‘Cruel’ levy to hit farmers Striding for autism
Moorabool farmers are being forced to make difficult decisions as they face drought challenges and increased rates under the new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF).
Passed in state parliament in the early hours of May 16, the ESVF will replace the former Fire Services Property Levy from July 1.
TheESVFwillbecalculatedonafixedcharge that varies by property type, and a variable charge based on property value and will be charged alongside council rates.
The government agreed to amendments to theESVFbeforeitpassedparliament,including reducing the planned levy increase for farmers from 189 per cent to 150 per cent.
It also included providing partial rebates for farmers eligible for the infrastructure grants programinthestate’sdroughtsupportpackage.
The government also legislated that 95 per cent of VICSES and CFA funding will come from ESVF and 90 per cent of FRV’s annual funding will come from the levy.
Fiskville farmer and Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) livestock council president Scott Young said the organisation “does not agree with the decision that’s been made” around the ESVF.
“It’s a huge increase and that’s why farmers are so concerned,” he said.
“Farmers are not in a position … to afford increases like this in our business.”
Mr Young said farmers were already struggling with the drought.
He said that with no rain on the horizon, he was deciding whether to de-stock livestock out of his farming operation.
“Because I’m going to run low on water and feed that’s very hard to purchase at the moment,” he said.
“Farmers are really struggling to source hay andgraintofeedtheirlivestock,andwhenthey can source it, it’s up to six times dearer than what it normally would be.”
Moorabool mayor Paul Tatchell condemned the passing of the ESVF.
“This change will impact rural communities far more than urban ratepayers, which is
A Bacchus Marsh resident is walking 7000 steps every day this month to raise awareness and understanding of autism.
Taking part in autism-specific service provider Aspect’s annual fundraiser campaign Walk for Autism, Jennifer McLean is hoping to raise awareness and funds for Aspect and autism research.
Ms McLean said she knew nothing about autism until last year, and the more that she learnt about it, the more she relate to what she was learning.
“I went through the diagnosis process and received my official diagnosis … in looking for support I came across the charity and the fundraising that they were doing, so I just wanted to get involved and really do my part to give back to the community,” Ms McLean said. “There’s still a lot of misconceptions about autism, and the variety of ways that it shows up for people. So, I really hope that we can allow people to be understood and accepted … one of the shocking things that I learned was that autistic people are six times more likely to be unemployed and we also have higher rates of homelessness, violence, social exclusion and depression.”
She said donations can be made on her fundraising web page walkforautism. org.au/fundraisers/jennifermclean63558
incredibly unfair and cruel to farmers in particular, who are already facing many hardships,” Cr Tatchell said.
“There are fairer ways to do this and it’s a shame the Victorian Government is using our rural property owners to claw back some of their huge debt.
“It needs to be urgently reconsidered or the consequences could be severe for our primary producers, which in turn means severe for all Victorians who rely on food production.”
On Thursday, the government also announced$15.9milliontowardsexpandingits on-farm drought infrastructure program and budget funding for an extended partnership with the National Centre for Farmer Health.
Jennifer McLean is walking 7000 steps a day each day in May to help raise awareness and understanding of autism. (Damjan Janevski) 477527_01
Hospital groundworks complete
The new Melton Hospital is one step closer to completion, with site preparation works now complete and major construction works to begin shortly.
A hands-on design process of the new hospital involved hundreds of Western Health staff, with more 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’s booming outer west.
By experiencing the hospital layout at a 1:1 scale, they were able to assess how teams will
move, how patients will be treated and how services will connect.
Their real-time feedback to project managers and architects led to design refinements, such as relocating doors, resizing rooms, and adjusting layouts to improve workflow, safety and patient care.
Melton MP Steve McGhie said that moving on to the next stage of the project is “one step closer to delivering this much-needed, landmark hospital for the Melton community.”
“With ground works coming to completion and designs refined through this hands-on collaboration, major construction is set to begin shortly,” Mr McGhie said.
He said the hospital is on track for completion in 2029 to deliver “much needed health infrastructure for not only the Melton
community but the entire western suburbs.”
The New Melton Hospital will be Victoria’s first fully electric hospital and aims to meet growing healthcare demand in the west and support the communities of Melton, Caroline Springs, Rockbank, Bacchus Marsh and Gisborne.
Located on Ferris Road, major construction will begin soon following the completion of initial works.
According to the government, the hospital willhavecapacitytotreat130,000patientseach yearandabout60,000patientsinitsemergency department. According to the state, it will also reduce waiting times at other busy Melbourne hospitals and provide an essential link with services at Sunshine Hospital and the new $1.5 billion Footscray Hospital.
Sew much fun at community centre
Sewing enthusiasts of all abilities are invited to attend a new Melton sewing group, providing the opportunity to share skills and sew in a social environment.
Running each Tuesday from 9.30am–3pm, the Sewing Club at Melton South Community Centre started early this year and has attracted a group of regular attendees who gather to share their sewing skills and socialise with others.
Attendees bring along their own machine and materials, and all abilities are invited to join in.
Melton South Community Centre program co-ordinator Danielle Clarke said that socialisationisanimportantaspectoftheclub.
“It gets them out of the house, meeting new people, new ideas … being connected to the community,” Ms Clarke said.
“It’s open to all abilities, and the ladies are willing to help each other as well, which is great. They all have different skills and different levels,” she said.
Ms Clarke said that she has seen new friendships form through the club, with members catching up outside of the Tuesday
sessions.
She said that attendance hours are flexible, with some members choosing to stay from open to close.
The club runs every Tuesday of the year – apart from public holidays – and those interested in joining are encouraged to call the community house for details or drop in during the club’s opening hours at 41 Exford Road, Melton South.
The club also continues throughout the school holidays.
Contact: 9747 8576
Council wants plan feedback
Moorabool council has released its next draft council plan for community feedback, with the plan guiding council’s service delivery, activities and decision making over the next four years.
After initial consultation through surveys, community and pop-up information sessions across the shire, the council is now seeking feedback on the prepared draft council plan for 2025–29.
According to the plan, the three strategic objectives for the council are healthy, inclusive, and safe communities, a dynamic and resilient local economy, investing in spaces that meet the needs of various communities, and an adaptive council.
Some of the priorities under these objectives include improving access to services for all communities, improving transport, growing local industry and attracting investment in Moorabool, enhancing the natural and built environment, and understanding and advocating for community needs
According to the plan, Moorabool’s current population of 40,339 is forecast to double in the next 20 years.
Feedback can be submitted until Wednesday, June 4, with the final plan to be adopted by the council in June.
Details: haveyoursay.moorabool. vic.gov.au/lovemoorabool
Melton line electrification closer with $4b budget promise
An announcement for fast-tracked redevelopment of Sunshine station, which will “pave the way” for electrification of the Meltonrailline,hasbeenwelcomedbyMelton council and LeadWest.
Announced by Premier Jacinta Allan as part of a public transport blitz, the state government will include almost $5 billion in funding in this year’s budget towards public transport, with $4 billion of that going towards the Sunshine station redevelopment. Working with the federal government, the government is building a new transport superhub in Sunshine, which will enable an airport rail and is the first step for
electrification to Melton.
The redeveloped Sunshine station will be able to support more than 40 metropolitan and regional trains per hour, as well as trains from the Melton and Melbourne Airport lines in future travelling into the Metro Tunnel.
The announced $4 billion to fast-track the station redevelopment brings forward $2 billion of the government’s investment in the airport rail to start the works as soon as possible.
Melton mayor Steve Abboushi said council welcomes “any investment in public transport that will help get our residents moving“.
“With funding confirmed, we look forward
to further details on these projects including delivery timeframes,” Cr Abboushi said.
“Our growing community needs efficient, frequent public transport to get them where they need to be sooner.
“With an additional 45,000 commuters projectedoverthenext30years,electrification of the Melton rail line remains a priority.”
Advocacy alliance LeadWest also welcomed the investment in transforming the rail network, and LeadWest chair and Melton councillor Phillip Zada said the organisation has been calling for such an investment.
“With Melbourne’s western suburbs on track to match Adelaide’s population, these
infrastructure investments are not just welcome – they are essential. This level of commitment helps our transport network to keep pace with our booming communities,” Cr Zada said.
He said two additional trains per hour in the mornings and afternoons will increase the number of trains on the Werribee line in peak periods from six to eight trains per hour, cutting congestion and saving time. The remainder of the budget funding will help with switching on the Metro Tunnel and delivering turn-up-and-go services.
Oscar Parry
Melton South Community Centre’s Sewing Club attendees Margaret McCallum, Rebecca Ulusoylu, and Doris Vella. (Ljubica Vrankovic). 472916_05
An artist’s impression of the Melton Hospital after completion. (VHBA)
Moorabool draft budget stalled
By Oscar Parry
Mooraboolratepayerswillneedtowaittohave their say on council’s draft 2025-26 budget, with councillors voting down a proposal to release it for community feedback.
At a special council meeting on Wednesday, May 14, a motion was raised calling for the council to put the draft budget on public display, inviting community input and feedback until 5pm on Thursday, June 5.
Five councillors, including mayor Paul Tatchell, voted against beginning the process of adopting the budget.
The draft budget included a proposed
average rate rise of 3 per cent in line with the state government’s rates cap, however some councillors called for council to consider not increasing rates.
Councillors also raised concerns about the delay in the State Revenue Office providing council with property valuations which are used to calculate property rates, with chief executive Derek Madden confirming they had only been received at the beginning of the week.
Cr Tom Sullivan said this year’s budget process “is the poorest I’ve experienced in all the years I’ve been on council“.
“To me, [it] has been very disappointing
with little substance for councillors to obtain a good understanding of the impact on their communities,” Cr Sullivan said.
“A zero rate increase at this time would be the appropriate response. I believe we would just have to pause … just for the time being.“
Cr Ally Munari raised concern about a rate rise when also considering the cost-of-living crisis and the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF).
“It’s been a huge week for our residents, and I would say that there’s a large population of our residents who haven’t cottoned on yet about this [ESVF],” Cr Munari said.
Cr Rod Ward voted in favour of releasing
Andrew Nielsen was selected for the WDF Australian Darts World Cup youth team.
(Ljubica Vrankovic) 477382_01
Melton South teenager hits bullseye
A Melton South teen was “overcome with emotion” when he was named as a member of the national darts youth team, set to compete in the darts world cup in September.
