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Star Weekly - Melton Moorabool - 17th November 2020

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NOVEMBER 17, 2020 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

infocus Road to recovery I SPECIAL EDITION SEE INSIDE

Celebration of learning (Ben McNamara)

The City of Melton Lifelong Learning Festival kicks off this week, offering something for everyone. Highlights include a screening of award-winning Australian film Happy Sad Man, an uplifting insight into the lives of five very different Australian men, followed by a Q&A with some of the cast and director Genevieve Bailey (pictured with war photographer Jake). ■ Full story: Page 9

Merger talks resume By Benjamin Millar Merger talks between the two health services serving almost one million people living in Melbourne’s west are back in full swing following the easing of the coronavirus crisis. Community engagement on the potential voluntary amalgamation between Djerriwarrh Health Services and Western Health is underway to determine how the two services might better serve communities in the booming population growth corridor. A Djerriwarrh spokesman said the

re-engagement will pick up discussion with community representatives where they left off in August as the coronavirus crisis took hold. “A short survey asking people in the Djerriwarrh and Western catchments will be available online and in local newspapers, with results and findings presented back to a virtual public meeting in December,” the spokesperson said. Talks about a potential merger began early this year after the state government announced last December that it plans to build a new Melton hospital, to be managed by Western Health.

The government has allocated $2.4 million to plan the new 24-hour medical facility, which will be built in Toolern. Western Health and Djerriwarrh Health Services currently service the healthcare needs of 985,000 people from Footscray and Williamstown to Bacchus Marsh, employing more than 7600 workers across 13 sites. The next step of merger talks will involve a public virtual meeting, to provide updates on the process and discuss the potential benefits that have been identified so far. This includes the potential for better sharing

of resources, increased access to higher levels of clinical expertise and diagnostic equipment and clearer referral pathways, as well as more staff and a stronger funding base. Discussions with staff and senior leaders from both health services were held earlier this year. The services have vowed not to close Bacchus Marsh Hospital or the Grant Lodge residential care unit, whatever the outcome. Community services currently provided by Djerriwarrh around Bacchus Marsh would also continue. Details: betterhealthforthewest.com.au

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PLANNING IS UNDERWAY

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2 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020

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Police brace for increased traffic By Benjamin Millar Victoria Police have warned motorists they will be out in force on country roads over coming weeks as regional Victoria braces for an influx of visitors escaping Melbourne following the removal of the “ring of steel”. Melbourne residents were last week permitted to leave the metropolitan area for the first time in more than four months of travel restrictions that were brought in to

limit movement during the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic. Police preparing for a flurry of traffic on regional roads as a result have launched a statewide operation targeting bad driver behaviour on roads to popular destinations such as Ballarat and the Macedon Ranges. Road Policing Command acting assistant commissioner John Fitzpatrick said ‘Operation Compass’ comes at a critical time for Victorians, with thousands of drivers, cyclists,

motorcyclists, new P-Platers, caravanners and truck drivers anticipated to share the road as they head off on a break. “This is the first real opportunity that Melburnians have had in some time to get out and enjoy what Victoria has to offer,” he said. “While it is fantastic to see people engaging in these recreational activities, we need people to go back to basics and arrive to their destination safely. This means buckling up, slowing down, and not driving while impaired.”

Time for some retail therapy

Acting assistant commissioner John Fitzpatrick said police will be targeting locations and major arterial roads that law-breaking drivers are expected to be. “I urge that drivers do all they can to arrive alive. This means taking appropriate breaks, leaving your phone alone and being aware of your surroundings.” • Please  take  part  in  an  important  survey  on  the  future  of  local  news  at: www. localnewsinnovation.org

Deadly airbags still in cars

Local businesses hard hit by the lengthy coronavirus lockdown are welcoming the return of customers in time for the traditional busy Christmas period. Traders are reporting an increase in foot traffic in shopping strips and centres across Melton and Moorabool, with increased movement since the five-kilometre and then 25-kilometre travel limits were dropped. CS Square centre manager Rod Kennedy said after nearly three months in lockdown, the centre was excited to welcome back retailers and customers. “Retailers were thrilled to finally open their doors and it was fantastic to see customers enjoying a coffee with friends, shopping for clothes and getting their post-lockdown makeovers,” he said. “Whilst customers have experienced queues, difficulty in booking appointment times and increased safety measures, we are incredibly grateful to all members of our community for playing their part to help keep everyone safe.” Fewer than half the stores in the centre were able to reopen under the strictest lockdown conditions, but more than 90 per cent of stores are now open and more are due to reopen soon with further easing of restrictions. Mr Kennedy said there has been a dramatic increase in shoppers throughout the centre since the easing of restrictions on October 28, with numbers even up compared with the same time last year. He encouraged shoppers who are able, to be flexible with timing to try and shop outside of peak times. “This helps us manage the social distancing aspects still in place,” he said. “The most important thing to remember is the safety and wellbeing of everyone in our centre is our highest priority.” Extra safety measures introduced to the centre include hand sanitiser stations, extra cleaning, and active monitoring of social distancing, number of customers in stores and wearing of face masks

Thousands of car owners in the west are driving around with deadly Takata airbags in their vehicles, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has warned. ACCC data reveals there are still 430 vehicles in Caroline Springs with Takata airbags which need replacing, 238 vehicles in Hillside and 271 vehicles in Melton. Sunshine West is home to 431 cars which need the airbags replaced, Hoppers Crossing has 589 and St Albans 449. The airbags are the subject of a recall after being associated with more than 330 injuries and 30 deaths worldwide. Under the recall, vehicle owners are entitled to have their faulty Takata airbags replaced free of charge. ACCC deputy chair Delia Rickard said the Takata airbags “are very dangerous and have the potential to explode with too much force, even in low-speed accidents, sending sharp metal fragments into the vehicle at high speed, potentially killing or seriously injuring its occupants”. “We are concerned about the disproportionate number of outstanding airbags in some communities, particularly in suburbs like St Albans, Springvale and Dandenong, where there has been less take-up of the free replacement service,” Ms Rickard said. “Anyone whose car is subject to the recall should not delay and contact a dealership.” Check if your airbag is affected by entering your number plate and state at ismyairbagsafe.com.au, or by texting ‘TAKATA’ to 0487 AIRBAG (247 224). Alesha Capone

Benjamin Millar CS Square centre manager Rod Kennedy. (Supplied)

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EVERY TEST HELPS Every test helps us get closer to a new normal. Go to work safely. Get back to school. See family. So even if your symptoms are mild, or you’ve been tested before, every test helps.

For testing locations visit CORONAVIRUS.vic.gov.au Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne

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Community urged to speak up By Benjamin Millar Moorabool and Melton communities affected by plans to run new high voltage transmission lines through the area are being urged to have their say on the environmental impacts of the project. Public comments are being sought on the Draft Scoping Requirements for the Environment Effects Statement (EES) for the Western Victoria Transmission Network Project, a plan to install 190 kilometres of new transmission lines from an existing terminal

station at Bulgana, north of Ararat, to a new terminal station in Sydenham. The Ausnet lines, which will operate at 500kV between a new terminal station north of Ballarat and Sydenham, have been slammed by the Moorabool and Central Highlands Power Alliance, which wants the lines placed underground. In announcing the EES decision in August, Planning Minister Richard Wynne said the project corridor passes through areas of residential, agricultural and other land use with “significant” environmental value.

