Go Where You’re Needed campaign aims to recruit more than 280 new child protection practitioners across metropolitan and regional Victoria. The campaign showcases the benefits of a career in child protection, which provides many opportunities to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. Brimbank and Melton has been identified as a priority area to secure more child protection workers. Brimbank child protection practitioner Madelaine Logie, who has worked at the Department of Families Fairness and Housing

for five years, said there were plenty of opportunities for people to help others. “I’ve always been passionate about helping others,” she said. “I felt this was a good fit for me working with this community. “Every day is different which is why I love my job so much..We visit families and young people. We do case work and visit schools and work with different services in the community. “We sometimes attend court and it’s fast paced. “I would really encourage anyone to apply for it if they are passionate about it.” Details: https://childprotectionjobs.dffh.vic. gov.au

Madelaine Logie. (Damjan Janevski) 266453_03

Tara Murray

We’re building big near you and there will be transport disruptions As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re upgrading the Sunbury Line, allowing bigger, more modern trains to run more often on the line. We’re also adding new lanes on the M80 to get you home safer and sooner. Train disruptions: Buses replace trains in both directions Sunbury Line

8.45pm to last train each night, 15 to 17 Feb 8.30pm to last train each night, 28 Feb to 2 Mar

North Melbourne to Sunshine

12.45am 19 Feb to 20 Feb 8.30pm 21 Feb to 8.30pm 23 Feb First train to 8.30pm, 24 Feb

Sunshine to Sunbury

8.30pm to last train, 23 Feb 8.30pm 24 Feb to 27 Feb

North Melbourne to Sunbury

Road disruptions: Closed freeways 18 to 21 Feb

Closed Altona-bound between Edgars and Sydney roads

25 to 28 Feb

Closed Greensborough-bound between Sydney and Edgars roads

Find a detailed list of disruptions at bigbuild.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

1528

M80 Ring Road

Tuesday, 15 February, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 11

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Employers like VU graduates Employers have rated Victoria University graduates as the most employable in Australia for a second straight year, according to a new survey. The independent Australian-governmentfunded annual Employer Satisfaction Survey asksdirect managers how satisfied they are with the attributes of recent graduates from Australia’s higher education institutes. The 2021 survey, reporting the views of 3,450 employers, showed VU led the list of 41 institutes in Australia for employability skills, with 92.4 per cent of employers satisfied with

VU graduates compared to a national average of 86.3 per cent for all universities. Employability skills include crucial attributes such as working under pressure, using initiative, being flexible in the workplace, meeting deadlines and understanding the nature of the business. In addition to leading the country’s universities for employability skills, employers rated VU graduates higher than any of the other seven universities in Victoria (Deakin, Federation, La Trobe, Monash, RMIT, Swinburne, Melbourne) in four of the six

attributes assessed in the survey, including overall satisfaction. For foundation skills (general literacy, numeracy and communication) 95.8 per cent of employers were satisfied with VU graduates For collaborative skills (teamwork) 91.7 per cent of employers were satisfied with VU graduates and for technical skills (application of professional and technical knowledge) 95.7 per cent of employers were satisfied with VU graduates. VU Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker said the remarkable results

highlight the impact that VU’s multi-award winning Block Model of teaching and learning, combined with VU’s other Australian-first innovations, such as its First Year College had on the job-readiness of its graduates. “The continuation of these impressive results is a testament to the talents of Victoria University’s teachers and graduates alike,” Professor Shoemaker said. “It gives us a great sense of pride that employers are seeing the same extraordinary potential that we do in our graduates.”

Facelift for shopfronts Melton businesses have been transformed after the recent completion of a Shopfront Revitalisation Project in Scott Street, Melton, and Staughton Street and Exford Road in Melton South. As part of the project, 14 traders received $2000 to help bring their shopfronts back to life. Melton council and the state government jointly funded the project through a $100,000 Neighbourhood Renewal Program grant. Melton mayor Goran Kesic said that it’s critical for council to implement initiatives to drive economic uplift and stimulate consumer confidence within our business precincts. “Council, in every sense of the word, values our local business community, not only for the critical role they play in driving our local economy but also for providing the local jobs our residents are looking for,” Cr Kesic said. “As we navigate our way through the economic challenges brought on by the COVID

pandemic, these revitalised shopping strips will make an important difference to the local community, improving safety and amenity for residents and business owners alike.” Working with a retail design agency, traders brought their visions for shopfront improvement to life by rebranding and upgrading existing infrastructure. Council also made significant improvements to the overall amenity and safety of these areas including streetscaping, lighting, and planting, as well as infrastructure upgrades. “I’m confident this project will make a meaningful difference to the people who frequent these shops and we’re grateful that the Victorian government has partnered with us on this outstanding project,” Cr Kesic said. Cr Kesic and Melton MP Steve McGhie celebrated the completion of this project on Saturday, February 5 at a community event featuring free food from traders, live music and activities for kids.

Mimi Khiang from Mara Chin Asian Grocery & Homeware Store with Steve McGhie and Cr Goran Kesic. (Supplied)

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Volunteers scoop award

Melton kids get a move on

By Alesha Capone A group of volunteers who support asylum seekers and refugees in the western and north-western suburbs has been recognised with a Victorian Multicultural Award for Excellence. West Welcome Wagon received the award for Excellence in Community Response and Recovery, from the Victorian Multicultural Commission. The award was given to acknowledge West Welcome Wagon’s continued support for the community, including the expansion of its Food Program and Emergency Goods Assist project with the RACV, since COVID-19 hit Australia. West Welcome Wagon chairperson Chris Scerri said the award was significant for the group, which was founded in 2013. “It’s our highest award, so we are thrilled that the contributions of our volunteers, donors, partners and supporters is recognised,” he said. Mr Scerri said that before the COVID pandemic began, the organisation – which supports asylum seekers and refugees from Wyndham, Brimbank, Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay, Moonee Valley and as far away as Broadmeadows – was receiving about 10 requests every week for delivery of culturallyappropriate food parcels. However, after contacting the asylum seekers and refugees in its database to see if they needed help with food during the pandemic, demand skyrocketed. “We were delivering between 150 to 200 food bundles per week,” Mr Scerri said. “We were distributing something like seven to eight tonnes of food a month.” He said West Welcome Wagon was grateful for the support it has received from

Brimbank mayor Jasmine Nguyen, West Welcome Wagon chairperson Chris Scerri and Australian Red Cross merchandise team member Bimo Soeharto. (Supplied)

community groups with food, donations and funding, including the RACV, Wyndham Park Community Centre, Jet Foundation Australia, the state government and Wyndham council. Mr Scerri said that out of the 870 households on West Welcome Wagon’s database, about 400 are in Brimbank and 220 in Wyndham. The group’s volunteers collect recycled, good-quality donated items and deliver them to asylum seekers and refugees. West Welcome Wagon assists its clients with household essentials such as bedroom and

