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SEPTEMBER 22, 2020 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

A message to our wonderful community, especially our students: We are thinking of you, we are missing you. We look forward to having you back. Lalor Secondary College PH 9463 7300, 118 David St, Lalor | www.lalorsc.vic.edu.au

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Students take the reins

Al Siraat College teachers use green screen for student learning . (Supplied)

Changing the narrative The team at Al Siraat College is very excited to be hosting the upcoming Social Media for Social Change Webinar, in collaboration with Cinespace Inc. This webinar is a part of the Interfaith Youth Forum project, a two-year program taking a grassroots approach to racial and religious discrimination and proudly supported and funded by the Victorian government. An expert panel, from various social media platforms, will discuss the impact media and social media content created by young people can have in countering racial and religious discrimination, with a focus on Islamophobia. The question will be asked, “How can young people reclaim their own narrative and shape public narrative, using a range of accessible media, while also touching on media literacy?” Daniel Schultheis, founder and director of

Cinespace Inc, says that for young people digital media are very much part of their daily lives. “This is perhaps even more so during the pandemic,” he says. “It’s important that young people become active creators, not just passive consumers of media, and … recognise how media is used to shape narratives in society.” Members of the community are welcome to register for the webinar at /www.eventbrite. com.au/e/social-media-for-social-changetickets-116952154041?aff=ebdssbonlinesearch Project partners include Whittlesea Interfaith Network, Cinespace Inc, St Monica’s College, Our Race, City of Whittlesea and Victoria Police. Al Siraat College, 45 Harvest Home Road, Epping. Inquiries: 9407 7000 or www.alsiraat.vic.edu.au

This has been a milestone year for leadership at Loyola College. Student leadership has always been an integral part of the college; however, it was felt there was a lack of student action and voice, so a new role of student leadership co-ordinator was created. James Falcone has taken up the role of student leadership co-ordinator and works with students who have been appointed to leadership positions across years 7-12. “On top of their titled role, students in leadership are also assigned a portfolio group to work in for the year,” Mr Falcone says. “In the portfolio students choose any issue relevant to their portfolio’s mission statement and work together to promote actions of social justice. “The students totally drive the portfolio while I merely facilitate the meetings. There have been some great successes throughout 2020 despite trying circumstances. “The Ignatian mission portfolio has run a successful social media campaign educating Loyola’s Instagram community about the persecution of the Rohingya people. “The sustainability portfolio promoted sustainable tips and tricks while in lockdown, including plating your own fruit and vegetables. “The social justice portfolio decided to focus on reconciliation week and has pushed to create curriculum change, now having the movie In my Blood it Runs shown to all year 9 students to promote cultural understanding of our nation’s first people. “Finally, the wellbeing portfolio is looking at canteen reforms, running surveys and petitions to increase canteen nutrition, and is now working on a colour run to raise awareness for mental health. “Overall, 2020 has been a major success. Student voice and student action around the

Student action around Loyola College has dramatically increased this year. (Supplied)

college have dramatically increased despite remote learning. We all wait for term 4 with eager anticipation as planning commences for 2021. “It has been a pleasure to work with such capable, hardworking, and dedicated students.” Loyola College, 325 Grimshaw Street, Watsonia. Inquiries: 9434 4466 or www.loyola.vic.edu.au

LOYOLA COLLEGE

W E B I N A R

Limited places available for Year 7 2021. Enrolment applications for Year 7 2022 closing 9 October 2020. For information please contact our College Registrar: 03 9433 0203 or registrar@loyola.vic.edu.au

College Tours Visit our website and explore our campus through a virtual tour, then meet our Principal live online to answer all your questions. PA R T N E R S I N C L U D E

loyola.vic.edu.au/bookatour 325 Grimshaw Street, Watsonia VIC 3087

The Interfaith Youth Forum - Visual Media Project is proudly supported and funded by the Victorian Government Proudly supported by Victoria Police

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2W NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

www.loyola.vic.edu.au

03 9434 4466

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enrolment

FEATURING ... EDUCATION CHOICES The college has a proven track record in industry training. (Supplied)

Marymede students. (Supplied)

Opportunity abounds Marymede Catholic College in South Morang has gone ahead in leaps and bounds since it launched 16 years ago, recently opening a multimillion-dollar Materials and Technology Centre that sits alongside the Trade Skills Centre. Principal Michael Kenny says the next focus of the P-12 College is further development of the Performing Arts Centre. “These excellent facilities and resources, together with wonderful experienced staff, give our students access to opportunities to discover their best selves and to take on the workforce and world,” he says. “To inspire our students to be their best, we have a big focus on character development. We teach and model care for others and an awareness of the needs of people less fortunate, as well as develop in them a sense of pride in their school and what it offers. “Our students feel they belong, are cared for

and safe, as well as challenged to do their best. … There’s nothing holding them back from reaching for the heights. “We also believe it’s the strong partnership between staff, students and parents which translates to better informed parents and improved opportunities for their children. “And, importantly, we offer a pathway for every student – regardless of skills, interest and abilities.” Mr Kenny concludes by saying that 2021 will be an exciting time to enrol at the college, and he welcomes inquiry from parents as they make the important decision of choosing a school. Marymede Catholic College, 60 Williamsons Road, South Morang. Inquiries: 9407 9000 or www.marymede.vic.edu.au

Real world teachings Known for having the best applied learning educators in the state, Peter Lalor Vocational College in Lalor is a modern trade school specialising in hands-on applied learning. Principal Rod Sheehan says the school focuses solely on preparing students for the world of work – apprenticeships, traineeships and employment – as well as further education. “The college is unique,” he says, “in exclusively offering the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) and Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses at years 10-12 levels. We also have a year 9 hands-on program.” “And our teachers have combined expertise in both curriculum and student wellbeing. We … take pride in our ability to tailor the learning environment to suit … each student.” Mr Sheehan says the college’s approach is strongly driven by building authentic relationships with students. “We have adopted a wellbeing-centred approach to meet the needs of individual students.”

The college is much more than a school, Mr Sheehan continues. “We’re also a Community Learning Hub sharing our facilities with a Community Garden, Men’s Shed, Community Kitchen, International School and other community organisations – all of which enrich our … environment.” “A fully functioning hair and beauty salon and commercial kitchen are on campus, plus we also house Outer Northern Trade Training Centre which specialises in building and construction training courses.” “We’ve built strong relationships with industry and training and apprenticeship groups, all providing a fast track into employment for many of our students.” Enrolments for next year are now open. Peter Lalor Vocational College, 35 Duncan Road, Lalor. Inquiries: 9464 0122 or www.peterlalor.vic.edu.au

Give your little ones the start they deserve

It’s time to begin your Marymede journey. Limited places now available for Year 5 2021 - Apply now! Year 7 2022 applications close 9 October

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60 Williamsons Road, South Morang VIC 3752 03 9407 9000 | www.marymede.vic.edu.au registrar@marymede.vic.edu.au 12460011-DL37-20

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3W NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

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Education that offers a world of opportunities Parade College has been opening a world of opportunities for young men for more than 150 years. The college’s Bundoora and Preston campuses belong to the national body of Catholic schools known as Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA). Parade College, in common with these schools, takes its inspiration from Edmund Rice, founder of the Christian Brothers through the active promotion of academic excellence. Last year, two students scored more than 99 for their ATAR, 35 students scored more than 90, a third of students scored more than 80 and half achieved more than 70. Principal Andy Kuppe said Parade College offers a strong, caring environment through its pastoral house system. “Our tutors really get to know our boys and their families over a three-year period,” Mr Kuppe says. “Our young men are challenged to achieve as highly as possible in their academic studies as they discern the appropriate pathway to their future ambitions. “They are also encouraged through the various co-curricular offerings to grow into people of good heart who have healthy self-respect, who value right relationships with other people, and who can offer themselves in service to the needy and marginalised people in our society.” There is a designated VCE area and a state-of-the-art, learning centre where students engage in an extensive curriculum and a huge range of co-curricular opportunities. The school also offers specialised advanced placement and scholarship programs and provides excellent sporting facilities, high performance classes, a sports institute for year 7s at Preston from next year and a sports

Parade College students. (Supplied)

academy with links to Latrobe University, Northern Knights, Melbourne City and the Diamond Valley Basketball Association. Parade College partners with Mercy College for a musical and drama performance each year as part of its innovative performing arts program. As a Registered Training Organisation,

Parade also offers pathways including both VET and VCAL in purpose-built facilities. “Our VCAL students gain excellent employment opportunities, further education or training,” Mr Kuppe says. “With long experience in responding to the particular educational needs of young men, the college offers many opportunities for growth through

its sports programs, cultural activities, service to the community, retreats and liturgies and outdoor education” Parade College, 1436 Plenty Road, Bundoora and 8 Clifton Grove, Preston. Inquiries: 9468 3300 or visit www.parade.vic.edu.au

Educating young men for 150 years Enrolments for current Year 5 boys close on October 9 2020 www.parade.vic.edu.au

State-of-the-art facilities

Specialists in boys’ education

Exciting pathways await

Scholarships available

A world of opportunities

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Sports Institute & Academy

4W NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

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The needs of the child are at the centre of decision-making at The Kilmore International School. (Pictures: Supplied)

Shaping world-ready, future-ready students As an International Baccalaureate World School, The Kilmore International School seeks to cultivate young women and men who have a true understanding of themselves, their strengths, their weaknesses, their values, and their view of the world. So asserts the school’s principal Peter Cooper, who explains that his students are taught to embrace an ever-changing world with confidence, engage others with a positive and loving attitude, and be prepared to act when needed. He believes that a good school has certain key characteristics that are readily recognisable. “A good school cares for the individual, practices diversity, offers experiences for growth, is grounded in community, values the learning process, and has teachers that are respectful and respected. “And, importantly, the needs of the child are placed at the centre of its decision-making. The Kilmore International School has these characteristics embedded in its culture and daily practice.” Such an ambitious environment takes commitment and teamwork, Mr Cooper continues. “Students are joined in their journey by highly qualified, experienced and inspirational teachers – teachers who understand that a child will not care about how much they know, until they know how much they care.”

throughout the world, taking with them a joy of learning and a willingness to make a positive difference to the lives of others.