“An EES process will provide a robust, transparent and integrated framework through which the project’s potential environmental effects can be rigorously assessed, including in the context of the comparative effects of feasible siting, alignment, design and operational alternatives for key components of the project,” he said. “An EES responds to community interest in project siting, alignment and design alternatives by providing appropriate opportunities for public input.” The state government says the EES will provide a transparent investigation into

potential environmental impacts of the project and provides communities with an opportunity to review and provide feedback received on the project to date. A state government statement said the Draft Scoping Requirements are used to set out the matters that will be investigated and documented in the EES. A copy of the Draft Scoping Requirements can be downloaded from the DELWP website at www.planning.vic.gov.au. Public comment closes Friday, November 27 via email to environment.assessment@delwp.vic.gov.au

State closer to ‘Covid normal’

The proposed meditation hall is to be modelled on this Karen Buddhist temple in Burma. (Supplied)

Buddhist monastery plans lodged Plans have been lodged for the creation of a new Buddhist complex in Mount Wallace as a place of assembly for Melbourne’s Karen population. The Melbourne Karen Buddhist Association (MKBA) has unveiled plans for the $2 million complex on a 32-hectare site on Geelong-Ballan Road, featuring a new meditation hall, dining hall and pagoda. The project also includes longer term plans to process the site’s existing blue-gum plantation and convert the land to food production. The MKBA purchased the property in 2019 with a vision to build a monastery complex

that will assist teaching people more about the Karen Buddhist faith. Plans show the existing three-bedroom dwelling will be used as a residence for two Karen Buddhist monks and a temporary place of assembly for weekly meditation sessions over the next four years, while construction of the larger complex takes place. The proposed pavilion-style dining hall will have seating capacity for 200 people and be used for six annual festivals. The meditation hall will be used for twice-weekly meditation for up to 30 people. A 15-metre tall pagoda would also

$1.14 MILLION FOR

be constructed, as well as a 60-space carpark. A planning application prepared by PLANIT Urban Design and Planning noted that Victoria is home to a growing Karen community, a minority group from Burma that has arrived in Australia as refugees from camps on the Thai border. It is proposed construction of the meditation and dining hall be completed by 2024 and the pagoda by 2022. Moorabool council has not yet announced its decision on the proposal.

Victoria remains on track to reach “COVID Normal” before Christmas with more than a fortnight passing since any new cases were detected in the state. The state recorded its seventeenth straight day with zero new cases and zero deaths on Monday, plunging the rolling 14-day average to zero and the remaining number of cases to just three. Victoria’s total number of coronavirus cases stands at 20,345 and 819 people have died. Melbourne residents flocked to Moorabool and other regional Victorian destinations at the weekend for the first time since the “ring of steel” was introduced in July to stop the spread of the pandemic. Victoria could move to its “last step” out of lockdown as soon as Sunday night, in line with the public health advice. The state is then due to move to COVID Normal when there are no new cases for 28 days, no active cases in Victoria statewide and no outbreaks of concern in other states or territories. The last step will allow increased numbers for gatherings and hospitality while COVID Normal will mean there are no restrictions for gatherings, visitors, hospitality or sport. Victoria’s chief health officer, Professor Brett Sutton, said the Department of Health and Human Services received notification of a positive test result in a previously diagnosed case of COVID-19 at the weekend. “The case originally tested positive in July and was cleared in August,” he said. “This result is thought to be persistent shedding and not a new infection. Benjamin Millar

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MELTON & BACCHUS MARSH KINDERGARTENS

Steve McGhie MP LABOR MEMBER FOR MELTON 3 Alexandra Street, Melton VIC 3337 E: Stephen.McGhie@parliament.vic.gov.au P: 9743 9825 Authorised by S McGhie, 3 Alexandra Street, Melton. Funded from Parliamentary budget.

5 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020


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Teen charged A Cobblebank teen is one of six charged following an alleged crime spree in the western suburbs on Friday evening. The alleged incidents occurred in Maribyrnong, Footscray and West Footscray between 5.15pm and 8.20pm. Six teens were arrested after dumping a stolen car in Sunshine. The 16-year-old from Cobblebank was charged with theft of motor vehicle and bailed to appear at a children’s court.

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Hard waste collections City of Melton homeowners and renters are being reminded to book their hard waste collection online by December 11 for collection before Christmas. People going to the Melton Recycling Facility should be aware that there are some safety measures in place.

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Christmas appeal

Emily, Isabella, Evan and Lucas. (Bryan Ross)

Looks a lot like Christmas Christmas is around the corner and the Caroline Springs Scouts troop is selling freshly cut trees in time for the festive season. The 1st Caroline Springs Scouts group will be selling Christmas trees from November 28. Orders are being taken for trees between 1.5 metres and 2.5 metres tall but special orders for bigger trees are also available. Scout leader Claire Mouser said proceeds will go towards equipment, supplies and maintenance of the group’s scout hall. “With COVID, we removed membership fees to make it easier for families [but] that means the group had no income this year,’’ she said.

“We have only recently returned to face-to-face membership but the group still has overheads to pay. “This year, the Christmas Tree drive will be our only source of fundraising.” Trees, from $55 to $75 each, can be ordered at the Scout hall at 115 Tenterfield Drive, Burnside Heights between 10am and 2pm. Delivery in Brimbank or Melton is also available. For another $20, the Scouts group will come and collect and dispose of trees in January. Orders: www.trybooking.com/BMODG

The Moorabool Shire CASI’s Local Support Network is collecting donations to be distributed to Moorabool residents in need. Donations of non-perishable food items and Christmas items, as well as toiletries and essential items can be donated at all Moorabool libraries and via the mobile library, Neighbours Place in Bacchus Marsh, Foodworks Bacchus Marsh, Bendigo Community Bank Bacchus Marsh and Ballan and District Community Bank. FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Melton & Moorabool Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

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Water supply secured By Benjamin Millar Melton’s summer water supplies have been secured following completion of a major upgrade to a key piece of infrastructure. Western Water has completed upgrades to the 35-million litre Minns Road tank on schedule, despite significant limitations on activity under the state government’s strict COVIDSafe requirements. The site is a key source of supply to customers in Melton when demand increases over the summer months. Western Water chief operating officer Graham Holt said stage three and four coronavirus restrictions in Victoria posed a challenge, particularly as the measures included a reduction to the number of workers allowed on site. He said that Western Water acted quickly to secure an exception under critical and essential infrastructure rules from the Department of Land, Environment, Water and Planning (DELWP), which allowed works to proceed. “I’m really proud of our efforts to get this essential work completed, especially given the challenges of operating during the pandemic,” he said. Mr Holt said many of the customers in Melton rely on this source of supply, especially during the summer months. “It’s a testament to the hard work of our staff that we were able to adapt so quickly to get these absolutely critical works finished on time.” Refilling of the 35 million litre tank began last week, and the site will shortly become fully operational. Mr Holt said the upgrade ensures security of supply for Melton throughout the summer months and beyond.

Free walking groups have resumed. (Supplied)

Stepping out Put your best foot forward by joining one of the free walking groups that are being held right across Melton. More than 1200 Heart Foundation Walking Groups nationwide went into hiatus during the lengthy coronavirus lockdown, but are now back up and running to help people build up fitness and stay connected with their community. The groups are operating under COVIDSafe guidelines so walkers can enjoy outdoor exercise in the company of others safely. Lapsed walkers and complete beginners are welcome to join any of the number of groups across the area. Groups are available in Melton, Melton South, Melton West, Kurunjang, Taylors Hill, Caroline Springs, Fraser Rise and Bacchus Marsh. Regular walkers can join the Walker Recognition Scheme, which rewards group walking milestones with certificates, incentives and discounts on Heart Foundation merchandise. Details: melton.vic.gov.au/walking Benjamin Millar Western Water asset engineer William on site during construction of the tank. (Supplied)

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Councillor breaks new ground By Benjamin Millar A proud Wiradjuri woman who grew up in Melbourne’s western suburbs has set her sights on being a strong voice for her community as Melton’s first Indigenous councillor. Ashleigh Vendanberg, a registered nurse who works on a surgical ward, joins Julie Shannon and Moira Deeming as the fresh faces on council following the recent local government election. The mother or two, who was elected to represent Coburn ward, said she is proud to be breaking new ground as a Wiradjuri woman in local government. “My mother is Wiradjuri and as a child she was taken from her family as she was deemed ‘half-caste’ and placed in the Ballarat Orphanage in an event now known as the Stolen Generation,” she said. “Today’s Australia is vastly different to the world my mother was raised in – the wonderful people of Melton have further proven that by supporting me in my council candidacy.” Cr Vendanberg said she is proud to be representing the people of Melton, a place that has grown dear to her heart. “My motivation to run for council was to continue to help my community by being a strong voice and work towards building a healthy, safe and strong community,” she said. Julie Shannon is another new councillor representing Coburn ward. The wife, mother and grandmother said she has developed life experiences in small business, education, retail, hospitality, not-for-profit and faith-based activities. “I live, work and volunteer in Coburn ward, Melton and I feel my experience has taught me a lot about the needs within our community,” she said. “I am a good listener and enjoy getting to know people from all walks of life.”

