Star Weekly - Brimbank North West - 3rd August 2021

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3 AUGUST, 2021

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Brighter days ahead

Friends of Maribyrnong Valley, including Maelor Himbury, in action last week. (Damjan Janevski) 243222_03

The Friends of Maribyrnong Valley are making the most of lockdown coming to an end. The group, which conducts regular tree planting in Brimbank and Maribyrnong, have been limited in what they can do during the five COVID-19 lockdowns.

They are hoping now that Melburnians are out of lockdown, they can get the community involved in their work once again. Friends of Maribyrnong Valley’s Maelor Himbury said it had been hard for the group over the past 18 months.

“We’re back out planting grasses. We needed to get out to get some things on the ground,” he said. “The group has worked steadily since early in the year, when we’ve been allowed.”

The group had organised a community tree planting event, which more than 100 people signed up for, before it was cancelled due to lockdown.

Mr Himbury said the group is hoping to hold community events in the near future.

“We have rescheduled one with Keilor Primary School a couple of times.

Hopefully we can do it on [August 14] …

We’re hoping to do a community planting for adults the following Saturday.”

Level crossing set to go

By Tara Murray The Calder Action Group and Brimbank council have welcomed the state government’s decision to remove the Calder Park Drive level crossing.

Last Thursday, the government announced it would remove an additional 10 level crossings, including Calder Park Drive, by 2025.

State government data shows 11,000 vehicles travel through the crossing each day, with boom gates down for up to 21 per cent of the morning peak.

Early investigations suggest the most likely design to remove the Calder Park Drive

crossing is a road bridge over the rail line, according to the government.

As part of the works, the nearby Holden Road crossing at Diggers Rest will be closed, easing congestion and boosting safety in the area.

Action group president Russell Mowatt was stunned when he heard the news. The group has been campaigning for the crossing to be removed for a number of years.

“That is fantastic news,” he said. “There was a study a few years ago and it was way down the list at 194 or something to have it removed.

“I’m just blown away by the news, it’s a pleasant surprise.”

Mr Mowatt said with the number of houses being built in the area, congestion at the crossing would only get worse.

Brimbank council has been calling for the level crossing to be removed as part of the its ‘Fix the Calder’ campaign.

“Removing the Calder Park Drive level crossing is another huge win for our community and our ‘Fix the Calder’ campaign,“ mayor Ranka Rasic said. “With 11,000 vehicles going through the crossing each day, this will save travel time for local residents and commuters.

“Importantly, it will also help improve traffic flow on the Calder Freeway – where traffic frequently comes to a standstill on the Calder

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“The Calder Freeway has been identified as one of Victoria’s most dangerous roads, and work is urgently needed to improve safety, reduce congestion and provide better access and connections to cater for population and freight growth.“ The announcement follows a state government commitment of $50 million to upgrade the Calder Freeway. The federal government had previously committed $50 million to the project.

Mr Mowatt said it made sense for the level crossing removal and upgrade works to the freeway to be done in conjunction.

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2 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

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New voice for Brimbank locals

By Tara Murray A group of concerned Brimbank residents have formed a new association focused on improving the local area for residents.

The Brimbank Ratepayers and Residents Association formed last month with the purpose of advocating for lower rates, less wasteful spending, and increased accountability.

The committee is hoping the association will provide Brimbank ratepayers and residents with a forum to discuss issues of concern, communicate collective views of

the community to relevant authorities and advocate for improved public facilities.

Irene Stokes has been named the association’s inaugural president.

She said the formation of a group like this is long overdue.

“Brimbank is the second largest municipality in Melbourne and there are so many issues of concern to residents,” she said.

“Given the chequered history of the Brimbank council, which was sacked in 2008 and has been managed by administrators for eight of the past 13 years, ratepayers and residents need to get involved.

“It’s understandable that residents may feel overwhelmed but it’s now easier than ever to attend monthly council meetings via Zoom and to ask questions directly to the mayor, and we encourage everyone to do so.”

Ms Stokes said some of the biggest issues the association was concerned about was the air quality, particularly the damage caused by the Kealba Landfill and AkzoNobel, sub-standard road infrastructure and lack of funding for major projects.

She said Brimbank residents deserved better than what they were getting.

“It is very clear that Brimbank is not

COVID -19 business relief welcomed A local business association has welcomed new support for businesses doing it tough due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The state and federal governments last week announced a jointly funded package to help businesses, including reintroducing the commercial tenancy relief scheme to help provide rent relief.

Sunshine Business Association’s Tracy Cammock said rent relief would be vital for many businesses.

“Rental relief has been a big thing we’ve been talking about,” she said. “Some Sunshine businesses have had some trouble paying the rent and the rental relief is welcome.

’’

- Diamond Palace co-owner “It’s the biggest help for local businesses. We just hope the landlords pass it on, as last time a lot didn’t pass it on.”

Ms Cammock said COVID restrictions had limited the assistance the association was able to offer businesses.

She said the association had been trying to ensure that all the businesses were QR code compliant with government rules and regulations.

Vicinity Centres regional manager Andria Carniato said they were committed to helping there businesses at Sunshine Marketplace.

“We’re committed to looking after our retail partners, as we have throughout the pandemic, it’s not only the right thing to do, it’s in our interests.

“We are very grateful for the ongoing support of our retail partners and passionate community at Sunshine Marketplace.”

The new funding package is too late for one Sunshine business, Diamond Palace Seafood & BBQ Restaurant.

Diamond Palace Seafood & BBQ Restaurant has closed permanently. (Tara Murray)

The Hampshire Road restaurant posted a sign in the shop window, saying that the business has been closed permanently.

One of the co-owners told Star Weekly that the pandemic had played a big role in the decision.

“It was a difficult decision,” she said. “It was a combination of different things. COVID, the

lease and rent, it was all too much. COVID meant the business was running as half a business and the rent kept increasing with CPI and we couldn’t afford it.

“The shop has been open for almost 40 years.

It’s a very sad moment.”

Call to ban gambling advertising Brimbank council has upped its war on gambling, calling for a ban on gambling advertisements.

Councillor Virginia Tachos raised a notice of motion at a recent council meeting calling for there to be a phased ban on all gambling advertising in Australia.

She is also seeking commitments to further investigate the convergence of gaming and gambling to ensure appropriate regulation and protection of vulnerable groups.

Cr Tachos said wagering and sports betting losses in Victoria in the second part of 2020 totalled $1.2 billion.

“As we know, Brimbank has experienced the highest losses from electronic gaming machines (EGMs or pokies) for more than a decade,” she said.

“Preventing harm from EGMs continues to be the primary focus for the council.

“However, recent data suggests that losses from wagering and sports betting are now similar to EGMs in Victoria.

“This represents a 44 per cent increase on the same period in 2019, and it is estimated that more than 85 per cent of these bets are now made online.

“Data is not available at a local level, but it is likely that Brimbank residents have contributed to these increases.”

Cr Tachos said while restrictions on when gambling advertisements could be shown had been in place since 2018, they didn’t go far enough.

Tara Murray

Tara Murray

Have your say on the draft plan

We are Brimbank This plan integrates the community’s key aspirations and outlines how Council will work to achieve its long term Community Vision 2040 through our four-year Council Plan 2021-2025 and the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan.

Feedback can be provided: online at yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au by attending information sessions (details on yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au) by mailing feedback to Communications and Community Engagement, Brimbank City Council, PO Box 70, Sunshine VIC 3020

Comment must be provided by 22 August 2021.

Community feedback will inform the final Together We are Brimbank Plan, which will come back to Council for review in October 2021.

For more information visit yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au/WeareBrimbank

263-0721

‘‘

The shop has been open for almost 40 years. It’s a very sad moment

receiving its fair share of government funding. “[A] startling example is the Brimbank Aquatic & Wellness Centre which has attracted approximately $2 million in Victorian government funding towards this project, estimated to cost in excess of $60 million.

“This is appalling and Brimbank ratepayers should be very upset about this. Brimbank residents deserve to have a great aquatic centre but if our rates are funding this project without government support this means either higher rates or reduced services in the future.”

The next meeting is scheduled for early August. Details: https://bit.ly/3x5GQw0

3 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

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-----------------> I N B R I E F

The best way to Experience Brimbank When was the last time you visited Organ Pipes National Park or had a picnic at the heritage-listed H.V. McKay Memorial Garden? It’s easy to forget that there are so many amazing places to visit, and experiences to be had, in Brimbank. Check out our new Explore Brimbank website — experience.brimbank.vic.gov.au — and rediscover all that Brimbank has to offer.

Sydenham MP Natalie Hutchins outside one of the new lifts. (Supplied) Amazing Organ Pipes National Park

Station access improved

• Draft Together We Are Brimbank — a plan to transform Brimbank • Creating Better Parks — tell us how to make Brimbank parks better • Keilor Library Outdoor Lounge — give us feedback on plans to build a new outdoor lounge in nearby parkland • Melbourne Airport Rail in Sunshine and Albion — show your support for a better Melbourne Airport Rail by signing our petition

Heritage forum Learn about Brimbank’s unique heritage and discover some great resources available at Brimbank Council by attending this online forum.

When: Wednesday 4 August, 6–7pm Where: Registration required for this online event Solar and batteries workshop If you have questions about solar power and batteries for your home, join this online workshop to learn about everything from rebates, subsidies, costs and benefits of switching to solar.

When: Saturday 14 August, 10am Where: Please register online to join this workshop

Contact us: Telephone 9249 4000

• Fix the Calder — sign our petition calling for the Calder Freeway to be fixed between the Western Ring Road and Melton Highway • Disability Action Plan for 2021– 2025 — provide input on how we can make Brimbank more accessible • Draft Live Streaming of Council Meetings Policy 2021 — tell us what you think about live-streaming Council meetings

Introducing Brimbank Quick Links Looking for a quick and easy way to get in contact with Council when you’re out and about? Keep an eye open for Brimbank Quick Links QR codes when you’re next visiting one of our flagship parks. Scan the QR code for direct access to: • Our online Report it tool • The latest opportunities to have your say online • Sign up for our monthly e-newsletter, Brimbank View

brimbank.vic.gov.au 131 450 Local call costs apply

Brimbank Chat brimbank.vic.gov.au

station.

The upgrade was funded through the public transport accessibility improvements program.

Sydenham MP Natalie Hutchins said they had listened to the community and their calls for more lifts to make access at the station easier.

“These brand-new lifts, platform upgrades and facility refurbishments will improve access and the public transport experience for everyone – from parents with prams to those with accessibility needs.. These changes will also make it easier for pedestrians to cross the train line and get to the shops, library and services nearby.”

Tara Murray

Stocking a range of groceries from sauerkraut, mustards, smoked goods, European cakes and chocolate and everything in between.

• Rollmops • Zure Haring, • Spekulaas • Stroopwafels, • Chocolade-Hagelslag • Augurki

CHEESES (HARD, SOFT AND BLUE)

Your Councillors are always happy to hear from you Cr Victoria Borg Cr Sarah Branton Cr Thuy Dang Cr Sam David JP Cr Maria Kerr Cr Bruce Lancashire Cr Trung Luu Cr Jasmine Nguyen (Deputy Mayor) Cr Jae Papalia Cr Ranka Rasic (Mayor) Cr Virginia Tachos

0429 365 527 0407 836 064 0437 744 803 0429 355 239 0437 796 630 0429 637 689 0437 826 450 0437 740 042 0437 838 710 0437 861 296 0428 915 671

CrBorg@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrBranton@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrDang@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrDavid@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrKerr@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrLancashire@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrLuu@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrNguyen@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrPapalia@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrRasic@brimbank.vic.gov.au CrTachos@brimbank.vic.gov.au

All information was correct at the time of printing. For latest information about the impacts of COVID-19 on Council’s services visit brimbank.vic.gov.au. For the latest information on restrictions visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au 4 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

03 9307 9969 • SHOP T6 www.watervaleshoppingcentre.com.au

Watervale Shopping Centre, Cnr Taylor’s Road, Calder Park Drive, Taylor’s Hill, With the Big Woolworths Supermarket

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Visit yoursay.brimbank.vic.gov.au to share your ideas and feedback on issues and projects that matter to you. Learn more about projects that are open for comment including:

Upgrades to Watergardens station to make it more accessible have been completed.

The last of three new lifts at the station is now operational making it easier for passengers to catch trains and access the neighbouring areas to the station.

The new lifts, which compliment the existing three lifts, can carry up to 26 people and have back up power supplies to ensure they will continue to operate in the event of a black out.

Other station upgrades included extending the concourse and the installation of lighting, handrails, tactile indicators and surfaces, CCTV, and signage to make the station safer.