Announced during a competition in Murray Bridge late last month, 17-year-old Andrew Nielsen was named as one of four players in the World Darts Federation (WDF) Australian Darts World Cup youth team, set to compete in Seoul during the WDF World Cup in late September.
Themixedteamconsistsoftwoboysandtwo girls, aged 16–17, selected from a squad of six boys and six girls after a state competition in
January.
Andrew, who is currently the number one ranking WDF youth player in Australia and 15th in the world, said he was ecstatic when he was selected.
“I’m not going to lie, I was overcome with emotion … I was so thankful and relieved that Darts Australia selectors chose me for the team,” Andrew said. “Like everyone else in the squad, we had all been working hard to be picked for those [coveted] two youth spots –and the other five youth boys are great kids and incredible players.”
Starting darts at age 12, Andrew plays three
Sam Rae appointed minister
Hawke MP Sam Rae was sworn in with a new title last week, named as aged care and seniors minister.
Mr Rae in a Facebook post said that he was “deeply honoured to be sworn in.”
“It’s a challenging portfolio … there’s a lot of work to do … I’ll bring my full focus and energy to this role - working hard every day to deliver better outcomes for older Australians,” Mr Rae said.
In another post, Mr Rae said he is “getting straight to work to support aged care residents, back in the workforce, and make sure older Australians are treated with the dignity they deserve”.
“Caring for the generations before us is one of the most important responsibilities we share – and it’s a duty I take seriously,” he said.
Anglicare Australia executive director Kasy Chambers said the organisation welcomes “the
focus on seniors alongside aged care”.
“This is a crucial time for the aged care system, with major reforms underway and a new rights-based Aged Care Act being rolled out. We look forward to working with Minister Rae to support the transition to a new Act and make sure these changes deliver the quality care that older Australians deserve,” Ms Chambers said.
the budget for consultation and said he was “dismayed” that the discussion was around rates.
“We’redebatingwhetherwesendthebudget out for comment or not. We have had ample opportunity to ask the CEO or … officers to prepare an alternate budget to go out for comment. But, we haven’t done it,” Cr Ward said.
“We will come back in six weeks and we will debate the rates then – after the we get the community’s feedback.”
Councillors will return to the chamber to discuss the draft budget before it is released for public consultation.
nights a week and over weekends when there are tournaments.
“I travel all over Australia playing in tournaments, having recently … travelled to Murray Bridge where the team was announced,” he said.
“I have some great people around me who help me and give me tips and advice on how to improve my game and I wouldn’t have come this far without their guidance.”
Andrew said in the darts community, “everyone treats you like family,” with players travelling together and staying at each others’ houses for competitions.
Updates on the development of Melton Botanic Garden’s Californian, Central and South American garden were shared at the Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden’s meeting this month.
With Texas Madrone, Blueberry Ash, Valley Oak, and Mexican Weeping Bamboo some of those currently growing in the Melton Botanic Garden, the first plantings in this section began in July 2023 and will be completed over a five-year planting period from then.
Friends of the Melton Botanic Garden committee member and coordinator of the project’s planting team Max Thompson presented at the meeting, hosted on May 14, about how the plants will look in the garden in the future.
President John Bentley said the group has “got some really significant trees that we’ve planted that are going to be spectacular in a few years”.
“Max joined the group about two years agoandhadaninterestintheCalifornian, Central and South American garden, so he’s been helping plant and manage that garden since we first started planting,” Mr Bentley said. “He took us on a time travellers journey and he looked at the plants as they are now and how they may be in 20-50 years time.
“I covered the design and the constructionofthegarden,sothatcovers getting all the soil there, the shaping of the garden, the creation of the paths and the beds.”
Mr Bentley said that if anyone would “like to join the Friends in managing this garden, then they would be most welcome.”
Details: fmbg.org.au
Hawke MP Sam Rae. (Supplied)
$2.3m legal bill for John Pesutto
By Callum Goode, AAP
Ousted state Liberal leader John Pesutto has been ordered to pay $2.3 million in costs after he was found to have defamed first-term MP Moira Deeming.
Federal Court registrar Alison Legge made the cost ruling on Friday after Mr Pesutto’s lawyers sought details on Mrs Deeming’s crowdfunding efforts and a loan from a property developer.
“It is uncontroversial that the purpose of a cost order is not to punish the unsuccessful party,“ Ms Legge said.
“The purpose, no more and no less, is to compensate the successful party for the cost she has reasonably or not unreasonably incurred in the proceeding.
“I have determined that monies gifted or lent to Ms Deeming to assist her to meet her legal costs of the proceeding are not relevant to my determination and neither displace nor offset the quantum of her entitlement to costs.“
In December, Federal Court Justice David O’Callaghan found Mr Pesutto had defamed Mrs Deeming by implying she was associated with neo-Nazis who gatecrashed a
Art connects students
Students from Melton Specialist School explored identity, belonging, and selfexpression through a week-long art program this month.
Running from Monday, May 5 to Thursday, May 8, the initiative titled A Window into My World united middle and senior school students with a team of multidisciplinary artists to create visual art that reflected students’ lives, communities, and personal perspectives.
A partnership with creative organisation Grand Trine Creative, the artists included musicians and storytellers Becca Hatch, Kian, and Dallas Woods; videographer and photographer Eellie Harris; creative director Dion Brownfield; and visual artist Wah Wah. Each student designed their own ‘window’ artwork – a framed piece representing their world, interests, family, and hopes – in daily workshops that aimed to increase technical skills and confidence.
Melton Specialist School lead teacher Olivia
Dumping ‘despair’
A Maddingley resident said he feels “despair” about the volume of illegally dumped rubbish that has accumulated at a heritage site in Moorabool.
Resident Bernard Katthagen said he enjoys visiting the Ingliston Bank railway cutting site – which is included in the council’s heritage overlay and contains remnant railway cutting construction basalt. “There’s a nice view if you climb up to the trig point,” Mr Katthagen said. “It was a beautiful spot before it got spoilt.” Concerned about the environmental effects of illegally dumped rubbish, including the release of microplastics, Mr Katthagen said the rubbish he picks up “often breaks down into microplastics”.
“I find that time and time again when I pick up litter, it disintegrates in my hands,” he said. “We need a national approach to waste endingupintheenvironmentandjustbeingleft there ... our politicians are kidding themselves if they think enough is being removed.”
He said other approaches to the issue of dumping could include reducing the amount of plastic produced and sold and charging for tyre disposal when you buy a car or have replacement tyres fitted.
“That way the cost of disposing of tyres is already included and there is no incentive to dump. I know this won’t be popular, but again, you can’t expect people to do the right thing,” he said. “Above all, all levels of government –local, state and federal – must get together and work out ways to tackle waste and its handling and disposal.”
AV/Linespokespersonsaidtheorganisationt has been made aware of rubbish dumped along the rail reserve at Rowsley and it is “now planning for its removal”.
Desormeaux said that the project “promotes student voice.”
“It’saboutconnectingouryoungpeoplewith real-world artists who can mentor and support them as they share their stories in creative and expressive ways,” Ms Desormeaux said.
GrandTrineCreative’screativedirectorDion Brownfield said the purpose of the program is to “give students the freedom, confidence, and tools to enter a state of creative flow.”
“When young people are in that flow zone, they’re not just creating – they’re expressing who they are, exploring ideas deeply, and discovering their voice,” Mr Brownfield said.
“The exhibition theme, ‘Window into Your World’, creates space for fantasy and play, whilealsoinvitingstudentstosharetheirtruth and showcase their identity,” he said.
The student works created in the initiative were displayed at a school exhibition on Friday, May 9, where families and community members were invited to experience and hear about the final pieces.
controversial Melbourne rally she attended.
He ordered Mr Pesutto pay her $315,000 on top of her legal costs for the case, which Ms Legge calculated to be $2,308,873,11.
Thescaleofthecostsrulingraisesquestions about the Hawthorn MP’s ability to fulfil the order and MPs’ eligibility to sit in Victorian parliament if they declare bankruptcy.
Mr Pesutto’s barrister Daryl Williams KC sought a stay of 21 or 28 days on his client paying the lump sum to allow him to consider a review of the registrar’s decision.
Mrs Deeming’s barrister Sue Chrysanthou SCopposedthemove,withthecourtexpected
to return on Friday afternoon to deal with the issue.
TheHeraldSunreportsMrPesuttohasbeen in discussions with the Cormack Foundation, a multimillion-dollar investment group for the Liberal Party, to cover his legal costs.
After losing the defamation trial, Mr Pesutto lost the leadership in a spill and Mrs Deeming was welcomed back to the party room.
His replacement Brad Battin indicated the party wasn’t preparing for a by-election in Hawthorn and said it was up to the secretariat to decide whether to bail out Mr Pesutto.
Dumped rubbish scattered at the Ingliston Bank railway cutting site. (Pictures: Supplied)
Melton Specialist School student Bea with her artwork. (Damjan Janevski) 476494_03
Tenth anniversary lift
The Western Emergency Relief Network (WERN) cut the ribbon on a new elevator last week at an event also celebrating the organisation’s 10th anniversary.
Established on May 8, 2015, and originally operating in Footscray, WERN combines the efforts of Rotary Clubs in the local district in a non-profit organisation that provides second-hand furniture, electronic products, and whitegoods to people in need.
The organisation is supported by 14 Rotary clubs across the district along with plenty of volunteers outside of Rotary.
NowoperatinginRavenhall,WERNfounder and administration manager Ross Butterworth said the new lift unveiled on the organisation’s 10th anniversary on Thursday, May 8, will provide several benefits.
He said one of these is increased accessibility to the facility’s mezzanine level.
“Often the clients we work with have
disabilities … and they now have the access to get up there,” Mr Butterworth said.
“The mezzanine also accommodates the training room ... the office space and amenities, [and] the lunchroom … now it gives us the ability to train the volunteers and to accept volunteers of all abilities, and to give them trainingforthepotentialof[returning]towork – which is the exciting part of it.”
Mr Butterworth said the organisation has seen a “tremendous increase in demand for client support”, meaning that it has needed to expand its services and attract more donations.
“To date, we’ve contributed around 40,000 volunteer hours, we’ve completed over 4000 collections and donations, and we’ve given out to our families over 110,000 items of furniture and other goods,” he said.