Clockwise from above: Cr Ashleigh Vendanberg with her partner, mother and two children; Cr Julie Shannon; Cr Moira Deeming (Pictures: Supplied)

Cr Shannon said she loves that the area is diverse yet people have a ‘look after each other’ attitude. “When the chips are down, I have seen so many community members rally together to support others they don’t even know,” she said. “We should be very proud of the name ‘Melton’, we are awesome people.”

Moira Deeming joins the council as a Watts ward representative. The teacher, researcher and mother of four children said she became a councillor to serve the community and help improve council services. She intends to lobby state government to fund the planning, building and running of Melton Hospital as well as other projects such

as road upgrades and bike paths. She wants to avoid rate rises and to provide better value for money, making sure that there are transparent, objective, fair standards for the allocation of funds for community projects. “I think we need to make sure our services keep up with and plan well for our growing population.”

Cr Ally Munari; Cr Moira Berry; Cr Rod Ward. (Pictures: Supplied)

Protecting Moorabool’s character Moorabool’s three new councillors have hit the ground running in their bid to keep the area’s charms while accommodating its rapid growth. Ally Munari, Moira Berry and Rod Ward are all familiar faces around the community, but each has taken the next step as a local government representative. Cr Munari was elected in the Woodlands ward following a three-way tussle for the role. The farm owner, local business owner and parent to three children said she loves helping people and was inspired to do more for her region after volunteering within local committees. “I want people to love living in the Moorabool Shire and I want them to feel looked after,” she said. “My key priorities are listening to what the people want and to try my best to action those

wishes.” Cr Munari identified safer roads and footpaths, youth services, rubbish removal and maintenance of public facilities as primary issues, along with the fight against new overhead transmission lines and toxic soil dumping. “I believe in a fair, equitable and transparent approach in council, I also want to dissect the rates system and understand its flaws,” she said. “I am very excited to receive this role and I am ready to hit the ground running.” Moira Berry, who has lived in Darley for more than 20 years, is one of East Moorabool ward’s two new councillors. The mother of two and grandmother of three said she loved the area and wants to ensure Moorabool remains a safe and great place to live. “I love volunteering and have done in the

8 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020

shire since moving here in 1998, on various committees, including tourism, business and school committees,” she said. “Protecting our boundaries from inappropriate businesses intruding too close to our rural towns is a priority for me.” Cr Berry said locals have been crying out for years for an indoor aquatic centre, so this is also a major priority. She also wants to make sure there is a focus on mental health and community wellbeing, particularly coming out of COVID-19 lockdown. “I believe we will need more resources easily accessible, a dedicated centre to support people would be ideal.” Cr Berry said she would like to see the towns continue to grow, but still maintain that rural feel. This focus was shared by fellow new East

Moorabool ward councillor Rod Ward. Cr Ward said he has been living in the area for a long time and is very passionate about the community. He said Moorabool’s location as a bridge between the city and regional Victoria, close to two airports and ports, makes it a strategically important area. “We’ve got some really growing towns, but have also got some wonderful national parks and some outstanding landscapes,” he said. “Balancing that growth with the stuff that makes Bacchus Marsh and Moorabool great is the key challenge. “We want to understand and appreciate that growth, but we also want to make sure we don’t do it at the cost of what makes the area so wonderful.” Benjamin Millar


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The men of Happy Sad Man: Grant (main), Jake, John, Ivan with son Max, and David. (Pictures: Shannon Glasson, Ben McNamara and Genevieve Bailey) Top right: Happy Sad Man creator Genevieve Bailey. (Jacob Williams)

Become a lifelong learner By Benjamin Millar Melton’s annual festival celebrating lifelong learning will kick off with something for everyone later this week. Launching on November 19 and running across four days, the City of Melton Lifelong Learning Festival provides an eclectic online celebration of learning suitable for all ages, abilities and interests. From pastry making, drawing, and sewing to video editing and finding your dream career, the festival will feature more than 50 free events. Highlights include planting for spring and summer with TV gardener Vasili Kanidiadis, a livestreamed lunch with former MasterChef contestant Tim Bone and a live talk on resilience by world martial arts champion Nadine Champion. There will also be a screening of award-winning Australian film Happy Sad Man, an uplifting insight into the lives of five very different Australian men. Director Genevieve Bailey and some of the Happy Sad Man cast will join in after the screening for a candid Q&A session about the making of the film and mental health challenges facing Australian men. Melton council chief executive Kelvin Tori said the festival offers residents of all ages a great opportunity to expand their interests and learn something new. “Learning a new skill is something that will stay with you for life,” he said. “Whether it’s increasing your tech knowledge or trying a craft activity, it’s a great way to keep your mind active and even start a new hobby.”

World martial arts champion Nadine Champion will talk about resilience. Right: Learn about planting for spring and summer with TV gardener Vasili Kanidiadis. (Pictures: Supplied)

Mr Tori said that many of the activities on offer will continue beyond the festival, opening up new possibilities for building friendships and ongoing learning. “I’d encourage everyone to take a look at the program and challenge yourself to try something new or learn more about something you’re passionate about.” Free bookings can be made via meltonlearning.com.au/festival. 9 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020


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Out and about Life in Caroline Springs is beginning to pick up pace as people make the most of sunny spring days. Photographer Damjan

(Pictures: Damjan Janevski) 220697

Janevski visited last week to find people of all ages enjoying the lakeside life.

FROM THE ARCHIVES Star Weekly looks back through the pages of our predecessors

40 years ago

31 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

November 19,1980

November 20, 1991

November 21, 2000

December 23, 2010

Melton Uniting Church Minister, Rev. Graeme Watkinson has announced that Melton may soon have an independent community school with an emphasis on Christian education principles.

A book written by three Bacchus Marsh Secondary College VCE students has been chosen by the state government as a prime example of an outstanding VCE project.

Darley resident protest plans for transfer station

Back to nature: Green groups make a difference

10 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020


Road to recovery

SPECIAL EDITION SHOWCASING LOCAL BUSINESS


Advertising feature

Qualified to make any car hum Dunlop Super Dealer & Melton Total Car Care is continuing to provide top-notch service to get people safely back on the road as they start to get out and about again.

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he workshop also has the top VACC A-grade certification – one of only two awarded in the entire western region of Melbourne, a testament to the quality of service and care owner/manager Daniel Stewart and his team provides. “This is like an ‘insurance policy’ for our customers, who can feel confident that our honesty in quoting, the skills of our mechanics, and our workshop equipment have received prestige endorsement from VACC,” explains Daniel.

The workshop Manned by mechanics who can make any car hum and know just about everything about tyres, wheels, brakes, auto repairs, and servicing, the workshop is also equipped with laser-guided technology for wheel alignments/balancing. The crew can turn its hand to servicing and repairs of all types of vehicles, from European and American to small to mid size American trucks such as Dodge Ram and Chevrolet Silverado. They supply mag wheels to suit most vehicles on the road and can also order custom wheels to suit. “We’ve seen some beauties come through – big old muscle cars and hotrods like the 1932 Ford Roadster we had in, or the 1950 Mercury and a ’57 Chev Belair,” Daniel says. “We love all this because we’re

Daniel Stewart and his team carry out all work to meet high VACC standards. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski)

all car nuts one way or another.” The VACC accreditation guarantees services are done to manufacturer specs, using genuine or appropriate-quality parts, and warranties will be maintained.

Tyres Home to a wide-ranging selection of mag wheels, the tyre department also has all the best-known brands such as Dunlop, Goodyear, Kumho, BF Goodrich and Windforce Tyres.

Window tinting

The business is also a stockist and installer of Century batteries. Price matching is on offer with printed quotes and finance options are available through ZIP Pay/Money.

Tinting is carried out on all vehicles, so with summer about to sizzle and holiday time fast approaching, now is a good time to think about getting car windows tinted to make driving a more comfortable experience. Tinting is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Dunlop Super Dealer and Melton Total Car Care, 161 High Street, Melton. Opens 8am-5pm Monday-Friday and 8am-noon Saturday. Inquiries: 9746 0088 or visit Facebook for more details.