Curriculum The curriculum is designed to challenge capable and motivated students by developing higher-order problem solving and advanced thinking skills. Teachers promote learning by using a variety of strategies, routines and practices that emphasise individualised instruction. With the support of parents, students are encouraged to develop the study habits, homework schedules, and task-focused approach necessary to reach their full potential.

International baccalaureate diploma program

School motto lived out

Students, up to and including Year 10, study an advanced Australian Curriculum, moving through with pace and breadth in preparation for the IB Diploma. A demanding two-year program of study of the traditional academic disciplines, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program in Years 11 and 12 emphasises inquiry-based and independent learning, as well as rigorous assessment; exactly the skills needed to succeed at university. With evidence that IB students perform better in higher education than their peers, the diploma is recognised and welcomed by leading universities and colleges around the world.

The heart of a Kilmore International School education is expressed in its motto: Excellentia Academica Persequenda – ‘in pursuit of academic excellence’. Graduates attend leading universities

The Kilmore International School, 40 White Street, Kilmore. Inquiries: 5782 2211 or www.kilmore.vic.edu.au 5W NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

(Pictures: Supplied)

FEATURING ... EDUCATION CHOICES

Educating for the future The Australian International Academy of Education (AIA) is dedicated to the provision of high-quality education for students from Foundation to Year 12. Australian International Academy is an International Baccalaureate school offering the (IB) programmes at all three campuses in Melbourne, as well as the local Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE). The programmes allow AIA to enhance its local curriculum and to achieve its mission of developing productive Australian citizens who will help to create a better and more humane

world through intercultural understanding and respect. At the Australian International Academy of Education it is believed that each child is a unique individual. AIA strives to deliver a quality education to students in a nurturing, enriching, comfortable and safe learning environment in pursuit of academic and spiritual excellence. The Academy offers a broad and a well-balanced curriculum with global perspectives to students in primary, secondary and post-secondary schooling.

The Academy enjoins its students to cultivate a global perspective and a universalist outlook on life. Students are encouraged to constantly seek to broaden their horizons in a spirit of tolerance, compassion and co-operation with one another â€“ and with others outside the school. AIA provides a wide range of co-curricular activities that extend and complement the core curriculum, enrich student lives and develop their skills. For details on Australian International Academy of Education, visit www.aia.vic.edu.au

Melbourne Secondary Campus, 56 Bakers Road, North Coburg. Inquiries: 9350 4533 King Khalid Primary Campus, 653 Sydney Road, Coburg. Inquiries: 9354 0833 Caroline Springs Campus, 183-191 Caroline Springs Boulevard, Caroline Springs. Inquiries: 8372 5446

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6W NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

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Learning taken to a higher level

Laurimar Primary School offers a focused curriculum and a culture of care. (Supplied)

“A balanced, engaging and comprehensive educational program challenges our students to extend their learning and caters for all individual needs through CAFÉ Reading, VOICES Writing, Soundwaves spelling and comprehensive numeracy pedagogy.

“Laurimar Primary School has achieved a great deal over the past decade, however, as a school community, we all look to a bright future with great optimism and excitement and constantly strive to take the learning to higher levels.

“We have a strong focus on excellence in primary education for all students.” Laurimar Primary School, 1 Armidale Road, Doreen. Inquiries: 9717 7100 or visit www.laurimarps.vic.edu.au

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Laurimar Primary is an established school, now in its 12th year. Principal Jason McBean says as students journey through the school, they gain more than just a great education, they receive opportunities both within and beyond the classroom. “Laurimar Primary School has a strong history, but our eyes are set firmly ahead: Educating young people of character for a global future,” Mr McBean says. “Our aim is to challenge students to be the very best they can be. Our role is to help every student reach their full potential through setting personal goals. “The skills needed for the 21st century, which support a love of learning that goes beyond the classroom, are actively embraced by our school. A high emphasis is placed on the development of social and emotional learning of every child through a dedicated team.” Laurimar Primary School has outstanding physical resources designed to provide students with the best possible educational opportunities and learning outcomes. The modern facilities and 21st Century teaching and learning pedagogy represent an exciting opportunity for students and parents and have established the school’s strong culture, values and nature. Mr McBean says the school is committed to Information and Communication Technologies with flexibility to allow access anywhere within the learning spaces, and also to the academic, social and emotional learning and personal growth of every student. “A focused curriculum and a culture of care enables us to meet the needs of all,” he says. “Our school is well resourced to meet the demands of the Victorian curriculum.

7W NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

Information Session for Prospective Families, online via Zoom 7-8pm 20 October 2020 Register via our website for event details

ENROL NOW 2021

The Kilmore International School Years 3 - 12 Co-educational Non-denominational Day and Boarding School

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Family doing it for dad Trevor Lambert’s family is getting behind his fight with cancer and trying to make sure others don’t go through the same battle. Trevor, known as Bluey, is fighting brain cancer a second time round, having had a tumor removed once before. His friends and family have signed up with Walk4BrainCancer to help raise funds for Cure Brain Cancer Foundation. Trevor’s 16-year-old son Billy has already raised more than $5000 and is aiming to walk 50 kilometres throughout the month. The fundraiser culminates with a virtual event on September 27, by which time the Bluey’s crew hopes to have collectively walked 2000 kilometres and raised more than $25,000. “My grandmother [Pam Rycroft] and brother [Lochie Robinson] thought it was a good idea,” Billy said. “So we all got around it.” Billy said his dad has joined him on some walks. “He’s really proud of us … on Father’s Day he broke down as we’re not only supporting him, but others as well.” To donate: http://ow.ly/GRun50BqR5G Tara Murray

The Lambert family: Trevor with wife Jen and kids Tobey, 12, Billy, 16, Benji, 10, Lacey, 6, Lochie, 21 and Tahli, 15. (Damjan Janevski) 215327_01

Deaths ‘heartbreaking’ By Tara Murray A Victorian coroner has found there needs to be more cultural support for vulnerable south Asian women in Whittlesea following a rise in suicides. Last year, the Coroners Court set up an investigation into the spike in deaths by suicides in 2018 among south Asian women living in Whittlesea. In the findings released earlier this month, Coroner Audrey Jamieson acknowledged there was an increase in suicides among south Asian women in Whittlesea during 2018, compared with one similar death between 2009-2015.

Ms Jamieson looked at the deaths of four women after concerns were raised about the number of suicides in the region by Mill Park Sergeant Damien Lehmann. Whittlesea Community Legal Service’s Chris Howse instigated the proceedings. A number of submission were made to the inquest, raising concerns that women from south Asian countries could be affected by several stressors including family violence, extreme financial control and social isolation. Dowry demands, language and cultural barriers in understanding women’s rights, concerns regarding immigration status, and the stigma of divorce in south Asian cultures, were

among other issues raised in the submissions. Ms Jamieson’s recommendations included a review of support services for the health and wellbeing of south Asian women in Whittlesea, including engaging with service providers and other stakeholders to identify opportunities to improve access to, and engagement with, such services. She also recommended that Victoria Police allocate family violence investigation units to investigate suspected intentional deaths of women in Whittlesea from multicultural communities where prior family violence or social isolation may be contributing factors. The Crossroads to Community Wellbeing Project Working Group, set up by Whittlesea

council, Whittlesea Community Connections, Victoria Police, the Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network, Berry Street and Dr Manjula O’Connor is hoping to meet with the Department of Health and Human Services in light of the coroner’s findings. Whittlesea council panel of administrators chair Lydia Wilson said the findings were heartbreaking. She said the working group needed more funding for culturally specific, community-led programs and services to address the issues raised in the report. The council also wants the state government to fund an Orange Door Access Point in Whittlesea to support people experiencing family violence.