“Those goods can turn a house into a home.”
WERN is always looking for donations and volunteers, with details available on its website.
Briefs
Cobblebank collision turns fatal
A 34-year-old man located with serious injures on the side of the road in Cobblebank last week has died in hospital. Victoria Police was called to Western Freeway, west of Mount Cottrell Road, following a report of an injured man found on the side of the road about 7am on Thursday, May 8. The 34-year-old man, of no fixed address, was taken to hospital with life-threatening-injuries and died in hospital on Monday, May 12. The circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated but it is believed he may have been hit by a vehicle, which did not remain at the scene. Anyone with any information, CCTV or dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Scam information session
Moorabool Libraries is hosting a free one-hour scam presentation at Lerderderg Library this Thursday, May 22. The session will cover common scams including the latest Tax and Medicare scams, tips on how to spot scams, what to do and what not to do. and where to go for help. To reserve your place in the session, contact Moorabool Libraries on 5366 7100 (select option five for the library), or visit the council website to find the link to the booking page.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au
Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly
Western Emergency Relief Network chair Tony Ebejer, founder and administration manager Ross Butterworth, and Kororoit MP Luba Grigorovitch. (Supplied)
A boxer’s story, blow by blow
From the Williamstown commission flats to world title fights, boxing great Barry Michael’s first autobiography gives a blow by blow account of his life in and out of the ring, as Cade Lucas discovers.
“Cade, Williamstown back then, prior to the West Gate Bridge, was rough.”
I’d asked former world champion boxer Barry Michael what it was like growing up in Williamstown in the late 1960’s.
Many great fighters have used the ring as an escape route from poverty and hardship and by the sounds of things, it was no different for themanbornBarrySwettenhaminEnglandin 1955, whose family arrived in Australia as ten pound poms two years later and then moved into the Williamstown commission flats by the time he turned eight.
“There were junkies and drugs you know and my brother became a heroin addict. I lost about five mates over a period of 10 years from heroin overdoses,” he recalled.
“After the West Gate Bridge was built (in the 1970’s), things started to change. And now look at it, it’s about $1.6 million median house price.”
Now 69, Michael still lives in Williamstown, but like the suburb itself, his life bears little resemblance to the one he enjoyed in the days before the West Gate connected the inner west to the rest of Melbourne.
However, it’s not the bridge across the Yarra that’s responsible for Michael’s change in fortunes, but his long and storied career as one of one of Australia’s greatest boxers.
‘‘ It was very difficult to get fights for years. So I’d get on a plane and go anywhere for $1000 bucks to fight 10 rounds ’’ - Barry Michael
It’s a career that took Michael from sparring sessions in an old church hall on Melbourne Road to rings across Asia, the United States and United Kingdom, and most famously, to Festival Hall in 1985 where he finally won a world title, resting the super featherweight belt off for former friend, but then bitter foe, Lester Ellis, in one of the biggest domestic bouts in Australian fight history.
That and many other fights, both inside and outside the ring, plus his post-retirement career as a fight promoter and commentator are detailed in his first autobiography, Last Man Standing, which will be released in July.
ThetitleisareferencetoMichael’sendurance in the ring, where he was never knocked out and regularly took opponents the distance.
It could equally apply to his life post-retirement, which has been longer and more successful than many of his pugilist contemporaries, particularly others from disadvantaged backgrounds who often find the fame and fortune won inside the ring evaporates once they hang up the gloves.
For Michael, while his upbringing in the Williamstown commission flats in the 1960’s might’ve been rough, boxing wasn’t his only route out of it.
“I was always good at school. I did my matriculation and I wanted to do economics would you believe,” he recalled incredulously. Michael was ultimately offered the chance to study psychology, but by this stage, the 16-year-old was already a keen student of the sweet science thanks to the exploits of the legendary Lionel Rose.
“I was in love with Lionel Rose and Johnny Famechon, they were my idols, especially Lionel.”
He was far from alone.
Rose winning the world bantamweight title over Japan’s Fighting Harada in Tokyo in 1968 made him an instant national hero.
More 100, 000 people lined the streets of Melbourne when the first Indigenous man to win a world boxing title returned home.
The late 1960’s were the halcyon days for Australian boxing, with Rose and world
featherweight champion Famechon household names and TV Ringside beaming fights into living rooms every week.
Having deferred his studies and turned professional, Michael soon became Rose’s sparring partner and friend and dreamt of emulating his idol’s world title success.
But as the 60’s became the 70’s and Rose and Famechon retired, the Australian public’s interest in the fight game went with them.
Minus the public adulation of his predecessors or the pay-per-view millions earned by those who followed, Michael spent his peak years fighting overseas, largely in anonymity.
“It was very difficult to get fights for years,” he said. “So I’d get on a plane and go anywhere for $1000 bucks to fight 10 rounds. Thus I fought in Indonesia five times, the Philippines, South America, Wales, England, the United States, all over the world.”
All over the world, but no world title.
As ever with boxing, politics and promoters gotinthewayandbytheearly1980’s,Michael’s chances of reaching the pinnacle were rapidly passing him by.
Fortunately, the Australian fight game was finally showing signs of life, driven by Jeff ‘the Marrickville Mauler’ Fenech and a young fighter from Melbourne who Michael knew well: Lester Ellis.
Like Michael, Ellis was born in England, but grew up in Melbourne’s western suburbs in West Sunshine.
Like Michael, Ellis began boxing in his early teens and showed serious promise in similar weight divisions..
Their similarities brought them together as training partners and friends, but by the mid-80’s their differences had pushed them apart.
Elliswasalmostadecadeyoungerandunlike Michael, had a distinguished amateur career, a springboard from which he quickly rose through the ranks upon turning professional in 1983.
Just two years later, Ellis defeated South Korean Hwan-Kil Yuh to do what the older man had spent more then a decade trying and failing to do: win a world title.
NotonlydidEllishavewhatMichaelwanted, he also had Michael’s former trainer, Dana Goodson.
American had walked out on Michael after he suffered a serious foot injury during a training camp in Miami.
Upon returning to Melbourne, Michael was shocked to learn Goodson was now in Ellis’ corner.
Relations hit rock bottom, yet after winning his world title, the Ellis camp unwisely booked Michael for his second and last title defence.
In a match up as bitter as it was anticipated, Ellis and Michael met for the IBF Super Featherweight world title at Festival Hall on July 12 1985.
In the same venue that once hosted his favourite program, TV Ringside, Michael produced the fight of his life to win by unanimous decision over 15 rounds.
He was a world champion at 30.
Michael made three successful defences before losing the title to American Rocky Lockridge in 1987, the final fight of his career.
But was another fight outside the ring that brought about the end.
Four months before the Lockridge fight, Michael was severely bashed in a Melbourne nightclub by notorious organised crime figure Alphonse Gangitano and his associates.
“HejustjumpedmeGangitano,Inevergot a single punch or anything,” said Michael who speculates bad blood from a nightclub fight a decade earlier and the lack of a re-match with Ellis something the gangster was rumoured to have interests in, as reasons for the ambush.
Chopper Read said I’d never be able to walk and talk again, they smashed me so bad.”
Michael not only walked and talked, but fought again.
However the injuries to his nose from the bashing meant he was never the same.
“My nose was under my left eye (after the bashing) and I had to have it re broken and reconstructed, and it wasn’t the same in the gym,” he said.
“It broke in the first minute against Lockridge in my last fight.”
Gangitano was murdered in 1998 as part of Melbourne’s underworld war, while Michael enteredintoalongcareerasaboxingpromoter and commentator, while also pursuing interests in real estate.
After long-wanting to write a book, Michael was five chapters in when his third wife Sue, died suddenly in 2023.
With help from his publisher and using someofthedeterminationthatsawhimwin48 times from 60 fights, Michael pushed through and will launch the book on
“They just pinned me on this couch and smashed the shit out of me. My nose was smashed with a glass ashtray they reckon.
The date marks the 40-year anniversary of his fight with Ellis, his former foe and now friend who has written
The
Michael poses with the IBF Super Featherweight world title he won from Ellis at age 30. (Supplied)
Former world champion boxer Barry Michael in front of the Williamstown housing commission towers where he grew up. (Damjan Janevski) 475603_01
Barry Michael (left) lands a punch on Lester Ellis at Festival Hall in 1985. (Supplied)
‘Tech neck’ is a growing concern
With over 5.3 million Australians suffering from neck pain, including tension neck syndrome a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) commonly known as ‘tech neck’ or ‘text neck’, national Spinal Health Week (26 May to 1 June) is dedicated to promoting spinal health and preventing the incidences of tech neck in Australians of all ages.
MSDs affect the joints, bones, muscles and multiple body areas (including the neck) and cost the Australian economy over $55 billion annually through direct health costs, lost productivity and reduced quality of life.
President of the Australian Chiropractors Association (ACA) Dr Billy Chow said “With tech neck emerging as a growing global public health concern, together with the projected increase in MSDs over the next two decades, the health burden on Australians and our economyisandwillcontinuetobesignificant.”
“With over 34 million mobile phone connections and 95 per cent of Australians accessing the internet via a smartphone, the focus of ACA’s annual national Spinal Health Week is on encouraging Australians to adjust their thinking and take proactive steps to improve their spinal health and avoid debilitating tech neck,” said Dr Chow.
“Onceprimarilyexperiencedbyseniors,with the advent of smart devices and wide-spread use of tablets and computers by people of all ages including children; we’re seeing a growing number of younger patients in their 30s and 40s suffering from cervical spine disorders due
to incorrect use of technology devices.“
Studies have shown smartphone and computer use can have a significant impact on pain severity among tech neck sufferers with the most prevalent symptoms of neck and back pain linked to the length of time spent using a device and the degree of discomfort experienced.
Causedbypoorpostureandtheprolongedor incorrect use of digital devices, tech neck can lead to headaches, neck, shoulder and upper back pain that over time, can lead to changes to the natural curve of the cervical spine.
A recent study ‘The Association Between Mobile Phone Usage Duration, Neck Muscle Endurance, and Neck Pain Among University Students’ published in Nature (29.8.2024), examined the correlation between phone use, duration, addiction, neck muscle endurance, and neck pain in university students.
“Althoughthestudyfocusedonmobilephone use by university students, with almost 87 per cent of Australians now regular smartphone users and 75.5 per cent being daily computer users, it’s fair to consider the findings may be broadly applied to the population generally,
particularly young people who’ve grown up using smartphones and tablets,” said Dr Chow.