Strict tyre disposal procedures are adhered to, in accordance with high VACC standards.

• Full range of Goodyear, Dunlop • Branded Tyres & all Major Brands including Monsta Extreme MUD, Mud Warrior & Street Series • Log Book Servicing • All Mechanical Repairs • Disk Brake / Drum Machining • Car and 4WD Suspension • Alignments - Car / Small Truck / 4WD • Century Batteries • Wheel & Tyre Packages

accepted here

(03) 9746 0088 12 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020

www.dunlopmelton.com.au • sales@dunlopmelton.com.au

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DUNLOP AUTO SERVICE CENTRE 161 High Street Melton


Advertising feature

All your beauty and hair solutions Launched by Paul Germanchis and Justin Males in January this year, Beauty House Professionals in Melton and Bacchus Marsh is home to no less than 65 top Australian and overseas brands of hair and beauty products.

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stablished to meet the needs of trade professionals, as well as other customers who love all-things hair and beauty, the outlets are a boon for locals looking for quality at wholesale prices. The pair come with extensive business cred, having worked within the insurance industry in the areas of technology, business, operational processes and customer service enhancement. Justin believes their experience gives them the edge as they grow their company. “We both have a passion for exceptional customer service, and will continue to evolve and shape our business to meet needs and develop relationships with clients,” he says. “We listen, adapt and continue to develop pathways to enable us to expand our reach to like-minded people. “Our number one mission is to develop world-class processes in our interactions with people across every channel available. We are bold in our decision-making, and look to prove our loyalty as we expand in harmony with the industry.” The two outlets, as well as the online store, have more than 4000 products on offer, many of which will be very welcome under the Christmas tree this year. From hair straighteners and trimmers to top-notch conditioners and eye-shadow

Paul Germanchis and Justin Males, owners of Beauty House Professionals. (Damjan Janevski)

kits, there’s something here for every woman, man and teenager. As well, there’s a sizeable range of organic and vegan products. Trade professionals will also appreciate the large range of industry hair products, as well as the beauty furniture on offer – from massage tables and work stations to standing dryers and a host of chairs.

Anyone thinking of adding to their salon or setting up a beauty business at home will find solutions at Beauty House Professionals. Business support coaching is also provided, with technically skilled staff ready to answer questions, complete full refits and refurbishments, as well as assist start-ups.

And keep an eye out for a number of specials in the run-up to Christmas. Beauty House Professionals, 1/11 Glenville Drive, Melton; and 166 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh. Open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday; 9am-4pm Saturday; and 9am-2pm Sunday. Inquiries: 0448 784 777 or visit www.beautyhp.com.au for online shopping.

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1/11 Glenville Dr, Melton & Main St, Bacchus Marsh 13 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020


Advertising feature

Let the experts on the job The number of families turning to renovating aspects of their homes has sharply increased during the coronavirus and, while some jobs are relatively easy DIY tasks, others proved more challenging and generally required expert help of some kind before proceeding.

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aterproofing likely falls into the latter category. Anyone who watches home reno shows will know all about the perils of poorly applied waterproofing in bathrooms – and the flawless precision demanded to achieve success. But if homeowners undertaking a wet area revamp aren’t familiar with the complexities of waterproofing, they needn’t worry because the crew at Specialized Waterproofing in Melton knows plenty. As Eddie Butterworth, owner of the well-regarded business for the past 20 years, puts it: “Waterproofing jobs definitely need proven experts”. A couple of years ago, the business added a well-matched string to its waterproofing bow by establishing Western Bathroom, a wholesale tile and bathroom accessory outlet under the same roof as Specialized Waterproofing. Eddie says the arrangement works well, especially in terms of convenience for their customers, whether a home renovator or commercial outfit, big and small. “On the waterproofing side of the ledger, we’re specialists in the domestic and commercial building sectors,” says Eddie. “We waterproof bathrooms, balconies, retaining walls and basements, as well as carry out sheet membrane applications.” “We also do full builds of tiled and sand cement-tiled shower bases, and

the products we use, such as Ardex waterproofing membranes and caulking compounds, are top shelf.” The business, fully licensed and registered with Master Builders Association and the Victorian Building Authority, also has a full domestic builders licence (for waterproofing only). Eddie says Western Bathroom offers timber flooring/vinyl planks and a wide range of quality tiles at very competitive prices. “Our product range includes high quality tapware, baths, basins, shower sets, shower mixers, toilets and kitchen and laundry sinks,” he says. “Anything to do with bathrooms, we have, and we have it at wholesale prices.” Items such as silicons, tile glues, grouts, trims and wedges are also in stock. If a product or item can’t be found in-store, Eddie will source it. An ideas man, Eddie is happy to help home renovators with his expert advice. And as a wholesaler, his prices are always surprising. Specialized Waterproofing and Western Bathrooms/Tile Wholesalers, Factory 2, 142-144 High Street, Melton. Opens 9am-4pm Monday-Friday; weekends by appointment. Inquiries: 9743 2764 or 0414 656 615 or visit www.specializedwaterproofing.com

Specialized Waterproofing and Western Bathrooms/Tile Wholesalers. (Pictures: Damjan Janevski)

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14 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020


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Listening to the bird songs at home Watching the birds build a nest in a pot plant on the back verandah, admiring the flowers in the garden and listening to classical music in the comfort of their home in Melbourne’s north.

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hese are some of the simple pleasures that make life so happy and peaceful for Pam and Elmar Himmelreich, who are delighted to be living together in their cherished home of the past 45 years, thanks to a home care package through Uniting AgeWell. And now with restrictions lifted, they’re looking forward to having lunch with their lifelong friends in their Preston neighbourhood, as well as catching up with their family – including their eight grandsons and one granddaughter. Latvian-born retired maths teacher Elmar, 82, lives with CANVAS syndrome – a rare disorder that causes dizziness and affects balance, nerves and sight. Put simply, the late onset condition means if Elmar stands up he falls down, so he needs to be helped into his wheelchair. Elmar’s home care package through not-for-profit aged care provider Uniting AgeWell, is for personal care, physiotherapy and a bit of help in the garden for Pam, 74. “I’m happy sitting in the afternoon sun in the lounge and listening to the radio and classical music,” Elmar says. “There’s something so comforting about being in your own home.” And Pam is happy too. “I’ve been watching these sweet baby birds in their nest in the pot plant – it’s just so lovely to hear them chirping away.” In the meantime, the retired community worker does the shopping and also cooks, though she does enjoy having meals

Elmar and, inset, with his wife Pam. (Pictures: Supplied)

delivered through Uniting AgeWell every now and then. Elmar is one of the thousands of clients receiving home care services through Uniting AgeWell across Victoria and Tasmania – many of whom are in

Melbourne’s north and west. Uniting AgeWell is now also delivering home care services to some 900 clients in the Brimbank council area as well as those in Hobson Bay and Maribyrnong. Rohan Bond, Uniting AgeWell program

manager West Metro Home Care says with 80 per cent of clients living alone, extra welfare checks and one-on-one visits are being done to ensure they’re OK. Rohan says the upside is many people adjusted their home care packages to buy electric beds, mobility scooters and install ramps in their homes to enable them to live more independently during isolation. So now that things are getting back to normal, they’ll be able to continue living their easiest best lives possible. Clients can also access Uniting AgeWell’s North West Metro Short-Term Restorative Care package – an early intervention program that aims to reverse and/or slow functional decline in older people and improve their wellbeing. Rohan says the pandemic has taken its toll on family carers who reported being exhausted, with a growing need for respite. Uniting AgeWell provides respite in the home as well as centre-based respite. All Uniting AgeWell residential communities are offering respite stays, with a special package offering a three week stay for the price of two. It’s also useful for those recovering from a hospital procedure who need extra care before returning home. The facilities all offer 24-hour clinical and dementia care. For inquiries about Uniting AgeWell home care services, residential care and respite stays please phone 1300 783 435 or visit www.unitingagewell.org

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unitingagewell.org 15 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020


Advertising feature

United’s chase for silverware The excitement is building in Victoria’s west ahead of the 2020-21 A-League season, according to Western United’s head coach Mark Rudan.

