JUNE 9, 2020 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
Cuddle a cub A chance to get up close with one of Australia’s cutest national animals is coming next month. The Australian Dingo Foundation in Toolern Vale will hold a series of open days from July 4 to give people the chance to learn about the dingo, and cuddle and photograph this year’s cubs. Sanctuary supervisor Kevin Newman said it was an important part of the work they conduct all year. “We’re the largest dingo sanctuary in the world,” Mr Newman said. “We rescue them, and we also have a conservation breeding program that we run to maintain the purity of the species and also supply zoos and fauna parks. “Part of the socialisation training for the puppies is for them to meet as many people as possible, and this also acts as our major fundraiser each year. “It’s a lot of fun,” Mr Newman said. “We only have 20 people in each session … it’s a good chance for people to see one of Australia’s native animals up close.” The open days will run every weekend from July 4 until September 13 https://dingo-foundation.square.site The new dingo cubs. Inset: Kahlia Blake with Pumbah. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 209455
Ewen McRae
Melton station boost By Ewen McRae Melton train station will receive a much-needed upgrade as part of a state government plan to kick-start the economy. A long neglected part of the train line, Melton station will share in more than $23 million to improve stations and stops on the public transport network. While the speciics of the upgrades for each station are still being inalised, Star Weekly understands they will include installation of better seating, upgraded
passenger information, toilet facilities and improvements to passenger accessibility. More undercover areas and Myki barriers to assist with commuter low are also expected. Melton MP Steve McGhie welcomed the funding announcement. He said the station had been one of the chief concerns of residents in recent years. “We heard what people were saying about the changes of the platforms and the condition of the station, and I’m pleased that the minister for public transport has listened,” Mr McGhie said.
“It’s great to have conirmation that there will be improvements at the station, because it is the busiest station along the line and this is much-needed for its users.” he upgrades will not be on the same scale as recent works at nearby stations in Rockbank and Bacchus Marsh, however a future electriication of the train line could lead to the station being upgraded further. Mr McGhie said he hoped works on the station would begin soon. “he sooner the better really,” he said. “We’re still working out the speciics, but I
would expect something to happen before the state budget later in the year. “his is a statewide infrastructure build born out of COVID-19, so I would expect works to start before the state budget later in the year.” Other works announced last week include $90.5 million for regional rail track maintenance, to upgrade and replace signalling, sleepers and ballast. he package also includes $62.6 million to enhance maintenance of V/Line and tram rolling stock to support ongoing operations.
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