“While more studies are needed to better understand the implications of incorrect and overuse of technology on spinal health; to help prevent tech neck, we need to re-think how we use devices particularly young people who spend prolonged periods with their head bent forward viewing a smartphone,” he said.
“When it comes to smartphones, not only must we monitor the length of time we use our devices, but we must be cognisant that overuse and the way we use them can negatively impact our spinal health as well as our mental health,” Dr Chow said.
“TheACArecommendslimitingrecreational screentime to two hours per day, holding devices at eye level to prevent bending the neck forward, changing posture and taking regular breaks every ten minutes to look away from the device and move the neck from side-to-side.”
“Computer use is also a primary cause of tech neck. Although most common among officeworkers,with75.5percentofAustralians aged 16 to 64 using computers daily, incorrect use and computer set up can lead to a range of MSDs.
“Whether using a laptop or a desktop at home, school, university or at work; it’s essential to take regular postural breaks every 30 minutes for movement and stretching and ensure workstations are set up ergonomically correct to help prevent tech neck, increase productivityandmaintainoverallspinalhealth and wellbeing.
“During Spinal Health Week, we’re encouraging all Australians to adjust their thinking on how they use smartphones, tablets and computers to help prevent persistent, aggravated head, neck and upper back injuries which impact productivity at home, school and at work,” he said.
Bus driver gives crash account
By Tara Cosoleto, AAP
A school bus driver says he accurately remembers a crash where seven children were seriously injured, despite revealing new details of the incident for the first time.
Graham Stanley gave the assertions in evidence on Thursday as truck driver Jamie Gleeson stands trial in the Victorian County Court on seven counts of dangerous driving. It’s alleged Gleeson, 51, failed to maintain a proper distance from the bus or pay sufficient attention before he crashed into the back of the vehicle on May 16, 2023.
He denies the allegations, maintaining he was not driving dangerously.
Seven students were seriously injured in the crash 900m from Exford Primary School.
MrStanleygaveevidenceonWednesdaythat hebegantappingonthebrakepedal,activating the retarder system, about 100m before the crash.
When questioned on Thursday by Gleeson’s barrister James Anderson, Mr Stanley accepted he could not be exactly sure when he started to decelerate.
“I have an actual memory of putting my foot on the brake to activate the retarder,” he told the jury. “The exact location, it’s hard ... I couldn’t pin it.”
He reiterated it was along the section of Exford Road where there was a right-hand turn lane, about 200m from the collision site.
MrStanleyacceptedWednesdaywasthefirst time he had told police, prosecutors or a court that he used the retarder system in the lead-up
to the crash.
He told the jury the system was turned on through a switch in the bus dashboard and it was activated once the brake pedal was pressed down. It would turn off again once the driver’s foot was on the accelerator, he said.
Mr Stanley said he usually drove with the retardersystemonanditwouldhelpthevehicle slow down more smoothly.
He told the jury he had not mentioned the retarder system prior to the trial because he had not been directly asked about it.
“I’veonlyeverbeenaskedwhenIputthefoot on the brake,“ he said in evidence.
“This time I thought I have to elaborate because it wasn’t one solid brake application.“
MrStanleydeniedMrAnderson’ssuggestion he did not apply the retarder system before the
New park and playground for Aintree
A new accessible park and playground is set to open in Aintree late this month, with features aimedatappealingtochildrenandadultsalike.
Set in the Woodlands Precinct of Woodlea estate, Aintree, Hazelwood Park is a recreational space and playground featuring nature-inspired play equipment and installations.
The park includes seven-metre-high playground pods inspired by Reed Warbler nests, Billy Button and dragonfly sculptures, climbing nets, seesaws, hidden fairy doors, swings, a slide, a shaded billabong, waterplay zones, and quiet areas.
This includes textured equipment and
calming sensory zones.
Along with the nature-focused equipment, it is also wedged between about 30 acres of River Red Gum trees and 15 acres of wetlands.
Project director Matthew Dean said the park is designed to be inclusive and accessible.
“Hazelwood Park has been designed with wide, accessible entry points for prams and wheelchairs, and features a mix of elevated structures, sensory textures, and quieter corners that support a variety of needs,” Mr Dean said. “For example, the architectural playground pods can be accessed by children through to grandparents, allowing for multigenerational play.
“The play elements are really unique … it’s designed to cater to a wide range of ages and play styles.”
Mr Dean said the setting of the park is one of its key attractions.
“It’s nestled between a beautifully restored wetland and a grove of ancient River Red Gums - trees that have stood for hundreds of years.Thisnaturalamphitheatresupportslocal wildlifelikesugargliders,resinbees,andnative birds, giving families the chance to experience nature up close,” he said.
Hazelwood Park is located at Hazelwood Drive, Aintree, and the park will be open to the public on Monday, May 26.
crash and instead he was misremembering the incident.
Gleeson told police he did not see the brake lights or indicator of the bus until the last second and it appeared as if the bus had forgotten to turn.
The jury was told the truck skidded for about 25mbeforethecollisionandwasgoing67km/h at the point of impact.
A later assessment of the truck found its brakes were faulty although Gleeson was unaware of the issues and the truck had been regularly serviced.
Gleeson did not have any drugs or alcohol in his system at the time of the crash and there was no evidence of speeding or that he used his phone before the collision.
The trial continues.
Funding call for suburbs
Outer Melbourne Councils (OMC), a coalition of 10 councils that includes Hume, Melton, Whittlesea and Wyndham, is calling on the state government to include funding for the growing suburbs fund in the budget.
Since its inception in 2015, the fund has contributed about $440 million to help councils on Melbourne’s outer ring to develop and improve local infrastructure such as parks, playgrounds, community centres and public toilets.
The fund was topped up by $5 million dollars last year, but has no funding has been allocated for future years.
The group wants the fund retained, guaranteed in budgets to come and greatly expanded.
OMC spokesperson and Cardinia mayor Jack Kowarzick said meeting the needs of Melbourne’s growing outer suburbs is not a year-to-year proposition.
“Five million dollars, even leveraged with co-investment from councils, doesn’t go far across the great swathe of Melbourne’s outer suburbs,” he said.
“The ‘big build’ might steal the spotlight, but building better neighbourhoodshelpsuswherewelive.”
“Single year extensions and small ’drip funding’ top-ups don’t provide the certainty our suburbs need,” he said.
“Weneedtoseethisprogramretained and extended over the long term.”
The Department of Transport and Planning was contacted.
Hazelwood Park project director Matthew Dean at the park, which is set to open later this month. (Damjan Janevski) 476142_01
Beyond the battlefield: what a Nerf war teaches learners
At Global Village Learning (GVL), teachers know that powerful learning doesn’t just happen at a desk. Sometimes, it looks like laughter, movement—and many foam darts flying through the air. It might seem like just a game, but at GVL it’s a celebration of who we are and what we value.
During our Nerf war, learners of all ages teamed up, planned strategies, and navigated fast-paced challenges. They weren’t just having fun, they were building communication skills, learning to collaborate, and developing leadership skills in real time. In a safe and playful environment, learners explored what it meant to take risks, make decisions, and manage group dynamics.
The Nerf war was part of a larger, end-of-season (term) celebration - GVL’s Medieval Mayhem. From apple bobbing and hobby horse jousting to the Inaugural GVL Raft Competition, it was a full-costume, all-ages celebration. What made it truly special was the whole-of-community atmosphere: families, guides, grandparents, volunteers, and learners of all ages came together for spirited, well-natured games, music, and shared laughter.
Peter Hutton, executive director at GVL, summed up the energy and meaning of the day saying“It’smomentslikethiswherethelearning is loud and very real - even if it looks messy, chaotic, or unconventional. These events show what happens when you trust young people to exerciseresponsibilityforthemselvesandothers within a high-action low-stakes setting.”
reflected on the value of these moments.
learner-led, guide-supported experiences. Whether they’re negotiating battle strategy or constructing a raft, learners are navigating complexity, embracing failure, and exercising
As our new season (school term) begins, we look back fondly on the shared memories — even if it meant picking up thousands of foam
Budget help for families to pay for camps and sport
Tuesday’s state budget will include $152.3 million to increase the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund and $15 million to deliver the popular Get Active Kids Vouchers for another two years.
Currently, eligible primary school students receive $154 per year, while eligible secondary students receive $256 under the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund
With an investment of $152.3 million, all paymentswillbeincreasedto$400fromTerm 1, 2026 – making sure every student gets the chance to join camps, attend excursions and play on a team with their mates.
The money is expected to help around 200,000 kids from families with a Health Care or concession card every year.
Families with multiple children at the same school can pool their allocated funding to use on one child or for one specific activity – helping in situations where the costs for activities in a certain year level are higher than others.
More support for sports, activities and equipment
The budget also delivers the popular $200 Get Active Kids vouchers for another two years, helping more than 65,000 kids who need it.
These $200 vouchers cover the cost of memberships, registration fees, equipment and uniforms for sports and popular activities, and are available to families with a Health Care or concession card.
The program covers more than 70 sports and more than 2,100 activity providers across the state – making sure every child across Victoria has the chance to take part.
Since the program launched in 2020, almost 190,000 vouchers have been provided to families. More than half of families who received vouchers reported their kids would not have been able to participate without
them. 22 per cent of recipients joined a local sporting club for the first time thanks to the vouchers.
“For many students, a school camp or an excursion is the highlight of the year,” said
Success is assured for every student at St Anthony’s
St Anthony’s Catholic Primary School is a nurturing and inclusive community where every child is empowered to succeed. Embracing diversity, the school values each student’s unique background, culture, and strengths, creating a rich and welcoming environment where all feel seen, heard, and respected.
Rooted in Gospel values — humility, tolerance, trust, determination, commitment, and respect — St Anthony’s provides a faith-filled foundation that supports students in becoming compassionate, responsible citizens. The school is proud of its inviting Catholic community, where families, staff, and students come together in a spirit of love, service, and unity.
At the heart of the school are its beautiful students and the dedicated, passionate staff who guide them each day. Teachers at St Anthony’s use evidence-based practices aligned with the science of learning, including
explicit instruction, to build deep knowledge and strong foundational skills. These approaches ensure that all learners, regardless of background or ability, are given the support they need to thrive.