NEWS

kitchen furniture, like beds, tables, couches, heaters and rugs. The volunteers also hold regular “Reach Out” days, where about 50 to 60 families are invited to attend a community centre to select items they need from donated food, clothing and toys. Mr Scerri said West Welcome Wagon was looking for more volunteers living in the Wyndham and Brimbank municipalities. Details: www.westwelcomewagon.org.au or email volunteer@westwelcomewagon.org.au

Melton kids will have more opportunities to get moving following the launch of a new active campaign. Melton MP Steve McGhie announced the Get Your Move On campaign in Melton, as well as the latest Active Schools grant recipients on Tuesday, February 2. Melton Specialist School is among the 96 Victorian schools to receive $30,000 through the latest round of Active Schools Grants for the purchase of sports equipment, to upskill physical education teachers and to engage local organisations and clubs to deliver sporting programs. “The Active Schools Grant is a gamechanger for Melton Specialist School helping it with extra sporting programs and initiatives, while enhancing Victoria’s reputation as the education state,” Mr McGhie said. “The Get Your Move On initiative will be really exciting for young people in Melton encouraging them to find something they enjoy doing to get active – just for 15 minutes, four times a day. “Just a small amount of extra physical activity is all it takes to boost the social, physical and mental health of young people – in turn boosting educational outcomes.” Sarah Oliver

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Pricing under the pump

Pricing under the pump By Benjamin Millar

Melton’s petrol prices are coming under greater scrutiny with a local MP vowing to help take action to bring prices in line with neighbouring areas. Melton MP Steve McGhie said the area’s families are being unfairly hit with higher prices than people in neighbouring suburbs, often paying more than 20 cents per litre extra at the pump and spending at least $10 more every time they fill up. “I have had many constituents raise concerns regarding the prices of petrol in Melton being noticeably higher than in other areas,” Mr McGhie said. “I am deeply concerned that families in Melton are paying more than they should be.”

By Benjamin Millar Melton’s petrol prices are coming under greater scrutiny with a local MP vowing to help take action to bring prices in line with neighbouring areas. Melton MP Steve McGhie said the area’s families are being unfairly hit with higher prices than people in neighbouring suburbs, often paying more than 20 cents per litre extra at the pump and spending at least $10 more every time they fill up.

‘‘

strongly encourage residents to complain to the ACCC - Steve McGhie

Fuel prices at Melton petrol stations last week. (Damjan Janevski) 226880_01

He said while there are currently about 1400 BP branded sites across Australia, about three quarters are owned by independent business partners who set their own retail pricing. “When it comes to retail fuel pricing, our aim is to be competitive and attract customers to our sites,” he said. “Generally speaking, the price at the pump is impacted by a number of different factors. In particular, international product prices and competition between service stations in a local

area. There are also other factors including exchange rates, taxes and local operating costs.” On Monday, unleaded 91 pump prices at Melton’s BP, Coles Express and 7/11 Mobil were all at 155.9 cents per litre, according to price comparison website Petrol Spy, with Woolworths Caltex at 168.9. Meanwhile Bacchus Marsh BP, Coles Express and 7/11 Mobil prices were 129.9 cents per litre – 26 cents less per litre – and independent outlets were just 119.9 cents per litre.

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Melton’s Andre Peters said the lack of independent competition makes it easier for the major fuel companies to keep prices inflated well above those in neighbouring suburbs. “Sadly there is no competition in Melton as there are no independents,” he said. “Generally we pay at least 20 cents a litre more at times in Melton.” A BP spokesman said petrol prices at the pump can be impacted by a number of different factors.

12481545-NG07-21

’’

Mr McGhie said he has taken the issue up with the Consumer Affairs Minister Melissa Horne and will be contacting federal Gorton MP Brendan O’Connor to discuss this issue soon, as fuel prices are regulated by the federal government. “In the interim I strongly encourage residents to complain to the ACCC [Australian Competition and Consumer Commission]” he said. The ACCC’s latest petrol monitoring report showed that average petrol prices rose in the 2020 September quarter after a record low earlier in the year. Although the ACCC does not set fuel prices, it does monitor retail fuel prices on a daily basis. A spokesperson said it has the power to investigate where it sees issues of concern. “Where we find sufficient evidence we will take action to protect consumers against misleading and anti-competitive conduct by fuel retailers.” Mr McGhie’s promise to take action was widely welcomed on social media, where some residents said they had seen price differences of up to 50 cents per litre between Melton and Watergardens.

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BEHIND THE NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Exploring the roots of creativity After two years of delays, the Mountain Writers’ Festival has finally released its plans for 2022, with a literary lunch on Saturday, March 26 to preclude the two-day festival which will run in November. The festival’s driving theme will be ‘Place, Story, Nature’ and will explore the connection between the artistic process and the environment. For artists across the shire, this theme has a resonant meaning that has influenced their craft in unique ways. But what is the connection between art and nature? And why is that relationship so pronounced in the Macedon Ranges? Oliver

‘‘

It’s like the whole community feels they have the freedom to express themselves

Lees went digging for the answers, and discovered an artistic lineage that can be traced back to the very first

’’

inhabitants of the land.

- Paul Carter

L

ancefield resident Paul Carter has been interrogating these questions in his own way since he moved to the shire. Arriving in the small town from London in 1986, Mr Carter was immediately captured by his surroundings. “It all came as a complete and absolutely delightful surprise,” Mr Carter said. “I landed on my feet and when I looked around, I realised the population was really talented, and with such varied artistic abilities.” Mr Carter confessed that his move to the shire brought out his own creative urges. He is an author of several books, an 11-time Archibald Prize semi finalist and a garden sculptor. His most recent work, a documentary entitled Lancefield Dreaming, was a passion project of his own design. In it, he attempted to answer a question he had long held about his home: What is the source of Lancefield’s ‘specialness’? His investigation took him back through the history of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung, Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung people, who are believed to have inhabited the area as early as 26,000 years ago. Mr Carter said these communities would convey knowledge and creative expression in what is referred to as Songlines. Passed down between elders through generations, Songlines tied human expression to history, and often, naturally, with reference to the environment. “Before the project I hadn’t appreciated the significance of the local first people’s population,” he said. Mr Carter said this research helped clarify his own infatuation with the Macedon Ranges, and why it made him to explore his own creative urges. “It makes sense. Even today, you can feel that you’re stepping into a very ancient place. “In that feeling there’s a peace to it, and there

