Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 22nd July 2025

Consultation concerns

By Oscar Parry

Community stakeholders of the proposed Western Renewables Link (WRL) say they are “disappointed“ with the project’s consultation and feel overwhelmed with reviewing its recently publicised environmental effects statement (EES). As reported by Star Weekly , AusNet is proposing to build a 190-kilometre electricity transmission line that will carry renewableenergyfromBulganainwestern Victoria to Sydenham in Melbourne’s north-west.

The EES for the proposed project was made public and was opened to submissions for a period of 40 business days from Monday, June 30.

Plumpton landholder and Western Victorian Community Alliance Melton representative Barbara Ford said the EES is almost 10,000 pages long and is “a dense collection of technical, regulatory, and environmental material”.

“And yet, the public has been given just 40 days to read, understand, and respond to it. AusNet has taken five years to collate all the information employing people full-time,” Ms Ford said.

Melton Football Netball Club president MattKerrsaidhehasstruggledtofindtime to sit down and read the document while trying to run a business and fulfil his role with the club.

“As a club, we’re very disappointed with the consultation process. It feels like AusNet are just ticking boxes just to get their end of the deal signed up … I think it was 18 months ago we had a user group meeting at the footy club rooms and as a big group. We had a lot of questions I feel were unanswered,” Mr Kerr said.

“They brought an expert in radio magneticfieldstoanswerquestionsonhow it would affect kids and people long-term seeing as those lines are going to be so close to our playing fields … and they had no answers, they never came back to us.”

Melton Airfield head of operations Evan Reeve said the airfield is at risk of closing down its services as the towers would be within 500 metres of the airfield.

“It can’t operate given the fact that we operate to a safety management system. It doesn’t fit … the risks can’t be mitigated,” Mr Reeve said.

Melton horse trainer Clinton Welsh said he feels there is a lack of information in relation to electromagnetic and noise effectsoftheprojectonhorsesandfeelsthis information has not been made available.

Moorabool mayor Paul Tatchell said the amount of information in the EES “will leave many people feeling overwhelmed”.

“Council has developed guides on upcoming community sessions in [Moorabool], and an example EES submission structure to help get our community members started,” Cr Tatchell said. “It is vital that impacted community

members consider providing submissions to share how this project will continue to affect them if it goes ahead.”

Moorabool has provided an EES information guide and EES submission structure guide are its website and at its centres in Ballan, Darley and the Lerderderg Library in Bacchus Marsh. The council is also supporting the Western Victoria Community Alliance with its EES community drop-in sessions in the coming weeks.

Continued: Page 9.

A group of those affected by the proposed towers of the Western Renewables Link project. (Damjan Janevski) 490036_01

STAY INFORMED

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

Shape tomorrow’s open spaces

We are currently reviewing our Open Space Plan and want you to have your say about our reserves and parks to help us plan for the future. Our open spaces include sport reserves, parklands, dog parks, waterways, and playgrounds. We want to hear your thoughts about:

• How you use and enjoy open spaces

• What makes great open spaces

• What matters most to children and teens in these open spaces

To provide your feedback, complete our online survey by 27 July 2025 at conversations.melton.vic.gov.au

Lights on at Sports Reserves

We are turning on the lights at Bridge Road Athletics Track and Brookside Recreation Reserve Synthetic Pitch, to help keep you active over the colder months until October. Access is free and no booking is required!

Bridge Road Recreation Reserve: Bridge Road, Strathtulloh Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays - 7pm to 9 pm

Brookside Recreation Reserve: Caroline Springs Boulevard, Caroline Springs Fridays - 6pm to 9pm

Find your bin day

You can check your bin collection day online or download a 2025/26 bin collection calendar via our website.

You can also view information about all of our waste services online or download our ‘Waste Services Guide’ which has everything you need to know; including what items go in which bin, what can be disposed of for free at the Melton Recycling Facility, and how to book a hard waste collection. For information, visit melton.vic.gov.au/waste

Jackwood Ward with Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

It’s hard to believe July is almost over — 2025 is flying by!

In late June, Council approved its 2025/26 Budget, and now the work begins rolling out a record

$225.8 million capital works program, the biggest in our City’s history.

As your Jackwood Ward Councillor, I’m excited about the projects coming to our area. A standout is the $7.6 million commitment towards the Deanside Children’s and Community Centre, a vital hub that will support and grow with our young families and community.

– Visit

The budget also funds important road upgrades in Jackwood Ward, including major works along Taylors Road. Signalised intersections will be installed at Sinclairs and Gourlay Roads, with road duplications between Gourlay Road and City Vista Court all slated to start in 2026.

Work is well underway at the Taylors and Plumpton Roads intersection. Construction works are expected to be completed by the end of the year, and then we can start working with service providers to switch on the lights and fully open the intersection.

For more details, visit melton.vic.gov.au/majorprojects

With the winter holidays behind us, and the kids back to school for third term, I wanted to remind everyone that it’s critical that we stay alert around school zones, obey speed limits, be patient with other drivers and respectful of our School Crossing Supervisors. Everyone deserves a safe journey to and from school.

Feel free to contact me regarding Jackwood Ward or Council related issues on 0499 801 183; email: ashleigh.vandenberg@melton.vic. gov.au

In exciting news, construction has started on the Cobblebank Community Services Hub! This is Council’s highest value project to date, with an investment of just under $72 million, and it’s great to see it start to take shape.

Once open, the new hub will provide important health, wellbeing and education services for our fast-growing community, and opportunities for local employment in the community services area. It’s expected to be operational by late-2026 and I can’t wait to see the progress of this transformational project.

In other pleasing news, it’s great to see the traffic lights have been switched on at Caroline Springs and Rockbank Middle Road intersection and the intersection fully opened.

I would like to thank the community for their patience throughout this important project, and while we worked with all the various stakeholders including Powercor and the Department of Transport and Planning on the final steps to get the lights turned on.

The new traffic lights will help improve traffic flow and provide safe crossing locations for pedestrians, including nearby school students.

Finally, I am thrilled to say that we have had a record-breaking number of applications for the 2025 Melton Business Excellence Awards with over 100 businesses being considered for an award. Our panel of judges has been extremely busy going through the applications, and the finalists will be announced later this week on our website: melton.vic.gov.au/ MBEA. I wish all applicants the best of luck!

You’re welcome to contact me regarding Council matters at Steve.Abboushi@melton.vic. gov.au or on 0437 231 680.

Mayor Cr Steve Abboushi Deputy Mayor Cr Lara Carli Cr Kathy Majdlik

Cr Brandi Morris Cr Sophie Ramsey Cr Julie Shannon Cr Bob Turner Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg Cr John Verdon Cr

Vineyard safety bid continues

Diggers Rest residents are again calling for safety upgrades to Vineyard Road and claim the location of an early learning centre adjacent to the road is a “tragedy waiting to happen”.

As reported by Star Weekly, in 2018 VicRoads ruled out installing safety barriers along a stretch of Vineyard Road adjacent to the Diggers Rest Early Learning Centre.

Speaking to Star Weekly last week, resident Kate Perkins said the centre “backs straight onto Vineyard Road.

A parent of a daughter who attends

the centre, she said she witnesses cars making illegal right turns from Eucalyptus Road across the solid white line every single day and has seen near-misses with trucks causing them to swerve in the direction of the centre’s play area wall.

“I honestly wait for a phone call to hear that something has happened … it is ... a tragedy waiting to happen.”

Ms Perkins said that she would like to see a speed limit reduction on Vineyard Road along with safety bollards installed adjacent to the early learning centre.

She said that after contacting Trans-

port Victoria, she was told that under current guidelines, the road should remain at 80km/h speed limit and that bollards could increase the hazard in the event of an accident.

Another neighbouring resident Gemma Borchard said she has attended accidents on this section of road as a first aid officer until an ambulance arrives.

Y Whittlesea chief executive Michele Rowse said the organisation raised the issue with VicRoads several years ago and was advised a lateral ditch served as protection.

Join tree planting to help green the west

Thecommunityisinvitedtojoinatreeplanting and sustainability festival at Aintree Reserve this weekend in celebration of National Tree Day.

The event is hosted by Woodlea estate and local environmental non-profit group We Love Aintree.

The event forms part of a Woodlea sustainability campaign, through which the organisation plans to plant 10,000 native species across the volcanic grassland of the Kororoit Creek corridor this year.

At the upcoming National Tree Day event, We Love Aintree and Woodlea will

plant 5000 native grasses and saltbush on therockyknollatAintree,andintheleadup to the event, We Love Aintree is on track to have planted another 5000 plants through its revegetation projects.

The event will also include sustainability-focused art and activities, including a native animal artwork display by students from Aintree Primary School, a free sausage sizzle by Caroline Springs RSL, free coffee, a native plant nursery fundraiser and a wildlife photography display by local photographer Pete Cornell.

We Love Aintree founding director Jono

Ingram said National Tree Day each July is the organisation’s biggest annual community event.

“Our area doesn’t naturally have a lot of trees – we’re open grasslands part of the Western Volcanic Plain, and so we’ll be planting two species of Wallaby Grass and three species of saltbush,” Mr Ingram said.

The event will be hosted at Aintree Reserve on Sunday, July 27 from 9am–2pm, with a safety briefing at 9am sharp.

Children are welcome with adult supervision.

Details: tinyurl.com/3mj7ykw2

She said the centre has metal fencing at parts of the site.

A Melton spokesperson said the council has shared resident concerns with the state government.

A Department of Transport and Planning spokesperson said that everybody has a role to play in ensuring our roads are safe, and encouraged all drivers to drive to conditions and obey all signage

Star Weekly understands there are currently no plans for further changes to Vineyard Road but the government will consider possible upgrades in future.

Blood donation rule change

Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has removed sexual activity wait times for life-saving plasma donations, meaning that many more people can now help to save lives.

On Monday, July 14, the organisation removed most sexual activity wait times for life-saving plasma donations, aiming to safely pave the way for many gay and bisexual men, transgender people, sex workers, and people on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEPi) to help save lives.

Previous donor rules prevented many people from the LGBTQIA+ and sex worker communities from donating plasma if they had sex within the past three months.

Plasma – referred to as the ’liquid gold’ part of blood – is now the donation type most needed by Australian patients, with treatment for more than 50 medical conditions reliant on its supply.

Some 625,000 Australians may become eligible to donate plasma, with Lifeblood anticipating ABOUT 95,000 additional donations of plasma to be made each year.

Lifeblood chief executive Stephen Cornelissen said the organisation is looking forward to welcoming many more people into its donation centres. He said patient safety would always be Lifeblood’s top priority, and that extensive research and modelling had shown these changes can be implemented without compromising the safety of Australia’s blood supply.

To book a donation call 13 14 95 or fo to lifeblood.com.au

We Love Aintree founding director Jono Ingram at Aintree Reserve. (Damjan Janevski). 490376_04

Vaccination service cut

By Sam Porter

AprominentStAlbansvaccinationservice offeringfreewalk-injabsforchildrenisset tocloseduetofundingcuts,afterthestate government said the provider didn’t use the allowance for its intended purpose.

Western Health, which oversees operations at the Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital’s vaccination centre, was allocated funding for a specialist service to deliver vaccinations to children with complex needs while they were sedated.