There has also been toilet refurbishments to provide better customer amenities at the

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Tattslotto windfall A Braybook man is more than $800,000 richer after claiming division 1 in a recent Saturday Tattslotto draw. The man was one of seven people to share in the division 1 prize on July 24, with each taking home $834,643. The man discovered he had won after finishing a late night work shift. “I was blown away,” he said. “I couldn’t believe it “I’ve been playing for decades, but I have never won division one. So I actually just developed a new system for buying my tickets, and it seems like it’s come through for me.” The man said the win would give him financial freedom and that he would maybe look at buying his family a home.

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REAL ESTATE MANAGER \ JONATHAN BAKER jonathan.baker@starweekly.com.au

Dr Michael Yazbeck. (Supplied)

EDITORIAL

COVID recovery grants Brimbank community groups, organisations and youth initiatives are being encouraged to apply for grants to help with their COVID-19 recovery. The Brimbank council community recovery grants will provide $600,000 in grants to be shared between local groups, including $200,000 to be provided for youth support grants. There are five grants categories: recovery grants, establishment grants, community festival and event grants, major festival and events grants, and youth support grants. Applications close September 5. Details: brimbank.vic.gov.au/grants FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: starweekly.com.au Brimbank & North West Star Weekly @starweeklynews @star_weekly

Pet teething problems Greencross Vets has partnered with Petbarn to raise awareness about the importance of dental hygiene in dogs and cats.

The chain of veterinary hospitals – which has clinics in Werribee, Hoppers Crossing, Point Cook, Williamstown, Craigieburn, South Morang and Woodend – is urging pet owners to watch out for the seven signs of dental disease in their four-legged friends.

According to the Australian and American Veterinary Dental Societies, more than 80 per cent of dogs and cats will develop dental disease by the age of three.

Greencross Vets director, Dr Michael Yazbeck, said dental disease was a serious issue that was often overlooked by pet parents who did not realise their pet’s teeth needed daily bushing and a regular dental routine.

“Dental disease is painful for pets and can often progress to a severe stage before the pet is even taken to the vet. If you can’t remember the last time you brushed your pet’s teeth, there is a high likelihood they could be suffering from dental disease,” he said.

Dental disease is inflammation of the gums and supporting tissues caused by a build-up of plaque and tartar, and can cause bad breath, oral pain and loss of teeth in pets.

If left untreated, dental disease can contribute to heart, liver and kidney problems.

The signs of dental disease to watch out for include discolouration or build-up of plaque and tartar on teeth, difficulty eating or loss of appetite, bleeding around mouth, swelling under the eye and pawing at the mouth.

Details: https://www.petbarn.com.au/dental

GROUP EDITOR \ LISA KORYCKI lisa.korycki@starweekly.com.au GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES westeditorial@starweekly.com.au COMMUNITY CALENDAR ENTRIES communitycalendar@starweekly.com.au

Published by MMP Star Pty Ltd ACN 168 220 399 Head Office Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042 Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas All material is copyright to MMP Star Pty Ltd. Responsibility for election comment is accepted by Paul Thomas.

All significant errors will be corrected as quickly as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit starweekly.com.au

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Homelessness in the spotlight

By Tara Murray This week will be like most other weeks for local charity Inspire Hope.

The organisation’s Tamara Carr, along with her team of volunteers, will be offering support to people sleeping rough in Melbourne’s west, providing basics like food and clothing, and helping them get to appointments.

But this week is also Homelessness Week, with Ms Carr keen to use the opportunity to advocate for everyone to work together to end homelessness once and for all.

Ms Carr said that most homelessness is hidden.

“Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen an increase in people sleeping rough,” she said.

“But we know that there are a lot more people who are sleeping on couches and living in overcrowded housing.

“Without adequate housing and support, we may be seeing some of these people sleeping rough in the next six to 12 months.”

Ms Carr said more resources were needed in Melbourne’s west.

Inspire Hope set up a support program in St Albans last year to help residents who were in need.

It has also set up a weekly lunch at the Tin Shed in St Albans.

“We work with a lot of different services, including health, housing and homelessness services,” Ms Carr said.

“Everyone is doing their best but we just need more funding, more staff, and more support, particularly as we continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It just breaks my heart when people can’t get the help and support they desperately need.

“The cost of housing has doubled in the last

Inspire Hope is tackling homelessness in Brimbank. (Damjan Janevski) 235888_01

10 years in Sunshine and St Albans. Some of the people we support just can’t afford to pay their rent, particularly now that JobSeeker payments have been reduced.

“We know it’s a big problem and governments are starting to pay attention, but we need more investment in Melbourne’s west to really make a difference.”

Brimbank council and the Sunshine

Salvation Army are among others who have raised concerns about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has had on local residents, many who find themselves homeless.

Ms Carr urged everyone to take part in the Census on August 10 to help organisations better understand the extent of Brimbank’s homelessness problem.

“Understanding the scale of homelessness is critical to attract enough support,“ she said.

“That’s why we are working with the [Australian Bureau of Statistics] on this year’s Census to get a better idea of the number of people sleeping rough in Brimbank.

“It is completely anonymous, support is available and, most importantly, it will help us get the resources we need.”

West Gate Freeway outbound lane changes As part of Victoria’s Big Build, we’re widening the West Gate Freeway. Workers have separated the freeway exit lanes so if you’re travelling west, follow the signs and choose your lane after Millers Road.

Scan below for video

Choose your lane early: – For the Grieve Parade exit, stay in the far-left lane – For the M80 Ring Road, stay in the two left lanes – For the Princes Freeway (M1), stay in the three right lanes Avoid dangerous merging and weaving across traffic lanes.

If you miss your exit, take the next one.

Find out if you’re affected at bigbuild.vic.gov.au/westgate Authorised by the Victorian t i Government, G t 1T Treasury Pl Place, M Melbourne lb 6 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

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Pandemic takes a mental toll

By Tara Murray The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a considerable toll on the psychological health of staff at Western Health, a new study has found.

Western Health, in a partnership with Deakin University, surveyed nearly 700 nurses, doctors and allied health workers multiple times as part of a study into the impact of the pandemic. The new data found, contracting the virus, putting family members at risk and caring for infected patients were the top concerns for staff.

The study found more than 80 per cent of

staff avoided interacting with their friends and extended family and steered clear of public or crowded spaces.

Three quarters indicated that people close to them were concerned about their health, while almost a quarter of those surveyed avoided telling people they worked at a hospital, with several staff reporting they received a negative reaction when they wore their uniform in public. Despite the impact on their personal and professional lives, few staff considered resigning.

Study co-investigator, senior research fellow Sara Holton, said that many staff reported

positive impacts during the pandemic.

“This included increased knowledge about infectious diseases and infection prevention and control, and a greater sense of togetherness and co-operation among colleagues,“ she said.

The study aims to help Western Health understand the impact of COVID-19 on staff.

The first survey in May and June last year, found that one quarter of staff surveyed reported symptoms of psychological distress, including depression, anxiety and stress.

Dr Holton said one of the study’s most significant findings was that staff who thought the health service had responded appropriately

to the pandemic and provided sufficient staff support were more likely to have better mental health outcomes.

As part as it’s response to the pandemic, Western Health introduced a range of initiatives to support staff in 2020, such as wellness hubs, on-site counsellors, regular staff bulletins and briefings by the chief executive.

“Our study demonstrates the importance of providing targeted wellbeing and support initiatives, especially to those who are pregnant, so they continue to provide high quality patient care for the community,” Dr Holton said.

Six years in jail for attempted carjacking

Andrew Meddings, Duncan Benn and Jason Bonnici will be taking part in the Kidney Kar Rally. (Damjan Janevski) 243112_02

Ready to rally for kidney health Hillside’s Andrew Meddings is hoping Sydney’s COVID-19 outbreak won’t put the brakes on this year’s Kidney Kar Rally.

The rally raises money for Kidney Health Australia to help support kids and young people with kidney disease.

Mr Meddings is part of team Pulsation with two friends, Duncan Benn of Altona Meadows and Jason Bonnici from Tarneit.

Mr Meddings said the trio were looking forward to this year, given the 2020 event was cancelled due to the coronavirus, and this year’s event was pushed back from its original August date.

“Trying to get out of lockdown is probably

one of the hardest things, so we’re just hoping it goes ahead this year,” he said.

Team Pulsation has already broken their fundraising goal of $3000, thanks to 25 supporters.

Mr Benn said tearing through outback New South Wales for charity would be a welcome change from the pandemic-induced lockdowns over the last year and a half.

“We are looking forward to the challenge and adventure of driving a beat-up little car through outback NSW with good mates, especially after the last 18 months Victoria has been through,” Mr Benn said.

Mr Meddings agreed, and said the event was

sorely needed after the current lockdowns.

“Just looking forward to getting out of lockdown and being able to do something, not just sit around and watch everything fly by,“ he said.

“Just trying to get involved this year and hopefully it goes ahead.“ The trio decided to enter the rally in 2019 after the wife of one of their friends, Oden Hickey, was diagnosed with kidney disease.

“We just thought, ‘You knew what, we’ve got a spare car lying around.’ And we built it up, and did the rally [in 2019],” Mr Meddings said.

To donate visit: https://www.kidneykarrally. org.au/my-fundraising/117/pulsation

A man has been sentenced to more than six years in jail following a carjacking in St Albans in 2017.

Qasim House was last month sentenced to six years and three years imprisonment with a non-parole period of three years and nine months, having pleaded guilty to charges of attempted aggravated carjacking, prohibited person possess firearm, reckless conduct endangering persons, theft and handling stolen goods. He has already served more than three years in jail.

The court heard that on the day of the incident, House and his partner Yen Ngo smoked heroin at Ms Ngo’s home. Ms Ngo made statements about not wanting to live and produced a firearm. In a fight for the weapon she was shot in the chest.

House took Ms Ngo to Sunshine Hospital and left her there. She later died.

The court heard that as House was leaving the hospital car park he collided with a car, continued along Furlong Road against a red light and collided with a Toyota Hilux.

House then approach a Mazda 2 stopped at the lights and, armed with a firearm, tried to open the driver’s door.

He smashed the window, but failed to gain entry as the driver drove through a red light to escape. House then walked back to the Toyota, with the driver no longer in the car. When police approached House he drove off. He was involved in another accident near the intersection of Cooke Avenue and Furlong Road, where he was arrested.

Justice Lesley Taylor said given House’s long history of criminal behaviour and drug use she found his prospects of rehabilitation to be guarded.

House had previously been tried twice by a jury on charges relating to the death of Ms Ngo.

Government funding boost for ‘green’ aquatic centre Brimbank council’s marquee project, the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre, has received a funding boost from the federal government.

The government last week announced it has awarded $1.53 million to help the council build an integrated renewable energy system.

The funding will help the council’s aim of the centre becoming Australia’s first zero emissions indoor leisure and aquatic centre.

The centre is on target to be built to world-leading ‘6 Star Green Star’ rating, and is expected to use up to 80 per cent less energy than traditional aquatic centres. The centre will have an all-electric heat-pump system

for heating and cooling, instead of using traditional boilers. There will also be a massive hot water storage system and solar panels.

Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic said the council was aiming for this project to demonstrate the first all-electric aquatic centre in Australia.

“This investment means the Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre will use 100 per cent renewable energy for heating and cooling across the whole centre,” she said.

“This is an important step towards reaching council’s climate emergency plan 2020-2025 target of net zero emissions for council operations by 2030.

“We are thrilled that this state-of-the-art centre will showcase best practice in sustainable design.”

Federal Victorian Senator Jane Hume said improving the energy efficiency of public facilities will help operators save on energy costs and reduce emissions.

“Making these facilities more energy efficient will ensure that operators are paying less for their energy bills while reducing their emissions. It’s a win-win. We need to find new and cleaner ways to power the facilities we rely on and this is a great example of how renewable energy technologies can reduce emissions in energy-intensive environments.”

Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic and Senator Jane Hume. (Supplied) 7 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

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Backing for western station bid

By Tara Murray Brimbank council has given in principle support for a Moonee Valley council campaign for an extra train station to be added to the Melbourne Airport Rail Link.

Moonee Valley council has long campaigned for an additional station to be built within its municipality as part of the project.

The station, which would be called the Western Gateway Station, should be located on the border of Keilor East and Airport West, according to a Moonee Valley council feasibility study.

The location is next to Calder Freeway/ Western Ring Road interchange, halfway between the existing Sunshine station and Melbourne Airport.

Moonee Valley’s study said the new station would improve public transport for residents in Keilor Park and would provide access to areas such as Brimbank Park.

The study said that many people who live near the proposed station site drive to Sunshine train station to park and then use the train.

