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Firefighters step up Whittlesea CFA duo Brandon and Stephanie Smith are using whatever steps they can find to complete the One Million Steps For Mental Health challenge. Being held instead of the annual Melbourne Firefighter Stair Climb due to COVID-19, the challenge involves firefighters climbing stairs in their local community for a month until October 10. Each firefighter will climb a minimum of 3046 steps over the month, which reflects the number of people who lose their lives to suicide each year. Husband and wife Brandon and Stephanie have taken part in the stair climb the past few years. Brandon said lockdown restrictions had made getting the steps in a challenge. “It’s been hard to try and find steps around Whittlesea at the moment,” he said. “We’ve been using playgrounds which have stone steps to get them in.” The Smiths are hoping to raise $1000 each. Money raised this year will be donated to the Lifeline, the Black Dog Institute and the 000 Foundation. To donate, visit: www.firefighterclimb. org.au/ STEPHANIE AND BRANDON SMITH

Tara Murray

Dining ban slammed By Tara Murray One of Hume’s premier dining facilities is calling on the state government to reopen the Victorian hospitality industry sooner. Marnong Estate, in Mickleham, has been open for just 13 weeks this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was forced to close the restaurant and all function spaces, resulting in a loss of 92 per cent in general revenue. The café is open, offering grab and go and home delivery service, the cellar door has been converted into a farm shop and the estate adapted the business online with an

e-commerce shop. But marketing and sales manager Paul Boyko said a lack of information around being able to reopen the restaurant and function rooms had been frustrating. “None of us ever thought there was going to be a second shutdown and so we reopened and brought in millions of dollars of food and beverage,” he said. “For Marnong Estate, being in the City of Hume, we were shut down again after one week … we traded for a total of four days in June. “This was a bitter pill to swallow after heavily investing in our reopening schedule and COVID-19 plan.”

Restaurants can start serving patrons outdoors under step three of the state government’s reopening roadmap, which could be introduced as early as October 19 if metropolitan Melbourne reaches an average of five daily cases over the previous 14 days. Mr Boyko said Marnong Estate felt the idea of outdoor dining was unrealistic and inconceivable. “We’ve got one of the greatest food cities in the world, and right now we’re on the brink of losing that,” he said. “There is no doubt the Victorian hospitality industry is already well equipped to commence reopening and poised to do so.

“We call on the Premier to give our people more hope … we want to know when we can all go back to work, because the hospitality industry can’t just switch the lights on at 24 hours’ notice. All of us will need time to plan.” Despite concerns about the outdoor dining policy, Marnong Estate will expand its alfresco dining options which are normally seasonal. “This isn’t ideal for Marnong Estate because our indoor dining room is already recognised as such an integrated part of the estate.” Mr Boyko said the flow-on effect from not being able to serve more people in the restaurant and function rooms would be felt by suppliers.

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2 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

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NEWS

Active virus cases drop below 10 Active COVID-19 cases in Hume and Whittlesea have dropped below 10, as the statewide case count continues to fall. Hume – a hotspot for most of the virus’ second wave – had just nine active cases as of Sunday. There were 175 active cases in Hume on September 1. Five of the active cases are in the 3064 postcode, which includes Craigieburn and Roxburgh Park. That postcode has had 905 cases in total, the second-highest in the state. There have been just six new cases in 3064 in the past two weeks, with none since October 2.

Postcode 3049 (Westmeadows and Attwood) has two active cases, both of which are at the Baptcare Brookview Community nursing home in Westmeadows. The home has been linked to 21 cases. Postcodes 3047 (Broadmeadows and Jacana) and 3048 (Coolarro and Meadow Heights) have one active case each. Overall, there have been 1643 cases in Hume, the third-most in the state. The Department of Health and Human Services has one Hume location on its list of high risk places.

A person with COVID-19 caught a train at Broadmeadows between 1pm and 3pm on both September 28 and 29, before disembarking at North Melbourne and switching trains to travel to St Albans where they caught a bus. Anyone who was on the trains or bus at the times is encouraged to watch for symptoms, and if any symptoms occur, to get tested. In Whittlesea, there were just five active cases as of Sunday. Two of those cases are in Epping, while there is one case in each at Mill Park, South Morang and Lalor. There have been just two news cases in the

Hume Tennis Centre staff are keen to see players back on court. (Supplied)

Tennis ruling slammed By Tara Murray Tennis courts remain closed across metropolitan Melbourne, much to the shock of coaches and players. There had been some hope that tennis could resume as some COVID-19 restrictions eased last week, but coaches were left stunned when restrictions on playing weren’t lifted. Hume Tennis and Community Centre’s Tim Connelly said they were disappointed that they still couldn’t return to the court, while people in regional Victoria were allowed to play tennis. “It’s quite ridiculous,” he said. “Tennis Victoria and Tennis Australia have been advocating to open [courts] back up. We thought it was a great opportunity for the government to have some wins and allow people to get back to doing something that

helps their mental health. “It’s completely COVID safe. We are just frustrated.” Mr Connelly, who is also the president of the Tennis Coaches Association of Victoria, said both Tennis Australia and Tennis Victoria had implemented first class COVID safe plans and all clubs had digital tracking. “In regards to where tennis is seen with other daily activities, tennis is safer than a lot of them,” he said. “Tennis is so easy to segregate. “Tennis courts were never closed anywhere else but in Victoria, which is quite significant.” Mr Connelly said as tennis coaches fall under the fitness wage and conditions award, they could potentially set up a portable net in a public recreation area and coach from there, but they couldn’t do the same on a court which

is fenced off. Hume is also home to the largest wheelchair tennis hub in Australia. Sunbury’s Steve Woodman said his son Jin is part of the Hume Tennis Centre’s wheelchair tennis hub. “It’s been his exercise for all those years,” Mr Woodman said. “There’s not many places where you can use a wheelchair to get exercise over the last few weeks. “We’ve tried to exercise on footpaths, but we’ve had a couple of prangs. He’s pretty keen to get back into it.” Mr Woodman said he had seen his son’s desire to play tennis wane a bit while he is struggling physically. Mr Woodman said it was frustrating to see parks full of families, but tennis players couldn’t hit the court socially distanced.

municipality in the past two weeks, after 25 the previous two weeks. There have been 1202 cases overall in Whittlesea. Overall, cases across Victoria continue to drop as metropolitan Melbourne edges closer to the mark needed to ease restrictions on October 19. On Monday, there were just nine cases in the previous 24 hours across the state with no deaths. It leaves the 14-day rolling average at 11.6 with 13 cases with an unknown source. Tara Murray

Police issue scam warning Whittlesea residents are being warned about a telephone scammer who is claiming to be a police officer from the Mill Park police station. Police recently took to the Whittlesea EyeWatch Facebook page to warn residents about the scammer. They have asked people to pass on the message to anyone who is vulnerable to being scammed. The “supposed” police officer has been telling call recipients that they have an outstanding warrant or fine that must be paid. If they don’t pay, the scammer says, they will be arrested. The number displayed on the caller identification is that of the Mill Park police station. The calls though are not from Victoria Police or any other law enforcement agency. Residents are asked to check the authenticity of the phone call, by asking for proof of identity such as the police officer’s registered number. Residents are then asked to call back the police station and confirm that the call didn’t come from them. Anyone who has lost money as a result of this type of scam, is asked to report the matter to police. In another telephone scam being used across the western suburbs the caller, again pretending to be a police officer, states the victim’s bank accounts have been used for fraudulent activity and they may be liable for criminal charges or arrested. The caller then directs the victim to withdraw a significant amount of cash from their account and deposit this into another bank account. Report scams to Scamwatch via: https://bddy.me/2Eo8BuA.y

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3 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

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Hub offers mental health support By Tara Murray A new mental health hub has opened in Broadmeadows to provide greater access to support and deal with the mental health impacts of COVID-19. The HeadtoHelp hub is one of 15 hubs being set up around Victoria as part of the federal government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. People can access the hubs by calling the intake, advice and referral line’s trained mental health professionals who will then assess

their needs and connect them with the most appropriate local services. The North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) has set up three hubs, including the Broadmeadows hub, and contracted providers to run them. It has worked closely with primary health care services, hospitals, the Victorian Mental Health Pandemic Response Taskforce and the Victorian and federal governments to identify the locations and providers for the hubs. NWMPHN chief executive Christopher Carter said the advice line and the hubs would

‘‘

Mental health issues don’t discriminate

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- Christopher Carter be available to anyone in the community with or without a GP mental health treatment plan. “Mental health issues don’t discriminate,” Adjunct Associate Professor Carter said. “Many people in north, west and central Melbourne may have never experienced mental ill-health before and are facing new challenges

Online gig supports the arts A new website is helping put a spotlight on unique art, music, dance and other creative forms created in Whittlesea. The Whittlesea Arts website, set up by Whittlesea council, aims to support local artists by providing a platform for residents to participate in creative online programs and stay connected during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Dark Talk Time by local artist Ben Landau is featured on the website and connects strangers to participate in honest and rejuvenating phone conversations. “Now more than ever, local artists like me need new pathways to connect with the local community,” Landau said. “It’s very reassuring that in this time of isolation, we can deliver programs that bring people together and open up a whole new world through art.” Landau received a council grant from the COVID-19 Creative Communities Fund for the project. Whittlesea administrator Peita Duncan said Whittlesea Arts was an exciting new platform that celebrates unity and diversity. “The arts have a unique way of bringing people together,” Ms Duncan said. “Although we may be physically apart, this new online platform encourages engagement with people in our community by creating opportunities for cultural expression. Website: arts.whittlesea.vic.gov.au

due to COVID-19. “HeadtoHelp will provide a welcoming place for everyone who needs mental health and wellbeing support, whether their mental health issues are pre-existing or have emerged during the pandemic.” DPV Health is running the Broadmeadows hub. DPV chief executive Don Tidbury said it was an important public health initiative. To contact HeadtoHelp, call 1800 595 212 between 8.30am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday or visit headtohelp.org.au.