Top left: Musician Harry Nanos, screenwriter and director Paul Carter and film editor Jon Nanos all helped bring Lancefield Dreaming to life. Top right: Mountain Writers’ Festival committee members Sonia Orchard, Kathy Bell, Amalia Chilianis, Michelle Scott Tucker, Peter Mews and Kate Crawshaw. Above: Mounting writing. Inset: Aboriginal communities communicated stories down through generations, in what has come to be known as Songlines. (Pictures: Supplied)

becomes the space and time to be creative. It’s like the whole community feels they have the freedom to express themselves.” In the modern context, the importance of the shire’s natural environment, and the need to protect, is also a recurring point of focus for the Macedon Ranges council. In April 2021, the council officially declared a climate emergency. Macedon Ranges is also one of only four council areas in the state to receive recognition under the Distinctive Area and Landscape Act, which affords additional powers to sustain the natural environment. As an author and a board member of the Macedon Ranges Literary Association, Michelle Scott Tucker was excited to jump on the team to organise the Mountain Writers’ Festival. “Given the crucial nature of the environment at the moment, it just seemed like an obvious

14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 February, 2022

thing for us to do, particularly given that we are up here in such a beautiful location,” Ms Scott Tucker said. In April 2021, Ms Scott Tucker led her own mobile writing workshop, which encouraged writers to step away from their desks and into the natural landscape. “Almost anyone writing needs to have some sense of place. So even if you’re writing about other places, your embeddedness in your own landscape can make a difference,” she said. “You connect with the natural element and somehow that acts on your subconscious in a really interesting way to help the story to fly.” Ms Scott Tucker said she believed the pandemic and its associated lockdown measures had helped many to realise how crucial one’s surroundings can be to their mental health. Mountain Writers’ Festival director Sonia

Orchard said she was very excited to welcome “some very big names” to the festival later in the year. “We’re in this good, beautiful environment that writers love, with such an easy day trip from Melbourne, the idea [for the festival] just came naturally,” she said. On March 26, the festival will welcome acclaimed authors Tony Birch, Evelyn Araluen, Tom Griffiths and Sophie Cunningham to the Macedon Wine Collective. Ms Orchard said she hopes the experience will give attendees a taste of what life is like in the Ranges. “I think being at the base of Mt Macedon, I found that incredibly powerful, waking up and looking at that every day,” she said. “I know most people living here can relate to that in some, and it’s something that is very strong in indigenous cultures.”

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COMMUNITY

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

Melton South Community Singers Do you enjoy singing and want to meet fellow singers in your area? Join the Melton South Community Singers at the Melton South Community Centre. Rehearsals are held on the first and third Tuesday of each month. ■ Sue, 0400 082 413

Melton South Knit & Natter All are welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa. ■ 9747 8576

Zonta club meets Zonta is an international organisation bringing women together to support other women. The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton. ■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

Mahjong group Interested in learning to play Mahjong? The game is a tile-based game that is derived from China where it was developed in the 19th century. U3A Melton has a group who play on Tuesdays at 10am. ■ u3amelton.com or 0419 563 016

Melton Men’s Probus Club The Melton Men’s Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63a Reserve Road, from 9.45am. New members and visitors welcome. ■ 9746 0271

Rose Carers Of Maddingley Park The Rose Carers meet Wednesdays from 10am-noon at Maddingley Park, corner of Grant and Taverner streets, Bacchus Marsh, to maintain two beautiful rose gardens. New volunteers are always welcome – with or without experience. ■ Elaine Greenhall, 0418 171 119 or 0400 052 857

This week’s photographer’s choice photo is of Stephen Wainrib and Rita Rosa celebrating Barefoot Cinema’s return to the State Rose Garden, Werribee. (Joe Mastroianni) 266279_06

month 10.30am-12.30pm at Kurunjang Community Centre, 33-35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. New members and carers welcome. ■ Helen, 0409 186 576

players to join its female cricket team. The club, which has had success in recent years, plays in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association on Sundays. ■ http://ow.ly/kLiz50Hsqqj

Keilor probus

Summer series

The Keilor Combined Probus Club is back in business following the lockdowns. The group meets the third Monday of every month at Keilor Pub. New members welcome. ■ Steve, 0408 193 793, or Keith, 0409 494 801

The City of Whittlesea Summer Series arrives at Laurimar Park on Friday, February 18, 5-8pm. There will be a new Makers Market for Doreen including stalls to browse and food outlets to eat from. Bring a picnic or buy something onsite from the food trucks for an evening out with family and friends. At the corner of Hazel Glen Drive and Flaxen Hills Road. ■ https://whittlesea.vic.gov.au/

Senior citizens club

Rotary club

Hanging Rock night walks

The Sunbury Rotary Club meets every Tuesday at the Sunbury Bowling Club from 7pm. ■ sunburyrotary@gmail.com

Let the scent of eucalypt and the calls of native wildlife captivate you on a night time walk at Hanging Rock. The walks are suitable for all ages, but spaces are limited and booking is essential. The ticket price is $25 per adult or $12 per child for two sessions running on Friday, February 18 and Friday, March 25. ■ 5422 0387

Melton Cycling Club Melton Cycling club meets for regular Sunday rides. There are three different riding groups to cater for different abilities starting at 7.30am. The rides finish at Lazy Moe’s for a cuppa. ■ 0403 057 003

Women’s Day

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club

Women’s group

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets the second Tuesday of each month at Melton Country Club at 10am. New members welcome. ■ 0425 705 150

Duke Street Community Centre has set up a women’s social group to give people a place to interact. The group will run every second Friday, from 1pm, as a way to connect with other women in the community in a safe, fun and social way. It will be developed to suit the needs of the participants and will be in a casual setting. ■ 9311 9973

Card Making Melton South Community Centre is holding two card making sessions. Card making for beginners will be held on Monday, February 21, while immediate card making will be held on Monday, March 7. Everything is supplied. ■ 9747 8576

Baking classes Introduction to pastry and baking returns to Melton South Community Centre for term one. Create your own breads, pastries, tarts and desserts in this six-week pre-accredited course, available on Wednesday or Saturday afternoons. Great opportunity for further study or work in the industry. ■ 9747 8576

The Women’s Support Network will be launched at an International Women’s Day event in Brimbank on Tuesday, March 8. All women are welcome to attend. ■ wsn.org.au

The Woodlands Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury meets on the fourth Monday of each month at the Sunbury Bowling Club at 9.45 am. The club is based on fun, friendship and fellowship and enjoys monthly outings, an annual trip away and a lot of fun meetings. ■ Val, 0418 138 214