The state government said Western Health was using its allocations to immu-

nise the wider community more generally. Vaccinations for the general public are funded by the federal government and administered by GPs, local councils and community pharmacies.

Additional grants are given to paediatric hospitals to deliver specialist vaccination services.

In a Facebook post, Brimbank mother Isabel Fernandes said the ability to walk in without needing to book in advance has been a lifesaver, especially when dealing with the unpredictability of babies’ needs and schedules.

“This [walk-in] service is being fully

utilised …nurses recently told me they’re having to turn patients away due to overwhelming demand,” she said.

Ms Fernandes is concerned by the clinic’s imminent closure, which she was told would happen in October.

“Losing this service would be a major setback for families in our community. Rather than cutting the service entirely, funding should be increased to meet the growing needs of the community,” she said.

She created an online petition, which has now gained over 850 signatures, callingforthefundingtobereinstatedtoprevent the closure of the clinic.

Stellar Melton VET student recognised

A Melton student’s outstanding Vocational Education and Training (VET) business results were recognised with a Premier’s award this month.

The Premier’s Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) awards are given to students who scored 46 or above in a particular subject.

OneSchool Global Melton year 12 student Isla Campion received a perfectscoreof50inVETbusinesslastyear and was one of 339 students to receive an award at a ceremony in Melbourne on July 2.

Isla said it was unreal to see her perfect score of 50 when she checked her results. She studied the subject while she was in year 11.

“After the initial shock, though, my first thoughts were how grateful I was –and still am – to the incredible teacher I had and the incredible school that set me up for success from the get-go,” she said.

“Going to the Premier’s Awards ceremony and receiving the award was also an amazing experience, and very humbling. I had an overwhelming sense of how much talent and potential was sitting in that room.”

Isla plans to join and eventually help manageherfamily’sbusinessandapply her knowledge in real-life situations.

In terms of study advice, Isla said to not underestimate the power of practice exams, ask lots of questions, and lean on study resources or request extra help.

“One other thing I would advise is if your teacher says ‘this could be on the exam,’ pay attention, note it down, whatever you do don’t disregard it,” she said. “In the end, your teacher can talk as much as they want, but it’s up to you to listen, and then to seek out and fill the gaps in your knowledge so you’re rock solid for exams.”

New Truganina school named after community feedback

The name of a new primary school in Truganina has been revealed, as the school prepares to open its doors to students early next year.

Announced on Friday, July 18 by Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch, the name ‘Mindalk Primary School’ was chosen for the school, with the site located at 6 Trickett Drive, Truganina.

According to the state government, the name was chosen following community feedback and consultation with Traditional Owner groups and Mindalk – pronounced MIN-dulk – is a Bunurong

Boonwurrung language word meaning wombat.

It formerly used the interim name of Tarneit Plains Primary School.

The school is set to open for term 1 next year.

When it opens, it will include three ‘learning neighbourhoods,’ an administration and library building, outdoor hard courts, a community hub with an indoor multi-use court, a canteen and arts and music spaces, a sports field, and a car park.

Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch said

A state government spokesperson said, “As Western Health has been unable to deliver specialist immunisation services, the Royal Children’s Hospital and Monash Health has expanded their services to meet demand”.

Western Health acting chief operating officerChristineNeumannsaid,“Patients and consumers can also access vaccination services at a range of other local health services, including GPs, some pharmacies and local councils”.

The Department of Health and Western Health both said they will continue to worktogethertore-introducethespecialist immunisation services.

RACV wants to hear about intersections

RACV is calling on Victorians to rank Melbourne’s intersections that need urgent attention by the Victorian government.

RACV head of policy James Williams said My Melbourne Road helps RACV to advocate for change where it’s needed most.

“Whether you’re behind the wheel, riding, walking or using public transport, your experience on the road matters to RACV,” Mr Williams said.

“We know from experience that direct feedback from Victorians makes a difference, and helps governments make decisions about where to invest to improve our roads.”

Since the last My Melbourne Road in 2023, RACV has tracked upgrades or planned improvements to 11 intersections and roads that respondents had previously highlighted as priorities.

This year, RACV has worked with the National Transport Research Organisation (NTRO) to analyse 365 of Melbourne’s intersections. Based on crash history, traffic volumes and intersections design, RACV and NTRO have identified the 84 most dangerous intersections in Melbourne. Grouped into seven urban areas, these 84 intersections saw 771 crashes over the past five years – a clear signal that more needs to be done. RACV is now inviting Victorians to rank these intersections and tell it where the government should prioritise road safety improvements.

With the results, RACV will work with NTRO to propose a high-level solution for the most dangerous intersection in each urban area of Melbourne: inner, west, north west, north east, east, inner south east and outer south east.

My Melbourne Road takes only three minutes to complete and covers every council in Melbourne. In each urban area, participants are able to choose up to four intersections as well as nominate other intersections not listed.

Mr Williams said it’s not just about high-profile intersections – smaller suburban roads that may be poorly maintained, overly complex, or frequently congested also deserve attention.

that she is excited to see the school open to students.

“I can’t wait for Mindalk Primary School to open its doors next year, and give our community the modern learning facilities it deserves,” Ms Grigorovitch said.

Blayne Wallis has been appointed principal of Mindalk Primary School, and according to the state government, she is an experienced principal who has led in a variety of schools.

“RACV’s My Melbourne Road empowerseveryroadusertohighlightareasthey believe are unsafe, even if they’re not widely known,” Mr Williams said.

“Whether it’s a confusing roundabout, a blocked pedestrian crossing, or an intersection lacking turning lanes, the community’s feedback helps RACV identify and prioritise problems that data alone may not fully capture.”

OneSchool (OSG) Global Nathalia student Kalarni Phillips, OSG teacher Emma Rice, and OSG Melton student Isla Campion. (Supplied).

Transit policing blitz

VictoriaPoliceconductedatransitoperationbetweenMeltonandBacchusMarsh railwaystationslastweek,aimingtodeter crime and boost safety.

About 50 police and protective service officers saturated the railway stations and nearby bus hubs in a highly visible operation titled Operation Skyline from July 15-17.

Police spoke with more than 150 people during the operation. Three people were arrested.

A 38-year-old Melton West man who had two outstanding warrants for failing to appear at court was arrested, along with a 32-year-old Bacchus Marsh man who had six outstanding warrants for failing to appear at court.

The third was a 63-year-old Western Australian man who failed to identify himself and resisted arrest.

On top of these arrests, police also located two weapons during the operation.

Police allegedly found a knife possessed by a 17-year-old girl who was issued with a penalty notice for possessing a controlled weapon.

A 19-year-old woman will be charged on summons with possessing a controlled weapon after police also allegedly located a knife in her possession.

Transit West Acting Senior Sergeant Nathan Vipond said public feedback from the increased presence of police and PSOs along the train line was extremely positive.

“Several of our members had people coming up to them saying how great it wastoseeextraofficersonpatrol,”Acting Senior Sergeant Vipond said.

“Theincreasedpresencewasespecially welcome given it was school holidays when more young people are out and about.

“This operation sends a clear message

that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated on our public transport system.”

Authorised officers from V/Line also assisted with the operation to ensure ticketing compliance.

Unregistered company raided

The Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC) has executed searchwarrantsatthreesiteslinked to unregistered building company Homespace Builds Pty Ltd. BPC investigators, accompanied by Police and digital forensic experts, raided premises and vehicles at Aintree, Bacchus Marsh, and Darley.

According to the BPC, the raids relate to multiple alleged offencesundertheBuildingActand the Domestic Building Contracts Act (DBCA) uncovered during a complex proactive investigation over many months.

Homespace Builds is being investigated over a range of alleged offences including unregistered work, entering into major domestic building contracts when not registered to do so, and making false and misleading statements.

The BPC has also used intelligence from a previous raid to identify Homespace as an alleged participant in paying for the use of another company’s registration. Its investigations team will refer any potential contraventions of the DBCAtoConsumerAffairsVictoria.

The BPC is warning consumers not to employ Homespace Builds Pty Ltd while an investigation into its conduct continues.

Western Renewables Link Environment Effects Statement (EES)

Western Renewables Link Environment Effects Statement (EES)

The Western Renewables Link’s Environment Effects Statement (EES) and draft Planning Scheme Amendment (PSA) will be available for viewing and public comment for a period of 40 business days from Monday 30 June 2025 until 22 August 2025.

AusNet will host a series of community information events throughout the exhibition period to help you understand the project, the EES process, and how to access the information that matters to you. These drop-in sessions are open to everyone; no registration is required.

The Western Renewables Link’s Environment Effects Statement (EES) and draft Planning Scheme Amendment (PSA) will be available for viewing and public comment for a period of 40 business days from Monday 30 June 2025 until 22 August 2025. AusNet will host a series of community information events throughout the exhibition period to help you understand the project, the EES process, and how to access the information that matters to you. These drop-in sessions are open to everyone; no registration is required.

Where to view the EES

Information sessions View the EES documents and speak with project staff and technical specialists. Feel free to drop in at any time during the times scheduled. � Where to view the EES

The EES is available on the project’s website at: westernrenewableslink.com.au/ees

The EES is available on the project’s website at: westernrenewableslink.com.au/ees

Or can be viewed in person at the following locations until 22 August.

Or can be viewed in person at the following locations until 22 August.

• Ballan Council Office, 15 Stead Street, Ballan

• Ballan Council Office, 15 Stead Street, Ballan

• Beaufort Community Resource Centre & Library, 72 Neill Street, Beaufort

• Beaufort Community Resource Centre & Library, 72 Neill Street, Beaufort

• Clunes Library, 53 Fraser Street, Clunes

• Clunes Library, 53 Fraser Street, Clunes

• Creswick Hub, 68 Albert Street, Creswick

• Creswick Hub, 68 Albert Street, Creswick

• Daylesford Library, 33 Albert Street, Daylesford

• Daylesford Library, 33 Albert Street, Daylesford

• Lerderderg Library (Bacchus Marsh), 215 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh

• Lerderderg Library (Bacchus Marsh), 215 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh

• Lexton Community Centre, 1 Gold Smith Street, Lexton

• Lexton Community Centre, 1 Gold Smith Street, Lexton

• Melton Library & Learning Hub, 31 McKenzie Street, Melton

• Melton Library & Learning Hub, 31 McKenzie Street, Melton

• State Library, 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne

• State Library, 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne

• Stawell Town Hall, 59-69 Main Street, Stawell

• Stawell Town Hall, 59-69 Main Street, Stawell

• The Phoenix Building (Ballarat), 25 Armstrong Street South, Ballarat

• The Phoenix Building (Ballarat), 25 Armstrong Street South, Ballarat

Victoria Police Transit West acting senior sergeant Nathan Vipond, protective services officer Matt Taliana, and V/Line authorised officer Melissa Castaldi during the operation. (Ljubica Vrankovic). 490067_01

Information sessions View the EES documents and speak with project staff and technical specialists. Feel free to drop in at any time during the times scheduled.

Soul Food speaker session

The Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club is set to host a presentation with guest speakersfromthelocalSoulFoodProgram Charity Group, providing an insight into the charity’s history, purpose, and achievements.

Beginning in 2009, the Soul Food Program began with the Wednesday Lunch – a weekly gathering providing a hearty two-course hot meal in a safe and welcoming environment.