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hirteen months on from its historic A-League debut, Western United is gearing up for what should be another thrilling year, on and off the pitch. In its inaugural season, the green and black were remarkably one game away from reaching the A-League grand final, going down 2-0 to Melbourne City in the penultimate match. “We’re hoping to go two better this year and cement ourselves in Australian football history,” Mark says. “There’s the right amount of belief within the squad to go all the way. “Knowing that we were one step away from the grand final last year, there’s no stopping us in terms of our belief – nothing should stop us reaching that next level. “We want to be better; we want to be there on the last day of the season. “Clearly the objective is to lift the cup this season and we want to raise the bar with everything that we do. “We’ve been able to retain the majority of our squad which is a good thing. I think it’s a good thing that the players understand each other.” During the off-season, United was boosted by the signing of young attacker Lachie Wales, who joined from last season’s runners-up, Melbourne City. Mark also confirms that the club is working on strengthening its squad even

Western United is gearing up for the 2020-21 A-League season. (Pictures; Supplied)

further, to give the best chance of winning silverware. “We’re very close to agreeing on a defensive midfielder,” Mark continues. “If you look at the two most successful teams last year, arguably the best two defensive midfielders were Josh Brillante and Luke Brattan, so that’s an area where

we need to strengthen.” United will again play its home games across multiple venues, giving fans in different parts of Melbourne and the west a chance to see attacking and exciting football. Geelong and Ballarat will host multiple games, as it did last season, further building the connection between professional football

and regional parts of Victoria. The 2020-21 A-League season is set to kick off on December 27, with fixtures to be released in the coming weeks. Western United Football Club. Visit www.wufc.com.au or Instagram: @westernutdfc or Twitter: @wufcofficial

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16 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020


Advertising feature

The ideal way to explore Victoria With travel restrictions in place due to the pandemic, people were starting to go stir-crazy – but all that has changed. So there couldn’t be a better time to think about setting out on a touring adventure around regional Victoria in a Prestige Jayco caravan or motorhome.

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holiday in a caravan or motorhome means you have everything along with you – including the kitchen sink. It means never having to really leave anything behind – you have all the comforts of home wherever you go. Just hitch up, buckle up, turn the key and hit the open road. And that’s just what Prestige Jayco salesman Mitch Lyster and his family plan to do. “We’re ready to hit the open road and explore our favourite campsites in Port Campbell and Anglesea,” says Mitch. “We love spending time together as a family, and having our kids, Alice and Lucas, experience the adventure of caravanning is so much fun for us. “We love the freedom a caravan gives to go wherever you want and enjoy different parts of Victoria. It’s great to be able to go fishing, ride our bikes, go for a swim in the ocean and finish the day with a campsite barbecue.” Mitch says he and his wife Cara are also looking forward to supporting regional businesses on their trip. “We buy all our food and drink once we arrive to support local shops and love nothing better than discovering a hidden bargain.

The Lyster family. (Supplied)

“We can’t wait to explore more of regional Victoria – and the best part is you don’t have to go far from home to have a great time” Jayco is one of the leading motorhome manufacturers in Australia – and ‘part-ofthe-family’ Prestige Jayco in Newcomb has a vast range of new and used caravans and motorhomes. There’s also a massive accessories and spare parts store.

All new models of caravans and motorhomes come with a nation-wide warranty coverage through the Jayco Australia network, with an outlet bound to be close by wherever you roam. The Prestige Jayco team invites people to come in and test drive a motorhome and see for themselves how easy and fun it is to drive. No appointment is necessary – just drop in.

Trade-ins on caravans and motorhomes are welcome, and finance is available to approved customers. Prestige Jayco, 182-194 Bellarine Highway, Newcomb. Opens 8.30am-5pm weekdays; 8.30am-4pm Saturdays; and 10am-4pm Sundays. Inquiries: 5248 6655 or visit www.prestigejayco.com.au

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17 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020


Advertising feature

Respite for family carers is vital Caring for a family member comes with many rewards. Equally, it can come with some challenges, which have most recently been highlighted throughout this pandemic, says Casey Hutchison from McKenzie Aged Care.

“A

t McKenzie, we’re family-owned and we understand that family members who are unpaid carers may feel like no one else can do what they do,” she says. “As well, they can put the needs of the person they care for before their own – and they often feel guilty taking a break from their caring role.” However, Casey continues, McKenzie understands it’s vitally important for carers to look after themselves too. “Which is why, as a carer, you can feel assured that while you take some time for yourself, your loved one will be well cared for by our professional and experienced staff in short-term respite. “Know that while at McKenzie, we will care for your loved one as only a family could. “When you choose a McKenzie home, you choose to keep your loved one safe, healthy, and in a secure environment, where they are cared for and cared about. “We will work with you to develop an individualised care plan that incorporates your loved one’s current routine and what they may want from the care they receive.” Luis shares what he discovered about his father’s stay with McKenzie Respite. “My dad was very happy with the attention to detail from everyone, especially

Loved ones are cared for and cared about at a McKenzie home. (Supplied)

the nurses. He was very happy with the activities organised,” Luis says. As Luis discovered, the McKenzie staff take the time to get to know who the residents are and what they enjoy. They ensure everyone is given the best

experience possible during their stay. Respite can be organised for planned holidays, while recuperating from an illness or hospital stay, or for when carers just need some time to rest and rejuvenate. If you’re a carer who needs a break,

Carers, take a break. You deserve it. Consider some short-term respite care at Sutton Park for the person you care for, while you take some much needed time to rest and rejuvinate. As a carer, you can feel assured that while you take sometime for yourself, your loved one will be receiving the best in quality care.

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18 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020

speak to a dedicated team member to discuss how you or a loved one can be supported. Call McKenzie Aged Care on 1300 899 222, or visit www.mckenzieacg.com


Advertising feature

First step to feeling good again Physiotherapist Joseph Louka is the man to see if migraines or neck dysfunction issues have been interfering with a happy, healthy life. In fact, attending to these painful problems has been his focus for the past two years and it’s making a difference to patients’ lives.

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oseph is the owner of 101 Physio, with clinics operating for the past decade in Melton and Hoppers Crossing. He has a team supporting him, each as committed as Joseph to “looking after patients as if they are treating their own mums”. Joseph has had extensive training in treatments specifically for headaches and migraines and has shared this knowledge with his team so that more patients can receive unique help in this area. “Debilitating headaches are common, even more so since lockdown,” Joseph explains. “We offer specific cervical spine treatment that helps to reduce headaches and migraines. “Treatments can make a big difference to our patients’ lives, there’s just no need to put up with that kind of pain - we’re here to help!” The diverse team at 101 Physio has loads of experience in treating all kinds of health conditions besides headaches. Each patient gets one-on-one time, with treatments discussed and activated by the appropriate practitioner for each visit. Joseph has nothing but praise for his team, all collaborating to formulate plans to provide each patient with the best possible outcome, plus provide follow-up. They all love their jobs and find enormous reward in improving lives and making futures as pain-free as possible. As Joseph puts it, “We really enjoy

finding solutions that people may have been seeking for many years. The feedback we get is awesome, and it’s a joy to have such a positive impact. “Most of our patients find us through word-of-mouth, which makes us feel a real pride in our work.” Treatments for a multitude of conditions, include: • Musculoskeletal conditions • Neck, shoulder, arm and elbow pain • Tennis elbow and tendonitis • Repetitive strain injury • Joint, wrist, hand, hip and body pain • Chronic and acute pain and body aches • Body aches and abdominal pain • Strained muscle, leg, knee and ankle pain • Foot pain and orthotics As well as all-things physio, the multi-disciplinary clinic offers podiatry care, myotherapy and remedial massage, as well as Pilates and hydrotheraphy. Lockdown is over, so Joseph encourages anyone now in pain or needing other therapies to take the first step to feeling good again. 101 Physio, Suite 7, 211 Barries Road, Melton West, and 61 Heaths Road, Hoppers Crossing. Open 9am-8pm Monday-Thursday; 9am-6pm Friday; and 9am-1pm Saturday. Inquiries: 9746 6852 or www.101physio.com.au

Joseph Louka and his team are all about finding solutions for patients. (Pictures: Joe Mastroianni)

MIGRAINE AND HEADACHE TREATMENT ALL YOUR PHYSIOTHERAPY NEEDS IN THE ONE PLACE We accept all: • Private Health Insurance (with HICAPS on the spot claims) • Worksafe/TAC Providers (NO out of pocket) • NDIS registered provider • Medicare Care Plan (bulk-billed - NO GAP) • Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) accepted and bulk billed. • Worksite Assessments/ Functional Capacity Tests/ Ergonomics • Home Visits available • Hydrotherapy (Group and 1 on 1 sessions)

7/211 Barries Road, Melton West 9746 6852 61 Heaths Road, Hoppers Crossing 9749 1499 | www.101physio.com.au 12468617-CG47-20

19 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020


Advertising feature

Retirement your way Bellbrook Gardens Country Club in Bacchus Marsh, part of the Country Club Living group, continues to be popular for independent over-55s and retirees, says the club’s lifestyle consultant, Denise Sniegowski.