Masons Road stays two-way Masons Road is set to remain open to two-way traffic, following feedback from residents. Whittlesea council conducted a one-way trial of Masons Road earlier this year but community feedback showed residents were in favour of reduced speeds, less traffic, including through traffic on the gravel section, and the road remaining open and two-way. Originally built as a gravel road to provide local farm access, Masons Road has become a ‘rat run’ for motorists wanting to bypass Bridge Inn Road. The trial was put in place after residents repeatedly raised concerns about road safety and the condition of the road. Traffic on Masons Road fell by more than 60 per cent during the trial. To keep the road open to two-way traffic, council will look at installing 15 raised pavements on Masons Road, between Plenty Road and Texel Drive, and install a modified T-intersection at Pearsons Road. It’s hoped the improvements will reduce speeds on Masons Road and reduce the number of vehicles using the road as an east-west cut through. Tara Murray

Bollywood dance classes are being offered via Whittlesea Arts. (Supplied)

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Tara Murray

4 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

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NEWS

Thefts drive crime rise in Hume By Tara Murray Hume is one of Victoria’s most crime-affected municipalities, recording the fourth-highest number of offences in the state in the 12 months to June. According to the Crime Statistics Agency, 21,529 offences were recorded in Hume in the year to June, up from 21,063 during the same period last year – an increase of 2.2 per cent. Only Melbourne, Greater Geelong and Casey had more offences over the same period. Hume’s top five offence categories were theft from a motor vehicle (2265 offences), breaching family violence orders (2085 offences), other

theft (1874 offences), criminal damage (1379 offences) and obtaining benefit by deception (1274 offences). Craigieburn was Hume’s most crime-affected suburb, with 4159 offences reported to police. Broadmeadows (3924), Sunbury (2731), Campbellfield (1464) and Roxburgh Park (1310) rounded out the top five. Family violence remains an area of concern in Hume, with offences reported increasing 10.5 per cent on the previous 12 months. There were 4221 cases, the second-highest in the state, behind only Casey. In Whittlesea, overall offences increased by 3.2 per cent, up to 16,556 offences in the 12

months to June. Epping recorded the most offences, with 3799 offences reported to police. Thomastown (2818), Mill Park (2104), Lalor (1645) and Mernda (1343) round out the top five. Of the five, only Mill Park had a decrease in offences from the previous 12 months, dropping from 2285. Theft from a motor vehicle (1847), other theft (1840), breach of family violence orders (1528), obtaining benefit by deception (1183) and criminal damage (1059) were the most reported crimes in Whittlesea. Family violence was up 6.1 per cent on the previous 12 months.

Deputy Commissioner Rick Nugent said thefts from motor vehicles were a major driver of crime across the state, contributing to the state’s six per cent increase in recorded offences. The latest crime statistics come as police revealed they would be honing in on gangs who were responsible for car thefts, aggravated burglaries, home invasions, serious assaults and knife crimes. “Some of these gangs we know are responsible for some of the serious and violent crime that’s been occurring in metropolitan Melbourne and also in some rural areas over the past year,” Deputy Commissioner Nugent said.

Stories from a pandemic Whittlesea residents are being encouraged to create videos to share their experiences during lockdown. Whittlesea council has started a community video project that encourages people to tell their own pandemic journey while also helping to tell the wider community’s story. Council will provide a daily theme over four weeks and participants will be asked to film one clip a day, ranging from five to 30 seconds. Cinematographer and director David Franjic will compile the video submissions into a showpiece community film at the end of lockdown. Mr Franjic has worked in film, television and video content for 20 years. He was the 2019 Tropfest winner for Best Cinematography and the recipient of five Australian Cinematography Society Awards.

Whittlesea festival and events co-ordinator John Fleming said the project was like a video diary where the community could see the world through another person’s eyes. “We want to see whatever you are drawn to, wherever your eye leads you,” Mr Fleming said. “I’m really looking forward to finding lots of different textures in my environment. Whether it’s a crack in a concrete path at my home, or the bark of a small tree, or some insects flying around a window. “It’s the micro and the macro level of our lives. For this reason we need as many people as possible to take part – to give the breadth of experiences. Individually we play a part, together we write the story.” Details: arts.whittlesea.vic.gov.au Tara Murray

Whittlesea festival and events co-ordinator John Fleming. (Supplied)

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Aged care upgrades Two aged care facilities in Bundoora and one in Broadmeadows are among more than 50 public sector residential aged care facilities to receive funding for upgrades. McLellan House Hostel in Broadmeadows will receive $674,900, while Ian Brand Nursing Home and Merv Irvine Nursing Home, both in Bundoora, will receive $675,650 and $872,850 respectively.

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Bing Crosby and Benny Goodman. (Pictures: Supplied)

Festival tunes in to radio Bundoora radio station 3KND had no hesitation in getting involved in this year’s re-imagined Victorian Seniors Festival. With no actual events allowed to occur due to COVID-19, the festival has gone digital, partnering with local radio stations which will air weekly shows for two months. 3KND, Melbourne’s only Indigenous radio station, has been featuring festival stories and voices from Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Elders, as well as entertaining music that takes people back to when they were young. Station manager Gerry Lyons said the radio station was proud to be part of the initiative and everyone at the station was excited to be involved. “There’s lots of old-time music and stories

from young and older people,” Mr Lyons said. “The young ones growing up, have had Elders around and telling stories and these stories are told so much. The stories are as relevant today as they were back then.” Mr Lyons said the feedback so far had been really good, with listeners ringing up the radio station saying they love listening to the seniors festival shows. “It runs every Thursday and it’s a really good time, with people starting to get ready for the weekend. It has gone down really with the older generation.” The Seniors Festival show on 3KND is on Thursdays at 7pm until October 29.

Whittlesea council has partnered with Carers Victoria to provide free health and wellbeing workshops for unpaid carers living in Whittlesea in recognition of National Carers Week. The workshops start October 12 and are themed around communication, setting boundaries and dealing with frustration. There will be a special session on Life on the Autism Spectrum. Registration: whittlesea.vic.gov.au/events.

Kangan’s plumb role A Sustainable Plumbing Centre will be fast-tracked at Kangan Institute’s Broadmeadows campus. The state government has committed $5.5 million for the project, with the centre enabling all of the TAFE’s plumbing courses to be located at Broadmeadows. The institute will add certificates III and IV plumbing qualifications to its current stable of courses. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Northern Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Tara Murray

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ELECTION

Chandra Bamunusinghe, Moe Abbouche, Yasmin Yigit and Paul Campbell. (Pictures: Supplied)

Aitken ward candidates want change Four current councillors and two former councillors are among those seeking election to the Aitken ward in the Hume council election. Overall, 26 candidates have nominated for the four seats available on council. Councillors Carly Moore, Drew Jessop, Jodi Jackson and Joseph Haweil are all seeking re-election. Chandra Bamunusinghe, who was on council between 2012 and 2016, is seeking a second term. On his Facebook page, Mr Bamunusinghe said he was running for council because too often local residents are left behind when decisions are made. He said council needed to focus on local jobs, capping council rates and better community services to better serve the growing community. Moe Abbouche, a two-time former mayor, is also looking for a return to council. He was on

council between 2000 and 2008. He stood in Meadow Valley at the last council election. On his Facebook page, he said Roxburgh Park residents had been short-changed and that it was important for council to do all it could to speed up industrial development in Merrifield to help create local jobs. He is also advocating for the duplication of Craigieburn and Mickleham roads. Yasmin Yigit is providing a united platform with Jacksons Creek candidate Stephanie Casey and Meadow Valley candidate Phillip Di Biase. They are aiming to change the way local government deals with domestic violence and bullying during the pandemic and beyond. Ms Yigit said she is a passionate advocate for victim’s rights and assistance, having experienced first-hand the personal effects of bullying. She said she wants to stamp it out –

beginning in Hume. “The school yard is where family violence starts,” she said. The trio is pushing for some of Hume council’s budget to be spent on helping the most vulnerable in the community and advocating for a family violence recovery centre in Hume. They will also advocate for all councils to increase funding to local family violence groups and put a submission to the state government to subsidise course fees for a graduate certificate in domestic violence which costs $12,000. Paul Campbell is looking to join his wife Jodi Jackson on council. Mr Campbell, who has attended most council meetings in the past two years, said he had been a spectator to complacency for too long and he wanted to advocate for like-minded people and to influence some change from within.