Soul Food cook Leonie Henry, who is one of the speakers at the upcoming event, said that the organisation provides multiple benefits to those who use its services.

“The whole idea was not just to give them a decent feed but also to give them a social outlet … a lot of people who are isolated with food are also isolated in terms of community,” Ms Henry said.

“The focus still exists – [in] that we are there to bring people together in a social sense and [provide a] decent meal … the meal is made up of a hot meal that we cook ourselves and a dessert, and they also have tea and coffee afterwards with cake and biscuits,” she said.

Ms Henry said that when she first joined the organisation in 2014, the group was providing meals to about 30 to 40 people a week and are now preparing about 200 meals a week.

The guest speaker presentation will be hosted at Avenue Bowling Club in Bacchus Marsh on August 7, with doors opening at 10am, a gold coin donation morning tea at 10.30am, and then the presentation from 11am.

All ladies are welcome.

Contact: Barbara, 0432 185 009

Briefs

Moorabool vs EPA ruling

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) has ruled that Moorabool must pay for the clean up of harmful industrial waste that was illegally dumped on council-managed land. According to the council, the cost is estimated to be about $500,000. On Wednesday, July 16, VCAT denied Moorabool’s request for a stay on the EPA’s order that council cleans up about 1000 to 1250 dissolved acetylene cylinders contained on pallets located in two trailers parked on the nature strip of 210 Lerderderg Park Road in Merrimu. According to VCAT, it considered the submission of the parties, and given the circumstances and facts, considered it was not in the community interest to grant the stay. The EPA’s notice requires Moorabool to remove the waste from the premises and to a place that is permitted to accept it by Friday, July 25.

Fatal crash in Lal Lal

A male driver died in a fatal car crash in Lal Lal last week. Police understand a car crashed into a tree on Yendon-Lal Lal Road at about 10.30am on Friday, July 18. The male driver, who is yet to be formally identified, died at the scene.

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

Your new memorial park is taking shape

Stop by a community drop-in session to learn more about Harkness Memorial Park, a vital community space being developed right here in the City of Melton.

When: Monday 28 July 2025 5pm - 7pm

Where:Arnolds Creek Community Centre Community Room 2 19 Claret Ash Boulevard Harkness

When: Saturday 9 August 2025 12pm – 2pm

Where:Residential Park 60 Long Forest Avenue Harkness Free BBQ!

Soul Food Program volunteers Jenny Rees, Veronica Fitzgerald, Mazi McBurnie, and Nana Holmes preparing a quiche. (Supplied)

MY PLACE

Lifelong Elaine resident Shane Dunne – also known as ‘Shane the Shearer’ – shears and maintains sheep, alpacas, and goats. Oscar Parry spoke with Shane about his connection to his home town and what he enjoys most about working in this field.

What is your connection to Elaine? I’m a long-term resident here … I’d be the fourth generation at Elaine in my family.

What do you like most about Elaine?

I went to the little primary school – [we had] about 40 children here at the little primary school and it closed, but I was involved in the Elaine Tennis Club and I’m still in the Elaine Fire Brigade and I played a handful of games for the Elaine Cricket Club and … back in the Kennett years when he closed all the primary schools, I saw it all the way to nothing.

I grew up on a sheep farm out here, so I learnt to shear – and if you’re going to stay at Elaine, you might as well shear sheep because there’s not much other industry out here!

Tell us a bit about your farm. I’ve got about 880 mainly Merino ewes and this is Merino country really, and I’m growing 70 acres of barley as well – mainly to feed the sheep in the dry season or when they lamb. And I’ve also got a hobby farm shearing and maintenance service business in predominantly the Macedon Ranges … which stretches right out to the Moorabool area. I also go into Geelong and Bendigo and Ballarat as well with that business.

I do sheep, alpacas, and goats – so, there’salotofhobbyfarms,theyneedtheir grass mowed, so a lot of hobby farmers have a couple of alpacas or a few goats or a few black Suffolk sheep to keep the grass down, and they can’t get anyone to shear them any more, so I shear hundreds and

hundreds of alpacas and also sheep … and a handful of goats. It’s a really good little business. And my son does the same thing

over in Gippsland and he also does a little bit up in Sydney as well, so it’s a bit of a niche business.

What do you enjoy most about your lifestyle?

I guess because I grew up with it – I grew up on a farm and I grew up in a shearing shed,Icanalwaysrememberbeingaround sheep, so that’s been my passion. It’s what I’ve always wanted to do, so my farming business is great for the off-season, so I shear predominantly on the hobby farms from September to March and in the off-season I mainly do my shearing and my crutching of my own sheep, and usually in about March too you’ve got to start feeding the sheep because they get hungry at that time, so I’ve kept pretty busy.

So, I suppose my whole life is sheep … there’s not many things I don’t know about sheep and alpacas to be honest. I’ve also got alpacas of my own as guardians to keep the foxes away from my lambs … they hate alpacas … especially the wether alpacas, they’re great guardians and they stand over the little lambs when they’re born and if they see a fox or a dog in the paddock they’ll chase them, and they’ll kill a fox … they’re really good.

Idoalotofdrenching.Inthewintertime people tend to forget about drenching their animals, so you should really drench them in the winter as well. And also, of course, if you keep up the nutrition by giving them some grain or some lucerne regularly, then that will … keep the parasites away … I do know a lot about animals. I’m in the right job.

Lifelong Elaine resident and shearer Shane Dunne. (Supplied)

Hospital underway

The first sod of the Melton Hospital was turned this week, with major construction nowunderwayonthelong-awaitedproject.

The new $900 million hospital will have the capacity to treat 130,000 patients a year and help almost 60,000 patients in its 24-hour emergency department supporting Melton, Caroline Springs, Rockbank, BacchusMarsh,andGisborne,accordingto thestategovernment.

Located on a 68,000-square-metre site on FerrisRoad,thehospitalwillhaveatleast274 beds, an intensive care unit, mental health services, maternity and neonatal services, radiology services, outpatient care, and teachingandtrainingandresearchspaces.

Works over the next six months will focus on excavation including rock breaking and soil removal, trenching for in-ground services to be installed, piling works and

retaining wall construction, pouring of concrete footings and ground slabs, formingthefoundationsofthehospital,and installationofthefirsttowercrane.

According to the state government, it will be Victoria’s first fully electric hospital –using carbon-neutral power from day one of operations – and it will be an important addition to the hospital network in the west, working with Sunshine Hospital and the new $1.5 billion Footscray Hospital to reducewaittimesacrosstheregion.

Melton MP Steve McGhie said the beginning of major construction on the site was “a significant step towards transforming Melton into a major hub for health,education,jobsandtraining.”

Health Infrastructure Minister Melissa Horne said the new hospital would create thousandsoflocaljobsduringconstruction,

and once complete, will be a world-class addition to healthcare in Melbourne’s outer west.

Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt said the new hospital will include important mental health services and make it easier forpeoplewhorequirecaretogetsupport.

As reported by Star Weekly, a hands-on design process of the new hospital involved hundredsofWesternHealthstaff,withmore than 60 design meetings and workshops, including over 20 immersive sessions at plan visualisation company Big Plans Melbourne.

At Big Plans, frontline healthcare workers walked through full-scale projections of key hospital areas like birthing suites and emergency bays, testing how spaces would work in practice to best meet the needs of Melbourne’sboomingouterwest.

Moorabool falls and cycling plan boost

AmasterplanforLalLalFallsReserveanda

feasibility study for the Ballan Cycling Hub have received state government funding. Under a state fund that aims to support projects in communities with populations below 5000 people, Moorabool received $50,000 for the Lal Lal Falls Master Plan, with council contributing $20,000 towards the plan.

Accordingtothecouncil,themasterplan is a vital initiative for this well-used but ageing reserve and the project will provide council with essential insights through community consultation and engagement with the local Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP), ensuring that future planning reflects the values, needs and aspirations of both the community and Traditional Owners.

It will serve as a foundation for future upgrades and enhancements to the reserve as a community space and visitor destination in Moorabool.

Moorabool also received $37,500 towards a feasibility study for the Ballan CyclingHub,withthecouncilcontributing $12,500.

The study will assess how cycling infrastructure could boost visitor numbers, provide economic benefits and createopportunitiesforlocalbusinessesto provide cycling-related services.

According to the council, the project will consider the needs for improving infrastructure and liveability in growing areas like Ballan, particularly through active transport options such as cycling.

With the funding announced on Thursday, July 10, Eureka MP Michaela Settle said that the funding is aimed at

providing ongoing benefits.

“Our tiniest towns have the biggest hearts and this investment will help make

sure they continue to be places where people want to live, work, stay and play,“ Ms Settle said.

Synagogue car theft arrest

A man has been charged over his alleged role in the theft of the blue VW Golf in Melton, which was later used by those involved in the Adass Israel Synagogue arson attack and other serious crimes in Victoria.

Police from the Victorian Joint Counter Terrorism Team (JCTT), which includes Victoria Police, Australian Federal Police and ASIO, arrested the 20-year-old at the NelsonHeightspublichousingestate in Williamstown on Wednesday afternoon.

Footage released by police shows plain clothed officers wearing face coverings, bullet-proof vests and carrying firearms arresting the man shortly after 2pm on July 16. Pascoe Street, between Aitken Street and Nelson Place was blocked off during the operation.

Police later executed a search warrant at a home in Melton South and seized items related to the investigation.

The man has been charged with theft of a motor vehicle and failing to comply with an order under section 3LA of the Crimes Act 1914 (Cth) to provide access to applications on his mobile telephone.

He was bailed under strict conditions to appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday, October 3.

Police will allege that the man stole the blue 2020-model VW Golf sedan in Melton on November 29.

As well as the arson attack on the Adass Israel Synagogue on December 6, the stolen Golf was also used in an arson and shooting that occurred in Bundoora on the same night and the Lux nightclub arson at South Yarra in November last year.

Thenightclubfireandshootingare being investigated by Victoria Police and are not considered politicallymotivated attacks.

However, the attack on the Ripponlea synagogue is being treated as politically motivated and remains a terrorism investigation. Anyone with information relating to the Adass Israel Synagogue attack is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or online at www. crimestoppersvic.com.au.

A confidential report can also be made to the National Security Hotline on 1800 123 400.

Moorabool councillors Steve Venditti-Taylor, Tom Sullivan, John Keogh, mayor Paul Tatchell, Eureka MP Michaela Settle, and Moorabool councillors Ally Munari and Moira Berry. (Supplied).

Just Believe retires

There were reflections, rounds of applause andplentyofcarrotsforharnessracinghero

Just Believe as he was officially welcomed into Living Legends on Thursday.

One of the sport’s most treasured names has joined fellow standardbred Sundons Giftandaround40thoroughbredstarsatthe stunning retirement facility in Greenvale.

More than 50 people were there for Just Believe’swelcomeincludingLivingLegends chiefDrAndrewClarkeandHarnessRacing Victoria chief executive Matt Isaacs.

Just Believe was retired in early 2025 after a wonderful career that included 38 wins and 23 placings.

Originally trained by Michael Hughes, it was Just Believe’s move to the Jess Tubbs stable in mid-2022 that ultimately saw him reach stardom. In 42 starts for Tubbs, he would win 30 of them.