St Anthony’s is a family-friendly school where friendly, approachable staff work in partnership with parents to provide a holistic and consistent approach to education. A wide rangeofinitiatives,fromenrichmentprograms to wellbeing support, further enhance the learning experience, fostering curiosity, resilience, and a love of learning.
With a strong commitment to academic excellence and personal growth, St Anthony’s aims for success for every child. It is more than just a school — it is a vibrant, caring community where children are known, valued, and inspired to be their best in faith and learning.
For more information, please call 8099 7800 or scan the QR code for a virtual tour.
2026 ENROLMENTS ARE NOW OPEN
Our enrolment forms for 2026 are to be filled in and submitted online. Please use the QR Code below for instructions and to commence the enrolment process.
Enrolment tours will be held on Thursday 29th May at 9.15am.
Bookings are essential please use the QR code to book.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll
“We’re putting more money back in the pockets of Victorian families and making sure all students have the chance to take part.”
Nurturing minds and shaping futures through tutoring
At Learners Hub Education Centre, staff are committed to delivering a holistic, high-quality educational experience for every child, every day.
As one of the leading tutoring centres in the west, Learners Hub Education Centre caters to students from Pre-Foundation to Year 12 supporting both academic excellence and personaldevelopmentthroughcomprehensive numeracy and literacy programs, in line with Victorian and Australian Curriculum.
We are also more than thankful to the community for supporting us, since we opened our Melton Centre in 2017.
Learners Hub Education Centre specialised offerings include:
• Weekly classes of numeracy and literacy programs
• ICAS,SEALandSelectiveSchoolPreparation programs
• Intensive phonics classes – the science of reading
• School readiness programs
• NDIS supports
• Dynamic school holiday enrichment activities such as STEM classes and Art Workshops—designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
Why choose our tutoring centre?
What sets Learners Hub Education Centre apart is our firm belief that learning should be engaging, purposeful, and enjoyable. Far from the conventional model of repetitive worksheets, our classrooms come alive with interactive strategies, educational games, mindfulnesspractices,andhands-onteaching resources. We create a positive and inclusive learning environment where students feel seen, supported, and motivated. Thus, results are evident, with whatever individual goals our students may have.
As teachers and tutors, we uphold a strong Duty of Care and are fully compliant with the Child Safety Standards. Our team undergoes mandatory training, and rigorous workplace checks to ensure a safe and nurturing space for all learners.
We are a proud member of the Australian Tutoring Association (since 2015) and
Qualified Tutors — both organisations dedicated to upholding excellence and ethical practices within the tutoring industry. Our educators are not only passionate and highly qualified but also committed to continuous improvement through regular professional development and performance monitoring.
Above all, Learners Hub Education Centre is an award-winning education centre—a recognition that reflects our unwavering commitment to high quality, partnership, care, and innovation in learning. When you choose Learners Hub Education Centre, you’re choosing a trusted partner in your child’s educational journey.
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
Propagating workshop
Discover how to grow your own plants from seeds and cuttings in Melton South Community Centre’s upcoming Propagating workshop from 10–11am on Saturday, May 31. Learn how to get the garden you want on a budget and how to get the best results. Tickets will cost $25 or $20 concession. Call the centre for enquiries and bookings.
9747 8576
Soy wax candle workshops
Kids aged 5 years and over can have fun making their own candles in Melton South Community Centre’s next workshop from 10.30-11.30am on Saturday, May 24. With no hot liquids or fragrances, this hands-on workshop is fun for the whole family, with parents invited to stay. Entry costs $17. There will also be a fun one-day workshop. Perfect as gifts or home décor, these customisable glass jar candles are an affordable but stylish way to express yourself that you can also create at home. Entry to this session costs $90 or $85 concession. Call the centre for enquiries and bookings.
9747 8576
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
Bacchus Marsh Rotary Art Show
Bacchus Marsh Rotary is hosting an art show at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall over the King’s Birthday Weekend. There will be a gala opening on Friday, June 6 from 7-10pm, where upper, drinks, and live music from the Baccbeat Jazz Band will be provided. Preview and purchase of artwork will be available at the gala opening, and tickets will be $45 per person. This is an 18 years and over event. Then, the art show will be open from 10am-4pm on The King’s Birthday Weekend – June 7-9pm.
bacchusmarshrotary.org.au/ art-show-2025.html
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
Melton South Community Centre
Sewing lovers are invited to join Melton South Community Centre’s new Sewing Club, running on Tuesdays. Bring your machine and materials and make new friends as you work on your own projects. $5 per week. For information, call 9747 8576. Melton South Community Centre’s term two program of courses and events is now available, with learning activities for all the family. The program can be viewed online.
meltonsouth.org.au.
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
Darley Neighbourhood House
The Darley Neighbourhood House and Learning Centre is at 33-35 Jonathan Drive,
This week’s photographer’s choice picture is of Charlie Woods, who is one half of Indigenous sister duo, Charlie Needs Braces. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 478125
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
National seniors meeting
On the first Wednesday of every month at 1.30pm, the metro west branch of national seniors meets at the 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
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 rose gardens at the park. Volunteers are welcome and no experience is necessary to join .
Elaine, 0400 052 857 or Judy, 0428 463 538
Bacchus Marsh Ladies Probus Club
Meets on the first Thursday of every month from 10am 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
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
Bacchus Marsh Senior Citizens
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
Moonlite Theatre Bacchus Marsh
Bacchus Marsh community theatre group
Moonlite Theatre will hold auditions on Thursday 22 May from 5pm and Saturday 24th May from 12pm for the group’s upcoming performance of Patrick Hamilton’s thrilling play ’Rope’. Auditions are strictly by appointment only and as Moonlite Theatre is a community theatre, no actors are paid. For more information about the auditions or to book an audition please email the director Shannon. Shannon, shannon.moonlitetheatre@ gmail.com
Melton Concert Band
Rehearsals are on Thursdays from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at the Bridge Road Community Centre, Bridge Road, Melton South. Musicians of any age who are able to read music are welcome to come along with their instrument (oboe, bassoon, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, percussion). Please contact the number provided if you are intending to visit. 0401 474 582
Moorabool creativity on display
Watercolour paintings, ceramic works, and sculptures are some of the works that will be displayed and sold at the Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh’s upcoming art show.
The 53rd annual art show will run over the King’s Birthday Weekend at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall, with a gala opening night on Friday, June 6. The gala night will include finger food, beverages, and live music from the local Baccbeat Jazz Band.
Club committee chair Peter Shilton said “We generally have up to a 1000 people come through over the long weekend.”
He said the show caters for all ages and all differentskilllevels,fromprofessionalartiststo
those who are just starting out – and for many artists, the show is the first time they publicly exhibit their art.
Prizes will be offered to artists across a range ofcategories,includingalocalcontentcategory.
ThegalaopeningonFriday,June6runsfrom 7–10pm, where there will be a preview of the works and an opportunity to purchase them early.
The opening night will be open to those aged over 18.
Sales will open at 8pm on Friday and then remain open all weekend, with the show open between 10am–4pm from June 7–9. Works range in price from $250–$5000.
The show is supported by local volunteers from SES, Scouts and Guides, CWA, CPNS, and hospitality students from Bacchus Marsh Grammar.
Artwork submissions to enter in the show will be accepted by the club until Monday, May 26 Details: bacchusmarshrotary.org.au/ art-show-2025.html
Rotary Club of Bacchus Marsh committee chair Peter Shilton and secretary Donna Martin at the Bacchus Marsh Public Hall. (Damjan Janevski)
478007_01
Make a dash to see the rhino crash
The Raising Rhinos Experience is one that you may never forget.
Guests will be taken on a 60-minute adventure across the Werribee Open Range Zoo’s savannah and see the crash in action.
Zookeepers will explain what daily life looks like for a southern white rhino and the extinction plight the species faces in Africa.
One of the highlights of the experience is that it is done on ‘rhino time,’ which basically means the rhinos pick and choose when they appear – just like they would in their native
habitat.
This allows the tour to operate in a way which does not disturb the natural behaviour of the crash.
Some rhinos at the zoo have reputations more like rock stars, none more than Jabuani whose birth in August made headlines.
You will also hear the thrilling stories of how the zoo prepared for his birth and the moment the youngster finally met his family for the first time.
You and your family will be able to start the
week in style or end it with a bang, because the program runs at 1.10pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Wheelchair access can be accommodated so everyone can get out on the savannah and guests are urged to look at the rules about adult to children ratio on the zoo’s website.
As zoo entry is not included in the ticket price, make sure to book your rhino experience and general entry ticket for the same day
Tickets: https://www.zoo.org.au/werribee/ whats-on/animal-experiences/raising-rhinos/
Comedian O’Leary to bring laughs to Altona
KiwicomicRayO’Learywillbringhisdeadpan deliveryandiconicgreysuittoHobsonsBayon Wednesday, May 28 when he headlines a night of comedy at the Altona Sports Club.
A staple of stages and TV screens on both sides of the Tasman, O’Leary has featured on Channel 10’s Ten’s Have You Been Paying Attention?, Thank God You’re Here, Cheap Seats, and SBS’ Patriot Brains.
In New Zealand he regularly appears and writes for 7 Days and Have You Been Paying Attention? and has also been nominated two years running for Best Male Comedian by the New Zealand Comedy Guild.
In 2022 he picked up a win for Best Joke and Best TV Comedy Performance, after being nominated for Best TV Comedy Performance the previous three years. Additionally, he has been twice nominated
Play explores culture behind prison walls
Something powerful is stirring at the Bowery Theatre.
Essence Theatre Productions (ETP) and Nga Matai Purua (NMP) will stage the premiere of The Yellow Line, a bold play inspired by real events inside Port PhillipPrisonandthestrengthofculture behinditswalls.RunningfromMay29to June 1, this new work shines a spotlight onthehumanstoriesoftenburiedbehind headlines, particularly for Maori and Pasifika communities disproportionately impacted by incarceration in Australia. At the heart of the story is Jordan, a young Pasifika prison guard tasked with teaching haka to inmates. The role is based on NMP president Tyson Tuala’s real-life experience.
Tuala said that as Jordan walks the metaphorical and literal yellow line that separates guard from prisoner, the audience is invited to ask: What does redemption look like when you carry the weight of culture, identity, and justice on your shoulders?