Hume council has recently written to Moonee Valley council stating its support for the station.

Hume mayor Joseph Haweil said a new station would help fill a coverage gap and would provide better public transport for the area.

Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic said the council had been in contact with Moonee Valley council about its support for the project.

“Brimbank council has written to Moonee Valley city council to outline in principle support for additional stations between Sunshine and Melbourne Airport.

“Brimbank has a detailed plan showing how investments in the west, including Melbourne Airport Rail, can help transform the area into a

21st century city.

“When it comes to Melbourne Airport Rail, council’s focus is on advocating to ensure the project properly plans for the redeveloping Sunshine station into a regional super hub, rebuilding Albion station into a fit-for-purpose public transport interchange, integrating both stations into the surrounding precincts in a way that unlocks development opportunities, most notably within the Albion quarter and delivering long-term rail commitments made in the Western Rail Plan, such as the electrification of the Melton and Wyndham rail lines.”

EPA slammed for meeting withdrawal

Council and local residents are calling for better access in Brimbank Park for pedestrians and cyclists. (Damjan Janevski) 245333_03

Push for pedestrian park access Brimbank council and local residents are calling for a pedestrian bridge to be built over the Maribyrnong River to improve access to Brimbank Park.

Councillor Virginia Tachos raised a notice of motion at a recent council meeting calling for alternative access points for people who are on foot.

She said that when it rained, the existing ford crossings become submerged, meaning the park can’t be accessed on foot.

“This issue has been raised a number of times with Parks Victoria but unfortunately

no funding has been allocated to resolve this access issue,“ Cr Tachos said.

“Imagine if residents could access Brimbank Park whenever they wanted, the café business would have more activity, residents could use the park more, and people could walk and ride along the Maribyrnong River as far as they wanted, even into the city and back.”

Resident Neil Hunichen, who is a keen cyclist, said the park not being accessible impacted people’s mental health, especially during lockdown.

“There needs to be a pedestrian bridge, to

Brimbank goes green Brimbank council is continuing its push toward renewable energy, with more council-owned buildings and facilities now powered by 100 per cent renewable energy, according to council.

Local buildings, sports grounds, community venues, leisure centres and street lights managed by the council are now renewable.

The council said these new renewable efforts would shave 23 per cent off of its electricity bill each year, compared with the last 12 months.

It comes a few months after the council joined the Victorian Energy Collaboration to pool 46 councils’ energy needs, which it called “the largest ever emissions reduction project by 8 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

local government in Australia”.

Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic said the council was ahead of the game on renewable energy.

“Brimbank was the first council in Melbourne’s west to adopt a Climate Emergency Plan with a commitment to net zero emissions in our operations by 2030,” Cr Rasic said.

Daniel Cook Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic at one of the renewably-powered council buildings. (Supplied)

allow that safer access,“ he said.

Parks Victoria district manager Craig Bray said they were aware of community feedback regarding access points across the Maribyrnong River.

“Approximately 600,000 people visit and enjoy Brimbank Park annually and, where water levels rise, pedestrian access can be restricted for safety reasons for an average 20 to 30 days per year.

“The park can be accessed by vehicle on these days and visitors are advised to observe signage and stay out of fenced-off areas.”

Kealba residents have slammed a decision by the Environmental Protection Authority to withdraw its weekly involvement in meetings about the Kealba Landfill hot spot fires.

Barro has been hosting weekly online meetings for residents over the past few months, with EPA representatives at every meeting.

At a recent meeting, the EPA’s western metropolitan region manager, Stephen Lansdell, said the organisation would only attend the meetings when there were key updates and milestones.

“We are still here prioritising the issue regularly and super closely,” he said.

“We’re hoping to plan face-to-face sessions and hopefully, COVID-19 willing, we will be able to start some of those planning sessions soon.”

In an email to community members, the EPA encouraged residents with concerns to contact it directly via email or phone.

Resident Anna Jez said the community felt it was being abandoned by the EPA. “We’re disappointed and feel abandoned,” she said.

“The community has felt that if they set the appropriate standards in the beginning and enforced more compliance on Barro and protected the environment and our health, they wouldn’t have to do these things.”

Ms Jez said the community felt there were still many unanswered questions about the fires.

She said she had sent multiple emails to key stakeholders in recent weeks that had gone unanswered.

She said considering the impact the hot spots have had on residents’ lives for 18 months, there still needed to be frequent communication from the EPA. Tara Murray

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

NEWS

MY BRIMBANK Margaret Hamilton has recently stepped up to become the first female president of the Lions Club of Taylors Lakes.

Ms Hamilton speaks with Daniel Cook about that special honour and what she hopes to achieve in the role.

Tell me a bit about yourself and your connection to your local community?

I have lived and worked in the Brimbank area on and off for the last 30 years. I taught at St Augustine’s Primary School in Keilor during the 1990s and my own children completed their primary and secondary schooling at local schools. We all made many friends in the area, many of whom we are still in touch with. My sons also participated in local sporting groups, playing tennis, football and karate.

(Damjan Janevski) 243490_01

What do you love about the area?

In 1998 I moved back to my childhood home in Coburg to care for my elderly parents. After they passed away, I was pleased to be able to move back to Keilor Downs to escape the congestion of the traffic and high-rise buildings, which are becoming prevalent in the inner-city suburbs.

Here we have all the infrastructure we need at our doorstep – great shopping, community hubs, medical centres and parks – to name just a few.

How long have you been involved with the Lions Club?

I have been a member of Lions for over 25 years but have only been a member of Taylors Lakes Club for two years. I have been warmly welcomed by the friendly members and have been happy to be involved in their projects, both locally based as well as serving those in need nationally and throughout the world – even during a pandemic.

president of the Taylors Lakes Lions Club.

When we meet together as Lions, that is what we are, regardless of differences.

I hope to preserve this ethos and to continue the great work carried out by my predecessors.

What does it mean to be the first female president?

I am honoured to be asked to be the first female

What do you want to do for the club now that you are president?

When I joined Taylors Lakes Lions Club, I was impressed by the efficient way in which it was run and the dedication of the members to serving the needs of the community. I would

like to build our membership so that we can continue to carry out our usual projects as well as some new and exciting activities for 2021-2022 such as our Festival and Market Day in October and the forming a new branch soon for Greening Taylors Lakes.

Have your say parks and roads maintenance Melton City Council is currently reviewing how we maintian our parks and roads. We want your feedback on current standards and what improvements you’d like to see in future.

Tell us your thoughts Parks

Roads

> creek reserves

> footpath repairs

> garden beds

> road maintenance

> sportsgrounds

> stormwater management

> street trees

> roadside slashing in rural areas

> litter collection

For more information about the review, or to have your say > view the parks maintenance display at the Melton Library and Learning Hub or Caroline Springs Library and Civic Centre between Tuesday 2 – Tuesday 16 June 2015 > visit melton.vic.gov.au/roadsparksreview > contact our Operations team on 9747 7200 > email ccsu@melton.vic.gov.au

PUBLIC ART COMMISSION IN CAROLINE SPRINGS Melton City Council is calling artists to express interest in an exciting public art commission for Linear Park, adjacent to St Vincent Way in Caroline Springs.

Create a contemporary site response to our rich history and rapidly changing community.

For full information visit: melton.vic.gov.au/ LinearParkCommission Or email: Victoria@tprojects.co Applications close: Friday 27 August at 5pm Image: ‘Seed’ Rudi Jass, 2006, Caroline Springs *Image is not indicative of any requirements or preferences for this commission

For more information about Council’s services please visit melton.vic.gov.au 9 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

3 August 2021

STAY INFORMED

Mayor’s message

Council services and facilities: melton.vic.gov.au/COVID19

Cr Kathy Majdlik

COVID-19 restrictions: dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus It was a relief to see the State Government ease its lockdown restrictions last week, and I sincerely hope that the state of Victoria can continue to reopen safely.

Quickly and easily connect with us online melton.vic.gov.au facebook.com/cityofmelton Instagram @cityofmeltonofficial

The safety of our community and everyone impacted by the pandemic is an absolute priority and I’d really like to thank everyone who is continuing to do their part by adhering to the expert health advice. Your efforts are critical in the fight against COVID-19 and in helping us return to our regular routines.

For those of you wondering about Council services and whether they may be impacted by the pandemic, as well as any support that is available, I’d encourage you to visit the COVID-19 page on our website, melton.vic.gov.au/COVID19 As you may already be aware, Council recently committed to its highest value capital works program in the 2021/2022 budget.

One thing I’m particularly excited about in this budget is the local roads investment of $70.27 million across the City of Melton.

These extensive works will include traffic lights at a number of key intersections, road upgrades, and road constructions to improve the flow of local traffic in Caroline Springs, Plumpton, Melton, Melton South, Toolern Vale, Cobblebank, Mt Cottrell and Truganina.

You can find out more about the roads investment we have planned by visiting our website. You can also stay updated on the progress of our major projects, including significant road works, by following us on Facebook at facebook.com/cityofmelton You’re welcome to contact me regarding council matters at kathy.majdlik@melton.vic.gov.au or on 0412 584 058.

Watts Ward with Cr Lara Carli Once again, we find ourselves emerging from another COVID lockdown, so I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all our residents for keeping themselves, their loved ones, and in fact, our community, safe during this uncertain time.

I, for one, am in need of some good news, so it gives me great pleasure to share the details about some of the

Community facility investment in

Burnside Heights; Taylors Hill; Mt Atkinson Across the City of Melton, we’ve planned $17.5 million in recreational, leisure and community facility works as part of the 2021-2022 Council budget. These projects will help all residents stay active and connected close to home and will help meet the needs of our fast-growing community.

Community facility highlights in the 2021/22 budget include: • Burnside Heights Recreation Reserve sports field upgrade • Taylors Hill Youth and Community Centre extension • Mt Atkinson East Community Hub construction

To see more of the projects planned for the City of Melton this financial year, visit melton.vic.gov.au/budget

outstanding local projects approved as part of Council’s 2021/2022 Budget.

One of the most exciting initiatives we have planned is the Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve redevelopment project which will see the replacement and consolidation of existing buildings with new community sports facilities and an independently operated community facility.

Developed in response to community feedback, the redevelopment will also include a multipurpose community space with kitchen servery area, storage and bathrooms, female-friendly

change rooms, and a community social space for tenants including cricket, football, netball and tennis clubs.

Also part of the redevelopment will be the realignment of oval two (west oval), including fencing, carparking, landscaping and lighting, along with new cricket nets.

Scheduled for completion in late 2022, this project is funded by Council and the State Government through their Growing Suburbs Fund, Community Sport Infrastructure Stimulus Fund and the Local sports infrastructure fund.

Hard waste entitlements increase Disposing of bulky items has been made easier in the City of Melton, with Council offering the option of an additional hard waste collection to households every financial year.

Waste entitlement options (load and collection limits apply): • Two hard waste collections; or • Two drop offs at the Melton Recycling Facility; or • One hard waste collection and one drop off at the Melton Recycling Facility Both renters and owners who have their bins collected by Melton City Council each week, are entitled to these options at no additional cost.

For more information, visit melton. vic.gov.au/waste

Other great projects to keep your eye on include the Banchory Green Park Revitalisation project, Hillside, and the Parkwood Green park upgrade.

You can find out more about these, and the other significant infrastructure projects planned for the next financial year by visiting melton.vic.gov.au/ budget Feel free to contact me about Watts Ward or Council related issues on 0409 951 020 or email at: lara.carli@melton.vic.gov.au or visit my Facebook page at: facebook.com/Cr.LaraCarli

Your Councillors – Visit melton.vic.gov.au/councillors to find your ward Councillors and their contact details

Mayor Cr Kathy Majdlik

Deputy Mayor Cr Goran Kesic

10 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

Cr Steve Abboushi

Cr Lara Carli

Cr Moira Deeming

Cr Sophie Ramsey

Cr Julie Shannon

Cr Bob Turner

Cr Ashleigh Vandenberg

BEHIND THE NEWS

(Unsplash)

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

A journey to zero waste As councils adopt waste management plans that aim to tackle the amount of waste their municipality produces, there is a growing push for people to think about how they could live more sustainably. A few people in the know spoke with Michaela Meade.

Go For Zero Australian-owned Go For Zero is a zero waste and toxin free store, with products available for shipping Australia-wide. Their mission is to “move to a circular economy where we write trash out of existence”.

Products from the online store are sustainably made and sourced, either from the company, or the businesses it includes on its website, and are sustainably packaged, and delivered to customers in a carbon-neutral way using plastic-free shipping materials.

A Go For Zero spokesperson said people should strive to adopt a zero waste lifestyle “because recycling is not the solution”. “[Recycling] is a short-term option, but we create so much waste it can’t be recycled and ends up in landfill,” the spokesperson said.