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Drop in virus cases gives hope By Tara Murray Active COVID-19 cases in Hume and Whittlesea continue to drop as metro Melbourne prepares to move to the first step on the state’s reopening roadmap next week. Cases across the state have continued to drop in the past week, with just new 11 cases recorded on Monday – the lowest since June 16, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. The 14-day case average in metro Melbourne has dropped to 34.4. The 14-day average needs to be between 30 and 50 cases a day in order for

restrictions to ease on September 28. The changes to restrictions from next week are set to include allowing public gatherings of up to five people from a maximum of two households for up to two hours. Outside exercise is permitted with a personal trainer, while childcare will reopen to non-essential workers. Some work restrictions will ease, with more workplaces permitted under the second stage. Overall, there are 743 active cases across Victoria. As of Sunday, Hume had 56 active cases, the fifth-highest in the state, down from 128 cases on September 6 and 339 on August

20. Of the current cases in Hume, 25 are in the 3064 postcode, which has the sixth-highest number of active cases in the state. The 3049 postcode has 10 active cases. Overall, there have been 1644 cases in Hume since the pandemic began, the third-most in the state behind Wyndham and Brimbank. Four Hume locations are on the high-risk location list as of Friday, according to the DHHS. People who attended Craigieburn Central on September 11, Greenvale Lakes Woolworths on September 6, Roxburgh Park Coles on September 6 and 10 and Roxburgh Park

Lake health on the agenda

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A sweetener for RSCPA

You’re invited to put your baking skills to the test as part of RSPCA Victoria’s annual Cupcake Day. Held on October 26, Cupcake Day encourages participants to bake sweetgoods and treats and raise money for animals in need. RSPCA Victoria chief executive Liz Walker said the organisation usually raises about $230,000 each year to care for 17,000 animals that enter its shelters each year. She said the funds were needed now more than ever. “Cupcake Day is one of our favourite times of the year,” she said.

Freshplus on September 10 may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 and are at a higher risk of contracting it. In Whittlesea, there are just 23 active cases, nine of those are from Epping, with the majority linked to the Epping Gardens Aged Care outbreak. Wollert has just four active cases. Overall, Whittlesea has recorded 1200 cases. On Sunday, Premier Daniel Andrews announced that more than 100 live music venues across the state would share in grants totalling $9 million under the Victorian Live Music Venues program.

“No doubt it will look a little different for Victorians this year, with many of us working or studying from home and spending less time with friends or family. “But for many of us, this has meant more time in the kitchen, baking up a storm to beat the isolation blues.” Ms Walker said while the COVID-19 restrictions had put a pause to a normal life, it hadn’t put a stop to animal cruelty. “We are working harder than ever to keep animals well cared for during these restrictions,” she said. “Our revenue has been significantly

impacted throughout the pandemic so we rely on generous community support through fundraisers like Cupcake Day to ensure we can continue to care for vulnerable animals and investigate cases of cruelty.” Participants are encouraged to host virtual bake-offs, baking challenges or take part in an online food-themed quiz. To register for Cupcake Day, visit rspcacupcakeday.com.au Information to host a virtual event will be provided upon registration.

A water quality management plan will be developed to address concerns about the conditions at Jack Roper Lake. Hume councillor Naim Kurt earlier this year raised concerns about the inability of community groups to use the Broadmeadows lake because of pollution concerns. A letter from Water Minister Lisa Neville to the council, stated Melbourne Water representatives have started to discuss the next steps in a sanitary and water quality survey of the lake. The letter stated that Melbourne Water would lead the development of a detailed project plan for a recreational sustainability assessment, while assessing the possible recreation uses of the lake. Cr Kurt said it was a fantastic outcome for the council. “We know pollution and water quality has been an ongoing issue along Merlynston Creek and Jack Roper Lake since the SKM fire [in 2017],” he said. “We’ve had to drag Melbourne Water to the table to address the issue and thankfully with the minister’s support we have been able to secure a project plan to assess water quality and hopefully develop some actions to address pollution as well. “I know it will be a welcome outcome for many residents who want to use the lake for recreational purposes, including the great people of Sailability North who use the lake to teach vulnerable cohorts how to sail and have been unable to do so for almost two years now.” Tara Murray

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ANY SYMPTOMS GET TESTED

It’s important to get tested for coronavirus at the first sign of any symptom and stay home until you get your result. Getting tested means you keep yourself, your friends, family, workplace and your community safe. It’s not over yet.

Find out where to get tested visit vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

4 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

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New CEO for Whittlesea By Tara Murray

Craig Lloyd. (Supplied)

The former chief executive of Murrindindi council has been appointed to Whittlesea council’s top job. Craig Lloyd will start as Whittlesea’s new chief executive on October 12, having spent the past two years at Murrindindi council. He has an extensive background in leadership and management roles and is also on the board of the Bendigo Cemeteries Trust (Remembrance Parks Central Victoria) and Regional Development Australia (Hume Region). He holds a masters of business administration,

a postgraduate certificate in community development (emergency management) and a masters of project management. He has also completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors course and undertaken the Local Government Professionals Executive Leadership program. Whittlesea council panel of administrators chair Lydia Wilson said Mr Lloyd’s community-focused character, depth of local government experience and skills in a multiplicity of technical areas made him the standout candidate. “It is Craig’s deep commitment to grass roots community engagement and his shared

vision that the panel of administrators have for this council to be an exemplar in local government and deliver at a very high level for our community that we were most drawn to,” Ms Wilson said. Mr Lloyd replaces acting chief executive Joe Carbone, who was appointed in March, after acting chief executive Kelvin Spiller departed. Mr Carbone didn’t apply for the permanent role and will return to his consulting business and directorship positions. “I would personally like to thank Joe for his stable guidance during what was a significant period of change at the start of his tenure in March 2020,” Ms Wilson said.

Police lend a hand Encompass Care in Bundoora has had some special helpers volunteer their time as the group tries to meet a growing demand for help. Every Tuesday, Mernda police have been helping unload trucks of supplies for people in need. Encompass Care’s chief operations officer Gianna Donato said the group had been busier than ever. “It’s amazing they take the time out to help and I want to give a big shout out to them,” Ms Donato said. She said the group was preparing about 90 food parcels a week for residents in need in Whittlesea and Darebin, while also providing packages to students at La Trobe University. Mernda Acting Senior Sergeant Mark Crevatin said he had been given some great feedback from his members.

“We look at this as another way of serving the community by ensuring those people who have been identified as ‘in need’ do not go without,” he said. “Many in the community would view Victoria Police solely as law enforcement, however, the partnership with Encompass Care, I hope, would portray Victoria Police as more than that.” Whittlesea council also helped Encompass Care to call more than 1000 people on its database for welfare checks. Encompass Care provides a number of other services including a 24-hour emergency assistance hotline. “We are here for anyone who is vulnerable and struggling and even just needs a listening ear,” Ms Donato said. Tara Murray

First Constable Matthew Bengtsson unloading some food. Right: Acting Senior Sergeant Mark Crevatin, Constable Mary Bateman and First Constable Matthew Bengtsson unpack food. (Supplied)

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5 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

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Man shot The Armed Crime Squad is continuing to investigate a shooting in Broadmeadows on Saturday. A man in his 20s was admitted to hospital with serious injuries after police and paramedics were called to Camp Road at 1.55pm on Saturday after reports that a man had been shot in the leg.

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New kinder

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A new modular kindergarten will be built at Holy Child School in Dallas. The state government allocated $1.35 million to the project which will create kindergarten places for 66 three-year-olds and 33 four-year-olds. It’s expected the project, which is a partnership between the school and state government, will be completed in 2021.

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Artist impressions of the new Merrifield North Multipurpose Centre. (Pictures: Supplied)

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A place for community Work has started on the construction of the largest community centre in Hume – the Merrifield North Multipurpose Centre. The $12.9 million development will accommodate a variety of services, programs and activities, including maternal and child health services, preschool, playgroups, immunisation services, arts and cultural programs, social support programs and activities for older adults. Hume mayor Carly Moore said the Merrifield North Multipurpose Centre would provide a vibrant focal point for the development of a well-connected, growing community. “Merrifield North Multipurpose Centre will provide a space for the Mickleham community to be inspired, engaged and encouraged to

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grow, connect and share their lives with one another at all stages of their lives,” Cr Moore said. “Our community centres have a dual purpose in supporting both the community’s early years and family service needs, as well as supporting the communities social recreational and learning needs.” The centre will also be home to a kindergarten after the council received a $1.5 million state government grant. The kindergarten is expected to open early next year, with places for 132 children. The new Merrifield North Multipurpose Centre is expected to be complete by mid-2021.