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ountry Club Living, one of the largest family-owned retirement village businesses in Australia, is well known for providing quality retirement communities. “The Bellbrook Gardens community, visitors and residents are delighted by the bright and happy atmosphere,� Denise says. “They can embrace life and live their retirement just the way they want.� Jan, a resident at Bellbrook Gardens, shares her story. “When considering the next stage of my life, my family recommended Bellbrook Gardens and I have not looked back,� she says. “Downsizing to a quality, easy-to-maintain two-bedroom villa has been perfect for me. “Our Country Club Management goes above and beyond to ensure that we enjoy a wonderful thriving community. I also have like-minded neighbours who are always willing to lend a helping hand. “We have many social activities that we can participate in as much or as little as we like. I particularly enjoy the cinema, attending social events and social walks. I’d highly recommend taking a look!� Bellbrook Gardens’ facilities include a magnificent Community Centre that houses a hairdressing salon, library, pool table and club bar. Other facilities include a gym and

Residents enjoy the bright and happy atmosphere Bellbrook Gardens offers. (Pictures: Supplied)

an outdoor bowls rink. The village, staffed with on-site management, has a 24-hour emergency call system. There’s also a bus to take residents on shopping and social outings.

Denise welcomes inspections, 10am-4pm Monday-Friday, or by private appointment. “Come and have a chat and cuppa with me and discover the amazing lifestyle on offer. What are you waiting for?�

Bellbrook Gardens Country Club, 168 Underbank Boulevard, Bacchus Marsh. Inquiries: 1800 633 672 or www.bellbrookgardens.com.au

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FEATURING ... OUR COMMUNITY

Now you can pick Woolies at Melton South Melton South locals will have access to a fresh new Woolworths this month, as the store opens its doors to shoppers on Friday, November 27, in the new Opalia Plaza Shopping Centre. Woolworths Opalia Plaza store manager David Pope says, “We’re pleased to be able to offer a convenient new store at Opalia Plaza – making grocery shopping easy and more convenient for our customers.” With Christmas just around the corner, David says it’s the perfect time to provide families with this new and exciting supermarket offering. Woolworths’ customers can expect a range of exciting twists on traditional flavours this festive season, with the launch of more than 50 innovative products, including indulgent puddings and show-stopping desserts and convenient ham roast kits. “Being part of the local landscape is very important to us,” David continues. “We’ve been able to create more than 100 new jobs and are looking forward to supporting a number of community groups in the area in the coming months. We’re already proud to partner with the Melton South Football & Netball Club and Eynesbury Junior Football Club for next season.” Woolworths Opalia Plaza’s customers can expect a full-production bakery, featuring artisan bread, a new range of premium stone-baked breads, and made-to-order cakes; and an in-store meat specialist to help decide on cuts of meats and how to prepare, cook and serve. In addition, the store will deliver a big range of fish and seafood, perfect for a family feast. All fresh fish can be paired with the new and free ‘Bag and Bake’ offering, which has a number of marinade options including tomato and basil and lime and chilli fusion. For customers who choose to shop online and

Woolworths Opalia Plaza store manager David Pope. (Joe Mastroianni)

pick up their orders in-store, Woolworths will have a dedicated pick-up zone with designated parking bays for store-to-boot convenience. “To take the stress out of shopping, our new pick-up service means people can shop online

and have their groceries delivered to their car at a time that suits them.” And liquor retailer BWS will be opening next to Woolworths, offering an expansive range across beer, wine and spirits, with plenty of

choices for the perfect dinner drop. Woolworths, Opalia Plaza Shopping Centre, 179 Exford Road, Melton South. Opening at 9am on Friday, November 27.

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21 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020


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SPORTS QUIZ 12. Who is the highest ranked Australian male golfer as of November 2020?

4. Which soccer team failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, the first time it had not made the tournament since 1958?

1. Who was the 2020 US Open women’s singles champion? 2. Name the five English cricket venues that hosted the 2019 Ashes series.

13. Which nation won the 2019 Rugby Championship? 14. Who won the men’s 100 metres at the 2019 World Athletics Championships in Qatar?

5. Which team did the Melbourne Vixens defeat 66-64 in the 2020 Suncorp Super Netball grand final?

3. Which English professional snooker player is currently ranked number one in the world?

Naomi Osaka

15. Who won the 2020 AFL Coleman Medal?

6. The 2020 Tri Nations Series is contested between which three countries?

16. Which team won Major League Baseball’s 2020 World Series?

7. Which country hosted the 2019 FIS Alpine World Ski Championships?

17. Which sailing team won the 2017 America’s Cup?

8. Who won the 2020 Brownlow Medal?

18. Who did Sofia Kenin defeat to win the 2020 Australian Open women’s singles title?

9. Which soccer team won the 2020 UEFA Champions League final?

19. Which horse won the 2019 Melbourne Cup?

10. Which American Thoroughbred racehorse won the 2020 Pegasus World Cup?

24. Who was the #1 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft? 25. A statue of which AFLW player was erected in Melbourne’s Federation Square?

29. Egyptian soccer star Mohamed Salah plays for which English Premier League club? 30. The 2019 Youth World Weightlifting Championships were hosted by which US city?

26. Lewis Hamilton (pictured) drives for which team?

20. Who won the 2020 Women’s London Marathon? 21. Which tennis player won a record 13th French Open singles title this year?

11. Which team did New Zealand defeat in the final of the 2017 Women’s Rugby World Cup in Ireland?

23. The Hopman Cup was held for the last time in which Australian city?

22. Which country won the 2019 Rugby World Cup?

27. Which country was runnerup in the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup? 28. Who did Naomi Osaka (pictured) beat to win the 2019 Australian Open women’s singles title?

Lewis Hamilton 1. Naomi Osaka. 2. Edgbaston, Lord’s, Headingley, Old Trafford, The Oval. 3. Judd Trump. 4. Italy. 5. West Coast Fever. 6. Argentina, Australia and New Zealand 7. Sweden. 8. Lachie Neale. 9. Bayern Munich. 10. Mucho Gusto 11. England. 12. Adam Scott. 13. South Africa. 14. Christian Coleman. 15. Tom Hawkins. 16. Los Angeles Dodgers. 17. Team New Zealand. 18. Garbiñe Muguruza 19. Vow And Declare. 20. Brigid Kosgei 21. Rafael Nadal. 22. South Africa. 23. Perth. 24. Kyler Murray. 25. Tayla Harris. 26. Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport. 27. South Korea. 28. Petra Kvitová. 29. Liverpool. 30. Las Vegas.

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r Installation of three (3) new panel antennas, 0.59m long, on an existing headframe r Installation of new ancillary equipment, including twelve (12) Remote Radio Units, cabling and antenna mounts r Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within the equipment shelter, including removal of redundant equipment and replacement of Remote Radio Units 2. Optus regards the proposed installations as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”), based on the description above

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MOTOR

Kia Picanto is a cute and capable city car. (Pictures: Supplied)

Cute Kia Picanto ideal urban ride By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring Kia Picanto is the smallest car in the high-flying Korean brand’s range. It has been on sale here since 2016 and currently, with more than 80 per cent of total sales, it dominates the – admittedly very small – micro car market segment. Small city cars have historically been poor sellers in Australia which is a shame as these small and affordable economy cars are really all that many urban dwellers need. The primary buyer profile for Picanto will be late-teen / early 20s females, with a smattering of baby boomers taking up the slack. Those at the young end of the age scale typically have a three-point check list – cute styling, affordability and the latest in infotainment technology. The previous model ticked the first two boxes but missed out on the third, a problem which has now been fixed with this latest upgrade. New Picanto is currently offered in two variants, S and GT-Line both powered by a 1.2-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine and either manual or automatic transmission. A third model the GT is expected to be added towards the end of 2020. We don’t have specific details at this stage but the outgoing GT was a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol.