He won 10 Group 1 races, highlighted by two Inter Dominion grand finals, a Great Southern Star, and the National Trot, Rowe Cup and Dominion Trot across the Tasman. He also claimed the inaugural TAB Trot slot race at Cambridge, which proved the most lucrative success of his career.

The late Greg Sugars partnered his great mate to 29 wins as a driver.

“The journey that Harry took us on truly changed our lives,” Tubbs said. “He took us to places and introduced us to people we never would have otherwise encountered.

“Winning races like the Inter Dominion, the Great Southern Star, the Rowe Cup and the NZ Dominion meant the world to Greg and I, and I’ll be forever grateful to Harry for enabling Greg to reach that top-level successthathesorichlydeserved.Thebond those two shared was incredible.

“Ihopeheenjoyshisnewhomeandlivesa long and happy future full of carrots.”

Just Believe’s place at Living Legends is thanks to a financial contribution from his

From page 1.

According to the council, at these sessions, community volunteers will assist locals with structuring and lodging submissions.

These are set to be hosted from 4–8pm on Thursday, July 24 at Lerderderg Library, 4–7.30pm on Thursday, July 31 at Myrniong Hall and from 10am to 1.30pm on Saturday, August 2 at the Ballan Council Chambers.

An AusNet spokesperson said the organisation understands that hosting infrastructure of this scale can be challenging for communities and welcomes the views of the community.

The spokesperson said anyone can make a submission on the EES which will then be considered by an independent planning panel run by Planning Panels Victoria.

“The minister for planning has specifieda40businessdayexhibition period for the WRL EES. This is longer than the usual 30 business day timeframeoutlinedintheministerial guidelines. The extended period reflects both the scale of the project and the high level of public interest,” the spokesperson said. There will be information sessions for the EES at MacPherson Park in HarknessonJuly29,from4-8pm,and atDarleyParkCommunityandSports Centre on August 1, from 4-8pm.

breeder-owner Pat Driscoll of Yabby Dam Farms and through a partnership between Harness Racing Victoria and Living Legends.

Just Believe has moved to Living Legends. (Supplied)

Artist pieces it all together

Georgia Tacey sits down with Sunbury artist Renee Broders in her home studio as she chats about her artistic process, favourite pieces and her recent exhibition where her artwork was projected onto the Broadmeadows Town Hall for the Hume Winter Lights Festival.

Walking into Renee Broders’ home studio is like taking a step inside her mind.

Eclectic, bright and colourful, just like thebrightpinkglassesperchedonherface.

Every inch of the small room is filled to the brim. Art supplies, trinkets, finished projects and ones she’s still tinkering with cover the space.

Thisishermind,heartandsoul,baredon display.

“I think if it was empty, I would feel lost,” Broders said.

“It’s a place where I go to feel found.

“It’s my heart, my home, but then sometimes I don’t want to come out here. I avoid it all together because it’s too much.”

These four walls are brimming with energyandcreativity,andBrodersthinksit might just be at capacity.

“I feel like I’m almost suffocating out here a little bit, but this for me is probably my favourite place to be at the same time,” she said. “You just sort of suffer for your own love, I suppose.”

Art has always called to Broders. From as young as five she was drawing, painting andmakinghermarkontheworldthrough her art.

Not everyone is going to love what you do and no one appeals to everybody. But I suppose you have to appeal more to yourself and the others will come

- Renee Broders

“I surround myself with as much creativity as I can, and I find that’s kind of wheremyheartlies.I’macreativeatheart,” she said.

At university, she studied print making and painting, thinking this was where her life would take her as an etcher, before painting took over.

“I think that’s part of the creative journey,” Broders said.

“You kind of fall into things and then you fall out of things, and if you take that sort of mindset, you’ll learn a lot more, I think, as an artist because you don’t get trapped.”

Now at 49, Broders is a mum-of-two, living with her husband and two sausage dogs in Sunbury, with a purpose-built home studio nestled in her backyard.

Known for her bright, bold, striking colours, abstract pieces and collages, Broders’ artwork steps into people’s mind and dives into emotion.

Represented by national group Studio Gallery Group, her artwork has been exhibited across the country. While she has had many career highlights, like being the featured artist of the 2023 Affordable Art Fair in Sydney, a mention in Vogue and multiple award recognitions, she said she takes all the big things in with the small.

One of the big will be her first solo exhibition with Studio Gallery Group which will be held in Sydney, featuring many of her paintings and some collage pieces.

And something smaller in her community, she plans to offer collage classes for those interested in learning more about the art.

Broders has exhibited all over Australia, but most recently was a part of an event close to home.

AsoneofthefeaturedartistsintheHume

Winter Lights Festival, Broders wowed the crowds with her whimsical interactive exhibition titled ‘Paper Dreams’.

“The piece was an animated and interactive digital collage, where I put together backgrounds with objects, all cut out of vintage paper, and then little charactersthatImakeonmyphone…were all sort of put together,” she said.

“Anybody that wanted to could come up and interact with the projection by using a software that was set up, so it became something that people could change and manipulate whilst it was playing out on the wall.”

Broders took inspiration from her daily commute to work and the characters you find on the train.

“It was just about life’s journey and just how as you travel along through your day, you see all sorts of weird things and a lot was inspired by riding the train,” she said.

She said the piece was really well received, with over 5000 people attending

the festival and catching a glimpse of her creation. To bring it to life, she worked with Nicholas Marriott and Sean Healy, an animator and software engineer.

“It was my first projection, and hopefully it will lead to more of the same because I think collage is a really interesting medium to work with, and it’s really good for storytelling,” she said.

“And when you work with an animator and a software designer you definitely can come up with pretty spectacular results.”

In her long-spanning career, there have been many stand out pieces, with many tackling mental health, emotions and societal issues.

One piece on display in her studio is one of Jeni Haynes, a Queensland woman who has over 2000 personalities.

Broders said after watching a 60 Minutes episode on Haynes, she reached out to her through Facebook, which resulted in her flying up to Queensland twice and staying with her, creating two pieces of art.

“Getting to know Jeni was probably the coolest part of that,” she said. In Haynes’ mind, every decision she makes is voted on by all her personalities, which prompted her to respond to Broders message, saying “two and a half thousand hands had come up to say yes, they wanted me to paint them”.

Broders said she uses a lot of negative spaceinherart,withthestorytoldthrough intricate, small details. At the core of her process is her wanting to share the inner workings of people’s minds with the world.

“I’vegotafeelingofwantingtotellstories about people’s lives and what’s important and embrace diversity, embrace change andchallenge.Allofthosethingsarereally important to me,” she said.

“Not everyone is going to love what you do and no one appeals to everybody. But I suppose you have to appeal more to yourself and the others will come.”

Search @arts7_5 on Instagram to find more for Broders’ work.

Renee Broders inside her home studio.

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 486598

Right: “Ruby Star“ c/o Studio Gallery Group. Artwork featured as Affordable Art Fair Sydney’s Campaign piece in 2023.

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An election to remember

Williamstown amateur historian Barb McNeill is Star Weekly’s history columnist. This week she tells the tale of a tense tussle over the seat of Melbourne Ports at the 1931 state election.

In 1931, politicians were making life miserable for everyone, what with diminished exports, government cutbacks, and Premier Lang’s reluctance to cough up the cash required to pay interest to Britain. The Great Depression was gnawing away at Australia, and Williamstown felt its bites keenly. However, when the legendary Phar Lap romped home to win the Underwood StakesatWilliamstown, everyonecheered up, though some gloomy souls predicted that this would be the last excitement for the year.

Their predictions were proved true and life resumed its dreary course. And then - William Howey came marching in from Port Melbourne, bursting with confidence that his credentials would ensure him glory in the forthcoming election. He was a returned soldier and a member of the recently formed United Australia Party. TheseatofMelbournePortshadbeenheld by Labor since 1906, but Mr Howey was 100 per cent certain that the electorate wouldgivethemthebootatbothstateand federal levels, and joyfully install him in the former.

WilliamstownTownHallwaspackedfor a meeting on 8 December. Amongst the usual hecklers was an intoxicated Martin Moore, loudly interjecting, much to the annoyance of Mr Howey, other speakers and the audience. Told by Constable Browne to behave himself, he stacked on such a turn that he had to be dragged outside kicking and biting. He was handcuffed to the Town Hall steps, where he sat swearing at Constable Morgan. He was duly hauled off to the police station, where he immediately attacked the watchhouse keeper, Constable Jones. At the Williamstown Court on 15 December, with just four days left until the voting stampedes began, Mr Moore had three charges to answer to: insulting words, obscene language and assaulting Constable Browne.

The defendant told a different story. He was the victim of police brutality having been punched and batoned by three burly policemen for no reason at all, and beaten to jelly by Constable Browne who had never heard of freedom of speech. It did him no good whatsoever. He was fined two pounds for insulting words, five pounds for obscene language and three pounds for assaulting police. Failure to pay would net him 21 weeks in the clink.

One the eve of the election, Mr Howey andhissupporters,decidingthatthe open air was better suited to spruiking than the TownHall, bellowedtheircampaignfrom a truck parked in Ferguson Street. One of thesesupporters,ThomasBriggsofLenore Crescent, walked into Ferguson Street to cheer for the UAP candidate.

This produced a very strange effect on Ernest Roberts of Rennie Street, who had just enjoyed wrecking an Electra Street political meeting with much jeering and howling down of various speakers. He spotted Mr Briggs standing near the lorry and stopped. Ernest Roberts harboured an intense dislike for Thomas Briggs and, followed by hundreds of men, headed straight towards him. Raising his voice above the racket made by the UAP, he screamed “Have you got Brother Briggs

there? The Christian brother with the Christian spirit?”

Briggsfacedhim.Robertsthengotdown to business by accusing Briggs of bringing sectarianism into Williamstown by virtue of having attended no fewer than seven different churches. “You’re a mongrel! A sectarian mongrel!” This he repeated several times loudly, albeit inaccurately, apparently confusing sectarianism with ecumenism.

Noting the army of heavies behind Mr Roberts, Briggs wisely said nothing. He may have been a Christian, but he was not willing to forgive and forget rude Mr Roberts of Rennie Street. He took him to court charged with insulting words.

Awitness,RobertFaulknerfromHannan Street who had been standing behind Briggs on the night, had seen Roberts near the truck and heard his accusations of bringing sectarianism to Williamstown. Briggs had merely replied, “Don’t be silly.”

Then anther witness, Robert Johnston of OsborneStreet,statedthathehadbeenon the lorry, and had seen Roberts confront

Briggswiththebackingofseveralhundred men behind him. Yes, Roberts accused Briggs of sectarianism, and mentioned several churches, but he hadn’t heard the word “mongrel”. In fact, the racket made by the spruikers and audience was such that it was a miracle that anyone could hear anything. Other witnesses agreed that the hellish hubbub made by Mr Howey, the shouts of his supporters, the clanging of bells and the jeering of political foes made it wildly improbable that Briggs could have heard a thing.

Mr Jackson, Justice of the Peace, had the wisdom of experience and allowed for tempers heating up at political meetings. He believed that the words had been used, but dismissed the case as a trifling matter, with each party to pay their own costs.

Disappointed by the anti-climax, the crowd filed out, but then Sergeant Ellis, keeping the peace at the court door, heard Robertssuddenly kickingupafearfulfuss about something. He rushed to report this to the Bench, and Roberts was recalled.