Football Taylors Lakes Football Club is seeking male and female players for all age groups from under-8s to under-18.5s. To be eligible, children need to be born between July 1, 2003, and April 30, 2015. ■ Julie, 0409 259 389

Deer Park probus The Deer Park Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at The Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, from 10am. New members and visitors welcome. ■ Don, 0409 191 580

Melton Parkinson’s support group The Melton Parkinson’s Support Group meets on the second Thursday of the

Ladies probus

Female cricket Keilor Park Cricket Club is looking for

Toastmasters Sunbury & Macedon Ranges Toastmasters helps its members develop their public speaking, communication and leadership skills. The group meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month, from 7.20-9.30pm, at the Sunbury Senior Citizens Hall. ■ vpm-4185@toastmastersclubs.org

Sunbury Combined Probus Club The Sunbury Combined Probus Club meets every fourth Thursday of the month at the Sunbury Football Social Club at 10am. Visitors and new Members welcome. ■ Carmel, 0416 477 271 Senior citizens are welcome to visit the Sunbury Senior Citizens’ Club on Mondays and Fridays, from 10am-3pm at 8 O’Shannassy Street. A variety of activities are offered – carpet bowls, cards, snooker, darts, board games or just a cup of coffee and a chat. If you’re 55 years or older and would like to meet new people, come along. ■ Frank, 0423 392 884

Hikoi Brothers Hikoi Brothers is for men of all ages in the western suburbs. The group meets fortnightly on Sundays for walks, talking about a range of topics while enjoying the different tracks in Wyndham. ■ http://ow.ly/JpJR50HOVuN

Join Landcare The Friends of Presidents Park meet on the first Thursday of the month, 10am–noon. This is a new conservation group. No prior knowledge required. Meet in the carpark near the river and Shaws Bridge. ■ admin@werribeeriver.org.au

Garden club The Sunbury Garden Club meets on the first Tuesday of every month. There is a guest speaker at each meeting, which starts at 7.30pm at the Sunbury Football Club. ■ Cheryl, 9744 1663

Werribee River lovers required A new family-friendly conservation group is forming to support the Werribee River in central Werribee. The next event is Tuesday, March 8, 5.30–7pm. ■ maryann.weatherill@werribeeriver.org.au Tuesday, 15 February, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 15

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

30 years ago

25 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

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February 12, 2002

February 13, 2007

February 14, 2012

Melton reports between six to eight cases of child abuse a month to the Sunshine office of Community Service Victoria.

Angry Ballan residents say they are being left out in the cold by a lack of community infrastructure in their township.

Thirteen Melton youths have been placed under curfew and charged with 97 offences after a crackdown on gangs by police over the past three weeks.

Fringe farming: and on that farm they had a …

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Illustrations light up library

(Supplied)

An exhibition by one celebrated childre of Australia’s most n’s lighting up Melton book authors is library. Never be late for a a striking series of Parade includes book illustrations by award-winning author and illustra tor Shaun Tan (inset). Featuring a collect ion of illustrations from Tan’s best-kn own including The Arrival picture books , The Red Tree, The Lost Thing, Rules Singing Bones, Cicada of Summer, The and Tales from the Inner City, the showcase celebra tes Tan’s unique approa ch As well as being an to storytelling. acclaimed writer and internationally illustrator, Tan has branched out into theatre design and concept art for films Horton Hears a Who and Pixar’s WALL-E . He directed the Academ y Award-winning short based on his winning film The Lost Thing, picture book of the same name. Never be late for a Parade is showing at Melton Library and Learning Hub until March 7.

Nursing boss ba nned

Benjamin Millar

By Benjamin Millar

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Bacchus Marsh 7/11 Service Station 28 Baccus Marsh Road

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Bacchus Marsh Coles Supermarket Cnr Bennett and Young Street (The Village Shopping Centre)

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Bacchus Marsh My Little Mates Convenience Store 151 Gisborne Road (Darley Plaza Shopping Centre)

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Bacchus Marsh Bacchus Marsh Newsagency 138 Main Street

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Bacchus Marsh Arbee Real Estate 140 Main Street

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Bacchus Marsh Sweeney Real Estate 164 Main Street

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Bacchus Marsh Stockdale and Leggo Real Estate 191 Main Street

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Bacchus Marsh Moorabool Shire 182 Halletts Way

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Bacchus Marsh Milk Bar the Avenue 208 Main Street

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Bacchus Marsh Bacchus Marsh Information Centre 215 Main Street

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Bacchus Marsh The Village Shopping Centre Main Street

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Bacchus Marsh Bellbrook Gardens Country Club 168 Underbank Boulevard

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Ballan Ballan Newsagency 133 Inglis Street Ballan IGA Plus Liquor - Ballan 135 Inglis Street

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Ballan Moorabool Shire - Ballan 15 Stead Street Brookfield Lifestyle Brookfield 111-139 Coburns Road Darley Champions IGA Bacchus Marsh Grey Street Diggers Rest FoodWorks 22 Glitter Road Diggers Rest Diggers Rest Post Office 76 Old Calder Highway Gordon Gordon Post Office 65 Main Street Harkness Foodworks 17 Claret Ash Boulevard Hillside Foodworks 595 Melton Highway Kurunjang Kirkton Drive Milkbar 203 Gisborne - Melton Road Melton E-View Real Estate Suite 10, 3 Alexandra Street Melton Blue Nile Groceries 39 Bakery Square Melton Melton Milkbar 44 Burleigh Road Melton Melton Waves Leisure Centre 206 Coburns Road Melton TAB Corp Park 2 Ferras Road Melton Melton Shire Council Offices 232 High Street Melton Sweeney Real Estate 266 High Street Melton Barry Plant Real Estate 273 High Street Melton Advance Stationers 283 High Street Melton Raine and Horne Real Estate 289 High Street Melton Melton Lotto 293 High Street