“Only 8 per cent of plastic that goes in your recycle bin truly gets recycled.”

The company provides a variety of products that help people maintain their zero waste habits, including starter packs for cleaning, food storage and sanitary products, for the uninitiated.

The spokesperson said the community can become more involved in the zero waste movement “by starting with small changes”.

“Bring your own coffee cup, learn about recycling,” they said. “Because once we know better, we will do better.” Details: goforzero. com.au Positive Feeds Newport-based Positive Feeds is a curated gifting service that showcases products from local producers.

It was born in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, when events industry company Footprint Group Events found itself languishing.

Director Emma MacGregor said that during lockdown “it was obvious the events industry was not going to spring back quickly”.

“We looked around as to what we could use our skill-base toward, along with our contacts within the corporate industry,” Ms MacGregor said. “People were buying gifts online and shopping local ... offering inner west-focused gifts for foodies was the concept.”

Ms MacGregor said the company has a few ways of standing out.

“Positive Feeds is local, unique, charitable and sustainably packaged and operated,” she said. “We are also 100 per cent carbon offset.

“When people gift with [Positive Feeds], they are actually giving three times - supporting our business, our local suppliers and the local charitable causes we support.”PPositive Feeds

Above: Shoppers look for sustainable gifts at Positive Feeds. Below: Elana runs virtual workshops covering all kinds of topics, including cloth nappy use.

(Pictures: Supplied)

is available for hand delivery across Victoria and New South Wales.

Details: www.positivefeeds.com.au/ Workshops Elana is one individual sharing her wealth of knowledge with others to help them achieve a zero waste lifestyle.

Elana runs virtual workshops covering all kinds of topics, including “all things reusable”,

“eco-friendly periods” and “cloth nappies 101”.

She has held sessions with 16 local councils, including Hume, Macedon Ranges, Maribyrnong and Whittlesea councils, where she shares tips and tricks for using and reusing sustainable items.

“I have a large range of reusable alternatives to everyday household items that I show and talk about during a virtual workshop – including how they work, tips and tricks and home set-up ideas,” she said.

“I have multiple cameras so you get nice close-ups of the products - including fit demonstrations during nappy workshops.

“The workshops are very interactive and there is plenty of time to ask questions.”

Elana said she encourages people to complete a “bin audit” when first starting out on a zero waste journey. “[It] means taking a look at your kitchen/ bathroom bin to see what items you throw away the most,” she said.

“Then choose one area to focus on and make the switch from disposable to reusable.

“Once you master that and it becomes your new habit, move onto the next.

“Start small and take it slow, and don’t compare yourself to others.

“We all have different lifestyles and circumstances, so just do what you can at your own pace.”

Details: www. clothnappyworkshopsmelbourne.com.au

Bringing it home Sustainability consultant and zero waste enthusiast Kirsty Bishop-Fox said moving to a zero waste lifestyle was easy for her.

Ms Bishop-Fox said Facebook groups such as Zero Waste Westies and Zero Waste Freebies, as well as mobile apps including Next Door, can help people to begin to live sustainably.

“There is a lot of community comradeship when you align with people who also are trying to avoid waste,” she said.

Ms Bishop-Fox said people should think about what happens to their waste once it’s taken away from their houses.

“There is a significant amount of waste that could have been recycled, composted or repurposed,” Ms Bishop-Fox said.

“Having done waste audits, I am always surprised to see how much usable stuff gets thrown out in some peoples’ bins.

“If we can avoid creating waste, by thinking about our habits and making conscious purchase decisions, it will be more sustainable for our community, our children and grandchildren.”

The Zero Waste International Alliance defines zero waste as the “conservation of all resources by means of responsible production, consumption, reuse, and recovery of products, packaging, and materials without burning and with no discharges to land, water, or air that threaten the environment or human health”.

11 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

NEWS STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Dr Bob’s artistic theatre For decades, Dr Bob Smith has held patients’ lives in his hands.

Now, the retired anaesthetist has gained recognition for his paintings of scenes in the operating theatre.

Dr Smith, 79, was appointed director of anaesthesia at Western Health in 1984 and worked for them until five years ago.

He continues to go into Footscray Hospital for a four-hour session once a week.

Dr Smith, who worked at Sunshine and Footscray hospitals, has been painting for decades.

“After I was divorced from my wife, pretty close to 40 years ago, it was something for me to do when I was home by myself,” he said.

“Essentially, landscapes – and most of them

are Australian landscapes – and portraits or people doing things; colleagues and friends, almost entirely. And family.”

He also does ink and pencil drawings.

“At my house, here, I would have 30 books of drawings,” he said.

“For instance, on a Canadian rockies cruise, up the Canadian coast, I only took pencils and a drawing book – I didn’t take a camera.”

Goya Dmytryshchak

Retired anaesthetist Dr Bob Smith with his paintings of operating theatre scenes.

(Damjan Janevski) 243236_01

Council sets its vision for the community

A new long-term Brimbank council vision for the municipality will focus on people, places and prosperity.

Under the banner of Together we are Brimbank, the council at its most recent council meeting released its draft Brimbank Community Vision 2040, Brimbank council plan for 2021 to 2025 and its municipal public health and wellbeing plan.

The draft documents will form the basis for the council’s direction in the short and long term future.

Mayor Ranka Rasic said the council had set out an ambitious community vision that they hope to achieve by 2040.

More than 1000 people and 20 organisations were consulted as part of the engagement process.

“By 2040, the Brimbank community will be healthy and safe and we will be united through a sense of belonging and pride,” she said.

‘‘

environment and heritage will be protected and enhanced - Ranka Rasic

12 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

’’

“Our city will be inclusive, resilient, innovative and vibrant and our people will share equally in the city’s prosperity and opportunity.

“The environment and heritage will be protected and enhanced and Brimbank’s diverse neighbourhoods and housing will offer something for everyone.”

The 2040 plan centres around four strategic directions, people and community, places and spaces, opportunity and prosperity and leadership and governance.

The health and wellbeing plan will focus on five key areas, supporting improved mental wellbeing, collaborating with the community in addressing climate change and its impacts on health, increasing healthy eating, active living and physical activity and supporting increased gender equality and reducing gender based violence and supporting economic and social inclusion.

As part of the Together we are Brimbank plan the council included a year one action plan.

Among the aims for the first year is providing a detailed report into mental health service provision and the needs for the community, creating opportunities to support newly engaged communities to engage in physical activity, delivering a series of events and activities in consultation to educate and engage the community about safety, develop the Brimbank disability action plan (2021 – 2025), continue strategic pedestrian and cycling network improvements and completing the new Brimbank Aquatic and Wellness Centre.

Tara Murray

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

FEATURE

Winter wellness to warm you up Winter is officially here (and so if the dreaded sniffle season). To help give your wellness a boost, Melbourne dieticians Alicia and Bree from Wellness in Real Life have teamed up with Califia Farms for some warming recipes and their top five tips to help nourish your immune system and keep you energised and fighting fit throughout the colder months.

1. Increase the variety of foods you eat across the day One of the best things we can do to ensure we’re meeting our daily nutrient, vitamin and mineral requirements and supporting our immune system, is to increase the diversity of foods in our diet.

Some quick and easy go-to’s are: Breakfast: Topping wholegrain cereal with fruit, nuts and seeds. Change things up in the milk department with plant-based milks containing added calcium.

Lunch: Spice dishes up by adding roasted chickpeas, a tin of lentils, wholegrains such as quinoa, fruit, nuts or seeds and dressing lemon, mustard and olive oil for the Vitamin C hit!

Dinner: Soups, curries and pastas are the perfect warming dishes.

Snacks & drinks: Coffee breaks are a necessity, right? Try swapping out your OG dairy coffee with a plant-based option.

LOADED SWEET POTATO FRIES WITH CALIFIA ‘CHEESE’ SAUCE (Serves 2) Ingredients

2. Keep up your liquids Being indoors with heating all day can mean we actually become dehydrated quite quickly.

Find fun ways to keep that cup topped up including adding fruit or herbs to your water bottle for that extra zing or try a herbal tea.

3. Nourish gut health About 70 per cent of our immune system stems from the gut. So, try to keep it happy and healthy by including high fibre and prebiotic rich foods in your diet. Foods that are rich in prebiotics include dried dates and figs, garlic and onion, red kidney beans and chickpeas.

4. Pack in vitamin C Vitamin C is a key nutrient in supporting a healthy immune system. It acts as an antioxidant fighting free radical damage in our bodies. Go-to’s are: citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons and grapefruits and vegies like capsicum, cabbage, spinach and broccoli

WARMING WINTER CHAI WITH CINNAMON SUGAR (Serves 4)

Ingredients 3 Tbsp loose leaf black tea 4 cups of Califia Farms Oat Barista Blend 1 Tbsp maple syrup 1 tbsp cinnamon Chai spice: 2 tsp cinnamon ground 1 tsp cardamom ground 1 tsp black pepper ground 1 tsp cloves ground 2 tsp ginger ground

5. Include zinc rich foods Zinc is another important mineral for the healthy development of immune cells in our body. .

Dieticians Alicia Holmquest and Bree-Anne Pagonis have more than 15 years of combined experience working holistically in the field of nutrition, food supply and consumer behaviour. Details: wellnessirl.com.au or follow their Instagram here: @

Method 1/ Add all dry ingredients together into a saucepan over a medium heat 2/ Stir to quickly combine and add the Califia oat milk 3/ Bring to the boil then turn to low and simmer for 4-5 minutes 4/ Stir in maple syrup 5/ Strain with a fine tea mesh strainer 6/ Sprinkle with extra cinnamon on top!

7/ Enjoy in your dressing gown and Ugg boots while curled up with a book in front of the heater!

2 x large sweet potatoes (sliced into fries and soaked in water overnight- reduces the starch and makes them crispy) Corn flour for covering Olive oil Salt & pepper Califia ‘cheese’ sauce: 30g plant-based spread (e.g. Nuttelex) 1 ½ Tbsp plain flour 1 ¼ cups Califia Farms Unsweetened Almond Milk 2 tsp white miso paste ½ cup plant-based cheese Toppings: 2 x spring onions (sliced) 1 punnet of cherry tomatoes (halved) 1 avocado (diced) ½ red capsicum (chopped roughly) ¼ red cabbage (shaved) Fresh coriander for garnish

CALIFIA MINI NICECREAM SUNDAES WITH PLANT-BASED ‘ICE MAGIC’ Ingredients Sundae: 2 cups of frozen banana slices 2 Tbsp Califia Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk Plant-based ‘ice magic’ ½ cup almond milk chocolate 1 Tbsp coconut oil Toppings: Glace’ cherries Sprinkles Crushed peanuts

Method 1/ Place the sweet potato fries on flat trays (not too crowded) and coat in corn flour, olive oil, salt and pepper 2/ Place in a pre-heated 180 degrees Celsius oven and cook until crispy (about 30-40 mins) 3/ In the meantime, make the ‘cheese sauce’. Melt the plant-based spread over a medium heat in a saucepan, add flour and cook stirring for 2 mins or until bubbling. Incrementally stir in Califia Unsweetened Almond Milk and stir over a medium heat until it thickens. Whisk in miso and ‘cheese’ until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

4/ Once the fries are cooked and crispy, place all onto 1 tray.

5/ Top with lashings of the ‘cheese’ sauce and top with pre-prepared vegetables, garnish with coriander and enjoy!

Method 1/ In a blender blend the frozen banana until it forms a bread crumb like consistency.

2/ Through the safety funnel, add the Califia Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk slowly to incorporate the mixture so it’s smooth like soft serve.

3/ Place into a tray, smooth the top with a spoon and freeze for at least an hour (ideally overnight) or until firm to touch.

4/ Before serving make the plant-based ‘ice magic’ by placing the almond milk chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave safe container and microwave until melted and combined.

5/ Scoop nicecream into serving dish, drizzle with plant-based ‘ice magic’ and top with your favourite toppings!

CRISPY TOFU & VEGGIE CURRY (Serves 4) Ingredients Curry paste: 1 onion, roughly chopped 2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped 2cm ginger, roughly chopped ½ tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground cardamom 1 tsp fennel seeds 1 tsp Garam Masala 1 tsp salt Curry: 1 tsp olive oil 1 block of firm tofu (drain liquid, cover in paper towel and press for about 10mins between the bench and a heavy book to remove any excess liquid) 1 ¼ cups of passata 2 cups of Califia Farms Unsweetened Almond Milk

¼ butternut pumpkin, diced with skin off ¼ cauliflower, chopped into small sections 2 cinnamon sticks 1 red chilli, roughly chopped ½ cup coriander, finely chopped 2 cups of brown rice, cooked according to packet 4 naan bread Riata: 1 cup coconut yoghurt ¼ cucumber, finely diced

Method 1/ Place all of the curry paste ingredients into a food processor and process until relatively smooth. You might need to add a dash of olive oil if the ingredients aren’t coming together.