“What’s this all about?” demanded a

very fed-up Mr Jackson.

Mr Roberts was incandescent with rage. As he had left the court, Robert Johnston hadhissedintohisear,“Whydon’tyougive Briggs a nice kiss and become friends?”

Mr Jackson understood why this constituted an intolerable provocation and again demonstrated his wisdom by declaring the incident closed.

Mr William Howey, having learned what Williamstown could be like in the grip of political passions, was deeply demoralised. Rather than hankering for UAP gentlemen to usher in a new era of peace and prosperity, the locals seems to prefer tokickpolicemen, screamdrunken threats , wreck meetings, and haul one another into courts and police stations.

Mr Howey had done his utmost and nobody could blame him for all that had transpired. After all his heroic efforts, it would be pleasant to report a landslide win, but alas. The damage was done. So, who won the seat of Melbourne Ports? Jack Holloway, for the ALP and Mr Howey abandoned Williamstown to its fate.

Barb McNeill.

Bacchus building refused

The plan for a 15-dwelling development on Main Street in Bacchus Marsh was knocked back by Moorabool council, with the proposal receiving 10 community objections.

The proposal included developing 15 dwellings at 49 Main Street and creating access to a road.

At the July 16 council development assessment committee meeting, two public speakers discussed their concerns with the plan.

Speaker Kimberley Blundell said she was concerned about the impact the development would have on current

infrastructure and the neighbourhood.

“We understand that this land is going to be developed in the future, and we want to make it clear that we’re not against it being developed, we are against the plans that havebeenproposed,thescalethathasbeen proposed and the impact it will take on us,”

Ms Blundell said.

Another public speaker raised concerns around egress and ingress from the road andsaidatthemoment“there’sjustagravel track.”

“The idea of a lot of cars going up and down that gravel track is quite daunting,” the speaker said.

3D-printed housing on display

By Jaidyn Kennedy

A meeting that may influence the future of housing construction in Victoria recently took place in the west.

Housing minister Harriet Shing and Werribee MP John Lister visited a house being constructed by a 3D printer in Wyndham Vale on Thursday, July 17.

Among the features of the house, designed by AI and executed by the 3D printer, is a self-shading wall, a wall with airpockets,cavitiesforpowerconduitsand even a pizza oven.

Ahmed Mahil, the chief executive of Luyten, a 3D concrete printing technology company, led a tour around the site.

Mr Mahil said he believes 3D printing will allow small-to-medium-sized businesses to produce cheaper housing and overcome labour scarcity by replacing several trades involved in the traditional building process.

“We don’t believe the solution for the housing crisis lies in big builders being able to build more,” he said.

“We believe we are offering a tool for small business owners, and that is evident because we have sold to a number of companies in New South Wales.”

“We are replacing here five different trades and with the most resilient material – which is eco-friendly concrete.”

The house will actually be Mr Mahil’s own home.

“You know what, I have been preaching this for a while, I’m not going to just go and live in a traditional house, I am going to go live in a 3D-printed house,” he said.

Ms Shing said that innovative methods of construction will be part of addressing the challenge of providing more affordable housing at a faster pace.

“This is where 3D printing has proven to be a really significant player in the market globally,” she said.

“Across Scandinavia and the US in particular, 3D printing of homes and of buildings and of homes has been a really important part of making sure that the growth can be accommodated.”

Ms Shing said she is continuing to work with federal counterparts as part of a joint approach.

Mr Lister said he is excited about the opportunitiessuchtechnologycanprovide for Wyndham.

“Having sites like this here in Wyndham, shows that Wyndham has always been a place where innovation happens,” he said.

Accordingtocouncil,severaldiscussions were had with the applicant regarding the design and layout of the dwellings, and when a consultation meeting between the applicant and the objectors was requested, the applicant declined the offer.

Council planning officer Mark Lovell said the applicant was “quite firm that they did notwanttomediatewiththeobjectors“,and they were “very firm on their position with their plans”.

Intheofficer’sreport,itwasrecommended that council issue a refusal to grant a planning permit as the proposal was inconsistent with the council’s planning

scheme – particularly energy efficiency, urban design, building design, landscape, and neighbourhood character.

The report also stated the proposed development failed to adequately address the existing and preferred neighbourhood character–characterisedbyanopengarden settingandgeneroussidespacingsbetween dwellings – that it lacked diversity for 10 or more dwellings, and it failed to integrate with the surrounding developments due lack of setbacks, continuous built form and minimalsecludedprivateopenspaceareas.

The council voted in favour of issuing a notice of refusal to the applicant.

A 3D-printed wall, a 3D-printed wall at back of the house with air pockets, and a socket for power and irrigation pockets to flow through. (Pictures: Jaidyn Kennedy)

Luyten chief executive Ahmed Mahil explaining the building process of a 3D-printed house.

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 Centre

Melton South Community Centre’s term 3 program is available now and enrolments are open. View the program on the organisation’s website or visit the centre at 41 Exford Road. For enquiries, call or visit the centre.

 meltonsouth.org.au or 9747 8576

Intro to floristry course

Learn the art of flower arranging in Melton South Community Centre’s pre-accredited Intro to Floristry course from 6.30-9pm, Tues 28 July-16 Sept. A doorway to a career change or further study, this course will have you creating corsages, bouquets, centrepieces and more to take home each week. The course costs $145 or $100 concession. For enquiries and enrolments, call the centre.

 9747 8576

Melton CFA 90th year celebrations

Melton CFA was formed in 1935, and this year marks its 90th year of volunteer service to the community. The brigade is looking for past members to join celebrations on the evening of Saturday, August 23, with a function at Melton Entertainment Park, 2 Ferris Road, Melton. If this is you, contact the brigade by email for more details.

 meltonfb90@gmail.com

Probus Club of Melton Ladies

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

 Glenda, 0418 504 616

Grief Education Group

Described as “a group of people grieving the death of a loved one,” the Grief Education Group provides grief education, discussion and support at Melton Health on Wednesdays for six weeks from August 6 to September 10. If interested, please call Melton Health Intakes.

 9747 7609

Flower and Garden Show

Save the date for a local family event on the weekend of October 25 and 26 for the Bacchus Marsh Flower and Garden Show. Flowers, produce, crafts, photo competitions, plant sales, children’s activities, and more!

 bmflowershow.org

Over-50s Sunday games

Life Activities Club Melton is running a games and cards afternoon every Sunday from 2-4pm at Kurunjang Community Hub, 35 Mowbray Crescent, Kurunjang. A newly-created friendly group which enjoys sharing a laugh and making new friends. Everyone is welcome because “life is better together”.

 Denise, 0403 840 241

National seniors meeting

On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets atthe Deer Park Club, with meals available to purchase. The group also holds lunches on different Fridays each month, as well as activities such as theatre visits, bus trips and more.

 0425 713 004, or lesley1.collins@ outlook.com

Zonta club

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

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

This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Zoe, 11, who is playing Duffy in the Melbourne season of Annie the Musical at the Princess

489773_01

Melton Over 50s Social Group

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

 Marlene, 0498 329 290

Rose carers of Maddingley Park

The group meets every Wednesday from 10am-noon at the Commemorative Rose Garden, Maddingley Park on the corner of Taverner Street and Grant Streets, Bacchus Marsh. They maintain the two

month from 10am to noon at the Avenue Bowling Club on 254 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh Krystyna, bacchusmarshladiesprobus@ gmail.com

Melton Valley Ladies Probus

Melton Valley Ladies Probus Club meets on the second Friday each month at 10am at Melton Country Club. New members welcome. Ann, 0425 705 150

Sewing in Melton

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

9747 8576

Melton South Community Singers

Singers of all levels are welcome at the Melton South Community Singers! This free and friendly group meets at the Melton South Community Centre and rehearses to perform at local venues and events. The group meets from 12.15-2pm on the first and third Tuesday of each month and no bookings are required. Sue, 0400 082 413

Darley Neighbourhood House

The Darley Neighbourhood House and Learning Centre is at 33-35 Jonathan Drive, Darley. It offers free and low-cost activities for all. There is a monthly repair cafe, a community pantry, a fortnightly chatty cafe and venue hire is available. www.bit.ly/DNHnow, or 5367 4390

Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens

The Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens looks forward to meeting up with new members at the Andy Arnold Centre, 10 Bennett Street, Bacchus Marsh. hopem@optusnet.com.au

Fishing club

Didyabringyarodalong Angling Club of Melton and Bacchus Marsh is a fishing club that welcomes and encourages people of all ages, genders and fishing abilities to partake in enjoying the outdoors in a relaxing and friendly environment. The club holds monthly fishing competitions at various locations, fresh and saltwater. New members are most welcome. Upcoming events will be listed on this page. Andrew, 0407 303 438, or Wayne, 0414 785 366

Djerriwarrh Neighbourhood House

Enrolments are open for Term 3 at Djerriwarrh. Get in early and book your spot in one of its exciting new or returning programs. Get involved in craft, reading, games or wellbeing groups, or book into its cooking, art and gardening programs. Stay connected and try something new in a relaxed and welcoming space.

rose gardens at the park. Volunteers are welcome and no experience is necessary to join .

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

Women Working Together

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

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

Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club Meets on the first Thursday of every

 djerriwarrh.org.au/courses-programs/ workshops

Low Sugar Cooking Workshop

Learn to cook delicious meals with minimal added sugar in this hands-on class! Discover natural sugar alternatives, spot hidden sugars in everyday ingredients, and prepare balanced dishes that support healthy blood sugar levels. Plus, you’ll take home your meal! The workshop will run from 5.30–7.30pm on Wednesday, July 30. The session costs $15.

 rebeccah@djerriwarrh.org, or 8746 1000

Theatre. (Damjan Janevski)

Cut loose at fun musical

Why not kick off your Sunday shoes and head out to see Footloose the Musical?

The feel-good show is back as part of its encore season in Melbourne in response to audience demand.

Cairnlea resident, Chad Rosete, who performs as Travis and is a member of the ensemble,saidaudienceshavebeenloving the show.

“A lot of people come up to us after the show and say that they’re a huge fan of the movie. They remember the movie from when they were a teenager and say watching the show brought a sense of nostalgia for them,” said Chad.

Footloose tells the story of a teenage boy from Chicago, Ren McCormack, who moves to the small town of Bomont with his mother.

When he arrives in Bomont, the free-spirited Ren is shocked to find that dancing is outlawed in the town.

Ren then makes it his mission to bring the joy of dance back to the townspeople of Bomont who are healing from their own collective tragedy.

“Footloose is this high energy, feel-good, up-tempo musical that’s in the same category as Grease or Mamma Mia ...audiences can leave the show feeling like they’ve had so much fun,” said Chad.

Chad fell in love with singing and performing as a child, later developing a passion for musicals in high school.

After studying at the Australian Institute of Music and Jason Coleman’s Ministry of Dance, Chad made his first professional debut in Rent the musical last year.

Chad said the rehearsals for the encore season of Footloose were focused on making the show even bigger than it was the first time.

“We’re building on the show we had previously and I think it’s really coming into something that’s more refined and electric.”

Without revealing too much, Chad said one of the highlights of the show is a well-known musical number that features in the movie.

“It’s a good surprise…I don’t think audiences will expect it,” he said.