“My reasons for standing in this election arose from seeing an increasing disconnect between the community and the council as an organisation, and the pipeline for this being our elected councillors. “Without more independent representation in the chamber we can’t achieve as many desired outcomes for the community unless it also aligns with the agenda of party-affiliated councillors, being that they’ve held the majority vote for a number of years now and have a stale inclination to default to a block motion acceptance of officer’s recommendations. “As a ratepayer myself I haven’t felt well served by the majority. Craigieburn Road duplication campaigner Jim Overend is among the others seeking election. Tara Murray

Adem Atmaca, Grahm Marr, Sheriden Tate and Phillip Di Biase. (Pictures: Shawn Smits and supplied)

Two spots up for grabs in Meadow Valley Two new faces will represent the Meadow Valley ward on Hume council. Three-time former mayor Geoff Porter and councillor Jana Taylor have decided not to stand for re-election. Current councillors Karen Sherry and Kurt Naim are among 20 candidates overall seeking election in the ward. Two-time former mayor Adem Atmaca is looking to return to council. Mr Atmaca served on council between 2003 and 2016, but failed to be elected at the 2016 election. He said many sporting clubs and community groups had contacted him recently encouraging him to run again. “Over the last four years it seems Meadow Valley ward hasn’t received its fair share of rates spending. All the major new projects and infrastructure has been built in Sunbury and Craigieburn.

“The community has seen a deterioration in services and maintenance of infrastructure due to the different priorities of the current councillors. “People have had enough and want value for their rates and councillors to focus on core council services. Increasing rates during the pandemic was the last straw.” Graeme Marr, who was on Hume council between 1997 and 2000, has again thrown his name into the ring. Sheriden Tate, who has long advocated on several community issues, has put her hand up for the first time, feeling the need for independents to reflect the community voice. “I don’t feel community needs are currently adequately met,” she said. “As a member of several community groups, I hear common topics raised by fellow residents – overdevelopment, parking, need for neighbourhood character

overlays to protect local areas, improved council governance policy so community input into council decision making processes are taken onboard, waste fires and recycling management, declaring climate emergency, improved employment opportunities and more funding for arts, parks and bike paths. “I want to address these and other areas to drive outcomes that make Hume the best it can be.” Phillip Di Biase, who stood in Jacksons Creek ward at the last election, is this time standing in Meadow Valley ward. He has a united platform with Aitken ward candidate Yasemin Yigit and Jacksons Creek ward candidate Stephanie Casey. They are aiming to change the way local government deals with domestic violence and bullying during the pandemic and beyond. Mr Di Biase has a background in criminal

justice, having studied family violence prevention and undergraduate law. He has worked with Good People Act Now, a group which aims to educate students about how to spot bullying and family violence. The three are pushing for some of Hume council’s budget to be spent on helping the most vulnerable in their community and advocating for a family violence recovery centre in Hume. They will also advocate for all councils to increase funding to their local family violence groups and put a submission to the state government to subsidise course fees for a graduate certificate in domestic violence which is $12,000. Among other candidates is Chris Hollow, brother in-law to current councillor Carly Moore and former mayor Casey Nunn. Tara Murray 7 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

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Silver linings in a pandemic Adjunct Associate Professor Chris Carter, CEO North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network From the bushfire smoke staining our skies in January, to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that has restricted all our lives, there hasn’t been a time in recent memory that has done more to challenge the mental health of our community than 2020. Particularly in Melbourne, where we are hopefully just beginning to come out of our second wave of the virus, it would be hard to find someone who hasn’t felt a greater level of anxiety, fear, frustration and loss. The massive changes we have all had to make to our lives have left many people struggling, whether they’ve lost their job, become socially isolated, or are having to juggle home-schooling and work. What is also unprecedented is the huge amount of support now coming through from the community, governments and health organisations to help us all get through this pandemic. One of the newest services now available in the north, west and central Melbourne is HeadtoHelp, which provides mental health support for anyone who needs it. You can access the service by calling 1800 595 212. A trained mental health professional will help you find the best service or support for you, either co-ordinating with existing services or at one of the new HeadtoHelp hubs, in Broadmeadows and Wyndham Vale, in our region. Visit: headtohelp.org.au HeadtoHelp is an example of how all parts of the system are pulling together to make things better. Funded by the Australian government, organised and established by North Western

Melbourne Primary Health Network, and operated by a group of community health organisations with strong ties to their local community. All of this up and running within less than a month of being announced, which would have been called impossible before this pandemic began. But if there is a silver lining to COVID-19, it is the way it has made us question what is possible and what isn’t. Telehealth has meant we can now access medical help or mental health support as easily as picking up our phones. The great working from home experiment has shown that maybe shuttling hundreds of thousands of people in and out of our city centres every day isn’t the only option. As much as our lives can feel shut down now, possibilities for the future are opening up. It’s up to us to carry the good things forward. Check in on your friends, your families and your colleagues. And keep doing that next year, and the year after that. Keep talking about mental health, until it’s as normal as chatting about the weather. And let’s keep the community spirit alive, the spoonvilles and rainbow trails andrandom acts of kindness that have kept us all going. If we can do that, then we all have a healthier, happier and more connected future to look forward to. And if 2020 has taught us anything, it is that just about anything is possible.

Adjunct Associate Professor Chris Carter. (Supplied)

Working out at home • Exhale as you push the tins up. Biceps Curl

• This is a ‘pull’ movement. • Exhale as you lift the tins up. Bent Over Row

• This is a ‘hinge’ and a ‘pull’ movement all in one. • Exhale as you pull the tins up and out.

The bath towel Lunge and Twist

SIT DOWN STAND UP

SHOULDER PRESS

Use a sturdy dining chair on a steady surface (even push it up against a solid wall for extra stability) for these exercises: 8 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

LUNGE AND TWIST

Overhead Squat Walk

ELEVATED PUSH UPS

BENT OVER ROW

Sit Down Stand Up

• This is a ‘squat’ pattern. • Aim to sit down and stand up without using your hands. • Exhale as you stand up. Elevated Push Ups

The dining chair

• This is a ‘lunge’, a ‘pull’ and a ‘rotation’ movement all in one. • Pull the towel taut in front of you at chest level. • Take this one slowly – exhale on the twist and as you stand back up from the lunge.

(Pictures: Supplied)

With gyms not set to open until the end of October in the current roadmap to easing coronavirus restrictions, many Melbournians are turning to ‘at home’ workouts. While there is a myriad of resources out there for you to follow, working out at home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. And you have all the equipment that you need in your pantry and around your house. A basic workout includes a warm up (to slowly raise your heart rate and to prepare your joints for movement), the main part of the workout (where your heart rate will be raised and your muscles will be working) and the cool down/stretch (where your heart rate will come back down and we move oxygenated blood back to the muscles). An overall workout will also include the seven basic human movement patterns – squat, the lunge, a push movement, a pull movement, a hip hinge, a torso rotation and locomotion. And that is what these exercises aim to do – all from the comfort of your home. Of course, please do modify these exercises in consideration of any injuries or concerns that you may have. Take breaks throughout your workout as needed and consult your GP or Allied Health Professional before starting a new exercise program.

• This is a ‘push’ movement. • Exhale as you push your chest away from the chair seat. Elevated Mountain Climbers

OVERHEAD SQUAT WALK

• This is a ‘rotation’ movement. • Exhale as you bring one knee in towards the opposing elbow.

The soup cans Tins of food are generally 400-500g and these offer a great way to add resistance to your exercises: Shoulder Press

• This is a ‘push’ movement.