2/ Heat the oil in the saucepan, add the curry paste, cook stirring until fragrant.

Add the passata, Califia’s Unsweetened Almond Milk, pumpkin, cauliflower, cinnamon and chilli.

3/ Reduce the heat to low/medium and cook for around 25-30 mins.

4/ Meanwhile cook the rice and tofu. Slice the tofu into cubes, heat oil in a large frying pan over high heat and fry the tofu until crispy on all sides! Remove and set aside on paper towel.

5/ Mix together the riata ingredients and place into a small bowl, heat the naan according to the pack instructions and cook the rice 6/ When ready to serve place rice, curry and tofu on top. Garnish with riata and coriander and eat with your naan.

13 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

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EVERY WEEK

9, 2021

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Life’s road trip record ed

Xiang Li.

(George Russell OAM)

Inset: Xiang

Australia’ s Deer Park outback has been last week in a new exhibition brought to . launched Self-taugh 5000 kilom t artist Xiang Li mad Australia etre solo road trip e a last year and used to outback inspiratio n for that The trip was her first solo exhib as ition. anyth stayed in a vineyard ing but smooth – not long Li that burn ago car in a sand and was locked ed down outside her She said storm. female empthe trip was abou t self-confid owerment and build ence ing “Life is just . like a road trip, never abou t and it is “It is abou the destination,” experienc t the people we she said. e we met and the On the trip, had.” she colle from her car for whic cted the red dust named. h the exhib ition is The exhib conjunctio ition, which is being run in be at the n with Brimbank council, Hunt Club will Centre in Com munity Deer Park until Marc Arts Details: au/red-du https://creativebrim h 11. st-exhibit ion-by-xia bank.com. ng-

Li’s artwo rk. (Supplied)

Crackdo wn on h oons

By Tara Mur

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Pick up your FREE newspaper from these local outlets...

• • • • • • • • • • •

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•

• • • • • •

•

Albion Federation Residential Village 639 Ballarat Road Albion Sadie Black Cafe 31 Perth Avenue Ardeer Coles Express 1-5 The Avenue (Cnr Fitzgerald Road) Braybrook Coles Supermarket Braybrook 67 Ashley Street Braybrook Central West Shopping Centre 65-67 Ashley Street Braybrook Braybrook News & Lotto 127 South Road Burnside Burnside News and Lotto 15 Westwood Drive Burnside Heights Milkbar 102 Tenterfield Drive Cairnlea Cairnlea Town Centre 100 Furlong Road Cairnlea Harcourts Real Estate 1a/100 Furlong Road Caroline Springs Caroline Springs Civic Centre/Library 193-201 Caroline Springs Boulevard Caroline Springs Brad Teal Real Estate Caroline Springs Shop 4, 242-244 Caroline Springs Boulevard Caroline Springs Ray White Real Estate Caroline Springs Shop 8, 234 Caroline Springs Boulevard Caroline Springs CS Square Centre 29-35 Lake Street Deer Park Smart Smile Dental Suite 4, 20 Clairview Road Deer Park Deer Park Club 780 Ballarat Road Deer Park Bells Real Estate - Deer Park 813a Ballarat Road Deer Park Biggin and Scott Real Estate Deer Park 817a Ballarat Road Deer Park Comm Unity Plus Community Neighbourhood Centre 822-824 Ballarat Road Deer Park Foodworks 803 Ballarat Road

• • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Deer Park Cellarbrations liquor store 809 Ballarat Road Deer Park Australia Post - Deer Park 827a Ballarat Road Deer Park Deer Park IGA 8 Hatchlands Drive Deer Park Brimbank Shopping Centre Cnr Neale Road & Station Road Deer Park Derrimut Village Shopping Centre Foleys Road Deer Park Coles Supermarket Deer Park Foleys Road (Derrimut Village Shopping Centre) Deer Park Deer Park Library 4 Neale Road Deer Park Burnham Real Estate Deer Park 93 Station Road Delahey Calder Real Estate 10/350 Taylors Road Delahey IGA Delahey 260 Taylors Road (Delahey Village Shopping Centre) Delahey Delahey Community Centre 80 Copperfeild Drive Derrimut Sunshine Golf Club 475 Mt Derrimut Road Derrimut YPA Estate Agents - Derrimut Shop 9, 20 Mt Derrimut Road Footscray Wards Newsagency 100 Nicholson Street Hillside Foodworks Hillside 49-69 Wattle Valley Drive Hillside Parkwood Green Community Centre 88 Catherine Drive Keilor Brad Teal Real Estate - Keilor 684 Old Calder Highway Keilor Daniel Real Estate 702 Old Calder Highway Keilor Keilor Community Hub 704b Old Calder Highway Keilor Keilor Newsagent 700 Old Calder Highway Keilor Keilor Retirement Village 868 Old Calder Highway Service Road Keilor Downs Centro Shopping Centre 80 Taylors Road Keilor Park Frank’s Supermarket 5 Fosters Road Keilor Park Ferguson Plarre Bakehouse Shop 32, 40 Keilor Park Drive

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Kings Park Westvale Community Centre 45 Kings Road St Albans Homes Group Real Estate 63 Alfrieda Street St Albans Westside Real Estate 1a Alfrieda Street St Albans IGA St Albans 18 East Esplanade 9364 3388 St Albans Barry Plant Real Estate St Albans 1-7 Elaine Street St Albans Sunshine Hospital 176 Furlong Road St Albans Joan Kirner Women’s & Childrens Hospital 176 Furlong Road St Albans ABC Real Estate 286 Main Road East St Albans St Albans Newsagency 304 Main Road East (9366 2273) St Albans Ray White Real Estate St Albans 308 Main Road East St Albans Raine and Horne St Albans 352 Main Road East St Albans YPA Estate Agents St Albans 67 Main Road West St Albans First National Eeal Estate St Albans 8/346 Main Road West St Albans Danny & Co Real Estate St Albans 352 Main Road West St Albans People In Real Estate 1 Princess St St Albans Stockdale and Leggo St Albans 9 Alfrieda Street St Albans Sweeney Real Estate St Albans 22 Alfrieda Street Sunshine Hocking Stuart Sunshine 134 Durham Street Sunshine Stockdale Leggo Sunshine 273 Hampshire Road Sunshine Thomson Real Estate Sunshine 3/473 Ballarat Road Sunshine Brotherhood of St Laurence Lvl 6, 12 Clarke Street Sunshine Bells Real Estate Sunshine 14 Devonshire Road Sunshine Sunshine RSL 99 Dickson Street Sunshine Barry Plant Real Estate Sunshine 271 Hampshire Road Sunshine GL Lee Real Estate

• • • • • • •

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Sunshine 275 Hampshire Road Sunshine Douglas Kay Real Estate Sunshine 280 Hampshire Road Sunshine Sunshine Library 301 Hampshire Road Sunshine Brimbank City Council 301 Hampshire Road Sunshine Sunshine Plaza 324-328 Hampshire Road Sunshine Sweeney Real Estate Sunshine 4a/282 Hampshire Road Sunshine Sunshine Marketplace 80 Harvester Road Sunshine Woolworths Supermarket Sunshine 80 Harvester Road (Sunshine Marketplace) Sunshine North North Sunshine Post, News and Lotto 69 McIntyre Road Sunshine West Morgan’s Super IGA Supermarket 475 Fitzgerald Road Sunshine West Bottler Sunshine West Drive in Liquor 79 Glengala Road Sunshine West Coles Supermarket Sunshine West 136 The Avenue Sydenham YPA Estate Agents Sydenham Ground Floor, 15-17 Overton Lea Boulevard Sydenham O’Brien Real Estate 17b Overton Overton Lea Boulevard Taylors Hill Taylors Hill Land Sales Cnr Taylors & Gourlay Roads Taylors Hill Watervale Shopping Centre 2-14 Calder Park Drive Taylors Lakes Professionals Real Estate Shop 27 3 Melton Highway (Taylors Lakes Shopping Centre) Taylors Lakes Taylors Lakes Lotto Shop 8 3 Melton Highway (Taylors Lakes Shopping Centre) Taylors Lakes YPA Estate Agents Taylors Lakes Shop 5, 399 Melton Highway (Watergardens Shopping Centre) Taylors Lakes Watergardens Shopping Centre 399 Melton Highway

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14 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Star Weekly Community Calendar, Corner Thomsons Road and Keilor Park Drive, Keilor Park, 3042, or email to westeditorial@starweekly.com.au by 9am Wednesday the week prior to publication.

Solar power Q&A Tune into Brimbank council’s free online-only solar power and battery systems Q&A session to hear answers to common solar-power questions. The event will cover energy use at home, as well as the economics of running a solar and battery system. The session starts at 10am on August 14. Registration essential.

■ https://www.brimbank.vic.gov.au/events/ solar-pv-and-batteries-qa

Through the lens

Santa Marija Festa Celebrations for the annual Santa Marija Festa are coming up at at St Peter Chanel in Deer Park. Join at 6.15pm on August 13 for a church service with choir, and at 2pm on August 15 for the parade and entertainment.

■ Frank, 0407 816 603

Stephanie Mfongwot – a Williamstown woman who escaped violence in Cameroon and is making her professional boxing debut. (Damjan Janevski)

Deer Park probus The Deer Park Combined Probus Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month at The Deer Park Club, 780 Ballarat Road, from 10am. New members and visitors welcome.

■ Don, 0409 191 580

245047_01

Singing group Join the Melton South Community Singers at the Melton South Community Centre on the first and third Tuesday of each month.

■ Sue, 0400 082 413

Melton South Knit & Natter All welcome to join this social crafting group, running at the Melton South Community Centre each Monday from 10am-noon. Bring along any knitting or crochet projects and work on them while sharing tips, learning skills and catching up over a cuppa.

■ 9747 8576

assemble materials using instructions provided. Beginners and intermediate cost $15/$10 concession.

■ 9747 8576

Zonta club meets

Mahjong group

The Zonta Club of Melton meets on the first Monday of each month at Melton Country Club, Reserve Road, Melton.

■ Suzanne, 0417 512 420

Interested in learning to play Mahjong?

U3A Melton has a group who play on Tuesdays at 10am.

■ https://u3amelton.com or 0419 563 016

Tax return help

First aid courses

Melton South Community Centre is now booking appointments for members of the community wanting help with their 2020-21 tax returns, as well as eligible households wanting to claim the $250 Power Saving Bonus.

■ 9747 8576

Melton South Community Centre offers a number of first aid courses for people wanting to learn or renew these valuable skills. One-day classes are held on Saturdays throughout the year.

■ 9747 8576

Melton Probus Club Sewing classes in Melton South Intro to Sewing is now open for enrolments at Melton South Community Centre.

Beginners can learn how to use their sewing machine and work on some simple projects. Weekly classes run on Tuesdays until September 14 or on Thursdays until September 16, 9.30am to noon. The cost is $50.00/$30.00 concession.

■ 9747 8576

Felting workshops Kickstart a new hobby at Melton Library’s free four-part felting workshop. Attendance at all four is recommended, and the first one starts at 10.30am on August 7.

Bookings essential.

■ https://libraryevents.melton.vic.gov.au/ event?id=4368

Card making courses Melton South Community Centre’s term three card making courses are happening in August. Novices can come along to the beginners class on August 9 and August 16 and assemble pre-prepared kits while making some new friends. Those who have completed the class or have some prior experience can attend the intermediate class on August 23 and August 30 and

The Melton Probus Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month at the Melton Dart Club, 63A Reserve Road, from 9.45am.

New members and visitors are most welcome.

■ 9746 0271

Job skills development Hume council is hosting a series of job skills events for people wanting to upskill in their careers. The course covers communication, teamwork, problem solving and technology. The next class is at 10.30am on August 9 at the Homestead Community and Learning Centre.

■ 9205 2760

welcome. Sunbury Neighbourhood House, 531 Elizabeth Drive, Sunbury 12.30-3.30pm.

on the first Tuesday of every month at the Altona Bowling Club at 10am.

■ Elaine, 0415 030 996

Garden club

Free computer workshops

The Sunbury Garden Club meets on the first Tuesday of every month. There is a guest speaker at each meeting, which starts at 7.30pm at the Sunbury Football Club.

■ Cheryl, 9744 1663

Williamstown Community and Education Centre is running free computer workshops on using email (August 4), how to use Zoom (September 7), internet banking (October 6) and setting up a MyGov account (November 7). Workshops are at Joan Kirner House, 14 Thompson Street, Williamstown.