Styling Styling of Picanto (love that name, it sounds like it should mean something in Italian … but doesn’t) is fresh and contemporary. To our eyes the GT-Line variant that’s the subject of this test is just about the cutest car on Australian roads. Given the number of admiring looks it got plenty of others share that view. Although it’s built in South Korea there is the European influence that is characteristic of all new Kia models penned by design chief Peter Schreyer. An upgrade in June 2020 brought a new grille, projector headlights, new foglights, re-designed alloy wheels and rear bumper.

S and GT-Line generates 62 kilowatts of power and 122 Newton metres of torque at 4000 rpm. Both models come with the choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions.

Safety

AT A GLANCE MODEL RANGE Picanto S 1.2-litre petrol: $14,690 (manual), $16,290 (automatic) Picanto GT-Line 1.2-litre petrol: $16,140 (manual), $17,740 (automatic) Picanto GT 1.0-litre turbo-petrol: $18,990 (manual)

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Kia dealer for drive-away prices.

Standard safety equipment included six airbags; enhanced ABS brakes with emergency stop signal; autonomous emergency braking; hill start assist; vehicle stability management; torque vectoring; reverse parking sensors; rear view camera; dust-sensing headlights; rear fog lights; daytime running lights; and two ISOFIX child seat anchor points. GT-Line adds halogen projection headlights; with both the daytime running lights and rear fog lights upgraded to LED. Advanced features such as blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and lane-keep assist aren’t available but, for a first car for new drivers that’s not necessarily a bad thing in that they will learn to get into good observational driving habits straight away. Parents buying Picanto as a first car for their children will be reassured by it achieving a five-star ANCAP rating.

Interior Picanto’s tallish body means there is ample headroom both front and rear for average-size occupants although its length limits boot space to just 255 litres. This is can be expanded to 1010 litres by folding the 60:40 second-row seat backs. Although there are three rear seat belts shoulder space is limited, especially with three adult passengers abreast. Headrests are adjustable vertically, rare in this grade of vehicle. There’s excellent and functional storage spaces including two adjustable cup holders and an alcove for a smartphone at the base of the front console with a USB port.

Engine / transmission The 1.2-litre four-cylinder engine in the Picanto

Infotainment New for the 2020 Picanto is an excellent 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen which, in such a small car, dominates the dashboard. It’s easy to reach and operate with minimal distraction from the road ahead. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both now with wireless connectivity, are now available.

Driving Our test car was the automatic GT-Line Picanto in Astro Grey with red trim making it a real eye-catcher. The tallish body provided excellent headroom and interior space that belied its small exterior. The front seats were comfortable and supportive but the absence of telescopic

steering wheel adjustment meant pushing the driver’s seat back to compensate. Performance from the 1.2-litre 62 kW / 122 Nm engine naturally-aspirated is pretty good with its limited outputs offset by a kerb weight of around 1000 kg. Having only four forward ratios in the automatic can be a drawback in some country driving, but is generally fine around town. Sharp and agile in its urban natural habitat the little Kia had no trouble keeping pace with traffic over the undulating terrain of the M1 Pacific Motorway to the north of Sydney. Only in steeper hills in the semi-rural segment of our test route did it struggle. With SUVs and utes now the focus of most of our road tests it was a real treat to be able to zip in and out of even the tightest of parking spots with ease both by the Picanto’s size but also its excellent all-round visibility. Fuel consumption is listed at 5.8 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle. We averaged 6.8 L/100 km on our real-life test with fuel stops increased due to the 35-litre fuel tank.

Summing up Kia Picanto is a very attractive five-door city hatch car that’s loaded with standard equipment and comes in at a starting price of just $14,690 plus on-road costs with manual transmission. It’s pleasant to drive, works well around town and isn’t too out of place in the country. Its low driveaway price is certainly appealing with its value equation topped up by Kia’s industry-leading seven-year, unlimited kilometre standard warranty. City car punters have clearly already made up their minds on the merits of Picanto with four out of five buyers in the segment heading for Kia dealerships. If you’re looking for a sportier performance the upgraded turbo Picanto GT isn’t too far off.

25 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020


SPORT Chancellor excited by Jets opportunity New Western Jets coach Robbie Chancellor is looking forward to the opportunity ahead of him with the NAB League club. Having been in the AFL coaching system for a number of years, most recently at St Kilda for nine years, Chancellor decided to look for a new role with AFL clubs needing to restructure due to cuts. Chancellor said the pathway system was an exciting one to be a part of. He will coach both the boys and girls under-19 teams in a full-time role. “I have been working in the AFL for quite a while and to be part of the pathways with both girls and boys is an exciting opportunity,” he said. “I knew I was in a little bit of trouble with the cap squeeze. I was proactive and being a young coach, the time was right to look for something else. “The knock on me was I had experience as an assistant coach at AFL level, but I hadn’t

coached my own team … now I get to coach my own team twice.” Chancellor said he had a little bit of experience with the pathway system and the western suburbs through his role at St Kilda. He said the western suburbs potentially had a lot of untapped talent. “That’s the exciting part,” he said. “It’s an exciting area and very multicultural,” he said. “There are some really good players in the area and sport is a big part of the community out there.” Chancellor said his focus would be to make sure the two programs were successful. “The St Kilda assistant coaches in the men’s did rotate through and do some trainings with the AFLW team the last couple of years, so I’ve done bits and pieces. “It’s a great opportunity to get to know the difference between coaching boys and girls. “I want to set the club up as the Western Jets

Football Club and it doesn’t matter whether you play for the boys or girls.” As part of his new job, Chancellor has taken on the head football coaching role at Maribyrnong Sports Academy. “I wish I had the opportunity to go there when I was growing up,” he said. “Sport is an important part of growing up for young boys and girls. There’s the opportunity to work on team work, camaraderie and it helps round them as people. “It’s an opportunity to work with some of the younger players as well.” Chancellor said he hoped to begin pre-season within the next month, especially for the girls who kick off their season in February. “To get them training is exciting for those kids, boys and girls who have not had a season of footy and were doing school from home.” Tara Murray

New challenge for Armstead

St Albans is gearing up for the new season. (Damjan Janevski) 203635_05

Saints eye finals berth By Tara Murray New St Albans coach Brenton Cook is intent on maintaining the club’s standing as a premiership contender. Cook, who is in his third full season for the Saints, takes over the coaching role from Robert Nikolic, who stood down after two seasons as captain-coach. Cook has previously played and coached in Western Australia and New South Wales. “Rob stepped down at the end of last year,” he said. “He’s done some really good work at the club the last two years. “I want to continue the club in the right direction, the direction Rob wanted to take it.” The Saints have climbed up the ladder in recent seasons and were awarded the senior premiership last season. The grand final between the Saints and Yarraville Club was in the balance after the first

The Western Jets hope to start pre-season training within the next month.(Shawn Smits)

weekend of play, before the second weekend was cancelled due to COVID-19. The Clubbers were the highest-ranked side in the grand final and were named premiers. The Saints successfully appealed the decision, after illegal work was done by the Clubbers on the wicket between day one and two and were awarded the premiership. Cook said they were yet to celebrate the premiership. “We thought we were in a good spot regardless of what happened at the end of the day. “We were going into the final in pretty good form having knocked off the Doutta Stars the week before. “It’s not the way to end a final, not getting to finish it off.” Cook said they were keen to take that strong form into this season. Trevor Bauer, who batted at three for the Saints, is the only out at this stage. Cook said

26 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020

he might return to the field later in the season. “He’s having a break,” Cook said. “He has other commitments and travels from Mordialloc, so he’ll see how it goes.” A few former players have returned and will add depth across the club as they look to field three strong sides. Cook said they were hoping some of the younger players kept progressing through into the senior side. “We’ve got some younger guys who are coming through. There’s about three under-18s that we would like to keep bringing through. “Yuvraj Singh is starting to come of age and Kyle Chamberlain played most of last season in the seconds. “Shaun McAndrew is a keeper and batsman. We’re really keen to develop them and bring them along when the opportunities arise.” The Saints kick off their season on Saturday against the Doutta Stars. All matches this season will be one-dayers.