• This is a ‘squat’, a ‘pull’ and a ‘locomotion’ movement all in one. • Pull the towel taut with your arms extended overhead, slightly in front of your face. • Work along the length of a hallway or a room. • Exhale each time you stand up out of the squat. To turn this into an easy, at home workout, aim to do 90 seconds to 2 minutes of each exercise, resting 30 seconds to 1 minute between each. For a basic warm up, complete three sets of the dining chair exercises at 30 seconds each. To cool down, spend 30 seconds stretching each of the major body parts – front and back of legs, front and back of your torso and front and back of your arms. Any movement that can be incorporated into your day is a positive undertaking. A 30 minute workout, such as this one, is always a great idea, but so is short increments of incidental activity. * https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/ publishing.nsf/Content/health-pubhlth-strategphys-act-guidelines#npa1864

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

Former mayor eyes upper house By Tara Murray

Ms Nunn was on council between 2012 and 2016, before deciding not to stand for a second term. The northern metropolitan region seat stretches from Brunswick through to Mickleham. “It’s pretty important that we have representatives that live in the communities that vote Labor and help form a Labor government,” Ms Nunn said. “We can become too city-focused and we can ignore the suburbs. People out here want local representatives.” Ms Nunn, who lives in Craigieburn, said there were plenty of good candidates who

Making the most of it Families were making the most of nice weather and eased lockdown restrictions last week in Whittlesea. Star Weekly photographer Damjan Janevski headed to Whittlesea Public Gardens in Lalor to capture those enjoying the sunny conditions.

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 216792

Former Hume mayor Casey Nunn has put her hand up to fill the empty upper house seat for the northern metropolitan region left vacant by the resignation of Jenny Mikakos. Ms Nunn expressed her interest in filling the role on social media on the weekend after Ms Mikakos resigned as state health minister and from the Parliament following the hotel quarantine inquiry. Labor will fill the seat in the coming weeks. Ms Nunn, who was Hume’s youngest mayor, told Star Weekly, she wanted someone from the outer suburbs to step up and represent the area.

Casey Nunn. (Shawn Smits)

had also nominated. She said that she hadn’t considered standing for Parliament before, but thought the timing was right.

“I’m really comfortable with the roles I’m doing now,” she said. “I’m doing some community service work and sit on a couple of boards that do really useful stuff, but I think it’s a really good opportunity. “When I saw some of the other contenders and they were city-focused, I thought someone from the suburbs should put their hand up as well. “I’ve had a lot of governance experience and [husband] Daniel [English] and I’ve lived here our whole lives. “I’m just keen for it to be someone from the suburbs.”

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FEATURING ... HEALTH & WELLBEING

Make healthy eating Part&Parcel of your day Melbourne couple Daniel Kagan and Lia Gery recently launched Part&Parcel, their online business that’s truly revolutionary … and frankly life-changing to boot. Anyone interested in effortlessly accessing affordable organic pantry staples – underscored with sustainability and ethical practices – is invited to “sit up and listen”, as they say, because Part&Parcel offers something very special. Firstly, Dan and Lia ask you to imagine: Virtually shopping from shelves brimming with only the good stuff, curated by someone you trust, like a friend. Farming, sustainability and ethical practices for every product have all been researched. Local products are prioritised – but so are brands that are doing good in the world. And these premium, organic products are actually affordable – about 40 per cent lower than regular retail prices. The pièce de résistance? No more trolley pushing and boot loading, because these heavy goods are conveniently delivered to your doorstep … in plastic-free recycled packaging, and in quantities large and small. And delivery fees are tiny. Part&Parcel operates with a membership model, meaning that it is memberships and not product profit margins that maintain the business. For $60 a year, members can ‘shop’ for the highest quality, extensively researched, provenance-proven, organic pantry staples – all curated by Dan and Lia to effectively eliminate the ‘tyranny of choice’. As Dan puts it, going to a store and having to read numerous labels to identify what you need is challenge enough, let alone feeling confident about a purchase. “I realised how confusing food labelling was, especially when you’re shopping at a ‘health food store’,” says Dan. “My favourite

Daniel and Lia with their sons, Tai (2) and Eli (5). (Supplied)

‘healthy vegan chocolate’ has more sugar than a Cadbury chocolate bar. “Here I was, a seemingly well-educated person when it comes to ‘healthy eating’, and I was confused re labelling and ‘health claims’. I also found the choice overwhelming – how can any busy person have the time to discern from one brand of muesli to the next, and to also have the time to shop around town finding these products?”

Following more than three years’ product research, and speaking to farmers, suppliers and manufacturers, Dan had the answers – and Part&Parcel was born … just as the pandemic hit town. But that hasn’t dampened Dan and Lia’s enthusiasm for making healthy eating more accessible to everyday Aussies. “I simply don’t want geography, price and knowledge to deter people from eating/

shopping this way. We’ve done all the hard work so our members don’t have to.” With its different business model, the couple know people will have questions. Lia has created a brilliant website, with every question answered, and painstakingly curated shelves to virtually browse. Dan and Lia are offering $15 off your first order, so visit www.partandparcel.com.au to start shopping or for more details.

12463090-RC41-20

10 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

FEATURING ... HEALTH & WELLBEING

Aged care that feels like home Residents at Mayflower Reservoir Aged Care are watching with excitement as a brand-new double-storey facility for 110 residents takes shape, with the first stage now open for tours. Proudly not-for-profit, Mayflower is an independent, community-based organisation with more than 50 years’ experience in enhancing the wellbeing of older Australians, with the transformation of the 40-year-old home in Reservoir its latest offering.

It feels like home Light, bright spaces and generous rooms with private en suites are a feature of Mayflower, which has been thoughtfully created as dementia-friendly, with modern yet cosy décor. Each household of 22 residents will enjoy their own private spaces for dining, relaxing and entertaining. There are also spacious shared areas for activities that help promote wellbeing and social connections.

Lifestyle and wellbeing focus The key to a happy life is an active and engaging lifestyle. With access to onsite wellness facilities, a vibrant lifestyle program and strong ties to the local community, residents can keep enjoying the activities they love. Time is taken to understand personal interests, with activities designed to promote living the best life every day – some days, a cuppa and chat; another to savour peace and quiet; or perhaps whip up a batch of biscotti in the communal kitchen.

The new addition to Mayflower Reservoir Aged Care is taking shape. (Supplied)

• Landscaped gardens, including a tranquil sensory garden and four lush courtyards • Group excursions to popular attractions and local arts and entertainment favourites • Personal carers to take residents on outings

Programs and amenity • Intimate lounge and dining spaces suited to quiet time and socialising • Private room for celebrating special occasions • Reflection room and church services to support residents’ diverse spiritual needs

families. Thoughtful and experienced carers and staff find opportunities to brighten every day. After all, it’s all the little things that add up.

Join the waitlist Applications are now being accepted, but places are limited. Speak to friendly staff on the phone number below, or visit the website for more information.

Flexible aged care services Personalised care With residents at the heart and soul of what Mayflower offers, registered nurses are on duty 24/7, while individualised care plans are created in consultation with residents and their

LIVE LIFE YOUR WAY WITH MAYFLOWER AGED CARE

Designed to support wellness, re-ablement and ageing in place, services include home care, low-to-high care, specialised dementia care, and palliative care. Residents won’t ever need to move, which provides genuine peace of mind.

Mayflower Reservoir Aged Care, 56 Elliot Street, Reservoir. Inquiries: 9460 2480 or visit www.mayflower.org.au

BRAND NEW HOME!

Some days you want a cuppa and a chat, other days you just want to enjoy some peace and quiet. And today… if you want to bake biscotti, that’s okay with us. At Mayflower, we want to make every day better for our residents by providing genuine, individually tailored support and care. That is why people — and their needs — have been the heart and soul of everything we do, for over 50 years.

We embrace family, spirituality and cultural diversity, which is celebrated through our lifestyle programs, menu options and multicultural staff.

12461791-ACM41-20

Nestled in a quiet pocket of a vibrant multicultural community, Mayflower Reservoir offers first class care in a warm and homelike environment.

Our registered nurses, on duty 24 hours a day, provide a full range of care services — from low to high care, specialised dementia care and palliative care — so you can feel confident knowing that we can support you, whatever your needs may be. Call us to book a tour of our home today. T: 03 9460 2480 | info@mayflower.org.au

mayflower.org.au 11 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

FEATURING ... HEALTH & WELLBEING

Ben Martens readily acknowledges that never have any of us been through such a tumultuous time, with coronavirus restrictions, the isolation, and feelings of helplessness and lack of control affecting everyone. This has been undoubtedly true for residents at The Elms Retirement Estate in Kilmore, says Ben, who is managing director of The Parks Villages parent company. But the feedback from residents confirms they are weathering the storm, mainly due to how safe and secure they feel within the community. “Our team has kept our residents well informed about what’s safe, what’s not, and what restrictions we have to work with,” Ben says. “In fact, many have said they are so glad to be in the village at this time, rather than living in isolation in their original family home. And the fact they are one step removed from the Melbourne metropolitan area is another source of comfort.” Another advantage to living in the village, as opposed to isolation in a traditional suburban home while dealing with the pandemic is the fact that residents have been able to manage and be involved in the “little things”. “It started back in March,” Ben says, “with communication to all residents and staff – constant, accurate, reassuring. “And encouraging everyone to follow the guidelines and respect the rules that the health authorities and state government have asked us to follow. “Then it involved encouraging people to write down their stories so we could produce a book of life tales. Our Community, Our Story is the outcome, now published on our new website. “Ensuring people had adequate sanitiser and

(Supplied)

Village life a source of comfort

face masks so that they didn’t have to worry about access to those essentials was another aspect. It was about making sure that they had essential food and medical supplies and someone who could deliver these things. “It entailed making sure that their homes and gardens were still maintained, without compromise.