■ Renee, 9397 6168

Senior citizens club Senior citizens are welcome to visit the Sunbury Senior Citizens’ Club on Mondays and Fridays, from 10am-3pm at 8 O’Shannassy Street. A variety of activities offered – carpet bowls, cards, snooker, darts, board games or just a cup of coffee and a chat. Lunch subsidised If you’re over 55 years of age and would like to meet new people, come along.

■ Frank, 0423 392 884

Sewing group The Sunbury Neighborhood House Social Sewing Group meets on the first Saturday of each month to chat, share ideas and sew. Beginners through experienced

Newport Rams Baseball Club will hold free come and try days on Sunday, August 15 and Sunday, August 22, 9,30am to 11.30am at Park Crescent, Williamstown North. Boys and girls, ages 4 to 17 years old of all skill levels welcome. A free sausage sizzle and bottle of water included, and baseball gear supplied for the day.

■ cometrydays@newportrams.com.au

Scienceworks screening Hobsons Bay band

Stop by Scienceworks at 7.30pm on August 6 for an adults-only screening of films about the night sky. The event costs between $20 and $45.

Do you play trumpet, flute or lower brass instruments? The Hobsons Bay City Band is seeking musicians to join the community band. Rehearsals are held every Monday evening from 7.30pm at Newport Lakes Primary School, Elizabeth Street, Newport.

■ Roger Lewis, hbcityband@gmail.com

Lockdown exhibition Head to the Altona Civic Centre for an exhibition on Hobsons Bay residents lives over lockdown. The free Together Apart: Life in Lockdown exhibition runs until the end of August.

■ https://lockdownstories.com.au

Altona North combined probus The Altona North combined probus club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at Altona Sports Club. Includes a speaker, organised trips and outings, and a friendly atmosphere.

■ Lesley, 9369 1785

Indigenous art exhibition Link-Up Victoria is curating an exhibition of Indigenous artists. Link-Up provides support to the Stolen Generations to find lost family members. The next event is at 10.30am on August 5 at the Gee Lee-Wik Doleen Gallery, Craigieburn.

Give baseball a try

Additional needs support MyTime at Tweddle Newport is a peer support group for parents and carers of children with additional needs. The group meets each Friday at 10am during term three in the community room at Newport Gardens Early Years Centre, 51 Maddox Road, Newport.

■ kim.mace@tweddle.org.au

Women’s choir

Diabetes support group The Westgate diabetes support group meets

The Willin Wimmin choir meets Wednesdays during school terms at Church of Christ hall, corner John Street and Douglas Parade, Williamstown, from 7.30-9.30pm. There are no auditions and you don’t need to be able to read music.

■ willin.wimmin@gmail.com

15 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

COMMENT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Health survey needs your input Make a difference to your community in just 10 minutes! Take our 2021 Community Health Needs Survey online.

Unlike most surveys that clog your inbox (usually with the subject line ‘How did we do?’) this is a questionnaire that really matters.

It asks questions about your health. About your experience of health care. And about anything that might be preventing you from getting the care you need, when and where you need it.

In the time it takes to drink a cup of tea or a really good coffee you’ll have helped improve local health services – and as a bonus you’ll go into the draw to win one of three $100 gift vouchers.

Your de-identified responses will be used to help North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network (NWMPHN) plan and fund health services that our region needs.

Combined with other health data, hearing directly from our community helps not-for-profits like Primary Health Networks and governments to decide what the priorities and gaps are to help us design better services.

Recently, health data showed us a clear need for support to help children develop in parts of the Hume Local Government Area. In response, we funded the ASPIRE project that worked with parents and enabled children to see speech pathologists and occupational therapists and attend supported, culturally appropriate playgroups.

In 2019-20, we listened to more than 700 people to help create a ‘Blueprint for better mental health’. The community is helping to further refine the plan this year, so services are better connected and ‘see the person’, not just their illness.

Our other data-driven programs include psychosocial supports (linking people with social groups and practical help, bolstering

(iStock)

By Adjunct Associate Professor Christopher Carter, CEO North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network

mental health), and ‘dying well’ initiatives, which draw on community feedback to improve end-of-life care.

Data, feedback and community connections are also vital to helping us reach groups who find it hard to access services – such as people experiencing homelessness, older people, or those from culturally diverse backgrounds.

In one recent example, we funded community

members to design and deliver a program that successfully encouraged people to get their cancer screening checked off.

So get involved: health care is better and our community is healthier when a wide range of people take part in its planning.

The survey is at surveymonkey.com/r/ NWMPHN_2021_Survey or scan the QR code below. Carers can also complete the

survey on behalf of those who are unable to. Or find out more at nwmphn.org.au. The survey closes August 15.

You could also sign up to be in our ‘People Bank’ – a register of people interested in taking part in activities to help direct our work, ranging from online activities to forums and group work – with payment available for some activities. Visit nwmphn.org.au/peoplebank

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

40 years ago

30 years ago

20 years ago

10 years ago

July 29, 1981

July 31, 1991

July 31, 2001

August 2, 2011

It was a relatively small group of marchers – about 300 – who braved the cold on Saturday morning to march down the streets of conservative Footscray.

Sunshine traders are angry over a Sunshine Council permit which allows the sale of fruit, vegetables and meat on Thursdays and Fridays at the Westend Market complex in McIntyre Road.

Those close to him knew him as a loving family man, a peacemaker who would walk way from conflict.

Brimbank gamblers have poured more than $1 billion into poker machines in the past 12 months, losing $140 million.

16 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

PUZZLES No. 040

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

ACROSS

easy

7 6 1 9 4 2 4 3 6 9 8 7 6 2 9 5

2 9 6 1 7 2 7 3 4 9 1 6 3 3 2 4 medium

8

6

9

5 3 2 7 6 4 2 1 7 7 3

QUICK CROSSWORD DOWN

Bale (4) Tenacious (10) Grave (7) Assay (7) Classified (8) Woody plants (5) Route (4) Head of a gang (10) Mocking (10) Couple (4) Disliked intensely (5) Pool water additive (8) Mass (7) – Avenue, New York (7) Forcing (10) Island (4)

1 3 10 11 12 13 14 15 18 20 21 23 26 27 28 29

No. 040

Station (4) Made right (9) Necessary (9) Odour (5) Frighten suddenly (7) Exclusive (5) Bursar (9) Occupations (4) Buys (9) Nice guy (9) Doctor’s conclusion (9) Painkilling drug (7) Pulsate (5) Defraud (5) Impolite (4) 25 As soon as (4)

1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 14 16 17 19 22 23 24

DECODER

No. 040

8 5 3 5 3 6 7 6 2 8 1 7 3

2

hard

4

8

9

16

15

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

3

2

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

8 9 7 6 2 5 1 3 4

1 3 6 4 7 8 5 9 2

6 4 9 2 8 7 3 5 1

9-LETTER WORD Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once.

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

P

Today’s Aim: 15 words: Good 22 words: Very good

Y

I

C

S

5 LETTERS ABOVE ABUSE ADULT AGILE ARENA CARVE CHEAT COLIC COMMA CYSTS DENTS EARNS EASED EDICT ENEMY GANGS

4 LETTERS ARMY BLAB DUPE GARB GLEN HEMP LICE MOOR ONUS PEND REAP RIBS SLOT SPAR TACT

GLEAM GUILE IMAGE INANE LABEL LAGER LAMER LITHE NUDER OBESE ODOUR OMENS OPERA PARTS RESET RODEO SCALE SCOFF SEATS SEDAN SEEDS

SHUTS SLATS STORY THROB TRUED UTERI WOVEN 6 LETTERS FLASHY INMATE 7 LETTERS AMNESIA HYGIENE

MASCARA MILEAGE MINNOWS SEETHES 8 LETTERS ENTHRALS NIMBLEST STAMPEDE TALISMAN 10 LETTERS AMUSEMENTS OCCASIONAL

06-08-21

1

David Bowie (pictured) and Queen collaborated on which hit single?

2

The crab is the symbol of which zodiac sign?

3

How many ounces are in one pound?

4

Which movie was Pixar’s first feature film?

M U R K Y

5

C L O D S R E M I T U M B R A

Which spirit is used in a pina colada?

6

'All the world’s a stage' is a quote from which Shakespeare play?

No. 040 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down.

NOTE: more than one solution may be possible

S

S

N

R E S

2 1 8 5 4 3 9 6 7

9 2 4 1 3 6 7 8 5 5 4 7 6 1 9 2 8 3

K

A

I

TERM TIES VERY

No. 040

apish, aspic, chain, chains, chin, china, chip, chips, inch, nips, nisi, pain, pains, panic, panics, physic, PHYSICIAN, pica, pinch, pins, piny, shin, shiny, ship, snip, spicy, spin, spinach, spiny, yips

3 7 5 9 6 1 4 2 8

9 8 2 3 7 5 1 6 4

A

P

3 LETTERS ADO AND ANY ASS BRA DAB DEN DIN DOE EAR ELM END ERA FEN GEM GNU HIP IMP LIP PEG ROT SHE SIR THE TVS VAN

QUICK QUIZ

P

3 9 2 8 6 1 7 4 5

4 5 2 3 1 9 8 7 6

5 8 1 7 9 2 6 4 3

7 6 3 8 5 4 2 1 9

6 3 1 4 8 2 5 9 7

4 5 3 8 9 7 6 1 2

7 2 8 1 3 6 9 4 5

B

10 11 12 13

1

S I

E

7

14

7 8 1 4 5 2 3 9 6

6 5 4 3 9 7 2 1 8

1 4 3 2 8 6 9 5 7

1 9 6 2 5 4 3 7 8

2 7 5 9 4 1 8 3 6

8 6 9 7 2 3 4 5 1

P

6

H

O

U

5

30 words: Excellent

5 6 7 9 4 3 8 2 1

8 2 9 1 7 5 4 6 3

9 1 6 7 3 4 5 8 2

2 3 8 5 1 9 6 7 4

4 7 5 6 2 8 1 3 9

3 1 4 5 6 8 7 2 9

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

U

4

Y U S WO I E C Q J Z G T

8 7 2

medium

E

3

R

easy

C

2

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

hard

5x5

1

X L N VMD B K A F H R P

8 4 5 7 2 1 6 9 3 8 1 7 3 9 6 4 1 2 6 8 5 9 7

WORDFIT

7

In which century did Chaucer write his Canterbury Tales?

8

What type of animal is a Japanese unagi?

9

On what date do Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas?

10 Ha Long Bay is located in what country?

ANSWERS: 1. Under Pressure 2. Cancer 3. 16 4. Toy Story 5. Rum 6. As You Like It 7. 14th 8. Eel 9. January 7 10. Vietnam

SUDOKU

17 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING

Advertising feature

Put a smile on your face for a healthy, happier, longer life World Smile Day is celebrated on Friday, October 1. Initiated by American artist Harvey Ball, the creator of the yellow smiley face, this day is dedicated to putting smiles on the faces of people around the world.

Studies have shown that genuine smiling and positive mood is associated with a longer life.

The physical action of smiling can prompt a chemical reaction in your brain, prompting it to release important hormones including serotonin, endorphins and dopamine.

Your brain releases serotonin, a vital chemical in the human body, when you smile.

This natural mood stabiliser is thought to help to control muscles, heal wounds and regulate sleep patterns.

The movement of your facial muscles into a smile also triggers the release of endorphins in the brain. It will release endorphins in a process known as the facial feedback hypothesis. In a study conducted by the Journal of Nonverbal Behaviour, this concept occurs when the positioning of one’s facial muscles feeds information to the brain and chemicals are released accordingly.

Whether it’s a real or forced smile, your brain doesn’t differentiate between the two.

If your mood is low but you smile, your body will process this sensory feedback and actually boost your mood by releasing ‘happy’ chemicals. Facial feedback hypothesis also works the other way around: if you have a scowl or frown on your face, your brain will interpret this as an instruction to release chemicals to make you feel angry or low.

Aside from serotonin and endorphins, which can also be natural pain relievers, smiling also triggers a release of dopamine in the body.

Often referred to as a ‘feel-good’ chemical,

(iStock)

Benefits of smiling

dopamine is a neurotransmitter in the brain that can produce a good mood. Achieving something satisfying produces an increase in dopamine, resulting in feelings of satisfaction, pride, pleasure and motivation.

Ideal levels of dopamine can improve your focus, alertness and productivity levels, and it is also known to produce temporary feelings of euphoria. Dopamine also plays a role in maintaining healthy blood flow and a regular

heart rate, as well as proper functioning of organs such as the heart, kidneys and pancreas.