Footloose the Musical is showing at the Athaneum Theatre with performances running until Sunday, August 17.

Tickets and more info: www. footloosethemusical.com

Debbie Van Ravenstein at her Pour Paint exhibition.

(Damjan Janevski) 488447_01

Significant milestone in first exhibition

Swirling colours come together on canvas in a new artist’s exhibition.

Debbie Van Ravenstein’s love for art has been reignited in her later years, and is proudtoshowcaseherveryfirstexhibition, ‘Pour Paint’ in the Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre.

“I’ve always been into art, all my life, I just didn’t know how to start,” she said.

After learning the pouring technique through watching YouTube, Van Ravenstein decided to buy all the supplies and try it out herself.

“I like doing it, so I kept doing it, and the paintings just turned out the way they

turned out,” she said.

Colours collide and melt together in her paintings, creating shapes and faces in the way the paint falls.

Using fluid, layered colours, she explores movement and emotion through her art and mindfulness.

While apprehensive at first, her occupational therapist helped convince her to take part, to which Van Ravenstein said she couldn’t have done it without her.

Going into the exhibition, Van Ravenstein didn’t think a single painting would sell. That became her goal, which she completely smashed by now selling

four pieces of her collection.

“I never thought any would sell,” she said.

When the exhibition opened back in April, the opening night was one of her highlights, being one of the last to leave.

“To hear the mayor mention my name, andhimwantingtomeetme,Ican’tbelieve that happened,” Van Ravenstein said.

Pour Paint’s run at the Sunbury Hume Global Learning Centre has now been extended to Sunday, October 5.

Both other exhibitions have been extendedatthegallerysectionaswelluntil this date.

Instrumentalist brings Celtic music to Little River

The magic and mystique of Celtic music will grace Little River when multiinstrumentalist Rennie Pearson comes to town next month.

Channelling the traditions of Ireland, Scotland and Maritime Canada, the virtuoso’s wooden flute, Irish whistles, guitar, fiddle, bodhrán, and voice will tell tales old and new.

While his first guest slot in a festival camein2011,MrPearson’smusicaljourney started long before.

“Actually when I was a baby, I had the music [playing] around the house on CDs and my grandparents had Riverdance on VHS,” he said.

“I was completely entranced by it.”

It might be better to let one of the best proponents of Celtic music explain what is

so special about it.

“There is so much joy contained in it, but also so much hardship– it makes you want to leap out of the chair and dance,”

Mr Pearson said. “The melodies have

these ethereal qualities that go beyond the mortal realm, and the driving rhythms are dance music through and through.”

“Another one is the connection with ancient times, it’s kind of got this otherworldly element where the tunes and songs have been passed down.”

TheLittleRiverMechanicsInstituteHall, where the show is taking place on Sunday, August17,mightjustbetheperfectplaceto channel these tunes.

“When the local community comes together to share an evening of live music, there’s a crackling energy in the room— banter and music flow freely, and it’s an absolute joy to be a part of,” Mr Pearson said.

Tickets: https://www.renniepearson music.com/

An exhibition in Bacchus Marsh of poetry by Moorabool poet, artist, and storyteller Barry James Gilson is sharing local stories, education, and a sense of place.

Running until July 31 at MAPP Gallery Bacchus Marsh, the original poem by Gilson shares personal and local themes.

“The whole concept was basically from the connection I have being a Wadawurrung person and … Kirrit Barrett– or Gordon – I’ve been living there all my life,” Gilson said.

“Just about every weekend when I was a little fella, I used to walk down to the Bostock Reservoir … it used to be a natural sort of watercourse that flowed from the water from under Kirrit Barrett and it’s called Paddock Creek now, but it was called Kangaroo Creek,” he said.

Gilson said that he used to follow the creek all the way down to the muddy flats of what is now the Bostock Reservoir.

“Itwasjustmudflatsandalongside it were inland mussels – they were called Timboo – now they were an inland mussel, a freshwater mussel, andtheywereinabsoluteabundance everywhere,” he said.

Gilson said after the waterway was dammed, the presence of it was changed, and he did not see the mussels at the site any more.

“I used to light a little fire and cook these little things in there and eat them. I didn’t know at the time that it was a bush food that my family had been eating for thousands of years,” he said.

“That’s basically a local story of the place … I write stories about all places and collect the information, so hopefully one day I’ll get a book together that people can learn from after I’m gone … because if these stories aren’t collected – well, they’re lost.”

It is through this storytelling that Gilson hopes to educate people and provide a deeper understanding and sense of place.

Gilson’s poetry is being exhibited atMAPPUpinLightsBacchusMarsh at the Village Green, 197 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh, until July 31.

Details: moorabool.vic.gov. au/Services-and-support/ Arts-and-culture/Artistopportunities/MAPP-Up-in-Lights

Rennie Pearson. (Supplied).

Brimbank local, Chad Rosete, stars in Footloose the Musical. (Supplied)

SPORTS QUIZ

1. After over 10 years of professional racing, which Australian sprint cyclist announced his retirement in May 2025?

2. Nearing $50,000 in total, who is the most fined player in AFL/VFL history?

3. What is the nationality of Jasper Philipsen, the winner of the first stage of the 2025 Tour de France?

4. Slovenia’s Tadej Pogacar has won three Tour de France titles competing for what team?

5. Achieved in July 2024, what is tennis player Alex de Minaur’s highest-ever

Who is the all-time leading points scorer in the NRL?

A famous Aussie with the same name plays in what other sport?

8. Which is the only team in the US NFL to have never hosted nor played in the Super Bowl?

In which winter sport are the terms ‘stale fish’ and ‘mule kick’ used?

Which NBL team is from

The third Test against the West Indies marked which Australian cricketer’s 100th Test?

12. Which ultra-successful F1 team recently sacked its team principal after 20 years?

13. Which Maroons player was named man of the series for State of Origin 2025?

14. How many squares does a chess board have?

15. South African Wiaan Mulder scored a monumental 367 not out against which cricketing nation?

16. Super Bowl I in 1967 was won by which team?

17. Which three clubs entered the VFL 100 years ago in 1925?

18. Maro Itoje is the captain of the British & Irish Lions and which nation?

19. Who will coach Port Adelaide in 2026 following Ken Hinkley’s final season with the AFL club?

20. Which Indian batsman scored 430 runs (269 and 161) against England in the second Test, the second-highest aggregate in Test cricket history?

21. Who did Jannik Sinner defeat in the recent Wimbledon men’s singles final?

22. Which three A-League teams will Wrexham AFC play on their Australian and New Zealand tour?

23. Which politician presented Chelsea with the winning trophy in the recent Club World Cup final?

24. Prior to 2025, in what year did a fully-fit Nathan Lyon last not play in a Test match for Australia?

25. How many Sheffield Shield teams has Usman Khawaja played for during his career?

26. West Coast player Jack Graham was recently suspended for how many games due to an on-field incident?

27. Who is the current coach of the Gold Coast Titans?

28. Golfer Grace Kim was born in which Australian city?

29. How many countries boycotted the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games?

30. Birdman is the mascot of which NBL team?

YOUR NEW CAREER

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

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

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

Applicants will need their own reliable vehicle for which we will provide an allowance. The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.

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

Alex de Minaur

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

1 Assail (5)

4 Keep trying (9)

9 Ancestry (7)

10 Stinging plants (7)

11 Deliverance from harm (9)

12 Restore (5)

13 Stun (3)

14 Entitlement (11)

16 Impossible to rectify (11)

19 Be in debt (3)

20 Of them (5)

22 Helper (9)

25 Japanese paper art form (7)

26 Instructs; improves (7)

27 Without paths (9)

28 Varieties (5)

DOWN

1 Girdles (5)

2 Plant with large yellow head and edible seeds (9)

3 Jewelled coronet (5)

4 Officiate (7)

5 Encounter (3,4)

6 Pull up by the roots (9)

7 US comedian,

– DeGeneres (5)

8 Not here (9)

13 Sleeveless garment worn over a shirt (9)

14 As opposed to hardcover (9)

15 Quarantine (9)

17 Understand clearly (7)

18 Woven containers (7)

21 Nickname of Eva Perón (5)

23 Deft (5)

24 Check-ups (5)

1 Name the mineral known as 'fool's gold'.

2 For which animated Disney Channel series did Solange Knowles (pictured) sing the title theme song?

3 In culinary terms, what does 'au gratin' mean?

4 Which video game company published The Sims?

5 Tibet's Potala Palace houses the tombs of how many Dalai Lamas?

6 Which late author was best known for their Discworld series of 41 novels?

7 In which Australian city were KeepCups first created and sold?

8 What colour is coquelicot?

9 TangointheNight, The Dance and Mirage are albums by which British-American rock band?

10 The erhu, a Chinese musical instrument, has how many strings?

Haval drives value further

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Great Wall Motors (aka GWM) continues to lead the way in China’s surge into the Australian new vehicle market, currently sittinginseventhplaceoverall.

Nearly two-thirds of these sales come from the Haval sub-brand and its Joleon andH6SUVs.

The larger of the pair, the H6, has been here since 2017 and has grown steadily in the highly-competitive medium SUV segment against big-hitters like RAV4, Outlander,CX-5andSportage.

Originally petrol-only, it added a conventionalpetrol/electrichybridvariant in 2022, followed in early 2025 by GWM’s firsteverPlug-InHybrid(PHEV)vehicle.

Both hybrids come to Australia in the top-spec GT Ultra model with a high level of safety equipment and technology. The PHEV that we’re testing here is priced at $55,990driveaway.That’s$9500morethan thehybrid.

Thatpricehasitsittingmidwaybetween the Mitsubishi Outlander, Mazda CX-60 and Jeep Compass and the Chinese BYD Sealion 6, HG HS and Jaecoo J7. Importantly, it does significantly outdo all of these rivals with its claimed EV-only rangeof180kilometres.Moreonthatlater.

Styling

The H6 GT streamlines the body to the extent that GWM tags it as an SUV Coupe in line with the recent trend adopted by otherbrandstoescapefromthetraditional boxyprofile.

It certainly works and combined with the other styling elements gives it a real premium look that could easily pass, not onlyforitsbig-sellingJapaneseandKorean rivals but even for much more expensive EuropeanSUVs.

These styling elements include body-coloured side panels that extend the grille to the edge of the vehicle, LED lighting in twin rectangular headlights that wrap around the front, LED daytime running lights, LED foglights, taillights andafull-widthlightingpanel.

There are 19-inch alloy wheels with red brakecalipers.

In a search for brand recognition in previous models the ‘Haval’ name is emblazoned across the front and rear in large, bold letters at the front and rear. Consistent sales growth means that’s no longer needed and they’ve been replaced bymuchsmallerandmoresubtlebadging.

There are five exterior colour choices, HamiltonWhiteisstandard,theotherfour are$495options.

Interior

It’s hard to fault anything inside the H6 Hybrid Ultra PHEV with a real feeling of qualitythroughout.

Comfortek front leather seats are heated and ventilated with the driver having an eight-way power adjustment, heated leather steering wheel and a head-up display.

There’s good storage space with adjustable twin drink holders and a large storagebininthecentreconsole.

There’s dual-zone air conditioning which, together with a flat rear floor, good foot, leg and headroom, and the panoramic sunroof make for a pleasant environment for rear passengers. There’s a centre armrest with two cupholders and airvents.