Construction work to build 460 prison cells will take place in Campbellfield. About 20 local manufacturing jobs will be created as part of a $41 million state government contract for the construction of prefabricated steel modular cells for five Victorian prison sites. Work on plumbing, electrical, furniture and fixtures will be undertaken in Fleetwood Building Solutions in Campbellfield before the cells are moved to correction facilities around the state. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Children having surgery at Northern Hospital are driving themselves into the operating theatre thanks to the Whittlesea Salvation Army. The Salvos, in collaboration with the Northern Health Foundation, donated a Range Rover Kiddy car to the hospital, enabling young patients to swap a hospital trolley for a set of wheels on their way to theatre. The idea of having kids drive KALEL TAKES THE CAR FOR A SPIN themselves to surgery came from Northern Hospital anaesthetist Jenny Coulson. “We wanted to avoid kids getting stressed when they come into theatre,” By Laura Michell Dr Coulson said. “We thought the use ofthe northern and western suburbs Parts of have been labelled as hot spots for “low level” the car would make the kids happier.” community transmission of COVID-19 by Victoria’s chief health officer. According to Northern Hospital, the Professor Brett Sutton said recent cases (Supplied)

trees and green cover in the City of Whittlesea.

Children having surgery at Northern Hospital are driving themselves into the operating theatre thanks to the Whittlesea Salvation Army. The Salvos, in collaboration with the Northern Health Foundation, donated a Range Rover Kiddy car to the hospital, enabling young patients to swap a hospital trolley for a set of wheels on their way to theatre. The idea of having kids drive themselves to surgery came from Northern Hospital anaesthetist Jenny Coulson. “We wanted to avoid kids getting stressed when they come into theatre,” Dr Coulson said. “We thought the use of the car would make the kids happier.” According to Northern Hospital, the use of children’s cars has been a success in many hospitals across Asia. Northern Health Foundation director Yvonne Amos said it was a joy to collaborate with the Whittlesea Salvation Army and Dr Coulson to bring the toy car to the hospital. “To have our youngest patients distracted by being able to drive themselves to theatre instantly takes the stress out of the experience,” she said. Laura Michell

suggested the area from Keilor Downs to Fawkner and Craigieburn was a current hot spot for community transmission, adding that most of Victoria’s recent virus cases were recorded in the northern and western suburbs.

“This indicates there is ongoing community transmission in these areas, although it appears to be at low levels,” he said. Professor Sutton said people living in the area should stay home if they are unwell and get tested if they develop coronavirus symptoms. Eight pop-up drive-through testing sites are currently operating across Melbourne, including at Keilor Community Hub, and Highpoint, Pacific Werribee and Pacific Epping shopping centres. According to the Department of Health and

Human Services, there were three active cases of COVID-19 in Hume as of Monday. The municipality has recorded 72 cases since the pandemic began. Neighbouring Whittlesea has recorded no active cases since June 7. In Brimbank, one case remains active. There have been a total of 73 cases in the municipality. There were no active cases in Melton, Maribyrnong or Hobsons Bay as of Monday, according to the state government. The warning follows the news that four school students from the northern and western

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suburbs tested positive to the virus. Keilor Downs Secondary College was closed for deep cleaning on May 29 after a student returned a positive test. A student from St Albans Secondary College also tested positive for the virus after taking part in a class with the infected Keilor Downs student. A grade two pupil at Holy Eucharist Primary School in St Albans South also tested positive. Craigieburn’s Newbury Primary School was closed for cleaning on June 5 after a prep pupil tested positive.

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Prioritise road upgrade: Council By Tara Murray Hume council has refused to support plans to fast track a new master plan which will add 8000 houses to Craigieburn west until the state government commits to duplicating Mickleham Road. The Victorian Planning Authority is aiming to fast track 19 planning and infrastructure projects, including the Craigieburn West Precinct Structure Plan (PSP), as part of the government’s response to the COVID-19 crisis. Councillors are concerned that fast-tracking the project would exacerbate traffic problems

in the area. They are calling for Mickleham Road to be duplicated before or in tandem with the development of the PSP. In 2019, an average of 29,000 cars per day used Mickleham Road between Somerton and Donnybrook roads, up 54 per cent from 2013. According to a council infrastructure plan, an arterial road should be duplicated once it is used by 20,000 cars daily. Planning Minister Richard Wynne said last year that the duplication should start within five years. Cr Joseph Haweil said the northern growth corridor had seen some of the largest residential

development in Australia but the roads hadn’t been upgraded to handle it. “We’re not opposed to the fulfilment or the fast track of the PSP … that being said it does not come without our own expectations and priorities. Our support does not come for free,” he said. “Our primary concern is the duplication of Mickleham Road between Somerton and Donnybrook roads.” In submissions to the council, the Greenvale Residents Association’s Tamara Nolan and Charlie Grech said the duplication of Mickelham Road prior to the development of

the Craigieburn West PSP was essential. They said a five-year wait for the duplication to start was too long. “The GRA has been concerned for a number of years [about] the rapid increase in residential development in our area without the appropriate infrastructure in place to support that growth,” Ms Nolan said. “The GRA strongly suggest the state government support the existing community first and bring forward the much-needed duplication of Mickleham and Somerton roads … to be constructed prior to the development of the Craigieburn West PSP.”

Bringing kinder home With childcare and kindergartens closed to most families, childhood has been looking very different under the COVID-19 crisis. But a group of Victoria University students is doing its best to deliver isolated children an enriching experience from home. VU student teachers have been trialling online ‘kindergarten-at-home’ sessions, tailoring the experience to the interests of the child involved. Early education lecturer Sarah Jobson said VU has been one of the only universities in Australia offering such one-on-one remote placements for its pre-service teaching students, giving them practical experiences despite the COVID closure of kindergartens and childcare centres. The first group of students started their remote placements a few weeks ago, mainly with VU staff families. Ms Jobson said the program is now searching for hundreds of

other host families for more VU students preparing to become early childhood teachers. After collaborating with each child’s parents and VU mentors, the students design activities customised to the child’s interests and strengths. Ms Jobson said families whose first language is not English have been using the sessions to focus on English communication. Virtual sessions generally run a few times each week, but their duration and frequency are determined by each family. Second-year student Phoebe Wong has been conducting regular sessions with Sadie, the five-year-old daughter of a VU staff member. She said the program offers a valuable opportunity to experience a new form of interaction with young children and their families. For further information email Sarah Jobson at ecefamilies@vu.edu.au. Benjamin Millar

Sadie, 5, has been taking part in VU’s kindergarten-at-home program. (Supplied)

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Cash boost for growing suburb By Tara Murray A respite facility, park upgrades and a new playground are among nine projects across Whittlesea and Hume to receive funding from the state government’s Growing Suburbs Fund. The government will spend $25 million on 28 projects across the state as part of the fund which supports investment in critical infrastructure in Melbourne’s diverse and fast-growing interface councils. Five projects totalling $2.4 million have been funded in Whittlesea.

They are a new social support respite facility in Mernda for older residents, an outdoor learning area at Mill Park Library, safety and streetscape improvements at the Rochdale Square shopping precinct in Lalor, a program to improve energy efficiency in the City of Whittlesea, and a new playground and landscaping at Carrington Boulevard Children’s Centre in Thomastown. Whittlesea council panel of administrators chair Lydia Wilson welcomed the funding boost. “As one of the fastest-growing municipalities

in Victoria with a booming population, the funding is a welcome addition to our plans to ensure residents can access services and facilities that will make a real difference in their day-to-day lives,” Ms Wilson said. “These council projects will support local jobs and provide opportunities for residents to learn and engage with their community.” The social support facility, which will be built at Mernda Villages Community Activity Centre, will provide much-needed day respite for older residents, many who have had to travel to access facilities in other parts of Whittlesea.

In Hume, four projects have been funded. They are the DS Aitken Reserve skate park upgrade, Melba Avenue Streetscape upgrade, and upgrades to Coopers Hill Drive Reserve and Kirwan Park. Hume council corporate services director Daryl Whitfort welcomed the funding. “This is fantastic news for all residents, particularly for the growing number of young families in our city’s growing suburbs,” he said. “These projects will also create local jobs at a time when unemployment numbers in Victoria are high.”

Milestone for kitchen Infinity Church Community Meals Kitchen couldn’t have a party to celebrate 10 years of helping the community, but it’s hoping to have one down the track. Like many other businesses and volunteer services, the South Morang community kitchen has been affected by the coronavirus lockdown and had to transition into delivering meals. The kitchen, which hosts a weekly Tuesday meal, was the brainchild of Alex Fabiani, who continues to run it all these years later. Fabiani, a former drug addict, said he felt that this was what he was meant to do. He said the weekly catch-ups were more than just supplying meals. “It’s been a long time and I wouldn’t have thought we’d still be doing it 10 years later. “It’s not only about the food, but the social interaction is big. It becomes a family over the years.