The Yellow Line is co-written by Berne-Lee Edwards (NMP), Alaine Beek (ETP) and an ensemble cast which includes first-time performers with lived experience.
“Thisisn’tjustanotherprisonshow.It’s not just another Maori or Pasifika story. It’s a story of real strength – of what culture can do when systems fail us,” Tuala said.
Yellow Line will be performed on May 29 at 7pm, May 30 at 12.30pm and 7pm, May 31 at 7pm and June 1 at 2pm.
Tickets cost $50, $30 for concession card holders and students, $10 for First Nations and Indigenous people, or $38 per person when booking a group of four or more.
Details: creativebrimbank.com.au/ the-yellow-line
forNewZealandComedyFestival’sprestigious Billy T James Award.
In 2023, O’Leary made his Australian debut at Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MCIF) where his show, Everything Funny All The Time Always and was nominated for Best Newcomer.
Fresh off another MCIF run where he performed his show, Laughter? I Hardly Know Her! O’Leary will perform at the Altona Sports Club before heading off to tour the UK.
Special guests comedians Joe White, Daniel Connell, Jeremy Dooley and Leo Filipetti will support O’Leary on the night, with doors opening at 7.30pm and the first show starting at 8pm.
Pre-show early dinner is available at the Altona Sports Club bistro, but bookings are required. Tickets: https://shorturl.at/K548P
Werribee Open Range Zoo is running the Raising Rhino Experience. (Zoos Victoria)
Kiwi comedian Ray O’Leary will perform in Altona on May 28. (Supplied)
Berne-Lee Edwards and Alaine Beek. (Supplied)
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which two teams are set to compete in the 2025 A-League Women Grand Final?
2. What animal caused New Zealand cyclist Dion Smith to almost crash during the 2025 Giro d’Italia?
3. A team from which Australian state capital city is set to join the NRL in 2027?
4. Which San Antonio Spur won the 2024–25 NBA Rookie of the Year award?
5. Joe Montemurro appears set to be announced as coach of which Australian national women’s team?
6. Josaia Raisuqe played rugby sevens for which Melanesian country at the 2024 Paris Olympics?
By what name is the NHL’s Utah Hockey Club now known?
Welsh soccer club Wrexham is set to compete in which football league in 2025–26?
Australians Cameron Smith, Marc Leishman, Matt Jones and Lucas Herbert make up which LIV Golf team?
Australia’s Jack Della Maddalena was crowned champion in which weight division at UFC 315?
11. Which Victorian suburb was surprised by NBA star Josh Giddey’s unexpected appearance during a practice game?
12. A European power outage left tennis star Fernando Romboli trapped in an elevator for 30 minutes during which tennis event?
13. In a classic Friends episode, Ross and Monica compete in a heated game of which popular sport?
14. What jersey number does Travis Kelce wear for the Kansas City Chiefs?
15. Potentially the cutest in the AFL, what furry creature is the secondary mascot for Fremantle Football Club?
16. Which NFL team did Tom Brady finish his career with?
17. Former rugby player Nick Cummins is also known by what nickname?
18. A game of ice hockey is split into how many time periods?
19. A 2005 video of Pope Leo attending a game of which sport league has gone viral?
20. Which Rabbitohs player slotted a 50-metre field goal in a comeback victory against the Broncos?
21. Which sport is considered to have inspired the current format of the AFL’s interchange system?
22. Lily Mithen moved to which AFLW team over the offseason?
23. And which team did she move from?
24. In its inaugural season, which team won the BBL championship?
25. In 2024, Katy Perry performed at the halftime show of which sport?
26. Which animal features in the Dallas Mavericks’ logo?
27. New Zealand Warriors play their home games out of which ground?
28. Which soccer team won the Championship title for the 2024–25 season?
29. The 2014 film Foxcatcher involves which sport?
30. What is the nickname of Portland’s NBA team?
PUZZLES
of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 State funds (8)
5 Bug (6) 10 Small natural hill (5)
11 Ostentatiously splendid (9)
12 Without order (6)
13 Raffle (7) 14 Evoking sadness or regret (8) 15 Plaster artwork (6)
18 Hand-held curved blade for reaping (6)
20 Month (8)
21 Make better (7)
24 Flowering shrub (6)
27 Deadpan (9)
28 Group of lions (5)
29 Thanksgiving bird (6) 30 Light (8)
Grab (4) 2 Pathological self-admirer (9) 3 Greens (5) 4 Military unit (8) 6 Examiner of accounts (7)
Smog (5)
All (9) 9 Collapse (4)
14 One who assumes the worst (9) 16 Across the region (9) 17 Depraved (8) 19 Peek (coll) (4-3)
22 Document (5) 23 Revise (a piece of writing) (4) 25 Generous (5) 26 Spool (4)
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters
7
1 Who wrote the 1868 novel Little Women?
2 What was the name of the tropical cyclone that caused severe damage to northern Queensland in 2011?
3 Who was the keyboard player for The Doors?
4 What was the name of the ship on which Charles Darwin sailed to the Galápagos Islands?
5 Which 1950s poem begins with the line, 'I saw the best minds of my generation destroyed by madness, starving hysterical naked’?
6 And who wrote the poem?
No. 270
No. 238
Price drops, but not the quality
By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring
We’re all familiar with the old adage that ‘if something seems too good to be true then it probably is’.
Well,that’snotthecasewiththeCheryTiggo 7 Pro SUV that we’ve just tested where its price has dropped by $10,000 with only a minimal reduction in equipment levels.
Just over a year ago we reviewed the original Tiggo 7 Pro. Three variants were offered, Urban, Elite and Ultimate priced from $39,990 to $45,990 driveaway respectively. The first two were two-wheel drive and the third all-wheel drive
These have now been replaced with a pair of 2WD models tagged SE and SE+ selling for $29,990 and $31,990, again driveaway.
The SE in the new names stands for Special Edition and Chery confirmed that they were effectively the same vehicles and that they were effectively being cleared in advance of a new model due here later this year.
The entry-level SE loses a sunroof and powered front passenger seat when compared to the Urban but these do come standard in the SE+.
Both SE and SE+ are front-wheel drive with no AWD option.
Tiggo 7 Pro is the third model in Chery’s SUV sub-brand positioned between the small-medium Tiggo 4 and the large seven-seat Tiggo 8. Its main rivals are the fellow Chinese Haval H6 and MG HS and – more ambitiously – the Korean twins Sportage and Hyundai Tucson.
Justtoclarify,despitethedigit,Tiggo7Prois a five-seater. The Tiggo 8 adds a third row.
Styling
The look is smart and contemporary. Neat and attractive but without anything that will stand out from the crowd.
The large grille features chrome highlights with a large Chery badge at the top, framed by large blue highlights below slimline LED headlights and LED daytime running lights.
The rear features a full-width LED tail light and LED stop light above the rear window. SE+ adds a panoramic sunroof with a powered sunshade, powered tailgate and powered folding side mirrors.
Both models get 18-inch machine finished alloy wheels, black in the SE+.
There are five colour options. Nothing exciting – just white, silver or black although the SE+ does have an optional two-tone with a black roof on the white body.
Interior
There’s the high-quality feel and ambience within the Tiggo 7 Pro that you could easily passforamuchmoreexpensive,evenpremium, vehicle.
The dashboard is beautifully crafted with the twin 12.3-inch screens merged together.
The seats are comfortable and supportive. The driver’s seat in both variants has power adjustment.ThefrontpassengerintheSE+also gets power controls, SE is manual. Likewise, only the SE+ front seats have heating.
Tiggo 7 Pro has plenty of rear legroom, with air vents and a fold-down armrest for rear seat passengers.
The steering wheel in both variants is height and reach adjustable with mounted audio and Bluetooth controls.
Cargo space is an impressive 626 litres, expandable to 1672 litres with the rear seats folded. It also has a full-sized spare under the boot floor.
Engines/transmissions
Power comes from a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that puts out 137kW of power at 5500 rpm and 275Nm of torque at 2000 rpm. It’s paired with a seven-speed
dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Safety
Tiggo 7 Pro gets a five-star ANCAP rating.
Standardfeaturesincludeeightairbags,front and rear parking sensors, reversing camera, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, various lane keeping alerts and corrections, adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, integrated cruise assist, blind spot detection, and rear cross traffic alert and braking.
There’s also a door opening warning, speed limit information function, driver inattention warning, speed control assist, driver monitoring system and two Isofix child seat anchors.
SE+ adds a 360-around view camera.
The only thing really missing is head-up display which projects important information onto the lower part of the windscreen, and means you don’t have to take your eyes off the road.
Infotainment
Infotainment in both variants consists of a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, AM/FM radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, embedded SatNav and an eight-speaker Sony sound system.
A second 12.3-inch screen in front of the driver houses the instrument cluster which can be configured to suit.
There is no DAB+ digital radio.
SE+ adds a 50W wireless charger. Voice-control partially offsets the need to accessthetouchscreentooperatekeyfunctions, such as making phone calls or changing the music, without having to take their hands off the wheel.
There are USB-A and USB-C ports in the front, with another USB-A port in the rear, and 12-volt outlets in the front and the boot.
Driving
TheTiggo7ssquareprofilemakesforeasyentry althoughwefoundthetunethatplayswhenthe driver’s door is opened a bit annoying. Equally annoying is a loud pinning noise from the turn indicators.
As we seem to be commenting regularly in our reviews, especially of Chinese vehicles, there are far too many controls and features that must be accessed through the central touchscreen.
Tiggo isn’t the biggest offender, it does at least have a row of air-conditioner tabs below the screen although we found them difficult to see in strong sunlight and at night.
Despite its modest engine outputs Tiggo 4 provides capable if unexciting performance. Around town, which is likely to be its natural habitat, it’s easy to manoeuvre although the engine stop/start system was too sensitive, coming on and off regularly as we crept through roundabouts.
Butpromisingdynamicsarespoiledbyturbo lag, together with a touchy accelerator, and an indecisive, slow-to-respond auto transmission.
By the time the twin-clutch tranny works out what is required, the moment has passed. Paddle shifters would normally help overcome this but there aren’t any.
Once out of the suburbs the turbocharged four offers plenty of poke, with torque available nice and early. Steering is relatively light especially in urban conditions.
Ride is relatively firm but still comfortable enough.