Welcome to our Country Family.

“Ongoing, it involved making sure residents have games to play, puzzles to access, people to talk with on the phone – and for them to know there is always someone there to reach out to. “It’s also meant encouraging people to get outside and walk, and talk to their neighbours at appropriate distance – and yet to feel safe doing so within the confines of the

retirement estate.” Once restrictions ease, some homes and apartments will be available to buy – call Fran to find out what’s coming up. The Elms Retirement Estate, 33 The Elms Boulevard, Kilmore. Inquiries: 5734 2800 or www.elmsestate.com.au

Family operated and owned, with a number of retirement estates in Melbourne’s North, life at all our estates is seen as an extension of family life. We have always encouraged a sense of belonging within an inclusive, welcoming community. Our estates are friendly places with happy residents and empathetic staff, management and business owners who are willing to listen and act as required. We want our residents to feel proud of where they live, to feel cared for, safe and comfortable and included as part of the community. We want to be able to show you the reality of living in a Family owned family operated village rather than the hype of what living in a Corporately owned village is like. During this time of the COVID-19 pandemic we have done everything we can to keep our residents safe, well informed and supplied with the things they need to ensure their well being is maintained. We have been overwhelmed by our residents response who tell us they are so happy to be at The Elms Retirement Estate. They really appreciate that we are looking out for them and they couldn’t think of any other place they would rather be during this very trying time. Visit our new website at www.elmsestate.com.au or phone Fran for a friendly chat and she can organise a Covid Safe inspection on 03 57342800. Oh, and did we mention we have a range of homes and apartments to suit your taste and price preferences.

elmsestate.com.au KILMORE, VICTORIA 12462084-LB41-20

12 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

FEATURING ... HEALTH & WELLBEING

Looking for just a little help - or more Healthy ageing means continually reinventing yourself. It means learning to adapt to change, finding new things to enjoy, staying physically active, taking care of yourself and your home, and staying connected to your community and loved ones. Paul Ostrowski, chief executive of Care Connect, believes that few people find it easy to make lifestyle changes. “Change can be especially difficult for people who may need a little help as they pass through landmark ages such as 60, 70, 80 and beyond,” he says. “This is not only because a lifetime’s worth of routines have set in, but also because they may feel that asking for help could be a first step towards losing their independence.” And that’s where Care Connect steps in – an organisation with more than 25 years’ experience providing in-home care to more than 40,000 Australians. “If you, or your loved one, need support while engaging in physical activity, staying connected with the community, or managing daily tasks, Care Connect can provide trusted advice, care and support to enable you to remain as independent as possible while you keep on top of your health and wellness goals.” Mr Ostrowski says that maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for anyone, especially now with COVID affecting our degree of social interaction, wellbeing and exercise. “The health and wellness of all Australians is our priority. Our carefully selected, expert team is passionate about providing people with the care they deserve and understand the barriers that individuals and their families meet while applying for, and receiving, care.” In Victoria, Care Connect’s services can range from Home Care Package and Commonwealth Home Support Program

Care tailored to your needs. (iStock)

management, caring for those under 65 through the Linkages program, to bringing together older householders and younger home-sharers who are prepared to lend a hand in return for affordable accommodation, through its ‘Homeshare’ program. “Whether just a little help – or more – is

needed, we build close relationships with clients and the families who choose us to manage their care. We work alongside them to provide person-centred care, support and encouragement to empower them to remain independent and achieve their individual health and wellness goals.”

Mr Ostrowski offers encouragement: “Stay positive, stay well, and stay connected, and enjoy the tomorrows you’ve waited for!” Get in touch today and start your wellness journey by calling 1800 692 464, email info@ careconnect.org.au or visit www.careconnect. org.au (Please quote ‘Star Weekly’.)

A little help goes a long way Staying healthy and feeling your best is important at any age.

You don’t have to be an internet expert to ﬁnd the support you deserve. Our advisers are real people who take the time to get to know you and your loved ones, building genuine partnerships. We provide trusted advice, care and support to enable you to remain living independently in your own home, while you keep on top of your health and wellness goals. From shopping and help around the house, to staying connected with your community – make Care Connect your ﬁrst choice.

Connect with our expert care team today for independent advice that you can trust.

1800 692 464 info@careconnect.org.au careconnect.org.au 12462738-DL41-20

13 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

FEATURING ... HEALTH & WELLBEING

Safer than houses Ben Martens readily acknowledges that never have any of us been through such a tumultuous time, with restrictions, the isolation, and feelings of helplessness and lack of control affecting everyone. This has been undoubtedly true for residents at Bridgewater Lake Retirement Estate in Roxburgh Park, says Ben, who is managing director of The Parks Villages parent company. But the feedback from residents confirms they are weathering the storm, mainly due to how safe and secure they feel within the community. “Our team has kept our residents well informed about what’s safe, what’s not, and what restrictions we have to work with,” Ben says. “In fact, many have said they are so glad to be in the village at this time, rather than living in isolation in their original family home. And the fact they are one step removed from the Melbourne metropolitan area is another source of comfort.” Another advantage to living in the village, as opposed to isolation in a traditional suburban home while dealing with the pandemic is the fact that residents have been able to manage and be involved in the “little things”. “It started back in March,” Ben says, “with communication to all residents and staff – constant, accurate, reassuring. “Then it involved encouraging people to write down their stories so we could produce a book of life tales. ‘Our Community, Our Story’ is the outcome, now published on our new website. “Ensuring people had adequate sanitiser and face masks so that they didn’t have to worry about access to those essentials was another aspect. It was about making sure that they had essential food and medical supplies and someone who could deliver these things.

Bridgewater Lake. (Supplied)

Discover another side of Retirement.

estate. “Many kilometres of walking trails are all around, with residents able to access them without even crossing a road. “Bridgewater Lake Estate really is a safe haven for older Australians – safer than houses!” The new website shows some new and resale homes to sell when restrictions ease. People are

encouraged to check out the online art show from residents and other local artists, and vote for the most liked piece. Bridgewater Lake Estate Retirement Village, 9 Wedgewood Road, Roxburgh Park. Inquiries: 9308 8335 or www.bridgewaterlake.com.au

Family operated and owned, with a number of retirement estates in Melbourne’s North, life at all our estates is seen as an extension of family life. We have always encouraged a sense of belonging within an inclusive, welcoming community. Our estates are friendly places with happy residents and empathetic staff, management and business owners who are always there to lend an ear or share a story or simply attend your needs. We want our residents to feel proud of where they live, to feel cared for, safe and comfortable and included as part of the community. We want to be able to show you the reality of living in a Family owned family operated village rather than the hype of what living in a Corporately owned village is like. During this time of the COVID-19 pandemic we have done everything we can to keep our residents safe, well informed and supplied with the things they need to ensure their well being is maintained. We have been overwhelmed by our residents response who tell us they are so happy to be at Bridgewater Lake Retirement Estate. They really appreciate that we are looking out for them and they couldn’t think of any other place they would rather be during this very trying time. Visit our new website at www.bridgewaterlake.com.au or phone Peter for a friendly chat and he can organise a Covid Safe inspection on 03 9308 8335 Oh, and did we mention we have a range of homes to suit your taste and price preferences.

bridgewaterlake.com.au ROXBURGH PARK, VICTORIA 12462085-LB41-20

14 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

FEATURING ... HEALTH & WELLBEING

Most people suffer foot, ankle or knee pain at some point in their lives but, as the experts at Foot and Leg Pain Clinics explain, it can be difficult to find effective treatment with long-term results. The Mernda branch’s Dr David Kavanagh explains that the clinics, one of Australia’s leading foot and leg pain experts, provide proven solutions that have helped assist thousands to alleviate pain, heal injuries and even delay or eradicate the need for surgery. He also provides the following specialist information on common complaints and treatment: • Many foot and leg conditions are misdiagnosed and incorrectly treated, often because only the symptoms are treated and the cause and contributing factors are not addressed. • Many foot and knee conditions, e.g. plantar fasciitis symptoms, knee, heel and ankle pain are incorrectly treated with cortisone injections, anti-inflammatory medications and arthroscopies. These may provide some temporary relief but do not fix these conditions and can delay healing or cause further tissue damage. • Bad foot posture can continually pull your body out of alignment, placing undue stress on other joints and tissues throughout the body, contributing to pain, injury and arthritis. Consulting a lower limb, musculoskeletal expert who has an understanding of complex foot and leg biomechanics, is essential in ascertaining the exact nature of your condition and providing appropriate treatment. • The latest medical research supports the following strategies for safe, effective, long-term outcomes to relieve pain, improve

(Supplied)

Foot, knee and leg pain help

function and mobility, heal injuries and aid arthritis: 1. Load management strategies, to reduce the forces and stress placed through the joints and tissues . 2. Natural treatments that encourage joint

and tissue repair (this can include the latest regenerative therapies such as Prolotherapy and PRP). 3. Strengthening and conditioning programs to assist and Improve joint and tissue function and range of motion.