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“It gives something for people to look forward to. I’m getting phone calls every week asking when we’re opening back up.” Fabiani said the kitchen had made more than 50,000 meals over the time. The group has been making food hampers during lockdown to help those in need and is delivering to 70 families a week. Infinity Church Pastor Craig Anderson said it had been a wonderful 10 years for the community kitchen. He said once restrictions were lifted, the group would try and get the kitchen back to normal. “We’ve helped so many different kinds of people. Different backgrounds, elderly, disabled, people with mental health concerns, refugees and carers. It’s not just about healthy meals. Sometimes they spent two to three hours there.” Tara Murray

The team at Infinity Community Meals Kitchen. (Supplied)

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8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

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Councillors look to election By Tara Murray Eight current Hume councillors have confirmed they will be standing for re-election at the October local government elections. All four Aitken ward councillors, including mayor Carly Moore, have indicated that they will be standing. Cr Moore said she had much more to offer. “Over the past four years I have had the great honour of serving our community as councillor, deputy mayor and mayor,” she said. “It has been an amazing experience. I am very proud of what I have been able to achieve so far, but now more than ever, our community needs strong leadership.” Cr Drew Jessop, who has been on council since 1997, will again seek election. “My desire is to assist the community in all that I do, especially during the pandemic, as council has a vital role in helping us come through this health and economic disaster, and planning for the future ahead. “I especially want to help reduce rates, provide quality services, and build vital infrastructure, plus assist businesses and the farming community in getting them back on their feet, as jobs will be critical in our recovery.” Cr Joseph Haweil said he would prioritise financial support to re-build local businesses, attract new jobs and businesses to Hume, and seek government investment in local stimulus projects if he was re-elected. “Over the last four years I have worked hard to secure enhanced road and community infrastructure, successfully secured millions of dollars in increased funding for indented parking in narrow streets, advocated for CCTV to tackle crime and destruction of community spaces, opposed council’s addiction to infringements revenue and been one of the

Hume’s current councillors. (Supplied)

strongest local government voices in Australia against … the pokies gambling industry.” Cr Jodi Jackson is also seeking a second term on council and highlighted her five priorities for the next four years. She wants to focus on waste and investing more money to reduce the problem of illegal dumping; undertake a comprehensive review of Hume’s park and open space strategy and increase spending in that area; overhaul the planning process to make it cheaper, quicker and clearer for residents and take a hard line

on new unit developments; duplicate several key roads including Aitken Boulevard, Craigieburn, Somerton and Mickleham roads; and make affordable and accessible community facilities. In the Meadow Valley ward, Cr Karen Sherry is the only councillor to confirm she is standing. She said she had taken up studying urban planning to help with residents concerns and have a more informed voice. “I want Hume City residents to be well housed, well-educated and engaged in

employment [where possible],” she said. “I want them to continue to enjoy our open space and recreational facilities but also to have what other parts of Melbourne take for granted such as a wider range of educational and job opportunities, and good transport facilities. “In this term of council I have been passionate about the issue of housing security particularly for vulnerable people … I am proud that in 2020-21, the council will develop an affordable housing strategy and investigate the need for youth crisis accommodation, and I want to be a leading contributor in these discussions.” Councillors Jana Taylor and Naim Kurt are still deciding whether to stand. Cr Geoff Porter said he will not seek re-election after 16 years on council. He is the only person to have served as Hume mayor three times. In Jacksons Creek, Cr Jack Medcraft said he wanted to give ratepayers a strong, independent, determined voice on council. “There are a number of things I want to see completed such as the new extension at Leo Dineen Reserve, improvements to the facilities at Westmeadows sports club, as well as a tiered car park and third road crossing in Sunbury which I have been advocating strongly for over the last few years.” Cr Leigh Johnson said advocating against no toxic soil at Bulla was one of his main focuses. “I want to be part of the next council team that leads our community through the COVID-19 recovery … to continue to improve community facilities, sporting facilities, community safety and services, particularly youth which is a big part of my work. “I want to support the exciting local arts and cultural precinct at Jackson’s Hill, a place that is dear to me.” Councillor Ann Potter didn’t respond.

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Out and about Families made the most of eased COVID-19 restrictions and sunny weather as playgrounds reopened last week. Star Weekly

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 215548

photographer Damjan Janevski visited Highlands Lake park in Craigieburn to capture some of the enjoyment.

AMELIE, 2

SAM, 2

HAZEL, 5

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10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

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Historic gum trees saved By Tara Murray The old Doreen Post Office building and two River Red Gum trees will survive the upgrades to the Bridge Inn Road intersection. There were concerns about the future of the building and the two trees, which are 500 and 400 years old respectively, with the intersection to be upgraded as part of the Yan Yean Road upgrades. The Environment Effects Statement for stage two of the upgrade includes a proposal to build the intersection to the northeast of its current

position in order to retain the two trees in line with community wishes. The design will also retain the old Doreen Post Office building and avoid impacting the two businesses on the southeast corner of the Bridge Inn, Yan Yean and Doctors Gully roads intersection. A new service lane for local businesses will be built as part of the works. The design follows community consultation dating back to 2018, with the most recent consultation taking place in May this year. A Facebook group called Save the Doreen Red

Gums, with nearly 1500 followers, celebrated the decision to save the two trees. The EES document, which is overseen by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), is on display for public comment until October 9. The statement examines the potential environmental, social, cultural and economic impacts of the project and identifies how they will be avoided, mitigated or managed. Yan Yean MP Danielle Green said this was a further opportunity for the community to have input into design for the project and

encouraged submissions to Planning Panels Victoria (PPV) on the important road upgrade. Stage two of the Yan Yean Road upgrade will add an additional lane in each direction between Kurrak, Yarrambat and Bridge Inn roads, Doreen to improve traffic flow. Authorities will need to acquire 21 parcels of land and 75 partial parcels of land to complete the upgrade. Webinars will be held to answer questions about the EES, with residents able to request to have a document sent to them. Details: roadprojects.vic.gov.au/yyr-ees.

Kitten season under way The RSPCA is expecting to need to find homes for thousands of bundles of joy as kitten season gets under way. Generally running from September through to the end of autumn, kitten season refers to the warmer months when there’s an increase in cats breeding. RSPCA Victoria head of operations Tegan McPherson says there are a number of ways the community can address the issues associated with kitten season. “It’s so important to desex your cats desexing your cat is an important part of responsible cat ownership and there are many possible benefits. “Not only does desexing reduce the number of unwanted cats and kittens that will need to go through animal welfare organisations to find a new home, desexing has many health benefits and can also reduce nuisance behaviours. “It’s also important to know there is no benefit in letting females have one litter before they are desexed.” Ms McPherson said if your cat isn’t desexed, it’s important to keep them contained. Kittens under 12 weeks old are the most vulnerable animal population at RSPCA Victoria. Cats and kittens are adopted at a much slower rate than dogs and less likely to be reclaimed, putting more pressure on animal welfare organisations such as the RSPCA.

BRUCE ELLEN

Country Press applauds code

Tara Murray

RSPCA is expecting an influx of kittens needing homes. (Supplied)

Hume City backs national second tier Hume City is among clubs interested in being part of a national second division [NSD] soccer competition. The Association of Australian Football Clubs held a meeting recently with representatives from 60 clubs, including Hume City, Green Gully, Melbourne Knights, Altona Magic and Caroline Springs George Cross, about forming the new competition. Of those clubs, 30 have formed the Championship Partner Group, which will finalise design, modelling and criteria to form the basis of consultation with stakeholder groups and submit to the FFA board. Hume City, Caroline Springs George Cross and Melbourne Knights are among the eight

Victorian clubs in the partnership group. Both George Cross and Melbourne Knights were part of the old National Soccer League, while Hume City has been one of the stand out teams in the national FFA Cup competition in recent years. It’s hoped the new competition will kick off in 2022, with promotion and relegation between the A-League, the new competition and the National Premier League among the goals. Hume City manager Nick Hegarty said his club wanted to reach the highest level it could. “Obviously there is a long way to go in everything,” he said. “As soon as something opens up and suits the club and has the potential to allow the club to develop and grow, I’m sure

we want to be part of it.” Hegarty said there were no longer the boundaries and restrictions to travelling like there once was. “We know we will have a lot of work to do in different areas, but we are in a good position already with our ground and facilities and the culture. “We want to not only push into the second division but push into the higher division [A-League] as soon as possible.” There are talks of a women’s national second division competition as well, which Hegarty said Hume City would aim to be part of.

An Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) plan to force tech giants Google and Facebook to compensate publishers for the use of news content has been applauded by Country Press Australia. Under the ACCC’s News Media Bargaining Code, which was developed at the request of the federal government, Google and Facebook will need to negotiate revenue-sharing deals with media companies. Facebook and Google have raised concerns about the proposed code, saying it will impact their services and could lead to Australians being charged to use previously free services. But Country Press Australia president Bruce Ellen said the tech giants’ claims were “disingenuous”. He said Facebook and Google were using content produced by news media businesses to drive increased audiences and engagement, build confidence in their platforms, and develop a commercial benefit. “The fact that this commercial benefit to the tech giants has been at the expense of advertising revenue that previously supported the provision of public interest journalism in news media businesses massively compounds the challenges … in sustaining independent and objective reporting, analysis and investigation,” Mr Ellen said. “This concern is particularly acute for regional, rural and small publishers... recent closures of regional newspapers and local broadcasting newsrooms highlight the challenges. “Country Press Australia applauds the federal government and ACCC for their determination to bring the global tech giants to the table to address a serious matter that should be of vital concern to all Australians.”