There are three drive modes: Eco, Normal and Sport. They are engaged using a large rotary control located in the centre console. Eco is the default setting and is fine for routine drivingwhileSportdoessharpenperformance.
The lane correction feature is quite severe and we quickly included it in our turn-off sequence together with the speed limit and
8/10
7/10
8/10 Thirst: 7/10 Practicality: 8/10 Comfort: 7/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 9/10
driver attention alerts before taking off.
While it is not apparent on smooth well-formed roads, back roads see the wagon crash through potholes. Bumps and undulations are likely to set off a series of bouncing, up and down movements – even low speeds.
Fuel economy isn’t great. Listed at 7.0 litres per 100 kilometres, we averaged 8.2 L/100km, but that was after a run down the motorway at 6.5 L/100km. Before that we were getting 8.9 which is probably more indicative.
Thevalueequationisfurtherreducedbecause Tiggo 7 Pro needs 95 RON Premium fuel.
Summing up
Although sales of its two current models are growing rapidly the Chery brand is still relatively unknown here. Which is probably a good thing because those with long memories may recall the brand’s previous incursion into the Australian market a decade or so back.
These early models were imported independently with inferior quality and sub-standard safety features and were quickly dropped.
Everything changed when Chery re-entered the Australian market with factory-backing in 2023. It made an immediate impact based not only through low prices but also attractive styling and quality engineering backed up by a seven-year warranty.
At its current bargain price Tiggo 7 Pro should be a no-brainer for small to medium sized families. But they will need to move quickly because supply is limited and when the next model arrives later this year the price will almost certainly jump back to its previous levels.
Tiggo is covered by a seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, with roadside assistance and capped-price servicing for the same period.
At its current bargain price Tiggo 7 Pro should be a no-brainer for small to medium sized families. (Picture: Supplied)
The Western Football Netball League returned to interleague action for the first time since 2019 on Saturday morning. Joining the senior men and under-19s, the league had women’s football and netball interleague matches for the first time. Star Weekly’s Ljubica Vrankovic was out shooting the action.
Interleague returns in the west
Winning netball team. (Supplied)
Daniel Strnak. 477563_12
Darcy McPherson. 477563_03
Emma Vitalone. 477567_07
Jackson Peet and Western’s Cooper Pepi. 477563_19
Julia Nash. 477561_15
Lauren Basto. 477561_28
Majar Hikuroa Betham. 477567_02
Mariah Burton. 477561_04
Taquila Angel. 477561_07
O’Neill Moncrieff. 477563_10
Melissa Prismall. 477567_05
Melton Centrals starting new journey
Melton Centrals have been on a bit of a learning curve to start the Riddell District Football League season.
The Centrals are without a win after the first six rounds of the season under new coach Damien Zanic.
The new coach knew this year was always going to be a bit of a challenge and it’s been exactly that so far.
“It’s been a bit of a learning curve for us,” Zanic said. “We had 10 new players come into the side in round one.
“It’s been about moving the magnets around to best see where these players play best.”
Zanic said their second half against Kyneton they had shown some really good signs that they were on the right track. He said they were hoping to see more of that in coming weeks.
With a bye on the weekend, they weren’t able to continue that momentum into the following week.
Zanic said it would have been nice to keep that momentum going, but said they know
they will be a better side as the season goes on.
“It takes some time,” he said. “With work commitments and getting everyone together on the training track.
“They’re starting to get to know each other. At the halfway stage we’ll have a better idea of what positions suit and best roles.
“We’ll get some more wins on the board in the second half of the season.”
Zanic said both their senior and reserves sides were having a real crack and playing for each other.
“This year is a touch and feel sort of year,” he said. “What I have available and what I need to grow next year.”
While they had the bye last week, Zanic said they had trained like normal on Tuesday night before reviewing the weekend’s game on Thursday night and a team dinner afterwards.
Centrals face Romsey this Saturday.
Zanic said they were hoping to continue to build in that game.
Elsewhere, Diggers Rest and Melton South
both had wins on Saturday.
The Burras inflicted Riddell’s first loss in almost a year.
There was nothing in the game at three quarter time, with the Bombers taking a narrow lead into the final change.
The Burras kicked six final quarter goals to the Bombers one to claim the win, 10.8 (68)-6.9 (45).
Burras coach Shaun Campbell said these games are the one that they want to play in.
Melton South got its third win on the board as it accounted for Lancefield, 12.15 (87)-9.8 (62).
Broden Collins and Sam Darley were named the Panthers best.
Tara Murray
Western FL win at home
By Tara Murray
The Western Football League senior men put in a commanding performance as it made a winning return to interleague.
The WFL hosted the Southern Football League on Saturday at Avalon Airport Oval in a big day for the league.
While the weather gods didn’t shine on the match up, the WFL was able to come away with a solid win, 10.16 (76)-9.8 (62).
Western coach Chris Muratore said it was a really great experience to be part of.
“It started a couple of weeks ago and we emphasised with the group that we wanted it to be a great experience, win, lose or draw,” he said.
“We wanted to have fun and this is why we do it. To come out on top after the last couple of weeks has been fantastic.”
Muratore said he was really happy with the squad they had put together and that there was a real good bond between the group.
He said all the guys were there for the right
reason
“It was really special the buy-in of everyone and everyone wanted to be there. They were determined to win and wanted to play as a team, not 23 individuals.”
Western got out to a good start with the only three goals of the first quarter. Southern was able to reduce the margin at half time, but Western had missed its chances.
The Western made good use of the scoring end in the third quarter to extend the lead to 29 points at the final break.
Southern came hard in the final quarter but it wasn’t enough with Western holding on.
“We were in control until the last eight minutes of the game,” Muratore said. “We had 26 scoring shots and had another five or six go out on the full.
“We were in full control. At half time the game looked good for us and we had to keep on going.
“They took the game on late and it could have gone one way or the other. They came home hard and were able to hold on.”
ParksideforwardTomCondonwasawarded the best on ground medal. Muratore said he kicked four or five goals, and missed five shots as well.
Muratore said Darcy McPherson on the wing was stiff not to win the medal, while his brother Caleb, who captained the side, led the way in the middle of the ground.
The coach said they had a lot of contributors across the board with everyone contributing.
With a successful return to interleague, Muratore said he hopes it returns again.
He said the standard of the game was higher than some Victorian Football League matches.
“After the game I got some really nice messages and conversations about how they enjoyed the program.
“You could see in their eyes on Thursday night the genuinely wanted to play and got going.
“I think 95 per cent will want to play again.
“Hopefully they’ll go back to their local clubs and say it was a great experience.”
Sports shorts
EDFL
Hillside made it three wins in a row in the Essendon District Football League division 1 competition on Saturday. Facing Roxburgh Park, the Sharks were pushed all the day in the 10.13 (73)-10.1 (61) win. Jackson McMenamin kicked four goals in a best on ground performance in his first senior game of the season. The Sharks are now up to fifth on the ladder after six rounds. Meanwhile in division 2, Burnside Heights fell just short of Rupertswood. The Bears led by 15 points at three quarter time before Sharks finished off strongly to win, 12.13 (85)-9.6 (60). Tyson Iglesias was the Sharks best.
Ballarat NL
Bacchus Marsh got its third win of the Ballarat Netball League season, while Darley was also on the winners list on Saturday. The Cobras were at home against Ballarat and led at each on the breaks as they won 53-33. Kimberly Philipps shot 33 goals for the Cobras. The Devils were too strong for Sebastopol, winning 60-28. Olivia Cawthray shot 44 goals for the Devils. Melton’s tough run continued on Saturday as it lost to East Point, 62-22. None of the Bloods big off season signings took to the court for a second straight week as they go through more challenges.
Big V
The Melton Thoroughbreds had a tough night out against the Mildura Heat on Saturday night in the Big V men’s division 2 competition. After a fairly even first quarter, the Heat turned up the screws to run away with a 118-74 win. The Thoroughbreds had just seven players made the road trip, with skipper Liam Allison top scored with 22 points.
A-League
Western United has its work cut out for it if its to make the A-League men’s grand final. Western trails Melbourne City 3-0 after the first match of the best of two game series.
Evan Donoghue. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 409292_25
Western’s Bruno Laguda tries to get away from Southern’s Sam Hilton-Joyce. 477563_22
Georgies’ strong run of good form continues
Caroline Springs George Cross has found its groove in the Victorian Premier League 1 competition.
The Georgies have now won their last four games and scored five goals in each of the past two matches including on the weekend.
Georgies coach Eric Vassiliadis said they’d made a few changes to get things to start falling their way.
“It’s a difficult competition and seeing the results, anyone can beat anyone,” he said.
“We made some changes to the squad to keep people on their feet.
“We changed our tactical set up defensively as well and we’ve worked on mindset and what we want to achieve.
“The players are working really hard.”
Vassiliadis said while happy with the run of form, they know they can’t take their foot off the pedal.
The Georgies have moved up to third on the table with their four wins in a row.
“We have to stay focused and make sure we stay focused,” he said.
“It’s a unique year the way it is with promotion spots and play off spots the way the
top six is.
“Wehavetocontinuetofocusonbehaviours and the right mindset.”
Vassiliadis said Saturday’s result against Langwarrin was a surprising one, with the Georgies winning 5-1.
The Geogies led 2-0 at half time before increasing it to 4-0. Langwarrin got one back, beforetheGeorgiesrespondedwithalategoal.
Saif-Eddine Sakhi scored three goals for the Georgies.
“They had no answer for Saif,” Vassiliadis said. “ We were aggressive defensively as well.
“It was good for the club to do it front of our people, it was a good day for us.”
Vassiliadis said they had been able to score all season but for them it was about limiting the opposition hitting the scoreboard.
He said they were starting to get rewarded for their hard work.
Lapse costs Warriors
The Western Warriors were made to rue a poor third quarter in their Victorian Netball League loss to the Casey Demons on Wednesday night.
It was a good contest in the first half with the Warriorsleadingbyonegoalatthemainbreak.
A 24-13 third quarter in the favour of the Demons turned the game and the lead got out to nearly 20 goals.
While the Warriors were able to peg it back slightly, the damage was down as the Warriors lost 77-68.
Warriors coach Kim Bailey said the result showed what happened when they didn’t play the full 60 minutes.
“You can’t win games when you have a 24-13 quarter,” she said. “We lost our speed on the ball and that is because we had a frantic first half.