The Mernda Foot and Leg Pain Clinic is currently offering $50 OFF initial consultations. Foot and Leg Pain Clinics - Mernda is located at the Mernda Village Medical Centre. Inquiries: 1300 328 300.

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60 Mernda Village Dr, Mernda 15 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

FIRE RESCUE VICTORIA

‘‘

dedication to serving our community remains unchanged

’’

- David Bruce

FRV is a modern fire and rescue service here to serve and protect Victorians. (Pictures: Supplied/Fire Rescue Victoria)

New look, same dedication An important part of Victoria’s Fire Services Reforms, the newly formed Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) organisation stands to serve as a modern fire and rescue service ready to meet the needs of our ever-changing communities. Established on July 1 this year, FRV will be based at fire and rescue stations, offices and facilities across the state, some of which will be co-located with Country Fire Authority (CFA)

volunteer brigades. FRV will work alongside the CFA to deliver a strong and agile fire and rescue service, drawing on decades of knowledge and expertise to continue to serve and protect with an ongoing commitment to keep Victorians safe. There are 41 fire stations within FRV’s North and West Operations region. FRV Deputy Commissioner North and West

GRASSFIRES

Operations, David Bruce said: “FRV firefighters will deploy to incidents within FRV’s boundaries from fire stations that are staffed by firefighters 24 hours a day, seven days a week. FRV crews also deploy into CFA areas to support volunteer crews, who will continue to play a vital role. “While a new logo will be displayed on all FRV fire stations, appliances and uniforms,

FRV’s operational response, along with our commitment and dedication to serving our community remains unchanged. “The community can remain confident that highly-trained and experienced local firefighters from FRV and CFA will be there when they need them most. “Victorians and visitors to our state will continue to receive an exemplary fire and rescue service.” Residents of Melbourne’s north are covered by FRV’s Northern District, with 12 fire stations located in the suburbs of Broadmeadows, Pascoe Vale, Thomastown, Somerton, Epping, Preston, Bundoora, Heidelberg, Greensborough, Craigieburn and South Morang. More information on FRV can be found at www.frv.vic.gov.au

DON’T GET CAUGHT OUT Grassfires start anywhere Grassfires cancan start anywhere and spread quickly. and spread quickly. On thethe urban fringe... On urban fringe... If If you live you livenext nexttotograssland grasslandand and aa grassfire streets grassfirestarts, starts,walk walkat at least least two two streets back from the fire. back from the fire. If If you live you livetwo twoorormore morestreet street away away from grassland and a grassfire starts, from grassland and a grassfire starts, stay where you are - grassfires are stay where you are - grassfires are unlikely to spread into built up areas. unlikely to spread into built up areas. Never drive if you can see smoke or fire. Never drive if you can see smoke or fire. Thick smoke will make it hard to see Thick smoke will make it hard to see and traffic jams and accidents are likely. and traffic jams and accidents are likely. Keep the roads clear for emergency Keep the roads clear for the emergency services.

VicEmergency Hotline VicEmergency 1800 226 226 Hotline

1800 226 226

16 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

services.

cfa.vic.gov.au

FIRE RESCUE VICTORIA

Australians urged to prepare for summer disaster season Emergency Management Australia (EMA) has completed its annual disaster season briefings with states and territories and has urged Australians to properly prepare for the upcoming summer disaster season, which officially starts this month. Minister for Emergency Management David Littleproud said that local, state, territory and federal agencies are well prepared to support communities through natural disasters, including from the initial response and relief phase through to long-term recovery. “Since the horrific bushfires last summer, the government has been working to bolster Australia’s ability to respond to and recover from crises including natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic,” Minister Littleproud said. “The next challenge is to make sure we are all prepared for the disaster risks facing us over the coming season. “Significant grass and vegetation growth over winter, combined with higher than average temperatures across the southern part of Australia, means we are looking at the very real potential for a bad grass fire season. In recent weeks, Emergency Management Australia has been holding operational briefings with police, fire authorities and emergency service agencies in every state and territory to prepare for the disaster season. “The Australian government works with communities to prevent, prepare, respond and recover from disasters – from disaster mitigation initiatives, and community awareness and warning measures, through to disaster relief and recovery support,” Minister Littleproud said. “We have invested more than $2 billion to help communities recover from last summer’s bushfires and have already committed

Households can play a part in being disaster-ready. (iStock)

significant funding to better prepare for the future including in bushfire research, aerial firefighting and telecommunications. “We are investing more than $26 million annually in the National Aerial Firefighting Centre to improve Australia’s aerial firefighting capability, and more than $37 million to strengthen telecommunications resilience in bushfire and disaster-prone areas so that

communities can stay connected during emergencies. “There’s also been an important step in streamlining aid and support from the Australian Defence Force ahead of the 2020 2021 summer season with the Department of Defence and Home Affairs, through EMA, undertaking a comprehensive review of the Defence Assistance to the Civil Community

(DACC) arrangements. “While we can work with authorities to properly prepare, it’s also critical families, households and individuals do what they can to prepare themselves. By planning ahead, people can reduce the risk of injury and damage to property. “Information on how to prepare for disasters is available through state and territory authorities.”

Now is the time to get fire ready We all have a role to play in preparing for the threat of bushfire and grass fire. Now is the time to prepare your property before the fire season begins. Make sure you have a plan to help you and your family remember what to do in an emergency. 12464629-HL41-20

The CFA website has ideas and information to help you prepare. Learn more at cfa.vic.gov.au Some helpful tips: • Keep grass short • Keep gutters clear of leaf litter • Get rid of dry leaves, twigs and loose bark • Keep woodpiles away from the house • Store flammable liquids away from the house • Prune lower branches of shrubs and cut back overhanging branches • Remove flammable items such as boxes, furniture and doormats from decks and verandahs

whittlesea.vic.gov.au/stayingsafe A place for all

whittlesea.vic.gov.au 17 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

F th kid

TODAY Message us on Facebook to share your recipes and activity ideas.

Cook it

Dot to dot

ANZAC BISCUITS Ingredients 2 cups rolled oats 2 cups plain flour 2 cups coconut 1 1/2 cups sugar

250g butter 4 tbs golden syrup 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 2 tbs boiling water

Method 1. Turn oven to 160°C. Lightly grease oven trays. 2. Place oats, flour, coconut, sugar in mixing bowl. 3. Melt butter and golden syrup in saucepan. Take off heat. 4. Mix baking soda and boiling water in a cup. Add to melted butter mixture in the pan. Quickly add to mixing bowl. Mix well. 5. Roll tablespoonfuls of the mixture into balls. Place on trays 5cm apart. Press lightly with fork. 6. Bake for 20 minutes. Makes 12 biscuits. Recipe from www.kidspot.com.au

Make it POTATO PEOPLE You will need 2 small potatoes Skewer Art craft items to decorate (fabric, ribbon, buttons, wool, etc)

fun fact drink from Butterfliess often d te es - and they tasste mud puddles t! with their fee

YUM

Method 1. Join 2 potatoes together using the skewer. If the bottom potato isn’t sitting flat, you can slice the bottom off so it stands flat. 2.. Use 2 U art and craft items to decorate your potato person. Dress it, give it a face or add some sparkles. Pipe cleaners are great for arms, legs and mouths, buttons are handy noses and wool is excellent hair. Use glue or pins (if a grown up is helping) to stick things on. TIP: Use one potato if you want to create a rounder character - think Humpty Dumpty, Mr Bump, Shrek and Winnie the Pooh!