Tara Murray 11 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

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Food forges sense of community Reflecting the cultural mix of its residents, Baptcare Wattle Grove Community is notable for its focus on high-quality, culturally diverse food, according to in-house chef Raj, who’s passionate about the role of good food in the lives of aged care residents. “We prepare our meals fresh every day,” Raj says, “and I take real pride in what we offer to our residents. “We have a very diverse menu – it’s not traditional aged care food here.” “There’s a great mix of cultures here, which means I can be quite imaginative with the menu, and I try to find common ground in terms of cultural preferences. But I also make a point of celebrating certain cultures – for example, we might have a special Greek morning tea featuring national dishes. “One of the benefits of this approach is that it introduces some of our residents to new foods … which is something they really enjoy.” Raj notes that some residents prefer to eat dishes they are familiar with. “Although I like to bring in new dishes regularly, there is always another option available. “And we also offer standard alternatives for lunch and dinner, including a pasta dish – so there is plenty of choice. “The other important consideration with our menu is ensuring that all our meals are healthy and nutritious,” says Raj. “After I draft the menu, I send it to our dietitian to approve. And if a resident has specific dietary needs, we prepare a meal change.” The current COVID-19 restrictions have had some surprisingly positive outcomes for the community, reports Andrea Apostolopoulos, lifestyle co-ordinator. “Our lifestyle activities are continuing with

Chef Raj; Afternoon tea with friends; A resident keeping in touch. (Pictures: Supplied)

a focus on safer, smaller groups, which means our staff are now spending more one-on-one time with residents, helping them do the things they love,” Andrea says. “Not only that, friendships between the residents are becoming stronger, too. “One of our residents recently commented

that they think of the staff and fellow residents as their family, which was lovely.” Camila Dahan, client relationship partner, notes that with COVID-19, new safety processes and measures are in place. “Wattle Grove has strict protocols to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our residents,

visitors and staff. “In light of these processes, we continue to accept new admissions and still conduct tours.” Baptcare Wattle Grove Community, 51 Pinetree Crescent, Lalor. Inquiries: 13 BAPTCARE (13 22 78).

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WATERMELON FRUIT PIZZA Ingredients 1/2 round seedless watermelon 1 banana, peeled, sliced 1 kiwi fruit, peeled and sliced 5 strawberries, chopped 1/2 punnet blueberries Method 1. Cut a 2cm thick slice of watermelon and cut into 8 equal wedges. 2. Arrange wedges flat on a plate (like a sliced pizza). 3. Top with banana, kiwi, strawberries and blueberries. 4. Enjoy a slice! TIP: This works with any fruit so try it with apple or pear slices, pineapple, halved grapes or stonefruit. You can have fun getting creative with shapes too!

Make it

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Method 1. Put 7 cups water into a saucepan and bring to boil (keep one cup aside). 2. Add cornflour to bowl and mix in the leftover 1 cup water to make a smooth paste. 3. Add cornflour mixture gradually to the water boiling on the stove, stirring. 4. Add soap flakes and disinfectant (slowly) to the mixture, stirring. 5. Mix 1 teaspoon dye with 1 teaspoon cold water in a container (use different colours), mixing until powder dissolves. 6. Add 3 teaspoons hot water to dye mixtures, stirring. 7. Add some cornflour and water mixture to each dye container and stir until dye is evenly distributed. 8. Refrigerate mixtures and use when cool.

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Ingredients 12 tablespoons cornflour 8 cups water 1 cup soap flakes 1 teaspoon disinfectant Edicol dye (Non-toxic powdered colouring dye)

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Quick crossword 1

Fill the grid so every column, every row and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

9 11

16 17

18 19

22 25

28 29

WordFit

Each number represents a different letter of the alphabet. Write the given letters into all squares with matching numbers. Now work out which letters are represented by the other numbers. As you get the letters, write them into the main grid and the reference grid. Decoder uses all 26 letters of the alphabet.

Fit the words into the grid to create a finished crossword

1 6

18 21

16 24

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1 23

14 2

3 LETTERS ADD ALE ALL AND ASP EEL ERA ERR GIN ICY LAG MOA NAP ONE SHE SOT SPA STY SUE SUM TAB TEA YEN YES

20 7

14 4

1 21

16 8

14 10

ABCDE FGHIJKL MNOPQRSTUV WXYZ

10 11 12 13

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

Quick crossword solution

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I A

416

S D

4 LETTERS AURA DOTS EDDY ERRS FANG LEAF MENU OPEN OSLO PAPA PEST SILO STEP TAPS 5 LETTERS AGILE AGLOW ALGAE

How many words of three or more letters, including plurals, can you make from the five letters, using each letter only once? No foreign words or words beginning with a capital are allowed. There’s at least one five-letter word. Good 9 Very Good 13 Excellent 18

O K A P I

ALONE ANGLO BLADE CAUSE CYRIL DEEMS DELTA DISHY DROOP ENDUE FUSSY GAFFE GHOST INANE INCUR LITHE NERVE OKAPI OMENS

PARES PIKER PITON POPPA PSALM RAISE REIGN RISKY ROBES SAHIB SAINT SATYR SLEET SNAPS SPOTS STEER STUDS TOAST TONTO

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8 LETTERS ANTEROOM INTERCOM WARRANTY WAYFARER

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11 LETTERS DILAPIDATED OBSERVATORY

7 LETTERS CLIPPED ICERINK LAURELS PLACEBO PLAINLY PRESENT

Sudoku solutions

Decoder F

14 1

15 2

16 3

17 4

18 5

19 6

20 7

21 8

22 9

Across: 1. Parcel, 5. Dismal, 10. Impress, 11. Rummage, 12. Exodus, 15. Select, 16. Barrier, 17. Tier, 18. Pyre, 19. Circuit, 20. Fate, 22. Herb, 25. Surplus, 27. Bicker, 28. Source, 31. Evident, 32. Orderly, 33. Asleep, 34. Dynamo. Down: 2. Approve, 3. Cherub, 4. Lisp, 5. Dart, 6. Simmer, 7. Academy, 8. Direct, 9. Centre, 13. Saviour, 14. Precept, 15. Serious, 20. Fabled, 21. Tactics, 23. Eardrum, 24. Bye-bye, 25. Secede, 26. Sodden, 29. Stop, 30. Bold. B L A D E

A L O N E

S T U D S

I N A N E

D I L A P I D A T E D

A L G A E

P S A L M

R E I G N

E S E T L E P U S T H Y E R R E S T A S B L A S T U E M S

R A I S E I N C U R S T E E R I K E R S C Y R I L Y O N E O K A P C O M F A L S P I L O W A P O P P A P E R R E N E R V D D S A I O M E N S T O N T O S A T Y R

A N G L O S A H I B S P O T S P A S H E L I T T E R A L E V I A U R A N G S O T L A C E B O Y F A R E R F U S S Y Y E S E E D D Y N T E R A A G L O W P I T O N S N A P S

WordBuilder

Down 2. Give permission (7) 3. Angel portrayed as a child (6) 4. Speech defect (4) 5. Move swiftly (4) 6. Boil gently (6) 7. Educational institute (7) 8. Straight, honest (6) 9. Middle (6) 13. Rescuer (7) 14. Maxim (7) 15. Solemn (7) 20. Legendary (6) 21. Strategies (7) 23. Tympanic membrane (7) 24. Farewell (3-3) 25. Separate, break away (6) 26. Saturated (6) 29. Halt (4) 30. Daring (4)

Decoder

WordFit

Across 1. Package (6) 5. Dreary (6) 10. Stamp, imprint (7) 11. Search haphazardly (7) 12. Mass departure (6) 15. Choose (6) 16. Obstruction (7) 17. Layer (4) 18. Funeral mound (4) 19. Lap (7) 20. Destiny (4) 22. Food flavouring (4) 25. Excess (7) 27. Quibble (6) 28. Origin (6) 31. Obvious (7) 32. Neatly arranged (7) 33. Elapse (anag) (6) DECODER 34. PowerDECODER generator (6)

ads, aid, aide, aides, aids, ais, aside, dais, die, dies, dis, ide, idea, ideas, ides, ids, sad, said, sea, sei, side

EASY

MEDIUM

HARD

SOLUTION TO DECODER 16:

R T

12455324-LB38-20 12462719-LB39-20

14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

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Note: more than one solution may be possible.