At the back there’s a powered tailgate which opens out to a 600-litre boot, expandable to 1485 litres with the rear seatbacksfolded.

The batteries are located beneath the false floor taking up the space where a spare wheel would otherwise be stored leaving a puncture repair kit as the only option.

Powertrain

The Haval PHEV combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with two electric motors, one at the front and one at the rear.

The engine alone generates 110kW and 230Nm. The batteries add 135kW for combinedoutputsof321kWand762Nm.

Thetwosystemsworktogethersmoothly with the battery providing instant torque attake-offandtheturbochargerkickingin athigherrevs.

Power is sent to all four wheels through GWM’s two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission electronically controlled transmission.

Safety

The Haval H6 Hybrid comes with an impressivesuiteofsafetyfeaturesthathave contributed to it getting the maximum 5-StarANCAPrating.

There are seven airbags; enhanced ABS brakes with brake assist, cornering brake controlandbrakeoverride,rollmovement intervention, hill descent and hill-start control,frontandrearparkingassistanda 360-degreecamera.

Other features include automatic parking, adaptive cruise control, intelligent cornering control, rear cross traffic alert and braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning and correction; autonomous emergency braking including pedestrian and cyclists, traffic sign recognition, blind spot

detection, rear collision warning, driver drowsiness detection and two IsoFix child seatanchors.

Infotainment

Access is through two large colour displays, a centrally-mounted 12.3-inch touchscreen for the infotainment features and a 10.25-inch instrument cluster behindthesteeringwheelfordrivingdata.

As is the growing trend there are no raised physical knobs for the most commonly-used features such as audio system and air conditioning meaning a series of taps on the screen for adjusting sound.Therearesomeshortcutbuttonson thesideofthescreenandothercontrolson thesteeringwheel.

Thereisnoembeddedsatellitenavigation so access needs to be made through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (both wired) or direct from the smartphone via Bluetooth. There is a wireless smartphone charging onthefrontconsole.

There are five USB ports, three in the frontandtwoattherear.

Driving

HavalH6isatthelargerendofitssegment and entry is quite easy. While the seats are adjustable in most directions the base can’t be tilted and we found them a little uncomfortable.

Take-off is by battery only with the instant acceleration that we love. The zero to 100 km/h sprint can be done in just 4.9 seconds.

There are two different EV modes that both default to electric only driving and only switch to the engine when needed for hard acceleration or when the battery

chargeislow.

The combination of the smaller turbo engine and batteries mean that the H6 Hybridcruisesquietly.Brakeregeneration can be adjusted and monitored on the driver’sdisplay.

Out in the rural segment of our teat route the H6 Hybrid provides a surprisingly enjoyable drive with plenty of punch when needed. The ride was a bit spongy at times and handling was typical ofmostSUVs.

Fuel consumption is listed at 5.2 litres per100km,weaveragejustunder6.0L/100 kmduringourtest.

Summing up

Thejury’sstilloutonthebenefitsofplug-in hybrid vehicles in their role between conventional hybrids and full electric vehicles.

While PHEVs do eliminate the range anxiety that remains one of the major concerns for potential EV buyers the relatively small batteries in most PHEVs means that their electric-only driving range only sits around 50 kilometres and afterthat,unlessre-charged,theybecome just another hybrid, but one that typically costs about $10k more than equivalent hybrids.

While the Haval H6 PHEV does cost $9000 more than the H6 Hybrid, it does provide significantly greater range, listed at 180km. Even if that equates to 150km in real-life driving conditions it makes for a much more attractive option than all of its rivals.

With the 55-litre fuel tank full and battery charged, GWM claims a driving rangeof1000kilometres.

While the Haval H6 PHEV costs $9000 more than the H6 Hybrid, it provides significantly greater range. (Pictures: Supplied)

Local sport on Saturday had the added intrigue of wind making things a little bit more tricky. Star Weekly photographer LJUBICA VRANKOVIC was out shooting some of the action.

Wind tests weekend play

Altona Gators men’s side. 490086_01

Diggers Rest’s Matthew Krul and Riddell’s Ben Taylor. 490807_14

Glenroy’s Zac Smith and Westmeadows’ Michael Mayne. 489371_09

Lancefield’s Alice Bromley. 490796_04

Craigieburn’s Abe Solano. 490086_09

Lancefield’s Carolyn Cusack. 490796_12

Craigieburn’s Luke Tropeano. 490086_17

Lancefield’s Keiley Walker and Alex Cairney. 490796_02

Riddell’s Dylan Podolczak and Diggers Rest’s Ryan Lewis. 490807_18

Riddell’s Tommy Alkemade. 490807_01

Westmeadows’ Aaron Evans. 89371_13

Westmeadows’ Korey Flavel-Wood goes to lay a tackle. 489371_04

Hillside is starting to put it all together in division 1

Hillside is putting together a decent block of games as it aims for a double chance in the Essendon District Football League division 1 competition.

The Sharks on Saturday produced one of its best performances of the season on Saturday, accounting for Avondale Heights, which is sitting above them on the ladder.

It was all the Sharks in the first half as they led by 42 points at the main break before the margin blew out to 74 heading into the final quarter.

While Avondale won the final quarter, the game was already over with the Sharks winning, 16.21 (117)-5.10 (40).

SharkscoachMoKaakoursaidtheywere putting together some more consistent football.

“The performance was great against a pretty good side,” he said. “The first time we played them we matched up well.

“They controlled the stoppages the first time round. We wanted to make sure we were controlling the stoppages post clearance and

get the ball deep in windy conditions.

“We were able to get repeat inside 50s from our forward pressure.”

Kaakour said they used the ball better than Avondale and didn’t allow the opposition to have time with ball in hand.

Josh Covelli kicked three goals for the Sharks, while Fort and Nat Caruso, and Khalil Kaakour kicked two goals each.

Kaakour said it was a really well rounded performance from the side.

Noak Asciak, Kakkour, Tristan Rudic, Fort Caruso and Robbie Castello were some of the standouts

The development of Asciak, in his first full season at senior level, has been one of the big pluses out of the early season injury woes.

“He took on the role against Danko [Bzenic] and perfected that,” Kaakour said.

“He’s played a few different roles. He was in the midfield early when we didn’t have any big bodied mids.

“He has now gone back and playing on the opposition’s best hybrid forward.”

Kaakour said they were still yet to get their full side on the park this year.

Skipper Zak Wunhym is set to return this week against Roxburgh Park.

Lucas Falli is a couple of weeks ago, while Nicholas Karakyriakos is missing with a hamstring injury.

They are also hoping Mitch Hearne, who hasn’t played since round one, will also return.

The win moved the Sharks to third, percentage ahead of Avondale Heights.

The Sharks face Roxburgh Park this week.

Kaakoursaidtheladderreflectiondidn’t reflect the side the Magpies have and they were expecting a tough hitout.

The Sharks women’s side had a big win in premier division, beating Greenvale, 21.16 (142)-0.1 (1).

Tara Murray

Burras cement lead

By Tara Murray

Diggers Rest isn’t planning on taking the footoffthepedalaftergoingonestepcloser to claiming the Riddell District Football League minor premiership.

For the second time this season, the Burras proved too strong in the top of the table clash with Riddell.

This time the Burras set the win up in the first quarter.

Kicking five goals to one with the breeze they were able to maintain that lead through the next two quarters.

While the Bombers came hard late, the Burras were able to steady and come away with a 15.9 (99)-11.11 (77) win.

Burras coach Shaun Campbell said these were the sort of matches that they looked forward to.

“It’s a good spot to be in,” he said. “You always want to be involved in the games with the top teams and test yourselves before finals.

“It’s a timely reminder of the quality side

that they are.”

Campbell said they used the breeze well early on to set up the lead before strong defendingkepttheBombersatbaythenext couple of quarters.

He said the Bombers threw everything at them late, but they were able to hold on.

“It was a good quality performance as a team,” Campbell said. “We don’t want to rely on our back end of games.

“We’ve been able to start well and finish strongly and maintain it through the middle period.”

Campbell and Jaidyn Caruana kicked three goals each for the Burras.

The coach said they had a theme of a lot of contributors at the same time and it was the case again on Saturday.

Hesaidtheycouldhavethrownablanket over10to15ofthem.Campbellhighlighted Tye Browning, Ryan Mullen, Brad Sluggett and Caruana as some of the standouts.

The Burras now sit half a game clear at the top of the ladder ahead of the Bombers, but have played one less game.

Sports shorts

A-League

Ben Garuccio will continue leading Western United into its exciting future after putting pen to paper on a new two-year deal at Ironbark Fields. Captaining the side in its first full season in Tarneit in 2024-25, Garuccio’s commitment means he will continue to spearhead the team into a new era in the A-League men’s competition.

Western FL

Caroline Springs remains undefeated as it accounted for Werribee Centrals in the Western Football League women’s competition. The second rematch of last season’s grand final, the Lakers proved too strong as they came away with a 7.7 (49)-2.4 (16) win. Jacinta Kondis kicked three goals for the Lakers, while Caitlin Pretty was named their best. The Lakers remain one game clear of Parkside Spurs at the top of the ladder.

Ballarat NL

Campbell said they still have to continue to get better and keep on building.

He said he had been debating about how to approach the last month of the season.

“It’s a good spot to be in and we don’t want to be losing momentum,” he said.

“We want to try and maintain the momentum. I’ve been thinking about it for the last 24 hours.

“You don’t want to lose to others and give them a sniff or that psychological benefit.

“We’ll look to keep doing what we have been doing.”

The Burras this Saturday face Woodend-Hesket, which is coming off two straight wins.

It’s the first time the teams will play each other for the season.

Inotherresults,MeltonSouthisinafight for a finals spot after another loss, this time to Romsey.

The Redbacks led narrowly at each of the breaks as they won, 10.9 (69)-7.13 (55).

The Panthers sit in sixth spot, with just two points separating fourth and seventh.

Darley claimed the points in the local derby, while Melton got a rare win in the Ballarat Netball League on Saturday. The Devils were at home to an improved Bacchus Marsh. The Devils led at every break on the way toa 58-34 win. Monique Nagle shot 28 goals for the Devils. In a bonus for the Devils, Melbourne Mavericks training partners Montana Holmes has joined the side for the rest of the season. Elsewhere, Melton beat Sebastopol.

FV

Melton Phoenix suffered a second straight loss in the FV state league 4 west competition to put a dent in the side’s promotions hopes. In the top of the table clash on Saturday, the Phoenix lost to Balmoral, 3-1. Westside Strikers, who entered the round in third spot, suffered a 2-1 loss to Point Cook. Balmoral now sits five points clear of the Phoenix and six points clear of Westside Strikers. In FV state league 5 west, Spring Hills lost to Ocean Grove, 1-0.

Lachlan Henson. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 427096_07

Mitchell Day is put under pressure. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 490807_10

Lions building depth as they look to an exciting future

There is plenty of positivity coming out of Melton in the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association off season.

Coming off a tough season results wise, the Lions feel like they are heading in the right direction.

Coach Damian Costigan knew heading intolastseasonitwasamatterofpatience.

“Last year was a lean year especially in the top grade in terms of success,” he said.

“We see a lot of potential in the group that we already have and the biggest thing was the retention of most of the squad and wanted to build on that.