PRIVATELY ownEd And fAmILY oPERATEd EARLY EducATIon And chILdcARE cEnTRE cATERIng foR chILdREn 8 wEEks To 5 YEARs oLd • 7 AgE sPEcIfIc Rooms 4 AgE APPRoPRIATE ouTdooR PLAY sPAcEs PERmAnEnT dEdIcATEd PRofEssIonAL EducAToRs nuTRITIonAL mEALs PRoVIdEd • LIVE uPdATEs of YouR chILds dAY VIA kooL konnEcT APP

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Sudoku

Quick crossword 1

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

Down 1. Money put aside as a reserve (4,3) 2. Clumsy, graceless (9) 3. Lowest point (5) 4. Glasses held to the eye by a long handle (9) 5. Imprecise (5) 6. Effrontery (5,4) 7. Audibly (5) 8. Component (7) 14. Transfix (9) 16. Showing no emotion (colloq) (5,4) 17. Walkway for VIPs (3,6) 18. Undermine (7) 20. Doubter (7) 22. Former prisoner (2-3) 23. Cautious (5) 24. Beneath (5)

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

24 10

22 1

23 23

2 1

24 7

5 16

9 20

23 1

3 LETTERS ANY ASK ASS BOY CAB CAT EAT EEL ERA EWE FEE FEY HIT KEN NOR OPT PEG PUS RAW ROE SAD SOD SON TAD YES ZIT

16 10

1 7

1 15

22 16

2 13

ABCDE FGHIJKL MNOPQRSTUV WXYZ

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 E G 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 L

Quick crossword solution

SOLUTION TO DECODER 17:

WordBuilder WordBuilder

R P D E O 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 11 Very Good 14 Excellent 21

4 LETTERS ACHE ALOE AMMO ANTS BEAT BELT BIAS BROW CLOG CRAM DEAN DINE DRAM EASE FAUN FROM HERO

B E L T

LAIR LENT LESS LIMA LOOM LYRE MOSS MYNA MYTH OAFS OMEN OUST PACT PALE RASH REAP RISE ROAR SHED

SIGH SLIT SLOT SWAT TAPE TREE VAMP VAST 5 LETTERS AGAPE ALOHA AREAS ASKER AWARE DENTS DROSS EARTH EASED

ZAIRE ZILCH

EGRET ERASE HAWKS IDLES LORES MODEM ORATE RAINY REARM RESET SLOSH STALL STRAY TESTS TONIC TUNIC WILCO WRITS YEARN

6 LETTERS ESTEEM STYLES UPHELD ZEPHYR 7 LETTERS DEFAULT PEEPING PHANTOM THEOREM

Sudoku solutions

Decoder V

14 1

15 2

16 3

17 4

18 5

19 6

20 7

21 8

22 9

Across: 1. Nominal, 5. Vibrate, 9. Solid, 10. Rigmarole, 11. Endurance, 12. Sidle, 13. Gloom, 15. Top-secret, 18. So to speak, 19. Kudos, 21. Breve, 23. Circulate, 25. Enchilada, 26. Depot, 27. Tannery, 28. Erratic. Down: 1. Nest egg, 2. Maladroit, 3. Nadir, 4. Lorgnette, 5. Vague, 6. Brass neck, 7. Aloud, 8. Element, 14. Mesmerise, 16. Poker face, 17. Red carpet, 18. Subvert, 20. Sceptic, 22. Ex-con, 23. Chary, 24. Under. A W A R E

E A R T H

D R O S S

M O D E M

A L O H A

V A S T

W R I T S

A G A P E

H E R O

K S E T N Y L T E A S P E B O R M O E W N F T E A Y D

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

S L I T B E L T P E E P I N G

D Z R I A C T M A B O A D E F I A S N T E P U Z E P I G H L E C L H D

S W A T A I R E D L E S C A T M O S S Y N T S A U L T N O R R I S E A C H E S H Y R E E L R A S E O R E S E N T S

WordBuilder

Across 1. Token (7) 5. Quiver (7) 9. Dependable, sensible (5) 10. Lengthy, complicated procedure (9) 11. Stamina (9) 12. Move furtively (5) 13. Despondency (5) 15. Classified (3-6) 18. As it were (2,2,5) 19. Praise (5) 21. Musical note (5) 23. Spread around, make known (9) 25. Filled Mexican corn tortilla (9) 26. Bus or train station (5) DECODER 27. Place where animal hides DECODER are treated (7) 28. Unpredictable (7)

Decoder

WordFit

PUZZLES

EASY

MEDIUM

HARD

doe, doer, dop, dope, doper, dorp, drop, ode, ore, per, pod, pore, pored, pro, prod, red, redo, rep, rod, rode, roe, roed, rope, roped

SOLUTION TO DECODER 18:

R R

E T

M E

Insert the missing letters to make ten words — five reading across the grid and five reading down. Note: more than one solution may be possible.

1. Mount Meharry is the highest in which state? 2. Episodes of which classic 1960s TV series began “Five, four, three, two, one...”? 3. The Rabbittes, said to be the first happy family to appear in Irish writing since 1766, appear in novels by which Dublin-born writer? 4. Which artist painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Rome? 5. What animal’s name means “river horse”? 6. In a nursery rhyme, where would you go to see a fine lady with bells on her toes? 7. Which river flows through the Grand Canyon in the United States? 8. Is Opuntia a character in a play by Shakespeare, a river-crossing vessel in South Africa or a type of cactus? 9. Which song by an Australian performer has had the longest run at No.1? 10. Barack Obama was a congressman for which US state?

H Y M N S

C R I E S

5x5 solution N E R V E

Quiz

E M B E R

5x5

B E A S T

Quiz solution

All puzzles © The Puzzle Company

1. Western Australia, 2. Thunderbirds, 3. Roddy Doyle, 4. Michelangelo, 5. Hippopotamus, 6. Banbury Cross, 7. Colorado River, 8. Type of cactus, 9. Dance Monkey, by Tones and I, 10. Illinois.

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SPORT Chaplin grows in confidence as AFLW dream nears

Northern Knights Maeve Chaplin. (Shawn Smits) 204987_17

Northern Knights’ Maeve Chaplin’s confidence in her football ability has grown throughout the years, now she’s eyeing a spot on an AFLW list. Having played football since she was seven, Chaplin set her sights on an AFLW career when the competition was first announced. “I always wanted to get to that level,” she said. “I remember the AFLW was announced and I was so excited and I was like, ‘I need to play in it’. “I find the older I get the more the dream becomes more realistic. “Last year I did have a bit of doubt and then I got into the AFLW Academy, it was a massive confidence booster for myself. I knew then I could potentially get drafted and I had to work my hardest to achieve it.” With the draft approaching, Chaplin said the nerves were starting to set in. But there’s also a bit of excitement. “It’s really exciting and the opportunities that can come out of it are really exciting,” she said. “To see where it can take me, I’m pretty excited for it.” Chaplin, a key player for the Knights the past three years, said having the season cut short after three games was disappointing.

She said it wasn’t only the football she missed. “At the Knights especially, it’s a really good team and I’m close with a lot of the girls that play and it’s hard not seeing them,” she said. “My footy friends, we just click and just get along. I miss playing footy a lot, it’s a good outlet.” Chaplin played well in the first two games of the season, before an injury ruled her out of the second half of the third game. She said that she felt like she was on track for a strong season. “I was probably going to have one of my best seasons being a top ager and having that confidence behind me, that it is my draft year and I have to play my best to reach my end goal.” Chaplin said it was sad that her time at the Knights was over, but she knows there are new opportunities out there. She said the culture was one thing that she would take out of her time at the club. “Apart from being yourself and accepting whoever you are, to get where you want to be you have to work hard, is a big thing. “That’s a big thing with the Knights, I have to be working hard.” Chaplin said she had tried to train as much as possible, as she also juggles year 12 studies.

As well as her Knights commitments this year, Chaplin got to spend time with the best players in her age group as part of the AFLW Academy. “It’s such a high level of footy and a lot of the girls are so talented,” she said. “It was really good to be around that sort of talent and pushing yourself to keep up with everyone. “The coaches there are so dedicated to what they do and are really good role models. They show how to work hard.” Chaplin was named for the AFLW state combine in another sign that she’s on the radar of AFLW clubs. While the Victorians won’t get to test due to COVID-19, Chaplin has spoken with several clubs. “It’s pretty surreal that it is all happening,” she said. “I was ecstatic that clubs were interested in me at all, it came as a bit of a shock to me. I was not expecting it. “It’s been a good experience for myself to mature … and help me if I get to that next level. “It was good to get more confidence. It’s all coming together now and it’s all soon.” The AFLW draft is being held on October 6.