R I F L E

What does the M stand for in the radio abbreviation FM? What was the name of Chris Hemsworth’s character on Home and Away? In which sport would you encounter a jerk? Which comic-strip hero inspired the invention of ankle tags for monitoring the movements of criminal offenders released early from prison? 5. Whose leaving Genesis led to Phil Collins becoming the main man for vocals? 6. What is the most common French surname? 7. Who made up the trio of buddies with Ritchie and Potsie in TV’s Happy Days? 8. Is hypocaust a violent tropical storm, a type of paint-stripper or a Roman heating system? 9. Lexus is the luxury car division of which car maker? 10. In tennis, which two countries won every Davis Cup from 1946-1973? 1. 2. 3. 4.

1. Modulation, 2. Kim Hyde, 3. Weightlifting, 4. Spiderman, 5. Peter Gabriel, 6. Martin, 7. Ralph, 8. Roman heating system, 9. Toyota, 10. Australia and United States.

$70

G H O S T

Insert the missing letters to make ten words — five reading across the grid and five reading down.

T Y R E S

E L E C T

5x5 solution E L F I N

Quiz

R I F L E

5x5

G H O S T

Quiz solution

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Mini-Merc lifts lid on super-hatch

The Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4Matic+ speeds its way to the head of the hatchback pack. (Pictures: Supplied)

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring A compact hatchback at a six-figure price – anybody could be forgiven for thinking this was an oxymoron. However, the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4Matic+ hatch goes a long way – very quickly – to dispel any doubts about its stratospheric sticker. For a start, this little beauty features the world’s most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine in a production model in Australia. Add to this a new AMG eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and A 45 S 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system. And the result is a zero-to-100 km/h sprint of 3.9 seconds. The car also boasts a level of comfort, convenience and safety found in luxury models of equally elevated price – $93,600, plus on-road costs. Added investments can include a Driver’s Package with top speed upped to 270 km/h, Track Pace data logging, Night Pack with design bits in black and 19-inch by 8.5-inch wide AMG cross-spoke alloy wheels in matt black with shiny flange.

those bored with the company. A useful 370-litre boot can be expanded to 1210 litres with the 40:20:40 seat backs folded.

Infotainment Twin 10.25-inch high-resolution displays sweep across the dashboard putting important information for the driver, and general info for driver and front seat passenger within easy viewing. All occupants are in a position to take full advantage of an advanced audio system with Burmester surround-sound, while the test car driver was able to take advantage of an optional ($790) colour head-up windscreen display. This system can ‘learn’ the driver’s habits and routines, and offer helpful suggestions and shortcuts. For example, if he or she phones home at a certain time every day, MBUX will point it out as the time approaches. Members of my family cheekily named the female ‘voice’ Flo (for Florence and the Machine, get it?) as she eagerly did their bidding.

Engines / transmissions Styling Building on the latest AMG A-Class hatchback, performance credentials are presented up front with a specific wider, lower radiator grille and a dozen vertical louvres. Wider front wings and flared wheel arches make room for a wider axle. In company with the car’s performance pedestal, wider side skirts give the impression of the vehicle’s hugging the road, while from the rear, this is emphasised once more by double twin 90 mm diameter tailpipes with internal fluting and AMG lettering. Aerodynamics are boosted by a diffuser with two vertical fins. Red brake calipers boast the AMG stamp in black, which is repeated unashamedly throughout the vehicle, inside and out.

Interior Black is the main colour theme throughout, the leather sports seats cashing in with red inserts. Coloured strips of lighting announce a laidback ambience, especially at night, while the sports steering wheel is swathed in a soft chubby grip that comes, and stays, easily to hand. The swoopy roof limits rear-seat head room – a panoramic sunroof squeezed test car space even further – and occupants can miss out on leg room if front seat occupants are above average height. The good news is a drop-down arm rest incorporates twin cup holders and there’s a reading light above each window for

In an AMG tradition, a single person is given the job of hand-assembling each 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which pumps out an incredible 310 kW of power, which at 155 kW per litre, puts it ahead of many super-sports car motors. It’s 30 kW and 25 Nm better than the unit it replaces. That extra power, and peak torque of 500 Nm are put to the road in combination with a new AMG Speedshift DCT-8G dual-clutch eight-speed transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic all-wheel drive. The car is capable of reaching 100 km/h from rest in an eye-watering 3.9 seconds.

Safety Safety is packaged as only Mercedes-Benz premium models can be, with its driving assist package plus, active distance assist, including cross-traffic alert, active lane change assist and a parking package featuring 360-degree camera multibeam LED headlights with adaptive high beam assist plus and route-based speed adaptation.

Driving Engineers were involved from early on in the initial design to plan for the super-power engine status. With a threat of torsional twisting, a strengthened chassis with a lower ‘shearing plate’ beneath the engine was worked into the car’s construction.

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ hatch $93,600 SPECIFICATIONS Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 2-litre 4cyl turbocharged petrol, 8sp automatic, AWD, 5dr hatchback

Note: This price does not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Mercedes-Benz dealer for drive-away prices.

AMG Dynamic Select controller gets to work in choosing one of five drive modes – Comfort, Sport, Sport +, Individual and Race. Then there’s AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel drive, that shares power between the two rear wheels with torque control, resulting in an added ‘Drift’ mode for racetrack playtime. Scrolling through the Dynamic Select system, with Comfort well suited to stop / start going. Sport and Sport + had things bubbling with a pleasing combination of peppy performance and firm and responsive ride

and steering, while Race with its bone-jarring stiffness, was better left for a later day and track with an ultra-smooth surface. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine is a paragon of versatility, with usable power and torque on tap throughout the rev range. Maximum torque is on tap between 5000 and 5250 revs, matching similar naturally aspirated motors, while maximum engine speed of 7200 rpm is in line with the car’s sporty character. Fuel consumption presents a pleasantly frugal set of figures. On a 30-minute jaunt on the motorway in ‘Comfort’ mode, the AMG recorded fuel consumption of 7.1 litres per 100 kilometres. In the city, this ran out to more than 10 litres per 100 kilometres. When flogged along the motor made a meal of the figures, with 16 to 20 litres per 100 kilometres. Controls are far from intuitive with an ultra-busy array of switches, buttons, knobs, touch screen and pad to access many levels of the car’s computer. This is where the MBUX comes to the rescue with voice activation at the command of ‘Hey, Mercedes’, enabling occupants to control dozens of common functions.

Summing up As well as enjoying an unparalleled hatchback experience, the enthusiastic driver can delve into a deep well of the latest automotive technology of the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4Matic+. However, best the car can come up with should be left strictly to the track and there is a high purchase price to pay for the privilege. 17 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

SPORT Wenke calls time on Knights career

Justin Wenke. (Damian Visentini)

After nearly 20 years, Justin Wenke’s time in the football pathway talent programs has come to an end. The coach of the Northern Knights NAB League boys side for the past four years, Wenke has decided not to reapply for the role, which has changed under a restructure. From next year, the head coaching role will be full-time and coach both the boys and girls teams. Wenke said it was one of the hardest decisions that he’s had to make. “I’m professionally employed full-time and I’d been coaching part-time,” he said. “I’ve had nine years with my employer. I had to make the decision over the last two weeks to reapply [with the Knights] or not. “It was a heart-wrenching decision to leave the place that I love. It’s one of the harder decisions that I’ve had to make. “Looking at the current situation, I chose to stay in my job.”

Wenke started in the pathway system as a talent manager at the Oakleigh Chargers, before coaching the under-15, under-16 and under-18 sides at the club. In 2012, in his first year as coach of the under-18s, the Chargers won the grand final with a golden point after scores were level. After 15 years at the Chargers, Wenke had a couple of years out of the game, before joining the Knights. “It was a great opportunity with my experience of development,” he said. “I’ve got a passion for junior development and what it stands for. The work done by Rhy Gieschen the region manager to get this program really developed is huge. “The alignment with Parade College for the training facilities, I’ve been proud to create a club at an elite level in the north which makes better players and better people. “We’ve lifted the standard of training.” While the premiership remains a standout

Day lands Stars contract By Tara Murray Plenty Valley star Sophie Day’s hard work has paid off, securing a state and WBBL contract for this summer. The top order batter and spinner was named in the Victorian squad in June. Earlier this month she was named in the Melbourne Stars squad for the upcoming WBBL season. Day said it was exciting to have earned both contracts. Being part of the Victorian set up has allowed Day to continue training during the COVID-19 pandemic and has given her an insight into a new world. “Cricket Victoria has worked really hard, alongside the government, to get us an exemption so we are able to keep on training,” she said. “I was a nervous wreck at the start as I’ve only ever watched these girls on TV and I’m coming in the same dressing room as them, which is a pretty cool experience. “I’ve been so lucky being in Victoria. They’ve got players who have played international cricket. “I’ve been able to grow as a player and see where I want to be in the future and I kind of look up to them.” Day said the likes of Meg Lanning, Ellyse Perry, Elyse Villani and Sophie Molineux had really shown her the way. There was one familiar face among the group, with her Plenty Valley teammate Tayla Vlaeminck also part of the squad. “She has been really supportive and she sent me a few messages before I came in on my first day and has shown me the ropes,” Day said. “It’s been great to have her around. She’s a very determined person and one of the most hard-working players there.” Having secured a state contract, Day said she was still shocked when she got the offer of a Melbourne Stars contract. The competition, which starts October 25, will be played entirely in a hub in Sydney due to coronavirus. It’s a long way from Warrandyte where Day started playing cricket with her dad in a father-sons [daughters] team. “It’s pretty unreal for me to get this opportunity to be amongst a group of girls with such high playing standards and a really high competition. “I think for me I’ve just got to come in and give it everything and make sure that I take in the experience and learn. “The Stars are definitely a side that has a really great mix of experienced players and up-and-coming players. 18 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