“We’re keen to see what we can do.”

The Lions recently announced their first new signings for the new season. He said himself and Joel Mitchener had done a lot of working looking to bring in the right players.

David Mansfield and Archie Cairns are both joining the club from England.

“We think the two overseas guys offer

something different with the bat and ball,” he said.

“David is a bowling all rounder. He adds experience in the middle order and offers some off spin for us.

“Dylan [Jobson], one of our quicks, is over there and playing with Archie. He bowls a heavy ball and will add to the depth of our quick bowlers.

“We’re looking forward to seeing both of those guys.”

Prabjot Singh Gill will bring some Victorian Premier Cricket experience to the side having played at MCC.

The Lions have also looked locally, adding Max Howell, Alex Nichols, Jayden Schwarze and Spencer Paton all joining the club from the Gisborne and District Cricket Association.

Costigan said they were keen to target some experienced players with a young list throughout all the grades.

Last season’s skipper Brenton Cook has

left the club to join Gisborne, while their two imports from last year are also not returning.

As well as the new recruits, Costigan said they were hoping that the current playing group would step up.

Jobson,MitchenerandJasonHibbertare all playing in England in the off season.

“It’s the first time they’ve done that and the feedback is that they are learning a lot about themselves playing in different conditions,” he said.

“Those three will be better coming back to us.

“Speaking to a lot of other guys they are already putting in a work which excited me as a coach.

“In their own time they’re doing the hard work now. Some young fellows are trailing for rep sides.

“I’m excited to see that they are working hard and what they will produce.”

Warriors show fight

The Western Warriors limped to the line in the Victorian Netball League on Wednesday night.

With injuries and unavailability, the Warriors were limited in what they could dointheirfinalmatchoftheseasonagainst a finals-bound Hawks side.

The Warriors had a slow start on Wednesdaynight,andtrailedby16goalsat the main break.

Not known for their strong second halves, the Warriors showed some fight to win the final half by one goal.

But the damage had already been done with the Hawks winning 67-52.

Coach Kim Bailey said they finished the season OK against a very strong side.

She said last time they played the Hawks it was one of their worst performances of the season and they showed some improvement.

“They just supply relentless pressure,” she said of the Hawks.

“They closed the ball down at every opportunityandwedidn’treallyknowhow

to respond to that.

“At half time we regathered and I think we had a really good second half. But they blew us out of the water in the first half.

“Abitofaflipofwhathasbeenhappening for us.”

Already without Tayla Honey with a hyperextended elbow and no Molly Kennedy, the Warriors were dealt another blow late with Elly Randall unable to get out of work and being a late out.

Itleftthemwithonlytwocircledefenders for the match.

Bailey said they were trying to scrap through to the end of the season but she was happy with how they finished in the second half of the final game.

Kim Borger finished with 27 goals for the Warriors, while Rebecca Hicks shot 20.

The Warriors finish with six wins of the season, the same as their first season. They finished in eighth spot.

Bailey said the two seasons were very different.

“I think this season we were more united

Thoroughbreds hold strong

Melton Thoroughbreds needed all 40 minutes to get over the line against the Southern Peninsula Sharks on Saturday night.

The Sharks went into the match as favourites having won five more gamesthantheThoroughbreds.

It was the away team in the Thoroughbreds that started the better ofthetwosidesandledbyeightpoints atquartertime.

The margin slightly increased to ninepointsathalftime.

It was all the Sharks in the third quarter as the lead evaporated with a 23-10 quarter to open up a four point leadheadingintothefinalquarter.

The two sides traded the lead throughout the first eight minutes of thequarter.

A go ahead basket gave the Thoroughbreds a two point lead with twominutestogo.

The Sharks had some chances to level the score and take back the lead, butcouldn’tfindthebasketstheywere after.

The foul game started with the Thoroughbreds hitting their shots to win,76-72.

Playing with just eight players, the Thoroughbreds shared the points around with Calvin Jazmin top scoringwith17offthebench.

The Thoroughbreds sit in sixth spot withfourwinsand13losses.

Melton will finish its season on SaturdaynightagainsttheSherbrooke Suns.

and you could see that we were coming together as a club,” she said.

“It was a very even season with lots of teams around the same position on the ladder. It is tough.

“Brillant players in there. We would have liked to go one more [win] up on last year, but that is just the nature of the beast.”

Bailey said they had seen some real developmentintheirsquadthroughoutthe season.

She highlighted Sarah Croft, who has become an amazing midcourter, while Hicks has stepped straight into the championship side and done a great job in goals.

The match was the final VNL game for captain Kim Borger, who has announced her retirement at this level.

The Warriors 23 and under side finished the season with a 62-52 loss.

The Warriors finished in 10th spot with four wins, 13 losses and a draw.

Tara Murray

The Thoroughbreds youth league division 3 side finished its season on Sunday,losingtoWarrandyte,93-62. Campbell Jones and Ryan Woolley scored 13 points each for the Thoroughbreds.

TheThoroughbredsfinishedbottom withthreewins.

Calvin Jazmin. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 484129_08

Tara Murray Max Howell. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 435782_03

Western Warriors’ Kim Bailey. (Grant Treeby/Netball Victoria)

Im Bobby powers to third straight win in dominant display

Im Bobby confirmed his status as the most improved trotter in the state after he completed a hat trick of metropolitan wins at Melton on Saturday night.

The Eddie Tappe prepared six-year-old saluted at Melton four weeks ago in the slick mile rate of 1:53.9. before scoring a comfortable win in a ‘hit and run’ visit to Menangle last week.

With Tasmyn Potter deputizing for James Herbertson, Im Bobby showed his customary early speed to wrest the early lead off Mufasa Metro inside the first 100 metres of the race before gaining a 31 second quarter ‘breather’.

Reeling off a 56.8 last 800 metres, Im Bobby was untroubled to defeat Mufasa

Metro by five metres with Imperial Monarch six metres away third in a mile rate of 1:54.8.

Potter said she persevered at the start despite the slick beginning from Mufasa Metro.

“He mustered late which helped because Ewa (Justice) was kicking up on Mufasa Metro,” Potter said.

The 23-year-old Potter conceded Im Bobby has progressed since partnering him to a win at Bendigo in January.

“He has certainly stepped it up since then and he feels like a really nice horse, he sort of knocked off when there was nothing around him but Im sure he would keep going if another one came up to him,”

she said.

Earlier in the night the lightly raced five-year-old Gotfeelingsyouknow launched a memorable night for the Chris Svanosio stable when he outclassed his rivals in the IRT Trot.

With Ross Payne in the sulky, Gotfeelingsyouknow speared off the gate to lead from his mid-front row draw, and despite trotting roughly in the home straight, had sufficient in hand to score by eight metres from Rapid Return.

Payne said the son of Majestic Son was still a work in progress.

“Ifwecanjustworkoutwhyheistrotting like that in the last quarter, I was really hanging on to him to keep him in his gait

Borger’s VNL hurrah

By Tara Murray

It was an emotional end to the Western Warriors season with inaugural player and captain Kim Borger playing her final game in the Victorian Netball League.

One of the star shooters of the competition, Borger has had an impact across a number of clubs.

Having been part of the Hunter Jaguars squad and then the New South Wales Swifts, Borger made the move to Victoria in 2016 as an injury replacement for the Melbourne Vixens.

It’s when she first stepped into the VNL, with the Monash Storm and then when it became the Hawks winning the Marg Caldow medal as the best player in the competition in 2018.

A successful stint in the United Kingdom with Bath then called before returning to theVNLin2023withtheCityWestFalcons.

That time was limited with Borger earning another call up to the Vixens as a replacement player. Borger was part of the Falcons premiership that year.

She would then move to the Warriors and help establish the club in Melbourne’s west.

Borger said it was a pretty emotional moment with her career coming to an end.

“It was really lovely,” she said after her final game. “It was a bit of an emotional check and I had to sort of reel it in at the start of the game, I was a bit emotional.

“I even got nervous which is a bit unusual for me. Usually get on and get the job done, and go from there.

“It’s nice to be supported and loved.”

Borger said coming back to the VNL after her professional career was over had been a real full circle for her.

She said finishing her career in the western suburbs was pretty special.

“I’ve always lived in the west when I’ve lived in Melbourne,” she said. “It’s nice to give back to my western suburbs community and actually not have to travel too far for training for once in my life.

“I used to travel six hours one way for training, 15 minutes has been dream”

Borger said the biggest thing out of her time in the VNL had been the amazing teammates that had turned into friends.

She said the connection with coaches, like Warriors coach Kim Bailey, was also pretty special.

Bailey was full of praise for her star shooter and what she had done for the club.

“She is really such an important part of our club,” she said.

“The leadership that she brings and the experienceandtheadviceshehasgivento all the players has been invaluable.

“We’ll really miss her. She’s not going to get off that easy, we’re not going to let her get away.

“She’ll still be here in some sort of

capacity, really whatever she wants to do.

“I’m really proud of Kim. The loyalty that she has shown to me and the club.”

Borger won’t be lost to netball.

She’ll continue to coach in her many capacities across the western suburbs and continue to be around netball, just not on

and something is just not right and I think it’s in behind,” Payne said.

“We’ve got to get it right because he can go all the way to the top,” he said.

Payne believes the winner has the potential to reach the heights of stable mate and newly crowned Inter Dominion champion Arcee Phoenix.

“He’s not too far behind him,” he said.

The 68-year-old Payne still has the passion for driving winners

“I’ve loved driving ever since I started and I said if I ever lose the hunger then that will be it and I will walk away, but I’m hungrier than ever- I love driving trotters and always have.”

John Dunne

Devils score a double delight

Darley claimed the honours in the local derby as it was able to hold off Bacchus Marsh in the Ballarat Football League on Saturday.

Both teams entered the match in some good form, adding to the already much anticipated contest.

The Cobras narrowly led at quarter timebeforetheDevilsturnedintothe main break leading by a goal.

The margin was decreased by just one point in the third quarter to set up a thriller.

The Devils kicked the first three goals of the last quarter to give themselves some breathing room, beforetheCobraskickedthenexttwo to give themselves a chance.

A Grant Hatcher goal would be the sealerfortheDevilsastheyclaimeda 15.5 (95)-11.12 (78) win.

Jayven Tanner kicked five goals for the Devils, with Joel Cadman and Hatcher kicking two goals each.

Michael Edwards and Jarrod White were named the Devils best.

Luke Goetz and Jamie Fulton were named the Cobras best in the loss.

The Devils sit a game clear on top oftheladder,whileBacchusMarshin fifth spot.

It was a big day for the two clubs, with their women’s sides facing off after the men.

Darley got some revenge back on the Cobras after losing last time with a big win, 11.13 (79)-5.4 (34).

KimBessellkickedfivegoalsforthe Devils.

Amy Garofalo, Indi Stanley and Melanie Freeman were named the best for the Cobras.

In the final round of the regular season, the Devils face Redan for the minor premiership and Bacchus Marsh is at home to East Point.

a VNL court.

“I love being able to give back to the community, particularly ones that don’t always have the luxury of getting those coachings.

“Being a country girl I like to give back to those sorts of areas.”

Michael Edwards. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 474079_13

Kim Borger. (Grant Treeby/Netball Victoria)

BACCHUS MARSH