New Wyndham Basketball Association general manager Craig Armstead believes there’s plenty of room to grow the sport in the municipality. Armstead, who has had a long involvement in sports administration, was appointed to the general manager role in September. Having spent recent years working in football at the Essendon District Football League and then Williamstown, Armstead is enjoying the return to basketball. He was previously president of the Melbourne Tigers and has worked for former NBL club the South Dragons. “It’s been a unique start to the job,” Armstead said. “It was four to five weeks without meeting any of the staff face-to-face. “There were several things for me that interested me in the job. Part of that is population growth and the last census shows it’s a big area. It’s growing and it’s culturally diverse. There’s plenty of challenges and opportunities. “I’m passionate about sports participation and administration and I love basketball. My aim is to use my knowledge and experience to continue to build on the WBA.” Armstead said there was a big opportunity to grow the sport in Wyndham on a local and state level. “I’m keen and excited by the opportunity,” he said. “Basketball is underrepresented in the west of Melbourne and there’s opportunities and challenges around that. We’ve got the under-18 championships and the Kevin Coombs Cup at Eagle Stadium next year, which is a significant event. “It’s one piece that will allow us to showcase the west of Melbourne. We want it to be a legacy and use it to help drive participation and awareness in the west of Melbourne.” Armstead said the association would love to get involved with the state’s top competition, NBL1, down the track. Some training has resumed for the Wyndham sides, with the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. Armstead said they were hoping to get full competitions back in the next four weeks. Tara Murray


STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

SPORT

Brand ticks the boxes ahead of AFL draft Calder Cannons defender Cody Brand moulds his game on Essendon legend Dustin Fletcher and he could soon find himself following in his footsteps. Brand is seen as one of the top key defender prospects ahead of next month’s AFL draft ,with many clubs watching the key position player. Essendon has the right to match any bid for Brand, a Next Generation Academy player linked to the Bombers, on draft night. A die-hard Bombers supporter, playing for Essendon would be a dream come true for Brand. “I grew up supporting Essendon and we’re an Essendon family through dad’s bloodline,” he said. “It would honestly be a dream come true to play for the Bombers … but I’m open to any club. “Anywhere would be a dream come true for me to play the sport I love, and do it professionally at the highest level. “I dreamt about it as a little kid running

around the backyard, but I’m trying to stay as calm as possible.” As an NGA member, Brand spent time with Essendon during the pre-season and has been in touch with them during the year. He also had Fletcher, who played 400 AFL games for the Bombers, as his backline coach for school football at PEGS. Brand said he was lucky to have been able to learn from Fletcher. “He has definitely taught me a few of his tricks along the way and showed me how to go about your football on field and off field with game vision, how you can improve your defensive capabilities and one-on-one skills.” Tony Lucas, who coached Brand at the Sunbury Lions, is another person who made a big impact on his career. “I played my juniors at Macedon,” Brand said. “I came back to Sunbury to play under Tony Lucas in the under-18s in 2018. Credit to him, he pushed me pretty hard during that year and probably developed me into the player I am physically and mentally today.”

Brand, who is sitting his year 12 exams, said this year was about working on the areas he could. “I’ve done a fair bit of work in the previous years, hopefully to get my name read out on draft night,” he said. “I took on a training program put together by our high performance manager at Vic Metro. It was a pretty rigorous program. “I’ve tried to show my progression through lockdown. Speaking to clubs, they’ve been asking what have you been doing to stay fit and improving on your inadequacies. “I’ve been trying to tick off little boxes.” Brand was selected for the AFL combine and tested alongside other Victorian players earlier this month. A hamstring strain meant he couldn’t do all the testing. While the nerves have started to set in for Brand, he said his year 12 study was keeping him focused. Tara Murray

Cody Brand. (Supplied)

Rams make key signings

Footscray’s Jordan Buckingham. (Luke Hemer) 203639_02

Coleman joins Footscray By Tara Murray After a long drawn out off season, Footscray is ready for the return of matches in Victorian Premier Cricket. Like cricketers across Melbourne, the Bulldogs have been left off the field, with COVID-19 restrictions delaying pre-season training and matches. Bulldogs coach Allan Wise said everyone had been keen to return to training and get things under way. “It has been a long drawn out off season for everyone, not just in a cricket sense,” he said. “Everyone is excited to have normality after an abrupt end to last season. “We’ve started training and working towards a start date.” Wise said there hadn’t been much player turnover across all four grades, which has proved beneficial with such a short pre-season and limited time to get to know people. The Bulldogs though have one big recruit in Melbourne Stars bowler Jackson Coleman.

Wise said with the competition now only one-day matches due to COVID-19, Coleman was set for an even bigger role. “We had some pressure with injuries last season, especially losing our recruit Jake Reed to an ACL injury. “Someone like Jackson is a mature bowler who has been around for a number of years and has played state one-day cricket and T20 cricket. “He is an experienced recruit which is heightened with only one-day cricket, which is somewhat a speciality for him.” Coleman is likely to play the opening games before heading off for his BBL commitments. He will return to the Bulldogs later in the season. Wise said that period was a good chance for other players to have an opportunity. He said they would take a healthy list into the season, with several youngsters set to take the next step. “Dylan Brasher and Jordan Buckingham are in the Cricket Victoria Emerging Squad and that

is an endorsement of their improvement and continuing to give them the best opportunities. “We’ve got a couple of young players coming through the grades. It’s a good catchment area and we have a good strong list.” The Bulldogs finished last season in second spot, but lost in the opening week of the finals to Melbourne. They were due to play St Kilda in the semi-finals, which were cancelled due to COVID-19. After its win in the first week of finals, Melbourne was the highest ranked team and was awarded the premiership. Wise said they were hoping to have another strong season. “Last year our one-day form was a little bit patchy,” he said. “That format is about match winners and we think that we have them. “We improved last year in the one-day format, but our two-day form was better.” The Bulldogs start their season on November 28 against Greenvale.

The Western Rams are building on this year’s momentum ahead of next year’s Riddell District Netball League season. The Rams, which were formerly known as Rockbank, put together a strong line-up for this year but didn’t get on the court with the season cancelled due to COVID-19. A number of players who returned to the club for this year have signed on for next year. Star shooter Rebecca Hicks headlines those returning, along with Marie Bolitho, Olivia Burrow and Danni Jane Umaki. All are set to play a key role in the Rams A-grade side. Rams coach Nathan Selvidge said they were happy with how things were looking ahead of next year. “A lot of girls from the year before have recommitted and we’ve got confirmation that the girls who were supposed to come back and play this season are returning. “It’s looking like a really strong team. Getting Becca back is a step in the right direction. “She’ll make a huge improvement in the shooting end and the girls from the season before will slide in around her. “Getting the top level girls back like Becca and Deej will improve the depth, so we not just have a strong A-grade side, but B and C grade sides.” Selvidge said it was encouraging for the club that players wanted to come back. The club’s netball program has traditionally struggled, having made A-grade finals just once, in 2018, when they made it to the preliminary final. “It shows we’re doing the right thing,” Selvidge said. “We’re trying to get a good vibe around the club.” The Rams missed finals by one game in 2019, with Selvidge keen on returning to finals next year. “We’re hoping this season to be in the top three teams,” he said. “It’s a step in the right direction.” Selvidge said they were happy with the side, but they were still open to more players joining the club. He said if easing COVID-19 restrictions allow, they would like to start training in the next few weeks. The club is also hoping to get junior netball teams strted for the first time, to help create a pathway to the seniors. They are looking for players in under-9s, 11s, 13s, 15s and 17s. Tara Murray

27 MELTON & MOORABOOL STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 17 November, 2020


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