McKenzie seizes opportunity By Tara Murray Northern Knights co-captain Ellie McKenzie has had a football in her hands most of her life, and come Tuesday night, she’s hoping that it all pays off. McKenzie started playing when she was young and has continued through the ranks. She is now seen as a possible number one pick in the AFLW draft. For McKenzie, football started as something that she loved. “I started playing footy when I was about 5-6, just going down to AusKick after my brother went down and then played junior footy at Fitzroy Football Club,” she said. “I don’t think I ever suspected that footy would go anywhere for me. “I was just playing with the boys and enjoying it, so then to hear in 2017 they announced an AFLW competition, I was just ecstatic and I felt like I was finally working towards something. “I’ve been working towards it ever since … It’s so special to be a pioneer in the competition that has only played for four years. “If I was to be drafted that would be amazing.” Having done all the right things the past two years, including playing for Vic Metro in the national championships last season and earning selection in the AFLW Academy, McKenzie was primed for a big 2020. She had her best pre-season at the Northern Knights, with the side undefeated after three rounds, coming off a premiership season the year before. McKenzie, like many others, was shattered when the season was cancelled due to COVID-19. “It was pretty shattering for me as I had my best pre-season at the Knights and I think our team was destined to possibly win another grand final,” she said. “Obviously it was out of our control and everyone was in the same boat. “Those three games were some of the best games that I’ve ever been a part of. Our team was really strong together and we had worked really hard over the pre-season. “For me personally, I was really happy with my performance.” McKenzie said being named co-captain of the side had been a real honour. She said leadership was something that she had identified as one 22 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

area of her game she had needed to work on. Like several of her Knights teammates, McKenzie credits the culture at the Knights as playing a key part in individual and team success in recent years. “I think the main reason we had so much success was the connection,” she said. “Everyone got along with everyone and we were all friends on and off the field. “That connection and that really strong culture that we built down there, just created a really good environment for everyone. “The ability to make friendships and become close with your teammates, I think that’s the key for success. “[Coach] Marcus [Abney-Hastings] and [female talent manager] Nat [Grindal] and all the other coaches had worked really hard coming up with some good training ideas and some game plans and things like that.” McKenzie said not having football this year had been a bit different and took a bit of adjusting too. She tried to spend that extra time on her year 12 studies. With several clubs expressing interest in drafting her, McKenzie was selected for the AFLW state combine. Due to COVID-19, the Victorians won’t get the chance to test. “Looking at the girls last year, I always wanted to be a part of it,” McKenzie said. “To have that not happen in the normal circumstances is a bit upsetting, but to know that clubs are interested in me and they want to know more about me and how I work, I’m really pleased with that.” McKenzie has spoken to several clubs via Zoom meetings in the lead-up to the draft. While the draft process this year is different, she has had some experience before with her brother Tom McKenzie who was rookie listed by North Melbourne a couple of years ago. “I’m starting to get my head around it,” she said. “I was there when he [Tom] went through the whole process … It was good to see how he handled all of that and learned a lot from it. “It’s just great to know that clubs want to know me and I think it’s important.” “I’ve been waiting for this for a long time.” The AFLW draft is being held on October 6. Details: www.starweekly.com.au

Northern Knights Ellie McKenzie. (Shawn Smits) 204987_19

Tara Murray

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Warriors keen for a challenge Westmeadows is itching to get onto the pitch and test itself against the best in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association senior division. The Warriors are playing in the top grade for the first time, after claiming the division 1 north premiership last season. Warriors captain-coach Tarek Moughanie said it was surreal to know the cricket season was around the corner after everything that has happened this year. “We can hopefully start training in three weeks,” he said. “We are looking forward to getting out there.” The Warriors will take in a similar team as past season, with one big addition – Malith Cooray, who has played against the Warriors in recent seasons, has made the move across from Glenroy. Moughanie said Cooray would be a very handy pick-up and help strengthen their side. “I’m really looking forward to him joining the club.”

Darrel Brown, who was set to retire, will continue on for another year. “He said he would retire and then he was keen to play a handful of one-dayers,” Moughanie said. “The fixture [only being one-dayers] has played into our hands. “He was crucial for us last season and I think it’s the best I’ve seen him bowl in 10 years.” Moughanie said the biggest thing for them this season was going to be closing the gap between the better performers and the others in the team. He said they were hopeful that the likes of Clayton Campbell, Aaron Evans, Ryan Blair and Rhys Gleisner continued to make some more improvement. “We have to be a more consistent team to be a successful team in the senior division. “We know we can trust each other and hopefully that helps in close games. “We need to improve 15-20 per cent to be competitive. We’re not intimidated by the

standard and we’re looking forward to playing that better standard of cricket. “We have to refine our skills a bit and improve our game. We have the players, skills and capability on our day.” Moughanie said while they believed they were a better two-day side than a one-day team, they know they have the match-winners they need in the team. He said they would start training as soon as they were allowed when restrictions ease. The season is expected to start late November. “We’ll be looking at playing practice matches as soon as possible,” he said. “We’ll also look at playing T20s on our own against other teams during the season. We can’t rely on our ability, we have to train hard.” Tara Murray Darrel Brown is playing on – a bonus for Westmeadows. (Damjan Janevski) 203267_03

Rivergum awarded title By Tara Murray Rivergum has been awarded the 2019-2020 North Metro Cricket Association Jika Shield premiership nearly six months after the season came to a premature end, With COVID-19 hitting, the Kookas grand final against arch rival Rosebank never went ahead. The association decided not to award a premiership in any of the grades where grand finals didn’t go ahead. However that decision was appealed late last month. The appeals panel ruled that the higher ranked team in the three grand finals that didn’t go ahead, would be awarded the premiership. The Kookas were the higher ranked team after winning a semi-final against Rosebank, which had been the minor premiers. Kookas captain-coach Matt Perri said the announcement was a bit unexpected. “It’s five-six months later, so it’s a bit weird,” he said. “We had all sort of moved on and it’s now been given to us. “It got back to us that we had won the premiership, so it was a pleasant surprise. Everyone was pretty happy. “Hopefully down the track we can have a beer for it.” The premiership is the club’s fifth in eight years, having made the past nine grand finals. Perri said while it wasn’t the same as the others, it was still good to get the recognition. “We would have entered the grand final as the number one side,” he said. “If the weather played a part in the grand final, we would have been on the right side. “We did deserve it, even though we didn’t play the game.” The decision also brings to an end the rivalry between the Kookas and Rosebank, with Rosebank switching to the Diamond Valley Cricket Association over the winter. The 2019-20 season was the eighth season in a row the two teams were due to meet in the grand final. Perri said it was the one team they really looked forward to playing each season. “It’s a bit sad,” he said. “It will be very different for us. “We would play them twice a year and then a couple of times in finals and it was always a tough game. “The best bit about it was having a beer after the game and as you’ve got such a good rivalry, you talk about the past years. “We’ll miss every part of it.” Perri said they were only starting to think about the upcoming season, which is still to be finalised with some uncertainty due to COVID-19. There has been some talk of the season commencing on November 14. “It’ll be a short pre-season,” he said.

Rivergum’s Corey Altis. (Shawn Smits) 205492_04

“We’re normally slow starters and have poor pre-seasons, so I don’t think it will hurt us. “It normally takes us two months to get going. Maybe everyone else will be the same.” Perri said all of last season’s finals team was

set to return, while a number of players from their second XI will continue to push for selection. He said they had a balanced side, which reflected in the statistics last season.

Bats stars make squads A trio of Plenty Valley players has been named in the Cricket Victoria under-19 female emerging performance squad. With face-to-face training not possible in recent months, Cricket Victoria has offered almost 40 virtual training sessions to its under-age emerging performance squads. Grace Jones and Jasmine Nevins have both been named in the country squad, while Simran Gandhi has been named in the metro squad. All three were key players for the Bats Victorian Premier Cricket side. The under-19 female squad has benefited from insights provided by Australian players including Sophie Molineux, Georgia Wareham and Annabel Sutherland, current Victorian squad members including Makinley Blows and Nicole Faltum, as well as decorated past players including Michael Beer and Damien Fleming. Duncan Harrison, who is the head coach of the female development program, said the players had already benefited from being part of the squad. He said they were hoping to get in some face-to-face training when it was allowed, ahead of the national championships in April next year. The squad was one of four recently announced by Cricket Victoria, with the under-19 boys, under-16 girls and under-17 boys emerging player squads also named. Essendon player Bronson Hill has been named in the under-19 boys program. Hill, who comes from Bundoora Park, has been part of the Northern Falcons program at Youth Premier League level. In the under-16 girls, Plenty Valley’s Siena Ferrara has been named in the metro squad. Holly Nagpal, who played for Greenvale Kangaroos last season, is another to take that next step. She will play with premier team Essendon Maribyrnong Park this season. April Darkin, who has played for the Northern Falcons, and North West Wizards stars Lily Pelosi, Samohn Hereora, Alice O’Brien and Claudia O’Neill are also in the under-16 metro squad. Greenvale Kangaroos’ Coby Fitzsimmons and Bradman Constable have been named in the under-17 squad. Mernda’s Kai Turner will also get his chance to impress in the squad. Tara Murray 23 NORTHERN STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 6 October, 2020

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