The Victorian Civil and Administrativ The director of nursing e The allegations at Djerriwarrh Health Tribunal last week returned a Service during a included inadequ ruling disqualified Ms cluster of perinat ate formal reviews Meek from applyin that education and training al deaths registra at Bacchus Marsh of overall clinica l practic for nursing and g for midwifery tion for a period of Hospital has been perinatal deaths as e and staff and that 10 years. banned from working as they occurred. The ruling been aware of deficien Ms Meek should have a nurse or midwif Ms Meek ceased workin e for a of former follows last year’s disqualification decade. cies in midwifery skills. g at DjHS in 2015 maternity “She failed and surrendered The Nursing and her Little for a 10-year services manager Mary the deficien to take adequate steps to ensure Midwif and midwife in 2016. registration as a nurse cies period ery were identified and Board of during for her failures Austra lia sought a remedied,” the same period. 10-year ban for Julia the tribunal found. Djerriwarrh Health Meek in the wake of reports Services chief executi A 2015 review by identify ing “catastr Presiding VCAT membe professor Euan Wallac ve ophic” identified failings behind a r Wendy Boddison Belinda Scott said while she was e and series of “avoidable” “catastrophic and unable to comment deaths systemic and other adverse unprecedented Hallymembers Pamela Barry and Bernad patient outcomes ette Djerriwarrh on individual practitioners, also found Ms Meek at DjHS obstetric governance failings” with the from 2013 to 2015. has implemented failed to ensure shift by shift presenc services at DjHS during e of a midwife compet the change” across the health service “profound External reviews identifi the period. Ms Meek, 63, faced in foetal surveil ent since 2015. ed that the perinatal “It has robust clinica allegations in the tribuna lance monitoring mortality rate was that she had failed l govern l in birthin ance significantly higher the process g suite. systematic trainin to take adequate the state average and than deliver effectiv g, continued profess es, The tribuna much higher than e systems and process steps to ional be expected for a low would in her role es at DjHS for ensurin l found there was no clear criteria development and strong leaders as director of nursing risk unit. hip that ensures Djerriwarrh g only maternity , which she had the cases suitable held since 2005. is a safe, level of the capacit y of DjHS were accepte to fully-functioning health service secure and There was also found to be inadeq d. of Bacchus Marsh, Melton for the people and Caroline uate Springs,” she said.

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Melton Harcourts Real Estate 306 High Street

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Melton Kurunjang Village Store 51 Kurunjang Drive

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Melton Professionals Real Estate 317 High Street

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Melton Melton Library 31 McKenzie Street

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Melton MGS Grocery Store 358 High Street

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Melton Melton Country Club 28-30 Reserve Road

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Melton Freddy’s Fruit & Veg 393 High Street

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Melton YPA Real Estate - Melton 272274 High Street

Melton Melton Indoor Sports Centre 65 Reserve Road

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Melton Morgans Supa IGA 335-345 High Street

Melton Coles 11 Station Street (Melton Station Square)

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Melton Foodworks Shop 1, 415-429 High Street

Melton Lee Merchants 29 Wallace Square

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Melton Woodgrove Shopping Centre 533-555 High Street

Melton South Station Square Shopping Centre 25 Station Road

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Melton Woolworths Supermarket 523531 High Street (Coburns Shopping Centre)

Melton South Coles Express Shop 1-9 Station Street & Brooklyn Road

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Rockbank Rockbank Newsagency 1157 Leakes Road

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Melton Woolworths Supermarket 533555 High Street (Woodgrove Shopping Centre)

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Melton Coles Supermarket 533-555 High Street (Woodgrove Shopping Centre)

Rockbank Sundowner Rockbank Caravan Park 2057-2083 Western Highway

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Toolern Vale Toolern Vale General Store Lot 23 Diggers Rest Road

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Tuesday, 15 February, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 17

PUZZLES SUDOKU

QUICK CROSSWORD

No. 068

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.

ACROSS

9

easy

7 9 2 1

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

10 11 12 13 14 16 19 20 22 25 26 27 28

medium

2

23 24

Saccharine (5) Native of Iceland (9) Seaweed wrapped rice (5) Brand of microprocessor (7) Domed building (7) Contribute (9) Popular aquarium fish (5) Agreement (9) Pleasure (9) Relate in some way (9) Immediately (2,3,4) Inactivity (7) Blasphemous (7) Member of Central American ancient people (5) Of the nose (5) Ships (5)

No. 068

5 2 3

3 8 7 1 9

1 7 2

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 13 14 15 17 18 21

DECODER

8 9

9 2 4 8 4

DOWN

Hides (5) Relying on or exploiting others (9) 1970s band, — Lake and Palmer (7) Of, or relating to, Tibet (7) Custom (9) Fad (5) Duped (3) Estimates of similarities (11) Artistic representation of a person (11) Idiot boxes (3) Mindless (5) Designers of goods and structures (9) Runner (7) Cleaning scoop (7) An office-worker (9) Waterlily (5)

1 4

No. 068

7 5 1 6 3

1 3

6 hard

8 3 3 6 5 4

5

6

7

8

9

10 11 12 13

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

D W 16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

9-LETTER WORD

4 LETTERS AURA DRUG DYES GASP IONS ISLE MADE MANY MESS MINE PARS PASS RANK ROBS SEES

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”.

E

Today’s Aim: 10 words: Good 15 words: Very good 21 words: Excellent

5 6 4 9 1 7 2 8 3

1 2 7 6 8 3 9 5 4

7 4 3 5 2 1 8 9 6

6 8 1 3 7 9 4 2 5

2 5 9 8 6 4 3 1 7

4 3 2 7 9 5 1 6 8

8 1 5 2 3 6 7 4 9

9 7 6 1 4 8 5 3 2

2 8 9 6 5 1 3 4 7

6 1 3 8 7 4 9 5 2

4 7 1 5 8 3 2 6 9

8 5 6 2 4 9 1 7 3

9 3 2 1 6 7 5 8 4

1 6 4 3 2 8 7 9 5

3 9 8 7 1 5 4 2 6

7 2 5 4 9 6 8 3 1

7 2 8 5 6 1 9 3 4

6 1 5 9 3 4 7 2 8

9 3 4 2 7 8 5 6 1

8 6 9 3 1 5 4 7 2

3 4 7 6 2 9 1 8 5

1 5 2 4 8 7 3 9 6

2 9 1 7 5 6 8 4 3

5 7 3 8 4 2 6 1 9

4 8 6 1 9 3 2 5 7

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

E

P

R

L

H E

M

3 LETTERS ACE AGE AGO AIL APT ASK ASS ATE AWE AYE BRA CHI DEN ERR GAL HEN IDS LSD MRS NIT OKS RED REV SAC TNT USE

A

No. 068

USES WARP ZACS 5 LETTERS ABORT ABOVE ALIAS ANGST APTER ARENA ATLAS AUDIO AWARE BROIL DIGIT DRIER EERIE ENEMA ERASE ERECT

EVERY GAITS GASES HAIRY INANE INTER LATER LEACH LEVEL MIMIC OGLES PARTY PASSE PETER RECAP ROGUE SADLY SALLY SEATS SEDAN SENDS

SHAMS STONE STOVE TENTH TENTS TRAMP ZINCS 6 LETTERS SHRINE TREBLE 7 LETTERS ASSORTS DESPAIR

REREADS SHRINKS STORAGE VERSION 8 LETTERS DEDICATE MURMURED SEVEREST TWANGING 10 LETTERS EVAPORATES TRANSPIRES

ahem, ephemera, EPHEMERAL, hale, hamper, hare, harem, harm, harp, heal, healer, heap, hear, heel, heeler, helm, help, helper, hemp, here, rhea

5 4 7 9 3 2 6 1 8

3 9 8 4 5 2 6 7 1

hard

3

15

medium

2

14

easy

1

MGHQ L P Y F T C N K J

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

U R E A V X S I B Z ODW

2

WORDFIT

18-02-22

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CALL 1300 666 808 Tuesday, 15 February, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 19

SPORTS QUIZ 14. What 2022 Winter Olympic medal did Australian freestyle skier Jakara Anthony win in the women’s moguls?