A few ways to celebrate World Smile Day • Tell jokes to your friends and family.

• Complete one random act of kindness for a loved one, acquaintance or stranger.

• Smile at everyone you come across throughout your day. Not only will this promote your mood, it will encourage them to smile back!

• Give compliments to people as you go about your day. Whether it be praising a family member or admiring a stranger’s shoes, you can brighten someone’s day with just a few words.

• Send a nice message to your friends and family. There doesn’t need to be a reason, you can just let them know you appreciate their friendship, love and support. It will make them feel warm and fuzzy inside!

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18 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

Australian Dental Prosthetists Association (Victoria)

FEATURING ... HEALTHY LIVING

Advertising feature

One-stop shop for health at Watervale Shopping Centre A wide variety of medical services is available at Watervale Shopping Centre, making it a truely one-stop shop.

Watervale Medical Centre can provide diagnosis and treatment for anything from a sore throat to chickenpox.

The friendly team of doctors and nurses, and their support staff, will take the time to listen to you and ensure your needs are met.

Got a toothache? Need a dental check-up?

The Watervale Dental Clinic has you covered.

Also conveniently located in the centre, the clinic offers a holistic approach to dental health care for all age groups.

The team of experienced dentists is committed to providing patients with compassionate, high quality treatment.

Dental special services include preventative dentistry, children’s dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.

Need a prescription filled, or looking for a pick-me-up?

You’ll be sure to find everything you need among the comprehensive range of products and services at Pharmacy Select – from vitamins and prescription medicine to makeup, hair and beauty products.

Not quite sure what you need? The friendly team know their products inside and out and are more than happy to help.

For a little extra TLC, OZ Healing Body Care can treat a wide range of aches and pains, as well as providing relaxing massages, acupuncture and injury treatment.

It offers a calming and quiet environment, sure to soothe you.

Be sure to check out the winter specials on now at OZ Healing Body Care.

A COVIDSafe plan is in place throughout the centre to protect shoppers and staff, and to help ensure the community remains open and thriving.

Visit Watervale Shopping Centre for all your health needs. (iStock)

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www.watervaleshoppingcentre.com.au 19 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

FEATURING ... EDUCATION

Advertising feature

(iStock)

Handwriting vital to literacy

A recent study has investigated the links between handwriting and other literacy skills in young children, finding that handwriting automaticity, or fluency, predicted writing quality and reading skills a year later.

The researchers warn that a shift to “paperless schools” does not have strong empirical support and that it could potentially have a negative impact on students’ literacy.

Dr Anabela Malpique of Murdoch University and Associate Professor Debora Pino-Pasternak of University of Canberra conducted the study, which involved 154 students and 24 teachers across seven Perth

schools. They wanted to understand the effect handwriting automaticity has on children’s later literacy skills.

“A growing body of research argues specific cognitive benefits of handwriting during early childhood, including brain development, working memory, translation of thought-to-script, and overall writing quality and production.”

Despite the widespread use of technology and the current digital literacy agenda, handwriting plays a unique and fundamental role in writing development. Anecdotally described as “thinking with a pencil”, handwriting involves

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20 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

the integration of visual-perceptual, fine and gross motor skills with cognition While it might be tempting to dismiss the importance of handwriting as simply cosmetic, handwriting in fact underpins many higher functions of writing.

The researchers note that poor handwriting automaticity hinders vocabulary selection, ideation and revision, while also affecting motivation, writing development and, in turn, academic success.

Automatic letter writing has been found to be the best unique predictor of the writing skills of early developing writers, theoretically

supported by the notion that the translation of ideas into written text relies heavily on the writers’ ability to retrieve alphabet letters in memory and produce these letter forms efficiently, legibly, and automatically.

The researchers note that their study’s findings, well aligned with recent neuroimaging studies, question the empirical foundations of digital only efforts in schools today.

In a time when handwriting is being replaced by digital writing devices, research is showing that such a move could be counterproductive.

Of particular concern to the researchers were the teaching practices reported.

Year One students spent less than 50 minutes per day practicing writing, which is the minimum recommended, while across the board there was great variability in the time students spent on writing. Writing time and instruction ranged from 30 to 120 minutes per week.

The researchers also note that Australian teachers may be focusing too much on basic skills rather than teaching writing processes such as planning for writing and learning strategies to revise the quality of their texts.

“This may be problematic since research with primary students suggests that writing instruction in early education should include the teaching of basic writing skills and the teaching of writing processes in the same instructional protocol.”

The researchers conducting the research were also assisted by Dr Magda Sofia Roberto, their statistical consultant. Anabela Malpique, Deborah Pino-Pasternak, and Magda Sofia Roberto. 2019.

For more information contact Dr Anabela Malpique, Murdoch University at a.malpique@murdoch.edu.au. or Associate Professor Deborah Pino-Pasternak, University of Canberra at deborah.pino-pasternak@ canberra.edu.au.

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FEATURING ... EDUCATION

St Albans Heights Primary School

Tackling bullying early

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Our students receive highly effective instruction, in every classroom, every single day.

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School bullying is a global phenomenon with teachers often on the frontline of aggressive behaviour. New research highlights the role of early childhood teachers and the importance of correctly identifying and responding to bullying behaviours.

A recent study by Dr Lesley-Anne Ey, of the University of South Australia, and Professor Marilyn Campbell of Queensland University of Technology (QUT), examines whether early childhood teachers’ understanding of bullying behaviours are similar or different to teachers of primary and secondary school students.

A former preschool and primary school teacher, Dr Ey says, “There is limited research on teachers’ understanding of bullying and even less on teachers’ understanding of this behaviour in children under eight years old.

“Existing research suggests students who experience bullying before the age of eight years are vulnerable to the same negative outcomes as those who experience it later in childhood but bullying prevention programs in Australia don’t enter the school curriculum until grade 4. Early childhood teachers are not being trained and supported to identify bullying and non-bullying behaviours.

“Children are rapidly developing in this age period and it is usually teachers to whom they turn to solve their problems.’

Ninety-five Australian early childhood teachers participated in a survey assessing their understanding of bullying and fighting and the differences between the two behaviours.

The study found that although teachers could describe characteristics of bullying, such as the intent to harm, the power differential and repetition; many had difficulty clearly explaining distinguishing differences.“ Professor Campbell notes, “Recognising bullying and non-bullying behaviours is especially difficult in early childhood because

of children’s complex social and emotional developmental processes. The difficulty of correctly identifying bullying behaviours, in early childhood, strengthens the argument for delivering professional training and support in this area to early childhood teachers.“ Both bullying and fighting are types of aggression but, “individuals who are fighting are equally involved and have an equal intent to win, whereas bullying involves an imbalance of power with the person victimised not being able to stop the perpetrator.’

Early childhood teachers who misinterpret fighting, a playful joke, or a singular cyber-fight as bullying may deliver an inappropriate response.

Dr Ey says, “Correct identification of bullying and non-bullying behaviours is important so children are not mislabelled at an early age.”

Source: Ey, L & Campbell, M 2021, ‘Australian early childhood teachers’ understanding of bullying’ Journal of Interpersonal Violence

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Melton City Council is proposing the adoption of the Council and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025 at the Council Meeting to be held on 27 September 2021.

Council is pleased to advise the draft Council and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025 will be available for viewing on Council’s conversations.melton.vic.gov.au/CWBP and at the following sites during opening hours from Tuesday 3 August until 5pm on Monday 23 August 2021: • Melton Civic Centre, 232 High Street, Melton • Caroline Springs Library and Learning Hub, 193 Caroline Springs Blvd, Caroline Springs • Melton Library and Learning Hub, 31 McKenzie St, Melton.

If you are unable to access the Council and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025 at these locations or online, please contact Council’s Coordinator Corporate Planning and Performance on the phone number below to make alternative arrangements.

Any person who would like to provide feedback on any content contained in the draft Council and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025 must do so before 5pm on Monday 23 August 2021.

Feedback can be submitted online at conversations. melton.vic.gov.au/CWBP or addressed to the Chief Executive Officer and posted to PO Box 21 Melton 3337.

For more information contact Council’s Coordinator Corporate Planning and Performance on 9747 7200.

Kelvin Tori Chief Executive Officer 12506409-CG32-21

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G AT 41-45 Westwood Drive, Ravenhall VIC 3023 RFNSA Site No. 3023004 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of 4G and new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: • 3 new Optus 5G panel antennas (0.82m long) at 27.228m in height • 3 new Optus 5G panel antennas (0.637m long) at 26.2m in height • 3 existing Optus 4G panel antennas (2.6m long) at 26.2m in height • 3 new VHA 5G panel antennas (0.75m long) at 24.307m in height • 3 future VHA 5G panel antennas (0.60 long) at 25.2815m in height • 3 existing VHA 4G panel antennas (2.68m long) at 26.2m in height • 42- EJV remote radio units (RRU’s) at 26.2m in height • Ancillary equipment including but not limited to, QHZ PRXQWV QHZ ÀEUH DQG HOHFWULFDO FDEOLQJ replacement of 2 existing GPS antennas and WKH UHFRQÀJXUDWLRQ RI H[LVWLQJ HTXLSPHQW 2. Optus regards the proposed installation as a Lowimpact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the description above.

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3. In accordance with Section 7 of the C564:2018 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Patrick Armstrong of Visionstream at patrick.armstrong@ventia.com or via mail at 20 Corporate Drive, Heatherton VIC 3202 by 16 August 2021.

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฀ ฀ ฀ OTHER RELATED TRADES AVAILABLE 23 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

USED CAR CHECKOUT STARWEEKLY.COM.AU

Nissan Murano ahead of its time

By Ewan Kennedy,Marque Motoring

The 2005 Nissan Murano, 2009 Nissan Murano and 2014 Nissan Murano. (Pictures: Supplied)

selected ratios to give the driver a fair degree of manual control when they don’t agree with the computer’s decisions on the best ratios.

The European-based suspension system provides handling characteristics that are pleasant enough, but the Murano is certainly no sports wagon and may disappoint drivers who anticipate more from its sleek appearance.

Nissan has been in Australia since way back in the Datsun days of the 1960s so there are many well established dealers throughout the country. As is common, these are mainly in metro areas, but the strong Nissan commercial vehicle range means there are quite a few in the bush and country towns.

Murano is a complex car and we feel that anything other than simple service items are best left to professional mechanics.

Servicing and maintenance that have been carried out according to the book can be a strong selling point.

Insurance premiums are usually in the same range as other standard SUVs, so charges are

General Classifieds

1. The proposed upgrade to the existing facility includes: • Installation of Three (3) VHA 5G antennas not more than 2.8m in length onto the proposed new mount; 5HSODFHPHQW DQG UHFRQÀJXUDWLRQ RI WKH existing Three(3) Vodafone panel antennas not more than 2.8m in length onto a proposed new mount • Installation of ancillary equipment such Remote Radio Units, Cabling, electrical works, GPS equipment; and 5HFRQÀJXUDWLRQ RI WKH DQFLOODU\ HTXLSPHQW within the existing equipment shelter.

2. Vodafone regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the description above.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Daniel Hay at Nokia Solutions & Networks on 0420 310 857 or at communityrelations.vha@groups.nokia. com by Wednesday 18 August 2021. Further information may be obtained from the RFNSA website at www.rfnsa.com.au/3023008

CLAIRVOYANT Tarot card readings etc. Past, present, future. All you wish to know and much more. I can help with problems, jealousy, marriage & bad luck. Free crystal with every reading. Anna 0433 135 150 /9354 8440.

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Anyone advertising a puppy, dog, kitten or cat in Victoria for sale or re-homing will need a source number from the Pet Exchange Register and a microchip identification number.

It is now an offence to advertise unless the source number and microchip identification number is included in the advertisement or notice.

For further information, call 136 186 or visit animalwelfare.vic.gov.au

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ANTIQUE ROBES Male and female. Everything is original. French Polish needed. $1000 for both.

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Public Notices and Event

have been sliding about causing damage.

Nissan sets different recommendations for standard and heavy-duty work. If you think a Murano has been used in very hot areas, or used for towing make sure it has been given the heavy-duty service program.

How much?

Expect to pay from $2000 to $5000 for a 2005 to 2009 Nissan Murano; $4000 to $7000 for a 2011 ST; $7000 to $11,000 for a 2013 ST; $9000 to $13,000 for a 2013 Ti; $10,000 to $15,000 for a 2014 ST; $12,000 to $18,000 for a 2014 Ti; and $16,000 to $23,000 for a 2016 Ti.

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What to look for Make sure the engine starts easily and idles almost imperceptibly from the moment it’s running. Ideally this should be done after the engine is completely cold, overnight is best.