“We need to make sure we continue with that consistency right through the 60 minutes. You can’t win a game if you’re going to play 45 minutes, that’s what we did.”
Bailey said the lead got out too much for them to have any chance of getting back into the game.
She said they struggled with the pace and Emma Ryde in the Demons shooting circle.
“We are still working out combinations and getting everyone familiar with each other,” she said.
“It’s a long haul. I would like to say we wanted it to happen over night, we knew it wasn’t going to happen.”
The Warriors suffered an injury blow with Olivia Ellis falling during the game and left the court with a suspected broken arm.
Bailey said it’s a pretty nasty injury by the looks of it.
On the other side, Bailey said they were hopeful of getting Ruby Shannon and Eliza Gollant back for their next game.
“We’re really confident we’ll have Ruby back and Eliza played a quarter on the weekend, will see her again on Saturday and hopefully we will be able to run her a couple of quarters through.
“We have some real talent in attack,” he said. “We’re getting into some positions and more times than not finding the back of the net.”
The Georgies are at home this week against North Sunshine Eagles, The Eagles won the match between the sides back in round one.
Vassiliadis said the old Sunshine rivals have been in good form in recent weeks.and they won’t take them lightly.
Meanwhile in the FV state league 4 west competition, Melton Phoenix and Westside Strikers both had wins.
The Phoenix beat Barwon, 4-2, while the Strikers beat Balmoral, 4-3.
Both sides sit on 15 points.
In state league 5 west, Spring Hills lost to Maidstone United, 2-1.
Partytime at Melton trots
A couple of Andy Gath-prepared Group 1-winning trotters couldn’t have been more impressive at Melton on Saturday night.
However, it’s unlikely either Watts Up Partytime or Im Ready Jet will contest this year’s Inter Dominion series at Albion Park in July.
“For a start Im Ready Jet wasn’t nominated for the series as this is her last preparation before she heads off to stud, and Watts Up Partytime is a very good short course horse but struggles over 2240 metres and beyond and the final is over 3100 metres,” Gath said.
The Gath stable will be represented in the series by another Group 1-winning performer, Callmethebreeze.
Somewhat of a forgotten horse, Callmethebreeze hasn’t been seen on the racetrack since being well beaten in the Bill Collins Sprint at Kilmore in October last year due to foot issues.
Andy Gath is confident the French-bred trotter will face the starter in the first round of heats in Brisbane on July 5.
“I know he hasn’t raced for a while, but he has done plenty of groundwork and is close to trialling,” he said.
Watts Up Partytime confirmed his status as the premier sprint trotter in the state when he comfortably accounted for his rivals after sitting parked in the Haras Des Trotteurs Trot.
“He’s a lovely horse over his right distance and you don’t fluke winning a race like the Great Southern Star,” he said.
“For whatever reason over the short he seems to excel and each preparation he gets better and handles the workload.
“We really miss someone like Liz, she can just come through and take those intercepts out of nowhere.”
Bailey said they weren’t sure when Abbey Ellis would return after sustaining a shoulder injury while playing with the Opals but were confident in their attacking end without her.
The Warriors 23 and under side produced one of its best performances to come away with a 60-58 win.
Bailey said it was really good for the side.
“They had been in front and let the lead go a couple of weeks ago, they really fought hard and were really composed tonight [Wednesday],” she said.
“Something we haven’t seen a lot of. Moves done at the right time and we were really happy for them.”
The Warriors faces the Wilson Storage Southern Saints this Wednesday.
Bailey said she thought it would be a good match up.
Tara Murray
“He got into that race well tonight, but he will be racing in free-for-alls from now on.”
Later in the night, Im Ready Jet proved a class above the other mares in the Waste Sense Trot.
Sent out a favourite, Im Ready Jet worked to the front with 1600 metres to travel,andwhenKateGathaskedherfor more effort, the eight-year-old bounded away around the home turn to score by 13 metres from Aldebaran Acrux in a mile rate of 1:57.6.
Kate said she was happy how the mare responded after finishing fourth behind Susan Is Her Name in the Group 1 Macarthur Mile for mares at Menangle last week.
“It was a really strong win, and she bounced back good from last week,” she said.
John Dunne
Tara Murray
Joshua Whiteley. (Ljubica Vrankovic) 458408_25
Western Warriors’ Kim Borger. (Grant Treeby/Netball Victoria)
Ruby Gorton named in under-16 national squad
Ruby Gorton keeps going from strength to strength on the hockey field.
The Eynesbury resident, who has been part of several state sides, has been selected in her first Hockey Victoria national squad.
The squad will represent Australia at under-16 level later this year in Malaysia .
“It’s such an honour to be put on a pathway wherethere’ssuchanopportunitytorepresent your country at an elite level,” she said.
“Being able to compete across the world which I think is a once in a lifetime experience that I had to work so hard for, so seeing the work pay off is so exciting to see.
“I have worn the green and gold at School Sport Australia, but to wear it for Hockey Australia would be a dream come true.”
Gorton’s selection in the Australian squad came after a stunning under-16 national championships representing Victoria.
She had two best on grounds and two player of the match awards in that tournament and was the second leading goal scorer as Victoria won bronze.
Gorton said she thought it was her best championships so far.
“I had to play in a completely different position to what I’m used to playing for state,” she said.
“At first I was unsure but grew to love the new attacking position. I got second leading goal scorer in the competition on six goals which I was really proud of.
“My team made the semi final, where we were eventually beaten by Queensland. We finishedthetournamentwithabronzemedal.”
Gorton said for her the goal at every event is to create a sense of achievement and show where her hard work.
There’s another national championships on the horizon for Gorton, who will play for Victoria in the under-18 nationals.
She said she was excited for not only the high quality of the tournament but also the
Western’s winning start
The Western Football League women’s interleague side got off to a winning start with a convincing win against the Southern Football League on Saturday.
While it was a return to interleague for Western, it was the first time the league had fielded a senior women’s side.
With the majority of the stars of the competition putting their hands up, Western was able to put out a really strong squad. It showed on the field as they controlled the game all day in the 6.8 (44)-2.7 (19).
Caroline Springs coach Alex O’Shea, who coached the Western side, said it was a big occasion for everyone who was involved.
“I quite enjoyed it,” she said. “It was a really enjoyable opportunity.
“There was lots of support from the league and they spoke about being transparent and making it enjoyable for the players.
“It was an honour to represent the league in the first interleague for women’s.”
O’Shea said it was difficult to pick a final squad of 25 with so many talented players
putting their hands up.
She said there had been massive growth from the first training session until game day.
“For myself to have that new experience working with different players and coaches was really good,” she said. “It was a different preparation for us.”
On Saturday, Western won the toss and elected to kick with the wind in the first third.
They kicked three goals in the opening term, including an absolute beauty to Mariah Burton just before quarter time.
O’Shea said the goal was the goal of the day across all three matches.
Southern were unable to convert in the second term when they had the wind as Western maintained a lead at half time.
Western kicked the only goal of the third quarter before two teams went goal for goal in the final quarter.
O’Shea said the focus of the side was for the side to have fun out.
“We had never played before and played together as a team,” she said. “We wanted
level and experience of the coaching.
“I’m hoping to really develop as a player and build some strength as I will be one of the youngest in the tournament being below the bottom age,” she said. “With a lot to prove, I know the national selectors will be observing my performance prior to selection to a tournament in Malaysia in November.”
Gorton said she was hoping to stay on the national pathway through the age groups and end up playing for the Hockeyroos.
She said the Olympics remain the goal.
While she’s got her national and state commitments, Gorton is also busy playing for Footscray in the Hockey Victoria Vic league competition.
“This season will be tough again, playing in the highest competition level of Victoria,” she said.
“Still, hopefully now with a few years of experience up my sleeve it will come naturally.
“I am now one of the more experienced players in the group and we have gelled well. With such a young team we are certainly up against it, but I know the Footscray ‘Bulldog Spirit’ will get us over the line.”
Tara Murray
Bloods suffer their first
loss
Melton suffered its first in year as East Point got some revenge in the Ballarat Football League grand final rematch on Saturday.
The Bloods last loss came on May 18 last year to East Point and it was the Kangaroos who got the better of them on Saturday again, just one day short of a year from to the exact date of their last loss.
The Kangaroos led at the first break, before the Bloods held a narrow two point lead at the main break.
It was two points the other way heading into the final quarter.
East Point kicked three goals to one in the final quarter to come away with an 11.13 (79)-10.10 (70) win.
Jordan Kight kicked three goals for the Bloods, while Kyle Borg kicked two.
Harrison Hanley and Blake Souter were named their best.
The loss brings the Bloods back to the pack and they are now one of four teams with a 5-1 record at the top of the table.
them to enjoy the experience and have fun and they did that in the first quarter.
“We believed in ourselves and carried it for four quarters.”
O’Shea said the Southern line up was a really competitive outfit and set up really well off the ball.
She said she was rapt about how her side moved the ball.
Burton and Caitlin Pretty kicked two goals each for the Western side.
Burton was named player of the match.
O’Shea said Burton was really clean with the ball all day.
Other standouts were Charlize Sindoni, who won plenty of the ball in the middle of the ground,whileKeelySpiteriwasbusyonawing.
The Basto sisters, Meghann and Lauren, both stopped a lot of ball in defence.
O’Shea said she was hopeful that women’s interleague would return again next season.
“Hopefully the league is keen to have it again,” she said. “I would love to be part of it again, it was a great experience.”
Darley moved right to the top with their second 100 point win in three weeks, this time beating Sebastopol.
The Devils jumped out of the blocks and led 49-2 at quarter time.
The Burras matched the Devils in the second quarter, before the Devils found another level in the second half to run away with a 22.6 (138)-5.7 (37) win.
Will Johnson kicked four goals for the Devils as five players scored multiple goals.
Luther Baker and Nick Hind were named the Devils best.
Elsewhere, Bacchus Marsh fell just short against Ballarat.
The Cobras trailed all day and came hardinthefinalquarter,butweren’table to make the most of their opportunities as they lost, 11.8 (74)-.9.14 (68).
Jake McCreery kicked three goals for the Cobras, with James McDaid named their best.
Ruby Gorton. (ClickinFocus)
Southern’s Brooke Borchard and Alyssa Weston tackle Western’s Kyah Tessari. (Ljubica Vrankovic: 477561)