Sophie Day. (Shawn Smits) 200316_13

“Everything is new for me, but this experience is new for everybody. I think it’s excitement among everybody and a bit of nerves to see what comes of it.” While Day will be busy with her cricket commitments, she’s hoping to get the chance to turn out for Plenty Valley in the Victorian Premier Cricket competition. She’s been part of a core group of players that has seen the side make finals the past two seasons. “I have loved playing at Plenty Valley and it’s

a great group of girls and close to home for me. “We started a few years ago, working hard, and we’ve been able to work as a group and we’re starting to see the rewards now, it’s really exciting.” While many cricketers would dream of playing for Australia, Day isn’t looking too far ahead. “I’m just trying to get a game now for Victoria and the Stars … take one step at a time and so far everything has fallen into place.”

highlight for Wenke, he said it was watching the players that he has coached make it at the highest level that brings him the biggest joy. He has coached 60 current AFL-listed players. “I’ve coached Luke Shuey and I had a lot to do with Jordan De Goey. I was with him through 15s and all the way up and he’s a star of the game. “Nick Coffield has done really well this year and Jack Petruccelle is playing with the Eagles. “Andrew Gaff and Darcy Moore are a couple of others. Jack Macrae, who kicked the winning point in the TAC Cup grand final, plays at the Bulldogs. “I turn on the footy and see the kids I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to coach and that’s the reward for me.” Wenke said he hoped to be involved in the football landscape in some form. Tara Murray

Atkins new Laurimar coach New Laurimar coach Jimmy Atkins is excited by the youth and future of the Northern Football League division 3 club. Atkins, who previously coached Whittlesea and has been assistant coach at Montmorency the past couple of years, was named as the Power’s new coach, replacing Justin Sherman. Sherman had guided the Power the past three seasons, including the 2020 season which was cancelled due to COVID-19. Atkins said returning to a senior coaching role at some point was always in the front of his mind. “I live in Laurimar and the opportunity to coach my home team is nice and it’s good for the family,” he said. “I’ve had a relationship with Justin, having coached him at Whittlesea, and I’ve been impressed with what they’ve been doing and the kids coming through. “I spoke to him and to a few other people and heard a lot of good things and we now have to take that next step.” Atkins said the first focus was getting the boys back on the track after COVID-19. He said he had spoken to most of the playing group and no one indicated that they aren’t returning. “That’s credit to the club,” he said. “I’m confident in signing most of the list. My priority is the current playing group and looking at the juniors coming through the ranks.” Atkins said it was exciting to see some of the players from the club’s first teams in 2011, two under-9 teams, starting to come through into the senior ranks. “They’ve been there the whole time and they’re keen as mustard to play seniors.” Having made finals for the first time the past two years, without breaking through for a win, Atkins said that was their first aim next season. In a statement on its Facebook page, the club said it was excited to announce Atkins as coach. “Jimmy shares the clubs’ philosophy and vision… He has a strong club spirit and great personalityl.” The club has reappointed Scott Toull as its women’s coach for next season. Tara Murray

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SPORT

Bannan puts it on the line Northern Knights forward Alyssa Bannan this year turned her attention to working on areas off the field that could help improve her draft chances. Bannan played just three games in the NAB League Girls competition before it was cancelled due to COVID-19, ending her underage football slightly earlier than anticipated. The 18-year-old said it had been a crazy year. “It’s definitely kind of annoying not being able to play and continue to do the sport that I love,” she said. “[But] It’s kind of been good to focus on the aspects that I wouldn’t normally be working on. I’ve done a lot of strength and conditioning by myself to get my body as strong as possible, hopefully for the AFLW season, which has been really good. “I know a lot of the team work you do is skills, and I guess strategy-based. It’s been good to focus on myself a bit more this year.” For Bannan, who started footy as a hobby before falling in love with it, this year was about putting everything out on the field. She had been part of the Knights premiership side last season and represented Vic Metro at the national championships, and entered the season one of the key forwards to watch. “Going into this year the focus was on putting everything out there as it was my last year [at the Knights],” she said. “I had to give everything I had and I was pretty proud of how I went. “I know after each game I came off feeling really proud of myself and it was about putting everything on the field and I definitely think I did. I was happy.” Bannan, who said she models her game on Tayla Harris, was excited to see how the Knights would go this season before it was cancelled.

She said one of the biggest things she learned in her three years at the club was being more determined and pushing through the challenges. Bannan has been invited to the AFLW state combine, but at this stage she’s unsure whether she will get to test due to COVID-19. She’s one of five Knights players to be selected for the combine. Bannan said knowing a few clubs were interested in her made the whole draft process a bit easier. “It is a bit nerve wracking, but I’m grateful for the invitation. Even if it doesn’t go ahead it’s nice to know that clubs have some interest in me and how well I can do. “At the start of this year I was a bit unsure how I would go, now it’s kind of making me feel a bit better about myself. “I’ve been able to catch up with a few clubs and get to know them a bit which has been really, really nice.” Bannan said she had been in touch with other players in a similar situation. “I think it is really good to have some friends in a similar position, because you can kind of have the same understanding,” she said. “You know how they’re feeling and they know how you’re feeling and be able to talk to other people about how they go about it and change it.” She’s also spoken to former Knights players who were drafted last year to give her an idea of what to expect. Bannan has selected to stay in Melbourne if she’s drafted, meaning only Melbourne-based sides can select her in the draft. The draft will be held online on October 6. Alyssa Bannan celebrates a goal in last year’s grand final. (Shawn Smits)

Fitzgerald stays focused

Northern Knights Jessica Fitzgerald. (Shawn Smits) 204987_13

Northern Knights co-captain Jess Fitzgerald continued to prepare as if she was playing football each week throughout the COVID-19 restrictions. With the NAB League Girls season cancelled after three rounds, Fitzgerald’s top age year at the Knights came to an end prematurely. But Fitzgerald, best afield in last year’s NAB League grand final win, focused on continuing to work hard, with her eyes on a spot on an AFLW list later this year. “It has been challenging and I missed it heaps,” she said of not playing football. “I found a fair few hobbies, which has been good. “I like structure, so I’ve kind of worked my weeks as if I was still playing. I’m doing a few running sessions a week, a few strength sessions as I’ve got a few weights from my school. “I’ve just been using some of that and going for kicks with dad and my coach from Knights and the talent manager as well.” The midfielder was happy with the three games she got in, with the side going through undefeated. Having been part of the Knights for the past three years, Fitzgerald said it was sad to see her time at the club come to an end the way it did. She said it had been special to be co-captain alongside Ellie McKenzie. “It felt pretty good in those first three games, the team looked like it was off to a good start, so it was a bit disappointing it got cancelled,” she said. “I wasn’t allowing the draft year to get to me. I was just trying to enjoy it, as I knew I wouldn’t be playing for the Knights next year. “I was shattered when I found out [the season was cancelled] and I did get a little bit emotional, which I wasn’t expecting. “I just had a look back at my time there and it has been absolutely amazing and I’m just grateful for the experience.” Fitzgerald said the friendships forged would be what she treasured most from her time at the

Knights. She said the club had set the bar with a very strong culture, something she will compare other clubs too. “The coaches and the girls are just amazing, it’s like a family down there.” Fitzgerald, who was part of the successful Vic Metro side last year at the national championships, has been selected for the state combine but it’s still uncertain whether the Victorian girls will get the chance to test due to COVID-19 restrictions. Fitzgerald said she was preparing as if they are going to test. Throughout the season she has been in contact with fellow Knights and players from other clubs in the same situation and they have shared tips and support. In the lead-up to the AFLW draft on October 6, Fitzgerald has started talking to AFLW clubs that are potentially interested in drafting her. Having focused on basketball growing up, Fitzgerald said the dream and goal was now to play AFLW. “It doesn’t feel real to be honest,” she said. “I’m not nervous at the moment, I’m just excited and I want it to be here already. “I’ve had a few interviews which have been good, it’s been an interesting experience. “They sort of just asked you about your strengths and weaknesses and what sets you apart from others and what you bring to the club potentially, and just a little about yourself so they get to know your character.” With five Knights players drafted last year, Fitzgerald said she was touching base with a few of them, including number one draft pick Gabby Newton, on what to expect during the next few weeks. Fitzgerald has selected to stay in Melbourne, which means only Melbourne-based teams can select her. The AFLW draft will be held online. Tara Murray 19 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 22 September, 2020

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