5. Michelle Kwan, Dorothy Hamill and Kristi Yamaguchi all competed in which sport?

1. Zoi Sadowski Synnott is the first New Zealander to win a what? 2. What new team will join the NRL from 2023 onward?

6. In gridiron, a team fields how many players at any one time?

3. What is the nickname for the Australian men’s ice hockey team?

7. Who is the captain of the Australian women’s cricket team?

4. The AFL Women’s league was established in what year?

8. What two shapes appear on a standard soccer ball pattern?

15. Australia’s Tess Coady won a 2022 Winter Olympic bronze medal in the women’s slopestyle event for what sport? 16. Who are the only two jockeys to win The Everest horse race? 17. 17-year-old Genevieve Beacom became the first female to pitch in an Australian Baseball League game playing for which team?

9. Australia boasts how many former world number one squash players? 10. Who defeated tennis player Bobby Riggs in the famous 'Battle of the Sexes'?

18. What is the name of the anthropomorphic Chinese lantern mascot of the 2022 Winter Paralympics?

11. Which former player was recently appointed interim coach of Australia’s national men’s cricket team?

19. Rugby league great Johnny Raper played in eight consecutive NSWRL grand finals with which club?

12. What kind of animal is Bing Dwen Dwen, the mascot of the 2022 Winter Olympics?

20. Scott Gowans is set to coach which team upon its debut in the 2022/23 AFL Women's season?

13. The 2022 NBA All-Star is set to played in which US city?

21. What nationality is darts player Michael van Gerwen?

Cadel Evans

22. Which former Adelaide Crows midfielder coached Melbourne to the 2021 AFL Premiership?

27. In which year did Australian cyclist Cadel Evans win the Tour de France?

23. Which now defunct Adelaide-based professional rugby league club folded in 1998 after only two seasons?

28. Which sporting activity (one of only five to have featured in every modern Olympic Games) has three disciplines: the foil, the épée and the sabre?

24. On November 25, 2010 (his 26th birthday), which cricketer became the ninth Australian to take a Test hat-trick?

29. Which team won the inaugural AFL Women’s Grand Final?

25. How many F1 races did Mark Webber win in his career?

30. Who took over from Holden as sponsor of the State of Origin series?

26. What is the nickname of the NFL team based in Jacksonville, Florida?

Michelle Kwan 1. Winter Olympic gold medal (women’s snowboard slopestyle) 2. The Redcliffe Dolphins 3. Mighty Roos 4. 2017 5. Figure skating 6. 11 7. Meg Lanning 8. Pentagon and hexagon 9. Seven 10. Billie Jean King 11. Andrew McDonald 12. Giant panda 13. Cleveland, Ohio 14. Gold 15. Snowboarding 16. Glen Boss and Kerrin McEvoy 17. Melbourne Aces 18. Shuey Rhon Rhon 19. St. George Dragons 20. Sydney Swans 21. Dutch 22. Simon Goodwin 23. Adelaide Rams 24. Peter Siddle 25. Nine 26. Jaguars 27. 2011 28. Fencing 29. Adelaide Crows 30. Ampol

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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

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20 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 February, 2022

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STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Cute as a button, Kia Picanto is a great little city runabout.

MOTOR

(Pictures: Supplied)

A ‘spicy’ city runabout from Kia By Ewan Kennedy, Marque Motoring

AT A GLANCE

Google tells us that “Picanto” relates to the Spanish and Italian words “picante/piccante”, meaning “spicy”. The Kia Picanto does have a “spicy” look that could also be called cute. This is one of the smallest and cheapest models on the Australia new car market. However, it does have a fair number of the features that new car buyers are looking for.

MODEL RANGE Picanto S: $15,990 (manual), $17,590 (automatic) Picanto GT-Line: $17,440 (manual), $19,040 (automatic) Picanto GT Turbo: $20,490 (manual)

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Kia dealer for drive-away prices.

Styling The Kia Picanto GT-Line update for 2022 has revised styling of the front and rear bumpers which is intended to see it through until the arrival of the next model that’s anticipated within the year. The shape works well with a cuteness that’s almost playful so is aimed at the young as well as the young at heart. Our car was black with red highlights in the lower areas of the body.

Interior The styling of the dashboard area is neat with the screens taking up most of the area to give it an attractive look. The seats in the GT-Line are well shaped and have a definite sporty look by courtesy of the red trim around their edges.

not a “GT” and this makes sense - it’s more about show than go, which is fine by many buyers. Our test car had four-speed automatic transmission - yes four speeds because this is a car that’s getting seriously old by today’s standards. As mentioned, a new model is due within a year or so and we can expect it to be significantly better in its powertrain. Somewhat oddly the manual is a five-speed unit so has more ratios than the auto. We might try to borrow a manual to see how it compares ye-olde automatic.

Infotainment As part of this update all Picantos now have an 8.0-inch infotainment display, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s space for a smartphone and there are single USB and 12V outlets.

Engines / transmissions Picanto GT-Line has a four-cylinder 1.2-litre engine, which is less powerful than the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol in the GT. There is 62kW of power, and 122Nm at 4000rpm. Keep in mind that this is a “-Line”,

Safety Picanto only has a four-star ANCAP safety rating, and that dates all the way back to 2017. Again, be aware a new model is coming. This updated model has city-speed autonomous emergency braking. This is certainly handy given that too many drivers are spending time talking on their phone or composing texts and having the car after them is a plus. Either that or educate drivers on the need to pay 100 per cent attention all the time. Okay,

I’ve always been a wishful thinker. You may say I’m a dreamer … with reference to the late, great John Lennon. There are two IsoFix points and top tether points for child seats.