During your test drive check that the continuously variable transmission seems to be in the right ratio for the situation.

There were some reliability problems in early CVTs. See if this is recorded in the service records.

Look for oil leaks from engine, CVT and transfer-case joints.

Check the complete interior for signs of damage caused by bored kids.

Also look at the luggage area in case things

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General Notices

pretty reasonable. There isn’t a huge variation from company to company. While we say it pays to shop around, make sure you compare like for like. It’s also wise to have a long history with one insurer as this may stand you in good stead if there’s a marginal claim.

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Nissan Murano SUV was ahead of its time in styling and didn’t sell as well as it deserved in this country. But times have changed and these days many SUVs and crossovers have smoother lines that look quite swish.

Murano has stretch-out room for four adults.

Three grown-ups in the back works fine if they aren’t overly broad in the beam. Four have stretch out space.

As a real bonus the flat floor at the rear seats makes life easy for the person seated in the centre. Too often they have to sit with their legs splayed around a central tunnel, but not in the big Nissan.

The first Muranos arrived Down Under in September 2005. They gained strong acceptance by experts and some potential buyers because they were powered by a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine based on that in many upmarket Nissans. This gave plenty of performance and made Murano quicker, smoother and more refined than most others in this class with fourcylinder power.

The second-generation Murano, introduced here in January 2009, carried the same overall theme as the original shape.

However, it sat on a new platform that gave it added rigidity and a quieter ride. Seating was even more spacious and the boot had significantly more volume.

The 3.5 V6 was reworked to give it more power and torque. Its excellent smoothness continued to impress.

The second generation has an emphasis on a luxury look and feel, making it a complete move away from the sort-of sporty appearance of the first-generation.

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SPORT

Sports teams back in action

By Tara Murray Sport was back in action at the weekend, much to the pleasure of sports-mad Melburnians.

Clubs and players had been left on the sidelines for two weeks due to the state’s fifth COVID-19 lockdown.

Players nervously waited last Tuesday to find out whether the lockdown would end and whether sport would be allowed.

Their prayers were answered, with sport given the go-ahead, and most teams jumped straight back into it.

But it wasn’t all good news for clubs.

Attendance was limited to only those required to participate in and facilitate the activity, with no crowds allowed.

It means bars and canteens are closed, in a financial blow for clubs.

In a statement on its website, the Western Region Football League said it and AFL Victoria recommended that senior clubs and players alike strongly consider reducing, if not forgoing altogether, player payments this weekend.

“While recognising some players will rely on match payments more so than others, the significant impact to the volunteers and the long-term sustainability of the club by a playing group willingly reducing/forgoing player payments this weekend cannot be understated,” the statement said.

“The WRFL strongly encourages all player senior leadership groups to consider what measures they can implement for the long-term benefit of their club.”

Head of AFL Victoria Brad Scott said that AFL Victoria welcomed the announcement that the lockdown would be lifted, from Auskick through to senior club football.

“With 90 leagues across the state, more than 170,000 registered players, tens of thousands of volunteers, umpires and coaches can now get back to their local clubs and participate, which is fantastic for everyone involved in our game,“ he said.

“While it is great that football is back, not having spectators allowed does create challenges and we will continue to work closely with the government and health authorities to advocate for what community football needs, while the health and safety of everyone remains a priority. We urge Victorians to adhere to the government’s rules regarding spectators, which will help ensure we can get crowds back at community football soon.”

The Essendon District Football League has been forced to cut either one or two regular season games from its women’s and men’s competitions following the two-week break.

Only its premier division men’s will have a normal finals series, with all the other finals series reduced by a week.

Football isn’t the only sport back, with basketball, netball and soccer teams also returning to competition. The Big V basketball will extend its regular season by two weeks.

There’s changes to the finals make up, with all finals series now top fours. The Victorian Netball League will return this week, with the City West Falcons hoping to continue its winning run.

Footballers, including Keilor’s Brett Stillman, returned to the field on Saturday. (Damjan Janevski) 243420_04

SPORTS QUIZ 1. Australian Kaylee McKeown won the gold medal in which swimming event?

2. New Zealander Brendon Hartley is the defending champion of which major motorsport event?

3. Which Australian fast bowler took 11 wickets in three ODI matches against the West Indies recently?

4. Which former Richmond premiership player recently made a one-off appearance for Essendon’s VFL side?

5. Who is the head coach of Australia’s national soccer team?

6. Ash Barty crashed out of the Olympic women’s singles competition in which round?

7. Melbourne Park has been the home of the Australian Open tennis tournament since which year?

8. Australian cricket coach Justin Langer scored how many Test centuries in his playing career?

9. What is the nickname of the Australian women’s water polo team?

10. How many grand finals in VFL/AFL history have ended in draws?

11. What name are Russian athletes competing under at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games?

12. Charlie Rowbottom was drafted with the first pick in the 2021 AFLW Draft by what team?

Jess Fox

13. What is the name of the new domestic cricket format launced this year in England?

14. What is the only country to have appeared in every FIFA World Cup to date?

15. What AFL team used to play their home games at Moorabbin Oval?

16. The NBL recently announced a record broadcast deal with what US-based sports network?

17. What medal did Australian canoeist Jess Fox win at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games?

18. How many people in total are on the court in a netball match?

19. Which NRL coach recently signed a fiveyear contract extension with their team?

20. Which Sydney Swans player had a one-match ban overturned in their Round 19 match against Fremantle?

21. Melbourne Storm co-captain Dale Finucane will leave next season to play for which NRL team?

22. Australia’s women’s national softball team is known by what nickname?

23. Which Australian golfer recently won the Evian Championship in a sudden-death playoff?

24. Shannon Hurn will soon notch up over 300 games played with which AFL team?

25. Michael Hooper is the captain of which Australian national team?

26. Australia’s women’s national football team is known by what nickname?

27. Who is Ash Barty’s women’s doubles partner at the Tokyo Olympics?

28. What medal did Australian 400m freestyle swimmer Jack McLoughlin win at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics?

29. Who scored twice for the Matildas in their recent 4-2 loss to Sweden?

30. Owen Wright won a 2020 Tokyo Olympics bronze medal representing Australia in which event?

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1. 100m backstroke 2. Le Mans 24-hour race 3. Mitchell Starc 4. Alex Rance 5. Graham Arnold 6. First round 7. 1988 8. 23 9. The Stingers 10. Three (1948, 1977 and 2010) 11. Russian Olympic Committee 12. Gold Coast Suns 13. The Hundred 14. Brazil 15. St Kilda 6. ESPN 17. Bronze 18. 14 19. Craig Bellamy 20. Lance Franklin 21. Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks 22. Aussie Spirit 23. Minjee Lee 24. West Coast Eagles 25. Rugby Union 26. The Matildas 27. Storm Sanders 28. Silver 29. Sam Kerr 30. Surfing (men’s shortboard) 25 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

Deer Park defies expectations with the finals in sight Deer Park has proven some of its naysayers wrong, with the Western Region Football League division 1 side on track for another finals series.

After seven premierships in a row, many people predicted the Lions would slip back to the pack after a changing of the guard.

But the Lions are currently in a finals position, sitting fourth after 11 rounds.

Lions coach Mark McGoldrick said the high standards that had been set during the premiership run had flowed onto the new group.

“I think we’ve done a terrific job,” he said.

“We’ve got a very young side.

“We’re performing with less [player] points than any other club and we don’t have juniors coming through.

“Last year our reserves finished bottom of the ladder. We haven’t fallen off the mountain.

“The new players have really bought into what we’ve been doing.”

McGoldrick said there were a number of players who had stepped up and taken their

games to the next level, to help fill the void left by those who departed.

He said skipper Spiros Amarantidis was leading the way.

“He’s been around four of five years,” he said.

“Luke Scicchitano is only 19 years old and a new player at the club. Nicolas Aleksovski, is 19, and he was leading our goal kicking at one stage.

“Scott Greenhough has been around but he has shown some growth and stepped up in the role that Chris Stewart long held.”

McGoldrick said at the start of the season the side hadn’t been overly confident in playing finals, but was really happy with the position it was in.

While finals are a bonus this year, McGoldrick said the focus remained on building for the next couple of years.

“Hopefully we’ll get our player points reinstated so we have the same as everyone else,” he said.

“And we still have a lot of improvement in us.”

Speaking before the announcement that play would resume this weekend, McGoldrick said while it was tough this season with the stop-start nature of the season, there were some real positives out of it.

“The season is comprised, with missed games and the draw and it has drawn some angst among some clubs including us.

“The start of the year we knew that it would happen and there was the possibility of missing games.

“We’ll get at least 14 to 15 games this season, after no games last season. I’m a half glass full person and i’m just grateful to have games.

“Everyone just wants to come back and play footy with the boys.”

Tara Murray

Spiros Amarantidis has stood up for the Lions this season. (Shawn Smits)

Duxson faces reality

By Tara Murray Sunshine United cricketer Thomas Duxson thought his mates were playing a joke on him when he got a call to be part of a cricket reality tv show.

Duxson was one of 10 players from across the state who got a chance to impress those at BBL club the Melbourne Renegades, as part of, The Renegades Recruit.

The winner gets the opportunity to travel with the Renegades academy players to the Northern Territory for a pre-season trip, which includes a stop at the NT Strike League.

The show was last week shown on the Renegades social media and streaming service Kayo.

Speaking after the first episode, Duxson said he didn’t think twice about being involved.

Players who had not had a state contract or played senior Victorian Premier Cricket in the past two years could be nominated for the show.

“It was a bit of a surprise,” he said. “There was some sort of application process and an unknown club or person put my name forward.

“It was a bit of a surprise, it was a good call to take. I first thought it was my friends playing a trick on me.

“I never gave it a second thought.”

Duxson and the other nine finalists were put through some fitness and then skills drills by Renegades women’s coach Simon Helmot and rising Victorian stars Jake Fraser-McGurk, Mackenzie Harvey and Will Sutherland.

Six players progressed through to the second round after the first episode, with the winner then picked from those players.

Duxson was one of the first players eliminated.

He said it was disappointing not to progress further.

“There were about 10 of us and I was among some really good cricketers,” he said.

“I was one of the first ones cut, which was a big disappointment.

“I obviously struggled with a few things. The cricket side I thought I held my own and was up there with the other guys who got through.

“I was missing a few aspects though. It was a really good day regardless.”

Duxson said it was pretty surreal watching the footage from the first episode.

“It’s not every day you see yourself on Kayo, where the cricket and footy are streamed.

“That’s a different kettle of fish. It was pretty cool.”

Thomas Duxson was centre stage as part of a new cricket reality TV show. (Luke Hemer) 202949_13

The 23-year-old said the experience showed him that you don’t know what is going to happen in the sport. He said he wouldn’t rule out trying to play at a higher level again.

“I played district cricket when I was younger,” he said. “I wasn’t enjoying it so I

26 BRIMBANK & NORTHWEST STAR WEEKLY Tuesday, 3 August, 2021

moved to Sunshine United.

“Both my brothers were playing there. I’m only 23, so there is plenty of time to give it a go at a higher level if I want.”

The winner was set to announced on Thursday night.

Hatzoglou snares deal with Scorchers The stunning rise of former Sunshine Heights bowler Peter Hatzoglou has continued as he joins Big Bash League (BBL) side the Perth Scorchers.

The 22-year-old was one of the surprise packets of last season’s competition, rising from a replacement player to one of the spinners of the tournament with the Melbourne Renegades.

He took 17 wickets in 13 games, while also becoming a fan favourite.

Hatzoglou has signed a two year contract with the Scorchers, who have been one of the competitions’ standout sides.

He replaces former Australian spinner Fawad Ahmed at the Scorchers.

The pair played together at Melbourne University, with Hatzoglou previously crediting Ahmed for some of his development.

Scorchers coach Adam Voges said he was thrilled to have Hatzoglou join the team for the summer ahead.

“Peter quickly became a crowd favourite in the Big Bash last year and I’m sure the Scorchers members and fans will love watching him,” he said.

“He gives us the flexibility to bowl spin at different times throughout the innings and will combine with Ash Agar to make a strong spin duo.

“Peter is a long-term option for us, which means sadly we say goodbye to Fawad who’s been a huge asset to our team over the past two seasons.”

The signing with Perth caps off a stunning rise for Hatzoglou. In 2017 he was playing for Sunshine Heights in division 3 in the Victorian Turf Cricket Association.

He had played just 10 first XI Victorian Premier Cricket games when he made his BBL debut.

He would also make his state debut earlier this year, playing for South Australia in the one-day Marsh Cup. He and his younger brother Max made the move to South Australia last year when the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the Victorian cricket season.

Tara Murray

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