Driving This is very small car so legroom in the back is tight for adults. Kids under the age of about 12 will be fine but any older than that will have to chat with the driver and come to a deal about sharing the space. Performance is okay, though hardly in the “GT” class. If you’ve got 320 kilograms of people the passenger seats and/or are driving up hills the Picanto will feel as though it’s struggling at times. Again, the four-speed auto is a pain because it’s going to drop back a gear and the engine jumps up in revs - as does the fuel consumption. Though the Picanto is small it has a 2400mm wheelbase so it works well, even on bumpy roads. The ride is quite firm if you look at it as being in the GT class it’s acceptable. Cornering is pretty good and the lightweight makes it fun to drive on your favourite stretches

of country roads. There is a 4.2-inch multifunction display in front of the driver. Both this and the centre screen are reasonably sharp and easy to read without the driver having to take their mind of the road ahead. Official consumption for the automatic GT-Line we tested is 5.8L/100km on the combined cycle. During our week with the Picanto we used seven to nine litres per hundred around the suburbs and five to six litres in the country and on motorways and level-road country driving. Like all Kias the cute little Picanto has a seven-year, unlimited distance warranty. Which is a huge benefit in this class as buyers are likely to be young and not have much of an income.

Summing up Kia Picanto is a cute little hatchback at a more than reasonable price. It looks great and drives pretty well for what it is. Though it’s getting on in years and doesn’t have the latest in safety features it should certainly get a place on your list of cars to test drive.

Tuesday, 15 February, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 21

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Jets continue to grow under coach Chancellor The NAB League Girls competition is seeing a wider spread of contributors as the league continues to develop according to Western Jets coach Robbie Chancellor. Chancellor, who is in his second year as coach of the Jets, said they were starting to see a number of changes, which reflect where the game is going. “We’re seeing the strength of the lower ages in terms of players and building depth,” he said. “We’re not relying on one or two players. There’s now seven or eight girls that can shift the momentum.” Chancellor said within his own team there’s the stars like Charlotte Baskaran and Montana Ham, who continue to star as they set their sights on being drafted. Baskaran and Ham were the standouts in the Jets’ first win of the season against the Northern Knights. He said the like of Trinity Skenderis, Paige Trajkovski, and 15-year-old Lou-Lou Field were

some of the younger ones to impress so far. Chancellor said they were seeing the spread of contributors, in both the NAB League games and the future games. The future games involve those players who aren’t playing in the main match, to give everyone the chance to play each week. “With big squads you are normally playing a lot of the same girls, with futures games, you’re pretty much playing everyone on the same day. “What we’re seeing is that the young crop is far more advanced than previous years, it’s a reflection of the depth of the competition.” Chancellor was thrilled with the side after that chalked up their first win. With a young side with only three or four top age players, the Jets beat the Knights, 5.8 (38)- 3.5 (23). The second quarter would be the difference, with the Jets kicking four goals to set up the wind. Chancellor said the playing group had really responded after the previous week.

“They played some pretty good footy on the weekend and I’m pretty excited for the next few weeks.” Chancellor said the side was starting to play a bit more of the game style they wanted to focus on, a fast game with lots of handballs and the girls taking it on. He said that style was a reflection of their strengths and the direction the female game is going. The Jets are set to play the Greater Western Victoria Rebels on Saturday in Ballarat, after deadline. It’s a busy time for Chancellor with the boys’ side also returning. Chancellor said he was thrilled with how they had returned after the break. “It was really pleasing to see them come back in good shape. For a wrap up of the weekend’s match, go to www.starweekly.com.au. Tara Murray

Charlotte Baskaran.

(Supplied)

Strikers aim for promotion

Jamie Young has had an impact at Western United.

(Supplied)

Young making an impact By Tara Murray When new Western United coach John Aloisi approached Jamie Young to make the move to Victoria he didn’t hesitate. In the backend of his career, at 36, Young was keen to continue to be challenged and be part of something that was building at United. “Football careers are so short and I don’t want to waste my time,” he said. “I want to be spending my time playing in high demanding cultures and I want to be playing strong with leaders and characters. “Here’s an organisation investing in very high level coaches like John. When John gave me a call I didn’t really hesitate. “I knew there was going to be very high levels of expectations and accountability and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed that. “I’m really interested in spending my time with people who are really excelling every day and that is really important.” The Young and Aloisi partnership isn’t a new one, with the two working together at the Brisbane Roar. Young said Aloisi’s decision to put his reputation on the line to coach United was

something that inspired him to join the club in just its third season. “I know what he’s about and the thing about John is, we know what he’s done as a player and his club career and at the Socceroos. He has a high level reputation and for him to come to a club that aren’t favourties on paper compared to others, he’s putting his reputation on the line. “I think we can see the character … He is easily one of the best coaches in the country and as a player when you see one of the best coaches put his reputation on the line that’s quite inspiring. “I see that in other players in our dressing room who don’t stand on par with achievements, putting their reputations on the line for each other is really inspiring.” The partnership has been a successful one so far at United. The team sits atop of the table and Young has been one of the best performed goalkeepers this season. While in his first season at the club, Young said the way the group has come together on and off the field has been a big part of their success. “I would summerarise it as an integrated and

22 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 15 February, 2022

cohesive approach. We have competent people in administrative roles who have recruited a new manager, who has recruited new players. “From there, there’s been high level coaching and players who can execute that coaching on the pitch and you can see how everyone is pulling in the right direction. “It is so important when people are working in the same direction off the pitch how that transfers on, it’s like a domino effect.” Defensively, Young was quick to praise the work of his teammates who are making his role easier. Heading into the weekend’s game, Young led the competition in clean sheets and was equal top for the most saves. “We’ve got a good defensive record,” he said. “Before we step on the pitch there’s a very thorough analysis strategy that we put in place that may look like random chaos, it’s very strategic. “I know goalkeepers associated with clean sheets. [But] case in point, the second half I didn’t really have a save to make. “It shows the level the defence, the midfielders and strikers are playing at, where a goalkeeper doesn’t have to make saves, those guys in front of him are doing their job really well.”

Westside Strikers are aiming for promotion in Football Victoria state league 4 west this season. After two interrupted seasons due to COVID-19, the Strikers are hoping some luck will go their way and allow a full season. The club was sitting second when the season was called off last year. President Sam Raniolo said they believe that they can do good things this season. “It’s been really good and they’ve been training since the beginning of January,” he said. “We’re trying to get everyone up and fit. It was a disappointing two years, we thought we had a good chance of challenging for promotion. “Hopefully it will be better this year.” Raniolo said they had signed all the players from last season and added two key signings. He said they needed to strengthen the side. “You never know what will happen with COVID.” Having retained their squad Raniolo said they were keen to ensure they were still a side at the top of the ladder. “We are aiming to get promoted this year into state league 3,” he said. “The club deserves to be in state league 3 with the amount of juniors we have. “This season we have 27 junior sides, a senior, reserves, masters and a thirds side. “We weren’t sure what was going to happen after COVID, but the kids have come back.” The Strikers were set to get their first taste of a match for 2022 in the Australia Cup on Saturday. The cup was previously known as the FFA Cup. The Strikers were set to play Seaford United, which forfeited the match in the lead up. It means the Strikers are straight through to the next round. “We had been looking forward to it,” Raniolo said. “We’re not into the second round and we’ll look to have another practice match.” Tara Murray

Melton Phoenix women rise from the ashes Melton Phoenix is ramping up more opportunities for women and girls at the club. Club president Michelle Williamson was practically born into the soccer club, with her parents both playing for Melton since they moved to Australia from England decades ago. Williamson then played in the junior boys competition until the age of 12, when she had no other choice but to join the women’s side. Her experience playing with boys and then women, as a girl, made her passionate about changing things up in the club in recent years. “I wanted to make the club a better place and be more inclusive with women which is what I went through when I was younger. I didn’t want any girls to go through that,” she said. When she joined the committee, she quickly noticed the club was being run as an “old school boys club”. “So we all got involved and now we’re

thriving. So many women and so many girls want to get involved,” she said. The committee is 50-50 female to male ratio now. “Everyone’s open to anything (any role). Anyone who is capable is doing it,” Williamson said. “I always make sure the girls program is something that’s at the forefront.” The club now has a progression for girls to start at the age of five to play all the way through to womens. Williamson said the pathways for girls are critical for their development in the game. “For juniors, it’s an activity to keep physically fit and to learn the discipline of team sports,” she said. “But also once they hit those teenage years, I think it’s a sense of belonging with girls with similar things in common. And then

it becomes, as you’re an adult, it’s a support network, as you’re going through motherhood or jobs and things like that … it’s a really big community. “And having the pathways for football and realising they (the girls) want to play, there’s nothing the boys are doing that they can’t.” The women’s side is back in full swing this year in league 5 which Williamson said is going to be really competitive. “They’ve obviously built on their skill base over the last couple of years so I think they’ll be quite competitive,” Williamson said. “We’ve got in a girl who’s played state 3 before … she was keen to come across...so they’re bolstering up quite well.” The club will co-host an event for International Women’s Day with Zonta, on Thursday, March 3 at Tabcorp park with guest speaker Libbi Gorr.

Vice captain Danni Camilleri, captain Taylah Watkinson, women’s ambassador and team manager Alexandra El-Khishen, and club president Michelle Williamson. (Damjan Janevski) 268100_01

Eagles ready for season ‘22

Mel Oloamanu will play for Victoria in the under-19s in the 2022 National Netball Championships.

Vic selection a ‘shock’ By Sarah Oliver Up and coming netball star Mel Oloamanu has continued to prove her talent on the court after being selected to play for Victoria in the under-19s in the 2022 National Netball Championships. The 19-year-old Melton resident from City West Falcons said she was shocked when she found out she’d made the team. “At first I was shocked … I was so happy and so excited. A bit nervous as well but mostly just excited about the great news. And everyone just started messaging congratulations,” she said. Training has already begun for the team which Oloamanu said has been awesome so far. “Everyone feels like family to be honest and the girls get along really well with each other. All happy vibes. Just getting used to the structure but overall it’s been a really good two sessions,” she said. Oloamanu said the team’s biggest strength is the connection between players, on and off the court. “Without the connection then … everything would be all over the place,” she said. “The way we support each other is awesome

as well, even if we make mistakes.” The teen, who mostly plays goal defence but also pulls on a goalkeeper or wing defence bib, said her biggest strength is her voice and talking on the court. “And connecting with the players as well because, when that comes into play everything runs smoothly.” In the lead up to the competition, which is being held in Hobart in April, Oloamanu said she needs to work on her fitness. “For me personally I think it’s my fitness. It has been a work in progress for a while … and just staying constant on court,” she said. The defender started playing when she was about 12-years-old after being inspired by watching her older cousin play, Elisapeta Toeava. “She’s playing for the (Northern) Mystics team in New Zealand. It’s so good to watch her on the big screen and support her,” Oloamanu said. The 27-year-old Toeava, who plays wing attack and centre positions, has also played for the Silver Ferns for the national squad in 2018 and in 2020-21. It didn’t take long for Oloamanu to progress

and have her skills recognised. In 2019, she represented the Australian under-16 netball team in the nationals as co-captain. When speaking with Star Weekly in 2019, she said pulling on the green and gold for the first time was something she will never forget. “The first time I represented Australia, it was such an honour,” she said. “It was just an amazing experience to go out there and represent this country. “Even though we won silver, I reckon the memories are gold.” And in 2019 she represented Victoria at under-17 level for the first time. In 2021, Oloamanu was a training partner for Collingwood which she is in the middle of trialling for this year. “I’m really hoping that I do (make it) … If I don’t there’s always another door open,” she said. “It’s been an amazing experience training with all the girls.” Having a career in netball would be a big dream come true for the young gun. “The end goal is to just have my parents proud of me,” she said.

Some much needed upgrades at Eynesbury Football Netball Club have helped the club to grow and prepare for the 2022 season ahead, including a brand new under-15s boys footy team. Eagles club 18 senior coach Aron Lombardi said the under-15s team is starting to take shape “… And like with most things around the club, excitement is high,” he said. “The under-15s football team will be starting training next week and any interested new players are welcome.” Lombardi said the biggest strength for the boys is a strong coaching team. “Jye Ledin is coaching the team with Danny Whelan and both are amazing coaches with a strong football background,” Lombardi said. “Jye has played football at a very high level, is a secondary school teacher and is a current junior interleague coach. “Danny is a passionate football coach who, like Jye, played at a high level and is dedicated to coaching our under-15 team in 2022.” Being the first under-15s the club has had, Lombardi said the players will need to learn to work together as a team and develop strong bonds with each other. “Having a great coaching team and a fantastic group of players we are confident this will happen quickly once training starts and a successful 2022 awaits for the team,” Lombardi said. All teams at the club will start their preseason training in the coming weeks. “It is incredibly exciting for our netballers to be training on our new home courts and the footballers can’t wait to do their first ever preseason on our new oval,” Lombardi said. Lombardi said the Eagles is an amazing community-based club with talented players, dedicated volunteers, passionate coaches. “In 2022 we cannot wait to play in front of our amazing Eynesbury local community.” Sarah Oliver

Tuesday, 15 February, 2022 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY 23

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